BACK TO COOL
• Going back to school is cool with a world-class university right here
• Fashion channels cooler weather
• It’s Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month
ALSO INSIDE:
• Family Promise
• Susan James
• The Westcott Story
• Sonshine’s Corner
Talk About It Tuesday on
Sonshine’s Corner
Bella Magazine is teaming up with Sonshine’s Corner to bring you the most inspirational show on the Gulf Coast — and you’re invited!
Join us live at 9 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month on WPAN-TV / BLAB-TV for Talk About It Tuesday — a powerful, uplifting hour featuring Bella’s finest: beautiful women, bold voices, smart conversations, and stories that empower, inspire, and uplift.
From Escambia to Santa Rosa, we’re changing the conversation and celebrating the confidence, culture, and community that make us shine. So grab your coffee, tell a friend, and tune in.
Sonshine’s Corner + Bella Magazine — where sass meets substance.
Let’s talk about it.
The place to be inspired,informed & uplifted
An Evening of Fashion
49th Annual Fashion Show
Oct. 23, 2025
Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center 913 South I St.
5:30 p.m. Cocktails, Silent Auction and Charcuterie
6:30 p.m. Program and Live Auction
7 p.m. Fashion Show
Sponsorships Available
For sponsorship information, visit baptisthealthcarefoundation.org or call 448.227.8150.
Thank you to our generous presenting sponsors:
from the editor
Welcome to the Cool Club, Bellas, Just by opening this issue, you’re automatically a member. No need to dress a certain way or to know the current phrases (“As if!”). It’s even better if you’ve learned to embrace your powers of unique you-ness! This club loves you for being yourself. Now let’s go recruit some more members!
There’s something wonderful about how the world is helping us learn to highlight our natural beauty, style and gifts. I’m so glad to know that I never have to wear skinny-leg or low-waisted jeans ever again, because they don’t look good on me. Instead, I’ve learned that the key to fashion is to figure out your own style and body type, and dress in what looks and feels good to YOU.
Don’t even get me started on hair — not only does a center part look horrible on me (my hair stylist, Brian, will attest to this), but my hair simply won’t go there. These days, however, practically everything is in, so I don’t need to worry that I don’t have the on-trend hair part.
There is no cookie-cutter way to be anymore, and the world is learning to cherish young and old, big and small, and every glorious shade we humans come in.
So then, what exactly is cool? To me, cool is confidence. It’s intelligence. It’s kindness. It’s making the world a better place while leaving a trail of glittery love in your wake. Cool is whenever you find your purpose and then live it with all your heart. It’s that feeling of exhaustion from really hard work when the endorphins are swirling and making you smile with accomplishment. It’s cheering each other on.
So as the kids go back to school, and the weather (hopefully) gets back to cool, you keep working on being your own brand of cool. We think you’re hot, Bellas!
— Lisa Player
Do you enjoy Bella? Would you like to share your thoughts? Feel free to reach out to me anytime at lisa@bellamagazine.com.
PUBLISHER / Kelly MacLeod
EDITOR / Lisa Player
ART DIRECTOR / Elizabeth Meyer
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Liz Biggs, Sharla Gorder, Allison McCrory, Chelsea Owens, Leslie Peck, Cynthia Reeves, Justine Williams Roper, Magi Thomley Williams
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Toni Sparks, Kate Treick
SEND EDITORIAL INQUIRIES AND STORY IDEAS TO KELLY@BELLAMAGAZINE.COM
To Advertise
SALES@BELLAMAGAZINE.COM OR CALL (833) 358-4486
Bella is published the last week of each month and distributed free throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in Florida. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the editor.
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meet the team
Liz Biggs, writer/columnist
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.
Kristin Holifield Cagle, advertising
Kristin Holifield Cagle is a fifth-generation Pensacola native who loves to help women and business owners alike achieve their goals. With a master’s degree from the University of West Florida, she specializes in marketing. She is the mother of two and enjoys soaking up the sun at the beach and spending time with family in her spare time.
Sharla Gorder, writer/columnist
Sharla Dawn Gorder is a Pensacola Beach resident and columnist for the Island Times newspaper. She is the author of “My Vices Collide; a Celebration of Being a Little Messed Up,” and “Crayon Dawn,” a coffee table book sold in stores throughout the Pensacola area and at her website, crayondawn.com.
Jennifer Harrison, advertising
Jennifer Harrison is a Pensacola native (via the Navy). She is involved in the Pensacola community through IMPACT 100, Pensacola Navy Days, charitable food distributions, Leadership Pensacola, ECPS Foundation, Achieve Escambia, ECCPTA and more.
Allison McCrory, writer/fashion stylist
Allison McCrory is almost a Pensacola native who has worked in writing and editing since 1984 when she started with The News, an afternoon newspaper that later merged with the morning Journal. The mom of two adult kids, Allison suffers from a tennis addiction, practices yoga and loves to cook.
Elizabeth Meyer, art director
Elizabeth Meyer spent her early career as a designer and design director at newspapers across the country. She is currently an adjunct instructor and director of The McKinley Avenue Agency at Ball State University. Betsy was born in Pensacola while her father was in the U.S. Navy.
Chelsea Owens, writer
Chelsea Owens grew up in Gulf Breeze and received degrees in communications and art from the University of West Florida. She has a lifelong passion for style and art, and over 10 years of social media and marketing experience. She is also a pilates instructor who enjoys both staying busy and relaxing at the beach.
Cynthia Reeves, writer
Long-time writer Cynthia Reeves spent 25 years as a broadcast journalist across the southeast, including 10 years as a news reporter at WEAR-TV in Pensacola. As a high school teacher of journalism, TV production and English, she passed her skills down to young writers. She also served several years as District 1 director for the Florida Scholastic Press Association.
Justine Williams Roper, writer
Justine Williams Roper is a doctor of physical therapy, personal trainer, and speaker from Pensacola. She has written women's health articles for publications like Essence and enjoys all things movement and food. She is the proud owner of InHer Physique Pelvic Floor Therapy & Wellness, where her passion for women’s health truly shines.
Leslie Peck, writer/beauty expert
Leslie Peck is a local aesthetician, makeup artist, lash artist and brow specialist. She has experience in TV, film, print and celebrity makeup in Los Angeles and 11 seasons of NYC Fashion week. Leslie was featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal in 2007 for her work at Fashion Week.
Leah Seacrest, writer/fitness expert
Leah Seacrest, a seasoned fitness industry veteran with over 30 years, experience in group fitness and personal training, co-owns REGYMEN Fitness Pensacola and is the SVP of REGYMEN Fitness overseeing operations and franchise growth. She is a mother of three and loves spending time outdoors.
Sonshine, writer
Sonshine is a Northwest Florida media personality, currenting hosting “Sonshine’s Corner” on BLAB TV. She is a business consultant, author, motivational speaker and fitness consultant. Sonshinemoorer@gmail.com.
Toni Sparks, photographer
Toni Sparks is a proud Pensacola native. As the visionary behind Short Story Studios, Toni is dedicated to creating magazine-quality images with elegance and style. Her experiences infuse her photography with a unique perspective that celebrates and elevates every moment.
Kate Treick, photographer
Kate Treick is a professional photographer, writer, speaker and publisher who has called Pensacola home since 2012. She and her husband, Joel, have two teenaged kids and two funny little dogs. Kate loves spending time with friends, leading music at her church, reading and traveling. kate@katetreickphotography.com
Magi Thomley Williams, advertising/writer
Magi Thomley Williams, ACB, ALB is a business and nonprofit consultant, writer, trainer and speaker. Dedicated to improving her community by helping nonprofits build their boards, improve their media presence and attract donor funding, Magi enjoys writing about impactful nonprofits, thriving businesses and the women who lead them. Magi@ThomleyConsulting.com.
Teresa Torres Zwierzchowski, social media
Teresa Zwierzchowski has more than 20 years’ experience in communications, including more than 15 working for the Pensacola News Journal. She is a lover of all things communication including brand, culture, social media as well as community and public relations.
inside this issue
PROFILE
64 HER PERSPECTIVE: Confessions of a serial trend follower 66 HER PERSPECTIVE: Different strokes for different folks COVER Back to Cool Page 28
PRO TIPS
Susan James, Ph.D. Page 34
12 SPEND OR SAVE 14 FASHION: Back to cool vibes
BEAUTY: The magic of mascara 26 CAUSES: Family Promise
40 PROFILE: Sonshine
44 LOCAL FARE: From discovery to dynasty, Christine Broderick Emmanuel’s new book
LOCAL FARE: Coastal Chill Company
BODY & SOUL: Gynecological Cancer Month 52 LOCAL FARE: Cool-off tips for menopause
WORTH THE TRIP: Alluvian Hotel, Spa and Viking Cooking School 58 WORTH THE TRIP: Savannah
Golf with Kristen Dorsey Page 42 On the cover: Cortney Campus goes back to campus at UWF, proving that any time is the right time for learning. Find out more on page 28.
