Bella Magazine June 2023

GOOD VIBES

Finding the good vibes at the beach, in the home and at work; Bayside Hypnosis helps you make desired changes; have fun with permanent jewelry.

PLUS: Bucket list trip to Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce!

“I had no idea hypnosis could do this! I went from a size 12 to a 4 in just six months!!! Hypnosis made it possi ble for me to EN JOY eating healthy, exercising, and relaxing my mind I eat what I want, I’m not on any kind of diet, and oh my goodness …I li ke being thin! ”

- Lind a J-Milton

“I feel li ke a new woman in ALL areas of my life! I have a new and “much” improved attit ude toward life, eating healthy, and exercise Why did I wait so long to come here?”

- Lisa D-Pe nsacol a

“When I came here, I wa s a hot mess with emotional bag gage and health issues. I literally feel li ke a plug ha s been pulled out of my head to let all the garbage out. I feel lighter and more relaxed ... Oh, and I’ve lost 40 lbs in 5 months! ”

- Melin da G-Pe nsacol a

Celebrating 45 years

What an amazing ride it has been! THANK YOU ALL for the years of support & love! With so many new customers, we’d like to “reintroduce” ourselves to you all.

Lee Tracy has been dressing the women of the Mississippi and Florida Gulf Coast since 1978. Let our stylists help you find that perfect outfit for any occasion. We pride ourselves in finding fashion forward pieces for your wardrobe at affordable prices. “Dressing the Generations” has been our motto here at LT as we take pride in our ability to dress women of all ages and sizes from head to toe! We are your “One Stop Shop” that carries clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry & accessories to complete your total look. We look forward to serving you for many years to come. We are conveniently located on E. Gregory Street just before McGuires.

Much love from your Lee Tracy girls, Diane, Kate & Carol Anne

from the editor

It’s officially summer and the good vibes are flowing! The traffic at the beach is picking up, the sun is getting hotter and the Gulf waves are happily breaking on the sugar white sand.

There’s just something about being at the beach that makes you feel good as you soak up the vitamin D and enjoy the salty air. All of your worries seem to blow away. There’s no better place to be during those moments when life seems overwhelming, which is all too often lately. It seems like so many of us have a lot going on in our lives.

I’ll be the first to tell you that it’s hard to juggle it all sometimes and stay positive that everything is going to turn out OK. I just have to remind myself that I’m doing the best I can – and so are you - and while I don’t know how some things are going to turn out, I’m OK with the “I don’t know.”

While I’m having those internal discussions, Pensacola Beach is one of my favorite places to dig my toes in the sand (get in contact with those good earth vibes) and take time for me. Just the sound of the waves lapping on the shore can soothe any troubled mind.

This issue looks at different ways to get more of those good vibes in our lives – from the beach to the home to meals out with the family. We all have our own “happy place” that makes everything around us better. Good thing for us, there are many options locally it’s just a matter of finding the time. Easier said than done, isn’t it? But it’s so worth it and so necessary to refuel our batteries so we can keep on keepin’ on.

Find your place and embrace it.

— Kelly MacLeod

Bella Staff

PUBLISHER / Kelly MacLeod

EDITOR / Kelly MacLeod

ART DIRECTOR / Elizabeth Meyer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Liz Biggs, Sloan Stephens Cox, Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr., Alice Crann Good, Kelly MacLeod, Allison McCrory, Leslie Peck, Leah Seacrest, Magi Thomley Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lakesha Davis, Kate Treick

the

: Taylor Bowles models a Billabong romper ($55.95) with a fitted Roxy crop top ($30). Find out more on Page 10. Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Sidney Garber 18K yellow gold cuff, $13,900 each, ModaOperandi.com.

Sablyn “Emerson” pants, $865, Shopbop.com.

Jimmy Choo “Sacaria/PF 120” sandals, $2,050, JimmyChoo.com.

Amur “Mimi” dress, $548, Shopbop.com.

BY SLOANE STEPHENS COX / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED

Ben-Amun “Cobra” 24K gold-plated bracelets, $295 (set of three), ModaOperandi.com.

Wide-leg pants, $39.99, H&M.

Gianni Bini “Kemara” sandals, $129, Dillard’s.

“Memories of Her” dress, $68.25, U&I BTQ.

Groundbreaking Care

Baptist Cancer Institute

At Baptist Health Care, we offer a comprehensive oncology treatment program that encompasses every aspect of cancer care. From diagnosis and patient education to leading-edge treatments and research, our nationally recognized program focuses on providing you with a personalized cancer care plan.

Deeply rooted in our Mission to help people throughout life’s journey, to make us — our community — better, Baptist Cancer Institute offers groundbreaking oncology and hematology care. As Baptist Health Care continues, to transform to better serve our community now and for generations to come with the team at Baptist Cancer Institute.

ebaptisthealthcare.org

fashion

LIGHT UP THE SEASHORE

Floral hues, linen, beach pants & more!

By Allison McCrory

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Think fluid garden influences with a touch of vintage when selecting beachwear for summer 2023!

Look for “all things linen” as well as button ups and beach pants in a variety of prints, advised Cherie Krohn of Innerlight Surf & Skate in Gulf Breeze proper.

“Bandeau tops and tie-side bottoms are making a comeback,” she said, and wide is the go-to summer cut for legs. Matching sets are stylish over a bathing suit and take you to dinner or anywhere the summer sunset inspires.

Pretty pinks, greens and purples are the refreshing colors of this season when the coast is calling.

“I’m loving all the feminine florals” Krohn said. “They always do well with a great solid staple. Embossed clothing is coming back strong as well.”

Thanks to new innovations, a day at the beach involving water sports can include saltwater-resistant jewelry. Innerlight carries stainless steel jewelry immersed in gold, making it more than happy to accompany your favorite swimwear for a dip.

Krohn describes it as “perfect for our active coastal girl.”

Also hot in the summer accessory lineup are platform sandals, slide sandals, straw hats, dad hats (baseball-style hats crafted from soft canvas) and claw flower clips. Look for sun protection tops to ensure coastal fun is skinsafe.

Shopping list: “Matching sets are all the rage,” said Cherie Krohn of Innerlight Surf & Skate. This top and bottom in some of the season’s favorite hues by illa illa are $29.99 each and are fabulous together or mixed with other pieces. Minty swim top by Roxy is $48.

Shopping list: “I love the colorful clothes she wears and the way the sunlight plays upon her hair,” were the iconic lyrics of 1966’s No. 1 hit “Good Vibrations.” This outfit is a big nod to the ’60’s and ’70’s style that is surging in 2023. Cropped top by Baevely, $44.99, and high-waisted, wide-leg jeans by Billabong, $89.95.

Shopping list: Create a celestial seaside vibe in this floral bikini by Rip Curl (top: $64.95, bottom: $54.95) and ultra-feminine cover-up by Hyfve, $49.99.

Taylor Bowles

June model Taylor Bowles has a few go-tos that never fail to inspire good vibes.

Painting – or really anything artistic –is one.

“The beach is the place for the best vibe all the time. By yourself or with friends, it’s always a good time,” said the spring UWF graduate who studied criminal justice. “Sometimes I’ll bring my paint out there and paint what I see.”

