Bella Magazine May 2023

THE SPA ISSUE

As med spa treatments are on the rise, check out the newer, non-surgical options; May style is easy, breezy; HOTWORX, Wild Lemon Pilates and Disko Lemonade Yoga offer workouts to improve flexibility, strength and mindfulness.

PLUS: Art of Fashion rocked the runway with a Studio 54 theme.

“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

When I think of spas, I typically envision massages, facials, soothing music and divine scents – which all leads to an immediate drop in the stress I’m carrying. An hour under the masterful hands of their staff and I’m ready to tackle the world again. Luckily, those of us who like to be pampered have many great spas in our area that offer just that. But that’s not all they offer. In recent years, there has been a rise in what are known as medical spas, which offer not only the typical day spa services, but also nonsurgical, anti-aging services. Our cover story this month (page 22) takes a look at some of the latest nonsurgical treatments offered in the area.

I think it’s great that we have so many options available and that each person can decide what’s best for them personally. We all want to see what we consider the best version of ourselves reflected back at us in the mirror. When we like what we see, we carry ourselves with a little more confidence.

I also think it’s OK if you love your wrinkles and decide not do anything. We shouldn’t judge either way.

It’s kind of tricky, isn’t it?

Some women feel judged for aging naturally, and some women feel judged for fighting the appearance of aging. It seems like we can’t win! That’s why it’s so important to do what you feel is best for you and not to meet anyone else’s idea of what makes a woman beautiful. The harshest judgement we can feel is the judgement we put on ourselves.

So whether you rock the wrinkles or love your med spa treatments, you do you and let’s all give each other (and ourselves) grace and acceptance so that we all radiate our own beauty!

— Kelly MacLeod

Bella Staff

PUBLISHER / Kelly MacLeod

EDITOR / Kelly MacLeod

ART DIRECTOR / Elizabeth Meyer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Liz Biggs, Sloan Stephens Cox, Allison McCrory, Leslie Peck, Leah Seacrest, Magi Thomley Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lakesha Davis, Kate Treick

PERSONAL

STYLE Courtney

22 COVER STORY: New, non-surgical med spa treatments

spendorsave

Burberry gabardine trench dress, $2,238, Lyst.com.

Rodarte satin halter gown, $1,600, District5Boutique.com.

Apiece Apart “Esparta” top, $265, Shopbop.com.

Jennifer Behr “Zia” earrings, $225, Shopbop.com.

BY SLOANE STEPHENS COX / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED

Belted gabardine dress, $129, Zara.com.

Appliquéd halter-neck dress, $64.99, HM.com.

Ruffle-trimmed creped blouse, $24.99, HM.com.

Ana Carolina Valencia “Garden Shell” earrings, $67, AnaCarolinaValencia.com.

Groundbreaking Care

Baptist Cancer Institute

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

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

ebaptisthealthcare.org

fashion

MAY STYLE

It’s a peaceful, easy feeling

By Allison McCrory • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

As spring emerges, seek out styles that embrace the easy breezy vernal vibe of warmer days and nights.

“The fashion trends that we are seeing are long, flowing dresses, wide-leg pants – even in jeans,” noted Peg Woolverton of The Market and Mainly Shoes.

Greens and corals are big while, “blush, nudes and softer hues of pink are big in purses, shoes and sandals,” she added.

“The crossbody bags in all sizes continue to dominate,” said Woolverton. “Also, comfortable clothing, easy care yet very stylish such as Spanx, Flax and Michael Stars.”

Wear those wide-leg pants with platform shoes or heels and cropped ankle pants with flats or sneakers, suggested Woolverton’s sister and business partner Anne Frechette.

Frechette is a fan of personalizing basic classics in linen, cotton, silk or knit with unique jewelry, scarves and purses.

“Our Sympli line of knit fabrics is great for traveling and take minimal space for trips,” said Frechette, noting that the pieces are subtle, versatile shades including olive, fog, blues and everyone’s favorite go-everywhere color – black.

Speaking of color, long gone is the rule to avoid wearing white before Memorial Day.

“Wonderful solid white is everywhere in all fashions and shoes,” said Frechette.

Shopping list: White, as well as flowing feminine lines, are abundant this spring. This ethereal cover-up by AquaVita, $98, is pretty enough to take you to the beach or pool and more. Shimmering gold swimsuit by OndadeMar, $190, offers simple classic style.

Shopping list: Basic black with pristine accessories?

Yes, please! This Michael Stars dress, $168, will be a go-to staple for countless occasions for years.

Shopping list: Own the boardroom and more in this teal suit with a vintage twist, all by Estelle & Finn. It will be hard not to twirl in this coat inspired by lines prominent in the ’50s, $350; matching pant is $160. Cowl necks, likely originally inspired by Ancient Greek fashions, returned to the American scene in the 1930s. This sleeveless top in ivory, $190, offers a stunning contrast to vibrant teal.

love Monifa

Balmy spring days along the Gulf Coast are some of May model Monifa Love’s favorites.

“I love spring and summer fashion items. I love to step out in a simple yet elegant sundress,” said the mom of two teen boys.

As owner of Design Moni, Love creates custom wedding invitations and programs. She’s also the store manager at Jen’s Designer Deals.

Growing up in a military family, frequent moves were the norm. But when Love married her husband Ron 18 years ago, the pair settled in Pensacola and haven’t looked back.

When not working or researching and whipping up vegan recipes, Love enjoys the great outdoors.

“I like hiking trails, sitting on the beach watching the waves or sitting on my back porch and watching the sun set.”

Shopping list: An Italian linen dress and duster is an ideal duo for warm to cooler spring days and nights. LaBottiga Di Brunella linen cap sleeve dress, $500; linen duster, also by LaBottiga Di Brunella, $795. Neutral colors and elongated lines make this outfit a perfect palette for statement accessories.

Shopping list: Coral is making a strong showing this spring! This pretty, breathable linen top by Michael Stars, $158, packs a punch teaming with classic denim shorts by GoldSign, $188.

