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DOWNTOWN CROWD | JANUARY 2025
Morgan Cole, Editor
Happy New Year! I can’t believe it’s already 2025. This year feels like it has come and gone in the blink of an eye.
Although the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is behind us, festive celebrations continue to take over the downtown streets with the official kick-off of the 2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras Season.
With so many new and returning events taking place across the city, this year’s local Mardi Gras season is set to be bigger and better than before! We’ve brought you details on all of the upcoming Mardi Gras happenings, including the return of the Mardi Gras Mambo event featuring Grammy award winning artist Lil Jon. Now in its second year, the Mambo will help kick off the local Mardi Gras season, with a live concert, jazz music, food, drinks, local krewes and more. Check out the story on page 12 for the complete scoop on this year’s Mardi Gras Mambo event, as well as other local Mardi Gras happenings.
This month, we also had the opportunity to catch up with local entrepreneur and business owner, Kylie Manning, to learn more about her and her team’s latest business venture—Good Day, Darling. This quaint neighborhood cafe recently opened its doors in East Hill and dishes up delicious breakfast items, pastries, coffees, fresh-pressed juices, sweets and more. If you were a fan of The Daily Squeeze in East Hill Plaza, you definitely need to check it out. They’ve not only moved into their former space, but they’ve also taken over operations and are continuing their beloved freshpressed juice program!
All this, plus details on Pensacola Opera’s upcoming 42nd Season productions at the Saenger Theatre, an exclusive Q&A with Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale and Joe Hottinger and more.
As always, we hope you enjoy the read and until next time, Cheers!
Happy New Year,
january 4th
starts inside seville quarter then moves outside for blessing of the floats in downtown pensacola
the 2025 pensacola mardi gras season presented by
pensacola bay center
january 11th kick off celebration grand mardi gras parade
tuesday celebration mardi gras mambo
March 1st downtown pensacola march 4th seville quarter
5 Questions with Creatives
Jessica Monroe, The Heirloom Indie
Jessica Monroe is an artist, self-taught metalsmith and the owner of The Heirloom Indie. Monroe’s jewelry pieces are characterized by intricately designed silver and natural stones. With her pieces inspired by Western and Bohemian design, Monroe describes her work as “something you could pull out of your wild grandmother’s jewelry box.”
You can find Monroe’s work online at theheirloomindie.myshopify.com and at the Palafox Market on Saturdays. She also frequently attends markets and art shows throughout the Pensacola area, and posts her market schedule on her Instagram—@theheirloomindie.
DTC: Let’s start with you telling me a little bit about yourself and your professional background.
JM: I am originally from Oregon and absolutely loved my childhood there. My family moved to Pensacola when I was in middle school. I have moved away a few times and I just keep coming back; I love calling Pensacola home. College was not for me, and I decided to become a hairstylist. I craved freedom and creativity and dove headfirst into my life at the salon. I was lucky enough to have incredible mentors and coworkers to help guide and push me to go after my goals. I have applied a lot of what I learned during those years to my own business.
DTC: How did you get interested in creating? What drew you to metalsmithing and jewelry making?
JM: I have always loved creating and the process of creation. I was fortunate to grow up with wonderfully creative grandparents and parents who let me constantly play, participate and experiment. Pair that with my deep love and obsession for jewelry and, well, it just seemed like a no brainer. Originally, this whole journey started as a hobby and something to curb the burnout in my career. I always wanted a real turquoise ring I could wear to work, but I could never find exactly what I
was looking for. So, I decided to get on YouTube, teach myself silversmithing and the rest is history. I made one ring and was hooked—that’s when I thought I could really make something out of this wild idea.
DTC: Tell me a little bit about the different types of pieces you create, and some of your most popular items.
JM: My first love will always be rings. Currently, I can’t stop creating necklaces and earrings with some really great chains, texture and, of course, turquoise. Turquoise and white buffalo stones are my addiction, and what my entire business is built upon. Rings are always a popular request, but right now my most popular items are my turquoise and fringe earrings, as well as chokers and toggle-chain necklaces featuring either turquoise or white buffalo.
DTC: What materials do you primarily use in your pieces?
JM: I use both sterling and fine silver. My stones of choice are Americanmined turquoise and white buffalo. I am passionate about sourcing my materials from within the States. We have incredible turquoise mines in the Southwest. I occasionally use other stones in my jewelry, but I still keep my golden rule and ensure that they are American-mined—it’s just my thing.
by Nicole Willis
DTC: Can you take me through your creative process and describe what goes into creating one of your pieces?
