East Hill Neighborhood Guide 1st Edition

by LIZ BIGGS

by JENNIFER PASSERETTI

LIFESTYLE LOVE

50 TOP 10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN EAS T HILL it’s hard to choose just ten

53 EAST HILL EATS fave spots to wine & dine

60 RECIPES locally-inspired yums

63 COMMUNITY WELLNESS lingo & local providers

71 SHOP [LOCAL] shop till you drop

78 LET YOUR DAY FLOURISH ideas to stir carefree living

80 SHOPPING THEN & NOW remember when?

81 PLACES OF WORSHIP welcoming religion

HOME + GARDEN

86 HIRING THE RIGHT C ONTRACTOR do’s and dont’s

102 HOME INSURANCE shop-around tips

104 HOME FIRES fire marshal safety tips

105 CAR BURGLARIES preventing break-ins

106 FRONT YARD GARDENS 7 tips to get started

109 EAST HILL BUSINESSES

Barbara Albrecht

Liz Biggs

Annie Bloxson

Bill Chavis

Donna Dickey

Lauren Gund

Norm Haines

Doug Herrick

Beverly Mayo

PUBLISHER

East Hill Neighborhood Association

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Lauren Gund, Helm & Forge

CONTRIBUTORS

Greg Miller

Bob Moulton

Jennifer Passeretti

Sam Prue

Eric Randall

Will Rentschler

John Rickmond

Aaron Ritz

DeeDee Rhodes

PHOTOGRAPHER

Norm Haines

ADVERTISERS

12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group

Advanced Construction Services

Aggressive Plumbing

All Seasons

Angel’s Garden

Beré Jewelers

Bill Chavis, Realtor

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

CDC Woodworking

Celebration’s The Florist

Classic City Catering

Cockrell Metals, LLC

Draper & Kramer Mortgage Corp

DUH for Garden & Home

East Hill Building & Design

East Hill Dog Walking Co.

East Hill Pharmacy

Emerald Coast Granite & Tile

Empathic Practice

First Baptist Church

Grover T’s BBQ

Gulf Breeze Apothecary

Grover Robinson

Steven Shelley

Pam Smith

Blair Stephenson

Christian Wagley

Boyce White

Christian Wagley

Ryan Wiggins

Henry Chiropractic

Hess Realty Group, LLC

Jennifer Passeratti, Realtor

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

John Kizziah State Farm Agency

Kuhn Realty

McIlwain Presbyterian Church

Morette Company

Moza & Company

Pamela Smith, Realtor

Pensacola Roofing & Fencing

Pete Moore Automotive

Picked at Perfection

Pool Designs of Florida

Seville Power Equipment

Southern Pipe & Supply Co.

St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church

St. Mark United Methodist Church

SunFarm Energy

The Daily Squeeze

Wisteria Tavern

Yoga Abode

a letter from the editor

LAUREN GUND

Since moving to Pensacola in 2014, I’ve spent a lot of my time in East Hill. I bought my favorite couch from Duh for Garden & Home and my trusty hurricane generator at Seville Power Equipment. Cactus Flower is one of my husband’s favorites, and the “Wiz” is where I’ve met many of friends, both old and new. My dog isn’t fond of dog parks, but when we enter the gates of Bayview’s dog beach somehow his anxiety instantly melts away. And I often take 12th Avenue at the tree tunnel to my house in lieu of the interstate just because it makes me smile. I think it goes without saying that East Hill is a wonder all its own, adding so much beauty and vibrancy to our beautiful Pensacola home.

Admittedly, I don’t live in East Hill, but that’s only because my husband had already built a house Downtown. I do love my neighbors but will also admit that, as I sit here at Jitterbug, I’m feeling a bit jealous of the pride that emanates from every store, park, and street corner here. That’s ok though because I still get to enjoy everything East Hill has to offer. My friends live here, I frequent many of its businesses, and I have immersed myself in countless neighborhood activities, from association meetings and park cleanups to attending every Bands on the Bayou concert this year.

I’m so proud to be a part of the East Hill Neighborhood Association and help bring to you this first-ever Neighborhood Guide. It’s a way to help us connect and even better enjoy all that this great neighborhood has to offer. In fact, by producing this Guide, I’ve found that there are 17 parks, over 20 restaurants & bars, 16+ stores to shop, and a surprisingly strong health & wellness community too. You can read all about these in this Guide.

The richness of East Hill’s history also abounds. For those who also have history here, I hope you’ll enjoy reminiscing the old A&P Grocery and B&H Store in Liz Biggs’ article “East Hill Then & Now” and taking a glimpse into Dr. Norm Haines’ popular book about “Pensacola’s East Hill: the Making of an Eclectic Neighborhood”. The list of articles goes on, but I don’t want to spoil it too much. Go on and take a read for yourself.

To close, I do want to personally thank all of the businesses that trusted us to advertise in this space and for all of the members that support our Association’s initiatives to better East Hill. If you’re not already a member or want to get more involved in neighborhood happenings, you can learn more about this on the following pages. And finally, thank you for being why East Hill is such a wonderful place to live, work and play, and for making outsiders like me feel so much at home. Cheers, friends!

address by BOYCE WHITE, EHNA PAST PRESIDENT

It has been my pleasure to serve as your President of the East Hill Neighborhood Association (EHNA) for the past year alongside an outstanding Board and bring to you this first-ever Neighborhood Guide. As Mayor Robinson stated at one of our quarterly meetings, I truly believe the East Hill Neighborhood Association is the "best” neighborhood association in Pensacola, which says so much for our efforts to better this amazing city.

greetings from the association thank you

2023 BOARD MEMBERS

Donna Dickey President & BOTB Committee Chair

John Hodgdon President Elect

Amy Farrell Whitwell Secretary & Parks Committee Chair

Jennifer Passeretti Events Committee Chair

Matt Sines

Business Engagement Committee Chair

Greg Miller, Board Member

Beverly Mayo, Board Member

DeeDee Rhodes, Board Member

Pamela Smith, Board Member

Bethany Jenkins, Board Member

2022 RETIREES

Boyce White, Past President

David Del Gallo, Past Treasurer

Steven Shelley, Past Committee Chair

Mike Thomas, Past Webmaster

Sheri Hamilton, Past Board Member

Blair Stephenson, Past Board Member

Aaron Christine, Past Board Member

Over the past year, we’ve accomplished so much, including hosting mayoral and city council forums, three movie nights and three concerts at Bayview Park, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, multiple makers markets, and, of course, producing this guide. As the first of what we plan to develop into an annual publication, this Neighborhood Guide showcases EHNA’s vision for the community, “to be a charming, accessible destination where everyone is engaged, safe, and happy to be.” We hope you will find it to be informative, interactive, and possessing a sense of purpose for fulfilling a fun life lived in East Hill.

In this inaugural edition of the Neighborhood Guide, you will find a variety of content that makes it a handy tool for connecting with the neighborhood. From our favorite spots to eat, shop, and play to reminiscing on times passed, and everything in between, this guide is a true manifestation of our love for this great community.

As I served at the pleasure of the Board as well as our Members that have supported us for over 23 years, we could not have accomplished all the amazing things without all of you. Thank you for the opportunity to support our great neighborhood. May it forever be the best neighborhood to live, work, and play in Pensacola and beyond.

ABOUT

About the EAST HILL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

The East Hill Neighborhood Association began in 2004 when Ms. Colleen McCollugh approached the City of Pensacola about issues in the neighborhood. A neighborhood watch was discussed, but at the time the City was promoting the idea of more welldeveloped community groups. So the East Hill Neighborhood Association was established— one of the first to organize within the city limits. With a hat-tip to the North Hill Neighborhood Association, the longest standing association in the City, EHNA followed suite as Pensacola’s second formal neighborhood association. Collen was the first Board President, and a full Board of Directors was elected to support. EHNA has continuously served the East Hill neighborhood since that time. Members of the Board meet monthly on a volunteer basis. 100% of funds raised go to neighborhood improvement projects and further the Association’s initiatives. Funds come from neighbors, individuals, families, and businesses who join the EHNA for an annual fee. We also conduct fundraisers and rely on event sponsors to further enhance our offerings, with a good example being the Bands on the Bayou Concert Series.

Want to help the Neighborhood Association do even more great things?

Turn the page, and learn how to get involved in support of East Hill!

Best Neighborhood

Voted

Looking to get involved in the East Hill Neighborhood Association? Here are some ideas....

Become a MEMBER

Membership is just $25 per year for residents and $75 for businesses. Membership dues go right back into the neighborhood through park improvements and community events like outdoor movie nights, concerts, craft markets, and more. Residents will also receive an “I love living in East Hill” yard sign, while businesses will gain added exposure to help promote your work.

Sign up and learn more at myeasthill.org

INVO LVED get 1

2 3

Join a COMMITTEE

We are always looking for energetic and creative-minded individuals to bring value to our Committees. Our current committees focus on Events, Parks, and Membership, and we are always looking to expand to even more service areas. If you want to join an existing committee or discuss forming a new one, reach out to the Board! We’d love to hear from you.

Give us a shout at info@myeasthill.org or (850) 529-0699.

Become a VOLUNTEER

Not ready to commit to a committee? We get it! Instead, get your feet wet and see what it’s all about first by becoming a volunteer. We often seek volunteers to help with park improvement projects and community events. This is a great way to enjoy some family time and meet new neighbors. In need of service hours? We’ve got you covered there too!

Be a SPONSOR

In order to bring you the bigger events like Bands on the Bayou and Big Screens on the Bayou, we need more than membership dollars. We need sponsors. This is a great way to get your business in front of thousands of residents! We seek to maximize sponsorship benefits for ultimate exposure and perks in exchange for your support. Our sponsorship packages start at just a few hundred dollars.

Find out more by emailing info@myeasthill.org

Learn about upcoming volunteer opportunities by following us on Facebook. 4

ADDRESS mayoral

Hello East Hill neighbors and businesses,

I am excited to have begun my term as Pensacola’s mayor. I was born at Baptist Hospital in 1984 and was brought home to East Hill. I bought my first home in East Hill. We know that neighborhoods like East Hill, which is near and dear to my heart, are the lifeblood of everything we are and everything we want Pensacola to be. Fueling neighborhood growth, safety and beautification are important parts of our city’s future, and I will make this a priority over the next four years.

I will continue to build on the relationship between the East Hill Neighborhood Association and city administration. This guide is a strong example of how we want to better communicate, increase access to information and enhance your quality of life. Not only improvements within your neighborhood, but with the city.

So let’s see your neighborhood continue to be a shining example of what makes Pensacola such an amazing place to live, and I look forward to seeing you around Bayview Park soon.

Sincerely,

Mayor D.C. Reeves City of Pensacola

NEIGHBOR HOOD

a look at the history, culture, and events that make this neighborhood so great.

THEN & NOW east hill

Reminiscing on all that’s changed (and all that hasn’t) in our beloved neighborhood of East Hill.

article by LIZ BIGGS

An old friend came back to town for a visit, and we planned to meet for lunch at Cactus Flower. She asked, “Now where is that again?” I responded, “You know, in the old TG&Y building—where we used to ride our bikes and buy penny candy.” She immediately knew exactly where it was, no need to program it into Google Maps.

My family moved to East Hill in 1968. I attended kindergarten at Merry Day on Lakeview Avenue, then Sacred Heart School on 12th Avenue. My school bus stop was on Bobe (rhymes with Scooby) Street. Everyone always chuckled when saying that… and they still do!

My summers were spent at the Bayview Community Center 5-15 program. All the cool kids ages 5-15 attended day camp there. Swimming lessons, canoing, gymnastics, dance and pottery were some of the activities offered. I have fond memories of proudly turning my first cartwheel there, learning the can-can, and my favorite—buying Red Hots and Chick O Sticks at the concession stand.

I learned to ride my bike on Escambia Avenue when it was a rocky road—I have the scars to prove it. All the neighborhood kids biked to Bayview Park after school. My first kiss was in a magnolia tree near the tennis courts. My first cigarette was in the storm drains (which are now cemented over and part of the bike trail.) Fast forward 50 years and now I’m attending the fantastic Bands on the Bayou concert series at Bayview Park. What a long, strange trip it’s been...

Sacred Heart School on 12th Avenue has been open for over 100 years

J’s Bakery and Just Plain Putter are two places that remain exactly the same; it’s like walking into a time machine. You know everything is right in the world when there are pink petit fours and smiley face cookies in the pastry shop, as well as countless frames on every wall in John Bell’s frame shop.

Revolver Records used to be a convenience store called B&H. Back in the 70’s, when our parents were hosting Bridge Club and they ran out of cigarettes, they’d send us kids on our bikes to buy more. The man behind the counter knew what brand our parents smoked!

Seville Power Equipment is located in our old gas station, only we never called it a gas station. It was a “service station”. Nobody pumped their own gas. The attendant (my mother always knew his name) checked our oil and gave me a lollipop if I behaved and stayed in the car.

Gulf Coast Kid’s House is in the old A&P Grocery store building. I remember getting in bad trouble there because I snuck some candy into the shopping cart. I also got lost there once (my mother had seven children to keep up with so she didn’t always notice when I wandered off) and was in a panic until I heard the manager summon me over the loudspeaker.

I get my hair done at My Salon Suite on 12th Avenue. It used to be the Post Office. Surprisingly, we went there quite often. That’s how people stayed connected in the 70’s before computers and the internet. We’d see everybody there and I would get so bored while my mother chatted with the whole neighborhood and caught up on all the gossip.

I went to college in Alabama and after having a career in Atlanta for over a decade, my husband and I decided to move back to Pensacola in 1996 to raise our family. Cordova Park, Lavallet, and Inverness were the happening neighborhoods that year. East Hill was kind of run-down. But I fell in love with a roach-infested, mid-century modern fixerupper that we bought for 100K. I kid you not, my mother said she’d never come visit us if we bought it. It was so bad that we couldn’t live in it for six months. When we had our fourth child, we couldn’t fit into it so we added on. I’ve loved every minute of living in East Hill. I know my children’s memories won’t be as old-fogey as mine, but I hope they have fond memories and stories to tell.

J’s Bakery has been serving its delicious morsels since 1946

PROUDneighborhood

How the “I Love Living in East Hill” yard signs came to be.

article by JOHN RICKMON

The I Love Living in East Hill sign campaign was launched in 2014 by me, former Board Member John Rickmon. It was considered a door-to-door effort to promote inclusivity for traditionally marginalized and under-served areas of the neighborhood.

When the initial run of 25 signs were quickly claimed, requests for more started pouring in. The first generation signs were handmade from black vinyl letters, and did not feature the distinctive heart, but rather the word “love”.

By fall of 2014, the signs featuring the heart design went into professional production, and began appearing in all corners of East Hill. Today, they can be spotted anywhere from Jackson to Hayes Streets, and from 9th Avenue to Bayou Texar.

East Hill is truly a space for everyone, and the residents here take great pride in its rich history and diverse culture. We Love Living in East Hill, and we know you will, too.

Want an I Love Living in East Hill sign for your yard? Become a member of the Neighborhood Association for just $25 per year, and we’ll deliver one to your door. Signs are also available at Angel’s Garden on 12th Avenue with membership.

Recognizing beautiful outdoor spaces with the Copper Star Award.

article by STEVEN SHELLEY

The Copper Star is an award dedicated to showcasing neighbors and businesses within East Hill for improvements made to their property, which in turn enhances the beauty of our neighborhood. The Copper Star is administered through the East Hill Neighborhood Association.

Residents of East Hill can nominate their neighbors for outstanding outdoor transformations, which are then voted on by the Board. Up to two recipients can receive the award each month. If we do not receive nominations, we use recommendations from the Board (which, of course, are your neighbors).

If you are nominated, we place a Copper Star in your yard for the month, and a picture of your home is put on our website and Facebook page.

Want to nominate your neighbor for the Copper Star Award? Email the Neighborhood Association at info@ myeasthill.org. You can also visit our website at myeasthill.org to see photos of past recipients.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2023

Events are happening all year in East Hill. Here are some of the annual events going on hosted by the Association and by our wonderful neighbors. It’s always good to check our website (myeasthill.org) and Facebook pages to see if these events have changed or if anything new is added.

article by LIZ BIGGS, BELLA MAGAZINE

The origin story for Bands on the Bayou is rather humble: A birthday party canceled by the COVID19 pandemic. Since indoor events were deemed unsafe, the party was rescheduled as a socially-distanced boat anchor-up, with a band playing on the host’s dock in Bayou Texar. No one expected much. Perhaps a couple of boats. Maybe some folks on kayaks. Some guy on a jet ski. But the pent-up desire to get out of the house and do something made it A Big Thing. Over 50 boats—many full of revelers wanting to get out of the house in the middle of a pandemic— showed up. The hosts thought dozens might show up to the party. Instead, hundreds came to see a local band play on the Bayou Texar dock on a hot latesummer night.

Steven Shelley, a lifelong East Hill resident, thought to himself—this should be a regularly scheduled event for all to enjoy. Bayview Park would be the perfect place for a neighborhood concert series. It’s one of the few places people can walk, bike, golf cart, kayak or boat-up to enjoy music. On behalf of the East Hill Neighborhood Association, Shelley called Mayor Grover Robinson with his idea. Robinson liked

the concept. Shelley formed a committee with Donna Dickey as co-chair. Dickey brought in an amazing team of volunteers and the Bands on the Bayou concert series was born.

Pensacola’s Mayor, Grover Robinson, is a fan. “I’m excited to see the East Hill Neighborhood Association bringing people together for events like Bands on the Bayou, offering an opportunity to enjoy music while appreciating the views at beautiful Bayview Park. It is great to see active neighborhood associations in the City of Pensacola, which are so important to maintaining a thriving community. While it is great to have a thriving downtown, it’s important to have opportunities to come together in all areas of our incredible city, including the East Hill neighborhood. The City of Pensacola is very happy to be a partner in this series to enhance the quality of life in our community,” said Robinson.

The inaugural Bands on the Bayou concert in July 2021 featured local rockers “DLP” (Doctors, Lawyers & Politicians). The concert wasn’t heavily advertised but still drew a crowd of over 500 people. Efforts were ramped up in 2022 to promote the events more widely,

including on social media, radio, and good old-fashioned yard signs. Thousands showed up to each of the three 2022 concerts, which featured local singer-songwriter Tyler Mac Band (April 16), Nashville artist Abby Kasch Band (July 30), and of course we proudly brought back local legends DLP Rock Band once again (October 1).

