Pensacola Magazine, February 2024

PENSACOLA MURALS SYMPHONIC SERENADES PENSACON 2024

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BUSINESS CLIMATE ON THE MARKET A REAL ESTATE SECTION

FEBRUARY 2024 • PENSACOLAMAGAZINE.COM

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Direct:Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Shellie Isakson-Smith Loan Officer NMLS #440325 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Shellie Isakson-Smith Shellie Isakson-Smith Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Shellie Isakson-Smith Shellie Isakson-Smith Loan Officer NMLS #440325 Shellie Isakson-Smith Direct:Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Isakson-Smith LoanShellie Officer NMLS #440325 Loan Officer NMLS #440325 www.ShellieHomeLoans.com Shellie Isakson-Smith Loan Officer NMLS #440325 Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Loan Officer NMLS #440325 Shellie Isakson-Smith Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Loan Officer NMLS #440325 Shellie Isakson-Smith CONTACT ME TODAY! www.ShellieHomeLoans.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax:#440325 850.777.3518 Loan Officer NMLS Shellie Isakson-Smith Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 1115 E Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, FLFax: 32501 Loan Officer NMLS #440325 Shellie Isakson-Smith Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Direct: 850.777.3513 850.777.3518 Shellie Isakson-Smith Loan1115 Officer NMLS #440325 www.ShellieHomeLoans.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Loan Officer NMLS #440325 E Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, FL 32501 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Loan Officer NMLS #440325 Loan Officer NMLS #440325 www.ShellieHomeLoans.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Loan Officer NMLS #440325 1115 EShellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, FL 32501 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax: www.ShellieHomeLoans.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com Direct: 850.777.3513 Fax:850.777.3518 850.777.3518 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Direct: 850.777.3513 850.777.3518 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com 1115 EDirect: Gonzalez StreetFax: | Pensacola, FL 32501 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com 850.777.3513 Fax: 850.777.3518 www.ShellieHomeLoans.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com 1115 E Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, FL 32501FL 32501 1115 E Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com 1115EEGonzalez Gonzalez Street| |Pensacola, Pensacola, 32501FL 32501 Shellie.IsaksonSmith@supremelending.com 1115 Street FLFL32501 1115 E Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, www.ShellieHomeLoans.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com www.ShellieHomeLoans.com 1115 Ewww.ShellieHomeLoans.com Gonzalez Street | Pensacola, FL |32501 11151115 E Gonzalez StreetStreet | Pensacola, FL 32501 E Gonzalez Pensacola, FL 32501 ADVERTISEMENT. EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129

Licensed in FL, AL, GA, TN

CONTACT US TODAY! shellie.isaksonsmith@swbc.com IsaksonTeam.com 2107 Airport Blvd Office #19, Pensacola, FL, 32504

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SWBC Mortgage Corporation, NMLS #9741 licensing at www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Loans subject to credit and property approval, restrictions and conditions may apply. Corporate office: 9311 San Pedro Ave., Ste. 100, San Antonio, TX 78216. © 2024 SWBC. All rights reserved. 1060-A6351

ADVERTISEMENT. EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. 877-350-5225. Copyright © 2021.

For licensing information go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Intended for Florida consumers only, Florida Mortgage Lender Servicer License FINANCIAL, MLD909. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. 877-350-5225.

Copyright © 2021.

ADVERTISEMENT. EVERETT INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 For licensing information14801 go to:Quorum www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. for Florida consumers (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254.Intended 877-350-5225.

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CONTENTS FEATURES 16 FUR BALL 2024 Don your best for Pensacola Humane Society's annual Fur Ball gala 18 SYMPHONIC SERENADES PSO presents 2024 performances

16

18

21

29

21 CREATIVE COAST Regional museums worth the drive 24 CANVASSING THE COMMUNITY Five new murals brighten up the Tanyard neighborhood 29 PENSACON 2024 A weekend of fandom fun 32 PERMANENT COLLECTIONS From old world masters to fresh regional artists, local collections house an impressive array of fine art

24

TOPICS 8 Editor’s Note 10 Page 10 with DeeDee Davis 43 Event Calendar

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

BUSINESS CLIMATE ON THE MARKET A REAL ESTATE SECTION ON THE COVER: Wasanga Man by Sergio Garcia as part of PMA's A Question of When: Selections from the Permanent Collection.

Photo courtesy of UWF. 6 | FEBRUARY 2024

32

Kelly Oden Executive Editor

EDITOR’S NOTE

Note

There is no better indicator of the spiritual health of our city, its neighborhoods, and the larger region than the state of the arts. The arts deepen our understanding of the human spirit, extend our capacity to comprehend the lives of others, allow us to imagine a more just and humane world. Through their diversity of feeling, their variety of form, their multiplicity of inspiration, the arts make our culture richer and more reflective.

—Jonathan Fanton, Former President, MacArthur Foundation

ss Note Note

2021 issue urvived e barrage oss and e entire ed ones, kept strange e, at least ng.

The novel ? will de in change our vaccines so far been pronavirus, it from sure you rint with some ually— me, Escambia ne.freely d Santa What has quickly once —the uspect The factitis, I’m over mental virus or be on a ms.

That is time word: stay mmunity, positive e over e--leaving periences.

Only he idea, too, utions ect. ther than d, ocial via

pandemic d—phone eurage the stress, o tancing tribe. Weand ny ng things and can provide mething ht this. more home nhtreturn. g, in our tyhave has had ll see that tering tain. groups munity ow thatways my nd safe s always fference a munity. kitty g.weet I must ounds utpouring heck my ongst th is our et gepaper 34.

ew it.than more our up s for to make h some lause for our

Obesity, diabetes and heart disease became death

I truly believe the arts are fundamental to our understanding of the world and the sentencesand for too many people battling Covid. people creatures that inhabit it. ThisWhile quote from Jonathan Fanton really brings genetics predispose some to these illnesses, many canto the arts within our communities, home the idea that the more access we have be managed or eradicated by lifestyle changes. I’d the more capacity we have for understanding ourselves and others. It’s a fitting like to focus on annual making healthy choices whilehighlights still quote for our arts issue, which some of the many ways Pensacola enjoying the bad-for-you good stuff in moderation. supports and incorporates the arts in our community.

first responders hospital workers? Thank This year,and weand talked Passion Joy with four local museums and galleries about their impressive you for putting yourselves onand the front lines incredible special-needs pets theirknew ownerswe had the works of so many great artists permanent collections.

Who I todon’t know about you, but 2020 far too keep us asin safe asthat possible. a precious bigoffered shout and shehere discovered whileAlso, these right Pensacola?

These collections give locals, visitors and students the little of these to me.

I the waslove so toconsumed out toof alleither the teachers out there scrambling babies may take a little more care, opportunity to view the works of masters like Picasso, Chagall and Goya as well as with myinmom’s illness and then with put together online to keep our kidssurviving they return islessons worth every second. the give work of established and up-and-coming regional artists. For some, this may be engaged and learning instead of anxiety worryingof about the grief of her loss and the the their only exposure to great art outside of a textbook. While seeing these works in things cannot We appreciate you!

Ifpandemic exoticthey animals arecontrol. more your thing, head and the sorrow of so many national books can be wonderful, nothing quite compares to seeing a great work of art up on over to the brand spanking new and news stories that I tookwhere littleto time for speak myself.to the viewer on a different level. We hope On that note, I encourage you read our close and personal it can significantly enlarged Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. COVID-19 which provides This year, I Resource hope to Guide, explore creative and personal you enjoy learning about the many treasures tucked away in these collections.

The new location features all the hands-on, up resources for food, business, communitymyself and endeavors that help me rediscover

close interaction as the previous location andalso more.highlight The ever-changing nature of plusadditions to our city’s growing public and street We the latest mural discover new outlets for personal expression. added attractions, amenities and experiences thispresence. crisis necessitates that I mention that art In conjunction with the 2023 Foo Foo Fest, Pensacola Mural Fest that willresources make for a wonderful day out. these may or may not family be available enlisted five local artists to paint the walls of local businesses along Barrancas Procrastination to you by the time you read this issue. I Avenue.

On page 24, we showcase each of the murals and invite the artists to IfWhile you’re interested in conservation, check out people made hope itmany will provide a place to glorious start, someheadway on discuss their inspiration.

Dakota Parks story on local Panhandle Rooftop ideas or some inspiration either way. projects in 2020, home improvement and personal Nesting Biologist, Rebekah Snyder. Through IWhile did not.

I did not organize anything.

I did not Pensacola does have a bustling You may also notice that we have some nonher work with Audubon Florida, Snyder helps art scene full of galleries and museums, fix anything.

I did not learn a language a new for something new. We’ve rounded up pandemic related stories in this issue.

We made sometimes art lovers are just in the to ensure local shorebirds have safe nesting ormood the call already planned articles that Nothing.

But that’s ok, too.

I’m still here. askill. handful of regional museums that are well worth a short drive—think within spaces in to aninclude increasingly overpopulated region. might stillaccomplishment. beor helpful, relevantregional or enjoyableart for2021, two hours so. From to contemporary and experimental art to an That’s an However, in I’d

our readers.

Weasculpture hope you find them useful.there are plenty of interesting things to explore at All ofto this, plus fewload DIY petmuseum, treat underwater like lighten my and empty my house of recipes and some good news from the these regional art institutions. much clutter and unnecessary junk that fills As for of us,the Pensacola Magazine has been Florida legislature regarding protection one title or another for it.published It’s timeunder to make room for something new. for pets in plus abusive All this, allsituations. the details ononthe Pensacola Symphony Orchestra’s 2024 more than 40 years.

We have no plans

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8 | FEBRUARY 2024

gazine

CULTURE + LIFESTYLE

MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2024 Owner & Publisher Malcolm Ballinger malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com Executive Editor Kelly Oden kelly@ballingerpublishing.com Art Director Ian Lett ian@ballingerpublishing.com Graphic Designer/Ad Coordinator Alana Cox advertise@ballingerpublishing.com Editor Morgan Cole morgan@ballingerpublishing.com Assistant Editor Nicole Willis nicole@ballingerpublishing.com Contributing Writers DeeDee Davis Darien Hardy Editorial Interns Carey Clarkson Austin Mason Sales & Marketing Paula Rode, Account Executive, ext. 28 paula@ballingerpublishing.com Geneva Strange, Account Executive, ext. 31 geneva@ballingerpublishing.com 21 E. Garden St., Ste. 205 Pensacola, FL 32502 850.433.1166 | fax: 850.435.9174 ballingerpublishing.com

Published by Ballinger Publishing:

performances; Pensacon celebrating all things weird, wacky and changing that. We will continue toweekend publish

In this of these So, turn issue, off thewe’ve news,covered put downallyour phonetopics wonderful; and the Pensacola Humane Society’s upcoming Fur Ball—a must attend and to bring you all the information we can and enjoy heartwarming talestheir and own focus in and more to help shift event forthese animal lovers and of no-kill shelters. for as long as we can.readers Please reach outsupporters to us adorable of ideas, photos of local animals and 2021.

