VIP Pensacola - August 2022 by VIP Destin, LLC

AUGUST 2022

PENSACOLA • PENSACOLA BEACH • PERDIDO KEY

THAN

Best iYnOU FOR VOTIN G US TWO Y Pensac EARS ola RU NNING

Welcome to

Breakfast! Serving Breakfast & Brunch Monday-Thursday 8a-1p | Friday-Sunday 8a-2p

3005 E Cervantes Street, Pensacola • 850-857-8290 f AuntKatiesWelcometoBreakfast

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In August Henry Chiropractic will be MOVING 3 blocks north to a new location! While moving locations, we are reminded of proper lifting techniques: Step-1: Position your feet. Step-2: Straighten back and bend knees. Step-3: Keep load close to the body. Step-4: Use correct grasp. Step-5: Tuck your chin in. Step-6: Keep body weight directly over feet and lift with legs. Step-7: Always ask a friend to help.

New Locatio Comingn Soon!

From sports injuries to auto accidents… We’ve got your back! Auto Accident • Physical Therapy • Massage • Sports Injury • Healthy Living

Thank you for your conﬁdence and support! www.drcraighenry.com (850) 435-7777 | 1602 N 9th Avenue | Pensacola, FL New Address: 1823 N 9th Avenue

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Thank you for your voting us BEST Chiropractor 2022!

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‘WE BRING A PERSONAL TOUCH TO A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE’ As a local Husband and Wife Real Estate Team we bring knowledge and expertise to the equation. This is crucial in any Real Estate Transaction. Building lasting relationships is our GOAL.

Thank you,

Gene & Amanda 07 hurd real estate.indd 1

Thank you for voting us... • Real Estate Professional Female • Real Estate Professional Male

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contents

Volume VII • Issue VIII

events 15 19 26 30 39 51 58 62 69 74 77

Mixing with the Stars Sandshaker & the Blues Business Networking Social Music & Maserati’s Life’s a Dance 25th Annual Crab Cake Cook-Off PSC Garde Manger Celebration Summer Social Open House & Business Expo Divot Derby Crystal Awards

on the cover Teri Levin & Ben Fishbein

Photography by Kevin L Houghton at Mixing with the Stars 8

departments 23 36 55 60 65 72 80 82

Coastal Cuisine Green Perspectives Swizzle Adventure Out Style Give Care Share Save the Date I Am Pensacola

features 28 Business Profile Freeman Roofing 32 Starting a Business? 34 2022 Best in Pensacola Winners 43 Feed the Fire Within You 45 Young Professionals Profiles

VIP Pensacola Staff Publisher Greg Alexander

Art Director Priscilla Atkins

Associate Publisher Verla Price

Content Creator Anna Stockton

Publisher’s Assistant Nicole Partridge

Contributing Writers/ Photographers Steve Black Patti Hall Kevin Houghton Nicole Partridge Verla Price Jeff Sarault Anna Stockton

Advertising Stephanie Alvarez Kristin Moffitt Verla Price Graphic Designers Patti Hall

VIP Founder Jeff Watson

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Chimney Sweeps Pensacola, FL

certified • licensed • insured

Fixing your chimney before it begins to leak could save you thousands. Waterproofing is one of the most involved preventative measures you can take for your chimney. Using our rigorous 3 stage waterproofing technique, your chimney will be protected for years to come.

Thank you for voting us BEST

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Specialty Cleaning & Customer Service!

7/28/22 7:09 PM

Don't be just a face in the crowd -be a VIP! Look for our exclusive photographers at your next event so you can be included in the next issue of VIP Pensacola. Get to know them here.

Kevin Houghton

Nicole Partridge

Patti Hall

Kevin moved to Pensacola in 1997 and married his wife, Allison, in 1998. He believes nothing is more satisfying than ensuring that every client feels conﬁdent. Kevin tries to capture happy moments as they happen and believes life is such a beautiful experience and never takes a day for granted. After 33 years of combined Military experience, Kevin is a full-time photographer where his work brings him the greatest joy.

After several years in youth development, healthcare, and not-for-proﬁt work, Nicole now enjoys working full-time in the magazine world.

Patti moved to Pensacola from Tampa in 1986 and has never looked back – even though she had never heard of Pensacola before moving here and just picked it from the map.

Kevin has always wanted to make a lasting impression on the lives of others. Photography allows him to do just that – it promotes a story and provides memories of life events. Kevin especially enjoys event photography for VIP Pensacola noting, “It so satisfying to meet so many wonderful people in our community, to continue to bring as many people together as possible in person or in a magazine.” Photography is his happy place – making people smile.

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Nicole has lived in the Pensacola area for 10 years along with her husband, Frank, and their son Aiden. They have extended family in Niceville and further away near Kansas City and Tulsa. Nicole enjoys being a Den Leader for Cub Scouts with her son and she is excited about their newest hobby, paddleboarding. Her favorite thing about Pensacola is the friends and adventures all around. Nicole started with photography in 2008 while living in Orlando. She found photography as a great creative outlet and engaged with the Wide-Angle Photography Club after arriving in Pensacola. Her favorite thing about photographing for VIP Pensacola is seeing people smile through the lens and when they see the ﬁnal print and are proud to be in the Magazine.

Patti owns Flip Flop Publishing & Promotions where she specializes in promotional products and graphic design. Her eye for design led her to an interest in photography. Patti’s daughter, Sarah-Paige Bouthilet, lives in St. Petersburg and her son Daniel Bouthilet lives here in Pensacola. Patti loves hockey, cooking, paddleboarding, and hanging out with friends. Her favorite things about Pensacola are the close-knit family feel, the beach, and the Blue Angels. Patti loves attending the many social, business, and community events in Pensacola and enjoys meeting people while photographing them for VIP Pensacola.

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letter from the Associate Publisher I was once a Young Professional. Reflecting on the early years of my career, I count my blessings for having received excellent training and mentoring from brilliant, professional people who took an interest in my success. However, these thoughts leave me wondering if my degree of success would be the same if I had not been in the right place at the right time. With that in mind, we directed parts of this issue toward helping people start a career or take the first steps in becoming entrepreneurs. While enjoying our regular coverage of local events and seeing photos of your friends and co-workers, notice a few spotlighted young professionals in the market and some features with the business executive in mind. Today’s work culture has changed dramatically from standard 9 to 5 in an office to working from home or driving non-stop to conduct meetings. You will find some essential things to know when you are constantly on the road (Pro tip- every bank has a nice clean bathroom near the front door. Believe me, after 25 years on the road, this is great to know). In Coastal Cuisine and Swizzle, find some healthy snack ideas and smoothie recipes to keep you focused and hydrated while satisfying those tummy rumbles. Finally, the road warrior needs to meet with clients occasionally in a conference room or a quieter place than a busy restaurant. We are fortunate to have some shared office space in Penasacola and when on the road to Destin we have Beachworx, featured in Adventure Out. Beachworx is a unique coworking office space offering everything you need to conduct business. Everyone needs at least one associate or friend to use as a sounding board for new ideas. Sometimes an idea sounds fantastic, and people around you will encourage you because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. I say pick up the phone and call the one person who will tell you the truth. I call these my grounding partners. They cheerlead for my great ideas yet care enough to quickly throw the brakes on my silly ones. One of my business partners and the guy who curbs my craziness, Jeff Sarault, contributed some tips for starting a business. Networking is the quickest way for a person to become known in the marketplace and gain new business leads. I advise joining all local chambers, such as the Pensacola, Pensascola Beach, Gulf Breeze, and The Perdido Key Chamber. Also, the Young Professionals organizations host monthly networking events and training. If you know of a non-profit or charity hosting an event you would like to see featured in VIP Pensacola, please call me. We love supporting as many non-profit causes as possible. Thank YOU for reading VIP Pensacola; please be kind, courteous, and shop local.

Associate Publisher 850-502-7970 Verla@VIPPensacola.com

Be on the lookout for our VIP Pensacola Ambassadors, Shelley & Steve Black, at area events. 12

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Contact our office or search available rentals.

1200 Creighton Road Pensacola, FL 32504 (850) 473-1300

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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VIP Pensacola at 5eleven Palafox

Amber Gordon & Abigail Whitaker

Aliza Ray & Alyx Perlman

Stephanie Alvarez & Verla Price

Mixing with the Stars

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

Teri Levin & Ben Fishbein

eleven Palafox in downtown Pensacola partnered with The Kennedy to host Mixing with the Stars on July 21. This event paired a few of Pensacola’s celebrities with local bartenders to create a signature cocktail. Over 120 attendees and countless sponsors raised their glasses to raise thousands of dollars during the event. Multiple teams worked hard behind the scenes, crafting their concoctions with the hopes of taking first place to donate the biggest pot of money to their charity of choice. No matter the winner, every chosen charity received a generous donation. The local stars included Teri Levin competing for Gulf Coast Kid’s House, Walker Wilson competing for onbikes Pensacola, and Ben Fishbein competing for Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research. There were plenty of featured small bites to enjoy; stunningly presented vegetarian and meat tray options from Portobello Market were provided throughout the evening to coincide with the refreshments. Shelley & Steve Black

Alicia Tappan & Briana Snellgrove

Peggy Woolverton, Addie Murdoch, Paul Frechette, Bryce Clayton & Anne Frechette August 2022 | 15

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VIP Pensacola at Mixing with the Stars

DeeDee & Corbett Davis

Kirsten Clemmons & Olivia Braley

Madison Mougey & Cooper Perlman

Mike & Terri Papantonio

Rhys & Mackenzie Rinke

Courtney Cantrell & Matt Nichols

Donnie Stokes & Jinnie Miller

Julia Ussery, Sophie Ussery & Macey Hicks 16

Bonita Jacobs & Jenny Noonan

Josh & Aimet Oberhausen

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Caroline Hornfeck, Alyssa Easton & Tucker O’Connor

Joshua Carter, Macy Williams & Matthew Mabe

Peggy Woolverton, Cheryl Young & Charley Young

JC Lowe, David Magee & Leo Cyr August 2022 | 17

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Come Play with Our Pets Family Owned and Operated

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST PET STORE 6 YEARS IN A ROW! 6235 N. Davis Hwy Pensacola, FL 32504 (850) 637-1123 PetlandPensacola

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415 Mary Esther Cut Off NW Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (850) 796-2424 PetlandFortWaltonBeach

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VIP Pensacola at Sandshaker

Kyle Schepperd & Jeff Smith

Heather Collins, Ashley Johnson & Sarah Villar

Sandshaker & the Blues photos by Patti Hall & Tyler Rakowski

story by Patti Hall

ensacola Beach and the Sandshaker welcomed the Blue Angels for the Red, White & Blues Pensacola Beach Air Show on July 9. The 2022 Blue Angels Air Show marked the 76th year of the demonstration team wowing crowds. The day started early at the Shaker with bushwackers, bloody Marys, and mimosas as patrons patiently waited for the show to begin. The weather was hot and beautiful with bright blue skies—a good day for the performance. The show started at 11 am with several fl ight demonstrations and civilian aerobatic performances. The upper deck at the Shaker provided a spectacular view to watch the show. At 2 pm, the famous plane known as “Fat Albert” took to the sky to begin the Blue Angels show. Then the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, were up, showing off the remarkable skill and teamwork of the Navy and Marine Corps pilots. The diamond dirty loop, the double farvel, the vertical pitch, the fleur-de-lis, the opposing knife-edge pass, and the favorite sneak pass were just a few of the aeronautic maneuvers. The roar of the engines brought shouts of “USA” amidst the oohs and aahs. After the show, the party continued at the Sandshaker until the wee hours of the morning, celebrating another fantastic show. The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the teamwork and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring a culture of excellence and service to the country through fl ight demonstrations and community outreach. Since 1946, the Blue Angels have performed for more than 500 million fans.