Attendees came by car, by bike, by golf cart, on foot—and, yes, by boat to enjoy the music and familyfriendly fun, including vendor tents, games, and food, with vendors including Stacked Racks BBQ, Lone Star Kitchen, Two Birds Street Food, SUT SHI, Alene’s BBQ & Grill, Jordan Valley, LE DOUGH, Pops of Pensacola, Le Petit Pecan, and Whim Cotton Candy.

Bands on the Bayou is now a nonprofit with the purpose: “To bring the East Hill residents together and support local nonprofit organizations through a community-centric concert series.” Although the concerts are free to the public, thanks to sponsorships and donations, money is raised for local charities. The first event in July 2021 raised over $4000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters, O. J.

Semmes Elementary School, and a scholarship fund for children to attend a city camp at Bayview Park.

In 2022, a total of six nonprofit organizations, two for each concert, became recipients of the proceeds. A total of $24,000 was raised, evenly distributed to these local nonprofits:

• Environmental/April 16/Earth Day Celebration: Recipients included Emerald Coast Keepers and Ocean Hour

• Childhood Development/July

30/Back to School Edition: Gulf Coast Kid’s House and O.J. Semmes Elementary School

• Art, Music and Culture/October

1/Arts Extravaganza: PenArts and Pensacola Little Theatre

Charity nominations, donation information, and sponsorship perks are available online at bandsonthebayou.com. To get the ball rolling for 2023, Adam Medley, owner of East Hill Automotive Center and Seville Power Equipment in East Hill, has already stepped up to the plate to be the Series Sponsor yet again. But there are plenty of other sponsorship slots available!

JULY 22 Ben Loftin & Family

To learn more about the event details, sponsorship opportunities, and nonprofit beneficiaries, visit our website at: bandsonthebayou.com

John Hart & The Prince Brothers

Sleigh Ride ALL VEHICLE EAST HILL

article by RYAN WIGGINS

One of the favorite holiday traditions in East Hill is the annual All Vehicle East Hill Sleigh Ride, hosted by The Wiggins Family to raise money for the local non-profit organization, Gulf Coast Kid’s House.

Neighbors and friends are invited to decorate their golf carts, cars, trailered boats, wagons, trailers, dog leashes, scooters, bikes, and more for a fun nighttime holiday processional through the neighborhood.

The event is free and open to everyone, though participants and spectators are encouraged to donate to the Gulf Coast Kid’s House through the event’s GoFundMe page. It also relies on local sponsors to help cover some minor costs such as hiring of police to help with the parade route.

Those participating in the processional must light themselves or their vehicles (this is for fun but also for safety since some of the streets are quite dark) and must be able to maintain a speed of 5 mph.

The parade, which starts at 5:30pm on a midDecember Saturday and lasts about an hour, begins at the Bayview Community Center. From there it winds through the East Hill neighborhood for the many spectators to enjoy. Check out the parade route to pick out the best spot for your family and friends.

If you are interested in participating or sponsoring, or simply wish to learn more about this event, please reach out to Ryan Wiggins at EastHillSleighRide@gmail.com.

Sleigh Ride

PARADE ROUTE

1

1. Start at Bayview Park, head north on 20th Ave.

2

2. Right on Mallory St.

3. Left on Whaley Ave.

4. Right on Osceola Blvd., merge onto Yates Ave.

5. Left on Blackshear Ave.

3 4 5

6. Left on 18th Ave.

7. Right on Lakeview Ave.

8. U-Turn at 13th Ave.

9. Right on 18th Ave.

6 7 8 9 10

10. Left on Blount St., finish at Bayview Park

NEIGHBORcoming to know the

article by DR. NORM HAINES

While researching my book on the history of East Hill, I asked my friend, Charles Booher, who grew up there among the stately oaks which dominate the neighborhood, to give me a tour. Charlie is in his seventies, balding, always wearing a hat and an inquisitive look along with a knowing grin but whose physique bespeaks his early days as an athlete and his long career as a coach. "I used to play ball here," he recalled pointing to a grassy park where a young woman was being pulled along by her hyperactive pet and several small children were climbing over one of East Hill's ubiquitous jungle gyms. "See that giant oak whose trunk split off near the base?" The look in his eyes told me he had been transported back in time. "We used to place all our sports equipment in the V of that tree while we played."

It was March 2019 when my wife, Susan, and I moved to East Hill. My experience with Charlie was not unique. Many of my native Pensacola friends would lapse into pleasant reminisces upon learning that we had moved into their old neighborhood. And "old" is the operative word when it comes to Pensacola. East Hill, or New City as it was called then, was laid out in 1835, a decade before Florida was even a state.

Stretching for 2.7 miles south to north and 1.4 miles east to west, one can still visually trace this large tract's development as it evolved decade by decade. One hundred and forty year-old ornate Queen Anne Victorian houses are scattered among shotgun and Gulf Coast cottages, as they morph into craftsman bungalows and revival houses of every style. In the northern portion smaller houses of the forties and fifties and ranch homes of the fifties and sixties dominate the landscape, while along Bayou Texar ninety-yearold mansions coexist with the new millennium's expensive architectural wonders.

Charlie stopped the car at the corner of Gadsden and 8th Avenue and stared longingly at a recently remodeled one-story brick building. "That was Carl's Bakery. Everybody who grew up in Pensacola knew about Carl's Bakery," he boasted as if it were his own. Carl Burmeister opened his bakery at that location in 1928 and operated it day and night seven days a week until his death in 1964. "I can still smell that place and taste those doughnuts," Charlie said as we drove away.

HOOD

There may be other neighborhoods like East Hill somewhere but not in Pensacola. It is neither black nor white but both without boundaries. It is neither rich nor poor but both. Blue-collar workers live next to professionals, and elderly residents who were born there eight decades ago share their street with young millennials, and both proudly place "I Love Living In East Hill" signs in their yards.

There is a distinct artistic bent to the neighborhood, maybe a lingering residual of the early craftsmen and artisans who first moved there to help build Pensacola. Folks who live in East Hill, recognizing the gift Nature has given them, are particularly protective of those aging live oaks and giant southern magnolias that line their streets. They plant gardens to provide habitats for creatures large and small. They avoid pesticides to protect the bees, and one can hear the crow of roosters and the clucking of chickens from the coops scattered about. Feral cats prowl the bushes putting all rodents on their menus.

Charlie turned down a street and slowed the car while pointing out an older somewhat rundown home. "That old place is still standing," he remarked. "We used to think the house was haunted and would never go near it," he chuckled. I instantly flashed to an image of Scout, Jem and Dill walking past Boo Radley's house. I imagined that on a night with a cloud covered moon those giant oaks could look pretty menacing.

Four hours passed quickly, then Charlie dropped me off at my house. I departed feeling a bit sad that I had not grown up in East Hill, but realized that Susan and I had found the place we were meant to be. My book, Pensacola’s East Hill: The Making Of An Eclectic Neighborhood, is my homage to this wonderful old historic place. And Charlie, thanks for the ride.

EAST HILL: THE MAKING OF AN ECLECTIC NEIGHBORHOOD

Dr. Norm Haine’s Book, East Hill: The Making of an Eclectic Neighborhood, is a beautiful showcase of the history and electic nature of our beloved area. From Spanish land grants to a neighborhood on the move - learn how it all came about and the people who were the driving force. It is the perfect book for your coffee table or to gift a friend or family member that loves learning about East Hill. This heavily-illustrated publication is 140 pages of wonder that sells for $40 each.

Pick up your copy by emailing Dr. Haines at normhaines@cox.net or call 850-982-2388.

HOSPITALhistory

article by AARON RITZ

Pensacola Hospital, now known as the historic Sacred Heart Hospital, opened in September of 1915 as the first Catholic hospital in Florida. The Daughters of Charity, a religious order dating back to 1633, invested over $400,000 into building and opening this facility. Evans Brothers Construction of Birmingham, Alabama took one year to build this late Gothic Revival building for the Daughters to provide the residents of Pensacola with better health care. The structure is both a medical and architectural landmark.

Before this hospital, Pensacola had only a scattering of local clinics in converted houses, and doctors would send patients with serious cases as far away as New Orleans for more complicated procedures. With this facility, Pensacola had the first surgical, radiological, bacterial, and therapeutic facilities in Florida.

Following the Daughters of Charity motto of "service to all", the third level of the east wing was dedicated entirely to the Creole and Colored population so that they could also receive hospital care. A.O. Von Herbulis, a native of Austria who immigrated to the United States, designed the hospital. Using the vocabulary of English Gothic architecture, with elements such as the Tudor arches on the ends, the stonework around the front entrance, and the embattlement at the parapet, Von Herbulis created a lasting monument to health care.

HISTORY OF SACRED HEART HOSPITAL

In 1948, following the original desire of Mother Margaret O'Keefe, Pensacola Hospital's name changed to Sacred Heart Hospital of Pensacola. In 1965, the hospital moved its operations to North Ninth Avenue. After the hospital left, a private school for Liberal Arts used the building from 1969 through 1978, but lack of maintenance forced the school to abandon the building. In 1980, Tower East Group, Inc. purchased the property to preserve the historic hospital for the future.

The public areas are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, for touring. The building has several businesses and private office occupants as well. While you are visiting, make sure to sign the visitor register in the front office and let them know how you feel about historic preservation.

Tower East Group, Inc., a private enterprise owned by partners B. Neal Armstrong and Stephen F. Ritz, has

been restoring and renovating the landmark since March of 1980. They succeeded in listing the site on the National Register of Historic Places on February 16, 1982. The owners, their families and friends, have dedicated many hours of their talents to return this local landmark to the people of Pensacola as a place to learn, shop, dine, and work.

Structurally, the building has received very few alterations in its history. The striking exterior stonework retains its Gothic appearance to this day, and other original architectural details, such as the elaborate oak entrance doors, remain. The enduring presence of this building in Pensacola honors the rich experiences of the people of the community who have created and shared the history of the original Sacred Heart Hospital. Please ask about the building in the front office, located at the main entrance on Twelfth Avenue.

CITY COUNCIL meet your

Pensacola (and most cities) are sectioned off into chunks of space, here called districts, and residents from each piece elect a representative, known as a council member. These representatives listen to their constituents and bring their concerns, questions, and demands to the city.

The City of Pensacola is divided into seven districts to be exact, each with its unique set of challenges and needs. Seven elected council members, each representing a single district, are at the heart of this form of representative government known as a city council. Council members act as the legislative branch of the city government, as well as its policymaking body. Our council also looks to the city’s goals, major projects, and infrastructure improvements ranging from community growth and land use to finances and strategic planning.

So now that you understand what our City Council does, it’s important to know how to contact them in a time of need. Your City Council representative is here to serve you. But before making that phone call or sending that lengthy email, make sure you do your homework and plan ahead so your needs are best received.

Do Your Research: Spend time learning through the city’s website and news media to see where people stand on the issue and whether it’s already being addressed. Seek first to understand, then to be understood!

Introduce Yourself: Ask for an introductory meeting. Contact their office and ask to come in to meet with them. Make some small talk! Tell them about yourself and your priorities and ask them about theirs.

Engage with Them: Continually develop your relationship. Stay in touch on an on-going basis. Help develop solutions when possible rather than only contacting them when you are opposed to something. Consider attending council meetings or even volunteering on a committee.

Find your district and learn more about your representative on the next page!

Be A Resource: Know your issue. When you are advocating for or against a change, back up your argument with facts and data. Bring a one pager (no more than one page!) to summarize your points and leave it with them.

Say Thank You: Public service is hard. And it’s often thankless. Even if you find yourself on the other side of an issue this time, you might be on the same side next time (and you might see your local elected official in the grocery store or at your kid’s ballgame!) Keep an open line of communication for next time.

CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT MAP

DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES

East Hill spans Districts 4, 5, and 6. Learn more about who represents your neighborhood interests in our local government and know how to reach them when you need support.

Jared

jmoore@cityofpensacola.com

850-418-2269

In November 2018, Jared Moore was elected to represent District 4. He has also served as Council Vice President (2019) and later as Council President (2020-2021). He has previously served on the Pensacola Zoning Board of Adjustments and Planning Board.

Jared is a lifelong Pensacola resident who proudly works alongside his family for their local small business, J&M Valve. Jared earned his undergraduate degree from Samford University and masters degree from the University of West Florida. He resides in Cordova Park with his wife and four children.

Jared is an avid cyclist, runner, and swimmer, recognized as an All-American athlete by the USA Triathlon association and Ironman organization. Jared is also an active member of Olive Baptist Church.

tbroughton@cityofpensacola.com

850-903-2051

Elected in 2020, Teniadé Broughton is the council member for District 5 and a longtime resident of Pensacola’s Woodland Heights neighborhood.

Teniadé is a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, the University of West Florida, and Florida A&M University. Deeply active in the community, Teniadé is a seventh-generation Pensacolian and member of Allen Chapel AME Church, the president of the John Sunday Society, chairperson of the Escambia County Equal Justice Initiative, and a member of the Gallery Night Pensacola Board, Pensacola Bicentennial Celebration Committee, Junior League of Pensacola, and JUST Pensacola.

Teniadé has one son who currently serves on active duty in the United States Air Force.

Allison

apatton@cityofpensacola.com

850-977-3892

Allison Patton was elected in November 2022 as the City Council Representative for District 6. She is serving because she wants our children to be able to call Pensacola home for life and is committed to making Pensacola a place of opportunity for all residents.

Allison brings expertise in business, finance, and legal matters to Pensacola City government. When she retired in 2020, she was a Managing Director and Head of Retail Litigation for Morgan Stanley. She and her husband Bruce raised their four children in East Hill and now enjoy living downtown. Over the years, Allison has given back to her community through the Pensacola Community Music School, IMPACT 100, and as Subcommittee Co-Chair of the Homeless Reduction Task Force.

District 6

Patton

District 5 Teniadé Broughton

District 4

Moore

DC9'.I C Ar ;� of p�\I A I L. I , Ur-\'-- � Pi;R;;i- • L. r-\ FLORIDA'S FIRST & FUTURE

Office of the Mayor

Dear residents of East Hill,

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to include a message in your new neighborhood guide, and for all you do to keep your neighborhood connected and engaged with the City of Pensacola.

strongly believe that active neighborhood associations are vital to maintaining and fostering a thriving community, because each neighborhood plays such an important role in moving our city forward. Pensacola is fortunate to have engaged neighborhoods like East Hill who truly care about the success of not only your neighborhood, but our entire city.

Our goal as a city is always to provide the highest quality of life for our residents, and you help make that possible. We have an incredible team of dedicated employees at the City of Pensacola who work hard every day to serve our residents, whether it's cleaning and maintaining our 93 parks and greenspaces, providing efficient sanitation services, adding sidewalks and repaving streets, or providing police and fire services to keep our community safe. However, we also rely on residents and neighborhood associations like you to communicate your priorities and needs to the city so we can work together to meet those needs.

also believe organizations like CNAAP are incredibly important to our city, because they help bring neighborhoods together to tell us how the city can work with residents to address your concerns, provide the city services that are most essential to you, and enhance our overall quality of life.

What makes Pensacola truly special is the people who work together every day to make our community better, and I can't thank you enough for caring about your city enough to be engaged citizens and an engaged neighborhood.

I am grateful and honored to serve as your Mayor, and I look forward to seeing what's in store for the East Hill neighborhood and all of Pensacola as our city continues to grow and thrive.

Grover C. Robinson, IV Mayor

222 West Main Street Pensacola, Florida 32502 www.c it yo fpensacola.com

learn about the environment and gather ideas for enjoying the fresh air.

EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS

GO OUTSIDE

parks + outdoor fun

There are 17+ beautiful parks in our neighborhood, each thoughtfully designed to enhance the quality of life of the citizens and visitors that come to enjoy. With a nod to the rich history of East Hill, here’s a look at the origin and features of our beautiful parks, with many dating back to the 1800’s.

1. Andalusia Square // 1501 E. Cervantes Street

Andalusia Square is one of the city’s oldest squares, appearing on a map from 1884. This historical map of Pensacola’s “New City” was produced by a state surveyor from Florida named W.F. Lee and reviewed by W.H. Davison, Pensacola’s local city surveyor during this time. A concrete marker notes a tree that was planted in honor of Miss Nell Burrow. Miss Burrow was president of the Pensacola Federation of Garden Clubs from 1931 – 1933. This park features a gazebo, playground, and walking path.

2. Bayview Park // 2001 E. Lloyd Street

Bayview Park is the largest passive recreational park in the city limits at 29 acres. It was the site of the City’s first Independence Day celebration. At one time, it was a popular swimming hole, boasting a large diving tower into Bayou Texar. In April 1910 the Pensacola Playground Committee began soliciting for donations to build a bathhouse and personnel facilities. The same year, the park began hosting concerts, free to the public. The following year the director of playgrounds requested the hiring of a woman “playground” worker because more women were using the bathhouse than men. A zoo, stables, and seal pens were installed over the course of

Bayview’s first decade near where the present-day tennis courts are located. A monument of note is the Bayview Cross, which was erected in 1941 by the Pensacola Junior Chamber of Commerce. Bayview Park features a large variety of activities, including a boat launch, tennis courts, dog parks, community center, playground equipment, covered picnic area with grills, and winding trails throughout the property. It is also the location of a number community events, including the East Hill Neighborhood Association’s Bands on the Bayou Concert Series.

3. Catalonia Square // 2300 N. 12th Avenue

Catalonia Square is one of the city’s oldest squares, appearing on a map from 1884. This 2.4 acres of public space features two baseball fields, playground, and open playing field.

4. Cordova Square // 1101 N. 12th Avenue

Also appearing on a map from 1884, this park is one of few that offer ample parking. There’s a large open field with soccer goals along with a playground. The gazebo features signage signifying that it was built by the East Hill Neighborhood Association. The gazebo was built in honor of Colleen McDonough, founding member of the neighborhood association.

article by LAUREN GUND

5. Estramadura Square // 1500 E. Lakeview Avenue

This 2.4-acre park is named for a Spanish region bordering Portugal. Here you will find plenty of open space, soccer goals, and a playground to enjoy.

