Inweeky Jan. 28 2021 Issue

RISING STARS 2021

Independent News | January 28, 2021 | Volume 22 | Number 4 | Photos by Greg Riegler

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winners & losers

outtakes

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5

news 6

Go where you're celebrated, not where you're tolerated.

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rising stars 2021

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publisher Rick Outzen

graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk

contact us info@inweekly.net

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Jeremy Morrison, C.S. Satterwhite

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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. © 2018 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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winners & losers

Bill Hamilton / Pensacola State College

winners BILL HAMILTON Pensacola State College's

athletic director has announced his retirement. While serving in the dual role of baseball coach and athletic director, Hamilton led the PSC Pirates baseball team to its first-ever state championship in 2004. During that championship season, the baseball team finished sixth in the JUCO World Series and earned the coveted Thomas Howard Sportsmanship Trophy. Hamilton also was named the FCCAA Coach of the Year, NJCAA Region VIII Coach of the Year and the ABCA/ Diamond Regional Coach of the Year for the NJCAA Division I. His overall record was 703 wins and 468 losses, making him the all-time PSC career leader in wins. Hamilton's official retirement date is March 31; his replacement will be named later.

ODD COLONY BREWING COMPANY

The local brewery recently released a special beer called "Black is Beautiful." The brew was an international collaboration with over 1,200 breweries participating across the globe as they collectively attempted to bring awareness to injustices many people of color face every day. With the funds raised from the Black is Beautiful beer, an imperial stout with coffee and vanilla bean, they chose to donate to the local NAACP chapter and the John Sunday Society.

ESCAMBIA COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT Its high school graduation rate for the 20192020 school year was 86.5%. The rate increased by 1.7% from the previous year and has climbed 10.4% from the 2015-2016 school year. This is the 12th consecutive year that the district's graduation rate has increased. West Florida High School of Advanced Technology had the highest graduation rate of 99.1%.

Escambia High School improved the most among district high schools with an increase of 5.5%. Graduation rates increased from the previous year at Northview, Pine Forest, Tate and Booker T. Washington high schools.

NAVAL AIR STATION WHITING FIELD

The home of Training Air Wing Five has been named the recipient of the 2021 Installation Excellence Award. The award lauds the top Navy commands at shore for their installation management, program excellence and community outreach.

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losers BAY COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY

The organization's executive committee passed a resolution refusing to accept Joe Biden as president unless Donald Trump concedes and acknowledges that the 2020 election was fair. The group will refer to Biden's administration as "Presidentimposed" and has encouraged Bay County Republican officials to not cooperate with a White House that it has labeled "illegitimate." Meanwhile, the sale of tin-foil hats has increased in Panama City.

BRIAN KOLFAGE While Trump par-

doned his former Chief Strategist Steve Bannon, Kolfage and Bannon's other two co-defendants in an alleged wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy weren't as lucky. Kolfage, an Air Force veteran living in Miramar Beach, is charged with improperly transferring $1 million from his nonprofit organization, We Build the Wall, to a California-based nonprofit group headed

by Bannon. The indictment also alleged Kolfage received $350,000 in donations to We Build the Wall, which he used in part to purchase two luxury sport-utility vehicles and a high-end fishing boat. Kolfage has pleaded not guilty, as did Bannon.

TRUMP RIOTERS On the eve of Biden's

inauguration, several of those arrested for storming the U.S. Capitol were holding out hope that Trump would use his last hours in office to grant the rioters a full and complete pardon. The Associated Press reported the rioters contended their argument was compelling—they went to the Capitol to support Trump, and now that they are facing charges carrying up to 20 years in prison, it's time for Trump to support them. It's also time the rioters get accustomed to disappointment.

STIMULUS CHECKS Doxo, the mobile bill pay service, recently released a report that revealed that most Americans (59%) plan to use their $600 stimulus check to pay household bills. According to the report data, residents in the greater Pensacola area pay out $900 on everyday household bills per month, excluding rent or mortgage. Locals may be able to cover one month of utilities and a car note with their checks. Maybe. inweekly.net

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

Practicing Since 1974 INJURED? (ALL TYPES OF ACCIDENTS)

A NEW DAY A remarkable moment happened this month. Escambia County School Superintendent Dr. Tim Smith joined with the school board to invite the district's facility and staff, parents and the community to formulate a strategic plan for Escambia County School District's future.

For the past 12 years, Smith's predecessor, Malcolm Thomas, did his strategic plans with little or no input from teachers and the public. The unspoken motto of Thomas' tenure was, "It's Malcolm's way or the highway."

Millions were spent on Thomas' initiatives that he touted as innovative that later disappeared after they failed. Four months into his first year in office, Superintendent Thomas announced that he was starting over at Warrington Middle School and would make it the best middle school in the state.

Unfortunately, the school became one of the worst, and an outside company had to be hired to try to turn it around.

His attempt to make Workman Middle an International Baccalaureate school that would lure students away from private and parochial schools also failed.

In 2010, Montclair Elementary was an "A" school, and Thomas received a Race to the Top grant to make it a model for teachers throughout the district. Within two years, the school received a failing grade.

In August 2015, with his election for a third year a year away, Thomas announced his "bold initiative"—Vision 2020. There was no input from the community. He told teachers that he would give every student a Chromebook, reinvent the classroom and provide more hands-on learning experiences. When he unveiled his Vision 2020 strategic plan, the district had 12 "A" schools and only seven "D" or "F" schools.

The 2017-18 school year ended with only eight "A" schools and 14 "D" schools.

Top-down visions and strategic plans repeatedly failed in the Thomas era. Superintendent Smith wants to change that approach.

"My vision for the district is a launching spot," Smith said during a virtual community brief held on Jan. 14. "Through a

process of strategic planning, a vision will be shaped, fine-tuned and finalized based on district and community feedback."

His vision includes increasing student proficiency rates of learning, closing the achievement gap between African American students and white students and being as united as we possibly can be as a community for all students.

The theme for the planning initiative is "Celebrating Our Past, Designing Our Future, Together."

The initiative will be a joint effort designed to listen to, engage with and gain insights from internal stakeholders and citizens across Escambia County. The desired result is to create a mission and vision statement for the district and identify areas of focus needed to help realize that new vision for our schools' future.

The process will have four steps. First, the district will hold dialogue sessions with a cross-section of teachers and staff to hear and listen to shared ideas and aspirations. An ECSDwide online survey will be set up for all district employees to provide an opportunity for all employees to share their thoughts. In April, a cross-section of community leaders and partners will be brought together to share their perspectives. The last step involves an online portal for staff and the community to access information and updates about the initiative.

The research team from Pensacolabased idgroup, who ECSD has engaged to facilitate the four-step process, will analyze all of the input collected.

"No one knows this district, its students or its community better than those who are a part of this great district and this outstanding community," said Dr. Smith. "As we grapple with the real challenges ahead, we must also focus our sights on the future."

He added, "Our goal is for every student to successfully learn in a safe, positive and supportive environment; for every student to graduate; and for every student to become a helpful, productive citizen."

Amen. {in} rick@inweekly.net

Top-down visions and strategic plans repeatedly failed in the Thomas era.

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ANNUAL SURVEY: BULLISH WITH A CAVEAT

By Rick Outzen According to the 2020 Quality of Life survey, locals are still bullish on both Pensacola and Escambia County's leadership and our economy, especially when compared to the survey results from 2010. However, participants' views of local race relations with law enforcement and the criminal justices weren't as favorable.

Quint Studer unveiled the 2020 Quality of Life survey at a virtual CivicCon event on Tuesday, Jan. 19. He and his wife, Rishy, have funded the annual poll conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research since 2008.

After dealing with several politicians who claimed in the media that they had insights into public opinion on issues such as the Community Maritime Park, Studer wanted a more objective measurement of residents' attitudes toward the local economy, government and quality of life issues.

Over the years, the data has helped public discussion on several topics, including infrastructure, public education and Pensacola's waterfront, making CivicCon the perfect forum to present the most recent survey. A joint venture between the News Journal and Studer, CivicCon began as a platform for experts on urban planning, education, roads and other topics to share best practices. The program has also evolved to be a stage for local politicians to provide updates.

Studer was encouraged that several areas of the survey have shown improvement over the years. While some may wish the gains were more remarkable, he warned that a community could improve too quickly.

"Jim Collins, in his book 'Good to Great,' said that if you move real quick up, you can go really down quickly, and he calls it the 'Hedgehog Concept,'" said Studer at the CivicCon event. "It's a methodical movement in the direction you want to move. The beauty is that you hold the gain."

He added, "We don't want to be a oneand-done city. We want to sustain and hold our gains all the time."

UPBEAT ATTITUDES

The Quality of Life survey showed many of the same trends as the 2019 poll when compared to the results from 10 years ago. The people who believe Pensacola and Escambia County are heading in the right direction jumped from the mid-40s in 2010 to 64% and 63%, respectively, in 2020.

While only 35% had a positive rating of Escambia County's economy, the positives were 16 points higher than the 2010 survey.

The drop in those concerned about their job security was similar, from two-thirds worried in 2010 to only half in 2020. The increase in those who believe the city and county successfully addressed new challenges and attracted economic opportunity and job growth rose 23 points and 15 points, respectively.

Looking at the increased faith in our economy and job security, Studer said, "I thought this was just amazing, which shows that people are very confident in our economy in Escambia County. We want to get better, but we also have to learn to enjoy the progress we're making. If you don't enjoy the progress being made, you get worn out."

The view on Escambia County's overall quality of life jumped nine points, from 57% in 2010 to 66% last year. Those who were optimistic about a shared vision and effective plans for economic development and job growth jumped 10 points in the county, from 47% in 2010 to 57% in 2020, and 20 points in the city, 46%-66%.

Respondents were more positive about Escambia County being a good place for recent graduates (up 13 points), single, young people (up 16 points) and entrepreneurs (up 12 points). The only demographic group thought to be worse off was those living below the poverty line—35% in 2010 to only 18% in 2020.

In 2010, the Community Maritime Park had yet to be completed. However, resi-

dents had faith in the waterfront development's effectiveness in improving economic opportunity, with 65% believing the downtown stadium would be either very or somewhat effective. Ten years later, 76% say the growth of Pensacola's waterfront, including the park and baseball stadium, has improved the city's economy.

For the first time, the survey included a question on how local government should prioritize public funding to help economic growth. Nearly half, 47%, felt the county and city should prioritize new businesses, while 31% believed funds should support local businesses, and 16% said neither should be funded.

ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

According to Studer, Mason-Dixon had said our community has "really turned the dial up," but the pollsters warned that "we're hitting our plateau unless we address race relations."

For the first time, the survey covered race relations. Of the results, Studer said, "People of color don't feel near as positive about our community. It's one of the barriers that is going to keep us from really maximizing all this great data."

"So unless we can deal with the racial challenges, issues and opportunities, we're going to plateau." Quint Studer He continued, "People of color don't feel we're moving in the right direction, as strongly as others. They're not thrilled with the overall quality of life. So unless we can deal with the racial challenges, issues and opportunities, we're going to plateau."

The survey revealed that 82% of the Black community believed that systematic racism exists in Escambia County as opposed to only 53% of white citizens.

"The definition of systematic racism is

the form of racism that's embedded as a normal practice within a society or an organization," said Studer. "Our Studer Family of Companies have hired V. Vincent Brown, an expert on helping your business hold up the mirror to where bias might get in the way."

Brown will present at CivicCon this spring, and Studer offered to see if he could meet with city and county officials when in Pensacola.

The survey also revealed that Black citizens saw few positives in the relationship with the Pensacola Police (16%) and Escambia County Sheriff's Office (12%).

While over half of the county's white citizens believed the criminal justice system treats Black and white people equally, only 18% of the Black community felt that way.

Calling the race relations statistics "pretty powerful," Studer shared, "It was pretty sobering when I saw this data ‌ like that wet rag that hits you on the face all of a sudden. Sometimes when things are a pain, our human nature is to push it away."

He admitted that when he shared the data with some friends, they downplayed it as a challenge that every city faces. Studer said, "Does that mean we can accept it?

Does that mean we should let it hold us back from getting much better? Again, why don't we be the place that solves it? Why don't we be the place that comes with the solution?"

He suggested we could be the place, 20 years from now, that when people write about the community that grabbed race relations and changed not only their city but America, Escambia County and Pensacola would be mentioned.

"When he looked at greatness and researched it for his book 'Good to Great,' James Collins said you have to create big, hairy, audacious goals because that stretches us," said Studer. "I think we can stretch and solve this challenge, but it's not going to be easy." {in} The 2020 Quality of Survey can be found on the Pensacola Young Professional's website, pensacolayp.com.

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LIVING THE DREAM Despite a raging pandemic, a difficult hurricane recovery and simmering political unrest, Living the Dream Pensacola held its annual awards event online on Martin Luther King Jr. Day with WEAR-TV's Sue Straughn as emcee.

"We're grateful for our dedicated sponsors like Troy and Ashley Rafferty, Quint and Rishy Studer, and so many others for making this online program possible," said County Commissioner Lumon May, who co-founded the event with Quint Studer seven years ago.

"More than ever, Living the Dream bears great significance for our community, and we are pleased that we were able, once again, to honor such a distinguished group of community leaders," said May. Quint Studer echoed the commissioner's sentiment, "We have to get together and never stop. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. never stopped, nor can we ever stop. We have a chance to carry his legacy because the only legacy a person leaves behind is the people that they teach. And as we know, Martin Luther King Jr. was a master teacher."

The 2021 Living the Dream honorees included SYSA Coach Raymond Palmer, Harold Dawson, Sena Maddison, Fred Gant, Michelle Grier-Hall, Lisa Savage, Donna Curry, Jesse and Dannie Sangfield, Walker Wilson and Mike Papantonio.

Attorney Troy Rafferty, a presenting sponsor with his wife Ashley, congratulated all of the honorees.

"They've all lived, not just this year, not over the last year, but all their lives seeking equal justice for all, regardless of race, to try and better our community, to try and bring communities together," said Rafferty, who also gave a shout out to SYSA. "The Southern Youth Sports Association does so much for the youth in our community," said the attorney. "The Bible, the book, the ball and the balance are not just words. They're the motto of SYSA. The work they do at SYSA is critically important to our community."

Coach Palmer expressed his surprise at being an honoree.

"What a time to win anything with the

name of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. associated with it, especially in today's times with all the riots and injustice that's going on in the world," said Palmer. "I couldn't be more proud or think of a better time to receive this award."

Sena Maddison talked about the importance of giving people hope and her belief that small acts matter. She told how a photo of Congressman Andy Kim, a first-generation son of Korean immigrants, went viral.

"When those horrible people wreaked havoc on the American Capitol and dishonored all we believe in, Rep. Kim got down on his knees with a dustpan and cleaned up," Maddison said. "He said, 'Democracy, to me, is the place of opportunity that is affording me a chance to do something extraordinary.'

