Pensacola, FL
winners & losers winners losers
FORK CANCER PENSACOLA The fundraiser raised $150,000 to support the American Cancer Society's North Florida Road to Recovery program. The funds will provide free transportation to treatment for local cancer patients. Agapi Bistro and Garden, Bonelli's, The Burrow, The District: Seville Steak & Seafood, The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar, Jackson's Steakhouse, Pearl & Horn, Joe Patti's Seafood, Summer Sushi, Tacos El Fluffy, Red Fish Blue Fish and Union Public House served culinary specialties. Plans are already underway for Fork Cancer Pensacola 2026, continuing the community's commitment to fighting cancer through this annual fundraising tradition.
SAM YOUNG The Pensacola Habitat for Humanity CEO has been appointed to the Federal Reserve Board's Community Advisory Council (CAC), positioning him to influence national policies on affordable housing, economic development and financial inclusion. The CAC provides diverse perspectives on the economic circumstances and financial needs of consumers and communities, particularly low- and moderate-income populations. Young's appointment ensures Northwest Florida's concerns are represented at the federal level. His leadership in innovative housing solutions, including the Northwest Florida Community Land Trust, strengthens his advocacy position.
GULF WINDS FOUNDATION Its second annual "Chip in Fore Charity" golf tournament raised over $78,000 for charitable activities. The fullroster event featured a classic four-player scramble with a $10,000 hole-in-one challenge and various on-course games. Proceeds will support the Gulf Winds Annual Scholarship Program and local nonprofit organizations, including Manna Food Pantry, Council on Aging of West Florida, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and Rally Foundation. Clay Mallard, Billy Burch, Dale Wright and Louie Roberson claimed first place in the tournament.
ANDERSON SUBARU Billy Anderson and his dealership donated $41,070 to the Pensacola Breast Cancer Association (PBCA), continuing their commitment to fighting breast cancer locally. This contribution came from their annual Share the Love event. Since 2014, Anderson Subaru has donated over $190,000 to PBCA, funding free education and mammograms for underserved patients across the Florida Panhandle. Barbara Dean, PBCA Vice President, noted: "Anderson Subaru's donation will make a profound impact on countless lives in our community."
FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC PARTY On April 24, Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo declared that the "Democrat Party in Florida is dead" as he officially left to become an independent voter. His departure marks the latest in a string of defections that have weakened the already struggling party, which now holds just 10 of 40 Senate seats. The announcement followed earlier losses when two House Democrats switched to the Republican Party after November's elections. Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried responded harshly, calling Pizzo "one of the most ineffective and unpopular Democratic leaders in recent memory." Republicans continue to dominate Florida politics, leaving Democrats scrambling as Sen. Lori Berman hastily replaces Pizzo just days before the legislative session ends.
RON PAC Restore Our Nation (RON) PAC, Gov. Ron DeSantis's presidential campaign leftovers rebranded as a political attack dog, sent angry text messages to constituents attacking Rep. Alex Andrade in hopes of forcing him to back off his investigation into First Lady Casey DeSantis' Hope Florida initiative. RON's scorched-earth tactics backfired spectacularly, with Andrade and other targeted lawmakers publicly mocking the governor's "petty lies." Once touted as a fundraising powerhouse, the political committee now epitomizes a political operation in free fall—desperately texting voters while Republican legislators laugh off its increasingly ineffective threats.
JOEL RUDMAN The former state representative from Navarre cemented his loser status after resigning from the Pensacola State College Board of Trustees. This departure marks his second major defeat in less than a year, following his failed congressional bid, where he couldn't manage to advance past the primary. The "aggressive nominee" fled his confirmation hearing, texting his resignation to Chairman Don Gaetz while hiding overseas in Spain. Rudman's bizarre threat to expose fellow lawmakers for alleged drug violations fell flat when he failed to appear before waiting law enforcement officers. Previously rejected unanimously by the Senate Higher Education Appropriations Committee, Rudman's political career continues its downward spiral. His claims about House leadership abandoning conservative values ring hollow as his appointment collapses, making him the third DeSantis trustee nominee to resign in defeat this month.
outtakes
By Rick Outzen
TOO MUCH VEEP
When Rep. Alex Andrade described Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration as running "far more akin to 'Veep' than 'House of Cards,'" he didn't just make a pop culture reference; he delivered a devastating assessment of the wannabe president's administration, drowning in its own incompetence.
"House of Cards" portrays politics as a Machiavellian chess game with calculating, ruthless operators executing complex schemes. "Veep," on the other hand, shows politics as a circus of ego-driven blunders and petty rivalries masked by desperate image management.
"These people might be petty, they're certainly incompetent, but it's comical how incompetent they are," Andrade told me. "We're not sending our best to the governor's office right now. These people are not doing a good job of even covering their tracks, and they simply refuse to produce information and hope people kind of forget about it and gets swept under the rug."
He is referring to Hope Florida Foundation scandal. Rather than carefully covering their tracks, the administration has seemingly tripped at every turn.
Consider the facts: A $10 million portion of a Medicaid settlement with healthcare giant Centene was diverted to the First Lady's Hope Florida Foundation—money that should have returned to state and federal coffers. From there, it quickly flowed to Securing Florida's Future and Save Our Society from Drugs (SOS), organizations that funneled millions to a political committee fighting last year's marijuana ballot initiative—a committee controlled by then-Chief of Staff James Uthmeier, who has since been appointed Attorney General.
Okay, I will admit that part sounds like a "House of Cards" episode. However, when Andrade began investigating, the administration's response wasn't calculated subterfuge but rather chaotic deflection. At Pensacola State College, DeSantis publicly melted down, calling the Florida House "rotten" and accusing GOP lawmakers of "behaving more like Democrats." The governor told the room packed with Santa Rosa County crazies that the House leadership was "stabbing you in the back."
Meanwhile, Andrade and the media across the state uncovered that the Hope Florida
Foundation had been distributing checks to charities and churches for over two years, even before receiving the $10 million windfall, all without employees, articles of incorporation or bylaws. The foundation had never filed a Form 990, the federal tax return for nonprofits.
Despite Gov. DeSantis' bold claims about raising "massive amounts of money" through his Governor's Cup charity golf tournament, we found that the tournament raised $425,000 but spent $442,706, resulting in a net loss of $17,806.
Andrade requested that the key figures in this scandal, including Uthmeier, foundation attorney Jeff Aaron, and the heads of Securing Florida's Future and SOS, testify before his House committee. However, they refused to appear, forcing Andrade to end his probe.
Then, SOS's Ann Ronshausen finally entered the fray with accusations against Andrade, which he flatly denied. The web of conflicting accounts grew even more tangled.
Like Selina Meyer's fictional administration in "Veep," we are witnessing an operation more focused on image and deflection than on governance, characterized by finger-pointing, temper tantrums and a fundamental inability to handle scrutiny. Every day, the governor's office proves Andrade's point: "These people are not doing a good job of even covering their tracks."
The parallel to "Veep" becomes even clearer when we consider DeSantis' recent visit to Pensacola, where he attempted to frame a legitimate investigation as a personal attack: "When they're attacking me, they're attacking you." This reflects the self-important, victim-mentality politics that "Veep" so brilliantly satirized.
While the administration may wish it operated with the calculated precision of "House of Cards," the reality is much closer to the bumbling chaos of "Veep." However, this isn't fiction—it's Florida's executive branch, and the $10 million in question was real taxpayer money.
