Pensacola Magazine, January 2020

PENSACON SWINGS IN TO ITS 7TH YEAR

Trust the

Process Breaking down the Artist's methods

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Editor’s Note Art is wild. I’ve always wished that I had some innate talent for the visual arts—I picture myself painting masterpieces in some funky mountaintop studio and living the eclectic life of an artist. Beyond the fact that I have no talent, the other problem with that fantasy is that most artists don’t live a life of peaceful creativity in a stunningly beautiful setting. No, most of them are too busy with the process of concept and creation—and that pesky little thing called “making a living.” Still, although I am not a visual artist, I certainly appreciate it and the magic it can work on the open-minded viewer.

So, while I was very excited about our concept to capture the processes of four local artists, when we actually set out to accomplish these tasks, I have to admit, I had lousy mornings each and every day. For one reason or another, my days just didn’t start out right, and it left me exhausted and frustrated and definitely not wanting to go spend hours asking in depth questions of strangers. The funny thing is, this project was transformative for me in ways both big and small. Each day, as I unpacked my recorder and started following the artist around their studio or shop, the cares of the morning slipped away. I found myself fascinated by and immersed in their work and their process. It took me away from myself and into the creative realm just by watching the process. So in a relatively small way, their art released me from the troubles of my daily life for a period of time. That alone is pretty powerful. But those sessions also got me thinking more about creativity in general and how I can be more creative with the things I am good at and also about how I need to dabble more—just try creative stuff for the fun of it. I have a lot of ideas, but I don’t make the

time for it. It’s a good thing we are coming up on a new year and a new decade—what better time is there to carve out a little time for a creative life?

So, thank you to all of our featured artists—Kreg Yingst, Joe Hobbs, Wayne Meligan and Anne Taylor Duease—for agreeing to let us into your studios and your process. And, thank you all for distracting me from my daily frustrations and inspiring my own creative soul. Each of you creates beautiful and fascinating work—crafted with passion, love, thoughtfulness, soul and creativity. What a lucky community we are to have you all.

As for you, dear readers, consider following my lead and making art a major part of your new decade. Whether you make it or admire it, it’s sure to bring you some interesting thoughts, a new perspective or a simple escape from the daily grind.

Happy New Decade, everyone!

Kelly Oden Executive Editor

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Contents FUNDRAISING FOR FURBABIES 16 Two upcoming fundraisers for the Pensacola Humane Society offer cocktails for a cause.

30A SONGWRITERS BRING THE BEAT TO THE BEACH 18 John Prine, Brian Wilson, Peter Noone and more headline the 30A Songwriters Festival.

PENSACON SWINGS IN TO ITS 7TH YEAR 21 Pensacola's world renown sci-fi convention returns.

18

21

MOUNTAIN TOWN MEETS BEACH TOWN 24 A new film festival comes to Pensacola.

BEAR WALKER: TURNING � POP CULTURE 360 26 Alabama skateboard artist makes some killer boards.

TRUST THE PROCESS 30 Inside the studio and the creative process with four local artists.

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IN EVERY ISSUE Editor’s Letter 6 Page 10 10 Pensacola Seen 14 Play/Live/Give 49

SPECIAL SECTIONS Business Climate On the Market

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ON THE COVER:

Joe Hobbs at work in the FCAC Glass Studio photo by Guy Stevens

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PAGE 10 with DeeDee Davis

F

ootball season has to be the quickest season of the year. I guess fans just get so hyped up in anticipation of kickoff, that the weeks just fly. If your team starts off great, life is so good. You proudly put the stickers and flags on your car and pray for continued wins.

On the other hand, if you team loses early on, you know there is still a chance if they can knockoff someone highly ranked. I am a bit biased about my alma mater Auburn, but I have good friends and acquaintances who went to other schools and, admittedly, feel as strongly about college football as I do. In my office alone, we have most of the SEC represented. When Auburn won the national championship a few years ago, I taped every newspaper article to my door and left them there until they turned yellow and disintegrated. Every year I hear the comments recapping the season and this year was one of the best for bragging and also for whining. If any of the comments below hit too close to home, well, just remember this is writer’s prerogative.

Disclaimer: this is being written before the national playoff and the bowl games.

Auburn: we all suffered over the three losses because each loss was to a rated team and was by such a close score. Coach Gus Malzahn was on the hot seat because everyone knows, we don’t like to lose in Auburn. Then, the miracle. We beat the ever- loving daylights out of Alabama and all was good again. Okay, maybe we didn’t exactly thrash them, but the win felt like we did. Nothing gives an Auburn fan joy the way spoiling Alabama’s season does.

I have watched replays from the game approximately 7000 times and plan to watch even more.

University of Florida: They haven’t had much to cheer about in a while. Things had gotten so bad for the gators that a member of the alumni club started bringing a pet hedgehog to the watch parties so that there would be something interesting going on. This year was different. Gators

10 Pensacola Magazine

where your allegiance lies. The bayou is rocking with anticipation for the playoffs and I hope when this hits newsstands, their season is still perfect.

won 10 games and ALMOST made it to the playoffs. Georgia was their spoiler.

The rivalry is already intense, so gators are already making plans for revenge next year.

They also take the game seriously as their starting quarterback had a rocky start this year. Fans actually weren’t disappointed when he got injured three games in and the replacement became a star. No one is happy to see someone hurt, but, hey, this is war.

University of Georgia: Georgia started off highly ranked until LSU humiliated them.

A group of fans that shall remain nameless said they were so confident before going into that game that they planned to make a real celebration of it while watching.

They organized a big drinking contest that basically required them to take a shot each time the bulldogs did something awesome.

They were all sober and miserable after the game.

LSU: What a season! I hated losing to them because I hate it when my team loses to anyone, but LSU is the real deal.

First, they have an amazing, authentically unique head coach in Ed Orgeron. I heard a commentator say that if gumbo could talk, it would sound like Ed Orgeron and that about says it all. Then they had a Cinderella story quarterback that transferred to LSU because no one else thought he was good enough to get play time. Joe Burrow went on to win the Heisman trophy by the biggest landslide vote in the history of the award. The guy is magical to watch, and you can’t help but cheer him on, despite

Florida State University: Oh my. For a school that has the pride and tradition that this one does, this may have been as miserable as it gets. Even FSU fans quit making excuses for the debacle on the field every week. I mean, they beat Louisiana Monroe by 1 and that was in overtime.

Louisiana Monroe lost by 72 the next week. Do you know how bad it must be for the alumni to take up a collection at a party to pay millions to fire the coach and pay his buyout? This is a school where little tomahawk decals are handed out to the players to put on their helmets for exceptional performance on the field and I am pretty sure the helmets had no artwork added this year. Things are looking up for them as they made a great hire for a new coach. Maybe their fans can finally stop watching 2013 highlights.

University of Alabama: I hate to sound totally euphoric about Auburn’s win, but let’s face it. Alabama wins so much, that most of us get sick of hearing about it. This year they added LED lights and a deafening elephant roar to their stadium to add to the intimidation factor, so when LSU came to town and beat them at home, well, good for LSU. Just one more reason why Joe Burrow really deserved the Heisman. Staying cool, calm, and collected as quarterback in that setting was reason enough for the trophy.

Alabama fans keep talking about their losses being such close scores as if that somehow negates the defeat. Welcome to reality.

There is nothing like being a fan, though it certainly brings out the good, the bad, and the ugly. And for all of us who won’t be in the national championship playoffs, the season starts in eight months. War Eagle!

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Fundraising for Furbabies

by Gina Castro It all started in a tiny shelter with just one employee. The Pensacola Humane Society (PHS) has grown a lot since 1943, but the mission has always been the same: to improve the lives of companion animals in our community through advocacy, adoption, education and sanctuary. In 1985, the humane society became a no-kill facility. Over the decades, the PHS has been able to provide food, shelter, medical care and love to the dogs and cats in the Pensacola community, which Executive Director Jennifer Bitner said is a direct benefit to giving to your local humane society.

“I hear a lot of folks say ‘I give to the ASPCA’ or ‘I give to the humane society of the U.S.’ That doesn’t directly benefit Pensacola,” Bitner said. “The thing about us is that 100 percent

of the donations go to us serving the community, so everything we raise through events, stays local to support our programs, the animals, adoptions, running the facility and medical care.”

PHS has two upcoming events that benefit its mission for the animals in the area. Originally, the humane society hosted only one major fundraising event, but the Fur Ball, an event in March, sold out in October in only its first year. So, Bitner and her team decided to not only host another Fur Ball on March, 28, 2020 but also to host another fundraiser. And so the Fat Cat Social was created.

“Last year, the Fur Ball was a complete sold out success, and the event didn’t take place until February 1st. We sold out in October,” Bitner said. “We had a lot of folks asking to attend, but it also made me consider something that’s not black tie and a little less in ticket prices than the Fur Ball is. We did the Fat Cat Social last year as a thank you sponsor party, but now, we turned it into something that everyone can attend. It was really by demand.”

16 Pensacola Magazine

The Fat Cat Social is a cocktail casual event at Skopelos on Jan. 23, 2020.

There will be a live performance by the Six Piece Suits, specialty cocktails and a silent auction. Bitner said that one of the motivations for putting this event together is for it to be less formal and more affordable. The ticket price is $50, but the ticket includes food and entertainment. You can also enter for a chance to win a 1971 VW Beetle for $20 a ticket or $100 for six tickets.

Bitner isn’t sure how the humane society will be incorporating the animals into this event, but she said that she is hoping to show off some puppies that will be right at eight weeks old and some kittens as well. However, guests will not be able to adopt any of the animals during the event.

“We don’t do adoptions at events like this. We try to stay away from situations where people are going to be drinking,” Bitner said. “We did do quite a few adoptions after the Fur Ball last year because people fell in love with the animals at the event. So they came down the next day and did adoptions.

We definitely will be highlighting our adoptable pets that night, but adoptions will need to be done over the weekend.”

The humane society will also be announcing the king and queen from their own Mardi Gras Krewe, which they call The Krewe of Paws. The Krewe of Paws is a branch of PHS whose mission is to build awareness for the agency through camaraderie and a mutual love of animals.

Annual membership dues are $150 for adults and $25 for children under 18 with a paying parent/guardian. Membership includes entry into parades, a T-shirt, a branded bead, a bandana and invitations to PHS social and volunteer events.

The Fur Ball is a black tie event at the Pensacola Yacht Club. Bitner said that it’s too early for her to have all of the details of the event planned, but she said you can definitely count on another round of the adorable

Puppy Parade, which features PHS’s adoptable pets in various outfits. The event will also feature a new video highlighting PHS’s programs, dinner and photo booths. For ticket prices, go to www.pensacolahumane.org.

Even though some details for the Fur Ball haven’t been laid out yet, Bitner said half of the tables for the event were already sold in December.

“It’s incredible. I think it’s because the Fur Ball is very different from everything that we do,” Bitner said. “It is, to my knowledge, the only black tie gala event that supports the animals in our community. I think it’s unique in that way. I think that’s one of the reasons the event has done so well. They like to come out for the black tie evening, get

dressed up socialize, network and be a part of a local animal welfare organization.”

For more details about either events or to purchase tickets or to donate, go to www. pensacolahumane.org.

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30A Songwriters Bring the Beat to the Beach

by Kelly Oden

Home to sugar-white sand beaches and some very rare coastal dune lakes, Highway 30A is also a unique blend of planned communities that stretch for more than 28 miles along the Gulf of Mexico’s coastline in Northwest Florida’s Walton County. From the funky, original, Grayton Beach to the old world Mayberry feel of Rosemary Beach, the highway’s small towns are an eclectic mix of Caribbean colors, European style and southern charm.

From Jan. 17-20, 2020, 30A is also home to one of the finest songwriter festivals in the country. Produced by The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, Inc. (CAA), the 30A Songwriters festival features 30 venues presenting over 200 songwriters and 250 solo, band and in-the-round performances throughout the weekend.

Held in a variety of unique venues along scenic Highway 30-A, the Songwriters Festival transforms amphitheaters, town halls, restaurants, theaters, bars and covered patios into unique music venues ranging in capacity from 75 to 500 seats indoors and 5,000 outdoors.

Among the stellar songwriters who will headline the 2020 festival are Brian Wilson, John Prine, Indigo Girls, Tanya Tucker, Don McLean and Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone.

Also confirmed for premier performances are Dan Wilson (Semisonic), Peter Yarrow (Peter, Paul and Mary), Mindy Smith, Todd Snider, Elizabeth Cook, Birds of

Chicago, Sierra Hull, James McMurtry, Carlene Carter, Shawn Mullins, Nikki Lane, Matthew Sweet, Mary Gauthier, Chastity Brown, Hayes Carll, Gretchen Peters, Will Hoge, Marc Broussard, Sarah Lee Guthrie, Darrell Scott, Chely Wright, Over the Rhine, Jeffrey Steele, Pat McGee Band, Amy LaVere, Livingston Taylor, Paul Thorn, John Fullbright, Steve Poltz, The Secret Sisters, Robyn Hitchcock, Miles Zuniga & Tony Scalzo (Fastball), Ken Block & Drew Copeland (Sister Hazel), Aaron Lee Tasjan, Lindsay Lou, Radney Foster, Bob Schneider, Allison Moorer, David Ryan Harris (John Mayer band), Dan Bern, Cory Chisel & Adriel Denae, Amy Ray (solo), Emily Saliers (solo), Robert Ellis, Jonny Fritz, The Honey Dewdrops, Grant-Lee Phillips, Griffin House, Peter Holsapple (The dB's), Chris Stamey (the dB's), Chris Stills, Amy Rigby, Abe Partridge, Liz Brasher and AJ Ghent.

Co-producers Russell Carter and Jennifer Steele are thrilled with this year’s lineup.

“Let me summarize what the 2020 30A Songwriters Festival is all about," stated Russell Carter, President of RCAM and festival co-producer. "It's about great songs—‘God Only Knows,’ ‘American Pie,’ ‘Closer To Fine,’ ‘Angel From Montgomery,’ ‘Delta Dawn,’ ‘Puff the Magic Dragon,’ ‘Good Vibrations,’ ‘Closing Time’—just to touch the surface.

There is a calm along 30A early in the third week of January, a typically quiet time in the resort town. By the week’s end, an explosion of music, food, wine and spirits combine to create an indescribable, sustained vibe as 200 musicians gather to perform for the multitude of fans throughout the weekend.”

“The 30A Songwriters Festival is a beloved and anticipated tradition for locals and visitors to South Walton and a major source of funding for the Cultural Arts Alliance,” said CAA Executive

Headliners

BRIAN WILSON 18 Pensacola Magazine

JOHN PRINE

DON MCLEAN

PETER NOONE

Director and Festival Co-Producer Jennifer Steele. “The Festival fulfills the CAA’s vision for creative placemaking, establishing the area as a home for rich and rewarding cultural entertainment and experiences. We are so proud to be able to bring it to life each year and grateful the event allows us to fulfill our mission to advance the arts in our community.”

The CAA is the officially designated local arts agency that serves as an umbrella organization and supports the arts through leadership, advocacy, funding, programs and education.

“The 30A Songwriters Festival is a unique cultural event like no other in this area. The Festival brings together nearly every South Walton community and many businesses to showcase our home as a destination not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its musical and creative excellence, which is the purpose of the CAA,” says Jennifer Steele, the Executive Director and Festival Co-Producer. “The Festival is critical to the mission of the CAA and by far our biggest fundraiser. One hundred percent of the Festival's net proceeds go back into our non-profit and enable the CAA to continue to be a champion for the arts in Walton County.”

The 30A Songwriters Festival has again teamed up with many non-profit organizations as sponsors. Returning in 2020 will be the ASCAP Showcase at the Lake House in WaterColor, Folk Alley producing its Folk Alley Sessions at 30A for its nationally syndicated Folk Alley Radio Show. The Oxford American showcase will feature artists exclusively from the state that will be featured in its annual fall music issue. The Americana Fest returns to stage Americana artists for whom both the 30A Songwriters Festival and the AMA share a fondness and commitment. This year we introduce the Grocery On Home showcase stage curated by Matt Arnett, known throughout the music community as one of the more prominent producers of house parties.

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The colors of dawn. textures, shapes shapes and The textures, images emerge asthat a and thatimages newemerge day begins make as a new day morning work morning of art. beginsa make Thisa also up the workmakes of art. This also makes upyou’ll the works works of art find atof art you’ll find at Blue Blue Morning Gallery.

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N O C A S N E P GS IIN O N S NTTO SSW WIING R A E R Y A E H Y T 7 H T IITTSS 7 d that means you an , ar ye w ne a lly ia It’s offic “see you next year” no longer have to hear so s and coworkers—it al jokes from your friend al time for the 7th annu t os m al s it’ at th ns ea m Con. The convention ic m Co a ol ac ns Pe : on Pensac ch 1. - by Dakota Parks ar M to 28 b.

Fe om fr will be held

Conventions have a tireless history spanning back to the early 1940s. They’re a place for fans of films, television shows, comic books, actors and genre-lovers like science fiction, horror, anime, etc. to gather in one giant convention center to celebrate. Planning, scheduling and orchestrating the constantly growing Pensacon is no easy feat though. Did you know that planning for the following Pensacon starts before this year’s convention is even over? That’s right—plans for Pensacon 2021 are already in the works.

The Marketing and Media Director of Pensacon Julio Diaz explained just how large Pensacon has grown over the last seven years: “Our direct economic impact in 2019 was 3.7

million dollars, according to surveys by Majority Opinion Research that Pensacola commissions every year. Our combined economic impact over the last six years to date is over 16 million dollars. In 2019 alone, 33,000 people attended Pensacon.”

With 50+ vendors and guest stars from Star Wars, The Walking Dead, The Mandalorian, Lord of the Rings, Legends of Tomorrow, Tank Girl, Stranger Things and so many more, Pensacon 2020 has a little of something for everyone.

Pensacon was originally held in the Pensacola Bay Center and the Grand Hotel. Now, the footprint has expanded to the Saenger Theatre the Rex Theatre, and the Pensacola Little Theatre. The parking lot behind the Bay Center is also being utilized for outdoor demonstrations. Nicknamed “Poseidon’s Bay,” the lot will host car shows, photo shoots, light saber demonstrations, science activities and more.

With a limited capacity of 12,000 people inside the Bay Center, Pensacon is constantly looking for somewhere new to expand. This year, Pensacon is expanding into historic Pensacola through a partnership with the UWF Historic Trust. Museum Plaza behind the T.T. Wentworth Museum will host an 80s party/

concert on Friday night and a first-ever public costume contest on Saturday night.

Other buildings owned and operated by the historic district will host panels and sessions during Pensacon.

“We’re continually looking every year for somewhere new that we can expand to keep growing. Even a few more buildings just to offer more things for the community to do. If we wanted to get more bodies in the door, we would need a larger venue to host vendors, guest stars and attendees. We would love for a convention center or a multi-use center to be built that can hold a higher capacity of people. It would allow us to expand,” said Diaz.

One expansion to the footprint is hosting the Pensacon Short Film Festival in the Voices of Pensacola building, a historic

Pensacola Magazine

21

metal detectors at every door, bag restrictions, and costume weapons are to be thoroughly checked over in the weapons check area. The Pensacon Safe Environment Policy ensures that Pensacon is free from verbal, physical, or electronic violence, hate speech, sexual harassment and unsafe behaviors.

trust owned facility. The short film festival was founded in the second year of Pensacon. The films are premiered on Saturday and Sunday with awards following the end of the festival.

Judges have received over 70 short film entries. The films celebrate science fiction, horror, fantasy, comic books, superhero, pop culture, animation and

documentaries—really any genre films falling under the Pensacon fan umbrella.

Safety is always a big concern when it comes to comic conventions. Pensacon works side by side with the security company that manages the Bay Center in addition to their own security team. There are

“We want to make sure we’re offering everyone a safe experience. As far as other safety concerns, like sexual harassment, we have a zerotolerance policy. Whether it’s a vendor or a guest at Pensacon, they will be banned from the convention and never allowed back. We do have safe spaces throughout the convention. If anyone feels like they’re being harassed or threatened, they can come to these spaces and know

that they will be protected,” explained Diaz.

With an outflux of patrons, visiting guests, celebrities and media personnel, Pensacon is one busy weekend for Pensacola.

There are more people downtown, shopping, eating, walking around and partaking in the nightlife.

“My favorite part about Pensacon is just seeing everyone out and about enjoying themselves. It’s a great weekend for the community. Even if you’re not someone that enjoys some of the fandoms, events, and guests of the convention, it’s still a wonderful time to come downtown and people watch and just walk around,” said Diaz.

Q+A WITH

JAKE BUSEY Every year, we have the pleasure at Pensacola Magazine of interviewing some of Pensacon’s premiere guest stars. To really get our readers amped for Pensacon, we thought we’d share an interview early with Hollywood actor, Jake Busey. Known far and wide for his roles in Starship Troopers and Frighteners, Busey got his start in the world of acting at age five on set with his father, Gary Busey in the 1978 film Straight Time. The younger crowds, however, probably recognize Busey for his most recent role in the Netflix Original series, Stranger Things. Busey premiered as the cast newbie in 2019 in season three, but quickly 22 Pensacola Magazine

received an Internet outlash as the public reacted to his character, Bruce, a wise-crack journalist for The Hawkins Post known for giving women in the office a hard time, especially Nancy Wheeler.

Hi, Jake. Thanks for agreeing to do an interview with us!

Oh sure. Thank you for thinking of me. I appreciate the opportunity.

You starred in your first film with your father as a young child, correct? Did you always want to get into acting?

I was actually five in that first movie. It was with my father, Gary Busey, Dustin Hoffman and Kathy Bates for the film Straight Time. The film was about

Dustin Hoffman’s character Max Dembo, the jewelry thief getting out of jail and in the very 1970s vigilante way, cruising around town getting vengeance. My father’s character was the failed get-away driver that got busted.

So, Max Dembo’s first stop out of jail is to basically go over and take out my dad’s character. So, the directors wanted to make my dad’s character more sympathetic so that the audience would feel a little more bummed out, so they gave him a wife and a kid—that's where I come in. Kathy Bates played the mother, and I played the child of the get-away driver. It was a great experience. But then my parents thought it was best not to subject me to the rigorous life of the entertainment industry.

So, they steered me away from that as a kid.

As you got older though, is acting something you wanted to pursue again? Or was it just something your father happened to influence?

A little bit of both really. I spent my childhood on film sets.

When I was about 17, I went off to college. My plan was that I was going to be a studio session drummer—the guys that get called in to do pop songs for young girls that are coming up through the ranks. But by then, it was the late 80s, and the drum machine had really exploded. I realized, while I was in college, that there really wasn’t a future in being a session drummer

because it’s so cheap and easy to use a drum machine. Then, on a whim, I took an acting class in college. And really, I took the class for an easy credit, so that I could have something easier to do than chemistry. I wound up really taking to it and really liking it. I think it was a way for me to experience what I had seen so many people doing on set but to experience it in a nonconsequential environment. I realized, “hey this is pretty fun,” so I moved back to Los Angeles to study acting. I spent a good number of years auditioning before I ever got a role because I was a really awkward, tall, skinny and excruciatingly pale looking like Edgar Winter. I was reading for all of these movies that wound up casting these brunette, regular looking guys, like Ethan Hawke. I was upset asking myself “why didn’t they hire me,” but then I would look at the movie later and say, “oh I would have stuck out like a sore thumb!” I’ve had to deal with that for my entire year—thirty years now. I’ve always had a very specific, unique look that doesn’t always fit into roles. It’s been a blessing and a curse.

Did your father influence any of your acting when you went to school?

My father just motivated me to keep going. When I first started going to acting classes, I would share breakthroughs with him.

I would tell him, “guess what I learned today, Dad.” But, rather than him saying, “hey that’s great—good for you,” he would retort with “well you know, back in the day, when I studied with James Best, we used to do this and this.” He made it into kind of a pissing match. So, I ultimately went and studied with James Best, and the guys he studied with so that now I can agree with him and confirm his retorts.

What movie or show do fans recognize you the most for?

Starship Troopers and The Frighteners. Those are like a set of twins; usually they come out in the same breath together: “Hey I loved you in Starship Troopers and The Frighteners!” Interestingly enough, those movies were released back to back, so I guess I was just really doing something right in 1996.

Well, for the younger crowds that know you from your role in Stranger Things, what has that experience been like for you—working with such a young cast?

Oh, it was great. It was the kind of the thing I wanted to do for a long time—to get to work with people that are young and a part of the pop culture fabric. That’s something that actors always want to do, especially when they first start out. We all want to be in that project that everyone is talking about; the project that’s really shaping culture and fans.

Stranger Things was like hoping on a train going a 100 miles an hour. It was established and already very popular, and that’s not something that many people get to experience. It’s rare to experience being on a show that’s that phenomenally successful, but it’s also rare to just hop on midstream in season three.

Especially, because I was already a fan of the show. I was thinking to myself, “man I would love to be a part of that show, but it’s already up and running.” To be brought on as a new character was very exciting.

Your character, Bruce was certainly a memorable character at that. You kind of played the role as almost a villain.

Yeah, I did and I didn’t even realize it at the time. The role was more of a wisecracking dude that was maybe a little bit of a class clown making fun of people. But, in the way they put

Busey as Bruce in Stranger Things, 2019. Photo courtesy of Netflix

the show together and edited it with the music and scenes, it really made my character guy this awful villainous person—it was brilliant of them to do that.

They never told me to act like this hateful guy that nobody can stand, they just said, “you’re this guy with a twisted sense of humor.” And, then to have the reactions we received on Twitter!

People tweeting: “Oh my God, we must kill Jake Busey!” It was crazy! But then again, that’s what acting is. You’re just playing a character and serving the story, and that was fantastic.

You’ve played in quite the array of roles from villains to teachers to FBI agents—what is your favorite type of role to play?

I like comedies. I like being goofy.

I like being silly. I’ve done some work on some sitcoms and some comedy films, and those are really my favorite.

Speaking of comedies, our art director here at Pensacola Magazine actually shared one of your sitcoms with me from the 90s: Shasta McNasty. Do you ever go back and watch those shows and movies?

You know, I haven’t, only because that’s a show that doesn’t have any

real access. It’s only on VHS. The show premiered before digital, so it kind of got lost. I have some old tapes in boxes, but I don’t even have a VHS player anymore.

Shasta McNasty was just guys being wacky and doing anything they could not to work, but still pay the rent. So, yeah, that was a fun show. I would say that those years were some of the best years of my career.

What would you say your biggest career highlight would be, or perhaps just a memorable moment in your career?

I’ve had a lot. Meeting some of the people I never thought I would meet in my life. I would say, oy, the year of doing Starship Troopers was very impactful on my career. It was an ensemble of a cast and a really rigorous shoot. Shooting Shasta McNasty and being nominated a People’s Choice Award for that was really exciting. Getting to go to awards show and do the whole tuxedo thing was fun. Meeting Jimmy Stewart on the MGM grand 737 airplane back in the 90s was incredible. He was in like a fullwhite tuxedo and a cowboy hat.

Lots of very memorable moments over my career.

Pensacola Magazine

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MOUNTAIN TOWN MEETS BEACH TOWN TELLURIDE FILM FESTIVAL COMING TO DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA

BY DAKOTA PARKS

RESHLY popped popcorn, a cool, crisp evening and a big white screen are perhaps the three best ingredients to a film festival—even if we happen to get more humid than crisp nights here in Pensacola. Currently, Pensacola is home to two reoccurring film festivals: the Stamped LGBT Film Fest and the Pensacon Short Film Festival. One surrounding the identities, lives, and issues of those within the LGBT community and the other celebrating all that is enveloped within the Pensacon comic convention.

On February 21, a third film festival is coming to Pensacola: Mountainfilm.

Mountainfilm originated in Telluride, Colorado in 1979. The festival showcases nonfiction films and shorts about environmental, cultural, political and social justice issues. While the festival was originally held in only Telluride,

Mountainfilm began touring the globe in 2000 to spread their films to a larger audience and educate the public on pressing issues.

Telluride. After experiencing the festival first-hand, she decided that not only would it become a family tradition to attend the festival, but that she also had to work on bringing the festival to Pensacola.

Jacey J. Cosentino, Financial Advisor for The Radcliff-Schatzman Group at Morgan Stanley is one of the directors for the Pensacola Mountainfilm event. The Radcliff-Schatzman Group is sponsoring to bring Mountainfilm to Pensacola.

Cosentino focuses on sustainable, environmental and social governance focused investments. She is also a self-proclaimed “filmPicture anthropist” with a passion for film and giving back to Palafox the community.

“Telluride is a small town, so they block off most of it for the festival. Picture Palafox Street stretching from Main to Garden just covered with people there to watch these environmentally conscious films—walking or biking to get around. Some of the venues are in smaller theaters, similar to our Saenger or Pensacola Little Theatre.

Most people stay up in the mountains and ride the gondola down the mountain Street to the festival. It's a trip that stretching you don't leave from feeling from Main to rested or rejuvenated—you leave wanting to do so Garden just much more than you’re covered with currently doing,” explained Cosentino. people there

“

“The main objective is philanthropy. 100 percent of the proceeds from the festival go to charity. Our selected organization is Healthy Gulf, so we’re trying to select a few films that reflect their work in protecting and preserving our waterways,” said Cosentino.

Cosentino’s first experience with Mountainfilm came from a family trip to

to watch these environmentally conscious films—walking or biking to get around.”

Environmental and social activism are pillars for the film festival. The films can range from minutelong shorts to 90-minute matinees. The screen might open on a picturesque mountain view or a surfer gliding across waves, but the

bigger picture is aimed at protecting and preserving those mountains and waterways for future generations.

“The directors of these films work tirelessly to bring them to the masses, and they’re just beautiful. They’re not like the standard documentaries you see on TV. Sometimes it takes them years to work on them, immersing themselves in communities and staying put in one concentrated area for years to really document an issue. I think the visualization is what drives these issues home for people. I know that when I went to Mountainfilm Festival, I went into it thinking I knew so much about all of the issues on our planet, and I just didn’t.”

The films shown at Mountainfilm are curated works of art that promote sustainability and education. They also promote cultural exchange and learning about the issues affecting other people around the world.

“I think that we’re in a day and age, not only globally and nationally but locally here in Pensacola, that we need to be exposed to the larger picture—the bigger view of what’s happening in our world because it’s affecting everybody. It’s all of our duties to attend events like this and educate ourselves to better relate to the problems and people in the world,” said Cosentino.

The one-night only premiere of Mountainfilm will be hosted at the Museum of Commerce downtown Pensacola on Feb. 21 from 7 pm to around 9 pm, with doors opening at 6pm. End of the Line Café will be catering food and general admission tickets will cost $15. Come out for a night of cinematic adventure and learn a thing or two in the process.

Jacey Cosentino is a Financial Advisor with the Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Pensacola. The information contained in this interview is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice.

The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, or its affiliates. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC2874104 12/19

BEAR WALKER

Turning pop culture 360

BY GINA CASTRO

What started out as a project for his senior year at Clemson University quickly developed into a passion and then a business.

Bear Walker is a premium skateboard designer based out of Daphne, AL. Walker’s boards have been widely accepted in the realm of pop culture.

Walker has partnered with Legendary Television to create a limited edition collector’s board for the company's Netflix series Lost in Space. Among some of his fans are DC Comics’ Aquaman Jason Momoa and The Flash’s Grant Gustin.

Walker grew up surfing in South Carolina, but once he started college, he wasn’t near an ocean anymore. So, he started skateboarding. Walker designed his first skateboard as his final project for his graphic design degree in 2011.

He said he enjoyed the process but didn’t think anything more of the project until he started working at a company that made high-end wooden signs.

“After working for a sign company for a few years, the idea kinda clicked to carve artwork out of the top of boards to create grip,” Walker said. “I made one for myself, and people started asking where I got it, so I moved from there.”

But that wasn’t Walker’s first time working with a wood medium. He spent years with his dad building custom 26 Pensacola Magazine

homes. After receiving praise for his first few boards, Walker decided to start his first skateboard shop in Charleston, SC. The business unfortunately failed.

Walker said that his first business failed because he wasn’t creating what he is passionate about.

“Back then, I was trying to do this whole surfing and beach vibe kind of thing,” Walker said. “I thought it was what I wanted to create, but I wasn't even going with my passion, which is pop culture.”

So, Walker started from scratch. He moved from Charleston to Daphne, where his parents are originally from.

His parents moved back to Daphne when Walker went to college. From there, Walker saved up money, harnessed

his craft and discovered his passion for pop culture. In 2016, he started the skateboard shop he is known for today.

Walker’s process for designing the boards has evolved over the years, especially his process for creating the texture of the top layer of the board. Walker said that developing the texture was the most difficult aspect. The texture is important because it gives the skateboarder grip.

“The texture started out as basic line art, but now it's kind of evolved into this background texture I created,” Walker said. “I also use it as an intricate focal point somewhere on the board for when the design has a lot of details like a portrait or a character.”

“The texture started out as basic line art, but now it's kind of evolved into this background texture I created,” Walker said. “I also use it as an intricate focal point somewhere on the board for when the design has a lot of details like a portrait or character."

Walker said that the process for making his designs come to life really depends on the board. If the board design he has in mind calls for a “hand drawn feel,” he will sketch the design on paper, scan the sketch and then program the design to come out of his machine. His other route is rooted in his graphic design background, so he will draw his design on Illustrator and then program the design into his machine. Once the product comes out of the machine, Walker spends a couple of hours cutting and sanding the board and then airbrushes the board by hand. This tedious process can take anywhere between 2 to 30 hours.

It all depends on if the board is one of his mass production boards, which takes about 2 to 3 hours to make, or a custom designed board, which is about 20 to 30 hours of work.

mass production boards, Walker enjoys the process more. You can order custom boards on his website bearwalker.com.

“It's definitely more difficult than mass production, but it's definitely where innovation comes from,” Walker said. “New ideas spark from trying to create someone else's vision. I actually make way less money making custom boards than I do making mass production boards, but it keeps it interesting, and it’s where my next line of mass production comes from.”

The majority of Walker’s designs are inspired by pop culture, such as Marvel’s Iron Man, Rick and Morty and the horror flick It. So, naturally, he has partnered with artists and actors within pop culture. One of his favorite collaborations was creating a line of boards with Zachary Levi, the actor who plays Shazam.

“One of my favorite things we do is collaborate with different artists and companies constantly,” Walker said.

“Collaborating is like another realm where I can innovate. A lot of the times, the artist I’m working with think about something I’ve never thought of doing because I know the process. Someone who doesn’t know the process will think of something, and I'll go ‘Oh, wow. I hadn’t thought about trying that before.’

It helps me create new ideas.”

Walker will be opening his second custom board skate shop in LA in 2020 and then, eventually, open up more locations around the world. He also plans to implement more environmentally friendly aspects into his business. As of now, each skateboard purchased plants two trees. Walker plants a single tree and his packager plants the second tree. Walker also uses all of the saw dust waste to help grow local food.

He plans to use the compost from that to grow more gardens in the future. For more information about Bear Walker, go to bearwalker.com or follow him on social media @BearWalkerOfficial.

•

Although creating custom boards is more challenging and costly than designing Pensacola Magazine

27

PENS ACO L A M AG A ZIN E

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Tr u st t he

s s e c o r P

by Kelly Oden Photos by Guy Stevens + Bara'ah Jaraiseh

“You are an explorer. You understand that every time you go into the studio, you are after something that does not yet exist.”

– Anna Deavere Smith, Letters to a Young Artist

For many artists, inspiration begins with a spark, an idea, a vision—and although they may have a fairly clear sense of what they’d like to create, that sense can, and often does, change during the process of creation.

Perhaps that is one of the things that make creating art so enticing— the idea is tested through the controlled chaos of process, and even the artist can’t always predict the exact final outcome.

Each January, we focus our issue of Pensacola Magazine on one or more aspects of the arts. For this issue, we focus on the artist’s process by bringing you into the studios of four talented local artists—a printmaker, a blade smith, a glassblower and a jewelry designer—to walk you through a very abbreviated version of their processes. Sometimes, seeing a final work of art, the non-artist can be unaware of the time and effort each unique piece takes to create. We hope you find this glimpse inside the artist’s process as interesting and as educational as we did.

Pensacola Magazine

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Wayne Meligan

BLADE SMITH

Wayne Meligan spent 12 years as a critical care nurse before he found his true calling as a blade smith. Born and raised in Pensacola, Meligan always enjoyed working with his hands and in the arts.

“I’m an artist,” Meligan said.

“I never knew exactly what I wanted to do. I had my hands in several different things— carpentry, woodworking and even some metal fabrication.

One day, something told me to get an anvil and to build a forge.”

In April of 2017, he did just that. Meligan purchased the tools he needed and created

his first blade. “It came really easy to me,” he remembered.

“It felt like that was what I was meant to do. It just felt too natural, and it was fantastic.

It was everything that I love.

I love the outdoors and sportsman stuff—hunting, fishing and camping. You use knives or tools for all of that, so to be able to forge my own blades is epic.”

Meligan has been going nonstop ever since. “At first, I gave them away to family and friends,” he said. “Then I started selling them for about the cost of the production.

Once I had all the right heattreat equipment and I knew that I was putting out a solid blade with good geometry, a good heat treat and a good fit and finish, and then I knew I could actually sell them.

Now, I sell them at fair market pricing. I sell everything online to people all over the world.

I don't sell anywhere else because I can't keep anything in stock. The problem is—this isn't a production company.

Everything I make is hand made and hand forged from start to finish. It takes hours and hours for every blade that I do. People get frustrated because I run out, but I am only one person.”

After I had been forging blades for a couple months, my mom said, ‘You know, your great granddaddy used to make blades.’ Then it all kind of came back to me. He died before I was born, but I remember when I was really young being over at his house, and I remember seeing all these big knives. He was a really big guy. He lived out in Molino, and he worked at the sawmill. He'd use those old saws and turn them into blades. I've actually got a couple of his blades. It's pretty cool to see that blade-smithing was in the blood.”

After garnering a following on Instagram, Meligan was featured in Blade Magazine.

Later, he was featured on the TV show Knife or Death, and in 2019, Meligan competed on the History Channel’s, Forged in Fire. Meligan competed against four other blade smiths from across the country.

Meligan, just two years into his blade-smithing career, won the competition.

For Meligan, his passion more than makes up for his relatively short time as a blade smith. “Just because I've only been doing this for 2.5 years, don't discredit me because the amount of hours I've put into this has given me the experience of someone who has been doing it 10 plus years,” he explained.

As for his creative process, Meligan likes to let the steel to lead the way. “Everything that I do, I like to keep it organic,” he explained. “I may say set out to make a chef knife or a machete.

I’ll have a general idea in my head of what I want to do, but I hate putting things on paper.

I feel like it takes away from the creative process. I like to get the steel hot, start forging it and as I envision it and as I'm hammering, it kind of comes to life. I feel like my best work is done that way. It's a true artistic approach.”

