Bella Magazine September 2023

Think LOCAL

Homemade and homegrown finds; InHer Physique pelvic therapy; local authors shine; the power of a fitness community; hot fall fashion; a sweet GNO

PLUS: Pensacola Seafood Festival and Gallery Night’s Art of Fashion

from the editor

Well,hello there! I am so happy to join the Bella team and its mission to inspire and uplift women. I’ve been a Bella reader for years and am always motivated by the stories of passionate, creative and world-changing women. What a thrill to dive in myself as the new editor.

A Tennessee native, I moved here just after college in 1991. I worked in advertising and public relations early in my career, then started freelance writing and editing as I raised a family and moved, moved and moved again with my husband’s job, living all over the place, including Europe. Our moves brought us back here twice, and we managed to make it stick in 2003.

When my children were little, I became a teacher so I could go to school with them. Then I moved up to middle and high school so I could focus on my passion for reading and writing, but I always kept my side gig freelancing – the one place my adult self could write and think.

For over 30 years, the Pensacola area has been home to me, whether we were actually living here or not. After roaming all over, we truly appreciate the magic that can be found locally. But as locals, we can spend so much time avoiding the crowds of tourists that it’s easy to forget why they come.

This issue reminds me of all our area has to offer and inspires me to recommit to sometimes acting like a tourist in my own town. I want to try new restaurants, shops and attractions and revisit triedand-true classics. I want to buy local first and to uncover the wealth of talent and creativity around every corner.

Seeking out local vendors not only supports our

own community, but it can be healthier and better for the environment as well. Think about organic farming, handmade products sourced from local materials and reduced packaging and shipping costs. We are so lucky to have a vast array of local choices for everything from produce to jewelry to art to honey – all topics covered in this issue.

In the spirit of local love, this month, I’ll meander the sidewalks at the Pensacola Seafood Festival, just as I did my first year here, taking in the sensory heaven of great food, music and artisans (see story on p. 48). I was working for a local advertising firm. My first week on the job, a coworker said, “Let’s go grab lunch,” and then surprised me with the Seafood Festival. We spent the hour walking, talking, and eating, and by the time we got back to work, I was hooked. Pensacola had worked its magic on me.

As I said, my family moved – a lot – and it taught me something important. You have to love where you are. You have to be your own cheerleader for positivity and seek out everything that is cool and fun and amazing about where you live. It can be so easy to dwell on negatives, getting bogged down in the daily sludge of work and the news, and forget to see the gorgeous tapestry in front of you. The Pensacola area is unique in that it brings together history, the beauty and flavors of the Gulf and a rich diversity of people from all over who come together to make something special you just won’t find anywhere else.

So grab a book by a local author, pick up some homegrown honey, plan a menu with locally grown produce or find your fitness community home; however you choose to Think Local, just be sure to revel in the experience as uniquely Pensacola. There’s no place like it.

— Lisa Player

BODY CONTOURING

CHEMICAL PEELS

HAIR RESTORATION

INJECTABLES

INTIMACY BRIGHTENING

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

MEDICAL GRADE SKIN CARE

MICRONEEDLING

VISIA SKIN ANALYSIS

FACIALS

HOLISTIC BODY TREATMENTS

: Stacy Robello models a Mariposa crop top, oversized All Business blazer and snakeskin leggings. Find out more on Page 12.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

spendorsave

Aquazzura “Oahu” sandals, $825, Shopbop.com.

Proenza Schouler White Label ruched dress, $495, BergdorfGoodman.com.

Dolce & Gabbana pussybow blouse, $1,237, MatchesFashion.com.

Amanda Uprichard “Mabel” dress, $246, Shopbop.com.

BY SLOANE STEPHENS COX / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED

Schutz “Brynn” heels, $128, Shopbop.com.

Ruched dress, $64.99, hm.com. Blouse with bow collar, $49.99, hm.com.

“Nina” Jacquard minidress, $80, Francesca’s.

Throughout Escambia & Santa Rosa Counties in Northwest Florida, community members "Take Action" to make a positive impact on the mission to end domestic violence

Get involved, win fabulous prizes, and make a difference.

FavorHouse.org/TakeAction

CHECK IT OUT!

fashion

HEAT-HAPPY FALL VIBES

Boots, Prints, Blazers – Go!

By Allison McCrory

Creating an autumn fashion look in September along the Gulf Coast means getting creative!

While temps could be in the triple digits, fashion is leaning autumn.

“Fall fashion can be tricky on the Gulf Coast,” noted Maegen Settlemires, owner of La Di Da Boutique on Nine Mile Road. “It’s still hot here and the fashion world is all about sweaters, layers and warmth. We try to find pieces that create the look and feel of fall but are still comfortable for our weather.”

Consider darker colors, lightweight, oversized blazers, airy dresses, breezy wide-leg pants and the season’s favorite trend – boots, as well as leather – for achieving the cowgirl look that is coming in hot.

“Boots will be huge – ankle boots, cowboy boots and chunky boots. Also, sneakers embellished to add comfort to your look,” said Settlemires, adding that slides and flats are comfy, cool fall footwear options.

Color lovers are in luck this autumn!

“The palette has really widened this year. Of course, lots of reds and oranges, but we are seeing the infusion of magentas, kelly greens, rich blues and bright golden yellows,” she said. “Prints are huge right now. Florals and stripes are leading the way with geometrics, botanicals and abstracts.”

Promoting her local community is a priority for Settlemires.

Jennifer Ponson Jewelry and Coast Hippie are among the area companies La Di Da carries.

“Supporting local shops is so important to the character of our community. Local businesses are what set the area apart. We have shopping events to support local vendors and bring fun and excitement to the shopping experience,” said Settlemires.

• Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Shopping list: Color may be making headlines this fall, but neutrals are a girl’s best friend. You can’t go wrong with a black crop top by Mariposa, $30, and flattering black snakeskin leggings by DJ, $98. Oversized blazers are on trend this fall. This one by All Business, $80, will be a wardrobe workhorse with a multitude of looks. So much neutrality creates the perfect palette for a statement leopard bag!

Shopping list: A loose crop top by On the Right Track in berry, $62, teamed with ripped jeans by Joyrich in wheat, $94, exude less-is-more style. Fun, comfy sneakers are the perfect finishing touch.

Shopping list: Prints are all the rage this autumn as are warm reds and oranges. This ultra-feminine dress by Heart of Glass is $70.

Stacy Robello

Home Instead owner Stacy Robello loves keeping it local.

Local boutiques are her favorite places to replenish her wardrobe; exploring new Pensacola eateries is her go-to date night (or lunch) with her husband; boating and surfing in local waters renews her soul.

In addition to supporting the community’s elderly population as they age in place, Robello’s company gives back.

“It truly means so much when we can help someone else through community efforts,” said the Memphis native, who spent her later developmental years in Atlanta before following her parents to the Gulf Coast.

She played soccer for Brewton-Parker College in Georgia for two years before transferring to UWF and ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. After teaching for five years, Robello pivoted from teaching to elder care. She is also pursuing graduate studies in gerontology.

“We love being a solution to families and also being an employer for our Care Pros. Helping older adults age in place is our passion.”

With three active children at home, me time and free time often involve water – or baseball.

“Taking our kids boating or surfing are our top picks. But there’s always time for a Wahoos game, which our kids love,” Robello explained.

“My biggest and most important hobby is taking care of my family. So when we have down time from sports and school, we travel when we can. Our world is our biggest classroom to learn from, and we hope that helps shape their lives.”

Another big focus for the Robellos is health.

“I’m a big believer in food is medicine,” said Robello.

She now follows a gluten-free diet as well as ketogenic eating to keep symptoms at bay.

“My husband and I focus so much on our health that bad habits are a thing of the past,” said Robello, who no longer consumes alcohol. While adult socializing has evolved, it’s still integral for the Robellos, who enjoy spending date nights supporting local fundraisers.

Shopping list: Some give credit to the release of the Barbie movie. Others point to Pantone’s color of the year, Viva Magenta. Whatever the reason, magenta is soaring in fashion this season. Embrace the trend with these North Hampton shorts, $56, teamed with a gorgeous floral top by Danni, $56.

Shopping list: The sweet olive tone of this dress by DJ, $85, conjures up thoughts of fall. Yet the fabric and cut are cool in the dog days of summer. Add the oversized denim jacket by DJ, $112, as temperatures drop. Finish with one-of-a-kind jewelry by local artist Jennifer Ponson.

About The Location

The Nature Trail home of retired Rear Adm. Kyle and Amy Cozad

Hair & Makeup

Nikki Hounshell, stylist Adore You Salon 2750 E. Olive Rd., Pensacola; 850-261-9595; adoreyousalon.square.site; hairbynikki228@gmail.com

Clothes Compliments of La Di Da Boutique, 875 E. Nine Mile Rd., Pensacola; 850-542-7015; shopladidaboutique.com

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

Springing Forward

stylingthe shoot

By

Around the Earth ocean jasper necklace, $175 Leopard burlap tote bag, $45

the Horns gold wrap earrings, $50

Terra purple dangle earrings, $30

A

purple faceted bracelet, $50 Fall Feelings spotted olive bracelet, $50 Fall Feelings jasper shell bracelet, $50

Wild Ideas gold/black leopard earrings, $22 Roxanne glitter high-tops, $100 Deco Diamond white teardrop studs, $82.50

Swept Away black studded felt hat, $45

Photography: Kate Treick / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory Where to shop: La Di Da Boutique

Children, Parents, Teachers

Betsy the Bookworm!