When burning off some stress is in order, Bowles pumps iron and works out at the gym.

As a Greenville, South Carolina, native who is a proud child of the 2000s, Bowles’ favorite styles hint at that era.

“I’m into the old 2000’s fashion with a mix of alternative in there. My black boots are my staple, that’s why I have four pairs that are different shapes, sizes and textures.”

Ultimately, those bright beautiful vibrations we love in others, and ourselves, come from within each of us, said Bowles.

“I believe that good vibes really are the energy you bring with you.”

Shopping list: Button-ups are hot this summer! So are embossed fabrics and shades of pink and purple. Combine all three with this pretty Billabong bikini (top: $65.95, bottom: $59.95). Merci top will shine on land or at sea, $49.99.

Shopping list: Who doesn’t love a romper for ease and comfort? Pair this one by Billabong ($55.95) in easy-on-theeye olive with a fitted Roxy crop top ($30) and finish off with neutral accessories for an earthy vibe!

About The Location

Managed by Paradise Beach Homes: 1110 Ariola Dr., Pensacola Beach; 27 Via DeLuna Dr., Pensacola Beach; 850-916-0777; paradisebeachhomes.com

Hair & Makeup

Leilani Pitts, Izzo Hair & Co., 801d N. Ninth Ave., Pensacola; 850-677-8017; izzohair.com

Clothes Compliments of Innerlight Surf & Skate, 203 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., Gulf Breeze; 850-932-5134; innerlightsurf.com

Model Compliments of Izon Models & Talent LLC, 301 N. Barcelona St., Suite E, Pensacola; 850-433-2099; izonmodels.com

stylingthe shoot

Photography: Kate Treick / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory

Where to shop: Innerlight Surf & Skate

Something

Alco earrings, $38. Alco pearl necklace, $36.

Simple choker locally made), $35. Hair clip, $7.

Charming Shark pink necklace, $10.99.

Clay Creation earrings (locally made), $24. Clay Creation earrings (locally made), $22.

Alco bracelet, $44.

Roxy hat, $46.

I-SEA sunglasses, $28. Rip Curl beach blanket/towel, $49.95.

Reef sandals, $65.

Olukai sandals, $100.

Roxy purse, $59.50.

Summer is in full swing and so is the heat and humidity. When the weather switches gears, so will your skin and how you take care of it. During the longer days of summer, more hours are spent outside soaking up the sunshine. These simple steps will help keep your skin healthy, radiant and ready for every cookout, vacation and beach day.

Leslie Peck is a local makeup artist, aesthetician and lash artist with almost two decades of experience. She has worked 11 seasons of NYC Fashion Week as well as several beauty shoots while living in New York City. Leslie also has experience in TV, film, print and celebrity makeup in Los Angeles. She specializes in bridal makeup, skincare education and was featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal in 2007.

Simple, Summer

APPLY SUNSCREEN EVERY DAY

One of the most important things to do for your skin this summer is wear sunscreen. This will prevent sun damage that can cause cancer and pre-mature aging.

It is important to use a sunscreen on the face that is made specifically for the face. The skin on our bodies is different from the delicate skin on the face. Regular sunscreens can cause breakouts and oiliness, but there are several great sunscreens on the market for both face and body. The most important thing to look for is at least an SPF of 30, broad spectrum coverage and don’t forget to protect your lips. We often think about putting sunscreen on our skin but not our lips – harmful UV rays can also cause damage to the lips so find a lip balm with SPF. If you are in the sun for multiple hours at a time, don’t forget to reapply SPF every 2 hours.

CLEANSE LESS

There is such a thing as washing your face too much.

After a long summer’s day, it is very important to deep clean your skin, face and body. Make sure the sweat, sand and pollutants from the air are removed from your skin. This is extremely important to help with breakouts and good hygiene. Fresh, clean skin will also help your rest better at night.

In the morning, it isn’t always necessary to wash your face with cleanser again. If you have cleansed the night before making sure all makeup and impurities are removed from the skin, simply splash your face with water or gently rinse in the shower, pat dry and add your moisturizer and sunscreen. You will find washing your face less in the morning will keep the skin glowing and hydrated. Sometimes over-washing strips the natural oils our skin produces and puts our sebaceous glands into overdrive. The pores will then produce too much oil and can cause more skin issues.

Summer Skin

By Leslie Peck

EXFOLIATE REGULARLY

Exfoliating is one of the most important steps to maintaining healthy skin. The best way to remove dead skin cells and deep clean the pores is gentle, all-over exfoliation. It is important to find something that works for your face and a different product for your body.

For the face, there are chemical exfoliants and manual exfoliants. Manual exfoliants are scrubs that have small particles in them, brushes, loofahs, sponges and gloves. All of these work well to slough away dead cells, you just have to find what works best for you. Chemical exfoliants are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHA). AHA’s have lactic, glycolic, citric and tartaric acids that break down the dead skin cells and gently shed them. The BHA have salicylic acid and beta hydroxyl acid which are better for acne prone skin.

Exfoliating two to three times a week will keep the skin glowing and healthy. For the body, use exfoliating scrubs, brushes, gloves and loofahs to smooth and polish the skin to a healthy glow. Don’t forget elbow, knees and feet have rougher skin and need extra time to soften.

HYDRATE OFTEN

Even though our summers are so humid it feels like we are walking around in soup, it is still very important to add hydration to your skin. Long days outside in the sun will dehydrate the skin and deplete the nutrients it needs.

At the end of the day, after you have cleansed and exfoliated, slather on a generous layer of body oil, lotion or a mixture of both to your entire body. Anytime you use soap, remember you are taking all of the moisture, along with the dirt, off the skin. You have to replace the moisture back into the skin to maintain a balanced pH. When hydrating your face at night, add serums and eye creams layered with a thick moisturizer. During the day, a lighter moisturizer and SPF are a must.

SELF-TAN

As much as we love the look of sunkissed skin, the harmful UV rays will cause premature aging and can cause cancer. There are so many great options for selftanning on the market along with many businesses that offer spray tan services. This is the best way to have that golden glow and maintain the health of the skin. Self-tanners can be drying on the face so it is always best to use a self-tanner that is specifically made for the face or use a darker foundation and bronzer to blend into the shade of your body. Always exfoliate the entire body before tanning for a smooth, even application.

trends

Get LIT

with permanent jewelry

Coming in HOT!! The latest trend of permanent jewelry is taking social media by storm.

You may have already been “zapped” or know someone who has a wrist full of these dainty, mix-andmatch sparkling adornments. After all, it’s really hard to stop at just one! With an approachable price point, it’s too tempting not to stack and layer.

Permanent jewelry is just that – jewelry worn 24/7. While bracelets are the most popular, necklaces and anklets featuring charms or accents are among other choices. The process involves “zapping” or fusing the ends of a chain directly where you’d like, securing it so it can’t slide off or be easily removed. Don’t worry, if you need to remove it, it can be done so with a jewelry cutter and welded back together at a later date.

Brittany Clifton and Melissa Byrd partnered with Nashville-based permanent jewelry company Lit Brand LLC in September 2022 to bring the permanent jewelry rage to our area. Get Lit Pensacola offers 15 different 14K gold, rose gold-filled and sterling silver-filled chains and multiple charms.