JM: My creative process is purely based on a feeling. Sometimes when I see a stone, I instantly know what it will become. Other times, I’ll hold onto a stone for months or years until it feels like it’s time to incorporate it into a piece. I love one-of-a-kind pieces that evoke a feeling. Sometimes I have an idea of what I want to wear, and I go searching for the proper materials. This process is how the chokers were born; I wanted a turquoise choker with a thick chain, so I made one. Then, I started making small batches and offering them to my community. I like to decide what I want to wear and what feels right. I just ride the wave and mix in some discipline along the way.
Good Day, Darling
Former Magnolia Owners Open New Cafe in East Hill Plaza
by Nicole Willis
What once started as a quaint beverage cart for fueling pilates students has now evolved into East Hill’s newest cafe and brunch spot— Good Day, Darling (GDD).
Though the cafe is new to the East Hill neighborhood, GDD’s roots run deep in the community. The cafe is spearheaded by local entrepreneurs, Bill and Kiley Manning. The couple have spent the past decade establishing some of Pensacola’s beloved community spaces like The Magnolia and Wild Lemon Pilates.
“Bill and I were in our late 20s when we opened our first little neighborhood bar, The Magnolia. We had a ton of fun and learned a lot in the 11 years we were open. Over the course of that time, we opened our two pilates studios (Wild Lemon Pilates) in East Hill, flipped some houses and Bill became a Real Estate Agent at Kuhn Realty,” Kiley explained.
In November 2022, the couple permanently closed The Magnolia to take a break from the restaurant industry to focus on their other businesses and spend time traveling.
Never considering the possibility of getting back into the food and beverage business, the Mannings and their team decided to set up a small beverage cart in front of one of their pilates studio locations to provide pilates students with a quick and healthy drink or snack before and after classes. The team named the small beverage cart “Good Day, Darling,” which made its official debut this past August with the help of cart manager Sara Didlake.
The beverage cart became a huge hit, and it wasn’t long until it had reached its maximum serving capacity. The Manning’s soon realized that their intended break from the food and beverage industry might be ending a little sooner than anticipated. The couple’s small food and beverage cart had quickly grown into a bustling side businesses.
“Two weeks after opening our coffee cart, my friend, Danielle Mullet, shared with me that she was planning to close her business, The Daily Squeeze. I refused to accept that information because I loved The Daily Squeeze and frequented the shop for cold-pressed juice,” Kiley said. “Together, we made a plan to expand the coffee
“It takes a whole lot of people who care a whole lot about what they do to create and cultivate a small business.”
cart into The Daily Squeeze location and take over juicing operations. We suspended operations at the coffee cart to build out the cafe.”
Kiley and her team plan to continue The Daily Squeeze’s cold-pressed juice program and the bottle reuse program, purchasing all of the glass bottles in backstock from The Daily Squeeze. Just five weeks after the team took over operations at The Daily Squeeze, GDD’s first brick-and-mortar cafe celebrated its official opening. The new neighborhood cafe is located in The Daily Squeeze’s former location at 901 N. 12th Ave. in East Hill.
Since opening on November 13, the cafe has been serving up an assortment of delicious bites and specialty crafted beverages. GDD focuses on using only high-quality and fresh ingredients, with menu options ranging from espresso-based drinks, juices and smoothies to sandwiches, salads, pastries and more. A variety of their food and beverage options are made fresh-toorder, with some fresh menu items and drinks already prepared for grab-and-go meals from the “Good To Go” cooler. Fans of The Magnolia will be happy to know that the cooler will also be stocked with Magnolia favorites like rosemary pecan chicken salad, spicy turkey salad and several housemade soups.
GDD is dedicated to supporting other local businesses and members of the culinary
community. “We source local produce as much as possible and donate our juice pulp to From the Ground Up Community Garden. We would love to expand offerings as we build the business over the next several months,” Kiley explained.
The cafe supports local when it comes to its coffee, too. The coffee beverages served at GDD are made using ingredients from small local businesses. Their drip coffee and cold brew comes from Pensacola-based Alla Prima Roasters, and their espresso beans come from Nova Espresso in Mobile, Alabama.
“It takes a whole lot of people who care a whole lot about what they do to create and cultivate a small business. We are forever grateful to our incredible team for pouring so much love and talent into this project, and to Danielle for the opportunity to build on the legacy she and her team created with The Daily Squeeze. We want this place to feel like it was always here and for the neighborhood to create memories with loved ones over a sip and a snack at Good Day, Darling for years to come,” Kiley said.
GDD is currently open Wednesday through Saturday from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm. To check out the full menu or place an online order, visit gooddaydarling.co.