We hopeinspiration you enjoy. to your health! with story orHere’s just a quick the folks who care for them.

When you’re hello.

We are we all working from home andthe we issue! Happy February!

As always, hope you enjoy done, give your little catnip and are missing our kitty wateracooler conversations. throw Kellyyour dog a bone. It’s these simple Stay safe,that staywill healthy strong, Pensacola! pleasures keepand us stay all sane.

Kelly Oden Kelly Oden Kelly Oden Executive Editor Executive Editor

magazine

PENSACOLA

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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. © 2024

TICKETS:

Page 10 DeeDee Davis, Contributing Writer

It may only be February, but we are already getting teasers for balmy days ahead. Warmer weather brings on the craving for the inevitable springcleaning, which means a whole lot more than rearranging a closet. Spring is the season of all things fresh, a new start, new opportunities and a new chance to be better in every way. The temperatures may still be chilly, but it is the perfect time to make your plan for your own personal overhaul. Cleaning and organizing always makes me feel better, and with a garden full of dead plants due to one measly freeze, I have plenty of work to do. I like to categorize the process with my home and yard topping the list as the most obvious targets of improvement. But my office, my car and certainly my body all need appropriate attention as well. The planning is only part of the fun. I make several lists for each area and enthusiastically check off completed items. Do you know how good this feels?

Since the body requires more time for noticeable gains, unlike color coding your skirts or alphabetizing your spices, I suggest this is where you start with your plan. Weight loss is only a part of healthy living, and it sometimes takes far more than a calendar year to achieve much needed progress in this

department, even with the popularity of weight loss drugs. It is interesting that since COVID-19, gyms have done much better than anyone expected.

More than ever, people understand the importance of fitness after seeing what happens when you stay at home with a sofa and a refrigerator. There are plenty of exceptions, but overwhelmingly deaths from Covid have been related to underlying causes, particularly obesity. Physicians are the pros, but no one knows your body better than you.

Fitness training has been a process and has involved strong language (from me), commitment and a trainer who stays on top of new information and customizes workouts to meet the needs of his clients. There are plenty of days when it is pure agony to get out of bed early and haul my sorry self into that torture chamber. And my trainer is always so cheerful even when I snarl at him or try to make up reasons to avoid a particularly grueling exercise like pushing the sled. Who pushes a sled??

It’s not easy, but you will get results— and without prescription drugs.

Maybe you already feel in your best condition. Whatever improvements you desire, write down a road map of what you plan to do about it. I find it helpful after working on something as major as health or a new haircut to move on to something readily attainable. The second part of my plan is to show the love to my car. I normally like to wash my own car but I rarely do things like polish the inside, vacuum the trunk or spit shine the tires. In the month of February, I am going to spend an entire Saturday doing all of the above as well as clean the floor mats and reorganize the console and glove box that holds no gloves. Oh yes. I will be riding in style.

At least until it rains.

Part two will be easy to accomplish but the satisfaction is great. So on to part three- my home. Everyone has a project

begging to happen. New carpet? Clean out the pantry or the attic? Label all of the boxes of Christmas decorations so you aren’t fumbling for the right pieces next holiday season? Write down the tasks and put a timeline on them. When I refold everything in every drawer I feel as if it is a new house. No one else can see the results but I can. It’s visibly rewarding and the organization cuts time from planning as you dress for any occasion. Doing this also makes you realize how much you have that doesn’t matter. Get rid of it! You know what they say, “One man’s trash is truly another man’s treasure”.

Part four is my favorite part. I love getting into the dirt and planting new stuff. I am a regular at Lowe’s on Saturday mornings almost year round.

But come spring when the colors hit the tables and shelves, I am a complete sucker for all of it. I have made enough mistakes over the years that I finally can be a little more discerning about what will actually survive a summer here. It is one of the joys of my life to plant and maintain a garden of flowers, herbs and vegetables. They never talk back or whine or complain about Biden and Trump, and when they thrive, all the world is good and beautiful.

A big part of my universe is work, so the office must have the proper feng shui. I have been told it is not necessary to have colorful folders with matching paper clips but I wouldn’t have it any other way though this year I will store more files electronically. I am amping up on purging the files and getting ready to organize my new desk. Heaven! I know what you are thinking at this point—she has more problems than simple OCD. Yes, spring cleaning this year will be the best ever. Any disappointment or sorrow can be made at least a little better by focusing on anything that improves your world. Spring is on the way so what better time to start the welcome party.

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

10 | FEBRUARY 2024

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Pain Relief on the Move

You’ve tried prescription painkillers with no relief. You’ve agreed to the invasive surgery only for it too fail. You’ve even tried cutting edge therapies including infrared light and hydrotherapy.

And you’re still in pain.

“I had knee surgery over a year ago and I was still suffering from residual pain,” shares Preston B. “I complained to my surgeon and my family doctor and they just kept writing me prescriptions for tramadol and hydrocodone. Sure they took the pain away but it was just a band-aid, a band-aid that made me sleepy and dizzy and irritable. I wanted to get back to boating with my wife, not spend the rest of my life asleep in the recliner.”

It wasn’t until Preston discovered acupuncture that he had found a real solution. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat a myriad of conditions and according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) works particularly well in treating chronic pain. “I was seeing an acupuncturist in New Jersey when my wife told me she wanted to move to Pensacola. Spending the rest of our days actually enjoying our boat more than 3 months a year really excited me but I was concerned about finding an experienced acupuncturist to keep up with my progress.”

In a wonderful twist of fate, Preston discovered that his acupuncturist in New Jersey actually knew Dr. Gibbons from a seminar they both attended on treating chronic pain.

At Acupuncture & Wellness of Pensacola, Dr. Gibbons specializes in treating chronic pain and complicated conditions like peripheral neuropathy and digestive issues by blending acupuncture with modern medical solutions like ATP Resonance BioTherapy™ and ozone regenerative therapy.

“My acupuncturist referred me to Dr. Gibbons and I started treatment less than a week after we settled into our new home. My care went uninterrupted and that to me is just amazing. Just yesterday we had the boat out and I was able to jump off for a swim and then climb back on without pain. It’s just incredible.”

“I don’t think it’s a secret that acupuncture doesn’t work like a Tylenol. It takes repeated and consistent treatments to help our patients achieve the pain free life they’re looking for. In some cases Dr. Gibbons recommends 3 to 5 months of comprehensive care and committing yourself to that can sometimes feel overwhelming; a number of our patients only live in the Pensacola area or Baldwin county part-time. Our referral network provides continuity of care while you continue to live your life!”

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Don Your Best for Pensacola Humane Society’s Annual Fur Ball Gala

by Morgan Cole

L

ocal animal lovers will be coughing it up at the Pensacola Humane Society’s (PHS) fourth annual Fur Ball event on March 16. This black-tie soiree at the Pensacola Yacht Club has become one of the largest annual fundraisers for the nonprofit facility.

Founded in 1943, the PHS was initially established as a one-person operation committed “to improving the lives of companion animals.” It achieved its no-kill status in 1985. Today, the shelter has more than a dozen employees with support from nearly 200 volunteers.

Fur Ball made its debut in 2019, when the Humane Society was looking to boost revenue by hosting another major fundraising event in addition to their already well-established Barktoberfest and Paws on Palafox events.

Eloise Lautier, Secretary of the PHS Board of Directors and Fur Ball event chair, teamed up with Deborah Dunlap, Michelle Sauls, Megan Kennedy and a small committee of local volunteers and board members to organize and host the first Fur Ball event. Since its establishment, the Fur Ball has grown to become the Humane Society’s most popular annual event, with tickets selling out each year.

16 | FEBRUARY 2024

The inaugural Fur Ball was a huge success, with a packed house and more than $85,000 raised to benefit the PHS. Since then, that number has only increased, with a total of $125,000 raised at last year’s event.

“Fur Ball is a sell-out every year! It’s a glamorous and glitzy evening that will warm your heart,” Lautier said.

This year’s Fur Ball will be held on March 16 from 5:30 to 10 pm at the Pensacola Yacht Club located at 1897 Cyprus Street.

The evening will include a gourmet dinner, music, cocktails and a series of both live and silent auctions, with the most notable being the popular “Bow Wow Wow Wow Table.” The lavishly decorated table is piled high with wrapped gifts for ten people, which is auctioned off to the highest bidder at the beginning of the evening.

“There are at least $500 worth of gifts at each place setting, making this one of the most popular auctions of the night.

It’s what Fur Ball has become known for,” Lautier explained.

In addition to the gifts on the table, auction winners will also gain access to the open bar throughout the evening. The event will also feature a special Yappy Hour, in which

the Humane Society will show off some of the adorable pets that are currently up for adoption.

Fur Ball guests will also enjoy a Puppy Parade that will take place inside of the event space, as well as designated time for gala guests to mingle with all of the Humane Society’s adoptable furry friends.

“The Puppy Parade features cats and dogs from PHS, which mingle with the guests during the early part of the evening. The Raise Your Paw live auction winds up the event festivities,” Lautier said.

“Fur Ball is a sell-out every year! It’s a glamorous and glitzy evening that will warm your heart.”

Funds raised at the event will directly benefit the Humane Society’s animals staying in foster homes and the shelter.

Adoption fees account for only a small portion of the shelter’s annual budget, and, as a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, PHS relies heavily on grants and donations.

“All event proceeds go directly to helping the animals in our care by providing food, spay and neuter services and medical care. Adoption fees cover only a fraction of the true cost of rescuing homeless animals.

PHS relies completely on grants, bequests and in-kind donations from individuals, and it receives no regular city, county, state or federal funding,” Lautier explained.

Fur Ball tickets are on sale now for $150 each and include a gourmet dinner, wine and an open bar during Yappy Hour. Event sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For tickets and more information on event sponsorship, call Eloise Lautier at (850) 450-8958 or visit the Pensacola Humane Society’s Fur Ball Facebook page. For more on upcoming events, adoptable pets and volunteer opportunities, visit pensacolahumane.org.