Betsy the Bookworm, the star of four exciting reading adventures, teaches children the importance of reading books and going to libraries and bookstores.

Buy Betsy the Bookworm books by Pensacola’s own award-winning writer

Come Home labradorite ring, $60

On the Lake pink earrings, $15

Madeline cork wristlet, $30

Elsie Matisse taupe wedges, $100

THE CHANGE

If you are beginning to see signs of menopause, in the trenches of going through it or on the other side of it, you will definitely notice a shift in your skin.

As you go through the change of life, estrogen levels decrease, and collagen production slows down. The skin will become dry and begin to lose volume and tightness. Sometimes the transition of hormones can also cause adult acne, dark spots and unwanted facial hair.

Regular facials and hair removal can help maintain your skin, but there are stronger treatments that will make visible differences in the changes that happen as we mature. Always consult your dermatologist and esthetician before deciding which treatment is right for you.

These three treatments are proven to help skin look brighter, tighter and hydrated.

IPL (INTENSE PULSE LIGHT)

This treatment is a favorite among medical estheticians and dermatologists.

Kim Martin is a licensed medical esthetician who specializes in Microneedling with Radiofrequency, IPL and Hydro Facials. She is the owner of Result Medical Aesthetics and Permanent Makeup in downtown Pensacola. She has been in practice for 40-plus years and is highly recognized as a mentor in her field.

Story & photos by Leslie Peck

Three med spa treatments to help with changing skin during

IPL uses multiple wavelengths of light that can target and treat different things at the same time, unlike a laser that specifically treats one thing. Although you can see a difference after just one IPL treatment, typically a series of three to five treatments is recommended for best results. IPL can be slightly painful; however, it only takes minutes to treat the entire face.

“For hormone related or sun induced pigmentation, IPL will lighten dark spots, reduce acne scars and tighten skin with very little downtime,” said Kim Martin of Result.

FACIAL MEDICAL GRADE PEELS

A medical grade chemical peel is a potent exfoliating treatment. There are different levels of chemical peels. The time it is left on the skin and potency of the peel will determine how deep it will go. Peels help rejuvenate the skin and treat hormonal (adult) acne, texture, sun spots and fine lines as well as reduce melasma.

“I am seeing wonderful results with The Perfect Derma Peel,” said Martin. “This peel goes on in about 15 minutes and then the client goes home with it on. This peel stays on for 6 hours with very little discomfort. My clients are given an at home care kit that has The Perfect Derma Moisturizer and Post Peel towelettes. Usually about the third day you will start to peel. The peeling process can take seven to 10 days leaving your skin looking hydrated and fresh.”

MICRONEEDLING

Small, sterile needles are used to prick the face and neck area to create slight injury to the skin which then generates collagen. Microneedling visibly smooths and tightens the skin just after one treatment. Each microneedling session takes 45 minutes to an hour. For

best results, three to six treatments are typically recommended about a month apart.

“Microneedling will help treat collagen depletion. It can also reduce scars, pore size and firm the skin. There is little downtime; maybe some redness the day of and the day after each treatment,” said Martin.

ONE WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Carol Carlan is director of philanthropy for IHMC and a longtime community leader and successful business executive. Her banking career spanned more than 35 years as the first female president of a large regional bank, and for the past 10 years as the president of the Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation, where she led one of the largest capital campaigns in the region, resulting in a new children’s hospital and expansion of children’s services in the Destin market.

“I have been enjoying the benefits of having facials and different services now with Kim Martin for more than 35 years. The relaxing atmosphere, setting time to disengage and just ‘be’ is good for me,” Carlan said.

Because Carlan cared for her ill husband the last six years and then transitioned from the loss earlier this year, she said she has found the benefits of the treatments to be powerful in a healing way.

“I highly recommend some level of this type of self-care to anyone. The lasting benefits are very good for our health and well-being,” said Carlan.

Groundbreaking Mother Baby Care

At our new Baptist Hospital campus – thoughtfully designed to enhance comfort and safety of mom, baby and family members during those precious first hours.

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.

Dragon boating for a cause

Story by Allison McCrory

Since 2014, every fall for a day, the waters and banks of Bayou Texar host an ancient Chinese tradition.

The Sertoma Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival descends on Bayview Park, along with teams who provide the main event – 300-meter races through the bayou – that rely as much on synchronized teamwork as they do on strength.

This year, the event takes place rain or shine on Sept. 30, with proceeds divided between three of the area’s favorite non-profits – the Escambia County Schools Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and Gulf Coast Kid’s House.

Last year the event raised $20,000 for local charities and generated a lot of fun for participants and attendees.

WANT TO GO?

• What: Sertoma Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival

• When: 8:00 a.m to 5:30 p.m., Sept. 30

• Where: Bayview Park, Pensacola

• Why: Fun and fundraising

• More information: pensacoladragonboatfestival.com; info@ dragonboatfestival.com

“The feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Everyone has a great time,” said event chair Chris Bruner, noting that about 7,500 people attended last year.

“We are even working with Parks and Recreation to help clear overgrowth at the water’s edge to have an even better view this year,” said Bruner. “Working with Pensacola Events, we are planning for ten food trucks this year. There will also be local vendors.”

In addition to an assortment of food, patrons can expect arts and crafts vendors, music, dance and face painters.

Because the popular Pensacola Seafood Festival is taking place the same weekend, event organizers are scheduling a trolley to transport attendees between the two events. The festival’s main event – dragon boat racing – has deep roots dating back at least 2,000 years in China when teams would compete on the summer solstice on what is now the Yangtze River. It’s a tradition with strong renewed interest.

“You may be surprised to learn that it is one of the fastest growing team sports in the world. There are more than 50 million people worldwide participating in dragon boating each year. Teams and competitions are currently found in over 57 nations,” said Bruner. The race process is a well-oiled machine.

Each team has 22 members. The steersman controls the narrow 42-foot-long canoe with an oar from the stern. The drummer, positioned at the bow, strikes a steady beat to keep paddlers synchronized for maximum speed. Ten paddlers row feverishly on each side.

The day consists of each team racing in three heats along a straight course. Leading up to competition day, teams participate in a week of practices that include the basics of paddling and racing.

While most teams at the Pensacola festival are local, some travel a distance to participate.

“Before COVID, we had around 40 teams competing,” said Bruner, noting that teams didn’t compete in 2020, although sponsors and teams opted to donate money collected to charity.

“Getting back to those numbers has been our goal. We had 21 teams participate last year. Several former teams fell out of participation due to their companies restructuring or closures,” said Bruner. “We have been working hard to get new teams to participate. It has been working. We just got a team registered from South Florida.”

Teams can register as late as Sept. 21, and sponsors are welcomed up to the day of the event.

from the heart HANDMADE

By Alice Crann Good • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Across the nation, the handmade industry is surging, and our greater Pensacola community is eagerly diving in.

Fueling the ever-evolving, in-vogue trend is the diverse mix of at-home artisans selling every way possible – via Amazon, Etsy, Facebook, Instagram, websites, community fairs, festivals, markets, art galleries, coops, grocers, produce stands and all types of small businesses.

Local demand is so sizzling haute that Palafox Market expanded and added a trolley service.

“We are very fortunate to have so many vendors participate weekly in our Palafox Market,” said Cailin Feagles, director of operations and events for the Downtown Improvement Board. “We currently have over 200 active vendors across both of our spaces at Palafox Market North and Palafox Market South.”

Feagles explained the popularity of these weekly markets.

“Part of what makes the Palafox Market so special is we have many different types of vendors selling everything from plants and produce to prepared foods to art and jewelry

and so much more.”

A few other Pensacola local goods hotspots include Angel’s Garden, Apple Market, Blue Morning Gallery, Bailey’s Produce & Nursery and Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe.

But take note – it’s not just about shopping. An unforeseen byproduct of this robust craze: The handmade-from-the heart movement is changing the lives of its creators and many others.

CHANGING TIDES JEWELRY

A strong sense of community is about connection, a shared belief that makes us stronger, said Kristen Browne, Changing Tides Jewelry metalsmith and designer.

“I love that I’m blessed to make my living through my creative expression, and I’m continually grateful for this community that supports our local artisans and businesses,” said the Army veteran.

Browne said she has always been an artist, but it wasn’t until she discovered metalsmithing that she truly found her medium.

“Pairing our local seashells with sterling silver just added to the alchemical magic

Kristen Browne said her mission is to make customers feel strong, bold and powerful when they wear her handcrafted Changing Tides Jewelry, which is heavily inspired by nature and water elements. “It is my truest desire that my jewelry remind you to love yourself, know your strength, acknowledge your weaknesses and use all of life’s experiences to shape you into the best version of yourself.”

LOCAL CRÈME DE LA CRÈME

A smattering of awesome women thriving on the handmade-from-theheart scene:

• Changing Tides Jewelry: Metalsmith/jewelry designer Kristen Browne sells her handcrafted land-and-sea-inspired jewelry at Palafox Market, Gallery Night, Pensacola Beach Art Walk on the Boardwalk, Bands on the Beach, Fiesta of Five Flags festivals/ events, her website changingtidesjewelry.com, Facebook and Instagram. For more info, email info@changingtidesjewelry.com.

