Event Calendar

Social Connection

when we think about ways to increase our physical anD mental health for overall wellness, our first thoughts tend to be about diet and exercise. Sure, what we eat and how we move are critical components of a healthy lifestyle, but another component—social connection—can have just as much of a positive or negative impact on our health. As social creatures, humans learn early on that social connection is good because these types of interactions trigger the release of the feel good hormone oxytocin, which also works with other neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine to create feelings of pleasure. While feeling good is reason enough to nurture our social connections, the shared human experience and the sense of belonging that comes from finding one's tribe also contributes to a variety of physical and mental health benefits. Numerous scientific studies have found significant evidence that social connection can help people maintain a healthy body mass index, control blood sugars, improve cancer survival, decrease cardiovascular mortality, decrease depressive symptoms, mitigate the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and improve overall mental health. On the flipside, loneliness and social isolation can have a markedly negative effect on overall health and has been linked to higher risks for high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease and even death. Renowned psychologist Daniel Goleman believes that the quality and tone of our social interactions matter as well. In fact, research showed links between involvement in a distressing relationship and hikes in stress hormones to levels that damage virus fighting cells. In his book, Social Intelligence, the New Science of Human Relationships, Goleman writes. “Negative interactions also have the power to affect genes that regulate our immune system in a negative way. Nourishing relationships have a beneficial impact on our health, while toxic ones can act like a slow poison in our bodies. The social brain represents the only biological system in our bodies that continually attunes us to, and in turn becomes influenced by, the people we are with. This is why an upsetting encounter with an angry stranger can affect us for hours, which is known as ‘emotional contagion.’ But the opposite is also true—being around upbeat, happy people can also affect our physiology in a positive way.” So, what can you do to increase your social connections and improve your physical and mental health? Local Licensed Mental Health Counselor Julia Hagens says finding a group hobby and volunteering are both great ways to socialize. “I encourage my clients to find a hobby that they can enjoy with others and join a group that shares their passion,” Hagens said. “Another great way to socialize is to volunteer somewhere. Helping others relieves depression, provides social contacts and gets them out of the house. Finding a group that shares your spiritual beliefs can also provide several benefits including socialization. Exercise is also very important. Exercising in a group provides social contact as well as a boost in endorphins--two birds with one stone.” And while research shows that in-person socializing is ideal, Hagens says that making contact with friends and family through video chat or the phone can be very helpful as well. She adds that pets can be extremely helpful in alleviating feelings of loneliness and isolation—especially for those with limited mobility or other issues that limit their ability to socialize outside of their home. “Pets are magical beings that can warm our hearts, make us laugh, and give us someone to love,” she said.

Connect!

+Take a group class at

First City Art Center,

The Gordon Community

Art Center or another community organization. + Volunteer with your church, Manna Food Bank,

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida or another organization with a mission that is close to your heart.

+Make the first move—call up an acquaintance you’d like to get to know better and invite them out for coffee or a visit to one of our local museums.

Studies show that strong social connection leads to a 50% increased chance of longevity. 58% of Americans felt lonely in 2021. That number was 61% in 2019 and 54% in 2018. 59% of women & 57% of men feel lonely.

Pensacola Ice Flyers January Schedule

January Home Games and Theme Nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. Games start at varying times. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.

January 6: Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; Youth Jersey Giveaway January 14: Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; Wiener Dog Race Night January 16: Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; MLK Day Game January 20: Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; NHL Night January 21: Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; Military Appreciation Night January 27: Roanoke Rail Yard Dogs vs Ice Flyers; Bobblehead Night January 28: Roanoke Rail Yard Dogs vs Ice Flyers; Mardi Gras Night

UWF Historic Trust’s Bootleg Ball

January 13 Dress in your finest 1920s gangster attire and celebrate the troublemakers of the 20s– gangsters, mobsters, politicians, and molls at the Historic Trust’s Bootleg Ball. The Bootleg Ball serves as a fundraiser for the University of West Florida Historic Trust. Bootleg Ball will be hosted at the Museum of Commerce located at 201 Zaragoza Street. Tickets start at $100 each for UWF Historic Trust Members, $125 for non-members and $200 for VIP tickets. Doors open at 7 pm. For tickets and more information, visit historicpensacola.org.