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Symphonic Serenades PSO Presents 2024 Performances

by Darien Hardy

Photo Credit by Meg Burke Photography

T

he Pensacola Symphony Orchestra continues the 2023-24 season ready to present a brand new lineup of performances to the Pensacola community. The Orchestra has already played from a wide repertoire, including popular symphonies by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, as well as some delightful and unfamiliar gems by Piazolla, Strauss, Bates and many others, according to music director Peter Rubardt.

“People can expect an array of A-List guest artists and polished, committed performances from the orchestra,” Rubardt said.

For more information about the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, its community programs and details on the season performances, visit pensacolasymphony.com.

Mozart Madness

February 3, 2024 at 7:30 pm First United Methodist Church, Pensacola

The soaring stained-glass windows of First United Methodist Church provide a beautiful setting for the Orchestra’s annual celebration of Mozart. This concert features the composer’s merry and vivacious Still to come in the latter part of the season are a pair of big Fourth Horn Concerto with Jacquelyn Adams as soloist on horn. symphonies by Prokofiev and Vaugh Williams, an achingly beautiful Also on the program are Mozart’s Symphony No. 38, Prague and set of songs by Mahler, Mozart’s famous G-Minor Symphony, and the overture to Mozart’s Don Giovanni. a rollicking, jazzy piano concerto by Gershwin.

General admission tickets are $20 and may be purchased online at According to executive director Bret Barrow, the PSO is on a mission pensacolasymphony.com, by phone at 850.435.2533 or in person to promote and advance the well-being of our community through at the Pensacola Symphony Box Office at 205 East Zaragoza St. live symphonic music and engaging musical activities that serve people for a lifetime. The Orchestra’s community programming, “Beyond the Stage,” allows PSO to serve people not only where they live, where they learn and where they go for entertainment, but also in their critical moments like pediatric care, homeless shelters, or in hospice.

PSO networks with partners across the community to provide musicians who teach, perform and engage with the community.

To serve the mission and ensure they can provide these services for free, PSO actively solicits monetary donations from the public.

“Beyond the Stage” has been well-supported and well-received, and the Orchestra plans to grow the program as resources allow.

“It makes me feel good that we can be stewards of community resources to truly serve our neighbors through music,” Barrow said. “I invite everyone to come hear a ‘Beyond the Stage’ program and consider supporting it themselves in whatever ways possible.

The impact you can have by bringing [music] to others is powerful.”

18 | FEBRUARY 2024

Symphonic Spectacular March 23, 2024 at 7:30 pm Pensacola Saenger Theatre

Join PSO for a spectacular evening, featuring Sergei Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony, conceived by the composer as “glorifying the grandeur of the human spirit, praising the free and happy man—his strength, his generosity, and the purity of his soul.” The program also includes Dmitri Shostakovich’s reorchestration of Modest Mussorgsky’s overture to Khovantchina and soloist William Hagen performing Max Bruch’s perennially fresh First Violin Concerto.

In-person tickets start at $24 and may be purchased online at pensacolasymphony.com, by phone at 850.435.2533 or in person at the Pensacola Symphony Box Office at 205 East Zaragoza St., or the Saenger Theatre Box Office at 22 East Intendencia St. Virtual tickets are also available for $20 at pensacolasymphony.com.

Season Finale

April 20, 2024 at 7:30 pm Pensacola Saenger Theatre

Queens of Soul

February 17, 2024 at 7:30 pm Pensacola Saenger Theatre

Celebrate the iconic soul and R&B music of Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys and Adele in a symphonic tribute that spans six decades. Featuring vocalists Shayna Steele, Kelly Levesque and Ashley Jayy, this concert includes favorites such as Proud Mary, Rolling in the Deep, I Wanna Dance with Somebody and more.

The PSO season closes in a riot of rhythms as the orchestra performs George Gershwin’s Concerto in F, with pianist Orion Weiss, and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ A London Symphony. Composer Wang Lu joins the Orchestra from the stage to share her work, Surge, commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.

In-person tickets start at $24 and may be purchased online at pensacolasymphony.com, by phone at 850.435.2533 or in person at the Pensacola Symphony Box Office at 205 East Zaragoza St., or the Saenger Theatre Box Office at 22 East Intendencia St. Virtual tickets are available for $20 at pensacolasymphony.com.

Mozart’s Magnificent Voyage

Tickets start at $24 and may be purchased online at pensacolasymphony. April 27, 2024 at 10 am com, by phone at 850.435.2533 or in person at the Pensacola Pensacola Saenger Theatre Symphony Box Office at 205 East Zaragoza St., or the Saenger Join PSO for this fun family event featuring a theatrical concert Theatre Box Office at 22 East Intendencia St.. designed especially for young audiences and their grownups followed by a series of hands-on musical activities. Mozart’s Mozart, Mahler & Mendelssohn Magnificent Voyage features the story of the composer’s young March 2, 2024 at 7:30 pm son, Karl, who longs to be taken from his boarding school to spend Pensacola Saenger Theatre more time with his famous father. An old traveling trunk serves as a magic chest that reveals an incredible journey back in time to Join PSO for an exploration of metaphorical light and darkness Mozart’s childhood and into the fantastic world of Mozart’s great through the works of musical giants. This program features Mozart’s opera, The Magic Flute. Along the way, Karl comes to understand Symphony No. 40, one of his few major works in a minor key, and Mozart’s extraordinary life as a traveling prodigy, his passion for Felix Mendelssohn’s Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage, inspired by composing, the pressures of family and fame, and the common the poetry of Johan Wolfgang von Goethe. Mezzo-soprano Susan bonds they both share.

Platts joins the orchestra for Gustav Mahler’s Kindertotenlieder, which sets to music the poetry of Friedrich Rückert stemming Woven into the drama are two dozen excerpts from some of Mozart’s from an outpouring of grief as he processed the deaths of his two most famous pieces, including themes from The Marriage of Figaro children. Heartrendingly beautiful, this intimate song cycle explores and Don Giovanni, selections from The Magic Flute and some of his our shared humanity with the message that while death is powerful, most important and engaging works such as Ave Verum, Symphony love is stronger.

No. 1, Clarinet Quintet and Eine kleine Nachtmusik. After the concert, In-person tickets start at $24 and may be purchased online at pensacolasymphony.com, by phone at 850.435.2533 or in person at the Pensacola Symphony Box Office at 205 East Zaragoza St., or the Saenger Theatre Box Office at 22 East Intendencia St.. Virtual tickets are also available for $20 at pensacolasymphony.com.

PSO will host an instrument petting zoo with the musicians and a variety of other hands-on activities.

General admission tickets are $10 and may be purchased online at pensacolasymphony.com, by phone at 850.435.2533 or in person at the Pensacola Symphony Box Office at 205 East Zaragoza St..

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 19

LOUIS GOSSETT JR. VICKI LAWRENCE

RON PERLMAN MARK SHEPPARD SOFIA BOUTELLA

MAMA'S FAMILY

FAIZON LOVE

MORGAN FAIRCHILD

LAZ ALONZO

JESSIE T. USHER JAMES MARSTERS CHARISMA CARPENTER THE BOYS

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER

TC CARSON

MAT LUCAS

BRIAN HERRING

CHRIS BARTLETT

VANESSA MARSHALL

CHRISTINA VEE

PHIL LAMARR

GARRETT HEDLUND

CREE SUMMER

ELF

FRIENDS

STAR WARS: CLONE WARS STAR WARS: CLONE WARS

MIRACULOUS

SAMURAI JACK

SONS OF ANARCHY

THE BOYS

STAR WARS

TRON LEGACY

SUPERNATURAL

PAULY SHORE

AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN

STAR WARS

A DIFFERENT WORLD

REBEL MOON

ENCINO MAN

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER

STAR WARS REBELS

GRIFFIN DUNNE

TROY BAKER

AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON

PATRICIA QUINN NELL CAMPBELL BARRY BOSTWICK RACHAEL MACFARLANE CLINT HOWARD

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW

AMERICAN DAD!

TAYLOR GRAY

STAR WARS REBELS

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE XMAS

THE LAST OF US

MICK FOLEY

WWE HALL OF FAME

DOZENS MORE GUESTS TO BE ANNOUNCED! • GO TO OUR WEBSITE FOR TICKETS AND INFO @pensacolapensacon faceboOk.com/pensacon @realpensacon

P E N S ACOLA, FLORIDA

scan the qr code for the latest guest anNouncements!

Creative Coast Regional Museums Worth the Drive

by Carey Clarkson

Do you love art? Are you looking for a weekend getaway or planning your next road trip? Consider visiting one of the many art museums within a 200-mile radius of Pensacola. Whether you are heading north through Alabama, west to Mississippi or southeast along the Gulf Coast, several museums offer interactive, engaging and inspiring experiences through art. From underwater exhibits to works from contemporary and regional artists, the Gulf Coast offers an array of thought-provoking and creative exhibitions for a variety of art enthusiasts.

Walter Anderson Museum of Art Location: Ocean Springs, MS walterandersonmuseum.org Designed by architect Edward Pickard, the Walter Anderson Museum of Art (WAMA) is a must-see attraction in historic Ocean Springs along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. WAMA is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the work of artistphilosopher Walter Anderson (1903-1965). Anderson's Art ranges from paintings and drawings to murals and writings depicting (or another word) coastal plants, animals and landscapes. Anderson sought to make sense of the world through his coastal lens, engaging themes from transcendentalism and environmental history to foodways and Depression-era labor. WAMA seeks to inspire discovery, imagination, and community-building through guided or selfguided tours that weave through Anderson's mythic story, empowering individuals into moments of self-discovery and contemplation. Outside the museum doors, visitors venture through Art in the Open, a reinterpretation of Anderson's block print designs by sculptor Zachary Harris. Harris bridges the space between the museum and landscape by transforming Anderson's prints into large, sculpted pieces, encouraging visitors to cultivate new perspectives about life by promoting a unique perspective on the interconnectivity of Art and the world it encompasses.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 21

Mobile Museum of Art Location: Mobile, AL mobilemuseumofart.com Founded in 1963, the Mobile Museum of Art houses more than 64,000 artworks comprising paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, works on paper and crafts to educate, engage and enrich. The museum maintains a schedule of permanent collections and rotating exhibitions by nationally and internationally recognized artists. Only a portion of the 64,000-piece collection is exhibited at any given time, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. Currently on display is Art in Focus (July 2023 to present), with six art galleries showcasing the Art of notable and lesser-known artists such as Walter Cade III, Betty Sue Matthews, Joe Price and more. Visitors can find a selection of Western European eighteenth and nineteenth-century works in European Art: In Pursuit of Beauty, which exposes patrons to the warmth of its brilliantly composed, romantic subject matter.

