Rick's Podcasts Rick Outzen

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Orlando Navedo as the recipient of the 2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year award. This prestigious accolade is awarded to a Big who has made an exceptional impact on their Little's life.Orlando, a Defense Paralegal for the U.S. Navy, has been a dedicated mentor to his Little Brother Bryan since they were first matched in February 2023. The two immediately bonded, and Bryan expressed a desire to enhance his basketball skills. Orlando wholeheartedly embraced this goal, fostering their relationship through regular outings to the YMCA for basketball practice, as well as attending Bryan's games and end-of-season banquet. They have also enjoyed many meals together, further strengthening their bond.Orlando is not only a consistent and supportive Big, but he's also a passionate advocate for Big Brothers Big Sisters. He and Bryan frequently participate in agency events and were prominently featured in our annual impact video for the 2024 Big Gala: Cosmic Connections, where they shared what makes their relationship special. They also participated in the Big Gala, enthusiastically embracing the event's space theme and warmly engaging with attendees.Orlando exemplifies the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, as well as the spirit of Lt. Ronald Joseph Mobayed, this award's namesake. Lt. Mobayed was an outstanding Big Brother while he was stationed in Pensacola for flight training in the early 1990’s. Tragically, on October 3, 1995, Ron and his crew were killed in the line of duty while responding to a distress signal. This award honors our military volunteers and is given to a Big who demonstrates the same commitment to their Little, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the children of our community.Orlando's colleagues collaborated with our staff to surprise Orlando with the award during a ceremony at the National Museum of Naval Aviation aboard NAS Pensacola. During the ceremony, Bryan shared his heartfelt thoughts about his Big Brother: "Orlando, out of all the matches, I was blessed with you. When we first met I was nervous, but now I feel like a brother to you. You helped me find who I really am and you inspire me in so many ways. One special way you inspire me is to do and try new things. To the best Big, my Big Brother Orlando."

Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh discusses the latest offer of OLF-8 for $36 million, which includes donating part of the site to the Escambia County School District. He also touches on putting a sheriff's substation and meeting room at the Equestrian Center.  

Lisa Newell, owner of the Gulf Breeze News and Splash Magazine, is running for the Florida Senate District  1 seat as a Democrat. Newell, a Florida resident since she was 16, believes that new voices and directions are needed in the political landscape, which has been dominated by uncontested races. She plans to challenge Republican Don Gaetz. Newell has identified several key issues, including Florida's insurance crisis, the GOP's supermajority in the legislature, and low teacher pay.

Small business owner and former Gulf Breeze teacher Kim Kline is running for running without party affiliation for the Florida House District 2 seat, currently held by Republican Alex Andrade. 

Rick talks with Sena Maddison, Peter Walker Wilson, Peter Charalambous, Jason Nathanson, Quint Studer, Darien Schaefer, and Bethanne Edwards.

Innisfree Hotels Sustainability Director Bethanne Edwards discusses 2024 Sea Turtle Bay shower, where more than 20 organizations will partner for a hands-on educational event celebrating sea turtles 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 1 at Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach.