ver the past two decades, Pensacola has undergone a remarkable transformation — one that most communities envy. Many have contributed their time, talents and money to make this progress possible, but none more so than Quint and Rishy Studer.
Their impressive portfolio of projects and accomplishments is much too long to list here, but it begins with the Studer Group, which provides hundreds with attractive healthcare careers. It includes major contributions to the Community Maritime Park, Maritime Place Office Building, the Bear Levin Studer YMCA, the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, The Bodacious Shops Downtown, 511, Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel, and of course, our Blue Wahoos AA baseball team.
We have all benefited from the vision, desire, and commitment to follow through, which has helped to make lives better for many in Northwest Florida.
Although no advertisement can ever do justice to the contributions of Quint and Rishy, many within the Pensacola community wanted to show their gratitude. We appreciate your positive impact on our city.
winners & losers
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winners losers
ALEX GARTNER The executive and artistic director of the Pensacola Children's Chorus (PCC) has received the 2025 Louis Botto Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Chorus America. He is the first youth choir director to win this honor in its 27-year history. Since 2016, Gartner has transformed PCC from a single choir into 14 diverse ensembles serving Northwest Florida and Southwest Alabama. His "Triple-A Commitment" provides Affordable and Accessible Arts through sliding-scale tuition, removing financial barriers for participants. He has forged partnerships with local arts organizations and created community programs like Sing to Succeed, bringing free singing opportunities to under-resourced youth throughout the region.
DENISE SIMMONS Escambia County Public Schools' Office of Community Involvement recognized Pine Meadow Elementary's Denise Simmons as the Stellar Employee of the Year for 2025. Simmons serves as the administrative clerk at Pine Meadow Elementary. She has been with the district for 26 years and has dedicated 10 years to Pine Meadow. The district said Simmons consistently exemplifies the essential qualities expected of an administrative clerk. As the first point of contact for parents and students at Pine Meadow, she welcomes everyone with a friendly smile and greets them by name, helping to foster a welcoming and supportive environment. Her approachable demeanor ensures all stakeholders feel comfortable when discussing any questions or concerns they may have.
EMERGENCY CARE PARTNERS
The Pensacola-based healthcare leader has secured a commanding position in the emergency medicine sector following a successful $100 million recapitalization led by MidOcean Partners. The Emergency Care Partners (ECP) operates a network serving 1.5 million patients annually across 63 locations with more than 1,100 emergency physicians. MidOcean's investment positions ECP ahead of competitors while providing crucial liquidity for physician shareholders and fuel for aggressive expansion. CEO Bill Yarbrough emphasized their winning partnership model with like-minded physician groups. With backing from three premier healthcare investment firms—MidOcean, Varsity Healthcare Partners and Regal Healthcare Capital Partners—ECP has assembled the resources and expertise needed to capture opportunities in the rapidly evolving emergency medicine landscape.
MICHELLE SALZMAN The Cantonment state lawmaker avoids few bandwagons, but what's strange about her viewpoint in the Pensacola News Journal praising the new University of West Florida (UWF) interim president is the credit she attributes to Gov. Ron DeSantis for "his exceptional appointment of Manny Diaz, Jr., as UWF's next president." However, it was the UWF Board of Trustees that selected Florida Education Commissioner Diaz as the interim president, not Gov. DeSantis. Once again, the lawmaker said the quiet part aloud. We all suspect Gov. DeSantis' office orchestrated putting Diaz in charge of UWF. Salzman accidentally spilled the beans and confirmed the fix was in.
PAM CHILDERS In February, Escambia County Finance Director Stephan Hall and the Tourism Development Council begged the Clerk's office for a checklist for vendors to follow "so that everyone understands what the expectation is to provide when they submit for the reimbursement of the use of the funds." At the time, Childers was withholding over $1.1 million owed to Visit Pensacola. As of the end of May, the outstanding amount has more than doubled, putting one of the largest sectors of Escambia County's economy in turmoil. The Clerk has even refused to pay the routine water, electric and phone bills of the Pensacola Visitors Center. She has not reimbursed payroll for 2025. When Visit Pensacola requested a meeting in mid-May, Childers put them off until June 4.
TOWN OF CENTURY In the latest segment of "As the Century Turns," a bank deposit mystery has officially reached peak bureaucratic absurdity. A former Town of Century employee apparently managed to "forget" more than $11,000 worth of utility payments. The employee's brilliant defense? She was "sick or gone from work"— except investigators discovered she was walking around town on the missing deposit dates. When confronted, she admitted to treating deposits like dirty laundry—letting them pile up for days before dealing with them. Despite mountains of evidence, and what sounds like a confession worthy of a true crime podcast, Judge Scott Ritchie said "nah" to the arrest warrant without explanation, officially closing the case and leaving Century taxpayers wondering if accountability went the way of their missing deposits.
Alex Gartner / Photo Courtesy of Pensacola Children's Chorus
Michelle Salzman / Photo Courtesy of flhouse.gov
outtakes
By Rick Outzen
POWER UNCHECKED
Nearly 25 years have passed since W.D. Childers transformed Escambia County government into his personal kingdom, yet the lessons from his spectacular fall remain painfully relevant today. As County Clerk Pam Childers now creates chaos in the same courthouse, we are reminded that corruption is not just about individual bad actors; it's about systems that allow unchecked authority to flourish.
W.D. didn't stumble into corruption; he crafted it with the precision of a master politician. This wasn't some bumbling county commissioner taking a few bribes under the table. This was a former state senator who understood exactly how power operates and wasn't afraid to weaponize every tool at his disposal. The "Banty Rooster" brought three decades of Tallahassee muscle to local government and proceeded to run Escambia County like a medieval fiefdom.
He didn't just strong-arm his way to power; he systematically dismantled the checks and balances that should have constrained him. Late-night meetings with agenda items added after reporters had left the chambers became the norm. Rushed votes on million-dollar land deals replaced a deliberative process. When Commissioner Tom Banjanin dared to say, "I smell a rat," he voiced what everyone knew but few had the courage to articulate.
The collard green pot filled with cash wasn't just a bizarre detail; it was a symbol of how thoroughly Childers had corrupted the democratic process. That pot, allegedly containing $100,000 in bribes, represented the transformation of public service into private enrichment. It showed how a man who had sworn to serve the people had instead turned to making staff, vendors and the public dance to his tune.
But perhaps the most chilling aspect of the Childers operation was the climate of fear he fostered. Vendors whispered about having their arms twisted. County employees walked on eggshells. This newspaper faced threats and advertiser boycotts for daring to investigate. This wasn't just corruption—it was authoritarian control at the local level, cutting out citizens from access to their deliberations.
The tragic suicide of Willie Junior, Childers' co-conspirator who chose antifreeze instead of facing the consequences of his testimony, serves as a stark reminder of corruption's human cost.
Junior wasn't just a corrupt politician; he was a man trapped in a web of criminality who saw no way out. His death stands as perhaps the most heartbreaking casualty of Childers' reign.
What makes this story particularly relevant today is how it demonstrates the crucial role of investigative journalism in holding power accountable. While the daily newspaper celebrated Childers' "efficiency," it took this weekly publication's willingness to ask uncomfortable questions to expose the truth. The threats, advertiser boycotts and personal attacks that followed illustrate why others choose the safer path of cheerleading rather than watchdogging.
The fact that we're now dealing with Pam Childers creating havoc in the same institution that W.D. Childers corrupted raises uncomfortable questions. Her refusal to pay millions in tourism invoices, potentially forcing Visit Pensacola to exhaust its reserves, has placed our economy in turmoil. Though two Childers have deployed different methods from different positions of power, the same disregard for responsible governance is displayed.
This pattern should terrify every citizen who believes in accountable government. When public officials can act with impunity, oversight mechanisms fail, and media coverage focuses on personalities rather than performance, corruption becomes inevitable. The Childers saga wasn't an anomaly—it was the predictable result of a system that had forgotten its fundamental purpose.
The lesson here is not just about individual corruption but about institutional vigilance. Democracy requires continuous maintenance. It demands citizens who ask tough questions, journalists who investigate uncomfortable truths and officials who remember that they work for the people, not the other way around.
As we observe the current Childers story unfold, we must ask ourselves: What safeguards exist today that didn't exist 25 years ago? What mechanisms prevent another would-be political boss from turning public service into a fiefdom? The answers to these questions will determine whether we've learned from this dark chapter or are doomed to repeat it.
