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434-9200 | clarkpartington.com
PHOENIX FARNHAM The University of West Florida graduate student was selected from 135 applicants nationwide as one of only six students chosen for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency's (DPAA) first-ever paid internship program. The internship took place at DPAA's laboratory at Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Neb., where Farnham spent the summer collecting data for her master's thesis on co-mingling—the intermixing of human remains. Her research contributed to the agency's mission of recovering and identifying fallen service members. During the program, Farnham collaborated with historians, investigators and other professionals supporting the DPAA mission. In recognition of her contributions, she received a challenge coin—a military tradition recognizing outstanding achievement.
ASHLEY SABA FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance announced Saba has joined as Director of Business Development, a newly created position focused on recruiting new industries to Escambia County. In this role, Saba will strengthen marketing efforts and investor relations, and advance economic growth initiatives. A member of the Inweekly Rising Stars class of 2024, Saba graduated from Tate High School in 2005 and later earned degrees at Pensacola State College and the University of West Florida. She previously held roles in market development for Florida Blue and Buffalo Rock Company. FloridaWest CEO Chris Platé said, "Ashley's knowledge of the area and strong business experience will be critical in attracting new companies, bringing capital investment and high-wage job opportunities to our community."
MARTHA SAUNDERS For the third consecutive year, the University of West Florida set a new enrollment record. Its fall enrollment is 15,666. Interim UWF President Manny Diaz told the News Journal the growth was due to the popularity of the new civil engineering and other engineering programs, internships, affordability, retention efforts and UWF athletics. Inweekly credits former UWF President Dr. Martha Saunders, who didn't let the political insanity of her last semester interfere with her passion for the university. This is Saunders' achievement. Diaz can take credit for whatever happens next.
JOSEPH LADAPO Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo announced on Sept. 3 that the state will work to eliminate all vaccine mandates, including those requiring children to be vaccinated for school attendance. Speaking at a Tampa-area news conference, Ladapo compared vaccine mandates to slavery, stating, "Every last one of them is wrong and drips with disdain and slavery." Florida would become the first state to eliminate all such mandates, which currently cover diseases like measles, polio, chickenpox and hepatitis B. Public health experts condemned the move, with former CDC acting director Richard Besser calling it "absolutely frightening." The state health department can repeal some mandates, while others require legislative action. Reacting to Ladapo's announcement, State Sen. Carlos Smith (D-Orlando) tweeted, "Today is a great day for chickenpox, measles and polio in Florida."
PAUL RENNER The former Florida House Speaker has $1 million in his PAC to launch his campaign to be Florida's next governor. Renner is running as a pro-DeSantis, pro-Trump Republican, aiming to build on their legacies. He has an extensive military background as a retired U.S. Navy commander who served in the Gulf War in 1991 and in Afghanistan in 2011. However, President Trump has endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds, who has $25 million in his war chest. Gov. DeSantis publicly stated he won't support Renner. If the governor endorses anyone, it will likely be his wife Casey or Lt. Gov. Jay Collins. Sorry, Mr. Renner—friendships don't last long in your political world.
CRACKER BARREL The Tennessee-based restaurant chain unveiled a redesigned, minimalist logo on Aug. 18, removing the iconic "Uncle Herschel" figure and barrel imagery that had defined the brand since 1977. Conservative critics accused the company of going "woke" and abandoning traditional values. The attacks went viral. The backlash caused sales to decline and stock prices to drop 7-15%. On Aug. 26, after Trump publicly urged the company to revert the changes, Cracker Barrel announced it would restore the beloved "Old Timer" logo, stating it had listened to customer feedback.
By Rick Outzen
The announcement came during a press event at Grace Christian School in Valrico, Fla. Gov. Ron DeSantis, flanked by Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, declared their intention to end all state vaccine mandates for children. Vaccination would be classified as a parental right.
"The Florida Department of Health, in partnership with the governor, is going to be working to end all vaccine mandates in Florida. All of them," Ladapo proclaimed. "Every last one of them is wrong and drips with disdain and slavery."
With the zeal of a revival tent preacher, he said, "Your body is a gift from God. What you put into your body is because of your relationship with your body and your God."
What is the "slavery" Ladapo wants abolished? Florida has immunization requirements for children entering daycare and preschool. Those requirements include vaccinations for such things as DTaP (diphtheria-tetanus-acellular-pertussis), polio, measles-mumps-rubella and chicken pox. The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) also has a series of requirements for children attending kindergarten through 12th grade. The state has a process for religious and medical exemptions from the requirements.
Some vaccination mandates can be removed by DeSantis and Ladapo. However, the Florida Legislature will have to overturn laws governing vaccines like polio. Currently, Florida law mandates that children receive the polio vaccine to attend childcare and public or private K-12 schools.
The story of polio in America spans nearly a century. The first recognized epidemic occurred in Vermont in 1894, but the 1916 New York City outbreak awakened the nation to the disease's devastating potential. That summer, 27,363 cases resulted in 7,130 deaths, causing widespread panic that shuttered schools and pools, imposed quarantines, and had parents dreading the arrival of warm weather.
For decades, polio epidemics returned each summer. The disease peaked in 1952 with more than 21,000 cases nationwide, leaving thousands of children paralyzed or dependent on "iron lung" machines to breathe.
Dr. Jonas Salk developed the first effective polio vaccine, licensed in 1955, which led to rapid nationwide immunization and dramatic decline in cases. In 1961, Dr. Albert Sabin licensed an oral polio vaccine, which allowed mass vaccination campaigns nationwide and further sup -
pressed transmission. Paralytic polio cases in the U.S. fell to just 61 by 1965.
Twenty years later, Rotary International launched an ambitious campaign to eradicate polio worldwide. Rotary Clubs in the Greater Pensacola area raised funds for the PolioPlus program, joining Rotary's global network of over 1.4 million members across 46,000+ clubs.
The results were staggering: over 2.5 billion children immunized in 122 countries, a 99.9% reduction in polio cases, and an estimated 650,000 cases of paralysis prevented each year. In 1994, the Americas became the first region certified polio-free.
As DeSantis also announced the establishment of a Florida MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) advisory committee led by First Lady Casey DeSantis and Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, the Florida Medical Association, representing more than 23,000 physicians, voiced support for childhood vaccinations.
"The FMA unequivocally supports the vaccination and immunization of school-aged children against diseases that decades ago proved life-threatening to our kids," the organization stated, pointing to years of research proving vaccines' safety and efficacy.
Florida's physicians understand that maintaining high vaccination coverage isn't about individual choice—it's about community protection. Those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons depend on the immunity of others to stay safe.
Polio still exists in other countries, creating an ongoing risk of reintroduction through international travel. Afghanistan and Pakistan remain endemic, and recent outbreaks in parts of Africa and Asia serve as reminders that polio hasn't been completely vanquished.
As the political battle over vaccine mandates intensifies, Florida's Republicans find themselves at a crossroads. Do they add polio vaccines to the ever-growing list of "anti-woke" items? Or will medical science prevail?
As Rotary volunteers around the world continue their tireless work to deliver the final blow to polio, Florida lawmakers, ironically, may abandon the very tool that has brought humanity to the brink of victory against this crippling disease.
The outcome of this debate will determine whether Florida's children grow up in a world where polio remains an ancient memory or returns as a present-day threat. {in} rick@inweekly.net
Dave Murzin tackled his share of challenges, representing District 2 for eight years in the Florida House. None of those challenges could possibly have prepared him for what he is stepping into as Century's first town administrator.
"There are multiple challenges we have," said Murzin, who will be paid $112,000 a year plus benefits. "You can't pay a bill online if you're a Century resident for any of the services. We need to fix that. That requires updating technology. We need to improve communication everywhere. That's one of the things I'm going to do. I want to have some town hall meetings."
The Century town council approved his appointment by a 3-1 vote on Sept. 2, and the next morning Murzin began his first day with an impromptu meeting; the attendees were eight customers he encountered at the local Whataburger. Murzin said one of the customers recognized him from a newspaper article and invited him to meet with the group. Poverty in Century dominated the conversation.
"They started talking about how Century was and the challenges it faces," Murzin said. "No. 1 is generational poverty. The poverty rate is tremendous here. Section 8 housing is the big thing. There haven't been jobs here since the mill shut down. Now the way out is to join the military."
