SHOUT OUT
A Heartfelt Thank You
Dr. Martha D. Saunders
We extend our deepest gratitude for your transformative leadership as the sixth president of the University of West Florida. Your vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence have elevated UWF to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the lives of countless individuals. As you step down from your presidency, we celebrate your extraordinary contributions and wish you all the best in your next chapter.
Transformative Achievements of Dr. Martha D. Saunders
ETHICAL LEADERSHIP
Recognized with the 2025 Ethics in Business Award alongside Kevin Green, reflecting integrity and commitment to principled leadership.
INNOVATIVE ACADEMIC
PROGRAMS
Spearheaded cutting-edge initiatives, including the Center for Cybersecurity, the intelligent systems and robotics Ph.D. program (Florida’s first), and the Sea3D additive manufacturing lab, addressing workforce needs in high-demand fields.
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN TRIUMPHS
Launched the “Here for Good” Capital Campaign to raise $90 million for UWF’s growth and closed the 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign with $64.7 million, bolstering scholarships and programs.
CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT
Oversaw transformative projects like the Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center, University Park Center, and plans for an on-campus athletic stadium and new residence halls, enhancing the student experience.
RECORD ENROLLMENT GROWTH
Led UWF to historic enrollment milestones, with over 14,700 students in Fall 2024, reflecting an 11% overall increase, including a 3% rise in undergraduate and 13% in graduate enrollment, welcoming the most academically talented students in UWF’s history.
NATIONAL RECOGNITION
Elevated UWF to a Top 10 public regional university in the South by U.S. News & World Report for multiple years and secured the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for seven years, fostering a culture of inclusion.
GREAT COLLEGE TO WORK FOR
Guided UWF to be named a “Great College to Work For” by ModernThink for 12 consecutive years, earning Honor Roll status for four years, reflecting dedication to a supportive workplace.
STUDENT SUCCESS AND RESILIENCE
Navigated UWF through challenges like Hurricane Sally, the COVID-19 pandemic, and budget cuts, ensuring record enrollment and student achievements, with 79% of bachelor’s graduates employed or continuing education within a year.
DOWNTOWN CROWD | JUNE 2025
Morgan Cole, Editor
For many, Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. School is out, the days are getting longer and outdoor temps are on the rise. Although the first day of summer officially kicks off on June 20, here in Pensacola, it’s already felt like summertime for months!
To help you conquer the dog days of summer, we’ve brought you the scoop on some of our favorite ways to beat the summertime heat in Pensacola. From frosty treats and exciting water activities to nostalgic arcade games and movies under the stars, there are plenty of fun ways to chill out and escape the sweltering heat.
Summertime also marks the start of sea turtle nesting season here along the Gulf Coast. Each year from May through October, Florida’s Beaches are home to hundreds of nesting sea turtles. Check out the story on page 18 to learn how you can do your part to help protect these vulnerable creatures as they migrateto our local beaches.
In this issue, you’ll also read about some of the Juneteenth events and festivities taking place across the city this month, the upcoming Fish House Craft Beer Festival benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and more.
As always, we hope you enjoy the read!
Until next time,
Cheers!
5 Questions with Creatives
Nicole Hemmerly, Owner of MossHound Designs By Nicole Willis
Nicole Hemmerly is a local fiber artist and the owner of MossHound Designs. Working out of Niceville, Hemmerly handcrafts nature-inspired textiles, rope art and macrame pieces.. From decorative wall hangings and panels to macrame chandeliers and more, each of Hemmerly’s designs is woven using organic, sustainably sourced materials. Her pieces have a cozy and natural feel, featuring primarily earthy tones and a bohemian aesthetic.
You can check out some of Hemmerly’s work and keep up with her on Instagram at @mosshound designs and Facebook at @MossHoundDesigns. She also has pieces available for purchase and takes commissions through her website, mosshounddesigns.com.
DTC: Tell me more about yourself and your professional background. How did you get interested in fiber art?
NH: I am originally from a small town in Northern Pennsylvania. I am here in Niceville because my husband is military. I have a bachelor’s degree in cardiac rehabilitation and a master’s degree in clinical athletic training. I was previously working as an athletic trainer for an ice hockey league in Philadelphia. After ten years of long hours and dealing with lots of injuries and stress on the job, I decided I needed a break. I moved down to North Carolina with my husband and decided it was time to rest for a bit. Being an avid reader, I ended up with my nose in a book on the history of fiber art and its modern application. I was quickly interested and ready to get my hands busy again, so I started creating. I bought some rope, yarn and a few more books— the rest is history. Creating came very naturally to me.
DTC: Tell me about the inspiration or influence behind your work.
NH: My work is inspired by landscapes, as well as tones and textures found in nature. Whether it’s a photo from a book or a place I have personally traveled to, I love taking nature’s color schemes and creating something beautiful with them.
DTC: What drew you to fiber art? Do you ever create with different mediums?
