Inweekly June 2 2022 Issue

Independent News | June 2, 2022 | Volume 23 | Number 22

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winners & losers

outtakes

4

news

5

6, 8

That did not have to happen.

calendar

buzz 10

publisher Rick Outzen editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Gina Castro, Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Jeremy Morrison, Sydney Robinson, C.S. Satterwhite, Tom St. Myer

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contact us info@inweekly.net

Independent News is published by Inweekly Media, Inc., P.O. Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591. (850)438-8115. All materials published in Independent News are copyrighted. © 2022 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Dear Readers, If you saw our cover this week and thought to yourself, "Did something go wrong?" you are absolutely correct.

Black lives matter.

Something is terribly and undeniably wrong in our country, and like many of you, we've found it hard to think about anything else recently but the uniquely American epidemic that is gun violence.

So that’s why our cover looks like it does. We hope it serves as a visual moment of silence and our way of acknowledging that publishing this issue without mentioning the horrific shootings that took place over the last two weeks just wouldn't be right.

Sadly, an elementary school in Texas and a grocery store in New York aren't the only recent instances of gun violence we're thinking about. Locally, right here in Pensacola, we also lost an educator named Carla Williams and an activist named Durrell Palmer last week. While the circumstances and motives for all of these murders were different, they have one thing in common—guns were used to end lives.

If you're feeling overwhelmed and like you've yet to even fully process what happened in Uvalde and Buffalo, we're right there with you.

In an effort to help ourselves, and hopefully some of you, turn our feelings into action, we put together a resource page on our website—inweekly.net. It includes ways to support and donate to Everytown for Gun Safety and verified fundraisers on GoFundMe, plus a guide on how to call Senators Rubio and Scott and ask them to pass HR 8 (which is a bill that establishes new background check requirements for all firearm purchases and transfers). March for Our Lives is also planning country-wide marches next Saturday, June 11, and we included information about the local event. We know it's not much, and it won't magically "fix" or "end" gun violence, but it's a place to start at least.

At times like these, when things feel hopeless, we find comfort in taking action, no matter how small, and in engaging with our community. Here at Inweekly, we are committed to using this newspaper to facilitate change whenever and wherever we can. We know with this topic in particular, that isn't going to happen overnight, but we’re still committed to try. And we hope you are, too, because the alternative of doing nothing is just damn tragic.

June 2, 2022

3

Stock Market Losses?

winners & losers

Hire a lawyer who is a former Merril Lynch stock broker.

11 East Romana Street | Pensacola, Fl 32502

genemitchell.org Grover Robinson / Photo Courtesy of City of Pensacola

Ashley Moody / Photo Courtesy of myfloridalegal.com

winners

losers

GROVER ROBINSON For the second consecu-

ASHLEY MOODY Florida's Attorney General

tive year, the Florida League of Cities has recognized Pensacola's mayor with its 2022 Home Rule Hero Award for his hard work and advocacy efforts during the 2022 Legislative Session. Home Rule is the ability of a city to address local problems with local solutions with minimal state interference.

Home Rule Hero Award recipients are local government officials, both elected and nonelected, who consistently responded to the league's request to reach out to members of the legislature and help give a local perspective on an issue.

GORDON SPRAGUE UWF President Martha

Saunders inducted the university's newest Foundation Fellow, Mr. Gordon "Flash" Sprague, on May 20. UWF Foundation Fellows are individuals nominated by the Board of Directors of the Foundation and confirmed by the president. The honor is extended to persons of merit and distinction based on both service and support of the Foundation Board and University. "Flash" served on the Foundation Board from July 2010-June 2020.

LENNY AND GLORIA COLLINS During the Marine Corps League's Heroes Among Us speaker series event on Thursday, May 26, Pensacola City Neighborhoods Administrator Lawrence Powell awarded Key to the City to Wall South founders Lenny and Gloria Collins. In December 1987, the "Moving Wall" came to Pensacola. The Collins worked with local Vietnam veterans, active-duty military and community leaders to create a permanent monument honoring the men and women that served and died in Vietnam. The Wall South monument grew to become the Veterans Memorial Park on Bayfront Parkway.

JOE GILCHRIST Pensacola lost one of its most unique characters with the passing of this former teacher who bought a tiny bar and package store on the Florida-Alabama line in Perdido Key and turned it into the best dive in America—the FloraBama Lounge. Gilchrist created the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival that, brought together songwriters and musicians to celebrate their music and raise funds for musical programs for local youth.

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is being mocked for repositioning a significant legal loss into a victory. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed unanimously a lower court decision that ruled key provisions in state law to crack down on social media "censorship" are unconstitutional. The law was one of Gov. Ron DeSantis' priorities in the 2021 Legislative Session after social media companies banned Trump and others from their platforms. In true William Barr fashion, Attorney General Moody painted the decision in a positive light because the federal panel found five of the bill's 12 provisions to likely be constitutional. She vowed to continue fighting for the bill.

ABBOTT NUTRITION Many considered the shutdown of the Abbott Nutrition plant in Michigan in February the spark that led to the current widespread baby formula shortage. Dr. Robert Califf, the head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), told a House panel last week that FDA inspectors found at the plant a leaking roof, water pooled on the floor and cracks in key production equipment that allowed bacteria to contaminate the baby formula. The Michigan plant produced a quarter of the nation's infant formula, including products for people with specialized nutritional needs. The facility is expected to reopen soon.

REBEKAH JONES The Florida Department of Health's Inspector General's investigation into the four complaints made by the former agency data manager to either be "unsubstantiated" or "unfounded." Jones had been given whistleblower status after she alleged that her superiors fired her for refusing to manipulate COVID-19 data. Jones claimed she had been directed to falsify positivity rates. She also alleged DOH officials directed her to restrict access to underlying data that supported what appeared on the COV-ID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard. The Inspector General did find the alleged conduct, as Jones described, occurred—giving Jones some measure of a victory. Still, he exonerated the officials because it was not found to be a violation of any governing directive. inweekly.net

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

Practicing Since 1974 INJURED? (ALL TYPES OF ACCIDENTS)

ARRESTED? (ALL FEDERAL & STATE COURTS)

NO MORE, PLEASE Last week, we lost Carla Williams when her ex-boyfriend walked into a gym on North Ninth Avenue while she was on the leg press machine and shot her multiple times. Coming on the heels of activist Durrell Palmer's murder, her death hit our community hard.

Whether it's a mass shooting, like those that happened in Uvalde and Buffalo, or the murder of one individual, each gun death has a backstory. I've learned Ms. Williams' story over the past few days.

Carla was an honor student who led Graceville High School to a basketball state championship in 1992. She played for two years at Pensacola State College, earning selection to the All-Conference and All-Region teams. She went on to play for the Florida State University Lady Seminoles. After graduation, Carla returned to PSC as an assistant women's basketball coach.

For the next 24 years, she also worked at the college in the Collegiate High and Mathematics and Computer Science departments as a math professor.

In a message to PSC faculty, staff, student and alumni, President Ed Meadows also about Carla's positive impact on the "lives of many PSC students and employees." He added, "The College offers our deepest condolences to Carla's family, friends and loved ones. She will be greatly missed."

A math whiz, Carla tutored several college and high school students, including the kids in the Southern Youth Sports Association (SYSA). A written statement released by her family pointed to her devotion to students: "She loved working with her students and athletes. She was dedicated to going the extra mile for her students and those she loved.

Carla was a friend to those who were friendless.

She was family to those without a family. She worked hard to achieve her goals and accomplish all that she did. Carla pushed others to achieve their goals. Carla loved God, and she showed it through her actions."

Commissioner Lumon May, the co-founder of SYSA, called Carla an "unsung hero," "sweet, humble soul that cared for this community" who wanted to "make a difference with young ladies in particular, but she helped young men as well."

"Carla Williams was beloved by so many young people," said May. "She volunteered at SYSA with our girls' basketball program, with Michelle Inere and Raymond Palmer. Not only was she a coach, but Carla also was a mathematics genius and tutored our children for the SAT, ACT and their high school courses."

He continued, "She was the type of person you could call on a Sunday afternoon when you couldn't figure out the equation, and she would stop what she was doing and come meet you. She would help them with one problem, or she'd help them with a hundred problems."

