Pensacola Magazine, December 2025

Pensacola

Local

Pallin

Festive

Kelly Oden Executive Editor

EDITOR’S NOTE Note

Obesity, diabetes and heart disease became death sentences for too many people battling Covid. While genetics predispose some to these illnesses, many can be managed or eradicated by lifestyle changes. I’d like to focus on making healthy choices while still enjoying the bad-for-you good stuff in moderation.

Passion and Joy

PENSACOLA

first responders and hospital workers? Thank you for putting yourselves on the front lines to keep us as safe as possible. Also, a big shout out to all the teachers out there scrambling to put together online lessons to keep our kids engaged and learning instead of worrying about things they cannot control. We appreciate you!

incredible special-needs pets and their owners and she discovered that while these precious babies may take a little more care, the love they give in return is worth every second.

I don’t know about you, but 2020 offered far too little of either of these to me. I was so consumed with my mom’s illness and then with surviving the grief of her loss and the anxiety of the pandemic and the sorrow of so many national news stories that I took little time for myself. This year, I hope to explore creative and personal endeavors that help me rediscover myself and discover new outlets for personal expression.

Every December, I am blown away by the lightning-fast passing of yet another year. You’d think I’d be used to it by now, but I am always caught off guard. As I find myself gearing up for this year’s holiday season, I am also thinking about more significant passages of time, namely my daughter’s upcoming 18th birthday. How did this happen? It was just yesterday that we were celebrating her first Christmas and just starting our own holiday traditions. Even though she’s nearly grown, we keep many of our traditions going each year. Elf on the Shelf? Of course! Except now Elfie shows up bearing small gifts of lip gloss, hair ties and candy, and she is far less naughty now that she has matured a bit. Reading the Robert Sabuda Christmas pop up books that Grandma gave us? When I can find them! Cookies and carrots for Rudolph and Santa? You bet! And that milk will be gone in the morning with only cookie crumbs and carrot tops left on the plate. You might think it’s silly, but we love traditions in our house, and I hope we are still doing them when my daughter is 40! As we decorate our tree this year, these memories will surely be flowing through my mind and I will be grateful for all of them, even if they sometimes tug at my heart strings more than I think I can bear.

If exotic animals are more your thing, head on over to the brand spanking new and significantly enlarged Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The new location features all the hands-on, up close interaction as the previous location plus added attractions, amenities and experiences that will make for a wonderful family day out.

Procrastination

Stay safe, stay healthy and stay strong, Pensacola! you equally— pandemic stress, and things provide had a kitty

On that note, I encourage you to read our COVID-19 Resource Guide, which provides resources for food, business, community and more. The ever-changing nature of this crisis necessitates that I mention that these resources may or may not be available to you by the time you read this issue. I hope it will provide a place to start, some ideas or some inspiration either way.

If you’re interested in conservation, check out Dakota Parks story on local Panhandle Rooftop Nesting Biologist, Rebekah Snyder. Through her work with Audubon Florida, Snyder helps to ensure local shorebirds have safe nesting spaces in an increasingly overpopulated region.

I also hope to attend as many holiday events as possible this year. It’s hard to be stressed out when enjoying the twinkling lights, decorated trees, holiday jingles and general good cheer at events like Winterfest, the Christmas parade and Nutcracker. In that spirit, we looked high and low for all the best Holiday Happenings this season. There’s always something fun going on in December in Pensacola, so we hope you join us at some of these fantastic, whimsical and heartwarming celebrations. Check out our Holiday Happenings beginning on page 24.

While many people made glorious headway on home improvement and personal projects in 2020, I did not. I did not organize anything. I did not fix anything. I did not learn a language or a new skill. Nothing. But that’s ok, too. I’m still here. That’s an accomplishment. However, in 2021, I’d like to lighten my load and empty my house of much of the clutter and unnecessary junk that fills it. It’s time to make room for something new.

All of this, plus a few DIY pet treat recipes and some good news from the Florida legislature regarding protection for pets in abusive situations.

You may also notice that we have some nonpandemic related stories in this issue. We made the call to include already planned articles that might still be helpful, relevant or enjoyable for our readers. We hope you find them useful.

If you are anything like me, you might need a little help when planning your holiday décor. Don’t fear, my friends. We have brought you some inspiration and tips from Pensacola’s master florist and decorator extraordinaire Shannon Pallin of Fiore. Shannon combines her eye for style with seasonal trends, personal touches and few surprises to create her holiday design philosophy for 2025. Get inspired on page 21.

As for us, Pensacola Magazine has been published under one title or another for more than 40 years. We have no plans on changing that. We will continue to publish and to bring you all the information we can for as long as we can. Please reach out to us with story ideas, inspiration or just a quick hello. We are all working from home and we are missing our water cooler conversations.

So, turn off the news, put down your phone and enjoy these heartwarming tales and adorable of photos of local animals and the folks who care for them. When you’re done, give your kitty a little catnip and throw your dog a bone. It’s these simple pleasures that will keep us all sane.

In this issue, we’ve covered all of these topics and more to help readers shift their own focus in 2021. We hope you enjoy. Here’s to your health!

As you plan your holiday decor, we also hope you will take a little time to consider those who struggle with food insecurity. Far too many families across Northwest Florida struggle to put food on the table day to day, and the holiday season only exacerbates their struggle. We’ve talked with a couple of extraordinary groups working hard to make sure everyone (furry friends included) has enough to eat during the holidays and all year long. We hope you will consider supporting their missions.

Wishing you a very happy holiday season full of love and laughter. See you next year!

Kelly Oden

Kelly

Kelly

The Curious World of Wine

By Hilary Towns

Let's Mull it Over

Acrossmillennia and continents, wine has been at the center of winter feasts, solstice rituals and holiday celebrations. From clay amphorae filled with spiced and fermented grape juice to steaming mugs of mulled wine held between mittened hands at Christmas markets, wine-based beverages have shaped how cultures mark the turn of the year.

First, from one of the oldest winemaking regions on earth, Georgian winter rituals revolved around qvevri, giant clay vessels buried underground. During cold months, families would heat young red wine with local herbs, honey and dried fruit. This became the essence of supra, a long traditional feast known for its prolific toasts. With a potential 8,000 year history, we can attribute this tradition to the many festive refreshments that have kept so many winters warm. Even in Florida, the coziness of a warm drink cannot be underestimated.

Next, the Romans contributed to the revelous end of year spirit with wine mulled with honey, pepper, bay leaves, saffron and dates. Conditum paradoxum was the name, which translates roughly to ‘Spiced wine surprise.’ It was served during winter feasts such as Saturnalia, from 497 B.C. to approximately A.D. 500. For one to seven days, school, court and business were suspended for raucous traditions of feasting, gift giving and diminished social hierarchies. Its legacy survives in modern mulled wine, but the Roman version was sweeter, thicker and more intensely aromatic.

In the Middle Ages, kings, knights and apothecaries alike chose hypocras, a spiced, sweetened wine strained through a Hippocrates sleeve, a water filter invented by Hippocrates that was very similar to a Chemex coffee filter, except made from cloth instead of paper. Cinnamon, ginger, grains of paradise and sugar transformed wine into a luxurious medicinal tonic and a hallmark of winter celebrations. Its popularity spread from France to England, where it was a staple at Yuletide banquets and Twelfth Night celebrations.

Roman influence in the Nordic region introduced the concept of warm, spiced wine. Before commercial glögg became a Christmasmarket staple, they mixed wine or mead with warming spices to fortify themselves through long, dark winters. Some versions included aquavit, a distilled grain or potato spirit that is also typically spiced for flavor. Aquavit was used as medicine as early as the 15th century. With its stronger constitution, it added an additional layer of warmth to the early spiced wine. Today, aquavit flavor must be dominated by caraway and dill. This proto-glögg became part of winter feasts like Jul, a pre-Christian solstice celebration that emphasized community, storytelling and endurance.

