Pensacola Magazine May 2022

LEND A HAND!

LOCAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES

SURF’S UP AT OWA’S NEW INDOOR WATER PARK ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

BUSINESS CLIMATE ON THE MARKET A REAL ESTATE SECTION

SUMMER COOKING FOR KIDS & TEENS

R E P SU R E M M STHE U A S R E F F O A E R A A L O C A PENS EST R E T IN Y R E V E R O F SUMMER CAMP

MAY 2022 • PENSACOLAMAGAZINE.COM

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CONTENTS FEATURES 15 SUMMER FAMILY FUN There are plenty of fun summer events for families to enjoy in and around Pensacola.

We’ve rounded up some upcoming events and activities to keep you and the kiddos entertained all summer long!

18 FOR THE LOVE OF LITERACY The Escambia County Retired Educators Association is dedicated to community service for the love of literacy and to promote lifelong learning

20 SAIL THE SEVEN SEAS ON AN OCEAN OF POSSIBILITIES West Florida Public Libraries’ Summer Reading Program is making a splash with this year’s Ocean theme. Check out their activity-based summer reading challenge.

23 SUMMER COOKING FOR KIDS AND TEENS Let your kids do the cooking for a change with these simple and delicious recipes from Pensacola Cooks.

27 LEND A HAND! There is no better time than now to instill a love of service in your children.

Volunteering offers an array of benefits for children and teens of all ages.

Challenge your child this summer by signing them up for a few local volunteer activities this summer.

29 SPLASH INTO SUMMER All the details on OWA’s soon-toopen Tropical Falls water park.

33 SUPER SUMMER Find a camp for every interest in our annual guide to local summer camps.

TOPICS 8 Editor’s Note 10 Page 10 with DeeDee Davis 12 Pensacola Scene 47 Event Calendar

6 | MAY 2022

EDITOR’S NOTE

PENSACOLA CULTURE + LIFESTYLE

MAY 2022 Owner Malcolm Ballinger

ditor’s Note The merry old month of May has arrived.

The poets wax on about the flowers, the sunshine, the rebirth and the (ahem) amorous feelings the spring season often inspires.

Kelly Oden Many onissue Executive Editor Congratulations. If you’re reading thisparents, first 2021 the other hand, of Pensacola Magazine, it means you have survived see May quite differently.

They see the 2020, which is no small feat considering the barrage light—at the end of the tunnel, that is. of pain, anxiety, divisiveness, uncertainty, loss and

different hats to see what actually sticks.

If they hate it, it’s only for a week and then they can move on to pursuing their next big dream or hobby on the list.

In solidarity with exhausted parents worldwide and in anticipation of the inevitable summer slogan of children everywhere (“I’m bored!”), we’ve compiled a hearty of disease all of the Obesity, diabetes andlist heart became death local summer camps we could find.Covid. While sentences for too many people battling Sign ‘empredispose up, ship some ‘em out and enjoy genetics to these illnesses, many can a stress-free (ish) summer season.changes. I’d be managed or eradicated by lifestyle

Editor’s Editor’s Note Note loneliness that 2020 brought to bear on the entire are lost thrilled be their nearly freed planet.Parents Many have their to lives, loved ones, from theafter seemingly their jobs—one another,endless the hitsrotation just keptof car Good morning, Pensacola!

What a strange lines coming.

Andand herehomework we are—onand the extracurricular other side, at least placeis weitfind ourselves already? in this spring.too, The novel How August activities.

Yes, children!—parents, in terms of thecoronavirus Gregorian calendar.

What willin change COVID-19 hasThese arrived our How is it still 2020? dream ofAendless summer days and fewer in 2021?

A lot? little? We multiple community and, have although we havevaccines so far been two questions may seem responsibilities.

One thing that stands that we hope will eventually in the coronavirus, luckier than many,reign the fight to keep it from contradictory, but I can assure you a parent, especially working spreading continues.

We allow wenta to print with put thebetween country back to work and for some I am feeling them both equally— this issue on March 30.

At that time, Escambia parent, and a less stressed summer semblance and of social normalcy. we can freely I don’t thinkWhen I amcases alone.

County had 42 confirmed Santa (parents are never stress-free, ofand course, visit again, how will our lives be different?

What has Rosa had 30. Those numbers rose quickly once This year is just too much.

All of it—the so we happily settle for less stress) is theit 2020 taught us?

How has it changed us?

I suspect testing was expanded. Too quickly. The fact is, politics, theof pandemic, the are pundits.

I’m over predicament what actually will take time to don’t unpack allwho of you the physical, we know might have the mental virus or be it.

So, thiswith monthyour we chose to focus on athese going to do children over carrying the virus without symptoms.

That is and emotional impacts of 2020, but I hope time much more relaxing that and playful “P” word: whythat it ismonths. essential we, asmean a community, glorious 2.5 I don’t what stay will heal usPets. and we are able to grow in positive Whoasdoesn’t go all gooey inside over home possible--leaving activities youmuch planastohumanly do with them, either. ways from ouradorable individual experiences. an kittenand oressentials. acollective playfulI pup?

Only only for absolute like the idea, too, I’m talking about where you are physically In 2021, I’m the traditional theforegoing most heartless among us, I resolutions suspect. of practicing physical distancing rather than going to putdistancing. themoutcomes. soWethey can besocial safe,via with specific, measurable Instead, social can remain Adoptions are on the rise during the while pandemic engaged and God happy, you many avenues inwilling, this modern world—phone I am hoping to turn my energy and focus and it’sto easy tovideo seethe why.

Pets alleviate the stress, head out make donuts every calls, texts, calls—and I encourage to a few of the themes that 2020 brought to day. boredom andtoloneliness of social distancing and stay connected forefront. No everyone expectations.

No stress.to their tribe. We uncertain futures. There may be many things

don’tgreatest know what tomorrow will and Enter the invention on bring earth—the out we of all ourneed control in connected 2020, buttowesomething can provide to feel summer camp.

Here, kids can explore Relationships or someone in order to pet get through a loving home to a sweet and get this. more the dreams, big and small, that live Losingall myof mom early in 2020 really brought home love than we could have imagined in return.

On the topic of physical distancing, in our within their sweet little hearts.

Want the idea that timetheis Pensacola a limitedHumane resource.Society We have While hastohad COVID-19 resource guide, you will see that learn to surf like There’s a camp great success withMoana? adoptions and fostering this moment and the future is always uncertain.

Pensacola neighborhoods and community groups this year, those who love animals thatways forI that.

Want shoot an arrow likesafe In 2021, hope tofound givetoseveral more attention toknow my have clever, unique and thewith shelters arelike never empty.

There is always a Katniss?

Skate Tony Hawk?

Learn to stay connected and toand make a difference relationships family, friends community. pet while inclimb? need, soPut if snuggling up toBuild a sweet practicing physical distancing.

I must to rock on a show? akitty or playing with a playful pup sounds say, I amfetch impressed withThere the outpouring robot?

Paint avery masterpiece? are Health likeofa good waysupport to passI some time, check my love and have seen amongst for all ofheard those, Summer While camps we have always thattoo. good health iscamps our Pensacolians—yeah, out fellow our adoptable pet profilesthe ontoilet pagepaper 34. serve as the perfect way for your child or most valuable asset, 2020 made sure we knew it.than hoarding was weird, but there are more We’ve got some feel-good pet stories for our children to have a chance to try on many enough people giving of themselves to make up

like to focus on making healthy choices while still Pro tip: the Take a vacationgood day stuff whileinyour enjoying bad-for-you moderation.

kid is at camp and enjoy an entire day of first responders hospital brunch, workers? Thank alone time, aand mimosa a spa day— Passion and Joy you for putting yourselves on the front lines incredible special-needs pets and their owners whatever floats your boat.

Genius, right?

I don’t know about you, but 2020 offered far too to keep us as safe asthat possible. big shout and she discovered whileAlso, thesea precious little of these to me.

I the waslove so toconsumed out toof alleither the teachers out there scrambling babies may take a little more care, For those of you with altruistic kiddos, with my mom’s illness and then with put together online lessons to keep our kids they give in return is worth every second. surviving

volunteering is another way to engaged learning instead worrying the grief and of her loss and theofgreat anxiety ofabout the

things cannot We create meaningful experiences asyou! anational family.

Ifpandemic exoticthey animals arecontrol. more your thing, head and the sorrow ofappreciate so many on overstories to theis brand spanking new andnonprofits, Pensacola home to so many news that I took little time for myself.

On that note, I encourage you to read our significantly enlarged Alabama Gulf Coastin Zoo. there’s sure to be organization COVID-19 Guide, which provides This year, I Resource hope to an explore creative and personal The newthat location features allcommunity the hands-on, up need matches your family’s unique resources for food, business, endeavors that as help me rediscover myself and close interaction the previous location plus and more. The ever-changing nature ofrounded interests andoutlets skill sets.

We’ve discover new for personal expression. added attractions, amenities and experiences thisacrisis I mention that up fewnecessitates tried andthat true organizations that willresources make for a wonderful day out. these may or may not family be available that are always open to a helping Procrastination to you by the time you read this issue. I IfWhile you’reitfrom interested ina conservation, check out hand apeople variety oftoage many made glorious headway on hope will provide place start,groups. some Dakota Parks on local Panhandle Rooftop ideas or somestory inspiration either way. projects home improvement and personal in 2020, Nesting Biologist, Rebekah Snyder.

Through special Parenting issue also features IThis didmay not.

I did notthat organize I did not You also notice we haveanything. some nonher work with Audubon Florida, Snyder helps our picks for family-friendly summer fix anything.

I did not learn a language pandemic related stories in this issue.

We made to ensure local shorebirds have safe nesting or a new events, fun recipes provided byI’m Pensacola the call already planned articles that skill.

Nothing.

But that’s ok, too. still here. spaces in to aninclude increasingly overpopulated region.

Cooks for and teensor to try their handI’d might an still bekids helpful, relevant enjoyable for2021, That’s accomplishment.