Get Lit hosts pop up events at businesses and local events as well as private parties such as bachelor parties, baby and bridal showers, girls’ night events, birthday parties and company team building events.

“Meeting amazing people and forming relationships along the way having been the most fulfilling thing about our business,” Clifton and Byrd commented.

The entire process is simple and quick. Once you’ve selected your chains, adorably named after Beyonce songs (which just could sway your choices), you sit to determine your perfect length. With a couple of zaps to solder them on, you’re on your way.

“We take pride in knowing that the chains we carry are made to last. Every piece is tested before they are released to the public – and our brand makes everyone smile.”

By Leah Seacrest

Want to connect? Get Lit Pensacola’s schedule of events are listed on Facebook and Instagram. Or contact the duo at getlitpensacola@gmail.com or 919-302-0763.

Welcome to your new jewelry obsession!

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Melissa Byrd and Brittany Clifton of Get Lit Pensacola display their permanent jewelry of 14K gold, rose gold-filled and sterling silver chains and charms.

causes

Building a house,building a life

By Allison McCrory

Treick

For the tenth year, Gulf Coast women will soon kick off the process of building hope for a fellow area woman.

Pensacola’s annual Habitat for Humanity Women Build commences June 16 with a breakfast followed by construction training, fundraising and the culmination –build days in September when more than 150 builders put hammer to nail and saw to wood. Teams gather again to landscape the pristine new home in the fall.

Women on at least 15 teams each fundraise $500 through volunteer opportunities provided by Habitat or individual initiatives. It’s a mission that has been gaining interest since Pensacola Habitat launched Women Build in 2014.

“Our goal began as 15 teams of 10, but we’ve exceeded that goal the past couple of years,” said Quinn Luehring of Pensacola’s Habitat for Humanity. “Last year we had about 170 women builders! We’re flexible – people can choose to participate as individuals or as a team of any size. The only requirement is that each participant raise $500 to go towards the Women Build goal of $100,000.”

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS & FAMILIES

Those involved in the process describe it as a winwin life changer for everyone.

“We frequently hear stories from our homeowners of adults returning back to higher education and receiving their degree, their children’s grades improve and the families’ overall quality of life improve because of it,” said Luehring.

For Kolleen Chesley, who heads up Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast, working alongside the woman who would inhabit the home they both helped construct in 2022 was profound.

“Our team got a chance to meet her and meet her son, which kind of brings everything full circle – when you not only get to work with the organization, but you also

• Photos by Kate

Photography and provided by Habitat for Humanity

ABOVE: “Home ownership often results in higher educational achievements for residents,” said Quinn Luehring of Habitat for Humanity. RIGHT: Pensacola Habitat for Humanity Women Build celebrates its tenth year in 2023.

“I thought that was pretty cool to see our members embrace a skill that they’d never tried before and then do it and then see how empowered they felt – that was unexpected. I didn’t realize that would be part of it.”

— Kolleen Chesley

get to meet the person who is receiving the benefit of our efforts. And just seeing how her story changed. That was the first home anybody in her family had ever purchased. So, to be able to see her receiving that was so impactful. We use the phrase in our organization ‘touch the work.’ So that’s an example of being able to touch the work. Not only are you physically working on the house, but you’re physically engaging with the person who is going to be owning that house and seeing the impact of that.”

In addition to building up a community, women builders experience the rush of operating a power saw!

POWER TOOLS & SWEAT EQUITY

Chesley’s team showed up at last year’s build looking “really scared.” But by the end of the day, they were pink power builders.

“To watch our members who had never done things like construction or volunteering in that capacity, to watch the amount of confidence they had by the end of the day – to me that was really neat. Some of the women just were giddy when it came to the power saw,” she said. “I thought that was pretty cool to see our members embrace a skill that they’d never tried before and then do it and then see how empowered they felt – that was unexpected. I didn’t realize that would be part of it.”

In addition to labor hours from volunteers, carefully vetted homebuyers are required to invest 200 hours of “sweat equity,” explained Luehring, meaning volunteers and home buyers often rub shoulders. Last year’s home buyer worked a full-time job while raising a young son and putting in volunteer hours.

What began in 1991 when a group of women in Charlotte completed the first women-built Habitat for Humanity house is now firmly rooted on the Gulf Coast, transforming the lives of home buyers and volunteers, said Luehring.

“The program continued to grow across international borders, empowering women everywhere to address poverty housing for themselves, their families and their neighbors.”

pensacola beach HIGH TIDES AND GOOD VIBES

By Magi Thomley Williams

Afew months ago, Meg Peltier was contacted by Shelley Johnson, owner of Pensacola Beach’s local newspaper Island Times, who shared that the Pensacola Beach Chamber had been without a president for several months. Peltier was invited to help get the organization on its feet.

While she considered the offer, she asked herself, “How can I be of service? What can I do to help? What can I bring to the table?”

Then she agreed to the offer.

“It was a challenging year because so much had to be done. A lot had to be undone. So, I just rolled up my sleeves. Everything had to be fixed – the phone system, the air conditioning, building repairs – which was no one’s fault. It was just the circumstances, just trying to survive the effects of COVID.”

Much has changed since Peltier took leadership of the chamber.

“Things are going great for us. Chamber memberships are growing. I’ve just got this great team that we’re building. When I took the job, there were a couple of people here, then recently I hired Jessica Simpson who worked at the Greater Pensacola Chamber, then Jack Brink, who was one of our volunteers,” Peltier said. “When I got here, there were about six

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Beachside dining, entertainment and relaxing views at Whiskey Joe’s on Quietwater Boardwalk.

or seven volunteers. Next thing you know, we have 31 volunteers we now call Ambassadors. The chamber has a small working board of about nine people who are just amazing and really dedicated. I owe a special thanks to Christine Brewster with Levin Rinke Resort Realty and Christine Brewster Photography for her leadership and guidance in my first year as president and CEO.”

Peltier said the partnership with the Island Authority is important as well.

“We have a partnership with Santa Rosa Island Authority – we manage the building for them, and they support the chamber. They give us money for fireworks every year and advertising money. It’s a wonderful partnership. And I’ve found tremendous support from the community.”

The chamber now has beach educational programs that are a collaboration between the chamber and local businesses, something that Peltier

sees as unique.

“I think something unique about Pensacola Beach is just so much collaboration,” she said. “And it’s not that way sometimes in other communities. We all want to cross promote things. When Bands on the Beach is happening, businesses have happy hours and offer dinner specials to support that event. Every event that we have, everybody buys in. It’s unique and I think now we have a really special vibe. I have found that people on the beach seem to be looking for a unified solution to the problems that we have. So that’s been refreshing.”

Being a connector is a passion of Peltier’s and she loves seeing new businesses open on the beach and thrive.

“It helps older businesses gain more credibility, more relevance, navigate change. And now with all the mutual support that everybody has, there’s an energy on the beach right now that I can’t put into words.”

