Inweekly May 16 2024 Issue

FRIDAY • MAY 17

Guest Speaker Admiral Harry Harris USN (Ret.)

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Black Tie/Service Mess Dress

6:30pm Cocktails

7:30pm Dinner

8:30pm Dancing

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DAVID STAFFORD & TAPPIE VILLANE The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association presented the Liberty Bell Award at its Law Week Luncheon to former Escambia County Supervisor of Elections David Stafford and Santa Rosa County Supervisor of Elections Tappie Villane. The Liberty Bell Award recognizes community service that has strengthened the American system of freedom under law and to accord public recognition to men and women, particularly non-lawyers, for outstanding service in one of these areas: promoting a better understanding of our Constitution and the Bill of Rights, encouraging greater respect of law and the courts, stimulating a deeper sense of individual responsibility so citizens recognize their duties as well as their rights, contributing to the effective functioning of our institutions of government and fostering a better understanding and appreciation of the rule of law.

UWF CONCERT CHOIR The National Archives of the United Kingdom's newest exhibition, "Great Escapes: Remarkable Second World War Captives," features the University of West Florida Concert Choir. Video and audio recordings from the "Song of Survival" concert hosted in April 2022 help the exhibit shed light on the untold stories of hope, resilience and ingenuity exhibited by World War II prisoners of war and internees. Dr. Peter Steenblik conducted the performance, which included a replication of a 1943 concert originally given by Margaret Dryburgh and fellow missionaries while they were interned in Indonesia. Held on the 77th anniversary of Dryburgh's death from dysentery in 1945, the performance has been praised by the UK National Archives as a "quality representation of Dryburgh's work."

ORION BECKLER Sinfonia Gulf Coast awarded the Gulf Breeze High senior the 2024 Grace Fulcher Memorial Scholarship. This $1,000 scholarship, created in memory and honor of Grace Bernice Fulcher, is awarded annually to a Sinfonia Youth Orchestra high school senior. Beckler has been playing violin for six years in the Sinfonia Youth Orchestra. This past year, he served as the concert master. He also is the trumpet section leader in the Gulf Breeze High School Marching Band.

DONALD TRUMP The Washington Post reports that the former president told oil executives if he wins back the White House, he will start auctioning off more leases for oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Trump reportedly made the commitment at dinner in his Mar-a-Lago resort in April. At the dinner, he vowed to reverse dozens of President Biden's environmental rules and policies and halt the enactment of new ones. He asserted that the oil executives should contribute $1 billion to his presidential campaign because of the taxation and regulation they would avoid thanks to him, according to the people who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

DISPOSABLE VAPES

Florida vapers spent $410 million on disposables last year—nearly 10 times as much as New York, which has a comparable population of adult smokers, according to the market research firm Circana. However, there's a problem. About 90% of the disposables sold in Florida aren't legal. Florida Retail Federation President Scott Shalley told FloridaPolitics.com the statistic raises concerns about retailer responsibility. He said, "Let's be clear: there is a place for vapes in the marketplace. This is an issue of ensuring products have been properly tested and that they're not falling into the hands of minors."

ESCAMBIA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

Yes, we know we made the school board a loser last week, but this news was too bad to ignore. The Escambia County School District will no longer be challenged by Clay County, Fla., as the nation's leader for book challenges and removals from public school libraries. The Clay County School Board approved a media policy regarding student access to library books and a procedure for removing challenged books. Books can be flagged as "mature" according to agreed community standards, and parents complete a form that controls what books will be accessible to their kids. The Escambia County School Board needs to review Clay County's policies and procedures and return books to school libraries. Vicki Baggett's reign of intimidation must end.

Donald Trump Photo by Jonah Elkowitz / shutterstock.com

David Stafford & Tappie Villane Photo Courtesy of esrba.com

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

CELEBRATE MARGARET DRYBURGH

Between this newspaper and my radio show on WCOA, I interview about 35 people weekly, and few hit me as profoundly as the one I had with Dr. Peter Steenblik last week.

The University of West Florida (UWF) Concert Choir from the Dr. Grier Williams School of Music is featured in the National Archives of the United Kingdom's newest exhibition, "Great Escapes: Remarkable Second World War Captives." The exhibit uses video and audio recordings from the choir's "Songs of Survival" concert performed in the Rolfs Music Hall on April 21, 2022.

Dr. Steenblik, UWF associate professor and director of choral activities, conducted the performance, which included a replication of a 1943 concert originally given by Margaret Dryburgh and fellow missionaries while interned in Indonesia. Held on the 77th anniversary of Dryburgh's death from dysentery in 1945, the performance has been praised by the UK National Archives as a "quality representation of Dryburgh's work."

Dr. Steenblik explained he received an email from the development director of the United Kingdom's National Archives a few months ago. She had noticed some of our YouTube clips of the concert while looking for excerpts of Dryburgh.

"She asked permission to use our videos," he shared. "It's a true honor. I think every college director's dream is to contribute to historical understanding in some way."

The story of Dryburgh, the English missionary and composer, is a testament to resilience. Captured when Singapore fell to the Japanese during World War II, she and other female missionaries were taken to an internment camp in Sumatra. Despite the harsh conditions, Dryburgh refused to give into despair. She organized church services and even formed a choir, demonstrating her unwavering spirit.

"As a way to unite the women of the camp because they were all of different nationalities, she composed wordless music based on famous compositions like (Maurice) Ravel's "Bolero" or (Antonín) Dvořák's "Largo"—standards from the classical music canon. She arranged them for women's voices just on oohs and aahs and

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created a choir in the prison camp that helped sustain their hope and helped them recall memories of love, first dates or concert experiences."

What's even more remarkable is that Dryburgh composed her music entirely from memory, without the luxury of a musical instrument. She jotted down the notes on any available paper, which were then painstakingly copied by hand and distributed to the 30 members of the choir.

"Great Escapes: Remarkable Second World War Captives" explores the human spirit in times of captivity. The exhibit covers the escape that was depicted the 1963 movie "The Great Escape" that starred James Garner and Steve McQueen. It also shares remarkable stories of individuals seeking escape through art and music and finding love, offering glimpses of courage and ingenuity under desperate conditions."

The escape of Dryburgh and her fellow prisoners was an emotional one. Many died because of the harsh conditions. Dryburgh's talent and spirit amaze Steenblik.

"They practiced under one light bulb behind the kitchen and truly risked horrible treatment if they were found out, but this was their method of escape," he said. "These pieces are very close to the orchestral originals of the composers. And it's truly a window into the genius of this woman, Margaret Dryburgh."

Knowing what he does about the composer and how her music was performed in the internment camp made performing eight of her compositions challenging for him and his choir.

Steenblik said, "They're some of the hardest music we've ever learned, not just because of the intricate detail but also because of the emotional investment."

As he shared Dryburgh's story and why he chose to perform her music, I was touched by her indomitable spirit, faith and genius. He gave me a greater appreciation for the importance of music in our lives and the valuable role UWF plays in broadening our perspectives about art, history and life.

The UWF Concert Choir's performance of Dryburgh's "The Captives' Hymn" can be found on YouTube. Use the "Google machine" to find it. You won't regret it. {in} rick@inweekly.net

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PATRIOT CHRISTENED New York Yacht Club (NYYC) American Magic unveiled the AC75 racing boat Patriot on May 7 in Barcelona, Spain. Team members and their families gathered at their team base for a christening ceremony before the boat's inaugural sail. The foiling monohull is set to be tested and raced by NYYC American Magic this summer before the 37th America's Cup.

Terry Hutchinson, the president of sailing operations for American Magic, contemplated the team's campaign to date—much of it spent in Pensacola.

"As we reflect on the last 21 months, it's remarkable that we set a launch date of just three days from now," Hutchinson said. "As a team, we persevered through adversity, especially in the early stages of the build when things didn't proceed perfectly."

The skipper thanked principals Hap Fauth and Doug DeVos for their "unwavering support." He added, "Without their vision and backing, none of this would have been possible. As a team, we are dedicated to honoring their commitment by striving for excellence in everything we do."

Hutchinson and American Magic CEO Mike Cazer recognized the team's collective effort.

"Every person on this team understands our mission: to win America's Cup," Cazer said. "Moreover, they clearly understand their role in helping the team accomplish this mission, and this team is highly talented and dedicated to the mission."

The development of Patriot was a collaborative effort involving American Magic's team of 30 designers, CFD analysts, engineers, naval architects, AI resources and boatbuilders. More than 108,000 design and 65,000 construction hours were dedicated to refining every aspect of the boat.

"We followed our own design path with Patriot as we pushed the limits of the AC75 rule while tailoring for the Barcelona venue," said Scott Ferguson, the design coordinator. "Our overall phi-

losophy is minimalistic, as we've tried to squeeze down our volumes to the base minimum while still fitting the crew and systems into the boat. There are tradeoffs for every decision regarding performance, weight, energy and forgiveness."

He continued, "The design team, together with the sailing, shore and build teams, have developed what we feel is a strong package for competing at a high level here in Barcelona."