Built in 1901, the Alger-Sullivan Lumber Com
pany mill was a major driver of the local economy. The town was established around the mill to house and support its workers. The company's direct ownership ended in 1957, but the facility continued under new ownership until 1967.
Murzin said his priorities for the first 30 days on the job include meeting with Mayor Ben Boutwell, council members, employees and employers of Century and veterans who live in the town. He said he wants to see how the town can grow and he wants to make sure veterans are maximizing their potential benefits.
"Century needs a future," Murzin said. "It needs a hope."
When he represented Florida House District 2, Murzin prioritized health care, energy and tax reform. After he termed out in 2010, he ran for the Escambia County Commission District 2 seat held by Gene Valentino. He finished third with 22% of the vote behind Valentino (34%) and Karen Sindel (31%).
Before his 2002 election, Murzin served as a legislative aide to Florida House Majority Leader Jerry Maygarden. After leaving office, he served as Northwest Florida Director for State Sen. Greg Evers (2013-2016).
Murzin currently serves as the director of First Place Partners, helping with economic development in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. His future with First Place Partners is uncertain.
"I don't know who I would turn the keys over to," Murzin said. "I don't know how to separate those things yet, but I'm here to focus on Century."
Century needs every bit of his focus. Florida's Joint Legislative Auditing Committee first raised a red flag in 2017 about its finances, and the town has repeatedly failed to make corrections recommended in audits.
Audits have highlighted consistent cash flow problems, debts between town funds, recurring operating deficits and questionable use of restricted money—such as the general fund owing the special revenue fund nearly $3 million.
In 2019, a scathing Escambia County Grand Jury report, released by then-State Attorney Bill Eddins, exposed severe financial mismanagement in the Town of Century, painting a picture of a local government in crisis.
Launched after citizen complaints, the investigation revealed shocking failures in the town's utility operations. Century's natural gas system has hemorrhaged customers—dropping from 1,000 to just 500—while posting massive losses exceeding $300,000 annually. Most alarming, the town failed to bill customers for nearly 42% of the gas flowing through its system in 2018.
The financial dysfunction extended beyond utilities. The town failed to cover payroll checks or federal withholding deposits, while routine bills went unpaid. A clerk's dispute left utility customers without bills entirely. The grand jury issued 15 recommendations, including demands for a forensic audit and state investigations into misappropriated gas tax and sales tax funds.
Last year, FloridaCommerce pulled over $15 million in grant funding from Century for key projects like a hurricane shelter, bridges and a community center, citing the town's "financial and fiscal solvency issues." The grants were redirected to Escambia County. This decision was based on years of audit findings and concerns about the town's deteriorating financial condition and solvency.
Murzin will team up with Boutwell and the council to revitalize Century and put the ugly past in the rearview mirror. Boutwell took office in May after winning a special election with no opposition. He was first elected mayor in 2020, but he resigned in August 2023 after repeated disputes in the council, particularly former council president Luis Gomez Jr. Gomez followed Boutwell as mayor and served until resigning for medical reasons in January 2025.
His resignation opened the door for Boutwell to return to office and collaborate with a council that no longer included Gomez.
"It's totally different now. It's a different council," Boutwell said. "I don't like to hash the past, so I won't go there. I wasn't going to run,
but no one was stepping up, and I had several residents call me asking me if I would."
Boutwell served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, and he said the addition of two council members with military backgrounds means they "understand the concept of discipline, state of command, understand state laws and know what it takes to make the mission happen."
Boutwell said the right leadership is in place and that Century is a better place now that Murzin has been added as its town administrator.
"His knowledge of government affairs, his connections he has not only in the county but state and federal, is a big boost for the town of Century," Boutwell said. "He really opens doors for us."
Boutwell continued, "Dave is 24/7, and that's what this town needs. He'll be a leader by example. We're bringing Century to the 21st century and with Dave, we'll really be able to do that. We have a great partnership with Dave and the council."
After seeing the advertisement for the position, Murzin said he consulted with Boutwell, who wanted someone to focus on economic development and grow the town. During his first term as mayor, Boutwell helped the Brazilian company Algaplast Corp. establish its first U.S.-based operations in Century. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to expand its current workforce from five to possibly 10.
How Boutwell, Murzin and the revamped council attract other employers to Century will ultimately determine the town's fate.
"This was a big town when there was the mill and lumber was the No. 1 industry," Murzin said. "We need good employment. We have a commerce department. We need spec buildings."
Attracting employers is among a litany of challenges Murzin inherits as the town administrator. A town rocked by years of mismanagement is in desperate need of capable leaders and Murzin brings the governmental experience sorely lacking in Century.
"I have always believed in public service, and I believe this is just another extension of public service—me giving back to the community to help us grow," Murzin said. "This is another opportunity to look at the situation and say, 'What can I do to help?'" {in}
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site at theannplan.com that outlines an ambitious 19-point platform for the city.
Hill positions herself as a candidate focused on enhancing quality of life through preservation and improvement initiatives.
"Pensacola is a very unique, diverse and historic city etched on three sides by water," Hill stated on her website. "By focusing on our beauty, our culture, our neighborhoods and our history, we can enhance the quality of life for all Pensacolians."
Her "Ann Plan" encompasses infrastructure improvements like free parking downtown, upgraded city bus stops, and rebuilding the Malcolm Yonge Gym. Environmental initiatives include reopening The Bluffs, beautifying Long Hollow Pond, reclaiming Pensacola's "Tree City" designation, and restoring marine life including shrimp, oysters and fish. The plan also addresses housing affordability, mental health and rehabilitation services, and calls for lowering liens, taxes and fines.
Hill's platform stresses connectivity and accessibility, proposing expanded public access to boating, connected public waterfront areas, updated ADA infrastructure and enhanced heritage trails. She also pledges to establish a committee for the former Baptist Hospital site, strengthen relationships with military partners, champion first responders, and preserve America's First Settlement while protecting the city's diverse and historic neighborhoods.
Meanwhile, current Mayor D.C. Reeves remains undecided about seeking a second term, telling Inweekly's Rick Outzen that he's "hyperfocused" on current transformational projects for the city. When pressed about whether Hill would face opposition, Reeves acknowledged that "as of this moment, no" but emphasized he believes the mayoral position is too important to run unopposed.
Reeves, who considers the elected office an "eight-year job," stated any decision about reelec-
tion would be made as a family decision. He said, "I don't take for granted the support system around me. Doing this another four years is harder on some people than it is on me."
BOMBING Last month, the federal grand jury indictment of Justin J. Wright revealed that Escambia County Clerk Pam Childers was being extorted. The details of the plot and the June 2024 car bombing have been sealed until the FBI captures the ringleader.
During a June 25, 2024, interview that was livestreamed on YouTube, Bruce Childers, the clerk's husband, provided his account of the car bombing.
At approximately 4:20 a.m. on June 1, 2024, a car bomb exploded in the driveway of Childers' next-door neighbor, creating a fireball that shot 40 feet into the air and woke the entire neighborhood.
Bruce Childers distinguished the incident from typical arson cases. "This wasn't an arson case because I've handled arson cases, and when you use an accelerant, the accelerant burns and chars hotter than everything else; but this was a bomb."
He described watching surveillance footage in detail: "This guy pulled up in front of the only house on our street that had an active surveillance system that was recording. And he pulls up—guy about five foot six I guess, and we can see him get out and surveil the situation. He goes back to his van, he pulls something out, we can't see what it is. He goes back over to the people next door to us."
Childers added, "Long story short, he blows the car up. The fireball went 40 feet up in the air and, well, it woke me up, it woke the neighborhood up."
Both the Childers family and their neighbors owned white cars, leading him to believe the bomber targeted the wrong house. "We were all pretty convinced that it was the guy got the wrong house." he stated.
FBI agents, police and arson investigators arrived quickly at the scene. "The FBI showed up, the police showed up. The arson unit shows up that early that morning, and they were very convinced that the bomb was intended for us," Bruce said. According to both Bruce and Pam Childers, a death threat note was also left, which Pam indicated "was for me. It was a missed house."
REBUILDING D7 TRUST Pensacola is set to receive a $9.5 million state grant to renovate the Fricker Resource Center, a facility that has historically served the city's Black community. The concerns of gentrification and the rapidly changing Pensacola cityscape have led many residents to speak about the matter.
