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BROOKE DISALVO The assistant U.S. District attorney is the 2025 recipient of the William S. Meador Award, presented annually by the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division. The award recognizes a young attorney who distinguishes themselves by their commitment to our community through charitable and civil service. The award was established in 2005 to honor the legacy left by Bill Meador of practicing law with integrity, sincerity and courtesy while recognizing Meador's commitment to giving back to the community. DiSalvo is a member of the 2023 Inweekly Rising Stars class, the same year she served as president of the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division.
MICHELLE SALZMAN The state lawmaker publicized on Facebook that she requested Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia to audit the Escambia County School Board following its decision to raise the capital outlay portion of its millage rate to 1.5 mills, which is the same as 59 other Florida counties. Rep. Salzman blindsided the school district without discussing her concerns with School Superintendent Keith Leonard. The district currently faces declining enrollment, down 4,200 students over five years, primarily due to school vouchers, which has reduced state funding. On Facebook, Salzman criticized the increase, stating families shouldn't "pay more" during inflation.
FRANK HARKINS In October, Harkins will retire as president and CEO of Goodwill Gulf Coast, concluding 50 years of nonprofit leadership. Harkins began his career in 1979 as senior administrator of Alabama Easter Seals Mobile, continuing through the organization's 1999 merger with Goodwill Gulf Coast. Under his leadership, Goodwill Gulf Coast expanded across 10 counties in Southwest Alabama and Northwest Florida, growing from vocational rehabilitation services to comprehensive programs including early childhood intervention, autism evaluation, literacy training and employment services. In fiscal year 2024, the organization served more than 14,000 individuals, with 90% of funds supporting direct programs. Board Chair Richard Wilkins said, "Frank's vision and heart have been the cornerstone of our mission."
CANDACE EDWARDS Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida has honored Edwards as the 2025 Santa Rosa County Big of the Year, recognizing her three-year mentorship with Little Sister Evie. Edwards has demonstrated commitment through activities ranging from beach walks and community service at assisted living facilities to providing academic encouragement and emotional support. Their relationship exemplifies the organization's one-to-one mentoring mission. During a July 25 presentation at the annual Governing Board Retreat, Evie praised Edwards' ability to create a "judgment-free zone" for open communication. Edwards was surprised with the award following the heartfelt presentation. Her dedication showcases the transformative power of mentoring relationships in empowering youth to reach their full potential.
IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT
Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for recruiting local deputies who completed federal training to assist with immigration enforcement. Speaking on the "(We Don't) Color on the Dog" podcast, Simmons revealed that ICE sent recruitment emails offering $50,000 signing bonuses to deputies who had received 287(g) certification through their local agencies. "That's biting the hand that feeds you," Simmons said, calling the practice "poor form." The controversy stems from ICE using contact information provided during the collaborative training program to recruit officers away from participating agencies directly. Notably, ICE did not send recruitment emails to state agencies like the Florida Highway Patrol, raising questions about their selective targeting of local departments that volunteered to help with federal immigration enforcement.
JEREMY REDFERN
Florida Attorney General's communications director allegedly violated state public records law by providing exclusive access to documents to a Politico reporter. State Rep. Alex Andrade claims Redfern delivered approximately 600 pages of printed documents to the reporter, granting a two-week exclusive on records that Andrade and other news outlets had requested since April. The documents are related to the Hope Florida Foundation and a Medicaid settlement agreement with Centene. The alleged violation is particularly notable since the Attorney General's office drafts Florida's Government in the Sunshine Manual, which guides compliance with the state's public records laws.
Brooke DiSalvo / Photo by Geoff Peck (@tinyobservations) Michelle Salzman / Photo Courtesy of flhouse.gov
outtakes
By Rick Outzen
A COLLABORATIVE MODEL
NAS Pensacola's recent decision to place Wild Greg's Saloon and Pharaoh 2 convenience store off-limits to military personnel represents both a necessary protective measure and a missed opportunity.
Commanding Officer Capt. Chandra Newman reluctantly made the call, but she has the responsibility not to expose her service members to unsafe and crime-conducive conditions, which she believes could adversely impact their health, morale, safety and welfare. However, our community also has a responsibility for their welfare while they are here.
Why can't we address these problems proactively instead of reactively? When Adm. Jack Fetterman chaired the Pensacola Chamber's Military Affairs committee over two decades ago, we did.
Pensacola had a proven model for addressing these challenges—the Underage Drinking Task Force that operated through the 1990s and 2000s. The initiative brought together base commanders, local law enforcement, business owners and community leaders to address problems before they escalated into off-limits designations. They meet at the end of each month to review the previous month's activities and decide how to handle any issues.
CPA Jeff DeWeese served on the task force and explained why it was so critical: "By the time they've gotten here, we have a lot of money as taxpayers invested in their training already. You don't want just to flush it because an 18-year-old made a bad choice."
PROACTIVE PARTNERSHIP We need to accept that young military personnel will seek entertainment and social opportunities regardless of restrictions. The question isn't whether 18-year-old service members fresh out of boot camp will venture into the community—it's whether that community will be prepared to support their responsible decision-making.
DeWeese explained that the beauty of the task force model is that it created an ongoing dialogue among all the stakeholders, rather than waiting for violations to pile up. Annual presentations ensured local establishments understood military ID requirements and age restrictions. Orientation programs taught new service members about local laws and identified appropriate venues.
In her email to Mayor D.C. Reeves, Capt. Newman stated that Wild Greg's received warnings in January and met with base officials this past April, but the situation did not improve.
Pharaoh 2 faced similar issues with underage sales and employee drug distribution. An Underage Task Force might have been able to intervene. The problem isn't necessarily bad actors but possibly insufficient systems for ongoing education, monitoring and support.
We need to remember that our military community is an economic engine. Many former students choose to return and make Pensacola their permanent home, contributing to our economy and community for decades. Besides, the offlimits designation sends a message to locals and visitors that parts of our community are unsafe. When we allow problems to fester until such designations become necessary, we risk damaging our local economy.
"Our intent is not to do harm to local businesses, and we want healthy, positive relationships with our community," Capt. Newman told the mayor. "We ask local businesses help us help sailors make responsible decisions, mitigate risks, have fun and ultimately protect our military readiness through active mitigations when our concerns are voiced."
BRING TASK FORCE BACK Resurrecting the Underage Drinking Task Force could be the answer to providing Capt. Newman the help that she needs. The Pensacola Chamber may not have the "juice" to pull it off, but Mayor Reeves and County Commission Chair Mike Kohler do.
Heck, we already have a proven framework to use. We bring together the NAS Pensacola commands, law enforcement, Downtown Improvement Board, Santa Rosa Island Authority, community leaders, advocacy groups and business owners, particularly establishments that service members frequent.
Regular quarterly meetings, similar to the U.S. Navy's planned reviews of off-limits establishments, could provide ongoing dialogue and early intervention opportunities. The sessions would allow businesses to ask questions, share concerns and receive guidance before problems escalate.
Pensacola has always been proud of its military history and our community's role in advancing the careers of service members. Their lives and futures are our responsibility, almost as much as Capt. Newman's. The Underage Drinking Task Force creates a partnership that ensures young service members, local businesses and community safety all thrive together.
It's time to resurrect this proven model of collaboration over confrontation. {in} rick@inweekly.net
By Tom St. Myer
CREATING A SENSE OF FAMILY
a position as director of external affairs at the University of West Florida (UWF).
"He's passionate about public office and public service," Andrade said of Smith. "He's a student of it. He has a breadth of knowledge that almost no one has. It's allowed him to develop into a leader, helped him get a lobbying gig and develop the skills and know-how from that experience to get a job with the City of Pensacola. I think he'll do really well at UWF over the next several years."
TALENTED PIPELINE CONTINUES
Andrade has kept the talented staff pipeline going with his current aides, Turner Mitchell and Kenzie Cueno. The UWF graduates aided Andrade through a whirlwind 2025 session. Andrade made national headlines as the Health Care Budget Subcommittee chair. He and his colleagues uncovered the $10 million of a Medicaid settlement had been given to the Hope Florida Foundations and partially funneled to a political committee coffer.
