VIP Pensacola - April 2023

Making a Difference

As I stroll through the card aisle, I can’t help but notice the vast array of cards available for every occasion imaginable. From holidays to weddings, birthdays to congratulations, there seems to be a card for every important day in the lives of my loved ones. However, as I peruse the shelves, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of man-made celebrations that have been created solely to sell more cards. Grandparents Day, Siblings Day, Bosses Day - the list goes on and on. I nd myself struggling to remember all of these occasions without resorting to a quick internet search. But there is one month that stands out in my mind - April. Not because of any manufactured holiday, but because it is National Poetry Month. This month holds a special place in my heart, thanks to one man - Don McCartney. Mr. McCartney was my Literature teacher during my junior year of high school. He was a man who loved teaching, and his passion for his craft shone through in every lesson.

I remember eagerly anticipating his class each day, excited to learn new words and explore the world of poetry. Mr. McCartney greeted each of us by name with a warm smile, and his enthusiasm for teaching was infectious. Even when he mispronounced my name, I didn’t mind – the other kids would snicker, and one day he gured it out. When he realized his mistake, he took the time to apologize and make me feel special by calling me by my last name, for the rest of the year I was Ms. Parsons.

Don McCartney made a difference in my life that year. He taught me the power of words and how they can uplift and inspire others. And while I may not remember all of the manufactured holidays that ll the card aisle, I will always remember National Poetry Month and the impact that one teacher had on my life.

I rmly believe that sharing our time, knowledge, and thoughts with others is far more valuable than simply giving a card. “Let us aspire to make a positive impact on people’s lives every day.”

As you read the April issue you will be engaged with the people in Pensacola who give to charities, host non pro t events and dinners. These people are making a difference in the lives of many people in Pensacola.

If you know of a non-pro t or charity holding an event you would like to see featured in VIP Pensacola, please call me. Our mission at VIP Pensacola is to support as many non-pro t causes as possible. Follow VIP Pensacola on our social media channels and follow me on Facebook @VerlaParsonsPrice.

Thank YOU for supporting VIP Pensacola; please be kind, courteous, and shop local.

Verla@VIPPensacola.com

Be on the lookout for our VIP Pensacola Ambassadors, Shelley & Steve Black, at area events.

Top Gun Gala

The Women’s Council of Realtors Pensacola Bay Area hosted the 2023 Top Gun Gala on February 25. The Top Gun award winners were recognized during an evening of celebration, exquisite dinner, and music at the Pensacola Country Club. Posh gold décor embellished the venue, as well as the sparkling gowns and dapper tuxedoes donned by attendees. The event’s theme was ‘Reach for the Stars’ as the evening kicked off with prayer and the pledge of allegiance, followed by the introduction of dignitaries and a toast by the former president.

Those being recognized included the top producers, as their closest colleagues, friends and families celebrated these esteemed realtors. Alexis Bolin stated, “We’re excited to have everyone here to honor our top producers”.

Dr. Martha Saunders, President of the University of West Florida delivered the keynote address. The event was attended by leaders of Women’s Council of Realtors of Florida (WCR) as well, who noted the impact of the Pensacola Bay Area WCR, including providing leadership development, training, networking, mentorship, and camaraderie.

photos & story by Summer Breeze

Bob & Patty Helton-Davis

Nan Harper & John Pinzino

Olesya Chatraw & Tina Dreyer

Victoria Pitts & Nichole Sims

Erin Vaughn & Kim Anderson

Marty Stanovich & Dr. Martha Saunders Elena Barba, Morgan McCoy & Ashleigh McLean

VIP Pensacola at 2023 Top Gun Gala

Stepfon & Bridgette Williams

Christie Miller, Zack & Julie Wood

Milla Matlock & Amy Wise

Michelle & Phil Salzman

Summer Breeze & Nicole Partridge

Brigette & Larry Brooks

Mike Dollen, Alexis Bolin & Charlie Rotenberry

Kevin & Alison Houghton

Becky Wagner & La Dawn Singelton

Dallas Skornia & Dan Raab

Ramani & Mark Cantrell, Jeff Phelps

St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl

Hundreds of pub crawlers woke up early on March 17 to participate in the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl. All attendees were invited to wear green for the occasion. The annual pub crawl took a lucky route for all who dared to participate and visited 12 beach bars, restaurants and hotels who served up drink specials, music, mayhem and mischief, and pub crawl t-shirts made available at each location. The fun began at 9 a.m. at Crabs, We Got ‘Em, where everyone had the

opportunity to load up on a hardy breakfast of sausage links, grits, oven baked potatoes, fresh scrambled eggs, and plenty of adult beverages. While everyone celebrated Irish culture and traditions, the St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl was for a good cause, it was held in memory of event founder Mr. John Patrick “Paddy” Blake. This fundraising event bene ted the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce, a non-pro t corporation that will donate a portion of the “pot of gold” to Covenant Care in his name.

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

Nash Williams & Alicia Smotherman

Brandon Beecher & Jason Walker

Lori & Andy Ryan

Tamara Kordik, Taylor Kordik, Randy Willard, Lori Woolsey, Jack & Jeanie Greene, Brian Polka

Becca Tavenner & Gloria Woolever

Mike & Cathy Silvani, Mark Beckerman, Bridget & Hank Hangsleben

Jack Strother & Aileiah Clarke

April 5-24

Nominate your favorites in each category.

Nominate Daily starting on April 5

WHO DO YOU THINK DESERVES THE TITLE BEST IN PENSACOLA?

NOW IS YOUR CHANCE TO CAST YOUR NOMINATION!

OVER 150 CATEGORIES BALLOT AVAILABLE ONLINE

VOTE ONLINE! VIP PENSACOLA .COM 2017

WWW.VIPPENSACOLA.COM

From April 5-24, nominate your favorites in a variety of categories. Remember to nominate daily because entries with the most nominations in each category will move on to the official Best In Pensacola ballot in May.

Christian Healthcare: being Christian-based is critical in our mission to provide the highest quality healthcare. Residents will enjoy our optional daily bible study, Sunday church services and Christian sing-a-longs.

Affordable Prices: All Inclusive: 3 meals, snacks, medication management, housekeeping, activities, cable, wi-fi (no hidden cost).

Highly Trained Staff: specially for dementia residents, 24/7 assistance and care. As well as fully functioning security cameras inside our facility to enable WMC to remotely monitor our residents ensuring their health and safety.

