Inweekly August 20 2026 Issue by Inweekly

BEST OF THE COAST 2026

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Well, the cat is out of the bag.

best of the coast 11

publisher Rick Outzen

graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Joshua Encinias, Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Dakota Parks, C.S. Satterwhite, Tom St. Myer

Independent News is published by Inweekly Media, Inc., P.O. Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591. (850)438-8115. All materials published in Independent News are copyrighted. © 2026 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

WINNER

B E ST C OOK I E S RUNNER UP

B E ST W E D D I N G CAKES B E ST C A K E S/ CUPCAKES CUSTOM CAKES & D E C O R AT E D C O O K I E S @ K AT E S C A K E S _ P E N S A C O L A 22

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August 20, 2026

winners & losers

Sandy Cox / Photo Courtesy of Pensacola Little Theatre

Christal Bell-Rivera / Courtesy of Escambia County

winners

losers

SANDY COX Pensacola Little Theatre has

named Cox as its new Executive Director following a nationwide search. Cox brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience across nonprofit, technology and public service sectors. She most recently served as Executive Director of TexARTS in Austin, Texas, where she guided the organization through the purchase and renovation of its first permanent home. Earlier, she held executive roles with Motorola, Freescale Semiconductor and FlexRadio Systems, and served as Mayor of Lakeway, Texas. Cox said she was drawn to PLT's nearly 90year legacy and its passionate volunteers and artists. She and her husband, Jay, are relocating to the Pensacola area.

PATRICK BALLASCH American Institute of Architects (AIA) Florida Northwest chapter awarded the President and Design Principal of DAG Architects with its Lifetime Achievement Honor Award to mark Ballasch's contributions to architecture across Northwest Florida over the past 37 years. Ballasch has served as the state director and president of the AIA Florida Northwest chapter. In May, the University of Florida School of Architecture awarded its Alumni Award for Distinguished Service for his extensive contributions, including serving as Chair of the Architectural Advisory Council and mentoring interns for over 25 years. ROBERT CARLIN Escambia County named

Carlin, Information Security Officer in the IT Department, its August 2026 Employee of the Month and honored him with a proclamation at the county commission meeting on Aug. 6. Carlin joined the county as an IT contractor in 2021, rising to Network Specialist, Security Analyst and his current role since May 2024. He leads the county's cybersecurity program and drove phishing-vulnerability scores below national benchmarks. He was praised for his rapid response during the 2024 global CrowdStrike outage, which minimized disruption to county services. Carlin also volunteers for the Day of Giving and advises George Stone Technical College's cybersecurity program.

CHRISTAL BELL-RIVERA The Escambia

County Library Services Director resigned effective Sept. 9, the county confirmed last week. The resignation follows an accusation from Congressional candidate Trei McMullen that Bell-Rivera and her husband tampered with his campaign signs at the Bellview Library early voting site. Bell-Rivera's appointment was contentious from the start when County Administrator Wes Moreno appointed her interim in August 2025. Six months later, Moreno overruled the Library Board of Governance's unanimous recommendation of a more experienced finalist, after the county quietly loosened job qualifications to make Bell-Rivera eligible.

ASHLEE HOFBERGER The Escambia County

Commissioner's judgment has come into question after the abrupt resignation of Library Services Director Christal Bell-Rivera. Hofberger took frequent photos with Bell-Rivera and vouched for her several times during the hiring process. In early March, she wrote her constituents, "I want to clearly express my full support for the decision to hire Christal Bell-Rivera as Library Services Director." At the March 5 commission meeting, Hofberger explained her endorsement of Bell-Rivera: "Sometimes you have to hire somebody for the heart that they have for the community, for the job that they are doing, and sometimes that's not exactly what's on the job description." Hofberger's support for Bell-Rivera led to the resignation of her aide Melanie Luna and inspired the campaign of her opponent, Joe Vinson, whose wife Hofberger and Luna disparaged.

ANDREW JACKSON STATUE At his local

press conference last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis said his statewide effort to honor historic figures for America's 250th anniversary considered Pensacola for Jackson's but hit a snag—because the city already has one. A bronze bust has stood in Plaza Ferdinand VII since 1984, marking the spot where Jackson was inaugurated as Florida's first territorial governor in July 1821. DeSantis said the tribute will instead go to Jackson County. The statue campaign has already placed monuments to Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Lincoln and others across the state. inweekly.net

August 20, 2026

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outtakes

By Rick Outzen

MY GREAT-GRANDFATHER'S ESCAPE A message arrived in my inbox last week from a woman named Lena in Denmark. She was seeking information about her great-grandmother's brother, Andreas Iverson Outzen, who left home for America at 16 and never returned. That boy was my great-grandfather. Lena found an old column of mine, "We Are All Immigrants," about my father's people from Denmark. She shared that it was common for the name "Andreas" to be changed to Andrew, my great-grandfather's name. Furthermore, Andrew named his son—my grandfather—George, which is the American equivalent of Jørgen, Andreas' father's name. As we compared notes, we realized that Andreas and Andrew were the same person. I filled her in on Andrew Outzen, whose Memphis-based company built many of the rail lines in Arkansas and Mississippi. After retiring to Earle, Ark., Andrew took on the task of building levees and a road system to help farmers preserve their crops and get them to market. His son, George, married my grandmother, Jane Cannon. Lene gave me what I didn't know: why Andreas left Denmark.

branded deserters if they ever returned home. Others sailed for America. At 16, Andreas chose America. On May 17, 1876, he boarded the Gellert in Hamburg, bound for Le Havre and then New York. He landed at Castle Garden on May 31 and told immigration officials two things: that he was traveling alone and that he intended to stay. He made his way to St. Louis where he had a relative, then to Texas to help build the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, then into Arkansas and Mississippi, where the company he owned built rail lines.

Most people fleeing for their lives today aren't much different THE STORY BEHIND from him. HIS ESCAPE As I read

WAKING UP GERMAN The Outzen fam-

ily had farmed the same five parishes in southern Denmark for generations. They were Danes, living in Schleswig, a duchy under the Danish crown. Then in 1864, Denmark lost the Second Schleswig War to Germany. A new border was drawn, placing the Outzen farm in Germany. Andreas was forced to attend German schools where Danish was forbidden. The family could no longer fly the Danish flag. White and red flowers, the colors of Denmark, could not be planted by the front door. His family's heritage was outlawed, and his future was equally dismal. At 19, every young man in Schleswig owed Germany three years of service as a soldier. A narrow window, from ages 15 to 19, existed when a young man could avoid conscription. Some fled to Denmark and risked being August 20, 2026

reporting on the upcoming midterm election, I think of Andreas Outzen. Candidates disparage immigrants as drains on our society and threats that must be managed. Andreas was a teenager running from a government that had erased his language, his flag, his identity and wanted him in uniform to fight its wars. He didn't have a visa or any official documents. Andreas had only a ship ticket and a dream of a better life. Most people fleeing for their lives today aren't much different from him. They carry the same fears Andreas carried onto the Gellert. They don't want a handout. Andreas didn't get one. Instead, he received an opportunity. My great-grandfather arrived in a country still recovering from the Civil War, one that allowed him to work and build good lives for his family and others living along the Mississippi River. The opportunity Andreas received is what most immigrants still seek from America. A week ago, I didn't know any of this history. I knew my great-grandfather came from Denmark, but I didn't know he had escaped from Germany's Denmark, from an empire that told him to stop being who he was. Lena, a stranger on the internet who turned out to be family, filled in that huge gap. We are all still immigrants. Some of us never learned or simply forgot our people's history. {in} rick@inweekly.net

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WINNER Best Restaurant: Cordova Area Best Brunch Best Wait Staff Best Mimosas

RUNNER UP Best Restaurant Overall Best Original Menu Best Espresso Drinks Best Appetizers • Best Grits Best Fries • Best Salads Best Chef: Carolyn Ore Best Up + Coming Chef: Kim Payne Best Barista: Mark Crutchfield Best Server: Winsome Thompson

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WINNER Best Restaurant Overall Best Original Menu Best Seafood • Best Oysters Best Appetizers Best Non-Alcoholic Drink Options

RUNNER UP Best Uniquely Pensacola Dish: Fried Red Snapper Collar Best Gluten-Free Options • Best Steak Best Restaurant for a Birthday Dinner Best Drink Menu • Best Martini Best Signature Drink: Chef George Martini Best Bartender: Kelly Soto-Medrano

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BEST OF THE COAST 2026

Embroidery by Natalie Allgyer Art direction by Joani Delezen Editing by Tim Bednarczyk Production photos by Geoff Peck

You voted. We counted. And in some really close cases, we recounted, a few times, just to make sure we got it right. Because something as serious as Best Brunch deserves nothing less. Because of you, Best of the Coast keeps growing every year, and we couldn't be more proud of what it's become. This time around, over 13,000 votes were cast, and this print issue

August 20, 2026

is 84 pages. Of course, we're only able to afford the print bill on such a big issue because of ad dollars. So to each and every business that said yes to advertising, thank you. But even 84 pages aren't enough, so make sure you tune in next week for Rest of the Best—where we celebrate the runners-up.

And of course, special issues celebrating small businesses run by hardworking humans deserve special art created by hardworking humans. So be on the lookout for some custom embroidery pieces throughout these issues, created in collaboration with local portrait photographer, seamstress and craftswoman extraordinaire Natalie Allgyer. {in}

THANKS FOR VOTING PENSACOLA SPORTS BEST! For details on these events, visit pensacolasports.org

WINNER: BEST RACE ENTRIES GOING FAST. DON’T MISS OUT!

PENSACOLA DOUBLE BRIDGE RUN Saturday, February 13, 2027

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RUNNER UP: BEST SPORTS EVENT TICKETS ON SALE SOON!

SEC SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP November 8–15, 2026

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COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E

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COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E BEST NONPROFIT Winner: Pensacola Habitat For Humanity Ballet Pensacola Fiesta Pensacola Pensacola Children's Chorus BEST CHARITY EVENT Winner: Children's Treasure Hunt (Fiesta Pensacola) Cabaret (Pensacola Little Theatre) Ovation (Pensacola Children's Chorus) Pensacola Paw-di Gras (WolfGang) BEST PLACE TO WORK Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union Global Learning Academy Gulf Winds Credit Union University of West Florida BEST BOSS Winner: Bridget Middleton (Fiesta Pensacola) Andrea Failing (University of West Florida Continuing Education) Alex Gartner (Pensacola Children's Chorus) Lalla Pierce (Global Learning Academy) BEST POLITICIAN Winner: D.C. Reeves Jasmine Brown Lumon May Gay Valimont

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BEST ADVOCACY/ACTIVIST GROUP Winner: Food Not Bombs Pensacola Party for Socialism & Liberation-Central Gulf Coast Strive Sunday's Child

BEST SPORTS EVENT Winner: Blue Wahoos Home Games Ice Flyers Home Games SEC Women's Soccer Tournament University of West Florida Football Home Games

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS Winner: Pensacola Beach Coastal Cat Cafe McGuire's Irish Pub National Naval Aviation Museum

BEST PARADE Winner: Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade Grand Fiesta Parade Pensacola Christmas Parade Pensacola Paw-di Gras (WolfGang)

BEST ANNUAL EVENT Winner: Christmas on the Coast (Pensacola Children's Chorus) Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival The Nutcracker (Ballet Pensacola) Pensacola Beach Air Show

BEST REGULAR/RECURRING EVENT Winner: Gallery Night Going Noir Mysteries ICMT Murder Mystery Company Palafox Market

BEST FOOD EVENT Winner: Pensacola Seafood Festival Pensacola Crawfish Festival Pensacola EggFest Pensacola Greek Festival BEST PET-FRIENDLY EVENT Winner: Pensacola Paw-di Gras (WolfGang) Barktoberfest (Pensacola Humane Society) Danetoberfest (Northwest Florida Great Dane Rescue) Doggone Tuesday (Blue Wahoos)

BEST EXPERIENCE-BASED BUSINESS Winner: Coastal Cat Cafe A Sweet Party Escape on Palafox Glow Paddle BEST FREE THING TO DO Winner: National Naval Aviation Museum Bands on the Beach General Chappie James Memorial Bridge Multipurpose Trail West Florida Public Libraries

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD Winner: East Hill Cordova Park North Hill Scenic Heights BEST PUBLIC PARK Winner: Bayview Park Bruce Beach Veterans Memorial Park Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park BEST PET-FRIENDLY PARK Winner: Bayview Park Beulah Regional Park Pensacola Beach Dog Park Perdido Key River Road Park BEST PLAYGROUND Winner: Bruce Beach Benny Russell Park Hitzman-Optimist Park Perdido Kids Park BEST YOUTH SPORTS/REC PROGRAM Winner: Gulf Breeze Futbol Academy Greater Pensacola Aquatic Club Greater Pensacola Figure Skating Club Pensacola Youth Soccer BEST DANCE STUDIO Winner: Ballet Pensacola Dance Academy of Santa Rosa

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COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E First Dance Ballroom Studio LaBelle Performing Arts BEST AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITY Winner: Pensacola Children's Chorus Ballet Pensacola Dixon After Hours Neighborhood Children's Theatre BEST SUMMER CAMP Winner: University of West Florida Explore Camps Ballet Pensacola Neighborhood Children's Theatre Pensacola Children's Chorus BEST PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY Winner: Coastal Cat Cafe A Sweet Party Corals Closet Pensacola MESS Hall BEST TV STATION Winner: WEAR Blab TV WKRG WSRE BEST RADIO STATION Winner: Cat Country 98.7 The Beat 107.3 NewsRadio 92.3/1620 WUWF 88.1 BEST RADIO PERSONALITY Winner: Brent Lane (Cat Country 98.7) Chris Clare (Cat Country 98.7) Jordan Glass (SportsRadio Pensacola 99.1/1330) Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620) BEST RADIO SHOW Winner: The Cat Pak Morning Show (Cat Country 98.7) The Glass Half Full with Jordan Glass (SportsRadio Pensacola 99.1/1330) The Morning Sports Take with Zach Schroeder (Fox Sports Pensacola 101.1/1450) Pensacola Morning News with Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620) BEST PODCAST Winner: Voices United in Education The Curious Introvert Debut Writers Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast BEST WEBSITE Winner: Visit Pensacola (visitpensacola.com) Cat Country 98.7 (catcountry987.com) Downtown Improvement Board (downtownpensacola.com) Local Pulse (localpulse.com)

BEST WAY TO GET CULTURED Winner: Pensacola Opera Ballet Pensacola Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Perfect Day Books BEST ART GALLERY/MUSEUM Winner: Pensacola Museum of Art 309 Punk Project Joe Hobbs Gallery Quayside Art Gallery BEST ARTIST Winner: Joe Hobbs Nate Schweigert Sarah Soule Webb Kelly Whibbs BEST AUTHOR/WRITER Winner: Anne Brooks Courtney Martin Nic Schuck Lachlan Woodson BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Winner: Geoff Peck Blake Jones Sean Mullins Nikki O'Hara BEST MUSIC VENUE Winner: Vinyl Music Hall Betty's on Belmont The Handlebar Saenger Theatre BEST BAND/MUSICIAN Winner: Katie Dineen Nobius Stormfolk Tirra Lirra BEST CONCERT/CONCERT SERIES Winner: Bands on the Beach Bands on the Bayou Christmas on the Coast (Pensacola Children's Chorus) Night Moves Fest BEST THEATRE PRODUCTION Winner: Jekyll & Hyde (Pensacola Little Theatre) The Nutcracker (Ballet Pensacola) Oklahoma! (Pensacola Opera) The Wizard of Oz (Neighborhood Children's Theatre) BEST COMEDIAN Winner: Improvable Cause Lamar DeFore Olivia Searcy Jeremy Young

THANK YOU

PENSACOLA FOR VOTING US SIX-TIME WINNERS OF BEST OF THE COAST BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

BEST BUSINESS OR PERSON TO FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA Winner: Pensacola Vibes Cat Country 98.7 Coastal Cat Cafe Local Pulse August 20, 2026

HantoClarke.com FL CGC1522132 | AL 53448

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COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E BALLET PENSACOLA

400 S. Jefferson St., balletpensacola.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Enhancing the cultural life of the community by developing an appreciation and knowledge of dance, producing quality dance performances and exceptional dance training. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Pensacola's remarkable growth and innovation inspire us to continually raise the bar and contribute to the momentum shaping our city's future. In a community where art is so important to this growth, we are honored to be trusted as a pillar. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The unwavering commitment of everyone who makes Ballet Pensacola possible. From our youngest students to our longest-standing patrons, each person plays an important role in our story. As any arts organization would understand, it truly takes a village. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our next chapter is centered on expanding Ballet Pensacola's reach by creating more opportunities for students to train, perform and grow while bringing internationally recognized artists to our studios for our professionals. By doing so, we continue our mission of enriching our community through exceptional dance education and transformative performances. Answers by: The Artistic Team

August 20, 2026

CAT COUNTRY 98.7

7251 Plantation Road catcountry987.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Cat Country 98.7 proudly serves the Pensacola area with live and local air talent who live, work and worship here. Hometown proud. Who or what inspires you to be your best? We believe in excellence in broadcasting. We are proud to be good stewards within our community by leading with community service and telling the stories that highlight the best of what makes Pensacola special. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Dedication—whether storm coverage or maximum deployment for the Blue Angels, the Cat Crew (with the NewsRadio and SportsRadio teams) work together to bring an event or issue to the top of listener minds. Proud to entertain, educate or learn from the community conversation. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Cat Country 98.7, NewsRadio 92.3 and SportsRadio 99.1/1330 are locally owned. We are excited to work with other Best of the Coast businesses to help tell their story and bring their business to life—on the air, on social, live and local. We are expanding our digital space every day. Answers by: Brent Lane, Morning Host/Program Director

COASTAL CAT CAFE

1508 W. Garden St., coastalcatpcola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Purrfectly Pensacola's favorite spot for coffee and rescue kitties. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The cats, of course. But also our incredible Pensacola community, whose passion for animal welfare drives us to do more every single day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our hardworking staff, volunteers and local supporters are the heart of our mission. We wouldn't be where we are without the community's dedication to giving rescue kitties a second chance. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Securing a permanent, larger home to expand our rescue capacity, opening a second location and creating even more spaces where our community and cats can connect. Answers by: Adrienne Brynteson, Owner

DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENT BOARD

226 S. Palafox St., downtownpensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We're working hard to make downtown Pensacola a great place to live, work and play. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Downtown businesses. The DIB was started by

downtown business owners who pay an extra property tax that's used to enhance the downtown district's quality of life and economic success, creating a cleaner, safer and more vibrant downtown for everyone to enjoy. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We're grateful to our Downtown Ambassadors, working behind the scenes to keep our streets, sidewalks and public areas sparkling clean; to the downtown businesses who partner with us daily to improve the downtown experience; and to our Palafox Market vendors who provide the region's best outdoor market every Saturday. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? October-November: another amazing Foo Foo Festival public art installation; September-October: expanded outdoor seating in Plaza Ferdinand; NovemberDecember: Palafox Market Holiday Market; November-January: downtown holiday lights. Answers by: Walker Wilson, Executive Director

EAST HILL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

myeasthill.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are a volunteer-led nonprofit that strives to nurture connections for a fun and vibrant East Hill where everyone belongs. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our vision is to be a charming, accessible des-

COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E tination where everyone is engaged, safe and happy to play, work and live. EHNA has twenty years of taking care of our unique and wonderful neighborhood, by respecting our rich past, caring for our present residents and planning for a dynamic future. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The young professionals, generous experts and active retirees that partner together on our board and committees lead in a selfless and contagious kind of way. This is not the fussy HOA of the past—these vibrant citizens are creating a community in its prime. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? EHNA looks forward to launching mini-grants: opportunities for our members to create sustainable neighborhood improvements by providing funding and networking support. And let's not forget, every month, there will be excellent concerts, engaging markets and park beautification. Answers by: Amy Farrell, President

FIESTA PENSACOLA

fiestapensacola.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Fiesta celebrates our heritage, promotes tourism and builds pride in Pensacola through festive activities which enhance the quality of life in our community. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Fiesta prides itself on community first. Through

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our Crawfish and Seafood Festivals, our Children's Treasure Hunt, our Fiesta Celebration and so much more throughout the year, we are honored to bring joy through these events to our city. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Fiesta considers itself a family. It is a generational organization. We have grandparents, parents and children all coming together to make Fiesta great. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? The Pensacola Seafood Festival is coming up in September, and it will be bigger and better than ever. Amazing music acts, vendors from all over the Southeast, local seafood and restaurants, children's area and so much more. Join us for a weekend of fun. Answers by: Margaret-Anne West, Director of Events

and pushes me to keep growing my own skills toward my absolute best. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I'd rather take the risk of being bad than play it safe and be boring. My clients are willing to go on that ride with me. My community tends to be original, unconventional people and that willingness to take a swing is exactly what makes the work great. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Clients stay the priority, but I'm focusing on growing a photo community through shows, zines, workshops and walks. I want to be a resource—helping new photographers grow, giving established ones a place to be seen and building a scene where everyone grows together. Answers by: Geoff Peck, Owner

GEOFF PECK CREATIVE SERVICES

improvablecause.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola's premier improv comedy troupe—making things up as we go since 2005. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our audiences and each other. Improv is truly a team sport that only works when everyone is fully present, performers and audience alike. It feels pretty magical when a room full of strangers builds something together that will never exist again. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Improv requires

geoffpeckcreativeservices.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Photography and video services for people and brands who value a clean, intentional and a little unconventional aesthetic. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Anyone doing serious work in their craft, their community or on themselves. Photography gives me direct access to people building businesses, raising families, chasing dreams, overcoming and growing. Being that close to it keeps me energized

IMPROVABLE CAUSE

trust and vulnerability. You have to know your scene partner has your back no matter what, and you have to be willing to look ridiculous in front of a room of strangers. We're all really close friends because of it. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? This year, we finally checked "perform at an improv comedy festival" off our list at the inaugural Mobile Improv Comedy Carnival. Next up is expanding our corporate team-building offerings and growing our audience with our new, earlier 8:30 p.m. showtime. Answers by: Brooke Hardy, Co-Owner

PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S CHORUS

46 E. Chase St., pensacolasings.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola Children's Chorus strives to foster the personal and social growth of its singers and engage the community through inspirational musical experiences. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Witnessing the growth of our singers. Each of our singers is empowered to realize their potential as musicians, performers and leaders within the community. We love seeing their passion to enact positive change in themselves and with others. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We are grateful to be among a community that understands the importance of the arts, especially for young people. As opportunities for arts-related

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COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E funding become increasingly limited, we are exceedingly grateful to our patrons, sponsors and donors who keep us going. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are eager to see more singers join our ranks. With opportunities for tuition assistance, free membership, partnership with the City of Pensacola and choirs throughout the region, there are numerous opportunities to get involved. Answers by: Garrett Hallbauer, Marketing and Communications Manager

PENSACOLA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

300 W. Leonard St., pensacolahabitat.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our vision is a community where everyone has a path to stable, affordable housing. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Seeing people open the door to their first home or remaining in their home thanks to critical home repairs. We are incredibly fortunate to witness the dedication of the hardworking people in this community who want and deserve a safe home for their families and future generations. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We're grateful to serve a community where businesses, volunteers and community partners are committed to coming together to address the housing crisis. Affordable housing is one of our community's biggest challenges, and we are honored to be part of the solution and fortunate to see the impact of our work. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? More people are struggling with housing prices than ever. We have evolved to meet that need and can assist a wide income range with a variety of housing solutions. We're building a mixed-income neighborhood that will reflect that organizational growth. We encourage you to find out how to get involved. Answers by: Sam Young, CEO/President

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE

400 S. Jefferson St., pensacolalittletheatre.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A theatre for the community, since 1936. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The volunteers and the community they have built here. This theatre wouldn't be here today without the support we have received from everyone. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The dedication to creating beautiful art. No matter what it is, you can see how intensely passionate everyone is about what they are doing. It shows in the productions, the building and the family that has been built. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are currently kicking off our 90th season and we hope to deliver performances and memories that last a lifetime. Answers by: Ashley Denny, Marketing Specialist

PENSACOLA OPERA

75 S. Tarragona St., pensacolaopera.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our mission is to enrich Northwest Florida by proAugust 20, 2026

ducing professional opera performances, educational programs and community events for people of all ages, interests and backgrounds. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our community. Our patrons, donors, sponsors, students and artists keep us continually striving for artistic excellence and good community stewardship. As long as support is present, we will continue to produce opera and opera-related programming and events of the highest quality for our region. We cannot thank this community enough. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team of artists is incredible. When your job is to share an incredible art form with your community, it brings so many rewards. Even amid political challenges and rising costs, the unwavering dedication of our staff and artists is the foundation of everything we accomplish at Pensacola Opera. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our upcoming season is one of our most exciting yet. From the breathtaking drama of "Tosca" to the irresistible charm of "The Elixir of Love," the powerful military story of "The Falling and the Rising" and an all-new Rock the Runway experience, there's something extraordinary for everyone this opera season. Answers by: Alex Hilkey, Director of Advancement

PENSACOLA SPORTS

1000 College Blvd., Bldg. 24 pensacolasports.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Enhancing the quality of life, health, wellbeing and economic development of the Pensacola and surrounding regions through sports, recreation and tourism promotion. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our community. The residents, athletes, families, volunteers and partners who help us create meaningful experiences, strengthen quality of life and drive economic development throughout the Pensacola region. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team's shared passion for Pensacola, willingness to work together and commitment to making every event count. We are equally inspired by the people we serve, the residents, athletes, families, visitors, volunteers and partners who bring energy, purpose and pride to our work. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Expand event recruitment by attracting more regional, national and international competitions to the Pensacola area. Create a memorable experience to increase visitation and generate greater impact for our community. Answers by: Ray Palmer, CEO/President

PENSACOLA VIBES

244 S. M St., pensacolavibes.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where sunshine meets the Gulf. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The people of Pensacola inspire me to showcase Pensacola the best I can. They motivate me every day to be the best creative I can be. 21

COMMUNITY, MEDIA + CULTUR E What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? People going out of their way to tell me how much they love my work. For me personally, it gives me meaning to life. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? A new Pensacola Beach coffee table book showcasing some of my best work in the past decade. Answers by: Sean Mullins, Owner

SANTA ROSA ISLAND AUTHORITY

1 Via de Luna Drive, visitpensacolabeach.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Mission: to preserve our natural resources, manage growth and promote eco-friendly tourism in a clean, safe community environment. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My hardworking team, successful friends and supportive family. Their dedication, encouragement and belief in me continually challenges me to grow, work harder and strive for excellence in both my personal and professional life. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I'm grateful to be part of the small but mighty team at the Santa Rosa Island Authority. Together, we proudly serve our full-time residents, leaseholders and the millions of visitors who enjoy our beloved island, working every day to preserve and enhance Pensacola Beach for generations to come.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? As we wrap up another successful summer, we're looking ahead to a busy fall on Pensacola Beach. Our focus is delivering memorable events like BeachO-Ween and Cinemas in the Sand while finishing the Bands on the Beach season strong and continuing to create exceptional experiences for our community and visitors. Answers by: Robbie Schrock, Director of Administration

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? UWF has unique resources that are not available to other camps, including people, programs, physical equipment and special spaces—indoors and out. We plan to continue creating new, one-of-a-kind camps that incorporate more of these resources and new partnerships across campus. Answers by: Samantha Zook-Johnson, Camp Director/Camps and Community Outreach Coordinator

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? As the official destination marketing organization for Escambia County (Pensacola, Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key), our next goal is to continue raising the bar through authentic storytelling, innovative digital experiences and data-driven strategies that inspire travelers, strengthen our tourism community and bring "The Way to Beach" to life. Answers by: Nicole Stacey, VP of Destination Development

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA EXPLORE CAMPS

VISIT PENSACOLA

WOLFGANG

11000 University Parkway uwf.edu/explorecamps If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? An exciting, unique place for kids to think critically, create, communicate, collaborate and build community. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our campers. Their curiosity, interests and drive to explore the world are the foundation for everything we do at Explore Camps. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The enthusiasm our campers bring to Explore Camps. They get so excited while learning, and those giant smiles we see when campers tell parents new facts about gravity, laugh about turtles they saw on our nature trail or share Mars colonies they created from recyclables—that's the best.

1401 E. Gregory St., visitpensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? "The Way to Beach" starts here—connecting travelers through authentic stories, trusted local insights and an inspiring digital experience. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The people and places that make Pensacola special. From our tourism partners and local businesses to our residents and visitors, their passion inspires the Visit Pensacola team to tell authentic stories that bring "The Way to Beach" to life. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We're proud to serve a community that welcomes visitors with genuine hospitality. Our team, tourism partners and local businesses share a passion for Pensacola, and that collaboration allows us to tell authentic stories that inspire travel and strengthen our destination.

wolfgangparkandbrews.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are the dog business that puts dogs as the guest of honor. Pet Pensacola dogs. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our community, customers, friends and family. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The love for animals and the love of bringing our community together over dogs, philanthropy and Pensacola. Our community is so fantastic and supports small businesses so well. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our brick and mortar location is in the works for WolfGang. We also plan to make Pensacola Paw-di Gras even bigger and better for the 6th Annual in January. Answers by: Jessica and Kim Wolford, CEO/Founders/Managing Partners

THANK YOU FOR VOTING!

Best Summer Camps

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HEALTH + W ELLNESS August 20, 2026

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HEALTH + WELLNESS BEST GYM Winner: Coastal Fitness Training Anytime Fitness Cantonment Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA REGYMEN Fitness

BEST BOOTCAMP Winner: Coastal Fitness Training 4 Shore Fit Burn Boot Camp Militia Fitness Pensacola

BEST DENTISTRY Winner: Emerald Coast Smiles by Design Gibson & Heath Family Dentistry Spanish Trail Dentistry Summit Dental

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER Winner: Bree Bishop Uher (Anytime Fitness Cantonment) Michelle Brooks (Elevate Training and Fitness) Candace Rorrer (Essentially Fit) Jake Schwartz (Burn Boot Camp)

BEST WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM Winner: Wali Wellness Evolve Medical ProHealth Labs and Medical Care Thrive Hormone & Longevity Institute

BEST ENDODONTICS Winner: Pensacola Center for Endodontics Elite Endodontics Pensacola Endodontics Speck Endodontics

BEST RUNNING CLUB Winner: Running Wild 200 South Tap House Fleet Feet Pensacola Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

BEST ORTHODONTICS Winner: Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics Shehee & Callahan Family Orthodontics Sims Orthodontics Smart Smiles Orthodontics

BEST RACE Winner: Double Bridge Run Fiesta of Five Flags 10k & 5k McGuire's St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K Run Pensacola Half Marathon & 5K

BEST PEDIATRICIAN Winner: Dr. Randall Reese (Pensacola Pediatrics) Dr. Brandy Boutin (Ascension Medical Group) Dr. Amy Foland (Pensacola Pediatrics) Dr. Tiffany Ramos (Pensacola Pediatrics)

BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO Winner: Wild Lemon Disko Lemonade Elevate Training and Fitness Essentially Fit BEST FITNESS CLASSES Winner: REGYMEN Fitness Burn Boot Camp Coastal Fitness Training Wild Lemon BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR Winner: Sarah Jane Blakely (Wild Lemon) Brandee Brinker (Coastal Fitness Training) Jenn Jordan (REGYMEN Fitness) Brenda Reedy (Coastal Fitness Training) BEST YOGA Winner: Disko Lemonade Golden Hour Yoga and Tea House URU Yoga & Beyond Yoga Abode BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR Winner: Justin Nutt (Community Health Northwest Florida) Donna Dickey (Yoga Abode) Shahana Hanley (Golden Hour Yoga and Tea House) Briana Knight (Disko Lemonade) BEST PILATES Winner: Wild Lemon Disko Lemonade The Gadsden Studio Pure Pilates

BEST HOSPITAL Winner: Baptist Hospital Ascension Sacred Heart Gulf Breeze Hospital HCA Florida West Hospital BEST PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER Winner: Dr. Tristan Brooks (Ladder to the Stars Wellness) Dr. Charles Blay (Woodlands Medical Specialists) Katlynn Gilmore, ARNP, FNP-BC (ProHealth Labs and Medical Care) Dr. Jennifer Miley (Woodlands Medical Specialists) BEST CHIROPRACTOR Winner: Dr. Jason Stern (Stern Chiropractic Clinic) Dr. Craig Henry (Henry Chiropractic) Dr. Lindsey Jeudevine (Olde Seville Chiropractic) Dr. Gabriel Waterman (Dynamic Life Chiropractic)

BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Winner: Kam Kingsland, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services) Tamara Driskell, LMHC (Arya Therapy Services) Scott Durrance, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services) Eleanor Phoenix, LMHC (Inclusive Counseling) BEST OB/GYN Winner: Dr. Brian Sontag (Ascension Medical Group) Dr. Ana Antonetti (The Women's Group) Dr. Jairan L. Duke-Elmore (Ascension Medical Group) Dr. Noelle Turnbow (Ascension Medical Group)

BEST DERMATOLOGIST Winner: Dr. Sean Branch (Proper Dermatology) Dr. Jenna Beasley (Vital Dermatology) Danielle Farrior, APRN-C (The Dermatology & Laser Center at Medical Center Clinic) Dr. Amy Pote Watson (Pensacola Dermatology) BEST PLASTIC SURGERY Winner: Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery LeBeau Clinic Ortega Plastic Surgery Shaddix Plastic Surgery BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY Winner: SWELL Physical Therapy & Performance Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Renew Integrative Physical Therapy Stark Performance Physical Therapy BEST PHARMACY Winner: First City Drugs Community Health Northwest Florida East Hill Pharmacy Everwell Specialty Pharmacy BEST WALK-IN CLINIC Winner: ProHealth Labs and Medical Care Ascension Sacred Heart Urgent Care Baptist Urgent Care Community Health Northwest Florida BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY Winner: Sunburn Cannabis Sunnyside Medical Cannabis Dispensary Surterra Wellness Trulieve

BEST OPTOMETRIST Winner: Dr. Jacob Lock (Gulf Coast Vision Center) Dr. Jill Anderson (Clarkson Eyecare) Dr. Lindsay Durtschi (Midtown Vision) Dr. Gene Terrezza (Terrezza Optical)

Every day, 50 new people reach out for help Donate today at GiveLakeview.org. August 20, 2026

HEALTH + WELLNESS APEX PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES

disko lemonade BEST YOGA

winner

Best Pilates Best Boutique Fitness Studio & Briana Knight Best Yoga Instructor runner up

@ Southtowne

120 S. Jefferson St.

facebook.com/diskolemonade

Thank you for voting

Pensacola beach BANDS ON THE BEACH Winner

Best Concert/Concert Series

Runner Up Best Free Thing to Do

PENSACOLA BEACH Winner

Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests

Winner

Best Place to Propose

PENSACOLA BEACH AIR SHOW Runner Up Best Annual Event

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308 S. Jefferson St. apexpsychiatricservices.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Thrive, don't just survive. Who or what inspires you to be your best? I love helping people feel better and reach their mental health goals. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our whole team is amazing. They work tirelessly each day to make sure our clients get everything they need to feel better. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continuing to help people thrive while serving our community with compassion and excellence. Answers by: Kam Kingsland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

COASTAL FITNESS TRAINING

6057 Gulf Breeze Parkway coastalfitnesstraining.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? It's not just a gym. It's a community empowering women through fitness, faith, friendship and the purpose to live stronger, healthier, more confident lives. Who or what inspires you to be your best? God. My faith, family and the incredible community at CFT encourages me to be my best and lead by example daily. My purpose is to help women become stronger physically while growing into the women God created them to be, building strength, confidence, faith and purpose. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My team's servant hearts, dedication to our members and their children and their willingness to continually learn and grow. They lead by example, go above and beyond and help make CFT a place where every woman feels supported and empowered. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue evolving by expanding our lifting classes, personal training, challenges and competitions while educating women that fitness is a lifelong lifestyle, not a quick fix. We're committed to creating more opportunities for every woman to grow stronger, live longer and thrive. Answers by: Brandee Brinker, Owner/Trainer

COMMUNITY HEALTH NORTHWEST FLORIDA

healthcarewithinreach.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Healthcare within reach. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our patients bring out the best in us. We're here for them every day, regardless of income or insurance status. If you need us, we're here. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Everyone who works at Community Health Northwest Florida moves with the mission in mind—ensuring anyone who wants healthcare can have it.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We continue to grow in service of our mission to help as many people as we can, as well as we can. Answers by: Chandra Smiley, CEO

DISKO LEMONADE

120 S. Jefferson St., diskolemonade.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A lighthearted yoga and fitness space where you can be fully yourself and feel truly welcomed as you are. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The students, 100%. We will always be trying to improve the experience for the students and it will be an ongoing endeavor for as long as we are honored to be in business. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The team and the students are incredibly committed to lifting each other up. It's amazing to see how community members welcome each other, make new people feel included and celebrate each other's wins. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Italy retreat, November 2026. We are so excited to continue to connect with students in such a beautiful setting, returning to Tuscany for our third year. Answers by: Briana Knight, Owner/Operator

