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DOWNTOWN CROWD SEPTEMBER 2020
Editor’s Letter
Publisher Malcolm Ballinger Owners Malcolm & Glenys Ballinger Executive Editor Kelly Oden
Gina Castro, Editor
Editor Gina Castro Art Director Guy Stevens Graphic Designer Garrett Hallbauer Editorial Assistant Dakota Parks Advertising Account Executives Paula Rode Paula@ballingerpublishing.com Geneva Strange Geneva@ballingerpublishing.com Becky Hildebrand becky@ballingerpublishing.com For advertising rates or news tips contact Phone: 433-1166 · Fax: 435-9174 DOWNTOWN CROWD is published by Ballinger Publishing. Offices located at 314 N Spring St., Ste. A, Pensacola Florida 32501 Published by Ballinger Publishing
Downtown Crowd is locally owned and operated. It is published monthly for distribution in Pensacola, Florida. All Right Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing. © 2020
This month is National Hispanic Heritage Month. For some reason many people believe that “hispanic” is an umbrella term for all Latinos. It’s not. The word "Hispanic" was created by the U.S. Government for the 1970 Census. Before this change, the only option the Census gave Latinos was Mexican, which was even more limiting. "Hispanic" is based solely on the connection to Spain, which is the European country that conquered Indigenous people's land. Although Spain brought the Spanish language and Spain’s culture to these countries, there is much more to them than the country that conquered them. In short, “Hispanic” embodies only the European country and discredits the culture that was native to the lands before it was stolen by its colonizers. Countries like Mexico, Brazil and Cuba weren’t blank, empty countries before Spain arrived. These countries were filled with tribes, traditions and languages that later combined with Spain’s language and culture. Latinos, or recently, Latinx are the most inclusive terms I've come across. Latinx includes
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the Indigenous, African and Spanish background as well as all genders. But self-identity is crucial. So, be sure to actually ask your friends how they want to refer to their ethnicity. Because of this understanding, many latinos are renaming the month Latinx Heritage Month.
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Now that my history lesson is out of the way —the rest of this issue is jam packed with opportunities to learn, too. We collected a round up of online classes and discussion groups you use to learn a new skill or connect with others. Since this month is also National Literacy Month, we took a closer look at the city’s Little Free Libraries.
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The Military Matters section features a servicemember’s first hand experience with managing PTSD. Do you want to contribute to the conversation? Follow us on social media @DowntownCrowd.
G. Castro
18 7 5 Questions with Creatives
17 Respect the Language
8 Little Free Libraries
18 Hope & Healing
12 Explore Virtual Learning
20 Military Matters
ON THE COVER – Design by Garrett Hallbauer
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MIKE DOLLEN CMDCM USN (Ret.) | REALTOR ® Designated Military Relocation Professional and Florida Military Specialist
850.207.1191 4475 Bayou Blvd, Pensacola mike.dollen@floridamoves.com
I specialize in military relocations and proudly serve our military community.
These hands once trembled with fear and uncertainty. Now, they’re holding on to brighter days. These hands once trembled with fear and uncertainty. Now, they’re holding on to brighter days.
We are a non-profit, faith-centered ministry offering food, addiction recovery services, housing, spiritual guidance and more to Escambia County’s most vulnerable and under-resourced residents. We are a non-profit, faith-centered ministry offering food, addiction recovery services, housing, spiritual guidance and more to Escambia County’s most vulnerable and under-resourced residents.
850.912.8383 • BrightBridgeMinistries.org
5 QUES TIONS WITH
CREATIVES E MILY BAIL LY BY DAKOTA PA R KS
Armed with her controller and a friend on lookout for birds and power lines, Emily Bailly, a local drone pilot and photographer scours the skies around Pensacola looking for the perfect shot. Bailly grew up in Milton and has been a hairdresser for 11 years. Looking for a creative outlet outside of the salon, she dabbled with traditional photographic methods before finding her niche in aerial drone photography. As a travel enthusiast, visiting around 30 countries, Bailly was always drawn to travel videos with aerial footage. A year later after biting the bullet and buying her first drone, she is FAA 107 certified, fills her free time with drone work and exploring the Panhandle for new areas to photograph. Keep up with her on Instagram @thedroneprincess. What kind of work have you done as a drone pilot? The FAA 107 certification allows me to legally do commercial drone work. Hobbyists can fly drones for fun but can’t legally charge money. Now that I’m certified, I’ve done weddings and real estate photos and videos. I recently worked with two ground photographers and did the videography for the Pensacola RV Resort. Last week, I was in Colorado up on a mountain and randomly met these people that wanted their photo taken with the drone. It was a beautiful location and they paid me right there on the spot. Your photos all have a natural element to them. How do you choose where you’re going to photograph? It’s funny actually—before bed, I look at Google Maps pretty much every night. I know that sounds so nerdy, but I look at the maps and wonder ‘what would this look like from the sky?’ It’s like a top down perspective. One of my favorite locations is the abandoned Escambia River boats that have been
there since Hurricane Ivan just deteriorating. Once I find out that a spot isn’t located in restricted airways, a friend and I will kayak out to them so I can photograph. It’s like a treasure hunt. You’re not supposed to fly over crowds or anything like that, so locations can be limited. But nature is readily available, and you can’t beat the beauty of the Panhandle waterways. What are some of the biggest obstacles and technical details that come with flying drones? Power lines, birds, lighting. No one realizes how many things there are to crash into up in the sky. On the weekends, I will wake up at 4 am to go film because sunrise and sunset lighting is always the best. Everything revolves around my drone now. I first taught myself how to use the drone through YouTube videos, then I took a photo tour class up in Raleigh, North Carolina. The instructors actually teach for DJI, the company that makes my drone. I also hired a mentor on Instagram to teach me more about editing and settings. Another detail is that you don’t know what you have until
you get home. The drones have a cache so you can see the image but it's like a grainy, poor quality version of that. So, you can see what you’re doing, but you don’t really know what your photos and videos look like until you upload them to your computer. Tell me about crashing your drone—what is that experience like? I’ve hit a light pole one time. There are also geofences up in the sky around businesses and airports that you can’t actually see, but it causes a drone to automatically land. I had to wade through a swampy sewer line with my dad to retrieve my drone one time. The craziest experience was in Colorado. My friend and I were fly fishing and she hooked my drone with her fishing pole
and pulled it down into the water then out like a giant fish. We kind of did CPR. We pulled it out of the water, dried everything off, freaked out a little bit and prayed for the best. It’s nerve wracking because even though my drones are insured through State Farm, you never know what’s covered, and that was two thousand dollars in the water.
What is your biggest goal with your photography? I think one of my biggest goals is getting the word out about women creatives in this industry. It's such a male dominated industry. But it's so much fun, and I need more girlfriends to do this with. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 7
Little Free
Libraries: Grassroots Community Literacy
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1911 E La Rua St. Around 2014, Carolyn Appleyard heard about LFL on Facebook and set out to help bring them to Pensacola. After speaking with local government about building them in parks and making sure the city was aware of the project, she and a group of friends spread the message. She even helped start the Facebook page “Pensacola Little Free Libraries” to help people connect and showcase new libraries. “It's been one of the easiest community projects I've ever been involved in because it is so grassroots and the cost is nominal,” Appleyard explained. “It’s amazing how self-sustaining 8 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
story & photos by Dakota Parks
n 2009, the national nonprofit organization Little Free Libraries (LFL) was formed to showcase community book exchanges. They quickly spread like wildfire as book lovers, schools, community centers and homeowners decided to build them. People embraced the idea of increasing community literacy, spreading the joy of books and even providing books to children and people in need. After building a library, people can register them on the national library website to become an LFL steward, receive a plaque for their library and add the address to the website map. It’s hard to miss the libraries driving around Pensacola now as dozens exist within walking distance. To celebrate September’s National Literacy Month, we decided to track down some libraries and talk to library stewards about them.
they are. Mine is almost always full, and I notice the books are constantly changing too. One of my favorite things is seeing delivery drivers drop off a package and go check out the library to take a book. It just makes me happy. It’s been a great resource for neighbors too that are looking for something safe to do during COVID.” Appleyard’s first library was created by repurposing an old metal newspaper box. Libraries can be built economically using a wide variety of resources. After hearing about LFL on an NPR segment in 2014, Lisa Common set out to build her
library at 1728 North 13th Avenue using recycled wood from bookshelves, cabinets and home improvement projects. “We had a bunch of scrap wood we were getting rid of, and I thought it would be perfect for the library. They’re easy to build and they don’t have to be fancy. I decorated the library using old buttons that I collect,” Common said. “I’ve met a lot of people through the library. If it ever gets low on books, I’ll go by a book sale or a thrift store to stock up. Sometimes people leave bags of books on my porch for it.”
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It’s been one of the easiest community projects I’ve ever been involved in because it is so grassroots and the cost is nominal.”
