Pensacola March 2016

Pensacola

MARCH 2016

PensacolaLifestylePubs.com

L

I

F

E

S

T

Y

L

E

™

Local Legends BAND WITH GULF BREEZE TIES HITS NATIONAL STAGE

PENSACOLA NATIVE NOW BUSINESS BIGWIG AUTHOR LAUNCHES WILDLY SUCCESSFUL BOOK COOL COCKTAILS WELCOME WARMER WEATHER

C ALL TODAY FOR A TOUR !

Now Open!

Ready to make new friends and enjoy a carefree lifestyle?

Summer Vista is the place for you. Our specially trained staff will cater to your needs in a secure, comfortable and active environment. Visit with friends while enjoying delicious meals prepared by our chef. After dinner take a walk on our nature trail or just relax and read a book.

Regardless of how you spend your time - you will always feel at home at Summer Vista.

We also offer a specialized, home-like environment for residents with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias.

(850) 434-3232 F E AT U R E D B E N E F I T S Studio/1BR/2BR Apartments Therapy-Driven Activities Program Beautifully Landscaped Courtyards Nature Trail Bistro Assistance with Medications Beauty Salon and Spa Life Enrichment Programs Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapies Healthcare Monitoring & Management

Our recent Open House was a big success and a lot of fun.

If you missed it and would like to take a tour, give us a call. We can’t wait to show off our beautiful new property.

24-Hour Emergency Response System Scheduled Chauffeured Transportation Nature Trail Fitness Center Restaurant Style Dining

Call Tammy Hutcheson for a personal tour today.

(850) 434-3232

www.SummerVista.com

3450 Wimbledon Drive Pensacola, Florida

Guest Stay Apartments For a complete list of benefits visit: SummerVista.com

ALF License Pending

BEST OF THE BAY WINNER 2015

Lifestyle Letter

Aislinn Kate Photography

Legends Among Us

W

hen I was young, my father absolutely loved Willie Nelson; my mom favored Barbara Mandrell; and my brother was more of a rock guy. He liked Kiss.

As for me, my idol was Olivia Newton John. I still have her “Let’s Get Physical” concert shirt. If you’re lucky, you might even catch me wearing it at a dinner party.

Legends are everywhere. They come from all walks of life and can inspire each of us in a multitude of ways.

One of my goals when I started this magazine was to spotlight current and former Pensacola residents who are positive reflections of our city, and this month we are proud to present our “Local Legends” issue—because legends connected to our area are everywhere.

As a Christian singer and music lover, I’m a Original concert shirt huge fan of Nashville resident and Gulf Breeze native Mike Weaver, the frontman for the contemporary-Christian band “Big Daddy Weave.” He and the band’s other members—which include his brother Jay, who lives in Navarre—are incredibly talented, and I consider Mike to be a legend.

Pensacola natives Michael Patterson and W. David Marx are also legends in two very different fields. The former is a big-city business icon, and the latter, a talented author who is garnering recognition by top national and international media.

Everyone should aim to leave a legacy, whether through work, community outreach or simply taking care of a friend or family member in need. Making a positive impact is a praiseworthy goal.

What is your role? What will you be remembered for?

We love hearing from our readers, and we can’t thank our advertisers enough for their support. Don’t forget to check out our website, PensacolaLifestylePubs.com, and please “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Sharmane Adams, Publisher Sharmane.Adams@LifestylePubs.com

MARCH 2016 publisher

Sharmane Adams | Sharmane.Adams@LifestylePubs.com editor

Sloane Stephens Cox | Sloane.Cox@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Rebecca Ross, Sean M.J. Smith, Bruce Partington, Peter Butler, M.D. contributing photographers

Aislinn Kate Photography, Barrett McClean Photography, David Molnar, Jim Scherer

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

| Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Sharmane Adams, Publisher Sharmane.Adams@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

PensacolaLifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER Big Daddy Weave PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID MOLNAR AND JIM SCHERER COVER DESIGN Tanya Hughes

4

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

JOIN US

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Pensacola Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Pensacola’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Pensacola Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

“I went to MyVeinScreening.com

D

E

R

O

A

IC

E 2015 R

E A WA R D

for a free, confidential, online vein evaluation by the region’s most experienced vascular specialists.”

S’

C

2015 WINNER

H

850.912.8249 2301 North Ninth Ave., Suite 100, Pensacola, FL 32503

March 2016

Departments

18

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

14

Local’s Choice

16

Local Limelight

28

Healthy Lifestyle

30

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

18 Big Daddy Weave Makes Big Impression

This former Gulf Breeze native and his band are contemporary-Christian celebrities.

20 Pensacola-Born Business Powerhouse

Meet the man ranked among the CEOs and owners of Facebook, Twitter and Google.

24 Author’s First Book Makes A-List

This former Pensacola resident unveils his page-turning book that’s turning heads.

16

20

24

Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana | Ohio | Oklahoma | Texas | Utah

Good Times

Launch Party Celebrates New Magazine's Success Pensacola Lifestyle launched its high-end magazine in high style at the upscale event venue the Palafox House in downtown

Pensacola in January. We thank our glamorous guests for coming to see how we plan to make a positive impact on Pensacola.

PHOTOGRAPHY AISLINN KATE PHOTOGRAPHY.

Curt Morse, Tom Owens and Pete Gilroy

Laura Boyles, An and Mayor Ashton Hayward, and Joseph Boyles

Cindy Fell, Mike Mangrum and Elmira Hayes

Kevin and Laura Russell, and Sharmane Adams

Aislinn Rehwinkel, Brandy Rebol, Marilyn Smith Tyler and Jill Teston, and Scott Sallis and Becky Chappel

Lori Davis and Jennifer Pate

Sean Smith and Sloane Cox

Paula and Jorge Pelaez, M.D.

Brian and Julie Robbins

LAW OFFICE OF

MARY ANN PATTI LLC Compassionate, Understanding and Committed Former Prosecutor • Licensed to practice since 1994

Proficient in all areas of family law Contested Divorces Child Custody/Support Enforcement Actions Paternity Modifications Adoptions Relocation

850.437.3700

8

•

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

2 0 0 5 W G A R D E N ST., P E NSACOL A

We are here to help guide you through the most difficult and challenging time.

Pierrettes Make Clown Suits Look Glamorous at Annual Ball

This all-female, non-parading krewe celebrated 60 years of Mardi Gras merriment at its annual ball while dancing to Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs in January at the Crowne Plaza Pensacola Grand Hotel. Founded in 1956, it's one of the oldest Mardi Gras groups in Pensacola. PHOTOGRAPHY BARRETT MCCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHY.

