DOWNTOWN CROWD | OCTOBER 2024
Morgan Cole, Editor
Ah, the sweet sights and smells of fall. For us autumn lovers, this is the time of year that we live for. Halloween decorations have popped up throughout our neighborhoods, setting the mood for the weeks ahead.
This month, we’ve brought you a roundup of local Halloween happenings to help you make the most of the spooky season. From costume contests and haunted houses to pumpkin patches and more, the month of October brings a rush of spooky Halloween festivities. Be sure to check out page 15 for details on some of our favorite new and returning Halloween events happening across the city.
In this issue, you’ll also read about one of my favorite annual events, the Rare Air Emerald Coast Volkswagen Car Show. This nostalgic event brings together more than 300 Volkswagen enthusiasts and showcases some really incredible classic VWs. From retro Westfalia Vanagon campers and buses to beautifully restored classic Bugs, this is one local car show you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re into VWs or classic cars in general, I highly encourage you to come check it out on October 19 at Five Flags Speedway. I’ll be there in my bright blue, 1981 Westfalia Vanagon. :)
Another one of my favorite events returning this month is the Pensacola Humane Society’s Barktoberfest! We’ve brought you the full scoop on all of the exciting festivities in store for this year’s big event, so be sure to check out the story on page 18. Come say hi to me and Kelly Oden—we’ll be judging the pet costume contest!
All this, plus details on the Pensacola Ice Flyers 16th season home games and theme nights, an exclusive Q&A with Moon Taxi frontman Trevor Terndrup and more!
As always, we hope you enjoy the read, and until next time, Cheers!
and they are not necessarily those of the
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
© 2024
– Rishy Studer
Rishy Studer Photo by Matthew Coughlin, 850 Magazine
Ride the Moon Taxi A Q&A with Moon Taxi Frontman Trevor Terndrup
by Nicole Willis
Moon Taxi is an indie-alternative rock band from Nashville known for their energetic live performances and genreblending sound. Formed in 2006, the band combines elements of rock, jam and pop with catchy melodies to create a distinct feel-good coastal sound. The band has gained a strong following through tours and major festival appearances over the years, and are best known for hits like Two High and Morocco. The band is comprised of vocalist and guitarist Trevor Terndrup, guitarist Spencer Thomson, bassist Tommy Putnam, keyboardist Wes Bailey and drummer Tyler Ritter.
Moon Taxi is currently touring the US for their fall tour, which includes stops in both Pensacola and Mobile. The band will take the stage at Vinyl Music Hall on October 17. We had the opportunity to chat with vocalist and guitarist Trevor Terndrup about Moon Taxi’s rising popularity and their unique sound ahead of the band’s upcoming show in Pensacola. The show kicks off at 8 pm at Vinyl Music Hall in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and show details, visit vinylmusichall.com.
DTC: How did getting your start in a music-centric city like Nashville influence your beginnings and your music?
TT: Our bass player, Tommy, and myself went to high school in Alabama, and we had aspirations to pursue music. It was an easy jump right up north to Nashville. We quickly found that people in Nashville take music seriously; I think that is what influenced us—the professionalism of living in Nashville and trying to pursue music there. Everyone goes there to pursue that dream, so you have to show up and you really have to work hard. I think the professionalism side of music was our main influence, because if you can’t perform, there’s a line of people behind you waiting for their opportunities. So, I’d say that musically there was not so much [of an influence], but we were more professionally influenced by being in the city of Nashville.
DTC: Being that you guys have been playing together for over a decade now, what changes have you seen like in the band?
TT: Everyone goes through life changes. We’ve seen pretty much everybody get married and now, we have kids—it’s just gotten richer. I think that now that we have six albums out, the songwriting has gotten better and the production has gotten better, but at the core, when we do get together, we laugh like we did in college. It’s just like making music with your buddies,
but we’ve just been able to do that and sustain this for over a decade.
DTC: The pandemic made you guys turn towards FaceTime and Zoom to collaborate remotely. How has your approach to songwriting shifted as the industry has changed over the past 5 years?
TT: Well, it’s really shifted our production, too. Now we’re able to not so much write songs remotely—we do a little bit of that—but we’re able to produce these songs remotely as well. I can get a demo from Spencer or Wes, and I’m able to go in my own personal studio, which is not much to speak of, but it’s a nice desktop setup, and we all pretty much have the same gear now. So, it’s apples to apples as far as me producing the vocals and then I’ll just send it via Dropbox. It’s been nice to to be able to work remotely still, but there is something to be said for being all in the same room with our instruments together and then just kind of vibing off each other. I think we definitely take advantage of the remote producing of it and the remote writing, but it’s not like we have to at this point.
DTC: What can people expect from your live shows?
TT: We aim to please! We really just enjoy putting on a good show. Since the music has a lot of variety in it, I think it’s got something for everybody. We like sing alongs, and we encourage sing alongs. Even if you’re a skeptical fan coming in, I think you’re gonna be singing along by the end of the night.