Tyler Rakowski & Jerry Podojil

Barbara & Frank Adams, Cissy Witt, Kathy Brown & Kham Vongkhamchnah August 2022 | 19

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VIP Pensacola at Sandshaker & the Blues

Dude Hausmann & Bill Arnold

Brian Keulley, Doug Permenter & Sonny Reedy

Deedee Pugh, Judy Harris, Ashley Rotenberry & Angela Moore

Susan James, Sheri Reedy & Susan Kulley

Carey King & Elly Twidwell

Nick King, Jeremy Twidwell, Joanie Thomas & Michael Cooner 20

Lisa Schroeder & Dana Frederick

Dick Brown & Monica Drees

Bryan & Erin Adams, Courtney & Jared Martin

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THANK YOU

for voting us Best Hearing Care in Pensacola ... Again!

Helping Pensacola To Be The Best We are passionate about the future of Pensacola and Citizens of our beautiful communities along the Gulf Coast

Pensacola Opera Council On Aging of West Fl American Cancer Society Arc Gateway Capstone Academy Independence for the Blind Pensacola Children’s Chorus

Serving Military’s Fellow Veterans: Sponsors of Navy Military Ball Sponsors of Fallen Hero’s Family Group Sponsors of Academic Scholarships for Military Officers Association Sponsors of WWF - Florida Veteran’s Entrepreneurship

We Believe That The Best Is In Giving Not Receiving Call 850-476-0700 or visit RiesbergInstitute.com

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Take it on the Run

story by Anna Stockton

ith life moving even faster these days, making good food choices throughout the day can be hard. Many times, you’re running around, busy with meetings, shuttling kids, or trying to make it across town to meet with that important client when it hits you -- the hunger that is. And teetering on the fine line between just being hungry and morphing into a hangry, short-tempered, unpleasant version of yourself, you need food! While zooming your car to a nearby fast-food joint is always an option, that may not be the healthiest choice and can even leave you feeling worse. Planning ahead and packing healthy foods for the day will not only help you get through the day -- it may eliminate having to apologize for things you said when you were hangry.

Say Cheese One of the best snacks to bring on the road is cheese. Filled with protein, cheese has the uncanny ability to fill you up quickly but also allows you to eat endless amounts when on a charcuterie board, but I digress. Cheese is the most portable of snacks and comes in prewrapped sticks, cubes, and slices. To up your protein intake, cheese sticks wrapped in meats and to-go mini meat and cheese snacks are now readily available at most grocery stores. These portable snacks pack plenty of punch and can easily fill in when there’s no time for a leisurely lunch.

Go Nuts Nuts are basically the superhero of food. Not only do they play a role in helping control cholesterol levels, they’ve also been proven to help control diabetes and improve heart health. Nuts also contain omega 3 fatty acids which are vital for helping prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, and aids in reducing rheumatoid arthritis. The fiber and calories in nuts keep you full in between meals and the best part is, they’re so darn tasty. Whether you get them plain, salted, or flavored, with mixed nuts you’re guaranteed to have a healthy, nutritious snack on the go. Trail mix is another way to enjoy a nut-filled snack on the go and adds dark chocolate, raisins, and other sweet additions to the mix, giving you a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Just be sure you don’t just eat the chocolate, as some people do.... or so I’ve heard.

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Where’s the Beef? There’s a reason why beef jerky has been around since the 1500s. This protein-packed food has been a go-to for everyone from cowboys on the range to hikers to modern-day road warriors. While its essentially dried meat, beef jerky is far more than that. It’s a high protein, low fat power food that is easily accessible and can be kept in your car or bag for long periods of time. Jerky now comes in a variety of flavors including teriyaki, blackberry, and chipotle and various meats including turkey and bacon.

Hit the Bars The protein bars, of course. Protein bars come in so many different varieties, there’s plenty to choose from. With flavors like birthday cake and sea salt and caramel, what’s not to love? These bars are packed with protein, carbohydrates, and great nutrients, making for a filling snack or meal replacement. Read the ingredients carefully though, some protein bars are loaded with sugars and are high in calories, leaving you with a sugar crash rather than a steady stream of energy.

Back to Basics Don’t be afraid to go old school and simply bring a sandwich or wrap along for your long workday. Planning ahead and making a sandwich not only saves you money but it can prevent unhealthy food choices too. Sandwiches and wraps have everything you need to keep your mind focused and sharp while giving you the energy to be your best self. Whether you go with meats and cheeses with piled on veggies or throwback to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, wraps and sandwiches are a classic choice for a meal on the go.

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VIP Pensacola at IXL Real Estate

Sylvia Ramos & David Triana

Clover Lawson, Liliya Slutsker & Heather Flowers

Business Networking Social

photos & story by Patti Hall

XL Realty hosted the Business Networking Social on July 14. IXL Realty, Conexion Media Group, and Reset Home Professional Organizing Services sponsored the event. Business owners networked while enjoying delicious Latin food and desserts from numerous area caterers. Two guest speakers, Elizabeth Vinti, Mortgage Loan Originator for Homestar Financial Corporation, and Louie Sanchez, Financial Services Representative for Magnolia Wealth Strategies, enlightened the group on their respective businesses. All attendees had a chance to introduce themselves via their “elevator speeches,” exchange business cards, and network in a relaxed atmosphere. Lucky attendees went home with fabulous door prizes. There was a special appearance by Amid Montelongo, a talented international performer. He is a vibrant 34-year-old singer who has performed at several local events, including the Latino Festival in Pensacola and the Dia de la Raza Festival in Foley. He is also one of the finalists for the TV talent show “Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento” on Estrella TV.

Saryn Swanson & Jennifer Lowry

Elizabeth Vinti & Ansley Moore

Rusty Gremillion & Janusz Chudzynski

Haley Hegetschweiler & Chris Lawrence

Macu Mateo, Paola Chapman & Camille Murray

Ashlee Kirkland, Christina Goza & Louie Sanchez

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Business Profile

Specializing in Government, Commercial & Residential photos & story provided by Freeman Roofing

Our Story Freeman Roofing was formed in 1976 by Jimmy Freeman and Bernie Freeman. Since 1976, Freeman Roofing has provided honest, quality workmanship to countless clients all along the Gulf Coast.

Experience In 1980, Jimmy Freeman was hired at Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida, as a roofing supervisor. A staunch determination coupled with a strong work ethic allowed him to continue to grow his roofing business while working full time at NAS. During Jimmy’s time at NAS, he gained extensive knowledge of commercial roofing. He used this knowledge to expand his roofing business in the commercial arena and was recognized on numerous occasions for his superior performance and immense knowledge of the roofing industry. After the loss of his father in 1994, Jimmy decided to retire from Naval Air Station and focus on growing Freeman Roofing.

All in the Family Freeman Roofing is truly a family business. As the company grows, family involvement follows suit. Jimmy’s daughter, Melissa Freeman, obtained her contractor’s license in Alabama and Mississippi in 2006. The participation of additional skilled family members and dedicated workers have allowed Freeman Roofing to branch out into commercial endeavors in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Jimmy’s mom, Eloise, is also very involved in operating the business and adds to the family camaraderie. Always in mind, the Freeman Roofing motto remains “providing a fair priced quality roof to everyone.” Jimmy and his family have developed Freeman Roofing into a trusted, locally owned company known for its efforts to give back to the community to a greater extent than he ever imagined. Freeman Roofing has always been a family business and it will continue to grow with sons, daughters, nephews, and grandchildren offering honest, quality workmanship for generations to come. 28

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Community Being a long-time local business, Freeman Roofing is quick to act when disaster hits home. During Hurricane Sally, they were there servicing insurance claims and working with adjusters. In 2004 when Hurricane Ivan pummeled the Gulf Coast, Jimmy, along with the help of his family, provided emergency clean up and roof assistance to devastated local families. He generously purchased several thousand-gallon gas tanks, chain saws, tarps and more supplies. These resources proved invaluable to our community during such difficult times. Jimmy’s altruistic nature was recognized and Freeman Roofing was asked to assist with installing blue roofs in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Gustav. Again, Jimmy and his crews packed up and set out to aid those affected by the storms. Freeman Roofing makes generous donations of time, services, and sponsorships in our community. They were a key contributor in renovating the home of an area Purple Heart Veteran (1)(2). Freeman Roofing understands the importance of having a sound roof overhead. We are licensed and insured (License #RC0058058) and dedicated to making sure we deliver quality work with quality products and manufacturers. Maintaining our family company’s stellar reputation is a top priority. Freeman Roofing offers a variety of services from small repairs to total reroofs on residential, commercial, and government structures of all sizes. Do not trust such a critical investment to just any company. Contact the dependable experts at Freeman Roofing at 850.994.1078 to handle your residential and commercial roofing needs today.