For updates, daily specials and more, follow @gooddaydarlingcafe on Instagram.
by Morgan Cole
The 2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras season promises to be bigger and more vibrant than ever before. This year’s lineup is packed with some of the most highly anticipated events of the season, including the return of the 2nd Annual Pensacola Mardi Gras Mambo on January 11 at the Pensacola Bay Center.
The Pensacola Mardi Gras Foundation, Inc. (PMG) is thrilled to announce that the 2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras Mambo will be headlined by none other than Lil Jon and Yung Joc, delivering iconic party anthems and high-energy performances at the year’s biggest Mardi Gras celebration.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Lil Jon and Yung Joc to the stage this year. Their energy aligns perfectly with the excitement and tradition of Mardi Gras, promising an unforgettable night for everyone,” Pensacola Mardi Gras President Danny Zimmern said. “This event isn’t just about music— it’s a party with a concert centered around Mardi Gras.”
The night’s festivities will kick off with a trio of beloved Mardi Gras music acts who know how to get a party started. The DeLuna Brass Band will set the tone with traditional Mardi Gras street jazz, weaving through the Bay Center in spirited second line processionals that everyone—from Mardi Gras Krewe royalty to first-timers—is invited to join.
Next, The New Orleans Ramblers will take the stage with their
signature New Orleans jazz-style show, serving as a lively tribute to classic Mardi Gras anthems that celebrate the history of the iconic celebration. Mr. Big and the Rhythm Sisters will then take the stage as they keep the energy soaring with a lineup of timeless hits that are sure to have you dancing along.
As the night heats up, Yung Joc will take the stage to deliver a set filled with his celebrated hits, including the 2006 classic It’s Goin’ Down, which earned Hip-Hop Track of the Year at the BET Hip Hop Awards, along with fan favorites like Get Like Me and I Know You See It. His performance is set to bring both nostalgia and nonstop energy to the Mambo.
The evening culminates with a powerhouse performance by Grammy award winning musician Lil Jon. Known for his rhythmic hits and party anthems that electrify parades, sports contests and dance floors worldwide—like Get Low, Turn Down for What and Shots—Lil Jon’s infectious energy and crowdcommanding stage presence will bring the crowd to their feet, providing an unforgettable end to the Mardi Gras Mambo.
Lil Jon himself will also join Pensacola’s Krewe Royalty on stage to help introduce them as contestants for King and Queen Priscus 2026, the mythical rulers of Pensacola’s Mardi Gras season.
The event will also feature a full-service bar and tasty Mardi Grasthemed foods for everyone to enjoy. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their Krewe attire to join in the revelry.
This one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration is produced by the Pensacola Mardi Gras Foundation, Inc., with support from a grant provided by
Pensacola’s Tourist Development Council and the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners.
“The Pensacola Mardi Gras Mambo at the Pensacola Bay Center has become an exciting addition to the Pensacola Mardi Gras season, bringing together music, community and the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras,” Zimmern explained. “It’s a celebration that showcases what truly makes Pensacola unique.”
Guests of all ages are invited to come experience a full evening of Mardi Gras spirit, music and tradition. The doors will open at 6 pm on January 11, with the Mambo kicking off at 6:30 pm. Ticket prices start at $35 and range to $155 for VIP.
VIP party tickets, special reserved floor seating, reserved seats and general admission tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, or at the Bay Center Box Office located at 201 E. Gregory St. in Pensacola.
“Each year, we aim to raise the bar for the Mambo. It’s exciting to see how it continues to grow and bring more people into the celebration while also supporting our local economy. It’s a night you won’t want to miss,” Zimmern said.
For tickets and event details, visit bit.ly/pmgmambo.
For more information and updates on the 2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras Season, visit pensacolamardigras.com, or follow PMGI on Facebook and Instagram.
Courtesy of Ash Simmons Photography
2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras Events
From the Pensacola Mardi Gras 12th Night Kick-Off Celebration in January to the French Quarter Fat Tuesday Celebration in March, the 2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras Season is filled with fun, festive events for the entire family. Mark your calendar for some or all of these upcoming Mardi Gras festivities. For tickets and complete event details, visit pensacolamardigras.com.
Pensacola Mardi Gras 12th Night Kick-Off Celebration
January 4 from 5 to 11 pm | Palafox and Government Streets (downtown Pensacola)
Pensacola Mardi Gras Mambo Featuring Lil Jon & Yung Joc
January 11 at 6 pm | Pensacola Bay Center
*For tickets and information, visit bit.ly/pmgmambo.
Pensacola Ice Flyers Mardi Gras Night
February 1 at 7 pm | Pensacola Bay Center
*For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.