DTC: You’ve played along the Gulf Coast quite a bit, including multiple sets at Hangout Fest. Your music has a laid-back, beachy and coastal vibe. Do you feel more at home performing near the beach, or does that just happen to align with where your music takes you?
TT: Yeah, I do think it feels like it has a home down there. Sometimes when we write that’s even brought up, like ‘Oh, this would be good at a beach setting, or somewhere on the coast.’ Oddly enough, Nashville is very landlocked, but it does feel like we draw inspiration from that coastal vibe and that coastal feel.
DTC: What is your favorite show or festival that you guys have played?
TT: Well, you just mentioned Hangout, and I’ve got to say Hangout, just because it was one of the first festivals
that we got to play where it felt like we were really winning over some fans. We grew as a band afterwards. There’s also obviously Bonnaroo, which is up here in Tennessee. Between those two, I’d say it’s hard to pick a favorite.
DTC: With six studio albums under your belt, what excites you most about the future of Moon Taxi?
TT: I just love that we’re able to sustain our personal relationships. We got through COVID together. We got through and are going through these big life milestones together. It just feels like everybody’s in it for the right reasons. So, that’s what excites me— just to see what the next 10 years will will bring for us.
DTC: Does Moon Taxi have any upcoming projects in the works?
TT: Yeah, we’re actually finishing up an album now. That release is TBD,
but it’s very close. It’ll have some cool collaborations on it, which I’m really excited about. Details on that to come!
@ridethemoontaxi ridethemoontaxi.com
Care
48thAnnual Fashion Show
Oct. 24, 2024
Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center 913 South I St.
5:30 p.m. Cocktails, Silent Auction and Charcuterie
6:30 p.m. Program and Live Auction
7 p.m. Fashion Show
Fashions provided by Bluetique, Dillard’s, Gulf Coast cabi Stylists and The Market & Mainly Shoes
For event updates, visit baptisthealthcarefoundation.org or call 448.227.8150.
Thank you to our current sponsors as of Sept. 13, 2024.
Peace, Love & BUGS!
28th Annual Rare Air Emerald Coast VW Car Show
By Ashlee Delaphan
We all know the nostalgia of seeing an old Volkswagen (VW) driving down the road, whether fond memories of road trips or the shock from punch buggies comes to mind. In the coming weeks, you may see more VWs on the road here in Pensacola thanks to a popular VW car show coming up on October 19.
The much-anticipated car show is hosted by true VW enthusiasts from the Rare Air Emerald Coast VW club, a group of more than 300 members— all ranging in age from 13 to over 80 years old.
As a brand, VWs were initially produced by Ferdinand Porsche (yes, Porsche) in 1938. Later, all VW factories were taken over during WWII to accommodate military vehicle needs. Eight years later, England purchased VW with the hope of restoring Germany. The first VW was sold in the United States in 1949 and from there on out, the rest is history.
Emerald Coast and Rare Air initially began as two separate VW clubs, which merged in 1991 due to declining members. Four years later, the club found its long-time president, William
Tucker, affectionately known by many as “Wild Bill.” His passion for the club and the cars is contagious. “Bill eats, sleeps and probably dreams VWs. They’re his whole life,” longtime club member and tech session host Don Dorough said.
Tucker became president of the club in 1995 and thanks to his passion for VWs, has remained president since. Tucker first got into the hobby of restoring old VWs after serving in the Navy. In 1969, he bought his first VW bus for $2,000 cash and never looked back. Tucker eventually found his place in the VW Club in 1994, where he’s met many of his closest friends. Tucker can easily be recognized by his VW bus, which is boldly painted black and white with the art from Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of The Moon album.
“The club and the people are great. Being able to help somebody keep their VW on the road and seeing that same personyears later helping someone else is what it’s all about. It’s kind of like passing the torch,” Tucker explained.
The Rare Air Emerald Coast VW Club is known for its community, having
someone for all types of maintenance and always having someone to help out when needed. Like any Volkswagen club, this club caters to anyone with a VW. Due to the age and mechanics of the classic air-cooled VWs, they often encounter issues while on the road. The Rare Air VW Club is there to help anyone, regardless of membership status.
Dorough has been known to bring broken-down buses and bugs back to his workshop to fix them and even let
the owners camp on the site if needed. “We all have the same goal, which is to keep the VWs going and help if something goes wrong,” Tucker said.
Tech sessions are a unique part of the Rare Air Emerald Coast VW Club. Members bring their various VW vehicles to be worked on and discussed, while also learning maintenance skills and troubleshooting mechanical issues from one another. Anyone is welcome to become a member, and anyone
Photos by Shawn Burke
with a VW is welcome to join in on tech sessions. Meetings are held the first Saturday of the month at 10 am at Dorough’s personal shop located at his home.
“We have a group of like-minded people who have spare parts, knowledge, and enthusiasm for keeping the air-cooled VWs on the road.” This group has the right idea, too, since the tech session, which originated with the Rare Air Emerald Coast club, is now being adopted by other VW clubs around the United States. “Tech sessions are, at their core, a community of people gathering to help each other out,” Tucker said.
Dorough is also well-known for lending a helping hand with the VW club, regardless of the time and weather, and even offering his home’s backyard for tech sessions.
