Pensacola Magazine, September 2024

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Note

2021 issue survived barrage loss and entire ones, kept at least will change vaccines coronavirus, some freely What has suspect it mental time positive experiences. resolutions home have uncertain. my community. is our knew it.

Kelly Oden Executive Editor

Note

EDITOR’S NOTE

Obesity, diabetes and heart disease became death sentences for too many people battling Covid. While genetics predispose some to these illnesses, many can be managed or eradicated by lifestyle changes. I’d like to focus on making healthy choices while still enjoying the bad-for-you good stuff in moderation.

There’s something magical about September along the Gulf Coast. The oppressive heat finally begins to wane, giving way to cooler mornings and evenings that hint at the coming change of seasons. The beaches, with the summer crowds gone, offer a quieter escape and the idea of camping becomes a lot more interesting.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2024

Owner & Publisher Malcolm Ballinger malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com

Executive Editor Kelly Oden kelly@ballingerpublishing.com

Art Director Ian Lett ian@ballingerpublishing.com

strange The novel in our so far been it from print with Escambia Santa quickly once The fact is, virus or be symptoms. That is community, stay possible--leaving idea, too, rather than social via world—phone encourage tribe. We bring and something this. in our see that community groups safe ways difference I must outpouring amongst my paper more than to make up applause for our

Passion and Joy

assure you equally— alone. it—the I’m over on a word: over Only suspect. pandemic the stress, distancing and things can provide more return. has had fostering know that always a sweet kitty sounds check 34. for our some

incredible special-needs pets and their owners and she discovered that while these precious babies may take a little more care, the love they give in return is worth every second.

I don’t know about you, but 2020 offered far too little of either of these to me. I was so consumed with my mom’s illness and then with surviving the grief of her loss and the anxiety of the pandemic and the sorrow of so many national news stories that I took little time for myself. This year, I hope to explore creative and personal endeavors that help me rediscover myself and discover new outlets for personal expression.

That’s why every September, we bring you a special outdoors edition of Pensacola Magazine, packed with stories and insights that encourage you to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Northwest Florida.

first responders and hospital workers? Thank you for putting yourselves on the front lines to keep us as safe as possible. Also, a big shout out to all the teachers out there scrambling to put together online lessons to keep our kids engaged and learning instead of worrying about things they cannot control. We appreciate you!

This year, our cover story delves into the fascinating history and ecology of the majestic longleaf pine—a tree that once dominated 92 million acres across the American South, but was reduced to less than 3 million by the mid-1990s. I had the pleasure of talking with Vernon Compton, Director of the Gulf Coastal Plain Ecosystem Partnership, who shared invaluable insights into why this tree is so crucial and some of the ongoing efforts to restore and protect the “king of the southern pines.”

If exotic animals are more your thing, head on over to the brand spanking new and significantly enlarged Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The new location features all the hands-on, up close interaction as the previous location plus added attractions, amenities and experiences that will make for a wonderful family day out.

Procrastination

On that note, I encourage you to read our COVID-19 Resource Guide, which provides resources for food, business, community and more. The ever-changing nature of this crisis necessitates that I mention that these resources may or may not be available to you by the time you read this issue. I hope it will provide a place to start, some ideas or some inspiration either way.

In addition, local eco-expert Christian Wagley brings us the latest on the Gulf of Mexico’s newest species discovery—the Rice’s Whale. This incredible mammal faces significant threats, and it’s important that we all learn what we can do to help secure its future.

If you’re interested in conservation, check out Dakota Parks story on local Panhandle Rooftop Nesting Biologist, Rebekah Snyder. Through her work with Audubon Florida, Snyder helps to ensure local shorebirds have safe nesting spaces in an increasingly overpopulated region.

While many people made glorious headway on home improvement and personal projects in 2020, I did not. I did not organize anything. I did not fix anything. I did not learn a language or a new skill. Nothing. But that’s ok, too. I’m still here. That’s an accomplishment. However, in 2021, I’d like to lighten my load and empty my house of much of the clutter and unnecessary junk that fills it. It’s time to make room for something new.

All of this, plus a few DIY pet treat recipes and some good news from the Florida legislature regarding protection for pets in abusive situations.

Graphic Designer/Ad Coordinator Ryan Dugger advertise@ballingerpublishing.com

Editor Morgan Cole morgan@ballingerpublishing.com

Assistant Editor Nicole Willis nicole@ballingerpublishing.com

Editorial Interns Ashlee Delaphan Katie Turman

You may also notice that we have some nonpandemic related stories in this issue. We made the call to include already planned articles that might still be helpful, relevant or enjoyable for our readers. We hope you find them useful.

September also signals the start of Santa Rosa County’s Beaches to Woodlands Tour, a 3-month-long celebration highlighting the area’s rich tapestry of art, culture, history and natural wonders. Check out some of our favorites starting on page 31.

Contributing Writers DeeDee Davis Jenny Diamond Darien Hardy Christian Wagley Quinn Breaux

Alongside these features, you’ll find recommendations for the best paddle trails and scenic paddling spots in the area, a guide to some of the coolest regional glamping sites and an introduction to the Escambia Amateur Astronomers Association—a group of dedicated stargazers eager to help you explore the night sky.

Sales & Marketing Paula Rode, Account Executive, ext. 28 paula@ballingerpublishing.com

In this issue, we’ve covered all of these topics and more to help readers shift their own focus in 2021. We hope you enjoy. Here’s to your health!

As for us, Pensacola Magazine has been published under one title or another for more than 40 years. We have no plans on changing that. We will continue to publish and to bring you all the information we can for as long as we can. Please reach out to us with story ideas, inspiration or just a quick hello. We are all working from home and we are missing our water cooler conversations.

So, turn off the news, put down your phone and enjoy these heartwarming tales and adorable of photos of local animals and the folks who care for them. When you’re done, give your kitty a little catnip and throw your dog a bone. It’s these simple pleasures that will keep us all sane.

Whether you’re drawn to the forest, the water or the stars above, this issue is sure to have something to inspire your next outdoor adventure.

Stay safe, stay healthy and stay strong, Pensacola!

Happy Trails!

Kelly Oden

Kelly Oden Executive Editor

Executive Editor

Kelly Oden Executive Editor

Geneva Strange, Account Executive, ext. 31 geneva@ballingerpublishing.com

21 E. Garden St., Ste. 205 Pensacola, FL 32502 850.433.1166 | fax: 850.435.9174 ballingerpublishing.com

Labor Day has come and gone, it’s 100 degrees outside with 300 percent humidity, tropical depressions are a continuous threat and college football is back. You know, of course, what that means? Time to start decorating for the holidays!!

I admit I get a lot of raised eyebrows when my first autumn tree goes up, but I have a perfectly logical explanation for my early dive. I want to savor every moment of the season, so if that means having friends and family think I am a crazy old lady because I bring out the fall decorations over Labor Day weekend, so be it. I have news for them. I have been doing this since I was in my 20s, it’s just a bit more extreme now. I originally started off in September with a few crotons and pumpkins, but by the time I was 40, I had to rent a storage unit to pack away my seasonal joy because it was either that or give up all closets, the attic and my children’s bedrooms. I did try once to convince my kids to just let me decorate their rooms year-round, which would have solved my problem. Ungrateful children. They both thought the idea of living permanently surrounded by jacko-lanterns or by snowmen was creepy, not festive. Thus, the storage unit. A 6-by-8-foot unit became a 10-by-12-foot sometime around age 50. My collection won’t all fit into that one little space anymore, so it has steadily encroached on our home. I blame this expansion on a wildly robust holiday retail market. Walk into any of our area gift shops and I dare

you to leave empty handed. Go to your mailbox and try to ignore the glorious glossy covers of catalogs enticing you to add more. Work on your computer and tell me you really consider unsubscribing to all of those emails preying on your senses. I am a hopeless holiday junkie, and I know that I am not alone.

So, here we are, and while my friends are frantically organizing for the autumn transformation, I am relishing every moment of the beauty. For those of you reading this and experiencing holiday envy, let me share the method to my total madness so that you can plan ahead for next year.

I begin the process on Friday afternoon with a loading trip at my storage unit. Saturday morning I lay out the bins before ESPN Game Day comes on. Next, I put on a pot of my favorite potpourri on the planet. It’s a simple recipe that a friend gave me 40 years ago and I swear it is still better than anything you can buy. In a saucepan full of water add 1/2 cup an orange, 1/2 of a lemon, 1/4 cup of whole cloves, three cinnamon sticks and five 5 bay leaves. Magic! Bring it to a boil, and then lower it to a slow simmer. Add water as needed and enjoy. Your entire room, house or apartment smells like fall, and it adds immeasurably to the day ahead filled with football and seasonal euphoria.

The tree is next. Artificial, of course, because a real one would be dead by dinner time. I stuff it full of all kinds of colorful leaves, berries, pinecones, branches, baby pumpkins, and other loveliness. The tree stays until after Mardi Gras, changing its filler with the season. Autumn evolves into Halloween and by the first week of November, you guessed it. Christmas!! Mardi Gras rounds out the season and then back to the storage bin it all goes.

Regardless of the holiday, I tackle the rest of the house after the tree. Clusters of fall bounty, cool jack-o-lanterns and happy things are the first to arrive on scene. I work in a few things my kids made in school when they were young just enough to make me go sappy for a while. But, if Auburn scores while I am strolling down nostalgia lane, I snap out of my funk pretty fast. It is a requirement to have football on while decorating because nothing screams autumn like your favorite team out to win it all. Oh, such wishful thinking.

The wreath for the door goes on last as if proudly announcing our home is ready for the holidays. This satisfaction with the finished product lasts for approximately one week, and then I can't help myself. Maybe I just have to pick up a birthday gift, but there I am. Back in retail heartland where you can be sure I will find one more little something to add to perfection.

Happy Holidays!

September Birthdays

2nd Corbett Davis III

4th Tina Tortomase

5th Crystal Spencer

12th Troy Rafferty

13th Sue Straughn

16th Tiffani Gittings

28th Robert Montgomery

30th Todd McWaters

DeeDee Davis, Contributing Writer

MANTRA CABINETS

Omni Style Kitchen & Butler’s Pantry in Bark and Mineral Finishes. Available through Spend Less Express Special Order program. Floorte Valore

“We went to several places and decided on Home Outlet for one reason: The customer service we received from Jon.”

-Mindy G., Pensacola, FL

JIM REEVES WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS TO THE IRISH POLITICIANS CLUB AT McGUIRE'S IRISH PUB

In attendance, Hunter Higdon + Pat Windham

PUMPKIN PATCH

OCTOBER 4 - 5TH, 2024 First City Art Center’s 18th Annual

Glamping Through Florida’s Panhandle

by Darien Hardy

The Florida heat is finally g etting ready to cool down as September brings with it the prime of fall. Cool breezes and beautifully colorful, natural backdrops will set the scene for more outdoor activities. After a brutally hot summer, just about everyone is itching to get out of the house and do something different. Glamping, or “glamorous camping,” is the trend that brings the comforts and luxuries of home into the great outdoors.

Many campgrounds in the Florida Panhandle offer a variety of amenities and luxurious glamping experiences for those that want to get out into nature and away from routine without sacrificing their all-important household comforts. Whether you’re looking to fall asleep under the stars during a romantic getaway with your significant other, or take advantage of the local waterways, beaches and trails, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for fun with friends and family at one of these local glamping sites.

Ranging in location and scenery from Panama City Beach to Milton, Northwest Florida’s state parks and campsites offer something for everyone. Whether you are not quite ready to rough it outdoors, or you’re an avid adventurer looking for a bit more luxury in your experience, this roundup of popular glamping spots has you covered.

