Inweekly Oct 6 2022 Issue

best of the coast.

Rick Outzen

tor

Joani Delezen

Tim Bednarczyk

Castro, Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh , Jeremy Morrison, Sydney Robinson, C.S. Satterwhite, Tom St.

winners & losers

RISHY & QUINT STUDER Mayor Grover Rob inson presented Rishy and Quint Studer with a key to the city for the many ways the couple has helped improve Pensacola and have contributed to the city's quality of place. Mayor Robinson praised the Studers for bringing the Pensacola Blue Wahoos to the city, investing in the commu nity with Brain Bags for new families and starting EntreCon and CivicCon to encourage entrepre neurship and better civic conversations.

first grade. A few years later, Bob and Ann start ed volunteering as a Big Duo to share the com mitment and responsibility.

DR. JOE & SUSAN STORY

The Baptist Health Care Foundation honored for $1 million gift by naming the Story Medical Arts Building at the Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine for them. Dr. Story was a co-found er and developer of the Andrews Institute. He served as the first president of Andrews Research & Education Institute and chair of Andrews Sur gery Center. Susan Story recently retired as president and CEO of American Water Works and was formerly the president and CEO of Gulf Power Company. She served on the first Com munity Maritime Park Associates board and was instrumental in the creation of the Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center.

RYAN WIGGINS Influence Magazine named the former Inweekly intern to its list of 150 most influential people in Florida politics. Wig gins, a Pensacola native, is the chief of staff for The Lincoln Project. The magazine described her as "an experienced political pro in her own right and a steady influence on the Lincolneers."

Lewis Bear Jr., patriarch of the Lewis Bear Com pany, and Andy Marlette, former PNJ editorial cartoonist, made the honorable mentions list.

ROBERT HOYT & ANN YOSHIHASHI Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida an nounced Robert Hoyt and Ann Yoshihashi as the recipients of the 2022 Big of the Year award in Escambia County. The pair was selected to receive this honor due to their dedication to mentoring their Little Brother, T'Anthony. Bob started mentoring T'Anthony when he was in

JEFFREY LOVINGOOD Escambia Coun ty Commission approved the recommendation to promote the deputy purchasing manager to head the purchasing department. His responsi bilities as the purchasing director include over seeing the county's procurement program, de veloping purchasing policies and procedures, and implementing a long-term strategy for effi cient purchasing programs. County Administra tor Wes Moreno said, "In the short time he has been Deputy Purchasing Manager, Jeffrey has greatly increased the number of bids put out for procurement, allowing projects to be complet ed much quicker and more efficiently."

PORT OF PENSACOLA

The American As sociation of Port Authorities gave the port its Lighthouse Communication Award of Distinc tion for its "HOMEPORT: Welcome to Your Port" video. "Welcome to Your Port" is part of a new video series highlighting activities at the Port of Pensacola, produced by Hellcat Produc tions. The videos were created to engage the community by providing them a front-row seat to their waterfront economic engine, the Port of Pensacola. The AAPA Lighthouse Awards are the port industry's foremost recognition pro gram, recognizing ports for excellence in com munications, environmental improvement, fa cilities engineering and information technology.

FIRST CITY MURAL FEST

A group of com munity leaders and local muralists who believe that murals can add to the beauty of Pensaco la, promote public art and attract visitors have launched the First City Mural Fest. The pilot mural celebration will be held Saturday, Nov. 5, at Emerald Republic Brewing Company, 1414 W. Government St. The First City Mural Fest ju rors will select a mural proposed by a Pensaco la area artist to be painted on panels at Emer ald Republic.

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

Last December, the Pensacola City Council allocated $1.5 million for eight programs to combat homelessness. Mayor Grover Rob inson and others are looking to the Escambia County Commission to budget the $4.1 million it has set aside for the issue.

Some suggest the county should follow the city's lead and throw additional dollars at the programs the city council has endorsed, but there have been a few hiccups.

The first hiccup was we don't have an ac curate count of how many homeless people we have in Escambia County. John Johnson of Opening Doors of Northwest Florida says we are seeing a decline in homelessness. His point-in-time count has the count at 727 peo ple. However, Community Health Northwest Florida has seen its homeless patients increase this year. They have pegged the number around 7,600.

We need a better handle on how many peo ple we're talking about. Unfortunately, we aren't unique with this problem. Other cities also complain about the inaccuracy of the pointin-time counts and are devising much more proactive methods to determine their homeless populations. Why is the count so important? Federal and state funds are tied to it.

Another hiccup was the revelation of the inhumane conditions at Re-Entry Alliance Pensacola's Safe Outdoors Space camp behind Baptist Hospital. REAP, which was awarded $400,000, says it has fixed the problems, and city officials want to give the nonprofit a mul ligan. However, the Pensacola City Council has placed a moratorium on any further funds going to REAP until an audit is done.

REAP started as a program to help crimi nals who have served their prison time reenter society as productive citizens. Maybe caring for the homeless is outside their expertise. Time will tell.

The latest hiccup was uncovered by PNJ reporter Jim Little when he discovered that only about a third of the $1.5 million budgeted by the city council last year has been spent. Only the hotel voucher program spent close to its bud get, $175,857 of $180,000. After nine months, we have no idea whether the other seven pro grams are effective.

The Lotus Campaign was one touted by Mayor Grover Robinson. The mayor convinced the Homeless Reduction Task Force to allocate $425,000 for the program that had been suc cessful in Charlotte, N.C., where it developed a partnership with landlords, private investors and other nonprofits to help house people.

Payne and Beth Silverman, founding mem bers of the Lotus Campaign, spoke at CivicCon in June 2021. They talked about their Landlord Participation Program, which helps mitigate rental risks by having the Lotus Campaign as guarantor for a renter, agreeing to cover unpaid rent and tenant-caused damages. When the Silvermans spoke to the Pensacola crowd, the nonprofit had helped house 325 people in the Charlotte area in less than three years.

According to Little's report, the Pensacola version hasn't been nearly as successful. The city has expended only $40,209 on the pro gram. According to the mayor, the nonprofit hasn't successfully signed up landlords. A little transparency might have helped the media pressure landlords to cooperate more.

The Lakeview Center was allocated $300,000 for its Homeless Evaluation Assess ment Response (HEART) Team, which inter acts with people experiencing homelessness on the streets. However, the council wasn't told Lakeview was operating the HEART Team off a federal grant through Opening Doors North west Florida. According to Lakeview officials, the city won't be needed until the grant expires. Could those funds have been allocated else where to meet more pressing needs?

There are similar stories with the other programs. The Pensacola Dream Center has only tapped $53,750 of its $300,000 because of delays in opening its Canopy of Hope shel ter. Bright Bridges Minister just opened its men's shelter, four months later than planned, and has not received any of its $281,400. Chil dren's Home Society has started its social work internship program and has spent $39,646 of its $135,254.

We've rushed to solutions without the proper diagnosis and follow-up. The hiccups are warning signs that we celebrated too early, once again. {in} rick@inweekly.net

PERFECT SALE

Urban South Brewery an nounced last week that it had acquired Perfect Plain Brewing Co., the Garden Street business founded by mayor-elect D.C. Reeves. Urban South plans to use its well-established manu facturing and distribution capabilities to dis tribute Perfect Plain's craft beer throughout the Florida Panhandle.

Under the agreement, Urban South will as sume operations of the hospitality brand that owns and operates four concepts in Pensaco la—Perfect Plain Brewing Co., Garden & Grain, Perennial and The Well. The transaction offi cially closed on Saturday, Oct. 1, and all enti ties will retain their current brands, operations and staff.

"Our relationship with the Perfect Plain team started just as you would imagine—over a Perfect Plain beer and a day on the Pensacola Bay," said Jacob Landry, Urban South Brewery founder. "Through years of beer collaborations and brewery visits, we've developed a strong mutual respect."

Urban South Brewery intends to have Per fect Plain tap handles in bars and restaurants be fore the end of the year and Perfect Plain cans on shelves in Spring 2023. Urban South and Per fect Plain will work with The Lewis Bear Compa ny to distribute Perfect Plain beers to communi ties throughout the Florida Gulf Coast.

GREEN MONEY On Sept. 22, the Pensaco la and Perdido Bay Estuary Program (PPBEP) awarded about a quarter of a million dollars in community grants for the coming year during its second-annual community grant symposium.

The largest beneficiary of this new round of funding is the Blackwater Soil and Water Con servation District, which landed $50,000 for a no-till seed drill rental program. The program is designed to encourage and assist farmers with implementing no-till crop production, which should improve soil health, reduce erosion and improve water quality. Funding will be used to establish an equipment rental program that

farmers can tap for a minimal fee as they work to implement no-till practices.

Securing nearly as much funding, $49,998.99, is EscaRosa OysterCorps. Looking to expand and continue its Franklin's Promise/ Conservation Corps of the Forgotten and Em erald Coasts program, this organization will use the funding to continue efforts to protect lo cal shorelines by collecting and recycling oyster shells, growing native marsh plants and imple menting restoration projects.

Next in line is the University of West Flori da, which was awarded $39,326.75 for its Zoo plankton Ecology and Water Quality Monitoring of Perdido Bay project. This project will focus on monitoring ambient water quality in Perdi do Bay and its tributaries to study a decline in organisms that have a larval zooplankton stage and possible solutions to restoration efforts.

UWF also got $31,550 for a separate project examining stream bank erosion in the Pensaco la Bay and Perdido Bay watersheds. This project is of the data-gathering variety, with the fund ing being used to collect stream bank profiles at 30 sites within the watershed to calculate annu al erosion rates, with the information to be used when determining potential management and restoration efforts.

Northwest Florida State College was awarded $23,630.48 for its project centered on peripher al oyster mapping in Santa Rosa Sound and urban bayous of Pensacola Bay; peripheral oysters are important for water filtration and provide habitat for numerous aquatic species. Creating maps of the region's peripheral oyster distribution will give a clearer picture of population dynamics and also help guide future restoration efforts.

The PPBEP awarded $22,678.15 to the Na tional Wildlife Federation for a project that sig nals some new territory for the region: pro tecting manatees. In recent years an increasing number of manatees have been reported in lo cal waterways. This project aims to increase public awareness of this fact by educating wa terway users and coastal residents. With this grant, NWF will work to inform the public and,

in doing so, improve the prospects for both the manatees and their habitat.

To educate and immerse local students, the Santa Rosa County School District's Na varre Beach Marine Science Station was awarded $19,615.63 for its project entitled Em powering Students to Take Action: Aquat ic Care Team. As part of this project, 50 high school students will use scientific methods and technologies to explore the environmen tal variables and water quality in Santa Rosa Sound. The data collected during this project will be input into the Gulf Coast Ocean Obser vation Systems (GCOOS) database.

Finally, Escambia County was awarded $13,200 for a landscaping workshop and plant giveaway. This grant will build the Perdido Key Coastal Demonstration Garden, installed in April, and is designed to educate the public about native species of plants. In addition to the landscape workshop and native plant giveaway, this project—planned in partnership with the UF/IFAS Escambia Extension office—will also update the landscaping guide created this year to include a list of local nurseries which carry native species.

FETSKO CLARIFIES District 2 Escambia County School Board member Paul Fetsko said on WCOA that he didn't want to discuss termi nating Superintendent Tim Smith's contract at the Sept. 20 board meeting. He requested the school board discuss a no-confidence vote.

"My initial request was that I asked to have a vote of confidence or no confidence, okay?" said Fetsko."And it came out printed a differ ent way than I had intended. Sometimes those things happen."

At the meeting, fellow board member Bill Slayton complained that he learned of the ad dition second-hand and then motioned for the agenda to be approved without a discussion to terminate Smith's contract. Board member Lau ra Edler seconded his motion, which passed 3-2, with Board Chairman Kevin Adams and Fetsko on the losing side.

Fetsko explained, "What I'd like to know is after we, as a board, listened to the hours of parents speaking at public forum, where oth ers were feeling about what direction we need to give to the superintendent in terms of deal ing with issues that seem to keep coming back— in terms of some either misunderstanding, mis communication or lack of communication with him and the staff."

Fetsko continued, "And there are things that are going on that are causing a lot of dismay in the community, and I think that we need to find a way to impress upon the superintendent that these things need to be addressed and they need to be addressed now."

The school board member said he has a good relationship with Dr. Smith, but he saw the add-on item has a chance for the full board to discuss the superintendent's performance.

"I have had a great relationship," Fetsko shared. "I've offered him my past experienc es and tried to help him and guide him and give him some understanding of the way things have been handled or could be handled. But I always end it with this, 'I'll give you the advice. You could either take it or not, Tim; you are the su perintendent.' Now, when the five board mem bers come together, at least three of us say, 'Hey, Tim, you need to go in a different direc tion.' That's a different matter."

NEW GB CROSSOVER According to Mayor Cherry Fitch, the city of Gulf Breeze has been notified that grants have been approved to im prove Shoreline Park South and build a new pe destrian crossover on Highway 98 that will also accommodate golf carts.

The crossover has been designed to be built at the end of Shoreline Drive and will land near the Publix parking lot. Fitch said, "We've worked with FDOT, and they have moved us up on the priority list. So it's going to be an over pass that would be ADA compliant as well as the size that golf carts and any vehicles could go back and forth."

The city of Gulf Breeze has also received

$1.2 million for park improvements. The may or said, "At Shoreline Park, it's going to be a to tal redo. We're going to add an outdoor kitch en, rehab all the boat ramps, have an ice house, a grinder station and put in floating docks that will be easily accessible for kayaking and wa ter sports."

While the crossover might take time to complete, the city has already received the park improvement funds. Fitch said, "They saw our plans and ideas and actually gave us the money now. We're going to be able to start that imme diately, so that was huge."

REPURPOSED CALL CENTER Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR) has announced a major expansion effort is underway to provide ITAD customers with improved solutions for all decommissioned IT assets.

"The refurbishment center expansion and labor force increases are necessary to align ATR with growing volumes of repairable IT assets coming from our southern regions," said Ken Ehresman, Chief Operations Officer for ATR.

ATR plans to convert 300+ cubicles into state-of-the-art testing and repair production lines capable of refurbishing and reselling mil lions of technology assets annually. Addition ally, ATR will utilize the call center's training fa cilities and office multiplex to expand mobile device and telecommunications platforms.

"This investment demonstrates ATR's commitment to improve efficiencies, reduce liability and increase our clients' returns," con tinued Ehresman.

ATR continues to offer customers access to one of the nation's largest networks of certi fied electronics recycling facilities. Additional ly, ATR offers the industry's most secure chain of custody via an electronically tracked and GPS-enabled fleet of vehicles. This includes remote inventory, white glove services and de struction capabilities.

The former call center was built in 2001 to serve the needs of a large financial institution headquartered in nearby Alabama. ATR is ac cepting applications at 5060 Commerce Park Circle in Pensacola at the new facility, beginning Sept. 27, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., for all hourly and management positions.

For more information on the products and services offered by ATR or to explore a career, please visit atrecycle.com/jobs.

GAETZ RUMORS Pensacola native Ryan Wig gins has been named to Influence Magazine's Top 150 People in Florida Politics. The former Inweekly intern is the chief of staff for The Lin coln Project. On WCOA, Inweekly publish er Rick Outzen asked her about the Washing ton Post article that the DOJ was not pursuing sex with a minor charges against Congressman Matt Gaetz.

"From what we are hearing, the witness es, the women, have been back and forth on

their stories, and that's not accidental," Wig gins shared. "That's intentional; it was inten tional to make them unreliable witnesses. So he may get away with this one, and that's the way the cookie crumbles. It's been a long two years waiting to see what was going to happen. So either way, that's the word on the street. So we shall see."

Were Hilary Clinton's emails found at Mara-Lago? She said, "They didn't. It's funny they found all of these other documents that have been declassified with your mind. But no, it's funny Hillary's emails are nowhere to be found."

CIVIL RIGHTS ICON The Equity Project Alli ance, in partnership with the Delta Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast, is hon ored to welcome Elizabeth Eckford, a member of the Little Rock Nine, to Pensacola. Eckford will recount her experience as she and eight other students integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957 at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6, at the Pensacola State College's Ash more Auditorium, 1100 College Blvd., Bldg. 8. To register, visit bit.ly/3LM6DSY.

OPIOID HOT SPOTS

An analysis by a Uni versity of West Florida team identified areas in the contiguous United States where suicide and opioid death rates are high and where the deaths overlap. The observations have the op portunity to assist health agencies in these ar eas in identifying conditions that may be driv ing an unusually high rate of suicides and/or opioid deaths.

Dr. Raid Amin, a distinguished Universi ty professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics; Dr. Rodney Guttmann, professor in the Department of Biology; and former UWF graduate students Misty Uher, Matthew Holley and Bradly Rivera-Muniz studied suicide deaths and associations with several factors, including opioids deaths. Their research examined deaths in years 2000-2019. Out of nine significant clusters, six were bivariate (suicide and opioids), while three were only opioids.

The maps showed that suicide rates in the Panhandle might be "high," but they're not as high as what is seen in most of the west ern part of the U.S. The research showed that clusters of counties with very high opioid mor tality rates are also clusters of counties with very high rates of suicide and are associated with each other.

"These results can provide a scientif ic framework based on surveillance, allowing health agencies to intervene and reduce ele vated rates of suicides in selected counties in the U.S.," Amin said. "The study is limited due to the resolution of the data at the county level, and some covariate data was unavailable for the entire period of the study."

For more information on the UWF Hal Mar cus College of Science and Engineering, visit uwf.edu/hmcse. {in}

best of t he coast.

twenty twenty-two.

It's the first Thursday of October, and if you're an Inweekly regular, you know what that means. That's right—it's finally time for us to reveal the results of our annual Best of the Coast poll.

Just like we have every July for the last 21 years, we published the ballot, and, thankfully, you all keep showing up, voting and telling us what you love about this sweet little city we call home.

Because of you, Best of the Coast keeps growing, and we couldn't be more proud of what it's become. This time around, over 15,000 votes were cast, and hundreds of local businesses got a shout-out. From Palafox Market vendors to food trucks to long-stand

ing staples, reading this year's winners list really showcases just how much small business es shape Pensacola. We hope you see some of your personal favorites in the mix and maybe even discover a few new places to try, too.

Of course, we're only able to produce Best of the Coast and afford the print bill on this very large issue you're holding right now because of ad dollars. So to each and every business that said yes to advertising, thank you. And even this 88-page mega issue isn't enough, so make sure you tune in next week for Rest of the Best—where we celebrate the runners-up. {in}

Photos—Geoff Peck

Direction—Joani Delezen

Special thanks to our models—Devin, Anna, Alena, Renee & Tim + Savannah with Gilded Pensacola, Susan Campbell Jewelry & Kellie Coatney

DOWNTOWN

BEST NONPROFIT

Winner: Friends of the Escambia County Animal Shelter

Gulf Coast Kid's House

Pensacola Habitat for Humanity Phoenix Rising Rescue

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Winner: Winter Wonder Ride (onbikes Pensacola)

AWKO Justice Jog (Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz)

Brunch & Bubbles (Gulf Coast Kid's House) Heroes Among Us (Marine Corps League)

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union

Gulf Winds Credit Union

Lakeview Center

University of West Florida

BEST BOSS

Winner: Chris Rutledge (Gulf Winds Credit Union)

Allison Hill (Lakeview Center)

Stacey Kostevicki (Gulf Coast Kid's House)

Justin Witkin (Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz)

BEST COMMUNITY LEADER

Winner: Quint Studer

Sandra Donaldson Michael Kimberl Sue Straughn

BEST RISING LEADER

Winner: Katie Dougherty Debi Janea

commun ity. media. culture.

Whitney Lucas Quanda "Q'Lala" Pace

BEST POLITICIAN

Winner: Michelle Salzman

Ann Hill

Lumon May

Grover Robinson

BEST ADVOCACY/ACTIVIST GROUP

Winner: Strive Food Not Bombs Pensacola Pensacola Dream Defenders Sunday's Child

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

Winner: Pensacola Beach

A Blue Wahoos Game Downtown Palafox Market

BEST DAY TRIP

Winner: Fairhope 30A/Seaside

Destin New Orleans

BEST ANNUAL EVENT

Winner: Blue Angels Pensacola Beach Air Show

Ballet Pensacola's "The Nutcracker"

Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival Pensacola Children's Chorus' "Christmas on the Coast"

BEST FOOD EVENT

Winner: Pensacola Seafood Festival

Pensacola Crawfish Festival Pensacola EggFest Pensacola Habitat Food Truck Festival

BEST PARADE

Winner: Pensacola Grand

Mardi Gras Parade

Grand Fiesta Parade

Krewe of Wrecks Mardi Gras Parade Pensacola Christmas Parade

BEST REGULAR/REOCCURRING EVENT

Winner: Gallery Night

Bands on the Beach Bike Pensacola Slow Ride Palafox Market

BEST FREE THING TO DO

Winner: National Naval Aviation Museum Bands on the Beach Bike Pensacola Slow Ride Pensacola Beach

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Winner: East Hill Cordova Park North Hill Scenic Heights

BEST PENSACOLA LANDMARK

Winner: Graffiti Bridge Fort Pickens

Pensacola Beach Water Tower Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

BEST PUBLIC PARK

Winner: Bayview Park

Alabama Square

Veterans Memorial Park

Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park

BEST PET-FRIENDLY PARK

Winner: Bayview Park

Pensacola Beach Dog Park

Roger Scott Dog Park

Shoreline Bark Park

BEST PLAYGROUND

Winner: Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park

Bayview Park

Benny Russell Park

Hitzman-Optimist Park

BEST PALAFOX MARKET VENDOR

Winner: The Crafted Makerie

Annie's Naked Cookies

Jade Tree Succulents

Mrs. Jones Cold Brew

BEST MAKERS/CRAFT MARKET

Winner: Palafox Market

Odd Colony Brewing Company

Pensacola Arts Market Pensacola Community Market

BEST REASON TO ATTEND A BLUE WAHOOS GAME

Winner: The View Family Fun Fireworks Roach Run

community. media. culture.

BEST REASON TO ATTEND

AN ICE FLYERS GAME

Winner: Big Moose

Chuck-A-Puck

Family Fun

Fights

BEST YOUTH SPORTS/REC PROGRAM

Winner: Southern Youth Sports Association

Greater Pensacola Figure Skating Club

Northeast Pensacola Wildcats

Pensacola Redd Diamondz

BEST DANCE STUDIO

Winner: Ballet Pensacola

LaBelle Performing Arts

Life's A Dance Studio

Mixon Magic Performing Arts

BEST AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITY

Winner: Pensacola Children's Chorus

Ballet Pensacola

First City Art Center

Neighborhood Children's Theatre

BEST SUMMER CAMP

Winner: UWF's Explore Summer Camps

Ballet Pensacola

Neighborhood Children's Theatre

Pensacola Children's Chorus

BEST PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY

Winner: Pensacola MESS Hall

Dreamland Skate Center

Pensacola Children's Museum Sky Zone Trampoline Park

BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY

Winner: Sue Straughn Hannah Holtsclaw

Roy Jones Jr.