The Pensacola lawmaker infuriated Gov. Ron DeSantis when he aggressively questioned Hope Florida leaders about financial records and text messages that revealed the Hope Florida Foundation—the fundraising arm of First Lady Casey DeSantis' Hope Florida initiative—failed to file required tax forms or follow state law requiring open meetings.
As Katie and Brett Birmingham contemplated who would officiate their wedding, an obvious choice emerged. No, he had never officiated a wedding before, nor was he ordained, but State Rep. Alex Andrade was as much family to them as any blood relation and his skills as an orator were second to none.
The Pensacola lawmaker agreed to officiate their wedding, overcame first-time nerves and made a magical day for the couple even more special.
"He's always talking and speaking in front of people, but I feel like this is one of the jobs he was most nervous about," said Katie Birmingham, who served as his district and legislative aide from 2019-2022.
Andrade refers to the Birminghams as family. He says the same about all his current and former staff members, and they say the same about him.
"Alex is one of a kind in how he treats his aides," said Trevor Schaettle, who served as his legislative aide from 2022-2024 and as district secretary the two previous years. "There's a sense of family with Alex. Obviously, there's a sense of work, but he cares about the people in his office. He wants them to succeed."
EMPOWERED TO GROW
Post-Andrade success has come in waves for his aides and campaign managers. His staffers begin their first day as young, ambitious, earnest and inexperienced. They leave as sea -
soned, even more ambitious, and primed to succeed as lobbyists or staff members for highranking political figures.
His aides learn the tricks of the trade for minimal pay. They earn only $30,000-$40,000 to review emails, make sure his calendar is accurate, solve problems for constituents, determine which of his hundreds of meeting requests to say yes to, attend some meetings on his behalf and represent his office with the utmost class.
Andrade gives his staff the autonomy to succeed and challenges them to find solutions without inundating him with questions.
"I wouldn't say I'm the world's greatest manager, but I try to empower and franchise folks in ways that help them grow," Andrade said.
PATHS TO SUCCESS
Katie Birmingham is currently the district director for U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, acting as his liaison for 18 counties. Her responsibilities for Scott include planning events, relaying any policy issues to the team in Washington, D.C. and overseeing service academy nominations across the state.
Katie Birmingham learned how to juggle a hectic schedule for Scott from her three years with Andrade. She joined as the district aide, but when the legislative aide departed, Andrade called on her to hold down both positions.
"He trusted me to do both those roles, but he also trusted me to go out in the community and represent him," Katie Birmingham said. "... He gave me the self-confidence to do what I do in my role now."
Schaettle proceeded Birmingham as a legis lative aide. He parlayed his four-plus years with Andrade into a legislative affairs manager at the legal firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP. He resigned from there in July to accept a staff position in Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia's office.
Schaettle so enjoyed his time with Andrade that he turned down his share of job opportunities before he finally accepted the position at the legal firm.
"I felt a degree of loyalty to Alex," Schaettle said. "Even when jobs came down or we were being courted to go to a different industry, Alex was always the first person to say, 'Go for it. I'm behind you 100%.' There was always something that kept me there. I couldn't leave him."
Sydney Fowler began as his district secretary before transitioning to legislative aide for former State Rep. Jayer Williamson. She later served as a campaign manager for Danny Alvarez and then as a member liaison for the Republican Party of Florida. Fowler is currently a lobbyist for Oak Strategies, a lobbying and advocacy consultancy.
Andrade's former intern and campaign manager, Alex Smith, is another success story. Smith went on to serve as special assistant to Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves for over two years. Smith managed more than $75 million in appropriations and grants while serving as the legislative and constituent liaison. He facilitated high-profile development projects, assisted in land-use and financing agreements, and coordinated with government agencies and community partners. Smith resigned from the City in March to accept
As Andrade's legislative aide, Mitchell was with him in Tallahassee for the fireworks. Mitchell said he answered 60-70 meeting requests a week regarding the health care budget. "It was stressful, but I always tell people I'm excited to get back in October. It was fun. I like being in the know on what decisions are made."
Cueno holds down the fort in Pensacola. She served on his 2022 campaign, and Andrade recruited her last year to fill the district aide vacancy created when Mitchell replaced Schaettle. Cueno resigned as a paralegal to accept the position.
"It doesn't feel like he's this big, scary boss," Cueno said. "He's our friend. The relationship we have with Alex is a friendship, too, which I think is why he was so comfortable saying, 'Hey, you want to come back?'"
The talented aides will soon be searching for new positions with Andrade set to term out in November 2026. Like their predecessors, they will leave seasoned and primed to succeed in their future careers.
Mitchell explained what being part of the family means when he told stories about Andrade, his wife Jessica and their daughter Gillian welcoming everyone to their house for holiday and birthday parties. His favorite moment with Andrade occurred earlier this year at the Florida State Capitol when Gillian came for a visit.
"I was playing with Gillian in the office, and he comes in and takes her and he's holding her hand walking the rotunda of the second floor," Mitchell said. "It helps you see him as a human. At the end of the day, he's a friend. Actually, it's more like family than friendship." {in}
Photo Courtesy of Alex Andrade
AFFORDABLE HOMES Last week, Escambia County and Pensacola Habitat for Humanity hosted ribbon cuttings to celebrate 14 new affordable homes, as part of their partnership to provide more affordable housing to residents in need.
Escambia County built the homes to help meet the need for affordable housing in the community. Three houses were built for the county by McDelt, LLC with State Housing Initiative Partnership dollars, better known as SHIP funds. Each of those houses costs an average of $192,700 to build.
County-hired Shaffer Construction built seven infill houses with money provided through the American Rescue Plan Act in amounts ranging from $182,000 to $197,300. Pensacola Habitat built four homes for the county with Housing and Urban Development funds set aside for the Community Housing Development Organization. The costs ranged from $168,550 to $188,986.
The county partnered with Pensacola Habitat for Humanity to sell the homes to eligible buyers at or below 80% area median income in order of approved applications, connecting these buyers with brand-new homes in Escambia County and the City of Pensacola.
"Affordable housing is a vital need for so many people in our community, and I am excited to have the opportunity to change the lives of these 14 individuals and families through homeownership," said Lumon May, the District 3 commissioner, in a press release.
He continued, "On behalf of Escambia County, I'd like to congratulate each one of these homeowners as they begin this exciting next chapter of their lives, and I wish them many wonderful memories in their brand-new homes."
At one ribbon cutting, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity President Sam Young said, "What you might not have seen when we just opened the door is she was crying, the kid was smiling, and all she wanted to do was give me a big hug. But that happens over and over again. These families have fought so hard to get to this point, so it could not be more rewarding than what you just saw here today."
Commissioner May added, "Today, we're having people who are being able to come in and finance a $120,000 house and live in a neighborhood where people are selling homes for $600,000. So, it's a great day for Escambia County."
What made the ceremonies bittersweet was that the City of Pensacola ended its 32-year partnership with Escambia County for coordinated affordable housing efforts earlier this year. Mayor D.C. Reeves had complained about a lack of communication and transparency.
Former Pensacola Interim Housing Director Meredith Reeves complained that most of the homes purchased were outside of the city limits. She wanted more housing purchase help inside the city limits, where homes are often on average $40,000 higher. Meredith Reeves resigned last month.
In April, Mayor Reeves recommended the City take control of its SHIP funds, approximately $420,000 annually. The Pensacola City Council voted 7-0 to repeal the ordinance that created the city-county partnership.
ANONYMOUS POLITICAL POLL An expensive and sophisticated political poll that circulated throughout Pensacola appears designed to damage Mayor D.C. Reeves while simultaneously testing potential challengers for the 2026 mayoral race, according to sources who received the anonymous survey.
The poll, conducted through both phone calls and text messages, presents a stark contrast in how it treats local political figures. While heaping praise on State Rep. Alex Andrade, former Police Chief Eric Randall, Councilman Charles Bare and Escambia County Commissioner Lumon May—describing their "wonderful" accomplishments—it takes a decidedly different approach with the incumbent mayor.
Sources describe a series of pointed, negative questions about Reeves that read more like opposition research than neutral polling. The survey allegedly asked respondents questions including: "Do you realize that developers fund D.C.?," "Did you know D.C. installed red light cameras?" and "Do you realize how much D.C. has been out of town?"