The "Banty Rooster" may be gone, but his legacy lives on as a cautionary tale about what happens when power goes unchecked and citizens stop paying attention. {in} rick@inweekly.net
CHILDCARE CRISIS DIAGNOSED
By Rick Outzen
Lindsey Cannon, Bruce Watson and dozens of other childcare service providers walked out of City Hall last week with an unusual feeling: optimism.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves hosted a Childcare Summit that brought together local stakeholders for the first of two phases to tackle the childcare crisis head-on. Phase 1 focused on diagnosing the problem. The summit included hearing from childcare service providers outside the region and being presented with actionable steps to take, as opposed to futile dialogue typical of past meetings.
"It's the first time in my association with the city that a mayor has actually expressed an interest in childcare, and I'm encouraged by that," said Watson, executive director of the Early Learning Coalition of Escambia County. "I walked away with a good feeling that he intends to do something. He didn't come there to just talk about the problems."
Inadequate early childhood education is a black eye on the county. The county consistently ranks near the bottom of the state in kindergarten readiness rates—although, the last reported assessment perhaps marked a turning point. In fall 2023, the county ranked in the middle of the pack of 67 with a 50% kindergarten readiness rate based on the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) Star Early Literacy. The 50% pass rate marked a four-percentage point im-
provement from 2022, when the county tied for 46th in kindergarten readiness rate.
The importance of early childhood education is unmistakable based on the kindergarten readiness rates. In 2023, students enrolled in VPK tested ready at a 64% clip compared to only 38% for those who did not attend VPK.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY MODEL
Reeves attracted experts from outside the region to share their success stories, including Miami-Dade County. The local contingent listened to how the Miami-Dade County Children's Trust made remarkable inroads with its "Thrive by 5" initiative.
Executive Director Jim Hodge shared how its Early Learning Quality Improvement System invests in strategies to prepare children for kindergarten through physical and cognitive skill developments, in addition to social and emotional health and behavior.
"There are a lot of other areas that have really strong support around early childhood," said Cannon, executive director of the Escambia Children's Trust. "Miami's graduation rates are higher than ours. Ask how and Jim will say, 'You know how we got there? By investing in zero-5.' This did not happen overnight. We're getting the blessing of seeing it nine years down the line and seeing the benefits."
No one is confusing Pensacola for Miami, but Reeves considers the Thrive by 5 initiative and other programs implemented by the Miami-Dade Children's Trust to be replicable in Escambia.
people to do this important work and minimum wage isn't going to cut it."
He added, "When you can walk down to McDonald's and make $2 to $3 more, it's hard to compete. We've got the buildings. We've got the tools and equipment. We need the people."
Summit participants discussed another issue, causing a decline in the number of early childhood educators. They lamented the absence of early childhood education courses at the University of West Florida (UWF). The university used to offer an early learning degree path.
However, UWF offers training for childcare providers. In 2023, the Early Learning Coalition partnered with the Florida SBDC at UWF to mentor early childhood providers on how to operate a business. That partnership is still intact, but the series is only putting a tiny dent in the problem.
A deep dive into all the factors contributing to the crisis and identifying potential remedies is exactly why Reeves organized the summit.
"Let's find out where the pain points are to have increased access to quality childcare," Reeves said. "How do we train the trainers? How do we have better training for folks, so we have a larger pool of people qualified to work at these daycares?"
PHASE 2
"There's nothing that bothers me more than when we rationalize inaction by saying, 'Well, that's Miami and this is Pensacola,'" Reeves said. "We can find solutions that get us to a better place than we are today. And I think a lot of times in not just the job here—I mean in any subject around here—over many years of time, we talk about stuff, and then we say, 'Well, that can't be us.'"
Reeves continued, "And that's just not how I roll. I kind of feel like maybe we can't get it all done and maybe it's not a home run swing, but we could be a better community tomorrow or the next month or the next year than we are today. And so, it's kind of laying some of that out early just to get an understanding of the issue at hand at the state level and some best practices."
EDUCATOR SHORTAGE
So, what is holding Escambia County back? A shortage of educators, first and foremost. That topic came up repeatedly during the summit.
The problem rose to prominence after few early childhood educators returned to the profession following the COVID-19 global pandemic. The Early Learning Coalition, for example, only fills about half its classrooms and puts children on a waiting list due to a shortage of educators.
"We have more children in need of care than we have the ability to serve them for a number of reasons," Watson said. "We definitely need to get people in the childcare business—boots on the ground. There have to be innovative ways to pay
Phase 2 involves developing a strategy, and it's scheduled for July 9 at City Hall. Theresa Cserep, the education and youth programs officer for the City, said, "This isn't going to be something where we have lunch and talk about it. We want to take some actionable steps. (Last week) was about identifying these steps."
For all the success of the first phase, the summit will ultimately be judged by what happens during Phase 2 and after. Participants identified the problems. Now comes the challenging part: identifying the solutions and putting them into action.
"That second meeting will be fleshing those out and saying, 'OK, well what are the tactics now if we agree that here's problem one, two and three?'" Reeves said. "Now, the second meeting is about, how do we attack problem one, two and three, and what can the city do? What could our community partners do?"
The words "actionable steps" rang hollow at past meetings. Cannon and company have walked away from countless meetings energized by the interest in tackling childcare issues, but without any plans in place. Cannon is optimistic that the Childcare Summit will break down that barrier and turn words into action.
"I really hope for an action plan that we can start moving on," Cannon said. "What does it look like and how do we do this? You left with a 'Wow, this is such a cool, innovative way of looking at things outside of the ways we normally look at things.'"
Cannon continued, "As a nonprofit leader for years, we've been in a lot of those kinds of meetings where we know there's a crisis but having Mayor Reeves step up and champion it is important." {in}
NOT A MAGIC ACT Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves moved quickly to address community concerns following American Magic's statement May 22 suggesting the sailing team may withdraw from the 38th America's Cup due to disputes about competition protocols.
At a recent press conference, Reeves emphasized the city's substantial investment in the American Magic project remains fully protected regardless of the team's America's Cup participation.
"There's no consequence or no scenario around the America's Cup that will have any impact on the project itself," the mayor declared. "The building will be built, the employees will be hired."
American Magic cited the unwillingness of the defender Team New Zealand to commit to transparency and fair competition protocols as the primary obstacle to their participation. The team, representing the New York Yacht Club, expressed frustration with what they characterized as an unbalanced framework that makes it "extremely difficult to unlock the America's Cup's potential as a modern, globally relevant sports property."
However, Reeves stressed that American Magic's commitment to Pensacola extends far beyond the America's Cup alone. The mayor highlighted alternative international sailing competitions, particularly SailGP, as potential platforms for utilizing the city's new sailing facilities. He drew comparisons to Formula 1's global appeal, suggesting similar opportunities exist in competitive sailing.
"Remember, there are enormous international platforms for sailing that will be unprecedented here outside of the America's Cup," Reeves noted.
The mayor maintained he stays in "constant communication" with American Magic leadership and confirmed construction work continues as planned, with engineers and electricians actively working on the facility. Even if America's Cup negotiations collapse entirely, Reeves expressed confidence that American Magic would pivot to "some other significant investment into international sailing," ensuring Pensacola's emergence as an international sailing destination remains on track.
MANNY, MANNY The University of West Florida (UWF) Board of Trustees voted 8-2 to select Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. as the university's interim president, effective July 14. The decision was made during a special meeting May 27 after Board Chair Rebecca Matthews modified the agenda on Memorial Day to include the appointment.
Matthews praised Diaz's qualifications, describing him as a "high energy" and "tireless leader" with proven implementation abilities and strategic vision. She expressed confidence in his ability to serve UWF during this transitional period.
Like Matthews, several trustees read prepared statements in strong support of the appointment. Trustee Ashley Ross highlighted Diaz's decades of academic and legislative leadership experience in both the Florida House and Senate, calling him "a man of strong integrity."
Trustee Rachel Moya emphasized his connections throughout the university system and business community, stating the university would be "extremely lucky" to have his leadership.
The State Board of Governors appointed Matthews, Ross and Moya last November. Education Commissioner Diaz is an ex officio member of the Board of Governors.
