Inweekly August 28 2025 Issue

publisher Rick Outzen edi tor & creative director Joani Delezen graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk co ntributing writers Joshua Encinias, Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh , Dakota Parks, C.S. Satterwhite, Tom St. Myer

SHOUT OUT

‘City on the Rise’ highlights

area for booming job market, talent growth, and quality of life

LinkedIn® has spotlighted Pensacola as one of its inaugural ‘Cities on the Rise’ — a curated list highlighting the 25 mid-sized U.S. metropolitan areas experiencing exceptional growth in hiring, talent migration, and job postings.

What’s Driving the Momentum?

LinkedIn’s ranking examines year-over-year percentage increases across three key metrics: hiring activity (defined by the number of people adding new positions to their profiles), job-posting volume, and the net influx of professionals relocating to the area.

Pensacola stood out in all categories, showcasing strength in several pivotal industries, including healthcare, professional services, and government administration — sectors that form the backbone of the city’s labor market.

Why Pensacola?

The region’s focus on supporting local businesses, helping startup companies, and creating a vibrant downtown has helped keep talent at home, attract new talent, and build a national reputation as a great place to live, work, and play.

Top employers: Navy Federal Credit Union, the U.S. Navy, and the University of West Florida are among the city’s largest employers by volume.

What’s Next?

Pensacola’s growth as a thriving Gulf Coast economic hub:

Sustained Growth: Continue supporting local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs to foster local growth and economic resilience.

Workforce Development:

Prioritize building a skilled, reliable workforce to meet the demands of expanding industries.

Safe, Accessible Infrastructure:

Invest in walkable, safe infrastructure to enhance quality of life and accessibility for residents and visitors.

Project Follow-Through: Ensure that long-announced projects are actually completed:

• New apartment and hotel complexes.

• High-profile opportunities like American Magic.

• Deliver results that strengthen Pensacola’s reputation.

Methodology Note

LinkedIn’s ‘Cities on the Rise’ ranking draws on anonymized data from March 1, 2023 to February 1, 2025.

winners & losers

winners losers

PENSACOLA A new ConsumerAffairs study named Pensacola the top U.S. coastal city for long-distance moves. Florida dominated the rankings, claiming half of the top 10 spots and 13 of the top 20 cities analyzed. The Pensacola Metropolitan area earned first place through its combination of affordability and safety compared to similar metros nationwide. Pensacola boasts the second-best affordability ratio comparing median home prices to income and the ninth-lowest median rent at $1,848—approximately $800 below the study average. ConsumerAffairs evaluated 143 coastal metro areas with populations exceeding 130,000 and located within 15 miles of beaches, ranking them on affordability, livability, safety and economic factors.

DAVE MURZIN

The Century Town Council voted to hire former state representative Dave Murzin of Cantonment as the town's next fulltime administrator. The council voted 3-1 to approve Mayor Ben Boutwell's recommendation of Murzin, with Shelisa Abraham absent and council president Dynette Lewis casting the dissenting vote without making additional comment. The vote allowed Boutwell to negotiate an employment agreement with Murzin for final council approval at their next regular meeting Sept. 2. Murzin, who served in the Florida House 2002 to 2010 and has economic development experience, inherits severe financial problems, including failed audits, lost grant funding and years of serious fiscal mismanagement and operational issues. Needless to say, he will have his hands full.

CARES FOR KIDS RADIOTHON

The seventh annual Cat Country Cares for Kids Radiothon, presented by Hanto & Clarke General Contractors, successfully raised $301,400 for Studer Family Children's Hospital. Hosted by Cat Country 98.7 and WEAR ABC 3's Sue Straughn, the one-day broadcast will fund laser interstitial thermal therapy equipment—the first in Northwest Florida. The state-of-the-art technology provides minimally invasive, precision-guided laser therapy for children with complex brain tumors and epilepsy. This breakthrough treatment offers safer, more effective care while reducing the need for open surgery, significantly improving patient outcomes and quality of life. The radiothon featured emotional stories from patient families, highlighting the hospital's role in delivering advanced care locally.

SERVISMED LLC

The Pensacola-based company pleaded guilty to federal charges for illegally distributing unregistered pesticides during the COVID-19 pandemic. Operating from South Palafox Street between March and December 2020, the company violated the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act by marketing products that falsely claimed to fight coronavirus without EPA registration. ServisMed distributed products to multiple parties, including local law enforcement, and attempted international exports to Jordan and Saudi Arabia before being intercepted. The company faces severe penalties: $13,330 in restitution, $40,000 in federal fines, forfeiture of products worth over $250,000 and complete business dissolution. U.S. Attorney John Heekin stated, "This company broke the law by exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic to enrich itself through deceptive distribution of a chemical agent not approved for human use."

UWF PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH

Everyone believes that University of West Florida (UWF) Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. will get the job, but could the Board of Trustees chair be less obvious in rigging the search? UWF General Counsel Susan Woolf was fired for not allowing the chair to hire whom she wanted as the outside counsel for the search. The staff member who fulfilled our public request about the chair's calendar was reportedly put on administrative leave. She no longer works at UWF. Search committee members were asked to attend a meeting Aug. 22 but were not told who else was on the committee. And all the committee members had to sign non-disclosure agreements.

JAY COLLINS The Florida lieutenant governor was dispatched to California to retrieve Harjinder Singh, an Indian national accused of causing a fatal crash on a Florida turnpike. Singh allegedly attempted a U-turn with his semitruck Aug. 12 in St. Lucie County, killing three people. Gov. Ron DeSantis said Collins will "throw the book at him" upon return. Singh faces three vehicular homicide counts and immigration violations. However, Singh had already signed extradition papers before Collins' trip was announced. Rep. Alex Andrade criticized the mission as a wasteful "political stunt" using taxpayer resources.

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

LOSING A TRUTH-TELLER

We lost a titan when Rev. H.K. Matthews passed last week. He followed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s path of civil disobedience and successfully created a more equitable Northwest Florida.

At a time when younger, more radical groups were questioning Dr. King's methods, Matthews never wavered. He understood that lasting change came not through violence or retreat, but through persistent, principled resistance.

Dr. Michael Butler chronicled Matthews' life in two books that should be in every Florida high school classroom. I spoke with him soon after we learned of the pastor's death.

"We lost a truth-teller," Butler said. "We lost a truth-teller in an age where truth is debated."

I first met the pastor when our reporter Ryne Ziemba wrote "A Cycle of Injustice?" in March 2010. Ziemba examined the disturbing parallels between the 2010 death of a Black teen, Victor Steen, at the hands of a Pensacola police officer and the 1974 killing of Wendel Blackwell by an Escambia County deputy. He uncovered that between those two deaths, Escambia County held 12 coroner's inquests for law enforcement killings, far exceeding other Florida counties, yet prosecution remained rare.

The protest surrounding Blackwell's death led to Matthews' conviction for felony extortion.

understood that lasting change came not through violence or retreat, but through

When asked about our mutual friend's legacy, he said, "We lost one of the people who was very willing to hold up a mirror to society and point out the flaws that he saw with the hope that it could be improved."

Escambia County was slow to recognize racial inequities. By the 1970s, many Americans believed the civil rights movement was over. Legislation had been passed, barriers had been removed—what more could Black people want?

"Rev. Matthews brought to light that the civil rights movement didn't end with what happened in Selma. It didn't end with the Civil Rights Act. That racism persisted, and it persisted in different ways," said Butler.

The activist understood real change required constant vigilance, uncomfortable conversations and the courage to challenge systems that had adapted rather than disappeared.

"Rev. Matthews was on the front lines of that first wave of people that said, 'Wait a minute, the way that the police treat us is racist. The presence of these Confederate icons in schools is racist,'" Butler recalled.

White Southerners didn't want to hear that, Butler added. "They thought that they had given up enough, and Rev. Matthews was a strong advocate of the uncomfortable truth to many that the civil rights movement didn't end when legislation passed. It was only beginning. And he faced the consequences of that very unpopular stance at the time."

After we published "A Cycle of Injustice?," Rev. Matthews would often stop by the office when he came from Brewton to Pensacola for a haircut. I would ask questions about his life, and many of his answers became news stories for our paper.

He shared stories about the abandonment he faced after his conviction—from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, fellow ministers and the very people he had fought to defend.

"They put on their little life jackets and hopped on the lifeboats, and they swam to shore, leaving me on that lonely island by myself," Matthews said.

Was Pensacola that frightening for Black people? "It was just that frightening," the pastor said. "Even to the point that there were a lot of Black people who even denied knowing me."

Matthews admitted that he remained bitter for a time. He said, "But then, as I grew older and reflected more on that situation, I said, 'You know, really, I've got a right to harbor a lot of bitterness.' But I really shouldn't because everybody just didn't have the stamina I had."

Then he smiled. "God does not make mistakes. So whatever happened to me, it happened for a reason. In God's providence, I went through the things that I went through. I continue being haunted by some of the memories but not haunted to the extent that I dwell on them."

Rev. H.K. Matthews can now rest. Though he has left us big shoes to fill, we must accept the challenge to carry on his legacy. {in} rick@inweekly.net

Last week, we printed 84 pages—which is four times the size of a typical Inweekly. But even that didn't come close to covering all the Best of the Coast bases.

So we're back for round two with Rest of the Best.

In this issue, we're celebrating the runners-up and giving them their own moment in the spotlight. Plus, we're re-run-

ning the complete 2025 winners and runners-up list, in case you missed something or just need to read it again. It's a lot to take in, after all.

We also have to thank all the businesses that said yes to advertising again. We couldn't make these special issues, or Inweekly in general, without your support. {in}

community, media + culture

BEST NONPROFIT

Winner: Gulf Winds Foundation

Ballet Pensacola

Gulf Coast Kid's House

Pensacola Children's Chorus

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Winner: Brunch & Bubbles (Gulf Coast Kid's House)

Children's Treasure Hunt (Fiesta Pensacola)

Ovation (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

Pensacola Paw-di Gras (WolfGang)

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union

Global Learning Academy

Gulf Winds Credit Union

University of West Florida

BEST BOSS

Winner: Lalla Pierce

(Global Learning Academy)

Alex Gartner (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

Allison Hill (LifeView Group)

Stacey Kostevicki (Gulf Coast Kid's House)

BEST POLITICIAN

Winner: D.C. Reeves

Ashlee Hofberger

Michelle Salzman

Gay Valimont

BEST ADVOCACY/ACTIVIST GROUP

Winner: Strive

Food Not Bombs Pensacola

Party for Socialism & Liberation–Central

Gulf Coast

Save UWF

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

Winner: Pensacola Beach

Coastal Cat Cafe

Downtown McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST ANNUAL EVENT

Winner: Christmas on the Coast (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival

The Nutcracker (Ballet Pensacola)

Pensacola Beach Air Show

BEST FOOD EVENT

Winner: Pensacola Seafood Festival

Pensacola Crawfish Festival

Pensacola EggFest

Pensacola Greek Festival

BEST PET EVENT

Winner: Pensacola Paw-di Gras (WolfGang)

Barktoberfest (Pensacola Humane Society)

Danetoberfest (Northwest Florida

Great Dane Rescue)

Kids and Kritters Parade (Pensacola Beach Mardi Gras)

BEST SPORTS EVENT

Winner: Blue Wahoos Home Games

Ice Flyers Home Games

SEC Women's Soccer Tournament

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament

BEST PARADE

Winner: Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade

Grand Fiesta Parade

Pensacola Christmas Parade

Pensacola Paw-di Gras (WolfGang)

BEST REGULAR/REOCCURRING EVENT

Winner: Gallery Night

Going Noir Mysteries

Improvable Cause

Palafox Market

BEST FREE THING TO DO

Winner: National Naval Aviation Museum

Bands on the Bayou

Bands on the Beach

Brown Bag Opera (Pensacola Opera)

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Winner: East Hill

Cordova Park

North Hill

Scenic Heights

BEST PUBLIC PARK

Winner: Bayview Park

Blake Doyle Skatepark

Bruce Beach

Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park

BEST PET-FRIENDLY PARK

Winner: Bayview Park

Beulah Regional Park

Pensacola Beach Dog Park

Roger Scott Dog Park

BEST PLAYGROUND

Winner: Bruce Beach

Hitzman-Optimist Park

Perdido Kids Park

Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park

BEST PALAFOX MARKET VENDOR

Winner: Jade Tree Succulents

The Crafted Makerie

Nate Schweigert

The Pretty Bear's Bakery

BEST YOUTH SPORTS/REC PROGRAM

Winner: Gulf Breeze Futbol Academy

Greater Pensacola Figure Skating Club

Pensacola Youth Soccer

Southern Youth Sports Association

community, media + culture

BEST DANCE STUDIO

Winner: Ballet Pensacola

First Dance Ballroom Studio

LaBelle Performing Arts

Mixon Magic Performing Arts

BEST AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITY

Winner: Pensacola Children's Chorus

Ballet Pensacola

Neighborhood Children's Theatre

Pensacola Little Theatre

BEST SUMMER CAMP

Winner: Neighborhood Children's Theatre

Ballet Pensacola

Pensacola Children's Chorus

University of West Florida Explore Camps

BEST PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY

Winner: A Sweet Party.

Corals Closet

Pensacola Children's Museum

Pensacola MESS Hall

BEST TV STATION

Winner: WEAR

Blab TV

WKRG

WSRE

BEST RADIO STATION

Winner: Cat Country 98.7

NewsRadio 92.3/1620

TK101

WUWF 88.1

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY

Winner: Brent Lane (Cat Country 98.7)

Jordan Glass (ESPN Pensacola 1330AM/99.1FM)

Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620)

T.S. Strickland (WUWF 88.1)

BEST RADIO SHOW

Winner: The Cat Pak Morning Show (Cat Country 98.7)

The Glass Half Full with Jordan Glass (ESPN Pensacola 1330AM/99.1FM)

NPR Morning Edition (WUWF 88.1)

Pensacola Morning News with Andrew McKay (NewsRadio 92.3/1620)

BEST PODCAST

Winner: Voices United in Education (Escambia County Public Schools)

Heretics' Social Club

Meredith for Real

Practical Rebels (HatchMark Studio)

BEST WEBSITE

Winner: Visit Pensacola (visitpensacola.com)

Local Pulse (localpulse.com)

Pensacola Mom Collective (pensacola.momcollective.com)

WUWF 88.1 (wuwf.org)

BEST BUSINESS OR PERSON TO FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Winner: Pensacola Vibes

The 850 Foodie

Noteworthy by Laurel Farrell

Pensacola Mom Collective

BEST WAY TO GET CULTURED

Winner: Pensacola Opera

Ballet Pensacola

Foo Foo Fest

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra

BEST ART GALLERY/MUSEUM

Winner: Pensacola Museum of Art

309 Punk Project

Artel Gallery

Blue Morning Gallery

BEST ARTIST

Winner: Nate Schweigert

Laurel Farrell

Poppy Garcia

Sarah Soule Webb

BEST AUTHOR/WRITER

Winner: Emily Ley

Laura Soule Boyles

Maghen Gardner

Nic Schuck

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Winner: Blake Jones

Sarah Coleman

Caitlin Kersey

Sean Mullins

BEST MUSIC VENUE

Winner: The Handlebar

Betty's on Belmont

Saenger Theatre

Vinyl Music Hall

BEST BAND/MUSICIAN

Winner: Ben Loftin & The Family [glsnr]

Katie Dineen

Spiral

BEST CONCERT/CONCERT SERIES

Winner: Night Moves Fest

Bands on the Bayou

Bands on the Beach

Christmas on the Coast (Pensacola Children's Chorus)

BEST THEATER PRODUCTION

Winner: Rent (Pensacola Little Theatre)

Don Quixote (Ballet Pensacola)

ICMT Murder Mystery Company

The Marriage of Figaro (Pensacola Opera)

BEST COMEDIAN

Winner: Olivia Searcy

Kitty Get A Job

Delisia Nicholas

Jeremy Young

health + wellness

BEST GYM

Winner: Coastal Fitness Training

Anytime Fitness Cantonment

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

REGYMEN Fitness

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Winner: Bree Bishop Uher (Anytime Fitness Cantonment)

Brandee Brinker (Coastal Fitness Training)

Michelle Brooks (Elevate Training and Fitness)

Candace Rorrer (Essentially Fit)

BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO

Winner: Wild Lemon

Disko Lemonade

Essentially Fit Pure Pilates

BEST YOGA

Winner: Disko Lemonade

REGYMEN Fitness

URU Yoga & Beyond Yoga Abode

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Angie Chapa (Disko Lemonade)

Fallon Brown (URU Yoga & Beyond)

Donna Dickey (Yoga Abode)

Jessica Marickovich (REGYMEN Fitness)

BEST PILATES

Winner: Wild Lemon

Disko Lemonade

Pilates Core Training Pure Pilates

BEST FITNESS CLASSES

Winner: REGYMEN Fitness

Coastal Fitness Training

Essentially Fit

Wild Lemon

BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Winner: Sarah Jane Blakely (Wild Lemon)

Jenn Jordan (REGYMEN Fitness)

Briana Knight (Disko Lemonade)

Brenda Reedy (Coastal Fitness Training)

BEST BOOTCAMP

Winner: Coastal Fitness Training

BeachLIFE Fitness

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

Burn Boot Camp

BEST WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM

Winner: Evolve Medical

Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery

ProHealth Labs and Medical Care

Woodlands Medical Specialists

BEST RUNNING CLUB

Winner: Running Wild

200 South Tap House

Fleet Feet Pensacola

Seville Quarter

BEST RACE

Winner: Double Bridge Run

Bayou Hills Run

McGuire's St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K Run

Navy Federal Credit Union 5K

BEST PLACE TO WALK/RUN

Winner: Bayview Park

Bruce Beach

Downtown

Pensacola Bay Bridge

BEST PLACE TO RIDE A BIKE

Winner: Ride Society

Bike Pensacola's Slow Rides

Blackwater Heritage State Trail

East Hill

BEST HOSPITAL

Winner: Ascension Sacred Heart

Baptist Hospital

Gulf Breeze Hospital

HCA Florida West Hospital

BEST GENERAL CARE PHYSICIAN

Winner: Dr. Tristan Brooks (Ladder to the Stars Wellness)

Dr. Charles Blay

(Woodlands Medical Specialists)

