Pensacola Magazine November 2021 by Ballinger Publishing

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CONTENTS FEATURES 15 SYMPHONIC SERENADES: THE PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA RETURNS WITH PACKED SEASON Executive Director Bret Barrow and Music Director Peter Rubardt discuss what’s new this symphony season.

19 HOLIDAY FUN FOR EVERYONE AT WINTERFEST 2021 Downtown Pensacola’s holiday extravaganza offers seasonal fun for the whole family.

24 THE CENTERPIECE OF YOUR CELEBRATION Festive centerpiece ideas perfect for any occasion.

25 VETERANS HELPING VETERANS Traditional and alternative therapies can help veterans cope with PTSD.

33 THE FLAVORS OF FALL Explore the flavors of fall with four delicious soup recipes created by local chefs.

TOPICS 9 Editor’s Note 10 Page 10 with DeeDee Davis 12 Pensacola Scene 39 Event Calendar

ON THE COVER: Sweet Potato Bisque by Chef George Lazi of George Bistro + Bar. Photo by Guy Stevens

6 | NOVEMBER 2021

Note EDITOR’S s Note Note NOTE

PENSACOLA CULTURE + LIFESTYLE

issue ed rage d re es,

Obesity, diabetes and heart disease became death sentences for too many people battling Covid. While genetics predispose some to these illnesses, many can be managed or eradicated by lifestyle changes. I’d like to focus on making healthy choices while still enjoying the bad-for-you good stuff in moderation.

e least e novel urange es been virus, m you th e y— ambia ly a has y once ct actitis, ver tal or be at is :y, stay ive ng ces. a, too, s han a emic one

Passion and Joy you for putting yourselves onand the front incredible special-needs pets their lines owners I todon’t know about you, but 2020 farwork too of one man. It is the “A soup like thisoffered is not the keep us as safe asthat possible. Also, a precious big shout and she discovered while these result of a constantly refined tradition. There are nearly a little of either of these to me. I was so consumed out tomay all the teachers there scrambling babies take a littleout more care, the loveto thousand years of history in this soup.” — Willa Cather with myinmom’s illness and then with putgive together online to keep our kidssurviving they return islessons worth every second.

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engaged learning worrying about the grief and of her loss instead and theof anxiety theas history. A recipe that is passed I like the idea of of soup

things cannot We appreciate Ifpandemic exoticthey animals arecontrol. more your thing, head down, andyou! expanded by each generation is a prize and the sorrow ofaltered so many national on over to the brand spanking new and to be treasured. Personally, news stories I took you littleto time for myself. I love soup, but I’ve never been On that note,that I encourage read our significantly enlarged Alabama Zoo. melded the flavors together like able to Gulf createCoast a soup COVID-19 provides This year, I Resource hope to Guide, explorewhich creative and that personal soall many of my favorite The new location features the hands-on, up restaurant offerings—until the resources for food, business, community endeavors that as help me rediscover myself Kelly Oden Instant Pot came alongand that is. This wonder of modern close interaction the previous location and more. The ever-changing nature of plus Executive Editor discover new outlets for personal expression. technology has enabled me to cook some epically delicious added attractions, amenities and experiences this crisis necessitates that I mention that soups—my best have been a spicy Thai coconut soup and that willresources make for a wonderful day out. these may or may not family be available an earthy wild mushroom bisque. As the weather cools and the days grow shorter, Procrastination to you by the time you read this issue. I there is no better time for cooking up a batch of slurp-worthy soup. With that in IfWhile you’reitmany interested ina conservation, check out people made headway on soup recipes created by local hope will provide place to glorious start, some mind, we’ve put together a handful of rich and hearty Dakota Parks on local Panhandle Rooftop ideas to or somestory inspiration either home improvement and personal projects in 2020, chefs soothe your soul and fillway. your belly all through the season. I know I’ll be Nesting Biologist, Rebekah Snyder. Through them all out—if I can just figure out the modifications for the Instant Pot! Itrying did not. I did not organize anything. I did not You maywith also notice that Florida, we have some nonher work Audubon Snyder helps fix anything. I did notinlearn a language or a new pandemic related stories this issue. We made to ensure local shorebirds have safe nesting In the spirit of the upcoming holidays, we’ve also included a story on the the call to include already planned articles that skill. Nothing. But that’s ok, too. I’m still magical wonderlandoverpopulated that is Winterfest. It’s here. almost time to meet Santa, spaces in local an increasingly region. might stillaccomplishment. be helpful,and relevant or enjoyable for That’s an However, in I’d the Grinch, Rudolph the whole gang for a2021, truly memorable holiday our readers. We hope you find them useful. All of this, plus a few DIY pet treat experience. Plus, we have the details on the new season of the Pensacola like to lighten my load and empty my house of recipes andthe some goodwhich newsunnecessary from the some Symphony Orchestra, promises fresh ideas much clutter and junk that fillsand unique twists As for of us, Pensacola Magazine has been in the coming months. We also asked a few local designers to give us some Florida legislature regarding protection published one title or another for it. It’s timeunder to make room for something new. advice on creating a stunning centerpiece for our holiday gatherings. With

formore petsthan in abusive situations. 40 years. We have no plans on

a look for all tastes, these local creatives certainly didn’t disappoint.

changing that. We will continue to publish

In this of these So, turn issue, off thewe’ve news,covered put downallyour phonetopics and to bring you all the information we can In honor of Veteran’s Day on November we’ve also included a piece on PTSD and enjoy thesehelp heartwarming talestheir and 11, and more shift own focus in forthe as long to as we can.readers Pleasealong reach out some to us in veteran community with helpful insight from a psychiatric adorable of ideas, photos of local animals and 2021. We hope you enjoy. Here’s to your health! with story ortherapy just a quick professional and inspiration two unique providers. We hope this information the folks who care for them. When hello. We are all working and wethem find a way to cope. From reaches those who need itfrom and home that ityou’re helps done, give acooler little catnip and areofmissing our kitty water conversations. all us at your Ballinger Publishing—we sincerely thank you for your service. throw your dog a bone. It’s these simple Stay safe, healthy and strong, Here’s tothat astay Happy Thanksgiving full ofPensacola! friends, family, food and fun! pleasures will keep us stay all sane.

Executive Editor

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NOVEMBER 2021 Owner Malcolm Ballinger Publisher Malcolm Ballinger malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com Executive Editor Kelly Oden kelly@ballingerpublishing.com Art Director Guy Stevens guy@ballingerpublishing.com Graphic Designer/Ad Coordinator Garrett Hallbauer garrett@ballingerpublishing.com Editor Morgan Cole morgan@ballingerpublishing.com Assistant Editor Dakota Parks dakota@ballingerpublishing.com Editorial Intern Darien Hardy Contributing Writers DeeDee Davis Sales & Marketing Paula Rode, Account Executive ext. 28 paula@ballingerpublishing.com Becky Hildebrand, Account Executive ext. 31 becky@ballingerpublishing.com 21 E. Garden St., Ste. 205 Pensacola, FL 32501 850.433.1166 | fax: 850.435.9174 ballingerpublishing.com Published by Ballinger Publishing:

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NW Florida’s Business Climate Magazine and Pensacola Magazine is locally-owned and operated. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing. © 2021

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Page 10 DeeDee Davis, Contributing Writer

It’s November and you know what that means? Time to take a break from being all consumed by COVID and by football losses. Additionally, no talk of diets or health food is permitted this month. We exercise and starve all year so that we can fully enjoy why God gave us November: Thanksgiving dinner. Mom used to get up during the wee hours of the morning to put the gobbler in the oven for a slow roast so that by the time us kids woke up, the entire house smelled like a holiday. Good memories. We usually have a mob scene at our house for this occasion and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The more, the merrier. My husband and I both love to cook so this is our day. Well, HE loves to cook and I make an annual appearance in the kitchen. Both sides of our families come together to share the feast and give thanks for another year. However, there is one little detail that has caused some pretty heated debate over the years. And while most family members have learned to at least be civil as the discussion inevitably begins, there will never be agreement. The blending of families means more than just bringing contentious political and football rivalries together. Far more important is…. The dressing.

I think I was out of college before I was even aware that dressing could be made from anything other than cornbread. When I was growing up, we could hardly wait to hear my mother announce dinner. We were glued to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade throughout the morning, but what we really wanted was dressing!! And I don’t remember what was on the table other than turkey, dressing, and cranberry sauce. The cranberry sauce was not some original gourmet concoction, as my siblings and I would have acted as if we were being poisoned had such a thing appeared. No, we cherished the glob that plopped out of the can. Delicious! It was only surpassed by the absolutely heavenly dish that my mother created from last night’s cornbread. Heavily seasoned with sage, her dressing makes angels sing. I have tried to recreate it and have come close, but I swear she must guard the precious recipe much like Coca Cola does. Every year we would pronounce it the best she had ever made. We would greedily hover around as she crumbled and stirred, hoping to be the one she chose to sample it before it went into the oven. It was no time for democracy as I unsuccessfully tried to exercise my right as eldest child to get the first taste. You see, cake batter is not the only food meant to be licked from the bowl. It is probably nothing short of miraculous that one of us didn’t keel over from salmonella after the taste test preceding cooking. And oh my, when the freshly baked finished product was set out for us little vultures, it was almost a religious moment. Crispy around the edges, moist with all of that rich turkey broth and a back-up pan

going in because we sneaked so much out of the bowl when we thought she wasn’t looking. Second helpings for all! So imagine my surprise when I first learned that there are people who prefer their dressing with something other than a cornbread base. Blasphemy! I can accept boutique dressings. You know, the fancy types that are often tried but rarely repeated. They are usually on the cover of Southern Living Magazine, where any dish looks tempting. But an annual bread-based variety just isn’t right. Gooey bread was meant for pudding and bourbon sauce. Cornbread is king, and is the only dressing worthy of taking the spot next to the bird, or in the bird. What kind of Southerner sells out to the north-of-the-Mason Dixon line philosophy that dressing could possibly be anything else? My own grown children have pretty adventuresome palates, but their manners were truly tested the year they first took a bite of “it”. A fan of the bread-based variety thoughtfully brought a pan for the holiday buffet. I can still recall the shock on their faces and was impressed by the speed at which the napkins hit their mouths before the gag reflex kicked in. The texture and seasoning are disturbing if you aren’t prepared for it. They are far more cautious now before scooping some of everything available. A cornbread disciple is just not going to change his ways, and why would he? The great recipes in our family have been passed down mother to daughter for generations. Years ago I did some research in order to become a member of

the Daughters of the American Revolution. In reviewing old documents hidden in our family Bibles and books, you can’t believe how many hand scrawled recipes I found. I was searching for identity and I found biscuits. Maybe they are actually one and the same. After last year’s initial struggle with COVID and with a bridge knocked out of commission, everyone will be back and we will have close to 50 joining in the fun. I may have to have psychiatric evaluation after doing this, but it sounded like a good idea when we invited everyone. And, my mother will be there with the blessed dish. Her granddaughters are already whining about not having her recipe. Truth is, I don’t think there is a recipe. We all know the ingredients but only Mom knows how much of everything and how to mix it just right. There may only be a pinch of this and that, but I assure you, there is a whole lot of love in that pan. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends, regardless of your choice in dressing. But we all know which is the best. Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS 1

Sandy Ray

Frank Patti

Buddy Powell

Judy Johnson

Beej Davis

Diane Somer

Opinion piece: the views expressed in this article are solely of the writer and not representative of Pensacola Magazine 10 | NOVEMBER 2021

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 11

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SYMPHONIC SERENADES

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Returns with Packed Season by Dakota Parks or attendees, a night at the symphony is about more than a love of music. It’s also the anticipation of the performance over dinner, dressing up in your favorite clothes, greeting the ushers to help find your seats, mingling with your neighbors and reveling in the sheer magic and communal awe of 60 to 80 musicians playing in harmony to pieces that range from hundreds of years old to contemporary compositions. Behind the scenes, the work that goes into producing an evening of music includes the careful selection

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Bret Barrow explained that the symphony is still closely monitoring public health and safety and actively encouraging masks to be worn inside the Saenger Theatre as well as offering six concerts via live stream for those that prefer to watch from home. The five-concert Masterworks Series and Russian Spectacular are available and can be enjoyed in-person or virtually.

of pieces, dozens of hours of rehearsal, the lifetime of work and skill of the orchestra and conductor and a full year’s worth of work in hiring staff, gathering equipment and selling tickets. The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra kicked off its 2021-2022 season at opening night on October 16 at the historic Pensacola Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola. This season marks the symphony’s return to a full calendar and first indoor full-capacity concerts since February 2020.

