Here are the 2009 Rising Stars:
ALLAN BELL, 33
Real Estate Broker, Developer
Why nominated: Allan is a hard-working real estate broker, developer and entrepreneur. He gets things done, is dependable and has integrity. Allan has been active in Leadership Pensacola and has been a board member of the American Diabetes Association of Pensacola. He would be a credit to your panel of 2009 Rising Stars.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Great place to raise a family, 2) The water, 3) The weather
What would you like to see in the next five years: Long term vision plans implemented versus short-sighted vision that puts us in the same dilemma year after year
TOSH BELSINGER, 33
President, 1559 Development, LLC
Why nominated: Tosh was part of one of the development companies bidding on the Maritime Park project. He now partners with Joe Endry in 1559 Development, LLC. I see a very bright future for Tosh in shaping things to come in downtown Pensacola and the surrounding areas.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Great opportunity in Pensacola for young entrepreneurs to dream, achieve and make a difference, 2) Pensacola is poised for growth and change, and its citizens and leaders have the exciting opportunity to define their city’s present and future, 3) Our family loves to go to the beach together.
What would you like to see in the next five years: A new regional headquarters in Pensacola for a technology- based Fortune 500 company
JOHN CRAIG BEROSET, 31
Criminal Defense Attorney, Beroset and Keene
Why nominated: John is a local boy who has come back to Pensacola. He graduated from Catholic High in 1996 and was twice Northwest Florida runner of the year in cross country and track. He lives in the downtown Seville area with his wife, who is also an attorney. He is a member of the National Association of Criminal Lawyers, the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the American Inns Of Court.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The beauty of our beaches and downtown area (minus the sewer plant), 2) Family and friends, 3) My job
What would you like to see in the next five years: Maritime Park
NATE BLAYLOCK, 33
Research Scientist, Institute for Human and Machine Cognition;
Bishop, Pace Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Why nominated: Nate leads the joint healthcare technology effort between IHMC and Naval Hospital Pensacola. He represented IHMC in both 2007 and 2008 at the Strategic Health Intelligence Summit, which aims to improve healthcare through technology. Nate is a bright star in our community.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Friendly, down-to-earth people, 2) Low cost of living, 3) The water
What would you like to see in the next five years: Development of Pensacola into a hub of health information technology development
A. ALLEN BOUNDS III, 33
Principal, Bounds Architecture Studio
Why nominated: In addition to being a young and successful small business owner, Allen is a dedicated leader and passionate about the Pensacola community. He was a member of the Leadership Pensacola Class of 2005, serves on the Fiesta of Five Flags Board of Governors and is a member of Pensacola Young Professionals.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Unparalleled marine resources and activities, 2) More potential to become a great American city than most other areas, 3) If you are willing to fight hard enough, you can actually improve Pensacola through your own efforts.
What would you like to see in the next five years: A restructured, privatized Chamber of Commerce that can help represent the City’s direction to people interested in relocating here.
SHANE BOYETT, 28
Regulatory Analyst, Gulf Power Company
Why nominated: He cares about making a difference in our community and with the customers we serve. Shane’s involvement in the Transformers organization requires an amount of his personal time above and beyond the 40-hour work week. Shane also stepped up and took an active role in our Gulf Power Corporate Office United Way campaign in 2008. To be simple and to the point, Shane cares about people. He’s going to do whatever is in his power to help anyone who needs it.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Safe environment to raise family, 2) Casual atmosphere, not too congested or busy, 3) Beaches and waterfront access
What would you like to see in the next five years: Fiscally responsible law-making
KAREN BRAY
Deputy, Escambia Sheriff’s Office
Why nominated: Deputy Bray epitomizes what we look for in a new deputy: confidence, composure and the ability to think on her feet and make split-second decisions. On Friday, Jan. 9, Deputy Bray was heading into work when she witnessed a motorcycle accident. The cyclist, George Orf, crashed into a guardrail injuring his left leg. Bray saved his leg by using a bystander’s belt as a tourniquet to stop profuse bleeding and kept him awake until paramedics arrived.
JEREMY BROWN, 32
Vice President, Williams-Brown Inc.