In an interview, community leader Haley
Morrissette said, "The Fricker Center is a staple in our community; you will hear a lot of people tell stories about hanging out there, playing basketball there, being a part of the programs that they have."
She added, "So it came out of left field for a lot of people when they were learning that they were planning renovations."
A community organizer since 2014, Morrissette served as a regional organizer with Dream Defenders and currently works with the 850 Civic Crew. She ran as a Democrat for Florida House District 2 in 2024 and describes herself as a "trusted advocate." She currently serves as the Director of Operations for Overflow Health Alliance, a nonprofit that provides holistic services to underserved and uninsured populations.
The grant to renovate the Fricker Center comes from Florida's Department of Commerce's Rebuild Florida Program. The aim of these funds is to prevent or reduce the damage from potential future disasters.
During a District 7 Town Hall with Councilman Delarian Wiggins last month, Mayor D.C. Reeves touted the renovations as "the largest single investment in the history of the City of Pensacola into one community center."
The planned renovation has been met with skepticism from some residents. In a July 23 community engagement meeting, resident Jermaine Williams said, "I've never seen the city of Pensacola dump $9 million into the Black community."
He also attended the August town hall, asking for District 7 residents to have seats at the table.
Speaking directly to Mayor Reeves and Councilman Wiggins, Williams said, "I propose that y'all have an oversight committee, at least put some of us in there … some of us in this district that have been here for years."
Morrissette understands William's position. She explained, "What the crux of the problem is, that in the past, when money gets poured into an area, it's to prepare for other people moving in rather than the people that stay there."
The demolition of the Malcolm Yonge gym contributes to those concerns. Morrissette said, "Malcolm Yonge and the way that happened is really what pushed people to have a huge distrust in our current government and our current leadership."
The Malcolm Yonge Gym was demolished in March 2024 after being declared structurally unsafe. Mayor Reeves is working with Pensacola Habitat for Humanity and the Community Land Trust to build affordable housing on the site.
Morrisette believes more transparency is needed to rebuild trust with District 7 residents.
"We have asked for programming for teenagers, and we want to make sure it has an enhanced senior facility," she said. "If [Mayor Reeves] greenlights a pickleball court at the Fricker Center, we'll know he wasn't thinking about the Black community—we have enough pickleball courts."
RENNER GOES FOR IT Former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner announced his candidacy for Florida governor, setting up a Republican primary challenge against Congressman Byron Donalds,
who already has President Trump's endorsement for the 2026 race.
Renner, who served as House Speaker from 2022 to 2024, positioned himself as the natural successor to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who cannot seek reelection due to term limits.
"As a legislator and speaker of the House, I stood with Ron DeSantis to brand our state the Free State of Florida," said Renner, a Navy veteran and attorney. "I'm running for governor so that when the DeSantis era comes to an end, we can defend our victories and solve the challenges that remain."
Renner pushed through the legislature the Florida Empowerment Scholarship Program, which expanded the school voucher program to all families, regardless of income, for privateschool tuition and homeschooling. The bill has created a significant exodus of students from public education.
Though the law was legislative primary for the Governor, DeSantis has quickly distanced himself from Renner's candidacy, calling it "an ill-advised decision" and stating he would not support the former speaker.
Donalds enters the race with significant advantages, including Trump's backing and endorsements from most of Florida's Republican congressional delegation. His political operation has already raised over $22 million as of mid-2024.
Political observers continue to speculate about potential entries from newly appointed Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis. On the Democratic side, former Congressman David Jolly is currently the only high-profile candidate to formally enter the gubernatorial race.
During his press conference on Sept. 3, Mayor D.C. Reeves provided updates on several projects. Pensacola's major airport terminal expansion is moving toward an October groundbreaking, with the mayor clarifying that the increased bond authorization from $100 million to $150 million represents financial cushioning rather than project scope expansion during his Wednesday press conference.
"When you look at any project that gets bonded, it's customary that it goes to a much higher number to ensure you're good. That doesn't mean that that's the commitment to spend," Reeves explained. Actual costs are projected between $107 and $112 million, with additional expenses driven by the complexity of maintaining airport operations during construction, including temporary infrastructure like "fake second floors" to keep TSA operations running.
The airport showed strong performance over Labor Day weekend with 51,750 passengers, a 9.2% increase over 2024, and new digital parking signage that helped manage Saturday's 95% lot capacity.
After an eight-month delay, agreements between the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation Florida have cleared the way for Bay Bluffs Park improvements. Public listening sessions will begin in October for the
$2.2 million grant allocation, with Reeves setting realistic expectations about the scope.
"There's not going to be a community center on the bluff," the mayor said, suggesting focus on primitive trails, pavilions and compliant lookouts.
Discussions with County Commissioner Lumon May persist as multiple deadlines approach, including expiring donation agreements and demolition bid timelines. Reeves emphasized his respect for the county commission's decision-making process while noting productive direct negotiations.
"All I ask is take the vote," Reeves said. "If it loses three-two or it loses four-one, I maintain, I respect that."
Maritime Park development shows mixed progress, with Lot 5 having a signed lease and millions invested, while Lot 4 faces significant parking complications. The challenge involves replacing 350 existing parking spaces while meeting current parking obligations.
"If you build something on Lot 4, then you've got to replace a parking lot," Reeves explained, calling it "a much more complex transaction" than Lot 5.
The mayor defended transitioning the Pensacola Motor Lodge property from a ground lease to a potential sale, maintaining that affordable housing requirements remain unchanged. The property has seen dramatic improvement in public safety, with zero police calls since closure compared to 2,300 calls over the previous decade.
However, the proposed purchase of a former medical center building on North Palafox collapsed when out-of-state owners refused preclosing city inspection. With code enforcement fines approaching $100,000, Reeves called it "the flagship of commercial blight in our city."
Several smaller projects are advancing. J. Green Construction won the Cobb Center repair contract. Portland Loo installations at the Blake Doyle Skatepark and MLK Plaza will proceed simultaneously this month, and the 12th and Fairfield intersection drainage project finished three weeks ahead of schedule, despite Main Street work delays from recent rains.
DIRECT FLIGHTS Last week, Breeze Airways launched service from the Pensacola International Airport to Bentonville-Fayetteville, Ark., and Memphis, Tenn.
"We are excited to welcome new nonstop service to Bentonville and Memphis with Breeze Airways," said Airport Executive Director Matt Coughlin. "Memphis offers a rich blend of history, culture and commerce, and this new route makes it easier than ever to connect our community with such an iconic destination. Northwest Arkansas is a region known for its thriving business community and vibrant culture. They are both great options for leisure and business travelers looking for convenience and accessibility from Pensacola International Airport."
Breeze Airways founder and CEO David Neeleman added, "Pensacola is a great example of an underserved market that is perfect for Breeze,
and these routes mark six nonstop destinations that our guests in the community can now travel to more conveniently than ever."
Breeze was recently named one of Fast Company's World's Most Innovative companies of 2025 for its fresh take on affordable flying that is transforming low-cost air travel into a nice experience. It was also named the No. 3 Best Domestic Airline by Travel + Leisure in 2025, placing Breeze in the list's top four every year since it began flying.
To learn more about Breeze or to book a flight, visit flybreeze.com or download the Breeze Airways app.
The University of West Florida's College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities announced this year's Gulf Coast Culture Series theme: Pensacola Noir. The Gulf Coast Culture (GCC) Series is an evolution of the longstanding Experience UWF Downtown Lecture Series. Launched in 2024, GCC expands beyond lectures to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the U.S. Gulf Coast Region through events linked by yearly themes.
Pensacola Noir is inspired by gritty crime fiction and film noir traditions and explores history, art and Southern Gothic storytelling through a mix of conversations, tours and lectures. By weaving together these themes, the series brings thought-provoking conversations into the public sphere while highlighting the creative depth of the Gulf Coast region.
"There is a deep history in literature, film and art of the Southern United States as a site of mystery, the gothic and crime," said Dr. David M. Earle, professor and dean of the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. "Florida is no exception, and this series will rely upon our local history and talent to explore such noir-ish dynamics."