One particularly inflammatory question reportedly asked whether respondents liked that the mayor "only pays attention to white people downtown."
Political experts note that combining phone surveys with text messaging significantly increases costs, suggesting whoever funded this effort has substantial financial resources. The phone portion reportedly lasted six to seven minutes and collected detailed demographic information, including party affiliation, race and gender—indicating a professional operation with serious political intent.
Multiple theories are circulating about the poll's sponsor. Some believe it represents early opposition research to identify the strongest potential challenger to Reeves in 2026. Others suggest it could be an attempt by political allies to highlight the mayor's vulnerabilities, while some speculate various local political figures may be involved.
When contacted, Rep. Andrade denied any involvement with the poll and said he was unaware
of it. "As a conservative Republican with a long record of conservative wins, I'm not sure I'm a fit for the City of Pensacola electorate," Andrade said. "I'm flattered to be considered, though."
Whether this poll represents campaign positioning, opposition research or internal political pressure, it signals that Mayor Reeves' political future is under scrutiny. The sophisticated nature of the operation and required resources suggest this isn't casual political gossip but rather a calculated effort by players with serious political intentions.
As the 2026 election cycle approaches, this anonymous survey may represent the opening salvo in what could become a contentious battle for Pensacola City Hall.
THANKS, MICHELLE State Rep. Michelle Salzman has requested Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia conduct an audit of Escambia County, specifically targeting the Escambia Children's Trust and the Escambia County School Board. This marks what may be the first instance of a state lawmaker directly involving themselves in a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) county audit.
The buzz is that Salzman might be targeting Mayor D.C. Reeves' demand for $2.4 million in Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) dollars from the Trust for his childcare crisis solution. The Trust has already committed the county's CRA funds to youth programs through an interlocal agreement with the Escambia County Commission.
Last week, the Escambia County School Board approved increasing its capital outlay to 1.5 mills, raising the total proposed millage rate to 5.359 mills—15.4% above the rollback rate. District 1 member Kevin Adams cast the lone dissenting vote, citing his promise to constituents never to raise property taxes if they supported a half-cent sales tax.
Salzman announced the audit request on Facebook while criticizing local tax increases, stating families shouldn't "pay more" during inflation. However, her campaign spending tells a different story—her PACs and official account have spent $156,268 since November's election despite having no opponent. The announcement came after attending a Republican Party gala in Orlando.
INVEST IN KIDS
Escambia County School Superintendent Keith Leonard defended the slight tax increase as necessary to address critical funding shortfalls caused by a devastating enrollment decline. The district has lost 4,200 students over the past five years, primarily due to Florida's expanding school voucher programs that allow families to use public funds for private education.
"It's not free," Leonard said, referring to the district's operational costs. The district operates 250 buses daily, maintains air conditioning and heating systems across dozens of schools, provides breakfast and lunch programs and serves 36,000 students—with 78% qualifying for free or reduced lunch because of economic disadvantage.
The funding crisis stems from Florida's Education Finance Program, which allocates state money based on enrollment—what Leonard calls "cheeks
in seats." Fewer students directly translates to significantly less funding from Tallahassee, even as operational costs continue rising.
Leonard maintains the district is being both responsible and transparent, noting that 60 of Florida's 67 school districts already levy the same 1.5-mill capital outlay rate. Even with the increase, Escambia County's total millage rate remains below neighboring counties to the east.
The additional revenue will fund essential infrastructure improvements, including new auditoriums at Escambia High School and classroom retrofitting projects. Leonard emphasized the need to stay competitive with both neighboring public districts and private schools in retaining qualified teachers and maintaining facilities.
Despite the political controversy, Leonard views the 5.359-mill total as "a great investment for Escambia County as a whole," necessary to maintain educational quality amid challenging financial circumstances.
SECRET MEETINGS University of
West Florida Board Chair Rebecca Matthews convened a meeting with attorneys from Gov. Ron DeSantis' favored law firm and representatives from a prominent presidential search firm Aug. 1—less than 48 hours after Interim President Manny Diaz dismissed the university's general counsel.
Public records obtained by Inweekly reveal that Matthews coordinated the July 30 meeting with Lawson Huck Gonzalez, a Tallahassee-based firm formed in 2023, and Dallas-based Funk Associates, a higher education executive search firm. The timing of the meeting raises questions about potential policy violations and procedural conflicts.
The calendar event was created at 10:54 a.m. July 30, notably before UWF General Counsel Susan Woolf sent her 12:05 p.m. memo to the Board of Trustees, alerting them to conflicts involving Matthews and requesting a board meeting to vote on the matter. The sequence suggests Matthews may have violated UWF Policy GC-03 regarding outside counsel retention.
According to UWF records, the meeting included Willie Funk, managing vice president of Funk Associates, and his chief of staff, Krisha Creal. Lawson Huck Gonzalez was represented by co-founder Jason Gonzalez and attorneys Eric Reed and Taylor Greene. UWF participants included Associate VP of Human Resources Jamie Sprague, Chief Communications Officer Brittany Sherwood, Procurement and Contracts Director Cass Boatwright, and Equal Opportunity Coordinator Candace Freeman.
State Rep. Alex Andrade characterized Lawson Huck Gonzalez as one of "only a handful of firms the Governor's office favors," noting they have "recently been getting millions of dollars in contracts from the Governor's office." Retired Florida Supreme Court Justice Alan Lawson and Jason Gonzalez, former general counsel to Gov. DeSantis, established the firm.
The firm has defended key DeSantis administration policies, including regulatory changes during the Disney disputes and representing university boards in litigation over DEI restrictions. Lawson notably published an article in April 2025 defending the administration's controversial Hope Florida funding scheme.
Photo Courtesy of myescambia.com
Funk Associates specializes in higher education leadership recruitment, having completed more than 400 presidential and chancellor searches. The firm recently concluded searches for Florida International University, Coastal Carolina University and the University of St. Thomas-Houston.
The involvement of both firms suggests potential preparation for a presidential search process. However, the secretive nature and timing of the meeting amid the general counsel dispute raise transparency concerns about UWF's governance practices.
REDEVELOPING MYRTLE GROVE
Escambia County is embarking on an ambitious transformation of Myrtle Grove, a community facing significant economic and infrastructure challenges that prompted its designation as a blighted area in February when the Escambia County Commission made Myrtle Grove its newest Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) District.
The comprehensive redevelopment plan addresses a stark reality: nearly one in five homes is in poor condition, median household income sits 26% below the county average at $45,517 and the area experiences disproportionately high property crime rates despite representing only 2.65% of the county's population.
The 30-year CRA plan centers on 10 core objectives spanning physical improvements, community building and economic development. Infrastructure modernization takes priority, as only half the community currently has public sewer access, forcing many residents to rely on aging septic systems. The incomplete sidewalk network, particularly south of West Jackson Street, creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians trying to access schools, parks and commercial areas.
The capital improvement program focuses on addressing chronic flooding through eight major drainage projects, including Royal Pines subdivision flood control and Elsa Area improvements.
The plan calls for the creation of safe pedestrian connections along critical corridors like North 57th Avenue and West Jackson Street. These improvements would support the "Reimagine Jackson Street" vision, featuring reduced speeds, mini-roundabouts and protected bike lanes.
Community assets could get substantial upgrades with an $8.5 million replacement fire station and a $7 million library branch, potentially located at the former YMCA site. The plan also emphasizes commercial revitalization, particularly targeting the blighted block bounded by New Warrington Spur and Lillian Highway.
The CRA will coordinate implementation through multiple funding streams, including tax increment financing, local option sales tax, federal grants and private partnerships. By leveraging increased property tax revenue from improvements and encouraging private investment through grants and incentives, the plan aims to break the cycle of disinvestment while preserving the residential character of Myrtle Grove's 29 distinct neighborhoods.
MEDICAL PARTNERSHIP Florida State University's (FSU's) College of Medicine announced a strategic partnership with the Andrews Re -
search & Education Foundation that took effect Aug.1, significantly expanding advanced medical training opportunities in Northwest Florida.