Why nominated: He and his partner have built a successful contracting business from the ground up in a very short period. Jeremy’s acute business sense, integrity and customer service helped his company grow into one of the area’s most respected contractors. Jeremy and his partner have also made their mark with their redevelopment of the Busbee Tomato building on Romana Street.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The people, 2) The potential, 3) The great business environment
What would you like to see in the next five years: The development of more desirable commercial, retail and residential developments in downtown Pensacola
RICHARD BUCKLEY, 30
Partner, Fletcher|Stein Insurance
Why nominated: Richard is innovative and creative. In addition, he possesses great analytical skills and superior innate intelligence. In my dealings with Richard, I found him to be persistent, focused and highly motivated. He holds himself to the highest professional and ethical standards. He is one of the founding members of the Pensacola Young Professionals and served on its first board.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Quality of life, 2) People, 3) Weather
What would you like to see in the next five years: Consistent use of our waterfront
DEREK COSSON, 22
Proprietor, ProgressivePensacola.com
Why nominated: Derek is a talented young person whose Progressive Pensacola blog has taken off this past year with thoughtful, detailed analysis of local, state and national issues. He is also head of the local Young Democrats and was active in many of the 2008 races. We would be lucky to have more people like him.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Pensacola is beautiful, 2) We’ve got so much rich history, 3) Pensacola is small enough so that you can have that feeling of southern quiet and comfort, yet big enough that we stay busy.
What would you like to see in the next five years: Economic development. We need jobs in this community more than anything.
HARRY MILLER CALDWELL III, 30
Intern Architect, Caldwell Associate Architects, Inc.
Why nominated: Miller is quickly carving out a name for himself in this community, both professionally and in community service. During the 2008 election season, he chaired the PYP Governmental Affairs committee and organized a very successful candidate forum. Miller also volunteers on the Saint Michaels Cemetery Board, Junior Achievement, Covenant Hospice and the City of Pensacola 450th Celebration.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The people, 2) The rich history, 3) Our beautiful beaches and water
What would you like to see in the next five years: Investment in the downtown “infrastructure”
KASIE L. COPELAND, 34
Vice-President, Blue Angel Mortgage, Inc.
Why nominated: In addition to taking care of her family, Kasie runs a thriving mortgage business in tough economic times. She also leads the Pensacola Breast Cancer Association, raising money for many things including funds for indigent women to receive free mammograms. Kasie is a hardworking, family-oriented and caring person.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) A “family-oriented” community, 2) Pensacola continues to grow, 3) Pensacola has a lot of events like bigger cities but with a “hometown” feel.
What would you like to see in the next five years: Continuation of growth and bringing jobs into the area
LEAH DUGAN, 27
Executive Assistant, University of West Florida
Why nominated: Leah is a person who doesn’t actively draw attention to herself, but rather has a genuine heart for service and teamwork. She has taken on a very high level of responsibility at UWF, including planning the 2007 event to launch the public phase of the University’s $35 million Creating Great Futures campaign. Leah is widely respected as a “quiet leader” at the University.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Every weekend at the beach feels like a vacation. 2) The weather, 3) Close family and friends make you feel right at home.
What would you like to see in the next five years: Community Maritime Park, including the VADM Fetterman Maritime Museum and Hunter Amphitheater
PENELOPE ELEBASH, 26
Solutions Coach, Studer Group
Why nominated: She has excellent problem-solving skills; she is proactive and strategic; a team player, mentoring and leading new team members as they build their knowledge and develop competency. Penelope has a history of community involvement in Pensacola, from her early days of high school involvement, and has mentored several non-profit organizations on Studer Group tools and tactics. She is a definite star.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Waterfront and beaches, 2) People and community, 3) Rich history
What would you like to see in the next five years: Building and completion of the Community Maritime Park
KC ETHEREDGE, 31
Alumni Relations Director, University of West Florida
Why nominated: KC is a great example of what needs to be done to have the University and the community work together for a better tomorrow for Pensacola. She does a fine job of leading efforts to engage UWF’s over 60,000 alumni. KC has also been very involved in the community, including Junior League, Rotary, United Way and PYP.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Great place to raise a family, 2) Wonderful community members, 3) Surrounded by natural beauty
What would you like to see in the next five years: Movement towards consolidated government
KRISTIN FAIRCHILD, 34
Executive Director, Chain Reaction
Why nominated: Kristin impacts Northwest Florida’s most valuable resource, our future leaders, in a phenomenal way. As executive director of Chain Reaction, Kristin engages teenagers to give back to their community through leadership training and volunteer service to non profits. She is a great role model with contagious enthusiasm for Pensacola.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The beach, 2) It is a great place to raise kids, 3) Everyone has the opportunity to become involved and make a difference.