Visitors can look forward to Spotlight: American South Consortium, from March to August 2024, showcasing new and innovative stories that expand understanding of social and historical frameworks through the art of functional objects.

The Underwater Museum of Art Location: Gulf Coast Waters, Walton County, FL culturalartsalliance.com Recently named as one of the “World’s Greatest Places” to visit by TIME Magazine, the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA), in partnership with the South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA), joined two of South Walton, Florida’s most beloved attractions—the arts and the Gulf of Mexico—to form The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA). This underwater, permanent sculpture exhibit also acts as an artificial reef and serves as a source of biological replenishment and protection for the existing marine habitat, encouraging the expansion of fishery populations. The exhibit also provides enhanced creative, cultural, economic and educational opportunities for the benefit, education and enjoyment of South Walton residents, students and visitors. UMA is one of nine near shore reefs located within one nautical mile of shore, 60 feet below the surface, on a one-acre patch of seabed off Grayton Beach State Park. SWARA’s artificial reef system incorporates a fish/dive reef site, best reached by boat and GPS, and the more accessible snorkel reefs, best reached by kayak, paddleboard or other flotation device.

22 | FEBRUARY 2024

Alabama Contemporary Art Center Location: Mobile, AL alabamacontemporary.org

Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art

The Alabama Contemporary Art Center (ACAC) is located on Cathedral Square in the heart of downtown Mobile's historic district.

ACAC supports cultural production by providing a space free of cultural or political bias, where individuals can find and create meaning. The 'free space' concept encourages conversations that shape identity and seed growth. ACAC advocates for human dignity and diversity as it reinvents what a contemporary arts organization can be. ACAC marshals global talent to engage all sectors of the Mobile community in ideas, issues, and interests that matter and function as a public forum, convener and cultural broker by forming strategic alliances with like-minded cultural, social, educational and civic institutions. Exhibitions and programs investigate themes and topics relevant to the Gulf Coast while creating a national model for constructive community-building through the arts. Currently, the art center hosts Jenny Day's raucous use of materials in a sculptural fete of controlled chaos in A Feast to Remember, which runs through early March 2024.

Location: Biloxi, MS georgeohr.org The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art in Biloxi, Mississippi, showcases an innovative collection of works by George E. Ohr—the self-proclaimed “Mad Potter of Biloxi.” The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum is a bold and intriguing set of selfsufficient structures designed by the award-winning architect Frank Gehry to house and promote the unique legacy of George E. Ohr and exemplify the creative works of Mississippi’s diverse cultural heritage along the Gulf Coast.

Exhibits such as City Within a City: African American Culture in Biloxi and I am the Potter Who Was: George Edgar Ohr serve to educate through compelling exhibitions relevant to the local community, the region and the nation with a strong focus on ceramic arts. Visitors can look forward to the Frank Gehry and Robert Tannen: Art, Architecture and Ideas beginning March 1, 2024. The exhibition features sculptures and artwork of Robert Tannen alongside Frank Gehry’s ceramics works, connecting Gehry to the history of clay and craft within his architectural practice.

Local Art Close to Home Interested in finding work from local and regional artists? From cooperative galleries to working art centers, here are five unique spots offering local artwork, classes and more.

Blue Morning Gallery 21 S. Palafox Place, bluemorninggallery.com Blue Morning Gallery is a cooperative, member owned and operated gallery that features work from more than 60 local artists spanning paintings, photography, woodworking, stained glass and more.

Perdido Artist Gallery Coastal Arts Center of Quayside Art Gallery First City Art Center Orange Beach 17 East Zaragoza St., 1060 N. Guillemard St., 5660 Segura Dr., perdidoartistgallery.com 26389 Canal Rd., quaysidegallery.com firstcityart.org Orange Beach, AL This artist-owned A creative and dynamic Showcasing more facebook.com/ than 50 regional cooperative gallery working arts center features unique and that offers a multitude artists offering local, coastalartcenter inspirational works from more than 75 Northwest Florida artists in a variety of mediums.

of classes including hot diverse work at affordable prices. glass, clay, drawing, painting and more. First City also houses Gallery 1060, which features work from members and local artists.

A multi-studio art campus featuring hot glass and clay studios as well as a 10,000 square foot fine art gallery displaying works

by Gulf Coast artists.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 23

Canvassing the Community

Five New Murals Brighten the Tanyard Neighborhood

P

ublic art has the ability to foster a sense of community, beautify public spaces, express historical and cultural identity and inspire creativity and wonder. Pensacola is home to a number of vibrant murals that serve as a powerful tool for making our community a more vibrant, engaging and meaningful place to live.

A group of local artists recently brightened up Pensacola’s Tanyard District with five new mural installations along the Barrancas corridor as part of the 2nd annual Pensacola Mural Fest (in conjunction with Foo Foo fest). Local muralists and Tanyard neighborhood residents came together to host the first Pensacola Mural Fest (formerly First City Mural Fest) in 2022. The results were so spectacular that, in 2023, a number of businesses along the Barrancas corridor between Garden and Main streets offered their walls for full-scale murals. Pensacola Magazine had the opportunity to showcase these new murals and to speak with each of the local artists to learn more about the inspiration behind their work.

24 | FEBRUARY 2024

Artist: HAND IN HAND (Andrew and Sarah McWilson) Location: Posner Marine, 1710 Barrancas Ave. Contact: handinhandcreative.org Title: Float “Learning to float with the currents of life. It’s a story of family–of home here along the Gulf Coast. Inspired by a personal photograph taken in the early 90s on the sound side of Pensacola Beach, where many of us learned to swim. It’s the feeling of life alongside.

It’s multi-generations of women: the maternal bond.

It’s connection — with each other, with this place and with the water. A connection we hope anyone can find themselves in. It’s our intention to capture a feeling and give the viewer something to unpack. We do this by painting real moments. Floating has been our own life theme lately. Floating is letting go. It’s trusting the currents of this existence and not resisting them. It’s leaning into the vastness of the unknown. It’s being human in this wild ride. We’re always learning.”

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 25

Artist: Eniko Ujj Location: Kingfisher Restaurant, 1500 Barrancas Ave. Contact: enikoujj.com Untitled

Artist: Drake Arnold Location: Pearl and Horn, 1504 W. Intendencia St. Contact: drakearnold.com Title: Trophic Cycle

26 | FEBRUARY 2024

“For the design of this mural, I decided to lean on the idea of the desire for escapism. To achieve this, I took flora and fauna that are native and have historical ties to this area, and painted them in a semi-undersea dreamscape using differing styles of painting. I wanted to play with the idea of mixing reality with the imaginary, so I painted the mullet fish changing from realistic to cartoon-ish, the fish swimming among palm fronds and firebush flowers done in a combination graphic/realistic style. Mullet, considered the people’s fish, has a very important history to Pensacola.

It is a cultural symbol and staple food for various communities, fostering connections between people and the marine environment. As a crucial source of sustenance for many working-class communities throughout the history of Florida, the mullet served as a currency exchanged for goods and connected people across racial and class lines.”

“This painting represents a journey through an example of a food chain in the northern Gulf of Mexico.

The first panel shows the sun, the primary energy source in most food webs. Next is a phytoplankton, which is a microscopic plant that photosynthesizes the sunlight. Then we have a zooplankton, a microscopic animal-like creature which eats the phytoplankton. In the fourth panel is an eastern oyster, which feeds by filtering plankton out of the water. As the food chain continues, the blue crab eats eastern oysters, the ocellated moray eel eats the blue crab and the hammerhead shark, representing the apex predator in this food chain, eats the moray eel. Finally, the last panel features a royal starfish. The starfish is part of a class of species of decomposers, who help to process all that remains and return the nutrients back to the earth, for the cycle to start over again.”

Artist: Monty Welt Location: American Legion Post 33 1401 W. Intendencia St. Contact: @montywelt Untitled

Artist: Banks Compton Location: Merchants Paper Co., 1800 Barrancas Ave. Contact: bankscompton.com Untitled

“My mural for the American Legion Post 33 was roughly 800 square feet and was completed over the course of five days using spray paint. It features patriotic subjects such as Captain Frank Marston (who the post is named after), the Blue Angels and a bald eagle. I’m thankful for the opportunity to work with the veterans of American Legion Post 33 as they continue restoring the building back to its former glory. Excited to see the future for the Pensacola Mural Festival as well, as it continues to grow and work towards bringing fresh, large scale art to the community of Pensacola.”

“My mural tells the personal story of the family owners of Merchants Paper Co., a business with nearly a century of history. The vintage-themed artwork features an old truck that has paper products flying out the back, a nod to the business’s longstanding presence in west Pensacola. The main character and mascot of the business is the family golden retriever, Piper. You can meet her and pet her inside the building during business hours. As an Alabama artist, I’ve added camellia flowers for a personal touch to enhance the surroundings and add some southern charm to the mural. This mural was a huge undertaking with incredible response from the community.”

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 27

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Pensacon 2024 A Weekend of Fandom Fun

by Nicole Willis

H

ere in Pensacola, the month of February marks the start of one of the most anticipated events of the year—Pensacon! This annual comic convention has become a fan-favorite, and it’s returning February 23 through 25 for its eleventh year.

Pensacon lets everyone unleash their inner geek and take over the downtown streets while decked out in elaborate costumes dedicated to their favorite characters. Nerds and pop culture enthusiasts from across the country will flock to the Pensacola Bay Center to join in on the Pensacon fun.

Eleven years ago, Pensacon was simply a dream for Pensacola local Mike Ensley. As a lover of all things nerdy and geeky, Ensley began thinking of different ways that he could share this appreciation with fellow fans throughout the community. Upon analyzing the state of pop culture at the time, he felt as though Pensacolians would likely embrace an official gathering to celebrate all things weird, wacky and wonderful.

“Looking around at how pervasive nerd culture—comics, Sci-Fi, etcetera—had become, I just realized the time was right. Marvel was ruling the movies. The Big Bang Theory was the most popular show on TV. There was just an appreciation of nerdiness at that time,” Ensley said.

Little did Ensley know of the spectacle in which he would create.

Since then, Pensacon has grown to become one of the largest and most popular comic conventions along the Gulf Coast. More than 30,000 people attend the convention every single year.

Pensacon spans all genres of pop culture, making it the perfect convention for fans of every age.

The annual convention offers an abundance of activities hosted as part of the three-day event. Pensacon attendees have the opportunity to enjoy live entertainment, participate in gaming competitions, meet and greet with their favorite celebrities and writers, shop at a variety of vendor booths packed with memorabilia and unique merchandise, attend

panel discussions and more. Whether you are a super fan or a casual pop culture enthusiast, Pensacon offers a little something for every type of fan.