Great words for this day."

Attorney Mike Papantonio was awarded the 2021 H. K. Matthews Legacy Award. He talked about the importance of teaching our children about the history of the civil rights movement.

"One of the most tangible threats to developing a community that can be defined by a high quality of justice is when we forget what it took for us to get even this far on that road towards living in a just world," said Papantonio. "We run the risk of losing this journey to justice."

A BUG'S LIFE Seven weeks after Inweekly reported someone may have bugged the conference room adjacent to Escambia County Administrator Janice Gilley's office, the newspaper received the Florida Department of Law Enforcement's investigative report.

On Aug. 7, FDLE found a Vivitar Versa Magnetic Camera inside a fake plant in the conference room. The camera was turned on and appeared to be recording when it was located. However, the camera's micro SD card was empty. No other such devices were located during the K9 sweep.

According to the report, the camera is sold at Wal Mart stores (appearing to be exclusively online) and connects wirelessly to a phone or device when it is recording. After a review of the Vivitar Versa camera, FDLE

placed it back in the fake plant to attempt to capture someone retrieving the camera.

An in-depth electronic sweep was also conducted by a team, and no further suspicious devices were found. On Sept. 15, FDLE Special Agent Stephanie Cassidy and ESD K-9 Maple performed another search, and no suspicious electronics were located.

The State Attorney's Office subpoenaed Wal Mart regarding online orders of Vivitar Versa cameras in Florida. On Sept. 29, SA Cassidy received the subpoena results from Walmart. Three Florida customers were listed as purchasing Vivitar Versa cameras online between Feb. 1, 2020, and Aug. 1, 2020. No customer was linked to the undisclosed business or any of its employees. FDLE ended the report with "no further action is necessary."

GAETZ IN OR OUT Last week, News

Service of Florida reporter Jim Turner mentioned in his weekly column that Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-Fort Walton Beach) might run for a statewide post.

Responding to a Sun Sentinel report that his name was being tossed around as a potential Republican primary challenger to U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, Gaetz tweeted, "I have no interest in running against Marco Rubio for the U.S. Senate. In 2022, the only statewide position I would consider running for in the current political climate is Commissioner of Agriculture. But things can change! (Not the Senate thing, though)."

Locally, GOP power brokers have whispered that Gaetz may resign for a gig with Fox News. Escambia County names being batted around as possible replacements for Gaetz include Ashton Hayward, David Morgan, Frank White, David Stafford and Alex Andrade. Cris Dosev and Mike Hill might even consider a run for the post. However, remember Okaloosa County is a powerful voting bloc, and Escambia County votes usually splinter.

LIVELY TOWN HALLS For months now, Pensacola's Citizens Police Advisory Committee has discussed and debated the dynamics between law enforcement and the local com-

munity, looking toward providing Mayor Grover Robinson with recommendations for improving this relationship by March.

To date, the committee has held its meetings in Pensacola City Hall, but in February, CPAC plans to hold a pair of town halls to engage the public in the conversation.

Dr. Cedric Alexander, a retired law enforcement official who is shepherding CPAC, advised that the public exchanges may be tense and confrontational, amounting to an emotional release. CPAC Chairman Drew Buchanan said he welcomed that passion.

"I hope it is lively," he said. "I hope I'm not in the minority, [but] I'm kinda bored up here, nobody coming to talk to us. It makes me feel like, 'Is this really important?'"

The first CPAC town hall is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4, at the Fricker Resource Center. The second will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 18, at the Bayview Resource Center. The in-person capacity would be limited, and a live stream online option would be available.

In preparation for the town halls, Dr. Alexander suggested that committee members be ready to field questions about the city's movement on this front and also view the events as an opportunity to build a relationship with the public.

"Who's going to talk? Who's going to answer these questions?" Alexander asked.

"Because that may be your opportunity for you to gain a following if you will. Or, it could be an opportunity for people to say, 'Aww, I'm not gonna bother with this.'"

He also asked CPAC members to be conscious of the reason for the committee's existence in the first place—a July 2019 incident during which a former PPD detective shot and killed a Black man, Tymar Crawford, during a traffic stop.

"We've got to consider the history of policing in this community, especially in communities of color, where that relationship is strained," Alexander said. "We didn't just wake up one morning and put this group together.

Something happened."

As CPAC prepares to engage the broader

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Congratulations Preston Forshee community in its discussions, the city will also be wading into a national search for a new police chief. Alexander said that this fact, coupled with the more in-depth exploration of community-law enforcement relations occurring at the national level, made CPAC's mission all the more critical and complicated.

"This is becoming more and more complex and more and more convoluted, and you've got to be more thoughtful about it," Alexander advised.

CHILDREN'S TRUST BOARD The Escam-

bia County Commission is seeking applications from county residents to serve on the Children's Services Council (CSC). Applications are available online at myescambia.com or in person at the Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building, located at 221 S. Palafox, Fourth floor.

The application consists of several parts—an Escambia County CSC application, a questionnaire for Gubernatorial Appointments and an optional resume. Both applications must be completed and submitted together to be considered. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30.

The Children Services Council will be funded by an increase in ad valorem taxes of up to a maximum of 0.5 mil. The CSC will be responsible for assessing the children's needs in the county and developing a strategic plan for addressing unmet needs for submission to the county commission.

Nominees must be residents of Escambia County for the previous 24-month period and willing to submit an annual Statement of Financial Interests Form. Florida Statutes also require that gubernatorial appointments are representative of the demographic diversity of the county's population.

The eligible applications will be compiled for consideration during the Feb. 18 commission meeting. To narrow down the pool to the 15 nominations for the governor, each commissioner will nominate two applicants, and the full board nominates five additional applicants.

Following the board's selection, the county will send the list of nominees to the governor for consideration. He has 45 days to make a selection or request a new list of candidates. The length of the terms of the initial appointees must be adjusted to stagger the terms. The initial term lengths for the five seats are—Seats 1, 3 and 5, four years; and Seats 2 and 4, two years. Each of the five gubernatorial appointees will be randomly assigned a seat number and corresponding term length. Those assigned a two-year term will be eligible to apply for reappointment.

The Children's Services Council (CSC) will consist of 10 members, including the Superintendent of Schools, school board member as appointed by the school board, Department of Children and Families District Administrator or DCF designee, judge assigned to juvenile cases as appointed by the chief judge, county commissioner as appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and five members appointed January 28, 2021

by the governor from candidates nominated by the board of county commissioners to serve a four-year term.

Resumes and both applications may also be submitted via email to boardapply@myescambia.com. Visit escambiachildrenstrust.org for more information.

Congratulations Congratula Congratulati to Scott Barrow ScottBarr Ba totoScott

Regions Bank is pleased to congratulate the 2021 Rising Star Honorees, including our own Preston Forshee.

2021 SUNDAY'S CHILD GRANTS Sunday's Child will award four grants of $27,000 each for a total of $108,000 raised by its 161 members. These grants will be bestowed to nonprofit organizations that place value on Regions Bank is pleased to congratulate the 2018is pleased to con Regions Bank diversity, inclusion and equality within the Regions Bank is pleased to congrat Pensacola Bay Area.

Power List Honorees, including ourPower own Scott Barrow. including List Honorees, Launched in 2014, Sunday's Child uses a Power List Honorees, including ou model where members or ensemScottindividual Barrow | Area Wealth Executive Scott Barrow | Area Wealth Executive bles of two or three donate $1,000 Pensacola-Fort Walton Beach annually, City President Scott Barrow | Area Wealth Executive Pensacola-Fort Walton Beach City President with all the funds going toward grant awards.

Pensacola-Fort Walton Beach City President Sunday's Child members vet grant applications, and the votes of members determine winners at its annual meeting.

Over 1.800.regions the past seven years, the organiza| regions.com 1.800.regions | regions.com tion has raised over $644,000. These dollars 1.800.regions | regions.com have funded projects that have impacted Follow us for helpful tips Follow us for helpful tips areas such as child welfare, animal welfare, and information.

Followand us for helpful tips information. hunger issues, LGBTQ+ issues, health, adults and information. with disabilities and the arts. © 2018 Regions Bank. Regions and the Regions area logo are registered LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.

"Pensacola and the surrounding are trademarks of Regions Bank.©The2018 2021 Regions Bank.

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Regions Bank. Regions and the Regions logo registered trademarks Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a of trademark of Regions Bank. © 2018 RegionsThe Bank.LifeGreen Regions and the Regions are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank. color islogo a trademark of Regions Bank. served by some amazing nonprofit organizations," said Sunday's Child president Gary Rhodes. "Our members recognize not only the importance of supporting local nonprofits but also the importance of creating an accepting and inclusive environment for all of our citizens, including our LGBTQ+ citizens."

Sunday's Child will award the grants in June. Letters of intent may be submitted through Feb. 24. For further information, visit sundayschild.org.

TINY HOUSES A tiny homes ordinance re-

cently adopted by the Milton City Council aims to provide affordable, creative housing options.

The ordinance, the first of its kind in Northwest Florida, allows for downsized versions of traditional houses on permanent foundations that are as small as 300 square feet, on lots as small as 3,500 square feet. Tiny homes are permitted in the City's R-U and R-3 zoning districts.

Andrew Zupkoff, the city's Planning & Development Director, says the ordinance holds tiny homes to the same design standards as any other single-family home in the city, the only difference being their reduced size. Storage units and tiny houses on wheels are not allowed under the ordinance.

"Tiny homes and their yards will be attractive amenities in Milton," said Zupkoff in a written statement. "Architecturally, our regulations ensure tiny homes appear as scaled-down versions of traditional homes found throughout the community."

He continued, "Tiny home lots and subdivisions are required to be landscaped just like any other residence, and the subdivisions will have common areas and recreational amenities for residents to enjoy." {in} 9

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In the early days of this newspaper, we recognized the economic boom of the 1990s didn't help all segments of our community. The city and county were caught in a stagnant loop similar to Bill Murray's "Groundhog Day." Too many of our best and brightest were leaving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties for better opportunities elsewhere.

We made it our mission to help create an environment that improved everyone's quality of life— regardless of race, gender, income level or neighborhood. In 2005, we saw the proposed Community Maritime Park as a public-private partnership that would catapult Pensacola to the next level of eco-

January 28, 2021

nomic success and foster a community where young professionals would thrive.

We also believed that to create a place where talented young people would want to work, live, and play, we needed them to be in the room where decisions about their future were being made. We launched the Pensacola Young Professionals to help those under the age of 40 be heard by city and county leaders.

In 2008, we created Rising Stars to recognize those young leaders seen by their peers, clients and bosses as up-and-coming leaders in their fields and the community. The program has been a source of pride for this newspaper as many of them have

moved on to further success and become major influencers in our community, region and state.

Every January, we select 64 men and women from a field of over 200 nominations from various professions—including medical, legal, accounting, arts, education, public service and business. Skeptics told us that we would run out of worthy honorees in a couple years, but the list of nominations has grown steadily.

With the Rising Stars class of 2021, Inweekly has recognized 769 up-and-coming leaders since the program's inception. This class, like its predecessors, will be difference makers. We look forward to seeing their contributions. {in}

11

RISING STARS ASHLEY MARIE ARMSTRONG

Associate Attorney, The Watson Firm What makes your job 'click' for you?

The gratification of seeing a client finally feel whole makes my job click. My job is all about helping people who cannot advocate for themselves. I love bringing a sense of closure and peace to my clients after what may have been the most difficult time in their lives.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Do your part to be outstanding. My grand-

father taught me that the smallest act can ripple to change the lives of people around you, but it is a collective effort which requires each of us to do our part.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Aside from advocating for injured clients, I have had the pleasure of mentoring high school girls preparing to attend the American Legion Auxiliary's Florida Girls State program. As a past delegate, it's rewarding to share with them lessons and advice over the last few years.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Love your neighbor as yourself.

MICHAEL BIXBY

Shareholder, Levin, Papantonio, Rafferty, Proctor, Buchanan, O'Brien, Barr & Mougey, P.A. What makes your job 'click' for you?

I get to fight for justice for the little guy against the odds of giant corporations with virtually unlimited resources. My work makes a real difference to the most vulnerable, retirees, widows and often folks who are disabled.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family, my work at Levin Papantonio Rafferty and a city that just keeps getting better and better.

DAVON BRANCH

Branch Manager, Pen Air Federal Credit Union What makes your job 'click' for you?

The awards, of course. Seriously though, it's the people. I love the uniqueness of people.

Learning who they are and helping meet their financial needs is kind of like playing Tetris to me. Finding the perfectly fit solution isn't always simple, but it feels incredible to meet our members' needs.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Be fearless. I make a point to continually pursue new ventures that I have little to 212 1

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Potential. Pensacola is a growing city full of innovative thinkers, change agents and dedicated residents. If I can continue to contribute transformative energy to the city, especially marginalized communities, then the lives of so many can be changed. I stay in Pensacola because I believe in Pensacola.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Keep God first. Remain humble. Just be yourself. Putting this advice into practice consistently and keeping it at the forefront of my mind helps to guide my decisions and has made it possible for me to receive many wonderful opportunities. I give this same advice to others.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I represented a group of several dozen retirees from the Mobile area who lost their life savings due to investment mismanagement. I tried the first case as lead counsel and obtained a $1.16 million verdict for deserving clients, and I was able to favorably resolve the remaining claims.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Bible and a hodgepodge of diverse news sources on news.google.com.

What's on your regular reading list?

My reading list is constantly revolving into a growing library, but regulars include UWF Connection Magazine, EVAL Fashion's newsletter and anything by Dante Alighieri.

KIMBERLY BOWENS

Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Reality Check Counseling Services What makes your job 'click' for you?

Being able to make a positive impact on a client's life by facilitating his/her healing makes the job "click" for me. I accompany my clients on their therapeutic journey as they navigate through uncomfortable emotions in an effort to achieve mental wellness. I love being able to witness their progress.

no experience with and have found that the most efficient way to acclimate is to activate. Get in there, research, take action and build credibility to that point that you own your role.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Working as a board member for the nonprofit organization Inertia has been immensely rewarding. I've worked in various facets of the organization, but being in the classrooms, working with local students and seeing them understand and get excited about STEM satisfies my endless desire to help others in our community.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Any time that I am able to participate in a community service event, speaking engagement or other platform that allows me to raise awareness regarding mental health is a rewarding project. I consider it even more rewarding if a person subsequently reaches out to find out more about mental health/counseling.

What's on your regular reading list?

Counseling Today, Psychology Today, selfhelp books and daily devotionals.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is a city that is rich with culture, which allows me to interact with people from diverse backgrounds on a regular basis. I also love the idea of living where others come to vacation.

What's on your regular reading list?

Any book by Simon Sinek, Inweekly, PNJ and The Art of Manliness podcast.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

While I have an eternal connection to my birthplace, Detroit, Mich. (Go Blue), I matured into adulthood here in Pensacola.