Twin Lakes Camping Resort

Defuniak Springs 580 Holley King Rd. (850) 892-5914 twinlakescampresort.com

Nestled on King Lake and Holley Lake, Twin Lakes Camping Resort is the perfect spot to kick back and relax by fishing, swimming or taking a “pondtoon” boat or kayak rental out on the lake for the day. The campground features a swimming pool, bathhouse, 65 RV hook-up sites,

five cabin rentals, two lake houses and several glamping/eco tents. The cabins, lake houses and glamping tents are fully furnished with all the household comforts. Twin Lakes’ glamping tents put the glamor in glamping with running water, sinks, toilets, a small fridge, a microwave, fire pits with cooking grills, a large cooler for drinks, picnic tables and AC/heat. Don’t forget your furry companion—many of the rental suites and glamping tents are pet friendly! Visit the Twin Lakes website for more property details and help with booking a stay.

Camping on the Gulf

Miramar Beach

10005 Emerald Coast Parkway W. (850) 502-5282

campingonthegulf.com

Of all the beautiful lakes, rivers and creeks in the Panhandle, we can’t forget about glamping on the beach! Camping on the Gulf is located on Miramar Beach and offers the most luxurious beach get-away trip. Dig your toes into the sand by taking a short walk from the campground to the beach. Along with RV hook-ups, cabins and beach house rentals, Camping on the Gulf now offers small and large glamping tents. The small tents feature two single beds, a stand-alone AC, covered porch and a charging station for electronics. The upgrade to the large tent features a kitchen, bathroom, king beds, a sofa, a TV and several other amenities. Be sure to check out Camping on the Gulf’s recreational rentals like golf carts, paddle boards and floating islands, as well as the pool featuring a big water slide and other amenities on the Camping on the Gulf website.

Grayton Beach State Park

Santa Rosa Beach

357 Main Park Rd. (850) 267-8300

floridastateparks.org/graytonbeach

At nearly 2,000 acres, Grayton Beach State Park is more than a backdrop for golden sunrises and silver moonlit evenings. Soaking in warm gulf breezes while relaxing on pristine Grayton Beach might be the main attraction, but that’s only one aspect of this gorgeous state park. Western Lake offers fishing and paddling, and those who want to explore on foot have four miles of trails through a coastal forest where scrub oaks and magnolias are bent and twisted by salt winds to traverse. Among other natural experiences such as biking, paddling, wildlife viewing and more, Grayton Beach offers a scenic backdrop for overnight camping. An overnight excursion yields its own unique experience with a stay in one of the well outfitted cabins or a more rustic accommodation at one of Grayton’s cozy campgrounds. Learn more about Grayton Beach’s many amenities and visitor fees on the state park’s website.

Aluminum Cabana at My Cabana Club Navarre

8315 Navarre Parkway (855) 566-5938

mycabanaclub.com

When looking for a comfortable and luxurious vacation experience, gaze no further than My Cabana Club’s fully equipped Aluminum Cabana Airstream coach. Overnight guests can relax in the spacious sitting area, complete with a flat-screen TV, or gather around the dinette table for a meal with family and friends. The stocked kitchen has everything you need to cook up a storm, including a range, refrigerator, microwave/ convection oven and ample storage. All dishes, utensils and cookware needed are included in the cabana, so guests may indulge in gourmet meals during their vacation. Also included is a Keurig coffee maker for all the caffeination needs. The private master suite features an additional flat-screen TV, a convertible sofa, and a convertible dinette, ensuring every member of the party has plenty of space to relax and unwind. The private bath features a separate shower, and the entire coach is fully air conditioned and heated for comfort in all weather conditions. Visit the My Cabana Club website to check out all the luxurious resort amenities and book your glamped-out stay in one of the Aluminum Cabanas.

Camping on the Gulf's large glamping tent

Aluminum Cabana

Eco-Tents at St. Andrews State Park

Panama City Beach

4607 State Park Lane (850) 919-6274

floridastateparks.org/parks-andtrails/st-andrews-state-park

With the Gulf of Mexico on one side and St. Andrews Bay on the other, visitors who crave swimming, snorkeling or surfing will be more than satisfied with St. Andrews State Park’s five distinct ecological landscapes. Now, state park visitors can also experience sugar white sands, emerald green waters and a vast array of everchanging winged creatures. The park is a popular migratory stopover for numerous bird and butterfly species. Besides boasting a mile-and-a-half of pristine beaches for fishing and swimming, St. Andrews also offers the chance for visitors to stroll through pines, along dunes and within coastal plant communities. For those looking for a more lush experience, glamping is also now available at St. Andrews State Park. Unplug, relax and reconnect with nature in one of three available eco-tents, each of which sleeps three people and includes a glamorous coffee station and a relaxing porch. Modern luxuries include electricity, a queen bed, a twin-sized cot and many other amenities. Each eco-tent

offers bayside water views and is in closeproximity to bathhouses, golf cart rentals and the Land’s End Grill food truck. For more information on St. Andrews’ amenities and instruction on how to book a stay, visit the state park’s website.

Coldwater Gardens

Milton 7009 Creek Stone Rd. (850) 426-1300

coldwatergardens.com

Running alongside Big Coldwater Creek, Coldwater Gardens is home to beautiful glamping accommodations, several gardens to tour featuring produce, European honeybees, aquaponics, hydroponics and, of course, the creek to swim in and enjoy. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations including hillside tent camping, platform tent camping, a tiny-house cabana, glamping tents, eco-design cottages and a modern treehouse. Whether you want to try out tiny living, gaze at the stars from the treehouse or stargazer platforms, or kick back in the luxury glamping tents, Coldwater Gardens has you covered. Check out Coldwater Gardens’ website for more information about the property’s accommodations and booking a stay.

Glamping Essentials

Glamping is designed to make your stay as carefree as possible. Unlike a traditional camping trip where you’d haul all the dusty gear out of the garage, these glamping experiences provide nearly everything you need to make yourself at home—including a morning cup of joe. Many campsites still recommend guests bring some extra items to make sure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

• Comfy exploration clothes and hiking boots

• Toiletries, towels and shower shoes

• Groceries: food, water, cooler, ice, etc.

• Coffee grounds and sweet creamers

• Cooking supplies: pots, pans, cooking utensils, etc.

• Lighter for camp stove and cheap fire starter or kindling for fire pit

• Bug spray and flashlights

• Beach supplies: sun block, bathing suit, beach umbrella, etc.

• Picnicware: plates, cups, mugs, silverware, etc.

Luxury glamping tent at Coldwater Gardens

A WONDER OF A WHALE

Understanding and Protecting the Endangered Rice’s Whale

By Christian Wagley

Swimming some 30 miles offshore from Pensacola, a magnificent animal with 40 feet of streamlined dark gray body rises above the surface and takes a breath before diving hundreds of feet to the bottom in search of food.

It’s a whale, and with fewer than 100 of its kind remaining, it’s one of the rarest and most endangered whales on the planet. It’s the Rice’s whale, and without quick action to protect them, these animals that play a vital role in the health of the Gulf could be lost forever.

Rice’s whales were first formally documented by scientists in 1965. However, for decades they were believed to be a subspecies of the Bryde’s whale, which ranges across temperate regions worldwide.

In 2019, a whale came ashore on the Florida Gulf coast and later died. Scientists took this rare opportunity to engage in more detailed study of the deceased animal, including genetic research, which confirmed that they are a fully distinct species. They were then named the Rice’s whale after longtime researcher Dale Rice, the first scientist to write about the whales in the 1960s. This announcement of the whales as a new species is what first brought them into the larger public eye.

Rice’s whales are found only in the Gulf of Mexico and have been observed off all U.S. Gulf states and Mexico, but they are most common off northwest Florida— the quietest and least industrial part of the Gulf, and the only state without offshore drilling off its coast. Fishermen and scientists from Florida to Texas report occasional sightings, posting videos and photos to social media to help raise awareness about the whales.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) lists the greatest threats to the whales as vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, energy exploration, ingestion of marine debris, proposed aquaculture activities, oil spills and noise from industrial activities such as oil drilling and ship traffic. Scientists estimate that the 2010 BP oil disaster caused a 22 percent decline in the whale’s population, and it is believed that their numbers continue to decline.

Research and monitoring have found that a suitable habitat for the whales exists along an offshore dropoff where depths range from about 300 to 1,300 feet, and NOAA plans to formally designate this area in the Gulf as critical habitat for the whales. With that, certain offshore activities will be reviewed for their impact on Rice’s whales, affording them some additional protection.

This has already been done for decades for Gulf coast marine life such as sea turtles and manatees, ensuring they have safe space in which to live while working to minimize impacts to various user groups and economic interests. These protections come from the Endangered Species Act, which enshrines in U.S. law that Americans value the wildlife we share our nation with, and we will not allow species to go extinct due to our actions. Popular Gulf coast animals like brown pelicans and bald eagles have already recovered and been removed from endangered status due to protections under the Act.

Rice’s whales play a vital role in enhancing the ecology of the Gulf, as they are known to help redistribute nutrients in a way that makes offshore areas more productive for fish such as marlin, tuna and wahoo. When they feed on schooling fish at depth and return to the surface, the whales bring up nutrients that enhance the growth of tiny plankton that form the base of the marine food chain.

Residents of Northwest Florida have picked up the cause of the whales, just as they have for other local wildlife. Last April, the first Gulf Coast Whale Festival was held on Pensacola Beach, with attendees enjoying life-sized inflatable

Rice's Whale.

Photo by Paul Nagelkirk, courtesy of NOAA

whales, whale art, education and more.

Many local artists have made Rice’s whales part of their work, with paintings, murals, jewelry and other whale designs showing-up at festivals and events.

Boaters are helping out as well, as offshore sailors and fishermen capture photos and videos of the whales (while keeping a safe distance) and report whale sightings to (877) WHALE HELP (877) 942-5343. This helps scientists learn more about the whales and their habits.

Others are engaging with whale education and conservation measures and helping to shift our communities toward energy conservation and solar energy, reducing the need for offshore

drilling and the threats it brings to whales. That includes conserving energy both at home and in the workplace, and transitioning to solar energy as the primary energy source. There’s also a growing movement to retrofit communities to make them more walkable and bikeable, giving residents choices in how to get around every day, and in doing so, helping to make the Gulf of Mexico a cleaner and quieter place for all marine life.

This level of engagement and care shows that humans care about things larger than themselves, whether it’s an endangered species of whale or the larger health of the Gulf ecosystem.

There is a compelling sense of awe we feel from large and charismatic animals like whales, sea turtles and dolphins. Another explanation comes from the famous biologist E.O. Wilson, who grew up along the Gulf Coast and spent part of his boyhood in Pensacola. Wilson coined the term biophilia, describing it as the innate tendency of humans to seek connections with nature. As we connect with Rice’s whales and work for their conservation, we are guided by an affinity for the natural world that is inside each one of us.

To learn more about the Rice’s whale and current conservation efforts, visit fisheries.noaa.gov. or ourgulfwhale.org.

For Boaters

• Stay Alert—Know what whales look like at the surface and watch for them.

• Slow down—Run 10 knots slower where whales are known to occur.

• Keep Your Distance—Enjoy whales from a safe distance of at least 100 yards. Support Conservation Actions!

• Support whale education and conservation measures such as vessel slowdown zones.

• Take steps to conserve energy in your home or business and support renewable energy in your community.

Iluustrations by Dawn Witherington

Iluustrations by Dawn Witherington

WOODLANDS

BEACHES TO CELEBRATING

Zip-line through fall foliage. Find your way through a corn maze. Meet your new favorite artist. Fish, run races and eat like a local. Beaches to Woodlands features events from the shoreline of Navarre Beach, the streets of Historic Downtown Milton to the serene trails of Blackwater River State Forest. Experience the best of Santa Rosa County this fall.

Bands on the Blackwater Fall Concert Series

Friday Nights in Sept. & Oct.

Bands Start at 7 pm

5158 Willing St., Milton, FL facebook.com/bandsontheblackwater

Fall Foliage

Zipline Tours

Sept. – Nov.

