Bella Magazine December 2022

“I had no idea hypnosis could do this! I went from a size 12 to a 4 in just six months!!! Hypnosis made it possi ble for me to EN JOY eating healthy, exercising, and relaxing my mind . I eat what I want, I’m not on any kind of diet, and oh my goodness I li ke being thin! ”

Lind a J-Milton

“I feel li ke a new woman in ALL areas of my life! I have a new and “much” improved attit ude toward life, eating healthy, and exercise . Why did I wait so long to come here?”

Lisa D-Pe nsacol a

“When I came here, I wa s a hot mess with emotional bag gage and health issues. I literally feel li ke a plug ha s been pulled out of my head to let all the garbage out I feel lighter and more relaxed ... Oh, and I’ve lost 40 lbs in 5 months! ”

Melin da G-Pe nsacol a

Ah, December.

There’s so much to say about the last month of the year. It’s the wrap up month – wrap up the year, wrap up the presents. It can be a wonderful and joyous month, but can also be stressful and difficult.

I’m sure we all prefer the wonderful and joyous type of month, right?

It can happen! We have a great story on page 24 about lowering stress around the holidays. There are reminders about not overspending, focusing on experiences, self-care and maintaining healthy eating habits. With so many events and travel, cooking, shopping, entertaining and juggling year-end work/ family/school activities, life can get overwhelming. I try to remember – just like the rest of the year – to be careful not to overcommit and to keep focused on being with loved ones.

December is also a month of reflection.

As we wrap up the year, it’s a great time for looking back. I think it’s good to take stock, reflect on things, think about what I’d want to change and how I want to grow, and then move on, be present in the now with an eye to the future.

This month’s theme is reflections, which isn’t just about looking back but also about what we see when we look in the mirror. Our writer Leah Seacrest has a great article on body dysmorphia on page 32. I’m sure we all know the importance of this topic and how much it affects so many women. Body dysmorphia isn’t just about not liking what we see in the mirror or focusing only on what we perceive as faults or flaws. It’s about not accurately seeing ourselves. Many women look in the mirror and see a different person – for example, they see themselves as overweight when really they might be underweight. That’s what makes body dysmorphia so dangerous.

There is a lot of attention about the filtered, touched-up presentation of women in social media and in magazines. We have images coming at us everywhere of what seems like the perfect woman or what a woman should look like. Of course we all want to look our best, take care of ourselves and have our outside reflect our inner beauty. It’s when we only see flaws that things go too far and our mental health is threatened.

As you reflect this December – both at the past year and as you look in the mirror – I hope you are proud of what you see and that you recognize your own uniqueness. We are all beautiful – inside and out.

— Kelly MacLeod

GROUNDBREAKING CARE

Bringing groundbreaking care to the communities we serve is a part of who we are. Our new hospital campus is our latest groundbreaking advancement that will transform health care for the future. Born from a legacy of putting people first through better access, experiences and outcomes, this investment in our Mission of helping people throughout life’s journey is about much more than a physical location or a building. It represents our commitment to care for our community for generations to come.

Learn how you can be a part of this commitment by visiting baptisthealthcarefoundation.org or call 850.469.7906.

spendorsave

• A.L.C. “Ivy” mini dress, $595, Farfetch.com.

• ALAÏA stretch high-rise flare jeans, $1,880,  ModaOperandi.com.

• Christian Louboutin “Edelvizir 70” shearlingtrimmed leather ankle boots, $1,795, Net-APorter.com.

• sacai leather coat, $2,900, Farfetch.com.

BY SLOANE STEPHENS COX / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED

• Line & Dot “Alexis” mini dress, $125, TheLineAndDot. com.

L’Agence “Sevyn HR Ultra Flare” jeans, $395, Lagence.com.

ba&sh “Canyon” leather boots, $495, Ba-sh.com.

Avec Les Filles fauxshearling jacket, $147, Shopbop.com.

Shopping list: This retro black and white jumpsuit, $66 by Ces Femme, with oversized polka dots and wide legs embraces the ’70s spirit currently sweeping fashion.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

fashion BIG BOLD Winter Style

By Allison McCrory

Fashion is reminiscing on that decade 50 years ago that brought us Watergate, soaring gas prices and changing social mores.

The over-the-top powerful lines and colors of the ’70s embody this winter’s fashion vibe.

Look for power suits, including retro blazers, three-piece sets, structured shoulders, crisp lapels, vests, classic white button-up blouses and cinched belted waists, said Donna Zampino, whose boutique Embellish relocated from Pace to Gregory Street in downtown Pensacola in 2022.

Tailored shirts with corsets, preppy polo tops, oversized outerwear and maxi skirts and dresses in sheer fabrics are all on point.

To further make a big statement, extra embellishments of sparkles and feathers are popping up on tops and dresses.

In the pants department, you can’t go wrong with high waists, luxe leather, loads of corduroy and frayed slouchy jeans in a medium wash, which are often paired with a white tank.

“Cargo pants are making the comeback,” Zampino noted.

When choosing a hue, think pink and bold or burnt shades of yellow, green and purple. And plaids are on-trend!

Loafers, platform loafers, ballerina slippers and statement boots are on point. And continuing the big, bold theme, look for strong, stand-out jewelry and even permanent jewelry.

Shopping list:

Corduroy pants are all the rage this winter as is oversized outerwear, making this outfit a showcase of the year’s biggest trends. Pants, $64 by Judy Blue, and this Carolina Hill kimono, $42, are on-trend yet lightweight for mild Florida winter days and nights.

Samantha Burke

New Zealand native Samantha Burke loves visual beauty. The former makeup artist is now pursuing photography while working in fashion and modeling.

Her style is varied.

“I really don’t have a certain style. I like to dress however I feel that day. Definitely the overdressed one more than underdressed.”

After several years in New York City, she returned to the town in which she grew up to raise her own daughter, who she calls her “forever sidekick.”

“If I’m not with my 13-year-old daughter, it’s because I’m working,” said Burke.

“I love being in downtown Pensacola. It’s grown so much. I love a good class at Ride Society and a coffee date afterwards,” she said, adding the beach never fails to elevate spirits.

Holidays with her daughter and family always include opening a gift on Christmas Eve and the holiday party poppers that spill out trinkets when opened.

Shopping list: Plaid and blazers are two of the season’s most popular trends. This one in herringbone teams beautifully with mustard corduroy pants by Judy Blue, $62. The black mock turtleneck bodysuit, Mauve & Mallow, $28, will be a workhorse for winter layering.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Shopping list: What’s a holiday season without some sparkles? This multi-color sequin top by Vine & Love, $62, exudes festivity and is perfect with simple black slacks by New Mix, $62.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Shopping list: This beautiful boho green floral maxi dress by Flying Monkey, $90, exudes femininity. Add a hat for extra style and sass!

About the Location:

• Jo Rich Beauty, 126 Palafox Pl., Pensacola; 850-982-2545; jorichbeauty.com.

• Rusted Arrow, 130 Palafox Pl., Pensacola; 850-285-0371; rustedarrowmercantile.com.

Hair & Makeup: Makeup by Mark VanBuren, makeup artist/esthetician at Jo Rich Beauty.