Dr. Kacey Gibson

(Emerald Coast Medical Group)

Dr. Jennifer Miley

(Woodlands Medical Specialists)

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Winner: Dr. Craig Henry (Henry Chiropractic)

Dr. David Edge (Edge Family Chiropractic)

Dr. Lindsey Jeudevine

(Olde Seville Chiropractic)

Dr. Gabriel Waterman (Dynamic Life Chiropractic)

BEST DENTISTRY

Winner: White Smiles General Dentistry

Emerald Coast Smiles by Design

Gibson & Heath Family Dentistry

Wild Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

BEST ENDODONTICS

Winner: Elite Endodontics

Pensacola Center for Endodontics

Pensacola Endodontics

Speck Endodontics

BEST ORTHODONTICS

Winner: Fishbein Orthodontics

Shehee & Callahan Family Orthodontics

Sims Orthodontics

Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

Winner: Dr. Heather Lenga (Pensacola Pediatrics)

Dr. Randall Reese (Pensacola Pediatrics)

Dr. Jessica Tate (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Jennifer Thompson (Ascension Medical Group)

BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL

Winner: Scott Durrance, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services)

Tamara Driskell, LMHC (Arya Therapy Services)

Kam Kingsland, APRN (Apex Psychiatric Services)

Angelique Sanders, LMHC (Wellness Cooperative)

BEST OB/GYN

Winner: Dr. Brian Sontag (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Jairan L. Duke-Elmore (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Charles Medlock (Ascension Medical Group)

Dr. Erika Schneider (Baptist Medical Group)

BEST OPTOMETRIST

Winner: Dr. Lindsay Durtschi (Midtown Vision)

Dr. Jill Anderson (Clarkson Eyecare)

Dr. Mary Charbonneau (Dr. C. Vision Care)

Dr. Gene Terrezza (Terrezza Optical)

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Winner: Dr. Sean Branch (Proper Dermatology)

Dr. Jenna Beasley (Vital Dermatology)

Dr. Amy Pote Watson (Pensacola Dermatology)

Dr. Kevin Welch (Welch SkinCare Center)

BEST PLASTIC SURGERY

Winner: Shaddix Plastic Surgery

Derek Jones Facial Plastic Surgery

Frost Plastic Surgery

Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY

Winner: SWELL Physical Therapy & Performance

Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Renew Integrative Physical Therapy

Stark Performance Physical Therapy

BEST PHARMACY

Winner: First City Drugs

Community Health Northwest Florida

East Hill Pharmacy

Jackson-Pace Pharmacy

BEST WALK-IN CLINIC

Winner: ProHealth Medical Care

Ascension Sacred Heart Urgent Care

Baptist Urgent Care

Community Health Northwest Florida

BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY

Winner: Sunburn Cannabis MÜV

Sunnyside Medical Cannabis Dispensary

Surterra Wellness

Thank you Northwest Florida

BODACIOUS SHOPS

WINNER: Best Cooking Classes

Runner Up: Best Place to Buy a Wedding Gift

Runner Up: Best Gourmet/Specialty Food Shop

BODACIOUS BOOKSTORE & CAFE

Runner Up: Best Bookstore

BEST SPORTS EVENT

WINNER: Blue Wahoos Home Games

Runner Up: Best Boutique Hotel

Runner Up: Best Place for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay

STUDER

FAMILY OF COMPANIES

5ELEVEN PALAFOX

Runner Up: Best Reception

5Eleven • Blue Wahoos • Bodacious Shops • Bodacious Bookstore

Bodacious Brew Thru • Bubba’s Sweet Spot • Oyster Bay • Studer Properties

Submit your shout out: info@quintstuder.com

BEST HAIR SALON–PENSACOLA

Winner: Loxx by Natalie & Co.

The Powder Room

Salon San Carlos

UME Salon & Apothecary

BEST HAIR SALON–GULF BREEZE/ PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: The Blue Magnolia Salon

All Things Nikki

Olli+Izzie Style House

Painted Bohemian

BEST HAIR SALON–MILTON/PACE

Winner: The Hair Loft

Blush Beauty Salon

The Hair Suite Salon and Spa

Penton House Salon & Day Spa

BEST HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Brittany Hightower (Olli+Izzie Style House)

Alex Horne Garcia (Hairy Alex Horne Salon)

Samantha Gross (850 Salon & Wellness Spa)

Gabrielle Montoya-Frias (Loxx by Natalie & Co.)

BEST HAIR COLORIST

Winner: Jennifer Barberi (850 Salon & Wellness Spa)

Vanessa Myers (Vanessa Myers Hair)

Sarah Peake-Infinger (The Powder Room)

Anna Torubara (Style Downtown)

BEST BARBER SHOP

Winner: Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods

Barberos Barbershop

East Hill Barbershop

The Green Room Barbershop

BEST BARBER

Winner: Ka Noel Delarosa (Loxx by Natalie & Co.)

Scott Bissonnette (The Green Room Barbershop)

Tyler Infinger

(Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods)

Luna Zepp (Wilfrids Barber and Fine Goods)

BEST DAY SPA

Winner: Escape Wellness Spa

Cordova Skin & Body

Stay The Spa

Still Waters Day & Medical Spa

BEST MASSAGE

Winner: Escape Wellness Spa

12th Avenue Massage Therapy Group

Bodyworks of Perdido Key

Cordova Skin & Body

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

Winner: Jen Bryars (Escape Wellness Spa)

Twanda Bell (Cordova Skin & Body)

Ben Driskell (Emerald Coast IV

Hydration & Wellness)

Whitney Pike (Escape Wellness Spa)

BEST PEDICURE

Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar

Artsy Nails

Herbal Nails & Spa

Vibar Nails

BEST MANICURE

Winner: Élan The Beauty Bar

Artsy Nails

Haus of FIDI Salon & Spa

Vibar Nails

BEST NAIL ARTIST

Winner: Van Nguyen (Élan The Beauty Bar)

Savannah Locklin (Gilded Pensacola)

Kailyn Meyer (Nails by Kai)

Tuyet Nhung Phan (Élan The Beauty Bar)

BEST HAIR REMOVAL

Winner: Beauty and the Beam Laser and Electrolysis

Dela Beauty Bar

Mind Body & Soul Medical

Rae & Co Esthetics Studio

BEST FACIAL/SKIN CARE

Winner: Rae & Co Esthetics Studio

Escape Wellness Spa

Mind Body & Soul Medical

Skin by Flynn

BEST ESTHETICIAN

Winner: Tiffany Miller (Rae & Co Esthetics Studio)

Lauren Massey Bell (Escape Wellness Spa)

Molly Flynn (Skin by Flynn)

Ingrid Patterson (Mind Body & Soul Medical)

BEST BANK

Winner: Regions Bank

PNC Bank

Synovus Bank

Truist

BEST CREDIT UNION

Winner: Navy Federal Credit Union

Gulf Winds Credit Union

Members First Credit Union of Florida

PenAir Credit Union

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Winner: Andrew Martin (Atlas Financial Strategies)

Jacey Cosentino (Edward Jones)

Mary Catherine Harper

(Merrill Lynch Wealth Management)

Andrew McNair (SWAN Capital)

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM

Winner: Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund

Hale and Doerr

Wade Wilson

Warren Averett

BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL

ESTATE AGENCY

Winner: Levin Rinke Realty

Conna O'Donovan Real Estate

Engel & Völkers

Kuhn Realty

BEST COMMERCIAL REAL

ESTATE AGENCY

Winner: NAI Pensacola

Bellcore Commercial

SVN Southland Commercial

The Zimmern Team

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Winner: Simone Sands (Engel & Völkers)

Amber Jernigan (Keller Williams)

Conna O'Donovan (Conna O'Donovan

Real Estate)

Kira Santos (Levin Rinke Realty)

BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Winner: Celestine Bed and Breakfast

Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel

Solé Inn and Suites

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX

Winner: Avalon Apartments

Azalea Bay Apartments

The Crossings at Milestone

Palmilla

BEST ARCHITECTURE FIRM

Winner: Dalrymple | Sallis Architecture

Brett Duch Architect

Caldwell Architects

DAG Architects

BEST LAW FIRM

Winner: Taylor, Warren, Weidner, Hancock & Barnes, P.A.

Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz, PLLC

Crawford Law

Levin Papantonio

BEST ATTORNEY

Winner: Chris Crawford (Crawford Law)

Aaron Watson (The Watson Firm, PLLC)

Keith Weidner (Taylor, Warren, Weidner, Hancock & Barnes, P.A.)

Joe Zarzaur (Zarzaur Law P.A.)

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Winner: John Shaffer (State Farm)

Joe Pace, Jr. (Pace & Sons Insurance)

Chris Proctor (State Farm)

Will Rentschler (State Farm)

BEST VETERINARY CLINIC

Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

Davis Animal Hospital

East Hill Animal Hospital

Pine Meadow Veterinary Clinic

BEST DOG GROOMER

Winner: Vanity Fur

Cozy Corner Grooming & Boarding

The Groomery

ShamPoochies

BEST DOG TRAINING

Winner: Off Leash K9 Training

Emerald Coast

Blended K9 Solutions

Lily Hall

East Bay Dog Spot

Hands and Paws Canine Training

BEST PET BOARDING/VACATION CARE

Winner: Spanish Trail Veterinary Hospital

Cozy Corner Grooming & Boarding

Miss Pearl's Bed & Biscuit

Pensacola Pet Resort, Too

BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

Winner: Hanto + Clarke

General Contractors

Bear General Contractors

Morette Company

ParsCo Construction

BEST LANDSCAPING

Winner: Eye Candy Lawns

A Cut Above Landscaping

New Roots Lawn & Landscapes

The Wallace Company

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM/COMPANY

Winner: PV Cobia Photography

Lother Co.

McKinley Made Riptide Media

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER

Winner: Blu Salmon

KMCC Design Co.

Lacy Phillips Designs

Nest Interiors Inc.

BEST CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING

Winner: Aiken Picture Frames South Framing by Design

Just Plain Putter

Marty Campbell Gallery & Frame Shop

BEST TATTOO/PIERCING STUDIO

Winner: The Western Rose

Dragoncat Tattoo

Fortune Tattoo

Portside Tattoo

BEST TATTOO ARTIST

Winner: Robert Smith (Fates Tattoo)

Carrie Daniels (Fortune Tattoo)

Dave Ham (The Western Rose)

Victoria Higgins (The Western Rose)

BEST SPECIAL EVENT SPACE

Winner: Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

Court of De Luna Event Space

Culinary Productions, Inc.

The Loft at The Mercantile

BEST PARTY DECOR

Winner: Blaque Balloon Designs

Bashes & Bubbly

Blushing Balloons

Light Bright Events

BEST MOBILE EVENT

SERVICE/EXPERIENCE

Winner: Whim Cotton Candy

Get Lit Pensacola

Tap the Coast

The Thirsty Ranch

BEST CATERER

Winner: Culinary Productions, Inc.

850 Barbecue

Classic City Catering

Four Seasons Catering and Eatery

BEST FLORIST

Winner: Fiore of Pensacola

Celebrations The Florist

Just Judy's Flowers, Local Art & Gifts

Sunshine Designs Florist

BEST PORTRAIT/ FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner: Christy Kerr Photography

Geoff Peck Creative Services

Kelsei Frazier Photography

Lindsey Friar Photography

BEST TAILOR/ALTERATIONS

Winner: Ruthy's Creations and Alterations

3 Muses Costumes & Alterations

Bosa's Tailor Shop

Julie's Sew Shoppe

BEST CAR WASH/DETAILER

Winner: Perdido Auto Spa

Eco Car Wash

Ronny's Car Wash

Touch of Class Detail

BEST AUTO SERVICE SHOP

Winner: Pensacola A/C & Auto Service Center

Cannon Automotive

East Hill Automotive Center

Evans Automotive Service Center

BEST GREEN BUSINESS

Winner: Salon San Carlos

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

The Farm

SunFarm Energy

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Winner: Basis Salon

A Sweet Party.

Emerald Coast IV Hydration & Wellness

UME Salon & Apothecary

BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE

Winner: Pensacola Picnic Co.

Celestine Bed and Breakfast

Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor Marina

Pensacola Beach

BEST PLACE TO BUY AN ENGAGEMENT RING

Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop

Beasley Jewelers and Design

Beré Jewelers

Elebash's Jewelers

BEST CEREMONY VENUE

Winner: The Sanctuary Event

Venue Pensacola

Live Oak Pensacola

Old Christ Church

Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

BEST RECEPTION VENUE

Winner: Supposey Warehouse & Gardens

The Bridal Suite

Nixon's

Simply Elegant Couture Bridal

BEST BRIDAL MAKEUP ARTIST

Winner: Karla Yepez

(Karlatina Bridal Artistry)

Kendall Frazee (Skin by Kendall Lyn)

Kendra Korn (Kendra K Beauty)

Jo Rich (Jo Rich Beauty)

BEST WEDDING HAIR SALON

Winner: The Powder Room

Basis Salon

Hair + Co

Sharp and the Swann

BEST WEDDING HAIR STYLIST

Winner: Tonya Penrose (The Powder Room)

Myka Chambers (Myka Abigail Hair Artist)

Eleanor Edmonds (Basis Salon)

BEST PHOTO BOOTH

Winner: Phocus & Company

Gulf Coast Photo Booth

The Posey Bus

Rock Your Photo Booth

BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY

Winner: StoryLive Productions

Aislinn Kate Weddings

JD Cobb Films

Phocus & Company

BEST WEDDING BAND

Winner: The Six Piece Suits

Marvelous Strings

Nobius

Stormfolk

BEST WEDDING DJ

Winner: DJ Phatchi & Co.

AnyDayDJ

Chelsey Swann (Sharp and the Swann)

BEST WEDDING PLANNING

Winner: Weddings and Events by Jeff

Southern Frills Weddings & Events

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner: Aislinn Kate Weddings

Sarah Coleman Photography

Kate's Cakes

Moonbeam Bakery

BEST WEDDING FLORIST

Winner: Chrissy Floral Design

Fete + Flora Events

Fiore of Pensacola

Florals by Mallori

BEST WEDDING RENTALS

Winner: Sexton's Event Company

Events Styled by LUXE

La-T-Da Events

WeddingWalls

BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING GIFT

Winner: Artesana

Bodacious Shops

duh for garden and home

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

DJ TreVy

Southbay Event Group

BEST WEDDING CATERER

Winner: Classic City Catering

Culinary Productions, Inc.

Greek's Catering and Events

Nancy's Catering & Events

BEST WEDDING CAKE

Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery

Betty Weber Cakes

BEST PLACE FOR A REHEARSAL DINNER

Winner: The Grand Marlin

Brother Fox

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company

BEST PLACE FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS TO STAY

Winner: Lily Hall

Celestine Bed and Breakfast

Hilton Pensacola Beach

Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

Winner: Pete Moore Automotive Team

Kia Autosport of Pensacola

Pensacola Honda

Sandy Sansing

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Winner: Ride MORE Bicycles

Bikes Plus

CycleSports Bicycles

Truly Spokin'

BEST BOUTIQUE

Winner: SoBo Boutique

Bluetique

Drift Boutique

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

BEST MEN'S APPAREL

Winner: Garden Street Vintage

Don Alans

Intracoastal Outfitters

Waterboyz

BEST WOMEN'S APPAREL

Winner: SoBo Boutique

Aleuma

Bluetique

Gray Boutique

BEST CHILDREN'S APPAREL/GIFTS

Winner: Corals Closet

Artesana Baby & Child

Rusted Arrow Mercantile

SoBo Boutique

BEST ACCESSORIES

Winner: Glassy Day Studio

Blue House Curio

The Crafted Makerie

Thorn & Thistle

BEST THRIFT STORE

Winner: Teen Challenge SuperThrift

Goodwill Gulf Coast

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store

Waterfront Thrift Store

BEST ATHLETIC/OUTDOOR STORE

Winner: Running Wild

Fleet Feet Pensacola

Waterboyz

Weatherford's

BEST FURNITURE/HOME DECOR STORE

Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile

All About Antiques

Blue Moon Antique Mall

duh for garden and home

BEST ANTIQUES

Winner: Rosie's Antique Emporium

All About Antiques

Blue Moon Antique Mall

Oooodles Antiques

BEST VINTAGE SHOP/SELLER

Winner: Rocket To Saturn Vintage

Garden Street Vintage

The Hippie's Greenhouse

Obsolete Heat

BEST MARKET/SHOPPING EVENT

Winner: Palafox Market

Odd Colony Brewing Company

Pensacola Arts Market

Pensacola Vintage Collective

BEST MAKER/ARTISAN

Winner: Pensacola Candle Company

Aleuma

Erika Ceramics

Glassy Day Studio

BEST GIFT SHOP

Winner: Rusted Arrow Mercantile

Artesana

Celebrations The Florist

Unique Boutique

BEST BOOKSTORE

Winner: The Idle Reader

Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe

Friends of West Florida Public Library

Pensacola Branch Bookstore

Open Books

BEST COMIC BOOK STORE

Winner: Pensacola Pop Comics

Area 51

Mr. Comics

TBS Comics

BEST TOY/COLLECTABLE STORE

Winner: Hyperspace Toys

Area 51

Level Up Gaming

Video Game Trading Post

BEST NEW STORE

Winner: Corals Closet

Grocery Bros

Scenic Ace Hardware

Unique Boutique

BEST JEWELER

Winner: Jewelers Trade Shop

Beré Jewelers

Elebash's Jewelers

Susan Campbell Jewelry

BEST SURF/SKATE SHOP

Winner: Waterboyz

Bear Walker

Innerlight Surf Shop

Maverick Board Riding Company

BEST NURSERY/PLANTS

Winner: Bailey's Produce & Nursery

Jade Tree Succulents

Pensacola Seed & Garden

Pinelands Nursery Company

BEST HARDWARE STORE

Winner: Pensacola Hardware

Hall's Hardware & Lumber

Pensacola Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Scenic Ace Hardware

BEST COMPUTER/TECH STORE

Winner: Palafox Computers

Tech Advanced Computers

The Tech Handyman

YourTEK Professionals

BEST MUSIC GEAR/INSTRUMENTS

Winner: Blues Angel Music

A Joyful Noise Music Store

Leitz Music

Schmidt's Music

BEST RECORD STORE

Winner: Revolver Records

Easy Going Records + Hifi

Loe-Fi Records

Music Box Pensacola

BEST LIQUOR STORE

Winner: Richey's East

The Bottle Shop

Fusion Fine Wine & Spirits

Paradise Liquors

BEST WINE SHOP

Winner: Aragon Wine Market + Wine Bar

The Bottle Shop

A Curious Wine Shop

The East Hill Bottle Shop

BEST WINE TASTINGS

Winner: A Curious Wine Shop

Aragon Wine Market + Wine Bar

The Bottle Shop

The East Hill Bottle Shop

BEST GROCERY STORE

Winner: Apple Market

Bailey's Produce & Nursery

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

The Farm

BEST PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE

Winner: The Farm

Bailey's Produce & Nursery

Bypass Farmers Market & Oriental Food

Palafox Market

BEST INTERNATIONAL FOOD MARKET

Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli

Chen's Biên Đông Oriental Market

Four Winds International Market

Tony's Asian Market

BEST GOURMET/SPECIALTY FOOD SHOP

Winner: Four Winds International Market

Bodacious Olive

Costello's Butcher Shop

J.W. Renfroe Pecan Co.

bars, drinks + nightlife

BEST BAR OVERALL

Winner: The Well

Alga Beer Co.