Artists around Pensacola have also been commissioned to create libraries. When Melissa Welch moved out of a condo into a house, she knew she wanted to build a library. It wasn’t until she befriended local ceramic artists Peter King and his wife Xinia Marín that she commissioned them to build her library at 1716 E Hernandez Street. Made out of 100 percent locally sourced clay and hand carved over a four-month period, the library is adorned with intimate details special to Welch and features a small house sitting atop a stack of books.
art, jewelry and even children’s toys. Many libraries around Pensacola are dedicated specifically to providing children’s books to the community. Vicki Pugh, the program improvement director for the Early Learning Coalition of Escambia County has played a big role in providing children’s books to LFLs.
if you look on the back of it,” Welch explained. “It was their idea to build a stack of books as the base to the library. It became really special because I asked my boyfriend, friends and family for a list of their top three favorite books, then I chose from them to title the books on the library. I’ve actually read them all too.”
“I just wanted it to be colorful. I told them a few details I wanted. I’m a cyclist, so I wanted a bicycle on it. I also wanted there to be a hidden ‘Despicable Me’ minion on it, which you can find
Welch explained that people also leave other things in her library: canned food, small works of
“The coalition is a workforce agency with a heavy emphasis on early education and care,” Pugh said. “We not only take care of children, but we also get them socially and emotionally ready and assist with pre-emergent literacy, math skills and some science skills to get them ready for school. So, the agency oversees school readiness, which is a subsidy program and voluntary pre-K. We distribute free books to the community over summer break, including local LFLs.”
1716 E Hernandez St. Lisa Common’s library, built out of recycled wood and decorated with a collage of buttons
1728 N 13th Ave.
Melissa Welch’s library, handmade and designed by local ceramic artists Peter King and his wife Xinia Marín
DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 9
1219 N 19th Ave. Anyone that is interested in stocking their library with children’s books may call Pugh at 850-6078547 to set an appointment to pick up books. Most of the books they provide are for ages birth to five years old. Local public libraries are also an invaluable community resource. Library cards are free to county residents. Both the Santa Rosa Public Library and the West Florida Public Library systems offer a wide variety of book clubs for children, young adults and adults—many of which are open to online platforms for social distancing measures.
1218 N 17th Ave. 2041 N 20th Ave.
Mcllwain Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1220 E Blount St.
North Hill Preservation Association, 401 W Gonzalez St. 1625 E Maxwell St.
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I’ve met a lot of people through the library. If it ever gets low on books, I’ll go by a book sale or a thrift store to stock up. Sometimes people leave bags of books on my porch for it.” N 12th Ave. and E Bobe St. 10 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
– OFF RUNWAY – presented by the Women’s Board of Baptist Health Care Foundation
44 th Annual Fashion Show October 29, 2020 6 p.m. Virtual Program, Silent Auction and Fashion Show Fashions provided by Bluetique, Jennie Barrow Independent cabi Stylist, The Market & Mainly Shoes and The South Outfitters Proceeds from this year’s event will support Baptist Health Care’s COVID-19 Response Fund. Your gift will allow us to provide emergency funding to support the highest-priority COVID-19 response efforts.
SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE For sponsorship information, visit BaptistHealthCareFoundation.org or call 850.469.7906.
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 1.800.435.8352 OR BY VISITING WWW.FRESHFROMFLORIDA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION #CH606.
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B e t w e e n t h e h o r r ib le g r a p h ic s a n d o b n o x io u s c h a t r o o m s , t h e I n t e r n e t i n t h e 9 0 s d i d n ’t s e e m p r o m is in g . F la s h fo r w a r d t o n o w , t h e In t e r n e t i s w h a t ’s h o l d i n g u s t o g e t h e r . A n d C O V ID -1 9 h a s o n ly in c r e a s e d o u r n e e d f o r t h e In t e r n e t . F r e q u e n t v is it s t o g r a n d m a h a v e b e c o m e v id e o c h a t s . N e t w o r k in g a t la r g e c o n v e n t io n s h a v e b e c o m e s e n d in g p r iv a t e o n lin e m e s s a g e s . E v e n t h o u g h w e a r e c o n s t a n t ly a d ju s t in g a n d t h e n r e a d ju s t in g t o o u r w o r ld ’s n e w n o r m a l, t h e r e is o n e t h in g t h a t w e k n o w f o r c e r t a in . T h e I n t e r n e t is h e r e t o s t a y . T h e In t e r n e t ’s p o s s ib ilit ie s a r e e n d le s s . S in c e a lo t o f u s a r e s t a y in g h o m e m o r e o f t e n , y o u c o u ld u s e t h is t im e t o le a r n s o m e t h in g n e w . W e r o u n d e d u p o n lin e d is c u s s io n s , e v e n t s a n d c la s s e s h o s t e d b y lo c a l p e o p le . S o y o u ’ll s t a y s h a r p a n d c o n n e c t e d o n c e C O V ID -1 9 is b e h in d u s . S e e s o m e t h in g w e s h o u ld a d d t o t h e lis t ? S e n d u s a m e s s a g e o n s o c ia l m e d ia @ D o w n t o w n C r o w d .