NH: I love the meditative process of weaving and macramé. It calms me and allows me to get lost in the process. I love adding different ropes, strings and recycled fibers into my pieces. I literally have no other talents in other artistic mediums; I tried knitting and crocheting, I can’t paint well and my handwriting is slightly prettier than chicken scratch!
mosshounddesigns.com
DTC: Can you take me through your creative process and describe what goes into creating one of your pieces?
NH: I try to keep my process fairly simple and straightforward. When working with a client, I will begin with a very rough sketch and a fiber layout of all the tones and textures that they would like to see in the piece. If working on a woven piece, I begin by warping the loom. Creatively, I try to picture the flow of the piece and let it naturally unfold. I love getting inspired by photos from a client—pictures of the room, other artworks in the space and furniture are all good inspirations.
DTC: Tell me more about the different types of pieces you create.
NH: The wall hangings are created using a floor loom. I have multiple looms, and I enjoy taking my time creating a few different pieces at a time. I move by how I am feeling that day and really try to let things come to me naturally. Panels and chandeliers are typically done for commission clients. They get pretty large and work well for dividing spaces or as a statement piece.
CRAFTS FOR A CAUSE
11th Annual Fish House Craft Beer Festival Benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of NWFL
By Morgan Cole
The Fish House Craft Beer Festival will return for its eleventh year. Held each year on the Saturday before Father’s Day, this annual event brings together dozens of breweries and beverage makers from across the region under one roof.
This year’s Craft Beer Festival will take place on June 14 from 3 to 6 pm on the Fish House Deck in downtown Pensacola.
The festival will showcase an impressive variety of local and regional breweries, offering beer enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike the opportunity to sample more than 50 different creations.
As in years past, a portion of the event proceeds will be donated to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, a local nonprofit dedicated to creating and supporting oneto-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
“We love putting on this event because it benefits an amazing cause. Being able to showcase and support not only local breweries, but the beverage community as a whole is so important to us,” Great Southern Beverage Manager Dean Clark said.
From established local favorites to some exciting new additions, this year’s beer fest features an amazing lineup of craft breweries, including Pensacola Bay Brewery (Pensacola, FL), Perfect Plain Brewing Co. (Pensacola, FL), Props Craft Brewery Company (Fort Walton Beach, FL), Ghost Train Brewery (Birmingham, AL), Ology Brewing Co. (Tallahassee, FL), Braided River Brewing Co. (Mobile, AL), Doc’s Hop Shop (Pensacola, FL), Urban South (New Orleans,
LA), Victory Brewing Company (Downingtown, PA), Grayton Beer Company (Grayton Beach, FL), Wicked Weed Brewing Pub (Ashville, NC), Swamp Head Brewery (Gainesville, FL), Founders Brewing Co. (Grand Rapids, MI), Fairhope Brewing Company (Fairhope, AL) and more.
“This event is designed to allow the public to taste a large variety of handcrafted beers with an opportunity to sample a number of styles to determine preferences,” Clark explained. “Beers from microbreweries, crafts and specialty bottled beers will be available for tasting.”
The event will also feature spirits tables showcasing a variety of smallproduction vodkas, rums and bourbons from regional and national beverage companies like Rollins Distillery, Asesinato Tequila, Bushwacker Spirits, Meili Vodka, St. Augustine Distillery, Bulleit Bourbon, XXI Martini, The Botanist Gin and more.
“At Great Southern, giving back to Pensacola is something that has always meant so much to us. We have been partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida for this event for the last decade. Our Craft Beer Festival is such a fun way to give back and reach so many people that might not know the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Being able to work alongside an organization that invests so much to empower the children in our community, while also being able to showcase the beverage community as a whole, is something we are so incredibly proud to support,” Great Southern Marketing, Public Relations and Event Coordinator Taylor Dawson said.
Tickets to the Fish House Craft Beer Festival are on sale now for $40 (plus tax) and can be purchased online at greatsouthernrestaurants.com/shop, or at the Tackle Shop located at the front of the Fish House.
Tickets include access to all of the beers and spirits, as well as a souvenir beer glass. Individuals must be ages 21 and older to attend and IDs will be checked at the door.
The 11th Annual Fish House Craft Beer Festival will take place on June 14 from 3 to 6 pm at the Fish House Deck Bar located at 600 S. Barracks St. in downtown Pensacola.
For tickets and complete event details, visit greatosuthernrestaurants.com/shop or call (850) 912-6622.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, visit bbbsnwfl.org.
By Chloe Cadenhead
Explore Local Juneteenth Celebrations
Juneteenth, an often overlooked event in our nation’s history, is celebrated every year on June 19 to commemorate the end of slavery in America. On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to inform enslaved African Americans that they were free. This was two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, but due to the slow spread of news and slaveowners’ reluctance to relinquish their property, many slaves across the South remained in captivity until Juneteenth.