Betty's on Belmont

Old Hickory Whiskey Bar

BEST NIGHT CLUB

Winner: Seville Quarter

Betty's on Belmont

The Cabaret

The Roundup

BEST BAR–DOWNTOWN

Winner: Intermission

Odd Colony Brewing Company

Old Hickory Whiskey Bar

The Well

BEST BAR–CORDOVA AREA

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

East Hill Wine Bar

Spanish Trail Pub & Eatery

Wisteria Tavern

BEST BAR–NORTH PENSACOLA/ NINE MILE ROAD

Winner: Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Coastal County Brewing

Sammy Barker's

The Ticket Sports Bar

BEST BAR–WEST PENSACOLA/ PERDIDO KEY

Winner: Gary's Brewery & Biergarten

The Elbow Room

Flora-Bama

Perdido Key Sports Bar & Restaurant

BEST BAR–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: Sneaky Tiki Bar

Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar

Casino Beach Bar & Grille

Paradise Bar & Grill

BEST BAR–MILTON/PACE

Winner: Beardless Brewhaus

The Country Gym

Gulf Coast Garage Patio Bar

The Prost Office Brewery

BEST NEW BAR

Winner: Betty's on Belmont

850 Seafood & Grill

East Hill Wine Bar

The Florida Room

BEST DRINK SPECIALS

Winner: Play

Garden & Grain

Intermission

O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown

BEST DAY DRINKING

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

The Burrow

Garden & Grain

Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST DRINK MENU

Winner: The Well

Old Hickory Whiskey Bar

Pearl & Horn

Sister Hen

BEST DAIQUIRIS/FROZEN DRINKS

Winner: Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar

The Florida Room

Flounder's Chowder House

Perennial Patio Bar

BEST BLOODY MARY

Winner: Ruby Slipper

Aunt Katie's

Five Sisters Blues Café

Pensacola Crawfish Festival

BEST MIMOSA

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown

Ruby Slipper

South Market

BEST MARTINI

Winner: Pearl & Horn

The Kennedy

McGuire's Irish Pub

The Well

BEST SELECTION OF WINE

Winner: The Wine Bar on Palafox

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

East Hill Wine Bar

Union Public House

BEST MARGARITA

Winner: Garden & Grain

Agave

El Paso Mexican Grill

Juan's Flying Burrito

BEST SIGNATURE DRINK

Winner: Chef George Martini (Pearl & Horn)

King Koopa (Play)

The Old Hickory (Old Hickory Whiskey Bar)

Purple Dragon (Garden & Grain)

BEST NA DRINK OPTIONS

Winner: The Kennedy

Pearl & Horn

Sister Hen

Union Public House

BEST BREWERY

Winner: Odd Colony Brewing Company

Alga Beer Co.

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST SELECTION OF BEER ON TAP

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

200 South Tap House

Odd Colony Brewing Company

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

BEST BAR STAFF

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

Betty's on Belmont

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Play

BEST BARTENDER

Winner: Kelly Soto-Medrano (Pearl & Horn)

Daisy Doyle (Betty's on Belmont)

Drew Hurlimann (The Well)

Troy Mathis (Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse)

BEST DJ

Winner: dr0ne

DJ Guapo

DJ Tiger

DJ TreVy

BEST DRAG PERFORMER

Winner: Alastina Jade Samore

Terrah Card

Monica Heart

Kendyll Michaels

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

Betty's on Belmont

The Burrow

Wisteria Tavern

BEST PET-FRIENDLY BAR

Winner: Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

Alga Beer Co.

The Burrow

Coastal County Brewing

BEST BAR WITH A VIEW

Winner: Calvert's in the Heights

Casino Beach Bar & Grille

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

Sneaky Tiki Bar

BEST BAR AMBIANCE

Winner: Sister Hen

Betty's on Belmont

The Elbow Room

The Well

BEST BAR FOR GAMES

Winner: Play

The Elbow Room

The Grid Arcade

O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown

BEST TRIVIA NIGHT

Winner: Alga Beer Co.

Gary's Brewery & Biergarten

Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

The Roundup

BEST KARAOKE NIGHT

Winner: Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Betty's on Belmont

The Handlebar

Play

BEST PUB CRAWL/BAR EVENT

Winner: Santa Pub Crawl

(O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown)

Oktoberfest (Alga Beer Co.)

Polar Bear Plunge (Paradise Bar & Grill)

St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl

(Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce)

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC

Winner: The Handlebar

Betty's on Belmont

Goat Lips Chew and Brewhouse

Seville Quarter

BEST BAR FOOD

Winner: The Elbow Room

Betty's on Belmont

El Camino Tacos (at Garden & Grain)

The Kennedy

restaurants

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Brother Fox

Pearl & Horn

BEST RESTAURANT–DOWNTOWN

Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Pearl & Horn

Restaurant IRON

Union Public House

BEST RESTAURANT–CORDOVA AREA

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

O'Brien's Bistro

Sake Cafe

The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria

BEST RESTAURANT–EAST HILL

Winner: The Burrow

A Mano Panino

Cactus Flower Cafe

East Hill Wine Bar

BEST RESTAURANT–NORTH PENSACOLA/ NINE MILE ROAD

Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill

Petrella's Italian Cafe

Sammy Barker's

Tokyo Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

BEST RESTAURANT–WEST PENSACOLA/ PERDIDO KEY

Winner: Steel Pony Diner

Fisherman's Corner

Hub Stacey's at The Point

The Jellyfish

BEST RESTAURANT–EAST PENSACOLA HEIGHTS

Winner: Agapi Bistro + Garden

Calvert's in the Heights

Don Cha Peruvian Food

New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST RESTAURANT–GULF BREEZE

Winner: The Pointe

Buenos Dias Cafe

Shan Kishi Japanese Hibachi

Tacos Rock

BEST RESTAURANT–PENSACOLA BEACH

Winner: The Grand Marlin

Flounder's Chowder House

Native Cafe

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST RESTAURANT–MILTON/PACE

Winner: Blackwater Bistro

850 Barbecue

Bhan Thai Cuisine

The Fishing Hole

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Winner: Reservoir

Good Day, Darling

Nolita's Parlor & Eatery

Steel Pony Diner

BEST BAKERY

Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery

J's Bakery and Catering

Milton Quality Bakery

Moonbeam Bakery

BEST BREAKFAST

Winner: Native Cafe

Aunt Katie's

Coffee Cup Restaurant

Good Day, Darling

BEST BRUNCH

Winner: George Bistro + Bar

Agapi Bistro + Garden

Brother Fox

Ruby Slipper

BEST LUNCH

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

Jackson's Steakhouse

Restaurant IRON

SaBai on Jefferson

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Winner: MI SU Street Food

Brown Bagger

Greek's Catering and Events

O.G. Lola's

BEST GREEK CUISINE

Winner: Greek's Catering and Events

Agapi Bistro + Garden

Founaris Bros. Greek Restaurant

Hip Pocket Deli

BEST MEXICAN CUISINE

Winner: Cactus Flower Cafe

Tacos El Fluffy

Tacos Rock

Taqueria El Asador

BEST ITALIAN CUISINE

Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Bonelli's

Petrella's Italian Cafe

V. Paul's Italian Ristorante

BEST CAJUN CUISINE

Winner: VooDoo BBQ & Grill

Cafe Nola

Cub's Crawfish

Restaurant NOLA

BEST CHINESE CUISINE

Winner: New Hong Kong House

Chen's Kitchen

Uncle Jiang

Xian Noodle Place

BEST JAPANESE CUISINE

Winner: Sake Cafe

Ichiban

Kalbi Ichiban

Shan Kishi Japanese Hibachi

BEST THAI CUISINE

Winner: SaBai on Jefferson

Siam Thai

Taste of Thai

Thai Street Food by Chef Eddy

BEST INDIAN CUISINE

Winner: Taste of India

Dinner India

Indian Grill

Sree's Kitchen

BEST VIETNAMESE CUISINE

Winner: Saigon Oriental Market and Deli

Basil & Sprout

Pho Golden Palace

Quickly

BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN CUISINE

Winner: End of the Line Cafe

O.G. Lola's

Pretty Baked

Steel Pony Diner

BEST SUSHI

Winner: Sake Cafe

Dharma Blue

Ichiban

Wako Japanese Cuisine

BEST GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS

Winner: Pearl & Horn

Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

Good Day, Darling

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

BEST SEAFOOD

Winner: Pearl & Horn

The Fish House

The Grand Marlin

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Winner: Jackson's Steakhouse

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

McGuire's Irish Pub

Restaurant IRON

BEST BBQ

Winner: Hot Spot Barbecue

850 Barbecue

Brothers BBQ

VooDoo BBQ & Grill

BEST SOUL FOOD

Winner: Five Sisters Blues Café

The Dwarf Chicken Stand

Family Ty's Good Eats

Hattie Marie's Cafe

BEST WINE MENU

Winner: Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

Agapi Bistro + Garden

East Hill Wine Bar

The Wine Bar on Palafox

BEST ORIGINAL MENU

Winner: Restaurant IRON

Brother Fox

restaurants + food

Pearl & Horn

Union Public House

BEST CHEF

Winner: Ian Gillette

(Angelena's Ristorante Italiano)

Darian Hernandez (Brother Fox)

George Lazi (George Bistro + Bar and Pearl & Horn)

Carolyn Ore (George Bistro + Bar)

BEST UP-AND-COMING CHEF

Winner: Jacob Morris (Brother Fox)

Maddie Galvan (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano)

Lawrence Johnson (Agapi Bistro + Garden)

Ladarion McGee (Pearl & Horn)

BEST WAIT STAFF

Winner: Restaurant IRON

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano

The Burrow

SaBai on Jefferson

BEST SERVER

Winner: Brett Brownell

(Angelena's Ristorante Italiano)

Merrin Lepley (SaBai on Jefferson)

Maddie Myers (SaBai on Jefferson)

Ryan Seeley (The Grand Marlin)

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Winner: Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Alla Prima Coffee Roaster

Fosko Coffee Barre

Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

BEST BARISTA

Winner: Kylie Williams (George Bistro + Bar)

Heather Bowman

(Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar)

Precious Murphy

(Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee)

Sabrina Valderrama (Craft Gourmet Bakery)

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Winner: The Burrow

The Fish House

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

Reservoir

BEST PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Winner: The Burrow

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

Lucy's in the Square

The Oar House

BEST TAKEOUT/TO GO

Winner: SaBai on Jefferson

Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

East Hill Pizza

MI SU Street Food

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE

Winner: Union Public House

Brother Fox

Global Grill

Restaurant IRON

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A BIRTHDAY DINNER

Winner: Restaurant IRON

Brother Fox

The Elbow Room

McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPORTS FANS

Winner: Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

200 South Tap House

Sammy Barker's

The Ticket Sports Bar

BEST LATE NIGHT EATS

Winner: The Elbow Room

Betty's on Belmont

Graffiti Pizza

McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS

Winner: McGuire's Irish Pub

The Fish House

Peg Leg Pete's

Restaurant IRON

BEST GONE-BUT-NOTFORGOTTEN RESTAURANT

Winner: Kingfisher

chizuko

The Magnolia Skopelos

food

BEST UNIQUELY PENSACOLA DISH

Winner: Grits à Ya Ya (The Fish House)

Fried Red Snapper Collar (Pearl & Horn)

Gulf Scamp Cervantes (Agapi Bistro + Garden)

Spanish Crab Melt (Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas)

BEST CUP OF COFFEE

Winner: Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

Alla Prima Coffee Roaster

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

The Rex Cafe

BEST COLD BREW

Winner: Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee

Bear Fruit Bowls & Coffee

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

BEST LATTE

Winner: Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Craft Gourmet Bakery

George Bistro + Bar

Maker's Cafe & Espresso Bar

BEST ICED TEA

Winner: Sweet Jackson Tea

Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

Craft Gourmet Bakery

SaBai on Jefferson

BEST JUICES/SMOOTHIES

Winner: Good Day, Darling

Cafe Single Fin

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

Sean's Smoothie Shack

BEST PIZZA

Winner: Sky's Pizza Pie

East Hill Pizza

Flour-ish Comfort Food Truck

Graffiti Pizza

BEST STEAK

Winner: Restaurant IRON

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

Jackson's Steakhouse

McGuire's Irish Pub

BEST BURRITO

Winner: Juan's Flying Burrito

Cactus Flower Cafe

Tacos El Fluffy

Taqueria El Asador

BEST TACO

Winner: Taqueria El Asador

Juan's Flying Burrito

Tacos El Fluffy

Tacos Mexicanos

BEST SOUP

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

The Elbow Room

New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

Steel Pony Diner

BEST DELI

Winner: New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

A Mano Panino

Apple Market

Costello's Butcher Shop

BEST BREAD

Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery

A Mano Panino

Emerald Coast Bread Company

Heritage Bread Co.

BEST SANDWICH

Winner: #7 "Il Trovatore" (A Mano Panino)

MI SU Melt (MI SU Street Food)

Prego: Steak Sandwich (Steel Pony Diner)

Spanish Crab Melt (Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas)

BEST CHICKEN SALAD

Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery

Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

Good Day, Darling

New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria

BEST BURGER

Winner: MI SU Street Food

Brown Bagger

The Burrow

Sauce Boss Burger Co.

BEST APPETIZERS

Winner: Union Public House

The Burrow

George Bistro + Bar

Global Grill

BEST PASTRIES

Winner: Craft Gourmet Bakery

End of the Line Cafe

Jitterbug Beverage Co.

Naree's Baked Goods

BEST BREAKFAST DISH/MENU ITEM

Winner: Monica's Morning Burritos (Aunt Katie's)

Biscuits & Sausage Gravy (Steel Pony Diner)

The Gulf Coast Seafood Omelet (Native Cafe)

Khachapuri (Craft Gourmet Bakery)

BEST GRITS

Winner: The Fish House

Aunt Katie's

Coffee Cup Restaurant

George Bistro + Bar

BEST DONUTS

Winner: Parlor Doughnuts

Más Que Dulces

Maynard's Donuts & Coffee

Milton Quality Bakery

BEST FRIES

Winner: MI SU Street Food

Brown Bagger

George Bistro + Bar

Greek's Catering and Events

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Winner: MI SU Street Food

The Dwarf Chicken Stand

Five Sisters Blues Café

Four Seasons Catering and Eatery

BEST WINGS

Winner: Sidelines Sports Bar and Restaurant

The Burrow Grover's Fingers and Wings

Hub Stacey's

BEST OYSTERS

Winner: Pearl & Horn

Atlas Oyster House

Maria's Olde East Hill Grill

Peg Leg Pete's

BEST SALADS

Winner: Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

End of the Line Cafe

Good Day, Darling Union Public House

BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN DISH

Winner: Chef Salad (End of the Line Cafe)

Chef's Curry (SaBai on Jefferson)

Vegan Sampler Platter (Ethiopian Cuisine by Friends)

Wang Dang Wrap (Pretty Baked)

BEST DESSERTS

Winner: Chrisoula's Cheesecake Shoppe

Más Que Dulces

Naree's Baked Goods

Nolita's Parlor & Eatery

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN

YOGURT/GELATO

Winner: Lamonte Gelato

Coastal Chill Company

Nolita's Parlor & Eatery

Wild Honey Frozen Yogurt

BEST CAKES/CUPCAKES

Winner: Moonbeam Bakery

Craft Gourmet Bakery

Kate's Cakes

Sophie's Sweets

BEST COOKIES

Winner: Nolita's Parlor & Eatery

Itsa Cookie

Kate's Cakes

Pretty Baked

BEST LUNCH SPECIALS

Winner: East Hill Pizza

Carmen's Lunch Bar & Tapas

Restaurant IRON

SaBai on Jefferson

BEST WEEKLY SPECIAL

Winner: Frito's Chicken Shop (MI SU Street Food)

Green Bucket Sundays (The Farm)

Prime Time Tuesday (Jackson's Steakhouse)

Super Tuscan Tuesday (Angelena's Ristorante Italiano)

BEST COOKING CLASSES

Winner: Bodacious Shops

Ever'man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe

restaurants + food

Jackson's Steakhouse

Pensacola Cooks Commissary and Classroom

BEST FOOD MANUFACTURER

Winner: The Sealey Sauce Company

The Black Garlic Market

The Hummus Lady

Whim Cotton Candy

BEST BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER

Winner: Big Jerk Soda Co.

Mrs. Jones Cold Brew Coffee

Pensa-Cola

Sweet Jackson Tea

BEST MOBILE BEVERAGE SERVICE

Winner: Tap the Coast

Second Wind Beverages & Snacks

The Thirsty Ranch

Tin Can Coffee & More

featured runners-up

community, media + culture

3 09 PUNK PROJECT

309 N. Sixth Ave., 309punkproject.org

What inspired you to get started? The 309 Punk House has been a hub of Pensacola's music and arts scenes for decades. 309 Punk Project formed in 2016 to preserve the house, to promote the creative contributions of the punk subculture in the Deep South and to foster community.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Having a safe and authentic arts and culture space for the Pensacola community is so important, especially now as those spaces are threatened. The caliber of artists we've been able to have at the house and the support we've received from the community motivates us to keep going.