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Based out of the historic Belmont-DeVilliers District, the Kukua Institute is a place to share the cultural, intellectual and economic abilities and contributions of African Americans. The Institute is currently running two online discussions. Pared Pairings: Uncovering Conversations is a monthly series that features conversations around a single focus of art, history, science or technology. The series is hosted by Kylara Sampson, a makeup artist who comes from a family of talkers. Each month two special guests, who are experienced on the month’s subject, have a discussion with no filters, no rules and no boundaries to where it can go. Through Pared Pairings, you can learn about art and its impact on transformative change in human spoken word artist Quincy Hull and professor Mark Hopkins. You can even join in on the conversation. The next Pared Pairings is Sept. 15 at 6 pm. The other online discussion Kukua is hosting is Startups on the Blocks. This is a network platform that seeks to empower founders of color with the knowledge to turn their ideas into products and services. Startups on the Blocks features local, state, regional, national, and global entrepreneurial ecosystems that can support entrepreneurs through mentorship, best practice training, networking, office space and funding resources. This discussion is weekly. Visit Kukua Institute on Facebook for more information.
Crank Up the Confidence: Connections and Tactics for Success
COVID-19 has business owners across the globe feeling off their A game, and Pensacola isn’t an anomaly. Crank Up the Confidence: Connections and Tactics for Success is an online event. The goal of this event is to empower, connect and grow businesses in the Pensacola area. The speakers include experts in banking, accounting, operations and legal assistance. The purpose of this event is to provide entrepreneurs and business leaders of all levels with the tools they need to solve common issues. Some of the topics this event will discuss are opportunities for innovation, working with banks and networking. This event hopes to show you the possibilities of your business while giving you the confidence to pursue them. The hosts of this event are Studer Community Institute, Warren Averett, LLC, The Spring Entrepreneur Hub and Clark Partington Attorneys at Law. General admission for this online discussion is $49.00, but there is a free option if you qualify for the Angel Assistance Application. This event is Sept. 9 at 9 am. Visit Studer Community Institute for more information.
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One way many businesses navigated the COVID-19 storm was by developing an online presence. Juggling several social media apps while managing a website is tough. But you’re in luck. Social ICON’s weekly Virtual Event Software Demo + Q&A was created to help you with that exact issue. Social ICON is a full-service strategic marketing agency. Wavering the world of creative branding and messaging is its bread and butter. Each week Social ICON and its Creative Director, Lindsey Castor, discuss how businesses can benefit from hosting online events. After the discussion, the virtual audience is able to ask questions. Admission is free. The next event is Sept. 10 at 10 am. Visit Social ICON on Facebook for more information. _
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There are endless resources available about how to do business on a national level, but the list gets smaller when you look for state and city level resources. If there is anyone who could possibly know how to run a business in Pensacola, it’s the people who currently run a business in Pensacola. The Facebook group “We Support Black Business!!” is focused on supporting Pensacola’s black business owners. Every Sunday, this page and Moni Ase host an online Black Business Roundtable. This event is an opportunity for local business owners to learn from others, discuss common issues and network. All voices are welcome. The next event is Sept. 13 at 4 pm. Visit the “We Support Black Business!!” Facebook group for more information.
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Pensacola Little Theatre
Calling all writers! If you’re looking to test your script on a captivated audience, then you have to try Scripteasers. This online event hosted by Pensacola Little Theatre can be your opportunity to see your script come to life and get feedback from the audience. During this event, the virtual audience will read and act out scripts that are submitted by participants. If writing isn’t your style, you can still participate. Scripteasers needs lively people who enjoy reading out loud and getting into character. But, of course, there is always the option to just sit back and enjoy the show. This engaging night of theatre occurs at 6:30 on Tuesday nights each month. The next event is Sept. 1 but there’s another on Sept. 29. For more information, visit Pensacola Little Theatre on Facebook.