Businesses are thriving, growing and moving to the beach. Bear Fruit Bowls and Coffee is one of the newest businesses to find a home on Pensacola Beach. This little gem located at the foot of the fishing pier beside Casino Beach Bar & Grille is described as a beach retreat for a fresh, healthy açaí bowl and organic locally roasted coffee. Build your own refreshing snack of peanut or almond butter topped with fresh fruit and enhanced with natural sweeteners or try one of the many coffee options while you take advantage of free Wi-Fi and take a break from the sun.

Native Café is a local institution celebrating 15 years on Pensacola Beach. The most in-demand breakfast/ brunch/lunch spot on the beach for locals and tourists alike is expanding to make room for more guests and more good vibes. Visit thenativecafe.com or their Facebook page for progress reports.

Whisky Joe’s is newly open at

“Things are going great for us. Chamber memberships are growing. I’ve just got this great team that we’re building. When I got here, there were about six or seven volunteers. Next thing you know, we have 31 volunteers we now call Ambassadors.”

— Meg Peltier

Quietwater Beach Boardwalk and is known for its World-Famous Barefoot Tiki Bar and tiki-inspired cocktails. Whisky Joe’s hosts weeknight happy hours and can host your special event in the event pavilion or the indoor event space. Visit for white sand, cold drinks, delicious food and sunsets over the waterfront views of Pensacola Beach. On the menu are mouthwatering “Floribbean” inspired dishes featuring Local Fish Tacos along with Grand Grouper Sandwich, Strawberry-Guava Rib Basket, Gator Bites and a Raw Bar.

High on the list of favorite Pensacola Beach activities is catching a Blue Angels practice in preparation for Red, White and Blues Week and the Pensacola Beach Air Show. Practice sessions can be viewed from the beach or Fort Pickens, and there are many opportunities to experience the Blue Angels practices from the water on cruise ships, pontoons or ferries via boat charters and rentals. Contact the Pensacola Beach Chamber

at pensacolabeachchamber.com for a list of beach vendors and visit facebook. com/BlueAngelsPracticeInfo for the very latest Blue Angel’s practice schedule information. This year, Red, White and Blues Week events will take place July 5-8, culminating in the air show on July 8.

Another new spot on the beach is Piazza Pizza.

“Piazza Pizza just opened in the Hampton Inn Pensacola Beach.,” said Heather Hice, director of food and beverage marketing for Innisfree Hotels. “The outlet was established to provide one-of-a-kind, thin-crust, New York style pizza that is easily accessible to Pensacola Beach for both locals and visitors. Piazza Pizza offers delivery to Pensacola Beach residences or pickup for anyone lounging on the nearby sand. Our Italian oven was uniquely handcrafted brick by brick, constructed right here in our kitchen specifically for Piazza Pizza. The rotating stone-deck

creates a crispy, golden-brown crust baked to perfection every time.”

Anyone who has lived in the area long has experienced a dining adventure at H20 Grill, which is undergoing a transition, too. Located inside the Hilton, H20 is being rebranded as Salt and offers seafood dishes with the vibrant flavors and rich cultural traditions of the Mediterranean. Follow Facebook posts at facebook.com/ saltpensacolabeach for up-to-date opening day announcements.

Of course, all those beach offerings are a draw for Pensacola residents, too. There has been an intentional effort to share information and create partnerships between business on the beach, in Gulf Breeze and the City of Pensacola.

“We have started creating partnerships with a lot of the things to do in Pensacola,” Peltier said. “For many years things were separate between the beach and Pensacola so I’m trying

Piazza Pizza: New York style pizza is brickoven fired at Piazza Pizza for beach delivery, pickup or inside dining at Hampton Inn on Pensacola Beach.

to literally bridge that gap. We’re partnering with the Florida Park Service and letting people know exactly when Fort Pickens is open and providing information on NAS. Even the zoo is a member of our chamber because that’s something great for kids. It’s not just the beach experience, but it’s the whole cultural experience and people getting to know what our whole community is about. We’re so rich. We have visitors from all over the world – Germany and Brazil and Japan and Alabama. They want to go to the beach, but they also want to have a different experience, so they ask ‘where can we go around here? What can we do?’ Now we’ve become more inclusive in the information that we offer and letting people know how much there is to do here.”

Pensacola Beach Chamber

l o c a l a w a r d w i n n i n g

membership is open to businesses across the bridge, too. Any individual or business can join the chamber which now has over 200 members that are from the beach, Gulf Breeze and Pensacola.

“Our collaboration and partnerships make us all stronger and better, everybody’s feeling that out here. At The Visitor Center, typically, we have 800 or 900 people come through our doors in February or March. This year in March we tallied 2,100 guests. That is more than we usually do in June and July. Something’s happening out here and in the Pensacola metro area; we’re getting in surveys as this great place to visit and to live.”

The word is out, and people are coming. They’re visiting. They’re moving. They’re staying for the high tides and good vibes.

D O W N T O W N

P E N S A C O L A

D I N I N G greatsouthernrestaurants.com

Bear Fruit has refreshments, shopping and free Wi-Fi all in one beachside location

profile

LUSHARON WILEY

Generating good vibes through intentional corporate culture practices

By Magi Thomley Williams

The move to Pensacola was initiated by the military, but, more than thirty years later Lusharon Wiley, Ph.D., chooses to live in the area because, quite simply, she likes it.

“There is so much to do, opportunities abound and Pensacola is expanding and growing,” Wiley said. “I can hardly wait to see what happens next! I am constantly discovering new things about Pensacola that keep me interested and looking forward to looking for the next adventure.”

Born in Valdosta, Georgia, into a large family with caring parents, she was expected to do the right things. They provided guidance and discipline and an emphasis on education.

“I would describe my upbringing as typical for the era. There were rules to follow, work to be done and manners to be shown at all times,” she said. “Education was stressed as one of the ‘must haves’

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

The artwork is a three-dimensional piece that was created by local artist, Trish Woodhouse. After seeing Woodhouse’s art, Wiley knew she wanted to have a piece created. “I met with Trish and told her what I wanted – to capture the tobacco barn that I used to work under when I was growing up in South Georgia,” Wiley said. “To my amazement, based on my description, Trish was able to design the piece. Working in tobacco and picking cotton are such a big part of my early history.”

Wiley’s WISDOM

Invite and embrace non-conventional thinking. It doesn’t matter if it’s not the routine way of doing things. YOU are uniquely made – this includes how you think and the things you choose to do. Remember, do you – everyone else is already taken.

Be willing to deep dive into conversations that may become intense; this requires a mindset that is ready to embrace change even amid the “messiness” that it might take to get to the next level. It is often in this place of discomfort and ambiguity that creativity can flourish and might result in something that is transformational.

Be kind to yourself and others.

Select super star supporters. Surround yourself with people who are cheering for you.

Show your appreciation whenever someone helps you. This will open the door to great professional and personal relationships.

Seek opinions – people love giving advice. One of the main reasons we network with people is to take advantage of their experience, skills or knowledge.

Give consistently, receive occasionally.

Remember that another woman’s success is not your failure. Celebrate others’ success without questioning your own.

Avoid compliments that compare.

Be outrageously and gloriously you!

Keep on inspiring me! Women of Pensacola – you rock!!!

and always showing respect to others was a ‘must do.’”