What does being the "best" mean to you? We're at our best when we're building an authentic, inclusive community that centers the arts as a powerful force for transformation. We love this community, and we appreciate the support. Our recent recognition by the Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts is a real honor, too.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

We are constantly working at preserving and improving the 309 house to increase our sustainability. As we enter our 10th year as an organization, we hope to make some upgrades to make the place more physically accessible for anyone to visit and experience our vibrant arts community.

Answers by: Lauren Anzaldo, Special Projects Coordinator

BALLET PENSACOLA

400 S. Jefferson St., balletpensacola.org

What inspired you to get started? Ballet Pensacola began with a simple belief: dance is for everyone. Our founders wanted to build a home for artists, students and dance lovers—a space where movement could uplift, inspire, unite and create lasting community.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The joy dance brings to our community. From age 3 to professional dancers and lifelong patrons, Ballet Pensacola fosters a love of ballet at every stage of life. Sharing that love and watching it spread across generations fuels everything we do.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Uplifting and inspiring our entire community

through world-class performances and inclusive training programs that make dance meaningful and accessible for everyone. We create opportunities for growth, connection and artistry, making ballet something for our entire community.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? This upcoming season, we'll continue inspiring through innovative collaborations that deepen our impact and expand our artistic reach. Our mission, to enhance the cultural life of the community by developing an appreciation and knowledge of dance (by producing quality dance performances and exceptional dance training), is always our goal.

Answers by: Sara Williamson, Operations Director, Debi Janea, Academy Director and Veronica Ramirez, Company Director

BLUE WAHOOS

351 W. Cedar St., bluewahoos.com

What inspired you to get started? We were inspired to bring affiliated Double-A baseball to Pensacola, enhancing community spirit and creating a top-tier fan experience at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our fans' passion, community pride and the joy of delivering unforgettable baseball experiences at Blue Wahoos Stadium drive us to keep pushing forward, improving and celebrating Pensacola's spirit.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Creating unforgettable fan experiences, fostering community pride and delivering top-tier baseball with family fun at the heart of everything we do for Pensacola.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

To continue expanding year-round events alongside baseball. Hosting more concerts, community festivals and sports tournaments to boost Pensacola's vibrancy.

Answers by: Ron Stallcup, Chief Content Officer at Studer Family of Companies

CAITLIN ELIZABETH

PHOTOGRAPHY CO.

caitlinelizabethco.com

What inspired you to get started? I've always been drawn to capturing the little moments that tell a bigger story. What began as a creative outlet quickly turned into a passion for freezing time,

emotion and connection. Photography gave me a way to express how I see the world. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The impact my work has on others. Whether it's preserving meaningful moments or evoking emotion through images, that connection drives me. I'm inspired by the people I meet, the stories I get to tell and growing creatively with every shoot. Everything new to capture keeps the passion alive.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Showing up with passion, consistency and integrity. Always pushing to grow, create with purpose and serve others with excellence. It's not about titles, but the impact you leave behind and the standard you set for yourself every day.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Expanding my digital marketing offers for brands, building a stronger personal brand for others and helping others grow through content strategy and visual storytelling. I'm focused on blending creativity with strategy to reach wider audiences and create lasting impact.

Answers by: Caitlin Kersey, Owner

COASTAL CAT CAFE

1508 W. Garden St., coastalcatpcola.com

What inspired you to get started? My love for animals and the clear need in our community for a space focused on helping less fortunate kitties. I started Coastal Cat Cafe to give them a better chance at finding safe, loving homes.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The kitties, 100%. We've helped nearly 300 find loving homes, and each adoption fuels us. Knowing they're safe, loved and no longer struggling is everything.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Doing the most good—putting the cats first, creating a joyful space for our community and making every decision with heart.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'd love to secure a permanent location in Pensacola that we can grow into, and eventually open a second cafe to help even more kitties in need.

Answers by: Adrienne Brynteson, Owner

FIRST DANCE BALLROOM STUDIO

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, firstdanceballroomstudio.com

What inspired you to get started? I wanted

to create a place where everyone could learn to dance, and there's not just one way to get there. I love that our studio has become a dance family where people support each other and love sharing dance and music together.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We are a little studio with big dreams. I believe that the more you put into your community, the more it gets back. But what always makes my day is having someone come in who is nervous and not sure if they will like dance, but they leave smiling.

What does being the "best" mean to you? That I'm doing something right and creating a meaningful impact around me.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? There's always another show in the future with a new charity sponsor to support. My goal is to always improve myself, though, so that I can be a better teacher every day.

Answers by: Margaret Takacs, Owner

GOING NOIR MYSTERIES

goingnoirmysteries.com

What inspired you to get started? I've loved entertaining and diving into immersive experiences for as long as I can remember. Been acting since I was 3. It's a huge blessing to do what I love for a living. Getting in front of people and making them feel something keeps me going every day.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Finding ways to make each performance better. Whether it's tweaking technical details, adding costumes or updating scripts, there's always room to improve. Theater is never perfect, but chasing those improvements is a fun, never-ending journey.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Creating unforgettable shows that stay with the audience. It's not about perfection but sparking joy, curiosity, laughter and offering a brief escape from reality. If guests leave smiling, discussing the experience, maybe even a little fooled, I know I've done my job.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm always chasing new and innovative ways to entertain an audience. Professionally, I want to push the boundaries of a "show" and leave my creative mark on everything I direct. Personally, I'm learning to slow down, savor the journey and bring more intention to each step forward.

Answers by: Clayton Habecker, Director/Owner

GREAT GULFCOAST

ARTS FESTIVAL

ggaf.org

What inspired you to get started? More than 50 years ago, a few Pensacola art patrons were inspired by a festival in Annapolis to create a gathering in downtown Pensacola to celebrate the arts. The first festival was held in 1973 at the Bayfront Municipal Auditorium (now Plaza de Luna) and drew more than 7,000 people. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? GGAF is an all-volunteer nonprofit. The committee members who organize the festival's juried fine art show, heritage arts, music stage, dance stage, children's area, food vendors, sponsors and volunteers are motivated by their love of the arts and of the Pensacola community. It's hard work, but so worth the effort.

What does being the "best" mean to you? When you consider the original vision of what could be done to promote the arts if people were willing to pool their energy and resources, it's rewarding to be part of a beloved Pensacola tradition. We take great pride in being considered one of the best by Inweekly readers. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We hope to keep the festival strong for future generations. We would like to see fresh faces added to the committee to bring new ideas and enthusiasm for the arts. We also need a lot of volunteers to help during festival weekend. Volunteering at GGAF is fun.

Answers by: Joy Ward, GGAF Art Show Committee Member

GREATER PENSACOLA FIGURE SKATING CLUB

pensacolafigureskating.com

What inspired you to get started? My girls began skating here in 2013 and fell in love with it. At that time, figure skating in Pensacola was a wellkept secret. After being a part of the program for a short time and witnessing the positive benefits, I knew it was something I wanted to support. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The smiles on the skaters' faces and the pride in their accomplishments. Witnessing someone find "their thing." Seeing the adaptive skaters on the ice and watching them grow. The possibility that year-round ice may be a reality in this area in the near future. What does being the "best" mean to you? Living up to your commitments, doing so with a positive attitude and leaving the place better than you found it.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

We hope to see the expansion of ice availability in Pensacola and Mobile so that we can transition to year-round classes/training, add back Special Olympics/adaptive skating opportunities, host events and ultimately see this area become as popular for ice sports as the rest of Florida.

Answers by: Sharon Gaubert, Treasurer

HERETICS' SOCIAL CLUB

hereticssocialclub.buzzsprout.com

What inspired you to get started? What inspired the sun to rise this morning? What inspired the moon to hang in the night sky? What inspired humanity to grow and thrive? Not God and people need to know.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We want to keep exposing the ridiculous and dark parts of religion, as well as allowing a safe place for people who have been traumatized by it to share their story or be able to change the narrative to laughter. What does being the "best" mean to you? You know, we don't get a ton of feedback about what we do. We have friends and listeners who have stuck around and seem to enjoy our show, but this helps confirm for us that we are doing something good.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

We have dreams and ideas ranging from t-shirts to meetings to a visual aspect to the show to providing extra content through a subscription platform. The horizon is very wide open right now.

Answers by: Jason Leger, Saint Monsignor

ICMT MURDER

MYSTERY COMPANY

icmtheatre.com

What inspired you to get started? I wanted to create family-friendly entertainment that supported local actors and businesses in the Gulf Coast community. Partnering with local venues to bring our shows to their establishment(s) brings revenue to that business and gives local actors a place to perform.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Simply put, we love what we do. As a business owner I am blessed with talented, dedicated and kind actors who work as an ensemble beautifully. That's what motivates me. Working with people I like at great venues for great audiences.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

We put in long hours perfecting our shows and our skills; we also think about the best way to market and expand the company. We strive to make every audience member feel like they are part of our ICMT family. When that happens, we feel our best.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? ICMT's goal is always more shows in more places. We also want to diversify into other types of theatre performance—possibly expanding into nonprofit children's theatre. I'm also starting a Veterans in Arts nonprofit organization this year in association with American Legion Post 33.

Answers by: Nicole Dickson, Founder/Owner

IMPROVABLE CAUSE improvablecause.com

What inspired you to get started? Improvable Cause started as a murder mystery company more than 20 years ago. After a legendary disaster of an improv show at the old Handlebar, IC became a group of local performers who wanted to get better at the craft. Eventually in 2005, they formed what you know today.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? There's something addictive about creating something from absolutely nothing in real time. Add an audience—half cheering, half waiting for you to bomb—and the energy becomes electric. The payoff is that moment when you defy expectations and create something magical. And honestly, we're just friends who love playing together.

What does being the "best" mean to you? That our 20 years of performing means something to

our community. That audiences genuinely appreciate the chance to laugh with us. Comedy connects people in this beautiful way—through a shared understanding of what is relatable or absurd. It has this way of showing that we're more alike than different.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We would love to travel out of town to perform in a comedy festival.

Answers by: Brooke Hardy,

Co-Owner

LIFEVIEW GROUP

1221 W. Lakeview Ave., lifeviewgroup.org

What inspired you to get started? Lakeview Center was a client early in my career when I worked as a staff auditor for a local firm. I admired their mission and jumped at the chance to join the team. After 26 years, I am blessed to serve alongside an extraordinary team that still puts mission first.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? LifeView Group is a family of nonprofit companies—Lakeview Center, FamiliesFirst Network and Global Connections to Employment. We serve people during vulnerable times, including abused and neglected children, people with disabilities and those struggling with mental illness or addiction. Seeing the successes people have on their journeys is rewarding. What does being the "best" mean to you? Being dependable and trustworthy—qualities I value in both personal and professional relationships. At LifeView Group, we strive to be that trusted partner for others, offering support in times of need with reliability and compassion people can count on.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Our vision is to be the trusted partner. LifeView Group looks forward to collaborating with other agencies, nonprofits and community leaders to improve the quality of life in our region, addressing mental healthcare, job opportunities and support for families struggling to stay together. Answers by: Allison Hill, CEO

LOCAL PULSE

localpulse.com

What inspired you to get started? Producing a good-news-only news outlet is more than just a feel-good endeavor. We thought of it as a bold response to an exhausted audience. With the audience overwhelmed and tuning out, reporting good news offers hope, balance and relief. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Someone once said to me, "You will never run out of good news stories in Pensacola." Turns out, they were right. There are still so many stories to share.

What does being the "best" mean to you? By sharing good news, we give people a reason to care about where they live. I think what we are best at is inviting them to see that they can be a part of the solution. We are not ignoring problems; we focus on highlighting people who are fixing problems. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

I don't think people are tired of the news; I think they are tired of how it makes them feel. We have a long way to go before we finish sharing all the good news in Pensacola. We will continue to work to restore our neighbors' faith in humanity.

Answers by: Lisa Long, Editor in Chief

NEWSRADIO 92.3/1620

7521 Plantation Road, newsradio923.com

What inspired you to get started? NewsRadio 1620 debuted in 2007 with the goal of producing content that would serve and support our communities, providing needed and accurate information daily (and especially in times of need), while supporting our business partners with a platform to help them grow.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The mission of community service continues to keep everyone involved with NewsRadio motivated. Opportunities and challenges present themselves to our communities every day, and we remain dedicated to doing all we can to deliver quality information and entertainment—and above all, to being a reliable and trusted neighbor.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Not comparing what we do to other media outlets, but to consistently compare and improve our performance and dedication to what we did yesterday. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Our business is constantly changing, and so are the needs of the communities we serve. Our goal is simply to keep our eyes wide open and do what we can to be the best we can be in service.

Answers by: Kevin King, Operations Director at ADX Communications

PENSACOLA MESS HALL

418 E. Wright St., pensacolamesshall.org

What inspired you to get started? Sharing the joy of science discovery with the community and encouraging a broader understanding of science and its role in our lives.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We are committed to being a part of the identity of Pensacola as a place where curiosity thrives and where science is part of our culture.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Creating an experience that is joyful for all participants, where everyone learns a little something, and the experience plants memories and ideas for future discovery and curiosity. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

The MESS Hall is working on expanding to engaging more adults, to position us as a hub for community, creativity and innovation for the people driving growth here.

Answers by: Megan Pratt, Executive Director

PENSACOLA OPERA

75 S. Tarragona St., pensacolaopera.com

What inspired you to get started? In 1983, a small group of people interested in opera, including singers, parents of singers, singing teachers, professionals and business people, decided that Pensacola could mine our rich local talent to produce quality opera. The Opera has continued to grow into the professional arts organization it is today.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our community drives us. Each season we are able to reach over 50,000 people through professional opera productions, free community programming and educational initiatives. As long as our audiences continue to seek meaningful artistic experiences, we are honored to keep creating them.

What does being the "best" mean to you? We strive for artistic excellence in everything that we

do, from innovative events that bring in new audiences to producing high-quality productions. It's not about perfection—it's about storytelling with heart, engaging audiences meaningfully and constantly striving to elevate the experience of opera for everyone who walks through our doors. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

There are many things on the horizon for Pensacola Opera. From expanding our events—like Rock the Runway—and continuing to be innovative in our programming, to looking down the road at infrastructure expansion, we create art season by season with optimistic and strategic eyes toward the future of opera in Pensacola.

Answers by: Alex Hilkey, Director of Marketing and Communications

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA

EXPLORE CAMPS

11000 University Parkway, uwf.edu/explorecamps

What inspired you to get started? I was inspired to work at a STEAM summer camp, because I love seeing kids get excited about learning through hands-on projects. Watching them build, experiment and discover their own creativity reminds me why STEAM education is so important—and fun.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Seeing the confidence kids build as they solve problems, ask questions and explore new ideas. Their curiosity and energy are contagious, and every day brings a new moment of discovery that reminds me how meaningful and impactful this work truly is. What does being the "best" mean to you? Always evolving—learning from each experience, listening to feedback and continuously improving. It's about staying curious, adaptable and committed to creating the best possible experience for every camper, every time. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? This year, we launched a new field trip program, and our next goal is to expand it. We're excited to partner with more organizations, offer handson STEAM experiences beyond camp and reach even more students throughout the year with engaging, educational adventures.

Answers by: Valerie Taylor, Associate Director of Community Programs and Samantha Zook-Johnson, Camps and Community Outreach Coordinator

health + wellness

TAMARA DRISKELL, LMHC

7004 Pine Forest Road, tamaradriskell.com

What inspired you to get started? I got into this work to help people confront the gap between who they were told to be and who they actually are or actually want in life. My practice is where existential inquiry meets nervous system repair— especially around sexuality, religious trauma and redefining aliveness on their own terms. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? It's the moment posttraumatic clarity hits—and clients realize the life they're craving isn't a fantasy, it's a future they can build. When longing sharpens into language, and then into action. That ignition? That's why I do this.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Being the best is more than just reach for me; it's knowing others resonate. It means doing work so precise, so unflinching, that it changes someone's internal landscape forever. It's about

leaving a mark that outlives the moment and ripples out to families and even communities. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm building a body of work that includes books, stages and provocative public thought—but I'm also rocking midlife on my own terms. I'm getting in the best shape of my life, soaking up the Gulf Coast, feeling strong, spacious and creatively on fire.

Answers by: Tamara Driskell, Psychotherapist/Consultant

ESSENTIALLY

FIT

6707 Plantation Road, Unit A2, candacerorrer.com

What inspired you to get started? I have always had a passion for fitness and love to help others reach their goals. Now I am even more focused on helping people gain muscle to be strong and independent for as long as possible.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My mom had a stroke two years ago, and seeing how hard she has worked to get her strength back keeps me inspired. My grandaddy is 89 and is still doing all the things. I want to be able to live a full life like they are. What does being the "best" mean to you? Being voted Best of the Coast shows me that I have a lot of people that put their trust in my knowledge to help them get out of pain and get them started, no matter their current fitness level. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

I want to move into a larger space that will allow me to hold different strength training groups as well as continue one-on-one training.

Answers by: Candace Rorrer, Owner/Exercise Physiologist/Pelvic Floor Exercise Specialist

GIBSON & HEATH

FAMILY DENTISTRY

13 Center St., ghsmile.com

What inspired you to get started? I began my journey in civil engineering, but it didn't take long to realize I was meant for something more personally connected and people-focused. With the guidance of inspiring mentors and a growing passion for helping others, I discovered dentistry and never looked back. I truly love what I do.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? It's all about relationships. It's the patients, our team, the lifelong friendships we build, the families we watch grow up and the smiles we shape. We are not in the dental business serving people but rather in the people business serving dentistry.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Validation. Our team works so hard to give their all to each and every patient. The compassion they have for their patients and craft is second to none. This is for them.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Continue learning and keeping up with the ever-changing technological advances in dentistry so we can offer the best quality and experience our patients have come to expect and deserve. Personally, living in the moment; life is going too fast—take the trip and don't wish time away.