8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd., Milton, FL adventuresunlimited.com

34th Annual Juana

Good Time Regatta

The Wish for Wind Party:

Sept. 6 | 6–9 pm

Sailboat Races:

Sept. 7 & 8 | 11 am – 4 pm

1451 Navarre Beach Cswy., Navarre Beach, FL jaunaspagodas.com/regattanews.htm

Oktoberfest at Ye Olde

Brothers Brewery

Sept. 25 – 29 | 11 am – 9 pm 4458 Hwy 87, Navarre, FL yeoldebrothersbrewery.com

Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch & Maze

Sept. 21 – Nov. 3

Sun. – Sat. | 8 am – 6 pm

2055 Homer Holland Rd., Milton, FL hollandfarmsonline.com

14th Annual Sweet Season Farms Corn Maze

Sept. 28 – Nov. 2

Sat., 9 am – 5 pm, Sun., 11 am – 5 pm

2260 Horn Rd., Milton, FL sweetseasonsfarm.com

Navarre Fishing Rodeo

Oct. 5 & 6

Tournament opens at 12:01 am Sat. Closes at 4 pm Sun. 1451 Navarre Beach Cswy., Navarre Beach, FL navarrebeachfishingrodeo.com

St. Michael’s Brewing Co.

4th Anniversary Bash

Oct. 12 & 13 | 12 – 7 pm

2199 Hwy. 87, Navarre, FL stmichaelsbrewingco.com

Depot Day at the West Florida

Railroad Museum

Oct. 12 | 10 am – 3 pm

5003 Henry St., Milton, FL wfrm.org

Boo at the Zoo: Trick or Treat Trail

Oct. 12–13, 19–20, 26–27

10 am – 5 pm

5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., Gulf Breeze, FL gbzoo.com

4th Annual BattyFangtastic Halloween

Oct. 19 | 3 pm – 7 pm

3051 Cloptons Circle, Navarre, FL emeraldcoastwildliferefuge.org

Fenner McConnell/ Mark Wantz Blackwater Heritage Century Ride

Oct. 26 | 7:30 am

5629 Byrom St., Downtown Milton bbbsnwfl.org/events/fenner-ride

Looking Up

Stargazing with the Escambia Amateur Astronomy Association

by Jenny Diamond

No one who lives in our area can deny the beauty of the sun setting over the bay or how awe-inspiring it can be to see a full moon rising over the Gulf. Humans have always been fascinated with the celestial bodies above us. We look to the sky to see beauty, to understand our own lives, to predict the future and even to search for the possibility of life outside of our own planet.

For those new to astronomy, it can be intimidating to know which equipment to use and how to make sense of what you’re seeing, but one local group aims to make astronomy accessible to all.

The Escambia Amateur Astronomy Association (EAAA) is a member of the Astronomical League, which is an umbrella organization of amateur astronomy groups currently consisting of more than 300 groups nationwide.

The EAAA has been around in some form since the 1960s, when a few small groups of local high schoolers merged and began holding astronomy events together. The club was inactive for many years as some of its initial members left the area to attend college, but was revived in the 1970s by Robert Blake.

Like the moon itself, the club’s membership has waxed and waned over the years, with about twenty duespaying members in its early years. While membership grew to around 150 dues-paying members during the time of Halley's Comet in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the club currently has around 70 regular members. However, the group’s Facebook page has more than 4,000 members worldwide who regularly share their outings and photographs, along with descriptions of what the photos entail and information on the equipment they used.

Photo by James Schultz.

In addition to sharing beautiful, telescoped photographs among members, the group’s main focus is to get people outside viewing the skies, and everyone is welcome–from “novice to super space nerd.” To that end, the group hosts regular stargazing events at various locations around our area, namely the Casino Beach pavilion, Big Lagoon State Park and the large field off Langley Avenue adjacent to the Pensacola International Airport.

The stargazing events are dependent on the weather, of course, but clouds and rain aside, gazes usually begin in the late afternoon shortly before sunset. Dr. Wayne Wooten, one of the founding members and a current group facilitator, notes that there is a core group of about ten people who are dedicated to setting up telescopes for gazes. At the Casino Beach events, the group’s gazes usually draw crowds of around 200 to 300 people, and the gazes at Big Lagoon draw smaller crowds of around 50 people. Before sunset, the telescopes are set up to allow attendees to view the sun and solar flares. Once the sun sets and the moon rises, telescopes will be set to the moon, various constellations and visible planets. The telescopes set up for public gazes aren’t the typical telescopes with a single eye-piece that can only be used by one person at a time; rather, these digital telescopes allow viewers to connect their smartphones via Bluetooth, so many attendees are able to view telescoped images at once. Viewers can zoom in and out, take photographs and link to astronomy apps like Nocturne, which helps identify constellations and details their mythological origins.

“You’re walking around with an astronomical observatory in your pocket,” Dr. Wooten noted. “When we set up at the beach, we’re able to get views of the Milky Way over the Gulf, where there is no light pollution to the south. In an hour or two of gazing, you’ll go home with pictures of nebulas, galaxies, planets, globular clusters.”

Needle galaxy. Photo by James Schultz.

Veil Neblua. Photo by James Schultz.

Sol Nebula in SHO. Photo by James Schultz.

Crescent Nebula. Photo by James Schlutz.

Eagle Nebula HOO. Photo by James Schultz.

Solar eclipse in Conway, AR on April 8, 2004.

Andromeda Galaxy. Photo by Floyd Griffith.

EAAA members distribute star charts to help viewers understand what they’re seeing, and each gaze has a dedicated Sky Interpreter, who helps explain the technology, the visible features, and generally helps guide viewers. Over the winter, regularly scheduled gazes will take place exclusively at Big Lagoon, which does have a small entrance fee, but on clear nights with good viewing potential, Dr. Wooten is likely to announce an impromptu gaze at the field adjacent to the airport at the intersection of Langley Ave. and McAllister Ave. Nicknamed the Starlight Drive-In Theater, the field provides a centrally located opportunity for viewers to gather and connect to the telescopes from the comfort of their own cars.

In addition to the EAAA, those who are interested in learning more about astronomy should visit the Pensacola State College Planetarium and Space Theater, where small groups can schedule viewings of a number of current films, all related to science and or astronomy. Additionally, there are public viewings on the first Friday of each month for $6/attendee; these showings usually fill up, leaving standing room only. The next showing will be September 6 at 6 pm, featuring the film Death of the Dinosaurs followed by a live night sky narration hosted by Planetarium Specialist Allison Spradlin. For Dr. Wooten, these Planetarium shows are not only valuable for the local community, but also hold personal value given his late wife Merry’s dedication

to the Planetarium; she hosted Planetarium shows for twelve years. After her death in 2021, the Merry Edenton-Wooten Endowed Chair for Space Sciences was established to support Spradlin’s position. In addition, the Planetarium’s lobby is named the Merry Edenton-Wooten Foyer and features Merry’s artwork.

Though Wooten has been teaching college astronomy classes since the 1970s and is highly published in the field, he notes the absolute potential and importance of continuing to invest in new generations of amateur astronomers.

“Intelligence is important. We try to involve whole families, especially kids. Every kid dreams about being an astronaut. The best way to combat anti-science emphasis is to show people what science is, how it works, how much fun it is, how it can be a career, how it can be a hobby and how it can widen our horizons,” Wooten said.

Those interested in attending the upcoming stargazing events can view the EAAA’s Facebook page for more information and the calendar of scheduled gazes.

Veil Nebula. Photo by James Schultz.

Happy Trails Explore the Waterways of Northwest Florida

by Morgan Cole

From flowing rivers and spring-fed creeks to salty tidal waterways and winding bayous, Northwest Florida’s unique coastal landscape supports a number of diverse habitats and ecosystems.

Our region’s impressive river system connects a network of diverse and pristine waterways, making it a top destination for all types of paddling adventures.

Whether you prefer to paddleboard, kayak or canoe, there’s no better way to take in all that nature has to offer. Not only are paddling vessels relatively cheap compared to other types of watercraft, they’re easy to transport, easy to use and provide access to areas and experiences that larger vessels can’t.

With an abundance of bays, bayous, rivers and creeks, Northwest Florida is rich with paddling opportunities and home to a number of designated paddling trails. Blackwater River, Big Lagoon State Park and Escambia Bay

Photos courtesy of Visit Pensacola & Florida Department of Environmental Protection

are some of the most popular paddling destinations for locals and visitors alike.

The Pensacola Bay Area also marks the beginning of Florida’s longest and most ambitious sea kayaking trail, the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail (CT). This 1,515-mile epic sea journey is referred to as the aquatic version of the Appalachian Trail, and it begins here at our very own Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Beginning at Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola, extending around the Florida peninsula and Keys, and ending at Fort Clinch State Park near the Georgia border, the trail is divided into 26 sections across the state. Fortunately, there’s plenty to experience here within our local section alone.

From state and nationally designated paddle trails to scenic byway routes, experience all the natural beauty our region has to offer by paddling some or all of these local waterways and designated paddle trails.

State Designated Paddling Trails of Northwest Florida

Perdido River

Location: Escambia County (Pensacola)

Trail length: 15-mile designated trail (65 miles total)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Perdido River flows about 44 miles from southern Alabama to Perdido Bay, forming Florida’s western border with Alabama. Perdido River was named by the Spaniards who occupied the area until 1813, and the name is translated as "lost.” The river curves past extensive woodlands of pine, cypress and juniper cedar while numerous sandbars offer ideal rest spots. The sparkling waters are often tinted with yellow or redblack tannins from swamp vegetation, a natural occurrence. The river and its tributaries also support several species of rare and imperiled fish. Several small sloughs provide additional paddling opportunities, and numerous sandbars

offer ideal rest spots. This easy 15.4-mile paddling trail is a classic Panhandle river with tea-colored water cradled by white sandbars. The river is narrow, twisting and fast-moving in the upper stretches then becomes wider and slower as it nears Perdido Bay. The popular 4-mile segment from Fillingim Landing to the Pipes Landing offers a short day trip with scenic beauty, little development and is perfect for beginners. From the Pipes Landing to Sand Landing, the river becomes wider and much slower, with fewer sandbars.

Launch Points:

• Fillingim Landing

• Pipes Landing

• Outfitter (Adventures Perdido)

• Sand Landing, Launch at US-90

For trail maps and directions to public access launch sites listed above, visit bit.ly/PerdidoRiverTrail.

Blackwater River

Location: Okaloosa and Santa Rosa Counties (Blackwater River State Forest) Trail length: 31-mile designated trail (56 miles total)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Originating in the Conecuh National Forest in Alabama, this winding stream flows into Florida through the unspoiled Blackwater River State Forest. Trees line the banks and form a dense canopy over portions of the river. High bluffs occur in some sections where oak, pine and cedar trees tower above paddlers. The water is coffee colored, the reason why Creek Indians called the river “Oka Lusa” (“black water”). White sandbars provide a perfect place for camping, resting or picnicking along the way. The 31-mile Florida Designated Paddling Trail begins at Kennedy Bridge, about 5 miles south of the Alabama border, and ends at Deaton Bridge in the Blackwater River State Forest. There are a few deeper sections, but the river generally flows shallow, swift and wide. The lower portion of this popular 31-mile paddling trail can become congested with people floating in tubes near the state park, especially on weekends. Paddlers should check streamflow data and weather conditions before embarking on a trip. The river is not navigable below the Deaton Bridge in Blackwater River State Park, be sure to exit here. Glass containers are prohibited on the river.

Tips: Heavy rains can cause the river to rise quickly and become dangerous. Tubing is popular along the river, so expect large crowds in the lower section (just past Bryant Bridge) during summer weekends and holidays. Bring plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen.

Launch Points:

• Kennedy Bridge

• Peadon Bridge (unimproved)

• Cotton Bridge

• Bryant Bridge

• State Forest public boat ramp

• Johnson's Float Launch & Deaton Bridge Road

For trail maps and directions to public access launch sites listed above, visit bit.ly/BlkWaterRiver.