What would you like to see in the next five years: 10,000 teens serving in their community through leadership positions and volunteerism
CARA FERRIS, 30
Language Arts Instructor, and Head Varsity Girl’s Basketball Coach, Booker T. Washington High School
Why nominated: Cara has been described by her peers as being a leader, energetic, enthusiastic, dedicated to the education profession, and more importantly, educating the youth of today. I have seen her work many long hours before and after school with students whom others might well have labeled hopeless, and I have seen some astounding results because of her refusal to quit working for the good of her students.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Wonderful place to raise a family, 2) Beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery, 3) Very little traffic and easy access to most areas
What would you like to see in the next five years: Better opportunities for the younger generation to have careers in corporate America
RYAN P. HATLER, 32
Attorney, Clark, Partington, Hart, Larry, Bond & Stackhouse
Why nominated: Ryan moved to Pensacola after Katrina and has thrown himself into the community. He is actively in involved in PYP and is in the current Leadership Pensacola class. Ryan is dedicated to the community and working hard to make it a better place. He is becoming and will be a leader who gets things done.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Natural beauty, 2) Weather, 3) History
What would you like to see in the next five years: Maritime Park
JOHN S. GRIFFIN, 28
Interior Designer, McAlpin Interiors
Why nominated: He has given his volunteer time to the Gulf Coast Kids House, the Pensacola Symphony, the American Diabetes Association, First Baptist Church Tour of Tables, Association of Retarded Citizens and Northwest Florida Arts Council. I do not know many his age who have given back to their community is such a short time as John Griffin.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Mild climate, 2) Beautiful beaches, 3) A developing downtown area
What would you like to see in the next five years: The development of the Maritime Park
BRICE F. HARRIS, Ph.D., 31
Director of Defense & Aerospace Programs, Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine;
Adjunct Faculty Member, U.S. Marine Corps Command & Staff College
Why nominated: Brice is one of the brightest young men I have worked with. He is very honest, hard working and innovative. He has put together the whole space program for Andrews. He teaches night classes to our military on tactical warfare. He is also developing incubator companies for our area.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) People/Culture, 2) Climate/Geography, 3) Tremendous potential for economic growth and academic expansion
What would you like to see in the next five years: Growth and development of the region’s premier economic sectors: national defense; aviation and aerospace; health and medical services; high technology research and development; and hospitality and tourism
JAKE HESSE, 26
Business Development Manager, Landrum Professionals
Why nominated: Jake joined Landrum several months ago as a Business Development Manager. We were impressed with him because, at a very young age, he owned his own real estate business. Jake is involved in PYP and the UWF Alumni Association and is mentoring his Fraternity. He works hard, and he gives back to his community. He’d be very worthy!
Three best reasons to live here: 1) People, 2) Location, 3) Potential
What would you like to see in the next five years: Better education
ILDI GASPAR HOSMAN, 32
Media and Communications Manager,
Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
Why nominated: Ildi is a “Rising Star” in every sense of the word. The marketing manager for the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Ildi’s job is to create awareness about the Chamber’s Economic Development and Workforce initiatives. In addition, Ildi currently serves as President-elect of the Junior League of Pensacola, is a 2008 LeaP graduate, United Way “Emerging Leader,” UWF Chapter Advisor for Alpha Gamma Delta, and is an adjunct professor of Communications and Public Speaking at PJC. Ildi is an asset to this community.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) A great place to raise kids, 2) The people are nice, 3) It’s beautiful!
What would you like to see in the next five years: The Community Maritime Park built and operational
COURTNEY HUMBAUGH, 30
Vice President of Marketing, Humbaugh Lift Company
Why nominated: Courtney is a phenomenal leader with a great personality and a big heart. She worked with Covenant Hospice for several years until she joined her husband to run their own business. In addition to serving as secretary on the Executive Board at the Gulf Breeze Chamber Board of Directors, she is also co-chair of the Good Neighbor Ambassador Program, on the Gala committee and chair of the Casino Night fundraiser. Courtney won Volunteer of the Year in 2006 and Humbaugh Lift Company won the 2007 Small Business of the Year Award.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The natural beauty of the area, 2) The hospitality of the people who live here, 3) The strong sense of community and the many wonderful volunteer opportunities available that enhance our community’s quality of life.
What would you like to see in the next five years: More promotion of this beautiful area regionally and nationally to attract more visitors and new residents and businesses.
