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Independent News | October 14, 2021 | Volume 22 | Number 41

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winners & losers

outtakes

buzz 6

It’s cool to be kind.

rest of the best 9

music

publisher Rick Outzen

graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

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

free will astrology 46

Independent News is published by Inweekly Media, Inc., P.O. Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591. (850)438-8115. All materials published in Independent News are copyrighted. © 2018 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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October 14, 2021

THANK YOU

winners & losers

INWEEKLY READERS

for your votes for Baptist Health Care locations, team members and programs. We are proud to serve this amazing community!

Courtesy of Baptist Health Care

winners MORETTE FAMILY A healing garden located in the town square of the new Baptist Health Care campus currently under construction at I-110 and Brent Lane will be named the Morette Healing Garden in honor of a $250,000 gift to Baptist Health Care Foundation from the Morette family and their construction firm, Morette Company. The new campus' town square will serve as the centerpiece of the campus. The Morette Healing Garden will offer a serene space for quiet reflection.

Celebrating Our Teams! Baptist Health Care Baptist Hospital Gulf Breeze Hospital Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Dr. Paul Freitas Dr. Erika Schneider Baptist Urgent Care

ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION Its Walk to End Alzheimer's reconvened in person on Sunday, Oct. 3, following last year's virtual event, and more than 450 Pensacola area residents took part and raised more than $60,027. Remember Me Today was the top fundraising team at this year's event, raising more than $14,395. Team captain Chasity Brooks walked in memory of her uncle Eddie and her mother-in-law Jean Brooks. Fellow team member and top individual fundraising participant Mary Yearty-Meek raised $3,641. PERDIDO KEY COASTAL DEMONSTRATION GARDEN The Pensacola and

Perdido Bays Estuary Program's Community Grant program awarded $10, 450 to the demonstration garden, which will be located at the Perdido Key Community Center, which houses the Perdido Key Visitor Center and the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce. Chamber staff and partners are working to turn an underutilized green space on-site into a small park with amenities for those traveling along the future Perdido Key Multi-Use Path.

PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S CHORUS

eB A P T I S T H E A L T H C A R E . O R G

The nonprofit has partnered with the Dixon School of Arts and Sciences to bring a new School of Rock-style musical class to the school's middle school scholars. This oneof-a-kind program designed by leaders of the Pensacola Children's Chorus aims to blend diverse musical genres, traditional music instruction and social-emotional learning in a rock band-style performance group.

Alex Jones / Vic Hinterlang / Shutterstock.com

losers ALEX JONES Texas Judge Maya Guerra Gamble dealt the radio host and his media company, Infowars, a significant blow when she issued a default judgment against him in cases brought by parents of children killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting after he did not comply with court orders to hand over documents and evidence in a pair of 2018 lawsuits brought against him by families of two children killed in the school shooting in Newtown, Conn., which killed 26 people, 20 of whom were young children. Jones called the shooting a "false flag" operation and accused the parents of being crisis actors who participated in a government-funded hoax to fake the children's deaths. Jones' followers harassed the parents for years because of his lies. A jury is expected to decide the amount Jones owes the families in the two lawsuits. RICHARD CORCORAN The Florida De-

partment of Education will not receive $2.3 billion in American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief money because Commissioner Corcoran and staff failed to meet the filing deadline, not once but thrice. The state received the first two-thirds of its allocation in March but didn't submit a spending plan for funds by June. FDOE also missed July and August deadlines. Gov. Ron DeSantis' office told reporters the school districts still haven't spent all of the first round of aid. Florida is the only state in the country not to apply for the federal dollars for school districts to help students impacted by the pandemic.

SKANSKA USA Federal Judge Hope T. Cannon found that the bridge contractor should pay $92, 409.96 to the law firms representing area businesses and residents impacted by the damages its barges caused with they struck the Pensacola Bay bridge during Hurricane Sally, shutting the span down for eight months. Skanska failed to secure the cellphone data for five of the 13 key staff members identified as being critical to Hurricane Sally preparations and recovery. The Skanska trial is set for Monday, Oct. 12, in Pensacola federal court. inweekly.net

outtakes By Rick Outzen

A CHAMPION LOST We lost an environmental champion recently when LaFanette Soles-Woods passed away. She spent her last years fighting for her neighborhoods. I met her in June 2014 when environmental advocate Gloria Horning pulled together a dozen residents of the Wedgewood community to meet at the Marie K. Young Community Center. During an Escambia County Commission meeting earlier that month, I had seen the military veteran and survivor of breast cancer and triple-bypass surgery walk to the podium to address the commissioners. She was compelled to speak out for the sake of her Wedgewood neighbors, many wearing orange Tshirts in the audience, to shut down and clean up the dumps near their homes. For years, county staff and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection had ignored their complaints. After listening to Woods, I drove to the Wedgewood neighborhood and saw a smoldering mountain of waste behind a wire fence that separated homes from the Rolling Hills C&D Recycling Facility. Smoke made the air outside the community center nearly intolerable. Few residents walked the streets, sat on their porches or grilled on their backyard patios. I was stunned to see such living conditions just a couple miles west of Highway 29 below Interstate 10. Woods' family had owned property in the area since 1952. Her father bought 20 acres while he served in the military so that Woods' grandfather and other relatives could live on the land for generations. She moved back in 1995. Rolling Hills and other landfills that the county allowed to operate in the area with little oversight killed that dream. On the hot, humid night in 2014, Woods and her neighbors shared their long list of health issues. She told me, "We don't need these pits here. It's killing us." Rev. James Howard shared he was in

good health in 1999 when he retired from BellSouth but has since had kidney, heart and respiratory problems. Charles Sapp complained of his eyes burning after being outdoors, and his wife and daughter were battling headaches. He said, "Four people have died on this block alone." Linda Gulley served on the community board for the Marie Young Community Center and wouldn't let her grandchildren play in the park behind the center. "As I come back and forth to the center, I tend to get headaches. The odor is so bad that when I come into the building, I put something over my face," she said. "When you stand out in the parking lot talking to someone, I get a real bad headache. I've had a cough. My doctor has sent me to specialists, but I continue to cough. I was not having those problems before coming over here." Fortunately, the county commissioners stepped up. Commissioner Lumon May took former State Rep. Mike Hill and DEP officials on a tour of Wedgewood. The Rolling Hills landfill had its permit revoked. In 2016, the DEP began the lengthy process of capping the landfill and suing the owner for failing to close the landfill properly. Woods and her neighbors attended every hearing to make sure the facility was remediated. As of 2021, the Rolling Hills landfill is capped. The process cost $1.7 million. Woods didn't stop there. She continued to speak when operators filed to run landfills in the neighborhood. This past August, she made it known to the county commission and the media her concerns about the Eager Beaver Recycling facility on nearby Longleaf Drive. She was tired of reading obituaries of her neighbors and hoped the county's environmental studies would lead to real policy changes regarding borrow pits and landfills. Unfortunately, LaFanette Soles-Woods didn't see those changes in her lifetime. Her voice will be missed. {in} rick@inweekly.net

She was compelled to speak out for the sake of her Wedgewood neighbors, many wearing orange T-shirts in the audience, to shut down and clean up the dumps near their homes.

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Larry Perino / Photo Courtesy of EW Bullock

LOCAL AWARDED SILVER STAR Ret.

Army Col. Larry Perino of Gulf Breeze was presented on Friday, Oct. 1, with the Silver Star Medal recognizing courageous acts performed during the Battle of Mogadishu, commonly referred to as "Black Hawk Down," in 1993. Earlier this year, Perino was informed that the U.S. Army had reviewed the actions of more than 150 special operators involved in the battle and determined that upgraded awards for 60 of the soldiers involved were deserved. Perino was one of 18 Army Rangers at the ceremony at Fort Benning, Ga. "I was honored, really, to be standing up there, to be part of the group that was recognized," Perino told Inweekly. "And once again, in front of the unit, the new generation Rangers were in the auditorium in attendance. What made the day more special for me is

there were a lot of veterans who were there on the streets with me that actually showed up to celebrate the awards with us. And to me, I think that award was every bit as much theirs as it was mine. I was just happy to be a part of it." At the time of the battle, Perino was a platoon leader in B Company, 3-75th Ranger Regiment and a member of Task Force Ranger. "The original mission that started the event was Mohamed Farrah Aidid, a Somali warlord, that we were set to capture and bring to a responsible UN authority for attacks on UN forces trying to provide aid for the Somali people," he said. "This was a raid to capture several of his top lieutenants who were meeting in a structure inside Mogadishu. Perino continued, "The plan was basically an assault force would go into the building first. As soon as those helicopters would leave, helicopters carrying Rangers would come in, and we would fast-rope onto different corners, surrounding the building, and serve as a blocking force to do two things—to keep people from actually coming in and then also to keep people from squirting out of the building as the assault force was going in." The Rangers captured their targets and were ready to link up with vehicles and load and fly away when Super 61, a Black Hawk helicopter providing aerial support overhead, was shot down from a volley of fire from RPGs. Then the mission changed and became a rescue. What started as a planned one-hour raid mission turned into a fierce 15-hour battle. Perino attended the premiere of the

movie "Black Hawk Down" and liked how the movie captured the intensity of the battle. "If you read the book, the book had something like 24 different characters, and it would be tough to capture all that in a movie that's only 90 minutes for people to follow that," said Perino. "So what they did is they combined a lot of characters in the movie that were real characters, like Sergeant Eversmann. There is a real Sgt. Matt Eversmann, and I know him very well; you couldn't have found a better character to play. You couldn't. But his experience in the movie is really a combination of about three people, maybe four."

SALLY'S SLOW MEND Since last fall, when Hurricane Sally blew through town and caused $20 million to City of Pensacola property, the city administration has been working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to secure funding for the repairs. Mayor Grover Robinson last week provided a progress report. "I think you'll see it back open by the time we're all ready to get back out and see good weather," Mayor Robinson said. "The good news is FEMA pays for 75%, and the state pays for another 12.5%, but that does leave us with 12.5%, which on $20 million is just over $2 million." Projects that FEMA has already approved include repairs at Commendencia Slip, with an expected start date of December; Community Maritime Park, with a scheduled start date of November; Osceola Golf Course and Clubhouse, beginning in December; and the Bayview Park piers, where work is in progress. Projects awaiting FEMA approval include repairs at Plaza De Luna, with approval expected in November; Sanders Beach boardwalk; and Wayside Park, for which the city is currently coordinating funding. Mayor Robinson asked for patience when it comes to these repairs and apologized for city parks having been left wanting for so long.

"We obviously realize they're not what you'd want them to be, but we're asking you to please work with us and be patient while we get those things operated," Robinson said.

NEW DISTRICT LINES The Escambia County School Board and the Board of County Commissioners held a workshop on Tuesday, Oct. 5, to discuss how to redraw the boundaries for their five districts. All attended, except for Commissioner Doug Underhill. Commissioner Jeff Bergosh told Inweekly the two bodies reached an agreement on the new boundaries, but he expects Underhill to dispute some the changes recommended for his district. "District 5 and District 4 got it kicked off," said Bergosh. "There was one precinct—I believe it's number 88 in District 5, that's south of Nine Mile Road—and that was an immediate give back to District 4. That kind of solved the issue for District 5. They shook hands, and I think they were good to go." He continued, "Then District 4 was a little heavy, and so they had to give a little bit to District 3. District 3 was still light in terms of the minority-majority population, which they have to maintain under the court order, so a large portion of District 2, all of Mayfair, had to go over to Commissioner Lumon May's district, and he had to actually give up a little bit of downtown to improve his percentage of minority-majority." The two districts left to reconfigure were Bergosh's District 1 and Underhill's District 2. "Because Doug wasn't there, I remember that he had said he was fine with Mayfair going to Lumon. He felt like that was good. That was something that happened. He also felt like Myrtle Grove needed to be one community again, which I agreed with," recapped Bergosh. "In his absence, we just went with my plan and kind of put it out there. We essentially give back to Doug and District 2, all of precinct 99, which gives all of Myrtle Grove back to District 2, which was a good thing to do. We're

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given most of Precinct 75, which is a west-end precinct, and all of Precinct 61 from D1 to D2." He explained an effort was made to reunite communities in the southwest part of the county that "were sliced in half by some gerrymandering that happened in 2001 with W.D. Childers, and putting those back in District 1." Bergosh added, "The move included a sizeable portion of Precinct 105, which is most of Perdido Key. When that's all said and done, all the five districts balanced. I anticipate bringing that proposal to our Nov. 2nd meeting." On the absent commissioner, he said, "I anticipate there will be significant disagreement by Commissioner Underhill, but he didn't show up for the meeting yesterday. I don't know that he'll have a lot of support for anything he wants to do, which included taking some of my precincts, which would've knocked sitting elected officials out of their seats."

MARCH ON D.C. On Saturday, Oct. 2,

thousands of women marched at rallies in Washington, D.C., and cities across the country, protesting Texas's recent ban on most abortions and supporting other issues that impact women and families. Pensacola native Ryan Wiggins marched at the nation's capital, calling it a "pretty incredible experience." "I really think that everyone in the entire country should participate in some peaceful protest in the nation's capital at some point in your life; it should be on everyone's bucket list. It was just remarkable," she told Inweekly. "There was a sea of women, and not all of them were marching for the same thing," Wiggins said. "I was there marching because of government overreach. I don't believe it's the government's place to make this call for the citizens, but there were women and men and everything you can imagine, all walks of life walking on Saturday. And it was really something to behold." Wiggins is a Republican who advocates for small government, believing "people have the right to live their lives, and their personal lives are nobody else's business, but their own. She marched against Texas SB 8, a law banning abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. Florida lawmakers have filed a similar bill. "Regardless of whether you are pro-life or pro-choice, you should be concerned with the idea that there would be a law in the books that would encourage people to rat out their fellow citizens to the government," said Wiggins. "That is something very scary. That is something we saw in Nazi Germany. I think that is such a very dangerous precedent in this country." She described the Washington protestors as a "sea of people." Wiggins added, "They had this incredible drum line that was made of all women, and they started a chain down Pennsylvania toward the Capitol. And it was just the energy there was so great. And it was so funny because it was a lot of moms." She said the crowd was upbeat, and the march felt like a community coming together to stand up. "This was a chance for us to say, 'No, we're not going to stand for this. We do vote.'" Wiggins carried a sign during the March that stated, "If all women voted, the March wouldn't be necessary." October 14, 2021

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TUESDAY, OCT 26

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She said, "Women show up. Women showed up in numbers last time, and we are encouraging women to show up again."

DRUNK SCOOTERING Since July 19, the

city of Pensacola has allowed the rental of Bird scooters in the greater downtown area. As is the case in numerous locales, the scooters serve as temporary transportation that are left for the next rider to ride. At his Monday, Oct. 4, presser, Mayor Grover Robinson recounted that one of the representatives of the various contending for the business mentioned that the scooters would shut off at 10 p.m. "I was kind of like, 'Why would you do that? People still need to go home,'" Robinson said, before answering his own

MONDAY, OCT 25

OPEN 4:00 PM

KIDS’ DAY All kids 11 and under admitted FREE from 11 - 2 pm.

First responders with valid ID admitted for $6 all day

YOUTH & FFA STEER SHOW 7:00 PM LIVESTOCK ARENA

FOOD PANTRIES FOOD DRIVE

Bring in three (3) cans of food for $2 off adult admission

WEDNESDAY, OCT 27

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FRIDAY, OCT 29

OPEN 4:00 PM

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$15 UNLIMITED RIDE WRISTBAND DAY

7:00 PM • LIVESTOCK ARENA Public is invited to attend and purchase a steer.

RESURRECTION

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YOUTH & FFA LIVESTOCK AUCTION

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7:30 PM • FREE SHOW PEPSI OPEN-AIR STAGE

CLOSE 12:00 AM

KIDS’ DAY

TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES

SENIOR APPRECIATION DAY

SATURDAY, OCT 30

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JORDAN CHASE

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MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY

ELVIE SHANE

OPEN 11:00 AM

Beginning at 8 pm, $28 Midnight Madness ticket buys unlimited rides & FREE admission.

7:30 PM • FREE SHOW PEPSI OPEN-AIR STAGE

Bring a buddy and two get in for the price of one from 11 - 2 pm (Highest admission price applies.)

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“PAY ONE PRICE” MIDNIGHT MADNESS

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THURSDAY, OCT 21 CAT COUNTRY 98.7 BIG LIP SYNC BATTLE

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FRIDAY, OCT 22

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“PAY ONE PRICE” MIDNIGHT MADNESS Beginning at 8 pm, $28 Midnight Madness ticket buys unlimited rides & FREE admission.

SUNDAY, OCT 31

CLOSE 10:00 PM

LAST BLAST FAMILY DAY Special $6 admission & Special $23 unlimited ride wristband for everyone ages 4 and up all day long.

No exhibit buildings will be open.

question—"If you're on a scooter past 10 o'clock, you're probably impaired." Apparently, this has been the case locally. The mayor said that there had been several incidents attributed to people using the scooters impaired. "We've seen stuff happen," Robinson said. "I mean, city facilities have cameras. We've seen accidents occur in the middle of the night. Sometimes they're more accidents, and sometimes they're more people doing crazy things they probably shouldn't have been doing on a scooter that they might not have thought about doing if it'd been before 10 o'clock." The mayor said that the city would likely incorporate a shut-off time into the scooter contract to better avoid such instances.