Photo by Kate Treick Photography
BY
spendorsave
• RLX Ralph Lauren cottonblend sleeveless sweater, $188, saksfifthavenue.com
• Faded unlined suede loafers, $1,020, miumiu.com
• Goyard Saint Louis PM tote bag, $2,200, fwrd.com
where to shop
• Sweater vest, $12.99, hm.com
• Jeffrey Campbell Boast boat shoe, $145, nordstrom.com
• A New Day coated canvas tote bag, $30, target.com
H&M: Cordova Mall, 5100 N. Ninth Ave., Pensacola; 855-466-7467; hm.com
Target: multiple area locations; target.com
CHELSEA OWENS / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED
Channel autumn fashion despite toasty temps fashion
Back to cool VIBES
By Allison McCrory
Don’t let balmy Gulf Coast weather deter dressing for visions of fall!
“As far as dressing for the change of season in the Florida heat, layers are the way to go!” advised Jill Noble of Drift Boutique on Nine Mile Road.
Popular brown tones evoke a fall mood as do lightweight and even short-sleeved sweaters. Also look for cinched waists, reminiscent of the ’40s and ’50s, pencil skirts and longer shorts.
“The wide leg and barrel-style denim are both sticking around,” said Noble. In fabrics, look for polka dots, sheer and lace fabrics.
Also, “leopard is big this fall. But some would debate it never truly goes out of style. It’s one that cycles every few seasons,” said Noble about the fierce forever feline print.
Accessory-wise, scarf necklaces are popular to add a fun, unique finishing touch. In footwear, look for comfy loafers and ballet flats.
Shopping list: Cinched waists are making a statement this season. This denim dress by Miou Muse, $84, is ripe for interpretation with a change of accessories.
Photos by Kate Treick Photography
Shopping list: If you choose one color this fall, make it brown! With the blessing of being Pantone’s color of the year, the warm earthy tone is infusing fashion.
Jayln House
Soon after completing high school at Tate, Pensacola native Jayln House earned her real estate license and worked that industry before deciding on a pivot.
“It is something I’m glad to have under my belt, but for now I’ve chosen to focus strictly on modeling and social media,” said House, who works as a cocktail server to pay the bills while growing her passions.
Summertime 2025 means beach time for House, who was unable to be outdoors much in recent summers.
“So, I have been trying to get out more because we really do have a beautiful beach.”
“The coolest thing I enjoy is probably making my ideas become reality and creating content that is authentic to me,” said House.
She is a long-time loyal customer of Coffee Guy Underground and hanging out with friends, sometimes taking in a favorite show.
House looks forward to forging a creative path.
“I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. I have a lot of inspiration and goals for the future.”
Shopping list: A matching set? Absolutely! Especially when it’s this comfy, stylish duo by Z Supply. Top is $44 and bottom is $59. This denim jacket by Z Supply, $119, just might just be your busiest garment all fall!
list: What
Shopping
conveys easygoing classic style more than jeans and a white button down shirt? A trendy scarf necklace is the perfect accent. Button down shirt by Z Supply, $74; jeans by Hidden, $89.
Shopping list: Romantic, timeless, feminine. This floral maxi dress by Fate, $84, is the perfect special occasion dress.
About the location
Live Oak 7874 Beulah Rd., Pensacola; 850-449-2100; liveoakplantation.com
Clothes compliments of Drift Boutique
960 E. Nine Mile Rd, # 5, Pensacola; 850-332-5126; driftboutique.shopsettings.com
Hair & makeup compliments of Nikki Hounshell
Adore You Salon
2750 E. Olive Rd., Pensacola; 850-261-9595; adoreyousalon.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: Drift Boutique
Dolce Vita shoes, $139
BC Bags handbag, $38 enewton bracelets, between $38-$64 each
G Stella earrings, $19
G Stella necklace, $38
BC Bags handbag, $79
Silver bracelet $24
BC Bags handbag, $54
Dolce Vita shoes, $140
ALK Designs necklace, $95
Dolce Vita shoes, $100
CCOCCI shoes, $40
BG Stella bracelet, $24
Farrah B necklace, $34
G Stella earrings, $12
ISEA sunglasses, $28
BuDhaGirl bracelets, $120 for all six
G Stella earrings, $24
ALK Designs beaded rings, $24 each
BC Bags handbag, $52
G Stella earrings, $16
The magic of Mascara
Choices for all looks and budgets
Are all mascaras the same?
Definitely not. Most women have spent a lot of time and a lot of money to find a mascara for all the occasions life can deliver. There are more cosmetic lines today than one can possibly try. How lucky are we to have so many choices? There is a range of cost, but it isn’t always the most expensive mascara that is necessarily the best for you.
For a minimal makeup look, try a natural, lengthening mascara that will create subtle definition. When it’s time to go all out, a thicker formula with a brush to separate, coat and shape the lashes will be your go-to.
Sometimes having so many different mascaras to choose from can be a bit overwhelming. You may have to try a few to find the one that suits your lashes best. Once you find the one, two or three that work for you, a great mascara is always the perfect secret weapon to finish any makeup look. Hese are some faves.
Story and photos by Leslie Peck
NATURAL LASHES | Ilia Limitless Lash mascara, $29 (Ulta): Dualsided wand to lengthen, lift and separate lashes. This clean formula is great for sensitive eyes. Comes in two shades of black and brown.
volume and length to each individual lash. This mascara comes in three
formula wraps the lashes in a 360-degree tube to lengthen, define, lift and curl. It is smudge proof and can be worn stress free in water. Available in black and brown.
proof and budget friendly. The rich, black color goes on smooth without flaking and lasts all day in the water.
Houser Memorial & LeaP 2025 partner to build hope
Houser Memorial AME Church owned a vacant parsonage. The Leadership Pensacola Class of ‘25 was seeking a project. And families at risk of homelessness needed safe shelter. The trifecta merged beautifully into a home that is offering safe harbor as well as hope to Escambia families who are out of options.
“The project centered around an unused parsonage home owned by Houser Memorial. Rather than let it sit vacant, the church had the faith and vision to take the first step with us, generously offering the home as a potential space for families in need. That one decision became the foundation for something extraordinary,” explained Jennifer Lusher, former Family Promise executive director.
“The LeaP Class of 2025 took on the renovation as their class project — and their passion, commitment and drive brought it to life in ways we could never have imagined. They raised over $101,000 to completely renovate the home, turning it from an empty structure into a warm, welcoming space for families experiencing housing instability. With generous support from community partners like Lowes and Ashley Outlet Pensacola, the house was fully furnished and transformed into a true home,” Lusher said, adding thanks to the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring Leadership Pensacola and to PenAir for contributing to the transformation.
It’s a win for families on the brink of homelessness as well as for LeaP and Houser members basking in the glow of strengthening the town they call home.
“This project is a testament to the power of community — and a reminder that solving homelessness isn’t something one organization can do alone. It takes all of us, working side by side, to lift families out of crisis and into a future filled with hope.”
causes
A promise to Escambia families
Organization aims to stop homelessness before it starts
By Allison McCrory
Photos by Kate Treick Photography
As a single mother of three who had been evicted twice, Jen reached out in 2023 to Family Promise of Escambia County, an organization focused on preventing homelessness.
Then-executive-director Jennifer Lusher immediately saw a passion in the young mom to not only survive but thrive.
“What stood out immediately was Jen’s determination. Despite everything, she hadn’t given up. She had a fire in her belly that pushed her forward — determined to build a stable life,” Lusher said. “At Family Promise, we met her where she was with compassion, resources and a plan.”
Jen and her children lived in Family Promise’s emergency shelter while staff and volunteers walked alongside her on a path toward stability.
Emergency shelters like the one where Jen’s family stayed are scattered throughout the community with eight area churches providing housing and meals in the evenings while a day center at First United Methodist Church provides internet access, showers and laundry facilities. Staff and volunteers at the day center connect families with financial resources and assist with job and housing searches.
“Jen worked incredibly hard, taking full advantage of our wrap-around services. She attended financial literacy classes, parenting support sessions and job readiness workshops — all while juggling the responsibilities of raising three children,” recalled Lusher.
She landed a remote job, earning a stable income while still being able to monitor her children. A benevolent landlord took a chance on her despite her dismal rental history.
“That one act of trust changed everything,” Lusher said.
With a safe, clean place to live and renewed hope, Jen took on extra work, built an emergency fund and now has her eyes set on home ownership.
“Her children are thriving in school and finally have a sense of normalcy,” Lusher explained.
PROVIDING A BUFFER FOR FAMILIES STRUGGLING TO STAY HOUSED
Escambia’s Family Promise chapter was founded in 2019 — one of 200 affiliates across the United States. In an economy where costs are increasing faster than wages, its services are needed now more than ever.
