Inweekly Aug. 29 2024 Issue

publisher Rick Outzen edi tor & creative director Joani Delezen

graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk co ntributing writers Joshua Encinias, Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh , Dakota Parks, C.S. Satterwhite, Tom St. Myer contact us info@inweekly.net

winners & losers

winners losers

GULF WINDS CREDIT UNION The credit union co-sponsored Cat Country's 2024 Radiothon with Ascension Sacred Heart and donated $20,000 to the event, supporting the Studer Family Children's Hospital—the only Children's Miracle Network affiliate serving the Pensacola region. Since 2013, Gulf Winds has donated more than $184,000 to Sacred Heart's Foundation and the children's hospital. This year's donation will support the purchase of AngelEye cameras for the hospital's 62-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. These cameras let families watch over their babies 24/7 via a secure account, giving them peace of mind, as they never have to miss a memory.

VIRGINIA BUCHANAN The Levin Papantonio shareholder has been inducted into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL). Active Academy membership is limited to 500 Fellows from the U.S. In addition, IATL includes Fellows from nearly 40 countries throughout the world. Trial lawyers are admitted to fellowship in the Academy only if they possess, in an exceptional degree, superior skill and recognized ability in trial and appellate practice and have excellent character, professionalism and absolute integrity. They also must have rendered services to promote the best interests of the legal profession and the highest standards and techniques of advocacy.

CALDWELL ARCHITECTS The architecture firm, whose most important core value is "People and Family First," has received two awards for workplace culture from two nationally recognized organizations. PSMJ Resources, an architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) consulting firm, ranked Caldwell Architects no. 4 overall in its AEC Employer of Choice Award, which measures employee engagement and job satisfaction. The Zweig Group provides the largest employee survey in the AEC industry and ranks the top firms in the U.S. and Canada based on workplace practices, benefits and retention rates. Firms are ranked in categories according to the number of employees, with scores based on a combination of 80% anonymous employee surveys and 20% corporate surveys. Caldwell Architects was ranked no. 7.

JAMES CALKINS Santa Rosa County voters sent the commissioner packing despite him and his America First Alliance PAC flooding the county with mailers and text messages. Calkins tried to tie opponent Rhett Rowell to Black Lives Matter and Aaron Dimmock, the congressional candidate backed by former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy while using photos of Donald Trump and Matt Gaetz and Bible verses on other mailers. The incumbent commissioner was third in the GOP primary behind Rowell and Jerry Couey.

GREAT OUTDOORS

INITIATIVE

Last week, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the launch of its 2024-25 Great Outdoors Initiative. In addition to increasing the number of cabins and lodges on park property, the initiative would add more recreation opportunities, including pickleball, disc golf, golf and paddling. Groups such as 1000 Friends of Florida Inc., Friends of the Everglades, Florida Wildlife Federation and VoteWater implored their members to contact legislators, Gov. Ron DeSantis and other state officials to oppose the plan. 1000 Friends of Florida said, "State parks should not be competitors for golf courses or other private recreational complexes, which are available throughout the state." FDEP wants to build a 350-room park lodge at nearby Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH It took nearly two months for the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) to issue a public notice and begin direct outreach to individuals "potentially affected" by a cybersecurity incident. On June 26, FDOH discovered a security breach in its network that led to unauthorized access to some of our data. The breach affected several of its systems and resulted in data transfer from a specific location. FDOH immediately launched an investigation and collaborated with cybersecurity experts to determine the nature and scope of the breach. It also promptly informed law enforcement and referred the matter to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for investigation. However, FDOH didn't offer credit monitoring to patients until Aug. 21.

Photo Courtesy of Gulf Winds Credit Union

James Calkins / Photo Courtesy of Santa Rosa County

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

BEWARE OF PAC MEN

Twenty-five years ago, local candidates who ran negative ads often lost their races. Social media platforms hadn't been created. Mailers were rare, and political action committees (PACs) weren't involved.

Candidates avoided attacking their opponents in print because they had to put their names on the ads. One exception was State Sen. W.D. Childers, who later chaired the Escambia County Commission until he was indicted. Childers loved to go negative the weekend before election day when his opponent had no time to respond. He would buy a full-page ad in the Pensacola News Journal filled with the worst photos of his opponent he could find. Childers focused on election day because vote-by-mail was rare and early voting didn't exist.

Instead of attack mailers and text messages from mysterious PACs, voters might find in their driveway a flyer filled with wild allegations the morning the polls opened. Candidates used phone banks to call voters to offset the misinformation. They also had several supporters at the precincts talking to voters as they headed inside to vote.

Today, attack mailers are acceptable, though they rarely come directly from the candidate. The optimal times to send them are when the Supervisor of Elections sends the first batch of vote-by-mails, the Saturday before early voting starts, and the weekend before election day. Some political consultants recommend having at least four attack pieces in front of voters.

In the District 4 county commission race, the Committee to Protect Florida sent a race-baiting mailer attacking Walker Wilson. The mailer darkened his face, tied him to Commissioner Lumon May and called Wilson "another Downtown Democrat." The mailer hit mailboxes in District 4 on Saturday, Aug. 10, the first day of early voting.

On the weekend before election day, Build the Wall PAC sent a mailer calling the other two candidates in the GOP primary, Ashlee Hofberger and Buck Mitchell, "Liberal Fake Republicans." Mitchell didn't have PAC-funded mailers to help his campaign.

Hofberger won the primary with 38% of the vote, finishing ahead of Wilson (33%) and Mitchell (30%). She took the lead during early voting when the "blackface" mailer was received and never relinquished it.

PAC men went wild in Santa Rosa County. Fortunately, they failed miserably, costing two county commissioners their jobs.

The Committee to Protect Florida and Moving Families Forward sent mailers attacking Commissioner Sam Parker's opponent, Bobby Burkett, for receiving campaign contributions from developers and being once registered as a Democrat. Since Pace doesn't have a downtown, the PACs couldn't label Burkett a "Downtown Democrat."

The Committee to Protect Florida is run by political consultant Mark Zubaly, who settled a defamation suit filed by a Santa Rosa County Commissioner for $50,000 last year. Zubaly, using the Nature Coast Conservative PAC, sent a mailer during the 2022 election cycle attacking Kerry Smith. It claimed Smith was "found guilty several times of domestic violence against his then-wife" and "violated probation after being found guilty of domestic violence."

Alex Andrade represented Smith, who won the commission seat. He told Florida Politics that Smith was never found guilty of hitting any woman, let alone his wife, and never violated a probation. Zubaly agreed to pay the settlement and signed sworn affidavits identifying the source behind the attacks, homebuilder Edwin Henry.

The Santa Rosa PAC superman is Commissioner James Calkins. His America First Alliance PAC aggressively went after his opponents, Jerry Couey and Rhett Rowell, and his fellow commissioner, Colten Wright. America First Alliance lists Calkins' grandmother, Judith Sorenson, as the chairperson. Calkins did his best to cover up his relationship with Sorenson by listing himself as James Lee in his grandfa ther's obituary.

The PAC tried to portray them as tied to de velopers. However, developers, contractors and others tied to real estate deals in Santa Rosa County contributed money to America First Alliance and the Committee to Protect Florida.

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Burkett soundly defeated Parker, 52%-34%, with two other Republicans receiving the remaining 14%. Calkins was totally embarrassed, finishing behind both Rowell (43%) and Couey (29%).

I doubt we will see PACs disappear from Santa Rosa politics, but voters have become more educated on how to work. Let's hope Escambia wakes up, too. {in} rick@inweekly.net

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GO ARGOS Will Kennedy, the athletics communications director for the University of West Florida (UWF), previewed the 2024 UWF Argos football season for Inweekly. The Argos are ranked nationally, and Gulf South Conference coaches have picked the team to finish second in the conference behind Valdosta State University.

"We've got a roster of 118 or so guys to start the fall camp—60 of them are brand new," Kennedy said. "I try to read Coach Kaleb Nobles, and it's almost like you're playing poker when you talk to football coaches, and you got to look for the tells and kind of get a feel. You'll ask, 'Hey, coach, what do you think? How are we looking?' And he'll kind of say, 'I think we're going to be all right,' which translations to he thinks they're going to be pretty good."

The Argos open the 2024 season Thursday, Sept. 5, when they host McKendree University at PenAir Field on the UWF campus. Kickoff for the game is 6 p.m.

"With Valdosta ranked seventh to start the year—we're ranked 12th nationally, and then Delta State at 18th—so I believe it will be a three-horse race in the Gulf South Conference," Kennedy said. "I think the coaching staff does, too. Not being picked the favorite, especially with a new quarterback and some new faces, takes a little bit of the pressure off."

He continued, "But that said, I was reading over some preseason stuff we're putting out, and we've won 64 games in just seven seasons of playing football. We've been to the playoffs six times. We've been to the semi-final three times and won a title. There's pressure every year."

Season and single-game tickets for the 2024 home season are currently on sale. Fans can call the UWF Athletics Ticket Office at 850-474ARGO (2746) or visit goargos.com/footballtix.

NEW BCC COMING According to the unofficial election results posted by Escambia County Supervisor of Elections office, the county only had 48,304 people vote in the Aug. 20 primary, for a 23.4% turnout percentage. It was the lowest primary turnout in a decade. In 2014, only 33,362 votes were cast (16.78%).

Steve Stroberger won the GOP primary for

the District 1 county commission seat, defeating two-term incumbent Jeff Bergosh by 1,533 votes—4,793 to 3,260. Perennial candidate Jesse Casey came in a distant third with 795 votes.

The Pensacola News Journal published four articles on Bergosh and one viewpoint endorsing his opponent in August. The first article ran three days before Early Voting started, and the last one, regarding a letter from County Clerk Pam Childers refusing to pay legal fees tied to his texts, was published election day. Childers endorsed and campaigned for Stroberger.

Bergosh received the most votes by mail, 1,044, which gave him a 232-vote lead over the challenger. However, Stroberger took the lead in the Early Voting period with 1,686, which moved him ahead of Bergosh by 423 votes. On election day, Stroberger crushed the incumbent by an almost 2-to-1 margin.

In the District 4 commission race, Ashlee Hofberger won the GOP primary, with 418 votes more than second-place Walker Wilson and 670 more votes than Buck Mitchell. Wilson had a narrow 23-vote lead over Hofberger in the votes by mail but saw it disappear in the Early Voting period when Hofberger (865 votes) and Mitchell (697 votes) received more than his 689 votes.

Wilson went into election day trailing by only 153 votes. Hofberger had a better ground game, receiving 1,455 votes to his 1,190, and walked away with the victory. She will face Democrat Ron Helms in November.

In other Escambia County races, Vicki Campbell will return to her District 1 seat on the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority (ECUA) after winning 70% of the vote. ECUA District 3 incumbent Larry Williams will return also thanks to 81% of his constituents.

The Escambia County School Board will have two new board members. Rich Holzknecht won the District 4 seat with 31% of the vote, edging out Carissa Bergosh by 101 votes in the four-person primary. Tom Harrell won the District 5 spot with 59% of the vote.

MILESTONE

On Monday, Aug. 19, "Real News with Rick Outzen" on WCOA hit the 3,700-interview milestone. The show with Sena Mad -

dison began Aug. 9, 2021, and runs weekdays 7-8:30 a.m.

"Real News" packed the first show three years ago. Mayor Grover Robinson, the inaugural guest, shared that his weekly press conference would include local hospital and health care leaders, who would give updates on the COVID pandemic.

Former Florida State football players Clay Ingram and Dennis Green discussed playing for the late Bobby Bowden. Former City Council president Jewel Cannada-Wynn explained why she was running for mayor.

Commissioner Jeff Bergosh talked about the former county HR director. TDC chair David Bear told listeners how difficult it had been to get bed tax reports from County Clerk Pam Childers. Quint Studer discussed the newly opened ABC Supply Stadium, where his SingleA Beloit Snappers played their first home games the previous week.

"Real News" still packs its 90 minutes with interviews. On Monday, Aug. 19, Neighborhood Enterprise Division Manager Garett Griffin discussed how the county has doubled its assistance projects this fiscal year. Mayor D.C. Reeves said he expects the second phase of Bruce Beach to be open to the public in early October. PenAir Credit Union's Lewis Garvin shared details on the "Old Glory" flag retirement initiative.

The show also had local delegate Jeff Nall and ABC News White Correspondent Karen Travers report from the Democratic National Convention. Travers officially was the 3,700th interview.

FIGHTING FOR VETERANS U.S. Sen. Rick Scott made a campaign stop in southwest Escambia County yesterday at Warrior Beer Co. The theme was supporting our military veterans, which made the brewery the ideal spot for the rally.

Owner Gary Hefner said, "The mission behind Warrior Beer Company is to have a safe space for veterans to come with their families and comrades, to be able to have a beer, enjoy one another in a very safe space."

He said his brewery doesn't endorse candidates. "But we will endorse candidates that do the right thing for our veterans. That's what

this property's about. And we want veterans' initiatives to be first and forefront. And we'll be behind them, and we'll stand behind them. Having Senator Scott here with us is awesome because he is a proponent for veterans, and we believe in that mission."

Sen. Scott explained how he got involved in veterans' issues. "It's really because of my adopted father. I'm blessed I had ... I don't know my natural father, but my adopted father was one of the 3,000 people who did all four combat jumps through the 82nd Airborne."

He continued, "Actually, I didn't really know how difficult his life was; I did a little bit growing up. But there are very few people that survived all four of those jumps. Just in Normandy, 17% of his company died, and then after those for jumps, he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. And so many people died in those battles, but my father, who had completed a sixth-grade education, he loved this country, and he loved serving."

Scott joined the Navy at 18 during the Vietnam War. "What we learned is, at that time, Americans were not supportive of our military. I couldn't wear my uniform off base. When I got out, it didn't help you that you served. It actually hurt you that you served because the Vietnam War, as you know, was not a popular war."

Before he was sworn in as governor, four groups of National Guard members were sent overseas every year, and 30% of them didn't have a job. He said, "We had just under, I think, 11% unemployment. These young men and women were coming back, and they could not find a job."

Scott said, "One thing I wanted to do is, by the end of my term, make sure this was the state that everybody wanted to serve in, the state that everybody wanted to retire in, and that veterans and active military knew they were going to get treated better here than anyplace else."

The Florida Legislature supported his efforts. "We made it easy for veterans. Whether you were from Florida or not, you got in-state tuition. But there were a variety of things. We looked at what every other state was doing and tried to do one up on every state. By the time we finished, we were fully the No. 1 state you wanted to serve in

and the No. 1 state you wanted to retire in if you were in the military."

Scott praised his Senate staff and their work with veterans. "Anybody that has any issues with the VA or any other veterans' issue or active-duty issue, that's what we work on. So, I try to make sure that Florida continues to be the place. The truth is, we've got to make sure America is the place you want to serve in the military."

FOR

ALL FLORIDIANS Democrat Debbie Mucarsel-Powell faces Sen. Rick Scott in the November election. She called "Real News with Rick Outzen" on the morning of the Aug. 20 primary to urge Escambia voters to go to the polls.

"I'm back in Miami, and there's so much excitement on the ground," she said. "People are just ready for change, ready to elect the right leaders that are going to put them first and work for them."

Mucarsel-Powell continued, "But it doesn't mean anything if you're energized and excited, but you don't vote. If you're listening, make sure they vote. Don't stay at home."

She explained why she spent over a week in Northwest Florida in July. "I am running for every single Floridian regardless of party, and I don't see Florida as a red county versus a blue county. I see Florida as a state that needs to be united, that needs to work together, that needs to put partisan politics aside and work on the issues that are very challenging that we're facing."

Mucarsel-Powell shared, "I actually met a senior there in the Panhandle that was driving an Uber because after she retired from a great job, she can't afford to pay for her property insurance rates. I mean, that shouldn't be happening in our incredible state."

She believes the state's independent streak will help her garner votes in November. "We vote for the candidate. We don't vote for the party. Put partisan politics aside. Everyone, let's come together. Let's unify. Let's work to get our communities in a place where we can have disagreements on policy, but we're not enemies."