Hair by stylist Amanda Mendoza, Hair & Co., 1627 W. Garden St., Pensacola; 850-378-8366; hairandco.salon.

Clothes Compliments of: Embellish Boutique, 7 E. Gregory St., Pensacola; 850-530-6988; embellishboutiqueetc.com.

Model Compliments of:

Izon Models & Talent LLC, 301 N. Barcelona St., Suite E, Pensacola; 850-433-2099; izonmodels.com.

stylingthe shoot

Photography: Kate Treick / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory Where to shop: Embellish Boutique

Caroline Hill bow earrings, $22.

PV Studio Jewelry & Design silver dip Lava Stone bracelet, $25.

PV Studio Jewelry & Design earrings, $30. Caroline Hill earrings, $18.

MYS, Inc. belt, $19.

Caroline Hill silver bow clutch, $42.

Pierre Dumas shoes, $52.

Charlie leather bucket bag, $130.

Charlie leather bucket bag, $130.

Queen hat, $32.

The Queens Jewels wine glass, $27.50.

HIP HAIR TRENDS

“I spent so much time straightening my hair. Tamar taught me about my three different curl textures and how to work with them. It’s a drastic change but it’s been fun. ”

— Kricket Rich

By Liz Biggs

According to Kenzie Green, stylist at Volume ONE Salon, one of the biggest trends right now is low maintenance “lived-in” color – the natural look with roots showing. Also, many of her clients want to work with their natural hair texture to reduce styling time and complete the lived-in look.

“In the past, men sported the shaggy, lived-in look and women were high maintenance,” Green said. “But now it has flip flopped. Men are coming in more frequently to get cleaned up – the tapered, European cut is popular. And women want less maintenance, so they are embracing their natural color and texture.”

Block coloring and vivids – greens and blues – are popular with younger clients.

“Reds and coppers are huge,” Green said.

Many clients still do keratin treatments, especially in summertime to reduce frizz. But, according to Green, they are going for smoothing, not straightening.

Another big trend, especially for women over 50, is to stop using hair color and go gray. According to stylist Tamar Mitchell, this transition requires patience because it can take up to a year to complete the process. She advises her clients to be sure the timing is right – no weddings or special events during the process.

“A good time to start the process

is summer when your hair is already bleached out or lighter,” Mitchell said. “It is easier to go from blonde to white.”

According to Mitchell, the first step is to remove dye molecules, decolorize or bleach the hair. Then the hair is toned to a cooler, lighter shade to remove the warmth. This can’t be done in one visit. It can take up to nine months to get the majority of the dye out of the hair and tone it from a warm, golden yellow to an icy, cooler shade.

As a stylist, Mitchell is playing a game with vision during this process – trying to hide the line of demarcation until the hair grows out. Sometimes she foils the hair to a pale blonde a few times. On some clients she adds chunky blonde streaks or brightens up the front pieces to hide the line of demarcation.

Mitchell’s client, Kricket Rich, chose the two-year period that started with the COVID lockdown and Hurricane Sally to go from golden blonde to gray.

“I was ready to let it go,” Rich said. “Tamar transitioned me one step at a time. The first bleach-out day was the longest. It took three or four more visits to bleach, with toning in between.”

Rich is not only embracing her natural hair color, she is also embracing her natural curl.

“I spent so much time straightening my hair. Tamar taught me about my three different curl textures and how to work with them,” Rich said. “It’s a drastic change but it’s been fun. My grandkids love it!”

Above: Leslie Macaluso models the “lived-in” look. To achieve this look, stylist Kenzie Green bleached out her roots completely, then toned her hair to a silvery, icy color. Macaluso rocks her natural curls.

• Kenzie Green at Volume ONE Salon, 7 West Main St., Pensacola; 850-434-5409; volumeonesalon.com.

Left: Stylist Tamar Mitchell transitioned Kricket Rich from golden blonde to gray. Rich embraces her natural color as well as her natural curls.

• Tamar Mitchell at My Salon Suites, 2590 North 12th Ave., Pensacola; 850-426-4126; tamarmitchell.com.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Holiday Makeup One look, two lips

By Leslie Peck

The holidays are coming to a rip-roaring finale with Christmas and the countdown to 2023. The hustle and bustle of the season calls for long, busy days and fun, festive nights.

Once you have picked out the perfect ensembles to dance the night away at all of your upcoming parties, create makeup that compliments and pops to put the icing on your gingerbread cake!

Taking care of your skin during these busy weeks is most important to look your best. Most likely you are eating more sugar, richer food and possibly having a few more cocktails than usual. All of this takes a toll on your skin.

Make sure to always wash your makeup off at the end of the night. Cleanse once to remove makeup and twice to get the skin totally clean. Use an exfoliating cleanser three times per week to clean pores and remove dead skin cells. Hydrate the skin with moisturizers, serums and eye cream to keep the skin looking its best the next day.

Leslie Peck is a local makeup artist, aesthetician and lash artist with almost two decades of experience. She has worked 11 seasons of NYC Fashion Week as well as several beauty shoots while living in New York City. Leslie also has experience in TV, film, print and celebrity makeup in Los Angeles. She specializes in bridal makeup, skincare education and was featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal in 2007.

• Massage moisturizer into the skin to get it warmed up and plump and hydrate your lips to prep them for later.

• Add a smoothing primer to minimize pores and to create a barrier for longlasting makeup.

• Put concealer where needed and buff into the skin.

• Use a foundation brush to apply a medium-to-full-coverage foundation for maximum coverage.

• Set with a powder, preferably a high-

definition powder which is best for photos.

• Add a slight contour under the cheek bone to create some depth.

• Brush a swoop of blush from the temple to the middle of the cheek. Make sure to blend it well.

• Prime the eyelid and use a dark brown, grey or black cream shadow on the lid from lash line to crease. Do not go above the crease line and blend a shimmery brown or grey shadow over the cream shadow. Use a lighter shadow to go from

the inner eye, under the brow and out to highlight the brow bone.

• Line the water line with dark brown or black and blend a bit of the darker shimmery shadow just under the lower lashes.

• Curl the lashes, add multiple layers of mascara and finish with a strip lash to add length and fullness to this smokey eye.

• Don’t forget the setting spray! A couple of sprays will keep your makeup in place throughout the evening.

Katie Schutts, associate director of Alumni Communications and Events at UWF, shows off the impact of red lipstick. This is the same makeup shown with two different lips: classic red lip vs. nude lip.

• Makeup by Leslie Peck

• Jewelry and wardrobe from Indigeaux Denim Bar and Boutique

Photos by Leslie Peck

PEACE LOVE & JOY

‘Tis the season to spend & live smartly

“Make appointments for self-care activities in your calendar. Taking time out to exercise or get a massage, take a nap or read a book is time well spent to keep the stress down.”

— Justina Royster

body & soul

By Allison McCrory

It’s the time of year for giving as well as the season of peace. Keeping those two goals in sync takes some intentionality and strength. But the payoff is big – in dollars and holiday joy.