“I’m most excited about the orchestra being able to perform for more people and with more concerts than we were able to last year,” Barrow said. “The energy from an enthusiastic, live audience is really powerful fuel for us. These past 18 months or so have really made me appreciate the moments of music and the community experiences that make Pensacola such a great place to live. I don’t think I took performances

for granted in the past, but I certainly cherish them more than ever these days. Making music with great colleagues and sharing that with your friends, family and community is truly a privilege.” This community focus is at the heart of what the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra strives to do both on and off stage. Through the “Beyond the Stage” programs, the symphony utilizes community

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 15

SYMPHONICSERENADES

engagement programs to bring musical education, performances and mentorships to individuals in schools, hospitals and neighborhoods. Throughout the pandemic, the symphony also relied on technology and its program “Virtually Together” to broadcast music on YouTube for the community. One of the other innovations born out of the pandemic are the community concerts called “PSO in the Park,” which feature a small ensemble of musicians in different parks and outdoor venues. These free concerts will continue this season and are scheduled for April 3 and May 8, 2022. “Our mission is to foster the musical culture of this community,” Barrow explained. “We want to eliminate barriers to participation and we also want an authentic experience that speaks to young people, and to older people. Orchestral music ranges from film score and video game soundtracks to the storied masterpieces created hundreds of years ago, and we like all of it. It all resonates differently depending on your own experiences and background. That’s why we work to share experiences that connect with children, families, adults and

16 | NOVEMBER 2021

seniors, and often those concerts are widely different in order to do so. I’m excited about the future of our orchestra and the ways in which we’re exploring opportunities for greater service across generations and throughout the community.” Echoing that same sentiment, Peter Rubardt, celebrating his 25th anniversary as the Music Director of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, explained that choosing the music for the season is a delicate balance between variety and context. “Audiences like to hear their personal favorites, yet at the same time, everybody is also interested in hearing something new and intriguing,” Rubardt said. “The goal is to capitalize on that variety by placing works together in a context where they illuminate each other. Most programs start with a single piece that is speaking to me, or that I feel would be a particularly good fit for the orchestra and the audience. From there, I set other pieces around it that resonate, paying attention to length, difficulty, expense, audience appeal, orchestra size, etc. I also strive to balance the styles and nationalities

people of color, leaving us trying to nurture diversity while the orchestra on stage remains nearly all white. All of these ideas are on the table right now, and I’m quite sure they will impact our path going forward.” In addition to musical selections by jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and Spencer Williams, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will also be melding music and poetry together this season during the popular Beethoven and Blue Jeans performance with readings from local poets Jamey Jones and Charles McCaskill, Jr.

across the concerts as a whole, leading to a season that will draw people in by nurturing their engagement with this amazing art form.” Rubardt also explained that diversity in the orchestra field and in programming itself is of the utmost importance to better represent entire communities.

“Another path is to use the arts to put a topic on the table for reflection, and that’s what led me to Charles McCaskill and his poem that reflects on John Sunday, an important chapter of Pensacola history. I’ve invited Charles to read his poem while we play George Walker’s Lyric for Strings. It is my hope that the arts of music and verse will combine in a way that is Maestro Peter Rubardt meaningful to performers and audience members of all backgrounds,” Rubardt said.

“Diversity has been top of mind in the orchestra field, and it is an important topic that we’ve been discussing at all levels of the PSO. I believe that a diverse society is richer and stronger, and the arts can be a powerful agent for that,” he said. “One path is programming music of composers who are minorities. We are playing music by George Walker and Duke Ellington this season, and I’m excited to share these pieces with Pensacola. Another path is to plant seeds through more work in music education. The path to being a member of a professional orchestra starts with elite training at a young age. Far too often that excludes

Creating these meaningful performances and sharing music with the community is what drives the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. With a packed season calendar and several free community concerts scheduled, there are plenty of opportunities to hear the orchestra on stage at the Saenger Theatre, cozied up on a blanket at a local park or virtually from the comfort of your couch. Season tickets are still on sale, and more information can be found at pensacolasymphony.com.

Season Calendar Nov. 6, 2021 • 7:30 pm Masterworks – Variations & Virtuosity Nov. 7, 2021 • 1:30 pm Free Community Concert Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival Seville Square Nov. 11, 2021 • 3:30 pm From Sea to Shining Sea: A Musical Salute to Service Presented by Pensacola Opera Hunter Amphitheater, Community Maritime Park Nov. 28, 2021 • 3 pm Special Event Home for the Holidays Featuring Ashley Brown Dec. 31, 2021 • 7 pm Pops! – Celebrate the New Year! Jan. 15, 2022 • 7:30 pm Masterworks – Beethoven & Blue Jeans: Poetry, Prose & Verse Feb. 12, 2022 • 7:30 pm Pops! – Come Fly with Me: Music of Sinatra and More Feb. 19, 2022 • 7:30 pm Chamber Orchestra Concert Mozart Madness Mar. 5, 2022 • 7:30 pm Add-On Concert – Russian Spectacular Mar. 26, 2022 • 7:30 pm Masterworks – American Classics Apr. 3, 2022 • 3 pm Free Community Concert PSO in the Park Museum Plaza Apr. 23, 2022 • 10 am Special Event Music for Families Apr. 30, 2022 • 7:30 pm Masterworks – Sounds Triumphant May 8, 2022 • 3 pm Free Community Concert PSO in the Park Museum Plaza PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 17

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Winterfest 2021 By Darien Hardy

It’s never too early to get into the holiday spirit, and for more than two decades Winterfest has provided a late November kickoff to the yuletide season. Winterfest returns to Plaza Wonderland at 223 South Palafox Place in downtown Pensacola this holiday season from November 19 through December 24. This year’s event kicks off with the arrival of Santa Claus and the Grinch, both of whom will be available for pictures. Each weekend throughout November and December, the streets of downtown Pensacola will come alive, and the entrance of the downtown courthouse will transform into the magical Plaza Wonderland, providing locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience the magic of the season. In addition to special performances by Gulf Breeze and Washington High School drama students, there will be three themed trolley tours and a special Cajun Christmas performance starring Papa Noel (also known as the Cajun Santa Claus). This year, Winterfest organizers have set up a new online reservation system that will allow guests to pre-schedule a time slot to have their photos taken with Santa and the Grinch as well as the trolley tours. Reservations can be made online at pensacolawinterfest.org. Photos with Santa will be a little different this year, too. “Santa photos are remaining socially distanced just like last year. Children will be seated on gift boxes and can talk to Santa who will be sitting in his sleigh. This worked so well last year that we will not go back to the good old days of children in the sleigh on Santa’s lap. Adults can get in the photo, too, so now the photos are for the whole family,” Winterfest Board President, Denise Daughtry said.

Photos with Santa

November 19-December 20 (Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 pm–8:30 pm) December 21-24 from 4:30 pm–8:30 pm (ends at 7:30 pm on Christmas Eve) Santa Claus is coming to town and will be available for pictures after each trolley tour. Professional photos will be available for purchase and guests are welcome to bring their personal cameras to take pictures or video during their visit. Children can also bring their Christmas letters to give to the jolly man himself, or they can drop them off in mailboxes that will be stationed throughout the event space. Santa and his elves will also host a special holiday cookie competition. Guests are invited to bring six individually wrapped homemade cookies – along with a copy of the recipe, their name, email and phone number – to be voted on by Santa and his Elves. Winners will be selected each week and will receive two tickets to ride the Winterfest train and have their recipe featured in Mrs. Claus’s very own recipe book.

Photos with the Grinch

November 19-December 20 (Fridays and Saturdays 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm) December 21-24 from 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm (ends at 7:30 pm on Christmas Eve) Mr. Grinch sure is a mean one, but Santa’s favorite nemesis is begrudgingly allowing Winterfest guests to invade his space for a photo or two. Guests will meet the Grinch at his throne behind Santa’s sleigh. Unlike Santa, he likes to ask children what they don’t want for Christmas. Guests should take caution, as Mr. Grinch has some tricks up his sleeve and has a special lever that can launch guests out of their seats.

Grinch Tour

November 21, 26-28; December 3-4, 10, 17-19 & 21-24 Grow your heart at Christmas on a wacky adventure on the stolen trolley. Mr. Grinch used all of the trash from Mt. Crumpit to craft the best trolley at Winterfest. Throughout the tour, guests will get to see more of Dr. Suess’s beloved

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 19

Holiday Fun for Everyone at Winterfest 2021 characters, such as Cindy Lou Who, The Mayor of Whoville, The Cat in the Hat and many more. As everyone knows, an evening in Whoville is the best way to get in the Christmas spirit. The Who’s aren’t sure how well this trip will work, but don’t worry, the Whoville Fire Department is ready with an emergency exit slide just in case.

Polar Express Tour

November 21, 26-28; December 3-4, 10, 18-19 & 21-24 Join the Conductor for a magical journey in a life-size steam engine, the Polar Express. Share in the adventure as the Conductor recounts the story of the boy who received the first gift of Christmas: a bell from Santa’s sleigh. Onboard the Polar Express Tour, guests will see tap dancing hot chocolate servers and snowy landscapes. Rekindle the wonder of the beloved storybook, along with the belief in the magic of Christmas. All passengers will receive a mini cup of hot chocolate. Come dressed in pajamas, if you’d like. The tour organizers will award a special prize to the rider with the most festive pajamas on each trip.

Cajun Christmas

November 21, 26-28; December 3-4, 10, 18-19 & 21-23 The holidays are a time to celebrate with family, and no place does that better than Louisiana. Cajun Christmas is a brand new performance at Winterfest that will immerse guests in Cajun Christmas traditions, games and food. Guests will watch an opening show on the courthouse steps before being boarded on a trolley with a delightful guide. Guests will hear stories of how Cajuns celebrate Christmas in the bayou as they take a short ride to the Historic Village. There, guests will disembark the trolley to another performance featuring Papa Noel, the Cajun Santa Claus.

20 | NOVEMBER 2021

While at the village, Guests can explore, visit the museum, wrassle with gators, play a scavenger hunt or dance to music. There is no limit to how long you can stay at the village, but trolleys will pick up guests to ride back to the courthouse every 30 minutes, with the final ride arriving at 8 pm.