DOUG JOLLY, 32
Co-Owner, Red Iron Design House
Why nominated: He has wisdom and knowledge way beyond his years but hides it well with a great sense of humor. Doug is an extraordinary graphic design artist who is known around town for his originality and his professionalism. His business is also extremely generous when working with area non-profits and special events. On a personal note, he and his wife Karen have taken care of over 13 foster kids until they adopted their beautiful daughter.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Opportunity, 2) Community, 3) The outdoors. Can’t help but mention the water. It is a difference maker.
What would you like to see in the next five years: Community Maritime Park
KRISTINE KARSTEN, 33
Commercial Lines Manager, McGraw Insurance Services
Why nominated: Kristine has always stepped up when there is a need to be championed. She has been a point person to lead the Westside Library reading program for her LeaP class. She was there every Saturday volunteering her time for the children of the Westside Community. Kristine was chosen by the PYP Board to pull together a group to start the successful Pensacola Professional Development Institute. Not only is Kristine an excellent employee that will take on any task given to her, she is a true community leader and a devoted mother.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) An absolutely beautiful city with a tremendous amount of potential for growth, 2) The people in our community and the drive that we all share to make a difference, 3) Gorgeous beaches with an abundant amount of sea life
What would you like to see in the next five years: Our community come together to adopt the Unified Government
LAURA LEE, 28
Communications Manager, Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Why nominated: Selfless, generous and effervescent, Laura exemplifies civic and community involvement. Laura promotes Pensacola every day at the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Laura is also involved in Pensacola’s 450th Founding Celebration planning, the African American Heritage Society Board, Junior League, Gallery Coco and the Pensacola Bay Area Advertising Federation. Laura is truly a Rising Star and someone Pensacola and the greater community can take great pride in calling one of their own.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) A welcoming and involved community, 2) Beautiful beaches with lots of water to explore, 3) Fun festivals and events year-round
What would you like to see in the next five years: Curbside recycling for the City of Pensacola, not just ECUA customers
EMILY T. LEIDNER, 26
Marketing Coordinator, Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund
Why nominated: Emily is professional, extremely intelligent, a self-starter, and a very capable marketing coordinator. Emily has become involved in several aspects of our community including this year’s Leadership Pensacola Class, Pensacola Young Professionals, Escambia County Youth Motivators and Fiesta Forces. She is also the secretary of the Pensacola Chapter of the Kappa Delta Alumni Association. Having spent most of her formative years in Pensacola, she is committed to improving the community and spends her non-professional time volunteering and being involved in the community.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Its southern culture and rich history, 2) Being just minutes away from the World’s Whitest Beaches, 3) Small town atmosphere that is centrally located among larger cities
What would you like to see in the next five years: People choosing Pensacola to live, work and play.
KEITH MICHAEL LITTLE, 31
Head Assistant Baseball Coach, Pensacola Junior College
Why nominated: Keith joined PJC in the summer of 08. He is a PJC graduate and received his bachelors from FSU and masters from UWF. He previously coached at Godby High School, PJC, TCC and University of Richmond. He was also the Assistant, then Head Coach of the Valley League Champions, Winchester Royals and a member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Family, 2) Area, 3) Can get just about anywhere in a day’s drive
What would you like to see in the next five years: UWF going Division I in athletics
TERRI MARSHALL, 33
Foster Parent Recruiter, FamiliesFirst Network of Lakeview
Why nominated: Terri is very influential in her many leading roles but leads by a quite example, never expecting anything in return for her spirit of goodwill. She is driven by a true passion of service and the desire to make the quality of life for this community and others better. This individual demonstrates the character, vision and leadership that are great assets to Pensacola’s future.