While Meligan works with a variety of steel types— including recycled saws and vehicle springs—he prefers using high carbon steel.

“There are two types of steel you can use to make a blade, he said. “One is high carbon steel and the other is stainless steel. Stainless is good. It has a lot more chromium in it, so it doesn't rust. I use carbon steel a lot because that's the true steel.

That's the steel they had back in the day.”

Interest in Meligan’s blades has been tremendous, and he doesn’t see that slowing down anytime soon. “Knife making is really making a come back,” he said. “Everyone is really getting into the handmade products—the quality and craftsmanship of that. When you buy a blade, you're not just buying a tool or a knife, you're buying an heirloom, and you're also buying a little piece of that artist.

the process 1. THE FIRST STEP FOR MELIGAN IS SELECTING HIS STEEL—usually high carbon steel. He then heats the steel in a gas burning forge which reaches temperatures over 2,000 degrees—hot enough to melt steel. Meligan reads the colors of the steel to determine its temperature.

He wants the steel hot enough that it won't cause micro cracks while hammering but not so hot that all the carbon is burning out, and he doesn’t want to melt the steel.

Once the steel reaches forging temperature, Meligan uses a power hammer and a hand hammer on the anvil to rough shape and hammer out the blade. That could take several hours to days depending on type of blade he is making and what type of steel he is using.

2. AFTER THE BASIC SHAPE OF THE BLADE IS FORGED, he uses a grinder to clean up the shape of the blade and to finetune the bevel work.

34 Pensacola Magazine

3. THE NEXT PHASE IS THE HEAT TREAT, which Meligan sees as one of the most important parts of the blade. For the heat treat, he doesn’t use the forge because he can't gauge the temperature with only color. That’s too much left to chance, so he uses an electric kiln because they will heat to the exact temperature they are set for and they will heat for the exact time period they are set to. Heating the blades takes away the stresses of the forging and reassembles all of the molecules in the steel.

After hours of the heat treat cycle, Meligan austenizes the steel by bringing it up to austenitizing temperature, which is about 1,500 degrees. Next, he pulls the blade out of the kiln and puts it into oil to quench it. The quench drops that temperature down really rapidly by pulling the heat out of the blade.

What this does is convert the austenite to martensite, which is the hardest form of steel.

photo by Wayne Meligan

4. AFTER THE TEMPERING, MELIGAN WORKS ON THE FINAL GRINDS, BEING VERY CAREFUL NOT TO OVERWORK THE STEEL. To keep from tempering the steel further, he grinds for a few seconds and then cools in water. This process is repeated until he gets the grinds almost to the final thickness.

From there, he hand sands the blade for hours depending on the type of finish he wants.

Once the blade is finely sanded, he begins to make the handle.

Meligan uses primarily hardwoods, which he glues to the handle, along with copper or brass pins for the physical hold.

Meligan also makes his own leather sheaths and scabbards.

The average blade takes between 12 and 20 hours, while specialty blades could take weeks to a month to complete.

To see more of Wayne Meligan’s work, visit thepirateforge.com.

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do this. It was kind of a lifelong dream. I was able to get my work into a very good gallery in Chicago and started doing some of the art fair circuit and looking into grants and residencies. I resigned from teaching in 2003.”

Yingst and his wife moved to Florida, where he found his

Kreg Yignst

PRINTMAKER Originally from the Chicago area, Kreg Yingst received his BA in painting from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, before returning to Illinois to teach and obtain his MA in painting from Eastern Illinois University.

While teaching, Yingst began thinking about making art full time.

“As kids growing up, you’re told a lot of the time that you just can’t do that,” Yingst said. “For some reason, at some point, you begin to believe them—as if they would know. But, really there’s never been a better time in our culture to make art

because it’s so visual.”

Yingst took a sabbatical to focus on different ways one could make a living as an artist.

“I was gathering information for my students,” he explained, “but in the process, I realized that I could

language barrier. That kind of grabbed me into the narrative.

I also like the fact that I could own this thing and hold it and know that Ward had actually made this work on it by hand.

It wasn’t removed. It wasn’t a digital reproduction. There wasn’t any in-between person.

̋ rintmaking is so different from P painting. It's almost like you are tapping into two opposites sides, but you’re not. You're tapping into the creative, but there are two different things you are considering. With painting, it’s an additive process, so I am layering and layering. I can continue to change and alter. With printmaking, once you've started carving, you better have it figured out. To me, it's more mathematical. ̋ paintings didn’t have quite the market they did in Chicago.

“I was doing some weird stuff back then,” he said. “It wasn’t for everyone.” This is when he turned a serious eye toward printmaking.

“I’ve always kind of been a narrative artist. It’s figurative as well, but I’ve always been interested in story, and that’s come out in my work forever,” Yingst explained. “I was very inspired by the work of printmakers Lyns Ward and Frans Masereel, who worked in the 1920s and 30s. They had done entire books that were called woodcut novels. They didn’t have any words. They were all images. You would read it, image after image, and it was probably the precursor to the graphic novel or the comic, but it didn’t have words.

I thought it was interesting that I could be reading it and someone in another country could be reading the same story. It kind of transcended the

It went straight from the artist to me. I started working with printmaking at that time. I had dabbled in it with my students, but it was all new to me.”

Yingst often works thematically—moving from blues, jazz and country musicians to classic rock, historical figures and even a series of biblical Psalm interpretations. Yingst typically carves his images into linoleum mounted on a wood base or occasionally into the wood itself. Depending on the desired outcome, Yingst prints on a variety of papers including cherry and mulberry. He uses a vintage Showcard sign press rescued from an old Sears to print his work. Although he typically carves narrative elements into the piece, he occasionally uses letters from his vintage letterpress font catalogue to overlay text on his images.

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the process 1. YINGST BEGINS EACH IDEA FOR A BLOCK PRINT WITH A SMALL THUMBNAIL SKETCH, then draws a final draft to scale before transferring the image to the block. The drawing on the block is backward as the eventual print will be the mirror image.

Once the drawing is transferred, the block is carved using several V and U shaped gouges. Yingst said there are a number of strategies he uses when trying to break down an image into just black and white, including hatching, light and shadow, shape, texture, crosshatching or a stippling technique. In the end, whatever is cut away will be white while the surface of the block will print black or in color.

2. ONCE THE BLOCK IS CARVED TO YINGST’S LIKING, the surface is inked with an oil-based ink, a paper is chosen and then both are hand-cranked through the press. The blocks that are too large for the press are burnished on the back using a large wooden spoon.

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3. FOR MULTI-COLORED PRINTS, AN INDIVIDUAL BLOCK IS CARVED FOR EVERY COLOR. The print must align with the previous image and be pulled through the press multiple times. For some pieces, like the Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown

print pictured here, the prints are individually painted using watercolors after printing. Prints are made in a limited edition series and the finished pieces are signed and numbered. To view more of Kreg Yingst’s work, visit kregyingst.com.

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Joe Hobbs

GLASSBLOWER

Joe Hobbs was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee but grew up in the Bahamas, Key West, Camarillo and Monterey, California. After studying briefly at the Rhode Island School of Design, Hobbs returned to California to study drawing and painting at California College of Arts in Oakland.

“I started blowing glass in college,” Hobbs said. “I took it as an elective. I thought it was going to be stained glass because I had never even heard of glassblowing before. The class description just said ‘glass.’ So, I took it.

I walked into the studio and I was instantly enamored. It was fire and molten glass. I was drawn to it immediately.

I decided that was what I wanted to do.”

Hobbs first job was as an assistant in the glass

“I'm lucky enough to be production studio of Frank Cavaz in Sonoma, California. able to draw, and I've always loved it. So, I’ll have an idea “I just helped him make and I will start doing some his work—bringing bits, sketches. Since the art of bringing color. I was the glassblowing is expensive, I low guy on the totem draw it all out first. That pole—sweeping floors and way, we are not wasting time. stuff like that—but I was So, I draw out all of the getting paid and I learned a steps and then I show my lot. From there, I did more jobs like that, and eventually, team. Next, we will make a couple of prototypes and I had some wonderful opportunities to start studios see if it is achieving the ideal color pattern or shape and run studios.”

I want. If we like those Hobbs talent and work prototypes, then I’ll actually ethic led to the opportunity make some final pieces of to start the glass program at that design. So, it goes form the Belmont Art Center in concept to drawing it out to 2001. prototyping to the finished “That was the beginning of piece. This can take two the program here. That was or three days, but I have total grassroots effort—I was worked on some concepts hand-making the flyers for for years. classes. It was just me until I While Hobbs does like to recruited a couple friends to plan out his work, ultimately, be my assistants.” he loves the unpredictable Hobbs ran the glass nature of glassblowing. studio at the Belmont Arts “We can try to do Center (now First City Arts everything exactly the same Center) for about eight every time, but each piece years. During that time, he is still going to come out a taught all of the classes and built the program into a very little bit different,” he said.

“I like the inherent chaos that successful entity. goes along with glass. That’s After going back to school part of the allure of it—that at the University of West Florida to finish his Bachelor you can only control up to so much. With my work, I of Fine Arts, Hobbs was like for there to be a little bit offered a job as a glass studio of happenstance.” manager in Austin, Texas.

Hobbs also sees his “I learned a lot about work as a form of dialogue lighting there. I did that with the viewer—a shared for a couple years and came experience that invites the back to Pensacola in 2015. viewer to make connections I had accrued a lot of new with the human condition, skill sets, and so, since then, nature, memory and life.

I've been doing a lot of lighting for local residences and businesses.”

Hobbs’ pieces always begin with an idea, a drawing and a plan.

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the process

1. HOBBS BEGINS BY PREHEATING THE END OF THE BLOWPIPE AND GATHERING CLEAR MOLTEN GLASS OUT OF THE FURNACE. He takes the glass and pipe to the marver table to begin slowly pulling the glass from the end of the blowpipe. Next, he blows into the blowpipe and caps it to trap the air. Now he has a starter bubble.

An assistant cools the clear glass before adding the white overlay. As Hobbs applies the white overlay, he pushes it over the clear bubble, creating a white bubble of glass. This will become the interior of the vessel.

3. ONCE THE EXTERIOR COLOR OVERLAY PATTERN IS COVERING THE WHITE GLASS COMPLETELY, Hobbs uses rounded wooden blocks and blown air to continue to shape the piece.

Once the colored overlay is even, Hobbs gathers more molten clear glass over it to enlarge the vessel.

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4. NEXT, HOBBS BRINGS THE PIECE TO THE BENCH WHERE HE BLOCKS AND SHAPES IT EVEN MORE. The rounded wooden blocks come in a variety of sizes for a variety of vessels. Hobbs is sure to quench the blocks continuously in order to preserve the blocks and keep the glass clean.

Using a combination of heating, rolling, shaping and blowing, Hobbs and his team slowly work the glass— blocking, blowing and gathering—continuing this process until the piece has reached the size and shape desired.

It's important to keep the rod spinning and the walls even during this process to ensure the structural integrity of the vessel.

2. AFTER WORKING THE WHITE BUBBLE TO HIS LIKING, Hobbs and his team drop the exterior sunset colored overlay on top of the white interior. The color is transferred from a heating rod to the white glass.

Next, he works the color over the white at the marver table, continuing to center and shape the glass as he goes. Each color has a different melting point, which makes the overlay process a very difficult one to master.

5. ONCE THE VESSEL IS INFLATED, the team heats for the jack line, which is where the piece breaks off from the blowpipe. Hobbs uses gravity and a jack tool cut the glass free from the pipe as his team transfers the piece to a solid rod using a punty transfer.

Hobbs then trims the lip at the top of the vessel. An assistant uses a cone shaped soffietta to do some final inflating and shaping before disconnecting the piece from solid rod.

To see more of Joe Hobbs work, visit or www.gallery1060.com/joe-hobbs

6. NEXT COMES THE FINAL INFLATION OF THE VESSEL. Hobbs calls to his assistant to blow the rod at various intensities while he shapes the exterior of the glass using a thick pad of folded up newspapers soaked in water.

The piece is now ready to sit in the annealer for 24 hours to slowly cool.

Once cool, Hobbs will smooth out the bottom and the sunset vessel will be ready for its close up.

Joe Hobbs was assisted by Jacob Moody and Cory Goodale for this piece.

Pensacola Magazine

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Ann Taylor Duease JEWELRY ARTIST

Anne Taylor Duease began her jewelrymaking odyssey in 2008. What started as a side hobby became a job in college and eventually, a career. Duease earned her bachelor’s degree in human sciences with a focus on merchandising and design and a minor in business. During her senior year, Duease apprenticed under a jewelry designer in New York, where she stayed for three years gaining valuable knowledge and contacts in the jewelry industry. In 2013, she decided to start her own business and her own line of jewelry.

After meeting and marrying a man from Pensacola, the couple moved here and Duease began working out of a studio at First City Art Center's Gallery 1060. Duease finds her inspiration in nature and the coastal lifestyle.

“The initial attraction to pearls and shells comes from my fascination with working with naturally found materials,” she said. “I love being able to take that natural beauty and make it into something both wearable and beautiful.”