Scrooge Tour December 21-24

Take part in some ghostly fun with the classic tale: A Christmas Carol. Beginning at the steps of the old courthouse for a free to the public pre-show, guests will encounter Ebenezer Scrooge’s long-deceased partner Jacob Marley. Marley wears many chains around him with each link representing a selfish misdeed from his life. Marley must make Scrooge change his ways before it’s

too late when Scrooge will face the same fate as Marley. Soon after, guests will meet the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they show Scrooge how he became so callous toward others, what the true meaning of Christmas is and that fortune isn’t as important as he thought. For tickets and photo reservation times, visit pensacolawinterfest.org.

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The Centerpiece of Your Celebration by Morgan Cole

Fall is officially here and as the temperature drops and the days become shorter, it’s time to trade al fresco dining for cozy, indoor meals with family and friends. While a great bottle of wine and delightful meal can certainly set the tone for any type of holiday get-together, a thoughtful centerpiece has the power to instantly transform your table or gathering space into the perfect place for entertaining—not to mention wow your guests in the process. You can easily create an impressive arrangement with everything from fall-hued leaves to white pumpkins and affordable candles. Whether you opt for a simple bouquet-style centerpiece or something with a more rich, fall-inspired color palette, here’s your chance to get creative for the upcoming holiday season. To help spark inspiration, we have consulted with local experts at Celebrations, Rusted Arrow Mercantile and Fiore of Pensacola to bring you these stunning holiday centerpieces that are sure to make you the center of attention at your next gathering.

Southern Harvest Celebrations

This “Eurogarden’’ centerpiece from the Celebrations greenhouse features a perfect medley of rich seasonal greenery combined with an elegant touch of harvestinspired decor. A complementary selection of rich English ivy, delta maidenhair fern and white flaming katy are tucked inside a rustic wooden planter box anchored by a lush layer of Southern moss. A small white pumpkin and gourd placed amongst the trio of potted greens brings the look together and adds a subtle yet festive touch of fall to this centerpiece design. Dried lotus pods and Southern moss provide texture and bring contrast to the otherwise green and white color palette. The potted plants are arranged inside the planter box in varying shapes and heights to create layers for added depth. A decorative, plaid bow finishes off this design with an additional pop of fall-inspired color. The plant varieties featured in this European-garden inspired arrangement make for a lasting centerpiece that is sure to complement your next holiday feast. Visit celebrationstheflorist.com, or follow @celebrationstheflorist on social media to check out more centerpiece designs. 24 | NOVEMBER 2021

photo by Guy Stevens

Traditional Meets Modern Farmhouse Rusted Arrow Mercantile

Deck the hall and your table with inspiration from this festive Christmas-themed centerpiece by Rusted Arrow Mercantile. This design features a mix of colors and textures inspired by both traditional holiday and modern farmhouse decor. The black and gold table runner and black metal sign give this centerpiece a slightly modern look, while the wood elements and bells bring out more of the farmhouse style. A combination of red trees and greenery are used to tie in some of the more traditional Christmas colors that we know and love. To achieve this look, a black and gold striped paper table runner was used at the base of the arrangement to anchor the design. The metal “Merry & Bright” sign placed on a riser in the center of the arrangement adds height and serves as the focal point of the centerpiece. More traditional elements like iced-cedar garland and tapered candlesticks are incorporated to soften the look. The glittered wooden trees add layers of depth and texture to the overall design.

photo by Guy Stevens

Follow @rusted.arrow.mercantile on social media, or shop online for the items featured in this centerpiece design at rustedarrowmercantile.com.

New Year’s Eve Glam Fiore of Pensacola

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or an elegant soiree, your New Year’s Eve party should have plenty of glitz, glam and a whole lot of celebration. Add a little sparkle to your spread or gathering space with inspiration from this stunning New Year’s Eve centerpiece designed by Fiore of Pensacola. This styled table collection features a variety of layered elements and textures that combine to create a simply stunning centerpiece. The color palette features dark, moody tones and reflective metallics for contrast. Rectangle-cut mirrors placed in an offset pattern capture and reflect the glow of the natural candlelight. A circular gold vase filled with amber-colored roses adds a touch of color and serves as the focal point of this design. The unexpected yet elegant use of crystal and brass candlestick holders and real candles provide a warm ambient glow to complement other metallic elements in the centerpiece design. Crystal and black beads are tastefully scattered across the mirrors to pick up and enhance the flicker of the candlelight. The mix of vintage-cut glass in both black and clear make stunning glasses for aperitifs and

photo by Hara Cook/Documented Photography

champagne. Mixing bold textures and metallics of varying shapes and sizes creates a glamorous, layered centerpiece. Visit fioreofpensacola.com, or follow @fioreofpensacola on social media for more centerpiece designs and inspiration. PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 25

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VETERANS HELPING VETERANS According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs’ National Center for PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health issue that can develop after traumatic experiences such as military combat, natural disasters, car accidents or sexual assault. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, irritability, nightmares, insomnia and more. Considering the unique stressors and difficulties of deployment and combat, it’s not surprising that PTSD is particularly prevalent in veterans. The VA reports that an estimated 11 to 20 percent of veterans experience PTSD. While social stigma and perceived stereotypes often deter veterans from seeking treatment, it is important to know that there are a number of effective treatments and natural therapies proven to help significantly reduce many of the distressing symptoms of PTSD. Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Roshni Patel specializes in treating individuals with a variety of mental health conditions. Once Patel became a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she began working with outpatient clients at veteran-owned Apex Psychiatric Services, LLC. “It’s kind of what I was meant to do—helping patients before they end up in acute care,” Patel said. When a patient first visits Apex for an appointment with Patel, she conducts an initial

assessment to measure their level of anxiety—whether it’s mild, moderate or severe and whether their anxiety is causing depression or vice versa. As a complement to medication, Patel also encourages patients to incorporate natural and holistic ways to help increase their natural serotonin levels. This way, over time, their medication doses can potentially be lowered. Some of the natural treatments that Patel recommends for coping with symptoms associated with PTSD include patients learning new ways to process

BY DARIEN HARDY

their thoughts through guided therapy, exercises such as meditation, yoga, bike rides, walks and anything that increases natural serotonin levels. Patel explained that when veterans experience PTSD, the brain is shocked because they saw something that they aren’t used to seeing or that they don’t understand, and their brain can’t make sense of it. Essentially, they are experiencing a specific and severe form of anxiety that causes their serotonin levels to drop drastically. Patel said the deficit of quality help for veterans experiencing PTSD is substantial: “I was not even aware of the amount of help that was not out there when it comes to veterans and PTSD, but there are so many things that people don’t realize. Veterans who experience PTSD get shocked to a level that they can’t function without proper healthcare.” Many areas of the military prepare people mentally for what they see while in service, but there are others that don’t prepare them at

all, especially when soldiers are just starting off. So, this new trauma that veterans experience causes chemical imbalances. Veterans try to cope with different substances, which often snowballs into addiction. Patel describes a brain with anxiety like a messy room with clothes everywhere. It’s hard to incorporate holistic therapies and coping mechanisms when the brain isn’t balanced. Until that happens, no matter how good it feels pairing these mechanisms with therapy, all it does is add more chaos to the mess that was already there. It creates both physical and mental exhaustion. When therapy is paired with medication, serotonin acts like a housekeeper. It clears away the trash, puts away the clothes and labels all the drawers so there is now a clean room to work with. Then more holistic treatments can be added to increase serotonin and medication doses can be reduced. No matter what situation the PTSD comes from, whether its military combat or abuse in

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 29

VETERANS HELPING VETERANS the civilian sector, it is important for an individual to seek therapy in order to change their thought process to boost serotonin levels, otherwise those levels will continue to drop lower and lower. Patel said for the longest time, anxiety has been normalized. “We still normalize anxiety every day. If you’re getting a little irritated or you get mad or you react to somebody, those are all serotonin deficits. Those are all anxiety that’s built up. The lower the serotonin, the more symptoms of anxiety,” she said. “When I'm seeing somebody that's reacting with anger, irritation, rage—just irrational—it's not really that person. It's not their personality. It's a chemical imbalance. People are so judgmental when it comes to mental health, but when they see somebody lying in a hospital with a heart attack, they don't judge them. Beyond traditional psychiatric care, there are a variety of alternative therapies to help people cope with PTSD. For local veterans Sean Hollonbeck and Teddy Siren, a desire to help other vets navigate the emotional landscape of PTSD led them to establish their own non-profit organizations that offer unique therapies for those dealing with trauma and PTSD.

30 | NOVEMBER 2021

Retired Colonel Dr. Sean Hollonbeck MD MPH worked in family medicine and aerospace medicine, which is a subset of occupational medicine, and is now serving the military along with the veteran community. His career spans over two decades of medical practice, leadership, medical research, management and executive management, logistics and acquisitions. After serving 31 years in the military Hollonbeck retired as an 06 Colonel. During his time in the military, Hollonbeck saw over and over again the effect of PTSD. In the middle of his career, Hollonbeck was at Fort Leavenworth when multiple officers took their own lives because of their struggles. “That was the point where I realized that I needed to make a difference,” Hollonbeck said. It was at this time that Hollonbeck realized he needed to properly talk to somebody. He was not only starting to help others, but also he began to help himself. Hollonbeck said that, medically, if someone broke their leg, they would be told to go fix it, but there is a stigmatized difference when it comes to mental health. “Especially in the populations that I worked in, some people won't go get help because they have this concern that getting help might impact their career or their profession, and it can,” Hollonbeck said. “If you're a pilot, we have to take your flight status sometimes for medical conditions. That's why we have a whole practice of flight medicine.”

Hollonbeck grew up around horses and helped train Standardbred horses that can be used in harness racing. One day while he was at Fort Leavenworth, he felt the need to visit the nearby stables. He went up to a paddock area where four or five horses were. He didn’t know them and they didn’t know him, but they knew he was there and that he was putting off energy.