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Did you know looking at art can help your brain? It’s true. Viewing, analyzing and creating art stimulates the brain in substantial and long-lasting ways. Gazing at a gorgeous painting, sculpture or other artwork increases blood flow to the brain by as much as 10 percent. The Pensacola Museum of Art has several art exhibits available online, including Poppy Garcia’s Bless Your Heart. The PMA also offers ways to experience the museum from home. Through Collection Uncorked, you can learn more about PMA’s permanent collection through curated wine and art pairings. Chief Curator, Anna Wall, and Certified Specialist of Wine, Hilary Shaffer, selected wines based off of its flavor profile and origins so that the drink complemented the art, artist or subject matter. Inside this limited edition curated collection, you’ll find three wines, reproductions of the works of art along with narratives to guide you. This experience will show you PMA through another lens and expose you to some exciting new wines. This program is available each week. Each wine box is $65, and the pick up location is at Pot Roast & Pinot. Proceeds from this program will be used to help support PMA’s educational initiatives and exhibitions. The museum also offers several at-home art activities. To learn more about the PMA, visit pensacolamusuem.org. 14 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
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Keeping up with local government just got easier. Watch meetings online.
Downtown Improvement Board Fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 am. Visit DIB on Facebook for Zoom link.
Facebook Live Q & A with Mayor Grover Robinson Every Wednesday at 11:30 am.
Escambia County Meetings Visit myescambia.com/opengovernment/meetings to keep up with meetings like the Board of County Commissioners.
City of Pensacola Meetings Visit cityofpensacola.com/428/ Live-Meeting-Video to watch meetings like the City Council.
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Talk & Text at 437-1620 Online at NewsRadio923.com On Alexa & Google Home
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AN ENTERPRISE OF THE ARC GATEWAY
T arragona S treet
How to Pronounce Pensacola’s Spanish Street Names by G ina C astro When you drive around Pensacola, you’ll notice “first city” written all over: First City Art Center, First City Church, First City Beauty. The list goes on. Pensacola was first settled by Spain in 1559, making it six years older than St. Augustine. Since then, many businesses have rebranded to show their pride for being the first city. Pensacola was under Spanish rule three times 1559–1719, 1722–1763 and 1781–1819. Much of the Spanish language still plays a role in the city’s street names and landmarks. Through the years, Pensacolians began to Americanize these Spanish words to a point that the names sound English. Although the majority of Pensacolians are unaware of this, turning Spanish words English is offensive to the Latino community. It can be viewed as an erasure of the Spanish language. A first step to understanding another culture is respecting their language. In honor of Latinx Heritage Month, Downtown Crowd collected the correct pronunciation of five common streets in Pensacola.
B arcelona S treet BAR-SE-LONA | BAR-TH-LO-NA
This street was named after the fifth most populous urban area in the European Union: Barcelona. Barcelona Street is in between West Romana Street and South Spring Street. The pronunciation of Barcelona depends on the region and Spanish dialect. Since the name of this city originated in Spain, this article references how the dialects in Spain pronounce “Barcelona.” In Castellano Spanish, Peninsular Spanish spoken in northern and central Spain, the “c” in “Barcelona” is pronounced as “th.” However, in Catalonia, the northeastern corner of Spain where they speak the Spanish dialect Catalan, the “c” is pronounced as an “s.” Since the city of Barcelona is located in Catalonia, the most correct pronunciation is most likely Catalonia’s, but both pronunciations are correct.
TER-RAH-GON-AH
This street is named after a city in Spain with the same name. Tarragona, Spain, was founded before the 5th century BC. It’s also a port city located in northeast Spain. Just like its predecessor, Pensacola’s Tarragona Street is north of the Port of Pensacola. The street is on the 1812 Pintado plan, where it is labelled Calle de Tarragona. The Pintado plan is a street map. It was drawn in 1812 by Vicente Sebastián Pintado, a Surveyor General of Spanish West Florida. The Pintado plan also includes Alcaniz, Romana and Intendencia streets, to name a few.
G onzález S treet GOHN-SAH-LEHS
This street was named after Don Manuel González. In 1784, González joined the Spanish army and sailed off to explore the New World. He moved up the ranks and became Brigadier General. Through honors granted by the Spanish Crown, González acquired a large amount of land in Pensacola. He later became a cattle rancher and donated the land for the Plaza Ferdinand VII. The Pensacola Gazette described his funeral in 1838 as well attended. Pensacola’s González Street was named after him. González Street runs parallel to Cervantes Street.