SINGAPORE TRIP Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves discussed his recent trip to the headquarters of ST Engineering in Singapore. He called the ST Engineering MRO campus at Pensacola International Airport the city's "single largest investment in economic development."

"It was a really good experience on two fronts. One, having a full understanding that even what will be at least three hangars at our airport is just one sliver of everything that they do," Reeves said. "As it pertains to the aerospace sector, we were touring areas where they were rebuilding and overhauling entire engines— something they don't do in Pensacola. To see that entire process was really valuable. And then the second part, maybe even looking toward the future, is seeing the incredible things they're doing in Smart City Technology."

Mayor Reeves said he had "some very early conversations" about Pensacola being a pilot city for some of the technologies they want to introduce to the U.S.

"In parking solutions, they already have them in Singapore now, where it's not just cameras like we have in Pensacola, where cameras catch you to write a ticket," Reeves said. "They actually have cameras where you set up an app one time, and you're automatically charged going in and out. You don't even have to get your phone out again if you park in that lot every day. It takes care of the entire transaction automatically."

He also described smart intersection technology that monitors traffic flow and weather. "It gets as granular as if it starts to rain, then you assume

with predictive analytics that that means people are going to start leaving earlier from the beach. The lights would start changing red and green accordingly without any human interaction."

The mayor was impressed with ST Engineering's scope. "It was amazing to go around and see firsthand all the lines of business that ST Engineering does and maybe how we can increase some of that partnership."

As Airport Director Matt Coughlin told Inweekly last month, Mayor Reeves said, "ST Engineering's Pensacola MRO is bursting at the seams. Literally, the second Hangar 3 is done; it will be full. They have contracts to fulfill with United and UPS, so they want to continue to see it grow."

Mayor Reeves pointed out that ST Engineering has committed to offering $5 million for scholarships to Pensacola State College's Aviation Maintenance Training Academy, which will be built next to Hangar 3. "They want to be able to build talent, so they're investing in that as well."

The groundbreaking ceremony for Hangar 3 is June 4.

WAR IN GAZA BRINGS PROTESTS HERE

As student activists globally make news protesting the ongoing Israeli invasion of Gaza, Pensacola activists have kept pace with their counterparts with two rallies for Gaza in as many days last week.

At Pensacola State College (PSC), student Adrien McFarland organized a one-day encampment May 6 in solidarity with the people of Gaza and student protesters on other college campuses. He said the enormous "loss and destruction and grief beyond what I can even comprehend" moved him to act.

"Basically, I just felt like I had to do something," McFarland told Inweekly. "I go about my life, and all I can think about is how different it is compared to those living in Gaza."

As word spread of the PSC protest through social media, authorities mobilized dozens of police to monitor the campus. Law enforcement at the state, city and campus levels could be seen patrolling the campus on foot and in vehicles, with several parking lots filled with police cars.

McFarland admitted he "kind of expected" such but added, "The actual amount of cops was pretty baffling, though."

Despite the heavy police presence, a small but dedicated group came to show support. He said, "The key to changing things is solidarity with one another, as well as the shared belief that things can and will change."

The next day, the Party for Socialism and Liberation held an "All out for Rafah" rally in front of Blue Wahoos Stadium. Jasmine Brown said her organization held the rally as part of a "mass call from the Palestinian Youth Movement for people to take to the streets because earlier this week, Israel had decided to invade Rafah despite a global outcry."

"This is a humanitarian crisis, yet Israel still wants to invade, so we're out here," Brown said.

While not directly connected to the other campus protests, she added, "We are in solidarity with them and the struggle in general."

With "Free Palestine" chants in the background, Brown said the subject is "heavy, but it does feel good to be out in the streets."

In the middle of the crowd, Wallah Jopah held a picket sign with her two children by her side.

"I'm standing for Palestine against the crimes that Israel is doing now in Rafah and Gaza," said Jopah, who is Palestinian. "They're killing thousands of kids and innocent people. We want to stop the genocide in Gaza and want a cease-fire right now."

RUBIO VP? On his WCOA morning show, Inweekly publisher Rick Outzen asked Dan McFaul, the head of Ballard Partners Washington, D.C. office and the former chief of staff for congressmen Joe Scarborough, Jeff Miller and Matt Gaetz, whether U.S. Senator Marco Rubio is a serious contender to be Donald Trump's running mate.

"I think Rubio is definitely in consideration. He is a dynamic guy. He's a leader in the Senate. He's begun to get some seniority up here," McFaul said. "Certainly, being Hispanic and having his background does make him a strong pick for former President Trump to select in this upcoming election. I think he's very much in the mix."

He added, "As of late, you've seen a couple of potential VP nominees kind of grenade themselves. So, I think that puts Marco even more in play."

EMS PASSES AGAIN Escambia County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) passed a surprise inspection by the Florida Department of Health. The Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight's Compliance Monitoring site survey found no deficiencies, and the Bureau praised Escambia County EMS for its exemplary service and organization. This was the second random inspection of EMS with no issues since Wes Moreno became county administrator. The first one was in 2021, while Moreno was the interim administrator.

EMS was a disaster under Moreno's predecessors, Jack Brown and Janice Gilley. The Board of County Commissioners has dealt with several lawsuits because of Gilley's bungling in supervising the department.

Many of the problems centered around certifications and recordkeeping. The inspector noted Escambia County EMS vehicles and records were "outstanding" and considered EMS a "role model of excellence as an EMS provider."

"The state liked the way we did things," said Eric Gilmore, the county's public safety director. "As a matter of fact, we set the benchmark in some of the areas that he said other agencies throughout the state have problems with, and he's going to refer them to us. We're pretty excited to be a benchmark."

LITTLE LEAGUE HISTORIC MARKER The City of Pensacola invites the community to cel-

Photo Courtesy of American Magic

ebrate the dedication of the Pensacola Jaycees 1955 Little League Baseball Team's historic marker at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, May 23 at Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St.

The historic marker commemorates the Pensacola Jaycees' 1955 Little League All-Star Baseball Team, the first all-Black Little League baseball team to compete in the first integrated Little League Baseball game in a southern state.

In 1955, the all-star team became the Northwest Florida Little League Champions after five all-white teams refused to play against the Jaycees and forfeited the district title. With no challengers, the Jaycees advanced to the Florida Little League Championship in Orlando.

Met with significant backlash and political maneuvering, the Pensacola Jaycees went on to play against the Orlando Kiwanis in the semifinals Aug. 9, 1955 — with an estimated attendance of more than 750 spectators. After great effort from both teams, the Kiwanis triumphed with a 5-0 win and advanced to the championship game.

The Jaycees historical marker was created through the collaborative efforts of Angei Morris, the City of Pensacola, University of West Florida Historic Trust and Florida Department of State.

ACCOMPLICE TO MURDER On Sunday, May 12, the Court TV true-crime series "Accomplice to Murder, With Vinnie Politan" examined Ricky Chavis' role in the 2001 murder of Terry King, who was bludgeoned to death by the young sons, Alex and Derek.

"What was really unusual about the prosecution of this case is that you had a prosecutor making two different arguments about who the killer was," Politan told Inweekly. "It seemed as we were covering it that it was as if the prosecutor didn't know exactly what happened."

He continued, "And I think it's so complicated and convoluted because you have the age of the boys, just 12 and 13, the youngest ever to be tried as adults at the time. And Ricky Chavis is a very complicated character as well. And he's a pedophile who had this strange relationship with one of the boys."

The "Accomplice to Murder" series spotlights the convicted, condemned and exonerated accomplices in some of the country's most interesting cases. Using Court TV's massive library, the series provides a unique window into trials with verdicts that might not be as clear-cut as they initially seem.

"I've been at Court TV for a long, long time, and having the ability now to do projects like this, in addition to my nightly show, there's a little more satisfaction because of the depth you can go into," Politan said. "That's what our viewers and audience really are craving now—a little more nuance and depth in telling these stories."

PRESSER NOTES At his weekly press conference on Tuesday, May 7, Mayor D. C. Reeves announced Adam Sanitation and Waste Pro had submitted proposals for curbside recycling. They

will give oral presentations to the selection committee on Wednesday, May 22.

"We will continue to look internally as to what they would provide and what our service would look like afterward and what our options would be to the customer," he said. "We continue to move forward with getting some new and improved version of curbside recycling back to the citizens or at least that option to do so."

The city's community response specialists began working with the Pensacola Police Department late last year. The social workers interact with the homeless and others who may need access to area medical and social services. During the first quarter of this year, the specialists had 395 interactions across the community. From those interactions, 133 accepted direct service, whether it was food, water, temporary shelter or housing, or other information about where to go.

The mayor said, "The second quarter is already beating those numbers with 253 total interactions in April alone, 91 accepting direct service."

The mayor discussed his Reimagining Palafox initiative. When he took office, Florida Power & Light was about to complete moving its lines underground. Reeves asked them to stall repaving the Palafox from Garden Street to the Plaza Ferdinand crosswalk until his administration could talk with stakeholders about other aspects of downtown infrastructure, such as widening sidewalks and adding more parking.