King Wes Reeder and Queen Stephanie Tilley

2016 Pierrettes Court

Jill Harper, Gaye Overholtz, and Laura Cole

Lisa and Rod Mitchell

Carolyn and Wes Reeder

George and Liz Biggs

“Modern proactive medicine to help you feel and look your best.”

• Education • Detoxification • Customized nutrition and supplementation • Relaxation techniques • Bio identical hormones when needed • State-of-the-art diagnostic testing

Jorge Peláez, M.D.

“With Dr. Peláez’s guidance, I’ve lost 20 pounds and have had no joint pain for more than a month and a half. It has been 10 years since I’ve felt this good.”

–– Sandy Palmer, patient

1004 Scenic Highway, Pensacola, FL 32503 • 850.436.4444 • www.floridahwi.com March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

9

Good Times

Mystic Maids Celebrate Mardi Gras Season at Annual Ball

Beverages, a band and ball gowns make the best of times! Mystic Maids, an all-female, non-parading Mardi Grad krewe, held its annual ball in January at the Pensacola Country Club. "Shaken, Not Stirred" was this year’s theme.

PHOTOGRAPHY BARRETT MCCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHY.

2016 Mystic Maids Board Members

Jennifer and Garen Dalton Steele, M.D.

King Mark and Queen Michelle Griffin

Burton and Andrea Chesterfield

Vicky and Ed Wonders

Shaner and Blair Crooke

Christian and Laura Savoie

PET HOSPITAL

CLINIC: 850.477.2901 HOURS: M-F 7-6

AND

Olive Branch Y O U R O T H E R FA M I LY D O C T O R

Providing Excellent Veterinary Care | 10

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

PLAY N STAY LUXURY BOARDING

BOARDING: 850.436.4806 HOURS S-S 7-6

OPEN EVERYDAY OF THE YEAR, INCLUDING HOLIDAYS

OWNED AND OPERATED BY

DR. MARK SPRAYBERRY

4220 N Davis Hwy | www.olivebranchpethospital.com

Around Town

AROUND Smile TOWN

Love your

850.479.2525 | www.emeraldcoastsmiles.com 3927 Creighton Road Pensacola, Florida 32504

George Rees, M.D., FACS

Ming Zhang, M.D.

BAPTIST MEDICAL GROUP WELCOMES GENERAL SURGEONS Two board-certified general surgeons joined Baptist Medical Group’s multispecialty physician network and are welcoming new patients at Baptist Towers, 1717 North E St., Suite 205, in Pensacola.

Both physicians offer comprehensive surgical services, working with patients to develop individualized care plans. George Rees, M.D., FACS, earned his medical degree and completed his residency at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans. Ming Zhang, M.D., is a board-certified general surgeon who earned his medical degree at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, North Carolina. He completed his residency at West Virginia University School of Medicine in Morgantown, West Virginia. Details: 850.434.1863 or BaptistMedicalGroup.org.

Heidi GretHer Heidi GretHer Hairstylist/Colorist Hairstylist/Colorist

(850) 393-4939 (850)393-4939 (850)393-4939 Level Salon the the NextNext Level Salon 700 Bayfront Parkway 700 Bayfront Parkway 12

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

MIX UP YOUR MENU Step away from those same old meals! Head to one of the new eateries in town.

• Union Public House is a Southern-style gastropub that serves upscale cocktails and innovative pub food in a relaxed atmosphere.

It’s located at 309 S. Reus St. Details: 850.607.6320.

• Boneheads is a casual seafood restaurant with a fire-grilled style. There are many non-seafood options, including salads, wings, burgers, chicken sandwiches and chicken tacos. The restaurant offers five different types of signature sauces made from Piri Piri, a small pepper. Sauces range from heat-free to extremely spicy. It’s located at 10015 N. Davis Hwy., Ste. 600.

Details: 850.477.4002.

• LongHorn Steakhouse and BJ’s Brew House are two additional unfussy options. Neither eatery was open at press time.

But the steakhouse is expected to open in February, and both venues will be located by Cordova Mall. At LongHorn, savory starters include sweet chili calamari, and non-steak options include parmesan-crusted chicken and baby-back ribs. Details: LongHornSteakhouse.com. BJ’s Brew House is known for its deep-dish, Chicago-style pizza with a Southern California twist.

BJ’s has about 20 restaurants in Florida, but the closest one to Pensacola is in Slidell, Louisiana. Details: BJsRestaurants.com.

FOOD TRUCKS FARE Hungry for a fresh take on food that’s fast? Check out what’s cooking at the mobile food vendors in the City Hall parking lot. They serve breakfast and lunch on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in February. The March schedule had not yet been posted at press time. The food trucks are located in the back corner of the lot at the intersection of Spring and Main streets. Schedules, days and times change monthly. Details: CityOfPensacola.com or “Food Trucks at City Hall” Facebook page.

CHEERS TO A CHIC NEW BREWERY Hop over to a new upscale microbrewery for some top-ofthe-line hops. Gulf Coast Brewery features plenty of locally brewed beers, an expansive wine selection, a wine lounge, and a cigar room with television and board games. A fun feature includes individually rented humidor lockers, where guests can store cigars purchased from the venue’s cigar shop. The brewery is located at 500 E. Heinberg. Details: 850.696.2335 and GulfCoastBrewery.net.

NEW CONSTRUCTION WORTH NOTING When you’re driving around Pensacola, check out some new additions to our city. Here’s a list of points of interest, ranging from recently completed to still under construction: a Holiday Inn Express on Main Street, a 53,000-square-foot YMCA at the corner of Intendencia and Tarragona streets, a 33,000-squarefoot Institute for Human and Machine Cognition facility on East Romana Street, a CVS pharmacy at the former Angus Restaurant on Scenic Highway, a five-story condominium building on South

Local, Pensacola based, family owned and operated business designed to deliver tools employers and employees need to be successful

Payroll Services Workers Compensation Coverage/Risk Management Human Resources

Palafox Street, and a three-story office/residential building northeast of Maritime Park.