Answers by: Philip Gibson, Dentist services

A LL THINGS NIKKI

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. 28, instagram.com/allthings.nikki

What inspired you to get started? I've always had a passion for making people feel confident and beautiful. Opening my salon allowed me to

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create a welcoming space where clients feel seen, pampered and valued. I wanted to bring top-tier service with a personal touch to the Gulf Breeze community I love.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My clients. Watching them leave the salon feeling refreshed and confident reminds me why I started. I'm also driven by growth—staying inspired, learning new techniques and mentoring others keeps me passionate about what I do every single day. What does being the "best" mean to you? Consistently showing up with passion, integrity and care. It's not just about great hair—it's about building trust, creating a positive experience and making people feel their absolute best. To me, it's about heart, not hype.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Launching All Things Nikki Events. It's the first step in building a full lifestyle brand—All Things Nikki: Home, Events, Beauty and Food. I'm passionate about creating memorable experiences, and expanding into events is the natural next chapter of this dream.

Answers by: Nikki Hovanec, Owner/Stylist/Vibe Curator

AVALON APARTMENTS

8800 Pine Forest Road, avalonliving.net What inspired you to get started? I never intended to have a career in property management. As I was graduating from UWF in sports management, this career kind of fell into my lap, and I realized I really enjoyed helping people find their community.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Showing up for my team daily. My team is ultimately what makes this community run so seamlessly; I'm just the supporter. What does being the "best" mean to you? Offering top-tier customer service to our residents and guests. We may not be the newest community on the block anymore, but our goal every day is to ensure the community is clean and always welcoming.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We have a massive project coming up next year, so I'm really excited for the positive changes to come at Avalon.

Answers by: Dylan Spivey-Harris, Community Manager

BASHES & BUBBLY

bashesandbubbly.com

What inspired you to get started? In 2019, I experienced my own bachelorette as a local in Des-

tin, and there weren't any services like this in the area. I have always loved decorating and knew that this service was something our area desperately needed for guests visiting and celebrating along the Emerald Coast.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The chance to keep raising the bar for each celebration encourages us, as well as our tremendous clientele, family, colleagues and friendships we've made.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Delivering more than expected, every single time. We obsess over the smallest details and aim to set a high standard for decor, with whiteglove service, so that it becomes the conversation piece for our clients' gatherings and makes their planning easier throughout the journey. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We are working toward expanding our team, purchasing our own van and continuing to learn and grow toward being better at our craft every single day.

Answers by: Savannah Tims, CEO/Founder

BLUSHING BALLOONS

blusheventsco.com

What inspired you to get started? Everyone deserves to be celebrated. My mom always went all out for my birthdays, and I love doing the same for others. Five years into the business, and it never gets old. So thankful for friends who pushed me to start this little business.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Client reactions fuel me—seeing joy on their faces never gets old. I also want to show my girls that you can build something magical with passion, hard work and a bit of sparkle.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It's about creating meaningful moments, not just pretty setups. Exceeding expectations, making people feel celebrated and putting heart into every detail—no matter the size of the event. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Expanding Blushing Balloons is always a goal when the time is right.

Answers by: Chelsi Canan, Owner

BODYWORKS OF PERDIDO KEY 12385 Sorrento Road, Ste. D1, bodyworksofperdido.com

What inspired you to get started? Helping people feel cared for. I wanted my daughter to know that with heart and hard work, you can build something beautiful. A place that offers comfort, healing and care. That's what I set out to create, and what I'm still grateful to share.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My team and the people we care for in our community. We have created a space where everyone feels seen, heard and cared for.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Showing up with care, intention and professionalism in everything we do. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? My daughter starts high school this year, and I'm so excited for her. It feels like a big season for both of us. At Bodyworks, I'm focused on growing with my deeply caring and talented team, and continuing to create something meaningful for our guests, our community and ourselves.

Answers by: Cindy Rodriguez, Founder

CONNA O'DONOVAN REAL ESTATE

913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. 38, pensacolahomelistings.com

What inspired you to get started? I've been in the "people services" business since I was a child helping my parents with their assisted living facilities, visiting residents and later working as an event planner. My love of helping people evolved into real estate when I was 19—I became a realtor and dove in heart and soul.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My wonderful clients. It's a great feeling to be trusted and relied upon. I could have never done it without them. And success … the more success I achieve, the more I want to achieve success.

What does being the "best" mean to you? To me, the best realtor is someone who truly cares about their clients, combining experience, market expertise and the ability to help with just about anything. They're a strong communicator, skilled negotiator and dedicated to exceptional service. Most importantly, they listen and protect their reputation by always putting clients first. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Focused on growing my business and training my agents to be rockstars—while building the CORE brand. Dedicated to giving back to the community and staying actively involved with industry changes, contracts and the evolving real estate market.

Answers by: Conna O'Donovan, Realtor/Owner

CORDOVA SKIN & BODY

5043 Bayou Blvd., cordovaskin.com

What inspired you to get started? There are nine of us that work at the spa. We were all to -

gether at a larger spa for over a decade, and we now enjoy a more intimate, personalized setting. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Small businesses are what makes a town special. We love being part of the heart and feeling of Pensacola charm. What does being the "best" mean to you?

Genuinely caring about your clients. Taking the time to get to know what each one needs and tailoring the service to fit those specific needs. Staying up to date and studying our craft, and having a great work atmosphere that shines through is also important to us.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We have been open two years now and are always adding new services. Machines can do a lot, but nothing will ever replace human touch, and our massage therapists and estheticians are such giving people. We plan to do more community outreach, and we hope to take a trip as a team.

Answers by: Jennifer Walden, Owner

DRAGONCAT TATTOO

417 N. DeVilliers St., instagram.com/dragoncattattoo

What inspired you to get started? We all really like working together, and we didn't want a nonparticipatory boss telling us what to do anymore. So, we adjusted our business model to put everyone at the shop on an even level.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We take pride in doing the best tattoos we can do, making the shop highly decorative and providing a pleasant ambiance all around. Tattoos hurt more with bad music and bare walls. Church it up, y'all.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Making sure that the customers we're working on love their tattoos, and have a good time in the meanwhile. Also, it means covering every square inch of space in the shop with art.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? There's talk of a newly structured parking lot, and we kinda want to glue down our rocks. Other than that, we still want that koi pond and screened-in gazebo nestled in the trees. Putt putt? A bio shed for processing steel tubes? More murals?

Answers by: Shauncey Fury, One of Us

EMERALD COAST IV HYDRATION & WELLNESS

emeraldcoasthydration.com

What inspired you to get started? I started this business after my own recovery from surgery, when I realized how hard it was to access care

without leaving home. There were no mobile IV options in the area, so I created one to offer convenient, compassionate support to others who need healing where they are.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The impact we see every day—helping people feel better, faster, in the comfort of their own homes. Knowing we're making recovery and wellness more accessible and personal is what continues to drive our passion and purpose.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Earning trust through consistent, compassionate care. It's not just about great service; it's about showing up, listening and making each client feel seen, safe and supported. We aim to go beyond expectations every time, because true quality is felt, not just claimed.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Our next goal is to expand beyond Pensacola and bring our mobile IV services to Destin and 30A. We've seen how much this care can impact lives, and we're excited to reach more people and make wellness more accessible across the Gulf Coast, one home visit at a time.

Answers

by:

Trey Rumley, MSN/RN, Owner

EVANS AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE CENTER

11225 Lillian Highway, evansautopensacola.com

What inspired you to get started? I never planned on being a mechanic. I left engineering school to help my uncle at Evans Automotive for a summer; 19 years later, I'm an owner. I love this industry, providing for my team and their families and serving my community through the work we do every day.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The joy of giving back: sponsoring youth sports, supporting local charities and creating a great workplace. I love providing training, growth and more time off for my team. We work hard, play hard and take extreme pride in the quality of work we deliver every day.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Never cutting corners—doing the job right every time, no exceptions. It's about continuous improvement, taking care of our customers like family and holding ourselves to the highest standards so our work speaks for itself.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

We're landlocked, so my focus is on maximizing efficiency with added lifts and better processes and procedures for the team. Long term, I'd love to expand our culture and what we've built here by opening another location down the road when the time is right.

Answers by:

Mike Gorton, Owner/Operator

GILDED PENSACOLA

instagram.com/gilded.pensacola

What inspired you to get started? I was at a crossroads in my life and unsure of what to do, but I knew I needed to be able to explore my creative side. I had also recently started enjoying getting my nails done and always wanted to try crazy designs, so I thought, "Why not give it a go?"

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I love my relationships with my clients. They really are all my friends—honestly, they are like family. And also, each set becomes my new favorite.

What does being the "best" mean to you? I want every client to leave feeling better than when they walked in and like it was money and time well spent.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Oh, I'm always dreaming up my next move … you really never know.

Answers by: Savannah Locklin, AKA Gilded

GULF WINDS CREDIT UNION

220 E. Nine Mile Road, gogulfwinds.com

What inspired you to get started? Back in 1954, starting with just a few employees, we began helping members with their financial goals. Inspired by the cooperative spirit of "people helping people," these individuals came together to empower each other through affordable financial solutions and caring, personal service.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Today, we're still motivated by the spirit of "people helping people" and driven by our mission of helping our members and communities succeed financially. We love that our members forge strong connections with us and allow our team to provide meaningful, personalized service.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Living out our core values of integrity, care, growth and innovation every day. These values drive how we support our members and community. Each of our members has their own path in life, and we are here to create lasting relationships that meet people where they are.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

ment and innovative banking solutions. We are focused on delivering real value with services that simplify banking and products that meet real needs, such as business lending. We're poised to deepen our community efforts and continue to support our vibrant region.

Answers by:

Pola Young, Director of Community Engagement

HAIRY ALEX HORNE SALON

2590 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 508, instagram.com/hairyalexhorne

What inspired you to get started? The educators, other salon owners, stylists and clients I've met along the way are what inspired me to dive into entrepreneurship after five years of being in the industry. Now I am four years into owning a business, and I can confirm it was a great choice.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The ongoing goal of keeping my clients' trust by delivering healthy hair and staying active with up-to-date education while also drawing in new clientele who want to collaborate on their hair with someone like me.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Being successful. My favorite part about that is that success is subjective. My personal definition of success and what it feels like is constantly evolving and I love that.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

To keep surviving this current hellscape while staying an active ally to those who need it most right now.

Answers by: Alex Horne Garcia, Stylist/Owner

Our future is full of growth, community involve -

AMBER JERNIGAN WITH KELLER WILLIAMS

amberjhomes.com

What inspired you to get started? I had a particularly horrible experience with a realtor when I bought my first home in the early 2000s. There was no representation, and I got screwed. So, I decided I would become a realtor and committed myself to never letting anyone get taken advantage of on my watch.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Knowing I'm building a legacy—not just a business. I want my daughters to see what's possible when you lead with heart, hustle and boldness. I'm driven to keep growing, evolving and helping others rise with me. What does being the "best" mean to you? Showing up with integrity, consistency and authenticity, no matter who's watching. It's not just about numbers or awards; it's about delivering real results, staying true to your values and raising the bar for everyone around you.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm looking at expanding into coaching and mentoring agents and leaning into real estate and realtor life content creation as well.

Answers by: Amber Jernigan, Your Real Estate Bestie

KELSEI FRAZIER PHOTOGRAPHY facebook.com/photographybykelseifrazier

What inspired you to get started? My family. I never want to forget a moment in our lives. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The families I encounter. The forever relationships we form. Knowing I'll get to watch their families grow means the world to me. What does being the "best" mean to you? The word "best" is subjective. I don't feel like I'm the best. But to know our community considers me one of the best is something I'll never take for granted.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We are building our house as we speak, and I am so excited to keep working toward building my studio on our eight acres.

Answers by: Kelsei Frazier, Photographer

KUHN REALTY

1718 N. Ninth Ave., kuhnrealty.com

What inspired you to get started? My family has always been so supportive, and I know making them proud will always be the start of inspiration for me. I've also been lucky to have clients who pushed me to do things on my own, specifically Dana and Lisa Foster and Sonny Kapur. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I have witnessed so many wonderful changes to our city in such a short time, and it's exciting to envision many more to come. I want to continue to help make this community the best place to live, work and play for my family and friends.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Simply being recognized for the time and effort I strive to put into every transaction I have with others, whether it's business or any other community connection.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

I have a daughter starting kindergarten, so I know that will be a new and fun adventure. Professionally, I look forward to helping our downtown continue to grow and thrive.

Answers by: Larry Kuhn, Owner/Broker

LIGHT BRIGHT EVENTS

lightbrightevents.com

What inspired you to get started? Bringing joy, creativity and unforgettable moments to celebrations. After years of planning events and sharing special moments online, I saw the magic marquee lights add and knew I had to share that magic with others in a fun, bold and beachy way. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Seeing the joy our marquee lights bring to people's most special moments. Every smile, photo and celebration reminds me why I started: creating unforgettable memories and spreading light in every season of life. It's more than decor; it's making people feel seen, celebrated and loved.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Leading with creativity, consistency and care. It's about delivering standout service, making every event unforgettable and being the name people trust to light up their biggest moments. While representing our coastal community with pride, professionalism and a whole lot of heart.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Expanding Light Bright Events with new inventory, bigger installs and partnerships across the Gulf Coast. I'm focused on growth that stays rooted in joy, creativity and creating unforgettable moments for every client we serve.

Answers by: Ashley Ranow, Owner

GABRIELLE MONTOYA-FRIAS

WITH LOXX BY NATALIE & CO.

1308 W. Nine Mile Road, Ste. 4, hairextensionsbygabby.com

What inspired you to get started? My love for hair and beauty is what pushed me to get started in this industry. That love has grown over time and pushed me to keep going.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I find joy in making others happy. Seeing how excited my clients get when they come to see me and making them happy is what motivates me to keep going.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Just being the best version of myself. Pushing myself to give excellent results to all of my clients and make them happy, while keeping a good attitude and love for what I do.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To eventually expand and open my own salon. It's always been a dream of mine to run my own salon, and I see that coming in the near future.

Answers by: Gabrielle Montoya-Frias

OLLI+IZZIE STYLE HOUSE

1565 Nantahala Beach Road, instagram.com/olliandizzie

What inspired you to get started? I loved the idea of a relaxed environment where we could love where we work and love the people we work with, while still being able to make a good living.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The girls I work with, our wonderful clients and loving what I do. Even on the hard days, it's always worth it. Making the Best of the Coast doesn't hurt either.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Happy clients that fully trust us to make them feel gorgeous and who are able to relax and enjoy themselves. Because let's be honest, we wouldn't be on this list without them.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Professionally, to find the perfect person with the right vibes to fill our last chair. I've been pretty picky, but it's worth it because I love our little salon family. Personally, it's to finally take some Saturdays off.

Answers by: Shannon

Pope, Owner

PAINTED BOHEMIAN

5660 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. A4, paintedbohemain.square.site

What inspired you to get started? I wanted to create a salon that felt like home, where clients feel seen, heard and confident. I wanted a space rooted in passion, creativity and real connection.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Seeing the impact I have on clients—how they light up after a visit—keeps me going. I stay motivated by growth, creativity and showing my daughter what's possible with passion and grit.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Staying true to who I am while constantly evolving. It's not about perfection; it's about creating a space where people feel valued. It means leading with heart, lifting others up and setting a standard that reflects a love for what I do.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Personally, I'm soaking in this new season of love and planning a wedding after getting engaged to my high school sweetheart. Professionally, I'm focused on expanding my brand beyond the chair— a brand rooted in passion and purpose.

Answers by: Taylor, Owner

PINE MEADOW VETERINARY CLINIC

610 W. Nine Mile Road, pinemeadowvetclinic.com

What inspired you to get started? Passion for animals and providing quality patient care. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Pine Meadow has really made a name for itself. Being the oldest practice in town, it's almost like a pillar for the community.

What does being the "best" mean to you? To be a trusted and compassionate veterinary practice. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Add another associate to the practice in 2026.

Answers by: Jenafer Pulmano, Practice Manager

RIPTIDE MEDIA riptidemedia.net

What inspired you to get started? We launched in 2020 during the height of Covid, driven by a desire to help local real estate agents elevate their marketing when in-person showings were limited. Our mission was to create high quality visual storytelling that moved properties—and people—forward.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The impact our work has on our clients' success. Helping agents win listings, grow their brands and stand out in a competitive market keeps us striving for better with every shoot.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Showing up with consistency, creativity and integrity. It's about going beyond expectations—delivering on time, treating each project like it matters and staying rooted in service.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We're expanding our video and branding services to help clients tell their stories beyond listings. Personally, we're focused on building a team culture that supports creativity, growth and work-life balance.

Answers by:

Jimmy Warr, Founder/ Creative Director

KIRA SANTOS WITH LEVIN RINKE REALTY

220 W. Garden St., kira.levinrinkerealty.com

What inspired you to get started? I got into real estate after poor experiences with agents who lacked knowledge and care. I knew I could do better. I lead with empathy, constantly learning and going above and beyond for every client. Helping people isn't just part of the job; it's the heart of what I do.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The fulfillment of having a successful career while still being present for my family. That balance means everything to me. Knowing I'm making a real difference in people's lives, all while being there for my kids, is what motivates me every single day.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Putting people first, truly caring, staying knowledgeable and guiding clients through one of life's biggest decisions with empathy and integrity. It's about showing up, going above and beyond and being someone my clients trust completely—not just for one sale, but for a lifetime.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

To build a team of like-minded agents who lead with integrity, empathy and a strong work ethic. I want to mentor others to do things the right way: putting people first, staying informed and delivering the level of care and service every client truly deserves.

Answers by: Kira Santos, Real Estate Agent

SKIN BY FLYNN

2590 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 404, skinbyflynn.com

What inspired you to get started? I've always been into wellness and self-care—especially finding small moments in a busy day to feel your best. After my own skin struggles, I wanted to create more than just an in-and-out service. My goal is to give clients real results and a chance to fully reset their nervous system.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The connection with my clients and community. Skincare can be overwhelming, and I love simplifying it for others. I enjoy customizing routines for all budgets and helping others feel confident in their skin through real, lasting results and genuine care.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It isn't about titles; it's about trust. It means showing up consistently, giving each client a personalized experience and helping them feel seen, supported and confident in their skin. It's about impact, not perfection—and creating results that go deeper than the surface.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm currently studying to become an Integrative Health Practitioner. Many of my clients struggle with skin issues rooted in hormone and gut imbalances, so my next chapter includes offering

lab testing and personalized wellness plans to help uncover and address the root cause—going beyond the surface for lasting skin health.