Under the new collaboration, FSU has assumed sponsorship of two prestigious fellowship programs previously operated independently by the Andrews Institute: the Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Fellowship, which accepts four fellows annually and the Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship, offering one position. Both programs maintain their coveted Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accreditation.
"This partnership reflects the strong collaborations we are building that expand educational opportunity, support world-class research and improve the health of communities across our state," said Richard McCullough, the FSU president.
The partnership brings FSU's total sponsored programs to 26, training more than 330 residents and fellows. Dr. Alma Littles, dean of the College of Medicine, said, "For nearly two decades, the Andrews Institute has provided unparalleled care to the residents of Northwest Florida and beyond."
According to Andrews Research & Education Foundation President Ashton Hayward, the collaboration will "foster groundbreaking work in musculoskeletal science, regenerative medicine, biomechanics and surgical innovation."
For patients in Northwest Florida, this means access to care from highly trained fellows. For the medical community, it represents new opportunities for research collaboration and knowledge sharing.
BEST EMPLOYERS Two
Pensacola-based companies, Catalyst Healthcare Real Estate and Clark Partington Attorneys at Law, have earned spots among Florida's "Best Companies to Work For" for the fourth consecutive year.
The annual ranking, featured in Florida Trend's August issue, recognizes 100 companies across small, medium and large employer categories. To qualify, companies must employ at least 15 workers in Florida and operate for a minimum of one year. The selection process involves rigorous evaluation of workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics, combined with employee satisfaction surveys that determine final rankings.
"The best companies invest in people and find creative ways to motivate and reward employees and help them grow," explained Amy Keller, the Florida trend executive editor. "They're also purposeful about creating a great culture while prioritizing community engagement."
Catalyst Healthcare Real Estate, a national healthcare real estate development and investment firm, focuses on strategic healthcare investments. "This recognition highlights the intentional culture we've built," said Alex Stacy, the president and COO, crediting their team's dedication and passion.
Clark Partington, a Gulf Coast regional law firm with offices in Pensacola, Destin, Santa Rosa Beach and Tallahassee, attributes its success to dedicated attorneys and staff whose professionalism and integrity maintain the firm's leadership position in both legal excellence and workplace culture. {in}
STAMPED FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS
Find stories about queer joy, resistance and resilience at Stamped, Pensacola's one and only LGBTQ+ film festival entering its 11th year this weekend.
As usual, the festival's schedule includes short and feature length films, including documentaries and screenplays highlighting the LGBTQ+ experience, plus Q&As, workshops and more.
Whether you're a member of the community or an ally, young or old, there's a film for everyone. Maybe it's an all-ages documentary like "Mom, I Have Something To Tell You," or the British animated short film "Dragfox," or maybe even an after-dark feature like "Demon Twink." Really, we suggest you plan to see them all.
Stamped president Laynie Gibson is most excited this year for the quality of films the festival has curated.
"Over the course of Stamped as a whole we've seen the quality of the film that we're showing really go up," Gibson said. "We've worked really hard to become reputable as a festival."
One of the ways Stamped has gained such a strong reputation is by supporting the filmmakers beyond just screening their works.
"We've had people from all over parts of the industry come and attend the festival, and feedback that we consistently get from them is that it's one of the most welcoming film festivals that they've attended," Gibson said. "The sense of community is so overwhelming compared to other festivals, and I think that's part of the core of who we are."
"I think we're more than a film festival. I think we are a place for community building and making those connections," Gibson said.
To build on this theme of self-improvement, Stamped has brought on a programmer from the film industry, whose role is to solicit titles from promising films around the country and world. That's how Stamped snagged an award-winning film about a hot topic.
"One of those titles that we have this year is 'The Librarians,' which just premiered at
By Sydney Robinson
Sundance from an Academy Award-winning director, and it's about book banning, which is obviously really relevant to Escambia County and all the things that we're experiencing as a community," Gibson said.
Stamped has made Sunday their family day since 2019. This all-ages day focuses on providing fun content for children and teens, plus educational content for parents.
"It was born out of an ask from the community, like a direct ask in the years prior to that was 'Is this something I can bring my kids to?'" Gibson said. While films about LGBTQ+ identities are never something to be age-limited, Stamped is open to films of all types, some that are not suitable for younger individuals.
It's this element of the festival, the family focus, that has drawn some criticism from religious extremist groups.
"We have consistently had, for the last three years, protesters out at family day. They only come to family day," Gibson said.
Luckily, the supportive atmosphere of Stamped drowns out the criticism.
"If they're standing across the street expressing their disapproval, we wind up with a lot of adults and parents and people who are invested in protecting the experience of these kids standing under the awning at our venue having a dance party and playing music really loud, and letting [young people] know that no matter what is happening across the street, you are welcome and you want to be a part of what is happening in here."
In addition to the films, festival attendees can attend writer and actor Q&As and an archiving workshop from Invisible Histories—a regional organization focused on documenting and preserving LGBTQ+ history.
"They will be presenting on how to archive, as well as just talking about their programs and the importance of preserving our history and doing what we can as individuals to participate in archiving."
Stamped will also be hosting an intergenerational roundtable discussion.
"Members of the queer community who hold various intersecting identities will have a discussion about what it is like to be 18 and a member of the LGBT community right now in 2025, and what is it like to be 80 and a member of the community here in 2025? What are the things that we can learn from each other?" Gibson said.
RUN IT BACK
One of many filmmakers that will be at this year's festival is Stuart Sox, who's returning to Stamped for the second time with his documentary "I Love You, AllWays."
"We've had a really great festival run so far, and I'm just really, really pumped to be sharing it at Stamped, because they've been really supportive of my work over the years," Sox said.
"I Love You, AllWays" documents a colorful cast of drag queens and entertainers in New Orleans.
"It's a film that celebrates this community and highlights their resilience in the face of adversity from all sides," Sox said. "It's about AllWays Lounge in New Orleans, which is a very wellknown drag and cabaret bar and venue. It's kind of like the center of queer performance and nightlife, and it's just a really great space for queer artists to thrive and find community."
Sox documented how Allways Lounge navigated the nightlife scene during COVID, finding creative ways to make art and a living while protecting their community.
"When the pandemic started, seeing this whole community just kind of shattered by the loss of their art form, the loss of their livelihood, the loss of how some people connect to themselves and the world around them. If I somehow were not able to make films, I don't know how I would deal with that," Sox said.
Sox is a testament to the festival's status not only as a successful film festival, but also an incubator for regional talent. In 2021, he came to the
festival for the first time to screen "To Decadence with Love, Thanks for Everything!"
"I would say maybe it was my favorite screening, apart from our home screening in New Orleans, just because I felt so welcomed," Sox said. "Stamped, in terms of film festivals, in general is pretty young, but they do an incredible job. It's a great, great festival experience."
Sox is also in awe of Stamped's mission to make the festival free of charge to all.
"That is also very rare, because film festivals are generally not big money makers. Most of them are nonprofits, and charging ticket prices is how they often make the bulk of their money. So whoever is funding Stamped, whoever their donors are, please don't stop [because] the work that they're doing is important and is changing lives."
This year, more than ever, filmmakers like Sox are grateful for an LGBTQ+-focused festival in the South.
"I really believe in what Stamped is doing," Sox said. "Four years ago, the rights of queer people and trans people were not under the under attack in the same way that they are now, and so especially in the South, it's insanely important to have an organization like Stamped that works so hard to uplift queer artists and share queer stories."
"You just never know who might come across some Stamped programming, and it could change their life," Sox said. {in}
STAMPED FILM FESTIVAL
WHAT: A multi-day event highlighting LGBTQ+ films and filmmakers
WHEN: Friday, Aug. 15-Sunday, Aug. 17
WHERE: The Clark Family Cultural Center, 400 S. Jefferson St.
COST: Free, but advance registration is encouraged
DETAILS: stampedfilmfest.com
Image from "I Love You, AllWays"
Photo Courtesy of Stamped
Arts & Entertainment
Drink Irresponsibly
Michael Daw and Michael Newman have a message you don't hear often—drink irresponsibly.
To be clear, though, that message specifically applies to their new brand of nonalcoholic (NA) mixed drink-flavored craft sodas: No Spirit. The pair of Michaels are describing the beverages that way, because the term "mocktail" doesn't fit the vibe of a Cowboy Cola, their non-alcoholic take on a two-ingredient whiskey and Coke.