(850) 434-6708 | 2101 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola www.allstaffpayrollservices.com March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

13

Local’s Choice

Design Picks WHAT’S ON THE HAUTE LIST FOR HOME DECOR? INTERIOR DESIGNER BARCLAY MUTZ, OWNER OF GRAY HORSE INTERIORS IN PENSACOLA, SHARES HER FAVORITE FURNISHINGS. ARTICLE SLOANE STEPHENS COX

1. AN ANTIQUE PERSIAN CARPET.

2. A PIECE OF ACRYLIC FURNITURE.

“It’s the foundation upon which a beautiful room is built. The artistry and workmanship woven into the threads of an old carpet speaks

“French designer Phillipe Starck started it all with his ‘ghost’ chair. It adds luminosity and an airy, modern feel to a room. Every home needs a ghost!”

volumes. It’s a timeless, beautiful

3. AN HEIRLOOM PIECE.

piece of art that will only increase

“Virtually everyone has a piece of furniture

in value over time.”

that belonged to his or her parents, grandparents or great-grandparents. Living with an

4. AN ORIGINAL CANVAS OF CONTEMPORARY ART.

old family piece gives us a sense of comfort and tradition that can’t be bought in stores.”

5. SOMETHING SLIPCOVERED WHITE.

“White lightens a space, goes with every color palette and always bleaches out.”

6. UNIQUE LIGHTING.

“Lighting is the perfect way to inject your personal style into a home. Considered the ‘jewelry’ of a room, it’s the finishing touch

that adorns a space.”

GRAY HORSE INTERIORS

1306 E. Cervantes St. Details: 850.346.6236.

7. SOMETHING FROM THE OUTDOORS.

“A piece of driftwood that you found, a spray of dried sea sponge, or an arrangement of berries you picked on your walk—the outdoors inspires us all. Bring it inside!”

9. LINEN DRAPERY PANELS.

“Light and airy fabrics on either side of the windows soften a room and create a cozy feel while still letting the light in.”

8. AN ANIMAL PRINT OR SKIN.

“We love critters!”

14

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

10. FAMILY PHOTOS.

“They’re what home is about!”

WE LOVE IT WHEN A PLAN COMES TOGETHER. Wealth management is more than just managing your investment portfolio. It’s an alignment of personal, emotional and financial decisions that allow you to take care of the important things in life - like family, school, weddings, community, your home, travel and other things you love.

Our comprehensive approach for private clients blends investment management, tax, estate and financial planning services. And yes, we do love it when your plans are realized.

Let’s thrive together.

PERSONAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT www.WAasset.com l 800.759.7857

FIORE f lowers • gardens • events

824 E Belmont St (Corner 9th Ave) | Pensacola, FL 32501 850-542-7548 Open Tue-Sat 10a-5p www.toadhallantiques.com European Painted Furniture • Unique Gifts • Jewelry Apparel • Home Accessories • Local Art

Free Parking 850.469.1930 15 W Main Pensacola, FL 32502 ciaobella@fioreofpensacola.com www.fioreofpensacola.com March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

15

Local Limelight

Cool Cocktails Summon Spring

W

ARTICLE SEAN M.J. SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY AISLINN KATE PHOTOGRAPHY

the winter blues.

inter hibernation is over. It’s beach-vacation time!

Breathe in the view of the Gulf of

Mexico, sink into a beach lounger and listen to the gentle hiss of Gulf breakers percolating through crystal white sand.

You need one more thing to wipe out Ah, there it is.

A waft of brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg tickle your nostrils as you ease the glass to your quivering lips. It’s a forgotten flavor. For months, those lips were numbed by hot chocolate and dry red wine.

This mixological escape is called the Pain Killer, and it’s available at the Casino Beach Bar & Grille—only sandy steps away from the Pensacola Gulf Pier.

Since opening its awnings in 2014, this true-beachfront bar and restaurant has strived to make every day a vacation.

Slide in and out of the shoreline and be served from beach loungers, or dine beachfront in shaded deck areas. Chef Shane Bourke puts a lot of work into its fare— which, belying the venue’s casual name, includes decadent duck empanadas, perfectly grilled Gulf shrimp and extravagant blackened grouper sandwiches.

Every bit of that attention to detail and to craft is also poured into the cocktail specialties. Mixologists prepare freshly squeezed lime, orange and grapefruit juice and make their own simple syrup.

Where were we?

Ah, yes. The Pain Killer.

Sanctioned by the Hemingway estate, Papa’s Pilar Dark Rum takes after the

Consisting of an ounce of Sailor Jerry Rum and

rugged adventurer of its namesake, Ernest

an ounce of Castillo Rum, this cocktail is shaken

“Papa” Hemingway. “The Pilar” was the

up with one ounce of freshly squeezed orange

name of his beloved fishing boat. This

juice, three ounces of pineapple juice and a sprin-

rum has a well-traveled taste, a blend of

kle of cream of coconut. Then it’s topped with Pa-

Caribbean and Central American rums

pa’s Pilar Dark Rum and freshly ground nutmeg.

that are aged in former bourbon-and-port wine barrels and then finished in Spanish sherry casks. It’s blended in Kentucky.

Winter? What winter?

You can mix it yourself at home, but who would want to miss this view?

16

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

CBB Margarita This salty-sweet concoction isn’t just any margarita: It contains a special strain of tequila that Maestro Dobel developed especially for Casino Beach Bar & Grille.

Chef Bourke hand-picked the barrels.

1 1/2 oz. Maestro Dobel tequila ¾ oz. freshly squeezed lime juice ¾ oz. agave nectar and floated with Grand Marnier

CBB COOLER It’s sweet. No it’s tart. No it’s sweet-tart, Sweetheart.

CBB MULE

This little killer cooler won an award at

The nouveaux classic from Russia with a

the Taste of Gulf Breeze.

splash of beach life

1 1/2 oz. Tuaca liqueur (this adds hints

1 1/2 oz. Stolichnaya vodka

of vanilla and orange)

1/2 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice

¾ oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice

Ginger beer

½ oz. agave syrup ½ oz. cranberry juice

CASINO BEACH BAR & GRILLE

41 Fort Pickens Rd. 850.932.6313

41 Fort Pickens Road (foot of the Gulf Pier)

Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

850.932.6313

CASINOBEACHBAR.COM March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

17

Big Daddy Weave: HIP MUSIC WITH A HIGHER PURPOSE ARTICLE SLOANE STEPHENS COX | PHOTOGRAPHY JIM SCHERER AND DAVID MOLNAR

Band with local link takes center stage in national contemporary Christian arena

I

n the kingdom of contemporary pop, many “censored” songs merit R-ratings. But some musicians choose the lyrical high road—and that path has pointed to the top of the contemporary Christian charts for one band with Gulf Breeze ties.

At first listen, the soft twang and synthesis of saxophone, keyboard and guitars might drum up a sound too hip to reflect anything other than secular sentiments. But crank up those soft-rock songs with adult-alternative vibes, and listen out for something rather unusual: a Christian message.