In 1866, June 19 was celebrated in Texas as Jubilee Day. Over time, the celebration spread to other states, and was declared an official Texas state holiday in 1980, but wasn’t recognized as a federal holiday until 2021. While Juneteenth celebrations can come in many forms, traditional modern Juneteenth celebrations typically consist of barbecues, music and community. Pensacola is home to multiple annual events to celebrate the liberation and culture of African Americans. We have rounded up details on some events and celebrations taking place across the city in observance of the upcoming Juneteenth holiday.
The Living Lens: Documenting Black Burlesque History in the Making 309 Punk Project Artist in Residence, La Reina
Visiting from the heart of New Orleans, La Reina is the thrill of the hunt with a fever you just can’t shake. La Reina is joining 309 Punk Project artist in residency to share their work as a documentarian of living burlesque history for a photography gala and lecture titled The Living Lens. This one-of-a-kind event showcases the photography of Black burlesque performers, with a special section showcasing the intersection of the artists of the past with their counterparts in the present. The event will also include a live demo of a Burlesque performance. The event will be held from 6 to 8 pm on June 7 at the 309 House at 309 N. 6th Ave. in Pensacola. For complete event details and to learn about the 309 Punk Project, visit 309punkproject.org.
4th Annual Juneteenth Family Reunion for the Culture
Get ready for an action-packed day filled with thrilling performances, a live game show, delicious food trucks, exciting kids’ activities, spades and domino tables, raffle giveaways and much more. Since 2021, the Watson Family Foundation has hosted a special Juneteenth celebration for individuals of all ages to gather and honor their shared heritage. This year’s event will be held on June 14 from 12 to 6 pm at Museum Plaza located at 300 S. Tarragona St. in downtown Pensacola. Be sure to bring your own lawn chairs or picnic blankets for a full day of family, food and culture. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit watsonfamilyfoundation.com.
Juneteenth UnityFest 2025
Co-hosted by attorney Troy Rafferty and Adoration for a New Beginning Church, UnityFest 2025 is a free community event that’s all about bringing people from all backgrounds together in joy, reflection and solidarity. In honor of Juneteenth, this year’s event is set to be bigger and better than ever before. Individuals and families of all ages are invited to come and celebrate culture, music and unity from 12 to 4 pm on June 19. The event will feature a variety of family-friendly games, foods and tasty treats, live music, dancing and more. UnityFest 2025 will be held at A New Beginning Church located at 920 W. Government St. in Pensacola. For updates and event details, check out the Adoration for A New Beginning Church Facebook page.
Blue Wahoos’ Juneteenth Celebration
The Blue Wahoos baseball team and Escambia County have teamed up to host a special Juneteenth celebration. On June 19, during their game against the Montgomery Biscuits, the Blue Wahoos will once again pay tribute to the Negro Southern League’s Pensacola Seagulls, a prominent team in the city’s Black baseball history, with special throwback jerseys to honor baseball’s past. Individuals and families of all ages are invited to come out and enjoy an evening filled with Juneteenth celebration on June 19 at 6:05 pm at the Blues Wahoos Stadium located at 351 W. Cedar St. in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and information, visit mlb.com/pensacola.
Five Sisters’ Blues Cafe Juneteenth Celebration
The Five Sisters’ Blues Cafe, nestled in the epicenter of black history in Pensacola, is going back to its roots this Juneteenth. Inspired by the rich culinary history stemming from the African Diaspora, Chef Josh Rich has created an authentic Southern menu to honor the African American contributions to American cuisine. The three-course menu includes Southern catfish bites, barbeque fried ribs and Southern sweet red velvet cake, as well as the Uncle Nearest Passion Fruit Mule. This Juneteenth specialty menu will be available June 19 through June 22. Located at 421 W. Belmont St., on the corner of Belmont and DeVilliers, Five Sisters’ Blues Cafe is open Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm. Jazz Brunch is offered from 10 am to 4 pm on Sundays. For details on the special menu and more, visit fivesistersbluescafe.com.
36th Annual MLK Day Parade
The Pensacola Martin Luther King Jr. Parade has been a cherished community event since its humble beginnings in 1987. What started with just over a dozen dedicated individuals gathering to honor Dr. King’s legacy has grown into one of the largest parades in the city, attracting thousands of spectators
and participants each year. The 2025 MLK Day parade was originally scheduled for January 20, but due to monumental Florida snowfall, the city rescheduled the parade to coincide with Juneteenth. This Mardi Gras-style parade features a variety of participants from local businesses, churches, schools, civic groups and elected officials on floats of all shapes and sizes decorated for this year’s theme, “One Team - One Dream.” The annual Pensacola MLK Day Parade is a free and family-friendly event. The parade will kick off at 11 am at the intersection of Spring and Garden streets in downtown Pensacola. For more information on the 2025 MLD Day parade, visit mlkparadepensacola.com.
UWF Juneteenth Celebration Event
The University of West Florida (UWF) Black Employees Association (BEA) and Office of Campus Culture & Access (OCCA) will host a Juneteenth celebration on June 16 from 11 am to 1 pm at the UWF Commons Auditorium (Bldg. 22, Room 100) at 11000 University Parkway in Pensacola. This celebration is free and open to the public and will feature soulful food, live music, games, special performances and more. For more information, visit uwf.edu or contact Barbara Wells at bwells2@uwf.edu.
Keep it Cool!
Beat the Summer Heat with These Local Treats and Activities
By Nicole Willis
When the Florida summer sun starts to shine and the temperature starts to climb, finding ways to stay cool is essential. Luckily, Pensacola offers plenty of fun summertime activities and treats to help you beat the heat. From frozen bushwackers and indoor escapes to after-dark adventures and numerous water activities, there’s no shortage of fun ways to stay cool while still making the most of summer in the city. Whether you’re the type to chill in a lazy river, catch a concert after dark or sip a Bushwacker on the beach, here’s your go-to guide for keeping it cool all summer long.
Cool Treats
Enjoy a Scoop
Nothing hits the spot like a classic scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day! Luckily, Pensacola is home to a number of tasty spots dishing up this timeless treat. Nolita’s Parlor & Eatery, located on East Gregory Street in downtown Pensacola, serves up creamy soft-serve ice cream with a variety of unique and made-from-scratch toppings like pistachio ganache and strawberry hibiscus glaze. Also located in the heart of downtown Pensacola is AJ’s Market, which serves up delicious Hershey’s brand ice cream and nostalgic parlor vibes.Over in East Hill, Fannie Lou’s Ice Cream dishes up tasty homemade ice cream with classic and locallyinspired flavors. Also located in East Hill in the historic Sacred Heart Hospital, is Lamonte Gelato. This authentic Italian-style gelateria offers an impressive lineup of artisanal gelatos with tasty flavors options like creme brûlée, pistacchio and more. No matter where you get a scoop, you’re guaranteed a delicious sweet treat!
Keep It Healthy
We all know ice cream is one of the best treats to enjoy on a hot summer day, but if you’re looking for
a slightly healthier alternative to help you keep cool, the downtown area has plenty of great places to snag fresh-pressed juices, smoothies and açaí bowls. Good Day, Darling is a newer spot serving up freshly made smoothies and a slew of cold-pressed juices. Bear Fruit Bowls and Coffee is a cute outdoor spot serving up beautiful açaí bowls with loads of tasty toppings. If you’re going with a group and are looking for some variety, Cafe Single Fin and Vibes + Smoothies offer an assortment of bowls, fresh juices and frosty smoothies.
Get a Bushwacker Buzz
If you’re in the mood for a frozen treat that’s more adult-friendly, look no further than the Bushwacker! The Bushwacker is Pensacola’s official drink, and for good reason. This delicious frozen concoction typically contains rum, coffee liquor, creme de cacao, cream of coconut, milk and ice—basically an adult milkshake! Nearly every bar on Pensacola Beach offers its own take on this tasty local treat, but we recommend stopping by the Bushwacker’s official home—the Sandshaker Lounge. Both Flounder’s and Casino Beach Bar & Grill are also popular spots for enjoying this signature Pensacola treat. Since this cool treat tastes like a milkshake but contains quite a mix of liquor, remember to drink responsibly!
On The Water
Relax in the Lazy River
Beat the heat and take it easy with a float down a lazy river. Splash RV Resort in Milton offers a laid-back loop surrounded by palm trees and fun for the whole family. Closer to the city, Splash City Adventures features a classic 750-foot-long lazy river alongside water slides, pools and more. Whether you’re looking to unwind or cool off between thrills, a slow float is the perfect way to chill out this summer. For pricing and more information, visit splashrvresort.com and splashcityadventures.com.
Snorkel the Seas
For those looking to discover what lies beneath our beautiful emerald waters, consider booking a snorkel tour. Pensacola’s crystal-clear shoreline and artificial reef sites are perfect for spotting marine life, seashells and other hidden coastal gems. Jolly Sailing offers guided snorkeling excursions in Pensacola Bay and the Santa Rosa Sound. These tours include everything you’d need for a day of underwater exploration. Frisky Mermaid also offers snorkel tours on Pensacola Beach, with plenty of time to float and explore the clear coastal waters. Whether you’re searching for marine life or just looking to cool off, a snorkel tour is a refreshing way to experience and connect with the Gulf while exploring the beauty beneath the surface. For pricing and tour details, visit jollysailing.com and friskyboattours.com.
Ride the Waves
If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider renting a jet ski for the afternoon. Hopping on a jet ski is the perfect way to enjoy some fun in the sun without getting too hot. Whether you’re with a friend, or with a whole group, jet skiing provides a serious adrenaline rush that is sure to enhance your day out on the water. Radical Rides on Pensacola Beach offers jet ski rentals that’ll bring you stunning views of the Gulf. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, renting a jet ski is a great way to explore the coast while keeping cool. For rates and rental details, visit radicalrides.com.