This year's programming offers distinctive experiences that blend scholarship with cultural storytelling in ways not typically available to the public. From a roundtable with three of Pensacola's most prominent crime writers and a twilight cemetery tour exploring corners of the city's past, to a discussion on how "Murder, She Wrote" shaped pop culture's fascination with forensic science and a lecture on Southern Gothic photography by a nationally recognized curator, each event highlights how stories of crime, memory and art shape our understanding of place and identity.
The first event, Pensacola Crime Writers Roundtable, features three of Pensacola's leading crime writers—Mike Papantonio, author of "Middleman"; Rick Outzen, author of "City of Grudges"; and Corbett Davis Jr., author of "Dead Man's Fingers." Each author will share insights into their work, inspirations and how the noir tradition influences Gulf Coast storytelling. The event is Wednesday, Sept. 18, at the Museum of Commerce, 201 E. Zaragoza St. The reception will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by speakers at 6 p.m., Q&A at 7 p.m., and a book signing at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit uwf.edu/gulfcoastculture. {in}
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By Savannah Evanoff
Arguably the best part of fall festival season in Pensacola is the blend of favorite traditions with the excitement of new musicians to hear, food to try and culture to experience.
For example, the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival (GGAF)—a nonprofit and all-volunteer festival—has celebrated the arts in downtown Pensacola for 53 years, explained GGAF committee member Joy Ward. The 2025 festival poster, created by local painter Sarah Turner, pays tribute to the beauty of the Gulf Coast by depicting a heron nestled in sea oats turned into paint brushes.
"Every first weekend in November, historic Seville Square is transformed into a village of fine artists surrounded by heritage crafters and student art displays, live music and dance performances all with the aroma of perfectly spiced foods filling the air," Ward said. "It's a chance to get outside and shop for treasures, be entertained, visit with your neighbors and make new friends."
She puts extra emphasis on the word "shop."
"If you see a piece of artwork that speaks to you, buy it," Ward said. "It could be gone by the time you return ... And if you do decide to come back, first make a note of the artist's name, street name in the park and booth number, so you can find it again."
GGAF is familiar to many but new to some. Ward pointed out the GGAF international artist is new to Pensacola, and the emerging artist is new to participating in a fine art show. The 2025 Invited International Artist, Shinya Ishida, comes from Wakayama, Japan.
"2025 is the 30th anniversary of Florida and Wakayama becoming sister states and it's exciting that GGAF can help celebrate this special connection," Ward said. "Ishida's artwork brings new life to discarded materials and challenges his audience to find appreciation for lost or broken things."
The 2025 Emerging Artist, Jeanne LeGrand, resides in Pensacola and splits her time between creating art and working as a registered nurse.
"Her paintings have often been described as having ethereal or dreamlike qualities," Ward said. "She is drawn to the spiritual essence that lives in all creatures."
Ward hopes attendees will also take note of children's participation. GGAF promotes the arts by inviting local school children to create and display their artwork during the festival. The international artist will visit a few schools to talk about his work.
"GGAF offers an opportunity for college students majoring in art-related fields to earn scholarships," Ward added. "The Children's Festival is open Friday for children with special needs from selected schools and is open to everyone on Saturday and Sunday. The creative activities in the children's area are provided free of charge."
While GGAF is a longstanding Pensacola staple, Night Moves Fest—in its third year—is still relatively new. The one-day event brings fresh and rising indie music to Pensacola, such as this year's headliner Japanese Breakfast.
Robert Goodspeed, NMF founder and man-
ager of The Handlebar, said almost every band on the lineup was someone they'd inquired about in the past but couldn't quite get the stars to align for.
"We feel like all the artists on the package are bands we wish we could bring to The Handlebar and to the Gulf Coast in general," Goodspeed said. "Due to their size and lack of space to properly accommodate their fans, most of these bands have never had the chance to come through and we're really excited to give them and their fans an opportunity to see them without having to drive several hours away."
"Japanese Breakfast put out a fantastic new album this year and we're incredibly excited to be basically their first Florida show since before COVID." Goodspeed said.
Last year, they received feedback that sets weren't long enough, so they accommodated with slightly fewer bands this year, Goodspeed said. The lineup features Dashboard Confessional, Joyce Manor, Origami Angel, Wishy and MSPaint, along with local musicians Ben Loftin & the Family, Ego Death, Katie Dineen, Lights with Fire and Marigold's Apprentice.
Goodspeed is personally excited to see Wishy.
"We always want to include one strong upand-coming artist that we think is destined for some big stuff, and this year we think they're the one to not miss," Goodspeed said. "We're continuing with what worked for us last year with multiple stages and vendors and food trucks to make sure that the day is a fully immersive experience for all."
Gulf Coast Jazz Festival: Fall Edition
Sept. 18
gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com
Enjoy smooth jazz on the waterfront at Community Maritime Park with hours of live performances.
Latino Festival
Sept. 19
latinomediainc.com/latino-festival-2025
Celebrate 20 years of Latino culture in Pensacola with music, dancing, food and a vibrant mercado at Gallery Night.
Sept. 20
facebook.com/oddcolony
Join Odd Colony Brewing Co. for an ode to the traditional German fall festival featuring games, merch, a can and draught release of their Oddtoberfest lager and more.
Sept. 20
facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco
Celebrate all things Oktoberfest all day at Perfect Plain Brewing Co. with a costume contest, stein hoisting, beer chugging and live music from Wavy Winstons.
Into the Blue Festival: Tips & Tails
Sept. 20-21
intothebluefestival.com
This event includes mermaids, lionfish tastings, chef demos, conservation exhibits and more, all happening on the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk.
Pensacola Seafood Festival
Sept. 26-28
fiestapensacola.org/seafood-festival
Savor seafood, enjoy live music and shop from 150 arts and craft vendors at this annual event.
ComposerFest XX
Sept. 28
facebook.com/pscperformingarts
Hear world premieres and new works from local and regional composers at this annual celebration of original music.
Pensacola Beach
Songwriters Festival
Sept. 30-Oct. 12
pensacolabeachsongwritersfestival.com
Enjoy two weeks of performances from hit songwriters and local talent across downtown Pensacola and Pensacola Beach.
Danetoberfest
Oct. 4
facebook.com/nwflgdr
Celebrate with live music, food, vendors and plenty of Great Danes at the ninth annual rescue fundraiser.
Taste of the Beach
Oct. 9-11
pensacolabeachchamber.com/events/ tasteofthebeach
This three-day event showcases some of the best chefs and restaurants Pensacola Beach has to offer.
Festa Italiana
Oct. 10-11
buonafortunalodge.org/festa-italiana
Celebrate Italian culture with authentic food, live music, cultural demonstrations, kids' activities and more, all while supporting local scholarships and charitable causes.
Pensacola Interstate Fair
Oct. 16-26
pensacolafair.com
Enjoy a seasonal tradition packed with rides, music and plenty of fair food classics.
Barktoberfest
Oct. 18
pensacolahumane.org/barktoberfest
Bring your pup and support Pensacola Humane Society at this annual festival featuring vendors and pet-friendly activities.
September 11, 2025
Brunch Fest
Oct. 26
emeraldcoastbgc.org
Have brunch for a good cause at the fifth annual BrunchFest benefiting Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.
Foo Foo Fest
Oct. 30-Nov. 10
foofoofest.com
From a fresh new musical to an aerial art installation to the aforementioned Night Moves Fest, this year's Foo Foo Fest has something for everyone during its 12-day schedule.
Frank Brown International
Songwriters Festival
Nov. 6-16
frankbrownsongwriters.com
Celebrate the art of songwriting with nationally renowned and local talent at one of the largest festivals of its kind in the country.
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival
Nov. 7-9
ggaf.org
One of the nation's premier art shows, Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival features juried artists, performances, demonstrations and family fun.
Pensacola Greek Festival
Nov. 7-9
facebook.com/pensacolagreekfestival
Celebrate the 64th year of this Pensacola favorite with authentic Greek food, music and culture.
Beulah Crafts and Sausage Festival
Nov. 8
facebook.com/beulahcraftandsauagefestival
With more than 80 craft vendors, sausage straight off the grill, and homemade baked goods, this festival is as flavorful as it is charitable.
Night Moves
Nov. 8
nightmovesfest.com
Night Moves returns as part of Foo Foo Fest with a killer lineup featuring Japanese Breakfast, Dashboard Confessional and Joyce Manor.