18

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

The band is Big Daddy Weave, and two of its members—frontman Mike and his brother, Jay, who plays bass and sings vocals—spent the bulk of their childhoods in Gulf Breeze. Their latest album, “Beautiful Offerings,” features a song that is currently No. 1 on multiple Christian music radio charts, their fifth consecutive track to reach that spot.

The band is among the top 10 most-played contemporary Christian groups of the past decade—nothing to scoff at. Christian music generated more than 17 million album sales in the United States in 2014.

r)

J

m

s)

voc

als)

Je

r, v

Jo e

Shirk

mon ( guita

( s a xo ph

Re d

on

my

e,

e

, ys

re

k

Br i a n B e i

hl (

dr

u

M

)

i ke

al s

We

er (bass , voc

aver (lead voc

av We

al s

,

i ta

ay

oc

al

s)

The main difference between contemporary Christian and secular popular music, Mike Weaver says, lies in the lyrics, not in the sound. Fans of the former can shun sex and drugs while still enjoying their rock and roll— or whatever musical subset they prefer. Styles span the spectrum, from hip-hop to heavy metal.

He says the Christian subsets have one thing in common: They aim to fill your ears—and your soul.

“The songs are just a big foam finger pointing to Jesus—just a sign saying, this is where we found hope,” he says.

Weaver was a Pensacola Junior College (now called Pensacola State College) student when his pastor at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Midway encouraged him to get a college degree.

“He was worried I was spending too much time at church,” he says with a laugh.

Because of his pastor’s gentle nudge, for which Weaver is grateful, he earned a voice scholarship to the University of Mobile. There, he and his brother met the other band members and formed the band 17 years ago.

Weaver says he has always preferred faith-based music because of its message. But, during college, he was introduced to the music of Dave Matthews, Bonnie Rait, Sting and Bruce Hornsby, and he admits to finding inspiration in their styles.

“I like artists who blend jazz and blues but with pop sensibility, and I’m always a sucker for a hook,” he says.

Before appreciating mellow music, Christian heavy metal was his go-to choice for listening.

“I wanted to be a plus-sized Van Halen when I grew up,” he laughs.

As a college student in Mobile, he delved deeper into song writing. Some of his latest lyrics reflect personal struggles, including his ongoing battle with self-loathing.

“If you’re hurting, feel empty, there’s hope,” he says. “Did you mess it up every day for a long time?

Hey, guess what? Me, too! But it’s not over for you.

There’s not a second chance, there is a third chance and a fifth chance and a 175,000th chance in the Lord because His mercy is new every day.”

Touring can be trickier now than it was in college since the band members have wives and families, he says. But touring also has its perks: Both audiences and band members are family-oriented, so they can relate to each other. That drives audience members back, Weaver says, and the fan base keeps growing.

“After 17 years, we just can’t believe we still get to do this. We feel like, at any moment, they’re going to tell us to get a real job. But we keep getting to do this!”

gu

BIO Big Daddy Weave is on a coast-to-coast, 60-city tour promoting its recently released album, “Beautiful Offerings.” The album’s first single, “My Story,” was co-written by lead singer Mike Weaver and Grammy-nominated songwriter Jason Ingram.

The band won the coveted Christian-band award, the Dove Award, for Album of the Year, in 2010. The band has won multiple Dove nominations and other accolades, including many No. 1 hits on various Christian charts.

Band members are Weaver, who also plays guitar; his brother Jay, bass and vocals; Jeremy Redmon, guitar and vocals; Joe Shirk, saxophone and keyboards; and Brian Beihl, drums.

After the Weavers’ parents’ house in Gulf Breeze was destroyed during Hurricane Ivan, Mike moved to Nashville, where he lives with his wife and children.

Jay resides in Navarre, and their parents still live in Gulf Breeze.

Catch live local bands playing Big Daddy Weave covers at various local churches, including Harvest Church at the Rex in downtown Pensacola and at First United Methodist Church of Pensacola.

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

19

Michael Patterson

“Rock Star on Wall Street” Pensacola Native Enjoying Bigtime Business Success

ARTICLE SLOANE STEPHENS COX

was in Pensacola, working on the Congressional campaign of Republican Lois Benson, who is currently an Emerald Coast Utilities Authority board member.

“He nonchalantly said he made the list and then put the phone back in his pocket,” Merrill says with a laugh. “He’s such a humble person that you’d never know how truly accomplished he is.”

In 2007, Patterson cofounded the credit-investment firm Highbridge Principal Strategies. Initially, it was a subsidiary of JPMorgan Chase & Co., a multinational banking and financial-services holding company based in New York City. Highbridge invests in private companies, often taking months to broker deals that satisfy both parties. The firm employs 210 people. Patterson spends much time managing and growing Highbridge’s London office, the center of the firm's European market.

When talking about his wife, children, military service and even the Gulf of Mexico—with the most important being his wife and children—he sounds somewhat misty eyed. That display of emotion may not seem like that of a stereotypical partner of a leading firm, but his childhood friends describe him as one of those rare and incredibly successful individuals who is also modest and caring.

a

20

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

ab

usin

e ssman

M

ns

e rr

Pe

ichael Patterson’s Pensacola peers remember him as a sociable, tennis-racket-swinging scholar whose childhood dream was to become President of the United States of America. No one doubted he could achieve that— or any other lofty goal.

Focused and seemingly fearless, the Pensacola native built a résumé that any presidential candidate would covet. He earned degrees from Pensacola High School’s International Baccalaureate Program, Harvard University and Stanford University. During his tenure in the United States Navy, he even helped plan the military’s first drone-assisted strikes.

No, the New York City resident’s name won’t appear on the 2016 presidential ballot.

But he is a frontrunner in another powerful—and much more profitable—arena: the international world of business.

Patterson is one of five partners at a credit-investment firm that controls $26 billion in assets. Fortune magazine ranks him among the biggest names in business in its 2014 “40 Under 40” list, which also includes CEOs and founders of Uber, Facebook, Yahoo, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Pinterest, and even the Prime Minister of Italy.

Pensacola businessman Collier Merrill was with Patterson in New York City when Patterson received the email announcing that prestigious spot in Fortune. The two co became friends in 1994, when Patterson l

i ll

M

ll Co

ier

“He has been a rock star on Wall Street for years, but he oozes humility,” says Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward.

PHOTOGRAPHY AISLINN KATE PHOTOGRAPHY

ns

ard

ac

ola

yw

Pe

Hayward grew up with Patterson’s three older first cousins. He and Patterson still get together when Hayward visits New York City. Once, after a quick phone call from Hayward—and despite Patterson’s undoubtedly packed schedule—Patterson agreed to meet with one of Hayward’s interns, now an undergraduate student at Harvard, who was visiting New York City.