“When I’m seeing somebody that’s reacting with anger, irritation, rage— just irrational—it’s not really that person. It’s not their personality. It’s a chemical imbalance.” – Roshni Patel They all came up to him and not just because he had an apple. Hollonbeck said that the best part was that he felt a little better. He started going back and eventually brought his younger doctors for physical therapy in order to try to share some knowledge and experience. “I reached out to some organizations that were in the natural horsemanship world, and I challenged them and asked, why don't you have a veteran

program,” Hollonbeck explained. This 15-year journey brought him through another intense deployment and then back home where Hollonbeck officially began the War Horse Project. He began building relationships with the horses as well as the equine community. He also worked to get other veterans involved. Hollonbeck is the founder and board president of The War Horse Project—a community wellness site that uses equineassisted therapy and other modalities to educate, engage and empower those suffering from PTSD, depression, trauma and neurological disorders. Hollonbeck explained that many veterans struggle to control their traumatic memories. For some people, counseling is very rewarding, and for others, it’s not. They don’t feel like it’s working for them or they don’t feel they can open up because the therapist doesn’t understand. Many veterans volunteer and work with The War Horse Project, but they don’t share their war stories. “If that was working, then we wouldn’t need to be here because they’ve already done that in other therapeutic opportunities,” Hollonbeck said. He took a different approach entirely, one that does not include behavioral health models. The War Horse Project grounds are surrounded by natural forest, which, along with the horses, helps veterans reconnect with nature. Research shows equine therapy can lead to a significant decrease in PTSD symptoms. Beyond the cathartic experience of working with and bonding with these majestic

“...just being able to have a space to sit down and put your thoughts onto a page. Not being worried about it sounding silly or somebody not taking it seriously. Having a chance to really just get words out of your head. But on top of that, having the potential to share that with other people, and them actually understanding where you're coming from.” – Teddy Siren creatures, those who work in the field believe horses to be very emotionally intuitive. A horse can sense the pain, anxiety and fear in people and they tend to react accordingly, which can help someone with PTSD recognize and adjust their emotional state. Hollonbeck said that PTSD is a normal survival response rather than a disorder. When people start to recognize this, they’ll start to treat and approach each other kindly and without judgment. “That’s why I don’t call them patients—I call them guests. We need to change the paradigm,” Hollonbeck said. Hollonbeck explained that horses are completely nonjudgmental. “If somebody abuses a horse, it’s not like they have judgment on that person, they have fear and that’s different. The point is that horses, as a species, are not judgmental.” Eventually, Hollonbeck would like to take the War Horse Project to the VA in order to expand its reach and help more veterans. Teddy Siren is another veteran who built an organization to help other service members with their PTSD. Siren was on active duty in the Navy from 2004 to 2011 as an E5 and parachute rigger for survival equipment for pilots and aircrew. He specialized in oxygen equipment, specifically. Siren did some time on board the USS John F. Kennedy before the ship was decommissioned and then was stationed on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower,

where he spent about a year and a half repairing equipment. Siren was taking a class with Dr. Bre Garrett in the English Department at the University of West Florida, and they were trying to find creative ways to access writing on different levels. “I started thinking about the therapeutic element to writing and being able to put thoughts onto paper, and it really got me thinking about the way that a lot of the people that I spent time with in the military like to tell stories,” Siren said. “It led to this kind of rabbit hole spiral of trying to find different methods that writing is used for therapeutically, and I discovered that it’s actually something that’s been used for years in many different realms, especially with the military.” The creative writing workshop, or Creative Coping, is devoted to using writing as a tool to help military veterans deal with the stresses of life on and off campus. For Siren, Creative Coping is not counseling nor is it a class concerned with spelling, grammar, grades or a word count. Rather, the workshop aims to introduce writing as an outlet—as a method to help former service members cope with whatever life is throwing at them. The workshop is currently on hold because Siren is working to revamp and grow with the Military and Veteran Resource Center (MVRC) at UWF and open it up to the public. When the workshop was up, running and meeting regularly, it was

held every two weeks over Zoom. Every time they’d meet, there would be a handful—usually five or six people—which was a good thing. For those who attended, the smaller setting was better because they were writing about personal and intimate parts of their lives. “All of the feedback that we got from the participants was cathartic, for one, just being able to have a space to sit down and put your thoughts onto a page,” Siren said. “Not being worried about it sounding silly or somebody not taking it seriously. Having a chance to really just get words out of your head. But on top of that, having the potential to share that with other people, and them actually understanding where you're coming from. One of the things that we are trying to do with the workshop is build a little bit of a community and show these veterans that what they're feeling is not only normal but they're also not the only ones feeling it.” Siren said the workshop would not have been possible without the University and the Military Veterans Resource Center, as well as the following women who helped him through his own struggles and build the workshop: Dr. Regina SakalariosRogers, Dr. Bre Garrett, Melissa Helmly and Lori Milkeris. Another person that inspired Siren to start the workshop was his grandfather, who was also in the U.S. Navy. When he was in his late 80s, he decided that he wanted to go back to school because he felt like he was losing some basic skills and wanted to

stay sharp. He found a community center that offered night classes for older adults. Siren’s grandfather took an English class that gave him an assignment to write about his military service. The Veterans of Foreign Wars took a group of Veterans, including Siren’s grandfather, to Washington DC, and Siren’s grandfather got the opportunity to read a portion of his story. A few weeks later, he got a letter from a lady that attended and got to hear him talk. The letter talks about the speech he gave and the story he told. “The part in here that really kind of got to me, and I’m actually quoting here, she said: ‘Continue to share your testimony because you hold special treasures inside of you that someone needs to hear,’” Siren explained. Siren said, “Sharing stories when it comes to veterans doesn’t just help that veteran, it actually helps the people who get to experience hearing those stories. It’s a chance for veterans to better understand veterans, and it gives civilians a chance to better understand what veterans have been through.” If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, the VA’s Veterans Crisis Line can provide referrals to mental health services in your area. Call 1-800-273-8255 for help. For more information on The War Horse Project, visit thewarhorseproject.org.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 31

There is something special about Pensacola in the Fall. The crisp blue skies, white sandy beaches, coastal breezes, and the cool—yet not cold—evening strolls through our historic downtown area. But maybe, it’s all of that plus the amazing arts, cultural, culinary, historical, and environmental experiences one can enjoy. All you have to do is get here and Discover it All.

Featured Events

CELEBRATION OF ART: 3D PROJECTION

Nov. 4-15 | Multiple Locations | Tickets: FREE

Nov. 11-14, After Dark | The Little Theatre and Museum of Art | Tickets: FREE; Enhanced Experience Tickets for Purchase

FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA: A SALUTE TO SERVICE

Nov. 4-7, After Dark | Artel Gallery | Tickets: FREE

GULF COAST QUILT TRAIL

SON ET LUMIÈRE: 3D PROJECTION

Nov. 11, 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Hunter Amphitheater at Community Maritime Park Tickets: FREE

Nov. 6, 11, 13, & 14 | Multiple Locations | Tickets: FREE

JAZZ FOR JUSTICE

STAMPED: LBGTQ FILM FESTIVAL

Nov. 14, 1:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Seville Quarter Tickets: GA-FREE; Reserved $25; VIP $50

Nov. 12-13, 5:00-9:00 p.m.; Nov. 14, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Pensacola Cultural Center | Tickets: FREE w/ Reservation

SCIENCE OF STRATEGY

The

Flavors of

Fall

intro by Kelly Oden • photography by Guy Stevens

Each season comes with its own unique set of flavors— fresh peas and strawberries in the spring, juicy tomatoes and peaches in the summer and nutty pumpkin, squash and sweet potatoes paired with earthy spices in the fall and winter. The flavors of fall bring a sense of cozy tradition and hearty nutrition to the dinner table. Whether you are entertaining or gearing up for night in binge watching your favorite show, these soup recipes from four local chefs are sure to satisfy your hunger for fall flavors. →→ PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 33

The Flavors of Fall

Sweet Potato Bisque BY CHEF GEORGE LAZI GEORGE BISTRO + BAR

A crowd favorite at George Bistro + Bar, this satisfying Sweet Potato Bisque will warm the inside of your soul with its sweet and savory flavors. Chef George Lazi developed this dish for his menu as a departure from traditional butternut squash or potato soup, while still maintaining a sense of the fall and winter seasons. His combination of sweet potato, pear and jalapeno with the addition of balsamic vinegar will bring a unique fall twist to your own autumn gatherings.

Top it Off ! Ingredients

Top with jalapeño, sliced and de-seeded

4 sweet potatoes, peeled, large diced

Chives or scallions

15 ounce canned yams

Good quality balsamic vinegar

5 ounce yellow onion, diced 8 ounce carrots, peeled and chopped 3 ounce celery, small diced 4 ounce butter 1 ounce jalapeno sliced, optional remove seeds 1 green pear, peeled and diced 1 pint chicken stock 1 quart water 1 quart heavy cream Cayenne Salt Cheesecloth 34 | NOVEMBER 2021

Method Add carrots, onion, celery and green pear to food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. In a 4-6 quart pot, sweat the carrot, onion, celery and pear mixture in butter over medium heat until mixture is tender. Make a jalapeño sachet by placing jalapeno slices into the cheesecloth, then tying the cloth into a bag. Add water, jalapeño sachet, chicken stock, sweet potatoes and canned yams to the pot.

Bring to a boil on medium-high heat, let boil for 15 minutes to break down the sweet potatoes. Turn off, remove jalapeno sachet and stir in cream. Puree soup with immersion blender or food processor until a smooth consistency. Add salt and cayenne to taste. Garnish with sliced jalapeño and chives or scallions. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

Pozole BY ALDEN GARCIA MI SU STREET FOOD

Pozole is rich, comforting and perfect for a family gathering or party. When cooking at home, try to keep the soup itself traditional, but have fun and experiment with the toppings you serve it with. For this recipe, we are cooking with pork shoulder, but you could easily make this same soup with a whole chicken or two. *Also keep in mind that this recipe will serve approximately 16-20 people.

Ingredients 5-7 pounds pork shoulder, cubed into bite size pieces 4 white onions 24 garlic cloves, peeled 6 bay leaves 2 teaspoons MSG or 4 pieces kombu (approx. 1 ounce) 10 dried ancho peppers 10 dried guajillo peppers 3 Tablespoons oregano 1 Tablespoon fresh or dry epazote 2 Tablespoons white vinegar 1 teaspoon thyme 2 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon peppercorn 1 Tablespoon cumin seeds 75 ounce canned hominy

Top it Off ! Thinly sliced radish Dried Mexican oregano Shaved cabbage or iceberg lettuce Lime

Method Stock Method In a large pot, combine the following: Cubed pork shoulder 2 white onions, quartered 16 garlic cloves, peeled 6 bay leaves MSG or kombu Add water to completely cover all ingredients by a few inches. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 1 hour. Skim the top of impurities whenever necessary. While stock is simmering, make the adobo that will be added later. Adobo Method Start by seeding and cleaning the following dry peppers: 10 ancho peppers 10 guajillo peppers Now you want to “wake up” the peppers. In a medium size pot, bring approximately 3 quarts of water to a boil. Place the dried peppers into water and turn off heat. Allow them to steep for 20 minutes. Once peppers have fully softened, strain and place in a high-speed blender with the ingredients listed below. *Reserve some of this liquid to pour into the blender if needed to keep adobo moving. *Also, toast seeds before adding to the blender in order to enhance flavor.

8 garlic cloves, peeled 2 white onions, quartered & charred in oven or over an open flame 3 Tablespoons oregano 1 Tablespoon epazote 2 Tablespoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon thyme 2 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon peppercorn 1 Tablespoon cumin seeds Blend adobo until silky smooth. *If you don’t have a high-speed blender or if the adobo simply won’t become smooth enough, you will need to strain it through a fine mesh strainer to remove the tiny bits of skin from the peppers. After one hour, strain stock with a fine mesh strainer. Then place the cubed pork, strained stock and adobo into the pot and return soup to a simmer. After one hour, add hominy to the pot *Toasting hominy in batches at 450 degrees for 10-15 minutes helps to take out the “canned” flavor. Now is the time to adjust seasoning and add salt. Cook for an additional hour or until the pork shoulder is completely tender. Top with radish, oregano, cabbage/lettuce and lime. Serve with Tostada shells. Enjoy!

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 35

The Flavors of Fall

Top it Off ! Thai Basil Chili Oil Drizzle

Panang Curry with Seared Salmon BY PAM VAN NESS SABAI THAI

Ingredients

Method

1 can Thai coconut milk

Cook the curry paste in the oil to break up paste. Add coconut milk and mix together. Bring the coconut milk and curry paste to a simmer. Add sugar, fish sauce, peanut butter, cashews, a pinch of salt and water. While the curry simmers, sear salmon over a medium heat. Add carrots, green beans and pumpkin to curry. Once the veggies are tender, serve in your favorite dish. Top with seared salmon and enjoy!