As Rep. Andrade has stated, "In the real world, if someone defrauded the state or a charity of $10 million, someone would go to prison."
What happens next remains to be seen, but as federal authorities potentially address the matter, one thing seems clear: The DeSantis administration's incompetence may prove to be its undoing. {in} rick@inweekly.net
GO PUBLIC. GO GLOBAL.
A brief conversation between Global Learning Academy Principal Lalla Pierce and a fourthgrade student concludes with Pierce saying, "I love you" to the boy.
Global teachers and administrators commonly use the phrase "I love you" or "I care about you" to lift students' spirits. A Title I school located on Pace Boulevard, Global is home to students from predominantly low-income families.
The school stands out as a shiny palace compared to other structures on that stretch of Pace Boulevard. The North and South America placard centered over four pillars in front of the glass entrance is eye-catching. Step inside, and each hallway represents a continent with life lesson signs posted everywhere. One sign states, "WHALE done! Follow the P.A.C.T. Practice honesty. Accept responsibility. Choose respect. Think safe." with a whale at the bottom. The state-of-the-art media room and outdoor greenhouse further enhance the academy.
"If I can get them in the building and see what we got, it sells itself," Pierce said.
And therein lies the challenge. Enrollment at Escambia Public Schools is dropping precipitously. School district enrollment is down by over 700 students from a year ago and almost 3,700 students over the past 10 years. That marks a 10year decline of 9%.
At 490 students, Global is slightly up from the previous three years but still significantly below its enrollment of 663 during the 2017-18 school year. Its diverse student population is 69% Black, about 12% Hispanic and 12% white. Multiracial and Asian students round out the population.
the school zone. Another challenge is remind ing guardians to register their kindergarten students in time for school. Global commonly opens the school year with about 30 kindergarten students and finishes the same school year with triple that number.
Pierce is on a mission to change these enrollment issues with the slogan, "Go Public. Go Global." The school mailed cards with the slogan and "Enroll now at escambiaschools.org/gla."
PRIVATE VS. PUBLIC
Like other schools in the district, Global is competing with private schools for students in its backyard. A stroke of the pen from Gov. Ron DeSantis opened the floodgates for students to attend private schools in Florida. In 2023, DeSantis signed universal school choice into law. The legislation expanded the state voucher system to all K-12 students by eliminating income eligibility limits on the taxpayer-funded program. The state first began offering vouchers when Republican Jeb Bush served as governor.
A voucher is about $8,700 per student, roughly the same amount school districts receive in unweighted per-student funding from the state. Escambia County is feeling an immediate impact, with the number of students funded by Step Up For Students scholarship programs increasing by nearly 1,000 to over 4,800. Step Up For Students funds private school and homeschool scholarships.
Global stacks up favorably with any school from an aesthetics and amenities standpoint— perhaps too favorably. The school is next to the
enter the classroom without a pre-K education and start school at a disadvantage compared to their classmates.
Still, Reed pushes on, and by this late date in the school year, she sees the fruits of her labor.
"We take these babies who start and can't even recognize their own name in print, and they're now reading sentences and trying to read books and are wanting to do more of it," Reed said.
VISIBLE IMPROVEMENTS
Tanessa Schulte is another Global teacher recognized for her excellence in the classroom. The Florida Department of Education selected Schulte for its 2024-25 High Impact Teacher Corps. The department selects teachers based on their student learning results over multiple years.
As a fifth-grade teacher, Schulte is on the opposite end of the spectrum from Reed. She is the final stop for the students before they head off to middle school.
"For fifth grade, a big problem that we have tends to be behaviors as they kind of get a little bit older, but the behaviors are so much more manageable and managed now, so that's been huge," Schulte said.
"The biggest thing we hear is, 'I didn't know that it was a public school' or, 'I didn't know that it's an elementary school,'" said kindergarten teacher Kelly Reed. "Then a lot of people are like, 'Oh, I didn't even know that existed.' We're like the hidden gem of downtown."
In February, the school district honored Reed as its teacher of the year. Reed is about to complete her third year at Global, and each year, she encounters the same challenge.
"About half of them come in and are kindergarten-ready. Normally, it's the ones that have gone through some sort of pre-K program," Reed said. "We still get some kids that have never been taught anything academic, like they're not ready to follow directions. They're not ready to sit in chairs and have those kinds of skills. So it's still very much a mixed bag."
"The biggest thing we hear is, 'I didn't know that it was a public school.'" Kelly Reed
Reed starts from day one with intervention. She lays the groundwork for her students with targeted instruction on the alphabet and numbers. Students learn a letter a day for the first 26 days and a number for the first 20 days.
"That's all we focus on for those first few days. It's routines and procedures," she said. "This is the letter A. This is what it looks like. This is how we write it, and this is what we call it. And the same thing with number one."
The influx of late enrollees complicates matters further for Reed. Late enrollees usually
A correlation exists between improved behavior and improved attendance. The average daily attendance at Global is 90.47%, the highest since pre-COVID. The percentage of chronically absent is down to 28.49%, a dramatic improvement from the 40-67% range in 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23.
The improved attendance and academic growth from an "F" school to a "C" stems from increased parent involvement.
"We've seen academic growth between the students coming up from the lower grades, up into fifth grade, and there's more parent involvement than there used to be, for sure," Schulte said. "More parent involvement almost always means higher-performing students, better-behaved students and students who are more eager to learn."
So why is a school with a state-of-the-art facility, award-winning teachers, improved academic performance and decreased behavior issues marketing aggressively for students? Some guardians simply covet a private-school education for their children, while others fixate on the past failures of the school district. Test scores indicate Escambia County Public Schools are on the rise, but the stigma of underperforming for decades remains in the public consciousness.
Pierce considers that to be an off-base perception. Her parents taught for a combined 84 years in the school district. Her mom retired after 35 years as a kindergarten teacher, and her dad served as a civics teacher and administrator for 49 years. Pierce and her four children each graduated from Escambia County public schools.
"I am passionate about making a difference in our community," Pierce said, "and creating a school and district where every child gets an excellent education."
For more information on Global Learning Academy, visit escambiaschools.org/gla. {in}
Global Learning Academy / Photo Courtesy of Escambia County Public Schools
RECORD-SETTING DAY The University of West Florida exceeded its fundraising goals during the seventh annual Day of Giving, raising more than $194,000 from 1,256 alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the University.
The annual 24-hour, online, social mediadriven fundraising initiative was held on April 17 during UWF's Founders Week. This year's Day of Giving marked more than $1 million raised from UWF's Day of Giving events over the last seven years.
"The outpouring of generosity from UWF supporters on Day of Giving was inspiring," said Howard Reddy, vice president for University Advancement. "The resounding success of this day is a direct reflection on the deep and unwavering commitment of our alumni, friends and community partners, whose contributions are a cornerstone of the University's strength and ongoing success."
This year, the University had a campaign fundraising goal of $175,000 and an individual gift goal of 1,200, tying back to the University's broader Here for Good campaign, which aims to surpass its goal of $90 million.
This year's goals were met with the help of generous matching gifts from alumna Pam Schwartz, President Emeritus Judy Bense, Levin Papantonio Law Firm and the Florida Engineering Society. Brett Berg, Alan Gahm, President Emeritus Morris Marx, Jeff Walker, and Jim and Melba Morrow also provided generous challenge gifts.
Participants were directed to make gifts to 13 featured fund areas on dayofgiving.uwf.edu. Athletics raised the most money, bringing in more than $39,000. Of UWF's four colleges, the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering received the most donations, totaling more than $26,000.