About The Location

Pensacola Yacht Club, 1897 Cypress St., Pensacola; 850-432-7006; pensacolayachtclub.org

Makeup Jo Rich Beauty, 126 Palafox Place, Pensacola; 850-962-2545; jorichbeauty.com

Clothes Compliments of The Market and Mainly Shoes, 700 S. Palafox St., Pensacola; 850-434-3012; ashopforwomen.com

stylingthe shoot

Florabella beach hat, $198.

Where to shop: The Market and Mainly Shoes / Photography: Kate Treick Photography / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory

Latico brown leather crossbody purse, $110.

Campos white clutch bag, $128. Pearl earrings, $30.

Frieda Rothman diamond and 18K gold on braided leather necklace, $1,500.

Chinese Laundry cheetah shoes, $75. Sliced agate earrings, $78.

Hat Attack rattan purse, $130.

Sans Arcidet hat (made in Paris), $395.

What’s the new buzz in SKINCARE TREATMENTS?

By Liz Biggs • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Regenerative medicine, stem cells, collagen, biostimulants, exosomes, peptides, amino acids, plasma – there are so many scientific terms buzzing around in skin care discussions these days, it’s hard to make an informed decision.

Instead of relying on Dr. Google, why not ask a knowledgeable professional?

Brittany Perez, a cosmetic injector at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery, has a Master of Science in Nursing Education from University of West Florida, a post-master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner from University of South Alabama and a doctorate of nursing practice from University of South Alabama.

According to Perez, regenerative medicine is a term used to describe the process of restoring or replacing damaged cells and tissues by stimulating your body’s natural healing mechanisms.

“This is not a new approach to aesthetics; however, it is becoming more widely discussed amongst providers and has piqued the interest of our patients desiring a naturopathic approach,” Perez said.

Brittany Perez, a cosmetic injector at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery Skin Care Center, 4704 N. Davis Hwy., Pensacola; 850-474-0155; gulfcoastplasticsurgery.com

Many people may have heard of one area of ongoing regenerative medicine research – stem cell therapy, which is the transfer of cells derived from bone marrow, adipose (fat) tissue or umbilical cord blood

“Stem cell therapy is currently used for acute injuries (burns) and chronic diseases (Parkinson’s) under strict FDA guidelines. Still, it is the basis for regenerative medicine advances in our industry,” explained Perez, who is also a national speaker and trainer for Allergan (makers of Botox and Juvéderm) and the American Institute of Aesthetic Medicine and the co-founder and owner of Method Aesthetics Academy – a training institute for other healthcare providers specializing in aesthetic medicine.

“The applications of regenerative aesthetics continue to develop as the industry moves towards restoring skin health, stimulating collagen and elastin and maintaining a natural appearance. Collagen and elastin stimulation is the primary treatment objective of many of the procedures we offer: plateletrich fibrin (vampire facials), topical exosomes (hair regeneration), injectable biostimulators (Radiesse & Sculptra), Wharton’s jelly (collagen derived from umbilical cord blood), lasers (CO2), micro-needling with and without heat (radiofrequency) and nano fat grafting,” Perez continued.

Here are some of the newest treatments, explained by Perez:

• Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is also referred to as a vampire facial. Plateletrich fibrin is an autologous blood-derived product rich in white blood cells that stimulates the release of growth factors to regenerate your tissue on a cellular level. We draw two to three tubes of blood, spin them at a low speed to maintain platelet integrity and extract the PRF to inject into the desired area. PRF has no additives, is minimally invasive and has a short recovery time (one to two days). Three treatments are recommended and should be spaced four to six weeks apart.

PRF has essentially replaced plateletrich plasma (PRP) for all aesthetic applications – hair restoration, vampire facelifts, dark under-eye circles, and

acne scars. PRF is superior to PRP due to its higher concentration of growth factors and the fibrin clot formation that holds the growth factors at the injection site for a longer duration, improving the result. PRF gel biofiller is the newest addition to plasma treatments and is my go-to modality for the under eyes and lines around the mouth. The gel releases growth factors and uses your blood’s albumin to add a filler-like volumizing result.

• Exosomes is another buzzword in aesthetics. Topical exosomes benefit patients who aren’t PRF candidates (dehydration, bleeding disorders) or are strictly looking for topical microneedling treatment. Exosomes are stem cell-derived and contain potent growth factors, peptides, amino acids, vitamins and hyaluronic acid. This topical skin treatment can decrease the appearance of fine lines, improve skin hydration and reduce pigment. When used on the scalp, it increases blood flow, promotes a healthier hair cycle and reduces hair shedding.

• Sculptra and Radiesse products are injected much like hyaluronic acid filler. These products stimulate skin tightening and moderate volumization by addressing the underlying causes of aging – loss of collagen and elastin. Three treatments are recommended and should be spaced eight to 12 weeks apart.

“I have worked over the last two years to educate my patients on the actual aging process – loss of collagen and elastin resulting in skin laxity and crepiness, bone resorption, fat loss, etc.,” Perez said. “Hyaluronic acid fillers have a place, they add volume (great for the lips), but what we really want is to reverse aging and not put a Band-Aid on it.”

Her recommended full-face treatment typically includes: two treatments of Sculptra/ Radiesse and upper face neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin or Daxxify – the new six-month tox), followed by two to three sessions of a “Vampire Facelift” including injection of PRF gel into their areas of concern (eyes, lips, neck, hands) with topical treatment of PRF plus exosomes microneedled into the skin to improve texture, tone and brightness.

Med Spa Treatments New, non-surgical

Leslie Peck experiences the Emface technology at Dr. Kevin Welch’s office. Emface lifts, builds and tightens muscle without surgery.

By Leslie Peck • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

If you are considering a face lift or mini face lift in the near future, there are some newer treatments to consider first. These med spa treatments are on the rise and worth looking into. They cannot replace what surgery can do, but possibly restore some of the firmness and muscle tone you once had. Many women are not comfortable with surgery or possibly are not candidates for surgery for various reasons. Technology and research continue to advance the treatments that are offered in today’s med spa environment.

FIBROBLAST SKIN TREATMENT

Creagh Ekelund of Result Medical Spa and Permanent Makeup is a Pensacola native with 20 years of aesthetics experience. She has studied Fibroblast Skin Treatment for the past six years and is now treating clients with the Subnovii plasma device. Fibroblast Skin Treatment is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure used for localized skin tightening around the eye, face and neck areas.