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VIP Pensacola at Maserati Pensacola

Darra Flanagan & Emily Shelton

The Echo Foundation Orchestra

Music & Maserati’s photos & story by Patti Hall

aserati and Alpha Romeo of Pensacola hosted United Way of West Florida for an Organization Appreciation night on June 30. Madrina Ciano, spokesperson for Maserati Pensacola, said this was a way to show appreciation and honor the organization for what it does for the community. United Way’s mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities worldwide to advance the common good. Laura Gilliam, President and CEO of United Way of West Florida, welcomed everyone and thanked them for coming. She introduced the Emerald Coast Honors Orchestra, which performed for the board members and guests of United Way. The ECHO Ensemble is the Gulf Coast’s premier contemporary orchestra committed to music education in the community. Step One Automotive’s Darra Flanagan, the event manager, also expressed her appreciation for United Way Board members and guests, inviting them to eat, drink and mingle. Delicious appetizers and cocktails were available from Classic City Catering. Maserati and Alpha Romeo Pensacola are part of the Step One Automotive family.

Jessica & Todd Phillips

Amy & John Floyd

Amy Miller & Madrina Ciano

Gretchen Hullenbaugh, Kate Williams, Laura Gilliam, Kevin Thomas, Jed Dembowski, Mary White & Melissa Lewis

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"Always trust the hands of experience"

Michael King, Jeff Thompson, Madrina Ciano & Zafar Temuri

"I have a true passion for cosmetic dermatology. I get great gratification from assisting people to feel better about their appearance. If people are more confident about their appearance, it tends to be reflected in other parts of their life, both personal and professional." Kevin Welch, M.D. Board Certified Dermatologist

Medical Center Clinic

Tom & Celia Hilton

Best Anti-Aging Service Best Dermatologist

Yana Titova, Dillon Howard, Brittany Neal & Shane McRay

Call Today for an Appointment

850.969.2689 KevinWelchMD.com

Dan Schebler & Mary Zaledonis

8333 North Davis Highway | Pensacola, FL 32514 August 2022 | 31

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Starting a business? It’s not enough to just start. You want to create bulletproof success that you carry with you, no matter what is going on in the economy, your industry, or your marketplace. Depending on who you listen to, there are an infinite number of mindset hacks and ideas out there that may help you master success from the inside out.

Jeff Sarault

10X Certified Business Performance Coach & Head of Strategic Partnerships - CardChamp hello@jeffsarault.com | 724-420-1460

Here are 12 daily habits that have personally helped me grow and scale multiple businesses. 1 Stay Focused on the Daily Target What do you want to accomplish today? Every day, your goal is to control what you can control. Today’s goal is to keep moving forward to accomplish today’s target. 2 Do the Most Difficult Thing First Procrastination is fuel to negativity. If you put off doing the hard stuff, your motivation will drop during the day. Instead, start with the tough thing on your list. Doing the tough things builds discipline. When you get it out of the way, everything else is just easier the whole day. 3 Push Yourself to Do More Than You Think Is Possible When you think you can’t do more, and you do... that’s motivation. Make it a habit to push yourself past your perceived limits. Be willing to be uncomfortable. That’s how you achieve the impossible.

7 Complete Every Task Once Started Once you start it, finish it. Make it a rule. It's going to give you confidence that you're a finisher, a completer, a closer. You don’t get credit for stopping halfway. Success and motivation comes from closing and finishing, not starting. 8 Respond to All Social Media Likes And Comments I don't care how busy you are. Answer all your messages, likes, and comments, even the negative ones. If you don't have the time to do it, get somebody else. This is going to motivate you to know that you can be everywhere, that you can get everything done, that you can communicate with everyone. 9 Show Up Early for Everything Show up early so you can feel good about yourself. You want to be the person everybody counts on. This makes you dependable and increases your confidence.

4 Visit Your Customers in Person Make personal contact with the people who can make things better for you. Get off the phone and out of your email inbox. Visit them in person and make a connection you can’t make on the phone or email.

10 Make a List of Contacts Who Would Change Your Life Make a list of five people who, if you contacted them, they would change your life. Don't worry about how you are going to contact them. Write that list down every night and watch what happens to you.

5 See Problems as Opportunities “The greats” don't see problems the way average people do. If you have a problem customer, call them personally, quickly, and frequently. Problems are opportunities. Seek them out. Solve them. Turn them to your advantage. Everyone else is avoiding problems. When you go after them, you pull away from the pack.

11 Focus on Results, Not Efforts Be interested in productivity. Be interested in results. Measure productivity. Yes, know how many calls you’ve made…but more important is the sales you complete.

6 Bring More to A Presentation Than You Could Ever Use When you know you’re prepared for anything, you’ll have unbelievable confidence. You know that whatever they throw at you, you’re prepared.

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12 Follow Up Relentlessly Average people give up after the 10th call and don’t make the 11th one. That’s a waste of your effort. Part of finishing is following up relentlessly. Be the guy or gal who won’t stop until you finish.

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Health / Wellness Walk in Clinic/Urgent Care Baptist Medical Park - Airport

Family Care Physician Dr. Charles Blay D.O. – Woodlands Medical Specialists

Podiatrist Dr. Michael Allen, DPM Pensacola Foot & Ankle Center Medical Practice DYNAMIC Pain & Wellness

Alternative/Natural Medicine Empathic Practice

Place for a Massage Enhanced Esthetics and Wellness Eye Care Professional Fifty Dollar Eye Guy

Pain Management Fit Chiropractic & Acupuncture Plastic/Cosmetic Surgery Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery Chiropractor Henry Chiropractic

Women’s Wellness Provider Karen E. Kennedy, MD Anti Aging Service Kevin Welch, MD Welch SkinCare Center

Aesthetician Luminous Beauty by Cass Permanent Makeup Microblade Pensacola Pediatrician Pensacola Pediatrics Hearing Care Riesberg Institute Orthodontist Sims Orthodontics Assisted Living/Memory Care Sodalis Pensacola Dentist Star Smiles Dentistry Physical Therapy Stern Chiropractic Clinic Med Spa Still Waters Day & Medical Spa Senior Living Community The Blake at Pensacola

Weight Loss Program Woodlands Medical Specialists Weight Management and Wellness

Entertainment Place to Take the Kids/Family Cordova Lanes Bowling Center Place for a Date Cordova Lanes Bowling Center Place for “Girls’ Night Out” DRIFT Modern Coastal Cuisine Place to Go Dancing First Dance Ballroom Studio

Wedding Photography Aislinn Kate Weddings Wedding Caterer Culinary Productions Wedding Planner Felicia by Design Place for a Tux Gent’s Formal Wear Downtown Photo Booth Good Vibrations DJ and Photo Booth Services Place to Buy Engagement Ring Jewelers Trade Shop

Medical Center/Medical Group Woodlands Medical Specialists

Dermatologist Kevin Welch, MDWelch SkinCare Center

Annual Event Blue Angels Airshow

wedding / bridal

Place to Stay Hyatt Place Pensacola Airport Golf Course Scenic Hills Country Club Place to People Watch Seville Quarter Live Entertainment/Music Venue Seville Quarter

Wedding Florist Just Judy’s Flowers, Local Art & Gifts Ceremony Venue Pensacola Yacht Club Place for Rehearsal Dinner Pensacola Yacht Club Reception Venue Scenic Hills Country Club Bridal Store The Bridal Loft Wedding Cake/Confections Top It Off, The Cupcake Bar Wedding Rentals Wedding Walls Event Decor & Rentals

shopping / retail Lawn and Garden Store Bailey’s Produce & Nursery

Seafood Market Joe Patti’s Seafood

Wine Shop Beyond the Grape

Men’s Apparel Lil’ John’s Big and Tall

Women’s Apparel Bluetique

Boutique Millie’s Garden Boutique

Locally Owned Retailer Costello’s Butcher Shop

Motorcycle Shop Pensacola Harley-Davidson

Home Decor/Accessories Duh for Garden and Home

Pet Store Petland

Eyeglasses/Sunglasses Fifty Dollar Eye Guy

Liquor Store Richey’s East

Furniture Hank’s Fine Furniture

Gift Shop Southern Gardens Florist

Jewelry Store Jewelers Trade Shop

Women’s Accessories The Pink Pineapple Boutique

| VIPDestinMagazine.com

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services Home Repair/Handyman 1st Choice Home Improvements

Pool/Spa Sales/Service Classic Pool Care, Inc.

Charity/Non Proﬁt Gulf Coast Kid’s House

Plumbing Service Paradise Home Services

Flooring Act 1 Flooring, Inc.

Bank/Financial Institution Community Bank

Place for Eyelashes, Nails, etc. Pensacola Lash & Beauty Bar

Homebuilder Adams Homes of Northwest Florida

Interior Designer Connie Crosby

Limo/Transportation Service Hummer4Hire, A Limousine Service

Air Conditioning & Heating Company Air Design Systems, Inc. Automobile Dealer - Pre-Owned Allen Turner Pre-Owned Real Estate Professional - Female Amanda Hurd Hurd Real Estate & Co. Specialty Cleaning (Chimney, Pressure Wash, etc.) ARC Chimney Sweeps Customer Service ARC Chimney Sweeps Payroll/HR Avalon HR General Contractor Bear General Contractors Real Estate Company Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties Pet Grooming/Boarding Camp Bow Wow Accounting Firm Christina Powers Tax

Event/Banquet Space Court of De Luna Event Space New Business Cruisin’ Tikis Pensacola Beach Real Estate Agent- Commercial Danny Zimmern – The Zimmern Team / Keller Williams Landscaping Executive Landscaping Funeral Home Faith Chapel Funeral Home & Crematory Financial Advisor Fenoy Butler Riverside Wealth Advisors

Real Estate Team Hurd Real Estate & Co. Event Rentals Kent’s Special Events Golf Cart/ATV Kool Karts, Inc. Stafﬁng Company LandrumHR Property Management Main Street Property Management Boat Sales & Service MarineMax Pensacola Luxury Automobile Sales Maserati Pensacola

Restoration Company First Onsite

Electrician/Electrical Contractor McCombs Electrical Company, Inc.

Specialty Contractor Freeman Rooﬁng

Cleaning Service Ofﬁce Pride of Pensacola

Automobile Repair Service Gary Sapp Automotive, Inc.

Veterinary Clinic Olive Branch Pet Hospital

Real Estate Professional - Male Gene Hurd Hurd Real Estate & Co.