FPL delayed the completion of its work and is ready to repave Palafox and the blocks east and west of the street. The city has begun discussing with the utility whether they will contribute their portion of the project and who will manage it.

"What I can tell you is there's no such thing as 100% agreement downtown on whether you do the work during the day or at night. Do we take a couple of parking spaces away to create more sidewalks or not?" Mayor Reeves said.

"I can bring 10 downtown business owners in here; five of them will like one, and five will like the other. That's part of this job. And I appreciate very much our downtown business owners' investment in the city."

His staff is working on multiple options for Palafox's visionary plan. The mayor said, "Maybe ones are a good, better, best type of situation. My goal is to present that back to downtown business owners, the public and the community and get some feedback about what we want Palafox to look like."

TALKING TRASH

CAN The City of Pensacola's Sanitation Services will continue to place QR codes on resident trash cans throughout the month to help customers connect to the city website and stay informed of City Sanitation schedules and additional services.

For the remainder of May, Sanitation crews will place QR codes on resident trash cans from Creighton Road to Woodland Drive. Weather permitting, all QR codes are expected to be distributed by May 31. For more information, contact Sanitation Services at (850) 435-1890. {in}

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H A N G O U T F E S T 2 0 2 4 H A N G O U T F E S T 2 0 2 4 H A N G O U T F E S T 2 0 2 4 H A N G O U T F E S T 2 0 2 4

The third weekend of May is finally here, which means it's time for the biggest beach party of the year—Hangout Fest.

We know we say this every year, but this lineup really might be the best yet. Especially if you love powerhouse female performers. In addition to headliner Lana Del Rey, this year's lineup also features everyone's favorite Midwest princess Chappell Roan, plus "Mean Girl" Reneé Rapp and "Buckle Bunny" Tanner Adell, just to name a few.

And that's barely scratching the surface of all the acts taking over the

beach throughout the weekend. Just make sure you remember that last part. Hangout Fest is a full-on three-day weekend, people. Three really long, really hot days. So make sure you pace yourself and stay hydrated. Think marathon, not sprint, OK?

To help you plan for the weekend, we've once again put together a jam-packed guide, complete with artist interviews, must-see picks and survival tips straight from the festival's director. So read up and get ready to fest with the best of them. We'll see you in Gulf Shores. {in}

By Savannah Evanoff

What people love most about Hangout Fest isn't changing.

Great music with a diverse lineup, this year featuring headliners Zach Bryan, Lana Del Rey and Odesza. A beautiful setting in Gulf Shores, Ala. And tons of stuff to do, like the Monster Beach Club with nonstop dance parties, Corona Beach with volleyball and beer and the wedding chapel—for non-legally binding (but still equally fun) unions.

Katelyn Yount, the festival director, said the biggest change this year is the festival's footprint. They decided to lean into what makes the festival so special: the uniqueness of its venue.

"We have reprogrammed our second stage (formerly the Boom Stage) as the new and improved Boom on the Beach, and so it'll be highlighting some amazing electronic and hip-hop artists this year in its new location," Yount said.

The new Shoreline Stage will arguably have the best backdrop: the Gulf of Mexico.

"We've positioned it in a way that our fans can watch their favorite artists from the beach or from the great lawn area," Yount said. "So super excited. All of our stages this year are now on the

beach with the exception of the Mermaid Stage, which is in the courtyard at the Hangout restaurant. We're super excited about how that will change the overall feel of the show, and again, just continue to really highlight what is so special about Hangout."

Another change she suspects festivalgoers will appreciate is additional sun protection.

"We know it can get hot at the beach, so we've added more shade," Yount said. "There's plenty of areas to cool off and relax in the shade this year."

They've also added new experiences, such as the Nosh Pit, which will offer snacks all day in a new shaded dining pavilion adjacent to Boom on the Beach.

There's also additional benefits for General Admission Plus-ers, such as permanent bathroom facilities and an improved hang space with a private bar and food offerings. VIP ticketholders will have new amenities too, such as a spa area with hairstyling and IV hydration treatments and a coffee vendor—and of course, they're bringing back the VIP pool.

"How could we not?" Yount said.

Super VIP fans will have up-front viewing.

As far as rules go, no alterations were made to the prohibited and allowed items.

"We still have a clear bag policy, and obviously people can bring in empty hydration packs, empty water bottles, and we very much encourage them to do so," Yount said. "We'll have our water refill throughout the festival grounds to fill up those containers."

Yount has a few other pieces of advice for newbies: Firstly, wear sunscreen, she said (speaking as a mom). Secondly, wear actual tennis shoes or other comfortable footwear.

"Sandals can sometimes be a little challenging on the hot sand," Yount said. "I saw some people last year just wearing socks with sandals, so they could take their sandals off and just walk with socks and not be affected by the hot sand. And I was like, 'Honestly, that's genius; wear your sand socks.'"

As far as the lineup goes, the team starts planning a year in advance using a mix of science and gut instinct to concoct the right mixture of rock, pop and everything in between. Yount is excited about dipping a toe into the country genre.

"It's been interesting watching music evolve

over the last couple of years and really start seeing this melding of genres between artists—and people aren't really sticking to one lane anymore, which I love," Yount said. "So I'm actually really excited to see how Zach Bryan and Lana Del Rey really kind of bridge between rock and pop and country and see how our fans interact with that."

Yount is always blown away by Cage the Elephant, she added.

"They're releasing an album the weekend of Hangout, so I'm sure that it will be a special weekend for them," Yount said. "So lots of awesome music. Chappell Roan has been blowing up and Reneé Rapp as well, so we've got some really fun artists on the lineup this year that I think will lead to some really one-of-a-kind experiences for our fans."

It'll be a special time for Yount, too, who tries to take at least one solo walk through the full festival site during the weekend.

"I certainly try to take a moment to step back and enjoy a couple of performances and get to see the festival from our fans' perspective," Yount said. "It's definitely fulfilling to be able to take that walk sometimes and remind myself that it started as just an empty beach."

Photo Courtesy of Hangout Fest / Alive Coverage

R O A N

C H A P P E L L

C H A P P E L L R O A N

C H A P P E L L R O A N C H A P P E L L R O A N

Must See | CHAPPELL ROAN | @chappellroan | 3-4 p.m. Saturday | Hangout Main

Chappell Roan / Photo by Ryan Clemens

LIFE'S ALWAYS BEEN A BEACH

By Grayson Keglovic

with musicians who make soundwaves, but there's one band in particular that's liter -

that the indie-pop band, composed of Jordan Miller (vocalist/bassist), Kylie Miller (guitarist), Leandra Earl (keyboardist/guitarist) and Eliza Enman-McDaniel (drummer), is named for a profound love of the beach, good times and tan lines. But their name has much more meaning

"[The Beaches] is actually a neighborhood where we all grew up in Toronto," said EnmanMcDaniel. "It's very close to our hearts … so it just kind of seemed like a really great name."

The Toronto-based band grew up in the tight-knit neighborhoods of Woodbine Beach in Canada. The neighborhood that brought

place for the band, especially for the Miller sisters and Enman-McDaniel whom they first met when they were six years old, according

Miller sisters and Enman-McDaniel became the start of a long and flourishing career. The Beaches have known each other through life's many stages and have been a band for over a decade, making their debut in 2013.

"It's great to have each other to kind of keep you grounded, and none of us have changed throughout this entire process," Enman-McDaniel said. "We're the same people that we were before."

Despite being a band for over 10 years, The Beaches finally reached a mass audience courtesy of TikTok. Following their popularity on social media, the band released their 2023 single "Blame Brett," which became a trending song on TikTok.

While 2023 was the breakthrough year for the band, The Beaches had already received praise from legendary artists like Elton John, The Rolling Stones and the Jonas Brothers.

"It gives you a lot of confidence to see other acts that you really respect, respect you back and reciprocate that," Enman-McDaniel said. "It's a great confidence boost and it gets

DID YOUR BOOTS STOP WORKIN'?

By Savannah Evanoff

and ranches for horseback riding," Dasha said. "There is only one downtown street, and it has my favorite bar, Frog & Peach, that I always go to when I'm back home."

The Beaches / Photo by Becca Hamel

Dasha / Photo by Adam Budd

HANG 10 10 SETS YOU REALLY SHOULDN'T MISS

FLYANA BOSS

HEMLOCKE SPRINGS

DOMINIC FIKE

TANNER ADELL

SEXYY RED

RENEÉ RAPP

DEL WATER GAP

DOECHII

QVEEN HERBY

PAUL RUSSELL

All photos courtesy of the artists, via Hangout Fest

Photo by SJ Spreng

Photo by Daniel Prakopcyk

Photo by Erica Snyder

Photo by Chris Parsons

THE SINGING DRUMMER

By Savannah Evanoff

"I drum, I sing, g'day mate," reads G Flip's

And if you're not already playing songs like "Worst Person Alive" or their rock cover of Taylor Swift's "Cruel Summer" on a loop, you

The Australian musician, who identifies as nonbinary, proudly represents the LGBTQ+

"It's something I'm very passionate about, and I think being my authentic self is really a big part of my project," G Flip said. "I want to be the representation I never had when I was younger. I think me just being myself helps a lot of people, so it's definitely something I will continue to do in my career and I won't

Some listeners might've been acquainted with G Flip via cameos alongside their wife Chrishell Stause on the Netflix reality show "Selling Sunset." They agreed to highlight their relationship on the show for representation.