The slew of formative experiences that I had throughout that time period and the many influential people I met along the way have solidified Pensacola's value in my heart.

inweekly.net

2021

Our team creates brands that outshine the competition...

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

A great mentor and leader shared, "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough."—Albert Einstein Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Leading our work with a large, sophisticated client and being able to help them achieve even greater success operationally—creating a great place to work and a great place for health care.

DAVE BROWN

Regional Director, Huron Consulting Group (formerly Studer Group) What makes your job "click" for you?

Creating the strategy to reach new clients, building relationships with new people every day and enjoying the success when these two things come together.

What's on your regular reading list?

Books on U.S. history and business leadership, Modern Healthcare magazine, Harvard Business Review, HealthLeaders and PNJ. What keeps you in Pensacola?

We love the growing Pensacola downtown and the plan for more growth over the next 10 years, the beaches, our church and our many family members and friends.

Because our team shines just as bright. you're tolerated. You are never as great as your best day or as bad as your worst day.

Stay faithful.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Outside of leading my church, my most rewarding project has been serving as the Equity Representative for Achieve Escambia. The opportunity to practically advocate for the marginalized in our area to receive equitable education has poured gasoline on my passion and given me hope for the future of our city.

TYLER BURNS

Lead Pastor, NDCC Pensacola What makes your job 'click' for you?

My job is all about two things—people and purpose. I want every person I meet to feel as though they are valuable and important. I also have the privilege of watching people find their purpose and flourish in their God-given genius. There is nothing more rewarding.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Go where you're celebrated, not where

Hillary Rivera, 2021 Rising Star

What's on your regular reading list?

Books—"Jesus and the Disinherited" by Thurman, "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality"

by Scazzero. Blogs—The Witness BCC, New York Times, The Atlantic and The Root.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is the womb that birthed me, "the village" that raised me, the family that loved me, the home that held me, the community that challenged me, the platform that launched me and the crowd that cheers me. There is no place I would rather be.

At idgroup, building people is as important as building brands. We are honored to add another luminary to our list of incredible team members, past and present, that have been recognized as Independent News Rising Stars.

The idgroup All-Star Team: Hillary Rivera 2021 Rising Star Nick Gray 2019 Rising Star Erin Wachtel Stubbs & Danielle Kelly 2018 Rising Stars Mariah Singerman Crawford 2017 Rising Star Carly Ross 2016 Rising Star Somi Choi 2015 Rising Star Kris Poore 2014 Rising Star Lindsey Braxton Shook 2013 Rising Star

IDGROUP B RAN DIN G .COM

January 28, 2021

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85 0.438.7823

13

RISING STARS CLAUDIA CARLSON

Director of Volunteers, Fiesta Pensacola What makes your job 'click' for you?

The people. Fiesta is truly a huge, happy family, and I love every minute working with our wonderful volunteers, board members, staff, etc.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Growing up, my dad always told me to never take the easy way out. "If it is easy,

anyone can do it"—it sounds simple, but I try to live my life with that advice in mind.

I want to be the best version of myself, and that takes determination.

What's on your regular reading list?

I love to read theSkimm in the morning to quickly catch up on the latest news. I also enjoy fashion and lifestyle blogs.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

In the event industry, I feel that every event we successfully accomplish is so incredibly rewarding. We take a lot of time and effort to make sure that every detail is perfect and our guests are going to have the best possible experience. Working for Fiesta is very rewarding.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is my home. I love everything about living in Pensacola—my family, friends and job. I feel so lucky to live in such a beautiful place that just continues to grow and prosper.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Creativity is a muscle.

you came from. No matter how big or small or frustrating the task, do it to the best of your ability because you are representing not just yourself but your company, your family and, most importantly, Jesus Christ.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

They've all been meaningful in different ways. The mural at Garden & Grain was special because it challenged me to work at new heights. I'm constantly learning and seeking new challenges, so I like to think that my best project is always the next one.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

With all of the challenges that 2020 brought to so many, I felt honored to be able to assist clients in business planning during the pandemic. This included providing assistance in taking advantage of the available COVID relief opportunities.

RACHAEL DANNELLEY

Accounting Services Manager, Warren Averett What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love that in my current position, I'm able to utilize my prior work experiences and the resources of Warren Averett to help clients more efficiently and effectively run their businesses on a daily basis. Any time I'm able to take any stress off a client's plate is a good day.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Always remember who you are and where

What's on your regular reading list?

Journal of Accountancy, The Adoptive Mom podcast, Alabama Alumni Magazine, PNJ and Inweekly.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Ten years ago, career opportunities brought my husband and I to Pensacola.

But now that we have a son, I can't imagine living anywhere else. On top of the beautiful beaches, there are always community events to enjoy year-round. It's a beautiful place to live and grow.

REBBA R. DICKERSON IB Coordinator, Pensacola High School

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I bear witness to dreams realized and potential actualized on a regular basis. I am afforded the opportunity to aid students on how to translate passion and purpose into a career path. Assisting in the development of their God-given skills, knowledge and strengths makes it all click for me.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for 414 1

DANIELA DE CASTRO SUCRE

Fine Artist, Muralist and Designer; Owner, Domo Creative Space LLC What makes your job 'click' for you?

The field of public art offers a space where you can combine multiple disciplines of the visual arts. I'm an illustrator, a painter and a designer, so murals give me the opportunity to integrate these different branches and create meaningful, creative work that resonates with me and with others.

your life in Christ Jesus"—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Following the key principles of joy, prayer and thankfulness helps me to keep things in perspective, maintains my focus and maneuvers my actions intentionally.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I co-created the Prepare 4 Greatness Conference, open to all high school students in Escambia County. This conference brought in prominent community members and resources to educate parents and assist students in preparation for life after high school. I look forward to this continuing annually to help inspire future success.

What's on your regular reading list?

The New York Times, PNJ and the Making Sense podcast by Sam Harris. I'm currently reading Victoria Finlay's "Color: A Natural History of the Palette."

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family, friends, the talented Pensacola art community and the opportunities that appear as this city continues to grow and develop.

What's on your regular reading list?

My reading list is broad and often includes spiritually uplifting or challenging text, education-related books, cooking/home improvement blogs and material my students are currently reading.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is home, and it is only fitting I return to give back to a place that invested tremendously into me. As I seek to assist others in finding and achieving their purpose, I truly believe that giving back is part of mine, and I will not relent.

inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Learn me something." Growing up, my mother would say this to me and my siblings as a salutation whenever we'd leave home for the day. She still does. My parents always encouraged learning both inside and outside the classroom. Their influence taught me to view education as a lifelong journey.

DEJA DOWDELL

Marketing Coordinator, City of Pensacola Parks and Recreation Department What makes your job 'click' for you?

Building community. Whether it's bringing partners and citizens together for an event or promoting center programs on the radio, each day presents a new opportunity to build alongside other passionate individuals who genuinely care about our city's well-being. Together, we see to it that Pensacola thrives at its best.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

At age 16, I worked as a promotora for a nonprofit committed to increasing education, employment and access to quality-of-life services for underserved communities throughout my county. There, I learned how community impact could be achieved professionally. The ability to do so has fueled my career ever since.

What's on your regular reading list?

Apple News offers convenient access to world events from different perspectives. I also read Business Insider, New York Times, Smithsonian, Essence and WSJ. What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is such a gem. It has a little big town feel that gives you the perfect blend of progression and history that hasn't been lost. Having been here just over two years, there's still so much to explore. Plus, the beaches are the best.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

If something takes less than two minutes, finish that task immediately. It's better to free up the mental space and get it off your plate so you can move on to other things.

JESSICA EDWARDS Marketing & Events, Great Southern Restaurants

What makes your job 'click' for you?

My job is the perfect combination of all the things I enjoy doing—graphic design, marketing, photography and events. I get to be creative but also build relationships with our restaurant's customers and community partners. I love working for a locally owned business with coworkers who feel like family.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Helping start an organization called Positively Pensacola with some of my closest friends. Its mission is to shine a light on our community by recognizing those individuals, businesses and organizations that make Pensacola shine. We hope to bring women together through meetups that create lasting and positive connections.

What's on your regular reading list?

Whatever book my book club is reading that month. I'm always listening to audiobooks or podcasts. Personal development and lifestyle/design books are my favorite.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

The people. I have seen the generosity and strength of our community in so many ways this year. There are always opportunities to get involved with amazing local organizations. I also love living by the water and taking walks downtown with my family.

Congratulations to our 2021 Rising Stars!

Dave Brown

Basil Kuloba

Kristie Tobias

www.Huron.com

Maritime Place Office | 350 West Cedar Street | Pensacola January 28, 2021

15

RISING STARS

BRITTANY ELLERS Public Relations Coordinator, Emerald Coast Regional Council

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I believe hearing and respecting other perspectives is a crucial ingredient for success with any project. I get to serve communities from Mexico Beach, Fla., to Lillian, Ala., and ensure citizen voices are heard on local and regional projects alike. Honestly, it's just so much fun.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

My mom has always told me to be true to myself and genuine. I have found that's key when truly connecting with the community. Our communities are such treasures, and I want to do whatever I can to protect those treasures.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

My parents have always told me to treat people as you would like to be treated and to never burn any bridges. Also to save for your future; that way, every day can be Saturday ‌ eventually.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I have enjoyed working on many rewarding projects, but I would have to say that working on Ciclovia Pensacola has been one of the most rewarding, both personally and professionally. I can't describe how rewarding it is seeing the community actively engaged in a project that I helped lead.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Designing and building my first home was a rewarding project. Although at the time it seemed pretty stressful, I look back now and I can't believe my vision came to life like that. I hope I have the chance to do it again soon.

What's on your regular reading list?

Other than local publications and scopes of work, my reading list is always changing. I love visiting the public library to grab a few books.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family and friends are the most important reasons to stick around, but beyond that, I love the big-little city vibe, you can do anything from paddle boarding to shopping at a local market.

There is always something to do. I also admire our community's passion for helping each other.

LINDSEY ENGEL

Import, Craft and Specialty Brands Manager, The Lewis Bear Company What makes your job 'click' for you?

I have always had a passion for the craft beer industry, so when the position became available, I knew I had to interview for it.

Almost 10 years later, I am lucky to be part of such a fun, fast-paced industry and work for such a wonderful company.

What's on your regular reading list?

Beer Business Daily, New Brewer Magazine, multiple houseboating and tiny home blogs, and also anything to do with redoing a vintage Airstream.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I have lived here my whole life. I have a huge family here, great friends and a wonderful employer. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. We live where people vacation.

The Watson Firm Congratulates

ATTORNEY ASHLEY ARMSTRONG on making the 2021 Rising Star List.

850 S. Palafox St. Suite 202 Pensacola, FL 32502 PH: (850) 607-2929 616 1

watsonfirm.com inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

My grandfather, who passed away recently, always told us growing up that if you love what you do, then you'll never work a day in your life. He taught mathematics at all levels for over 75 years and retired at the age of 96.

JOEY FISHBEIN

Orthodontist, Fishbein Orthodontics What makes your job 'click' for you?

I work with the best people. Every day, we get to help patients by improving their smile.

Whether it's straightening their front teeth or improving their bite, you really get to see a difference in the way people carry themselves, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Having a background in music, I have always been passionate about music education programs. The Fishbein Foundation has helped me get involved in initiatives to keep music in schools. I am proud to say that we will be donating musical instruments to elementary school music programs.

What's on your regular reading list?

Lately, it's been keeping up on all things Baltimore Ravens related. Go Ravens! #ActionJackson What keeps you in Pensacola?

I love my job, and I also love the area as well. As someone who grew up in Baltimore, I must say, I do prefer the warmer weather down here.

Congratulations to our 2021 Rising Star,

Lance Gibson!

GoGulf Winds.com Federally insured by NCUA. Equal housing opportunity.

and no matter how tough you are, always be sweet on the inside."—my mother Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Having the opportunity to work with the Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart COVID-19 response team has been the most challenging and rewarding project I have ever been a part of. Serving our community in such a trying time is humbling and a great honor.

JENNY PAIGE FORD

Regional Laboratory Quality Manager, Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart What makes your job 'click' for you?

The best thing about my job is at the core of everything, I am helping people. I am fortunate to work for an organization that encourages me to utilize my skills as a scientist to make a real difference in our patients' lives.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Be like a pineapple—stand tall, wear a crown

January 28, 2021

What's on your regular reading list?

The Journal of the American Society for Clinical Laboratory, American Journal of Clinical Pathology and "The Sun and Her Flowers" by Rupi Kaur.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family has deep roots in Pensacola.

My great-grandmother grew up here, and generations of Paige women have raised their families here and actively served our community. My appreciation for the performing arts began here within the walls of our Saenger Theatre. Pensacola's culture and charm makes this home.

17

RISING STARS ANNA-MARIE FORSHEE Attorney, Moorhead Real Estate Law Group

What makes your job 'click' for you?

Being an attorney allows me to be a thinker, a writer and a creator, all of which I thoroughly enjoy. I have opportunities to work with some extremely bright legal minds. The mental challenge of completing projects combined with the gratifying feeling of helping others fulfills me.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Two pieces of advice that I rely on regularly

were instilled in me by my parents as a child. The first is, "God is faithful," and the second is, "The things in life worth having require hard work."

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Helping a local nonprofit organization purchase property to serve as its future home was a very rewarding project. This project was particularly rewarding because I was able to provide legal assistance to a worthy organization that will support people in this community for many years to come.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Pay attention to the details and do the small things right; the rest will fall into place.

Trust Advisor/Vice President, Regions Bank What makes your job 'click' for you?

My job allows me to use my background as an estate planning and transactions attorney with the added benefit of getting out from behind a desk and spending my days connecting with clients and implementing plans we make together.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My wife and I returned to Pensacola after grad school because our families are here and we found fantastic professional opportunities. Aside from that, we stay because the culture and pace of Pensacola provide a wonderful place to raise our girls.

PRESTON FORSHEE

MICHAEL FOUNTAIN Owner, Taylor Made Barbershop

What makes your job 'click' for you?

My job gives me life. I can wake up every morning knowing I'm about to put a smile on someone's face or even change the mood of their day to make it better. I love being in that position to help.

818 1

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My husband and I moved to Pensacola a few years ago to be closer to family. Having family close by brings so much happiness to me.

I have a deep love for the water and beaches here, and I enjoy being part of a community with a loving, small-town atmosphere.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

You can't fail if you never stop trying.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Odd Colony Brewing Co. We started with a great team and still have the same team here and have added a few new jobs in our first pandemic year. To be standing tall after all of this is something I am very proud of.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

It's difficult to single out one client or project. Whenever I help a person or family develop appropriate plans to transition their life's savings or business and assuage their anxiety and fears, that's when I go home most fulfilled.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Times, the Journal, the Atlantic and the National Review. Locally, the PNJ and, of course, Inweekly and Rick's Blog.

What's on your regular reading list?