Depending on the gift amount, participants had the option to receive a UWF Day of Giving bandana, a pair of exclusive UWF socks, a special UWF hat or all three items with a limited-edition print only available for Day of Giving 2025. For more information, visit dayofgiving.uwf.edu.
SOAP OPERA CONTINUES
DeSantis-Hope Florida melodrama took another unexpected turn when Ann Ronshausen, Executive Director of Save Our Society from Drugs (SOS), sent a letter, dated April 24, to Florida House Speaker Danny Perez addressing allegations surrounding a grant her organization received from the Hope Florida Foundation.
In her statement, Ronshausen claimed she had a phone call with Rep. Alex Andrade, chairman of the House Healthcare Budget Subcommittee, after he allegedly pressured her lobbyist, RJ Myers, to make her appear for the call. According to Ronshausen's account, she participated in this meeting under duress due to concerns about potential funding losses for the Drug Free America Foundation and the threat of a subpoena if she didn't cooperate.
Ronshausen alleged Chairman Andrade promised confidentiality during their discussion but subsequently shared information from their meeting with the media. She further disputes public statements attributed to Andrade, claiming that James Uthmeier approved SOS's use of Hope Florida grant funds for a campaign opposing Amendment 3.
"At no time has James Uthmeier directed me or SOS on how to use funds received from an entirely appropriate grant from Hope Florida," Ronshausen wrote in her letter. She states she is consulting with legal counsel regarding next steps in the matter.
Andrade texted Inweekly: "None of that happened, by the way."
The Tampa Bay Times interviewed Myers, who said he approached Andrade with information about his client, which prompted Andrade to request the meeting over the phone.
Ronshausen sent the letter after she had refused to testify before the House Healthcare Budget Subcommittee.
The controversy involves $10 million from a $67 million Medicaid settlement with Centene Corporation that was directed to the Hope Florida Foundation, First Lady Casey DeSantis' initiative, as a "voluntary charitable contribution" instead of going to state accounts (Inweekly, "Follow the Money," 4/24/25).
Critics allege these funds were then channeled through two nonprofits—Secure Florida's Future and Save Our Society from Drugs—which subsequently transferred approximately $8.5 million to a political committee called Keep Florida Clean. This committee, chaired by James Uthmeier, then Gov. DeSantis' chief of staff and now state attorney general, primarily opposed a 2024 ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida.
Andrade publicly accused Uthmeier and Hope Florida Foundation attorney Jeff Aaron of money laundering and wire fraud. Gov. DeSantis, Attorney General Uthmeier and their allies deny any wrongdoing, calling the allegations politically motivated.
The Florida House abruptly ended its investigation on April 24 due to the lack of cooperation from key figures. Any further action,
including possible criminal charges, is now in the hands of federal law enforcement agencies.
BYE BYE The Florida Senate Committee on Ethics and Elections rejected Adam Kissel's nomination to the University of West Florida Board of Trustees by a narrow 5-4 vote, ending his confirmation process.
During the hearing, Kissel highlighted his Florida connections, noting his family's nearly 40year history in the state and his 1990 graduation as valedictorian from Countryside High School in Clearwater, Fla. He emphasized his higher education experience, including positions at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, the Charles Koch Foundation and the U.S. Department of Education during former President Trump's first term.
Committee Chair Senator Don Gaetz questioned Kissel about his previous advocacy for privatizing public universities. Kissel characterized these as long-term libertarian ideals that wouldn't interfere with supporting increased UWF funding in the near term. Senator Tina Polsky questioned his views on free speech, academic freedom and connections to Project 2025.
Former UWF leaders expressed strong opposition to Kissel's appointment. Suzanne Lewis, who served 14 years as a trustee, questioned whether Kissel could properly understand "the community, the commitment, the faculty, the staff" to serve effectively. Dr. Judy Bense, UWF President Emeritus, emphasized trust concerns, stating the UWF community struggles to trust Kissel regarding funding and university operations.
During committee discussions, Senator Erin Grall supported Kissel's nomination, arguing his transparency about his opinions was valuable. Senator Jay Collins agreed, suggesting Kissel's unique perspective would "fill gaps" on the board. However, Senator Polsky opposed the nomination, stating she would honor requests from UWF representatives and echoing trust concerns expressed by the former president.
Following the 5-4 vote against confirmation, Senator Gaetz announced, "Mr. Kissel is not confirmed, and his name will not be forwarded to the Senate."
FUNDING CRISIS
The Council on Aging of West Florida is confronting a severe funding crisis threatening essential senior volunteer programs in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Recent administrative disruptions at AmeriCorps have created uncertainty about funding continuity beyond April 2025.
"On Wednesday night, late at night, we got word that most of the people, the staff at the national federal level for AmeriCorps, were laid off," said Emily Echevarria, Marketing Communications Director for the Council on Aging.
The administrative upheaval has effectively severed communication channels critical for accessing allocated funds. Alesia Macklin, Director of Senior Volunteer Programs, explained, "I can't get in touch with our regional portfolio
manager or our administration in DC. Everyone is on admin leave."
The affected AmeriCorps Seniors programs include Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions. Foster Grandparents work in daycares, Head Start programs and public schools, offering tutoring, mentoring and nurturing to children needing additional support. Senior Companions assist other older adults in homes and assisted living facilities, helping them maintain independence and providing caregiver respite.
"We have metrics, we have compliance. We are not just out here just willy-nilly spending these dollars," Macklin said. "We actually have the paperwork to show you every single solitary thing that we're doing and how we're being fiscally responsible."
The programs show clear impacts, particularly in education. Macklin noted, "I can tell you specific stories of children who were not realizing gains in their vocabulary, their literacy, and now all of a sudden this child has gone from here to there because of the granny being in the school."
For Senior Companions, benefits extend to healthcare economics: "You don't have to use your Medicaid and your Medicare because we are taking care of you here. So you're not in a longterm care facility, you're not in a rehab, you're not at an ER."
"This program is as much for those volunteers as it is for the people they serve," notes Echevarria. "They all tell me when I go in and do an impact story and talk about their experience, they say, 'I don't know what I would be doing with my time. I would be more sedentary. I would be less engaged; I would be less connected.'"
Please contact Congressman Jimmy Patronis to express your concern at patronis.house.gov or (202) 225-4136.
KUDOS The University of West Florida (UWF) has again distinguished itself in cybersecurity education, securing second place in the 2024 CAE-CD Community Outreach Award Competition. This marks the third consecutive year UWF has ranked among the top two institutions out of more than 450 NCAE-C designated universities and colleges nationwide, following a second-place finish in 2023 and a first-place win in 2022.
"This national recognition reflects the outstanding work of the UWF Center for Cybersecurity," said UWF Provost Dr. Jaromy Kuhl.
The recognition reinforces UWF's mission to lead by example and empower others through innovative outreach. Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president for the UWF Center for Cybersecurity, said, "Giving back to our communities is at the heart of what we do." This recognition reinforces UWF's mission to lead by example and empower others through innovative outreach.
UWF earned this distinction through several initiatives, including free training programs for veterans, first responders and government personnel addressing critical workforce development needs. Youth engagement efforts like the UWF Cyber Ambassadors Program and GenCyber Pathways Summer Camps inspire the next generation of cybersecurity professionals
Dr. Martha Saunders / Photo Courtesy of UWF
with hands-on experiences for K-12 students. Community education events such as Night of Cyber and participation in Cybersecurity Awareness Month have expanded public understanding of cybersecurity principles.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, UWF's leadership in cybersecurity education plays an increasingly vital role in preparing skilled professionals and creating a more secure digital environment. For more information, visit uwf.edu/cybersecurity.