• Hammock Bay Soap: Anita Lesko sells her handmade all-natural, all-vegan, cruelty-free soaps, body care products and more at Palafox Market South, at various festivals/events, plus from her website hammockbaysoap.com, Facebook and Instagram. For more info, call/text Lesko at 850-255-2982.

• Just Dahl: Artist/graphic designer Justin Dahlstrom sells her original beach-theme acrylic paintings on canvas and more under her “Just Dahl” artist brand at Palafox Market, area art festivals/ events, via her website justdahl.com, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Patreon: patreon.com/justdahl.

• Mandi’s Makings: Amanda Massingill sells her hand-dyed yarns, crochet and knit kits, crocheted Legacy Blankets for children impacted by human trafficking, homelessness, foster care, etc. She sells her yarns and more at The Petit Pearl shop in Pace. via her website mandismakings.com, Etsy, Facebook and Instagram. For more info, email ourmakings@gmail.com.

• The Hummus Lady: Kelly Joy Peraino sells her handmade hummus in variety of flavors at Shoreline Foods International Market & Deli, Joe Patti Seafood, Apple Market, Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Café (both locations), Bailey’s Produce & Nursery, Craft Gourmet Bakery, The Farm (produce market), Palafox Market, various festivals/events, her website thehummuslady.com, Facebook and Instagram.

• Tracee Neese Designs: Tracee Neese sells her handcrafted leather, faux leather, wood and acrylic earrings at Cantonment Mercantile (where she accepts custom orders), The Market of Pace and Milton, at “Pop Ups” and various festivals/events including the Beulah Craft & Sausage Festival and Beulah Bash, plus Facebook and Instagram. For more info, send an email to traceeneese@ gmail.com.

I was hoping to create,” Browne said. “Something as powerful and strong as metal combined with a delicately unique shell is itself a reflection of life.”

The main message of Changing Tides Jewelry is “one of empowerment, creativity and strength,” she said.

“When we wear jewelry, we do so for adornment, but it may also be for deeper reasons – as a memento from a vacation, a reminder of a loved one, a symbol of a promise, or maybe as armor of strength and power,” Browne said.

Browne, whose creations are heavily inspired by nature and water elements, said jewelry should always tell a story. This comes naturally for her considering where she lives.

“We live in a gem of a city surrounded by natural beauty that can’t be ignored,” Browne said. “Our white sandy beaches alone are worthy of mention. We literally walk on quartz crystal that washed down from the Appalachian Mountains. It’s near impossible to not be inspired.”

Brown has celebrated several years

with her beloved Changing Tides Jewelry business.

She was making jewlery as a hobby while she was a stay-at-home mom. She had to decide whether to go back to her old career or make her hobby her fulltime business.

“I jumped off that cliff and haven’t looked back since,” Browne said.

And she has no regrets.

“Changing Tides Jewelry is coming up on five years in operation, and business just keeps getting better and better,” she said. “Working for yourself isn’t for the faint of heart, but I can honestly say it was the best decision of my professional life.”

What’s next?

“My next big goal is moving my business out of my home into a commercial location,” Browne said. “The business has completely outgrown my current space. I’ve purchased crates worth of new equipment and tools with nowhere to set them up. My notebook is bursting with new designs and plans for new collections. Getting a bigger

“Painting was just something I was going to have fun with, as my dad did,” Dahlstrom said. “When the world changed in 2020, so did my life. My daughter encouraged me to paint and follow my dreams. So, I did!”

— Justin Dahlstrom

workspace is imperative for any of this to happen.

“Not going to lie...I daydream about this constantly.”

JUST DAHL DESIGN

It’s all about creating from the heart, said Pensacola artist Justin Dahlstrom, who’s known in the artist arena as “Just Dahl” – a woman with a spiritual connection to the beach and marine life.

“Painting is a balm for my soul,” Dahlstrom said. “At any time, I have a mental stash of paintings composed in my head, which are planned out before I even pick up a paintbrush.

“I go to the beach to watch the waves and sand to feed my creativity.”

When Dahlstrom moved to Pensacola 15 years ago, she focused on graphic design. After years of living in “this beautiful place,” she decided to pick up a paintbrush and paint what stirs her passion.

“Painting was just something I was going to have fun with, as my dad did,” Dahlstrom said. “When the world changed in 2020, so did my life. My daughter encouraged me to paint and follow my dreams. So, I did!”

Dahlstrom is known for her Just Dahl Design acrylics on canvas. For the past five years, she has painted miniscule beaches on small canvases – smaller than a deck of cards – and “loved adding the little details.”

“I’m known for the tiny details in my tiny paintings,” she said. “And all my paintings are full of saturated color. I’ve been told that this reflects my colorful personality!”

As time went on, Dahlstrom started using larger canvases and painting flamingos.

“Why flamingos? I’m not sure how it started, but today I love adding unique details that give each flamingo I paint a distinct personality.”

Dahlstrom said she is most proud of her “drive to keep creating,” refusing to sit still and always challenge herself.

The love of art and importance of supporting local businesses and artisans was instilled in her from a young age, she said.

“In a suburb of Chicago, my dad built

Recurrent

Pubic

“ I started off making ‘friendly plastic’ fashion jewelry, which was the hottest fashion jewelry trend back in the ’90s,” Neese said.

“Then, I got obsessed with natural stones and beads, making earrings, necklaces and bracelets.”

— Tracee Neese

dust collectors to help keep the air clean for future generations, and my mom was a stay-at-home mom to me and my brothers and sister,” Dahlstrom said. “In their spare time, they were artists, dabbling in many different mediums and showing us kids many pathways in the art community. My parents collaborated to create mod silkscreen signs and worked with local shop owners to display and sell their art.

“The extra income from selling their art helped fund our family trips to Sarasota, Florida, every Christmas. It was during those trips that I fell in love with the beach, and when we returned home, I spent a lot of my time learning all about what was down in that big blue sea.”

Dahlstrom said she will always admire her parents for the values and talents they passed onto her.

“My mom and dad were very invested in the health of the community and their children’s futures,” she said. “I’ve seen that art and craftsmanship build our community and its people.”

TRACEE NEESE DESIGNS

Jewelry designer Tracee Neese said our greater community brims with “creative and caring people, which makes it easy to want to buy local.”

And buying locally has a far-reaching impact, Neese said.

“It keeps money in your community; it means helping a mom and dad put food on the table, take their family on a vacation, pay for a child’s ballet lessons,” said Neese, who has been a proud local vendor for more than 30 years, starting when she was a full-time graphic designer for the Pensacola News Journal.

“I started off making ‘friendly plastic’ fashion jewelry, which was the hottest fashion jewelry trend back in the ’90s,” Neese said. “Then, I got obsessed with natural stones and beads, making earrings, necklaces and bracelets.”

She paused to focus on her family and full-time job.

“After twenty-six years with the PNJ, I happily retired, and about four years ago, I decided to rekindle my passion for making jewelry,” she said.

Following months of researching current fashion musthaves, Neese “fell in love with genuine leathers” and invested in a collection of die cuts with a die-cut machine.

“I made a friend from Washington, Peggy, co-owner of PeggySueAlso Leather company,” Neese said. “That’s when I became obsessed with all different kinds of leather such as cowhide and partial hides.”

Working from home in a small studio and her home’s Florida room, Neese creates earrings with “the highest quality” genuine leather, wood and acrylics for custom engraving and laser cuts – using a powerful Glowforge Pro laser machine. But Neese said all of this will change once her husband, Mike, finishes building her “She Shed” on their property.

Meanwhile, Neese said she is an incessant jewelry designer, using her “personal touch and past experiences and receiving inspiration from people and events in our community.”

She Shed excitement aside, Neese said she never forgets her main goal: to empower women to feel confident and beautiful.

“My pieces are just accessories, but I hope they help women express themselves,” she said. “I want to create pieces for women that are as special and unique as they are.”

THE HUMMUS LADY

Following your heart is empowering, indeed, said Kelly Joy Peraino, better known as The Hummus Lady – the name of Peraino’s Pensacola company.

Even after people warned her about the cumbersome process

of obtaining permits and licenses, learning about government regulations, setting up in a certified kitchen and asking herself, “Am I really going to spend $561 on this blender?” – She did it!

“If women trust their feelings, follow their hearts, they can do whatever they want,” Peraino said. “I wanted to thrive in my own environment.”

The beginning? Call it “happenchance,” Peraino said.

Several years ago, Peraino met a woman through a mom’s group – a woman who earned some extra money making hummus from scratch and selling it. The woman asked Peraino if she would like to take over since she was moving.

Well, the cliché fits: The rest is history…hummus history.

“I really didn’t know anything about hummus, so I did my own research and learned. My goal was to get into Palafox Market, but I needed a certified kitchen,” Peraino said.

Today, Peraino whips up twelve-ounce batches of nine regular hummus flavors and special seasonal flavors by renting the kitchen at Shoreline Foods International Market and Deli on Pensacola’s Main Street.

Some of The Hummus Lady delights: Black Garlic, Deli Dill Pickle, Green Goddess, Chipotle & Cilantro, Roasted Red Pepper, Citrus & Date and Traditional Lemon.

“I have been working out of Shoreline for four years, and I love what I do,” Peraino said. “Local vendors look out for one another because they care about one another. That’s what it’s about.

“I am beginning to understand how well humans thrive when we are in a community. We weren’t designed to live solitary lives separate from our neighbors and like-minded friends. Supporting local artisans is an expression of community spirit that encourages positive energy wherever we are.”

MANDI’S MAKINGS

Empowerment is the mainspring of Amanda Massingill’s humanitarian effort – Mandi’s Makings. When you buy her hand-dyed yarn products, you help raise awareness about human trafficking.

Massingill is the owner and dyer of Mandi’s Makings, which features small batch, hand-dyed yarn for knitters and crocheters. She creates a wide selection of mini skeins, full skeins, sock sets and kits. Kits feature patterns designed by Massingill and include all the yarn you need to complete that project.

“Mandi’s Makings started as a way for me to do what I love and raise awareness about human trafficking at the same time,” Massingill said. “I’ve had the honor of speaking at corporate events, women’s conferences and vendor events to raise awareness about human trafficking since 2012. The difference between then and now is that people are more aware than ever that it exists – not because it wasn’t happening before, but because when you know it’s happening you can do something about it.”

Since its incarnation, Mandi’s Makings has donated handmade gifts to kids at risk and rescued children and also partnered with organizations worldwide to donate needed supplies. Currently, Mandi’s Makings donates a portion of its proceeds to help reach, rescue and restore lives affected by human trafficking. She has assisted Doctors Without Borders and FavorHouse in Pensacola.

“This past holiday season, we partnered with The Petite Pearl shop in Pace to collect and donate supplies to The Secret Place Home in Pensacola,” Massingill said. “For 2023, we are focused on crocheting squares that will be assembled into Legacy Blankets and

gifted to organizations helping women, men and kids at risk/rescued from trafficking.”

A Legacy Blanket is a granny square blanket consisting of squares made by multiple people. Crocheters from across the United States and Canada are working on squares to mail in for this project, Massingill said.

“Communities should support local artists because it is a way for us to connect with one another,” Massingill said. “Building a strong community starts with the people.”

She said local artists enjoy sharing their passion for art and that it inspires others to do the same.

“We use yarn to fight human trafficking! What’s your superpower?”

HAMMOCK BAY SOAP

“I am so excited to be a part of Palafox Market South; it is my happy place and has truly changed my life,” Anita Lesko said.

Lesko is creator of Hammock Bay Soap company, which offers all-natural, handcrafted, vegan soaps, shampoo/ conditioner bars, body butters, wrinkle cream, exfoliating/moisturizing soap, lip balm, sea salt hand scrub – and even dog shampoo and paw balm.

After leaving her job as a certified registered nurse anesthetist in March 2020, Lesko went back to her previous business of making hand-crafted soap.

Lesko shared that her house was “filling up with thousands of bars of soap” – even after donating hundreds of bars to local organizations for the homeless.

“That’s when Hammock Bay Soap began,” she said with a self-satisfied smile.

Lesko loves meeting new people, both fellow vendors and customers. She also appreciates the reception her products are receiving.

“I am thrilled so many Pensacolians are conscious of what they are putting on their bodies and care about our environment. Because my products are all natural and I package them in biodegradable packaging, my customer base is growing. Customers are getting the highest quality products and helping our environment at the same time.”

SHOP LOCAL at Bailey’s Produce and Nursery

By Liz Biggs • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

In 1936, Doc Bailey began selling crops grown on his family farm in Jay, Florida. He and his wife Helen opened Bailey’s Curb Market on Palafox Street in 1938. Fast forward 85 years and Bailey’s Produce and Nursery is still the go-to for locals to find the freshest produce in town.

“Here at Bailey’s, we follow the seasons,” said Kris Folsom, administration and marketing manager. “We purchase from local farmers when produce is in season here. This often includes tomatoes, watermelon, field peas and okra. In fact, we are sometimes able to have produce for sale that was grown by local individuals. These items are fun surprises to be found in the market as they don’t usually arrive in large quantities. These would include figs, calamondins and specialty eggplant.”

First-time shoppers at Bailey’s will be stunned by the variety of produce available.

“We don’t just have sweet potatoes; we typically have three varieties of sweet potatoes. The same with sweet corn – in peak season we offer several different varieties. We have five to six varieties of apples year-round, and in the fall the options will double. We work very hard to ensure that we have the best produce available,” Folsom said.

Everyone knows that Bailey’s has the best tomatoes, peaches and watermelon, but if you’re truly a local, you go to Bailey’s for the amazing shelled peas.

“When the field peas arrive from the farmers, we immediately begin shelling them in our vintage shelling machines. During the ‘season’ which runs from spring to fall, we carry many varieties including pink-eyed peas, black-eyed peas, zippers, white acres, butter beans, speckled butter beans, among others. What we have on hand depends completely on what the farmers harvest at any given time. At the end of each day, any shelled peas that have not been sold are packaged and put into the freezer. These often will tide us over until about January when we all start thinking about the next crop of fresh peas,” Folsom explained.

Locals also know about the mark-down area.

Bailey’s Produce and Nursery, 4301 N. Davis Hwy., Pensacola; 850-332-5959; baileysproduce.com. Bailey’s has been providing fresh produce locally for over 85 years. An assortment of fresh produce, plants and flowers can be found at Bailey’s.

September is prime time to cook up a healthy meal with in-season fresh produce.

“We’re fortunate to live in a region where we get a second harvest season,” said Kris Folsom, administration and marketing manager at Bailey’s Produce and Nursery. Here’s a look at what’s fresh in September:

• Collards

• Turnips

• Okra

• Tomatoes

• Field peas

• Corn

• Bell peppers

• Eggplant

• Yellow Squash

• Zucchini

• Cucumber

“We serve the entire community, and it is important to us to be able provide the best produce at a fair value,” Folsom said. “Once produce is no longer considered premium but it’s still good, we will move it to our discount table. We have many customers who start their shopping at this table and then plan their meals based on what they find there as its offerings change constantly throughout the day.”

The nursery at Bailey’s was once a seasonal destination for plant enthusiasts but it has grown into a year-round nursery with significant offerings. You’ll find landscape plants, house plants, citrus trees, as well as garden supplies and tools.

“We’re proud to have been named the best nursery and garden center in Pensacola for the past three years,” Folsom exclaimed.

Why shop local?

According to Folsom, when people choose to shop local, they are supporting the economy of the community where they live. Farmers and their employees, local markets such as Bailey’s and employees, all benefit from purchases that are made locally. And customers receive a better product. When produce doesn’t have to travel across the country to reach the market, it will be fresher than the produce found in other stores. Less travel time often means it is more nutritious as well.

Zoie Johnson produces honey and other products like beeswax-based soaps at Bee Sanctuary Honey Farms, LLC.

Buzzing with success

Zoie Johnson’s sweet journey as a young beekeeper and businesswoman

By Magi Thomley Williams •

Meet Zoie Johnson, a 22-year-old, determined entrepreneur who turned her passion for bees into a thriving business venture which paid for her college education. Alongside her supportive parents, Rizza and Shelby Johnson, Johnson has built a successful beekeeping enterprise known as Bee Sanctuary Honey Farm.

Johnson’s journey as a beekeeper started at a young age when her father introduced her to the fascinating world of honeybees.

“My dad brought home a hive or two when I was like eight or nine, and I was really fascinated by them,” Johnson recalled.

With her father’s guidance and passion for science, Johnson developed a deep interest in beekeeping, and with her parents, nurtured this hobby into a business.

Bee Sanctuary Honey Farm not only produces high-quality honey but also specializes in grafting queen bees (the action of turning a female worker bee into a queen) and providing beekeeping essentials to local enthusiasts.

“We sell queens and nucs (the nucleus needed to start a hive) to help beekeepers in our area. We try to keep things a little bit more local, so people don’t have to drive so far for supplies,” Johnson explained.

In addition to their tasty honey, Bee Sanctuary Honey Farm offers a range of sustainable products, including lip balms and handcrafted soaps made from beeswax and honey. These natural alternatives provide health benefits and contribute to the well-being of our environment.

Johnson and her mom take pride in their commitment to quality. They focus on maintaining a high standard of excellence in their apiary where dedication and meticulous attention to detail ensure that customers receive top-notch products they can trust.

Bee Sanctuary Honey Farm products can be purchased at several area businesses, including Apple Market, Costello’s Butcher Shop and Deli, Alternative Health Food Store, Solo Caffe, Able Auto Repair, Emerald Coast Holistic Health and the family business, Johnson Construction. However, Johnson ‘s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there; she plans

to open her own retail store soon.

She shared that raw, local honey has many health benefits including relief of allergy symptoms. With the prevalence of industrially-produced honey in the market, Johnson advises consumers to know their local beekeepers and support them. She highlights the importance of reading labels and seeking out raw, locally sourced honey rather than the processed alternatives found in some large retail stores. She explained that some products available at mass marketers are blends of international imports which don’t offer allergy relief supported by the pollen bits in locally produced raw honey.