Another adventure that club members take on is the annual Emerald Coast
Rare Air VW Car Show, which will be held on October 19. Individuals from across the region come to Pensacola for this beloved annual event to admire hundreds of classic and newer models of VWs, including vintage buses, bugs and everything in between. VW owners are also invited to bring their prized VWs to display, trade or sell. The show will have plenty of vendors, food trucks and, of course, the featured cars for visitors to enjoy.
The 28th Annual Rare Air Emerald Coast car show will feature 24 registered classes of VWs competing for various awards, ranging from best paint job to best in show. Each year has its unique theme, and this year, the theme is zombies, embracing the Halloween spirit. Attendees should watch for VWs decked out in undead paint and decorations.
Each year, a percentage of the proceeds from the car show support a local charity selected by the club
members. Last year’s charity was Keep Pensacola Beautiful. This year, the club will donate a portion of the car show proceeds to Favor House of Northwest Florida, a domestic abuse treatment center in Pensacola.
The 28th Annual Rare Air Emerald Coast VW show will kick off at 8
am on October 19 at the Five Flags Speedway at 7451 Pine Forest Rd. in Pensacola. There is no cost to attend this family-friendly event. All ages are welcome.
For event details and to learn more about the Rare Air Emerald Coast VW Club, visit rareairvw.com. SATURDAY & SUNDAY OCT 26 & 27 10 AM-5 PM
Pensacola Ice Flyers Kick Off 16th Season
by Katie Turman
Theme Night Excitement and Community Involvement
The Pensacola Ice Flyers will return to the hangar for their 16th season, offering a packed schedule of intense competition and exciting fan activities.
The first home game of the 2024-2025 season will kick off October 19 at 7:05 pm at the Pensacola Bay Center in downtown Pensacola. The team will play a 56-game regular season schedule with 28 home games at the Pensacola Bay Center.
The team is also thrilled to continue the wildly popular theme nights, providing fans with the opportunity to dress up, win prizes and support their community.
“We’re going all out for this year’s theme nights and focusing on creating immersive experiences that go beyond just hockey. Fans can look forward to more interactive elements, more accessibility to our players and themed merchandise that will make each visit to the Hangar a new adventure,” Ice Flyers Marketing and Operations Director Brenden Arney said.
Dog lovers will enjoy the return of the popular Small Dog Race Nights on both October 26 and March 21, 2025. Avid Star Wars fans will also have a chance to get their geek on by dressing up as their favorite Star Wars hero or villain for the November 16 theme night.
Two new festive theme nights have been added to this year’s lineup. On December 21, fans are invited to sport their ugliest, most outlandish Christmas sweaters for the new Ugly Sweater Night. Other new theme night additions include Wrestling Night on January 3 and Race Night on January 31.
In addition to an exciting lineup of new and returning theme nights, the team will also be giving back to the local community through the continuation of its Charity of the Month Program. Since its inception, the program has allowed the team to support selected nonprofit organizations throughout the season and has provided the opportunity for fans to get involved in the community. Each month, the team chooses a different charity to support both financially and socially during their home games.
According to team owner Greg Harris, the Ice Flyers will be adding to the list of charities with Fiesta Pensacola’s Seafood Festival and Crawfish Festival. “Fiesta’s two festivals bring together 80,000 to 100,000 people downtown for each event, both locals and out-of-town visitors, and they do an amazing job showcasing Pensacola and its history throughout the calendar year. It’s great to be partnered with Fiesta,” Harris said.
Taking place over several days in downtown Pensacola, these two
festivals bring the community together for delicious food and fun activities. The Crawfish Festival is next in the lineup, set to take place April 25 to 27, 2025. With the addition of a major local event to their Charity of the Month, the team hopes to increase support for the Pensacola community.
“The excitement and anticipation around our community for our upcoming season is nothing like I have seen. It has become a full circle situation where we have really connected with our community and our community has really connected with us. Every off-season, we are focused on and motivated by how we can do things better and bigger for our fans and community,” Harris said.
Last season, the team introduced a new team puppy, Buccella, who captured the hearts of fans at the home games. Unfortunately, Buccella’s time with the Ice Flyers is coming to an end. “His last game will be Opening Night on October 19. It’ll be a bittersweet experience, but we’re excited to cheer him on and see his progression as he enters professional training,” Arney said. Fans who want to see Buccella on the ice one last time should ensure that they have tickets for opening night.
As for the team itself, fans can expect to see returning players and several new faces competing on the ice this season.
“We have kept a few of our core players and are bringing in some veteran players that have stood out to us from other teams who were free agents. These guys, combined with a good mix of talented and hard-working rookies, will be an extremely fun team to watch,” Harris said. For more information on theme nights, community involvement, game schedules and tickets, visit iceflyers.com or follow the team on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @PcolaIceFlyers.
2024-2025 Theme Night Schedule:
October 19 – Opening Night
The first 1,000 fans through the gates will receive an exclusive magnet schedule, ensuring they never miss a game.