The commissioner credited Carla for his sports program's success in getting its students into college. May said, "She was just not a coach, mentor or a professor, but Carla was a friend to children; she was a loving and caring person. I can tell you she rarely raised her voice."

He added, "Her impact will last a lifetime, but her death will certainly cause pain, and she will be greatly missed by all of us over at the Southern Youth Sports Association, and I know as well as Pensacola State."

The suspected killer has been caught and awaits trial. Carla had a restraining order against him, which didn't stop him. The laws in place didn't stop the shootings at the school in Texas or the grocery store in New York, either.

Our gun laws have to change. We need reasonable gun reform. The one before the U.S. Senate, HB 8, is a small step. It calls for new background check requirements for firearm transfers.

We can debate other reforms later, but HB 8 is one that can be passed now. Please contact our senators, Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, and ask them to support HB 8.

Doing nothing is no longer an option. {in} rick@inweekly.net

She was the type of person you could call on a Sunday afternoon when you couldn't figure out the equation, and she would stop what she was doing and come meet you.

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REIMAGINE SAFETY

By Tom St. Myer Renderings of historic West Jackson Street beautified with sidewalks, bike paths, crosswalks and roundabouts generated oohs and aahs. Still, community members prioritized safety over aesthetics when voicing their opinions during a Reimagine Jackson Street public workshop on Tuesday, May 24, hosted virtually and in person at Brownsville Community Center.

Mondi Hudson, former owner of the bakery Henny Penny on Jackson Street, encouraged the designers to install bike paths. She pointed out that many residents rely on bicycles as their primary form of transportation.

"I had a gentleman that lived in the community, and he would ride his bike," said Hudson, who attended both workshops. "Mr. James got hit by a motorist on his bike the first time and went to the hospital, and I was concerned about it. Then Mr. James got hit about six months later and died because of a lack of bike trails and because he didn't have sidewalks. That did not have to happen. Before it gets all glammed and pretty, we have to address the safety portion."

The roughly 5.5-mile corridor traverses a diverse and predominantly residential community between A Street and Fairfield Drive, connecting downtown Pensacola and the western portion of Escambia County. A lack of sidewalks, safe crossings and dedicated bike facilities make traveling the corridor challenging for pedestrians and cyclists.

The Reimagine Jackson Street project is a planning effort among Escambia County and the City of Pensacola, along with their community redevelopment agencies. Project objectives include street improvements that increase stormwater quality, create a buffer between vehicles and pedestrians, provide shade to pedestrians and protect habitat for native plants and trees.

Project organizers traveled throughout the neighborhoods with pop-up banners that provided details, held an initial workshop in March to seek input from the community and then revealed renderings at the second workshop based on feedback. About 330 residents filled out the

survey, and 53% of survey respondents live on or near Jackson Street.

WSP USA, a multinational engineering and design firm, is overseeing the project. The firm presented options for renovations to F, Grandview and 61st streets, along with major and minor intersection treatment options for community members to rate as "Love it!" "Neutral" or "Dislike." WSP USA Senior Project Manager Catherine Prince said the firm will factor those ratings in as it now enters the implementation plan, conceptual design and cost estimate phase.

Prince specifically mentioned the west side of the street from Pace Boulevard to Fairfield Drive as a section ripe for improvement.

"There are parts where sidewalks are missing," she said. "There are no sidewalks, and these are big improvements we've been looking into.

Also, access to schools and playgrounds, there are a number of elementary schools and middle schools out to the west, and missing sidewalks is a big concern there."

Jay Aber, a WSP senior transportation engineer and planner, said one-third of accidents along West Jackson Street involved pedestrians and cyclists. Dangerous intersections include A Street, Fairfield Drive, New Warrington Road, Old Corry Field Road, Pace Boulevard, 57th and 65th.

"If you think about it, there are a lot of people walking and biking out there, but it's not a third of the traffic volume," Aber said. "That's still a lot of people driving, so those people walking and biking are really overly represented in terms of the risk they share on the corridor of being hit and injured or killed."

WSP studies found that drivers average traveling 10-20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. One recommendation is to reduce the posted speed limit throughout the corridor.

Another possible remedy to reduce risk is to install roundabouts. WSP reports that roundabouts offer the best options for improving safety and traffic operations, but the cost is higher than those for signal and geometric improvements, crosswalk enhancements or fourway stops.

"They reduce all crashes, but they have a re-

ally big reduction in fatal and serious crashes," Aber said. "You think about going to a signal, especially if it's not in the middle of rush hour, it's in the middle of the day or middle of the night, and you have to stop. You don't have to stop at a roundabout; you don't have to wait. They typically improve traffic flow at all times of the day."

"That's still a lot of people driving, so those people walking and biking are really overly represented in terms of the risk they share on the corridor of being hit and injured or killed." Jay Aber A significant number of residents who attended the workshops voiced concerns about stormwater. Standing water that detours drivers is a common occurrence along West Jackson.

"Cars are stalling out," Hudson said. "I'm up in an SUV, and I sail across that water like nothing, like butter, but that's not everybody else; that's not my community."

He continued, "I'm not 100% voicing for myself but for those who are underrepresented that don't have access and can't come to these meetings and need to be able to say, ‘Hey, my child is walking home from a job at night down Jackson, and there are no lights, and there's standing water because it's raining and it's not safe.'"

How much money agencies invest in the project will ultimately determine the improvements made to Jackson Street. The second phase of the project includes covers the funding component and is scheduled to occur next year. Prince estimated major renovations would occur in twothree years.

"We're looking at grants—federal grants, state grants—and there are many we can apply for," Prince said. "We're also looking at potential partnerships with philanthropic organizations, not-for-profits, so we're looking at comprehensive private money, as well as public monies. How

can we leverage the funds to come up with a financial plan?"

County Commissioner Doug Underhill sponsored the project for the county and has committed $700,000 in discretionary funds to move forward with the construction of southside sidewalks between Fairfield Drive and 65th Street, plus safety upgrades that include push pedestrian signals and crosswalks to the existing traffic signals at the 57th and 65th intersections. County staff chose that specific location due to rightof-way issues and a future drainage construction project that precluded sidewalks from being constructed elsewhere.

Underhill said the neighborhoods deserve complete streets with sidewalks. He has partnered with fellow County Commissioner Lumon May and Pensacola City Councilman Delarian Wiggins, whose district encompasses the West Jackson Street area, to move the project forward.

Drainage construction and roundabouts are exceptions, but Aber said a significant number of recommendations from survey responders could be implemented quickly at a relatively low cost.

Determining short-, medium- and long-term renovations will be part of the implementation plan that lasts through October.

Jenny Brown moved into her house on West Jackson Street four years ago. She questioned whether she would lose some of her property if sidewalks and bike paths are installed, but she said she still favors the proposed renovations.

"It looks beautiful," Brown said of the renderings. "Property value will go up, which is another thing that helps."

Some residents questioned whether renovations would raise their property values to the point they can no longer afford to pay property taxes. Prince said any recommendations will include sensitivity analysis for potential gentrification vulnerability. Project plans for mitigating displacement include building and preserving affordable housing, community land trusts, homeownership programs, property tax relief and rent subsidies. {in} To learn more, visit reimaginejacksonstreet.com.

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7

WHAT'S NEW AT THE POLLS

By Grayson Keglovic Since the 2020 presidential election, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has prioritized election security despite praising how well his state handled the voting process, sparking controversy and at least one court case.

"Twenty years ago, nobody thought Florida was a prime example of how to conduct elections, but we have become a national leader by running the most secure elections in the country," DeSantis said in an April news release. "We need to do more to ensure our elections remain secure."

Last year, DeSantis signed SB 90, a bill that tightened Florida's laws around voter registration and the voting process. Those wishing to request a vote-by-mail ballot, both in-person and online, will have to provide more identification. The bill banned ballot harvesting and restricted drop boxes—two voting techniques used to help people cast their votes.

The use of no-solicitation zones was reiterated in the new law, banning campaigning and political activities during the duration of an election within 150 feet of early voting sites, election supervisor offices, and polling places. Under SB 90, "Line warming" has been prohibited in these areas as well, meaning that outside groups cannot provide food or water to those who wait in line to cast their ballot.

The law drew the attention of several voter and civil rights organizations, including the Florida NAACP, Disability Rights Florida, Common Cause and the League of Women Voters of Florida, that filed lawsuits, arguing that the law was unconstitutional. Patricia Brigham, thenpresident of the League of Woman Voters of Florida, called the legislation "a deliberate and disproportionate impact on elderly voters, voters with disabilities, students and communities of color."