6. Granada Square // 1001 E. Cervantes Street

Located on the north side of Cervantes near Publix, Granada Square is yet another historical park, first appearing on a map from 1884. The park includes a playground with swings, gazebo, and ample parking.

7. Granada Subdivision // 103 Pineda Avenue

This small park is named for the subdivision in which it is located, with a playground and open area tucked between houses.

8. H.K. Matthews Park // 3100 N. 12th Avenue

This park was formerly known as Esperanza Park, changing names in 2006. Reverend Hawthorne Konrad (H.K.) Matthews is an African-American minister who was active during the Civil Rights Movement in the Pensacola area. Matthews became involved with the local NAACP and Southern Christian Leadership Conference chapters during the Civil Rights Movement. As president of the Pensacola Council of Ministers, Matthews led sit-in protests that successfully integrated Palafox Street lunch counters. He also helped the successful efforts to get blacks hired at such businesses as Sacred Heart Hospital, Southern Bell Telephone Company and West Pensacola Bank. Here you’ll find a basketball court, playground, and gazebo along with amble parking and open space.

9. Lamancha Square // 1400 E. Cross Street

Lamancha Square is one of the city’s oldest squares, having been laid out and appearing on maps from the 1800s. Its 2.4 acres showcases a playground with swings, walking path, and lovely landscaping.

10. Lions Park // 1201 E. LaRua Street

Lions Park was originally established under the name of Florida Square in 1909. The park’s name was later changed in 1946 to Lions Club Park after The Pensacola Lions Club, a local branch of the Lions International Service Organization. The park began hosting softball while still under the name of Florida Square in the early 1940s. The park was then renovated under the new name around April 1946. The renovation included the installation of an electronic scoreboard, new lights, and a public address system. Still best known for its wellmaintained baseball fields, Lions Park is home to the Kaboom Kickball League among other city and private sports programs. The stadium seating makes for a fun spectator sport most days, while there is also a playground to enjoy.

11. Malaga Square // 1000 E. Blount Street

One of the oldest squares in Pensacola, Malaga Square dates back to the 1800s. This park features a basketball court and playground with swings along with a walking path around the square.

12. Miraflores Park // 1601 E. LaRua Street

A unique feature of this park is the cottage-style scout building that stands on the southern edge. It was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) for the Boy Scouts of America in 1934, using bricks made from local clay made by the McMillan Brick Company. The building, once named after the Elebash family of Pensacola, has a plaque in memoriam of two eagle scouts – Jack Tilford and Jimmy Jerauld. At its inception as a public space around the turn of the century, the park was named Havana Square. It was later renamed in 1965, when Pensacola adopted Miraflores, Peru as its sister city, to commemorate this relationship. Along with the scout building, gazebo, playground, and walking trail is a monument and bronze bust of poet Ricardo Palma, a native Peruvian and national icon, which was unveiled as a gift to the Mayor of Miraflores during the renaming ceremony.

13. Operto Square // 1600 E. Blount Street

Operto Square is yet another one of the city’s oldest squares, appearing on a map from 1884. This park features a basketball court, workout area, and playground with swings.

14. Rev. A.L. Durant Park // Barcia & 9th Avenue

This park was formerly known as Barcia Park. The name was changed to honor Dr. Alvin L. Durant, who has been the pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church for over 60 years.

15. Semmes Park // 1380 E. Texar Drive

This park is named for Oliver J. Semmes, Jr., who with an impressive background of training and experience in the field of civil engineering, was in 1947 appointed as city manager for the City of Pensacola. This park adjoins O.J. Semmes Elementary School, and at nearly 2 acres features a new playground with rock climbing wall, basketball court, and gazebo.

16. Toledo Square // 1700 E. Gonzalez Street

Toledo Square also appears on a map from 1884. Here you’ll find a large playground with swings, covered picnic area, and walking paths.

17. Zamora Square // 1800 E. Bobe Street

Zamora Square is one of the city’s oldest squares, having been laid out and appearing on maps from the 1800’s. It has a little something for everyone, including a baseball field, basketball court, walking paths, and playground.

Zamora Park 1957

1. Andalusia Square

2. Bayview Park

3. Catalonia Square

4. Cordova Square

5. Estramadura Square

6. Granada Square

8. H.K. Matthews Park

9. Lamancha Square

10. Lions Park

11. Malaga Square

12. Miraflores Park

13. Operto Square

14. Rev. A.L. Durant Park

15. Semmes Park

16. Toledo Square

17. Zamora Square

TREASURE HUNT learn to geocache

article by LAUREN GUND

Have you ever daydreamed about going on a hunt for a hidden treasure? Today, people around the world are doing just that through geocaching. Geocachers seek out treasures hidden by other players while exploring interesting locations.

At its most basic level, geocaching is a game where players use mobile devices, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and direction-finding techniques to track down a container, or “cache”. Caches may contain small trinkets or a logbook for players to sign to mark their find. Once signed, the cache is returned to the original spot. There are a number of geocache locations around East Hill, including over a dozen managed by the East Hill Neighborhood Association. But before you start hunting, it’s important to know the rules and lingo of a true geocacher.

THE RULES

If you plan on joining in on the adventure, make sure to follow these rules to keep the game fun and safe for everyone:

1. Watch out for muggles

Yes, you are right...they are the same type of muggles from Harry Potter. A non-geocacher is considered a muggle, similar to nonwizards being called muggles. Even though all the items are placed in legal places, with no context, it looks odd if you are searching in a tree or a bush to someone passing by.

2. In order to take, you must leave something

Depending on the size of the cache, they sometimes have a reward or treasure in them. You can only take something from the cache if you can exchange it with another item of equal value. Also, people of all ages are playing, so make sure what you leave is family-friendly. Part of the fun is seeing what other people leave behind. Small trinkets and coins are popular.

3. Check the logbook

It is common for caches to have a logbook with them. Logbooks are records of everyone who has found the cache beforehand. If the cache is too small for exchanging items, it will just have a logbook, while bigger ones typically have both. When you find a cache, don’t forget to log yourself being there! It’s always fun to see if you know anyone when reading it.

4. Report damages and thefts

If you notice anything about the cache is damaged or any of the contents inside are gone, make sure to report it back to the app. This will alert the owner, who can replace or fix the cache.

5. Don't move the caches

Since each geocache is logged by its coordinates, make sure you keep it in the same place it was found. If you think the container is in the wrong spot, email the owner directly or make a comment on the log to notify the owner. It might be tempting to hide the cache in a new place, but it's important to remember these aren't for taking. If you think of a better place, try hiding one yourself!

THE LINGO

BYOP: "Bring Your Own Pen/Pencil". An acronym often used by geocache owners to communicate to other geocachers that you will need to bring your writing utensil in order to sign the cache logbook.

Cache: A shortened version of the word geocache.

Cacher: Also known as Geocacher. One who participates in geocaching.

CITO: "Cache In Trash Out" is an ongoing environmental initiative supported by the worldwide geocaching community. Since 2002, geocachers have been dedicated to cleaning up parks and other cachefriendly places around the world.

Coordinates: A pair of numbers (latitude and longitude) that pinpoint an exact position, or waypoint, on the Earth.

Difficulty and Terrain (or D/T): Geocaches are rated in two categories, each designated on a 5-point scale (in half-point increments). Difficulty relates to the mental challenge of finding a geocache, while Terrain describes the physical environment. The higher the number, the more difficult.

DNF: "Did Not Find". An acronym used by geocachers to state that they did not find a cache.

FTF: "First to Find". An acronym written by geocachers in physical cache logbooks or online when logging cache finds to denote being the first to find a new geocache.

Logbook: A physical record of everyone who has found a geocache. Usually made of paper, logbooks come in many different sizes, shapes, and formats.

Micro: The smallest geocache size. Micros are about the size of a film canister, and sometimes smaller.

Muggle: A non-geocacher. Based on "Muggle" from the Harry Potter series, which is a non-magical person.

Multi-Cache: A Multi-Cache involves two or more locations. The final location is a physical container.

THE BFA citizen science

article by BARBARA ALBRECHT, BFA PRESIDENT

History

The Bream Fishermen Association (BFA) is a highly respected citizen science organization which has advocated for environmental stewardship for over 50 years. Loosely organized in the mid1960s by locals who were concerned about the deterioration of regional water quality, the BFA was officially chartered as a non-profit organization in January 1970. That same year, the United States Environmental Protection Agency was created as an outgrowth of the burgeoning environmental movement. The BFA was led for 40+ years by Charles A. Lowery, a Colonel in the Army National Guard Signal Corps. BFA founding members traveled to Tallahassee to inform the governor and elected officials that 200 miles to the west, the bays and bayous were dying. They reported fish kills in Escambia Bay which covered square miles. These efforts contributed to the establishment of the Department of Pollution Prevention in the early 1970s. That department eventually morphed into the Department of Environmental Regulation (DER), and is now the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Working with the state environmental agency, the BFA developed a scientific program of water quality monitoring. The members of the BFA understood the importance of scientific methodology in water sampling and the need for quality data and proper collection techniques, so data could be used to identify environmental trends during the 1970s and 80s. At that time, the BFA water sampling program included 93 quarterly stations sampled every three months for 18 parameters. This remarkable program was conducted by volunteers. BFA water quality monitoring continues despite a break during the pandemic, although the number of sites sampled and conditions monitored have been reduced. Over 50 years of water quality data

generated by BFA volunteers is available to everyone on a STORET website. BFA data provides information on status or “baseline” conditions which is instrumental in protecting our area's natural resources by allowing deviations to be recognized and addressed.

The BFA has a long-standing presence in the East Hill neighborhood. The BFA became guardians of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Boy Scout Administration building in Miraflores Park (1615 East LaRua St) in the early 1970s when the building had fallen to ruin. The BFA effected critical repairs, held meetings there, and shared the space with other groups including the Fly Fishers of NW Florida and the Speckled Trout Club. In 2019, Mayor Robinson and Mary Gutierrez of Earth Ethics succeeded in listing the “BFA building” on the National Register for Historic Buildings which may provide funding and facilitate restoration.

Current Concerns

Today, more than 50 years after the US Congress enacted the Clean Water Act, our nation's waters are in much better condition than when BFA was founded. Progress has been made in regulating industrial discharges and more is possible.

Stewardship of natural resources and awareness of how we all can make a difference is more important than ever to address current issues. No longer do we experience fish kills covering acres or miles or unregulated pollutants entering our rivers and estuaries; instead, threats to water quality come from stormwater runoff, sedimentation, unsustainable development, and habitat fragmentation and alteration.

Everyone can help, whether we plant native vegetation (which requires less water), limit use of chemicals on our yards, or maintain our vehicles to avoid contaminants like brake fluids entering natural waters from precipitation washing off roads and other impervious surfaces. Awareness is key to understanding how little things we do make a big difference.

Projects and Partnerships

In 2016-17, the BFA was awarded a grant from Patagonia Action Works to study sedimentation and runoff from an FDOT Interstate Expansion Project (I-10 from Escambia Bay to Avalon Blvd) into Indian Bayou in Santa Rosa County.

Then in 2018, BFA was invited to partner with the newly established Pensacola Bay Oyster Farm for Project Oyster Pensacola (POP). We invited the

public and interested waterfront owners to allow us to place 75 baby oysters in cages and hang them off their docks in various areas of the Pensacola Bay system. We assembled a team of students and volunteers who helped us monitor oyster survival, growth, weight, and recruitment, over an 18-month period. We hope to repeat this citizen research project, and the full report is available on BFA’s website.

In 2020, City of Pensacola Councilwoman Ann Hill inquired about the overall water quality condition at Bruce Beach in downtown Pensacola. Was it safe for recreation, to support the City of Pensacola’s Revitalization Plan? In partnership with University of West Florida’s (UWF) Center for Environmental Diagnostics & Bioremediation, BFA collected water samples weekly from three sites at Bruce Beach for over a year. We found high bacteria loads entering Washerwoman Creek during rain events, and expanded the project scope and received funding to sample stormwater drains in the area over 13 weeks (PNJ Aug 1 article-sewage pollution at Bruce Beach). Results of this study highlight a common issue with older communities, namely aged infrastructure. Areas for further investigation were identified, and results also indicate groundwater infiltration appears to be the conveyance into stormwater, which implies that sewage is leaking into the high groundwater table. For the full report, visit the BFA website at the link below.

The BFA is partnering with the newly established Pensacola & Perdido Bay Estuary Program (PPBEP) by providing historic water quality data and along with the UWF, sampling upper reaches of streams in these watersheds to fill in data gaps. The BFA has shared

THE BFA

goals and is committed to working with the PPBEP which has released its Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan for public review (ppbep.org).

The BFA and the Satori Foundation applied for and won an Impact 100 Grant in 2021. The grant will be used to purchase a large van for the BFA to be utilized as a mobile water quality lab, and a boat and virtual reality headsets for Satori. Together, BFA and Satori will bring the coast to the kids who live in rural communities in upper Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. In partnership with the school boards of these counties and the principals and various science teachers, we will highlight the connection of our upper watersheds to our creeks, rivers, bays and bayous by visiting elementary and middle schools, and then inviting these same kids to visit the coast and learn about the lower watersheds.

Poised for the Future

I accepted the position of BFA President in 2010, in part because the Board Members had taken such an interest in educating me about our beautiful northwest Florida estuaries, bays and creeks, and the importance of stewardship in the entire watershed. The BFA founders’ commitment remains strong as our vision expands to meet the challenges of our times. Natural areas draw people to live here and enjoy outdoor recreation, our beaches and local waters have something for everyone to enjoy and are part of our culture. The BFA supports education to promote awareness of sustainable development – we can develop the community while maintaining a healthy natural environment which is the basis for our own health and well-being.

Please visit the BFA website at to learn more about its history, projects, and mission: breamfishermen.org

Want a book? Head to a fairy-tale cottage or a converted newspaper dispenser down the street. These are just two of over a dozen Little Free Libraries in East Hill.

Unlike traditional libraries, these typically small structures aren’t buildings where people check out books from a librarian. No membership card is required here.

“A Little Free Library is a box full of books that, when you find one, you can take a book home with you,” explains DeeDee Rhodes, an East Hill resident. “Or if you have a book to share, you can leave it for someone else to read.”

Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009. Its mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries. East Hill residents share in this mission and have embraced the idea of improving community literacy and giving people of all ages access to a variety of reading material.

Little Free Libraries are everywhere: outside homes, inside recreational centers, beside coffee shops. East Hill proudly boasts many of these tiny libraries —likely even more than you’ll see on this map. They are as eclectic as the neighborhood itself and equally fun for all ages. They’ve sparked a book-sharing revolution, if you will.

free little libraries

article by LAUREN GUND

Today, those who want to build one can download free instructions from the Little Free Library website (littlefreelibrary.org). Some, however, have let their imaginations run wild, in true East Hill style. And if you decide its high-time to add one to your front yard, make sure to register it on the Little Free Library’s website or mobile app for the rest of us to find and enjoy.

For more local information, you may also check out the Pensacola Little Free Library page on Facebook!

BAYOU TEXAR foundation

In the 1960s, homebuilding proliferated around Bayou Texar. Red clay streamed from construction sites into the bayou, smothering sea grass and ruining the sea life "nurseries" as it settled like a blanket on the bottom of the bayou. Additionally, the stormwater volume increased as the city of Pensacola grew. This stormwater was delivered straight into Bayou Texar via 65 stormwater outfalls carrying debris of all sorts—garbage, animal feces, dirt, and anything else that happened to wash into the streets. It was obvious to some that this was causing great harm to the bayou as it was functioning as a giant stormwater pond. This threatened the sea life and the quality of the water in our wonderful waterway, a site long used for recreational activities.

So in the 1970s, Dr. Phil Payne and a group of other concerned citizens formed the Bayou Texar Foundation to combat the situation. They addressed City Hall about the street materials flowing

article by BLAIR STEPHENSON

unfettered into the bayou and worked to have the City deal with the problem. The Bayou Texar Foundation became a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in January 1977, and in May of 1988 it was incorporated by the State of Florida. Largely alone for about 25 years, Dr. Payne sought to better the bayou by petitioning City Hall to budget for more sweepers and more street sweeping.

As time passed, the Bayou Texar membership and officers decided it needed fresh leaders to take charge of the organization. New officers were elected with Walter Biggs and Marty Donovan as co-presidents; the organization grew, and Dr. Payne served with us and taught us (until his untimely death in 2005). After citizens packed City Hall to standing room only, with our two co-presidents delivering a barrage of information, the City Council acquiesced to having an in-depth study performed by a company, Dames and Moore. The results of that study, known as the Carpenter's Creek/ Bayou Texar Watershed & Stormwater Management Assessment, were formally presented to the City Council on May 8, 2000.

This study delivered a full assessment of the situation with a strategy for and inclusion of cost details for a program to remediate the situations that existed. The Council unanimously accepted the final report and directed the City staff to prepare recommendations for implementing the-management program and integrating the specific project elements into the City’s budget.

The Bayou Texar Foundation’s officers rotated out, while new but experienced members stepped up. Blair Stephenson, President, and Eleanor Godwin, Secretary, addressed the City Council on August 23, 2001, strongly encouraging they implement a Stormwater Utility Fee, which would be necessary to fund the projects outlined in the Dames and Moore Stormwater Management Assessment. The-vote passed.

The Stormwater Utility Fee has been in place now for 21 years and has produced immensely positive results. In fact, just one year after the Stormwater Utility Fee was approved, the City revealed these capital improvements for 2002:

• East Hill Stormwater Enhancements ($2.25M)

• Seville Dr. Stormwater Outfall ($0.75M)

• 16th and 17th Ave. at Texar, Retrofit $0.50M)

• Ash Dr. Stormwater Vaults ($0.53M)

• Palafox Industrial Park ($0.81M)

• Guillemard St. Storm Sewer Reconst. ($0.75M)

• Bayou Texar Entrance Channel ($0.20M)

• Long Hollow Pond (Phase 1) ($0.12M)

• 12th Ave & Cross St Pump Station ($0.175M)

• Carpenters Creek Needs Assessment ($0.15M)

• F & Lee St Retention Pond ($0.19M)

The total of these projects was just under $6.5 million.