"We wanted to show a healthy queer couple and someone that's nonbinary and in a healthy couple on the screen," G Flip said. "We didn't want to get involved with drama or anything, we just wanted to be ourselves and represent our community … It was interesting to film, but it was cool. And you know, I love Chrishell so much, so doing anything with her

G Flip started playing a "kiddy" drum kit at 9—a gift from uncle and auntie after being weirdly drawn to their cousin's drum kit,

"I've just always loved the physicality of it," G Flip said. "As a kid, I had very high energy running around all the time and really struggled to focus on anything, but drums always kept my focus. I just really adored the instrument—and then I had a really amazing drum teacher that made me love the drum kit even more."

Drums are home base, but G Flip also plays piano, guitar and bass guitar—and dabbles with a few other instruments, too.

"I've never been vocally trained, so I've just sang what my ear hears and written songs by what my brain thinks is right,"

G Flip said. "It took me a little longer to get into the singing drummer thing."

And there aren't a lot of them, they acknowledged.

"Growing up, I never saw anyone that looked like me singing, so I wanted to do exactly that and create the things I wish existed," they said. "And I wished someone like me was a singing drummer, so that's what I went for."

In many ways, G Flip is a blend of their parents' taste in music: their dad's penchant for British pop and punk and mother's bias for top-40 hits. They were psyched to sit next to Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, a childhood favorite, while presenting at the GLAAD Awards with Stause.

"The Worst Person Alive," their favorite song on their sophomore album "Drummer," is a prime example of this musical mixture. As indicated in its name, the breakup anthem is about feeling like the worst person (alive) after a breakup.

"It's definitely a song people really shoutsing back to me," G Flip said.

Their rendition of "Cruel Summer" was born after countless times being hyped up by the song in the green room while on tour. It was featured in their pre-show warmup playlist.

"It's just my favorite Taylor Swift song," G Flip said. "I think the writing is so good, and that bridge is one of the best bridges ever written. I just wanted to put my own G Flip spin on it. So I got to work and I just thought about, 'If this was my own song, sonically what would I want it to encompass?' And obviously, being a drummer, I wanted it to be drum heavy, but I still wanted to bring that emotion because it's quite an emotional song lyrically."

G Flip promises their Hangout Fest set will be worth your time this weekend.

"I've got a very high-energy show, and it's very fun; it's very drum heavy, of course," they said. "I've played one festival on the beach before, so I'm excited to do it again. And it's a great lineup, so I'm very keen."

G Flip / Photo by Callum Walker Hutchinson

A N A D E L R E Y L A N A D E L R E Y L A N A D E L R E Y

Lana Del Rey / Photo courtesy of the artist, via Hangout Fest / By Chuck Grant

Linka Moja won the breakup—if a breakup competition exists.

Moja was taking a five-year hiatus from music; she'd nurtured a love-hate relationship with it through the unrelatable classical piano lessons her parents had en couraged growing up. What brought her back to music, though, was an ex-boyfriend slash musician.

"He was writing all this music, and I was kind of at tempting to communicate with him through songwriting, and so the songs I was writing were really, really personal and emotional," Moja said. "But it was also really healing for me. Then once we broke up, that just continued to be an outlet for me."

Even while studying economics at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Moja couldn't stay away. She's now on an extended break from school.

"It's funny because a lot of people would rather hear that you're in school, regardless of the fact that you're miserable, than to hear that you're doing some thing crazy like taking a break and chasing a dream," Moja said.

But now, gaining traction and booking shows across the country like Hangout Fest, Moja is starting to think she made the right call. She recently returned to Los An geles after performing at Shaky Knees Festival in Atlanta.

"It was crazy," Moja said. "It's the first time in my entire life there were people in the crowd who were singing the words to my original music. Like, I've never had that happen before in my entire life, and I've been gigging for a while now. It was just really inspiring, see ing people connect with what I'm saying. It was a really, really good feeling."

One of the songs the audience sang back to her was Moja's most played on Spotify, "Blood Orange." The lyr ics are about holding on tightly to a relationship that isn't

STAYING TRUE

By Savannah Evanoff

LINKA MOJA | @linka.moja 1:15-2 p.m. Friday | Mermaid Stage

THE PERFECT SCENARIO

By Grayson Keglovic

together' and then the pandemic happened," Griffith said. "[The pandemic] presented itself as that perfect kind of a scenario where we could all have a bunch of free time and get together, so we kind of just spawned

Griffith said that the long months of isolation gave each member an opportunity to focus on music. Once quarantine ended, the four had individually grown and exercised their talents.

for granted."

"Because it's really easy for those years to just fly by," Griffith said. "Let things slow down, take in everything. I would also tell myself to make smarter decisions."

Linka Moja / Photo by Jeremiah Rafferty

The Stews / Photo courtesy of the artist

Just like we have every year for the last 24 years, we're asking all of you to play favorites and vote in our Best of the Coast poll.

That means all of your most important opinions—like who really makes the best cookies in town—are finally going to be heard.

And don't worry if you can't get through the full ballot in one try. Voting is open through May 21, so you can take it one section at a time. You can also vote online if that's more your style—at inweekly.net. {in}

Or vote online at inweekly.net • Now-May 21

community, media & culture

Best Nonprofit

Best Charity Event

Best Place to Work

Best Boss

Best Community Leader

Best Rising Leader

Best Politician

Best Advocacy/Activist Group

Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests

Best Day Trip

Best Annual Event

Best Food Event

Best Parade

Best Regular/Reoccurring Event

Best Free Thing To Do

Best Neighborhood

Best Public Park

Best Pet-Friendly Park

Best Playground

Best Palafox Market Vendor

Best Makers/Craft Market

Best Reason to Attend a Blue Wahoos Game

Best Reason to Attend an Ice Flyers Game

Best Youth Sports/Rec Program

Best Dance Studio

Best After-School Activity

Best Summer Camp

Best Place for a Birthday Party

Best Local Celebrity

Best TV Station

Best Radio Station

Best Radio Personality

Best Morning Radio Show

Best Podcast

Best Website/Blog

Best Business or Person to Follow on Social Media

Best Way To Get Cultured

Best Art Gallery/Museum

Best Artist

Best Author/Writer

Best Photographer

Best Music Venue

Best Band

Best Concert/Concert Series

Best Theatre Production

Best Comedian

services

Best Hair Salon-Pensacola

Best Hair Salon-Gulf Breeze/Pensacola Beach

Best Hair Salon–Milton/Pace

Best Hair Stylist

Best Hair Colorist

Best Barber Shop

Best Men's Hair Stylist

Best Day Spa

Best Massage

Best Massage Therapist

Best Pedicure

Best Manicure

Best Hair Removal

Best Facial

Best Esthetician

Best Skin Care Overall

Best Bank

Best Credit Union

Best Financial Advisor

Best Accounting Firm

Best Residential Real Estate Agency

Best Commercial Real Estate Agency

Best Real Estate Agent

Best Boutique Hotel/Inn

Best Hotel–Pensacola Beach

Best Hotel–Pensacola

Best Apartment Complex

Best Architecture Firm

Best Law Firm

Best Attorney

Best Insurance Agent

Best Vet

Best Dog Groomer

Best Dog Training

Best Pet Boarding

Best Construction Company

Best AC Company

Best Landscaping

Best Interior Designer

Best Custom Picture Framing

Best Tattoo & Piercing Studio

Best Tattoo Artist

Best Special Event Space

Best Party Decor

Best Mobile Event Service/Experience

Best Caterer

Best Florist

Best Portrait/Family Photography

▶rules

•No photocopies or faxes will be accepted.

•Vote in at least 15 categories. Ballots with fewer than 15 categories completed will not be counted.

•Ballots must be postmarked by May 21, 2024.