Alarm/Security Panhandle Alarm & Telephone

Computer IT /Web Development Salz Studio Photographer Salz Studio Banker Scott Barrow - Regions Florist Southern Gardens Florist and Gifts Automobile Dealer - New Step One Automotive Group Title Company Sunbelt Title Agency Mortgage Company Supreme Lending Hair Salon The Vintage Parlour Law Firm The Watson Firm, PLLC Insurance Firm Thompson-Walden Insurance Real Estate Agent-Residential Tonya Zimmern – The Zimmern Team / Keller Williams

cocktails / cuisine Beer Selection 200 South

Place for Coffee Coffee Guy Cafe

Restaurant - Downtown Alice’s Gulf Coast Cuisine

Happy Hour DRIFT Modern Coastal Cuisine

Fine Dining Alice’s Gulf Coast Cuisine

Restaurant - Pensacola Beach DRIFT Modern Coastal Cuisine

Breakfast Another Broken Egg Cafe

Steakhouse DRIFT Modern Coastal Cuisine

Restaurant - Cordova Area Aunt Katie’s Welcome to Breakfast

Pizza East Hill Pizza

Italian Restaurant Bonelli’s Sports Bar Bubba’s 33 Dessert Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe and Café

Brewery/Craft Beer Emerald Republic Brewing Co BBQ Hot Spot Barbecue Catering Hot Spot Barbecue Restaurant -Overall Jackson’s Steakhouse

Bartender Jocelyn Morrow Calvert’s in the Heights Casual Dining O’Brien’s Bistro Locally Owned Restaurant O’Brien’s Bistro Seafood Restaurant Red Fish Blue Fish Burger Sammy Barker’s Restaurant - North/Nine Mile/UWF Sammy Barker’s Bar Sandshaker Lounge

Brunch Scenic Hills Country Club Place for Cocktails The District: Seville Steak & Seafood Special Occasion Restaurant The District: Seville Steak & Seafood Sushi The Jellyﬁsh Restaurant New Restaurant The Wine Bar & Market Bloody Mary Water Pig BBQ

Bushwacker Sandshaker Lounge February/March 2016 | XX

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Green Perspectives from

“I love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness for it shows me the stars.” - Og Mandino

greenproceduresinc.com

Light Up The Nights article by Steve R. Black

Light changes everything. Landscape lighting has come a long way. With the advent of LED technology applied to the accent lighting for landscapes, the types nightscapes one can create is endless. With no filament to break or burn out, LED’s can last 40,000 hours (or 20 years) compared to just 2 years for a halogen bulb. This fact has changed everything.

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LED Landscape Lighting components: Transformer - Reduces 120v to a much safer 12v, allowing the wire to be directly buried (no conduit needed) just out of sight under the mulch or under the lawn surface. Bulb - Color, brightness, and beam width. Fixture - Determines the look and feel of the system, protects bulbs and helps determine beam width. Stake or other Mounting Hardware - Holds fixture in place Cable - Carries the voltage from transformer to the bulbs.

The types of fixtures: Uplight - Narrow 45-degree beam for lighting trees and other focal points. Spotlight/Wash Light - Wider 120-degree beam for wall washing or casting light in large areas. Pathlight - Simply lighting a driveway or walk path is often the intent. These lights vary greatly and can be a statement in the landscape. Well Light - The in-ground housing fixture simply makes the light source completely disappear. Deck/Ledge Light - These small lights can be tucked away so only the light is visible. Rope Light - Can be used creatively to highlight a particular part of the landscape or be tucked away under a ledge or railing to create an uninterrupted cast of light. Moonlighting - An often-missed opportunity, large trees can accept uplights, high up in the canopy shining down that create a unique effect on the landscape. Paver Light - Mimicking the shape of the paver, a paver light can be an extraordinary alternative when lighting a driveway. Party light - The humble string lights that seem to constantly burn out bulbs… the new LED’s last and add to the possibilities. Color Changing - You can install the system, download an app, and control each individual light from your phone. Although more expensive, but the color combinations and their effects are endless. Fountain lights - Uplighting that water feature will bring it to life in the night. Submersible LV LED lights can do it well.

Steve R. Black

Practicing Agronomist and Landscape Design along the Gulf Coast for 36 years

From the information above it is easy to tell that you have many options. The nightscape can be many things and it is all available now. Should you hire a professional or go at it yourself? While a professional will be efficient and armed with previous installation knowledge, installing your own Low Voltage Landscape Lighting System is possible. At a minimum, be involved with the design and immerse yourself in the project. This will better ensure happiness with the result. Alternatives: In my experience I have not found solar powered landscape lighting to be a desirable alternative to a Low Voltage wired system. The low light output of a solar light (~1 lumen verses hundreds of lumens for a Low Voltage system fixture) just disqualifies these as a potential lighting source for me. In addition, the charging ability of the solar light depends on sunlight so the shaded areas of your landscape are not even in play if you are designing a system. Someday these issues may be overcome. The idea of landscape lighting is normally that you don’t see the light source but only the light. The exception to that is path lighting which is designed to be on display. Keep in mind that an over lit space can be just as uncomfortable as a dark space. The color of the light itself is also important. In residential applications warmer lighting is most desirable. Cooler (white) light is used more in commercial applications or in ultra-modern designs. These variations are a tool and should be considered. With today’s ever-increasing technology, the possibilities are endless. The full spectrum color changing lighting systems can have your landscape feeling like Ibiza, Spain, one minute and Martha’s Vineyard the next.

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Beam width is also something to consider. The commonly used spotlight type fixture has about a 45-degree beam width, concentrating the light in a narrow pattern, making it useful in bringing out features in a dark landscape. A flood light’s beam width is 120 degrees or more, ideal for washing a large wall or space with light. Also, when designing, don’t concern yourself with small features in the landscape but with large trees, walls, and other opportunities to not only add light but create effects. When lighting a path, the lights generally should be placed on opposite sides alternating placement and far enough apart that the light does not overlap. The dark spaces in between create interest and the light beckons you forward on the path. When considering quantity, type, and placement of lights, don’t get carried away. Too many lights will work against you. Landscape lighting is meant to create an inviting effect and invoke drama in the night landscape. With a properly illuminated nightscape you will not be able to take your eyes off it. The wonder of light and its endless potential to create different moods provides many opportunities to create interest and drama while also resulting in a more approachable nightscape. Whatever LED Lighting design you choose, take a chance and create. A well-placed moonlighting type fixture or rope light used just right can make all the difference. Consider all available options and then try and add one component that you normally would not… you will love the result.

7/28/22 9:42 PM

Thanks for voting us Best Flooring in Pensacola!

4111 N Davis Highway • Pensacola

850-479-4100

www.Act1Flooring.com 38

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7/28/22 9:12 PM

VIP Pensacola at Saenger Theatre

Life’s a Dance photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

he Saenger Theatre was fi lled with excitement as Life’s a Dance was held on June 30. This event was presented by Gene and Amanda Hurd, Hurd Real Estate & Co., and organized by Victor and Melanie Luna, Life’s a Dance Studio. This star-studded event benefited Junior Achievement. The night had something for everyone as local celebrities competed for the title of winner of Life’s a Dance 2022, professional dancers entertained the audience, and a Pensacola native sang his heart out. There were local celebrities, such as Aaron and Kimberly Watson, Steve and Shelley Black, and Florida House Representative Michelle Salzman, just to name a few, dazzling the crowd with their creative moves. One professional couple that performed is 6-time current and undefeated United States Professional National Cabaret Champions, Shane and Shannon Jensen, who wowed the crowd with their beautiful artistic abilities, just as they did on television programs America’s Got Talent and NBC’s The Today Show. Another amazing professional duo performing was Pasha Pashkov and Daniella Karagach, who have appeared on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars. The evening’s musical guest, Pensacola native Jordan Chase, graced the stage and had everyone in awe of his vocal abilities, just as he did on season 17 of The Voice and season 20 of American Idol. This event was a night to remember, and all to benefit Junior Achievement, whose mission is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy.

Gene & Amanda Hurd

Sara Lefevers & Lacey Cosentino

David & Ally Bryant

Michelle & Phil Salzman

Rianna & Stefan Jorgenson

Victor & Melanie Luna

Nicklaus Williams-Heath, Christine Kellogg, Jessica Jensen, Emma Jensen, Alicia Christy, Nichole Stacey & Sid Williams-Heath August 2022 | 39

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VIP Pensacola at Life’s A Dance

Haleigh Vance & Kenzie Hathoot

Anna Cates & Samantha Gallant

Ben & Kristina Zimmern

Jennifer & Doug Shoemaker

Alison Houghton & Brian Williams

Diane Kirkpatrick & Angela Anderson

Cristina Williams & Tina Tortomase

Robbie & Adam Schrock 40

Stacy Keller-Williams & Cassandra Stokes

Daniella Karagach & Pasha Pashkov

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Madelyn Mayes, Angel Afalava, Kathy Robinson & Judy Fitzpatrick

Thanks for voting us

Best in Pensacola!

Casual Dining & Locally Owned Restaurant

Marsha Morrow & Glenda Morrow

Large Wine Selection Full Bar NOW Open Outdoor Patio

Dan Magaw, Eric & Trish Luna, Justin Guilmete

HOURS Lunch: Tuesday - Friday: 11 am - 3 pm Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday: 4 pm - 9 pm Brunch: Sunday: 11 am - 2 pm

Josiah Walker & Jordon Chase

Cordova Marketplace 4350 Bayou Blvd · Pensacola, FL 850.477.9120 · obriensbistro.net August 2022 | 41

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST Air Conditioning and Heating Company!

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7/28/22 9:14 PM

F e e d t h e F ir e W it h in Y o u t o B e c o m e a L e a d e r in Y o u r F ie ld written by Verla Price

There are ways to stand out, move ahead of other young professionals in the market, and place yourself with the movers and shakers. Your path to success often begins as an excited, energetic, motivated, young person at the chamber breakfast meetings. Then you show up at different networking meetings and events. Then, local businesspeople start introducing you to their associates and mentoring you. You are on your way to becoming a solid businessperson in a successful career running your own company someday. Every single decision you make early on is vital to your success in the business world. F ind a career p ath and follow it: Become dedicated to the company that gave you a chance. Promote the business, assist in the company's growth and you will grow and prosper as the business excels. Business owners see a resumè cross their desk and the applicant might have the skills needed, but red ags may define the person as a job jumper, and they go into the do not hire pile. Granted, the person might be a ualified candidate. owever, with the time and effort it takes to bring a person to greatness within a company, decision makers are not willing to take the chance on a person agged as a job jumper. F inding th e correct p osition starts w ith th e interview : esearch the company, ask uestions, find out if this position fits you and you can build a career with this company. Never make the mistake of taking a job until something better comes along. Every single decision you make is vital to your success. Do not become a job jumper changing positions every time the ne t company posts for resumès.