M ay o

r A s h to

nH

a

“Although he travels the globe putting together megadeals, he’s never too busy to return a phone call or to help someone,” Hayward says.

His father, P. Michael Patterson, is a partner at Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon and served as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida from 1993 to 2001. His stepmother, Anne, is the assistant state attorney and the lead prosecutor at the Gulf Coast Kid’s House.

When in town, the younger Patterson enjoys staying at the Lee House on Bayfront Parkway and says he is happy to witness what he calls the renaissance of downtown.

He, his wife Nina and their three children—all younger than 5 years of age—spend most weekends in her hometown of Greenwich, Connecticut. During the summer, he CONTINUED > commutes to New York City.

Patterson credits his experience in the Navy for his leadership skills and claims his military service is one of his greatest accomplishments, ranking just below family and business.

“I worked very hard, understood how little I knew, and was taught how to be a leader,” he says.

His Navy roots run deeper than merely growing up in a military area. Both his grandfathers were flight surgeons in the Navy.

After serving in World War II, they made Pensacola home.

“He embodies what’s great about Pensacola,” One key to success is having strong management skills, he says Patterson’s longtime friend Pensacola Photo taken the night Patterson learned says: “In the field of finance, Mayor Ashton Hayward. “He grew up attending he made Fortune’s list of the most influfirms are often run by those with ential young business people. Patterson, great skills, the best returns. local schools and has gone on to do great far left; Collier Merrill, middle; Kate Sadler, right of Merrill; and Sadler’s friends.

These don’t necessarily create things. He’s proof that, if you’re focused and Sadler is Merrill’s cousin. the best managers of people.”

He admits to an occasional determined, you can accomplish anything in hometown hankering. He still life, including competing at the highest level in visits Pensacola and expresses the world of finance.” gratitude for the privilege of growing up here.

What does he miss most about home?

“Family,” he says, without hesitation.

Spending time with his large extended family—including cousins, aunts and uncles—instilled in him a sense of place and security, he says. His parents and stepmother still live here. His mother, Alice Sherman Patterson, is a retired high school English teacher and is a longtime Ashley Pennewell, far left; Michael Patterson, directly right of Pennewell; Kristin singer in the Christ Episcopal Church choir.

Cronemeyer Henson, far right, bottom row; and their friends from various Pensacola Bay Area high schools in 1991

Bio

BIO Michael Patterson, 41, was born and raised in Pensacola.

with the Admiral James L. Holloway Jr. Award, given an-

He was the valedictorian at Episcopal Day School in 1989,

nually to the nation's most outstanding NROTC midship-

and he earned a diploma from Pensacola High School’s

man. He served in the United States Navy from 1997 to

International Baccalaureate Program in 1993. He received

2001, achieving the rank of lieutenant. During that time, he

a Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship,

made three Gulf tours and assisted in planning the mili-

which financed his tuition at Harvard University, where

tary’s first drone-enabled strikes. Next, he earned a Mas-

he played on the tennis team. He graduated with a Bach-

ter of Business Administration at Stanford University and

elor of Arts in Applied Mathematics and was presented

then began working in private equity at Goldman Sachs.

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

21

ROCK STAR ON WALL STREET (CON TI N U ED)

Yearbook photo of Patterson from 1991, when he was a sophomore in the International Baccalaureate Program at Pensacola High School

“Michael was always really nice,” says Pensacola native Ashley Pennewell, who was two grades ahead of Patterson in the International Baccalaureate Program at Pensacola High School. Pennewell is a mental-health counselor in private practice in Pensacola. “Even back then, he was mature, comfortable in his own skin, and funny, too. Everyone knew how smart he was.”

When asked about future plans, he says he’s happy spending a Saturday afternoon at the American Museum of Natural History with his wife and children. One of his goals is to continue growing his business in the global market.

Kristin Cronemeyer Henson, a Pensacola native who lives in Seattle, Washington, expresses the prevailing sentiment among his childhood friends: “We always used to say he’d be President one day. In fact, get going Michael! We could use you!”

Hayward agrees.

“He’d make a heck of a candidate if he ever did decide to run,” he says. “I’d vote for him.”

Another former high school peer, Abbie Sanders of Nashville, adds the following: "No matter what road he chooses,” even if he continues on his current path, “he will walk it well with thoughtfulness, a healthy dose of humility, the Gulf breeze at his back, and some Spanish moss in his shoes.”

Ensign Michael Davis Patterson receives his U.S. Navy commission, presented by his late maternal grandfather, Roger Davis Sherman, M.D., Capt. USNR (Ret.), in 1997.

DECORATIVE CONCRETE New Concrete - Colored Concrete - Stamped Concrete Splatter Texture - Reflector Floors - Acid Stains Industrial Epoxy Flooring - Sealers - Thin Stamp Overlays

Brian Robbins, Owner 850.696.2838 - 850.304.5383 - EliteCreteGulfCoast.com 22

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

3 YEARS IN A ROW

GHV1.qxd:Layout 1 11/29/15 9:58 PM Page 1

The Eclipse MicroPen is a new innovation in aesthetic medicine for treating the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation and stretch marks.

Microneedling is something that is good for all skin types with little to no down time!

3 Full face Treatments + 1 Regenica Day Repair for $600 ($1200 value) Offer good through March

Featured on the show Doctors

850.432.6772 • 20 N Tarragona, Pensacola, FL • swmedspa.com

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

23

AUTHOR ACCOLADES ARTICLE REBECCA ROSS

W. David Marx

P

W. David Marx's first book was released in December 2015.

24

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

erfectly worn blue jeans. Crisp button-downs.

Tweed jackets.

As American as apple pie, iconic menswear found a fervent following in an unexpected place: Japan. A Tokyo author with Pensacola ties unravels this fascinating tale of (un)common threads in Ametora: How Japan Saved American Style.

This book is W. David Marx’s first; yet, immediately after its December 2015 release, international critics from numerous prestigious publications—including The Japan Times, Vogue, The Boston Globe and People—began praising his work and endorsing it as a “must-read.”

B.J. Novak of The Wall Street Journal lauded it as one of the best books of the year.

“It’s a fascinating window into how fashion, culture and history intersect; you end up learning about several things at once,” he says.

And Publishers Weekly describes it as a “wholly intriguing study of the American influence on menswear in Japan.”