Pensacola Fall Food Truck Fest
Nov. 15
apexshowsandevents.com
Taste your way through local food trucks while enjoying entertainment and family-friendly activities.
Pensacola Egg Fest
Nov. 16
pensacolaeggfest.com
Taste unique barbecue dishes while supporting local charities at this annual event. {in}
ROCK4VETS 5k run/walk with live DJ, food vendors and more. The race begins 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 at Community Maritime Park, 351 W. Cedar St. Details and registration at pensacolarock4vets.com.
PBS KIDS DAY AT GULFARIUM WSRE PBS will be at Gulfarium, 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy. for PBS Kids Day with Clifford the Big Red Dog and Carl the Collector 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13. Visit gulfarium.com for park fees and information.
PINK IN THE CITY ON THE BEACH Dining and entertainment benefit for several local nonprofits. Event is 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 with dining and entertainment at Corinne Jones-Sanders Beach Center, 913 S. I St. Tickets are $65 each. More details at akapinkinthecity@gmail.com.
TOTALLY RAD 80S DANCE PARTY AND ARC GATEWAY FUNDRAISER An adults-only dance party with 80s tunes 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16 at The Sanctuary, 716 N. Ninth Ave. Free registration at arc-gateway.org.
FILL THE TRUNK COMMUNITY DRIVE Gulf Coast Regional Mustang Club and USO Florida will host a community drive to collect items for USO centers 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 20 at Walmart, 2951 S. Blue Angel Pkwy. Following the drive there will be an exclusive car show 1:30-5 p.m. at NAS. Due to security requirements, the car show will only be open to those with base privileges. Details available at uso.org or email a local committee member at mo_pilgrim59@msn.com.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR THE 2025 FENNER RIDE Early registration is officially open for the 2025 Fenner Ride which takes place 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Registration is $45 for the 18- and 44-mile routes and $50 for the 62- and 100-mile routes. Prices increases by $5 after Oct. 10 at 11:59 p.m. Register at runsignup.com/race/ events/fl/milton/fennerride.
ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Animal
Allies Florida hosts bingo twice monthly at Beef 'O' Brady's, 1 New Market St., Cantonment (on Nine Mile Road near Pine Forest Road). The cost is 10 rounds of bingo for $10, with cash prizes for winners. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. For more information, visit facebook.com/animalalliesflorida.
ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN
ADOPTION Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.
CARING & SHARING MINISTRY FOOD
DRIVE The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens 10 a.m. and also has clothing. Food donations needed are pop-top canned goods, Beanie Weenies, Vienna sausage, potted meat, cans of tuna and chicken and soups. Clothing donations needed include tennis shoes for men and women, as well as sweatshirts and
new underwear for men in sizes small, medium and large. Call DeeDee Green at (850) 723-3390 for details.
2025 PIECES ADRIFT Keep Pensacola Beautiful is accepting submissions from artists for the Pieces Adrift Art Show & Auction. The goal of this event is to highlight works of art produced with reused or recycled items. You don't have to be an established artist to participate. All skill levels are welcome. The event is Saturday, Oct. 25. Planning is underway. This year, they will provide awards for different age categories created by an artist from Gulf Shores who makes art out of reused materials. If you're interested in serving on the committee, please email Vanesa at volunteer@keeppensacolabeautiful.org. If you would like to submit a piece of artwork for the upcoming show, fill out the form at form.jotform.com/251134246638153.
SEPTEMBER EXHIBIT TOURS Visit Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St., for an intimate tour of Gestalt of the Berth. The next tour is 5-6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
PERDIDO PALOOZA COMMUNITY PARTY
Community event with live music, local food trucks and more 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11 at Warrior Beery Company, 10605 Sorrento Road.
MOVIES IN THE SAND: TOY STORY Watch the 1995 Pixar film Friday, Sept. 12 at the Gulfside Pavilion. Movies start at sunset. Visit facebook. com/visitpensacolabeach for details.
STAND UP COMEDY AT BAGELHEADS
PENSACOLA Comedians Delisia Nicholas, Ryan Deakle and Ross Richard take the stage 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 at Bagelheads, 916 E. Gregory St. Tickets are $20. Details at talktothemooncomedy.com.
SCIENCE NIGHT LIVE: SLEEP AND STRESS WITH DR. JAIME TARTAR Join Dr. Jaime Tartar of Nova University for an eye-opening lecture on the latest science of sleep and stress 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 at Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E. Wright St. Pre-registration appreciated. Register at pensacolamesshall.org/adult-programs.
BIG TIME MACA COMEDY SHOW FEATURING SAM SKOLNIK, OLIVIA SEARCY, RAY LAU AND AARON MONTE Show starts at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info available at thehandlebar850.com.
RUPAUL'S DRAG RACE WERQ THE WORLD
2025 Show is 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Tickets and info at pensacolasaenger.com.
DRAW TOGETHER DRAWING CLUB Starts at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Free event that is open to all ages and skill levels; supplies provided.
PENSACOLA CRIME WRITERS ROUNDTABLE Three of Pensacola's leading crime
writers (Mike Papantonio, author of "Middleman," Rick Outzen, author of "City of Grudges," and Corbett Davis Jr., author of "Dead Man's Fingers") will come together for a roundtable discussion at the Museum of Commerce, 201 Zaragoza St. 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17. Evening will include Q&A and book signing. Details at uwf.edu/gulfcoastculture.
PETALS & PUMPKINS Enjoy a hands-on class learning autumn floral arrangements and pouring your own seasonal candle 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 at Rusted Arrow Mercantile, 130 S. Palafox St. Tickets are $90 and available at rustedarrowmercantile.com/events.
IHMC EVENING LECTURE SERIES: DR. JONATHAN SULLIVAN Dr. Jonathan Sullivan kicks off the fall season of IHMC's evening lecture series. Sullivan is a retired physician and neuroscientist known for his work in strength training in older people. The lecture is 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 located at 40 S. Alcaniz St. Reserve your free ticket at Eventbrite.com.
JEKYLL & HYDE Pensacola Little Theatre presents a gothic musical thriller based on the classic. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fridays Sept. 19, 26, Oct. 3; 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Sept. 20, 27 and Oct. 4; 2:30 p.m. Sundays Sept. 21, 28 and Oct. 5. Two Thursday showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 and Oct. 2 with half-price tickets. PLT is located at 400 S. Jefferson St. Tickets and info at pensacolalittletheatre.com.
LUNCH AND LECTURE WITH FORMER
U.S. SENATOR DOUG JONES Former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama and U S. Senator Doug Jones will be the guest speaker at a community event presented by the Innisfree Hive Foundation & Equity Project Alliance and Joe Morris & Son Funeral Home in collaboration with the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association. The ticketed luncheon will be 11 a.m. Friday, September 19 at the Brownsville Community Center, 3200 W. DeSoto St. Tickets are $30 per person or $220 for a table of eight. Tickets can be purchased at esrba.com.
PENSACOLA CINEMA ART SCREENING
The next PCA screening is "Familiar Touch" 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 and Saturday, Sept. 20 at PCA, 220 W. Garden St. Tickets are $10 cash donation. Details at pensacolacinemaart.com.
PENSACOLA OPERA: THREE DECEMBERS
Pensacola Opera opens its fall season with the chamber opera "Three Decembers" 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 at the UWF Center for Fine and Performing Arts, 11000 University Pkwy. A select display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in the lobby of the theatre. Tickets available at pensacolaopera.com.
DANAE HAYS: THE FIRST TIME TOUR
Show is 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Details and tickets at pensacolasaenger.com.
POP UP ART SALE Purchase work from local artists 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at Framing by Design, 4718 N. W St. Art will
include paintings, collage art, jewelry, original greeting cards and more.
IN YOUR FACE: PORTRAITS BY GILA
RAYBERG Mosaic portraiture by Gila Rayberg is on view through Sept. 7 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
GESTALT OF THE BERTH The latest exhibit at Pensacola Museum of Art is Gestalt of the Berth, a culmination of the inaugural Artist-in-Residence program at Gulf Islands National Seashore. Selected artist, designer and educator John Dougherty, was tasked with forging a stronger connection between the local arts community and the park, and he saw collaboration as the most effective approach. The show features the work of John Dougherty and includes participating artists Nicholas Croghan, Poppy Garcia, Stoycho Hadziev, Joe Hobbs, Richard Humphries, Steve Matechik, Mia McCann, Keeley Morgan, Paul Myers, Nick Phoenix, Richard Rodriguez and Eniko Ujj. A closing exhibition is 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26. More details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
ARTEL GALLERY EXHIBITS Current shows at Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox St., run through Oct. 3. Exhibits include: "Recycle It," creating new art from old and the works of featured artists; "Echoes of Color" by Lynn Huber; "Ways We Float and Fall" by Summer Sevi; "Echoes of Creation" by Pyramid Inc. and "Winner of Best
Show" by Hope Mastroianni. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrance is free.