Beethoven & Blue Jeans

January 14 Whether you dress up or dress down, join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for this annual celebration of Beethoven, anchored by the composer’s Seventh Symphony. With themes of adversity and ultimate triumph, the symphony is a notable example of Beethoven’s ebullient side. Under the baton of guest conductor Lawrence Loh, the orchestra will also perform Berlioz’s Roman Carnival, Debussy’s Prelude to The Afternoon of a Faun, along with music by contemporary composers Carlos Simon and Polina Nazakinskaya. Beethoven & Blue Jeans is hosted at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre, located at 118 South Palafox Street. The show begins at 7:30 pm. For tickets and show details, visit pensacolasymphony.com.

MLK Day Parade

January 16 After a hiatus from 2020 to 2022, The Martin Luther King Commemorative Celebration Commission announces the return of the MLK Day Parade for 2023. For 34 years, the MLKCCC has delivered this long-standing tradition that is celebrated along the streets of downtown Pensacola. The MLK Day Parade will begin at 11am and is an all-day event featuring local schools, organizations, churches, businesses and attendees from the greater Pensacola community. The parade broadcasts live on WEAR-TV and BlabTV. The parade line up will start at the intersection of Spring and Garden Streets. For more information, visit cityofpensacola. com/calendar.

TobyMac at the Pensacola Bay Center

January 26 Christian contemporary artist TobyMac is stopping by the Bay Center in January. TobyMac’s Hits Deep Tour is returning to the stage with support from fan-favorite acts such as CROWDER, Cochren & Co, Tasha Layton, Jon Reddick & Terrian. TobyMac’s Hits Deep Tour is supported nationally by KLOVE, and Air1 Radio, Food for the Hungry, and Altrua HealthShare. Doors open at 6 pm and the show begins at 7 pm. For more information, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.

Family Cooks Class: Kitchen Favorites

January 28 Pensacola Cooks is offering families and people of all ages an opportunity to get in the kitchen and learn something new. “Family Cooks Class: Kitchen Favorites” is an interactive, hands-on class where you "learn by doing" at your cooking station with provided kitchen tools. Culinary instructors Mike Selby and Denise Shelton join participants in the central cook area to teach the necessary skills and techniques for recreating some favorite restaurant-style dishes including runza, schnitzel and more. The cost to participate is $45 per student that is 18+ and $35 per student that is ages 6-17. Pensacola Cooks Commissary and Classroom is located at 3670 Barrancas Avenue. For more information, visit pensacolacooks.com.

Mike and the Moonpies at The Handlebar

January 28 Mike and the Moonpies is an American neotraditional country and Americana band based in Austin, Texas. The group was formed by singer-songwriter Mike Harmeier in 2007. Its members are Harmeier, drummer Taylor Englert, guitarist Catlin Rutherford, bassist Omar Oyoque and steel guitarist Zachary Moulton. On January 28, Mike and the Moonpies will be stopping by The Handlebar, located at 319 N Tarragona Street. The show will begin at 7 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, or $20 at the door. For tickets and more information, visit thehandlebar850.com.

27th Annual Cordova Mall Ball

January 28 The 27th Annual Cordova Mall Ball will be held on January 28. Presented by Sandy Sansing Dealerships, this event will feature live entertainment, food, a silent auction and more. Proceeds from the event go toward the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. To date, this event has generated more than $6.4 million for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, a hospital that has been dedicated to the care of children for more than 50 years. It is the only pediatric facility in the region. For tickets and more information, visit cordovamallball.com.

Tedeschi Trucks Band

January 29 Tedeschi Trucks Band is a Grammy Awardwinning 12-piece powerhouse ensemble led by the husband and wife duo of guitarist Derek Trucks and singer/guitarist Susan Tedeschi. With their own potent original songwriting alongside an extensive canon of influences, the dynamic all-star band owns a reputation for world-class musical expression bolstered by each album and every performance. Since forming in 2010, TTB’s caravan has traveled countless miles to bring its music to audiences around the world. Stop by the Pensacola Saenger Theatre, located at 118 South Palafox Street to catch the band’s show. Doors open at 6 pm and the show begins at 7 pm. For tickets and show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Brown Bag Opera

January 31 Take a lunch break with the opera, and pair your sandwich with an aria! Grab a sack lunch–or just yourself–and join us downtown for Brown Bag Opera, a free, monthly performance featuring Jan Miller Studio Artists. Musical performances include a variety of timeless showtunes, dazzling duets and stunning trios. Brown Bag Opera performances will be held at the Pensacola Opera Center located at 75 S. Tarragona Street in downtown Pensacola. Each of the performances begins at 12 pm and lasts about 45 minutes. For complete details and to view the full schedule of events, visit pensacolaopera.com.