Wine is a year-round Jewish ritual element for the Kiddush blessing of Shabbat and holidays. While there is archaeological evidence in Jerusalem from the 6th century B.C. of wine with vanilla added, it was not until the spice route was established that historic communities in the Levant and later North Africa and

Europe prepared winter versions of it for Hanukkah and Sabbath enhanced with cinnamon, clove or warmed honey.

While certainly not in current fashion, the comfort of the smell and the warmth of the liquid cannot be denied. The tradition endures. Glühwein anchors Europe’s Christmas markets. Each region has its authentic variation. In Germany, citrus and clove dominate; while in Austria, the wine tends to be drier and vanilla leads the profile. The ritual is as important as the recipe. Cold air, wooden stalls, twinkling lights and communal warmth being the hallmarks of the season.

In the United Kingdom and the United States, mulled wine is the descendent of Roman and medieval spiced wines. It was a hallmark of Victorian Christmas. Today, it often features red wine, oranges, cinnamon sticks, star anise and perhaps a splash of brandy. It is very adaptable and can be made on the stove, in a slow cooker, or in a communal punch bowl; making it an easy offering for winter gatherings.

In the United States independently, holiday wine punches range from New England cranberry-mulled sangrias to California citrusdriven rosé punches. These beverages endure because they reflect regional agriculture and American creativity. In the Southwest, pomegranate and prickly pear make their way into the blend. In the Pacific Northwest, spiced pinot noir is often used as the base. In the South, we love sweet, bourbon-kissed punches.

Spain has its version in vino caliente and hot cider-wine hybrids. In northern Spain, especially in the Basque region, winter festivals feature heated blends of wine, cider and spices. Also known as vino especiado, these drinks honor both local apple orchards and vineyards. The festive atmosphere with street processions, tambourines and late-night parties captures Spain’s love for blending tradition with exuberance.

While historically rooted, modern glögg has become a cultural event in its own right. Scandinavian households host glögg parties throughout Advent, serving wine simmered with cardamom, almonds, raisins and sometimes fortified with port or vodka. It’s not just a drink. It’s a social season that blends hygge, hospitality and winter coziness.

The only trick to the perfect concoction is to keep it from boiling while heating to retain the strength of the spirits. Remember, alcohol has a lower boiling point than water.

So this season, let us experiment! Raise a toast and invite a friend for a relaxed and comforting treat with a world of tradition behind it.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle sweet red wine

• 3 oranges

• 21 whole cloves

• 11 whole star anise

• 8 cinnamon sticks

• 1 inch fresh ginger (peeled)

• 3 green cardamom pods

• 10 black peppercorns

• 3 ounces aged rum

• 3 ounces fresh squeezed orange juice

• Honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Peel 2 oranges, avoiding the pith.

2. Add red wine, orange peel, 3 cloves, 5 star anise, 2 cinnamon sticks, ginger, cardamom and peppercorns to stainless steel or ceramic saucepan.

3. Gentle heat to just under a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes without simmering.

4. While wine is infusing, slice remaining orange. Make 6 quarter slices for garnishes. Stud each quarter with 3 cloves.

5. Add rum and remove from heat. Add orange juice. Adjust sweetness with honey, if desired.

6. Serve in Irish coffee mugs. Garnish with studded orange quarters, cinnamon stick and star anise.

Made With Love

Edible Christmas Gifts

By Morgan Cole

It’s no secret that good food is the key to just about anyone’s heart, and when it comes to gift-giving, nothing beats a tasty homemade treat that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious.

A homemade food gift is something everyone is sure to appreciate, especially those who love to cook. We’ve gathered some simple and creative ideas to delight everyone on your list—from infused olive oils and zesty citrus salt to festive holiday cookies and spicy hot cocoa. Not only are these homemade treats fun to make, they also serve as the perfect gift for teachers, coworkers, family and friends. Dress up your treats in creative packaging, finish with festive ribbons and a personalized tag, and your homemade creations are sure to be the most eyecatching—and irresistible—gifts under the tree. Both thoughtful and easy to make, here are a few of our favorite edible holiday gift ideas that are sure to delight everyone on your list.

Mason Jar Sugar Cookies

Servings: 1 quart-size Mason jar

Ingredients

In the Mason Jar

• 1 (17.5 ounce) package sugar cookie mix

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps cookies hold their shape)

• Small craft ornament (for sprinkles)

• Holiday sprinkles

• Small holiday cookie cutter (if desired)

Add in Later

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted butter)

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. For sprinkle-filled ornament: Pour sprinkles into a food safe, or cleaned and completely dried, small clear ornament.

2. In the Mason jar: Dump the entire sugar cookie mix into the jar. No need to compress it. Add in the flour on top. Seal the jar, add a ribbon with a miniature whisk (if desired), a miniature cookie cutter (if desired), and a small sprinklefilled ornament. Attach a free printable recipe attachment (or the following directions).

3. Attach recipe: Preheat the oven to 350 F. Add the Mason jar mix, melted butter, egg and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface until a soft dough forms. Cut with cookie cutters and place one inch apart on a parchment lined sheet pan. If desired, add sprinkles on top before baking. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until edges are light golden. Cool for 2 minutes on sheet pan before moving to cooling rack. Recipe courtesy of Julie Berry

Ingredients

• 5-6 whole grade “A” Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans

• 375 milliliters of vodka (375 ml bottle of Tito’s Handmade Vodka)

Instructions

1. Split open each of the vanilla beans to expose seeds.

2. Drop whole vanilla beans into a clean 375 ml bottle.

3. Seal the bottle, and let the vanilla beans infuse in vodka for at least 6 weeks. For best flavor, wait 6 to 12 months before using.

To Use

• Use for baking, cocktails, coffees or as you would with a storebought vanilla extract.

Recipe courtesy of Vanessa Cox

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry/powdered milk

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 heaping tablespoon cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• Pinch of cayenne pepper

• 1 bag Hershey's Cinnamon Chips

• 1 bag chocolate mini morsels

• 1 bag mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Combine the first seven ingredients (through cayenne) in a large bowl and mix well.

2. Fill a clean, dry quart-size mason jar 2/3 full of cocoa mix. Top with chocolate mini morsels, cinnamon chips and marshmallows.

3. Attach instructions: To enjoy, add two heaping tablespoons of dry mix to the bottom of a large mug. Fill with boiling water and mix. Top with mini chocolate chips, cinnamon chips and marshmallows. Let cool and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of Morgan Cole

Vanilla Extract

Spicy Mexican Hot Cocoa

Citrus Salt

Rosemary Garlic Infused Olive Oil

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup kosher or flaky sea salt

• 1 to 3 tablespoons fresh citrus zest, to taste (lemons, limes, oranges or a mix)

Instructions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry the citrus fruit. Using a microplane or fine grater, remove only the colorful outer zest, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath.

2. In a small bowl, combine the salt and the fresh citrus zest. Use your fingertips to rub the zest into the salt vigorously. This action helps release the fragrant essential oils and disperses the zest evenly throughout the salt until it feels like damp sand.

3. Spread the salt mixture in a thin, even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in a preheated oven at 200 F for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until the zest is completely dry and brittle. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure even drying. (alternatively, you can let it sit out at room temperature for 1 to 2 days)

4. Once completely cooled, store the finished citrus salt in an airtight container or glass jar in a cool, dry place for up to 3 to 6 months.

Citrus: Sweet and Savory Sun-Kissed Recipes, 2015

Ingredients

• 2 cups (460 ml) extra virgin olive oil (from Bodacious)

• 2 cloves fresh garlic

• 4-5 springs fresh rosemary

Instructions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry rosemary sprigs. You don’t want any water on them when they go in with the oil.

2. Peel garlic cloves.

3. Add garlic gloves, rosemary sprigs and olive oil to a saucepan, and gently heat to around 150 F. Maintain gentle warmth for 5 to 10 minutes (never exceeding 200 F).