12th Annual Kids and Kritters Parade
February 8 at 2 pm | Casino Beach Parking Lot (Pensacola Beach)
*For registration and event details, visit pensacolabeachmardigras.com
Pirates of Lost Treasure Flotilla Mardi Gras Boat Parade
February 15 from 10:45 am to 2:30 pm | Begins at Holiday Harbor Marina/Sunset Grille (Intracoastal Waterway)
4th Annual Pensacola Pawdi-Gras
February 16 from 11 am to 4 pm | Garden Street (downtown Pensacola)
*For event details and contest registration, visit wolfgangparkandbrews.com.
Krewe of Lafite Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade
February 28 at 7:30 pm | Palafox Street (downtown Pensacola)
Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade
March 1 from 2 to 7 pm | Palafox Street (downtown Pensacola)
French Quarter Fat Tuesday Celebration
March 4 at 11 am | Seville Quarter (downtown Pensacola)
Photos courtesy of Visit Pensacola
by Alex Hilkey
Pensacola Opera Presents 42nd Season Productions
Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci Come to Saenger this Spring
Pensacola Opera will open its 42nd season with Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro on January 24th and 26th, and close with Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci on March 14th and 16th.
“As Pensacola Opera celebrates its 42nd Season, we build upon our momentum from last season with an exciting lineup of operatic performances and events. Our season represents the ultimate opera experience with two vastly different, yet classic offerings–something for everyone. Prepare to immerse yourself in an experience unlike any other,” Pensacola Opera General Director Chandra McKern said.
Pensacola Opera will open its 42nd season with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s iconic comic opera The Marriage of Figaro on January 24 and 26 at the historic Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola. This dazzling production, conducted by Music Director Cody Martin and directed by Artistic Director Corey McKern, brings Mozart’s unforgettable score to life with a stellar cast, lavish sets and costumes newly designed to transport audiences to the elegant world of 18th-century Spain.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest operas ever written, The Marriage of Figaro follows the witty and resourceful servant Figaro, played by Sidney Outlaw and his fiancée Susanna, portrayed by Jan Miller Studio Artist alum Nicole Heinen, as they outsmart their aristocratic masters, Count and Countess Almaviva. This opera is a delightful whirlwind of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements and social satire. With timeless melodies and unforgettable characters, it’s an evening of comic brilliance and profound humanity.
The production features a talented cast of new and returning singers, including Pensacola native Renée Richardson as the Countess, Joseph Lattanzi as the Count and Jan Miller Studio Artist alum Erin Alford as the young page Cherubino. The role of the scheming Dr. Bartolo is played by Stefano de Peppo, and the cunning Marcellina is performed by Megan Marino. The cast is rounded out by our current Jan Miller Studio Artists, including Rachel Fitzgerald singing the spirited Barbarina, Micah Perry taking on the roles of Basilio and Don Curzio and Joseph O’Shea as the eccentric gardener, Antonio.
“Le nozze di Figaro is the ultimate study in human behavior. A nobleman wishes to sleep with his servant's wife on their wedding night. Out of this simple premise, a tale of intrigue and clash of personalities unfolds. Part of the magic of this opera is that Mozart composed a piece based on real human characters. The psychological profile of the characters and the thematic attention musically to each personality keeps modern audiences interested in this amazing piece of musical theater,” Pensacola Opera Artistic Director Corey McKern said.
Pensacola Opera’s The Marriage of Figaro features striking set designs by Steven C. Kemp (courtesy of New Orleans Opera), vibrant costumes newly designed by Glenn Avery Breed with Wardrobe Witchery, wigs and makeup by Brittany Rappise at Makeup Wigstress and dynamic lighting by Connie Smith. The production is led by a talented team, including conductor Cody Martin, director Corey McKern, production stage manager Alayna Powell and technical director Drew McCrary.
The principal cast is met on stage with an amazing group of volunteer singers known as the Pensacola Opera Chorus. Led by Cody Martin, the Opera Chorus acts as the ensemble in the production and plays an essential role in helping bring these stories to life. This season also continues our long-standing relationship with the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, who brings the beautiful music to life for us from the orchestra pit for each production.
The Marriage of Figaro promises an exhilarating, larger-than-life opera experience—an evening brimming with passion, humor and sublime music.
Performances of The Marriage of Figaro will be held on January 24 at 7:30 pm and January 26 at 2 pm at the Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola.
Pensacola Opera will close its 42nd Season with one of opera’s most emotionally intense and thrilling works, Ruggero Leoncavallo's Pagliacci on March 14 and 16 at the Saenger Theatre. With a powerful cast, dramatic storytelling and an evocative score, this gripping "opera within an opera" is sure to captivate audiences.