Marx, who holds degrees from Harvard University and from Keio University, spent four years researching and writing the tome, which covers 150 years of cross-cultural fashion.

It was a back-of-the-rack bit of history that begged an airing.

“What excited me was the untold-story aspect,” Marx says. “No one had really explored how American men’s fashion had become so deeply rooted in Japanese society.”

Marx himself has been rooted in Tokyo since 2003.

His interest in Japan, though, can be traced to his youth.

“I remember my parents bringing back cool toys from a trip there,” Marx recalls.

But he credits a high school trip to Though fashions have changed from Hagiwara (now Gero) with launching his decade to decade—for example, from rocklove for Japanese linguistics. Three weeks n-roll to hip-hop—Japan still sports plenty after returning home, the International of prep. Ametora explores if, perhaps, Japan Baccalaureate Program student was ready has perfected fashion. to ditch his French and German classes.

Japanese fashion houses, such as “In comparison to those languages, Uniqlo and Comme des Garçons, offer Japanese was easy to learn,” he says, laughhigh-end jeans, cashmere sweaters and ing. “I decided to study it in college, even penny loafers. Some might argue that though everyone was pushing Chinese Japanese designers are producing—and language at the time.” even exporting—higher-quality verThe rigorously researched exploration sions of classic Americana than the rifles through decades of American/ United States is.

Japanese fashions, from East Coast Ivy to Ametora also covers the rise in popularavant-garde street style. But one man— ity of Japanese denim. Aficionados seek Kensuke Ishizud, the intrepid Japanese out the selvage (fabric with a distinctive designer—inspired Marx to write Ametora edge woven on machines no longer com(Japanese slang for “American traditional.”) monly used by American labels) and raw Marx’s book begins with the fall of stan(untreated) denim, especially in jeans.

About five years ago, Marx modeled for a Japanese magazine that’s similar to GQ. dard, austere Japanese clothing and with Marx says this ongoing repackaging the rise of Ishizu’s preppy VAN JACKET label in the early 1960s. of American classics has actually helped preserve them.

“Ishizu brought American style to Japan,” Marx explains. “A lot “Certainly, now there are some items you can more easily obtain of people assume that America rebuilt Japan in its own image after in Japan than in America,” he says. “It’s a good thing they’re keeping World War II. But it wasn’t until years later—when VAN introduced them in circulation. It’s keeping these iconic looks alive.”

Ivy League fashion, or ‘aibii’—that young men began to embrace it.”

But is it cultural appreciation or appropriation?

Soon, khakis, oxford button-downs, navy blazers and duffel coats— Marx balks at the latter notion. all idealized American collegiate wear—became must-haves for young “There’s a negative connotation there,” he says. “An example of the men. The VAN label was so coveted that some financially challenged, political side of appropriation is European designers using Native yet enterprising, youth began affixing VAN stickers to used rice bags. American motifs. It’s a majority appropriating a minority’s culture.”

Anything to fit in, fashionably.

But, compared to America, Japan is a minority culture, and Americans “It's definitely a men’s story,” Marx notes. “Usually, the focus of have come to expect other countries to adopt American styles, he says. fashion is on women and has European and French influences. But “During the Cold War, everyone knew that Russians desperately American styles transformed what Japanese men wore and what they wanted American blue jeans, Marx recalls. “And that was a matter are wearing today.” of national pride.”

CONTINUED >

W W W.GR E AT SOU T HE R N R E STAU R AN T S . COM March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

25

AUTHOR ACCOLADES (CON TI N UED)

Marx’s book is a matter of Pensacola pride.

He visits family here regularly, still marveling at the local availability of Japanese curry sauce and at how things have changed. So, on occasion, there’s a chance to hug his neck, pat his back and even strike up a conversation about Ametora.

Marx is happy that the years of hard work he spent tackling an uncommon subject have been well received.

“It’s rare in this age to find something that hasn’t been written about extensively,” he notes. “Every discovery and every new piece of trivia fascinated me. I’m glad other people are fascinated, too.”

BIO W. David Marx has written numerous articles about music, fashion and culture for GQ, Harper’s, The Fader, Nylon, The New Yorker and various other

APRIL 19 PENSACOLA BAY CENTER

ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM RODIZIO GRILL BOX OFFICE CHARGE BY PHONE AT 800-745-3000

publications. Ametora is his first book.

He is a translator, a cultural observer and even a song writer. In addition to being creative, he was always a strong student in math and science, says his mother, Sally Marx. She lives in Pensacola with her husband, Morris. David graduated from Creative Learning Academy in 1993 and then received a diploma from Pensacola High School’s International Baccalaureate Program in 1997. He graduated from Harvard University with a bachelor’s degree in East Asian Studies. After that, he earned a master’s degree in business and com-

JAMESTAYLOR.COM FACEBOOK.COM/JAMESTAYLOR

merce from Keio University. He was about 10 years old in 1988, when his family moved to Pensacola from Mississippi so that his father could become the University of West Florida’s third president. Morris retired in 2002 and is now a research senior research scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition in Pensacola. David is married and lives in Tokyo with his wife, Utako, and their two children—Rowe, 7, and Toki Anna, 5.

26

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

The Pure Barre technique is low-impact, protecting your joints. In just 55 minutes you will achieve a full body workout concentrating on the hips, thighs, seat, abdominals and arms.

A stretching section follows Each strength section of the Workout in order to create long lean muscles without bulk. The technique works to defy gravity by tapering everything in and lifting.

[

]

FIRST CLASS ONLY $5

New client special: 1 month of unlimited classes for $99.

After first month, upon renewal, $99 Will be refunded.

(850) 912-4470 I PUREBARRE.COM/FL-PENSACOLA 6 S PALAFOX STREET PENSACOLA, FLORIDA 32502

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

27

Healthy Lifestyle

Peter Butler, M.D. DINNER, DRINKS AND DOC TALK

ARTICLE PETER BUTLER, M.D.

te

Bu

r

e plastic surgeons often hold what I call “cocktail-party con-

Pe

W

sultations.” That’s the term I use to describe a common occur-

rence at dinner parties or at other social events, when people who are

tl e

r, M

.D .

inquisitive—and often misinformed—about surgical procedures and about other cosmetic services approach us to ask questions. These

decade-younger version of yourself. Facelifts have come a long way.

spontaneous Q&A sessions allow us to inform them about what we

The incisions are smaller, and the recovery time is shorter than you

do and even to lessen their fears in an informal setting.

might think. Depending on the patient, some facelifts can be done

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and

as an in-office procedure.