CITY TOWN HALL The public is invited to attend Mayor Grover Robinson's Town Hall Tuesday, Oct. 19, at 5:30 p.m. at the Woodland Heights Resource Center, 111 Berkley Drive. Mayor Robinson will provide opening remarks and then turn it over to the citizens to ask questions and provide comments regarding the city of Pensacola. "After pausing my town hall meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I am looking forward to once again hearing from citizens face to face," Mayor Robinson said. One or more City Council members may also be present. All members of the community are encouraged to attend and provide their input to Mayor Robinson and the city of Pensacola. {in} 7

inweekly.net

Last week, we printed 80 pages—which is about four times the size of a normal Inweekly issue—but even that wasn't enough to cover all the Best of the Coast bases. So we're back, just like we do every year, for round two—Rest of the Best. In this issue, we're celebrating the runners up and giving them their own moment in the spotlight. We hand count the votes, which means we know all too well how competitive some of the categories are (looking at you, Best Brunch). That's why we think each and every business on this list deserves a shout-out. We're also re-running the complete 2021 winners list—in case you missed something or just need to read it again. It's a lot to take in, after all. {in}

October 14, 2021

C omm u ni ty, Media & C u l t u re BEST NONPROFIT Winner: Phoenix Rising Rescue A Place of Hope Small Dog Rescue Friends of the Escambia County Animal Shelter Gulf Coast Kid's House

BEST POLITICIAN Winner: Michelle Salzman Lumon May Jared Moore Grover Robinson

BEST CHARITY EVENT Winner: Soundside Splendor (Children's Home Society of Florida) Brunch & Bubbles (Gulf Coast Kid's House) Mr. Tutu (Ballet Pensacola) Winter Wonder Ride (onbikes Pensacola)

BEST ADVOCACY/ACTIVIST GROUP Winner: Strive Autism Pensacola Pensacola Dream Defenders Sunday's Child

BEST PLACE TO WORK Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union Baptist Health Care Pensacola State College University of West Florida

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS Winner: Pensacola Beach A Blue Wahoos Game Downtown National Naval Aviation Museum

BEST PARADE Winner: Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade Grand Fiesta Parade MLK Day Parade Pensacola Christmas Parade

BEST PET-FRIENDLY PARK Winner: Bayview Park Pensacola Beach Dog Park Roger Scott Dog Park Shoreline Bark Park

BEST REGULAR/REOCCURRING EVENT Winner: Gallery Night Bands on the Beach Brown Bag Opera Palafox Market

BEST PLAYGROUND Winner: Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park Benny Russell Park Legion Field Perdido Kids Park

BEST FREE THING TO DO Winner: National Naval Aviation Museum Bands on the Beach Bands on the Blackwater Yoga at Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

BEST PALAFOX MARKET VENDOR Winner: Annie's Naked Cookies The Crafted Makerie Jade Tree Succulents Mrs. Jones Cold Brew BEST MAKERS/CRAFT MARKET Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company Pensacola Arts Market Pensacola Community Market Wild Lemon

BEST DAY TRIP Winner: Destin 30A/Seaside Fairhope OWA

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD Winner: East Hill Cordova Park East Pensacola Heights North Hill

BEST COMMUNITY LEADER Winner: Quint Studer Devin Cole Jamil Davis Christian Wagley

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

BEST PENSACOLA LANDMARK Winner: Graffiti Bridge Fort Pickens Pensacola Beach Water Tower Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

BEST REASON TO ATTEND A BLUE WAHOOS GAME Winner: Josh Gay Fireworks Food The view

BEST RISING LEADER Winner: Teniadé Broughton Alex Gartner D.C. Reeves Walker Wilson

BEST FOOD EVENT Winner: Pensacola Habitat Food Truck Festival Pensacola EggFest Pensacola Greek Festival Pensacola Seafood Festival

BEST PUBLIC PARK Winner: Bayview Park Seville Square Veterans Memorial Park Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park

BEST REASON TO ATTEND AN ICE FLYERS GAME Winner: Josh Gay Fights Post-game ice skating Theme nights

BEST BOSS Winner: Lindsey Cannon (Children's Home Society of Florida) John Clark (Council on Aging of West Florida) Stacey Kostevicki (Gulf Coast Kid's House) Bridget Middleton (Fiesta Pensacola)

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Honor Roll

Thank you, Pensacola! 2021

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Runner Up Best Place to Work Runner Up Best Summer Camp

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C omm u ni ty, Media & C u l t u re BEST YOUTH SPORTS/REC PROGRAM Winner: Southern Youth Sports Association Pensacola Youth Soccer Tiger Point Sports Association YMCA Northwest Florida BEST DANCE STUDIO Winner: Ballet Pensacola A Time to Dance LaBelle Performing Arts Mixon Magic Performing Arts BEST AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITY Winner: Pensacola Children's Chorus Ballet Pensacola Chain Reaction First City Art Center BEST SUMMER CAMP Winner: Mixon Magic Performing Arts First City Art Center Pensacola Children's Chorus UWF's Explore Summer Camps BEST PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY Winner: Pensacola MESS Hall Pensacola Children's Museum Sam's Fun City Sky Zone Trampoline Park BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY Winner: Bubba Watson Roy Jones Jr. Brent Lane Sue Straughn BEST TV STATION Winner: WEAR Blab TV WKRG WSRE BEST RADIO STATION Winner: Cat Country 98.7 107.3 The Beat NewsRadio 92.3/1620 WUWF 88.1 BEST RADIO PERSONALITY Winner: Brent Lane (Cat Country 98.7) Candy Cullerton (Formerly of Cat Country 98.7) Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620) Big Moose (Cat Country 98.7) BEST MORNING RADIO SHOW Winner: The Cat Pack Morning Show (Cat Country 98.7) Good Morning Pensacola (WCOA 1370) NPR Morning Edition (WUWF 88.1) Pensacola Morning News with Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620) BEST PODCAST Winner: It's All Gone Terribly Wrong Behind the Grind Show Stay on the Line The Wellness Fanatic BEST WEBSITE/BLOG Winner: Visit Pensacola (visitpensacola.com) Cat Country 98.7 (catcountry987.com) Pensacola Mom Collective (pensacola.momcollective.com) WUWF 88.1 (wuwf.org) October 14, 2021

BEST SCANDAL Winner: Matt Gaetz John Thomas insurance fraud Skanska Tate High School homecoming hack BEST PERSON OR BUSINESS TO FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM Winner: Pensacola Vibes (@pensacolavibes) Emily Ley (@emilyley) Sarah Coleman Photography (@sarahcolemanphoto) Visit Pensacola (@visitpensacola) BEST BUSINESS TO "LIKE" ON FACEBOOK Winner: Pensacola Mom Collective All Things Emerald Coast Cat Country 98.7 Friends of the Escambia County Animal Shelter

THANK YOU FOR VOTING!

RUNNER UP BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT & RUNNER UP BEST RESIDENTIAL

REAL ESTATE AGENCY

850.232.4001 pensacolahomelistings.com conna@connaodonovanteam.com

BEST WAY TO GET CULTURED Winner: Pensacola Opera Ballet Pensacola Pensacola Little Theatre Pensacola Symphony Orchestra BEST ART GALLERY/MUSEUM Winner: Pensacola Museum of Art Artel Gallery Blue Morning Gallery Pensacola Museum of History BEST ARTIST Winner: Eniko Ujj Daniela de Castro Sucre Poppy Garcia Sarah Soule Webb BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Winner: Sarah Coleman Natalie Allgyer A.J. Galecki Sean Mullins BEST MUSIC VENUE Winner: Vinyl Music Hall Hunter Amphitheater at the Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park Saenger Theatre Seville Quarter BEST BAND Winner: Ben Loftin & the Family Faux/Fox Goldmine The Juice Is Okay BEST CONCERT/CONCERT SERIES Winner: Bands on the Beach Pensacola Children's Chorus's "Christmas on the Coast" Pensacola Opera's Opera After Dark Pensacola Symphony Orchestra's Masterworks BEST THEATRE PRODUCTION Winner: Rumors (Pensacola Little Theatre) Carmen (Pensacola Opera) Improbable Cause Mystery Theatre Snow White (Ballet Pensacola) BEST COMEDIAN Winner: Olivia Searcy Emily Dillon Andrew Ferrara LuRay

824 E. Belmont St. | 850-542-7548 | www.toadhallantiques.com

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We encourage all concert-goers to take appropriate COVID-19 preventative measures, socially distance themselves and follow the guidelines of our local health authorities.

For updates, call SRIA at (850) 932-2257, go to VisitPensacolaBeach.com or tune to Cat Country 98.7. Please, no glass containers or pets.

BEST GYM Winner: Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA Burn Boot Camp Coastal Fitness Training Fitness Impact Training - FIT

BEST PLACE TO WALK/RUN Winner: East Hill Downtown Navarre Beach Pensacola Beach

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER Winner: Jake Schwartz (Burn Boot Camp) Derek Pratten (Burn Boot Camp) Candace Rorrer (Essentially Fit) Jaid Slaughter (Coastal Fitness Training)

BEST PLACE TO RIDE A BIKE Winner: Ride Society Blackwater Heritage State Trail East Hill Fort Pickens

BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO Winner: Wild Lemon disko lemonade Pure Pilates Ride Society

BEST HOSPITAL Winner: Ascension Sacred Heart Baptist Hospital Gulf Breeze Hospital West Florida Hospital

BEST YOGA Winner: disko lemonade Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center URU Yoga & Beyond Wild Lemon

BEST GENERAL CARE PHYSICIAN Winner: Dr. Paul Freitas (Baptist Medical Group) Dr. Charles Blay (Woodlands Medical Specialists) Dr. Steven Lenga (Medical Center Clinic) Dr. Adam Tarnosky (Ascension Medical Group)

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR Winner: Donna Dickey (Yoga Abode) Briana Knight (disko lemonade) Jen Faith Morley (URU Yoga & Beyond) Rebecca Sathre (URU Yoga & Beyond) BEST PILATES Winner: Wild Lemon Club Pilates Pilates Core Training Pure Pilates BEST FITNESS CLASSES Winner: Ride Society Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA Regymen Fitness Wild Lemon BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR Winner: Amelia Murphy (Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA) Kiley Bolster Manning (Wild Lemon) Molly Rockwell (Ride Society) Brandi Rodriguez (Club Pilates) BEST BOOTCAMP Winner: Burn Boot Camp Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA Coastal Fitness Training Fitness Impact Training - FIT

THE

Great Gulfcoast

Arts Festival

Returns to Seville Square

Nov. 5, 6 & 7

BEST WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM Winner: Ideal Weight Loss Physicians Weight Loss Center ProHealth Medical Care Woodlands Weight Loss Center

BEST CHIROPRACTOR Winner: Dr. Johnathan Newlin (Newlin Chiropractic) Dr. Sheila Decker (Coastal Medical Integration) Dr. David Edge (Edge Family Chiropractic) Dr. Craig Henry (Henry Chiropractic) BEST DENTIST Winner: Dr. Ben White (White Smiles General Dentistry) Dr. Jennifer B. Georgiades (Emerald Coast Family Dentistry) Dr. Thuy Nguyen (East Hill Dental Care) Dr. Naomi Norton (Summit Dental) BEST ORTHODONTIST Winner: Dr. Greg Woodfin (Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics) Dr. Ben Fishbein (Fishbein Orthodontics) Dr. Ed Shehee, Jr. (Shehee & Callahan Family Orthodontics) Dr. Clay Sims (Sims Orthodontics) BEST PEDIATRICIAN Winner: Dr. Amy Foland (Pensacola Pediatrics) Dr. Brandy Boutin (Ascension Sacred Heart Pediatric Care Center at Gulf Breeze) Dr. Mary Lou O'Grady (Pediatric Associates, P.A.) Dr. Randall Reese (Pensacola Pediatrics)

BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Winner: Tamara Driskell, LMHC (Arya Therapy Services) Tiffany Cross, M.Ed, LMHC (Cross Family Counseling, PLLC) Scott Durrance, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services, LLC) Angelique Sanders, LMHC (Wellness Cooperative) BEST OB/GYN Winner: Dr. Brian Sontag (Ascension Medical Group) Dr. Jeanne Eckert (The Women's Group) Dr. Erika Schneider (Baptist Medical Group) Dr. Allessa Allison Smith (Advanced Women's Care) BEST OPTOMETRIST Winner: Dr. Lindsay Durtschi (Midtown Dental & Vision) Dr. Cheryl Barton (Woodbine Eye Care) Dr. Douglas Reynolds (Gulf Coast Vision Center) Dr. Gene Terrezza (Terrezza Optical) BEST DERMATOLOGIST Winner: Dr. Kevin Welch (Welch SkinCare Center) Dr. Jenna Beasley (Vital Dermatology) Dr. Danielle Farrior (Medical Center Clinic) Dr. Amy Pote Watson (Pensacola Dermatology) BEST PLASTIC SURGERY Winner: Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery LeBeau Clinic Restore Plastic Surgery Shaddix Plastic Surgery BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY Winner: Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Medical Center Clinic PT Solutions of Pensacola Select Physical Therapy BEST PHARMACY Winner: Everwell Specialty Pharmacy East Hill Pharmacy First City Drugs Gulf Breeze Apothecary & Pharmacy BEST WALK-IN CLINIC Winner: ProHealth Medical Care Ascension Sacred Heart Urgent Care Baptist Urgent Care Priority Care at Medical Center Clinic

BEST RUNNING CLUB Winner: Running Wild Pensacola Runners Association Rec Plex North Parkrun World of Beer BEST 5K Winner: McGuire's St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K Double Bridge Run Ronald McDonald House Firecracker 5K Run for the Reef

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October 14, 2021

Services BEST HAIR SALON Winner: Volume ONE 10th Avenue Hair Designs The Blue Magnolia Salon Salon San Carlos

BEST MASSAGE Winner: Escape Wellness Spa 12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group East Hill Massage and Aesthetics Fusion Spa Salon

BEST HAIR STYLIST Winner: Brittany Hightower (The Blue Magnolia Salon) Jennifer Brewer Martin (The Powder Room) Chloe Fury (Hair-Do Pensacola) Shannon Pope (Olli+Izzie Style House)

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST Winner: Stephanie Knight (Escape Wellness Spa) Twanda Barber (Stay The Spa) Bruce Common (12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group) Whitney Pike (Escape Wellness Spa)

BEST HAIR COLORIST Winner: Alex Horne (Hairy Alex Horne) Summer Cardwell (10th Avenue Hair Designs) Jaclyn Jenkins (Salon San Carlos) Gabrielle Montoya-Frias (Loxx by Natalie & Co.) BEST BARBER SHOP Winner: Pensacola House of Barbers Barberos East Hill Barbershop Wilfrid's Barber and Fine Goods BEST MEN'S HAIR STYLIST Winner: Noel Delarosa (Pensacola House of Barbers) Chuck Brown (East Hill Barbershop) Nick Fury (Wilfrid's Barber and Fine Goods) Colton Walden (Pensacola House of Barbers) BEST DAY SPA Winner: Escape Wellness Spa Penton House Salon & Day Spa Stay The Spa Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

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BEST ESTHETICIAN Winner: Zoe Rose Pittman (Zoe Rose Artistry) Megan Carnley (Escape Wellness Spa) Lauren Jernigan (The Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery) DeSheri McClure (DESHI) BEST SKIN CARE OVERALL Winner: The Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery DESHI Still Waters Day & Medical Spa Zoe Rose Artistry

BEST PEDICURE Winner: DESHI Bellagio Nails and Day Spa Nail Lounge Stay The Spa

BEST BANK Winner: Hancock Whitney Bank Bank of Pensacola Regions Bank ServisFirst Bank

BEST MANICURE Winner: Gilded Pensacola Élan The Beauty Bar Medina Belleza Vibar Nails

BEST CREDIT UNION Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union Central Credit Union of Florida Gulf Winds Credit Union Pen Air Federal Credit Union

BEST HAIR REMOVAL Winner: Dela Beauty Bar BareSkin East Hill Medical Group The Waxing Studio BEST FACIAL Winner: Still Waters Day & Medical Spa DESHI Escape Wellness Spa The Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR Winner: Andrew Martin (Atlas Financial Strategies) Jacey Cosentino (Morgan Stanley Wealth Management) Chris Kelly (The Kelly Group at Morgan Stanley) Frankie Pesce III (Edward Jones) BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM Winner: Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund Anglin Reichmann Armstrong

Brown Thornton Pacenta & Company Warren Averett BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY Winner: Levin Rinke Realty Conna O'Donovan Real Estate Kuhn Realty Voyage Real Estate BEST COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY Winner: NAI Pensacola Beck Partners Connell & Company Realty, Inc. Gunther Properties BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Winner: Simone Sands (Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty) Lavada Burroughs McIntyre (Century 21 AmeriSouth Realty) Christina Leavenworth (Levin Rinke Realty) Conna O'Donovan (Conna O'Donovan Real Estate) BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL/INN Winner: Solé Inn and Suites Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel Paradise Inn Surf & Sand Hotel BEST HOTEL–PENSACOLA BEACH Winner: Hilton Pensacola Beach Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach Margaritaville Beach Hotel Paradise Inn

inweekly.net

Thank you for voting Best Reception Venue 5eleven Palafox Best Local Celebrity Bubba Watson

Best Cup of Coffee Best Cooking Classes

Best Community Leader Quint Studer

Best Reasons to Attend a Blue Wahoos Game • The view • Fireworks

October 14, 2021

• Food • Josh Gay

KEITH PARDUE THANK YOU FOR VOTING:

JESSICA BOSLEY RUNNER UP

BEST BRIDAL MAKE-UP ARTIST INSTAGRAM.COM/BEAUT YBYBOSLEY

Private Chef/Owner

(850) 716-2605 elevatedentree@gmail.com

elevatedentree.com Elevated Entree

ON THE WATER AND

OFF THE CHARTS! Fresh off the dock seafood. Spectacular waterfront view. Live entertainment and our legendary Southern hospitality. Year after year, the Fish House is rated one of the top restaurants in Pensacola. Chart a course to our house and see why. FISHHOUSEPENSACOLA.COM

OPEN DAILY AT 11 A.M. · (850) 470-0003 · 600 S. BARRACKS ST.