The Stormwater Utility Fee was renewed in 2014. Progress continued until all 65 of the Outfalls into Bayou Texar were retrofitted and more filtration management systems are being placed, for Bayou Texar and other places in the City as well to keep up with City growth and stormwater management needs while protecting the quality of our precious waterways. The positive results in Bayou Texar make the expenditure undeniable — no fish kills in over 15 years, silt and other detritus is actively removed by filtration systems as stormwater flows into the bayou, sea grass is growing at an amazingly fast rate, and water life has grown, including large schools of minnows, dolphins, and the occasional cownose ray and manatee.

Installation of improved stormwater filtration will better protect the bayou

Photo Credit: City of Pensacola and Pensacola Historic Trust

Commemorative

Moose Crossing Sign

Greeting from Pensacola

Postcard Mural

East Hill’s First Hospital

East Hill Rainbow Shed

The Big White Cross

I Love Living in East Hill Yard Sign

The Happy House

A Room of Records

Ricardo Palma Statue

BIKE

pensacola

article by CHRISTIAN WAGLEY, BIKE PENSACOLA

“Let’s do a slow ride,” said my fellow bike advocate Tim Bustos. And so it was seven years ago when about 30 of us gathered for a six-mile meander through historic Pensacola neighborhoods. It was a blast!

We held another ride the next month, and by the third month (when we rode from the old Sacred Heart Hospital) we knew we were onto something special when 150 riders showed-up. After hosting dozens of rides since 2014, I can easily say that the Slow Ride is one of the best things ever for advancing the cause of safe cycling in our community. Plus, it’s just a heck of a lot of fun.

We choose a new route for each Ride, which is easy because our intact urban street grid brings a huge advantage over suburban areas in giving us dozens of ways to get between places. Historic homes, leafy streets, parks, bay views—these are things we look for in mapping out each route. East Hill is one of the most common neighborhoods we ride.

These are social rides, as we ride about five and a half miles in just over an hour. This gives us the chance to converse along the way and to enjoy the neighborhoods in slow motion. In some neighborhoods, children and adults alike come outside to watch and wave, as 300 or so people on bicycles makes quite a scene.

Our riders represent much of the core of those who enjoy cycling, as our riders range from kids to seniors to those who want to build the courage to ride but are afraid to do so on their own. No special bicycle or attire is required—just ride whatever bike you have and wear whatever you want.

We are social creatures, after all, and many feel safer riding in a group. Our hope is that after getting comfortable riding in a group, they are then able to advance to riding on their own. The community side of the Rides—meeting new people, strengthening bonds, seeing new places— is one of the greatest things about them.

That community-building is a big part of the after-party that follows each Slow Ride, with the Ride sponsor/host putting their own stamp on the event. There can be live music, food trucks, games and always educational exhibits from Bike Pensacola on how we can create a more bicycle-friendly community. When we ride from a retail store or restaurant we enjoy post-event discounts on merchandise and food, encouraging riders to stay around for more fun and to reward those businesses that support the cycling community.

Our Ride Squad is a group of volunteers in yellow vests who manage each ride, ensuring that no one is left behind, riders are kept safe, and any emergencies or breakdowns are handled. A safety briefing to the crowd precedes each event, and we hire Pensacola Police Department officers on motorcycles who escort us through traffic lights and stop signs so that we never stop moving.

The Slow Ride has helped to advance the cause of safe cycling in our community. Everyone loves a winning team, and by putting a few hundred riders on the road at once and having fun doing it, we have shown our elected officials and community leaders that Pensacola loves cycling and wants to see better infrastructure to make it safer.

To make our roads safer we need traffic-calming measures like traffic circles and other techniques to slow down the speeding cars that plague East Hill and the entire city. We also need interventions so that we can more safely get across the busier state roads like Cervantes and Ninth Avenue. The City Council and Mayor are increasingly hearing from residents who want better and safer conditions on our roadways, but progress toward that has been quite slow.

When I think about why anyone would want to get out and ride a bicycle to work, school, or any of the many neighborhood restaurants, breweries, and other East Hill attractions, I can’t help but think of the words of one of our regular Slow Riders. When I asked him what he enjoys about cycling, he said, “It’s the only thing I do that makes me feel like a kid again.” It’s tough to imagine any higher praise than that.

To find out about upcoming Slow Rides, and to join us in making Pensacola safer and more pleasant for walking and bicycling, visit us on Facebook or at our website at bikepensacola.org

LIFESTYLE LOVE

From shopping & dining to at-home fun, see what people enjoy most about East Hill living.

TOP fun things to

article by LIZ BIGGS

WITH SO MANY COOL THINGS TO DO IN FUN AND FUNKY EAST HILL, IT IS HARD TO CHOOSE JUST TEN.

Take a rowing class or rent kayaks at Bayview Park

Adult Learn-To-Row classes are offered by the Pensacola Rowing Club in eight sessions, then you are able to join experienced members in weekly open rowing. Children’s classes are also available. Contact pensacolarowing.org to sign up.

The Bayview Outdoor Pursuits Center offers rentals of kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, bikes, and even hammocks to enjoy.

Pack a picnic and

listen

to live

music

at St.

Christopher’s St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church hosts a free spring/summer concert series every Thursday night 6-8pm, April-June. Local favorites like Not Quite Fab, A Touch of Gray, the Reunion Band, and Crosstown rock out while fans dance and picnic on the church lawn. 3200 N. 12th Avenue.

Join or watch the kickball league at Lions Park

The Kaboom kickball league plays Wednesday nights at Lions Park, which is located on LaRua Street at 12th Avenue, south of Cervantes. Even if you don’t play, it is super fun to watch! Kaboom is Pensacola’s largest provider of social sports leagues. For more information or to register for a team visit kaboomssc.com.

TEN do in east hill

IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER, START WITH THESE AND YOU WILL SURELY EARN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD STRIPES!

Grab a cold beer at the iconic Wisteria Tavern

The “Wiz” is the oldest bar in East Hill, opening in 1935! I tend towards a PBR (or choose your fave from the 100+ beers they have in stock).

Outdoor seating and food truck deliciousness is available if you’re hungry. Located at 3808 N. 12th Avenue, under the locally famous tree tunnel aka “Avenue of the Oaks.”

Attend one of the many fun events at Bayview Park

Bayview Park hosts many exciting family-friendly events, including the Bands on the Bayou concert series and Big Screen on the Bayou movie nights as well as Earth Day Festival (April), Dragon Boat Festival (October), and the Holiday Golf Cart Parade (December), which begins and ends at the park but follows a parade route through the neighborhood. You’ll also frequently find free yoga classes and salsa lessons on the pier.

Gather a team for Tuesday trivia night at ALGA Beer Co.

Enjoy a riveting game of trivia with Ranger Brandon as you order a flight of their East Hill brews like the East Hillsner Pilsner, the Neighborhood (made with East Hill honey), and the Shania Twang cherry lime wheat beer. The delicious Brown Bagger Food Truck is located out back if you’re hungry. Trivia is on Tuesdays 7-9:30 pm. 2435 N. 12th Avenue.

fun things to do in east hill

Take a fitness class at Wild Lemon Studio

Movement is good for the mind, body, and soul. Group classes include Pilates Mat, Barre, TRX, Yoga, Interval Training, Stretch and Release, Bounce and Meditation. Visit wildlemonstudios.com for class schedules. 3000 N. 12th Avenue (Group Fitness) and 904 E. Scott Street (Pilates Equipment Studio).

Shop at the eclectic Revolver Records

They have the best selection of vinyl records in town! Owner Eric Jones is there daily from 11-6 to help you find the rare, obscure record you’ve been looking for. If he doesn’t have it in stock, he can get it. Located inside the locally-owned Jitterbug Beverage Co., 2050 N. 12th Avenue, so while you’re there you might as well have a cup of coffee, too.

Grab some fresh juice at The Daily Squeeze

Get healthy by treating yourself to some cold-pressed juice at The Daily Squeeze Juice and Smoothie Bar. They also serve great coffee and healthy food options like coconut energy balls, overnight oats, and house-made hummus.

Open weekdays 7:30-4, located at 901 N. 12th Avenue next to the East Hill Publix.

Order a top-shelf marg at Cactus Flower

My go-to is the Purist—a Patron and fresh squeezed citrus margarita with a splash of Grand Marnier. The jalapeno margarita is excellent too. You may not find it on the menu, but ask the bartender to make you a Prickly Pear margarita, it’s a local favorite. Cactus Flower’s Californiainspired Mexican cuisine is arguably the best in the neighborhood. 3525 N. 12th Avenue.

EATS east hill

article by JENNIFER PASSERETTI

Wining and dining in East Hill is bigger and better than ever. From street tacos to local brews, you don’t have to travel far to find the best cuisine or bar scene. Venture beyond your normal favorites to find internationally-inspired local gems across the neighborhood.

BREAKFAST-INSPIRED

JITTERBUG BEVERAGE CO.

2050 N 12th Avenue | DrinkJitterbug.com

Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 8 am-3 pm

Jitterbug, located in place of the long-standing former City Grocery, makes its specialty, velvety smooth cold brew and espresso drinks with locally roasted Alla Prima Coffee. Their menu includes the classics, as well as seasonal specials and signature lattes like the Bees Knees, Campfire, Canelazo, and Matcha. Not a coffee drinker? Not to fear, Jitterbug offers additional teas and drinks + gluten-free treats that are sure to make your day!

THE DAILY SQUEEZE JUICE AND SMOOTHIE

901 N 12th Avenue | TheDailySqueezePcola.com

BAR

Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 am-4 pm, Saturday 9 am-1 pm

With a focus on fresh, smooth, nutrient-dense products made on their cold-pressed juicer and packaged in ecofriendly, toxin-free glass bottles, the Daily Squeeze offers a variety of juices, wellness shots, and smoothies. Need a quick and healthy snack? Choose from their Chia Seed Parfait, Overnight Oats, Hummus and Veggies, and Energy Balls. They also offer a variety of healthy coffee drinks for a morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

LE DOUGH FOOD TRUCK

HelloLeDough.com

Le Dough is a unique mobile bakery offering handmade, vegan donuts and sweet treats, as well as savory breakfast and brunch dishes. Their menu is always rotating with new flavor options. Le Dough also caters both small and large events and can deliver a customized menu upon request. Follow Le Dough on social media to see where the truck will be popping up next!

J’S BAKERY & CAFÉ

2014 N 12th Avenue | JsBakeryandCafe.com

Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm

Nestled in the heart of East Hill, J’s Bakery and Café has been serving up fresh doughnuts, pastries, cookies, desserts, and custom cakes since 1946. In addition to the classic bakery recipes that have made J’s a Pensacola institution, current owner Ryan Thomas and his staff now offer breakfast, lunch, and catering options as well.

MAXIMILIAN COFFEE SHOP

3419 N 12th Avenue | CactusFlowerCafe.net

Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 am-5 pm

The sister restaurant to Cactus Flower Café, Maximilian Coffee Shop brews up gourmet coffees and lattes, espresso, Mexican coffees, Chai, and herbal teas, as well as ice cold frappes, fruit smoothies, and milkshakes. Need some nosh with your latte? Choose from a variety of freshly made croissants, biscotti, pastries, breakfast taquitos and burritos, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and more.

THE ORANGE PEEL FOOD TRUCK

1010 N 12th Avenue | OrangePeelin.com

Hours: Monday-Friday 7 am-11 am

Parked next to the Old Sacred Hospital on 12th, The Orange Peel brings East Hill and your next special event a variety of delicious, made-to-order breakfast dishes including breakfast sandwiches, chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, and more! They also feature new and evolving menu items, so check out their social for updates!

LUNCH LIKE YOU MEAN IT

BROWN BAGGER FOOD TRUCK

2435 N 12th Avenue (Behind Alga) | BrownBaggerFoodTruck.com

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-8 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-9 pm, Sunday 11 am-3 pm

If you’re in the mood for a made-to-order burger that’s fast becoming the favorite in town, definitely stop by Brown Bagger, now located behind Alga. They offer everything from a variety of delectable burgers to wraps to their famous Chicken Tendies to delicious sides (be sure to Truffle Parm any of them!). Pair your meal with a craft beer from Alga for the perfect lunch, dinner, or happy hour snack.

TACOS MEXICANOS

3000 N 12th Avenue | TacosMexican.com

Hours: Monday-Sunday 11 am-8 pm

East Hill’s Tacos Mexicanos food truck offers a variety of delicious tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more with both meat (including lengua and barbacoa) and vegetarian options.

HOT SPOT BARBECUE

901 East La Rua Street | HotSpotBarbecue.com

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-8 pm, FridaySaturday 10:30 am-9 pm

Opened in 2013, family-owned Hot Spot

Barbecue strives to serve the very best southern style BBQ around. Using quality ingredients and a combination of recipes from family and friends, Hot Spot selects only the best meats, seasons them with their special dry-rub, then cooks them in their outdoor oak and hickory barbecue pits. Just follow the smoke rising from the corner of 9th and La Rua for some of the best Southern cooking in Pensacola.

THE BUSY BEE MERCANTILE & GENERAL STORE

3002 N 9th Avenue | TheBusyBeeMercantile.com

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9 am-7 pm

The Busy Bee Mercantile a is a fresh and quick cafe and general store that works with a small group of trusted vendors and distributors to provide the finest food products. The wholefoods-centered, vegan café incorporates seasonal produce and products, so the menu changes daily and consists of affordable, healthy options. Try their Buffalo ChicN Wrap, Asian Nachos, Rodeo Burgers and Dogs. Chef Chardon has also started offering vegan meal kits, where customers can learn how to prepare their own vegan dishes from home!

PIZZA KITCHEN

3012 N 9th Avenue | PizzaKitchenMenu.com

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 am-9:30 pm (Closed Tuesday), Friday-Saturday 11 am-10:30 pm

Pizza Kitchen, located inside Asher and Bee Apothecary + Holistic Clinic, offers an extensive menu including seafood platters, pizzas, pastas, wings, calzones, stromboli, subs, and salads. Check out their website for updated deals and coupons!

DINE-OUT DINNER

BONELLI’S CAFE ITALIA

1217 N 9th Avenue | BonellisCafeItalia.com

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 5 pm-9 pm

Bonelli’s is a local favorite for amazing Italian food. The familyrun restaurant offers a variety of pastas, bakes, homemade sauces, and decadent desserts made using family recipes. Reservations aren’t required but are highly recommended. Outdoor seating is available, often accompanied by live music! Daily Specials: Cello Tuesdays (5-9:30 pm) sample their homemade cellos with a flight of 3 for $12; Wine Wednesdays (5-9:30 pm) 50% off all wines sold by the glass; Thirsty Thursdays (5-9:30 pm) $2 Domestic, $3 Import, $4 Craft.

CACTUS FLOWER CAFÉ

3425 N 12th Avenue | CactusFlowerCafe.net

Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 am-9 pm

Cactus Flower Café offers a unique twist on delicious Mexican cuisine. The “CaliMex” menu is a fusion of traditional Mexican items made in a healthier way without lard or added animal fats, and everything is made from scratch every day. Even their cocktails are mix-free and made with only fresh ingredients.

GROVER T’S BBQ

5887 US 90, Milton, FL | GroverTBBQ.com

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 am-8 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-9 pm

We know it’s not in East Hill, but its owner is! If you’re in the mood to get out of town for a night, check out Grover T’s BBQ restaurant in Milton. All of their recipes are handcrafted, authentic, and prepared in a true southern style, with slowcooked BBQ meats kissed by hardwood smoke for up to eighteen hours. “If it doesn’t have a pink ring, it’s not the real thing,” to quote owner Mike Thomas. Not to mention, be sure to try their homestyle desserts and full bar with craft drinks.

EAST HILL PIZZA

2030 N 12th Avenue | EastHillPizza.com

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-8 pm, FridaySaturday, 11 am-9 pm

Neighborhood pizza staple East Hill Pizza is a veteran, family-owned business that is dedicated to providing homemade pizzas—they offer close to 20 specialty pies!—along with baked wings, salads, desserts, and more. Pizza dough and sauces are made in-house, and vegetables and meats are handsliced daily. Our faves include the 12th Avenue Pizza, Moreno Pizza, and Lloyd Pizza. You can also help give back to the community through their “Pizza Pay It Forward” program—purchase one of three pizza options and your purchase will be donated to anyone in need who redeems the coupon, no questions asked. Make sure to check out their load of daily specials online!

OZONE PIZZA PUB

1010 N 12th Avenue #111 | ozonepizza.wordpress.com

Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 4 pm-9 pm

Ozone has been a locals favorite for classic and specialty hand-crafted pizza pies, sandwiches, calzones, salads, and a variety of beers on tap since 1998. The low-key haunt, tucked away in the basement of the historic original Sacred Heart Hospital, is known for its quirky, fun atmosphere. Rumor has it that ghosts wander the hallways, but that doesn’t stop locals from visiting the gothic-style architectural landmark. Soups and salads round out the extensive menu, and The Italian Stallion and The John Wayne grinders are savory delights on a bun.

DRINKS + NIGHTLIFE

WISTERIA TAVERN

3808 N 12th Avenue | WisteriaTavern.com

Hours: Monday 3 pm-10 pm, Tuesday-Thursday 3 pm-2:30 am, Friday-Saturday 11 am-2:30 am, Sunday 11 am-10 pm

Started as a grocery and supply store sometime in the late 1920s to early 1930s, The “Wiz” is now a Pensacola institution. They offer over 100 beers to choose from and have a large variety of both Ales and Lagers, bottled and on draft. Owner Terry Abbott personally sits down with each of his distributors and hand picks each beer. Make sure to say “Hi” to Manager Heidi behind the bar and enjoy their frequent food truck and live music too! Daily Specials and Events: Tuesday Ladies Night WITH $5 Frozee, $3 Barefoot House Wine, $3 Canyon Road Moscato, $3.50 High Noon; Thursday Trivia at 5:30 pm; Flashback Friday Happy Hour (11 am-2 pm) $2.75 all Domestics.