QUESTION: I’ve thought about getting a breast augmentation,

answers—no “liquid courage” required.

QUESTION: I wasn’t able to stick to my New Year’s resolution to hit

the gym. Can’t I just suck out the fat with liposuction?

but I don’t want to look like those girls at the beach who seem to have beach balls in their bikini tops.

ANSWER: While liposuction is a great way to remove unwanted fat

ANSWER: When it comes to breast augmentation, by far the most

in stubborn areas, it doesn’t prevent you from gaining weight, and

common request is to look natural. Patients are usually young women

it isn’t a weight-loss tool. Think of liposuction as a way to sculpt the

with very small breasts but who want to have proportional bodies, or

body into a more pleasing shape. By removing stubborn fat depos-

they are mothers who want to regain the breast volume they lost after

its, such as love handles and “saddle bags,” a plastic surgeon can

pregnancy. With the newest 3D imaging, the patient is in complete

contour the body. Results are long lasting, but you

control of her size and is able to see the results

need to maintain a stable weight after the surgery.

UPCOMING EVENT AT GULF

before surgery. Most surgeons recommend using

The good news is that the visible improvements

COAST PLASTIC SURGERY

cohesive gel implants, which provide an extremely

motivate most people to eat well and to hit the

Enjoy a fun, informal and in-

natural look and feel and which are very safe.

gym. One word of caution: Beware of nonsurgical

formative

treatments that claim to “melt” fat. Most patients

breasts, your body and looking

find that they are left with little or no improvement,

your best for beach season.

and the only thing looking slim is their wallets!

The free event is on April 7, and

discussion

about

The best way to get your questions answered?

Don’t take surgical advice from just anyone you talk to at a cocktail party!

Seek out a well qualified plastic surgeon—prefer-

I’m afraid to get a facelift

it features Jocelyn Leveque,

because I don’t want to look like Joan Rivers

M.D.; Peter Butler, M.D.; and

or Burt Reynolds.

Ben Brown, M.D. Guests will

Peter Butler, M.D., is the cofounder of Gulf Coast Plas-

QUESTION:

ably by scheduling a private consultation with one.

ANSWER: This is the most common mis-

be treated to refreshments,

tic Surgery. He is certified by the American Board of

conception we encounter. The reason some

door prizes and valuable gifts.

Plastic Surgery and by the National Board of Medical

celebrities look too tight is not that they have

Seating is limited. Reserva-

Examiners. Also, he is a member of the American Soci-

had a bad facelift but that they have had too

tions: 850.476.3223, ext. 121, and

ety of Plastic Surgeons and of the Southeastern Society

many facelifts. A well-done facelift should look

GulfCoastPlasticSurgery.com.

of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. He has been

very natural. You’ll look like yourself—but like a 28

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

practicing plastic surgery for more than 15 years.

BAPTIST and MAYO CLINIC T H E B E ST. TO G E T H E R .

Baptist Health Care is more than just a health care system. As a locally-owned member of this community, our top priority is the health and well-being of those we serve. As a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, we’re bringing even more innovative health care to our community. This means better care for you and the ones you love, through access to the best medicine in the world, right here at home.

Visit us online or call to learn more.

850.434.4080

e B A P T I S T H E A LT H C A R E . O R G / M AY O

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

29

Lifestyle Calendar

March MARCH 1 - 15 HISTORIC PENSACOLA TROLLEY TOUR PENSACOLA VISITOR CENTER Take a narrated tour of historic downtown. During the 50-minute ride, passengers will hear about Pensacola’s first settlement in 1559 and its permanent colonization in 1698. Tours are 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays. The trolley departs from the Pensacola Visitor's Center, and tours are limited to 36 passengers. Details and reservations: 850.941.2876.

MARCH 12 MCGUIRE'S 5K PREDICTION RUN MCGUIRE'S IRISH PUB This is the nation's largest prediction run. Awards go to the fastest as well as to the most accurate in predicting completion time. McGuire's signature bean soup, Irish Wakes, home-brewed beer and authentic Irish tunes are available at the post-run party. Starts at 9 a.m. Details: 850.433.6789 and McGuiresIrishPub.com.

MARCH 5

MARCH 12 & 13 GULF BREEZE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

BAYOU HILLS RUN

GULF BREEZE HIGH SCHOOL PARKING LOT

BAYVIEW PARK

Celebrate the Arts juried fine arts and crafts festival

Fun-seeking families and serious runners can take to the streets

This two-day family festival brings quality national, regional and local

during this run, which offers great views and challenging courses.

artists to Gulf Breeze. It features more than 140 artists, music, enter-

This event in East Hill includes a 10K, 5K and a one-mile kid’s run.

tainment and a wide variety of food vendors. 9 to 5 p.m. Saturday, and

Starts at 7:30 a.m. Details: 850.432.1768.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Details: 850.572.4292.

MARCH 9

MARCH 18 & 19

YESTERDAY—TRIBUTE TO

SMOKIN' IN THE SQUARE BBQ

THE BEATLES

COOK-OFF

VINYL MUSIC HALL

SEVILLE SQUARE

Enjoy the iconic English

Professional barbecue teams from

rock band’s tunes, which

around the nation will gather to

are performed by a tribute

compete at the first barbecue con-

band that tours internation-

test locally sanctioned by the Kan-

ally. Starts at 7 p.m. Tick-

sas City Barbecue Society. Also,

ets are $15 to $20. All ages

local barbecue enthusiasts will be

are welcomed. Attendees

competing for prize money. The

younger than 16 years of

family-friendly event features food

age must be accompanied

and entertainment. Noon to 9 p.m.

by a ticketed adult guardian.

Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Satur-

Details: 850.607.6758 and

day. Details: 850.516.2622.

VinylMusicHall.com.