4. Remove from heat and let cool completely for about 2 hours.

5. Strain through cheesecloth, and transfer to sterilized bottle with airtight seal or lid.

6. Store in a cool, dark place. Your hotinfused creation will stay fresh for 3 to 4 weeks.

Recipe Courtesy of Donna Cole

Local Efforts to Reduce Food Insecurity

By Dawn Gresko

s the holidays approach and the year comes to a close, we’re reminded to reflect on what and who is important in our lives. Here at Pensacola Magazine we are reflecting on our connection to the community, especially as we enter a season best known for the act of giving. The biggest questions: What does it mean to be a good neighbor and how can we help our fellow Pensacolians who might be struggling this season? To answer these questions, we looked to some Pensacola residents who are driving change locally to lessen the impact of food insecurity. While our city is abundant with people and organizations providing aid to those in need, speaking with some of those generous locals reminds us of how the need for help is always present and why it is so important to continue to give back.

Food insecurity certainly isn’t an issue unique to Pensacola, but it is still felt strongly among some of our most vulnerable citizens who do not have sufficient access to food. Sometimes the best way to put it into perspective is to look at numbers that reflect the current food-insecurity situation. While the exact number is still being tallied for 2025, it is estimated that over 3.2 million Floridians are food insecure this year–a number that has steadily climbed since 2019. On a scale that hits closer to home: this means that for every seven families you know, one is likely affected.

hat began as a talk between four friends transformed into a full-blown initiative geared toward feeding locals in our community during a time of uncertainty. Grocery Buddy is the culmination of efforts led by Veronique Zayas, Emily Ley, Hale Morrissette and Beth Schweigert. While Grocery Buddy is not a new concept to other cities in America, it was an idea that these four women wanted to incorporate in our own backyard.

At the end of October, when many were facing further food insecurity related to the sudden halt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Schweigert, Ley and Zayas, jumped into a group text knowing they had to reach out to someone already actively involved in our community to provide assistance to the people who needed it most. Of course, this led them to teaming up with Morrissette, who helped organize ROOTS (Reclaiming Our Own Transitional Stability) this summer with the goal of offering transitional housing, workforce development, medical services and access to grocery boxes. Since Morrissette was already working with a nonprofit also starting to build grocery boxes for immediate pickup, she was able to provide Grocery Buddy with the structure and platform it needed to launch. Hearing from each of these women, the overall driving theme behind establishing Grocery Buddy in Pensacola was this: food represents a basic need that every person deserves to receive.

“We can’t fix everything but we can feed people,” author, podcaster and Grocery Buddy Co-Organizer Emily Ley said. “What a beautiful way to care for people in our community, you know. Food is a most basic need, but it’s also such a communication of love.”

Grocery Buddy is a system of people helping others in a more personal way than just sending a donation–although food and cash donations are always appreciated, especially for those who want to help but may not be able to fund an entire grocery list. To get started, anyone requiring food assistance can sign up and request a list of food items specific to their household needs. When you sign up, you’ll be matched with a “grocery buddy,” a donor who has the option of ordering groceries for delivery, delivering the

groceries in person or shopping with their match to pick out pantry necessities. Grocery buddies are usually paired with a family who is within a reasonable travel distance, and the match is often tailored to specific requests like a buddy wanting to help a family with pets or children.

While Morrissette creates the nonprofit forms and verbiage for community outreach, Zayas handles the spreadsheets and logistics of matching families, Ley serves at the front of communications and Schweigert provides the planning plus venues for awareness events and grocery drop-offs. The group often shares duties, although they gravitated naturally to their roles based on their skillset: Morrissette is a social worker and community activist, Zayas is the founder and intellect behind Hatchmark Studio, Ley is a best-selling author with a background in advertising and Schweigert is a thriving real estate agent as well as the coowner of Odd Colony Brewing Company and The Burrow.

“Being able to meet people's needs with resources and the resource being another person who you can build a connection with impacts me the most,” Morrissette said. “That's the part that I love about seeing the outpouring of love: seeing people figure out this is how I can best help you and how they can best get help. That is what we need more of in the world.”

Within 14 days of launching, Grocery Buddy matched 374 buddies with families and raised more than $10,000. While Grocery Buddy started as a way to help families get food when SNAP was on hold, the program will continue as a resource for locals who need access to groceries. Originally a partnership with ROOTS, Grocery Buddy is maintaining momentum and now partnering directly with EPPS Christian Center. For more on how to get involved visit pensacolagrocerybuddies.com, or follow Grocery Buddy Pensacola on Facebook for details on upcoming fundraising and food gathering events.

hen we think of food insecurity sometimes we forget that this can apply to more than just our human neighbors. As families face issues with getting access to food, entire households are affected—sometimes that means worrying about how furry family members will be fed too. Jess and Kim Wolford, owners of the pet-event planning company WolfGang Pensacola, are two avid animal supporters who provide assistance when it comes to supplying the animals of our community with help when they need it.

Most recently, news circulated regarding families who were relocated to Pensacola NAS from Guantanamo Bay ahead of Hurricane Melissa, a category 5 storm. Due to an overwhelming demand to also feed incoming pets, USO Florida reached out to the Wolfords who then initiated a supply drive to gather food donations for over 300 animals living with the displaced families. Within 8 hours of promoting the drive, USO informed the couple that they had far exceeded their quota. Leftover dog and cat food from the drive was split between Jojo’s Pet Food Pantry at Escambia County Animal Shelter, Pensacola Humane Society and at least 22 families that had been furloughed.

“The last thing we want is for people to give up animals because of something they can’t control,” Jess Wolford said.

The animal food drive for USO is just one of many examples where the Wolfords have lent a helping hand to Pensacola’s animal community. Together, they also founded Pensacola Pawdi Gras, a nonprofit that hosts an annual Mardi Gras celebration and also organizes events throughout the year to support animals in local shelters and rescues in need.

Another such event by Pensacola Pawdi Gras is the third annual Christmas Shelter Pet Drive running now through December 20. The goal is to provide a gift package–filled with a new toy, cozy fleece blanket and a bag of treats–for each dog and cat at the Escambia County Animal Shelter. The drive aims to gather enough donations for at least 300 gift packages. Over the past two years, this community drive has enabled the couple to provide gifts to over 700 animals with the help of their philanthropy Pensacola Pawdi Gras. While monetary donations are welcome, the community is encouraged to drop off non-stuffed toys, blankets and treat bags in person at partnered locations

like Perfect Plain Brewing Company, Pensacola Bay Brewery, De Novo Salon, SoBo Boutique, Titanium Wireless and Play Pensacola. Volunteers will personally deliver these gift packages to eager animals on December 21.

Although donations are important, and the reason why WolfGang Pensacola is able to offer necessities like food and simple luxuries like toys and a soft blanket to curl up on, the Wolfords stress the significance of having volunteers who are willing to spend time with shelter animals as well.

“We’re going to see shelter numbers rise and one of our biggest passions is getting volunteers into the shelters,” Wolford said. “It’s a huge impact even if you can do only an hour, for shelter animals to experience human touch and interaction. Funds and supplies are great, but volunteering is changing the narrative of the way people think about helping shelter animals.”

To help out by becoming a volunteer or to offer donations, be sure to follow WolfGang Pensacola’s Facebook page for updates.

TRADITION WITH A TWIST

Timeless Holiday Decor

By Kelly Oden

by SB Visuals

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas are often a whirlwind of joyful, but slightly chaotic decorating magic. For some, holiday decorating means starting fresh with the latest trends. For others, it's about honoring traditions and telling family stories. This month, Shannon Pallin, florist extraordinaire and owner of local floral and design shop, Fiore, shares her tips and trends for combining both approaches to create an elegant, quirky and highly personal holiday vibe.