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BEST HOTEL–PENSACOLA Winner: Holiday Inn Express Downtown Hilton Garden Inn Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel Solé Inn and Suites

BEST DOG GROOMER Winner: Navy Boulevard Animal Hospital The Dog Stop Everything's Irie Doggie Salon Vanity Fur

BEST TATTOO & PIERCING STUDIO Winner: Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio Hula Moon Portside Tattoo Salter Studios

BEST CAR WASH/DETAILER Winner: New Era Detail & Wash Eco Car Wash Kennedy Kustoms Ronny's Car Wash

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX Winner: Southtowne Apartments Avalon Apartment Homes Governors Gate Apartments West Woods Apartments

BEST DOGGIE DAY CARE/BOARDING Winner: Fetch Fido The Dog Stop Navy Boulevard Animal Hospital Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

BEST TATTOO ARTIST Winner: Erin O'Shea Salter (Salter Studios) Shauncey Fury (Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio) Ali Roudabush (The Western Rose) Aaron Walker (Portside Tattoo)

BEST OIL CHANGE Winner: Evans Automotive Service Center Blue Angel Tire & Automotive Gulf Breeze Automotive and Diesel Repair TurnKey Auto Repair - Gulf Breeze

BEST ARCHITECTURE FIRM Winner: Dalrymple | Sallis Architecture Brett Duch Architect Bullock Tice Associates SMP Architecture

BEST DOG TRAINING Winner: The Dog Stop Dog Worx Dog Training East Bay Dog Spot Off Leash K9 Training Emerald Coast

BEST LAW FIRM Winner: Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon Beggs & Lane Levin Papantonio Rafferty Ward & Barnes, P.A.

BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY Winner: Hanto + Clarke aDoor Properties Morette Company Old South Construction

BEST SPECIAL EVENT SPACE Winner: De Luna Winery and Court of De Luna Event Space 5eleven Palafox Bayfront Lodge and Cabin Palafox House

BEST AUTO SERVICE SHOP Winner: East Hill Automotive Center Evans Automotive Service Center Gulf Breeze Automotive and Diesel Repair Pine Forest Automotive Center

BEST ATTORNEY Winner: Chris Crawford (Crawford Law) Scott C. Barnes (Ward & Barnes, P.A.) Rachel Sheffield (Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon) Aaron Watson (The Watson Firm)

BEST LANDSCAPING Winner: Eye Candy Lawns JC Landscaping Professionals New Roots Lawn & Landscapes The Wallace Company

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY Winner: McMahon & Hadder Insurance Classic Insurance Group Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance Hiles-McLeod Insurance

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER Winner: Lindsey Lay Interiors In Detail Interiors Lacy Phillips Designs Studio Pica

BEST VET Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital Animal Hospital of Pensacola East Hill Animal Hospital Navy Boulevard Animal Hospital

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

BEST CATERER Winner: Classic City Catering Culinary Productions Inc. Nancy's Catering & Events VooDoo BBQ & Grill BEST FLORIST Winner: Fiore of Pensacola Celebrations The Florist Just Judy's Flowers, Local Art & Gifts Southern Gardens Florist and Gifts BEST PORTRAIT/FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY Winner: Lindsey Friar Photography Kelsei Frazier Photography MAC Photo Co. Wave Photo by Aislinn Kate

BEST WINDOW TINTING Winner: TintEd Premier Tinting Trent Ciccone Mobile Tint & Detail Universal Tint Pros BEST GREEN BUSINESS Winner: Salon San Carlos The Daily Squeeze Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe SunFarm Energy BEST NEW BUSINESS Winner: Olli+Izzie Style House Bluewater Heating & Air Conditioning Blushing Balloons Pensacola Picnic Co.

Winner Best Late Night Eats & Runner Up Best Bar–West Pensacola/Perdido Key, Best Bar Ambiance, Best Bar Food & Best Bar for Games

October 14, 2021

BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE Winner: Pensacola Beach Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor Marina Pensacola Picnic Co. BEST PLACE TO BUY AN ENGAGEMENT RING Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop Beré Jewelers Elebash's Jewelers Warrington Jewelers BEST CEREMONY VENUE Winner: Sowell Farms 5eleven Palafox Old Christ Church Pier Suite Events BEST RECEPTION VENUE Winner: 5eleven Palafox Palafox Wharf Waterfront Reception Venue Pier Suite Events Sowell Farms

Nixon's Randall's Formal Wear

Weddings

BEST BRIDAL MAKE-UP ARTIST Winner: Hayley Gurney of Gulf Coast Glam House Jenn Rogers Makeup Artistry Jessica Bosley Kendall Frazee of Skin by Kendall Lyn BEST WEDDING HAIR SALON Winner: The Powder Room The Blue Magnolia Salon Hair + Co Volume ONE BEST WEDDING HAIR STYLIST Winner: Alison Sardina (The Blue Magnolia Salon) Chelsey Domschke (Hair + Co) Jillian Jensen Holt Tonya Penrose (The Powder Room)

BEST OFFICIANT Winner: Bryan Adams Curtis Curry Tom Schwarz Dustin Scott

BEST WEDDING PLANNER/ COORDINATOR Winner: Mēgan K. Events Felicia By Design Southern Frills Weddings & Events Supposey

BEST BRIDAL STORE Winner: The Bridal Loft Bella Bridesmaids The Bridal Suite Simply Elegant Couture Bridal and Prom

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY Winner: Aislinn Kate Photography The Greens Photo Patsy Brown Photography Phocus Photography

BEST PLACE TO RENT A TUX Winner: Gent's Formal Wear Middleton's Prom & Pageant

BEST PHOTOBOOTH Winner: Phocus Photography Pensacola Photo Booth

The Posey Bus Tap the Coast BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY Winner: Lother Co. A.J. Galecki Aislinn Kate Photography Salt + Light Visuals BEST WEDDING BAND Winner: Nobius Ben Loftin & the Family Mr. Big and the Rhythm Sisters The Six Piece Suits BEST WEDDING DJ Winner: AnyDayDJ A DJ Connection Powell Entertainment Tom Schwarz BEST WEDDING CATERER Winner: Culinary Productions, Inc. Classic City Catering Nancy's Catering & Events The Whistling Pig BEST WEDDING CAKE Winner: Betty Weber Cakes Bluejay's Bakery Emerald Coast Custom Cakes Kate's Cakes BEST WEDDING FLORIST Winner: Supposey Chrissy Helvenston Floral Design Fete + Flora Fiore of Pensacola

BEST WEDDING RENTALS Winner: Supposey Hemstitch Vintage Rentals Luxe Event Rentals WeddingWalls BEST WEDDING PARTY TRANSPORTATION Winner: The Poseycab Beach Bum Trolley Carriages of Pensacola Pensacola Party Bus BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING GIFT Winner: Artesana Pizzaz Rusted Arrow Mercantile So Gourmet BEST PLACE TO BUY BRIDESMAID GIFTS Winner: SoBo Boutique Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique Pizzaz Rusted Arrow Mercantile BEST PLACE FOR A REHEARSAL DINNER Winner: The Grand Marlin The Fish House Jackson's Steakhouse Pier Suite Events BEST PLACE FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS TO STAY Winner: Margaritaville Beach Hotel Hilton Pensacola Beach Holiday Inn Express Downtown Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel

RU NNER U P

B EST NE W B US I NESS

balloons + event rentals

@blushingballoonspensacola

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Reta il BEST CAR DEALERSHIP Winner: Pete Moore Automotive Team Allen Turner Hyundai Pensacola Honda Sandy Sansing

BEST VINTAGE SHOP/SELLER Winner: Saturn Collection Vintage The Modern Eclectic Obsolete Heat Supertouch Vintage

BEST COMPUTER/TECH STORE Winner: Palafox Computers Pensacola PC Repair The Tech Handyman What The Tech

BEST BICYCLE SHOP Winner: Ride MORE Bicycles Bikes Plus Trek Bicycle Store Truly Spokin Bicycle Co.

BEST MAKER/ARTISAN Winner: Losobe Woodworks Joe Hobbs Glass Silver Street Blues Sovereign Stone Jewelry

BEST MUSIC GEAR/INSTRUMENTS Winner: Blues Angel Music ARC Music and Sound Leitz Music Schmidt's Music

BEST BOUTIQUE Winner: SoBo Boutique Bluetique Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique Scout

BEST GIFT SHOP Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile Artesana Celebrations The Florist Pizzaza

BEST RECORD STORE Winner: Revolver Records All About Antiques Music Box Pensacola Remember Wynn

BEST MEN'S APPAREL Winner: Don Alans Coastal Paddle Company Innerlight Surf & Skate Waterboyz

BEST PLACE TO BUY GREETING CARDS/STATIONERY Winner: Charlotte Mason Printing Company Artesana Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST LIQUOR STORE Winner: Richey's East ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Bambooze Fine Wine & Liquor Fusion Fine Wine & Spirits

BEST WOMEN'S APPAREL Winner: SoBo Boutique GRAY Boutique Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique Scout BEST CHILDREN'S APPAREL & GIFTS Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile Innerlight Surf & Skate Pizzaz Sparkle BEST ACCESSORIES Winner: Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique Bluetique SoBo Boutique Toad Hall Antiques & Gifts BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE Winner: Elite Repeats & Boutique Gigi's Consignment & Boutique Lullabies and Mudpies New 2 You Consign & More BEST THRIFT STORE Winner: Waterfront Thrift Store Goodwill Gulf Coast Loaves & Fishes Teen Challenge Super Thrift BEST ATHLETIC/OUTDOOR STORE Winner: Running Wild Coastal Paddle Company Intracoastal Outfitters Wild Lemon BEST FURNITURE STORE Winner: Alyssa's Etc. All About Antiques duh for garden and home Supertouch Vintage

BEST COMIC BOOK STORE Winner: Pensacola Pop Comics Hyperspace Toys Price Busters Games TBS Comics BEST NEW STORE Winner: The Busy Bee, Mercantile & General Store AJ's Market & Ice Cream at Southtowne Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe (Nine Mile Road) Saltwater Style BEST JEWELER Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop Beré Jewelers Elebash's Jewelers Susan Campbell Jewelry BEST SURF/SKATE SHOP Winner: Waterboyz Innerlight Surf & Skate Maverick Board Riding Company Ron Jon Surf Shop Pensacola Beach BEST NURSERY/PLANTS Winner: Pensacola Seed & Garden Bailey's Produce & Nursery Floral Tree Gardens Jade Tree Succulents

BEST WINE SHOP Winner: Aragon Wine Market ABC Fine Wine & Spirits The Bottle Shop Costello's Butcher Shop BEST WINE TASTINGS Winner: Aragon Wine Market Casks And Flights Wine Tasting Room Costello's Butcher Shop Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe BEST GROCERY STORE Winner: Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Apple Market The Busy Bee, Mercantile & General Store Four Winds International Food Market BEST INTERNATIONAL FOOD MARKET Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli Bien Dong Oriental Market Four Winds International Food Market Shoreline Foods International Market & Deli BEST GOURMET/SPECIALTY FOOD SHOP Winner: Four Winds International Food Market Bodacious Olive Costello's Butcher Shop Uptown Market Pensacola

BEST HARDWARE STORE Winner: Pensacola Hardware ACE Hardware of Gulf Breeze Hall's Hardware & Lumber Warrington Hardware and Marine, LLC

BEST HOME DÉCOR & ACCESSORIES Winner: Alyssa's duh for garden and home Rusted Arrow Mercantile Toad Hall Antiques & Gifts BEST ANTIQUES Winner: All About Antiques Alyssa's Blue Moon Antique Mall Oooodles Antiques

October 14, 2021

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B ars, Drink s & Ni gh t life

BEST BAR OVERALL Winner: The Cabaret Odd Colony Brewing Company Perfect Plain Brewing Co. Play

BEST COVER CHARGE WORTH PAYING Winner: The Cabaret The Roundup Seville Quarter Vinyl Music Hall

BEST SIGNATURE DRINK Winner: Scooba Steve (The Well) Luba's Favorite (George Bistro + Bar) The Old Hickory (Old Hickory Whiskey Bar) Painkiller (Kingfisher)

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Winner: Wisteria Tavern Kingfisher The Magnolia The Roundup

BEST NIGHT CLUB Winner: Seville Quarter Blend Lounge The Cabaret Capt'n Fun Beach Club

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

BEST SELECTION OF BEER ON TAP Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company Perfect Plain Brewing Co. Sammy Barker's World of Beer

BEST PET-FRIENDLY BAR Winner: Emerald Republic Brewing Co. The Magnolia Perfect Plain Brewing Co. Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST BAR–DOWNTOWN Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company The Kennedy Old Hickory Whiskey Bar Play

BEST DRINK MENU Winner: The Kennedy Kingfisher Old Hickory Whiskey Bar The Well

BEST BAR–CORDOVA AREA Winner: Coyotes Sports Bar O'Riley's Uptown Tavern The Spanish Trail Pub Wisteria Tavern

BEST SPECIALTY COCKTAILS Winner: Old Hickory Whiskey Bar George Bistro + Bar Union Public House The Well

BEST SELECTION OF BOTTLED/ CANNED BEER Winner: World of Beer The Magnolia Sammy Barker's The Tin Cow

BEST HOTEL BAR Winner: Sal de Mar (Hilton Pensacola Beach) Frank & Lola's Cafe (at Margaritaville Beach Hotel) Paradise Bar & Grill (at Paradise Inn) Pool & Tiki Bar (Surf & Sand Hotel)

BEST BAR–NORTH PENSACOLA/ NINE MILE ROAD Winner: Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse A Little Madness Brewing Company Sammy Barker's The Ticket Sports Bar

BEST DAIQUIRIS/FROZEN DRINKS Winner: Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar Perennial Patio Bar Sandshaker Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST BAR–WEST PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY Winner: Gary's Brewery & Biergarten The Elbow Room Hub Stacey's at The Point Kingfisher

BEST BUSHWACKER Winner: Sandshaker Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar Casino Beach Bar & Grille Paradise Bar & Grill

BEST BAR–PENSACOLA BEACH Winner: Sneaky Tiki Bar Flounder's Chowder House Paradise Bar & Grill Sandshaker

BEST BLOODY MARY Winner: Ruby Slipper Cafe Five Sisters Blues Café George Bistro + Bar Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

BEST BAR–MILTON/PACE Winner: Beardless Brewhaus Brew Angels Brew Pub Mugshots Grill & Bar Ollie's Neighborhood Grill

BEST MIMOSA Winner: George Bistro + Bar Polonza Bistro Ruby Slipper Cafe South Market

BEST NEW BAR Winner: The Well 86 Forks Bar + Table Laguna's Beach Bar + Grill Perennial Patio Bar

BEST MARTINI The Winner: The Kennedy George Bistro + Bar Global Grill McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST HAPPY HOUR Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox The Cabaret Perennial Patio Bar The Roundup

BEST SELECTION OF WINE Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox Casks And Flights Wine Tasting Room Restaurant IRON Troubadour Dining

BEST DRINK SPECIALS Winner: Play The Cabaret Garden & Grain The Roundup

BEST MARGARITA Winner: Garden & Grain Sneaky Tiki Bar Taco Agave Water Pig BBQ

October 14, 2021

BEST BREWERY Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company Coastal County Brewing Company Emerald Republic Brewing Co. Perfect Plain Brewing Co. BEST LOCAL BEER Winner: Bone Harvest (Odd Colony Brewing Company) Holy Spin IPA (Perfect Plain Brewing Co.) Ineffable Black Rye IPA (Emerald Republic Brewing Co.) Li'l Napoleon (Pensacola Bay Brewery)

BEST BAR WITH A VIEW Winner: Casino Beach Bar & Grille The Bridge Bar and Sunset Lounge The Dock Sneaky Tiki Bar BEST BAR AMBIANCE Winner: The Well The Elbow Room Kingfisher Odd Colony Brewing Company

BEST BARTENDER Winner: Jonathon Rainwater (The Cabaret) Derek Barney (Perfect Plain Brewing Co.) Nicole Greenwell (George Bistro + Bar) Nate Schweigert (Odd Colony Brewing Company)

BEST BAR FOR GAMES Winner: Play The 5 Barrel The Elbow Room Emerald Republic Brewing Co.

BEST DJ Winner: DJ Tiger dr0ne hdycvt Mr. Lao

BEST TRIVIA NIGHT Winner: Perfect Plain Brewing Co. The Cabaret Gary's Brewery & Biergarten World of Beer

BEST DRAG QUEEN Winner: Lolly Gag Judah Kendyll Michaels Terrah Card

BEST KARAOKE NIGHT Winner: Play The Cabaret Perennial Patio Bar Seville Quarter

BEST SPORTS BAR Winner: Badlands Roadside Bar Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant The Ticket Sports Bar World of Beer

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC Winner: Seville Quarter Paradise Bar & Grill Sandshaker Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST SPORTS TEAM CLUB HEADQUARTERS Winner: Play Badlands Roadside Bar O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown Seville Quarter

BEST BAR FOOD Winner: The Kennedy A Little Madness Brewing Company The Elbow Room Hub Stacey's

Restaurants & F ood Restaurants

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL Winner: George Bistro + Bar Nom Sushi Izakaya Restaurant IRON Union Public House BEST RESTAURANT– DOWNTOWN Winner: Restaurant IRON Carmen's Lunch Bar Global Grill SaBai on Jefferson BEST RESTAURANT– CORDOVA AREA Winner: George Bistro + Bar The Leisure Club O'Brien's Bistro & Bar Sake Cafe BEST RESTAURANT– EAST HILL Winner: Cactus Flower Cafe Bonelli's East Hill Pizza O'Zone Pizza Pub BEST RESTAURANT– NORTH PENSACOLA/ NINE MILE ROAD Winner: Sammy Barker's I Heart Bento Petrella's Italian Cafe VooDoo BBQ & Grill BEST RESTAURANT–WEST PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY Winner: Kingfisher Fisherman's Corner The Jellyfish Lillian's Pan Pizza BEST RESTAURANT–EAST PENSACOLA HEIGHTS Winner: The Magnolia Agapi Bistro + Garden Calvert's in the Heights New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria BEST RESTAURANT– GULF BREEZE Winner: Lao Ocean Shan Kishi Japanese Hibachi Taco Rock Taste of Thai BEST RESTAURANT– PENSACOLA BEACH Winner: The Grand Marlin Bonsai Casino Beach Bar & Grille Peg Leg Pete's BEST RESTAURANT– MILTON/PACE Winner: Blackwater Bistro Boomerang Pizza Kitchen Cactus Flower Cafe Cosse's Place BEST NEW RESTAURANT Winner: Agapi Bistro + Garden 86 Forks Bar + Table Fin & Fork MI SU Street Food BEST BAKERY Winner: Craft Bakery Bluejay's Bakery 424 2

J's Bakery and Cafe Milton Quality Bakery BEST BREAKFAST Winner: Another Broken Egg Cafe Aunt Katie's The Nest General Store Polonza Bistro BEST BRUNCH Winner: George Bistro + Bar Polonza Bistro Ruby Slipper Cafe South Market BEST LUNCH Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar George Bistro + Bar Kingfisher SaBai on Jefferson BEST FOOD TRUCK Winner: MI SU Street Food Brown Bagger Le Dough Nomadic Eats BEST GREEK CUISINE Winner: Agapi Bistro + Garden Founaris Bros. Greek Restaurant Greek's Catering and Events Hip Pocket Deli BEST MEXICAN CUISINE Winner: Cactus Flower Cafe Taco Rock Tacos Mexicanos Taqueria El Asador BEST ITALIAN CUISINE Winner: Bonelli's Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Franco's Italian Restaurant Petrella's Italian Cafe BEST CAJUN CUISINE Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill Broussard's Bayou Grill Cafe Nola Cub's Crawfish BEST CHINESE CUISINE Winner: Shang Hai II Chen's Kitchen China Wok House of Chong BEST JAPANESE CUISINE Winner: Nom Sushi Izakaya Bonsai Ichiban Sake Cafe BEST THAI CUISINE Winner: SaBai on Jefferson Siam Thai Taste of Thai Thai Rice BEST INDIAN CUISINE Winner: Taste of India Dinner India Restaurant & Grill Indian Grill Spice and Spirits BEST VIETNAMESE CUISINE Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli Pho Golden Palace Quickly Tu-Do

BEST VEGETARIAN/ VEGAN CUISINE Winner: End of the Line Cafe Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Kingfisher Le Dough BEST SUSHI Winner: Nom Sushi Izakaya Ichiban Khon's on Palafox Sake Cafe BEST GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar The Daily Squeeze End of the Line Cafe Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe BEST SEAFOOD Winner: The Fish House The Grand Marlin Kingfisher Peg Leg Pete's BEST STEAKHOUSE Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse Coach-N-Four Steakhouse The District: Seville Steak & Seafood McGuire's Irish Pub BEST BBQ Winner: Hot Spot Barbecue Brother's BBQ VooDoo BBQ & Grill Water Pig BBQ BEST SOUL FOOD Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café Arlene Williams BBQ The Dwarf (Legendary "Chicken Stand") Englewood's All In One BEST WINE MENU Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Restaurant IRON Troubadour Dining The Wine Bar on Palafox BEST ORIGINAL MENU Winner: Union Public House George Bistro + Bar Kingfisher Restaurant IRON BEST CHEF Winner: Alex McPhail (Restaurant IRON) Brad Jones (Nom Sushi Izakaya) George Lazi (George Bistro + Bar) Amy Potmesil (The Nest General Store) BEST UP-ANDCOMING CHEF Winner: Edward Lordman (Polonza Bistro) Carolyn Ore (George Bistro + Bar) Keith Pardue (Elevated Entree) Pam VanNess (SaBai on Jefferson) BEST WAIT STAFF Winner: George Bistro + Bar Carmen's Lunch Bar Polonza Bistro Restaurant IRON

BEST WAITER Winner: Nick Markovitz (Restaurant IRON) William Haynes (Carmen's Lunch Bar) Frank Perez (Union Public House) Ryan Seeley (George Bistro + Bar and The Grand Marlin)

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille Lucy's in the Square

BEST WAITRESS Winner: Cori Perez (Carmen's Lunch Bar) Jessica Martin (Cactus Flower Cafe) Crystal Stewart (George Bistro + Bar) Taylor Wolfe (Restaurant IRON)

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BIRTHDAY DINNER Winner: Restaurant IRON George Bistro + Bar Global Grill McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST COFFEE SHOP Winner: Constant Coffee & Tea Bodacious Brew Fosko Coffee Barre The Leisure Club

BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPORTS FANS Winner: Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant Calvert's in the Heights Sammy Barker's World of Beer

BEST BARISTA Winner: Angela Rasmussen (The Leisure Club) Benjamin Haupt (George Bistro + Bar) Ian Uranga (The Nest General Store) Sarah Wyrosdick (Craft Bakery) BEST OUTDOOR DINING Winner: Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille The Fish House Nick's Boathouse The Wine Bar on Palafox BEST PLACE TO SPLURGE Winner: Restaurant IRON Global Grill Troubadour Dining Union Public House BEST PLACE TO EAT HEALTHY Winner: End of the Line Cafe Carmen's Lunch Bar The Daily Squeeze Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe BEST PLACE TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH Winner: Bluejay's Bakery Craft Bakery Le Dough Wild Honey Frozen Yogurt BEST ROMANTIC DINING Winner: Restaurant IRON Angelena's Ristorante Italiano George Bistro + Bar Global Grill BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE Winner: Union Public House Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grill The Magnolia The Wine Bar on Palafox BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Winner: Cafe Single Fin Flounder's Chowder House Peg Leg Pete's Red Fish Blue Fish BEST PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Winner: The Magnolia Hub Stacey's

BEST TAKE OUT/TO GO Winner: Sky's Pizza Pie East Hill Pizza SaBai on Jefferson Taste of Jerusalem

BEST LATE NIGHT EATS Winner: The Elbow Room Graffiti Pizza McGuire's Irish Pub Restaurant IRON BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS Winner: Peg Leg Pete's The Fish House McGuire's Irish Pub Restaurant IRON BEST GONE-BUT-NOTFORGOTTEN RESTAURANT Winner: chizuko Hopjacks Pizza Kitchen & Taproom Skopelos at New World Sluggo's

F ood

BEST UNIQUELY PENSACOLA DISH Winner: Grits à Ya Ya (The Fish House) Graffiti Bridge Roll (Nom Sushi Izakaya) Miso-Marinated Halibut (George Bistro + Bar) Mullet Platter (Kingfisher) BEST CUP OF COFFEE Winner: Bodacious Brew Craft Bakery The Drowsy Poet Coffee Company Fosko Coffee Barre BEST COLD BREW/ ICED COFFEE Winner: Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Bodacious Brew Constant Coffee & Tea Pick Up Coffee Co. BEST LATTE Winner: The Leisure Club Constant Coffee & Tea Craft Bakery The Nest General Store BEST ICED TEA Winner: Nomadic Eats The Busy Bee, Mercantile & General Store Carmen's Lunch Bar Kingfisher inweekly.net

Thank you, Pensacola! You voted us runner up...

•Best Law Firm •Best Attorney: Scott C. Barnes Accident Attorneys

Paid by D.C. Reeves, Non-Partisan for Pensacola Mayor 47506 Reeves Print Ad_4.79 x 5.69.indd 1

October 14, 2021

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Restaurants & F ood BEST JUICES/SMOOTHIES Winner: The Daily Squeeze The Busy Bee, Mercantile & General Store Cafe Single Fin Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe BEST PIZZA Winner: Sky's Pizza Pie East Hill Pizza Graffiti Pizza O'Zone Pizza Pub BEST STEAK Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse The District: Seville Steak & Seafood McGuire's Irish Pub Restaurant IRON BEST BURRITO Winner: Taqueria El Asador Cactus Flower Cafe Le Dough Tacos Mexicanos BEST TACO Winner: Tacos Mexicanos MI SU Street Food Nomadic Eats Taqueria El Asador BEST SOUP Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar Kingfisher The Nest General Store New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria BEST DELI Winner: New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria Costello's Butcher Shop Four Winds International Food Market Shoreline Foods International Market & Deli BEST BREAD Winner: Craft Bakery Emerald Coast Bread Company Joe Patti's Seafood Kingfisher BEST SANDWICH Winner: Shrimpburger (Kingfisher) Duck Pastrami Reuben (The Nest General Store) Knuckle Sandwich (End of the Line Cafe) Spanish Lump Crab Melt – Open Face (Carmen's Lunch Bar) BEST CHICKEN SALAD Winner: Craft Bakery Carmen's Lunch Bar

The Magnolia New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

Restaurant IRON Sammy Barker's

BEST CHEESEBURGER Winner: MI SU Street Food Blue Dot Brown Bagger Tops Choice Hamburgers

BEST FRIED CHICKEN Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café The Dwarf (Legendary "Chicken Stand") Four Seasons Catering and Eatery Kingfisher

BEST HOT DOG Winner: Dog House Deli Blue Wahoos (stadium concessions) Sammy Barker's The Wacked Out Weiner

BEST WINGS Winner: Hub Stacey's East Hill Pizza Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST CHEESE PLATE Winner: Union Public House Carmen's Lunch Bar The Magnolia The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST OYSTERS Winner: Peg Leg Pete's Alice's The Grand Marlin The Olde East Hill Grill

BEST APPETIZERS Winner: Global Grill Carmen's Lunch Bar Nom Sushi Izakaya Union Public House

BEST SALADS Winner: Kingfisher Carmen's Lunch Bar George Bistro + Bar Union Public House

BEST MAC-N-CHEESE Winner: The Magnolia End of the Line Cafe Kingfisher Melt Pensacola

BEST PLACE TO BUY LOCAL PRODUCE Winner: The Farm Bailey's Produce & Nursery Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Palafox Market

BEST PASTRIES Winner: Craft Bakery Bluejay's Bakery Henny Penny's Patisserie Le Dough

BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN DISH Winner: Bacon Avocado Club (End of the Line Cafe) Biscuits and Gravy (Le Dough) Jackfruit Sandwich (Kingfisher) Nashville Hot Sandwich (The Busy Bee, Mercantile & General Store)

BEST BREAKFAST DISH/MENU ITEM Winner: Eggs Cochon (Ruby Slipper Cafe) Khachapuri (Craft Bakery) Red Beans & Green Chile Grits (Le Dough) Toad In The Hole (Polonza Bistro) BEST GRITS Winner: The Fish House Aunt Katie's Coffee Cup Restaurant Le Dough BEST DONUTS Winner: Le Dough Breeze Donuts and Kolaches Maynard's Donut Co. Milton Quality Bakery BEST FRENCH FRIES Winner: George Bistro + Bar Kingfisher

BEST DESSERTS Winner: Chrisoula's Cheesecake Shoppe Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Carmen's Lunch Bar End of the Line Cafe BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT Winner: Wild Honey Frozen Yogurt AJ's Market & Ice Cream at Southtowne Craft Bakery Dolce & Gelato

BEST COOKIES Winner: Kate's Cakes Annie's Naked Cookies Craft Bakery J's Bakery and Cafe BEST KING CAKE Winner: Le Dough Bluejay's Bakery Craft Bakery Kingfisher BEST ORIGINAL MENU ITEM Winner: Hot Chicken Rice Bowl (Nomadic Eats) Doughchos (Le Dough) Khachapuri (Craft Bakery) MI SU Melt (MI SU Street Food) BEST LUNCH SPECIALS Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar The Busy Bee, Mercantile & General Store Nomadic Eats VooDoo BBQ & Grill BEST WEEKLY SPECIAL Winner: Donuts in the Park (Le Dough) Smash Burger Friday (MI SU Street Food) Taco Monday (The Magnolia) Taco Tuesday (Taqueria El Asador) BEST COOKING CLASSES Winner: So Gourmet Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Jackson's Steakhouse Pensacola Cooks Kitchen BEST LOCAL FOOD MANUFACTURER Winner: The Hummus Lady The Black Garlic Market Emerald Coast Bread Company Popcorn King BEST LOCAL BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER Winner: Big Jerk Soda Co. Alla Prima Coffee Roaster De Luna Coffee Mrs. Jones Cold Brew

BEST CAKES/CUPCAKES Winner: Kate's Cakes Bluejay's Bakery Henny Penny's Patisserie Pretty Baked (at Cafe Single Fin)

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access, technology and services, making it more convenient to deliver better care to those we serve. Answers by: Candy McGuyre, Director of Corporate Marketing

BAPTIST HEALTH CARE

1000 W. Moreno St., ebaptisthealthcare.org What inspired you to get started? Our legacy began when the need for a more modern hospital in our region occurred after a local woman died tragically in childbirth. A dedicated group sought to bring greater access to care in Pensacola. Baptist Health Care was formed. Read our history and view our legacy video at ebaptisthealthcare.org/about. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The needs of the community are our priority, and they are always changing. We know they need us, and we want to be around for generations to come. Baptist will continue its bold vision to be the trusted partner for helping people and improving their quality of life. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our mission is helping people throughout life's journey. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Baptist is building a new main hospital and health campus at the intersection of Brent Lane and I-110 in Pensacola. This new facility will keep us close to our current location and offer enhanced

CAT COUNTRY 98.7, NEWSRADIO 92.3, 1330 ESPN PENSACOLA, 99.1, PENSACOLA'S PLAYLIST 94.5

7521 Plantation Road, catcountry987.com and newsradio923.com What inspired you to get started? A desire to do quality broadcasting that is a true benefit to our communities. Our goal was to create a business where everyone could work together each day to provide the best and most accurate information and entertainment. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our motivation remains the same as when we first flipped the switch to sign on Cat Country 98.7. Each day, we seek ways to build our communities while growing as broadcasters. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are hometown proud. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To get through hurricane season. COVID has been a challenge to us all. We are focusing on continuing to navigate through all the changes while looking forward to returning to 100% normal. Answers by: Kevin King, Operations Director ADX Communications

COUNCIL ON AGING OF WEST FLORIDA, INC.

875 Royce St., coawfla.org What inspired you to get started? Wanting to do something meaningful with my life and having a career that benefited others and not just a job. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The realization that there is still so much more to do. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We have made a difference in thousands of lives. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? As I conclude my career, I am excited about the wonderful prospects ahead for the Council on Aging under new leadership. Answers by: John B. Clark, President/CEO

THE CRAFTED MAKERIE

thecraftedmakerie.com What inspired you to get started? I've always considered myself to be creative, and I have dabbled in just about every hobby under the sun. It wasn't until I discovered polymer clay that something clicked. I fell in love with the endless possibilities of creativity with polymer clay and started making earrings. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My sweet customers motivate me to keep creating unique pieces. Their support means the world to me, and it is so humbling and motivating when they get excited about new designs I release.

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Quality, unique polymer clay jewelry that is fun and functional. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I am currently working on developing the wholesale side of my business and hope to have my jewelry in some local shops soon. Answers by: Kelsey, Owner/Creator

FIESTA PENSACOLA

125 S. Alcaniz St., Ste. 3, fiestapensacola.org What inspired you to get started? I began working at Fiesta as the office manager in January of 2015. As a newcomer to Pensacola, I was looking for a job through which I could meet people and make a difference in my new city. Fiesta has become my family over the past six years. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our amazing staff and dedicated volunteers motivate me every day to keep going. They are truly the heart of Fiesta, and I could accomplish nothing without them on my team. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Celebrate Pensacola's diverse heritage and build pride in our city. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Fiesta plans and executes the Crawfish Festival, Seafood Festival and the 10-day Fiesta Celebration, along with many other events each year. Inclusivity and

THANK YOU, FRIENDS!