2 Tablespoons of Panang Curry paste 1 cup of water 2 Tablespoons of vegetable oil 1 teaspoon sugar

“This dish is close to my heart. My family enjoys this dish when we get together during the fall season. The Thai pumpkin adds a special touch to the dish, especially during the holidays.” —Pam VanNess

1 teaspoon fish sauce Pinch of salt 1 teaspoon peanut butter 1 filet of salmon, roughly 6-8 ounces 1/4 cup of carrots 1/4 cup of green beans 1/4 cup of Thai pumpkin 1 Tablespoon cashews

36 | NOVEMBER 2021

Top it Off !

Fall Harvest Soup

Shredded Kale

BY JEN KNIGHT END OF THE LINE CAFÉ

This soup is packed full of warming foods and thermogenic spices like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, garlic and onion. All of these work together to get our blood circulating, raise our body's core temperature and keep our metabolism happily trekking along in brisk weather.

Ingredients

Method

2 Tablespoons Earth Balance vegan butter

1 cup dry lentils, rinsed and picked

2 cups shiitake mushrooms, trimmed and sliced

2 cup grape tomato, halved

2 cups lion’s mane mushroom, trimmed and pulled into 1-inch pieces

2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup ginger, grated 6 cup vegetable broth

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

2 carrots, peeled and diced

3/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

2 medium onions, diced

1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper, or to taste

3 stalks celery, diced 1 small butternut squash, peeled seeded and diced

2 Tablespoon nutritional yeast flakes

In a skillet, heat butter over medium heat and sauté shiitake and lion’s mane until golden. Set aside. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrots, onions, squash and celery, sauté about 7 minutes until onions are translucent. Add shiitake, lion’s mane, lentils, tomatoes, ginger, vegetable broth and turmeric. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer until lentils are soft and soup has reduced—about 45 minutes. Lastly, add apple cider vinegar, sea salt, pepper and nutritional yeast flakes. Stir until well combined.

5 cloves garlic, minced

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 37

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EVENT CALENDAR Foo Foo Festival November 4-15 The seventh annual Foo Foo Fest will take over the streets of downtown Pensacola with its grand umbrella of 20 artistic and cultural events. This12day celebration attracts both locals and visitors to downtown Pensacola for a series of culturally creative happenings and fun events of the highest artistic caliber – all with a touch of southern sophistication. One-of-a-kind performances, art exhibits in the streets and even film festivals are all a part of this year’s Foo Foo Fest. To see the entire Foo Foo Festival lineup, visit foofoofest.com.

Constant Coffee Poetry Night November 2, 9, 16, 30 Join Pensacola Poetry at the longest running open mic in Pensacola at Constant Coffee & Tea, located at 615 Scenic Highway. Every Tuesday, poets and creatives come to flex their voices through poetry, rap and spoken word. Come out and support the local arts community and hear a beautiful bricolage of words. Doors open at 6 pm and mic starts at 6:30 pm. Follow Pensacola Poetry on Facebook for updates and information.3

2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Show November 3-6 The roar of the engines, the streamers of smoke, every formation in perfect symmetry. Whether they

are flying high at practice or soaring through a spectacular air show, it is always a thrill to see the Blue Angels cut across Pensacola skies. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show will be moved to Pensacola Beach. 2021 Pensacola Beach Homecoming Air Show Schedule (weather permitting): • Wednesday, Nov. 3: Breakfast with the Blues for circles and arrivals. • Thursday, Nov. 4: Arrival Day and Dress Rehearsal • Friday, Nov. 5: Homecoming Air Show Day 1 • Saturday, Nov. 6: Homecoming Air Show Day 2

The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival November 5-7 The three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the country’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen and other artists. It is held each year beginning on the first Friday in November. Featured festival art ranges from classical to whimsical with everything from traditional painting, photography and sculpture to yard art, musical instruments, clothing, and jewelry. It’s the perfect time and place to begin holiday shopping or to treat yourself to a handmade treasure. The festival is held Friday and Saturday 9 am-5pm

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Variations & Virtuosity November 6 Experience a celebration of incredible music and artistry! The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will be joined by violinist Geneva Lewis for Dvorák’s Violin Concerto, a brilliant, virtuosic work with irrepressible energy. The program also includes Ravel’s light yet reflective Le Tombeau de Couperin and Ginastera’s Variaciones concertantes, inspired by Argentine folk music. In-person and virtual tickets are available. For additional information, visit PensacolaSymphony.com. The symphony is held at the Saenger Theatre from 7:30-9:30 pm.

and Sunday 10 am-4 pm at Seville Square Park.

Island Fights 70 November 5 The most sought-after prospect in combat sports, the 4-time All American, 3-time National Champion Wrestler from Penn State, Bo Nickal (1-0) makes a quick return back to ring against the 2 time SEC Middleweight Champ & Famila BJJ owner Billy Good (5-3). Don’t miss it live on Friday, November 5th at the Pensacola Bay Center for Island Fights 70, starting at 7pm! *Fights to be announced

and subject to change. For more information and tickets, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.

Hot Rods ‘N Coffee November 6 Calling all car enthusiasts! Join this local car club for their monthly meetup featuring vintage cars and trucks. All are welcome and attendance is free. After the coffee and chit-chat, you can join the club for breakfast or lunch after. This month’s meet up is at Chicken n the Egg at 6707 Pensacola Boulevard from 8 am-11 am.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 39

EVENT CALENDAR Pensacola Opera Presents From Sea to Shining Sea: A Musical Salute to Service November 11

Pensacola Children’s Business Fair November 7 Young entrepreneurs between 6-17 years of age are challenged to create their own startup business at our unique one-day marketplace in downtown Pensacola, FL. This event will be held at the Palafox Market from 12-3 pm. Participants learn about financial literacy and get to practice skills in the real world by launching their first businesses. Every year our kid vendors take a portion of their profits and reinvest in the community giving back to their favorite charitable causes.

BrunchFest November 7 Join the first-ever BrunchFest benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast presented by Cox Media and StarPoint Screening is on Sunday, November 7th, at Seville Quarter in Downtown Pensacola! Competing teams provide samples to attendees and compete for the Best Brunch in Town! All proceeds from this event go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, which works in our community to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence through its programs focused on academic success, good character, citizenship, and a healthy lifestyle.

40 | NOVEMBER 2021

Bumpin Uglies & Tropidelic w/ The Ries Brothers November 9 The trajectory of Bumpin Uglies started over a decade ago, making music with friends, playing backyard parties and anywhere else they could get a gig. Fresh off the successful release of full length, “Keep your suitcase packed.”, they are in the midst of a new project called “The Never Ending Drop.” The concept is simple, yet groundbreaking. Bumpin Uglies will be at the Vinyl Music Hall on November 9; doors open at 7 pm and show starts at 8 pm. For more information and tickets, visit vinylmusichall.com.

Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Pensacola Bay on the Hunter Amphitheater stage, Pensacola Opera presents a special Veterans Day concert to celebrate and honor our community’s veterans. The concert will be held at Hunter Amphitheater from 3:30-5:30 pm.

Gordon Open Mic November 11 Join the Gordon Community Center for this month’s open mic night where musicians, comedians, poets and performers celebrate their artistic talents. Open mic night is hosted on the second Thursday of each month from 7 pm to 10 pm the Gordon Community Center located at 306 North DeVilliers Street in downtown Pensacola. If you are interested in performing, you will have a chance to sign-up for a time slot when you arrive.

Mahabhuta Yoga Vegfest November 12-14 The Mahabhuta Yoga Festival’s mission is to celebrate yoga, elevate consciousness, unite communities, create abundance and inspire greatness. This year’s event will be held at Sander’s Beach. For more information, visit mahabhutayogafestival.com.

EntreCon® 2021: Business and Leadership Conference November 17-18 EntreCon® is more than a conference: it creates a chain reaction of positive impact, elevating leadership skillsets and growing organizations rooted in purpose. With incredibly affordable ticket prices and exceptional speakers, EntreCon® is THE business and leadership conference you can’t afford to miss. Join hundreds of thought leaders either in-person in beautiful downtown Pensacola, or virtually on-line an be guaranteed a great experience. This year’s event will take place at the Pensacola Little Theatre from 8 am-4 pm each day.

Creek Indian Fest November 20-21 Creek Indian Fest will take place on Saturday & Sunday at the Santa Rosa Creek Tribe, 4750 Willard Norris Rd, Milton, FL 32570. Residents are invited to celebrate Native American Traditions with wholesome family activities. Festival hours will be from 9:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. both days. Creek Fest is two full days of fun, activities and entertainment. There will be live Native flute music, Native Dance, food, Replica Native American Village and Trading Post, arts and craft vendors, face painting, and various games and activities for children. Craft vendors and artist will be exhibiting throughout the festival. Admission is $5.00 per person with children under 12 free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the Tribal Kitchen.

Tech N9ne’s Strange New World Tour November 23 Tech N9ne is many things, not all of which neatly align with the image of a rapper who’s named for a semi-automatic pistol. He’s an icon in the horrorcore genre, yet cites his religious faith as one of his primary influences. He’s known for his stinging chopper delivery, but claims The Doors as a major musical inspiration. Tech N9ne will be at the Vinyl Music Hall on November 23; doors open at 7 pm and show starts at 8 pm. For more information and tickets, visit vinylmusichall.com.

Gulf Coast Blues Fest November 26-28 Feel the soul at the annual Gulf Coast Blues Fest held at Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds. This threeday festival offers a lineup of talented musicians like L.J.Echols, Big Pokey , Dee Dee Simons, Till 1 LeBrado, Willie Clayton, J-Wonn, Walter Waiters. The schedule includes Friday Night Blues Southern Soul Concert, Saturday Night Blues Southern Soul Concert and Sunday Evening Blues Bus Casino Trip. For more information and tickets, visit gulfcoastbluesfest.com.

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Home for the Holidays Featuring Ashley Brown November 28 It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join the festivities as the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra celebrates the return of Broadway sensation and Gulf Breeze-native Ashley Brown for this special holiday concert. With traditional favorites and holiday hits, and a special appearance by the Pensacola Children’s Chorus, it will be a joyful occasion for all to share. The symphony is held at the Saenger Theatre from 3-5 pm. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit PensacolaSymphony.com.

Pensacola Ice Flyers Schedule For more information and tickets, visit pensacolaiceflyers.com. • November 6 at 7:05 pm – Birmingham vs Ice Flyers • November 13 at 7:05 pm – Huntsville vs Ice Flyers • November 19 and 20 at 7:05 pm – Quad City vs Ice Flyers • November 24 at 7:05 pm – Macon vs Ice Flyers • December 3 at 7:05 pm – Macon vs Ice Flyers

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Special Section • November 2021

Pensacola Children’s Business Fair: Developing the Entrepreneur Mindset Young entrepreneurs, ages 6 to 17, create their own unique product or service, develop a brand, build a marketing strategy and then open their business for customers for this one-day marketplace event held in downtown Pensacola.

Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area Announces 2021 Grant Recipients The IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area has announced this year’s eleven local grant recipients. Each of the non-profit organizations will receive $101,820 to help fund special projects, services and programs within our community.