Conducted by Principal Guest Conductor Jerome Shannon and directed by Nashville Opera Artistic Director John Hoomes, this production promises an unforgettable theatrical experience.
tells the tragic tale of Canio, the leader of a traveling circus troupe, who must perform while battling heartbreak and jealousy when he discovers that his wife, Nedda, has been unfaithful. The opera’s combination of love, betrayal and violence culminates in one of the most famous and devastating moments in opera—Canio’s anguished cry, "La commedia è finita!" ("The comedy is over!"). With its intense emotional power and soaring has earned its place as one of the most enduring works in the operatic canon.
The production features a talented Pensacola Opera debut cast, with tenor Ben Gulley as Canio (playing Pagliaccio in the play), a role that requires both vocal and dramatic prowess. Soprano Amber Monroe takes on the role of Nedda (Colombina), baritone
Weston Hurt sings the role of Tonio (Taddeo) and baritone Charles Eaton plays Nedda’s young lover, Silvio. Current Jan Miller Studio Artists tenor Micah Perry sings Beppe (Arlecchino), baritone Joseph O’Shea and tenor Greg Watson–30+ production member of the Opera Chorus–act as villagers.
Pagliacci will truly be a celebration of the performing musical arts in our community. Our principal cast is met on stage with an amazing group of volunteer singers known as the Pensacola Opera Chorus. The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will joins us in the pit for our last mainstage production of the season, led by Jerome Shannon and members of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus fill in our ensemble on stage.
Pensacola Opera’s Pagliacci will be brought to life with stunning visual elements, including set designs by Constantine Kritikos (courtesy of New Orleans Opera) and costumes by Glenn Avery Breed at Wardrobe Witchery. The production crew is led by lighting designer Connie Smith, stage manager Nadine Andrews and hair and makeup designer Brittany V.A. Rappise at Makeup Wigstress.
Pensacola Opera will host performances of Pagliacci on March 14 at 7:30 pm and March 16 at 2 pm at the Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola.
Tickets to Pensacola Opera’s 42nd Season productions are on sale now and can be purchased online through ticketmaster.com, by calling (850) 433-6737 or in-person at Pensacola Opera located at 75 S. Tarragona St. in downtown Pensacola. Pensacola Opera is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.
For complete show details and information on other upcoming opera events, visit pensacolaopera.com.
WEDDINGS
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UNLEASHING THE STORM
A Q&A with Lzzy Hale and Joe Hottinger of Halestorm
by Nicole Willis
Halestorm is a Grammy-winning, rock band from Red Lion, Pennsylvania, known for their powerful vocals and energetic performances. Founded in 1997, Halestorm has become a serious force of nature in the hard rock and metal genres. The band rose to fame with hits like Love Bites (So Do I) and I Miss the Misery. Halestorm is composed of lead singer, keyboardist and guitarist Elizabeth “Lzzy” Hale, percussionist Arejay Hale, lead guitarist Joe Hottinger and bassist Josh Smith.
Today, the band continues to tour the world, selling out shows. On January 19, Lzzy and Joe will debut their low-key The Living Room Sessions tour at Vinyl Music Hall in downtown Pensacola at 8 pm. Tickets start at $39.50 and can be purchased online at vinylmusichall.com. Vinyl is located at 2 S. Palafox Street. in downtown Pensacola.
Follow @halestormrocks on Facebook and Instagram, or visit halestormrocks.com for show details, special announcements and more.
DTC: As you’ve been playing for over 25 years now, what changes have you seen or witnessed in the band?
Lzzy: It’s been a constant evolution. Let me take you through a bit of a basic timeline. My brother and I started the band in 1997, so it was just him and I as each other’s ride or die. Then in 2003, we became a real band when we met Joe, our guitarist, and Josh, our bass player. From there, it was the four of us against the world. Then we got signed with Atlantic, we started building our professional team and trying to navigate the new business.
Joe: We’re still trying to figure that part out!
Lzzy: Yeah, I mean he’s from Wisconsin, and I’m from Pennsylvania farmland— we knew nothing. But now, we are in this beautiful spot where we are going through this midlife as a band together. We really see, admire and trust each other—we always have—but now it’s deeper. We’re in a beautiful spot, and we just created what I think is the most amazing album that we’ve ever recorded.
We’ve been speaking a lot about how we have made the impossible happen over the last 28 years as Halestorm. What else is impossible that we can make possible now?
Joe: Turns out you never run out of dreams.
DTC: When you play in Pensacola, it’ll be during your tour titled ‘The Living Room Sessions.’ Can you explain what fans can expect from this show compared to a typical Halestorm performance?
