Bella Magazine March 2023

SPRING into action

First responders are community advocates while saving lives; colorful spring style; pick up a pickleball game; enjoy an afternoon sail on Southern Star.

“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

from the editor

I could sit here and give you my thoughts on the month of March or any of the great stories in this issue of Bella (there really are some great ones). But to be honest, all I can think about right now is my newly adopted puppy Finn.

I am so in love!

It’s been about 19 years since I’ve had a puppy and I forgot a lot – how often they go to the bathroom, how often they need to eat, how hard they play, how hard they sleep and how they like to chew anything and everything.

But mainly I forgot how much your heart grows. I not only am head over in heels in love with this puppy, I also love everything and everybody around me even more. I’m not sure, however, that my close friends and family are loving the daily barrage of puppy photos.

Back to Bella, though.

How gorgeous is this cover?! I think it is stunning and it is the result of the work of several women – the model Brandi Wallace, fashion stylist Allison McCrory, clothes by Ciao Bella Boutique, photographer Kate Treick, art director Betsy Meyer and artist Cindy Mathis, who created the mural on the outside of Fiore.

Amazing things happen when women come together.

I saw that in action when I attended the Pensacola Chamber’s AlltogetHER women’s conference led by Carol Carlan in the beginning of February. It was an impactful day of women coming together to hear from community leaders while connecting, collaborating and cultivating relationships. I walked away with several helpful ideas –not just for business, but for life. And when I met another woman in publishing, instead of looking at me as a competitor, she hugged me. That’s what it’s all about! We can be competitive and tear each other down, or we can build each other up.

Let’s always choose to build each other up.

— 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, Kelly MacLeod, Allison McCrory, Leslie Peck, Leah Seacrest, Magi Thomley Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lakesha Davis, Kate Treick

On the cover: Brandi Meriweather Wallace models Butterfly sleeve front-tie crop kimono with matching wide-leg high-waisted palazzo pants by Skies are Blue. Find out more on Page 10.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

spendorsave

Velvet “Paityn” quilted jacket, $339, Velvet-Tees.com.

Alice + Olivia “Katherina” dress, $550, Nordstrom.com.

EF Collection single pearshaped diamond, double-stud earring, $625, Nordstrom. com.

Isabel Marant fauxshearling bucket hat, $365, ModaOperandi.com.

BY SLOANE STEPHENS COX / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED

Quilted jacket, $64.99, HM.com.

Fringe-trimmed dress, $64.99, HM.com.

Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry “Romina” earrings, $132, Shopbop.com.

Lack of Color “Shore” hat, $129, LackOfColor.com.

fashion

Sweeping Spring Style

Longer days & wide-open fashion

By Allison McCrory • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

From beach-to-bar sets to strictly business suits, from long to short, from bright to saturated pastel, spring trends offer it all!

With the promise of warm weather, look for sheer fabrics and matching sets that can transition from the shore to an evening out. Bright, solid colors and more intense pastels are showing up big as we emerge from winter.

In the spirit of spring, look for “body baring silhouettes,” forecasted Heather Stevens, owner of Ciao Bella Boutique and Salon on Cervantes in Pensacola. “Cutouts on dresses and tops are a big trend.”

Footwear trends offer a gamut of variety as well. Look for mid-heel mules, sneakers, Mary Jane flats, puff slides, ’90s flatforms and platforms, bling buckles and tied-up designs.

Get springy in shaped sunglasses, layered beaded necklaces, colorful statement earrings, woven bucket hats, mini handbags and for the boldest of bold – body and belly chains!

Shopping list: A pretty print peasant blouse by Glam ($34) paired with white denim frayed flare jeans by Gilli ($55) embrace spring’s palette yet offer the coverage demanded by the fickle March days.

Shopping list: Feathers are flying high this spring! Join the flock in a pure white feather fringe midi dress with side slit by Le Lis ($49). The look can be interpreted in a classy monochromatic style or get creative by adding a pop of spring color via accessories.

Brandi Meriweather Wallace

Brandi Meriweather Wallace embodies the spirit of spring.

The Pensacola native loves the season’s vision of fresh inspiration and pursuits in fashion and life.

Among her areas of new growth is a plan to use the camera her husband recently gifted her to create a digital diary of her big, beloved family.

“I think this might be the year for me to start that,” said the graduate of West Florida High School and the University of West Florida, whose Filipino grandparents settled in Pensacola after her grandfather retired from the Navy. Her mother grew up in Pensacola and met Wallace’s father here, where they in turn raised their daughters, whose extended families socialize together regularly.

Wallace makes the most of all her hometown has to offer.

“I love a good coffee or brunch at the local hot spots. I also enjoy planning our families’ activities, which usually involve attending all of the local, annual events and festivals. My favorite event to be a part of every year is Hangout Music fest,” said Wallace. “I like to travel, but I’m a weekender girl. I like staying close to home, so we frequently visit the surrounding cities like Gulf Shores, Destin, Fairhope and Biloxi for day trips or weekends. That’s a big reason I love Pensacola. We are neighbors to so many fun cities.”

Amateur detective work also stirs Wallace’s soul.

“My favorite pastime is going to escape rooms and murder mystery dinners. Ahh, I love the thrill of playing detective!”

Wallace doesn’t just embrace activities – she relishes fashion trends as well. Her current favorite is matching sets. Jackets have woven their way into her fashion heart, as have everyone’s shoe of choice – sneakers.

“I have at least two or three different styled jackets in my car with me at all times,” said Wallace, who manages Ciao Bella Boutique and Salon as well as supporting her husband’s business, Champion Construction.

Shopping list: Beach-to-bar sets are a hot trend this spring. Wear this whimsical set in verdant Kelly green over a swimsuit at the beach or pool, then transition to an evening out with simplicity. Butterfly sleeve front-tie crop kimono with matching wide-leg, high-waisted palazzo pants by Skies are Blue, $77.

Shopping list: Pink is the queen of colors this season, so indulge your femininity and take the pink plunge with this surplice wrap romper by Glam ($42) – easy to dress up or down as the occasion demands.

About The Location Fiore of Pensacola, 405 S. K St., Pensacola; 850-469-1930; fioreofpensacola.com.

Hair & Makeup

Dawn Hamil of 10th Avenue Hair Designs, 1000 East Cervantes St., Pensacola; 850-433-5207; 10thavenuehair.com; IG@dawn_ at_10th_avenue.