Convenience: to hospitals, shopping centers and restaurants

Financial Programs: VA, long term, and others

Daily Living Assistance: Along with individually assisting in personal hygiene, our housekeeping staff does an incredible job to ensure cleanliness. Each member of our staff is also trained to accommodate the needs of difficult behaviors.

Beautiful Surroundings: A calm mind begins with peaceful surroundings. Our landscaping crew does an outstanding job of maintaining our lawns and foliage. Relax both inside and out where fresh air is accompanied by beautiful resting areas.

Casie Harris

“Taking Care of ose Who Took Care of Us.”

Family Owner/CEO

Tyrah Young Marketing Director

Shevonne Brown Administrator

Synthia King Assistant Administrator Teresa Moffett Healthcare Coordinator

Grow it… Find it… Eat it

article by Steve R. Black

As a kid growing up on a small farm just a couple of miles North of the paper mill in Cottage Hill, we grew just about everything we consumed. Proper country living suited me well. I absolutely loved venturing into our large garden to find nature’s bounty. To me it was like treasure hunting. Often, in early summer, I would simply miss seeing a cucumber or squash the day before and almost trip over it the next day as they seemed to grow that fast. Much of the food that ended up on our dinner table was raised, grown, or caught.

Fast forward about 5 decades to that country boy having sold his part of the family farm, I still carry those experiences very closely. Eating well has always been a passion. Throughout my marriage to my beautiful wife, this love of food morphed into its own thing. I found that creating in the kitchen is where I can briefly lose myself. Give me a well-stocked refrigerator, an herb garden, and a nice glass of vino and I will cook us something nice to eat.

No doubt gardens are not ubiquitous in our urban areas, but they are present, and in many forms. I have observed several residents near me that have turned their front yard into what appears to be almost a community garden. I often joke that these city farmers may wish to head to the north part of the county. However, I still have the influence of my upbringing intact and even though I relocated from the farm years ago, at a minimum, I have always had an herb garden at hand. With very little effort I can enjoy its bounty. At a time when the cost of fresh herbs and produce almost always surprises me it’s nice not to have to reach for them in the supermarket.

During the recent pandemic, over 18 million more people in the U.S. started some sort of gardening activities, with the surprising majority being millennials. During this unprecedented time, online sales of gardening related items doubled. Research has been conducted that has found that 4 out of 5, 18–34-year-olds think gardening is cool (I am a little surprised). I have no doubt that we are wired to embrace and connect with activities that take us back to simpler things…. especially now!

I often have friends that tell me they kill everything they try to grow and simply have a brown thumb. I do not concur. Photosynthesis is magical and any one of us can grow things. Most plant life is pretty forgiving providing you water often and provide adequate sunlight. Around 6 hours of direct sunlight will be sufficient. A nice basil plant inside your home on a kitchen table away from direct sunlight will soon fade. However, too little, or too much water is the quickest way to sentence a plant to death. Use your finger to determine moisture. Wet the soil thoroughly when watering and then let the soil become almost dry (several days) before adding more. If your finger test detects soil to be wet, do not add more water. Ultimately, like animals, plants are programmed to survive. If you want to grow things, you will mess up and through this effort you will gain the common knowledge that green thumbs share.

“I have found that the visual impact of fresh herbs and edible flowers in the dishes I prepare elevates the experience and encourages me to put more effort into the quality of the dish and not the quantity.”

If you don’t have the space to create a vegetable/herb garden, you may want to consider simply a container garden. Just a few containers on a patio, and you will be surprised at the amount of produce you may get. Be sure and have a plan on what this will look like. A few larger pots that are nice to look at are far better than a patio or other space that is simply littered with all things gardening. You may even designate a part of your landscape to create attractive raised beds or go directly into the ground. Whatever path you choose, do some simple planning to achieve a desirable look and feel. The idea is that others see what you have created as a positive impact, thus adding value to the space. It’s springtime… grow something!

Questions or comments: Steveblack1986@gmail.com

Brown Thumb or Green Thumb?

Eat the Flowers!

Steve R. Black Practicing Agronomist and Landscape Design along the Gulf Coast for 36 years

Almost every recipe can benefit from some type of edible flower garnish. A short list of common edible flowers:

Hibiscus Impatiens

Violas/Pansies

Begonias

Roses

Snap Dragons

Lavender

White Yucca Flowers

Squash Blossoms

Society Garlic Dianthus

Daylily Blossoms

Nasturtiums and many more!

Herbs that grow well in our area:

Thyme *. - Cooking Bay

Rosemary * - Lemon Grass

Mexican Tarragon - Lavender

French Tarragon (Spring is best). - Dill Chives. - Cilantro

Pineapple Sage - Basil Sage *. - Mint

Parsley

Oregano

* Mulch these herbs with rock pebbles or ground pine bark to help keep them healthy. Keeping the soil from bouncing up on their leaves not only keeps the leaves clean but, reduces the disease pressure in our hot, humid summers.

Read Across Pensacola Day Proclamation

The Pensacola Association of Realtors (PAR) and Ruthie Christie Noel, Executive Director of ReadyKids!, joined together to embark on a ve-hour culinary tour to sample eight various restaurants downtown on March 2, all in support of ReadyKids! Attendees enjoyed sampling different foods, drink specials, and networking at this event. This non-pro t is focused on early childhood literacy and skills to better prepare children in our community, from kindergarten and beyond. The tour began and ended at Seville Quarter where many friends and Realtors witnessed the signing of a “Read Across Pensacola Day” proclamation by Mayor D.C. Reeves. This day and every year on this day will be celebrated for generations to come. “Thank-you to our incredible community for showing up and supporting our mission at ReadyKids! through the Culinary Tour for a Cause, PAR, and Read Across Pensacola Community Celebration. I am continuously amazed at the generosity of Escambia County,” said Ruthie Christie Noel. Lalla T. Pierce also commented, “The positive impact ReadyKids! is making on kindergarten readiness and early literacy in our area is profound. As an educator, I am grateful for the work they are doing, with the support of our entire community.” Lastly, there were special closing remarks by D.C. Reeves, Lalla T. Pierce, Marty Stanovich, Payton Kee Anderson, and Kimmy Warr. The goal for 2022 – 2023 school year is to raise $95,000 and they are well on their way with 82% raised prior to this event. Culinary Tour for a Cause gets ReadyKids! closer to that goal.