Pallin shares that this holiday season, the pendulum has swung back toward timeless elegance. Designers are embracing traditional decor elements like heritage plaids, classic red and green palettes and the shine of polished silver that's spent most of the year in storage.

"In my opinion, a good plaid never goes out of style."

"Ralph Lauren's classic design aesthetic is having a moment this year," Pallin said. "That preppy, refined look resonates with people who want their homes to feel both festive and sophisticated."

For Pallin, this trend aligns perfectly with her personal holiday décor plans. She's hosting a family gathering in memory of the Christmas Eve parties her grandparents threw each year in California.

"Those celebrations were rich with tradition," she said. "My design vision for 2025 honors that legacy while bringing in fresh elements."

One of Pallin’s most practical tips is to plan summer displays with holiday potential in mind. She repurposed apple and citrus sprays from her shop's summer inventory, working them into this year’s holiday tree designs. On impulse, she added tomato sprays to the mix.

"I liked the colors and shapes and honestly wasn't sure how they'd read," she said. "But they were surprisingly popular. You can see them in our client's tree, and people keep asking about them. I love adding citrus and fruits to any arrangement because they're seasonally multi-functional. A lemon branch works as well in July as it does in December."

Plaid ribbon and ornaments have also returned to center stage, though Pallin insists they never truly left. "In my opinion, a good plaid never goes out of style," she said. "We're carrying incredible plaid ornaments this year with dark green velvet and just a touch of bling, so the sparkle hits right. As designers, we're always circling back to what we haven't done in a while and reinventing it with unexpected elements. We don't buy an entire look from our suppliers. We hunt for different ribbons, sprays and garlands to create something unique. The magic happens in how you layer them together."

That approach is seen in both her shop displays and client installations, where the mix of textures, colors, citrus and tomatoes combine with personal touches and heirloom ornaments to create a look that is both on-trend and highly personal.

In the Home

Stephen Mack and his husband, John Robertson, asked Pallin to tackle their holiday decorating this year for an upcoming party themed Home for the Holidays. The concept focused on embracing all that Christmas brings, both the beautiful and the imperfect.

"When Shannon and I first started talking about this, it was like, how do you use every decoration you have in the Christmas box?" Mack said. "Because we all have those decorations that we don't put out or we don't know what to do with, and that was the idea behind it."

Pallin opened every single one of the couple’s many ornament boxes, pulling from a collection that ranged from Mack’s mother’s hand painted Smurf ornaments and his childhood tree topper to modern pieces and gifts from friends. The result blends personal history with Pallin’s design vision—tomato vines and citrus tucked among evergreen boughs, plaid mixed with unexpected pops of color and layers of meaning in every branch.

The tree Pallin had displayed in her shop became the inspiration for the couple’s home installation. Mack gave Pallin creative freedom to interpret

their vision, trusting her instincts with combining the collected ornaments with her signature unexpected touches.

"I just let her go with it, and we couldn’t be happier," Mack said. "It's the perfect compilation of all of our Christmas stuff. It's beautiful."

Holiday Happenings

By R. Aaron Gilmore

December brings packed holiday calendars throughout Pensacola with family-friendly festivals like Winterfest and time-honored traditions like the Christmas parade. Whether you're seeking Santa visits for the kids, spectacular holiday performances or festive holiday parades, this year’s holiday lineup has something for everyone. Check out these local events and make the most of the season.

Pensacola Winterfest

Daily through December 24

Pensacola's beloved Winterfest event series has returned, transforming downtown Pensacola into a winter wonderland featuring festive trolley tours, holiday performances, thousands of dazzling lights and more through Christmas Eve.

Established in the '90s as a neighborhood gathering and trolley ride, Winterfest has grown to become a month-long annual tradition best known for its trolley performance tours, where guests hop aboard decorated trolleys and experience a series of interactive performances along a two-mile route with a cast of Christmas characters.

This cherished annual celebration brings family-friendly fun and holiday cheer to downtown Pensacola with live performances, an Elf Parade, interactive trolley tours, Santa and his reindeer and a myriad cast of characters.

“We look forward to bringing holiday magic to the Gulf Coast every year and this will be our biggest, most spectacular Winterfest ever,” Winterfest Founder Denise Daughtry said.

On November 21, Santa and his friends welcomed the arrival of the Winterfest Express Electric Train to downtown Pensacola. This kid-sized train seats 24, and will run downtown each night of Winterfest throughout the Christmas season. Tickets are $5 per person, and can be purchased online through the Winterfest website.

“This year we’re adding two new trolley tours, starting with the Peanuts Tour, where kids (and kids at heart) can team up with Charlie Brown and friends on a quest to discover the true meaning of the season and search for the perfect tree,” Winterfest Performance Tours Coordinator River Dakota said. “Couples are also in for a treat this year aboard the Mistletoe Magic Tour—a romantic, musical journey filled with laughter, champagne and timeless holiday hits from legends like Elvis and Eartha Kitt.”

Winterfest offers opportunities to have your photo taken with Santa and the Grinch, ride on the Polar Express and many more holiday themed festivities. Seasonal extras

include nightly street theater on the historic courthouse steps and a life-sized gingerbread house rest stop, complete with hot cocoa and fresh-baked gingerbread cookies.

Perhaps one of the biggest Winterfest kickoff events is the Elf Parade, where hundreds of revelers riding strollers, skateboards and wagons follow Santa on a merry path through downtown Pensacola at the end of November.

During the parade lineup, Santa himself hosts a jolly costume contest—awarding prizes for biggest elf ears, best costume, best-decorated stroller, best-decorated wagon, ugliest sweaters and most festive skateboarder. Santa announces the costume contest winners from each category just before the parade rolls out, and each winner leads their section of the parade.

New to the Elf Parade this year was a special contest for the best dressed and decorated dog in a stroller, as a way to celebrate the return of Snoopy and the Peanuts gang.

“What started as a small community tradition has grown into a beloved celebration that draws families from across the region to downtown Pensacola," Daughtry said. "This year's event will be our biggest and most spectacular Winterfest ever—filled with new experiences, dazzling lights and the joyful spirit that makes downtown Pensacola shine during the holidays,” Daughtry said.

This year’s Winterfest is set to be bigger, brighter and more magical than ever, offering a full season of magic, memories and holiday joy for all ages.

Winterfest tours and photos with Santa take place in Plaza Wonderland at the corner of Government Street and Palafox Place. Snow and music starts at 5:30 pm on Fridays and 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday on all tour nights.

Prices for performance tours and photo sessions vary by date, so be sure to check out the calendar for details. Tickets are on sale now, and can be purchased online at pensacolawinterfest.org.

PENSACOLA CHILDREN’S CHORUS PRESENTS CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST

December 12 through 14

Friday | 7:30 pm

Saturday & Sunday | 2:30 pm

Pensacola Children’s Chorus present their annual holiday show, Christmas on the Coast. As always, the show promises an unforgettable celebration filled with heartwarming music, stunning visuals and joyful surprises for audiences of all ages. Embrace the joy of the season as the chorus celebrates the warmth of friends and family gathered for the holidays—a heartfelt reminder of what makes this season so special. For additional information, visit pensacolasings.org/performances.

SOWELL’S NORTH POLE CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY

December 1 to December 25 5:30 to 9 pm

Sowell Farms celebrates the holiday season brings with an award-winning light display featuring more than one million twinkling lights. Enjoy train rides, photos with Santa, camel rides and more. They even have elves hard at work providing hot cocoa, popcorn and other holiday snacks. Admission is $20 per vehicle, and train tickets can be purchased for $2 per person. For tickets and event details, visit sowellfarms.com/northpole.