Pensacola Mardi Gras 12th Night Celebration

January 6 The 2023 Pensacola Mardi Gras season marks the 12th year for the official Pensacola Mardi Gras 12th Night Celebration. This event has become a favorite of many to help kick-off the season. This year’s event is special, as 2023 will be the first year in a long time that Pensacola has been able to celebrate the Twelfth Night on its actual intended date of January 6. Everyone is invited to attend the celebration and enjoy a fun night filled with Mardi Gras festivities, which will of course include King Cake. The celebration will begin inside Seville Quarter at 5 pm. For more information, visit pensacolamardigras.com.

Thrillbilly Ball

January 14 Join the Krewe of Daisy Dukes for a night of fun at the Thrillbilly Ball! Hosted at Whiskey Joe’s on Pensacola Beach, this ball features all kinds of western-themed fun. Attendees are encouraged to show up in their finest western chic attire. From 8 pm until midnight, guests will enjoy live music performed by Vinyl Revival, a premium open bar, light snacks, a photo station. The Thrillbilly Ball is open to the public and tickets are $65 each. For tickets and more information, visit kreweofdaisydukespensacola.com.

2nd Annual Pawdi Gras

February 5 WolfGang's 2nd Annual Pawdi Gras is a free event open to every dog-lover in the city. As a part of Pensacola Mardi Gras and supported by the Krewe of Hip Huggers, Pawdi Gras puts a pup-centered spin on the typical Mardi Gras parade. Pawdi Gras takes place in downtown Pensacola, with Garden Street being closed down from Tarragona to Palafox. The streets will be lined with vendors, adoptable dogs, music, contests, food trucks and more. 100% of proceeds from the paw-rade will go towards this year’s benefactor, Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare. To register as a part of the event and to learn more, visit wolfgangparkandbrews.com.

NW Florida’s Business Climate

Special Section • January 2023

45 The Art of Networking; Connect, Exchange & Collaborate

Connect with other like-minded professionals in your field with this roundup of local networking groups and professional organizations. 51 Around the Region Find our what's happening in business, government and cultural news throughout greater Pensacola and Northwest Florida.

THE ART OF NETWORKING

Connect, Exchange & Collaborate

by Morgan Cole

local networking groups anD professional organizations serve as a great way to connect with other like-minDeD professionals in your fielD to exchange iDeas anD resources. Whether you're searching for a new job or simply looking to connect with other professionals in your field, Pensacola is home to numerous business networking groups and civic organizations that are always looking for new members. From community-service based groups and professional organizations to artist collectives, there are plenty of opportunities available for all types of working professionals, no matter the industry. When it comes to joining a networking group or any type of membership-based organization, it’s always a good idea to do some research to find the right fit for you. We have gathered up details on a handful of established networking groups and civic organizations to help you get started.

American Advertising Federation Pensacola (AAF Pensacola) As an affiliate of the national American Advertising Federation, AAF Pensacola is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and representing the interests of the local advertising community. This membership-based organization includes a diverse group of advertising and communications professionals networked together by common interests including traditional media, advertising, digital media, communications, sales, service, the arts and nonprofit organizations. Through monthly meetings, continued education and chapter networking events, AAF Pensacola strives to support, connect and develop local advertising professionals throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. aafpensacola.com

American Institute of Architecture Florida Northwest (AIA FL NW) As an affiliate of the American Institute of Architecture headquartered in Washington D.C., AIA Florida Northwest (AIA FL NW) is one of the nearly 200 chapters located throughout the world. This professional organization for architects offers education, government advocacy, community redevelopment and public outreach to support the architecture profession and improve its public image. AIA members adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct intended to assure clients, colleagues and the public of an architect's dedication to the highest standards in professional practice. AIA FL NW serves its members and the local architect community through local chapter meetings, networking events, professional development opportunities and more. aianwfl.com