One very popular piece is Duease's shell-based rings that combine semi-precious stones with pearls, gold and silver beading and precious metal clay. In addition to the coastal chic shell rings, Duease creates a wide variety of designs from freshwater, South Sea and Tahitian pearls along with natural stones like turquoise, larimar and moonstone.

“My pieces are very transitional,” Duease explained. “You can wear them during the day, but if you have to change your clothes for an event in the evening, you don't necessarily have to change your jewelry. I like to make pieces that are very versatile and easily wearable. I love statement pieces, but I don't want to feel the statement. I just want it to be seen. That's a lot of my strategy in design. There's also a little bohemian-luxe flair to my work with all of the natural elements. I'm drawn to the baroque and the more natural shapes. I really appreciate seeing all of the natural ridges and characteristics of how it was naturally created. Some people are drawn to the perfectly round pearls and I still use them, but I try to modernize it. So, if I do use a perfectly round pearl, I try to use something in the design

that’s going to make it feel not so stuffy or uptight. Something that gives a little edge to a classic look.”

Recently written up in British Vogue as a designer to watch in 2020, Duease creates four different collections per year for wholesale accounts across the country. Working on her own in her studio at Gallery 1060, Duease creates each and every piece by hand.

As for process, Duease says it really depends on the piece, with some very structured and others coming to life more organically.

“Seashell rings are so unique because they are all different,” she said. “I generally map those out as I go, and each one takes about two days to complete.

Collections, however, are very strategic, well thought out and thoroughly sketched in advance.

They really have to be.”

Duease also follows the trends in jewelry design on social media, and she loves how the jeweler community shares tips and tricks for using various materials. This community is how she learned to use a heat gun rather than a kiln or oven for curing the precious metal clay, which burns away the clay leaving only the precious metal behind.

Duease is also an environmentalist at heart.

“This industry and fashion in general can be so wasteful,” she explained. “There is just so much excess, so I'm always trying to reuse anything and everything. Even if I bust a shell open or I crack a pearl, I'll find a way to reuse it. I might set a stone inside the pearl or something like that.”

To see more of Anne Taylor Duease’s work, visit www. annetaylorduease.com and www.gallery1060.com/anntaylor-duease.

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the process

1. FIRST DUEASE CHOOSES HER SHELL. She tends to use cowry, conus or trochus shells. Each has their own unique beauty and variety of patterns and colors. The trochus shells are the most fragile and can be hard to find in the right size.

2. NEXT, SHE DRILLS THE SHELL, NOTING THAT DRILLING EACH SHELL IS DIFFERENT DEPENDING ON HARDNESS, SHAPE AND SIZE. Duease looks at the shell, considering ring placement and any unique shapes before deciding where to drill the hole.

She uses a pointed-tip grinding tool to begin the hole. The drilling must be done slowly to avoid any cracking, as the shells can be glass-like in terms of breaking into shards. As she drills, Duease gives the shell cold-water baths to keep it cool and to keep it from overheating and shattering.

Once the hole is drilled, Duease uses a rounded grinding tool to round out and smooth the opening and the edges.

4. ONCE THE EPOXY DRIES AND THE RING IS SIZED AND FINELY SMOOTHED, Duease measures the diameter of the shell and tapes off the cut line for the top of the ring. Then, first using a wheel cutter, she carefully etches out a line along the taped guideline. Then, using a diamond bit wheel, she cuts through the shell along the guideline. This is a very dusty process, so she is careful to wear a mask and cover her work area.

Once the top is cut off, she uses a grinding wheel and a diamond bit to flatten out the top of the ring, making sure it is even and smooth.

5. NEXT, SHE DRILLS A MOUNTING HOLE THROUGH THE TOP OF THE RING for whichever stone or pearl she plans to use and inserts a peg to hold the stone.

After placing the peg, she tapes off the top part of the shell and uses precious metal clay to create a base.

Duease then maps the area for the main stone or pearl, but she doesn't set it yet. To create texture, she places both metal casting grain beads and metal wire strands in her desired pattern, leaving room for the main setting.

Duease continues to thinly layer the metal clay and metal pieces until she achieves the desired look.

46 Pensacola Magazine

3. SATISFIED WITH THE SHAPE AND SMOOTHNESS OF THE OPENING, Duease injects a proprietary epoxy agent to fill any vulnerable spaces within the shell and to strengthen the piece as a whole. While most women wear a size 7 or 7.5 ring, Duease's shell rings are smoothed and sized to about a 6 or a 6.5 because it is much easier for her to widen a ring than it is to tighten one.

6. NEXT, SHE USES THE HEAT GUN TO CURE THE PRECIOUS METAL CLAY. This process burns away the clay component leaving only the precious metals behind.

When she is satisfied with her design, Duease sets the main stone or pearl and buffs the ring and setting to smooth and remove any dust.

Pensacola Magazine

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play/live/give POLAR BEAR DIP JAN. 1, 2020 The Flora-Bama Lounge on the FloridaAlabama state line on Perdido Key hosts this popular, annual splash in the Gulf of Mexico. Afterwards, everyone joins in a southern tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Say and warms up with good music and beverages. Great laughs, fun for the whole family!

POLAR BEAR PLUNGE JAN. 1, 2020 Need an exhilarating rush to help kick off your new year? Head to Paradise Bar & Grill on Pensacola Beach at 2 p.m. and plunge headfirst into the Santa Rosa Sound at the annual Polar Bear Plunge. Hosted by Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce at Paradise Bar & Grill, hundreds of dippers and spectators – many dressed in costume flock to the beach to participate in this long established tradition. Registration begins at noon and the registration fees can be found online. All proceeds go to support the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce.

EVIL DEAD: THE MUSICAL JAN. 2-4, 2020 Based on the cult classic horror films, ICMT's critically acclaimed, award winning production of “Evil Dead: The Musical" returns to Vinyl! The Jan. 2019 run of his horror-comedy musical at Vinyl Music Hall was the talk of the town.

Whether you missed it or just want to relive it, “Evil Dead: The Musical” is back for another run as part of the festival, with four shows Jan. 2-4, with two shows on Jan. 4 to include a famously raucous midnight show. Based on the cult classic horror films, “Evil Dead: The Musical” follows five college students to an old, abandoned “Cabin in the Woods” where they encounter demonic possession and an army of the dead … and sing about it all while splattering the audience with bloody good special effects.

PENSACOLA'S MARDI GRAS KICK OFF JAN. 4, 2020 This is a City Wide event, and the public is invited to attend the FREE EVENT. To kick off this fantastic Mardi Gras season, PMGI is very happy to present the Pensacola Mardi Gras Kick Off Celebration. Pensacola’s best parading Mardi Gras Krewe’s will have their float and their entire Krewe on Palafox and Government Streets, where their Krewe will be ceremoniously blessed and proclaimed ready to participate. Each Krewe will be in costume and will have it’s royalty present. The Father, along with the Town Crier T. Bubba Bechtol, will bless each individual float, the City of Pensacola, and the entire Pensacola Mardi Gras season. Come out and join us for FREE King Cake provided by Bluejay’s Bakery, and dance the night away with a second line jazz band street performance. The party starts at 5:30 pm.

MTV "MAD" REAL WORLD POP-UP BAR JAN. 2, 2020 - JAN. 5, 2020 Join us, along with the Pensacola Indie Fringe and Comedy Festival, for our MTV "Mad" Real World Pop-Up Bar at Garden & Grain, Jan. 2-5, 2020 honoring Donnell Rawlings and his work in Comedy Central's Chappelle's Show! Presented by the Indie Art Council Pensacola, we're honored to be one of the incredible venues for Pensacola's first Comedy Festival, Pensacola Comedy Festival, and we'll be hosting a myriad of comedians and performances all weekend long!

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY: LED ZEPPELIN JAN. 3, 2020 The Black Jacket Symphony returns to the Saenger Theatre Pensacola on Friday, Jan. 3rd to perform a full night of music from Led Zeppelin. Known

for their note-for-note, sound-for-sound recreations of classic albums, The Black Jacket Symphony wants you to help them choose the album! They’ll start the show with a surprise album—either II, III, IV, or Houses of the Holy—followed by a full set of Led Zeppelin hits. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience by recreating classic albums in a live performance setting with a first class lighting and video production.

DARREN KNIGHT’S SOUTHERN MOMMA COMEDY SHOW JAN. 4, 2020 Darren Knight, aka Southern Momma from Munford, Alabama, is the fastest rising comedian in American history. In just a few short months, he has cultivated a massive online presence, accumulating over a half a billion views across multiple social media platforms. Darren takes his persona to the stage, selling out Pensacola Magazine

49

play/live/give theatres and casinos nationwide. He's been compared to Jeff Foxworthy, as the next star of redneck comedy.

BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS BRIDAL EXPO JAN. 5, 2020 Getting Married in 2020? Congratulations Bride-To-Be! Please join us for our 17th annual "Beautiful Beginnings" Bridal Expo, Sunday, Jan. 5th from 11 am to 4 pm at The Pensacola Bay Center. 100 + wedding professionals will be on site with displays, information, samples. Plus Runway Fashion Show, Door Prizes and more! Grand Prize: Honeymoon. Kids 12 & under are free and do not need a ticket.

For more information contact The Bridal Loft.

JAN. 2020 JAZZ JAM FUN JAN. 6, 2020 Jazz it up with Jazz Pensacola! Free for participating musicians, including high school and college students with student IDs. Each participating student also receives one free admission ticket for one guest. Cost is $10 for Jazz Pensacola members and guests, $12 for non-members, free for students with ID and military in uniform. Become a Jazz Pensacola member at the event, and admission is free. Featuring the House Band led by trumpeter Roger Villines, Jazz Jam is strictly for fun, an opportunity to play jazz with other musicians. Drummers, please bring your own sticks/brushes.

INTRODUCTION TO ASIAN BRUSH PAINTING WORKSHOP JAN. 11, 2020 Come join us and have some fun! This is a beginner level class to introduce you to the beauty of Asian Brush Painting.

Using Chinese watercolors on “rice paper,” you will create several flowers, a variety of butterflies and graceful dragonflies; all from a simple stroke of the special brush.

These simple, yet lovely small paintings can be used to decorate cards, to use in a collage, on bookmarks, to wrap small gifts and many other uses. Sign up in person or call ahead.

50 Pensacola Magazine

KREWE OF NEREID KING KAKE PARTY JAN. 11, 2020 Come kick off the 2020 Mardi Gras season on Pensacola Beach with the Mermaids! DJ music with Boogie Inc., raffles & off course king kake! Laissez les bon temps rouler! It's free and open to the public!

PENSACOLA BEACH, 10K, 5K, HALF MARATHON JAN. 11, 2020 Run along a fast and flat race route along the beachfront shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida panhandle area, the Pensacola Beach Half Marathon, 10K & 5K features a course that’s open to both runners and walkers (in the 10K and 5K races) and takes participants along this city’s scenic waterfront along paved roads between the Gulf of Mexico and the Santa Rosa Sound.

TOTALLY 80S RETRO PARTY Jan. 11, 2019 Pensacola's only 80s music video party!

General Admission * Standing Room Only * If Any Seating Is Available, It Will Be On A Strictly First Come-First Serve Basis * FREE for 21+ * Additional $5 Cash Surcharge At The Door For 18-20 Pensacola's only 80s music video retro party! FREE for 21+ / $5 at the door for 18-20 Saturday Dec. 21st starting at 10 pm-until Dance and watch music videos on multiple massive screens throughout the club! DJ/VJ Doc Roc will be playing all the hits from the 80s- Michael Jackson, Journey, Queen, David Bowie, Billy Joel, Joan Jet, Culture Club, Prince, Run DMC, Madonna and more PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: BEETHOVEN & BLUE JEANS JAN. 11, 2020 It’s the most adventurous Pensacola Symphony Orchestra concert of the season featuring a variety of musical styles from Beethoven’s Egmont Overture to Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess. Tracy Silverman returns to Pensacola with his trademark six-string electric violin for The Dharma at Big Sur, complemented by a stunning video triptych playing above the orchestra. Celebrating 20 years as concertmaster, Leonid Yanovskiy will be

the featured soloist for Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending.

IMPROVABLE CAUSE JAN. 11, 2020 Improvable Cause is Pensacola's only professional improv comedy troupe!

Performing the first Saturday of every month at the Pensacola Little Theatre, IC's shows are completely unscripted and totally hilarious! Everything is created in the moment with audience suggestions, so each show is different! IC shows are edgeof-your-seat theatre where anything can happen (and usually does!)

WAITRESS JAN. 15-16, 2020 Meet Jenna, a waitress and expert piemaker who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage. Pouring her heart into her pies, she crafts desserts that mirror her topsy-turvy life such as “The Key (Lime) to Happiness Pie” and “Betrayed By My Eggs Pie.” When a baking contest in a nearby county — and a satisfying run-in with someone new — show Jenna a chance at a fresh start, she must find the courage to seize it. Change is on the menu, as long as Jenna can write her own perfectly personal recipe for happiness.

Brought to life by a groundbreaking, allfemale creative team, this Tony Award® -nominated hit features original music and lyrics by 6-time Grammy® nominee Sara Bareilles (“Love Song,” “Brave”), a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam) and direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus (Pippin, Finding Neverland).