“For low-income families, even a small financial setback — such as an unexpected medical bill, car repair or reduced work hours — can push them into a housing crisis,” Lusher explained. “Affordable housing is increasingly scarce, and rental prices continue to climb, often outpacing what working families can realistically afford. This growing gap between income and basic expenses leaves many families just one step away from homelessness.”
Since launching, Escambia’s Family Promise has impacted nearly 600
people via emergency shelter, referrals to community resources, financial assistance, bridge housing and comprehensive wraparound care.
Lusher said the demand for emergency shelter and support services continues to grow, highlighting the urgent need for both immediate assistance and long-term solutions in our community. There are many more families like Jen’s whose lives hang in the balance between stability and instability.
“Jen’s story is more than a success — it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when resilience meets opportunity. Her journey reflects the very heart of Family Promise’s mission: that every family deserves a chance, and with the right support, they can write a new story for their future. Jen didn’t just find housing — she found hope, and she’s building a future her children can be proud of.”
ABOVE: Jennifer Lusher, former Family Promise executive director, shows off the house that Houser Memorial AME Church and Leadership Pensacola’s Class of 2025 created together. Now it’s a temporary refuge for families experiencing housing instability.
cover story
Going back to school is COOL
By Liz Biggs | Photos by Kate Treick Photography
Isn’t it crazy that at age 18, high school graduates are expected to know what they want to be when they grow up? Even though their prefrontal cortex, responsible for higher-level cognitive functions like planning, decision-making and impulse control, is generally considered to be fully developed around age 25, collegegoing teenagers register for first semester classes based on their declared major and critical tracking courses — prerequisites for the upper-level courses they will have to take. If they change their major and don’t graduate on time, they risk losing scholarship money and accruing excess hour surcharges. Is it any wonder that many people graduate with a degree and pursue a career that isn’t a good fit later in life? Or maybe college wasn’t the right path for you at age 18, but now you’re older and wiser and have discovered your passion.
The good news is, it’s never too late to go back to school! Don’t give up on your dream job just because you lack the qualifications. Here in Pensacola, we are lucky to have the University of West Florida. According to Katie Condon, assistant vice president of enrollment affairs, UWF is currently ranked #3 in the State University System for PerformanceBased Metrics (tied with FSU!), and #2 in the State University System for getting grads into the workforce or graduate/ professional school.
If you are hesitant or intimidated by the thought of continuing your education, Condon offers this advice: “Start small if you need to — maybe try just one class to get your feet wet. And
remember, universities have dedicated admissions teams ready to help you every step of the way. They’ll make the process as smooth as possible so you can focus on what really matters: your success!”
Condon said that at UWF, they are not just about traditional students.
“We’re all about meeting learners where they are. In fact, a big part of our community includes non-traditional learners, such as military veterans, active-duty service members and adults juggling work, life and school. UWF understands our non-traditional students face challenges that your typical college freshman might not, and we’re here to help! We prioritize financial aid transparency and support, working diligently to help students fully understand their financial aid packages and recognize the exceptional value of a UWF education,” Condon added.
CORTNEY’S STORY
Cortney Campus earned her AA and cosmetology degrees prior to moving to Pensacola from the Pacific Northwest/ Seattle area in 2001.
“I was paying my own way through college, and I saw the beauty industry
as potential for a nice stable income with relatively short certification period which would allow me to work my way through my degree,” she said.
As a stylist at 10th Avenue Hair Designs, due to her talent and creativity, she was booked solid.
“I honestly wasn’t expecting to become so popular as a hairstylist here so quickly, and I certainly wasn’t planning to run my own business, but Dale and Sheila Moore, the owners at 10th Avenue, had faith in me and mentored me into small business ownership,” Campus said. “As I got busier, I kept taking clients over going to class and finally decided to leave college to build and run my small business. At that time, I rationalized that I was making more money than many of my girlfriends with master’s degrees, so I decided I would go back later.”
After seven years at 10th Avenue Hair Designs, Campus opened her own salon, Style Downtown, in 2008.
“I saw a need for a cool, vibrant salon in downtown proper, where people could find consistency in education and quality as the mission and standard of the salon. Style Downtown was a great salon for many stylists to get their start, and I’m
very proud to have been one of the foundational bricks that helped build our dynamic downtown culture — it’s been really amazing to watch over the past 18 years we were open on Palafox.”
However, for many people, especially small business owners, the pandemic caused major life shifts. Campus downsized in 2020 and decided to add school to her schedule.
“As my daughter became more independent, I found myself home a lot. I was just ready for a big change, something completely new, especially after all the COVID isolation. Going back to school has been so fulfilling thus far; I love UWF,” she said.
Fast forward to 2025 when the building they leased for Style Downtown on Palafox finally sold after all those years, and Campus was faced with committing to a new owner and a new five-year lease.
“I was at a crossroads — the energy had shifted; my priorities had changed. Now that I’m a single mom and a full-time student, I decided to turn the page on Style Downtown and start writing the new chapters. I felt thrilled at the prospect of change, and I starting scouting out alternative salon spaces
right away,” Campus said.
Campus asked her hairstylist and former startup competitor, Hurst Butts, owner of Volume One Salon, if he had any rental opportunities, and he introduced her to The Studios.
“The space is beautiful, the amenities are luxurious, and the culture is energizing,” she said.
Her clients are thrilled with her new location downtown.
At UWF, Campus is seeking a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She has always been extremely creative and has loved art.
“I’m also a therapist and spiritual guide for my clients, so if I’m able to tie art to somehow helping others break down their own barriers, that would be very satisfying for me,” she said. “The learning curve for my online classes has been pretty tricky; we barely had the internet the last time I was in college and certainly didn’t have AI. I mostly have to do my regular life during the week including work, school, parenting and socializing, and then I pretty much spend the weekends doing my online class work.”
When asked what it’s like to be a college student later in life, Campus said it’s much easier this time around.
“I have so much more self-confidence with minimal second guessing myself. I was always too shy to ask questions as a youth and always wanted to blend in at any cost … this time around I’m utilizing every resource, and I’m not afraid to stand out anymore, which is perfect for the art world,” she said. “It’s not exhausting for me, it’s so exhilarating! I don’t mind the drive, I don’t mind the parking, I love my classes, the people, the school. I have my little work groups, it’s very social and productive. My art path is a spiritual journey, not a business model. I have no doubt I will be able to monetize my work as a professional artist in some fashion but I also have visions of helping to create a super dynamic art community and gallery scene downtown.”
For anyone feeling stuck, seeking a career change, or just wanting to further their education, hopefully Cortney’s story will be an inspiration. Her advice to anyone dreaming of a life pivot or a career change is to do what is best for your life — don’t let your age or your past get in the way of your future.
So, what are you waiting for? Going back to school is cool. And if you happen to be lucky enough to be 60-plus, UWF offers Leisure Learning and a tuition waver. Go ahead and take that class you’ve always wanted to take.
PELVIC FLOOR PHYSICAL
PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY & WELLNESS
Tips for going back to school
From Katie Condon, assistant vice president of enrollment affairs, University of West Florida
You can do it! Start small if you need to. Maybe try just one class to get your feet wet. And remember, universities have dedicated admissions teams ready to help you every step of the way. They’ll make the process as smooth as possible so you can focus on what really matters: your success!
Track down those transcripts. You’ll need your college and high school records (if applicable), so start gathering them early. Visit the school’s website to see exactly how to request them. trust me, it’ll save time later!
Do some program homework. Browse through college websites to find out what programs and certificates they offer. Make sure they have what you’re looking for, whether it’s a degree or just the right credentials to level up your skills.
Reach out and connect. When you’re ready to apply, give the admissions office a call or send an email to make an appointment. They’re there to help and can walk you through the process step by step.
UWF offers flexible degrees and professional certificates at an in-state tuition rate that hasn’t budged in over a decade. We’re dedicated to making education accessible and affordable. UWF has been diligent about increasing scholarships and strategically optimizing financial aid to reach as many students as possible. As a result, UWF’s average net tuition after aid for Florida residents has decreased by 45% over the past five years. That’s not just good news. it’s great ROI.
There is a tuition waiver for students not seeking a degree (audit the class, no grade) and are 60 years old or older. Find out more at uwf.edu/offices/registrar/ tuition--fees/senior-citizen-tuition-waiver/.
UWF’s Leisure Learning is also something for the local community. lots of neat programs. Students 60-plus can use the waiver for courses. Visit uwf.edu/ continuinged/programs/leisure-learning/
profile
Susan James
champions UWF’s rise from underdog to state leader through community collaboration
By Kelly MacLeod
Susan Densmore-James, PhD., literacy scholar in the School of Education, founder and director of the National Writing Project, president of Faculty Senate, and trustee of the Board of Directors for University of West Florida, says UWF has a magical formula for success: teamwork plus resilience.