BNI Northwest Florida BNI Northwest Florida (BMI NW Florida) is part of the world's largest business networking and referral organization, Business Networking International (BNI). This membershipbased organization is dedicated to helping businesses of all types, both large and small, to grow and increase their bottom line. BNI NW Florida serves its members through various referral and networking groups to help build consistent, proactive and reciprocal business relationships throughout the Florida Panhandle and beyond. BNI helps members develop a structured, positive and professional referral-based marketing program which provides them opportunities to multiple business tools and resources for continuing education and more. bni-nwflorida.com

Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) - Pensacola Chapter Founded in 1957, the Pensacola chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association sets the scene for professional development, business networking opportunities and more. This membership-based organization consists of members representing diverse professions within the Pensacola area. FPRA’s Pensacola chapter is home to members from for-profit corporations, health care industry, social services and notfor-profit agencies, media outlets, sports teams and associations, public relations and advertising agencies, local government and the military, among other business sectors. The chapter provides members with opportunities to connect with other members, the media and the community, as well as assisting its members grow as practitioners through local and statewide professional development offerings and accreditation. fprapensacola.com

Sertoma, Inc. Established with the purpose of contributing to the local community in as many ways as possible, Sertoma members raise funds throughout the year to support local charities and nonprofit organizations. This civic/service club’s primary mission is to serve their communities by engaging in activities to help the less fortunate. The club consists of a group of dedicated members, trained leaders and experienced volunteers who engage in serving others in need. Through philanthropic events, activities, education and support programs, Sertoma members work collectively to help make a difference. There are Sertoma clubs in cities across the county, with Pensacola being home to a few of its own. sertoma.org

The Northeast Pensacola Sertoma Club's 7th Annual Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival & Races at Bayview Park in Pensacola.

Pensacola Designers This local nonprofit organization provides networking, education and support for the local creative community. The group is committed to helping our local industry reach new heights of professionalism in the business of being creative. Through annual design conferences, semimonthly meetings, workshops and more, Pensacola Designers brings together some of the brightest minds in design to share insights, lessons and the latest on best industry practices. The group also organizes and hosts an annual design conference called DesignXL, which has been postponed for the past few years as a result of COVID-19. Pensacoladesigners.com

Pensacola LEADers Established in 1991, Pensacola LEADers is all about making leads. Through weekly membership meetings, participants will have the opportunity to generate strong business leads with other like-minded professionals and business owners throughout the community. The organization has been stimulating business opportunities through effective networking and referrals among a wide variety of individuals from all different types of industries and professions. Meetings are held each week on Wednesdays at the Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola with coffee and networking beginning at 7:30 am. pensacolaleaders.com

Pensacola Young Professionals (PYP) Pensacola Young Professionals (PYP) is a local nonprofit membership organization that brings young professionals together to share their passion for the Pensacola Bay area. Founded in 2006, PYP was established to give the young people of Pensacola a voice, a place in our community and a greater sense of belonging. The organization is run by a group of volunteers which also serve on their board and leadership team. PYP meets for monthly board meetings and hosts team meetings, professional development seminars, networking events and other special programs throughout the year for its members. The primary mission of PYP is to develop and retain young talent in the Greater Pensacola area and to serve as a catalyst for positive change in our community. pensacolayp.com

Pensacola Muralists Group This newly-formed collective was established to bring together mural and street artists from across the Pensacola community and surrounding areas. Pensacola Muralists was launched by a group of local artists who are passionate about public art in our community. The collective group of artists practice various art styles, including graffiti, lettering, realism, pop art and more. The group’s mission is to celebrate street art, strengthen Pensacola’s local art community and lift the local industry through resources and education. All types of local artists and creatives are invited to come together to exchange ideas, network, share job opportunities, gain feedback, ask for advice and share industry tips and resources. Check out the Pensacola Muralists Group on Facebook or visit firstcitymuralfest.com.

Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast (PWGC) Officially launched in 2004, Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast (PWGC) is a local nonprofit membershipbased organization fostering women’s business development and professional growth opportunities. The organization invites local women of all ages, professions and backgrounds to come together, celebrate successes, provide actionable training and tools and encourage collaboration and charitable giving. The group’s mission is to promote, advance and improve women in business through monthly networking meets, in-person social gatherings, annual conferences, individual and group coaching programs, professional seminars and more. powerfulwomengulfcoast.com

Rotary, Inc. Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who unite and take action to create lasting change in themselves and in communities across the globe. Rotary members provide service to others, promote integrity and advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through its fellowship of local business, professional and community leaders. Rotary’s 46,000+ clubs located in cities and communities across the world come together to promote peace, fight disease, provide valuable and necessary resources and aid, help save and protect mothers and children, support education, grow local economies and protect the environment. There are multiple well-established Rotary Clubs located throughout the Pensacola area. rotary.org

Baptist Health Care Foundation Announces $1 Million Gift From Henderson Family Valerie’s House Receives Donation for New Home Grief Support Center for Children Will Expand with New Location

Chad and Brooke Henderson donated a transformational gift of $1 million to the Foundation in the spirit of Chad’s grandparents, Arch and Lorraine Henderson of Pensacola, Florida. In honor of this gift, a second four-story, 80,000-square-foot medical office building to be built on the new Baptist Hospital campus will be named the Henderson Health Center. “Much like the goal of the new medical office building, my grandparents always fostered an environment of welcoming and well-being, a place to be cared for and healed,” Chad Henderson said. “One of the things that’s most important to us is to lead by example, just as our grandparents did. We are blessed and fortunate, so we want to give back and positively impact others. This is our first gift of this magnitude, and I hope it’s not the last.” Chad Henderson founded Catalyst Healthcare Real Estate more than 10 years ago. The company is based in Pensacola and has seen tremendous growth and success in the health care real estate industry, now managing assets in more than 25 states and regional offices in Milwaukee, Dallas, Atlanta and Central Florida. The Hendersons have amassed numerous memories with Baptist Health Care over the years. Their four children were all born at Baptist, and both have had parents and grandparents who have received significant and meaningful care at Baptist. They wanted to give back to Baptist in a meaningful way that would have a lasting impact for years to come. “We think about how impressive this project is and the positive influence it will have on Northwest Florida,” Brooke Henderson said. “We are grateful to live in a community with a provider like Baptist that has made such a significant long-term commitment by investing in this new campus.” For more information, visit ebaptisthealthcare.org. Valerie’s House, a non-profit in Pensacola with the sole mission of helping children grieve the death of a family member, will expand into a new home thanks to the generosity of a donation from a Pensacola foundation. The Chadbourne Foundation has donated $500,000 for the purchase of the new Valerie’s House in Pensacola. The Chadbourne Foundation, under the leadership of Caroline and Brian DeMaria, made the donation after getting to know the mission by knowing participants who benefited from attending support groups at Valerie’s House in Pensacola. Valerie’s House - The Chadbourne Foundation Home for Grieving Families will be located inside a cozy, historic home at 904 East Gadsden Street. When Valerie’s House Pensacola (VHP) started providing grief support services in late 2020; they did so without a lot of fanfare and $5,000 in the bank. VHP didn’t come to our community riding the coattails of a big capital campaign. Rather, VHP hit the ground running with its proven grief support model, and immediately started providing grief support services to more than 100 children and families. With a proven track record of implementing their mission of “no child grieves alone”; The Trustees of The Chadbourne Foundation believe our sponsorship of the new permanent location is a good fit for our philanthropy and a sound investment in our community, said Caroline C DeMaria, President, The Chadbourne Foundation. Valerie’s House - The Chadbourne Foundation Home for Grieving Families is the first free standing location in the region with its sole mission to offer ongoing grief support for children and adults at no cost to families. Valerie’s House is not a formalized counseling center, but a community and a platform for grieving families to come together and help each other through the grieving process. Valerie’s House is based on a national model and helps children share, connect, and build bonds with other kids their age. The program uses a variety of art, music and journaling activities. The vision of Valerie’s House is that no child will grieve alone. Valerie’s House Pensacola founder Crista Brandt, whose own mother died when she was 11 years old, said the new home will allow the organization to help many more grieving children in a warm and inviting environment. “We are very grateful for The Chadbourne Foundation’s generosity and their belief in our mission,” Brandt said. “This new home will be a game changer in how our community is able to help families heal after a death in their family and it is a dream come true for our families.” Valerie’s House expanded into the panhandle in late 2020 with Brandt’s leadership and in less than two years, has helped more than 100 children and their families find connection and healing in one of their various peer support groups. “When I was 11, my mother lost her battle with cancer. I didn’t know anyone that had a parent die or understand what I was dealing with,” Brandt said. “I held in my pain and it made it much worse for my family. It’s our mission to make sure no child ever has to grieve alone in our community.” Valerie’s House Pensacola has been utilizing the Big Brothers Big Sisters building off Creighton Road since opening in 2021 but has quickly outgrown the space. Brandt says Valerie’s House is looking forward to the opportunities the new house will bring in helping grieving children and families in the community. “We know grieving families need to be together and to have a place where they know they can be themselves and heal without judgment,” Brandt said. “That’s exactly what this home will be for our families. We are excited for the future.” If you would like to get involved with Valerie’s House Pensacola’s new location, including volunteering, decorating and room sponsorships, please reach out to Crista Brandt at crista@valerieshouse.org.