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

LaJon Dale & Mike Brustad

Alex Smith & Aimee Dumas

Karen Krasnosky, Cindy Mathis, Conna O’Donovan, Cheryl Young, Charley Young, Vinny Matassa, Tammy Harris & Renee Wilhoit

Marty Stanovich & Mayor D. C. Reeves

Michelle Frasen & Paige Rust

Dan Gullahorn, Dennis Remesch, Charlie Rotenberry, Travis Crow, Jonathon Scull & Grey Burge

Kristi Black & Stephanie Gonzalez

Lori Anderson, Kim Cook, Maura Cassady, Lauren Monforton, Sydnee Johnson, Ashley Ormsby & Victoria Pitts

Steve Moorhead, Nikki Clardy, Karen Way, Pennye Putman & Zach Noel

Kevin & Donna Ward Jim Richmond, Kathy Short & Karen Cosgrove Joe Leccese & Verla Price

Kalani Morris, Wisdom Renaud, Katin Davis, Sara Davis, Pam Gaines & Thomas Leemon

Kristy Hintz, Anthony Taylor & Patricia Hintz

Good Morning Pensacola

The Pensacola Chamber hosted Good Morning Pensacola on March 3. Over 90 attendees gathered at Scenic Hills Country Club for the event sponsored by One Digital Health and Bene ts. The buffet and beverages were enjoyed as well as the Scenic Hills view.

“This breakfast is an amazing way to kick start your Friday! I love connecting with the business community and meeting new people who are looking to make an impact and grow their network. I appreciate learning about local nonpro ts and community events,” shared Cheryl Murphy, Chamber Ambassador.

Attendees were welcomed by Matt Simpson with a spirited March Madness style friendly competition. Todd Thomson, President/CEO, shared upcoming signature events that members won’t want to miss. The Small Business of the Month, Four Winds Fine Foods, highlighted new ownership and their exclusive selection of food and beverages. Favor House, a certi ed domestic violence center serving Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties was featured in the Nonpro t Spotlight.

Lee Martin & Chad Rich, of One Digital Health and Bene ts provided an overview of economic and employment trends impacting local businesses. Current workforce strategies are shifting to meet today’s business climate and staf ng challenges.

photos & story by Nicole Partridge

Marina Turner & Jeri Cox

Kirk Waters & Briana Wigley

Willa Licata, Patti Mohan & Darra Flanagan

eannie Hanson & Polly hitfield

Brooke hitworth & Chad Rich

Steve Kerr, Cheryl Murphy & Fran Crumpton

VIP Pensacola at Good Morning Pensacola

Kim Lamontagne & Barbara MacNeil

Kevin Lemasters & Todd Thomson

Lauren Presley & Mel Knowlton

Rob Schell & Jim Fitzpatrick

Danial Hemme & Daniel Pennington

Eddie Murray & Quinn Breaux

Lillian Burns & Eva Zheng

Mark Sapp & Chris McKinney

Jamie Lapointe & Bradley Davis, Jr.

Valerie Boyd & Susan Amburg

Wayne Lin & Juanita Harvin

Business Profile

At an early age, Elodie Cardon loved selling and looking at antiques. She likes to say, “It’s not the diploma in our field that counts, it is how many pieces you’ve looked at in your life and how your eyes recognize fake from authentic, and very good from average.” Elodie became an ISA Personal Property Appraiser in 2000 so she could aid her previous employer in Palm Beach with writing appraisals appropriate for legal and IRS situations.

Elodie Cardon was born in Lyon, France. Her father was a gynecologist and her mother, an antiques dealer. Elodie’s father passed away, she was only 16. At 21 years old, she and her mom moved to the USA to start a new adventure. After working in Palm Beach, Elodie started looking for a new town to open her own business. She chose Pensacola for Cardon Estate Sales & Appraisals. She honeymooned here with Zane Price, her husband, 28 years ago. She had been attracted by the small town feel, which reminded her of the French town where she grew up right outside of Lyon. It took time and hard work to build a reputation among the locals. However, it paid off and she’s now been in business for 18 years. She says God had a plan and there is a reason why she returned here, as she has been reunited with Zane two years ago after 25 years apart.

Cardon Estate Sales is not your grandmother’s estate sale. Elodie is looking to change the stigma. Her goal is to offer estate sales with interesting and unusual items. At Cardon Estate Sales, you can shop for gently used furniture, cars, boats, estate jewelry, furs, fishing items, electronics, green eggs, tools, designer handbags, and clothing and more. They offer antiques and fine art on a regular basis as well.

Shopping estate sales is a great way to buy if you are a savvy shopper. Customers can buy better quality without the sticker shock of a high-end store for a fraction of the price. Also, if you are conscious of your environmental footprint, buying estate items saves resources and promotes sustainability.

Since Covid, Cardon Estate Sales have altered the way they do business and offer alternatives to the in-person experience and are now offering online purchases. You can buy from the comfort of your home by a simple phone call or text. Professional deliveries are available at reasonable fees.

The team at Cardon Estate Sales makes the experience fun. They love what they do, and their enthusiasm shows!

photo by Summer Breeze

CARDON ESTATE SALES provides the following services:

*Estate Sales: They handle every aspect of the in-home sale, from start to finish. They organize all the contents of the home, price every item, and advertise extensively. They then host a well-attended estate sale. After the sale, you receive a check for the proceeds and an entirely cleaned-out home.

*Appraisals: They provide a full range of appraisal services and guide you through the appraisal process. These appraisals can be performed for damage claims, divorce division, donations, estate division, insurance appraisals, insurance claims, IRS assets, personal property appraisals, pre-move appraisals, and tax-deductible gifts.

*Certified appraisals performed are Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)-compliant for IRS purposes.

*Consulting: They can assist you with selling specialty items, such as antiques and art, jewelry, cars and more.

*Compassion: They are committed to supporting their clients during important life changes and transitions.

*Effectiveness: They are a 15-year market leader in the estate sale industry through their use of the latest techniques in marketing, sales, service, and technology.

*Integrity: They value the philosophy of “doing what is right, even when no one is looking.”

*Professionalism: They pride themselves in providing engaging, personal service, clean, organized estate sales, and neat, knowledgeable team members.

*Respect: They treat their clients and team members with the esteem that they deserve.

CARDON ESTATE SALES VALUES:

photo by Summer Breeze

Do Your

Laundry with Love

Tyler Laundry Scents are fine laundry and detergent dryer sachets in the most popular scents from Tyler Candle Company, specially formulated to clean e ectively yet remain gentle. Perfect for delicate laundry items such as:

• Linens

• Lingerie

• Fine fabrics

Tyler Glamour Wash is HE washing machine compatible

7400 Pine Forest Road, Pensacola 850-941-4444 | SouthernGardensFlorist.com

Cover Reveal Party

VIP Pensacola Magazine hosted their exclusive Cover Reveal Party at Drift restaurant on Pensacola Beach on March 7. The evening was perfect as the venue overlooked the stunning Gulf and Pensacola Beach shing pier. Laughs and camaraderie among old and new friends swirled in the salty air as the event kicked off with a delectable assortment of nger foods, ne wine, and a plethora of drink options. The warm ambiance, lively music, and beautiful people lling the space created a fun atmosphere to celebrate the newest cover couple, Suze & Brian Finger.