The event is held each February at the Pensacola Bay Center, which is where most of the action takes place. The floor of the Bay Center is flooded with vendors selling a variety of unique pop culture-themed merchandise.

The second floor of the Bay Center houses the various celebrity guests and serves as a space for fans to attend exclusive meet and greets, get autographs and take photos with their favorite celebs.

The top ring on the third floor of the Bay Center is home to the Artist Alley and Writer’s Row portions of the convention, where artists and writers of different genres will have tables set up for attendees to browse their works, ask questions and meet the creators.

Outside of the Bay Center is Poseidon’s Bay—an outdoor area full of food trucks, displays, activities, a stage for live performances and more. Poseidon's Bay opens one hour before the main doors each day of the convention.

In addition to the Bay Center, a number of Pensacon events are hosted throughout the downtown area. “The biggest change [this year] is that we will be utilizing more of the venues at the Wright Place and First United Methodist Church to house panels and events,” Ensley explained.

In addition to expanding its presence throughout the downtown area through a number of events, this year’s Pensacon also brings in a large number of highly anticipated celebrity guests.

“More than 100 actors, artists, musicians, etcetera, will be at Pensacon,” Ensley said. “We’re lucky in that we’ve been around for 11 years now, so we are approached by agents offering us their clients. We do a lot of reunions, so we often work with multiple agents to pull those together.”

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 29

This year’s guest list is jam-packed with exciting celebrities, actors, authors and artists. A variety of fandoms are celebrating reunions at this year’s convention including, but not limited to, Star Wars, Sonic the Hedgehog, The Walking Dead, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Death Note.

More than 10 actors and actresses from the Star Wars franchise will be present. Several notable voice actors from the Sonic the Hedgehog animated series and video game will be present— Jason Griffith, Lisa Ortiz and Pete Capella. Fans of AMC’s hit show, The Walking Dead, will be happy to see Chandler Riggs, Ross Marquand and Seth Gilliam at the convention as well.

Celebrating more than 36 years since first debuting on-screen, the original voice actors for the 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles TV series will also be in attendance—Cam Clarke who voiced Leonardo, Barry Gordon who voiced Donatello, Rob Paulsen who voiced Raphael and Townsend Coleman who voiced Michaelangelo.

There will also be a number of popular anime voice actors in attendance, including Alessandro Juliani, Brad Swaile, Brian Drummond and Shannon Chan-Kent, all of whom played a role in popular manga series, Death Note. Other notable actors from films such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show and An American Werewolf in London will also be present at the convention.

“I’m excited about all the guests! They all bring something special to the event—be it a legend like Vicki Lawrence or Lou Gossett Jr., a respected actor like Ron Perlman or a first time convention appearance like Faizon Love,” Ensley said. “There are beloved genre stars like Mark Sheppard or Diane Franklin, incredible cartoon voice actors like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reuniting, anime stars in our Death Note reunion, respected film historians like David J. Skal and director Joe Dante and iconic gaming voices like Troy Baker.”

With a stacked guest list and a weekend full of activities, there is no wonder why fans love Pensacon. Ensley explained that research from Visit Pensacola showed that Pensacon’s “economic impact each year is in excess of $3 million dollars to the local economy.”

30 | FEBRUARY 2024

Ensley works throughout the year to ensure the best experience possible for everyone who attends the convention. “We’ve already started planning for 2025. We never stop working towards the next year,” he said.

With more than 30,000 attendees each year, the logistical aspect of Pensacon requires careful attention to detail and planning is a year-long process. Having tens of thousands of people concentrated in one area can be overwhelming if it is not managed properly. To accommodate the swarm of people hitting the downtown streets, Ensley works with city officials to plan for the weekend.

“We mainly work with permitting and traffic control with the city.

We partner with the Pensacola Police Department to assist with traffic control and to keep folks safe crossing streets, and we also utilize Winterfest’s trolley system,” Ensley explained.

With many visiting Pensacola from out of town, Pensacon partners with the Pensacola International Airport each year to deck out the airport in pop culture imagery. “The airport has been a partner for 10 years now. Before the convention, they rebrand the entire airport. Guests and attendees who fly in are very happily surprised when they arrive and see all the changes,” Ensley said.

Tickets to this year’s Pensacon are on sale right now. There are a variety of ticket options available for Pensacon. The standard weekend pass is $99.99 and provides entry to the convention all three days. The VIP Experience pass is $194.99 and includes early access, fast pass lines, a souvenir gift, a VIP exclusive shirt, and a bag. There are also ticket options for those who only wish to attend the convention one of the three days. The Friday only pass is $50, the Saturday pass is $60 and the Sunday pass is $55.

Taxes and fees may apply to all prices. Tickets can be bought the day of, but buying tickets ahead of time online at pensacon.com is recommended, as there is the possibility of tickets selling out.

For more information about Pensacon, visit pensacon.com.

To keep up with Pensacon on social media, follow @pensacon on Facebook and @pensacolapensacon on Instagram. Events are always being updated and added, so be sure to check the Pensacon website and mobile app often for the most up-to-date information.

Above: Scott Andresen, Shake Out the Ashes, 2022, hand-dyed silk, metalic thread and acrylic pant on canvas 32 | FEBRUARY 2024

PERMANENT COLLECTIONS

by Kelly Oden

Pensacola’s vibrant art scene is one of the many reasons locals love to call it home and why visitors keep coming back for more. We enjoy all of the benefits of being a relatively small community, but we also reap the rewards of being a place that values the arts. And, we have a lot to value—theater, dance, opera, symphony and a thriving visual arts scene. Not only do we have an accredited museum of art, numerous art galleries and a working arts center, but we are also fortunate to have two higher education institutions with outstanding art departments.

Add Foo Foo Fest and the many arts-oriented festivals and markets occurring throughout the year, and it becomes clear that our unique city can proudly wear the badge of “artsy.”

Many local galleries and museums demonstrate their commitment to the arts through the building of permanent collections. With some dating back 70 years, these prized collections contain the works of international fine art masters and pop-culture icons, as well as work produced by local, regional and visiting artists.

From Picasso and Chagall to Maplethorpe and Christo, these galleries and museums collect and preserve art for the enrichment of our community.

Pensacola Magazine invites you to learn about the rich and creatively diverse permanent collections housed in our local galleries and museums. Each organization highlighted holds (or plans to hold) an annual exhibit of its permanent collection and many offer scheduled access to the public. We hope you will be inspired to seek out these collections and enjoy all that our arts community has to offer.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 33

PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART Above: Sergio Ramon García, Wasanga Man, 2013, oil, acrylic, charcoal and ink on canvas Opposite page: Top left: Marc Chagall, Vision of Paris, 1952, lithograph

34 | FEBRUARY 2024

Top right: Robert Hodgell, Old Jonah, ca. 1970, lithograph

Bottom left: Alexander Calder, Pyramids, 1971, lithograph

Bottom right: Jack Ramsey, Caretaker’s Rock, 1976, oil on paper

The Permanent Collection at the Pensacola Museum of Art is composed of 20th and 21st-century works of art by international, national and regionally acclaimed artists.

Although the emphasis is on modern and contemporary art, the collection also includes a fine selection of European and American decorative glass as well as African tribal art and sculptural works.

Established nearly 70 years ago at the museum’s inception, the collection consists of 700 works and boasts many well-known names including Miriam Schapiro, John James Audubon, Emil Holzhauer, Thomas Hart Benton, Käthe Kollwitz, Alexander Calder, Pablo Picasso, Alfred Stieglitz and Louise Nevelson.

The acquisition and collection committee oversees the permanent collection. “We have carefully assembled and interpreted multiple special collections over the last five years that relate to important artists, a variety of fine art mediums, and historical periods,” Pensacola Museum of Art Director,

Nicholas Croghan said. “We have acquired these pieces with the goal to produce meaningful and thought-provoking experiences for the community.”

The permanent collection represents a wide array of artistic styles and serves to enhance the art education of University of West Florida students and community members alike. “We consider ourselves the caretakers of this critically important collection and take special precautions to conserve the work for future generations. We have made it a goal to display different works from the collection in annual thematic exhibitions so that local Pensacolians can enjoy what their city has to offer.

We create free programs in connection to these shows for the community to enjoy our collections in unique ways, learn artistic techniques, and see important historical objects from our region. Furthermore, we encourage scholars to schedule research appointments at the museum to study these primary sources first-hand,” Croghan said.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 35

ARTEL GALLERY Above: Paula Perdue, The "A" Line, collage Opposite page: Top left: Maria Hoch, Beach Pose, pastel

Bottom left: Don Huber, Mansion, 1993

Top center: Paula Perdue, Pond, 2013, collage

Bottom center: Ruta (Janiulis), Gardner's House, 2019

Top right: Larry Vosbury, Pharaoh's Ladybug, 2002

Bottom right: Ronald Griswold, Our Madonna with the Blue Hair, 1998

36 | FEBRUARY 2024

Now in its 36th year, the Cinco Banderas (Five Flags) endowment fund was started in 1988 by the Kobacker family.

The endowment was established to support outstanding artists in the Northwest Florida region and to provide funds for non-traditional art programs. Artel, the area’s only nonprofit, all-volunteer experimental art gallery, has acted as a custodian of the collection and hosted the juried competition for more than two decades. With approximately 125 pieces in the collection, many of the artists are well-known locally including contemporary artist April Matisse, printmaker Craig Yingst, woodworker Reid Leonard and glassblower Joe Hobbs.

The annual competition is open to all artists of any age and any media. All pieces selected for the competition are exhibited in late October, and the juror selects one or more pieces to be purchased and added to the gallery’s permanent collection.

The entire Cinco Banderas collection is exhibited each October for two weeks before the competition in Artel’s home in the old Palafox courthouse.

Board Member and Public Relations Director, Devin Bonner sees the collection as a unique treasure for the community.

“We do have more thought-provoking, conversation-starting pieces. People come in and sometimes they look at a piece and say, ‘Okay, now I'm confused.’ I think that's great because now we can have a conversation. We can have an interaction to figure out what this means to them. In today's society, art is a very useful tool to connect to different types of people and different viewpoints,” Bonner said.