She added, "It's undemocratic, unconstitutional, and un-American."

A federal judge agreed with Brigham and the other plaintiffs this past March. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker struck down parts of the law, ruling those sections violated the First and Four-

88

teenth Amendments and sections of the Voting Rights Act of 1995. The state appealed the ruling and asked the U.S. Circuit Court for a temporary stay on Walker's order. Last month, the appeals court granted the request, ruling that it is too close to an election for the lower court to change voting rules.

Meanwhile, DeSantis and the Florida Legislature have made even more changes to the state's election laws. On April 25, DeSantis signed SB 524, which created the Office of Election Crimes and Security to investigate voter fraud allegations, increased the criminal penalty for ballot harvesting, and further strengthened identification requirements for mail-in ballots.

Inweekly sat down with Escambia County Supervisor of Elections David H. Stafford to hear how these new laws affect his office, Escambia County's voters, and the 2022 primary and general elections.

"It's vitally important that voters prepare in advance to vote whether it's by mail, early in person or on election day," Stafford said.

VOTING BY MAIL

To be eligible to vote in the Aug. 23 primary, voters must register and make any changes to their party affiliation by July 25—29 days before the election. To help voters, the Supervisor of Elections Office has mailed over 14,000 letters to citizens missing crucial information needed for them to cast mail-in ballots in the 2022 election cycle.

Those who receive a letter are missing the additional identification now required to request a ballot—either a state ID card number, Florida driver's license or the last four digits of their Social Security. In past elections, citizens requesting a ballot would only have to provide their date of birth, full name and address. Many voters didn't have to supply the additional information when they registered to vote years ago.

The most efficient way to update a voter registration record is to use registertovoteflorida. gov. For those without internet access, a form was included with the letter that they can complete and return to the Elections Office.

The deadline to register for the upcoming primary election is July 25, and the deadline to register for the general election is Oct. 11.

A request for a mail-in ballot in prior voting cycles would last for two election cycles. Now, voters will have to request a new mail-in ballot with each new cycle.

"In early June, we are going to be sending out a new voter card to every single registered voter in Escambia County. That will have their most up-to-date information."

David H. Stafford A familiar voting staple has also changed. Instead of dropping their ballots in "drop boxes," voters will deposit them in "secure ballot intake stations." In addition to the name change, the intake stations will not be in 24/7 use. The restriction calls for them to only be available during early voting hours while under the supervision of polling staff.

Early voting begins Aug. 13 and lasts through Aug. 20, and each site will house one secure ballot intake station. Escambia's updated early voting sites have yet to be determined but can be found at escambiavotes.gov once released.

The new voting laws reiterate that voters will not receive a vote-by-mail ballot if they do not request one. Vote-by-mail ballots can be requested at escambiavotes.gov. The deadline to make the request is 5 p.m. on Aug. 10.

The governor and Florida lawmakers again targeted ballot harvesting in the 2022 Legislative Session. Stafford explained ballot harvesting.

"As of now, under the new laws, an individual, other than their immediate family, cannot handle more than two vote-by-mail ballots outside of themselves and their family in an election cycle," the election supervisor said. "There is a criminal penalty for someone to handle more than two in an election cycle."

In 2021, the criminal penalty for harvest-

ing more than two ballots, other than immediate family, during an election cycle was a misdemeanor of the first degree. With SB 524, the penalty has been increased to a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine and up to five years of probation.

The new laws do help voters better track their mail-in ballots. Voters can sign up to receive push notifications that will tell them when their ballot was mailed, returned, counted and if there are any issues.

"In early June, we are going to be sending out a new voter card to every single registered voter in Escambia County," Stafford said. "That will have their most up-to-date information."

With Pensacola's high military population, the new voting laws added more steps for voters who qualify for the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA).

UOCAVA voters will have to request a voteby-mail ballot more frequently. Stafford said it is essential to update and check voter information frequently to ease confusion and ensure that their vote is counted. Voters who qualify will still be allowed to receive their balloting materials electronically.

Like UOCAVA voters, voters with disabilities will have to deal with the same changes. Stafford added, "Beginning in this election cycle, voters with disabilities will have the ability to also receive their balloting materials electronically.

They will basically be treated similarly to UOCAVA voters."

COMMUNITY IMPACT

The Aug. 2022 primary election will be the first time these new voting laws will be in effect. How will Escambia County Voters react?

No one knows.

"It's something that remains to be seen— what the impact will be," Stafford said. He continued, "we deal with the policies that are handed down to us. We're just focused on implementing those changes as efficiently and with the least amount of disruption as possible."

He added, "Registering to vote and casting your ballot is the most direct way for citizens to be involved in their government." {in}

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LEATHERBACK IS BACK It's been a long time

coming, but a leatherback sea turtle has again been seen on Pensacola Beach. A large female was witnessed establishing her nest on the local beach recently.

"There are four species of turtles that nest here, and this is by far the most rare," said Tim Day, senior national resources manager of the Escambia County Natural Resources Management Department.

It's been decades since a leatherback sea turtle has been documented in Escambia County. While a leatherback nested on a Santa Rosa County beach in 2014, Day said Escambia hadn't seen one since probably 2000.

"We don't see them very often; they're normally around the Atlantic coast," Day said, explaining that when leatherbacks are found on Gulf beaches, it's typically in areas such as Destin or St. George.

Notable about the leatherback sea turtle is its impressive size. They can weigh in at 2,000 pounds. Day said, "It's the largest of the sea turtles and not uncommon for it to reach that 6-to8-foot range."

Day said that, as with any identified sea turtle nesting area, the leatherback's nest would be observed throughout the nesting season. Officials are hoping the nest is high enough on the beach in weather that is forecast to be a more intense than normal hurricane season.

Once the leatherback nest has hatched and the hatchlings have taken to the water, the turtle's eggs will be counted. Day predicted, "It will be something in excess of 100."

And the nest will also be inspected for signs of what may have happened to any of the eggs that did not hatch.

"Like a ghost crab digging in from the side and eating a couple of eggs or something," Day provided as an example.

Escambia County officials also have documented three loggerhead sea turtle nests since nesting season began on May 1. The season runs through October, peaking in July and August. All four of Escambia's nests have been located on

Pensacola Beach. Perdido Key has yet to have any nests established this season.

MAYOR'S FORUM A quartet of Pensacola

mayoral candidates fielded questions on Thursday, May 26, on a range of topics. Sponsored by Women for Responsible Legislation and held at Pensacola City Hall, the forum provided an opportunity for the candidates to not only stress their campaign themes but also distinguish themselves from each other.

Participating were Jewel Cannada-Wynn, Sherri Myers, D.C. Reeves and Steve Sharp. Cannada-Wynn and Myers pointed to their years on the Pensacola City Council. Reeves stressed his entrepreneurial background, while Sharp focused on his public service experience working with the school district and as a firefighter. James Hilburn and Timothy Horton, who have also pre-qualified, missed the forum.

The candidates shared their vision for the city's future. Cannada-Wynn stressed the need to consider all city residents when making decisions.

She said, "We must have an inclusive city. Even though people may say things in the city area are going great, everybody doesn't feel that way."

Myers' answer also referenced disparages between various city areas. She said, "What we need in this city is the culture of equity. Equity means fairness."

Sharp, meanwhile, considered public safety to be paramount. He said, "If we don't have a safe city, nothing else matters."

Reeves said that whatever direction the city takes in the future needs to be thoughtful and intentional. He said, "We have to seize opportunity with intentionality. We have to have a plan."

The candidates were asked to define affordable housing.

Myers said she would focus on housing for those on fixed incomes, such as senior citizens.

Cannada-Wynn explained that she traditionally considered something a teacher could afford to be affordable. Reeves similarly listed professionals, such as teachers and firefighters, as those who need affordable housing, or rather "workforce" housing. Sharp said he thought the definition of

affordable boiled down to "housing that the average person can afford."

The Port of Pensacola was also placed on the table during the WRL forum. Should the city pursue a path focused on an industrial waterfront port or rather be transformed into something different, perhaps with residential development?

"No, never," Cannada-Wynn balked at the notion of scrapping the city's working port, suggesting it could perhaps be a multi-use area.