According to ESquared Inc., Americans rack up an average of $1,300 in credit card debt during the holiday shopping season only to report January as the most depressing month of the year.

Experts say getting honest about what really brings joy is a good first step to avoid that quagmire. And since one in six people list an experience as their favorite gift ever, consider creating a memory for a loved one this season.

CREATE UNBREAKABLE TREASURES

Assess your budget and plan a gift that the recipient can look forward to and remember fondly. It could be anything from a vacation to tickets to a play to a class teaching a new skill to a day of biking a local scenic route with a stop for a homemade picnic. Let budget dictate your choice but the takeaway will be the same – the thrill of a new experience! And the joy of sharing it with a loved one if the gift includes the presence of the giver.

“Go back to being practical and creative with gifting. Don’t give in to the holiday hype,” advised Justina Royster, who with her husband Antonio leads the non-profit ESquared Inc. The organization seeks to engage, educate and empower through mentorship, including financial literacy.

A majority of gift recipients report it really is the thought that counts when it comes to gifts. There’s a reason the adage “you can’t buy happiness” is going strong. So shed the need to buy the latest and greatest in favor of a gift that warms the heart and brings joy and peace for the recipient – and the giver’s finances.

Set a budget for holiday purchases, advised Royster, and carry and adhere to a shopping list to avoid impulse buying. Shopping online might curb impulse purchases, she said, and as archaic as it sounds, so does spending cash.

“Participate in gift exchanges with friends or family or purchase gifts as a group,” Royster recommended.

This is not only better on the budget, it prevents the chance of giving unwanted trinkets in favor of a gift that the recipient might be less likely to purchase for herself.

GIFT YOURSELF PEACE

“One more warning would be to not get pressured into

applying for credit cards while shopping during the holidays as it can not only decrease your credit score, it can also cause you to go into debt after holiday shopping/spending,” she said.

To maximize holiday financial well-being (and grow your money by avoiding paying interest) set up an account now for the 2023 holidays.

“You can open a holiday savings account and deposit $50 to $100, or whatever you can afford, from each paycheck,” said Royster. This step alone will make the holidays and the new year brighter, particularly given climbing interest rates.

Self-care in general during the busy holiday season contributes to balance in all areas, including decisions that impact the pocketbook.

“Make appointments for self-care activities in your calendar. Taking time out to exercise or get a massage, take a nap or read a book is time well spent to keep the stress down,” said Royster, a busy mom who emphasizes mindfulness of the mind-body connection, especially during this season.

“Maintain healthy eating habits even though holiday celebrations invite us to overindulge. Try eating in portions or small amounts. Drink lots of water and take healthy snacks with you while out shopping. Limit sweets and remember that during the holidays foods and moods are related,” she added.

Unfortunately, holiday blues are not uncommon. Remember you’re the author of your holiday script and can say no to whatever doesn’t resonate. But don’t become a holiday hermit, advised Royster.

“Stay socially engaged if you are feeling sad because of a loss or disappointment, talk to your doctor, therapist or a trusted friend or family member. Don’t isolate yourself from social activity even if you don’t feel joyful,” she said.

Seek out the practices that foster peace, joy and meaning.

“Embrace your faith in whatever your beliefs are and cherish your most treasured holiday memories,” suggested Royster. “Volunteering during the holidays for others in need can be very satisfying. Work with a food bank, take a meal to a neighbor or family member or go to a senior center to visit the residents. At the end of the day there is no better sense of purpose and accomplishment.”

Finally, take out time each day to focus on all of the good things in life. Expressing gratitude gives your brain shots of dopamine and serotonin – the very best holiday cocktails!

Kate Treick Photography

Photo by

THE MARKET & MAINLY SHOES

Downtown Pensacola business reflects on 38 years

By Allison McCrory

It was 1984 – a year no one could envision online shopping or cell phones in every pocket, Palafox Street businesses were suffering from a flight to Pensacola’s two bustling suburban malls, interest rates topped 10 percent and a gallon of gas was $1.

“Every two out of three businesses had shut down,” remembers local historian Robin Rowan about downtown Pensacola in that era.

Despite the floundering downtown business scene, it was that year Pensacola sisters Anne Frechette and Peg Woolverton, along with their mom Tish Childs and partner Tina Bond, officially launched their joint businesses, The Market and Mainly Shoes.

Thirty-eight years later, the business, in its third location, is a staple on South Palafox Street.

The venture started innocently enough.

“I worked at Tin Pan Alley,” recalled Frechette about the business which was housed at the location now home to Joe Zarazar’s law firm. “It was so far ahead of its time, carrying roasted coffee beans and French cookware.”

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Peg Woolverton, Addie Murdoch, Tish Childs and Anne Frechette have made fashion and business a family affair. Murdoch (Woolverston’s and Frechette’s sister) sells her Reboot & Co. fashion line at The Market.

From top left (clockwise): Anne Frechette, Tish Childs and Peg Woolverton of The Market and Mainly Shoes.

The shop was launched by the late Earl Peyroux, who rose to acclaim via his Cajun cooking shows and cookbooks, and Ginger Gould, who now resides on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. Eventually Woolverton also went to work at the shop where, in addition to cooking items, the sisters introduced a line of jewelry called Katrina.

“We’d sell it out of Tin Pan Alley, we had a trunk show at mother’s house and it was selling like crazy,” Frechette said. Building on the momentum, they added a line of dresses and pants from France embracing the shop’s theme.

LOBSTERS & DRESSES

Eventually Tin Pan Alley closed and Frechette and her Boston-born husband opened Mainline Lobster Market at 1233 Barrancas Avenue, selling lobster shipped from the northeast. Clams, mussels and local crabs joined the offerings – as well as clothes and

jewelry.

Frechette recruited her sister, Woolverton, to add shoes to the offerings.

“Lobsters, clams, mussels in the back, clothes and jewelry in the front,” mused Frechette.

“It worked perfectly,” Childs said. “They bought all of it.”

It was a learning curve for the sisters and their mother.

“I’d never been to market,” laughed Woolverton, whose business is Mainly Shoes. “I didn’t know you bought them in twelves. I had no idea what I was doing!”

After hurricanes and power outages – anathema to a lobster market – the seafood side of the business shut down. But the sisters and mom had found a fashion and friendship niche with Pensacola shoppers.

“We closed the lobster market and just became The Market,” Frechette said.

The name of Woolverton’s business was inspired by Mainly Baskets, which the trio admired while shopping the Atlanta market.

And so the two sisters forever merged their businesses into one dwelling, calling it The Market and Mainly Shoes. A Perdido Key location has been in business for 13 years and a short-lived store selling clothing and shoes geared toward boating was in the early 1990s located at the former Pitt Slip, currently Atlas Oyster House.

For 11 years, The Market and Mainly Shoes ran successfully out of the Barrancas warehouse-style building. But the sisters and their mom always envisioned moving further east.

CYCLES OF CHANGE

“We kind of wanted to be more uptown,” said Frechette.

So when 248 Garden Street came on the market, right next door to the popular Artesana Imports gift store, the

trio jumped at the opportunity. Under the direction of architect Hugh Leach, the quaint residence was transformed into a boutique oozing local flavor.