Bubba Watson

BEST TV STATION

Winner: WEAR Blab TV

WALA

WSRE

BEST RADIO STATION

Winner: Cat Country 98.7 NewsRadio 92.3/1620

Real Women Radio

WUWF 88.1

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY

Winner: Brent Lane (Cat Country 98.7) Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620)

Linda "Sonshine" Moorer (Magic 106.1) Quanda "Q'Lala" Pace (Real Women Radio)

BEST MORNING RADIO SHOW

Winner: The Cat Pack Morning Show (Cat Country 98.7)

NPR Morning Edition (WUWF 88.1)

Pensacola Morning News with Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620)

REAL News with Rick Outzen (WCOA 1370)

BEST PODCAST

Winner: Some People Suck Beeyond Buzzed

The G Spot Podcast Stay On The Line

BEST WEBSITE/BLOG

Winner: Visit Pensacola (visitpensacola.com)

Cat Country 98.7 (catcountry987.com)

Pensacola Mom Collective (pensacola.momcollective.com)

The Simplified Blog (emilyley.com)

BEST PERSON OR BUSINESS TO FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM

Winner: Pensacola Vibes

(@pensacolavibes)

The Crafted Makerie (@thecraftedmakerie)

Sarah Coleman Photography (@sarahcolemanphoto)

Tiny Observations (@tinyobservations)

BEST BUSINESS TO "LIKE" ON FACEBOOK

Winner: All Things Emerald Coast Downtown Pensacola

Pensacola Mom Collective Pensacola Vibes

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

Easy Going Gallery

Quayside Art Gallery

BEST ARTIST

WINNER: Poppy Garcia Austin Garcia Cindy Mathis Eniko Ujj

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Winner: Sarah Coleman Kelsei Frazier Sean Mullins Andrew Velasco

BEST MUSIC VENUE

Winner: Vinyl Music Hall

Easy Going Gallery

Hunter Amphitheater at the Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park Paradise Bar & Grill

BEST BAND

Winner: Stormfolk

Ben Loftin & The Family Faux/Fox Surrounder

BEST CONCERT/CONCERT SERIES

Winner: Bands on the Beach

Beginning of Summer Beach Bummer V Blues Angel Music's Blues on the Bay EmoProm (Vinyl Music Hall)

BEST THEATRE PRODUCTION

Winner: A Chorus Line (Pensacola Little Theatre) Broadway in Pensacola (Saenger Theatre) Disney's Moana Jr. (Pensacola Little Theatre)

The Wizard of Oz (Ballet Pensacola)

BEST COMEDIAN

Winner: Olivia Searcy Andrew Ferrara

Kitty Get a Job Delisia Nicholas

community. media. culture.

BALLET PENSACOLA

400 S. Jefferson St., balletpensacola.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our academic and artistic staff have impeccable qualifications and genuinely care for the children and dancers. We provide quality dance education and performances to our lo cal community equivalent to what bigger cities would receive. We are also proud our reputation is growing internationally.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our history and foundation here in Pen sacola inspire us. We have been a staple in the arts community since 1978 and constantly want to bring better performances to Pensacola.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Dance is art, and art imitates life. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are excited about the growing diversity and inclusivity in Pensacola and the surrounding areas. We are also excited about our 45-year anniversary coming up. Pensacola is constantly growing, and we can't wait to share our passion with Pensacola visitors and locals.

Answers by: Ballet Pensacola Staff

CAT COUNTRY 98.7 AND NEWSRADIO 92.3/AM1620

7251 Plantation Road, catcountry987.com and newsradio923.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? Our commitment to our listeners

and clients sets us apart. Since day one, our goal is to deliver quality on-air and to our com munities. Being locally owned and operated—a true anomaly in broadcasting today—also sets us apart.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We live here, work here, worship here and play here. We are inspired to be the best business neighbors for our listeners and clients and to do what we can to help make our com munities stronger.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We serve our communities with compelling and informative content and help our clients suc ceed through partnerships.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? A stable and renewed confidence in our economy. For our city and beyond, continued growth and opportunity for emerging business.

Answers by: Kevin King, Operations Manager

CITY OF PENSACOLA PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

222 W. Main St., playpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? We have the incredible opportu nity to serve an amazing city. The input and support we gain from our community directly shape and move the programs and services we provide each day.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? This is and will always be our citizens.

Thank You PensacolaThank You Pensacola

Pensacola is community first and a place where your voice matters. Whether via public meeting, a spearheaded effort, engagement via social media, 311 or a Best of the Coast vote, your voice is heard, and it inspires us to give our best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

It's time to get out and play.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Pensacola has seen exponential growth in the past year, and we look forward to continuing to grow with our city. In our world, this means continuing our efforts to enhance our services and bring new playgrounds, attractions, programs and activities that citizens will love and enjoy for years to come.

Answers by: Deja Dowdell, Marketing Coordinator

DOWNTOWN

IMPROVEMENT BOARD

downtownpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? Downtown Pensacola is an integral part of our community, not only generating sales and creating jobs but also contributing to the local quality of life. Through the DIB, down town property owners pay an extra tax to cover the expense of providing services beyond what the local government offers.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Just look at photos of the downtown district from the mid-1980s compared to today. Downtown Pensacola was named "Florida's Greatest Place," and Palafox Street was named one of America's "10 Great Streets." We are here

today because of the vision, hard work and in vestment of many diverse stakeholders.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The DIB is making downtown Pensacola a bet ter place to live, work and play for everyone. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to doing even more to improve the downtown experience for everyone, such as adding public restrooms, expanding Palafox Market and continuing our progress in keeping the downtown district clean and safe for everyone who lives, works and visits Downtown Pensacola.

Answers by: Walker Wilson, Executive Director

FIESTA PENSACOLA

125 S. Alcaniz St., Ste. 3, fiestapensacola.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Fiesta has been a part of the Pensacola community for 74 years. We take pride in cel ebrating our founding and growth over the past seven decades. We welcome everyone from our community to be a part of the Fiesta story. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The Pensacola community inspires us to do our best with every event we implement. We work with community members and volun teers year-round to accomplish our objective, our mission, of celebrating our heritage, pro moting tourism and building pride in Pensacola through festival activities.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We celebrate our city's heritage, promote tour

RUNNER UP BEST SUMMER CAMP RUNNER UP BEST ANNUAL EVENT ~ “CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST”

community. media. culture.

ism and build pride in Pensacola through festive

quality

life.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to the growth of our city, new community partners, continuing the celebra tion of our founding and welcoming new faces to our organization.

Answers by: Margaret-Anne West, Director of Events

FRIENDS OF THE ESCAMBIA COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER

ecasfriends.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Friends is dedicated to working with the shelter staff and our volunteers to better the lives of the animals at the Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our fosters, volunteers and supporters inspire us to continue our work for the animals. Rescue is hard work, but with their support, we continue to do our best for the dogs and cats in need.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are a volunteer-based nonprofit organi zation, dedicated to improving the lives of the shelter animals.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? With so many animals in need in our area, we know our community of rescuers will continue to advocate for the voiceless and work to improve

their lives. Our community will continue to edu cate on the importance of spay and neuter and encourage people to get their pets altered.

Answers by: Kim Rainer, President

GALLERY NIGHT PENSACOLA

gallerynightpensacola.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Gallery Night's monthly events bring many different walks of life to downtown Pensacola. This merging creates an environment demon strating our area's diversity and unique culture. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The opportunity to create those un forgettable moments at our events drives us to bring our best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Our events inspire culture and engagement while showcasing various practices of art in an entertaining environment welcoming to all.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to our events' future growth by hosting more local artists, adding more familyfriendly activities and collaborating with other local organizations to bring more arts experi ences to the street.

Answers by: Jacqueline Tarver, Executive Director

MICHELLE SALZMAN

3101 W. Michigan Ave., Ste. G, myfloridahouse.gov

What do you think sets you and your business apart? As a servant leader of 20 years in this

community, I'm certain I bring a different per spective to the Florida House. Spending my years serving various organizations has given me true insight to what our community really needs.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The people of my community are what really inspires me. We have some of the most giving people in Northwest Florida.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The People's Conservative—I am proud to serve all of my community, not just the ones with an R.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to continuing the momentum of our mental health task force, the safe walkways conversation, and my advocacy for children, veterans, elderly and the disabled.

Answers by: Michelle Salzman, State Representative

PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S CHORUS

46 E. Chase St., pensacolasings.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? PCC is one of a few arts organizations in the area that singularly focuses on children and youth so we might grow their talent to shape bright, inquisitive and compassionate leaders for the future. Plus, they sound and look good while they do it.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our society is one of many labels. At PCC, the only one we value is "potential." Re gardless of how a child presents themselves at

first, there are limitless possibilities about what they can do. At PCC, we set the bar high, and our singers always exceed it.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Courage and confidence in every note. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

New for this season, each of PCC's monthly programs costs as little as $15 a month. We also have launched a network of neighbor hood choirs in seven different locations across Northwest Florida. We hope to bring 150-plus new singers through these choirs each year.

Answers by: Alex Gartner, Artistic and Executive Director

PENSACOLA MESS HALL

418 E. Wright St., pensacolamesshall.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The MESS Hall's mission is to inspire curiosity, experimentation and creative problem solving. Visits are engaging for the whole family. While you will likely learn something, we hope you will leave inspired to keep asking questions and make your own discoveries.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Watching learners—whether visitors, kids on field trips, participants at outreach programs or even our own staff—have "a-ha" moments when they discover something new or solve a new challenge.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

All hands-on science for all.

community. media. culture.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

We will host the Smithsonian's Bias Inside Us traveling exhibit next summer. The content will challenge visitors, and hosting a traveling exhib it will be a new experience for the MESS Hall.

Answers by: Megan Pratt, Executive Director

PENSACOLA OPERA

75 S. Tarragona St., pensacolaopera.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Pensacola Opera is Northwest Florida's premier opera company. We focus on musical storytelling through professional opera produc tions and also work to make opera accessible and digestible by offering free concerts and performances out in the community. Opera is so powerful; it combines many forms of art into one beautiful masterpiece.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The nature of opera itself always in spires us to present our best. It's an art that takes years of training and practice in order to look and sound effortless on stage. We work every day to inspire our community through powerful musical storytelling by providing the best quality artistry that we can.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our mission is to enrich the culture of Pensaco la through professional opera productions, arts education and community initiatives.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? This

is Pensacola Opera's 40th anniversary season.

We are excited to celebrate four decades of op era in Pensacola with a powerhouse season and kick it off with our Forty Forward concert this fall. The arts are fabulously strong in Pensacola, and we are honored to be a part of that.

Answers by: Alex Hilkey, Marketing and Communications Director

PENSACOLA VIBES

pensacolavibes.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Being a one-person powerhouse. Han dling all online orders, graphic design, videog raphy and ensuring at least one person smiles because of my work daily.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The constant flow of appreciation from my followers inspires me to give them the best representation of Pensacola through my own eyes.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The soul of Pensacola.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? The entirely separate northbound and southbound bridges for Three Mile Bridge to be complete.

Answers by: Sean Charles Mullins, Owner

SANTA ROSA ISLAND AUTHORITY

1 Via De Luna Drive, sria-fla.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? We take pride in the quality of our

many services and strive to make Pensacola Beach a place of comfort and satisfaction for locals and tourists.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The outturn of our hard work and dedi cation to the community give us the satisfaction and inspiration to be our best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Our mission is to preserve our natural resources, manage growth and promote eco-friendly tour ism in a clean, safe community environment.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to furthering the exposure of the Santa Rosa Island Authority through commu nity involvement and welcoming record num bers for tourism by promoting progression and diversity in our city.

Answers by: AJ Powell, Assistant Manager of Human Resources and Events Coordinator

SARAH COLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

518 N. Ninth Ave., sarahcolemanphotography.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The relationships I build with each of my clients takes what I do far beyond simply snapping photos. I realize the weight of what I do; capturing people's most important and intimate moments is not something I take lightly. Developing that rela tionship is key to telling stories well. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The people I create with and for inspire

me to continue to be better than the artist I was the day before. The only person I compete with is myself. I never want to feel as though I've made it. There's always more to learn, always room to grow.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Capturing life as it happens.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I moved into my second studio downtown in June of this year and am looking forward to continuing to create within the studio and of fer it to other creatives to do the same. I really want to cultivate a sense of community around the space.

Answers by: Sarah Coleman, Owner and Photographer

SOME PEOPLE SUCK PODCAST

youtube.com/c/somepeoplesuckpodcast

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our authenticity. We are who we are— unapologetically us. We aren't trying to be any one else but ourselves.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The people we have on, the people hustling to make a living and anyone doing any thing passionately inspires us.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Two silly geese having a silly goose time. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? To

continue to grow and see where this takes us. Life is a roller coaster, and we are not strapped in. Maybe we should hold with care, but our hands are busy in the air.

Answers by: Kodie Croll, Host, and Hylton Davis, Co-Host

UWF'S FLORIDA EXPLORE CAMPS

11000 University Parkway, uwf.edu/explorecamps

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? Our camps are special because we give campers opportunities to learn and ex plore topics they are interested in while having tons of fun. We have camp themes like LEGO Robotics, Broadway Bound, Explore Hogwarts and everything in between. Any child can find a camp that excites them.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The campers inspire us. Seeing their excitement and interest during the camp day is motivating. Listening to them tell their parents about an experiment they did or running out at the end of the day to show a project they made is a special part of the day.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Growth through exploration, learning and unique experiences.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We had our highest enrollment ever last summer, and we look forward to continuing to grow. We also look forward to bringing back our fall and spring camp sessions this year so we can offer as many camp opportunities as possible for the STEAM-loving kids in our community.

Answers by: Valerie Taylor, Director, and Claire Minneman, Camps and Community Outreach Coordinator

UWF HISTORIC TRUST

120 Church St., historicpensacola.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Since 1970, our organization has been committed to collecting, preserving, interpret ing and sharing the history of Northwest Flor ida. With our 9-acre museum complex in the heart of downtown Pensacola, we continue to shape the culture, history and ongoing growth of our city.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We live in such a unique and histori cally transformational region. Doing our best means representing our city to the best of our abilities and showcasing the great things our community has to offer.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Im merse yourself in Northwest Florida history, cul ture and art in the heart of downtown Pensacola. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to our growing selection of program ming opportunities, educational offerings and community events scheduled for the next year.

Answers by: Claire Stewart, UWF Historic Trust Director of Marketing

VISIT PENSACOLA, INC.

1401 E. Gregory St., visitpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The opportunity to tell real stories about

our community. We've created an authentic voice that influences travelers' decisions to visit.

We know our role's importance in a visitor's experience and the impact tourism brings to the local economy.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The local community and team at Visit Pensacola. Together, we tell the destination's story and create lasting memories for guests visiting our home. To know our work is helping to shape a visitor's experience and drive busi ness to our community is more than enough inspiration to be the best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Storytellers who inspire visitors and locals alike to experience why Pensacola is the way to beach and so much more.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Visit Pensacola looks forward to another successful year in tourism and sharing with the world what makes Pensacola the way to beach. We can't wait to tell our community's stories, what resi dents love most and what makes our destina tion the best place to visit, work, play and live.

Answers by: Nicole Stacey, Director of Marketing and Communications

WOLFGANG, LLC

wolfgangparkandbrews.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? Being Florida's first official dog event-planning business, we strive to create unique events that put your dog as the guest of honor. We love to pet Pensacola dogs and put together events where your mutt can strut.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Dogs. We are inspired by our "gang" of five dogs and our dog-loving community. We want to be the best dog owners for our dogs, so we want to create ways for others to be their best, too.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are a dog business that is human friendly. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Our continued growth. We have bigger things in the works that will be huge for the dog-loving Pen sacola community, and it will continue to help Pensacola grow and support small businesses. We also look forward to continuing to create unique activities for your pups.

Answers by: Jessica and Kim Wolford, CEO and Owner

M I C H E L L E

SALZMAN

Winner Best Politician Thank you for your vote!

health. wellness.

BEST GYM

Winner: Regymen Fitness

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

Burn Boot Camp

Coastal Fitness Training

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Winner: Jake Schwartz (Burn Boot Camp)

Hanni Fenton (Coastal Fitness Training)

Jenn Jordan (Regymen Fitness)

Candace Rorrer (Essentially Fit)

BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO

Winner: Disko Lemonade

Pure Pilates

Ride Society

Wild Lemon

BEST YOGA

Winner: Disko Lemonade

URU Yoga & Beyond

Wild Hare Wellness

Yoga Abode

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Donna Dickey (Yoga Abode)

Briana Knight (Disko Lemonade)

Andrea McMillian (Wild Hare Wellness)

Justin Nutt (Community Health Northwest Florida)

BEST PILATES

Winner: Wild Lemon Club Pilates

Disko Lemonade Pure Pilates

BEST FITNESS CLASSES

Winner: Regymen Fitness Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA Disko Lemonade Ride Society

BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Amelia Murphy (Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA) Angie Chapa (Disko Lemonade) Leah Seacrest (Regymen Fitness) Rachel Smith (Wild Lemon)

BEST BOOTCAMP

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

BEST WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM

Winner: Ideal Weight Loss

Ascension Sacred Heart

Surgical Weight-Loss Center

ProHealth Medical Care Woodlands Weight Loss Center

BEST RUNNING CLUB

Winner: Running Wild 200 South Bar & Kitchen Pensacola Runners Association Seville Quarter

BEST 5K

Winner: McGuire's St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K

Bayou Hills Run Double Bridge Run Great Pumpkin Run

BEST PLACE TO WALK/RUN

Winner: Downtown East Hill Pensacola Beach University of West Florida Campus Trails

BEST PLACE TO RIDE YOUR BIKE

Winner: Ride Society

Blackwater Heritage State Trail Pensacola Bay Bridge Pensacola Beach

BEST HOSPITAL

Winner: Ascension Sacred Heart Baptist Hospital

Gulf Breeze Hospital

HCA Florida West Hospital

BEST GENERAL CARE PHYSICIAN

Winner: Dr. Hillary Hultstrand (Woodlands Medical Specialists)

Dr. Charles Blay (Woodlands Medical Specialists)

Dr. George Smith (Community Health Northwest Florida)

Dr. Adam Tarnosky (Ascension Medical Group)

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Winner: Dr. Jason Stern (Stern Chiropractic Clinic)

Dr. David Edge (Edge Family Chiropractic)

Dr. Craig Henry (Henry Chiropractic)

Dr. Lindsey Jeudevine (Olde Seville Chiropractic)

BEST DENTIST

Winner: Dr. Naomi Norton (Summit Dental)

Dr. Kaitlin Forshee (Advanced Dental Concepts)

Dr. Thuy Nguyen (East Hill Dental Care)

Dr. Ben White (White Smiles General Dentistry)

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Winner: Dr. Ben Fishbein (Fishbein Orthodontics)

Dr. Clay Sims (Sims Orthodontics)

Dr. Edwin Witcher (Smart Smiles Orthodontics)

Dr. Greg Woodfin (Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics)

BEST ENDODONTIST

Winner: Dr. Josh Todd (Elite Endodontics)

Dr. Phillip Bell (Pensacola Center for Endodontics)

Dr. Thomas Lyons (Pensacola Endodontics)

Dr. Sidney Rosenthal (Pensacola Endodontics)

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

Winner: Dr. Amy Foland (Pensacola Pediatrics)

Dr. P. Michelle Grier-Hall (Community Health Northwest Florida)

Dr. Heather Lenga (Pensacola Pediatrics)

Dr. Randall Reese (Pensacola Pediatrics)

BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL

Winner: Scott Durrance, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services)

Tamara Driskell, LMHC (Arya Therapy Services)

David Josephs, Psy.D. (Lakeview Center) Roshni Patel, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services)

BEST OB/GYN

Winner: Dr. Brian Sontag (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Jairan L. Duke-Elmore (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Erika Schneider (Baptist Medical Group) Dr. Lisa Tucker (Santa Rosa Medical Group)

BEST OPTOMETRIST

Winner: Dr. Lindsay Durtschi (Midtown Dental & Vision)

Dr. Mary Charbonneau (Community Health Northwest Florida)

Dr. Jennifer Ham Major (Clarkson Eyecare Nine Mile)

Dr. Gene Terrezza (Terrezza Optical)

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Winner: Dr. Amy Pote Watson (Pensacola Dermatology)

Dr. Sean Branch (Proper Dermatology) Dr. Danielle Farrior (Medical Center Clinic) Dr. Kevin Welch (Welch SkinCare Center)

BEST PLASTIC SURGERY

Winner: Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery Derek Jones Facial Plastic Surgery Restore Plastic Surgery Shaddix Plastic Surgery

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY Winner: Stark Performance Physical Therapy Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Body Better Stern Chiropractic Clinic

BEST PHARMACY Winner: First City Drugs Community Health Northwest Florida East Hill Pharmacy Everwell Specialty Pharmacy

BEST WALK-IN CLINIC Winner: ProHealth Medical Care Ascension Sacred Heart Urgent Care Baptist Urgent Care Community Health Northwest Florida

YOGA

APEX PSYCHIATRIC

308 S. Jefferson St., apexpsychiatricservices.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Scott Durrance 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 fee-for-service model.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Hearing our clients' success stories and how Apex played such an integral part in their success is what keeps us inspired. To be such an integral part of anyone's 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 one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Thrive. Don't just survive.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? As a Marine Infantryman, Scott likes to take an ag gressive approach to mental health treatment. Because of that, he will continue to expand access to novel and potentially life-changing treatments, such as ketamine and Spravato for treatment-resistant depression and other difficult-to-treat conditions.

Answers by: Abby Durrance, Practice Manager

ASCENSION SACRED HEART

5151 N. Ninth Ave., healthcare.ascension.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Ascension Sacred Heart is dedicated to transformation through innovation across the continuum of care. As part of the leading nonprof it and Catholic health systems in the U.S., we are committed to delivering compassionate, personal ized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Sacred Heart's faith-based mission has been its driving force since we were founded by the Daughters of Charity. We are dedicated to spiritually centered, holistic care that sustains and improves the health of individuals and com munities we are privileged to serve.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to the most vulnerable.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? To ensure we anticipate and meet the needs of those we serve. We are working diligently to increase access to high-quality care in a conve nient setting, build on our reputation of clinical excellence by expanding our service offering across the region and investing in technology enhancements to improve outcomes.

Answers by: Justin Labrato, Chief Operating Officer

DISKO LEMONADE

120 S. Jefferson St., diskolemonade.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The No. 1 thing we hear is how welcoming the studio and staff are. There is no pressure or judgment at Disko, and I love that we attract a diverse crowd. It's all about feeling your best, and those goals are different for each student.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The community and students we serve.

If we can help someone navigate a stressful day, reduce back pain or feel strong and confident, that is what it is all about—making a difference.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

You have two hands—one for helping yourself and the other for helping others.

Thanks for sweating with us, Pensacola!

Winner Best Gym &

Fitness

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Going to interpret this question differently and say, I would like to see the city better support small businesses. For example, could employees of the businesses downtown get a discounted parking pass? There are many changes that could be made that would make a big difference for so many people.