HOT GLASS COLD BREW: HOLIDAY PAJAMA PARTY

December 5

Find your favorite slippers and head over to First City Art Center for the annual Hot Glass Cold Brew Holiday Pajama Party. You’ll be enthralled by the celebration of local artists and the community. Full admission includes a handmade artisan glass or ceramic cup, entertainment and your choice of up to two craft beers or wine from Pensacola Bay Brewery (adults 21+). The cups are limited and are first come first served; the entertainment includes glass and pottery demos, live music, an art market and gallery opening. Don’t forget to come hungry as several of Pensacola’s favorite food trucks will also be there. Admission is $30 for members and $40 for non-members. Discover more at firstcityart.org.

WAHOOS WINTER NIGHTS AT THE STADIUM

December 5 through 23 | 6 pm to 9 pm

The Blue Wahoos will host an amazing walk-through holiday light display at the Wahoo’s stadium on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning on December 5, and every day from Friday, December 19 through Tuesday, December 23. The event will feature Santa visits every night, community Christmas trees on display, festive food drinks and holiday music.

Every Sunday at 6:30, the stadium will host a holiday movie on the outfield videoboard. Tickets are available from the Blue Wahoos Stadium box office and bluewahoos.com.

LIGHTED BOAT PARADE AT PENSACOLA BEACH

December 5 | 6:30 to 7:30 pm

Crank up your favorite boat and make it as festive as you can. The 2025 Lighted Boat Parade is coming back and ready to award the Most Merry and Best of Show boats in the parade. The parade will set sail from Sabine Marina in Little Sabine Bay and loop around the Santa Rosa Sound along the Boardwalk before returning to the Sabine Marina. Spectators can watch the parade from Little Sabine, the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, or any of the businesses along the route. Boats of all shapes and sizes are encouraged to participate for a $35 entry fee per boat. Line up starts at 5 pm and the parade will begin at 6:30 pm. For complete details, check out visitpensacola.com.

GULF BREEZE ZOO’S CHRISTMAS ZOOBILEE

December 6-7 & 13-14

Celebrate the season with family fun at the Gulf Breeze Zoo during the 7th Annual Christmas Zoobilee. This festive holiday tradition is filled with seasonal kid-friendly activities, live entertainment, holiday shopping at the Candy Cane Market and plenty of photo opportunities with your favorite characters of the season. All event activities are included with regular daytime admission but do note that the Gulf Breeze Zoo will not be open in the evenings during the holiday season. The special Zoo hours are from 10 am to 4 pm with the last admission at 3 pm during Christmas Zoobilee. For more information visit gbzoo.com.

HOLLAND FARMS CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM

December 6-7 & 13-14

Take a train to the North Pole and hop on a hayride to visit Santa at Holland Farm’s annual Christmas on the Farm. Have your picture taken with Santa, get mischievous with the naughty Grinch and decorate your own Christmas craft. Don’t forget to grab some of their famous boiled peanuts and visit with all the friendly animals to spread the holiday cheer. Admission is $15 for adults and children over the age of 2 and includes a festive holiday craft to decorate. For tickets and event details, visit hollandfarmsonline.com.

2ND ANNUAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS FEST IN MUSEUM PLAZA

December 6 | 5 pm

Gather downtown at Museum Plaza to celebrate the joy of the season at Family Christmas Fest, a fun-filled evening for the whole family. Enjoy live music from favorite artists Arielle Nichole, Cameron Theodos and Coastline Kidz while sipping on free coffee and hot cocoa from the local coffee truck. Bring your loved ones, grab a warm drink, and make lasting memories at this festive community event. For more information, check out their Facebook page or familybeachfest.net.

MILTON CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 6 | 6 to 8 pm

The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce will host the annual Milton Christmas Parade, A Toy Christmas presented by Sport & Wheat Certified Public Accountants. The parade will start at the Milton Community Center. The backup rain date will be December 13. For more information visit srcchamber.com

VW CHRISTMAS LIGHT CRUISE

December 6 | 6:30 pm

Hosted annually by Pensacola VW Happenings, the VW Christmas Light Cruise is a holiday event where decorated Volkswagens of all shapes, sizes and models gather to cruise the streets of downtown Pensacola and Pensacola Beach decked out in holiday lights. The event includes a pre-cruise gathering at Coastal County Brewing Company at 4:30. The cruise will have various stops along the way so spectators can enjoy the caravan of nostalgic holiday VWs. You can check out the Pensacola VW Happenings Facebook page for complete event details.

SURFIN' SANTA BEACH PARADE

December 7 | 2 pm

Make your way to Pensacola Beach to see Santa Claus close out the annual Surfin' Santa Beach Parade starting from Panferio Drive at Gowens Park. The parade will make its way down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach and end at the Gulfside Pavilion. Check out visitpensacola.com for details.

PLT PRESENTS IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY

December 12 | 7:30 pm

December 21 | 2:30 pm

Light the fireplace and gather ‘round your old radio as Pensacola Little Theater steps back in time. Relive the holiday classic reimagined as a 1940s radio broadcast in It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. A small ensemble of actors—with live sound effects, vintage flair and all the magic of a bygone era—brings the beloved story of George Bailey to life in an unforgettable tale of love, hope, and the influence of one life. For tickets and information, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

COX PENSACOLA

CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 13 | 5:30 pm

The Cox Pensacola Christmas parade draws more than 50,000 spectators to downtown Pensacola each year. This annual parade has grown to include over 5,000 participants, including 42 local krewes and 50 festive parade floats. The parade also features the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from the area. All profits of the Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade go to the local high school band booster organizations with over $40,000 already having been donated. For more information, visit coxpensacolachristmasparade.org.

WHITE TIE ROCK ENSEMBLE PRESENTS A WHITE TIE

CHRISTMAS

December 19

Kick off the holiday season with a family friendly holiday tribute concert by White Tie Rock Ensemble featuring the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Springsteen, McCartney, the Eagles and other holiday classics. White Tie

Rock Ensemble will present A White Tie Christmas December 19 at the Pensacola Bay Center. Experience the magic of the season as this beloved band delivers an unforgettable holiday rock concert for all ages to enjoy. Doors open at 7 pm, and the show begins at 8 pm. Tickets start at $26 (plus fees) and can be purchased online through ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.

BALLET PENSACOLA PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER

December 19, 20 & 21 (showtimes times vary)

The Pensacola Ballet presents the highly anticipated performance of The Nutcracker at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre in December. Follow along with Clara and the Nutcracker Prince to defeat the evil Mouse King and watch her transform into a Sugar Plum fairy right before your very eyes. With the enchanting choreography performed by the Ballet Pensacola Professional Company and Ballet Pensacola Academy, this annual holiday tradition is the perfect way to make unforgettable memories with family and friends. The Nutcracker

is more than a performance, it’s a celebration of dreams, tradition and holiday enchantment. For more information check out balletpensacola.org/performances.

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS AT PENSACOLA BEACH

December 31

Come out and keep your eyes focused on the Pensacola Beach skies this New Year’s Eve to ring in 2026 with a free firework display along the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. At midnight, a dazzling light display, provided by the Pensacola Beach Chamber, the Santa Rosa Island Authority, and the Escambia County Tourist Development Council, will take place overlooking the Santa Rosa Sound from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. For more information, call 850-932-1500 or check out visitpensacola.com.

PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR!

December 31 | 7 pm

POLAR BEAR PLUNGE AT PENSACOLA BEACH

January 1 | 12 to 3 pm

Head to Pensacola Beach and wash off 2025 with a Polar Bear Plunge!

$10 registration donation to participate without the t-shirt and $5 Cub Club for ages fifth grade and under (no shirt). All proceeds go to the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce to fund events on the Island. For more

Making Spirits Bright

Five Festive Holiday Cocktails

Photos by Savannah Coates, HatchMark Studio

Holiday French 75

Ingredients

• 1 ounce gin

• 1/2 ounce lemon juice freshly squeezed

• 3/4 ounce cranberry simple syrup

• 3 ounces champagne

• Fresh cranberries for garnish

• Rosemary sprig for garnish

Cranberry Simple Syrup

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries

Instructions

Cranberry Simple Syrup

Add granulated sugar, water and fresh cranberries to a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves and cranberries soften. Gently mash to expel the cranberry flavor, then simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Strain into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Cranberry Simple Syrup should last up to 3 to 4 weeks when kept in the fridge.