“We opened up the doorways and made it expansive so you could get from one room to the other,” explained Frechette.

Customers often parked and shopped both Artesana and The Market and Mainly Shoes.

Anne, Peg, Tish and then partner Tina Bond learned the ropes together. They traveled twice a year to markets – first in Atlanta, then Dallas and Los Angeles, before settling on New York.

All the while, Woolverton said, they made and continue to make lifetime

memories.

“They (memories) are meeting friends, doing business, great restaurants and seeing so many Broadway shows… we have a whole collection of framed Broadway play bills,” said Woolverton, who when pressed to choose said Cats and Jersey Boys were among the group’s favorites.

A large part of those memories included Tina Bond, who was a founding partner in the business. She died of a massive heart attack after returning from market in 2000. Yet her name is interwoven into the stories amassed over the 16 years she helped build the business.

“When you’re together all the time,

you go through a lot of passages together,” Frechette said.

The trio has seen fashions come and go over the years, but maintain allegiance to the beauty of simplicity.

GENERATIONAL STYLE

Her daughters credit Childs with inspiring a love for fashion.

“That’s where we got our love for clothes and shoes. Mother’s our total inspiration,” Frechette said.

Childs, who watched her own mother vacuum in spike heels, grew up in an era before “fast fashion” when women’s wardrobes were smaller, yet longer lasting. When her girls were growing up in the Jackie Onassis era,

“We’ve kind of changed as we’ve aged and grown and our customers have. We buy what we love and what we wear. That’s how we’ve always done it – we also listen to our customers.”

— Anne Frechette

Childs learned to cover their shoes with fabric to match their dresses.

Fashion is in her blood and always on her radar.

“Our clothes could appeal to different generations because they’re classic and simple,” said Childs. “Trends don’t dictate but your eyes are open and you’re just in tune to it wherever you go.”

The styles at their store have evolved with the owners.

“We’ve kind of changed as we’ve aged and grown and our customers have,” Frechette said. “We buy what we love and what we wear. That’s how we’ve always done it – we also listen to our customers.”

After 25 years at their Garden Street location, the trio was ready to become part of the bustling, revitalized retail scene on Palafox Street.

“We wanted to be where things were happening and we didn’t have any walk-in traffic,” Frechette said about the Garden Street location. “It was hip down here after Studer did all that renovation and we happened upon this building, and it was for rent...Studer was the breath of fresh air that we needed. Every week you hear about a new restaurant that opens.”

So, the business became part of the Palafox action when they moved into their new location in early 2017, opening up the space and utilizing the adjacent gazebo for events, including parties honoring Blue Angels spouses.

Walk-in traffic and burgeoning tourism are fueling sales.

“We’ve always had tourism, but it seems like it’s really exploded,” noted Frechette.

“It’s almost year-round,” agreed Woolverton. “We have a lot of repeat customers who come back every year.”

Fashion shows, top-shelf customer service, memory-making trips to market, timeless clothes and the relationships built over 38 years in business fill the trio’s lives. It’s a rhythm that Frechette is happy to maintain.

“We keep saying, ‘Well, how much longer are we going to stay in business?’ We will keep on until something tells us to stop.”

body & soul

The woman in the mirror

A look at body dysmorphia and the continuous negative thoughts many women struggle with

By Leah Seacrest

When you look in the mirror what do you see?

The reflection tends to go deeper than what looks back at us. Gazing into the windows of our eyes, every line on our face, each pudge or scar tells a story of our past, a look at our present and a yearning for what will be reflected in the future. Typically, it’s a harsh assessment and critique of self instead of a celebration of a life lived. Unapologetically we rip ourselves apart with ridicule – we aren’t nice. Our self-worth is tightly tied to the reflection we see in the mirror.

A message sent into the social media universe looking for women experiencing any level of body dysmorphia received an alarming number of replies

“I turned 36…I just hate what I see in the mirror – I’ve gained 30 pounds; everything is flabby and wrinkly and has cellulite. I hate my neck, my teeth, all of it…while I keep telling myself – ‘you’re aging, things are slowing down, etc.,’ I see young, perfect, skinny women everywhere – it seems to be all I see when I go in public.”

“My struggle with the pursuit of thinness and body dysmorphia always had its roots in generational ideas of weight, beauty and self-worth. When I started having the body I have, my mother didn’t understand why I wasn’t 110 pounds and would try not to criticize, but also didn’t try to accentuate the positives – how strong I was, how much healthier I was–- it was still a struggle. It all takes a toll. I had to learn that my body was different, had different needs, and that has taken time.”

“I saved a pair of dress slacks that I wore as a med student to remind me how thin I really was when I was convinced that I was fat. I finally accepted myself after going through lengthy counseling for codependency after a divorce at 40. I have so much respect for the women of all sizes who wear their tight workout gear with confidence.”

The messages were raw, insidious and heartbreaking. Woman after woman commented with the continuous negative thoughts they feel about themselves, their daily struggles and the inability to “keep up.”

The intense hatred of perceived flaws in appearance was palpable.

“I can’t stand the lines on my face. A little filler goes a long way!”

“I love my kids, but this mom bod has got to go! I don’t even feel attractive anymore.”

“I’ll do whatever it takes to be skinny. Right now, that means I don’t really eat.”

WHAT IS BODY DYSMORPHIA?

According to Molly Kasper, licensed marriage and family therapist, body dysmorphia is a mental illness where a person has obsessive focus on real or perceived flaws in their image/ appearance. This more often affects women but can affect anyone of any age.

“I believe social media and the news has exacerbated this issue,” Kasper commented on triggers causing body dysmorphia. “It’s human nature to compare yourself to others, but social media, filters, seeing what celebrities look like, etc. has caused insecurity and unrealistic expectations of what we should look like. There is also an element of shame that often exists that is typically rooted in other things but manifest itself in body image issues and body dysmorphia.”

Kasper said to look out for these warning signs:

• Feeling insecure

• Negative self-talk

• Not wanting to go places because of how you look

• Comparing yourself to others

• Limiting food intake

She also suggests seeking professional help sooner than later.

“Most of these issues are rooted in other places,” Kasper said. “As cliché as it sounds, it’s often hurt and pain from childhood or other relationships causing shame and insecurity. None of us are without hurt from the past, so as soon as you notice any of these symptoms go find a therapist.”

Other suggestions from Kasper include: focus on being healthy not “skinny;” set healthy goals like being strong or running a 5K; don’t compare yourself to others; work to heal from any shame or “not good enough” feelings that exist.

Breaking the tunnel vision of dysmorphic thoughts can be tough. It’s a mirage that youth and being thin is the sole definition of beauty. Loving yourself and finding value in your purpose can help as well as surrounding yourself with those that are not caught up in appearance-related comparisons.

Help another woman and the generation of women coming up see their value by complimenting them on their contributions and life experiences instead of their appearance. By doing so, you affirm worth is not her outer appearance but more profound.

Let’s place more quality on character and accomplishments, starting with the woman you see in the mirror.