▶mail your ballot to Best of the Coast c/o Inweekly, PO Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591

▶required info

Name

Email

Best Tailor/Alterations

Best Car Wash/Detailer

Best Auto Service Shop

Best Green Business

Best New Business

health

Best Gym

& wellness

Best Personal Trainer

Best Boutique Fitness Studio

Best Yoga

Best Yoga Instructor

Best Pilates

Best Fitness Classes

Best Fitness Instructor

Best Bootcamp

Best Weight Loss Program

Best Running Club

Best 5K

Best Place to Walk/Run

Best Place to Ride a Bike

Best Hospital

Best General Care Physician

Best Chiropractor

Best Dentist

Best Endodontist

Best Orthodontics

Best Pediatrician

Best Mental Health Professional

Best OB/GYN

Best Optometrist

Best Dermatologist

Best Plastic Surgery

Best Physical Therapy

Best Pharmacy

Best Walk-In Clinic

Best Cannabis Dispensary

retail

Best Car Dealership

Best Bicycle Shop

Best Boutique

Best Men's Apparel

Best Women's Apparel

Best Children's Apparel & Gifts

Best Accessories

Best Thrift Store

Best Athletic/Outdoor Store

Best Furniture/Home Décor Store

Best Antiques

Best Vintage Shop/Seller

Best Maker/Artisan

Best Gift Shop

Best Place to Buy Greeting Cards/Stationery

Best Bookstore

Best Comic Book Store

Best Toy/Collectable Store

Best New Store

Best Jeweler

Best Surf/Skate Shop

Best Nursery/Plants

Best Hardware Store

Best Computer/Tech Store

Best Music Gear/Instruments

Best Record Store

Best Liquor Store

Best Wine Shop

Best Wine Tastings

Best Grocery Store

Best Place to Buy Produce

Best International Food Market

Best Gourmet/Specialty Food Shop

weddings

Best Place to Propose

Best Place to Buy an Engagement Ring

Best Ceremony Venue

Best Reception Venue

Best Officiant

Best Bridal Store

Best Place to Rent a Tux

Best Bridal Make-up Artist

Best Wedding Hair Salon

Best Wedding Hair Stylist

Best Wedding Planner/Coordinator

Best Wedding Photography

Best Photobooth

Best Wedding Videography

Best Wedding Band

Best Wedding DJ

Best Wedding Caterer

Best Wedding Cake

Best Wedding Florist

Best Wedding Rentals

Best Wedding Party Transportation

Best Place to Buy a Wedding Gift

Best Place for a Rehearsal Dinner

Best Place for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay

restaurants

Best Restaurant Overall

Best Restaurant–Downtown

Best Restaurant–Cordova Area

Best Restaurant–East Hill

Best Restaurant–North Pensacola/ Nine Mile Road

Best Restaurant–West Pensacola/Perdido Key

Best Restaurant–East Pensacola Heights

Best Restaurant–Gulf Breeze

Best Restaurant–Pensacola Beach

Best Restaurant–Milton/Pace

Best New Restaurant

Best Bakery

Best Breakfast

Best Brunch

Best Lunch

Best Food Truck

Best Greek Cuisine

Best Mexican Cuisine

Best Italian Cuisine

Best Cajun Cuisine

Best Chinese Cuisine

Best Japanese Cuisine

Best Thai Cuisine

Best Indian Cuisine

Best Vietnamese Cuisine

Best Vegetarian/Vegan Cuisine

Best Sushi

Best Gluten Free Options

Best Seafood

Best Steakhouse

Best BBQ

Best Soul Food

Best Wine Menu

Best Original Menu

Best Chef

Best Up-and-Coming Chef

Best Wait Staff

Best Waiter

Best Waitress

Best Coffee Shop

Best Barista

Best Outdoor Dining

Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant

Best Pet-Friendly Restaurant

Best Takeout/To Go

Best Restaurant for a Date

Best Restaurant for a Birthday Dinner

Best Restaurant for Sports Fans

Best Late Night Eats

Best Restaurant to Take Out-of-Town Guests

Best Gone-But-Not-Forgotten Restaurant

food

*List the specific menu item if applicable

Best Uniquely Pensacola Dish

Best Cup of Coffee

Best Cold Brew

Best Latte

Best Iced Tea

Best Juices/Smoothies

Best Pizza

Best Steak

Best Burrito

Best Taco

Best Soup

Best Deli

Best Bread

Best Sandwich

Best Chicken Salad

Best Burger

Best Hot Dog

Best Appetizers

Best Pastries

Best Breakfast Dish/Menu Item

Best Grits

Best Donuts

Best French Fries

Best Fried Chicken

Best Wings

Best Oysters

Best Salads

Best Vegetarian/Vegan Dish

Best Desserts

Best Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/ Gelato

Best Cakes/Cupcakes

Best Cookies

Best Original Menu Item

Best Lunch Specials

Best Weekly Special

Best Cooking Classes

Best Food Manufacturer

Best Beverage Manufacturer

Best Mobile Beverage Service

bars, drinks & nightlife

Best Bar Overall

Best Night Club

Best Bar–Downtown

Best Bar–Cordova Area

Best Bar–North Pensacola/Nine Mile Road

Best Bar–West Pensacola/Perdido Key

Best Bar–Pensacola Beach

Best Bar–Milton/Pace

Best New Bar

Best Drink Specials

Best Day Drinking

Best Drink Menu

Best Daiquiris/Frozen Drinks

Best Bushwacker

Best Bloody Mary

Best Mimosa

Best Martini

Best Selection of Wine

Best Margarita

Best Signature Drink

Best NA Drink Options

Best Brewery

Best Selection of Beer on Tap

Best Bar Staff

Best Bartender

Best DJ

Best Drag Performer

Best Sports Bar

Best Sports Team Club Headquarters

Best Neighborhood Bar

Best Pet-Friendly Bar

Best Hotel Bar

Best Bar With a View

Best Bar Ambiance

Best Bar for Games

Best Trivia Night

Best Karaoke Night

Best Bar for Live Music

Best Bar Food

NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS

RAISE THE WOOF ADOPTION EVENT

Paws Crossed adoption event is 5:30 Friday, May 17 at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. Details are at facebook.com/garysbrew.

CICLOVIA VOLUNTEER MEET UP Visit with Ciclovia committee members and learn how you can contribute to future Ciclovia events. There will be information and free drinks and snacks. Meet up is 2-4 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at DeVilliers Square. For updates, visit facebook. com/cicloviapensacola.

WALK THE TALK FOR EPILEPSY Epilepsy

Alliance Florida hosts Walk the Talk for Epilepsy events all over Florida. The event in our area is 4-7 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Seville Square, Downtown Pensacola. There will be kid's activities and live music.

ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Animal

Allies Florida hosts bingo twice monthly at Scenic Hills Country Club, 8891 Burning Tree Road. The cost is 10 rounds of bingo for $10, with cash prizes for winners. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. The full bar and restaurant offer special adult beverages just for bingo nights. You must be 18 to play. For more information, visit facebook.com/animalalliesflorida.

ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN

ADOPTION Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.

CARING & SHARING MINISTRY FOOD

DRIVE The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens at 10 a.m. and 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

BRIDGERTON BRIDAL SHOWCASE Bridal fashion showcase, regency era cocktail menu, watch party and more is 5-9 p.m. Thursday, May 16 at Perfect Plain, 50 E. Garden St. Details are at facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

ARIELLE ISSAC NORMAN AND WILL

ABELES Comedy show is 7:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, May 17 at Club 27 Comedy, 201 E. Wright St. Tickets are $25-$40. Details are at club27comedy.standuptix.com.

HOT GLASS COLD BREW The next Hot Glass Cold Brew is 5-9 p.m. Friday, May 17 at First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. Tickets are $30 for members and $40 for nonmembers and includes an artisan handmade cup. Fill with complimentary beer and wine from Pensacola Bay Brewery. For more details, visit facebook.com/firstcityartcenter.

GALLERY NIGHT The next Gallery Night is 5-9 p.m. Friday, May 17 in downtown Pensacola. This month's theme is Pensacola Navy Days. Details are available at gallerynightpensacola.org.

CINEMAS IN THE SAND Movies start at sunset select Friday nights at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. The next movie "The Parent Trap" (1998) on Friday, May 17. Details are available at facebook.com/visitpensacolabeach.

LIFT EVERY VOICE The Choral Society of Pensacola presents a celebration of Black composers spanning five centuries 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Cokesbury Church, 5725 N. Ninth Ave. Tickets are $5-$25. Discounts are available for groups, seniors and military. Tickets are $5 more the day of the event. Purchase tickets at purplepass.com.

NAVY DAYS "NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM"

GALA Event is 6:30-10 p.m. Friday, May 17 at Naval Aviation Museum, 1750 Radford Blvd. The National Naval Aviation Museum plays host to this black tie/service mess dress affair featuring special guest speaker Admiral Harry Harris USN, retired. Tickets are available at bigtickets.com/e/pensacola-navy-days/a-nightat-the-museum-gala.

NAVY DAYS PARADE Gather along Pensacola's waterfront for the Navy Days parade featuring miliary equipment, squadrons, Sailors of the Year, bands and drill teams, with the support of many of Pensacola's best Mardi Gras Krewes. The parade starts at Veterans Memorial Park 9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 18 and ends at Community Maritime Par, where there are family-friendly activities, food trucks and tours of Navy vessels until 3 p.m.

BLOW YOUR OWN SUN CATCHER WITH MUFFINJAW DESIGNS Glass ornament making class is 4 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Gary's Brewery & Biergarten, 208 Newman Ave. Live music from Derek Watts starts at 6 p.m. Tickets for the event are at muffinjawdesigns.com.

THE VINTAGE BLOCK PARTY Pensacola

Vintage Collective presents a block party with vintage and handmade vendors, live music, food trucks and more 1-6 p.m. Sunday, May 19 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. For details, visit facebook.com/pensacolavintagecollective.