Around the Region

Find out what is happening in business, government and cultural news throughout greater Pensacola area and Northwest Florida.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 47

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Pensacola Children’s Business Fair Developing the Entrepreneur Mindset By Morgan Cole

Conducting market research, developing a brand and creating an effective marketing strategy are tough lessons for any aspiring entrepreneur. But the young entrepreneurs participating in the upcoming Pensacola Children’s Business Fair are already experts when it comes to these business topics. The Pensacola Children’s Business Fair is hosted annually by Pensapreneur Kids, Inc. to provide local youth a chance to gain first-hand experience with launching their own business venture. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, November 7 from 12 pm to

3 pm at the Palafox Market in downtown Pensacola. The 67 young entrepreneurs, ages 6-17, participating in this year’s fair have created a product or service, developed a brand and built a marketing strategy all on their own. The children will also be

responsible for setting up their businesses, making sales and interacting with real customers at the oneday marketplace event. “The Pensacola Children’s Business Fair is ultimately a massive experiential learning opportunity. it’s a way for children to practice the skills they’ll need to succeed no matter what the future holds such as resilience, creative problem-solving, financial literacy, resourcefulness and self-confidence,” Pensapreneur Kids, Inc. Board President, Ann Novakowski said. When 10-year-old Pensaprenuer, Mia Angeles, was inspired to start her own

bakery, she knew it would take a lot of hard work, but she was up for the challenge. “I knew I wanted to bake because I love making people happy and baking is a good way to do that,” Mia said. After countless hours of research (and many episodes of The Great British Baking Show), Angeles began learning to put her own unique twist on classic dessert recipes, eventually launching MMA’s Bakery. She debuted her new business venture at the first Pensacola Children’s Business Fair in 2019 and gained many valuable skills that she still carries with her today. Now, at the age of 14, Mia PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 49

Pensacola Children’s Business Fair

continues to run a successful bakery and has plans to participate in the upcoming Pensacola Children’s Business Fair again this year. “My experience in the fair has been great. It’s a supportive and fun environment. I have learned a lot about entrepreneurship, pricing,

of businesses has nearly doubled. To date, more than 300 young entrepreneurs have participated in workshops offered by Pensapreneur Kids.

“One statistic that has driven us is that the World Economic Forum estimated 65 percent of children will end up in a job that doesn’t yet exist,” Novakowski explained. “As a parent, that estimate is frankly terrifying. How do you prepare your child for a future you can’t predict? We firmly believe, then and of US students are taught now, that training money management towards an entrepreneurial Money habits are mindset is the formed by the age of key and can carry children well Kids want to be IN into their adult their own boss lives—whether they choose to be - Wingasdoos Financial entrepreneurs or not.” Literacy Curriculum

Did You Know?

10%

8 10

time management and branding from my mentors. I’m glad that I can participate again this year,” Mia said. The idea to host the first business fair started with a group of passionate moms around a kitchen table in early 2019. They were inspired by the original Acton Children’s Business Fair in Austin, TX and knew that they wanted to bring a similar concept to Pensacola. Since the first Pensacola Children’s Business Fair was held in 2019, the number 50 | NOVEMBER 2021

Through mentorship programs and a series of workshops held throughout the year, young Pensaprenuers learn about the difference between revenue and profit, how to create a budget and the equal importance of investing in both yourself and your work. “To be an entrepreneur requires a level of selfefficiency, a sense of community responsibility and an understanding of financial literacy and financial management. The fair lets children experience firsthand how businesses are made as they develop their own unique handmade

“My experience in the fair has been great. It’s a supportive and fun environment. I have learned a lot about entrepreneurship, pricing, time management and branding from my mentors. I’m glad that I can participate again this year.” – Mia Angeles products and bring them to the market,” Novakowski said. This year’s fair will feature a record number of young entrepreneurs pedaling a variety of unique goods and services, ranging from handmade jewelry and comic books to luxurious lip scrubs. Each of the young vendors will donate a portion of their earned profits and reinvest in the community by giving back to their favorite charitable causes. Pensapreneur Kids, Inc. has plans to host additional business fairs throughout the year to help accommodate the growing number of aspiring young entrepreneurs in our community.

“Our vision is a community in which every child learns to earn, save and share. Our future includes additional Children’s Business Fairs throughout the year and strengthening our board as well as our mentoring programs. We are also focused on exploring partnerships to create a more robust pipeline of experiences for young entrepreneurs of all ages,” Novakowski said. The Pensacola Children’s Business Fair is free and open to the public. For complete event details and information on Pensaprenuer Kids, visit pensapreneurkids.org or follow @pensacolachildrensbizfair on social media.

•

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IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area Announces 2021 Grant Recipients On October 17, IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, a women’s philanthropic organization, announced the eleven grant recipients selected at this year’s Annual Meeting. These nonprofit organizations will each receive a grant of $101,820 from the members of IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area.

ENVIRONMENT, RECREATION & PRESERVATION

The eleven grant recipients selected by IMPACT 100’s members are as follows:

FAMILY

ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY Pensacola Children’s Chorus, Inc. Project: PUMP UP THE VOLUME: Building Confidence with Reliable Sound Equipment

The Arc Gateway, Inc. Project: The Arc Gateway SHRED WORKS Bream Fishermen Association, Inc. and PYC Satori Foundation, Inc. Project: Taking the Coast to the Kids—Improving our Waterways through Science and Recreation

Martha’s Vineyard Foundation, Inc. dba Vineyard Family House Project: Caring for Families in Crisis Rally Foundation, Inc. Project: Rally Resource Room powered by IMPACT100

Pensacola Lighthouse Association, Inc., dba Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Project: Shining Light on Buried History

Pace Center for Girls, Inc. Project: Girls Going Places

EDUCATION Escambia County Public Schools Foundation for Excellence, Inc. Project: Pensacola High School Innovation Center Revitalization United Methodist Children’s Home dba Embrace Florida Kids Project: A Higher Education Home: Wrap-around Support for Vulnerable Youth for Collegiate Success

52 | NOVEMBER 2021

United for a Good Cause, Inc. Project: Hope Squad Peer-to-Peer Suicide Prevention for Schools United Service Organization, Inc. Project: Pop-Up USO “Even as COVID-19 has continued to be a factor in 2021, IMPACT members were able to choose to meet at either in-person Focus Area Committees or virtual Focus Area Committees,” Roz Leahy, president of IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area said. “Hundreds of IMPACT 100 members participated in the process to review each

grant application, conduct site visits to all applicants, and select finalists from each Focus Area Committee. We are so thankful for our members who participated and to our volunteer board who facilitated both the in-person and virtual committee meetings, enabling IMPACT 100 to continue serving the community we love.” With 1,120 members this year, IMPACT 100 was able to award $101,820 each to eleven nonprofit organizations in our community for a total impact of $1,120,020. In the 18 years since its inception, IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area has awarded 131 grants to 91 nonprofit organizations totaling $13,950,000. The IMPACT 100 membership season will kick off with the first Meet & Mingle event on Thursday, November 4 from 4:30 6:30 pm hosted by Rishy and Mallory Studer at the new Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel. The full schedule of 2022 Meet & Mingles can be found at: impact100pensacola. org/news-events/events. Any nonprofit organization that believes a grant of more than $100,000 would be impactful for their organization should check out a new, fun and informative series called Link & Learn, created specifically for the nonprofit community. These events are for nonprofits to link with other nonprofit organizations to network and share ideas and learn detailed information about the IMPACT 100 grant process. The first of this series will be held on November 9 from 7:30 – 9 am at The Lewis Bear Company. For more information visit impact100pensacola.org.

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Around the Region will include an acute care hospital, a behavioral health unit and the Bear Family Foundation Health Center. The 178,000-square-foot health center will span six floors and include medical office suites with 162 exam rooms. It will house multi-specialty services including oncology, infusion, women’s health, outpatient imaging, bariatrics, surgery pre-optimization, cardiology, lab and wound care. There also will be a conference center for public events, health education and community outreach.

Bear Family Foundation Makes History with $4.5 Million Donation for New Baptist Campus The Baptist Health Care Foundation announced the largest donation in its 70-year history—a $4.5 million commitment from the Bear Family Foundation for the hospital’s new campus at Brent Lane and Interstate 110. In honor of the gift, which is also the largest in the Bear Family Foundation’s history, the hospital will name its new health center the Bear Family Foundation Health Center. Baptist Health Care Chief Development Officer, KC Gartman called the gift a “once-in-a-career donation.” “You do your leadership by doing, not by talking,” Gartman said to the Bear family at a press conference on October 14 announcing the donation. Lewis Bear Jr., president of the beer distribution company Lewis Bear Co., said he wanted his family’s foundation to do something to help the Pensacola community. “We’re a 17-year-old foundation, but we’re a 145-year family member of Escambia County,” he said. Baptist broke ground in October 2020 on its new campus, which is set to open in 2023 and replace its current campus on E Street. The 57-acre campus

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The entire new campus project will cost about $315 million, and members of the Baptist Health Care leadership said they have been surprised at the community’s generous donations toward the project. “When we announced that we’re going to be building this replacement campus, we were surprised—maybe we shouldn’t have been—that people started reaching out to us,” said Baptist Health Care CEO and President Mark Faulkner. Faulkner said members of the Bear family approached the hospital about their donation only a few months ago. “They had a conversation with us, and they really wanted to do something that would honor the role they had served in the community,” Faulkner said. “And to be a visible reminder of the importance of community.” Faulkner said Baptist still does not have a set plan for the original campus. He said he wants to use the next two years until the new campus opens to consider what the best option is for nearby residents, which could include selling the property altogether. “If we don’t need it, then we’re not going to hang onto it,” Faulkner said. “And we’d rather free up that asset that’s 50 acres that could be something that’s very impactful for our community.”

A Ride to The Secret Place with Sandy Sansing Automotive On Monday, October 18, Sandy Sansing Automotive had the honor of gifting a new mode of transportation to an amazing organization. The Secret Place, an organization that combats human trafficking on the Gulf Coast, received a van this morning as part of Sandy Sansing Automotive’s on-going effort to partner with great local institutions as they strive to achieve their missions. Pensacola is largely affected by human trafficking and this van donation will help The Secret Place divide and conquer to help more children than had ever been possible before. The Secret Place is a safe space of refuge and hope for child survivors of human trafficking. Their mission is to provide a safe space for female-child & young adult survivors of commercial sexual exploitation in Northwest Florida. The Christian-based center offers independent living life skills, health & wellness, therapeutic services, and mentorship. “We create a safe space for those affected so they know they are heard,” Safe Place Program Director Alicia Tappan said. Sandy Sansing Automotive believes in the community, its goals, and its strength. By making donations like this to institutions that have designs on building a brighter tomorrow we can ensure a better community for all. “We are happy to give to such a deserving organization and we are proud of all of the work that [they] do,” Sandy Sansing said. Sandy Sansing Automotive prides itself on creating a one-of-a-kind car buying experience that is both rooted in and serves the local community. Sandy Sansing is a huge supporter of the Pensacola area and continuously helps non-profit organizations reach their goals to ensure a brighter tomorrow.