After Dark
Light Up the Night
Explore the water like never before with a nighttime glow paddling tour! This isn’t your average kayaking or paddleboarding trip—Glow Paddle offers LED-lit clear kayaks and paddleboards that light up the water beneath you for a magical, one-of-a-kind experience. Launching from Pensacola Beach, Glow Paddle offers both sunset and nighttime tours for attendees to take in different types of views. For pricing details and to book your glow paddle experience, check out glowpaddle.com.
Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Chill out with friends and family while watching a free movie under the stars! Hosted by the City of Pensacola, the Movies in the Park series offers free movie showings at the Community Maritime Park every month. This month, you can catch a showing of Black Panther on the big screen on June 14 after the ballgame. Members of the community are invited to bring blankets and chairs to spread out on the lawn during the movie. Pre-show activities begin at 6 pm, and the movie begins at sunset. Concessions from local food trucks will be available for purchase, and all ages are welcome. Movies are shown at the Hunter Amphitheater behind the Blue Wahoos Stadium. For upcoming movies and complete event details, visit cityofpensacola.com.
Catch an Outdoor Concert
If you’re looking to kick back and relax with some good music, you’re in luck! During the summer months, Pensacola’s music scene comes alive with a variety of free outdoor concerts. You can catch some great local musicians as you take in the waterfront views at Bands on the Beach, Bands on the Bayou in East Hill or Bands on the Blackwater in Milton. These popular summer concerts feature local and regional artists performing a variety of music genres under the stars for individuals of all ages to enjoy. Bands on the Beach is held every Tuesday at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. Bands on the Bayou is another popular summer concert series that’s held at Bayview Park in East Hill during the summer months. This family-friendly concert series not only features amazing tunes by regional artists, it also gives back to nonprofit organizations in our community. Don’t forget to bring a blanket, your beach chair, a cooler of drinks and, most importantly, good company! You can check out the full lineup of upcoming concerts and performers online at visitpensacola.com or bandsonthebayou.com.
Explore the Great Indoors
Get Your Golf On
Perfect your swing or engage in some friendly competition at Bogeys Golf Suites. Located off of University Parkway in North Pensacola, this indoor golf and gaming facility allows guests to play virtual games in individual suites. Experienced golfers can practice and play at different types of golf simulators. Teams can enjoy multi-sport games like visual baseball and football, or compete with each other at classic games like skeeball and darts. With more than 30 indoor gaming experiences, Bogeys Golf Suites is a cool indoor activity for people of all ages. Pricing varies depending on your selected date and time. Visit bogeysgolfsuites.com for details on pricing and more.
Stroll Through a Museum
If you’re looking for an engaging, air-conditioned experience, consider checking out some local museums. Whether you’re interested in viewing art or exploring local history, Pensacola offers a variety of fun museum experiences for just about every interest. The National Naval Aviation Museum and Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum are great stops for those interested in the local history of the seas and skies. Housed in a former jail, the Pensacola Museum of Art showcases different
modern art exhibitions throughout the year. Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center tells the stories of the cultural groups that shaped Pensacola. Located in the historic former City Hall, the Pensacola Museum of History is a great visit for those looking to learn about all things Pensacola.
Hang with Some Cool Cats
If you are a cat lover, Pensacola’s Coastal Cat Cafe is the place for you! Coastal Cat Cafe is more than just a fun place to hang with some cool cats, the cafe partners with local rescue organizations, Panhandle Animal Welfare Society and Pensacola Foster Kittens, to host adoptable cats in the cafe. The cafe has more than 15 furry felines at any given time, which are all up for adoption. Located on Garden St. in downtown Pensacola, the cafe invites guests to play and snuggle with adorable cats, while enjoying cool beverages and treats in the indoor cafe. You may even meet your new furry friend—I did! Coastal Cat Cafe charges an entry fee of $15 plus taxes and fees to help cover the cost of housing and caring for the cats. For details on booking your visit, check out coastalcatpcola.com.
Unleash Your Inner Child at the Arcade
Light up your night and stay cool with the neon glow of a vintage Pac-Man or Pinball game and take a trip back in time with a visit to The Grid Arcade. This super-sized Tron-themed bar located at 2414 N. Pace Boulevard, boasts more than 40 retro arcade games, 11 full-size pinball machines and a bar with more than 100 drink options. The Grid also hosts a variety of fun bar games and trivia nights throughout the week. Grab some friends and enjoy an evening of friendly competition over your favorite nostalgic arcade games. The Grid is open from 4 pm to midnight Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 8 pm on Sunday. For details on upcoming trivia nights, drink specials and more, visit thegridarcadepensacola.com and check out @thegridarcadepensacola on Instagram.
By Jenny Diamond
Sea Turtle Nesting Season is Here
Summer is officially here! School is out, the days are hot, the Gulf water is warm and sea turtle nesting season is here! Sea turtle nesting season on the Gulf Coast occurs from May to October.