Answers by: Briana Knight, Owner

ELITE ENDODONTICS

5016 Grande Drive, Unit 101, endodontistpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We strive to create the most welcoming atmosphere for our patients while providing highquality endodontic care in a state-of-the-art facil ity. Our focus on providing excellent customer service is what sets us apart.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? God has put us in a position to create a lasting impact on our community and team. That's what inspires us to show up and be our best every day. Even though we may do root canals, we can still touch people's lives and create a positive experience.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Changing the perception about root canals. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are excited to announce we recently moved into a brand-new office space, which will allow us to expand our business and offer educational events to the dental community. We look forward to con tinuing to partner with local nonprofits like Rally Foundation and Health and Hope Clinic.

Answers by: Dr. Josh Todd, Owner and Endodontist

FIRST CITY DRUGS

6005 College Parkway, Ste. 1,

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are a locally owned, independent pharmacy. We pride ourselves on taking the time to get to know our patients by providing traditional and pet prescriptions, compounding services, vaccinations and charitable gifts. We created a space from the ground up to provide the exact care our patients deserve.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We both grew up in Pensacola and feel a connection to our community. We like to know our patients' names, their stories and how we can help them best. We genuinely care for each of our patients and the stories they bring.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are an old-time pharmacy with a modern twist. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are excited to continue supporting our local commu nity, events, schools and other businesses. As we grow to reach more patients, we'll be connected to the city in even more exciting ways. First City Drugs will always be the place that knows your name and cares about your story.

Answers by: Natalie Malone, PharmD, and Derek Stephens, PharmD

GULF COAST PLASTIC SURGERY

543 Fontaine St., gulfcoastplasticsurgery.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery is the largest plastic surgery practice in the region. Drs. Butler, Leveque and Patterson are ASPS board-certified plastic surgeons. Our Skin Care Center provides the region's most comprehensive non-surgical anti-aging services.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The dedicated professionals at Gulf

Coast Plastic Surgery take seriously their com mitment to providing the best medical care to our community. We are honored by the trust placed in us by our patients.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery sets the gold standard for plastic surgery and non-surgical skin care. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery looks forward to expand ing its services in 2023 with a new, state-of-theart facility.

Answers by: Cathy Butler, Practice Administrator

IDEAL WEIGHT LOSS

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. 36, Gulf Breeze, idealweightloss-gb.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Exceptional customer service with a focus on providing individual plans for everyone. We help them accomplish their goals without medi cation and help them keep the weight off. We provide the best products at the best prices and help people learn to love a new, healthy life. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The people I see each day are what in spire me. Seeing the transformation that occurs both inside and out inspires me to continue to do what I love, and that is to see each of them reach their health goals.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? You can't medicate yourself out of a situation you behaved yourself into. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to seeing our city continue to be the jewel in the crown of Northwest Florida. I'm excited my business gets to be such an integral part of what makes living here so great.

Answers by: Kristi Renfroe, Owner and Health Coach

REGYMEN FITNESS

5007 N. Davis Highway, Ste. 14, regymenfitness.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Regymen Fitness Pensacola is a cuttingedge fitness facility offering results-driven workouts using the latest technology led by the area's best coaches. Our community is second to none, offering the support needed to crush your fitness goals.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The multitude of success stories we receive strengthens our resolve to continue mak ing an impact on the health and wellness of all of those who enter our doors. There is nothing like celebrating fitness victories with our members. We are their biggest cheerleaders. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Regymen delivers an engaging and evolutionary fitness experience completely focused on you and the positive, measurable results you deserve. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are always looking for ways to improve the client experience through continuous training. We look forward to implementing initiatives that make our studio a "happy place." We are more than just a fitness studio, but a place where folks come to work on being their best selves.

Answers by: Leah M. Seacrest, Owner

STERN CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC 5599 N. W St., sternchiroclinic.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our unbridled commitment and focus on patient care and satisfaction. We treat every patient individually and specifically for their condition. Over the past 17 years I've been in

practice, I've found a balance between taking time with every patient and being efficient, so patients' personal schedules are respected.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The joy I feel helping others live their best lives by reducing their physical pain and giving them an optimistic outlook that they are in control of their own health and well-being.

I believe I was given a gift for chiropractic ma nipulation, and I want to share that gift.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Compassionate and well-trained team with a goal of improving the health and well-being of others through chiropractic and physical medicine.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I embrace the incredible growth, diversity and options we have seen develop in the Pensacola health care community and am honored to be part of it. For my business, I look forward to cre ating further relationships with other health care providers and to being a foundation for musculo skeletal care in Pensacola.

Answers by: Dr. Jason Stern, Chiropractor

WILD LEMON

904 E. Scott St. and 3000 N. 12th Ave., wildlemonstudios.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Wild Lemon is fun, friendly, empower ing and welcoming to everybody. Movement is medicine, and we strive to create soothing spaces where you can escape the hustle of the day and slow down to connect to your breath and body.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Every student who walks through our doors. Hearing your stories, celebrating your victories, leaning on each other through hard times—this community constantly inspires us to do better, further our education, experiment with class styles and offer our best—every day.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? A place of joy, community, comfort and growth for all. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We just opened our Pilates equipment studio in East Hill, and I'm excited to see how both studios grow and change throughout the next year.

Answers by: Kiley Bolster Manning, Owner and Movement Coach

YOGA ABODE iamabode.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Yoga Abode is a pop-up yoga studio, making yoga accessible to anyone, anywhere. I am passionate about teaching yoga and offering hands-on instruction through adjustments, align ment and massage. I love creating space for others to slow down, self love, unplug and restore. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My yoga students. My yoga practice. My family and my friends. My city. My desire to create meaningful, in-person experiences that cultivate long-lasting connection to build and deepen our Pensacola community.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? When we gather together, magic happens. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? In 2023, I am excited to continue to teach pop-up yoga classes and yoga privates, offer monthly Full Moon Restorative Yoga events and host more wellness retreats. Thank you, Pensacola, for your dedication and support. Let's keep growing. Let's keep showing up.

Answers by: Donna Dickey, Owner and Certified Yoga Instructor

Leading the way in compassionate, personalized care

Top doctors and award-winning care

Ascension Sacred Heart is committed to delivering personalized care at every visit, at every site of care. We’re grateful to the doctors, care teams and support staff who help us do that every day. Thanks to them, Ascension Sacred Heart is:

• Winner, Best Hospital

• Runner-Up, Best Walk-In Clinic

• Runner-Up, Best Weight Loss Program

• And our doctors are recognized among the top doctors on the Gulf Coast

When you and your family need care, we’re here. Start a conversation with one of our doctors today.

Adam P. Tarnosky, MD Family Medicine

Brian L. Sontag, DO Obstetrics/Gynecology Jairan L. Duke-Elmore, DO Obstetrics/Gynecology

services.

BEST HAIR SALON

Winner: The Blue Magnolia Salon

The Powder Room

Salon San Carlos

Volume ONE

BEST HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Alex Horne (Hairy Alex Horne)

Celia Gomez (The Blue Magnolia Salon)

Brittany Hightower (The Blue Magnolia Salon)

Jennifer Brewer Martin (The Powder Room)

BEST HAIR COLORIST

Winner: Gabrielle Montoya-Frias (Loxx by Natalie & Co.)

Hollyn Champlin (Salon San Carlos)

Sidni Mickel (Color Creations, Cuts, and Styles by Sidni)

Courtney Northington (Peach Fuzz)

BEST BARBER SHOP

Winner: Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods

Barberos

East Hill Barbershop

Pensacola House of Barbers

BEST MEN'S HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Ryan Kolb (Pensacola House of Barbers)

Noel Delarosa (Pensacola House of Barbers)

Zach Roberts (Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods)

Luna Zepp (Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods)

BEST DAY SPA

Winner: Escape Wellness Spa

East Hill Massage and Aesthetics

Stay The Spa

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

BEST MASSAGE

Winner: Escape Wellness Spa

East Hill Massage and Aesthetics

Purple Lotus Massage and Wellness

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

Winner: Whitney Pike

(Escape Wellness Spa)

Ben Driskell (Empathic Practice)

Angela Hegwood (Purple Lotus Massage and Wellness)

Stephanie Knight (Escape Wellness Spa)

BEST PEDICURE

Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar

Bellagio Nails and Day Spa

DESHI Medina Belleza

BEST MANICURE

Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar

Gilded Pensacola

Medina Belleza

Vibar Nails

BEST HAIR REMOVAL

Winner: Dela Beauty Bar

East Hill Medical Group

Stay The Spa

The Waxing Studio

BEST FACIAL

Winner: Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

DESHI

Escape Wellness Spa

Jo Rich Beauty

BEST ESTHETICIAN

Winner: Megan Carnley (Escape Wellness Spa)

DeSheri McClure (DESHI)

Zoe Rose Pittman (Zoe Rose Artistry)

Sonya Scarbrough (East Hill Massage and Aesthetics)

BEST SKIN CARE OVERALL

Winner: DESHI

East Hill Massage and Aesthetics

Escape Wellness Spa

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

BEST BANK

Winner: Regions Bank

Centennial Bank

Hancock Whitney Bank Synovus Bank

BEST CREDIT UNION

Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union

Gulf Winds Credit Union

Members First Credit Union

Pen Air Federal Credit Union

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Winner: Andrew Martin (Atlas Financial Strategies)

Jacey Cosentino (Morgan Stanley Wealth Management)

Jarrod Dawson (Dawson Wealth Management of Raymond James)

Raymond James at Gulf Winds Credit Union

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM

Winner: Warren Averett

Anglin Reichmann Armstrong Hudson Peden Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund

BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Winner: Levin Rinke Realty

Conna O'Donovan Real Estate

Keller Williams Realty Gulf Coast Kuhn Realty

BEST COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Winner: NAI Pensacola

Gunther Properties

Kuhn Realty

SVN | Southland Commercial

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Winner: Simone Sands (Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty)

Joy Harrell (Real Broker LLC)

Travis "Moose" Mattair (Keller Williams Emerald Coast)

Conna O'Donovan (Conna O'Donovan Real Estate)

BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL/INN

Winner: Solé Inn and Suites

New World Inn

Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel Paradise Inn

BEST HOTEL–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: Hilton Pensacola Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach

Margaritaville Beach Hotel Paradise Inn

BEST HOTEL–PENSACOLA

Winner: Hilton Garden Inn

Holiday Inn Express Downtown

Hyatt Place Pensacola Airport

Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel

Andrew Martin

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX

Winner: Southtowne Apartments

Avalon Apartment Homes

Crestview at Oakleigh Apartment Homes

Governors Gate Apartments

BEST ARCHITECTURE FIRM

Winner: Dalrymple | Sallis Architecture

Brett Duch Architect

Bullock Tice Associates

STUDIO PICA

BEST LAW FIRM

Winner: Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon

Crawford Law

Levin Papantonio Rafferty

Ward & Barnes, P.A.

BEST ATTORNEY

Winner: Rachel Sheffield

(Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon)

Scott C. Barnes (Ward & Barnes, P.A.)

Chris Crawford (Crawford Law)

Kerry Anne Schultz (Schultz Law Group)

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Winner: Blake Thomas (State Farm)

Will Rentschler (State Farm)

Jordan Reyes (Goosehead Insurance)

Scott Westmark (Allstate)

BEST VET

Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

East Hill Animal Hospital

Pine Meadow Veterinary Clinic

Scenic Hills Veterinary Hospital

BEST DOG GROOMER

Winner: Vanity Fur

Blue Angel Pet Salon

Everything's Irie Doggie Salon

ShamPoochies

BEST DOGGIE DAY CARE/BOARDING

Winner: Fetch Fido

Pensacola Pet Resort

Play-N-Stay

Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

BEST DOG TRAINING

Winner: East Bay Dog Spot

Mike the Dog Trainer

Off Leash K9 Training Emerald Coast

Total Dog Training

BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

Winner: Hanto + Clarke

Bear General Contractors

Morette Company

Parsons Company Construction

BEST AC COMPANY

Winner: All Seasons Service Network Commander Air Inc.

PensaCool

Shannon's HVAC

BEST LANDSCAPING

Winner: Eye Candy Lawns

Blue Sky Landscaping

New Roots Lawn & Landscapes

Outerspaces Landscapes

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER

Winner: Nest Interiors by Kristin Bouchard

Lacy Phillips Designs

Lindsey Lay Interiors

Mallory Gillette (STUDIO PICA)

BEST CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING

Winner: Aiken Picture Frames South Framing By Design

Just Plain Putter

Marty Campbell Gallery & Frame Shop

BEST TATTOO & PIERCING STUDIO

Winner: Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio

Hula Moon

Portside Tattoo

Salter Studios

BEST TATTOO ARTIST

Winner: Erin O'Shea Salter (Salter Studios)

John Aguirre (Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio) Shauncey Fury (Sacred Grounds Tattoo Studio)

Ali Roudabush (The Western Rose)

BEST SPECIAL EVENT SPACE

Winner: 5eleven Palafox

BLUSH Venue & Studio

De Luna Winery and Court of De Luna Event Space

Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

BEST CATERER

Winner: Classic City Catering Culinary Productions Inc. Jo's As Always Nancy's Catering & Events

BEST FLORIST

Winner: Fiore of Pensacola Celebrations The Florist

Chrissy Floral Design

Just Judy's Flowers, Local Art & Gifts

BEST PORTRAIT/FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner: Wave Photo by Aislinn Kate

A. Lynne Photography

Kelsei Frazier Photography

Lindsey Friar Photography

BEST CAR WASH/DETAILER

Winner: Eco Car Wash

Kennedy Kustoms

Perdido Auto Spa

Veteran's Way Mobile Detailing

BEST AUTO SERVICE SHOP

Winner: Gulf Coast Mobile Tire

Able Auto Repair

East Hill Automotive Center

Evans Automotive Service Center

BEST WINDOW TINTING

Winner: West Florida Window Tint

Mike Ryan's Truck & Auto Accessories

Premier Tinting

Trent Ciccone Mobile Tint & Detail

BEST GREEN BUSINESS

Winner: Salon San Carlos

Bailey's Produce & Nursery

The Daily Squeeze

SunFarm Energy

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Winner: WolfGang, LLC

Easy Going Gallery

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Maker's Coffee Co.

AIKEN PICTURE FRAMES SOUTH INC.

15 E. Brent Lane, aikenpictureframes.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are family owned and operated. Every customer is treated as if they are family. We have same-day service for certain size frames. We pride ourselves on our customer service.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our customers and artists inspire us to create memories that will last for years.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We want everyone to have access to quality framing at an affordable price.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We want to continue to provide framing services to our community and to help build and support small businesses in Pensacola.

Answers by: The Aiken Family

ATLAS FINANCIAL STRATEGIES

125 W. Romana St., Ste. 720, atlasfinancialstrategies.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I believe our attention to detail and the fact that we truly care about our clients and the services we provide them is what sets us apart. I think our clients can tell how important they are to us.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Watching my parents work as hard as they have and still make sure to be there to sup

port me and my sister throughout our lives. I've always said if I can be half the man my dad is, I will have accomplished something great.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We act as a personal CFO to our business-owner clients to manage and coordinate their business and personal planning.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to expanding our team next year to add to the level of service we're able to provide our clients. I'm also excited to see how Pensacola con tinues to grow and evolve. As someone who has lived here their entire life, I'm proud of Pensacola.

Answers by: Andrew Martin, Founder and President

BLAKE THOMAS STATE FARM

3043 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, iamblakefromsf.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I think what sets us apart is our endless hunger for growth and change. We want to be our best selves for our customers so that we can help protect them and their families. We want all our customers to know they are getting our best.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? When we are not growing or pushing ourselves, we are declining. I live by this every single day, and it drives me to be the best version of myself. I always want to keep moving forward.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We

are here to help people protect what matters most, their families.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I am looking forward to growing our team so we can help and reach more customers in our community.

I am really excited to get more involved within the community, and I want to make a difference in the community outside of just insurance.

Answers by: Blake Thomas, Agent and Owner

THE BLUE MAGNOLIA SALON

2878 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, facebook.com/blue.magnolia.salon

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I believe it's the combined talent of our team and quality of work leaving the salon. We work really hard to continually improve our skill set for our clients.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? There is nothing I love more than when a client is genuinely excited over their hair. It makes my day every time. That's what inspires me.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

A boutique hair salon specializing in bomb hair and glam brides.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

This area is exploding with so many unique and talented local small businesses. We are truly grateful to have support from our community. We look forward to another year of growth and helping our clients look and feel like the queens

they are. Thank you, Gulf Breeze and Pensacola.

Answers by: Alison Sardina, Owner

CLASSIC CITY CATERING

214 W. Intendencia St., classiccitycatering.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Exceeding our clients' expectations, keep ing up with event industry trends and providing the freshest local ingredients cooked on-site. We will handle everything and strive to create a stress-free and memorable experience for you and your guests.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our clients continue to inspire us to do our best. We strive to make every event stress free, successful and memorable. We have been blessed to serve Pensacola for more than 33 years and are honored to be voted the best. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Classic City Catering offers gourmet full-service catering and does everything from "BBQ to Black Tie." What are you looking forward to next year—for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to being a part of Pensacola's celebrations and creating memorable events, while incorpo rating the freshest local ingredients possible.

Answers by: David Penniman, Owner

DALRYMPLE | SALLIS ARCHITECTURE

503 E. Government St., dalsal.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We're one of few firms on the Gulf Coast

Up Best Wedding Caterer

that create solutions for clients in both the com mercial and residential sectors. Fifty percent of our work is commercial, and 50% is residential. That is not common.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We believe in Pensacola. We believe this beautiful city can continue to grow, building on its historic bones. The result will continue to be a vibrant, walkable, place to work and play. We are inspired by the impact of making a difference in our community, one building at a time.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Each day, our team endeavors to create impactful design that builds the quality of our community.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Being a part of more housing solutions and creating vibrant spaces in our downtown core.

Answers by: J. Scott Sallis, AIA Principal Architect

DELA BEAUTY BAR

1803 W. Garden St., facebook.com/delabeautyandbrowbar

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I believe what sets the business apart is the time we take to listen and customize each client's brows to best compliment their fea tures. We create a comfortable and cozy envi ronment that allows clients to feel welcomed and relaxed.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I just absolutely love what I do. I'm so passionate about making people look and feel good about themselves. Changing the shape of someone's eyebrows can make a world of a differ ence and really boost confidence.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? "If you have brows, we'll wax 'em,"—just kidding. "Live life beautifully."

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I'm really excited to see the business expand with a few more employees and services. I would like to expand with multiple locations within the next five years.

Answers by: Nikki S. De la Peña, Owner

DESHI

5 W. Main St., deshibeauty.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? DESHI is the only non-toxic medical and wellness spa in Pensacola that goes beyond beauty and seeks to bring the mind and body to equilibrium.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? DESHI is motivated to cultivate change in the beauty industry by ensuring all of our prod ucts are safe for every unique individual in our community, no matter their struggle.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

DESHI is a non-toxic medical and wellness spa that goes beyond beauty and welcomes everyone. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are launching DESHI Elevate, a rebrand into modern medical wellness featuring a newly renovated contemporary design. DESHI will feature a variety of new high-quality services and DESHI products in our sanctuary of beauty

and wellness, providing our community with better choices.

Answers by: Hannah Hamlin, Manager and Director of Operations, and DeSheri McClure, CEO and Expert Skin Guru

EMMANUEL SHEPPARD AND CONDON

30 S. Spring St., esclaw.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? As a full-service law firm, we are uniquely positioned to best serve our clients' needs through the collaborative approach of our expe rienced attorneys from a broad range of practice areas that can assist with any additional legal issues that may arise.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We come to work every day to help re solve the issues that keep our community up at night. We see the impact these issues have on our clients, and knowing that we have the ability to lighten their load motivates us to do our best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We listen, counsel and identify resolutions for your legal issues.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? This next year, we will celebrate our 110th anniversary of serving the greater Pensacola area. We are thankful to our community for having the confi dence in our abilities to resolve their legal issues and we look forward to the next 110 years.

Answers by: Melissa Dandridge, Marketing Director

ESCAPE WELLNESS SPA

4400 Bayou Blvd., No. 24, escapeandfeelbetter.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Escape's culture is special and at its core is based around love and caring. The way our team mates support each other and then, in turn, truly care for our clients is a beautiful expression of the human spirit. I'm proud to be a part of it.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I'm most inspired by my staff. By putting my energy into lifting them up and helping them be their best, that flows into their work with our clients. That then allows those same clients to feel better and therefore brighten the days of the people they interact with.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Es cape not only helps people feel better directly but also inspires them to help others feel better, too. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I'm excited to see my teammates continue to grow, and I can't wait to support them. In addition, it will be beautiful to see more of the camaraderie and support that businesses around Pensacola show each other. I can't wait to see what's next.

Answers by: Stephanie Knight, LMT, Owner

FETCH FIDO fetchfido.net

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our mission is to love and support every dog and their family. Our dog-care professionals are canine first-aid certified, combine mental and physical enrichment, and actively nurture your pup. Our app shows GPS location, timestamped

photos and report cards, and it allows the user to schedule and cancel visits.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Unfortunately, the dog care industry is fairly unregulated. It grieves me to think of a dog being mistreated. Being a protective dog parent myself, I am motivated to create high standards at Fetch Fido to provide transparency, reassur ance, and a loving, safe and super fun time for your fur baby.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We support the family by supporting the family dog. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are excited to expand our services so we can provide quality care to a larger group of families. We have opened our Positive Only Training Di vision, and we have doubled our dog care pro fessional team. We are committed to support ing local businesses and dog-friendly events and establishments.

Answers by: Chris Holzworth, CEO

FIORE OF PENSACOLA

405 S. K St., fioreofpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Quality and commitment to our prod ucts, customers and ethics. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Entrepreneurship has doubts and compli cations daily. It's the mindset of get up, get down to business, solve problems and send out the best product possible—every single day.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Determination fueled by creativity. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Suc cessful community events that broaden to include more artists in floristry and landscape design.

Answers by: Shannon Pallin, Owner and Creative Director

HAIRY ALEX HORNE SALON

2590 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 305, hairyalexhornesalon.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I listen to my clients and ask a lot of ques tions. A large portion of my business is managing expectations. It's not my client's responsibility to know if a hair color they want is in their budget or if their hair can accommodate it; it's mine. I'm a hair guide.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Once you've seen someone's demeanor change because of a hair appointment, you'll never have to search for inspiration again. I feel like that one girl from "Mean Girls"—you know, the one that just has a lot of feelings. I really just strive to make people feel great about themselves. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? A chill, fun and educational hair experience in a private and inclusive space. What are you looking forward to next year—for your business, our city and be yond? I'm excited for the future of Pensacola and my business that is based here. As people around my age keep growing and taking on more responsibility in our community, I really hope it's going to bring a sense of positivity,

understanding and open-mindedness that our city will benefit from.

Answers by: Alex Horne, Owner and Stylist

HANTO + CLARKE

3601 N. Palafox, hantoclarke.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our mission for every project we partner on is to not just build an excellent facility for our client but also provide them with an outstanding experience in the process.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We are blessed to be a part of this com munity. We believe our work directly contrib utes to economic growth, which in turn means the opportunity for families to have access to health care, food and homes to live in, and that inspires us to deliver our best every day.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We help people realize their vision.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? As our community continues to grow, so does our busi ness. We have many significant projects under way, from medical facilities to car dealerships, to restaurants and large office complexes and more. We can't wait to complete them so they become open, thriving businesses visited by so many in our community.