“The collaborative efforts of our strong, supportive community, a top-notch administration, world-class faculty, and knowledgeable, professional staff have one single focus: our students,” James said.
Although the University of West Florida has always been a cornerstone of our community, in a short period of time, it now appears UWF is continually breaking records in student success, rankings and designations, as well as grants and research. A regional comprehensive university,
Photo by Kate Treick Photography
UWF is now ranked amongst the larger research institutions, tying for third place with Florida State University in the results of the state’s Performance-Based Metrics.
Continual news showcasing the university’s many successes has led to a high level of academic prestige, paired with what James says is a powerful athletics program run by Athletic Director Dave Scott. The growth is seen everywhere on the campus.
Not only has UWF risen to the top of the rankings, but the latest capital campaign entitled “Here for Good” has been the most successful in UWF’s history.
“Community members have been a large part of UWF’s success,” James said, “as donor gifts continue to ensure the university is conducting cuttingedge, innovative research and providing students with great opportunities outside the classroom. All of this leads to an impactful influence on our community and society.”
Since 2014, universities in Florida’s State University System have been awarded money based on performance versus the previous method of using enrollment numbers. These metrics,
which evaluate institutions on a range of criteria such as time to degree, graduation and retention rates, and median earnings of graduates, are used to allocate funds accordingly.
James spoke about her university with great pride, and it is immediately apparent that it is difficult to find a more passionate community member at UWF. She made the decision back in 2009 to leave her Pensacola home and teaching career of 17 years to attend Florida State University.
The reason?
She saw a great need for answers to literacy challenges in the schools and wanted to return to her hometown to train educators in practical, researchbased classroom supports for literacy development in both students and teachers. Daughter of Commander James (former Commanding Officer of Naval Education and Training Financial Information Processing Center) at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Susan James was tied to UWF at the age of 8 when her parents provided support for military personnel and their wives by mentoring and providing tours of the campus.
“My parents were first-generation
graduates, and they taught me the power of an education. Their belief in this led them to help others learn about what UWF had to offer. At that point, UWF was the size of a postage stamp. Being on this campus at this early age gave me a glimpse into my academic journey. I look at what has been achieved in the last decade at UWF, and I can’t help but beam with pride when sharing how our entire community built and nurtured this magical university.”
James has been on the faculty for 14 years, and shortly after arriving, she noticed a sudden shift in thinking.
“We were being nationally and internationally noticed for our work. Research for the sake of research is just that: research. Research for the good of the community is what makes us a world-class faculty,” she said. “Our strategic plan was written with all stakeholders involved; we hear what the community needs, and we work to make that happen.”
James said she has watched as so many of UWF’s programs flourish.
“Not only are we well-known for our Center for Cybersecurity, which works with the National Security Agency, but think about how our history and
archeology departments have had major finds that provide an accurate history of our beloved city,” she said. “One of the highest needs in Pensacola relates to mental health and a lack of resources; our psychology and social work programs are providing graduates who are ready to jump in and solve issues. Our departments focus on the real challenges in our community.”
This is what led to the start of the National Writing Project, a partnership she started with the two local school districts. She has trained nearly 250 educators in the theory of writing instruction and given them practical, engaging ideas for their students.
“When focused on the needs of others, top-notch research follows, and results are seen. I have been able to share my work across the nation and even at Oxford University. That is what it is all about: working together to make a difference.”
James remembers a time when UWF was near the bottom of the metrics.
“I can remember exactly where the faculty was assembled when we first talked about our rankings. It was a devastating blow because of the arduous work that had been done to be
successful without much movement to start. But, as all great leaders do, Dr. Saunders and then Provost George Ellenberg made the commitment to our entire community to focus our efforts and pull together to reach the top. Both rolled up their sleeves with faculty and staff and got to work.”
James said they all knew resilience and teamwork would be the answer. When the time came for Dr. Ellenberg to return to faculty and his passion for teaching, UWF was lucky to have another great provost, Dr. Jaromy Kuhl, step in and give their process the benefit of the Predictive Analytics and Modeling Lab, a tool that James said has been coveted and sought after by many other institutes of higher education.
“The need for this lab was a gamechanger for us, as we were able to use data to act and help all students. We now have a dashboard that enables us to harness all data to help our advisors, faculty, administration and staff best assist all students. The results are obvious.”
James also makes note of the climate on campus.
“Our faculty is a family,” she
said. “We come to the table from various backgrounds with different experiences and viewpoints, and we listen to all ideas to find the best solutions. When asked for my picture for this piece, I knew I wanted to stand in front of our new mural. This lovely piece of art, created by alumni Eniko Ujj (class of 2013), symbolizes resilience. We demonstrated through the difficult times that we will not be beaten, we have risen to the top of the performance-based metrics, our athletes not only have won multiple national championships, but even more importantly, they are truly scholarathletes and display that Argo spirit in all that they do.”
James sums it up as this: “Here we stand as a top university in our state — stronger than ever. I love the new mural, and this latest capital campaign, “Here for Good,” is my favorite campaign during my tenure at UWF. The teacher in me sees the homophone pair of the words ‘hear’ and ‘here’ and knows this is fitting. Resilience and teamwork have gotten us this far, and truly listening and partnering with our community is what drives our success and makes us truly unique.”
Sonshine
A POWERFUL VOICE & A HEART FOR CHANGE
By Magi Thomley Williams
by Kate Treick Photography
Sonshine, in addition to being a writer for Bella, is a TV host, sales executive and public relations representative for BLAB TV, WPAN. She recently sat down with Bella to talk about her journey.
Q: Tell us about the journey that brought you to WPAN.
A: Oh, wow. What a journey! I had been in radio for 38 years. That’s a long time, but corporate radio is changing, and that gave me an opportunity. I had an urge to do TV. So, after a transition between me and corporate radio, I made a call to WPAN. We came up with the idea of doing something different. I’ve been here hosting Sonshine’s Corner ever since.
Q: Tell us about Sonshine’s Corner.
A: Sonshine’s Corner is a community-focused, local talk show that can be seen nationwide. I’m that voice for the community, the things that need to be talked about locally, that nobody else is talking about. You can have an uncomfortable conversation with me and feel comfortable doing it, getting knowledge out to the community that’s going to better the community. I believe that knowledge is power. If you talk about anything, put your ideas, my ideas together, we’ll come up with a great solution. That’s the foundation of the show — to talk about things that we need to talk about — things that affect us all, not just one segment of our community. We all have differences in opinions, but once we come up with a great conclusion, we’re all on the same path. We have the same process of thinking, but we need to have the ability to combine our thoughts to make things better for everybody. And that’s what Sonshine’s Corner does because we hit every corner of the city.
Q: Who are some mentors that helped you to get to this place of success?
A: I’ll go back to Cal Thornton. Rest his soul. I met him in the late ’80s. He always told me, “You’ve got talent, but you create these boxes when you see things that need to be changed. Instead of allowing your vines to go out, you climb up.”
He said, “What I want to teach you to do is whenever you have that box that you want to climb into, allow that to be your voice. When you allow that to be your voice, you’re going to see a lot of people hear and see the same way you do.”
He always taught me to never put on airs, just be me and watch success grow.
Q: What’s your most proud accomplishment?
A: My most proud accomplishments are my son, Brandon, and my daughter, Lutresia. Those two are the light of my life. But career-wise, I never thought I would leave a small town in the country outside of Montgomery, Alabama, to venture so many places, and to become as successful as I have become here on the Gulf Coast. I cannot thank God enough for allowing me to make a difference like I have. Never did I think of being successful in TV.
Q: What do you want our readers to know?
A: I want readers to know that I am a woman that has a strong heart, a woman that believes in fighting for what’s right, a woman that wants to give all I can to make a difference right here where I am. I want the difference to be at home. Watch what I do. That’s going to show you who I am. The community is my heart. Being a part of a women’s magazine, I want women to really be able to uplift each other, because we have so much to offer. And I think if we’re on the same plane, the sky’s the limit. That’s me in a nutshell: a woman who loves the Lord, a woman who will give her heart to make a difference.
Photo
pro tips
Swing into cool
Golf tips from UWF coach Kristen Dorsey for women getting started in the game
By Cynthia Reeves | Photos by Kate Treick Photography
The game of golf has been a passion for Kristen Dorsey since she was six years old. She is currently the head women’s golf coach at the University of West Florida, so she is going on thirty years of playing, coaching and serving as an advocate for the sport in Northwest Florida.
Kristen was hired at UWF in July 2019. The team has broken many records in those six years
“We consistently rank top 25 in the nation. This year we are finishing 23rd,” she said.
Seeing her team of six to ten girls excel is just a part of her drive. The ultimate fulfillment is watching the game grow for women of all ages. It is rewarding to be a local symbol for the sport and to be able to give back to the community.
“It’s so much fun being able to connect with people and either share information or just share excitement about possibly getting into the game of golf.” Dorsey said. “The game of golf
has opened so many doors for me and it’s something I want to give back, to help people create good memories with the sport.”