However, the selection process drew criticism from Trustee Alonzie Scott, who questioned why no other candidates were considered and pressed Matthews for specifics about her consultation process. Matthews acknowledged speaking with "the chancellor of the Board of Governors and many others in the community" but declined to provide a detailed list of contacts.
In accepting the role, Diaz emphasized a "students first" philosophy and acknowledged the university's unique identity as an educational institution and economic engine for the region. He highlighted UWF's strong military connections, robust athletic programs and role as guardian of historical assets.
Diaz brings extensive higher education experience, having served on the Board of Governors since 2022, overseeing all 12 institutions in Florida's university system. He expressed gratitude to outgoing President Martha Saunders and committed to maintaining open communication with faculty, staff and the broader university community during the transition.
DODGE BALL At his May 27 press conference, Mayor D.C. Reeves declined to definitively commit to seeking a second term when pressed by reporters during Tuesday's press conference, offering only philosophical reflections on mayoral leadership instead of a clear answer.
"I don't know that I'm going to commit on a Tuesday 15 months out," Reeves said when asked directly about his 2026 reelection plans. However, the mayor revealed his broader philosophy about municipal leadership, describing the mayoralty as fundamentally "an eight-year job" rather than a single four-year term.
"I just feel like when the community votes you in, if you do this four years right around now, you are done with—it'd be hard to do a childcare summit if this was going to be where you've only got 12, 13, 14 months left," Reeves explained, referencing his ongoing major initiatives.
The mayor emphasized that transformational projects launching over the next year need continuity to succeed, suggesting voters benefit from longer mayoral tenure. He acknowledged the physical toll of office, joking his "hairs are getting gray," but maintained his philosophical commitment to eight-year leadership.
When pressed further, Reeves admitted his response was "a mealy-mouthed way not to answer your question directly but tell you that I'm open to it."
BEACH TRAFFIC QUADRUPLES Escambia
County Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger hosted a town hall meeting to address mounting traffic concerns as Pensacola Beach experiences unprecedented growth that has overwhelmed existing infrastructure.
County Traffic Engineer Jim Hagan and Traffic Consultant Dustin Taylor presented stark statis-
tics showing high-volume days (20,000-plus vehicles through the toll plaza) have skyrocketed from just 15 days annually in 2020 to 56 days in 2024. Peak season now averages 18,000-20,000 vehicles daily, with some days exceeding 25,000.
"We're putting 25,000 cars on infrastructure designed for far less," Hagan acknowledged to frustrated residents who packed the meeting.
The County operates sophisticated traffic management technology, including 212 signals, live-streaming cameras at strategic locations, and real-time monitoring systems. Taylor demonstrated how active human monitoring dramatically outperforms automated systems, comparing travel time between monitored and unmonitored high-traffic days.
On May 4, with active monitoring, travel times from Peg Leg Pete's to the main intersection remained stable at seven minutes. In contrast, with similar traffic volume but only automated systems, Good Friday saw dramatic spikes when the system couldn't respond quickly enough to changing conditions.
The main culprits behind congestion include volume saturation (when hourly vehicle counts exceed 2,000), parking lot capacity reaching limits by noon and infrastructure limitations on Fort Pickens Road with its narrow design. Sheriff's deputies explained they cannot routinely provide traffic control because of competing public safety priorities, noting manual intersection control requires four officers per location.
Commissioner Hofberger announced that a new traffic congestion management study is underway, with results expected later this year. Additional security cameras and improved visitor communication about parking alternatives are also being implemented.
"The beach's success has become its biggest challenge," Hofberger said, promising another town hall once study results are available.
OVERSIGHT MISSING
A $10 million Medicaid settlement that bypassed normal state procedures has become the center of a growing scandal involving Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration, raising questions about transparency and the potential misuse of public funds.
In a recent podcast interview with Inweekly publisher Rick Outzen, State Rep. Alex Andrade revealed that the Centene settlement represents an unprecedented departure from established protocols. "This is the only statewide settlement I'm aware of that wasn't negotiated by the Attorney General's office," Andrade said, explaining that the settlement was instead "controlled and directed by an agency secretary in the governor's office."
Rather than following standard procedures involving both the Attorney General and Chief Financial Officer, the settlement documents bypassed review entirely, creating what Andrade describes as a fundamental absence of "checks and balances" in the process.
Andrade accused the administration of executing the settlement under false pretenses. "When this settlement was executed on Sept. 14,
AHCA (Agency for Health Care Administration) and the governor's office were telling Centene that this $10 million was going to be used to expand Hope Florida's role in providing Medicaid services," he said. "Centene would not have sent this money, which was Medicaid money, to the foundation for any other reason than to provide Medicaid services, because Centene understood these were Medicaid dollars."
Text messages obtained by the Associated Press allegedly show DeSantis' then-chief of staff, James Uthmeier, directing efforts to redirect the funds for political purposes. Andrade said, "Those text messages made clear that James Uthmeier, before the Hope Florida Foundation knew they were receiving this money, was already telling Amy Ronshausen to go get that money from the foundation."
When asked why Gov. DeSantis has repeatedly injected his wife, Casey DeSantis, into the controversy, Andrade suggested multiple possible explanations, including unverified rumors about personal expenses and potential political ambitions. However, he emphasized the most likely cause: administrative incompetence.
"It really is more like 'Veep' than 'House of Cards,'" Andrade said. "All I know right now is her fingerprints are nowhere on this. And it's bizarre that she keeps getting injected into this by her husband."
The Hope Florida Foundation has yet to provide bank records for legislative review, leaving questions about fund usage unresolved.
GO JAYER Oak Strategies, the lobbying firm founded by former Senator Rob Bradley and former Representative Travis Cummings, has rapidly evolved from a boutique operation into a significant player in Florida's political landscape since adding Santa Rosa's Jayer Williamson to the team in 2022.
According to first-quarter compensation reports, the firm collected at least $500,000 in legislative lobbying fees and an estimated $160,000 in executive branch lobbying, marking substantial growth for the relatively young firm. This strong financial performance elevated Oak Strategies in Florida Politics' quarterly rankings of lobbying firms.
The team expanded significantly over the past year, adding former Representative Williamson and Sydney Fowler in December 2024. The four-person team now represents 43 clients across various sectors.
Five organizations paying the top tier of $25,000 each for legislative representation are leading Oak Strategies' client roster: HCA Healthcare, Miami-Dade County, New College Foundation, University of North Florida and Valencia College Foundation. This diverse client base spans the healthcare, local government and higher education sectors.
The firm's rapid ascent reflects the continued influence of former legislators in Florida's lobbying industry, where relationships and institutional knowledge command premium compensation. Bradley previously served in the Flor -
ida Senate, while Cummings and Williamson served in the Florida House before transitioning to the private sector.
With nearly $660,000 in combined first-quarter compensation and a growing client portfolio, Oak Strategies has positioned itself as a formidable presence in Florida's competitive lobbying market, challenging established firms that typically dominate the highest compensation tiers.
PROTECTING PETS Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Sen. Don Gaetz's SB 150, known as "Trooper's Law. " This bill makes it a third-degree felony to restrain and abandon dogs outdoors during declared natural disasters.
"We must do more than tie an animal up to a fence post in advancing floodwaters or abandoning them to the elements. That is why I introduced this bill, which would make it a thirddegree felony to abandon, tie up or tether an animal during a National Weather Service-declared emergency," Gaetz said last February during the committee hearings.
The viral rescue of a bull terrier named Trooper inspired the legislation. Trooper was found tied to a fence in floodwaters along Interstate 75 during Hurricane Milton. The new law carries penalties of up to five years in prison and $10,000 in fines for those who abandon restrained pets during emergencies.
Taking effect Oct. 1, this measure ensures Florida residents understand that "if you evacuate, make sure you are taking your pets," as DeSantis emphasized during the Big Dog Ranch Rescue signing ceremony.
HIDDEN SUNFLOWER Pensacola International Airport has launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, joining a global network of inclusive transportation hubs supporting travelers with non-visible disabilities. Starting June 2, passengers can voluntarily wear complimentary Sunflower lanyards to discreetly signal they may need additional assistance, patience or understanding while navigating the airport. Passengers can obtain free lanyards at the airport's Information Desk.
