Pensacola • Your City • Your Magazine
March/April 2014
✔ Let’s Do Brunch ✔ Spring Clean ✔ Spruce Up Your Garden ✔ DIY: Upcycling Driftwood
Relax with a good read...
www.ballingerpublishing.com
editor’s note > my two cents on the subject
Good morning, sunshine! As I write this editorial, we’ve had a few days of absolutely perfect spring weather—such a welcome departure from the uncharacteristic winter we had this year. As fun as the “snow” and ice were, I am happy to put the cold behind us and I am looking forward to long, sunny days in the backyard hammock, on the beach, strolling downtown and just enjoying life and our town. Each March we bring out another edition of Pensacola Magazine’s Home and Garden in which we feature a gorgeous local home and lots of great tips for home and yard. This time we had the good fortune of getting to know Tiffiny Weidner and visiting the Weidner’s truly amazing family home. We loved the clean, white color scheme and the unique, personal touches throughout the home and we hope you enjoy a sneak peek into this Pensacola treasure. With spring on the near horizon, it’s time to start thinking about a few spring staples—cleaning, yard work and decorating. We’ve got you covered on three counts in this issue. Johnny Wilding’s humorous romp through the ups and downs of spring’s most famous tradition will inspire you to get your home in tiptop shape and clear away the clutter. Hannah Leyva’s spring gardening trend keeps you up to date on the latest and greatest in lawn and garden ideas and Larsen Lien’s DIY driftwood table “how to” will inspire you upcycle in a way that is truly local. We hope you enjoy all of this and more in this spring issue of Home and Garden. Happy, sunny spring!
Kelly Oden Executive Editor
Pick up any of our magazines at one of these fine locations: Barnes and Noble Ever’man Natural Foods Bookseller 315 W. Garden St. 1200 Airport Blvd. Pensacola, FL 32501 Pensacola, FL 32504 850-438-0402 850-969-9554 Varona’s Airport Gift Shop Family Christian Stores Area Books-A-Million 1520 Airport Blvd. Area Walmart Stores Pensacola, FL 32504 850-474-9324
4
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Subscription Expiration Date is printed on the address label. Renew your subscription now online at www.ballingerpublishing.com: One year $14.95 and two years $22.75.
CONTENTS FEATURE
34.
24. Let’s Do Brunch 26. Spring Clean 28. Spruce Up Your Garden -
2014 Landscaping Trends
31. DIY: Upcycling Driftwood 34. A Modern Classic
DEPARTMENTS 8. PLAY Events & Adventures
12. GIVE Nonprofit News
17. LIVE Art, Music & Culture
22. SHOP
24.
26.
Local Style
46. REPEATS Pensacola Scene
Cover photo by Guy Stevens II
28. 6
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
31.
March/April 2014 PUBLISHER
MALCOLM BALLINGER malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com PM EDITOR
KELLY ODEN kelly@ballingerpublishing.com ART DIRECTOR
RITA LAYMON rita@ballingerpublishing.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
GUY STEVENS, II guy@ballingerpublishing.com EDITOR
EMILY LULLO emily@ballingerpublishing.com BUSINESS EDITOR
JOSH NEWBY josh@ballingerpublishing.com EDITORIAL INTERNS
HANNAN LEYVA • JEANESSA GANTT • LARSEN LIEN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
FAMILY FEATURES SALES & MARKETING
SHARYON MILLER, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 28 sharyon@ballingerpublishing.com BECKY HILDEBRAND, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 31 becky@ballingerpublishing.com
OWNERS
MALCOLM & GLENYS BALLINGER PUBLISHER
MALCOLM BALLINGER • malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR
KELLY ODEN •kelly@ballingerpublishing.com ART DIRECTOR
RITA LAYMON • rita@ballingerpublishing.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
GUY STEVENS II • guy@ballingerpublishing.com EDITOR
EMILY LULLO •emily@ballingerpublishing.com BUSINESS EDITOR
JOSH NEWBY •josh@ballingerpublishing.com SALES & MARKETING SHARYON MILLER, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 28 sharyon@ballingerpublishing.com SIMONE SANDS, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 21 simone@ballingerpublishing.com BECKY HILDEBRAND, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 31 becky@ballingerpublishing.com WEBSITE:
WWW.BALLINGERPUBLISHING.COM
EDITORIAL OFFICES 41 NORTH JEFFERSON STREET, SUITE 402 PENSACOLA, FLORIDA 32502 850-433-1166 • FAX 850-435-9174
PUBLISHED BY BALLINGER PUBLISHING:
Member of:
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. © 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
7
PLAY
An Interview with Cirque du Soleil’s Oleksandr Romashyn, a straps artist from the Ukraine.