30

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

31

business directory ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

Olive Branch Pet Hospital (850) 477-2901 olivebranchpethospital.com

Aislinn Kate Photography (850) 912-4888 aislinnkatephotography.com

AUTOMOTIVE 850.912.8683 | 128 Palafox Place | Pensacola, FL www.UrbanObjects.net | www.facebook.com/urbanobjectspensacola

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

IN A CHILDS LIFE

Kevin Russell Builders (850) 466-5946 kevinrussellhomes.com

Sandy Sansing BMW (850) 477-1855 sandysansingbmw.com

Superior Granite (850) 941-0270 superiorgranite.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Duh (850) 439-0640 duhpensacola.com

Pensacola Bay Center (850) 432-0800 pensacolabaycenter.com

FAITH

SPONSOR OF

MISSIONS.ME/LIFESTYLEPUBLICATIONS

32

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

Dee McDavid Interiors (850) 470-0001 deemcdavid.com

Gray Horse Interiors (850) 346-6236 grayhorseinteriorsnwfl.com

First United Methodist Church of Pensacola (850) 432-1434 fumcpensacola.com

Urban Objects (850) 912-8683 urbanobjects.net

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Mary Ann Patti, LLC (850) 437-3700

Bluetique (850) 696-1264 bluetiquepensacola.com

IS A PROUD

Elite Crete of the Gulf Coast (850) 696-2838 elitecretegulfcoast.com

Astro Lincoln (850) 478-8531 astrolincoln.net

Emerald Coast Smiles

by Design (850) 479-2525 emeraldcoastsmiles.com SUPPORT OUR MISSION TO

Pure Barre - Pensacola (850) 912-4470 purebarre.com/fl-pensacola

Toad Hall (850) 542-7548 toadhallantiques.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Warren Averett (850) 435-7400 warrenaverett.com

LEGAL SERVICES MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Baptist Health Care (850) 434-4080 ebaptisthealthcare.org/mayo Coastal Vein Institute (850) 912-8249 coastalveininstitute.com

Florida Health & Wellness Institute (850) 436-4444 floridahwi.com Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery (850) 476-3223 gulfcoastplasticsurgery.com

OTHER

All Staff Payroll (850) 434-6708 allstaffpayrollservices.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Casino Beach Bar and Grill (850) 932-6313 casinobeachbar.com

Great Southern Restaurants (850) 470-0003 greatsouthernrestaurants.com

SALONS & SPAS

Heidi Grether, Hairstylist/ Colorist (850) 393-4939 heidigretherhairstylist-colorist.com Still Waters Day & Medical Spa (850) 432-6772 stillwatersmedspa.com The Image Specialist (850) 466-5309 tispns.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

Summer Vista Assisted Living (850) 434-3232 summervista.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS Fiore of Pensacola (850) 469-1930 fioreofpensacola.com

March 2016 | Pensacola Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

Tribute to the Rev. Beverly Madison Currin Jr. (June 28, 1931-January 7, 2016), rector emeritus of Christ Episcopal Church AN ABBREVIATED VERSION OF A PENASCOLA ATTORNEY'S SPEECH HONORING THE LIFE OF "MATT" BRUCE PARTINGTON, SHAREHOLDER AT CLARK, PARTINGTON, HART, LARRY, BOND & STACKHOUSE

C

an you hear it?

That voice. That resounding, powerful but joyful voice, echoing off the plaster walls of Christ Episcopal Church.

As a child, to me, the voice of God was a deep baritone emanating from a man, diminutive in stature only, with a soft Carolina accent, who had a penchant for small convertible sports cars. That voice would sometimes thunder and sometimes whisper, but it was always the voice of love.

The voice “spoke into being” an integrated Christ Church, and an integrated Episcopal Day School. That voice guided this beacon of downtown Pensacola for nearly 40 years with humor and firmness and shaped the framework for what Christ Church is today.

The voice communed with Angels, hearing “the beating of unseen wings,” and confronted all sorts of demons with a ferocious and fearless love. The voice exemplified faith, hope, and love—the three pillars—a sort of secondary trinity—of his theology.

The voice has always been my mentor and friend. He ministered to my mother and my family at her death, and he did that and much more for countless others.

Beverly Madison Currin, Jr., Ph.D., “Matt,” arrived at Christ Church in 1966. He promptly carried forward the construction of a new parish hall and administrative wing, with his office where he could keep an eye on downtown—but always with Christ Church in his field of vision. In time, he moved the school into a new facility, directly out his office window, so he could easily keep an eye on it, too.

During this time period, Matt was fighting, and winning, battles that we children had no idea about—like the integration of the church and school. For us, the Joseph family—the African American family who helped Matt to integrate church and school—and for others later, African Americans just became part of our church and school communities. But, for Matt, it was courageous at the time.

Matt left an enduring legacy that includes Episcopal Day School, which he deeply loved. He was a force for historic preservation in general and for Old Christ Church in particular. Frustrated and weary of the city's neglect of this church's original home, the voice appeared at a City Council meeting, invoked a clause in the original deed to the city, and demanded that the city deed Old Christ Church back. The City Council promptly complied. He spearheaded fundraising for its restoration, and it is now within the UWF Historic Trust and has been enjoyed by thousands since then.

There was yet another important trinity in Matt’s life—and in 34

Pensacola Lifestyle | March 2016

Eleanor’s. Their three sons, Madison, David, and Saint Julian. They, and their wives and five daughters, brought real joy to Matt, and he frequently spoke of all of them with great affection and loved them deeply.

But there was still more to Matt. The evening he died, I looked through the eight books he wrote and found several things that capture Matt’s essence.

First, in the acknowledgments, was this: "I would also like to express my appreciation to my wife who patiently endures my concerns and quietly gives me strength and courage. Without her, this book would never have been written." What a wonderful and accurate description of Eleanor, about whom, he writes, "patiently endures my concerns and quietly gives me strength and courage."

Then, this quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson that speaks rather slyly to Matt's approach to theology, ministry, and life: "God offers to every mind its choice between truth and repose. Take which you please; you can never have both." Matt spent his adult life in truth, and when forced involuntarily over the last few years into "repose"—he did not like it one bit.

Finally, I found this, which I think touches all the bases of Matt's trinity of faith, hope, and love: Jesus’ resurrection was more than just the final act of redemption. As Karl Barth said, "The purpose of life is not death, but resurrection." Resurrection was one of Matt’s favorite themes. Those sermons were especially compelling and thunderously loving. Matt delivered his final sermon by moving to his own final resurrection the day after Epiphany. Knowing Matt, he intended our hearing every sense of that word “epiphany.” We all miss and love him and know he still has his eye on us, the school, the trust and Pensacola.

When it’s quiet, listen for that voice. Can you hear it? I’ll bet you can.

Education Night Thursday, April 7th

“Getting Your Body Ready for the Beach”

Are you beach ready? If you’re dreading bathing suit season, come see us at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery. We would love to help you improve what’s bothering you, and regain your confidence.

The confidence and positive attitude that come with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, are as real as the benefits you will see.

GulfCoastPlasticSurgery.com

476.3223

543 Fontaine St.,Pensacola, Florida 32503

At Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery, we have helped thousands of patients from around the world look and feel their best. With advanced training and decades of combined experience, Drs. Butler, Leveque and Brown offer the latest in plastic surgery techniques & personalized care, providing patients with beautiful, natural results.