October 26 – Small Dog
Race Night
The Ice Flyers are excited to welcome their smallest furry friends back to the hangar for one last race of the season.
November 8 – Adult Jersey
Giveaway
For the first time in team history, the Ice Flyers will be giving away adult jerseys to the first 1,000 fans in attendance.
November 9
– Blue Angels Night
As a tribute to the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration team, the Ice Flyers will celebrate the Blue Angels by wearing special uniforms and offering discounted tickets to military members and their families.
November
16
– Star Wars Night
The Star Wars Universe is returning to the rink for another intergalactic night of fun and excitement, including special character appearances, jerseys and themed activities that any Star Wars fan will enjoy.
November 27 & 30 – $5
Night
Fans old and new will be able to purchase $5 tickets (excluding glass) and learn about the rich history of the Ice Flyers on this action-packed night.
For the complete lineup of 2024-2025 theme nights, visit iceflyers.com.
Frights, Festivities & Fun
Pensacola Halloween Celebrations for Everyone
by Nicole Willis
As Halloween creeps upon us, Pensacola is gearing up for a month of spooky fun. Whether you’re looking to brave a haunted house this spooky season or treat your babies or fur babies to some Halloween fun, there’s no shortage of local Halloween festivities to keep your October thrilling. We’ve brought you details on some of our favorite local Halloween festivities that everyone’s sure to enjoy.
Boo at the Zoo
Get in the Halloween spirit at Boo at the Zoo! The Gulf Breeze Zoo will host six exciting days of Halloween-themed entertainment and family-friendly fun each weekend leading up to Halloween. Put on your favorite costume and take a stroll down the trick-or-treat trail, jump around in bounce houses, get your face painted like your favorite animal and explore the zoo’s Ambassador Animal Headquarters. Children receive a festive bag for the trick-or-treat trail upon arrival. Boo at the Zoo will be held October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27 from 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets are $10 for zoo members. Adult non-member tickets are $27.95, child tickets are $20.95 and senior tickets are $25.95. The Gulf Breeze Zoo is located at 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy. For tickets and event details, visit gbzoo.com.
East Hill Witches Ride
The 2nd annual East Hill Witches Ride is returning October 19, and it is sure to be a witchin’ good time! Grab your bikes, get dressed in your best witch costume and get ready to roll down the streets of East Hill with your fellow neighbors. Hosted by the East Hill Neighborhood Association, the annual Witches Ride is a great opportunity to get outdoors and visit some of the many wonderful local businesses in the East Hill neighborhood. At 12:30 pm, attendees will meet at Cordova Square park at 1101 N. 12th Ave. and take off at 12:45 pm. Stops along the ride include Alga Beer Company and East Hill Bottle Shop, with the ride ending at the Wisteria Tavern on 12th Avenue. Riders will stay approximately 45 minutes at each location to enjoy food and drinks as desired. Come dressed in your best witch-themed attire and deck out your “broom” (bike), as prizes will be given for the most witchy outfit and best “broom.” Participation in the ride is free, but online registration is required at myeasthill.org/events.
FCAC Glass Pumpkin Patch
First City Art Center (FCAC) will host its 18th Annual Pumpkin Patch October 4 and 5, featuring more than 4,500 handcrafted glass and ceramic pumpkins up for sale. FCAC’s annual Pumpkin Patch event serves as its signature annual fundraising event, allowing FCAC to operate as a creative home for artists in the community. The event will kick off with the First Pick Preview Party on October 4 from 5 to 8 pm, allowing guests first pick of the patch. Tickets include the opportunity to purchase two pumpkins and enjoy two complimentary beers or wine (ages 21+). The Preview Party will also feature food trucks, live music, art and more. Tickets to the First Pick Preview Party are $35 for FCAC members and $40 for non-members. Members will receive early entry into the party at 5 pm and non-members will be able to enter at 5:30 pm. Children under 12 get in for free. The General Admission Pumpkin Patch Sale will take place on October 5 from 10 am to 2 pm. Saturday admission is free and there will be no limit on pumpkin sales. Pumpkin prices start at $20. For tickets and information, visit firstcityart.org.
Pensacon HalloweenFest 2024
Pensacon and Splash City Adventures are teaming up to offer another weekend of Halloween fun with Pensacon HalloweenFest at Splash City Adventures! On October 5 and 6, enjoy pop-culture fun with a Halloween twist in a convention-like setting, complete with opportunities to meet and greet with various actors, artists and authors. Attendees will also have the chance to shop for items from a variety of pop-culture-themed vendors. The event will also feature live entertainment and festive trickor-treating for the entire family. There will be a weekend-long raffle-style auction for a chance to win unique collectibles, original artwork, one-of-a-kind autographed memorabilia and more. Proceeds from the raffle will support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida. During the event, guests can explore the amusement park for just $9.99. Costumes are encouraged, as each day will include a costume contest, with adults competing on Saturday and kids competing on Sunday. Splash City Adventures is located at 6709 Pensacola Blvd. Entry is free, and the event runs from 10 am to 6 pm on Saturday and 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday. For more information, visit pensacon.com.