Johnson encourages residents to embrace nature and let their “weeds” grow.

“Weeds, or what some may call them, are actually flowers that bees rely on for pollen and nectar. By letting these plants thrive, we create a welcoming habitat for bees.”

Rizza expressed immense pride in her daughter’s accomplishments, emphasizing her dedication and hard work.

“She’s really great at what she does,” Rizza beamed.

ZOIE’S PROTEIN PEANUT BUTTER & HONEY BALLS

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup peanut butter

• 1/2 cup oats

• 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder

• 3 tbsp. honey

• 2-3 tbsp. chocolate chips (Zoie recommends Lily’s semi-sweet chips)

Instructions:

Combine and adjust ingredients for the desired texture. Roll into tablespoon-sized balls. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

From becoming the youngest Apprentice Beekeeper in the University of Florida’s Master Beekeeper program at the age of 12 to completing a business degree at the University of West Florida and successfully networking with businesses to secure vendors, Johnson has demonstrated her business acumen and determination.

Zoie Johnson showcases the power of passion, perseverance and environmental stewardship. Her commitment to sustainable practices, community support and quality products sets an inspiring example as she creates a buzz in the beekeeping world.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Holistic Solutions for Pelvic Health

Dr. Justine Williams and her team are empowering women to reclaim their lives

By Magi Thomley Williams • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Pelvic pain, prolapse and urinary incontinence are common issues that affect women’s everyday lives. However, many women mistakenly believe these conditions are normal or untreatable. Justine Williams, P.T., D.P.T., a Pensacola expert in pelvic health and owner of InHer Physique, is challenging those misconceptions.

Williams emphasizes the need to make patients feel welcomed and informed. Symptoms don’t go away; they increase with age. Breaking the silence surrounding pelvic health issues is a crucial step toward promoting awareness and providing effective solutions.

One of the significant challenges in addressing pelvic health concerns is the stigma associated with discussing these issues openly. Dr. Williams highlights the importance of acknowledging the symptoms and seeking help. She wants patients to know that any pelvic floor symptom, whether it’s pain, bowel-related or urinary-related, should not be ignored. It’s essential to seek treatment without downplaying the severity of symptoms. By destigmatizing these concerns, women can feel empowered to take proactive steps toward their well-being.

Dr. Williams and her team take a comprehensive approach to pelvic health, incorporating exercise-based therapy, behavioral training and other holistic methods.

“We offer a mix of treatments based on individual evaluations conducted by Dr. Justine. It’s about finding what works best for each patient,” Stephanie Butts, a dedicated physical therapist assistant, explained. By considering the unique needs and circumstances of each woman, the team offers tailored solutions that address both the physical and emotional aspects of pelvic health.

Dr. Williams actively engages in community outreach programs and collaborates with OB-GYNs, urologists and primary care physicians. Through informative talks and workshops, she aims to educate healthcare professionals about the alternative approaches available for their patients. By offering a more holistic and natural approach, she encourages a shift from simply medicating symptoms to addressing the root causes of pelvic health issues. She also brings her educational presentations to community groups and civic organizations to help inform individuals of their options.

Butts highlights the satisfaction of helping countless

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY?

TAKE THE QUIZ.

Do you leak urine…

…during a cough or sneeze?

…when you stand up or get out of bed?

…with exercise or exertion?

…on the way to the bathroom?

…during sudden urges to void?

…after prostate surgery?

…after bladder surgery?

Do you notice…

…difficulty emptying your bladder?

…frequent urination day or night?

…trouble with constipation?

…difficulty controlling bowel movements?

…a “falling out” feeling in the pelvis?

Do you have… …painful urination? …painful bowel movements? …painful Intercourse? …pain with sitting or squatting? …pain in the genitals?

If you answered YES to any of these, Pelvic Floor Therapy may help. Dr. Williams’ patients report an 80% - 90% success rate. Call 850-483-0586 today for more information or to make an appointment.

individuals on their journey to pelvic health.

“We’re helping a lot of people, and that’s what’s most important. There’s a demand for our services, and it’s needed everywhere,” she stated.

The impact of addressing pelvic health concerns extends beyond individual patients, ultimately contributing to a healthier and empowered community of women.

Anjel Broach, InHer Physique office manager, has been in the healthcare industry for 20 years. She explains that her work with Dr. Williams is the most important work she has ever done.

“We make it welcoming and let our patients know that you’re not alone. What they are experiencing is not normal and that we’re here to change their lives,” she said.

Broach also shared that no doctor’s referral or insurance is necessary to receive services at InHerPhysique. While most patients are women, all ages and genders are served and benefit from pelvic floor therapies.

Addressing pelvic health concerns requires a shift in perspective and an emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care. Through the unwavering dedication of professionals like Dr. Williams and her team, patients are being empowered to break the silence, seek treatment and regain control over their lives. By providing education and effective solutions, they are helping pave the way for a future where every woman’s well-being is prioritized and supported.

The power of a fitness community body & soul

By Leah Seacrest • Photo by Getty Images

Going it alone can be, well, LONELY.

Let’s face it: Everything seems better if people are along for the ride. In pursuing a healthy lifestyle, the power of community can transform this lonely path into an inspiring and rewarding experience. Whether joining a local gym or becoming part of a fitness group, finding a supportive fitness community offers more than just physical gains. There are many benefits fitness communities can provide to all of us as we strive to improve our health and well-being.

Lauren Gaddy, Sandy Urbanavage and Jessi Truett stretch and chat after a workout.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

One of the most significant advantages of being part of a fitness community is the sense of togetherness it fosters. Working toward similar goals with like-minded individuals creates a unique bond, encouraging everyone to support and uplift each other. Being surrounded by people who share your aspirations can help keep you focused and motivated, even when the going gets tough.

ACCOUNTABILITY DRIVES SUCCESS

We often try to talk ourselves out of the struggle of working out. It’s easy to find excuses for why we should skip our workout for the day. This negotiation is different, however, if you know you have a friend or a group of friends expecting you. You may be complaining in the back of your mind, but you’ll pull yourself together and crush the workout because you don’t want to let them down. On days when motivation dwindles, the accountability of being part of a fitness community can make all the difference.

Whitney Fike, a dedicated member of her local fitness group, understands this well.

“My fitness community has become my cornerstone of accountability,” Fike said. “Being able to work out alongside my friends and like-minded individuals motivates me to show up every morning, eager to conquer each class. Knowing I have a scheduled workout with a supportive group ensures I

stay committed to my fitness journey and consistently achieve my goals.”

A SENSE OF BELONGING

Finding a fitness community can be a breath of fresh air in a world that can sometimes feel isolating. The shared struggles and triumphs create an environment where members feel understood and accepted, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Being a part of a fitness family gives a support system celebrating each other’s successes and lifts each other up during challenging times.

Lauren Gaddy certainly feels this about her fitness community.

“During my fitness journey, I have made some of the best friends at the gym. Whether I’ve had a bad week or stressful morning, I know my mood can instantly change the moment I walk into a gym class with my friends. We are all there to work on our best selves, and we have a great time doing so,” Gaddy said.

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ENCOURAGEMENT

The energy within a fitness community is contagious, fueling individual determination and motivation. Encouragement from peers can make all the difference during a challenging workout or when trying to overcome personal obstacles. There’s something about the person next to you

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enduring the same challenge. When complete, a big smile and sweaty high-fives are gratifying. Throughout the room, energy magnifies a job well done.

Working out with others in a supportive environment helps push you into the moment and encourages you to return and do it again daily.

FOSTERING FRIENDLY COMPETITION

Healthy competition within a supportive fitness community can drive personal growth and improvement. Witnessing others excel and progress pushes individuals to surpass their limits, turning each workout into an opportunity for

growth. Seeing friends achieve their fitness goals serves as an inspiration to work harder and reach your own. There is nothing like celebrating each other’s victories. It makes the fitness journey that much more rewarding.

“Friendly competition plays a big part in my community,” said Mallory Wilson, a true believer in the power of a strong fitness community. “Burning more calories or finishing an exercise before your bestie gives you a goal, but also provides some bragging rights at the end of a hard-earned workout.”

DISCOVERING JOY IN FITNESS

Being part of a fitness community can be a lot of fun, too.

Beyond the physical benefits, a fitness community adds an element of camaraderie to the fitness journey. Laughter, shared experiences and lasting friendships are the invaluable rewards of being part of such a community.

With an established sense of community, a gym doesn’t become just a place to work out. It’s where we meet our friends, share laughs and enjoy the journey together. The friendships forged become like a second family.

Finding a supportive fitness community is a transformative step toward better health and well-being. The collective motivation, encouragement and camaraderie within such communities inspire individuals to stay dedicated to their

goals. Whether through unity, the power of accountability or the joy of shared achievements, a fitness community enriches the journey toward a healthier lifestyle.

So, as you lace up your sneakers and head to the gym, consider embracing the power of community, for it is within these connections that you’ll find the strength and support to succeed!

Leah Seacrest is a seasoned fitness industry veteran with 26 years of experience teaching individual and group fitness. Leah is passionate about inspiring people to move and she contributes as a writer for Bella Magazine, co-owns REGYMEN Fitness Pensacola and is corporate vice president of REGYMEN Fitness.