“Fibroblast Skin Treatment is very popular, especially for the upper eyes, giving a nonsurgical blepharoplasty. It is also used for lower eyelid and crow’s feet tightening, benign skin lesion removal, sun spot and age spot removal, permanent makeup and tattoo removal and acne scarring,” Ekelund said.

Throughout her career spanning two decades, Creagh has had the opportunity to work with several different treatments in resort spas, med spas and private practice.

“I have been privy to so many new devices and technologies; some came as fast as they went and some really stuck around because they produced true results and really make changes to the skin,” she said. “The one remaining gap in the market was for a device that can deliver as close to surgical-like results without the surgery; but one that won’t wear off and won’t require

repeat visits to achieve the results.”

How does this treatment work?

The device emits energy into a very small area of the skin creating a sealed wound and shocks the tissue below the surface of the skin. Fibroblast activity then stimulates the natural collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid to heal and tighten the skin.

“It effectively takes advantage of the fine layer of ionized gas, or plasma, that exists along the surface of your skin. The tip of the plasma device never actually touches the skin but it’s the power of molecular physics that gives this treatment its magic,” Ekelund explained.

It is always best to do a consultation to see if this treatment is best suited for your skin type. Fibroblast Skin Treatment can take about an hour depending on the size of the area being treated, with most of that time waiting for numbing cream to take effect. The price of the treatment is given at the consult, but it ranges from $300 to $600 per session. Most people won’t need more than one session but, if necessary, it would be four months apart.

EMFACE

Emface uses electromagnetic energy to contract and build the facial muscles to lift, define and reduce fine lines. The radio frequency heat stimulates elastin and collagen while the muscle stimulation is contracting and building strength. During a facelift, surgeons tighten skin and muscle. Emface is the first device to work on lifting, building and tightening muscle without surgery.

“Emface is revolutionary technology. It has taken the same Emsculpt Neo technology for the body and brought it to the face. We have never had the ability before to non-invasively address facial musculature. Facial musculature ages just as skin does. We tighten the skin, we polish the skin, we make the color better, we improve the pores and the smoothness, but we’ve never been able to do it non-invasively,” Dr. Welch said.

How does Emface work?

“The applicators go on the forehead and cheeks and the muscles targeted most are the frontalis muscle in the forehead, the zygomaticus major and minor in the cheek, also the risorius muscle lateral to the mouth. This can give a millimeter or more lift in the brow and lift and volume in the cheek and jaw line. Emface increases the size and strength of the muscle by up to 20 percent,” Dr. Welch said. “We can now take the facial muscles, especially on the forehead and cheek, and increase the tone, strength and size of the muscle. So you can make the muscle get younger. Just like the muscles in the body get flatter, atrophy and droop, so do the muscles in the face. Now we are able to tone it, strengthen it and make it larger which gives you facial volume. One of the things people lose as they age, is facial volume.”

Emface does not replace filler, it works with filler to achieve even better results.

“In combination with filler, you can actually give the face more volume by increasing the muscle size and strength. It’s a much more natural appearance because you are actually restoring that muscle to a younger, stronger state,” Dr. Welch explained.

The first four 20-minute sessions are scheduled one week apart, and the total cost is $2,500. You will see some results after a few treatments, but maximum results are about three months after the four sessions. Results can last up to one to two years. Patients can do a maintenance treatment every three months or an entire series one to two years later. One maintenance session is $500.

Kevin Welch, MD, is a boardcertified dermatologist with over 25 years’ experience. He is originally from East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, and his medical degree is from New York State University. Dr. Welch has been with The Dermatology and Laser Center since 1994. He is passionate about bringing the latest technology to Pensacola and his patients to achieve the best results possible.

MY EXPERIENCE

When I went to the Dermatology and Laser Center to learn more about Emface from Dr. Kevin Welch, I was able to do a 20-minute session and personally experience exactly how it works. It is amazing how Emface is so quick, easy and painless.

Mollie Cross assisted in hooking me up to the machine as Dr. Welch explained to me how the process works start to finish. When the machine began, it slowly warmed, and I started to feel a tingling sensation similar to a TENS unit. The sensation got stronger as Mollie found the right setting for my facial structure. It felt like I was getting a facial massage and doing a workout on my forehead and cheek muscles. During this process, I was just lying down, relaxed and warm under a blanket while learning all about this new technology.

Once my face was finished “pumping iron,” the patches were easily removed and I was on my way. When I left after the 20-minute session, you would never know I had anything done – no injections, no pain and no down time.

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.

Creagh Ekelund of Result Medical Spa and Permanent Makeup uses the Fibroblast Skin Treatment device on a client to tighten the skin.

local fare

A hot new workout joins the Gulf Coast Fitness Scene

By Allison McCrory • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

A fitness routine available 24/7, 365 days a year? More results in less time? Detoxification?

Most fitness practitioners would respond “yes, yes and yes” to those benefits, touted as byproducts of the latest exercise phenomena to hit Northwest Florida – HOTWORX.

The local HOTWORX franchises each feature seven saunas –seven-foot by nine-foot rooms that can fit up to three exercisers with regularly cycling virtual classes of many varieties, which are refreshed every three to four months to prevent boredom. Three levels of instruction – beginner, intermediate and advanced – are displayed in each video. Temperatures in the 120-degree range and infrared energy are added to classes such as yoga, barre, buns and Pilates. It’s dubbed by HOTWORX as a 3D workout fusing heat, exercise and infrared energy.

There are also saunas designated for high intensity interval training (HIIT) with the choice of three options. Exercisers can row, cycle or work out on an elliptical-type machine, explained Rita Lay, owner of a HOTWORX location on west Nine Mile Road, which hadn’t open yet at press time. Plus, each location features a Functional Exercise Zone (FX) complete with stability balls, dumbbells, kettlebells, battle ropes, a weight bench and a Nautilus Cable Machine.

“Combine the two sessions back-to-back and we affectionately call this HOTWORX bonfire!” said Lay, whose son will manage the family business moving into the quickly growing region thanks to an influx of residents from Navy Federal.