GETTING STARTED
Women frequently ask Dorsey how to get started playing golf. She loves the question because although the game might seem intimating to a beginner, she wants golf to be approachable. She gauges her advice depending on whether the person has a little experience or has never picked up a club.
The first step for a brand-new player is quality lessons. Dorsey’s advice: Simply go to the golf course closest to you, talk to the local golf pro, and take lessons. Once you’ve had a few lessons, be on the lookout for a local golf course that offers women’s golf clinics and leagues. She says there is no shortage.
“And I encourage them to bring a friend. It’s always fun to do it with a buddy or a group thing with a buddy.”
Yelp.com lists the top ten local golf instruction courses in the Pensacola area and includes reviews. Dorsey says there are even fun events for teams such as Ladies 9 & Wine events. For example, Lost Key advertises one every Monday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. followed by a nine-hole scramble and beverages.
“All of the local women’s golf associations that I have met with/talked to/been involved with are very welcoming to newcomers,” Dorsey said. “In fact, they’re so excited to be able to have a newcomer join their league because they want to grow the game with more people.”
She acknowledges one of the coolest things about golf is the handicap. She is a scratch golfer (she shoots under par), but she can play and have fun with somebody that shoots 20 over par because of the handicap system. There is a rule book that makes it level and fair.
“That can be a big confidence booster,” she said.
KRISTEN DORSEY’S PRO TIPS
• Invest in lessons
• Practice chipping and putting
• Work on your grip
• Join women’s leagues
• Stay hydrated
GOOD EXERCISE AND MENTALLY CHALLENGING
Dorsey believes golf is good exercise for all ages as well as a great way to develop friendships,
“You’re sharing two hours for nine holes; four hours together for 18 holes. You have the option of walking or riding so you can make it as much exercise as you want.”
She points out that golf keeps your body in motion.
“You are constantly swinging; you’re constantly rotating. You keep your mind sharp like you are figuring out strategies. You know, some people do the New York Times puzzle every morning to keep their brains sharp. Golf stimulates the brain too,” she said. “You are having to be like, ‘What club should I hit with my yardage? What’s the wind? How should I play this hole?’ so you’re fully engaged.”
GOLF GEARED FOR WOMEN
Dorsey sees more and more that golf is becoming a game for all genders and ages rather than just a man’s game as in the past. She says the United States Golf Association is making a big push right now to changing protocol for tee boxes where players hit their drives. Typically, men hit from the white tees and women the red, but Dorsey says now it is becoming more common for people to play from either based on their handicap.
“And now they’re getting away from that, they’re putting different colors on tee boxes like purple and orange.”
She believes golf is now more welcoming to women.
“Anybody can play now.”
Dorsey said she even sees the difference in pro shop merchandise now. Clothes and equipment were once largely geared toward men, but now it is more 50/50.
“You know all these really cool, trendy golf brands that are on Instagram and on social media? They now have women’s lines. I would say the women’s clothing has doubled in the past 10 years.”
That encourages Dorsey because it is more evidence that more women are becoming involved in golf. So take the advice of a lover of the game and just call a pro shop and get started.
FRIDAY LUNCH
EVERY FRIDAY FROM 11:00 AM TO 2:00 PM
From discovery to dynasty local fare
By Lisa Player | Photos by Kate Treick Photography
“I did not set out to write my family’s story. Rather, the story found me.”
Christine Broderick Emmanuel said the inspiration for her new book, “The Westcott Story: The Enduring Spirit of an American Family Spanning 400 Years,” came from out of the blue. A distant relative called her during the COVID pandemic in 2020, seeking a home for the family’s ancestral records.
“Within weeks of that phone call,” Emmanuel said, “four overflowing boxes landed on my doorstep — a genealogical mother lode that set in motion my writing/publication journey.”
She dove in right away, finding out that family members had already published four books about relatives, dating from between 1886 and 1991. She also found a pedigree chart, “which became my roadmap for tracing my 22-generation lineage.”
Emmanuel spent the next four and a half years combing through newspaper clippings, scrap books, letters and more, reaching out to living family members for information, and searching the internet to fill out the story, which weaves together British, French and American history and important people going back to the 1600s.
“Little did I know that I am related to King Richard of England; Anne, the Duchess of York; Sir Walter Raleigh through my 11-times great-grandfather Sir Lewis Stukely; the biblical scholar Clement Clarke Moore who penned “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” for his children in 1823; and the illustrious Fish family from New York who established a political dynasty, as examples,” she said.
The surprises didn’t stop there. Emmanuel found a relative who was on the boat with George Washington in the famous painting by Leutze of Washington Crossing the Delaware. And she even found connections closer to home.
“Until I began researching my family’s story, I did not know that I am related to James Diament Westcott III, the youngest jurist ever to serve on the Florida Supreme Court, whose name graces the iconic administration building at Florida State University, where I earned an MBA in 1983,” she said.
Emmanuel identified most with the family traits that seem to have made their way across generations. She loved learning about her predecessors’ industriousness and ambition, as well
as finding out that many were also writers, traits she sees today among her eight siblings and their children.
The ancestor she is inspired by the most, though, is Marie de la Warenbuer Ferree. She and her family, French Protestants, fled from France to Germany to escape horrific persecution.
“Losing the Ferree family home, in exile, Marie was left to fend for herself with six children upon Daniel’s death,” Emmanuel said. “She mustered remarkable courage to lead her family to London, where she sought out William Penn, who gave her an audience with Queen Anne. Marie gained entry to America for herself and her family in 1708 with the 2,000 acres William Penn granted her with the queen’s blessing. Referred to as ‘Madame Ferree,’ my resolute eight-times great-grandmother remains venerated in the Pennsylvania town where she settled outside of Philadelphia in ‘Paradise,’ Lancaster County.”
Emmanuel describes her research and the ensuing twovolume, self-published family history as a “passion project” that consumed her, day and night. She credits advice and help from several friends and experts who helped her bring it to life, including Tom Roberts, founder of Raven Cliffs Publishing and former Emerald Coast Writers president, and Mamie Hixon, UWF English professor and writing lab director.
As she continues to promote “The Westcott Story” and its historical significance, Emmanuel hopes to find a screenwriter with an eye toward turning it into a docuseries.
“Imagine 14 seasons following the Westcotts and kin from England, France and Germany as they colonize a new world, build a nation and gradually raise it to become a world power. From immigration to colonization, from armed conflict to industrialization and artistic expression, the enthralling stories will embody the spirit and value of cultural icons in every phase of our nation’s history,” she said.
And for others who want to follow her lead in exploring their own family histories, Emmanuel stresses the importance of asking questions of senior and contemporary relatives before it’s too late and the stories are lost. She also suggests having “accountability partners” to help keep your work on track.
“History is all about the stories. It’s up to each of us to document them as a legacy honoring our ancestors who sacrificed so much for us.”
Christine Broderick Emmanuel turned family records into a multi-generational American saga
local fare
Cool off with Coastal Chill
By Cynthia Reeves
by Kate Treick Photography
Asign at the counter reads: “Ice Cream — because no great love story started with salad!”
Heather Bennett, owner of Coastal Chill Company, says that message is apropos because her business is all about spreading a little love.
“I’m proud of what we’re doing here. We try to take a dessert everyone loves and make it better for us,” she said.
Bennett opened the little ice cream shop with fresh churned ice cream, Italian ice, chillers and shakes about a year and a half ago. The business started as a mobile food truck, but soon Heather found a brickand-mortar location at the Neighborhood Walmart Shopping Center in Gulf Breeze to offer families a place to relax and refresh.
She runs the operation. Her husband, Jason, makes the ice cream.
“He’s the mastermind behind the ice cream!”
Heather explains that all ice cream is made in house, churning it in the back in a batch freezer. They use 16% clean label dairy to set Coastal Chill apart.
“There are six ingredients in it. No preservatives, and we can pronounce them
all,” she said. “The products come straight from the farm and are not previously frozen.”
Bennett tries to use all natural ingredients to color the ice cream as well. All the Italian Ice is gluten and dairy free. Most of the ice dishes are dye free with no artificial colors, flavors or corn syrup. Her goal is quality.
Mike and Brooke Ward and their family drive over from Pace to Gulf Breeze regularly because they appreciate that “the staff goes the extra mile” to serve good and delicious treats.
“Today’s my birthday!” Brooke Ward exclaimed. “But I don’t want cake; I want Coastal Chill.”
She recommends trying the homemade waffle cones and bowls.
“Everything is wonderful. You can tell it’s fresh,” she said.
While she digs into her banana pudding ice cream, her family plays one of the little table games Bennett has provided around the shop.
They are old-fashioned games like checkers, Connect Four, ring toss and tictac-toe. Brooke Ward loves that her kids are engaged. A visit to the ice cream shop is good family time.