Associate Publisher Verla Price personally thanked everyone for their continued support throughout the years and shared her enthusiasm for upcoming issues.

“At VIP, we are thrilled to host exclusive cover reveal parties as a token of gratitude to our friends and business associates for their unwavering support towards our magazine.

These events provide a networking opportunity for our guests to mingle and connect while enjoying a sneak peek of the latest issue before it hits the stands,” said Verla.

The evening concluded with Stephanie Alvarez drawing names for incredible prizes donated by local businesses.

photos & story by Summer Breeze

Mary & Matt Gamble

Chae Kyle & Rachel Mock

Nisarg & Katie Parikh

Verla Price & Bobby Emmons

Will Morris & Stephanie Alvarez

arissa Greenfield & Chloe Greenfield

Shelley & Steve Black

ill Andrusko & Caitlyn unoz al ason & Candy Prince

avid & Lucia Greenfield

Lori & Scott Davis Blair & Summer Rushing

Tre Rogers & James Hutto

Danny Herman & Kevin Houghton

Patti Hall & Derek Stephens

David Bushing & Katie Beargie

Alyssa Gryb & Chip Wood

Suzie Martin & Casie Harris

Onna Thompson, Alison Houghton & Steve Kerr

Adam Grobmyer, Nadia Smith & Andrea Myers

Amber Casart & Kaylee Franklin

Denise Song & Cheri Hlubek

Brian Rairdon & Shannon Harold

‘Champions’ ARC Gateway Movie

The Breeze movie theater In Gulf Breeze, along with Jeremey Jadallah and his wonderful staff, opened their hearts and their doors for the premier showing of the movie ‘Champions’ on March 9. The Breeze served drinks and hot fresh popcorn for over 200 intellectually and developmentally disabled moviegoers of all ages to be the rst to view and enjoy the movie starring Woody Harrelson, Kaitlin Olson, Cheech Marin, and Bobby Farrelly. Pensacola State Assistant Coach Sagar Kapoor brought along ve basketball players to join in on the fun and for photo ops. The Arc Gateway Foundations, Inc. of Pensacola, hosted this event that was sponsored by Orthodontist Dr. Clay Sims, who generously covered the costs to provide this experience to ARC Gateway clients. ARC Chief Executive Of cerMelissa Rodgers, Chief Advancement Of cer-Steven Rampersad, and Chief Operations Of cer-Cathy Lauterbaugh were in attendance for this movie premiere. “Champions gives all communities a glimpse into the lives of the champions we have the privilege of working together every day. A very timely message for March, National Developmental Disability Awareness Month,” said ARC CAO Stephen Rampersad.

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

Jarveil Gainey, Nieagell Sturkey, Zondrick Garrett, Glenda Randolph, Anthony Culliver, Shameka McNeil, Damion McReynolds & Omar Trip

Elijah Levin, Jarveil Gainey, Nieagell Sturkey, Zondrick Garrett, Brendan Terry

Front: Joy Anaston, Madrina Ciano, Karla Thompson & Coach Sagar Kapoor

Cathy Lauterbvaugh & Jenni Perkins

Christen, Jonah, Noah & Stephen Rampersad

Tyron Carmichael, Dana Wolf, Shameka McNeil, Kim Lewis & Judge Washington

Jeremy Jadallalh, Emily Peyeler & Tia Johnson

Royal, Callie & Mark Van Wagenen

COMFORT FOODINTHE HEARTOF PENSACOLA

For Polonza owner Judy Ring, the restaurant business is truly a family affair. A Pensacola native, Judy attended Jim Allen Elementary, Bellview Jr. High, and Escambia High School. Her post-secondary education was at Pensacola Jr. College, University of West Florida, and Auburn University. After college, she taught and was a counselor for 38 years in Pensacola, Huntsville, AL, and in Okaloosa County, FL. She and her husband raised 3 children and have 8 grandchildren. After her husband’s death, Judy shifted gears and became a businesswoman, taking on a small loan company, a print shop, a gift boutique, a real estate company, and restaurant, Polonza. The restaurant business was a familiar choice for Judy as her father, Dr. John Webb, and uncle, Adrian Webb, owned a BBQ restaurant in Pine Forest for many years. Judy and her brother, Mark Webb, worked in the restaurant and enjoyed the restaurant community immensely. When she opened Polonza, Judy decided to continue the family restaurant tradition by bringing on her niece and nephew, Jami Brown and Steven Turner, who both had many years of experience in the industry. From there, their vision came to light, to bring that expertise and hometown atmosphere, along with from-scratch recipes, to a restaurant/coffee bar where the food and drinks could be enjoyed while the patrons relaxed with family and friends.

article by Anna McGauley Stockton

The inspiration for Polonza’s food is all about family -the generations of family meals and excellent food their grandparents, parents, and their current generation grew up on. Coming from a family of farmers and dairy farmers, the food was not exotic, but it was fresh, expertly prepared, and full of avor. udy and family wanted to reproduce that with their customers, plus add in some of the dishes that spring from the cultures of the five ags that have own over Pensacola through history. Pensacola has a rich cultural heritage, and they want Polonza to re ect that in its food. This is why Polonza is known as a favorite among locals, especially.

ith the success of their breakfast, brunch, and lunch menus, Polonza has recently added a dinner experience for their customers. Their new dinner service is geared toward a slightly more complex meal, but with the same values of fresh and avorful. They want the customers to feel relaxed and welcome and to enjoy every bite. Their menu changes with the seasons, incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables and proteins that are lighter in the spring and summer and with more emphasis on warmth and richness in the fall and winter. They also provide at least one vegetarian option. Polonza offers a selection of small plates that are shareable, as an opportunity for diners to try new foods and or new preparations of old favorites. The dinner service runs on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights until p.m. The team at Polonza are always developing new menus and creating new event ideas. They plan on hosting more wine tastings and food events that feature local growers and products. They love being part of the Pensacola area and contributing to the camaraderie of downtown events. Polonza is also happy to host private special events. Their chef will prepare favorite menu items or will develop any menu of your choice. They enjoy accommodating their guests and want to give them the best experience possible.