Answers by: Molly Flynn, Owner

SVN SOUTHLAND COMMERCIAL

186 N. Palafox St., southlandcommercial.com

What inspired you to get started? The transformative impact real estate could have on communities. Starting out, I saw an opportunity to reshape spaces and create lasting value, which ignited my passion for commercial real estate. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Continuing to innovate and make meaningful contributions to the industry drives me. Each project presents new challenges and opportunities to exceed expectations, which fosters growth and creates positive outcomes for clients and the community. What does being the "best" mean to you? Delivering exceptional results consistently, maintaining integrity in every transaction and earning the trust and respect of clients and peers alike. It's about setting high standards and exceeding them with every endeavor. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Professionally, the redevelopment of the Palafox House on Palafox and Gregory streets. Personally, nurturing mentorship roles and helping others better understand the importance of investing.

Answers by: Michael Carro, CCIM Panhandle District President/Managing Partner

VANESSA MYERS HAIR

instagram.com/vanessamyershair

What inspired you to get started? I've always loved playing with hair and making people feel good. I wanted a career that let me be creative, connect with others and still have time for my family. Once I realized I could turn that into a real job, I never looked back. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The relationships I've built behind the chair. My clients become friends, and helping them feel confident is the best part of my day. I also love how much the industry keeps changing. It keeps me inspired to grow and keep learning.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Being consistent, kind and always willing to learn. It's not about being perfect; it's about showing up, taking care of your clients and doing your best work with love. I just want to keep leveling up while staying grounded.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

I'm working on building more of an online presence, sharing affirmations, tips and real talk for hairstylists. I want to create content that helps others feel seen and supported. Personally, I'm focusing on balance, more peace, more purpose and more time with my people.

Answers by:

Vanessa Myers, Master Colorist

THE WALLACE COMPANY

3607 Andrew Ave., thewallacecompany.com

What inspired you to get started? Over 50 years ago, I started a small business to meet the unmet demand for irrigation services. My passion for the outdoors led me to expand into landscaping. Today, we are a full-service landscaping company, offering irrigation, landscape design and installation, lawn maintenance and lighting services.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our customers. We are incredibly grateful for their continued loyalty and trust in us to service all of their landscaping needs. We are proud to share that word of mouth has led to many new customers. We will continue to give the best possible service to our residential and commercial customers.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Delivering high-quality results that go beyond our customers' expectations. We believe our reliability, attention to detail and strong reputation are what have kept us in business for 53 years. Through this dedication, we have built many lasting customer relationships, and there is nothing more rewarding.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We are committed to inspiring the next generation, ensuring their success. Our employees take immense pride in the details of their work—especially seeing the finished results. We now have over 100 employees, and we could not be where we are today without them.

Answers by: Vic Wallace, President and Cindy Mills, General Manager

ZARZAUR LAW P.A.

100 S. Palafox St., zarzaurlaw.com

What inspired you to get started? Law was never just a job. It was a calling. I started in criminal defense, but I knew I wanted more than to defend. I wanted to fight for those without a voice, take on powerful systems and create real change for victims and the safety of communities we serve.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The responsibility. People come to us at their worst moments and trust us to make it right. That trust pushes me. Winning is not just about the verdict. It is about restoring someone's life and their dignity. That drive is what fuels me every day.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Being the best in this business is about jury verdicts. I have them, most do not. This paper suggests the best is whoever gets the most votes. We appreciate being included, but real recognition comes from results. A $50 million verdict last month says more than any vote ever would. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? To keep pushing the firm to set the standard in serious injury law, not just in results but in how we treat people. I am focused on staying sharp, growing as a trial lawyer, mentoring the next generation and never getting comfortable.

Answers by: Joe Zarzaur, Attorney/ Founder/Owner

weddings

ANYDAYDJ anydaydj.com

What inspired you to get started? I believe every event deserves unforgettable energy. Music brings people together, and I wanted me or my team to be the one behind the moments they'll never forget.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? It's the energy. The connection. The joy. Being trusted to bring a once-in-alifetime vibe to someone's celebration is what fuels me every time.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Showing up prepared, reading the crowd and mak-

ing sure the client never has to worry about the vibe. It's about trust, timing and making memories. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We took a little time off, zoomed out and came back with fresh vision. Some exciting moves are on the horizon; watch this space.

Answers by:

Ramsey Coates, CEO

BETTY WEBER CAKES

facebook.com/bettywebercakes

What inspired you to get started? Love for creating beautiful edible art. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The happy faces and smiles I receive from my customers, and their continuous support.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It means everything. It's positive reinforcement that I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I love what I do, and I will continue; even though I have cut back a little bit, my love for learning and creating has never been stronger.

Answers by: Betty Weber,

Owner

FETE + FLORA EVENTS

fetefloraevents.com

What inspired you to get started? We love a good party, and your wedding should be the best one you ever throw. From stunning florals to unforgettable ambiance, it's all about celebrating love surrounded by the people who matter most. Who wouldn't want to be a part of that? Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Over the years, we've had the

privilege of meeting some truly amazing people. Their trust and openness have allowed us to explore new ideas and create weddings that weren't just dreams for them, but for us as well. What does being the "best" mean to you? We have the privilege of working alongside so many talented professionals in the wedding industry. It's a genuine honor to be mentioned among such highly respected and inspiring colleagues. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

We're thrilled to introduce Curio—our new service for elevated tabletop rentals. Curio was created to bridge the gap between ordinary table settings and refined design, offering thoughtfully curated plates, glassware and flatware that complete the overall look and feel of your event.

Answers by: Rebekah, Lead Planner and Jennifer, Lead Floral Designer

FLORALS BY MALLORI

instagram.com/floralsbymallori

What inspired you to get started? The nature of flowers' life cycles, and how they mirror our own as humans. I love that we use them to celebrate, mourn and show the people around us that we care. It was easy to fall in love with flowers. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The community that surrounds me. I am so inspired by my fellow florists in our area, as well as all over the world, continuing to create art for people's important moments regardless of the state of the world. What does being the "best" mean to you? That I am incredibly blessed—by my couples (clients), my community and loved ones. I feel so honored to create beauty for my people.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

To challenge myself design-wise. I want to make the designs that are in my head but feel too daunting or funky to present to a couple. Art is meant to be shared.

Answers by: Mallori Carmack, Owner/Lead Designer

JD COBB FILMS

jdcobbfilms.com

What inspired you to get started? Storytelling has always been a part of my DNA. I've always been drawn to this idea of nostalgia and my favorite memories with my family. That passion grew into making wedding films and capturing moments that tell real stories of a couple's favorite day.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Every couple's story is different, and I'm obsessed with telling their story in a way that accurately reflects them. Because we don't make cookie-cutter films, we watch and listen for the moments throughout the day that they're not aware of, telling an intentional story that they'll love.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Creating a wedding video that can be re-lived decades after the wedding is over. If I can make couples experience those same emotions all over again from their wedding day years later, that would make me feel like "the best."

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm expanding my creative approach and leaning into the idea of "nostalgic storytelling" in all of my projects. I want to capture more fami -

lies in various stages of life after the wedding, with their children, siblings, etc. Capturing more memories as they happen in life.

Answers by: JD Cobb, Owner

KENDRA K BEAUTY

kendrakbeauty.com

What inspired you to get started? I've always been passionate about enhancing confidence through beauty. Seeing brides light up when they feel their most beautiful inspired me to create a luxury experience tailored just for them. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The incredible women on my team and the unforgettable moments we create for our brides. Their talent, dedication and growth inspire me daily to keep elevating our craft and delivering the luxury experience our clients deserve on their most meaningful days. What does being the "best" mean to you?

Delivering more than just beautiful hair and makeup; it's about creating an unforgettable, seamless experience. It's showing up with excellence, professionalism and heart, making every bride feel seen, cared for and absolutely radiant. It's setting the standard and inspiring others through our artistry and service. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Expanding Kendra K Beauty's presence internationally, offering our luxury bridal experience to more destination weddings. Personally, I'm focused on continued growth as an artist and leader—mentoring my team, refining our brand and creating elevated, trend-savvy content that inspires both our clients and the beauty industry.

Answers by: Kendra K, Founder

LIVE OAK PENSACOLA

7874 Beulah Road, liveoakplantation.com

What inspired you to get started? In 2015, couples were dreaming of a romantic and beautiful outdoor wedding. With a shortage of venues with a built-in backup plan, Live Oak had the best of both worlds—the beauty of an outdoor wedding with a gorgeous indoor reception space. This put us on the map.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Challenges motivate me to push forward and reach goals, never allowing obstacles to deter me. I believe in leading by example to inspire those around me—and it's making a real impact. My team is dedicated, hardworking and united by our shared mission to make every event flawless, stress-free and beautiful.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Exceeding expectations through heartfelt service, attention to detail and genuine care. We treat every event like family, ensuring couples and guests feel valued. Success isn't about size or price—it's about trust, love and creating unforgettable memories that couples cherish as the best day of their lives.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

The dense shade from our majestic ancient Live Oaks makes it a challenge to keep the expansive lawn lush and green. Each season, we take on the big task of removing and re-sodding the entire venue between events to keep it looking thick, vibrant and beautiful. That project is up next.

Answers by: Donna Meeks, Owner

MYKA ABIGAIL HAIR ARTIST

6895 N. Ninth Ave., facebook.com/hairworthmentioning

What inspired you to get started? As long as I can remember, I loved doing hair. Growing up, I was always the friend who volunteered to do everyone else's. My mom was also a stylist, so I grew up seeing her in the salon. It has been such a full circle moment.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? My son keeps me going on the easy days and the hard days. As a mom, it's always a goal to give your child what you didn't have. My clients have also been with me through thick and thin. I would not be who I am without them.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Doing the little things. There are a lot of small details that can be overlooked, but to stand out you need to notice it all. From the client experience to creating that perfect updo, the details matter. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

My five-year goal is to be able to build an athome salon that creates comfort and versatility. A place where I can be present at the salon as well as in my home.

Answers by: Myka Chambers, Stylist

SHARP AND THE SWANN

801 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. A, sharpandtheswann.com

What inspired you to get started? We stepped into the wedding industry to provide our clients with their dream hair—because who else would they want styling their hair on such an important day?

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Being able to offer this service to marriers who might not be our clients be -

hind the chair is important to us, because everyone should feel their best on their wedding day. What does being the "best" mean to you? Being the best is just simply not true. What we live by in our careers is being our best. If we can do our best for our clients, then that is a success in our minds.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

To continue taking educational wedding hair classes so we can stay on top of the upcoming styling trends.

Answers by: Chelsey Swann and Whitney Sharp, Owners

SOUTHERN FRILLS WEDDINGS & EVENTS

1300 W. Garden St., southernfrillsevents.com

What inspired you to get started? I was naturally pulled toward the wedding industry after planning my own wedding. The creativity and unique elements that you get to design to surprise and delight your guests were always a draw. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Working with my clients and helping them create lasting memories truly feeds my soul.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Being someone who continues to push the boundaries and continues to do and be better every time, while continuing to learn at each step. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Professionally, I am looking at ways to expand our services to more regional markets for new challenges. Personally, I am focused on a healthier version of myself and on self-care.

Answers by: Kelly Rhodes, Owner/ Lead Designer

SUPPOSEY

101 S. F St., supposey.com

What inspired you to get started? My mother Sandra is a big part of this business. She created the name Supposey and was instrumental in the formation of the company in 2011. She loved flowers and family, so she enjoyed helping me with weddings. She was kind, creative and driven. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Client experience gives us great joy. Seeing the joy radiate from our couples' faces makes everything worth it. Pensacola is such a wonderful city, and seeing so many small businesses thrive only deepens our love for providing a beautiful and easy wedding experience for our couples.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

It is an honor to be recognized by our community of peers and our amazing customers. Being the best is an award that we do not take lightly, and it means leading your category in a pursuit of greatness.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

A brand new location is on the horizon. We are excited to share all of the beautiful details soon.

Answers by: Chloe Sexton, Owner/Founder

WEDDINGWALLS

6434 Open Rose Drive, weddingwalls.com

What inspired you to get started? A love of celebrations, and seeing how much of an impact a thoughtfully designed backdrop (and all the surroundings) can have on the atmosphere, photos and overall guest experience of a wedding or event. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Love stories and

milestones we get to be a part of. Every event is unique, and being trusted to help set the scene for some of life's special moments is an incredible honor.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Never losing sight of why we started—bringing joy and meaning to occasions that mean so much to our clients. It's not just business; it's personal. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

First on the list is to find balance between continually building a growing business and staying rooted in the joy of why it began—to serve others, create beauty and celebrate life.

Answers by: Tracy and Steve Lastinger, Owners/Event Designers

retail A LEUMA

facebook.com/aleuma.nation

What inspired you to get started? My grandmother passed away in June of 2023. After her funeral, I took several of her flowers home to preserve. By doing that, I learned the process of cyanotype—a photographic printing process. I use her flowers daily in my business, keeping a piece of her with me.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Jesus. He gave me the strength to get through a very difficult time in my life, and gave me the opportunity to turn heartbreak into healing. Through this business, I have been able to find joy in the literal weeds that surround me.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Making a difference in someone's life through what you've been given. It means that you are able to give back and serve. It means you find joy

in where you are, not discontentment in where you wish you were.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Right now, I create everything by hand. I'm currently working on designing my own overalls— fully customized and manufactured for Aleuma. Once the manufacturing comes together, I would love to partner with the Blue Angels, Savannah Bananas and others to bring their fans something totally new.

Answers by: Angelica, Owner

ALL ABOUT ANTIQUES

3940 W. Navy Blvd., facebook.com/allaboutantiquespensacola

What inspired you to get started? The love of history and antiques, and being able to keep those alive.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The happiness and gratitude our customers feel when they've found that special piece.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It means we have understood the assignment. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

To continue providing our customers with beautiful and unique antiques at great prices.

Answers by: Paula McCutcheon, Owner

BLUE HOUSE CURIO

facebook.com/bluehousecurio

What inspired you to get started? My love to create as a form of therapy. This business bloomed during the pandemic and was a way for me to express myself in such a dark and scary time.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our diverse set of clients. Each market, project and interaction helps us level up. We absolutely love what we get to do and couldn't be where we are without the help of you all.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Striving to do better each and every single day. To not only be good at what you're doing but to be the most ethical, thoughtful, thorough and skilled.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

The Blue House is growing. We have a baby on the way, and she is expected mid-August. She will be our best collaboration yet. Our goal is to teach her to be as creative, inclusive and loving as possible.

Answers by: Erin Clancy, Maker/Owner

THE

CRAFTED MAKERIE thecraftedmakerie.com

What inspired you to get started? I was teaching kindergarten when I discovered polymer clay as a creative outlet and started making earrings. It quickly grew from a hobby to a business that combined my love for art and people.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Customer feedback. When someone tells me TCM earrings are their favorite or they're excited that they found earrings that don't irritate their ears, it reminds me why I do this. I love creating wearable art that helps women feel confident and seen.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

To me, being the best means staying true to my values: original design, quality craftsmanship and genuine connection. It's not about perfec-

tion, it's about making products that people truly love and trust.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Professionally, I'm expanding into new stores and growing my wholesale reach. Personally, I'm focusing on creating space for rest and creativity—trying to find the balance between hustle and harmony.

Answers by: Kelsey, Earring Designer

ERIKA CERAMICS

erikaceramics.co

What inspired you to get started? I came to pottery after years away from art. What began as a creative outlet gradually grew into a passion and eventually a small business rooted in craft, connection and intention.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Pottery keeps me connected. Rooted in the people who use my work, in the community I create alongside and to the ongoing process of learning. There's something deeply meaningful about sharing what you love and seeing it resonate with others in a lasting way. What does being the "best" mean to you? For me, it isn't about perfection. It's about creating with care, honoring the process and building genuine connections through your work. I'm honored to be part of a community that supports and celebrates the art of making by hand.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'm expanding my kitchenware collection with new functional designs; keep an eye out this fall. I've been partnering with local businesses to bring workshops into the community and hope to do

more. It's been a fun way to share pottery in an approachable, hands-on setting.

Answers by: Erika Young, Ceramic Artist

OPEN BOOKS

1040 N. Guillemard St., openbookspcola.org

What inspired you to get started? The bookstore came from the Prison Book Project. We had been doing Prison Books for about seven years out of the back of Subterranean Books. When Subterranean Books closed, we needed a bookstore to receive letters, as per state regulations. That's actually our original inspiration. Also, we wanted a bookstore.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? That's a big question, because it's complex. First, every letter we get from a prisoner who writes about how much our program has changed their lives, that keeps us going. So do all the customers who come in and are marveled that a bookstore like ours exists in Pensacola.

What does being the "best" mean to you? I just read this article about busting the "genius myth." I'll substitute "genius" for "best" here, and I tend to agree with the author. Being the best really means a combination of luck, tenacity, hard work and working with the right people. I feel that combination has made us successful.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Professionally, for the bookstore, our goal is really to keep doing what we're doing. All of our growth has been organic, and accomplishments have come from the hard work and support of amazing volunteers and customers. Since 2007, we've just kept trying. Keep doing what we're doing, I guess.

Answers by: Scott Satterwhite, Co-Founder

THE TECH HANDYMAN

6224 N. Ninth Ave., techhandymanfl.com

What inspired you to get started? We started repairing phones in 2011 after realizing they break easily and almost no one offered reasonably priced services.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? We love our customers. Not only do they keep coming back, but they tell everyone about us. We love when customers are so happy leaving after coming to us at first with their problems.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Giving it 100% as much as we can. Keeping our customers satisfied. Being consistent and communicative.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We love watching Pensacola grow and expand. While we have definitely thought of expanding locations, I am content running this one at 100% capacity. Personally, I love watching my kids grow and learn and I love guiding them to become magical humans.

Answers by: Ryan Galvan, Owner

restaurants + food

ANGELENA'S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

101 E. Intendencia St., angelenaspensacola.com

What inspired you to get started? Opening Angelena's was an incredible opportunity. We wanted to bring a new concept to Pensacola, honoring traditional Italian flavors while showcasing the creativity and talent of our culinary team. We are all about offering a warm, vibrant experience where great food, wine and service come together.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The excitement of sharing the Angelena's experience with our community.

Seeing guests connect over great food and wine, and watching our team continually innovate and grow motivates us every day. It's about keeping the experience fresh and memorable each and every day.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Our team takes great pride in giving our guests a great experience each and every time they choose to dine with us. We are proud to be considered one of the best in Pensacola.