JOE HOBBS: TIME AND PLACE An exhibit by glass artist Joe Hobbs, "Time and Place," is on display through Oct. 10 at the Charles W. Lamar Studio at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd.
DUALITIES: NATIONAL SCULPTURE
EXHIBITION This national exhibition will feature works from various artists at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. The exhibition is on view through Jan. 11. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
THRIFT STYLE New exhibit at Pensacola Museum of History explores the reuse of feed sacks to make clothing and other household objects. View the exhibit and explore the museum, located at 330 S. Jefferson St. Details at historicpensacola.org.
FIRST FRIDAY AT BLUE MORNING GAL-
LERY Visit Blue Morning Gallery, 21 S. Palafox St., 5:30 p.m. every first Friday of the month for a reception with wine, live music and occasional artist demonstrations. Visit bluemorninggallery.com for details.
PENSACOLA ROSE SOCIETY Monthly meetings are normally 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Pensacola Garden Center, 1850
N. Ninth Ave. Visit pensacolarosesociety.org for more information.
BTB COMEDY Watch live standup comedy in open mic style 7 p.m. Mondays at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Follow BTB Comedy on Facebook for updates.
COMEDY SHOWCASE AT SUBCULTURE
BTB Comedy presents a comedy showcase the first Thursday monthly at Subculture Art Gallery, 701 N. V St. Follow facebook.com/pensacolasubculture for updates.
SCRIPTEASERS Join writers at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St., for Scripteasers every month. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for details.
PALAFOX MARKET Enjoy Palafox Market
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. The event features local farmers, artists and crafters on North and South Palafox streets at Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza and Plaza Ferdinand. For updates, visit facebook.com/downtownpensacola.
CABARET DRAG SHOWCASE AT AMERICAN LEGION POST #193 Don't miss Cabaret Drag Showcase every second and fourth Saturday at the American Legion Post #193, 2708 N. 12th Ave. Doors open 8 p.m. Showtime is 10 p.m. For more information, contact show director Taize Sinclair-Santi at taizesinclairsanti@gmail.com.
SPIRITS OF SEVILLE QUARTER GHOST TOUR AND LUNCHEON Dine inside Pensacola's oldest and most haunted restaurant and investigate the spirits with actual paranormal equipment at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Tickets are $12 and include a voucher toward Seville Quarter's menu. Tours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. Sundays. Make an appointment by calling (850) 941-4321.
AFTER DARK: SEVILLE QUARTER GHOSTS, MURDER, MAYHEM AND MYSTERY TOUR AND DINNER After Dark Paranormal Investigation and Dinner happens inside one of Pensacola's most haunted restaurants with real ghost-hunting equipment 6-8 p.m. Sundays. Listen as your guide weaves tales of ghosts, debauchery, murder, mayhem, paranormal activities, history and more related to Seville Quarter and downtown Historic Pensacola. After your ghost tour, enjoy dinner at Seville Quarter Palace Café, 130 E. Government St. Reservations are required. Call (850) 941-4321. Tickets are available at pensacolaghostevents.com.
FOOD + DRINKS
8TH ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST AT GARY'S BREWERY Oktoberfest 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 at Gary's Brewery & Biergarten, 208 Newman Ave. Details at facebook.com/garysbrew.
A SOUTHERN KITCHEN: SCALLOPS Handson cooking class is 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 at Pensacola Cooks, 4051 Barrancas Ave., Ste. C.
Tickets are $60 per student and available at pensacolacooks.com/cooking-classes.
THE DINNER DETECTIVE MURDER MYSTERY DINNER
The comedy true crime dinner show is 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 at Hilton Garden Inn, 8 S. Ninth Ave. Tickets and info at thedinnerdetective.com.
BAKING WITH OLIVE OIL: OLIVE OIL
CAKES Cooking class is 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Cost is $48. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite.com.
COOKING WITH CHEF IRV MILLER: REAL AND RUSTIC Cooking class is 5 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17 at Jackson's Steakhouse, 400 S. Palafox St. Cost is $55 and includes cooking demonstration, tastings and wine pairings and take-home recipe booklet. Sign up by contacting contact Martha Anne Merrill, marthaanne@ goodgrits.com or (850) 777-0412.
THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER Join Executive
Chef Jason Hughes and special guests Grayson Bay Oyster Co. and Pensacola & Perdido Bays Estuary 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18. Features a five-course tasting and drink pairings; cost is $65. Reservations are required. Make yours by emailing taylor@goodgrits.com or call (850) 287-0200.
GRIDIRON SPEED MINGLE
Meet new people and make social connections 6:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. Tickets are $17-$43 and available at Eventbrite.com.
ODDTOBERFEST 2025 Traditional German festival 12-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. with games and prizes, can and draught releases, lederhosen and dirndl apparel, beer puppeteer competition and brat toss. Details at facebook.com/oddcolony.
LUNCH SERVICE AT RESTAURANT IRON
Restaurant Iron, 22 N. Palafox St., now offers a refined midday experience starting 11 a.m. Monday-Friday. Dinner service will continue to be available Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (850) 476-7776 or visiting restaurantiron.com/ reservations. Walk-ins will also be welcome based on availability.
LUNCH & DINNER AT SEVILLE QUARTER
Enjoy a good meal and atmosphere with lunch and dinner at Seville Quarter. At 11 a.m. in Apple Annie's Courtyard, have the soup and salad bar, featuring more than 30 fresh selections, along with a delicious variety of sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, wings and local Gulf seafood favorites. Beginning at 5 p.m., dinner is served in the historic Palace Café, where the culinary team brings creative dishes to the table, blending Southern comfort, local ingredients and Seville Quarter flair. Details are at sevillequarter.com.
DOWNTOWN HAPPY HOUR AT SEVILLE QUARTER Drink specials and laid-back vibes are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. every weekday throughout the entire Seville Quarter complex with $2 off all liquor drinks and $1 off all beer and wine. Must be 21 or older. Visit sevillequarter.com for details.
MEN'S NIGHT AT WISTERIA From 3 p.m. to close Mondays, guys can play free darts and enjoy $6 craft tallboys. There are more than 150 craft beers to choose from at Wisteria, 3803 N. 12th Ave. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
BAR BINGO AT SEVILLE QUARTER Bar
Bingo is 8 p.m. Mondays at Apple Annie's at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Drink specials include $2.50 Miller Lite bottles and $3.50 Bomb shots. Bingo is free to play with prizes, giveaways and bar tabs up for grabs for winners. Visit sevillequarter.com for details.
FIGHTER GAME NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S
Gamers unite 5 p.m.-close Mondays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
BINGO NIGHT AT CALVERT'S IN THE HEIGHTS Play a game (or two) of bingo 6-8 p.m. Mondays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Hwy. For more information, visit calvertsintheheights.com.
DOUBLE MONDAYS AND SIN NIGHT Enjoy
Double Mondays 8 p.m.-midnight and SIN Night 11 p.m. to close at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details are at orileystavern.com.
MARTINI NIGHT AT THE KENNEDY Every Tuesday, The Kennedy, 1 S. Palafox St., hosts Martini Night, featuring all martinis from the menu for $10 from open to close (4-11 p.m.).
75-CENT OYSTERS AT ATLAS Enjoy 75-cent oysters 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. For more information, visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com.
MUSIC BINGO Test your music knowledge 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Wisteria, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Take part in half-price bottles of wine and $5 canned cocktails. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
POKER NIGHT AND BINGO AT O'RILEY'S
Visit O'Riley's Irish Pub for poker at 6:30 p.m. and bar bingo 8-10 p.m. Tacos are on special Tuesdays at 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
LUNCH AT THE DISTRICT The District Steakhouse, 130 E. Government St., is open for special lunch seatings the third Friday of the month. Enjoy a $5 martini or house wine. Seatings are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Reservations are accepted but not necessary. Details are available at districtsteaks.com.