Yellow River

Location: Santa Rosa and Okaloosa Counties (Crestview, Milton and Milligan) Trail length: 54-mile designated trail (118 miles total)

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Located in the western Panhandle, the upper Yellow River drains the state’s highest elevation. As a result, the current is faster than most north Florida rivers. The upper Yellow River takes paddlers along limestone banks that give way to sand and gravel banks downstream. Hardwood forests frame the shallow, golden water. Farther downstream, the river deepens and slows as it passes through cypress and gum swamps. The river is joined by the Shoal River, another designated paddling trail, located near Crestview. Fishing is excellent and wildlife abundant as the river winds through miles of public conservation lands. The degree of difficulty of this 54-mile trail depends entirely on water levels, which can fluctuate dramatically in a short period of time. The 18-mile section between SR 2 and US 90 is the best section for paddlers with a number of significant sandbars offering comfortable overnight camping. Public access points below US 90 and the Ellis Road boat ramp are limited and paddlers are likely to encounter powerboat traffic. Pay attention to posted boundaries to avoid camping on private land.

Launch points:

• CR 2 Bridge (Oak Grove)

*Start of trail

• Reedy Landing

• Milligan Park

• Rivers Edge RV Park

• Guest Lake Ramp

• Log Lake Ramp

• SR 87 Bridge *End of trail

For trail maps and directions to public access launch points listed above, visit bit.ly/YellowRiverTrail.

Coldwater Creek

Location: Santa Rosa County (Milton)

Trail length: 19 miles

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Flowing through the Blackwater River State Forest, Coldwater Creek is one of the most beautiful and popular paddling sites in the region. This lovely creek is spring fed and has some of the swiftest water in Florida. The shallow water is always pleasantly cool and makes for a perfect paddle for all ages and skill levels. Flowing for nearly 20 miles through undeveloped land, it is very narrow in spots with a steep gradient. The sandy bottom and broad sandbars will remind you of nearby Gulf Coast beaches, with many sandbars along the banks for stretching, picnicking or camping. A brisk downstream current helps carry you past pine and hardwood forests. Some mini-rapids along the creek add variety and a paddling challenge. In the dry season, it may be necessary to pull your kayak or canoe over the

sandbars. The upper creek is within the undeveloped and remote Blackwater River State Forest. Further downstream (past Gordon Landing), there are a few private homes and docks along the creek, but overall this is a rural and beautiful paddle. Coldwater Creek is a popular hangout spot during the summer months, with many tubers and kayakers (especially in the area close to Adventures Unlimited). Water levels may vary depending on rainfall, so check with local outfitters for current conditions.

Launch Points:

• SR 4 Bridge

• Coldwater Recreation Area (Gordon Landing)

• Adventures Unlimited

• Old Steel Bridge (Lower Section)

• CR 191 Bridge

• Wagner Bridge (Middle Section)

• SR 191 (Lower Section)

For trail maps and directions to public access launch points listed above, visit bit.ly/ColdwaterCreekTrail.

Juniper Creek

Location: Santa Rosa County (Milton)

Trail length: 6 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Paddle this historic stream beginning at Red Rock Bridge, which is believed to be the location where Andrew Jackson and his forces crossed the river during the First Seminole War. Juniper Creek has gentle curves, some small bluffs and shallow, gold-tinted waters. Look for the white blossoms of mountain laurel lining the shore during spring. The hardwood forest includes pine, juniper, cypress and magnolia. The creek has areas with banks ranging from 5 to 10 feet high, and many sandbars for stretching or picnicking along the way. Camping is also allowed. This is an easy scenic 6-mile trip, suitable for beginners. Paddlers will enjoy a moderate current and a mostly sandy bottom, with few if any obstructions. Paddle from Red Rock Road Bridge to Indian Ford Road. Be sure to exit at Indian Ford Road as the river is not navigable further downstream. Little to no crowds make this paddling destination a local favorite.

Launch Points:

• Red Rock Road bridge

• Indian Ford Road bridge

For trail maps and directions to public access launch points listed above, visit bit.ly/JuniperCreekTrail.

Other Local Paddling Experiences:

Big Sabine Bay

Big Sabine Bay is a beautiful shallow bay located on the east side of Pensacola Beach. The area is predominantly a salt marsh with shallow creeks to explore. The landscape includes dunes, pine groves and salt marshes. The wildlife includes crabs, rays and other marine life. Overhead, herons, gulls, osprey, bald eagles and owls take the sky hunting their next meal. Fish common to the area are flounder, mullet, redfish, sea horses, sea turtles and the occasional shark. Manatees have also been seen enjoying the grass beds in the area. Big Sabine is located to the east of Pensacola Beach, approximately two miles from Portofino. To access Big Sabine, you can trek through the sand with your gear, paddle from Pensacola Beach or catch a ride on a boat. If you are carrying boards or kayaks, be prepared for a little walk.

Big Lagoon State Park

Located in Big Lagoon State Park, Big Lagoon is separated from the Gulf of Mexico by Perdido Key. Big Lagoon, much like Big Sabine Bay, is a paddling paradise through coastal salt marshes. The park has a designated kayak launch, which makes it easy to access the water. There is a good variety of exploring in the park.

You can explore a tidal creek, a lagoon and the open water from the kayak launch. Big Lagoon State Park also serves as the northwestern terminus of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The calm, shallow waters of Big Lagoon and three ponds within the park make it an ideal place for paddling. Big Lagoon State Park is situated on the northern shoreline of the lagoon and features boardwalks, a boat ramp and boat launch, an amphitheater, observation tower, picnic pavilions and more. Kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals are also available. Big Lagoon State Park is located at 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy. For park hours, visit floridastateparks.org/BigLagoon.

Pond Creek

The headwaters of Pond Creek are found in the uplands of Chumuckla in Santa Rosa County, Florida. From an elevation of 200 feet, Pond Creek flows for more than 22 miles before it empties into Blackwater River. Originating from rainwater collections in tupelo-cypress and seepage swamps, numerous branches and smaller creeks form and converge into Pond Creek. In the central portion, Pond Creek flows through approximately one-half mile of the Santa Rosa Creek Band of the Lower Muscogee tribal grounds. These tribal grounds amount to 93.43 acres of mostly wooded forest which are used as a wildlife sanctuary for the release of rescued and rehabilitated wildlife. Pond Creek meanders a few miles past Arcadia Mill before reaching Mayo Park Kayak Launch. As the creek gradually widens, a series of oxbow lakes offer many options for exploration. You can access Pond Creek from Mayo Park, which is located just off Highway 90 in Milton.

White Island

White Island is a small island located in Pensacola Bay. This small island is a paddler’s paradise and a great place to kayak or paddleboard in Pensacola Bay. You will find this island where Davenport Bayou and Bayou Grande enter the bay. To access White Island launch from Civitan Park (404 S. 2nd St.) or the Navy Point Boat Ramp (10 Greve Rd.) in Pensacola.

Woodlands Beaches to

Santa Rosa County’s Annual Fall Event Series

By Nicole Willis

As we enter September and the weather in Northwest Florida becomes more bearable, it is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fall festivities. This season also brings Santa Rosa County’s annual Beaches to Woodlands event series, an aptly named celebration featuring a wide range of familyfriendly activities from exploring the beautiful beaches to roaming the scenic woodlands, and everywhere in between.

Whether you want to embrace the pumpkin patches of Halloween, the German fare of Oktoberfest or anything else that the season brings about, Beaches to Woodlands has something sure to excite you and your family. This event series runs from September to November, providing plenty of opportunities to explore the wonderful historical and cultural happenings that Santa Rosa County has to offer.

“Santa Rosa County truly embodies the essence of Beaches to Woodlands, offering an unparalleled blend of experiences,” Assistant Tourist Development Director Monica McBrien said.. “From exhilarating fishing tournaments on the Gulf of Mexico to the charming pumpkin patches that dot the northern landscape, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This is the perfect time to explore our diverse offerings and create unforgettable memories this fall.”

With the 21st anniversary of Beaches to Woodlands beginning to unfold, here is a look into some of the series’ most anticipated events.

Learn more about this year's event series at getrelaxing.com/get-inspired.

Guy Stevens, Santa Rosa County Tourist Development Office

Bands on the Blackwater

Bands on the Blackwater is a free outdoor concert series held every fall along the west bank of the Blackwater River in Milton. This fall concert series features live outdoor music in a relaxed family-friendly environment. The lineup offers a variety of music from local favorites to national touring bands performing Bluegrass, country, blues and rock and roll. Local food vendors will be on-site dishing up delicious eats. Attendees are welcome to bring blankets, chairs and coolers to set up in the grass. If you have a boat, anchor up in the river and enjoy the music. Concerts are held on Friday nights from 7 to 9 pm at Jernigan’s Landing located at 5158 South Willing St. in downtown Milton. Check out @BandsOnTheBlackwater on Facebook for updates and more information.

Fall 2024 Schedule:

September 6 - Six Piece Suits

September 13 - Chase Mitchell

September 20 - Doc Johnson Band

September 27 - Bad Juju

October 4 - The New Cahoots

October 11 - 3 Day Weekend

October 18 - Horseshoe Kitty

October 25 - Ben Loftin & the Family

34th Annual Juana Good Time Regatta

The 34th Annual Juana Good Time Regatta welcomes both seasoned and novice sailors for a fun-filled weekend of racing, partying, food, drinks and live music. Open to all sizes of multihull sailboats—from beach cats and trimarans to cruisers and more—the regatta runs from September 6 to 8. Festivities kick off on Friday at 6 pm with The Wish for Wind Party featuring packet pick-up, complimentary draft beer, light snacks and $4 Blue Chair Bay Rum at Juana’s Pagodas. Races begin on Saturday and Sunday morning, running from around 11 am to the midafternoon. The Good Time Regatta comes to a close on Sunday evening with an awards party. Juana’s Pagodas is located at 1451 Navarre Beach Causeway in Navarre. For more information, visit juanaspagodas.com/RegattaNews.htm.

Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch

Holland Farms allows guests to enjoy all the wonderful fall things in one place! For classic fall fun, peruse the pumpkin patch to pick the best one, take a hayride around the farm or try to make it through the 8-acre corn maze. The kiddos can enjoy a near-mile-long train ride around the farm, the innertube hill slide or the kiddie maze. Additional activities include corn box, horse and regular swings, zip lines, pedal tractor cart racing, hill slides and more. After a long day of activities, enjoy a free cup of the farm’s famous homegrown boiled peanuts. Holland Farms is open daily from September 21 to November 3. The farm opens at 8 am and closes at 6 pm each day. Holland Farms is located at 2055 Homer Holland Rd. in Milton. For more information, visit hollandfarmsonline.com.

Navarre Fishing Rodeo

Show off your fishing skills at the Navarre Fishing Rodeo. Compete with other local anglers for prizes in all divisions. On both Saturday and Sunday, weighin is from 1 to 4 pm at Juana’s Pagoda Deck, close to the Santa Rosa County Boat Ramp and parking. A recommended Captain’s Meeting will be held on October 4 at Juana’s Pagoda, located at 1451 Navarre Beach Causeway in Navarre. Young anglers can participate in the fishing rodeo, too. Up to two junior anglers twelve and under can compete in the Junior Division for free with each paid rodeo admission. Proceeds from this event will go to the Navarre Chamber Foundation, which in turn benefits the Navarre Beach Marine Park. For tickets and more information, visit navarrefishingrodeo.com.

Boo at the Zoo

Get in the Halloween spirit at Boo at the Zoo! In the three weekends leading up to Halloween, the Gulf Breeze Zoo will host six exciting days of Halloweenthemed entertainment and family-friendly fun. Put on your favorite costume and take a stroll down the trick-or-treat trail complete with candy, treats and toys! Jump around in bounce houses, get your face painted like your favorite animal and explore the zoo’s Ambassador Animal Headquarters. Each ticketed child will receive a festive bag for the trick-or-treat trail upon arrival. Boo at the Zoo takes place from 10 am to 5 pm on October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27. The Gulf Breeze Zoo is located at 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., in Gulf Breeze. For tickets and more information, visit gbzoo.com.