The program addresses conditions such as autism, chronic pain, anxiety, hearing or vision impairments and other neurological challenges that aren't immediately apparent. Airport staff have received specialized training to recognize the distinctive sunflower symbol and provide appropriate, compassionate support tailored to individual needs.
"We are committed to creating a welcoming and accessible travel experience for all passengers," said Matt Coughlin, the executive Director of PNS. "By adopting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, we're helping to ensure travelers with non-visible conditions feel seen, supported and empowered."
Originally launched at London's Gatwick Airport in 2016, the program now operates across thousands of locations worldwide, including more than 330 airports and 22 airlines. The initiative empowers individuals to travel with greater confidence and dignity, knowing support is readily available when needed.
FOO FOO EVENTS Foo Foo Fest has announced its 10 grant recipients, who will receive more than $450,000. The 2025 Foo Foo Festival runs Oct. 30Nov. 10.
"This fall, we are thrilled to welcome a class of returning Foo Foo Fest presenters, and we look forward to showcasing immersive displays of art and theater, world premiere performances, collaborative presentations, returning festivals, and more to visitors to Escambia County and our local community," said Therese Felth McKenzie, the chair of Foo Foo Fest and vice president of ACE Pensacola.
The 2025 grant recipients include:
•309 Punk Project: HalloZine Fest is a twoday interactive celebration of zine culture and DIY art, featuring zine exhibitions, hands-on workshops, artist talks and a Halloween-themed party with live music.
•Friends of Downtown: Afterburn is a large-scale suspended art installation in Downtown Pensacola, created in collaboration with internationally renowned artist Tomislav Topic.
•Japan-America Society of Northwest Florida: HizashiCon Anime Festival is a vibrant three-day community-powered anime and Japanese pop culture convention celebrating creativity, inclusion and cross-cultural connection.
•Legal Services of North Florida and Jazz for Justice: Jazz for Justice is an annual jazz event benefiting the Legal Services of North Florida, a nonprofit that provides free civil legal help to serve low-income individuals and families.
•Night Moves, Inc.: Night Moves is a one-day festival featuring live music across multiple stages, food trucks an art garden and a vendor market, all set at the Community Maritime Park.
•PenArts: "The Luck" is a new musical written and performed by Nashville's popular folk/bluegrass band The Lubben Brothers. Based on a Bret Harte novella, "The Luck" tells a moving tale of hope, redemption and the California Gold Rush.
•Pensacola Little Theatre: Blending Shakespeare, '60s rock and immersive theater, "Somebody to Love" is a building-wide, multi-sensory experience inspired by "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
•Pensacola Opera: Rock the Runway includes amped, live mashups by the White Tie Rock Ensemble and international opera singers and a catwalk showcasing local boutiques.
•Pensacola State College: "Wandering Without Purpose" is an Anna Lamar Switzer Gallery art exhibit by Relja Penezic and Victoria Jordanova featuring paintings, video art and an interactive sound installation.
•Pensacola Symphony Orchestra: The Orchestra will host a free community concert at the National Naval Aviation Museum on Veterans Day Weekend, featuring the Four Seasons Brass.
Nonprofit organizations not selected, and for-profit partners who are interested in participating, are encouraged to do so as a "Friend of Foo," receiving local, regional and national visibility during the 12-day event via Foo Foo Fest's regional marketing campaign. To apply as a "Friend of Foo," visit foofoofest.com. {in}
Touch-A-Truck Hurricane Expo
Join FPL and community partners for a free, family-fun event with emergency vehicles, preparedness resources, food trucks, giveaways and more.
Saturday, June 14, 2025 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sensory Hour: 9 to 10 a.m. (no horns or flashing lights)
Location: FPL Bayfront Office 1 Energy Place Pensacola, FL
Free Kona Ice for the first 500 attendees
THE OFFICIAL LA REINA
The Pride of Black Burlesque Comes to Pensacola
By C. Scott Satterwhite
The Official La Reina is a multifaceted artist based out of New Orleans whose main medium is burlesque. They are the first burlesque dancer to serve as a 309 Artist-in-Residence. Besides being awarded the titles "Queen of Sin City Burlesque Festival" and "Supreme of Savannah," La Reina was named the second most influential burlesque dancer by 21st Century Burlesque. In this interview, we discuss burlesque performance and the intersections between race, punk and queer culture.
INWEEKLY: How did you first get into burlesque performance?
LA REINA: The stage was always my first love. My mother placed me in ballet as a young child. I studied acting through watching my father on the monologue stages of [Los Angeles] and performed in plays every now and then as a hobby along with my studies, but it didn't feed my spirit. It wasn't until I moved to Atlanta from my home in California after college that I met a community of circus artists after a painful stint of attempting to live the corporate life. I rediscovered myself, my love of dance and art through first relearning hula hooping, and learning that I could get paid for performing, which then led me down the rabbit hole of becoming a performing artist for my professional life [and] quickly led me to the world of burlesque.
INWEEKLY: Why did Atlanta have such a strong impact on you?
LA REINA: While in Atlanta, I found a burlesque teacher who was holding classes in her home and joined her group for about six months. She had taught me of names like The Lady Ms. Vagina Jenkins and Perle Noire, which guided me down a path of the study of Black burlesque legends from Miss Toni Elling all the way to, of course, Josephine Baker. These artists reminded me of home, of the nightclubs my parents had told me about, dancers who played in time with the musicians that I grew up listening to, wild and untamable performers—some who were my own ancestors. For years, I had been inspired by these entertainers without even knowing it. I was hooked ever since.
INWEEKLY: So were you always into dancing or did that come later in life?
LA REINA: I always loved dancing, ever since I
was young. I come from a musical and melodic family on both sides. My father danced on "Soul Train," played saxophone and owned a nightclub. My mother was and is always a dancer, so movement and performance was an art that had always captured my attention. All in all, dancing was always cultural to me, a way of life just as important as food, language or breathing.
INWEEKLY: In what ways do you draw connections between burlesque, dance and Black culture in this region?
LA REINA: Dance in the South has always been an act of resilience, community care and conversation. From the history of oppressed people connecting to their identity, their culture, their ancestors, from the beat of the drum to the spirit of movement. There was a time when the drums and dancing weren't allowed, where even burlesque was banned. Even now, we fight the powers that be that aim to control the human spirit that dares to be free.
Dance opens a portal to the soul, and sensuality soothes the wounds that lay there. Burlesque is not just an art of tease; it's a conversation between the spirit. It can inspire change—whether through political education, personal empowerment, or just bring comfort and joy to a low spirit. Burlesque is "revolutionaire" to a world that demands conformity and subjugation, to a world that demonizes the free spirit and the bodies of Black and queer people, especially in the South.
Burlesque is also considered an "art of the reveal"—to expose hidden truths, to bare the spirit and soul to be witnessed. Burlesque says, "I'm here and I won't let you ignore me." It explores sensuality and sexuality as the art that it is, and not as something dirty or wrong but something that is incredibly natural, incredibly human. It celebrates all aspects of the human form. To be Black and free and joyful rocks the paradigms of what society tells [us is] the story of the Black body.
INWEEKLY: Today, you're based in New Orleans, a city known for its burlesque scene as well as its punk scene. Where do you see the intersections?
LA REINA: It's full of intersectionalities. Many burlesque artists that I know in and around New Orleans are punk on their own. If you ever get a chance to listen to the conversations behind the curtain, you'll hear talk of political action and the
demand for change. Many of us pair with punk bands to perform in spaces like Saturn Bar or Siberia, from the French Quarter to the strip of St. Claude, performing at punk Black events, or utilizing music to dance to. Burlesque is also a parody of society. We may mock the idea of "modesty" in its effort to control. Many of our styles defy notions of conformity. Just the act of being in a body, standing in the brightest of lights, and disrobing is an act of defiance in a puritanical society.
INWEEKLY: I thought it was cool that you wanted to work on a zine about historical Black burlesque dancers while you were in Pensacola. Can you talk a little about that?
LA REINA: Of course. So Infinity Hour is an AfroFuturistic Burlesque Production Company that I've co-created with the co-creator of Punk Black. We are dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices in the Black performing arts, inspiring innovative multimedia theatrical events, and forging new paths in production while documenting Black burlesque and drag from today and beyond.