ALGA BEER COMPANY

3000 N 12th Avenue | AlgaBeerCo.com

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, FridaySaturday 11 am-12 am, Sunday 11 am-9 pm

Alga is East Hill’s neighborhood brewery. Stop by for some award-winning craft beer made right here in East Hill—be sure to try the 12th Avenue Ale and the East Hillsner Pilsner and enjoy some snacks from the on-site food trucks. Daily Specials and Events: Trivia Tuesdays (7 pm-9:30 pm), Wednesday, Bingo with Bobo (7 pm-10 pm).

THE EAST HILL BOTTLE SHOP

2704 N 12th Avenue | 850.476.3505

Hours: Monday-Thursday 10 am-7 pm, Friday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm

Locally-owned and operated by the proprietors of The Bottle Shop and The Wine Bar downtown, the recently opened East Hill Bottle Shop offers over 1,000 wine selections, 50 craft beer varieties and plenty of free parking. Every Wednesday come in and enjoy a Wine Tasting, $10 for 10 wines.

RECIPES resident

by PAM SMITH

For those that prefer the comforts of home and kitchen, enjoy these locally-inspired recipes shared by a longtime East Hill resident.

RECIPES Nassau Grits

The history of its origin was printed on a 1966 post card for promotion of An Evening in Old Seville Square (“AEIOSS”)—an event from 1966 to 1972 that was succeeded by the Great Gulf Coast Art Festival in 1973. The postcard reads:

“Some 25 years ago (1941), the late Henry Richardson was fishing in Nassau. He lived with the conchs (beachcombers) and ate their standard fare of fish and grits. To improve the dish, he added fresh vegetables from his boat, with tasty results. Later that summer he visited his family in Highlands, NC and told them of his discovery. Subsequently, when they cooked the dish, it occurred to Lucie Cary to substitute leftover country ham for the fish. The resulting concoction has such a distinctive and delicious flavor and appearance that they knew they had hit upon a true gourmet’s delight. Lucie added crumbled bacon on top and dubbed the dish “Nassau Grits”. The Carys and the Richardsons have been serving it with pride ever since”, especially with fried fish.

INGREDIENTS:

Serves 10

1 ½ cups ham, finely diced

2 small green bell peppers, finely chopped

2 medium onions finely chopped

10 vine ripened medium tomatoes (or substitute, per recipe in SOME LIKE IT SOUTH, with one 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes)

1lb bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

DIRECTIONS:

Fry the bacon, then put aside, leaving 2 large kitchen spoons of bacon grease in the pan.

Sauté onions and peppers until soft. Add ham and stir. Sauté on low heat for 20 minutes.

Add tomatoes and simmer for one hour.

In a separate pot, cook grits in a normal manner. When grits are cooked, stir ham mixture into the grits. Serve hot with crumbled bacon on top.

Southern Crab Cakes

INGREDIENTS: Serves 8

Crab Cakes

1 lb lump crab meat, drained

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 tablespoon Creole Mustard

½ teaspoon Tabasco

½ teaspoon Worcestershire

1 cup saltines crushed

3 or 4 green onions chopped

¼ cup or so chopped bell pepper

Seasoning- pinch of Zatarain’s or Old Bay

Celery, carrots, capers can be added

DIRECTIONS:

Tartar Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon chopped celery leaves

1 tablespoon sweet or dill pickle relish

1 tablespoon capers

1 tablespoon chopped white ends of green onions

Gently stir together crab cake ingredients. Let stand for about three minutes. Shape into about eight patties. Place on wax paper and chill for one hour. Sauté in a non-stick skillet in no more than three tablespoons of butter until golden brown, about four minutes per side. Mix together tartar sauce ingredients in a small bowl and serve with warm crab cakes.

Auby’s Southern Cornbread Dressing

INGREDIENTS:

1 pone cornbread (Make according to the package. Use butter milk. Cover with a towel and leave out over night to dry a bit.)

1 package (about 14 oz) herb stuffing mix

2 cups diced green pepper

2 cups diced onion

2 cups diced celery

2 cloves garlic, minced

10 eggs, lightly beaten

Sage, rosemary, savory, thyme, crumbled bay leaves, black pepper, cayenne, to taste

1 lb Cajun smoked sausage sliced.

~1 quart chicken broth (I prefer Better than Boullion)

DIRECTIONS:

Set oven to 350 degrees.

On medium heat, sauté sausage in skillet and remove. Sauté onions, green pepper, celery, and garlic (in that order), until soft.

Break up pone cornbread. Mix cornbread, stuffing mix, cooked sausage, and cooked vegetables in a large bowl. Add eggs and broth. (Start with about a quart of broth. You’ll want it moist but not too soupy.) Add the spices as desired.

Spray a pan, pour in mixture, and bake at 350 degrees for at least an hour.

Sprinkle with a little Paprika to make it pretty. You can reduce accordingly for smaller groups. Once you’ve got a pone of cornbread you may as well go for it! It freezes well.

WELLNESS Community

article by LAUREN GUND

Life is full of stressful situations, whether it’s worrying about work, finances, relationships, or struggling to cope with the current state of the world. It is important to include self-care in your daily routine and make sure you stay in tune with your social, emotional, and physical well-being. There are many East Hill establishments that can help guide you on your wellness journey and help cultivate a mind-body-soul balance.

ENHANCE YOUR WELLBEING:

East Hill has many options for treating yourself to a wellness session. A wide range of businesses and individual practitioners offer an array of regenerative services. Everything from traditional massage to alternative healing treatments is available for those seeking to recharge and enhance their physical vitality and well-being.

UNPLUG, UNWIND & CONNECT:

In this fast-paced world, sometimes it’s hard to make the time to stop and check in with yourself. Perhaps it’s time to take a break from your phone and connect in other ways with Earth. Restorative activities like meditation and yoga help those who practice it become more present in life’s moments and less stressed. East Hill offers classes for beginners or experts. Selfdiscovery, transformation, and creativity are all common outcomes of regular practice.

Learn more about the wellness culture and where to seek guidance from the experts.

understanding spiritual and wellness terminology

WELLNESSwordplay

MASSAGE

SWEDISH MASSAGE a relaxing, gentle massage featuring long, gliding strokes on the muscles in the direction of the heart. It is one of the most common forms of Western massage.

MASSAGE WITH CUPPING a technique where cups are placed on the body and the air is vacuumed out, creating suction which increases blood flow and relaxes muscles.

MASSAGE WITH HOT STONES uses hot stones either placed on the body or as an extension of the therapist’s hands to relax muscles and release tension.

ENERGY HEALING

BREATH WORK a general term used to describe any type of therapy that utilizes breathing exercises to improve mental, physical, and spiritual health.

ACUPUNCTURE insertion of very thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body, used to treat pain, overall wellness, and stress management.

REIKI a Japanese technique that directs “ki” with the hands and symbolic movements to achieve energy balance.

SOUND HEALING uses the voice, singing, and tones to relax and clear the body, reduce stress, alter consciousness, and create a deep sense of peace. Often used are crystal or metal bowls, rain sticks, flutes, gongs, and drums.

BODYWORK

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE similar to Swedish massage but with deeper pressure, beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE a deep massage that works to loosen the thin sheath of fibrous tissue enclosing a muscle.

MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE a gentle, yet effective technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to promote the removal of body toxins and excess fluid from the tissues by speeding the flow of lymph.

NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY massage therapy for back pain, where the massage therapist puts pressure on specific (trigger) points of the body.

REFLEXOLOGY a form of bodywork or alternative therapy using gentle touch to palpate the synarthrodial joints of the cranium (head); may also include light touches to a patient’s spine and pelvic bone.

BODY INTELLIGENCE HEALING a relaxing massage and exploration of what the body is saying to you through its tensions.

COUNSELING & COACHING

COUNSELING assistance and guidance in resolving personal, social, or psychological problems and difficulties.

LIFE COACHING helps individuals compose and implement the “bigger story” they see for their life – whether personal, professional, or through life transitions.

MINDFUL WELLNESS

GUIDED MEDITATION techniques used to slow down the brain waves, utilize the imagination, access the subconscious mind, connect with the spirit, and change habits.

RESTORATIVE YOGA a restful practice of deep relaxation and meditation that holds yoga poses (asanas) for a longer duration using props like yoga blocks, blankets, and bolsters.

WELLNESS PROVIDERSCommunity

12TH AVENUE MASSAGE THERAPY GROUP

2100 N. 12th Avenue | 12avenuemassage.com

12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group is a massage therapy clinic located in the heart of East Hill. Specializing in rehabilitation massage, this group of highly experienced licensed massage therapists will treat your muscle pain and dysfunction. Relaxation massage is also available. Services are offered as individual or couples massages. Open seven days a week, by appointment. If you have questions or need help choosing a service that aligns with your therapy goals, call 850-432-6870 or visit their website.

EMPATHIC PRACTICE

2701 N. 12th Avenue | empathicpractice.us

Do you ever feel like your life is chaotic and you’re being pulled in all directions with no control?

Empathic Practice is here to arm you with information, tools, and support that will empower you to take control of your life. Empathic Practice is a holistic lifestyle wellness clinic. Focused on mindset changes, they deliver practices that give you options – from meditation to medical marijuana. The brain-child of an anesthesiologist and a creative director, Empathic Practice merges generations into a family-owned clinic with nearly 40 years of medical expertise and alternative health practices to help you achieve optimal mental and physical health and wellbeing.

YOGA ABODE

Iamabode.com

Yoga Abode is a uniquely-styled, pop-up yoga studio founded by Certified Yoga Instructor Donna Dickey. Donna has been voted “Best of the Coast” Yoga Instructor for four consecutive years, offering many styles of yoga centered around relaxation, self-love, and restorative principles. As a pop-up studio, the mission of Yoga Abode is to make yoga accessible to anyone, anywhere. Donna’s hands-on approach is available through her weekly classes, monthly fullmoon events with massage and sound healing, private yoga instruction, retreats and wellness weekends. Follow her on Facebook (@iamabode) or visit her website for upcoming events and offerings.

EAST HILL MASSAGE AND AESTHETICS

2045 12th Avenue | theeasthillspa.com

East Hill Massage and Aesthetics is nestled in the heart of our East Hill neighborhood in a cozy vintage building across from the iconic J’s Bakery. They are owned, operated, and staffed by women, with a natural and instinctive desire to bring comfort and wellness to their family of clients. A welcoming team of award-winning Massage Therapists and Aestheticians are waiting to attend to your needs, offering an extensive selection of massage and bodywork services and genuinely personalized skincare, as well as airbrush spray tanning, and organic hair removal.

FIVE POINTS ACUPUNCTURE & NUTRITION

3101 N 12th Avenue, Suite 102 | fivepointshealth.com

Five Points Acupuncture & Nutrition Creating uses Traditional Chinese Medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle enhancements to offer holistic solutions to frustrating health problems that interfere with your life such as chronic pain, weight management, and fertility. The Five Points Team is composed of highly-accredited healthcare professionals with a shared passion for holistic wellness that is tailored to your unique journey and needs.

MENDED WING COUNSELING

1011 N 12th Avenue | mendedwingcounseling.com

Mended Wing supports individuals and families by exploring what is blocking you from moving forward and developing an evidence-based treatment plan that is individualized to address your concerns. Their team of experienced, certified therapists utilize a variety of techniques to address issues such as trauma, stress management, anxiety and depression, spirituality, boundaries, personality disorders and interpersonal conflict, LGBTQ+, life transitions, family and marriage conflict, and more.

HENRY CHIROPRACTIC

1823 N. 9th Avenue | drcraighenry.com

Dr. Craig Henry is a licensed chiropractor who uses chiropractic care to improve the health and wellness in all areas of a patient’s life. Whether you are having problems with back pain or neck pain, or just want to start feeling better when you wake up in the morning, Dr. Henry is here to help. Dr. Henry takes a whole-person approach in chiropractic care, which means looking for the underlying causes of disease, discomfort, and pain, as opposed to just treating the symptoms. Many seemingly unrelated symptoms often arise from imbalances in the spinal column, and Dr. Henry will be able to determine what’s causing your pain and create a personalized chiropractic and wellness plan to suit your individual needs.

EAST HILL PHARMACY

2899 N 12th Avenue | (850) 438-7568

A locally-owned full service pharmacy, East Hill Pharmacy offers excellent personalized service and a large selection of vitamins, supplements, medical items, and prescriptions. They take all major insurance companies and offer a discount program for patients without insurance. Stop in and talk with one of their experienced staff members who are so passionate about serving the East Hill community.

B BEAUTIFUL EAST HILL

2900 N 12th Avenue | bvirtualhealth.com/bbeautiful

Founded on the belief that everyone has a beautiful story within, East Hill Pharmacy and B Virtual Health and Wellness welcome you to their new joint venture, B Beautiful East Hill, a premier medispa focused on accessible, luxury aesthetic and wellness treatments. B Beautiful East Hill offers a range of aesthetic procedures, including facials, chemical peels, IV therapy, wellness services, and customized anti-aging solutions.

PICKED AT PERFECTION

1807 W. Cross Street | pickedatperfection.com

Picked at Perfection is an urban farm that is teaching a healthier approach to sourcing and preparing home-grown foods. Not only can you learn how to plant and grow your own produce but how to also effectively close the loop on healthy eating by bringing food from the ground into your home and ultimately into a happy belly. Contact Greg Miller for a tour and learn how to start making healthy and delicious meal choices that you can harvest at home.

WILD LEMON STUDIOS

904 E. Scott Street & 3000 N. 12th Avenue | wildlemonstudios.com

Wild Lemon is a fitness family grounded in Pilates and centered around a customized approach for each client. They lean into experimental, complementary modalities to take a holistic approach to fitness. Whether you’re seeking a shared experience through a group glass or a breakthrough during a one-on-one session, Wild Lemon offers certified instructors for Pilates, Bounce (Trampoline) Classes, Stretch & Release, TRX, and more.

SADHANA SISTERS SOUND HEALING

The Sadhana Sisters are healing professionals that uniquely combine music, song, and sound baths for sound healing therapy that improves physical health and emotional wellbeing. Both certified yoga instructors as well, they discovered profound healing through the use of sound and somatic bodies. The Sadhana Sisters offer the perfect addition to any yoga or meditation practice, whether it be for a guided group activity or a personal at-home experience. Based in East Hill, call Brooke Camp at (504) 251-0058 to begin your sound healing journey.

Understanding and applying the importance of being present at the moment, being aware of your feelings and emotions, and how to successfully set the right mindset and environment for using is essential aid in dealing with severe conditions like anxiety, depression, chronic pain, burnout, and grief.

We bring mindfulness as a tool to our patients and clients to complement their actions with consciousness. Through intentional training and coaching, each individual that come to us can learn to understand how they’re feeling, and explore what they’re going through in a deeper manner, assess their emotions, their physical sensations, and find healing through mindset and behavioral change.

From Medical Marijuana Certifications to Chinese Medicine, from Acupuncture and Energy healing to Hypnosis and Past Life Regression. We are present in our community to bring options, education, and awareness to how you can experience a better life journey focusing on well being.

HENRY CHIROPRACTIC

A Thank You to Our Community

You are the heartbeat of Pensacola; since 2014, serving you has been our greatest joy and the center of our success.

Our team at Henry Chiropractic has had a blast being a part of local events, sports games, clubs, and races. As we have watched Pensacola expand, we have had the honor of growing with it.

Chiropractic care is our passion, and we have found purpose in providing our best care to you.

We are excited to announce that Henry Chiropractic is moving to a new and more prominent location, and it is because of you, friends and family, and our diligent team.

So a huge thank you to you, our beloved community; remember that just like you've had ours;

We've got your back!

See you soon, Your friends at Henry Chiropractic

1823 N 9TH AVE

article by DONNA DICKEY

SHOP [LOCAL] till you drop

The Shop Local movement is hardly a trend –it’s a shift in lifestyle that more and more people are embracing. We shape our community’s identity by supporting small businesses. In increasing numbers, consumers are turning away from big box retailers and investing in local businesses instead, looking to support their communities – and more significantly, to support the people that make those communities what they are. There’s a feeling of shared responsibility and ownership when you support an independent business, and we are so proud to support our East Hill retail shops.

When we shop local, we share the love, and when we purchase from local businesses, we are, as Anna Lappe so poignantly says, “casting a vote for the kind of world you want to live in”.

Why we should shop local… Local matters. Let’s support our East Hill businesses, who offer better and more personalized service, higher quality goods, and a desire to support local vendors are often named by consumers as key motivations to buy locally. Our East Hill local businesses continue to prove to be surprisingly resilient. These entrepreneurs breathe life into our East Hill community and, for that, we are grateful.

How to support small businesses... Support them on social media. Leave positive reviews online. Don’t ask for free stuff. Tell your friends. Word of mouth. Pay with cash.

Introducing the first East Hill Shop Local Guide. Thank you to our featured retail shops for opening your business in East Hill. Now go out and shop!

SHOP [LOCAL]

ANGEL’S GARDEN

1208 N. 12th Avenue

Angel's Garden is a whimsical gift shop representing over 100 artisans in the Pensacola and surrounding area and housing a plethora of unique gifts. There is something for everyone.

AQUA DECOR & DESIGN

1320 N. 9th Avenue

At Aqua Decor & Design, they work collaboratively with their clients to achieve smart, sensible, and incredibly beautiful spaces. Shop Aqua for your home furnishings, lighting and accessories.

BELLE AMÉ SOAP BAR

911 N. 9th Avenue

Belle Amé Soap Bar offers handmade soap, lotion, bath bombs, body scrubs, shower gels, bath salts, lip scrubs, candles and more! They make every product using only nature’s finest ingredients.

CELEBRATION’S THE FLORIST

717 N. 12th Avenue

Celebration’s has served East Hill for over 30 years. In addition to providing gorgeous floral creations, they also have a gift shop and greenhouse filled with quality flowers, live plants, and more.

DEE MCDAVID INTERIORS

3000 N. 12th Avenue

Whether you need help picking out custom drapery, redesigning your bathroom, or transforming your entire home, the team at Dee McDavid can help create spaces that are beautiful and unique.

DUH FOR GARDEN & HOME

501 N. 9th Avenue

Duh is a multifaceted store comprising a strategic combination of lifestyle elements. They offer an eclectic collection of furniture, home accessories, and found objects from all over the world.