Reeves also pitched blending uses, "Here's the beauty—we can have both," and Myers agreed, "I think we can have the port, and we can have appropriate mixed-use there."

Sharp, however, positioned himself as more of a traditionalist on this subject. He said, "Keep the port as it is. The port needs to be kept as a revenue generator. There doesn't need to be any residential development down there."

Another question featured in this forum appeared to wrap up both city planning and the more heated issue of Confederate monument removal. While the question did not mention specifically the city's Confederate monument that was removed in 2020, it instead referenced a preference between "heritage" and modern architecture, though the question did reference statues.

This vagueness led to some interesting answers. Cannada-Wynn appeared to miss the subtext and simply skimmed the surface—"preserving history is important to me."

Myers walked a weird line between embracing historical architecture and heralding her idea of a so-called unity project, which would aim to erect a more diverse array of monuments. Reeves, meanwhile, seem to fashion a response that could pivot in either direction. He said, "We will always be looking forward, but we will not mortgage the beauty and the architectural character we have in our downtown and our community."

Sharp addressed the monument issue headon—"In regards to monuments, I have a lot of people ask me about that. I don't think we get rid of old monuments. There are some things that disturb people, and I understand that, but we need to use those as a learning process. We don't just do away with the history of the city. Let's use that,

build on to it, and teach people about the history, the good and the bad."

AIRPORT MILESTONE HIT Project Titan, the $210 million Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility expansion at Pensacola International Airport, last week hit a significant milestone in the construction phase.

Construction crews from Brasfield & Gorrie recently held a "topping out" lunch reception to honor the hundreds of workers whose tireless efforts have contributed to the completion of the facility's exterior. A "topping out" ceremony celebrates the last beam, or its equivalent, being placed atop a structure during its construction.

"The journey to this construction milestone has required complex efforts and coordination, including the critical lifts to raise the 640-footlong, 865,000-pound box beam and the 600-footlong, 400,000-pound step beam," Vice President and Division Manager Michael Tortorici said. "It wouldn't be possible without our field forces and the support of Greenhut Construction, our trade contractors and the Pensacola International Airport. We're grateful for their collaboration."

The project is funded by multiple grants, including Triumph Gulf Coast, Governor's Job Growth Grant Fund, the U.S. Economic Development Administration and the Florida Department of Transportation, and in partnership with the City of Pensacola, Escambia County and ST Engineering. After completion, Project Titan is expected to provide 1,325 new, high-paying jobs in the aviation and aerospace sector.

ECSO TRANSPARENCY On Friday, May 20, Escambia County deputies responded to a call of a man who was acting erratically near the Brent Raiders Football Field. After brief resistance from the man, later identified as Frank Lugo, deputies handcuffed him and put him in the back of a police cruiser.

Lugo's health deteriorated, and EMS was called.

When they arrived, Lugo was pronounced dead.

On Monday, May 23, Sheriff Chip Simmons held a press conference and told reporters that he had terminated one of the deputies after his re-

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inweekly.net

view of the body cam video. The next morning, the sheriff appeared on Inweekly publisher Rick Outzen's radio show on WCOA 1370 AM. "We've never had body cameras in the sheriff's office, so we put them in," said Simmons. "When I looked at it, I mean, I was angered when there were some things I saw on the body camera footage that concerned me, and so I made the decision that the one deputy I would go ahead and release."

The other two have been suspended while they're investigated by the sheriff's office Internal Affairs and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Sheriff Simmons talked about his decision and expectations for the officers under his command.

"I think it's important, whether you're the chief of police, chief deputy, assistant county administrator, chief corrections officer or now the sheriff, to let people know that these are your expectations," said the sheriff. "We have a set of standards; anything less than that is unacceptable. And you continue to do that. You reinforce that day in and day out. But I also think that when that intersects with transparency, you have to get out and say, ‘Hey, what I saw, I did not like.'"

He added, "And I hope that the citizens of Escambia County understand that. If we see something, that we're going to tell people, ‘This is exactly what we know at this time.'"

OPEN OUR MUSEUM, PART 2 For one day only, the National Naval Aviation Museum will open to the public to present the Festival of Flight, honoring the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Midway, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, June 4.

Retired Navy aviator Kevin Miller wrote "The Silver Waterfall," a novel about the Battle of Midway. He told Inweekly that visitors to the museum can pay homage to the only remaining airplane that fought in the battle.

"It's an SBD Dauntless dive bomber flown by Marine 1st Lieutenant Dan Iverson and Private Wallace Reid in his backseat," said Miller. "That aircraft is on display, and Midway is a great momentous battle for all of our services. It was Navy, Marine Corps, Army and Army Air Forces that participated as a true, as we say, joint operation."

Meanwhile, the petition drive to let the Department of Defense and Navy brass know of the community's support for reopening public access to the museum continues to gather signatures at openourmuseum.org. The waiver for such access was suspended after the terrorist attack on the base in December 2019.

Ret. Rear Admiral Kyle Cozad, the president and CEO of the Navy Aviation Museum Foundation, is optimistic that the Festival of Flight will lead to more public access. He told Inweekly, "I view this before you win the marathon, before you run that race, you have to take a first step. And I view this as a really positive first step. And boy, we can't wait to open the doors and welcome everybody back to their museum."

Public access to NAS Pensacola on June 4 will be available from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. only, through the West Gate at 1878 S. Blue Angel Parkway. All guests 18 and older must have a valid picture ID such as a driver's license or passport. While on base, the public will only be able to visit the National Naval Aviation Museum and Pensacola Lighthouse.

FINDING POOP Knowing that the waters off

Bruce Beach in downtown Pensacola are fouled with human waste is one thing. Figuring out the source of the contamination is quite another.

This became clear during the first public disJune 2, 2022

cussion between the two entities addressing this issue when Pensacola officials inquired about the estimated timeline for the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority to determine how sewage is entering the stormwater system.

"The only challenge in answering that question is knowing what we'll find and how quickly we'll be able to find it," said Don Palmer, ECUA's deputy executive director of engineering and environmental services, during the Pensacola City Council's Agenda Review on Monday, May 23.

Palmer informed the city that much of the downtown area had already been inspected and upgraded over the past decade as part of the agency's ongoing efforts to address aging, leaking infrastructure regionwide as per the requirements of a 2012 consent order issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Downtown's sewage infrastructure is some of the city's oldest, with terracotta pipes dating back to the late 1800s. As such, the area was among the first that ECUA addressed under the consent order, essentially replacing the terracotta pipes via a cast-in-place method that overlaid a continuous pipeline along with the old infrastructure.

"Most prioritized areas are actually in the downtown area," Palmer explained, "and that would make sense in terms of age."

Since 2012, ECUA has spent about $76 million on infrastructure rehab. About $25 million of that amount has been expended in downtown Pensacola. According to Palmer, while ECUA has rehabilitated much of downtown's wastewater infrastructure, approximately 30% of the infrastructure—the lateral lines traveling off the main lines—are privately owned and remain largely untended.

Over the next 30 days, ECUA plans to conduct dye testing, detergent testing and fecal testing of the wastewater lines. While dye and detergent testing will produce more immediate in-thefield results, the fecal tests must be sent to a lab.

ECUA will also inspect some of downtown's more significant wastewater sources, such as Pensacola City Hall and the judicial center, to ensure those lateral lines are sound.

Palmer cautioned city officials that determining the source of wastewater infiltration to the stormwater system may be a difficult, lengthy process.

The effort to address the sewage problem at Bruce Beach has taken on a sense of urgency. City officials want to address the issue as they move forward with nearly $7 million in improvements slated for the municipal beach, which are meant to attract more people to the waterfront. {in} 11

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13

a&e happenings BEACH SEASON UPDATES

FREE TROLLEY RIDES TO PENSACOLA BEACH The 2022 Pensacola Beach Island Trol-

CLASSIC BALLE T THEATER

THE INTERNATIONAL

JUNE 12TH 2PM & 8PM

THE SAENGER THEATRE PensacolaSaenger.com/Events

ley, operated by Escambia County Area Transit, will run daily from 4 p.m.-midnight through Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 5.

Three trolleys will operate concurrently, running three routes. The eastern route runs from Casino Beach to Portofino, the western route runs from Casino Beach to Park West near the entrance gate to Gulf Islands National Seashore, and the commercial core route runs from Casino Beach to Grand Marlin with stops occurring along the new access road and at Pensacola Beach Boardwalk.