Polonza is a favorite of locals and a special restaurant for many reasons. The food, the service, and the atmosphere work synergistically making it a great dining choice. Pensacola has been the family’s home for many generations, and they re ect the history in the community. wner, udy Ring says there are many wonderful things about being a part of Polonza and high on that list is getting to meet so many wonderful people who come into the restaurant. She and her family have made many friends over the years. Combined with making these friends, she enjoys serving them excellent food and making them happy, as that is the goal of Polonza to make people have a happy experience and create a desire to return.

People You Should Know

What is your hometown, what brought you to Pensacola, and how long have you been here?

I am one of those very lucky and blessed people to have been born and raised in the NWFL Panhandle, thanks to my family ending up here due to my father’s military service.

What is your profession and give a brief description of what you do. ith Harvesters CU, I have been able to serve the financial needs of our members in a multitude of areas for more than 20 years. As a loan originator, I help on an entirely cooler scale, with the purchase of a new home or even a lot/ land loan which we can then build the home of your dreams. The possibilities are endless!

What led you to choose this profession?

I love the special ‘partnership’ with mortgages. Buying a home is such a personal and extremely important decision. I must admit… I am a hand holder through the entire process. The more I can educate you on what we are doing the better you will feel towards the choice you are making.

What are a few of your proudest accomplishments?

I have raised an amazing son whom I adore. My numerous years here with Harvesters CU.

I was also able to check off some boxes while serving in the United States Air Force. I can still launch and recover if you need me to!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you?

Jennifer Lawrence – we are both tomboys at heart and she has great hair.

What do you like best about Pensacola? What makes it unique?

Pensacola is a unique ‘funnel of folks’ from all over the world. They either visit or relocate here. We seem to have a ‘slow simmer’ that draws you in to stay a spell.

Finish this statement; I can’t get through the day without… some 80’s jams.

What are your biggest professional challenges?

Getting the word out on how important credit is in the adult world. There is not enough taught on the subject of finance and money handling in the pre-adult years.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

I have a kitchen because it came with the house… don’t judge!

What three things do you need to be successful in this job? Patience, Communication, Multi-tasking.

Robin Arnold

People You Should Know

What is your hometown, what brought you to Pensacola, and how long have you been here?

I’m originally from Louisville KY, at age eleven my dad received orders to Corry Station, and I’m proud to have called Pensacola my home for over 37 years.

What is your profession and give a brief description of what you do.

I am a licensed REALTOR, as an agent I get the opportunity to help my clients with what is possibly the biggest and most memorable purchase they will ever make.

What led you to choose this profession?

After 26 years in retail management, the company I worked for abruptly closed. The closure allowed me to merge my passion for helping people and my love of building generational wealth through home ownership together.

What are a few of your proudest accomplishments?

One of my proudest accomplishments was being able to purchase my second home, making my personal dream of becoming a real estate investor come true.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you?

This is an easy one, without hesitation, Melissa McCarthy, for sure! What do you like best about Pensacola? What makes it unique?

There are so many things I like about Pensacola but what I love the most is how friendly people are in our community. The sugary white sand truly makes Pensacola’s beach one of the top destinations in Florida.

Finish this statement; I can’t get through the day without… Laugher, life is better when you’re laughing.

What are your biggest professional challenges?

Knowing when to take a break, I take pride in helping others so it can be challenging to stop and make time for myself.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

I Will Survive and Thrive!

What three things do you need to be successful in this job? Compassion, Commitment, and Integrity.

People You Should Know

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast?

My hometown is Valdosta, GA., I came to help care for my grandparents.

What is your profession and give a brief description of what you do.

I am a Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Main Street Properties.

What led you to choose this profession?

I want to help people, and it was a nice change of pace.

What are a few of your proudest accomplishments?

My marriage and children.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you?

Sean Connery

What do you like best about Pensacola? What makes it unique?

One of my favorites is watching the Blue Angels, it never gets old! Pensacola is a big, small town.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Fletch Lives

What three things do you need to be successful in this job?

God, my family, and my network of business partners.

Fletcher E. Spann III (Trey)

People You Should Know

Tanya Underwood

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast, and how long have you been here?

I grew up in Clearwater, FL and moved to Pensacola in December 1 . e were about to have our first child and wanted to be close to family. I have lived here ever since and have been able to successfully build my business and create lifelong friendships.

What is your profession and give a brief description of what you do.

I own Emerald Coast Granite & Tile and I am involved with just about every aspect of the company from sales to installation and everything in between. I am even the cleaning crew.

What led you to choose this profession?

I enjoy design. Over the years, the granite business has allowed me to diversify and touch so many aspects of design in a home or business, whether it’s from the ground up or an entire remodel.

What are a few of your proudest accomplishments?

Raising my amazing children – my son Bradley, 24, is now involved in the business and my daughter Kayla, 23, is in medical school in West Virginia.

Also, growing this company from a little bitty fab shop doing work for Lowe’s to where we are today. Along with the showroom and digital fabrication shop that we have now, we are expanding the company and the showroom to include some super cool new things!!! Coming Very Soon...

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you?

Reese Witherspoon

Finish this statement; I can’t get through the day without… Cuddles from fur babies and checking in with my children.

What are your biggest professional challenges? Finding employees and trying to please everyone.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

I’m Fine, It’s Fine, Everything’s Fine.

What three things do you need to be successful in this job? Patience, Good Sense of Humor, Good Employees (team).

Women’s Empowerment Awards

The Museum of Commerce downtown Pensacola was the venue for the annual Women’s Empowerment Awards held on March 8, by the Junior League of Pensacola. This year, it was tting that this special group spent International Women’s Day recognizing, honoring, and celebrating some of the most incredible women in this community. The event formally recognized and celebrated the outstanding contributions of women varying in age, culture, and roles within this community. The empowerment of individuals to spark change and improve their community and beyond was truly celebrated, not just in awards or recognition, but also in presence and acknowledgement. Sue Straughn was in attendance as Mistress of Ceremonies; Keynote Speaker was Dr. Lusharon Wiley, and closing remarks were performed by Katherine Creel. As stated by a Junior League member and Women’s Empowerment Awards committee member, Melanie Luna, “Women’s empowerment was not just spoken upon, but truly embodied and celebrated in the presence and participation of our incredible and diverse community of Pensacola. It was a true delight to bear witness to so many incredible women gathered together under one roof.” The Junior League of Pensacola, Inc. is an organization of women committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training and does not discriminate on race, religion and national origins and is truly committed to volunteerism. A display of culinary art was provided by the University of West Florida.