However, in

Art Director Guy Stevens guy@ballingerpublishing.com Graphic Designer/Ad Coordinator Garrett Hallbauer advertise@ballingerpublishing.com Editor Morgan Cole morgan@ballingerpublishing.com Editorial Interns Lisa Chacon Nicole Willis Contributing Writers DeeDee Davis • Holly Lovett • Kathleen Varner Stevie Thomas • Pensacola Cooks West Florida Public Libraries to Contributors Sales & Marketing Paula Rode, Account Executive ext. 28 paula@ballingerpublishing.com Becky Hildebrand, Account Executive ext. 31 becky@ballingerpublishing.com

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

changing that. We will continue to publish

Executive Editor

Subscription expiration date is printed on the address label. Renew your subscription today online at ballingerpublishing.com: One year $14.95 or two years $22.75. @pensacola_magazine

/pensacolamagazine @pensacola_magazine FOLLOW US! /pensacolamagazine @pensacola_magazine

Subscription Expiration Date is printed on the address label. Renew your subscription now online at www.ballingerpublishing.com: One year $14.95 and two years $22.75.

/pensacolamagazine

Executive Editor Kelly Oden kelly@ballingerpublishing.com

the details on OWA’s soon-to-open water

park 11covered slides, a your giant wave In this issue, of these topics So, turnfeaturing off thewe’ve news, put downall phone and to bring you all the information we can pool, a surf simulator and atheir lazy river. and enjoy these heartwarming tales and own and more to help readers shift for as long as we can. Please reach out to us focus in adorable of ideas, photos of local animals My and Ienjoy. can’t waitaand totodive 2021.

We hopeinspiration you yourin! health! withdaughter story orHere’s just quick the folksWe who for them.

When hello. are care all working from homeyou’re and we done, giveMay, your little catnip and in are missing our kitty wateracooler conversations.

Happy brave parents.

Hang throw your dog 31 a bone.

It’ssleeps these simple there.

Only more until June!

Stay safe,that staywill healthy strong, Pensacola! pleasures keepand us stay all sane.

Kelly Oden Kelly Oden Kelly Oden Executive Editor Executive Editor

86|Pensacola MAY 2022 Magazine

Publisher Malcolm Ballinger malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com

our readers.

Weahope you find them useful.

All of this, plus fewload DIY pet treat at into the kitchen this summer, info on West like lighten my and empty my house of recipes and some good news from the Florida Public Libraries’ Summer Reading much clutter and unnecessary junk that fills As for of us,the Pensacola Magazine has been Florida legislature regarding protection Program and my personal favorite—all published one title or another for it.

It’s timeunder to make room for something new.of formore petsthan in abusive situations.

40 years. We have no plans on

readers well.I get Gina Castro with some for it.asCan a big roundmet of applause for our

/pensacolamagazine

MAGAZINE

@pensacola_magazine

Subscription Expiration Date is printed on the address label. Renew your subscription now online at www.ballingerpublishing.com: One year $14.95 and two years $22.75.

a MagazineSubscription Expiration Date is printed on the address label. Renew your subscription now online at www.ballingerpublishing.com: One year $14.95 and two years $22.75.

Proud member of the

NW Florida’s Business Climate Magazine and Pensacola Magazine is locally-owned and operated. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing. © 2022

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Page 10 DeeDee Davis, Contributing Writer

fish find warmer waters and never return to the chill again.

There are actually fish from South Florida that would die in Northwest Florida. And trust me, if the water didn’t kill them, the politics would. But I digress.

Listen as I share the truth I have learned about fish tales.

With the arrival of Spring, bait shops become very busy places filled with anxious souls ready to get on the water. I have a lot of men in my family and I also work in an office that has plenty of manly kind of men. That being said, you can only imagine the hunting and fishing stories I have endured for most of my personal and professional life. I have, however, only recently come to understand how passionate fishermen can really be, not to mention the fact that a small fortune goes into the catch, certainly justifying the price of the grouper feature at our finest restaurants. Who knew? Simple me, who grew up watching Andy Griffith take little barefoot Opie down to the lake with a cane pole and a jar of worms, had no idea of the culture surrounding man and his quest for… fish.

And who hasn’t put up with stories among guys about the “big ones” and the “one that got away”? It never occurred to me that all that chatter about cold-blooded fish referred to more than invertebrates. Even fish need warmth. Often the

Before the adventure begins, it is critical to have the right equipment. Take one walk through Bass Pro Shop and pledge to never put up with one comment about the price of shoes again. Some fishermen throw copious amounts of money at this endeavor, buying all the newest and trendiest gear, trying to compensate for their lack of skill. On the other hand, some fishermen manage to catch more than their fair share. It is true, though, that all rods and reels were not created equally. The right catch requires that you use gear with just the right combination of strength and sensitivity.

Otherwise, you might bring in the catch too easily and what fun is that? Or, you might be using something too delicate and then, consequently, the good one gets away, laughing all the while at the feeble effort.

Size does indeed matter.

And then there is the bait.

You have got to know and understand the species you are seeking in order to adequately prepare. Throw the wrong bait out there, guys, and you may come home empty-handed or with something undesirable.

Some varieties will settle for the usual, time-honored lures.

Cast them out there and wait for the bite. On the other hand, some fish are more discriminating and require a more sophisticated approach.

These types require lots of bling before they bite. The lure has to have the right movement, action, and flash. Spawning creates a whole different set of issues. During this emotional time, many fish lose all sense of discrimination and may strike at anything dangled in front of them, as their appetite is the last thing on their fish brains.

Finally, consider what the great hunters do with the catch. Andy, Opie and Aunt Bee ate the catch of the day.

Today’s “sportsmen” (can’t help but giggle over that one) don’t always even keep the prize. Maybe she wasn’t good enough. Toss! Maybe she was too big. Gone! Maybe she just didn’t taste good. Maybe they caught her for her beauty, only to celebrate the catch, and then they didn’t really know what to do with her.

These special ones all too often end up lifeless on the wall, a symbol of what used to be.

after doing his dance As great as it is to hook a game fish, my first adventure with mahi mahi dampened my appetite for the fish and for fishing. They are so beautiful in the water with their vivid colors and the fact that they are usually in a large school. People love to catch (and eat) these fish but the boat looked like an NCIS crime scene. Who knew that all fish do not bleed the same. My fellow fishermen had no trouble with “the process” but I pretty much retired from the hunt.

Not only that, but advancing years and understanding what the sun is actually doing to me have required me to alter my exposure to the elements. I am in a very comfortable zone now and have found that my perfect fishing experience now involves ordering off a seafood menu or choosing from the Joe Patti’s counter. And I will never again complain about the price of a grouper entrée.

MAY BIRTHDAYS 10

Beau Noonan

17

Bradley Davis

I have made a few feeble efforts to join in fishing excursions in order to see firsthand what all of the fuss is about. I do understand the thrill of hooking a good fish, especially one that jumps like a tarpon. The beauty of a fish like that blows my mind and, even better, he gets set free

Opinion piece: the views expressed in this article are solely of the writer and not representative of Pensacola Magazine 10 | MAY 2022

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 11

PENSACOLA SCENE CICLOVIA 2022

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12 | MAY 2022

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by Kelly Oden

W

HILE PENSACOLIANS are fortunate to have an abundance of family-friendly outdoor opportunities to while away the summer days—think beaches, rivers parks and there are also a number of family-focused events happening throughout the summer.

From movies in the Community Maritime Park and outdoor music festivals to late night stargazing and the Blue Angels shows, there’s plenty of family fun to be had in and around Pensacola. We’ve rounded up a few fun family events to keep you and the kiddos entertained all summer long.

Hill-Kelly’s Movies in the Park Series Hunter Amphitheater at Community Maritime Park June 10, July 22 & August 5 cityofpensacola.com/1162/ Movies-In-the-Park-Series Bring some chairs or a picnic basket and blanket to Maritime Park and enjoy a free, family-friendly movie under the stars. Food trucks will also be available. Movies to be announced.

Bands on the Bayou July 30, at 6 pm bandsonthebayou.com The Bands on the Bayou Community Concert Series returns to the Bayview Park & Community Center this summer with the “Back to School Edition,” headlined by contemporary country singer-songwriter Abby Kasich and her band. Bring a chair or hop a boat to watch the concert while enjoying the delicious offerings of Stacked Racks BBQ Co. and Two Birds Street Food. While the event is free, donations are appreciated and will benefit children’s education.

7th Inning Stretch Ballpark Yoga Blue Wahoos Stadium May 1, 22; and June 12 & 26 at 9am milb.com/pensacola / diskolemonade.com Keep up with your 2022 fitness resolutions by trying a fun, low-impact and holistic yoga wellness regimen this summer. Grab a beach towel or yoga mat and drop by the ballpark for morning yoga sessions led by instructors from local studio, Disko Lemonade. Tickets are $12.

Blue Wahoos 2022 Season Games Blue Wahoos Stadium Multiple dates and times milb.com/pensacola Watching a baseball game with your friends and family while stuffing yourself with hot dogs is a summer classic. With the Blue Wahoos, Pensacola’s own Minor League Baseball team and Double-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins, having more than 60 home games in 2022, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a game (or a few) this summer.

Blue Wahoos Stadium Movie Night Blue Wahoos Stadium May 21 & June 11 at 7 pm milb.com/pensacola Stop by the Blue Wahoos Stadium and win easy money on a bet about how many people will stand up and sing Camilo Madrigal’s verse in “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” when Disney’s Encanto is shown on May 21. Illumination’s Sing 2, more family-friendly entertainment that begs for karaoke, will be shown on June 11. Tickets are $5.

Stargazing Nights at Pensacola Beach Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach Sundown on select Friday and Saturday evenings Eaaa.net If you are interested in amaetur astronomy, but cautious about the large initial investment of a telescope, the Escambia Amateur Astronomy (EAAA) has your back! Telescopes for public use will line the side of the Casino Beach parking lot facing the Gulf of Mexico on select Fridays and Saturdays. Pensacola Beach stargazing events are free, and you can trust that members will be happy to help fledgling astronomers identify planets, stars and galaxies. The EAA also hosts stargazing nights at Big Lagoon State Park, which charges a gate fee but is otherwise free.