"These do a pretty good job of tricking your brain," Daw said. "When we were doing a tastetesting forum, I remember leaving the warehouse and my first thought was, 'Should I get an Uber? Oh, wait, I'm not drunk at all. I've been drinking fake alcohol' … We've joked about using that in the marketing and being like, 'You're drinking when driving, and it's like, 'No, you have no proof, because it's no-proof alcohol."
The friends launched the NA line because they've always wanted to collaborate—and as the production manager for Big Jerk Soda Co., Newman's only stipulation was that whatever project they chose had to be carbonated and canned. With Newman's soda experience, Daw's marketing and graphic design background and the absence of any spirit, it just made sense.
"We were both taking a break from drinking and looking at what was out there in the NA market—and they have near beers, a lot of fruity cocktail or mocktail drinks and seltzer waters that
are nonalcoholic—which, to me, is just a seltzer water," Daw said. "So we saw a little opening."
While the NA industry is growing (and fast), Daw sees literal and metaphorical room on the shelf for their niche of liquor and mixer combos.
"I wanted to start with a nonalcoholic version of my favorite mixed drink, which is a whiskey cola," Daw said. "We want it to be strong enough that it feels like you're drinking an alcoholic beverage, but we don't want it to be so strong that somebody who just enjoys a good, flavored craft soda can't enjoy it as well."
With No Spirit's Cowboy Cola came another bar staple—the Carribbean Cola, a rum and Coke. Daw is surprised his personal favorite has shifted to the latter.
"I was never really a rum guy but I think as a craft soda, the caramel from the rum, it kind of hits," Daw said.
They've decided to release their flavors in pairs; next up is the Grandma Tonic (aka gin and tonic) and Pop Pop Pop (aka seven and seven).
"People think of it as a grandpa's drink, because a lot of people's grandpas drink it, but it's like 7UP and whiskey," Daw said.
More flavors are still to come; they have big plans to take the brand nationwide and see it in bars, liquor stores, breweries and the like. But Daw admits he used to be anti-NA.
"I didn't get the point," Daw said. "I was like, 'Hey, if I'm not gonna get the buzz from it, why am
I gonna intake the calories?' But after a while, I started to like the idea; it kind of tricks your brain into thinking there's not anything missing. You're still socializing. You have a can in your hand, and it looks fun. It looks like you're drinking a nice craft beer or something."
Daw recognizes a variety of reasons behind the NA trend—from Gen Z watching millennials binge drink a little longer into adulthood than they should've to alcoholism. But they had us at "no hangover."
"It does kind of suck when you can't drink, but there's also a lot when you stop drinking that you realize becomes better," Daw said. "Like, 'Yeah, I didn't have a ton of fun last night, but I also didn't throw up this morning. I also don't have a hangover. I can wake up and go on a run.' A lot of it was inspired by that. It was like, 'All right, so we can talk about the things that you can do when you're not drinking—that is actually kind of awesome.'"
Daw is running wild with the branding, doing things that, frankly, alcohol companies can't. And with the brand being half his, he's enjoying taking risks he normally couldn't for a client.
"It's really frowned on for beer companies to use a cartoon mascot, because then it's seen as marketing toward kids," Daw said. "Every piece of marketing for an alcoholic beverage has to say, 'Drink responsibly,' on it, so we threw 'Drink irresponsibly,' as our tagline and [have] coasters that say 'Drink and drive with No Spirit.'"
Their cartoon is a multi-faceted ghost that appears on their cans doing everything from riding a horse to enjoying a tropical vacation. They plan to host a contest to name him.
"Our little hobo ghost—he has no job, because there is no spirit," Daw said.
The name No Spirit and their borderline apathetic messaging is partially inspired by OK Soda, a discontinued soft drink with slogans like "What's the point of OK? Well, what's the point of anything?"
And if it isn't crystal clear yet, there's truly zero spirit. Zilch.
"There are a lot of people who don't want to have any alcohol whatsoever, not one drop, so they can't drink things like non-alcoholic beer," Daw said. "So what we have is great, because there is no alcohol. We didn't put in alcohol to take it away; it's all just done with flavoring."
But it's not exactly health focused either, he added.
"When I take breaks from drinking, the thing I notice is I get a crazy sweet tooth," Daw said. "I want sugary things, so it kills two birds with one stone to me: I get to have a drink I can carry around that tastes like I'm drinking an alcoholic beverage, and it gets to satisfy that sugar craving." {in}
drinknospirit.com @drink.no.spirit
Michael Daw and Michael Newman / Photos by Blake Jones Photography
a&e happenings
NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS
WHEN THE STARS ALIGN: A NIGHT OF RESILIENCE AND REAL IMPACT Show support for Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE) at the Storms & Stars Soiree on Saturday, Aug. 23 at the Pensacola Country Club, 1500 Bayshore Drive. The keynote speaker will be Captain Chandra Newman, the first female Commanding Officer of NAS Pensacola. Details and tickets are at bereadyalliance.org.
PUPS OF PENSACOLA CALENDAR CON -
TEST WolfGang Pensacola, LLC, in partnership with Hoff House Pet Photography, is happy to announce the return of its calendar fundraiser. Proceeds, after costs and fees, from the contest raise funds for the Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare. Submit a photo of your dog for $15 (limit of two dogs per photo). Every dollar donated equals one vote. The contest runs through Sept. 6. For details, visit gogophotocontest.com/wolfgangpensacola.
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR YMCA'S ANNUAL CORPORATE CUP GAMES
The YMCA invites companies to enter this year's Corporate Cup Games, to be held Saturday, Oct. 25, at Pensacola State College. Teams must consist of 20-28 members who are at least 18 years old and regular employees of the company. Employee spouses may participate. For a $1,000 entry fee, your team receives event entry, food and drink, a participant gift for each team member and a chance to win awards and bragging rights. Silver Sponsorships are also available. Proceeds benefit YMCA mission programs. Registration deadline is Aug. 15. Learn more and register at ymcanwfl.org.
ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Ani -
mal Allies Florida hosts bingo twice monthly at Beef 'O' Brady's, 1 New Market St., Cantonment (on Nine Mile Road near Pine Forest Road). The cost is 10 rounds of bingo for $10, with cash prizes for winners. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. For more information, visit facebook.com/animalalliesflorida.
ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN
ADOPTION Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.
CARING & SHARING MINISTRY FOOD
DRIVE The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens 10 a.m. and also has clothing. Food donations needed are pop-top canned goods, Beanie Weenies, Vienna sausage, potted meat, cans of tuna and chicken and soups. Clothing donations needed include tennis shoes for men and women, as well as sweatshirts and new underwear for men in sizes small, medium and large. Call DeeDee Green at (850) 723-3390 for details.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
WSRE OPEN HOUSE As part of its August pledge drive, WSRE-PBS will host an open house 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at the station,
1000 College Blvd. This free event will include production studio tours and PBS KIDS activities for children, including meet-and-greets with Clifford the Big Red Dog. Station supporters are encouraged to share their own WSRE stories by submitting video or written testimonials about why they support public television at wsre.org/value.
CALL TO ARTISTS
2025 PIECES ADRIFT Keep Pensacola Beautiful is accepting submissions from artists for the Pieces Adrift Art Show & Auction. The goal of this event is to highlight works of art produced with reused or recycled items. You don't have to be an established artist to participate. All skill levels are welcome. The event is Saturday, Oct. 25. Planning is underway. This year, we will provide awards for different age categories created by an artist from Gulf Shores who makes art out of reused materials. If you're interested in serving on the committee, please email Vanesa at volunteer@keeppensacolabeautiful.org. If you would like to submit a piece of artwork for the upcoming show, fill out the form at form.jotform.com/251134246638153.
ARTS & CULTURE
STAMPED FILM FESTIVAL The Stamped LGBTQ Film Festival is Aug. 15-17 at The Clark Family Cultural Center, 400 S. Jefferson St. Admission is free. Get tickets and information at stampedfilmfest.com.
GALLERY NIGHT: RETRO RIDES & ART VIBES The next Gallery Night is 5-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 on South Palafox. Check out more than 70 art vendors, live performers and more. Details are at gallerynightpensacola.org.