Visitors can access the real-time trolley schedule four ways: •Visit the "Trolley Tracker" at visitpensacolabeach.com/trolleytracker •Call (850) 602-9384 and enter the trolley stop number •Text SRIA (space) and the trolley stop number to 41411 •Scan the QR code posted at each trolley stop with a smartphone

NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS

ANIMAL ALLIES BINGO Animal Allies Florida is hosting Bingo at Scenic Hills Country Club, located at 8891 Burning Tree Road, twice a month.

Dates are June 7 & 21, July 12 & 26, Aug. 9 & 23, Sept. 6 & 20, Oct. 4 & 18, Nov. 8 & 22 and Dec. 6 & 20. Proceeds go to help local animals. The fun starts at 7 p.m. $10 gets you 30 cards. Winners share the pot. Food and drink will be available for purchase. You must be 18 years old to play.

ARTS & CULTURE

WHAT'S SHOWING AT PENSACOLA CINEMA ART PCA is located at the Studer Com-

munity Institute, 220 W. Garden St. "Everything Everywhere All at Once" is coming soon. Visit pensacolacinemaart.com for more information and the latest showtimes.

THE D&D MONOLOGUES Pensacola Little

Theatre's Improv Academy presents their first original play about the classic fantasy game. Showtime is Thursday, June 2, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for more information.

GRAND FIESTA PARADE Come catch some beads, hear the sounds of local high school marching bands and enjoy watching beautiful floats parade through downtown beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, June 3.

MASTER CLASSES

with MARINA MEDVETSKAYA

JUNE 13TH 1PM & 3PM

TICKETS AVAILABLE ON TICKETMASTER 414 1

WATERBOYZ SKATEBOARD ART SHOW

Join Waterboyz, 380 N. Ninth Ave., Saturday, June 4, for the WBZ Skateboard Art Show with live music from Panzacola. Visit facebook.com/ waterboyzsurfandskate for more information.

FIESTA BOAT PARADE Visit DeLuna Court, 900 S. Palafox, to watch the parade of vessels through Pensacola Bay on Saturday, June 4, at 12:30 p.m.

FIVE FLAGS DANCE ACADEMY Watch Five

Flags Dance Academy Sunday on June 5 at 2 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox.

Tickets are $28-$31. Visit pensacolasaenger. com for more information.

SEA TURTLE BABY SHOWER Support sea turtles and their offspring from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, June 4, at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. There will be 20 exhibitors with education materials, activities and giveaways.

Want to be the 2022 Sea Turtle Queen? Make a $5 donation and register for a drawing to become the queen. Donations can be made online at pbadvocates.org or at the event. The queen is given a custom tiara designed by Sheri Tigue of Nashville along with a queen's sash and also rides in the Pensacola Beach Christmas parade. The Sea Turtle Queen's name is drawn at random. You do not need to be present to win.

NATIONAL AVIATION MUSEUM: FESTIVAL OF FLIGHT For one day only, the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) will open to the public to present the Festival of Flight, honoring the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Midway, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, June 4.

The day-long family festival will include performances by the Blue Anchor Belles, kid crafts, story time, scavenger hunts, Battle of Midway flight stations, $5 movies, a "Flight Adventure Deck" experience, food truck vendors, National Flight Academy tours, prize drawings, gift shop giveaways and more.

Public access to NAS Pensacola on June 4 will be available from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. only through the West Gate at 1878 S. Blue Angel Parkway. All guests 18 and older must have a valid picture ID such as a driver's license or passport. While on base, the public will be able to visit the National Naval Aviation Museum and Pensacola Lighthouse, only. Access onto the base will be dependent on available parking at the museum and lighthouse. Once parking is full, public access will be halted until more parking becomes available.

HOLLYWOOD MURDER MYSTERY AT GARDEN & GRAIN Enjoy an interactive murder mys-

tery dinner show where you solve the crime 6:309:30 p.m. Sunday, June 5, at Garden & Grain, 50 E. Garden St. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased through the link at facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

WORLD OCEAN DAY Tuesday, June 8, will be a day of environmentally focused games, activities and art projects at the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor's Center, located at 15500 Perdido Key Drive. Stop by for activities and educational materials and a live feeding of lionfish in the display tank at the center.

EMOPROM: YOU'RE SO LAST SUMMER EDITION Come dance, mosh and scream along

with your best Emo/Punk Rock/Underground music and music videos of the past decade, note for note just like you remember. Prom is Friday, June 10. Early entry is 8 p.m. and general admission is 9 p.m. Tickets are $25. Visit vinylmusichall.com for more information.

A CHORUS LINE The classic concept musical

about a Broadway chorus audition comes to the PLT stage. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fridays, June 10, 17 and 24; 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 11, 18 and 25;

7:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 16 and 23; and 2:30 p.m.

Sundays, June 12, 19 and 26. Tickets are $9-$33. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for more information.

UNDER THE SEA LaBelle Performing Arts'

2022 showcase is "Under the Sea" featuring LPA's pre-school and elementary classes, the LaBelle Performing Arts Company, Pensacola Youth Ballet and special performances from graduating seniors on Friday, June 10, at 6 p.m. Visit pensacolasaenger.com for more information.

LITTLE MERMAID The classic Hans Christian Andersen "tail" is brought to life with the special LaBelle twist 6 p.m. Saturday, June 11. This full production with dance, theater and singing features LPA students. For more information, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

POLLINATORS: WHO THEY ARE AND WHY WE NEED THEM Join Earth Ethics for a dis-

cussion on "Pollinators: Who they are and why we need them," on Monday, June 13, at 6 p.m. at Ever'man Education Center, 327 W. Garden Street. The guest speaker is Beth R. Bolles, Horticulture Agent IV, UF IFAS Extension Escambia County.

Earth Ethics will provide a limited supply of gardening gloves, so bring your own if you have some. You will be potting some pollinator attractor plants to take home with you. Children are welcomed.

The group will be planting 31 seeds for the 31 lives lost in the recent mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde. These in memoriam plants will be seeded by participants. Each participant will be encouraged to take them hope and plant in their yards to honor of each life lost. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to earthethicsaction@gmail.com.

OPERA AL FRESCO Enjoy an evening of beau-

tiful music—al fresco. This special pop-up concert series brings live music to parks and green spaces around town via Pensacola Opera's StageMobile. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and listen to popular tunes featuring Sheila Dunn, Allanda Small Campbell and Corey McKern, accompanied by Cody Martin, Saturday, June 18, at 6 p.m. at H.K. Matthews Park. Cost is free.

Visit pensacolaopera.com.

LIFE DRAWING GROUP AT ARTEL Artel's life drawing group meets every Monday, except holidays, from 6-9 p.m. in Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox.

For more information, contact Melvin at (850) 549-8783 or visit artelgallery.org.

PENSACOLA ARTS MARKET Enjoy shopping

for a variety of handcrafted wares at Pensacola Arts Market Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1401 W. Intendencia St. Enjoy art, espresso, vintage goods, baked treats, handcrafted unique gifts and more. Admission is free. For more information, visit facebook.com/pensacolaartsmarket.

EASY GOING GALLERY ART MARKET Every Sunday, Easy Going Gallery and Carter J Studios present a weekly art market Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Easy Going Gallery, located at 701 N. V St. Enjoy art, espresso, vintage goods, baked treats, handcrafted unique gifts and more. Vendors can participate for a $20 fee. inweekly.net

a&e happenings For more information, contact easygoinggalleryart@gmail.com.

THE MAROON MARINES: ARCHAEOLOGY AT PROSPECT BLUFF A new temporary exhibit

at The Destination Archaeology Resource Center, located at 207 E. Main St., features the story of the largest free black settlement in what is now the United States. This exhibit is sponsored by City of Pensacola Councilmember Teniadé Broughton.

During the War of 1812, a fort was built by Black British Colonial Marines and Indigenous people along the Apalachicola River. Called "Negro Fort" by American officials, it eventually became the center of the largest free Black settlement in what is now the United States. When the war ended, the U.S. believed the fort threatened the institution of slavery and must be destroyed.

To the Maroon people who lived there, however, the fort at Prospect Bluff was a beacon of freedom worth fighting for.

For more information, visit fpan.us.