While many pieces from the collection are displayed year-round in the Cinco Banderas Gallery at Artel, the rest of the collection is stored in a secured, temperature-controlled room.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 37

PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE Above: Robert Mapplethorpe, Untitled #3, 1985, single color photogravure etching with hand watercolor Opposite page: Top left: A. D. Greer, Floral Bouquet in Vase, 20th century, oil on canvas

Top right: Francisco Goya, Algun Partido Saca, 1863, etching on paper

Bottom left: Christo & Jeanne-Claude, Wrapped Monument to Leonardo, 1971,

color collotype from a photograph by Shunk & Kender

Bottom right: Mark Alan Francis, Torreya State Park, Bristol, FL, 2022,

Alternative Process (Mordancage photograph) 38 | FEBRUARY 2024

Founded in 1970 as part of Pensacola State College, the Permanent Collection of the Anna Lamar Switzer Center for Visual Arts consists of 597 pieces of art in a variety of mediums. “ The Permanent Collection serves to enhance student learning experiences and support college goals for research, teaching, and service. We strive to acquire and maintain quality collections that meet the mission and vision of the institute,” Visual Arts Department Head, Brian Weaver explained.

The collection boasts several well-known pieces from masters like Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse and Francisco Goya, but the work from visiting, exhibiting and regional artists accounts for the majority of the collection, including work from internationally acclaimed installation artists Christo and Jean Claude, American ceramicist Don Reitz and New Orleans mixed media artist Scott Andresen. Student work has also been acquired from the Annual Student Art Awards Exhibition, and the collection holds multiple sub-collections from private donors including the Hirsch, Malt, Rundquist, Sprague, and Voss Collections.

While the collection is stunning in and of itself, Weaver sees it as a resource for the entire community. “The Permanent Collection serves as an incredibly valuable resource towards the holistic enrichment, intellectual stimulation and social engagement with concepts, ideals, technical mastery, and appreciation of the arts for our amazing PSC students, the vastly supportive patrons and the wonderful Pensacola community,” Weaver said.

An exhibition of the Permanent Collection is held roughly once every two years, but a hallway exhibition space at the Anna Lamar Switzer Center for Visual Arts is dedicated to displaying about 20 pieces from the collection at all times. New plans for the collection include working with the Anna Society to digitally catalog and archive every piece and to make the entirety of the collection available online for the public to view.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 39

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA Above: Leslie Mutchler, Green Space/Outer Space, 2010, digital output on Somerset paper Opposite page: Top left: Robert Henri, Reclining Nude, Early 20th Century, oil on canvas

Top right: Giovanni, Battista Piranesi, Carceri d'Inenzione (Prison Scenes),

18th Century, Etching

40 | FEBRUARY 2024

Bottom: Albert Exergian, Iconic TV Series, 2009 - 2010, A1 Epson Giclee Prints

The University of West Florida’s (UWF) TAG Gallery Permanent Collection loosely began in the 1990s. Initially, the collection consisted primarily of student and faculty work, with other artists later donating pieces. In 2005, the Fort Walton Beach Museum of Art closed its doors, and UWF acquired its collection, which became the UWF Permanent Collection.

The collection currently consists of approximately 1,500 pieces.

Works in every medium are included, but it consists largely of works on paper. One of the most valuable works both in terms of monetary value and artistic relevance is a reclining nude painting by Robert Henri, who was a famous early 20thcentury painter. Henri studied in France and later came back to America and worked with the Ashcan school, formed by a group of artists who were interested in depicting the gritty realism of industrial America at that time. Other significant pieces include paintings by Robert G. Young and Mimi Bash as well as photos by Dorothy Lange and Evan Walker.

While the collection does contain some works by established and acclaimed artists, the focus has shifted to collecting more contemporary works. Pensacola Museum of Art Director, Nicholas Croghan is currently assisting at TAG Gallery until the university hires a permanent director. “The TAG collection has even more of a pedagogical emphasis on collecting artists who have come and done shows and workshops at TAG and who have worked with students. There's also a lot of student work, especially from the printmaking classes. We're trying to prepare students to go out and be working artists and to know how to properly present their work, ” Croghan said.

The majority of pieces in the collection are acquired via donations—from faculty, students, visiting artists and community members. Some works were purchased from galleries, and others were purchased as part of the University’s annual juried exhibition award. UWF faculty use the collection for instructional purposes, and students, as well as the public, are welcome to make an appointment to view pieces in the collection.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 41

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EVENT CALENDAR February home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.

with a garden fork. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time will be at the Pensacola Little Theatre located at 400 S. Jefferson St. For showtimes, tickets and more information, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

February 2 at 7:05 pm - Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; 15th Anniversary & $5 Night

Chris Gustin & Nancy Train Smith - The Fluidity of Perception

February 3 at 7:05 pm - Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; 15th Anniversary & $5 Night

February 8

Pensacola Ice Flyers Schedule and Theme Nights

February 16 at 7:05 pm - Quad City Storm vs Ice Flyers; Dino Race Night February 17 at 7:05 pm - Quad City Storm vs Ice Flyers; Military Appreciation Night February 18 at 4:05 pm - Quad City Storm vs Ice Flyers; Friends and Family Night

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time February 2-18 Based on the novel of the same name, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a mysterious adventure. Set in England, the story is visually told through the mind of 15-year-old Christopher John Francis Boone, a mathematical genius with an unspecified autism spectrum disorder. Join Christopher investigate the mystery surrounding the death of Wellington, his neighbor’s dog, after he finds the dog speared

In collaboration with the Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society, Pensacola State College will display a collection of artwork from an internationally known artist couple, Chris Gustin and Nancy Train Smith. Through his explorations of form, Chris invites the viewer to seek personal connections to his work, while Nancy utilizes abstracted forms to depict her own perception of the natural world. The exhibit will be on display at the Pensacola State College Charles W. Lamar Studio Gallery. A lecture will be held on February 8 at 5 pm at the Lamar Lecture Hall (Bldg. 1513), with a reception immediately following to be held from 6 to 7:30 pm at the Lamar Studio. For details, visit pensacolastate.edu.

Snowbird Hootenanny @ Flora-Bama February 8 & 22 The Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes all Snowbirds at the Snowbird Hootenanny! There are two remaining

Hootenanny dates for those looking to get down at the Flora-Bama—February 8 and 22. February 8’s Hootenanny theme is “Mardi Gras Mambo,” and attendees are encouraged to wear tons of Mardi Gras beads and laissez les bon temps rouler! On February 22, the Hootenanny theme is “Hawaiian Hoedown,” and attendees are encouraged to wear leis and their best Hawaiian shirt. Both events start at 11 am. There will be plenty of vendors giving away free goodies, along with music, activities and door prize drawings. Food and beverages will be provided by the chefs at the Flora-Bama.

For tickets and more information, visit business. visitperdido.com/events.

Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade February 9 The Krewe of Lafitte will light up downtown Pensacola with their Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade! Parade floats are already impressive, but they look even cooler when they’re completely lit up! This family-friendly event kicks off at 7:30 pm and runs until around 9 pm. Crowds can expect to be entertained by marching bands, lighted floats and great throws. The parade begins at Spring and Garden streets and runs down Palafox through downtown Pensacola. For more information, visit pensacolamardigras.com.

EVENT CALENDAR 6th Annual Joe Relaxo Challenge February 9 The 6th Annual Joe Relaxo Challenge is back at the Hunter Amphitheater at Community Maritime Park. Are you ready to take on the challenge of running for 24 hours? The Joe Relaxo Challenge is to run one mile every 30 minutes for 24 hours. Don’t wanna race solo?

No worries, grab your running buddy and sign up for the 2-person team. Food and hydration will be provided to participants. Packet pickup is from 4 pm to 5:30 pm on site. The challenge begins at 6 pm. To register or learn more, visit runpensacola.com.

Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade February 10 The Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade is annually the largest and most extravagant parade in Pensacola. The parade features a number of Krewes from the area, local organizations, businesses and everything from marching bands to Scout groups. Each year, more than 6,000 individuals participate in the parade, drawing tens of thousands of spectators. The Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade begins at 2 pm and continues until around 7 pm. The parade runs along Palafox

and Garden streets in historic downtown Pensacola. For details and to view a map of the parade route, visit pensacolamardigras.com.

Krewe of Wrecks Mardi Gras Parade February 11 Enjoy a Mardi Gras parade with an island atmosphere at the Krewe of Wrecks Parade.

Grab your beads and wear your best purple, green and gold to Pensacola Beach on February 11 from 2 to 4 pm. This annual parade serves as the last parade of the season and features grand floats, tons of beads, candy and doubloons. Multiple after-parties will be hosted at different venues on Pensacola Beach. The parade route will begin at Avenida 10 and Via DeLuna, runs west and disbands at the Gulfside Pavilion in the Casino Beach parking lot. For parade details, visit pensacolabeachmardigras.com.

Mania The ABBA Tribute February 14 The world’s number one touring ABBA tribute is stopping by the Pensacola Saenger Theatre.

Mania The ABBA Tribute has the look, feel and sound of the ABBA we all know and love. Ever since Mania The ABBA Tribute was

began in 1999, the show has been selling out theaters and concert halls across the globe.

This show has toured the world in its quest to bring the music of the Swedish Supergroup to their millions of fans, old and new. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox Place. Doors open at 7 pm and the show begins at 8 pm. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

3rd Annual Youth Arts Day February 17 Celebrate the arts at the Pensacola Museum of Art! This free community event gives kids the chance to sample the visual and performing arts through various activities. Some of your favorite local arts organizations will be on site featuring short performances throughout the afternoon, including the Pensacola Opera, Pensacola Children’s Chorus, Pensacola Little Theatre, and Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on art activities and a scavenger hunt, as well as the 70th Annual Youth Art Focus exhibition on view throughout the 2nd floor of the museum. This exhibition highlights artwork created by K-12 students and art educators from the Escambia County School District. Events run from 12 pm to 3 pm. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

Featuring designs inspired by Pensacola Opera costumes for iconic opera heroines and curated by local boutiques, models will strut to the powerhouse sound of Rock Me Amadeus LIVE, from New York City where iconic rock and pop songs from your favorite bands from the 70s, 80s, and 90s meld with operatic masterpieces to create an experience unlike any seen in Pensacola. Rock the Runway brings together the worlds of music and fashion in a way that is visually stunning and artistically inspiring.

Tickets and more information at www.pensacolaopera.com or 850.433.6737

EVENT CALENDAR Pensacola Chocolate and Cheese Fest February 18 If you love all things decadent and rich, the Pensacola Chocolate and Cheese Fest is the place for you! The Second Annual Pensacola Chocolate and Cheese Fest will be hosted at Community Maritime Park in downtown Pensacola. The event will feature food trucks and vendors selling a variety of chocolate and cheese items, as well as beverages such as beer, wine, chocolate martinis and more. Be sure to stop by a sampling tent for a bite to enjoy while browsing. In addition to the delectable eats, there will be live entertainment, contests and activities for kids. The event will run from 10 am to 6 pm. There is a $5 entry fee and kids 12 and under are free. For more information, visit apexshowsandevents.com.