Female sea turtles come ashore at night, dragging themselves along the sand and digging deep nesting chambers with their back flippers, laying roughly 100 eggs before covering the nest and returning to the water. Our area sees four species of sea turtles: green, leatherback, Kemp’s Ridley and loggerhead, which is the most common species of sea turtle along the Florida Panhandle. In 2024, of the 30 turtle nests laid on county land,
during the day, with some species
almost exclusively nesting during species that nest along the Gulf do
volunteers with the Escambia County Natural Resources Management division, Perdido Key State Park and Gulf Islands National Seashore patrol the shoreline at sunrise each morning to spot tracks and identify and mark nests. After an
incubation period of roughly 60 days, hatchlings emerge from their eggs and make a daunting climb to the surface from the nest chamber and then ideally scramble toward the Gulf, where they will spend the first few years of their lives in offshore sargassum patches that provide food, warmth and protection from predators.
In addition to morning beach patrols, there are other volunteer-led initiatives to support public education about turtle safety. Volunteers walk the Pensacola Beach Pier daily, working with local anglers, pier staff and Pensacola Beach lifeguards to ensure proper protocols are followed if a turtle is hooked from the fishing pier.
Turtles come to the pier because they are attracted by the fisherman’s bait, but end up getting accidentally hooked in many cases. Additionally, when a turtle washes ashore in what is referred to as “stranding,” it is typically because the turtle has ingested plastic, hooks, filament or other types of hazardous material making it difficult for the turtle to eat and swim regularly.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) standards indicate that any turtle that is hooked or stranded should receive medical attention, even if it is not suffering from an obvious injury like a boat strike. The closest sea turtle hospital and rehabilitation facility is the Gulfarium’s C.A.R.E. Center located in Destin, and if the center is at capacity, then turtles must be transported to the Gulf World Marine Institute in Panama City Beach.
When turtles are hooked or stranded, pier staff reach out to the county or to Gulf Coast Turtle Watch (GCTW), a 501(c)(3) NFP that was established in early 2024. GCTW works with permitted volunteers to transport hooked or stranded turtles to the C.A.R.E. Center or Marine Institute.
Safely and comfortably transporting a turtle that might weigh several hundred pounds is no easy feat, and volunteers often have to utilize their personal vehicles. Thus, one of the GCTW’s first initiatives was to raise funds to purchase a transport van big enough to easily transport turtles. Thanks, in part, to a recently awarded $20,000 environmental grant from Florida Power and Light, the vehicle has been purchased and is currently being prepped for action for the busy summer season.
In addition to following safety protocols while fishing and boating, the public can do their part to help protect sea turtles by following the ‘Leave No Trace’ and ‘Clean, Dark, Flat’ initiatives. Turtles are cumbersome on land and can easily become stuck if they fall into a hole or encounter beach debris, so it is important that visitors knock down any sand structures, fill in any holes, and remove chairs, canopies, umbrellas, toys or trash at the end of each day.
Turtles can also be disoriented by artificial lighting, which can range from lights from homes, businesses and passing cars to flashlights or phone lights on the beach at night. Both nesting mothers and hatchlings instinctively follow moonlight to lead them to the water, but when disoriented, a nesting mother may crawl away from the ocean after laying her eggs and suffer from exposure. Hatchlings can additionally suffer from lighting disorientation and crawl away from the water, which puts them at greater risk of death from exposure, as well as predation from birds or ghost crabs.
As of 2018, a Barrier Island Lighting Ordinance requires all waterfacing residential and business structures to use turtle-friendly lighting practices: closing blinds and keeping outdoor lights shielded at night and using low-wavelength amber or ‘Wildlife Friendly’ bulbs available from local retailers for outside lighting.
Photo courtesy of MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife
Photo by Tim Donovan of FWC Florida Fish and Wildlife
Despite the ordinance, ambient lighting still adversely affects nesting turtles and hatchlings.In 2024, 100 percent of nests on Perdido Key and 46 percent of nests on Pensacola Beach were subject to hatchling disorientation from artificial lighting.
To support the ‘dark’ element in the ‘Clean, Dark, Flat’ initiative, those who visit the beaches at night should avoid using bright lights. Many local businesses sell turtle-safe red light flashlights or red film covers for cell phone lights. If you do see a turtle on the beach at night, turn off lights, avoid making noise and keep a safe distance to avoid disturbing the nesting process.
To learn more about sea turtles and volunteer initiatives in our area, there are several social media sites the public can follow: Escambia County Natural Resources Management and Gulf Coast Turtle Watch, Inc. on Facebook.
You can also visit myfwc.com/seaturtles for local programs and resources.