Answers by: Mike Clarke, Owner

HILTON PENSACOLA BEACH

12 Via De Luna Drive, hiltonpensacolabeach.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We're located on one of the world's whitest beaches, in the center of everything. When you stay with us, you're within walking distance of the most popular local restaurants and attractions. We're also the best place on the island to host your meeting, special event or beach wedding.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? At Hilton, we are inspired by our founding vision—to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality. We love it here on Pensacola Beach and want guests to have great memories to share with others from their stay at the Hilton.

#HiltonForTheStay

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Creating fun and memorable experiences in the heart of Pensacola Beach.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to making more memorable expe riences. We are renovating to enhance our res taurant, pool deck area and beach bar. We are implementing changes to be more sustainable, including installing bulk amenities. Pensacola Beach continues to add new businesses and hotels to bring in new visitors.

Answers by: Stephanie Barbee, Director of Sales

LEVIN RINKE REALTY

10 Portofino Drive, Second Floor, levinrinkerealty.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? We believe everyone should have a trusted guide when buying and selling their home. In order to accomplish this mission, we

provide our agents with training opportunities and resources so that they can exemplify the highest quality of service in the industry. Our knowledge is your power.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Real estate is an important source of wealth and savings for people in our commu nity. It plays an integral role in our economy.

We don't take that lightly. Helping people get the most value out of their real estate transac tions will always be the driving force behind what we do.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? The guiding light in local real estate.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? In 2023, we aim to provide additional resources for the benefit of our agents and their clients. We look forward to continuing to better our com munity by hosting public training events and providing the opportunity for people to grow their careers.

Answers by: Brooke Swearingen, Marketing Project Manager

NAI PENSACOLA

24 W. Chase St., naipensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are a woman-owned small business focused on honest and fair concierge service for our clients.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I love the people I work with and want them to all be successful. Their success is my success. Seeing them achieve and grow makes me work all the harder.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are a full-service commercial real estate company focused on our clients and commu nity involvement.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to a continued robust economy and to working with our newly elected city and county government officials.

Answers by: DeeDee Davis, Owner and Broker

NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

5550 Heritage Oaks Drive, navyfederal.org

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Navy Federal is a not-for-profit financial institution serving the military and their families.

We are proud of our mission to provide member service, support our team members and make a difference in the community.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our members are our mission. We fol low this mission statement for each and every decision we make.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our members are our mission.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We will continue putting our members first and partnering with the community to make a posi tive difference.

Answers by: Amber Southard, Corporate Communications Strategist III

NEST INTERIORS BY KRISTIN BOUCHARD

500 N. Ninth Ave., @nestinteriorsinc

What do you think sets you and your business apart? With my passion for interior design, I truly possess an innate desire to create and design inte riors that will exceed my clients' expectations. My extensive experience and an eye for quality and style with a client-centered approach to busi ness allow me to provide great design down to the last detail.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I'm inspired daily by traveling, archi tecture, museums, nature, boutiques and my clients' personalities. I bring the vision of my projects to life and tell a story through textures, patterns and colors. I love what I do.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Designing spaces that are well appointed, in spired and conversational.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to final installs on several new construc tion projects, starting new projects and starting the build on our new house. I love living and own ing my own business in Pensacola.

Answers by: Kristin Bouchard, Owner and Principal Designer

PENSACOLA HOUSE OF BARBERS

2011 E. Olive Road, pensacolahouseofbarbers.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? We treat all our customers as if they are family.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The joy that our services bring our customers.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We make you feel at home.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? To continue to grow and provide top services for our community.

Answers by: Colton Walden, Owner

SACRED GROUNDS TATTOO STUDIO

7 E. De Soto St., @sacred.grounds.pensacola

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Listen here, Sacred Grounds didn't crawl its way out of the muck of the pandemic to do bobo tatts. We don't poke no crooked holes. We don't rip folks off. We work hard to give you the best product for your budget. Check out our Ins tagram and pick your person.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We just want to make tattoos that make people happy in styles we find fun to perform. So that's why we like it when you pick your artist and let us run with your idea. It truly makes for the best results.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We're committed to giving you the aesthetic you want as long as you're committed to coming and getting it finished.

What are you looking forward to next year—for your business, our city and be yond? We've always wanted to be able to give Pensacola a premium tattoo experience in a beautiful environment. We look to expand upon

these goals as we strengthen our commitment to good skin art and piercings, as well to the art community as a whole.

Answers by: Shauncey Fury, Eight-time Runner-Up for Best Tattoo Artist

SALON SAN CARLOS

528 W. Garden St., salonsancarlos.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? One thing that sets us apart is that we specialize in curly hair with several curl special ists on staff. We are a "Green Circle" salon. Be ing a green business continues to motivate us to accept responsibility for our planet.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We're inspired by our desire to take care of our family, team and our guests. We believe they all deserve the best. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Commit ted to being creative, innovative and responsible. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? For our business, we look forward to the continued growth of our salon team. For our city and beyond, we look forward to helping other salon owners and stylists grow through our education program—Full Spectrum Curl Education.

Answers by: Carlos and Pam Garcia, Owners

SALTER STUDIOS

8107 Pensacola Blvd., Ste. C, erinosheatattoos.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? In our studio, we work hard to help cre ate a positive and affirming experience for all our clients that will leave them with not only a beautiful piece of customized artwork but also a happy and fun memory of working with us.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I work only to be better than I was before. My inspiration lies purely in being an artist and having a level of curiosity in the way things work and on new art techniques that drives me to learn, tweak and perfect numer ous styles.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? The art created here isn't mine or yours; it is ours together.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I am always looking forward to new clients, ideas, possibilities and artistic creation. I also look forward to taking on and teaching a new ap prentice in the upcoming years.

Answers by: Erin O'Shea Salter, Owner and Artist

SIMONE SANDS, REALTOR, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY

HOMESERVICES PENFED REALTY

17 W. Cedar St., Ste. 2, simonesells.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Communication. While it sounds simple, there are a lot of parties involved in a transac tion, and there are even more moving parts. Keeping everyone informed at each step of what to expect next takes coordination and skill, and it's probably my greatest strength.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My customers inspire me. They are relying on me to help them with possibly the

biggest investment of their life. It's a lot of re sponsibility, and I don't take it lightly.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Simone Sells.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Personally, I look forward to lots of live music now that The Handlebar has reopened. Profes sionally, I look forward to connecting with my colleagues and continuing my education at the Berkshire Hathaway Sales Convention in Las Vegas next year.

Answers by: Simone Sands

SOLÉ INN AND SUITES

200 N. Palafox, soleinnandsuites.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Solé is in the heart of downtown, close to all activities Pensacola offers. We offer clean, comfortable rooms for a great price. We are also one of the few local independently owned hotels in the area, and we support our community.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We love Pensacola and want to give out-of-town guests a great impression of the best our city has to offer.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

An independently owned boutique hotel in the heart of downtown.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Con tinued growth and making our Solé guests happy, while continuing to support our community.

Answers by: Mark Bodiford, General Manager

SPANISH TRAIL VETERINARY HOSPITAL

6801 Spanish Trail, spanishtrailvethospital.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our customer service and the quality of medicine practiced. We make sure we provide compassionate and excellent care in a timely manner throughout the entire visit. Our staff truly loves what we do.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My wonderful clients and the special re lationship they share with their pets. It is reward ing to help the Pensacola community by keeping their best friends healthy and happy.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Spanish Trail is focused on high-quality care, excellent customer service, a caring staff and community service.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to a healthier year for the community and continuing to provide Pensacola with the highest quality veterinary care.

Answers by: Dr. Liz Tringas, Owner

weddings.

BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE

Winner: Pensacola Beach

Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor Marina

Pensacola Picnic Co.

Posh Picnics Pensacola

BEST PLACE TO BUY AN ENGAGEMENT RING

Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop

Beré Jewelers

Elebash's Jewelers

Rock Hard Design House

BEST CEREMONY VENUE

Winner: Sowell Farms

5eleven Palafox

Old Christ Church

Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

BEST RECEPTION VENUE

Winner: Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

5eleven Palafox

Pier Suite Events

Sowell Farms

BEST OFFICIANT

Winner: Bryan Adams

Scott Brown

Curtis Curry

Tom Schwarz

BEST BRIDAL STORE

Winner: The Bridal Loft Bella Bridesmaids

The Bridal Suite

Simply Elegant Couture Bridal and Prom

BEST PLACE TO RENT A TUX

Winner: Gent's Formal Wear

Don Alans

Nixon's

Randall's Formal Wear

BEST BRIDAL MAKEUP ARTIST

Winner: Hayley Gurney

(Gulf Coast Glam House)

Jessica Bosley (Beauty By Bosley)

Kendall Frazee (Skin by Kendall Lyn)

Vanessa Myers

BEST WEDDING HAIR SALON

Winner: The Powder Room

The Blue Magnolia Salon

Bombshell Blowout Bar

Hair + Co

BEST WEDDING HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Tonya Penrose (The Powder Room)

Chelsey Domschke (Hair + Co)

Alexandra Evans (Hair by Alexandra Evans)

Alison Sardina (The Blue Magnolia Salon)

BEST WEDDING PLANNER/COORDINATOR

Winner: Supposey

Aislinn Kate Weddings

Felicia By Design

Fete + Flora

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner: Aislinn Kate Weddings Lother Co. Megan Muñoz Photography

Phocus & Company

BEST PHOTOBOOTH

Winner: Phocus & Company

The Posey Bus

Revolving Vibe

Tap the Coast

BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY

Winner: Phocus & Company

Aislinn Kate Weddings

Lother Co.

Written in Film

BEST WEDDING BAND

Winner: Nobius

Ben Loftin & The Family Marvelous Strings

The Six Piece Suits

BEST WEDDING DJ

Winner: DJ TreVy

AnyDayDJ

Albert Lao

Tom Schwarz

BEST WEDDING CATERER

Winner: Culinary Productions Inc. Classic City Catering Nancy's Catering & Events

The Whistling Pig

BEST WEDDING CAKE

Winner: Bluejay's Bakery Betty Weber Cakes Craft Bakery Emerald Coast Custom Cakes

BEST WEDDING FLORIST Winner: Chrissy Floral Design Fete + Flora Fiore of Pensacola Supposey

BEST WEDDING RENTALS

Winner: Supposey Events Styled By LUXE

Hemstitch Vintage Rentals WeddingWalls

BEST WEDDING PARTY TRANSPORTATION

Winner: Supposey Beach Bum Trolley

Five Flags Trolley Co. Pensacola Party Bus

BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING GIFT

Winner: Artesana

duh for garden and home Pizzaz

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST PLACE TO BUY BRIDESMAID GIFTS

Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique

Pizzaz

SoBo Boutique

BEST PLACE FOR A REHEARSAL DINNER

Winner: The Grand Marlin Jackson's Steakhouse

Pier Suite Events

V Paul's Italian Ristorante

BEST PLACE FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS TO STAY

Winner: Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel Hilton Pensacola Beach Holiday Inn Express Downtown Margaritaville Beach Hotel

weddings.

AISLINN KATE WEDDINGS AND WAVE PHOTO BY AISLINN KATE

4400 Bayou Blvd., Ste. 19, aislinnkate.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are a team. Our clients can always reach someone if they have a question, and we support, uplift and inspire each other to get better every day.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The talent around me. Our team is so creative that I'm constantly pushed to be better than yesterday. This also applies to the incred ibly vibrant event and photography communi ties here in Pensacola.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? 100% client satisfaction, no matter what. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to continuing to expand our vid eography and planning services to serve our local wedding community. By this time next year, we hope to have grown our team to be able to serve even more wonderful clients.

Answers by: Aislinn Kate Rehwinkel, Owner

BEACHPREACHER

beachpreacher.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? It's about personal relationships—not only with the couple but also the family and guests. Many become lifelong friends.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Remembering it's an honor and privi

lege to be a special part of the couple's "best day" and how important my words are to them.

I consider my role as officiant to be sacred, per sonal and memorable. That day makes a differ ence in their lives.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? I marry people on the beach, church or venue.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? For Pensacola and the surrounding area to become a true destination spot for weddings. This means a holistic approach to tourism, flight options, marketing, venue choices, transportation options and ease of rentals without unnecessary hurdles. We are such a great wedding city.

Answers by: Reverend Bryan Adams

CHRISSY FLORAL DESIGN

chrissyflorals.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our goal is to make every couple truly excited about their wedding. It's more than flow ers. It's about bringing their individual person ality and taste into making their day beautiful and uniquely theirs. We want to tell a love story through flowers.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Pensacola is filled with so many tal ented creatives. We have an amazing floral community that works together and cheers each other on. Them, combined with our amaz ing couples and my wonderful wife, are who inspire me.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Everyone is welcome at our flower table.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are so excited to be moving into a bigger studio, and with that comes so many exciting opportuni ties. We're looking forward to more floral classes for the community, growing our team and being able to take on more weddings and events.

Answers by: Chrissy Darling, Owner

CULINARY PRODUCTIONS INC.

700 W. Main St., culinaryproductions.net

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Attention to the details and our customer service. We always look for ways to go above and beyond for our clients, and I feel that extra service really sets us apart.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our clients inspire us to do our best. When you're serving 100 guests, the last thing you want to see is someone with a frown on their face after trying the food. And we abso lutely love what we do, so making sure we do our best comes naturally.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We always tell our clients, "Whatever you need, we can help out with. We cater to you."

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? As everyone knows, the growth and popularity of our city has really exploded over the past few

years, and we are excited to see that continue into next year as we look to expand our services.

Answers by: Mike DeSorbo, Owner

GULF COAST GLAM HOUSE

@gulfcoast_glamhouse

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The past five years, I have been so grate ful to receive this award as Best Bridal Makeup Artist with Inweekly's Best of the Coast. When I think back over that time and how I'm moving forward, I really feel it's the heart, the care and passion for my clients.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? In the beauty industry and wedding in dustry, I feel it is so important to deliver nothing but the best. I try to create a service along with an atmosphere that delivers upon every single expectation with care and attention to detail. My clientele is beyond exceptional to me. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Come in however you are; all are welcome here. However, get ready to walk out as a full-blown babe. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I'm really excited to see the city grow culturally. We just got a new mayor who's excited to grow small businesses and expand our downtown. I feel Pensacola is in a season of business cultiva tion. I'm so grateful to advance further as a local makeup artist and business owner here.

Answers by: Hayley Gurney, Lead Makeup Artist and Owner

Winner Best Wedding Florist

Runner Up Best Florist

PHOCUS AND COMPANY

4415 Bayou Blvd., phocusonme.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Phocus not only provides a beautiful product but also an unforgettable experience. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The fact that we are preserving the memories of a once-in-a-lifetime event.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? We create raw wedding photos and videos that evoke emotion and capture your big day in a unique way.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? For Pensacola, we are excited the wedding industry here is embracing new trends and techniques, which will bring so much excitement to next year's weddings. For our team, we are excited to see more professional growth.

Answers by: Tim Sewell and Caleb Cummings, Owners

THE POWDER ROOM

404 E. Wright St., facebook.com/thepowderroompensacola

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Immaculate attention to detail and genuine love for what we do.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Putting heart and soul into bringing your hair goals to life, while giving you the "me time" you deserve.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

If you're talking loving what we do, Best of the Coast.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Meet ing needs and making your hair dreams a reality.

Answers by: Jenne Martin, Owner and Stylist

SUPPOSEY WAREHOUSE AND GARDENS

101 S. F St., supposeyvenue.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We include setup and breakdown in-

house, along with many event rentals, such as centerpieces, dance floor, bar, lighting, lounges and decor that are included in the venue price.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We love weddings, and we strive to cre ate the best experiences for our couples. Events of all kinds are exciting, but the personalities we marry into our designs are what lights our fire.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Effort-filled wedding planning to create events that feel effortless.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are so excited to host all the upcoming wed dings through the end of the year and into 2023.

So far, 104 couples have selected our venue, and we cannot wait for each and every magical day.

Answers by: Chloe Sexton, Owner

TAP THE COAST

tapthecoast.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our mobile bars offer a unique, luxury option for serving beverages at private events.

From signature drinks to specialty mocktails— whether it's for a wedding, grand opening or a cocktail class—we help create memorable experiences to celebrate milestones in our cli ent's lives.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We are part of some special occasions where we're serving our clients' closest friends, family and supporters. It's a huge honor and we don't take that lightly, so you always have to bring your "A" game.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

A party on wheels.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to growing our amazing team, expanding our fleet and offering new services. It's exciting to see and be part of the small business growth in Pensacola, and I hope to help inspire others.

Answers by: Dannon Byrd, Owner

bluejaysbakery.com

retail.

Best Community Leader Winner Quint Studer

Thank you, Pensacola!

Best Local Celebrity Runner-Up Bubba Watson

Bodacious Brew Winner Best Coffee Shop Runner-Up Best Cup of Coffee

Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe Winner Best Place to Buy a Book Runners-Up Best Place to Buy Greeting Cards/ Stationery and Best Barista— Brandon Goodson

Bodacious Olive Runner-Up Best Gourmet/ Specialty Food Shop

So Gourmet Winner Best Cooking Classes

Best Place to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Runner-Up Bubba’s Sweet Spot

Winner Best Special Event Space Runners-Up Best Reception Venue, and Best

Venue

Winner Best Place for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay (Wedding category) Runners-Up Best Boutique Hotel/Inn and Best Hotel in Pensacola

Best Reason to Attend a Blue Wahoos Game Winner The View Runners-Up Family Fun, Fireworks and Roach Run

Runner-Up Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

Winner: Sandy Sansing

Frontier Motors

Pensacola Honda

Pete Moore Automotive Team

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Winner: Ride MORE Bicycles

CycleSports Bicycles

Trek Bicycle Store

Truly Spokin Bicycle Company

BEST BOUTIQUE

Winner: SoBo Boutique

GRAY Boutique

Haus of Clementine

Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique

BEST MEN'S APPAREL

Winner: Garden Street Vintage Don Alans

Viola's Men's Apparel Waterboyz

BEST WOMEN'S APPAREL

Winner: SoBo Boutique Bluetique

Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique Saturn Collection Vintage

BEST CHILDREN'S APPAREL & GIFTS

Winner: Haus of Clementine Pizzaz

Rusted Arrow Mercantile SML Store

BEST ACCESSORIES

Winner: SoBo Boutique

GRAY Boutique

Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

Winner: Elite Repeats & Boutique Lullabies and Mudpies

Prissy Peacock Consignment and Antique Mall Rococo

BEST THRIFT STORE

Winner: Waterfront Thrift Store Ministry Village Bargain Center Pensacola Habitat for Humanity ReStore Teen Challenge SuperThrift

BEST ATHLETIC/OUTDOOR STORE

Winner: Running Wild Coastal Paddle Company Waterboyz Weatherford's

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Winner: Supertouch Vintage All About Antiques

Alyssa's Etc. duh for garden and home

BEST HOME DÉCOR & ACCESSORIES

Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile Alyssa's

retail.

Aqua Decor & Design duh for garden and home

BEST ANTIQUES

Winner: All About Antiques

Alyssa's Blue Moon Antique Mall Trader Bo's

BEST VINTAGE SHOP/SELLER

Winner: Saturn Collection Vintage Garden Street Vintage

The Hippie's Greenhouse Rocket Anyway Vintage

BEST MAKER/ARTISAN

Winner: The Crafted Makerie LemonBright

Papergirl Plants

The Stellar Maker

BEST GIFT SHOP

Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile Angel's Garden Celebrations The Florist

Millie's Garden Boutique

BEST PLACE TO BUY GREETING CARDS/STATIONERY

Winner: Charlotte Mason Printing Company Artesana

Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST PLACE TO BUY A BOOK

Winner: Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe Artesana

Bailey's Produce & Nursery Open Books

BEST COMIC BOOK STORE

Winner: Pensacola Pop Comics Mr. Comics

Necroptik: Comics & Collectibles TBS Comics

BEST NEW STORE

Winner: Haus of Clementine Millie's Garden Boutique SML Store Video Game Trading Post

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: Bailey's Produce & Nursery Jade Tree Succulents

Millie's Garden Boutique Pensacola Seed & Garden

BEST HARDWARE STORE

Winner: Pensacola Hardware

ACE Hardware of Gulf Breeze Hall's Hardware & Lumber Pensacola Habitat for Humanity ReStore

BEST COMPUTER/TECH STORE Winner: Palafox Computers Tech Advanced Computers The Tech Handyman TechWorldRepair

BEST MUSIC GEAR/ INSTRUMENTS Winner: Blues Angel Music A Joyful Noise Music Store Leitz Music

Schmidt's Music

BEST RECORD STORE

Winner: Revolver Records All About Antiques Easy Going Gallery Music Box Pensacola

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

BEST WINE SHOP Winner: Aragon Wine Market The Bottle Shop The East Hill Bottle Shop The Nest General Store

BEST WINE TASTINGS Winner: Aragon Wine Market Agapi Bistro + Garden The Bottle Shop The Nest General Store

BEST GROCERY STORE Winner: Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Apple Market Bailey's Produce & Nursery Shoreline Foods International Market & Deli

BEST INTERNATIONAL FOOD MARKET Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli Biên Đông Oriental Super 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 Joe Patti's Seafood

ALL ABOUT ANTIQUES

3940 W. Navy Blvd., facebook.com/allaboutantiquespensacola

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our incredible selection of vintage and antique items from all around the world here at one place in Pensacola, as well as our customer service. Our customers are amazing and won derful people, and we strive every day to bring something special into their lives.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our customers. It's an incredible feel ing when someone gets nostalgic and finds a unique item in our store that reminds them of the past or a loving family member they miss. It really makes all our hard work worth it.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? 10,000 square feet that's beautiful and unique. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Busi ness wise, to keep things local. We could sell things online, but we don't. We prefer to give our community a chance to get great unique items at our establishment. For our city, we just look forward to serving our amazing customers and building up our community.

#ShopLocal

Answers by: Paula McCutcheon, Owner

ARAGON WINE MARKET

27 S. Ninth Ave., aragonwinemarket.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? As a small business with lots of com petition from much larger companies, we have

retail.

learned the one thing we can do to set ourselves apart is focus on our personalized services.

We're your go-to for personal customer service for your wine needs.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Always the customer. We're lucky that after almost 14 years of serving Pensacola, we have a wonderful, loyal base of customers.

These great people are not only customers but also have become friends.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

"Unique and affordable" with a focus on superb customer service.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

We've got some exciting new changes coming up next year. We kicked off our new Cru of Aragon Wine Club this year with great success. We plan to build on this with fun events and increase our focus on becoming your "wine concierge" for all your wine needs.

Answers by: Charlotte Gordon, Owner

BODACIOUS SHOPS

407 S. Palafox, bodaciousshops.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our coffee is roasted in-house, salads are customized with healthy ingredients, and high-quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars add elevation to your cooking. Our specialty kitchen items are carefully curated with an emphasis on local artisans. Our event spaces are a beautiful showcase for making new memories.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Bodacious Shops is a mission-based business, built on improving the quality of life in the communities we serve. Our owners, Quint and Rishy Studer, put all profits back into the community. Our team loves welcoming in new and old friends, sharing their knowledge with craft coffee and delicious food.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? A collection of distinct shops, all under one roof, with something special to delight everyone. What are you looking forward to next year—for your business, our city and be yond? We are grateful and proud to celebrate our 10-year anniversary as a vibrant part of downtown this year and are excited to continue supporting our community while welcoming guests for years to come.