Three best reasons to live in Pensacola area: 1) Family, 2) Beaches, 3)
Southern Hospitality
What would you like to see in the next five years: Economic Development
MELISSA S. MARTIN, 23
Events Coordinator/Manager, Great
Southern Restaurant Group
Why nominated: Melissa consistently goes above and beyond helping people. She has been basically supporting herself since she was 15 years old. What she has been able to achieve by herself professionally and personally is a true success story. In her spare time she has raised money for Warrington Middle school’s “shooting stars” program. She is a true asset to our staff and moreover our community as a whole.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Close-knit community, 2) The beaches, 3) Great local restaurants
What would you like to see in the next five years: Better job market to attract young professionals
ASHLEY MATTESON, 24
Airport Land Acquisitions Manager, Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport
Why nominated: Ashley is a miracle! She is truly one of the silent heroes in Pensacola. Aside from work at the airport, she is a mentor and volunteers with the United Way. Before the airport, she worked as the Neighborhood Coordinator in the Community Development Department at the City of Pensacola, where she completely revived people’s feeling and actions on the part of their neighborhoods. She will be in Pensacola long term, and she will consistently make a difference.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The most beautiful beaches in the world, 2) Amazing food/culture/history at your fingertips, 3) The perfect size city filled with incredible people
What would you like to see in the next five years: A greater number of jobs for young people fresh out of college
LUTIMOTHY MAY, SR., 31
Assistant Director, Student Support Services, University of West Florida;
Pastor, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church
Why nominated: Young, intelligent, energetic, relentless. All these words epitomize LuTimothy. He has spearheaded various projects, including a Voters’ Registration Drive for neighboring churches, hurricane relief drives and inner city tutoring, just to name a few. He is a man who presents a tangible model for all men to aspire to.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) A great place to establish a new family while raising children, 2) On the brink of explosive economic growth, 3) One of the more beautiful coastal areas in the country
What would you like to see in the next five years: Better communication among local governing bodies
LESLIE MERRITT, 30
Insurance Agent, McMahon Hadder
Why nominated: Leslie is an emerging leader in our community. She is currently in
Leadership Pensacola’s class of 2009. Leslie is outgoing, professional and has a passion to learn and involve herself in the community. She sets high goals for herself and achieves those with determination. Leslie is on an excellent path, and I know that she will go far.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The people and southern hospitality, 2) Our downtown, it’s beautiful, 3) The influx of military and related opportunities
What would you like to see in the next five years: Continued development of our downtown and waterfront
MIKE MORETTE, 27
Project Manager, Morette Company
Why nominated: It has been instilled in him since an early age to become and remain active in the community. He has developed a work ethic that any employer would value. He serves on the Alzheimer’s Family Services Board and is Co-chair of the Human Resources Committee. He is Vice Chair of the Chain Reaction Board. He’s a graduate of the 2007-2008 LeaP Class, where he served on the Executive Committee and chaired the Escambia County Schools Recycle Program. I’m sure he will continue to make an impact on his profession and the community.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The quality of life in our community, 2) The potential for future growth and development of our community, 3) “Big city” assets like our arts programs, while still having the “small town” abilities to get involved and make a real difference
What would you like to see in the next five years: Continued controlled, well-planned, and citizen supported development and growth of downtown Pensacola waterfront in a sustainable manner.
EMILY MIXON, 25
Office Administrator, Quina Grundhoefer Architects;
Choreographer, Pensacola Children’s Chorus
Why nominated: The IN shouldn’t overlook the Arts. Emily is a very talented singer and actress that is giving back to the community. She is a wonderful mentor for the Pensacola Children’s Chorus as their choreographer and has starred in several PLT productions. We’re lucky to have her back in our community.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Our history, 2) Artistic opportunities, 3) A real sense of community here
What would you like to see in the next five years: A Performing/Visual Arts Magnet High School for the Northwest Florida area
K. LEA MORRIS, 27
Attorney, Levin, Papantonio, Thomas, Mitchell, Echsner & Proctor, P.A.
Why nominated: She is not only a talented young lawyer who specializes in mass tort litigation and class actions, but she also has great and long ties to this community through her family. Additionally, Lea has been actively involved in community affairs both inside and outside of her professional life, and she is a great example to us all.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Family, 2) Beaches, 3) You can order Fried Mullet and Sweet Tea for dinner and people don’t look at you like you’re crazy.
What would you like to see in the next five years: A continuation of the push to bring downtown Pensacola back to life, including the development of a plan for additional restaurants, businesses, shops and public green areas as well as more community events.