Annual Fenner McConnell/ Mark Wantz Blackwater

Heritage Trail Ride

Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and the West Florida Wheelmen for the 2024 ride. This cycling event is dedicated to the memory of Fenner McConnell and Matt Wantz. Both men were avid cyclists and former members of the West Florida Wheelmen. Starting at 7:30 am on October 26, cyclists will speed off and explore Northwest Florida’s beautiful nature and wildlife while cycling throughout Milton and the Blackwater Forest. The ride includes routes for all cycling levels with options for 18, 42, 62 or 100 miles. The race is hosted at the Clyde L. Gracey Community Center located at 5629 Byrom St. in downtown Milton. All proceeds from the ride will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. To register or learn more, visit bbbsnwfl.org/events/ fenner-ride.

ADVENTURES UNLIMITED FALL FOLIAGE ZIPLINE TOURS

Sept. – Nov. | Days & Times Vary 8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd., Milton adventuresunlimited.com

Fall is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy nature. Adventures Unlimited provides unique ways to experience the changing seasons, as guests can zipline past beautiful foliage all fall.

GULF COAST KILN WALK SOCIETY

Sept. – Nov. | Saturdays, 10 am – 4 pm 7507 Buckeye Dr., Navarre holleyhillpottery.com

The Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society has the largest historical 32-foot wood-fueled Anagama and the only reconstructed wood-fueled Southern Altered Groundhog kiln from the 1940s in the State of Florida. Both of these unique historical kilns are open for viewing.

HIGHWAY 87 OUTDOOR MARKET AT PIK-ITZ

Sept. – Nov. | First & Third Saturdays, 9 am – 1 pm 1922 Hwy. 87, Navarre pikitz.com

Stop by Pik-itz every first and third Saturday of each month to browse from a variety of local goods. This outdoor market features farm-to-table vendors, various arts and crafts vendors and more.

16TH

ANNUAL SWEET

SEASON

FARMS CORN MAZE AND U-PICK PUMPKINS AND SUNFLOWERS

Sept. 28 - Nov. 3 | Saturdays, 9 am – 5 pm, Sundays, 11 am – 5 pm 2260 Horn Rd., Milton sweetseasonfarms.com

At Sweet Season Farms, visitors can navigate through a corn maze and enjoy u-pick sunflowers, a pumpkin patch, and over 25 additional farm-themed activities. There will also be plenty of yummy treats like fresh lemonade, caramel apples, roasted corn, snow cones, kettle corn and more.

CHRIST METHODIST OF MILTON’S ANNUAL PUMPKIN PATCH AND HAYRIDES

Oct. | Daily, 11 am – 7 pm 5983 Dogwood Dr., Milton christmethodistmilton.org

Pick your perfect pumpkin, take some fall photos and enjoy a hayride at Christ Methodist of Milton. The pumpkin patch will be open every day throughout October, but hayrides will only operate on Saturdays.

DEPOT DAY AT THE WEST FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM

Oct. 5 | 10 am – 3 pm

5003 Henry St., Milton wfrm.org

Depot Day at the West Florida Railroad Museum offers guests tours of the museum, historic presentations, model train displays, and the kid’s train. Food vendors will be on-site offering a variety of delicious treats.

SEA TURTLE EXTRAVAGANZA

Oct. 5 | 10 am – 2 pm

8740 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach navarrebeachseaturtles.org

Shell-ebrate all things sea turtle through games, crafts, photo booths, music and more at the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center’s Sea Turtle Extravaganza! Admission to the conservation center will be free all day.

TAKE A KID FISHING

Oct. 5 | 8:30 am

Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, 8579 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach navarrechamberfoundation.org

Take a Kid Fishing is a kid’s fishing clinic hosted at the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. The first 200 children receive a fishing pole, goodie bag, free bait and fishing instruction. Registration is available now, with proceeds supporting the Navarre Chamber Foundation.

SPOOKY SHARK SCHOOL

Oct. 5, 12 & 19 | 9 – 10 am

8740 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach navarrebeachseaturtles.org/programs

Discover the sharks of the Gulf Coast at the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center's Shark School. Participants get an introduction to shark biology and conservation and participate in arts and crafts, a treasure hunt and more.

16TH ANNUAL RUN FOR THE REEF 10K/5K & KID’S ONE MILE FUN RUN

Oct. 12 | 6 am

8597 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach navarrebeachmarinesanctuary.org

The 16th Annual Run for the Reef features an out-and-back course along scenic Gulf Blvd. The event is a fundraiser to help “Make Navarre Snorkelicious,” a benefit for the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary and artificial reefs.

24TH ANNUAL NAVARRE BEACH AUTORAMA: CAR, TRUCK AND BIKE SHOW

Oct. 12 | 8 am – 4 pm

8600 High School Blvd., Navarre navarrebeachcarshow.com

The Navarre Beach Autorama showcases more than 150 historical cars from all decades, which will be on display during the event. Hosted at Navarre High School, the Autorama features tons of cars, music, food and more.

MUNSON HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Oct. 12 & 13 | 9 am to 5 pm

11011 Krul Lake Rd. Hwy 4, Munson, FL facebook.com/ munsoncommunityheritagefestival

Learn history through hands-on demonstrations at the Munson Heritage Festival. The festival features a Civil War reenactment camp, Native American displays, wood carving, basket weaving, shoe cobbling, sawmill operation, displays by local museums and more.

4TH

ANNUAL BATTY FANG-TASTIC HALLOWEEN

Oct. 19 | 3 – 7 pm

3051 Cloptons Circle, Navarre facebook.com/ emeraldcoastwildliferefuge

Don’t be afraid to come out to the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge’s annual Batty Fang-Tastic Halloween. Arrive in costume for an evening of trick or treating with our animal ambassadors, pumpkin painting, a cake walk, a kidfriendly haunted trail and more.

PINK PIRATE’S GET IT OFF YOUR CHEST ANNUAL 5K RUN

Oct. 19 | 8 am

8578 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach facebook.com/pinkpiratesnavarre

The annual Get It Off Your Chest 5K is a breast cancer awareness run supporting Pink Pirates, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the early detection of breast cancer.

MONARCH MADNESS

Oct. 26 | 9 am – 1 pm

4966 Henry St., Milton panhandlebutterflyhouse.org

Welcome Monarch travelers on their way to Mexico. Join the Panhandle Butterfly House and tour exhibits, play games, make crafts, watch butterfly releases and more. Venture into Dr. Lepidopterist’s Mad Lab and take the Monarch Madness Express for a butterfly adventure!

SCIENCE SPOOKTACULAR BY THE SEA

Oct. 26 | 5 – 9 pm

8638 Blue Heron Ct., Navarre Beach navarrebeachmarinesciencestation.com

From creeps of the deep to science that glows in the dark, amazing sea creatures await you. Presented by the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station, the Science Spooktacular features glowin-the-dark science demonstrations, spine-chilling dissections, a haunted beach walk and more hands-on activities for kids.

TRASH BASH WITH THE NAVARRE BEACH SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTER

Oct. 26 | 8 – 10 am

8649 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach navarrebeachseaturtles.org

Celebrate Halloween and support marine life with the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. Trash Bash provides an opportunity to protect sea turtles by collecting marine debris. To have some fall fun, volunteers are encouraged to wear costumes that are upcycled or marine-themed.

longleaf pine a southern revival

by kelly oden

Centuries ago, the majestic longleaf pine forest covered an estimated 92 million acres of the southeastern United States—running from Virginia to Florida and along the Gulf Coast as far west as Texas. With one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, the longleaf pine, with its long needles and tall, sturdy trunks, once dominated the southern landscape, but has since nearly disappeared. Fortunately, many public, private and nonprofit organizations are working together to restore this iconic species.

Vernon Compton is the Director of the Gulf Coastal Plain Ecosystem Partnership (GCPEP), a model of 16 public and private organizations working together to conserve and restore the longleaf pine ecosystem in Northwest Florida and southern Alabama.

“By 1995, less than three million of those original 92 million acres rangewide remained," Compton said. “And of that original inheritance, only 12,000 acres of old growth longleaf remain. We are fortunate because 72 percent of that old growth longleaf pine forest exists right here, primarily in and around Eglin Air Force Base. About half of that area was once the Choctawhatchee National Forest so it was never completely cut. You can walk the Florida National Scenic Trail and still see trees that may be 300 to 500 years old. The Florida National Scenic Trail starts on the east side of Eglin and wraps all the way around the base. It's about 72 miles long and it requires an outdoor recreation permit.”

A longleaf forest in Blackwater River State Forest, by Vernon Compton

The History

The longleaf pine has a deep history in the South. For indigenous peoples, the longleaf pine was an important part of life, providing materials for housing, medicine and tools. When Europeans began settling in the Southeast, they quickly saw that the trees' tall, straight trunks were ideal for ship masts, and their resin could produce tar, pitch and turpentine. These products were vital to the shipbuilding industry and helped to create the naval stores industry which consisted of pine-derived materials used to build and maintain ships. The strong wood of the longleaf also played a large role in building any of America’s towns and cities. In fact, those beautiful heart pine floors so beloved in old southern homes are crafted from the hard center wood of the longleaf pine.

While the early American naval stores and building industries did leave a mark on the longleaf populations, Compton says it was logging, agriculture and urban development in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries that saw the mass destruction of millions of acres of longleaf forest. “The forests were clear-cut and converted to other uses—to agricultural fields or development sites. If pine was replanted, it was usually planted with faster-growing and on some sites less ecologically beneficial species like loblolly and slash pine,” Compton said. By the mid-twentieth century, less than three percent of the original longleaf pine forest remained, and most of that in a degraded condition.

The Ecology

The longleaf pine is highly adaptable, making it an excellent tree for withstanding the varied soil, climate and weather conditions of the south. One of the most remarkable features of the longleaf pine is its resistance to fire. Longleaf pines rely on periodic fires to maintain their health. The thick bark of mature longleaf pines protects them from fire, while their seeds require the bare soil and nutrient-rich ash left by fires to germinate. Fires also help to clear out the underbrush, allowing the sunlight to reach the forest floor and sustain the diverse plant life that thrives in the understory. “It's very fire resistant,” Compton said. “Fire can kill it if the fire is hot enough. But all the plant species beneath the tree—the wiregrass and a lot of the ground cover are also fire loving. So, the more of that ground cover you have, the hotter the fire can be, and then the more of those species that you get. So, it's sort of circular. The ground cover and the trees depend upon fire, and then the wildlife all depend upon having healthy ground cover and more grasses.”

The longleaf understory is home to a rich variety of grasses, wildflowers and shrubs, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. “Much of the diversity of the system is found below your kneecap,” Compton explained. “It's the ground cover where there's

A healthy, ancient longleaf forest. Photo courtesy of The Longleaf Alliance.

White-topped pitcher plant. Photo by Vernon Compton, The Longleaf Alliance.

hundreds of different species of wildflowers, grasses and carnivorous plants. Some people have called this area the Serengeti of carnivorous plants because there are so many—pitcher plants, sundews and all these small carnivorous plants. So, it's a unique ground cover, and the animals that live in that habitat depend on it.”

These plants provide habitat and food for a wide range of animals, from the gopher tortoise, which digs burrows that provide shelter for other species, to the red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered bird that nests almost exclusively in mature longleaf pines. The longleaf pine ecosystem is one of the most biologically diverse in North America, rivaling even tropical rainforests in terms of species richness. In fact, the longleaf ecosystem supports an estimated 900 different plant species and provides habitat to approximately 100 bird species, 36 mammal species and 170 species of reptiles and amphibians.

The Revival

While the plight of the longleaf had been discussed for decades it was in the 1990s that conservation efforts began in earnest. “In the 90s, there was still a decline occurring, so more and more people were putting their heads together,” Compton said. “That's when two forestry professors from Auburn University, Rhett Johnson and Dean Gjerstad, started the Longleaf Alliance. The Longleaf Alliance is focused on all things longleaf, so we help private and public landowners learn and implement longleaf restoration and management. After that, America's Longleaf Restoration Initiative was born, and in 1995/1996 the GCPEP was formed. We are the oldest voluntary landowner partnership supporting longleaf ecosystem recovery, and we share a common vision of environmental stewardship.”