Cirque du Soleil is well known for creating over the top fantasy worlds and then filling them a whimsical story that’s told through, live music, amazing feats and dazzling performances. The Pensacola Bay Center will play host to the artistic mix of circus and street performance March 19-23 for a show called Varekai. Set in a mysterious forest at the summit of a volcano, Varekai tells the tale of a solitary man called Icarus who is parachuted from above into the forest, and the strange creatures and characters he meets. Those characters are played by talented performers from countries all over the world, from jugglers and contortionists to aerialists and strong men. PM had the chance to have a Q&A with one performer for this upcoming show about the unique nature of his work and life with the Cirque. What is your part in Cirque du Soleil Varekai? My act is called Aerial Straps. I basically suspend myself from a strap with one hand, performing tricks and maneuvers. I perform this with my partner, Oleksii Kozakov. My character is not quite a bird but resembling of one and represents the protectors of the forest. He is the symbol of force, protection, balance and royalty. Tell me a bit about your background and how you got into cirque performance. I started many years ago in a circus studio when I was around 8 years old where I was introduced to acrobatics, juggling, hand balancing and several different disciplines. After a few years, I moved to Kiev and went to Circus College. At 10 years old, I started training on straps and two years after that, I decided along with the support of my coach to focus on this discipline. He
8
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Oleksandr Romashyn
paired me up with Oleksii then and we created a synchronized duo straps act. After Circus College, Cirque du Soleil was holding castings every year in Kiev at that time and we did an audition and they placed us in their bank of artists. About three years after our audition, we got a call and they asked us to be a part of Varekai. What is your physical fitness regimen like to stay in form for shows? I do a mix of cardio and weight lifting in a week. I do a mix of bicycle, running and jump rope for cardio for approximately 30 minutes each, so that’s 1.5 hours of cardio per week, which is enough for me. I do a lot of muscle building activities like push-ups with weights, bench press, shoulder presses, basically exercises to work my upper body as this is what I need for my act. I will do weight lifting another four times per week I understand performers apply their own makeup. What is your makeup like and how long does application take for you? When I put on my makeup it’s a powerful transformation that happens. I start to get into character and prepare myself mentally for my performance on stage. Going back to what my character represents, which is the protector of this enchanted forest, the make-up is reflected accordingly. The lines are not strong but neutral to represent protection and the colors used; blue to symbolize softness and gentleness and the gold for royalty. It takes anywhere from 40 minutes on a good day and one hour on a slow one. What is daily life like traveling with Cirque du Soleil and living in this environment on tour? I like it a lot. We move around every week and it’s very mentally stimulating. Each week you need to understand your surroundings, where is the nearest grocery store, where is the hotel, where is the arena and I love this part. It forces me to get out of my comfort zone. The downside is having to pack my luggage every week! I’ve now learned to not unpack so much! What is your favorite thing about being a part of this show? It’s so many things. But the thing I love the most is that moment when I’m sitting under the stage, right before I go on stage; the adrenaline is rushing and I’m psyching myself out to go out and give my best. When I’m on stage, I only live in that moment; the present moment. I don’t worry about the future or the past. I am only thinking of right now.
A Place Plac l ce for for You You in Pensacola Peensacola Pen Busine Business e
Vacation
Extended d St Stay
Pensacola Do Downtown ow wnto own w
Ch hase Str 85
700 East Chase Street 850-439-3330 courttya ardpensacoladowntown.com
Airport/Cordova Airport/Cordo ova Mall
2187 Airport Boulevard 850-478-1123 hamptoninnpensacolaairport.com
1144 Airport Boulevard 850-479-8900 hiltongardeninnpensacola.com
5049 Corporate Wo oods Drive 850-474-3777 homewoodsuitespensacola.com
Pensacola Beach
16 Viia DeLuna 800-934-3301 850-934-3300 dayyssinnpensacolabeacch h.com
850-932-9314 • Hiighpointe.com
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
9
Courtesy of T.T. Wentworth Museum
Courtesy of McGuires Irish Pub
PLAY McGuire’s 37th Annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K Prediction Run March 8 All are invited to participate in McGuire’s annual prediction run, the largest of its kind in the country and a Pensacola tradition. The 5K course starts and ends at the famous pub and can be either walked or run. After a 9 am start time, a post-race party will greet the finishers, and awards will be given out to race winners as well as to those who come closest to their prediction time. It costs $30 for pre-registration and $35 for race-day sign up. Visit www.mcguiresirishpub.com for more information.
March 22 Dr. Della Scott-Ireton of the Florida Public Archaeology Network will be presenting about the history and archaeology of Pensacola Bay shipwrecks. The event will be held inside the Fort Pickens Auditorium at 10:30 am on Saturday, March 22, and while the presentation itself is free, entrance to the Fort Pickens area costs $8. Visit www.nps.gov/guis or call the Naval Live Oaks Visitor Center at (850) 9342699 for more information.
Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Company’s Slap Schtick Camp
Rage 5K
March 18-19 Students who have an interest in Shakespearean insults and stage fighting are invited to join the Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Company’s two-day Slap Schtick Camp. It will be held at Cokesbury United Methodist Church, located at 3300 Summit Blvd., from 9 am – 4 pm on March 18 and 19. Tuition is $80 and students should pack a lunch. More information can be found at www.setsco.org.
March 22 A night run, walk and dance will be making its way through downtown Pensacola on March 22. Participants will encounter three Rage stations along the 5K course where they can dance and party with DJs and glow sticks. There will also be dance and glow parties before and after the race at the Pensacola Maritime Park Amphitheater. Registration starts at $20. Visit www.rage5k.com for more information.
Tour de Fort March 20 Gulf Islands National Seashore and the Florida Public Archaeology Network are hosting a bicycle tour along the Florida National Scenic Trail near Fort Pickens. The event begins at 10 am on Thursday, March 20 at the Fort Pickens Auditorium for a short program prior to the four-mile, two-hour-long bike ride. The tour is free, but entrance to Fort Pickens is $8. Participants must bring their own bicycle and helmet as well as plenty of water and sunscreen. Call (850) 934-2600 or visit www.nps.gov/guis for more information.
10
Shipwrecks of Pensacola Bay
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
‘Elton John-Million Dollar Piano’ Movie Preview Screening March 14, 18 and 26 If you missed Elton John’s spectacular Million Dollar Piano revue at the Colosseum in Las Vegas, now’s your chance to see it in Pensacola. Elton John-The Million Dollar Piano—the movie—is debuting and will play for two days only—March 18 and March 26 at Dollarhide’s Music. Dollarhide’s Music is inviting area Elton fans to an exclusive free screening of a 20-minute, behind-thescenes look at the making of the film and the piano, during a special wine and cheese night Friday March 14 at 7 pm. As a special bonus, fans will also be treated to a 35-minute segment from Yamaha’s 125th Anniversary Dealer Concert—an event that featured Sir Elton performing on the Yamaha Disklavier with a 60-piece orchestra. Elton John has wowed audiences with his lavish Million Dollar Piano revue at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, a persistent sellout event since its debut September 2011. This new movie brilliantly captures the spectacular concert experience and includes all of Elton’s greatest hits, including “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting,” “I’m Still Standing,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” “Crocodile Rock,” and “Your Song.” The centerpiece of the performance is the show’s namesake “Million Dollar Piano,” a one-of-a-kind engineering marvel. The state-of-theart instrument was a collaboration between Sir Elton and Yamaha Entertainment Group of America, and features more than 68 LED video screens that display mesmerizing imagery to complement each of the show’s iconic songs. Seating to this exclusive sneak peek at Dollarhide’s Music is limited. Call for reservations: (850) 494.9898.