Seville Quarter Halloween Costume Contest
Spend your Halloween night at Pensacola’s iconic Seville Quarter! The historic venue will host its annual Halloween Costume Contest which is set to be Pensacola’s biggest and best costume contest of the night. Starting at 9 pm, those over the age of 21 are invited to put on their best, most creative costume for the annual contest. Stakes are high, as there will be a $1,000 cash prize for the first-place winner, and other great prizes for the top 20 best costumes. The party kicks off with registration at 7 pm and will continue throughout the Seville Quarter Haunted Complex all night. Stop by and enjoy the fun competition, great music and spooky tricks and treats. Seville Quarter is located at 130 E. Government St. in downtown Pensacola. For more information, visit sevillequarter.com.
Hadji Haunted House
If you like to get spooked, the Hadji Haunted House is for you! Hosted annually at the Hadji Temple, the haunted house features 40 rooms of terror to explore…if you dare! The haunted house will be open from 7 to 10:30 pm the first three weekends of October leading up to Halloween, including Halloween night. Proceeds from this year’s haunted house will benefit the Pensacola Breast Cancer Association. Tickets are $25 and there is an option to upgrade to VIP for an extra $15. The VIP upgrade will get you to the front of the line, as well as a commemorative lanyard and photo. In addition to the regular haunted house, Hadji Temple will also host a special kid-friendly haunted house on October 27 for $10 a ticket. The Hadji Temple is located at 800 W. 9 Mile Rd. in Pensacola. For tickets and information, visit hadjihauntedhouse.com.
Pensacola’s Most Haunted: Ghost Tour & Scavenger Hunt
Join Pensacola’s Most Haunted Ghost Tour and Scavenger Hunt for an eerie adventure through some of Pensacola’s spookiest spots. From historic buildings to old cemeteries, search for scavenger hunt clues while exploring and learning about the supernatural history of the city’s most infamous haunted locations. Participants will utilize a scavenger hunt mobile app and digital adventure travel guide for the self-guided tour, so be sure to bring a charged cell phone. Whether you’re a supernatural skeptic or a true paranormal believer, this tour is sure to leave you
with goosebumps. Tickets are $30 per person and all ages are welcome. Participants should meet up 10 minutes before scheduled tour times at 221 E. Government St. in downtown Pensacola. Various time slots are available from October 1 to 31. For tickets and information, visit pensacolaghostevents.com.
Pensacola Arts Market: Spooky Vibes
Soak up the spooky vibes at Pensacola Arts Market’s Halloween-themed markets October 12 and 26 at Cordova Square. The October markets will feature a variety of vendors selling festive handmade items and one-of-a-kind spooky treasures. Attendees will be able to browse the booths of local artists and artisans, as well as enjoy delicious treats from local food trucks, tricks not included. There will also be free arts and crafts booths for all ages and a hauntingly fun photo booth, so wear your best costume! This free, family-friendly event runs from 11 am to 4 pm at Cordova Square park located at 1101 N. 12th Ave. in the East Hill. Check out @pensacolaartsmarket on Facebook and Instagram for details.
BARKTOBERFEST
By Eloise Lautier
Start picking out costumes for you and your four-legged friend and join other dog lovers on October 27 for the Pensacola Humane Society’s (PHS) 2024 Barktoberfest celebration.
It’s the biggest and best pet-friendly festival on the Gulf Coast, serving as one of the most entertaining, silly and educational events of the year. Best of all, there’s no admission fee. The fun starts at 10 am and continues until 4 pm under the shady oaks of Seville Square in downtown Pensacola.
Barktoberfest is the second largest fundraiser for PHS and draws huge crowds of animal lovers each year. PHS is proud to showcase Barktoberfest’s major sponsors this year, including the Ice Flyers (Title Sponsor) and Milton Animal Hospital (Leader of the Pack). Other major sponsors include Animal Hospital of Pensacola, Ballinger Publishing, Cat Country, East Hill Animal Hospital, Fishbein Orthodontics,
So Fun, It’s Scary!
Johnstone Supply and Veterinary Emergency Referral Center. Cat Country’s Mel McRae, half of the Cat Pak’s Morning Show, will be the emcee for the entire day.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Attendees of the Pensacola Humane Society’s Barktoberfest can a fun filled day of excitement for both dogs and their owners. Show off your pup’s skills in the Best Trick Contest or dress up together for a chance to win the Doggy/Owner Look-alike Contest. Get creative with your canine’s costume and compete in the Best Costume Contest or let your speedy pooch race in the small dog races. Capture memories with a photo of you and your furry friend and challenge your dog to tackle the obstacle course, ball pit or treat walk. The event will also feature face painting, K9 demonstrations, a petting zoo and plenty of other activities for all ages to enjoy.
Founded in 1943, PHS is approaching its 82nd anniversary. The organization became a nokill facility in 1988 and has since, received numerous rewards and recognition from national animal rescue associations. Today, PHS works cooperatively with Escambia County Animal Shelter and Santa Rosa County Animal Shelter.