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From Judge to Attorney: Dannheisser Stepping Down from Bench to Serve as Santa Rosa Attorney Escambia County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Dannheisser is stepping down from the bench and back into a familiar role. Dannheisser will transition out of judgeship on November 23 when he once again will be hired as the county attorney for Santa Rosa County, the same job he held for 22 years before becoming a judge. His term as county attorney will start December 1. “We are very fortunate that Judge Dannheisser is willing to come back and help us out,” said Santa Rosa County Commission Chairman Dave Piech in a written statement. “His experience both with the county and as a judge will do nothing but help the county continue moving forward.” During his last 11 years of presiding over courtrooms, Dannheisser built a reputation as an opinionated and thorough adjudicator who was respectful to juries and defendants alike—unwilling to rush legal proceedings for the sake of speed alone. “It’s been rewarding, dealing with people,” Dannheisser said. “Judges can really do a lot for people. A lot of people outside the system kind of have a misconception of what it is that judges do. They think that all you’re doing is sentencing murderers and robbers. “And, yeah, there are people like that, but the majority of people are not murderers and robbers. They are troubled people who have obviously broken the law. And, of course, the system does good work at handing out punishment, when needed, but also guiding people through the steps of how to improve their lot in life.” That part—working face-to-face with people to help them whenever possible—is what Dannheisser said he has enjoyed most about being a judge. It is also the reason why he is leaving the bench. “It is just kind of a matter of timing,” he said.

Around the Region in the October 3, 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, commonly referred to as “Black Hawk Down.” The review board determined that upgraded awards were in order for 60 of the soldiers involved. Col. Perino was originally awarded a Bronze Star for his heroic actions.

Local Veteran Awarded the Silver Star Honoring Actions During the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu Ret. Army Col. Larry Perino of Gulf Breeze was presented with the Silver Star Medal on October 1, 2021 in Fort Benning, Ga. As the third-highest military combat award, the Silver Star is awarded in recognition of a courageous act performed during combat operations while under fire from enemy forces. Earlier this year, Perino was informed that the U.S. Army had reviewed the actions of more than 150 special operators involved

UF Law School Namesake Fredric G. Levin Donates $40 Million in Estate Gift World-renowned trial lawyer and philanthropist Fredric G. Levin has given the University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law an additional $40 million as part of his estate. College namesake and champion Fred Levin (JD 61) passed away in January 2021 at the age of 83 following an extraordinary life and career. With this generous estate gift, the Levin family’s lifetime contributions to the University of Florida total more than $60 million. This transformative gift will enable the Levin College of Law to build upon existing strengths by recruiting and enrolling talented and diverse students from across the globe, attracting world-class faculty, expanding academic and clinical programs, and ensuring graduate success through robust career preparation. “We remain deeply humbled by the longstanding generosity of Fred and his family,” Laura A. Rosenbury, Dean and

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At the time of the battle, Perino was a platoon leader in B Company, 3-75th Ranger Regiment and a member of Task Force Ranger. During the operation, Perino and his platoon participated as part of a blocking force during a raid. As the task force was about to leave the target area, one of the Blackhawk helicopters providing aerial support was shot down by rocket-propelled grenade fire. As a result, the original mission turned into a rescue mission to recover the crew of the downed helicopter. What started out as a planned one-hour raid mission turned into a fierce 15-hour battle. “I am beyond humbled to be recognized again for this battle that occurred 28 years ago. The events that day shaped and influenced my military career which has spanned over two decades and continues today,” Perino said. “It was an honor to serve as a member of Task Force Ranger. I feel that this Silver Star is really a tribute to the

entire group, especially to the 17 soldiers who gave their last full measure that day.” A native of Globe, Ariz., and the son of a registered nurse and a WWII Marine veteran, Perino attended the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., where he was commissioned as an Infantry lieutenant. Perino’s military career spanned 25 years where he served in key positions with multiple operational assignments at all levels from tactical to strategic to conventional to special operations commands. These positions took him across six continents for deployments or training. Assignments included Operations Officer of a Stryker Infantry Battalion in Iraq; Special Operations Planner at U.S. Northern Command; Commander, 6th Ranger Training Battalion; Chief of Staff, Asymmetric Warfare Group; Director, Force Management, ISAF Joint Command (Afghanistan); and Strategy/ Leadership Instructor, Air War College. Perino currently lives in Gulf Breeze and serves as the manager of program development in Business Solutions at Navy Federal Credit Union.

Levin, Mabie & Levin Professor of Law said. “UF Law has made tremendous progress because of the financial support of the Levins and the support of other donors who have been inspired by the Levins’ generosity.”

unpaid summer work at nonprofits and government entities, and growing the HBCU Pathway to Law Endowment, which provides scholarships to graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities enrolling at UF Law.

In 1999, UF Law was named in Levin’s honor after his unprecedented gift of $10 million – the largest current use gift in the university’s history at that time. The Levin family continued to support UF Law and UF in the years that followed. In 2019, Fred’s son Martin Levin (JD 88) announced yet another gift from Fred – 300,000 shares of stock valued at $6 million – during a celebration honoring the 20th anniversary of the naming of the college.

The estate gift will also ensure that the Levin College of Law is broadly recognized as one of the nation’s top law schools.

“Dad says we must provide those opportunities to others . . . he says that the future leaders – those who are going to make a difference – in all likelihood are not going to be the wealthy, the privileged, but someone we’ve never heard of. Someone who’s worked their way up,” Martin Levin said during the celebration. The $40 million Levin estate gift will continue to provide opportunities to students by supporting scholarships for highly credentialed incoming students, funding public interest stipends for students doing

“Dad loved UF Law, and he loved seeing how his contributions made the law school a better place for students, faculty, and alumni,” Martin Levin said. “Our goal is to help UF Law achieve its strategic priorities and maintain its rightful stature among the nation’s very best law schools.” UF President Kent Fuchs emphasized that Levin’s contribution also sustains the university’s stature as a leading public research institution. “The incredible generosity of Fred Levin and his family will ensure the Levin College of Law is one of the nation’s top law schools at a Top 5 public university,” President Fuchs said. “On behalf of the university, we are immensely grateful to Fred and the Levin family for their ongoing support.”

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HELPING CHILDREN REACH HOME THROUGH HEARTFELT ADVOCACY The NW Florida Guardian Ad Litem Foundation is thankful for the ongoing community support we receive in our mission to support the needs of the neglected, abused and abandoned children represented by the NW Florida Guardian Ad Litem Program’s advocacy on behalf of these children. Visit us at NWFGAL.org to learn how you can help make a positive difference in the life of a child.

Give a child a voice today!

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1800 St Mary Ave #3, Pensacola, FL 32501

ON THE MARKET a Real Estate Section

In This Section 60. By The Numbers: A Look at September’s Market Highlights

64. Five Eyecatching Ways to Update Your Home

66. What to Know When Updating Your Home’s Siding

68. Create a Healthier Home Through Smart Updates

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 59

BY THE NUMBERS A Look at September’s Market Highlights Market Highlights Total sales dipped slightly from August, but were 17 percent ahead of last September, and were the most on record for the month

DAYS ON MARKET

For Sale

280k AVG. SALE PRICE

290 PENDING SALES

3Q sales improved 9 percent compared to the same period last year. YTD sales recorded a 17 percent gain over the same period in 2020 Average DOM for all property types combined remained crept up 3 days from August’s low of 17 days September saw the most new residential and condo listings added for the month in three years

2188

September pending sales were the best on record for the month

SINGLE FAMILY LISTINGS Data courtesy of the Pensacola Association of REALTORS ® 60 | NOVEMBER 2021

17 W Cedar Street | Suite 2 Pensacola, FL 32502 phone: 850.434.2244 fax: 850.434.8081 www.BHHSPenFed.com

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Exquisite Nature Trail home is a custom build. The family room is spacious with high ceilings and hardwood floors along with a gas fireplace with a black walnut mantle. The kitchen consists of granite countertops, maple cabinets, bar seating, island. The Master Suite is immense with a tray ceiling with accent lighting, sitting nook and double doors leading to screened in patio. The additional three bedrooms are very spacious.

Finally hit the market and ready for new owners! Spacious living room with a wood burning fireplace. Kitchen is designed for cooks and entertainers, with plenty of room for baking and prepping, a double oven and tons of cabinets and countertop space. The office has plenty of space for a home office or study. The master bedroom is inviting with two walk in closets, one oversized. Fenced in back yard.

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5728 Rolling Hills Dr | $235,000 | MLS# 598324 A Great Find! Beautiful updated kitchen, dining area off the kitchen, and kitchen bar for quick meals. New flooring throughout. Screened patio beautifully landscaped back yard is fully fenced and there is even a fountain to enjoy and a blood orange that will be ready to be picked.

6446 E Bay Blvd | $850,000 | MLS# 598506 East Bay Waterfront — Lovingly called “The Last Resort” Stunning Views! And you will be pleasantly surprised when you see all this home has to offer! The main house is tucked away and situated on the lot for full water view enjoyment. Dock and boat house ready for your boat.

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5 EYECATCHING WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME Your home is a reflection of you, and your decor should match your tastes. With some simple home upgrades, you can create the perfect space for you and your family, even if your design preferences change over time. “When we’re designing our ideal home, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA). “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time.” Consider these ideas to get started: Add a Fresh Coat of Paint One of the easiest home improvement projects, a fresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a room. Whether you choose to paint the entire space one new color, opt for an accent wall in a vibrant shade or simply freshen up the trim, paint can go a long way toward adding visual appeal and reflecting your personality. Patterned wallpaper, board and batten, stone and tile can also be added to create textured accents. Bring Warmth and Ambience with a Fireplace “A fireplace is for you and your family, a personal addition that serves you and your household in more ways than you may realize,” Goldman said. “October is National Fireplace Month, a time to celebrate the warmth, comfort and ambiance a fireplace or stove can bring to a home.”

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

More than 3 in 5 homeowners have a fireplace or other hearth product in their homes, according to the HPBA, and including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift of warmth, comfort and ambiance you can give yourself. Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your bedroom, bathroom or study, a fireplace can provide an artful design element for your home and a safe, reliable heat source in the event of unexpected weather. Update Lighting Fixtures Proper lighting can bring rooms to life and make spaces look larger and more welcoming. You can brighten up your home in a variety of ways, from strategically placing table and floor lamps that fit your design style to replacing older ceiling and wall-mounted fixtures with more modern styles. Give Cabinetry a Fresh Look There are numerous easy ways to update your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to create a more updated look. One of the easiest is swapping out older cabinet pulls and knobs for more modern options. With a variety of finishes - stainless, bronze, brushed nickel, black, copper

and more - and styles available, you can match your cabinets to nearly any design style in a matter of minutes. Adding a coat of stain or paint is also a relatively quick and easy way to update some of the most-used spaces in your home without completely replacing the cabinets. Upcycle Furniture You can breathe new life into your current furniture by making simple changes. The easiest would be simply rearranging your pieces and moving some to different rooms to create an updated look. You can also add decorative covers to sofas, chairs, throw pillows and more, or take your upcycling a step further and refinish a bookshelf, table or other wooden furniture with a fresh coat of paint or stain, or give it a more weathered look with some sandpaper. Find more ideas for upgrading your home at HPBA.org/house-warming.