AN EVENING OF ART & PHOTOGRAPHY
This event featuring photographer Sean Mullins and artist Cindy Mathis with live music from Ben Loftin is 6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at The Brent Lofts, 17 S. Palafox St. Details are at facebook.com/thebrentlofts.
LAGUNA'S MOVIE NIGHT: 'LILO & STITCH'
Laguna's will show the live action "Lilo & Stitch" movie 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 on the Tiki deck at 460 Pensacola Beach Blvd. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome. Movie snacks will be available for purchase.
OPEN HOUSE WITH BVLBANCHA LIBERATION RADIO & WPNX DISCOTECH Join Bvlbancha Liberation Radio for an evening of radical media, resistance and real-world solutions to disaster communication and cultural preservation. This dynamic event features two short films exploring the power of off-grid and community-run radio networks. This event also marks the public introduction of WPNX, a local low power FM (LPFM) project. After the screenings, enjoy a brief community conversation about their upcoming launch and how you can get involved in shaping independent media in Pensacola. Event is 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at 309 N. Sixth Ave. Details are at facebook.com/309punkproject.
HOUSE OF ANDROGYNY OPEN STAGE
DRAG SHOW Show is 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St, for ages 18 and older. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
SHREK RAVE Event is 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details are at vinylmusichall.com.
DRAW TOGETHER DRAWING CLUB Club starts 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. This is a free event that is open to all ages and skill levels—supplies provided.
BROADWAY IN PENSACOLA OPEN HOUSE PARTY Broadway in Pensacola will host an open house party with a glimpse into the upcoming 2025–2026 Broadway season. Guests will enjoy complimentary drinks and light bites, take backstage tours of the theater and preview the best available seating before finalizing their season subscription selections. The 2025-2026 season includes: A Christmas Story: The Musical on Dec. 2–3, Meredith Willson's the Music Man on Feb. 4–5, 2026, Mrs. Doubtfire on April 7–8, 2026 and Beetlejuice on June 16–17, 2026. The open house is 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21 and free to attend.
STAND-UP COMEDY HOSTED BY RYAN PFEIFFER, FEATURING LENA IBRAHIM, ARUN KRISHNAN AND CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS Show starts 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
BLOW YOUR OWN PUMPKIN WITH MUFFINJAW DESIGNS Muffinjaw Designs will be back at Gary's Brewery for their annual Blow Your Own Pumpkin event Friday, Aug. 22 and Saturday, Aug. 23 at 208 Newman Ave. Tickets start at $70 and can be purchased at muffinjaw-design.square.site.
SUCCULENT WREATH CLASS WITH JADE TREE SUCCULENTS Class is 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
RITUAL 6: GOTH/INDUSTRIAL DANCE PARTY Starts at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
IT'S A 2000S PARTY: PENSACOLA Event is 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets are at vinylmusichall.com.
INFERNO BURLESQUE Show is 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets at vinylmusichall.com.
CHILDREN'S BOOK FAIR Visit Open Books, 1040 N. Guillemard St., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23 and shop $1 books for all grade levels. Details are at facebook.com/openbooksbookstore.
WORKSHOP ON SPOKEN WORD POETRY WITH ASIA SAMSON, NWFL POET LAUREATE Emerald Coast Writers presents a free workshop and performance with Northwest Florida Poet Laureate Asia Samson 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23 at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. The workshop is free. Details and tickets are on eventbrite.com.
happenings
PENSACOLA OPERA AUDITIONS Join the Pensacola Opera chorus, a group of enthusiastic volunteer performers. Auditions are Tuesday, Aug. 26 at the Opera Center, 75 S. Tarragona St. Learn more and register at pensacolaopera.com.
RACHEL PONGETTI: UNEXPECTED ANALOG DREAM Rachel Pongetti, the author of the "Pensacola Graffiti Bridge Project," will have an exhibit on view through Aug. 31 at Open Books, 1040 N. Guillemard St.
BLUE MORNING GALLERY EXHIBITS The Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox St., is currently exhibiting "Secrets or Confessions" until Aug. 22 and features "Close to Home" by Gila Rayberg; "It's Showtime Folks" by Wanda Azzario-Goldberg; "The Art of Tray" by Tara Ray and "Best of Show Winner" by Ruby Morris. For future exhibit schedules, go to artelgallery.org.
IN YOUR FACE: PORTRAITS BY GILA RAYBERG Mosaic portraiture by Gila Rayberg is on view through Sept. 7 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
GESTALT OF THE BERTH The latest exhibit at Pensacola Museum of Art is Gestalt of the Berth, a culmination of the inaugural Artist-in-Residence program at Gulf Islands National Seashore. Selected artist, designer and educator John Dougherty was tasked with forging a stronger connection between the local arts community and the park, and he saw collaboration as the most effective approach. The show features the work of John Dougherty and includes participating artists Nicholas Croghan, Poppy Garcia, Stoycho Hadziev, Joe Hobbs, Richard Humphries, Steve Matechik, Mia McCann, Keeley Morgan, Paul Myers, Nick Phoenix, Richard Rodriguez and Eniko Ujj. More details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
DUALITIES: NATIONAL SCULPTURE EXHIBITION This national exhibition will feature works from various artists at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. The exhibition is on view through Jan. 11. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
PENSACOLA ROSE SOCIETY Monthly meetings are normally 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Pensacola Garden Center, 1850 N. Ninth Ave. Visit pensacolarosesociety.org for more information.
BTB COMEDY Watch live standup comedy in open mic style 7 p.m. Mondays at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Follow BTB Comedy on Facebook for updates.
COMEDY SHOWCASE AT SUBCULTURE
BTB Comedy presents a comedy showcase the first Thursday monthly at Subculture Art Gallery, 701 N. V St. Follow facebook.com/pensacolasubculture for updates.
SCRIPTEASERS Join writers at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St., for Scripteasers every month. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for details.
PALAFOX MARKET Enjoy Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. The event features local farmers, artists and crafters on North and South Palafox streets at Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza and Plaza Ferdinand. For updates, visit facebook.com/ downtownpensacola.
CABARET DRAG SHOWCASE AT AMERICAN LEGION POST #193 Don't miss Cabaret Drag Showcase every second and fourth Saturday at the American Legion Post #193, 2708 N. 12th Ave. Doors open 8 p.m. Showtime is 10 p.m. For more information, contact show director Taize Sinclair-Santi at taizesinclairsanti@gmail.com.
SPIRITS OF SEVILLE QUARTER GHOST TOUR AND LUNCHEON Dine inside Pensacola's oldest and most haunted restaurant and investigate the spirits with actual paranormal equipment at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Tickets are $12 and include a voucher toward Seville Quarter's menu. Tours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. Sundays. Make an appointment by calling (850) 941-4321.
AFTER DARK: SEVILLE QUARTER GHOSTS, MURDER, MAYHEM AND MYSTERY TOUR AND DINNER After Dark Paranormal Investigation and Dinner happens inside one of Pensacola's most haunted restaurants with real ghost-hunting equipment 6-8 p.m. Sundays. Listen as your guide weaves tales of ghosts, debauchery, murder, mayhem, paranormal activities, history and more related to Seville Quarter and downtown Historic Pensacola. After your ghost tour, enjoy dinner at Seville Quarter Palace Café, 130 E. Government St. Reservations are required. Call (850) 941-4321. Tickets are available at pensacolaghostevents.com.
FOOD + DRINKS
GARDEN GATHERING AT GARY'S Speed mingle for plant enthusiasts is 6:15-8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. Tickets start at $14.62. Details are at facebook.com/garysbrew.
GREAT SOUTHERN RESTAURANT WEEK
Visit Great Southern Restaurants, including The Fish House, Atlas Oyster House, Jackson's Steakhouse, Five Sisters Blues Café and Angelena's Italian Ristorante during the Summer Restaurant Week through Aug. 17 with threecourse options for $33 at each restaurant starting 5 p.m. nightly. Details are at greatsouthernrestaurants.com.