Holiday French 75

Place a champagne flute or coupe glass in the freezer to chill. Add gin, fresh lemon juice and cranberry simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Add a handful of ice, then give it a good shake until chilled. Strain into a champagne flute or a coupe glass. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig or a lemon peel for a classic option.

Festive & Bubbly Pearloma

Ingredients

• 1 ounce reposado tequila

• 3/4 ounce spiced pear liqueur

• 1 ounce pear juice

• 1/2 grapefruit, juiced

• Prosecco, to top

• Pear slice for garnish

• Rosemary for garnish

• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions

In your wine glass, add tequila, pear juice, pear liqueur and grapefruit juice. Fill with ice and top with prosecco. Stir to combine. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a slice of pear and a cinnamon stick.

Holly Jolly Cosmo (serves 15)

Ingredients

• 4 cups cranberry juice

• 1 cup lime juice

• 2 ounces charred orange juice

• 2 cups vodka

• 1/2 cup rosemary simple syrup

• Dash of orange zest

• Optional: dash of edible sprinkles

Instructions

Batch all ingredients in a pitcher or large punch bowl. Shake individual servings with ice and strain into a martini glass when ready to serve. You can also serve individually in small fillable ornaments for an equally delicious holiday twist!

Grinch Mocktail

Ingredients

• 2 ounces pineapple juice

• 4 ounces non-alcoholic prosecco

• Marshmallow fluff and green sprinkles for rimming

• Optional: green edible glitter and peppermint or candy cane for garnish

Instructions

Rim your flute by dipping the glass in marshmallow fluff and then green sprinkles. Pour pineapple juice directly into the flute and top with chilled zeroproof prosecco or sparkling wine. Add edible glitter and garnish to make this mocktail extra festive!

Candy Cane Lane

Ingredients

• 2 ounces candy cane infused vodka

• 1.5 ounces whole milk

• 3/4 ounce condensed milk

• Frosting and peppermint pieces for rimming

Instructions

Make candy cane infused vodka by adding eight ounces of vodka and ten mini candy canes to an airtight container and let sit overnight. Rim your glass by dipping a portion into frosting and peppermint pieces. Add all ingredients into a shaker and shake with ice for 15 seconds. Strain into rimmed glass over a large ice cube and enjoy!

EVENT CALENDAR

Pensacola Ice Flyers Schedule & Theme Nights

December home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. Games begin at 7:05 pm. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.

December 5 - Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs vs Ice Flyers; Rally Foundation Night

December 6 - Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs vs Ice Flyers; Youth Jersey Giveaway

December 11- Huntsville Havoc vs Ice Flyers; College Night

December 20 - Huntsville Havoc vs Ice Flyers; Star Wars Night

December 23 - Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; Ice Flyers Christmas

December 27 - Huntsville Havoc vs Ice Flyers; Military Appreciation Night

Quayside Art Gallery Holiday Market

December 1 to January 4

Looking for that special something to give out this holiday season? Find a personal, one-of-a-kind gift from the assortment of art, ornaments, cards and more to be showcased at Quayside

Art Gallery’s Annual Holiday Market. Quayside Art Gallery offers three floors featuring 50 local artists displaying glass, fiber, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, mixed media, photography and woodwork. From contemporary pieces to timeless classics, their collection caters to every artistic palate. If you’re overwhelmed by choices for a gift, there’s always the option to pick up a gallery gift certificate. You can visit the gallery Monday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. Find more details at quaysidegallery.com.

58th Annual Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway

December 4 to December 7

Rev up your engines: the pinnacle of American short track racing, the ultimate contest of skill and grit, returns to Pensacola from December 4 to December 7. The annual Snowball Derby is presented by Flo Sports and features three days of rotating practice and qualifying rounds for derby fans and car enthusiasts alike to spectate. On December 7 it’s off to the races, as the big derby day showcases drivers and their cars circling 300 laps. Join Pensacola Sports and Five

Flags Speedway for a race week filled with excitement! Get your tickets or learn more at 5flagsspeedway.com.

Rally Foundation’s Holiday Shopping Soirée

December 5 to December 6

Time to check off some holiday shopping off your list while supporting a vital cause: Rally Foundation will present their annual Holiday Shopping Soiree with participating local vendors, and a percentage of the sales will benefit Rally’s mission to fund better treatments with fewer long-term side effects for children with cancer. Friday, December 5, will be a pop-up shop at Studer Community Institute in downtown Pensacola featuring local vendors like Bodacious Shops, Rusted Arrow Mercantile and Bluetique. Enjoy free entry with complimentary champagne, delicious bites, live DJ, celebrity gift wrapping and more. The first 125 guests will receive a special swag bag. Saturday, December 6, you’re encouraged to visit downtown businesses such as Artesana, Colette Boutique and Innerlight. For a complete list of shop vendors, times or to donate, visit rallyfoundation.org.

Wahoos Winter Nights

December 5 to December 23

Blue Wahoos Stadium is lighting up some Christmas cheer with first-ever Wahoos Winter Nights, an immersive holiday light show in partnership with Nights in Lights, a Mobile-based company that has brought radiance and joy to audiences across the Gulf Coast. The walk-through holiday light display will be open Friday-Sundays from 6 to 9 pm, and every day from December 19 through December 23. The event will feature community Christmas trees, festive food and drinks, holiday music, and visits from Santa every night (checking his list for who’s naughty or nice!) Every Sunday a holiday-themed movie will be shown on the outfield videoboard, starting with Elf, Home Alone then The Grinch. Tickets are available for $12 at the Blue Wahoos Stadium box office or website. Learn more at bluewahoos.com.

13th Annual USO Runway 5K

December 6

Race the runway at Pensacola International Airport while supporting our local military community kicking off

at 10 am on December 6. All registered participants receive an event t-shirt and race bib with their official timing of crossing the finish line. All proceeds benefit the USO of Northwest Florida. This year, you can go the extra mile for our local heroes and choose to purchase an additional race entry to be gifted to a local service member. Your sponsorship gives them the opportunity to join the fun and experience race day alongside the community they serve. Race week registration starts at $45 and kids under 10 run/walk for free with a paid parent or guardian. Register today or find out more on runpensacola.com

Jackson’s Deck the Halls: A Holiday Lunch Event

December 6, 13 & 20

In celebration of the holidays and back by popular demand, Jackson’s will present Deck the Halls in collaboration with the Pensacola Opera for a festive lunch event filled with holiday cheer. Each Saturday there will be two seatings: one at 10:30 am and the second at 1 pm. As you enjoy your meal,

EVENT CALENDAR

tunes. Pensacola Opera singers will serenade patrons with holiday favorites such as Silent Night , Away in a Manger and We Wish You a Merry Christmas . In addition to their full lunch menu, Chef Jeremiah Taylor and Chef Irv Miller will offer a special dish to celebrate the occasion. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 850-469-9898 or visiting jacksonsrestaurant.com.

New Year’s Fireworks

December 31

Send 2025 out with a bang and ring in 2026 from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, where you’ll witness a dazzling display when the clock strikes midnight. Keep your eyes focused on the beach skies for a free firework show from anywhere on the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, thanks to provisions by Pensacola Beach Chamber, Santa Rosa Island Authority and the Escambia County Tourist Development Council. For more information, check out visitpensacola.com.

Business Climate

Special Section • December 2025

40 IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area

Announces 2025 Grant Recipients

Discover what 12 remarkable organizations aim to accomplish with their $100,000+ grants

44 Around the Region

Find out what's happening in business, government and cultural news throughout Pensacola and Northwest Florida

IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area Announces 2025 Grant Recipients

IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area announced the 12 grant recipients selected for 2025 during their Annual Meeting on October 19 at the Hilton on Pensacola Beach.