FIRST CITY DRUGS

6005 College Parkway, Ste. 1 firstcitydrugs.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A pharmacy that cares and knows their patients, owned by locals that gives back to the community. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our relationships with patients drive everything we do. We left corporate jobs to have the time to properly care for our patients the way everyone deserves. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We are lucky to be able to serve the best customers in the Pensacola area. They are more than customers and we appreciate the continued support they have shown us over the last five years. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are always looking for the next opportunity to help our pharmacy better serve the community. Peptides have been a hot topic item and we are looking forward to hopefully being able to expand that program in the near future. Answers by: Natalie Malone and Derek Stephens, Co-Owners/Pharmacists

GULF COAST PLASTIC SURGERY

543 Fontaine St., gulfcoastplasticsurgery.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery offers advanced cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive care in Pensacola. Our expert team delivers exceptional results, personalized service and state-of-theart technology. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our patients. The life-changing results we help

achieve—and the confidence, happiness and gratitude reflected in our reviews—motivate us to continually deliver exceptional care, outstanding outcomes and an unparalleled patient experience. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The familylike bond we've built through years of caring for patients during deeply personal journeys. Together, we celebrate life-changing transformations, support one another and share a commitment to helping patients look and feel their very best. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Delivering complete wellness, recovery and longevity care. Through The Restoration Room, we offer advanced healing therapies, while GetHair MD and hormone replacement therapy address hair, metabolic and midlife health—helping patients look, feel, heal and thrive at every stage of life. Answers by: Dana Hof, Marketing Director

LADDER TO THE STARS WELLNESS

22 N. Tarragona St., laddertothestars.blog If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Accessible, compassionate primary care for busy professionals that's only a text or call away. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My husband and children (ages 4 and 6). I want them to see Mommy working hard, helping people, going for her dreams and still making time for their big and small moments. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My patients are the best. They trust me to care for them in vulnerable situations—whether that's a home visit for illness or quick check-in for reassurance about a lab result. That trust builds as we all share in the struggle of juggling life, work, family, friendships and being human. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Recently, I've added perimenopausal care to my repertoire. But overall, I'll keep building long-lasting relationships with patients in my hometown as the more traditional, "Dr. Quinn, medicine woman" family doctor— spending the time needed to delve deep and being available same and next day. Answers by: Dr. Tristan Brooks, D.O., M.S., PMH-C, DipABLM

PROPER DERMATOLOGY

30 Daniel Circle, properderm.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where your skin comes first. Full-spectrum dermatology delivered with the expertise of a specialist and the warmth of family. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My patients and my kids. Nearly twenty years serving Hands to Love, a camp for children with limb differences, taught me that how you treat people matters as much as what you know. I want my children to see their dad build something that treats everyone like family. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team shows up. They sweat the details and go the extra mile to give care that everyone deserves but does inweekly.net

HEALTH + WELLNESS not always get. And our wonderful patients trust us with their most personal concerns, often at vulnerable moments. That is an honor we do not take lightly. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are working on adding physicians to our team and looking to expand our reach. But the honest answer is the same every year: keep getting better, keep the door open and treat every patient the way we would want to be treated. Answers by: Sean Branch, DO, FAAD, Dermatologist

REGYMEN FITNESS

5007 N. Davis Highway regymenfitness.com/pensacola If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? REGYMEN is more than a gym. We're a community that challenges, supports and empowers people to become stronger in every aspect of life. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our members. Watching someone accomplish something they once thought was impossible reminds us why we do what we do. Their resilience, consistency and willingness to keep showing up challenge our team to bring our very best every single day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our culture. Our coaches genuinely care about every member who walks through the door, and our members support each other like family. It's incredible to watch friendships form, confidence grow and lives change because people chose to show up together. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Let's just say, there are some exciting surprises on the horizon. We're reimagining parts of the studio and expanding the ways our community can train. Get ready—big things are coming. We serve as the corporate office and test studio for the brand. It has its perks. Answers by: Leah M. Seacrest, Owner/VP of Franchising

SWELL PHYSICAL THERAPY & PERFORMANCE

810 Scenic Highway, Ste. A swellptp.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We help active people eliminate pain, move better, recover smarter, train harder and perform at their best through personalized,

August 20, 2026

one-on-one physical therapy and performance services. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients. Their resilience, determination and trust challenge us to continually learn, improve and provide the highest level of care. Helping people return to the activities they love is what drives us to be our best. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team genuinely cares about every person who walks through our doors, and our clients inspire us daily with their commitment to improving their health. The trust they place in us motivates us to keep learning, growing and delivering the highest level of care. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our focus is continuing to raise the standard for physical therapy by expanding access to high-quality, individualized care, growing our team and helping even more people stay active, healthy and doing what they love for years to come. Answers by: Dr. Anthony Inzillo, Owner/Physical Therapist

WILD LEMON

3000 N. 12th Ave., 904 E. Scott St. and 913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Unit 9 wildlemonstudios.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pilates is for every body. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our community of new and experienced curious movers who are so dedicated to their practice inspire us to learn more, improve our systems and spaces regularly and never stop being teachable. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My team of teachers pour so much presence, experience and care into every class and session. My apprentices pour so much energy, excitement and attention into each other and every class they teach. Surrounding myself with passionate, purposeful people is the best gift I give to myself daily. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My husband, Bill Manning, and I just opened a real estate brokerage: Luxpoint Real Estate. Luxpoint exists to assist people in finding their next home or investment property or place to grow their own business, or to sell their property. We are excited to serve this community in new ways. Answers by: Kiley Bolster Manning, Owner/Movement Coach

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Congratulations, Justin Nutt! Best Yoga Instructor

Building Vibrant Cities Across America Back for a second year in partnership between the Center for Civic Engagement and Strong Towns, the Civic Leader Summit is a conference for those who believe in the power of place. It equips leaders, public officials, business owners, and active residents with the tools to create communities that are vibrant, resilient, and thriving.

What to Expect

5 Inspiring Keynotes

20 Engaging Breakout Sessions 3 Stunning Downtown Venues Actionable Civic Strategies Meaningful Connections

Oct. 6-8, 2026 | Pensacola, FL

We’re also honored that you chose us as Runner Up Best Pharmacy Runner Up Best Walk-In Clinic

The Center for Civic Engagement, Inc. is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization. Strong Towns is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. August 20, 2026

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SERV ICES

Original photo by Natalie Allgyer August 20, 2026

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SERVICES BEST HAIR SALON–PENSACOLA Winner: Loxx Studios Hair + Co The Powder Room Salon San Carlos

BEST MASSAGE Winner: Escape Wellness Spa 12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group Bodyworks of Perdido Key Lovelock Healing Arts

BEST BANK Winner: Regions Bank Hancock Whitney PNC Bank Synovus Bank

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX Winner: Avalon Apartments Azalea Bay Apartments Lyria Apartments Palmilla

BEST HAIR SALON–GULF BREEZE/ PENSACOLA BEACH Winner: Olli+Izzie Style House All Things Nikki The Blue Magnolia Salon Opulence Salon

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST Winner: Jen Bryars (Escape Wellness Spa) Jessica Davis (Cordova Skin & Body) Dan Lovelock (Lovelock Healing Arts) Whitney Pike (Escape Wellness Spa)

BEST CREDIT UNION Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union Gulf Winds Credit Union Harvesters Credit Union PenAir Credit Union

BEST ARCHITECTURE FIRM Winner: Dalrymple | Sallis Architecture Brett Duch Architect Caldwell Architects SKG Architecture

BEST HAIR SALON–MILTON/PACE Winner: The Hair Loft The Hair Society Penton House Salon & Day Spa Posh Color Bar

BEST PEDICURE Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa Medina Belleza Vibar Nails

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR Winner: Andrew Martin (Atlas Financial Strategies) Jacey Cosentino (Edward Jones) Alex Coyne (Northwestern Mutual) Gulf Coast Business & Wealth

BEST LAW FIRM Winner: Taylor, Warren, Weidner, Hancock & Barnes, P.A. Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz, PLC Crawford Law My Pink Lawyer

BEST HAIR STYLIST Winner: Brittany Hightower (Olli+Izzie Style House) Alex Horne Garcia (Hairy Alex Horne Salon) Gabrielle Montoya (Loxx Studios) Alison Sardina (The Blue Magnolia Salon)

BEST MANICURE Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa HyVy Nail Spa Vibar Nails

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM Winner: Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund Hale and Doerr John Pharr CPA Warren Averett

BEST NAIL ARTIST Winner: Van Nguyen (Élan The Beauty Bar) Rebekah Elease (Flash House) Savannah Locklin (Gilded Pensacola) Tuyet Nhung Phan (Élan The Beauty Bar)

BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY Winner: Levin Rinke Realty Conna O'Donovan Real Estate Innerscope Realty Kuhn Realty

BEST ATTORNEY Winner: Chris Crawford (Crawford Law) Amanda Lynch Elliott (My Pink Lawyer) Stephanie Taylor (Taylor, Warren, Weidner, Hancock & Barnes, P.A.) Aaron Watson (The Watson Firm)

BEST HAIR REMOVAL Winner: Rae & Co Esthetics Studio Beauty and the Beam Laser and Electrolysis Brazilian Wax of Pensacola Escape Wellness Spa

BEST COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY Winner: NAI Pensacola Gunther Properties Neal & Company The Zimmern Team

BEST HAIR COLORIST Winner: Linda Krepp (Lox by Linda) Nina Bonita (Nina Bonita Beauty) Jaclyn Garcia (Salon San Carlos) Shannon Pope (Olli+Izzie Style House) BEST BARBER SHOP Winner: Barberos Barbershop East Hill Barbershop The Green Room Barbershop Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods BEST BARBER Winner: Ka Noel Delarosa (Loxx Studios) Christian Dearman (Time 4A Kut) Joey McClain (Barberos Barbershop) Luna Zepp (Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods) BEST DAY SPA Winner: Escape Wellness Spa Bodyworks of Perdido Key Stay The Spa Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

August 20, 2026

BEST FACIAL/SKIN CARE Winner: Rae & Co Esthetics Studio Escape Wellness Spa Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa Skin by Flynn BEST ESTHETICIAN Winner: Tiffany Miller (Rae & Co Esthetics Studio) Lauren Bell (Escape Wellness Spa) Kaila Danielle (Wink & Wax Beauty Studio) Molly Flynn (Skin by Flynn)

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Winner: Simone Sands (Engel & Völkers) Bailie D'Aversa (eXp Realty) Amber Jernigan (Engel & Völkers) Kira Santos (Levin Rinke Realty) BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL Winner: Celestine Bed and Breakfast Lily Hall Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel Pensacola Victorian B&B

BEST VETERINARY CLINIC Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital Davis Animal Hospital East Hill Animal Hospital Pine Meadow Veterinary Clinic BEST DOG GROOMER Winner: The Groomery Cozy Corner Grooming & Boarding Pensacola Pet Resort Premier Vanity Fur BEST DOG TRAINING Winner: K9-KENT Dog Training Elite The Noble Canine Off Leash K9 Training Emerald Coast BEST PET BOARDING/ VACATION CARE Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital K9-KENT Miss Pearl's Bed & Biscuit The Noble Canine

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SERVICES BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY Winner: Hanto + Clarke General Contractors Greenhut Construction Company, Inc. Homewood Construction Morette Company

BEST TATTOO ARTIST Winner: MacKenzie Erin LeMoine (Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio) Carrie Daniels (Fortune Tattoo) Dave Ham (The Western Rose) Robert Smith (Fates Tattoo)

BEST LANDSCAPING Winner: Florida Native Landscapes Blue Sky Landscapes Eye Candy Lawns Gulf Coast Tree & Land

BEST SPECIAL EVENT SPACE Winner: Supposey Warehouse & Gardens A Sweet Party Culinary Productions, Inc. Petit Ami Event Venue

BEST PORTRAIT/ FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY Winner: Christy Kerr Photography Caitlin Nicole Photo Kayla Matthews Beach Photography Lindsey Friar Photography

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER Winner: Blu Salmon Lacy Phillips Designs Nest Interiors Inc. STUDIO PICA

BEST PARTY DECOR Winner: A Sweet Party Bashes & Bubbly Bubbly Balloon Events Light Bright Events

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM/COMPANY Winner: Riptide Media McKinley Made PV Cobia Photo + Video Wave Photo by Aislinn Kate

BEST CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING Winner: Aiken Picture Frames South Framing by Design Just Plain Putter Marty Campbell Gallery & Frame Shop

BEST MOBILE EVENT SERVICE/EXPERIENCE Winner: Whim Cotton Candy One Shot Two Shot Tap the Coast The Thirsty Ranch

BEST TAILOR/ALTERATIONS Winner: Ruthy's Creations and Alterations 3 Muses Costumes & Alterations Bosa's Tailor Shop Swan Alterations

BEST CATERER Winner: Culinary Productions, Inc. Classic City Catering Four Seasons Catering & Eatery Nancy's Catering & Events

BEST CAR WASH/DETAILER Winner: Perdido Auto Spa Eco Car Wash New Era Detail & Wash Ronny's Car Wash

BEST TATTOO & PIERCING STUDIO Winner: Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio Fates Tattoo Fortune Tattoo The Western Rose

August 20, 2026

BEST FLORIST Winner: Fiore of Pensacola Celebrations The Florist Hummingbirds Flowers & Events Just Judy's Flowers, Local Art & Gifts

BEST AUTO SERVICE SHOP Winner: Pensacola A/C & Auto Service Center Cannon Automotive East Hill Automotive Center Evans Automotive Service Center BEST GREEN BUSINESS Winner: Salon San Carlos Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe The Farm Native Plant Company BEST NEW BUSINESS Winner: SKG Architecture Gulf Coast Business & Wealth Pretty Little Latte TAME Coffee

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August 20, 2026

SERVICES BARBEROS BARBERSHOP

6675 Pine Forest Road, Ste. 1 barberosbarbershop.booksy.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A modern barbershop offering quality haircuts in a comfortable environment. Who or what inspires you to be your best? I would say competition. Our industry is constantly growing and there are a lot of great shops and shop owners around town, so we can never get too comfortable and there's always room for self-improvement. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Their loyalty. I've had some guys with me for over 10 years, so we are more like family than just coworkers. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Just growth and consistency. Answers by: Cody Turner, Owner

BLU SALMON

33 W. Garden St., Ste. 10, blusalmon.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Design differently. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Impacting people's lives. Design changes the patterns of our everyday moves; that's impactful. It changes us physically and emotionally. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team works as a team to deliver consistently creative solutions and make the entire process feel effortless for our clients. We don't take shortcuts, and we don't do boring. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To share the design journey with our clients, spark the idea, create the vision and help them transform their spaces. Answers by: Teresa Dos Santos, President

CELESTINE BED AND BREAKFAST

514 N. Baylen St. celestinebedandbreakfast.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Celestine is an award-winning boutique bed and breakfast offering elegant accommodations, chefprepared breakfasts and personalized Southern hospitality in historic Pensacola. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our guests. Whether celebrating milestones, reconnecting with loved ones or simply seeking rest, they remind us that hospitality can create meaningful connections. Their trust inspires us to elevate every detail and create memorable stays they'll treasure, recommend and return to experience again. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team's shared commitment to making every guest feel genuinely welcomed and cared for. We're equally grateful for the trust our guests place in us during meaningful moments, and we strive to reward that trust with thoughtful service, beautiful surroundings and experiences worth returning for. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue giving both our neighbors and visiting guests another reason to choose Pensacola by elevating every stay through thoughtful details, curated experi040 4

ences and personalized hospitality. We hope every guest leaves with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for our community. Answers by: Gerald Robinson and Cornelia Robinson Edwards, Owners

CHRISTY KERR PHOTOGRAPHY

christykerrphoto.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where genuine connection becomes timeless art. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My son. He reminds me to slow down, find joy in the little moments and lead by example. He is the reason I work so hard, chase my dreams and strive to create a life that shows him anything is possible. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The families, couples and individuals who trust me with their most meaningful moments. Being invited into those milestones is something I never take for granted, and it's an honor to capture memories that will be cherished for generations. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue growing my business into a trusted brand known for timeless storytelling. I'm focused on expanding my portfolio, creating an unforgettable client experience and booking more destination elopements while continuing to serve families in my community. Answers by: Christy Kerr, Owner/Photographer

DALRYMPLE | SALLIS ARCHITECTURE

503 E. Government St., dalsal.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Each day our team endeavors to create impactful design that builds the quality of our community. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients and the community we serve. Witnessing their collective potential to evolve and thrive pushes us to elevate our work and design a better future. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I am incredibly proud of our team. Their thoughtful commitment to supporting one another naturally carries over to our clients, ensuring they receive the highest level of care and attention. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To sustain the exceptional service and community impact that earned us the title of Best Architecture Firm—and to maintain that standard for the next decade. Answers by: J. Scott Sallis, AIA, Principal Architect

ÉLAN THE BEAUTY BAR

960 E. Nine Mile Road, Ste. 1 instagram.com/elanthebeautybar If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where beauty meets confidence. A place to elevate your glow, inside and out. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients. Their trust, loyalty and support push us to keep improving and giving our best every single day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our clients' continued loyalty and repeat business, as inweekly.net

FOOD EVENT: PENSACOL

ARITY EVENT: CHIL BEST CH DREN NER ’S T N I REA •W L SU VI A

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WINNER Best Charity Event: Children’s Treasure Hunt

BEST

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WINNER Best Food Event: Pensacola Seafood Festival

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WINNER Best Bloody Mary: Pensacola Crawfish Festival

WINNER Best Boss: Bridget Middleton

RY: PENSACOLA CR DDY MA AWFI S T BLO H FES BES TIV

Fiesta Pensacola

EST BOSS: BRIDGET M IDDL NNER B ETO N•

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g n i t o v r o f u o y k n a Th

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RUNNER-UP Best Food Event: Pensacola Crawfish Festival RUNNER-UP Best Nonprofit: Fiesta Pensacola RUNNER-UP Best Parade: Grand Fiesta Parade

Big Art. Live Music. Real Pensacola. Foo for the Soul. Oct. 29 – Nov. 9 foofoofest.com August 20, 2026

SERVICES well as their referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations that helped our business grow. We appreciate the trust and confidence they place in us and value their honest feedback that helps us improve our services. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Expanding Élan is always a possibility when the time is right, but I truly believe quality over quantity is what makes a successful business. At the moment, I want to focus on what we have now and to continue giving our best to our clients. Answers by: Vy Nguyen, Owner