Z aragoza S treet SAH-RAH-GOH-SAH
In 1808, the French controlled much of Spain. Spanish leaders formed militias to push the French out of Spain. Jose Palafox, also known as General Palafox, led a successful attack driving the invaders away from Spain’s Zaragoza Province. Word of Palafox’s strike quickly spread to the Spanish council in Pensacola. The council then renamed two streets to honor that event: Palafox Street and Zaragoza Street. Those names have remained a part of Pensacola for 212 years. Although Pensacolians often pronounce Palafox correctly, they have trouble with Zaragoza. Some businesses on Zaragoza Street spell the name “Zarragossa,” but the street sign itself is spelled “Zaragoza,” which is how Spain spells it. There is an English spelling of the word: Saragossa. Since Pensacola spells it as it is spelled in the Spanish language, the word should be pronounced in Spanish.
C ervantes S treet SEHR-BAHN-TES Cervantes Street is probably the most widely used street in downtown Pensacola. All Pensacolians know Cervantes Street, yet the majority can't pronounce it. Correctly, at least. “Cervantes” is not an English word. In fact, it’s a very popular Spanish surname. Cervantes Street was named after Miguel de Cervantes. He is known as the greatest writer in the Spanish language. Miguel de Cervantes penned Don Quixote, which is often cited as the first modern novel.
DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 17
of the budget: Brunch & Bubbles and Chocolate Fest, hosted by GCKH, and the Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival hosted by Northeast Pensacola Sertoma Club. Brunch & Bubbles is a 300-person event that takes place at Portofino pool deck, Chocolate Fest is a 2,000-person event that takes place at Cordova Mall and Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival, hosted at Bayview Park and can yield up to 8,000 spectators and participants. Public Relations and Events Manager, Bradley Sanders explained the importance of these events and the campaign.
Hope & Healing
A Campaign to Support Gulf Coast Kid’s House
B
by Dakota Parks
etween the closures, cancellations and social distancing, COVID-19 has been tough on everyone—child advocacy centers (CACs) are no exception. Since 1998, Gulf Coast Kid’s House (GCKH) has been providing the community child abuse education and prevention. GCKH combines all of the professionals and resources needed for the intervention, investigation and 18 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
prosecution of child abuse cases under one collaborative roof. Due to COVID-19, all fundraising events in 2020 to raise money for GCKH have been cancelled, prompting the pressing need for the Hope & Healing Campaign. A large portion of the budget for GCKH comes from charitable donations and fundraising. Three events make up a notable portion
at the facility are safe. Funds raised by the Hope & Healing Campaign will help the Child Protection Team that GCKH employs across four counties at three other CACs including Santa Rosa Kids House and the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Centers located in Defuniak Springs and Niceville. “The campaign will also help fund virtual child abuse education. We partnered with the Escambia County School District to teach every student K through 12 about human trafficking.” Sanders said. “Human trafficking is child abuse. The Prevention Team has been using programs from the Monique Burr Foundation to teach children at school assemblies, which can no longer happen. Now, we have to go virtual this year.”
“There is no way to host events of those size right now, but our job doesn’t stop during a pandemic. We still provide services to over 3,000 children a year. In Escambia County one in ten children are experiencing abuse,” Sanders said. “When a child comes to our facility, they're usually brought by law enforcement or Department of Children and Families and they’re taken for a one-time recorded interview by the Child Protection Team. That’s really Advocates participating in National Wear Blue Day important because no victims should have to retell their stories more than once This won’t be the first time GCKH and relieve traumas or forget imhas gone virtual for child abuse portant details.” education. During COVID-19, they switched gears to create educaAs Sander’s explained, the GCKH tional children’s videos on Youteam responded quickly to the deTube aimed at core age groups. mands of COVID-19 by securing Their virtual adult training prevenample personal protective equiption module, Safe Kid Zone, creatment and updating protocols to ed in partnership with Leadership ensure medical staff and children Pensacola’s Class of 2019 goes
Graffiti Bridge painted for April’s National Child Abuse Prevention Month Gulf Coast Kid’s House annual fundraiser, Chocolate Fest, at Cordova Mall
further in-depth to teach people how to recognize, report and reduce child abuse. “Safe Kid Zone is meant to teach the tipping point, which is defined as the number of people that need to learn something to enact societal change. In Escambia County, we’re striving for 10 percent of the population, which would be 30,000 people,” Sanders explained. “Education is key to prevention because in order to stop something, you have to educate people on it. And in 20 years from now, if all this teaching has paid off and we have parents who are not abusing their children, then we did our job.” To donate to the campaign, businesses and individuals can visit gulfcoastkidshouse.org and find the Hope & Healing Campaign link
Dragon boat team from the 2018 Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival
on the main page. For those that cannot afford to donate, Sanders explained that taking the Safe Kid Zone training and sharing the campaign on social media is a great way to get involved. “By becoming an advocate and learning more about child abuse, you benefit every child in your life and your community,” Sanders said. “Every Florida resident is a mandated child abuse reporter. It’s your duty by law to report it. My advice to all adults right now is to check in on the children in your life. Even if it’s just a simple phone call, you might notice a difference. Families are more stressed than ever right now. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and like I always say, children are our future, so we have to protect them.”