The Argo Village location opened in December and a Gulf Breeze location is projected to open in the spring, as is Lay’s HOTWORX location.

CONVENIENCE IS KEY

With busyness seemingly here to stay, HOTWORX’s convenience factor is popular. All classes are available throughout the day and night every day of the year.

Member Anastasia Reyes loves that she can drop in for a workout

“When infrared energy is absorbed into the skin during a workout, the deep penetration of up to 1.5 inches into the body causes positive things to happen at the cellular level. Infrared energy stimulates cellular activity to accelerate the oxidation of fat, speed up detoxification and increase the amount of calories burned during the training session.”

— Reagan Cannon, general manager at the Argo Village HOTWORX

Everyone is beautiful and unique in their own way. Embrace your beauty with rejuvenating and enhancing skin treatments.

At Redefyne, we redefine the standards of beauty by acknowledging the individual and all the aspects that make you extraordinary.

SERVICES

Brows & lashes, waxing, botox, fillers, chemical peels, microneedling, laser hair removal, facials, tatoo removal, vascular reduction, IV Therapy, B12/ LipoStat injections, body toning, and more.

FEATURING

Dr. Quintin Law, MD

Susan Pham, APRN

Elizabeth Baptista, APRN

Rita Lay is the owner of the Nine Mile Road location of HOTWORX and operates it along with family members James and Kyle.

any time of the day or night and on holidays. She also loves the assortment of choices.

“I enjoy HOTWORX because I get to choose a variety of workouts and time frames that accommodate my schedule – open to members 24 hours every day,” said Reyes, who works for a digital marketing and consulting company. Each day is different when choosing her workout, typically four or five times a week.

“My personal favorites are Barre None, cycling and the weight area,” she said. “This allows me to implement all of the fitness training I prefer: cardio, sauna workouts and weights. Saunas in and of themselves provide a wide variety of benefits, so HOTWORX is perfect for anyone who is looking for variety.”

Reagan Cannon, general manager at the Argo Village location, said clients often tuck their children in bed and come in for a workout while the other parent is home. She also sees hospital and prison employees who work unorthodox hours as well as a variety of other professionals.

A NEW KIND OF WORKOUT

In 2014, the HOTWORX founder invented the method and opened the original studio in 2017 in Oxford, Mississippi. Cannon said adding infrared energy to a workout

translates into a wealth of benefits.

“When infrared energy is absorbed into the skin during a workout, the deep penetration of up to 1.5 inches into the body causes positive things to happen at the cellular level. Infrared energy stimulates cellular activity to accelerate the oxidation of fat, speed up detoxification and increase the amount of calories burned during the training session,” she explained.

Lay listed muscle recovery, stress reduction, detoxification, lower blood pressure, improved circulation, increased calorie burn, cellulite reduction, skin rejuvenation, weight loss and even pain relief among the benefits of an infrared workout.

“The 3D training actually helps individuals who suffer from chronic pain caused by autoimmune disorders,” said Lay. “I have seen family members with these types of disorders benefit significantly from regular HOTWORX sessions.”

Regarding calorie usage, skeptics can simply check their workout trackers to note the protracted calorie burn – referred to as “after burn” by HOTWORX employees, noted Lay.

“Your body will be working to restore your body to its normal functioning state,” she explained.

ABOVE: Kiley Bolster Manning, owner of Wild Lemon, demonstrates using the Pilates reformer. RIGHT: Wild Lemon has several reformers for Pilates classes and offers mat classes as well.

BEND SO YOU DON’T BREAK body & soul

PILATES STRENGTHENS WHILE IMPROVING FLEXIBILITY

By Leah Seacrest • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

It is said, “bend so you don’t break.” There is no truer statement as it applies to moving our bodies. It runs parallel with the mantra, “move it, or lose it.”

The variety of exercises runs the gamut, but if you are looking to strengthen your core while improving your flexibility, the Pilates method could be for you!

The benefits of flexibility are essential in reducing the risk of injury and preventing muscular imbalances. Flexibility helps to improve overall balance as well as assists in reducing joint discomfort and strain. These benefits directly affect our functional abilities such as reaching, bending or stooping during daily tasks.

A strong core is also significantly important since the core muscles are used in almost everything we do. If your core is weak, you are more likely to experience back pain, various injuries and poor posture. If your core is strong, your back is better protected from injury, your balance improves and you will be stronger when conducting your day-to-day activities.

“The physical benefits are just the tip of the iceberg,” said Kiley Bolster Manning, owner and Comprehensively Certified Pilates Instructor at Wild Lemon. “The activation of your core muscles through mindful breathing and muscle control also improves balance and mobility, stimulates lymphatic drainage and improves circulation and lung capacity, which ultimately strengthen your immune system.”

Pilates was founded by Joseph Pilates. A German-born immigrant to Britain and then America, he devised the Pilates method as a new approach to exercise and body-conditioning in the1920s. His method included the use of equipment known as apparatus. The best-known piece of equipment is the Pilates reformer.

Over time, Pilates has evolved as several styles have emerged. The two main types often seen are mat Pilates, which requires little to no equipment, and reformer Pilates. Reformer Pilates provides a dynamic, full-body exercise focusing on flow. During Reformer classes, you will be taken through a series of exercises on the equipment.

Pilates does offer more than just fitness – it emphasizes a mind and body connection.

“One of the best benefits of this method is the emphasis on mindfulness and the pace of the classes,” Manning said. “By connecting your breath to every movement, you get into a flow state and every class becomes a moving meditation. It’s not often in today’s world that you spend an hour thinking only of your breath and your body, but this practice forces you to be completely present and to build your mind-body connection. When class ends, you feel equally mentally relaxed and physically invigorated.”

Considered low impact, Pilates is for everyone. Manning comments that the biggest misconception about Pilates is someone must be “super fit or flexible to practice.” She also states that although she has students from “every background, size, age and ability, that it’s thought to only be for women and dancers.”

“I opened Wild Lemon six years ago and never planned to teach. Five years ago, I was in a car accident that resulted in three herniated discs in my low back. I found that the more I practiced Pilates and strengthened my core, the better my back (and entire body) felt. I started digging in and learning more about the method and the anatomy of the human body, and the more I learned, the more I wanted to share this method with everybody. It feels like a gift to be able to give people access to their bodies and to teach students the tools to improve their mind-body connection and quality of life.