The GCPEP has been working for over two decades to restore longleaf pine forests on both public and private lands. Through a combination of prescribed burns, tree planting, and invasive species and habitat management, this partnership has helped to restore thousands of acres of longleaf pine forest providing critical habitat for endangered species and supporting sustainable forestry practices. In areas where longleaf pines and fire management have been successfully reintroduced, there has been a resurgence of the diverse plant and animal life that characterizes these ecosystems.

As for the long-term success of longleaf conservation efforts, Compton explained that America's Longleaf Restoration Initiative has identified significant geographic areas—areas that have the best chances of restoring and recovering longleaf. “One of those places is right here along the Gulf Coast,” Compton said. “We were the first partnership. Now there are partnerships like this scattered across the whole longleaf range. The shared goal is to restore 8 million acres of longleaf forest. Public and Private landowners working together have restored over 2.34 million acres to date, raising our current acreage total to some 5.2 million acres. The longleaf ecosystem recovery is headed in the right direction due to those collective landowner efforts.”

A red-cockaded woodpecker feeding on bugs. Photo Courtesy of USFWS.

Local implementation teams tour Wade Tract Preserve in Georgia. Photo by Randy Tate.

The Future

Compton believes that education and community involvement are important to the success of longleaf pine restoration efforts. Many of the remaining longleaf pine forests are located on private land, and engaging landowners in conservation efforts is essential. Programs that provide technical assistance and financial incentives to landowners have also been successful in encouraging the restoration and management of longleaf pine forests.

The Longleaf Alliance offers a variety of educational programming including learn and burns, field days and Longleaf Academies where private landowners can come spend a day or two learning everything about the longleaf ecosystem. “There are a lot of learning opportunities coming up,” Compton said. “We have our 15th Biennial Longleaf conference in Sandestin in October. That's going to be a week of learning opportunities. We will have a field day where people will get to see the only remaining coastal old growth longleaf forest that exists today on Eglin Air Force Base.” The conference is open to public and private landowners as well as anyone who has an interest in longleaf restoration and conservation.

A restored longleaf pine forest is not just about the trees themselves, but about the entire ecosystem that depends on them—the plants, the animals and the people who call this region home. We can all play a role in longleaf conservation by supporting

conservation initiatives with time or donations, by advocating for sustainable forestry practices or by simply appreciating the beauty and significance of these magnificent trees and forests.

For more information on the longleaf pine visit longleafalliance.org and americaslongleaf.org.

Local Longleaf

Compton recommends the following local spots to see some great examples of longleaf pines including some that more than 70 years old.

• GINS - Fort Pickens and Naval Live Oaks

• Big Lagoon State Park

• Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

• Bayview Park

• Blackwater River State Forest

• Blackwater River State Park

• Conecuh National Forest

• Eglin Air Force Base

• Garcon Point Water Management Area

• NAS Whiting Field Clear Creek Nature Trail

• Operto Park (East Hill at 16 Ave. and E. Moreno St.)

• Betty & Crawford Rainwater Perdido River Preserve

• Ruth McClellan Abronski Splinter Hill Bog Preserve

Prescribed burn on Eglin Air Force Base. Photo by Alexis Feysa. Courtesy of The Longleaf Alliance.

Pensacola Blue Wahoos Schedule

September home games at Blue Wahoos Stadium in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and information, visit milb.com/pensacola.

September 1 at 4:05 pm - Mississippi Braves vs Blue Wahoos

September 10 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos

September 11 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos

September 12 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos

September 13 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos

September 14 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos

September 15 at 4:05 pm - Montgomery Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos

Shrek the Musical

September 4 & 5

Your favorite ogre is back in the hilarious stage spectacle based on the successful DreamWorks animated film. Tony Awardwinning duo, composer Jeanine Tesori and playwright David Lindsay-Abaire, revisit their first collaboration to deliver a more intimate and engaging experience—a joyful, colorful Shrek that celebrates our differences. With new direction and choreography by Danny Mefford, this reimagined production brings the show back to its roots. This production is suitable for ages 6 and up. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with showtime at 7:30 pm. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox St. For showtimes, tickets and show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Emerald Coast Beer Festival

September 6

The annual Emerald Coast Beer Festival is back! Organized by the Escambia Bay Homebrewers, this event provides an excellent opportunity for beer lovers and novices alike to sample various styles of beer. Beers from microbreweries, specialty bottled beers and homebrewed beers will be available for tasting. The event will also include food vendors and free entertainment. The Emerald Coast Beer Festival will be hosted from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Seville Quarter, located at 130 E. Government St. in downtown Pensacola. To purchase tickets and learn more, visit emeraldcoastbeerfest.com.

Vegan BrewFest @ Perfect Plain

September 7

Get ready for a day of plant-powered perfection at the Vegan BrewFest! Join Perfect Plain Brewing Co. for a family-friendly celebration of all things vegan including an array of amazing vegan cuisine, great vibes and delicious brews. This family-friendly event is open to all ages. In addition to the food and drinks available, there will also be games and activities that everyone can enjoy. Vegan BrewFest runs from 12 to 6 pm. Perfect Plain Brewing Co. is located at 50 E. Garden St. in downtown Pensacola. For more information, visit perfectplain.com.

The Wingman Foundation Pensacola Memorial 5K

September 7

The Wingman Foundation will hold its annual Pensacola Memorial 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run on September 7. This annual memorial run/walk will be held in honor and remembrance of our brave fallen Naval and Marine Corps air warriors. The event will be held at Seville Quarter, located at 130 E. Government St. in downtown Pensacola. Runners and walkers also have a virtual registration option, so you can participate from anywhere. Runners will take off from Seville Quarter at 7:30 am. To register or learn more, visit wingmanfoundation.org.

A Man For All Seasons @ PLT

September 13-22

A Man For All Seasons is a historical drama originally set in 16th-century England during the reign of King Henry VIII. This production will transport the audience to the Cold War era, offering a unique perspective on the timeless themes of morality and political struggle. The play delves into the moral and political challenges faced by Sir Thomas More, a devout Catholic and loyal subject of the King. As Henry VIII, driven by his desire to divorce his wife, clashes with the Catholic Church, he demands unwavering loyalty from his subjects. Amidst the political turmoil of the mid-20th century, More refuses to endorse Henry's divorce and breaks with the Pope. Despite pressure from friends, family and the King, More remains steadfast in his beliefs, ultimately leading to his downfall. Performances will be held at Pensacola Little Theatre located at 400 S. Jefferson St. in downtown Pensacola. For showtimes and tickets, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

EVENT CALENDAR

Randy Travis: More Life Tour

September 14

The Randy Travis: More Life Tour features the legendary country singer and his co-star in The Price, James Dupré. The Country Music Hall of Famer’s long-time touring band have rejoined “Hoss,” as they affectionately call Travis, on the road after his life-changing stroke in 2013. The show will consist of Dupré and the band performing all 16 of his iconic hits, including On The Other Hand, Forever and Ever, Amen and Three Wooden Crosses Doors open at 6:30 pm and the show begins at 7:30 pm. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox St. For showtimes, tickets and complete show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Rock4Vets

September 14

The Rock4Vets 5K is an annual event that combines fitness, music and fun to raise funds and awareness for local homeless veterans. Participants can run or walk a 5K course, then enjoy live music, food, drinks and games in a vibrant festival atmosphere. The Rock4Vets 5K and post-race festivities will be held from 7 am to 12 pm at the Community Maritime Park, located at 301 W. Main St. in downtown Pensacola. To donate, register or learn more, visit choosepeoples.com/rock4vets.

WSRE PBS KIDS Day At Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

September 14

Join Daniel Tiger and Clifford the Big Red Dog for some PBS KIDS fun at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! We’re bringing two of the most beloved characters from the PBS KIDS lineup to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! Daniel Tiger and Clifford the Big Red Dog will greet young fans from 10 am to 2 pm. Along with character meet-and-greets, children can engage in hands-on activities, including arts and crafts and a scavenger hunt. Kiddos will also enjoy the park's dolphin and sea lion shows, animal exhibits and aquariums. Located at 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway in Fort Walton Beach, the park will be open during regular business hours, donating a portion of the day’s admission fees to the WSRE-TV Foundation. Visit wsre.org/ events/kids-day/ for more information.

EVENT CALENDAR

Cinemas in the Sand

September 20

The Santa Rosa Island Authority (SRIA) will be hosting “Cinemas in the Sand,” free family-friendly 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 September 20, the SRIA will be showing Inside Out. The movie will begin playing at sunset on a giant inflatable outdoor movie screen. For more information visit visitpensacolabeach.com.

Oddtoberfest @ Odd Colony Brewing Company

September 21

Join Odd Colony Brewing Company for its annual ode to the traditional German fall festival of lager slugging, pretzel eating and stein hoisting from 11 am to 8 pm. This year’s Oddtoberfest celebration will feature an oddly fun mix of festivities, including authentic German foods, a stein hoisting

competition, the finest lederhosen and dirndl apparel, the release of Odd Colony’s signature Oddtoberfest Marzen-style lager and more. Registration for the stein hoisting competition will kick off at 3 pm, and the competition will be held at 4 pm. Sport your finest lederhosen or dirndl apparel and head to Odd Colony for a fun-filled day of Oktoberfest fun. Odd Colony is located at 260 N. Palafox St. in downtown Pensacola. For event updates and details, visit facebook. com/oddcolony or oddcolony.com.

Oktoberfest @ Emerald Republic Brewing

September 21

Get ready to party for Oktoberfest at Emerald Republic Brewing. This annual Oktoberfest shindig is sure to put you in the fall spirit with an evening of specially-brewed German beers, competitive games, prizes and more. A series of games and contests will be held throughout the event, including men and women’s stein hoisting competitions, stein racing and pretzel-eating contests. Individuals must be 21 years of age or older to participate in the competitions.

The brewery will also be selling specialty beers, authentic German food and custom German-style glass mugs with Emerald Republic graphics. The purchase of a mug also scores you a discount when you fill it up with delicious German beer. ERBC is located at 1414 West Government St. in downtown Pensacola. For complete details, visit emeraldrepublicbrewing.com.

Warren Haynes Band

September 24

GRAMMY® Award-winning singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer and Gov’t Mule front man Warren Haynes is gearing up to release his new studio album, Million Voices Whisper, this fall. In its support, his Warren Haynes Band will be hitting the road on a 16-date fall headlining tour that stops at the Saenger Theatre in Pensacola on Tuesday, September 24 at the Saenger Theater. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the show begins at 7:30 pm. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox St. For showtimes, tickets and show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Pensacola Seafood Festival

September 27 to 29

Savor delicious seafood, enjoy live music by the bay and immerse yourself in historic downtown Pensacola during the Annual Pensacola Seafood Festival. Produced by Fiesta Pensacola, this festival is one of the largest festivals in northwest Florida with more than 150 vendors who travel from around the country to participate. This free event is hosted in Historic Seville Square, located at 311 E. Government St. The Pensacola Seafood Festival runs from 11 am to 11 pm on Friday, 10 am to 11 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 5 pm on Sunday. For more information, visit pensacolaseafoodfestival.com.

Perfect Oktoberfest @ Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

September 28

Join Perfect Plain Brewing Co. for their version of Oktoberfest. Celebrate all day with a special German menu, stein hoisting competition, Lederhosen and Dirndl fashion show and more. Events will be staggered

throughout the day, including the opening of Simply Brats German Food Truck at noon, followed by a stein hoisting competition at 6 pm and the lederhosen and dirndl contest at 8 pm. A live DJ will provide entertainment from 9 pm to midnight. Whether you’re participating or spectating, there’s something fun for everyone. Perfect Plain is located at 50 E. Garden St. in downtown Pensacola. For complete details, visit perfectplain.com.

White Tie Rock Ensemble

September 28

The White Tie Rock Ensemble is bringing their tribute to Arena Rock to the Pensacola Bay Center. The event will feature music from Arena Rock’s biggest artists including Journey, Aerosmith, Boston, Bon Jovi and Kansas. Doors open at 7 pm and the event begins at 8 pm. The Pensacola Bay Center is located at 201 E. Gregory St. in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and other information, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.