GALLERY NIGHT JAN. 18, 2020 Celebrating the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Pig, the first Gallery Night of 2020 is bound to make you squeal! Come out and check out the galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, food trucks and street vendors.

SNOWBIRD FLY-IN JAN. 21, 2020 The National Aviation Museum is inviting winter visitors to a special event featuring entertainment from the Blue Anchor Belles, complimentary coffee, photo booths, and Museum attractions.

MOZART’S MASTERPIECE PENSACOLA OPERA PRESENTS: DON GIOVANNI JAN. 24-26, 2020 Mozart’s operatic masterpiece returns to the Saenger stage in a stunning new production created by Papermoon Opera Productions and stage director Fenlon Lamb. Don Giovanni is an arrogant, charismatic aristocrat who will stop at nothing to challenge unrequited lust – even if it means violence. His reign of terror ends in a brilliant finale as the fires of the underworld welcome opera’s lecherous libertine.

SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE! JAN 24-FEB 9, 2020 Directed by Mario Cieri. Musical Direction

by Kath Johansen. Choreography by Michael Dennis. Tom is a nervous school teacher about to start his first day of teaching. He tries to relax with a little TV when various characters representing the facets of his personality materialize from the television set. Reviving the catchy play, playful Saturday morning hits of the 1970s, Schoolhouse Rock Live! is both educational and enjoyable for everyone!

JANUARY 24 & 26, 2020

ARCADIA KID'S CRAFTS JAN. 25, 2020 Arcadia Mill will host a free Kids Craft on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Children will make a Chinese New Year drum while learning about this important holiday. All materials will be provided. Each activity is estimated to be completed in 30 minutes. All participants must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or adult. For more information, contact Arcadia Mill staff at 626-3084 or arcadiamill@uwf.edu.

ICE FLYER’S SCHEDULE: Jan. 4, 2020 Macon @Pensacola 7:05 Jan. 10, 2020 Evansville @Pensacola 7:35 Jan. 11, 2020 Evansville @Pensacola 7:05 Jan. 24, 2020 Birmingham @Pensacola 7:35 Jan. 25, 2020 Roanoke @Pensacola 7:05

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Magazine

January 2020

62. East Garden District This project is making additions that benefit the safety of pedestrians and strengthens community bonds all while paving the way for a more environmentally friendly city.

· OTHER STORIES ·

56 Navy Federal Names the Top

59 Fighting Hackers and Online

Navy Federal partnered with Hire Heroes USA®* to identify the top 10 industries and career paths that meet the values that matter most to servicemembers.

The newly founded partnership between UWF and the Jikei Group of Colleges, based out of Japan, gives students and faculty increased educational and workforce development opportunities.

10 Best Careers after Military Service

Criminals

67 Around the Region Find out what is happening in business, government and cultural news in the greater Pensacola area and Northwest Florida.

Business Climate 55

Navy Federal Names the Top 10 Best Careers After Military Service Navy Federal partnered with Hire Heroes USA®* to identify industries and career paths that meet the values that matter most to servicemembers. Clay Stackhouse, Navy Federal’s Member Outreach Manager for the panhandle: Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas, was a marine for 25 years, so he knew how challenging transitioning from the military to civilian life can be on veterans and their families.

“In the military, you have an identity. I left highschool and went right to the naval academy. My entire adult life was invested in my identity as a military person, and as you transition out, you're wondering what your identity will be,” Stackhouse said. “That’s why we partnered with these veterans, and we get very personal with the kinds of things they wanted. I had decided I was done chasing bad guys and I wanted to help the good guys. We talked to over a 1,000 people over a years time, and it turned out that transition help was one of the biggest things they wanted. Everybody wants gainful employment once they get out. So we partnered with hire heroes and we came up with a list with the best 10 occupations after service.”

Here are the top 10 industries Navy Federal identified as best after military service.

1. Health Care It’s not surprising that the health care industry is the #1 match for veterans’ goals, given the competitive salaries and how well jobs match military experience. Two other benefits that stood out were the strong sense of community and teamwork within the health care industry and its opportunities to help people. Some of the most popular career paths include: Hospital Operations/Logistics Registered Nurse (RN) Medical Research Administration (data, records, hospital functionality)

2. Government / Public Administration Believe it or not, 1 in 4 vets do some sort of government work. The combination of a competitive salary, opportunities for career growth, a match for military experience/ skills, consistent work location and flexible 56 Business Climate

hours/schedule checks a lot of our vets’ boxes. Some of the most popular career paths include: Administration Program Analyst Public Affairs

3. Defense Contracting Defense contracting is most popular among vets 45 and younger. Top reasons?

Competitive salaries, working for a missiondriven organization, having work suited to military experience and skills, and special programs for vets. Some of the most popular career paths include: Analyst Intelligence Specialist Contract Management Specialist Quality Assurance Manager

4. Information Technology In an increasingly digital world, careers in the IT field are becoming more popular and lucrative. IT jobs provide competitive salaries, clear advancement paths and a ton of training and development opportunities.

Some of the most popular career paths include: Project Manager Systems Engineer Cyber Security Data Analyst Information Security Analyst

5. Financial Services Financial services careers work particularly well for younger vets, with more than 1 in 10 in related jobs. Matching benefits include a clear advancement path, training, development and creative/strategic opportunities, and competitive salaries.

Some of the most popular career paths include: Analyst Financial Advisor Finance Manager Accountant

6. Education The education industry matches veterans’ desires for a mission-driven/team-oriented environment, mentorship opportunities and a consistent work location. For these and many other reasons, 13 percent of those with college degrees end up in education.

Some of the most popular career paths include: Education Counselor Curriculum Development Specialist Instruction Education Administration

7. Law Enforcement Law enforcement is one of the industries most suited for—and comparable to— military experience and skills. It offers clear career advancement and fulfills the desire for a mission-driven, team-oriented environment. It’s particularly popular among those living in the western US and those who transitioned in 2001 or later.

Some of the most popular career paths include: Police Officer Crime Scene Investigator Emergency Dispatch Corrections Officer

8. Retail Retail, unlike other industries on our list, offers incredibly flexible work schedules, along with a consistent work location, a goal-oriented environment and the opportunity to be selfmotivated. Veteran employment in retail is highest among those 45 and older. Some of the most popular career paths include: Sales Manager Marketing and Branding Warehouse Logistics Buyer

9. Manufacturing Manufacturing is the leading industry for vets without a college degree and for those over 35. This industry matched their desire for a good salary, consistent work location and a team environment.

Plus, they can take advantage of specialized training for career growth.

Some of the most popular career paths include: Floor Manager Maintenance Technician Production Supervisor Product Line Operator Machine Operator

10. Transportation/ Warehousing Rounding out our top 10 list for careers that match what vets value is transportation/warehousing, which gives them an opportunity to work with their hands and not have to sit at a desk in a traditional 9 to 5 job. Similar to manufacturing, this industry provides specialized training to advance in the field. It also allows them to be involved with a mission-driven organization and is well-suited to their military experience and skills. Some of the most popular career paths include: Driver Logistics/Distribution Manager Warehouse Manager Package Handler GiS Specialist

Business Climate 57

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Fighting Hackers and Online Criminals:

New Strides in UWF Cybersecurity Program

by Dakota Parks

As recent as December 2019, Pensacola was under a cybersecurity attack.

The hackers crippled the city’s communication networks impacting phones, emails and potentially personal data in major offices like City Hall. A thorough investigation is still on going; however, the attack reiterates the need for a growing cybersecurity industry—one that the University of West Florida is helping expand through its recent partnership with Jikei Group of Colleges based out of Japan. In early December, a memorandum of understanding was signed between UWF and Jikei Group to officiate their program partnership.

Cybersecurity is the study of computer security that protects computer systems from theft or damage to their hardware, software or electronic data.

Despite the portrayal of vendetta-hungry “hackers” in movies and popular television, hacking doesn’t require as much effort as it once did.

The role of the cybersecurity industry is to combat hackers and online criminals by protecting computers and systems. In a recent press release from UWF, the university estimated, “by 2021, there will be an estimated $6 trillion in cybercrime damages and 3.5 million unfilled jobs, according to Cybersecurity Ventures, a

provider of data and analytics for the industry.” Therefore, the partnership with Jikei Group could not come at a more crucial time in the cybersecurity industry.

UWF has had a longstanding relationship with Jikei Group in different educational fields.

However, the cybersecurity partnership really kicked off when UWF President Saunders and the Director for the Center for Cybersecurity at UWF, Dr. Eman El-Sheikh both visited Jikei Group in early 2019 to help facilitate the partnership.

Dr. El-Sheikh explained that UWF is a national leader in

Business Climate 59

cybersecurity: “UWF has emerged as a national leader in cybersecurity education and workforce development. A few short years ago, UWF became an NSA/DHS National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense Education.

Since then, the UWF Center for Cybersecurity has been designated as the Cybersecurity CAE Regional Resource Center for the Southeast U.S. by providing leadership to advance cybersecurity education for colleges and universities across the Southeast.”

However, Dr. El-Sheikh also reiterated that the flourishing job-market is leaving positions unfilled: “The cybersecurity job market 60 Business Climate

in Northwest Florida, or the Cyber Coast as we call it, is strong and growing. Recent estimates indicate that there are currently over 2000 unfilled cybersecurity jobs in Northwest Florida and our region's cybersecurity job growth rate is outpacing the national average. Employers include defense contractors, such as Raytheon, Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics IT, and private sector employers, such as Navy Federal Credit Union and AppRiver.”

The partnership with Jikei Group will not only help students learn about different cultures through foreign exchange and study abroad opportunities, but

The University of West Florida and the Jikei Group of Colleges in Japan announced a partnership that aims to enhance global cybersecurity workforce development, signing a memorandum of understanding on Monday, Dec. 2, at the UWF Center for Cybersecurity in downtown Pensacola.

it will also help students network and strengthen workforce development.

The partnership will include multiple programs, training, and general networking opportunities.

“The collaboration will facilitate (1) sharing of expertise to develop bestpractice educational programs, (2) collaborative cybersecurity training events for industry partners, (3) training for Jikei cybersecurity faculty and partners and (4) faculty and student exchanges,” said Dr. El-Sheikh.

The partnership is a major stride in regional and global cybersecurity. Through partnerships like UWF and Jikei Group of Colleges, students receive increased training and preparation to fill the outpour of cybersecurity jobs, such as the unfilled positions in the Northwest Florida region. To learn more about the partnership and the cybersecurity programs at UWF, check out uwf.edu/go/ cybersecurity.

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EAST GARDEN DISTRICT STREET DIET MAKES ROOM FOR THE FUTURE

BY GINA CASTRO 62 Business Climate

While many of us are planning our new year diets, downtown Pensacola will also be slimming down through what healthcare real estate developer and Pensacola native Chad Henderson is calling a “street diet.�

Henderson is pioneering the East Garden District (EGD) project, which is bounded by Palafox, Chase, Tarragona and Garden streets and spans Jefferson Street. The project is making additions that benefit the safety of pedestrians and strengthens community bonds all while paving the way for a more environmentally friendly city. Henderson estimates this project will cost about $50 million.

“We wanted to make sure that the environment promotes walkability to where you could access a lot of the ground floor retail and experiences along Jefferson and Garden streets and certainly, an element of that is making people feel safe.”

A primary focus for this project is to improve the walkability of the neglected two-block area by implementing a street diet to Jefferson Street. The street diet will create narrower roadways to calm traffic and wider sidewalks.

“The street diet will allow for much more of a walkable environment that promotes pedestrian safety,” Henderson said. “In other words, it will be an environment that is very comfortable for people and allowable for cars but not necessarily comfortable for vehicles. However, you certainly can still have vehicular access. It's just much more of a pedestrian safe environment.”

“We wanted to make sure that the environment promotes walkability to where you could access a lot of the ground floor retail and experiences along Jefferson and Garden streets,” Henderson said. “And certainly, an element of that is making people feel safe.”

EGD also wants to help strengthen Pensacola’s community feel by

marketing of the East Garden District project. "The EGD has certainly drawn inspiration from Pensacola's rich history," Belsinger said. "When the British took control of Pensacola from the Spanish in 1764, Elias Durnford was appointed Commanding Engineer and Surveyor-General of the new British West Florida. Durnford laid out a new city plan for Pensacola, much of which is still intact today,

EGD decided to implement this street diet after seeing the results of Studer Properties’ similar project at Southtowne and the YMCA. The area, located on Intendencia between Tarragona and Jefferson, features wide sidewalks, street lighting and crosswalks.

Henderson plans to add onto that idea of downtown being more pedestrian friendly. The roadside of the wide brick sidewalks will feature tall trees for much needed shade during Florida’s hot summer days. There will also be larger crosswalks and plentiful street lighting, which will help make pedestrians more visible to oncoming vehicles while also driving more foot traffic to nearby shops.

The East Garden District will feature wide brick sidewalks, street lighting and tall shady trees.

adding an Urban Plaza to the project.

Henderson has looked to the father of Pensacola's City plan, Elias Durnford, to help establish the community and connectivity the project hopes for.