Mucarsel-Powell added, "We are one state, one country, united, to continue to move forward, to create better communities for everyone, for our seniors, our children, our moms and dads, our teachers and small businesses. That's what I'm running on and why I think we have received so much support from people all across the state."

WOMEN BUILD Pensacola Habitat for Humanity's 11th annual Women Build will be historic. This year's fundraising efforts will help Women Build surpass the million-dollar mark for donations raised since its inception.

Women Build empowers women from all walks of life to join forces to raise money, forge bonds and physically construct homes for other women in their community. Each year, the program demonstrates how powerful it can be when local women come together to tackle the challenge of affordable housing.

"Women Build is unique because most of the fundraising happens outside of our office by

many women united by one goal," said Michele DuMond, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity's volunteer services and special events manager. "Our community truly comes together to make a real difference, and it's incredibly inspiring to witness these incredible women get it done."

After raising over $150,000 during last year's campaign, this year's Women Build has already surpassed the $100,000 mark and will continue its strong momentum for the rest of the calendar year toward this year's $150,000 goal. With so much excitement around the fundraising milestones and many committed women across the community participating, two homes will be built during build week, a first for Pensacola Habitat for Humanity's Women Build.

"Knowing that we'll have raised over $1 million is a truly special achievement and speaks to the dedication of our Women Builders over the years," DuMond said.

The first Pensacola Habitat for Humanity Women Build took place in 2014, raising just over $50,000. Today, it stands as the organization's largest fundraiser. To sign up or donate to Women Build, visit womenbuild.pensacolahabitat.org.

COLLABORATION To help its employees upskill and further their careers by pursuing educational opportunities, Santa Rosa County School District leaders have signed a collaboration agreement with accredited, online Western Governors University (WGU). WGU will provide school district employees with flexible, personalized learning pathways to higher education, including bachelor's and master's degrees, professional certificates and credentials.

As part of the agreement, school system employees can apply for WGU's K-12 Partner Scholarships in the amount of $2,500, which is disbursed in increments of $625 per term for up to four academic terms based on satisfactory academic performance. Tuition at WGU is around $4,000 to $5,000 per six-month term, and students can take as many courses as they desire within a term with the consent of their assigned program mentor.

Established in 1997, WGU offers over 80 bachelor's and master's degrees in K-12 education, information technology, business and health care. The nonprofit university's asynchronous competency-based model allows working adults to log on at a time and place convenient to them and to accelerate at their preferred pace. WGU currently has over 10,200 enrolled students and more than 18,800 graduates in Florida.

Dr. Karen Barber, Santa Rosa's school superintendent, expressed her excitement for the collaboration. "We are thrilled to announce the partnership between Santa Rosa County District Schools and Western Governors University. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on our staff and students. This collaboration will bring valuable resources to our district."

To stay current on Santa Rosa County District Schools, visit santarosaschools.org. {in}

—Voted Runner Up— Best Hair Salon Gulf Breeze

Last week we printed 84 pages, but even that wasn't enough to cover all the Best of the Coast bases. So we're back for round two: Rest of the Best. In this issue, we're celebrating the runners-up and giving them their own moment in the spotlight. We count the votes, which means we know just how competitive some of the categories are (looking at you, Best Taco). That's why we think each and every business that earned a spot on the list should be celebrated. {in}

BEST NONPROFIT

Winner: Gulf Winds Cares Foundation

Gulf Coast Kid's House

Pensacola Children's Chorus

Pensacola Little Theatre

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Winner: Brunch & Bubbles (Gulf Coast Kid's House)

Cabaret (Pensacola Little Theatre)

Heroes Among Us (Marine Corps League)

Wonder Ride (onbikes Pensacola)

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union

Gulf Coast Kid's House

Gulf Winds Credit Union

University of West Florida

BEST BOSS

Winner: Stacey Kostevicki (Gulf Coast Kid's House)

Allison Hill (LifeView Group)

Chandra McKern (Pensacola Opera)

Caleb Pierce (Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar)

BEST COMMUNITY LEADER

Winner: Haley "Hale" Morrissette (Dream Defenders)

Devin Cole (Strive)

Alex Gartner (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

Debi Janea (Ballet Pensacola)

BEST RISING LEADER

Winner: Cody Martin (Pensacola Opera)

Jarah Jacquay (Bluffline)

Alex Smith (City of Pensacola)

Sara Williamson (Ballet Pensacola)

BEST POLITICIAN

Winner: D.C. Reeves

Teniadé Broughton

Lumon May

Michelle Salzman

BEST ADVOCACY/ACTIVIST GROUP

Winner: Strive

Food Not Bombs Pensacola

Party for Socialism & Liberation–Central

Gulf Coast

Sunday's Child

BEST PLACE TO TAKE

OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

Winner: Pensacola Beach

Downtown

National Naval Aviation Museum

Palafox Market

BEST DAY TRIP

Winner: Fairhope

30A/Seaside

Blackwater River State Park

Fort Pickens

BEST ANNUAL EVENT

Winner: The Nutcracker (Ballet Pensacola)

Blue Angels Pensacola Beach Air Show

Christmas on the Coast (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

Foo Foo Fest

BEST FOOD EVENT

Winner: Pensacola Seafood Festival

Great Southern Restaurants' Restaurant Week

Pensacola Crawfish Festival

Pensacola VegFest

BEST PARADE

Winner: Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade

Grand Fiesta Parade

Pensacola Christmas Parade

Pensacola Pawdi Gras

BEST REGULAR/REOCCURRING EVENT

Winner: Gallery Night

Bands on the Beach

Improvable Cause

Palafox Market

BEST FREE THING TO DO

Winner: National Naval Aviation Museum

Bands on the Beach

Gallery Night

Palafox Market

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Winner: East Hill

Cordova Park

North Hill

Scenic Heights

BEST PUBLIC PARK

Winner: Bayview Park

Blake Doyle Skatepark

Bruce Beach

Veterans Memorial Park

BEST PET-FRIENDLY PARK

Winner: Bayview Park

Pensacola Beach Dog Park

River Road Park

Roger Scott Dog Park

BEST PLAYGROUND

Winner: Bruce Beach

Hitzman-Optimist Park

Perdido Kids Park

Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community

Maritime Park

BEST PALAFOX MARKET VENDOR

Winner: The Crafted Makerie

Annie's Naked Cookies

Jade Tree Succulents

Whim Cotton Candy

BEST MAKERS/CRAFT MARKET

Winner: Palafox Market

East Hill Makers Market

Odd Colony Brewing Company

Pensacola Arts Market

BEST REASON TO ATTEND A BLUE WAHOOS GAME

Winner: Fireworks

Food

Roach Run

View

BEST REASON TO ATTEND AN ICE FLYERS GAME

Winner: Wiener Dog Race Night

Chuck-A-Puck

Fights

Maverick

BEST YOUTH SPORTS/REC PROGRAM

Winner: Greater Pensacola

Figure Skating Club

Gulf Breeze Sports Association

Pensacola Youth Soccer

Southern Youth Sports Association

BEST DANCE STUDIO

Winner: Ballet Pensacola

First Dance Ballroom Studio LaBelle Performing Arts

Mixon Magic Performing Arts

BEST AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITY

Winner: Pensacola Children's Chorus Ballet Pensacola

Neighborhood Children's Theatre Pensacola Little Theatre

BEST SUMMER CAMP

Winner: UWF's Explore Summer Camps Ballet Pensacola

Neighborhood Children's Theatre Pensacola Children's Chorus

BEST PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY

Winner: Pensacola MESS Hall

Fast Eddies Fun Center

Pensacola Children's Museum Sky Zone Trampoline Park

BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY

Winner: Sue Straughn

Derrick Brooks

Hannah Holtsclaw

Bubba Watson

BEST TV STATION

Winner: WEAR

Blab TV

WKRG WSRE

BEST RADIO STATION

Winner: Cat Country 98.7

The Beat 107.3

NewsRadio 92.3/1620 WUWF 88.1

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY

Winner: Brent Lane (Cat Country 98.7)

Melissa "Mel" McCrae (Cat Country 98.7) Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620) T.S. Strickland (WUWF 88.1)

BEST MORNING RADIO SHOW

Winner: The Cat Pack Morning Show (Cat Country 98.7)

NPR Morning Edition (WUWF 88.1)

Pensacola Morning News with Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620)

Real News with Rick Outzen (WCOA 1370)

BEST PODCAST

Winner: HatchMark Studio's Practical Rebels

Heretics' Social Club

Pensacola Mom Collective's Raising Pensacola

Some People Suck

BEST WEBSITE/BLOG

Winner: Visit Pensacola (visitpensacola.com)

Cat Country 98.7 (catcountry987.com)

Local Pulse (localpulse.com)

Pensacola Mom Collective (pensacola.momcollective.com)

BEST BUSINESS OR PERSON TO FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Winner: All Things Emerald Coast

The 850 Foodie

Pensacola Mom Collective

Pensacola Vibes

BEST WAY TO GET CULTURED

Winner: Pensacola Opera

Ballet Pensacola

Pensacola Little Theatre

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra

BEST ART GALLERY/MUSEUM

Winner: Pensacola Museum of Art

309 Punk Project

Artel Gallery

Quayside Art Gallery

BEST ARTIST

Winner: Eniko Ujj

Poppy Garcia

Dylan Nadsady

Nate Schweigert

BEST AUTHOR/WRITER

Winner: Maghen Gardner

Ann Brooks

Emily Ley

Nic Schuck

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Winner: Blake Jones

Sarah Coleman

Lindsey Friar

Sean Mullins

BEST MUSIC VENUE

Winner: The Handlebar

The Bugghouse

Saenger Theatre

Vinyl Music Hall

BEST BAND

Winner: ego death

[glsnr]

Ben Loftin & The Family

John Hart & The Prince Brothers

BEST CONCERT/CONCERT SERIES

Winner: Bands on the Beach

Bands on the Bayou Blues on the Bay

Christmas on the Coast (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

BEST THEATRE PRODUCTION

Winner: 13 (Pensacola Little Theatre)

Die Fledermaus (Pensacola Opera)

Improbable Cause Mystery Theatre  The Sleeping Beauty (Ballet Pensacola)

BEST COMEDIAN

Winner: Tony Burkett

Delisia Nicholas

Ryan Pfeiffer

Olivia Searcy

FEELING

from Best of the Coast voters for 14 YEARS

BEST GYM

Winner: Coastal Fitness Training

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

Burn Boot Camp

Regymen Fitness

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Winner: Jake Schwartz (Burn Boot Camp)

Brandee Brinker (Coastal Fitness Training)

Shaun Gettis (Get Fit Fitness)

Sydney Romanelli (Burn Boot Camp)

BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO

Winner: Wild Lemon

Disko Lemonade Pure Pilates

Ride Society

BEST YOGA

Winner: Disko Lemonade

Regymen Fitness

URU Yoga & Beyond

Yoga Abode

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Angie Chapa (Disko Lemonade)

Donna Dickey (Yoga Abode)

Jessica Marickovich (Regymen Fitness)

Justin Nutt (Empathic Practice, URU Yoga & Beyond and Community Health Northwest Florida)

BEST PILATES

Winner: Wild Lemon

Disko Lemonade

Pilates Core Training Pure Pilates

BEST FITNESS CLASSES

Winner: Regymen Fitness

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

Disko Lemonade Wild Lemon

BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Amelia Murphy (Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA)

Jenn Jordan (Regymen Fitness)

Kiley Bolster Manning (Wild Lemon)

Rachel Smith (Community YMCA at Gulf Breeze)

BEST BOOTCAMP

Winner: Coastal Fitness Training

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

Burn Boot Camp Get Fit Fitness

BEST WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM

Winner: As You Are Health Services

Evolve Medical

Mind Body & Soul Medical

Woodlands Medical Specialists

BEST RUNNING CLUB

Winner: Running Wild

200 South Tap House

Fleet Feet

Seville Quarter

BEST 5K

Winner: McGuire's St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K

AWKO Justice Jog

Double Bridge Run

Navy Federal 5K

BEST PLACE TO WALK/RUN

Winner: Bayview Park

Downtown

Navy Point Park

Pensacola Bay Bridge

BEST PLACE TO RIDE A BIKE

Winner: Ride Society

East Hill

Pensacola Bay Bridge University of West Florida Campus Trails

BEST HOSPITAL

Winner: Ascension Sacred Heart

Baptist Hospital

Gulf Breeze Hospital

HCA Florida West Hospital

BEST GENERAL CARE PHYSICIAN

Winner: Dr. George Smith (Community Health Northwest Florida)

Dr. Buffi Bailey (B Virtual Health & Wellness)

Dr. Kacey Gibson (Emerald Coast Medical Group)

Dr. Jennifer Miley (Woodlands Medical Specialists)

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Winner: Dr. Craig Henry (Henry Chiropractic)

Dr. David Edge (Edge Family Chiropractic)

Dr. Lindsey Jeudevine (Olde Seville Chiropractic)

Dr. Jason Stern (Stern Chiropractic Clinic)

BEST DENTIST

Winner: Dr. Naomi Norton (Summit Dental)

Dr. Philip Gibson (Gibson & Heath Family Dentistry)

Dr. Neil and Allie Simmons (Pensacola Kids Dentistry)

Dr. Ben White (White Smiles General Dentistry)

BEST ENDODONTIST

Winner: Dr. Josh Todd (Elite Endodontics)

Dr. Jared Beam (Elite Endodontics)

Dr. Phillip Bell (Pensacola Center for Endodontics)

Dr. Thomas Lyons (Pensacola Endodontics)

BEST ORTHODONTICS

Winner: Fishbein Orthodontics

Shehee & Callahan Family Orthodontics

Sims Orthodontics

Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

Winner: Dr. Randall Reese (Pensacola Pediatrics)

Dr. Brandy J. Boutin (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Amy Foland (Pensacola Pediatrics)

Dr. Jennifer Thompson (Ascension Medical Group)

BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL

Winner: Scott Durrance, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services)

Tamara Driskell, LMHC (Arya Therapy Services)

Kam Kingsland, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services)

T. Katie Perry, APRN (The Anchor Clinic)

BEST OB/GYN

Winner: Dr. Jairan L. Duke-Elmore (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Ana M. Antonetti (The Women's Group)

Dr. Erika Schneider (Baptist Medical Group)

Dr. Brian Sontag (Ascension Medical Group)

BEST OPTOMETRIST

Winner: Dr. Lindsay Durtschi (Midtown Vision)

Dr. Jennifer Murray (Eye Institute at Medical Center Clinic)

Dr. Michael Richardson, Jr. (Center for Sight)

Dr. Gene Terrezza (Terrezza Optical)

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Winner: Dr. Sean Branch (Proper Dermatology)

Dr. Jenna Beasley (Vital Dermatology)

Dr. Andrea Taylor (Taylor Dermatology)

Dr. Amy Pote Watson (Pensacola Dermatology)

BEST PLASTIC SURGERY

Winner: Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery

Derek Jones Facial Plastic Surgery

Ortega Plastic Surgery

Shaddix Plastic Surgery

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY

Winner: Stark Performance

Physical Therapy

Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Stern Chiropractic Clinic

SWELL Physical Therapy & Performance

BEST PHARMACY

Winner: First City Drugs

Community Health Northwest Florida East Hill Pharmacy

Jackson Pace Pharmacy

BEST WALK-IN CLINIC

Winner: Baptist Urgent Care

Ascension Sacred Heart Urgent Care

Community Health Northwest Florida ProHealth Medical Care

BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY

Winner: Sunburn Cannabis FLUENT

MÜV

Trulieve

BEST HAIR SALON–PENSACOLA

Winner: Loxx by Natalie & Co.

Hair + Co

The Powder Room

Salon San Carlos

BEST HAIR SALON–GULF BREEZE/PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: The Blue Magnolia Salon

All Things Nikki

Olli+Izzie Style House

Painted Bohemian

BEST HAIR SALON–MILTON/PACE

Winner: The Hair Loft

Fringe Salon & Skincare Studio

Penton House Salon & Day Spa

Unbridled, A Hair Salon

BEST HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Gabrielle Montoya-Frias (Loxx by Natalie & Co.)