We believe that Black art, Black expression and Black creativity fuels the future and heals community wounds and bonds—providing sustaining artistic careers, living cultural preservation, economic tourism that uplift communities, and most importantly, a haven for happiness.
We believe that it is important to document this artistic work through multimedia productions, film, and television, and bridge new Black storytellers typically seen in small local spaces to the global audience.
Through the zine, we aim to meet our mission of amplifying these storytellers, inspiring meaningful change in the media landscape, and forging new paths ahead for fringe Black art and the documentation and preservation of it.
Every day, new and innovative Black burlesque entertainers are stepping out and into the world, and during my stay, I aim to work on a segment of the zine that honors burlesque and performing artists of the past with the legacy of their work through my lens as a photographer. I'll be exploring a catalogue of iconic photographs or costumes of artists like Josephine Baker, Dorothy Dandridge, Duke Ellington, Little Richard, Etta James, and more, pairing them with New Orleans local burlesque and drag
entertainers who are inspired by these artists through photography and multimedia production for the publication of the zine set for release on Juneteenth 2025.
INWEEKLY: So you're on The Hoochie Tour, and Pensacola is the second stop. Tell me about the tour.
LA REINA: The Hoochie Tour is a celebratory tour of travel, burlesque and exploration. To be "hoochie" comes from a long tradition of those who embrace the aspects of sensuality, confidence and larger than life glamour of the soul and self. It's a digging into my artistry as a burlesque entertainer, growing and showing off my creativity in different cities throughout the United States and spreading the good words of "freedom" and "joy" through movement. To inspire the inner hoochie in all of us, especially against a world that is attempting to become even more puritanical and tyrannous over the human spirit.
INWEEKLY: What should the audience expect for your "The Living Lens" event at 309?
LA REINA: The event is an 18 and up photography gala and lecture on Black burlesque—a world of expression, revolution and a catalyst for change. I will be showcasing photographs of local and traveling Black burlesque performers that I had the chance to capture with prints available for purchase and support. There will also be a quick lecture about Black burlesque history, inspirations and the impact it made, and continues to make, in our culture and community. To close it off, I will perform a long-form burlesque act that will transport you through this art form. {in}
THE OFFICIAL LA REINA PRESENTS: THE LIVING LENS
WHAT: An 18+ burlesque performance, featuring photography and a lecture on Black burlesque
Playing in the Mud with Claire Lawry Arts & Entertainment
sidered a non-art form, but I feel really deeply connected to the playfulness of my art, being very functional and not necessarily gallery quality work, but still being the truest expression of
The Western Rose, 18 S. DeVilliers St. @the_western_rose
Claire Lawry / Courtesy Photos
a&e happenings
JUNETEENTH EVENTS
JUNETEENTH: A FAMILY REUNION FOR THE CULTURE FESTIVAL The Watson Family Foundation will host the fourth annual Juneteenth celebration noon-6 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at Museum Plaza, 330 S. Jefferson St. Bring your own blankets and chairs. There will be live performances, food vendors, kids activities, card games and more. Details are at watsonfamilyfoundation.com/upcoming-events.
GALLERY NIGHT: JUNETEENTH The next Gallery Night is 5-9 p.m. Friday, June 20 celebrating Juneteenth with the "Art of Freedom," featuring artists, vendors and more. Details are at gallerynightpensacola.org.
NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS
SEA TURTLE BABY SHOWER Learn about beach sea turtles with education and crafts for kids, games, music and more 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 7 at Gulfside Pavilion. Learn more at facebook.com/gulfcoastturtlewatchinc.
SUNDAY'S CHILD OPENS 2025 GRANT CYCLE TO LOCAL NONPROFITS Sunday's Child, a Pensacola-based nonprofit organization that promotes equality and inspires inclusion by awarding grants for significant charitable and economic initiatives, announces the opening of its 2025 grant cycle. Nonprofits serving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties are invited to submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) until June 2 through Community Force, found at sundayschild.org.
Key Dates for the 2025 Grant Cycle:
•Grant Application Opens: June 9
•Application Deadline: Aug. 2
•Membership Deadline: May 31
•Annual Kickoff Party (Members Only): June 22 (announcement of total grant amount)
•Annual Meeting (Members Only): Oct. 12 (finalist presentations and voting)
•Additional virtual and in-person workshops will be held in June and July, with dates to be announced in advance.
ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Animal
Allies Florida hosts bingo twice monthly at Beef 'O' Brady's, 1 New Market St., Cantonment (on Nine Mile Road near Pine Forest Road). The cost is 10 rounds of bingo for $10, with cash prizes for winners. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. For more information, visit facebook.com/animalalliesflorida.
ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN ADOP -
TION Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.
CARING & SHARING MINISTRY FOOD
DRIVE The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens 10 a.m. and also has clothing. Food donations needed are pop-top canned goods, Beanie Weenies, Vienna sausage, potted meat, cans of tuna and chicken and soups. Clothing donations needed include tennis shoes for men and women, as well as sweatshirts and
new underwear for men in sizes small, medium and large. Call DeeDee Green at (850) 723-3390 for details.
ARTS & CULTURE
AIN'T TOO PROUD: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS Enjoy a Broadway in Pensacola show. Performance dates are 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 5 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Tickets and details are at pensacolasaenger.com.
LABELLE PERFORMING ARTS: NO PLACE LIKE HOME LaBelle Performing Arts 2025 recital is 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets are at pensacolasaenger.com.
THE LIVING LENS: DOCUMENTING BLACK BURLESQUE HISTORY IN THE MAKING 309 June Artists in Residence is La Reina. She will present "The Living Lens" at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at 309 N. Sixth Ave. This is an 18 and older event. Details are at facebook.com/309punkproject.
INTO THE WOODS ARTIST AND FARMER'S MARKET Visit Magnolia Acres Farmacy from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at 500 Petty Drive for fresh foods, baked goods and unique decor.
IMPROVABLE CAUSE Enjoy a monthly improv show 10:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month held at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at pensacolalittletheatre.com.
SUNDAY SALON WITH BEN GULLEY
Pensacola Opera presents a special Sunday soirèe with tenor Ben Gulley at the home of Jan and Ron Miller 2 p.m. Sunday, June 8. Tickets are $150 and available at pensacolaopera.com.
ARCHIVE PRESERVATION PARTY At this allhands-on-deck event, help 309 archive items like old punk fliers and posters 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, June 8 at the Punk House, 309 N. Sixth Ave. Details are at facebook.com/309punkproject.
LEBELLE PERFORMING ARTS: THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ Show is 6 p.m. Monday, June 9 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets are available at pensacolasaenger.com.
DRAW TOGETHER DRAWING CLUB This club starts 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 11 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. It's a free event that is open to all ages and skill levels with supplies provided.
PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE PRESENTS: CAMELOT Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fridays, June 13, 20 and 27; Saturdays June 14, 21 and 28; Thursday, June 19; and 2:30 p.m. Sundays June 15, 22 and 29. Tickets are $15-$40. On Thursday, all dates are half price. Pensacola Little Theatre is located at 400 S. Jefferson St. Details are at pensacolalittletheatre.com.
PENSACOLA CINEMA ART PRESENTS: 'THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND' Showtimes are 1 p.m. Friday, June 13 and Saturday,
June 14 at Pensacola Cinema Art, 220 W. Garden St. in the Studer Community Institute. Tickets are $10 cash donation. Details are at pensacolacinemaart.com.
BOP TO THE TOP: MUSIC FROM DISNEY CHANNEL This event includes a "High School Musical" dance off, costume contest and more. Event is 9 p.m. Friday, June 13 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets are at vinylmusichall.com.
PENSACOLA OPERA LIBRARY CONCERT
Pensacola Opera artists will share a free performance 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at the West Florida Public Library, 239 N. Spring St. Details are at facebook.com/pensacolaopera.
HOUSE OF ANDROGYNY DRAG SHOW
Show starts 8 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
BLUE MORNING GALLERY: SPRING FLING
The latest Blue Morning Gallery exhibit is Spring Fling, with featured artists Jan Hoffman, Mark Schmitt and Kathy Stewart, at 21 S. Palafox St. Visit bluemorninggallery.com for details.
JULIA MORRISROE: ICONS AND MONUMENTS Julia Morrisroe, a professor in painting and drawing at the University of Florida, will exhibit her show "Icons and Monuments" in the Switzer Gallery at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. The exhibit is on view through Aug. 7. For more details, visit visualarts.pensacolastate.edu.