ESCAPE WELLNESS SPA

4400 Bayou Blvd., Ste. 24 escapeandfeelbetter.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? When people feel better, they live better. Every massage, facial and act of care creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond our walls. Escape and feel better. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients. Watching someone walk in carrying stress and leave standing taller, smiling brighter and feeling more like themselves reminds us that caring for one person creates a ripple effect that reaches families, workplaces and our entire community. Escape the noise; return to you. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team genuinely leads with empathy. They care deeply about helping others feel seen, supported, restored. Our

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clients trust us with some of life's most vulnerable moments and that trust inspires us to show up for them with excellence, kindness and heart every day. Grateful participants in their transformations. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Next year we will celebrate 20 years. Twenty years of serving Pensacola while growing, investing in our team, elevating our spas, creating even more meaningful ways to help people care for themselves. Escape will continue to exemplify Best of the Coast, where wellness, education and genuine human connection come together. Answers by: Stephanie Knight, CEO/Founder

FIORE OF PENSACOLA

405 S. K St., fioreofpensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Fiore turns 21 in August. It took us 21 years to become legally drinkable—but we've always been intoxicatingly good at what we do. Who or what inspires you to be your best? I get up and get moving every morning with a run outside. I boost my dopamine and go to work with the most creative and fun team and make flower magic for our amazing clients. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I get to come to work every day with an amazing team of strong, smart and creative women. We are a woman-run business for 21 years and 15 of those years with the same people by my side. Such an honor.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? "Follow the Flower" is our amazing short doc that follows the journey of the Alaskan peony to Pensacola. It tells the beautiful story of the farmer to the florist and what work we are doing behind the scenes to make your event dreams come true. Answers by: Shannon Murphy Pallin, Creative Director/Filmmaker/Owner

across the Gulf Coast while protecting what got us here. We're investing in our people, deepening relationships in healthcare, education and commercial markets and expanding our geographic reach. The goal isn't just more projects. It's more people we can make construction enjoyable for. Answers by: Mike Clarke, Owner/President

HANTO + CLARKE GENERAL CONTRACTORS

1308 W. Nine Mile Road instagram.com/loxxstudios If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A faith-based salon that provides beauty services for hair, skin and nails. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients bring out the best in us. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? How our team and clients feel like a big family. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To expand our service offerings to better meet the needs and preferences of clients seeking spa-related services. Answers by: Ka Noel Delarosa, Owner/Operator

3601 N. Palafox St., hantoclarke.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We make construction an enjoyable experience for everyone. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The people. A client beaming while walking their finished building. A superintendent growing into a leader. A project team that genuinely enjoys working together. Construction is hard, and most people expect it to be painful. We enjoy getting to prove otherwise, every day, with people we care about. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Trust. It runs through our team, from the field to the office to our leaders. And we don't take lightly the trust our clients, design partners, subcontractors and community place in us to lead their projects. That trust is the measure of our success. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Growing

LOXX STUDIOS

NAI PENSACOLA

24 W. Chase St., naipensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are a full-service commercial real estate company specializing in sales, leasing and property management.

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SERVICES Who or what inspires you to be your best? The opportunity to create lasting value for our clients, strengthen the communities we serve and build trusted relationships through integrity, expertise and exceptional results. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Their unwavering commitment to each other and to our clients. They communicate openly, solve problems creatively and consistently go the extra mile. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To become the trusted first choice in every market we serve. We aim to grow with purpose by strengthening client relationships, expanding our market presence and delivering exceptional results. Answers by: DeeDee Davis, Owner/Broker

NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

5550 Heritage Oaks Drive, navyfederal.org If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving military members, veterans and their families through banking, lending and financial education. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our unwavering commitment to serving those who serve our nation. We help military members, veterans and their families build financial security and achieve their goals. Their resilience, sacrifice and trust motivate us to create meaningful impact in every community we serve. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The trust they place in us every day. Their dedication, resilience and commitment to their families, communities and our nation inspire us to fulfill our mission. It is a privilege to support their financial journeys and help them achieve their goals. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To build on our legacy of service by helping members achieve financial wellbeing through innovative solutions, trusted guidance and exceptional member experiences. As our membership grows, we remain focused on meeting evolving needs, strengthening relationships and delivering meaningful value to military members, veterans and their families. Answers by: Amber Southard, Corporate Communications

OLLI+IZZIE STYLE HOUSE

1565 Nantahala Beach Road olliizzie-style-house.square.site If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Great hair, friendly vibes and a relaxing atmosphere. Who or what inspires you to be your best? We have the best clients anyone could ask for, and we strive to make each and every one look and feel their best when they visit us. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Everyone brings a little bit of themselves when they come into the salon. Their unique personalities and lives. We get to celebrate and grieve with them, laugh and cry. This team and our clients fill my life with joy and purpose. August 20, 2026

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? This year we are celebrating five years of being in business, and my next big goal is to eventually expand and offer more services in the beauty industry. Answers by: Shannon Pope, Owner

PENSACOLA A/C & AUTO SERVICE CENTER

72 E. Nine Mile Road and 5868 McAllister Ave. pensacolaautosc.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Auto repair from people who care. Honest service, quality workmanship and treating every customer like family, every single day. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our customers. We believe auto repair is more than fixing vehicles. It's about helping parents get their kids to school, making sure families get to work safely and giving people peace of mind when they get behind the wheel. Earning that trust is our greatest responsibility and our greatest privilege. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team genuinely cares about one another and our customers. That culture is built through servant leadership, accountability and shared values. We're equally grateful for a community whose trust has allowed us to grow from one location to two in under three years. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? It's not simply to grow bigger. It's to build a business that lasts for generations by investing in our people, developing future leaders and continuing to earn our customers' trust every single day. If we do that well, growth will naturally follow. Answers by: Tonya and Brett McCabe, Co-Owners

RAE & CO ESTHETICS STUDIO

1308 W. Nine Mile Road tiffanyresthetics.glossgenius.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where results-driven skin care meets luxury selfcare, helping every client feel confident, radiant and comfortable in their own skin. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My faith, my daughters and the women who trust me with their skin. Knowing that confidence starts with feeling good in your own skin inspires me to keep growing, learning and showing up as my best every single day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The relationships. My clients aren't just appointments; they're real people who let me be part of their self-care and confidence journey, and life. Their trust means everything, and it's an honor to cheer them on through every season. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To expand our studio space, grow my team and continue bringing advanced, results-driven treatments to Pensacola. I'm focused on creating an elevated experience where even more people can feel confident, cared for and completely themselves. Answers by: Tiffany Miller, Licensed Esthetician/Owner 43

SERVICES RIPTIDE MEDIA

WINNER

BEST GREEN BUSINESS RUNNER-UP BEST HAIR SALON -PENSACOLA RUNNER-UP BEST HAIR COLORISTJACLYN GARCIA Scan to book

THANK YOU PENSACOLA FOR 17 WONDERFUL YEARS!

salonsancarlos.com

riptidemedia.net If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Elevating brands, listings and businesses through intentional visual storytelling. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My family pushes me to build something meaningful, and our clients trust us with moments that matter. That responsibility inspires our team to keep raising the standard with every project. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team genuinely cares about the finished product and about each other. The clients we serve challenge us to keep innovating, and many have become longterm partners and friends along the way. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're expanding beyond real estate into helping businesses build stronger brands through photo, video, strategy and long-term marketing partnerships while continuing to raise the bar for visual marketing on the Gulf Coast. Answers by: Jimmy Warr, Creative Director/Founder

SACRED GROUNDS TATTOO STUDIO

730 Bayfront Parkway, Ste. 3B sacredgroundstattoostudio.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? "I am proud to have carried on the oldest art in the world and tried to keep it decent." -Stoney St. Clair Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our friends, family and clients who have continuously not only stood in our circle, but in our corner as well. Thank you for choosing us as your artists; here's to many more years to come. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Everyone who has given us the opportunity to be a part of their lives and tattoo/pierce them. We couldn't be more proud of everyone who works here and continues to make art with us. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We would love to continue keeping good company of those who choose to get tattooed or pierced by us. We would love to take this time to say we are looking to expand and bring on a few more tattooers with a similar mindset and values. Answers by: Johnny Mumbles, just another guy who tattoos in Pensacola

SALON SAN CARLOS

528 W. Garden St., salonsancarlos.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where talented artists and valued guests collaborate to create beautiful hair and lasting memories. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our guests. Their trust challenges us to keep learning, improving and delivering an experience where everyone feels seen, heard, valued and confident. Our team inspires one another to grow both personally and professionally. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The trust 444 4

our guests place in us and the passion our team brings every day. Together, we create a welcoming environment where people feel valued, supported and confident to be themselves. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To develop the next generation of exceptional hair artists while elevating the guest experience. We're committed to creating a welcoming environment where every guest feels seen, heard and leaves with greater confidence through education, sustainability and inclusive hair care. Answers by: Carlos and Pam Garcia, Co-Owners

SIMONE SANDS WITH ENGEL & VÖLKERS

190 S. Jefferson St., simonesells.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? You bring your dreams—I'll bring my expertise. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Knowing how important a purchase and sale is to my client. This can be the biggest factor of wealth for a buyer or seller, both individually and generationally. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My assistant (Mischief) is the best of the best. She keeps things fun, keeps it real, thinks beyond the general task at hand and takes her work seriously. That girl can do anything. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Trying new creative things and working on my health. I was inspired by this from Jim Rohn: "Your overall success will rarely exceed your level of personal development." (And now I'm repeating inspirational quotes … who am I?) Answers by: Simone Sands, CRS, Real Estate Advisor

TAYLOR, WARREN, WEIDNER, HANCOCK & BARNES, P.A.

1700 W. Main St., Ste. 100, twwlawfirm.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? TWWH&B helps people in our community level the playing field by resolving insurance disputes and serious injury claims. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Two things: one, knowing that I am making a positive difference in my clients' lives, and two, seeing how dedicated my partners, associates and staff are to achieving the best results for our clients. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team's commitment to improving their skills as attorneys and legal professionals and their genuine concern for our clients' needs. Our clients' confidence and faith that our firm will do the very best we can to represent them at an extremely difficult time in their lives. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Giving back to and supporting our local community is very important to the firm. We are currently working on a new outreach project that will support our community and local charitable organizations that we hope to announce in the near future. Answers by: Stephanie A. Taylor, Attorney/Partner inweekly.net

August 20, 2026

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WEDDINGS

Original photo by Geoff Peck August 20, 2026

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WEDDINGS BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE Winner: Pensacola Beach Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor Marina Pensacola Picnic Co. River Woods Ranch Garden at The Farm BEST PLACE TO BUY AN ENGAGEMENT RING Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop Beasley Jewelers and Design Beré Jewelers Elebash's Jewelers BEST CEREMONY VENUE Winner: The Sanctuary Event Venue Pensacola Live Oak Pensacola Old Christ Church Supposey Warehouse & Gardens BEST RECEPTION VENUE Winner: Supposey Warehouse & Gardens 5eleven Palafox Hidden Oak Farm The Sanctuary Event Venue Pensacola BEST OFFICIANT Winner: Bryan Adams Madrina Ciano Lenaha Day Pam Rodgerson BEST BRIDAL STORE Winner: Dare Bridal Boutique The Bridal Suite

August 20, 2026

Nixon's Simply Elegant Couture Bridal BEST BRIDAL MAKEUP ARTIST Winner: Amanda Watkins (Luxe Beauty by Amanda) Kendall Frazee (Skin by Kendall Lyn) Hayley Gurney (Gulf Coast Glam House) Kendra Korn (Kendra K Beauty) BEST WEDDING HAIR SALON Winner: Sharp and the Swann Basis Salon The Powder Room Trends Salon & Spa BEST WEDDING HAIR STYLIST Winner: Chelsey Swann (Sharp and the Swann) Myka Chambers (Myka Abigail Hair Artist) Eleanor Edmonds (Basis Salon) Amanda Mendoza (Trends Salon & Spa)

BEST PHOTO BOOTH Winner: Phocus & Company One Shot Two Shot Rock Your Photo Booth Supposey's The Posey Bus

BEST WEDDING FLORIST Winner: Chrissy Floral Design Fete + Flora Events Fiore of Pensacola Florals by Mallori

BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY Winner: PV Cobia Photo + Video Aislinn Kate Weddings JD Cobb Films StoryLive Productions

BEST WEDDING RENTALS Winner: Sexton's Event Company Events Styled by LUXE Floral Tree Affairs WeddingWalls

BEST WEDDING BAND Winner: The Six Piece Suits Marvelous Strings Mr. Big and the Rhythm Sisters Stormfolk BEST WEDDING DJ Winner: DJ Phatchi & Co. AnyDayDJ dr0ne Southbay Event Group

BEST WEDDING PLANNING Winner: Supposey Fete + Flora Events Southern Frills Weddings & Events Weddings and Events by Jeff

BEST WEDDING CATERER Winner: Classic City Catering Culinary Productions, Inc. Greek's Catering and Events Nancy's Catering & Events

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY Winner: Aislinn Kate Weddings Phocus & Company PV Cobia Photo + Video Rae West Photography

BEST WEDDING CAKE Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery Betty Weber Cakes Kate's Cakes Moonbeam Bakery

BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING GIFT Winner: Artesana Celebrations The Florist duh for garden and home Rusted Arrow Mercantile BEST PLACE FOR A REHEARSAL DINNER Winner: Brother Fox Angelena's Ristorante Italiano The Grand Marlin Jackson's Steakhouse BEST PLACE FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS TO STAY Winner: Lily Hall Hilton Pensacola Beach Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel The Pensacola Beach Resort

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WEDDINGS BEACHPREACHER

beachpreacher.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Officiating weddings for amazing couples who want their wedding to be filled with memories and moments that truly reflect their love. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Every wedding, as I'm watching two best friends say a few words and exchange rings to unite their lives. Every story is unique. Every couple is special. I stay inspired to make the celebration truly unforgettable. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The trust the couple places in us to professionally be the ones "in charge" of their wedding memories. The feeling that they and their guests have about the wedding is the greatest honor to hold. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Just staying in touch with trends and the latest developments in the wedding industry is a lot each year as so much changes. But keeping the couple as the main focus and providing the best experiences will always remain the goal. Answers by: Reverend Bryan Adams

CHRISSY FLORAL DESIGN

1300 W. Garden St., chrissyflorals.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where your dream wedding flowers come to life.

August 20, 2026

Who or what inspires you to be your best? Honestly, it's our amazing local floral community. We all support each other, and seeing the incredible weddings that my peers create completely blows me away and pushes me to elevate my own craft every single day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The "Garden Street Girls" are what make our business thrive. We flow so well together and everyone brings their unique styles and strengths to the table. Whether we are climbing 20-foot ladders or lugging buckets on the beach in July, they are there to get it done with a smile. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To expand our sustainable sourcing by partnering with more local flower farmers, allowing us to bring even fresher, uniquely local blooms to our community while supporting our neighbors. Answers by: Chrissy Darling, Owner

CLASSIC CITY CATERING

692 E. Heinberg St., classiccitycatering.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Classic City Catering offers gourmet fullservice catering and does everything from BBQ to black tie. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients. For 37 years, we've been honored to be part of life's biggest celebrations. Their trust, along with our dedicated team and passion for

Southern hospitality, motivates us to continue creating memorable events with exceptional food and service. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We're grateful for a team that always goes the extra mile and for clients who continue to support us year after year. Their trust and loyalty mean everything to us. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're excited for this next chapter. We recently moved into a new location, partnered with First Class Bar to expand our services and are working toward opening a grab-and-go cafe and event space in the fall. Answers by: David Penniman, Owner

DJ PHATCHI & CO.

weddingwire.com/djphatchi If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Your day, your story, your soundtrack: a music service that is all about you. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Building genuine connections with my clients, creating unforgettable memories with their guests and knowing I exceeded their expectations. Seeing everyone celebrating in one place with laughter and dancing, while making lifelong memories, brings me joy and motivates me to give my all. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My team is my wife, and I appreciate her more than words

can express. She's always by my side, helping with setup and breakdown whenever I need an extra hand. Also, the vendor team at every event I've worked. It's not successful without us all working together. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To consistently provide exceptional services and ensure that the client's special day or event is truly unforgettable. Also, to continue to build relationships with other wedding/event vendors to create mutually beneficial partnerships. Answers by: Theresa Chi Hoang, DJ/Owner

PHOCUS & COMPANY

phocusonme.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Love, composed with intention. Pensacola's wedding photography, refined through 15 years of artistry and devotion. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The trust each couple places in us and the privilege of preserving a story that will outlive the wedding day. Their love pushes us to serve with intention, create with excellence and continually become better artists, storytellers and people. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Clients who care as much about the marriage as the wedding day. Witnessing the people they love, the traditions they treasure and the joy they share is an honor. Their warmth makes every

WEDDINGS celebration personal and reminds us what a privilege this work truly is. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continually refining our craft, challenging our perspective and discovering new ways to honor the beauty and meaning within every wedding. Growth keeps us inspired—encouraging us to see more thoughtfully, create more intentionally and become the best version of ourselves. Answers by: Tim Sewell, Founder

PV COBIA PHOTO + VIDEO

pvcobia.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We capture the beauty you planned and the moments you never saw. Who or what inspires you to be your best? We believe the best weddings happen when everyone feels cared for. Serving our couples, supporting our vendor teams and creating an experience that's uniquely tailored to each story is what inspires us every single wedding day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We genuinely enjoy working together. Open communication, trust and a willingness to learn from one another allow us to grow with every wedding. That teamwork creates a calm, seamless experience for our couples and the vendors we work alongside. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our next chapter is focused on intentional growth. We're expanding our team while remaining committed to the personalized experience, quality and genuine connection that have always defined our work. Answers by: PV Cobia, Owner/Main Photographer

SEXTON'S EVENT COMPANY

sextonseventcompany.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Curated wedding and event rentals delivered from a company and team willing to do whatever it takes to make each event special. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our children. We want them to grow up seeing their parents as hard workers that make a difference. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team is always there to support and execute our crazy ideas. We appreciate our clients for trusting us to make their special events as unique and amazing as they can be. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue offering new and exciting inventory and custom rentals. Answers by: Taylor and Madison Sexton, Owners

Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our clients. Creating wearable art that makes our guests feel beautiful and truly themselves is what motivates us. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? One of the many things we appreciate about our team is the heart they pour into every service and the way they make each guest feel. Technical skills can be taught, but a genuinely welcoming presence cannot. It's one of the many qualities we admire most in our stylists. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? While our future goals of expanding our team of stylists exist, staying true to our roots will always be our highest priority. At Sharp and the Swann, we're committed to remaining inclusive, accessible and welcoming as we continue to grow. Answers by: Whitney Sharp and Chelsey Swann, Co-Owners