Photo by Getty Images

local fare

Pensacola SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

is a coastal community event

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr. • Photo by Getty Images

For over four and a half delicious decades, the community staple event Pensacola Seafood Festival has brought a host of event goers to downtown Pensacola. Over the weekend of Sept. 29 through Oct. 1, thousands will dine, shop and dive into an ocean of food, art and entertainment throughout Historic Seville Square as well as nearby Fountain and Bartram Parks.

“The Seafood Festival is our largest festival we have,” said Fiesta Pensacola Director of Events Margaret-Anne West. “Around 80,000 people join us over the three-day period.”

In its 46th year, this annual festival is always held at the end of September. And even though Labor Day typically marks the end of summer fun, Pensacola can showcase some incredible (and bearable) weather for a few additional months, lending this time for outstanding outdoor activities.

“It was started to be a reason to get people to Pensacola during what they would call this ‘shoulder season,’” said West. “Obviously, people traditionally come to Pensacola during the summer months, but September is beautiful in Pensacola.”

WANT TO GO?

• What: 46th Annual Pensacola Seafood Festival

• Where: Historic Seville Square, Fountain Park, Bartram Park

• When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday, Sept. 29; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 1

• More information: PensacolaSeafoodFestival.com

In addition to the dozens of food vendors, the Pensacola Seafood Festival also boasts more than 150 artisans and crafters.

Photos provided by Pensacola Seafood Festival

Fiesta Pensacola, also the organizers of Pensacola Crawfish Festival, is responsible for bringing you Pensacola’s favorite food festival year after year. In addition to the determined yet small full-time staff, it takes a whole “school” of committee volunteers to put on Pensacola Seafood Festival, and at the head of the class is chair Brian Morris.

“The committee for the Pensacola Seafood Festival is a large and well-oiled machine. First, this festival is only a success because of the Fiesta staff,” said Morris. “They are an incredible team who are the show’s true stars and make everything happen behind the scenes.”

Morris explained that because of the staff, they also have an excellent committee of over 70 outstanding individuals.

According to Morris, there are several facets to the festival other than dozens of food vendors and over 150 artisans and crafters. Regardless of the number of quicklymoving pieces, Morris’ can-do attitude is guaranteed to make this event another one for the books.

The highlight of Pensacola Seafood Festival, naturally, is the seafood and other coastal fare. Fiesta makes sure these offerings have local flair, and organizers are excited to mention some changes to keep that focus.

“We actually are excited (to announce that we) are revamping the food vendor area this year,” said West. “We

are focusing more on our local food vendors and our local restaurants.”

West describes carrying on the tradition of the wildly successful “Gulf to Table” area at the festival – a portion that showcases extraordinary cuisine by local chefs.

“We’ll have ten Gulf to Table vendors serving smaller sized portions of their signature dishes. They’ll serve those in Fountain Park.”

She said to be on the lookout for some exciting changes along Government and Alcaniz Streets where traditional food vendors have been parked in the past. These changes will elevate the seafood experience as well as provide more participation from local restaurants.

Who loves Pensacola Seafood Festival? According to West, everyone.

“This festival really does have something for everybody,” she said. “If you’re coming for lunch, you’re going to walk to a food vendor and then you’re going to see a beautiful piece of artwork. You may want to buy something for somebody for Christmas, or you’re coming to hear free live music. You may see a new restaurant in Pensacola that you’ve never been to before, but they have a tent set up. So you might be coming for one thing, but rarely are people only doing that one thing.”

With so much to do, the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of

“This festival really does have something for everybody. If you’re coming for lunch, you’re going to walk to a food vendor and then you’re going to see a beautiful piece of artwork… You may see a new restaurant in Pensacola that you’ve never been to before, but they have a tent set up. So you might be coming for one thing, but rarely are people only doing that one thing.”

— Margaret-Anne West, Fiesta Pensacola Director of Events

the festival are arguably a short time to see and experience it all. But these three days have a tremendous and positive impact on tourism according to organizers.

“We have a lot of heads in beds throughout the year between Crawfish Festival, Fiesta Celebration and Seafood Festival,” said West.

Morris also echoes the influence of so many visitors coming to the area to attend events like these.

“The Pensacola Seafood Festival is undoubtedly a weekend locals and out-of-town guests look forward to every year,” he said.

“A great event like this helps boost the local downtown economy. People enjoy coming together outside and enjoying what Pensacola has to offer.”

In addition to the repeat festival goers who make the voyage to Pensacola at the end of September, artisans and vendors, too, have a fierce loyalty to this event. West explains that those individuals who sell their wares, whether crafted completely by hand or skillfully sublimated, really offer something for everyone, and it’s proven by their diehard attendance.

“We are very accepting of all sorts of arts; we have photography, woodwork, gourmet items, jewelry, kids’ items, pet items – we are very open to anybody and everybody,” said West. “We love to have a variety and

we love to have artists come in not only from all over the country, but also be able to showcase our own local artists.”

Are you one of those festival participants who comes to find your favorite artist, possibly to snag a Christmas gift for that one family member who’s impossible to shop for? West explained that a number of vendors and artists have been with the festival for nearly as long as its existence.

“I’m sure there are vendors that have been with us for 40plus years. We get excited to see people buy their Christmas gifts from these vendors every single year. They buy birthday gifts, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, so to have these returning vendors, I think shows not just about the festival itself, but Pensacola as a whole.”

Why do we love festivals so much? Is it being outside, together, to celebrate the city’s strengths? It’s undoubtedly an excellent opportunity to run into that old friend you’ve been meaning to plan lunch with or seeing an artist who was also your 10th grade biology teacher. As it is in many cities, gatherings like these are representative of the community as a whole, and Pensacola is no different.

“As previously mentioned, this festival is a great way to promote tourism and boost our economy, but also allow our community to have fun and enjoy our wonderful city. Pensacola is a fun and unique place to live,” said Morris. “I hope it reminds all to be Pensacola Proud.”

A flurry of LOCAL AUTHORS

By Alice Crann Good • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

So many successful and award-winning local authors exist that it’s impossible to lasso all works for consideration. As soon as you think you are close, publishers release more books by local talent – or someone tells you about another author.

Sure, you can search bookstores and libraries, writer groups such as Emerald Coast Writers and Gulf Coast Authors and online sources, but you quickly learn that local writers support local writers – hence, spreading the word to readers.

“Gosh, it’s so important to support local authors. … I credit local authors for turning me into an award-winning writer,” said Gulf Breeze author Jeannie Zokan, a long-time fan of Emerald Coast Writers.

“My fellow local authors are the reason I was able to be published by a publishing house, Red Adept Publishing.”

Zokan’s novel, “Courage Without Grace,” was the 2022 winner of the National Indie Excellence Awards for New Age Fiction. In 2017, her “The Existence of Pity” was a finalist for NIEA’s Women’s Fiction category. The setting for both novels is Columbia, South America, where Zokan grew up.

Zokan is currently writing a third book.

“The working title of my current manuscript is ‘Accidental Jack.’… Jack wants to be a comedian but runs into hilarious obstacles along the way,” Zokan said. “Is he funny enough to make it big, or will his dad jokes fall flat? Either way, friends and family are there to pick him up – literally.”

— Maghen

Writers write for all sorts of reasons. Some, like Zokan, simply write because they “love writing,” while others write to amuse, inspire, educate, encourage, help others, leave a legacy, etc.

“I’m so lucky to call myself a Pensacola author,” said Maghen Gardner. “Supporting local authors helps foster creativity, encouragement and a stronger community.

When Gardner, a teacher and social worker with the Escambia County School District, started writing her children’s book “Spread Kindness Everywhere,” she said she had two main goals in mind.

“My hope was to teach children different ways that they can spread kindness, but also to shed light on a wonderful local nonprofit, Manna Food Bank. Giving back to the community has always been extremely important to me, and I am thrilled that I was able to create a children’s book that helped support that mission,” said Gardner, who held a fundraiser/book signing at Bodacious Bookstore & Café.

Some of the proceeds from each book will be donated to Manna, Gardner explained.

“My hope was to teach children different ways that they can spread kindness, but also to shed light on a wonderful local nonprofit, Manna Food Bank. Giving back to the community has always been extremely important to me, and I am thrilled that I was able to create a children’s book that helped support that mission.”

Gardner

Award-winning author Jeannie Zokan said it’s wonderful when writers remember how important it is to “write for yourself.” The novelist said when this becomes clear, it is “great,” and you become a different person, a new friend to yourself.

TOP: Maghen Gardner is donating some of the proceeds from her children’s book to the local Manna Food Bank. ABOVE: Anita Lesko’s cookbook shares her battle with diabetes and includes a guide for others to begin a journey to good health. The recipes are quick and simple. The award-winning author’s story about plant-based diets reversing diabetes was featured in Woman’s World Magazine.

UNCOVERING LOCAL BOOKS

Our local literary community offers books for everyone – in genres galore. This is a limited list of what’s out there. Some books you can find via book groups (such as Gulf Coast Authors), bookstores and Amazon. com. Have fun finding more!