RUDMAN RESIGNS Former Florida State Representative Joel Rudman resigned from the Pensacola State College Board of Trustees before his scheduled confirmation hearing with the Senate Committee on Ethics and Elections. Committee Chairman Senator Don Gaetz announced Tuesday that Rudman sent a text to his office submitting his resignation.
Gaetz described Rudman as an "aggressive nominee" who had allegedly threatened to release a list of state lawmakers who violated drug laws "depending upon how this committee behaved." The chairman noted that Florida Department of Law Enforcement officers were present at the hearing ready to "take down all the evidence and all the names," but "Dr. Rudman has not favored us with his appearance."
Over the weekend, Sen. Gaetz had informed Inweekly that Rudman would not appear before the committee because he was out of the country. Social media posts showed Rudman was in Spain last week.
This resignation comes after the Senate Higher Education Appropriations Committee unanimously voted against Rudman's appointment on April 15.
Rudman, a Republican from Navarre, previously left his House seat to run unsuccessfully for Congress in a special election, losing in the primary to Jimmy Patronis. After that defeat, Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed him to the PSC board in February.
At a DeSantis media event at Pensacola State College on April 15, Rudman explained his decision to resign from the Florida House, claiming that during a November legislative orientation session, House leadership explicitly told Republican members they would no longer follow Gov. DeSantis' lead, allegedly using vulgar language.
"As the second most conservative member of the Florida House, I couldn't go along with this agenda," Rudman said, describing the current chamber as a "runaway house" that is "running away from conservative ideals."
Rudman is the third DeSantis appointee to resign from Northwest Florida college or university boards this month, following Gates Garcia and Scott Yenor, who both stepped down from the University of West Florida board of trustees while awaiting Senate confirmation.
OPERATION
EAGLE CLAW Last week marked the 45th anniversary of Operation Eagle Claw, the ill-fated mission to rescue American hostages held in Tehran, Iran. At Hurlburt Field, members of the Air Force Special Operations Command
(AFSOC) and the 1st Special Operations Wing gathered alongside veterans and family members to honor the eight service members who lost their lives during this pivotal moment in military history.
The ceremony, held at the Hurlburt Field Memorial Air Park, commemorated not just a tragedy but a transformative event that would forever reshape American special operations.
On April 24, 1980, American forces embarked on a rescue mission into hostile territory. Their objective was clear: bring home 52 American citizens who had been held hostage in Tehran since November 4, 1979. The joint-services operation brought together elite personnel from across the military branches, including five Air Commandos from Hurlburt Field's 1st Special Operations Wing.
Disaster struck as the mission unfolded at the staging area known as Desert One in the Iranian desert. During withdrawal preparations, a helicopter collided with a transport aircraft carrying both personnel and jet fuel. The resulting fire claimed eight lives and marked the mission as a tactical failure—yet paradoxically planted the seeds for strategic transformation.
At the remembrance ceremony, Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, AFSOC commander, reflected on the significance of this moment. The commander remembered the events at Desert One not just as a moment of loss but as an inflection point forged by those who had the courage to attempt the mission.
The lessons learned from Operation Eagle Claw directly contributed to the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) creation in 1987 and the establishment of AFSOC in 1990.
Retired Chief Master Sgt. Bill Walter, who attended the ceremony, noted that the Air Commando motto—"Any Time, Any Place"—isn't merely a slogan but a way of life embodied by those who participated in Operation Eagle Claw.
The adaptability and commitment demonstrated that night in the Iranian desert continues to impact today's special operators. Lt. Gen. Conley observed that the sacrifice of those eight servicemen reminds everyone of the cost of readiness, the courage it takes to lead from the front and the responsibility they bear to honor this legacy through excellence in everything they do.
POP
MURAL TOUR
The UWF Historic Trust will host the POP Mural Trolley Tour in downtown Pensacola on Wednesday, May 7. This evening excursion explores downtown's impressive collection of public murals while celebrating the city's rich heritage.
Participants will journey through America's first settlement, guided by living history actors who bring Pensacola's stories to life. Each curated mural stop pairs with themed culinary offerings, creating a multisensory experience that connects visual art with local flavors. The tour highlights how these urban artworks preserve and interpret Pensacola's diverse cultural narratives.
Space is limited, making advance reservations essential for those seeking to experience Pensacola's creative landscape. To learn more, visit historicpensacola.org. {in}
FRIDAY
Golf Tournament Night at the Museum Gala
SATURDAY
Tickets available on the website. Navy Days
Just like we have every year for the last 25 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 fries 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
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Best Boss
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Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests
Best Annual Event
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Best Parade
Best Regular/Reoccurring Event
Best Free Thing To Do
Best Neighborhood
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Best Playground
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Best Dance Studio
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Best TV Station
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services
B est Hair S alon-Pensacola
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Best Construction Company
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Best Tattoo & Piercing Studio
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Best Mobile Event Service/Experience
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▶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, 2025.
▶mail your ballot to Best of the Coast c/o Inweekly, PO Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591
▶required info
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B est Gym
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Best Children's Apparel & Gifts
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Best Thrift Store
Best Athletic/Outdoor Store
Best Furniture/Home Decor Store
Best Antiques
Best Vintage Shop/Seller
Best Market/Shopping Event
Best Maker/Artisan
Best Gift Shop
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
B est Place to Propose
Best Place to Buy an Engagement Ring
Best Ceremony Venue
Best Reception Venue
Best Officiant
Best Bridal Store
Best Bridal Makeup Artist
Best Wedding Hair Salon
Best Wedding Hair Stylist
Best Wedding Planning
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
B est 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 Server
Best Coffee Shop
Best Barista
Best Outdoor Dining
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 Appetizers
Best Pastries
Best Breakfast Dish/Menu Item
Best Grits
Best Donuts
Best 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 Lunch Specials
Best Weekly Special
Best Cooking Classes
Best Food Manufacturer
Best Beverage Manufacturer
Best Mobile Beverage Service
bars, drinks & nightlife
B est 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 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 Neighborhood Bar
Best Pet-Friendly Bar
Best Bar With a View
Best Bar Ambiance
Best Bar for Games
Best Trivia Night
Best Karaoke Night
Best Pub Crawl/Bar Event
Best Bar for Live Music
Best Bar Food
Changing
Foster parents provide loving homes to some of the most vulnerable in our community, including children with complex conditions, as well as adults with intellectual disabilities and other special needs.
When you become a foster parent through Lakeview Center – Northwest Florida’s leader in behavioral health care – you have the support of our specialized team alongside you on this rewarding journey.
Arts & Entertainment
Meet You in The Middle(Tones)
By Savannah Evanoff
since I started working with her, I was able to find my operatic tone, if you will."
They worked together until he graduated from West Florida High School in 2020—during a pandemic, and possibly the worst time in recent memory for anyone to be sorting out their future. Staying grounded during a tough period earned him a full scholarship to pursue music at UWF.
But Middleton was not your typical music major. He interned three out of four college summers starting freshman year under mentor Aaron Watson at The Watson Firm.
"The cool thing is, I really didn't know what God had intended for me, but I knew that I was just soaking up all the experiences that I could. I was learning so much from Mr. Watson and his firm, how he was running it, and how he was just trying to inspire me," Middleton said. "He knew exactly how I was as a singer as well, so I was telling him like, 'I really want to be a singer, but I also want to be an attorney—but also not his type of attorney.' I told him that I wanted to be the type of attorney that represented other artists like me, one learning how to represent myself to other people as I do different gigs while I was on campus."