Each of the 12 nonprofit organizations will receive a grant of $103,500 from the members of IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area.

IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, Inc. is an organization of philanthropic-minded women committed to improving their community by providing substantial grants to nonprofit organizations in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.

“IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area is thrilled to select these 12 remarkable organizations as our 2025 grant recipients thanks to the contributions of our members,” IMPACT100 Pensacola Bay Area President Martha Holden said. “Each of these nonprofits is making an incredible impact in our community, and we are honored to support their efforts in creating meaningful change. We look forward to seeing how these projects will touch the lives of so many in the coming year.”

With 1,242 members in 2025, IMPACT 100 was able to award 12 grants totaling more than $100,000 each to deserving nonprofit organizations in our community for a total impact of over $1.2 million.

Since its inception, IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area has awarded 177 grants totaling more than $18.7 million to worthy nonprofits serving Pensacola Bay Area communities and contributed over $31 million to Escambia and Santa Rosa economies.

IMPACT 100 members contribute more than $1 million annually in direct grants to nonprofit organizations

serving the two counties. The organizations purchase goods and services from local businesses, creating further contributions through taxes and other indirect and induced spending. Membership is open to any woman, age 18 or older, who makes an annual taxdeductible donation (membership fee) of $1,000 by March 1 of any calendar year, with the entire contribution used to fund grants.

The 2025 grant award recipients selected by IMPACT 100’s members are as follows:

ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY

Greater Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Inc. Project: Drumroll, Please: The Sound of a New Century

The mission of the organization is to promote the well-being of the Greater Pensacola community through excellence in live symphonic music and lifelong learning through engaging musical activities. The proposed project is to purchase essential instruments, including a set of four professional timpani, a vibraphone, a celesta, a digital keyboard with case and music stand lights to be used for decades. Currently, the symphony relies on instruments that are borrowed, outdated or in poor condition. The funds will be used for a timpani four-drum set, vibraphone, celesta, keyboard with keyboard case and music stand lights.

Pace Band Boosters, Inc.

Project: Every Note Matters: Powering the Next Generation of Musicians

The mission of the organization is to support each member of the Pace High School Band to achieve the core values of focus, fundamentals, consistency, passion, positivity and family as they prepare for graduation and their future. The proposed project is to replace aging instruments, equipment and tools that have up to 30 years of constant use. Many band members would otherwise not have the financial means for a personal instrument. The funds will be used for marching brass instruments, percussion instruments and carriers, Color Guard uniforms and garment bags and a utility vehicle to be used as a hydration station.

EDUCATION

Children’s Home Society of Florida

Project: W.A.V.E. (Warriors Achieving, Valuing and Exploring)

The mission of the organization is to build bridges to success for children. The proposed project is to implement an oncampus, after-school academic enrichment program at Bellview Middle School for up to 120 students. Focusing on students performing below grade levels in reading and math, the program will engage students in reading and math instruction, learning activities and handson experiences, while providing them with meals and transportation home at no cost. The funds will be used for partial payroll costs for two staff members, as well as tutors, student supplies, positive behavioral rewards, a series of enrichment events and gas.

Escambia County School

Readiness Coalition, Inc.

Project: Classroom on Wheels

The mission of the organization is to identify and meet the needs of children and families to lay the foundation for lifetime success. The proposed project is to create a Classroom on Wheels by converting a cargo van into a mobile library and learning center to bring awareness about the importance of early learning and child development, while also providing practical learning activities for families to do with their children. The funds will be used for a customized cargo van, the safety and office equipment needed for the mobile classroom conversion and educational materials and supplies with a focus on sensory, visual, auditory and cognitive learning.

ENVIRONMENT & RECREATION

Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association, Inc. (dba First Tee Gulf Coast)

Project: Truly Impacting Warrington Youth

The mission of the organization is to enable kids and teens to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges utilizing nine core values. The proposed project is to expand its program for Warrington youth development by providing transportation to a zero-cost, five-day-a-week after-school golf and life skills programming for at-need youth, along with new storage space to house essential equipment and supplies. The funds will be used for the purchase of a 15-passenger Sprinter van with maintenance contract, framing and roofing materials, labor and scholarships for 100 youth.

Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida, Inc.

Project: Moveable Habitats, Meaningful Messages

The mission of the organization is to mobilize and direct public, private and human resources to provide care, create natural habitats and promote wildlife preservation through education. The proposed project is to improve preparedness and response to frequent flooding events at the facility through two critical purchases: moveable habitats to expand their current wildlife hospital capacity and updated signage to improve public engagement. The funds will be used for construction materials, enclosures and habitat structures, animal enrichment and handling equipment, site preparation and an electrician.

FAMILY

Legal Services of North Florida, Inc.

Project: Equal Access Express

The mission of the organization is to advocate for improved quality of life through high-caliber civil legal assistance for those unable to otherwise access such services. The proposed project is a mobile legal services unit to increase access to free critical legal services for those who may not know it exists, and for those that may not have physical access to it. The Equal Access Express, a new transit van equipped for accessibility and on-site service delivery, will travel to reach those living in rural areas or with limited transportation or mobility. The funds will be used for a new, full-size accessible transit van with built-in office equipment, retractable awning, and vehicle insurance.

Wesley Haven Villa, Inc.

Project: Rolling with a Purpose–Connecting Seniors to Care and Community

The mission of the organization is to enrich the lives of older adults and all those who serve them in faith-based communities. The proposed project is a transportation initiative designed to enhance resident mobility, safety and independence. Together, the improvements will expand transportation options, ease family concerns and help residents stay connected to the people, places and experiences that enrich their lives. The funds will be used for a converted van with wheelchair lift, a sixperson street-legal golf cart and the replacement of the aging lift on a 14-passenger community bus.

Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, Inc.

Project: Veteran Family Homelessness Prevention

The mission of the organization is to provide urgent financial assistance and critical dental care for eligible wounded and service-disabled Florida veterans. The proposed project is to prevent veteran homelessness and provide housing for veterans who are currently homeless in the Pensacola area through targeted interventions such as rental assistance, emergency housing repairs, case management and connections to local resources to help address the root causes of housing instability. The funds will be used for rental assistance to prevent eviction or displacement, utility assistance to restore or maintain service, temporary lodging expenses and partial salary for a case worker.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Community Organizations Active in Disaster, Inc.

Project: BRACE Mobile Support and Resiliency Unit

The mission of the organization is to create community disaster resiliency through public-private partnerships to educate, train and engage all stakeholders. The proposed project is to enable transport of people and gear for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) simulations, deliver Fire Corps members and supplies during fires and support participation in community events. The funds will be used for the purchase of a new Chevrolet Suburban with 4-wheel drive and trailer package, a vehicle wrap, 75 CERT backpacks and shirts, marketing and promotion.

Feeding the Gulf Coast Project: Nutrition Equals Seniors Thriving

The mission of the organization is to fight hunger through community partnerships and programs by creating access to nutritious food and resources for those facing poverty, crisis or disaster. The proposed project is to expand its senior nutrition program, NEST (Nutrition Equals Seniors Thriving), by providing 2,100 nutritious food boxes to 175 seniors over the course of 12 months and upgrade warehouse equipment, including a forklift to support the program’s growth. The funds will be used for a forklift, battery, charger and warranty and the purchase and distribution of NEST boxes.

Gulf Coast Kid’s House, Inc. Project: Healing House and Garden

The mission of the organization is to end child abuse and heal families through collaborative intervention, family support and prevention education. The proposed project is to build a therapeutic garden for the children and families who have been impacted by the trauma of child abuse in Escambia County. Gardens are incredibly soothing for people whose nervous systems are on high alert from trauma as well as offer children and their families ways to control their environment, after so many have felt out of control. The funds will be used for plant materials, concrete walkways and fountain wall, fencing, site prep and irrigation.