PHS has developed an excellent working relationship with the Jacksonville Humane Society, one of the foremost animal rescues in the entire country. Members of the PHS staff have undergone state-of-theart training at Jacksonville Humane Society, giving them a unique perspective and fresh ideas that help PHS fulfill their mission. Additionally, PHS is actively involved with Everett Animal Welfare Group by providing their fully-equipped Tag and Release van to safely transport community cats for spay and neuter services.
There’s no such thing as an ordinary day at PHS. Here are a few of their accomplishments:
• PHS cares for an average of 100 animals on site and in foster homes.
• Since June 2023, PHS had 764 adoptions.
• To date, PHS has assisted with 645 cat spay/neuter procedures by providing transport to surgical clinics through a partnership with Everett Animal Welfare Group.
• PHS provided 7,500 pounds of dog and cat food through its Pet Pantry to people in need, allowing for nearly 30,000 meals since October 2023.
• Since August 2023, PHS has assisted Escambia County and Santa Rosa County animal shelters by transferring 143 dogs and cats to its shelter for care and adoption.
• In May 2024, PHS reopened their surgical suite and to date, completing 210 surgeries/ alterations on animals in their care.
• The result of all this hard work is a 97.9 percent save-rate (as of August 31, 2024).
With an army of dedicated volunteers and a well-trained staff of 22, including vet techs and veterinarians, PHS provides the best possible care and endless love for homeless, abandoned and neglected animals. PHS offers volunteer training opportunities for those looking to get involved.
PHS also has an active foster program which gives the animals a chance to get a break from shelter life and become more adoptable. PHS provides fosters with food, bedding and toys and also pays for the animal’s medical expenses. If you would like to become a PHS
Foster, you can sign up at their volunteer booth at Barktoberfest.
Recently, PHS was commended by Best Friends, the nation’s largest sanctuary for homeless animals, as a no-kill shelter by exceeding a 90 percent save rate for cats and dogs in 2023.
Help PHS continue to provide innocent animals with the love and care they need as they wait for their fur-ever homes. Join the fun and celebrate PHS’s love for dogs at Barktoberfest on October 27 at Seville Square. It’s a tail-wagging good time for you and your best four-legged friend!
For more information about Barktoberfest, email barktoberfest@ pensacolahumane.org. Learn more about the Pensacola Humane Society at pensacolahumane.org.
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OCTOBER COMMUNITY EVENTS
Pensacola Ice Flyers
Schedule and Theme Nights
October home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.
October 19 at 7:05 pm - Huntsville Havoc vs Ice Flyers; Opening Night
October 26 at 7:05 pm - Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; Small Dog Race Night
Seville Quarter Paranormal Investigation and Historic Tours
October 1-31
Do you dare dine inside one of Pensacola’s oldest buildings at its most haunted restaurant? Investigate the ghosts of Seville Quarter with professional paranormal investigators and actual ghost-hunting equipment. Listen as your guide weaves tales of the ghosts, debauchery, murder, mayhem, paranormal activities and history of Seville Quarter and historic Downtown Pensacola. Participants will use high-tech ghost-hunting and paranormal equipment. Tickets are $50 each and include a $12 voucher for lunch or dinner at Seville Quarter. All ages are welcome. Tours are conducted throughout October on Tuesdays from 11 am to 1 pm and Sundays from 6 to 8 pm. For tickets and booking details, visit pensacolaghostevents.com.
Pensacola’s Most Haunted: Ghost Tours & Scavenger Hunts
October 1-31
Join Pensacola’s most haunted tour and a scavenger hunt for a spine-chilling adventure like no other. From historic buildings to eerie cemeteries, explore the city’s most infamous haunted spots as you search for clues while learning about the supernatural history at each location. Participants will utilize a scavenger hunt mobile app and digital adventure travel guide for the self-guided tour, so be sure to bring a charged cell phone. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer in the paranormal, this tour will leave you with goosebumps. The rate is $30 per person (per-day) and all ages are welcome. Groups meet up 10 minutes before scheduled tour times at 221 E. Government St. in downtown Pensacola. The event will run throughout October. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolaghostevents.com.
2024 Stamped Film Festival
October 3-6
The Stamped Film Festival showcases the artistic contribution of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ) film and filmmakers from all over the world. The unique ability of film to transcend stereotypes and relate to the viewer opens the door to a dialogue about the LGBTQ experience, building a stronger and more open Pensacola. The festival continues to attract a growing audience while advancing
its mission to raise awareness and support for the LGBTQ community. The 2024 Stamped Film Festival will take place at the Clark Family Cultural Center located at 400 S. Jefferson St. in downtown Pensacola. For more information, visit stampedfilmfest.com.
PSO Opening Night
October 5
Under the baton of Maestro Peter Rubardt, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra’s (PSO) 99th season commences with a pairing for star-crossed lovers — Sergei Prokofiev’s Suite from Romeo and Juliet and Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. The two hours’ traffic of the stage also features the unforgettable melodies of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto, a rapturous and powerful musical triumph, featuring soloist Joyce Yang. PSO’s opening night begins at 7:30 pm, and takes place at the Saenger Theatre located at 118 S. Palafox St. in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolasymphony. com/product/opening-night-2024.
Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival
October 12
Brought to you by your local Northeast Pensacola Sertoma Club, Inc., the 10th annual Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival is a festival will take place this October. On October 12, up to 40 teams, supported by thousands of spectators, will compete for bragging rights in the 10th Annual Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival. The races start at 8 am on Bayou Texar, just off of Bayview Park located at 2000 E. Lloyd St. The event will feature food Trucks, vendors and fun for the whole family. Admission is free and anyone can attend. Please visit pensacoladragonboatfestival.com for more information.
Taste of the Beach Festival 2023
October 12
Pensacola Beach’s Taste of the Beach Festival will take place from 10 am to 5 pm on October 12. The festival features a variety of Pensacola Beach restaurants showcasing and serving up their signature dishes to attendees. There will also be cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, children’s activities and more. Entry to the festival is free. 2024’s Taste of the Beach Festival will be hosted at the Casino Beach Gulfside Pavilion. For more information, visit pensacolabeachchamber.com.
Pensacola Half Marathon & 5k
October 13
The Pensacola Half Marathon course was designed by locals to highlight the beauty of Pensacola and give participants a run that they will love. The half marathon starts and ends at Community Maritime Park by the Blue Wahoos Stadium. Participants will loop through the historic North Hill community just before crossing the Bayou Chico bridge capturing marina views of both Bayou Chico and Pensacola Bay. Next,
the course takes you to Pensacola’s downtown through the Historic District before returning you back to Maritime Park. The race is a great event for Columbus Day weekend. To register or learn more, visit runpensacola.com.
Blue Angels Practice Dates
October 16, 22 & 23
The world-famous Blue Angels can be seen practicing over the National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola select days throughout the year. Department of Defense identification cardholders and their guests (active duty service members, retirees, and their families) can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum to watch the Blue Angels practice. The gates will open at 9:30 am. The practice flight demonstrations can also be viewed outside of NAS Pensacola including Fort Pickens, boat cruises, and various points throughout downtown. The Blue Angels will take off around 10:30 am and the practices last for about 55 minutes. Practice schedules are subject to change.
ITEN WIRED Summit
October 16-18
ITEN (Innovation Technology Education Network) WIRED Summit is an annual conference of the Information Technology Association of the Gulf Coast, Inc. (IT Gulf Coast). It is known as the Southeast’s premier cybersecurity and IT conference to connect, collaborate and build community with industry leaders, entrepreneurs and educators on innovation, technology and entrepreneurship topics. The three-day event highlights the area’s cybersecurity, information technology and entrepreneurial communities and explores emerging technology and innovators in start-up tech, artificial intelligence, robotics, and more on the national scene. For tickets and more information, visit itenwired.com.
Pensacola Interstate Fair
. . October 17 – 27
The 2024 Pensacola Interstate Fair is here this October. With over 60 rides, top-name entertainers, loads of entertaining and educational exhibits, delicious fair food and more, there is always something new to see and do at the fair! We provide facilities for the agricultural, educational, scientific, livestock, cultural, commercial and industrial resources of surrounding counties and states. The Pensacola Interstate Fair is a star-spangled parade of exhibits that attracts participants from all over the country. The Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds are located at 664 Mobile Highway. For tickets, fair hours and more information, visit pensacolafair.com.
Bud Light Charity Tennis Challenge
. October 18 and 19
Pensacola Sports has partnered with The Lewis Bear Company to present the 17th annual Bud Light Charity Challenge Tennis Tournament. This event benefits Arc Gateway, an organization
that provides the best possible life experiences for more than 1,200 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and Pensacola Sports, a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency that focuses on education, inspiration and participation in various sports activities. The tournament will be hosted at this Roger Scott Tennis Center. To register or learn more about this year’s tournament, visit pensacolasports. org/bud-light-charity-challenge.
WolfGang Pensacola’s HowlO-Ween Spooktacular!
October 24
Get ready for a frightfully fun time at WolfGang Pensacola’s October Yappy Hour: Howl-OWeen Spooktacular! Join fellow dog lovers for an evening of Halloween-themed fun. From Halloween bingo and craft beer specials to spooktacular costumes and adoption opportunities, this event is perfect for dog lovers looking to have some spooky fun. The event is open to everyone, whether you’re bringing a dog or just looking to join in the fun. All dogs must be well-behaved and on a leash at all times. WolfGang Pensacola’s Howl-OWeen Spooktacular will be held at Pensaola Bay Brewery, located at 225 Zaragoza St. from 6 to 8 pm. For more information, visit wolfgangparkandbrews.com.
Cinemas in the Sand
October 25
The Santa Rosa Island Authority (SRIA) will be hosting “Cinemas in the Sand,” free familyfriendly movie nights. Held at the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach, Cinemas in the Sand allows families to come together and enjoy the beautiful beach and a wholesome movie. Get out your beach chairs, pack the cooler and head out to the beach for some family fun. On October 25, the SRIA will be showing Monsters, Inc. The movie will begin playing at sunset on a giant inflatable outdoor movie screen. For more information visit visitpensacolabeach.com.