COOKING WITH CHEF IRV MILLER: A TASTE OF TRADITION Cooking class with Chef Irv Miller of Jackson's Steakhouse. Times are 5 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20. Cost is $55 a person, which includes the demonstration, tasting and wine pairings, and a recipe booklet to take home. Classes are held at 400 S. Palafox St. Sign up by emailing marthaanne@goodgrits.com or calling (850) 777-0412.
WINE AND DINE: A WINE AND FOOD
PAIRING EVENT Event is 5:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $88 and can purchased on Eventbrite.
a&e happenings
PARLEAUX BEER LAB MINI TAP TAKE -
OVER Tap takeover at Odd Colony is 5-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at 260 N. Palafox St. Limited quantities are available. Information is at facebook.com/oddcolony.
FLOUR POWER SERIES: A GLUTEN FREE
BOOTCAMP Cooking class is 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Unit. C. Cost is $250 per student, with payment plans available (includes five four-hour sessions). Sign up at pensacolacooks.com/cooking-classes.
O'RILEY'S BARTENDER CHAMPIONSHIP
O'Riley's Irish Pub will host its eighth annual Bartender Championship 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24 at O'Riley's, 321 S. Palafox St. Each bartender will make a unique cocktail with a special ingredient. Tickets for attendees are $25 and include samples of cocktails prepared by the bartenders and sponsors. Tickets can be purchased on orileyspub.com.
PALATE PASSPORT SERIES Cooking class is 6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Avenue, Unit C. Cost is $250 per student with payment plans available (includes five two-hour sessions). Sign up at pensacolacooks.com/classes-and-events
LUNCH SERVICE AT RESTAURANT IRON
Restaurant Iron, 22 N. Palafox St., now offers a refined midday experience starting 11 a.m. MondayFriday. Dinner service will continue to be available
Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (850) 4767776 or visiting restaurantiron.com/reservations. Walk-ins will also be welcome based on availability.
LUNCH & DINNER AT SEVILLE QUARTER
Enjoy a good meal and atmosphere with lunch and dinner at Seville Quarter. At 11 a.m. in Apple Annie's Courtyard, have the soup and salad bar, featuring more than 30 fresh selections, along with a delicious variety of sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, wings and local Gulf seafood favorites. Beginning at 5 p.m. dinner is served in the historic Palace Café, where the culinary team brings creative, flavorful dishes to the table, blending Southern comfort, local ingredients and Seville Quarter flair. Details are at sevillequarter.com.
DOWNTOWN HAPPY HOUR AT SEVILLE
QUARTER Drink specials and laid-back vibes are 1 a.m.-7 p.m. every weekday from throughout the entire Seville Quarter complex with $2 off all liquor drinks and $1 off all beer and wine. Must be 21 and older. Visit sevillequarter.com for details.
MEN'S NIGHT AT WISTERIA From 3 p.m. to close Mondays, guys can play free darts and enjoy $6 craft tallboys. There are more than 150 craft beers to choose from at Wisteria, 3803 N. 12th Ave. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
BAR BINGO AT SEVILLE QUARTER Bar Bingo is 8 p.m. every Monday at Apple Annie's at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Drink specials
include $2.50 Miller Lite bottles and $3.50 Bomb shots. Bingo is free to play with prizes, giveaways and bar tabs up for grabs for winners. Visit sevillequarter.com for details.
FIGHTER GAME NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Gamers unite 5 p.m.-close Mondays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
BINGO NIGHT AT CALVERT'S IN THE HEIGHTS Play a game (or two) of bingo 6-8 p.m. Mondays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Hwy. For more information, visit calvertsintheheights.com.
DOUBLE MONDAYS AND SIN NIGHT Enjoy
Double Mondays 8 p.m.-midnight and SIN Night 11 p.m. to close at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details are at orileystavern.com.
MARTINI NIGHT AT THE KENNEDY Every Tuesday, The Kennedy, 1 S. Palafox St., hosts Martini Night, featuring all martinis from the menu for $10 from open to close (4-11 p.m.).
75-CENT OYSTERS AT ATLAS Enjoy 75-cent oysters 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. For more information, visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com.
MUSIC BINGO Test your music knowledge 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Wisteria, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Take part in half-price bottles of wine and $5 canned cocktails. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
POKER NIGHT AND BINGO AT O'RILEY'S Visit O'Riley's Irish Pub for poker at 6:30 p.m. and bar bingo 8-10 p.m. Tacos are on special Tuesdays at 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
LUNCH AT THE DISTRICT The District Steakhouse, 130 E. Government St., is open for special lunch seatings the third Friday of the month. Enjoy a $5 martini or house wine. Seatings are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Reservations are accepted but not necessary. Details are available at districtsteaks.com.
DOLLAR NIGHT Enjoy Dollar Night 8 p.m.midnight Tuesdays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Hwy. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
TUESDAY TRIVIA AT PERFECT PLAIN Visit Perfect Plain Brewing Co. for trivia nights 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 50 E. Garden St. Visit perfectplain.com/upcoming-events for details.
DOLLAR NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Dollar Night is 8 p.m.-midnight Wednesdays at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Food trucks are on site. Details are at orileystavern.com.
TRIVIA AT O'RILEY'S Test your trivia knowledge 8-10 p.m. Wednesdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
for more listings visit inweekly.net
free will astrology
WEEK OF AUGUST 14
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Rama is the star of the ancient Hindu epic story, "Ramayana." I love him! He's one of my favorite legends. His heroic journey isn't fueled by a greed for power or personal glory. Unlike 90% of modern action heroes, he's not pumped up with anger or a lust for vengeance. Instead, he is animated by a sense of sacred duty. Against all odds, and in the face of bad behavior by weird adversaries, he acts with exemplary integrity and calm clarity. During your upcoming exploits, Aries, I invite you to be inspired by his exalted and unwavering determination. As you proceed, ask yourself, "Is this in rigorous service to my beautiful ideals? Are my decisions and words in alignment with my deepest truths?" Be motivated by devotion as much as by hunger. Aim not just for novelty and excitement, but for generosity of spirit.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): In the Mexican festival of La Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes), giant radishes are carved into elaborate altars and scenes. Humble roots become fancy art. I think you're engaged in a metaphorically similar process, Taurus: sculpting with uncommon materials. Something you've regarded as modest—a small breakthrough or overlooked strength—is revealing unexpected value. Or perhaps a previously latent or indiscernible asset is showing you its neglected magic. Celebrate your subtle but tangible luck. Take full advantage of half-disguised treasures.
By Rob Brezsny
maturity, but not through pushy effort. Rather, trust life to bring you the precise guidance exactly when you need it.
CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): In ancient Rome, the priestesses known as the Vestal Virgins tended an eternal flame. They never let it be extinguished, not even for a moment. Their devoted focus on nurturing the fire was both a religious practice and symbol regarded as essential for the well-being, prosperity and survival of the Roman state. I propose, Cancerian, that you engage in your own version of Vestal Virgin-like watchfulness. Assign yourself the role of being the keeper of a sacred promise or resource. What is it, exactly? Identify this repository of spiritual wealth and dedicate yourself to its sustenance.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): In medieval Europe, pilgrims traveling to the shrine of St. James in Spain often wore scallop shells. These were badges to signify they were on a sacred path in quest of divinely inspired transformation. The shell also had practical uses. It was a scoop for food and water, underscoring the humility and simplicity embraced by wayfarers on the road. I invite you to acquire and wear your own equivalent of this talisman, Leo. You have begun a new chapter in your self-perception, and life is asking you to proceed without pretense. You don't need definite answers. You don't have to rush to the end of the journey. The becoming is the point. I hope you seek out inspirational symbolism and generous companions to help nurture your brave transformations. P.S. Your best conversations may be with people who will lovingly witness your evolution.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): In coastal Portugal, there's a lighthouse called Farol do Cabo da Roca. Built on a cliff where land ends and the Atlantic Ocean begins, it marks the westernmost edge of continental Europe. We might say it's a threshold between the known and unknown. I believe you will soon be poised at a metaphorically similar place, Libra. An ending is at hand. It's not catastrophic, but it is conclusive. And just beyond it are shimmers, questions and a horizon that's not fully visible. Your job is to finish your good work, even as you periodically gaze into the distance to see what's looming.