IN YOUR FACE: PORTRAITS BY GILA RAYBERG Mosaic portraiture by Gila Rayberg is on view through Sept. 7 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
PENSACOLA ROSE SOCIETY Monthly meetings are normally 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Pensacola Garden Center, 1850 N. Ninth Ave. Visit pensacolarosesociety.org for more information.
BTB COMEDY Watch live standup comedy in open mic style 7 p.m. Mondays at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Follow BTB Comedy on Facebook for updates.
COMEDY SHOWCASE AT SUBCULTURE
BTB Comedy presents a comedy showcase the first Thursday monthly at Subculture Art Gallery, 701 N. V St. Follow facebook.com/pensacolasubculture for updates.
SCRIPTEASERS Join writers at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St., for Scripteasers every month. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for details.
PALAFOX MARKET Enjoy Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. The event features local farmers, artists and crafters on North and South Palafox streets at Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza and Plaza Ferdinand. For updates, visit facebook.com/downtownpensacola.
a&e happenings
CABARET DRAG SHOWCASE AT AMERICAN LEGION POST #193 Don't miss Cabaret Drag Showcase every second and fourth Saturday at the American Legion Post #193, 2708 N. 12th Ave. Doors open 8 p.m. Showtime is 10 p.m. For more information, contact show director Taize Sinclair-Santi at taizesinclairsanti@gmail.com.
SPIRITS OF SEVILLE QUARTER GHOST TOUR AND LUNCHEON Dine inside Pensacola's oldest and most haunted restaurant and investigate the spirits with actual paranormal equipment at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Tickets are $12 and include a voucher toward Seville Quarter's menu. Tours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. Sundays. Make an appointment by calling (850) 941-4321.
AFTER DARK: SEVILLE QUARTER GHOSTS, MURDER, MAYHEM AND MYSTERY TOUR AND DINNER After Dark Paranormal Investigation and Dinner happens inside one of Pensacola's most haunted restaurants with real ghost-hunting equipment 6-8 p.m. Sundays. Listen as your guide weaves tales of ghosts, debauchery, murder, mayhem, paranormal activities, history and more related to Seville Quarter and downtown Historic Pensacola. After your ghost tour, enjoy dinner at Seville Quarter Palace Café, 130 E. Government St. Reservations are required. Call (850) 941-4321. Tickets are available at pensacolaghostevents.com.
FOOD + DRINKS
ATLAS BEVERAGE CLASS: UNA VODKA
The next Atlas Beverage Class is 5 and 7 p.m. Thursday, June 5 at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. Cost is $30 and includes tasting paired with appetizers. Seating is limited. Make your reservation by calling (850)287-0200 or emailing taylor@goodgrits.com.
SIR RICHARD'S OYSTER BASH Sir Richard's will celebrate its birthday with an oyster bash Saturday, June 7 at 2719 E. Cervantes St. Grab raw oysters on the half shell for market price and pair them with our Honey Jalapeno Lemonade starting at noon and until sold out.
BURGER BATTLE BY THE BAY Event is 11
a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at Museum Plaza hosted by Pensacola Suburban West Rotary Foundation. Proceeds benefit support "Take Stock in Children" scholarship fund, monthly meals at Ronald McDonald House and various other local, regional and national Rotary service projects Suburban West sponsors. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
NATIONAL PROSECCO WEEK AT AN -
GELENA'S Angelena's Ristorante Italiano, 101 E. Intendencia St., will celebrate National Prosecco Week from Monday, June 2– Saturday, June 7. As part of the nationwide celebration, Angelena's will offer a special Prosecco tasting flight featuring six unique Prosecco selections,
paired with shareable Italian snacks created by Executive Chef Ian Gillette. During National Prosecco Week, they will offer this shareable for $25. Details are at angelenaspensacola.com.
VINO MAGNIFICO The next Vino Magnifico is 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 10. Sample five wines and mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts at V. Paul's, 29 S. Palafox St. RSVP is required. For tickets, visit vpauls.com.
CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Sample from 50 different beers at The Fish House Craft Beer Festival 3-6 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at 600 S. Barracks St. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. Tickets are $40 and available at fishhousepensacola.com.
LUNCH SERVICE NOW AT IRON RESTAU -
RANT Restaurant Iron, 22 N. Palafox St., will now offer a refined midday experience starting 11 a.m. Monday-Friday. Dinner service will continue to be available Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (850) 476-7776 or visiting restaurantiron.com/reservations. Walk-ins will also be welcome based on availability.
MARTINI NIGHT AT THE KENNEDY Every Monday, The Kennedy, 1 S. Palafox St., hosts Martini Nights, featuring all martinis from the menu for $10 from open to close (4-11 p.m.).
MEN'S NIGHT AT WISTERIA From 3 p.m. to close Mondays, guys can play free darts and enjoy $6 craft tallboys. There are more than 150 craft beers to choose from. Wisteria is located at 3803 N. 12th Ave. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
FIGHTER GAME NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Gamers unite 5 p.m.-close Mondays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
BINGO NIGHT AT CALVERT'S IN THE HEIGHTS Play a game (or two) of bingo 6-8 p.m. Mondays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. For more information, visit calvertsintheheights.com.
DOUBLE MONDAYS AND SIN NIGHT Enjoy Double Mondays 8 p.m.-midnight and SIN Night 11 p.m. to close at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details are at orileystavern.com.
75-CENT OYSTERS AT ATLAS Enjoy 75-cent oysters 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. For more information, visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com.
MUSIC BINGO Test your music knowledge 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Wisteria, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Take part in half-price bottles of wine and $5 canned cocktails. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
POKER NIGHT AND BINGO AT O'RILEY'S Visit O'Riley's Irish Pub for poker at 6:30 p.m. and
a&e happenings
bar bingo 8-10 p.m. Tacos are on special all day Tuesdays at 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
LUNCH AT THE DISTRICT The District Steakhouse, 130 E. Government St., is open for special lunch seatings the third Friday of the month. Enjoy a $5 martini or house wine. Seatings are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Reservations are accepted but not necessary. Details are available at districtsteaks.com.
DOLLAR NIGHT Enjoy Dollar Night 8 p.m.midnight Tuesdays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
TUESDAY TRIVIA AT PERFECT PLAIN Visit Perfect Plain Brewing Co. for trivia nights 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 50 E. Garden St. Visit perfectplain.com/upcoming-events for details.
DOLLAR NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Dollar Night is 8 p.m.-midnight Wednesdays at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Food trucks are on site. Details are at orileystavern.com.
TRIVIA AT O'RILEY'S Test your trivia knowledge 8-10 p.m. Wednesdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
TRIVIA AT CALVERT'S IN THE HEIGHTS
Take part in trivia nights 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. For more information, visit calvertsintheheights.com.
SIPPIN' IN SUNDRESSES LADIES' NIGHT AT FELIX'S Pop-up shops, pink drink specials and live music are 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar, 400 Quietwater Beach Drive.
PITCHERS AND TAVERN TRIVIA Get deals on pitchers 8 p.m.-midnight at O'Riley's Tavern. Trivia is 8 p.m.; SIN Night starts 1 a.m. Thursdays at 3728 Creighton Road. Visit orileystavern.com for details.
WEEKLY SINGO AT PERFECT PLAIN BREWING CO. Music Bingo Thursdays is 7-9 p.m. at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Details are at facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.
POOL TOURNAMENT Pool tournaments begin
8 p.m. and Tequila Night is 8 p.m. to midnight Thursdays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
DOLLAR NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Dollar Night with a DJ starts 8 p.m. Thursdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
TRIVIA UNDER THE TREES Trivia is 6 p.m.
Thursdays at Wisteria Tavern, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
THURSDAY BIERGARTEN TRIVIA NIGHT
Gary's Brewery Trivia Night is back by popular demand 7-9 p.m. Thursdays at 208 Newman Ave.
Test your trivia skills with a glass of beer or wine. Arrive early to grab a spot. For more information, visit facebook.com/garysbrew.