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F ocus on th e good: earn to enjoy your daily work activities by starting with the right mindset. After all -- the word work has a meaning. You will be doing things you love and enjoy, and you will also be required to complete menial tasks and mind-numbing reports. Reality will set in after a few months, and you will reali e this is a job. You must get up early and stay late. You start feeling underpaid and overworked, maybe even unappreciated. Remind yourself why you took the position, buckle down, and work through it because if you leave or quit, you can begin the path of the job jumper and become un-hirable. Frankly, all companies have good qualities and bad -both fun and mundane workdays exist. FOCUS on the good. Only talk about the good things. Make a list of your achievements and keep it on your desk, reading it daily.

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Feed the ﬁre within you with positives, motivation, and success. The person with the brightest ﬁre will stand out in every crowd.

Self Motivation: In order to rise above the others in your ﬁeld, you must be in a constantly positive, motivated mood. People enjoy working with and helping happy people. No one wants to be around a negative person who is always complaining. With today's technology, it is much easier to ﬁnd ways to be motivated. In the past, we listened to CDs, read books, and attended training seminars. All you have to do is sign up for daily emails trending in the market, subscribe to training and daily motivational sites, listen to podcasts, and regularly give yourself compliments. You deserve to feel good about yourself.

Protect your image. Nothing is more important than your image in the market. People will talk about you, so make sure it is all good. Be trustworthy, maintain high ethical standards, and support good causes. Always operate with integrity, and above all else, do not tarnish the credibility of others. Mentor: Find a mentor who is successful and well-liked by others. Emulate his actions and learn to follow his path.

Stand out: If you want to rub shoulders with the decisionmakers in town, you need to be visible—volunteer for charity events, job fairs, public speaking events, and all networking events. Invest in yourself: You are lucky if you join a company that invests in your continued training and pays to send you to motivational seminars. You must also invest in yourself, however. Attend professional development classes, invest in subscriptions to newsletters in your business category, buy books, and read them when waiting for an appointment or on lunch break. Join professional associations such as the local chambers. Don't miss any chance to learn more about your profession or be around successful people. Utilize social media to your advantage: Create pages for yourself on all social media outlets. Your business associates will see your personal social media pages. A good rule is to post only things you want your client or manager to read.

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-- Y O U N G P R O F E S S I O N A L S --

Athena Guice

Licensed Massage Therapist, Chiropractic Assistant Henry Chiropractic Athena Guice grew up on a 40-acre farm in Ohio with a solar powered home and gardens the size of football fields. They canned the food they raised, lasting throughout the winter. Her hardworking and self-sufficient parents raised 3 responsible children who care about what they represent. Her dad is now a military chaplain, proudly serving our country. Athena graduated massage school from Fortis Institute in 2020. Athena’s mission as a massage therapist is to provide a holistic solution for patients with pain or muscular dysfunction. While allopathy is vital, she is passionate about the homeopathic approach at Henry Chiropractic. She hopes to be a part of the bridge leading patients away from pain and towards pain-free movement. Watching the recovery of the many car accident victims they see is fulfilling. Initially, they experience debilitating pain, which prevents them from living their life. Many patients recover fully and return to work. Assisting people after an injury to get back to their life is a priority for Athena and her colleagues. The best part of Athena’s workday is seeing patients and working with colleagues. Dr. Henry has established an exceptional workplace where patients and employees are valued – “he genuinely cares about us. We have something unique, and I am grateful to be a part of it.“ Athena and husband, Daniel enjoy traveling to see art and antiques. They love seeing Monets, Van Goghs, Picassos, and Dalis in person. Anything they get to do together is a great thing. Her husband also has a significant back injury that required surgery, for which she frequently provides therapy and care. Fun fact -- In fourth grade, her teacher read a fantastic popup book by Robert Sabuda -- The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The intricacy of each page sparked her interest in a lifelong collection.

Thank you to all who voted for us..

Best Bridal Store! Do Not Miss Promoting Your Business in Our September

Leading Ladies Issue Various opportunities exist to showcase your product r service t t e area’s most savvy women. Call: 850.502.7970 Email: Verla@VIPDestin.com

Browse our collection online at PensacolaBridalLoft.com or FB/IG. Call us at 850-475-8296 to schedule an appointment. 4400 Bayou Blvd Suite# 48, Pensacola, FL 32503 www.facebook.com/bridalloftpcola www.instagram.com/bridalloftpcola/ August 2022 | 45

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-- Y O U N G P R O F E S S I O N A L S --

Phil Zayas

Founder/Brewer Emerald Republic Brewing Company In his 20s living in Dallas, TX, working as a social worker with at-risk teens, Phil developed a hobby as an amateur homebrewer. Wanting to learn everything he could about the industry, he worked on the side as a cellarman at Franconia Brewing Company while maintaining his role as a social worker. Later, he transitioned to Andrews Distributing in Dallas as a beer sales rep which primed him for a prestigious role in sales for New Belgium Brewing Company out of Fort Collins, CO. This position transferred him to Pensacola, FL. After four years, he knew owning his own brewery was his true calling. He returned to school at the University of California Davis but knew he had come home to Pensacola and decided to open his dream in our area – Emerald Republic Brewing Company. Phil’s focus on exceptional quality and a unique customer experience has yielded amazing success, generating a cult following of beer enthusiasts in the area. Fresh and raw ingredients combined with creative and innovative ideas continue to provide Pensacola with an exceptional beer experience. Fun fact -- When I lived in Dallas, my friend and I were walking around searching for my car after an evening out. We were cutting through some back alleys and we accidentally stumbled in the back of a concert venue where the band, Velvet Revolver, had performed. It was a post-concert after party, so we started to mingle. I got to meet Slash, who was pretty cool guy! After awhile, security realized we did not belong and I was promptly tossed out!

Nick Porter

President & CEO Premier Workforce Solutions, LLC Born and raised in Pensacola. Nick is happily married to Megan Porter, and they have two fun, rambunctious sons, Jamie and Ollie and two dogs, Ally and Hermione. Nick has a BS in Business Administration & Management from the University of West Florida. His background is in the benefits, compensation, and total rewards space of HR, having spent more than ten years as a Director/ VP of Total Rewards for hospitals and Long-Term Care facilities before starting Premier Workforce Solutions. He is passionate about unlocking other organizations’ potential and empowering change through delivering customized, integrated solutions. Nick chose a career in Human Resources to make sure employees have the best experience possible, while also helping an organization grow and flourish. Every organization is different, and managing the balance between understanding the needs of the employees and the larger ecosystem is extremely rewarding for Nick. Nick is continually networking and meeting new people which has empowered him to build mutually beneficial relationships across multiple industries. He is passionate about helping people overcome their current business challenges and relationships are the key to Premier’s success. Premier’s slogan is “We have the solutions.” He and his team pride themselves in being an innovative HR Consulting Firm that builds a comprehensive, scalable, affordable solution that is tailored to each clients’ specific needs. Away from the office, Nick coaches T-ball and stays involved in the community and school as much as possible. He strives to make sure he is giving back and never forgets to enjoy all that living on the Gulf Coast has to offer his family. Fun fact -- My family and I open our home up regularly to foster pups while helping them get placed in permanent homes here in Escambia County. We are avid dog lovers. Also, I am a self-taught speed reader from a young age! 46

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-- Y O U N G P R O F E S S I O N A L S --

Justin Sketoe

Golf Couse Superintendent Scenic Hills Country Club Justin Sketoe grew up enjoying the game of golf. He and his wife moved to Gulf Shores in 2015 and his goal was to play free golf, so he took a job on the maintenance crew at Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club. He quickly realized that he had a passion for the turf industry. One thing led to another and today he is on staff at Scenic Hills Country Club. Justin completed his associates degree in horticulture from Florida Gateway College. Born in Lake Wales, Florida, Justin spent much of his life in Columbiana, Alabama. He and is wife, Raven, have a six-year-old son, Silas James “SJ” and a daughter, Palmer who is two years old. Justin and his team are currently in the middle of an extensive four-year restoration plan. They push hard daily to get the golf course in peak shape, beginning at 5:30am -- before golfers arrive -- trying to fine tune the details that will take their course to the next level. Justin’s favorite time of day is daybreak-- “I can’t imagine a better backdrop than the ones you get driving around the golf course as the sun comes up. There is something calming and peaceful about that moment. “ Justin enjoys spending time with his family at the beach, the park, or in the back yard. The Sketoes serve their church, spending lots of time there as well. And, of course, he gets in a game of golf whenever time allows. Fun fact -- Justin can only jump rope backwards. He is a huge Atlanta Braves fan and went to game 3 of the 2021 World Series. He still holds true to waiting 30 minutes after eating before swimming.

Carter Lackey

Vice President/Agent Thompson-Walden Insurance Carter Lackey’s father-in-law, Bobby Emmons, invited him to join his insurance firm back in 2011 in attempts to bring them home from Wichita, Kansas. Carter grew up in Hoover, AL, and moved to Gulf Breeze in high school. He attended Jacksonville University and then Florida State University. Carter has been married to April for 12 years. They have a 10 year-old daughter, Payton, and a 2 year-old lab named Hunter. Carter specializes in consulting with clients on how to protect their real estate and business dreams in an everchanging industry. He loves advising clients and works hard to stay on top of current trends and issues. Carter is proud of the business they have established – their slogan is “One Agency – More Choices!” When not advising clients, Carter enjoys spending time with his family, watching his daughter play soccer, hunting, and playing golf. Fun fact -- Loves to cut up and have a good time when not in the office!