The number to report child abuse in Florida is 1-800-96-ABUSE.
DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 19
MILITARYMATTERS AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION
NAVY WOUNDED WARRIOR ENROLLEE SHARES PTSD JOURNEY by Shannon Revelle June is PTSD awareness month and to bring awareness, Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Tiffany Hamilton shares her personal story. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health disorder that develops after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault. “These invisible wounds present unique challenges for those affected but we are here to assist recovering service members navigate these unchartered waters,” said Lisa Sexauer, director of Commander Navy Installations Command’s Navy Wounded Warrior program. “More importantly, we assist them with mapping out a plan for their future which is critical to alleviating the stress of the unknown.”
Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Tiffany Hamilton
20 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
Diagnosed with PTSD in 2017, Hamilton enrolled in the Navy Wounded Warrior Program. She credits the program for its instru-
mental and life-changing effect in her recovery process. “When I was diagnosed, I was in a dark place both mentally and physically,” Hamilton recalled. “I was extremely nervous about my transition, especially being a single mom and a full-time student. I know, without a doubt, I would not have come this far in my recovery process without the assistance from the Navy Wounded Warrior Program. I continue to advocate for our Navy Wounded Warrior Program and I have personally referred 10 Sailors to receive tailored support.” Through the program, CNIC assigns enrollees recovery care coordinators to help wounded ill and injured service members, their caregivers and their families navigate the recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration process. “My recovery care coordinator continually followed up on me and did not allow me to fall through the cracks and isolate myself,” Ham-
MILITARYMATTERS
WHAT IS
PTSD?
Posttraumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health concern that some people develop after they see or experience a traumatic event.
7 to 8%
of the U.S. population will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
Tiffany Hamilton sits at her work desk where she trouble shoots telecommunication issues and provides customer service for NMCSD
ilton said. “I am a natural planner and the comprehensive recovery plan provided by my recovery care coordinator was very beneficial and allowed me to track my progress. My RCC also mentally encouraged me through some really tough times.” Along with the development of a comprehensive recovery plan, recovery care coordinators identify resources needed to achieve goals, such as assistive technology, education, employment or housing. “My recovery care coordinator connected be with valuable resources, such as Operation Homefront and this was one of my greatest blessings,” said Hamilton. “In obtaining transitional housing, I was able to prepare me and my son for our future in ways that I never could have imagined. I am now on my way to a healthy transition from the Navy and I will be attending college classes at Azusa Pacific University in pursuit of employment in the medical field.”
“Thank you to the Navy Wounded Warrior staff for all of their dedication and countless hours researching, following up, contacting, connecting, and assisting wounded warriors.” NWW has enrolled nearly 1,300 service members with a primary diagnosis of PTSD and that number does not account for those who are coping with a secondary diagnosis of PTSD. “Our regional non-medical care management teams work with wounded warriors and their families to identify their goals and develop plans to achieve them, and we view these efforts as essential as the medical aspect of the service member’s recovery,” said Sexauer. “IT2 Hamilton’s story is a great example of how, with the right assistance, success is possible. Bravo Zulu to IT2 and her case management team for meeting the challenge.” For assistance or resources related to PTSD, service members are encour-
What it’s like to have PTSD may be different for everyone. There are four types of PTSD symptoms.