Clothes Compliments of Ciao Bella Boutique, 3014 E. Cervantes St., Suite B, Pensacola; 850-748-5787; shopthebella.com.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Shopping list: Mixing textures is getting air time this spring. Try your hand with this texture-rich outfit, perfect for March on the Gulf Coast. Pair this Glam high-low bell sleeved cream sweater ($39) with taupe Le Lis sweater shorts featuring leather detailing ($32).

stylingthe shoot

Photography: Kate Treick Photography / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory

Where to shop: Ciao Bella Boutique

Pave glass bangle bracelet by Golden Stella, $22. Octagon hoops, $12.

Leaf shaped earrings by Golden Stella, $19.

Resin stretchy bracelet by Golden Stella, $18.

Clear beaded gold chain double layer necklace with gold pendant, adjustable length by Golden Stella, $19.

Gold textured hoops, $12.

Geometric pattern earrings by Golden Stella, $18.

Fuchsia and Lavender crystal drop earrings by Golden Stella, $18.

Cat eye shaped tortoise sunglasses with rose tint by Rheos, $65.

Square-toe sandals by Ccocci, $24.

Multi-colored backpack with leather flap and magnetic snap closure by Mimi Wholesale, $59.

Ring by Golden Stella, $12. Summer straw beach hat with Aztec banded print and frayed trim by Mimi Wholesale, $22.

Clear and faux leather crossbody with detachable gold chain shoulder strap by Mimi Wholesale, $34.

Rattan pinch lock handbag by Mimi wholesale, $63.

FACE & BODY OILS

By Leslie Peck

I grew up with very oily skin and you could not have paid me a million dollars to put oil on my face. I’m sure I spent a small fortune on blot papers and powders trying to matte my shiny T-zone through the years. I remember the first time I tried an oil cleanser years ago. I waited for the breakouts to happen, and my wait was long. It never did.

Making your way into using oils on a regular basis can give you the hydration you need to balance your skin’s sebum production and create just the right amount of radiant, natural glow. Some oils are used best in their raw form and some as ingredients within skincare.

CLEANSING WITH OIL

When we wash our face, good and bad oils are stripped from the skin. Oil cleansers interact with the existing oils to remove the bad and keep the good. Oils are great for removing makeup, breaking down pigments and waterresistant products.

HYDRATING WITH OIL

Oils soak into the skin almost immediately, creating a protective barrier against free radicals and

providing a smooth surface to apply makeup. The lipophilic properties of oils lock in the moisture to heal and soothe while strengthening the skin.

ACNE AND OILY SKIN

Face oils used on acne or very oily skin have anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory properties to help calm breakouts and redness while healing, protecting, nourishing and balancing the skin. The first instinct with oily skin is to strip away all of the oil to dry it out. This will only cause the skin to produce more sebum causing clogged pores and unfavorable results. Cleaning and moisturizing with noncomedogenic oils will improve the skin’s appearance and texture.

If you have severe skin irritation or acne, always consult your dermatologist or aesthetician before adding different products in your skincare routine. Consider the oils you use on your skin. It is best to find pure, high-grade ingredients when trying something new, especially on your face. Face and body oils are not the same as essentials oils. Essential oils are much more potent and need to be diluted with a carrier oil. Oils do not protect against sun damage. Always use SPF when going out into the sun.

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.

HELPFUL OILS

• Tea Tree. Use to spot treat comedones and reduce irritation.

• Grapeseed. Lightweight, anti-aging, wound healing and full of antioxidants, recommended for acne and oily skin.

• Marula. Full of antioxidants and microbial properties, light and smooth to use under makeup.

• Argan. Can be used on hair, skin and nails, it is lightweight and full of vitamin E and healing properties; safe for eczema, rosacea and oily skin.

• Camillia. Stimulates collagen to help with fine lines and wrinkles, safe for oily skin.

• Coconut. On the heavier side of the oils, best for dry skin, very effective to lock in moisture on hair, nails and skin.

• Rosehip Seed. Rich in vitamins E, C and D, best for anti-aging, helps to reduce dark spots and scars.

• Jojoba. Because this oil is the most similar to the sebum in our skin, it can help balance oil production and reduce acne.

• Almond. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, good for dry, sensitive skin.

Get the support you need with…

SPORTS BRAS

By Leah Seacrest

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

GET THIS!! Did you know that women rank breasts as the fourth largest barrier to participating in physical activity? Cue your sports bra to the rescue!

Perhaps your sports bra is a simple fashion statement, or it just might be your most coveted piece of equipment needed to support your active lifestyle. No matter your activity level – avid gym goer or athleisure fan – it’s important that you have the right kind of bra for your activity.

It’s important to add some context as to why the sports bra you buy matters. Breasts are composed of tissue mainly supported by just the skin and fragile ligaments called Cooper’s ligaments, which naturally stretch as we get older. Your breasts require extra support during repetitive or high impact activity and can stretch up to two centimeters during highimpact workouts, possibly causing pain and discomfort.

The largest predictor of breast pain with exercise is breast size, with a larger cup being at higher risk for pain. After cup size, the next most influential factor in pain is breast movement. Studies have shown similar degrees of movement of the breast tissue with different running paces, from jogging to sprinting. It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you go, proper support is a must!

Not only are improperly supported breasts painful, it can also cause you to alter your biomechanics while running. Women will subconsciously alter their arm swing in order to prevent breast

movement. This can cause other areas to become painful such as the shoulders, neck, and upper back.

Not all sports bras serve every function. While an avid runner may need a bra with proper support for the repetitive movements of running, someone doing Pilates or yoga will need one allowing for more flexibility. Depending on your activity level and body shape, there are different styles and types to choose from.

Sports bras can range in quality and price, so before deciding on what sports bra is right for your activity, make sure you do your research as their function and fit can vary from brand to brand. A trip to a retailer that offers a few different brands, as well as personal sizing, is worth the trip.

Luckily, over time the need for more research and development in the sports bra industry has been realized. There are many styles to choose from.

We would also recommend looking out for the type of bras that have moisture wicking technology, ventilation and microfiber fabrics to keep you comfortable throughout your workout.

Next time you are on the market for a new sports bra, make sure you take the time to consider the support you require. Your choice could make a huge difference in your daily activity.

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.

Here are some key things you should consider when investing in your next one:

• Support - Your sports bra should feel much tighter and more supportive than your regular bra. Proper sizing is key. Try jumping around or mimicking the activity you will perform when you try one on to see how much bounce there may be. Other features include hook and zippers for added security.

• Band - The band of your sports bra should be snug and fit level around your torso. Bands come in different widths adding comfort and support. If desired, some brands carry sports bras with underwire for reinforcement.

• Straps - There should be about a one-inch give and the strap should not fall off your shoulders or dig in. Several brands have constructed strap design such as crisscross-style so straps stay more securely in place without falling. Other styles use the straps for a fashion statement, giving little value to overall support however they may be great for lighter impact activities for those with a smaller bust.

• Cup - Your breasts should fill the entire cup with no bulging over the top. Sizing can come in cup sizes which adds support for medium to high impact activity or lightly lined for lighter activity.

• Comfort - This is the most important thing: even though your sports bra should be tight, it should also be really comfortable.

• Fabric - Dependent upon it’s use, look for bras made of moisture wicking material.

Handful The Fav Bra, Looker in Navy Camo, $57.99.

causes

Pick a bowl and feed many!

Want to provide 30 healthy meals to neighbors in need while sampling soups from some of Pensacola’s premier eateries? And take home a locally handcrafted one-of-a-kind bowl?

One of Pensacola’s favorite events for one of its most cherished nonprofits offers just that opportunity.

Manna Food Bank’s Clover Pick a Bowl Fill a Bowl will be held on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, at Pensacola State College.

The fundraiser couldn’t come at a better time.

LOCAL HUNGER INCREASING

“Last year, Manna served 69,095 hungry neighbors in need in Northwest Florida. That’s 122 percent more than the previous year,” said DeDe Flounlacker, Manna executive director.

She explained that while some of that increase includes programs expanding food access for children, it also points to more and more local food insecurity.

Historically, the northwest counties of Florida have more hunger than much of the state and nation. And with record inflation and increasing grocery, utility and housing costs, the need for help obtaining food is stronger than ever.

In fact, grocery costs increased almost 12 percent from December

2021 to December 2022. As a result, 30 percent of American children were not eating enough last year because it was unaffordable, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

“We do not anticipate it to slow down soon,” added Flounlacker, who has led Manna for eleven-and-a-half years.

Celebrating 40 years in operation in 2023, Manna has no national affiliation and is dependent on local support. For

14 years, Pick a Bowl Fill a Bowl has served as a creative way to help build the agency’s community coffers.

“The Clover Pick a Bowl Fill a Bowl is a unique fundraiser with an artsy twist featuring the work of local artists and the fare of local vendors,” Flounlacker said.

VOLUNTEERS ARE THE LIFEBLOOD

The event is a festive culmination of

Story & photo by Allison McCrory

many hours of volunteerism.

Local artists, including members of Pensacola State College’s visual arts department and First City Art Center, have been shaping clay into one-ofkind bowls for months.

“It gives our artists a sense of being part of a larger effort for those in need while strengthening our art community at the same time,” said Ben Twingley of First City.

PSC’s work is an annual effort launched by the late Bill Clover, who taught ceramics at the college for more than half a century and created thousands of bowls for the event. After he passed, the popular event took on his name.

Of course, those beautiful bowls need filling and that’s where the local restaurants come in. Every year, they tap into their culinary genius

WANT TO GO?

• WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m., March 17

• WHERE: Pensacola State College Lou Ross Center, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola

• COST & MORE INFO: Pre-sale tickets are available for $50 at mannahelps.org; day-of tickets are $60

to concoct unique soup recipes for event-goers. Then they get to work chopping, sautéing, seasoning, simmering, packing, transporting and serving – all as a donation to the community. At press time, Manna staff was still recruiting restaurants but already on board were The Grand Marlin, Classic City Catering, The Farm and Scenic Hills Country Club to name a few.

cover story

FIRST RESPONDERS SPRING INTO ACTION

“I love that every day you go into work, it’s different every single day. I’m an adrenaline junkie.”

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

— Paramedic Ashley Davis

Call them what you will –first-responders, heroes, life-savers – but there’s one thing these brave women and men do when putting on their uniforms, and it’s recognizing their role as community advocates. That’s because they are serving in the community in which they live, work and play, and this is often what drives them to their life of service.

There’s not often a day we go without seeing and hearing emergency vehicles responding to incidents. Ambulances rushing to a lifethreatening automobile accident or patrol cars racing to a domestic violence call are all too common, making us thankful for individuals willing to risk their own lives for those of the community.

“My family is military, so I’ve always admired the (saying) ‘taking care of home.’ I just wanted to take care of the home I’m actually living in, the people that I’m surrounded by every day,” said Pensacola Police Department officer Bianca Malden.

Malden began her career with PPD as a part time cadet in 2017, splitting her time between the department and the police academy. She said that path gave her the opportunity to gain insight into a myriad of law enforcement

“A lot of people are surprised when they see me, saying things like, ‘that’s a woman police officer.’ I think people are a lot more relaxed with females and more open to talk, in my opinion.”

— Pensacola Police Department officer Bianca Malden

aspects.

“That’s why I chose PPD. I heard a lot of good things, but when you come in as a cadet or do ride-alongs prior to (entering the force), you get to see and experience the environment before actually going in all the way,” she said.

One of those aspects is her and fellow officers’ sense of community. Let’s face it, no matter the circumstance, nefarious or not, seeing a marked patrol car arrive at your location isn’t always met with elation. But Malden is quick to dispel any negative or intimidating perception of uniformed police officers.

“Sometimes it’s hard for people to see beyond the badge and the uniform,” she said. “You just need to meet them where they are.”

Incidentally, being a female police officer does garner more specific, subdued reactions from citizens.

“A lot of people are surprised when they see me, saying things like, ‘that’s a woman police officer,’” Malden said, however, she is quick to utilize these reactions as a way to connect with individuals. “I think people are a lot more relaxed with females and more open to talk, in my opinion.”

Before entering the police academy, Malden attended Pensacola State College and is now working on her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Columbia Southern University. Maybe that coursework will enable her to dive into one of her favorite aspects of the job.

“I would say the kids, mostly,” she said when asked what she enjoys most. “Just the interaction that I get to be involved in on a daily basis.”

When asked if there was any special training for female police officers, Malden said initial instruction is general for everyone entering the force; however, PPD does recognize that this segment of the department does warrant additional programming.

“There are trainings that are put on for females in law enforcement that are specific for female officers, but nothing that was put on prior to starting.”

This, along with regular officer training, provides Malden the ability

to focus on the core purpose of her service, which is to be alongside community members day to day.

“For myself, particularly, I like to get out and talk, and it doesn’t have to be investigative, like asking ‘Who are you? Where do you live? What are you doing out there?’ But rather, ‘Hey, I’m new to this area, I just started working (in this area).’”

She added that it’s much easier for a new officer to open up that conversation without people being so standoffish.

As for her sense of belonging with the Pensacola Police Department, she is incredibly content with the size and opportunity to advance, which according to Malden is offered equally to all those who exhibit hard work and dedication.

“It’s not too big of a department to get lost in, but it’s not too small where there’s no room to grow either, so for me it’s the perfect size.”

WHEN MINUTES COUNT

Paramedic and Ft. Walton Beach native Ashley Davis said she knew early on that she wanted to help people in dire situations. She recalls when she was younger, her grandfather became ill and needed an ambulance. She rode with him to the hospital thinking the whole time she wished she were able to help him.

“So, after that, I decided I wanted to be a paramedic. After riding in the ambulance, that’s when I knew what I wanted to do,” Davis said.

For the past eight years, Davis has seen her share of emergency calls and she said no two calls are the same in this fast-paced profession, and that’s the way she likes it.

“I love it. I love that every day you go into work, it’s different every single day,” she said. “I’m an adrenaline junkie.”

Although she may be at the mercy of any particular emergency call, one thing is constant and that is her shift partner, and that scheduling is done on purpose.

“It’s very important. When you have a bad call or someone is really sick,

you can trust your partner because you know their skill level and they know what you need,” she said.

This consistency builds trust between paramedics which ultimately results in better care when seconds count during life-threatening situations.

Davis works for Lifeguard Ambulance Service, an advanced clinical care company that is contracted by Santa Rosa County to provide ambulance service to that particular county where she happens to reside. She is a huge advocate for health education, namely CPR training, in her community.

“I love working where I live because you feel like you can step out and volunteer in the community,” she said. “I feel like CPR is a worthwhile thing to get. Anybody can collapse anywhere.”

When asked what the community can do for paramedics like Davis, she offers a few suggestions but agrees that it’s up to each individual to determine what type of care and response they need to a medical situation, and sometimes those situations aren’t necessarily emergencies.

“Utilize urgent care and not call 911 for little

things like the sniffles,” she said. That doesn’t mean that the individual calling for help is left completely alone to make the distinction if their situation is, in fact, an emergency. “We are utilizing a new system where we can do (telehealth) over 911, so we can actually get a doctor on the phone with a patient where they don’t have to be seen in the ER.”

This gives the paramedics the added ability to treat patients on scene with the guidance of a doctor to administer basic life support, or BLS, rather than expend resources like crucial time these paramedics need to respond to calls for, say, advanced life support, or ALS. These are chest pains or possible strokes in which “minutes matter.”

Picture it: you’re driving home after a long day at work, Fleetwood Mac blaring “Go Your Own Way” on the radio, and you hear the faint yet growing wail of a siren. You look around and in your rearview mirror you see the fast-approaching ambulance with lights ablaze. The question is, what do you do?

“Please move over to the right lane,” said Davis. “Do not stop in the middle of the road. I call it ‘the freakout.’ Just get to the right.”

Shopping list: Geisha Designs dress, Anthropology; WHBM shoes; Inge Christopher bag; Marco Bicego jewelry.

personal style

ANISSA RODRIGUEZ OTTLEY

A beautiful smile is the best fashion accessory

By Magi Thomley Williams

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Anissa Ottley, a general/family dentist and owner of Avalon Dental, loves developing longterm relationships with her patients.

“The best part of my job is watching my patients grow up and return with their kids,” Ottley said. “I have many multigenerational families in my practice, and it is just the best. We offer general dentistry, crowns completed in one day and for funsies Botox and filler to lips and lower face. Our motto is ‘A Healthy Smile Changes Everything’ and it really does. When your mouth is healthy you feel good and have a beautiful smile and there is no simpler, truer form of communication than a sincere smile.”

Ottley believes that her business success wouldn’t be possible without the support of her team.

“The ladies I work with are incredible and most of them have been with me for over a decade. We have grown up together and really done life alongside one another. It feels great to work with women that you admire and really know, and that have your back.”

Her hygienist, Hailey Nevels, even did Ottley’s makeup for the Bella personal style fashion shoot.

While Ottley wears a conservative suit or scrubs for her workdays, she says that loving fashion and style runs in her family.

“I still remember great outfits and shoes my grandmother wore when I was little.”

As a first-generation American girl, the quinceañera years were especially important for Ottley and her family. Latinas are celebrated on their 15th birthday with a quinceañera or coming of age party which she compares to an American wedding reception.

“There were ’lots and ’lots of formal parties,” she explained. “It was very common for my sister and I to imagine a dress, pick out a fabric at the fabric store downtown, then have our seamstress, Magaly, make us a dress.”

Ottley also has fond memories of shopping with her mom and sister.

“The shopping gene runs strong in my family as well. My mom instilled a love of shopping very young in me and she loved to take me and my little sister to the mall on Thursdays after school. My mom, sister, two daughters and two Goddaughters have no problem making a day of it when I visit them in Miami. My sister and I have very similar tastes and it is not uncommon for us to have the same item in our closets that we did not purchase together.”

When asked to define her personal style, Ottley replied that she likes to find special items online and locally.

“I tend to like clothes with special details, beautiful fabrics. I love to shop online for brands like WHBM, Banana Republic, Anthropologie and Athleta, and I enjoy shopping locally at boutiques like Bluetique and Scout.”

Shopping list, left: Kit and Ace navy jumpsuit; Athleta white jacket; Puka Perri jewelry; Sofft shoes; Prada sunglasses; pewter waffle bag, Bluetique; rings, Beré Jewelers. Far left: Suit, blouse and shoes, WHBM; necklace, Tiffany & Co.; drop earrings, Beré Jewelers.

Shopping list: Ulla Johnson dress, Scout; bag, Ann Taylor; shoes, Ann Taylor; Yvel jewelry, Beré Jewelers.