Photos by Deanie Sexton Photography

Around the Region

Trending Colors and Textures Inspire 2023 Home Design

over the past year, architectural Design saw a surge in nature-inspireD, earth tones, such as calming shaDes of blue anD green. Homeowners can expect this trend to continue into the coming months, but with warmer, richer colors.

This ongoing interest in warm neutrals with earthy undertones and pink and blush shades is likely to be increasingly popular in 2023 as homeowners become more adventurous with their color choices as a form of creative expression.

Trending Colors

Selecting the right colors for your home project is often influenced by both your personal preferences and the latest design trends. Some contemporary options to consider include:

• earTh Tones: Warmer, natural-looking earth tones are versatile, working seamlessly with just about any design or architectural style of home. Some trending hues include muted terracotta, green, yellow and plum.

• Warm neuTrals: Although they're not typically used as statement colors, warm neutrals bring a sense of comfort while also offering an inviting, blank canvas to let individuality flow freely. On-trend options include shades of dark brown, caramel, tan or off-white.

• riCh, dark Colors: These deep, saturated hues can make a house stand out and look more modern while still offering a nod to warmer hues. Chocolate brown, brick red or dark jade are popular choices for those who prefer rich hues.

• Pink and Blush shades: Various shades of pink, rose and blush will be increasingly popular choices for homeowners exuding a greater sense of self-expression. In home design, look for these colors to appear in coral, pink, red-orange, raspberry or blush tones.

• sWeeT PasTels: There are signs homeowners are ready to bring colors back into their homes. Expect to see sweet pastel shades like soft pink, mint green and light purple in furniture, decor and accessories.

maTerials WiTh TexTure

With warm neutrals and earth tones dominating the color palette, both interior and exterior design will depend heavily on texture to add definition. More design choices will move away from faux finishes and instead focus on natural and authentic looks, many of which can be achieved through brick and stone.

Brick and stone give designers options for adding depth and dimension, integrating a play on light and shadows with a variety of textural elements.

Brick carries a sense of tradition, character and timelessness while also serving as a popular choice for homeowners due to its design flexibility. Qualities such as low-maintenance, resilience, durability, sustainability and beauty make brick an option that allows homeowners to balance function with appearance.

Homeowners can find more than 600 brick and stone products with Glen-Gery's extensive product line that offers endless design possibilities and timeless beauty. From handmade to glazed bricks and everything in between, these building products come in a diverse array of colors, textures and sizes, making it easy to personalize living spaces with the latest design and color trends.

Try a virtual design tool like Picture Perfect, which can help you visualize projects, or find other style inspiration at glengery.com.

Bring Color WiTh BriCk

Brick is often selected for its functional benefits, but it's also an appealing building product due to its versatile color, texture and size combinations. Color can evoke a certain mood and assist in achieving a desired outcome. Often, architects and designers even incorporate multiple colors or create custom looks by using multiple brick colors and styles.

To help homeowners hone in on the perfect look to match their vision for contemporary design and align with anticipated 2023 color trends, Glen-Gery will introduce its inaugural Brick Color of the Year, a program that showcases trending hues that lend well to trending aesthetics.