To learn more about IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area and this year’s grant recipients, visit impact100pensacola.org.

Around the Region

UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business Inducts

2025 Hall of Fame Class

The University of West Florida (UWF) Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business inducted its 2025 Hall of Fame class on November 17 at the UWF Conference Center.

“The Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business Hall of Fame is a tribute to the extraordinary individuals whose vision, leadership, dedication and achievements have made a lasting impact on our college and the greater community,” said Dr. Scott Keller, dean of the college. “They inspire our students, graduates and the entire college to achieve new heights.”

The Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business Hall of Fame was created in 2021 with the purpose of highlighting and honoring individuals who present qualities that showcase the excellence of the college as a place of learning. Inductees include UWF alumni or supporters who have positively impacted the college and the wider Pensacola community. A committee composed of college faculty and administration are responsible for selecting candidates. Inductee criteria include graduating from or supporting the college in any meaningful way, exceptional career accomplishments, significant professional recognition, community involvement and service to the Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business and UWF.

The 2025 Hall of Fame class includes:

• Gerald Adcox ‘77: Retired CFO and assistant to the chairman of Medart Companies; UWF Foundation Board

• Lewis Bear Jr. ‘23: Former CEO and president of The Lewis Bear Company; former UWF Board of Trustees Chair; former UWF Foundation Board of Directors member; philanthropist who established the Lewis Bear Company Endowment for Excellence in Business Education at UWF

• Melissa Brode ‘16, ‘25: Associate dean and director of graduate program, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business

• Cameron Davies ‘91: Corporate chief data and AI officer, Yum! Brands

• Darrell Gooden ‘73: Founder of Gooden Homes, Inc.; former UWF Foundation Board of Directors member; philanthropist

• Mary Holladay ‘89: Business manager, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business

• Dan McMillan ‘93: Managing trustee of D.W. McMillian Trust and the D.W. McMillan Foundation of Brewton, Alabama; former UWF Foundation Board member

• Martha Saunders: President emeritus, University of West Florida

• Rodney Sutton ‘91: Managing partner, SNS Reality, Inc.; UWF Foundation Board of Directors

• John David Thomas ‘08: Regional vice president, Crane Worldwide Logistics; founding member and former president of the Marketing and Logistics Association at UWF

• Jim Thornton ‘74: Retired CFO U.S. risk management for a British FTSE 100 firm

• Tom Vaughn ‘81: Financial advisor, Northwestern Mutual

• Stephen Wright ‘81: Retired CEO and senior vice president of group operations for CHRISTUS Health Louisiana and Southeast Texas; philanthropist who helped establish the Wright Family Institute for Global and Population Health at UWF

• “These individuals embody what it means to lead boldly,” Keller said. “They are the very definition of excellence, purpose, innovation and courage. With them, the Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business is truly exceptional.”

For more information about the UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business Hall of Fame, visit uwf.edu/lbjcob/community-outreach/ hall-of-fame.

IHMC honored by Humanoid Robotics Technology as Outstanding Research Organization

The Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) is once again in the international spotlight in the field of humanoid robotics.

The Institute was named Outstanding Research Organization in the 2025 Humanoid Robotics Industry Awards for its Nadia humanoid project. The awards are sponsored by Humanoid Robotics Technology (HRT) in partnership with Novanta.

Dr. Morley Stone, IHMC’s Chief Executive Officer, was thrilled that the team was recognized in this way—among competition such as the University of California at San Diego, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of California at Berkeley, Stanford University, Shanghai Tech University, the Instituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Harbin Institute of Technology, Peking University and ETH Zurich.

“IHMC is indeed a special place, where researchers work together across numerous disciplines every day to push the envelope in terms of what is possible in humanoid robotics and teaming,” Stone said “To have the worldwide humanoid community recognize us and our work is an honor.”

Humanoid Robotics Technology is a website dedicated to industry news in humanoid robotics. “The Outstanding Research Organization Award honors organizations that deliver research that significantly advances the field, includes community engagement and outreach to raise awareness of the benefits of humanoids in society, and pioneer new humanoid platforms,” HRT Co-Founder Jack Hallewell said.

Nadia’s range of motion and high power-to-weight ratio is one of the design elements that makes the humanoid unique in the field. The robot’s namesake is famed gymnast Nadia Comăneci, as a nod to the ultimate design goal—achieving human-range-of-motion. IHMC’s Nadia gained internet notoriety for videos showing her boxing and playing ping pong.

“It’s a deep honor to have our Nadia project be recognized in this way,” said Senior Research Scientist Dr. Robert Griffin, who leads the robotics team at IHMC. “IHMC has always prided itself on its research contributions to the field and watching the evolution of humanoids as a discipline and industry from the time Nadia started in 2018 and 2019 to 2025 has been nothing short of astonishing. We’re quite excited for the recognition of our project’s contribution to this revolution and are excited to see what the future holds, both for humanoids at large and for our future contributions to the field.”

The Nadia platform, which was retired in the fall of 2025 to make way for IHMC’s next generation platform named Alex, aimed to develop highly mobile ground robots that can function in indoor environments where stairs, ladders and debris would require the same range of motion as a human.

As mentioned, Alex, IHMC’s next iteration humanoid, is under development supported by funding from the U.S. Office of Naval Research. The research goals for Alex include design and integration of next-generation controllers for outdoor urban operations, enhanced design of behaviors for building exploration, integration of a behavior cloning pipeline and improved simulation environment.

The aim is for Alex and its successors to be robust and yet nimble enough to operate in operational environments where the risk to human responders is high, from military scenarios to disaster response.

In the winners’ announcement, Hallewell congratulated those recognized for advancing the field of humanoid robotics. “We’re proud to be part of this exciting journey and inspired by the ongoing achievements of the humanoid robotics community,” Hallewell said. For more information, visit ihmc.us.

ON THE MARKET

a Real Estate Section

In This Section

49. By the Numbers

A look at October's real estate market highlights

50. Transform Your Space With an Accent Wall

Give your home a fresh look with a bold color or rich texture

BY THE NUMBERS

A Look at October's Market Highlights

Market Highlights

YTD combined sales for 2025 stand at 8,192, representing a 1.3% drop from the same period in 2024.

Total sales for October 2025 were down 8.6% compared to September 2025.

New residential listings increased by 0.1%, and new condo listings increased by 197% in October 2025 when compared to October 2024.

Pending sales in October 2025 increased by 15% over October 2024, but decreased 1.5% from September 2025.

Transform Your Space With an Accent Wall

If you’re looking to give your home a fresh look without a full-scale remodel, an accent wall might be an ideal solution. Whether you’re craving bold color or rich texture, an accent wall can instantly add personality and visual interest with minimal effort.

Consider these ideas to spark your imagination:

Bold Paint Colors

Sometimes the simplest option can be a fresh coat of paint. Whether you choose a deep, dramatic color like burgundy, navy or emerald green or opt for more playful vibes with teal or mustard shades, pair your accent wall with neutral decor for a balanced, stylish look.

Geometric Designs

For a modern architectural look, use wood trim or molding to create a geometric pattern such as chevron or herringbone. Paint the trim the same color as the wall for subtle texture or use contrasting tones for a bolder statement.

Stone or Brick Accents

Exposed brick and stone can bring natural beauty and timeless appeal that pair beautifully with wood beams, modern furniture and industrial lighting. Use real stone for authenticity or opt for veneer panels for quick and easy installation.

Built-In Shelving

Combine function and style with a statement storage area. Built-in shelves filled with books, plants and curated decor can become the heart of a living room or home office.

Wall of Art

Whether you opt for a hand-painted mural or a variety of prints in different shapes, sizes and frames, artwork can tell a story or set the mood for a room. Try a floral motif for softness, a skyline for urban flair or abstract pieces for modern drama.

Find more ideas to personalize your living space at elivingtoday.com.

The CORE Team