Family Beach Fest Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach | Pensacola Beach May 28 at 2 pm Facebook @FamilyBeachFest Families looking for family-friendly concerts should look no further than Family Beach Fest. This year, it is headlined by gospel reggae group Christafari. Drop

by Pensacola Beach on the 28th for an inspiring night of food, music and worship.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 15

Summer Family Fun Fiesta Pensacola’s Children’s Treasure Hunt Museum Plaza in downtown Pensacola May 7, 11:30 am to 3 pm Children 10 and under and their families are invited to participate in a 100 percent free day of fun activities, carnival games, including arts and crafts, face painting, dance crew shows and fire fighter demonstrations. All children will be entered in age-appropriate grand prize drawings, which include bikes, art supplies and Sky Zone tickets. Free lunch by Zaxby’s will be provided to children and their families. Arrive early and get a prize bag!

Blue Angels Air Show July 6-9 at 2pm blueangels.navy.mil/show The Blue Angels prove that Independence Day celebrations don’t stop on the Fourth of July with the annual airshow on Pensacola Beach. Daily practice shows from the sixth to the eighth, which are impressive enough, culminate in one polished final show at 2 pm on the ninth.

Turtle Baby Shower Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach June 4, 9 am to 12 pm pbadvocates.org Have young children? Pensacola Beach Advocates’ Turtle Baby Shower is here for you with an afternoon of family-friendly entertainment, where you can learn about Pensacola’s sea turtles and ecological conservation, do turtle-related activities and crafts, and even meet a mermaid.

Admission is free, but for a $5 donation, absolutely anyone can participate in a raffle for the Sea Turtle Queen’s tiara and, if they win, will reign for a year and have the opportunity to participate in local events, such as Christmas parades.

Fireworks at the Beach July 4 at 8:30 pm Pensacola Beach Boardwalk & Santa Rosa Sound Exhaust yourself by celebrating Independence Day in the white sand or in the blue Gulf throughout the afternoon and then lie back and relax, watching the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce’s impressive firework display.

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day at Gulf Breeze Zoo May 8 & June 19 The Gulf Breeze zoo is offering a free mimosa to all mothers on Mother’s Day and a free beer to fathers on Father’s Day. Must be 21+. Savor your drink while touring the park, pointing out the animals, snapping photos and listening to live music, playing on both days from 11 am to 3 pm.

Pensacola MESS Hall’s Plant Power Curiosity Day 418 E Wright Street May 14, 1 to 4 pm If you want to keep your kids engaged and learning while school’s out, bring them to the MESS Hall, where speakers from the Native Plant Society will lead them through botany lessons and activities. Kids will have a blast getting their hands dirty by dissecting plants and even growing their own mushrooms. Special workshops will be held at 2 and 3 pm. Admission is $12 per person and covers all workshop materials.

SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 COMMUNITY MARITIME PARK

IT'S TIME TO GET OUT AND PLAY! The City of Pensacola has teamed up with the Florida Department of Health and the 5-2-1-0 Healthy Escambia program to bring another day of exciting festivities to help families learn about healthy lifestyles. Get moving and join us for a day of activities, games, sports, and contests! Admission is free! Sponsor and vendor opportunities available. For more information visit playpensacola.com or escambia.floridahealth.gov.

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For the Love of Literacy

Escambia Retired Educators Association Committed to Lifelong Learning

by Kathleen Varner, EREA Vice President and Escambia County School District Senior Volunteer of the Year

A small band of retired educators quietly works to promote their career long belief that education is empowerment regardless of your age.

EREA motto: Committed to serving the community The Escambia Retired Educators Association (EREA), established in 1953, is a vibrant and active force in the county.

Nearly 200 members strong, their professional public service continues into their retirement years through EREA, which is affiliated with state organizations FREA and NRTAAARP. The community benefits from their volunteerism – in the years before the pandemic, the unit, the largest of the 4 units in District 1, posted over 11,000 volunteer hours, 2000+ working with youth and about 1/3 of it focused on literacy. Even during the pandemic, retired educators found safe ways to serve our community, including forming a phone tree to check up on their isolated elder members, delivering groceries, taking meals, shopping and notifying friends about vaccine availability and sites. These retired educators have now returned to their work in schools,

18 | MAY 2022

churches, civic and fraternal organizations, community non-profits, hospitals and many more locations. They host a non-partisan candidate forum in election years, helping the community to better understand the issues and the election process. They support school district and education union functions and are actively involved in education issues locally and at the Capitol in Tallahassee.

Once a teacher; always a teacher!

While EREA members work in many facets of education, their greatest love continues to be literacy for all – a continuum from “cradle to grave” as they refer to it. They have connections and partnerships with public education in the Escambia County School District, Pensacola State College and the

University of West Florida, in addition to Gulf Coast Kid’s House, and The Children’s Trust, Ready Kids (formerly ECare-Every Child a Reader in Escambia) for preschoolers, Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) and the FREA fifth grade Essay Contest – all for elementary students. They are also involved in the Escambia/Santa Rosa Spelling Bee and History Fair for elementary through high school-aged students.

Along with EEA, they support two Little Free Libraries for children and adults. Through a partnership with UWF, the EREA has plans to develop opportunities for middle and high school students as well as a festival project called Storyfest that they hope to launch in 2023. Retired educators serve on the board and tutor adults at Learn To Read Of Northwest Florida, which has educated thousands of adults over the years. One of Learn to Read’s founders and most ardent supporters, Margaret Poppell, was an active member in EREA. To promote her legacy, EREA collects children’s books to disseminate to organizations that cater to children and families.

Because of their dedication and tireless work, FREA units across Florida now have similar projects in Margaret’s memory. Their efforts in all these areas span the generations — bringing full circle to EREA’s ‘cradle to grave’ mission.

Teachers become students when they support lifelong learning themselves These active seniors believe in their own continued education; like many others, this overhead and filmstrip projector brigade learned how to use Zoom during the pandemic, missing only two scheduled meetings. They’ve also used their smartphones and email to share their comments on education-related issues with legislators. They fill their time with travel and exploration in their backyard and beyond with planned excursions to local sites such as Weeks Bay Estuary, Baker Block Museum, historic Pensacola sites (some on Segways), WSRE tours, Leisure Learning classes through UWF, a trip to Biltmore Estate, trips to Ireland, Spain and Portugal, China, Japan, Iceland, Venice and cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska.

Most recently a group enjoyed the Lewis and Clark Snake and Columbia Rivers cruise. Most activities are open to friends in the community who share the same love for learning.

Passionate people get involved for the good of education Education has always been a community effort, but never did we see the impact of educators more than during the pandemic. They were lauded for the tremendous work they accomplished, in only days, to adapt instruction for a virtual classroom first, then hybrid classrooms and finally in-person instruction again for children who had missed months of focused learning. Teachers, active and retired, rose to the challenge – to fulfill the charge that is public education, which is to use taxpayer funds to educate all levels of children in the skills that society deems necessary to prepare them for participation in the world as it is now, not a world that once was or one that may be created. And this task takes a community working together— educators, families, businesses, nonprofits—with one goal.

So educators hope you’ll understand that while some are in the classrooms, others, now retired, defend their younger colleagues, speak out for the children they teach and mentor and grandparent, by flooding the legislature, by marching on the Capitol, by trying to protect the pensions that 85 percent of Floridians believe teachers deserve, by advocating against the use

of public funds for parochial and for-profit charter and voucher schools that are not held accountable, as public schools are, for their curriculum or the use of those funds. This quiet little band of active volunteers has learned to raise their hands, to use their words, to stand up for what our democracy has deemed to be right for the education of its citizenry.

As any teacher can attest, growth occurs in a classroom when everyone does his/ her part. Likewise, everyone benefits when a community comes together to help each other. These educators give because giving is in their nature and because they love being a part of the big picture. But they also receive blessings from the gifts they give in the assurance that remaining active and challenging their minds is healthy, in the feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment and in the knowledge that they are helping the community in which they live, even if it’s in a small way. These seniors believe they still have much to give.

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To learn more about the Escambia Retired Educators Association, visit them on facebook @EREAGO.

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Sail the Seven Seas on an Ocean of Possibilities

with West Florida Public Libraries ’ summer reading challenge

by Stevie Thomas, Senior Librarian, Youth Services Coordinator, West Florida Public Libraries

Every year, West Florida Public Libraries (WFPL) hosts a Summer Reading program. The program’s goal is to inspire a love of reading and develop a sense of community for residents of all ages in Escambia County. As a member of the national Collaborative Summer Learning Program (CSLP), this year’s theme is oceanography and the slogan is “Ocean of Possibilities.”

The Summer Reading program, which kicks off on May 31 and ends July 31, is open to both youth and adults. The program is made up of several components which include a reading activity challenge, themed STEAM events, themed library programs, and special programs with outside agencies and community groups.

WFPL will host agencies such as the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), MESS Hall, the Pensacola and Perdido Bay Estuary Program, the National Naval Aviation Museum and many others. The library’s STEAM department will host monthly ocean-themed programs at each of their library locations.

Various other programs at library locations will include, but are not limited to, family story time, craft programs, movie showings, book clubs and technology programs. Many of these programs will also embrace the oceanography theme.

This year’s Summer Reading challenge will be activity-based. In recent years, the challenge was based on the number of minutes each reader completed. Many years ago, the reading challenge was formatted like a board game and many of our long-time patrons remember the game fondly. Lately, so much emphasis has been placed on reading a certain number of books or books at a certain reading level, especially while kids are in school.

WFPL decided to return to the fun of the game by encouraging readers of all ages to select titles of their choice that fit within a list of specified guidelines or activities. Completing the different groups of activities will allow readers to qualify for tickets that can be applied for a chance to win certain grand prizes in their specified age group. Youth readers who complete the groups of activities will qualify for small milestone prizes throughout the challenge. Youth participants who complete the reading challenge will be able to select a book of their choice to keep.

To give local youth (and their parents) a little bit of a head start, we have compiled a list of suggested reads based on a few of the activities in our reading challenge. See you at the Library this summer!

Visit mywfpl.com for more information and to check out the full calendar of events by library location.

20 | MAY 2022

Read a Book Published in 2022 Picture Book: Brave Enough

by Rob Justus, 9781645673491 Middle Grades Read: Life in the Doghouse: Elmer and the Talent Show by Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta, 9781534482609 Teen Read: Sunny G’s Series of Rash Decisions by Navdeep Singh Dhillon, 9780593109977

Read a Book with a Blue Cover Picture Book: Franz-Ferdinand the Dancing Walrus by Marcus Pfister, 9780735844698 Middle Grades Read: The Storm Keeper’s Island by Catherine Doyle, 9781681199597 Teen Read: Dark Shores by Danielle L. Jensen, 9781250317728

Read a Book on a Subject You Know Nothing About Nonfiction Picture Book: Solitary Animals: Introverts in the Wild by Joshua David Stein, 9780593384435 Nonfiction Middle Grades Read: Water Cycles: The Source of Life from Start to Finish by DK Publishing, 9780744033342 Nonfiction Teen Read: The Woman All Spies Fear: Code Breaker Elizabeth Smith Friedman and Her Hidden Life by Amy Butler Greenfield, 9780593127193

Read a Book with a Historical Figure or Event Nonfiction Picture Book: Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpre by Anika Aldamuy Denise, 9780062748683 Nonfiction Middle Grades Read: A Girl from Yamhill: A Memoir by Beverly Cleary, 9780062453310 Nonfiction Teen Read: Dissenter on the Bench: Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Life and Work by Victoria Ortiz, 9780544973640

Read a Book Featuring an Extinct, Imaginary, or Mythical Creature Picture Book: Julia’s House Goes Home by Ben Hatke, 9781250769329 Middle Grades Read: A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting by Joe Ballarini, 9780062437839 Teen Read: The Immortals: Wild Magic by Tamora Pierce, 9781481440233

West Florida Public Library Locations PENSACOLA LIBRARY 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL 32502 850-436-5060 TRYON LIBRARY 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL 32504 850-471-6980 CENTURY LIBRARY 7991 N. Century Blvd.

Century, FL 32535 850-256-6217 GENEALOGY LIBRARY 5740 N. Ninth Ave. Pensacola, FL 32504 850-494-7373 MOLINO LIBRARY 6450-A Highway 95A Molino, FL 32577 850-435-1760 SOUTHWEST LIBRARY 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL 32507 850-453-7780 WESTSIDE LIBRARY 1301 W. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL 32502 850-595-1047 For hours and additional information, visit mywfpl.com/visit/locations.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 21

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Summer isng Cofoork Kid and Teens

Does your kid or teen love spending time in the kitchen?

Get them cooking with these delicious and simple recipes from Pensacola Cooks!

Cooks Recipes Courtesy of Pensacola s ven Ste Guy by hy rap tog Pho

Frozen Yogurt Fresh Fruit Bark Serves 3-4

Ingredients 2 containers of plain or vanilla yogurt (32-ounce) 2 cups chopped fresh fruit, your choice

Preparation Line a 18’ x 13” baking sheet with parchment paper.

Pour the yogurt onto the baking sheet and spread with spatula or spoon.

Sprinkle on the chopped fruit and freeze for 3-4 hours, or until frozen solid.

Break into pieces and serve.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 23

California Roll Sushi Bowl Serves 4 Ingredients 2 cups dry Japanese shortgrain rice 5 tablespoons rice vinegar, divided 2 tablespoons granulated sugar ½ teaspoon salt ¼ cup light mayonnaise 1 ½ tablespoons Sriracha sauce ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce 1 ½ cups diced English cucumber ¾ cup roughly-chopped matchstick carrots 1 nori sheet, chopped or crumbled into small pieces (add more if you’d like) 1 ½ tablespoons chopped pickled sushi ginger 1 large avocado, peeled and diced Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Preparation Place rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until water runs clear (it will take about 2 minutes of rinsing).

In a small mixing bowl whisk together mayonnaise with Sriracha.

Tap bottom of strainer with palm of your hand until water no longer falls from strainer (it should be well drained).

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce and the remaining 1-tablespoon of vinegar, set aside.

Transfer rice to a medium saucepan along with 2¼ cups water.

Bring mixture to a full boil then reduce heat to low, cover with lid and simmer 15 minutes.

Remove from heat, keep covered and let rest 15 minutes.

In a small saucepan, combine 4 tablespoons of the vinegar with sugar and salt.

Cook over medium heat and whisk until sugar has dissolved.

Remove from heat, let cool.

While rice is resting, pour vinegar mixture over rice and toss to evenly coat.

24 | MAY 2022

Transfer to a sandwich-sized resealable bag. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl gently toss together cucumber, carrots, nori, ginger, and avocado.

Divide prepared rice into 4 or 5 bowls.

Top with vegetable mixture, then spoon soy sauce mixture over top of each serving.

Cut a small tip from one corner of the resealable bag holding the Sriracha mixture, drizzle over each serving.

Serve immediately.

Bagel Egg Boats Serves 1 Ingredients 1 whole bagel, sliced in half 2-3 large eggs 1-2 tablespoons each of cheese and/or diced vegetables (optional)

Preparation Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a piece of foil with nonstick cooking spray.

Evenly slice off the very bottom portion of the bagel. Set aside to eat or turn into breadcrumbs.

Hollow out the bread inside of the cut bagel using your fingers to pull the bread away from the crust of the bagel (discard or turn into breadcrumbs).

Set the bagel, cut-sideup on the foil.

Whisk 2 eggs and pour them into the hollowed-out bagel.

Place desired filling choices into the egg. If the egg and filling do not fill the bagel completely, you can add another whisked egg on top.

Wrap the bagel up the sides with the foil but keep the top open to the heat of the oven.

Bake 20 to 30 minutes, or until the egg is completely set. Timing will depend on how many eggs used and how large the bagel is.

Serve immediately.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 25

Volunteer activities include litter clean ups and recycling drives or events, painting over graffiti in public spaces, parade bead removal, minor repairs or improvements and landscaping. For a complete list of the City’s current volunteer opportunities, visit cityofpensacola.com/570/Volunteer.

Keep Pensacola Beautiful

Lend A Hand!

Summer Volunteer Opportunities for Youth & Families

by Morgan Cole

Looking to engage your child in some meaningful activities during their spare time this summer?

Have a teen needing to complete volunteer hours for a scholarship program?

There is no better time than now to instill a love of service in your children.

While it’s important for young people to view giving back as a civic duty and its own reward, studies show that volunteering has many personal benefits for youth.

Volunteering often helps to develop stronger self-esteem, a deeper sense of empathy and a broader understanding and acceptance of those from different cultural and social backgrounds. Throw some leadership skills and expanded friend circles into the mix and it’s clear that volunteering offers an array of benefits for any age.

Sign them up for a few local volunteer activities to augment their schedule of work, watching summer movies, texting their 26 | MAY 2022

friends and playing video games. These activities will help them grow socially, get some fresh air and learn additional responsibility. From conservation to education, we’ve rounded up a list of some local organizations that offer a variety of current and year-round volunteer opportunities for both youth and families.

The City of Pensacola Whether you need to accumulate volunteer hours or you just simply want to help out, there are a number of opportunities available throughout the year with the City of Pensacola. Volunteering for our city is a great way for youth, teens and families to give back to our local community in meaningful ways. The City is always seeking individuals, groups and organizations of all ages to volunteer their time and talents to the Parks and Recreation Department. There are two basic categories of volunteer opportunities available. One category is Community Outreach, where volunteers assist with youth, adult and senior citizen programs, programs for the disabled, athletics, special events and at community centers in Pensacola. The second volunteer category is Community Service, in which volunteers assist with things like park beautification and community cleanups to help protect Pensacola’s valuable natural resources.

This community-based nonprofit organization aims to improve the quality of life by addressing common environmental challenges throughout Escambia County.

Currently, the organization’s efforts are focused on education, litter reduction and recycling initiatives. Youth, teens and families are always welcome to volunteer their time to assist with a wide range of tasks from beach and community-wide cleanups to other large-scale annual fundraisers and events throughout the year. Most volunteer shifts range from 2 to 4 hours and young children are required to have adult supervision. Keep Pensacola Beautiful (KPB) also has a Youth Advisory Council designed for Escambia County high school students to participate in a servicelearning and leadership development program. Each year, ten members are given the opportunity to develop and coordinate their own beautification project within their own school or local community.

Youth Council members contribute to the organization’s annual programming, participate in training sessions and visit local municipalities or businesses, while acting as ambassadors and leaders for youth service. KPB is currently seeking volunteers to assist with their upcoming Paint Your Heart Out event on May 7 at the Bay Bluffs Park in Pensacola. Organized by KPB’s Youth Advisory Council in an effort to beautify Bay Bluffs Park, volunteers will be painting over the heavily graffitied boardwalk area to help give the green space a well-deserved face lift. For a complete list of year-round and upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit keeppensacolabeautiful.org.

West Florida Public Libraries West Florida Public Libraries have several volunteer opportunities available for teens.

Teens under the age of 18 are welcome to volunteer their time in assisting the library with a variety of tasks at one of their many branch locations throughout the county.

Volunteers may serve individually or as part of a group and volunteer hours count toward

Bright Futures Scholarship requirements as well as others. There are a number of volunteer activities to assist with from sorting books to assisting with book sales and other summer programming events. If you or your family are interested in volunteering your time with our local library, visit one of the many WFPL locations, or visit mywfpl.com to download an online application form, and simply return it to any library location.

Manna Food Pantries This local grassroots organization is dedicated to fighting hunger in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Manna provides groceries directly to individuals and families in need and all services are all offered free of charge.

The organization relies on volunteers and funds received from individuals, foundations, faith-based organizations, corporations and businesses throughout the community.

Manna is always seeking volunteers to assist with their food pantry and food drive events. Other volunteer opportunities include administrative support, warehouse assistance, housekeeping, inventory, pantry assistance, special events and assisting with client services. Youth under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult. For complete details on available volunteer opportunities and to complete the online volunteer application, visit mannahelps.org/participate/volunteer.