Reflecting contemporary earthy, nature-inspired color trends, the Pitt Cafe Series consists of four soft, neutral-toned, versatile bricks, ranging from creamy white to earthtone and brown-gray with highly pronounced textural features. What's more, the series can be used for both interior and exterior applications for modern or contemporary designs.

Clean Energy Home Upgrades

Make Dependable Environmental Improvements

When you're considering upgrades

for your home, earth-friendly enhancements that impact your energy usage are smart investments. Energy-saving home upgrades can offer long- and short-term advantages for the earth, your wallet and even your safety.

Many homeowners evaluate their energy needs as they plan home improvements. There are several low-carbon, resilient energy options available that can help safeguard your family. Consider these environmentally friendly upgrades to diversify your home's energy sources, reduce energy consumption and ensure your home is well-prepared to withstand interruptions to power service if the electrical grid fails.

Diversify Energy Sources

The growing conversation to "electrify everything" will require an overhaul on the aging electric grid just to manage the increase in demand. Accomplishing this will take decades and cost billions, according to the Department of Energy. In fact, according to a study conducted by Acupoll Precision Research on behalf of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), 54% of respondents believe electricity for everything will be too expensive for taxpayers while 70% strongly agree Americans should have a choice when it comes to their energy source. Propane is a clean, affordable and abundant energy option that reduces carbon emissions right now. Using propane appliances like furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces and kitchen appliances alongside other energy sources reduces the strain on the fragile electrical grid. Unlike electric appliances, propane appliances can work even during power outages.

Seal In Energy

Outdated doors and windows often lack energy benefits. Newer models have stronger, thicker panes that reduce the transfer of heat from inside to outdoors (and vice versa in the warmer months). Updating doors and windows allows you to easily repair any cracks or faulty seals that make it easy for energy to escape. When your home is well-insulated, your heating or cooling system works more efficiently. Consider Solar Panels

When many homeowners think of renewable energy, they often think "solar." Some states are mandating solar adoption, and while financial rebates help, solar panels are still considered an expensive upgrade for many people. The number of panels you need depends on your geographic location and weather, as well as the size of your home and your family's energy consumption habits, which can add up. If you have access to propane and electricity, and are planning to upgrade to solar, consider adding propane appliances to offset the energy load required from your solar system.

Install a Backup Power Source

The Department of Energy's "Electric Disturbance Event Annual Report" showed an increase in power outages from 2000 to 2020. More than half of consumers nationwide indicated they or a close family member or friend have been personally impacted by a power outage in the past two years, according to PERC.

As a result, many homeowners are saying "yes" to backup power generators. A propane standby generator can be a key part of resilient home upgrades by offering supplemental electricity in as little as 10 seconds after an outage. Propane doesn't degrade over time, making it an ideal standby power fuel. Plus, it's cleaner than diesel so you can keep your home functioning and family safe while being a good steward for the environment.

Increase Energy Efficiency

While landscaping plays an important role in curb appeal, it also serves more practical purposes. Thoughtfully placed trees and shrubs can block the heat that comes from powerful direct sunlight while serving as a break against blustery winds and providing a natural form of external insulation for the home. In outdoor living spaces, propane-powered appliances can offer increased energy efficiency. For example, propane can power full outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and fire pits, patio heaters, flame lighting or pool and spa heaters.

Find more ideas and information to inspire your earth-friendly home upgrades at Propane.com.

When the Grid Fails

In 2021, a winter storm decimated a major electrical power grid, leaving thousands of Americans in the dark and cold. Some people lost their lives while others battled to overcome extensive damage to their homes and businesses.

Jennifer Borget's family is one of many that weathered those winter storms. However, the Borget family home used propane to power their water heater, stove, furnace and fireplace.

"When your power goes out, you can still use some propane appliances," said Borget, who blogged about her experience. "This is one of those things I didn't realize but learned during the historic winter storms. When the power was intermittent, our propane-powered fireplace and water heater quickly warmed our family."

One year later, the Borgets are discussing investing in a standby generator to mitigate future power outages.

Another way to reduce the risk of largescale disasters is increasing Americans' reliance on a broader mix of energy sources. Using a combination of propane, solar, electricity and natural gas can keep homes and businesses alike running efficiently and safely.

Relying on alternative energy sources like propane can also make a meaningful environmental impact in the long-term while offering short-term advantages, including continued access to power during emergencies when another energy source fails.