Answers by: Noelle White, Director of Retail Operations

THE CRAFTED MAKERIE

thecraftedmakerie.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I think my commitment to creating unique, quality pieces that are designed to be worn time and again and my desire to create a fun, positive customer experience sets me apart. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Seeing my customers enjoy their ear rings and accessories inspires me to continue to do my best to make quality pieces they can enjoy for years to come. Their support means

the world to me, and I'm grateful for the oppor tunity to create beautiful jewelry for them.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Quality, lightweight polymer clay and acrylic jewelry and accessories that are unique and fun. What are you looking forward to next year—for your business, our city and beyond? I am so excited to launch some new products in this upcoming year and to continue to create for my customers. It is such a privilege to be a part of our local small business com munity, and I'm eager to watch it grow and our city flourish as a result.

Answers by: Kelsey Wiseman, Owner and Artist

GARDEN STREET VINTAGE

100 S. Jefferson St., gardenstreetvtg.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our selection of unique and affordable vintage and streetwear. Our store atmosphere is a fun place to hang out. Everyone who walks into the store is treated like a friend, and we want them to have a great experience.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our passion for vintage clothing, as well as teaching people the benefits of buying vintage, is a big inspiration. Helping put the right item with the right person and give them a total new outlook on recycling and shopping is inspiring.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? I would describe it as a nostalgic escape, the perfect place to vibe.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to growing and having our entire team continue to be the best, bringing more events, awesome vintage pieces and streetwear, and continuing to help expose people to fast fashion alternatives and great retail experiences.

Answers by: Dallas Patterson, Co-Owner

HAUS OF CLEMENTINE

960 E. Nine Mile Road, Ste. 4, hausofclementine.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Haus of Clementine is a mama-owned baby and children's boutique for the modern little cutie. We offer newborn to 6-year-old apparel, accessories, toys and gifts. We wanted to bring specially curated brands to our smalltown shop and to be able to offer the community beautiful and modern options with ease.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My 4-year-old daughter, Aislinn, is the inspiration behind all I do. I work hard to show her all that's possible for women in this world. She loves being the boss baby at the boutique. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Haus of Clementine has hand-picked pieces from the best brands for the modern little cutie and their mamas.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to seeing the community continue to flourish, particularly our side of town, as

more people settle in here. I'm so thankful for the support we've received so far and hope to continue to expand our offerings and serve our precious customers to the best of our ability.

Answers by: Kathryn Price Infinger, Owner

JEWELERS TRADE SHOP

26 S. Palafox, jewelerstradeshop.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our top priority is customer service and how we make our customers feel. It would be easy to get caught up in the transactional aspect of what we do, but at the end of the day, people are going to remember you for how you made them feel.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our biggest inspiration is our customer base. Meeting their expectations isn't enough. Our goal is to exceed all of their expectations. Keeping that in mind really drives us to go the extra mile and do what others can't or won't do.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Perfecting the jewelers art since 1956.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

We're really excited about the continued growth of downtown and what that will mean for Jewel ers Trade Shop. Getting new leadership in the mayor's office also has us excited for everyone in Pensacola. It seems that the city is buzzing with an energy it's never had before.

Answers by: Corbett Davis III, Owner and President

Thank you for voting us Best BBQ 10 consecutive years!

PALAFOX COMPUTERS

111 N. Palafox, palafoxcomputers.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our employees are the big gest difference. We have some of the best in the business.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."—Wayne Gretzky, Michael Scott, Kyle Crawford

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Effort and attitude take no skill.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Growth. We want to grow our city, business and giving to our community.

Answers by: Kyle Crawford, President

PENSACOLA POP COMICS

909 N. 12th Ave., pensacolapopcomics.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I had a customer move away and say, "The only thing I'm going to miss about this town is my neighbor's dog and your store." It might be too cryptic, but it's too good not to share.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I'm still just aiming for better. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where all of the books have pictures. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I don't

skate, but I'm excited for the new skate park. It's such an awesome opportunity for our youth.

Answers by: Harley Orr, Owner

RIDE MORE BICYCLES

59 E. Gregory St., ridemorebicycles.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? First and foremost, we are bike riders.

We want others to enjoy cycling as much as we do. We recognize that bike shops can be intimidating. We strive to create a welcoming atmosphere where our clients can lean on our experience to help guide their adventures. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? It's simple—we love bikes and the com munity of riders we serve. Each and every one of us has had our lives enriched by these simple machines. They have the power to make bad days better, long distances shorter, and they encourage exploration of points unknown. Let's ride. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are bike riders dedicated to helping others ride more bicycles.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? For 2023, we are excited to see bicycle inventories return to pre-pandemic levels. We look forward to the opening of the second span of the new three-mile bridge and are eager to see the Reeves administration begin their incoming bike and pedestrian initiatives for downtown and beyond.

Answers by: Travis Coleman, Co-Owner

F ind your .

The Center serves as downtown Pensacola’s cultural and artistic hub.

interior overhaul owntown.

Creating the Cultural Center was visionary. The resurgence of The Center is a legacy. legacy

retail.

RUSTED ARROW MERCANTILE

130 S. Palafox, rustedarrowmercantile.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We believe what sets Rusted Arrow apart is our incredible, welcoming team and the fact that we have worked hard to build deep roots and connections in the community. We continually strive to fill the shop with things we truly love and to be a place of joy and inspiration.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our community and our growing family of team members inspires us every day. From workshops, fundraisers and collaborations with other businesses, we have found creat ing beauty and spreading kindness with those around us has pushed our business to flourish into what it is today.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Rusted Arrow Mercantile is a place to press pause and feel inspired.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We believe Pensacola's future is brighter than ever, and we look forward to making new connections within our community. We hope to be a driving factor in bringing new people, businesses and culture to Pensacola.

Answers by: Samantha Breedlove, Owner

SANDY SANSING AUTOMOTIVE

6200 Pensacola Blvd., sandysansing.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We have served the community for over 30 years and given back so much to the commu nity. We are an honest and great selection. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The automotive industry has had a bad stigma for so long, and we strive to change the mindset of our customers— as every dealer is not dishonest.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Doing the right thing and being No. 1 in everything we do.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Continued growth and prosperity.

Answers by: Donnie Lewis, Marketing Director

WATERBOYZ

380 N. Ninth Ave., waterboyz.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? As many of our employees are surfers

and skaters themselves, we pride ourselves on providing the highest level of knowledge and best experience for all customers. We constantly look for and accept ideas on how to improve WBZ year after year. Putting our community first is always a priority.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? They say, "Do something you love and you'll never work a day in your life." That's what we all strive for. Putting in the hard work to ensure our shop flows smoothly and provides the best available products to our community is our way of ensuring that lifestyle.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Loyalty, rhythm, soul.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are so excited for the Blake Doyle Skatepark to open and help keep the Pensacola skate com munity thriving. In our future, we will see the WBZ Winter Classic Surf Contest along with the second annual Red Bull Foam Wreckers Contest on Pensacola Beach, and maybe a few WBZ parties too.

Answers by: Waverly Norris, General Manager

Aiken Picture Frames South

Framing

Custom Picture

Again!

bars. drinks. nightlife.

BEST BAR OVERALL

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

Alga Beer Co.

The Cabaret

The Kennedy

BEST NIGHT CLUB

Winner: Seville Quarter Blend Lounge

The Cabaret

The Roundup

BEST BAR–DOWNTOWN

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

The Cabaret

The Kennedy Play

BEST BAR–CORDOVA AREA

Winner: Wisteria Tavern

Alga Beer Co.

George Bistro + Bar

The Magnolia

BEST BAR–NORTH PENSACOLA/

NINE MILE ROAD

Winner: Coastal County Brewing A Little Madness Brewing Company Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse Sammy Barker's

BEST BAR–WEST PENSACOLA/ PERDIDO KEY

Winner: The Elbow Room Gary's Brewery & Biergarten Hub Stacey's at The Point Kingfisher

BEST BAR–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: Sneaky Tiki Bar Casino Beach Bar & Grille Paradise Bar & Grill Sandshaker

BEST BAR–MILTON/PACE

Winner: BAR515

Beardless Brewhaus Gulf Coast Garage Patio Bar Ollie's Neighborhood Grill

BEST NEW BAR

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

BAR515

Juan's Flying Burrito Whiskey Joe's Pensacola Beach

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox

The Cabaret Garden & Grain

The Kennedy

BEST DRINK SPECIALS

Winner: Play The Cabaret

Old Hickory Whiskey Bar

The Roundup

BEST COVER CHARGE

WORTH PAYING

Winner: Seville Quarter

The Cabaret

The Roundup Vinyl Music Hall

BEST DAY DRINKING

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

Alga Beer Co.

Emerald Republic Brewing Co. Garden & Grain

BEST DRINK MENU

Winner: The Well

The Kennedy Old Hickory Whiskey Bar Union Public House

BEST SPECIALTY COCKTAILS

Winner: The Kennedy George Bistro + Bar Union Public House The Well

BEST DAIQUIRIS/ FROZEN DRINKS

Winner: Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar

Flounder's Chowder House Perennial Patio Bar

The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST BUSHWACKER

Winner: Paradise Bar & Grill

Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar Flounder's Chowder House Sandshaker

BEST BLOODY MARY

Winner: Ruby Slipper Cafe

Five Sisters Blues Café George Bistro + Bar The Well

BEST MIMOSA

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Another Broken Egg Cafe Ruby Slipper Cafe South Market

BEST MARTINI

Winner: The Kennedy

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood Jackson's Steakhouse McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST SELECTION OF WINE

Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox

Agapi Bistro + Garden

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Casks And Flights Wine Tasting Room

BEST MARGARITA

Winner: Garden & Grain Cactus Cantina Cactus Flower Cafe Juan's Flying Burrito

BEST SIGNATURE DRINK

Winner: Bramble (Union Public House)

Burnt Fashioned (George Bistro + Bar)

King Koopa (Play) Painkiller (Kingfisher)

BEST SELECTION OF BEER ON TAP

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company 200 South Bar & Kitchen Alga Beer Co. Coastal County Brewing

BEST SELECTION OF BOTTLED/ CANNED BEER

Winner: Alga Beer Co. 200 South Bar & Kitchen Hub Stacey's Wisteria Tavern

BEST BREWERY

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

Alga Beer Co. Emerald Republic Brewing Co. Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST LOCAL BEER

Winner: Bone Harvest (Odd Colony Brewing Company)

East Hillsner (Alga Beer Co.)

Fred's Red (Coastal County Brewing)

Ten Wraiths (Emerald Republic Brewing Co.)

BEST BARTENDER

Winner: Nate Simmons

(Union Public House)

Erin Cuneo (Odd Colony Brewing Company)

Nicole Greenwell (George Bistro + Bar)

Amber Tirpak (BAR515)

BEST DJ

Winner: dr0ne

Albert Lao

DJ Dad hdycvt

BEST DRAG QUEEN

Winner: Judah

Terrah Card

Monica Heart

Alastina Jade Samore

BEST SPORTS BAR

Winner: Badlands Roadside Bar

Sammy Barker's

Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

The Ticket Sports Bar

BEST SPORTS TEAM

CLUB HEADQUARTERS

Winner: Play Badlands Roadside Bar Seville Quarter Union Public House

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

Winner: Alga Beer Co. Coastal County Brewing The Magnolia Wisteria Tavern

BEST PET-FRIENDLY BAR

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

Coastal County Brewing

Emerald Republic Brewing Co. Odd Colony Brewing Company

BEST HOTEL BAR

Winner: Paradise Inn

Hilton Pensacola Beach Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach Margaritaville Beach Hotel

BEST BAR WITH A VIEW

Winner: Sneaky Tiki Bar

The Bridge Bar and Sunset Lounge Casino Beach Bar & Grille Paradise Bar & Grill

BEST BAR AMBIANCE

Winner: The Well

The Elbow Room

Odd Colony Brewing Company Old Hickory Whiskey Bar

BEST BAR FOR GAMES

Winner: Play

Coastal County Brewing The Elbow Room Emerald Republic Brewing Co.

BEST TRIVIA NIGHT

Winner: Alga Beer Co. The Cabaret Emerald Republic Brewing Co. Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST KARAOKE NIGHT

Winner: Play The Cabaret Hub Stacey's Seville Quarter

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC

Winner: Emerald Republic Brewing Co.

Odd Colony Brewing Company Paradise Bar & Gril Seville Quarter

BEST BAR FOOD

Winner: MI SU Street Food at Odd Colony Brewing Company Coastal County Brewing Hub Stacey's The Kennedy

Winner Best Late Night Eats & Best Bar–West Pensacola/Perdido Key

Runner Up Best Hot Dog, Best Bar Ambiance & Best Bar for Games

ALGA BEER CO.

2435 N. 12th Ave., algabeerco.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? One of our main goals has always been to not take ourselves too seriously. At the end of the day, we're selling beer; it doesn't have to be pretentious. We like to have a good time, and we want that to bleed over into the business.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We want what we do to be memorable. From the beer to the bar staff, your experience here is everything to us. We have a level of ex cellence we strive for on a daily basis that's just a bit out of reach. That's what keeps us inspired. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? A place for everyone with cold beer and real nice folks.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

We're hoping to help keep craft beer progress ing in Pensacola. It would also be cool to add to our collection of state and national beer competition medals.

Answers by: Brett Reid, Co-Owner

BADLANDS ROADSIDE BAR

23 S. Palafox, facebook.com/nynbadlands

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? Consistently being a bar without the frills.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My dream at 14 was to own my own bar and restaurant. This is my 23rd year and my third operation.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? It's a bar.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Looking for the city to move into a customerfriendly atmosphere downtown.

Answers by: Nick Zangari, Owner

BAMBOO WILLIE'S

400 Quietwater Beach Road, Ste. 14, bamboowillies.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Invested in the community, we regularly support various nonprofit organizations in our local area by supporting or hosting fundraisers.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The ability to work on Pensacola Beach and meet new people every day, along with an awesome staff that goes the extra mile for our guests.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

It's just a great place to have fun and make some new friends.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are excited to be celebrating our 25th Anniver sary in our community and continue to bring the best live music to the beach.

Answers by: Robert Gleim, Managing Partner

THE ELBOW ROOM

2213 W. Cervantes St., facebook.com/elbowroompensacola

What do you think sets you and your business

apart? Our family here at The Elbow Room strives to provide an experience that is consis tent with the environment and service started 59 years ago by Maggie and Jim Flynn.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? As one of the oldest pubs in the Pen sacola area, we want our guests who visit us in Brownsville to have a unique visit they cannot find anywhere else.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The Elbow Room—the best bar in Pensacola. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Expanding and improving our outdoor seating area. The growth in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties has brought many new residents to our area, and we look forward to sharing our little slice of heaven with them.

Answers by: Jonathan Owens, Partner

EMERALD REPUBLIC BREWING CO.

1414 W. Government St., emeraldrepublicbrewing.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart?   Emerald Republic is for those who live, think and dream outside the standard and the norm. Our slogan is "Crafted with Conviction," and we strive to accomplish that every day with excellent beer, atmosphere and customer ser vice. We strive to show resilience, compassion and gratefulness to our wonderful city.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our community inspires us every day. Pensacola is Emerald Republic's home, and the

friends, family and laughter within these walls are what inspire us to be the best we can be.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? "Crafted with Conviction."

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are looking forward to continued growth and doing our part in making Emerald Republic and Pensacola the best that it can be. There are a lot of good times ahead.

Answers by: Phil Zayas, Owner and Head Brewer

ODD COLONY BREWING CO.

260 N. Palafox, oddcolony.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our collective penchant for remaining cu rious while seeing those curiosities through. Our inspiring staff feels just as excited to hand process 2,800 lbs. of local scuppernongs for a saison as they are to serve it on the other side of the bar. We think that's pretty special.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? It's a confluence of being inspired by and paying homage to age-old traditions by way of process, yet always reevaluating new tech niques to integrate seasonal terroir that help us create a distinctly NWFL product.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Scavenge. Ferment. Transcend.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

We are immensely excited to announce the

WINNER

Best Margarita

in the city 3 years running!

RUNNER UP

Runner Up Best Happy Hour

Runner Up Best Day Drinking

WINNER

Best Drink Menu

Best Bar Ambiance

RUNNER UP Best Specialty Cocktails Best Bloody Mary Best Oysters

RUNNER UP

Runner Up Best Brewery

Runner Up Best Trivia Night

RUNNER UP

Best Daiquiris/Frozen Drinks

Blake

bars. drinks. nightlife.

opening of our second taproom and biergar ten in East Hill, The Burrow. We also look for ward to continuing to work with the community through events to both promote and conserve this sacred parcel of the planet where we live.

Answers by: Brett Schweigert, Co-Founder and Head Brewer

PERFECT PLAIN BREWING CO., GARDEN & GRAIN AND THE WELL 50 E. Garden St., perfectplain.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Hi, we're Perfect Plain Brewing Co., Gar den & Grain and The Well. Located in the heart of downtown Pensacola, our mission is to create in credible experiences that make our beer, brewery and hometown, Pensacola, unforgettable. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Perfect Plain Brewing Co.'s taproom is our place to share the creations of our passions with you—a place to delve into time-honored traditions, push boundaries in fermentation, explore new frontiers with spirits and push forward the boundaries of flavor.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola is a perfect plain. There is something in it so exhilarating, pure and wholesome, it enlivens the whole system.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to continuing to provide the fruits of our passions in our beer, events, spirits and service. We will continue to strive to create a unique experience for all guests, new and old, to always have a good drink and a good time.

Answers by: Mae LeRoy, Event Manager

PLAY 16 S. Palafox, Ste. 200, iplaypensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We try to have the success of a postage stamp—stick to one thing until we get there. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Hey, we were able to believe in the tooth fairy for like nine years; we can believe in ourselves for at least 10 minutes. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Keep the change, you filthy animal. What are you looking forward to next year—for your busi ness, our city and beyond? Someone to enter a battle royale with the city about the price gouging of the parking tickets in city-owned parking garages.

Answers by: Some staff and a few strangers

SEVILLE QUARTER

130 E. Government St., sevillequarter.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Se ville Quarter is Pensacola's pre mier entertainment and dining complex. From Rosie O'Grady's dueling piano show to Phineas Phogg's, Pensacola's hottest dance club, Seville is devoted to

providing the highest level of customer service as outlined in "The Five F's"—fine quality products, friendly atmosphere, fast service, fair prices, family business.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Being the best is what all businesses work hard every day to be. Being the best is what keeps customers coming back year after year. We define best as the one everyone else looks up to for leadership and the one everyone is always talking about.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The Gulf Coast's No. 1 entertainment and din ing destination since 1967.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to another great year of business. Developing new customers and keeping our loyal regulars happy is our mission every day.

Answers by: Buck Mitchell

SNEAKY TIKI BAR

17 Via De Luna Drive, islandculturetikibar.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? The laidback island vibes and our incredible staff that keep visitors coming back again and again. Drinks are pretty darn good, too. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Time is the most precious commod ity, and we never get a chance to relive the day, so make each one the best one it can be. It's a good day for a good day.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

One of the best places on the planet, bet. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Keep bringing smiles and good times to our locals, visitors and new faces. We might have some thing in the works, but we'll keep that a surprise for our big fifth-year anniversary next year.

Answers by: Jennifer Jackson-Keating (JJ), Sneaky Tiki Queen

thank you, pensacola!

Luna Drive, Pensacola Beach

@islandculturesneakytiki

islandculturetikibar.com

restaurants. food.

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Restaurant IRON Union Public House

BEST RESTAURANT–

DOWNTOWN

Winner: Restaurant IRON

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Global Grill

Union Public House

BEST RESTAURANT–

CORDOVA AREA

Winner: George Bistro + Bar O'Brien's Bistro & Bar Sake Cafe

The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria

BEST RESTAURANT–EAST HILL

Winner: The Magnolia Cactus Flower Cafe

East Hill Pizza O'Zone Pizza Pub

BEST RESTAURANT–NORTH

PENSACOLA/NINE MILE ROAD

Winner: Sammy Barker's I Heart Bento Lost Pizza Co.

VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST RESTAURANT–WEST PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY

Winner: Kingfisher Hub Stacey's at The Point Jaco's Perdido

The Jellyfish

BEST RESTAURANT–

EAST PENSACOLA HEIGHTS

Winner: Calvert's in the Heights Agapi Bistro + Garden Jerry's Drive In New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST RESTAURANT–

GULF BREEZE

Winner: Taco Rock Lao Ocean

Shan Kishi Japanese Hibachi Taste of Thai

BEST RESTAURANT–

PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: The Grand Marlin Flounder's Chowder House Native Cafe

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST RESTAURANT–

MILTON/PACE

Winner: Blackwater Bistro BAR515

Cosse's Place

La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Winner: Juan's Flying Burrito Bear Fruit Bowls and Coffee Pearl & Horn

A Rustyc Spoon

BEST BAKERY

Winner: Craft Bakery Bluejay's Bakery

J's Bakery and Cafe

Milton Quality Bakery

BEST BREAKFAST

Winner: Native Cafe

Another Broken Egg Cafe

Aunt Katie's

The Nest General Store

BEST BRUNCH

Winner: George Bistro + Bar Polonza Bistro

Ruby Slipper Cafe

South Market

BEST LUNCH

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar Kingfisher Nomadic Eats

VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Winner: MI SU Street Food Brown Bagger Nomadic Eats

A Rustyc Spoon

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: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Bonelli's Petrella's Italian Cafe V Paul's Italian Ristorante

BEST CAJUN CUISINE

Winner: Cafe Nola Broussard's Bayou Grill Cub's Crawfish VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST CHINESE CUISINE

Winner: TaiPei Asian Cuisine Chen's Kitchen House of Chong Uncle Jiang

BEST JAPANESE CUISINE

Winner: Sake Cafe Ichiban Khon's on Palafox Tokyo Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

BEST THAI CUISINE

Winner: SaBai on Jefferson Siam Thai Taste of Thai Thai 54 Cuisine

BEST INDIAN CUISINE

Winner: Taste of India Dinner India Restaurant & Grill Indian Grill Spice & Spirits

restaurants. food.