Photo courtesy of MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife
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JUNE COMMUNITY EVENTS
June Home Games at Blue Wahoos Stadium
For more information and tickets, visit milb.com/pensacola
June 3 at 6:05 pm - Columbus
Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos
June 4 at 6:05 pm - Columbus
Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos
June 5 at 6:05 pm - Columbus
Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos
June 6 at 6:05 pm - Columbus
Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos
June 7 at 6:05 pm - Columbus
Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos
June 8 at 4:05 pm - Columbus
Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos
June 17 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery
Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos
June 18 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery
Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos
June 19 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery
Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos
June 20 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery
Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos
June 21 at 6:05 pm - Montgomery
Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos
June 22 at 4:05 pm - Montgomery
Biscuits vs Blue Wahoos
Blue Angels Practice Dates
Every Tuesday and Wednesday in June
The world-famous Blue Angels can be seen practicing over the National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola on select days throughout the year. Watch them soar and visit the museum for free. The gates will open at 9:30 am. The practice flight demonstrations can also be viewed outside of NAS Pensacola including Fort Pickens, boat cruises, and various points throughout downtown. The Blue Angels will take off around 10:30 am and the practices last for about 55 minutes. The National Naval Aviation Museum is located at 1750 Radford Blvd. in Pensacola. Practice schedules are subject to change. For more information, visit navalaviationmuseum.org/blueangels.
Pensacola History & Haunting Tours
. . . .Dates Vary
Explore the magic of Pensacola and beyond!
Located in the heart of historic downtown Pensacola at 221 E. Government St., Pensacola History & Haunting Tours takes attendees through immersive and educational experiences. A wide range of tours are available, including Ghost Tours, History Tours, Walking Tours, Trolley Tours, Sightseeing Adventures, Water Tours, Amazing Races, and Scavenger Hunts across Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Mobile,
Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan Beach and all 50 states! Whether you want to explore haunted locations or learn about historic landmarks, there is a tour for everyone. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolaghostevents.com.
Flora-Bama’s 11th Annual Fishing Rodeo
June 6-8
The “Funnest” Fishing Tournament on the Gulf Coast—the Flora-Bama’s Annual Fishing Rodeo—is the “Every Man’s” fishing rodeo. Join the Flora-Bama team for a weekend of fishing, festivities and fun. The Fishing Rodeo is a 3-day Captain’s Choice tournament with anglers competing for first, second and third place in 30 categories. Accompanying the tournament will be a three-day beach party and awards ceremony that will include daily weigh-ins with a viewing area, live music, great food, vendor booths and hospitality done in true Flora-Bama fashion! Bring all the family and friends for a fun-packed weekend. The Flora-Bama is located at 17401 Perdido Key Dr. in Pensacola. To register, get tickets or learn more about the event, visit florabama. com/fishing-rodeo.
The Wildest Farmer’s Market
June 8
Enjoy a summer day out and support local wildlife at The Wildest Farmer’s Market! Join the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida (WSNF) for a fun-filled day full of good food, amazing animals and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to wander the sanctuary grounds, meet some amazing resident animals and support local artists and food vendors. All proceeds help care for WSNF’s 4,000 annual wild patients. The market runs from 9 am to 2 pm at 105 N. “S” St. in Pensacola. For more information, visit pensacolawildlife.com
Wonderful Wizard of Oz @ Saenger
June 9
LaBelle Performing Arts presents Wonderful Wizard of Oz at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre. Join Dorothy on a wonderful journey down the Yellow Brick Road as she meets new friends (and foes) on her way to meet the Wizard of the magical land of Oz. The LaBelle Performing Arts 2025 production features age 8 and older classes from the Pensacola Studio. The show begins at 6 pm. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox Place in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and complete show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.
Pensacola International Billfish Tournament
Tournament. For those who have not fished the Pensacola International Billfish tournament hosted by the PBGFC, you are in for a treat. The tournament is during the hottest billfish action of the season. The event kicks off on June 11 with a captain’s meeting and ends on June 15 with an awards banquet. Registration is open now. To register or for more information, visit pbgfc.com/pensacola-international-billfish.
Pepper at Vinyl Music Hall
Movies In the Park Series
June 12
For Pepper, two decades have gone by in a blur, filled with soundchecks, encores, album releases and sold-out shows stretching from the California coastline to the UK mainland. Along the way, Pepper has sharpened its own “Kona dub-rock” sound— a blend of reggae, alternative rock, island rhythms, and punky spirit— while also building a community of fans and like-minded bands. The group is now embarking on their “Small Kine Tour Too” tour, which features a stop in Pensacola. Joined by special guest Cydeways, Pepper will perform at Vinyl Music Hall on June 12. Doors open at 6 pm and the show begins at 7 pm. Tickets start at $25. For tickets and more information, visit vinylmusichall.com.
Summer Palafox Shop-A-Palooza
June 12
Celebrate the start of summer Palafox-style with the ultimate downtown block party! Shop, stroll and soak up the vibes with your favorite local shops. Hosted by The Shops of Palafox, the Summer Palafox Shop-A-Palooza is the perfect time to mingle, shop and enjoy a summer night out. Guests will have access to shopping specials, new summer product launches, live music, giveaways and more. There will also be plenty of festive refreshments, sweet treats and fun. The event runs from 5 to 8 pm on Palafox Street. For more information, visit facebook.com/theshopsofpalafox/events.