Linda Bryant (Loxbylinda)

Alex Horne Garcia (Hairy Alex Horne)

Nikki Rice (All Things Nikki)

BEST HAIR COLORIST

Winner: Vanessa Myers (Vanessa Myers Hair)

Nina Bonita (Hair + Co)

Brittany Hightower (Olli+Izzie Style House)

Courtney Northington (Peach Fuzz)

BEST BARBER SHOP

Winner: Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods

East Hill Barbershop

The Green Room

Pensacola House of Barbers

BEST MEN'S HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Ka Noel Delarosa (Loxx by Natalie & Co.)

Scott Bissonnette (The Green Room)

Tyler Infinger (Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods)

Luna Zepp (Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods)

BEST DAY SPA

Winner: Escape Wellness Spa

Bodyworks of Perdido Key

Stay The Spa

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

BEST MASSAGE

Winner: Escape Wellness Spa

Bodyworks of Perdido Key

Coastal Vibes Massage Therapy

House of Triad

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

Winner: Jen Bryars

(Escape Wellness Spa)

Twanda Bell (Cordova Skin & Body)

Zach Binkley (House of Triad)

Chris Kuhn (Coastal Vibes Massage Therapy)

BEST PEDICURE

Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar

East Hill Nail Spa

Medina Belleza

Vibar Nails

BEST MANICURE

Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar

Gilded Pensacola

Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa

Vibar Nails

BEST HAIR REMOVAL

Winner: Dela Beauty Bar

Beauty and the Beam Laser and Electrolysis

Cordova Skin & Body

Tiffany Rae Esthetics

BEST FACIAL

Winner: Tiffany Rae Esthetics

Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa

Mind Body & Soul Medical

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

BEST ESTHETICIAN

Winner: Lauren Massey Bell

(Escape Wellness Spa)

Miranda Andrews

(Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa)

Molly Flynn (Skin by Flynn)

Tiffany Miller (Tiffany Rae Esthetics)

BEST SKIN CARE OVERALL

Winner: Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

Escape Wellness Spa

Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa

Tiffany Rae Esthetics

BEST BANK

Winner: Regions Bank

Hancock Whitney Bank

PNC Bank

Synovus Bank

BEST CREDIT UNION

Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union

Gulf Winds Credit Union

Members First Credit Union of Florida

Pen Air Federal Credit Union

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Winner: Andrew Martin

(Atlas Financial Strategies)

Jacey Cosentino (Edward Jones)

Alex Coyne (Northwestern Mutual)

Jarrod Dawson (Nautilus Private

Wealth of Raymond James)

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM

Winner: Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund

Brown Thornton Pacenta & Company, P.A.

Warren Averett

Wilson Business Group

BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL

ESTATE AGENCY

Winner: Levin Rinke Realty

Conna O'Donovan Real Estate

Kuhn Realty

Pointe South Rentals & Real Estate

BEST COMMERCIAL REAL

ESTATE AGENCY

Winner: NAI Pensacola

Bellcore Commercial

Gunther Properties

The Zimmern Team

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Winner: Simone Sands (Engel & Völkers Pensacola)

Amber Jernigan (eXp Realty)

Kira Santos (Levin Rinke Realty)

Minh Quoc Tran (CENTURY 21 BE3)

BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL/INN

Winner: Solé Inn and Suites

Celestine Bed and Breakfast

Lily Hall

Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel

BEST HOTEL–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: Hilton Pensacola Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach

Paradise Inn

The Pensacola Beach Resort

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX

Winner: Avalon Apartments

The Crossings at Milestone

Palmilla

Rhelm

BEST ARCHITECTURE FIRM

Winner: Dalrymple | Sallis Architecture

Brett Duch Architect

Caldwell Architects

DAG Architects

BEST LAW FIRM

Winner: Taylor, Warren, Weidner, Hancock & Barnes

Clark Partington

Levin Papantonio

Michles & Booth, P.A.

BEST ATTORNEY

Winner: Scott C. Barnes (Taylor, Warren, Weidner, Hancock & Barnes)

Hunter J. Hendrix

(Autumn Beck Blackledge, PLLC)

Aaron Watson (The Watson Firm, PLLC)

Joe Zarzaur (Zarzaur Law P.A.)

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Winner: Tyler Kercher (State Farm)

Ryan Jacobs (Florida Insurance Agency)

Joe Pace, Jr. (Pace and Sons Insurance)

Valerie Virgilio (Westmark & Associates Allstate Agency)

BEST VET

Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

Davis Animal Hospital

East Hill Animal Hospital

Pine Meadow Veterinary Clinic

BEST DOG GROOMER

Winner: Vanity Fur

Blue Angel Pet Salon

The Groomery

ShamPoochies

BEST DOG TRAINING

Winner: Off Leash K9 Training

Emerald Coast

Concerned Canines

East Bay Dog Spot

East Hill Dog Walking Company

BEST PET BOARDING

Winner: Fetch Fido

Miss Pearl's Bed & Biscuit

Navy Boulevard Animal Hospital

Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

Winner: Hanto + Clarke

Bear General Contractors

ParsCo Construction

Sunchase Construction

BEST AC COMPANY

Winner: All Seasons Service Network

Boutwell's Air Masters

Commander Air Inc.

Economy Appliance, Heat & Air Inc.

BEST LANDSCAPING

Winner: Frederickson Lawn Management

Blue Sky Landscaping

Eye Candy Lawns

KMK Lawn Care Services

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER

Winner: Blu Salmon

Dee McDavid Interiors

Lacy Phillips Designs

Nest Interiors Inc.

BEST CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING

Winner: Aiken Picture Frames South

Framing by Design

Just Plain Putter

Marty Campbell Gallery & Frame Shop

BEST TATTOO & PIERCING STUDIO

Winner: The Western Rose

Dragoncat Tattoo

Love Child Tattoo

Portside Tattoo

BEST TATTOO ARTIST

Winner: Samanah Guyah (Fortune Tattoo)

Alex Curran (Love Child Tattoo)

Dave Ham (The Western Rose)

Robert Smith (Portside Tattoo)

BEST SPECIAL EVENT SPACE

Winner: 5eleven Palafox

Court of De Luna Event Space

Culinary Productions, Inc.

The Sanctuary

BEST PARTY DECOR

Winner: Blushing Balloons

Alpha-Lit

Bashes & Bubbly

Light Bright Events

BEST MOBILE EVENT SERVICE/EXPERIENCE

Winner: Whim Cotton Candy

Ash + Air Mobile Cigar Lounge

Tap the Coast

Top It Off, The Cupcake Bar

BEST CATERER

Winner: Classic City Catering

Culinary Productions, Inc.

Four Seasons Catering and Eatery

Greek's Catering and Events

BEST FLORIST

Winner: Fiore of Pensacola

Celebrations The Florist

Just Judy's Flowers, Local Art & Gifts

Sunshine Designs Florist

BEST PORTRAIT/FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner: Geoff Peck

Caitlin Elizabeth Photography

Christy Kerr Photography

Kelsei Frazier Photography

BEST TAILOR/ALTERATIONS

Winner: Ruthy's Creations and Alterations

3 Muses Costumes & Alterations

Bosa's Tailor Shop

The Sewing Box

BEST CAR WASH/DETAILER

Winner: Perdido Auto Spa

Eco Car Wash

New Era Detail & Wash

Ronny's Car Wash

BEST AUTO SERVICE SHOP

Winner: Pensacola A/C & Auto Service Center

Cannon Automotive

East Hill Automotive Center

Evans Automotive Service Center

BEST GREEN BUSINESS

Winner: Salon San Carlos

The Daily Squeeze

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

SunFarm Energy

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Winner: Coastal Cat Cafe

Fine Line Ink Pensacola

Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa

Sharp and the Swann

PENSACOLA!

WINNER Best Bookstore

WINNER Best Cooking Classes

RUNNER UP Best Latte

RUNNER UP Best Coffee Shop

RUNNER UP Best Gourmet/Specialty Food Shop

RUNNER UP Best Gift Shop

RUNNER UP Best Place to Buy Greeting Cards/Stationery

5eleven Palafox

WINNER Best Special Event Space

RUNNER Up Best Reception Venue

Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel

RUNNER UP Best Boutique Hotel/Inn

RUNNER UP Best Place for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay

Best Reason to Attend a Blue Wahoos Game

WINNER Fireworks

RUNNERS UP Food, Roach Run, View

BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE

Winner: Pensacola Picnic Co.

Jackson's Steakhouse

Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor Marina

Pensacola Beach

BEST PLACE TO BUY AN ENGAGEMENT RING

Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop

Beré Jewelers

Elebash's Jewelers

Susan Campbell Jewelry

BEST CEREMONY VENUE

Winner: Live Oak Pensacola

Beaches & Bouquets

Sowell Farms

Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

BEST RECEPTION VENUE

Winner: Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

5eleven Palafox

Live Oak Pensacola

The Orchards of Molino

BEST OFFICIANT

Winner: Bryan Adams

Lenaha Day

Jim Locke

Kevin S. Tillman

BEST BRIDAL STORE

Winner: The Bridal Loft

The Bridal Suite

Nixon's

Simply Elegant Couture Bridal

BEST PLACE TO RENT A TUX

Winner: Gent's Formal Wear

Don Alans

Nixon's

Randall's Formal Wear

BEST BRIDAL MAKEUP ARTIST

Winner: Kendall Frazee (Skin by Kendall Lyn)

Hayley Gurney (Gulf Coast Glam House)

Kendra Korn (Kendra K Beauty)

Karla Yepez (Karlatina B+F)

BEST WEDDING HAIR SALON

Winner: The Powder Room

Hair + Co

Sharp and the Swann

Volume ONE

BEST WEDDING HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Chelsey Swann (Sharp and the Swann)

Kendra Korn (Kendra K Beauty)

Amanda Mendoza (Hair + Co)

Tonya Penrose (The Powder Room)

BEST WEDDING PLANNER/COORDINATOR

Winner: Fete + Flora Events

Lauren Rawls (at Hilton Pensacola Beach)

Southern Frills Weddings & Events

Supposey

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner: Aislinn Kate Weddings

Phocus & Company

PV Cobia Photography

Rae West Photography

BEST PHOTOBOOTH

Winner: Phocus & Company

The Posey Bus

Southern Frills Weddings & Events

Tude Photobooth Co.

BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY

Winner: StoryLive Productions

Crash Media Productions

Higgins Photo and Film

Phocus & Company

BEST WEDDING BAND

Winner: Nobius

Ben Loftin & The Family

Marvelous Strings

The Six Piece Suits

BEST WEDDING DJ

Winner: DJ TreVy

AnyDayDJ

DJ Phatchi & Co.

Southbay Event Group

BEST WEDDING CATERER

Winner: Culinary Productions, Inc.

Classic City Catering

Conchitas Catering

Nancy's Catering & Events

BEST WEDDING CAKE

Winner: Betty Weber Cakes

Craft Bakery

Kate's Cakes

Sami Kaye's Cakery

BEST WEDDING FLORIST

Winner: Chrissy Floral Design

Fete + Flora Events

Fiore of Pensacola

Florals by Mallori

BEST WEDDING RENTALS

Winner: Sexton's Event Company

Events Styled by LUXE

Hemstitch Rentals

WeddingWalls

BEST WEDDING PARTY TRANSPORTATION

Winner: Supposey

Beach Bum Trolley

Five Flags Trolley Co.

Pensacola Party Bus

BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING GIFT

Winner: Artesana duh for garden and home

Pensacola Hardware

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

Winner: Sandy Sansing

Frontier Motors

Kia Autosport of Pensacola

Pete Moore Automotive Team

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Winner: Ride MORE Bicycles

Bikes Plus

CycleSports Bicycles

Trek Bicycle Store Pensacola

BEST BOUTIQUE

Winner: SoBo Boutique

Bluetique

Gray Boutique

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST MEN'S APPAREL

Winner: Garden Street Vintage Coastal Kicks

Don Alans

Waterboyz

BEST WOMEN'S APPAREL

Winner: SoBo Boutique

Aleuma

Bluetique

Rocket To Saturn Vintage

BEST CHILDREN'S APPAREL & GIFTS

Winner: Artesana Baby & Child

Once Upon A Child Pensacola

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

Sparkle

BEST ACCESSORIES

Winner: Glassy Day Studio

The Crafted Makerie

SoBo Boutique

The Stellar Maker

BEST THRIFT STORE

Winner: Waterfront Thrift Store

Back To The Rack Thrift Store

Marcus Pointe Thrift Store

Teen Challenge Super Thrift

BEST ATHLETIC/OUTDOOR STORE

Winner: Running Wild

Pure Pilates

Waterboyz

Weatherford's

BEST FURNITURE/HOME DECOR STORE

Winner: All About Antiques

duh for garden and home

Haus of Hue

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST ANTIQUES

Winner: Blue Moon Antique Mall

All About Antiques

Oooodles Antiques

Rosie's Antique Emporium

BEST VINTAGE SHOP/SELLER

Winner: Rocket To Saturn Vintage

Garden Street Vintage

The Hippie's Greenhouse

Sporadic Vintage

BEST MAKER/ARTISAN

Winner: The Stellar Maker

Blue House Curio

Pensacola Candle Co.

Thorn + Thistle Co.

BEST GIFT SHOP

Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile

Artesana

Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe

Celebrations The Florist

BEST PLACE TO BUY GREETING

CARDS/STATIONERY

Winner: Charlotte Mason

Printing Company

Artesana

Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST BOOKSTORE

Winner: Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe

Black Bookstore & Cafe

The Idle Reader

Open Books

BEST COMIC BOOK STORE

Winner: TBS Comics

Area 51

Necroptik: Comics & Collectibles

Pensacola Pop Comics

BEST TOY/COLLECTABLE STORE

Winner: Hyperspace Toys

Ben's Card World

Level Up Gaming

Video Game Trading Post

BEST NEW STORE

Winner: Mrs. Jones Cold Brew and The Idle Reader

The Curb.

Easy Going Records + Hifi

First City Bee Company

BEST JEWELER

Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop

Beré Jewelers

Elebash's Jewelers

Susan Campbell Jewelry

BEST SURF/SKATE SHOP

Winner: Waterboyz

Bear Walker Skateshop

Innerlight Surf Shop

Maverick Board Riding Company

BEST NURSERY/PLANTS

Winner: Bailey's Produce & Nursery

B&C Nursery

Jade Tree Succulents

Pensacola Seed & Garden

BEST HARDWARE STORE

Winner: Pensacola Hardware

ACE Hardware of Gulf Breeze

Hall's Hardware & Lumber

Pensacola Habitat for Humanity ReStore

BEST COMPUTER/TECH STORE

Winner: Palafox Computers

Tech Advanced Computers

The Tech Handyman

Technologies For Tomorrow, Inc.

BEST MUSIC GEAR/INSTRUMENTS

Winner: Blues Angel Music

A Joyful Noise Music Store

Leitz Music

Schmidt's Music

BEST RECORD STORE

Winner: Revolver Records

Easy Going Records + Hifi

Loe-Fi Records

Music Box Pensacola

BEST LIQUOR STORE

Winner: Richey's East

ABC Fine Wine & Spirits

Fusion Fine Wine & Spirits

Paradise Liquors

BEST WINE SHOP

Winner: Aragon Wine Market + Wine Bar

The Bottle Shop

A Curious Wine Shop

Green Thumb Wines

BEST WINE TASTINGS

Winner: Aragon Wine Market + Wine Bar

The Bottle Shop

A Curious Wine Shop

The East Hill Bottle Shop

BEST GROCERY STORE

Winner: Ever'man Cooperative

Grocery & Cafe

Apple Market

Bailey's Produce & Nursery

Shoreline Foods International Market & Deli

BEST PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE

Winner: Bailey's Produce & Nursery

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

The Farm

Palafox Market

BEST INTERNATIONAL FOOD MARKET

Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli

Four Winds International Food Market

Merefa Eastern Europe Grocery Store

Tony's Asian Market

BEST GOURMET/SPECIALTY FOOD SHOP

Winner: Costello's Butcher Shop

Bodacious Olive

Four Winds International Food Market

Joe Patti's Seafood

BEST BAR OVERALL

Winner: Sister Hen

Alga Beer Co.