She earned an undergraduate degree at Tuskegee University, then completed a masters and a doctorate. Wiley worked in social services and then for nearly a quarter of a century, she worked in higher education.

Then came the opportunity to join Innisfree Hotels where she serves as vice president of corporate culture. Innisfree is a Florida-based hotel management, marketing and development company where Wiley is responsible for managing and leading the company’s culture practices by providing expertise and support in the areas of employee engagement and retention, diversity and inclusion, culture training and navigating difference.

Wiley is enthusiastic about her work and its importance to the organization and its team members.

“At Innisfree Hotels, our culture underpins our success,” she said. “I work with other members of the senior leadership team to ensure that the Innisfree work environment is inclusive and welcoming to all team members. Going beyond the routine practices of diversity and inclusion, culture practices and training at Innisfree are intentional. Team members participate in culture training each year to learn skills that foster an inclusive work environment while helping them to succeed both in the workplace and in their personal lives. The skills they are taught are built on the premise of cooperation rather than competition.”

Wiley says that Innisfree understands the importance of continual improvement and ongoing practice and with an underpinning of culture practices and training, Innisfree continues to expand its portfolio and service as an organizational leader in the community.

“Through our social responsibility program, The Hive, we are making meaningful impacts in our community. Among the programs that we support, many of which we started, are the Equity Project Alliance, Parent

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

• Member of the Mayoral Transition Team (City of Pensacola)

• Founding member of the Equity Project Alliance

• Chair, Miraflores Community Advisory Group for the Burial Ground Study (City of Pensacola)

• Board Member, WSRE-TV Foundation Board

• Board member, Pensacola-Escambia evelopment Commission (PEDC)

• Board member, Pensacola Children’s Chorus

• Member, United Way of West Florida Visioning Team

• Member, Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast

• Member, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated

• Board member, Greater Pensacola Tuskegee Alumni Club (GPTAC)

University, and Dixon School of the Arts and Sciences.” Wiley shared.

Innisfree continues to innovate and expand to serve Pensacola residents and guests. The Fairfield Inn on Pensacola Beach is nearing completion and one if its newest ventures is Piazza Pizza.

“It’s fabulous,” she said of the new pizza restaurant that recently opened in the Hampton Inn Pensacola Beach. “If you are looking for great dining experiences, don’t forget to visit SALT, Water Pig and Red Fish Blue Fish Restaurants at Pensacola Beach.”

Wiley, who grew up moving around in a military family, has long been very active in the Pensacola community and continues to be highly engaged and bring her positive attitude to local nonprofits and was recently a member of the mayoral transition team.

She has a love of family, community and her work.

“I have two wonderful children and five smart and beautiful grandchildren. Today, I work in an industry that I adore with team members and colleagues who both support and encourage me but are willing to provide honest feedback when needed.”

Each day she generates good vibes and enjoys their benefits in everything she does.

Magi Thomley Williams is a corporate consultant, writer, speaker, and trainer at Thomley Consulting. She can be reached at Magi@ThomleyConsulting.com.

body & soul

All hypnosis is SELF-HYPNOSIS

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr. • Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Michelle Holman, hypnotist and owner of Bayside Hypnosis.

There are some perceptions about hypnosis.

From the classic “The Twilight Zone” series to your high school graduation night in which willing participants were plucked from an audience to eat an onion on stage thinking it was an apple: there’s a key word within these scenarios – willing. With true hypnosis, there’s no just sitting back in a chair while a hypnotist dangles a swaying watch in front of your face telling you how sleepy you’re getting. There are no unwanted subliminal messages piped into your mind that inadvertently make you return to your office as a slacker, like in the movie “Office Space.” Unless, of course, you’re willing to see a hypnotist for that reason.

The point is, hypnosis helps you unlock your willingness to make better choices. Whether it’s to lose weight, to quit smoking or drinking or to reduce overall anxiety, the choice is always ours, and hypnosis helps us become willing to make those decisions.

WE HAVE THE POWER

“I don’t have powers over anyone,” said Michelle Holman, hypnotist and owner of Bayside Hypnosis. “A lot of people when I tell them I’m a hypnotist, their eyes get really big and say ‘I’ve never met one of you before,’ like I’ve got powers.”

Holman elaborated that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis.

“I can’t do anything to you. I can’t make you quack like a duck when it rains. I can’t make you do anything that you do not want to do.”

This goes back to a desire to achieve something, or to be willing. Hypnosis helps us store and sort those desires into our individual belief systems. These belief systems are influenced by a number of factors, and as we take in information from the world, we, in turn,

begin to act and live according to that information.

What do we call this storage system? Our subconscious.

“It’s your control center – your subconscious mind,” Holman said.

In addition to storing information like when to blink and breathe, the subconscious mind also stores memories and the feelings attached to them as well as your habits, good or bad.

“Your subconscious mind is your feelings and how you feel about something,” she said. “So when you learn something, you have to make a decision how you feel about it.”

This is ultimately how those good or bad habits are formed, along with repetition, repetition, repetition.

“For example, let’s take someone who wants to lose weight. If you need to lose weight, you know exactly what to do. And if you don’t, you can Google it,” quipped Holman. “You can Google anything.”

Her point is that information such as healthy recipes, exercise routines, blogs, articles and podcasts is far and wide, but what is keeping us from making those arguably “easy” choices among this wealth of information?

“If you don’t believe you can lose the weight, if you don’t trust yourself to lose the weight and feel as though if you lost the weight, you’d have to hold yourself accountable, then it’s going to be hard for you and you’re going to have selfdoubt,” she said.

FORGIVE BUT DON’T FORGET

We can all admit that we’re often hard on ourselves. Societal standards are changing at breakneck speed, and sometimes we find ways to cope, which can ultimately lead to bad habits. But no one is unique in developing a habit, but the reason for developing it certainly is.

“Everyone’s habits and belief system worked at some point in their life, or

they wouldn’t have it,” said Holman. “Say you have someone who’s smoked for their entire life, and now they want to quit smoking and they don’t believe that they can because they believe they are addicted.”

Maybe you just wanted to be part of the “cool crowd” as a teenager or you went through a stressful time in your life, our reason for developing a habit is definitely a personal one.

“Once you realize that maybe you ‘needed’ the smoking and that maybe you needed that to relieve some stress in your life because you were going through a lot of negativity, you used smoking as a tool to change the way you feel at that moment,” she said.

But just with any aspect of life, there’s always room for improvement, especially with ourselves. It’s just important to go easy on ourselves while we make those improvements.

“You don’t have to beat yourself up over it. You don’t have to feel as though you’re such a bad person because of the way you used to do things,” she said. Which brings us a perfect opportunity to truly forgive ourselves. To understand that those choices aren’t working for us now and that we’re incredibly strong for even coming to that conclusion. Forgiveness provides a foundation to sorting through that belief system and moving in the direction of forming better habits.

“What if you knew that to stop smoking was just a decision,” asked Holman. “And what if you made a decision now that you would like to live a smoke-free lifestyle and just forgive yourself for ever doing it in the first place? You can now see what life would really be like if you didn’t smoke. You would smell good; you would be able to kiss your partner; you would probably live longer. You can breathe and go on walks.”