Camelot @ Pensacola Little Theatre
. June 13 to 29
June 11-15
The Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club will host its 54th annual Pensacola International Billfish
Camelot is a timeless musical that transports audiences to the legendary kingdom of King Arthur, his beloved Queen Guinevere and the valiant Knights of the Round Table. Filled with romance and chivalry the story explores themes of honor, betrayal, and the struggle to maintain peace in a world rife with conflict. This fresh, intimate take on the classic musical invites audiences to experience the heart of Camelot like never before—up close and emotionally resonant, with a renewed focus on the characters’ personal journeys and the ideals that both unite and divide them. Watch Camelot at Pensacola Little Theatre, located at 400 S Jefferson St. in downtown Pensacola. For showtimes, tickets and more, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/camelot.
June 14
The Movies in the Park Series returns to Community Maritime Park this summer with free movies every month. This month, Black Panther will be shown. Bring your blankets and chairs to spread out on the lawn and watch a family-friendly movie underneath the stars. Pre-show activities begin at 6 pm, and the movie begins at sunset. Free event parking is available at Community Maritime Park and City Hall. Concessions from local food trucks may be available for purchase, subject to availability. Picnic baskets are welcome too, but please no pets or glass containers. Movies are shown at the Hunter Amphitheater with grass seating only. For more information, visit cityofpensacola.com.
Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen
June 20
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to aweinspiring locations. At Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen, your favorite Queen songs will be brought to life. Hear hits like We Will Rock You and Somebody to Love like you’ve never heard them before. Get your tickets now to witness the music of Queen at First United Methodist Church under the gentle glow of candlelight. First United Methodist Church is located at 6 E. Wright St. in Pensacola. The show begins at 9 pm. For tickets and more information, visit feverup.com.
White Tie Rock Ensemble: Monsters Of Rock
June 28
Get ready to rock with the White Tie Rock Ensemble presenting Monsters of Rock! Get ready for a night of songs from KISS, AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, Van Halen, Motley Crue and more! Join the ensemble for this unforgettable show on June 28. The show takes place at the Pensacol Bay Center, located at 201 E. Gregory St. in downtown Pensacola. Doors open at 7 pm and the show starts at 8. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolabaycenter.com/events.
Green Flash at Sunset Book Release
June 29
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Celebrate the release of Nic Schuck’s newest novel, Green Flash at Sunset, a Key West Adventure. Starting at 2 pm, Schuck will be selling and signing books. Local singer-songwriter Pat Meusel will provide the soundtrack for the event, and artist Dan Dunn will have artwork for sale. Hosted at Pensacola Bay Brewery, the event will also feature $5 pints of Panhandle Lager. Pensacola Bay Brewery is located at 225 Zaragoza St. in downtown Pensacola. Books can be purchased beforehand and brought to the event for signing. To purchase the book and learn more about Schuck, visit bookshop.org/ shop/PanhandleBooks.
MILITARYMATTERS
AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION
RETIRED NAVAL AVIATOR CELEBRATES 101ST BIRTHDAY AT NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM
Retired U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Clyde “Cash” Barber celebrated his 101st birthday on May 6 at the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola.
“There’s no secret about it,” Retired U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Clyde “Cash” Barber said. “All you have to do is thank the dear Lord for another beautiful day, that’s what has worked for me, and that can work for anybody.”
Barber, a veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, has been a dedicated volunteer at the NNAM for over a decade. He said that he spends every Tuesday sharing his experiences with visitors in front of a PBY-5 Catalina aircraft—the same model he served on during World War II.
“There are very few of us left,” Barber said. “If we don’t tell our stories then there won’t be any stories to
tell. I’m blessed to be able to tell my stories, and I love telling them, so it’s my pleasure to be here once a week.”
Barber enlisted in the Navy in May 1941 at the age of 17. He served as a flight engineer on Catalina patrol bombers in the Pacific theater during World War II, participating in missions from Midway to the Philippines. After the war, he continued his service and retired in 1971 after he rose to the rank of lieutenant commander.
“It’s just a great day, and he is so representative of the men and women who serve this great country and have done so for 250 years,” NNAM Director Capt. (ret.) Sterling Gilliam said.
The birthday celebration took place on the Cabot Flight deck of the museum with family, friends and museum visitors and staff. NNAM Foundation President and
Chief Executive Officer Rear Adm. (ret.) Kyle Cozad praised Barber’s commitment to service and education at the museum.
“We have the opportunity to sit and listen to the stories that only Cash Barber can tell about his experiences,” Cozad said. “Cash is an example of the most important thing about this museum, and it’s not the more than 150 beautifully restored airplanes – it’s the people behind those airplanes and the stories they have to tell.”
NAS Pensacola, known as the Cradle of Naval Aviation, serves as a strategic asset in regional emergency readiness. Along with numerous aviation and cyber warfare training activities, NAS Pensacola maintains an operational airfield and deepwater port, preserving U.S. Armed Forces operational platforms.
STORY AND PHOTO BY GARRETT DIPUMA, NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA
SUNDAY SUNDAY BRUNCH BRUNCH
SUNDAY BRUNCH 11 AM - 2 PM SUNDAY BRUNCH 11 AM - 2 PM
JAZZ BRUNCH 10 AM - 4 PM