Answers by: Maria Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events at Great Southern Restaurants

AUNT KATIE'S

3102 E. Cervantes St., auntkatiesbreakfastnlunch.com

What inspired you to get started? My husband. I love creating and serving meals that people love. Our family has had a huge impact on many of our recipes as they were willing to share with us their special ingredients. We truly believe that the restaurant business, although at times exhausting, is who we are.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The love, support and real feedback that we receive from family, friends and guests motivates us to continue our adventure. Each day, we try to do better than the day before.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It means we surpassed expectations. We excelled and were recognized for the effort. We will continue to strive for this in everything we do. We

know we won't always meet it, but we will continue to try each and every day.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

We have reached last year's goal by moving to a larger location in hopes of being able to create our meals for more guests. This year, we are going to concentrate on building up our team and with their help, continuing our success.

Answers by: Aunt Katie, Co-Owner

THE FISH HOUSE

600 S. Barracks St., fishhousepensacola.com

What inspired you to get started? We have always had a deep connection to our community— the people, traditions and our coastal heritage. We wanted to create more than just a restaurant. We envisioned a gathering place where everyone—locals and visitors alike—could come together to enjoy fresh Gulf seafood, good company and our beautiful waterfront.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The community. Seeing generations of families gather here, celebrating milestones or just enjoying a night out—that's why we first started. It's about continuing to serve great food, support our local culture and give people a place to connect.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Being known as one of the best in Pensacola is an honor. It means we're trusted to showcase the flavors of the Gulf with quality, consistency and care. It's about great food and creating memorable experiences that reflect the heart of our city.

Answers by: Maria Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events at Great Southern Restaurants

We are a family owned and operated Saucery, born on the Gulf Coast, producing small batch craft sauces in Pensacola, FL.

HOT SPOT BARBECUE

901 E. La Rua St. and 2541 Gulf Breeze Parkway (Truxtop Food Court), hotspotbarbecue.com

What inspired you to get started? Inspired by the Lord, Hot Spot Barbecue opened in June 2013 with the goal to serve the very best Southern style barbecue. Table service with friendly servers. Easy take-out.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Staying on top. We have been on this best list starting with the very first summer that we were open in 2013. The desire to satisfy our guests and have them respond positively has always been and still is our motivation.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Barbecue has continued to be very popular all over the U.S. Being on this and many other customer-driven lists means that we are succeeding in our goals, too.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Keeping our menu fresh while staying true to Sou-thern barbecue, we recently added loaded baked potatoes, slushies and frozen cocktails. We are still working on a food truck location north of I-10.

Answers by: James Hlubek, General Manager

ITSA COOKIE

itsacookiebakery.com

What inspired you to get started? Initially, a love for cookies and a curiosity to explore bold, surprising flavor combinations that people wouldn't expect but would enjoy.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The ongoing support from the community and the opportunity to celebrate music through my baking inspires me to keep creating and sharing.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Having the support of a community that believes in what I do. It's about creating something people feel excited to be part of—something they want to share, celebrate and return to. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I'll be at Fest in Gainesville in October and back home for Night Moves Fest in November. I'm excited to share Pensacola's vibrant music community at these music festivals through my band-inspired cookies.

Answers by: Katie Kralick, Owner

J'S BAKERY AND CATERING

2014 N. 12th Ave. and 1124 W. Garden St., jsbakeryandcatering.com

What inspired you to get started? Almost 10 years ago, we were given the unique opportunity to save a landmark in the East Hill neighborhood. Open since 1946, J's has always been important to our family, as well as Pensacola, so we couldn't say no.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Throughout the years, J's has remained an "old-fashioned" bakery that many know and love. The privilege of preserving such a sacred place and its character truly keeps us going.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Being set apart. It means that we have continued to serve our community in a way that is unique and worthy of returning year after year. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? J's is currently hard at work developing our new loca-

tion on Garden Street. We are ecstatic about this new opportunity and all of the memories that will be made there in the future.

Answers by: Ryan Thomas, Owner

JACKSON'S STEAKHOUSE

400 S. Palafox St., jacksonsrestaurant.com

What inspired you to get started? Jackson's opened in 1998, and in 2008, we had an opportunity to take ownership. We chose to for a number of reasons; most importantly, Jackson's is special to downtown, a cornerstone of fine dining in Pensacola. The food, atmosphere and service create a wonderful combination for a special night.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our commitment to excellence and the people we serve. We are proud of the role we play in downtown Pensacola's revitalization, and we are driven to keep raising the bar through exceptional food, service and hospitality that keeps our guests coming back.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Being known as one of the best restaurants for steaks and fine dining is a true honor. It means our team's dedication to quality, consistency and hospitality is recognized. At Jackson's, it's about creating unforgettable experiences where every detail matters, representing Pensacola with the level of excellence our guests deserve.

Answers by: Maria Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events at Great Southern Restaurants

JUAN'S FLYING BURRITO

200 S. Alcaniz St., juansflyingburrito.com

What inspired you to get started? We began as a place where anyone could afford to be themselves and afford to eat something healthy. We take pride in the fact that people of all walks of life are comfortable in our confines.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Our motivation is seeing guests find a craveable item they love and watching them come back frequently to get it.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Being the best means that you are doing something right. It means that the people appreciate the hard work the team does daily. We love it. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We will continue to be more efficient and creative in our food and service.

Answers by: Warren F. Chapoton, "We are all Juan"

KATE'S CAKES

instagram.com/katescakes_pensacola

What inspired you to get started? I made a 3D rubber duck cake for a friend's birthday in sixth grade and really enjoyed the challenge, and suddenly all my friends wanted fun cakes for their birthdays. I loved seeing their smiles and making them feel special.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I still love seeing the joy custom cakes and cookies can bring to someone. Creating things based off specific decor and being unique allows me to exercise creativity. On a practical level, providing for my family while being able to work from home is priceless.

What does being the "best" mean to you? I have a really high standard for myself and the orders I take on. Winning this title as a small business that works out of my home really blows me away. Thank you so much, Pensac-

ola, for seeing me and choosing me for your cake and cookie needs.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Professionally, I plan to keep creating. Looking forward to the newest trends; who knows, maybe I'll spearhead the next one. Rubber ducky, anyone? Personally, looking forward to several large trips next year and my first time abroad (so get those requests in soon).

Answers by: Kate Jones, Owner

MÁS QUE DULCES

facebook.com/masquedulces.py

What inspired you to get started? I love spreading happiness, one gourmet sweet at a time. Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The stories of how my gourmet sweets bring joy to my customers. Whether it is a treat for oneself or a friend, or the centerpiece of a special occasion, it always encourages me to keep going and to keep helping others create special memories.

What does being the "best" mean to you? Putting my heart and soul into creating something special and memorable.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? I want to continue to create new flavor combinations, expand my seasonal menus and add a few new treats for those with special dietary requests. I would also love the opportunity to participate in another local bake-off.

Answers by: Andrea Spradlin, Owner/Baker NAREE'S BAKED GOODS nareesbakedgoods.com

What inspired you to get started? As a kid, I was always into baking. I continued, on and off, as I grew up. Eventually, I got to a point where baking became a passion of mine that I wanted to share. It brings me so much joy to see others enjoy my creations.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I look forward to seeing others try new things, whether it's new flavors or kinds of desserts. The positive feedback I get inspires me to keep going. I have a drive to keep catering to everyone's sweet tooth, because dessert is always the best part of a meal. What does being the "best" mean to you? New customers becoming regular customers. It means that someone will keep coming back to me to get that one thing that they truly love. The one thing that changed their life.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

I hope to one day open a cafe or bakery that offers traditional desserts, as well as Asian flavor inspired desserts. A place where you can go and get a classic vanilla cake or where you can get beautiful, bright purple ube macarons.

Answers by: Naree VanNess, Home Baker

RESTAURANT IRON

22 N. Palafox St., restaurantiron.com

What inspired you to get started? We have always enjoyed creating great experiences around food. A great meal, combined with outstanding hospitality, has the power to bring people together. The ability to make every dining experience extraordinary was the initial motivation and continues to be a constant theme.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? The same thing that has motivated us from the beginning: the love

for hospitality and the constant pursuit of excellence and never settling for average. That responsibility, and the joy it brings, keeps us moving forward.

What does being the "best" mean to you?

Having a quiet confidence, knowing who we are, holding ourselves to a higher standard and always striving to be better than yesterday. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally?

Including the successful launch of our new lunch menu, we're exploring the catering offerings with seasonal menus that travel well without compromising quality. It's about meeting guest expectations while staying intentional and focused on quality.

Answers by: Danielle Blanchard, Marketing Coordinator

SAUCE BOSS BURGER CO.

319 N. Tarragona St., saucebossburger.com

What inspired you to get started? Since I was tall enough to see the kitchen counter, I have wanted to cook for others. I dipped my toe into the food truck industry back in 2021 and have been running full speed ahead ever since.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and being so lucky to share that passion with so many is something I never thought I would be able to do. Staying creative and maintaining our quality and consistency makes this one of the most rewarding jobs in the world.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It's all about giving back. Using these awards to fuel our drive to feed more people, employ more people and keep putting out better and better burgers. In our short three-year run, we have already earned nearly 30 different awards and that means the world.

What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? We are working our way toward expanding into a brick-and-mortar space. This has always been a goal of ours and as much as we love operating our food trucks, we know the regulars would appreciate some AC. Here's to location number three.

Answers by: Chef Eli Cook, Owner

THE THIRSTY RANCH thethirstyranch.com

What inspired you to get started? Our daughter was getting married, and she inspired me to create our Little Blue for her special day. That little vision has grown into a full-service mobile beverage company, winning awards for our beverages and service.

Now that you're established, what motivates you to keep going? I truly love what I do. I cannot imagine being in another business besides the event business. I am truly blessed to be able to help our clients create their visions to wow their guests.

What does being the "best" mean to you? It truly means so much that other business owners and clients alike support me doing what I love. What's the next goal or project on the horizon for you—personally and/or professionally? Continue to add services to our operations to be able to bring our award-winning services to all aspects of their event.

Answers by: Melissa Weber, CEO {in}

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Arts & Entertainment

art, film, music, stage, books and other signs of civilization...

Meet Antoine Knight

By Savannah Evanoff

ways known me as Antoine—it's a treat when they get to see me as Antoine Knight. I'm very excited about the show, and I've really been working hard on it. The band is working hard on putting this all together."

Knight will perform at Brownsville Community Center as part of his company Blow Da Horn Entertainment, LLC's "Pensacola Labor Day Jazz Series 2025." Also performing at the event is guitarist JJ Sansaverino—alongside special guest singer Vivian Sessoms— and international recording artist Castella.

"It's going to be a star-studded night," Knight said.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Southern Youth Sports Association.

"Growing up in Pensacola, I played little league ball, played Pee Wee PONY League, and I benefited from those programs," Knight said. "So part of the proceeds is just sort of a way of me giving back to the community down there."

Knight has played saxophone professionally for more than 23 years and toured around the world with various bands. But it all started when he was 11, taking after his cousin and role model,

"I really was exposed to a lot of the sounds of Motown, and my late auntie used to have an old tape by a saxophonist by the name of Junior

Walker," Knight said. "And Junior used to come to Pensacola and do shows, but you know, he had some very big, iconic hits on Motown as a saxophonist as Jr. Walker & The All Stars, and that is what really birthed me into playing sax."

What makes Knight unique as an instrumentalist is his awareness of the audience, he said.

"When you're engaged with your audience, they can really be drawn into what you do and what you're playing," Knight said. "And you have to not only play well, which I spend a lot of time perfecting—me playing well—but you also have to be an entertainer. One hand cannot wash the other."

Knight wasn't a born entertainer or natural musician. He has talent, but he had to work at it, he said.

"If you told me 25 years ago that, 'You're going to be a professional musician, and you're going to produce albums and play all over the world,' I would look at you sideways like, 'You're kind of delusional,'" Knight said.

Knight actually quit playing the saxophone at 16—becoming disinterested when 1980s synthesizers took over the music scene—and didn't pick it back up again until his mid-20s. Then he spent another decade developing his signature, at times wishing he hadn't lost those 10 years.

Knight found his way back to the instrument after a chance encounter with a performance in Atlanta by the late Roderick 'Rod' Smith, the former band director at Morehouse College. Smith became his mentor, and Knight is grateful a man of such prominence took him under his wing.

"As I go through this journey, it seems like on the level I'm playing at now professionally, I never understood what Dizzy Gillespie said—he said, 'The better you become, the harder it is,'"

Knight said. "And I never understood that early in my career, but as I progress and get better, it seems like things are getting harder now, because I'm playing against some of the elite musicians. And it's just something that keeps me humble, and it keeps me growing, and it gives me the attitude that, 'Look, I don't know everything. The music is bigger than me. All I can do is just try to offer something to what God has given me on the instrument.'"

Knight, now based in Atlanta, has a song dedicated to the city called "The Drive on 285." He will perform it in Pensacola, along with other originals.

"The song is the highest charting song I ever produced," Knight said. "285 in Atlanta is a big circle. It's a highway that you have the options of going through Atlanta, or you can take a bypass and loop around Atlanta. It's a very catchy, iconic name, because 285 is very iconic in Atlanta. Everybody knows 285, and the people in Atlanta can really relate to it. So I'm really excited about doing that song." {in}

PENSACOLA LABOR DAY JAZZ SERIES 2025

WHAT: A night of jazz featuring Antoine Knight, JJ Sansaverino, Castella and Vivian Sessoms

WHEN: Doors open 6 p.m., show starts 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31

WHERE: Brownsville Community Center, 3200 W. De Soto St.

COST: $55 general admission, $75 VIP DETAILS: bit.ly/theknightjazzseries, facebook.com/antoineknightII

a&e happenings

NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS

INTERNATIONAL OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY Hope Above Fear will host the third annual International Overdose Awareness Day in partnership with Valerie's House 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31at 904 E. Gadsden St. The event will include live music, food trucks, crafts and games for kids, memorial lawn and picture wall, guest speakers, and free Narcan and information on local resources. Visit facebook.com/ hopeabovefear for details.

PUPS OF PENSACOLA CALENDAR CON -

TEST WolfGang Pensacola, LLC, in partnership with Hoff House Pet Photography, is happy to announce the return of its calendar fundraiser. Proceeds, after costs and fees, from the contest raise funds for the Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare. Submit a photo of your dog for $15 (limit of two dogs per photo). Every dollar donated equals one vote. The contest runs through Sept. 6. For details, visit gogophotocontest.com/wolfgangpensacola.

ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Ani -

mal Allies Florida hosts bingo twice monthly at Beef 'O' Brady's, 1 New Market St., Cantonment (on Nine Mile Road near Pine Forest Road). The cost is 10 rounds of bingo for $10, with cash prizes for winners. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. For more information, visit facebook.com/animalalliesflorida.

ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN ADOP -

TION Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.

CARING & SHARING MINISTRY FOOD

DRIVE The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens 10 a.m. and also has clothing. Food donations needed are pop-top canned goods, Beanie Weenies, Vienna sausage, potted meat, cans of tuna and chicken and soups. Clothing donations needed include tennis shoes for men and women, as well as sweatshirts and new underwear for men in sizes small, medium and large. Call DeeDee Green at (850) 723-3390

CALL TO ARTISTS

2025 PIECES ADRIFT Keep Pensacola Beautiful is accepting submissions from artists for the Pieces Adrift Art Show & Auction. The goal of this event is to highlight works of art produced with reused or recycled items. You don't have to be an established artist to participate. All skill levels are welcome. The event is Saturday, Oct. 25. Planning is underway. This year, they will provide awards for different age categories created by an artist from Gulf Shores who makes art out of reused materials. If you're interested in serving on the committee, please email Vanesa at volunteer@keeppensacolabeautiful.org. If you would like to submit a piece of artwork for the upcoming show, fill out the form at form.jotform.com/251134246638153.

ARTS & CULTURE

PACE LIBRARY BOOK SALE The Friends of the Pace Library will hold a book sale 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29 and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 at the Pace Library, 4750 Pace Patriot Blvd.

GAME NIGHT: SHORT AND SWEET Game night for adults 21 and older at Pensacola MESS Hall is 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28 at 418 E. Wright St. It will feature board games like Fluxx, Qwingo, Mancala and more. Light refreshments are provided. Details and registration are at pensacolamesshall.org/game-night-august.

PRINTMAKING CLOTHING ART CLASS

Visit Flip Flops on Palafox Vendor Mall for a printmaking basics class 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 30 at 4406 N. Palafox St. Cost is $25. T-shirts of all sizes will be available, or you can bring one or two items of your own. To sign up, call the store at (850) 466-3305.

309 ARCHIVE PRESERVATION PARTY

Help 309 archive old punk fliers and posters 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 at 309 N. Sixth Ave. Refreshments will be available. Details are at facebook.com/309punkproject.

RACHEL PONGETTI: UNEXPECTED ANALOG DREAM Rachel Pongetti, the author of the "Pensacola Graffiti Bridge Project," will have an exhibit on view through Aug. 31 at Open Books, 1040 N. Guillemard St.

JOE HOBBS EXHIBIT RECEPTION An exhibit by glass artist Joe Hobbs, "Time and Place," is on display through Oct. 10 at the Charles W. Lamar Studio at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. A reception and artist lecture is 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2.

DRAW TOGETHER DRAWING CLUB The club starts 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. It's a free event open to all ages and skill levels with supplies provided.

STAND-UP COMEDY HOSTED BY RYAN PFEIFFER, FEATURING LENA IBRAHIM, ARUN KRISHNAN AND CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS Show starts 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info is available at thehandlebar850.com.

SEPTEMBER EXHIBIT TOURS Visit Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St., for an intimate tour of Gestalt of the Berth. Tours are 3-4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5 and 5-6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.

STEVEN HO: IS IT AN EMERGENCY? Comedian Steven Ho will perform 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Tickets and info are at pensacolasaenger.com.

IN YOUR FACE: PORTRAITS BY GILA RAYBERG Mosaic portraiture by Gila Rayberg is on view through Sept. 7 at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.