MAN OF MANY FACES A new exhibit from

artist Wes Hinds is on view at Easy Going Gallery, 701 N. V St. Exhibit on view through June 16. Visit facebook.com/easygoinggallery for more information.

"KEEP IT 100" AT ARTEL GALLERY Back by

popular demand for the third year is the "Keep it 100," where all pieces are for sale and priced at $100. The exhibit is a juried show with Jimmy Rhea, professor at Pensacola State College, as juror. The exhibit will be on view through June 24. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox. Visit artelgallery.org for more information.

ART OF THE POSTER One of the latest Artel

exhibits will be posters from Rick Otoupalik, the artist behind all of Artel's promotional posters for the past 20 years. The exhibit will be on view through June 24. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox. Visit artelgallery.org for more information.

DON MANDERSON AT ARTEL GALLERY

Graphic artist Don Manderson will have an exhibit on view at Artel Gallery through June 24. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox. Visit artelgallery.org for more information.

The exhibit explores the shifting topography of Northwest Florida through a series of maps selected from the Trust Archive. Visualized Landscapes: A Selection of Northwest Florida Maps is on view on the second floor of the Pensacola Museum of History until August.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit historicpensacola.org.

2000 MEN: BLACK POLITICIANS DURING RECONSTRUCTION A new exhibit at

the Pensacola Museum of History shares the stories and histories of Black politicians during the Reconstruction period. The Pensacola Museum of History is located at 330 S. Jefferson St. For more information, visit historicpensacola.org.

FINDING 1821 Finding 1821 is part of the

UWF Historic Trust's Suddenly American exhibit. Using historic newspapers, maps and documents, it is possible to locate where businesses stood in the 1820s. From taverns to parasol shops, each site on the Finding 1821 trail reflects a local establishment that was near that location 200 years ago. Outside each business is a QR code that links to a corresponding advert from an early 1820s newspaper. Over a dozen sites have been identified so far. Take a stroll around town, visit local shops and explore the history of Pensacola through today's technology. Visit historicpensacola.org for more information.

SCRIPTEASERS WITH PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE Scripteasers, Studio 400's and Pen-

sacola Little Theatre's Script Reading Club invites you to monthly script readings at PLT, 400 S. Jefferson St. Want to bring your scripts for the group to read and discuss? Contact Pensacola Little Theatre to get in queue. The group reads prospective scripts for future seasons as well as new scripts that need a table read before the next edit. Not a playwright but love to read out loud? This is your easy, fun theatre night. Fascinated by the play selection process? Sit in for a listen and usually a lot of laughs. Visit facebook. com/pensacolalittletheatre for more information and the latest dates.

hibit, "New Beginnings," runs through June 11. The show is free and open to the public during normal Gallery 1060 open hours. More information can be found at gallery1060.com.

OPEN MIC AT THE GORDON Show off your talents on the second Thursday of every month at The Gordon's Open Mic showcase from 7-10 p.m. Admission is free. The Gordon is located at 306 N. DeVilliers St. Visit thegordon.org for more information.

GOODS OF DESIRES PMA's exhibition Goods

OPEN MIC COMEDY AT BIG TOP BREWERY

NEW BEGINNINGS Gallery 1060's newest ex-

of Desires from artist Cindy Leung is on view through Sept. 4. The exhibit uses Chinese exports to address the complex relationship between consumerism, colonization and cultural hybridity, as they originated in the East and were popularized in the West through trading and British colonization. Visit pensacolamuseum.org for details.

MAPPING NORTHWEST FLORIDA EXHIBIT AT THE PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF HISTORY Visualized Landscapes: A Selection of North-

west Florida Maps is now on view at Pensacola Museum of History.

June 2, 2022

Try out some new jokes or enjoy some homegrown talent every Monday at 7 p.m. for Open Mic Comedy at Big Top Brewery, located at 21 W. Romano St. Everyone gets five minutes depending on the number of sign-ups. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m.

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS AT FIRST CITY ART First City Art Center offers a wide

range of classes and workshops for artists of all levels. Classes include glass blowing, ceramics, painting and drawing, kiln-forming, stained glass and more. For a complete list of classes and times, visit firstcityart.org.

15

a&e happenings FOOD + DRINKS

ATLAS BEVERAGE CLASS The next Atlas Beverage Class is Thursday, June 2, with Fairhope Brewing Co. Classes are 5 and 7 p.m. at Atlas Beverage Class, 600 S. Barracks St. Tickets are $25 per person. Visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com for more information.

AGAPI WINE FESTIVAL The Agapi Wine Festival is rescheduled for Sunday, June 5, from 3-6 p.m. at Agapi, 555 Scenic Highway. Tickets are $55. If you purchased tickets and can't make the rescheduled date, call (850) 813-5683. Visit myagapi.com for more information.

TRIVIA NIGHT AT PERFECT PLAIN Play trivia and imbibe at Ultimate General Knowledge Trivia Night 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 7. Come dressed as your favorite brainiac and receive Happy Hour Beers all night long. Visit facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco for more information.

VINO MAGNIFICO Join V. Paul's, 29 S. Palafox, for Vino Magnifico on Tuesday, June 14, at 5:30 p.m., and taste five wines for $15. RSVP is required. Reserve your spot at vpauls.com.

COOKING WITH CHEF IRV MILLER: SAVORING SUMMER SUPPER Join Chef Irv

Miller of Jackson's Steakhouse and learn some summer dishes Wednesday, June 15. Classes are 5 and 7:30 p.m. Cost is $55 each and includes the demonstration, tastings and a take-home recipe

booklet. Reservations are required, make yours by calling Jessica Edwards Ryberg at (850) 686-3149 or email jessica@goodgrits.com.

cocktail menu including items such as Spicy Paloma made with Mezcal, a cold brew cocktail with Irish whiskey, a cucumber-infused spritz and a Bloody Mary spiced with house-made hot sauce and garnished with fresh pickled vegetables. Price range is $9-$12. Brunch hours are Sundays from noon-4 p.m. Other small plate offerings are available Thursday-Saturday from 4 p.m.-one hour before closing. For more information, visit facebook.com/thewellpensacola.

AN EVENING WITH TUSCANY WINES: A FOOD AND WINE EVENT Angelena's is of-

ferings a special food and wine event celebrating wines of Tuscany Thursday, June 16, at 6 p.m. Cost is $150 per person. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (850) 542-8398. For a full menu, visit angelenaspensacola.com.

FISH HOUSE CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL The

BURGERS AND BORDEAUX AT UNION PUBLIC HOUSE Every Tuesday night, enjoy

FINE WINE FRIDAY Visit The Nest General

WINE WEDNESDAY Visit The Nest General

annual Fish House Craft Beer Festival will be Saturday, June 18, from 3-6 p.m. at 600 S. Barracks St. Tickets are $25-$35. Get yours at fishhousepensacola.com or by calling 470-0003.

a specialty burger and a glass of Bordeaux for $18 at Union Public House, located at 309 S. Reus St. For more information, visit facebook. com/unionpensacola.

Store at 11 S. Palafox, Ste. C, on the first Friday of every month for a wine tasting from 6-8 p.m. It's $35 a person and includes charcuterie and the opportunity to try their monthly wine club offerings in house.

The June tasting theme is "Pride." Visit thenestgeneralstore.com/events for more information.

Store at 11 S. Palafox, Ste. C, every Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. for a wine happy hour. Deals include $1 off listed by-the-glass wines, a waived corking fee, charcuterie plates and a $15 ‘wine flight' option. Visit thenestgeneralstore.com/events for more information.

MONTHLY WINE TASTING IN AGAPI GARDEN Visit Agapi Garden, at 555 Scenic Highway,

WEEKNIGHT HAPPY HOUR Every weeknight

before 6 p.m. at The 5 Barrel, get $1 off all The 5 Barrel pints, $2 wine by the glass and half off hummus plates when you buy a pint of beer. Visit the5barrel.com for more information.

from 5-7 p.m., to sample five wines for $10. For more information, call (850) 813-5683.

SUNDAY FUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE WELL

TABLETOP TUESDAYS AT THE 5 BARREL

The Well, located at 42 E. Garden St., has expanded its offerings with a Sunday Funday Brunch

AYCE: FAT

Tuesday

AYCE Buffet (90-min.) + Game Ticket & Hat for ONLY $26!