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

Ebony Cornish & Tara Lewis

Amanda Stannard & Kate West

Andrew & Nicole Murphy Hobbs, Whitney & Jake Lucas, Susan & Sheriff Chip Simmons, Christal & Ronnie Rivera

Patty Veal & Dr. Lusharon Wiley

Justine & Delarian Roper

Sarah Roberson & Katelyn Logan

Sue Straughn & Sabrina Simpson

IP Pensacola at omen’s Empowerment Awards

ichelle Schamberger, ristina Zimmern, elanie Luna & essica etterfield

Angela McNamer & Casie Fischer

Michelle Thompson & Margaret Williams

Jennie & Scott Barrow

elly acleod & Lakesha avis

Laura Swann, Laura Griffin, ancy Griffin & Amanda Stannard

eisha Gainey & essica Stefanko

Tylynne Robbins & Lisa Yourk

ark anBuren & o Rich

ill linick & ordan linick

Veronica Seymour, Katherine Creel & Elizabeth Gray

Sarena Rego, Midian Penberg & Nayara Orellano

David Uslan, Emily Lalas & Sarah Horne

Rachel Hendrix, Jena Malancon & Christina Doss

Fur Ba

Houghton

The beautiful and historic Pensacola Yacht Club hosted the Third Annual Fur Ball on March 18. This formal event is a fundraiser for the Pensacola Humane Society and their programs. They were also celebrating the nonpro t’s 80th anniversary. The evening started with a “yappy hour” (an open bar from 5:30 to 6:00) along with a “puppy parade” at the front door with several adorable adoptable cats and dogs who were looking for their “fur-ever” home. Upon entering the dining hall there were beautifully set tables with oral centerpieces created by Molly Maloney, with owers donated by Debbie Sapp of Southern Gardens Florist and Gifts. Each table had a bottle of Bar Dog pinot noir and chardonnay donated by The Bottle Shop. The paddles were raised for the silent and live auctions, with over 100 items up on the auction block consisting of jewelry, paintings, sports memorabilia, baskets lled with several bottles of wine, a bicycle and a photograph and album signed by every member of the Rolling Stones. The guests enjoyed the seated four-course dinner, and the dessert table was decked out with three exquisite cakes designed by Betty Weber, a three-dimensional dog cake, a three-dimensional cat cake, along with the Pensacola Humane Society logo sheet cake.

Ceil & Greg Reese

Susan & Sheriff Chip Simmons

Commissioner Mike & Shannon Kohler Phil & Michelle Salzman

Niecey & Trevor Glenn

Alyssa Wilson & Kaytlyn Larsen

Kathleen White, Sheri Kincaid, Kristiane Senarosa & Sophia Senarosa

Brittany & Kaleb Svoboda, Mallory Haack

Angela & Brent Lane

Lynei & Dave Kessler

Jen Deubler & Liliya Deubler

Barbara & Herb Sawyer

Victoria & Mark Grise, Jason & Brandee Foreman

Eileen & Damian Young

Jeremy & Rachael Johnson

Harry Purcell & Linda Hogan

Eloise Lautier & Deborah Dunlap

Jonathan Daniel & Gerald Adcox

Philip McClung, Eloise Lautier & Tom McClung

Lisa Espenscheid, Annalee Leonard & David Espenscheid

Spring into Spirits

story by Anna McGauley Stockton

Spring is upon us and with this season comes garden parties, brunch on patios, and enjoying the outdoor lifestyle we did not get to enjoy during our three-day long Gulf Coast winter. So, while you get yourself adjusted to the time change, we have compiled a list of cocktails that will have you outside enjoying the warm breezes and putting a spring in your step in no time.

The Cherry Blossom

Ingredients:

2 ounces gin

1 ¼ oz 1800 Silver Tequila

1 oz lime juice

1 oz grapefruit juice

¼ oz grenadine

Fruit for garnish

Salt as needed

The Bluebonnet

Ingredients:

1 ½ oz tequila blanco

1 ½ oz fresh lime juice

¾ oz Cointreau

1 ½ oz simple syrup

Dash of blue curacao and grenadine

Directions: Pour all ingredients into shaker and shake away. Strain into a salt rimmed martini glass or serve over ice. Garnish with fruit.

Directions: Combine all ingredients and shake with ice. Pour over ice into a glass and garnish with lemon wedge and jalapeno slice.

The Bee’s Knees

Ingredients:

2 ounces gin

¾ -ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed

½ ounce honey syrup

Garnish with lemon twist if desired.

Directions:

Add the gin, lemon juice and honey syrup into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Mint Julep

Ingredients:

2 sprigs of mint

½ oz simple syrup

2 oz bourbon

Crushed Ice

Directions:

In a julep cup (or a highball glass) muddle mint with the simple syrup. Fill cup 3/4 full with crushed ice. Add bourbon. Stir. Fill the remaining glass with crushed ice and a sprig of mint.

The Oaks Lily

Ingredients:

1 ½ ounces vodka

½ -ounce orange liqueur

3 ounces cranberry juice

½ -ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed

½ -ounce simple syrup

Directions:

Add vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, lemon juice and simple syrup into a glass, fill with ice and stir to combine. Garnish with blackberries or fruit of your choice.

Scenic Hills Country Club hosted the annual 21FOREVER Golf Classic on March 25. This marks the sixth year for this tournament, held in honor of the daughter of Rick and Kim Gorman.

The event was sponsored by the SHMGA Foundation and brought in over 150 golfers and numerous volunteers. With the sun shining and the perfect Florida weather, it was an ideal day to celebrate the life of the vivacious, sportsloving Samantha Gorman, as well as raising money for charity. Among the sea of purple worn by golfers and the convoy of golf carts, there was an obvious buzz of determination in the air as well. The golfers were treated to a day of fun complete with music, drinks, door prizes and raf es.

The 21FOREVER tournament bene ts NEP and the Miracle League of Pensacola, both are local programs that focus on ensuring Pensacola’s youth have access to sports programs, regardless of nancial or physical limitations. The fundraiser has grown with each passing year, all thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, and participants of this golf tournament.

photos & story by Summer Breeze

Daniel Morton & Steve Shea

Sarah Dimitroff & Lynn Greene

Jeff & Vanessa Gulsby, Penny & Leo Lynne Breeze Shmidt & Andres Candela

Todd Hofstetter & Adam Duce

Madison Gorman, Rick & Kim Gorman

Donna Glaze, Brandy Owens & Ed Villar

Greg Mosley & Buck Brown

Bridgette Myers, Trey Myers & Jeff Gady

Will Carey & Mike Jones

Pensacola Bay Area 2023 Membership Reveal

photos

IMPACT 100 celebrated their Annual Membership Reveal at the Brownsville Community Center on March 21. This also marked their 20-year anniversary. The venue was lled with a beautiful sea of sapphire as most attendees wore their signature “impact blue”

There was bubbling champagne, and an assortment of food and wines for those attending to indulge in as the excitement grew, awaiting the announcement of the group’s newest numbers.