“It’s human nature to compare yourself to others, but social media, filters, seeing what celebrities look like, etc. has caused insecurity and unrealistic expectations of what we should look like. There is also an element of shame that often exists that is typically rooted in other things but manifest itself in body image issues and body dysmorphia.”

— Molly Kasper, licensed marriage and family therapist

Building relationships, growing a business, cultivating a personal life

Sabrina Simpson

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

By Magi Thomley Williams

When she reflects on her last four years, Sabrina Simpson couldn’t have dreamed a bigger dream, not in terms of dollars and cents, but in terms of experiences.

The business she owns with her husband, Anthony, has allowed her to be part of some amazing organizations: Pensacola Women’s Alliance, IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area and multiple business networking groups where she has met amazing people. Simpson, chief operating officer of Something Old Salvage, stresses the importance of building relationships.

“Sales and marketing mean nothing if you don’t build relationships,” Simpson said. “Relationships have been the X Factor in our business.”

Building those relationships has helped her to understand that she is not alone. A product or service may be unique, but running a business is based on a formula.

“Have a lot of people you feel comfortable talking with about both wins and struggles,” she recommended to entrepreneurs. “Struggles help you grow and get to the wins. It’s OK to say, ‘I’m not OK today.’ You are not alone, we all have those struggles. Growth involves knowing when you need help and asking for it.”

Asking for help hasn’t always been easy for Simpson. As the oldest of eight siblings, she was in a leadership role naturally and had to learn to delegate to siblings for family event planning. Personal growth has allowed her to recognize she can’t do everything and to understand the value of collaboration and delegation both in her personal and professional lives. Before, she looked at the bottom line in revenue, not in terms of her own time and energy. Now her ROI is measured on her time. That change freed her to do activities where she excels and allowed her to be strategic instead of tactical in planning. She and her husband divided chores, and she now asks for help from him; before he didn’t know she needed help because she just did everything.

Simpson has worked with family members and friends in the past, so when opening SOS, she knew she needed separation and accountability.

“Things need to be black and white – gray areas cause trouble,” she explained.

She finds that working with her husband is both a blessing and a curse. Each have different roles, but a unique understanding of the business and the work the other does. She and her husband have different work styles and strengths that make the business better and more successful. They do find it hard to turn off work on date night or vacation, it’s their livelihood so they have chosen to embrace the blending of work and personal life.

Simpson’s youngest sister, Kineka Durr, also works at SOS. Durr goes above and beyond because she sees the vision for the business and wants to see it succeed. Simpson trusts her sister, but holds her accountable, provides a formal job description and has the same expectations for all employees. Familial relationships can cause friction, but Simpson believes she has stronger relationships with both her sister and her sister-in-law, Kimberly Simpson, because they work together.

“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is prioritizing,” Simpson said. “My to-do list used to be massive, it became so overwhelming I would just want to stay in bed and not do anything, but the books ‘Eat That Frog’ and ‘The 12 Week Year’ have been instrumental in helping me change how I approach to-do lists. I don’t put off hard tasks, I make a list of three top things to complete for the day, and I set weekly, monthly and quarterly goals to help knock out goals more efficiently and I have a sense of accomplishment.”

One priority for her is to take time away from business to step back, renew, refocus and come back with different energy. She plans time away so she has something to look forward to.

The Simpsons have plans for continued business growth, too. Services at SOS will soon expand outside Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

“Our junk removal company afforded us the opportunity to begin real estate investing two years ago. We met clients who were burdened with a property, and we were able to help them sell the asset. This led me to become a Realtor with Service Matters Realty to provide our clients with an even more seamless process when buying or selling.”

Simpson describes the evolution of another business venture in technology.

“Things I learned in running a business led me to form a technology startup designed to provide business owners with actionable insights based on in-depth analyses,” she said. “The goal is for a business owner to not only be able to allocate every penny in revenue but to forecast expenses and invest in real time. I majored in Elementary Education in college and always had a passion for teaching, so I enjoy mentoring other business owners.”

Simpson advises women to believe in themselves.

“I think taking a chance on yourself is one of the best things you can do for you. Believing in your mission, idea, goal and calling is so fulfilling. Look for resources to help you and always be willing to become a resource to someone. I believe we should have a giver mindset and always be willing to reach back and help someone. Trust the process. Trust yourself. Trust your plan.”

Magi Thomley Williams is a corporate consultant, writer, speaker, and trainer at Thomley Consulting. She can be reached at Magi@ThomleyConsulting.com.

MUST SEE

MIRRORS

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

For a time, the visual appeal of a mirror was only that of its reflection. Whether looking at ourselves or at our comfortable surroundings, the mirror has become an ever-increasing focal point of home design.

“Mirrors and specifically interesting mirrors are placed in every project. To us they are sculptural pieces of art – even in a bathroom,” said Cheryl Kees Clendenon, creative director of In Detail Interiors. “Not chosen to simply reflect back your image, but to be enjoyed on their own singular merit. Mirrors also reflect light in a room and other features in the room.”

Clendenon also shared a professional tip when choosing the perfect spot for these pieces of art.

“When you place a mirror in a space, consider what you see reflected when you first glance at the mirror. This is as important as the mirror placement itself.”

Where to

Photo by Barrett McClean

Round reclaimed metal nugget mirror, 42-inch diameter overall, mirror 18-inch diameter, $1,300.

Photo by Greg Riegler

Rectangular black MOP shell mirror, 30-inch by 52-inch, $1,900.

Photo by Greg Riegler

Round knob black leather and gold mirror (discontinued), 32-inch diameter, $1,900.

Round upholstered mirror in wood and mauve leather (custom), 36.5-inch diameter, $2,300.

Photo by Greg Riegler

Photo by Barrett McClean

Recipe Reflections

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

These days, with TikTok, YouTube and Pinterest we’re never in need of the perfect recipe. Whether it’s a five-minute meal or trying your hand at something new, there’s something to be said about those culinary creations that are handed down through the generations.

Tom Glenn Oysters

Courtesy of Chef Keith Pardue, Culinary Director of South Market

Ingredients

• 18-24 raw oysters, shucked

Oyster Topping Sauce

• 1 lb. smoked Tasso ham, shredded

• 1 qt. heavy whipping cream

• 1 oz. white cooking wine

• 1 oz. shallot, Brunoise cut

• 1/2 oz. minced garlic

• 8 oz. unsalted butter

• 2 oz. grated parmesan cheese

Panko Topping

• 4 oz. panko breadcrumbs

• 2 oz. grated parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp. kosher salt

In a large saucepan, melt butter at low heat and add Tasso. Render the Tasso until it is browned. Add shallot and garlic then toast. Deglaze with white wine and reduce by half. Add heavy cream and reduce by a quarter. Once reduced, turn off the heat and add parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Place in the refrigerator to fully cool and thicken.

In a food processor add panko breadcrumbs, salt and parmesan cheese then completely incorporate.

Once the sauce is fully cooled and thick, place one tablespoon on each shucked oyster followed by one teaspoon of panko topping. Put in the oven at 400 degrees until breadcrumbs are golden brown. Put on a plate and enjoy.

A seafood staple of the Gulf Coast, the oyster has always had a special place in the heart of Pensacola. And it’s especially so when the recipe symbolizes family traditions.