EMANCIPATION DAY CELEBRATION Ella

Jordan African American Museum is hosting its inaugural Pensacola Emancipation Celebration 1-3 p.m. Sunday, May 19. The ceremony will reenact the May 20, 1865, reading of the Emancipation Proclamation with assistance from the Second Infantry USCT Living History Association and the UWF Historic Trust at 423 North C St.

BROADWAY LIGHTS DANCE CENTERTANGLED ADVENTURES Show is 5 p.m. Sunday, May 19 at Saenger Theater, 118 S. Palafox St. Details are at pensacolasaenger.com.

BODACIOUS ROMANCE BOOK CLUB The Bodacious Romance Book Club meets 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 at Bodacious Bookstore, 110 E. Intendencia St. The book discussion will be about "Just for the Summer" by Abby Jimenez. Visit facebook.com/bodaciousbookstore for details.

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD/PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE DOUBLE FEATURE

This onstage double feature is a twist on the vintage low-budget films. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 23, Friday, May 24, Saturday, May 25 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 26 at the Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd. Tickets and information are at performingarts. pensacolastate.edu.

P3 PRESENTS: SOME OF THIS IS BAD

Comedy show with Colten Dowling and Dylan Carlino is 9 p.m. Friday, May 24 at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Tickets are $20 and available on Eventbrite.

LIBERATION! PRESENTS KINGS OF SUMMER Drag King showcase is 8 p.m. Saturday, May 25 at Subculture Art Gallery, 701 N. V St. Details are available by finding Liberation Pensacola on Facebook.

SILENT BOOK CLUB AT BODACIOUS

Sundays are for quietly reading at Bodacious Bookstore & Café, 110 E. Intendencia St. Join the

Silent Book Club 10-11 a.m. every Sunday. Details are at facebook.com/bodaciousbookstore.

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. 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 Street at Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza and Plaza Ferdinand. For updates, visit facebook.com/downtownpensacola.

CABARET DRAG SHOWCASE AT AMERICAN LEGION POST #193 Don't miss Cabaret Drag Showcase every second and fourth Saturday at the American Legion Post #193, 2708 N. 12th Ave. Doors open at 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 held 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 actual 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. Following 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.

PENSACOLA ARTS MARKET Shop small and buy art at Pensacola Arts Market 11 a.m.-4 p.m. every fourth Saturday of the month at Cordova Square, 1101 N. 12th Ave. Enjoy a local artisan and farmers market with more than 50

vendors, food trucks, plants, vintage clothing and décor, live musical performances, kids' crafts and games. This is a free event. Pensacola Arts Market is set up 4-9 p.m. every first Friday of the month and 2-6 p.m. every third Sunday at Gary's Brewery & Biergarten, 208 Newman Ave.

BODY, MIND, SPIRIT MARKET AT EVER'MAN

Local vendors, artisans, holistic practitioners, speakers and more come together 10 a.m.-4 p.m. the first Saturday of the month at Ever'man Downtown, 315 W. Garden St. This is a free indoor and outdoor event with door prizes, entertainment and children's activities. For a vendor table, call (850) 941-4321 or go to empowermentschoolhouse.com.

THE FLUIDITY OF PERCEPTION Enjoy an exhibit from Chris Gustin and Nancy Train Smith in collaboration with the Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society. The show is on view through May 17 at the Switzer Gallery at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd.

LOVE LETTERS TO URSA MAJOR: WORK

BY KELLY ANNE MUELLER

Enjoy a solo show from Kelly Anne Mueller, Best in Show from the 2023 PMA Members Show. Exhibit is on view through May 25 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Visit pensacolamuseum.org for details.

PMA MEMBERS SHOW The 70th annual Members Show is on view through May 25 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Visit pensacolamuseum.org for details.

FOOD + DRINKS

HANDS-ON CHARCUTERIE CLASS Make your own charcuterie board 6-9 p.m. Thursday, May 16 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $65 and available through the link at facebook.com/bodaciousshops.

COOKING CLASS AT ANGELENA'S Visit Angelena's, 101 E. Intendencia St., for a cooking class celebrating La Sagra del Limone. The dinner will be held 6 p.m. Thursday, May 16 in the Garden Room. Tickets are $125 plus tax per person. Seating is limited. Reserve your spot by visiting angelenaspensacola.com or calling (850) 542-8398.

FOOD ART: CHARCUTERIE CLASS Charcuterie class with Pensacola Cooks is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 16 at 4051 Barrancas Ave. Details and tickets are available at facebook.com/pensacolacooks.

COUPLES COOK: FLAMBE Pensacola Cooks

cooking class is 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 17 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Cost is $100 per couple. Details are available at facebook. com/pensacolacooks.

SIP AND DIP AT SIR RICHARD'S Enjoy premium tequila paired with chips and dips 2-4 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Sir Richard's, 2719 E. Cervantes St. The event features Avión Cristalino, Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Anejo, Tequila Ocho Plata, and Herradura Reposado. Cost for the event is $45. Tickets are available at sirrichardslounge.com.

FAMILY COOKS CLASS: MACARONS

Cooking class for adults and kids is 1-3 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Cost is $60 for adults and $45 for children ages 6-17. Details and registration are at facebook.com/pensacolacooks.

BRIDGERTON BRUNCH Regency era brunch is 11 a.m. Sunday, May 19 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $50 and available at facebook.com/bodaciousshops.

ADVANCED HANDS-ON SUSHI MAKING

The next level in sushi making with Chef Summer is 6-9 p.m. Monday, May 20 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are available through the link at facebook.com/bodaciousshops.

COOK THE BOOK AT PENSACOLA

COOKS Learn three recipes from Julia Reed's "But Mama Always Put Vodka in Her Sangria!" Class is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 23 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Cost is $60 per student. Tickets are available at facebook.com/ pensacolacooks.

FOOD HISTORY: GULF COAST SEAFOOD

Cooking class with Chef Luther Scott III is 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 24 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave. Cost is $60 per student, and information is available at facebook.com/pensacolacooks.

MEMORIAL DAY CRAWFISH BOIL AT O'RILEY'S O'Riley's Irish Pub will host an exotic car show and crawfish 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, May 26 at 321 S. Palafox St. Crawfish will be available to purchase and comes with a free Bud Light for those 21 and older. For more information, visit orileyspub.com.

GREEN THUMB WINE TASTINGS Join Green Thumb Wines for a wine tasting 6-8 p.m. every first Friday of the month at 9 E. Gregory St. Cost is $15, which can be applied to a bottle purchase of your choice. For more information and tickets, visit greenthumbwines.com/collections/events.

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.

SIPPIN' IN SUNDRESSES LADIES' NIGHT AT FELIX'S Pop-up shops, pink drink specials and live music is 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar, 400 Quietwater Beach Drive.

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.

GAMER/JACKBOX NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S

Gamers unite 5 p.m.-2 a.m. 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.

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.

BAR BINGO Visit O'Riley's Irish Pub for Bar Bingo 8-10 p.m. 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 on the third Friday of the month. Enjoy $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.

SECOND TUESDAY THEMED TRIVIA Visit Perfect Plain Brewing Co. for themed trivia nights 7-9 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at 50 E. Garden St. Visit facebook.com/ perfectplainbrewingco for details.

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.

PITCHERS AND TAVERN TRIVIA O'Riley's Tavern hosts trivia 8 p.m.-midnight Thursdays at 3728 Creighton Road. Visit orileystavern.com for details.

TRIVIA AT WISTERIA 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.

TRIVIA AT SIR RICHARD'S Flex your trivia knowledge 8-10 p.m. Fridays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.

FREE POOL AND BAR BINGO AT O'RILEY'S TAVERN Enjoy free pool and play bar bingo 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details at orileystavern.com.

LIVE MUSIC

BANDS ON THE BEACH Weekly concert series is 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. Upcoming shows: May 21 is Smoke Stak Band. For details, visit visitpensacolabeach. com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach.

ST. CHRISTOPHER'S CONCERTS St. Christopher's Episcopal Church invites you to a free

outdoor concert on the church lawn 6-8 p.m. Thursdays through May 23. Bring your own lawn chairs, snacks/dinner and beverages. Concessions are available. May 16 is NOBIUS. May 23 is The Lads. St. Christopher's Episcopal Church is located at 3200 N. 12th Ave. Visit scpen.org for details.

BLUES ON THE BAY The Modern Eldorados will play Blues on the Bay 6 p.m. Sunday, May 19 at Community Maritime Park, 351 Cedar St. Details are at facebook.com/bluesonthebaypensacola. The next date is Sunday, June 2 with Goldmine.

LIVE MUSIC AT FIVE SISTERS BLUES

CAFÉ Visit Five Sisters, 421 W. Belmont St., for live music on select days.

•John Wheeler 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 16

•Harrison Avenue 6-10 p.m. Friday, May 17

•Glen Parker 6-10 p.m. Saturday, May 18

•Curt Bol 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, May 19

•John Wheeler 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 21

•John Wheeler 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 23

FROM WITHIN SHOWCASE Show is 3 p.m.