BIG BEER NIGHT Drink specials are 8 p.m.midnight, and SIN Night is 1 a.m. to close Fridays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
FEISTY FRIDAY NIGHTS Enjoy a DJ 9 p.m. Fridays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
TGI FIREBALL FRIDAY Drink specials are all day Fridays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. SIN Night starts at 11 p.m. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
FISH FRY FRIDAY Half off fish n' chips is 11 a.m.4 p.m., and live DJ is 9 p.m. Fridays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
WEEKLY SATURDAY BRUNCH Brunch is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
SHAMROCK SATURDAY Shamrock Saturday is 9 p.m., and SIN Night starts 11 p.m. Saturdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
FREE POOL AND BAR BINGO AT O'RILEY'S TAVERN Enjoy free pool all day and play bar
bingo 8 p.m. Sundays at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details are at orileystavern.com.
SUNDAY BRUNCH AT CAFÉ SINGLE FIN
Partake in brunch specials, full café menu, espressos and bottomless mimosas until 1 p.m. Sundays at Café Single Fin, 380 N. Ninth Ave. Live music begins at 10 a.m. Visit cafesinglefin.com for details.
SUNDAY BRUNCH AND KARAOKE O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St., hosts brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays. Karaoke begins at 8 p.m. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
SUNDAY BRUNCH AT ATLAS OYSTER HOUSE Sunday Brunch is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. View menus at atlasoysterhouse.com.
SIN NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S SIN Night is midnight to close Sundays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
KARAOKE AND SIN NIGHTS AT SIR RICHARD'S Karaoke is 9 p.m.-1 a.m. SIN Night is 1 a.m. to close Mondays and Thursdays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
KARAOKE AT O'RILEY'S UPTOWN Karaoke is 8 p.m.-midnight Tuesdays at O'Riley's Uptown, 3728 Creighton Road. Visit orileystavern.com for details.
a&e happenings
KARAOKE AT THE HANDLEBAR Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. Wednesdays at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Visit thehandlebar850.com for details.
KARAOKE AT WISTERIA Karaoke starts at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at Wisteria Tavern, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Details are at wisteriatavern.com.
WHISKEY WEDNESDAY KARAOKE Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. Wednesdays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
KARAOKE AT O'RILEY'S DOWNTOWN Karaoke is 8 p.m.-midnight Sundays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Details are at orileyspub.com.
KARAOKE AT MUGS & JUGS Karaoke is 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Sundays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
LIVE MUSIC
MUSIC AT FIVE SISTERS BLUES CAFE Visit Five Sisters Blues Café, 421 W. Belmont St., for live music:
•John Wheeler 6-8 p.m. Thursday, June 5
•Skyler Saufley 6-8 pm. Friday, June 6
•Glen Parker 6-10 p.m. Saturday, June 7
•Curt Bol 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, June 8
•John Wheeler 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 10
•D. Scott Riggs 6-8 p.m. Thursday, June 12
•Harrison Avenue 6-10 p.m. Friday, June 13
•Glen Parker 6-10 p.m. Saturday, June 14
CHRISTOPHER'S CONCERTS Concerts are 6-8 p.m. Thursdays at 3200 N. 12th Ave. Attendees may bring their own food and beverages, though a concession stand is available, offering hot dogs, chips, sodas, water and ice cream treats. Details are at scpen.org/christophersconcerts. Nobius is June 5, and JoyRide is June 12 (final date).
WUWF PRESENTS RADIOLIVE The next RadioLive is 6 p.m. Thursday, June 5 with Taylor Grace, Cyrus Nabipoor and Lucy Isabel at Museum of Commerce, 201 Zaragoza St. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at wuwf.org/radiolive.
STARLITO & DON TRIP Show is 10 p.m. Friday, June 6 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Tickets are available at vinymusichall.com.
[GLSNR], BABY IN THE 90S, PEACE PURSUERS, AUMUA, AND OTHER Show starts 7 p.m. Friday, June 6 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
KITTY'S RAVE Show is 9 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Tickets and details are at vinylmusichall.com.
BROADWAY RAVE Show starts 8 p.m. Saturday, June 7 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
IN HER OWN WORDS, EMBL3M, GLIMMERS, AND SAFETY TRAINING Show
starts 6 p.m. Sunday, June 8 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
GHOST CHANT, FLY OVER STATES, SCREAM OUT LOUD, AND RISE UP LIGHTS Show starts 6 p.m. Monday, June 9 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
BANDS ON THE BEACH Weekly concert series is 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. Schofield is June 10 and 9th Avenue Brass Band is June 17. Details are at visitpensacolabeach.com.
RECOVERY BENEFIT SHOW FEATURING MARIGOLD'S APPRENTICE, WILD CHARGE, PAID TO PRETEND, AND MORE! Show starts 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 10 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info available at thehandlebar850.com.
PEPPER Show is 6 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Tickets and details are at vinylmusichall.com.
BODYBOX, DECOY, FOGCRAWLER, MORRAAGORA, AND COMMAND VOICE Show starts 7 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
CASKET ROBBERY AND AUTUMN LIES
BURIED Show starts 7 p.m. Friday, June 13 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.
GASOLINA: REGGAETRON DANCE PARTY
Event is 9 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets are at vinylmusichall.com.
PENSACOLA PICK NIGHT AT ODD COLONY
Music pickers of all levels are invited to play 7-9 p.m. every last Monday of the month at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Bring your acoustic instrument and jam. Visit facebook.com/oddcolony for details.
TUESDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT SEVILLE
QUARTER Enjoy smooth jazz with Melodious Allen and The Funk Heads on Tuesday nights at Lili Marlene's in Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Visit sevillequarter.com for more information.
OPEN MIC NIGHT AT GARY'S BREWERY
Open mic night is hosted by Renee Amelia 6 p.m. every other Wednesday at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. Visit facebook.com/garysbrew for details.
LIVE MUSIC AT CALVERT'S Listen to live music 5-8 p.m. Sundays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. Visit facebook.com/calvertsintheheights for details.
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free will astrology
WEEK OF JUNE 5
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): You have had resemblances to cactuses in recent days. It hasn't always been pleasant and cheerful, but you have become pretty skilled at surviving, even thriving, despite an insufficiency of juicy experiences. Fortunately, the emotional fuel you had previously stored up has sustained you, keeping you resilient and reasonably fluid. However, this situation will soon change. More succulence is on its way. Scarcity will end, and you will be blessed with an enhanced flow of lush feelings.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): I foresee abundance emerging from modest sources. I predict breakthroughs arising out of your loving attention to the details of the routine. So please don't get distracted by poignant meditations on what you feel is missing from your life. Don't fantasize about what you wish you could be doing instead of what you are actually doing. Your real wealth lies in the small tasks that are right in front of you—even though they may not yet have revealed their full meaning or richness. I invite you and encourage you to be alert for grandeur in seemingly mundane intimate moments.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): It's time for your Uncle Rob to offer you some fundamental advice for living. These tips are always worthy of your contemplation, but especially now. Ready? Being poised amid uncertainty is a superpower. You may attract wonders and blessings if you can function well while dealing with contradictory feelings, unclear situations and incomplete answers. Don't rush to artificial closure when patience with the unfinished state will serve you better. Be willing to address just part of a problem rather than trying to insist on total resolution. There's no need to be worried or frustrated if some enigmas cannot yet be explained and resolved. Enjoy the mystery.
CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): Acclaimed Cancerian poet Lucille Clifton published 14 books and mothered six children. That heroism seems almost impossible. Having helped raise one child myself, I know how consuming it is to be a parent. Where did she find the time and energy to generate so much great literature? Judging from the astrological omens, I suspect you now have access
By Rob Brezsny
to high levels of productivity comparable to Clifton's. Like her, you will also be able to gracefully juggle competing demands and navigate adeptly through different domains. Here's my favorite part: Your stellar efficiency will stem not from stressfully trying too hard but rather from good timing and a nimble touch.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): One of the seven wonders of the ancient world was the Colossus of Rhodes, located on a Greek island. Symbolizing power and triumph, it was a towering statue dedicated to the sun god Helios. The immediate motivation for its construction was the local people's defeat of an invading army. I hereby authorize you to acquire or create your own personal version of an inspiring icon like the Colossus, Leo. It will symbolize the fact that the coming months will stimulate lavish expressions of your leonine power. It will help inspire you to showcase your talents and make bold moves. P.S. Be alert for chances to mobilize others with your leadership. Your natural brilliance will be a beacon.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): The Great Barrier Reef is the world's biggest structure built by living things. Lying beneath the Coral Sea off the east coast of Australia, it's made by billions of small organisms, coral polyps, all working together to create a magnificent home for a vast diversity of life forms. Let's make the Great Barrier Reef your symbol of power for the next 10 months, Virgo. I hope it inspires you to manage and harness the many details that together will generate a robust source of vitality for your tribe, family and community.
may be too advanced for people to thoroughly understand you. You could be ahead of your time and too cool for even the trendsetters. I urge you to trust your farseeing visions and forward-looking intuitions even if others can't appreciate them yet. What you bring to us from the future will benefit us all.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): One of my favorite poets, Arthur Rimbaud, wrote all of his brilliant work before he became an adult. I suspect that no matter what your age is, many of you Libras are now in an ultra-precocious phase with some resemblances to Rimbaud from age 16 to 21. The downside of this situation is that you
SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): Blacksmiths still exist. They were more common in the past, but there are many 21st-century practitioners. It's a demanding art, requiring intense heat to soften hard slabs of metal so they can be forged into intricate new shapes. The process requires both fire and finesse. I think you are currently in a phase when blacksmithing is an apt metaphor. You will need to artfully interweave passion and precision. Fiery ambition or intense feelings may arise, offering you raw energy for transformation. To harness it effectively, you must temper your approach with patience, restraint and detail-oriented focus.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): JeanPaul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir were two feisty, independent, strong-minded French writers. Beauvoir was a trailblazing feminist, and Sartre was a Nobel laureate. Though they never officially married, they were a couple for 51 years. Aside from their great solo accomplishments, they also gave us this gift: They proved that romantic love and intellectual equality could coexist, even thrive together, with the help of creative negotiation. I propose we make them your inspirational role models for now. The coming months will be a favorable time to deepen and refine your devotion to crafting satisfying, interesting intimate relationships.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): Over 2,600 years ago, ancient Babylonian astronomers figured out the highly complex cycle that governs the recurrence of lunar and solar eclipses. It unfolds over a period of 18 years
and 11 days. To analyze its full scope required many generations of researchers to carry out meticulous record-keeping with extreme patience. Let's make those Babylonian researchers your role models, Capricorn. In the coming months, I hope they inspire you to engage in careful observation and persistent investigation as you discover meaningful patterns. May they excite your quest to discern deep cycles and hidden rhythms.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): I invite you to try this visualization exercise, Aquarius: Picture a rosebud inside your body. It's located in your solar plexus. Imagine it's steadily and gently opening, filling your body with a sweet, blissful warmth, like a slow-motion orgasm that lasts and lasts. Feel the velvet red petals unfolding; inhale the soft radiance of succulent fragrance. As the rose fully blooms, you become aware of a gold ring at its center. Imagine yourself reaching inside and taking the ring with your right hand. Slip the ring onto your left ring finger and tell yourself, "I pledge to devote all my passionate intelligence to my own well-being. I promise to forever treat myself with tender loving respect. I vow to seek out high-quality beauty and truth as I fulfill my life's mission."
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): I foresee the arrival of a living fossil, Pisces. An influence you thought was gone may soon reappear. Aspects of your past could prove relevant to your current situation. These might be neglected skills, seemingly defunct connections, or dormant dreams. I hope you have fun integrating rediscovered resources and earmarking them for use in the future. P.S. Here's a lesson worth treasuring: While the world has changed, a certain fundamental truth remains true and valuable to you.
HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: What is the best surprise gift you could give yourself right now? {in}
AWESOME! Twenty-nine-year-old Oliver Widger arrived on May 24 in Waikiki, Hawaii, with his cat in tow, the Associated Press reported. But he didn't fly there. Widger and Phoenix sailed from the Oregon coast in a boat he bought without knowing how to sail. Widger was diagnosed four years ago with a syndrome that carries the risk of paralysis, so he quit his managerial job with $10,000 of debt and used his retirement savings to buy and refit the boat. "You know, you're grinding at your job all day long and ... everybody's just trying to do enough to get by and that just wears you out," Widger said. "I think people have seen that it's possible to break out." Upon reaching Hawaii after several weeks at sea, he didn't have a clear plan for what's next but said he might sail to French Polynesia.
RUDE Three men came to blows on May 16 at CSL Plasma in Wilkes-Barre Township, Pennsylvania, after one of them, ahem, let one rip while standing in line, the Times Leader reported. Chazz Pearson, 39, was standing behind an elderly man who dropped a bomb, then apologized. But—and this really stinks—Pearson allegedly struck the man in the head, and when the man's son stepped in, hit him, too. Pearson faces charges of simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct.
HOLIER THAN THOU Mount Athos is a selfgoverned monastic territory in Greece, where 20 or so monasteries coexist peacefully—one would think. However, on May 22, the Associated Press reported, one young monk was hospitalized after allegedly being attacked by brothers of the Esphigmenou Monastery, whose members have defied court and church orders to leave the premises. The dispute began in the 1970s and has involved violent clashes, legal battles and supply blockades. According to police, the rebel monks used garden tools to injure the victim. However, the accused brotherhood denied the claims. "It is a well-known tactic for these perpetrators to play the victims," they said. "They feigned injury in a performance worthy of an acting class."
SURPRISE! An East Shoreham, New York, homeowner who started the happy task of uncovering the backyard pool for the summer season on May 25 was shocked to find a man's body in the water, NBC New York reported. The Suffolk County medical examiner has yet to identify the body or discover how he died, but officials said it may be Matthew Zoll, 23, who has been on the run since stabbing his father to death in November in Rocky Point, New York. Neighbor Paul Gawreluk said he wondered "why somebody would try to get under the (pool) cover. It's not a smart thing to do."
NEWS YOU CAN USE If you're one of those impatient flyers who's up out of the seat as soon as the wheels touch the ground, you'd better not land in Turkey. The New York Times reported on May 28 that Turkey will now fine passengers who leave their seats before the plane has stopped taxiing, to the tune of about $67. The Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation said the
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
banned behavior includes unfastening seat belts, opening overhead compartments and moving into the aisle before it's your turn.
FLORIDA Residents of Fort Myers Shores, Florida, who own pets are taking extra precautions about letting them out at night, Gulf Coast News Now reported on May 27. That's because cane toads are spreading through the community, especially near parks, canals and gardens. The invasive toad secretes a toxin from glands on its back that "can kill very quickly," said Jordan Donini, a biology professor at Florida Southwestern State College. "They can lay anywhere from 8,000 to 32,000 eggs in a single clutch," he said, noting that female toads "are a priority for removal." Donini said the toads have to be removed humanely and encouraged contacting local wildlife control services for help.
•Researchers from the University of Florida have just published a study identifying a new hybrid breed of termite, Gizmodo reported. "I was hoping never to find it," said the lead author of the study, Thomas Chouvenc. The insects are the result of breeding between the Formosan subterranean termite and the Asian subterranean termite, both of which are voracious chewers of wood. In October 2024, the scientists found a colony of the hybrid termites in a park in Fort Lauderdale that they think may have been there for five years. "This may be a Florida story now, but it likely won't stay just in Florida," Chouvenc said.
NATURE GONE WILD On May 28, 90% of the village of Blatten in Switzerland was buried after the Birch Glacier collapsed, the Associated Press reported. Rock and ice tumbled down the mountainside as predicted; the village had been evacuated of people and livestock earlier in May as a precaution. However, one 64-year-old man was missing after the avalanche. Police said the search-andrescue operation to find him had been suspended on May 29 because of falling debris. Local officials said a lake is forming where the accumulated debris blocked the Lonza River; "The challenge lies in the behavior of this accumulation of water and the Lonza River, which could cause a torrential lava flow if the river flows into the deposit."
TRUTH IS STRANGER THAN NETFLIX On May 24, Forest Ranger Robert Praczkajlo responded to a 911 call from Cascade Mountain in the Adirondacks, the Associated Press reported. Two hikers told a steward at the mountain's summit that the third member of their party had died and that they were lost. The steward, however, realized that the hikers "were in an altered mental state," and Praczkajlo escorted them to an ambulance. Turns out the hikers had taken hallucinogenic mushrooms, and their friend wasn't dead at all. After being treated at a hospital, the trio met up at their campsite. {in}