Intermission

Old Hickory Whiskey Bar

BEST NIGHT CLUB

Winner: Seville Quarter

Blend Lounge

The Cabaret

The Handlebar

BEST BAR–DOWNTOWN

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

Intermission

The Kennedy Play

BEST BAR–CORDOVA AREA

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

George Bistro + Bar

O'Riley's Uptown Tavern

Wisteria Tavern

BEST BAR–NORTH

PENSACOLA/NINE MILE ROAD

Winner: Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Coastal County Brewing

Sammy Barker's

The Ticket Sports Bar 2

BEST BAR–WEST

PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY

Winner: The Grid Arcade

The Elbow Room

Gary's Brewery & Biergarten

Hub Stacey's at The Point

BEST BAR–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: Sneaky Tiki Bar

Casino Beach Bar & Grille

Paradise Bar & Grill

Sandshaker

BEST BAR–MILTON/PACE

Winner: Beardless Brewhaus

The Country Gym

Gulf Coast Garage Patio Bar

The Prost Office Brewery

BEST NEW BAR

Winner: The Burrow

B Side

Pearl & Horn

Señor Frog's Pensacola Beach

BEST DRINK SPECIALS

Winner: Play

Intermission

The Kennedy

The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST DAY DRINKING

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

The Burrow

Garden & Grain

Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST DRINK MENU

Winner: Sister Hen

The Kennedy

Pearl & Horn

Union Public House

BEST DAIQUIRIS/FROZEN DRINKS

Winner: Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar

Perennial Patio Bar

Sandshaker

The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST BUSHWACKER

Winner: Sandshaker

Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar

The Dock

Paradise Bar & Grill

BEST BLOODY MARY

Winner: Ruby Slipper Cafe

Aunt Katie's

Five Sisters Blues Café

George Bistro + Bar

BEST MIMOSA

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Brother Fox

McGuire's Irish Pub

Ruby Slipper Cafe

BEST MARTINI

Winner: The Kennedy

Pearl & Horn

Sister Hen

Restaurant IRON

BEST SELECTION OF WINE

Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox

Agapi Bistro + Garden

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Restaurant IRON

BEST MARGARITA

Winner: Garden & Grain

Juan's Flying Burrito

Mama's Tacos

Taco Agave

BEST SIGNATURE DRINK

Winner: Mari-Gold Rush (Pearl & Horn)

Gingerfication (Sister Hen)

Huckleberry Lemonade (200 South Tap House)

King Koopa (Play)

BEST NA DRINK OPTIONS

Winner: Union Public House

George Bistro + Bar

The Kennedy

Pearl & Horn

BEST BREWERY

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

Alga Beer Co.

Emerald Republic Brewing Co.

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST SELECTION OF BEER ON TAP

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

200 South Tap House

Alga Beer Co.

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST BAR STAFF

Winner: Play

Alga Beer Co.

Odd Colony Brewing Company

Sister Hen

BEST BARTENDER

Winner: Daisy Davis (Harry Roy)

Troy Mathis (Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse)

Toni Pierce (Intermission)

Chloe Stibolt (Sister Hen)

BEST DJ

Winner: dr0ne

Albert Lao

Alejandro SinFin Perez

DJ Tiger

BEST DRAG PERFORMER

Winner: Terrah Card

Monica Heart

Kendyll Michaels

Lauren Mitchell

BEST SPORTS BAR

Winner: Badlands Roadside Bar

200 South Tap House

Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

The Ticket Sports Bar 2

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

The Burrow

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Wisteria Tavern

BEST PET-FRIENDLY BAR

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

Beardless Brewhaus

Coastal County Brewing

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST HOTEL BAR

Winner: Sister Hen (at Lily Hall)

Paradise Bar & Grill (at Paradise Inn)

Riptides Grill & Tiki Bar

(at Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach)

Sal de Mar (at Hilton Pensacola Beach)

BEST BAR WITH A VIEW

Winner: Casino Beach Bar & Grille

Calvert's in the Heights

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST BAR AMBIANCE

Winner: Sister Hen

The Burrow

The Elbow Room

The Well

BEST BAR FOR GAMES

Winner: Play

Alga Beer Co.

The Elbow Room

Intermission

BEST TRIVIA NIGHT

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

Beardless Brewhaus

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

Wisteria Tavern

BEST KARAOKE NIGHT

Winner: The Handlebar

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Play

Seville Quarter

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC

Winner: The Handlebar

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Paradise Bar & Grill

Seville Quarter

BEST BAR FOOD

Winner: The Kennedy

Brown Bagger (at Alga Beer Co. and

Gulf Coast Garage Patio Bar)

The Burrow

The Elbow Room

Restaurants

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

The Burrow

Pearl & Horn

Restaurant IRON

BEST RESTAURANT–DOWNTOWN

Winner: Restaurant IRON

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Carmen's Lunch Bar

Union Public House

BEST RESTAURANT–CORDOVA AREA

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

O'Brien's Bistro

Sake Cafe

The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria

BEST RESTAURANT–EAST HILL

Winner: The Burrow

Bonelli's

Cactus Flower Cafe

East Hill Pizza

BEST RESTAURANT–NORTH

PENSACOLA/NINE MILE ROAD

Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Lost Pizza Co.

Sammy Barker's

BEST RESTAURANT–WEST

PENSACOLA/PERDIDO KEY

Winner: Tacos El Fluffy

Fisherman's Corner

The Jellyfish

Taste of Jerusalem & More

BEST RESTAURANT–EAST

PENSACOLA HEIGHTS

Winner: Agapi Bistro + Garden

Aunt Katie's

Calvert's in the Heights

New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST RESTAURANT–GULF BREEZE

Winner: The Pointe

Lao Ocean

Taco Rock

Taste of Thai

BEST RESTAURANT–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: The Grand Marlin

Flounder's Chowder House

Native Cafe

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST RESTAURANT–MILTON/PACE

Winner: Blackwater Bistro

850 Barbecue

Brown Bagger (at Gulf Coast Garage Patio Bar)

The Fishing Hole

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Winner: Pearl & Horn

A Mano Panino

The Burrow

P'cola Bistro

BEST BAKERY

Winner: Craft Bakery

J's Bakery and Cafe

The Makery

Milton Quality Bakery

BEST BREAKFAST

Winner: Aunt Katie's

Coffee Cup Restaurant

Native Cafe

P'cola Bistro

BEST BRUNCH

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Brother Fox

Ruby Slipper Cafe

Union Public House

BEST LUNCH

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

The Fish House

Hub Stacey's

Nomadic Eats

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Winner: MI SU Street Food

Brown Bagger

Nomadic Eats

O.G. Lola's

BEST GREEK CUISINE

Winner: Greek's Catering and Events

Founaris Bros. Greek Restaurant

Hip Pocket Deli

Zaytouna Greek and Lebanese

BEST MEXICAN CUISINE

Winner: Cactus Flower Cafe

Taco Rock

Tacos El Fluffy

Taqueria El Asador

BEST ITALIAN CUISINE

Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Bonelli's

Petrella's Italian Cafe

The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria

BEST CAJUN CUISINE

Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill

Cafe Nola

Cub's Crawfish

Restaurant NOLA

BEST CHINESE CUISINE

Winner: Xian Noodle Place

Chen's Kitchen

House of Chong

New Hong Kong House

BEST JAPANESE CUISINE

Winner: Sake Cafe

Ichiban

Kalbi Ichiban

Tokyo Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

BEST THAI CUISINE

Winner: SaBai on Jefferson

Siam Thai

Taste of Thai

Thai Curry House

BEST INDIAN CUISINE

Winner: Taste of India

Dinner India

Indian Grill

Sree's Kitchen

BEST VIETNAMESE CUISINE

Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli

Basil & Sprout

Pho Golden Palace

Tu-Do

BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN CUISINE

Winner: End of the Line Cafe

Carmen's Lunch Bar

O.G. Lola's

SaBai on Jefferson

BEST SUSHI

Winner: Sake Cafe

Dharma Blue

Ichiban

Khon's on Palafox

BEST GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

Pearl & Horn

BEST SEAFOOD

Winner: Pearl & Horn

The Fish House

The Grand Marlin

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse

BarSteak

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST BBQ

Winner: Hot Spot Barbecue

850 Barbecue

Brothers BBQ

VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST SOUL FOOD

Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café

The Dwarf (Legendary "Chicken Stand")

Family Ty's Good Eats

Hattie Marie's Cafe

BEST WINE MENU

Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Carmen's Lunch Bar

Restaurant IRON

BEST ORIGINAL MENU

Winner: Restaurant IRON

The Burrow

Pearl & Horn

Union Public House

BEST CHEF

Winner: George Lazi (George Bistro + Bar)

Darian Hernandez (Brother Fox)

Alex McPhail (Restaurant IRON)

Amy Potmesil (The Burrow)

BEST UP-AND-COMING CHEF

Winner: Mary Dee Moralita (O.G. Lola's)

Elijah Cook (Sauce Boss Burger Co.)

Eric Michael (Steel Pony Diner)

Cooper Moore (The Burrow)

BEST WAIT STAFF

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

The Burrow

Jackson's Steakhouse

Restaurant IRON

BEST WAITER

Winner: Ryan Seeley

(Pearl & Horn and The Grand Marlin)

Ares Ensell (Restaurant IRON)

Max Gerke (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano)

Alex Whisenhunt (Brother Fox)

BEST WAITRESS

Winner: Maddie Myers (SaBai on Jefferson)

Cori Perez Holden (Carmen's Lunch Bar)

Danielle Pfeiffer (Restaurant IRON)

Crystal Stewart (Pearl & Horn)

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Winner: Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

Bodacious Brew

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Mrs. Jones Cold Brew

BEST BARISTA

Winner: Kaleb Libby

(Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar)

Heather Bowman

(Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar)

Angela Rasmussen

(Formerly at Pacific Kava Bar)

Seb Wynn (Jitterbug Beverage Co.)

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Winner: The Fish House

The Burrow

Calvert's in the Heights

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

BEST PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Winner: Coastal County Brewing

Hub Stacey's

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

Lucy's in the Square

BEST TAKEOUT/TO GO

Winner: East Hill Pizza

SaBai on Jefferson

Sauce Boss Burger Co.

VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE

Winner: Restaurant IRON

George Bistro + Bar

Pearl & Horn

Union Public House

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BIRTHDAY DINNER

Winner: Union Public House

Global Grill

McGuire's Irish Pub

Restaurant IRON

BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPORTS FANS

Winner: Sammy Barker's

200 South Tap House

The Pointe

Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

BEST LATE NIGHT EATS

Winner: The Elbow Room

Graffiti Pizza

McGuire's Irish Pub

Sauce Boss Burger Co.

BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

Winner: McGuire's Irish Pub

The Fish House

The Grand Marlin

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST GONE-BUT-NOTFORGOTTEN RESTAURANT

Winner: Kingfisher

chizuko

The Magnolia

Nom Sushi Izakaya

Food

BEST UNIQUELY PENSACOLA DISH

Winner: Grits à Ya Ya

(The Fish House)

Fried Red Snapper Collar

(Pearl & Horn)

MI SU Melt (MI SU Street Food)

Spanish Crab Melt (Carmen's Lunch Bar)

BEST CUP OF COFFEE

Winner: Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

Fosko Coffee Barre

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

The Rex Cafe

BEST COLD BREW

Winner: Mrs. Jones Cold Brew

Alla Prima Coffee Roaster

Bear Fruit Bowls & Coffee

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

BEST LATTE

Winner: Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Bodacious Brew

Craft Bakery

Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

BEST ICED TEA

Winner: Sweet Jackson Tea

Carmen's Lunch Bar

Craft Bakery

Nomadic Eats

BEST JUICES/SMOOTHIES

Winner: The Daily Squeeze

Cafe Single Fin

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

Sean's Smoothie Shack

BEST PIZZA

Winner: Sky's Pizza Pie

East Hill Pizza

Flour-ish Food Truck

Graffiti Pizza

BEST STEAK

Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

McGuire's Irish Pub

Restaurant IRON

BEST BURRITO

Winner: Juan's Flying Burrito

Cactus Flower Cafe

Taco Rock

Tacos El Fluffy

BEST TACO

Winner: Taqueria El Asador

Mama's Tacos

Tacos El Fluffy

Tacos Mexicanos

BEST SOUP

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

McGuire's Irish Pub

New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST DELI

Winner: New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

Costello's Butcher Shop

Deli Dudes

Four Winds International Food Market

BEST BREAD

Winner: Craft Bakery

Casita Bread

Local Thyme Bakery

Kneady's Bakery

BEST SANDWICH

Winner: L'Obbligato (A Mano Panino)

Hot Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich (The Burrow)

The LaRua (Hub Stacey's)

Spanish Crab Melt (Carmen's Lunch Bar)

BEST CHICKEN SALAD

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

Craft Bakery

Jo's As Always

New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST BURGER

Winner: MI SU Street Food

Brown Bagger

Proper Burger

Sauce Boss Burger Co.

BEST HOT DOG

Winner: The Dog House

The Elbow Room

Sammy Barker's

The Wacked Out Weiner

BEST APPETIZERS

Winner: Union Public House

Atlas Oyster House

The Burrow

Global Grill

BEST PASTRIES

Winner: Craft Bakery

Casita Bread

Local Thyme Bakery

Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

BEST BREAKFAST DISH/MENU ITEM

Winner: The Gulf Coast Seafood Omelet (Native Cafe)

Eggs Cochon (Ruby Slipper Cafe)

Khachapuri (Craft Bakery)

Monica's Morning Burritos (Aunt Katie's)

BEST GRITS

Winner: The Fish House

Aunt Katie's

Coffee Cup Restaurant

George Bistro + Bar

BEST DONUTS

Winner: Parlor Doughnuts

Más Que Dulces

Maynard's Donut Co.

Milton Quality Bakery

BEST FRENCH FRIES

Winner: Sauce Boss Burger Co.

George Bistro + Bar

Greek's Catering and Events

MI SU Street Food

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Winner: MI SU Street Food

The Dwarf (Legendary "Chicken Stand")

Five Sisters Blues Café

What the Cluck Chicken Truck

BEST WINGS

Winner: What the Cluck Chicken Truck

Hub Stacey's

Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST OYSTERS

Winner: Pearl & Horn

Atlas Oyster House

The Grand Marlin

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST SALADS

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar

The Daily Squeeze

End of the Line Cafe

Union Public House

BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN DISH

Winner: Chef Salad

(End of the Line Cafe)

Chef's Curry (SaBai on Jefferson)

Moroccan Vegetable Curry

(Carmen's Lunch Bar)

O.G. Pancit (O.G. Lola's)

BEST DESSERTS

Winner: Chrisoula's Cheesecake Shoppe

End of the Line Cafe

Flour-ish Food Truck

Union Public House

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN

YOGURT/GELATO

Winner: Lamonte Gelato

Fannie Lou's Ice Cream

Wild Honey Frozen Yogurt

BEST CAKES/CUPCAKES

Winner: Craft Bakery

Kate's Cakes

Más Que Dulces

Moonbeam Bakery

BEST COOKIES

Winner: Annie's Naked Cookies

Craft Bakery

Itsa Cookie

Pretty Baked (at Cafe Single Fin)

BEST LUNCH SPECIALS

Winner: Nomadic Eats

Carmen's Lunch Bar

East Hill Pizza

SaBai on Jefferson

BEST WEEKLY SPECIAL

Winner: Green Bucket Sundays (The Farm)

Biscuit Saturdays (Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar)

Hot Shrimp Fridays (Nomadic Eats)

Wing Wednesdays

(What the Cluck Chicken Truck)

BEST COOKING CLASSES

Winner: Bodacious Shops

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

Jackson's Steakhouse

BEST FOOD MANUFACTURER

Winner: The Hummus Lady

The Black Garlic Market

The Sealey Sauce Company

Whim Cotton Candy

BEST BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER

Winner: Big Jerk Soda Co.

DrinkPensacola

Mrs. Jones Cold Brew

Sweet Jackson Tea

BEST MOBILE BEVERAGE SERVICE

Winner: The Thirsty Ranch

The Coffee Cabin Co.