Pensacola Opera’s Rock the Runway February 22 Pensacola Opera is pleased to announce its musical fashion-fusion event—Rock the Runway—featuring members of the starstudded show, Rock Me Amadeus Live, from

New York City. On February 22 at Vinyl Music Hall, the fashion runway will be filled with the sound of iconic tunes from your favorite 70s, 80s and 90s bands blended with the melodies of operatic masterpieces. Featuring opera-inspired designs curated by local boutiques, this evening promises to bring together the worlds of music and fashion in a way that is visually and artistically stunning.

All proceeds directly support professional opera performances and education programs that enrich the culture of our community.

Doors open at 6 pm and the show begins at 7 pm. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolaopera.com.

Come From Away February 22 & 23 On 9/11, the world stopped. On 9/12, their stories moved us all. Broadway’s Come From Away takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness

turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.

Come From Away will be performed here in Pensacola on the Saenger Theatre stage on February 22 and 23. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox Place. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the show begins at 7:30 pm. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Keith Sweat: Make It Last Forever Tour February 29 Singer, songwriter and producer, Keith Sweat, is bringing his Make It Last Forever Tour to the Pensacola Bay Center on February 29.

This night will be jam-packed with timeless R&B hits, soulful melodies and an electrifying atmosphere as Sweat is joined by two iconic acts, Tyrese and Pretty Ricky. Doors for the show open at 6 pm and the show begins at 7 pm. The Pensacola Bay Center is located at 201 E. Gregory St. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.

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Gulf Cable/WTEC Breaks Ground on New Facility at Santa Rosa Industrial Park Gulf Cable and parent company WTEC Energy have obtained another 30 acres with plans for expansion.

53

Around the Region Find out what's happening in business, government and cultural news throughout Pensacola and Northwest Florida.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 51

Gulf Cable/WTEC Breaks Ground on New Facility at Santa Rosa Industrial Park

by Morgan Cole

F

irmly rooted as one of the largest manufacturing companies in Northwest Florida, Gulf Cable and its parent company WTEC Energy, have obtained another 30 acres in Santa Rosa County with plans for expansion.

In December 2023, Santa Rosa County officials broke ground on the new facility that will be built on eight acres in the Santa Rosa Industrial Park located at 5689 Industrial Blvd. in Milton, Florida.

Gulf Cable/WTEC currently employs more than 300 individuals in the Santa Rosa Industrial Park. This additional property on Armstrong Road will be used to construct a 160,000-square-foot manufacturing facility that will house and facilitate the growth of their operations.

Within the next three years, if all goes as anticipated, the company will occupy 1.2 million square feet of building space and employ between 600 and 800 people, according to Kevin Bate, the executive president of Gulf Cable’s parent company WTEC Energy.

The company serves diverse markets including renewable (solar and wind), irrigations, electric utility (distribution and transmission), oil and gas (refineries and production) and petrochemical.

52 | FEBRUARY 2024

“Gulf Cable is exactly the kind of company we want to be located in the Industrial Park,” Santa Rosa County Commissioner Bob Cole said. “The company is expanding and hiring more people as they continue to grow. They are the perfect industry for Santa Rosa County.”

“Gulf Cable has been in Santa Rosa County for a number of years now and thanks to the business climate here and the support we receive from the economic development office we are continuing to grow” Executive Vice President, WTEC Energy Innovation Kevin Bate said.

Gulf Cable, which has been in Santa Rosa County since 2006, is a leading manufacturer of insulated, high-voltage cable that is shipped all over the country for use at solar and wind energy generation sites.

Bates explained that the company has manufacturing facilities located across the South, but that this, and will continue to be, their largest. The the company has manufacturing facilities all across the South, however, this is and will continue to be their largest.

With business already booming, Bate has estimated that by 2030 the renewable energy markets his company supports will be spending a total of $5 trillion worldwide.

According to Shannon Ogletree, Executive Director, and Erica Grancagnolo, Associate Director of Santa Rosa County EDO, “Employment at this facility will increase by more than twenty additional people paying a salary of at least $41,000. This is 115 percent of the 2020 Santa Rosa County Average Wage. We anticipate that capital investment at the site will be approximately $3,000,000.

That’s a big win for Santa Rosa County.”

Gulf Cable last expanded its Milton operations in 2021 when it broke ground on a 160,000-square-foot building close to an existing campus. At that time, Bate estimated their company would invest around $3 million and add 20 to 30 employees.

In a statement he made at the groundbreaking, Commissioner Dave Piech said he was very proud of the work done by the Santa Rosa Economic Development Office.

“When it comes to economic development, we can all be very confident that we have the best team on the job,” Piech said. “This is the second major ground breaking we’ve attended in less than a year and I expect there are more to come. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for economic growth in our great county.”

Bate explained that Gulf Cable will also introduce a new product to the market within the coming year that is anticipated to create the need for minimum of an additional 200 new jobs at the facility.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 53

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City of Pensacola Selects Jason Wheeler as Public Information Officer City of Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves announced the hire of Jason Wheeler as Public Information and Strategic Communications Officer.

Wheeler will serve as the official spokesperson for the city while leading the municipality’s strategic communications initiatives.

Wheeler comes to Pensacola after serving more than eight years as the Coordinator of Communications for Flagler County Schools, located on the east coast of Florida. In his role with the school district, he helped lead communication efforts through three hurricanes/tropical storms and the COVID-19 pandemic — including the shutdown and eventual reopening of the district.

“From day one, I’ve stressed communication is paramount to telling our city’s story,” Mayor Reeves said. “Jason’s background is ideal in helping us effectively share with all our stakeholders what we’re trying to do here. He understands much of this lies beyond the walls of City Hall.”

Prior to his role of Coordinator of Communications with Flagler County Schools, Wheeler was a television journalist for 17 years — working in newsrooms in Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Augusta, Georgia; Mobile, Alabama and Orlando, Florida.

Wheeler is a graduate of the University of Alabama, where he majored in Telecommunication and Film as well as Political Science. He’s also an Army veteran, serving as an Army Musician at Fort Benning, Georgia. He’s a current National School Public Relations Association member and has completed Advanced Public Information Officer training with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

As Public Information and Strategic Communications Officer, Wheeler will work under the direction of City Administrator Kerrith Fiddler and Mayor Reeves to lead the Public Information Office, develop communication strategy and unify city branding and messaging.

“I am excited to lead the communication efforts of this growing city,” Wheeler said. “There are so many great stories ready to be told and amazing people to highlight. We will do all we can to show people that Pensacola is one of the best communities to live, work and play.”

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida Awards $18,500 to Non-Profit(s) Improving Rural Communities Farm Credit of Northwest Florida announced a total of $18,500 awarded to five organizations working to improve rural communities within the Florida Panhandle. One recipient was the Waterfront Rescue Mission located in Pensacola, FL, which started in 1949 as a refuge for wayward fishermen and has grown into full-service missions in two cities (Pensacola, FL and Mobile, AL) dedicated to helping lift people out of homelessness, poverty and addiction.

Another recipient was Feeding the Gulf Coast with a Florida Panhandle Branch in Milton, FL. Feeding the Gulf Coast’s vision is a hunger-free central Gulf coast, by providing a wide variety of hunger-relief programs to nourish our communities and establish stronger, healthier families.

Other award recipients include Sleep in Heavenly Peace, the Monticello, FL chapter; Jackson County Jr. Cattlemen’s Association headquartered in Marianna, FL and Second Harvest of the Big Bend headquartered in Tallahassee, FL. “We are delighted to support these outstanding organizations and their work on behalf of the communities in the Pensacola area and surrounding counties,” Farm Credit of Northwest Florida CEO John Gregory said. “I am proud of our employees, who contribute donations that are matched by Farm Credit of Northwest Florida, to provide these staff-nominated awards to worthy recipients. Working together, we can help our communities remain strong and resilient.”

Around the Region Additionally, food collected from the Farm Credit of Northwest Florida Food Drive was provided to Feeding the Gulf Coast and Second Harvest of the Big Bend, with the aim to help restock the shelves of area food banks after the Thanksgiving holiday and provide area families nutritious meals.

This is the 9th year of the Rooted in Giving holiday awards, with more than $104,000 in donations to assist organizations making our local communities better places to live.

University of West Florida and Coastal Alabama Community College Create Transfer Pathways for Nursing and Medical Laboratory Sciences Students The University of West Florida and Coastal Alabama Community College celebrated the launch of a new agreement that facilitates a seamless transition from associate’s degree programs at Coastal Alabama Community College to bachelor’s degree programs in healthcare at UWF at a signing ceremony on Jan. 8 at Coastal Alabama Community College’s Bay Minette campus.

The agreement guarantees acceptance for graduates of the Associate of Applied Sciences in Registered Nursing and AAS in Medical Laboratory Technology programs at Coastal Alabama Community College into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and B.S. in Medical Laboratory Sciences programs, respectively, housed in UWF’s Usha Kundu, MD College of Health.

“We are excited about this opportunity to provide students from Coastal Alabama Community College a smooth transition to degree programs at the University of West Florida,” Dr. David Bellar, dean of UWF’s Usha Kundu, MD College of Health said. “Graduates from these two programs will find a welcoming home in the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health.”

The AAS RN degree prepares students who wish to transfer into the BSN track at UWF and the AAS MLT degree prepares students who wish to transfer into the MLS track at UWF. “We are very proud of this partnership which will allow our students to further their educational attainment on career pathways to indemand occupations along the Gulf Coast,” Interim President of Coastal Alabama Community College Frazier Payne said.

The agreement works to address the growing need for more healthcare professionals in the region. The Florida Center of Nursing estimates a sharp decline in registered nurses by 2025.

"I am excited about this partnership as it provides an opportunity for Coastal AL students to complete a UWF course prior to their graduation with their associates degree,” Crystal Bennett director of UWF’s School of Nursing said.

For more information about UWF’s Usha Kundu College of Health, visit uwf.edu/ukcoh. To learn more about transferring to UWF, visit uwf.edu/transfer.

For more information about Coastal Alabama Community College, visit coastalalabama.edu.