THE EAST HILL BOTTLE SHOP

2704 N. 12th Avenue

Stop in for all your vino needs as well as a variety of cheese and meats. Offering more than 1,000 wine selections, 50 craft beer varieties. Wine Tastings are offered every Wednesday from 5pm-9pm.

EAST HILL PHARMACY

2899 N. 12th Avenue

East Hill Pharmacy is a friendly full-service pharmacy, supplier of all prescription needs, compounds, medical equipment, homeopathic remedies, vitamins, and other overthe-counter items.

IN DETAIL INTERIORS

1514 N. 9th Avenue

In Detail is an award winning full service interior design firm and unique retail shop. Their shop carries lighting, furnishings, accessories, window treatments, vintage glass and gifts.

IN DETAIL CANDLE STUDIO

1514 N. 9th Avenue

In Detail Candle Studio offers a unique candle pouring experience in their historic 1910 carriage house. Choose your vessel, lid, and scent before you are led through the pouring process.

JUST JUDY’S FLOWERS

2509 N. 12th Avenue

With 35 years of floral design experience, Just Judy’s specializes in delivering courteous, professional service and the highest quality floral and gift items around, while offering daily delivery service.

REVOLVER RECORDS

2050 N. 12th Avenue

Revolver Records has been selling music in Pensacola since 1987. They carry the deepest selection and have the best prices on new vinyl in town, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for then they’ll order it!

SHOP [LOCAL]

SEVILLE POWER EQUIPMENT

2601 N. 12th Avenue

Seville Power Equipment is your one stop shop for outdoor power equipment sales and repairs. Their inventory includes mowers, chainsaws, blowers, generators, and more from all of the top brands.

SOBO BOUTIQUE

518 N. 9th Avenue

SoBo Boutique is inspired by the owner’s two favorite styles, Southern and Bohemian. They offer an array of handpicked eclectic clothing, jewelry, accessories, and even some gift items.

TREK BICYCLE STORE

701 E. Cervantes Street

Trek Bike is a family-owned bike shop that offers service, sales, and fitting for a wide range of types and brands of bicycles for riders of all ages. They proudly specialize in Trek, Bontrager and Electra.

WATERBOYZ SURF & SKATE SHOP

380 N. 9th Avenue

Waterboyz is a one-stop surf and stake shop spanning over 10,000 square feet of space to showcase a variety of merchandise (including hand-crafted surfboards) along with a vegan cafe and indoor skate park!

Let’s continue to shop local and support our community business brick and mortar retailers. In a world where we can shop anywhere, let’s shop local.

If you would like to see your business featured in our Shop Local Guide, and for more questions and information, please email us at info@easthill.org.

The way to change the world is through individual responsibility and taking local action in your own community.

- JEFF BRIDGES, ACTOR

DUH is not your average high-end furniture store. It’s an experience. What started as a 2,000-square-foot cinder block building is now a sprawling 30,000-square-foot compound, beautifully landscaped with rustic pathways and fountains along with Tuscan-inspired architecture with a modern flare. One could spend countless hours walking through their many elegant showrooms of white and tan hues. Each place, impeccably arranged for both comfort and luxury, contains a range of high-end wares—upholstery, art, rugs, outdoor furniture, ceramics, stationery, men’s and women’s clothing, plants, fine accessories, and one-ofa-kind items that have been imported from all over the world. Then once you’re ready for a bite, walk through the garden to Jo’s Cafe for some good food, good friends, and good service. Like I said, it’s an experience.

FLOURISH let your day

We are gifted nearly the entire year to spend in the sun-shining embrace of Florida’s Panhandle. Here we celebrate this lengthy window of time with a list of 70 things that stir the carefree nostalgia and heart-lifting fun of living and playing in East Hill.

❒ Go treasure hunting at an antique market

❒ Spend a whole day barefoot

❒ Take a road trip to a nearby town

❒ Rock on a porch swing

❒ Set up a backyard movie night

❒ Enjoy an outdoor concert

❒ Play a lawn game like bocce ball

❒ Watch the rain

❒ Plant an herb garden

❒ Forage flowers and make a bouquet for a friend

❒ Dance under the stars

❒ Take up knitting

❒ Send a postcard to someone

❒ Drive with the windows down and radio turned up

❒ Go to a yoga class

❒ Be a tourist in your own town

❒ Take a trip on the ferry

❒ Run through a sprinkler

❒ Spend a lazy afternoon near the water

❒ Rent kayaks or paddle boards

❒ Puddle jump after a storm

❒ Perfect the art of stone skipping

❒ Float in an inner tube

❒ Go night swimming

❒ Declare a phone-free day

❒ Go geocaching

❒ Spend a day at the beach

❒ Listen to a bird sing

❒ Lie in the grass pondering cloud shapes

❒ Wake up early and watch the sun rise

❒ Sleep outside under the stars

❒ Block out a day where you put nothing on the calendar

❒ Reread your favorite book

❒ Take your dog (or your neighbor’s dog) for a long walk

❒ Run after the ice cream truck

❒ Visit a local farmers market

❒ Have a backyard BBQ

❒ Sit on a dock watching boats come in

❒ Plan a potluck with neighbors

❒ Try a new restaurant

❒ Eat a hot dog at a baseball game

❒ Take a fitness class

❒ Take a tennis lesson

❒ Pack a picnic

❒ Visit a local brewery

❒ Explore a new park

❒ Roller skate

❒ Go camping

❒ Catch a fireworks show

❒ Enjoy an at-home wine tasting

❒ Make it a date night

❒ Swing at the playground

❒ Go fishing

❒ Learn to play an instrument

❒ Take a bike ride without a destination in mind

❒ Make a playlist of your favorite songs

❒ Declare a “yes” day

❒ Photograph a sunset

❒ Sit on a park bench and people watch

❒ Have an at-home spa day

❒ Master the art of doing nothing

❒ Host a block party

❒ Make a pitcher of fresh lemonade

❒ Spend your lunch break in a park

❒ Try a new food truck

❒ Cook a meal over an open fire

❒ Learn to juggle

❒ Bake your favorite cookies Take a nap in a hammock

❒ Play a round of disc golf

❒ Hold a bake sale and donate the proceeds to your favorite charity

❒ Have your neighbors over for dinner

THEN & NOW east hill shopping

article by BOB MOULTON

Thirteenth and Gadsden Street was an early shopping area. You may know this area because the original East Hill Baptist Church was located opposite the drug store and the Piggly Wiggly Grocery Store in the nineteen twenties and thirties. The drug store had a soda fountain and curb service. Also at this intersection was the Strand Movie Theatre, which was rather large for its time.

In 1947, the old wooden portion of NB Cook was being replaced by a brick building. This is now the location of Publix on East Cervantes. The second grade classroom was moved to the basement of East Hill Baptist. We had our lunch in an open lot across from the side of the church. A hurricane came that September, and while we tried to have lunch our paper plates were blown away.

This area fell into reduced patronage because the bridge over Bayou Texar was moved to Cervantes Street. A new retail area was built by the old Sacred Heart Hospital at 12th and Gonzalez. The Strand Movie Theatre was torn down in the mid-forties, and the drug store and grocery were demolished in the last several years. East Hill Baptist moved to Spanish Trail. The old East Hill Baptist is now City Community Church.

In the thirties, a new shopping area was develop at 12th and Gonzales, opposite the east side of the old Sacred Heart Hospital. There was an apothecary, named P & S (physicians and surgeon), and a sundry shop with a soda fountain called Wagg’s. A post office branch was available as was an Empire Laundry branch, and a barbershop, (Johnson’s) and beauty shop. The big store was Friendly Service Grocery. There were other small shops too.

In the first half of the fifties, Winn Dixie opened their first store in Pensacola called Kwick Check, which faced Gonzalez Street. Across from the front of Sacred Heart Hospital facing 12th Avenue was a collection of stores, including a restaurant, flower shop, dress shop, and Frank Hardy Photo Studios. These all existed until a gas explosion took them out.

By 2000 this area was converted to office space. Activity was moving north to Highland Terrace and Eastgate and now to Nine Mile Road. But what we’ve since then is a resurgence in the East Hill shopping scene. Local owners and families that span the generations now offer everything from groceries to power equipment, and I don’t see them leaving any time soon. As Donna Dickey so perfectly put it, “The Shop Local movement is hardly a trend – it’s a shift in lifestyle that more and more people are embracing.”

I’m thrilled to see businesses moving back into our neighborhood because they see the value to invest in this community. Let’s continue to support local so our children and grandchildren can reminisce just as I’ve had the pleasure to do.

places of WOR SHIP

by PAM SMITH

My Christian mother would always say that you should live close to your church. We are blessed in this neighborhood with such a variety of places to worship, regardless of your religious roots. If you aren’t already a member of one of these welcoming communities, we hope you’ll consider walking into one soon and deciding to call it home.

B’NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

1829 N. 9th Avenue

Service Times: Friday 5:00

pm Candle Lighting, 7:00 pm

Mincha/Maarv; Saturday 9:30 am

Shacharit, 6:00 pm Havdalah

(850) 433-7311

help@bnaiisraelpensacola.org

bnaiisraelpensacola.org

CATHEDRAL OF THE SACRED HEART

1212 E. Moreno Street

Service Times: Saturday 4:00 pm, Sunday 8:00 am, 9:30 am, 11:00 am

M-F 6:30 am, Saturday 8:00 am (850) 438-3131

shcptdiocese.org

EMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH

701 W. La Rua Street

Service Times: Sunday 8:00 am, 11:00 am

(850) 433-0815

emanuelmbchurch@yahoo.com

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

500 N Palafox Street

Service Times: Sunday 8:15 am, 10:30 am, 10:45 am (850) 433-1108

fbcp.org

FIRST CITY CHURCH

1301 E. Gadsden Street

Service Times: Sunday 10:00 am (850) 433-0210

info@firstcitychurch.org firstcitychurch.org

GADSDEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

901 E. Gadsden Street

Service Times: Sunday 10:00 am (850) 433-0014

office@gadsdenstreetmethodist. com

gadsdenstreetmethodist.com

JEHOVAH LUTHERAN CHURCH

2801 N. 9th Avenue

Servie Times: Sunday (850) 433-2091

jlclcms@gmail.com lcms.org

MCILWAIN MEMORIAL PRESBYTERIAN

1220 E. Blount Street

Service Times: Sunday 9:00 am

(850) 438-5449

info@mcilwainchurch.org mcilwain.org

PENSACOLA CHABAD

JEWISH CENTER

919 N 12th Avenue

(850) 291-9600

Service Times: Friday 7:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am

rabbi@chabadpensacola.com chabadpensacola.com

ST. CHRISTOPHER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

3200 N 12th Avenue

Service Times: Sunday 10:30 am (850) 433-0074

susan@scpen.org scpen.org

ST. MARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

2203 N. 12th Avenue

Service Times: Sunday 9:00 am, 11:00 am (850) 432-7777

Info@stmarkpensacola.com stmarkpensacola.com

UNITY OF PENSACOLA

716 N 9th Avenue

Service Times: Sunday 9:55 am (850) 438-2277

unity@unityofpensacola.org

unityofpensacla.org

3200 North 12th Ave

Pensacola, FL 32503

P (850) 433-0074

www.scpen.org

St. Christopher’s Concerts

APRIL-JUNE | 6-8 PM

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy a free concert series held April through June. Enjoy live local music on the lawn from 6-8 pm + food trucks. Bands cover a spectrum of music—from classic rock, blues and funk to pop, R&B and more.

The bands and sound operators are paid by donations from our very generous sponsors. To learn more or to become a sponsor, check us out of Facebook or visit:

scpen.org/christophers-concerts

HOME + GARDEN

from home improvements and front yard gardens, to safety tips and more.

CONTRACTOR hiring the right

So you’re wanting to do some home renovations—maybe adding a mother-in-law suite in the backyard or putting on a new roof. Your home is your biggest investment. If you’re investing a lot of money into your property, you want to be sure that the work is being done well. So how do you know that your contractor is right for the job?

by AN EAST HILL CONTRACTOR

No matter your desired project, always use a licensed and insured contractor. Check with the regulatory agencies (see below) to be sure. These agencies can tell you if the contractor is actively licensed. If they are, they are required to have the proper insurance to maintain that license. You can then check with both the State and with the Competency Board to see if there are any complaints against the contractor to be sure the one you are talking with is a good fit for your needs.

ESCAMBIA COUNTY COMPETENCY BOARD

(850) 595-3572 | contractorlicense@myescambia.com

CITY OF PENSACOLA INSPECTIONS

(850) 436-5600 | cityinspections@cityofpensacola.com

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL REGULATION

(850) 487-1395 | www.myfloridalicense.com

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is another great place to do some research. See if your contractor is a member of the BBB. To be a member and to have a Triple “A” rating takes effort by anyone applying for and achieving this rating. This is another layer of professionalism by your contractor to be rated with the BBB.

One you’ve done these background checks, it’s time to weigh in cost. Receiving at least three quotes is highly recommended, but also keep in mind that pricing isn’t black and white. Contractors may break out costs differently, so it can be difficult to compare apples. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request further breakdowns of costs to better understand where your money is going. Also while you might not care to go with the most expensive option, pricing often reflects quality. If the contractor’s bid is a little higher or not readily available to begin immediately, it probably means they do a good job and are in higher demand. That’s ok. It’s better to wait and have it done right.

Also make sure you like the humans behind the business. You’ll be interacting with them frequently and you should feel good about the person leading your job. continued

Once you’ve chosen your contractor, establish a good line of communication so you can always reach someone by phone if you have questions or concerns. Some of the things you need to be sure are covered in the contract are:

✓ The cost of the work to be done on your project.

✓ A good idea as to when they will be able to start and an estimated (realistic) completion date.

✓ A copy of the estimate for your project as an attachment to the contract is a good way to move forward. This way you know what they are going to do and how the cost is spread over the different aspects of your project.

✓ Any changes to the contract or project scope should be done in writing (with any price changes) before the contractor is “ok’d” to proceed.

This leads us to the next most important part of dealing with a contractor—payment. It is never a good idea to pay ahead of any work being done. If your contractor asks for a down payment and hasn’t performed any work, then this may be a sign of not having the financial where-with-all to handle your job. Red flag! A lot of time this is robbing Peter to pay Paul, if you know what we mean. A contractor should not ask for any money up front. His first draw should be based on completed work on your project. If the estimate for the work is made a part of the contract (as recommended above) then you will know what they have done and therefore what money is actually owed to the contractor at each milestone.

Now, sometimes a payment is needed to secure an order for what we call “long lead” items. These are items that need to be onsite for the contractor to be able to move forward with your job. Things like windows and doors, or electrical and HVAC gear, sometimes need to be ordered and paid for earlier than needed because they take longer to get in. If a payment is needed for long-lead items, I would recommend a joint check to your contractor and his supplier that is securing the materials. That way you are assured the money is being used for your job (not someone else’s). At minimum, be sure to get a receipt to see that the material was paid.

Let’s talk about permits. Be sure your contractor pulls a permit for the work you are needing to be done on your project. If they say they don’t need a permit then this should raise a red flag in most cases. To be sure if your job needs a permit, simply call the City or County and ask.

Often times a permit will require drawings to be submitted. If your contractor can do the drawings, this will save you money. If drawings are needed and your contractor can not do them then reach out to a professional, residential designer or licensed architect.

Once the permit is obtained, it must be visibly posted onsite. When a permit is “pulled”, the City and County will both require a Notice of Commencement (NOC) to be filed and recorded at the Clerk of the Court before any inspections can be made. This NOC will require you to sign and have it notarized before it can be recorded. Often times after a NOC is filed, subcontractors and suppliers working with your contractor will file a “Notice of Lien” with the courts.

You may receive a copy of this notice in the mail, but not to worry. This is NOT a lien, it is only a notice that the subcontractor or supplier who filed it will be performing work or supplying material to your project. When you get these, it is imperative of you to be sure you also receive a satisfaction of the “Notice of Lien” that this subconsultant or supplier has been paid in full. If you don’t, it could mean the contractor hasn’t paid them, in which case you could be responsible to pay them yourself. This is just another place to watch out for and hold your contractor accountable.

If you are contemplating having work done on your biggest involvement (your home), we hope you can use this information as a guide. While there are always a few “bad eggs” in the construction community, I believe you’ll find many more quality contractors to choose from for your next East Hill renovation by following these key tips.

Something different.

Moza & Company offers an unrivaled tradition of knowledge, quality and design. Our professional designers work to help define your vision and translate it into selections that reflect your personality. We understand that selecting materials for your space can be overwhelming. Our goal is to make this process a fun and easy experience.

With many unique materials curated from all over the world, we have what you’ve been searching for. Looking for something different?

Fall

REAL ESTATE market update

story by BILL CHAVIS, REALTOR

East Hill has been a desirable place to live since its renaissance in the mid to late 80’s. A favorite pastime of neighbors is to watch market activity and its ups and downs. The ups have been much more prevalent than the downs.

If you bought long ago, you have enjoyed living in East Hill and have made money/equity in the process. For the last year, buyers have been doing almost anything to win bidding wars and secure a home in East Hill. There were many different tools used to achieve results—offering far over asking price, including waiving appraisals, utilizing escalation clauses, paying seller’s fees, and simply paying cash.

Sellers, if they have someplace to go, are making more money than has ever been made in East Hill. Coincidentally, in May 2004 I sold a home that topped $100 per square foot, which was thrilling. Today, the average is $300 per square foot. For top-quality homes, some new builds have even sold for upwards of $340 per square foot.

As anyone who has either tried to purchase or rented a home in East Hill knows, the inventory is almost nonexistent. That further exacerbates the price increases. Lenders are coming out with new products like the “CASH2KEYS” program, which helps buyers who are getting loans stand out as if they were cash buyers, while also allowing them time to sell the home they are leaving.

“

I believe now more than ever that with the current cost of homes, buyers and sellers need to rely on experienced, quality realtors who can protect them and at the same time, increase the opportunity to be satisfied for years to come.

A lot of sellers or potential sellers are faced with the major issue of finding a new home to move to –they have no problem selling their home but great difficulty finding a home to buy. This has prevented many people from selling. Needless to say, there is more to selling a home than meets the eye.