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
11
GIVE
Appetite 4 Art Raises Hunger Awareness By Hannah Leyva
American Beauty Location: Timothy D. Ludvigsen’s Studio Photographer: Greg Riegler
Model: Camille Dauchez Costumes: Appetite 4 Life
Food and art often go hand in hand, and local nonprofit Appetite 4 Life has taken it to a new level with their hunger awareness initiative called Appetite 4 Art. The project, funded through a grant from the Greater Gulf Coast Arts Festival, is made up of photographs based on iconic movies, television shows, musicals, and books with a creative twist. Instead of using normal, everyday objects, food is incorporated into the sets in a big way. While recreating the famous poster for the movie American Beauty, for instance, 200 pounds of red cabbage leaves were used to cover the model instead of red rose petals. “We peeled them by hand, piece by piece,” said Appetite 4 Life Executive Director Celeste Southard, who is overseeing the whole project and has been at every shoot so far. “The stain didn’t come out (of my skin) for a week.” Some themes lent themselves very easily to edible props, such as Marie Antoinette’s Let Them Eat Cake (the very first shoot), Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (featuring Pensacola’s first lady and professional model An Hayward as Willy Wonka), and Sweeney Todd (shot in Appetite 4 Life’s own kitchen).
12
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Willy Wonka 4/16/13 Location: 511 Palafox Photographer: Evelyn Chauvin Savage Costumes: Randall’s Formal Wear (Tuxes) Models: An Hayward, Mia
Southard Jewelry: Kathleen Nowak Tucci Hat: Corinne Jo Swatzina Behind the Scenes Photographer: James Amerson
Others were a little more difficult and required more creativity. Marilyn Monroe’s iconic pose from The Seven-Year Itch was one such challenge. Instead of wearing a white dress made out of cloth, the model had a mixture of water, flour, and starch poured over her several times to get different effects. The final photo is a blend of different shots, the only one out of the whole project that was digitally manipulated. Another shoot that involved food in an unexpected way was that for the hit TV show Dexter. The bodies that are the focus of the eponymous main character, a forensic expert and secret serial killer, were replaced with watermelons and other red fruits and vegetables to recreate the look of blood spatter. “We did a little splatter at a time. We couldn’t clean it up, we just had to build on the mess,” said Appetite 4 Life Catering Assistant Davie Wass, who portrayed Dexter in the photo shoot. “It was such a fun play on it. I was very excited to be involved.” Appetite 4 Art involves local models, photographers, and artists as well as volunteers from the A4L organization. Though Southard and her team give their ideas and input, they prefer to not control things too much.
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party 10/23/13 Location: Shirley & Earl Watson’s Creole Cottage Photographer: James Amerson Make-up & Hair: James Amerson & Lauren Mitchell Costumes: Glen Breed, owner Wardrobe Witchery, Jason Estale Models: Celeste Southard, Lauren Mitchell, Joey Bourgeois, Amanda “Lexy Booshay” Warren Marie Antionette 4/7/13 Location: Timothy D. Ludvigsen’s Studio Photographer: Greg Riegler Costumes: Kathryn Miller Model: Camille Dauchez
Dexter 09/26/13 Location: Port of Pensacola-Amy Miller, Port Director Photographer: Blake Jones Model: Davie Wass
Costume: Blake Jones, Appetite 4 Life Behind the Scenes Photographer: Jessica Patton
“We want to give the artists as much flexibility as they need,” Southard said. The project is divided into two phases. Phase one, which has just been completed with The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party starring Southard herself as the main character, included 11 photo shoots and will be on display in front of A4L’s headquarters on Cervantes. It will then move on to different galleries at Pensacola State College, the University of West Florida and elsewhere. The photos will be printed on 3-foot by 4-foot banners made out of vinyl to increase their longevity. “In a lot of cities they’ve been doing murals” to promote awareness of different things, said Southard. “But those wear down and fade after a few years.” Shooting for Phase two will commence later this month thanks to an anonymous donor who matched the amount received through the grant. The themes will be a bit “edgier,” according to Southard, with shoots for Beetlejuice and The Rocky Horror Picture Show coming up soon. After all the shots are ready to be
Sweeney Todd 04/13/13 Location: Appetite 4 Life Commercial Kitchen Photographer: Blake Jones Make-up & Hair: Sarah Peake, Maxine “Madd”
Maxx, Cathy Shelton Costumes: Glen Breed Models: Errin Green, Jessica Patton Behind the Scenes Photographer: James Amerson
displayed, Southard said they’ll divide the galleries into two sections, with one being more family-friendly and the other catering mostly to adults. The project shows how far Appetite 4 Life has come since a massive fire destroyed their kitchen in August of 2011. Though an idea similar to this was discussed before the fire, execution wasn’t possible until after the kitchen was rebuilt and the grant was won. “After the project was put on hold, we were able to revisit the idea, add to it and make it more artistic,” Southard said. “We wanted to raise hunger awareness issues, but it’s hard to get people to go look at pictures of hungry people.” Though Appetite 4 Art has involved both lots of hard work and lots of fun, Southard doesn’t want the message they’re trying to send or the people they’re serving to get lost in it all. “It really is about the area, the problems in the area, the community, and the people in the community,” she said. “It’s the community that’s always supported us.” March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
13
GIVE
Smokin’ Cornhole Tournament March 8 Kaboom Sports & Social Club and Pensacola Bay Brewery are teaming up to host this year’s Smokin’ Cornhole Tournament at noon at the Smokin’ in the Square BBQ Cook-off. Registration is $40 for each team of two, and the teams are separated into the Rookies or Masters division to compete for cash prizes and trophies. All proceeds will benefit The Child Guardians and Family Resource Program of Santa Rosa. Sign ups can be done online at www.kaboomssc.com/tournaments or in person the day of the tournament.