About Anissa Ottley

Ottley graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 1999, one year after her husband started practicing dentistry in Milton, where he was born and raised. Ottley moved to Pace and started a family in 2000 while working for Dr. Nathan Williams and she bought the practice in 2005.

Ottley and her husband, Jeff, have three adult children: Alessandra, 23, is in her first year of medical school at Nova Southeastern; Christian, 21, is majoring in microbiology at the University of Florida and he also wants to be a dentist; Gabrielle,19, is at Auburn majoring in psychology with a minor in counseling. With the extra time that comes with being a happy empty nester, Ottley has an opportunity to do more to give back to the community. She is an active member at St Paul Catholic Church. She has been a member of IMPACT100 for 12 years and is serving her second year on the board. She has also participated in many dental volunteer services with Give Kids a Smile, Florida Baptist Dental Bus, Mission of Mercy and will be seeing patients at the Health and Hope Clinic this year.

Hair & Makeup

Shopping list: Helsi dress, Nieman Marcus; vegan bag, Urban Expressions; Antonio Milani shoes, Dillards; diamond bangle and hoops, Beré Jewelers; diamond eternity band, Tiffany & Co.

• Kristen Peden, Ulta, hair stylist

• Hailey Nevels, makeup

• SanTan By Amber, spray tan

local fare

Lights, Camera & Women Taking Action

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

In this ever-expanding world of digital content, there’s something to be said about quality versus quantity. Every single second of the day, countless pictures, videos and links are liked, swiped and shared across social media and beyond. Of course, algorithms help to sort out some of the clutter, whether it be by websites previously visited or even your location – chances are that perfect pair of pants you didn’t know you needed will magically appear during your scrolling.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Sierra Hobbs is a producer with local production company Calliope Films.

That’s why digital marketing initiatives are always vying to grab the right audience, and a key piece of that digital pie is video production. And we’re not talking about an influencer making a 6-second video on the latest eyebrow shaping trends. For many local production companies, like Calliope Films, their content is nothing short of an art form, and for that it takes an incredibly passionate and talented team to make it happen.

“What we really strive to do, what we love doing most is (focusing on) the creative community of Pensacola and trying to support that as much as possible,” said Sierra Hobbs, producer with Calliope Films. Hobbs is no stranger to this creative community as a majority of her school life revolved around theater and then science. “Once I graduated high school I chose the science path, at least for college, but I kept doing

theater for fun the whole time.”

After earning her degree in biochemistry and environmental science from the University of West Florida, she continued to immerse herself in theater and was eventually recruited by local professional improvisational group IMPROVable Cause as well as the sketch comedy group Kitty Get a Job. She got her feet wet by helping the groups with more and more production projects, then for her the path was clear.

“I ended up just falling in love with video production. I loved being in front of the camera, which is how I started, but then I began filling the holes that I saw needed to be filled.”

At the beginning, this work was mostly on a volunteer basis, but Hobbs was hired to do freelance work in production and logistics. Fast forward to January 1, 2022, when she was hired as a full-time producer with Calliope, thus growing the female presence in this male-dominated profession. However, women are certainly finding their place under the proverbial video production spotlight.

“The industry itself is very male-dominated, but our local industry has some really awesome women that in the past five, ten years have really been making their mark,” Hobbs said.

But you don’t have to take her word for it, Calliope owner/ director Chris Jadallah is happy to echo that sentiment.

“Obviously having a woman on staff is going to give us perspectives we didn’t have before,” said Jadallah.

“The industry itself is very maledominated, but our local industry has some really awesome women that in the past five, ten years have really been making their mark.”

— Sierra Hobbs

He continues to note that oftentimes client meetings constitute a room full of mostly men, but that is never a deterrent for Hobbs to offer her creative and professional expertise.

“We have Sierra sitting there as a woman who’s not afraid to speak up. She shares her ideas, she shares her thoughts and nine times out of ten, her ideas are better than (the men’s),” he quipped.

But joking aside, Calliope does incredible and important work for our community, especially for local nonprofits. A recent nonprofit client approached the film company to help spread the organization’s mission. It’s standard practice for groups like this to get the message out, but it takes special care in recognizing that exact, impassioned message.

“It was very emotional. Everybody cried – we all cried just listening to them share their stories. Because they know and we know that their sharing stories is a way to help others and is getting the message out there that they do have resources available, and this is something that can help you because it’s helped them,” said Hobbs. “It’s definitely important to us that we are seen as people you can trust to understand your message, understand your goals and portray them accurately.”

Both Hobbs and Jadallah said it all comes down to all parties involved being vulnerable and taking risks. This starts with the

initial client meeting, normally to discuss budget and logistics, which is in Hobbs’ wheelhouse, as her job is essentially planning every minute of production days. Once production begins, the focus turns to the storytelling, and this is where those risks come into play.

“We try to push the boundaries, therefore push ourselves as much as possible and in turn, push our clients to take some risks too, if they’re willing to play with us a little bit,” she said.

But video production isn’t necessarily considered risky business. The principals of Calliope agree that truly engaging with the clients and making sure everyone has fun is a top priority.

“We want to enjoy what we’re doing,” said Jadallah. “If we enjoy it, there’s a strong chance it’s going to be a much better production if we’re enjoying the process as well.”

It’s not just the video production professionals having fun with clients, but also with each other. Hobbs says the local industry is vibrant and supportive, definitely with an element of camaraderie. And at the end of the day, normally a very long one in video production, these consummate professionals always have time to glean insight and inspiration from each.

“We love collaborating with other creatives in any way because we have a very tight-knit video production community here,” said Hobbs. “We’re all friends.”

local fare University of West Florida’s Women in Leadership Conference

By Magi Thomley Williams • Photo by Kate Treick Photography

The University of West Florida’s Ninth Annual Women in Leadership Conference (WILC) has something for every woman, no matter what stage her career.

“Young professionals will proactively manage their growth and development to prepare for their desired leadership roles. Seasoned professionals will leverage unique strengths to thrive and succeed in current and future leadership roles,” explained Sherry Hartnett, founding chairperson of the conference.

The conference has sold out every single year since the first event in 2014. In 2022, they had a record-breaking attendance of over 700 attendees; 430 in person and more than 270 attended virtually (the first time UWF offered a virtual attendance option). Strong attendance and corporate support are two of the reasons the conference continues to thrive – Navy Federal Credit Union has been a sponsor every year since the event’s inception.