Voted Runner Up

Best Pet-Friendly Restaurant

301 S. Adams St. 850-378-8475

facebook.com/lucysinthesquare 828 2

Best Greek Cuisine

Thank You Pensacola! Find the weekly schedule: facebook.com/greeksevents

(850) 529-6721 www.greekscateringevents.com

VOTED RUNNER UP

BEST NONPROFIT & BEST BUSINESS TO “LIKE” ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/ecasfriends inweekly.net

supporting likeminded organizations in our community is our ultimate goal. Answers by: Bridget Middleton, Executive Director

FRIENDS OF THE ESCAMBIA COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER

ecasfriends.com What inspired you to get started? In July of 2015, our founder, Laura Booth, recognized a need in our community and at the Escambia County Animal Shelter and took action. We've been working for the animals ever since. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The happy tails keep us motivated. Seeing an animal come out of their shell and respond to the love of their foster is inspiring. Knowing our animals have found their forever homes up north brings us so much joy. We celebrate every success and learn from our downfalls. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Dedicated volunteers working hard for the animals of Escambia County. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? With the support of our "friends" and through our various programs, we are looking forward to saving even more cats and dogs in 2022. Specifically, our Dawgs with a Drawl transport program will save more than 700 this year, and we hope to top 800 next year. Answers by: Kim Rainer, President

GREAT GULFCOAST ARTS FESTIVAL

ggaf.org What inspired you to get started? The arts festival was conceived in 1972 by a group of art patrons who wanted to expand gatherings to promote the arts in the downtown area. The "Great Gulfcoast" moniker was suggested by Pensacola News Journal Editor J. Earle Bowden to give the event a regional identity. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? GGAF is an allvolunteer nonprofit. The committee members who organize the festival's juried fine art show, heritage arts, music stage, dance stage, children's area, food vendors, sponsors and volunteers are motivated by their love of the arts and of the Pensacola community. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? An annual celebration of the arts in historic downtown Pensacola. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Next year will be a milestone. It will be GGAF's 50th anniversary, and we want to make it special. What we would like to see is fresh faces added to the committee to bring new ideas and enthusiasm for the arts and to keep the festival strong for future generations. Answers by: Joy Ward, GGAF Fine Art Show Committee Chair

GULF COAST KID'S HOUSE

3401 N. 12th Ave., gulfcoastkidshouse.org What inspired you to get started? This organization took a chance on me with October 14, 2021

having no experience in this field, and since then, I have a strong passion to serve our community's most vulnerable. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Pensacola is a great, growing city, and to continue that growth, we must invest into our children's future. Our children are our future. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The one-stop shop for child abuse in Escambia County. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Our next goal is to continue educating all residents of Escambia County until everyone knows how to properly recognize, report and reduce child abuse in our community. Answers by: Bradley Sanders, Public Relations and Events Manager

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE

400 S. Jefferson St., pensacolalittletheatre.com What inspired you to get started? PLT exists to tell stories, and the Cultural Center is a home full of stories that all look different, feel different, sound different and certainly act different. We all started because we had a story to tell; we keep going because there are plenty of stories left untold. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Walt Disney said, "It's kind of fun to do the impossible," and that's what we do each and every day— the impossible. Theater is a game of smoke and mirrors, telling stories as magically, intimately and accurately as we can, all on a nonprofit budget. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We're the community's theater, and we live for drama. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? While the artistic excellence of the theatre is thriving—and I say that humbly but accurately because the talent of these volunteers is absolutely insane—the culture inside of the Cultural Center could stand to grow a bit. That vision is on the horizon. Answers by: Sid Williams-Heath, Executive Director

PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART

407 S. Jefferson St., pensacolamuseum.org What inspired you to get started? In 1954, the local chapter of the American Association of University Women envisioned a venue to exhibit traveling art exhibitions and offer art classes for children and adults. Their vision became the Pensacola Art Association and then the Pensacola Museum of Art in 1982. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We aim to promote an open and inclusive space of discovery and dialogue rooted in art, ideas and culture in Northwest Florida. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? More than a museum. 29

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To continue to provide enriching education programs, thought-provoking exhibits and unifying programming opportunities for individuals throughout our community. Answers by: Claire Stewart

PENSACOLA SPORTS

101 W. Main St., pensacolasports.org What inspired you to get started? Our passion for the community inspired the birth of Pensacola Sports. We are dedicated to enhancing life, health and well-being by utilizing athletic participation within the Pensacola and Northwest Florida region. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The ability to consistently attract visitors to explore our great city is what motivates us to keep going. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Be moved. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Our continual goal is to connect Pensacola, our community and surrounding areas all together through the power of sports. Answers by: Domonique Whitehurst, Marketing Manager

SANTA ROSA ISLAND AUTHORITY

1 Via de Luna Drive, sria-fla.com What inspired you to get started? Bands on the Beach began in the early 2000s

and has only gotten bigger and better. We started this event to bring locals and tourists together to enjoy a free concert right on the Gulf of Mexico. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The positive energy and feedback from both locals and tourists make it possible for us to keep this event going year after year. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Promote eco-friendly tourism in a clean, safe community environment. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? SRIA is collaborating with Pensacola Positivity to bring an arts market to Bands on the Beach. We are so excited to possibly expand our much-loved event and be able to showcase our local artists. Answers by: AJ Powell, Human Resources/ Events Coordinator

UWF HISTORIC TRUST

330 S. Jefferson St., historicpensacola.org What inspired you to get started? In 1967, our focuses were to acquire and preserve local historic monuments, sites, buildings and artifacts for the benefit, education and enjoyment of the public and to research and disseminate written, audio and visual information to further the preservation of these sites and artifacts. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our mission remains the same, but today, we work tire-

WINNER: BEST ORIGINAL MENU BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE BEST CHEESE PLATE RUNNER UP: •BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL BEST PLACE TO SPLURGE BEST APPETIZERS BEST SALADS

BEST SPECIALTY COCKTAILS BEST WAITER—FRANK PEREZ

us going is our clients. Hearing the success stories and how they tell us that we've become an integral part of their ability to regain a quality life makes us feel invested in their success as much as they are invested in ours. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Thrive. Don't just survive. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? As a Marine Infantryman, Scott likes to take an aggressive approach to mental health treatment. Because of that, he will continue to expand access to novel and potentially life-changing treatments, such as Spravato and ketamine for treatment-resistant depression and other difficult to treat conditions. Answers by: Scott Durrance

BAPTIST HOSPITAL APEX PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES

308 S. Jefferson St., apexpsychiatricservices.com What inspired you to get started? Scott grew tired of working for systems where making change was next to impossible. Rather than changing the system, he decided to create his own clinic that allowed quality mental health care to be accessible to all, hence our affordable feefor-service model. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? What keeps

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lessly to share Northwest Florida history in interactive, thought-provoking and fun ways for our visitors. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? History, culture and art in the heart of downtown Pensacola. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Our city is rich in history, and we look forward to telling new stories of the incredible people who have lived here and who currently live here in new and exciting ways. Answers by: Claire Stewart

The historic Blount Building 3 West Garden Street, Ste. 404 Pensacola, FL 32502 inweekly.net

tions to come. Baptist will continue its bold vision to be the trusted partner for helping people and improving their quality of life. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our Mission is helping people throughout life's journey. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Baptist is building a new main hospital and health campus at the intersection of Brent Lane and I-110 in Pensacola. This new facility will keep us close to our current location and offer enhanced access, technology and services, making it more convenient to deliver better care to those we serve. Answers by: Candy McGuyre, Director of Corporate Marketing

BAPTIST URGENT CARE CENTERS AT AIRPORT AND NINE MILE

9400 University Parkway and 5100 N. 12th Ave., ebaptisthealthcare.org What inspired you to get started? It was the vision of Baptist Health Care to bring state-of-the-art Urgent Care facilities to the area, and, in doing so, we work tirelessly to ensure that the community where we live, work and play is cared for with the best quality health care there is. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The mission of Baptist Health Care is helping those throughout life's journey. With our caring providers and team members, we are inspired by each other in serving the community and providing the quality of care patients deserve. This motivates us to continue the mission of Baptist Health Care. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Continuing to care for the community we love. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Continuing to serve the local community. Answers by: Susan Uebelsteadt, Sr. Operations Manager

CLUB PILATES PENSACOLA

7175 N. Davis Highway, Ste. C, clubpilates.com/pensacola What inspired you to get started? How I felt after I joined the Club Pilates in Coral Gables. It was life altering for me. I have arthritis, two fake knees and a plate in my neck and fused at three levels. This was something I could do, and it made my whole body feel better. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our members and all that they have accomplished. Just ask any of them; they will tell you gladly. Some love us so much they now work with us. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Do Pilates, do life. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We own another studio in Denver. Maybe another concept in Pensacola, you never know. Answers by: Deb McDonald, Owner October 14, 2021

COASTAL FITNESS TRAINING

6057 Breeze Parkway, coastalfitnesstraining.com What inspired you to get started? We wanted to create an atmosphere that encouraged a healthy lifestyle physically, mentally and emotionally. A place where women were encouraged and motivated by others and left them with a sense of empowerment. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our ladies. Even when we have bad days, God never fails to send a smiling, encouraging face to tell us something amazing they did that day they thought they would never be able to do. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Owned by women, designed for women. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To just keep doing what we're doing. Whether we change one woman's life or 10 or 100, we just want to make a change. Answers by: Jaid Slaughter, Owner and Operator, and Paula Laurendine, Owner and Operator

ESSENTIALLY FIT WITH CANDACE RORRER

5043 Bayou Blvd., Ste. A, candacerorrer.com What inspired you to get started? I started my business because I wanted to help others learn how to eat healthy and exercise to get stronger. Exercise was also a part of my lifestyle, but the healthy eating aspect was something I had to learn. I wanted to pass this along to others. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Continuing to help others learn how to eat for their health goals, getting clients out of pain by fixing unbalanced body patterns and helping busy women do all of this from home with my online training program. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Fit and fierce women over 40. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I am creating an online ab challenge that helps ladies learn how to work their abdominal muscles properly and get results. Answers by: Candace Rorrer, Exercise Physiologist and Pelvic Floor Corrective Exercise Specialist

GULF BREEZE HOSPITAL

1110 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, ebaptisthealthcare.org/gulfbreezehospital What inspired you to get started? The hospital opened in 1985, offering, for the first time in Gulf Breeze, convenient access to state-of-the-art medical care. While Gulf Breeze Hospital has changed, doubling in size since it opened, the service and care has maintained the highest quality, always putting patients first. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Being the trusted partner for improving the quality of life for our community.

Thank You Pensacola!

Runner Up

Best Night Club Best Happy Hour Best Drink Specials Best Karaoke Night & Best Trivia Night

101 S. Jefferson St. 31

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Helping people throughout life's journey. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Our goal is to continue to provide high-quality health care to our community and help everyone navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Answers by: Beau Pollard, Administrator Executive Director

LADIES FIRST OBGYN

3417 N. 12th Ave., ebaptisthealthcare.org What inspired you to get started? My passion for medicine and women's health has been an intentional and prophetic work in progress since I was a small child. I set my eyes on healing at age 7 and never looked back. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My patients are the best. They give me more than I could have ever imagined. They are kind, gracious and patient and care about me as much as I care about them. It is such an honor to be trusted with such beautiful, delicate and sometimes very difficult times. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? My business is not a business. It's my heart. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? It has certainly been a challenging two years. My goal and prayer are to keep

living my calling and serving my patients as we pray for steadier footing during these times. I also have been reminded of how much my own children need me these days. Answers by: Erika Schneider, Doctor

PILATES CORE TRAINING

1308 Dunmire St., pilatescoretraining.com What inspired you to get started? As a massage therapist, I felt as though corrective movement was the missing component in my own life and in my clients' lives. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The passion to help others move without pain and keep moving through life. My goal is to make Pilates accessible to people of all ages, from beginners to advanced athletes, as well as those with limitations. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Align yourself with the structural experts at Pilates Core Training. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm moving into the phase of mentoring. I want to inspire, encourage and provide up-and-coming trainers with a deeper understanding of integrative movement within the mind and body connection. Answers by: Barbara H. Bruni, Owner

PURE PILATES

426 S. Palafox, purepilatespensacola.com What inspired you to get started? I started Pilates while in high school and dancing with Ballet Pensacola. Pilates was part of

Winner Best Drink Menu, Best Martini & Best Bar Food Runner Up Best Bar–Downtown

1 SOUTH PALAFOX www.thekennedy.bar 232 3

Mid-century Cocktails Meet 21st Century Libations & Bites

the curriculum at college for the dance department, and I went on to get certified after graduation. After teaching for 10 years, I decided to return home and open Pure Pilates in the area. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The amazing staff and clients are so motivating for us to continue our education and growth. We recently expanded the downtown Pensacola location and brought in new clothing lines and equipment. We love being a part of the local Pensacola community. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? "Physical fitness is the prerequisite to happiness," said Joseph Pilates. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To keep growing and collaborating with the community and to continue helping people work toward their fitness goals. Answers by: Susan Clark Waters, Owner

10TH AVENUE HAIR DESIGNS

1000 E. Cervantes St., 10thavenuehair.com What inspired you to get started? The opportunity to be a part of our community of small businesses in my hometown is special. It's another way of connecting and giving back in a place that I love.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My family and our salon family. In the salon, we all encourage each other to do our best and be our best for our co-workers and our guests. It's such a rewarding feeling to see our stylists happy and succeeding and to see their guests so pleased with their experience. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? "It's cool to be kind." What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Growing our salon associate program and in-house education. It has been an exciting project that was slightly delayed by the pandemic. We are again building lots of momentum in 2021 and looking to roll that into 2022 and beyond. Answers by: Cody and Namrita Brooke, Owners

ALI ROUDABUSH, TATTOOER AT THE WESTERN ROSE

18 S. DeVilliers St., @ali_roudabush_tattoo What inspired you to get started? After college, I was hired as a letterpress printer in New York. Immediately upon moving, the country went into a recession, and I was back home within two years. Tattooing was a way to earn money and also a creative outlet after I found myself back home in Pensacola. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I love my job. I never knew how fulfilling it could be until

Winner Best Specialty Cocktails Runner Up Best Bar–Downtown, Best Drink Menu & Best Signature Drink (The Old Hickory) Featuring Over 700 Whiskeys

123 SOUTH PALAFOX www.oldhickorywhiskeybar.com inweekly.net

I got started. Every day is a new design and a new client with a new personal reason for the tattoo. It doesn't really ever get old. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Tattoos, art, art, tattoos, let's blur the line. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I wish I had an interesting answer. I want to do this until my hands give out. I always want to make my own art, too. Answers by: Ali Roudabush, Tattooer and Co-owner

AVALON APARTMENT HOMES

8800 Pine Forest Road, avalonliving.net What inspired you to get started? I like to think the multi-family industry chose me. I quickly found that I enjoyed helping people make major life-changing decisions, such as finding a new home. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My team is what makes this community successful. The supply chain shortage has created many difficulties, but it taught us to be more resourceful and creative. We show up every day knowing we have each other to lean on when things get tough. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Smart move. Smart life. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Professionally, coaching my team so they can advance in their careers. Personally, continuing my role with Guardian ad Litem. I'd love to start a nonprofit to help children who are in the foster care system. Answers by: Dylan Spivey-Harris, Community Manager

BLUSHING BALLOONS

@blushingballoonspensacola What inspired you to get started? I have always loved decorating for parties and showers. I made my first balloon garland two years ago and loved the idea ever since. This past fall, I had some requests from friends and family, and they pushed me to start this business. It has evolved since. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The No. 1 thing that motivates me is the smile on my clients' faces after finishing a balloon install. The way that balloons can bring joy to people and their children through all seasons of their life makes me so happy to do what I do. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The trendiest balloon decor on the Gulf Coast. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? This year has brought so many projects already. My next goal is to offer more backdrops and arbors to use with balloon setups. I haven't offered any helium balloons yet, but I hope to bring jumbo 3-foot personalized balloons to the area soon. Answers by: Chelsi Canan, Owner October 14, 2021

CONNA O'DONOVAN REAL ESTATE

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. #38, Gulf Breeze, pensacolahomelistings.com What inspired you to get started? I've been in the people services business since I was a child helping my parents with their assisted living facilities, visiting residents, and later as an event planner. My love of helping people evolved into real estate in 1991, when I became a realtor and dove in, heart and soul. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My wonderful clients are my biggest motivators. It's a great feeling to be trusted and relied upon. I could have never done it without them. And success. The more success I achieve, the more I want to achieve success. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Conna O'Donovan RE: We're at the core of it all. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Continuing to grow our thriving business. Branding CORE. Continue training and team building. Community involvement, with focus on fundraising. Spending time with family and enjoying the new friendships I make in the business daily. Loving the beach life and living the dream. Answers by: Conna O'Donovan, Owner and Agent

FRAMING BY DESIGN

4718 N. W St., framingbydesignpensacola.com What inspired you to get started? I was an art major with a minor in business. When I was a few months from graduating, I saw an ad for a part-time framer needed. Applied. Got it. Graduated. Went full time. A year later, I moved with the company to Pensacola and 11 years later purchased the previous company and never looked back. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our clients keep us motivated. When they pick up their framed art and get excited or come in with new art and say how much they love what we did for them the last time. Our love for helping clients meet their personal goals with their framed art. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Custom picture framing at its finest. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? After these years, I am implementing a point-of-sale program to minimize our time writing orders so our clients don't have to wait (and lose all their lunch time to framing). Adding new product as it is available. On a personal level, do business owners have a personal level? Answers by: Gyna Sellers, CPF President and Owner

kelseifrazierphotography.com

Etched Glass & More

CANDACE

ROR R E R

Voted Runner Up Best Personal Trainer

GULF WINDS CREDIT UNION

220 E. Nine Mile Road, gogulfwinds.com What inspired you to get started? We were established 67 years ago to provide financial services to our members that worked at the Chemstrand plant. The