Relay for Life and Animal Rescue Adoption Event March 9 The Pensacola Humane Society and other rescue groups will be holding a pet adoption event on Sunday, March 9 from 11 am – 4 pm at Hampton Inn and Suites, Pensacola Beach. In addition to learning and meeting some loveable, adoptable pets, there will be lots of family fun, such as face painting, kite flying and a bouncy house. Call the Humane Society at (850) 432-4260 or visit www.pensacolahumane.org for more information.
Special Olympics 2014 County Summer Games
PLT Guild’s Card Party March 11 Join the Pensacola Little Theatre Guild for a few games of bridge, trump, dominoes and more at their card party fundraiser on Tuesday, March 11 from 10 am – 2 pm. There will also be door prizes and a 50/50 drawing. Tickets cost $25 and include all the games, a buffet lunch and beverages. RSVP by contacting either Connie Vance at (850) 458-6548 or Toni Kirkman at (850) 434-7979.
“Cabaret,” Pensacola Little Theatre’s Annual Fundraising Party
March 15 Come cheer on over 50 local athletes as they compete in different sports such as volleyball, tennis, track and field and more. Opening ceremonies start at 9 am at the track at Naval Air Station Pensacola, when the lighting of the torch will occur. Athletes who qualify will move on to the Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games, held each May at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando. The event is free and open to the public. More information about the games can be found at www.specialolympicsflorida.org/escambia.
Shop the Latest Trends While Supporting a Great Local Cause These events support programs and services provided by Baptist Hospital and Baptist Health Care to improve the quality of life of the communities we serve. Baptist Hospital Volunteer Services $5 Masquerade™ Jewelry and Accessories Sale Thurs., March 27, 7 am to 5 pm Fri., March 28, 7 a.m. to 5 pm Baptist Hospital, Heritage Room, 1000 West Moreno St. For more information call 850-434-4936.
March 29 The fundraiser that calls itself Pensacola’s most popular party will be held on March 29 at 7 pm at the Pensacola Little Theatre. This year’s theme is “Circus Nouveau.” Five themed areas featuring food, drinks, live entertainment and carnival games will be spread out both indoors and outdoors throughout the venue. Tickets cost $50 ($75 with a bar wristband) and can be purchased at the PLT’s box office or online at www.pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Baptist Health Care Foundation Sterling Silver and Fashion Jewelry Fundraiser Mon., March 31, 8 am to 5 pm and 8-9:30 pm Tues., April 1, 8 am to 3 pm Baptist Hospital, Heritage Room, 1000 West Moreno St. For more information call 850-469-7419. Wed., April 2, 8 am to 3 pm Baptist Medical Park, 9400 University Pkwy., Azalea Room For more information call 850-469-7419. Cash, checks and most major credit cards accepted.
14
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Volunteers can learn how to help victims of fires, crimes, wrecks and other tragedies You can learn how to help victims of crimes, house fires, car wrecks and other life-changing events. A training program will be held in Pensacola beginning at 6 p.m. April 3 for people interested in becoming volunteers with Trauma Intervention Programs, which teaches citizens how to give emotional and practical support to traumatized people immediately after tragedy strikes. The classes will be held at the Pensacola Police Department, 711 N. Hayne St. The course, which takes 30-plus hours, covers such topics as “Dealing with Death,” “Street Smarts” and “Working with Emergency Responders.” It concludes April 12. TIP volunteers respond to calls from hospital personnel, police officers, firefighters, and paramedics day or night. They help family members confronted with natural or unexpected deaths; crime victims; disoriented or lonely older persons; victims of vehicle accidents; and anyone emotionally traumatized by a crisis event. Volunteers range in age from teens to senior citizens. More than 30 volunteers participate in the program, but more are needed. For more information, visit www.tip-ser.org or call (850) 612-1068.
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
15
16
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 29 and 30
L IV E
Gulf Breeze Celebrates the Arts Festival
By Jeanessa Gantt
The 20th Annual Gulf Breeze Celebrates the Arts Festival will take place on March 29 and 30 in the parking lot of Gulf Breeze High School. This year’s event is expected to be one of the best Gulf Breeze has had since the festival began. The juried fine arts and crafts festival is family friendly, free to the public and will feature over 150 artists presenting an extensive range of artistic mediums, including oils and acrylics, watercolor, graphics, ceramics and pottery, photography, jewelry, mixed media, glass, fiber and leather, wood, and others. The festival is hosted by the City of Gulf Breeze and Gulf Breeze Arts Incorporated (GBAI), a local nonprofit organization that seeks to support growth and knowledge of the arts within the community, spotlight the area as the Panhandle hub for “lovers of the arts” and provide encouragement for budding new artists. In addition to showcasing spectacular artwork, Gulf Breeze Celebrates the Arts Festival helps to ensure that the arts have a bright future in the area. Proceeds from the annual festival fund an endowment to provide scholarships for art students at Pensacola State College and donations to art programs at local public schools. According to Festival Director Sherri Chambers, festival donations often make up a great portion of the schools’ art budgets and directly impact the quality of art the young students are able to create. “These days, with the budgets being cut, art’s always the first thing to go,” said Chambers “We want to keep art within the schools. We don’t ever want to see it to go away entirely.” Since this is the festival’s 20th anniversary, GBAI wanted to bring something special to the event. “There will be just a little more of everything. It’s our 20th annual event and a special year for us,” said Chambers. So whether you’re a first time attendee or you’ve been going to the festival for years, art lovers of all ages will experience something new at this year’s event. Gulf Breeze Celebrates the Arts Festival attracts some of the best artists from the region and across the United States. A jury
of local fine arts professionals selected the artists who would be invited to participate in this year’s festival. Their artwork will be judged during the festival by Carrie Ann Baade, assistant professor of Painting and Drawing at Florida State University. Baade is known for her autobiographical oil paintings which represent allegorical narratives inspired by literature and art history, and she has recently held solo exhibitions in Philadelphia, Los Angeles and China. It seems Baade may have her work cut out for her, too. Chambers says this year’s artists are some of the best the festival has had. Some artists will be coming from as far away as Massachusetts and California to showcase their masterpieces, while others with more regional acclaim will be there as well. The festival will also be welcoming back award winners from last year’s festival, including Best of Show 2013 winner Lin Martinique-Whittaker, Photography winner Don Grannan, and Jewelry winner Becky Makla, just to name a few. Doug Odom and AB Word, two Best of Show winners from previous years, will participate as well. This year’s winners will be announced at a special awards banquet for all participating artists on March 29 with GBAI members, city officials, and other distinguished guests. Festival goers will also want to stop by the GBAI member show and sale to find even more excellent artwork. The show will take place in the Gulf Breeze High band room and will feature the works of talented GBAI members, many of whom are awardwinning artists and well known in the local arts community. Food and entertainment will also be in abundance at this year’s festival. Food vendors representing all kinds of cuisine will be serving a wide variety of food and beverages to keep festival attendees satisfied as they enjoy performances by Sweet Prospect Celtic Band, McGuire’s Pipe Band, Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Company and Oriole Beach 5th Grade Chorus. To keep younger art lovers engaged, there will be a student art display and fun children’s activities.