The information-packed event is structured so all attendees not only learn something new but strengthen and expand their network with recognized thought leaders and peers. Participants will leave the conference feeling motivated and inspired about their leadership journey and be equipped to help shape the future of Northwest Florida, the state and the world. As a tasty bonus, there will be a repeat of last year’s mountain of pretty, pink boxes filled with Crumbl Cookies.

This year, the conference will encompass four areas of development.

1. Education during the conference will benefit attendees both professionally and personally from the compelling content expert speakers provide.

2. Networking opportunities during the VIP reception and the conference will enhance relationships between students, guests, sponsors and speakers.

3. Diversity, equity & inclusion showcased at the conference fosters growth and learning.

4. Positivity sparks brainstorming and excitement, creating a buzz within the room that continues afterward as attendees continue to talk about their conference experience.

“I am overwhelmed by the caliber of speakers we have hosted over the past years, and I am so thankful for their contributions,” Hartnett said. “Speakers are the heart of the conference, and we could not produce this annual event without fabulous speakers like the ones we have had in the past, and which you will hear from this year.”

Morning keynote speaker Siri Lindley is a world champion triathlete, high-performance coach and winner of 12 World Cup races. Lindley inspires and energizes her audiences, bringing out the best in an organization’s employees and teams. She helps teams win by living fearlessly, developing the critical traits needed for authentic leadership and building business team mindsets for resilience and success.

Lindley establishes a remarkable connection with every audience member and gets to the heart of habits and rituals that drive high performance. In late 2019, Lindley faced her own difficult battle when she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Despite being given less than a 10 percent chance of survival at the time of her diagnosis, she was pronounced cancer-free by her doctors in May 2020.

Panel discussions will cover important issues like “Lessons Learned in a Traditionally Male-Dominated Arena” and “Heartfelt Leadership.” During lunch break, attendees can choose to participate in a casual mix and mingle lunch or engage in round table discussions with local women who will lead conversations on varied subjects including Career Pivots, Courageous Conversations in the Workplace, and Advocating for Yourself.

“Empowering women and helping them be successful in their careers is a passion of mine,” Hartnett shared. “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart to all the speakers, sponsors, planning committee, volunteers and attendees, this year and in past years, for all your support in making this conference the acclaimed conference that it continues to be.”

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

Want to go?

• WHAT: 2023 UWF Women in Leadership Conference

• WHEN: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 30.

• WHERE: UWF Conference Center, 11000 University Pkwy., Pensacola

• MORE INFORMATION: uwf. edu/wilc

• REGISTRATION: uwf. edu/cob/communityoutreach/women-inleadership/registration

• SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION: uwf.edu/cob/ community-outreach/ women-in-leadership/ sponsorshipopportunities

Sherry Hartnett is the founding chairperson of the UWF’s Women in Leadership Conference.

body & soul PICKLEBALL

Easy to learn and fun to play

WHERE TO PLAY

• Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA, 165 E. Intendencia St., Pensacola; 850-4384406; ymcanwfl.org.

• Vickrey Community Center, 2130 Summit Blvd., Pensacola; 850-912-4056; cityofpensacola.com.

• Armstrong Park, 300 W. Lakeview Ave., Pensacola; cityofpensacola.com.

• Hollice T. Williams Park, 1601 N. Hayne St., Pensacola; cityofpensacola.com.

Cheri Saul (ABOVE) and Erin Day (RIGHT) play pickleball at the downtown YMCA.

By Liz Biggs

• Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Just so you know, pickleball has nothing to do with pickles. Pickleball is a fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It is played both indoors and outdoors on a badmintonsized court with a slightly modified tennis net. Played with a paddle and a plastic ball, it can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels.

According to Jen Beres, wellness director at the Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA, pickleball has become popular because it is such a fun way to stay active.

“It is a great way to bring out your competitive side or play for fun, as well as meeting new people,” Beres said. “The downtown YMCA offers five time blocks throughout the week where the gym is open for pickleball play. There are no reservations required – players can show up during those times, set up and get playing. Due to the high volume of participants, people will rotate through games so everyone can get a chance to play. On some days, if there are plenty of players, one side of the gym will be for beginners’ games and the other for advanced, but it is not always set up that way.”

The YMCA provides nets, paddles and balls; however, there are no lessons or clinics available. Many of the individuals who play regularly are willing to show newcomers the rules for playing.

Yuri Stibolt, an avid tennis player and a step aerobics instructor at the YMCA, is a big fan of pickleball and plays regularly in the advanced group. She was looking for a sport that was easier on the body than tennis, trying to reduce the risks of injury.

“I was excited because there is so much less court to cover in pickleball than in tennis. I think that is why it is so popular with older people – it’s a more accessible sport,” Stibolt said, adding that she really loves playing indoor pickleball. “I never have to worry about the weather to play – you can play anytime. I also like the fact that you can just show up and there will always be people to play with (unlike tennis, where it’s hard to get a foursome together and worry about cancellations and subs). I have met some great people and developed some awesome friendships.”

If you are not a member of the YMCA, indoor pickleball is played at the City of Pensacola’s Vickrey Center. The gym has lined pickleball courts available 8 a.m. to noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Nets and balls are provided, but you must bring your own paddle. Registration is required but there is no cost. Pickleball lines are painted on the City of Pensacola tennis courts at Armstrong Park and Hollice T. Williams Park for outdoor pickleball play.

If you think that pickleball is just for old geezers, think again! Four tennis legends will try their hand at pickleball, for a $1 million prize on April 2 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. John McEnroe, Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick and Michael Chang will be competing in singles and doubles at the Inaugural Pickleball Slam, organized by Horizon Sports and Experiences. According to David Levy, co-CEO of Horizon Sports and Experiences, pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America.

“Pickleball is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon, experiencing a meteoric rise across genders, age groups, geographies, and income levels,” Levy said on CBS News.

What are you waiting for? Spring into action and play this easy-to-learn, fun-to-play sport!

girls night out

Southern STAR

Grab your girls and enjoy a day on the water

By Kelly MacLeod

While it’s great to get a night out with the girls, sometimes a girls’ day out in nature really feeds the soul. Pensacola is surrounded by fabulous water – from the rivers to the bay to the Gulf. So why not grab some friends and enjoy this natural resource we are so blessed to have?

Don’t have a boat? No problem. There are many ways to charter a boat in this area, but the women of Southern Star will take you out for an afternoon on their 47-foot catamaran and you can relax and enjoy the breeze and the sun without a care in the world.