Many people think “The real estate market is so good that you don’t need a realtor to sell your home!” From 2021 until about March of last year, that was probably true. The question was not whether you could sell your home but whether you could net the maximum profit and avoid leaving money on the table. Experience as a realtor tells me that having many prospective buyers vying for a very limited inventory will always lead to higher sales prices than an isolated seller dealing with one buyer.

Though East Hill has always been well known for its desirability, recently the rest of Pensacola has been discovered and blossomed from the sleepy little town that I grew up in. The pandemic unleashed buyers from all over the country who are now free to choose where they live while remotely working. I predict that as long as they are able to keep selling their present homes in much higher valued areas, they will continue to bring their equity to Pensacola, and many will have the ability to easily beat out a Pensacolian working on a local wage that has either no equity or much less than the deep-pocketed outsiders.

The recent doubling of interest rates has caused a sudden change in activity that will even affect those East Hill homes that are not totally rehabilitated to move-in, upgraded quality. I believe now more than ever that with the current cost of homes, buyers and sellers need to rely on experienced, quality realtors who can protect them and at the same time, increase the opportunity to be satisfied for years to come.

article by DOUG HERRICK

SOLAR POWER dealing with doorknockers

For over a decade, I’ve helped East Hill residents like you make the smart switch to solar power. I’m on a mission to advance our community’s transition to solar energy and have completed hundreds of residential and commercial solar installations since founding our local SunFarm Energy business in 2011. Most of all, I love seeing our customers enjoy the energy independence that solar provides.

Despite all the wonderful benefits of solar, there are plenty of companies using tactics that can be a turn off. That’s right, we’re talking about door knockers.

As a Pensacola resident, chances are you’ve had a solar sales rep knock on your door. As the northwest Florida solar market heats up, companies from across the country are jumping at the chance to capture business in our area. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these solar salespeople may not paint the full picture. Going solar is a big decision and can be a significant financial investment. Door knockers are often trained to close business on the same day, which means you’re left scrambling for answers.

When a solar sales representative knocks on your door, make sure you’re asking the right questions, so you’re armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision about solar. continued

1. LEARN ABOUT THE COMPANY

As solar becomes more popular along the Gulf Coast, many companies are moving into the northwestern Florida market from out of state. These businesses come from hundreds of miles away yet claim they’re local or headquartered here. Companies who have a history in our region know the area, the community, and are familiar with the power needs of our residents. Choosing a truly local company is key. Be sure to ask how long the company has been in business, and specifically how long they’ve been serving the Gulf Coast.

• Where is your company based?

• How long have you been serving the Gulf Coast of Florida?

2. INSTALLATIONS & INSTALL CREWS

A reputable solar company will have a vast portfolio of installations to share. However, it’s even better if they have local installations nearby. Ask about the number of systems they’ve installed in your area and see if there’s a system you can visit in person.

It’s also important to inquire about installation crews themselves. Trustworthy companies should have local crews that work specifically for the business rather than contracting out workers from other areas.

• How many installations have you completed in northwest Florida?

• Where was your most recent installation?

• Is there an installation nearby that I could stop by to see in-person?

• Are your solar installers W2 employees of your company?

3. SERVICE AVAILABILITY

Even though solar power systems don’t come with any moving parts, at some point during their lifetime they may need service. This could include uninstalling and reinstalling a system during a roof replacement or encountering unforeseen equipment issues. Always ask any sales reps if their company has a dedicated service department.

• Does your company have a dedicated service department?

• What kind of service does your company offer?

• What is the current turnaround time if I need service on my system?

4. FINANCIAL OPTIONS

Going solar is a big investment and it’s important to be aware of which financing options are available. Ask your door knocker about different terms, qualifications, and their financing partners.

• Does your company offer financing?

• Which financing companies do you work with?

• Do you work with solar specific financing companies?

• What percentage of your customers finance their systems?

• What will my total system cost be with financing?

5. EQUIPMENT & WARRANTIES

A trustworthy solar company should have multiple product options to choose from. This includes panels, racking, inverter systems, and battery storage. Ask your door knocker about their product offerings and equipment warranties. More product options mean you’re more likely to find a solution that’s custom-fit for your power needs.

• How many different types of solar panels do you install?

• What is your most popular panel?

• Does your company offer storage options?

• Which storage options are available?

• What are the warranties on your products?

• What does the warranty cover?

Whether you’re shopping around for solar, or you’ve started a conversation with an installer, be sure to get your questions answered from a trustworthy source. SunFarm Energy provides free customized quotes that fit your energy needs and we work hard to ensure your project is done right. You can find more information about SunFarm Energy and additional solar education tools online at sunfarmenergy.net.

HOME INS shopping tips

article by WILL RENTSCHLER

East Hill has always been the staple of where people in Pensacola want to live. It has so much to offer with being close to the water and downtown. The residents are friendly, familiar, and focused on making it the best place to live. This one-of-a-kind neighborhood also offers such a variety of architecture, making each home unique.

That said, these houses that offer charm, character, and uniqueness don’t always mean great insurance prices or quality of a known carrier. Over the last year, we have seen an unprecedented number of Florida home insurers going insolvent or leave the state. This could be devastating for a consumer who needs insurance NOW. As you make your next purchase of a home, or are just shopping for new home insurance, the information I am going to share should help you be prepared and ready to make the most informed decision.

We all have a budget and desire affordability, but I don’t suggest the cheapest option when purchasing home insurance. Think about it for a second. Aside from your ability to earn income, your house is likely your largest asset. Do you really want the cheapest policy protecting one of the most important items to you and your family? Select a plan that adequately covers your home if there was a total loss. Key words: Total Loss. On your insurance policy, that will be listed as the “dwelling coverage”. The dwelling coverage has nothing to do with the real estate price of your home. It only has to deal with what it would cost to rebuild your house to similar construction. Knowing that and where we are today with increased building costs and inflation, make sure you have the right amount if the unthinkable happened.

Another item to look at is the company you are choosing. Make sure you research the company, how long they have been in business, how much of your premium they set aside in the event of a claim, and whether they’re an “A” rated company. AM Best is the rating agency for the insurance agency. Run a quick search on AM Best (web.ambest.com) for the company(ies) you’re considering, and you should know withing seconds which are fiscally sound and prepared to write you a check when you file a claim.

“

We all have a budget and desire affordability, but do you really want the cheapest policy protecting one of the most important assets?

URANCE

Lastly, when having inspections done on your home, there are many items that decrease your premium, and there are things that can flat out make you ineligible with some carries. When looking at a four-point inspection and wind mitigation inspection, look for the following items:

How much roof life is left on your home? Most insurers want to see over three years.

What type of electrical wiring do I have? Copper is great, but aluminum wiring can make your home ineligible, putting you in a tough spot to rewire your home.

What type of plumbing do you have? If you see polybutylene pipes you are generally going to have pushback from insurance companies, as they prefer copper.

There are also items that can help you gain discounts on your policy, such as a security system and whole-home generator. (Give Adam at Seville Power Equipment a call to get your whole-home generator quote. They also offer exceptional maintenance service and repairs.)

Knowing what I have shared with you today can help save you from purchasing a home that could require $20,000+ in upgrades to become insurable or help you choose the best company for you and your family that fits your budget and has you feeling safe.

Will Rentchler manages a highly-reputable State Farm Agency in East Hill. Check out the Business Directory in the back of this Guide for a full list of local insurance providers.

HOME FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Fire Marshal Annie Bloxson shares important ways to keep our homes safe from fire.

IN THE KITCHEN

Cooking is the number one cause of home fires. Take these steps today to prevent a cooking fire in your home:

▶ Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, broiling, or boiling food.

▶ If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.

▶ Keep things that can burn away from your cooking area.

▶ Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so they won’t get bumped.

SAFE HOME HEATING

Heating is the second leading cause of home fires. You can prevent a heating fire with these simple steps:

▶ Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, portable heaters, and radiators.

▶ When you leave a room or go to bed, turn heaters off or unplug them.

▶ Have your furnace, chimney, and chimney connector inspected by a professional each winter. Make repairs before cool weather sets in.

ELECTRICAL SENSE

DID YOU KNOW?

The Pensacola Fire Department offers the following free services: Smoke Alarm Installations, Car Seat Installations, Home Safety Surveys, & Check-Back Program. Visit their website at PensacolaFire.com or call (850) 436-5200 to schedule.

Follow these safety tips to prevent an electrical fire:

▶ Plug only one heat-producing appliance into the electrical outlet. Never use an extension cord. Examples of heat-producing appliances are: microwave, coffee maker, and portable heater.

▶ Extension cords are for temporary use only.

▶ If you have an electrical cord that is frayed or broken, don’t use it.

HOME PROTECTION

Fire prevention is important, but also make sure you and your home are protected.

▶ Put working smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside and outside sleeping areas.

▶ Test your alarms each month.

▶ Create and practice your home fire escape plan at least twice a year.

SEE SOMETHING, SAY

SOMETHING! If you witness a vehicle burglary or other crime, report it by calling the Police Department—

911 (emergency)

850.435.1900 (nonemergency)

PREVENTING CAR BURGLARIES

Police Chief Eric Randall offers insight into preventing vehicle break-ins.

Over the past years, the Pensacola Police Department (PPD) has been working diligently to address a national trend of vehicle burglaries. What is a vehicle burglary? This offense occurs when someone enters your vehicle to commit a crime, most often theft.

How do you prevent a vehicle burglary? Here are some suggestions that you can do every day to help minimize your chances of becoming a victim.

■ Most burglars look for items of interest that are visible in your car. Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle once you return home, especially overnight.

■ If you must leave valuables in your car while out, place them out of sight from the exterior of your vehicle.

■ Make sure you lock your vehicle every night. Many suspects in this type of crime travel through neighborhoods checking for unlocked doors.

■ Park your vehicle in your garage, if you have one.

■ Park your automobile in a well-lit area.

■ Do not leave extra or spare keys in your car. This can result in the vehicle being stolen and used for other crimes.

■ If you have an alarm system on your vehicle, make sure you activate it.

■ Do not leave your garage door opener in plain sight in your automobile. This could potentially allow criminals to have access to your garage if they discover the opener.

What to do if your vehicle is burglarized:

1. Contact the police as soon as possible to report the incident.

2. Preserve any surveillance footage if your home is equipped with video cameras.

3. Very important! If you see something, you have to say something by contacting PPD immediately.

FRONT YARD GARDENS

article by GREG MILLER

East Hill has tons of avid gardeners and homesteaders with varied garden types. Some are small, hidden away in the backyard, while others are full blown urban farms, encompassing the entire front and back yard (yes, that would be me). We even have families with goats, chickens, and the occasional stray rooster sighting. Each one adds its unique charm to the community while giving us a hobby to enjoy and in many cases a full belly as well. If the many garden sightings have inspired you to start your own, consider these as inspiration to get you energized and going.

NUMBER 1

FRONT YARD FRIENDS

I know it sounds crazy. A garden in your front yard? Well I highly recommend it. With it being in the front, you build community and get to know your neighbors. People will stop and ask you questions and share knowledge about gardening. You can share your produce and flowers with the block. It becomes an icon and inspires more neighbors to join in on the front yard gardening fun.

FRONT YARD 7 tips to start a GARDEN

NUMBER 2

HEALTHY MOVEMENT

I like to think of gardening as natural movement. By starting a garden you will begin using muscles in a natural way that produces health and vitality. Moving also helps lift your spirit when you need a break from the rigors of daily life (especially that nasty sit-ata-computer-all-day-itus). I like to get outside and garden for thirty minutes to an hour in the morning and after dinner to avoid the blood sugar spike of a big meal.

NUMBER 5

FABULOUSLY FRESH

I always tell people, “the best place to store your produce is on the vine or in the ground.” There is nothing better than picking a perfectly ripe tomato from your garden. You can pull fresh carrots for months after you get them going, and greens (such as turnips and kale) can be harvested over and over again as they grow new leaves. This is the best way to get the best freshness and nutrients from your produce.

NUMBER 3

PRETTY IN POSTURE

I suggest laying out your garden in what I call “market garden style” with tight lines. Use wood stakes and ropes or string to get the bed lines straight, while keeping them skinny enough so you can reach. Use natural materials (like wooden poles and string) to build your trellises. By keeping it beautiful, you will want to spend more time there. It will also keep your neighbors happy and engaged.

NUMBER 6

VEGETABLE VARIETY

There is a direct correlation between the health of our gut and the diversity of plants we eat, according to Dr. Will Bulscwiez, author of Fiber Fueled Many fruits and vegetables are not found in the supermarket because they don’t ship and store well. Try growing some unique fruits and veggies like Kohlrabi and Amaranth. Your tummy will love you for introducing these fun new flavors into your diet.

NUMBER 4

GO CRAZY WITH COLOR

Along the lines of keeping it beautiful, add splashes of color throughout your garden by growing different flowers and variegated plants. (My favorites are Zinnias, Marigolds, and Sunflowers.) This makes a striking difference to the look and feel of your garden while inviting in pollinators (a must!) and helping to control pests.

NUMBER 7

A CUE FROM COMPOST

A deep compost mulch system requires just three components— compost, wood chips, and cardboard. I like to build 30-inchwide beds with an 18-inch wood chip path between each. You can also start on a smaller scale using what I call “grow bags” or a raised bed. The key component is nutrient-dense compost and organic fertilizer. ECUA offers a great compost option using recycled yard waste.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ARTS & CULTURE

East Hill Music 

1206 E Cervantes Street 478.320.5913 easthillmusic.com

Mixon Magic 1010 N 12th Avenue #238 850.221.7438 mixonmagic.com

Zayszly Artz American Craft Gallery 2701 N 12th Avenue 850.470.0101

AUTOMOTIVE

East Hill Automotive  2949 N 12th Avenue 850.433.0639 easthillautomotivecenter.com

Muffler Masters 2020 N 9th Avenue 850.434.1010 mufflermasterspensacola.com

Pete Moore Automotive Team  103 N New Warrington Road 850.456.7000 petemoore.com

Rainey’s Shell Gas & Convenience Store 2838 N 12th Avenue 850.857.9611

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Architects & Engineers

Bullock-Tice & Associates Architects 909 E Cervantes Street 850.434.5444 bullocktice.com

Dalrymple Sallis Architecture  503 E Government Street 850.470.6399 dalsal.com

Geci & Associates Engineers Inc. 2950 N 12th Avenue 850.432.2929

Geosyntec Consultants 1120 N 12th Avenue 850.477.6547 geosyntec.com

Rebol Battle & Associates 2301 N 9th Avenue 850.438.0400

SEARCH, Inc. 700 N 9th Avenue 850.607.2846 searchinc.com

Townes + Architects 2421 N 12th Avenue 850.433.0203 facebook.com/townesplus

Contractors & Suppliers

Advanced Construction Services  1550 E Gonzalez Street 850.470.0446 advconstruction.com

CDC Woodworking  101 S Pace Blvd 850.760.2225 cdcwoodworking.com

East Hill Building & Design  1273 E Avery Street 850.341.1600 easthillbuildinganddesign.com

Freeman Roofing  1001 E Cross Street, Unit A 850.393.7853 freemanroofing.com

Highpointe DBR 913 E Gonzalez Street 850.455.0509 highpointedbr.com

JMA Painting Co. 1104 E De Soto Street 850.469.9687

Morette Company 2503 N 12th Avenue 850.432.4084 moretteco.mysites.io

Moza & Company Tile and Stone  200 E Garden Street #3 850.497.6011 mozaandcompany.com

Pensacola Winsupply  3727 N Palafox Street 850.444.9466 winsupplyinc.com

Pool Designs of Florida  4100 Menendez Drive 850.232.3440

SunFarm Energy  1312 E Cervantes Street 850.472.0341 sunfarmenergy.net

Taylor Roofing 1719 North 9th Avenue 850.554.5440 pensacolaroofing.com

CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Education & Childcare East Hill Christian School 1301 E Gonzalez Street 850.438.7746 ehcs.org

Lighthouse Private Christian Academy 625 N 9th Avenue 850.542.7828 lighthousepca.com

Montessori School of Pensacola 1010 N 12th Avenue 850.469.8138 montessoripensacola.com

N.B. Cook Elementary School 1310 N 12th Avenue 850.595.6826 ces-ecstatic-fl.schoolloop.com

OJ Semmes Elementary School 1250 E Texar Drive 850.595.6975 ojses-ecsd-fl.schoolloop.com

Sacred Heart Cathedral School 1603 N 12th Avenue 850.436.6440 shcs.ptdiocese.org

Wee Kare Academy 2901 N 12th Avenue 850.432.4990

Advocacy Gulf Coast Kid’s House 3401 N 12th Avenue 850.595.5800 gulfcoastkidshouse.org

CHURCHES & SYNAGOGUES

B’nai Israel Synagogue 1829 N 9th Avenue 850.433.7311 bnaiisraelpensacola.org

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart  1212 E Moreno Street 850.438.3131 shc.ptdiocese.org

Emanuel Baptist Church 701 W La Rua Street

850.433.0815

First Baptist Church Pensacola  500 N Palafox Street

850.433.5631

fbcp.org

First City Church 1301 E Gadsden Street

850.433.0210 firstcitychurch.org

Gadsden Street United Methodist Church 901 E Gadsden Street

850.433.0014

gadsdenstreetmethodist.com

Jehovah Lutheran Church 2801 N 9th Avenue

850.433.2091 lcms.org

McIlwain Presbyterian Church  1220 E Blount Street

850.438.5449 mcilwain.org

Pensacola Chabad Jewish Center 919 N 12th Avenue

850.291.9600 chabadpensacola.com

St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church  3200 N 12th Avenue