WSRE PBS Follows Gold Star Sons and Daughters in Vietnam In 2017, WSRE PBS first presented The 2 Sides Project, a documentary film that followed American Gold Star sons and daughters on a 2015 trip to Vietnam, where they visited the sites of their fathers’ last known locations and connected with Vietnamese citizens who also lost parents during the Vietnam War.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 55

Around the Region The third such Gold Star group to make this emotional journey, sponsored by the not-for-profit 2 Sides Project, will leave for Vietnam on January 11.

meet children with birth defects caused by Agent Orange, which still pollutes part of the country’s soil and water supply.

In conjunction with the upcoming trip and in partnership with 2 Sides Project, WSRE will rebroadcast The 2 Sides Project documentary at 8 pm on January 9, and at 6 pm. on January 14, and share Facebook posts from the organization’s founder, Margot Carlson Delogne, while with the group is in Vietnam.

The group will also meet sons and daughters of Vietnamese service members killed during the war in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and will pay homage to their own fathers at crash locations near Ho Chi Minh City.

Carlson Delogne is a Gold Star daughter whose father, U.S. Navy pilot Capt. John W. Carlson, was shot down near Bien Hoa on December 7, 1966. He remains missing in action. She will accompany two pairs of American Gold Star siblings in Vietnam for 11 days.

WSRE followers can follow the group in Vietnam via daily posts from Carlson Delogne on the public television station’s Facebook page starting on January 15.

The 2 Sides Project documentary, directed by Anthony Istrico, is available to watch anytime at wsre.org and on the PBS video app.

Mike Walling and Jeff Walling are the sons of a U.S. Air Force pilot, Lt. Col. Charles Walling, who was shot down 35 miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City on August 8, 1966. He was listed as missing in action until 2011, when his remains were positively identified and returned to the United States for burial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Doug Godfrey and Debb Eller are the son and daughter of a U.S. Air Force pilot, Capt. Johnny Howard Godfrey, who crashed on a close air support mission over Sóc Trăng Province on January 11, 1966. He remains unaccounted for.

Led by Carlson Delogne, the group will travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, visiting cultural and historical sites including the Hanoi Hilton, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone that divided the North and the South.

They will attend a memorial ceremony at the temple of the Most Venerable Dr. Thích Thiên Tâm, a leading Buddhist monk and

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ON THE MARKET a Real Estate Section

In This Section 60. By The Numbers A look at December's real estate market highlights

62. The Homebuyers’ Golden Hour Is now the right time to buy?

64. Seven Smart Home Solutions that Enhance Convenience and Security

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 59

BY THE NUMBERS A Look at December's Market Highlights Market Highlights Combined sales improved 7% compared to November.

54

DAYS ON MARKET

For Sale

4Q sales were down 36% compared to the same period last year. Total sales for the year were down 24% from 2022.

310k

MEDIAN SALE PRICE

The average December DOM for residential and condos combined was 54, up nine days from November.

While December's pending sales showed slight improvement compared to November, they were down 40% compared to last December.

214 PENDING SALES

654

NEW RESIDENTIAL LISTINGS 60 | FEBRUARY 2024

Data courtesy of the Pensacola Association of REALTORS ®

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The Homebuyers’ Golden Hour: Is Now the Right Time to Buy?

by Gordon Miles

In recent years, the real estate market has undergone substantial turbulence, with fluctuations in demand and changing interest rates.

A common question has undoubtedly risen for many people contemplating a real estate purchase: is now the right time to buy? In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, the importance of timing cannot be overstated. While some may advocate for a wait-and-see approach, my experience suggests that now is an excellent time for prospective homebuyers to take the leap.

Lowering Interest Rates

A compelling reason to consider purchasing a home now is the ongoing downward trend in interest rates. Rates have begun to decrease, and predictions suggest an additional 2 percent drop in the next 1-2 years. This gives homebuyers the opportunity to take advantage of home prices leveling out, coupled with lighter demand and the potential to refinance at a later time for a more favorable rate.

Capitalizing on this trend aligns with the overall economic landscape, providing potential financial benefits for purchasing now before demand surges with the lower rates again. Recent data also indicates a decrease in inflation, signaling a potential easing of expenses and alleviating some of the financial burdens on buyers, freeing up cash flow.

more options available, homes are taking longer to sell compared to recent years when sellers could dictate terms and buyers rushed to secure properties, sometimes without having enough time to even see the home before signing. This upward trend in available homes allows buyers the convenience of a more relaxed and thoughtful search process.

In Pensacola, for example, the average home sells in 62 days, which is 22 days longer than the fastest median selling time in 2022. This extended timeframe opens the door for buyers to carefully select a qualified real estate agent, explore their home options and find a home that aligns with their lifestyle and long-term plans. However, a properly priced well maintained home can still sell in a few days so always be qualified and ready to write an offer if you see something you like.

Completely Renovated Homes

Another thing to consider is the impact that the pandemic had on homes and home renovations. In response to the unique circumstances of the past few years, homeowners have been investing in their properties at unprecedented levels. The trending quicker home sale is usually the updated home, requiring less work and time then the other properties listed in the marketplace. Renovated kitchen and baths are key items in today's preferred must haves when looking at homes. Unlike in recent years, homebuyers have a unique opportunity to find Steady Sales Times many properties with high-quality finishes An increased inventory in the market is and mechanical upgrades. another factor that makes the current landscape appealing for homebuyers. With In Pensacola, where I operate, the emerging and resilient economy adds another layer of appeal to the current real estate landscape.

This coupled with a large military population, the region has experienced substantial growth over the past decade, with a population now exceeding 500,000. Home prices still increased year-over-year, making it an opportune time to buy in the Gulf Coast and establish a good investment. Our projected market growth remains strong locally and within the state of Florida.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Inflated Builder Costs

With a promising market, there are additional ways for homebuyers to cut costs and get the most for their dollar.

Opting to buy instead of building can be financially beneficial right now, considering the inflated labor and product expenses associated with construction. Choosing an existing home and even remodeling is often more cost efficient and can protect against future inflation, ensuring a fixed price that may increase in value over time in other words embrace that sweat equity mantra for a potential increase in value.

Seize the Moment

It is important to keep in mind that, considering the anticipated trend of lower borrowing costs, potential homebuyers should make their moves sooner rather than later. While the current market favoring a more measured approach, there is an expectation that a more competitive market could return once interest rates drop in the coming year. consider all the facts. Waiting too long might put you back in a market of quick decision-making and contingencies being waved competitive landscape.

Whether you're planning a move, considering your first home purchase or exploring investment opportunities, reach out to a reliable real estate agent who can offer real-time data and insights into the current market. Take this unique opportunity to find your dream home and work with a trusted agent who can help you navigate the market and put together a plan.

Gordon Miles is the President of Levin Rinke Realty in Pensacola Florida. He has led several of the largest real estate firms in the country in the past 30 years, with markets including Palm Springs, Southern California, Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Sedona, Arizona. Under his leadership, his firms grew exponentially year over year, representing hundreds of billions in sales volume. Miles is a licensed real estate broker in multiple states, holding designations such as Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), Graduate REALTOR® Institute (GRI), and Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR). For more information about Gordon Miles and Levin Rinke Realty, visit www.levinrinkerealty.com.

62 | FEBRUARY 2024

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Lennar Homes, LLC, 22118, 1362626. Date 01/24

Seven Smart Home Solutions that Enhance Convenience and Security Devices that allow you to stay connected to your home from virtually anywhere are all the rage. If you're looking to seamlessly integrate innovative solutions into your home for added convenience, security and peace of mind, you'll need smart tech with the right features.

The experts at Masonite, a global industry leader in interior and exterior doors and door systems, share these seven smart home solutions.

Front Door Take your front door to the next level with a high-performance model incorporated with top tech like the Masonite M-Pwr Smart Door, the first residential front door to fully connect to your home's electrical system and wireless internet network.

Homeowners can create a customized welcome-home experience with the door's motion-activated LED welcome lights and a smart lock that recognizes your arrival and automatically unlocks. Whether at home or away, homeowners can use the door's smartphone app to program the lighting, confirm if the door is open or closed with a door state sensor or monitor the entryway with a built-in video doorbell.

Plus, the integrated connection to the home's power means there's no need to charge or replace device batteries, providing peace of mind that you're always connected and protected. Available at The Home Depot, homeowners can select from a range of designs, colors and glass styles all made with the Masonite Performance Door System. The system is designed to protect your home from the elements and provide superior weather resistance, energy efficiency 64 | FEBRUARY 2024

and comfort with premium fiberglass Oven construction, a rot-resistant frame and a Wi-Fi connectivity is the key feature of smart 4-Point Performance Seal so there's no need ovens, improving the cooking experience with to sacrifice style for enhanced performance. increased control. By using an app on your smartphone, you can remotely preheat the Garage Door oven and set timers. You can even cook like Leave behind that nagging feeling that you a pro with models that allow you to import forgot to shut the garage door when you're recipes for automatic temperature control. a block away from home. Smart garage door openers that connect to an app on your Dishwasher phone mean you can always check on the Similar to smart appliances like refrigerators status of your door to ensure it's closed when and ovens, smart dishwashers bring it should be. It provides the added benefit of added convenience to your day along keeping track of who's coming or going while with improved function and efficiency. allowing you to remotely open the door for Connection to Wi-Fi and remote friends, family, neighbors and others who accessibility via smartphone app allow may need access when you're away. you to start wash cycles and check cycle status while away, receive notifications Mirror when detergent is low and more.

Hectic mornings may never completely be a thing of the past, but you can smooth out Washer & Dryer the start to your day with a smart mirror that If laundry feels like a chore, you can make displays important information like weather, it less of a hassle with smart washers and news updates and your schedule. Many dryers that connect to your home Wi-Fi interactive displays allow you to check network. These smart appliances allow notifications and play music for a sleek, you to remotely start and stop washing stylish addition to the bathroom that helps and drying cycles from your smartphone you stay on track and on time. and can send notifications when cycles are finished. Built-in diagnostics send alerts to Refrigerator your phone when there's a malfunction or Smart refrigerators are often inherently it's time for required maintenance. Plus, they newer models, meaning they're typically can help you maximize energy efficiency by more energy efficient to save money on automatically starting a cycle during offelectric bills. With built-in features like peak hours. cameras and sensors that aid in keeping track of grocery lists, they can help reduce masonite.com/mpwr-smart-doors to find food waste by reminding you to consume more innovative solutions. perishables before they spoil. Some models even include an interactive display that lets you watch recipe videos so you can test your skills with a virtual assistant.

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If you have recently been married in or around the Pensacola area and have an interest in appearing on the cover of the annual Weddings issue of Pensacola Magazine, visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2024 and submit up to three high-resolution images of your wedding for a chance to be featured on the next cover!

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