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THANK

YOU

FOR VOTING US

BEST PLACE FOR A DATE

BEST PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS/FAMILY

MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS RATE $3.50/game & complimentary shoes 7 days/week, 365 days a year

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7/28/22 9:16 PM

VIP Pensacola at Seville Quarter

25th Annual

Crab Cake Cook-Off photos & story by Nicole Partridge

Angela D’Alessandro & Terri Ramos

Elizabeth Baer, Fenoy Butler & Monique LeClair

Annah Lewis & Pasqual Burgess

Keith Bishop & Chenoa Payne

eville Quarter was sizzling with excitement for the Arc Gateway’s Crab Cake Cook-Off on July 20. Featured chefs from across the Gulf Coast were invited to compete for Best Crab Cake bragging rights. To say the competition was “hot” is an understatement! Judge’s Choice winners were: First Place-Azalea Trace, Second Place-The Old Guys and Third Place-Jaco’s and the winners of the People’s Choice were: First Place-Azalea Trace, Second Place-Chefs at Your Door, and Third Place-Jaco’s. The Krewe of SWAT Community Ambassadors hosted this iconic sold-out event, with many thanks to Buck Mitchell and everyone at Seville Quarter. Guests enjoyed a silent auction, and priceless art pieces from Arc Gateway artists. VIP Ticket holders were first on the scene, entering on the red carpet, with access to the VIP lounge and signature cocktails in commemorative drinkware. Brent Lane of Cat Country 98.7 emceed the evening, mixed with live music by Britt Landrum. The presenting sponsors were Sims Orthodontics and Jewelers Trade Shop. Many additional local business sponsors and community supporters enjoyed AYCE Crab Cakes while hoping they were called for the chance to win a New Orleans Saints superfan prize package. Proceeds benefit the Arc Gateway, which provides life changing programs and services for more than 1,200 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. These individuals can lead a more independent life, learn new skills, make friends, and create memories while gaining valuable career skills.

Penny & Leo Lynne

David Narloch & JoAnna Cope

Krewe of SWAT Community Ambassadors August 2022 | 51

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VIP Pensacola at the 25th Annual Crab Cake Cook-Off

Caitlyn & Grayson Miller

Shirley Kelley & Sarah Gibson

Lydon, Caitlyn Zahour, Jesse Cooks, James Fontaine, Kristin Bonnell & Brad Stimmel

Larry & Lisa Fahy

Bob & Janet Olliff

Arleen Lynne, Vanessa & Jeff Gulsby, Bridgette Jensen & Virginia Stricklin 52

Jim & Sherry Hobbs

Ed Villar, Venesulia Carr & Marte Picker

Carla Urquhart, Jeremy & Jennifer Reese

Tonya Zimmern, Lauren McReynolds & Stephen Rampersad

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7/28/22 9:18 PM

Suzanne Spann, Mary Mattheiss, Rose Stopp & Diana McRory

Ashley & George Misleh & Missy Rogers

Bella Costa, Kaleigh Gordon, Payton Anderson & Lindsey Torgersen

Dean Baird, Maryann McMahon & Buck Mitchell August 2022 | 53

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5-time winner!

THANK YOU for voting us Best Wedding Caterer in Pensacola!

850-469-0445 www.culinaryproductions.net

15% OFF MILITARY DISCOUNT

Voted IN Weekly’s Best Wedding Caterer AND/OR Best Caterer

11 Years Running

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Smooth(ie) Operator

story by Anna Stockton

hey say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It gets you moving, energized, and ready to take on whatever life throws at you. Of course, what you choose to have for breakfast helps determine your level of readiness, for example, having a high sugar treat like a donut for breakfast may leave you ready to test the “nappability” of your office chair rather than leaving you ready to take on the day. High protein, high fiber, and nutrients are key in finding that morning meal that will fuel your day and keep you at your peak performance. Breakfast smoothies are a quick and easy way to start your day off with a healthy power play.

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Of course, not all smoothies are created equal. Some give you more calories and processed sugar than what you’d need in an entire day, so using the right ingredients is key. This power-packed smoothie is made with all natural foods, perfectly combined to make a tasty and healthy start to your day. Rolled oats are highly nutritious with the added bonus of possibly lowering blood pressure. Oats are high in fiber and carbohydrates, so they keep you full longer. Greek yogurt is another power food, high in protein it helps boost your metabolism along with improving bone health. This yogurt can also help you build muscle mass, improve gut health with its probiotics, and studies have shown it can lower your risk of type two diabetes. Spinach has long been known as a super food, with a high iron content, vitamins A and C, and plenty of calcium. These leafy greens can also help with eye health and potentially aid with cancer prevention. The fruits in this smoothie are healthy heroes all on their own. Orange juice is a powerhouse fruit juice loaded with vitamin C and folate. This juice is high in nutrients as well as antioxidants that are important for maintaining overall health. Orange juice also has qualities that can prevent kidney stones, promote heart health, and reduce inflammation. Bananas are often overlooked as the rockstar fruits they are. Not only are they full of antioxidants, but the potassium in this fruit also helps keep your heart healthy along with helping with muscle recovery after a strenuous workout. Blueberries are low in calories and high in nutrients. They’ve also been proven to reduce the DNA damage done to our cells as well as improve brain function and improve memory. Combining all these power foods into one super powered smoothie is a tasty way to take advantage of the ingredients’ multiple health benefits, while the high fiber and protein keep you full of energy to help you make the most of your day.

Power Packed Smoothie Ingredients:

1 cup orange juice 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt 1 banana 1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries 3 cups baby spinach 1 cup ice

Directions:

Add all ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth.

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Thank You for Voting Us Best Payroll/HR Firm 4 Years in a Row

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Time Clock/ Time Tracking Payroll Services mployee Benefits isk Management & afety orkers’ Compensation Insurance uman esources Solving issues in HR for companies with 5 to 5,000 employees. Our goals are to increase your profitability, mitigate your employment related liabilities, help attract and retain top talent, and maximize your employee productivity.

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VIP Pensacola at Pensacola State College

Andrea Krieger & Dr. Troy Tippett

Catherine Hedden & Kelly MacLeod

Madison Bales & Jim Reeves

PSC Garde Manger Celebration photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

SC’s annual Garde Manger Celebration on July 20 brought more than 140 of the college’s donors and supporters to the Pensacola campus, featuring food, fun, and friendship. Students in the culinary program’s Garde Manger class prepared the dishes, which ranged from tropical pork sliders and salmon-stuffed tomatoes to roasted pepper salad and strawberry basil soup. Hosted annually since 2009 by PSC President Ed Meadows and

the PSC Foundation, the event is a big “thank-you” to donors whose financial gifts help fund student scholarships, programs, facilities, and more. This event is important for all the students, some may get jobs and/or receive business cards from the local Pensacola restaurants for a personal invite to go visit them. This event is a great way to connect students with local restaurants and start their amazing careers right here in our own communities.

Patrice S. Whitten & Julie Sheppard

JP & Rachael Whibbs

Mark Diamond & Meagan Pearson

Elizabeth Oaks & Lisa Brown

Rob Gregg & Laura Hill

Elizabeth Lopez & Nicole Partridge

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Dr. Ed Meadows & Trey Poirier

Verla Price, Sophie Knott & Gulnaz Okumus

Mike Listau & Chef David Langham

Ed Maiellaro, Margie & Alan Moore August 2022 | 59

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7/28/22 9:21 PM

Beachy Office Vibes story by Anna Stockton photos by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Melissa Fertitta, Director of Operations, Steven Franco, CEO, Melanie Gray, Administrator

he professional climate has changed in the last decade or so -- gone are the days of a stiff office environment, sitting in a cubicle, clocking in at nine, leaving at five. The COVID pandemic confirmed this even further when we found that the office worker doesn’t have to be in a traditional office setting to be productive. As the ways we work have changed, so have the opportunities for unique, modern workspaces like Beachworx, showing us a new and different way to do business. Located along Emerald Coast Parkway in Destin, Beachworx is a coworking office space like no other.

Originally designed for vacationers visiting the area, who have a houseful and just need a little peace and quiet to get some work done, this unique office space has morphed into a place popular with local businesspeople. With flexible, affordable coworking space, Beachworx offers private office suites as well as an open-concept coworking space, and even board room and meeting spaces are available. Hot desks can be rented in the coworking space by the day, week, or even month-tomonth. These hot desks are a great opportunity to get your work done in a space that’s not only functional but also offers a great opportunity to network with other hot desk tenants. If a quieter workspace is needed, private offices are a flexible alternative to traditional commercial office spaces with no long-term lease commitments. These are available to rent month to month and come fully furnished, although you’re welcome to bring your own furniture or special touches to personalize your space. If you need to do a presentation or meet with important clients, BeachWorx’s boardroom is the way to go. The boardroom comfortably seats 10 people at the table, however, seating can be configured to accommodate an additional 12 people if needed. Whiteboard, conference phone, presentation tools for Mac and PC are all available to the client. In addition to these cool options, Beachworx also offers another unique idea --

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the virtual address. This is perfect for someone who has a home-based business and wants to have an actual brick and mortar address for their business that’s not their home address. This gives more credibility to your business when a professional office building comes up in a Google search. A virtual address is also important for the safety and security of your family as it will ensure a disgruntled or enthusiastic client can’t just drop by unannounced. Virtual memberships are also great for those who want to have an address to expand their businesses to the Florida market. Beachworx is the vision of Owner Steven Franco, whose realty business, Rodos Realty Partners, purchased the Destin Commerce Center in 2016. At the time, the four-story office building was leased with long-term tenants Merrill Lynch and a national bank. The third floor was available for lease and Steven, a native of Atlanta, believed the coworking concepts that were taking off around that time in larger markets would be a great amenity for the beach. In the beginning, Beachworx’s open coworking space was very popular, but Franco quickly realized there was an even larger demand for executive suites, also known as their private offices. This led to the build-out of three additional suites on the third floor. Now the coworking company is expanding to the second floor with even more executive suites to fill the demand for private office spaces. Beachworx takes pride in taking care of their clients and helping them make the most of business and networking opportunities available. For instance, their hot desk promotions include a partnership with VIP Destin Magazine. For $600 per month, you get a dedicated desk, meaning you can leave your computer, personal effects, etc., at a hot desk, and you receive additional marketing support for your business in VIP Destin Magazine. You’ll get your logo on your desk, similar to private office members, who put their logo on their office window. In addition, you’ll get your logo on one rotation on Beachworx’s digital pylon on HWY 98, with about 52,000 daily views from drivers. Your logo and a 25-word tagline will appear on the Beachworx ad in VIP Destin Magazine. Plus, you’ll be invited to VIP Destin’s advertiser-only events and be included in a quarterly VIP Destin email blast that reaches 85,000 people. As the professional climate changes, changing your own business climate to something a little beachier isn’t a bad idea. So, whether you’re on vacation and enjoying the beautiful Gulf Coast waters, working from home and needing a little peace and quiet, or looking to expand your networking and business contacts, Beachworx has the opportunities you’re looking for.