SAMANTHA MUNOZ, 27
Senior Executive Assistant to the Vice-President for Student Affairs, Pensacola Junior College
Why nominated: Samantha is a rising star at PJC. She has repeatedly demonstrated her ability to grasp procedures, make positive suggestions for change and assist in the retention of students attending the college. She is also an active member of the Junior League of Pensacola.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Beaches, 2) Small town atmosphere with southern hospitality, 3) The number of people involved in the community and the impact they make
What would you like to see in the next five years: More collaboration between the community and education at all levels
SHARON OBERTO, 26
Development Specialist, Northwest Florida Blood Services Foundation
Why nominated: Sharon spearheaded the Gift of Life Gala, a major fundraising activity for the Northwest Florida Blood Services organization. She is also the recording secretary of the Foundation Board of the Northwest Florida Blood Services organization. She continuously provides enthusiastic and creative new ideas to improve the services provided by the Northwest Florida Blood Services.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Beautiful weather and beaches, 2) The friendliness of the people here, 3) A small town atmosphere
What would you like to see in the next five years: A significant growth in the economy and job market
CARRIE C. SWILLEY, 32
Manager, Milton
Gulf Power Company
Why nominated: Her commitment to community speaks for itself not only from the list of organizations and activities she is engaged in, but also in her compassion for others. What stands out most to me and why she is most deserving of this recognition, is her ability to lead others to get involved and make a difference through her encouraging nature. It’s infectious and if you come in contact with her, you will catch it too.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Location to Gulf of Mexico, 2) Educational System in Santa Rosa County, 3) Colleges
What would you like to see in the next five years: Maritime Park
JAMES F. TURNER, JR., 28
Senior Attorney, Guardian ad Litem Program;
Chairman, First Congressional District Committee, Florida Democratic Party
Why nominated: As an attorney for our program, James is responsible for advocating for the best interests of abused, neglected and abandoned children involved in the court system. He continues to go above and beyond his duties as an attorney. James epitomizes a rising star.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The amazing scenery, from the scenic bluffs to the white sand beaches, 2) The small town atmosphere coupled with the overwhelming sense of community, 3) The local history and our strong military heritage
What would you like to see in the next five years: Pensacola attracting more industry and business to the area so that we can keep the young, talented people who already reside here.
KRIS THOMA, 25
Marketing and Communications Director, United Way of Escambia County
Why nominated: Her enthusiasm and passion make a difference around everyone she comes into contact with. She is the volunteer coordinator at the Currie House, a short-term, residential shelter for runaways and troubled youth and gives two hours each Tuesday for game night at the Currie House. Kris is active on so many fronts in the community and gives 100 percent every day. She sees her job as a way to change Pensacola for the better.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) The people, 2) Beaches/weather, 3) Proximity to major cities in the Southeast
What would you like to see in the next five years: All citizens concerned about the environment and taking action, including increased use of public transportation, carpooling, and walking/cycling, and 100 percent participation in recycling programs
BENJAMIN JAMES STEVENSON, 34
Staff Attorney, American Civil Liberties Union Foundation of Florida, Inc.
Why nominated: Benjamin is an attorney for the ACLU of Florida Northwest Regional Office. To that end he works to protect the individual freedoms guaranteed to us by the Constitution and Bill of Rights. He is an amazing person, firm in his convictions and fearless in his pursuit of fair treatment for all. Benjamin is a member of the Pensacola Young Professionals and is on the Board of Directors for the Arts Council.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Friendly and welcoming people, 2) Beach and outdoor activities, 3) Advantages of a city without the traffic problems
What would you like to see in the next five years: A greater selection of independently owned restaurants, especially more international cuisine and creative chefs
CAROLYN RICHARDSON WARD, 25
Attorney, Clark, Partington, Hart, Larry, Bond & Stackhouse
Why nominated: Carolyn is originally from Pensacola, and with her academic background could have gone anywhere. But she decided to return to Pensacola, and we are thrilled that she joined us. She is active in various groups and efforts in the community and is currently one of the principal actors in the “Leading Ladies” play at the PLT. She is committed to becoming more and more involved in the community as she gets more of her legal career under her belt.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Great People, 2) Arts and Culture, 3) Great location
What would you like to see in the next five years: Continued downtown growth and revitalization.
PHILLIP WARREN, 34
Partner, Taylor, Warren & Weidner, P.A.
Why nominated: Phillip is most definitely qualified for the honor. He goes above and beyond in preparing himself to meet the opposition. He is very professional in both the manner in which he handles himself and addresses others and always maintains a positive “will win” attitude. Phillip has the drive to be very successful in his profession and is a great asset to our community.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Natural beauty of our beaches and many waterways, 2) Hospitality of the people, 3) Potential that our community possesses
What would you like to see in the next five years: Economic development
JAYER WILLIAMSON, 29
Electrical Contractor, Williamson Electrical Co.
Why nominated: Jayer runs a family business and comes from a long history of dedicated public servants, aiming to honor his roots through a commitment to unite fellow young professionals, while promoting community involvement, to ensure Santa Rosa continues to be a great place to live and work.
Three best reasons to live here: 1) Rich history combined with southern charm, 2) Waterways from the Blackwater River to the Gulf of Mexico, 3) Perfect place to raise a family
What would you like to see in the next five years: A contract bringing an automobile, aerospace or wind/water turbine production plant to our region. Or something Technology/Information-based that will bring new jobs to Northwest Florida.