South Market’s culinary director Keith Pardue reflects the very deep meaning of the outstanding oyster presentation.

“When I was a kid, my grandfather, Thomas Glenn Miller, taught me how to shuck oysters. I used to sit on the tailgate of his truck with a flathead screwdriver and a bucket while we would shuck bushels of oysters for our family. After we would shuck them, we would grill them with butter, Tasso ham and garlic. I wrote this recipe to honor my grandfather and every time I see one get sold in our restaurant I always look up to the sky knowing he is smiling down.”

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Growing up, MariCarmen Josephs and her family would typically forgo the turkey and stuffing for holiday meals. In fact, it wasn’t unusual for her dinner table to feature an array of authentic international cuisine any day of the year.

“While fancy, multi-course dinners were commonplace at home when I was growing up, I always looked forward to the splendor of holiday meals,” she reflects.

Fortunately for Josephs, her mother Juliet DeMarko is an internationally trained chef and restaurateur who is always able to capture the flavor and flair of her creations. Josephs said the holidays usually led to showstopping creations.

“She always took a little extra time during the holidays to make something that was sure to ‘wow.’ Love is in the details after all.”

Josephs explained that Chiles en Nogadas was perhaps her mother’s favorite dish. DeMarko traveled to Mexico a number of times, especially since one of her daughters and her three grandchildren resided there. Although this dish is normally served in the fall around late September in Mexico, Chiles en Nogadas is also an excellent holiday dish representing both the colors of the Mexican flag and the spirit of Christmas.

“Roasted green poblano peppers are stuffed with a meat and fruit-filled picadillo, then coated in a decadent white walnut sauce only to be garnished with jewel-like, crimson pomegranate seeds,” Josephs said. And just like the recipe itself and the women who create it, the presentation is dramatic, and the sweet and savory flavors bring all the warm feels.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Chiles En Nogadas

• 1/8 tsp ground clove

• 1 tsp. chipotle chile powder

• 1 tbsp. freshly grated ginger

• 1 cup unsweetened spiced apple cider

Nogada Sauce Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups walnut halves (see instructions below)

• Whole milk for soaking walnuts

• 1 cup Mexican-style crema (sour cream)

• 2 oz. whole milk

• 2 oz. Mexican queso fresco

• 2 oz. cream cheese

• 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

• 2 tbsp. brown sugar

• 1/4 tsp. salt

Start the nogada sauce one day in advance. Blanch and peel the walnuts by cooking them in boiling water for one minute and then shocking them in an ice bath. Drain the walnuts. Peel the skins off by breaking the walnuts in half and peeling the skins where you can get the skin to run. While this process is quite tedious, it will yield a much smoother and less bitter sauce. Once peeled, soak the nuts in whole milk overnight in the fridge.

To make the sauce, drain the walnuts and combine all ingredients in the blender and purée until very smooth. Serve sauce at room temperature.

Meat & Fruit Filling Ingredients

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 cups yellow onions, small dice

• 1/4 cup shallots, fine dice

• 1 tsp. salt

• 1 can (14.5-oz.) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes

• 1/4 cup sherry, medium sweet (optional)

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 cup golden raisins

• 3 lbs. freshly ground pork

• 2 tsp. kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

• 1 tsp. smoked paprika

• 2 tsp. ground coriander

• 1/4 tsp. ground cumin

• 2 tsp. ground cinnamon

• 1 cup Bartlett pear, diced, skin on

• 1 cup crisp apple, diced, skin on (such as honey crisp)

• 1 cup honey mango, diced

• 1 cup toasted pine nuts

• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves & stems, chopped

Sauté the onions, shallots and salt in olive oil until tender, approximately 15 minutes over medium heat. Add the canned tomatoes, sherry and bay leaves. Simmer for another 10 minutes. Add the golden raisins to plump.

In a separate large sauté pan, start browning the ground pork over high heat. Add the mixture of dried spices and continue browning. Add the fresh ginger and tomato sauce to the meat and continue stirring and cooking for another 10 minutes. Add the spiced apple cider, the fresh diced fruit and the toasted pine nuts and stir to combine.

Finish with chopped cilantro. Reserve meat filling.

Peppers & Garnishes Ingredients

• 8 poblano

•

peppers

Pomegranate arils

• Fresh cilantro

Roast the poblanos over an open gas flame. Allow the peppers to blacken completely on all sides. Place peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Once cooled, peel and clean peppers.

Cut a slit down the middle of the peppers to remove the seeds and seed sack. Once cleaned, stuff peppers generously with the meat filling. Transfer the peppers to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake the peppers at 375 degrees until hot, approximately 30 minutes.

Transfer each hot pepper to an individual dinner plate. Spoon the walnut sauce over each pepper. Garnish with pomegranate arils and fresh cilantro. Serve one whole pepper to each guest as the main course.

Gluten-free. Courtesy of MariCarmen Josephs, Carmen’s Lunch Bar & Tapas, and Juliet DeMarko

Katherine Murphy Creel, president of Junior League Pensacola, with the Junior League’s popular cookbooks that are in many kitchens in Pensacola: “Some Like it South!” and “By Invitation Only.”

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

The Junior League of Pensacola

Fostering volunteerism and collaboration among women for over three decades

By Magi Thomley Williams

Since 1956, The Junior League of Pensacola has provided opportunities for women to volunteer, collaborate and train for civic leadership.

“Junior League Pensacola is now, and always has been, a group of women interested in empowering themselves through volunteer action, collaboration, training and engagement with other women,” said Katherine Murphy Creel, president of Junior League Pensacola, Inc. and tax accountant at Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund.

The organization continues to support children’s health and wellness, as it has from inception. Another constant is Lexie Thorsen, the executive director for 33 years. She embodies a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm for Junior League of Pensacola.

In the six years Murphy Creel has been a member, some things have evolved with the times. Social changes demanded adaptation in how Junior League Pensacola raises funds. In years past, Market Basket and the Annual Bargain Sale were staples for Pensacola and surrounding communities. With the popularity of Etsy and many local makers’ markets, changing demands on the time of working women and a changing economy, Junior League developed two signature events to replace the dated fundraisers.

Each year, Junior League recognizes and

celebrates the outstanding contributions of women and young ladies in the Pensacola area with the Women’s Empowerment Awards. These awards honor exceptional women of all ages, of diverse cultures and roles, celebrating the power of individuals to spark change and improve their community and beyond. Held in March, in 2023 the event will take place in the evening to accommodate the schedules of more working women. Nominations for deserving women in various categories such as Woman in Business, Woman in Philanthropy, Youth Woman in Leadership and Hometown Hero can be made at pensacola.jl.org/ empowerment

Evening in White, held in April, is a pop-up picnic where attendees wear their most fabulous white attire and bring their own picnic baskets and white decor. The fundraiser is held each year in a mystery location in Pensacola, the location remains a surprise until the day of the event. Proceeds from both the Women’s Empowerment Awards and Evening in White benefit the Junior League of Pensacola’s charitable outreach efforts.