DOLLAR NIGHT Enjoy Dollar Night 8 p.m.-
midnight Tuesdays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Hwy. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
TUESDAY TRIVIA AT PERFECT PLAIN Visit Perfect Plain Brewing Co. for trivia nights 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at 50 E. Garden St. Visit perfectplain. com/upcoming-events for details.
LATIN NIGHT AT SEVILLE QUARTER
Get on your feet with a social Latin dance—no partner required—and Latin music 7-9 p.m. every Wednesday at Phineas Phogg's in Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Drink specials and music from DJ DavidC continue after the dancing. Details are at sevillequarter.com.
DOLLAR NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Dollar Night is 8 p.m.-midnight Wednesdays at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Food trucks are on site. Details are at orileystavern.com.
TRIVIA AT O'RILEY'S Test your trivia knowledge 8-10 p.m. Wednesdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
TRIVIA AT CALVERT'S IN THE HEIGHTS
Take part in trivia nights 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Hwy. For more information, visit calvertsintheheights.com.
COLLEGE NIGHT AT SEVILLE QUARTER
College night is 8 p.m. Thursdays at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Ages 18 and older are welcome. Free Beer Pong tournament begins at 10 p.m. Drink specials include $2 bar drinks, $3.50 Fireball shots for ages 21 and older. Cover is $5 for ages 21 and older and $10 for ages 18-20. Details are at sevillequarter.com.
SIPPIN' IN SUNDRESSES LADIES' NIGHT AT FELIX'S Pop-up shops, pink drink specials and live music are 5-8 p.m. Thursdays at Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar, 400 Quietwater Beach Dr.
PITCHERS AND TAVERN TRIVIA Get deals on pitchers 8 p.m.-midnight at O'Riley's Tavern. Trivia is 8 p.m.; SIN Night starts 1 a.m. Thursdays at 3728 Creighton Road. Visit orileystavern.com for details.
WEEKLY SINGO AT PERFECT PLAIN BREWING CO. Music Bingo Thursdays is 7-9 p.m. at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Details are at facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.
POOL TOURNAMENT Pool tournaments begin
8 p.m., and Tequila Night is 8 p.m. to midnight Thursdays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Hwy. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
DOLLAR NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Dollar Night with a DJ starts 8 p.m. Thursdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
TRIVIA UNDER THE TREES Trivia is 6 p.m.
Thursdays at Wisteria Tavern, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.
THURSDAY BIERGARTEN TRIVIA NIGHT
Gary's Brewery Trivia Night is back by popular demand 7-9 p.m. Thursdays at 208 Newman Ave. Test your trivia skills with a glass of beer or wine. Arrive early to grab a spot. For more information, visit facebook.com/garysbrew.
FRIDAY HAPPY HOUR AT SEVILLE QUAR-
TER Visit Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. every Friday with cold drinks, hot food and great vibes in the End O' the Alley Courtyard at Seville Quarter. Happy hour begins 11 a.m. Fridays with drink and food specials.
SEVILLE QUARTER'S FLIP MY QUARTER
Seville Quarter is flipping the script—and a
few quarters—with its brand-new happy hour promotion, Flip My Quarter, 6-8 p.m. every Friday throughout the Seville Quarter entertainment complex. When you order a domestic draft beer, well liquor cocktail or house wine, tell the bartender to "flip my quarter." When they flip it, call it in the air. If you call it right, your drink is free.
BIG BEER NIGHT Drink specials are 8 p.m.-midnight, and SIN Night is 1 a.m. to close Fridays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Hwy. Visit mugsjugsbar.com for details.
FEISTY FRIDAY NIGHTS Enjoy a DJ 9 p.m. Fridays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
TGI FIREBALL FRIDAY Drink specials are all day Fridays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. SIN Night starts at 11 p.m. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
FISH FRY FRIDAY Half off fish n' chips is 11 a.m.4 p.m., and live DJ is 9 p.m. Fridays at Sir Richard's Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Visit sirrichardslounge.com for details.
JAMESON SPECIAL Enjoy $5 Jameson Irish Whiskey all night Saturdays at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St.
MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION NIGHT AT SEVILLE QUARTER From 8 p.m.-midnight every Saturday, members enjoy $3.50
Crown & Drown cocktails at Phineas Phogg's inside Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Details are at sevillequarter.com.
WEEKLY SATURDAY BRUNCH Brunch is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
SHAMROCK SATURDAY Shamrock Saturday is 9 p.m., and SIN Night starts 11 p.m. Saturdays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.
B.A.R.E. NIGHT (BAR AND RESTAURANT EMPLOYEE NIGHT) Sunday nights at Seville Quarter belong to hospitality industry. Head to End O' the Alley at Seville Quarter 7 p.m. every Sunday for B.A.R.E. Night. Not a member yet? Stop by and sign up for your B.A.R.E. Card, and start enjoying the benefits immediately.
FREE POOL AND BAR BINGO AT O'RILEY'S TAVERN Enjoy free pool all day and play bar bingo 8 p.m. Sundays at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details are at orileystavern.com.
SUNDAY BRUNCH AT CAFÉ SINGLE FIN
Partake in brunch specials, full café menu, espressos and bottomless mimosas until 1 p.m. Sundays at Café Single Fin, 380 N. Ninth Ave. Live music begins at 10 a.m. Visit cafesinglefin.com for details.
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ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): I can't speak the Quechua language, which is Indigenous to the Andes Mountains. But I have lifted one of their words to use for our purposes here: munay. It refers to an intensely practical and visionary love that includes far more than sweet feelings and affection. When we practice munay, we offer discerning respect and detailed appreciation to those we adore. We are generously eager to help our allies live their best lives. It takes discipline! And focus! And ingenuity! To be a rigorous and vigorous source of munay, we must cultivate it as a daily practice. In the coming weeks, Aries, I hope you will go a bit wild in your expression of this tender force of nature. Imagine yourself as a gentle whirlwind of love that spreads interesting beauty and bestows useful blessings. Be a relentless dispenser of catalytic gifts.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): The medieval Persian polymath Avicenna believed the soul entered the fetus not with the first heartbeat, but with the first dream. I offer this idea for your poetic consideration, dear Taurus. Let's imagine that the next beautiful thing you create will not arise from your forceful intention. Rather, it will emerge because you give yourself permission to fantasize, to wander freely in wonder and to meander with curiosity on the frontiers. Your assignment is not to hustle, but to incubate; not to push forward, but to dwell expectantly in the mystery.
By Rob Brezsny
will magnetize the people or opportunities you long to engage with? It's not about flashiness; it's about alignment. What you draw into your sphere will reflect the vibes you emanate.
CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): The pearl doesn't begin as treasure. In its earliest form, it's an irritation: a grain of sand that's really a wound inside the oyster. Over time, the creature coats it with layers of nacre, turning discomfort into luminescence. Let's use that as a metaphor for you, Cancerian. In my view, your task right now is not to escape or shed what's bugging you, but to expedite the coating process. What is that gritty thing? A memory, injustice or unmet yearning? It's crucial you don't reject it and don't let it fester. I think it's best to turn it, layer by layer, into a luminous asset, even a treasure. Prediction: the pearl you form will long outlast the wound.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Olive trees can thrive in rugged environments, including rocky and nutrient-poor soils. Their root systems are wide, deep and resilient. They are well-adapted to full sun, high temperatures and low water availability. In comparing you to an olive tree, Leo, I'm not implying you will always have to be as hardy as they are. But in the coming weeks, you will be wise to be equally plucky and persevering. Here's another fact about the olive tree you can and should emulate: its fruit is valuable and in demand.