“No one is looking at their phones here,” she said.
WANT TO GO?
• What: Coastal Chill Company
• Where: 314 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze
• When: 12-8 p.m. (open until 8:30 p.m. in the summer), seven days a week
• Info: 850-860-1092; Facebook/coastalchillco
Photos
That’s just how Bennett wants it.
“I truly want people to connect with each other,” she said, adding that it is “refreshing to see people come in and play and make memories.”
In the summer, tourists are typical customers, but once school starts, the staff is happy to serve local kids after school. Bennett believes is a safe place with coffee shop vibes.
Coastal Chill serves a rotating menu that typically involves ten staple flavors of ice cream and Italian ice. New menus are posted on Facebook and Instagram on Mondays. Italian ice comes in flavors like lemon, blue raspberry and pineapple.
Chillers are a light and refreshing drink to sip on. They are comparable to frozen lemonade. Bennett suggests sampling the Mojito Twist, which is a tangy, tart delight. Ice cream is the biggest seller with cookies and cream, cookie monster and banana pudding being the hottest of the cool desserts.
Bennett beams when she says, “It’s hard to walk away from the ice cream because it’s that good.”
The Ward family says Coastal Chill is simply their happy place. Bennett, who claims “joy” as her word, is happy to share that feeling.
body & soul
The silent signals What every woman should know about gynecologic cancers
Every September, the colors teal and purple quietly emerge as symbols of strength, survival and sisterhood. But the lack of awareness surrounding Ovarian and Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is something we should not overlook or ignore. There could be pain that lingers, fatigue that doesn’t make sense or a sense that something just isn’t right. What’s often brushed off as things that we consider “normal,” hormonal or stress-related can sometimes be the first sign of something more serious. It is time to sound the alarm and for advocacy to rise.
By Justine Roper, PT, DPT | Illustration by Getty Images
Dr. Erika Schneider, a local OB-GYN and warrior for women’s health, thinks facts surrounding ovarian and gynecological cancer awareness are too essential not to share. Her honesty, clarity and dedication to women’s health are things to admire and value. No matter your background, this conversation is for you.
THE DOCTOR IN THE DELIVERY ROOM AND BEYOND
Schneider’s story is rooted right here in Florida. She completed her undergraduate studies, medical school, and residency all at the University of Florida.
“After residency, with our first daughter still an infant, we moved to Pensacola,” she said. “It’s been a wonderful place to raise our now three girls.”
She has spent her career walking alongside women going through some of the most vulnerable and sacred seasons of life, including pregnancy, menopause and, unfortunately, cancer, which she has fought herself with both grace and resilience.
WHY THIS MONTH MATTERS
It’s a misconception, of course: Gynecologic cancer awareness doesn’t start and stop with breast cancer. And yet, while breast cancer often receives the most attention, all gynecologic cancers, from uterine to cervical, vulvar, vaginal and ovarian, affect thousands upon thousands of women a year. It is a way to bring together and recognize the full range of these diseases during September. They’re easy to miss because we screen for them infrequently, yet early detection is lifesaving.
Truly, the statistics are sobering. Every year, more than 94,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with gynecologic cancer, the CDC says. Early detection is not only critical; it’s lifesaving.
LISTENING TO THE QUIET SYMPTOMS & KNOWING YOUR RISK
When I work with women in my own pelvic health clinic, one of the most frequent things I hear is, “I thought it was just bloating,” or, “I figured the bleeding was from stress.”
Schneider echoed the same concern.
“Symptoms can be slight, subtle and even occasional,” she said. “Bloating, pelvic pain or pressure, unusual bleeding, especially after menopause, changes in bowel or bladder habits or feeling full quickly when eating.”
If you feel off, it’s not something to ignore. It’s a signal.
One of the most powerful tools we have is knowledge of our family medical history.
“BRCA mutations are well known for increasing breast and ovarian cancer risk,” Schneider explained. “But Lynch syndrome is another one we watch for in uterine and colon cancers.”
Other red flags include age, obesity, never having been pregnant and smoking. Schneider has a balanced view.
“Healthy habits help,” she said, “but they are not a shield. Many women who develop gynecologic cancers have lived very healthy lives. We should never blame ourselves.”
This reminder is important: health doesn’t always prevent illness.
Unlike mammograms for breast cancer, there’s no reliable,
Where
routine test to screen for ovarian cancer.
“It’s one of our biggest challenges,” Schneider said. “We rely on symptom awareness, family history and in some high-risk cases, pelvic imaging or bloodwork.”
That’s why annual OB-GYN visits are critical. These appointments are not just for Pap smears or birth control updates. They are valuable moments to notice what’s changed.
And those conversations should start earlier than most people think. Starting in your 20s or 30s, it’s a good idea to have general conversations, especially if there’s a family history. Schneider advises that by your 40s and beyond, these discussions should become more specific. Annual visits with your OB-GYN are essential and they provide opportunities to spot changes early and keep the conversation going.
THE HOPE WE HOLD
“Genetic testing is now much more widely available, so we have the ability to identify high risk women at an earlier stage and offer them more surveillance or even preventative surgery,” Schneider said.
Targeted therapies and minimally invasive procedures have helped, too.
YOUR BODY KNOWS. TRUST IT.
“You are the expert of your own experience,” Schneider said. “If a provider dismisses your concerns, get a second opinion. Keep pushing until someone listens.”
Pause and allow that to sit for a moment.
You do not need permission to speak up. What you need is access, information and someone willing to listen.
Dr. Erika Schneider, OB-GYN, stresses the importance of not ignoring any unusual pelvic symptoms, as they may be telling you something. Regular conversations with your doctor are critical for identifying potential red flags. Photo by Toni Sparks / Short Story Studios
local fare
Hot mess, cool solutions
This month, Bella asked readers to share their best tips for staying cool (both mentally and physically) during the changes that come with perimenopause and menopause. While hormone replacement therapy may be right for some women, there are other things to help make it through this change as well. If you want to share, too, join the conversation at Facebook/pensacolabella or Instagram/pensacolabella.
There are multiple medical modalities to help women through the midlife transition. Hormone replacement is just one option in a whole host of medications and therapies for symptom mitigation. What I can tell you is that you should not have to suffer with your symptoms!
— Dr. Julie Zemaitis DeCesare, HCA Florida West Women’s Health OB-GYN
HRT has been a game-changer for me! Hot flashes stopped, and I am actually sleeping again! Also, I do have one menopausal beauty secret for softer skin. After 50, I noticed that my daily moisturizer didn’t last all day, and my legs would start to look dry by the afternoon. I started exfoliating in the shower every day, and as soon as I turn off the water, I spread a light layer of Hawaiian Tropic dark tanning oil on my exfoliated skin while it’s still wet. Pat it dry with a towel so it doesn’t stain your clothes, and your skin stays moisturized all day long. I haven’t used a regular moisturizer in years. — Kim Kline
Fans here, there, everywhere. Next to the bed, in the kitchen, at my desk. — Laura Clark
Ice packs, ice packs, ice packs! I started perimenopause at about 39 and was finished by 42. Also, herbal teas, both warm and cold helped me. — Tania Tate
HRT is a lifesaver. Not just for the symptoms, but for a healthier life. There are so many protective benefits in addition to alleviating the frustrating symptoms. I would also add that although everyone recognizes hot flashes as a symptom, there are other lesserknown symptoms, and it’s important to be educated on those as well. One example is heart palpitations/anxiety-type symptoms. These are often misdiagnosed, resulting in women being prescribed anxiety medication in error. So I would say, managing menopause symptoms starts with finding the RIGHT doctor. — Teresa Helms
Always carry a handheld fan, just like an old-time Southern belle. — Seabrook Marketing
— Compiled by Lisa Player; Illustration by Getty Images
TURN DOWN THE HEAT: MENOPAUSE COOLING TIPS THAT WORK
By Justine Roper, PT, DPT
Many women entering their 40s and 50s are also attempting to negotiate the simmering reality of menopause. From hot flashes to night sweats, it can seem as if staying comfortable is a 24/7 job. Check out these tips to stay cool, calm and collected.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate early: Hot flashes can be draining and take away many of the nutrients you need to keep cool and to keep going. If you’re perspiring frequently, of course drink your water, but also consider adding in electrolytes throughout the day. Pick a flavor that will make your taste buds happy!
• Dress in layers: Natural fibers like cotton or bamboo are great options to keep you cool. Layering is key in being able to remove layers quickly when heat arises.
• Get the benefit of a cold pillow or blanket: Cooling bedding can help with night sweats and staying comfy during much needed sleep.
• Limit triggers: Symptoms can be aggravated by spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol and stress. Pay attention and make the appropriate adjustments.
• Move more, not less: This might sound off, but being active can bring down both the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. It also can enhance your mood and sleep.