EVENT CALENDAR

Pensacola Opera’s Jukebox Gala

September 28

Join Pensacola Opera for an evening that truly sparkles at Jukebox Gala on September 29 at the Hilton on Pensacola Beach. Now in its 20th Anniversary, Jukebox Gala is Pensacola Opera’s signature fundraising event featuring an evening of fine dining, fine singing and fine giving. Over a gourmet four-course dinner, worldclass opera artists serenade you and your guests table side. A preview of the Opera’s upcoming season starts off the night – but the rest of the entertainment is up to you! The evening’s entertainment is determined by guests as they bid on popular selections from opera and musical theater to be performed for them course by course. Tickets are $175 and can be purchased online at pensacolaopera.com.

Business Climate

Special Section • September 2024

49 Igniting Innovation

The rise of Pensacola's startup ecosystem

51 Five Sisters Blues Café Receives $50,000 in National Grant Funding

Five Sisters was among 50 U.S. restaurants to receive $50,000 from the “Backing Historic Small Restaurants” grant program.

55 Around the Region

Find out what's happening in business, government and cultural news throughout Pensacola and Northwest Florida.

Igniting Innovation The Rise of Pensacola's Startup Ecosystem

The Greater Pensacola community is not only thriving but is rapidly becoming a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Known for its rich culture, vibrant tourism and strong educational institutions, Pensacola is now adding a new chapter to its legacy: the rise of a dynamic startup ecosystem. This evolution is being championed by the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with numerous entrepreneur support organizations, all working in concert to transform the area into a hub for business creation and growth.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. This fall, Pensacola will host its first official Pensacola Entrepreneur Week in celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week. This week-long event will feature a diverse array of activities showcasing the depth and breadth of the local startup ecosystem:

• November 6th at 9 AM: 1 Million Cups at Co:Lab

Pensacola’s ecosystem is bolstered by a plethora of resources designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage of development. From ideation and theory testing to scaling and employment, the community is rich with opportunities. However, the challenge has been driving awareness of these resources. Too often, aspiring entrepreneurs see their dreams fade away simply because they don’t know where to start or who to contact.

Recognizing this gap, the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce took a proactive step in May 2023 by forming a committee dedicated to Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The committee's goal is to foster collaboration among support organizations and raise awareness among entrepreneurs about the resources available to them. Out of this initiative, Startup Source Pensacola was born—a collaborative effort designed to attract, grow and support entrepreneurship throughout the Greater Pensacola area.

A startup ecosystem is, by nature, an interconnected web of communities, organizations, resources and service providers all working together to fuel the growth of startups. Pensacola’s emerging ecosystem is no different. It is deeply committed to empowering and developing entrepreneurs not just locally, but across the entire Gulf Coast region. Since its inception, Startup Source Pensacola has actively sought to build relationships across state and county lines, forging strong connections with entrepreneurial hubs in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Huntsville, Tampa, St. Petersburg and Atlanta. These efforts are all part of a broader mission to raise awareness about the Pensacola ecosystem and to ensure that entrepreneurs in the region have the support they need to succeed.

• November 7th at 6 PM: Startups on the Blocks at The Kukua Institute

• November 11th at 5:30 PM: Startup Source at Pensacola Social

• November 12th: Pensapreneur Kids Business Fair at Pensacola Little Theatre

• November 13th-14th: EntreCon at Pensacola Little Theatre

• November 15th-17th: TechStars Startup Weekend at PSC

Pensacola Entrepreneur Week promises to be a dynamic celebration of the city’s entrepreneurial spirit, offering something for everyone—from seasoned business owners to budding entrepreneurs. This series of events is a testament to the collaborative energy that is driving Pensacola’s rise as a startup hub.

We encourage everyone, whether local or visiting, to get involved in the Pensacola startup ecosystem. If you find yourself in the area, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Startup Source Pensacola. Whether you’re looking for information, connections or inspiration, we’re here to help you navigate your entrepreneurial journey. Pensacola is a community on the rise—join us as we continue to grow, innovate, and build a brighter future together. For more information or to get involved you can contact Quinn Breaux at qbreaux@pensacolachamber.com.

-Quinn Breaux

Quinn Breaux, II

Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce Leadership Pensacola

Five Sisters Blues Café Receives $50,000 in National Grant Funding

by Morgan Cole

Last month, Five Sisters Blues Café was among 50 restaurants in the country to receive $50,000 from the “Backing Historic Small Restaurants” grant program.

The program is a partnership between the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express to support historic and culturally significant small restaurants across the country.

The funding will go to support a number of renovations, such as a refurbished marquee sign, exterior lighting upgrades and relocating the front entry with ADA improvements that will allow customers to enter the restaurant from Belmont Street. A new mural will also be featured above the patio area that honors the neighborhood's cultural history. Five Sisters will have until the end of the year to complete the renovations.

Five Sisters is one of 50 historic small restaurants across the country to receive a grant, and the only one in the state of Florida. Now in its fourth year, the program has reached nearly 125 historic small restaurants in states across the U.S., including Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico.

“Receiving this grant is an incredible opportunity for Five Sisters as well as the historic Belmont DeVilliers neighborhood,” President of Great Southern Restaurants Collier Merrill said. “This funding will help to continue the revitalization of this neighborhood, all of which helps us to preserve our cultural heritage for generations to come.”

The “Backing Historic Small Restaurants” grant program significantly expanded its reach this year, doubling the number of grantees, including 13 new states, and has increased the total grant funding to $2.5 million, up from $1 million in prior years.

American Express partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to establish the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program in 2021 to support historic and culturally significant restaurants during the pandemic. The program has since expanded its scale and financial support to continue helping independently owned small restaurants serve their local communities for years to come.

“Small restaurants are vital to our communities, and their impact perseveres as they continue to innovate and make their neighborhoods more vibrant and connected,” Head of Corporate Sustainability for American Express Madge Thomas said. “This year’s grantees represent the rich traditions and iconic stories of communities across the U.S. I’m so proud that we’re able to help them grow and continue to build their legacy.”

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which administers the Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant program, selected this year’s grantees from a group of restaurants that operate in historic buildings or neighborhoods and provide cultural significance to their communities through their history, cuisine and locations.

“Over the course of four years, our partnership with American Express has supported more than one hundred small, independent restaurants across the country, each with a distinctive history, representing a wide array of cuisines,” National Trust CEO Carol Quillen said. “Equally important is what these restaurants share. They are beloved gathering places in their neighborhoods. In many cases, they have been run

for generations by the same family. Empowering small businesses that hold decades of stories is one powerful way that preservation strengthens local economies as it serves local communities.”

Many of the 2024 grant recipients include establishments that are family owned or have been operating for generations.

“We are so honored to have been selected! I was fortunate to have found out about the opportunity. Now that we have been through the process, I would encourage any restaurants within our community that may fit the criteria for the program to apply for the 2025 round. It is through opportunities like this that we all as a community win, helping to preserve and share our community’s rich history,” Great Southern Restaurants’ Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events Maria Goldberg said.

To view the full list and learn more about this year’s Backing Historic Small Restaurants grantees, visit savingplaces.org/historicrestaurants.

Five Sisters Blues Cafe is located at 421 W. Belmont St. in downtown Pensacola and is open Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm for brunch.

View the menu and learn more about Five Sisters Blues Cafe at fivesistersbluescafe.com.

Around the Region

UWF Center for Cybersecurity Earns Prestigious CompTIA Award

CompTIA, the nonprofit association for the information technology industry and workforce, honored the University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity with the Pathway Champions: Cybersecurity Award at the CompTIA Partner Summit. The summit was held in Atlanta on July 31.

“Employers value certification as a signal of someone's readiness for a job,” Associate Director of Technology and Training at UWF Center for Cybersecurity Guy Garrett said. “CompTIA Certification validates the work our students do in our courses and makes them more attractive to employers.”

Organizations and individuals were awarded for their work building a stronger technology workforce through training, education and certification programs designed to connect people with the technology skills they need to reach their full potential and attain career success. The Pathway Champions: Cybersecurity award recognizes CompTIA partners for their outstanding contributions to cybersecurity training and those that propel the next wave of cybersecurity talent. In the past two years, UWF students earned 427 CompTIA certifications.

The UWF Center for Cybersecurity is a national leader in cybersecurity workforce development and offers several programs and scholarships for cybersecurity training, upskilling and reskilling. UWF leads an 11-university coalition through the CyberSkills2Work program and serves state and local government partners through the Florida Cybersecurity Training Program.

For more information about the UWF Center for Cybersecurity, visit uwf.edu/cyber. For more information about the CyberSkills2Work program, visit cyberskills2work.org.

Public Invited to Give Input on Biking in Pensacola Input Needed on Bicycle Friendly Community Survey

The City of Pensacola invites the public to complete a survey about biking in Pensacola to help the city become a designated Bicycle Friendly Community through the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) Bicycle Friendly America program.

The survey, which is the next step after applying to the LAB's Bicycle Friendly America program, is part of the city's ongoing effort to implement strategies outlined in the 2023 Active Transportation Plan — which identifies actions to help improve mobility in the city.

The program is a way for states, communities, businesses and universities to make biking a true transportation and recreation option for all and recognize those who make great strides in doing so. Serving as a major economic development tool for the city, a Bicycle Friendly Community designation will provide an opportunity to make the Pensacola community a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike — a place where people not only live and work but also thrive.

There are three levels of recognition available: gold, silver and bronze. If awarded, the Bicycle Friendly Community designation will provide a roadmap to improve conditions for biking and aid in creating a distinct vision for a better, bikeable community.

As part of the application review process, the program requires local jurisdictions to disseminate a survey created by LAB to capture local community sentiments on biking.

Community members interested in providing their feedback are invited to take the online survey at surveymonkey.com/r/BFC_2024 until Tuesday, Oct. 15.

For more information on the LAB and the Bicycle Friendly Community designation, visit bikeleague.org/bfa/community.

For questions, please contact City of Pensacola Transportation Planner Caitlin Cerame at ccerame@cityofpensacola.com.

Gulf Winds Supports Big Brothers Big Sisters Across Field of Membership

The Gulf Winds Cares Foundation recently made donations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida in Pensacola, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend in Tallahassee and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Gulf Coast in lower Alabama. Gulf Winds Credit Union’s charitable arm collectively donated $9,000 to support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and potential of each child.

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) affiliates are cornerstones of their communities, empowering youth to overcome challenges and meet their full potential through transformational mentorships. BBBS provides children a safe place to build positive relationships that have long-lasting effects.

As the nation’s largest donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ impact would not be as substantial without donors like Gulf Winds.

“The investment we receive from Gulf Winds transforms the lives of children,” President and CEO of BBBS of Northwest Florida Paula Shell said. “Our partnership creates opportunities for a brighter future, breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering hope in young hearts. Every donation, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in nurturing the potential of each child and building a better community.”

Gulf Winds donations transform the lives of thousands of Littles across America, giving them confidence and support to unlock their potential.

To support the BBBS alongside the Gulf Winds Cares Foundation, visit BBBS.org.

LandrumHR 5K to Benefit Lakeview Center

Runners, walkers, and all those passionate about mental health are invited to join the Second Annual LandrumHR 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 12. The 5K starts at 8 a.m. from the LandrumHR office in downtown Pensacola, located at 219 E. Garden Street.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Lakeview Center, which last year served more than 27,000 adults and children with mental illnesses, drug and alcohol dependencies and intellectual disabilities.

The LandrumHR 5K strives to promote awareness of the link between physical and mental health. According to the National Institutes of Health, exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and negative mood while boosting self-esteem and cognitive function. These health benefits can be achieved with as little as 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise – like brisk walking – three times a week.

“Last year’s 5K raised $15,000 benefitting much-needed behavioral health services at Lakeview Center, and we are thrilled to work with Lakeview Center on this second annual event,” LandrumHR President and CEO Britt Landrum, III said. “This event was designed to highlight the important integration between physical and mental health to the community. We’re encouraging people to run or walk the event with the goal of simply getting people moving.”