having an all-new body but being able to draw on what our past body learned. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, you will be able to draw on this amazing capacity in the coming weeks. The person you used to be will have key revelations and inspirations for the future you.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): The bowerbird constructs elaborate ground-based shrines not as nests but as seduction lures. The enticer might gather blue bottle caps, yellow flowers and shiny stones so as to create a scene that piques the attention of a potential mate. These objets d'art are not merely decorative. They are displays that demonstrate discernment, skill and aesthetic intelligence. I authorize you to be like a bowerbird, Gemini. What collection of symbols, words, gestures and curiosities
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): The Basenji is a dog breed that doesn't bark. Instead, it produces an eerie, melodic yodel called a baroo. This oddity isn't a flaw or drawback; it's an interesting uniqueness. In the coming weeks, Virgo, I invite you to express your personal versions of the baroo—your idiosyncratic offerings and singular gifts. Playfully resist the pressure to be more conventional or "on brand." Be faithful to what yearns to come out of you, which may be raw, radiant and a little weird. Let your authenticity be exactly what it is: a beacon, not a liability.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): Scientists discovered that some caterpillars, while dissolving inside their cocoons, retain memories of their caterpillar lives even after becoming butterflies. In my view, that's equivalent to us humans remembering details of our previous incarnations:
SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): According to Celtic mythology, Cerridwen is the goddess of inspiration. In her cauldron, she brews magical elixirs that bestow the powers of wisdom, creativity and transformation. The humans most likely to earn her blessings are those who are patient and willing to be changed. Of all the signs in the zodiac, you Scorpios are now at the top of the eligibility list for gifts like these. And the next three weeks will be the most favorable time for you to ask for and receive such blessings. Here's a clue that will help you get all you deserve: believe in magic.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): In ancient Chinese philosophy, ziran means naturalness, spontaneity. It might refer to the way a mountain is purely a mountain, and a wave is a wave without trying to be a wave. I think you Sagittarians are due for an extended engagement with this wild ease and elegant freedom. After weeks of inner labor, your soul wants to breathe in ziran. Your assignment is to let yourself be as natural and unconstrained as you dare—not correct or careful or "optimized." So I advise you to head in the direction of what's simple and real and good. Emphasize smoothness over effort. Choose your rhythm, not theirs. You aren't required to prove your healing. You just have to live it.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): "Serendipity" is an English term that refers to beautiful accidents, fortunate interruptions, unexpected opportunities and surprisingly wonderful discoveries (The French equivalent is sérendipité; Italian: serendipità; Japanese:
serendipiti.) The word didn't exist until 1754, when author Horace Walpole coined it. Lovely outbreaks of good luck and uncanny blessings had been happening from time immemorial, of course, even though there wasn't this precise word for them. Here's a key point: they are more likely to occur if you believe they're possible and make yourself alert for their arrival. That's good advice for you right now.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): The placenta is the only organ that the human body creates from scratch and then discards. Let's pause for a moment to register how remarkable this is: to grow a temporary life-support system and then jettison it once its purpose is fulfilled. Inspired by this miracle, I speculate that you may soon undertake a metaphorical version of it. A situation or experience that has nurtured you is reaching the end of its mission. Though it has served you well, the wise move might be to outgrow it and move on to a new phase of your evolution. At the very least, it's time to embark on a search for new forms of nourishment.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): In Balinese gamelan music, there's a technique called kotekan. Two instrumentalists play distinct musical parts that together create a seamless, intricately melodic and rhythmic texture. Let's make this your metaphor to live by in the coming weeks, Pisces. In my astrological opinion, you are not meant to work solo. Your greatest success and most fun will come by generating harmony through collaborative improvisation and shared timing. A small warning: someone else's input may at first feel like interference, but it's actually the missing part of the song. Let yourself blend, bounce, echo and respond. Genius will be born in the spaces between.
HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: Give yourself a pep talk about how smart you plan to become about love. {in}
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INEXPLICABLE Perhaps it was the stress of speaking in front of others. Perhaps it was just a call to a higher Michael Jackson. On Sept. 2 in Cranford, New Jersey, resident Will Thilly appeared at a town hall meeting to ask questions about a recent property tax hike, WABC-TV reported. But before he uttered a word, he performed a wordless robot dance, without music, and spun on the floor. Then he asked, "How was everyone's weekend?" He went on to ask a few specific questions about taxes and school expenses, then gathered his papers from the podium and moonwalked back to his seat. Oh—and Thilly is a candidate for the Cranford township committee. "I hope to bring a friendly, stress-free way of our committee when dealing with the public," he says on his website.
FAIL Hopes were dashed into the sweet winds on Oct. 2 as the Dolce Vento was launched into the water off the coast of Zonguldak, Turkey, the New York Post reported. The $1 million, 85-foot yacht slipped into the water and almost immediately started listing to its port side before sinking. The new owner, captain and two crew members were able to jump overboard and swim to the nearby shore without injury. Shipyard officials said the cause of the sinking was under investigation.
BAD DOG! Registered sex offender Rodney Platthy, 46, has been working at a pet store in Clearwater, Florida, The Smoking Gun reported. His job is to wear an inflatable puppy costume and stand outside the store to lure in pet lovers. But on Aug. 29, Platthy and the store owner got into it with several "juveniles (riding) by on bicycles." It wasn't their first beef with the kids, and as one of them tried to ride away, Platthy "approached the victim from behind and placed him in a chokehold," police said. The victim told police he couldn't breathe for a brief period. Platthy was arrested for battery by strangulation and ordered to have no contact with the victim; he posted a $10,000 bond.
WHAT'S IN A NAME? This week's winner of Best Name for a Credit Card Fraud Suspect is Alec Bogus, 33, of Aurora, Colorado. Bogus gets bonus points for his attempted escape from law enforcement on Aug. 26, when he was approached at the Indian Hot Springs resort in Idaho Springs, Colorado. According to CBS News, Bogus, who also had an outstanding felony warrant from Douglas County, was just exiting the mud bath wearing only a Speedo when officers arrived. He ran up a wooded mountainside and tried to hide in a shed, but he was recovered a short time later still covered in mud. His charges included assault on a peace officer and resisting arrest.
•Indianapolis-based bankruptcy attorney Mark S. Zuckerberg is suing Meta, the company of Mark E. Zuckerberg, because the former's Facebook page keeps getting shut down, WTHR-TV reported on Sept. 4. "It's not funny," the attorney said. Meta has been accusing him of impersonating a celebrity and using a false name, "which I've had way longer than he has," he said. "I'd rather not pick a
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
fight with them, but I don't know how else to make them stop." He said his business account has been removed five times and his personal account four. "It's not right and they need to stop," he said. And so, they have: Meta confirmed that Zuckerberg's account is back up after being "disabled in error."
THAT RULE DOESN'T APPLY TO ME A court in Germany has ruled that an unnamed teacher who has been on sick leave for 16 years must prove that she is ill, Metro News reported on Aug. 23. Since 2009, the female teacher has been drawing her full salary in spite of not working at all. When the education authority in North Rhine-Westphalia demanded that she take a medical test, she sued. But the court called her case "truly incomprehensible" and ruled that the employer had the right to call for the test. Andreas Bartsch, president of the state's teachers' union, called her behavior "completely abysmal."
MAYBE THE HYENAS ATE YOUR GROOMS-
MAN Nicolas Hohls, 27, of Harburg, KwaZuluNatal, South Africa, was camping at Cape Vidal Nature Reserve in St. Lucia, South Africa, on Aug. 30 when he got unexpected overnight visitors. Hohls was there with his dad and others for a bachelor party, People magazine reported. After settling in his tent, he woke up to two hyenas attacking him—one focused on his face, the other on his ankle. "I fought them off by ... attacking the eyes of one and forcing my hand down the throat of the other," Hohls said. His dad heard him screaming and rushed him to a hospital, where doctors say a full recovery will take about a month. "I'm doing a lot better. The doctors are happy with my progress," he said.
AWKWARD Police in Canton, Connecticut, are searching for the owners of a silver urn containing cremated remains that was left along a running trail near the Canton Department of Public Works, WFSB-TV reported on Sept. 4. Authorities report that they tried to open the urn, but it appears to be sealed shut. Officers hope whoever misplaced the object will come forward to retrieve it.
IT'S A MYSTERY Over the Labor Day weekend, hikers on Huron Peak in Colorado got a special surprise when they reached the summit of the 14,000-foot-plus mountain, the Associated Press reported. Seated in a camping chair, wearing an ice cream cone costume and sunglasses with a fake mustache, was an unnamed man who had hauled up ice cream sandwiches in a pack with dry ice. One hiker dubbed him "legend dairy" for rewarding climbers with the sweet treat. "Ice cream was just kind of what we wanted," said Blaine Griffin. Griffin said he saw the man zooming down the mountain once the ice cream was gone, sans costume. {in}