— Kiley Bolster Manning, owner and Comprehensively Certified Pilates Instructor at Wild Lemon

Despite popular marketing, Pilates can benefit men as much as women. Manning herself found the benefits of Pilates after a car accident.

“I opened Wild Lemon six years ago and never planned to teach. Five years ago, I was in a car accident that resulted in three herniated discs in my low back. I found that the more I practiced Pilates and strengthened my core, the better my back (and entire body) felt. I started digging in and learning more about the method and the anatomy of the human body, and the more I learned, the more I wanted to share this method with everybody. It feels like a gift to be able to give people access to their bodies and to teach students the tools to improve their

mind-body connection and quality of life.”

Looking to get started on your Pilates journey?

Manning gives this tip: “Keep an open mind and commit to trying several classes over a few weeks to truly get the sense of the benefits of Pilates. After a few classes, you’ll be mindfully engaging your core when you are performing everyday activities and making time to stretch throughout the day if you sit at a desk.”

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.

ABOUT WILD LEMON

Wild Lemon offers Pilates Equipment and Pilates Mat classes, as well as fusion classes such as Pilates Flow (Pilates/Yoga class) and Pilates Plus (Pilates/TRX class).

There are two locations in East Hill. The Scott Street studio offers Pilates Equipment classes on the Pilates Reformer, the 12th Avenue studio offers Pilates Mat and low impact group fitness classes that complement your Pilates practice. There is also a virtual studio, Every Body Movement by Wild Lemon (Ebmovement.com), so you can practice Pilates at home.

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

D O W N T O W N

P E N S A C O L A D I N I N G

greatsouthernrestaurants.com

profile

Briana Knight provides a place to embrace your authentic self

By Magi Thomley Williams • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Disko Lemonade Yoga owner Briana Knight said she felt out of place her whole life and experienced social anxiety as a kid. Knight was nineteen and pregnant with her daughter, Melody, when she moved from Pensacola to Pittsburgh to be with her mom and figure out her next steps.

She pivoted from songwriter/guitarist playing at locations like Hub Stacey’s, FloraBama, Blues Café, Intermission and World of Beer in Pensacola to enrolling in prelaw in Pittsburgh. While there, she took a prenatal yoga class on a whim where she felt weird and awkward. She left the class and swore she would never do yoga again after the weirdest experience ever. Now she owns a yoga studio. Life is like that! Knight learned about entrepreneurship as a kid working in her aunt’s small business selling ice cream and souvenirs on Perdido Key and in a variety of ventures owned by her mother. Later, she and her mom started a business together. But severe illness ignited a passion for the business of wellness.

Disko Lemonade

Knight was hospitalized while pregnant with her son, Landon. She had pneumonia and was a physical wreck from working 12- and 14-hour days striving for business success. She spent the last month of her pregnancy on IV medication to combat severe infection when she woke to the idea “life just can’t be about work.”

Knight earned certifications in fitness and nutrition, became Beyond Barre Fitness certified and opened Beyond Barre Pensacola. She later enrolled in a yoga fitness course at Glow Yoga in Mobile, Alabama, where the training included reading “The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment” by Eckhart Tolle. The book led her to a passion for yoga and she was “awakened to the reality of life,” she recalls.

The wellness arena didn’t offer a fit for her, so Knight decided to create one.

“I had a vision, but no money, no way, no how,” she said.

She reached out to Quint Studer, someone she had never met. Studer mentored her and agreed to help her start Disko Lemonade Yoga at his Southtowne Apartments in Pensacola.

“Quint Studer is a remarkable human being. Our community is lucky to have him. Receiving his generosity and kindness changed my life,” Knight said.

The name Disko Lemonade is from the song “Sex and Candy” by Marcy Playground. There, Knight has intentionally cultivated a community that embraces acceptance as evidenced in the diversity of her classrooms. Students are of “all ages and backgrounds: attorneys, college kids, construction workers,” all mingling together. The concept took roots with Knight bringing “her authentic vibration to the table” and is supported by an amazing staff who are an authentic and vulnerable group of teachers with life purpose that encourages others to be the same.

“The intent is for the vibe to be genuinely authentic, comfortable. It’s important to cultivate a place where students can relax without judgement

or competition, opening the channels to receive all the benefits of physical and mindful practice,” she explained.

The studio is home to over twenty classes each week with about fifteen instructors and subs offering sessions. Knight describes the instructors as “genuine, selfless, committed to students and student experience.” They offer a level of relatability in class that makes students feel connected to teachers and others in class. Teachers share lessons from their own lives that make them relatable, vulnerable and accessible for students.

An accepting environment was her goal after Knight attended studios where she felt authenticity and acceptance weren’t primary objectives. She knew there was value in being comfortable enough to be vulnerable and open to receiving all the benefits of physical and mindful practice.

While she expects and enjoys a certain level of freedom from business ownership, Knight explains there is a misconception about owning a business.

“You build it they will come is a lie.”

Building a business may require years of all-consuming work, but her team allows her to be flexible. She recommends all entrepreneurs read “The E-myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber to learn more about business strategy.

Knight also partners with Torri Sunshine for a lighthearted self-help podcast called Sunny Lemons, @sunnylemonspodcast on Instagram, and available on all major platforms. Disko Lemonade Yoga classes can be scheduled on the fitDEGREE app or at DiskoLemonade.com. Visit the website for information on pricing, announcements, special events and yoga teacher training. No judgement, no competition, just a place to embrace one’s authentic self.

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

Makeup

Dawn Hammil of 10th

Avenue Hair Designs, 1000 E. Cervantes St., Pensacola; 850-433-5207; 10thavenuehair.com

Shopping list: Ula Johnson navy dress, Scout; Enewton bracelets, Bluetique; necklace, Bluetique; wedding ring set, Jeweler’s Trade Shop.