Joe: It’s just going to be Lzzy and me, and we’re bringing our acoustics and some pianos. We’re gonna play songs and tell stories—it’ll be just like hanging out. We’re just gonna be in the room with people and be present. We’ll play songs off the cuff, try to keep it loose and focus on music and having a good time.
Lzzy: First and foremost, Joe and I are doing this selfishly because we missed doing this [laughs]. When we had nothing but a couple of Halestorm gigs, we used to go out and do four-hour acoustic shows just to pay rent and make ends meet. What we wanted to do on this tour is [replicate the feeling of] just inviting all of our fans into our living room. Because that’s what we do with our friends here—we invite them over, listen to music and then we all pick up acoustics. I have my piano, we sing songs, we joke and we
on stage or in life, it is still just the four of us against the world, and we’ve got this. You have to have respect for each other, a desire to heal and a desire to have tough conversations. We’ve had, probably the hardest conversations that we have ever had as a band while making this record; and I love that because they are willing to fight for me and I’m willing to fight for them. They celebrate my big wins, and I celebrate theirs. We do this together.
DTC: What has been your favorite moment in your career so far?
Joe: My favorite so far? It’s this record that we just made.
Lzzy: We had a really amazing conference call this morning with our team, and I think that this morning was my favorite moment. Beyond the Grammy, the accolades and all the amazing things that have happened for us, I think that this next step that we just took and this album that we just finished is one of my greatest achievements—on a personal level and a professional level. So, I think my favorite day is today. You’re witnessing it as it happens.
DTC: Are there any upcoming projects in the works for Halestorm?
Joe: Yes, we literally just finished tracking our new album maybe two days ago. There’s maybe, like, one more track meeting with a friend of ours, we’re just waiting on that. As Lizzy said earlier, it’s so good. I think it’s Halestorm
We’ve always kind of had the philosophy that if we’re not excited, how are our
Susanna and Figaro are getting married! There’s just one problem—Figaro’s boss, the overbearing and womanizing Count Almaviva, is trying to delay their marriage in order to seduce Susanna himself. Luckily, Figaro has a few tricks up his sleeve, enlisting the help of his fiancée and the Countess to expose the Count’s philandering ways. Mozart and Da Ponte’s timeless comedy—based on Beaumarchais’s sequel to The Barber of Seville—contains some of opera’s most brilliant music…and plenty of laughs!
Jan. 24 at 7:30 PM
Jan. 26 at 2:00 PM
Tickets start at $31!
Sidney Outlaw Figaro Nicole Heinen Susanna
Corey McKern Director
Cody Martin Conductor
Joseph Lattanzi Count
Stefano de Peppo Bartolo
Megan Marino Marcellina Micah Perry Basilio/Don Curzio
Erin Alford Cherubino
Renée Richardson Countess
Rachel Fitzgerald Barbarina Joseph O’Shea Antonio
JANUARY COMMUNITY EVENTS
Pensacola Ice Flyers
Schedule and Theme Nights
January home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. Home games kick off at 7:05 pm. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.
January 3 - Birmingham Bull vs Ice Flyers; Cars Jersey Night
January 12 - Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; Savings Sunday
January 17 - Fayetteville Marksmen vs Ice Flyers; Peanuts Night
January 18 - Fayetteville Marksmen vs Ice Flyers; Wiener Dog Race Night
January 19 - Fayetteville Marksmen vs Ice Flyers; Savings Sunday
January 31 - Roanoke Rail Yard Dogs vs Ice Flyers; Rally Foundation Night
Dinner Detective Interactive True Crime Dinner Show
January 4 & 18
Welcome to The Dinner Detective, where a fun night out collides with a thrilling True Crime mystery. Prepare yourself for a night of brain-teasing fun as you dive headfirst into a crime that’s as challenging as it is hilarious. The guilty party could be anywhere—even hiding in plain sight! Beware, the spotlight of suspicion could turn on you at any moment, transforming you into the prime suspect! This isn’t just a dinner; it’s a high-stakes game of whodunit where you’re at the heart of the action. Since 2004, The Dinner Detective’s unforgettable true crime mystery dinner performances have been thrilling audiences nationwide. The show takes place from 6 to 9 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 8 S. 9th Avenue in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and more information, visit thedinnerdetective.com.
Swan Lake: State Ballet of Ukraine with Live Symphony Orchestra
. January 6
Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet, Swan Lake , performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine and presented by Classical Arts Entertainment. This full-scale production, celebrating its 10th Anniversary, features Tchaikovsky’s legendary score played live by the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Aaron Collins. The breathtaking choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov comes to life under the exquisite artistic direction of Andrei Litvinov. Doors open at 6 pm, and the show begins at 7 at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre, located at 118 South Palafox Street. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolasaenger.com.