SUPPOSEY

101 S. F St., supposey.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? An event atmosphere atelier, specializing in creating idyllic environments for weddings and large-scale community events. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Each couple's unique personalities and love story, artfully weaving their essence into every exquisite detail. The result is a wedding that is deeply personal, effortlessly luxurious and thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in an unforgettable celebration of two people promising forever. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I'm grateful for a team that shares our passion for exceptional celebrations and our commitment to serving couples in our community. Together, we create meaningful, elevated experiences that honor each love story with care, creativity and heartfelt hospitality. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our vision continues with the opening of the new Supposey Ballroom, a premier destination for events up to 1,000 guests. This expansive venue will offer elevated amenities, refined experiences and endless possibilities for bringing extraordinary celebrations to life. Answers by: Chloe Sexton, Owner

SHARP AND THE SWANN

801 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. A sharpandtheswann.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Enhancing the beauty that's already yours. 252 5

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Thank you BODACIOUS SHOPS WINNER: Best Cooking Classes BODACIOUS BOOKSTORE & CAFE RUNNER UP: Best Bookstore

BEST SPORTS EVENT WINNER Blue Wahoos Home Games RUNNER UP BEST PET-FRIENDLY EVENT Doggone Tuesday

5ELEVEN PALAFOX Runner Up: Best Reception Venue

STUDER

FAMILY OF COMPANIES

August 20, 2026

Runner Up: Best Boutique Hotel Runner Up: Best Place for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay

5Eleven • Blue Wahoos • Bodacious Shops • Bodacious Bookstore Bodacious Brew Thru • Bubba’s Sweet Spot • Oyster Bay • Studer Properties Submit your shout out: info@quintstuder.com 53

u! Thank Yo

WINNER BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN CUISINE & BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN DISH: KNUCKLE SANDWICH RUNNER UP BEST SALADS Tuesday-Saturday 11am-9pm • Sunday 10am-3pm

610 EAST WRIGHT ST PENSACOLA, FL

EOTLCAFE.COM (850) 429-0336

Voted Best Weekly Special Green Bucket Sundays and runner up Best Green Business, Best Grocery Store & Best Place to Buy Produce River Woods Ranch Garden at The Farm Runner Up Best Place to Propose

Voted Runner Up

Best Food Manufacturer @thefarmpcola • facebook.com/florabamafarmsofpensacola @theblackgarlicmarket • facebook.com/blackgarlic196

• 6404 Mobile Hwy. • 454 5

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R ETAIL

August 20, 2026

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R ETAIL BEST CAR DEALERSHIP Winner: Frontier Motors Inc. Anderson Subaru Pensacola Honda Sandy Sansing BEST BICYCLE SHOP Winner: Ride MORE Bicycles Bikes Plus CycleSports Bicycles Trek Bicycle Store Pensacola BEST BOUTIQUE Winner: SoBo Boutique Bluetique Gray Boutique Rusted Arrow Mercantile BEST APPAREL Winner: SoBo Boutique Aleuma Bluetique Don Alans BEST CHILDREN'S APPAREL & GIFTS Winner: Artesana Baby & Child Corals Closet Rusted Arrow Mercantile SoBo Boutique BEST ACCESSORIES Winner: Glassy Day Studio Bluetique The Heirloom Indie SoBo Boutique BEST THRIFT STORE Winner: Waterfront Thrift Store Goodwill Gulf Coast St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store Teen Challenge SuperThrift BEST ATHLETIC/OUTDOOR STORE Winner: Running Wild Fleet Feet Pensacola Half-Moon Outfitters Weatherford's BEST FURNITURE/ HOME DECOR STORE Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile

August 20, 2026

Alyssa's Etc. & Refinery duh for garden and home Rosie's Antique Emporium BEST ANTIQUES Winner: Rosie's Antique Emporium All About Antiques Blue Moon Antique Mall Oooodles Antiques BEST VINTAGE SHOP/SELLER Winner: West Side Vintage Cofounders Co. Lily's Vintage Finds Rocket To Saturn Vintage BEST MARKET/SHOPPING EVENT Winner: Palafox Market Garden Street Vintage Bazaar Pensacola Arts Market Pensacola Vintage Collective BEST MAKER/ARTISAN Winner: Erika Ceramics Blue House Curio Glassy Day Studio TVV art BEST PALAFOX MARKET VENDOR Winner: Jade Tree Succulents Disco Designs Nate Schweigert Pensacola Candle Company BEST GIFT SHOP Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile Artesana The "B" at Bailey's Noteworthy by Laurel Farrell

BEST TOY/COLLECTIBLE STORE Winner: Hyperspace Toys Area 51 Corals Closet Video Game Trading Post BEST NEW STORE Winner: West Side Vintage Cofounders Co. Monkee's of Pensacola Perfect Day Books BEST JEWELER Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop ALK Designs Beré Jewelers Elebash's Jewelers BEST SURF/SKATE SHOP Winner: Waterboyz Bear Walker Innerlight Surf Shop Maverick Board Riding Company BEST NURSERY/PLANTS Winner: Bailey's Produce & Nursery Jade Tree Succulents Native Plant Company Pensacola Seed & Garden BEST HARDWARE STORE Winner: Pensacola Hardware Hall's Hardware & Lumber Pensacola Habitat for Humanity ReStore Scenic Ace Hardware BEST COMPUTER/TECH STORE Winner: Palafox Computers Tech Advanced Computers

The Tech Handyman YourTEK Professionals BEST RECORD STORE Winner: Revolver Records Easy Going Records + Hifi Music Box Pensacola Remember Wynn Records BEST LIQUOR STORE Winner: Richey's East The Bottle Shop Fusion Fine Wine & Spirits Paradise Liquors BEST WINE SHOP Winner: A Curious Wine Shop The Bottle Shop The East Hill Bottle Shop Seville Quarter Wine & Gift Shoppe BEST GROCERY STORE Winner: Apple Market Bailey's Produce & Nursery Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe The Farm BEST PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE Winner: Bailey's Produce & Nursery Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe The Farm Palafox Market BEST INTERNATIONAL/ SPECIALTY FOOD SHOP Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli Four Winds International Market Merefa Tony's Asian Market

BEST BOOKSTORE Winner: The Idle Reader Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe Open Books Perfect Day Books BEST COMIC BOOK STORE Winner: Pensacola Pop Comics Area 51 Mr. Comics TBS Comics

R ETAIL A CURIOUS WINE SHOP

1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 221 acuriouswineshop.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Drink wine curiously. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The passionate people that care for the vineyards and guide the wines through fermentation. I want to do my part in telling their stories and sharing their wines within our community. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The people that become customers at A Curious Wine Shop are my favorite people. It attracts a group that is as interesting as the wines. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? One day at a time, slowly improving, and keeping the trust we have started to build. Answers by: Hilary Towns, Owner/Wine Educator

APPLE MARKET

1021 Scenic Highway applemarketpensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Your neighborhood grocery store. Who or what inspires you to be your best? A desire to serve others. What do you appreciate most about your team

and/or the people you serve? Our team shares that vision and desire to serve others. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue and improve our assortments and services for our community. Answers by: David A., Owner

ERIKA CERAMICS

1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 238, erikaceramics.co If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Thoughtfully made pottery for everyday use and the moments shared around it. Who or what inspires you to be your best? People who value craftsmanship and community. Those who choose to make things by hand, support local businesses and understand the care, time and story behind a handmade object. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I appreciate people who are willing to make space for creativity. Watching someone set aside the business of everyday life and connect with making something by hand is one of the most rewarding parts of what I get to do. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? In September, I'm opening Rooted, a gathering space by Erika Ceramics in East Hill's historic Sacred Heart Hospital. It will be home to hand-building workshops, private events and Erika Ceramics' pottery showroom. At its heart, Rooted is

meant to be a place where people gather and create together. Answers by: Erika Young, Owner

THE FARM

6404 Mobile Highway facebook.com/florabamafarmsofpensacola If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The original curbside on the West Side. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Just a simple tagline, really. Serve and be of service. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? There is an insane amount of hard work and dedication that goes into providing respect and dignity in food insecurity, and this crew, this community never gives up and surprises me at every turn. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Well, the cat is out of the bag. We teamed up with River Woods Ranch. Lots going with the garden space with food trucks and romantic things even, I hear. Hey, we turn 14 this year … it may be time for a few surprises. Answers by: Sandy Veilleux, Owner/Operator

GLASSY DAY STUDIO

glassydaystudio.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Jewelry shaped from recycled surfboard resin.

Who or what inspires you to be your best? It's so much more than jewelry. Ten percent of every sale supports our local foster community. "Even the winds and the waves obey him." -Matthew 8:27 What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I love every "Glassy Gal." They are generous, gracious and super stylish. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? There are many designs that I'd love to get out of my head and onto the bench. Hopefully, most of them will make a debut this year. Answers by: Erica Karr, Owner

THE IDLE READER

1449 W. Nine Mile Road, Unit 17 mrsjonescoldbrew.com/idle-reader If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The people's bookstore—cultivating collections for the curious. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Being a little part of my readers' big lives is my honor and joy. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My readers' resilience and voracious curiosity. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? More popups. Bringing more books to more readers. Answers by: Precious Murphy, Owner

Thank you for voting us Best of the Coast

NINE YEARS IN A ROW! Pensacola’s Best Computer/Tech Store

PALAFOXCOMPUTERS.COM 111 N. PALAFOX ST. • (850) 332-5350 —The Pink Building Filled With Over 7500 Square Feet Of Great Finds At Affordable Pricing—

Voted Winner Best Antiques

& Runner Up Best Furniture/Home Decor Store

Rosie’s Antique Emporium 3929 W. Navy Blvd. | (850) 455-1060 858 5

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R ETAIL JADE TREE SUCCULENTS

instagram.com/jadetreesucculents If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Jade Tree Succulents aims to inspire people to bring plants into their homes and build community connections through workshops. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Being a positive role model for my six-year-old daughter is incredibly important to me. I make it a priority to teach her the value of striving for excellence in everything she does. My customers also serve as a source of inspiration, motivating me to consistently deliver my best. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I am extremely grateful for the unwavering support from the community over the years, which has enabled me to pursue my passion. I'm also grateful for the relationships I have made along the way. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Cultivating more plants is at the very top of my list, closely followed by building meaningful community connections and sourcing my pots from local makers whenever possible. Answers by: Catherine Boswell, Owner

PALAFOX COMPUTERS

111 N. Palafox St., palafoxcomputers.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola's trusted partner for fast computer repairs, quality tech retail and friendly support that keeps your home and business running smoothly. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The pride of ownership: building something of your own, maintaining high standards and leading a team of technicians who share that dedication. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team's relentless drive to solve tough technical puzzles and the trust our Pensacola community places in us. There's nothing better than turning a stressful tech crisis into relief for a neighbor, and I'm incredibly proud of the crew that makes that happen every day. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're expanding into professional onsite house calls and growing our managed IT services to better support Pensacola's local businesses. Up next, we're launching our Best of the Coast campaign and delivering faster, more secure upgrades to keep our community's tech running at its absolute best. Answers by: Kyle Crawford, President

PENSACOLA POP COMICS

909 N. 12th Ave., pensacolapopcomics.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A decently curated selection of the world's finest books with pictures, with a fair share of drek too. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Ego, pride, peer pressure, fear of failure and public humiliation. All the good stuff. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? With so much competition for their time and money, I'm always August 20, 2026

appreciative of my customers who choose to spend both with me each and every week. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Keep on trucking. Answers by: Harley Orr, Proprietor

REVOLVER RECORDS

2050 N. 12th Ave. instagram.com/revolver_records If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A way of life since 1987. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The Original Gangsters that came before me. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Their loyalty (some of it decades-long), friendliness and dedication to keeping physical media alive. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To expand our staff, and our already amazing selection, all while keeping our prices the best in the industry. Our continuing goal is to set the standard others must follow. Answers by: Most O.G.ers call me Elvis (you can thank journalist Troy Moon for that)

RIDE MORE BICYCLES

59 E. Gregory St., ridemorebicycles.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Helping people "Ride MORE Bicycles" is more than a name; it's our mission, and we are proud to serve the people of Pensacola. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our customers. Some ride to improve their health, others to improve their performance, some will challenge themselves to go farther than they ever dreamed possible and some will use the bike to cut down on automobile traffic—but some of our favorites are just dropping training wheels. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team is deeply committed to sharing their knowledge and love of bicycles with all who show interest. Their ability to welcome the newbie while still understanding the demands and needs of a seasoned racer speaks to their level of experience while still remembering where we all came from. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Summer has us all running full speed and fairly road-focused, so we are eager to get back to the "shoulder season" when the weather is cooler and we have a bit more time to ride gravel and mountain bikes with our customers. Less talking, more riding. Answers by: Travis Coleman, Owner

RUNNING WILD

3012 E. Cervantes St., werunwild.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We connect, equip, encourage and inspire every person. Our experts help you find the perfect shoes for your next walk or run. Who or what inspires you to be your best? We believe everyone deserves the perfect fit. Our experienced team matches everyone with the right shoes, apparel and gear for their goals 59

R ETAIL and lifestyle. More than a running store, we're a trusted community resource dedicated to inspiring, supporting and helping people of all abilities live healthier lives. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Running Wild is proud of our dedicated team, whose passion for serving others makes our stores more than just a place to shop. We're incredibly grateful for the community that continues to support and connect with us. Together, we've built lasting relationships that inspire more active lives every day. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? It's a simple one: keep Pensacola moving. Through welcoming training programs for every pace and experience level, we help more people build healthy habits, reach new goals and discover the power of moving together as a community. Answers by: Dominick Zambrano, CEO/Owner

RUSTED ARROW MERCANTILE

130 S. Palafox St., rustedarrowmercantile.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Creating beauty and spreading kindness since 2017. A thoughtfully curated lifestyle shop filled with beautiful finds, unique gifts and inspiration for everyday life. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our customers. Seeing them walk through our doors and love what we've created pushes us to keep dreaming, designing inspiring displays and finding the best gifts, home decor and seasonal treasures to create a special experience both instore and online for our community. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team is an extension of our family. They pour their hearts into making everyone feel welcome. They are experts at curating incredible gifts, creating special events and adding magic to every detail. We're incredibly grateful to have the best team helping us create beauty and spread kindness every day. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? With the New Palafox Project nearing completion, we're excited to continue growing alongside our downtown community. We're looking forward to more events, collaborations, incredible gifts, seasonal decor and team growth, all while creating an inspiring place to gather, celebrate life's

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special moments and experience the best of downtown Pensacola. Answers by: Samantha Breedlove, Owner

WATERBOYZ

380 N. Ninth Ave., waterboyz.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Loyalty, rhythm, soul. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The up-and-coming generation of surfers and skaters inspire us to keep building a community they will thrive in. Closing in on 40 years of Waterboyz is another big push to keep chugging along. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? It's always the support our amazing community shows us year after year. Winning Best Surf and Skate Shop for over 10 years straight is something we're very proud of. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are thrilled to be a part of a few very exciting skate events in the community with new partners. Our annual events are always fun to share with the community as well. Answers by: Waverly Norris, Marketing and Events Manager

WEST SIDE VINTAGE

2729 W. Cervantes St. instagram.com/westsidevintage.850 If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola's best vintage clothing store, where style is curated, not replicated. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My partner in life, Alex Young. He helped me build this business from the ground up and has always supported my dreams. His belief in me and constant encouragement have played a huge role in West Side Vintage becoming what it is today. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Their dedication to West Side Vintage and to one another. West Side Vintage is a family built around more than clothing—it's about building something together and genuinely wanting each other to win. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continuing to grow West Side Vintage into more than a store—refining the experience, strengthening our vendor network and creating more opportunities for small businesses to thrive. Answers by: Lexi Angeles, Owner

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BARS, DR INKS + NIGHTLIFE

Original photo by Natalie Allgyer August 20, 2026

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BARS, DR INKS + NIGHTLIFE BEST BAR OVERALL Winner: Dorothy's Alga Beer Co. Betty's on Belmont Play

BEST DRINK SPECIALS Winner: Dorothy's The Florida Room Play The Roundup

BEST SIGNATURE DRINK Winner: Curse of the Poppy (Dorothy's) Chef George Martini (Pearl & Horn) King Koopa (Play) The Old Hickory (Old Hickory Whiskey Bar)

BEST PET-FRIENDLY BAR Winner: Perfect Plain Brewing Co. Alga Beer Co. Coastal County Brewing Wisteria Tavern

BEST NIGHT CLUB Winner: Seville Quarter Betty's on Belmont Dorothy's The Roundup

BEST DAY DRINKING Winner: Alga Beer Co. Garden & Grain Odd Colony Brewing Company Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST NA DRINK OPTIONS Winner: Pearl & Horn The Kennedy Odd Colony Brewing Company Union Public House

BEST BAR WITH A VIEW Winner: The Rooftop Calvert's in the Heights Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST BAR–DOWNTOWN Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company Dorothy's Intermission Play

BEST DRINK MENU Winner: The Florida Room Dorothy's Old Hickory Whiskey Bar Pearl & Horn

BEST BREWERY Winner: Alga Beer Co. Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse Odd Colony Brewing Company Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST BAR AMBIANCE Winner: Betty's on Belmont The Florida Room Sister Hen The Well

BEST DAIQUIRIS/ FROZEN DRINKS Winner: Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar The Florida Room Juan's Flying Burrito Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST SELECTION OF BEER ON TAP Winner: Alga Beer Co. 200 South Tap House Odd Colony Brewing Company Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST BAR–CORDOVA AREA Winner: Alga Beer Co. The Burrow East Hill Wine Bar Wisteria Tavern BEST BAR–NORTH PENSACOLA/ NINE MILE ROAD Winner: The Ticket Sports Bar Coastal County Brewing Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse Sammy Barker's

BEST BLOODY MARY Winner: Pensacola Crawfish Festival Five Sisters Blues Café Garden & Grain Native Cafe

BEST BAR STAFF Winner: Play Alga Beer Co. Dorothy's The Roundup

BEST BAR–WEST PENSACOLA/ PERDIDO KEY Winner: The Elbow Room Flora-Bama Gary's Brewery & Biergarten Perdido Key Sports Bar & Restaurant

BEST MIMOSA Winner: George Bistro + Bar Agapi Bistro + Garden Craft Gourmet Bakery Dorothy's

BEST BARTENDER Winner: Hunter Trudell (The Florida Room) Kelli Burch (Dorothy's) Daniel Davis (The Roundup) Kelly Soto-Medrano (Pearl & Horn)

BEST BAR–PENSACOLA BEACH Winner: Sneaky Tiki Bar Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar Paradise Bar & Grill The Sandshaker

BEST MARTINI Winner: The Kennedy Pearl & Horn Sister Hen Union Public House

BEST DJ Winner: dr0ne Brody DJ Jay-R DJ Salt

BEST BAR–MILTON/PACE Winner: Gulf Coast Garage Patio Bar Beardless Brewhaus The Country Gym The Oval Office Pub & Grill

BEST WINE MENU Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox Agapi Bistro + Garden Angelena's Ristorante Italiano East Hill Wine Bar

BEST DRAG PERFORMER Winner: Monica Heart Alexis Milian Andy Rodginous Chesley Polk

BEST NEW BAR Winner: Dorothy's Bar, Justa Bounce Beach Pensacola The Rooftop

BEST MARGARITA Winner: Garden & Grain The Burrow The Florida Room Juan's Flying Burrito

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Winner: Alga Beer Co. Betty's on Belmont The Burrow Wisteria Tavern

BEST BAR FOR GAMES Winner: Play Coastal County Brewing Dorothy's The Elbow Room BEST TRIVIA NIGHT Winner: Alga Beer Co. Coastal County Brewing Perfect Plain Brewing Co. The Roundup BEST KARAOKE NIGHT Winner: Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse Dorothy's Play The Roundup BEST PUB CRAWL/BAR EVENT Winner: Santa Pub Crawl (O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown) Oktoberfest (Alga Beer Co.) St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl (Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce) St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K Run (McGuire's Irish Pub) BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC Winner: The Handlebar Betty's on Belmont Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse Seville Quarter BEST BAR FOOD Winner: Steel Pony Diner (at Dorothy's) Brown Bagger (at Alga Beer Co.) The Burrow Pretty Baked (at Betty's on Belmont)

Stock Market Losses? Hire a lawyer who is a former Merril Lynch stock broker.