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
17
L IV E
PLT Cabaret Circus Nouveau March 29
The outlandish sights and lavish styles under the big top have prompted many to dream of running away with the circus. This month you can do just that—for one night at least. Pensacola Little Theatre will once again host its annual extravaganza Cabaret, and this year the incarnation will embody the glamour and mystery of Circus Nouveau. On Saturday, March 29 at 7 pm a carnival of delights will take over the historic Pensacola Cultural Center, transforming several areas into elaborate party rooms, each taking on an aspect of the central theme. The entryway in the spacious atrium will host talented aerialists who will be twisting and contorting from a contraption suspended from the ceiling. Dancers and other entertainers will beckon attendees further into the party. Each area will have its own bar with signature beverages as well as snacks. The party will spill out onto the outdoor Terrazza facing Zaragossa Street, where the event will have a lively feel. “Outside is going to be Midway at the Carnival, so there will be carnival games, barkers and all of that type thing,” says PLT marketing and PR director Mike Dinwiddie. Barkers will call for guests to try their hand at games of skill and chance like ring toss and cornhole, or to take a seat at the poker table. Live music from Rowdies Rock will fill the dancefloor and guests can catch a glimpse of bodypainted models or be entertained by burlesque dancer Roxie LaRouge. Snacks of carnival fare like barbecue, corn dogs or cotton candy will be available as well.
18
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
The festivities will continue upstairs in a rehearsal hall which will be decked out in a vaudevillian style. Drag performers will be center stage for several shows throughout the night, which are always a popular showpiece for the event. While cocktail or casual attire are perfectly acceptable, traditionally many Cabaret guests enjoy dressing the part. The cirque theme can inspire a wide array of garb for the night, from showgirl to lion tamer to anything in between, though Dinwiddie encourages guests to ante up the style factor since this will be no ordinary circus. “Think avant garde circus, so anything from a mime to more crazy and colorful things like jewel toned Cirque du Soleil, Mardi Gras, or ringmaster,” he says. Tickets are $50 for admission and $25 for bar wristband, which gives attendees as many drinks from the bars in each room as they’d like. There are also hors d’oeuvres and other refreshments for guests, and a late night buffet in the atrium will cap off the night. Dubbed Pensacola’s most popular party, Cabaret routinely tops the charts for a night on the town in Pensacola, complete with games, dancing, shows and always some unexpected surprises. With a talented cast of volunteers and organizers creating an over the top night of high-flying excitement in support of PLT and its many programs, this event is not to be missed. For tickets and more information visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.
PLT’s 24 Hour Theatre March 8 PLT’s Studio 400 Production of 24 Hour Theatre is back. Actors will audition on Friday, March 7 starting at 8 pm for the five oneact plays that will be performed the next day. The playwrights will then spend the night at the theatre writing, and the directors and cast arrive in the morning to rehearse. Will they be ready by Saturday night’s 8 pm show time? Tickets are $10 and can be bought online at www.pensacolalittletheatre.com or at the PLT Box Office.
Monster Jam March 7 – 8 The biggest performers on four wheels will be roaring into the Pensacola Bay Center on March 7 and 8. The stars of As Big as it Gets Monster Jam are 12 feet tall and weigh 10,000 pounds, allowing them to plow through the obstacle courses set before them. More information about the event and ticket prices can be found at www.pensacolabaycenter.com.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast March 14 The hit Broadway musical will be returning to Pensacola on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 pm for one night only. Based on the Disney animated film, the live-action show brings fan-favorite songs and scenes to the stage at the Saenger Theatre, complete with dazzling sets and lavish costumes. Watch and sing along with Belle, the Beast, and all their companions. More information can be found at www.pensacolasaenger.com.
Ballet Pensacola presents Timeless March 14 & 15, 21 &22 Ballet Pensacola will be performing pieces from several classic ballets in their program, Timeless. Dancers will grace the Pensacola Cultural Center’s main stage with their renditions of Pas de deux from The Black Swan, Don Quixote, and more. The work of Lauren Edson, the 2013 Ballet Pensacola Choreography Competition winner, will also be featured. Program and ticket information can be found at www.balletpensacola.com or www.pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Elton John: All the Hits
UWF Chamber Music Faculty Recital
March 16 Legendary entertainer Elton John and his band will be returning to the Pensacola Bay Center on Sunday, March 16 at 8 pm. The concert, called All the Hits, will feature classics from his five-decades-long career as well as new tracks from his latest album, The Diving Board, which came out last fall. Tickets can be purchased online through Ticketmaster or at the Pensacola Bay Center Box Office.
March 17 UWF’s Department of Music presents a chamber music faculty recital featuring Professor Lynne Lauderdale as well as many other guest artists. The show starts at 7:30 pm on Monday, March 17 at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts on UWF’s main campus. The event is free and open to the public. March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
19
Pick up a Gosport. Like over 25,000 people do every week.
Ballinger Publishing 41 N. Jefferson St., Ste. 402 Pensacola, Florida 32502 850-433-1166
Cirque du Soleil: Varekai March 19 – 23 World-famous performance company Cirque du Soleil is coming to Pensacola with their new arena show, Varekai. The show tells the story of a young man’s journey through a magical world in the middle of a forest called Varekai, which means “wherever” in the Romany language of the gypsies. Stunning sets and dazzling acrobatics, the signatures of Cirque du Soleil, will be sure to delight Gulf Coast residents. Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased at the Pensacola Bay Center Box Office, Ticketmaster outlets, or online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/ varekai. 20
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Pensacola Opera presents Cinderella March 21 & 23 Pensacola Opera’s debut production of Gioachino Rossini’s Cinderella (La Cenerentola) will be presented at the Saenger Theatre on Friday, March 21 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, March 23 at 2 pm. Rossini’s comedic twist on the classic fairytale will be performed in his native Italian with English supertitles. Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased by calling (850) 433-6737 or online at www.pensacolaopera.com.
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
21
22
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
23
Courtesy of Family Features
Let’s Do
Brunch
Weekends and brunch just seem to go together, but who says they have to come together at a restaurant? Hosting family and friends in the comfort of your home for this ultimate weekend meal can be a breeze. Brunch doesn’t need to be fancy or fussy. All you need is a couple of easy-to-prepare dishes and drinks to serve outdoors on the deck, around the dining room table or in the kitchen – it’s your call.
smoothies. By using an all-natural warm water bath pasteurization process, the risk of salmonella is eliminated without affecting the nutrition, flavor or cooking properties. So it’s safe to enjoy runny yolks because the eggs are pasteurized. Safest Choice eggs are hormone and antibiotic-free, vegetarianfed and Kosher. And each egg is stamped with a red “circle P” to identify that it has been pasteurized by the company’s patented process.
Serve up a stylish spread Whatever your style, it’s a good bet that eggs will be part of the menu. Impress guests with a clever twist – combine two morning favorites, strata and baked eggs. The strata layer – bread, cheese and herbs – is nestled underneath two gentlybaked eggs in ramekins lined with prosciutto or ham. It’s easy to assemble and the result is impressive, both in looks and flavor. With Safest Choice Pasteurized Eggs, you no longer need to be concerned about serving eggs gently-cooked, such as sunnyside-up, poached or soft-boiled. There’s also no need to worry about the use of raw eggs in homemade mayo, cookie dough or
Simple, flavorful additions Serving is no-fuss. Each guest gets an individual ramekin, so there’s no dishing up at the last minute. Accompaniments can be as simple as a mixed greens salad, a platter of seasonal fruits and favorite brunch cocktails. Of course, there must be plenty of great coffee, too. Enjoy these tasty stratas worry free since: pasteurized = peace of mind.
24
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
For additional recipes for every season and occasion, or to learn more about Safest Choice Pasteurized Eggs, visit www.SafeEggs.com.
Individual Cheese & Herb Stratas Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Makes: 4 servings -8 thin slices prosciutto or deli ham -2 cups French or Italian bread pieces (1-inch pieces) -2 tablespoons melted butter -1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (see note) -1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (see note) -8 Safest Choice Pasteurized Eggs -Salt -Coarse ground black pepper -Minced bell pepper (optional) -Chopped fresh herbs (optional) Preheat oven to 400째F. Butter bottom and sides of four 10 to 12 ounce ramekins or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Line each ramekin with 2 slices prosciutto or ham with some extending over sides. In large bowl, toss bread pieces and melted butter together. Stir in cheese and herbs. Divide mixture evenly among ramekins pressing down lightly. Break 2 eggs into each ramekin. Add salt and pepper, as desired. Sprinkle bell pepper around eggs, if desired. Place ramekins on rimmed baking sheet. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until whites are set and yolks begin to firm, or to desired doneness. Garnish with additional herbs, if desired. Notes: Other cheeses, such as cubed mozzarella or Cheddar, may be substituted for goat cheese.One or a combination of herbs such as basil, rosemary, thyme, chives or parsley may be used.
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
25
g By Johnny Wilding
It was one of those lazy Saturdays: I had the house to myself and it was a nice slow morning for a change. I thought I would treat myself to a special little brunch. Still in my sloppy T-shirt and favorite sweatpants, I casually strolled into the kitchen, shopped through the fridge, then checked the oven for pots before pre-heating. I let out an audible yelp as I slammed closed the oven door. I was confused. How could something so dazzling on the outside be so, so ugly inside? I was doubting the horror I had just witnessed. I had to reassure myself I wasn’t hallucinating. How could this have happened? It was a self-cleaning oven after all. Why wasn’t the oven clean? With great trepidation, I slowly opened the oven door again and cautiously peeked inside. Nope, I wasn’t crazy. The oven was bad, really bad! It was right then and there I decided it was that time. Yes, spring cleaning had crept up yet again. 26
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
before moving on to the next. A bit tedious, but I started to get this “Zen vibe” going on as I neared the finishing point. I went back to the stove to actually use the self-clean option. I nearly lost that good feeling when I inadvertantly changed the language on my stove to a foreign one. I simply decided to deal with it later, then went back to cleaning the last room on my list. A few hours of my life had passed and I was a bit weary from my labors. The house looked great and smelled good. Most importantly though, it felt good. I have decided that though the reasons have changed throughout the millenia, spring cleaning is a tradition that should not be forsaken. It isn’t just a chore. No, it is more, much more. It is also a cleaning of the spirit. Maybe the “ancients” had it right from the beginning after all. I felt like I had cleaned out the old and now have room for new growth. Whatever the reason, some traditions like spring cleaning remain deep and true — a worldwide practice that some even do twice a year. I have but one more task in order to complete my own complete personal “khooneh takouni. “ My efforts to find a Turkish speaking housekeeper to come turn my oven on have been futile. So with cool drink in hand I am now casually thumbing through an appliance catalog searching for a voice command model. Nothing could go wrong there....right?