January 11 & 25
The Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters and The Platters
. . January 16
MLK Day Parade
The Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes all the Snowbirds at the Snowbird Hootenanny! This year there are four Hootenanny dates: January 9 and 23, as well as February 6 and 20. January 9’s Hootenanny theme is “Rock Your Decade,” and attendees are encouraged to show up sporting clothing from their favorite musical eta. On January 23, the Hootenanny theme is “ Beach Bum Party,” and attendees are encouraged to wear their best beachwear, Hawaiian shirts and flip flops included, of course! Both events start at 11 am. There will be plenty of vendors giving away free goodies, along with music, activities and door prize drawings. Food and beverages will be provided by the chefs at the Flora-Bama. For tickets and more information, visit business. visitperdido.com/events.
PSO’s Beethoven & Blue Jeans
. January 13
Whether you dress up or dress down, join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for this annual celebration of Beethoven, anchored by the composer’s Fourth Symphony. A work filled with a spirit of joviality, it was once described by the composer Hector Berlioz as possessing “heavenly gentleness.” Known for its musical variety, the program continues with a South American influence, featuring the aria from Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5, Enrique Granados’ The Maiden and the Nightingale, and Astor Piazzolla’s Concerto for Bandoneón, “Aconcagua.” The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra’s Beethoven & Blue Jeans will be hosted at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre, which is located at 118 South Palafox Street. The show begins at 7:30 pm. For tickets and show details, visit pensacolasymphony.com.
Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour
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January 15
Get ready for a night of jaw-dropping basketball skills, outrageous athleticism, and non-stop laughs with the Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour, presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs. Known for their incredible trick shots, high-flying dunks and hilarious antics, the Globetrotters bring a one-of-a-kind show that’s perfect for fans of all ages. This year, they’ll take on the Washington Generals in an epic showdown as the Generals pull out all the stops to try and defeat the world’s winningest team. The game starts at 7 pm at the Pensacola Bay Center located at 201 E Gregory Street. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.
Get ready for a nostalgic evening celebrating three legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame acts in one unforgettable show! Experience the timeless hits of Cornell Gunter’s Coasters (Charlie Brown, Yakety Yak, Poison Ivy), The Platters (Only You, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, The Great Pretender), and The Drifters (Under the Boardwalk, Up on the Roof, This Magic Moment, On Broadway). With a rich musical history spanning decades, these iconic groups helped define the Rock & Roll and Doo-Wop sound. From the humor of Cornell Gunter’s Coasters to the romance of The Platters and the soulful Motown magic of The Drifters, this show promises something for everyone. Relive the magic of over 40 classic songs performed just as you remember them from the radio. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with showtime at 7:30 pm. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox St. For tickets and show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.
Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
January 17
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to aweinspiring locations. At Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons the Palafox String Quartet will bring your favorite songs to life. Hear hits like Radioactive and Viva la Vida like you’ve never heard them before. Get your tickets now to witness the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons at First United Methodist Church under the gentle glow of candlelight. First United Methodist Church is located at 6 East Wright St. in Pensacola. Doors open at 5:30 pm, and the show begins at 6:15 pm. For tickets and more information, visit feverup.com.
Dusty Slay: The Night Shift Tour
January 18
Get ready to laugh out loud with Dusty Slay, the bourbon-voiced Southern comedian with a knack for observational, blue-collar humor and a laid-back style. Known for his jokes about Cracker Barrel and his aversion to soap, Dusty’s relatable storytelling and selfeffacing charm make him a standout in the comedy world. . He has also appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel Live. Dusty’s Netflix special, Workin’ Man, showcases his comedic cadence and conversational style, bringing his working-class humor to a broader audience. The show will take place at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at pensacolasaenger.com.