Photo Location Downtown Pensacola home of Patricia Mills

personal style

Courtney Fitzsimmons

Don Alans Menswear co-owner is stylin’ in paradise

By Magi Thomley Williams • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

From a degree in radio, TV and mass communications to a career in hospitality, including a stint at Disney, to a thwarted plan to purchase a restaurant in Atlanta, Courtney Fitzsimmons has followed a divergent path that now has her positioned in the exciting world of men’s fashion. She believes she has benefitted from the varying experiences, and said, “Everything you do in your life leads you to where you are.”

Fitzsimmons and her husband, Bryan, bought Don Alans menswear in downtown Pensacola in November 2019, just months before COVID shut down the business for seven weeks.

“The COVID shutdown was scary,” she said. “It does help being in a community where we are so supported. People called and bought gift cards or ordered custom clothing from existing measurements in our files.”

“We won’t carry lines carried in mall or department stores,” Fitzsimmons said. “Our clientele wants to wear something unique –higher quality, more well-made, better fabrics.”

The store offers some Italian lines that can only be purchased through a brick-and-mortar location. For example, Emanuel Berg is only sold in the states through stores located in the U. S. To keep up with the changes in men’s clothing, the couple attends shows in Chicago and Dallas to bring education home to Pensacola – the same trends new to Los Angeles and New York markets.

Much of Don Alans’ specialty business

comes from custom orders. Offerings include custom suits, shirts, trousers and custom sport coats. Men love to come in a get something custom to them. Profiles are saved for all gentlemen who come in, so mothers, wives, sisters and friends come in and easily shop for the men in their lives. Profiles include sizes, likes and other important notes, so women can be confident they will get something their men will like. Shoppers are asked about occasion, age, occupation, sports interests, etc. to help select the perfect gift for that loved one, which is difficult sometimes.

“We make it really easy for them,” Fitzsimmons said.

The team even offers champagne to ladies when they come by themselves or with the men in their lives.

Customer service is the foundation of success, Fitzsimmons believes.

“You can learn all the other things.”

She grasped the business easily and finds learning about men’s clothing exciting. She doesn’t mind that people are sometimes surprised that she’s a female owner of a men’s clothing store.

“I’m not offended by that at all. I’m actually proud. It’s unique. I get to work with my husband. I get to work with my oldest son, Sam. Maybe when my youngest son, Jackson gets older, he’ll work there too. We’re right down the street from Bryan’s parents. We love our business, but first and foremost is family.”

The Fitzsimmonses have tried to honor

Shopping list: Marie Oliver dress, Bluetique.

the founder of Don Alans, while also making it their own.

“I know that Don Alans was built by Don Alan work,” Fitzsimmons said. “We’ve changed it in a way where we’re not taking away the classic part of Don, but we’ve introduced our stamp on things. So, people come in and they want to see us directly.”

Initially, she found it intimidating to take over a store from someone who owned it for 21 years, but she quickly won over long-time customers.

“Keep being you. Be the kind person you are, and they will come around,” she said.

Fitzsimmons has found being a business owner an exciting challenge.

“I’d love to advise women that are thinking of going into business on their own: you can do it. It’s so much fun. If you think you can’t do it, you are wrong. You are wrong. If you think that it’s going to be too much of a challenge and if you think it’s going to be too hard, you are wrong. It’s so rewarding.”

The business is supportive of many charities and Fitzsimmons is a member of IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area. Some other events and charities they support are Art of Fashion, Fur Ball and Pensacola Little Theatre. Near and dear to her heart is Autism Speaks and other organizations that support families affected by autism. She has a niece and nephew who have autism and knows firsthand the struggles that families of autistic children face.

Like many locals, Fitzsimmons feels like she lives in paradise. The family has made wonderful friends at Don Alans; customers have become friends.

“I have met some of the most amazing people that we are very, very good friends with. I’m very tight with the ladies and they are some of my best friends in the whole world. I feel very blessed. I thank the Lord every single day for our blessings.”

Shopping list: Xirena dress, Gray Boutique.

To schedule a date for indulgence with yourself or with a partner, visit Still Waters Day & Medical Spa at stillwatersmedspa.com or phone 850-432-6772. Enjoy!

body & soul

Daytime Date

AT STILL WATERS DAY & MEDICAL SPA

Relax and reconnect with a couples massage

By Magi Thomley Williams • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

There’s nothing like a daytime date with your significant other and a couples massage is the perfect day date. I enjoyed that opportunity recently with my husband when we took advantage of a rainy weekday morning to enjoy a little together-time being pampered at Still Waters Day & Medical Spa in downtown Pensacola.

The experience started with check-in and being shown to separate locker areas to change into snuggly robes and practical slides. Next, we were treated to our choice of spa beverages and the soothing tinkle of falling waters while we awaited our service providers in a plush, common waiting room.

We were each greeted by our personal massage therapist; Kara Soulai, LMT, took care of me while Natosha Cruz, LMT, attended my husband, Jackson. We were then escorted to adjoining massage areas where our feet were immersed in a warm soak aptly described as the Healing Waters foot ritual.

The couples massages take place in a single room with our individual therapists, where the tension we carried was replaced by relaxation and rapport. Still Waters massage options include classic, hot stone, deep tissue or a combination of two. I opted for a deep tissue massage while Jackson chose the classic. We each added lavender aromatherapy to enhance the experience. Other spa services available to us were facial treatments, waxing, makeup and more.

Once we were settled onto our warmed massage tables, ensconced in luxurious blankets, we both

faded away into our own thoughts while our therapists worked pure magic. Soulai made the stress knots in my shoulders and neck completely disappear – a feat seldom accomplished in my decades of having massages. While he denies it, I’m pretty sure I heard snoring coming from my husband’s massage table. We both felt spoiled and at peace at the end of our treatments.

After our session, we were each presented with our personalized Still Waters Wellness Plan. The plan is unique to each guest and includes a set of recommendations on products, services and tips to maintain the results of services. The plan includes this advice for everyone: Try a variety of treatments to experience different benefits and approaches. Be aware of seasonal changes in your skin, body and mental outlook and choose treatments that address those concerns.

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa offers many enticing resources to enhance healing and calm the mind and body. I plan to visit again, alone, to investigate the medical spa treatments. Maybe some state-of-the-art anti-aging medical treatments. Shhhh – don’t tell!