Thus, by forgiving ourselves, it gives

My perspective

A few years ago, and with the support of some family and friends, I decided to make some changes. I’ll be the first to admit that at the time there was definitely tremendous opportunity to make some improvements to my body, mind and soul. It’s always easy to look back with hindsight, but the key to these changes was realizing we’re all doing the best we can with what we have at any particular moment.

Like anyone, I’ve had my share of trials and tribulations, but that’s a story for a different day over a mocktail. Let’s just say that my therapist has shed tears for me on a couple of occasions, but the takeaway from that is the feeling of being heard. But what was I trying to say all those years I was making arguably self-destructive decisions? I had the words but the inability to express them. That’s when these loved ones suggested hypnotism: a way to touch base with my subconscious to get to the root of why we make the decisions we do.

I subscribe to the belief that our bodies are temples, and I was treating mine like a latenight, smokey dive bar that served copious amounts of fast food. I knew how to live a better life, but why wasn’t I making the decisions to live it? For some reason, this question overwhelmed me, and along with other external factors we all face, it forced me to shut down at times, punting any action required to make these undoubtedly life-saving changes.

My first meeting with Michelle at Bayside Hypnosis will be one I’ll never forget. Her effort and dogma to establish full trust with clients went a long way as I sat nervously in her office recliner, but as the sessions commenced, so did my comfort as her words wrapped around me like the fabric in that comfy chair. She listened and made it all about me as she does with all her clients. Not in a conceited way, but in a way that made

me feel worthy regardless of my past “mistakes.” Not only did she teach me how to move forward, but also how to actively imagine what forward looked like. I wasn’t happy with how my clothes fit; I was tired of waking up glassy-eyed and not functioning at 100 percent, and I knew deep in my heart I could be a better person for my friends, family, community, and most importantly, for myself.

Hypnosis helped me to unravel the feelings I accumulated about these external factors along the way. Personal and family life, careers, relationships – you name it – all had influenced my life in very specific ways, but were those feelings congruent with those influences? A lot were not. But, over time, Michelle helped me work through these feelings, and she’ll be the first to tell you she has nothing to do with her clients’ success and that it’s us who possess the power to make the changes.

That’s what hypnosis is – it’s not someone telling you what to think, it’s someone helping you think your own productive thoughts, to put it very, very simply.

At the time of publication, I will have lost and kept off close to 100 pounds, and I haven’t had a sip of alcohol in 1,173 days. That’s my journey, and everyone’s is different. Sometimes we don’t know how to read our own life maps, but hypnotism is more than just a compass – it’s a personal tour guide while using our own feet to take each individual step.

It doesn’t matter how big your stride is, as long as you’re envisioning where you want to go, you’ll get there because believing in yourself is quite possibly the best destination you’ll ever have.

— By Bradley “Beej” Davis

us the comfort and courage to take the next step by focusing on the potential for success rather than the despair of failure even before we’ve begun the process.

IMAGINE YOUR GOALS

What is achievement without goals? How are we measuring success in our lives, both personal and professional? In order to accomplish a task or goal that we’re willing to take on, we need to imagine that as a reality for ourselves. It always seems easier said than done: “just make better choices.” But as complex as our minds are, they are equally as creative.

“It is all about your life and what you want, so I am extremely goal-oriented,” said Holman. “As your hypnotist, I have to know what you want and what do you see if you could be successful.”

She asks questions like: what would that be like for you? What would you be doing? What would happen? What would it feel like if you were getting what you wanted because of

the actions that you were taking? She compares this feeling to “taking off the shackles,” meaning we are no longer a prisoner of what we haven’t accomplished, but instead given the freedom to visualize success for ourselves.

“In here we teach you how to use your imagination, to visualize them and see yourself following through,” she said.

One example might be imagining your clothes fitting right and appearing beautiful when you look in the mirror. Or perhaps it’s during a shower and imagining how you feel your body being the size and shape you want it to be.

“When you use the imagination to feel what it’s like putting on the size pants that you want, at that moment, we are training the subconscious mind to want that. And when you want something, you will find a way to make it happen.”

So you’re ready to sit across from a complete stranger and immediately open up about your deepest desires, horrible

habits and private past? Unlikely. But that’s OK, because as they say, anything worth doing is doing slowly. Hypnosis usually takes place over a number of sessions, and the reason has to do with trust.

“I don’t believe in single sessions. There has to be trust between the client at the hypnotist,” Holman said.

Beginning with the aforementioned foundation of forgiveness, other themes are discussed like leveling, love, awareness and many more during sessions. Regardless of your journey, it always begins with the willingness to begin. Even reading past this article’s title means you’re willing to at least learn more about options to improve your life, but it has to begin with you.

“You’re already admitting that you want change in your life. You may not know exactly what it is, and you don’t have to know. The mind will only change if you want it to. If you don’t want change, it won’t happen.”

local fare

mellow mushroom

Local owners create good vibes

By Kelly MacLeod

Linda and Jim Livingston and family own eight Mellow Mushrooms across the southeast but having lived in Pensacola for 60 years, it’s the Pensacola location that means the most.

Walking into the Mellow Mushroom on Bayou Boulevard you immediately feel what they describe as “an eclectic vibe, with steampunkinspire art.” There are bright, playful colors, a huge water ski lighting fixture, a Santa in surf shorts, a flying fish hanging from the ceiling and half of a VW bus with fun, funky art on it.

The good vibes are real.

But it’s not just the décor that creates the vibe.

“They (the Livingstons) want everybody that they work with to be happy and to be successful,” said general manager Sam Hastie. “Not only are they businesspeople, but they are definitely people-people. They created a culture where we’re not just employees, we’re a big family.”

Hastie began her restaurant management career in 2015 working for Chuy’s Tex Mex, an Austin-based chain. The Stockton, Alabama, native was traveling a lot around Alabama while working for Chuy’s, but she wanted to get closer to family. Since Pensacola is only an hour away from Stockton, Hastie was happy when she saw the opening for a general manager position at Mellow Mushroom.

“I grew up coming to Pensacola,” she said. “We went to the fairgrounds and the beach and stuff like that, so I was already pretty familiar with the area.”

She didn’t realize she was going to luck into such a positive work environment. She was initially sad to leave Chuy’s but found a sense of culture and family at Mellow Mushroom.

“One of the things that I really love about Mrs. Livingston and everyone is that they’ve created a big family,” Hastie said. “They are so openminded, and they definitely love to hear other

people’s ideas, and they are really very inclusive. All of our stores get on a conference call every week and we problem solve, if somebody’s having an issue we brainstorm and help figure out what’s going on. So, they definitely create a safe atmosphere and an environment that helps us grow.”

It also helps that the food is high quality –this is not your average pizza joint. Mellow Mushroom’s homemade crust makes the pizzas and calzones to die for. They also have several delicious salads, with the Greek salad being the most popular, and popular appetizers like the pretzel bites, which are bite-sized pieces of their signature dough baked and finished with garlic butter and parmesan, and the spinach artichoke dip.

The restaurant balances having a great bar with 72 draft beers and craft cocktails and being a family-friendly place that is fun for the kids. They have trivia nights, happy hour specials and a dog-friendly patio.

“I describe Mellow Mushroom as a fun and quirky environment where it’s safe to be yourself but also to get great food. We like to have fun,” Hastie said, also mentioning the importance of the entire team. “I have to applaud the entire staff as well as the assistant manager Christiane Koontz, she’s been with us for nine years and she’s amazing.”

The owners not only foster a sense of family in the restaurant but also believe in supporting their hometown community. In addition to sponsoring sports teams and spirit nights, the restaurant donates to Ronald McDonald House, Sacred Heart, North Rotary Annual Charity Car Show to Benefit Autism and several area art programs.

“The Livingstons build that foundation for us to be able to do those things with the community and to be able to give back.”

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

for the home

Good design vibes

By Alice Crann Good

Talk to an interior designer, and you learn fast: Positive energy starts at home sweet home.

As soon as you pass through the French doors of Haus of Hue on Ninth Avenue, strong currents of cheerfulness boost your sensibilities. A sea of décor eye candy for the soul vies for your attention.

First up: a grand photograph of champagne glasses by Pensacola-born photographer Carol Shelton. An international photographer, Shelton shot this digital photo, “Champagne Series,” while in Champagne, France. It hangs above a Bramble console on a back wall.

Look up: The matriarch of lighting – a magnificent, Neoclassical lead crystal chandelier – steals the light show.

Keep meandering throughout Haus of Hue and you discover many gems, large and small, to create a “good sense” home – including a unique tourmaline selenite bottle, a faux

Mongolian lamb chair and a modern Cyan Design Savoye table lamp.

“Creating a good vibe in your home is all about what makes you happy, what is accommodating to family and friends,” said Bruce Gluszek, Haus of Hue senior design consultant.

Simply adding pops of color with pillows, art, natural and organic forms, earthy tones, adequate lighting and comfortable furniture with easy-living performance materials works wonders, Gluszek said.

“Remember, if your home interior is in discord, your mood is in discord,” he added. Talk about promoting good vibes for your home. Pulling up to Duh for Garden & Home on Ninth Avenue, you know this design center has it down for outside and inside. Take time to visit The Villa, The Garden Shop, The Barn, The Warehouse and grounds.

Prepare to experience a wide range of good

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

haus of hue

duh for garden and home

vibrations from an assortment of décor, from recycled glass balls filling a wooden bowl to sea glass beads to an oversized, antique brass swing lamp with a linen drum shade and oh so much more.

“Our motto is we buy what we love, and if you buy what you love, you will bring good vibes into your home,” said Duh interior designer Curtis Black. “Nothing is cookie-cutter anymore. When you look around, you should select things that bring you joy.”

Black says to use that approach for every room of your home.

“Bedrooms are very personal spaces where you try to create a cozy space for at least two people,” Black said while looking at a beautiful bed laden with layers of

duh for garden and home

linen covers and lots of pillows. “So, try to create a sea of comfort and tranquility with clean lines and layers. Create something that says, ‘C’mon. Come sleep.’”

As a matter of fact, Black said, every facet of your home should radiate good vibes – from your dinnerware, glassware, scented candles and diffusers, accessories, furniture, bedding and towels.

You can certainly serve up some positive vibes with Duh’s haute dinnerware by Vietri, Costa Nova, Pullivuyt, Montes Doggett, Merci Louis and more.

Walking out to Duh’s garden and outdoor dining areas where plants cover rustic shelves, hang from trees and embrace patio seating, Black added, “And, remember, plants have always represented tranquility and peace.”

Horseshoe Bend is a magnificent bend in the Colorado River is located in Page, Arizona, halfway between the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park.

worth the trip

BUCKET LIST TRIP

Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce

“You cannot improve on it,” President Theodore Roosevelt said of what is now Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, describing it as “a wonder of nature.”

Our family of five took a spring break trip to this awe-inspiring place, continuing our journey north to Southern Utah. Here are some things we learned along the way.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

We flew into Phoenix and enjoyed the scenic drive through cactus country, stopping at the breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon and quaint town of Sedona. We got our kicks on Route 66 filling up at a diner in Williams, an old mining town.

When we entered Grand Canyon National Park, we were blown away by the spectacular view at Mather Point. Walking along the snowy South Rim path, we ended our day at the educational Geology Museum at Yavapai Point, the best place to view the sunset, according to the park ranger.

There are many wonderful places to stay within the park, such as the Bright Angel Lodge, Maswik Lodge and the iconic El Tovar Hotel. These accommodations must be booked well in advance. If you are not a pre-planner or are looking for less expensive options, there are plenty of hotels in the town of Tusayan, outside the park entrance.

Visiting the Grand Canyon is best in April through June. We went in March and all the

Story and photos by Liz Biggs

hiking trails were closed due to snow. June gets very crowded once school is out, and July and August are scorching hot. However, if you are just interested in sightseeing, March is a great month to beat the crowds. Pack a parka and gloves, though.

Here’s one more GCNP tip: the south entrance is most popular and can get backed up for hours (this is why people splurge and book accommodations within the park). We drove the spectacular Desert View Drive on day two and exited the park through the east entrance. It was the road less traveled. And it spits you out near the magnificent Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona.

ZION NATIONAL PARK

Zion National Park in Southern Utah has it all: mountains, canyons, buttes, mesas, monoliths, rivers, slot canyons and natural arches. It is hard to describe the experience of entering the park and driving through it for the first time – wondrous, breathtaking, jaw-dropping

TOP LEFT: The awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. BOTTOM LEFT: My view from the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park. TOP RIGHT: View from inside the Sand Caves in Kanab, Utah. BOTTOM RIGHT: A massive Saguaro Cactus in Phoenix, Arizona.

Peekaboo Canyon, a slot canyon in Kanab, Utah, is off the beaten path but worth the trip.

– words don’t do it justice. The switchbacks and manmade tunnels blasted through the mountains are mindblowing.

Angels Landing is the famous hike that everyone talks about. It is quite dangerous and requires a permit. For us, the hike up to Scout Lookout and the West Rim Trail was strenuous and breathtaking enough. No need to risk life and limb.

The Narrows, where the thousand-foot-high walls of Zion Canyon are separated by only 20 to 30 feet, is another famously dangerous Zion hike. On a dry summer day, it might be a fun hike. But the Narrows are susceptible to flash flooding because much of the surrounding area is bare rock that does not absorb water. During a flash flood the water lever rises almost instantly. We witnessed this phenomenon on the Emerald Pools Trail hike. Thinking this would be an easy hike for a rainy day, we encountered a monsoon waterfall that just the day before was not a waterfall at all. The Narrows is closed in winter, but we hiked to the Temple of Sinawava where it begins to get a glimpse of this iconic place.

The Zion Lodge is the only place to stay within the park and well worth it for the night star gazing and an easy shuttle to every hike. However, if you are not a pre-planner, there are plenty of accommodations in nearby Springdale and Kanab. We spent a day in Kanab and hiked the Sand Caves, Belly of the Dragon and my personal favorite – Peekaboo Canyon. This slot canyon is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. An easy hike if you can get to it – it is off the beaten path and requires a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Bryce Canyon is known for its hoodoos, legendary rock formations dramatically sculpted by erosion. Sadly, due to a heavy March snowfall, all the hiking trails were closed the day we made the drive. It was beautifully picturesque but my advice is to wait until May to experience Bryce Canyon.