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WHAT TO KNOW WHEN UPDATING YOUR HOME’S SIDING (StatePoint) With climate change spurring an uptick in extreme weather events in recent years, homeowners today know that to keep their property – and the people in it – best protected, the siding they select matters. “Not only will the right materials better insulate against extreme temperatures, but durable materials will also help guard against wicked weather and storms,” says Jon Lapp, siding project manager, ProVia. “And of course, siding has a major impact on the look of your home exterior.” The good news is that you don’t need to sacrifice curb appeal in the pursuit of high-quality siding. Here’s what to know when making this important upgrade:

66 | NOVEMBER 2021

Materials Your choice of materials can impact how you feel about your house for years to come. To that end, consider the most popular home siding material, which, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction, is vinyl siding. First introduced in the 1960s, its popularity is no accident. Thanks to its low cost, ease of installation, minimal maintenance and long-term beauty and durability, it’s a favorite choice among installers and homeowners. Just be sure that the siding you select is formulated with weather- and heat-resistant materials, as well as UV blockers to protect against color fade.

Insulation Did you know that most wall insulation is placed only between the studs? Since wall studs represent up to 25% of the wall surface of an average home, that’s like having one entire wall with no insulation at all. Insulated siding blankets your

home, providing continuous insulation between the studs and exterior wall of your home. Look for insulated siding options that are tested and proven to increase the R-value (a measure of a material’s resistance to heat flow) of an exterior wall. One such option is CedarMAX insulated vinyl siding from ProVia. One of the most energy-efficient exterior claddings on the market, it can help reduce your energy bills. It’s also built with a strong, rigid foam backing that can bridge the subtle bows and dips present on almost every wall. This will make for longer, straighter panels for increased curb appeal, as well as greater impact resistance against rain, hail and contact with your child’s fastball. And because it resists fading, chalking, cracking, peeling and thermal expansion and contraction, it will have a longer, more environmentally-sustainable life.

Color Color and beauty are huge factors in your home improvement decision. To get it right, start by using the color selection tools on your manufacturer’s website. It’s important to know that the monitor settings on your device can impact the way the color displays, so contact the dealer to see real color samples made from its actual products before making a final decision. Choose from classic whites, earth tones, bright and colorful shades, or bold, darker hues. Just be sure your beautiful new siding contains anti-weathering ingredients that prevent weather and sun exposure from causing it to fade. Additional siding information and resources can be found by visiting provia. com/siding. “Approach this home improvement project carefully. With the power to boost your home’s beauty and energy efficiency, new siding can offer a great return on investment and protect your home for years to come,” says Lapp.

HEROES REBATE PROGRAM SHOWING SUPPORT TO THOSE WHO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY LeadingRE Heroes is an exclusive real estate reward program for local community heroes that are buying or selling property. For example, as an eligible public service professional selling a home for $300,000, you would receive approximately $1,500 cash back at closing.

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CREATE A HEALTHIER HOME THROUGH SMART UPDATES Many homeowners looking to improve their living spaces seek out upgrades that can add visual appeal, improve functionality or increase resale value. However, some updates can also benefit the mental and physical health of those who occupy the space. While making your home healthier can involve simple steps like decluttering, swapping out cleaning products for natural versions and opening windows to let in more fresh air, there are other projects that can be done to create longer-lasting results. Consider these ideas to create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also impart a sense of well-being.

Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint Changing the color of a room can transform your space while also positively impacting your mood. Bright, warm colors like yellow may be uplifting while cooler shades like beige, pale green and soft blue can be soothing. Repainting can also help prevent mold and mildew growth on walls while repelling dust and allergens. Traditional oil- and latex-based paints give off gases that may cause issues such as eye and respiratory irritation. Look for paints with no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and that are certified not to contain heavy metals, carcinogens and other harmful compounds.

Upgrade Your Flooring Made of natural materials, hardwood flooring is not only attractive but is a hygienic, easy-to-clean choice. The organic beauty and grain of the wood creates an intrinsic connection to nature. You can set the foundation for your living spaces with an option like artisan-crafted Carlisle Wide Plank Floors. Each floor is handcrafted, one board at a time, from sustainably sourced

68 | NOVEMBER 2021

space healthier. Incorporating automated technology like a touchless faucet can reduce the amount of contact with germs while a water filtration system can improve the quality of your drinking water. Updating your countertops with a non-porous material like quartz, which replicates the look of natural stone, provides a contemporary aesthetic, and the antimicrobial surface will not harbor bacteria or viruses.

Create a Bathroom Oasis timbers. Whether you select each detail - wood species, grade, texture and color - or choose from a collection of popular tried-and-true finishes, the result is a unique floor with distinctive character. Learn more at wideplankflooring.com.

Add Natural Light If your home lacks adequate natural lighting, adding or replacing windows and skylights can allow more sunlight into your living space. This offers

several benefits, including an improved sense of well-being and increased productivity, not to mention the potential cost savings when you install energyefficient versions. Additionally, light-blocking shades and adjustable light technologies can work with natural circadian rhythms to enhance sleep.

Modernize the Kitchen From appliances to countertops, there are a variety of kitchen upgrades that can make your

Even a small space like the bathroom can benefit from wellness-focused updates. Soaking tubs and spa showers with hydrotherapy showerheads can help reduce stress and provide a mental respite. Additionally, a heated towel rack not only brings a touch of luxury but can reduce energy usage and keep towels free of mold and mildew between washes. Touchless faucets and toilets can also help reduce the spread of germs while bringing convenience.

Home & Auto go together. Like you & a good neighbor. Michael Johnson, Agent 3127 E Langley Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Bus: 850-478-7748 www.michaeljohnsonagency.com

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to turn on lights from your phone or a voice command to a smart home assistant. They’re fairly easy to install with a screwdriver in about 15 minutes or less and open a world of customization to your space.

4. Make an entrance

TOP 5 HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TO COMPLETE THIS WEEKEND Time spent at home during the COVID-19 pandemic had many Americans tackling the home improvement project they had been dreaming of. The top reason Americans haven’t completed their pandemic project is because it takes too much time, according to a survey conducted by Delta Faucet. Nearly 50% of people in the study think they need a professional to cross the finish line. Home improvement experts Mike and Hannah Maiorano of Monarch Homes in Indianapolis, Indiana, weighed in on the study results and share some of the easiest, fastest and most affordable home improvement projects that have big payoff for the look and function of your space.

1. New kitchen faucet One of the top home improvements Americans want completed in a weekend is a kitchen refresh, according to the study. The Maioranos’ favorite way to update a kitchen is to install a modern faucet. “It only takes about two hours to complete - even for DIY beginners - and has a great impact on how you experience your kitchen every day,” said Mike. 70 | NOVEMBER 2021

Popular features include a pull-down spout and touch operation, where you simply touch the faucet on, and touch it off. They prefer Delta Faucet kitchen faucets, which offer both of these technologies, as well as a large range of modern styles and finishes. You can shop these styles at DeltaFaucet.com/Kitchen.

2. Make your bathroom shine Nearly a third of survey respondents said a bathroom refresh is the project most nagging them to complete. When a full renovation isn’t in the plans, it’s surprisingly easy to achieve a modern look by swapping out your toilet. As for not having the right tools, some manufacturers actually make toilets that install with no tools at all. If you don’t have the option of switching your toilet, consider upgrading your bathroom accessories like towel bars and toilet flush levers. These require very little time, but 72% of survey takers think they impact the look of a newly completed space. “Remember, it’s OK to mix and match metals like chrome, brass and black,” said Hannah.

3. Get smart One way to easily bring your home or apartment up to date is by updating outlets and switches to smart switches. This technology allows you

Another quick and easy home upgrade is to update your door hardware, like knobs, levers and hinges, with modern styles and finishes. “These are often overlooked, but they’re the first impression of a room,” said Hannah. The home expert duo recommends ones with strong lines to modernize your entryways. And try to update all the doors with the same hardware to achieve consistency in your home or apartment.

5. Brighten the block An easy outdoor hack the Maioranos use at a lot of their renovation properties is replacing old, tarnished light fixtures with new styles. And when you’re done installing, finish the project by inserting a 40-watt soft white light bulb. “We’ve found these to be the perfect level for a welcoming night-time glow,” said Hannah. Inside or outside, plumbing or lighting, you can start enjoying these five quick and easy home improvement projects as soon as this weekend. Happy renovating!

Proud to announce our new office servicing the great Gulf Coast! Debbie Horne

850.619.0475

Broker

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4286 Woodbine Rd. | Pace, FL 32571

Office: 850.619.0475 Each office is independently owned and operated.

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Experience Matters! With over 20 years as a proven professional in Real Estate, Ann has an established track record of helping her clients turn their hopes and dreams into reality.

Elizabeth “Ann” Tidmore 8 5 0 . 5 7 2 .7 4 5 8

Broker Associate Certified Residential Specialist 305 W Gregory St. Pensacola, FL 32502

I SPEAK VA! • Buying or Selling

• Investors & Second Homes

• Work with Builders

DeeDee Richards USAF, Retired Realtor

8 5 0 . 24 0 . 2 7 7 2 DeeDeeDoesRealEstate@gmail.com

• First Time Home Buyers

• Foreclosures & REO

CALL ME TODAY! 6231 North W St, Ste 4 Pensacola, FL 32505 850.377.0259

PARADISE COASTAL REALTY

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Call us for a FREE Market Analysis today! We work hard for you and use all the latest tools, communication & advertising to find your buyer and get the best price for your home.

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Kathy Ray

205. 527.6696 KathrynRay@bellsouth.net

Joe Billingsly

850.291.6761 Joe@ParadiseBeachHomes.com

BuyOnPensacolaBeach.com

29 Via De Luna Drive Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

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Thank you to all of our veterans and active duty military for their service to our country.

Office Industrial Sales & Leasing

Retail Land Investment Property Management

24 West Chase Street Pensacola, FL 32502 850.433.0577 naipensacola.com

4716 Rendezvous Cove $2,199,000 6BR/4.5BA 3,723 SF MLS# 593173 DESTIN, FLORIDA

The Resort Property Specialist

LIVE THE

conna@connaodonovanteam.com

pensacolahomelistings.com c 850.232.4001 o 850.932.4102

Over 30 Years Experience OVER 30 MILLION SOLD 2021

Sold

713 Panferio Dr. $1,560,000 Sold 4BR/2.5BA 2,240 SF MLS# 590298 PENSACOLA BEACH

DREAM

1600 Via De Luna $539,900 2BR/2BA 1,244 SF MLS# 590511 PENSACOLA BEACH

1600 Via De Luna $399,900 1BR/1BA 1,244 SF MLS# 596156 PENSACOLA BEACH

Sold Under Contract

825 Bayshore Drive $529,500 2 BR/2.5BA 1,800 SF MLS# 597991 BAYSHORE CONDO PENSACOLA

245 East Intendencia Street

RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL 7 RM/ 2 HALF BATH 2,456 SF MLS# 595231 DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA

2944 Rosa Del Villa Dr $558,500 3BR/2BA 593047 SF MLS# 593047 GULF BREEZE

Under Contract

For Sale

Just Listed

108 Alcaniz St. $345,000 1BR/1BA 843 SF MLS# 592357 DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA

4201 Soundside Dr. $1,097,000

Under Contract

4BR/3.5BA 3,709 SF MLS# 593508 GULF BREEZE

Sold

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Cole of the Beré Jewelers Family

Pensacola Magazine November 2021

Articles inside

Pensacola Scene

THE CENTERPIECE OF YOUR CELEBRATION

HOLIDAY FUN FOR EVERYONE AT WINTERFEST 2021

SYMPHONIC SERENADES: THE PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA RETURNS WITH PACKED SEASON

Page 10 with DeeDee Davis