My Bible is my daily staple. When I am not reading legal materials for work, I enjoy reading blogs related to nutrition, health and wellness.

BLAKE FOSTER

What's on your regular reading list?

I devour autobiographies of people who have had entrepreneurial success in a variety of sectors. My latest read is "Delivering Happiness" by Tony Hsieh.

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I like to stay busy. Anything where I can work with a creative team that drives a sense of purpose and helps the overall community.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I have a lot of faith in the future of Pensacola. I have been here off and on since 1994, so my wife and family are here. The current climate in downtown is full of talent, and many in the pipeline coming are very exciting.

CEO, Founder, Odd Colony Brewing Co.; Administrator, Southern Oaks Care Center; Sales Agent, Kuhn Realty

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Never rush life because of the things you want.

Always take the time to get what you really need.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

My most rewarding project was investing time in some of the boys and mentoring them from day one in high school until now playing Division I football in college.

What's on your regular reading list?

"48 Laws of Power," "The Art of War" and "The Way of Orisha."

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My job here is not done. Pensacola is my home.

I have traveled all around the world, and there's nothing like home. If I can make my city better one day at a time by showing our kids a way to be successful in life, I'll be accomplished.

inweekly.net

2021

BRYAN FREEMAN

Assistant Principal, Pensacola High School; Executive Director, Lamplighters, Inc. What makes your job 'click' for you?

I feel a great sense of purpose at my current administrative assignment at Pensacola High School. It is my alma mater, but beyond that, it is the place where I first discovered the importance of great mentors. Being a student at PHS inspired my nonprofit work with Lamplighters, Inc. What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Show me a successful individual and I'll

show you someone who had real positive influences in his or her life. I don't care what you do for a living—if you do it well, I'm sure there was someone cheering you on or showing the way. A mentor."—Denzel Washington

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

When it comes to working, if you find something that you love and are passionate about, you will never work a day in your life.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

The Gulf Coast Omega Dance/Step Extravaganza (The GCODE) is an annual event I started in 2015 that brings together over 3,000 community members and several nonprofit organizations for an amazing performance showcase of local and regional talent. The event raises over $50,000 each year for scholarships for high school seniors.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Working with the Pensacola Omega Lamplighters mentoring program for the last five years has been the most rewarding project.

Also being selected to be the director of the Lamplighter Academy, a mentoring program for young boys in Escambia County grades K-4.

What's on your regular reading list?

I'm currently reading "10 Mindframes for Visible Learning," by John Hattie. I also listen to The Black Scholars podcast, which has a dope curated series for minority educators.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I came back to Pensacola with a vision to start a nonprofit mentor program for young men of all ages in our community. I also wanted to one day come back to my alma mater and serve as an administrator. My career and community work are what keep me here.

WILLIAM FREEMAN IV

Director, Lamplighter Academy; Manager, Planet Fitness; Director of Operations, Escambia Boys Base What makes your job 'click' for you?

Knowing that no two days are alike. Every day, I wake up with an opportunity to impact someone's life and someone has the opportunity to make an impact on my life.

What's on your regular reading list?

CNN, PNJ, "The Book of Awesomeness," "48 Laws of Power" and "The Busy Leader's Handbook."

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family, great friends and being able to work and mentor young people in a community that I love.

Our Stars shine bright, PROVING ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.

JEREMY OCHOA Assistant Controller, Office of University Budgets

At the University of West Florida, our Stars dream bigger, imagine greater and believe in limitless possibility. They lead change, unleashing the power of potential.

Their impact is changing our world.

uwf.edu/NoLimits

January 28, 2021

CLAIRE STEWART

LEONOR ROPER

Director of Communications and Special Projects, University Advancement

Social Media and Public Relations Specialist, Office of Institutional Communications

19

RISING STARS LANCE GIBSON

Project Manager, Gulf Winds Credit Union What makes your job 'click' for you?

My job 'clicks' following a large project being completed, and the team and I get to see the impact it makes on the communities we serve. There are times during hard work when we can forget why we do what we do, but at that moment, it all comes together.

JONATHAN GREEN

Social Justice Strategist, J. Garrett Green & Associates, LLC What makes your job 'click' for you?

The independence of having my own company. Advocacy is my passion, and I am able to advocate for others while being independent. Independence is important.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

The most rewarding project I've worked on was in 2019, when we had the opportunity to step in and help a credit union struggling.

Without us, the NCUA would have closed

this credit union, and we were able to step in and perform a merger in the 11th hour.

What's on your regular reading list?

I'm a markets and current events guy, so my daily reading includes MarketWatch, Bloomberg, BBC and PNJ. What keeps you in Pensacola?

I'm a born and raised native of Pensacola.

Having traveled, I am sure that nowhere has the people and culture that we have here. The community keeps me here and always will.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Just because you call them a friend does not mean they have your best interest in mind."—C.M. Green (my grandfather)

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

It's very simple but treat everyone the way you would wanted to be treated. My mom would always tell me that.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

"Streetwise 101: #KnowYourRights" has been one the most rewarding projects I have worked on. I am able to engage audiences to educate people about civil rights.

Even more so, I am able to teach others how to better advocate for themselves in the event of a police encounter.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Last summer, I had the opportunity to work with the DIB to organize a "Drive-N-Shop Market" to help a few of our local Palafox Market vendors while the normal market was temporarily closed due to COVID. Our community needs our local entrepreneurs.

What's on your regular reading list?

Democracy Now! and thenorthstar.com.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I believe in order to change the world, you must start from home. Pensacola is my home.

SHADIA RASSOUL JARAMILLO Graduate Architect, Dalrymple Sallis Architecture

What makes your job 'click' for you?

What makes my job click is when I see the difference that we make in the communities through design by creating good architecture. Also, being able to work with an amazing and supportive team every day and helping our clients achieve their visions and dreams.

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What's the best advice you've ever been given?

I'm a nerd, so the best advice I've been given is from Master Yoda—"Do or do not.

There is no try." In my career, the word "try" is poison. You are bound to fail by "trying" to do something meaningful. Be a do-er to get things done.

CHARLES HOUSTON

SCI Building Operations Manager, Studer Family of Companies

What's on your regular reading list?

PNJ, Inweekly, New York Times and currently reading "A Promised Land" by President Obama.

What makes your job 'click' for you?

At SFOC, the mission is to make Pensacola the greatest community in the world, and I have the opportunity to work toward this goal every day.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Growing up in this area, I recognize Pensacola is an exciting place to be right now.

There's so much growth and opportunity taking place currently. Downtown Pensacola has become a destination.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

A piece of advice I never forget is "Choose to be positive." This phrase reminds me that no matter what situation you are in, you should always persevere, give your all and never give up. Always try to make the best out of every situation.

What's on your regular reading list?

Most of my readings include architecture books because I am studying for the architecture licensure exams. Outside the realm of architecture, I read Paulo Coelho books.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I feel like every project is rewarding in some way. In the design field, you are fortunate to see the final product. As a graduate architect, I get to experience every phase of the architecture process. One of my favorite parts is seeing how people occupy the space.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola feels like home to me. This is especially true because my fiancé and my job are here. I am originally from Panama, and Pensacola has that tropical feel that Caribbean countries have—perfect weather, the beach and a relaxed vibe. I basically live where people vacation.

inweekly.net

January 28, 2021

21

RISING STARS What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"It is not how you start the race or where you are during the race—it is how you cross the finish line that will matter."—Robert D. Hales. The how you cross the finish line will always define you. May be beat up, but that is what true character is.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Choices lead; feelings follow.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

While serving as an AmeriCorps member and Financial Literacy Specialist, I had the opportunity to develop the EscaRosa Financial Stability Coalition. The Coalition is a diverse group of community partners who have expertise in banking, education, career/workforce development, financial counseling, homeownership and military/veteran affairs.

JESSICA JOHNSON

Wellness Case Manager, Pensacola State College What makes your job 'click' for you?

When a student comes to my office or calls in distress but leaves feeling empowered and has been de-escalated. Many of the students I interface with are struggling, going through a crisis and feel hopeless. Knowing that I'm in a position to provide solutions, encouragement and hope is a privilege.

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What's on your regular reading list?

The Bible, Inside Higher Ed, Nonprofit Quarterly and materials related to leadership, ministry or mental health.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

At Pensacola State College, we say, "Go Here. Get There." While this is catered to our students, I believe the same is true for anyone living/working in Pensacola. Establishing your foundation in Pensacola and connecting to the great networks we have here prepares you for any place or situation.

RYAN JONES, BSN, RN Patient Care Nurse Manager of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Pediatric Vascular Access Team, Studer Family Children's Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart; Sr. Firefighter, Avalon Fire Rescue

What makes your job 'click' for you?

Having the opportunity to serve as the leader of an amazing group of nurses and being able to be that difference maker in the lives of our pediatric patients, as well as the impact that I can have on families that are affected in the worst times of their lives.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

The opportunity to help start up the Pediatric S.E.A.L. team at Studer Family Children's Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart.

This is a specialized, diverse team that goes out to outlying facilities and trains staff to provide the best pediatric critical care to our community. Giving them insight means everything to me.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Bible and American Journal of Critical Care.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola area has always been special to me. This is where I call home and love the small-town life. Everyone knows everyone, and the people here are great.

inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

My uncle Buck always said, "If you're early, you're on time; if you're on time, you're late." It's important to be punctual, literally, but I also see it, figuratively, as making sure you're diligent, prepared and dedicated in everything you do.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

It's probably cliché, but I can't pick just one.

Every time we get a good result and our client has their peace of mind restored after the life-changing event that led them to hire us, it's always incredibly rewarding.

GEOFF JOSEPH Attorney, Crawford Law

What makes your job 'click' for you?

Typically, our clients have either experienced life-changing injury to themselves or their property due to no fault of their own, so the satisfaction comes from helping people get their lives back on track by getting them the care and results they need in their legal cases.

What's on your regular reading list?

Westlaw cases and Florida Law Weekly take up a majority of my reading, but, of course, I always pick up a copy of Inweekly.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Working to help people in my hometown community is something I've always wanted to do. My family has been in Pensacola for over five generations, my wife's from here and I have a great group of friends that grew up together. Plus, we have the best beach in the world.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Never underestimate the difference you can make."—Quint Studer. No matter what you are doing, big or small, it is important to understand the "why" and connect to your passion. With everything I do, I remember Quint's words and the positive ripple effect I can have on others.

BRIAN KENNEDY

Communications and Systems Manager, Emergency Care Partners What makes your job 'click' for you?

The people I work with everyday have become my family. When you work with great people, focused on a passion that aligns with your own, it's easy to wake up every morning excited to make an impact. Together, we are a catalyst for improving emergency medicine operations for local communities.

January 28, 2021

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Fortunately, my career path has always been connected to my passion, which is to make health care better for patients to receive care, physicians to practice and employees to work. More than ever before, I've been able to connect to and directly impact the front line of health care.

CARA MORRIS 2021 Rising Star

What's on your regular reading list?

I like anything about sports, especially the Green Bay Packers. Outside of sports, I read my favorite book, "Band of Brothers," once a year.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I moved to Pensacola after college to take the first step in my career. Since then, I've been embraced by an amazing community in which I've made life-long friends through Pensacola Rugby, met my beautiful wife through work and started a family in a place I'm proud to call home.

Congratulations, Cara!

-The Reeves Family of Companies -James J. Reeves, Esq. -Northtowne of Pensacola, Inc. -Pensacola Beach RV Resort -Pensacola North RV Resort -AMR at Pensacola, Inc. 23

RISING STARS BASIL KULOBA

Digital Product Analyst, Huron Consulting Group (formerly Studer Group)

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I really enjoy building products that make people's lives better, and my role allows me to do that. I get to blend my passions for education, technology and business in a position that fits me well.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

The answer is already no—go after what you want in life.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Founding Inertia has been an incredible experience and rewarding in many ways.

Inertia is a nonprofit focused on improving students' academic success. In the past three years, we've impacted the lives of hundreds

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Talk less. Smile more.

Managing Partner & CEO, Altitude Capital, LLC

What makes your job 'click' for you?

It keeps me up to date on world issues and local politics. It keeps my mind open and growing. It's also rewarding and a hell of a lot of fun.

WHITNEY C. LUCAS General Manager, Gilmore Services

What makes your job 'click' for you?

Assisting a company with deep local roots to achieve growth through innovation and change management has been quite rewarding. Our ability to expand while maintaining a people-centered and community-focused outlook coupled with our enduring pledge to safeguard what's most important to our customers makes my job 'click' for me.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

I've been privileged to have received many

MIKE MCCULLOUGH

Research Associate, Institute for Human & Machine Cognition What makes your job 'click' for you?

I have the opportunity to explore creative answers to complex questions for highperforming individuals, and I love the way solutions are often found at the intersection of cutting-edge science and real-world application. Working on a diverse team of extremely intelligent and hard-working people makes every day exciting.

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What keeps you in Pensacola?

I enjoy the opportunities I have to grow as a person and the people I get to grow with.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

As part of Leadership Pensacola Class of 2019, we assisted Gulf Coast Kid's House by creating the Safe Kid Zone Training. Creating this webbased training module to teach the importance of recognizing, reporting and thereby reducing the impacts of child abuse in our community was a humbling, yet rewarding, experience.

What's on your regular reading list?

WSJ, NYT, Inweekly, PNJ, Market Smith, Benzinga, Market Watch, Bloomberg News, Forbes, CNBC and anything involving Hamilton.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I left Pensacola for 10 years to serve in the U.S. Army. My grandparents on both sides were small-business owners in Pensacola.

They stressed the importance of giving back and making your community better.

I came home to be one of those adding to the community.

What's on your regular reading list?

I regularly read the Bible and the devotional "My Utmost for His Highest." Plus Stratechery, EdWeek, WSJ and Marty Cagan for tech and business/design.

words of wisdom over the years, the most influential of which includes a pair of words that I've penned on the whiteboard in my office—common sense and decency. Remember to use them often and you're sure to make a good decision.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Creating a stock trading service, The Altitude Life, that teaches people how to successfully trade stocks on their own.

JUSTIN LOFTIN

of students, and we've been able to build a love for science and learning in them.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

When I was in elementary school, my dad taught me that anything worth doing is worth your best effort. This is great advice because it captures pursuing your passions, finding meaning in your work and pushing to apply yourself.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

We recently collected data for one of our biggest projects ever. We planned optimal testing sessions, communicated with military leadership and scientists to meet their needs and then rolled up our sleeves to build a performance lab and collect the data. It was mentally and physically challenging, but that's what's fun.

What's on your regular reading list?

I very much enjoy historical biographies.

Whether it is a well-known historical figure or a character from the background of a historical event, I'm intrigued.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Without a doubt, it's the people of this community who keep me here. My family is here and my friends are here. Beyond that, the generous sense of community responsibility that the people of Pensacola possess helps hold me here. I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be.

What's on your regular reading list?