Tosh Belsinger, with 1559 Advisors, has been brought in by Henderson to assist in the development and

including Seville Square and Plaza Ferdinand. The East Garden District's Urban Plaza on Jefferson Street will pay tribute to Durnford's vision for Pensacola, and the importance of beautiful public spaces in urban planning and community building."

Business Climate 63

EAST GARDEN DISTRICT STREET DIET MAKES ROOM FOR THE FUTURE The Urban Plaza features an open space with plenty of seating and shade for comfortable outdoor eating or a spot to rest and chat with friends.

“The motivation for the Urban Plaza was to create places where there could be gathering spots,” Henderson said.

“A lot of the EGD was framed up with the mindset of creating spots for people to gather, have human capital exchange and promote ideas of interest in entrepreneurship and other ideas. We wanted to have a good gathering place for people to get together and enjoy our historic downtown and the amenities around it but also foster conversations to move our community forward.”

Following their initiative of moving the Pensacola community forward, EGD will also be making environmentally friendly additions to the project.

One of the issues facing Pensacola is flooding from rain runoff. So, EGD will slow, treat and store rainwater from the roadways and walkways through

environmentally friendly systems such as pervious pavers, subsurface tree storage cells and beautiful rain gardens.

“There is always the pressure of storm water within downtown,” Henderson said. “Implementing a bioretention aspect to the project will help alleviate some of the storm water concerns within this area of downtown, and that was important to us.”

Systems like pervious pavers help remove pollutants from the water by absorbing the rainwater into the gravel base before letting the water enter the soil. This filtration system reduces the amount of pollutants that enter the soil.

These environmentally friendly systems also add an elegant and modern feel to the area like some larger cities showcase.

from those examples,” Henderson said.

In bringing these revolutionary ideas to the forefront of the establishment of EGD, Henderson hopes to inspire more of Pensacola’s stakeholders to follow his footsteps.

“One of the points to note is just how this development can be a case study or a white paper for multiple stakeholders in our community, such as the City, the CRA, the state, Gulf Power and other stakeholders, to showcase what development can look like throughout our downtown,” Henderson said.

“It’s really a stakeholder engagement opportunity for a lot of different entities and authorities to come together and talk about good development and moving forward.”

“This would be, to our knowledge, the first of its kind in the immediate area, but certainly larger cities, such as Austin and Nashville, have utilized these techniques, and we have learned

The East Garden District's Urban Plaza will be a refreshing gathering place. It features plenty of seating and shade.

64 Business Climate

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AROUND THE REGION RE/MAX On the Coast Homes has decided to rebrand and join Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty, one of the country’s fastest-growing real estate companies.

“We have been selective about the agents that represent our office,” said Sam Waghalter.

“They are experienced agents that conduct business with integrity and have been an asset to our company and the community.”

“We’ve always had a growth mindset from the very start, and we view our new affiliation with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty as the next, most logical step for our growth,” said Sherlyn Waghalter. “We’re so proud to partner with such a respected brand as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, along with PenFed—the second largest federal “We are excited to welcome broker/owners credit union in the country. But while Sam and Sherlyn Waghalter and their our brand is changing, our commitment extended family of agents and staff to the to the real estate needs of Pensacola-area company,” said Royce Mitchell, Regional Vice President, Florida. “They’ve grown their homebuyers and sellers remains as strong as firm into a powerhouse brokerage and one of ever.” the most well-respected in the area, and we Though Sam and Sherlyn Waghalter are consider it an honor and a validation of our mission, vision and values that Sam, Sherlyn excited to begin this new path with Berkshire Hathaway, Sherlyn Waghalter said that this and their team chose to join with us.” transition also feels bittersweet.

Founded by Sam and Sherlyn Waghalter in 2004, RE/MAX On the Coast has been one “Its bittersweet for us because we founded this company in 2004, and this has been our of the top ten real estate companies in the reputation and all of our hard work going Pensacola market since it began. The office into RE/MAX On the Coast, so it really is has a roster of more than 25 of the most respected real estate professionals in the area bittersweet that there won’t be a RE/MAX On the Coast any longer,” Sherlyn Waghalter and boasts over $1 billion in sales since the said. “But we just felt so strongly that this company started. was the right direction for the future to help our customers and our agents.”

Visit Pensacola Now Accepting Grant Applications for Events Taking Place May 1 – Sept. 30, 2020 Twice a year, Visit Pensacola allocates funds from its annual budget to a grant program for local groups and organizations that coordinate events or visitor experiences with a demonstrated history of visitor impact or significant potential to draw visitors to the area. The Visit Pensacola grant program’s main purpose is to attract visitors while engaging the local community with more experiences.

Visit Pensacola is now accepting grant applications for events occurring between May 1 – Sept.30, 2020. The grant deadline is 3 p.m. on Feb.11. Grant workshops will be hosted at the below dates and times in the Bowden Building located at 120 Church Street. All grant applicants are encouraged to attend one of the workshops, as additional points are awarded during the scoring process of your application if you attend.

Workshop seating is limited, so reserve your seat by emailing Barbara Williams at bwilliams@visitpensacola.com.

January 6, 2020 – 10 a.m.

January 7, 2020 – 2:30 p.m.

January 15, 2020 – 10 a.m.

January 16, 2020 – 2:30 p.m.

Sherlyn Waghalter said that one of the reasons they decided to rebrand was for the exposure and innovative technology Berkshire Hathaway offers. Berkshire Hathaway is a Warren Buffett company. All Berkshire Hathaway listings are featured on the Wall Street Journal website. She also said that this brand has innovative technology to formulate the value of someone's home and other tools to benefit both the consumer and her agents.

In addition to her passion for real estate, Sherlyn Waghalter has been actively involved in giving back to her industry and the community. She is a long-time member of the Pensacola Bay Area Impact 100, served as a mentor for Take Stock in Children and was on the board of the Pensacola Association of Realtors®. She hails from Baton Rouge, La., but her family has called Florida “home” for 25 years. After the transition, Sherlyn will stay true to her passion and continue to sell real estate.

Effective Dec. 19, the company will be rebranded as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty but will continue in its present location at 836 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., Gulf Breeze, Fla. Sherlyn, Sam and the rest of the team can be reached at 850-932-6278.

The Visit Pensacola Grant Committee will meet to review and score applications on Feb. 17 and Feb. 18(if needed) at 2:30 p.m. at the UWF Historic Trust Bowden Building, 1st Floor. Following, the Visit Pensacola Board of Directors will vote to approve grants on Feb. 26 at the monthly board meeting.

You may apply for a mini-grant at any time if you are seeking funds less than $5,000.

Mini-grant guidelines can be viewed here.

For more information on grant guidelines, scoring, and the application process, please contact Nicole Stacey at nstacey@ visitpensacola.com with any questions.

Business Climate 67

AROUND THE REGION UWF to offer new construction management degree The University of West Florida is launching a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management beginning in Fall 2020, pending approval from the Florida Board of Governors. The UWF Board of Trustees approved the program at its quarterly meeting held on Dec. 5, 2019.

The proposed program currently operates as a specialization in building construction within the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology program. Dr. George Ellenberg, provost and senior vice president, says repositioning it as a stand-alone degree will increase the program’s visibility and provide students and potential employers with a better understanding of the education and training graduates receive from UWF. “We are responding to local workforce demand for the construction management industry, and this offering will help satisfy many of those needs,” Ellenberg said.

“Students and potential employers can be assured that this will be a rigorous program that prepares graduates for a career in the field.”

Zoo “Shell-abrates” Conservation With Grant Award The Gulf Breeze Zoo recently awarded a 2019 Zoofari Parks Conservation Grant of $5,000 to the University of West Florida’s Biology Department. The University’s Project Manager, Dr. Phil Darby will use the grant to protect a threatened local species, the Gopher tortoise. UWF students have been particularly interested in this species because wild Gopher tortoises are found living in and around the 1,600 acre campus. In 2007, Florida Fish and Wildlife Services named the eastern Gopher tortoise as a Threatened species, which means without intervention the species will likely become endangered in the foreseeable future.

The Zoo solicited and received grant applications from across the world, but when it came time to select a winner CEO Eric Mogensen decided the best project was in our own backyard. “We wanted to help a local 68 Business Climate

Housed in the Department of Administration and Law in the College of Education and Professional Studies, the new program will consist of 120 semester hours, taught in the traditional face-to-face format.

Students will graduate prepared for various positions in the building construction and general contracting industries including, construction management, supervision, inspection and estimation.

“The Northwest Florida community will benefit greatly from the addition of this program,” said Dr. William Crawley, dean of the UWF College of Education and Professional Studies. “Alongside building construction occupations, our area is growing and we have the opportunity to retain our graduates' local talent. Equally important, based on the caliber of our other programs, potential employers can have confidence in hiring the students and alumni of the building construction management program in the future.”

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts more than 11 percent growth in construction management related occupations through 2026 with an annual median wage for

cause, who may otherwise have been overlooked for funding. We believe small things make a big difference, and the Gopher tortoise is no exception. This conservation grant isn’t just about a donation, it’s about making a difference.”

Many people don’t realize this keystone species creates homes and shares their burrows with more than 350 other species, making it very important for the ecosystem. Gopher tortoise populations are threatened by habitat loss, disease, and human conflict for the pet trade.

The grant awarded to the University of West Florida focuses on: • Gopher tortoise monitoring using cameras to collect data • Surveying land and identifying important habitat for the regional population • Creating educational materials to raise awareness • Support UWF Biologists to attend the FFWCC sanctioned workshops

construction managers of $93,370. In addition, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity projects more than12 percent growth in construction management jobs in the state of Florida through 2026 with an annual median wage of $79,850.

In the local counties of Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton, construction of buildings and specialty trade contractors ranked among the top 20 fastest growth industries.

For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, visit uwf.edu/construction.

The Zoo celebrated with the University team by inviting them to the Zoo to meet another threatened species, the Galapagos tortoise.

Conservation Coordinator Katy Massey said, “Partnering with the University has given the Zoo an opportunity to support students who care about local wildlife and can realistically create change. Working with these bright students has given new hope for the future of wildlife conservation and reminds us that there is always something new to learn. In this case: knowledge is power.”

The Gulf Coast Area’s award-winning Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than 900 exotic animals. The Zoo supports wildlife conservation in 25+ countries globally through financial aid, public education, captive breeding, and habitat preservation. The Zoo opens at 9 am daily and is located just off Highway 98. Visit www.GBZoo.com for event updates, seasonal hours, and more.

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ON THEA MARKET Real Estate Section

In This Section By the Numbers: A Look at November's Market Highlights page 72 How to Protect Your Most Valuable Asset page 74

Make the Most of your Bathroom Renovation page 76

Easy Ways to Improve Your Home's Health page 78 5 Tips to Refresh Your Home in the New Year Page 80

On the Market 71

BY THE NUMBERS

A LOOK AT NOVEMBER'S MARKET HIGHLIGHTS

825 53

Monthly Sales

Avg. Days on Market

2818 $215k

Quarterly Sales

Median Sale Price

MARKET HIGHLIGHTS November sales were slipped 16% from October’s, and 1% from last November’s.

72 On The Market

Median sale price also remained virtually identical to October’s $215,000 figure.

Combined DOM for the month was 53, one day less than the previous month.

Pending sales were up 13% compared to November of last year.

Information courtesy of Pensacola Association of Realtors

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Your DREAM HOME awaits in the coveted subdivision of PERDIDO KEY COVES, This CUSTOM ICF home is a 4550 square ft. 4 bed, 3 bath with over 700 square feet of OUTSIDE PORCHES & BALCONIES to view GORGEOUS SUNSETS over OLE river and THE GULF. Projected rental is $80k with Resort Quest and another 15% if a pool is added...perfect for Weddings! This beauty is surrounded by the Perdido state park these views remain!

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Carrie Lee • 850.450.3931 • carrie.lee@penfedrealty.com

Gulf Breeze

3029 Coral Strip Pkwy $451,250 | MLS# 561635 There is something very special about water – And something very special about a home that is on the canal with THIS outstanding view. The property is located at the intersection of two canals with a view overlooking the length of the canal. Move in ready and No carpet! All tile downstairs and new laminate flooring upstairs.

Main floor master bedroom with a private entrance to the back deck. Master bath with double vanity, garden tub and large walk-in closet. Beautiful new staircase to take you upstairs.

Nancy Grogan • 850.377.7578 • nancy.grogan@penfedrealty.com

Molino

3650 Crabtree Church Rd $397,000 | MLS# 559638 Extremely well maintained. This unique 2+ acre, corner lot property has a main house 4 bed 3 bath, guest house with carport 2 beds 1 Bath, a barn/workshop (30x50), lean-to shed (30x12), and a covered carport (45x20) for 17 foot RV parking. The main house has 4 bedrooms with 3 full baths, a beautiful open dining room with gourmet kitchen, 2 car garage. The HVAC was updated in 2014 (HVAC contract with Hamerick), along with new (extra) insulation (exceeds R38), and vent fans. 30 year architectural roof installed in 2005.

Randall Graves • 850.516.6763 • randallsellspensacola@gmail.com

ON THE MARKET

How To Protect Your Most Valuable Asset

incidents away from your home. Generally, it also covers your legal costs associated with such claims against you.