Domus de Janas, or houses of the fairies. People once left offerings there to court the help of beings they couldn't see. They truly believe fairies are real and can exert effects in this world. In modern times, fewer Capricorns actively consort with invisible presences than any other zodiac sign. But I hope you will take a short break from your usual stance. Mysterious and mythic influences are gathering in your vicinity. You're being nudged by forces that defy explanation. What do you have to lose? Why not have fun making room to be delighted and surprised by miracles and wonders?
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): In Zen archery, the aim is not simply to hit the target. Instead, it's to align one's body, breath, mind and bow so fully that the arrow releases itself naturally and effortlessly. It shoots itself! I would love for you to adopt this breezy attitude in the weeks ahead, Gemini. See if you can allow an evolving project, relationship or vision to reach a new
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): In ancient Greek drama, the "peripeteia" was a term for the moment when everything turns. The pivot doesn't happen through force, but through the revelation of what was always true. I see the coming weeks as your peripeteia, Virgo. There might be no fireworks or grand announcements—just a soft spiraling crackle that signifies a realignment of the system, a cathartic shift of emphases. Confusion resolves. Mysteries solve themselves. You might say, "Oh, yes, now I see: That's what it all meant." Then you can glide into the future with a refined and more well-informed set of intentions.
SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): I invite you to channel the spirit of Kali—not in her form as the destroyer, but as the fierce liberator. She has the power to burn away stagnation, neutralize the poison of old lies, and slice through illusion with a sword of compassion—and so do you. I believe you are ready to sever a bond that has secretly (or maybe not-so-secretly) limited you. Don't be afraid of the emptiness that results. It may appear to be a void, but it will quickly evolve into a fresh sanctuary. Into this newly cleared room, you can pour your strongest longings and most rebellious love. What are the wildest versions of your truths?
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): In some early maps of the cosmos, Sagittarius wasn't just an archer. Your sign was symbolized by a centaur with wings: part horse, part bird and part god. I bring this to your attention because I suspect your own hybrid nature is extra wild and strong these days. A part of you wants to roam, and a part wants to ruminate. A part wants to teach, and a part needs to learn. How should you respond to the glorious paradox? I say, don't force harmony. Let contradiction become choreography. Maybe liberating joy can arise through a dance between apparent opposites.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): In Sardinia, there are tombs carved into rock called
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): Thou shalt embrace the confounding contradictions, Aquarius. That's the first commandment. Here's the second commandment: Thou shalt caress the tricky incongruities. Third: Thou shalt whisper endearments to the mysterious ambiguities and invite the mysterious ambiguities to whisper endearments to you. Fourth: Thou shalt rumble and cavort with the slippery paradoxes. Commandment number five: Thou shalt chant spicy prayers of gratitude to the incongruities, paradoxes, contradictions and ambiguities that are making you deeper and wiser and cuter.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): In early medieval gardens, there was sometimes a space called the hortus conclusus. It was a walled sanctuary that protected plants and herbs from harsh weather and predation by animals. It comprised a microclimate and provided a private, peaceful space for contemplation, prayer and study. Sometime soon, Pisces, I would love for you to create your personal equivalent of a hortus conclusus— even if it's metaphorical. You will harvest maximum benefits from surrounding yourself with extra nurturing. The insights that would come your way as you tend to your inner garden would be gently and sweetly spectacular.
HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: What's crucial for you to learn next? {in}
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news of the weird
FISH FLAMBE, S'IL VOUS PLAIT Fire investigators in British Columbia, Canada, discovered an unlikely culprit in a brush fire that knocked out power in the town of Ashcroft on July 30: a hungry osprey. Ashcroft Fire Rescue posted on social media that the peckish avian pulled a large fish from a river about two miles away, but as it labored to fly with its super-sized meal in the July heat, it became tired and eventually dropped the fish ... directly onto a power line, which sparked the blaze in the dry grass below. NBC Bay Area reported that it took about 4,800 gallons of water to stop the fire—quite a lot of trouble over a bird whose eyes were bigger than its stomach. "Another suspicion could be that it's tired of raw fish and wanted to give cooked a try," the post from Ashcroft Fire Rescue said.
NEW WORLD ORDER A zoo in northern Denmark has made an unsettling request of pet owners in Aalborg, the Associated Press reported. In a July 31 Facebook post, the zoo suggested, "If you have an animal that has to leave here for various reasons, feel free to donate it to us." Not for a domestic pet display, mind you. The zoo is planning to "gently euthanize" the donated animals and feed them to its predators. Zoo officials said they're trying to mimic the natural food chain, calling out specifically guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens as preferred donations. "That way, nothing goes to waste—and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition and well-being of our predators," the post read.
SPORTS WHIPLASH On July 31, as the Tampa Bay Rays battled the New York Yankees in the Bronx, one player ended up "winning today regardless," the Associated Press reported. Jose Caballero, 28, started the game with the Rays and played through the sixth inning. But during the seventh-inning stretch, he was traded to the Yankees. The deal was announced after the rain-delayed game, which the Yankees won. Caballero reportedly hugged his Tampa teammates in the dugout, then turned up in the Yankees clubhouse to conduct his post-game interview.
BRIGHT IDEA In the Hautes-Vosges region of France, farmers have become discouraged with the lack of help from the law regarding squatters who appear in camping vans and park illegally on private property. So, The Economic Times reported on Aug. 4, the farmers unleashed the power of the poo on the interlopers. Six tractors circled around the campers and released slurry—a mixture of manure and water—that's used to fertilize the soil. "We've had enough," one farmer said. "If no one listens, we make ourselves heard another way."
EASY THERE, LEADFOOT A driver on Germany's famed Autobahn was issued a $1,000 fine and had his license suspended for three months, CNN reported, after he exceeded the speed limit by 124 mph on July 28. Speed limit? On the Autobahn? Yes, while the motorway is known worldwide as a de facto raceway where drivers can go as fast as they please, it
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
has stretches where speed limits are posted and enforced. German police said the motorist was clocked at over 199 mph on the A2 highway near Burg, a portion of the Autobahn where the limit is 74.5 mph.
THE BEAR JAR For more than a week, residents of northwest Wisconsin had been riveted by sightings of a hapless yet elusive bear with a jar stuck on her head. "The bear had been identified plenty of times ... but by the time anyone got there that could help, she was gone," said Erik Donley of Duluth. Donley and his nieces were arriving at their family cabin when the bear came out of the woods near them. Understandably scared, the youngest niece locked the cabin doors—briefly leaving her poor uncle outside. The family called wildlife authorities, then Donley went back outside to follow the bear from a safe distance and prevent her from disappearing again. The USDA soon arrived, tranquilized the bear and finally—finally—removed that stubborn jar. Authorities said the creature was underweight for this time of year, but has been safely relocated and is expected to recover.
CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN To be awarded a scholarship for college, most prospective students must write a killer essay, but South Korean students with the right lofty aspirations can take a hike. Literally. According to UPI, Seoul National University offers a scholarship of up to $540 to students who climb any six mountains in the Blackyak Apline Club's 100 Famous Mountains and 100+ Famous Mountains lists, excluding those traversed by cable car or gondola. Students must use the Blackyak app to prove they hiked the mountains. The Misan Mountain Hiking Scholarship, which is funded by alumnus Kwon Jun-ha, 81, is highly competitive—only 70 spots are available, but 1,400 students applied for it during the open period from July 8-18. "The scholarship reflects the donor's desire to foster healthy individuals with a spirit of challenge and community spirit," the school said.
NO FANS OF DRAMA Farmers near Yellowstone National Park, struggling with wolves attacking their livestock but prohibited from harming the protected animals, have turned to technology— and Hollywood—for help in keeping the predators away. Yahoo News reported on Aug. 4 that quadcopter drones equipped with speakers blaring AC/ DC songs and audio from a Scarlett Johansson movie had been dispatched in the ongoing fight. Per the USDA, "people arguing is a distressing sound for wolves, and so the fight scene between Johansson and Adam Driver in the 2019 movie 'Marriage Story' is a perfect deterrent." The music and film clips seem to be working: Since their deployment, the number of cows killed by wolves in southern Oregon has fallen from 11 over a 20-day period to two over the next 85 days. {in}
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