With help from an academic adviser, he crafted a double major in vocal performance and arts administration, a combo designed to help him one day run his own firm.
"I took accounting for non-majors, I took a marketing fundamentals class—I was all across the board," Middleton said. "So whenever I wasn't singing, I was going to my marketing classes, I was going to my financial classes and different things like that. But that was all for me to learn how to essentially run my business that I founded right after I graduated college, and it helped me so much."
His next vocal coach, Corey McKern, the artistic director of Pensacola Opera, connected him with gigs across Northwest Florida.
there were so many people that had the courage to come up to me and be like, 'Bro, you're the singer who,' because I will often do the national anthem at different UWF events too … and then people telling me how much my voice surprised them, because most people do say they don't expect this voice to come out of a short man like me—but also just telling me how much it inspired them and how much they wanted to do this, and other people and other artists who wanted to learn how to record their own music and do this and do that with their music."
He felt seen. And while studying for his second LSAT—he still plans to take it—all he could hear was music.
Middleton had already danced around the idea of vocal coaching. He recalled a vocal pedagogy class where he taught an instrumentalist how to sing.
"I remember recalling what Miss Hanan would tell me, what Professor McKern would tell me, and all those things were just coming back," Middleton said. "I remember the amount of energy that I was putting into this. And at the end of that class, he was telling me, 'Bro, I feel great about singing.' I saw how just the amount of energy and what I recall from what my teachers instilled in me, and how I was communicating that to my other students, it was clicking for them as well. So then I was like, 'Okay, maybe I'm good at this.'"
Then, a close friend asked for a singing lesson. Afterward, that friend insisted on paying, though Middleton declined.
"He's like, 'Do you know you can do this? Like, you can really do this,' and it stuck with me," Middleton said. "That story really plays back in my head a lot, because it shows me I don't know where I'd be today had I not listened."
Torn between law school and vocal coaching, Middleton prayed—asking God to show him the way by giving him a name for the business. He received one: MiddleTones.
phone landed him on the University of West Flor ida's (UWF's) homecoming court representing "people who look like him," singing about equality with Pensacola Children's Chorus in the wake of George Floyd's murder and postponing law school to follow his calling: starting his own vocal coaching business. As founder of MiddleTones, Middleton plans to teach young students everything from proper vowels in vocals to singing for what they believe in.
"As long as I am in Pensacola, I want to make sure that I'm giving as much as I can to this younger generation," Middleton said.
FINDING HIS VOICE
Middleton's musical journey began early— banging on pots and pans in the kitchen with his his life.
"I remember vividly my mom was still working at the hospital by then, so she had my grandfather take me to the auditions," Middleton said. "I was nervous out of my mind, but I made it in, and I am now an eight-year [alumnus] of the Pensacola Children's Chorus. That's where I really learned how to get out of my comfort zone."
In his first few years, Middleton was a shy, behind-the-scenes kind of chorus member—until his first vocal coach Hanan Tarabay Reddy heard his potential.
"[She] came up to me right after rehearsal and was like, 'You have a voice in there, and I want you to unlock it,'" Middleton said. "She invited me to start studying at her studio and ever
"Had it not been for him and for other people seeing that light in me to carry messages like that, I don't know where I would be today," Middleton said.
MEETING HIMSELF IN THE MIDDLE
Middleton was juggling LSAT prep courses, singing the national anthem at football and basketball games, interning at a law firm and building a foundation for what would become MiddleTones—his music and coaching brand—before he'd even crossed the commencement stage.
And as life pulled him in every direction, Middleton was nominated for homecoming court.
"Even though I didn't win, that was probably one of the most joy-filled weeks, because
He filed the LLC three weeks later.
"We specialize in vocal coaching, live performances, and then one of my next big announcements is musical jingles," Middleton said. "I was like, 'Dang, that is a good name; like, meeting people in the middle, whether you're an experienced singer, whether you are a first-time singer, I'm here to meet you in the middle and create songs.'" He also now teaches music at Dixon School of Arts & Sciences and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, all while mentoring his young cousins in singing. {in}
ETHAN MIDDLETON
@ethankmiddleton, @middletonesllc facebook.com/ethanmsing
Ethan Middleton / Courtesy Photo
a&e happenings
NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS
FIRST ANNUAL TOAST ON THE COAST: A NIGHT OF FUN, PHILANTHROPY AND COASTAL CHARM
Raise your glass and celebrate in style at the First Annual Toast on the Coast, taking place 5-10 p.m. Friday, May 3 at Fairfield Inn & Suites Pensacola Beach, 16 Via de Luna Drive. Tickets are $100. Proceeds support Pensacola Beach Elementary School (PBES). Details at toastonthecoast.org.
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 ADOPTION
Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.
CARING & SHARING MINISTRY FOOD
DRIVE
The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens 10 a.m. and also has clothing. Food donations needed are poptop 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) 7233390 for details.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ESCAMBIA COUNTY ANIMAL WELFARE'S PETPALOOZA
The Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare invites the public to the first "Petpalooza" event Saturday, May 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Animal Welfare and Adoption Center, located at 200 W. Fairfield Drive. This event is free and open to the public. During the event, attendees will enjoy free pet adoptions, food trucks, vendors, pet resources and more. New playground equipment for the shelter dogs will also be unveiled during the event. Visit 24petconnect.com to see a full list of adoptable pets in Escambia County.
UWF COMMENCEMENT Commencement ceremonies are 9:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Details at pensacolabaycenter.com. Watch the live broadcast at wuwf.org.
HOME SWEET HOME: BLOCK PARTY AT THE STADIUM Live music, food trucks, bounce houses and a charity kickball game. Event is 2-6 p.m. Sunday, May 4 at Community Maritime Park, 351 W. Cedar St. Details at tridenthomeloans.com/homesweethomegulfcoast.
PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT Commencement ceremony is 5 p.m. Friday, May 8 at Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Details at pensacolabaycenter.com.
U.S. COAST GUARD CUTTERS TOURS Public tours will be available of USCG Cutters Walnut, Willow, Joshua Appleby, Harry Claiborne and Barbara Mabrity at Plaza DeLuna May 9-11. Times vary. Details at pensacolanavydays.com.
FUN FEST AT PLAZA DELUNA Family fun
with a Kids Zone, food trucks, military vehicle displays, ROTC demos, USCG vessel tours and a military/veterans fair. Event starts at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 10. Details at pensacolanavydays.com.
NAVY DAYS PARADE Enjoy a waterfront parade featuring military equipment, marching squadrons, Sailors of the Year, bands, drill teams and support from local Mardi Gras Krewes 10 a.m. Saturday, May 10 along Bayfront Parkway. Details at pensacolanavydays.com.
COMMUNITY ACADEMY RESOURCE FAIR
Presented by Real Women Radio Foundation, the resource fair will offer opportunities for residents to connect with organizations and information 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 17 at Black Café & Bookstore, 3498 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
ARTS & CULTURE
IMPROVABLE CAUSE The next Improvable Cause show is 10:30 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. Tickets available at pensacolalittletheatre.com.
THE TRAIL TO OREGON! Interactive musical at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. Show is 7:30 p.m. Fridays May 2 and 9, Saturdays May 3 and 10 and Thursday, May 8; 2:30 p.m. Sundays May 4 and 11. Details and tickets at pensacolalittletheatre.com.