Pensacola Humane Society

YMCA of Northwest Florida

The Pensacola Humane Society (PHS) is another local non-profit organization that offers a number of volunteer opportunities for its many services and programs provided to benefit communities in Pensacola, Gulf Breeze and Milton. PHS provides opportunities for both individuals and local groups needing to accrue mandatory volunteer hours for things like high school, collegiate or military requirements. The organization’s volunteer program consists of nearly 200 individuals who regularly donate their time for a variety of tasks and activities throughout the year. PHS is always seeking new volunteers to help out with their many programs and services. Some of their regular volunteer opportunities include cutting dog treats, helping with laundry, processing donations, providing administrative support, cleaning litter boxes and kitten play areas, tidying the grounds, walking the dogs, taking dogs to training sessions, working at community events and providing tours to potential adopters. Individuals interested in volunteering their time with PHS will need to complete and submit the required volunteer application, which can be accessed online at pensacolahumane.org/ volunteer. Once applications are approved, individuals must then complete a brief orientation session prior to volunteering.

Visit pensacolahumane.org for details on current volunteer opportunities.

The YMCA of Northwest Florida is always looking for more hands to “hold the rope” for their many locations throughout the Northwest community. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, YMCA provides meaningful volunteer opportunities to give men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life the resources and support they need to be healthy, confident, connected and secure. The Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA offers a wide range of regular volunteer opportunities like helping out in the aquatic center, greeting and assisting members with check-in, wellness ambassadors, beautification team, individuals to help supervise youth in the KidZone area and providing support for special events and fundraisers throughout the year. For complete details on available volunteer opportunities and to download the required volunteer application, visit ymcanwfl.org.

Pensacola Habitat for Humanity Volunteers play a vital role in the mission of Pensacola Habitat for Humanity. Each year thousands of volunteers contribute their time and talent to help build homes and assist with community projects and events throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. The organization relies on support from volunteers to continue its work both in our local community and abroad. Local volunteers of all ages are needed throughout the year to assist with construction projects, painting homes, minor home repairs, handicap accessibility accommodations, neighborhood cleanups, gardening and more. The organization is also in need of volunteers at the ReStore shop, which sells new and donated items at deeply discounted prices. ReStore volunteer activities include donation processing, merchandising, furniture repair, painting, shopper assistants and more. Individuals are required to be at least 16 years of age to volunteer at the ReStore. For complete details on available volunteer opportunities, visit pensacolahabitat.org.

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Splash Into

Summer

OWA’s Indoor Water Park Opens This Summer Swimsuit? Check!

Sunscreen? Check!

Ready to thrill and chill?

Check! Get your summer accessories and your love of adventure ready because the long anticipated water park at OWA is set to open this summer in Foley, Alabama.

In early spring, OWA Parks & Resort revealed exciting updates on their new indoor water park and unveiled their new branding concept for the amusement park. Originally opened as The Park at OWA in 2017, the resort is transforming its 14-acre amusement park, featuring 23 rides and attractions, as well as a new $70 million water park expansion into a tropical paradise oasis named Tropic Falls.

of the 520-acre property was also inspired by the nearby Gulf of Mexico. In keeping with the big water theme, the entire amusement park is being redesigned with new tropical décor and other special touches to create an island paradise for its guests. This transformation will include a complete makeover of the front gate and an expansion of tropical theming throughout.

Owned and operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, OWA’s name is derived from a Creek word for “big water,” and the tropical theme

The new water park boasts 100,000-square-feet (bigger than a football field) of indoor space featuring a retractable roof and sidewall, eleven

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 29

Splash Into Summer

The Tropic Falls indoor water park boasts 100,000 square feet of indoor fun.

total water slides, a lazy river and more. Thrillseekers are sure to enjoy the six slides available at the slide tower including Tangerine Scream, a 75-foot free-fall slide with a drop floor. The water park will also feature outdoor amenities including a 30,000-square-foot wave pool named Big Water Bay, a surf simulator, private cabana rentals and an outdoor dining restaurant named Smugglers Café.

OWA’s water park is unique not just to Coastal Alabama, but within the entire U.S. as well. “We are so excited to share that upon completion, Tropic Falls will be the only indoor water park in the United States with a retractable wall and retractable roof, allowing for the ultimate experience in Coastal Alabama climate control,” Kristin Hellmich, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for OWA Parks & Resort said.

30 | MAY 2022

In keeping with the tropical theme, Tropic Falls has proudly introduced a toucan as their first mascot. “Of course, no water park would be complete without a fun, new pal to hang out with,” Hellmich said. “Our new toucan friend is flying into his new home and we’re so excited for our guests to meet him.”

As a special treat, guests will also have the chance to vote on their favorite name for the park’s new tropical friend or suggest one themselves. The survey link is available on OWA Parks & Resort Facebook page.

The addition of the water parks comes with some economic benefits for the region as well.

“We are incredibly proud of OWA, the direction it’s moving and the economic impact it continues

to have–not only on the local community but on the state as well. With the addition of the new indoor water park and the wave pool, we will be creating an additional 400 new jobs for our community. That opportunity, to create such a strong impact for our community, is something we hold to the highest regard,” Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA) President and CEO, Cody Williams said.

While the exact opening date is yet to be announced, OWA expects the water park to open this summer. For up-to-date water park news, visit VisitOWA.com and follow OWA on social media.

• Outdoor amenities include a lazy river, a wave pool, multiple slides and a kiddie area.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 31

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Instilling a love of learning through play, exploration, problem-solving and skill development

We are driven by the desire to educate the whole child through a commitment to excellence, supporting children in the classroom, on the playground, and beyond.

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schedule aBIG... tour & At EDS 2nd - 5th we Grade dream Engaging and hands-on learning opportunities where students are encouraged to learn through active participation

We provide a nurturing environment for all learning styles.

Students transition from beginning readers to researchers and from basic mathematicians to problem- solvers, all while developing critical thinking skills, and creativity.

32 | MAY 2022

Encouraging academic exploration and risk-taking to thrive in a small classroom environment with passionate specialized teachers

Our teachers are dedicated to helping students discover their individual strengths. Relationship building, chapel, and service learning demonstrate our strongly held belief that character development is just as important as academic development. In mind, body, and spirit EDS prepares students for the rigors of high school and adulthood.

PreK2 - 1st Grade

Our classrooms are inviting and the curriculum is focused on reading and math readiness, art, science, and social studies. We emphasize social development, task management and creativity. The integrated enrichment programs include music, Spanish, library, movement/physical education, technology and chapel.

6th - 8th Grade

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In fifth grade, students focus on developing study and organizational skills, time management, and decisionmaking. Students engage in an integrated approach to learning.

Weaving together literature, contemporary issues, science, economics, mathematics, and writing, students gain skills for living and working in a global community.

850.434.6474 | www.edscc.org | 223 N Palafox Street

SUPER SUMMER ER THE PENSACOLA AREA OFFERS A SUMM CAMP FOR EVERY INTEREST

F

OR KIDS, summer time is all about slip and slides, pool parties, beach days, and just having fun. For working parents, however, summer often finds them struggling to entertain kids in a safe environment all week while still meeting their work obligations. There are many ways for parents to give kids the opportunity to create fantastic summer memories and learn a thing or two in the process.

Plus, summer camps help kids develop important social and problem-solving skills, which leads to improved self confidence, greater independence and a feeling of accomplishment. Enter Pensacola’s local summer camps, which offer a middle ground for parents and children with diverse projects that stimulate young brains and bodies with plenty of fun activities while giving the parents the time to work.

Each camp offers an array of themes that aim to get students involved in various topics including art, education, physical activities and more.

However, if students are attracted to a more specific subject in the arts, academic or active categories, there are specialty camps designed for each child’s individual interests and skills.

ARTS

Neighborhood Children’s Theatre

Ballet Pensacola

Dates: June 13 - July 24 Times: 9 am - 12 pm Ages: 2-17 Where: Pine Forest United Methodist Church, 2800 Wilde Lake Blvd., Pensacola Cost: $175-$250 varied by program (10% off when you register 2+ children, tuition assistance available) Info: myneighborhoodtheatre.com

Dates: Weekly sessions from June 6-30 Times: 9 am – 12 pm for 3-5-year olds; 1 pm – 4 pm for 5-10-year olds Ages: 3-5, 5-7, and 7-10 Where: Pensacola Cultural Center, 400 S. Jefferson St. Cost: 3-5-year olds: $150/one-week, $550/four-week; 7-10-year olds: $180/one-week, $500/four-week Info: balletpensacola.com Ballet Pensacola is offering summer programs for children with four sessions per day with students grouped together according to age. Young performers will learn individual and group dances, engage in storytelling, play games and experience a variety of other fun activities. This year, students in the Creative Dance Camp (ages 3-5) and Ballerina Camp (ages 5-7) will focus on one of the following productions based on their week of enrollment: Wizard of Oz, Coppelia, Sleeping Beauty or Swan Lake. The Ballet Boot Camp, for ages 7-10, provides valuable training for both experienced dancers and beginners alike. Ballet Boot Camp’s comprehensive curriculum includes strong ballet training, ballet theories, and other dance disciplines. Dancer uniforms vary according to their age groups.

The Neighborhood Children’s Theatre is offering four summer camps this year: Rock Stars, Shakes in Space, Training Camp and Groove With Me. All camps and classes culminate in a final presentation for friends and family. Rock Stars (ages 6-11) will feature selections from popular rock-n-roll musicals like Grease, Godspell and more. Children will learn scenes, songs, and choreography. Shakes in Space (ages 6-11) puts a twist on Shakespeare– students will learn acting and physical comedy, no-contact stage combat, playwriting and adaptation. Actornauts Training Camp (ages 12-17) is a comprehensive

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 33

SUPER SUMMER theatre experience featuring auditions, training camp and performances.

This program offers a wonderful experience for teens who are interested in all aspects of creating theatre. While Actornauts is auditionbased, no previous theatre experience is necessary.

Groove With Me (ages 2 to 4+) is a series of musical playdates for toddlers and their caregivers that will focus on identifying and managing emotions. Groove With Me dates are to be announced.