From Escambia to Walton County, Lakeview Center offers more than 60 programs ranging from inpatient and residential treatments to outpatient counseling, psychiatry, trauma care, treatments for substance misuse and 24/7 support for those with serious mental illnesses.

“We are so grateful for our partnership with the LandrumHR team,” CEO of Lakeview Center’s parent company, LifeView Group Allison Hill said. “The need for mental health services in our community is tremendous. The generous support of LandrumHR and our sponsors will help the specialized caregivers at Lakeview Center provide comprehensive mental health care for children and adults across Northwest Florida.”

Around the Region

Early-bird registration for the LandrumHR 5K is $40 now through Aug. 31. Refreshments will be available. Prizes will be awarded for the top male and female racers, with additional prizes for specific age groups.

Sponsors include such generous supporters as Clark Partington Attorneys at Law; Jewelers Trade Shop; Shumaker; Woodlands Medical Specialists; Centennial Bank; Florida Blue; Navy Federal Credit Union; Starnes Davis Florie LLP; USI Insurance Services and Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund.

For more information or to pre-register for the race, visit eLakeviewCenter.org.

Digital Boardwalk Celebrates Third Consecutive Year in MSP 501 Top 100

Digital Boardwalk is thrilled to announce its prestigious ranking as #68 on the 2024 MSP 501 list by Channel Futures. This marks the third consecutive year that Digital Boardwalk has been recognized among the top 100 managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide, a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the IT services industry.

The MSP 501 list is the IT channel’s largest and most comprehensive annual survey and ranking, recognizing the top managed service providers around the world. Digital Boardwalk’s consistent presence in the top 100 highlights its dedication to delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions to its clients.

“Being ranked #68 on the MSP 501 list this year and being in the top 100 for the third year in a row is a tremendous honor. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our Digital Boardwalk family. We have always been committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in IT services and providing our clients with the best solutions,” Digital Boardwalk CEO Tim Shoop said.

Shoop continued, “Our journey has been one of resilience and innovation. We have faced challenges head-on and turned them into opportunities for growth. This recognition is not just a milestone for Digital Boardwalk, but a reflection of the trust and support of our clients and partners. We will continue to strive for excellence and set new standards in the industry.”

Digital Boardwalk’s success is built on a foundation of strong customer relationships, cutting-edge technology, and a team of dedicated professionals. The company’s focus on customer satisfaction, operational maturity and continuous improvement has been key to its sustained growth and success.

As Digital Boardwalk looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of empowering businesses through innovative IT solutions and exceptional service. The company is excited to continue its journey of growth and excellence, setting new benchmarks in the MSP industry.

For more information about Digital Boardwalk and its services, please visit digitalboardwalk.com.

New All-Way Stop at Tarragona and Romana Intersection

The City of Pensacola installed two new stop signs at the intersection of Tarragona Street and Romana Street, converting the intersection from a 2-way stop to an all-way stop.

The intent of the conversion is to enhance motorist and pedestrian safety at the intersection.

Drivers should use caution in the area and remember to approach the Tarragona and Romana intersection as an all-way stop.

For questions about this project, contact City of Pensacola Public Works at publicworks@cityofpensacola.com or (850) 435-1755.

Paradigm Parachute & Defense Receives Second UWF Grant

FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance announced that Paradigm Parachute & Defense, a disabled-veteran-owned small business, has received their second Industry Resilience and Diversification Fund (IRDF) grant. The grant, administered through the University of West Florida, will assist with the expansion of manufacturing operations in Pensacola.

This grant, made possible by a collaboration between FloridaWest and UWF, will allow Paradigm to continue to grow and create new jobs in Escambia County. The fund was established by the Florida Legislature, the Florida Department of Commerce and UWF to help Northwest Florida businesses grow, innovate and thrive.

Alexander Alvarado, co-owner and CEO of Paradigm, says the grant has allowed them to move into a larger building with an environment that is much more conducive to their manufacturing processes and more professional as well.

“With help from FloridaWest and the grant from UWF, we have created a place with room to grow that tells our customers we are here to stay,” Alvarado said. “Our dream is to build a company that can stand the test of time, a company where the team is proud to work and a company with strong relationships with its customers and suppliers.”

Co-founder and CEO Aaron Nazaruk said choosing Pensacola was strategic. “Choosing the Pensacola area was a strategic decision because of its rich aviation history, access to a skilled workforce and truly supportive business environment,” Nazaruk said. “Our new, larger facility signifies our commitment to growth and innovation, and allows us to expand our production capabilities and better serve our customers.”

FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance exists to grow the local economy by encouraging companies to relocate to the Pensacola area and by helping local companies grow. The FloridaWest team has been working with Paradigm to achieve its goals and dreams since 2020. Rick Byars, interim CEO for FloridaWest and past chair of the board of directors, said he is amazed by Paradigm’s commitment to growth.

“The speed with which Paradigm is growing its business is staggering,” said Byars. “In just a very short time, this company has grown from 15 employees to nearly 150, and now they’ve moved to a new site and increased their footprint, setting the stage for future growth. Right now, Paradigm Parachute is a leader in commercial, military, humanitarian, government and space operations and Pensacola is super proud of their accomplishments.”

Dr. Martha Saunders, President of the University of West Florida, said IRDF grants have had a significant impact as a catalyst for growth in the region.

“UWF is supporting the Northwest Florida economy through the Industry Resilience and Diversification Fund,” Dr. Saunders said. “We are pleased to continue collaborating with FloridaWest and our other regional partners, and are thrilled to witness the growth of Paradigm Parachute & Defense in our community.”

TASTE F

Indulge! Relax on the sugarwhite sands of Pensacola Beach while enjoying a variety of mouthwatering Chamber of Commerce

Jukebox Gala is Pensacola Opera’s signature fundraising event. Now in it’s 20th Anniversary, join us as we kick off our season with an evening of fine dining, fine singing, and fine giving. Over a gourmet four-course dinner, world-class opera Artists serenade you and your guests table side. A preview of our upcoming season starts off the night – but the rest of the entertainment is up to you! The evening’s entertainment is determined by guests as they bid on popular selections from opera and musical theater to be performed for them course by course. All proceeds directly support professional opera performancesthat provide over 200 artists with work and opportunity and touches over 5,000 patrons each season.

41st Season

ON THE MARKET

a Real Estate Section

In This Section

A look at July's real estate market highlights

60. By The Numbers

62. Moving Away From the All-White Kitchen

64. Five DIY Painter’s Tape Hacks to Elevate Backyard Spaces

BY THE NUMBERS

A Look at July's Market Highlights

Market Highlights

July sales improved slightly over June’s, and were 10% more than last July.

Average DOM for both property types remained unchanged from June at 60 days.

After several months of increases, singlefamily home inventory slipped slightly in July.

At 279, pending sales slipped 11% from June.

MOVING AWAY FROM THE ALL-WHITE KITCHEN

With the all-white kitchen design trend on the decline, you may be wondering how to make updates that appeal to today’s sensibilities. The key is infusing color and depth into your space. Here’s how:

CONSIDER EARTHY WOOD TONES

Earthy wood tones easily transform a predominantly white space and there are many ways to incorporate this look in your kitchen. Options can be as involved as refinishing your kitchen island with a wooden countertop or swapping in wood cabinet finishes, to as simple as introducing a rolling bar cart into the space. Displaying a few wooden kitchen elements, such as cooking utensils, cutting boards and a napkin holder, can round out the look.

EMBRACE MATTE BLACK

Matte black appliances are gaining in popularity for good reason – they can elevate your kitchen into a glamorous foodie oasis, and a place where cooking, eating, and gathering with loved ones brings you joy. It’s helpful if those appliances pair form with functionality. When it comes to cooking ranges, check out Verona, which offers professional-style Italianmade appliances that combine artistry with the latest cooking technology innovations. The brand’s Ultima Midnight 36-inch Range is fully matte black from cooktop to legs for a sleek look and is available in dual fuel or induction.

Alternatively, the Maestro collection from another Italian brand, Lofra, boasts strong versatile design and the highest technical performance. Both brands are exclusively imported by EuroChef USA. For more information, visit eurochefusa.com.

INCORPORATE BRASS ACCENTS

Brass accents can provide dynamism and depth. Consider adding brass hardware to your fridge and updating your faucet and sink basin in a gold or bronze tone. For your cooking range, get inspired by the models available in Lofra’s Dolcevita Collection, which can be customized with brass trim, and gold knobs, providing pops of color in unexpected places, and with 30-60-inch models available, can accommodate kitchens of all sizes.

Beyond the trim of your appliances, you can mix these metals into your space by swapping in new cabinetry hardware and by adding in an eye-catching brass pedant above your dining area or prep space. Displaying your brass cookware on hooks or a rack can offer a rustic and homey feel to an otherwise austere space.

If you spend a lot of time in your kitchen, as many individuals and families do, consider updates that add color, depth and comfort to the space.

Five DIY Painter’s Tape Hacks to Elevate Backyard Spaces

Looking to beautify your backyard? Read on for five fresh ways to update your outdoor space with just a roll of painter’s tape, a can of paint and a little creativity and uncover some innovative painter’s tape tricks to make these DIYs super simple.

Faux Throw - Take the patio to another level by adding a painted throw rug onto your decking. Use painter’s tape to outline the size of the rug onto the patio surface to ensure colors won’t bleed or drip outside the project area. Using normal scissors, trim a row of painter’s tape to form a zigzag or wave. Lay out the preferred pattern and paint one section at a time. Go with a simple design with a wash of overall color or let the creativity flow to form something completely unique.

Backyard Mural – Let the walls do the talking with a backyard mural. Choose a large space like the side of a garage, or even a portion of a wood fence, and let your imagination soar. Map out specific patterns with painter’s tape, or simply block off the section to be painted and be fluid and free. Tape out the design with an edge-treated product like FrogTape Multi-Surface painters tape with PaintBlock technology that ensures super sharp paint lines. Before you begin, get inspired by reviewing the 2024 FrogTape Design Trends created by celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak.

Bright Blooms – Plant beautifully bright blooms in pots and get the color-saturated garden of your dreams. Form a variety of patterns with different widths of painter’s tape and pick paint shades to complement existing patio furniture or throw pillows. Add texture with different brushes or stencils, choose pops of color to contrast with the petals or fresh green leaves, or use a variety of shades to create an ombre look.

Under the Umbrella – Let the entire family contribute to a one-of-a-kind patio umbrella. Using painter’s tape, outline the areas of the umbrella to paint and wash the design in color – use brushes, shapes and even hands to bring the look to life. Go wild with geometric patterns or a layered plaid, or assign each section of the umbrella to a different family member to complete. Color match with outdoor pillows or patio furniture to create a polished finish or bring everything into technicolor with a rainbow aesthetic.

Solids or Stripes – Get funky with shutters or awnings by adding some multi-color elements. Simply tape off the top with painter’s tape and apply paint. FrogTape Delicate Surface painter's tape is a smart choice for helping add details to freshly painted surfaces (dry for 24 hours) and with the product’s PaintBlock Technology, there’s no bleed, and no wait time to get to work!

Painter’s tape is the perfect tool to help with all your summer paint projects. These simple DIY tricks can get the job done and make you look like a pro!

If you have recently been married in or around the Pensacola area and have an interest in appearing on the cover of the annual Weddings issue of Pensacola Magazine , visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2025 and submit up to three high-resolution images of your wedding for a chance to be featured on the next cover!

Editorial-style shots by a professional photographer are preferred. Please include the full name(s) of the bride, groom and photographer. Visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2025 for submission guidelines and complete details.

Evening of Fashion

Presented by The Women’s Board of Baptist Health Care Foundation

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 sponsorship information, visit baptisthealthcarefoundation.org or call 448.227.8150.

Sponsorships Available

Enter for a chance to win a $2,000 gift certificate to Beré Jewelers.

One winner will be selected at random between 8 and 9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, at Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center. The winner will receive a $2,000 gift card to Beré Jewelers. Participants do not need to be present to win. Gift certificate is valid at Beré Jewelers until Oct. 24, 2025. No purchase necessary. Prizes are not transferable.

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. CH606