WINNER BEST BAR–WEST PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY

Runner Up Best Restaurant for a Birthday Dinner, Best Late-Night Eats, Best Soup & Best Bar for Games

11 East Romana Street | Pensacola, Fl 32502

genemitchell.org

August 20, 2026

Voted BEST DAIQURIS (again!) & Runner Up Best Bar–Pensacola Beach

400 QUIETWATER BEACH ROAD • BAMBOOWILLIES.COM

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BARS, DR INKS + NIGHTLIFE ALGA BEER CO. AND THE FLORIDA ROOM

2435 N. 12th Ave., algabeerco.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A neighborhood pub with lagers, ales and real nice folks. We also have a super rad MiamiVice-themed cocktail bar. Who or what inspires you to be your best? We owe it to the people who choose to spend their time and money here. We owe it to our staff that choose to work here. Mediocrity is for cowards, and we never want to be mediocre. We're always working towards something greater. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our staff's dedication and constant pursuit of beverage knowledge. Having customers that also appreciate the nerdy things we get to do makes the whole experience feel that much sweeter. Whether they're pouring your beer or mixing your cocktail, they know the ins and outs better than anyone. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? In the coming months, we hope to see our expansion into Crestview finally get off the ground. Other than that, we just want to drink beers with our buds, and keep these vibes insanely high. 'Preciate y'all. Answers by: Brett Reid, Co-Owner/ Creative Director

DOROTHY'S

309 S. Reus St., dorothyspensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where everyone is celebrated—just don't be wicked. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our community. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The team: their adaptability as a new bar. The people: their heart. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? As a new bar, our goal right now is simply to keep the doors open for the community that needs it. Answers by: Benny Haupt, General Manager

THE ELBOW ROOM

2213 W. Cervantes St. facebook.com/elbowroompensacola If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A respectful bar with a speakeasy atmosphere. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Star Trek, Cheers, The Golden Girls. Keeping the dream alive for the original owners, Jim and Maggie Flynn, and hoping to make the generations of customers proud. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team is a family. We enjoy each other. We appreciate our customers for sharing the love and respect of the establishment, which makes them our family too. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Live long and prosper. Answers by: Lesa Touchette, Operator August 20, 2026

THE HANDLEBAR

319 N. Tarragona St., thehandlebar850.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A music venue and community space for the underground scene. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Always trying to find the next big band we can look at a decade down the road and say, "Yeah, we believed in them first." What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Proud to still have the same core of employees since the reopen, and proud to still have so many regular show-goers who continue to support our business and the bands we bring to town. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue bringing more outdoor concerts to Maritime Park, Museum Plaza and other large spaces. Answers by: Robert Goodspeed, General Manager

ODD COLONY BREWING COMPANY AND THE BURROW 260 N. Palafox St. and 1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 111 oddcolony.com, theburrowpensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Scavenge, ferment, transcend. We are a hospitality company at heart. We believe that creating community spaces and connecting with our community transcends beer and food. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our team and our guests. They have supported us from the beginning and enable us to do what we love, which is pretty special. We hope to keep the fire stoked for them for years to come. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team just cares so much and they are all lovely humans. Virtually every single one of them could manage either of our locations. Our guests align with our vision and truly enjoy what we are creating. It's truly an honor. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? When an organic project or idea comes up, we dive in. We are strongly against forcing a new project because we feel like we have to grow. For the next year we are about to pour a lot more energy and love into OC. More on that soon. Answers by: Blake Foster, Co-Founder

PLAY

16 S. Palafox St., Second Floor iplaypensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Like your friend's basement if it had a liquor license, DJs, karaoke and music bingo. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Pure survival instinct. Between tropical storms, hurricanes, construction and never knowing what street the mayor will close next, we've become experts at adapting despite the challenge of staying everyone's favorite neighborhood bar—even when getting here occasionally feels like a scavenger hunt designed by City Hall. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our customers. If they can survive parking enforcement, inflation

and whatever obstacle course downtown throws at them this week just to visit us, that's loyalty. We appreciate them more than they'll ever know. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Honestly? Replacing the floor … again. Hoping the air conditioning survives another Florida summer. And after 16 years, if we can keep the doors open for our customers and staff, we'll call that a pretty successful next chapter. Answers by: The suckers who haven't moved on with their lives

SEVILLE QUARTER

130 E. Government St., sevillequarter.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The Gulf Coast's No. 1 entertainment and dining destination since 1967. Who or what inspires you to be your best? It comes from Bob Snow's original vision: create a special place where people come together for great music, great hospitality and good times. More than 58 years later, we're inspired to carry that tradition forward and create unforgettable Seville Quarter memories for the next generation. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our incredible "Good Time Gang" and the generations of loyal guests who have made Seville Quarter a Pensacola tradition. Our team brings the energy, personality and genuine Pensacola hospitality that make Seville special, and our guests give us the opportunity to create memories every day. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? It's simple: keep raising the bar. We want to improve every part of the Seville Quarter experience, from entertainment and food to service, atmosphere and hospitality. After nearly 60 years, we're still evolving, still improving and still committed to being the Gulf Coast's premier entertainment and dining destination. Answers by: Buck Mitchell, Marketing Director

SNEAKY TIKI BAR

17 Via de Luna Drive islandculturesneakytiki.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Hidden gem with a locals vibe, serving up tropical cocktails in a secluded setting with good times. Who or what inspires you to be your best? People make the place; we cultivate the best spot to make epic memories. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We have a close-knit team of rock stars who constantly impress guests with their character and enthusiasm for what we do. We couldn't ask for better a better team. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Sneaky Tiki becomes the first private tiki club on Pensacola Beach beginning Sept. 1. Our new members-only spot will also include a limited number of day passes for visitors and member guests. We're excited to present this new opportunity for the No. 1 tiki bar on Pensacola Beach. Answers by: JJ, Co-Owner 67

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Original photo courtesy of Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD August 20, 2026

R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD RESTAUR ANTS

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL Winner: Pearl & Horn Angelena's Ristorante Italiano George Bistro + Bar Restaurant IRON BEST RESTAURANT–DOWNTOWN Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Global Grill Restaurant IRON Union Public House BEST RESTAURANT–CORDOVA AREA Winner: George Bistro + Bar O'Brien's Bistro Sake Cafe Thai Street Food by Chef Eddy BEST RESTAURANT–EAST HILL Winner: The Burrow A Mano Panino East Hill Wine Bar Ozone Pizza Pub BEST RESTAURANT–NORTH PENSACOLA/NINE MILE ROAD Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse Petrella's Italian Cafe Tokyo Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar BEST RESTAURANT–WEST PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY Winner: Hub Stacey's at The Point Fisherman's Corner La Barra del Taco Salty Pearl Raw Bar

The Pointe Tacos Rock BEST RESTAURANT– PENSACOLA BEACH Winner: The Grand Marlin Drift Native Cafe Peg Leg Pete's BEST RESTAURANT–MILTON/PACE Winner: Blackwater Bistro 850 Barbecue Bar515 Brown Bagger BEST NEW RESTAURANT Winner: SalTerra Coastal Taqueria Bistrology Craft Gourmet Bakery & Cafe Prime & Beyond Wagyu Steakhouse BEST BAKERY Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery J's Bakery and Catering Milton Quality Bakery Moonbeam Bakery BEST BREAKFAST Winner: Aunt Katie's Buenos Dias Cafe Craft Gourmet Bakery & Cafe Native Cafe BEST BRUNCH Winner: George Bistro + Bar The Burrow Five Sisters Blues Café Steel Pony Diner

BEST RESTAURANT–EAST PENSACOLA HEIGHTS Winner: Agapi Bistro + Garden Calvert's in the Heights Craft Gourmet Bakery & Cafe New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST LUNCH Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas A Mano Panino SaBai on Jefferson VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST RESTAURANT–GULF BREEZE Winner: Cutie Patootie Charcuterie & Sweets Buenos Dias Cafe

BEST FOOD TRUCK Winner: Brown Bagger Cutie Patootie Charcuterie & Sweets Flour-ish Comfort Food Truck MI SU Street Food

BEST GREEK CUISINE Winner: Greek's Catering and Events Agapi Bistro + Garden Founaris Bros. Greek Restaurant Levant Mediterranean Grill BEST MEXICAN CUISINE Winner: SalTerra Coastal Taqueria Cactus Flower Cafe La Barra del Taco Taqueria El Asador BEST ITALIAN CUISINE Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Bonelli's Petrella's Italian Cafe Pizzaioli Italian Cuisine BEST CAJUN CUISINE Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill Cafe Nola Cub's Crawfish Restaurant NOLA BEST CHINESE CUISINE Winner: New Hong Kong House Chen's Kitchen Uncle Jiang Xian Noodle Place BEST JAPANESE CUISINE Winner: Sake Cafe Ichiban Kalbi Ichiban Tokyo Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar BEST THAI CUISINE Winner: SaBai on Jefferson Siam Thai Thai Rice Thai Street Food by Chef Eddy BEST INDIAN CUISINE Winner: Taste of India Dinner India Indian Grill Sree's Kitchen BEST VIETNAMESE CUISINE Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli Basil & Sprout

Pho Real Quickly BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN CUISINE Winner: End of the Line Cafe Pretty Baked SaBai on Jefferson Steel Pony Diner BEST SUSHI Winner: Sake Cafe Dharma Blue Ichiban Kalbi Ichiban BEST GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Jitterbug Beverage Co. Pearl & Horn BEST SEAFOOD Winner: Pearl & Horn The Fish House The Grand Marlin Peg Leg Pete's BEST STEAKHOUSE Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse Coach-N-Four Steakhouse The District: Seville Steak & Seafood McGuire's Irish Pub BEST BBQ Winner: Hot Spot Barbecue 850 Barbecue Five Sisters Blues Café VooDoo BBQ & Grill BEST SOUL FOOD Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café The Dwarf Chicken Stand Family Ty's Good Eats Hattie Marie's Cafe BEST ORIGINAL MENU Winner: Pearl & Horn Angelena's Ristorante Italiano The Burrow George Bistro + Bar

winner

BEST DELI runner up

Best Restaurant East Pensacola Heights 3001 E. Cervantes St. • 850-469-0029 • newyorkerdeliandpizzeria.com 070 7

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R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD BEST CHEF Winner: Ian Gillette (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano) Darian Hernandez (Brother Fox) Carolyn Ore (George Bistro + Bar) Amy Potmesil (The Burrow) BEST UP-AND-COMING CHEF Winner: Alex Caylor (SalTerra Coastal Taqueria) Jared Esmond (Restaurant IRON) Maddi Galvan (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano) Kim Payne (George Bistro + Bar) BEST WAIT STAFF Winner: George Bistro + Bar Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Brother Fox SaBai on Jefferson BEST SERVER Winner: Rinrawee Weerasrinara-Foster (SaBai on Jefferson) Maddie Myers (SaBai on Jefferson) Amanda Resmondo (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano) Winsome Thompson (George Bistro + Bar) BEST COFFEE SHOP Winner: Jitterbug Beverage Co. Fosko Coffee Barre Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee BEST BARISTA Winner: Precious Murphy (Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee) Scout Brannan (Jitterbug Beverage Co.) Mark Crutchfield (George Bistro + Bar) Kylie Williams (Alla Prima Coffee Roaster) BEST OUTDOOR DINING Winner: The Fish House Brother Fox The Burrow Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille BEST PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Winner: The Burrow Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille Lucy's in the Square Nolita's Parlor & Eatery BEST TAKEOUT/TO GO Winner: SaBai on Jefferson Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas MI SU Street Food VooDoo BBQ & Grill BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE Winner: Restaurant IRON Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Brother Fox Union Public House BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BIRTHDAY DINNER Winner: Union Public House Brother Fox August 20, 2026

The Elbow Room Pearl & Horn BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPORTS FANS Winner: Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant 200 South Tap House The Pointe Sammy Barker's BEST LATE-NIGHT EATS Winner: Steel Pony Diner The Elbow Room Graffiti Pizza McGuire's Irish Pub BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS Winner: The Fish House The Grand Marlin McGuire's Irish Pub Peg Leg Pete's BEST GONE-BUT-NOTFORGOTTEN RESTAURANT Winner: Kingfisher Hopkins Boarding House Nomadic Eats Sluggo's

FOOD

BEST UNIQUELY PENSACOLA DISH Winner: Grits à Ya Ya (The Fish House) Chicken & Dumplings (Restaurant IRON) Fried Red Snapper Collar (Pearl & Horn) Spanish Crab Melt (Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas) BEST CUP OF COFFEE Winner: Alla Prima Coffee Roaster Jitterbug Beverage Co. Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee BEST ESPRESSO DRINKS Winner: Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar Craft Gourmet Bakery George Bistro + Bar Jitterbug Beverage Co. BEST COLD BREW Winner: Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee Alla Prima Coffee Roaster Jitterbug Beverage Co. TAME Coffee BEST SPECIALTY/ SEASONAL LATTES Winner: Jitterbug Beverage Co. Good Day, Darling Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee Pretty Little Latte BEST ICED TEA Winner: Sweet Jackson Tea All About Boba Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas SaBai on Jefferson

BEST JUICES/SMOOTHIES Winner: Good Day, Darling AguaBerry Cafe Single Fin Sean's Smoothie Shack BEST PIZZA Winner: Flour-ish Comfort Food Truck Graffiti Pizza Lucky Dough Pizza Sky's Pizza Pie BEST STEAK Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse The District: Seville Steak & Seafood Pearl & Horn Restaurant IRON BEST BURRITO Winner: Juan's Flying Burrito Pen-Taco-la Tacos El Fluffy Taqueria El Asador BEST TACO Winner: Taqueria El Asador Taco Mex Tacos El Fluffy Tacos Rock BEST SOUP Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas The Elbow Room SaBai on Jefferson Steel Pony Diner BEST DELI Winner: New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria A Mano Panino Costello's Butcher Shop Cutie Patootie Charcuterie & Sweets BEST BREAD Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery A Mano Panino Emerald Coast Bread Company Local Thyme Bakery BEST SANDWICHES Winner: A Mano Panino Cutie Patootie Charcuterie & Sweets Hub Stacey's Steel Pony Diner BEST CHICKEN SALAD Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas Good Day, Darling Steel Pony Diner BEST BURGER Winner: MI SU Street Food Brown Bagger The Burrow Sauce Boss Burger Co. BEST APPETIZERS Winner: Pearl & Horn George Bistro + Bar Global Grill Union Public House 71

R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD BEST PASTRIES Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery Jitterbug Beverage Co. Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar Naree's Baked Goods

BEST FRIED CHICKEN Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café The Dwarf Chicken Stand Four Seasons Catering & Eatery McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST DESSERTS Winner: Naree's Baked Goods Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Craft Gourmet Bakery Flour-ish Comfort Food Truck

BEST BREAKFAST DISH/MENU ITEM Winner: Definitely Not A McGriddle (Craft Gourmet Bakery & Cafe) Biscuits & Sausage Gravy (Steel Pony Diner) Chilaquiles (Buenos Dias Cafe) OMGosh Bring Me Hoecakes (Aunt Katie's)

BEST WINGS Winner: MI SU Street Food Five Sisters Blues Café Hub Stacey's Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT/GELATO Winner: Lamonte Gelato Fannie Lou's Ice Cream Nolita's Parlor & Eatery Wild Honey Frozen Yogurt

BEST GRITS Winner: The Fish House Aunt Katie's Coffee Cup Restaurant George Bistro + Bar BEST DONUTS Winner: Parlor Doughnuts Lickin Good Donuts Más Que Dulces Milton Quality Bakery BEST FRIES Winner: MI SU Street Food The Burrow George Bistro + Bar Sauce Boss Burger Co.