One fundraiser that has remained the same is the sale of “Some Like it South!” – the Junior League’s cookbook, first published in 1984. At the time, cookbooks were a popular fundraiser for many Junior Leagues across the country, but quite an undertaking back then.

“No computer was used for layout, design

Support the Junior League

“Some Like It South!” retails for $21.95 and “By Invitation Only” retails for $29.95. Both can be purchased at locations around Pensacola including Artesana, Joe Patti’s, Rusted Arrow, Celebrations and Pensacola Lighthouse. Copies can be ordered by calling the Junior League of Pensacola office at 850-433-4421, and members sell them at local vendor markets where they offer special event pricing.

or production,”

Murphy Creel explained. Yet the publication has stood the test of time with a place in most local kitchens. One of her favorite recipes has also stood the test of time – Hot Crab Dip is versatile enough for a tailgate, yet elegant enough for a New Year’s Eve celebration.

“By Invitation Only,” published in 2002, is a second book offered for sale by the Junior League. The format offers an entire menu plan along with recipes to make event planning creative and easy for today’s busy woman. Inventive celebrations include Blue Angel Air Show Beach Party, Ghost Awakening and Gathering of the Goddesses.

Among Murphy Creel’s favorite recipes from this printing is Peach Pound Cake, put forward as a menu item for a traditional Southern Bridal Tea. “By Invitation Only” is beautifully illustrated by award-winning artist Paul Jackson and is as much a coffee table book featuring Pensacola sites as a cookbook.

Other things have changed with the times, too. Membership requirements in the 1980s included rigorous volunteer hours. Now the organization is more inclusive with more relaxed volunteer requirements. Dues are $250 for New Members and $200 for Active Members, while Sustainers pay lower dues rates.

“Sustainers stick around just to have fun; they have no meeting or fundraising requirements, and only participate in community service as they like,” Murphy Creel said.

Unlike Junior Leagues in other cities, membership in the Pensacola chapter is open to anyone who has an interest in volunteering and a heart for the mission. Monthly meetings are held at the Pensacola Yacht Club and include an educational speaker. Recent speakers covered such timeless topics as voting issues and voter registration, diversity and inclusion and women’s health. The public is invited to open house events, held from April through the summer.

With a legacy of service and progress, Junior League of Pensacola members clearly have deep roots in the past and a strong heart for the future of Pensacola’s women and children.

Visit Pensacola.JL.org for details on upcoming open house events.

Magi Thomley Williams is a corporate consultant, writer, speaker, and trainer at Thomley Consulting. She can be reached at Magi@ThomleyConsulting.com.

Peach Pound Cake

From “By Invitation Only”

Serves 16

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups chopped drained fresh peaches

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

• 3 cups sugar

• 6 eggs

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1 tsp. almond extract

Mix the flour, baking soda and salt together. Mix the peaches and sour cream in a bowl.

Cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs 1 at a time. Add the dry ingredients alternately with the peach mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extract.

Spoon into a greased and floured bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 ¼ hours or until the cake tests done. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Remove to a wire rack to cool completely. Garnish with confectioners’ sugar and serve with additional peaches and whipped cream.

You may substitute thawed frozen peaches for fresh when they are not in season.

Hot Crab Dip

From “Some Like It South!”

Yield: 4 cups

• 1 8-ounce package cream cheese

• 1 tsp. lemon juice

• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

• 2 drops Tabasco sauce

• 1/2 tsp. pressed garlic

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 pound crabmeat, picked and cleaned

Melt cream cheese on top of double boiler. Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat thoroughly and serve with crackers of your choice.

out&about

Stepping Out in Style

Photos by Lakesha Davis

BRENT AND ANGELA LANE

Pensacola Opera held its signature fall fundraising event on Sept. 23 at Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, in honor and memory of Drs. Jim and Nell Potter.

TRACEY THOMAS DOYLE, M.D. WEARING MARKET & MAINLY SHOES

RENEE BOOKOUT, WEARING CABI

LESLIE BARNES REMSKI, M.D. WEARING CABI

KIM BERNSTEIN, WEARING BLUETIQUE

CHOICE GRAY, WEARING DILLARD’S

JOY SHARP, WEARING DILLARD’S

ROCKY PARRA, WEARING BLUETIQUE

Because this is our corner of the world, and our responsibility to help it thrive.

Where dreaming meets doing.

MALLORY STUDER, WEARING BLUETIQUE

LINDA HINSON, WEARING BLUETIQUE

KATHI ODOM, WEARING THE SOUTH OUTFITTERS

CHRISTINE HAWKINS, MICHELLE BROOKS, DR. KIMBERLY THOMAS, TASHANDRA UNDERWOOD DR. LAURA WORTHYLAKE, ANN KEIEK, APRIL BALL

BEVIN WEEKS, AMY THOMAS, NICOLE WEST ANGEL ROBBINS, VALERIE WADDELL, MELANIE SUEVA

PAIGE HINRICHS, MIRELLA GATTERDAM, KIM BERSTEIN, JESSICA RYBERG

DONNA DICKEY, LAUREN GADDY

HEATHER MOORER, SHERI NEGUS, ANN KEIEK, MARK FAULKNER, OLYMPIA FAULKNER, RACHEL HERMAN, ANNA KISOR, KAREN BRANTLEY, KC GARTMAN

SUE STRAUGHN

BUFFY SOUTHERN, KIM FRANKLIN, MELISSA GOELLER, MEGAN JONES

JENNIFER WELLS, WHITNEY ADAMS, TIFFANY WOODWARD

ANNA WILLHITE, SHELDA BROUGHTON

ANNA WILLHITE, SHELDA BROUGHTON, AMY PURVIS, LINDSAY KELLY, MITZI WINTERS, RHIANNON COOPER

LAUREN MASSEY, MEGAN CORNLEY, NATOSYA GALLANT, STEPHANIE KNIGHT

VALERIE WILSON, LORI KIZZIAH, ELIZABETH OHLHORST, BETH LOCKLEY

MADRINA CIANO, REAGAN POMMIER

Ella L. Jordan African American History Museum Grand Opening

The Ella L. Jordan African American History Museum held its official grand opening on Oct. 15. Guests enjoyed a brief program and tours of the restorations and exhibits.

by Lakesha Davis

Photos

MELONDY NEAL, DRUCILLA JAMES, SADIE KNIGHT, ALMA WOODS, MONICA WOODS

RON MCELROY, DAVID BAKER, RICHARD TARTY, ALVON COLSTON

WILL VAUGHN, WALTER GULLEY JR.

SADIE KNIGHT, GEORGIA BLACKMON, EDDIE TODD, DAVID DEL GALLO, ROBERT OVERTON, WALTER GULLEY JR, DANIELLE MULLET, JANET PILCHER

DEDRA HALL, ALEXIS KNIGHT

AVID DEL GALLO, ANNA DEL GALLO

DR. ROBIN LARGUE, PEGGY PILCHER

ANIELLE MULLET, SPENCER MULLET

ROBERT OVERTON, BRADLEY DAVIS JR.