I'm usually reading historical nonfiction, health and performance research, or more technical news. I often prefer listening to the same topics in audiobooks and podcasts.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My wife and I love Pensacola. We enjoy a beach day (or night), riding our bikes around the neighborhoods in Gulf Breeze, checking out Palafox Market on the weekends and the awesome places to eat around town. The weather and sense of community will keep us here for a while.

inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Enjoy the journey. I have been in some form of higher education and/or residency training for 14 years following high school. Despite the sacrifices during those years, it has been important to find moments to enjoy the small wins and appreciate each step in the process.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

The best advice I've gotten is from my father—"Always have a plan with options."

I live by this, and I always make sure that I have multiple ways to get a task completed.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

My most rewarding project is currently happening by assisting with getting COVID-19 vaccine vouchers out to residents our community who are 65 and older. This is helping to bring a peace of mind to individuals in our most at-risk population. I'm thrilled to be able to help them.

ASHLEY MCDONALD Realtor, Key Impressions, LLC; Administrative Assistant, Perdido Title

What makes your job 'click' for you?

The number one thing that makes my job 'click' is being able to help individuals and families achieve their goals of homeownership. Some clients came to me who were totally discouraged by others about buying their new home, and I got the pleasure of helping them achieve their dreams.

What's on your regular reading list?

My regular reading list consist of the following—The Morning Brew blog, PNJ, Entrepreneur Magazine and, of course, Inweekly.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

After my husband and I graduated from UWF in 2015, we finally realized that we live where others come to vacation. After that realization and the great support system we have formed here through church and social organizations, we decided to make Pensacola our home. We love it here.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I have had the opportunity on multiple occasions to provide free dental care such as tooth extractions and fillings to underserved populations. Having the opportunity to utilize my chosen profession to give back has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

EZRA MERRITT Dentist, U.S. Navy

What makes your job 'click' for you?

It is an honor to provide dental care to our men and women in uniform. Unique to serving in the military, I am afforded opportunities to take on challenging leadership roles outside of my primary dental role. Appealing to me are the many opportunities for professional growth the military provides.

What's on your regular reading list?

Dental journals and leadership books are my regular reading material. I am taking a military course involving readings about military history and related subject matter.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I am grateful for the opportunity to be stationed here in Pensacola because despite growing up as an "Army Brat," this has always been considered home. This is where I went to high school and where I have a large network of family and close friends.

Congratulations to the Rising Stars of Ascension Sacred Heart

Jenny Ford

Laboratory Quality Assurance and Compliance Specialist Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart

Ryan Jones

Patient Care Manager Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart

GetSacredHeartCare.com © Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.

January 28, 2021

25

RISING STARS What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Seek balance in life. Don't let any one thing consume your every moment because life is brief and without guarantees, so each moment we are alive is a moment worth making memorable.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Always prepare for the worst but hope for the best.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Producing my first-ever commercial for The District with David Gumpel and my team was such a thrill. It took months to complete but was so worth our time and efforts. We all really enjoyed successfully executing this project. I loved the creative process from start to finish.

Marketing Coordinator, Seville Quarter and The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

What's on your regular reading list?

Pensacola Magazine, VIP Pensacola Magazine, PNJ, Inweekly, Downtown Crowd and The Home Edit.

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love the creative process that comes with the marketing/advertising field. The freedom to take what you are passionate about and develop new and fun campaigns excites me.

I love collaborating with my team to come up with different ideas and promotions that will entertain our amazing customers.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I will forever be tied to Pensacola. I was born and raised here with lots of family nearby. Our businesses, Seville Quarter and The District, are located here as well. I explored other cities and job opportunities after college but couldn't stay away from the place I call home.

LAUREN MITCHELL

CARA MORRIS

COO, James J. Reeves & Subsidiaries What makes your job 'click' for you?

Optimization and efficiency are the rock bed of productivity in organizational operations. I thrive on productivity and am results-driven, and my job allows me the freedom to explore all the avenues that bring that success to our organization. A successful operation benefits its members and creates opportunities for individual success.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Working on HR strategy and development has been hugely rewarding, mostly because it brings us on a face-to-face level with each employee and allows us to create the best work environment for all. I love creating a workspace where people enjoy coming to work.

What's on your regular reading list?

I mostly enjoy mystery novels but also The Atlantic, Life, The Writer, Time, SHRM Magazine, Travel & Leisure, Wine Enthusiasts, and various cooking and baking sites.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Since I am originally from South Africa, it would be the life I created here and my husband's family. Pensacola is the right speed for me and reflects my search for balance in my life.

Crawford Law Congratulates

ATTORNEY Geoff Joseph on being named a 2021 Rising Star

15 West La Rua Street • 850-432-7726 • www.bettercallchris.net

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inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Be gentle with yourself.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

After the death of Tymar Crawford, I was able to work with the family and community to create and implement demands. Spending time connecting and continuing the work for justice continues to be rewarding.

HALE MORRISSETTE

North Florida Regional Organizer, Dream Defenders; CEO, Life Is Hale What makes your job 'click' for you?

Building relationships in the community in order to build sustainable communities is the basis of my work. Connection being central is what makes it all come together for me.

What's on your regular reading list?

My planner, Inweekly, "P*ssy Prayers: Sacred Rituals for Wild Women of Color" and theroot.com.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

This is home, and I see such a bright future here. I am thankful that I can be part of the progression that is being made here.

out my life by multiple people. It is perhaps one of the most important pieces of advice one could give because it can be one of the most difficult to follow.

JEREMY OCHOA

Assistant Controller, University of West Florida What makes your job 'click' for you?

My current job position at UWF is the sixth job that I have held working in the accounting and finance profession. It is at UWF that I have found meaningful, challenging and rewarding work, as well as a team that encourages me to excel and advance in my field.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Don't compare yourself to others. Run your own race. It has been given to me through-

January 28, 2021

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

In spring 2018, I organized an international professionals forum, an event hosted by the Pensacola Young Professionals and Gulf Coast Diplomacy Council. It brought seven professionals, all of whom immigrated from other countries, together to share about the opportunities and challenges they experienced as a professional in Pensacola.

What's on your regular reading list?

Florida Institute of CPAs magazine, Washington Times, Reason and BioLogos newsletter.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is unique in the extent of support its people provide one another, especially in times of crisis. 2020 alone has proven this in that through a worldwide pandemic and Hurricane Sally, people rallied to support one another's families and businesses. It is this feature that compels me to stay.

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RISING STARS What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Smell the flowers when they bloom because it doesn't happen often, and always remember that tomorrow is another day.

Red tape in government work will get you down, but knowing to take a win when it's given or earned is huge—Just as huge as knowing tomorrow is another day.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

To really grow as a person, you have to find comfort in the uncomfortable. Personal growth happens when you step out of your comfort zone and embrace the moments that challenge you.

SARA PAPANTONIO

Associate Attorney, Levin, Papantonio, Rafferty, Proctor, Buchanan, O'Brien, Barr & Mougey, P.A. What makes your job 'click' for you?

My job allows me to act as the voice for those individuals who have been wronged by corporations that choose to put profits over people. I love going to work every day knowing that what I do makes a difference.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I am currently working on the litigation against Skanska, the construction company responsible for building (and destroying) the Pensacola Bay Bridge. This company has destroyed Pensacola's businesses, separated families and divided our community. I am working hard to hold Skanska accountable for its actions.

What's on your regular reading list?

"Talking with Strangers," "The Miracle Morning," Washington Post, New York Times and, of course, Inweekly.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Quality of life. Choose where you want to live first and then build your career in that location.

I love being able to work for a law firm with a national brand while also living in a great city where I am surrounded by family and friends.

STEPHEN PRESTESATER Public Information Officer/Assistant Director of Economic Development, City of Milton

What makes your job 'click' for you?

People. People keep you on your toes, making every day exciting. People are ever changing, which means that no two days will ever be the same. I work for the people and strive to always do right by them. It is people that make my job 'click.'

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

The Centennial of Naval Aviation at Naval Air Station North Island—it was by far the single largest event I have ever had the privilege and honor of working on.

What's on your regular reading list?

BeerSmith Home Brewing podcast, Master Brewers podcast, Brulosophy podcast, Brew Your Own magazine, Homebrewers Association magazine, etc. I spend my downtime brewing beer.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Warm weather, fishing, diving, hiking, beaches and family. Before moving here, we lived overseas. It's nice having the small-town atmosphere with the big-city amenities.

ADAM L. ROYAL Rising Star and Corporate and Healthcare Attorney

Beggs & Lane is a full-service law firm that provides legal advice and counsel to major corporations, businesses, and individuals.

The firm has a diverse practice that offers the flexibility and resources to serve a variety of client needs.

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inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Be sweet; be smart; be safe." My amazing (and hilarious) mom always said this to my three siblings and me before we would leave the house as teenagers, and I've carried it with me into adulthood. She refers to them as her own "Be" attitudes.

GRACIE PRICE

Entrepreneur Coordinator, The Spring Entrepreneur Hub/Studer Community Institute What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love being able to help entrepreneurs on their journey of starting and growing a business. Every day is different and energizing—we are always working on something new. I am also fortunate I get to meet and work with passionate people who do great things for our community.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

The Black-Owned Business Microgrant program The Spring created the summer of 2020. Through the generosity of Quint and Rishy Studer, we provided $50,000 in the form of microgrants to 29 Black business owners in our community who needed assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was one of the most inspiring experiences.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Newsette. It's a fun twist on an everyday newsletter. I also love reading fiction books. I keep my Kindle stocked.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Pensacola is special and will always be home for my family. My husband and I can't imagine being anywhere else. I also have so much love for our community, and I am grateful that I have opportunities to be involved in the growth and change taking place here.

and getting to work with my Old Man Prince also helps.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Expect the unexpected, and the unexpected will never happen.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

2020 brought many challenges that required quick decisions and adjustments across all projects. Coming out on the other side with great results and lessons makes me feel extremely grateful for the experiences.

HILLARY RIVERA

Digital and Traditional Media Coordinator, idgroup

What's on your regular reading list?

Planet Money Newsletter, The New Yorker (for the funnies) and I'm a daily listener of WUWF.

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love working with digital media because its nature of constant evolution creates opportunities for creativity and innovation.

Being a part of the amazing idgroup team

What keeps you in Pensacola?

The opportunity to work for an organization that has a positive impact on the community ‌ and the beaches.

January 28, 2021

29

RISING STARS LEONOR ROPER

Social Media and Public Relations Specialist, University of West Florida What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love engaging with the UWF community on social media. Seeing the passion our students, alumni and local community have for our university is what keeps me going and inspires me to find new ways to connect with our audience.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

The importance of daily affirmation. My

parents have always filled me with words of confidence, pushed me to be the best version of myself and reminded me daily that I could accomplish anything.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

My first big project at UWF was developing our first-ever team of social media ambassadors known as the UWF Street Team.

What began as a group of four students has grown to 14. Collaborating with the members and watching the team grow has been an amazing part of my job.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

It's hard to pick just one. Each project has its own challenges and rewards. And even something that seems routine on my end can be, to the client, a very significant event. I try to be mindful of that.

ADAM ROYAL

Associate Attorney, Beggs & Lane, RLLP What makes your job 'click' for you?

I enjoy working with a smart and talented group of attorneys. Beyond that, my job challenges me to learn continuously and to analyze and provide structure to problems.

It's rewarding when all those things combine into a good resolution.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I like the community. Pensacola has enough going on to be interesting but without feeling too big.

Owner, Inner 7Beauty by G.S. Boutique; Licensed Skin Care Specialist; Owner, Skin & Glory Co.; President, PCS Outreach; Professional Gospel Recording Artist

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

PCS Outreach had the opportunity to invite Disney friends to Pensacola during the pandemic. Mickey and Minnie Mouse and friends greeted over 500 kids with toys, Mickey ears, cookies and pictures. As of December 2020, we have given over 8,500 toys to children in our community.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Bible, Joyce Meyer devotionals, First 5, Black history, politics and recipe books.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family and community, of course. My family has served the community for decades and invested so much time and heart in our youth.

I want to continue to build that legacy in my hometown. I enjoy being near my loved ones and eating good seafood.

take risks, learn from your mistakes, show gratitude and always try your best.

journals/publications and the occasional social media feud.

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I get to work with and learn from so many supportive colleagues, staff, administrators and students. More importantly, I get to help students unlock the potential of a second language.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

My students are always the best and most rewarding projects, but recently, I worked with a team of dedicated colleagues to assist the entire college in its transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

I'm a transplant from Southern Illinois, so Pensacola reminds me of home but adds flavor through diversity, beautiful beaches, a fantastic food scene (especially pizza), a rich history and what I hope will be a bright future.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

I have spent the better part of my life ignoring sound advice, so I would have to say

What's on your regular reading list?

I like to diversify my intake of information between locally and internationally based news outlets and fact-checkers, academic

Instructor of Spanish & Coordinator, Online Learning & Innovation, Pensacola State College

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PRISCILLA SAPP-KIRKLAND

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love empowering others to bring forth positive change. I get to build relationships with people of all backgrounds, which is the most rewarding.

Walking in truth and love is what makes the organization effective. It's an honor and privilege to serve the community with an amazing team.

SCOTT SCHACKMANN

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Growing up in Pensacola, I've seen what it means to be #PensacolaStrong. I've seen the community prevail and come together through natural disasters, tragedies and a pandemic. The love and support this town continually shows us why Pensacola will always be home.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

I have a few in mind. "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did but people will never forget how you made them feel."—Maya Angelou; and "Don't expect others to understand your vision when God gave it to you."—my mom

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

No piece of writing is so trivial that it shouldn't be written well.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Atlantic, The New Yorker, Florida Law Weekly and VeloNews.

What's on your regular reading list?

My most recent read was "Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success" by Adam Grant. I also catch up on local news every morning.

inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Don't follow leaders; watch your parking meters.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Opening Odd Colony. We inherited a blank canvas, presenting the challenge of creating a unique experience reflective of our intent vision on fermentation. We somehow also found a way to meld vinyl records, wild Florida and craft beer all under one roof, which makes me pretty dang happy.

BRETT SCHWEIGERT

Founder/Brewer, Odd Colony Brewing Co. What makes your job 'click' for you?

The synchronizing of the product with the space, with the people, with the sound and with the vibe is a daunting cross to bear for a perfectionist. It haunts me ‌ but in a good way.

What's on your regular reading list?

Currently reading the "Historical Brewing Techniques: Lost Art of Farmhouse Brewing," Star Wars children's books (thanks to my sweet daughter Reese) and Sand County Almanac.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Family, friends and that little craft beer/wilderness sanctuary we created up on North Palafox. We're looking forward to continuing to work with local makers and growers as we pursue beer with a sense of place.

our team succeeds. We love celebrating wins throughout our community with so many local businesses.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Don't wait for the opportunity; create it.

CALI SCULLY

Digital Sales Manager, ADX Communications (Cat Country 98.7, NewsRadio 92.3, ESPN Pensacola 99.1, Pensacola's Playlist 94.5) What makes your job 'click' for you?