• Try deep breathing or meditation: Diaphragmatic breathing, stretching, meditation and yoga have been found to be helpful for those in perimenopause and menopause. Grab a seat or mat and relax, even if for a few minutes. YouTube videos are also useful when learning various forms of deep breathing.
• Discuss hormone therapy options with your provider: This is not for everyone, but for many, hormone treatment does offer relief. Be sure to discuss the various risks and benefits with your medical provider.
• Keep a fan nearby: Desk fan, purse fan, car fan. Get a fan that travels. They may be small, but they pack a punch, with instant relief when you need it.
worth the trip Cooking class and Delta bliss
The Alluvian Hotel, Spa and Viking Cooking School
Several Septembers ago, my friends and I decided to find a fun couples’ getaway for the weekend. What could four couples do for a three-day weekend in September that we hadn’t already done?
My friend, Kim Kline, found something we’d never heard of. Greenwood, Mississippi, is home to the Viking Range company, and the Viking Cooking School is there. Across the street from the cooking school is the Alluvian Hotel, renovated by Viking from the historic Hotel Irving building, and Giardina’s restaurant and bar is within the hotel. Other draws on the same block are the Alluvian Spa and Studio A Yoga.
We all love taking turns hosting each other and cooking at our houses, so taking a class at the Viking Cooking School was a fun idea for everyone. The Klines (Kim and Eric), Ueberschaers (Wei and Tom), Werners (Michele and Mike) and Players (me and my husband, Shane) booked two nights at the hotel, a cooking class, dinner at Giardina’s and yoga and spa treatments for the weekend.
ABOVE AND BOTTOM LEFT: Giardina’s Bar and Restaurant are within the Alluvian Hotel and exude old-school charm. MIDDLE: Greenwood, Mississippi, is at the heart of Delta history, including the Mississippi Blues Trail. BOTTOM RIGHT: The hotel has gorgeous art throughout, and the renovation is in keeping with the building’s history.
Story and photos by Lisa Player Other photos provided by the Alluvian Hotel
TOP: The Alluvia Spa is just across the street from the hotel in downtown Greenwood. BOTTOM: The Viking Cooking School was the highlight of the trip.
To get there, we split up. The men flew with pilot Eric Kline on his plane (Southeast Air Shuttle), and the women drove so we could lunch, shop and chat on the way. Greenwood is an easy 6-hour drive from Pensacola, with stops in Laurel or Jackson on the way if you’re interested. We drove up on a Friday and arrived in time to check in and relax before our cooking class Friday evening.
The Alluvian Hotel sits in the alluvial plain of the Mississippi Delta, and, with more time, I would have loved to explore the area more, especially the history to be found on the Mississippi Blues Trail and at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta. The hotel itself was outstanding with friendly staff, and the designers did a good job of keeping a historic feel while offering modern rooms and amenities. Our room was large with a comfortable bed and a separate seating area.
The cooking class on Friday evening was a hoot! The instructors were fun and knowledgeable, and the other groups in the class were quite tolerant of our laughter as we tried the new techniques. We enjoyed bottles of wine throughout the cooking experience. Our menu was delectable:
• Brie en Brioche, which we didn’t make
ourselves but enjoyed before we began cooking, is a delectable brie encasing a mushroom, shallot and sun-dried tomato filling, wrapped in a homemade brioche.
• Tournedos of Beef with Champagne Sauce, which we seared on the stove and finished in the oven.
• Roasted Asparagus
• Dauphinoise Potatoes, a classic potato gratin with paper-thin potatoes, parmesan and cream.
• Tuile Cups (thin cookie cups with orange zest and finely ground almonds) served with ice cream and fruit. We made the cups ourselves, and we all had fun trying clumsily to form our hot, melty tuiles over the backsides of muffin cups. The ones that broke apart were still delicious!
Even those of us who pride ourselves on being expert cooks learned new things, and we all had a lot of fun in the process. After cooking, we sat down to enjoy our dishes. We each received an apron and a packet of our recipes to take home. Finally, we filtered out through the attached kitchen shop to peruse a wide range of gadgets, including some we had used in our class. We all bought the
same garlic press (still amazing — I use it all the time) and our all-time favorite FinaMill salt/pepper grinder.
On Saturday, we explored downtown Greenwood before our scheduled spa and yoga sessions. Right on Howard Street near the hotel were fun boutiques and gift shops (with lots of Mississippi college gear if you’re so inclined), a great art gallery/shop, and a nice wine shop with free tastings (Cru Fine Wine & Spirits).
The Alluvian Spa was wonderful, and we all enjoyed different treatments, including a couple’s massage, facial and pedicures. My husband had his first-ever pedicure there, and he is now a convert. A few of us also did a yoga class at Studio A Yoga, which was top-notch.
After a day of meandering and pampering, we had reservations at Giardina’s restaurant in one of their private rooms. (They also have an open-seating section.) The service was outstanding, and the menu had something to please each of us: steaks, pastas and seafood dishes. Both the restaurant and bar were pleasantly lively and fun.
On Sunday, we all made our way back home, sufficiently stuffed and relaxed after a fun weekend away.
Story and photos by Cynthia Reeves
Recently, I watched the movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” and realized there was a lot of history and mystery to Savannah, Georgia, that had escaped me on my first and only visit about ten years ago.
At that time, I accompanied my daughter and her Girl Scout troop to see the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. This time I was on one of my solo traveler expeditions to experience the food, culture and history — not through the eyes of a mom, but as an intrepid traveler.
The Mercer Williams House is a beauty featuring heavy iron gates and balconies. There are a multitude of ways to see historic houses, from classic cars to horse-drawn carriages.
It looks like one of a kind, but the fountain at Forsyth Park was ordered from a catalog. Touring by bike is a perfect way to get close to the moss-filled live oaks lining the town squares.
HISTORY
My first view of the city was atop a bicycle. My tour guide, Will Reyes, of Savannah Bike Tours was outstanding and managed to keep my attention on the history and off the traffic or my wobbly bike-riding skills. We meandered through many of Savannah’s 22 stunning squares. We pedaled through lush landscapes and majestic live oaks with Spanish moss gently swaying above us.
I learned that British explorer and humanitarian James Oglethorpe founded the city in 1733 as a haven for the poor and persecuted. Savannah was the capital of the last of the original thirteen American colonies, Georgia.
It is amazing and admirable that city leaders have managed over the decades to preserve so many of the green spaces and historical landmarks. Pedaling past the fountains, gardens and stately homes was like riding through a storybook full of ghosts of the past come alive.
Reyes explained that part of what saved Savannah from destruction was that the city was given as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln during the Civil War. General Sherman marched through the city to the sea in 1864 but was persuaded not to burn the city down.
The preservation of the colonial and Victorian homes is a great source of pride in Savannah. Our bikes glided down Bull Street where we pulled up to the Mercer Williams House, which is an iconic structure housing part of Savannah’s dark past. Though it was built for the family of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer, it was later occupied by historic home preservationist Jim Williams, the subject of the New York Times best seller “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”
That book was published in 1994, and suddenly Savannah became a huge tourism destination. It seemed everyone wanted to learn about its past, see the macabre cemeteries, walk through the haunted houses and sample Southernstyle cocktails.
My solo trek to the celebrated city was partially guided by Shannon Ryck, the owner of the Fearless and Fabulous Over 40 Travel Group. We stayed at an inn in the historical district. The majestic McMillan House was built in 1888 and set the stage for a memorable weekend of Southern-style charm.
SIGHTSEEING
The highlight of Ryck’s itinerary was
touring the city in classic chauffeur-driven Bentleys dressed in 1920s flapper girl costumes. What a hoot! Sherri and Bill Anderson of Callan’s Classics gave me a different perspective of the cultured city, making me feel as if I had stepped back in time.
There seem to be as many trolley cars, tour buses and other modes of transportation around Savannah as there are strings of moss hanging from the trees. There is the Ghost Town Trolley, Land and Sea Combo Sightseeing, “Dead of the Night” walking tours and culinary food tours, but I appreciated the Bonaventure Cemetery Tour. The brochure touts it as “where death and beauty meet.” The cemetery seems to capture the pulse of the city’s past.
The tour guide made the old tombstones, sculptures and crypts come alive as he told secrets and stories of the people who helped shape Savannah’s history.
“Its breathtaking beauty possesses people, for sure,” he said.
In case being “possessed” by the ghosts of the past is a bit too dark an adventure, you can do as we did and follow that excursion up with a comedy tour. We boarded the “Savannah for Morons”
Service at The Olde Pink House Restaurant and Tavern is top-notch and features authentic Southern recipes. Make reservations early.
Tour that promised to be “as informative was it is funny.” I laughed out loud the entire bus ride. Of course, I had a much more informative experience on the bike tour, but this was a clever, relaxing and entertaining respite from anything serious or heavy.