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BEST OYSTERS Winner: Pearl & Horn The Fish House The Grand Marlin Peg Leg Pete's BEST SALADS Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas The Burrow End of the Line Cafe George Bistro + Bar BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN DISH Winner: Knuckle Sandwich (End of the Line Cafe) "Chicken Parmesan" (Agapi Bistro + Garden) Chickpea Sandwich (Chickpea House) Plant-Based Prego: Steak Sandwich (Steel Pony Diner)

BEST CAKES/CUPCAKES Winner: Moonbeam Bakery Craft Gourmet Bakery Kate's Cakes Naree's Baked Goods BEST COOKIES Winner: Kate's Cakes Itsa Cookie J's Bakery and Catering Nolita's Parlor & Eatery BEST LUNCH SPECIALS Winner: Sky's Pizza Pie Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas Four Seasons Catering & Eatery McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST WEEKLY SPECIAL Winner: Green Bucket Sundays (The Farm) Girl Dinner Wednesdays (The Burrow) Fajita Mondays (Mama's Tacos) Super Tuscan Tuesdays (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano) BEST COOKING CLASSES Winner: Bodacious Shops Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Jackson's Steakhouse Pensacola Cooks Commissary & Classroom BEST FOOD MANUFACTURER Winner: Whim Cotton Candy The Black Garlic Market The Hummus Lady The Sealey Sauce Company BEST BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER Winner: Big Jerk Soda Co. Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee Pensa-Cola Sweet Jackson Tea BEST MOBILE BEVERAGE BUSINESS Winner: Tap the Coast Pretty Little Latte TAME Coffee That Matcha Girl

inweekly.net

August 20, 2026

R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD AUNT KATIE'S

3102 E. Cervantes St. auntkatiesbreakfastnlunch.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Welcome to breakfast. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Family, crew and our amazing customers. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We are family. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continue to serve quality meals with great customer service. Answers by: Katie Scheuch, Co-Owner

BIG JERK SODA CO.

bigjerksoda.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Big Jerk crafts all-natural sodas with no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives right here in Pensacola. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our community of loyal customers and the small businesses who carry Big Jerk products. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We love the team that helps keep Big Jerk flowing on the Gulf Coast. Everyone at Big Jerk shares the same passion for beverage-making. Each member of the team works long, hard days with smiles on their faces. It's a pleasure to work with each of them. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We have something pretty awesome in the works. Can't say much about it now, but hopefully in early 2027 we will have a new location that will be more accessible to the public and more of a neighborhood hangout where you can enjoy Big Jerk and buy directly from us. Answers by: Ryan and Jennifer Eaton, Co-Founders/Owners

CARMEN'S LUNCH BAR & TAPAS

407 S. Palafox St., Unit B facebook.com/carmenslunchbar If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where good friends meet great food. Or, where everyone knows your name and your lunch order.

Who or what inspires you to be your best? For me, it's the product. I love sourcing recipe inspiration from the ingredients. Bailey's is a great place to seek fresh, seasonal produce. Once I made a Peruvian soup creation based on purple and gold produce, and another time I made a corn and zucchini chowder full of gold and green vegetables. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? How the Carmen's crew supports each other and holds each other accountable. Everyone works really hard. They all have integrity and expect the same from their teammates. We all need help or encouragement at times, and they always have each other's backs, mine included. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? I would love for us to have some evening wine tasting events or popup dinners. I'm entertaining the idea of doing a simple yet elevated pre-fixed soup, salad and dessert dinner, including higher-end proteins and a specialty bread. What Carmen's does best, with a little extra elegance and candlelight. Answers by: MariCarmen Josephs, Chef/Owner

CRAFT GOURMET BAKERY AND CRAFT GOURMET BAKERY & CAFE

5555-H N. Davis Highway and 615 Scenic Highway craftgourmetbakery.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? An eclectic group of bakers, makers, food lovers and hospitality professionals set out to make everyone's day a little bit sweeter. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My mom has always been a huge source of inspiration for me—she puts her fullest effort into anything she does. My wife and baby girl keep me going on a daily basis. The legacy I hope to leave behind is my big-picture inspiration. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The ability to grow and scale as a small business is largely contributed to our amazing staff; I can't thank them enough for showing up every day to invest in this dream that's come to life and continuing to make this a place people want to visit regularly. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We've really achieved so many of our goals the last few years.

Now is the time to ensure our goals can last. We've grown beautifully, but now it's time to fine-tune that growth into something that can withstand the test of time. Answers by: Chef Jordan and Anna Hewes, Owners

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? It's almost time for our fall menu into the holiday season, so we're looking ahead for unique and seasonal flavors to create new dishes. Answers by: Chef Carolyn Ore, Chef de Cuisine

CUTIE PATOOTIE CHARCUTERIE & SWEETS

GREAT SOUTHERN RESTAURANTS

1713 Woodlawn Way cutiepatootiecharcuterie.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are an artisanal deli specializing in fresh, local ingredients and imported cheeses. Who or what inspires you to be your best? To be a Northern deli in the South. We want the community to have a place where they can get the best sandwich they've ever had and be served by real people who will remember their name. That, to us, is what a real deli is. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We've been able to assemble a team of actual chefs who truly care about the work they're doing and get to interact directly with customers while unleashing our creativity in a way few delis are doing. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are actively working on a brick and mortar storefront in downtown Pensacola (secret is out). Answers by: Jesse Hollett, Head Chef/Owner

GEORGE BISTRO + BAR

6205 N. Ninth Ave. georgebistroandbar.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Hospitality from start to finish, for an unforgettable dining experience. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My team. My personal goal is to set a standard for them to follow in order to achieve the best quality and consistency possible. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We have a really great Pensacola community, and it's such a pleasure to bring great dining experiences to them. I especially love any time a guest shares their excitement and obsession about their favorite dishes and drinks.

600 S. Barracks St. greatsouthernrestaurants.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Each of our restaurants has its own distinct personality, and they all share one purpose: bringing people together to celebrate, connect and create lasting memories. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The people of Pensacola. Our guests, our team members and our community. Their loyalty, passion and support motivates us to keep evolving while staying true to the hospitality and quality that have defined us for decades. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The relationships we have built over the years, including our team members who grow with us and guests who celebrate life's everyday moments (as well as their biggest moments) at our tables. Those connections are incredibly important. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continually elevating the guest experience through a myriad of culinary offerings coupled with Great Southern hospitality, while remaining true to the values that have made Great Southern Restaurants a Pensacola favorite for decades. Answers by: Maria V. Goldberg, Director of Marketing and Events

JITTERBUG BEVERAGE CO.

2050 N. 12th Ave., drinkjitterbug.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Coffee and gluten-free baked goods from your neighborhood living room. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Seeing people enjoy our creations, especially for the first time. The celiac and gluten-intolerant folks who find a cafe they can depend on. The queer and neurodivergent community choosing us as a gathering place. Working alongside our amazing staff.

Thank you for voting us Best BBQ 14 consecutive years!

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R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our staff's passion for hospitality and making people feel welcome is amazing. As a dietary and social safe space, we value their ability to take care of our precious community. Speaking of whom, we have our guests to thank for filling the space with such good energy and joy. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're hoping to find a way to facilitate more creativityfocused gatherings for those looking for a neighborhood third place. Answers by: Ariel Booth and Barrett Colhoun, Co-Founders

KATE'S CAKES

instagram.com/katescakes_pensacola If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Your Pensacola go-to for custom cakes and sugar cookies to elevate any event. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Seeing the growth within my work through the years. I've done so many new things in the last year I'm so proud of, all while raising my kids and making travel a priority in my personal life. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Pensacola has welcomed me for so many years into their events. I've built a long-standing relationships with so many amazing clients. It's so cool to start with a bridal shower and continue to their kids' birthdays year after year. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continuing to serve the Pensacola area and challenge myself with some new techniques. Answers by: Kate Jones, Owner

LAMONTE GELATO AND A MANO PANINO

1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 128 and 133 lamontegelato.com, amanopanino.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? An authentic Italian experience in your own backyards. Who or what inspires you to be your best? We are so fortunate to own our business with our life and business partner. Together we are able to push each other daily and always hold each other accountable. It is inspiring to be able to grow our future together every day. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We are so grateful to have an incredible staff and guests. It is because of the hard work of our team every day that we are able to create such great memories for everyone that comes in our doors. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are working towards an Italian dinner concept to complete our trifecta. Stay tuned. Answers by: Ashley and Alex Lamonte, Owners/Operators

MOONBEAM BAKERY

moonbeambakes.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? August 20, 2026

Bespoke vintage cakes and pastries, focusing on flavor as well as aesthetics. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Other bakers, artists and creatives in general. I spend a lot of time learning from other bakers and artists to continue to grow my own skills. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My customers' support. I have customers who travel to me from all over the 850 area to get a cake. It truly means so much to me. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? I just bought a food truck. I am working on setting it up as my own private baking studio; new things coming soon. Answers by: Jayme Arnold, Owner/Baker

MRS. JONES COLD BREW COFFEE

1449 W. Nine Mile Road, Unit 17 mrsjonescoldbrew.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? All cold brew, all the time. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Lately, by the stories of my grandmothers whose hard work and determination influenced and inspired my journey into business. They built a legacy of love and sheer grit in a world that pushed them to the margins. I'm pushing back just like they did. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My team is the sweetest and kindest group of humans ever. Our reviews always reflect an appreciation of the epic customer service they provide—purposeful nosiness with customer experience as the primary focus. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To elevate cold brew beyond expectations. With that in mind, we plan to release more cold brew products and spread cold brew love as far as we are able. Answers by: Stephanie Jones, Founder

NAREE'S BAKED GOODS

nareesbakedgoods.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Handcrafted desserts made from scratch with passion, love and care that you should try at least once in your life. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My friends and family inspire me to do my best and to keep going, along with the new customers I get to serve every day. They are always supporting my journey in any way they can and it helps me continue to have passion in what I do. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Their trust in my work and their loyalty when they return. It brings me the most joy to have someone continuously support my business over and over. It shows that I made an impact in their life, even just with desserts. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To take it full-time. I would love to serve my homemade desserts everywhere to everyone all the time.

WINNER:

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BIRTHDAY DINNER RUNNER UP: BEST RESTAURANT–DOWNTOWN BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE

BEST APPETIZERS BEST MARTINI BEST NA DRINK OPTIONS

UNIONPENSACOLA.COM

36 E. GARDEN ST. | 850.607.6320 75

R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD I would love to one day open a small cafe with unique drinks and baked goods. Answers by: Naree Vanness, Owner

NEW YORKER DELI & PIZZERIA

3001 E. Cervantes St. newyorkerdeliandpizzeria.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Great food and great service. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The love of fresh food and new and creative ideas. We love people and we love feeding them meals that put a smile on their face. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team is outstanding, hardworking and strives to always give their best. The people we are fortunate to serve keep us working for excellence. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To continue learning, growing and creating exceptional meals and great memories. Answers by: Wayne and Renee Nix, Owners

PEARL & HORN

1504 W. Intendencia St., pearlandhorn.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where the land meets the sea and memories are made. Who or what inspires you to be your best? I strive to be my best in order to give a memorable experience to each of our guests and also to provide a great working environment for our staff. I'm also inspired by Chef George and Luba. Their hard work and determination inspires me to uphold their standards. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? My entire team works hard, shows up every day and gives it their best. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're looking ahead to the fall, and especially the holiday season, as a time to create those extra special moments for the guests. Our chefs and bar team work hard to create special dishes and cocktails, and we're always excited to share them with the guests. Answers by: Michelle Dees, General Manager

RESTAURANT IRON

22 N. Palafox St., restaurantiron.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Refined Southern kitchen. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our guests motivate us. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our people are passionate about creating a memorable dining experience for our guests. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Finding a way to grow our concept so more people can enjoy an IRON experience. Answers by: Nathan Delaware, General Manager 676 7

SABAI ON JEFFERSON

130 S. Jefferson St., sabaionjefferson.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Escape the ordinary with authentic Thai cuisine, thoughtful hospitality and an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and reconnect. Who or what inspires you to be your best? The guests who choose to dine with us. Earning their trust and being honored as Best Thai for several consecutive years reminds us that every meal is an opportunity to exceed expectations and create an experience worthy of their loyalty. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We love our small, close-knit team. We work together like family, supporting one another with a shared passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. We're equally grateful for guests who seek authentic Thai cuisine and value the elevated hospitality that makes every visit feel special. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our next focus is introducing more people to our downtown Pensacola location while also expanding SaBai Catering. I'm also growing my private chef services, bringing authentic Thai cuisine and personalized dining experiences directly into guests' homes for unforgettable occasions. Answers by: Naphapron "Pam" VanNess, Chef/Owner

SALTERRA COASTAL TAQUERIA

19 S. Palafox St., salterrapensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Coastal Mexican cuisine inspired by the Yucatan Peninsula, Oaxaca and Baja. Built around handmade tortillas, quality ingredients, fresh seafood and genuine hospitality. Who or what inspires you to be your best? It has always come from the people around us—our team, our guests and the communities we've discovered while searching for something else. They've reminded us that great food isn't just about what's on the plate; it's about creating spaces that bring out the best in people. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? The first thing that comes to mind is how quickly the team has come together. It takes every skill set and personality to make a restaurant like SalTerra work. When the dining room fills and the organized chaos kicks in, our crew comes alive—and our guests can feel it. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're thoughtfully growing the SalTerra experience by introducing lunch, expanding our outdoor patio for music, football parties, special events and creating a relaxed, first-come, first-served space where guests can enjoy SalTerra whenever the mood strikes. Answers by: Nathan Holler, Co-Owner

SKY'S PIZZA PIE

5559 N. Davis Highway, skyspizzapie.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Authentic N.Y.-style pizza. inweekly.net

R ESTAUR ANTS + FOOD Who or what inspires you to be your best? My staff keeps me going for sure, and how much they love their job. But throughout the years, my dad is my biggest fan. Sometimes when it's all too much, his pride keeps me going. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I appreciate my team so much. We sometimes have the toughest, hottest, longest days and they all still show up. My staff feels a part of the businesses success and I can't ask for more. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are doing a little bit of change to the menu. Adding pasta and some new pizza specials. Answers by: Sarah Noble, Owner

TAP THE COAST

tapthecoast.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Tap the Coast raises the bar one celebration at a time through award-winning mobile bar experiences and exceptional hospitality across the Gulf Coast. Who or what inspires you to be your best? My mentors who've supported me, my hardworking team, our loyal clients, fellow small business owners who celebrate one another's success and most importantly, my daughter. I want her to know she can do hard things, dream boldly and never feel she has to play small. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? I'm endlessly grateful for our team, who gives their all at events—through blazing heat, pouring rain and everything in between. We're honored to be part of milestone moments in our clients' lives—from weddings and birthdays to grand openings, celebrations of life and ringing the bell after cancer treatment. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? As we celebrate seven years in business, we're focused on expanding innovative beverage experiences, investing in our team, growing our classes, adding new retail offerings and working toward a dedicated home that will raise the bar for how people connect and celebrate together. Answers by: Dannon Byrd, Owner

UNION PUBLIC HOUSE

36 E. Garden St., unionpensacola.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A place where the community comes together for great food, drink and conversation. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our staff and guests. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Ever heard that song "The Best" by Bonnie Tyler? What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Cool li'l breakfast/lunch/event space in 2027. Follow @honeybear_pensacola on Instagram for upcoming teasers. Answers by: Blake Rushing, Chef/Owner

August 20, 2026

VOODOO BBQ

1741 E. Nine Mile Road, Unit 9, voodoobbq.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Authentic Louisiana BBQ, bold Cajun flavors and Southern hospitality served with heart. Who or what inspires you to be your best? Our family, our faith and the opportunity to serve others. Whether we're feeding a family, catering a celebration or supporting our community, we strive to honor God through excellence, genuine hospitality and food that brings people together. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? Our team is the heart of everything we do, and our guests are the reason we do it. We appreciate the trust they place in us and the relationships we've built through great food, genuine hospitality and serving our community like family. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're focused on growing our catering business, introducing exciting new menu options—including starters, Bayou Bowls and specialty sandwiches—and launching our new menu boards. Every step is designed to create an even better guest experience while serving more of our Pensacola community. Answers by: Rick and Sylvana West, Owners

WHIM COTTON CANDY

whimcottoncandy.com If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The sweetest cart experience along the Gulf Coast. Who or what inspires you to be your best? All of our fellow business owners who know both the struggles and the triumphs of making a living as an entrepreneur. What do you appreciate most about your team and/or the people you serve? We would not have gotten to this point without our amazing team and their unbelievable support. Also, to everyone who has ever supported us and helped us along this journey: thank you. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are in the middle of adding even more services, experiences and ways to make any event even sweeter. Answers by: Ryan Seeley, Co-Owner

WINNER:

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••••Dream. Inspire. Remember.••••

Visit Your

NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION Museum • More than 150 beautifully restored aircraft • Hangar Bay One with an expanded Apollo Space exhibit, Marine One helicopter and F/A-18 Hornet • Giant 4K Screen Digital Theater, cafe’, simulators, museum store and more!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: • Access to the museum is through the West Gate on Blue Angel Pkwy. • A REAL ID or valid passport is required for base access • A clear bag policy is in effect.

See free Blue Angels practices most Tuesday and Wednesdays. Scan the QR code for all the details and premium seating options.

NavalAviationMuseum.org

August 20, 2026

FREE ADMISSION

a&e happenings date is "Lincoln" on Sunday, Aug. 23. Details available at pensacolasaenger.com.

AQUA SPA PRESENTS EPICUTIS EDUCATION NIGHT This complimentary

experience includes samples, food and drinks, raffles and more 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 at Laguna's Tiki Hut, 460 Pensacola Beach Blvd.

DRAG-LESQUE Show is 9

p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com. Photo Courtesy of Saenger Theatre

NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS

COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER This free event provides resources, tips and advice for every stage of the parenting journey. Giveaways and information available. Event is 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at Florida Blue, 1680 Airport Blvd.

ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Animal

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. 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.

ARTS & CULTURE

GALLERY NIGHT The next Gallery Night is

5-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 in downtown Pensacola. This month's theme is Rusty Knuckle Torque Club Car Show. Details available at gallerynightpensacola.org.

SAENGER THEATRE SUMMER MOVIE SERIES The historic Saenger Theatre has

announced the lineup for the summer movie series. Its theme is "The Sound and the Story: Five Decades of Steven Spielberg and John Williams." Screenings are 3 p.m. at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Tickets are $7 per person. Full concessions are available at each screening. Last 080 8

CHILDREN'S BOOK FAIR AT OPEN BOOKS Event is

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 and Sunday, Aug. 23 at Open Books, 1040 N. Guillemard St. Visit facebook.com/openbooksbookstore for details.

DOUGHNUT ECONOMICS: ACHIEVING AN ECONOMY BUILT ON WELL-BEING

Join 350 Pensacola and Healthy Gulf for a discussion of the question "How can we create an economy where everyone can thrive while respecting the ecological boundaries of the planet?" The talk is 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24 at West Florida Public Library, 239 N. Spring St.

READ PENSACOLA BOOK CLUB The next book club discussion is about "The Ballad of Falling Dragons" by Sarah A. Parker 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25 at Café Single Fin, 380 N. Ninth Ave. For more information, visit instagram.com/readpensacola.

ROAD TO REVOLUTION EXHIBIT AT PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF HISTORY "Road to

Revolution: Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the American War for Independence" highlights how Pensacola helped shape the outcome of the American Revolution. Developed in partnership with America250, the exhibit explores how a Gulf Coast port played a pivotal role in a global conflict. The exhibit is on display through May 2027. The museum is located at 330 S. Jefferson St. For more information about the UWF Historic Trust, visit historicpensacola.org.

THE ART OF ANIMATION Pensacola Museum of Art exhibit featuring illustrations from the Gerald and Vicki Adcox collection. On view through Sept. 6. Visit the museum at 407 S. Jefferson St. Find more details and museum hours at pensacolamuseum.org. HUMANISTS OF WEST FLORIDA MONTHLY MEETING The Humanists of West Florida

meet at the Ever'man Education Center, 351 W. Garden St. 10:15 a.m. every second Sunday of the month. For more information, visit facebook.com/ humanistsofwestflorida.

WEST GARDEN DISTRICT ARTISAN MARKET Shop local vendors and artisans 1-6

p.m. Fridays at Del Mar Plaza, 1617 W. Garden

St. For more information, contact info@ubpensacola.com.

TALK TO THE MOON COMEDY CLUB OPEN MIC Weekly comedy open mic is 7 p.m.

Wednesdays at Mathison Brewing Co., 500 E. Heinberg St. Signup starts at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Adam Bowles and Russell Douglas. Details available at talktothemooncomedyclub.com.

FIRST FRIDAY AT BLUE MORNING GALLERY Visit Blue Morning Gallery, 21 S.

Palafox St., 5:30 p.m. every first Friday of the month for a reception with wine, live music and occasional artist demonstrations. Visit bluemorninggallery.com for details.

MOVIE NIGHTS AT MUGS & JUGS Mugs

& Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway, hosts monthly movie nights. Watch their website for dates and movie announcements at mugsjugsbar.com. All movies are screened 9 p.m. on select Saturdays.

CLUB 27 COMEDY SHOW Visit Lili Marlene's at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. on the first and third Sundays of the month for a night of comedy. Doors open at 6 p.m. show starts at 7 p.m. Visit sevillequarter.com for details. PENSACOLA HERITAGE FOUNDATION LECTURES Learn Pensacola and Northwest

Florida history through interesting, informal lectures every other Tuesday at The Wright Place, 80 E. Wright St. Doors open at 11 a.m., and lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. The lecture starts at noon and lasts one hour. Lecture cost is $5 for nonmembers and is free to members. Lunches are $12. For reservations, call (850) 380-7759.

PENSACOLA CINEMA ART FILM SCREENINGS Pensacola Cinema Art will screen films

select weekends during the summer season at 220 W. Garden St. Tickets are $10, and payment is cash only. Visit pensacolacinemaart.com for their complete schedule.

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 stand-up comedy in open mic style 7 p.m. Mondays at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Follow BTB Comedy on Facebook for updates. SCRIPTEASERS Join writers at Pensacola Little

Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St., for Scripteasers every second Saturday of the month. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for details.

PALAFOX MARKET Palafox Market is 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. SUNDAY MARKET ON PALAFOX Rain-orshine market is Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Located in downtown Pensacola, between

Chase and Gregory Streets in the MLK Plaza. Market features handmade crafts, art, baked goods, international cuisine and fresh produce. Visit smopalafox.com for details.

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 Pen-

sacola'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 Para-

normal 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.

LIVE MUSIC

BANDS ON THE BEACH The weekly concert

series takes place 7-9 p.m. every Tuesday through Oct. 27 at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. Free to attend. Upcoming dates: Mass Kunfuzion on Aug. 25 and Not Quite Fab on Sept. 1. For more information, call the SRIA at (850) 932-2257 or go to visitpensacolabeach.com for the latest updates.

LIVE MUSIC AT FIVE SISTERS BLUES CAFÉ

Enjoy live music Thursdays through Sundays at Five Sisters, 421 W. Belmont St. Upcoming dates: The Glenn Parker Band 6-10 p.m. Saturdays; Curt Bol Quintet 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays; and John Wheeler 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays.

GRAVE CHORUS Show is 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com.

ALL YOUR FRIENDS: INDIE DANCE PARTY Show is 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com.

VINCE GILL: 50 YEARS FROM HOME TOUR

Show is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets available at pensacolasaenger.com.

OUTTA POCKET Show is 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com. inweekly.net

a&e happenings SAVE FERRIS Show is 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com. EMAROSA Show is 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com. FOXTIDE Show is 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com. LADY FEST Show is 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at

The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com.

OPEN MIC AT ALGA BEER CO. Country Club

is hosted by Brett Patterson of Snake and the Rabbit every Monday night. Sign-ups start at 6 p.m. and music starts at 6:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Visit facebook.com/algabeerco for more details.

Medical Society present free concerts on the first Wednesday of the month in the cafeteria of Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola, 5151 N. Ninth Ave. from 1:30-3:30 p.m. For more information, visit jazzpensacola.com.

MONDAY NIGHT BLUES AT SEVILLE QUARTER The Blues Society of Northwest

ROSIE O'GRADY'S DUELING PIANO SHOW Watch the famous dueling piano show 8

Florida brings blues to Florida 7 p.m. Mondays at Lili Marlene's in Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Food and drink specials start at 8 p.m. Details are at sevillequarter.com.

PENSACOLA PICK NIGHT AT ODD COLONY Music pickers of all levels are invited to play

28 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets available at vinylmusichall.com.

7-9 p.m. every last Monday of the month at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Bring your acoustic instrument and jam. Visit facebook.com/oddcolony for details.

BLOODRAVE Show is 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29

LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY AT THE DISTRICT

ELECTRIC FEELS Show is 9:30 p.m. Friday, Aug.

at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com.

IT'S A 2000S PARTY: PENSACOLA Show is 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets available at vinylmusichall.com. STAND BACK Show is 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Details and tickets available at thehandlebar850.com.

August 20, 2026

Enjoy music and fine dining at The District: Seville Steak & Seafood, 123 E. Government St., every Tuesday through Thursday starting at 6 p.m. The regular weekly schedule is Tuesday Night Jazz with Love Brynnevere, Wednesdays with Platinum Bones and Thursdays Dan Lovelock on the piano. There is also live music on Fridays and Saturdays during happy hour starting at 4 p.m. Visit facebook.com/districtsteaks for details and updates.

MUSIC RX: JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED Jazz Pensacola and Escambia County

p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at Rosie O' Grady's at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Doors open at 7 p.m.

NOCHE TROPICAL: LATIN NIGHT AT SEVILLE QUARTER Presented by Latin

Flavor Entertainment every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Phineas Phogg's in Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Visit sevillequarter.com for more information.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT GARY'S BREWERY

Open mic night is hosted by Renee Amelia 6 p.m. every other Wednesday at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. Visit facebook.com/garysbrew for details.

VIBE IRIE REGGAE: LIVE IN THE COURTYARD Enjoy Vibe Irie Reggae band 4-10 p.m. Sundays at the End O' the Alley Courtyard at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St.

LIVE MUSIC AT CALVERT'S Listen to live music 5-8 p.m. Sundays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. Visit facebook.com/calvertsintheheights for details.

FOOD + DRINKS

CULTURES COOK: AUTHENTIC INDIAN

Cooking class is 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Tickets are $70 and available at pensacolacooks.com.

MIDDAY MURDER MYSTERY Event is 2:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $48 and available at Eventbrite. PAELLA AND PALMERAS Cooking class is 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Tickets are $70 and available at pensacolacooks.com. O'RILEY'S IRISH PUB BARTENDER CHAMPIONSHIP The ninth annual championship is 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23 at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Attendees can sample cocktails made by each bartender, who will be crafting drinks with a secret ingredient chosen by O'Riley's. Judges will select their favorite cocktail and attendees will get to vote for their favorite. Attendee tickets are $25 and available at orileyspub.com/bartender-championship.

CANNING AND PRESERVING WITH CHEF BOB Class is 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave., Ste. C. Tickets available at pensacolacooks.com. for more listings visit inweekly.net

free will astrology WEEK OF AUGUST 20 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Consider this

your official alert that you're close to getting too much of a good thing. To safeguard the lovely momentum you've built lately, be vigilant that genuine abundance doesn't bloat into plain old overload. Say no to becoming indentured to your own brilliant ideas. Don't let your victories drag you into depletion. Steer clear of grand gestures of generosity that are driven mostly by the urge to dazzle onlookers. You really can keep every delicious reward you've earned, dear Aries, as long as you begin installing some graceful new boundaries right now.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): In 1925,

Taurus astronomer Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin (1900-1979) discovered that stars are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. Famous astrophysicists of that era rejected her conclusions because she contradicted the prevailing theories. Nevertheless, she persisted in her claims and was eventually proved correct by other experts. Sound familiar, Taurus? If it doesn't yet, I expect it will soon. Naysayers may insist you're wrong when you know and I know you're right. My advice: be faithful to the truths you've directly observed even if they don't match consensus reality. Your understandings are valid even if they're inconvenient.

Don't let your victories drag you into depletion. GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): You're ready and able to commune intimately with the hidden source of power that fuels your life. Hallelujah! But first, acknowledge a humbling truth: you're not entirely sure what that source is. You've made assumptions, of course. You've told yourself stories about where your vitality comes from: your work, your relationships, your creative projects, your spiritual practices. And while these channels do transmit energy, they're tributaries of the ultimate spring. In the coming weeks, you'll have exciting opportunities to trace these streams back to their headwaters. Start this way: be alert for mini-breakthroughs

By Rob Brezsny

when you feel unexpectedly energized or mysteriously restored.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): The GPS system requires Einstein's theory of relativity to work correctly. Satellites in orbit experience time slightly differently than we do on Earth's surface. Without accounting for that time dilation, your phone would be off by 6.8 miles every day. Moral of the story: the practical requires the theoretical and the mundane needs the cosmic. I bring this to your attention as a useful metaphor, Cancerian. I suspect you've been trying to solve ground-level problems with ground-level thinking. But your current challenges require you to factor in some relativity: to recognize that different parts of your life are operating in different timeframes, under different rules. What works in one context doesn't necessarily work in another. In the coming weeks, refrain from trying to apply universal solutions. Calibrate for context. LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): In traditional tex-

tile making, the selvage is the strong edge that holds the fabric together and keeps it from unraveling. It's braided more tightly than the rest so it can do its guarding work. I think that's a helpful metaphor for your life in the coming weeks, Leo. Your main weave is pretty gorgeous, but the edges aren't sufficiently taut. What should you do, practically speaking? For starters, create firm boundaries around your work time, your rest and your availability to others' demands.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): I am nursing a hopeful dream that you will give yourself a fun surprise or two in the coming days—maybe even more than two. Not necessarily the most expensive delights, but those that would inspire your nervous system to relax and your spirit to celebrate. Possible options: a few hours of free time with no obligations, a hike where you adore and praise the sky, a conversation you've been craving, a daring yes or a long-overdue no. Or how about finally starting a fun project you keep postponing, or setting down a burden you've been carrying for too long? You might ask yourself: "If someone who loved me dearly were in charge of my rhythm, what would they arrange for me?" LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): The first maps of Antarctica contained blank spaces labeled sim-

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ply "unexplored." Cartographers didn't pretend to know what wasn't yet revealed. This was a gift to future trailblazers, who didn't have to overcome the confusion of false certainties. You could benefit from adopting a similar practice. Instead of explaining every mystery with confident opinions, designate a few regions of your inner world as magnificently unexplored. Your willingness to say "I don't know yet" will be a fertile form of wisdom. The unanswered questions will be better allies than premature conclusions.

Don't overestimate your independence or underestimate your importance. SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): In architec-

ture, the keystone is the central, wedge-shaped stone positioned at the top of an arch. It's often the last piece placed, and it's what holds everything together. If it's removed, the entire structure collapses. But the keystone itself is held in place by the pressure of the other stones. I love the fact that it's both the most crucial piece and yet totally dependent on everything else. This is an excellent metaphor for you right now. You're like a keystone: holding everything together and also being held by everything. Please accept my personal thanks for accomplishing the amazing feat of being both powerful and vulnerable! The structure needs you, and you need the structure. PS: Don't overestimate your independence or underestimate your importance.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): Don't reorganize your junk drawers anytime soon, Sagittarius. Please? Refrain from scrubbing the oven, organizing your kitchen cupboards and untangling old extension cords. I'm begging you to believe me when I urge to allocate your energy toward the most interesting and important matters. The cosmic indicators are unambiguous. You will be happiest and most successful if you: 1. dare to access secret wisdom you've been hiding from yourself; 2. immerse yourself in almost too much beauty and truth; 3. let your imagination run wild as you visualize future scenarios that thrill you even if they're also a bit unnerving.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): The

Grand Canyon in Arizona is 277 miles long, as wide as 18 miles, and a mile deep in some places. Through persistent erosion for millions of years, the Colorado River carved it. This massive creative project happened entirely through subtraction, not addition. I suggest you regard it as one of your role models in the coming months, Capricorn. Your goal is to wear away resistance and eliminate what's unnecessary. The magnificence you produce will be very gradual and incremental.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): In engineering, redundancy refers to the practice of building multiple layers of support into a system so that if one part falters, others keep functioning. Airplanes and spacecraft rely on this principle for safety. I urge you to adopt a similar strategy in the coming weeks. By creating backup plans or additional reinforcement, you can move forward with more daring and flair, which I highly recommend. Artful preparation will strengthen your ability to experiment and improvise. PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): The ocean

has different layers. Each has its own temperature, pressure and ecosystem. Many sea creatures are adapted to one specific stratum and don't wander far from their chosen realm. But there are transition zones where the layers meet, and they're often rich in biodiversity. I propose that we use these areas as metaphors for your power spots, Pisces. You tend to thrive in thresholds and boundaries, where edges meet and overlap. That will be especially true in the coming weeks. To court good fortune and sweet delight, you should hang out at the borders where diverse influences mingle. HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: Upon waking for the next seven mornings, sing a song that fills you with feisty hope. {in}

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news of the weird

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

TOXIC TEAMMATE A teenager in Maumelle, Arkansas, played with a rather toxic teammate during a recent high school football practice. According to an Aug. 12 report from WBAL-TV 11, after playing for about an hour, the student brought his helmet to his coach, explaining that it felt "unusual." Upon examination, a venomous cottonmouth snake was found hiding behind the padding. They called animal control, who had to submerge the helmet in water to get the snake out. "I've removed a snake out of a car vent, in the engine, purses, backpacks—in a helmet? Never," Chris Davis, director of Maumelle Animal Services, said, adding that a bite could have been fatal. [WBAL-TV 11, 8/12/26]

ing a hatchet and a machete, respectively, during an altercation in a Publix parking lot in Panama City, Florida, The Smoking Gun reported on Aug. 7. According to the police report, Gay admitted to parking next to Krichbaum and approaching his vehicle for a confrontation over "prior issues." During the dispute, Krichbaum brandished a hatchet "in an attempt to deter" Gay. In response, Gay went back to his vehicle, pulled out a machete and struck Krichbaum in the face with it. By the time police arrived, they say each man had injuries on his hands, and Krichbaum sustained further injuries after Gay struck him unconscious. The pair were treated at a local hospital before being taken into custody. [The Smoking Gun, 8/7/26]

FEATHERY FIRE ALARM A family in Fort Bend County, Texas, credits their pet goose with saving their barn after it caught on fire. KHOU-11 reported that in the early morning hours of Aug. 4, Bert Gerber was asleep on his couch when he was awakened by a series of loud honks—sounds the family hadn't heard before from the 4-month-old aptly named Goosey. Security camera footage showed that their barn was on fire. "I just casually came outside and I saw a fire billowing out of there," he said. Gerber used a water hose to put the fire out quickly, and none of the animals in the barn were injured. [KHOU 11, 8/8/26]

STATUE LIBERATED Greg Gatwood of San Francisco was doing yard work when he came across what he thought was a small stone slab. But as he dug, he discovered the object was actually a 2-foot-wide, 150-pound statue, NBC Bay Area reported on Aug. 10. His partner, artist Judy Gittelsohn, consulted with local experts and is working to determine if the statue is the work of renowned San Francisco sculptor Ralph Stackpole, who died in 1973, or perhaps one of his students. The couple's house is located near what used to be the sculpture department of the California School of Fine Arts—now known as the San Francisco Art Institute—where Stackpole taught. [NBC Bay Area, 8/10/26]

PLOT TWIST Jennifer McFadden, the owner of Booklegger, a bookstore in Eureka, California, received a surprising note from an anonymous author, UPI reported on Aug. 6. The apology letter was accompanied by a book, "The Unstrung Harp" by Edward Gorey, and $100. In the note, the author explained they recently found the book in a box in their garage and confessed to having stolen the book from the store about 40 years ago. "I was so happy to find that the store was still in business so I could return the book and tell you how sorry I am for my utter lack of principles," the note said, and asked the store to get in touch if there was "anything further I might do to right this wrong." [UPI, 8/6/26] CRIME REPORT A Shake Shack employee is charged with aggravated assault, kidnapping and armed robbery after robbing the store where he worked, Yahoo! News reported on Aug. 12. According to the Maricopa County Deputy Attorney's complaint, Keondre Simmons, 33, of Arizona, pointed a gun at two employees, demanded $2,800 in cash from the store safe and locked them in the store's cooler. The employees' description of the robber matched Simmons, and he was arrested days later when investigators who were surveilling Simmons watched him leave his apartment wearing his Shake Shack uniform and return to the store for his shift. A representative from Shake Shack confirmed that Simmons' employment has been terminated and that the company prioritizes the safety of their customers and employees. Simmons is currently in custody on a $100,000 bond. [Yahoo! News, 8/12/2026] •Everette Krichbaum, 52, and James Gay, 35, are charged with aggravated battery after wield-

THAT'LL STOP TRAFFIC Rush hour traffic was shut down for two hours in Washington, D.C., on the morning of Aug. 12 after a suspicious device with exposed wires—which turned out to be an adult toy—was reported outside a fire station, WUSA9 reported. A witness said they saw someone place a suspicious package in a trash can near the station in a northwest D.C. neighborhood, and police say that the person who threw the item away approached someone at the firehouse before tossing the contraband. When police arrived, they closed local streets for nearly two hours while they investigated. Eventually the item was determined to be an "electronic sex portable pump device," according to the police report. Police cleared the scene and traffic resumed around 9 a.m. [WUSA9, 08/12/26] VANISHING GOATS A pair of pygmy goats boarded a bus in Portland, Oregon, during the busy Tuesday morning commute, Oregon Live reported on Aug. 12. Security footage shows them leaving the bus after being shooed out by passengers, then wandering into a nearby shopping center, but police were unable to locate them when they arrived on the scene. "So where did they come from? Where were they going? Did they have valid fare?" The Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon said in a social media post. "Some questions may never be answered." [Oregon Live, 8/12/26] {in}

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com August 20, 2026

Independent News | August 20, 2026 | inweekly.net