Woodlands Womens Health Night

Woodlands held an informative Women’s Health Night event on Oct. 6. The night of women’s health and wellness featured mini manicures, massages, a photo booth, breast health tours, blood pressure checks and more.

by Lakesha Davis

Photos

STEPHANIE HOWARD, PAM BROWN, DENISE JONES, NESI MARSHALL, CRYSTAL BELL, LEXUS COLEMAN, LINDSAY HUNT

CHRISTINA DUCKWORTH, ANGELA ZIEBARTH

MARY JOHNSON, DEANNA CHEATHEM

SHERRI WHALEN, JENNIFER GINGREY, LOUISE VIDEAU, MELANIE DUBALL, JACQUI O’CONNELL

BETHANY STOCK, CRYSTAL MANNING

NIKKI KELLEY KELLY HARRIS

MEAGAN KENNEDY , LAUREL LOWRY

ROBIN PEGG

Light Up Learning

The Studer Community Institute held its annual fundraiser Light Up Learning at the Blue Wahoos Stadium on Oct. 20. The night consisted of great food, silent and live auctions, professional athletes, speakers, a paddle raise and a chance to win a car. All proceeds go toward Early Learning in order to make sure children in our community are prepared for kindergarten.

Photos by Lakesha Davis

FRED ROBBINS, TIA ROBBINS, MARK CIANO, TENIADE BROUGHTON, EMORY SMITH, AARON WATSON, KIMBERLY WATSON, SABRINA SIMPSON, ANTHONY SIMPSON

SABRINA SIMPSON, SEPTEMBER DYE

MICHAEL HOBBS, DANNON BYRD

REGAN DRAULIS, LINDSEY TORGERSEN, VICTORIA BARNES, MARY KATHERINE GOTTSTINE

SYDNEY DAWSON, TIA ROBBINS

CASSANDRA ROBERSON, JOHANNA ALLARD

KRYSTAL SHEPPARD, ASHLEY ROWZEE, ERVIN BYRD

RISHY STUDER, QUINT STUDER

Brunch & Bubbles

Gulf Coast Kid’s House held its annual Brunch and Bubbles fundraiser at the beautiful Portofino Island Resort on Oct. 23. Guests enjoyed premier champagne and delicious brunch bites

Photos by Lakesha Davis

from several area chefs while being wowed by aerialists that performed over the pool.

LESLIE & KEVIN RYAN, COURTNEY & LUCAS HENDERSON

STEPHANIE KNIGHT, JOSHUA CARTER

LAURA BREWER, SARAH TIMMONS

MADRINA CIANO, MERI ASMAR

DEBBIE HAYMAN, JENNIFER COBB

ANNA KREIS, BONNIE WITKIN, TARA DOMINGUEZ, INGRID HEWETTE

DIANE RIPLEY, PEGGY BUTLER, TERI LEVIN

RANDI LAWRENCE , STACEY KOSTEVICKI

SMF Imports Launch Party

The SMF Imports website and its owner Suze Finger held a launch party at Fiore on Oct. 12. Accessories designer Mignonne “Maggie” Gavigan was the featured guest. Attendees enjoyed curated cocktails, delicious cuisine from Classic City Catering and live music while shopping from from the curated collections from SMF Imports, an extensive Mignonne Gavigan trunk show, En Lieu Design Co. accessories and Amy Jo Original Hats.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

JEWELRY DESIGNED BY MIGNONNE GAVIGAN

MARY GAMBLE, DONNA DICKEY, JOENA RUSHING , MIGNONNE GAVIGAN, ALLY SHUMPERT, SHANNON PALIN

ANNIE MALONE, MIGNONNE GAVIGAN, COURTNEY MARTIN

ELEANOR MEDLOCK

LILY SEXTON, SUZE FINGER

KATIE KEETO, LAUREN PRESLEY, BROOKE FLEMING

I'll quarterback that! her perspective

The other day I was in a committee meeting with a bunch of young whippersnappers and I lost track of the discussion because of my fascination with the plethora of new lingo.

We’ve all heard “reach out” – like I’ll reach out to that client and resolve the issue. Unfortunately, every time I hear it I start to sing, “Darling Reach Out,” in my best Four Tops impression (in my head of course) and I can’t pay attention. Back in my day, we just said we’d contact the client to resolve the issue. But I suppose contact is no longer a verb. It is now someone who lives in your phone or something you wear instead of glasses.

“Circle back” is another new term that messes with my head. Every time someone says, “Let’s circle back to that issue,” I circle back to the mosh pit of 1983 when I lived in London and slam danced to the Circle Jerks’ song, “Wild in the Streets.” I bruised a rib at a Buzzcocks concert but that’s another story. I can’t make myself say circle jerk, oops I mean circle back, so I’ll just say follow up.

But I digress – back to that committee meeting. My mind was blown when someone said, “Who wants to quarterback that project?”

What a fantastic word to incorporate into a business meeting! My mind marinated (look at me using the new lingo) on that word for the rest of the meeting.

If you know me well, you know of my obsession with quarterbacks. I dated one for two years in high school so maybe that’s where it all began. Kurt Warner, the only undrafted player to be named NFL MVP and Super Bowl MVP, is my favorite of all time. His Cinderella story is inspiring. He and his wife have seven children and I am one of seven children, so we have a lot in common. I am still sad he didn’t win Dancing with the Stars.

Aaron Rogers is another favorite. My husband and I attended a wedding in the Wisconsin Dells but I was more

excited about the tour I booked at Lambeau field. That place is cccccold. The turtleneck I bought for my husband, George, looks monogrammed but really it stands for Green Bay. The cheesehead hats were hard to fit into my suitcase but our kids loved them.

I used to like the Jets quarterback, Mark Sanchez, but I have never forgiven him for eating that hot dog.

Yes, I know that Joe Burrow is afraid to watch scary movies, including “Harry Potter” and “Lord of the Rings,” and his favorite show is “SpongeBob.” But everybody knows that, right? I love his Krusty Krab sweatshirt, Squidward beanie and custom SpongeBob high tops. He is a fashion icon as well as a great quarterback. And oh, those blue eyes.

Then there is Tim Tebow. If you ever go to Seville Quarter, look for the photo of Timmy and me in Fast Eddie’s pool hall. I never really stalked him – I just always booked a hotel room close to his when we traveled to Gainesville for football games. And I didn’t ask for that life-size cardboard cutout of him for my birthday – my husband surprised me with it. Yes, I forced my family to go to a Denver Broncos game during fall break to see Timmy play, but that builds character.

“Kids, Disney World will always be there, but Timmy may only be in the NFL for a short time.”

One of my favorite memories is sitting next to Pam Tebow when she was a keynote speaker in Pensacola. I was struggling with whether to spoil my kids or not – like do I do their laundry or make them do it themselves? She advised, “Do their laundry. Do everything you can for them. Because once they go, they’re gone. And you will wish you could do their laundry.”

Then I asked her how she raised such disciplined, kind, amazing kids. She responded, “Just love them. Just always let them know how much you love them.”

I’ll quarterback that.

Liz Biggs is a Pensacola native and mother of four. Once upon a time, she had a high-pressure career but now she has a pension and is a freelance writer for Bella Magazine. Liz enjoys music, dancing, tennis and travel and tries to find humor in everything.