About the author: Pensacola resident Johnny Wilding is owner of “Man Maid,” an upstart company specializing in detailed, deep-cleaning residential and commercial custodial services. “Get it Man Maid clean” 850-607-6361 / manmaidpensacola@gmail.com
A holiday of sorts that dates back to the earliest traditions of civilized man, the true origins of the practice are unknown. Most early references suggest religious overtones. The ancient Greek civilization had their Great Lent. That culminates to “Lambri or Pasca,” the most celebrated holiday even to this day by the Greek Orthodox faith. Then there is the Persian “Nouroz” celebration around the same time. The act of cleaning is called “khooneh takouni” or “shaking the house.” The Jewish celebration of “Pasch” involves an extreme detailing to one’s home. Even early Christians practiced a week long cleaning before or during the first week of “Lent.” All suspiciously around the same time as our great American purge. Being from the “rotary dial” generation, I was and still am confounded by all the buttons on the stove. I am beginning to get a complex because I think it may be smarter than I am. As I stared into the dark abyss of dinners past, I realized I never used the oven during the day. Only in the shadows of dinner time did I venture there. This was not good. No, not good at all. I knew that I couldn’t use heavy cleaners on the surface as such cleaners are very detrimental to the oven’s special coatings. So, with a great sigh, I wiped up the debris covered bottom and applied tomato and lemon juice to soften the remaining grease. I continued cleaning the rest of my house as my juice soaked oven sat in natural acids. As I did so though, I kept asking myself if this was really necessary? This whole clean the house from top to bottom thing? I can see where the American origins possibly came from. People used to shutter up their houses for the winter and heated and cooked with wood and coal stoves. The soot and dust generated after a few months of this were a tragedy to both home and health. Spring cleaning was a must. Today we have ever more efficient ways of doing things. So why was I up on a ladder cleaning fan blades? House work isn’t an easy job. If you don’t sweat when you’re doing it, then you are not doing it right. Barbara Billingsley was the only one that never perspired doing house work. How did she do it? (Rotary Dial thing) I just kept churning it over and over as I went back to wipe down the oven with a water/vinegar mix, then let it dry. I had been cleaning the house one room at a time — finishing each room completely
Johnny’s Tips for Spring Cleaning 1. Always clean during daylight hours. It is easier to see into those dark corners. 2. Do not use heavy cleaners on self cleaning ovens. The surfaces can become ruined. 3. Use fruit acids as a natural and gentle degreaser. Splash a little lemon in your dish washer as well. 4. Use a ladder to reach high places. Chairs are for butts, not feet. 5. Clean each room completely before going on to the next. 6. Always, always clean from top to bottom 7. Don’t buy appliances with a higher IQ than you. It could get confusing. Just ask Johnny. March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
27
Spruce Up Your Garden – 2014 Landscaping Trends By Hannah Leyva
Spring is nearly upon us, which means many people are turning their attention to their outdoor spaces. While some like to keep their yards simple, others look to invest time and money into beautifying their property. Whether you’re looking to create your own version of the Garden of Eden or just trying to amp up your curb appeal, here are some landscaping trends that are hot in 2014.
28
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Regional Gardening As we hear more about climate change and experience more extreme weather phenomena, regional gardening has become more popular, particular in drought-riddled areas of the country. Scientists and professional landscape designers have pushed towards planting more native species in home gardens so as to reduce the negative environmental impact some non-native species can have, and it seems people are listening. Thanks to Northwest Florida’s diverse landscapes (beaches, swamps, forests, etc.), there is a wide range of native plants to choose from. Because they would naturally grow here, these plants require less maintenance than something like a full yard of grass. “One thing many people continute to look for is durability in terms of plant material,” says Louis Kahn, owner of Palm Source. “Low maintenance in the garden is always desired.” A comprehensive list of native plant species for each county in the state has been compiled by Florida Native Plant Society and can be found on www.fnps.org. Growing Your Own Food With the economic problems people have faced in recent years, as well as a general trend toward healthier living, growing herbs and vegetables in home gardens has increased in popularity. Though it seems work-intensive, sustainable gardens, as they’re also called, can consist simply of herbs (some grocery stores sell ready-made kits) such as basil, thyme, and sage. For those with more time and energy, tomatoes and peas are popular garden plants, and fruit trees such as lemon and apple can also be grown. Edible gardening is also a good way to get children involved and to teach them about where food comes from. Cities have even taken it further and planted urban gardens around town to help feed low income residents with limited access to fresh produce. Some local restaurants and cafes here in Pensacola have also taken the initiative to grow their own herbs and greens. The appeal of eating something fresh grown just steps from where it’s being eaten is undeniable, and more and more people are discovering it.
Bringing the Indoors Out In a state like Florida where people can enjoy the outdoors nearly year-round, outdoor living spaces get a lot of use. While the setup seems simple (a seating area, a grill, maybe a pool or a bonfire pit), it’s not as easy as buying regular furniture and putting it outside. Sturdy furniture is needed to withstand the elements, particularly in hurricane zones like the Gulf Coast. Most people prefer the natural look outdoors, so furniture made out of teak or cedar is both classic and durable. Flagstone floors and outdoor kitchens give off a rustic look, and wooden arbors or pergolas provide some shade. According to Kahn, many people are asking for complete designs, “turnkey projects” that include “hardscapes, lighting, structures, the works.” “The best are truly outdoor extensions of the home with many amenities for hanging out,” says Kahn. Garden Habitats Attracting the three Bs: birds, bees, and butterflies, has also become popular. Many species of birds and butterflies are losing their natural habitats, and building one to attract them, however small, can have a positive effect on their populations. Regional landscaping is especially good for this, as they attract native fauna. Having pretty living things to look at other than flowers is also very calming and relaxing for people. Bees, on the other hand, have often been seen as a nuisance. Though they can be bothersome, many flowers require pollination for their best blooms. Beekeeping and home honey production is starting to become trendy, leading to the need for more garden plants that bees would enjoy. This type of garden is probably not best for those with children or those allergic to bee stings, however. Home gardens and yards are meant to be places of relaxation and fun. They should be planned around what you use them for the most, be it for quiet meditation or large family gatherings. Whether you follow the trends or not, personalization and functionality are key. If you want to have the best outdoor space on the block, however, just remember: plastic lawn chairs and pink flamingos are out, butterflies and basil are in.