I feel like things just click when I see our local community partners and clients succeed. In my role, we work with businesses to develop customized marketing strategies, and when those businesses succeed,

January 28, 2021

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

My goodness, I have had so many over the years. Working social media coverage in Nashville during CMA week the year Cat Country won Station of the Year was very special. I also have been honored to be a part of building our digital sales department.

What's on your regular reading list?

I'll be honest, reading rarely happens. Working in radio, I definitely consume a lot of audio, though. So I have quite the list of podcasts.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Community, opportunity and family. Pensacola continues to see growth throughout our community, which breeds more opportunities to thrive. I have always said, while I am so grateful to have the opportunity to travel the world, I always return to Pensacola and am proud to call this city home.

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RISING STARS What's the best advice you've ever been given?

This Michelle Obama quote has always stuck with me—"I've sat at every powerful table you can think of—they're not that smart." When imposter syndrome creeps in, we need the confidence to proudly show up, sit at the table and have a voice.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

The best advice I've been given was from my mother. It's a bible verse that has stuck with me since I was a young child and can be applied to many situations. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."—Philippians 4:13

KATRINA SIMPKINS

Director of Employment & Support Services, Global Connections to Employment What makes your job 'click' for you?

I have always had a passion for serving and helping others. Our organization's mission statement is "Helping people throughout life's journey." The mission and values of our organization truly align with who I am as a person.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Our organization implemented a Disability Awareness & Social Inclusion Program in Colombia, South America. The program goals included disability awareness training for local employers and connecting individuals with disabilities to work. I quickly realized the impacts of this project after speaking directly to those individuals who successfully completed our program.

What's on your regular reading list?

I follow publications online, such as USA Today, Essence magazine, etc. I also like John Maxwell, Stephen Covey, Stacey Abrams, and Barack and Michelle Obama.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My passion is to help and serve others. My desire is to help and serve the individuals here in my own community.

Altitude Capital Congratulates Justin Loftin and all the Rising Stars selected in 2021.

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CLAIRE STEWART

Director of Communications and Special Projects for University Advancement, University of West Florida What makes your job 'click' for you?

The University of West Florida, UWF Historic Trust, Pensacola Museum of Art and WUWF Public Media are some of our most influential organizations, shaping the educational and cultural landscape of our community. I am so honored to work with them and contribute in any way to the work they do.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

My favorite career highlights include establishing a new magazine in Huntsville, Ala., with No'Ala Magazine, rebranding and renaming an entire university with Columbia Southern Education Group and working with the talented Advancement team that continues to break fundraising records each year at UWF in support of our students and community.

What's on your regular reading list?

Inweekly, WUWF, theSkimm, NPR and The Lily. I just finished Celeste Headlee's "We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter."

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Our growing and evolving downtown, a vibrant beach volleyball community and hot chicken tacos from Nomadic Eats.

2021 Rising Star

Justin Loftin Managing Partner

inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

My husband, family and employees always tell me to stay optimistic, and I always think of this quote—"Instead of worrying about what you cannot control, shift your energy to what you can create."—Roy T. Bennett

ALICIA TAYLOR-PRINTZ Owner, SoBo Boutique

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love helping my customers find items that they wear for the big moments in their life.

It is fulfilling to play a small part in those special occasions. I also love getting to know my customers, building relationships with them and seeing them return. It motivates me to keep going.

The Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition congratulates 2021 Rising Star Michael McCullough

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

In my first year as a member of The Junior League of Pensacola, I worked on a project aimed at helping underprivileged girls get dresses and everything they needed to attend their school's prom. The gratitude one particular girl expressed had a major impact on me.

What's on your regular reading list?

I have a ton on my reading list. For workrelated things, I read NRF and listen to podcasts like Girlboss Radio and Goal Digger.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

There's just nowhere like Pensacola. I always pictured myself staying in Atlanta after college, but I met my husband in 2011 and moved back home. I loved what Pensacola's downtown had become and always planned on opening a boutique. Pensacola has a perfect blend of small-town and city vibes.

wrong; never dwell on a mistake that can be corrected; never be too slow to recognize the value of your teammates."

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Honestly, the most rewarding project is the project that is never complete. As a construction attorney in Pensacola, I have the honor of advising some of the hardest working small business owners in our area. The most rewarding project is supporting them as they continue to grow through the years.

JOHN TERHAAR

Attorney, Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon What makes your job 'click' for you?

The team with whom I work. I have been lucky to find a team with ESC which prioritizes both personal relationships and professional growth. I feel that we are able to work collaboratively to ensure clients' needs come first.

What's on your regular reading list?

Inweekly, PNJ, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal (more of a daily skim than an in-depth read).

What keeps you in Pensacola?

During my four years on active duty, I moved three times and deployed twice. I have lived in six cities. Pensacola is unique. We have the amenities of a larger city in a town where reputations matter. People genuinely care about their neighbors here. Relationships matter and Pensacola knows that.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

I had a commanding officer once tell me, "Never be too quick to admit you are January 28, 2021

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RISING STARS VICTORIA THARPE

Lot Acquisition Analyst, Adams Homes What makes your job 'click' for you?

Making the goal of homeownership achievable to families throughout the Southeast.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Trust your instincts and surround yourself with people who will challenge you.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I worked with Auburn University's Dance Marathon for three years, where we raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the local Children's Miracle Network Hospital. That experience taught me how a small group of people can have a huge impact in the community.

What's on your regular reading list?

Inweekly, the Wall Street Journal, Bon Ap-

KRISTIE TOBIAS

Director, Consultant and National Speaker, Huron Consulting Group (formerly Studer Group); Author, "Fearlessly Made You" What makes your job 'click' for you?

Every day, I connect and engage with senior leadership teams, and we talk through the key questions of, "Where are your pain points?" and, "How can I set you and your team up for success?" It motivates me to know I am a part of optimizing their experiences and business success.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

My parents, especially my mother, have

What's on your regular reading list?

Oprah's SuperSoul Sunday podcast, "The Power of a Praying Woman" by Stormie Omartian, "Daring Greatly" by Brene Brown, "Eloquent Rage" by Brittney Cooper and "Present Over Perfect" by Shauna Niequist.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

When I was the Governance Operations Lead for Mayor Robinson's Transition Team, I was embedded in a rich population of minority professionals who have the opportunity to have their voices and experiences be heard in this community. As long as I am here, I want to represent our minority community.

MICHIE TRAN

Project Specialist, IRIS-Intelligent Retinal Imaging Systems What makes your job 'click' for you?

For me, being a part of a mission to save sight makes my job special. I get the opportunity to work with health care organizations large and small with the common goal of ending preventable blindness.

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What keeps you in Pensacola?

Family, the beaches and the opportunity to be a part of Pensacola's growth. The amount of change I've seen in the almost 10 years since going away for college has been so inspiring because of so many individuals stepping up to make this the ideal place to live and enjoy.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Finding another family with the IRON group. Experiencing and building the restaurant and transforming it over the years from Marcus Pointe to downtown to what it is today has been an opportunity I never imagined possible in Pensacola when I began at the golf course.

always driven my siblings and I to never allow ignorance or injustice to keep us from God's purpose in our lives. We have always been told we are the only version of ourselves and to never try to compare our journeys with anyone else's.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I was contacted by Pensacola-based Indigo River Publishing to release my first book this February—"Fearlessly Made You: Surviving and Thriving in A Perfectly Imperfect Life."

It's the story about my journey through PTSD and how I have learned to inspire others to own, love and celebrate life.

petit, and I listen to Pod Save the People and other news and culture podcasts.

What's on your regular reading list?

I read "Kitchen Confidential" by Anthony Bourdain every year, and every cook should. Adrenaline and inspiration doses from the master.

NOAH TOMKO

Sous Chef, Restaurant IRON What makes your job 'click' for you?

Learning and creating all at once. I love the order and rhythm of a kitchen line working in sync and executing a flawless service. If and when that order turns chaotic, getting through that chaos leaves a restaurant family bonded with fire, blood and after-shift drinks.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Most of my large, extended family live in Pensacola, plus I have great employers and coworkers, and have you seen the beaches?

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Travel and eat like a local.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Change is inevitable. How are you going to adapt?

What's on your regular reading list? theSkimm, local and national news outlets, Inweekly, Parents Magazine and various craft and food blogs.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

At my previous employer, I was part of a team that organized a recognition initiative that highlighted organizations and their achievements. We came up with the name of the initiative, logo and guidelines. It was extremely impactful to see it successfully implemented during a national conference.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Most of all, family keeps us here, but we love the area. It is a small town with bigcity aspirations. Growing up not too far from here, Pensacola is home, and it is a great place to raise our family.

inweekly.net

2021 What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Success is not just what you accomplish in your life; it is about what you inspire others to do. Every day is an opportunity for all of us to show others that they are seen and can accomplish their goals.

JESSI TRUETT

Director of Autism Spectrum Disorder Outpatient Services, Lakeview Center What makes your job 'click' for you?

Being a behavior analyst allows me to fuse two of my passions into an amazing position where I am able to make a difference in our community every day. I am able use my love for science to help others in our community reach their full potential by teaching new skills.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Building the Lakeview Center's Autism Outpatient Services Program has been an indescribable experience. We are able to educate local supports for families while also directly serving them with a trauma-informed approach to assist families throughout their journey.

What's on your regular reading list?

Mostly student research projects from UWF's Applied Behavior Analysis program.

However, I also enjoy reading manga with my daughter and Minecraft stories with my son.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

Since moving here, I have had many opportunities to learn from brilliant and servant leaders—from Dr. Anz at Andrews Institute, who works diligently to keep people active, to Dr. Ludergnani at Lakeview, who does not just serve the children of our area but focuses on supporting entire families.

GoGulfWinds.com/DropIt *APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Restrictions and criteria apply.

Discounted rate cannot be below the lowest rate for qualifying credit tier. Excludes current Gulf Winds loans. Promotion is subject to change without notice. Federally insured by NCUA.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Let your organization's mission guide your decisions. When faced with a tough choice, if the answer to the question, "Does this make our community a better place to live?" is yes, then you're doing the right thing.

DANIEL VENN

Director of Communications, Studer Entertainment & Retail What makes your job 'click' for you?

It's invigorating working for an organization that's dedicated to such a worthwhile mission—to improve the quality of life for the community. Approaching each day with that goal is highly motivating. Plus, getting to watch a whole lot of Blue Wahoos baseball is a nice perk.

January 28, 2021

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

"Home Run For Life" and "My Wish" celebrations at Blue Wahoos Stadium, which give children and elderly community members battling severe health issues an opportunity to be a star at the ballpark and share a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their families. Always unforgettable.

What's on your regular reading list?

"Building A Vibrant Community" by Quint Studer. Online, I follow as many social media managers as possible to learn how great sports teams engage with their fans.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

The great people I get to work with. The small-town feel with big-town amenities.

Plus, having grown up in Minnesota, being able to sit at the beach when I know it's snowing back "home" will never get old.

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RISING STARS INDREA WARREN, MBA, BSN, RN, FCN

Community Health Nurse Navigator, Faith Community Nurse Program Lead Faculty, Baptist Health Care What makes your job 'click' for you?

Knowing that at the end of the day the work that we do is helping make someone else's day, their experience and ultimately their lives just a little better. The added bonus is being able to serve God through helping His people.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

I think the best advice I've ever received wasn't necessarily told to me specifically, but rather it is the advice of life—"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

One of the first projects that comes to mind isn't the best per se, but it's a favorite and was a very rewarding experience. During nursing school, I collaborated with a local school for teen moms. We created a program that helped increase retention by providing childcare during school hours.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

"Just can't live that negative way; make way for a positive day." This resonates with me to remain positive throughout life whether a good or bad situation occurs.

D'ANGELO WEBB

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

The most rewarding project I have ever worked on was starting/serving on the board of directors for a nonprofit organization in Birmingham that served young men from the ages of 11-18. Through my years of service with this program, I was able to see young men evolve greatly.

Medical Device Sales Professional, Johnson & Johnson

What's on your regular reading list?

The Bible, plus financial literacy and real estate books.

What makes your job 'click' for you?

I enjoy my job because I get to aid in the process of patient safety and promoting a better quality of life. Working with some of the best surgeons in the area really makes my job easier.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

As a single man, the only thing that has kept me in Pensacola is my career, the neutral location of the city and the community relationships that I have cultivated over the years.

Guidance Counselor, Escambia County School District What makes your job 'click' for you?

I love what I do. Children bring so much joy to my life. It is also a joy to be able to share Kemetic Yoga with them. It is an honor to be able to help mold the lives of our future.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Never apologize for being yourself.

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What keeps you in Pensacola?

My family and the community of friends who have become family. I enjoy my work family and being directly involved in the community through various organizations, but especially through the work I do, day after day. My church family is amazing. Oh, and, of course, the beaches.

you. You don't have to compete or seek validation because the same stone that the builders once rejected became the same stone they depended on to hold everything together. The chief cornerstone be you.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

Myself. Being able to accept and truly be unapologetically Alicia. Which in turn, by taking the limitations off of who I was, I later received the Baptist Legends Award for being able to save someone else's life all while I was literally fighting for my own.

ALICIA WILLIAMS

Community Health Programs Navigator, Baptist Health Care Faith Health Network What makes your job 'click' for you?

The ability to be a reliable and valuable resource in a community I grew up in. Being able to "connect the dots" between our health care systems, congregations and the community.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

But God. What's for you will always be for

S. CAMELIA WILLIS

What's on your regular reading list?

My reading selection varies. I prefer novels as opposed to magazines, newspapers, etc.

I enjoy romance, drama, comedy, self-help and inspirational genres.

Tell us about the best/most rewarding project you've ever worked on.

I organized a winter hat and glove drive for the students at Montclair Elementary, where I am currently a guidance counselor. There were over 150 items donated by individuals and businesses from the community.

What's on your regular reading list?

The Bible, The Daily Bread, He Whispers My Name Daily Devotional, plus anything about psychology, mental health and ways to better our communities.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My husband and I were born and raised here, and since he works as an engineer offshore leaving out of New Orleans, it is an easy drive for him to and from work. He is not a fan of flying.

What keeps you in Pensacola?

My whole family was born and raised on the east side of Pensacola. The love of family, friends and the beach keep me in Pensacola. I also have a deep desire to help the community.

What's on your regular reading list?

A variety of self-help, healing and spiritual books along with Inweekly, Natural and Bella Magazine.

inweekly.net

Rising Stars JESSICA JOHNSON Wellness Case Manager, Institutional Equity and Student Conduct

SCOTT SCHACKMANN

Coordinator, Online Learning and Innovation Spanish Instructor

CONGRATULATIONS

PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE CONGRATULATES OUR 2021 RISING STARS

#GoHereGetThere January 28, 2021

PensacolaState.edu 37

Your Personal Injury Lawyers In Pensacola, Florida Since 1955 850-432-1111 | LevinLaw.com | Google Us

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inweekly.net

a&e happenings Attending "normal" events might not be happening yet—but that doesn't mean local businesses and nonprofits aren't still keeping the community connected in creative ways.