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 The Busy Bee Mercantile Kingfisher Le Dough

BEST SUSHI

Winner: Sake Cafe Dharma Blue Ichiban Khon's on Palafox

BEST GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

End of the Line Cafe Pearl & Horn South Market

BEST SEAFOOD

Winner: The Grand Marlin The Fish House Kingfisher Peg Leg Pete's

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood McGuire's Irish Pub Restaurant IRON

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: The Wine Bar on Palafox Angelena's Ristorante Italiano George Bistro + Bar Global Grill

BEST ORIGINAL MENU

Winner: Union Public House George Bistro + Bar Kingfisher Restaurant IRON

BEST CHEF

Winner: Edward Lordman (The Pointe)

James Briscione (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano) George Lazi (George Bistro + Bar) Alex McPhail (Restaurant IRON)

BEST UP-AND-COMING CHEF

Winner: Ian Gillette (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano) Dylan Kirby (Polonza Bistro) Carolyn Ore (George Bistro + Bar) Taylor Stoll (Union Public House)

BEST WAIT STAFF

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Carmen's Lunch Bar

Restaurant IRON Union Public House

BEST WAITER

Winner: Ryan Seeley (George Bistro + Bar and The Grand Marlin)

Frank Perez (Union Public House)

Jordan Rinaldi (Polonza Bistro)

Tony Williamson (Global Grill)

BEST WAITRESS

Winner: Crystal Stewart (George Bistro + Bar)

Savannah Jenkins (The Grand Marlin) Cori Perez (Carmen's Lunch Bar)

Olyvia Woods (Five Sisters Blues Café)

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Winner: Bodacious Brew

Fosko Coffee Barre

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

The Nest General Store

BEST BARISTA

Winner: Benjamin Haupt (George Bistro + Bar)

Brandon Goodson (Bodacious Bookstore & Café)

Anna Monk (Craft Bakery)

Seb Wynn (formerly at The Leisure Club)

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Winner: Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille Casino Beach Bar & Grille

The Grand Marlin

The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST PLACE TO SPLURGE

Winner: Restaurant IRON George Bistro + Bar Global Grill

Union Public House

BEST PLACE TO EAT HEALTHY Winner: End of the Line Cafe Bear Fruit Bowls and Coffee Carmen's Lunch Bar

The Daily Squeeze

BEST PLACE TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH Winner: Craft Bakery Bubba's Sweet Spot

Pretty Baked (at Cafe Single Fin)

Mr. C's Homemade Ice Cream

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

Khon's on Palafox

The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Winner: Flounder's Chowder House Cafe Single Fin

Calvert's in the Heights Red Fish Blue Fish

BEST PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Winner: Lucy's in the Square Coastal County Brewing Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille The Magnolia

BEST TAKE OUT/TO GO Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill MI SU Street Food SaBai on Jefferson Sky's Pizza Pie

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BIRTHDAY DINNER Winner: Global Grill Angelena's Ristorante Italiano George Bistro + Bar Union Public House

BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPORTS FANS

Winner: Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant 200 South Bar & Kitchen Calvert's in the Heights The Pointe

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: McGuire's Irish Pub The Grand Marlin Kingfisher Union Public House

BEST GONE-BUT-NOTFORGOTTEN RESTAURANT Winner: Nom Sushi Izakaya chizuko Franco's Italian Restaurant Hopkins Boarding House

food

BEST UNIQUELY PENSACOLA DISH

Winner: Grits à Ya Ya (The Fish House) MI SU Melt (MI SU Street Food) Mullet Platter (Kingfisher) Red Beans & Green Chile Grits (Le Dough)

BEST CUP OF COFFEE

Winner: Fosko Coffee Barre Bodacious Brew Constant Coffee & Tea Craft Bakery

BEST COLD BREW/ICED COFFEE

Winner: Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Buzzed Brew Coffee Jitterbug Beverage Co. Le Petit Pecan

BEST LATTE

Winner: Craft Bakery Constant Coffee & Tea Maker's Coffee Co. The Nest General Store

Thank You

BEST ICED TEA

Winner: Sweet Jackson Tea

The Busy Bee Mercantile Carmen's Lunch Bar

Nomadic Eats

BEST JUICES/SMOOTHIES

Winner: The Daily Squeeze Cafe Single Fin

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Sean's Smoothie Shack

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: Juan's Flying Burrito

Cactus Flower Cafe

Tacos Mexicanos

Taqueria El Asador

BEST TACO

Winner: Tacos Mexicanos

Juan's Flying Burrito Nomadic Eats Taqueria El Asador

BEST SOUP

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar Kingfisher McGuire's Irish Pub New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST DELI

Winner: New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria Apple Market Costello's Butcher Shop Four Winds International Food Market

BEST CHICKEN SALAD

Winner: Craft Bakery

Carmen's Lunch Bar Hub Stacey's Jo's As Always

BEST BURGER

Winner: MI SU Street Food Brown Bagger Sauce Boss Burger Co. Union Public House

BEST HOT DOG

Winner: Dog House Deli

The Elbow Room

Sammy Barker's The Wacked Out Weiner

BEST CHEESE PLATE

Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano Carmen's Lunch Bar Union Public House

BEST APPETIZERS

Winner: Global Grill Carmen's Lunch Bar

George Bistro + Bar Union Public House

BEST MAC-N-CHEESE

Winner: The Magnolia End of the Line Cafe Five Sisters Blues Café Kingfisher

BEST PASTRIES

Winner: Craft Bakery Casita Bread Le Dough Pretty Bear's Bakery

BEST BREAKFAST DISH/MENU ITEM

Winner: Eggs Cochon (Ruby Slipper Cafe) Gravlax Bagel (The Nest General Store) Hoe Cakes (Aunt Katie's)

BEST FRENCH FRIES

Winner: George Bistro + Bar Kingfisher MI SU Street Food Sauce Boss Burger Co.

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café The Dwarf (Legendary "Chicken Stand") MI SU Street Food Union Public House

BEST WINGS

Winner: Hub Stacey's Kingfisher

The Reef

Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

BEST OYSTERS Winner: Peg Leg Pete's The Grand Marlin Pearl & Horn The Well

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

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

BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN DISH

Winner: Knuckle Sandwich (End of the Line Cafe) Biscuits and Gravy (Le Dough) Jackfruit Sandwich (Kingfisher) Soul Food Plate (The Busy Bee Mercantile)

BEST DESSERTS

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar Chrisoula's Cheesecake Shoppe Kingfisher Union Public House

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT Winner: Wild Honey Frozen Yogurt

Frozen Ropes Yogurt Mr. C's Homemade Ice Cream

BEST CAKES/CUPCAKES

Winner: Craft Bakery

BEST COOKIES

Winner: Annie's Naked Cookies

BibiCakes

Craft Bakery

Itsa Cookie

BEST KING CAKE

Winner: Le Dough Craft Bakery

End of the Line Cafe

J's Bakery and Cafe

BEST ORIGINAL MENU ITEM

Winner: Pimento Cheese Pups (Union Public House)

Doughchos (Le Dough)

Hot Chicken Rice Bowl (Nomadic Eats) MI SU Melt (MI SU Street Food)

BEST LUNCH SPECIALS

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

End of the Line Cafe

Kingfisher

Nomadic Eats

BEST WEEKLY SPECIAL

Winner: Prime Time Tuesday (Jackson's Steakhouse)

First Dibs Menu (Restaurant IRON) Sunday Brunch (Le Dough) Super Tuscan Tuesday (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano)

BEST COOKING CLASSES

Winner: So Gourmet

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe Jackson's Steakhouse Pensacola Cooks Kitchen

BEST MOBILE BEVERAGE SERVICE

Winner: Tap the Coast LaTeeLa Le Petit Pecan Maker's Coffee Co.

BEST LOCAL FOOD MANUFACTURER

Winner: The Hummus Lady

The Black Garlic Market

Casita Bread C & D Mill

BEST LOCAL BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER

Winner: Big Jerk Soda Co.

Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Optimus Beverages Sweet Jackson Tea

BIG JERK SODA CO.

9 E. Gregory St., bigjerksodacompany.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our continued commitment to quality ingredients, as well as our focus on staying small and staying true to our local community.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The constant excitement, love and support for our products and accomplishments we get from our customers.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Best job ever.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We have some big-time changes in the works. Look ing forward to growth for ourselves and our city.

Answers by: Ryan, Jenn and Johnny Eaton

BLUEJAY'S BAKERY AND THE NEST GENERAL STORE

11 S. Palafox, Ste. E and C, bluejaysbakery.com and thenestgeneralstore.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? In both Bluejay's Bakery and The Nest, we focus on providing customers with everything needed for a unique experience. The bakery focuses on beautifully designed cakes, and The Nest provides unique flavors in our coffee, food and wine menus.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Providing unique products and experi ences inspires us to be our best. As a whole staff, we love being creative, trying new things and making original creations.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Bluejay's Bakery focuses on custom cakes and desserts. The Nest focuses on unique coffees, food and wine.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to, as a business, being an integral part of our city's accessibility and cultural growth.

Answers by: Justine Gudmundson-McCain, Chef, Owner and Sommelier

CAFE NOLA

400 Quietwater Beach Road, thecafenola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? It begins and ends with our food. We have an amazing head chef, Ted McCrary, and a hardworking front and back of house.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? People work hard for their money; they want to feel like their money is well spent. We want people to come and have good food and a good time.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The best Louisiana cookin' on Pensacola Beach.

A little NOLA in P'cola.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

To continue to bring the same quality food to our customers at our beach location and our second location, restaurant NOLA, opening on Gregory Street this fall.

Answers by: Cy Whitney, Owner

CARMEN'S LUNCH BAR

407 S. Palafox, Ste. B, facebook.com/carmenslunchbar

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We have an eclectic blend of interna tional and Southern cuisine. Our menu is all over the map, so to speak. We believe our focus on fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors and creative recipes make Carmen's a unique destination. The cozy European-style bar and friendly ser vice also draw our regulars back.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The people are definitely what keep me going and keep me inspired. I am fortunate to work with an incredibly hard-working and passionate crew. We all love creating a memo rable experience for our guests. Seeing their smiles, hearing their laughter and clearing their empty plates are our daily inspiration.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Where good friends meet great food. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Carmen's is celebrating our 10-year anniver sary. For me, the future is about longevity and continuing to thrive as a locally owned staple in downtown Pensacola. As our city grows, we want to continue to be the hotspot that brings locals and tourist alike for delicious lunches and good times.

Answers by: MariCarmen Josephs, Chef and Owner

CRAFT GOURMET BAKERY

5555 N. Davis Highway, Ste. H, craftgourmetbakery.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? I think the culture of inclusion and joy that we've created, as well as our commitment to not only our customers but also our employ ees. I think it's evident from the breads we send out, cakes we make and coffee we serve, that everything is made with intention.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? This has been my dream since I can remember. I'm dedicated to always create something I'm proud of.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Craft was built on the special feeling we get when sharing something we've made with the people we love.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We are excited about some changes we will be mak ing to Craft in the new year, as well as becoming a more active part of the community at large. We can't wait to expand and continue to spread joy through Pensacola.

Answers by: Jordan Hewes, Chef and Owner

THE DAILY SQUEEZE

901 N. 12th Ave., thedailysqueezepcola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are one of the only juice and smoothie bars in the area that uses whole food ingredients and has a coffee shop vibe. That

was our goal from the beginning, to provide easy access to a healthy meal in a cozy and welcoming environment.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? This community of small business own ers and makers is really awesome and certainly inspiring. Getting to provide friends, family and this community with a great healthy option— and particularly seeing them enjoy it—is the best fuel to make you do and give your best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? One of our core values is to promote healthy choices without making wellness intimidating, unobtainable or focused on body image.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to improving how we can serve our community and employees in the best way. I'm honored to have the amazing employees we have and want to provide them with a place where they can grow and feel valued.

Answers by: Danielle Mullet, Owner

END OF THE LINE CAFE

610 E. Wright St., eotlcafe.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Staying creative and focusing on clean, healthy options in a cozy and welcoming space for the past 20 years.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Food is inspiring. D.I.Y. new discoveries and sweet smiles from my wee chef.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Creative vegan cuisine.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? New spaces, new ideas, more community and arts events. More food.

Answers by: Jen Knight, Owner

THE FARM

6404 Mobile Highway, thefarmofpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our culture. The care in which we choose our produce, our vendors and our products to make certain everyone has the best experience. It is the "R" in "Farmily."

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Happiness is the real sense of fulfill ment that comes from helping others. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

"The future depends on what you do today."— Mahatma Gandhi

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

There are a great many projects in the works at the moment. The Farm is going to grow in several super exciting directions. Bigger than Green Bucket Sunday even.

Answers by: Sandy Veilleux, Owner and Farmsprout

THE GRAND MARLIN

400 Pensacola Beach Blvd., thegrandmarlin.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We emphasize fresh Gulf seafood, use local ingredients, spotlight delicious drinks and offer a fun, carefree atmosphere reflecting that easy Caribbean lifestyle. Add to that the beauty of Pensacola Beach and an impressive facility

food.

overlooking the Santa Rosa Sound, and you have The Grand Marlin Restaurant and North Drop Bar.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We are passionate about using only the freshest seafood available, preferably from the Gulf. Our seafood is brought in fresh daily and filleted in our temperature-controlled fish house, so our menus are printed twice daily to take advantage of the freshest catch available.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are focused on our community, locals and team members—and definitely our passion for fresh seafood.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Continuing to help support our community, our locals and providing outstanding service to each and every guest.

Answers by: Julie Housley, Marketing Manager

GREAT SOUTHERN RESTAURANTS

600 S. Barracks St., greatsouthernrestaurants.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Thanks to Pensacola, we have become a cornerstone for downtown dining, serving the community for more than two decades. This, cou pled with local ownership, great locations, great food and service, helps to add to the uniqueness of our restaurants.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Pensacola.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Cornerstones of downtown dining.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to a great year ahead. Our commu nity has seen so much over the past few years and has experienced so many challenges. It is so wonderful to see the growth that has come out of it. We are excited to have a banner 2023.

Answers by: Maria Goldberg, Director of Mar keting, Public Relations and Events

HOT SPOT BARBECUE

901 E. La Rua St., hotspotbarbecue.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Our commitment to God, our guests and the community at large.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We never want to disappoint our guests, and that is the focus of everything we do.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Always striving for improvement.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? The completion of the Three Mile Bridge. Pensacola has such a bright future and all of the good things that are happening in Florida in general.

Answers by: James Hlubek, General Manager, and Cheri Hlubek, Catering Manager

THE HUMMUS LADY

thehummuslady.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The Hummus Lady brings consciously fresh and sustainable vibes to whomever we touch. Whether it's our employees prepping local ingredients in the kitchen and delivering

around town or community members delighting in our creative take on hummus, we want you to feel the joy that radiates when we're making it. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I'm inspired by local chefs and Pensacola business owners who make amazing food in an ever-evolving world. Chef Matthew Brown and Sandy Veilleux, the creators of Black Garlic 196, are infinitely supportive and talented. Chef Jordan Hewes, the owner of Craft Bakery, has grown her business to an epic level.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The Hummus Lady experience will fill your heart while wowing your body and soul.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I am thrilled to employ and elevate local women to live in joy and in community for the greater good. We support each other as we share deli cious hummus while making a positively mindful impact on Pensacola.

Answers by: Kelly Joy, Owner and Chief Chickpea Officer

KINGFISHER

1500 Barrancas Ave., kingfishersandwiches.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Kingfisher serves scratch-cooked sandwiches, seafood, salad, soups, sweets and more at an affordable price in a unique mid-century location in the Tanyard district of Downtown Pensacola.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Serving our community and making people happy through food, hospitality and sharing of recipes, ingredients and knowledge

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Kingfisher provides a classic Gulf Coast culinary experience crafted with care, plus a tiki bar in the back.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? More good food and great times, continuing to be a part of Pensacola's amazing growing food scene.

Answers by: Brian Kaderavek, Chef and Owner

LE DOUGH

helloledough.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are the only all-plant-based vegan donut shop in town. I love that we are able to cater to people with some food allergies with out compromising the taste you expect and love from a delicious donut.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our amazing customers and com munity inspire me to always be, do and make my best. Making donuts and treats for a baby shower and then going onto make donuts for that kiddo's birthdays is one of many examples that inspire me to always do my best.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? A cute blue truck full of thoughtfully made, smallbatch, plant-based donuts and treats. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? I look forward to seeing our city continue to grow its small business community and to keep col laborating and building relationships with other business owners I admire and am inspired by. We

BEST MEN’S STYLIST

KOLB

restaurants. food.

hope to expand our products into more local businesses as well.

Answers by: Sam Eckiss, Owner and Chef

THE MAGNOLIA

2050 N. 12th Ave., magnoliapensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your busi ness apart? We think we have the best and kindest customers. We really try to treat ev eryone with respect, and it always comes back around. This is an inclusive and safe space for all walks of life.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The community we serve.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Be love.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to all of the surprises, delicious and otherwise, that life has in store for us. Bill is look ing forward to his new adventure, helping people sell and find homes as a real estate agent with Kuhn Realty.

Answers by: Bill Manning, Kiley's husband, @yourhomeybill

MI SU STREET FOOD

260 N. Palafox, misustreetfood.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? What sets MI SU apart is the fact that we are the youngest in the game, and we're here to cook whatever we want. While we've settled into a fixed menu of smash burgers and fried chicken Tuesday-Saturday evenings at Odd Colony, a new pop-up concept is in the works. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our family life has always revolved around food. My brothers and I have sat around the dinner table countless nights thinking up all of the spots Pensacola needed. With MI SU, I finally brought one of those spots here, so I can't let my brothers down.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Mexican-American Street Food.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Next year, we will focus on our new pop-up concept, FONDA TRECE, which is all about three things— tacos, tostadas and tortas. Follow our pop-up account @fonda.trece on Instagram for a sneak peek of what's to come.

Answers by: Alden Garcia, Owner and Chef

MRS. JONES COLD BREW

Palafox Market and various local retailers, mrsjonescoldbrew.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We make life easier by providing deli ciously convenient caffeine in the form of a fully customizable cold brew coffee concentrate. We brew locally roasted coffee in small batches and fill each bottle by hand. We never add sweeten ers, preservatives or dairy. You're the boss of your cold brew.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our fan-friends are real people living real lives full of love, laughter as well as awk wardness and stress. Their stories inspire us daily as we seek to unite and validate people through something as simple as a cup of coffee that's as unique as they are.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Easy coffee for beautifully busy people. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We hope to open our own brick-and-mortar cold brew coffee brewery and tasting room.

Answers by: Stephanie Jones, aka Mrs. Jones, Your friendly neighborhood caffeine dealer

NATIVE CAFE

45A Via De Luna Drive, thenativecafe.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Native Cafe is owned and operated by longtime natives serving up healthy, fresh, home style breakfast and lunch on Pensacola Beach. We are known to the locals and tourists far and wide as being the best breakfast restaurant in the area. Plus, our staff make customers feel like family. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We're a family run restaurant that was bootstrapped financially by our own family, so every successful meal served and happy cus tomer is a tribute to our own family members' hard work and drive to honor our longtime local ancestors with great coastal cuisine and service. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Go Na tive. Celebrate our area's people, cuisine, history, vibe and community each time you Go Native. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Native Cafe is expanding to the space next door in our flagship location, so we look forward to double seating capacity, a walk-up window for foot traffic and to-go (our "GoNative" window), a full coffeebar experience, more space for local art and more community involvement.

Answers by: Jesse Brown, Owner and Operator

NEW YORKER DELI AND PIZZERIA

3001 E. Cervantes St., newyorkerdeliandpizzeria.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We have a very wide variety of menu options, and that means there is something for everyone. We make eight homemade soups and 20 different salads daily. We have an exceptional staff and take pride in giving excellent customer service. We love what we do and have fun doing it. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We are inspired by a genuine love of people, tasty eats and the community we live in. If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Always fresh and affordable. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to being able to celebrate together in a post-COVID era. We hope to continue to grow with our community and put as much love into the world as possible.

Answers by: Wayne and Renee Nix

THE POINTE

1255 Country Club Road, Gulf Breeze, thepointegb.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Originally opened in 1965 and once home to the PGA Tour's Pensacola Open, The Pointe reopened in Fall 2021 as a new and improved clubhouse designed for community enjoyment and open to the public as an ideal

BEST SANDWICH SHRIMPBURGER

RUNNER UP

•Best Lunch

•Best Salads

•Best Cakes/Cupcakes

•Best Lunch Specials

•Best Bar–West Pensacola/ Perdido Key

•Best Vegetarian/Vegan Cuisine

•Best Seafood

•Best Original Menu

•Best Restaurant to Take Out-ofTown Guests

•Best Soup

•Best Bread

•Best Mac-n-Cheese

•Best French Fries

•Best Wings

•Best Desserts

•Best Vegetarian/Vegan Dish

Jackfruit Sandwich

•Best Uniquely Pensacola Dish

Mullet Platter

•Best Signature Drink Painkiller

restaurants. food.

venue for casual dining, special events and the sports enthusiast alike.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Nestled in the heart of Gulf Breeze, atmosphere, product knowledge and customer service are the driving force of our culture. We work hard every day and have fun doing it. Above all else, treat superstars like everyday people and everyday people like superstars.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Eat. Drink. Play.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? With the addition of Executive Chef Edward Lord man, we are excited to bring an elevated south ern cuisine unlike any other to Gulf Breeze and the Pensacola area. Whether you want to watch your favorite team on the sports bar's 18 TVs or dine with family, get to The Pointe.

Answers by: Jessica Jensen, Director of Weddings and Events

SABAI ON JEFFERSON

130 S. Jefferson St., sabaionjefferson.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? The recipes. We use traditional, authentic family recipes from the Esaan region of Thailand.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our downtown surroundings. We want to grow, elevate and improve just like our down town Pensacola friends and fellow businesses.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

A small, family restaurant with a mission to provide an authentic, unique and relaxing Thai dining experience.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Introducing more people to unique Thai and Esaan flavors and dishes beyond pad thai, fried rice and curry.

Answers by: Myke V (my wife owns the place)

SAMMY BARKER'S

875 E. Nine Mile Road, sammybarkers.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We are a 100% locally owned business founded right here in Pensacola. We make almost everything in-house, including grinding only the choicest cuts of beef for our award-winning burg ers. We have one of the largest selections of craft beer in Pensacola.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our loyal customers. Many of our customers have become more like family than patrons. When I see the same faces week after week and lots of new ones after five years in business, it keeps us motivated to give our best execution and service for them.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? Award-winning burgers, coneys, tacos, shakes, fries and craft beer.

What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond?

Pensacola is experiencing exponential growth in the North Pensacola, Nine Mile Road and University of West Florida area. We hope to be first choice in servicing these new customers and growing our business organically.

Answers by: Joel Jacobs, CEO and President of

Boardwalk Hospitality Group

SKY'S PIZZA PIE

5559 N. Davis Highway, skyspizzapie.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Authentic NY Style Pizza. We have quality ingredients and strive for consistency. We have the huge 24-inch pizza, calzones, strombolis and pizza by the slice.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? What inspires me and my staff is our huge loyal customer base. The friendships that have been built with families and businesses are remarkable. We take pride in pizza and making things right.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be? A crazy pizza machine that keeps growing. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Sky's is opening another location in Pace—hopefully by spring or summer of 2023.

Answers by: Sarah Noble, Owner

UNION PUBLIC HOUSE

309 S. Reus St., unionpensacola.com

What do you think sets you and your business apart? Each dish and cocktail we create always has to have that little UPH twist. We always say "OK, this dish is tasty and all, but what is going to make it pop?"

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Every member of our staff is so vital to UPH and so proud of the experience they are creating. That look on our guests' faces when the food is set in front of them and they take that first bite continues to inspire us all.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

We are crafty Southern pub with a twist and that goes for food, cocktails and the UPH fam. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? Our new location in the East Garden District and our new neighbors at Perfect Plain and The Well.