From the moment you leave the dock in Gulf Breeze, Captain Linda Thompson and Ingrid Hewette make sure you are comfortable and have the knowledge you need to move around the boat safely. You can participate as much or as little as you want. Being a sailor myself, I couldn’t help but jump in and help raise the mainsail. My

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

WANT TO GO?

• WHAT: Gulf Breeze Sailing’s Southern Star

• COST: Half day sail (3 hours): $800 for up to 6 people; Full day sail (5 hours): $1,200 for up to 6 people; Blue Angel private charter (5 hours): $1,600, includes snacks and drinks

• MORE INFO: gulfbreezesailing.com

ABOVE: The Bella team of Kelly MacLeod, Liz Biggs, Beej Davis, Leah Seacrest, Lakesha Davis, Magi Thomas and Allison McCrory with the Southern Star team of Ingrid Hewette and Captain Linda Thompson. RIGHT: Captain Linda Thompson and Ingrid Hewette at the helm of Southern Star.

hardworking Bella team took the opportunity for a well-earned break and relaxed in the beanbags on the bow of the boat.

Thompson and Hewette both grew up in Pensacola and have been sailing since they were kids. Thompson is a US Coast Guard licensed captain and a certified American Sailing Association instructor, so you are definitely in good hands. Both have sailed extensively in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas and the Keys.

Catamarans are stable boats, so you don’t have

to worry about the boat heeling (leaning to one side). There is a comfy salon area and a full galley, so it’s easy to enjoy snacks and beverages. There is also a full table behind the helm so you can also enjoy the great outdoors.

Not sure how you would pass the time while out on the water? Chances are really good that you will see dolphins and other wildlife and many times the Blues are out practicing. We were also blessed to get to see the America’s Cup team American Magic out training.

Not a bad way to spend an afternoon, huh?

out&about

Bootleg Ball: Molls and Mugshots

The Bootleg Ball: Molls and Mugshots fundraiser for the University of West Florida Historic Trust was a roaring success and celebrated the coppers, gumshoes, gangsters and molls of the 1920s. Inspired by “Vice City: Crime, Prohibition and Pensacola,” a former exhibit in the Pensacola Museum of History, the Bootleg Ball: Molls and Mugshots included a replica jail, a vintage car belonging to the Noble Family, dancers, music, cocktails by Old Hickory Whiskey Bar and fabulous food from Classic City Catering.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

DILLON SPIKER, JAMIE SPIKER, TIMOTHY NALL, RACHEL BOWLBY, GARRETT DENTON, SKYE BRADLEY, KYLE LUSK, SHAWN MORRISON, LARRY BUNCH, SHERRI BUNCH, CANDACE LEWIS, CAMILLE WOOD, BRENDAN SMITH

ANGEL AND ROB OVERTON

CAMPBELL AND LINDSEY CALDWELL, JIMMY AND ANNE HLAVACEK

PHILLIP AND MICHELLE SALZMAN, CHRIS AND BRIDGET MIDDLETON

KATHLEEN LOGAN, CONNIE CROSBY

MELANIE HENDRIX, MCKENNA MURPHY

JIMMY AND CAITLIN RHEA

JAMIE SPIKER, KYLE LUST, RACHEL BOWLBY

GORDON AND ALLI FRANK

ANGELIA AND ELLIOTT WRIGHT

JOE AND BRADLEY VINSON

JUSTIN AND LINDSEY LEWIS, HANAN TERABAY AND HOWARD REDDY

KRISTIN BECK, LINDSAY FLEEGE, LINDSEY CALDWELL, KRISTIN BOUCHARD

ADDIE AND MIKE MURDOCH

JOE AND JANETTA BELL

JAMES AND BECCA FRITSCHLE

WES AND KIMBERLY ROBERTSON

ADDIE MURDOCH, KRISTIN BOUCHARD, ROBIN ZIMMERN

SUSAN BELCHER, ERICA HUFFMAN

KRISTIN BOUCHARD, DAVID PENNIMAN, ADDIE MURDOCH

DAVID AND CHANDA FETTER, KATILYNN AND JUSTIN BYRNE

DIANE PETERSON, JAN NORMAN, PHILOMENA MADDEN

NICOLE GISLESON, BETTY ROBERTS, DANIEL STOMP

ADDIE MURDOCH, JOHN GORMLEY, MICHAEL MURDOCH

MAR ANN AND KEVIN SCOTT

HANAN TARABAY AND HOWARD REDDY

ROBIN ZIMMERN, BRIDGET MIDDLETON

FRITZ AND JULIA HOESCHLER, TODD HAMBURG, DON SCHERMERHORN

out&about

27th Annual Cordova Mall Ball

Photos by Lakesha Davis

MIRIAM BELLAMY, TENOLA GANDY, TALISSA ANDREWS, SHARON NATION

Presented by Sandy Sansing Dealerships, many were excited to celebrate as the Mall Ball returned this year. The evening consisted of music, food tastings, silent auction and so much more. All proceeds from the event benefit the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart.

STEVE AND LALA LOW

SCOT CHEBERN, CASSANDRA ROBERSON

ERICA LANES, GRACE RESENDEZ MCCAFFERY

MELVIN HARRIS, MAMIE NIXON

JEROME AND CINDY BESS

ALYSON OXENDINE, AMANDA SHUPE

PAULA HENDRIX, MARCIA FINDLEY-SHAW, JOY CRISWELL

DANIELLE CLAYTON, ABIGAIL KING

TAROLYN AND DAVID STREET

BRENDA DEAN, LINDA HXON, KIMBERLY WILLIAMS

ED AND GINA BROWN

GARY AND KENNY SUMMITT

JENNIFER SABA

ANDREA DEPAUW, SARAH GONZALEZ, AMANDA TORGERSON

SYDNEY ROBERSON, KRISTI HENDERSON

KRISTINA ROBINSON, LISA LITTLE

JESSICA WALTON, JOY BOUNDS

BRIAN AND HARRIET WYER, MILLICENT AND HERMAN FLINTROY

WILL ESTELL, LAURA HUSSEY, PAULA AND JARED WILLETS

DEAN SMYTHIA, MELISSA DURDEN, AMANDA KLAMPFER, CHRISTIAN ZELIUS, KIM POLK, BRITTANY ODOM, SONJA BISHOP, STACEY GILREATH

out&about

Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Northwest Florida’s The Big Gala

Many took flight on Jan. 14 from Hilton Pensacola Beach in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida’s biggest event, The Big Gala. Presented by the Pensacola Ice Flyers, more than 300 guests flew first class for a worthy cause. The evening was filled with live entertainment, cocktails, silent auctions and a gourmet seated dinner. For 33 years Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida has provided families a light at the end of a tunnel with a mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of the youth.