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
29
30
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Upcycling Driftwood
DIY:
By Larsen Lien
The term “upcyle” has been floating around for quite some time. What does it really mean, though, and how can you do it? To upcycle something is quite different from recycling or repurposing – words we hear a lot more often. They’re all in the same family but differ in a few ways. Recycling is when you convert waste into a reusable material, and repurposing is when you take a perfectly good object but adapt it for a different use. But when you upcycle, you are taking trash or discarded materials and reusing them in a better, more functional way. Don’t let the overly extravagant Pinterest boards scare you out of a great upcycling project. It’s actually quite simple. There are two chairs in my home that are in desperate need of a small table to go in between them, so that’s what I’m going to make. I’d seen tables made from driftwood in stores and thought about purchasing one because they looked natural and had beautiful lines; however, one look at their price tags had me backing away slowly because if I broke it, I definitely could not buy it. Whether you’re buying locally in Pensacola or from an online retailer, the prices for a driftwood table will no doubt range from $300-$1,400, depending on size. March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
31
1
3 2 What I used: – Driftwood, in varying size and thickness – A tabletop of your choice – glass, a mirror, cut plywood covered in fabric, etc. Get creative. You can find most of these lying around or at a thrift store for a bargain price. – 6-8 screws, 1-3 inches – will vary due to wood thickness – A pack of large zip-ties How much I spent: – $10 on nails and zip-ties – $35 on glass tabletop (I bought a small, unattractive coffee table I found at a consignment shop and used its glass.) – Total: $45 Step 1: Find your driftwood Unless you know of a place with an abundance of beautiful driftwood, you’ll probably need to ask around and find out where your friends have seen the most. Once you find your location, you may need to rummage around for a while. It took me almost an hour to find all of the pieces I wanted, so set aside an afternoon. As you find pieces you like, lightly hit them against the ground or try to bend them. By doing that, you’ll make sure the
32
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
pieces you’re taking aren’t rotten. Grab a variety of sizes and shapes, but be sure you walk away with a few thicker ones. Step 2: Clean it up Once you have collected your pieces of driftwood, take them home and wash them well with a hose. They may have moss or dirt on them, and if you decide to leave a bit on there for aesthetic reasons, you’ll want to make sure it looks purposeful. Also go ahead and get rid of any small, unruly or dead pieces of limb. This is the part of the process where you get to really look at your driftwood and decide which ones are visually pleasing while also being functional. Step 3: Decide on a table size Wherever you envision your table, go sit there for a while and see what height would suit that area best. My ideal size was 25 inches in height with a tabletop 24 inches across. Since we’re not all trained craftsmen, you probably shouldn’t just start constructing a table without a reference. The easiest thing to do is look around your house for a table that may resemble what you have in mind. You can use its measurements as a rough starting point.
4
6 5 Step 4: Put together a prototype I had a few bigger, solid pieces to go with my smaller, more aesthetic pieces, so I decided to use the larger ones as the main base and the smaller ones as accents and kickstands. As you’re figuring out where you want what, you’ll find that some pieces are too tall. Don’t discount them. You’ll simply see how short you need it to be, mark that place then saw it down. (We’ll get to that in the next step.) It’s a lot easier than it sounds. If I can do it, so can you. Having one other person there while you experiment with prototypes is helpful but not necessary. This is where the zip-ties come in handy. Put the zip-ties where you will eventually put screws. This way, you can step back and see your base without awkwardly hugging it together while someone snaps an unflattering and unrealistic photo for you to see.
screws wherever you see zip-ties and other joint-like areas. Once it’s held together sturdily, cut off your zip-ties and behold the beginnings of a handmade table. The last step in the handyman portion of your project is to flatten the top of your driftwood pieces so your tabletop can sit on it evenly. You’ll need a saw. If you don’t have one, borrowing or renting from a home store will be your best bet. Step 6: The finished product Don’t give that saw back just yet. Once you’re ready to put the tabletop on the base, you’ll need to double check and make sure it’s level, which may require you sawing a few limbs down again. Use whatever you have to check your tabletop’s tilt, or hopefully lack thereof. Once it’s sturdy and you’re satisfied, it’s time to move your final project to its designated area and enjoy your one-of-a-kind driftwood table.
Step 5: Let your handyman skills show Now it’s time to actually start screwing things together and watch your table come to life. Since it’s already held together pretty well by the zip-ties, leave them attached to the wood so you’re table won’t fall apart. Then you can start putting in the
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
33
36
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
37
38
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
39
40
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
41
42
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
43
never be bored
www.downtowncrowd.com
44
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
45
PENSACOLA SCENE
...at the Pm Weddings 2014 unveiling party
Josh and Caitlin Newby
Barrett and Beth McClean
Krist and Larsen Lien
Kathleen Tucci and Rebecca Taylor
Carlos and Melinda Orona
...at Gallery Night, downtown Pensacola
Angel Harp, Charlie Owens, Heather Timo, and Mandy Sonnen
Filipe De Sousa
Stacy Kendall, Sandra Smith and Cortlandt Glover 46
pensacolamagazine.com
March 2014
Paola King and Delaney Pawless
Trey Adams and Brittany Meriweather
March 2014
pensacolamagazine.com
47