PENSACOLA what sets us apart?
What sets the Pensacola area apart from other places? That’s the question we asked Bella readers this month. Why choose to live and raise a family in Northwest Florida when you can do that anywhere?
I was raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, and went to high school in Lakeland, Florida. I have visited all over the state of Florida on mini staycations for decades and ended up settling here in Pensacola. I immediately fell in love with Pensacola for its beautiful, white, sandy, snow-like beaches. Pensacola ended up being a great place to raise a family as it is well known for its outdoor activities, such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, etc. Pensacola is also rich in history, and many are surprised to find out that this was the America’s first settlement. Pensacola has such a unique southern charm that sets it apart from any other place.
— Jacqueline Cox, sales consultant, Quality Roofing
Pensacola has a community that is very generous with their time, talents and treasures. All these areas provide opportunities to people with disabilities to make choices in leading the highest quality of independent living that they so choose in the community.
— Carolyn Grawi, executive director, Center for Independent Living of Northwest Florida
As a Pensacola native, I have enjoyed seeing this community evolve and continue its growth to meet the citizens’ needs. It’s great to see businesses, churches, government, nonprofits and school districts working together to help citizens in the community to be successful. It’s an awesome place to raise a family. There are always festivals, family friendly community events, museums, sports and more for all ages to enjoy. I’m happy to say, I work somewhere where I feel heard, have flexibility and it is a great work environment. Pensacola provides some wonderful eateries such as George Bistro, Ruby Slipper, Angelena’s, 1216 North/East King’s Corner Cafe and Five Sisters, just to name a few. Pensacola Beach minutes away, water parks in surrounding areas and Downtown Pensacola — this area is a great place to live, work and play.
— Chuntell Patterson, community engagement specialist, Children’s Home Society of Florida