LaTeeLa

Tap the Coast

Pensacola Cooks Commissary and Classroom

Community, Media & Culture

309 PUNK PROJ ECT

309 N. Sixth Ave., 309punkproject.org

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? 309 Punk Project brings diverse culture to Pensacola while highlighting our beautiful and brilliant counterculture through our Artist-inResidence program, 309 Punk Archives, events and more.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We are constantly inspired by our friends and colleagues in the countercultural arts, but especially the punks. They present a diversity of style and unique approach to being that we love. Each Artist-in-Residence that comes through 309 leaves a bit of their heart behind, and they all enrich the project. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  The general love and respect for diversity, whether it be race and gender, but also the different generations. Thinking of recent shows that we've done, we can easily see the importance of this in our community and how critical it is to Pensacola, especially now.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We hope to expand our Artist-in-Residence program, build our archives and make the recording studio in the back more functional. We also hope to work closer with our neighbors in our bigger events, like Night on the Tracks and various community projects, such as book publishing, recording and maybe radio.

Answers by: Scott Satterwhite, Co-Executive Director

FIRST DANCE BALLROOM STUDIO

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, firstdanceballroomstudio.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Little studio with big dreams doing big things. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  I want to make a difference in our community. I believe the more good you do the more good you are surrounded by. I want to be the best I can be so I can make my students the best they can be.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We have the best community. Everyone is so fun and so different. We are a place where people from different backgrounds can come together and create something beautiful. And they are all so brave. They get out there and shake it and have a great time.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our Fourth Annual Greatest Showcase on July 27, benefiting the Children's Home Society; Jan. 4, Wishes, benefiting Sunset Wildlife Connection; July 29, 2025, Fifth Annual Greatest Showcase benefiting the Children's Home Society. All held at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre.

Answers by: Margaret Takacs, Owner and Founder

FOO FOO FEST

foofoofest.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Foo Foo Fest is a 12-day celebration each fall with culturally creative happenings, events and moments under one banner in Pensacola.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Allowing our local arts and cultural organizations the opportunity to highlight the amazing talent that we have here in Pensacola by providing grant funding that allows them to create compelling and unique events that attract visitors to the area each fall.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Hearing from visitors how unique the festival is, how cool the concept is and how much they enjoy and/or enjoyed taking part in one or many of the events offered each fall. We also love that our local community has grown to look forward to this event each fall. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? For the second year in a row, we allocated nearly $500,000 in grant funding to 13 deserving organizations that are producing amazing events for our 11th annual Foo Foo Festival, Oct. 31-Nov. 11. Answers by: Therese Felth McKenzie, Chairperson

HERETICS' SOCIAL CLUB hereticssocialclub.buzzsprout.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Heretics' Social Club is a godless podcast about God. It's like a church for people that don't like church.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? After enduring many years of psychological abuse and torture from fellow evangelicals, we decided to start talking about the possibility that the entire concept might just be contrived to facilitate a network of abusers. It's mostly the feeling of wanting to undo a lifetime of brainwashing that keeps us going.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We love our listeners because a lot of them write in telling their stories. We did an episode recently about a teen cult, and several former members reached out to thank us for validating the insanity they experienced. It feels good knowing that someone else thinks church is weird. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We'd like to eventually start hosting literal support group meetings for survivors of church abuse. A safe place for heathens to share healthy communication about their lived experiences. Also a place to laugh at things like how the song "Arky Arky" never ever leaves your brain.

Answers by: Shauncey Fury, Dudeist Priest

IMPROVABLE CAUSE improvablecause.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola's premier improv comedy troupe. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We've been entertaining audiences along the Gulf Coast for more than 18 years with our unique style of comedy. We truly have fun together, and it's great that audiences have been supporting us for so long.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We've had a consistent following mostly by word of mouth since 2005. We appreciate the continued support.

Voted Runner Up Best Weight Loss Program

LIFEVIEW GROUP

1221 W. Lakeview Ave., lifeviewgroup.org

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? LifeView Group is a nonprofit family of companies—Lakeview Center's behavioral health, FamiliesFirst Network's child welfare support and Global Connections to Employment's career services.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Because of our 2,500 team members from Florida to Alaska united under one mission of helping people, those with mental illnesses and substance use disorders can get the treatment they need, people with disabilities can find employment and children who have experienced abuse or neglect can know safety and stability. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  LifeView Group is dedicated to supporting some of the most vulnerable populations in our community—abused and neglected children, people with disabilities and those struggling with mental illness or substance misuse. Our compassionate team walks alongside those we serve as they overcome life's challenges and reach their fullest potential. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our vision is to be the trusted partner. LifeView Group looks forward to collaborating with other agencies, nonprofits and community leaders to improve the quality of life in our region—addressing mental healthcare, job opportunities and support for families struggling to stay together.

Answers by: Allison Hill, CEO

LOCAL PULSE

localpulse.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Local Pulse Pensacola is an online #goodnewsonly source of information that reflects the heartbeat of our city. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Digital trauma is an experience that most have had and we are dedicated to offering a news experience that is #goodnewsonly so that readers have a respite when it is needed. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? When we first launched, I remember someone saying, "You will never run out of good news stories in Pensacola." And they were right. Every day we receive messages and emails that share beautiful stories about Pensacolans making a difference in our community and the world.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Our goal for 2025 is to find more opportunities to make Local Pulse Pensacola more interactive and immersive in our community.

Answers by: Lisa Long Lyter, Partner and Editor in Chief

MICHELLE SALZMAN, FLORIDA HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE

3212 S. Highway 95-A, michellesalzmanforhouse.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? As a state lawmaker, my most important duty is to connect my community with the resources they seek. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My community inspires me every day.

Being with the various organizations and seeing their impact energizes me to do more. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? I'm appreciative of our philanthropic mindset. Our community is always willing to invest in itself, making it so easy for me to fight for more funding in Tallahassee. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My big focus is empowering our local hospitals and healthcare providers by creating more meaningful funding as well as adjusting policies to better serve our state. I am seeking continued growth in my leadership role at the state level, so I can continue the momentum of filling healthcare disparities.

Answers by: Michelle Salzman

NEIGHBORHOOD

CHILDREN'S THEATRE

2800 Wilde Lake Blvd., neighborhoodchildrenstheatre.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Engaging electives, education and entertainment for children and children at heart.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our students. Our hope is that we teach our students more than just theatre, but skills and values that they can take beyond the classroom, such as the big C's: courage, confidence, compassion and collaboration. Additionally, our teachers model integrity and excellence in everything that we do.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  The wonderful thing about our "customers" is that they're not customers— they're family. We see our students (including their parents and siblings) every single week, which allows us a unique opportunity to build relationships with all of them, and we love that so much.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We have just chartered a troupe within the International Thespian Society, a theatre honors society for middle and high schoolers. We are so excited for our students to participate in theatre festivals at the district and state levels.

Answers by: Kayla May, Executive Director

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE

400 S. Jefferson St., pensacolalittletheatre.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be?

PLT—the community's theatre.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The best part of community theatre is community. The volunteer artists, from the actors to the stage managers and costumers create something meaningful simply to improve the quality of life for our community. They inspire us all every day to hone in on the "why" of what we do: community.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our patrons show up and show out. They believe in us and the stories that we tell, because they understand every story deserves to be told. Someone in the audience can quickly become someone behind the scenes, and I appreciate the symbiotic sense of community we've built together throughout The Center.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  PLT is always stirring up drama—and we're elevating your artistic experience as we create Pensacola's

premier rooftop performance venue. The sweeping views of Pensacola Bay and downtown are going to forever change the footprint the arts and culture leave in our area at The Top of The Center.

Answers by:

Sid Williams-Heath, CEO

PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART

407 S. Jefferson St., pensacolamuseum.org

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Facilitating the preservation, understanding and engagement of visual culture for our visitors and members through our permanent collection, dynamic exhibits, interpretive programs, academic research and education.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The vibrant energy of our community fuels our passion to offer exceptional art experiences for our visitors and members. Our commitment to local and regional artists inspires us to produce the highest quality exhibits, engaging programming and education classes to foster more creative minds.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? From young to old, locals to tourists, we love to see the diversity of our visitors at the museum. It is wonderful to see the ways that art touches different individuals and to witness the transcendent power that different mediums of art have on all visitors.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? 2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the Pensacola Museum of Art becoming an art center in Pensacola. We plan to celebrate this milestone with the community through special events at Foo

Foo Fest and with a permanent collection exhibit called Celebrate 70 which is on view now.

Answers by: Claire Stewart, Director of Marketing

PENSACOLA OPERA

75 S. Tarragona St., pensacolaopera.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Enriching the culture of Northwest Florida through professional opera performances, educational programs and other opera-related community events for people of all ages, interests and backgrounds.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The very nature of opera is to bring the best of multiple art forms together into one beautiful work. We uphold high artistic standards in order to present programming that is worthy of our patrons' time, money and emotions. Also—we just love opera and the people who create it. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? As a nonprofit, we couldn't survive without the support of our community. Whether that's purchasing a season subscription, attending a concert, raising a paddle or being a volunteer—it takes so many people to make art happen. We're fortunate to have such a supportive patron base and community here in Pensacola. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Season 42 is right around the corner. We'll be presenting two classic operas in our mainstage season, while producing and premiering two new works this season; one will be presented in schools and libraries this fall, and the other will be a part of this year's Foo Foo Festival. Stay tuned.

Answers by: Alex

Hilkey,

Director of Marketing and Communications

Health & Wellness

THE ANCHOR CLINIC

890 S. Palafox St., Ste. 300, anchorclinic.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? My practice within the Anchor Clinic focuses on psychiatric medication management for first-time adults, young professionals and open minds. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? It's all about the results. Breaking the stigma so psychiatric medications can be viewed as a tool, not a crutch. Watching folks give themselves permission to make the changes necessary to create the life they deserve. Witnessing my patients experience a reclamation of self-worth and authenticity is always so inspirational. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their patience with me. Psychiatry is a science, but in many ways, an art. Medication should always be tailored to the individual; there is no one-size-fits-all version of mental healthcare. Willingness to be an active participant in their treatment plan is always appreciated. We do it together.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? The Anchor Clinic also offers neuropsychological testing and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation treatment at our downtown Pensacola and Navarre locations.

Answers by: T. Katie Perry, APRN

COMMUNITY HEALTH

NORTHWEST FLORIDA

2315 W. Jackson St., healthcarewithinreach.org

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Community. It's just what we do.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? What we love about our patients is they are our community. Anyone can take advantage of our services, whether they have insurance or not. We have great pediatric services, dental, behavioral health, Dr. Smith's Center for Senior Wellness and four full-service pharmacies. And when you fill a prescription at our pharmacy, it helps support community programs. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Because we are from the neighborhoods we serve, our patients are like family.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? CHNWF just announced the establishment of its philanthropic entity, the Community Health Northwest Florida Foundation. The Foundation will operate as a charitable organization, incorporated separately from Community Health Northwest Florida, focused on supporting patients, diagnostic testing and programs.

Answers by: Sena Maddison, Director of Communications

EMERALD COAST MEDICAL GROUP

2120 E. Johnson Ave., Ste. 100, emeraldcoastmedgroup.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Providing quality, compassionate, personal care. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Medicine has always been my passion. When you come to work and enjoy what you do it doesn't feel like work. We don't strive to be the best; we focus more on delivering quality, compassionate, personal care.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? It is always about relationships. Primary care allows us the unique opportunity to truly walk with a patient through their ever-changing healthcare requirements. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? As our practice continues to grow, we are focusing on keeping the quality of medicine, not the quantity. We are all dedicated to continued learning and educating our patients on how a healthy lifestyle is always the best medicine.

Answers by: Dr. Kacey Gibson, D.O., Provider

EVOLVE MEDICAL

24 N. Tarragona St., evolvemedicalcare.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Medically managed weight loss clinic serving the states of Florida and Alabama with telehealth and in-person availability.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The inspiration for our success comes from empowering individuals to take control of their health and to improve their quality.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We love how dedicated our clients are to the program. Through developing strong patient-provider relationships we form invaluable bonds and are able to leave an impact that lasts a lifetime.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our goal is to continue improving the health of our community and to continue practicing evidence-based medicine in the weight loss industry.

Answers

by:

Kaitlin Graye, APRN, FNP-C

TAMARA DRISKELL, ARYA THERAPY SERVICES

7004 Pine Forest Road, aryatherapy.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Anything but ordinary. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Life is too short not to make the most out of everything, including the work I do. I'm insanely passionate about helping others answer life's four sacred questions: "Who am I? Why am I here? Where am I going? And who's coming with me?"

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? My favorite clients love to go deep and can't stand settling for the mundane. I have a sweet spot for anxious and perfectionistic misfits and mystics who can sometimes trip themselves up striving to live authentically while connecting with others. They inspire me with their vision and drive.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? A book as well as several other digital offers that will expand my ability to reach those who need this sacred work the most.

Answers by: Tamara Driskell, LMHC, Owner

YOGA ABODE

iamabode.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Yoga Abode (pop-up studio) exists to make yoga possible to anyone, anywhere. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My amazing students (who have become like family) that show up every week to practice yoga with me.

29, 2024

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? I love my students/clients so much. I am beyond grateful they show up week after week to practice yoga with me. Their dedication to their practice on and off the mat is so inspiring. I learn and grow from them every time I teach a class.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? I am always dreaming of creative and fun yet meaningful pop-up yoga events to host. I invite you all to come practice yoga with me. Check out iamabode.com to see my upcoming classes and events.

Answers by: Donna Dickey, Founder

Services

A LL THINGS NIKKI

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, @allthings.nikki

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Our happiness stems from assisting others in discovering their own.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? When I can elevate a client from feeling okay to feeling fabulous with a great cut and color. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We are incredibly grateful for the amazing support we've received from our clients. Despite the challenges of Covid, the bridge being out and starting a salon during a family medical situation, our clients have stood by us with unwavering support and love.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? All Things Nikki was inspired by my passion for food, beauty, home and events. While I have mainly focused on beauty the past four years, I am excited about expanding into events in the future. My dream is to bring everything I love under one roof in a dedicated space.

Answers by: Nikki Hovanec Rice, Owner

ALPHA-LIT  alphalitletters.com/pensacola

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? You spell it, we light it up. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  We love lighting up this great Pensacola community.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Their support and repetitive business.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We will continue to be active in the community and support local nonprofits, as well as light up Pensacola and all the super fun events.

Answers by: Lea Richardson, Owner

AMBER JERNIGAN, EXP REALTY

amberjhomes.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? When you need a realtor, I'm your new best friend. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My kids. They're expensive and we have four of them.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Not just the trust they place in me to help them with their real estate needs, but that they also recommend me to their friends and families.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Becoming Inweekly's number one realtor in 2025.

Answers by: Amber Jernigan, Realtor

BECK

BLACKLEDGE, PLLC

127 S. Palafox St., Ste. 100, autumnobeck.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Guiding real people through real problems, while understanding they are spending real money.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Seeing the positive impact on families' lives and preparing clients for the next chapter inspires me to be my best. Each resolved case and satisfied client motivates me to continue improving and giving back to my community. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? My clients' resilience and trust. Their willingness to share their stories and place their faith in me during challenging times is truly inspiring. It's a privilege to support them through their legal journeys.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My next goal is to deepen community involvement by joining a nonprofit board that aligns with my interests, further extending my commitment to support and advocate for families.

Answers by: Hunter J. Hendrix, Senior Attorney

BASHES & BUBBLY

bashesandbubbly.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The Emerald Coast's premier business for luxury party decorating and concierge services. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  The joy and excitement of my clients when they see their dream party come to life.

Their reactions and the memories we create together push me to continually deliver my best work, alongside the most supportive family and friends.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Working mostly with clients nationwide, I appreciate their trust in my work from afar, their enthusiasm and of course, their ongoing support through the years. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Right now we are planning 18 parties simultaneously that are approaching in the next two months. We are looking forward to purchasing our own delivery van by 2025 and eventually purchasing a vacation rental "for the girls."