. . January 20
Experience the 36th annual MLK Day Parade, a powerful celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This vibrant event brings together the community with music, culture and a strong message of equality, justice, unity and hope. The parade features marching bands, floats, dance groups and local organizations, creating a dynamic atmosphere that celebrates diversity and community pride. Spectators of all ages will gather along the streets to support participants who embody the spirit of unity and togetherness. Celebrate Dr. King’s vision and look toward a brighter future. The parade kicks off at 11:00 a.m. at the intersection of Spring and Garden Streets in downtown Pensacola. This year’s theme is “One Team - One Dream.” For more information or to register as a part of the parade, visit mlkparadepensacola.com. Short Attention Span Theatre @ PLT
January 24 to February 2 Step right up to the spotlight, folks! Short Attention Span Theatre is back by popular demand, lighting up the stage again for another unforgettable performance at Pensacola Little Theatre. Prepare to be transported as the night unfolds with a variety of one-act plays, perfect for those with a short attention span! This black box-style production promises an intimate experience, perfect for those looking to dip their toes into the vibrant world of theatre. Short Attention Span Theatre is a Studio 400 Production and is directed by KG Uslan, Michael Tona, Jonathan Cascio and Eleanore Armani. Pensacola Little Theatre is located at 400 South Jefferson St. in downtown Pensacola. For showtimes and tickets, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Double Bridge Run
February 1
The Publix Pensacola Double Bridge Run is back! One of the premier 15K races in the area, the course carries runners over two bridges, across Pensacola Bay and the Santa Rosa Sound. For the first time this year, the run will go over the fully completed Pensacola Bay Bridge. The 15K route will take runners through downtown Pensacola, Gulf Breeze and onto Pensacola Beach. The 5K invites both runners and walkers to travel from Gulf Breeze to beautiful Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island and the Gulf Islands Seashore. Both races will take runners over the Bob Sikes Bridge to the finish line at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk parking lot. The 15K starts at 7 am and the 5K begins at 8:30 am. To register or learn more about the race, visit pensacolasports.org/double-bridge-run.
Snowbird Hootenanny @ Flora-Bama
MILITARYMATTERS
AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION
NAS PENSACOLA HOSTS TREE PLANTING CEREMONY IN RECOGNITION OF TREE CITY USA RECERTIFICATION
Service members and civilian employees at the
‘Cradle of Naval Aviation’ participated in a tree-planting ceremony December 4 designed to celebrate the organization’s Tree City USA recertification.
Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola Commanding Officer
Capt. Chandra Newman – along with NAS Pensacola Public Works Officer (PWO) Brianna Jackson; Escambia County Forester Cathy Hardin and Navy Facilities Command (NAVFAC) Southeast Pensacola Area Forester Shawn Woodard – planted a Live Oak tree near the installation’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) administrative offices.
The tree planting ceremony, a mainstay of NAS Pensacola’s now 30-year history with Tree City USA, comes at the onset of Navy Tree Awareness Week (December 5 through 11), a local initiative highlighting
proper tree management and providing education and tree care information to NAS Pensacola service members and civilian employees.
“We’re proud of the work that goes on to keep our base beautiful and surrounded by healthy trees,” NAS Pensacola Public Works Officer Brianna Jackson said. “Without the constant dedication and hard work of our Public Works and NAS Pensacola team, the management and maintenance of such a large expanse of urban area would not be possible. It takes cooperation from everyone to have a successful forestry program as we do today.”
NAS Pensacola has more than 2,400 acres of commercial forest managed for a variety of purposes including wildlife habitat, timber, aesthetic value and recreational potential. Additionally, the NAS Pensacola PWD manages forested areas to reduce the risk of wildfires that could damage facilities, endanger lives and threaten missions.
To continue as part of the Tree City USA organization, the NAS Pensacola Natural Resources team ensures that an allocated cost is directed toward forestry projects, maintains an Urban Forestry Ordinance [tree instruction] and has a board to decide on tree mitigation issues. Newman said NAS Pensacola employs rigorous standards to maintain certification in the Tree City USA program, and cited the base’s Natural resources team as instrumental in the program’s ongoing success.
“This is a moment to celebrate for the base – 30 years of being good stewards of this organization and our resources is huge,” NAS Pensacola Commanding Officer Capt. Chandra Newman said. “Pensacola is a special place and I’m truly happy to be here, and thank you for being part of this. Things such as this raise the awareness of how important trees are to our society, and cements us as part of a program protecting urban community forestry areas at which thousands of towns, cities and military communities are based.”
Tree City USA is an Arbor Day Foundation program designed to promote greener and healthier communities at a national level. NAS Pensacola has maintained the distinction of being a ‘Tree City’ for three decades.
Founded in 1976, the first Tree City USA cohort was comprised of 42 communities in 16 states. Today, the program includes more than 3,600 communities from all 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NAS Pensacola initially received Tree City USA designation in 1994.
For more information on the Tree City USA program, visit the Arbor Day Foundation website.
NAS Pensacola, referred to as the “Cradle of Naval Aviation,” is designed to support operational and training missions of tenant commands, including the Naval Aviation Technical Training Center (NATTC); Naval Aviation Schools Command (NASC); Marine Aviation Training Support Groups (MATSG) 21 and 23 and serves as the headquarters for Naval Education and Training Command (NETC).
STORY BY WARRANT OFFICER CHRISTOPHER PAREDES, NAS PENSACOLA