2025 SPRING PLANTAPALOOZA Enjoy
plants and homemade items from more than 50 vendors at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 3. Details at facebook.com/garysbrew.
OPEN FACED TERRARIUM WORKSHOP
Workshop with Jade Tree Succulents is 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Cost is $45. Details and tickets available on Eventbrite.
POP MURAL TROLLEY TOUR Join the UWF Historic Trust Wednesday, May 7 for the POP Mural Trolley Tour, a curated experience showcasing the POP murals of downtown Pensacola. This exclusive tour will offer participants a look at the artistry and cultural significance behind each mural, paired with thoughtfully selected food and beverages. Tours begin at 5 p.m. Tickets are $75 for members and $100 for non-members. Get your tickets at historicpensacola.org.
GULF COAST DIPLOMACY ANNUAL MEET-
ING & PARTY
Gulf Coast Diplomacy will host its Annual Meeting and Party celebrating the organization's significant contributions to international diplomacy in Northwest Florida with live music and hors d'oeuvres 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, May 8 at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Tickets are $25 for non-members and free for members. Details at zeffy.com/en-us/ticketing/gulf-coast-diplomacysannual-meeting-and-party.
GALVEZ CELEBRATION PUBLIC
LUNCHEON Following the Galvez Battle of Pensacola celebration 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, May 9 at Pensacola Yacht Club, 1897 Cypress St. Tickets are $30 per person. Purchase yours at historicpensacola.org.
PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S CHORUS: SHOWTIME Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 11 at Pensacola Saenger, 118 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets at pensacolasaenger.com.
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM GALA Part of Pensacola Navy Days events. Enjoy cocktails at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7:30 p.m., and dancing 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the Naval Aviation Museum, 1750 Radford Blvd. Dress: black tie or service mess dress. Tickets and details: pensacolanavydays.com/page/gala.
BATTLE OF PENSACOLA COMMEMORATION AND GALVEZ DAY CELEBRATION
A celebration of the Battle of Pensacola will take place 8:30 a.m. Friday, May 9 starting with the color guard muster and ending with a wreath laying ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park. Details available at pensacolasar.org.
MOVIES IN THE SAND: MOANA 2 Movies in the Sand starts at sunset Friday, May 9 featuring "Moana 2." All movies are free to the public on a giant movie screen in front of the Gulfside Pavilion stage, weather permitting. For weather updates, go to facebook.com/visitpensacolabeach.
HISTORIC PENSACOLA OPEN HOUSE The annual open house of Historic Pensacola museums, including the Pensacola Museum of Art, is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 10. Enjoy tours, history demonstration, hands-on activities and more. For details and a list of events, visit historicpensacola.org.
NIGHT ON THE TRACKS The latest incarnation of Night on the Tracks is set for Saturday, May 10, beginning at 2 p.m. and continuing into the night. Local venues invite folks to come out, mingle and move throughout the neighborhood for art, music, a carnival, puppetry, and food and drinks. The event kicks off at 2 p.m. at Pensacola School of Liberal Arts (SoLA), 501 E Gadsden St, with an art market and carnival suitable for the whole family that runs until 6 p.m. Details at 309punkproject.org.
PENSACOLA BEACH ART & WINE FESTI-
VAL The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce's annual Art & Wine Festival will take place Saturday, May 10, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Visit pensacolabeachchamber.com/art-wine-festival for details.
PENSACOLA MESS HALL HOSTS ILLUMI
-
NATE: SPACE EXHIBIT MESS Hall's latest exhibit, "Illuminate: Space" was created in partnership with art teachers at St. Paul Catholic School, Global Learning Academy and Jacqueline Harris Preparatory Academy and showcases student art focused on the solar system and beyond. Additional art from students participating in the MESS Hall's Science Explorers After School pro -
gram is also featured. The exhibit will be available through May 17. Pensacola MESS Hall is located at 418 E. Wright St. A special free viewing will happen as part of Night on the Tracks on Saturday, May 10 between 6-8 p.m. Details available at pensacolamesshall.org.
BLUE MORNING GALLERY: SPRING
FLING
The latest Blue Morning Gallery exhibit is Spring Fling with featured artists Jan Hoffman, Mark Schmitt and Kathy Stewart. The gallery is located at 21 S. Palafox St. Visit bluemorninggallery.com for details.
JIMMY RHEA: TO BE DEFINED Pensacola Museum of Art exhibit featuring mixed-media work by Jimmy Rhea that juxtaposes historical icons with contemporary culture is on view through June 1 at PMA, 407 S. Jefferson St. For museum hours and details, visit pensacolamuseum.org.
IN YOUR FACE: PORTRAITS BY GILA RAYBERG Mosaic portraiture by Gila Rayberg. On view through Sept. 7 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Details at pensacolamuseum.org.
THE MEMBERS SHOW PMA Members show is on view through June 1 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Details 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 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 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
happenings
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: CINCO DE MAYO & CERVEZAS Event is 5 and 7 p.m. Thursday, May 1 at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. Cost is $30 per person. Seating is limited. Call (850) 287-0200 or email taylor@ goodgrits.com to reserve your spot.
YAPPY HOUR Visit Pensacola Bay Brewery, 225 Zaragoza St., for Yappy Hour with Wolfgang and enjoy $5 beers with your doggies. Event is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 1. Details at wolfgangparkandbrews.com.
HANDS-ON CHARCUTERIE CLASS Class is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 1 at Bodacious, 407D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $65 and available at eventbrite.com.
PENSACOLA BEACH CRAWFISH FESTI -
VAL The Pensacola Beach Crawfish Festival returns to Bamboo Willie's and the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, 400 Quietwater Beach Road, on May 2 through May 4. Details at pensacolabeachcrawfishfestival.com.
KENTUCKY BOURBON DERBY Visit O'Riley's, 321 S. Palafox St., for a celebration of derby and bourbon all day Saturday, May 3.
COASTAL COUNTY CINCO DE DERBY
Coastal County will celebrate the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo 1-7 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at 3041 E. Olive Road. Watch the live derby broadcast and live music, margarita-inspired brews and tex-mex food from Lonestar Kitchens 2 Go.
COFFEE IN THE GARDEN Visit Bodacious Brew Thru, 407-D S. Palafox St. Saturday, May 3 for children activities including storytime at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Beverages are buy one get a free kid's smoothie. 10% of proceeds benefit Studer Community Institute.
HOT DOG COOK OFF Hot dog cook off competition and tasting benefiting Pitsacola Playground Animal Rescue 12-3 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at Wisteria, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Details at pitsacolaplayground.my.canva.site.
BURGER BATTLE BY THE BAY The Rotary Club of Pensacola Suburban West will hold its tenth annual Burger Battle by the Bay 11 a.m.1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at the Vince Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park, 351 Cedar St. Tickets are $20 at the gate.
CULTURES COOK: MEXICAN FIESTA Cooking class is 2-5 p.m. Sunday May 4 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Avenue, Ste. C. Cost: $60 per student (Ages 6+ welcome). Sign up at: pensacolacooks.com/classes-and-events.
DOGS, DRAFTS & DAISES Create one-of-akind art with your furfriend 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, May 4 at Garden & Grain, 50 E. Garden St. Tickets are $35 and available at wolfgangparkandbrews.com.
ARTISAN PASTA CLASS Class with Chef Ed Lordman 6-9 p.m. Monday, May 5 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Cost is $80. Details and tickets available at Eventbrite.