@thebeachworx 34990 Emerald Coast Pkwy. | Suite 300 Destin, FL thebeachworx.com | (850) 974-3435 August 2022 | 61

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7/29/22 9:59 AM

VIP Pensacola at LandrumHR

Kara Bloomberg & Mandy Resmondo

Britt Landrum, Stephanie Alvarez & Todd Thomson

Summer Social photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

andrumHR held a social gathering of some 45 local business people on July 19 for their annual Summer Social in support of ReadyKids. LandrumHR shares in the Ready Kids! vision for every student to start kindergarten prepared to learn, and dedicated the event to their cause. Britt Landrum III shared with guests that, “As a business community, we can make a difference in the lives of our children by supporting organizations like Ready Kids!, as they work to give kids the best possible start in life.” The event was timely as July is National Make a Difference to a Child Month. At the event, LandrumHR collected the most critical items and supplies needed by Ready Kids! and presented them with a check to help them prepare for going back to school this fall.

Robert Bender & Melanie Rhodes

David Deliman & Dave Hoxeng

Bruce Vredenburg & James Hosman

Brian Wyer, Mindi Crain, Kristy Craig & Andrew Sowell

Hong Potomski & Ildi Hosman

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Johnathan Taylor, Tracy Steiner Faircloth & Chae Kyle

Your Neighborhood Pub Family & Locally Owned | Pensacola’s go-to spot for great food & great views!

Chris Bloomberg, Scott Ritchie & Alan Ritchie

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670 Scenic highway, Pensacola | 850-332-5838 Monica Wright, Lexi West & Rachel Mock August 2022 | 63

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Thank you for voting us

Best Place for a Tux

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A perfect groom for the perfect day. From beach weddings to country club affairs, Gent’s Formal Wear has your style. Serving the Gulf Coast from Gulf Shores, Alabama to Destin, Florida

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7/28/22 9:22 PM

Stylish Staples

story by Anna Stockton

hether you’re a young professional just starting out, a stay-at-home parent reentering the work force, or someone who may be switching careers, you may be overwhelmed with the thought that you have to find something to wear to work, every. single. day. Before you start panicking and pondering why you need to spend money to buy clothes so you can go make money, keep in mind a few solid pieces go a long way when building your work wardrobe.

Blazing Trails A well-tailored blazer will be your best friend in the workplace, as it can complete your suit or be worn over a wrap dress for a more polished look. It’s better to go with a classic cut and avoid trends as trends come and go (shoulder pads, anyone?). Your blazer will serve you far longer in a traditional style. Tailoring is key and gives a professional and put together look. It’s even more important for the fellas to have a few welltailored and classic blazers in their closet. This wardrobe staple will easily transition from the boardroom to a night at the ballet. Singing the Blues Assuming you don’t have someone like Meredith from The Office, whose wildly inappropriate casual Friday attire ruins the privilege for everyone, your office will probably have a dress down day at some point. A good, office-appropriate pair of jeans will come in handy and allow you to participate without breaking the rules. Go with wide-leg, straight, or boot-cut jeans for the most professional look. Stay away from skinny jeans or jeggings as those tend to be too tight for an office setting and make you the one responsible for the end of casual Friday. Good luck getting invited to the office happy hour after being the “fun ruiner.” Best Foot Forward Good shoes will take you far, literally. A pair of shoes that are professional, fashionable, and versatile are a fabulous investment. Going with a nude or black pair of heels or flats will get you more bang for your buck as you can wear them with more outfits, while sticking with a more classic style means you can wear them for years to come without looking dated and “out of style.” This is a good investment for the men as well. A nice, polished pair of dress shoes are important for a good first impression. Going with a classic oxford or dressed up loafer is sure to last you for years and never go out of style. August 2022 | 65

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“Dress” for Success Dresses are another important staple in your business wardrobe. Sheath dresses are a stylish yet professional option that is versatile enough to be dressed up when paired with a blazer or down when worn by itself. Sheath dresses generally have a tailored look that is perfect for an office setting. Another great option is a wrap dress. Wrap dresses are a girl’s best friend as they’re flattering to most body types and are versatile enough to easily go from a business setting to a night out. Of course, making sure necklines and hemlines are office appropriate is important when choosing a dress, keeping it classy will ensure you’re taken seriously as the smart, professional woman you are. Exercise your right to Accessorize Accessories are the icing on the cake of professional outfits. Men’s ties, belts, cufflinks, etc. are all important in obtaining a polished, office-ready outfit. And while it’s nice to express your individuality and personality, classic staples are the way to go when you want to give a professional and squared away impression. I’m not saying you need to throw away your Hooters tie, maybe just save it for a different, more appropriate occasion. Ladies have more leeway when it comes to accessories. Going a little wild with prints, interesting earrings, and fun handbags are all acceptable and are good staples for your wardrobe as long as they still give the impression of professionalism.

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Thank You Pensacola! For Voting Us Best Contractors!

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7/28/22 9:23 PM

VIP Pensacola at the Greater Pensacola Chamber

Brandon Melton & Fran Crumpton

John Walsh & Cali Scully

George Bridges & Quinn Breaux, II

Open House & Business Expo photos & story by Nicole Partridge

he salty sea breeze greeted attendees at the Greater Pensacola Chamber office in beautiful downtown Pensacola at 418 West Garden Street on July 21. Area professionals showcased their businesses in a relaxed networking environment. Todd Thompson, President/CEO of the Greater Pensacola Chamber offered a warm welcome to attendees. The evening featured great music by mix-master Liko Crump, who also reached the digital masses with a live broadcast. Over 50 attendees ventured through the Open House & Business Expo learning about products and services offered throughout the greater Pensacola area. Sweet and salty was the theme for snacks all around. Crumbl Cookies offered a gourmet treat, while others offered savory dips, brownies, chicken tenders, fresh fruit and vegetables, and the amazing “Blue” cocktail. Door prizes provided a way to connect with potential clients and have a “shout out” for your business.

Nate Spitsbergen & Arleen Lynne

Jamie LaPointe & Steve Kerr

Todd Thomson & Steve Clopton

Ronnie Rivera, Whitney Lucas & Sheriff Chip Simmons August 2022 | 69

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VIP Pensacola at Open House & Business Expo

Patti Easton & Audrey Preston

Ashley Rowzee & Janet Walsh

Willa Licata, Darra Flanagan & Emily Shelton

Robbie Schell & Pamela Liberto

Tina Henson & Chasity Brooks

Jim Crutcher & Jim Beran

Brooke Greene & Jodi Brown

Lisa Allen & Katie Watson

Abraham Sculley, Jena Melancon & Fani Sculley

Liko Krump & Mark VanWagenan

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VEHICLE NOT RUNNING RIGHT?

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IS THE ONLY PARTNER YOU’LL EVER NEED IN PROPERTY RESTORATION First Onsite is your trusted, full-service disaster recovery and property restoration company, serving North America and beyond. We partner with you to prepare for the threat of catastrophe and to be the first team on-site after disaster strikes. We are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and you can request our services at any time.

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GI V E | C A R E | S H A R E

Interview with Ashton Hayward III, President Andrews Research and Education Foundation What is the Andrews Research and Education Foundation? Andrews Research & Education Foundation is a prestigious medical research center that brings together the highest levels of sports medicine education from doctors, researchers, and rehabilitation professionals. Collaboration at this level generates momentous opportunities. We collaborate with our health system partner Baptist Healthcare, Andrews Institute physicians, and industry leaders to research cutting edge solutions that impact the future of sports medicine, and we offer specialized fellowship programs preparing the next generation of physicians and surgeons with real-world experience and mentoring. We also deliver high quality education through our videos, webinars, seminars, conferences, and publications. How did the organization come about? The Andrews Research & Education Foundation was founded in 2007 as an integral part of the Andrews Institute where physicians could engage in groundbreaking medical research and disseminate educational information to the healthcare community and patients. According to Dr. James Andrews, “The facility was a natural way to house the research and education to train and educate fellows in orthopedic sports medicine, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and coaches to help prevent sports injuries. It was part of the design to have research and education on campus.” 72

What effect does the Foundation have on the community (and the medical community)? When you think about healthcare, the unique thing that really separates us here on the Andrews campus is that we provide opportunities and the best access, which is something that Dr. Andrews preaches. You can see a physician, get rehab done, evaluate human performance, and more, with an emphasis on research and education. Our goal is to be a leader in the field of musculoskeletal research and education to advance the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and enhance human performance and quality of life for people of all ages. With our team of physicians and partnerships, we offer our patients some of the most advanced healthcare in the U.S. We are also able to offer patients the opportunity to participate in clinical research which can provide more and better treatment options and other opportunities to improve their health outcomes. How is Andrews Research and Education Foundation funded? The Foundation is a non-profit that relies on philanthropic support to continue our many research and educational platforms. When we receive donations, we want to make sure our donors know who they are supporting and how it is impacting the community. We strive to fulfi ll our mission through our fellows, biomechanics lab, surgical skills lab, and our regenerative

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How did you become involved with the Foundation? When I decided against running for a third term as mayor of Pensacola, I knew I still wanted to be engaged in our community and make an impact in people’s lives. I knew healthcare was a perfect vehicle for this. The privilege of knowing Dr. Andrews for 20+ years and having two knee surgeries at the Andrews Institute, I fully knew what the Andrews Way was about. So, when the opportunity presented itself to work with the Andrews family, I was excited to learn what I didn’t know in healthcare and to experience what the incredible people in healthcare do daily, from the nurses to the techs to physicians to the researchers and everyone involved in direct and indirect care. Healthcare is very complex, so I knew that everything we do at Andrews Research from clinical trials, helping those in our special forces community, along with preparing the next generation of orthopedic surgeons through our Fellowship Program was a great opportunity to partner with the right team. The Andrews family has that with Dr. Andrews and Mark Faulkner, the CEO of Baptist Healthcare. lab. Our research in these areas enables us to expand both locally and nationally on enhanced or new techniques for treating youth, college, and professional athletes as well as our military and general population. We also receive funding through our partnership with Baptist Healthcare, sponsored clinical trials, government and private grants, our Andrews physicians, and contributions from those who want to support healthcare research. How can someone help, get involved, support, or donate? We welcome anyone with a passion for sports medicine, medical research, healthcare education, or related endeavors to reach out to us directly by phone or email to discuss ways we can partner. Our contacts are available on our website, as well as opportunities for careers, fellowships, and internships. Patients who want to participate in research studies and clinical trials can learn more on our website or by calling 850-916-8570 to see what opportunities they may qualify for. Our educational offerings can be found at andrewseducation.org. We host weekly lectures that are free and open to the public on Monday nights at the Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze or available via Zoom. We happily accept donations by check in the mail or online through our website. To keep up to date with the latest activities and offerings of Andrews Research & Education Foundation, text “AREF” to 22828 to subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

What’s your favorite thing about being part of the Andrews Research and Education Foundation? Being a part of creating value for our community when it comes to research and education. We get a front row seat with the research our physicians are doing here at our center of excellence. The obvious answer is working with Dr. Andrews and the rest of the team. The unique thing is that I know that we are making an impact on people’s lives to help them with their long-term healthcare needs every single day. I feel like when I leave to go home, I’ve learned something new every day, and we’ve impacted someone’s life, which is a real privilege to have the same experience here at Andrews as when I served the people of Pensacola. What else would you like our readers to know about the Foundation? When you think about the Andrews Institute and the Andrews Way, research is a big part of Dr. Andrews’ pillars. The great thing about Andrews Institute is that we are doing research, and serving not only Northwest Florida, but also patients from across the world. Our fellowship program physicians are training to be the next great leaders in orthopedic sports medicine across the country, and the really cool thing is that we are training them right here in Gulf Breeze and Pensacola, FL.