850.380.2179 | crorrer@gmail.com

C A NDACERORRER .COM

credit union has always been inspired to help our members live their best financial life. As a cooperative, we are owned by and operate for the benefit of all members. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We are motivated by our members. We work hard to constantly evolve so we can provide the products and services our members are looking for. We are also proud to be a community credit union that supports important cultural events and nonprofit organizations through the Gulf Winds Cares Foundation. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Service that soars above. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Gulf Winds wants to continue growing our membership and services. Our charter was recently expanded, so we can now provide service to people in more than 75 counties, stretching from Mobile, Ala., to Jacksonville. We will continue to introduce new technology while maintaining the personal touch that separates us from our competitors. Answers by: Frank Giammaria, Director of Community Relations

HAIR-DO PENSACOLA

1503 W. Garden St., hairdopensacola.com What inspired you to get started? I was drawn to hair styling as an alternative person in the deep South. I spent my teenage years

experimenting with the craft. I had never felt at home in a salon until I walked through the doors of the original Hair-do Salon. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Hair-do is a unique space. It was born out of our desire to feel confident in our strangeness. The confirmation our clients see and how they feel the love we've poured into carving out alternative spaces within the hair community is our daily motivation. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? There is no exquisite beauty without some strangeness. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Hair-do Pensacola strives to grow our connections with the community by prioritizing inclusivity, supporting community care and getting involved with more artistic endeavors both in and outside of the salon environment. Answers by: Chloe Fury

HULA MOON TATTOO

415 N. Tarragona, Ste. B, @hulamoontattoo What inspired you to get started? Do what we love and have fun, too. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? For more than 20 years, we have served Pensacola. Now that we are closer to downtown, we feel even more connected to the best city in Florida. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Weird. Wild. Wonderful.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To keep making good art. That's all any of us can do. Answers by: Famous Gabe, General Maintenance and Custodian

month, I have a big surprise (to me) to announce, too. Answers by: Cheryl Kees Clendenon, President and Lead Designer

IN DETAIL INTERIORS

850 S. Palafox, advisor.morganstanley.com/the-kelly-group What inspired you to get started? I enjoy helping clients align their investments with their goal. Goal setting is key. I then learned that making a few small changes in their investment, aligned with their goals, could have dramatic impacts on their success. Lastly, I discovered communication was what kept everything on track. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? When I learned I could help people reach their goals in a way few people were doing, it motivated me not only to continue, but also to train other financial advisors to do the same. Our portfolios' less traditional alternatives also keep things interesting. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A differently clear and effective path to success. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To begin teaching younger people the steps to success so we avoid the use of debt and increase generosity and philanthropy. Answers by: Chris Kelly, Senior Vice President Wealth Advisor

1514 N. Ninth Ave., indetailinteriors.com What inspired you to get started? I needed gainful employment after a rough divorce. Two little kids, who now have come back home to work for our firm, were a huge motivator. Having the flexibility to be with the girls at school events was important to me. Plus, I suck as an employee. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My team for sure. Their talent, skills and commitment to our design firm, retail shop, candle studio and our small business coaching division has made it so I can do so much more than in the past. They extend our reach in amazing ways. I am nothing without our team. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Visionary ideas, unparalleled experience and a passionate attention to detail. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We were just named a finalist in the Dallas Arts Awards in the category for design firm with a retail store. We were one of three finalists in the country, so that is pretty cool. And, next

THE KELLY GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY

Hand Tossed Pizza & 13 Mad Craft Beers on Tap 9838 N. Davis Highway Pensacola, FL 32514 850-466-2084 alittlemadnessbrewingcompany.com 434 3

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KELSEI FRAZIER PHOTOGRAPHY

kelseifrazierphotography.com What inspired you to get started? My children, no doubt. As a mother to four kiddos, I know the saying, "The days are long, but the years are short," rings true. So what better way to always have the memories to look back on than having the pictures of your children? Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Over the years, it became less about money and more about what I was able to give to these families when they called to book my photography services. I am able to freeze a moment in time, with genuine happiness being captured for families to always look back on. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Never stop chasing your dream. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? My business helps me to be more involved with the community, which I love. My goal is to continue learning, but I hope to use my talents to bring more joy, raise awareness for things and take a stand for those who need a voice to do so. Answers by: Kelsei Frazier, Owner and Photographer

NAI PENSACOLA COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

24 W. Chase St., naipensacola.com What inspired you to get started? After 26 years as a classroom teacher, I was ready for something different. I wanted more independence and flexibility and an opportunity to create my own pay scale. Taking over the company gave me the chance to create a business climate that fosters professional growth for the entire staff. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I love this work because it is something different every day. I get to interact with all types of people from all walks of life. We have a creative team of highly motivated and committed professionals, and I love seeing them succeed and thrive. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Concierge professional real estate service. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We constantly strive for ways to improve service delivery and communication with our clients. Referrals are the highest form of appreciation we can receive. Answers by: DeeDee Davis, Owner/CEO

NAVY BOULEVARD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

3835 W. Navy Blvd., navyblvd.com What inspired you to get started? I was inspired to go into animal health at a young age. Growing up on a farm brought with it many responsibilities. One of the primary responsibilities was animal care. Coupled with this responsibility is a deep fondness for animals as well as the effect they have on humans. October 14, 2021

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Navy Boulevard Animal Hospital continues to grow and build onto its family of staff, patients and pet parents. These deep-seated connections have created a community that is the driving force behind our progression. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Vet, groom, board and play. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Our goals for the near future consist primarily on securing the foundation for future growth. Prior to any major growth plans, we are making sure to update our current facility and instruments to its maximum potential. We also are continuing to promote further education and training of our current staff. Answers by: Dustin Russell, DVM, Owner/Veterinarian

BEST HAIR SALON BEST IN PENSACOL A 2020 RUNNER UP

BEST HAIR SALON BEST OF THE COAST 2019, 2020 & 2021

SHAUNCEY FURY

7 E. De Soto St., @shauncey What inspired you to get started? I started getting tattooed when I was 18, and I was immediately hooked. I got to know my artist by getting tattooed a lot. Eventually, he offered me an apprenticeship based on my graphic design portfolio. It was a long road, but it got me to where I am now. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I've been tattooing since 2005, and over the years, I've tried to make each tattoo better than the last. Whether the piece is tiny or huge, I expect legible images with deep saturation, clean lines, solid shading and bright, lasting colors. These are the standards I strive daily to maintain. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Tattoos that are made to last for a fair price. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I love the life that I share with my wife, Chloe, my dog, Bunny, and my two cats, Wednesday and Thursday. I love the shop and my house and have no plans to move. I'm currently working on turning my new super sweet van into a camping crash pad on wheels. Answers by: Shauncey Fury, Tattoo Artist

Runner up Best Hair Colorist

SUMMER CARDWELL

1000 E. Cervantes St. 850-433-5207 10thavenuehair.com

Voted Runner Up

Best New Business & Best Place to Propose @pensacolapicnicco www.pensacolapicnicco.com

SIMONE SANDS, REALTOR, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES PENFED REALTY 17 W. Cedar St., simonesells.com What inspired you to get started? Real estate has appealed to me since high school. I liked the idea of working with others, yet independently. There are so many aspects of the job; I am never bored. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Helping people with such huge life events is an honor. Seeing someone's face when they get keys to their first house is a feeling like no other. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? You bring your dreams; I'll bring my expertise. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I intend to take a road trip

next year where I am able to see wide-open spaces, mountains and big skies. Answers by: Simone Sands, Realtor/CRS

UNIVERSAL TINT PROS

122 Industrial Blvd., universaltintpros.com What inspired you to get started? I recognized I had a talent for tinting windows and a passion for business. I wanted to see how far I could go with this hobby and potentially turn it into a career. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I simply love what I do. I still have so much I want to learn and accomplish in this industry. Based on the growth I have already achieved in such a short time, I'm motivated to keep climbing and reach new heights with my company. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Top of the line service made available to everyone. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Expansion. We strive to provide vehicle owners all across the country with high-end products and impeccable customer service, all at a fair rate. We aim to make these products accessible to everyone in hopes of changing the window tinting industry as we know it today. Answers by: David Klimek, Owner and CEO

VOLUME ONE SALON

7 W. Main St., volumeonesalon.com What inspired you to get started? Hurst

started Volume ONE with the goal of creating a space that felt upscale and unique while still being warm and welcoming. Volume ONE strives to provide unmatched service and unparalleled quality. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Building people. Through apprenticeship and support staff, watching people grow, learn and hone their career is the most important and valuable part of the Volume ONE Salon culture. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Expect experts. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We want to focus on growth, both internal and external, coming out of 2021 stronger and more focused than ever. Answers by: Mary Patterson, Marketing Coordinator

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Large firm experience, small firm attention. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We have some important trials coming up, which we are focused on. They involve clients with serious, life-changing injuries. As always, our goal remains to provide our clients the highest level of service no matter whether the case resolves in settlement or requires a trial. Answers by: Scott Barnes, Partner

WARD & BARNES, P.A.

BEAUTY BY BOSLEY

222 W. Cervantes St., wardbarnes.com What inspired you to get started? We were motivated to start our firm to provide our clients with the experience and abilities of big firm lawyers, combined with the personal touch that a smaller firm can offer. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? It is a unique and incredibly rewarding feeling when you use your skill and abilities as a lawyer to help someone through a tough time. The appreciation our clients express to us when we do so keeps us going. It motivates us to do it again and again.

4305 Spanish Trail, Ste. B, @beautybybosley What inspired you to get started? Sitting at my grandma's vanity when I was a little girl and watching her as she would put on her makeup. I remember it would make me smile to watch the joy and confidence it gave her. It made me want to be able to give others that same feeling. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My daughter and family. Also, I absolutely love my job and working with brides. For a lot of women, their wedding is the most impor-

tant day of their lives, and I feel honored to get to be a part of that. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Let the beauty we love be the beauty we do. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Currently working on offering more services to my clientele, such as microblading, facials and lash extensions, along with one-on-one makeup classes and education. Answers by: Jessica Bosley

HAIR+CO

1627 W. Garden St., hairandco.salon What inspired you to get started? We wanted to provide a breath of fresh air for the community, not only for our guests but also our stylists. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our guests and our stylists have become our family. We have created a unique space where people have found peace and tranquility, and we strive every day to improve and be creative. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where the light pours in. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To continue to expand ourselves to be creative and push the boundaries of what we have done in the past. Exciting new things are on the horizon. Answers by: Brittany Bere and Jodie Chevillet

Celebrating 25 Years Of Business

Thank You Pensacola For Your Continued Support Certified Picture Framers On Staff Conservation Framing • Shadowboxes • Specialty Mats Needlework • Photos • Prints

4718 North W St. • 432-5519 Open Tuesday–Saturday, 9:30–6:00

636 3

1308 Dunmire St. (off 9th Ave.) (850) 287-5836 | PilatesCoreTraining.com

LMT# MA64267

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JENN ROGERS MAKEUP ARTISTRY

facebook.com/jennrogers25 What inspired you to get started? My love of makeup started in the '90s when we didn't have YouTube and other social media. Looking at makeup in editorial print made me love it as a different format of art. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My clients' reactions keep me going. Making people feel beautiful is my No. 1 priority. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Let me make you the best version of you. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I would love to do more production work. Aside from bridal, that is my next biggest passion. Answers by: Jenn Rogers, Owner

LUXE EVENT RENTALS

3987 N. W. St., Unit 12, facebook.com/luxeeventrentalsfl What inspired you to get started? Our daughter's wedding. I loved the hunt for the perfect piece and the fact that I could use my talent to be able to take unique items and turn them into beautiful and wonderful pieces. So Luxe Event Rentals was born. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? That's easy to answer—the joy and excitement of our clients on their special day. I end up crying almost every wedding. Our clients become very special to us, and we thank God for blessing us with the best couples. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our desire is to provide the wedding of your dreams. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We have grown so much in a year and continue to grow daily with faith in God. Our goal is to continue our passion and move Luxe to the next phase. Answers by: Kristina Smith, Owner

NANCY'S CATERING & EVENTS

3206 E. DeSoto St., nancyscateringandevents.com What inspired you to get started? The opportunity to cook for special events and help make those moments as stress-free as possible for the hosts. We were also inspired by the ability to expand our product and services to outside of our restaurants. When we started in 2009, there were limited choices of caterers in town. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? After all of these years, when guests come in and talk about their past events, such as weddings, reunions, etc., and how their guests still talk about the food we provided, that means everything. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Personalized, restaurantquality food brought with friendliest professional staff. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To continue providing October 14, 2021

great quality food and service to special events along the Gulf Coast. Answers by: Gus Silivos, Owner and Executive Chef

PALAFOX WHARF WATERFRONT RECEPTION VENUE

617 S. Palafox, palafoxwharf.com What inspired you to get started? Back about 14 years ago, different food caterers approached us, encouraging us to create a wedding venue at Palafox Wharf Venue & Green. There were no independent wedding venues in the area. They told us that Palafox Wharf would be the perfect location for romantic weddings with a scenic view. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Every day is different, and we have largely been in business for ourselves throughout our lives. We choose to craft a business and a way of life that we truly love. We genuinely love weddings, events, our couples, our creative partners and our team. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Stress-free historical, scenic, waterfront wedding event venue and green. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? A surprise for Palafox Wharf's Waterfront Green. Answers by: Sandy McDavid, Owner, Manager and Helper

PENSACOLA PICNIC CO.

pensacolapicnicco.com What inspired you to get started? I wanted to create something people in Pensacola could do that embodied the charm and romance of our sweet Southern town and perfect beach and was also COVIDfriendly. My background in event planning and love for the beach made it a perfect plan for me. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My guests are always thrilled with their experience, and it's their response that keeps me going. I want everyone who has a picnic to have a memorable experience, and it's encouraging when they're happy with what I've done. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A styled, luxury beach picnic giving you unforgettable memories. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I have been so blessed with overwhelming support in our first year in business. This next year, I plan to add more to our picnic crew so we can do more picnics in a day. I am looking to open a storefront in the next year as well. Answers by: Mariann Greene

SALT + LIGHT VISUALS

saltandlightvisuals.com What inspired you to get started? Caleb fell in love with capturing love stories after hesitantly agreeing to second shoot a wedding with another photographer. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Knowing we are creating videos that will be passed down and shared like a family heirloom. 37

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Capturing love stories to last a lifetime. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Lots of exciting things coming in 2022. Right now, they're a secret, so be on the lookout for an announcement. Answers by: Caleb Cummings, Owner and Operator

SKIN BY KENDALL LYN

skinbykendalllyn.com What inspired you to get started? There is something special about being chosen to be a part of the bride's wedding day. It is one of the single most important days of your life, and to be there behind the scenes doing makeup is so rewarding. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My upcoming brides and clients definitely motivate me to keep going. I always look forward to meeting new people and being a small but important role on their wedding day or special event. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Professional but nothing short of laughs and a good time. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I would really love to grow my business and incorporate more "glam squad" members. I also would love to teach up-and-coming makeup artists airbrush makeup and other tips I've picked up over the years. We will see. Answers by: Kendall Frazee, Makeup Artist

SOUTHERN FRILLS WEDDINGS & EVENTS

southernfrillsevents.com What inspired you to get started? I love to celebrate. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My clients' love stories are amazing. This truly feeds my heart and soul. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We design and plan lifetime events infused with love. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I am so excited for this— The Wedding Bar. It is your one-stop shop to find all of your favorite wedding items and vendors in one place. Answers by: Kelly Rhodes, Owner and Lead Planner

SOWELL FARMS

7650 Sowell Road, Milton, sowellfarms.com What inspired you to get started? It was always a dream I had to plan weddings. This dream became our family's passion and motivation to build our venue. Our family had the opportunity to build this dream, and we did it. There is no better feeling than watching the bride walk down the aisle. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Just our passion to be part of the special day. We love all the details and watching it come to

fruition. It is a beautiful thing to be part of the best day of someone's life. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? When you choose us, you become part of our family. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We continuously strive to be the best and improve the property and the overall experience for our brides. Answers by: Ashlie Sowell Abbott and Ryan Abbott, Managers

TAP THE COAST

tapthecoast.com What inspired you to get started? I discovered mobile bars on Pinterest and saw they were taking off all over the country. There were a few in Central and South Florida but none in the Panhandle. I decided it was the perfect opportunity to build my own and took it up a notch with the photobooth. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? It's the people. We get to celebrate some of life's biggest milestones with our clients, their families and closest friends. It's an honor to create memorable experiences for those special occasions, whether it's a wedding, grand opening for a business or 1st birthday party. It's a great feeling. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We create memorable experiences for life's unforgettable moments.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? From day one, I've always envisioned Tap the Coast operating beyond the Pensacola area. We currently have the largest fleet of mobile bars in the region, and I'm looking forward to opportunities for expansion further along the coast in 2022. We're also adding cocktail classes, retail and more. Answers by: Dannon Byrd, Owner