FOOD AND COCKTAILS
As part of the comedy tour, we stopped at one of Savannah’s Irish pubs. There is no shortage of Irish Pubs and restaurants because although originally established as an English colony, Irish immigrants arrived in large numbers during the1830s and ’40s.
The Wexford Irish style pub at City Market had excellent food and service. The Wexford Old Fashioned with chocolate bitters, strawberry simple syrup and smoked-chocolate-infused tobacco was a decadent delight.
One of the best restaurants I sampled as part of my Fearless, Fabulous experience was The Old Pink House. The setting was like sitting in your old aunt’s elegant parlor. Add to the ambiance with a Pink Lady Cocktail. Lunch featured luscious salads and fresh fish dishes, but I settled on a simple
“My final thought was that Savannah is truly the Hostess City of The South it proclaims to be — charming and seductive — cultured, yet spirited and lively. Don’t miss an opportunity to ride though the bricked and cobblestoned streets and get caught up in its spell.” — Cynthia Reeves
arugula salad topped with grilled salmon and drizzled with a mustard bacon dressing that was so good I could swim in it. I also highly recommend starting with the fried green tomatoes with applewood smoked bacon and sweet corn cream. Yep, I love some bacon. Don’t judge!
Another must-try restaurant for lovers of anything pink is Noble Fare. Their website best describes the setting: “The interior is black & white with fuchsia draperies, dazzling crystal chandeliers and a cozy ambiance of its 1879 roots.” Lovely. The special the night I dined was pan-fired grouper. Divine.
The Prohibition Museum is a must-see for history buffs, but a cocktail-making class in the museum is also incredible
fun. How ironic. Mixing drinks in a prohibition museum in the shadows of wax figures of Al Capone and Bugs Moran. We sampled everything from Chatham Artillery punch (as featured in the movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”) to a classic lime daiquiri.
After the class, we breezed through the city at night on Rickshaw Pedicabs which is another fabulous way to navigate the city and catch a cool breeze. My final thought was that Savannah is truly the Hostess City of The South it proclaims to be — charming and seductive — cultured, yet spirited and lively. Don’t miss an opportunity to ride though the bricked and cobblestoned streets and get caught up in its spell.
By Sharla Gorder
Confessions of a serial trend follower her perspective
I had very large hair.
And massive, Atlas-Shrugged-sized shoulders. And platform shoes you could land a fighter jet on.
Of course I didn’t sport all these fashion trends at once. But through the decades, I’ve jumped on every faddish bandwagon that rolled my way.
For better … and for worse.
The ’70s are still my favorite, and to this day, I retain fashion flourishes from that colorful era. I still have a pair of Liberty Bell inspired jeans in my closet. And a bright flower power maxi dress. And a crocheted halter top that I haven’t worn since I was 13.
By the time the ’80s rolled around, I was officially a grown-up-working-woman and obliged to wear a uniform for the first time in my life. But even that was trendy. Renowned fashion mogul Adolfo designed the Pan Am flight attendant uniform — with those vast white collars that could knock me out in strong wind and a jaunty neck scarf cinched tight around my windpipe. I added some Linda Evans inspired shoulder pads to the ensemble to make my size four hips look smaller and permed hair look bigger.
Britney and Christina were really the only ones who could rock this look, but many tried.
Not me. I sat this one out and waited for the pendulum to swing. By 2007 I was raiding my great aunt Mickey’s closet for velour. Track suits were all the rage.
The 2010s ushered in a fashion trend that was both practical and flattering for me. Finally! The rise of “ath-leisure” couture allowed me to wear my “work clothes” (I was a fitness trainer) everywhere. Lululemon, Athleta and Vuori were the posh places to shop the trend; but Target, Bealls and even Walmart could fill in in a pinch. I still own a pair of shimmery butterfly leggings that I got on clearance for a dollar at the Superstore down the highway. And now. You’d think after 50 years of this slavish devotion to fleeting fashion fads, I might decide to throw in the towel and settle into something sensible that has stood the test of time — like Levis 501s or crisp white button downs or ruby red lipstick. But where’s the fun in that?
The ’90s were schizophrenically fashion forward. I actually owned a pair of AR 670-1 regulation army boots that I had to have my husband help me lace up. I wore those monstrosities with sweet little slip dresses in shades of mauve and persimmon.
But my workout wear was perhaps my most glorious fashion faux pas. I wore iridescent dance tights under G-string leotards that bisected my body in very indelicate ways. And my headband always matched my leg warmers.
The turn of the century made me sad fashion-wise. I just couldn’t do it. Utra-low-rise jeans with two-inch zippers were paired with tops cropped barely below the bosom. Paris and
No, the fun is in giant white sneakers with tractor tire tread. And toddler inspired jumpsuits. These baggy little rompers barely touch my body anywhere and come in a rainbow of colors. I look rather ridiculous in them. So I bought four.
So, what’s next?
I have no idea. But AI does.
I asked ChatGPT to plan my wardrobe for me. The results were uncanny. With little more information about me than name, rank and serial number, AI proclaimed my “style goal” to be “effortless chic with a playful edge.”
“Playful….” I love that. Maybe that’s why the rompers appeal to me so much. Yesterday, at a birthday party for a friend’s oneyear-old, I found myself coveting the birthday girl’s outfit — a sweet little strawberry-print ensemble with bloomers.
Bloomers…hmmm. Do they make them in size 4?
By Liz Biggs
Different strokes for different folks her perspective
I’ve been listening to a lot of Sly & The Family Stone lately since Sly’s recent death. My favorite line from their hit “Everyday People” is “Different strokes for different folks, and so on and so on and scooby dooby do/We’ve got to live together, I am no better and neither are you.” Loving and understanding people who are different from us can be difficult, so I’m going to write about something even more divisive and controversial than politics — my inability to love yoga and tea. I hope I don’t incur the wrath of tea-loving yogis everywhere. Believe me, I long to be a groovy, Zen chick who loves yoga and tea. I’ve tried very hard to like these things. I have failed.
I’m ashamed to say how validated I felt when I watched Apple TV’s Ted Lasso refuse to drink tea in England because it “tastes like dirt.” Finally, someone I can relate to! Seems like all my life, I have been judged for not liking tea. Hot tea, iced tea, sweet tea, green tea — you name it, I can’t stand it. It feels like battery acid in my stomach. I keep trying it though, thinking someday I might wake up and like it. Why do I feel like I’m supposed to like tea? Is it a Southern thing? I like coffee, so all is well in the world.
contorting, pretzel-like pose for an extended period of time is like being strapped to a medieval limb-stretching torture device. I wanted to move, run, dance, crack my forehand, smash an overhead — be anywhere but there. I guess I like sports I can win, or at least score points. And meditation is what sleep is for. If the fetal position were a yoga pose, I could probably excel at that one. When I realized the torture was not going to end in 10 minutes, it felt like a panic attack. I’ve never had a panic attack, but Ted Lasso has, so I kind of know what it must feel like … it feels like being in a yoga class. I tried not to offend anyone, quietly putting away the yoga mat and tip-toeing my escape. She busted me (kindly), so I fibbed and said I had somewhere to be. (Somewhere like a dance floor or a street to walk down, but I hoped everyone would think I had to go back to work or pick up kids.)
The good news is she forgave me and is still a good friend. I’ve tried a few more yoga classes since then, and no luck. My niece did a headstand in her yoga class, and all I could think of was how many bones I would break doing a headstand. My guess is three.
I have several friends who teach yoga (or are super into it), and they are some of my favorite people — kind, talented, smart, beautiful souls who are fun to hang out with. I met one of them years ago when I joined the downtown Y and attempted her yoga class. It was one of those days that I woke up and said, “Maybe today is the day I will start liking yoga,” (probably after pouring tea down the drain). Unbeknownst to me, like Mr. Magoo, I walked into her 90-minute restorative yoga class. My barre, Zumba and body pump classes had all been one hour, so I had no idea what I was getting into. Out of pure politeness, I forced myself to stay for 50 minutes. 50 minutes of misery, but only 10 minutes left, so I thought I could power through. I felt like a gazelle trapped in a coffin. A feral cat trapped in a cage. Holding a body-
This is very difficult to admit, but I don’t like cheese either. Goat cheese, feta and brie taste like vomit to me. If charcuterie boards are the only food at a party, I will starve. I can maybe eat a nut or a grape, but only if it hasn’t touched cheese or gross, greasy salami or sausage. I’m usually pretty quiet about this dislike because cheese lovers scold me way more intensely than yoga and tea lovers. Hey, I like cream in my coffee, isn’t that good enough?
Why do I beat myself up for not liking what normal people like? Why do I keep trying to like things just because other people think I should? Why am I embarrassed to admit how much I love Quarterbacks Season 2? Why don’t I just dance in the kitchen to groovy, jangly, guitar-driven, psychedelic power pop while drinking peach-pear LaCroix and eating celery? Everyone should love celery, right? Ha, I know better than that — different strokes for different folks.