Answers by: Savannah Tims, Owner

BODYWORKS OF PERDIDO KEY

12385 Sorrento Road, Ste. D1, bodyworksofperdido.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Where healing meets heart. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Seeing the positive impact our services have on our guests' well-being and knowing that we can make a difference in their lives drives us to always strive for excellence. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  The trust and loyalty of our customers. Their continued support and belief in the holistic wellness journey inspire myself and my team to keep providing the best care and service. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're dreaming up

new ways to bring our spa to more places to serve our neighboring beach communities.

Answers by: Cindy Rodriguez, Founder and Owner

CAITLIN ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY

caitlinelizabethco.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Timeless photos and lifestyle storyteller specializing in families, couples, branding, weddings and studio portraits. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My ability to preserve precious moments for my clients keeps me going. Weaving together emotions, light and composition to create a captivating visual experience. Whether it's a tender embrace, a joyous celebration or a breathtaking landscape, I aim to preserve the beauty and significance of each moment. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? I have the best clients ever. I cannot thank them all enough for constantly recommending me to others, their loyalty to my business and the never-ending memories that I will never forget. I truly create bonds with my clients and I am very thankful for that, and them. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  To expand my studio space. The studio has taken off and revved up, thanks to you all. However, I'm not stopping there. I am working towards a bigger and better space for you all. I want this space to be eclectic, inviting and spacious. Coming soon.

Answers

by:

Caitlin E. Kersey, Owner, Lead Photographer and Creative Director

CANNON AUTOMOTIVE

1501 N. Palafox St., cannonautomotiveservice.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Cannon Automotive is here to provide you with the very best in quality car care on all makes and models, including vintage cars. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We take pride in our work and are excited to be a part of the revitalization and success of downtown Pensacola. Restoring this 1942 Sinclair Service Station and bringing it back to life for the community to enjoy has given us so much joy. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our customers have become lifelong friends. We appreciate their loyalty in following us from Gulf Breeze to Pensacola. It is a pleasure to help keep them driving their favorite cars.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We are lifetime learners and enjoy continuing education seminars where we learn about maintaining all types of cars, learning about new products and adding additional skills.

Answers by: Jeff Dearth, Owner

CELESTINE BED AND BREAKFAST

514 N. Baylen St., celestinebedandbreakfast.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Celestine Bed and Breakfast is an elegant and historic bed and breakfast in the heart of Pensacola. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We're a locally owned and operated family business named after our great grand-

mother, Celestine. We take pride in being a part of the Pensacola community and are honored to extend our guests the unmatched Southern hospitality we grew up with.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We have the most wonderful guests, from as close as downtown Pensacola to as far away as Norway. Our guests are kind, thoughtful and interested in having a local experience. We love hearing their stories over breakfast each morning.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are looking forward to collaborating with more small, locally owned businesses as we look to enhance our guests' experience and show them what Pensacola is all about.

Answers by: Cornelia Robinson Edwards, Co-Owner

CHRISTY KERR PHOTOGRAPHY

christykerrphotography.mypixieset.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Capturing milestones and preserving memories for future generations to cherish. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My inspiration stems from my desire to capture how I perceive the world, to highlight the beauty in the mundane, the extraordinary in the ordinary. It's not just about documenting reality; it's about sharing my vision with others, hoping to inspire them to see the world through a different lens.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The encouragement and support they provide. A few of my initial clients have consistently inspired and motivated me. I'm eternally thankful for them and for the clients I will have in the future.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My future aspiration is to capture elopements or destination weddings. Experiencing my own elopement in the Grand Canyon was truly enchanting. Becoming an elopement photographer would be a dream come true for me. Maybe one day it will become a reality.

Answers by: Christy Kerr, Owner and Photographer

CLARK PARTINGTON

125 E. Intendencia St., clarkpartington.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Clark Partington is a Gulf Coast law firm serving the legal needs of individuals and businesses, with offices in Pensacola, Destin, Santa Rosa Beach and Tallahassee.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  We stand on the shoulders of those who forged the success of our firm. We are shaped by our respect for this legacy and driven by the utmost desire to form lasting relationships with each other, our clients and the communities we serve.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  We are grateful and honored that our clients entrust us with the opportunity to serve them with respect to their legal needs. Fueled by passion and driven to excellence, we are committed to doing the right thing, at the right time, in the right way, for every client we serve.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? The his-

tory of our firm is in the future. Our legacy will be exceptional service to our clients and to our community. With the same zeal we serve our clients we commit to making the places we live and work a better place.

Answers by:

Cecily Kopytchak, Marketing Director

COASTAL VIBES MASSAGE THERAPY

400 E. Jackson St., coastalvibesmassage.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Five star, luxury, therapeutic face and body treatments in a full-service medical spa in historic East Hill. Your relaxation awaits.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Receiving quality therapeutic body work to maintain a healthy lifestyle is so important, and the ever-increasing demand for massage therapy inspires us to do our best for our community and clients. With a keen attention to detail, our unique spa treatments are designed to provide lasting results.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Our loyal customers have helped our business grow tremendously and have made us one of the top day spas in the Pensacola area. We appreciate their dedication to their health and wellness, and the smiles that our services bring to their faces. We thank you for your continued support.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  As we continue to grow and expand our business, we are looking to create entirely new and unique treatment options, promote our medical spa to increase our business visibility and continue educating ourselves and our community on the many different health benefits that massage therapy has to offer.

Answers by: Chris Kuhn, Owner and Massage Therapist

CORDOVA SKIN & BODY

5043 Bayou Blvd., cordovaskin.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The most experienced providers helping people look and feel their best. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Helping people to feel better, look better and have more confidence is what drives us.  What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our customers are the sweetest people. Loyal and grateful. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are going to keep adding new retail lines as well as some higher-end facial and body services.

Answers by: Becca, Spa Manager

DRAGONCAT TATTOO

417 N. De Villiers St., @dragoncattattoo

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Little bit of dragon. Little bit of cat. Whole lot of tattooing. Over 50 years of experience, with more than one million designs to choose from. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We just want our customers to be happy with their tattoos, so we try to do our best on everything. Even small dumb shit. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  We love the customers who communicate their expectations and let

us do the work to make it look how they wanted it to look. We like to exceed expectations, not budgets.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We'd like a garden and koi fish pond out back. Maybe a screened gazebo for tattooing on those cool evenings when the sun goes down, the music of the blocks mixes with chirping crickets. Somewhere down the block, a man screams something about a lawnmower? A boy can dream. Answers by: Shauncey Fury, Space Lord Mother Mother

FINE LINE INK PENSACOLA

4885 W. Spencerfield Road, finelineinkpensacola.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? I specialize in fine line tattoos, brow permanent makeup and faux freckles. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? I always strive for quality with my artwork on and off skin. I want my clients to be

love to learn more about realism in tattoos. I'd also love to venture into selling merchandise. Answers by: Amanda Kersh, Owner and Tattoo Artist

GULF WINDS CREDIT UNION

220 E. Nine Mile Road, gogulfwinds.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Helping our members and communities succeed financially.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The knowledge that we make a direct impact on our members' financial well-being. Gulf Winds was founded on a commitment to creating meaningful community impact, and we continue that legacy through meeting members where they are in their financial journeys. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We love that our members forge strong connections with us and allow our team to provide meaningful, personalized service. Our member-owners are engaged, speak their minds and help us to improve. This feedback cycle

HAIRY ALEX HORNE

2590 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 508, @hairyalexhorne

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A private, fun and safe space for hair collaboration between me and my client. I'm here to help you feel amazing in an open, honest and informative environment.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  I asked clients how my space made them feel, and they most often mentioned feeling calm, valued, relaxed, heard, loved, safe, happy, seen, refreshed and fabulous. I strive to provide my best to every client so that more people can start associating their hair, in general, with these positive feelings. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Big shout-out to clients who value my technical expertise while also cherishing my creative input. Amidst many talented stylists on the Gulf Coast, I'm humbled by and grateful to those who choose me repeatedly. As a solo entrepreneur, I also appreciate clients who respect my business boundaries. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  This year, I taught my first class on business structure, focusing on hourly rates with no gratuities. I helped some stylists switch to a simpler, gender-free approach, benefiting both them and clients. I'm eager to continue supporting stylists in earning a fair and forecastable salary while creating inclusive spaces for clients.

Alex Horne Garcia, Owner and Stylist

KELSEI FRAZIER

kelseifrazierphotography.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? From your wedding day to the birth of your baby, to everything in between—KFP is here to help capture life's precious moments. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Year after year I try to find something different to say, but honestly, my children and my husband are what inspires me. Because of them, I want to work harder and show them what community and creativity can be about. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  The way my clients trust me. Being in front of a camera isn't easy for most people, but the relationship I am able to build with my clients makes them family and they bring so much light to my life. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  This past year my dream of owning a few acres came true. Now that I have eight acres and space to bring clients to capture memories for them, I am looking at finally building my studio and making the perfect spot for everyone to come and enjoy.

Answers by: Kelsei Frazier, Owner and Photographer

KUHN REALTY

1718 N. Ninth Ave., kuhnrealty.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Kuhn Realty and its team are your local trusted advocates, allies and real estate advisors in Pensacola.

Wedding Cakes & Floral Cupcakes

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My family—Samantha, Scout, Stowe. My mom, dad, brothers and all our friends and our agents that have supported us from day one. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? They continue to choose our agents for their real estate services and continue to grow our real estate family.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Help our agents achieve their goals. Foster an environment that allows them to be there for our clients and meet their families' needs. Strive to be ambassadors for Pensacola so that we have healthy growth and development for our families to continue enjoying our coastal lifestyle for years to come.

Answers by: Larry Kuhn, Broker and Owner

LIGHT BRIGHT EVENTS  lightbrightevents.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Lighting up your event, one letter at a time. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Light is the symbol of joy and of life-giving power. Light is the reminder of the heart's capacity to overcome darkness and assurance of brighter days to come. I find so much joy in being a part of the light in other people's special moments.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? My clients give me the opportunity to build a family business that brightens up their events.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? It has been an honor to receive this award in our first year of business. Our goal is to continue our rapid growth into the future with dreams of opening multiple locations.

Answers by: Ashley Ranow, Owner

LOXBYLINDA

6289 N. Ninth Ave., @loxbylinda

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A hair stylist with a passion for creating bright, healthy blondes and color. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Having artistic freedom alongside a thorough understanding of color theory is what drives me to create the hair my clients love. Blonding/ hair coloring is more of a passion than a job. That's what inspires me to create and run my business. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  They say you attract a clientele that is like you, which I would say is true. All of my clients in their own way are great people. They make working something to look forward to. I'm grateful to my clients for supporting me and trusting me with their hair confidence.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  To take classes to further my knowledge with not only blonde and color but also extension methods.

Answers by: Linda Bryant, Owner

NAI PENSACOLA

24 W. Chase St., naipensacola.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? NAI Pensacola is a full-service commercial real estate company specializing in leasing, sales and property management. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  All of our agents offer concierge

service to our clients, guiding them through the challenging and often difficult process of buying, selling or managing a commercial property. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our clients provide us the opportunity to have different experiences every day. No two deals are alike and every transaction is an educational opportunity. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Our building was recently hit by lightning and burned badly. Our big project, while caring for our clients, is to navigate the world of insurance while trying to bring our building back to life.

Answers by: DeeDee Davis, Owner and Broker

OLLI+IZZIE STYLE HOUSE

1565 Nantahala Beach Road, @olliandizzie

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We are a small, close-knit salon that loves to perform top-tier hair care services with a laid-back boho charm.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Making someone feel beautiful is the best feeling in the world. Turning your clients to the mirror and seeing grins of elated joy is what makes our day. When they smile, I smile and when they cry, I cry. Literally. We are just trying to make more smiles.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Their trust in us. Our clients confide their hopes and goals for not only their hair, but also their lives. They allow us to be a part of what makes them feel beautiful every day. We have the best clientele a salon could ask for.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We are adding hand-tied extension services to our menu. We will continue to grow our business organically and are also dedicated to becoming more involved in our local community and giving back where we can.

Answers by: Shannon Pope, Salon Owner and Stylist

PACE AND SONS INSURANCE

3276 Fordham Parkway, facebook.com/joepaceinsuranceagency

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We provide our community the best possible insurance policies for their homes, cars and boats with local staff.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  First and foremost, my family. Getting to work with your brother and dad every day is such a privilege. Not taking that for granted inspires me to always do my best.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our clients have chosen our local office over much larger agencies to protect some of their most valuable assets with our guidance and that gives me a great sense of gratitude for every client.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We are trying to invent a time machine to go into the future and find out when our customers will have disasters and "Oh crap!" moments so we will only sell them policies they need. Turns out that business model wouldn't be very profitable, but man, wouldn't that be sweet.

Answers by: Joe Jr., Agent

PAINTED BOHEMIAN

5660 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. A4, @painted.bohemian

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? It's a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together. Painted Bohemian is a free-spirited hair salon where artistry meets individuality. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My biggest inspiration to be the best I can be is my daughter. I want to show her that she can achieve anything she wants in life. All she has to do is believe in the magic of her wildest dreams and chase them daily.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  I have the absolute best clients. The love, kindness and support for one another is beautiful. I wouldn't be where I am without them. Forever so thankful for their referrals.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  I am truly enjoying how much my little shop has grown in the last three years. Opening my first business 10 months after a pandemic while being a single mother was a big leap for me. My next goal would be to expand my current location.

Answers by: Taylor Longsworth, Owner RHELM

9601 University Parkway, rhelmlife.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be?

A fresh student housing community made to feel like a home away from home. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our residents inspire us to continue to

do our best so we can continue to serve them and make living at Rhelm an enjoyable experience. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Our residents entrust us to help make their college experience a better one and help them transition into a new phase of life as students away from home.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our goal is to always continue to serve Pensacola residents and college students alike looking for housing needs and to continue to help our residents.

Answers by: Tori Tucker, Area Manager

THE WATSON FIRM, PLLC

850 S. Palafox St., watsonfirm.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Transforming lives and uplifting our community. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The practice of law is highly competitive. Every day, we face adversaries and engage in constant competition. This relentless drive and hunger to win often bring out the best in us. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  I deeply appreciate the relationships we build with our clients and their trust in our firm. Over the past 15 years, I've handled some very significant injury cases and achieved excellent results. Their belief in our abilities from the beginning to the present is something I always value and respect. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are currently refining our internal processes to continue offering optimal customer service and an enhanced customer experience. We pride ourselves on our customer service, which we believe sets us apart

from larger firms. As we improve our blueprint, we aim to serve even more communities.

Answers by: Aaron Watson, Esq., President

Weddings ANYDAYDJ

anydaydj.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We handle the details so you can enjoy the moment.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We ensure that our clients have a seamless and stress-free interaction with their DJ. This is their special day, and we want them to worry only about how much dancing and singing they do with the people they care about the most, family and friends.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The trust they have in us. By the time they get to us, they've heard from all their vendors that we will take care of them and keep the dance floor packed. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Systems and scaling. Staying the best and always pushing ourselves to be better.

Answers by: Ramsey and Melissa Coates, Owners, Operators and DJ

BEACHES & BOUQUETS

beachesandbouquets.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Whether luxurious, intimate or somewhere in between, we have the perfect destination for you. Love made easy.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The belief that every day holds infinite possibilities to make a positive impact. We're all given an opportunity to make conscious choices to help one another navigate this human journey. Knowing that I'm in control of my destiny fuels my passion in everything I do.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their creativity and openness. Each one brings a unique perspective and enthusiasm that enriches every project and makes my work not just a job, but a passion.  What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  To enhance our eco-friendly wedding packages, ensuring that each celebration not only embodies elegance and romance but also respects and preserves the natural beauty of our stunning beach venues.

Answers by: Kelly St. Myer, Corporate Sales Executive and Destination Wedding Expert

CRASH MEDIA PRODUCTIONS crashmediaproductions.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Your romantic love story, our cinematic storytelling.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  My clients consistently inspire me to create my best work. I realize that the work I create is something to be cherished for years by others, so creating their living memento is what motivates me to make sure that I am always making my best work for every client. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  How much they truly trust

me. They trust my ability to capture the most intimate moments of their lives with a camera, and then trust me to edit everything together into their film. All of my clients have trusted me to use my creative vision while keeping my artistic integrity.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? I would love to expand Crash Media to start to film more documentary work and creative personal projects, all while continuing to also capture weddings. Answers by: Hayle Wilson, Owner

DJ PHATCHI & CO.

weddingwire.com/djphatchi

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A music service that is all about you. I always tell my clients, it's all about them on their special day.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Building personal connections with clients, creating memorable memories for the clients and their guests and knowing that I exceeded their expectations. It makes me happy to see people celebrating together with dancing and laughter.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their trust and confidence in me. Also, letting me be a part of their story and journey.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  To consistently provide exceptional services and ensure that the client's special day or event is truly unforgettable. Also, continuing to build relationships with other wedding vendors to create mutually beneficial partnerships.