TOP: The Narrows, Zion National Park. BOTTOM: Snow covers Bryce Canyon National Park in March.

TRAVEL TIPS

An important tip for a fantastic trip to the wild, wild west is invest in good hiking boots. Don’t even think about wearing tennis shoes, even for sight-seeing. Hiking boots have the traction you need for slippery, rocky, sometimes snowy trails. I lost count of how many people I saw slipping and falling on hikes due to tennis shoes.

But even more important than hiking boots is to be flexible. Mother Nature is strong-willed and cares not about your itinerary. Our Bryce Canyon plan was busted but we pulled over outside the park and climbed up a muddy hoodoo and got the best drone footage of the trip.

One of my favorite hikes was a random sign we saw on the side of the road that

said “Toadstool Hoodoos,” so we pulled over. We hiked less than a mile and all of a sudden the scenery changed and it felt like we were on a different planet.

That “easy” rainy day hike we did in Zion – we will never forget being pummeled by a Niagara Falls-ish waterfall. And my favorite place, Peekaboo Canyon, was never on our itinerary. We discovered it in a notebook our Airbnb hosts left for us.

Don’t worry about how many miles you put on your car or the distance between the parks; the scenery is so beautiful that some of my best memories are the drives, listening to music and enjoying the family camaraderie. Be adventurous, be flexible, but wear the boots!

Toadstool Hoodoos in Kanab, Utah.

out&about

Bella Relaunch Party

Bella magazine celebrated its relaunch under the new ownership of publisher Kelly MacLeod. MacLeod purchased Bella in 2022 and relaunched in the fall of 2002. The Bella team, advertisers and supporters gathered at Angelena’s Ristorante Italiano on April 19 to celebrate the successful relaunch and hear about Bella’s exciting plans for the future as it continues to support, uplift and inspire women and the Pensacola community.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Lisa Nellessen Savage, Brooke Parkhurst, Kelly MacLeod

Jennifer Harrison, Lucy Antonetti, Magi Thomley Williams

Jennifer Hill, Allison McCrory, Liz Biggs

Brian Wyer, Harriett Wyer, Madrina Ciano

Lindsey Braston-Shook, Bradley “Beej” Davis, Kelly MacLeod

Leah Seacrest, Bradley “Beej” Davis

Teresa Dos Santos, Lori Storey

Sherlyn Waghalther, Cristina Waghalter, Hong Potomski

Laura Cole, Berry Cole, Kelly MacLeod

Kelly MacLeod, Laura Belsinger

out&about

Operazzi Under the Big Top

On April 29, supporters of the Pensacola Opera gathered for the annual Operazzi Under the Big Top fundraiser. Guests were greeted with a glass of champagne topped with cotton candy and enjoyed entertainment by White Tied Quartet & Music Company and Flying With Ease. Culinary Productions provided a gourmet fourcourse meal, and the evening was topped off by a live auction and paddle raise supporting the opera’s programs.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Milan Brunet-Sabastia, Allan Benton, Bradley “Beej” Davis, Greg Vannoy

Courtney Campbell, Autumn Moore

Mark VanBuren, Jo Rich

Elaine Vo, Kayla Young

Linne and Paul Tobin

Ron and Jan Miller

John and Romana Lopez

Jeff and Lydia Abram

Paul and Delfina Dietrich

Malcolm Ballinger, Cari Wilson

Jill Hubbs, Sandy Cesaretti Ray Elise Gordon, Carol Stoot

Bobby Dunn, Emily Echevarria, Sheila Dunn, Hannah Denaro

Latricia Wilson, Melanie Rathke, Paris Harman, Joseph Tegenkamp

Charlie and Sue-Sue Sherrill, Michael Dennis

Marcus Ellis, Jen Wells, Gabe Peaden

Charles and Ellen Neal

Marcia Ransom, April Kocher, Amanda Brown

Andrea and Lance Hamblen

Cori and Michael Riesberg, Liz Richbourg

Don’t judge a book by its cover her perspective

Those of you who loyally read this column may remember my very first Her Perspective, “Podcasts: Listen at Your Own Pace” in the April 2021 issue. The world was filled with COVID chaos and divisive politics, so I pitched a humor column to my editor.

I was honest with her – with a college degree in business administration and a career in sales management, I may not be very good, but I love to write. I think I remember her saying that curiosity and open-mindedness are often more important than writing skills, right before she said, “you’re hired!’

I was nervous to put myself out there. Just like when you cringe at the sound of your own voice in a video, I had butterflies in my belly when I first saw my words on the printed page.

I anxiously asked an old writer friend what he thought about my first column.

“I’ve been listening to podcasts for years and know everything there is to know about them, so I skipped your tutorial,” he abruptly responded.

At first my feelings were hurt, but I just swallowed my pride, smiled and walked away. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.

My story wasn’t really about podcasts. It was a selfdeprecating tale about humility – not taking yourself too seriously. It was about laughing at yourself when you get old and can’t keep up with whippersnapper technology, try as you might. Like recently when my teenage daughter desperately called me from a sports road trip and needed me to submit an assignment from her school-issued laptop. It took me longer than I’m willing to admit to figure out how to open an Apple laptop (my computer is a desktop dinosaur). She had to facetime me from the bus and her whole team

laughed hysterically at my feeble attempts. Once I figured out which side was up (the dang Apple is upside down on purpose), which side had the hinges (when did they start using rubber, not metal, for hinges?) and how to unsnap all four of the tight corner lock-snaps, submitting the assignment was the easy task.

Have you ever judged a book by its cover?

Or a song by its title? I surely have. One of my favorite songs is “A-Punk” by Vampire Weekend. It sounds like it would be a death metal slam dance song, but it is a delightfully light, catchy tune that your grandma would love.

I’ve never read “David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens. I was forced to read “Great Expectations” in high school, and it did not meet my great expectations. However, my book club chose to read Barbara Kingsolver’s fantastic novel “Demon Copperhead,” a modern take on the Dickens classic. My curiosity sparked and I had to go down deep into the Dickensian rabbit hole.

I found this quote in the David Copperfield SparkNotes: “Copperfield learns, repeatedly and in a variety of ways, not to judge based on physical and social appearances but on individual character. What society might assume is a weakness can actually be transformative strength.”

Thanks, Charles, for teaching me that being judgy was just as uncool in the 1800s as it is now. Just because someone drinks their water from a dented Hydro Flask, not a Yeti or a Stanley, doesn’t mean they’re lame. Closing the coverless book on this, I will leave you with a quote of my own. It’s a bit more Seinfeldian than Dickensian. Actually, it’s a few words of Lizdom:

“You might as well laugh at yourself; it’s better than crying at yourself.”

Liz Biggs is a Pensacola native and mother of four. Once upon a time, she had a high-pressure career but now she has a pension and is a freelance writer for Bella Magazine. Liz enjoys music, dancing, tennis and travel and tries to find humor in everything.

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