Sharing a daytime date being spoiled together may be just the opportunity to re-engage and reconnect that your relationship needs! Taking time for some “Touch Therapy” with someone you care for creates an occasion to contemplate and appreciate each other. After all, what’s more important than spending time with the ones you love and making them feel valued, including yourself?

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

MISSY ROGERS profile

Bringing hope to Northwest Florida’s disabled community

By Allison McCrory • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

There are a lot of things that ARC Gateway Executive Director Missy Rogers likes – giving dignity to the disabled, playing sports, attending Blue Wahoos games and acting in murder mysteries.

But there’s one that she abhors – stagnation.

“I’m a firm believer in personal and professional growth. I don’t believe in being stagnant or in status quo, so it’s constant change, constant improvement. I try to be a visionary and a forward thinker so I can see what’s on the horizon and get ahead of the game. I like to be proactive rather than reactive,” said Rogers, a Gulf Breeze resident.

ARC Gateway serves 1,200 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

It is a community where trends are constantly evolving. So, it’s important to Rogers to keep abreast and ahead to offer her clients every opportunity.

“I don’t ever want them to have a personal goal or have a vision for themselves that we can’t or won’t help them bring to fruition,” she explained.

A LIFETIME COMMITTED TO THE DISABILITIES COMMUNITY

When Rogers took over as ARC’s executive director in December 2014, she already had a wealth of experience with the disabilities community from her job in Fort Walton with a group home where she advanced to chief operating officer.

But Navarre relatives were beckoning.

“My husband’s family was originally from this area and were retiring. My mother-in-law got each of her children here one at a time,” said Rogers, surprised that she got the job at ARC. “When this opportunity became available, I decided to put my hat in the ring per se and the rest is history. I never really thought I would have gotten it. But I took a chance on this place and they took a chance on me.”

In the more than eight years since she took the helm at ARC, living up to one’s potential seems to be a theme.

“We have a philosophy of work that everybody can work in some way, shape or form,” Rogers said.

The importance of that sense of purpose became evident when group homes were on lockdown during COVID. At first, group home residents woke up early and got dressed, but eventually that fell away and there was regression.

Now, they are again contributing to the community and reaping the resulting pride.

Among the jobs ARC clients perform are Mardi Gras bead recycling, bag assembly for the Studer brand, document shredding and concrete parking bumper and plant sleeve construction.

They’ve won some of the highest scores in the state for maintenance of the Interstate 10 welcome center. They also operate the gift shop at West Florida Hospital.

“It’s a purpose. It’s the reason they wake up every morning. It’s somewhere for them to go,” Rogers said. “It’s get a job, keep a job and advance in your job. That’s kind of our motto.”

For the children served by ARC, that job is active play where the child is soaking up physical and social skills.

Creative approaches with children including involving entire families and a unified approach among therapies have translated into stellar results for children served by ARC.

Nationally, one in three children who participate in programs similar to ARC’s avoid special education.

“We typically run somewhere between 60 and 65 percent. We’re well ahead of the game. We do great work here.”

EMBRACING THE CITY SHE CALLS HOME

Besides spearheading care for the community’s disabled, Rogers loves sports.

“I was always a swimmer and a softball player growing up. We joke in my family that it’s not spring, summer, winter, fall. It’s basketball, baseball, football, swimming. Those are the four seasons,” said the Virginia native and mother to a son who graduated from FSU and a daughter who is a senior in high school. “My daughter’s a competitive gymnast so I’m living vicariously through her.”

She also loves some of the local activities here in Pensacola.

“I love going to a Blue Wahoos game and of course Gallery Night,” she said.

She channels murder mystery characters with her troupe Act 4 Murder, performing at various Northwest Florida venues.

“It’s such a fun, close, tight-knit group and we have a good time.”

Speaking of mysteries, at the end of a long day, curling up with the latest John Grisham book is a sweet escape before returning to the community who comprise Rogers’ life calling.

“They want to be happy, they want to be healthy, they want to be safe, they want to be loved and I just want to provide that for them in the best way possible.”

out&about

Women’s Empowerment Awards

Junior League of Pensacola held its annual Women’s Empowerment Awards on March 8 at the Museum of Commerce. The league formally recognized and celebrated the outstanding contributions of women and young ladies in the Pensacola area. The awards were given to individuals who have sparked change and improvement within the community and beyond. The awards originally began with the aim to build up women who display the traits of what it truly means to be a woman leader in the Pensacola community.

Photos by Lakesa Davis

Veronica Dias, Crystal Berkley, Stacy Robello, Becca McKeithen

Savannah Bailey, Nicole Williams, Jordan McPherson, Katie Lepore

Allie Hephill, Jesse Kelly, Katherine Creel, Kirsten Langley

Malyana Jackson, Sarah Roberson, Katelyn Logan, Jacquie Bowlinger

Lusharon Wiley, Malika Godwin

Kate Treick, Kelly MacLeod, Magi Thomley Williams, Kolleen Chesley

Jo Rich, Ebony Cornish, Tara Lewis, Angel Bradley, Shay Carter

Midian Penberg, Sarena Rego, Nayara Orellano

Camille Bonner, Magi Thomley Williams

Arianna Hawkins, Latasha Harris, Aniaya Hawkins

Donecia Griffin, Rhonda Robinson

Kenny Chambers, Tylynne Robbins

Laura Swann, Patty Veal

Carolyn Grawi, Christina Doss, Keisha Gianey

Jenifer Richardson, Sandra Johnson

Veronica Seymour, Katherine Creel

Stacey Boyd, Carol Stuart

out&about Women in Leadership

This year’s Women in Leadership Conference at the University of West Florida had a recordbreaking 900 attendees, in person and online. The goal of the conference was to “connect participants with ideas and best practices, recognized thought leaders, resources and solutions, and peers.” It proved to be a rewarding time of inspiration and networking.