Music for Families: Peter & the Wolf
October 26
Join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra (PSO) for a special event for all ages. Experience PSO’s annual Music for Families concert, featuring Peter & the Wolf, the story of a brave young boy and his lively animal friends — a bird, a duck and a cat — who are brought to life by the instruments of the orchestra. This symphonic folk tale, by composer Sergei Prokofiev, has introduced generations to orchestral music. The one-hour concert will be followed by activities, including an instrument petting zoo with our musicians. The concert will begin at 3 pm and take place at First Baptist Church of Pensacola located at 500 N. Palafox St. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolasymphony.com.
MILITARYMATTERS
AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION
USS RICHARD M. MCCOOL, JR. COMMISSIONS
The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Richard M. McCool, Jr. (LPD 29) commissioned aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, September 7.
Welcomed throughout the week, the crew, joined by the ship’s sponsor, Shana McCool, and McCool’s great-grandchildren, attended community events supported by local businesses, flyovers by the Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron, a visit by the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, and ceremony host, Naval Air Station Pensacola.
Participating in the ceremony were Marine Aviation Training Support Groups Two-One and Two-Three, Navy Training Wing Ten (VT-10) Wildcats, Navy Band Southeast, McGuire’s Pipe and Drum Band and 350 Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps and Navy League Sea Cadets from Alabama, Arkansas and Pensacola.
During the ceremony guest speaker, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, honored the ship’s namesake as they brought the ship to life, beginning its commissioned service. “Captain McCool’s leadership in the face of grave danger and his acts of heroism to save the crew and the ship our nation entrusted to him are indeed an example for all throughout.”
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti also reflected on the importance of the Navy-Marine Corps team. “The LPD plays an essential role on our Blue-Green team as the workhorse of our Amphibious Fleet, and soon McCool will set sail and begin embarking, transporting, and landing elements of our Navy-Marine Corps team,” Franchetti said. “The commissioning of this warship puts another player with more capability on the field in America’s Warfighting Navy,
providing more options to our Nation’s leaders to deter and if necessary, fight and win our Nation’s wars in this decade and beyond.”
Emphasizing the critical role of the integrated Navy-Marine Corps team in the event that deterrence fails, Gen. Mahoney concluded, “If the Marine Corps is a bullet to be fired by the Navy, the USS Richard M. McCool, Jr. – with the very crew you see here today – will pull the trigger.”
Commanding Officer Capt. Jeff Baker thanked family, friends, the commissioning committee, those who were not able to be present, the communities of Pascagoula and Pensacola and Gulf Coast shipbuilders - electricians, machinists, pipe fitters, painters, riggers, welders and more; everyone who helped to bring this ship to life.
“LPD 29, Richard M. McCool, when deployed comes equipped with the most advanced weapons system ever produced,” Baker said. “The weapons system with unlimited reach, lethality, and combat effectiveness. The only system known to mankind that cannot be defeated by any adversary anywhere in the world. The weapons system of the United States Marines Corps.”
LPD 29 is the 13th San Antonio-class LPD commissioned in the United States Navy, and the first U.S. Navy ship to bear this namesake. The naming of LPD 29 honors U.S. Navy Capt. Richard M. McCool, Jr., Ret. who received the Medal of Honor in 1945 for the heroism he displayed after his ship, USS LSC 122, was attacked by kamikaze aircraft in the Battle of Okinawa. Despite suffering from shrapnel wounds and painful burns, he led efforts to battle a blazing fire on his ship and rescue injured Sailors.
McCool was a leader whose life and legacy revolved around service. In addition to USS LSC 122, he commanded the USS LSC 44 and served on the USS McKean (DD-784), USS Frank Knox (DD-742), and USS Leyte (CV-32), and at the University of Oklahoma, and Eighth Naval District, New Orleans, Louisiana. Attending Boston University in Massachusetts, he was redesignated as a public information officer with assignments as the deputy commander at the Armed Forces Information School at Fort Slocum, New York; and to Commander, Naval Base, Long Beach, California; Bureau of Naval Personnel in Washington, D.C.; Commander, South Eastern Asia Treaty Organization, Bangkok, Thailand; Ninth Naval District at Great Lakes, Illinois; Commander, First Fleet; and Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, and Commander, Seventh Fleet, Japan. Retiring as a captain in 1974 after 35 years of active duty, he continued serving his community through engagement in local politics in the Bremerton, Washington, area. McCool died in March 2008 and is buried at Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis, Maryland.
San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ships are warships that embark, transport and land elements of a landing force for a variety of expeditionary warfare missions. They provide the Navy and Marine Corps with modern, sea-based platforms that are networked, survivable, and built to operate in the 21st century, with the MV-22 Osprey, the upgraded Amphibious Assault Vehicle and future means by which Marines are delivered ashore.
For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Forces, visit surfpac.navy.mil/com or facebook.com/SurfaceWarriors.
STORY BY JULIE ANN RIPLEY COMMANDER, NAVAL SURFACE FORCE, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET
PHOTOS BY EJ HERSOM