This women’s philanthropic organization welcomed 200 brand new members and showed their appreciation for the other ‘true blue returning members’ as well as their twenty-three ambassadors. Now at a phenomenal 1,192 members, these sel ess visionary women, who have invested so much, and have chosen to make a difference in our community, show the impact of this organization. The group had plenty to celebrate, and their contagious smiles shined from one end of the venue to the other. They have raised $1,192,000 for our community this year. “Each of you have chosen to take your $1,000 membership and yield a signi cant impact in the Pensacola Bay area, and for that I am so thankful, said Kristin Longley, President of Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area.

& story by Summer Breeze

Lauren Gund & Amanda Hindsman

Cathyrine Armandie & Savedra Badilishamwalimu

Connie Cali & Heidi Cook

Ashlan Laedlein & Barbara Nelson

Karin Wiseman & Katie Kingsman

Autumn Moore & Marny Needle

Brigette Brooks, Holly Jurnovoy & Kristin Longley

VIP Pensacola at Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area 2023 Membership Reveal

Midian Penburg & Jo Rich

Delayna Blankenship & Karen Carrese

Meri Asmar & Sally Bergosh

Marilyn Kelly & Christy Rogers

Tina Bosso & Wendy Singh

Vivian Krumel & Roz Leahy

Whitney Adams & Lisa Kidd

Judi Patrick & Lauren Green

Mari Marcanio & Barbara Little

Lisa Fairbanks & Susan Bonsignore

Imagine building your business and watching it grow and thrive, only to have to move to a new location.....then do this every three years. These are the challenges that military spouses and their businesses face every day. The unique life of a military spouse comes with not only this challenge, but many others as well, such as lack of familial support, deployments that lead the spouse to be the sole caretaker of children, and many more. This is why organizations that support military spouses and their businesses, like NWFL Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce, are so important. They help the military spouses grow their businesses, provide support, and create a relationship with the local community that is imperative for success.

What is the NWFL Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce?

We are the home of the military spouse owned business in the Northwest Florida region. The NWFL Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce is a non-pro t organization serving our local military community. We are the rst in the nation to open a chapter for the national Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce (www.milspousechamber.org), whose mission is to ensure that all active duty and veteran military spouse business owners have the tools and resources they need to strengthen their families, communities, and our economy.

How did this organization come about?

Macu Mateo (www.resethomenow.com), and Pamela Bolado (www.womenwhodowonders.org), both military spouse entrepreneurs, met at a coffee meet-up for military spouses and both felt that there was a gap between the military and local community. We both shared our struggles trying to build or grow our business while our spouses were stationed in this area. We put our words into action and created the very rst chapter of the Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce.

What impact does the NWFL Military Spouse Chamber have on the community?

We are determined to bridge the gap between the local and military community. We want every military spouse entrepreneur to have a seat at the table, to network and grow their business, all while minimizing as much as possible the impact of the military lifestyle (constantly moving, limited or non-existent support system, deployments, etc…)

article by Anna McGauley Stockton

photography by V. Sousa Photography

Interview with Macu Mateo and Pamela Bolado Co-Directors

Macu Mateo Owner at Reset Home ResetHomeNow.com

Co-director of the Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce NW Florida Chapter

Pamela Bolado

Founder & CEO at Women Who Do Wonders Media WomenWhoDoWonders.org

Exec. Director at Mission Wonder Women

What are some future goals?

We are already in the works creating the 1st Annual MilEntrepreneur FORUM for November 2023 during Veteran’s Week. Partnering with the Panhandle Chapter of FAVOB (Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses), we want to put together the biggest military connected entrepreneur event this area has ever seen. Pitch competition, networking, and marketplace are among the activities planned for the FORUM.

What are some challenges your organization faces?

We are a very new organization, so is the national Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce. It has been challenging to get the funding we need to continue our mission.

What events does your organization host? Are any open to the public?

We offer monthly opportunities for military spouses and military connected entrepreneurs to network. We have different speakers for each event that cover the different aspects of entrepreneurship and help our members grow their businesses. We have planned morning meetings and social hours alternating each month. We are focused on military spouse entrepreneurs, but anybody is welcome to attend and support our community.

What is your role and how did you get involved with the NWFL Military Spouse Chamber?

Macu Mateo and Pamela Bolado are both co-directors and co-founders of the Northwest Florida Chapter of the Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce.

What’s your favorite thing about being involved with the organization?

Our military spouse community is fantastic, and we love the fellowship and honest support to each other’s businesses and journeys. We have found that there were many military spouses who felt the same way and we instantly connected due to shared experiences and struggles.

What would you like our readers to know about the NWFL Military Spouse Chamber?

Being a community with one of the largest military presences in the nation, there is still a signi cant gap with the local community that needs to be addressed and bridged. Let us all support our service members and their families.

How can someone get involved and/or support your nonpro t?

We can only do our mission with the support of our amazing local community. Share about us, donate, attend our events, and support and shop military spouse owned businesses!

Visit our website www.milspousechamber.org/nw- orida/ and connect with us.

Gulf Breeze Business After Hours

The Gulf Breeze Area Chamber held their Business After Hours on March 23, at the beautiful Harbourtown Village shopping center complex in Gulf Breeze. This event was sponsored by Blue Arbor. This was their largest Business After Hours of the year with most of the businesses joining in on the fun and excitement. Even the newest business, Salt Home Studio, who had their ribbon cutting ceremony just hours beforehand, was able to put together an inviting soiree for all to enjoy. It was the perfect weather to get out and meet and mingle with

everyone, whether a child or an adult, a business, or a patron. They had door prizes to win and music to enjoy with an outdoor cellist and a DJ spinning dance tunes. There was a bounce house for the littles, along with specially decorated cookies marking the occasion. The always tasty Hot Spot Barbecue had an assortment of their best consisting of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, potato salad, coleslaw, and sweets like key lime pie. Amazing gourmet desserts and chocolate covered strawberries were on hand for everyone, along with an assortment of wines, cold beer, cocktails, and plenty of water.