THE WHISTLING PIG

7654 Sowell Road, Milton, whistlingpigbbq.com What inspired you to get started? I love to cook, and everyone always told me I should open a restaurant. We decided to start with a food truck and have never looked back. We have such a passion for cooking barbecue, and we love to share that passion with our customers. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our love for cooking great food. There are so many techniques, and we truly enjoy perfecting our craft and serving delicious food to our customers. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Ryan and Ashlie's Boujee BBQ. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We want to compete for a BBQ World Championship. We have our sights set on Memphis in May of 2022. Answers by: Ashlie Sowell Abbott and Ryan Abbott, Owners

BEST SPORTS BAR

VOTED

(that’s not really a sports bar, only a bar that shows sports) AGAIN! + Runner Up Best Sports Team Club Headquarters

23 PAL AFOX PL. | 850-43-BRUCE 838 3

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EVER'MAN COOPERATIVE GROCERY & CAFE

315 W. Garden St., 1000 E. Nine Mile Road, everman.org What inspired you to get started? Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe was originally founded in Gulf Breeze in 1973 to provide wholesome, nutritious food at a reasonable cost. In the tradition of our founders, cooperative members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe is on a mission. We are grounded in a rich history and driven by our commitment to actively create a more healthy, vibrant community. After more than 40 years, we continue to be the local source for natural and organic foods and education about conscious living. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Bringing natural foods to your table. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We want to grow our community of members, as we have expanded to our Nine Mile Road location. Answers by: Joy George, Finance Manager

JADE TREE SUCCULENTS

@jadetreesucculents What inspired you to get started? I fell in love with crafting with plants, succulents in particular. I found something that I really enjoy doing that I can share with others. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I've worked hard to build my brand, and people like it. My passion is decorating your space with plants, so being able to put pieces together that can add so much warmth to a person's home brings me happiness. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Decorate with plants. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I want to make a huge moss wall. Answers by: Catherine Boswell, Owner

JOE HOBBS GLASS

1060 N. Guillemard St., Studio E, thejoehobbs.com What inspired you to get started? I was a drawing and painting major in college and took glass as an elective. I thought it was going to be like stained glass and I could apply my 2-D imagery on something other than paper and canvas. I was instantly enamored with the material. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My children, Sierra and Samson, have been October 14, 2021

working with me in the glass studio, helping me and making their own pieces. It brings me a lot of happiness to be working in the glass studio with them, and it's as exciting as it was 27 years ago. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Custom deluxe glass art formed by the coast. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? After my kids and I finish making pumpkins and ghosts, we will transition to creating Christmas-themed pieces. I also have a few challenging chandelier projects in the works for some local residents. And, who knows, maybe I'll finally draw on some glass. Answers by: Joe Freaking Hobbs, Storyteller and Glass Artist

THE MODERN ECLECTIC

Located inside of Blue Moon Antique Mall, 3721 W. Navy Blvd., @the_modern_eclectic What inspired you to get started? I love using unique vintage goods for fashion and home decor. Having always enjoyed thrifting, I dreamt of one day having my own little boutique collection. It started as a simple booth, but now it feels more like a space where I can share my collection of cool secondhand pieces. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I love people shopping my stuff. It creates a dialogue where an appreciation for forgotten treasures is shared. Careful curation brings together only the best and gives each piece a new life. This then ends up broadening your palette of self-expression, and I've found there's a real need for that. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? I thrift so you don't have to. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Besides growing my inventory, I'd like to continue to explore online avenues. It's been surprising how well the modern online experience supports a passion for eclectic tastes. Unique pieces have the potential to spark something in each of us. Chatting, posting and sharing are all ways of spreading that joy. Answers by: Carly Loss, Owner

Small Batch Big Flavour

Voted Runner Up BEST BRIDAL MAKE-UP ARTIST

The Black Garlic Market Runner Up Best Local Food Manufacturer

(850) 982-0211 jennrogersmakeup@gmail.com

(850) 221-1678 theblackgarlicmarket@gmail.com

facebook.com/blackgarlic196

PENSACOLA POP COMICS

909 N. 12th Ave., pensacolapopcomics.com What inspired you to get started? A lifelong love of the very rich comics medium and wanting to share that with others. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Rarely being satisfied with the shop as is. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A clean, well-lighted place slap full of pulpy comic goodness. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I wish I knew. Answers by: Harley Orr, Owner

SALTWATER STYLE

507 S. Adams St., lovesaltstyle.com What inspired you to get started? Opening the store was not planned. It all just kind of happened. I am loving that I took the chance even though it has been uncertain at times. I used to set up at festivals and Gallery Night with my etched glass, and now I can offer so much more. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I'm not really established yet. I only opened around six months ago. I enjoy interacting with locals and those visiting, helping them find that special gift or creating etched glass items to help commemorate special events. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Inspired by Pensacola, shared with the world. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? In December, my etched glass will be featured in the Pensacola Airport, and I am looking forward to celebrating my one-year anniversary in 2022. Answers by: Cheryl Lynn Galavitz, Owner

SILVER STREET BLUES

silverstreetblues.com What inspired you to get started? Honestly, it was by chance. I was attending PJC and needed one more elective to take and had no idea what to choose. Luckily, jewelry making was recommended to me. I ended up taking three or four semesters of it and knew it was something I wanted to pursue.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? What truly keeps me going are the experiences and connections I get to make with people through my jewelry. Whether it be making someone smile or being told they will cherish what I've made and will wear it every day, it can be pretty powerful stuff. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? An ever-evolving passion for making handcrafted jewelry. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? An open-ended goal I've set personally and professionally is to always stay true to myself. It can certainly be challenging at times, but at the end of the day, I want to be able to look back at my life and work and be proud of what I have done. Answers by: Alex Gossman, Maker

SUSAN CAMPBELL JEWELRY

susancampbelljewelry.com What inspired you to get started? My passion for independent designer jewelry as a form of wearable art and the opportunity to share this art form with Pensacola 16 years ago. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Relentless fighting spirit. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Southern jeweler reinventing traditions with an individual spirit.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Making the transition from a public walk-in gallery to an online catalog has been huge. Spending the past 18-20 months focusing on family and friends has been priceless. Now, on to the next adventure—how to bring the bling digitally. Answers by: Susan Campbell Hatler, Owner

THE TECH HANDYMAN

6224 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. 6, techhandymanfl.com What inspired you to get started? My passion for electronics and repair was a great formula to base my business on. Running a business with excellent customer service was the natural next step. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My industry is constantly innovating and changing, which helps me to do the same. We keep tweaking and trying new things to benefit customers and to help the business grow. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Affordable and quality repair with excellent customer service. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I am happy where The Tech Handyman is and where it's going. Currently, my two daughters are the most important thing in my life, and my goal is to be there for them as much as possible, trying to give them the best future I can. Answers by: Ryan Galvan, Owner

TOAD HALL ANTIQUES & GIFTS

824 E. Belmont St., toadhallantiques.com What inspired you to get started? My love for unique items and enjoying sharing them with others. When I travel, it's always fun to find things and bring them back to showcase in the store. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I sincerely enjoy helping people find something that makes them happy, whether it is an outfit, gift or something for their home. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? It's not the match but the mix of unique. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I want to continue bringing in new items for the store you won't find all over, as well as spend more time with my new grandson. Answers by: Dana McBride, Owner

WATERBOYZ SURF AND SKATE SHOP

380 N. Ninth Ave., waterboyz.com What inspired you to get started? Spreading the love of surfing and skating to as many people as possible. Creating an environment that would become a community of surfers and skaters to last for generations to come. Passing on the love of this amazing lifestyle to as many people as we can.

Thank You for Voting

BRUNCH & BOTTOMLESS EVERY DAY 232 E. MAIN STREET EATSOUTHMARKET.COM 040 4

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Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Watching the surf and skate community, as well as the Pensacola community itself, continue to grow inspires us to keep up. Seeing so many young people in the area pick up a surfboard or skateboard and fall in love is enough to tell us to keep moving forward. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Loyalty, rhythm and soul. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? One of our main goals on the horizon is to produce events that pull the best surfers and skaters along the Gulf Coast together and bring as much attention to these sports as possible, as well as to get more of our team riders to go pro like Shane Sandhoff. Answers by: Waverly Norris, General Manager

A LITTLE MADNESS BREWING COMPANY

9838 N. Davis Highway, alittlemadnessbrewingcompany.com What inspired you to get started? The catalyst for our brewery was to bring locally produced, quality craft beer choices to our uptown Pensacola community using sustainable practices. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We are excited to continue sharing the knowledge behind craft beer while we grow and offer more high-quality products while expanding our sustainability initiatives. Our motivation comes from the enjoyment our customers experience when visiting our taproom for a great beer and delicious pizza. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Hand-crafted beer and hand-tossed pizzas sustainably produced for our community. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We continue working toward some early goals after a slow start but are excited to bring a brewery to farm to table experience in our taproom. We are hoping to unveil this expansion come spring but look forward to introducing more people to our little brewery in the meantime. Answers by: David Beddick, President and Head Brewer

BADLANDS ROADSIDE BAR

23 S. Palafox, facebook.com/nynbadlands What inspired you to get started? I started in the business at 14 as a busboy. After my first day, I knew what I wanted to do. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Staying October 14, 2021

on top of all the things to stay in business and utilizing all the years of experience to remain in the business. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A bar that's just a bar, no frills. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Continue the business a few more years; then retire and sell the collection. Answers by: Nick Zangari, Owner/President

THE ELBOW ROOM

2213 W. Cervantes St., @elbowroompensacola What inspired you to get started? I visited Ms. Maggie and my grandmother when I was growing up in the Elbow Room. I wanted to preserve the legacy. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The customers and myself sharing the same bond and appreciation of what Jim and Maggie created. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Step into a different time and dimension. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Getting ready for Halloween, Christmas and New Year's. Also, upgrades. Answers by: Lesa Touchette, Owner/Operator

SEVILLE QUARTER

130 E. Government St., sevillequarter.com What inspired you to get started? Seville Quarter was started more than 50 years ago by Bob Snow with the inspiration of bringing great music and "Good Times" to historic downtown Pensacola. The staff at Seville Quarter is still inspired every day to deliver great Pensacola hospitality to our locals and visiting guests. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Seville Quarter is a landmark in downtown Pensacola, and our goal is to keep delivering memorable moments to the next generation of great customers. We are always motivated to keep the Seville Quarter Entertainment District as the No. 1 go-to music and dining venue on the Gulf Coast. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The Gulf Coast's No. 1 entertainment and dining destination since 1967. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Seville Quarter's goals are to help bring the world back to "normal." Pensacola is ready for the "Good Times" to start rolling again. We are always working on improving and making sure our staff and customers know we appreciate their hard work, loyalty and continued support. Answers by: Buck Mitchell, Marketing Director 41

much joy. It's a business model we plan on keeping. Answers by: Chef Matthew Brown, CEO/Co-owner

THE DISTRICT: SEVILLE STEAK & SEAFOOD THE BLACK GARLIC MARKET

6404 Mobile Highway, facebook.com/blackgarlic196 What inspired you to get started? We created a new flavor by accident. It was far from perfect. We shared with and did practical applications with it. Our goal was to bring this amazing flavor to everyone. The "wow" moment and the pride we feel in sharing our joy is immeasurable. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We have started to see black garlic show up more and more in fine dining and international restaurants. This was our opportunity to bring an incredible punch of flavor to everyone and to add a new color to the culinary palette. It is exciting to see all culinary levels enjoying it. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Small batch, big flavor. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We would like to be able to share our unique flavor with other new entrepreneurs and folks inspired to try a new, bold flavor. Continuing our goal and our love has brought us and others so

123 E. Government St., districtsteaks.com What inspired you to get started? The District: Seville Steak & Seafood was the inspiration of Wilmer Mitchell, the owner of Seville Quarter. His love for great steaks and terrific local seafood was the driving motivation. Modeled after the great steakhouses of New York City, our focus is to have the best restaurant on the Gulf Coast. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The District: Seville Steak & Seafood opened only three years ago. Becoming the go-to restaurant in downtown Pensacola is our main motivation. Delivering a memorable dining experience every night is our goal. Executive Chef Josh Warner's motivation is to serve the best prime steak you have ever tasted. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Making history in downtown Pensacola. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? The District's upstairs Balcony Lounge is a great addition to the Seville Entertainment District. We are working to establish The Upstairs Lounge as another great dining and entertainment

destination in downtown Pensacola. We are featuring a speakeasy feel with jazz music, classic cocktails and a terrific small plate shareable menu. Answers by: Buck Mitchell, Marketing Director

EAST HILL PIZZA

2030 N. 12th Ave., easthillpizza.com What inspired you to get started? We were inspired by our community and to be known as the best locally owned pizza restaurant by spreading happiness with pizza. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our customers most definitely motivate us to keep going. Even through some hard times, they have supported us, and we will continue to give back as much as we can to our local community. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Local pizza restaurant that loves our community and spreading kindness. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We hope to continue helping our local community with our #pizzapayitforward program and hope to win Best of the Coast next year. Answers by: Darlyne Zoltak, Owner

ELEVATED ENTREE

@elevated_entree What inspired you to get started? Growing up in a large family, we all cooked together every weekend. I used to follow my

grandmother around the kitchen. I always loved the family aspect of what cooking brings together. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My passion for great food and meeting great people along the way. I also want to show my children that anything is possible if you work hard at something. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Food is our forte; making memories is our passion. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Focusing my attention on building my own dreams and hopefully inspiring the next generation of chefs along the way. Answers by: Keith Pardue, Chef

GREEK'S CATERING AND EVENTS

3960 Spanish Trail, greekscatering.com What inspired you to get started? I had the benefit of growing up in a family of entrepreneurs. I saw the satisfaction that came from a job well done that directly impacted your family and the freedom that owning a business gives you in many ways. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My family, our two beautiful daughters especially. Also, our employees. We know the responsibility that we carry on our shoulders to make the right decisions because they can affect everyone within the company.

THANK YOU PENSACOLA!

Voted Runner Up •Best Pizza •Best Restaurant East Hill •Best Take Out/ To Go •Best Wings

•Homemade pizza dough & sauces made daily •Local & veteran owned •Weekday lunch & happy hour specials •Home of the #PizzaPayItForward program

www.easthillpizza.com 2030 N 12th Ave. | 850-857-9977 242 4

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

127 Palafox Place Suite 100 (850)466-3115 autumnbeckblackledge.com inweekly.net

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Delicious food and warm welcomes, from our family to yours. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Expansion of our food truck sector of the business. We just completed our third truck this year, and we have a fourth truck in the works for 2022. Continual growth as an individual and looking for ways to improve our offerings for our team. Answers by: Stelios and Cristin Peterson, Owner and Operator

J'S BAKERY

2014 N. 12th Ave., jsbakeryandcafe.com What inspired you to get started? J's Bakery is an institution in Pensacola. We grew up going there and thought it was worth saving. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We have a great team. Shanelle is the most talented cake decorator in our entire area. Tanya runs the shop and does the baking. She will launch her food truck soon. We couldn't make it without the rest of the team and all they do. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Purveyors of happiness. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Getting our food truck going, returning to a lunch menu like what we had downtown and getting Lemon Sage Catering up and running. Answers by: Ryan, technically the boss

LUCY'S IN THE SQUARE

301 S. Adams St., facebook.com/lucysinthesquare What inspired you to get started? To provide a fun, comfortable and unique environment for all, including the fourlegged furry ones. Offering fresh, tasty eats with a cool selection of interesting beer, wine and cocktails. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Definitely our guests. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Come. Sit. Stay.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? During a challenging time as an owner of multiple small businesses, I'm working on taking time for me, my husband and our pup, Louie, and enjoying doing some things we love. Answers by: Heather Kilpatrick, Owner

THE MAGIC OF THE INCOMPARABLE

PALAFOX WHARF

SOUTH MARKET

232 E. Main St., eatsouthmarket.com What inspired you to get started? The author Michael Pollan brought my attention to the concept of food-like substances. When I decided to open a restaurant, I knew I needed to pay attention to food labels and make choices that would lead to better health for our community through real food. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? As someone with food allergies, I know how difficult it can be to eat out. When I hear from our customers that they or their children with gluten or soy allergies are able to enjoy our burger and fries, it makes me happy we are there for them. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Come as you are for real food and craft cocktails. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We just opened a sister restaurant called BAR515 Cocktails and Tapas just inside Pace on Chumuckla Highway, three traffic lights from UWF. We are focusing on growing this business and bringing real food and community to the Pace area. Come see us downtown or in Pace. Answers by: Holly Hays, Owner

VOTED RUNNER UP

BEST RECEPTION VENUE

runner up best

WEDDING CATERER

Photo by Aislinn Kate Photography

850.287.4433

whistlingpigbbq.com

UNION PUBLIC HOUSE

309 S. Reus St., unionpensacola.com What inspired you to get started? I wanted to bring a unique experience to Pensacola while doing what I love. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The next new, exciting dish or cocktail and our amazing UPH families drive us. If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A crafty Southern pub where it all comes together. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Details coming soon. Answers by: Blake Rushing, Chef/Owner

—KENDALL FRAZEE— Makeup Artist Skin By Kendall Lyn @kendalllyn_skin Kendall.Lyn.Bray@gmail.com *Photo by Lindsay Brock Photography October 14, 2021