ONE PRICE

Wednesday

Biloxi Shuckers

June 1 • 6:35 pm

All tickets include a hot dog, chips, & soda FOR JUST $17!

Wednesday Night Fireworks!

Hurricane Prep Night

June 2 • 6:35 pm Enjoy Drink Specials Including $2 drafts & BOGO domestic cans!

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BW0654_Homestand5_vs_Shuckers_IN-Half-Page.indd 1

Aragon Wine Market are back every Thursday from 5-7 p.m. in store at 27 S. Ninth Ave. For more information, visit aragonwinemarket.com.

THURSDAY TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE 5 BARREL Gather a group for a weekly Thursday Trivia Night Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. at The 5 Barrel.

There will be prizes for every round and select drafts for $3. Find out more at facebook.com/ the5barrel.

THURSDAY BIERGARTEN TRIVIA NIGHT

Gary's Brewery Trivia Night is back by popular demand. Thursdays from 7-9 p.m., test your trivia skills with a glass of beer or wine. Arrive early to grab a spot. Gary's Brewery is located at 208 Newman Ave. For more information, visit facebook. com/garysbrew.

EVER'MARKET AT NINE MILE ROAD Visit Ever'Man at 1000 E. Nine Mile Road on the fourth Saturday of each month for the Ever'Market with food, music, giveaways, activities and more. Visit everman.org for more information. for more listings visit inweekly.net

GIVEAWAY

Friday

June 3 • 6:35 pm Bucket Hat Giveaway for the first 2,000 fans

FIREWORKS

Saturday

June 4 • 6:05 pm Pensacola’s BEST Fireworks after the game!

MULLET

Thursday

ARAGON WINE TASTINGS Wine tastings at

Join The 5 Barrel for a special Tabletop Tuesday

MAY 31JUNE 5

May 31 • 6:35 pm

event at 6 p.m. every Tuesday in March. A wide variety of games ranging from the classic chess to the crowd favorite Catan will be available. Players are welcome to bring their own games.

DOUBLE-A AFFILIATES

NEXT HOMESTAND: JUNE 14-19 VS. TENNESSEE SMOKIES TUNE IN TO CATCH THE GAMES ON

GAME TIMES

|

|

Mon.-Fri. 6:35 pm Sat. 6:05 pm Sun. 4:05 pm All pre-game activities start 45 minutes prior to game time.

MILITARY FAMILY

Sunday

June 5 • 4:05 pm Kids Run the Bases and Family Toss after the game inweekly.net

5/24/22 3:05 PM

June 2, 2022

17

free will astrology WEEK OF JUNE 2 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Who loves the

truth better than you Aries people? Who has the greatest potential to speak the real story in every situation, even when it requires extra courage?

Who has more fun than you in discovering and defining and expressing the raw facts? In my Book of Life, you Rams are radiant beacons of candor— the people I go to when I need accuracy and honesty. And all I'm saying here will be especially crucial in the coming weeks. The whole world needs concentrated doses of your authenticity. Now read this pep talk from Aries philosopher St. Catherine of Siena—"Let the truth be your delight; let it always be in your mouth, and proclaim it when it is needed. Proclaim it lovingly and to everyone, especially those you love with a special love—but with a certain congeniality."

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Before the 20th century, you couldn't buy a loaf of bread that was already sliced into thin pieces. Then in 1912, the American inventor Otto Frederick Rohwedder developed a slicing machine. But all his work, including the blueprints and the machine prototypes, was destroyed in a fire. He had to seek new funding and begin again. Sixteen years later, his innovation was finally ready for broad public use.

Within five years, most of the bread in the US was sold sliced. What does this have to do with you? I am picking up an Otto Frederick Rohwedder vibe when I turn my visions to you, Taurus. I suspect that in the coming months, you, too, will fulfill a postponed dream.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): A blogger

named Sweetlikeacherry reminds us, "Some epiphanies are only possible when you put away your phone and go completely offline for a while."

She adds that sometimes you also need to at least partially avoid your phone and the internet if you hope to incubate new visions of the future and unlock important discoveries in your creative work and summon your untamed genius. According to my astrological analysis, all these possibilities are especially likely and necessary for you in the coming weeks. I trust you will carry out the necessary liberations to take full advantage.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): Poet Carolyn

Kizer (1925–2014) won a Pulitzer Prize for her po-

By Rob Brezsny

etry. She was smart! But when she was young and still studying her craft in college, a professor objected to one of her poems. He said, "You have pigs in this poem; pigs are not poetic." Kizer was incensed at such ignorance. She testified, "I got up and walked out of that class and never went back." Judging from the astrological omens, I suspect you may have comparable showdowns headed your way. I advise you to be like Kizer. You are the only one who truly knows the proper subjects of your quest. No one else has the right or the insight to tell you what your work (or play) should be about.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Leo author James

Baldwin said it wasn't often "that two people can laugh and make love, too—make love because they are laughing and laugh because they're making love. The love and the laughter come from the same place: but not many people go there." Your assignment, Leo, is to be the exception to Baldwin's rule during the coming weeks. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, there's a high possibility that interesting eros can converge with humorous fun in a glorious synergy. You will have a knack for conjuring up ribald encounters and jovial orgasms. Your intuition will guide you to shed the solemnity from your bliss and replace it with sunny, carefree cheer.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): I'm worried you will over-indulge in your pursuit of perfection during the coming weeks. It's fine to be exquisitely skillful and masterful; I hope you do that. But if you get obsessed with flawlessness, you will risk undoing your good intentions. As an antidote, I offer you two pieces of advice. The first is from actor and activist Jane Fonda. She said, "We are not meant to be perfect; we are meant to be whole." The second counsel is from philosopher and psychologist William James, who wrote, "Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence."

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): Author Musta-

fa Mahmoud described the signs of love between two people: 1. feeling a comfortable familiarity; 2. having no urge or need to lie; 3. being natural, not trying to be different from who one is; 4. having little or no possibility of being embarrassed in front of the other person; 5. experiencing silence as delicious, not alienating; 6. enjoying the act of

listening to the other person. I bring these pointers to your attention, Libra, because the coming months will be a favorable time to define and redefine your understandings about the signs of love. How do you feel about Mahmoud's ideas?

Are there any more you would like to add?

Now is a perfect time for you and your loved ones to acknowledge, honor, and celebrate the ways your love has changed each other. It may be true that some transformations have been less than ideal.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): "We do not

love each other without changing each other," wrote author Madeleine L'Engle. Meditate on that gem, Scorpio. Now is a perfect time for you and your loved ones to acknowledge, honor, and celebrate the ways your love has changed each other. It may be true that some transformations have been less than ideal. If that's the case, the coming weeks will be a favorable time to correct those trends. As for the positive changes that you and your allies have stimulated in each other: I hope you will name them and pledge to keep doing more of that good work.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): "I al-

ways deserve the best treatment, because I never put up with any other," wrote Sagittarian novelist Jane Austen. Sagittarian politician Stacey Abrams said, "From the moment I enter a room, I am clear about how I intend to be treated and how I intend to engage." You'll be wise to cultivate those attitudes in the next seven weeks, Sagittarius. It's high time for you to raise your self-respect in ways that inspire others to elevate their appreciation and regard for you.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): In 1963, Jim Munro and Alice Munro founded Munro's Books, a store in Victoria, British Columbia. After being on the job for a few months, Al-

ice found she was not impressed with many of the products they sold. "I can write better books than this," she told Jim. Five years later, she published her first collection of short stories, “Dance of the Happy Shades.” Fourteen books later, she won the Nobel Prize in Literature. Will the coming months bring your equivalent of Alice Munro's pivotal resolution? I suspect they could.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): "True love

for whatever you are doing is the answer to everything," proclaimed performance artist Marina Abramovic. Amen to that righteous attitude!

I hope you will embrace it in the coming weeks. I hope your heart and imagination will reveal all you need to know to bring tender fresh streams of true love to the essential activities of your life. Now is an excellent time to redefine the meaning of the word "love" so it applies to all your relationships and pursuits.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): A homeless

woman in a wheelchair stopped where I was sitting outside a café. She was pushing her belongings in a small shopping cart. "Would you like to go dancing?" she said to me. "There's a nearby park that has a great grassy dance floor."

"Maybe another day," I told her. "My energy is low. I've had a lot of personal challenges lately." I'm sure the expression on my face was lessthan-ebullient. "Cheer up, mister," she told me.