PENSACOLA GREEN DRINKS Join Healthy Gulf for social time with environmentally-minded folks and a discussion with Dr. Frank Gilliam, professor at University of West Florida's Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. Event is 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St.
SUMMER KICK OFF FOAM PARTY
O'Riley's Uptown Tavern, located at 3728 Creighton Rd., will host its Summer Kickoff Foam Party 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 7.The party will have a cover of $5 for all attendees. The event will feature Wrighteous Eats Food Truck, a live DJ and drink specials.
SAGE IN BLOOM: COOKING WITH THE SEASONS Cooking class is 6-8 p.m. Friday May 9 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Avenue, Unit C. Cost: $60 per student (adults only). Sign up at: pensacolacooks.com/ classes-and-events.
MOTHER'S DAY: CAKE DECORATING
WORKSHOP Workshop with Emmalee's Eats 1-3 p.m. Sunday, May 11 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Cost is $90. Details and tickets on Eventbrite.
LUNCH SERVICE NOW AT IRON RESTAU-
RANT Restaurant Iron, located at 22 N. Palafox, will now offer a refined midday experience Monday through Friday starting at 11 a.m. 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 (4pm-11pm).
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.
Stock Market Losses?
Adoption • Paternity • Dependency/DCF Hearings Prenuptial Agreements • Postnuptial Agreements Divorce • Child Custody and Timesharing Child Support • Child Support Modifications Alimony • Collaborative Divorce • Divorce Mediation • Pre-Suit Family Law Mediation
Hire a lawyer who is a former Merril Lynch stock broker. 127 Palafox Place Suite 100 (850)466-3115 autumnbeckblackledge.com
a&e happenings
FREE POOL Free pool all day at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. SIN Night begins at 1 a.m. Visit mugsjugsbar.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.
KARAOKE Karaoke is 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. SIN Night is from 1 a.m. to close Mondays at Sir Richard's Public House, Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
75-CENT OYSTERS AT ATLAS Enjoy 75-cent oysters 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. For more information, visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com.
MUSIC BINGO Test your music knowledge 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Wisteria, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Take part in half-price bottles of wine and $5 canned cocktails. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
POKER NIGHT AND BINGO AT O'RILEY'S Visit O'Riley's Irish Pub for poker at 6:30 p.m. and bar bingo 8-10 p.m. Tacos 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 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.
WHISKEY WEDNESDAY KARAOKE Karaoke is 9 p.m.-1 a.m., at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.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 at 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. Tequila Night is from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. 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.
KARAOKE Karaoke is from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. and SIN Night is 1 a.m. to close Thursdays at Sir Rich-
ard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.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 8 p.m.-12 a.m. and SIN Night from 1 a.m. to close Fridays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
FEISTY FRIDAY NIGHTS DJ at 9 p.m. Fridays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
FISH FRY FRIDAY Half off fish n' chips from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and live DJ at 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.
for more listings visit inweekly.net
SHOUT OUT
Celebrating the Wins That Lift Us All
BOOKSTORE & CAFÉ
Storytime
Every Saturday at 11:00 a.m.
Join us every Saturday morning for a magical storytime experience the whole family will love. Free. Cozy up in our bookstore as we bring children’s books to life with enthusiastic readings, fun voices, and colorful adventures that will spark joy and creativity in young minds.
Whether you’re a weekly regular or a first-time visitor, Bodacious Books Storytime is a wonderful way to start your weekend, connect with other families, and nurture a love of reading in your little ones.
Bodacious Bookstore & Café
110 E Inténdencia St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 446-6966
Web: bodaciousbookstore.com
Sweet Saturdays
Our Next Sweet Saturday is May 10
Sweet Saturdays continue through the summer! Kids will have a blast learning how to make cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and chocolate-covered strawberries—just in time to treat mom! $45 – Fun, delicious, and hands-on!
Bubba’s Sweet Spot
405 S. Palafox St., Pensacola, Fl 32502
Phone: (850) 332-6696
Web: bubbasweetspot.com
free will astrology
WEEK OF MAY 1
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): To create microgardens, you plant vegetables and herbs in small containers placed on your porch, balcony, window sills and kitchen counter. Lettuce, peas, spinach and basil might be among your small bounties. I encourage you to use this practice as a main metaphor in the coming weeks. In other words, gravitate away from huge, expansive visions and instead work creatively within existing constraints. For now, at least, "less is more" should be your operative motto. Meditate on how apparent limitations might lead to inviting innovations. Seek out abundance in unlikely places.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Taurus author Nellie Bly (1864–1922) was a daring trailblazer. It was almost impossible for a woman to be a journalist in the 19th century, but she did it anyway. One of her sensational groundbreaking stories came when she did an undercover assignment in New York's Women's Lunatic Asylum. Her reporting on the neglect and brutality there prompted major reforms. I nominate Bly as your role model for the foreseeable future. You are, I believe, poised for epic, even heroic adventures, in service to a greater good. (PS: Bly also made a solo trip around the world and wrote 15 books.)
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): Gemini painter Henri Rousseau (1844–1910) never saw a jungle in person. In fact, he never left his native country of France. But he painted some of modern art's most vivid jungle scenes. How did that happen? Well, he visited zoos and botanical gardens, perused images of tropical forests in books and heard stories from soldiers who had visited jungles abroad. But mostly, he had a flourishing imagination that he treated with reverent respect. I urge you to follow his lead, Gemini. Through the joyful, extravagant power of your imagination, get the inspiration and education you need. The next three weeks will be prime time to do so.
CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): No, rubythroated hummingbirds don't hitch rides on airplanes or the backs of geese. They make their epic migrations completely under their own power. To get to their wintering grounds, many fly alone from the southern United States to the Yucatan Peninsula, crossing the 500-mile ex-
By Rob Brezsny
panse of the Gulf of Mexico in 20 hours. I don't recommend you attempt heroic feats like theirs in the coming weeks, Cancerian. More than usual, you need and deserve to call on support and help. Don't be shy about getting the exact boosts you require. It's time to harvest the favors you are owed and to be specific in articulating your wishes.
LEO (JULY 23-Aug. 22): The golden pheasant is dazzling. Among the bright colors that appear in its plumage are gold, red, orange, yellow, blue, black, green, cinnamon and chestnut. In accordance with astrological omens, I name this charismatic bird to be your spirit creature for the coming weeks. Feel free to embrace your inner golden pheasant and express it vividly wherever you go. This is a perfect time to boldly showcase your beauty and magnificence, even as you fully display your talents and assets. I brazenly predict that your enthusiastic expression of self-love will be a good influence on almost everyone you encounter.
More than usual, you need and deserve to call on support and help.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): Virgo poet and visual artist Dorothea Tanning (1910–2012) had a few mottoes that endlessly nurtured her abundant creative output. Here's one: "Keep your eye on your inner world and keep away from ads, idiots and movie stars." As excellent as that advice is, it's a challenge to follow it all the time. If we want to function effectively, we can't always be focused on our inner worlds. However, I do believe you are now in a phase when you're wise to heed her counsel more than usual. Your soul's depths have a lot to teach you. Your deep intuition is full of useful revelations. Don't get distracted from them by listening too much to ads, idiots and celebrities.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is essential for the functioning of your body and every other animal's. It carries instructions about how to build proteins, and your cells are full of it. We humans can't edit this magic sub -
stance, but octopuses can. They do it on the fly, enabling them to adapt quickly to changing environmental conditions. Even though you Libras can't match their amazing power with RNA, you do have a substantial capacity to rewrite your plans and adjust your mindset. And this talent of yours will be especially available to you in the coming weeks. Your flexibility and adaptability will not only help you navigate surprises but may also open up exciting new opportunities.
SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): Is there a sanctuary you can retreat to? A relaxing oasis where you can slip away from the world's colorful madness? I would love for you to be bold enough to seek the precise healing you need. You have every right to escape the rotting status quo and give yourself full permission to hide from pressure, demands and expectations. Is there music that brings you deep consolation? Are there books and teachers that activate your profound soul wisdom? Keep that good stuff nearby. It's time for focused relief and regeneration.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): The chemical element known as arsenic is notoriously toxic for humans, but has long been useful in small amounts. Ancient Chinese metallurgists discovered that blending it with copper and tin made the finest, strongest bronze. In modern times, arsenic fortifies the lead in car batteries. People in the 19th century sometimes ingested tiny doses as a stimulant. In this spirit, Sagittarius, I invite you to transform potentially challenging elements in your life into sources of strength. Can you find ways to incorporate iffy factors instead of eliminating them? I assure you that you have the power to recognize value in things others may neglect or reject.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): Renowned Capricorn author Henry Miller (1891–1980) had to wait far too long before getting readers in his home country, the United States. American censors regarded his explosive texts as too racy and sexy. They forbade the publication of his books until he was 69 years old! His spirit was forever resolute and uncrushable, though. In accordance with astrological omens, Capricorn, I recommend you adopt his counsel on the subject of wonders and marvels. Miller wrote, "The miracle is that the honey is always there, right
under your nose, only you were too busy searching elsewhere to realize it." Here's another gem from Miller: He advised us "to make the miracle more and more miraculous, to swear allegiance to nothing, but live only miraculously, think only miraculously, die miraculously."
Are there books and teachers that activate your profound soul wisdom?
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): For now, everything depends on your foundation, your roots and your support system. If I were you, I would devote myself to nurturing them. Please note that you're not in any jeopardy. I don't foresee strains or tremors. But your graduation to your next set of interesting challenges will require you to be snugly stable, secure and steady. This is one time when being thoroughly ensconced in your comfort zone is a beautiful asset, not a detriment to be transcended.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): The coming weeks are a favorable time for you to build symbolic bridges. I hope you will link resources that aren't yet linked. I hope you will work to connect people whose merger would help you, and I hope you will begin planning to move from where you are now to the next chapter of your life. I advise you to not model your metaphorical bridges after modern steel suspension bridges, though. Instead, be inspired by the flexible, natural and intimate bridges made by the ancient Incas. Woven from ichu grass via community efforts, they were strong enough to span rivers and canyons in the Andes mountains.
HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: Take yourself on a date to a mysterious situation that fascinates you. {in}
freewillastrology.com newsletter.freewillastrology.com freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com © 2025 Rob Brezsny
THE TECH REVOLUTION Tien Kung Ultra took home the gold medal on April 19 in the Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon in Beijing, CNN reported. Ultra and more than 20 other robots ran alongside (but in a separate lane from) their 12,000 human competitors, supported by navigators, operators and engineers. It crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 40 minutes and 42 seconds, after three battery changes and one fall. The winner of the men's race finished in 1 hour and 2 minutes. Almost every robot in the race suffered falls or overheating issues, and one spun in two circles after leaving the starting line, hit a wall and dragged its human operators down with it. Another's head repeatedly fell off.
BEST-LAID PLANS In case you hadn't heard, the 250th anniversary of the start of the Revolutionary War was last week. In commemoration of that event, the city of Lexington, Massachusetts, held a Patriots' Day Awards Ceremony, during which an arch was unveiled, Boston.com reported on April 18. But as the arch was moved to the front of the stage at the event, the top part of it fell backward and broke into pieces. Mona Roy, the vice chair of the Lex250 Commission, remarked, "Don't worry, completely fixable" as the audience gasped and laughed. One Reddit user commented, "The symbolism is unbelievable."
POLICE REPORT On April 18, the Bozeman, Montana, police department held a press conference to share that 13 of its officers, including two sergeants, had been involved in a bingo game with different kinds of arrests on the card, KBZK-TV reported. The game took place over 12 days in mid-January, with custom bingo cards with squares reading "Over .30 BAC DUI," "3+ Vehicle Accident," "Butt-Ass Naked" and "Extinguish Fire Before BFD." Police Chief Jim Veltkamp said the game was shut down and an investigation was done to make sure there were no wrongful arrests or officers acting outside their normal duties. He said the officers involved "were warned about how inappropriate this is." He added that participating supervisors were disciplined.
SAW THAT COMING On Good Friday in Weston, West Virginia, an unnamed 84-yearold man went to the hospital after falling about 10 feet from a cross at a crucifixion reenactment at the Masonic Cemetery, WDTV reported. The event was sponsored by the Vandalia Community Christian Church. The reenactor was life-flighted to an emergency facility, but family members said he was doing better, and doctors no longer considered his injuries life-threatening.
NEWS YOU CAN USE On April 19, NOAA Ocean Exploration sent a remote-control camera inside the wreckage of the USS Yorktown, which was sunk in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 miles from Honolulu, in 1942 during
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
World War II, the Miami Herald reported. Along with all the expected finds, the researchers discovered something odd: a "1940-'41 Ford Super Deluxe 'Woody' in black," with flared fenders, what's left of a rag top and chrome trim. Ocean Exploration officials called the car "an exciting find. Perhaps the car belonged to someone important on the ship or to the fleet: the captain or admiral." The wreckage, about 3 miles deep, was first discovered in 1998.
RUDE A 20-year-old Indian man identified only as Rahul disappeared nine days before his planned wedding, The Economic Times reported, taking with him cash and jewelry and, most insultingly, the bride-to-be's mother. On April 9, Rahul said he was going shopping for wedding clothes, but he later called his father to say, "I'm leaving. Don't try to look for me." Around the same time, his future mother-in-law also went missing without leaving a message. Police say the new couple may be in Uttarakhand, where he works, and are investigating there. Invitations for the wedding, scheduled for April 16, had already been sent. Bride-to-be Shivani said her fiance and her mother "used to talk on the phone a lot over the past three to four months. All we want is that the money and jewelry should be returned to us."
CAN'T POSSIBLY BE TRUE CNN took a deep dive into the latest fashion trend on April 10, chronicling $150-plus "nap dresses" one could use for ... napping. CNN calls the style "one of the latest iterations of the house dress," which has been a "staple in women's fashion for decades and potentially even centuries." CNN Underscored Director of Social Stephanie Griffin notes that a dress from Hill House Home, which sells for $150, is "comfy enough to nap in, but the ruffled shoulders, elasticized smocking and tiered midi skirt are elevated and sophisticated enough to wear to fancy drinks." Uh, that's just a DRESS. Also, who would spend $150 for something to wear while snoring on the couch? Griffin would: "One word: obsessed."
UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT Katelyne Dye, 33, a postal worker in Melbourne, Florida, was arrested on April 12 after she allegedly stopped to attend a house party along her route, ClickOrlando reported. Police were alerted to a postal truck driving the wrong way on South Harbor City Boulevard. When they caught up with the driver, the truck was swerving "in and out of its lane"; Dye "appeared confused and disoriented." She told police she had consumed two shots of vodka at the house party and had been falling asleep while driving, which caused her to swerve. Dye was charged with DUI. {in}
Andrews McMeel