Answers by: Blake Rushing, Chef and Owner

VOODOO BBQ & GRILL

1741 E. Nine Mile Road, Ste. 9, voodoobbq.com/pensacola

What do you think sets you and your business apart? We bring together New Orleans flavors with in-house smoked meats to create a menu unavailable anywhere else. Our krewe wants you to feel welcomed and relaxed while you enjoy our unique and delicious food. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We thrive on the compliments we receive from our guests. We also love to see the growth in our krewe as we promote from within and offer advancement opportunities for those who are interested.

If you had to define your business with just one sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Smoked in-house barbecue and Cajun cuisine in a clean, fun and friendly atmosphere that captures the essence of New Orleans. What are you looking forward to next year— for your business, our city and beyond? We look forward to continuing to see our regular guests as well as meet new ones. We are looking for growth opportunities and want to see Voo Doo BBQ expand into new markets.

Answers by: Rick and Sylvana West, Owners {in}

Arts & Entertainment

and other

FUNHOUSE at the Punkhouse

By Dakota Parks

to the historic sex work in New Orleans, which is geographi cally very close by in the Storyville redlight district."

Sex work and prostitution are the matically connected throughout Hux's body of work as she attempts to dignify this way that women support themselves and simultaneously explore and critique notions of the nuclear family and poverty within her music. In Malevitus' epony mous debut album, songs like "Pan handle" follow a sex worker on the streets struggling to feed her kids and survive.

By fusing together artistic practices, Hux is vi sually beckoning guests to seek shelter within the punk house, just as train hoppers and young cre ators have historically. Guests at FUNHOUSE are invited to peek inside 309 and explore the home as theatre, the rooms as stages and the teams as family. The audience will immerse themselves in childhood nostalgia amidst a game of maps and mazes that meanders through the house to the tunes of Malevitus.

"All three of these performances are set within houses," Hux said. "I'm interested in how the house is a theatre itself and exploring the dif ferent shapes and possibilities of families dwelling together. The 309 punkhouse is steeped in this history with decades of creatives and transients coming into the space and finding a community and family there. This house allowed so many artists to find their creative voices and express themselves together through cooperation and an undercurrent of progressive thought within a con servative region."

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, step in side the FUNHOUSE and feast your eyes on a bewitching sight sure to surprise. This immer sive evening of music, art and interactive theatre is the brainchild of Tiana Hux, New Orleans-based performance artist, feminist-burlesque-rapper, MC Sweet Tea and frontwoman of the art rock quartet Malevitus. Set inside the storied walls of the 309 Punkhouse—home to a community of artists, punks and activists since the late '90s— Hux's performance explores this subculture and architecture while tapping into your inner child.

As the very first artist to christen the studio space in 309 Punk Project's artist-in-residence program, Hux spent her time combing through the punk archive, writing new music for an album in progress, exploring the streets of Pensacola and planning this performance art piece. Hux un expectedly sought shelter within the punkhouse amidst Hurricane Ida's landfall back in September 2021 and kicked off the residence program early. After postponing her exit show until the pandemic leveled off, Hux is back in Pensacola along with her band, Malevitus, and they're ready to immerse their audience in a game within the FUNHOUSE.

"I design my performances around sitespecific spaces and explore what is possible in

that space—how people move about the space and how the story I'm interested in telling can be told within that space," Hux explained. "I was a performance artist long before I joined Malevitus, so I'm really interested in turning the audience into performers and setting our music as a sort of soundtrack in the background while they cre ate their own experience. I enjoy blurring those boundaries and making people question whether or not something is scripted or accidental."

These meta-stories that Hux weaves together blend performance art with rock music and audi ence participation like an avant-garde theatrical production. Each of her performances is site-spe cific and draws inspiration from the architecture and surrounding community. In 2019, Hux created an immersive production set inside a Storyville brothel, based off her solo album "Story," re leased in 2005.

"That performance, 'A Day Late and a Dollar Short,' explored the experiences of a brothel by moving people through these different rooms with music," Hux explained. "You would hear different things in each of these different spaces because there is a lot of memory in architecture. Like my album, I was really interested in con necting present-day sex work on Bourbon Street

To amplify these themes in the album and celebrate Mal evitus' vinyl release in June 2022, Hux cre ated another immersive musical, called "Ghosts II: Gimme Danger," set inside a mansion in the New Orleans Garden District.

"Everyone was moving through this mansion like they were at an elaborate cocktail party, and it was supposed to represent my house. We even had characters playing members of my family. Our band name, Malevitus, is my family name, and the image on the vinyl record is from my family in Greece. My grandfather is the baby who is in the middle of the album. The album is a song cycle with these vignettes about the nuclear family be cause we're old school and think you should listen to a full album in one sitting and all the songs should be thematically connected. It's cinemat ic in the way it presents this family with an ab sent father and a single mother who is grinding, doing sex work for the sake of her children just trying to make it in the world," Hux explained.

Hux uses her artistic repertoire as a per formance artist to transform these immersive spaces and amplify the music that connects them together. Like these prior performances, Malevitus' music is the string that connects them together and moves audiences through the rooms of a house—be it a brothel, mansion or punkhouse.

Inspired by this history and the architecture of 309 itself, guests will move through the kitchen, bedroom and living room as Malevitus plays music from their album and new songs inspired by Hux's residency within the punkhouse. The show will also feature Hux's poster art, video art by 309 Punk Project Curator Valerie George and sculp tures by Malevitus bassist Marcus Bronson. The art-rock outfit will release a new single and music video the same day to coincide with the event and honor their recently departed drummer, Carlo Nuccio.

"It's like a children's game to draw you into this fairy tale to listen to the songs I wrote in the house and explore how the house is a refuge," Hux said. "We are going to be playing simultane ously in separate rooms, so it's less about watch ing the cohesive performance and more people having this experience, doing this teamwork to create your own experience. Teams will switch rooms after each song and experience something new. Performance art is just another way to crack open our music even further—a parallel expres sion of these ideas."

TIANA HUX & MALEVITUS

PRESENT: FUNHOUSE

WHAT: An immersive evening of music, art and interactive theater

WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7

WHERE: 309 Punk Project, 309 N. Sixth Ave. DETAILS: 309punkproject.org, malevitus.com

Malevitus / Courtesy Photo

Pavilion. Free to the public. Dates are Fridays, Oct. 7 ("Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation") and Oct. 14 ("Hocus Pocus").

STRONG STREET STUDIO PUMPKIN

2018, and each member has been painting for over a decade.

Oct. 15, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at Pensacola Humane Society, 5 N. Q St. $10 bath and flea dips and $10 nail trims. Bring your own towel. Visit pensacola humane.org for details.

ANIMAL ALLIES BINGO Animal Allies Florida is hosting Bingo at two locations. Dates are 7 p.m., Oct. 18, Nov. 1 and 22, and Dec. 6 and 20, at Scenic Hills Country Club, located at 8891 Burn

view at Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pen sacola Heritage Foundation will be 2 p.m., Oct. 6; Naval Aviation Museum, 1 p.m., Oct. 13; and Chappie James Museum, 11:30 a.m., Oct. 20.

CINEMAS IN THE SAND Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket and enjoy family movies on Pensacola Beach this fall. Movies will start at sunset on a giant inflatable screen at the Gulfside

PARTIES

This year, Strong Street Studio is offering a mix of shopping options for your convenience with multiple sales online and in studio. New Inventory will be released for sale online as well as in the studio. Studio sales are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 15 and 29, lo cated at 109 N. A St., Unit B. Details at strong streetstudioglass.com.

WHAT'S SHOWING AT PENSACOLA CINEMA ART PCA is located at the Studer Community Institute, 220 W. Garden St. Watch "Elvis" with showings at 1 p.m. on Oct. 14 and 15 and "The Watcher" 1 p.m. Oct. 22. Classic films are available for free through the PCA website. Visit pensacolacinemaart.com for more infor mation and the latest showtimes.

TIANA HUX & MALEVITUS Immersive live performance, poster art and sculpture, and video installation at 309 Punk House, 309 N. Sixth St., Friday, Oct. 7, at 6 p.m.

BALLET PENSACOLA'S THE PHANTOM

OF THE OPERA The Phantom of the Opera, Ballet Pensacola's 2022-2023 Season opener, tells the story of a masked figure lurking below in the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, ex ercising a reign of terror on all the inhabit it. The masked figure falls madly in love with a young ballerina and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing his devious methods. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 7 and 14, Saturdays, Oct. 8 and 15, and 2:30 p.m. Sundays, Oct. 9 and 16, at Pensacola Cultural Center, 400 S. Jefferson St. Details at balletpensacola.org.

ART AMONG FRIENDS ANNUAL EXHIBITION Art Among Friends will have their fourth annual Exhibition at Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox. The show opens Oct. 4 and will run concur rently with the Cinco Banderas Collections show through Nov. 18. The exhibit is free to the public, and the gallery is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues day-Saturday.

Art Among Friends, composed of 16 local artists, has been painting together monthly since

FIRST CITY ART 16TH ANNUAL GLASS AND CERAMIC PUMPKIN PATCH First City Art Center's 16th annual Glass and Ceramic Pumpkin Patch takes place on Saturday, Oct. 8, from 1-4 p.m., at the Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W. Cedar St. The annual event is free to the public and gives attendees around 7,000 handblown glass and hand-thrown clay pumpkins to choose from and purchase.

First Pick tickets are still available for ear ly entry at 10 a.m. for FCAC members ($30 plus taxes and fees) and 11 a.m. entry for non-mem bers ($40 plus taxes and fees). Tickets can be purchased through the Blue Wahoos Box Office. For more information, visit firstcityart.org.

ESCAMBIA EXTENSION'S FALL GARDEN FESTIVAL UF/IFAS Escambia Extension and Florida Master Gardeners invite the public to the Fall Garden Festival, Saturday, Oct. 8, from 8-11 a.m. The annual event takes place at the Escambia Extension Office, located at 3740 Stefani Road, and is free to the public. For ques tions about the festival, contact Beth Bolles at bbolles@ufl.edu or (850) 475-5230, ext. 1140.

EARTH ETHICS ENVIRONMENTAL EDU CATION SERIES: STORMWATER AND ITS IMPACTS Join Earth Ethics for its guest speak er Carrie Stevenson, UF/IFAS Escambia County Extension Office, to discuss storm water and its impacts 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, Ever'man Educa tion Center, 315 W. Garden St. For questions or comments email Gina Cooke, Communications Manager for Earth Ethics, Inc., at gina.eartheth ics@gmail.com.

MEET MIGNONNE GAVIGAN Join Fiore, 405 S. K St., in celebrating Mignonne "Maggie" Gavi gan for the SMF launch party, 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11.

TABLE TALKS AT THE TRUST Join the His toric Trust for a monthly lunch and learn series on the third Wednesday of the month at the Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center, located at 117 E. Government St., from noon-1 p.m. The program is free—just bring your lunch and enjoy a casual opportunity to learn about a variety of topics. For more information, please email hparchives@uwf.

Trombone Shorty / Photo by Justen Williams

happenings

edu or call (850) 595-5985, ext. 125. The next date is Oct. 19 with Monica Tapper, who will give a culi nary tour through Alabama history.

BRADLEY COPELAND AT EASY GOING

GALLERY The next featured artist at Easy Go ing Gallery, 701 N. V St., is Bradley Copeland. His work will be on view through Nov. 15. An opening reception is Thursday, Oct. 20, from 6-9 p.m. with an artist talk at 7 p.m. Visit facebook.com/easygo inggallery for details.

MOVIE NIGHT AT ALGA BEER CO. Visit Alga Beer Co., 2435 N. 12th Ave., every Monday at 7 p.m. for movie night. Follow @movie_night_at_ alga_ on Instagram to find out which movies will be featured each week.

LIFE DRAWING GROUP AT ARTEL Artel's life drawing group meets every Monday, except holi days, from 6-9 p.m. in Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox. For more information, contact Melvin at (850) 549-8783 or visit artelgallery.org.

PENSACOLA ARTS MARKET Enjoy shopping for a variety of handcrafted wares at Pensacola Arts Market Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1401 W. Intendencia St. Enjoy art, espresso, vintage goods, baked treats, handcrafted unique gifts and more. Admission is free. For more information, visit facebook.com/pensacolaartsmarket.

EASY GOING GALLERY ART MARKET Every Sunday, Easy Going Gallery and Carter J Studios present a weekly art market Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Easy Going Gallery, located at 701 N. V St. Enjoy art, espresso, vintage goods, baked treats, handcrafted unique gifts and more. Ven dors can participate for a $20 fee. For more infor mation, contact easygoinggalleryart@gmail.com.

GALLERY 1060 JURIED SHOW View works in all media from local artists Sept. 12-Oct. 21 at First City Art's Gallery 1060, 1060 N. Guillemard St. Show will feature work from members and nonmembers. Visit firstcityart.org for details.

SURVIVING THE WILDS OF THE PAN HANDLE OPENING RECEPTION The Art Gallery at the University of West Florida pres ents "Surviving the Wilds of the Panhandle" by artist Justin Quaid Grubb from through Nov. 11. Artwork will be on display at TAG, located in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Bldg. 82, 11000 University Parkway.

SÉANCE: PHOTOGRAPHS BY SHANNON

TAGGART A collection of photographs that explore the communities and phenomena associ ated with spiritualism, séance circles, mediumship and the devices used for communication with the spirits. On view at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson, on view through Dec. 4. Visit pen sacolamuseum.org for details.

GREETINGS FROM PENSACOLA Postcards were one of the ultimate promoters of person, place and thing during the first half of the 20th century. Journey through the development of the postcard and Pensacola's postcard past while becoming acquainted with Curt Teich, the world's most successful postcard publisher. On view

through September 2022 at Pensacola Museum of History. Visit historicpensacola.org for details.

SUDDENLY AMERICAN: A MEETING OF HERITAGE AND COUNTRY

This exhibit looks at the transition of Florida from a Spanish territory to an American region, which formally occurred in 1821. Florida's embattled history dates back much farther than 1821. From refusing independence during the American Revolution to wanting their own freedom in 1810, Florida loved to cause prob lems. The United States eyed the region early on, using the Seminole Wars as an excuse to seize territory before turning to diplomatic means to acquire Florida. The Adams-Onis Treaty, de bated and initially agreed upon in 1819, resulted in Spain ceding control of East Florida to the United States. At the same time, Spain also agreed to give up all claims on West Florida, in essence giving the entire Florida territory over to the United States. Ratified in 1821, the treaty was cause for celebra tion in Pensacola, the capital of West Florida, as it officially became part of America. On view at Pensacola Museum of History through Dec. 23. Visit historicpensacola.org for details.

CAPTURING SHADOWS: EXPLORING THE MAGIC OF CAMERAS

This exhibit looks at a brief history of the technology behind photog raphy, from the camera obscura used during the Renaissance to modern digital cameras. In this interactive space, visitors will be able to experi ence capturing the magic of light through differ ent means. The gallery also displays a wide array of camera technology from the UWF Historic Trust collection, including rare images from our archives. On view through Dec. 2022.

CELEBRATE! 50 YEARS OF THE GREAT GULF COAST ARTS FESTIVAL

This exhibit explores the incredible story of the volunteers who keep the festival alive. Through the past five decades, little has made a larger impact on the city than the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival and those who dedicate their time to ensuring it remains a vibrant affair in the heart of Pensaco la. On view at the Pensacola Museum of History through February 2023.

TEXTILES OF THE TIMES: REGENCY ERA DRESS MAKING

The period between 18111820 is historically defined as the Regency Pe riod. This exhibit at the Pensacola Museum of History looks at a day in the life of a Regency-era Pensacolian through fashion and garment use. Drawing on historical documentation of stores known to have operated on Palafox, inside this recreation of a seamstress shop visitors will be able to explore the dress of yesteryear. On view at the Pensacola Museum of History through June 2023. Visit historicpensacola.org for details.

SIT AND SPIN Meet other knitters and spin your yarn on the first Saturday of the month at Studio South Yarn Co., 955 E. Nine Mile Road, Unit 101. Visit studiosouthyarnco.com for details.

SCRIPTEASERS WITH PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE Scripteasers, Studio 400's and Pensacola Little Theatre's Script Reading Club invites you to monthly script readings at PLT, 400 S. Jefferson St. Want to bring your

scripts for the group to read and discuss? Con tact Pensacola Little Theatre to get in queue. The group reads prospective scripts for future seasons as well as new scripts that need a table read before the next edit. Not a playwright but love to read out loud? This is your easy, fun theatre night. Fascinated by the play selection process? Sit in for a listen and usually a lot of laughs. Visit facebook.com/pensacolalittlethe atre for more information and the latest dates.

OPEN MIC AT THE GORDON Show off your talents on the second Thursday of every month at The Gordon's Open Mic showcase from 7-10 p.m. Admission is free. The Gordon is located at 306 N. DeVilliers St. Visit thegordon.org for more information.

OPEN MIC COMEDY AT BIG TOP BREWERY

Try out some new jokes or enjoy some home grown talent every Monday at 7 p.m. for Open Mic Comedy at Big Top Brewery, located at 21 W. Romano St. Everyone gets five minutes de pending on the number of sign-ups. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m.

NEW SUMMER CLASSES AT STUDIO

SOUTH Studio South Yarn Co. has new sum mer offerings—crochet and knitting classes for all skill levels as well as openings for the exclu sive membership to "Unwind" on Thursdays and Saturdays, and finally, free "Knit in Public" pop ups at various Pensacola locations. Visit studiosouthyarnco.com and follow SSYC @stu diosouthpensacola on Instagram to find out the next sit and knit spot around town.

CLASSES AT MIXON MAGIC PERFORM

ING ARTS Mixon Magic Performing Arts (MMPA), a boutique performing arts studio locat ed at 1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 238, will be offering a limited class schedule this fall. MMPA offers professional dance, fitness and "Mommy and Me" instruction for all ages and skill levels with weekly classes including, but not limited to, Creative Movement, Ballet/Jazz Combo, Broadway, Tap, Showstoppers, Acting and Voice. Classes will be provided for children as young as 2 years old (with a parent or guardian) through adult.

MMPA is dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of all students and families and has im plemented protocols based on guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Masks are required for entry into the building and studio. More information about Mixon Magic Performing Arts can be found at mixonmagic.com, by contacting hello@mixon magic.com or emily@mixonmagic.com or by calling (850) 221-7438.

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS AT FIRST CITY ART First City Art Center offers a wide range of classes and workshops for artists of all levels. Classes include glass blowing, ceramics, painting and drawing, kiln-forming, stained glass and more. For a complete list of classes and times, visit firstcityart.org.

FOOD + DRINKS

ATLAS BEVERAGE CLASS The next Atlas Bev erage Class is Thursday, Oct. 6 with Ghost Train Brewery. Classes are 5 and 7 p.m. at Atlas Oyster

Camp

a&e happenings

House, 600 S. Barracks St. Cost is $20 per person. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 287-0200.

THE 11TH ANNUAL RUNNING OF THE BULLS KICKOFF DINNER

The 11th Annual Running of the Bulls kickoff is Thursday, Oct. 6, with a Spanish Wine Dinner. The Spanish Wine Dinner is hosted by Seville Quarter, 130 E. Gov ernment St., at Apple Annie's and features food pairings selected by Seville Quarter's Executive Chef, Jason Duckworth, as well as fantastic wines from Winebow's Miguelito. The cost is $75 per person (gratuity not included.) A portion of the dinner sales will go directly to the USO. Reserva tions are required and will be limited to 80 guests. Make your reservations today by calling 434-6211.

led by Certified Yoga Instructor Donna Dickey, Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork by Claire Lawry, LMT, and Sound Bath Healing & Song led by Brooke Camp and Stephanie Harris all accom panied by music from DJ Swayló. Event is 5-9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9, at Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel, 400 Bayfront Parkway. Tickets are $175. Details available at iamabode.com/shop/fullmoon.

FINE WINE FRIDAY Visit The Nest General Store at 11 S. Palafox, Ste. C, on the first Friday of every month for a wine tasting from 6-8 p.m. It's $35 a person and includes charcuterie and the op portunity to try their monthly wine club offerings in house. Visit thenestgeneralstore.com/events for more information.

MONTHLY WINE TASTING IN AGAPI GAR

ARAGON WINE TASTINGS Wine tastings at Aragon Wine Market are back every Thursday from 5-7 p.m. in store at 27 S. Ninth Ave. For more information, visit aragonwinemarket.com.

THURSDAY TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE 5 BARREL Gather a group for a weekly Thursday

The next Vino Magnifico is Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 5:30 p.m. Sample five different wines and socialize with other wine lovers at V. Paul's, 29 S. Palafox. Tickets are $15 and reservations are required. Visit vpauls.com for reservations.

VINO MAGNIFICO

DEN Visit Agapi Garden, at 555 Scenic Highway, from 5-7 p.m., to sample five wines for $10. For more information, call (850) 813-5683.

SUNDAY FUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE WELL

Trivia Night Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. at The 5 Barrel. There will be prizes for every round and select drafts for $3. Find out more at facebook. com/the5barrel.

THURSDAY BIERGARTEN TRIVIA NIGHT

TASTE OF THE BEACH

SANGRIA AND TAPAS OLÉ OLÉ

The next Pensacola Cooks cooking class is 7-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7. Tickets are $50 per person. Bring your own beer or wine to drink at no extra charge. Pensacola Cooks is located at 4051 Barrancas Ave. For more information, visit facebook.com/pensacolacooks.

A TASTE OF GREECE Preorder your plate of authentic Greek food and desserts from the bak ers and chefs behind Pensacola Greek Festival. Pick up orders Oct. 7 and 8 at 1720 W. Garden St. For details and to make an order, visit taste-ofgreece-pensacola.square.site.

CLASSIC MONSTERS MURDER MYSTERY

SHOW Improbable Cause Mystery Theatre brings you our Classic Monsters Murder Mys tery: Monster Mash, Sunday, Oct. 9 at 6 p.m. at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Seating is limited. Order your tickets now! $29 per seat general admission. Details at facebook. com/perfectplainbrewingco.

SECOND ANNUAL BRUNCHFEST Get your brunch on Sunday, Oct. 9, for the Second Annual BrunchFest at Seville Quarter, 230 E. Govern ment St. All proceeds from this event benefit over 5,000 club kids from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. Tickets are $15-$45 and avail able on Eventbrite.

HUNTER'S FULL MOON DINNER AND

YOGA Full Moon (Hunter's Moon) Farm-to-Ta ble Dinner & Yoga features a farm-to-table dinner and 90 minutes of nourishing Restorative Yoga

The 13th Annual Taste of the Beach kicks off Friday night, Oct. 14, with a special, island-elegant, progressive VIP Dinner experience. Diners will indulge in a four-course meal with complimentary wine pairings. A pri vate trolley will whisk diners away to four of the island's premier restaurants for a true coastal flavor experience. Saturday's free outdoor festi val takes place Oct. 15 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with 18 Pensacola Beach restaurants offering signature dishes for $8 each at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more information, visit pensacolabeachchamber. com/taste-of-the-beach-2022.

WSRE WINE & FOOD CLASSIC The WSRE PBS Wine & Food Classic returns this fall with a walkabout tasting from 6-9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15, at the SCI Building, 220 W. Garden St. Proceeds will support the public television sta tion's local productions and delivery of PBS pro gramming and educational resources. Tickets for the WSRE PBS Wine & Food Classic will be $50. To purchase, visit wsre.org/wfc.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL SATURDAYS Support your favorite college football teams at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Wear your game day gear and get 15% off your beer tab. Visit facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

SAINTS SUNDAYS Deck out in your game day gear and watch your team on the big screen at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Get 15% off your tab when dressed in Saint's game day gear. Sundays Aug. 13-Jan. 8. Visit facebook. com/perfectplainbrewingco for details.