617 South Palafox Street (850) 748-5102 www.palafoxwharf.com

Voted Runner Up

Best Wedding Rentals @luxe_eventrentals 43

444 4

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music

By Savannah Evanoff

It Really Is a Family Thing

Ben Loftin & The Family / Courtesy Photo

Ben Loftin & The Family runs a little like a car. Loftin, the frontman of the Pensacola band, shows up with a rental car. Marcus Gillard (bass guitar) and Christian Sanders (drums) drive the sound from the front seat. The horn section—Austin Paul (vocals/saxophone) and Brian Thompson (trombone)—occupy the middle seats, operating the opening and closing of doors— but with the child lock on. And Loftin, well, he's a bit of a backseat driver, he said. What Loftin is trying to say with his prolonged analogy is that their band has seven family members to incorporate into its "white sand funk" music—not to mention a few extended relatives who come to visit from time to time. Other members include Avion Wright (congas/vocals) and recent addition Bo Fabbro (keyboard/organ). Song ideas hit Loftin in the face, and he presents them to Gillard and Sanders to give the song a foundation and identity, he said. Then, they bring in the horns. "The horns come in and play the whole ice cream sprinkles and add that flair on top of it and really add a lot of energy," Loftin said. "They're the ones that bring in the energy and really push it to a new song direction." The band's three-word genre is an obvious homage to Northwest Florida. "White sand funk represented a little bit of that beachier, softer feel," Loftin said. "It's a blend of singer-songwriter stuff, so October 14, 2021

that felt like a softer name for funk music, but a lot of the funk and reggae influence is definitely still there. Sand isn't quite as soft everywhere else around the world." The group started when Loftin and Austin met in room 618 at Booker T. Washington High School, aka a band room. They later met Gillard and Sanders, and the four began "wildin' out in jazz band," Loftin said. Their first show was for an audience of local music instructors at Vinyl Music Hall in 2011. "They were putting together a big showcase thing for all their students, and they had reached out to me because I was a former student of one of them," Loftin said. Their first name was Avenida 12, which somehow evolved into BLT. Loftin claims that stands for bacon, lettuce and tomato rather than something like Ben Loftin Troupe. "(Paul) was the one, 'Let's call it the family,'" Loftin said. "We'd all been playing together for so long, it was like, 'Hey we're going to get a logo and get some stickers and make a brand name thing.' I never really liked the idea of being the Ben Loftin Band, and I was throwing ideas like Ben Lofton and Friends, just random other stuff." Ben Loftin & The Family is much more fitting than the sandwich idea. The members communicate more with each other than anyone else. "As time went on and things changed, and we all came closer and moved in together, lived life together, lost days to-

gether, got more things together, we're just family," Sanders said. "The music grew. The originals grew, and now this is our family; this is my family." Loftin, Gillard and Sanders lived together for a three-year stint. "Our house was like the hub where everyone else would just come hang out, basically," Loftin said. "(Wright) slept on a couch every night." There, they got into trouble, jammed out, skateboarded, cooked and hosted pool parties, bonfires, fish fries and rooftop hangs—and busted ass on the tile, Loftin said with a laugh. They jammed, too, but with a work-driven mindset, he said. "That probably comes from a lot of us having originally started playing music together in a really professional setting," Loftin said. "I mean, I say professional, but in school settings. When you played, it was a serious thing, like you took it serious. You made parts happen and you communicated with each other to organize the songs and make it not just like a jam session." Jamming is more of a live thing. "When we sit down in the practice room, it's like, 'OK, here's the objective for the practice. Let's accomplish these goals,'" Loftin said. "Jamming happens a lot live when we have the opportunity to interact with each other in a crowd setting and we know where everyone's at, and there's no hesitation because we all worked out the parts in between in the practice room, so definitely a lot of jamming but a lot of bonding, friends hanging out when we aren't playing shows and we aren't actually having organized practices." "That's when the real mesh comes in, when everybody is not just in the performance realm but also in the social realm as well," Paul added. The band is excited to have recently captured its live sound on video in a foursong session made with Pensacola Digital. Stay tuned for live performance videos of one new song and three older "back pocket" songs, Loftin said. "These videos are going to be really fun to get some reactions from people because it's a project we've tried multiple times," Loftin said. "I think it's gonna be a pivotal

point that changes what we're gonna do with the group, so it's like that step into the realm of like, 'Hey, here's our music as a band. This is what we are doing, not just a weekend at Seville type of deal. Here's our performance. You can see us, feel us, hear us.'" "It was a full-on production; everything you could ask or want in a video production was there and involved," Sanders said. "You had all hands on deck, rigs on the sides, moving cameras, still cameras, lighting was on point. Audio, everything. This is going to be one that everyone that listens to our music needs to stay tuned for. It's definitely a treat." They also have a chunk of new releases for next year—call it COVID content, Loftin said. Sanders' current favorite song to perform (it changes) is "Moon Song." Loftin originally played it acoustically, and Sanders didn't pay it much mind, he said. "We sat down one day, and I realized how powerful the message was," Sanders said. "I didn't write this song, so what I take from it is just the push and pull of the sun and the moon and things constantly changing, but everything comes back to gravity. There's obviously more insight to the song, but a simple way to put it and how I take it is two individuals pushing and pulling and it all comes back, no matter what." Plus, he likes the drum arrangement. "The energy starts real low, and by the end of it, you look on stage and everybody's putting in 110% and nobody's eyes are open," Sanders said. "It's just amazing." One of Gillard's top choices—because Sanders stole his actual favorite—is "Live Before You Die." "Literally, as the title states, you just gotta live before you die and live life to its fullest, because you never know when your last day's gonna be," Gillard said. "The bass part is dope. The drums and the bass are locked in the whole song. It's a good feel, a feel-good song." Ben Loftin & The Family could use a feelgood song right now. The band lost 100 dates to the pandemic, not to mention moved houses, lost income and were more physically distant from each other than usual. But Loftin sees the light at the end of their socially distanced tunnel. He looks forward to next summer and the following year and, with them, hopefully the opportunity to spread their sound in Pensacola and beyond. Hide your kids; hide your wives, he said. Winning Best Band in Inweekly's Best of the Coast 2021 is going on the highlight reel. "That's epic because I think we've been runners up for like five years now," Loftin said. {in} BEN LOFTIN & THE FAMILY benloftinmusic.com 45

free will astrology WEEK OF OCTOBER 14 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): According

to my understanding of the upcoming weeks, life will present you with unusual opportunities. I suspect you will find it reasonable and righteous to shed, dismantle, and rebel against the past. Redefining your history will be a fun and worthy project. Here are other related activities I recommend for you—1. Forget and renounce a long-running fear that has never come true. 2. Throw away a reminder of an old experience that makes you feel bad. 3. Freshen your mood and attitude by moving around the furniture and decor in your home. 4. Write a note of atonement to a person you hurt once upon a time. 5. Give yourself a new nickname that inspires you to emancipate yourself from a pattern or habit you want to leave behind.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Taurus

poet Donte Collins' preferred pronouns are "they" and "them." They describe themself as Black, queer, and adopted. "A lover doesn't discourage your growth," they write. "A lover says, 'I see who you are today, and I cannot wait to see who you become tomorrow.'" I hope you have people like that in your life, Taurus—lovers, friends, allies, and relatives. If there is a scarcity of such beloved companions in your life, the next eight weeks will be an excellent time to round up new ones. And if you are connected with people who delight in your progress and evolution, deepen your connection with them.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): Gemini

author Lisa Cron advises her fellow writers, "Avoid exclamation points! Really!! Because they're distracting!! Almost as much as CAPITALIZING THINGS!!!" I'll expand her counsel to apply not just to writers, but to all of you Geminis. In my astrological opinion, you're likely to find success in the coming weeks if you're understated, modest, and unmelodramatic. Make it your goal to create smooth, suave, savvy solutions. Be cagey and cool and crafty.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): Ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu told us that

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By Rob Brezsny

water is in one sense soft and passive but is in another sense superb at eroding jams and obstacles that are hard and firm. There's a magic in the way its apparent weakness overcomes what seems strong and unassailable. You are one of the zodiac's top wielders of water's superpower, Cancerian. And in the coming weeks, it will work for you with even more amazing grace than usual. Take full advantage of your sensitivity, your emotional intelligence and your empathy.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Leo author James Baldwin told us, "You read something which you thought only happened to you and you discover that it happened 100 years ago to [Russian novelist] Fyodor Dostoyevsky. This is a great liberation for the suffering, struggling person, who always thinks that he is alone." In that spirit, Leo, and in accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to track down people who have had pivotal experiences similar to yours, either in the distant or recent past. These days, you need the consoling companionship they can provide. Their influence could be key to liberating you from at least some of your pain. VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): Poet Octavio Paz described two kinds of distraction. One is "the distraction of the person who is always outside himself, lost in the trivial, senseless, turmoil of everyday life." The other is "the distraction of the person who withdraws from the world in order to shut himself up in the secret and ever-changing land of his fantasy." In my astrological opinion, you Virgos should specialize in the latter during the coming weeks. It's time to reinvigorate your relationship with your deep inner sources. Go in search of the reverent joy that comes from communing with your tantalizing mysteries. Explore the riddles at the core of your destiny. LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): "We must

never be afraid to go too far, for truth lies beyond," declared novelist Marcel Proust. I wouldn't normally offer that counsel to you Libras. One of your strengths is your skill at maintaining healthy boundaries. You know how to set dynamic limits that are just right: neither too extreme nor too timid. But

according to my analysis of the astrological potentials, the coming weeks will be one of those rare times when you'll be wise to consider an alternative approach: that the most vigorous truths and liveliest energies may lie beyond where you usually go.

appreciated and understood. But I urge you to refrain from taming and toning yourself down too much in the coming weeks. Don't do what Sontag did. In my astrological opinion, it's time for you to be an extra vivid version of yourself.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): Author

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): "I am

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21):

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): "The truth is," writes cartoonist Bill Watterson, "most of us discover where we are headed when we arrive." I sense this will describe your life during the next six weeks. Your long, strange journey won't come to an end, of course. But a key chapter in that long, strange journey will climax. You will be mostly finished with lessons you have been studying for many moons. The winding road you have been following will end up someplace in particular. And sometime soon, I suspect you'll spy a foreshadowing flash of this denouement.

William S. Burroughs claimed his greatest strength was a "capacity to confront myself no matter how unpleasant." But he added a caveat to his brag: Although he recognized his mistakes, he rarely made any corrections. Yikes! Dear Scorpio, I invite you to do what Burroughs couldn't. Question yourself about how you might have gone off course, but then actually make adjustments and atonements. As you do, keep in mind these principles—1. An apparent mistake could lead you to a key insight or revelation. 2. An obstruction to the flow may prod you to open your mind and heart to a liberating possibility. 3. A snafu might motivate you to get back to where you belong. 4. A mess could show you something important you've been missing.

In her novel "We Have Always Lived in the Castle," Sagittarian author Shirley Jackson wrote, "Today my winged horse is coming, and I am carrying you off to the moon, and on the moon, we will eat rose petals." I wonder what you would do if you received a message like that—an invitation to wander out on fanciful or mysterious adventures. I hope you'd be receptive. I hope you wouldn't say, "There are so such things as flying horses. It's impossible to fly to the moon and eat rose petals." Even if you don't typically entertain such whimsical notions, the time is favorable to do so now. I bet you will be pleased with the unexpected grace they bring your way.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19):

Capricorn author Susan Sontag wrote about people who weren't receptive to her intensity and intelligence. She said she always had "a feeling of being 'too much' for them— a creature from another planet—and I would try to scale myself down to size, so I could be apprehendable and lovable by them." I understand the inclination to engage in such self-diminishment. We all want to be

diagnosed with not having enough insanely addictive drugs coursing through my body," joked comedian Sarah Silverman. Judging from current cosmic rhythms, I'm inclined to draw a similar conclusion about you. It may be wise for you to dose yourself with intoxicants. JUST KIDDING! I lied. Here's the truth—I would love for you to experience extra rapture, mystic illumination, transcendent sex, and yes, even intoxication in the coming weeks. My analysis of the astrological omens suggests these delights are more likely and desirable than usual. However, the best way to arouse them is by communing with your favorite non-drug and non-alcohol inebriants. The benefits will last longer and incur no psychological cost.

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: What subject are you trying to avoid thinking about. newsletter.freewillastrology.com

freewillastrology.com

inweekly.net

news of the weird INEXPLICABLE Doctors at Klaipeda University Hospital in Lithuania were shocked to discover the source of a man's abdominal pain through an X-ray, The Guardian reported on Oct. 1. Apparently as a response to giving up alcohol about a month ago, the man had swallowed more than a kilogram of metal objects: nuts, nails, bolts, screws and knives. It took surgeons three hours to remove the pieces and repair the inner walls of the stomach. The unnamed man is being kept under observation and has been offered psychological assistance. MISTAKEN IDENTITY Animal control officers were called to a home in San Mateo, California, on Oct. 3 to rescue a stranded tarantula on the roof, United Press International reported. But according to the Peninsula Humane Society, when the officer climbed up to capture it, she instead found an old Halloween decoration. "It looked like it had been up there for a while," said Buffy Tarbox, communications manager for the Humane Society. "Everyone thought it was real." The fake spider turned up for a few days on various desks at the Humane Society offices, then hit the circular file. IT'S A MYSTERY WRAL-TV reported on Oct. 4 that several drivers along Highway 147 in Durham, North Carolina, had experienced a shower of brown, greasy, bad-smelling liquid hitting their vehicles and subsequently damaging the paint. "It had sort of a bleach smell," said Heather Toler. "It was raining down on top of the cars. It seems to be acidic based on how it's eating away the paint on the car." The mystery was solved two days later, when representatives of the chemical wholesale company Brenntag informed WRAL-TV that several of its employees had been depressurizing and disconnecting an empty sulfuric acid railcar at the company's facility next to the highway, causing acid vapor to be released into the air. •This mystery is also solved: Police in Japan have been working for months to figure out why a light pole in Suzuka suddenly snapped at its base on Feb. 18. Most light poles in the country last for 50 years or more, but this one was only 23 years old. NBC New York reported on Oct. 1 that forensic scientists found 40 times more urea at the pole's base than was found on nearby poles. Yep, dog pee killed the light pole: Urea and sodium in dog urine caused the pole to erode. The new pole is up, but dogs are already marking it with their caustic streams. PRECIOUS Fargo, North Dakota, insurance agent Bill Fischer has a perennial battle with a certain red squirrel, Fox23-TV reported. Every fall, the animal squirrels away walnuts for the coming winter inside Fischer's pickup truck, then Fischer has to remove them so

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

he can drive the truck. This year, Fischer has collected almost 350 pounds of walnuts from around the engine, the wheel wells, the front bumper and parts of the doors. Fischer said he tried spraying the truck with a mixture of Tabasco sauce and cayenne pepper, but now he thinks the squirrel is attracted to the scent. "I have to have a sense of humor about this after so many years," he said. UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT Perry County (Arkansas) assistant jail administrator Abby Strange has lost her job and is facing felony criminal charges after she allowed inmate Sandra Rappold to leave her cell and go outside to vape marijuana on Sept. 24, Fox16-TV reported. Investigators said Strange disabled the cell door alarm and gave the keys to Rappold. A warning system alerted deputies that a door was ajar, and they quickly found both women. Strange also allegedly supplied the vape to Rappold. WRONG PLACE, WRONG TIME Claire Vickers, 46, and Barry Douglas, 44, were enjoying a drunken night out when, at 2 a.m., they decided to head over to the Aldershot Lido in Hampshire, England, slip under a fence and speed down a waterslide in the closed park. Unfortunately, a barrier blocks the exit from the slide after hours, and Vickers and Douglas both slammed into it, the Sun reported. Vickers' shin snapped and broke her skin, and every bone in her left foot was broken. Douglas broke his left leg and both ankles. "I looked over at Barry. He was in the fetal position and silent," Vickers said. "That's when I thought we were both going to die." After two hours of screaming and banging on the slide, Vickers and Douglas were rescued. "We're idiots—let that be a lesson," she said. "I'm still having nightmares one month on. The pain was unbearable." No charges were filed.

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THE LITIGIOUS SOCIETY Mauro Restrepo was hoping that Palos Verdes Estates, California, psychic Sophia Adams could help him remove a curse that was put on him by his ex-girlfriend, NBC Los Angeles reported. When he arrived at her business for his first session, Adams read his tarot cards and said he had "mala suerte," or bad luck. She told Restrepo that the curse could ruin him, his children and his marriage unless he paid her $5,100 to remove it. Restrepo paid her $1,000 as a down payment, but shockingly, she "did not in any way help (Restrepo's) marriage," alleged a lawsuit filed by Restrepo on Oct. 1 in Torrance Superior Court. He claims he has suffered sleepless nights, anxiety and anguish, and he's seeking at least $25,000 in compensatory and punitive damages. {in} From Andrews McMeel Syndication News Of The Weird © 2021 Andrews McMeel

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com October 14, 2021

IF YOU DRINK, DON’T DRIVE.

CONGRATULATIONS To the passionate people who go above and beyond to make Pensacola a better place for all of us, thank you! In unprecedented times, you rose to the challenge and your commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Here’s to you!

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Independent News | October 14, 2021 | inweekly.net

9/9/21 12:24 PM