Reliving or re-experiencing the event
Avoidance
■ Nightmares
■ Avoiding crowds
■ Flashbacks
■ Avoiding certain smells,
■ Triggers
■ Avoiding talking or
sights, or sounds
thinking about the event
Hyperarousal or being on guard
Negative changes in beliefs and feelings
■ Being jittery or overly alert
■ Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
■ Difficulty sleeping or
■ Feeling guilty or ashamed
concentrating
■ Unable to trust others
■ Feeling angry or irritable
Do you have PTSD Symptoms? ■ Hear Veterans share their experiences with PTSD and PTSD treatment at AboutFace ■ Learn about and compare effective treatment options using the PTSD Treatment Decision Aid ■ Explore the National Center for PTSD website for information, videos, and tools to help manage PTSD: www.ptsd.va.go
aged to contact National Center for PTSD at (www.ptsd.va.gov). NWW is the Navy’s sole organization for coordinating the nonmedical care of seriously wounded, ill and injured Sailors and Coast Guardsmen, and providing resources and support to their fami-
lies. Through proactive leadership, the program provides individually tailored assistance designed to optimize the success of the wounded warriors’ recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration activities. To learn more, visit www.navywoundedwarrior.com/. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 21
MILITARYMATTERS
NAS PENSACOLA HOSTS COMMUNITY RESPONSE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CEREMONY f rom the US Navy Press Off ice
Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Martin signed a proclamation Oct. 2 at the National Flight Academy onboard NAS Pensacola reaffirming the air station’s commitment to support victims of domestic violence and end family violence in the NAS Pensacola community.
Martin signed the proclamation during the third annual Community Response to Domestic Violence ceremony, an event designed to publicize the annual designation of October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The brief ceremony, attended by nearly 50 individuals representing NAS Pensacola community partners and military leadership, was initiated three years ago and is designed to honor Pensacola-area service members and community members working to support victims of domestic abuse. Thirteen people from six agencies in the community, four service members and one service dog were recognized during the ceremony for their individual contributions to victim care. “Mission readiness is critical, and I believe the individuals recognized here today are aiding us in a critical aspect in not only making [NAS Pensacola] mission ready, but the fleet mission ready,” Martin said. “It is critical that Sailors and their families know and utilize the vast resources and partnerships among the leadership here, the social service agencies, schools, base agencies and law enforcement agencies to help 22 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
them develop a progressive and positive and happy home life. That positivity and happiness at home translates into positivity and happiness here on base. Positivity and happiness promote success, and success is what makes the Navy and its Sailors exceptional.”
Similar proclamations addressing the need to combat domestic violence are being signed throughout Commander, Navy Region Southeast (CNRSE), bringing to light what can be a difficult topic to address. The ceremony also served as a launching pad for NAS Pensacola’s monthlong observance of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an annual observance which grew from a day of unity observation in October 1981 into the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October 1987. The observance is designed to raise domestic violence awareness and inform service members and their spouses about domestic violence prevention efforts and reporting options for victims. Laurie Darmofal, the NAS Pensacola F leet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Family Advocacy Victim Advocate, said that even though significant strides have been taken in curtailing domestic abuse situations, abuse does still occur and can have dramatic impacts. “It is extremely critical to understand that domestic violence and abuse is not just physical, but it often is extremely emotional and mental as well,” she
said. “Domestic violence affects us all, yet it remains a widely taboo subject. This month and this proclamation are critical in bringing the issues to light. If we are to rid ourselves of this terrible plight, we must be willing to address it and talk about it. That is what we are doing here, and it is what we will continue to do.” Darmofal added that the realities of domestic abuse are more widespread than individuals realize; one in three women and one in four men are victims of domestic abuse. She also said that between 1995 and 2001, more than 200 domestic abuse related homicides occurred among military members and their families. “Domestic violence affects us all,” she said. “Mission readiness is jeopardized when domestic violence exists in the home of a Sailor. They may appear physically ready to undertake the mission they are assigned, but internally they are elsewhere, struggling to find a solution to the domestic turmoil at home, and while they may physically be present, mentally they could be adrift.”
Darmofal said the ceremony and proclamation serve to reinforce the Navy’s level of commitment to ending domestic violence in its ranks. “It is on all of us to work for the change we need. Current attitudes and behaviors that allow domestic violence to go unnoticed, unreported and unpunished,” she said. “We should
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5 forms a purple ribbon in support of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class John Paul Curtis
all commit to being part of the solution. We should rededicate ourselves to creating a place where violence is not tolerated, and survivors are supported, and all people are able to pursue their fullest measure of happiness without fear of abuse or assault.” Naval Air Station Pensacola, referred to as the ‘Cradle of Naval Aviation,’ is designed to support operational and training missions of tenant commands, including Naval Aviation Schools Command, the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training, Marine Aviation Training Support Groups 21 and 23 and is the headquarters for Naval Education and Training Command. For more news from Naval Air Station Pensacola, visit www.navy.mil/.
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