MARDI GRAS EVENTS

PENSACOLA BEACH MARDI GRAS, INC. BEAD GIVE AWAY Pensacola Mardi

Gras, Inc. will host a bead giveaway for kids from 2-3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30, in the Casino Beach parking lot, adjacent to the Pensacola Beach Visitor's Information Center. Mardi Gras goodie bags for kids and kritters will be set out on decorated tables for the grab-and-go event. The event is being hosted outside, and masks and social distancing are encouraged. For more information, visit pensacolabeachmardigras.com.

KIDS AND KRITTERS VIRTUAL PARADE The Kids and Kritters Virtual Parade will be a compilation of photos, videos and music to substitute for the in-person Mardi Gras walking procession. To participate, parents and pet owners should email a photo of their costumed child or pet to kandkparade@ gmail.com. The virtual parade will go live Saturday, Feb. 6, at 2 p.m. at pensacolabeachmardigras.com and facebook.com/ pensacolabeachmardigras.

MARDI GRAS-THEME LIGHTED BOAT PARADE The Pensacola Beach

Chamber of Commerce will host a Mardi Gras-themed lighted boat parade starting at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, from Sabine Marina in Little Sabine Bay. The parade will wind its way around the Santa Rosa Sound to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk and then circle back. Spectators can safely watch the parade from Little Sabine, the beach boardwalk and anywhere off the Santa Rosa Sound. For more information, visit pensacolabeachchamber.com.

MARDI GRAS TROT Capture the spirit

of the season with the Mardi Gras Trot. The celebration will take place across multiple outdoor venues from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, beginning at Perennial Patio Bar and ending four blocks away at Garden & Grain.

There will be live music and one-day-only special cocktails. Tickets are $25 in advance

and $30 on site. For more information, visit facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

NONPROFITS + FUNDRAISERS

CAT AND KITTEN ADOPTIONS THROUGH THE MONTH OF JANUARY Animal Allies will be hosting cat and kitten adoptions every Saturday and Sunday in January from noon-4 p.m. at PetSmart, 6251 N. Davis Highway. Many beautiful cats and kittens will be looking for their FUR-ever homes. Adoption fee includes shots, feline leukemia testing, spay/neuter and microchip. Adoption fees are $90 for kittens up to one year and $75 for adults. Learn to help cats in your neighborhood. Social distancing guidelines in place. Masks are required.

Located back in the cat adoption area.

CLINIC AT PENSACOLA HUMANE SOCIETY NOW PROVIDING WELLNESS SERVICES The Barbara Grice Memorial Clinic at Pensacola Humane Society is now offering low-cost wellness services each Friday for the public.

Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, microchipping, deworming, heartworm testing, ear cleaning and more.

Wellness visits are available on Fridays only from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Appointments are required and can be made online through the link on the Pensacola Humane Society website at pensacolahumane.org or Barbara Grice Memorial Clinic Facebook page or by calling 898-3380.

Spay/neuter surgery appointments are available Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and can be made as mentioned above. Drop off is at 7:30 am with 2 p.m. pick up for dogs and 3 p.m. pick up for cats. The Pensacola Humane Society and Barbara Grice Memorial Clinic are located at 5 N. Q St.

PENSACOLA HABITAT CELEBRATES 29 FAMILIES CLOSING ON HOMES IN 2020 Amid the great local need for

affordable homeownership, Pensacola Habitat finished up the year with 29 closings despite the pandemic and challenging hurricane season.

Though delays and setbacks had occurred with less than average volunteer participation due to COVID-19 safety precautions, the 29

closings took place. Three of them were on Dec. 16, just in time for Christmas.

"The experience with [Pensacola] Habitat was an amazing adventure. There was some good and not necessarily bad, just setbacks", said Danielle Johnson, one of the three homeowners who closed on their home in December.

The need for affordable homeownership has never been greater, especially after the challenging previous year. Pensacola Habitat for Humanity aims to serve as many individuals and families as possible and continues to grow. To learn more about how you can impact local families and make a difference, please visit pensacolahabitat.org/donate.

ARTS + CULTURE

CALL TO ARTISTS: CUBED 2021 The

Pensacola Museum of Art invites all artists to submit their mural ideas for a chance to participate in the Cubed 2021: Live Mural Painting Event. Artists must be available March 6-7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for the live painting of their mural. Each artist will be working with one side of an 8-by-8-foot cube in the UWF Historic Trust Museum Plaza. Cubed Mural Paintings will be on display for one year.

Interested artists are encouraged to submit a letter of intent for their mural and a link to their online portfolio or a selection of five to 10 works of art to pma@uwf.edu by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 1, 2021. Artists will receive a stipend of $250. Award notification will be Feb. 5, 2021. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org/call.html.

STAY-IN FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT West

Florida Public Libraries presents Family Movie Night. Come in and check out one of our Family Movie Night Bundles. Bundles include a family-friendly movie, a bag of microwave popcorn and a family-friendly activity. Movies can be checked out for seven days, and the rest is yours to keep.

DATES: •Friday, Jan. 29, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Pensacola Library and Molino Branch Library •Saturday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Pensacola Library and Molino Branch Library

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE PRESENTS: SING EASY Enjoy entertainment

from Pensacola talent in a safely-distanced, intimate speakeasy-style atmosphere from 7-9 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in January. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

STAND-UP COMEDY AT THE REX THEATRE Visit The REX Theatre every

Friday at 8 p.m. for national stand up acts.

On Jan. 29, Roger Keiss & William Sloan will be performing. Tickets are $26-$35 at the door. For more information, visit rexpensacola.com.

COMEDY MAGIC SHOW AT THE REX THEATRE Comedy magician Tom Coverly,

known as "The Illusionist," performs Saturday nights at The Rex Theatre, located at 18 N. Palafox. Shows start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10-$35. For more information, visit rexpensacola.com.

EXHIBITS AT PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART "Youth Art Focus" will be on dis-

play Jan. 22-Feb. 28. "Antarctica" is another new exhibit on view through April 4 at the downstairs gallery. Other exhibits include "Pretty/Ugly" the UWF BFA exit show of Madisen Pooton and "In Memoriam," from Panhandle Slim, which honors the lives of Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson, Airman Mohammed Haitham and Airman Cameron Walters, who were killed in a terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola. For more information and hours of operation, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

EXHIBITS AT ARTEL GALLERY Three new exhibits will be on display at Artel Gallery through Feb. 25. In the main gallery is "Celebrating Diversity" with various artists.

In the vault is "Black Arts Matter" from artists Carter J., Kenneth Burrell, Ashley Gibson, Alys Richardson and Bobby Booker.

And in the alcove is "Shadowland" by Diane Collins. For more information and hours of operation, visit artelgallery.org.

GREAT GULFCOAST ARTS FESTIVAL 2020 LIMITED-EDITION POSTER AVAILABLE ONLINE With the cancel-

Adoption • Paternity • Dependency/DCF Hearings Prenuptial Agreements • Postnuptial Agreements Divorce • Child Custody and Timesharing Child Support • Child Support Modifications Alimony • Collaborative Divorce • Divorce Mediation • Pre-Suit Family Law Mediation

127 Palafox Place Suite 100 (850)466-3115 autumnbeckblackledge.com January 28, 2021

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a&e happenings lation of this year's Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival due to COVID-19, the festival committee invited local artist Kreg Yingst to create a poster for 2020 in his original woodcut print design.

The 250 limited-edition posters are each signed and numbered by the artist.

Festival posters have become a local collector's item and are available online this year only. The posters are available at ggaf.org for $27, including shipping and sales tax.

Yingst, a long-time GGAF artist, received his B.A. from Trinity University in San Antonio after attending the University of Texas and his M.A. in painting from Eastern Illinois University. After graduation, he taught art for 13 years and has been a full-time artist since 2003.

The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival returns Nov. 5, 6 and 7, 2021, at Seville Square, Fountain Park, Bartram Park and Museum Plaza in Downtown Pensacola.

DRAG SHOWS AT DOLCE AND GELATO Bring your singles for live drag shows at Dolce and Gelato, located at 2050 N. 12th Ave. Dates include 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ dolcegelatopensacola

PENSACOLA OPERA AL FRESCO Pen-

sacola Opera's outdoor live concerts return Saturday, Feb. 6, at 3 p.m. in Seville Square. For more information, visit pensacolaopera.com.

OPERALIVE: THROWBACK THURSDAYS Take a walk down memory lane with

friends of the Pensacola Opera. Learn more about the craft and look back on past productions with live discussions on Facebook Live Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Viewers are encouraged to join in the conversation. Tune in at facebook.com/pensacolaopera.

NEW CLASSES AT MIXON MAGIC PERFORMING ARTS Mixon Magic Per-

forming Arts (MMPA), a boutique performing arts studio located at 1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 238, will be offering a limited class schedule this fall. MMPA offers professional dance, fitness and "Mommy and Me" instruction for all ages and skill levels with weekly classes including, but not limited to,

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Creative Movement, Ballet/Jazz Combo, Broadway, Tap, Showstoppers, Acting and Voice. Classes will be provided for children as young as 2 years old (with a parent or guardian) through adult.

MMPA is dedicated to the safety and well-being of all students and families and has implemented protocols based on guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Masks are required for entry into the building and studio. More information about Mixon Magic Performing Arts can be found at mixonmagic.com, by contacting hello@mixonmagic.com or emily@mixonmagic.com or by calling 221-7438.

NEW SHOWING AT PENSACOLA CINEMA ART "Two of Us" will be showing

at Pensacola Cinema Art Friday and Saturday, Feb. 5 and 6, at 1 p.m. at the Studer Community Institute building, 220 W. Garden St. Admission is $7. Face masks are required, and there will be 50% maximum seating capacity. Tickets can be reserved by calling or texting 863-446-7300 or emailing jpncinema@gmail.com. For more information, visit pensacolacinemaart.com.

BLACK CITIZENSHIP IN THE AGE OF JIM CROW On view at Voices of Pensacola

is "Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow," a traveling exhibit from the New York Historical Society Museum & Library with additions from the African American Heritage Society of Pensacola. To learn more about it, visit africanamericanheritagesociety.org. Voices of Pensacola is located at 117 E. Government St. and open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CRAFT CLASSES AT STUDIO SOUTH ON NINE MILE Learn a new craft or meet up with other makers at Studio South. Tuesday is Knit Night 4-7 p.m., and Sit & Stitch is Saturdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Both classes are free. On Wednesday, Feb. 6, a new fiber club, "Spinning in the Studio," begins at 3 p.m. For a full calendar of events, visit studiosouthon9mileroad.com. Studio South is located at 955 E. Nine Mile Road.

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS AT FIRST CITY ART First City Art Center of-

fers a wide range of classes and workshops

for artists of all levels. Classes include glass blowing, ceramics, painting and drawing, kiln-forming, stained glass and more. For a complete list of classes and times, visit firstcityart.org.

GALLERY NIGHT PENSACOLA PRESENTS: ARTIST TALKS Join Gallery Night

Director Sydney Robinson as she interviews Pensacola area artists about their creative process. The Artist Talks series is a biweekly virtual event available on Facebook Live. Join in by visiting facebook.com/ gallerynightpensacola.

LIVE MUSIC AT HUB STACEY'S Sit back

with good food and live music at Hub Stacey's, located at 312 E. Government St. For a full calendar of bands, check hubstaceys.com.

MONDAY NIGHT BLUES AT SEVILLE QUARTER Seville Quarter and the Blues Society of Northwest Florida bring the "Blues" back to the Seville Quarter Entertainment District, located at 130 E. Government St. every Monday night in End O' the Alley starting at 7 p.m. For more information, visit sevillequarter.com.

TUESDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT SEVILLE QUARTER Enjoy smooth jazz with Me-

SUNDAYS ON THE MEZZANINE Enjoy a full-length concert series every other Sunday at 3 p.m. on Facebook. Tickets are $9.99 and can be purchased online at facebook.com/pensacolaopera.

lodious Allen and The Funk Heads every Tuesday night at Lili Marlene's in Seville Quarter, located at 130 E. Government St. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Visit sevillequarter. com for more information.

LIVE MUSIC

FITNESS + RECREATION

JAY MOODY LIVE Musician Jay Moody will

be performing at Gary's Brewery & Biergarten Saturday, Jan. 30, starting at 6 p.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/garysbrew.

JAZZ JAM Join Jazz Pensacola for its February Jazz Jam at The 5 Barrel, 121 S. Palafox. The show starts at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 3. Roger Villines will be on trumpet, Bryce Lyublanovitz on keys, Joe Murphy on bass and Fred Domulot on drums. Donations accepted. For more information, visit jazzpensacola.com.

CURT BOL JAZZ QUARTET Visit Five

Sisters Blues Café, located at 421 W. Belmont St., Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and listen to Curt Bol Jazz Quartet. Visit curtbolband.com for more information.

OPEN JAM AT ARTEL GALLERY Artel Gallery is open from 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays for open jam with Pensacola Folk Music Society. Feel free to visit and listen to music. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox.

KARAOKE AT MUGS AND JUGS Sing

your heart out Sundays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway, or just enjoy drinks friends with $4 Smirnoff and $6.50 domestic pitcher drink deals from 7 p.m.-3 a.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/mugsjugs.

PENSACOLA ICE FLYERS HOME GAMES Pensacola Ice Flyers 2020-2021

season has begun. Tickets are sold in groups of two starting at $18. Tickets for groups of three or more are also available, and prices vary. To purchase tickets, go to ticketmaster.com. Home games are at the Pensacola Bay Center, located at 201 E. Gregory St. For more information, visit pensacolaiceflyers.com.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES: •7:35 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29 vs Birmingham •7:05 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30 vs Macon

COLLEGE BASEBALL AT BLUE WAHOOS STADIUM Blue Wahoos stadium

will host its first baseball games of the new year on Saturday, Jan. 30, with Pensacola State College, Northwest Florida State College and Coastal Alabama Community College in a three-game day-long tournament.

The three-game slate begins at 11 a.m. Each game will be seven innings. Tickets at $7-$10.

Face masks are required at the stadium but can be removed while people are seated with proper physical distancing from others. For more information, visit bluewahoos.com.

PUBLIC ICE SKATING AT PENSACOLA BAY CENTER The Pensacola Bay Center will be open for ice skating. All sessions will

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a&e happenings be at a reduced capacity to maintain social distancing, and only one spectator is allowed per skater. Tickets are $12 for adults and children with skate rental or $9 for adults and children without skate rental.