"I'm psychic, and I can tell you for sure that you will live a long life and have many more fine adventures. I'll be in the park if you change your mind." My mood instantly brightened. "Thanks!"

I yelled toward her as she rolled away. Now I predict that you, Pisces, will have comparable experiences in the coming days. Are you willing to welcome uplifting surprises?

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: If there were a clone of you, what alternate life might they be living? newsletter.freewillastrology.com {in}

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news of the weird WHAT COULD GO WRONG? More than 800 New Yorkers aged 75 and older are going to get a new friend, The Verge reported. The New York State Office for the Aging is distributing robot companions named ElliQ, built by Israeli company Intuition Robotics, to help with social isolation—for example, engaging in small talk and helping contact loved ones. "It focuses on what matters to individuals: memories, life validation, interactions with friends and families," said NYSOA director Greg Olsen. Intuition Robotics said ElliQ can project empathy and form bonds with users, even cracking jokes for users who tend to laugh a lot.

FINE POINTS OF THE LAW According to the Conrad Public School District in Conrad, Montana, there's an old law on the books that stipulates that a school principal is responsible for feeding and tending a horse if a student rides it to school. On May 23, WTHR-TV reported, 12 students at Conrad High School put the statute to the test, riding their steeds up to the school and leaving them in the care of Principal Raymond DeBruycker throughout the school day. Apparently DeBruycker had no time to comment while he kept his charges watered and fed and (presumably) mucked the parking lot.

FINE POINTS OF THE LAW According to the Conrad Public School District in Conrad, Montana, there's an old law on the books that stipulates that a school principal is responsible for feeding and tending a horse if a student rides it to school. On May 23, WTHR-TV reported, 12 students at Conrad High School put the statute to the test, riding their steeds up to the school and leaving them in the care of Principal Raymond DeBruycker throughout the school day. Apparently DeBruycker had no time to comment while he kept his charges watered and fed and (presumably) mucked the parking lot.

CRIMINAL NO LONGER ON THE LAM(B) In South Sudan, inmates at a military camp have a new jailbird to get to know—or maybe that should be "jailsheep." NBC Montana reported that the ram was arrested and convicted in May of murdering an African woman "by hitting her in the ribs and the old woman died immediately," said police chief Major Elijah Mabor. "The owner is innocent, and the ram is the one who perpetrated the crime, so it deserves to be arrested."

However, the owner has also been ordered to pay five cows to the victim's family.

WEIRD SCIENCE The Cambodian Ministry of Environment has taken to Facebook to plead with the public to stop picking a rare carnivorous plant known as a "pitcher plant" for the way it captures insects, Live Science reported on May 17. The plant, Nepenthes bokorensis, could be driven to extinction if people continue to harvest it, scientists warn. So why, you might ask, are people, particularly women, so drawn to picking the plants and having their photos taken with them? While the leaves are still developing, the mouths of the plants resemble men's genitalia. "If people are interested,

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

even in a funny way, to pose, to make selfies, with the plants, it's fine," said Francois Mey, a botanical illustrator. "Just do not pick the pitchers, because it weakens the plant."

LOSE SOMETHING? Iberia Parish (Louisiana) Sheriff's officers were called out at 3:30 a.m. on May 22 because of a house found abandoned on a trailer attached to a truck, KATC-TV reported. The rig was blocking the road, and signs, mailboxes and trees had been damaged along the street. In addition, power lines and poles had been hit, knocking out power to about 700 customers in the area.

Deputies arrested Tony Domingue, 46, and Nico Comeaux, 32; they had been told they needed permits to move the home, but they went ahead and tried to do it on their own anyway. Both men were held at the Iberia Parish jail.

I'LL HAVE THE PASTA Florida International University recently published a three-year study of bonefish living off the South Florida coast that might make you rethink your entree order. The fish they studied averaged seven pharmaceutical drugs, with at least one containing 17 different substances, ClickOrlando.com reported. Lead researcher Jennifer Rehage said the drugs are entering the fisheries through the wastewater systems and include blood pressure medications, antidepressants, antibiotics and pain relievers, among other medicines. Researchers said the drugs could also be changing the fishes' behavior, making them more susceptible to predators, or affecting their reproduction.

SUSPICIONS CONFIRMED Marilyn McMichael, 54, of Queens, New York, was reported missing in January by two of her foster sisters, Simone Best Jones and Sharman McElrath, WPIX-TV reported on May 24. They had not seen or heard from her since June 2020, when she called them during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying she wanted to go to the hospital. McElrath said they did go to her apartment, but she didn't come to the door. Best Jones said this wasn't unusual for McMichael: "She wouldn't talk to us for years, because she didn't want to. She was particular—and peculiar." When they tried to file a missing person report in January, officials said they couldn't because they weren't next of kin. And police told them McMichael might have "been on vacation." The sisters asked the building manager to go with them to the apartment, but when the master key didn't work, "they never tried again," Best Jones said. But on April 26, as New York City Housing Authority construction workers did maintenance on scaffolding outside her bedroom window, they saw McMichael's skeleton on her bed. The sisters announced her death on Facebook: "We wanted her to have a voice through us, knowing 'I was here, and I had a life on this Earth,'" McElrath said. {in}

From Andrews McMeel Syndication News Of The Weird © 2022 Andrews McMeel

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com June 2, 2022

Together Pensacola sponsored an essay contest for elementary, middle and high school students.

The theme was “I Dream A World.”

Together Pensacola is a group of concerned citizens who come together to brainstorm and discuss ways to help build connections and strengthen relationships between and among people in the Pensacola Bay area. The group focuses on what unites us rather than on our differences and what separates us. Its goal is to promote and introduce ideas and activities to implement this brand of community building. Together Pensacola’s leadership team includes Brunie Emmanuel, Ross Goodman, Mamie Webb Hixon, Kathleen Logan, Juanita Scott and Sue Straughn. To learn more, visit togetherpensacola.com.

High School Winners: First place: Makayla Quibodeaux , Booker T. Washington High Second place: Marina Deubler, Booker T. Washington High School Third place: Angelica King, Booker T. Washington High School

“I DREAM A WORLD” BY MAKAYLA QUIBODEAUX 11TH GRADE, WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL (1ST PLACE) In 1945, Langston Hughes, a prolific poet and civil rights advocate, published a poem titled “I Dream A World.” In his poem, he illustrates his beliefs about racial equality and the hopes that everyone, despite race or gender, should be treated with the utmost respect. About 80 years later, in 2022, we are still battling those same battles like racial injustice and a lack of inclusivity in our world. If I were to dream of the world I would want to live in, my world would have a more accepting and understanding group of people inhabiting it so that everyone feels respected.

The Earth is a planet with over 600 ethnic groups and 190 countries. Within these groups, there are a number of different cultures, religions, and beliefs across the globe. There is an incredible amount of diversity, so I want my world to have the same amount. I want one crucial difference: In my world, everyone would accept all of the different cultures, beliefs, and ethnicities that would inhabit it. Langston Hughes once said, “When a man starts to build a world, he starts first with himself.” This quote resonates with me because it shows the importance of building something starting with equitable beliefs and the right intentions. If the man himself is not establishing his world in love and acceptance, then that world will be corrupt. The world has progressed so far from the hate that it was built upon, but nevertheless still needs a lot more room to improve. In my perfect world, I would want everyone to accept all of the differences among people. Everyone would understand that everyone comes from different backgrounds, whether that is financially, racially, or culturally so that everyone feels accepted and understood.

In addition to people being more accepting in my world, everyone will be more understanding. Most people judge others because they have insecurities or because they come from a family of hatred. MLK said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” This quote is relevant because it is equivalent To saying if we had more love and understanding in the world, more people would feel accepted, and fewer would retaliate with hatred. The people in my world would be able to overcome their pride and insecurities so they would be able to understand everyone’s differences better. If people could grasp the differences between one another, then the long line of hatred and anger could end with one person changing their mindset.

Acceptance and understanding go hand in hand. You cannot possess understanding without acceptance, and you can’t obtain acceptance without understanding. If I were to dream of a world, everyone in my world would follow in Langton Hughes’s footsteps by accepting everyone’s differences and understanding all people’s unique backgrounds. To spread love and not hostility through all lives, people in my world would not fight fire with fire but exterminate the fire with fondness.

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