ACTION ADVENTURE

• “Veil of Deception,” “The Right to Know,” “Surly Bonds,” “Retribution” by Michael Byars Lewis

• “A Time for Revenge” by Rick Garrett

• “The Pilate Scroll” by M.B. Lewis

CHILDREN

• “Goodnight Pensacola,” “P is for Pelican, The ABCs of Pensacola” by Anna Whibbs Theriault

• “Coloring Book, Pensacolor, Pensacola Landmarks” by T.S. Dobson

• “The Boy Who Jumped to The Moon” by Susy Dianderas

• “Dream Big Little One,” “Ben Bear is Afraid” by Vicki Shankwitz

• “Spread Kindness Everywhere” by Maghen Gardner

• “The Bible Alphabet” by Drexel Gilbert

• “Betsy the Bookworm’s Book Revolution,” “Betsy the Bookworm & Books to the Rescue,” “Betsy the Bookworm and The Case of The Missing Bookcase,” Betsy the Bookworm and The Spanish Lessons” by Alice Crann Good

• “Four Friends, One Goes Missing,” “Four Friends, Being Different is OK,” “Four Friends, The Bully,” “Four Friends, The Stranger” by Rick Garrett

COOKBOOKS

• “Some Like It South,” “By Invitation Only: Artful Entertaining, Southern Style” by Junior League of Pensacola

• “A Food Revolution: How the Plant-Based Lifestyle Can Win the Global War on Diabetes, Obesity and Heart Disease” by Anita Lesko

FICTION

• “Courage Without Grace,” “The Existence of Pity” by Jeannie Zokan

• “Out of Ireland” by Marian O’Shea Wernicke

• “Native Moments,” “Panhandlers” by Nic Schuck

HISTORY

• “Cottage Charm in Historic Seville, Treasures of Pensacola’s Historic District” by Sharon Duplantis

• “Historic Pensacola” by John J. Clune Jr. and Margo S. Stringfield

• “Growing Up in Pensacola,” “Growing Up in Pensacola II” by Charlie Davis

• “Remembering Pensacola” by Jacqueline Tracy Wilson

• “War Stories,” “The Crazy Ones Shot Film,” “Standoff in the Caribbean” by Art Giberson

• “Where the Squirrels Run” by Henry Raddoff

MYSTERY

• “Art Attack,” “Killing the Past,” “Blood Ties,” “Deadly Ties” by Janice Ryan Hall

POETRY

• “A Treasure of Poetry,” “Open Your Mind, Open Your Heart,” “Pay Attention to Your Life,” “Living Life with Conscious Intention” by W. Marie Giles

• “All Hands Lost” by Laura Juliet Wood

• “The Treasures of Pensacola Beach II, New and Selected Poems and Stories” by Patricia Taylor Edmisten

SCIENCE FICTION

• “Sue,” “Servant of the Gods” by Bruce Graner

“In writing this book, I wanted to create a positive narrative and room for conversation for children and their parents and families to discuss how we, as a society, can be more kind to one another.”

It doesn’t get much better than this for a local writer, or any writer.

Dr. Neal Barnard, founder/president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and adjunct professor at George Washington University School of Medicine, wrote the forward for Pensacola author Anita Lesko’s most recent book, “A Food Revolution: How the Plant-Based Lifestyle Can Win the Global War on Diabetes, Obesity and Heart Disease.”

“This is an immensely practical guide for anyone who would like to put the power of nutrition to work and regain good health. I believe you will find this information to be life-changing,” Bernard’s forward reads.

It all started in 2017, when Lesko, a top-tier medical professional and certified registered nurse anesthetist for several decades, learned she had type 2 diabetes.

“I wrote a book about my journey, which included a step-by-step guide for others to follow to begin their own journey to good health,” Lesko said.

She said she included quick and simple recipes to help people get started.

“I don’t see it as a diet but instead a lifestyle. My story was even included in a feature article in Woman’s World magazine about plant-based diets reversing diabetes.”

Lesko’s literary accomplishments also include The Temple Grandin Literary Award from the Autism Society of America for her book “The Complete Guide to Autism & Healthcare.” She was diagnosed with autism as an adult.

In addition to writing about her health experiences, Lesko stays busy creating allnatural, vegan soap and body products via her online company Hammock Bay Soap. You can catch her Saturdays at Palafox Market South.

Spontaneously influencing others with her contagious, energetic, positive style, Zokan summed it up with two simple sentences.

“It’s all about the long game,” she said. “Always be open to the next opportunity.”

girls night out

Jane’s Custom Cookies

Bakes up a delicious girls’ night

By Lisa Player • Photos by Lisa Player and Jane Connor

Have you ever wished you could decorate beautiful cookies like the pros? This fall would be the perfect time to bring your cookie-decorating skills to the next level with a cookie class by Jane’s Custom Cookies.

Jane Connor, business owner and cookie pro, will come to your location with all the supplies necessary for six to eight guests to learn basic and more advanced techniques such as outlining, flooding, layering, highlighting and more. Each participant will get six premade cookies in the chosen theme to decorate (then share or eat as desired), premixed royal icing in your favorite color palette, pro tools to use in the process and recipes to take with you. Expect a class to take about three hours.

If you think you’ll never learn, think again! Connor’s excellent demonstration and detailed explanations can make a cookie pro out of the least artistic students. Once you master the basics, you’ll likely want to forge ahead with your own artistic inspiration.

“Prepare to be amazed! Amazed what you will find out you CAN do,” Connor promised.

Jane Connor can help any novice be more like a pro cookie decorator in one class (dogs excluded). Vanessa Welch and Katie Player made giraffes, birds and flowers in a pastel color palette with Connor’s expert guidance.

She is constantly upping her game by learning new techniques to improve her craft.

“There are so many ways to learn, from in-person classes to online tutorials, and groups on social media for cookie decorators that are (designed for) beginners to professionals,” she said. “I love taking new classes online by some of my favorite ‘cookiers.’ There is always something new to learn.”

Connor has operated a cookie business out of her Gulf Breeze home for a few years, but she said her business has actually evolved her whole life. She was a military spouse and is the mother of three grown children.

“I always made cookies. At my old job, I would bring them in during the holidays, and then people started asking for them,” she explained.

They were so popular that a friend suggested she

should start taking orders, so she did. Her business grew from there, and she really had time to perfect it during the COVID shutdown.

Now making custom cookies is her only job, and Connor has had quite a few interesting orders.

“Once, I sent 80 cookies by plane to the Pentagon for a high-ranking senior advisor,” she said.

She’s done cookies for graduations, retirements, birthdays and all kinds of other celebrations.

If you want the cookies without the effort, you can just place an order with Jane’s Custom Cookies by going to her Facebook page and sending a message. She is working on a website right now to streamline cookie orders and class scheduling. Ordering details (ingredients, pricing, etc.) and more photos of what she offers can also be found there.

Connor has created masterpieces of cookie art for everything from birthdays to retirements to college celebrations. Each order is custom designed to be unique and special for the occasion.

For more information, to place an order or schedule a class, visit Jane’s Custom Cookies on facebook. com.

local fare

Get ready to slay the runway at downtown Pensacola’s “Art of Fashion”

GALLERY NIGHT

By Magi Thomley Williams

Hey fashionistas, the most fabulous event of the year is almost here, and you won’t want to miss it. Gallery Night’s “Art of Fashion” is hitting downtown Pensacola with a bang, and we’ve got all the details on what to expect. So, grab your besties and get ready to immerse yourself in a world where art and fashion collide.

Sponsored in style by Zarzaur Law, P.A., Bella Magazine and Publix, this Gallery Night promises to be an unforgettable experience. Think one-of-a-kind work by local designers and the trendiest fall and winter fashions from favorite downtown Pensacola boutiques. An army of vignettes, photo booths and models sashaying along Palafox will keep energy and excitement high throughout the evening. As always, Gallery Night will present food trucks, music, local artist kiosks and more.

But that’s not all – A Different Swag is bringing high energy and high fashion to the runway with their exclusive showcase of local fashion designers. Get ready to be wowed as models strut their stuff in unique clothing designs that celebrate the bond between the creator and the model.

Calling all aspiring designers!

The Pensacola Project Runway Design Competition is your chance to shine. The theme, “From Sand to Sassy,” will inspire you to create two dazzling looks

that will turn heads. And the cherry on top? The winning designer will be featured in a Bella Magazine 2024 issue – talk about a game-changer.

If you’re wondering who the lucky winner will be, don’t fret. We’ve got local celebrity fashion expert judges who will be critiquing, judging and announcing the winner during the “Art of Fashion” Gallery Night event on Friday, Sept. 15.

But the fashion fiesta doesn’t end there. The “Fall into Fashion” runway show will keep the style party going strong. Not only will the event be showcasing the winning designer’s fabulous creations, but also be celebrating local upcycled fashion as art. Talk about sustainable chic.

And here’s the grand finale: The unveiling of the Legal Graffiti spray-painted wedding dress donated by in-kind sponsor, Two Times A Lady Boutique. It’s going to be a jaw-dropping showstopper that will leave attendees in awe.

So, mark your calendars, fashionistas!

Gallery Night’s “Art of Fashion” is a notto-be-missed event that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world with your newfound swagger. Designers, get your applications in for the Pensacola Project Runway Design Competition at gallerynightpensacola.org before the Aug. 15 deadline. Reach out to boardmember@ gallerynightpensacola.org with any questions.