Groups of 15 or more receive a reduced rate of $10. Purchase tickets at pensacolabaycenter.com DATES: •10:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29 •10:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30 •1:30 and 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 31

K-9 PALOOZA 2021 Spectators are

welcome to watch dog competitions and sports during a four-day action-packed event, Jan 28-31, at the Escambia County Equestrian Center, 7750 Mobile Highway.

Dogs of many breeds and their handlers will participate in Obedience and Rally, Barn Hunt and FastCAT competitions throughout the day and Obedience practices and Agility fun practices in late afternoon.

Spectator admissions are $2/person over 12 years or $5/family, and seating is in the bleachers. Unentered, noncompeting dogs are not eligible to attend. Food truck on site.

Visit fiveflagsdogs.com for more information.

DOUBLE BRIDGE RUN ANNOUNCED FOR FEB. 6 Pensacola Sports has an-

nounced the course for 2021 Double Bridge Run Presented by Publix, which will go on as scheduled on Saturday, Feb. 6. The longer

January 28, 2021

race will keep its normal 15K length, but to accommodate the necessary course changes and to have the same start and finish areas for both races, the usual 5K races will become a very unique and challenging 6K. Both races will begin in front of the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. The 15K will run east toward Portofino, turn around and run over Bob Sikes Bridge into Gulf Breeze. The run continues over a quarter of a mile on the Gulf Breeze side of the Pensacola Bay Bridge before heading back to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk finish line. The 6K participants will head out of the beach parking lot, run over the Bob Sikes Bridge, turn around and come back over the Bob Sikes Bridge and finish at the same finish line.

Registration is open at doublebridgerun.com.

A complete COVID-19 safety plan will be in place for the race and can be found on the event website. The plan includes more spread-out starting corrals, masking requirement, post-race party protocol, reduced touch points and other safety procedures.

PENSACOLA SPORTS LAUNCHES HOLE-IN-ONE MILLION DOLLAR SHOOTOUT Pensacola Sports, along with

several area golf courses, announced a new golf program to build excitement in the local golf scene. The program includes Marcus Pointe Golf Club, Scenic Hills Country Club and Tiger Point Golf Club.

All golfers can choose to participate when they sign in at the respective pro shop before their round. All participating golfers from all three courses will be entered into the same pool, increasing the amount the golfer can win. The entry fee is $3, and that entry is valid for that round only. If a participating golfer hits a legitimate hole-in-one, after proper verification, the golfer will win a third of the entire pot, with a minimum guaranteed winnings of $200. Full rules and event information can be found at pensacolasports.org/holeinone.

In addition to the original winnings, all players who hit a hole-in-one during the program will be invited to participate in a $1 Million Dollar Shootout. The date and location of the Pensacola Sports' Million Dollar Shootout will be announced at a later date.

Players who make a hole-in-one must notify Pensacola Sports with their information that day. If multiple holes-in-one are hit in the same day, the prize will be divided evenly. The competition starts over immediately after a qualified winner is determined. There are approximately 144 reported holes-in-one at the Pensacola area courses annually.

The Pensacola Sports' Hole-in-One Million Dollar Shootout is also a fundraiser for Pensacola Sports, a private not-forprofit sports event and tourism company.

RELEASE & RENEW AT FITNESS IMPACT TRAINING At 8:15 a.m. on Mon-

days, Wednesdays and Fridays, release into a yin yoga flow centered around low-stress training for high-stress individuals. The focus will be on the basics of breath and openness in the shoulders, hips and spine.

For more info, go to mindandmetta.online.

Cost is $12 per class, and the location is 375 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. B. Limited space available. Ask about membership pricing.

GULF COAST BREWERY RUN Thursdays at 6 p.m., join Pensacola Runners Association for a 5K fun run. Enjoy a free beer after the run and complimentary games such as cornhole, ping pong and more. Gulf Coast Brewery is located at 500 E. Heinberg St. For more information, visit facebook.com/gulfcoastbrewery.

BEER GARDEN YOGA Join Coastal County Brewing Company Saturdays at 9 a.m. for the new Yoga in the Garden Series.

Classes will be led by Tara Taylor, a highly experienced instructor from Breathe Pensacola. All skill levels are welcome. Cost is $10 and includes a pint of beer after the class.

Coastal County Brewing Company is located at 3041 E. Olive Road. For more information, visit facebook.com/coastalcounty. for more listings visit inweekly.net

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free will astrology WEEK OF JANUARY 28 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): In the

1950 film "Harvey," James Stewart plays a middle-aged man named Elwood whose best friend is a tall invisible rabbit named Harvey.

The relationship causes problems with the people in Elwood's life. At one point a psychiatrist tries to convince him to "struggle with reality." Elwood replies, "I wrestled with reality for 40 years and I am happy to state that I finally won." I'm happy to tell you this story, Aries, because it's a good lead in to my counsel for you: I suspect that one of your long wrestles with reality will yield at least a partial victory in the coming weeks.

And it will be completely real, as opposed to Elwood's Harvey. Congratulations!

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): The light

of the North Star takes a long time to reach us, even though it's traveling 186,000 miles per second. The beams it shows us tonight first embarked when Shakespeare was alive on Earth. And yet that glow seems so fresh and pure. Are there any other phenomena in your life that are metaphorically comparable? Perhaps an experience you had months ago that is only now revealing its complete meaning? Or a seed you planted years ago that is finally ripening into its mature expression? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to take inventory of such things, Taurus. It will also be a favorable phase to initiate innovations that will take some time to become fully useful for you.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): In 1971,

astronaut Alan Shepard had the great privilege of landing on the moon in a spacecraft, then walking on the lunar surface. How did he celebrate this epic holy adventure?

By reciting a stirring passage from Shakespeare or the Talmud? By placing a framed photo of Amelia Earhart or a statue of Icarus in the dirt? By saying a prayer to his God or thoughtfully thanking the people who helped put him there? No. Shepard used this sublime one-of-a-kind moment to hit a golf ball with a golf club. I'll ask you not to regard him as a role model in the coming weeks. When your sacred or lofty moments

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arrive, offer proper homage and honor. Be righteously appreciative of your blessings.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): William Shakespeare worked with another playwright in creating three plays—"Henry VIII," "The Two Noble Kinsmen" and "Cardenio." The lucky collaborator was John Fletcher, who was popular and influential in his era. I propose that we name him one of your role models in 2021. Here's why—You will have an enhanced potential to engage in fertile partnerships with allies who are quite worthy of you. I encourage you to be on the lookout for opportunities to thrive on symbiosis and synergy.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Canadian journal-

ist Nick Ashdown is amazed that white people in North America are so inhibited about revealing their real feelings. He writes, "How bizarre that in English, the word 'emotional' is used pejoratively, as though passion implies some sort of weakness." He marvels that the culture seems to "worship nonchalance" and regard intense expressiveness as uncool or unprofessional. I'm going to encourage you to embody a different approach in the coming days. I don't mean to suggest that you should be an out-of-control maniac constantly exploding with intensity. But I do hope you will take extra measures to respect and explore and reveal the spirited truth about yourself.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): Virgo actor Ingrid Bergman appeared in three movies directed by Alfred Hitchcock. In "Notorious," set after the end of World War II, she played the daughter of a Nazi spy. During the filming, Bergman had trouble with a particular scene. She explained her doubts to Hitchcock, saying, "I don't think I can do that naturally." Hitchcock seemed receptive to her input, but in the end had an unexpected response: "All right," he told her.

"If you can't do it naturally, then fake it." I'm going to suggest that you follow Hitchcock's advice during the next two weeks, Virgo. "Fake it till you make it" is an acceptable—probably preferable—approach.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): The 17th-

century Libran polymath Thomas Browne

had a brilliant, well-educated mind. He authored many books on various subjects, from science to religion, and was second only to Shakespeare in the art of coining new words. He did have a blind spot, however. He referred to sex as the "trivial and vulgar way of union" and "the foolishest act a wise man commits in all his life." Most of us have pockets of ignorance like that—aspects that qualify as learning disabilities or intellectual black holes. And now and then there come times when we benefit from checking in with these deficiencies and deciding whether to take any fresh steps to wisen them up. Now is such a time for you.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): "There is no sunrise so beautiful that it is worth waking me up to see it," declares actor and comedian Mindy Kaling. Is that an unromantic sentiment? Maybe. But more importantly, it's evidence that she treasures her sleep. And that's admirable! She is devoted to giving her body the nurturing it needs to be healthy. Let's make Kaling your patron saint for now. It's a favorable time to upgrade your strategies for taking very good care of yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): All of us go through phases when our brains work at a higher level than usual. I'm guessing that you're about to enjoy one of these times. In fact, I won't be shocked if you string together a series of ingenious thoughts and actions. I hope you use your enhanced intelligence for important matters—like making practical improvements in your life! Please don't waste it on trivial matters like arguments on Facebook or Twitter.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19):

Today the Capricorn artist Paul Cézanne (1839–1906) is regarded as an important and influential painter. Early in his career, though, he was rejected and even ridiculed by critics. One reason was that he loved making still-life paintings, which were considered low art. Of his 584 works, about 200 of them were of inanimate, commonplace objects. Fruit was his specialty. Typically he might spend 100 separate sessions in perfecting a particular bowl of apples. "Don't

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you want to take a vacation from painting fruit?" he was asked. In response, he said that simply shifting the location of his easel in relation to his subject matter was almost more excitement than he could bear. That's the kind of focused, detailed attitude I hope you'll cultivate toward your own labors of love during the coming weeks, Capricorn.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): "We all

want everything to be okay," writes author David Levithan. "We don't even wish so much for fantastic or marvelous or outstanding. We will happily settle for okay, because most of the time, okay is enough." To that mediocre manifesto, I reply, okay. I accept that it's true for many people. But I don't think it will apply to you Aquarians in the coming weeks. According to my assessment of your astrological potentials, you can, if you want, have a series of appointments with the fantastic, the marvelous and the outstanding.

Please keep those appointments! Don't skip them out of timidity or excess humility.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): DON'Ts— Don't keep scratching an old wound until it bleeds. Don't try to snatch away the teddy bear that belongs to the 800-pound gorilla.

Don't try to relieve your tension by pounding your head against a wall. Don't try to convince a stone idol to show you some tenderness. Dos—Do ask supposedly naive questions that may yield liberating revelations. Do keep in mind that sometimes things need to be a bit broken before you'll be motivated to give them all the care they need and deserve. Do extinguish the fire on a burning bridge, and then repair the bridge.

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: I believe that you can't get what you want from another person until you're able to give it to yourself.

Do you think that's true?

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freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com Rob Brezsny © Copyright 2021

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news of the weird TOO HOT TO HANDLE The Sun reported on Jan. 18 that a woman in the United Kingdom suffered an "inferno" in her living room after a candle exploded as she was lighting it. Jody Thompson, 50, won the candle, labeled "This Candle Smells Like My Vagina," in an online quiz from Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop website. "The candle exploded and emitted huge flames," Thompson said, "with bits flying everywhere. The whole thing was ablaze and it was too hot to touch." Thompson and her partner "eventually got it under control and threw it out the front door."

IN PLANE SIGHT On Jan. 16 at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, two employees of United Airlines approached a man and asked for his ID. Aditya Singh, 36, of Orange, California, produced an employee badge, but it was not his: Another employee had reported it missing on Oct. 26, the Chicago Tribune reported. Authorities said Singh had arrived at O'Hare on Oct. 19 from Los Angeles and was too afraid to fly back home because of COVID-19, so he hid in a secured area of the airport for three months, living off food given to him by strangers. Singh is unemployed but has a master's degree in hospitality and doesn't have a criminal background. He was charged with felony criminal trespass.

THE DEVIL MADE THEM DO IT Members of Poughkeepsie, New York's Church of Satan are down in the dumps this week after someone torched their gathering place, known as "Halloween House," on Jan. 14. According to the Poughkeepsie Journal, video footage shows a person carrying two gas cans, splashing liquid on the front porch, lighting it and running away.

Two people who were inside at the time escaped unharmed; the arsonist has not been caught. "Sadly there are some 'people of faith' who are intolerant, and typically ignorant, of other belief systems," noted Church of Satan high priest Peter H. Gilmore. Church member Isis Vermouth called the arson a "terror attack. Whoever did this is going to be hexed by all of us," she said.

"I just don't understand why anyone would want to piss off Satanic witches. 'Cause now there's going to be hell to pay."

UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT Nicholas Debetes, 18, was finally placed in handcuffs in Titusville, Florida, on Jan. 14, after Brevard County officers chased him as he drove "at an extremely high rate of speed" to his mother's trailer. Debetes, Click Orlando reported, had a unique excuse: "If I would have tried to stop quicker I would have crashed the vehicle," he told police.

He went on to say that his mother wanted him home for an unknown reason. Debetes had an outstanding warrant and was driving a stolen Hyundai Elantra.

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

POLICE REPORT In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Curtis McCoy, 46, and his husband of 10 years got into a spat "that escalated since they have been drinking alcohol" on Jan. 17, police reported. The argument got out of hand when McCoy "brought up how the victim has only one testicle which caused the victim to get upset," according to The Smoking Gun. When the victim pointed his finger at McCoy, he grabbed and twisted it, "causing him pain." McCoy was arrested for domestic violence; his criminal history includes shoplifting, disorderly conduct, assault, larceny and other offenses.

IRONY Esequiel Robles, 40, was caught after a traffic stop in Williston, North Dakota, with methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia on Jan. 14. The Smoking Gun reported that Robles was on probation for narcotics possession at the time, following a 2019 conviction for meth possession. Notably, however, when Robles was arrested, he was wearing a T-shirt with the message, "Don't Do Drugs." Do as I say, not as I do.

LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINALS On Jan. 7, police received a call from a 7-Eleven store in Lehi, Utah, where earlier in the day a man wearing a "sheriff's deputy" jacket stole a doughnut, then left in a white pickup truck. KUTV reported that Lehi police examined surveillance video and tracked the truck to a nearby motel parking lot, where they knocked on the door of 47-year-old Daniel Mark Wright, who was staying there. As officers spoke with Wright, they saw a Salt Lake County Sheriff's jacket hanging in the room's closet.

They arrested Wright for impersonation of an officer and theft, along with receiving or transfer of a stolen vehicle in relation to the truck. Wright, his companion, Christian Olson, and another accomplice are also under investigation for racketeering. •Leobardo Hernandez, 32, of Pomona, California, went to extraordinary lengths on Jan. 16 to evade police after allegedly stealing a car. As Hernandez ran from officers, he entered an apartment complex and found an unlocked door, the Daily Bulletin reported.

The apartment residents were not at home, so Hernandez moved right in, shaving his face, changing clothes and even cooking tortillas to make it seem as if he lived there.

Unfortunately, he also burned the tortillas, summoning the fire department. Hernandez eventually surrendered and was charged with burglary and possession of a stolen vehicle among other offenses. {in}

From Andrews McMeel Syndication News Of The Weird Š 2021 Andrews McMeel

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com January 28, 2021

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Independent News | January 28, 2021 | inweekly.net