As a rule, your liability coverage should at least be equal to the total value of your assets for both your homeowners and auto insurance. If your assets are higher than the maximum coverage allowed under the policy, consider purchasing umbrella insurance to cover the difference. This is important to protect the savings and other assets you've worked hard to acquire.

If you're like many Americans, your home may be your most valuable asset. That's why it's so important to protect it with homeowners insurance. Plus, it's probably a requirement of your mortgage. Setting up your coverage the right way starts with understanding the major parts of a homeowners policy.

clothing and pretty much everything else inside your home. Most policies set the amount of personal property protection as a percentage of the dwelling coverage.

It may not be enough, though.

Homeowners plans set limits on certain high-value items. If you own expensive jewelry, art, guns, stamps, furs, cameras, computers, silver or collectibles, you'll want to consider buying valuable personal property insurance. This is sometimes called a “personal articles floater.�

Consider the following information and tips from the USAA Home Learning Center:

When you set up your homeowners policy, you may have to make an important choice about how to reimburse losses. There are two approaches:

Dwelling protection This protection covers the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home if it's damaged or destroyed. When you select the amount, keep in mind the cost to rebuild your home is different from its market value.

It's important to get the dwelling coverage right and to monitor it over time to make sure it keeps up with construction costs to rebuild. Under most homeowners policies, if you file a claim and have underinsured your home, your payout may be reduced.

Some insurers will help you estimate the rebuilding cost. They take into account the features, materials and finishes that make your home unique.

Personal property protection This protection covers your furniture, 74 On The Market

Replacement cost. This coverage is the amount needed to replace the property with a comparable, new item.

Actual cash value. This coverage considers depreciation in the value of your property. If your 10-year-old couch is destroyed, you'd receive what it was worth at the time of loss, not the money you'd need to buy a new one.

To make your recovery from a loss as smooth as possible, replacement cost coverage is recommended.

Liability coverage This is one of the most important and least appreciated forms of protection offered through homeowners coverage. It protects you if you're found to be at fault for someone's injury or property damage.

It even covers you for non-automobile

Deductibles As with other types of insurance, a deductible is the part of a loss that you're responsible for covering out of your own pocket. The higher your deductible, the lower your monthly premium.

Choosing a higher deductible can save you money with a lower monthly premium but increases the risk you take. Consider the amount of cash you typically have on hand in your emergency fund or checking and savings accounts. Make sure you can cover the deductible amount comfortably.

What may not be covered Your policy's basic coverage won't cover some special risks.

Floods: While a standard policy covers most weather-related events, floods aren't one of them. Flood insurance is inexpensive and the federal government offers it through insurers. While it's mandatory when you have a mortgage and live in a flood zone, you should give it strong consideration no matter where you live. Whether it's a flash flood or a few inches of excess water, flooding can cause massive damage to your dwelling and its contents.

Earthquakes: You can add coverage for earth movements to your policy with an extra premium. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, consider reinforcing your home protection with this coverage.

Home businesses: Homeowners plans provide limited coverage for business equipment. If you run your business from home or have expensive office equipment, you may need to consider additional coverage. Your homeowners policy may not cover injuries to someone if they're related to your business.

For additional information on protecting your home, visit USAA.com/Homeowners.

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LOANS FOR LAND, HOME AND FARMS If you’re ready to invest in timberland, a farm, or just a place to hunt and fish, turn to our team of Rural Lending Experts. With historically low interest rates and our unique ability to lock in rates long-term, there has never been a better time to buy that tract you’ve always wanted.

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ON THE MARKET

Make the Most of Your Bathroom Renovation

Adding additional bathroom space to your home or renovating an outdated lavatory can improve your home’s usability and increase its value, too.

To get the most practical benefits and value out of your new space, there are several factors to consider.

Before you get started, take into account these considerations about the design and function of your new bathroom from the remodeling experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Space A primary consideration is the available footprint to create your new bath.

This is often a concern as children reach their teen years and also with expanding families. If there aren’t enough bathrooms in the house, you may want to add another, or it may be that you simply need to improve the layout and features to make better use of the existing space. For example, if the bath will be shared by multiple members of the family, a separation of the sinks from the rest of the room may be helpful.

Features Determining how you will use your bathroom dictates the features you’ll want to include. A guest or hall bath is likely to have far fewer features than a master bath but may share some similarities with a kids’ bathroom. First, you’ll need to make decisions about 76 On The Market

basics like lighting, the number of sinks and amount of counter space you’ll need.

If you like baths, you’ll need to decide between a tub and shower combination unit or separate facilities. With a separate tub, the style you prefer may guide your overall design. The aesthetic for a bathroom with a focal point like a claw-foot tub is likely different from a jetted tub.

Storage Storage is one of the biggest concerns in any design, particularly in rooms as small as typical bathrooms. Carefully consider this aspect of the room during your pre-planning phase. To help determine how much space you need, make a list of all the items you need to store in the bathroom, including cleaning agents, toiletries, linens, first aid items and medications.

It’s a good idea to also think about where in the room you would like to store each of these items. You may want some of the toiletries in the shower area, while others will be used near the sink or dressing area.

Sustainability Many contemporary bathroom fixtures are designed with sustainability in mind, so you can manage your water usage while still enjoying a water-rich environment. You can find water-saving features on everything from toilets to shower heads to even sink faucets.

Accessibility Applying universal design principles to your project can promote safety and increase your home’s appeal to a wider range of buyers in the future. In the bathroom, you can improve safety by incorporating non-slip flooring surfaces and ensuring the space is well-lit.

Other ideas include adjusting counter and toilet heights to make bathrooms more accessible (wall-hung toilets should be approximately two inches higher). You could incorporate structural bracing around the tub, shower and toilet for grab bars. You might also consider a walk-in tub or stand-up shower with no threshold, levered handles for faucets and an adjustable showerhead.

For 27 years, Adams Homes has built a reputation based on exceptional quality at an unbeatable value. Contact us today to learn more about communities in your area and see what makes the Adams Homes Difference!

Find your dream home in these areas served by locally managed offices!

Pensacola Area 850-469-0977

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Michael Johnson, Agent 3127 E Langley Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Bus: 850-478-7748 www.michaeljohnsonagency.com

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ON THE MARKET change the color of your bulb with the swipe of a finger, you can also easily control your mood. Warm lighting typically has an overall positive effect on everyone in the home. One of the keys to home wellness is ensuring you are truly happy in your home, and lighting can play a pivotal role in cultivating this emotion.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Easy Ways to Improve Your Home’s Health Maintaining a healthy home is a goal most Americans share, but not all are confident they’re doing the best job they can to protect their home’s health.

According to a survey conducted

by Second Nature, the nation’s largest home wellness subscription service, 62% of respondents admitted they could do a better job of attaining a healthy home, with clean air ranked as the most critical factor in achieving home wellness.

Gain more confidence in the health and cleanliness of your home with these tips: 78 On The Market

Remove your shoes when you enter the house. Add entryway seating to encourage guests to take off their shoes. The bottom of a pair of shoes can contain anything from fecal matter to E. coli and pesticides.

Leaving shoes at an entryway is one of the easiest ways to combat home pollution and promote a healthy home.

Replace air filters regularly. The air filter in your home dictates the air you breathe and ensures that it is healthy enough for ingestion. More often than not, air filters are not top of mind when thinking about home wellness, but they are crucial to every home. That’s why it’s important to replace air filters on schedule – every

three months as recommended by the National Institutes of Health.

If you’re like many homeowners who struggle to remember when it’s time to change your filter, or never have a filter handy when you do remember, you may benefit from a service like Second Nature, which provides a home delivery subscription that ensures your air filters are replaced on time.

The company’s high-quality air filters help reduce the risk of contracting allergies, sickness and infection while also ultimately lowering costs associated with energy bills, repairs and health-related expenses.

Change out your light bulbs.

Choose the right color temperature for a calmer home and use energy-efficient bulbs.

The selection for light bulbs is massive, and with smart home technologies that allow you to

Open windows on good weather days. Most Americans (61%) believe the air inside their homes is cleaner than it is outside, according to the survey. However, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates indoor air is 2-5 times more polluted than the air outside. This is in part because Americans tend to enclose themselves indoors, where the same air is recycled over an extended time. The smell of the meal you cooked for dinner, the trash in the garbage can and the candle you light on your nightstand all have an impact on the air quality in your home. Opening windows allows for polluted air to release itself from the home and, in turn, allows for cleaner air to circulate the space.

Filter your water. Water is essential to any healthy lifestyle, and drinking clean water is a luxury that is often overlooked. However, what is also overlooked is how many chemicals and toxins that can affect your health are in the tap water you drink on a daily basis. Filtering your water is one simple step that can benefit not only your own health, but the health of everyone in the home.

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ON THE MARKET

5 Tips to Refresh Your Home in the New Year Each new year gives you the chance to reset and start new routines. When you’re considering new approaches to healthy living – whether eliminating or adding habits to improve your daily life – beginning with your home is an optimal choice.

Your living environment has a strong influence on your life, and it’s worth evaluating how you can make updates that create a positive space for you and all that the new year will bring. Consider these ideas to refresh your home and simplify your housecleaning routine so you can spend more time focusing on your goals this year.

Start by Decluttering It’s practically impossible to get excited about a fresh start when you’re surrounding by last year’s junk. Make decluttering and purging unnecessary items a top priority for your refresh. Clear counters and tables to create more inviting surfaces and force yourself to assess which items are worth keeping. Get rid of items you don’t need by donating, selling or disposing them. Tackle piles of things you’ve carelessly tossed aside 80 On The Market

Photo courtesy of Getty Images and find (or create) purposeful places for them to belong.

Simplify Your Laundry Routine Whether it’s the frustration of having no clean laundry or never-ending baskets filled with clothes that need folding, laundry is an area where nearly every home can use a refresh.

Start with the basics to make laundry easy and quick. A streamlined laundry system starts with the right tools for the job, such as all Mighty Pacs, which are available in several varieties with different benefits and contain single doses of detergent that release while inside your machine, so you can simply toss one in and start the load. If you have sensitive skin, try all Free Clear, the No. 1 recommended detergent brand by dermatologists, allergists and pediatricians for sensitive skin.

It’s gentle and works through tough stains fast.

Create a Fitness Space One way to stay committed to a new workout regimen is to create a place where you enjoy spending time. Even if you don’t have a room to dedicate to fitness, you can make a fitness corner feel more intentional and less like an afterthought with some simple changes. If possible, locate your fitness area near a window so you can soak up the energy of natural light. Clear away unnecessary items and make room for the equipment or floor space you need. Add inspiring posters or make frames to hold your current workout guide. Add storage for hand weights, resistance bands and other small equipment to create your own home gym.

Reconfigure Your Furniture A full-fledged renovation may not be in the cards (or budget), but you can give your living space a quick

facelift by simply rearranging the furniture. Beyond simple aesthetic changes, think about how you can make better use of natural light and improve traffic patterns. You might also eliminate extra pieces if the space feels overcrowded or consider borrowing functional items that add storage or seating from other rooms in the house.

Add Greenery The middle of winter may not seem like an ideal time to hone your green thumb, but adding a few plants can make your home feel more inviting and chase away the cold weather blues.

Plants can also help serve as a natural air purifying system; they absorb carbon dioxide to help stimulate their growth and are believed to absorb a host of other airborne pollutants.

REAL ESTATE RESOURCES - FL

ROXIE DIANA MCCOY

BROKER/OWNER

850.572.7486

roxy.mccoy@gmail.com

5979 RUSTIC RIDGE CIR, MILTON

5561 COLUMBIA AVE, MILTON

$248,500 | 4 BD 3.5 BA MLS# 556709

$299,900 | 4 BD 3.5 BA MLS# 549056

7428 PINE LAKE DR, MILTON

7076 LAKE JOANNE DR, PENSACOLA

$345,000 | 3 BD 2 BA MLS# 564381

$169,900 | 3 BD 2 BA MLS# 564850

4960 HWY 90 #106, PACE FL 32571

Sydnee Johnson Sydnee Johnson Going above and beyond to find your next home.

Going above and beyond to find your next home.

SYDNEE JOHNSON RealtorJOHNSON SYDNEE

22ARealtor Via DeLuna 4475 Bayou Blvd.

Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Pensacola, FL 32503 22A Via DeLuna 4475 Bayou Blvd.

4475 Bayou Blvd. sydneejohnson.cbintouch.com Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Pensacola, FL32503 32503 Pensacola, FL (850) 712-6772 Cell sydneejohnson.cbintouch.com sydnee.johnson@floridamoves.com

(850) 712-6772 Cell Follow me on sydnee.johnson@floridamoves.com Follow me on

©2017 DBA. All Rights Reserved. DBA fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

©2017 DBA. All Rights Reserved. DBA fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

PENS ACO L A M AG A ZIN E

Weddings 2019

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Submit your wedding photos to weddings@ballingerpublishing.com.

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Submissions due by Jan. 17, 2020 Editorial-style shots by your professional photographer are preferred. Please include the names of the bride, groom and photographer.

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We are a non-profit, faith-centered ministry offering food, addiction recovery services, housing, spiritual guidance and more to Escambia County’s most vulnerable and under-resourced residents.

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