Pensacola Opera: Overture Dates: July 18-22 Times: 9 am – 2 pm, Monday – Thursday; 12 pm – 5 pm, Friday Ages: 8-13 Where: Pensacola Opera, 75 S. Tarragona St. Cost: $125 (scholarship opportunities available) Info: pensacolaopera.com The Pensacola Opera’s summer camp allows students to learn about vocal training, dramatic coaching, dance and set and costume design. Over the course of a week, children will work with experienced theatre professionals, musicians and music educators to put together their own unique production of Puccini’s La bohème. At the end of the week, the students perform the production for parents and friends. From creating sets and costumes, to learning their own roles, campers will take part in all aspects of creating an exciting performance.

First City Arts Center “Creatisphere” Dates: May 30 - August 5 (weekly) Times: 9 am - 4 pm (extended care options available) Ages: Ascending, Grades K-5 Where: First City Arts Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. Cost: $240 for Members / $265 for Non-Members Info: firstcityart.org Creatisphere inspires children through active learning and hands-on exploration.

The camp offers engaging, creative experiences, in which children are

encouraged to experiment, innovate and create. Each week there is a different theme, including Ancient Art, Comics and Cartoons, Paints & Potions and Modern Masters. Camps feature various art mediums like pottery, sculpture, 3-D design, printmaking, costume design and more! Discovery, movement, and play are an important balance to inside classroom time at Creatisphere Summer Camp.

Campers will spend break times outside observing nature, or visiting the labyrinth and art park adjacent to our campus.

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Sing in the Summer Dates: June 20 – July 31 Times: Varies by session Ages: Grades 1-12 Where: Pensacola Children’s Chorus, 46 E. Chase St. Cost: $125-$225 varies by session (scholarships available) Info: pensacolasings.org/sing-in-the-summer The Pensacola Children’s Chorus is offering five summer camps this year with unique programs that range from musicals to dancing! The Summer Festival camp is an all-inclusive choral experience with movement, music education and performance that is best for students that are new to PCC. Time to Shine features inclusive classes for exceptional learners that cater to each student’s unique abilities, one of the few local programs to offer specialized education in the performing arts. With such a wide variety of camps, there’s something for everyone with an interest in performing arts.

PMA Summer Art Camps Dates: June 20-24; June 27-July 1; July 18-22; July 25-29 Times: Full day/9 am - 3:15 pm, Half Day/ 9 am - 12 pm (Aftercare options available) Ages: 1st through 10th grade Where: Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Cost: PMA Members: $200/full day, $120/half day; Regular Rate: $250/full day, $175/half day Info: pensacolamuseum.org PMA Summer Art Camps include a variety of genres for every age. This year’s camps allow campers to work with a variety of art mediums. PMA is offering four camps that are still accepting registrations: Art Adventures in Nature, Art Investigations, Experimentation & Expression and Creative Camp. The Art Adventures in Nature camp for 1st-4th grade explores the natural side of art by allowing campers to gather natural materials to create with and use flora and fauna as inspiration. The Art Investigations camp designed for 5th through 7th graders explores a variety of mediums in a hands-on way. Campers will explore drawing, painting, mixed media and sculpture, as well as learn about the careers and techniques of famous artists.

The Experimentation & Expression camp for 7th through 10th graders allows campers to express themselves through painting, drawing, collage and printmaking, while learning about color theory and the essential elements and principles of design.

The Creative Camp for for youth, ages 7 to 12 years of age, is designed specifically for children on the autism spectrum. The program focuses on nurturing artistic

development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Campers will interact with works of art in the galleries, engage in a variety of handson activities and explore the creative process of visual art in the art studio.

Pensacola Little Theatre Dates: June 6 - July 29 Times: Broadway Babies: 9 am – 12 pm; Lab Rats: 1 pm- 5 pm; Summer Stars: 9 am – 3 pm; Dungeons & Dragons: 1 pm - 4 pm Ages: Broadway Babies, ages 4-7; Lab Rats, ages 12-17; Summer Stars, ages 8-15; Dungeons & Dragons, ages 12-15 Where: The Center, 400 S. Jefferson St. Cost: Varies Info: pensacolalittletheatre.com Pensacola Little Theatre has a selection of summer camps lined up this year including Broadway Babies, Lab Rats, Dungeons & Dragons and Summer Stars that cater to a variety of age groups. In this year’s Summer Stars camp, campers will rehearse, build and perform the one-act version of Disney’s Descendants. Campers will be cast, rehearse and have a performance.

Broadway Babies teaches young stars the basics of performance while also having fun by playing theatre games. Lab Rats is a devised theatre camp that allows campers to invent and produce their own theatrical experiment. Dungeons & Dragons is an adventure camp based around, you guessed it, the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons. Campers will improve their role-playing skills and have fun at this adventurous camp!

STEM, gymnastics, art, swimming and more. The options for enrollment are practically endless and parents have the choice to register children for individual courses (half-day), or week-long sessions that run daily from 8:15 am to 4:15 pm.

Students must bring or purchase a lunch, and lunches are available for purchase for $30 a week at the on-campus Subway restaurant. Students are also encouraged to bring snacks and water. For a successful first day at PSC Kids’ College, make sure your child wears comfortable clothing and give your child a written list of their classes.

Pensacola Cooks Dates: June 6 - July 29, weekly (closed week of July 4) Times: 9 am - 12 pm, 2 pm - 5 pm Ages: 6-19 (each class has its own age range) Where: 3624 Barrancas Ave, Pensacola Cost: $225 Info: app.getoccasion.com/p/stacks/5317/9963 Pensacola Cooks offers a variety of cooking courses for a wide age range of students.

Students will strengthen their cooking skills, discover new techniques, build their confidence in the kitchen and have fun!

Every week there are two classes, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

The classes include Passport to Baking Through the Continents, Passport to Baking Through the U.S.A., Camp Cook the Books, Camp CSI: Culinary Science Investigations, Camp Culinary Cinema and PCTeen Culinary Mentor Camp.

Emerald Coast Science Center Dates: June 6 - July 26 Times: 9 am - 1 pm Ages: 5-12 Where: 31 SW Memorial Parkway, Fort Walton Beach Cost: $40 per-workshop for a member, $45 perworkshop for a nonmember; Available discounts: $15 off for each additional sibling, 10% off when you sign up for at least eight workshops, 15 percent off when you sign up for at least 12 workshops Info: ecscience.org/summer-steam-workshops The Emerald Coast Science Center is offering a wide variety of STEAM-based (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) camps this summer.

On Monday and Tuesday of every week from June 6 - July 26 (only Monday for the week of July 5), campers will participate in a themed workshop that explores a specific science topic. Some of the weekly workshop themes include Jurassic Journey, Aquatic Adventures and Sci-Fi Science.

Campers can select a workshop that suits their scientific interests. Various areas of science will be explored including astronomy, paleontology, geology, robotics and more. Campers need to bring lunch and are recommended to bring bug spray and sunscreen for outdoor activities.

EDUCATION PSC Kids College Dates: June 6 - July 29 Times: Morning Camp 8:15-11:45am; Afternoon Camp 12:45- 4:15pm; (Drop off 7:45; Extended drop-off 7:157:45am; Pick-up 4:30; Extended pick-up 4:30-5pm) Ages: 6-12 Where: PSC Pensacola Campus, 1000 College Blvd., Bldg. 96 Cost: $75 half-day camps, $150 full-day camps, $20/per-week (extended care option) Info: pensacolastate.edu/ce Pensacola State College is offering specialty camp sessions in the areas of PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 35

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Dates: Varies depending on camps Times: Varies depending on camps Ages: 5 – 13 for day camps; grades 5th – 12th for overnight camps Where: 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island Cost: $35 – $75 for day camps; $360 - $920 for overnight camps Info: disl.edu

Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church Dates: June 13 - 17 Times: 9 am - 12 pm Ages: 4+ Where: 75 Fairpoint Drive, Gulf Breeze Cost: $10 Suggested Donation Info: gbumc.org At Everest Vacation Bible School, kids embark on the coolest adventure of the summer. Kids discover how to see evidence of God in everyday life!

UWF Explore Summer Camps Dates: June 6 -August 5weekly) Times: Varies by session Ages: Grades K-12 Where: Varies by session; will be at the UWF Main campus (11000 University Pkwy.), Pensacola Museum of Art, Gulf Breeze Elementary or downtown Pensacola Cost: Varies by session Info: uwf.edu/explorecamps UWF Explore Summer Camps will be offering STEM, language and writing, art and social studies camps for campers in incoming kindergarten through 12th grade.

Camps are one week long and encourage students to discover the world through various hands-on activities. UWF Explore Camp’s many programs include LEGO Robotics, Animal Planet, Mission to Mars, Improv Camp and Marine Science.

36 | DECEMBER 2021

Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC) Robotics Camp Dates: June 6-9 Times: 9 am - 3 pm Ages: Rising 8th grade students Where: Institute for Human & Machine Cognition, 40 S Alcaniz St. Cost: $180 (financial aid available) Info: ihmc.us IHMC’s 2022 Summer Robotics Camp offers middle school students the opportunity to learn about computer programming and robots. Campers will work in teams to master Lego Mindstorms challenges. They will further develop their teamwork skills, their confidence in problem solving, and their creativity. Campers will hear several short presentations about state-of-the-art research at IHMC, and they will have the opportunity to eat lunch with an IHMC research scientist, in small groups. Also included is a tour of the IHMC Robotics Lab.

The Discovery Hall Programs offer a variety of marine science programs for children during the summer. In these camp programs, students will discover, learn about, and interact with marine life and the marine environment. In addition to the popular day camps, Dauphin Island Sea lab also offers overnight camps for grades 5 through 12.

Bodacious Culinary Kids Camp Dates: May 30 - June 3 Times: 9 am - 1 pm Ages: 6 - 9 Where: 407 S. Palafox St. Pensacola Cost: $285 Info: eventbrite.com/e/bodacious-summerkids-camp-ages-6-9-tickets-304200942207 Campers will learn the skills needed to be successful, safe, and creative chefs.

Skills taught will include basic prep skills, knife skills (when applicable), and food prep techniques. The campers will be educated on healthy eating habits and will be engaged with hands-on cooking learning. Each child will receive a chef apron. Graduation certificates will be presented on the last day of camp.