Saturday, May 18 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Tickets are $25-$30 and available at thehandlebar850.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT CALVERT'S Listen to live music 5-8 p.m. Sundays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. The band for May 19 is TBD. Civilized Natives will perform May 26. Visit facebook.com/calvertsintheheights for details.

SQUINT, BRAINBURN, SPIRAL, CRADLE

TO GRAVE AND SUBMIT Show is 6 p.m.

Monday, May 20 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Tickets are $10 and available at thehandlebar850.com.

LIVERNOIS, INVA//ID, COMABEARD

Show is 7 p.m. Thursday, May 23 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Tickets are $10 and available at thehandlebar.com.

MURDER ON THE DANCE FLOOR Y2K-era

dance-pop and house music DJ sets 8 p.m. Friday, May 24 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Tickets and information are at thehandlebar850.com.

EYEHATEGOD, CROW ROAD, THE TAINTS, BROKE FLORIDA BOYS AND MORE Show is 6 p.m. Saturday, May 25 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Tickets are $25$30 and available at thehandlebar850.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 every Tuesday night at Lili Marlene's in Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Visit sevillequarter.com for more information.

KARAOKE AT O'RILEY'S UPTOWN Sing your heart out 8 p.m.-midnight Tuesdays at

Nurturing the world within

We are worldbuilders. We develop great minds and inspired leaders. We help children write their own story. Gulf Coast Freedom Schools nurtures the world within through a free, six-week summer literacy and cultural enrichment program for students K-8th grade who reside in Escambia County.

Apply online by May 31, 2024 at gcfreedomschools.com

Where words change worlds

Join us for our fourth-annual Pride festival to celebrate and uplift the LGBTQIA2S+ community!

Saturday, June 15, 2024

10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Pensacola Interstate Fair Expo Hall

• Support LGBTQIA2S+ and ally artist vendors

• Enjoy a variety of performances

• Gather with all ages in a sober environment

Learn more at pensapride.org

Sponsorships available! Email contact@pensapride.org

/PensaPride @pensapride contact@pensapride.org

a&e happenings

O'Riley's Uptown, 3728 Creighton Road. Visit orileystavern.com for details.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT GARY'S BREWERY

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

KARAOKE AT WISTERIA Wisteria Tavern, 3808 N. 12th Ave., hosts karaoke 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Details are at wisteriatavern.com.

WHISKEY WEDNESDAY KARAOKE Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. Wednesdays at Mugs and Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar. com for details.

KARAOKE NIGHTS AT SIR RICHARD'S

Bring your singing talents Monday and Thursday nights at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Festivities are 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.

SUNDAY KARAOKE AT MUGS AND JUGS

Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. Sunday at Mugs and Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar. com for details.

FITNESS + RECREATION

BLUE WAHOOS GAMES Take in a baseball game at the Blue Wahoos stadium, 351 W. Cedar St. For single, group or VIP tickets, visit bluewahoos.com.

Upcoming home games:

•6:05 p.m. Tuesday, May 21

•6:05 p.m. Wednesday, May 22

•6:05 p.m. Thursday, May 24

•6:05 p.m. Friday, May 25

•4:05 p.m. Saturday, May 26

OCEAN HOUR WEEKLY CLEANUPS Ocean

Hour Pensacola hosts weekly cleanups 7:45-9 a.m. Saturdays. On Saturday, May 18 the sites are Wayside Park, and Three Mile Bridge (Gulf Breeze side). Follow Ocean Hour at facebook. com/oceanhourfl for more details and locations.

WBZ SPRING CLASSIC SURF CONTEST

Surf contest starts at 8 a.m. on an undetermined date at Pensacola Beach Pier. Cash prizes and multiple divisions. For details and updates, visit facebook.com/waterboyzsurfandskate.

WALKING TOUR WITH HEALTHY GULF

Tour downtown Pensacola with University of Florida-Milton horticulture professor Dr. Mack Thetford, who has spent nearly three decades studying the performance of trees and landscape plantings in communities, at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18. The tour is free, but registration is required. The tour meeting spot will be shared upon registration. To reserve your spot, email christian@healthygulf. org or call (850) 687-9968.

ISLAND FIGHTS 83 Island Fights 83 show is 7 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Tickets are available online at pensacolabaycenter.com.

NAVY DAYS 4K RUN/WALK Hit the pavement 8 a.m. Saturday, May 18 with this unique

4K (2.4 miles) race starting at Community Maritime Park, 361 W. Cedar St., and looping through downtown to Veterans Memorial Park and back. Come for the race and stay for the parade. Register at adventuresignup.com/race/ fl/pensacola/pensacolanavydays4krun.

SIP AND STRETCH WITH COMMON GROUNDS PENSACOLA Yoga class for all skill levels is 11:45 a.m. Sunday, May 19 at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. Cost is $18 and includes a complimentary beverage. Details are at facebook.com/garysbrew.

FREE YOGA IN THE PARK WITH BREATHE YOGA Enjoy a free, one-hour outdoor yoga class with Breathe Yoga 9:30-10:30 a.m. the first Sunday of the month at Bayview Park, 2001 E. Lloyd St. The next date is June 2.

YOGA WITH MARNI AT HA-YA Visit Ha-Ya Wellness for integrative yoga with Marni 10 a.m. the first and third Saturday of the month at 4301 Spanish Trail Road. Visit facebook.com/asherandbeeapothecary for more information.

HOOK, LINE & SINKER MONTHLY FISHING SEMINAR SERIES Hot Spots Charters hosts a monthly free fishing seminar held at Flounder's Chowder House, 800 Quietwater Beach Road, on Pensacola Beach the first Monday of every month. A free fish dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. with the seminar beginning at 7 p.m. and typically lasting about an hour. Visit facebook.com/hlsseminar for details.

FREE YOGA CLASSES AT EVER'MAN Take a free yoga class at Ever'man, 327 W. Garden St. Visit everman.org for full calendar of events.

LIVE JAZZ AND SWING DANCING From 6:30-11 p.m. the first Friday of each month, enjoy a live band for dancing Lindy, Foxtrot, East Coast and West Coast Swing. This is a fun, friendly atmosphere with lessons for all levels, no partner required. Location is at The Way You Move Dance Studio, 918 Winton Ave. The cost is $15. More information at thewayyoumove.us.

WEST COAST SWING DANCE Join the fun 6:30-10 p.m. Wednesdays for $5 and 6:30-11 p.m. the fourth Saturday of each month for $10. All levels welcomed; no partner required. The Way You Move dance studio is at 918 Winton Ave. More information is at thewayyoumove.us.

BALLROOM, LATIN, SWING DANCE From 6:30-11 p.m. the second Saturday of each month, enjoy a mix of music for all dancers. All levels welcomed; no partner required. The Way You Move dance studio is at 918 Winton Ave. The cost is $10. More information is at thewayyoumove.us.

YOGA CLASSES AT EVER'MAN Beginner Yoga with John is 10 a.m. Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays. Funky Yoga Flow is 6 p.m. Tuesdays, and Vinyasa Yoga Flow is 6 p.m. Thursdays. All classes are at Ever'man, 327 W. Garden St. For a full calendar of events, visit everman.org.

for more listings visit inweekly.net

free will astrology

WEEK OF MAY 16

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Polish-born author Joseph Conrad (1857–1924) didn't begin to speak English until he was 21. At 25, his writing in that language was still stiff and stilted. Yet during the next 40-plus years, he employed his adopted tongue to write 19 novels, numerous short stories and several other books. Today he is regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language. You may not embark on an equally spectacular growth period in the coming months, Aries. But you do have extra power to begin mastering a skill or subject that could ultimately be crucial to your life story. Be inspired by Conrad's magnificent accomplishments.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Hypothetically, you could learn to give a stirring rendering of Beethoven's "Symphony No. 5" on a slide whistle. Or you could perform the "To be or not to be" soliloquy from Shakespeare's "Hamlet" for an audience of pigeons that aren't even paying attention. Theoretically, you could pour out your adoration to an unattainable celebrity or give a big tip to a waiter who provided mediocre service or do your finest singing at a karaoke bar with two people in the audience. But I hope you will offer your skills and gifts with more discernment and panache, Taurus—especially these days. Don't offer yourself carelessly. Give your blessings only to people who deeply appreciate them.

By Rob Brezsny

turning around anytime soon. Don't look back. Onward to the future!

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): Cancerian basketball coach Tara VanDerveer is in the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame. She won more games than anyone else in the sport. Here's one aspect of her approach to coaching. She says that the greatest players "have a screw loose"—and she regards that as a very good thing. I take her to mean that the superstars are eccentric, zealous, unruly and daring. They don't conform to normal theories about how to succeed. They have a wild originality and fanatical drive for excellence. If you might ever be interested in exploring the possible advantages of having a screw loose for the sake of your ambitions, the coming months will be one of the best times ever.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Am I one of your father figures, uncle figures or brother figures? I hope so! I have worked hard to purge the toxic aspects of masculinity I inherited from my culture. And I have diligently and gleefully cultivated the most beautiful aspects of masculinity. Plus, my feminist principles have been ripening and growing stronger for many years. With that as our background, I encourage you to spend the coming weeks upgrading your own relationship to the masculine archetype, no matter which of the 77 genders you might be. I see this as an excellent time for you to take practical measures to get the very best male influences in your life.

can give you shimmery secrets and scintillating stories you need to hear. In my astrological opinion, you are in a phase when you require more fascination, amazement and intrigue than usual. If love and sex are included in the exchange, so much the better—but they are not mandatory elements in your assignment. The main thing is this: For the sake of your mental, physical and spiritual health, you must get your limitations dissolved, your understanding of reality enriched and your vision of the future expanded.

with good opportunities to earn money by doing what you love and providing an excellent service to your fellow creatures. But I'm not necessarily saying everything will unfold with perfection. And I am a bit afraid you will fail to capitalize on your chances by being too insistent on perfection. Please assuage my doubts, Capricorn. Welcome imperfect but interesting progress.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): When I lived in San Francisco in 1995, thieves stole my Chevrolet Malibu. It was during the celebratory mayhem that swept the city following the local football team's Super Bowl victory. Cops miraculously recovered my car, but it had been irrevocably damaged in one specific way: It could no longer drive in reverse. Since I couldn't afford a new vehicle, I kept it for the next two years, carefully avoiding situations when I would need to go backward. It was a perfect metaphor for my life in those days. Now I'm suggesting you consider adopting it for yours. From what I can discern, there will be no

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): Now that your mind, heart and world have opened wider than you imagined possible, try to anticipate how they might close down if you're not always as bold and brave as you have been in recent months. Then sign a contract with yourself, promising you will not permit your mind, heart and world to shrink or narrow. If you proactively heal your fears before they break out, maybe they won't break out. P.S. I will acknowledge there may eventually be a bit of contraction you should allow to fully integrate the changes—but only a bit.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): I would love you to cultivate connections with characters who

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): Scorpio writer Andrew Solomon made a very Scorpionic comment when he wrote, "We all have our darkness, and the trick is making something exalted of it." Of all the signs of the zodiac, you have the greatest potential to accomplish this heroic transmutation—and to do it with panache, artistry and even tenderness. I trust you are ready for another few rounds of your mysterious specialty. The people in your life would benefit from it almost as much as you.

SAGITTARIUS

(NOV. 22-DEC. 21):

Have you been nursing the hope that someday you will retrain your loved ones? That you will change them in ways that make them act more sensibly? That you will convince them to shed qualities you don't like and keep just the good parts? If so, the coming weeks will be an excellent time to drop this fantasy. In its place, I advise you to go through whatever mental gymnastics are necessary as you come to accept and love them exactly as they are. If you can manage that, there will be a bonus development: You will be more inclined to accept and love yourself exactly as you are.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): I brazenly predict in the next 11 months, you will get closer than ever before to doing your dream job. Because of your clear intentions, your diligent pragmatism and the fates' grace, life will present you

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): In his book "Ambivalent Zen: A Memoir," Lawrence Shainberg mourns that even while meditating, his mind is always fleeing from the present moment—forever "lurching towards the future or clinging to the past." I don't agree this is a terrible thing. In fact, it's a consummately human characteristic. Why demonize and deride it? But I can also see the value of spending quality time in the here and now, enjoying each new unpredictable moment without compulsively referencing it to other times and places. I bring this up, Aquarius, because I believe in the coming weeks, you can enjoy far more free time in the rich and resonant present than is normally possible for you. Make "Be here now," your gentle, relaxing battle cry.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): Two-thirds of us claim to have had a paranormal encounter. One-fourth say they can telepathically sense other people's emotions. One-fifth have had conversations with the spirits of the dead. As you might guess, the percentage of Pisceans in each category is higher than all the rest of the zodiac signs. And I suspect that number will be even more elevated than usual in the coming weeks. I hope you love spooky fun and uncanny mysteries and semi-miraculous epiphanies. Here they come.

HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: I dare you to utterly renounce and dispose of a resentment you've held onto for a while. {in}

newsletter.freewillastrology.com freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com © 2024 Rob Brezsny

news of the weird

GREAT ART Rajacenna van Dam, an artist in Vlaardingen, the Netherlands, is capturing the attention of the art world with her ambidextrous approach to her work, AFP reported. The 31-year-old said she originally taught herself to paint with both hands, "to go quicker." When someone challenged her to try painting with her feet, she accepted. Her social media fame has come from painting 10 pictures at once using both her hands and feet. "Doing all this at the same time gives me a sort of feeling of meditation," van Dam said. Her paintings sell for up to $13,000, and she says only she can tell which ones were painted with which limbs. Her talent is more than a party trick; neurologist Onur Gunturkun revealed that a brain scan showed "the left and right sides of her brain are three times more connected than average."

NOW THAT'S COMMITMENT On May 7, at least one voting precinct in India had 100% turnout, AFP reported. Banej, in the protected Gir forest, is the home of Mahant Haridas Udaseen, a 42-year-old Hindu monk who is its only inhabitant. India is trying to reach every voter, so a team of 10 people were required to travel for two days from Gujarat—along unpaved roads through the last remaining habitat of the endangered Asiatic lion—to collect Udaseen's vote. Although he showed up before lunchtime, rules required the election workers to stay until the evening. "In a democracy, every single person is important," said Padhiyar Sursinh, the election officer in a town 40 miles away. Udaseen was an enthusiastic voter: "I am loving the attention that I am getting as a lone voter in the forest," he said.

AWESOME! When a pair of 18k gold diamond earrings from jeweler Cartier popped up on the Instagram feed of Rogelio Villarreal, 27, of Tamaulipas, Mexico, he couldn't resist: They were priced at just $13. "I swear I broke out in a cold sweat," Villarreal said, according to The New York Times. He ordered two pairs, but within a week, Cartier started trying to cancel the order. A Cartier representative called him and said the earrings "were not at the correct price ($13,000) ... and that because of the inconvenience, they would give me a gift," he said—a bottle of champagne and a leather Cartier item. Instead, Villarreal complained to Mexico's Office of the Federal Prosecutor for the Consumer. Ahead of a scheduled hearing in early May, Cartier contacted Villarreal and said the earrings would be delivered.

FAIL When Rhonda Deaver realized she had left her credit card at Smith's Cafe in Kinston, North Carolina, in early May, she turned around and headed back to get it. Unfortunately, a Smith's employee was right on top of things and posted the front and back of Deaver's card to a Kinston Facebook group, with all the numbers visible, WRALTV reported. Deaver's family got in touch with her when they saw the post, but it was too late—more than $2,000 in charges had already hit her account. "I couldn't believe they did that, but I might be responsible for all those charges," Deaver said. There were "a whole lot of declines but a whole lot that

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

went through." She's still disputing the charges; the Smith's owner had no comment.

•The U.S. Department of Homeland Security notified the Akron (Ohio) Police Department's SWAT team that the body armor plates they recently purchased are counterfeit, WJW-TV reported on May 8. "We became part of a bigger investigation," said Capt. Agostino Micozzi. The gear was purchased from China and sold to law enforcement agencies, DHS said. The Akron City Council approved immediate replacement; Micozzi said there might be a chance to get restitution on the counterfeit plates.

NEW

WORLD ORDER Belgium for the prostitutes' rights win! The European country is the first in the world to approve a labor law for employment contracts for sex workers, Yahoo! News reported. To wit: Health insurance, pensions, unemployment and family benefits, holidays and maternity leave are all covered. A pimp can ask for intervention by a government mediator if a prostitute refuses a client more than 10 times over six months but cannot fire the worker. Pimps must have a registered office and apply for approval before they can offer the benefits. Sex workers must also have an alarm button in the room where they ply their trade and can refuse to use Amsterdam-type windows. "With this model, Belgium is really demonstrating that it aims to protect sex workers, regardless of any moral judgments about the profession people may have," said Daan Bauwens, a spokesman for the sex workers' union in Belgium.

ANGER MANAGEMENT, PORK EDITION

George Sandoval was arrested on May 2 at a Subway restaurant in Madeira, California, after he assaulted the store's manager, KMPH-TV reported. Monique Larios said she was called in to the store after a customer complained that there wasn't enough ham on his sandwich. "I did not expect this. He comes around the corner, and I go, 'What are you going to do, hit me over ham?' and he hit me," Larios said. "I still can't feel half my face. I'm 4'11", and this guy was 6'5", almost 400 pounds," she said. Sandoval was charged with battery.

BRIGHT IDEA Contractors working on the Family Fare grocery store in Midland, Texas, in late April discovered an extension cord on the roof, the Midland Daily News reported. They followed the cord to the large sign at the front of the roof, where they discovered 34-year-old "Rooftop Ninja," as they dubbed her, living inside. Midland Police Department Public Relations Officer Brennon Warren said the woman had lived in the sign for about a year. She had flooring, a small desk, a pantry of food and a houseplant. She was not charged, but she was evicted from her rooftop home and offered housing assistance. {in}

From Andrews McMeel Syndication News Of The Weird © 2024 Andrews McMeel