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

Kelly Gibson, Jeff Zeier, Lucy Robinson & Amanda Robinson

Charlie Rotenberry, Nan Harper & John Pinzino

Kelly Whibbs & Brady Antonio

Danielle King, Crystal King, Jennifer Schade, Sarah Newman, Mike Ripley & Louie Sanchez

Steve Harris & Miranda Molter

Sid Williams-Heath, Dr. Nicklaus Heath, Laura Russell, Harry & Kelly Gibson

Jennifer, Ansley & Heath Watson

David Jongko & Haiden Shemer arol Holifield & anielle Carroll

David Smith, Myranda Evans & Shellie Isakson Smith

Grace Carbaugh, Carrie Carver & Shelia Bellingham

Grier Noyes, Eleanor Massey & Betsy Palmer

Carey ing & Laura Savoie Joe & Panayota Whisler

Sarah ebb, egan Schrimsher & Sadie Schrimsher

Peter & Judy King & Phillis & Harold Brown

Brittany aks, Colleen Brown & ax Brown

3rd Annual

Who’s Your Caddy

Tiger Point Golf Course hosted the 3rd Annual Who’s Your Caddy Celebrity Charity Golf Tournament by Krewe of Swat on March 24. It was a sold-out event with well over one hundred golfers and volunteers. Opening remarks were made by Madrina Ciano and Fred and Tia Robbins, founder of Mr. Robbins Neighborhood. “We could not be prouder of our krewe, our community partners, and all of the involved players who helped make the 3rd Annual WYC a big success. This annual party with a “side of golf,” celebrating the birthday of NFL Super Bowl Champion, Fred Robbins, is the most anticipated golf tournament of the year. The fundraising is incredible, but the fellowship is priceless, and we can’t wait to see everyone next year on March 22, 2024,” said Madrina. Under perfect gol ng conditions everyone was driving and swinging into action on a shotgun start. A wonderful lunch was provided by Classic City Catering. Awards were handed out at the after party, sponsored by Joe Patti’s. A shrimp boil was prepared by Azalea Trace, and Fred’s Favorite Cigars by Cordova Cigars, bourbon by Lewis Bear Company, and birthday cakes by Sweet Magnolia’s Bakery were also provided. This year’s WYC raised $47,000.00 in support of Arc Gateway and Mr. Robbins’ Neighborhood.

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

Brian Davidson & Jeremy Hargrove

Marty Stanovich & Hugh Fones

Tia & Fred Robbins & Madrina Ciano

Lucas Lynch, Tiffany & Craig Orner

Angela Moore & Freddie Pendleton

Sheriff Chip Simmons, Whitney Lucas, Andrew Hobbs & Ronnie Rivera

Commissioner Robert Bender & James Hosman Scott Wever & Trevor Wever

Michael Hayes & Marc Fountain

Tim & Jen Kinsella & Honey & Chuck Harris

Zack Anderson, Tyler Johnson & Tori Perkins

Lane Cummings & Emory Smith

Midian Penberg & Jo Rich

Mychaela Lingo & Ashley Lambros

Matt Baker, Joel Alexander, Georgia Burton & Nick Wilhelm

Sheriff Bob Johnson (Santa Rosa), Randy Tifft & Roman Jackson

2023 Eye Ball

Asold-out crowd lled the Hilton Pensacola Beach for the 2023 Eye Ball Gala on March 11. Gathered to raise funds to empower people who are blind or visually impaired, attendees enjoyed cocktails, raf es galore, ne dining, music, and dancing. “This is our 20th Annual Eye Ball Gala during which we raise money for our programming which helps our clients who are blind or visually impaired to become as independent as they can be,” said Raven Holloway, Executive Director, Independence for the Blind of West Florida (IBWF).

Serving since 1995, IBWF originally covered the western Panhandle, however, the nonpro t now covers over 1 million people from Pensacola to the Apalachicola River. Funded through donations, fundraising, and other organizations such as the Florida Department of Education, IBWF offers programs for the young and young at heart. The nonpro t’s vision is to be the standard of excellence in rehabilitation services for people with blindness and visual impairments.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Tom Jenkins & Barbara MacNeil

Karla Ent & Kim MacQueen

Richard & Kailee Coll

Jeff Hoover & Lisa Wright

VIP Pensacola at Hilton Pensacola Beach

Alistair & Therese McKenzie

Sierra Bethea & Joshua Inghram

Stephanie & Glenn Barbee

Stanton Blaylock, Raven Holloway, Glenn Barber, Rhonda & Neil Dorfman

Bob Tyler & Amy Lorton

Andrew Valerio & Jennifer Little

Mike & Shona Arbrouet

Lisa Puzon & Shaughnessy Johnson

Lucretia Hooper & Carolyn Grawi

Mary Claus & Patrick Lanza

Andrew Rothfeder & Stephanie Tillery

Amalie Murphy & Robert Roque

Jessica & Jeff Elllis

Tiffany & Michael Krueger

Bettie Lee Sundstrom & David Beckham

Betty Hooper & Matthew Hooper

Jim & Lynda Knell

Shelby Smith & Dicksie Booker

I AM PENSACOLA Mayor D.C. Reeves

What is your hometown and how did you end up on the Pensacola area; and how long have you been here?

I was born and raised right here in Pensacola. I have spent 30 of my 38 years here, most recently moving home in 2015.

What is your profession and what led you to choose it?

I’m the Mayor of Pensacola, and what led me here was following the things I had a passion for.

It was hardly a conventional political route as I spent a decade as a sportswriter, I had the opportunity to work alongside and learn from Quint Studer as his Chief of Staff. While doing that, I invested everything I had into the dream of opening Perfect Plain Brewing Co. in downtown Pensacola. In the end, though, the skills I built as a writer, a community builder, and an entrepreneur have been a wonderful prescursor to leading my hometown to the next level.

What are some of your favorite things about Pensacola? What makes it unique?

Tangibly, no one has a combination of a world-class beach and a character community. But more than that, it’s the love for people in Pensacola. We agree on some things and maybe we disagree on others, but Pensacolians have a heart for our community and have a heart for each other.

Three words that best describe you. Collaborative, Energetic, Coachable.

Favorite place for dining and entertainment?

We are blessed to have so many great places, and that number continues to grow. I enjoy going to dinner at Union Public House, and while I’m not involved in the business anymore, I still love seeing all the great employees at Perfect Plain, Garden & Grain, Perennial, and The Well.

What is one thing that you do not go a day without? My cell phone and caffeine.

Finish this statement, I AM PENSACOLA because… I love this place dearly and will give it everything I have to make this the wonderful place we all know it can be.

photo by Kevin L Houghton