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SUPER SUMMER Pensacola MESS Hall Summer Camps Dates: May 31 – August 5 Times: Half-days: 9 am - 12 pm; Full-days: 9 am - 4 pm Ages: Grades 1st - 6th Where: Pensacola MESS Hall, 418 E Wright St. Cost: Prices vary from $24 - $300 according to times, weeks and membership status Info: pensacolamesshall.org This summer, ignite scientific curiosity with themed camps offered at Pensacola MESS Hall! Camp themes at MESS Hall include Science Sampler, Inventor’s Workshop, Land of LEGO, Messlandia, Girl’s Garage, and Mix It Up. Camp times and schedules vary depending upon the program.

Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) Dates: June 6 – August 5, (Nine weekly sessions) Times: 8 am – 11:30 am with extended care options available Ages: Age 4 to Children entering 4th grade Where: MSP Campus, 1010 N. 12th Ave. Cost: Prices vary from $185 - $2,760 according to extended care times and weeks Info: montessoripensacola.com/ learning-at-msp/summer-camp/ Montessori School of Pensacola has several summer camp sessions lined up this year.

In addition to recreational summer fun outdoors, students will learn about different world cultures, dinosaurs, physics and engineering, science experiments, music styles and instruments, as well as different artistic styles and mediums. Extended care options are available with drop-off as early as 7 am and pick-up times as late as 5:30 pm.

Rising Minds Learning Dates: July 11-15, July 18-22, and July 25-29 Times: 10 am11 am and 5:30 pm-6:30 pm Ages: Grades K - 5th Where: Rising Minds Learning, 29 E. Wright St., Pensacola Cost: $135 per-class Info: risingmindslearning.com Rising Minds Learning offers a variety of one-week summer courses for students with every interest and academic need.

38 | MAY 2022

Camps include LEGO League, Reading Intervention, Spanish and Middle School Math Bootcamp. LEGO League introduces 4 to 6-year old students to math and engineering through LEGOS. Reading Intervention allows 1st through 3rd graders to work with a reading specialist to improve fluency, phonics and reading confidence.

Want to introduce your child to Spanish?

Enroll any child under the age of 12 in the Rising Minds’ Spanish course. LEGO League, Reading Intervention and Spanish will be offered on July 11-15, July 18-22 and July 25-29. Middle School Math Bootcamp will help 7th through 8th grade students get their brain back in gear before the start of school with exercises in 7th grade math and pre-algebra. Middle School Math Bootcamp is only available for one week, July 25-29.

Episcopal Day School Dates: May 31 – July 28 Times: 8 am - 4 pm (extended Care available 4 pm - 5:30 pm); Full and half- day options available Ages: PreK-3 - 8th Grade Where: The Hilton-Green Campus, 601 N. Palafox St. (rising 1st graders and under); South Campus, 223 N. Palafox St. (rising 2nd through 8th graders) Cost: $240/full-day for one week; $155/half-day for one week Info: edssc.org Episcopal Day School is planning for nine weeks of summer fun with its annual summer camp sessions. PreK-3 through 1st grade campers will remain with the same group of students throughout the day and enjoy activities, games and more.

2nd through 8th grade students will

have the opportunity to pick a morning and afternoon session to complete their schedule. Options will vary each week, and many camps will have a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) emphasis. There are classes to suit every child’s interests. Some of the classes offered include piano, cheerleading, chemistry, Minecraft Mania and Learn to Podcast. Full and half-day options are available for both sections of camps.

CITY CAMPS Play Pensacola Summer Day Camp Dates: May 31-August 9 Times: 7 am-6 pm Ages: 5-12 Where: Cobb, Fricker, Gull Point and Woodland Heights Community Centers Cost: Cobb, Fricker and Woodland Heights: $54 weekly rate City Resident, $63 weekly rate NonCity Resident; Gull Point: $95 weekly rate City Resident, $119 weekly rate Non-City Resident Play Pensacola Summer Day Camps are a safe, affordable and inclusive environment for your child to explore, make new friends, and create lasting memories. Keep your child active, healthy and having fun all summer long! Camps offer engaging daily activities like games, field trips, swimming and more! Register in person at the participating center or online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

Discover Alabama's Water Resources There's an adventure for every age at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Camps, Excursions, Classes, and more are offered year-round.

What will you discover on your next visit?

Make plans today at www.disl.edu.

Active learning and hands-on exploration of creative mediums for grades K-5. The weekly themes incorporate STEAM, history, conservation, world cultures, yoga, and games!

WEEKLY CAMPS May 30th–August 5th T E E NS C A M PN C E D U A N N OA P R IL IN M IC S G C E R AIN T IN 3D PR ORE! &M

A n ci e nt A r t Myth s & Magi c al C re at u re s A r t Ro ck s!

Mo d e r n Ma ste r s P ai nt s & Poti o n s A d ve nt u re s i n th e S e re nget i O ve r th e R ai n b ow C o m i c s & C ar to o n s L ege n d s of th e S e a G o G re e n !

Pottery, Drawing, Sculpture, Collage, 3-D Design, Storytelling, Mixed Media, Painting, Printmaking, Glass, Textiles, Costume Design, Building and more!

Scholarships Available!

For more information: FirstCityArt.org

850.429.1222

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 39

SUPER SUMMER the elements in playful ways using all the senses (smell, sight, touch, taste, intuition and sound). Please bring a yoga mat, water and a healthy snack each day. Register online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

Beginning Fishing Camp Dates: May 31 – June 3 Times 8 am – 4 pm, Tuesday - Thursday, 8 am – 1 pm on Friday Ages: 7 – 15 Where: Bayview Community Center, 2000 E Lloyd St., Pensacola Cost: $120 for city residents, $130 for non-city resident

Princess Camp

Mermaid Dance Camp

Dates: June 6-10 Times: 9 am – 12 pm Ages: 4-10 Where: Gull Point Community Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola Cost: $70 for city residents, $80 for non-city residents

Dates: July 11 – 15 Times: 9 am – 12 pm Ages: 4-10 Where: Gull Point Community Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola Cost: $70 for city residents, $80 for non-city residents

This week-long camp will include learning several dances, making princess party crafts and costumes, and concludes with a mini recital. Please bring a snack each day. Register online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

Unicorns and Fairy Tale Dance Camp Dates: June 20 – 24 Times: 9 am – 12 pm Ages: 4-10 Where: Gull Point Community Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola Cost: $70 for city residents, $80 for non-city residents This week-long camp will include learning several dances, making unicorn and Fairy Tale crafts and costumes, and concludes with a mini performance and family party to display all that is learned.

Please bring a snack each day. Register online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

40 | MAY 2022

This week-long camp will include learning several dances, making mermaid crafts and costumes, and concludes with a mini performance and family party to display all that is learned. Please bring a snack each day. Register online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

Galactic Child Yoga Camp Dates: June 20 – 24 Times: 9 am – 12 pm Ages: 4-10 Where: East Pensacola Heights Clubhouse, 3208 E Gonzalez St., Pensacola Cost: $90 for city residents, $100 for non-city residents In this week-long camp explore movement, mindfulness, art, mandalas and games.

This camp inspires kids to increase their flexibility and strength, improve their self-esteem and self-awareness and encourage creativity and cooperation.

This year’s camp theme is a magical week of yoga, art and the elements! This camp will connect students with the elements of earth, water, fire, air, and the stars through creative activities, physical movement and mindful artistic experiences. Get excited to create art, practice elementinspired yoga postures and get to know

Learn to fish, identify species and enjoy the outdoors. Participants will learn fishing fundamentals such as bait and tackle, species identification, rules and regulations and morphology. Register online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

Kayak / Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Camp Dates: June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1 Times: 8 am – 4 pm, Monday - Thursday, 8 am – 1 pm on Friday Ages: 9-16 Where: Bayview Community Center, 2000 E Lloyd St., Pensacola Cost: $140 weekly rate City Resident, $150 weekly rate Non-City Resident Your child will learn the fundamentals of stand-up paddle board and kayaking, first in a pool then out on the open waters.

There will be a river trip on Thursday.

Advanced Fishing Camp Dates: June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1 Times: 8 am – 4 pm, Monday - Thursday 8 am – 1 pm on Friday Ages: 8-16 Where: Bayview Community Center, 2000 E Lloyd St., Pensacola Cost: $265 weekly rate for city residents, $275 weekly rate for non-city residents If your child already knows how to fish and wants to discover places in Pensacola to fish, this is the camp for them! This camp offers an extended focus on bait and tackle, species identification, morphology with a charter trip on Thursday.

Discover the element of surprise.

Animal Encounters • Planetarium Nights • Interactive sciPad New Exhibits • Indoor & Outdoor Fun • Summer STEAM Workshops ecscience.org 850-664-1261 31 SW Memorial Pkwy Fort Walton Beach, FL

SUPER SUMMER Adventure Camp Dates: July 11 – 15, July 18 – 22, July 25 – 29 Times: 8 am – 4 pm, Monday - Thursday, 8 am – 1 pm on Friday Ages: 8-16 Where: Bayview Community Center, 2000 E Lloyd St., Pensacola Cost: $140 weekly rate for city residents, $150 weekly rate for non-city residents This is one of those camps your child will talk about for years! They will have fun learning about kayaking, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, archery and environmental stewardship.

42nd Annual Chip Boes Championship Basketball Camp Dates: June 6 – 10, June 20 – 24 & July 18 – 22 Times: 9 am – 12 pm Ages: 7-14 Where: Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA, 165 East Intendencia St. Cost: $105 per-week The Chip Boes Championship Basketball Camp is a five-day clinic with a strong emphasis on individual skill development led by highly successful former high school and college coach and fivetime “Coach of the Year” award winner Chip Boes. Each participant receives a basketball, camp shirt, ice cream party, group and individual competitions, league and tournament play and more!

Challenger International Soccer Camp Dates: June 6 – 10 Times: 8 am – 8:45 am, Tiny Tikes (Ages 3 – 5); 9 am – 12 pm, Half Day (Ages 4 – 14) Ages: 3-14 Where: Roger Scott Athletic Complex, 2130 Summit Blvd., Pensacola Cost: $118 Tiny Tikes, $157 Half Day Challenge Sports, the leading soccer camp company in North America has combined the most popular elements of British Soccer and TetraBrazil, integrating them into a collection of the most effective soccer practices used by youth teams around the world!