Answers by: Theresa Chi Hoang, Owner and DJ

FLORALS BY MALLORI

@floralsbymallori

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? To honor and celebrate all couples' love through custom wedding floral design. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The wedding vendors and other local professionals I surround myself with. I am fortunate to have entered this industry during a time when community is so valued amongst designers and business owners. Above all else, I love people and feel excited to serve everyone well. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Each client's individuality and their willingness to bring me into their lives during such an important time. Wedding planning can be stressful, but I have been so fortunate to work with couples who are kind and graceful through everything.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My sister, Jodi, and I are currently working on plans to expand FBM in 2025. This could evolve into new opportunities for us both, as well as for our clients. We're excited about the possibilities. Answers by: Mallori Carmack, Founder and Floral Designer

HEMSTITCH RENTALS

hemstitchrentals.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? For events as memorable as you. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Individuality and creativity. We are always

looking for ways to set ourselves apart by offering styles that differ from trends and traditions. We believe that no two events should be the same, because no two clients are the same. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We appreciate our clients so much. More than anything, we value when our clients allow us to create custom designs, tailored to their unique styles and personalities. We also love when clients keep in touch with us after the event is over.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are working on launching customizable rental packages for every occasion. We want to simplify our booking process by taking the guesswork out of selecting individual pieces. We desire for every interaction that our clients have with us to be seamless and fun.

Answers by: Megan Kozell, Owner

KARLATINA B+F

karlatina.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? I do boho hair and natural makeup. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My beautiful brides. I'm one of the lucky people that gets to do what she loves every day. Every single bride I get to work with has chosen me, but more importantly, she has placed her trust in me to help her look and feel amazing on her special day. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  The faith, confidence and time my brides invest in me. I get to be a part of one of the most significant and memorable days of their lives and I am humbled and grateful for that opportunity.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? More brides, more weddings. As a full-time bridal stylist, this is what I want to do and where I want to be. Karlatina B+F will continue building lifelong relationships with brides, creating dream bridal looks and maybe even winning Best of the Coast.

Answers by: Karla Yepez, CEO and Artist

KENDRA K BEAUTY

kendrakbeauty.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be?

Bringing timeless beauty to your special day with award-winning bridal hair and makeup, tailored to make you feel stunning and confident. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our brides. Their joy and excitement motivate us to deliver our best work. We're driven by the desire to create unforgettable moments, ensuring every bride feels confident and beautiful on their special day. Receiving awards such as these fuel our passion.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our clients trusting us with the most special moments. Their unique visions and excitement make each experience special, allowing us to create personalized and memorable looks. Their heartfelt gratitude and forming connections with them inspires us to continually excel.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Enhancing our online presence with tutorials, beauty tips and behind-the-scenes content to connect with and inspire future brides.

Answers by: Kendra K, Owner

4847 W. Spencerfield Road, nixonsclothing.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We dress the best.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  We want everyone who enters our store to leave feeling confident and satisfied that they made a great decision choosing us for their formalwear needs.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Both loyalty and new customers. We love all our customers and appreciate seeing everyone walk through our doors. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Expand our business even broader than it is now and to even more clients.

Answers by: Brooke Jackson, Owner

THE ORCHARDS OF MOLINO

4365 Crabtree Church Road, theorchardseventvenue.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The Orchards is an exclusive wedding venue offering breathtaking views and luxurious interiors, providing a magical setting and endless photo opportunities for your special day. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We come from a business background and have brought that to The Orchards of Molino. We are driven to make every inch of this property picture-perfect so couples and their families will have the best day of their lives. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Our couples become like

extended members of our family. We cherish the time that we are able to spend and the bonds that we form with them in the months and years leading up to their wedding day. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To offer the most beautiful space for weddings and other events in Northwest Florida, ensuring a stunning and unforgettable experience for every occasion.

Answers by: Cynthia

Farrar,

Owner

PV COBIA PHOTOGRAPHY pvcobia.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Through the creative and artistic use of details, movement and human interaction, we capture timeless and authentic imagery and films. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Be: I believe that being the best is subjective. Do: I want to show my children anything is possible with hard work and determination. Make: our clients and fellow vendors. People put their utmost trust in us to create and produce artistic images and films that stand out. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Our clients' trust. We work hard to build loyalty with our couples before photographing their wedding day. It's a monumental moment in their lives and their willingness to share their vision empowers my team to create a personalized experience that reflects their true essence and love story. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We're excited to announce we've added filmmaking to our services. We can fully serve our clients through a

photo and video experience and it is a new challenge that continues to keep us inspired. Answers by: PV Cobia, Owner

RAE WEST PHOTOGRAPHY

raewestphotography.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Images that you can visually see, but feel with your heart. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My clients, my tribe and God. I want them to be proud of me and what I do. I want my clients to know that I got their back and will go above and beyond to ensure they feel supported and at ease throughout the entire process—no matter what. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  That my clients trust and invest in me with the most important day of their lives. Man, that's something I'll never take for granted. It pushes me to be my best so that I can give my best. Not only that, but the love they give back—it's so valued. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? To just keep doing what fuels me: capturing love. I'm going to continue putting my clients first, giving out quality work and staying humble and grateful for what I can do in this industry. There are so many talented individuals. I'm humbled to be a part of it.

Answers by: Rachel Westley, Owner

SAMI KAYE'S CAKERY samikcakery.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Every cake is a work of art. From elegant

wedding cakes to whimsical cupcake flower bouquets, each is unique and one-of-a-kind. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Being self-taught, the only person I want to get better than is the lady I was yesterday. Creating cakes and cupcakes is truly my passion and I couldn't imagine a better job for me as an artistic outlet.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The flexibility they allow for me to use my artistic designs, ideas and style. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? I would love to continue making bigger and better wedding cakes. Ten tiers would be so cool. My next goal is to create a frosting/buttercream that can withstand this Florida heat.

Answers by: Sami, Owner

SOUTHERN FRILLS WEDDINGS & EVENTS

1300 W. Garden St., southernfrillsevents.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? As wedding designers, we ignite our passion to create elaborate, unique events that unfold unforgettable experiences for our clients. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We plan weddings that become core memories for all guests, leaving no room for do-overs. Our dedication to perfection drives us to be our best.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their trust and value in our professional expertise, allowing us to create one of the best days of their lives.

LifeView Group team members have been serving our community since 1954. Thanks to our leaders for fostering an inspirational culture and furthering our mission of “helping people.”

Allison Hill President and CEO, LifeView Group

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Our next goal is to expand our services to include destination weddings, bringing our unique and elaborate event designs to beautiful locations around the world.

Answers by:

Kelly Rhodes, Owner and Wedding Designer

SUPPOSEY

101 S. F St., supposey.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Supposey is an event atmosphere atelier. All-inclusive luxury concierge offerings include wedding planning and an idyllic venue. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our clients and their unique personalities inspire elements that we incorporate into their event. The best kind of event is one that truly reflects the host's style.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their love story. We enjoy hearing about how our couples met and often form longtime friendships as we get to know them throughout planning.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Something big is coming—as always, we're excited to grow.

Answers by: Chloe Sexton, Founder and Wedding Planner

Retail

A CURIOUS WINE SHOP

1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 221, acuriouswineshop.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A tiny wine shop that specializes in wine education.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? My family and the winemaking families that we represent inspire me every day. I would love to build a business that could be passed down in the way that the historic wineries have been passed down for generations.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? I love our customers. We have the best customers. They are open-minded to trying new things, hungry for knowledge and full of adventure.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We are only six months old, so the current goal is to establish ourselves as a unique shopping experience within the Pensacola community.

Answers by: Hilary Towns, Wine Educator

BLUE HOUSE CURIO

bluehousecurio.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Blue House Curio captivates your curiosity by transforming preserved natural specimens into alluring jewelry, tantalizing trinkets and sentimental keepsakes.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Our clients inspire us to be our best. From beginning to end, each piece we create is made to ensure our clients feel seen, heard and represented. None more so than our Pride collections. They are our favorite pieces to make but we are biased.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We appreciate the authen-

ticity and originality of our clients the most. We pride ourselves on wanting to bring joy and a feeling of welcoming to everyone. Just like no two flowers are alike, no two clients are alike. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  The next project on the horizon for Blue House Curio would be watching our pressed flower commissions blossom. We recently opened up commissions for these projects and can't wait to collaborate with clients like brides and gift-givers. Answers by: Erin Clancy, Maker and Owner

JADE TREE SUCCULENTS

@jadetreesucculents

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Helping inspire people to decorate with plants. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  My customers, family and friends inspire me every day to create new fun pieces, and to do my best work. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The encouragement I receive from my customers when they visit my booth at Palafox Market. If I'm feeling down or I'm having imposter syndrome, there are usually several people that offer the most encouraging words and thank me for being out there. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My goal is to find an employee to help cover for me when I need to take off, and to help me grow my business.

Answers by: Catherine, Owner and CEO

PENSACOLA CANDLE CO.

pensacolacandleco.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Pensacola Candle Co. specializes in hand-poured luxury coconut soy candles with cotton wicks and custom, nontoxic fragrances, catering to brands and businesses with bespoke options. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Not working a traditional nine-to-five job. The fact that this is my full-time job now motivates me to be my best so that I can continue to do this full-time.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? I have the best customers. I appreciate when I receive new customers, but I am so thankful for my repeat customers that continue to support me and love the brand. It means so much.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Lots of projects are happening. We have a new monthly subscription box that launched on July 1 called the Candle Club. I am also working on converting my garage into my new candle studio. The business has grown so much and I am outgrowing my current workspace.

Answers by: Hannah Williams, Owner and Candlemaker

ROSIE'S ANTIQUE EMPORIUM

3929 W. Navy Blvd., @rosiesantiqueemporium

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Transforming dreams into reality with unique treasures that bring our clientele joy. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Seeing the joy and excitement on our customers' faces when they find that perfect item inspires us to seek out high quality treasures, offer

the best in customer service and ensure every visit is memorable.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Our customers' passion for unique finds and their trust in us to help them discover items that bring joy to their lives. Their enthusiasm, joy at finding unique pieces at great prices and smiling faces make every interaction special and rewarding.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  To offer DIY classes in the fall. We will be offering classes to instruct customers on how to revive furniture using chalk paint, create art using different mediums and more, all with instruction from knowledgeable members of our vintage community.

Answers by: Lydia Rose Travis, Owner

THE TECH HANDYMAN

6224 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. 6, techhandymanfl.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We offer the quickest and friendliest electronics repair on the Emerald Coast. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  We do it for our customers. To see someone come in having a bad day with a broken device and have them smiling from ear to ear an hour later really makes our day. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? How much they do our advertising for us. Many of our customers come in from all of the good things that are said about us. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We have

started a laser engraving project, specializing in tumblers. We hope to have it going by fall to keep us busy during slower times.

Answers by: Ryan Galvan, Owner

THORN + THISTLE CO.

thornandthistle.squarespace.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? At Thorn + Thistle Co., we create unique pieces inspired by nature to incite wonder and connection with the natural world through delicate details.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  I find creative inspiration and joy in the process of a seed blossoming into a work of art. Through my work, I aim to celebrate something that mirrors the individuality and beauty of nature's offerings, creating items that hold a story—a story woven with petals preserved in time.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  It warms our hearts to meet others who share our passion for the beauty and wonder found in the natural world. We are grateful for each customer who recognizes and celebrates our work's unique ode to nature.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  To expand our garden by building a greenhouse. In doing so, we hope to incorporate more flower species into our art and expand our knowledge of flowers. I look forward to working with florals that offer new colors, shapes and textures.

Answers by: Micaela Blackwell, Owner

Bars, Drinks & Nightlife

BADLANDS ROADSIDE BAR

23 S. Palafox St., nynbadlands.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The rock 'n sports bar on Palafox. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Consistency on the wide variety of sports shown.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The loyalty. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Continue serving the public, and try to win the lottery. Answers by: Nick Zangari, Owner

VINYL MUSIC HALL

2 S. Palafox St., vinylmusichall.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be?

The Gulf Coast's premier live music venue. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Vinyl Music Hall is inspired every day to bring the best/newest musical talent to Pensacola. We offer affordable live music and ensure it has a place in the community. Sharing the culture and scene of downtown Pensacola with national and international touring artists is something we pride ourselves on annually.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Their constant feedback on our shows/events. That relationship we have with locals who tell us what they need and want from their local live music venue. Their joy is our joy, and ultimately why our doors are open. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  The

next goal on the horizon for Vinyl Music Hall is to help aid in the fight against fake ticketing. Congress needs to hear independent venues' voices now and understand what is going on in our industry. The fight to protect the fans never stops. Visit fixthetix.org to learn more.

Answers by: Farren Darnell, Office Administrator

Restaurants & Food AUNT KATIE'S

3005 E. Cervantes St., auntkatiesbreakfastnlunch.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Welcome to breakfast.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our family, friends, team and guests. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Our customers genuinely care about our team and the restaurant. We appreciate their honest feedback and take every word they say to heart. We are so grateful and work hard to earn their continued support. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  Our next goal is the same as our last goal. To continue coming up with new, fun, delicious dishes and continue to provide exceptional customer service.

Answers by: Aunt Katie and Mr. Aunt Katie, Owners

BROWN BAGGER

2435 N. 12th Ave. and 6820 Caroline St., brownbaggerfoodtruck.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We like to smash burgers and have a good time while doing it.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? We look to our teammates to hold us accountable and help make us the best we can be, on and off the truck.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Our customers choosing to spend their hard-earned money with us. Without them, we don't exist.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Crestview?

Answers by: Tim Thompson, Co-Owner and Operator

END OF THE LINE CAFE

610 E. Wright St., eotlcafe.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Creative vegan cuisine.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  So inspired by talks with guests surprised that house-made vegan cuisine isn't limited to salads to be healthy, and deep fried to taste good. Everything inspires me to do my best. I hope to grow and learn and get better in life every day, with my kid by my side.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  It's well known that we have the sweetest guests. I'm so very grateful for our guests allowing us to grow organically over the years and the patience through its many transitions. The support and love received is unbelievable.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? There's so much more in the works right now. Cocktails, new menu items, more new events.

Answers by:

Jen Knight, Owner

GREAT SOUTHERN RESTAURANTS:

The Fish House, Atlas Oyster House, Jackson's Steakhouse, Five Sisters Blues Café and Angelena's Ristorante Italiano greatsouthernrestaurants.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Great food, great service, great times—it's the Great Southern way.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? Our community and our customers inspire us each and every day to be the best. We are proud to call Pensacola home and to serve our guests, offering the best we have. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Loyalty. Our customers have supported us through so many incredible events: oil spill, hurricanes, Covid—we wouldn't be here if it were not for their enduring support and loyalty.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We were thrilled to get Atlas Oyster House back open for business this year; it has truly been amazing to see the outpouring of support for this local favorite. We have an awesome project underway this year for Five Sisters. Stay tuned for the big announcement.

Answers by: Maria V. Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events

HOT SPOT BARBECUE

901 E. La Rua St. and 2541 Gulf Breeze Parkway, hotspotbarbecue.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? The hot spot for authentic Southern barbecue and hospitality.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? When God created the world, it was perfect. We strive to honor him with our best efforts daily. Thank you.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  Just being able to share a moment with each other in our busy life. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  We are putting the finishing touches on a new entrance and takeout area at our restaurant. We also have a trailer at the Truxtop Food Court in Gulf Breeze. Next we would like to establish a food truck location north of I-10.