Lt. Col. Nicole Bastian, Admiral Sandra Stosz, Admiral Ann Barnhardt, General Leslie Maher

Connie Bookman, Hong Potomski

Sandra Donaldson, Michelle Salzman

Jen Grove

Madrina Ciano

Teri Haggerty, Chastity Tisdale, Jordan Conti, Shatandra Morris, Kimberly Aderholdt, Brandi Gomez

Betsy Smith, Magi Williams

Kristie Tobias

Kara Bloomberg, Kara Cardona, Lusharon Wiley, Jill Stinemetz

out&about

Art of Fashion

Covenant Care’s 17th annual Art of Fashion was held on May 6 on the Museum Plaza grounds. Attendees embraced the Studio 54 theme and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails before local celebrity models took the runway wearing fashions from S & K Boutique, Dillard’s, Randall’s Formal Wear, Bridal Loft, Intracoastal Outfitters, Jen’s Designer Deals, SoBo Boutique, Don Alan’s, Indigeaux, Gray Boutique, Pure Pilates, Lee Tracy Boutique, Bluetique and Reboot & Co.

Photos by Lakesha Davis

Donna Dickey, Lauren Rowe, Brenda Newman, Julie Zabcik

Donna Vandermeide, Wanda Torrence, Tina Sarrah, Debbie Dotson

Suzanne Manziek, Susan Bonsignore, Jennifer Wells

Rebecca Oberto, Roy Oberto

Lindsey Coldwell, Liz Pelt

Heather Hobbs, Jennifer Richardson, Therese Ritchie, Julie Hasenbein

Shannon Evans, Madrina Ciano, Jo Rich Wendy Smith, Daniel Smith

Jessica Perez, Jeremy Ruffin

Kristie Tobias, Grace Tegenkamp

Katie Bosso, Kelly Rozier, Lindsay Rozier

Claire Montgomery, Monifa Love, Whitney Adam, Tiffany King

Laura Griffin, Katherine Creel

Kristin Bouchard, Addie Murdoch, Annette BanKich

Trudy Comerford, Suzie West, Kelly Aeppli-Campbell, Lorie Howerton

David Richards, Katlin Forshee, Leah Richards, Jane Lauter, Pete Lauter, Emily Ley

Leah McCreary, Christina Myerski, Lori Hoskins

2023 Northwest Florida Heart Ball

Gather

Garden

5.11.2023 | 5:11 p.m.

5eleven Palafox

2023 Co-Chairpersons: Gaye Overholtz & Addie Murdoch

Evening’s Attire: Coastal casual

Entertainment:

Dinner by:

Ashante Floyd “The Mad Violinist” & DJ Ramsey

James Briscione, Dan Dunn, David Penniman, Jack Williams & Edward Lordman

Information: George.Coolbaugh@heart.org or visit nwflheartball.heart.org

locally sponsored by

Lewis Bear changed my life her perspective

In the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” George Bailey feels his life has been worthless. Then we are shown what a difference one good man makes – how awful Pottersville would have been! The angel, Clarence, shows George all the lives he touched and what the world would be like if he did not exist.

Well, this is Pensacola, not Bedford Falls, but in my humble opinion, Lewis Bear is our George Bailey. Look around and you can’t help but see all the good he and his family have done for our city – the new Baptist Hospital, the Downtown YMCA, the Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research and the Foo Foo Festival to name a few. The thousands of people who showed up to pay homage at his visitation and funeral are a testament to the love and respect people feel for him.

I’m no Clarence, that’s for sure, so I can’t show you how he touched so many lives. I can only tell you how he changed the trajectory of my life.

I was born six of seven kids with a single mom for most of my childhood and going to college was not a given, it was a goal. I studied hard in high school and earned an academic scholarship to Spring Hill College, but it didn’t include room and board. After high school graduation, I started my lifeguard job at Pensacola Racquet Club – seven days a week, nine to five. They wanted to hire a boy because the guy who lifeguarded the previous summer also vacuumed the pool, backwashed the filters, tested the PH, added the chemicals and scrubbed the tile, while on duty for the same $6 per hour. I needed the job, so I agreed to do all the pool maintenance just like the guy before me.

But according to my calculations, even working 7 days/week at $6/hour wasn’t enough for the room and board bill due in August, so I got a job waitressing. At 5 p.m., I took a shower at the pool and drove straight to Play It Again Sam’s five nights a week. The tips sure helped make up for those rainy days that the pool closed and I made no money.

On Thursday nights, a group of men would come in from the Lewis Bear Company. Mostly salesmen from the grocery distribution division, they were a fun bunch – always kind to me and good tippers. They asked why my hair was always

wet and learned I worked two jobs saving up for my college bill. By mid-summer, they would ask for a table in my section. They told me they knew people in Mobile and if I gave them my phone number, they would pull some strings and help me get a real job so I wouldn’t have to work so hard in the summers. I hesitated, thinking maybe their motives weren’t pure, but they seemed like good, caring people (yeah, right, their boss is going to help someone he doesn’t even know…when pigs fly; but a girl can dream).

Two weeks before I left for college, the phone rang and it was a man named Greg from Mobile. He told me Lewis Bear called him and told him to hire me. In a very gruff, slightly peeved voice, he added, “And when Lewis Bear asks me to do something, I do it.”

PIGS DO FLY!

He wanted me to drive to Mobile for an interview, but I told him I had to work every day at the pool. He said he thought I was a waitress and I said that’s my night job. He asked if I had ever saved anyone’s life and I said only once (Ryan Greenhut but that’s another story). He said he’d pay me $10/hour, but I’d have to work hard – setting up product displays and endcaps in grocery stores all over Alabama. And long hours when I’d have to set up a new store.

“Like, you can’t just leave and go to a sorority party – you have to stay until the job is done,” he almost shouted. I told him about the pool maintenance and how I was used to working 14 hours straight, five days a week so I could handle it. He said he’d never hired anyone over the phone before, but the Lewis Bear guys promised him I was the right person for the job.

Thanks to Lewis Bear I got my big break in this world. I liked the job so much I changed my major from Accounting to Business. I worked hard for Greg’s company, he wrote me a stellar letter of recommendation, and my work experience and magna cum laude grades led me to an entry level position at Procter and Gamble upon graduation. Two years later, I was hired away by Revlon to be a sales manager. I worked my way up to regional manager and had a successful career.

Sometimes all it takes is one person to believe in you – and to make that phone call on your behalf. Lewis Bear made that phone call, and I am forever grateful.

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.