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VIP Pensacola at Sanders Beach Community Center

Divot Derby photos by Patti Hall story by Marty Stanovich

n Thursday, July 21, the golf community gathered at Sanders Beach to celebrate the 65th Annual Divot Derby Golf Tournament and Banquet, which is the oldest fully free junior golf tournament in the United States. Founded by Pensacola Sports in 1958, the five-day event, which began with a Sunday Skills Challenge at First Tee Gulf Coast’s home facility in Warrington, has been operated by FTGC since 1996 and is held at five local golf courses and free to area youth—thanks to the continued support of Pensacola Sports, the Andrews Institute, and the Bubba Watson Foundation. Watson, the 1994 champion, was there in person this year with his wife Angie, mother Molly, and their children Caleb and Dakota, who are now junior golfers playing in these programs as well. He presented the awards to all of the kids personally. Also awarded were the trophies for the 33rd Annual Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association Summer Tour, The Joe and Tracey Durrant college scholarships, and the Theresa J. Stanovich Memorial college scholarship. The event was preceded by a reception thanking the boosters, donors and sponsors who support the Divot Derby, as well as the operations of First Tee Gulf Coast and the GPJGA all year round.

Luke Godwin & Gabby Hultstrand

Dakota, Angie, Caleb, Bubba & Molly Watson

Jasmine Paynter & Cole Foster

Sheryl & Marty Stanovich

April Davidson & Craig Smith

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Thank you for voting us

BEST BOUTIQUE

Cheryl Weir, Tom & Martha Richard

A small plant boutique carrying a wide variety of use ants and ers.

Open

Great gift ideas and fun workshops!

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Susi Lyons, Paul Stanley & Lynn Green

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BEST FUNERAL HOME

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Pensacola: 100 Beverly Parkway 850.432.6146 www.fcfhs.com August 2022 | 75

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Thank you for voting us

BEST Financial Advisor

CALL FENOY BUTLER TODAY Experienced with Business & Personal Financial Planning Fenoy@riversidewa.com | linkedin.com/in/fenoybutler/ www.riversidewa.com mobile: 850.776.5483 | office: 850.208.3839 105 E. Gregory Square | Pensacola, FL 32502 Advisory Services offered through J. W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Riverside Wealth Advisors, LLC and JWCA are unaffiliated entities.

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7/28/22 9:26 PM

VIP Pensacola at Pensacola Little Theatre

Brandy Stokes & Gene Alexander

Clayton Knighten, Shaun Conroy, Katelyn Geri, Anna Miley & Nathan Myers

Crystal Awards T

photos & story by Kevin L Houghton

he Pensacola Little Theatre held their 26th Annual Crystal Awards on July 1. This was a night of ceremony, cocktails, and celebration as they honored their amazing volunteers with cherished awards. Volunteers are truly what made this a fantastic season of artistic excellence. The complimentary cocktail hour was fi lled with laughter among family and friends, followed by dinner provided by the evening’s sponsor,

Moe’s Southwest Grill. The event was hosted by Kathy Holsworth, Artistic Director, and Jay Bixler, Education Director, with The Little Theatre’s Executive Director, Sid Williams-Heath giving a welcome speech. After a brief intermission, awards were given to deserving volunteers that dedicated their time and talents with humility and generosity. This beautiful event was free to all volunteers, board members, and fans of the season.

Hong & Bobby Potomski

Flavio Souza & Robert Lambrisky

Fiama Mastrangelo & Joseph Mastrangelo

Alex Hilkey & Bryan Chapman

Kayla Stephenson, Kathy Holsworth, Jay Bixler & Topher Warren August 2022 | 77

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VIP Pensacola at the Crystal Awards

Nathan Simmons & Ashley McGlothren

Trudy Jenkins & Emma Jenkins

Ben & Hannah Vogel

Dominic Krippes, Olivia Delgado, Jennifer Knisbell & Emily Mixon

Christian Acevedo & Benjamin Haupt

Gwen & George Clark

Charles Davis & Dashawn Young

Cynthia & Dave Clark

Sid & Nicklaus Williams-Heath

Robbie Gonzalez, Eric Michael & Kyree Whitehead

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Wayne Peacock, Scott Haring & Mark Palmer

Hayley Earle & Anna Catherine Morgan

Cristina Fenger & Laura Lane

Melanie Haveard & Carol Mankins August 2022 | 79

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AUGUST 3-14 Cinderella Pensacola Little Theatre 400 South Jefferson Street | Pensacola Come enjoy a classic as you see the story of a kind girl named Cinderella who lives with her evil stepmother and hateful stepsisters after the death of her father. Forced to work as a maid in her own home, Cinderella dreams of an adventurous life. When it is announced that the Prince is giving a ball, Cinderella wishes to attend, but it seems impossible. With help from her animal friends and her magical Fairy Godmother, Cinderella’s dream of a lovely night comes to life. Go to PensacolaLittleTheatre.com for times and tickets.

AUGUST 15 Jackson’s and Julia: A Celebration of the 110th Birthday of Julia Child Jackson’s Steakhouse 400 S. Palafox Street Pensacola In celebration of chef Julia Child’s birthday, Jackson’s Steakhouse will be offering special features for dinner service in her honor. In addition to their regular dinner menu, Chef Irv Miller created two Julia Childinspired features for the evening; Julia’s renowned Beef Bourguignon recipe featuring slow-braised beef in red wine with bacon, onions, carrots, fresh herbs and mushrooms; as well as Julia’s classic Niçoise Salad featuring artisanal greens, blanched green beans, white potato salad, vine ripe tomatoes, hard boiled eggs, capers, broken grilled tuna, anchovy fi llets and black Niçoise olives. Visit jacksonsrestaurant.com for reservations.

AUGUST 16 AFP Lunch and Learn Hyatt Place Pensacola Airport 161 Airport Lane | Pensacola 11:30am-1:00pm Attention all nonprofits and foundations in Northwest Florida! Florida Nonprofit Alliance will be in person in Pensacola for the release of the Giving in Florida research. Join them to learn more about who is giving in Florida, how they are giving, and what causes could be on the receiving end of these gifts. Visit eventbrite.com/e/afp-lunch-and-learn-with-the-floridanonprofit-alliance-tickets-356574934227 for tickets.

AUGUST 21

AUGUST 25

Blues on the Bay - The Modern Eldorados

The Brandon Giles Show

Community Maritime Park 301 W. Main Street | Pensacola 6:00pm

Hub Stacey’s at the Point 5851 Galvez Road | Pensacola 6:00-10:00pm

The Modern Eldorados were formed in 1996 as a vehicle for singer/ songwriter Gretsch Lyles and songwriting partner, Chris Reid’s original brand of classic country music. Their live show is more than just a concert. It is a musical experience dripping with history and full of excitement. With all the conviction of an old-time gospel preacher, Lyles delivers his unique brand of witty southern humor. When the Modern Eldorados take the stage, class is in session for a wildly entertaining lesson in authentic American honky tonk.

Come on out to Hub Stacey’s at the Point for a show unlike any other. Brandon Giles has developed his own unique sound by taking the influences of rock ‘n’ roll artists such as Elvis, The Rolling Stones, The Doors, Hank Williams, Jr., and Jerry Lee Lewis, and combined that musical energy with a newer, hard rocking beat.

Visit facebook.com/bluesonthebaypensacola/ for more information.

Check out HubStaceys.com/BandSchedules.aspx for their schedule of events.

Visit www.VIPPensacola.com for more events! 80

| VIPPensacola.com

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I AM PENSACOLA

Alex Andrade

What is your hometown and how did you end up in the Pensacola area? I was born in the Cayman Islands. My family moved to Ft. Lauderdale when I was a toddler. I went to the University of Florida and met my wife, Jessica, our freshman year. She was raised here, and I fell in love with it over our 4 years in college. We moved back full time in 2014 after we graduated law school. What is your profession? I’m a lawyer at Moore, Hill & Westmoreland, P.A. and also the State Representative for Pensacola in the Florida Legislature. I love learning and studying new things. Both jobs allow me to constantly learn. I ran for the Florida House because I thought I could give the job the attention it deserved. I’m not the smartest, most capable or talented person in my district, but I WAS the most qualified person willing to run for the job. That dynamic is something I want to change. If you believe you’re the most qualified for a job in a public office, you should feel encouraged to run! It’s the only way we’ll have stronger leaders in public service. What are some of your favorite things about Pensacola? The Blue Angels, our beautiful beaches, our history, our downtown, our subtle but impressive cluster of professionals at the top of their game: i.e., our cyber security experts, the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, and the Andrews Institute. Every time someone comes from Tallahassee, I do my best to expose them to at least a few of these things and end the visit with an incredible dining experience downtown and maybe a Blue Wahoos game! Three words that best describe you. Sincere, Collaborative, Caring. Favorite places for going out? Hub Stacey’s (both at the Point and Downtown), Big Lagoon State Park, and Fort Pickens. What is one thing that you do not go a day without? Soda Water Finish this statement, I AM PENSACOLA because… I’m a transplant who put down deeper roots here than our live oaks. You couldn’t pay me to live anywhere else!

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