Answers by: James Hlubek, General Manager

ITSA COOKIE

itsacookiebakery.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Cookies with delightfully unexpected flavors. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"? The vibrant local music community and the joy of crafting unique cookies that evoke the playful flavors of childhood. The enthusiasm and support of our customers drives us to innovate and strive for excellence.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? We love the support and sense of community from our local customers. From the people that visit us at Palafox Market every Saturday to the Pensacola music scene that hypes up our band-inspired cookies, we appreciate each and every one of y'all. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? In October, we'll be bringing our cookies up to Birmingham for Furnace Fest. We're excited to share our cookies with festival-goers and showcase our unique flavors to an even broader audience.

Answers by: Katie Kralick, Owner

MÁS QUE DULCES

facebook.com/masquedulces.py

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? Más Que Dulces is an award-winning pop-up bakery that specializes in freshly baked gourmet sweets including some vegan, gluten free and keto options.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  I have been immensely blessed in my life and I'm thankful for the joy that fills my heart. I always strive to share my joy and instill it in others through the things I say, the things I do and the things I make.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The encouragement and support they give me, and the value they place on supporting local businesses. Helping our friends and neighbors in this way is what helps make a united community.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business?  I want to continue creating new recipes and expanding the options on my seasonal and specialty menus. I would also love the opportunity to participate in another local bake-off.

Answers by: Andrea Spradlin, Owner and Baker

MOONBEAM BAKERY

moonbeambakes.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A from-scratch cottage bakery specializing

in whimsical and creative Italian meringue buttercream cakes and French macarons. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  I want each cake or dessert I make to look like a piece of art and have depth of flavor. I dedicate a lot of time and energy into everything I make so that I am proud of the finished product and my customer is excited to enjoy it. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their support and creativity. I am so appreciative of everyone who has supported me over the past few years of my baking. I love my customers' creativity in their requests; sometimes it pushes me out of a comfort zone but I always learn something new. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? My next goal is to take my cottage bakery to a full-time retail spot. I want to expand my menu to include more sweets and pastries. I am working hard to achieve this goal and hope to see it come to fruition very soon.

Answers by: Jayme Arnold, Owner and Baker

RESTAURANT IRON

22 N. Palafox St., restaurantiron.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A refined Southern kitchen where the entire staff is constantly striving to exceed expectations of a casual dining experience. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  The feeling when a first-time guest discovers a newfound sense of enjoyment from our dining experience.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? Their enthusiasm. Guests are always willing to offer the kindest of sentiments after they have experienced our refined Southern cuisine.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We would like to offer multi-course meals and elevated experiences for diners to enjoy excellent cuisine worthy of a special journey.

Answers by: Danielle Blanchard, Content Creator

THE SEALEY SAUCE COMPANY

@sealeysauceco

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? High quality, small-batch, craft hot sauces focused on flavor first, then heat. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Definitely our family and friends that have encouraged and pushed us since the beginning. The camaraderie and encouragement between Pensacola food producers, chefs and business owners. The look on someone's face when they try our hot sauce for the first time. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients? The Pensacola area is second to none in supporting local. The restaurants and chefs that have chosen to put our sauces out on their tables. The retail locations that brought us in without a second thought. Hearing stories

and getting pictures from customers and seeing them when we do markets.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We have a couple new products that we hope to launch at Pensacola Seafood Fest. One is a Carolina Reaper sauce for those who like extreme heat, the other being a line of "dust" and seasonings derived from our sauce flavors.

Answers by: Eric Sealey, President and Co-Owner

TAP THE COAST

tapthecoast.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? We provide award-winning, upscale bar and beverage services for private events throughout the Gulf Coast, offer unique mobile bar rentals and host cocktail-making classes. What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Whether we're serving at a wedding, corporate event, fundraiser or mixing cocktails at a class, we're inspired by the honor of being part of your special moments. Seeing people come together drives us to deliver top-notch service, creative drinks and unique mobile bar setups, ensuring every event is unforgettable. What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  When clients choose us to bring their dreams and vision to life, it's humbling. Their confidence in our ability to deliver an exceptional experience and seeing the joy on their faces inspires and drives us every day. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? Our goals for 2024 and 2025 are to continue growing our presence across the Gulf Coast, expanding our fleet and the services we offer and to welcome new Tap Team members. We plan to continue learning and leading in our industry and community as well. Cheers to the future.

Answers by: Dannon Byrd, Owner

UNION PUBLIC HOUSE

36 E. Garden St., unionpensacola.com

If you had to define your business with just a tagline, sentence or phrase, what would it be? A crafty Southern pub where the community comes together.

What inspires you to be, do and make your "best"?  Our team at UPH loves what they do and is always looking to push the envelope of deliciousness.

What do you appreciate most about your customers/clients?  The look of enjoyment on their faces when they take a sip of a new cocktail or bite of a new dish. Also, the satisfaction of our staff when they see their creations making people smile.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you and your business? We will be reopening our old location as a "high-end dive bar." Awesome snacks, sandwiches and sweets with craft cocktails. Look for Baby's Beefs Lounge and Meat in late August.

Answers by: Blake Rushing, Chef and Owner

free will astrology

WEEK OF AUGUST 29

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Although there are over 7,000 varieties of apples, your grocery store probably offers no more than 15. But you shouldn't feel deprived. Having 15 alternatives is magnificent. In fact, most of us do better in dealing with a modicum of choices rather than an extravagant abundance. This is true not just about apples but also about most things. I mention this, Aries, because now is an excellent time to pare down your options in regard to all your resources and influences. You will function best if you're not overwhelmed with possibilities. You will thrive as you experiment with the principle less is more.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Taurus comedian Jerry Seinfeld, now 70, has testified, "As a child, the only clear thought I had was 'get candy.'" I encourage you to be equally single-minded in the near future, Taurus—not necessarily about candy, but about goodies that appeal to your inner child as well as your inner teenager and inner adult. You are authorized by cosmic forces to go in quest of experiences that tickle your bliss.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): I'm not saying I would refuse to hire a Gemini person to house-sit while I'm on vacation. You folks probably wouldn't let my houseplants die, allow raccoons to sneak in and steal food or leave piles of unwashed dishes in the sink. On the other hand, I'm not entirely confident you would take impeccable care of my home in every little way. But wait! Everything I just said does not apply to you now. My analysis of the omens suggests you will have a high aptitude for the domestic arts in the coming weeks. You will be more likely than usual to take good care of my home—and your own home, too. It's a good time to redecorate and freshen up the vibe.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): These days, you are even smarter and more perceptive than usual. The deep intelligence of your higher self is pouring into your conscious awareness with extra intensity. That's a good thing, right? Yes, mostly. But there may be a downside: You could be hyperaware of people whose thinking is mediocre and discernment is substandard. That could be frus-

By Rob Brezsny

trating, though it also puts you in a good position to correct mistakes those people make. As you wield the healing power of your wisdom, heed these words from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: "Misunderstandings and lethargy produce more wrong in the world than deceit and malice do."

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart had an older sister born under the sign of Leo. Her nickname was Nannerl. During their childhoods, she was as much a musical prodigy as he. Supervised by their father, they toured Europe performing together, playing harpsichord and piano. Nannerl periodically got top billing, and some critics regarded her as the superior talent. But misfortune struck when her parents decided it was unseemly for her, as a woman, to continue her development as a genius. She was forcibly retired so she could learn the arts of housekeeping and prepare for marriage and children. Your assignment in the coming months, Leo, is to rebel against any influence that tempts you to tamp down your gifts and specialties. Assert your sovereignty. Identify what you do best, and do it more and better than you ever have before.

You are authorized by cosmic forces to go in quest of experiences that tickle your bliss.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): When an infant giraffe leaves its mother's womb, it falls six feet to the ground. I suspect when you're reborn sometime soon, Virgo, a milder and more genial jolt will occur. It may even be quite rousing and inspirational—not rudely bumpy at all. By the way, the plunge of the baby giraffe snaps its umbilical cord and stimulates the creature to take its initial breaths—getting it ready to begin its life journey. I suspect your genial jolt will bring comparable benefits.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): Many people living in the Napo province of Ecuador enjoy eating a dish called ukuy, which is a Kichwa word for large ants. This is not an exotic meal for them. They may cook the ukuy or simply eat the creatures alive. If you travel to Napo any -

time soon, Libra, I urge you to sample the ukuy. According to my reading of the astrological omens, such an experiment is in alignment with the kinds of experiences you Libras should be seeking: outside your usual habits, beyond your typical expectations and in amused rebellion against your customary way of doing things.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): The theory of karma suggests all our actions, good and bad and in-between, send ripples out into the world. These ripples eventually circle back to us, ensuring we experience events that mirror our original actions. If we lie and cheat, we will be lied to and cheated on. If we give generously and speak kindly about other people, we will be the recipient of generosity and kind words. I bring this up, Scorpio, because I believe you will soon harvest a slew of good karma you've set in motion through your generosity and kindness. It may sometimes seem as if you're getting more benevolence than you deserve, but in my estimation, it's all well-earned.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): I encourage you to buy yourself fun presents that give you a feisty boost. Why? Because I want you to bring an innovative, starting-fresh spirit into the ripening projects you're working on. Your attitude and approach could become too serious unless you infuse them with the spunky energy of an excitable kid. Gift suggestions: new music that makes you feel wild; new jewelry or clothes that make you feel daring; new tools that raise your confidence; and new information that stirs your creativity.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): On a Tuesday in August in 2012—one full Jupiter cycle ago—a Capricorn friend of mine called in sick to his job as a marketing specialist. He never returned. Instead, after enjoying a week off to relax, he began working to become a dance instructor. After six months, he was teaching novice students. Three years later, he was proficient enough to teach advanced students, and five years later, he was an expert. I'm not advising you, Capricorn, to quit your job and launch your own quixotic quest for supremely gratifying work. But if you were ever going to start taking small steps toward that goal, now would be a good time. It's also a favorable phase to improve the way your current job works for you.

AQUARIUS

(JAN. 20-FEB. 18): Three years ago, an Indonesian man celebrated his marriage to a rice cooker, which is a kitchen accessory. Khoirul Anam wore his finest clothes while his new spouse donned a white veil. In photos posted on social media, the happy couple are shown hugging and kissing. Now might also be a favorable time for you to wed your fortunes more closely with a valuable resource—though there's no need to perform literal nuptials. What material thing helps bring out the best in you? If there's no such thing, now would be a good time to get it.

Take steps to ensure that your generosity is going where it's most needed and appreciated.

PISCES

(FEB. 19-MARCH 20): For many years, I didn't earn enough money to pay taxes. I was indigent. Fortunately, social programs provided me with food and some medical care. In recent years, though, I have had a better cash flow. I regularly send the US government a share of my income. I wish they would spend all my tax contributions to help people in need. Alas, just 42% of my taxes pay for acts of kindness to my fellow humans, while 24% goes to funding the biggest military machine on earth. Maybe someday, there will be an option to allocate my tax donations exactly as I want. In this spirit, Pisces, I invite you to take inventory of the gifts and blessings you dole out. Now is a good time to correct any dubious priorities. Take steps to ensure that your generosity is going where it's most needed and appreciated. What kind of giving makes you feel best?

HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: What supposedly forbidden thing do you want that maybe isn't so forbidden? {in}

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news of the weird

THE GOLDEN AGE OF AIR TRAVEL At the busy New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido, Japan, everything came to a screeching halt on Aug. 17 after a pair of scissors went missing from a store near the boarding gates, the BBC reported. The airport canceled 36 flights and delayed more than 200 others, leaving hundreds of travelers doing repeat security checks. Flights eventually resumed, but the scissors weren't found until the next day—at the store where they went missing. Social media users were strikingly complimentary and upbeat about the delays, though: "This incident showcased the safety of Japanese aviation," one posted.

UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT An Applebee's restaurant in Portage, Indiana, became the site of a scuffle on Aug. 2, USA Today reported. According to the Portage Police Department, officers arrived in response to a report of a verbal disturbance. There they found Shawneesha Cobbs, 28, who had been loudly arguing with the store manager. Cobbs' companions were under the impression that the restaurant's $15.99 all-you-can-eat deal applied to the whole group, and when the manager explained that the deal was per person, Cobbs said the menu didn't specify that. (It did.) The rabblerouser then verbally assaulted another couple leaving the restaurant; that's when she was placed under arrest and charged with disorderly conduct.

•Jeff Daniels lookalike Mayor Benji Cranford of Thomson, Georgia, was arrested on Aug. 14 after a grand jury indicted him for allegedly supplying a 750 ml bottle of Seagram's Extra Dry Gin to prisoners on a roadside work crew, WRDW-TV reported. The indictment said Cranford bought the bottle on June 4 and left it in a ditch along the path of the work crew from the Jefferson County Correctional Institution. Cranford was charged with furnishing prohibited items to inmates and criminal attempt to commit a felony. He bonded out three hours later.

IT'S COME TO THIS Students are headed back to school at H.E. Charles Middle School in El Paso, Texas, with a fresh restriction on the clothes they can wear, KVIA-TV reported on Aug. 2. Principal Nick DeSantis sent a letter to families stating that students would no longer be able to wear "black tops with black bottoms," saying the look can be "associated with depression and mental health issues and/or criminality." Sarah Venegas, executive principal for the district, backed DeSantis up: Students will be allowed to wear only blue jeans or khaki pants. Some parents don't agree: "I don't think we should be grouping, and red-flagging kids that just like to wear black," said Stephanie Rascon. Mental health expert Krista Wingate suggested that educators might instead "be looking out for different signs of stress or ... anxiety."

THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT Jose MartiAlvarez of Miami Gardens, Florida, came up with a shady plan to make some dough, Local10-TV reported. Marti-Alvarez, 55, was in court on Aug. 19 facing felony charges of running "an elaborate scheme to defraud tourists staying in the hotels of Miami Springs," police said. He had distributed flyers to hotels near Miami International Airport,

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

advertising "Roman Pizzeria"—a name dangerously close to Roman's Pizzeria, which has had a loyal following in the area for four decades. MartiAlvarez's pizzas were delivered "bad, uncooked, sometimes in a box with a piece of raw dough," said Jesus Roman, the real pizza man. MartiAlvarez had been duping folks for several years, garnering bad reviews and customer complaints for the real Roman's. Finally Roman went to the police. Marti-Alvarez was held on fraud charges, along with aggravated battery after he hit a hotel worker with his car while trying to flee.

DASTARDLY Russian chess player Amina Abakarova, 40, of Dagestan could be banned from competition for life after she was accused of poisoning another player at the Dagestan Classical Chess Championship on Aug. 2, Oddity Central reported. Surveillance video captured Abakarova stopping at a table and spreading a substance on the board and pieces where her competitor, Umayganat Osmanova, 30, soon would be playing. Her behavior could have been innocent, but about 30 minutes later, Osmanova started experiencing nausea and dizziness. Doctors confirmed she had been poisoned with mercury; Osmanova ended up in the hospital. "I felt a lack of air and a taste of iron in my mouth," she said. Abakarova confessed to using mercury from an old thermometer to soil the board, hoping to "knock her (opponent) out of the tournament." She will likely also lose her job and may face criminal prosecution.

NEWS YOU CAN USE Homeowners who don't want to advertise the details of their property can blur their homes on Google Street View, MSN reported on Aug. 22. "Would-be thieves certainly want to scout their locations before they hit them," said Christopher Herrmann, a professor of law and police science at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York. Criminals might look for security barriers, front-door cameras or exterior surveillance systems. But, he warned, "It may be more of a red flag," alerting thieves that there is something worth stealing. "We make it easy for anyone to blur their home if they prefer," said a Google spokesperson. "Just click on the 'Report a Problem' button and submit a request."

ANIMAL ANTICS Taboo, a black-and-white 12-year-old cat from West Yorkshire, England, has made a name for herself in the neighborhood, People reported. She's a cat burglar. Taboo's owner, Sandra Danskin, said she steals clothing and gardening equipment from nearby households, forcing Danskin to post them on social media to reunite them with their owners. "This morning, I had four pairs of socks and a pair of underpants," Danskin said. "Also, we've had mopheads and kitchen rolls." She suspects the kitty grabs items off laundry lines or sneaks into homes where the door is left open. Helpfully, she always brings both socks of a pair, carrying one at a time. {in}

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