850.433.0074 scpen.org

St. Mark United Methodist Church 2203 N 12th Avenue

850.432.7777 stmarkpensacola.com

Unity of Pensacola 716 N 9th Avenue

850.438.2277

unityofpensacola.org

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

Restaurants & Food Trucks

Bonelli’s Café Italia

1217 N 9th Avenue

850.466.3002

bonelliscafeitalia.com

Brown Bagger Food Truck 2435 N 12th Avenue

850.380.1519

brownbaggerfoodtruck.com

Cactus Flower Café

3425 N 12th Avenue

850.432.8100

cactusflowercafe.net

Café Single Fin

380 N 9th Avenue

850.433.2929 cafesinglefin.com

East Hill Pizza 2030 N 12th Avenue

850.857.9977 easthillpizza.com

End of the Line Café

610 E Wright Street

850.429.0336 eotlcafe.com

Hot Spot Barbecue

901 E La Rua Street

850.497.6060 hotspotbarbecue.com

Ozone Pizza Pub

1010 N 12th Avenue, #111

850.433.7336 ozonepizzapub.com

Pizza Kitchen Restaurant

3012 N 9th Avenue

850.439.5247 pizzakitchenmenu.com

Subway 1020 N 9th Avenue

850.432.8136 subway.com

Taco Bell 1201 E Cervantes Street

850.361.2863 tacobell.com

Tacos Mexicanos 3000 N 12th Avenue

850.291.7195 tacosmexican.com

The Orange Peel Food Truck 1010 N 12th Avenue

850.716.4651 orangepeelin.com

Cafes & Bakeries

Beth’s Bakery Buns

912 E Cross Street 850.208.2246 facebook.com/bethsbakerybuns

Jitterbug Beverage Co.  2050 N 12th Avenue drinkjitterbug.com

J’s Bakery and Cafe 2014 N 12th Avenue 850.439.6546 jsbakeryandcafe.com

Krispy Kreme 980 N 9th Avenue 850.438.4639 krispykreme.com

Le Dough Food Truck 850.380.3606 helloledough.com

Maximilian Coffee Shop 3419 N 12th Avenue 850.432.7900 facebook.com/maximiliancoffee

The Daily Squeeze 901 N 12th Avenue 850.741.3077 thedailysqueezepcola.com

Bars & Breweries Alga Beer Company 2435 N 12th Avenue algabeerco.com

The Burrow, A Neighborhood Biergarten 1010 N 12th Avenue oddcolony.com

The East Hill Bottle Shop 2704 N 12th Avenue 850.466.3505 facebook.com/easthillbottleshop

Wisteria Tavern  3808 N 12th Avenue 850.433.9222 wisteriatavern.com

Markets & Groceries

Publix Supermarket 1100 E Cervantes Street 850.434.3469 publix.com

The Busy Bee Mercantile 3002 N 9th Avenue 850.378.0357 thebusybeemercantile.com

EVENT VENUES & SUPPLIERS

Clubs & Event Venues

American Legion Post 193 2708 N 12th Avenue 850.433.7271 centennial.legion.org

Bayview Community Center 2000 E Lloyd Street 850.436.5190 playpensacola.com

The Garden Center (Pensacola Federation of Garden Clubs) 1850 N 9th Avenue 850.432.6095 pensacolagardencenter.com

Catering & Event Rentals

Classic City Catering 214 W Intendencia Street 850.433.8064 classiccitycatering.com

Gulf Coast Grooves Professional DJ 1615 E Blount Street 850.341.6569 facebook.com/gulfcoastgrooves

Haus of Hop 1001 N De Villiers Street 850.417.9373 hausofhop.com

Portabello Market 3001 N 9th Avenue 850.439.6545 portabellomarket.com

Photographers

Arielle Langhorne Photography 1725 E La Rua Street 850.341.8135 ariellelanghorne.com

PJK Photography 1607 E Cervantes Street, B 850.466.8324 pjkphotography.com

Sarah Coleman Photography 801 N 9th Avenue Unit A 850.288.2113 sarahcolemanphotography.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Fitness & Wellness

12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group  2100 N 12th Avenue 850.432.6870 12thavenuemassage.com

East Hill Massage and Aesthetics 2045 N 12th Avenue 850.332.5527 theeasthillspa.com

Emerald Coast Functional Medicine & Laser LLC 1306 E Cervantes Street, B 850.250.2730 ecfml.com

Empathic Practice 2701 N 12th Avenue 850.777.3334 empathicpractice.com

Five Points Acupuncture & Nutrition 3101 N 12th Avenue, Suite 102 850.637.1548 fivepointshealth.com

Gracie Elite Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 1020 N 9th Avenue, Suite A 850.285.9670 rgapensacola.com

Lifestyle Medicine Wellness and Recovery  5009 Barranca Lora lifestylemedicinewellnessandrecovery.com

Picked at Perfection  1807 W Cross Street 404.918.0819 pickedatperfection.com

Wild Lemon Studios 904 E Scott Street 850.760.2783 wildlemonstudios.com

Yoga Abode  4100 Menendez Drive 850.529.0699 iamabode.com

Zelkatrain LLC Personal Training 2504 Gulf Breeze Avenue 610.256.6931 zelkatrain.com

Healthcare & Medical

Asencion Sacred Heart Reumotology 2441 N 9th Avenue #4 850.434.9992 healthcare.ascension.org

Baptist Medical Group Ladies First OBGYN 3417 N 12th Avenue 850.432.7310 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Coastal Vein Institute & Aesthetic Center 2301 N 9th Avenue, Suite 100 850.479.1805 coastalvi.com

Community Health of Northwest FloridaPediatric Care at 12th Avenue 2510 N 12th Avenue 850.471.0508 healthcarewithinreach.org

Coram Health Care 3439 N 12th Avenue 850.469.4573 coramhc.com

East Hill Clinic 1221 E De Soto Street 850.437.9997 easthillclinicpensacola.com

East Hill Pharmacy  2899 N 12th Avenue 850.438.7568 easthillpharmacyinc.com

Gulf Breeze Apothecary  1177 Gulf Breeze Pkwy 850.677.9340 gulfbreezeapothecary.com

Gulf Coast Hearing Center 1901 N 9th Avenue 850.285.0071 gulfcoasthearing.com

Gulf Coast Podiatry 1851 N 9th Avenue 850.434.9867 gulfcoastpodiatrypensacola.com

Gulf Coast Vision Center Optometry 800 N 12th Avenue 850.912.4222 gulfcoastvisioncenter.com

Henry Chiropractic 1823 N 9th Avenue 850.435.7777 drcraighenry.com

LabCorp 3437 N 12th Avenue 850.434.0345 labcorp.com

Mended Wing Counseling 1011 N 12th Avenue 850.250.1441 mendedwingcounseling.com

ONEBLOOD 2209 N 9th Avenue 850.434.2535 oneblood.org

Performance Prosthetics & Orthotics 3010 N 12th Avenue 850.607.6126 performancepo.com

Safe Harbor Pregnancy Medical Center 2280 N 9th Avenue 850.439.2511 safeharborpmc.org

Studer Children’s Hospital (Annex) 1 Bubba Watson Drive 850.416.7000 studerfamilychildrenshospital.com

White Smiles General Dentistry 1108 N 12th Avenue C 850.912.8877 whitesmiles.us

Salons & Spas 10th Avenue Hair Designs 1000 E Cervantes Street 850.433.5207 10thavenuehair.com

2151 Salon & Gallery 2151 N 9th Avenue 850.432.2151

B Beautiful East Hill 2900 N 12th Avenue 850.290.3232 bvirtualhealth.com/bbeautiful

Beautique The Salon at East Hill 1010 N 12th Avenue, #122

850.503.0547

Beyond Ink Permanent Cosmetics LLC 1010 N 12th Avenue, Suite 105

850.736.4984

beyondinkpermanentcosmetics.com

Chastain’s Salon and Spa

2900 N 12th Avenue

850.435.9935

chastainsalon.com

De Novo Salon

3435 N 12th Avenue

850.912.8826

denovoday.com

Design 9 Hair Studio

1116 N 9th Avenue

850.434.2828

East Hill Barber Shop 2515 N 12th Avenue

850.293.6051

East Hill Nail Spa

3014 E Cervantes Street

850.542.4169

easthillnailspa.setmore.com

Izzo Hair & Co 801d N 9th Avenue

850.677.8017

izzohair.com

Montage Salon

2040 N 12th Avenue

850.898.3838

montagesalonpensacola.com

MY SALON Suite 2590 N 12th Avenue

850.332.3812

mysalonsuite.com

Solian 900 E Cross Street

850.449.8544

facebook.com/solianpensacola

LEGAL & FINANCIAL SERVICES

Accounting & Financial Firms

Bill Agall Certified Public Accountant

2101 N 9th Avenue

850.438.2863

John Scott Public Accountant 901 E Yonge Street

850.432.0775

Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund

900 N 12th Avenue

850.435.8300

saltmarshcpa.com

Scott Hamilton CPA  900 E Avery Street

850.429.1205

Weston P. Cramer - Equitable Advisors 1517 N 9th Avenue

850.470.2424 westoncramer.equitableadvisors.com

Law Firms

Artice L. McGraw Attorney at Law

820 N 12th Avenue

844.531.8680 articelmcgraw.com

Barrowset & Keene Attorneys at Law

1622 N 9th Avenue

850.438.3111 berosetkeene.com

Cardoso Law, PLLC 917 N 12th Avenue 850.466.2073 cardosolawyer.com

JJ Talbott Attorney at Law 900 E Moreno Street 850.437.9600 jjtalbottpersonalinjurylawyer.com

Kirkland, McGhee & Gann Law Firm

1801 N 9th Avenue 850.322.6120 kirkland-mcghee.com

Lois B. Lepp PA 902 E Gadsden Street

850.435.1090 lbl-law.com

McKenzie Law Firm 905 E Hatton Street 850.432.2856 mckenzielawfirm.com

Ortiz Law Firm 316 S Baylen Street, Suite 590 850.990.2135 nickortizlaw.com

Waddell & Waddell Attorneys at Law 1108 N 12th Avenue

850.434.8500 waddellandwaddell.com

William Fisher Attorney at Law 1010 N 12th Avenue #301 850.433.1717

Woodward and Warren, PLLC 912 E Btainerd Street 850.439.0011

PET CARE

Concerned Canines 251.458.2876 facebook.com/concernedk9

East Hill Animal Hospital 805 E Gadsden Street 850.437.9932 easthillanimalhospital.com

East Hill Dog Walking Co.  850.232.5175

facebook.com/easthilldogwalkingco

Happy Paws Pensacola 850.529.8830 happypawspensacola.net

Posh Pup Grooming & Dog Training 3005 N 9th Avenue 850.471.8994 poshpuponline.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Marketing & Design

CleverOgre 707 E Cervantes Street, Suite B #153 850.912.4203 cleverogre.com

Denney Agency 1009 E Strong Street 601.917.4096 denneyagency.com

Helm & Forge 335 W Chase Street 850.519.7888 helmandforge.com

Logo Motion 1125 E Cross Street 850.434.1084 thelogomotion.com

Maximus Web Business 901 N 14th Avenue 850.407.1242

facebook.com/maximuswebbusiness

Media & Technology

CPC Office Technology 910 E. Cervantes Street 850.432.1580 cpctek.com

Digital Boardwalk 1457 N 9th Avenue 855.350.2225

digitalboardwalk.com

Momentous Films 1507 E La Rua Street 850.450.3135 momentusfilms.com

Technologies For Tomorrow Inc. 1106 N 9th Avenue 850.478.5222

tftcomputers.com

Other Professional Services

Dune Doctors LLC 1020 E Cervantes Street 866.386.3737 dunedoctors.com

Emerald Coast Consultants 1817 E Lloyd Street 850.290.2092 emeraldcoastconsultants.com

RESIDENTIAL/REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Agents

Bill Chavis - RE/MAX Horizons Realty  850.501.0771 easthillbill.com

Donna Dickey - Conna O’Donovan Real Estate 850.529.0699 pensacolahomelistings.com

Emerald Coast Realty Pros (Chris Reid, Realtor)  125 W Romana Street, Suite 620 850.485.3575 gibbons-realty.com

Hess Realty Group  1312 E Cervantes Street 850.477.7050 hessrealtypensacola.com

Jennifer Passeretti - Levin Rinke Realty 850.266.4808 jenisellsthecoast.com

Kuhn Realty  1718 N 9th Avenue 850.266.7557 kuhnrealty.com

KW Homes 1304 E Brainerd Street 850.418.1757 kwhomes.com

Pamela L Smith, Realtor  5101 N 12th Avenue, Suite A 850.516.7809 pamlsmith.com

The Wade Team | EXP Realty  1807 E Lee Street 904.254.0636 waderealtors.com

Tower East Group, Inc.  1010 N 12th Avenue, Unit 201 850.432.8900 towereastgroup.com

Insurance Agencies

Allstate Insurance, David E. Seckinger Jr. 1117 N 9th Avenue 850.469.8082 allstate.com

Colonial Life Pensacola 1010 N 12th Avenue, Suite 228 850.912.8317

Hiles McLeod Insurance 1900 N 9th Avenue 850.432.9912 hubinternational.com

John Kizziah State Farm Agency  4300 Bayou Blvd, Suite 23 850.477.8100 jkizziah.com

Julian Darden State Farm 1521 N 9th Avenue 850.417.8963 dardeninsurance.com

Steve Mayer Insurance 2150 N 9th Avenue 850.434.7458 stevemayerinsurance.com

Underwood Anderson Insurance 2302 N 9th Avenue 850.434.5526 underwoodanderson.com

White Sands Insurance Agency 1306 E Cervantes Street 251.504.4454

Will Rentschler State Farm 1301 E Cervantes Street 850.433.4678 willrentschler.com

Lenders & Title Companies

Draper and Kramer Mortgage  13 Palafox Place, Suite 200 850.329.0951 dkmortgage.com

Allure Title Company 1307 E Cervantes Street 850.332.5201 alluretitle.com

Attorney’s Title Services LLC 917 N 12th Avenue 850.972.9919

Knight Barry Title 1015 N 12th Avenue 850.912.8720 knightbarry.com

Partnership Title Co. LLC 1015 N 12th Avenue 850.912.8720 gshattorneys.com

Surety Land Title of Florida 2600 N 12th Avenue 850.549.2272 suretyland.com

University Lending Group 3439 N 12th Avenue, Unit C 850.912.8002 university-lending.com

Home & Lawn Maintenance

American Lock & Safe 1011 E Gonzalez Street 850.476.4211 americanlocksafe.com

Easy Green Lawn Service LLC 850.462.5789 ydbk.co/124925

Pensacola Estate Sale Team 1326 E Gadsden Street 850.516.2425 pensacolaestatesaleteam.com

Irrigation Engineering 930 E Lloyd Street 850.433.9209

Ray Conti Heating & Air 1409 E Cervantes Street 850.516.7009

Tile installation LLC 1525 E Gadsden Street 727.687.5159

SHOPPING & RETAIL

Gifts & Antiques

Angel’s Garden  1208 N 12th Avenue 850.435.9555 facebook.com/angelsgarden

Belle Ame 911 North 12th Avenue 850.912.8240 bellame.com

Celebration’s The Florist 717 N 12th Avenue 850.433.2022 celebrationstheflorist.com

Just Judy’s Flowers 2509 N 12th Avenue 850.436.4003 justjudysflowers.com

The Cabana Chandler  1002 E La Rua Street 308.763.8383 facebook.com/thecabanachandler

Toad Hall Antiques & Gifts 850.542.7548 toadhallantiques.com

Furniture & Interiors

Aqua Decor & Designs 1320 N 9th Avenue

850.912.4744 aquadecoranddesigns.com

Dee McDavid Interiors 3000 N 12th Avenue

850.470.0001 deemcdavid.com

Duh for Garden & Home  501 N 9th Avenue 850.439.0640 duhpensacola.com

In Detail Interiors 1514 N 9th Avenue

850.437.0636 indetailinteriors.com

Julie Hancy Interior LLC 801 N 19th Avenue 850.454.4571

Lansing Upholstery and Fabrics 1020 N 9th Avenue, Unit B 850.206.1771

Other Retail/Miscellaneous

All About Ink Tattoos 2020 N 9th Avenue 850.607.6665 allaboutinktattoos.com

Bella Quilting 1911 E Blount Street 850.435.6794 bellaquilting.com

Herff Jones 1108B N 12th Avenue 866.238.5336 herffjones.com

Just Plain Putter 2620 N 12th Avenue 850.432.8992

Pensacola Pops Comics 909 N 12th Avenue 850.465.3288 pensacolapopcomics.com

Revolver Records 9 E Gregory Street 850.712.6373 facebook.com/Revolverfl

Seville Power Equipment East Hill  2601 N 12th Avenue 850.432.8856 sevillepowereasthill.com

SoBo Boutique 512 N 9th Avenue 850.434.0258 thesoboboutique.com

Trek Bicycle Store 701 E Cervantes Street 850.912.6858 trekbikes.com

Unity Metaphysical Book Store 716 N 9th Avenue 850.438.2277

Vick’s Cleaners 1122 N 9th Avenue 850.432.2495 vicksdrycleaners.com

Waterboyz Surf & Skate Shop 380 N 9th Avenue 850.433.2929 waterboyz.com

neighborhood guide INQUIRIES

a note from THE EDITOR

From all of us at the East Hill Neighborhood Association, we hope you enjoyed the first ever East Hill Neighborhood Guide. If you’re interested in getting involved with the next edition, we want to hear from you! Specifically, we’re looking for:

• Advertisers - Ads start at just $250! With a publication reach of over 8,000 local residents and businesses, advertisement revenue not only helps offset design and printing costs but also supports other Association initiatives, including community events and park improvements.

• Businesses - Let us know if you’d like to be added to the directory or have a correction to your listing. Keep in mind that your business doesn’t have to be located in East Hill to be included, you just have to serve it. Also consider becoming an Association Business Member for additional recognition along with other great benefits.

• Contributors - Have an idea for content? We’re all ears! We’re always looking for engaging writers, editors, photographers, and fact-checkers to help us build this guide.

The best way to reach us is by emailing info@myeasthill.org. Thanks, neighbor!

hill word search

putting new power in POWER EQUIPMENT

As a proud East Hill neighborhood business, Seville Power Equipment brings you the best in outdoor power equipment home generators, repairs and more. Our dealership has a rock solid reputation of providing excellent service, support and satisfaction. We pride ourselves on giving our customers the best service available, the best parts and accessories, and a staff that understands all aspects of our business. We choose to sell some of the highest quality equipment on the market, including ECHO, eXmark, and Briggs & Stratton. All of our products are tried, tested, and proven to be high in performance and low in maintenance, with some of the best warranties around.

Our team of mechanics is also on-call to quickly respond to your servicing and repair needs. We offer parts and services for nearly every product on the market, from power equipment to RV generators, and everything in between. Stop in and see why your neighbors love coming to Seville Power Equipment.