The Well, located at 42 E. Garden St., has ex panded its offerings with a Sunday Funday Brunch cocktail menu including items such as Spicy Paloma made with Mezcal, a cold brew cocktail with Irish whiskey, a cucumber-infused spritz and a Bloody Mary spiced with house-made hot sauce and garnished with fresh pickled vegetables. Price range is $9-$12. Brunch hours are Sundays from noon-4 p.m. Other small plate offerings are avail able Thursday-Saturday from 4 p.m.-one hour before closing. For more information, visit face book.com/thewellpensacola.

BAYOU BUZZ COFFEE TASTING TOUR

Seville Savories Food Tour will host a coffee tour of downtown Pensacola Tuesdays-Fridays from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Tickets are available online at se villesavoriesfoodtour.com.

WINE WEDNESDAY Visit The Nest General Store at 11 S. Palafox, Ste. C, every Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. for a wine happy hour. Deals include $1 off listed by-the-glass wines, a waived corking fee, charcuterie plates and a $15 'wine flight' op tion. Visit thenestgeneralstore.com/events for more information.

WEEKNIGHT HAPPY HOUR Every weeknight before 6 p.m. at The 5 Barrel, get $1 off all The 5 Barrel pints, $2 wine by the glass and half off hummus plates when you buy a pint of beer. Visit the5barrel.com for more information.

TABLETOP TUESDAYS AT THE 5 BARREL

Join The 5 Barrel for a special Tabletop Tuesday event at 6 p.m. every Tuesday in March. A wide variety of games ranging from the classic chess to the crowd favorite Catan will be available. Players are welcome to bring their own games.

Gary's Brewery Trivia Night is back by popular demand. Thursdays from 7-9 p.m., test your trivia skills with a glass of beer or wine. Arrive early to grab a spot. Gary's Brewery is located at 208 Newman Ave. For more information, visit face book.com/garysbrew.

FINE WINE FRIDAY Visit The Nest General Store the first Friday of every month for a wine tasting from 6-8 p.m. Tickets are $35 per per son and includes charcuterie and the opportu nity to try our monthly Wine Club offerings in house. Visit thenestgeneralstore.com/events for more information.

PALAFOX MARKET Palafox Market is back at its regular location in MLK Jr. Plaza. In a carefully planned, phased reopening, Palafox Market has launched with about half its regular vendors, showcasing food, farm produce and products geared toward safety and sanitation such as handmade soaps and face masks. For more information, visit facebook.com/down townpensacola.

EVER'MARKET AT NINE MILE ROAD Visit

Ever'Man at 1000 E. Nine Mile Road on the fourth Saturday of each month for the Ever'Market with food, music, giveaways, activities and more. Visit everman.org for more information.

200 SOUTH SMALL BUSINESS SATUR DAY Every first Saturday of the month, the businesses at 200 South will host Small Busi ness Saturday to show support for local busi nesses. Bring a receipt from a purchase from any other downtown business and receive 10% off your bill at Graffiti Pizza, World of Beer, Taco Agave and Blend Lounge.

a&e happenings

PENSACOLA POSITIVITY'S SUNDAY

MARKETS Sunday Markets on Palafox Street happen each Sunday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in MLK Plaza on Palafox. Local makers, growers and cre ators gather each under the oak trees to sell their goods to the community. Interested vendors can request an application by emailing requeaskmikel lah@gmail.com. For more information, visit face book.com/palafoxmarkets.

SATURDAYS AT THE MARKET OUTDOOR

VENDOR EVENT Located at 5300 Berryhill Road, the outdoor market features artisans and crafters alike from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Social distancing guidelines will be in effect. For more information, email saturdaysatthemar ket@gmail.com.

PENSACOLA POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

Check out fresh and organic produce, milk, eggs, meat, fresh-baked bread, mushrooms, lumber, grits, cornmeal, pies and plants Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at East Hill Market, located at 1216 N. Ninth Ave. For a list of vendors, visit facebook. com/easthillmarket.

UPTOWN PENSACOLA MARKET Check out local vendors of art, produce and other local trea sures every Saturday at 7201 N. Ninth Ave. from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit facebook. com/uptownmarketpensacola.

TWILIGHT THREE-COURSE SPECIAL The District's Twilight Three-Course special is back Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4:306 p.m. Guests enjoy three courses for $35 per person. Diners must be seated by 6 p.m. for offer to be valid. To make a reservation, call (850) 3325224, or go to districtstreaks.com. The District is located at 123 E. Government St.

LIVE MUSIC

WSRE'S STUDIOAMPED After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, WSRE's "Studio Amped" music series will return with five free concerts in the Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, located at 1000 College Blvd. The final performance is Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival show on Friday, Oct. 7. All shows start at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is free, and donations for Manna Food Pantries are en couraged and collected at the door. Visit wsre. org for details.

PENSACOLA BEACH SONGWRITERS

BANDS ON THE BEACH Join Santa Rosa Island Authority for free weekly concerts every Tuesday night from 7-9 p.m. at the Gulfside Pa vilion on Pensacola Beach. On Tuesday, Oct. 11, is String Farm.

WOODY & SUNSHINE, HONEY DAZE, SLOTH RACER Woody & Sunshine, Honey Daze and Sloth Racer are performing at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Tickets are available at thehandlebar850.com.

RUNGE STRINGS ORCHESTRA The Univer sity of West Florida and the Dr. Grier Williams School of Music presents the Runge Strings Or chestra in concert on Thursday, Oct. 6 at 6 p.m. The concert will be held in Holy Cross Episco pal Church, 7979 N. Ninth Ave. The event is free and open to the public and no tickets are required. For more information, visit uwf.edu/ cfpa or call 857-6285.

WHITE TIE ROCK ENSEMBLE Enjoy a musical tribute to Southern rock. Show is 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 at Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Tickets available at pensacolabaycenter.com.

BLACK JACKEY SYMPHONY Hear Van Halen tunes as never before 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. Tickets are $30$35. Visit pensacolasaenger.com for details.

WEIRD AL Weird Al will perform at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox, Sunday, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $39 and up. Visit pensacolasaenger. com for details.

JAZZ IN THE AFTERNOON Enjoy a free af ternoon jazz concert hosted by Joe Occhipinti at The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N. DeV illiers St., 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 11.

UWF SINGERS University of West Florida's Dr. Grier Williams School of Music presents the UWF Singers in their Bon Voyage Concert. The per formance will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 7:30 p.m., in the Rolf's Music Hall at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, 11000 University Parkway, Bldg. 82. The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. For tickets or more infor mation, visit uwf.edu/cfpa.

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS

The Pensacola Beach Songwrit ers Festival is Oct. 6-9 at various venues on Pensacola Beach. Hear songs from the people who wrote them and hear the stories behind the songs. Visit pensacolabeachsongwritersfestival. com for more information.

FESTIVAL

JAZZ FROM ACROSS THE POND Choral Society of Pensacola showcases music by two British composers, George Shearing's "Songs and Sonnets" and Bob Chilcott's "A Little Jazz Mass," and also features some jazz from the USA with songs by Strayhorn, Arlen/Mercer and Dennis/Adair. Program is 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, at Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 S. I St. Tickets are $5-$25 and avail able at choralsocietyofpensacola.org.

AVENUE Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue will be playing at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox, 8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 12. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased at vinylmusichall.com.

UWF SYMPHONIC BAND

The UWF Sym phonic Band will be in concert Thursday, Oct. 13, at 7:30 p.m. The concert will be held in the Mainstage Theatre at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, 11000 University Parkway, Bldg. 82. The event is free and open to the pub lic but tickets are required. For tickets or more information, visit uwf.edu/cfpa.

CELLOIST MISHA QUINT

The University of West Florida Dr. Grier Williams School of Music presents Misha Quint, cello, on Monday, Oct. 17, at 7:30 p.m., at the Rolfs Music Hall at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Bldg. 82, located at

404 E. Wright St. • (850) 324-6571

Best Wedding Hair Stylist Tonya Penrose Runner Up Best Jennifer Martin

winner BEST WEDDING HAIR SALON runner up BEST HAIR SALON

a&e happenings

11000 University Parkway. Ticket prices are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors and military, $14 for UWF faculty and staff and non-UWF students and $7 for high school students. UWF students get in free with a valid Nautilus card. For more information or to reserve tickets, contact the CFPA Box Office at (850) 857-6285 or online at uwf.edu/tickets.

MONDAY NIGHT BLUES AT SEVILLE

QUARTER Blues Society of Northwest Florida and Seville Quarter present Monday Night Blues, the longest running weekly Blues Jam in Florida, starting at 7 p.m. with an opening and followed by the Blues Jam at 9 p.m. Seville Quarter is lo cated at 130 E. Government St. For more infor mation, visit sevillequarter.com.

PENSACOLA PICK NIGHT AT ODD COLONY

Music pickers of all levels are invited to play at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox, from 7-9 p.m. every last Monday of the month. Bring your acoustic instrument and jam. Visit facebook. com/oddcolony for details.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AT PERFECT

PLAIN Head to Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St., on Thursdays from 7-10 p.m. through September. Visit facebook.com/per fectplainbrewingco for more information.

LIVE MUSIC AT RED FISH BLUE FISH PEN

SACOLA BEACH Head to Red Fish Blue Fish for live performances from local bands all day on

Fridays and Saturdays. For musician lineups, visit facebook.com/redfishbluefishpensacolabeach.

JOE OCCHIPINTI JAZZABOUTS Catch Joe Occhipinti and guests at Alice's Restaurant & Wine Bar, 1504 W. Intendencia St., Wednesdays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and at Calvert's Restau rant & Bar, 670 Scenic Highway, Sundays from noon-3 p.m.

SAXOPHONIST JIM ANDREWS AT ALICE'S RESTAURANT Saxophonist Jim Andrews will be performing at Alice's Restaurant, located at 1504 W. Intendencia St., on the first Friday of every month from 6-9:30 p.m.

JAZZ BY THE BOOK Join Joe Occhipinti and the Jazzabouts at the Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St., every Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. for clas sic jazz favorites.

RAY COLEY AT CAZADORES MEXICAN

RESTAURANT Ray Coley performs oldies mix with jazz and blues every weekend with keyboard, horn and flute. Fridays and Saturdays from 6-9 p.m. and a jazz set on Sundays from 12-3 p.m. on the patio at Cazadores Mexican restaurant, lo cated at 8183 W. Fairfield Dr. Weather permitting.

CURT BOL JAZZ QUARTET Visit Five Sis ters Blues Café, located at 421 W. Belmont St., Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and listen to Curt Bol Jazz Quartet. Visit curtbolband.com for more information.

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

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

LIVE MUSIC SATURDAYS AT THE WELL

Visit The Well, 42 E. Garden St., on Saturdays from 4-7 p.m. for live music. Visit facebook. com/thewellpensacola for more information.

LIVE MUSIC AT HUB STACEY'S Sit back with good food and live music at Hub Stacey's, located at 312 E. Government St. For a full calendar of bands, check hubstaceys.com.

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

TUESDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT SEVILLE QUARTER Enjoy smooth jazz with Melodious Allen and The Funk Heads every Tuesday night

at Lili Marlene's in Seville Quarter, located at 130 E. Government St. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Visit sevillequarter.com for more information.

FITNESS + RECREATION

CHAIR YOGA AT THE SOUTHWEST LIBRARY Join Southwest Library for an hour of stretching and breathing exercises that can be performed while seated, 4:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 6. Southwest Library is located at 2248 Gulf Beach Highway.

DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Over 48 teams supported by thousands of spectators will be competing for bragging rights in the 8th Annual Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 8, at Bayview Park, 2001 E. Lloyd St. Visit pensacoladragonboatfestival.com.

2022 RACE FOR INCLUSION Race for Inclu sion is a statewide event that raises funds to help provide sports training and competition, critical health services and life-changing leader ship programs to nearly 60,000 Special Olym pics Florida athletes across the state and in your neighborhood. Pensacola's race is 9:15 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 8, at the UWF Rec Plex, 11000 University Parkway. Day-of registration is 7 a.m. Visit give.specialolympicsflorida.org.

free will astrology

WEEK

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): When you Ar ies folks are at your best, you are drawn to people who tell you exactly what they think, who aren't intimidated by your high energy, and who dare to be as vigorous as you. I hope you have an array of allies like that in your sphere right now. In my astrological opinion, you especially need their kind of stimulation. It's an excellent time to invite influences that will nudge you out of your status quo and help you glide into a new groove. Are you willing to be challenged and changed?

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Author Toni Morrison thought that beauty was "an absolute necessity" and not "a privilege or an indulgence." She said that "finding, incorporating and then representing beauty is what humans do." In her view, we can't live without beauty "any more than we can do without dreams or oxygen." All she said is even truer for Tauruses and Libras than the other signs. And you Bulls have an extra wrinkle: It's optimal if at least some of the beauty in your life is useful. Your mandate is summed up well by author Anne Michaels—"Find a way to make beauty necessary; find a way to make necessity beautiful." I hope you'll do a lot of that in the coming weeks.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): Philosopher Alfred North Whitehead said, "It requires a very unusual mind to make an analysis of the obvi ous." I nominate you to perform that service in the coming days, both for yourself and your allies. No one will be better able than you to dis cern the complexities of seemingly simple situ ations. You will also have extraordinary power to help people appreciate and even embrace paradox. So be a crafty master of candor and transparency, Gemini. Demonstrate the benefits of being loyal to the objective evidence rather than to the easy and popular delusions. Tell the interesting truths.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): Cancerian poet Lucille Clifton sent us all an invitation: "Won't you celebrate with me what i have shaped into a kind of life? i had no model. i made it up here on this bridge between starshine and clay, my one hand holding tight my other hand." Dur ing October, fellow Cancerian, I propose you

By Rob Brezsny

draw inspiration from her heroic efforts to create herself. The coming weeks will be a time when you can achieve small miracles as you bolster your roots, nourish your soulful confidence and ripen your uniqueness.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): "Dear Rob the Astrologer: This morning I put extra mousse on my hair and blow-dried the hell out of it, so now it is huge and curly and impossibly ir resistible. I'm wearing bright orange shoes so everyone will stare at my feet, and a blue silk blouse that is much too high-fashion to wear to work. It has princess seams and matches my eyes. I look fantastic. How could anyone of any gender resist drinking in my magnificence? I realize you're a spiritual type and may not ap prove of my showmanship, but I wanted you to know that what I'm doing is a totally valid way to be a Leo. —Your Leo teacher Brooke." Dear Brooke—Thank you for your helpful instruction! It's true that I periodically need to loosen my tight grip on my high principles. I must be more open to appreciating life's raw feed. I hope you will perform a similar service for everyone you encounter in the coming weeks.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): How to be the best Virgo you can be during the coming weeks—1. You must relish, not apologize for, your precise obsessions. 2. Be as nosy as you need to be to discover the core truths hidden beneath the surface. Risk asking almost too many ques tions in your subtle drive to know everything. 3. Help loved ones and allies shrink and heal their insecurities. 4. Generate beauty and truth through your skill at knowing what needs to be purged and shed. 5. Always have your Bullshit Detector with you. Use it liberally. 6. Keep in close touch with the conversations between your mind and body.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): The Libran ap proach to fighting for what's right shouldn't involve getting into loud arguments or trying to manipulate people into seeing things your way. If you're doing what you were born to do, you rely on gentler styles of persuasion. Are you doing what you were born to do? Have you become skilled at using clear, elegant language to say what you mean? Do you work on behalf of the best outcome rather than merely serving your

ego? Do you try to understand why others feel the way they do, even if you disagree with their conclusions? I hope you call on these superpow ers in the coming weeks. We all need you to be at the height of your potency.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): "One bad apple spoils the rest" is an idiom in the English language. It refers to the idea that if one apple rots as it rests in a pile of apples, the rest will quickly rot, too. It's based on a scientific fact. As an apple decays, it emanates the gas ethylene, which speeds up decay in nearby apples. A vari ant of this idiom has recently evolved in relation to police misconduct, however. When law en forcement officials respond to such allegations, they say that a few "bad apples" in the police force aren't representative of all the other cops. So I'm wondering which side of the metaphor is at work for you right now, Scorpio. Should you immediately expunge the bad apple in your life? Or should you critique and tolerate it? Should you worry about the possibility of contamination, or can you successfully enforce damage control? Only you know the correct answer.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): More than you might realize, people look to you for leadership and regard you as a role model. This will be extra true in the coming weeks. Your statements and actions will have an even big ger impact than usual. Your influence will ripple out far beyond your sphere. In light of these developments, which may sometimes be subtle, I encourage you to upgrade your sense of respon sibility. Make sure your integrity is impeccable. Another piece of advice, too—be an inspiring example to people without making them feel like they owe you anything.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): Rappersongwriter Nicki Minaj says, "You should never feel afraid to become a piece of art. It's exhila rating." I will go further, Aquarius. I invite you to summon ingenuity and joy in your efforts to be a work of art. The coming weeks will be an ideal time for you to tease out more of your inner beauty so that more people can benefit from it. I hope you will be dramatic and expressive about showing the world the full array of your interest ing qualities. P.S. Please call on the entertain ment value of surprise and unpredictability.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): Of all the signs in the zodiac, you Sagittarians know best how to have fun even when life sucks. Your daily rhythm may temporarily become a tangle of boring or annoying tasks, yet you can still sum mon a knack for enjoying yourself. But let me ask you this—how are your instincts for drumming up amusement when life doesn't suck? Are you as talented at whipping up glee and inspiration when the daily rhythm is smooth and groovy? I suspect we will gather evidence to answer those questions in the coming weeks. Here's my pre diction—The good times will spur you to new heights of creating even more good times.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): Author Rob ertson Davies declared, "One learns one's mystery at the price of one's innocence." It sounds poetic, but it doesn't apply to most of you Pisceans—especially now. Here's what I've concluded—the more you learn your mystery, the more innocent you become. Please note I'm using the word "innocence" in the sense defined by au thor Clarissa Pinkola Estés. She wrote: "Ignorance is not knowing anything and being attracted to the good. Innocence is knowing everything and still being attracted to the good."

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: Reward yourself with a gift for an accomplishment few people know about. Testify at newsletter.freewillastrology.com {in}

Brezsny

try to understand why others feel the way they do, even if you disagree with

news of the weird

HOLDING A GRUDGE A family is seeking to press charges against an unnamed man who was briefly married to their mom in the 1970s, the New York Post reported. Their beef? Allegedly, the New Jersey man arrives at Linda Torello's tombstone in Orangetown, New York, early al most every morning with his current wife in tow, where he urinates on her grave and sometimes leaves a bag of excrement. Torello died in 2017, according to her son, Michael Andrew Murphy, 43. In April of this year, he and his sister dis covered a bag of poop and supposed a dog walker had dropped it. When the second bag showed up, they called police. Then they went to work, setting up a trail camera that recorded the man's visits, and on Sept. 18, taking video with a cellphone that identified him as Torello's onetime husband. "My sister was crying ... I was sick I was so angry," Murphy said. "No one in my family has had contact with him since 1976 or so." Police have been unhelpful; Murphy said he's called them three times and they won't put him in touch with a detective.

EWWWWWW Amanda Gommo, 51, of Bristol, England, required hospitalization after an un fortunate incident involving her daughter's Chi huahua, Belle, the Daily Mail reported on Sept. 26. As Gommo and Belle cuddled together during a nap, Belle suffered "violent diarrhea," some of which fell into Gommo's open mouth. "It was disgusting, and I was hurling violently for hours after—I just couldn't get the taste out of my mouth," Gommo said. Afterward, she suffered stomach cramps so bad that two days later, she went to the hospital, where doctors discovered an infection that had been passed on by the dog. "I'm happy to say both me and Belle are on the mend," she said, but noted that she'll "be more mindful of what position we sleep in in the future."

BRIGHT IDEAS Can't sleep? Pack your bags and head for Sussex, England, where you can spend a night next summer in a "luxurious" double bed at the Shleep Sanctuary, according to the Daily Star. As you drift away, numbered actual sheep will mill around the grassy hillside outside the glass dome enclosing your bed. Emma Sleep, a tech company, is offering the one-night stay, which includes dinner, morning yoga and break fast. "Counting sheep is more than an old wives' tale," said Dr. Dennis Schmoltzi, CEO. "It's a tried-and-true visualization technique that Brits are relying on to send them to sleep." Zzzzzzz.

•From the "make your resume stand out" files: Karly Pavlinac Blackburn, 27, of Wilmington, North Carolina, was recently laid off from her job, the New York Post reported. Hoping to land a position with Nike in Beaverton, Oregon, and knowing they'd be celebrating Just Do It Day on Sept. 8, Blackburn cooked up a plan: Working with Albertson's Grocery Store, she ordered a sheet cake with an edible resume printed

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

on top. Next, she talked with Instacart driver Denise Baldwin, who promised her she would "do whatever it takes to get this cake to where it needs to be." Sure enough, Baldwin delivered the sweet treat into the appropriate hands, and Blackburn has meetings on the calendar with the sportswear brand—and more. "There are a bunch of companies that are kind of involved in the process," she revealed.

THE NEIGHBORS (NAKED EDITION) The obvious question is: Why are there so many naked people outdoors these days? On Sept. 25 in McMinnville, Oregon, KOIN-TV reported, an "unclothed male subject" was in his front yard, which drew the ire of his across-the-street neighbor. The neighbor launched two full beer cans, hitting the naked man's house, which prompted him to go inside to retrieve a shot gun. The neighbor grabbed a handgun and shot five shots into the ground in an effort to scare the naked man. No one was hurt, but the beer thrower was cited for criminal mischief.

SWEET REVENGE Porch pirates in a south Austin, Texas, neighborhood are driving resi dents crazy, KXAN-TV reported. The same people in the same car are hitting front stoops day and night, so a woman identified only as Gabriela came up with a plan. Her husband put a box of used, dirty diapers on the porch, and sure enough, "The same people came back and took the package," she said. Unfortunately, they "came back and smeared those diapers on our front door. Thirty minutes later, they came back with a giant bag of cow manure. They spread that all over our front porch and on our cars in the driveway. I called police, filed a report, and now there's a detective on the case." Britany Walker, who lives near Gabriela, confronted the thieves herself, yelling, "I have a baby," but she said they just laughed at her. "It was a really up setting moment." Austin police advise against engaging with the suspects.

WAIT, WHAT? In January, Reebok introduced a new sneaker in collaboration with the French luxury brand Maison Margiella. The Classic Leather Decortique Tabi Low is distinctive for its "toe cleavage" design—and now, Indy100 reported, for being identified as a sign of the devil. A Facebook page called Prophecy News warned followers on Sept. 19 that the shoes resemble the feet of Baphomet, a goat deity associated with the occult. Reebok's Instagram account has drawn similar reactions: "This is so satanic!! My family will never buy another shoe from you," one follower wrote. Another said, "Satanic, no way will I ever wear those." Reebok counters that the shoes are based on a tradi tional Japanese shoe design called tabi. {in}