GESTALT OF THE BERTH The latest exhibit at Pensacola Museum of Art is Gestalt of the Berth, a culmination of the inaugural Artistin-Residence program at Gulf Islands National Seashore. Selected artist, designer and educator John Dougherty was tasked with forging a stronger connection between the local arts community and the park, and he saw collaboration as the most effective approach. The show features the work of John Dougherty and includes participating artists Nicholas Croghan, Poppy Garcia, Stoycho Hadziev, Joe Hobbs, Richard Humphries, Steve Matechik, Mia McCann, Keeley Morgan, Paul Myers, Nick Phoenix, Richard Rodriguez and Eniko Ujj. A closing exhibition is 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26. More details are at pensacolamuseum.org.

DUALITIES: NATIONAL SCULPTURE EXHIBITION This national exhibition will feature works from various artists at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. The exhibition is on view through Jan. 11. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.

PENSACOLA ROSE SOCIETY Monthly meetings are normally 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Pensacola Garden Center, 1850 N. Ninth Ave. Visit pensacolarosesociety.org for more information.

BTB COMEDY Watch live standup comedy in open mic style 7 p.m. Mondays at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Follow BTB Comedy on Facebook for updates.

COMEDY SHOWCASE AT SUBCULTURE

BTB Comedy presents a comedy showcase the first Thursday monthly at Subculture Art Gallery, 701 N. V St. Follow facebook.com/pensacolasubculture for updates.

SCRIPTEASERS Join writers at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St., for Scripteasers every month. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for details.

PALAFOX MARKET Enjoy Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. The event features local farmers, artists and crafters on North and South Palafox streets at Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza and Plaza Ferdinand. For updates, visit facebook.com/downtownpensacola.

CABARET DRAG SHOWCASE AT AMERICAN LEGION POST #193 Don't miss Cabaret Drag Showcase every second and fourth Saturday at the American Legion Post #193, 2708 N. 12th Ave. Doors open 8 p.m. Showtime is 10 p.m. For more information, contact show director Taize Sinclair-Santi at taizesinclairsanti@gmail.com.

SPIRITS OF SEVILLE QUARTER GHOST TOUR AND LUNCHEON Dine inside Pensacola's oldest and most haunted restaurant and investigate the spirits with actual paranormal equipment at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Tickets are $12 and include a voucher toward Seville Quarter's menu. Tours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. Sundays. Make an appointment by calling (850) 941-4321.

a&e happenings

AFTER DARK: SEVILLE QUARTER

GHOSTS, MURDER, MAYHEM AND MYSTERY TOUR AND DINNER After Dark Paranormal Investigation and Dinner happens inside one of Pensacola's most haunted restaurants with real ghost-hunting equipment 6-8 p.m. Sundays. Listen as your guide weaves tales of ghosts, debauchery, murder, mayhem, paranormal activities, history and more related to Seville Quarter and downtown Historic Pensacola. After your ghost tour, enjoy dinner at Seville Quarter Palace Café, 130 E. Government St. Reservations are required. Call (850) 941-4321. Tickets are available at pensacolaghostevents.com.

FOOD

+ DRINKS

PALATE PASSPORT SERIES Cooking class is 6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Ave, Unit C. Cost is $250 per student with payment plans available (includes five two-hour sessions). Sign up at pensacolacooks.com/cooking-classes.

CULTURES COOK: CAJUN TAILGATING

Cooking class is 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Ave., Ste. C. Cost is $60 per student (adults only). Sign up at pensacolacooks.com/cooking-classes.

TAILGATE FEST AT PERFECT PLAIN Cookoff is 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 at Perfect Plain, 50 E. Garden St. More festivities continue through the night. Tickets and details are at facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT Play corn hole, eat corn dogs and drink corn lager at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St., noon-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31. Details are at facebook.com/oddcolony.

HOMEMADE BREAD CLASS: BEGINNER

Class is 11 a.m.-noon Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Bodacious, 407-D S. Palafox St. Tickets are $43.61 and available on eventbrite.com.

ATLAS BEVERAGE CLASS: KETEL ONE BOTANICALS

The next Atlas Beverage Class is 5 and 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4 at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. Class cost is $30 and includes beverages, and chances for giveaways. Seating is limited. Reserve your spot by emailing taylor@goodgrits.com or calling (850) 287-0200.

CRAVIN ASIAN: THAI FLAVORS Cooking class is 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5 at Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Avenue, Ste. C. Cost is $50 per student (adults only). Sign up at pensacolacooks.com/cooking-classes.

LUNCH SERVICE AT RESTAURANT IRON

Restaurant Iron, 22 N. Palafox St., now offers a refined midday experience starting 11 a.m. Monday-Friday. Dinner service will continue to be available Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (850) 476-7776 or visiting restaurantiron.com/ reservations. Walk-ins will also be welcome based on availability.

LUNCH & DINNER AT SEVILLE QUAR -

TER Enjoy a good meal and atmosphere with lunch and dinner at Seville Quarter. At 11 a.m.

in Apple Annie's Courtyard, have the soup and salad bar, featuring more than 30 fresh selections, along with a delicious variety of sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, wings and local Gulf seafood favorites. Beginning at 5 p.m., dinner is served in the historic Palace Café, where the culinary team brings creative, flavorful dishes to the table, blending Southern comfort, local ingredients and Seville Quarter flair. Details are at sevillequarter.com.

DOWNTOWN HAPPY HOUR AT SEVILLE

QUARTER Drink specials and laid-back vibes are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. every weekday throughout the entire Seville Quarter complex with $2 off all liquor drinks and $1 off all beer and wine. Must be 21 or older. Visit sevillequarter.com for details.

MEN'S NIGHT AT WISTERIA From 3 p.m. to close Mondays, guys can play free darts and enjoy $6 craft tallboys. There are more than 150 craft beers to choose from at Wisteria, 3803 N. 12th Ave. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.

BAR BINGO AT SEVILLE QUARTER Bar Bingo is 8 p.m. Mondays at Apple Annie's at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Drink specials include $2.50 Miller Lite bottles and $3.50 Bomb shots. Bingo is free to play with prizes, giveaways and bar tabs up for grabs for winners. Visit sevillequarter.com for details.

FIGHTER GAME NIGHT AT O'RILEY'S Gamers unite 5 p.m.-close Mondays at O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.

BINGO NIGHT AT CALVERT'S IN THE HEIGHTS Play a game (or two) of bingo 6-8 p.m. Mondays at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. For more information, visit calvertsintheheights.com.

DOUBLE MONDAYS AND SIN NIGHT Enjoy Double Mondays 8 p.m.-midnight and SIN Night 11 p.m. to close at O'Riley's Tavern, 3728 Creighton Road. Details are at orileystavern.com.

MARTINI NIGHT AT THE KENNEDY Every Tuesday, The Kennedy, 1 S. Palafox St., hosts Martini Night, featuring all martinis from the menu for $10 from open to close (4-11 p.m.).

75-CENT OYSTERS AT ATLAS Enjoy 75-cent oysters 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. For more information, visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com.

MUSIC BINGO Test your music knowledge 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Wisteria, 3808 N. 12th Ave. Take part in half-price bottles of wine and $5 canned cocktails. Visit wisteriatavern.com for details.

POKER NIGHT AND BINGO AT O'RILEY'S Visit O'Riley's Irish Pub for poker at 6:30 p.m. and bar bingo 8-10 p.m. Tacos are on special Tuesdays at 321 S. Palafox St. Visit orileyspub.com for details.

for more listings visit inweekly.net

free will astrology

WEEK OF AUGUST 28

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): In some Buddhist mandalas, the outer circle depicts a wall of fire. It marks the boundary between the chaotic external world and the sacred space within. For seekers and devotees, it's a symbol of the transformation they must undergo to commune with deeper truths. I think you're ready to create or bolster your own flame wall, Aries. What is nonnegotiable for your peace, your creativity, your worth? Who or what belongs in your inner circle? And what must stay outside? Be clear about the boundaries you need to be your authentic self.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Centuries ago, builders in Venice, Italy, drove countless wooden pilings deep into the waterlogged mud of the lagoon to create a stable base for future structures. These timber foundations were essential because the soil was too weak to support stone buildings directly. Eventually, the wood absorbed minerals from the surrounding muddy water and became exceptionally hard and durable: capable of supporting heavy buildings. Taurus, you may soon glimpse how something you've built your life upon—a value, relationship or daily ritual—is more enduring than you imagined. Its power is in its rootedness, its long conversation with the invisible. My advice: Trust what once seemed soft but has become solid. Thank life for blessing you with its secret alchemy.

By Rob Brezsny

emotional depths is asking for your attention. What part of you needs reverence, tenderness and ceremonial care?

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): In ancient Rome, the lararium was a home altar. It wasn't used for momentous appeals to the heavyweight deities like Jupiter, Venus, Apollo, Juno and Mars. Instead, it was there that people performed daily rituals, seeking prosperity, protection and health from their ancestors and minor household gods. I think now is a fine time to create your own version of a lararium, Cancerian. How could you fortify your home base to make it more nurturing and uplifting? What rituals and playful ceremonies might you do to generate everyday blessings?

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): In Persian miniature painting, entire epics are compressed into exquisite images the size of a hand. Each creation contains worlds within worlds, myths tucked into detail. I suggest you draw inspiration from this approach, Leo. Rather than imagining your life as a grand performance, play with the theme of sacred compression. Be alert for seemingly transitory moments that carry enormous weight. Proceed on the assumption that a brief phrase or lucky accident may spark sweet changes. What might it look like to condense your full glory into small gifts that people can readily use?

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): In Andean cosmology, the condor and the hummingbird are both sacred messengers. One soars majestically at high altitudes, a symbolic bridge between the earth and heaven. The other moves with supple efficiency and detailed precision, an icon of resilience and high energy. Let's make these birds your spirit creatures for the coming months. Your challenging but feasible assignment is to both see the big picture and attend skillfully to the intimate details.

ergies, like chaotic schedules, reactive people or tangled decisions. But don't act impulsively. Wait. Listen. Watch. Openings will happen when the noise settles and others tire themselves out. You don't need to overpower. You just need to time your grace. Golden wool is waiting, but it can't be taken by force.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): In Inuit myth, Sedna is the goddess who lives at the bottom of the sea and oversees all marine life. If humans harm nature or neglect spiritual truths, Sedna may stop allowing them to catch sea creatures for food, leading to starvation. Then shamans from the world above must swim down to sing her songs and comb her long black hair. If they win her favor, she restores balance. I propose that you take direction from this myth, Gemini. Some neglected beauty and wisdom in your

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): In the ancient Greek myth of Psyche, one of her trials is to gather golden wool from violent rams. She succeeds by waiting until the torrid heat of midday passes, and the rams are resting in the cool shade. She safely collects the wool from bushes and branches without confronting the rams directly. Let this be a lesson, Libra. To succeed at your challenges, rely on strategy rather than confrontation. It's true that what you want may feel blocked by difficult en-

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): In 1911, two teams tried to become the first humans to reach the South Pole. Roald Amundsen's group succeeded, but Robert Falcon Scott's did not. Why? Amundsen had studied with Indigenous people who were familiar with frigid environments. He adopted their clothing choices (fur and layering), travel techniques (dogsledding) and measured, deliberate pacing—including lots of rest. Scott exhausted himself and his people with inconsistent bursts of intense effort and stubbornly inept British strategies. Take your cues from Amundsen, dear Scorpio. Get advice from real experts. Pace yourself; don't sprint. Be consistent rather than melodramatic. Opt for discipline instead of heroics.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): A lighthouse isn't concerned with whether ships are watching it from a distance. It simply shines forth its strong beams, no questions asked. It rotates, pulses and moves through its cycles, because that's its natural task. Its purpose is steady illumination, not recognition. In the coming weeks, Sagittarius, I ask and encourage you to be like a lighthouse. Be loyal to your own gleam. Do what you do best because it pleases you. The ones who need your signal will find you. You don't have to chase them across the waves.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): In 1885, Sarah E. Goode became the fourth African American woman to be granted a U.S. patent. Her invention was ingenious: a folding cabinet bed that could be transformed into a roll-top desk. It appealed to people who lived in small

apartments and needed to save space. I believe you're primed and ready for a similar advance in practical resourcefulness, Capricorn. You may be able to combine two seemingly unrelated needs into one brilliant solution—turning space, time or resources into something more graceful and useful. Let your mind play with hybrid inventions and unlikely pairings.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): I expect you will be knowledgeable and smart in the coming weeks, Aquarius. But I hope you will also be wise and savvy. I hope you will wrestle vigorously with the truth so you can express it in practical and timely ways. You must be ingenious as you figure out the precise ways to translate your intelligence into specifically right actions. So for example: You may feel compelled to be authentic in a situation where you have been reticent, or to share a vision that has been growing quietly. Don't stay silent, but also: Don't blurt. Articulate your reality checks with elegance and discernment. The right message delivered at the wrong moment could make a mess, whereas that same message will be a blessing if offered at the exact turning point.

PISCES

(FEB. 19-MARCH 20): Liubai is a Chinese term that means "to leave blank." In traditional ink painting, it referred to the portions of the canvas the artist chose not to fill in. Those unpainted areas were not considered empty. They carried emotional weight, inviting the eye to rest and the mind to wander. I believe your near future could benefit from this idea, Pisces. Don't feel you have to spell everything out or tie up each thread. It may be important not to explain and reveal some things. What's left unsaid, incomplete or open-ended may bring you more gifts than constant effort. Let a little stillness accompany whatever you're creating.

HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: Sometimes it's a chore to change yourself. But why not choose a fun change? {in}

freewillastrology.com newsletter.freewillastrology.com freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com BrezsnyAstrology@gmail.com © 2025 Rob Brezsny

THE PASSING PARADE The South China Morning Post reported on Aug. 5 that adults in China are turning to pacifiers to ease their stress, improve sleep and stop smoking. The adult binkies are larger than the infant models and come in different colors, and shops say they're selling more than 2,000 each month. "It's high quality, soft, and I feel comfortable sucking it," said one buyer. "It does not impede my breathing." But Chengdu dentist Tang Caomin isn't a fan: "By sucking the dummy for more than three hours a day, the position of your teeth might change after a year."

NOPE Talk about rodents of unusual size. A giant rat—perhaps the biggest ever caught in the United Kingdom—was recently captured in North Yorkshire, reported The Independent on Aug. 5. The rodent, removed by exterminators from a home in the Greater Eston area, measured 22 inches long and was described as "almost the size of a small cat." (For reference, rats in the U.K. usually stay under 11 inches, on average.) Some local leaders say pest issues have dramatically worsened since the end of free services for residents in the area. Eston ward councilor David Taylor said the rodents were becoming "brazen," adding, "The longer this is ignored, the worse it will get."

•In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents have reported seeing rabbits with black, tentaclelike protrusions on their heads, KUSA-TV reported. Colorado Parks and Wildlife said the horny growths are caused by a virus that is not dangerous to humans or pets, but warned people not to touch them just the same. The "Frankenstein rabbits" are not in pain, CPW said, unless the spines grow on sensitive areas like the eyes. There is no known cure.

RECENT ALARMING HEADLINES

Dan Burton, owner of Urban Trapping Wildlife Control in Salinas, California, alerted officials of Monterey County and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to a discovery he made while trapping wild pigs in early August. The Los Angeles Times reported that when Burton cut into one of the animals, he discovered that the flesh was ... offcolor. "I'm not talking about a little blue," he said. "I'm talking about neon blue, blueberry blue." Fish and wildlife officials say the blue flesh is probably caused by exposure to a poison popularly used by farmers to control rats, mice, squirrels and other rodents. They are warning trappers and hunters not to consume the blue flesh, and some of the poison traps have been pulled from the fields because of pigs seeking them out.

•The Missouri Department of Health and Human Services is warning visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks about a rare "brain-eating" infection called Naegleria fowleri, KSHB-TV reported on Aug. 13. A man who had been water skiing in the lake is now being treated in intensive care at a Missouri hospital, officials said. The infection enters the human body through the nose, then travels into the brain.

132 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS Three Deutsche Post volunteers—or elves, you might call them—

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

left St. Nikolaus, Germany, on Aug. 9 and started cycling toward Santa Claus Village in Finland, the Associated Press reported. The trio are carrying more than 30,000 letters and Christmas wish lists that have been delivered to the German village and are expected to arrive in roughly two weeks. The traditional journey dates back to 1967.

UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT In reference to what seems like an obvious enough policy, Starbucks Korea has posted signs in all its shops across the country, warning customers that they may no longer bring desktop computers and printers to the locations to work. United Press International reported on Aug. 11 that Starbucks has also banned setting up large partitions and leaving valuables at a table for long periods of time. The targeted customers are known as "cagongjok," which combines the Korean words for "cafe," "study" and "tribe." Starbucks made the policy change after other customers complained about cafe squatters taking up too much space; laptops will still be welcomed.

CRIME REPORT Everyone should be trying to move to East Greenbush, New York, where police have been busy chasing down the community's hardened criminals, WNYT-TV reported on Aug. 11. Officers have received multiple reports of juveniles playing "ding-dong-ditch" during overnight hours, they said. They called such aberrant behavior disruptive and a violation of state law. Police said if the kids are caught, their antics could lead to charges of harassment, trespassing and disorderly conduct. Zillow, here we come!

THE NEIGHBORS Gary Boyadzhyan of Van Nuys, California, told KTLA-TV on Aug. 13 that he has a mysterious long-running grievance with the Los Angeles Police Department, and that's why he's been blasting home alarms and a train horn from his house for months. "He does this periodically several times during the day," said neighbor Bob Donovan. "It has a range of 3.5 miles. It's an actual train horn." Boyadzhyan says the horns are his way of getting LAPD's attention. "I do sincerely apologize to my neighbors," he said, "but I don't know what else to do." Neighbors are unclear about what kind of help the man needs to solve his prob lem, but they're at wits' end about the noise. But maybe a solution is on the way: Boyadzhyan was arrested on Aug. 13 on unknown charges.

BRIGHT IDEA There's something in the water at Loch Ness in Scotland ... but it's not the famed monster. The Daily Record reported on Aug. 13 that Domino's Pizza has launched a delivery submarine that can reach speeds of 45mph and leap 5 meters out of the water. Pizza Delivery Innovation spokesperson Izzy Gardener said the company is "always looking for new and unexpected ways to deliver to our customers." Loch Ness seemed like a "perfect place to test the waters," Gardener said. {in}

CONGRATULATIONS

To the passionate people who go above and beyond to make Pensacola a better place for all of us, thank you!

You rose to the challenge and your commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed.

Here’s to you!