Photos by Lakesha Davis

JESSICA PETERS, CARRIE DEAN, LIZ KANE, LINDSEY KILGORE, JESSICA ROCKHILL, ALLISON NUNLEY

ANGELA AND BRENT LANE, MEL MCCRAE

MALORIE MCKINNON, KIM ANDERSON

CERE BOYLE, ERIN WHITEHEAD, GOLDIE LAHR“BLUE ANCHOR BELLES”

LAUREN AND DANIEL SOUERS

VICTOR AND MARINA AGADZI

CATIE RONSON, MELISSA WRIGHT

KELLY AND RIQUE TWIN

MELISSA SCHMIEDESKAMP, HEATHER MOORER

DARSHELL SANEERDER, SABRINA SIMPSON

LINDSEY KILGORE, JESSICA ROCKHILL

OSIE LEE, HONG POTOMZKI, CRISTINA WAGHALTER, BROOKE VANCE

ADRIENNE MAYGARDEN, CLARE HAENSZEL

SUSAN PEADEN, GRACE BYARS

JESSICA SMITH, MACY WILLIAMS, PENNY CORAGGIA

BARBARA MACNEIL, LAKEETA HEISTON, HARLOW HEISTON

TODD CUNNINGHAM, PAULA SHELL

HALEY TURNER, TASIA HART, ASHLEY CORREA

BRENDA SAVAGE, VICTORIA FINLE

DANIEL RABB, ELENA BARBA,OLESYA AND AARON CHATRAW

out&about

Impact 100 Meet & Mingle

The women of Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area gathered for a delightful Meet & Mingle event on Jan. 11 at The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach. Members and guests enjoyed delicious food provided by the Grand Marlin thanks to host The Sherlyn Waghalter Real Estate Team. It was a full house and the women heard from First Tee Gulf Coast Executive Director Marty Stanovich who told stories of how a past Impact 100 grant made a transformative difference early in the history of First Tee Gulf Coast. It was a memorable evening demonstrating to potential members the power of women coming together to make a difference in our community.

By Kate Treick Photography

JENNIFER HARRISON, VICTORIA MULLET, DELAYNA BLANKENSHIP, MAGI WILLIAMS, PAMELA BOLADO

MARY BLOCK, SALLY BERGOSH, SUSAN BONSIGNORE, SARAH HAIZLIP, LAURA SWANN

KARA LUCKETT, AMANDA HINDSMAN

COURTNEY GARNER, DEE GREEN, JULIE TIPPINS-PARKER

LIZ DOENLEN, KATHLEEN LOGAN

ANITA CLAYTON, SHERRY CAWLEY

TARA LEWIS, NICOLE CLECKLER

ELIZABETH COLE, LAURA MUNRO, CHRISTINA YAGER, EMILY HOMAN

The day the Lizmix died her perspective

My favorite musical genre is Psychedelicbluesytimelessrockyjangle Pop. What’s yours? If you admit to Bro Country, we can be friends who talk about the weather, but we will never be close. But if you are passionate and knowledgeable about your Bro Country, I can respect that, my music loving comrade. Some of you music lovers may remember a catchy 80’s song by Bruce Hornsby, “That’s just the way it is, some things will never change,” he sang. Well, some things have changed, Bruce, like how to share music!

For over 25 years, I compiled a curated year-end mixtape/CD/playlist and shared it with friends. I avidly listened to music all year, old and new, scouting out songs worthy of my Lizmix. Then I edited the collection down to 80 minutes to fit on a CD, purchased the songs on iTunes (or burned them from my CD collection), arranged the songs in perfect mixtape order (buildup, crescendo, then all sad or slow songs relegated to the winddown), burned 100 CDs and printed labels. It was a labor of love. It came in handy at Christmastime, since I don’t bake, knit or make jelly. My friends couldn’t wait to pop that CD into their player and experience the eclectic Lizmix.

But as Bob Dylan sings, “The times, they are a changin.” I attempted to change with the times, purchasing both Spotify and Apple Music subscriptions way back when they became available. For years, I sent links to my playlist on both streaming services to over 100 people. Last year only three people opened them. Ouch, a bee stung my ego. But I get it, there is no longer a singular way to give the gift of music. I personally love Spotify but not many of my friends are willing to pay for it. And Spotify is competing with Apple, Pandora, SiriusXM, SoundCloud, YouTube, as well as a surge in vinyl record sales. People just wanna listen to their own music! Amen to that. RIP to the Lizmix. It had a good

run, a great life, but like my favorite George Harrison album, “All Things Must Pass.”

Oh, but don’t worry, the music hasn’t died. In addition to a turntable, CD player and cassette player (yes it works), we now have Bluetooth speakers all over the house, including a waterproof one in the shower. Thanks to the Spotify family plan, everyone can listen to almost any song ever written anywhere at any time. Listening to their music (not mine) blasting in the car, in the shower, or on the trampoline is what my children do. It makes me smile. Never fear, I still make playlists, way more than once a year now. Some have 200 songs on them – I always hated being restricted to 80 minutes. I name them lovingly: Sweet Things, Dance This Mess Around, The Feels, Space Music, Jangle Pop, Psychejelic, Technicolor and Fongs (songs that start with my favorite letter, F), to name a few. I suppose it is a hobby, like knitting. But I can’t give anyone a hat or a scarf.

For those of you who love music, I’ll list a few tracks from what would have been my 26th annual Lizmix (in mixtape order of course). Listen any way you can!

• “Expert in a Dying Field” by The Beths

• “I Can’t Give Everything Away” by Spoon

• “Tired of Toein’ the Line” by Rocky Burnette

• “Border Song” by Aretha Franklin

• “Chaise Longue” by Wet Leg

• “Head On” by The Jesus and Mary Chain

• “All Right Now” by Free

• “Baby One More Time” by Fountains of Wayne

• “Liz” by Shel Silverstein

• “Another Day” by Paul McCartney

• “Walking on a Wire” by the bis-quits

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.