We’ll see you on the runway!

food & drink

Atlas Oyster House REOPENS WITH NEW LOOK AND MENU

By Brittany Misencik,

Journal

Pensacola’s Fish House has received recognition from all around the world with direct views of Pensacola Bay, walls lined with photographs of celebrities that have eaten there, and the worldfamous dish: the Grits a Ya Ya.

While The Fish House tends to be the go-to recommendation for out-oftowners, its next-door neighbor, sister restaurant Atlas Oyster House, was its more casual counterpart for the locals to score cheap oysters or order a Fish House signature without the wait time. The restaurant has been closed since the COVID pandemic, but the time was used to breathe new life into the space.

Now, with Atlas’ interior makeover complete and a brand-new menu to complement it developed by executive chef Jason Hughes – Atlas has been reimagined and taken on a new identity since it was first birthed into Pensacola in 1998. With elevated small plates, entrees, cocktails, handcrafted sushi rolls, seafood towers and an expansive oyster program at the local, national and global level, Atlas plans to give the Fish House a run for its money as a premiere dining destination.

“We kind of envisioned a tennis match between the restaurants,” Hughes said. “We want to do it really well. We want to make it better than the Fish House, then we want to go and make the Fish House better than this. We want this rivalry always between the two sides of the building.”

“I think the oyster program – I hope it turns out to be something really neat and unique for the area,” Hughes said.

They plan to always have a diverse

variety of oyster offerings from Pensacola, across the country and around the world. Hughes also plans to experiment with serving oysters in different ways, including six different varieties of baked oysters and unique recipes like oyster shooters served in shot glasses with the house bloody mary mix and a citrus beer topper.

When you walk into present-day Atlas, you’re met with rich sapphireblue booths, pearl-shaped dangling lights, deep-stained wood and potentially the most special feature of all, framed photographs spotlighting Pensacola’s fishing history.

The space is intended to capture the old-world fishing enchantment captured in Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea,” but with a taste of elevated elegance, according to Maria Goldberg, Great Southern Restaurants’ director of marketing, public relations and events.

“It does not look anything like it used to. Sort of. The layout is still the same, but a lot of changes. We’re still Atlas and we’re still an oyster bar,” Goldberg said.

No longer will Atlas be the overflow space if the line at the Fish House runs too long, but a cozy hideaway from a day out at sea.

“What we want to do is make (Atlas) her own self and special so that people will want to make the place a destination,” Goldberg said.

Now, Atlas infuses modern decor, like the “The World is Your Oyster” neon sign with relics from the past including a display case of old-time fishing collectible bobbers.

Hughes worked hand-in-hand with

Goldberg’s vision to design a menu that curated an elevated experience for guests.

“You can see it when you walk through the dining room is kind of taking something old and familiar and making it new, trying to kind of capture what made it special in the first place, and then just making it more unique,” Hughes said. “For us, for the menu, we were really inspired by the breezy, New England oyster bar. I lived in Boston for four or five years and it’s so cool because the two places are so different, but they’re so similar … that’s how it began as a city, the major industry was seafood.”

Hughes takes guests on an uncharted ride of unique flavors in every plate’s finishing touches – from the brandy-brie cream of the shrimp and crab nachos to the savory NOLA barbecue butter that bathes the barbecue shrimp, to the balsamic dressed greens and touch of truffle honey in the Magic Mushrooms small plate – but he still makes a few subtle nods to the Fish House next door.

“One of the things that I said kind of all along in this project was I wanted this place to be separate and distinct from The Fish House to motivate people to want to come to both locations,” Hughes said. “I didn’t want a single corn grit in this side of the building.”

The Girl Next Door entrée on Atlas’ menu is the exception and plays off that idea of Hughes trying his hand at the Grits a Ya Ya. Don’t be mistaken, it’s not a copycat version, but the dish reimagined. With the jumbo Gulf shrimp still serving as the center-point, the dish is composed of light and creamy stone-

Pensacola News

| Photos by Tony Giberson, Pensacola News Journal

ground brie rice grits, roasted local corn, tomato, house-smoked tasso ham and lemon leek cream.

The Oysters a Ya Ya, an Atlas baked oyster dish, is a spin a little closer to the original, topped with roasted mushroom, spinach, applewood bacon, white wine and smoked Gouda gratin which fuel the original’s distinct flavor.

Each menu item is designed to feel approachable, but with intricate flavor touches that make them unlike anything else. The small plates in particular are meant to be ordered, shared and experienced.

“It’s still very much a part of that idea is to sit down and order many things and that shared dining experience with the people you’re with, your friends, your family, whoever. Just a lot of stuff for the table,” Hughes said.

Hughes said he wants to be known as an “honest” restaurant, one where

the quality is evident in every detail, whether it be by the hand cured meats or house-pickled jalapenos.

In the duck Reuben, for example, the house made duck pastrami is brined for up to two days before being smoked, then layered with ham choucroute, Havarti cheese, creole remoulade atop Emerald Coast Bread Co. sour rye and served with crispy fries.

Aside from the wide array of small plates to snack on, such as the burnt Brussels glazed with bourbon and topped with spiced Renfroe pecans or the firecracker calamari complimented by a creamy orange-chili sauce, mango slaw and coconut lemongrass vinaigrette, Hughes has crafted a variety of full-blown entrees to choose from.

The Low Country Pork Chop, Roasted Chicken, Clams & Bucatini, Pepper-Crusted Filet Mignon, Cornmeal-Dusted Gulf Shrimp and

Crispy Gulf Coast Oysters comprise his inaugural entree list.

Regardless of what the dish is, the focus is on freshness.

“I just love the access we have to fresh seafood. I think it’s the best in the country, if not the world,” Hughes said. “There isn’t anything too crazy here (on the menu,) but we’re definitely focusing on the ingredients, the fresh seafood, everything is super technique driven here … all these things we can do to just take those fresh ingredients and deliver them in the freshest and most craftdriven way possible.”

More updates and information can be found on the Atlas Oyster House Facebook page or by calling the restaurant at 850-437-1961.

This story is courtesy of the Pensacola News Journal. To subscribe, visit www. subscribe.pnj.com/offers.

Great Southern Restaurants reopened the Atlas Oyster Bar in July with revamped décor and new dishes like Girl Next Door (left) and The Stack of fried green tomatoes (far left).

You might be from Pensacola if… her perspective

It’s been 30 years since Jeff Foxworthy’s “You Might Be a Redneck If…” album peaked at number 38 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified triple platinum. Nope, I’m not gonna steal any of his redneck jokes. But imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?

You might be from Pensacola if…

Your fly swatter matches your kitchen décor.

You don’t complain about the weather. You complain about downtown parking.

You know how to correctly pronounce Bobe Street.

You have a friend that exclaims, “My lands!” when she is startled.

You sit downstairs at Peg Leg’s. (Only tourists wait hours for upstairs.)

You save your bacon grease, aka Vitamin G, in a peanut can in the freezer. To cook with, of course.

You swap picking rights with your neighbors. My neighbor lets me pick her beautiful hydrangeas if I let her pick our figs

Your friends have satsuma trees, and they share with you –your winter holiday memories include fresh-squeezed satsuma juice.

Many of your friends have double names: Sarah Grace, Lucy Ann, Mary Margaret, Mary Claire, Mary Elizabeth, Mary Alex, Peter James, John Paul, John Brewer…

You don’t call your grandfather Grandpa. Nope, you call him Pawpaw, Granpappy, Big Daddy, Pappy, Pops, Bubba or Buddy Bob.

You refer to B. T. Washington High School as the new one.

All your favorite restaurants are closed on Sunday.

You plan your summer vacations around the Blue Angels show. (You never have to check a schedule – you know it’s always the Saturday after the Fourth of July.)

You try not to go out of town the first two weeks in June. Because Fiesta.

You pronounce Bayou Texar: BIyO Tihar.

Wright Street is named after your husband’s great

grandmother Mary Ethel.

You know that Cactus Flower is in the old TG&Y building. You bought your penny candy there.

You know of a few secret free parking spots downtown, but you don’t dare tell anyone.

You know Joe Patti will steam your shrimp for you. (When you go to a potluck, you ask the hostess if somebody already has dibs on bringing Joe Patti shrimp.) Also, you know that Joe Patti sells the best French baguette in town – you buy 10 frozen ones every time you go.

When you make gumbo, you like your roux to be the color of café au lait, not espresso. Seems like the closer you get to New Orleans, the darker the roux.

You keep a closet full of old, stained towels. In case the next hurricane rips part of your roof off and fills your house with two inches of water before your husband can get a tarp up there. Last time you had to use all the good towels to sop up that nasty water. That closet full of old towels gives you peace of mind.

You know the difference between a water oak and a live oak, thanks to hurricanes. Water oaks fall on your house. (See towels in closet, above.)

You text your beach friends or family to find out the Gulf conditions before you make the 20-minute drive to go swimming. (Is it clear today? Jellyfish? How much seaweed? Stingy things? How strong is the current?) You may change your plans based on the answers.

You need a quote from the mayor for a story, and he responds the same day.

At the beginning of each school year, you inform your children which of their classmates are their cousins to prevent any cousin crushes. (Full disclosure, one of Foxworthy’s jokes was, “You might be a redneck if…your family tree doesn’t fork.” Cheers to lots of forks, folks!)

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.