42 | MAY 2022

Girls Summer Volleyball Camp Dates: June 13 – 17, July 11 – 15 Times: 9 am – 12 pm Ages: 9-16 Where: Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA 165 East Intendencia St. Cost: $90 per week Onsite registration is available on the first day. Mail registration to Vickrey Resource Center located at2130 Summit Boulevard in Pensacola. Please make checks payable to Jennifer Belarmino. Don’t miss this great camp conducted by Bishop State Community College Assistant Head Volleyball Coach, Jennifer Belarmino.

Joining her will be players from Bishop State.

ACTIVE Summer Horse Camp at Iron Stables Dates: May 31 - June 3, June 6 - 10, June 13 - 17 & June 27 - July 1 Times: 8 am - 2 pm Ages: 6+ Where: Iron Stables, 11 Eden Lane, Cantonment Cost: $350 per session, discounts available for those attending multiple weeks Info: iron-horse-stables.com/camps Horse Camp involves the daily routine of taking care of your own horse. Campers learn safety around the horses, how they are fed, the importance of water, their breeds and colors, learning or improving their grooming and saddling skills and will even clean a stall! The best part of the day, of course, is RIDING their new equine friend!

Each day at camp gives the camper a new adventure by learning respect for the horses and each other and responsibilities that will carry on into their everyday lives and for their futures!

Gulf Breeze Funplex Dates: May 30 - August 5, weekly (closed July 4-8) Times: 7 am - 6 pm Ages: 5-12 Where: 3123 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze Cost: Full Camp Day Pre-registered: $45 first child / $40 sibling; Full Camp Day Drop-in (if available): $55 / $55 sibling; Full Week: $165 first child / $155 sibling; Registration fees may apply Info: gulfbreezegymnastics.com/2022-summer Kids will get to enjoy all the fun that the Funplex has to offer at their weekly summer camp! The Funplex summer camp features themed weeks, water days and use of the Funplex equipment. Campers need to bring a lunch, bag and water bottle.

Cordova Lanes Summer Bowling Camp Dates: June 6 - 10, June 13 - 17, June 20 - 24 & June 27 - July 1, July 11 - 15, July 18 - 22, July 25 - 29, August 1-5 Times: 10 am - 1 pm Ages: 5–18 Where: 2111 Airport Blvd., Pensacola Cost: $130 weekly – includes child’s bowling ball and lunch; $90 weekly – without bowling ball Info: cordovalanes.com Students will begin with bowling basics and end with a greater appreciation for bowling and a comfort level that will let them enjoy bowling more– all with their very own bowling ball. Coaches are available to help students develop a killer shot, or to just show them enough to allow them to enjoy the sport. Lunch and rental shoes are provided each day.

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SUPER SUMMER Innerlight Surf Camp Dates: Varies by session, various sessions available between May 31 and August 3 Times: 9 am-1 pm Ages: 7+ Where: The parking lot between the Portofino Resorts and the Calle Hermosa neighborhood on Pensacola Beach.

Cost: $180 per session (Discounts available for multiple family members participating) Info: innerlightsurf.com

Marcus Pointe’s Kidz Pointe Summer Camp Dates: May 23 - July 29 Times: 8 am - 6 pm Ages: Grades K4 - 5th Where: Marcus Pointe Christian School, 6205 North W St., Pensacola Cost: $200/week; $100 registration fee; $150 activity fee for K4-K5; $200 activity free for 1st-5th graders; discounts are available if the ten weeks of camp are paid in full.

Info: marcuspointechristian.org/summercamp Elementary school-aged children will have a blast at Kidz Pointe Summer Camp.

This camp features field trips, outdoor fun, activities and games. Weekly camp themes in the past have included Water Water Everywhere, Aargh Matey, The Final Frontier, Nerd Explosion, Superheroes, Happy Birthday America, Under the Big Top, Animal Antics and Vacation Bible School. A snack and lunch are provided.

West Florida Baptist Academy Conqueror Day Camp Dates: May 31 – July 29, weekly Times: 7 am – 3 pm (extended care available until 5:30 pm) Ages: 3 –12 Where: West Florida Baptist Church, 5621 Highway 90, Milton Cost: $125 per 5-day week (extended care available for additional $25) / $100 per 3-day week (extended care available for additional $25) Info: wfbacademy.org/daycamp

44 | MAY 2022

West Florida Baptist Academy offers week-long camps throughout the summer.

Activities include Bible stories, swimming, movies, reading club, playground time, field trips, ice cream and more.

Pensacola Yacht Club Summer Sailing Camp & Youth/Adult Sailing Dates: May 30 - August 5 (weekly) Times: Camp: 9 am – 3 pm (Aftercare available 3 pm - 5 pm); Youth/Adult Sailing: 4 pm-8 pm Ages: Camp: ages 6-13; Youth/Adult Sailing, ages 14+ Where: Pensacola Yacht Club, 1897 Cypress St. Cost: Camp: $375/week (aftercare: $25/day or $110/ week); Youth/Adult Sailing: $260/week (Discounts available for PYC members, siblings and those participating in multiple weeks) Info: pycsailingschool.wixsite.com/home/2022summer-camps Pensacola Yacht Club is having its annual summer sailing program starting in May. Students will learn to sail with confidence.

All sessions offer lessons for beginner to advanced students. Students will learn boat rigging, boat handling, basic knots, sailing fundamentals, sportsmanship and boat responsibility. Students are asked to bring a personal flotation device, safety whistle, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, dry change of clothes, clothes to get wet in, closed-toed shoes, water bottle, sack lunch and snack.

Innerlight Surf Shop’s Summer Surf Camp takes place all summer long. Students will learn to surf, surfing etiquette, culture, techniques, wave knowledge, and tides and marine biology. No worries if the surf is flat, the students will still have fun games and activities. Each student will receive a Surf Camp T-shirt, stickers, coupons and other goodies. The students are asked to bring board shorts or a swimsuit, a towel, a lot of sunscreen, a rash guard, a snack/lunch and something to drink.

Waterboyz Surf / Skim Camps Dates: June 13-16, June 20-23, June 27-30, July 5-8, July 11-14, July 18-21, July 25-28, Aug 3-6 Times: 9 am - 12 pm Ages: Ages 7 and up (must be a good swimmer) Where: Park East, Pensacola Beach Cost: $200 per-session Info: waterboyz.com Waterboyz is offering surf and skim camps this summer. All camps offer lessons for beginners to advanced students. Students will learn surfing, paddle boarding, ocean awareness and safety and wave knowledge and etiquette. You may bring your own surfboard. If you don’t have a surfboard or skimboard, you will be provided with one. As rideable surf is not guaranteed every day, the teaching format is subject to change. Alternative programs such as paddleboarding, skimboarding, skateboarding or games will be substituted if a flat spell or bad weather conditions occur. Students are asked to bring sandals, sunscreen, a rash guard and a towel. Each camper will receive a camp t-shirt. We will provide a snack and water. just show them enough to allow them to enjoy the sport. Lunch and rental shoes are provided each day.

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EVENT CALENDAR Burger Battle by the Bay 2022 May 7 This giant backyard burger festival is held annually at the Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park in downtown Pensacola. At the event attendees will have a chance to taste numerous bite-sized samples of mouthwatering grilled burgers made by both professional and amateur teams—and you can vote for your favorite! Event proceeds benefit the charitable programs of the Rotary Club of Pensacola Suburban West and the Cordova Rotary Club.

The event will be held from 11 am to 2 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

For tickets and information, visit eventbrite.com.

The Big Scoop 2022 May 7 Attend one of the sweetest events in town! Head to Seville Square off Government Street in downtown Pensacola on May 7 for The Big Scoop event.

This annual fundraiser is held annually to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida.

Enjoy access to all-you-caneat ice cream and tons of other sweet treats for making a suggested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children.

This family-friendly event will also feature games, activities and more. For complete event details, visit bbbsnwfl.org.

Mom’s Night Out at Odd Colony May 7 Take the night off, kick back and mingle with other local moms on May 7 from 6 pm to 11 pm for Mom’s Night Out at Odd Colony Brewing Company in downtown Pensacola.

Admission is free and the event

will feature live music, a dance party with DJ Dad, champagne specials, karaoke, photo booth fun and delicious eats from Mi Su Street Food. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend. Visit oddcolony. com for complete details.

theatre and surrounding block into an indoor and outdoor entertainment complex, seamlessly fusing local talent and celebration to showcase art as the life of the party. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for tickets and event details.

PMA Members Show 2022 March 11-May 29

Drivin N Cryin at Vinyl Music Hall May 20

The Members Show is an annual celebration of the talent and creativity of the Pensacola Museum of Art’s member community. This year’s exhibition features more than 80 artists working in a diverse range of media. The exhibition was juried by Carrie Ann Baade, with a special People’s Choice Award which was determined by the community.

For complete details, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

Drivin N Cryin with special guests Heavy Kid and Big Jim Brown & the Speedkings will perform at Vinyl Music Hall in downtown Pensacola on May 20. Celebrating their 35th Anniversary together, the Atlanta-based folk rock act, Drivin N Cryin, will bring their tour to Pensacola. Doors open at 7 pm and the show starts at 8 pm. For tickets and event details, visit vinylmusichall.com.

Operazzi Under the Big Top May 13 Pensacola Opera is pleased to present their annual spring fundraiser, Operazzi Under the Big Top on May 13 at 6:30 pm at the Sanders Beach Corinne Jones Resource Center in Pensacola. The black-tie event will feature both live and silent auction items, live music, wine and delicious fare. Themed apparel is encouraged but not required.

For tickets and event details, visit pensacolaopera.com.

PLT Cabaret on Holiday May 14 Pensacola Little Theatre’s annual celebration of art is back and more festive than ever. Join PLT for Cabaret on Holiday on May 14 at 7:30 pm at the Pensacola Little Theatre in downtown Pensacola. Cabaret’s holiday theme transforms the

Movie Night at Blue Wahoos Stadium May 21 Enjoy a family-friendly movie night at Blue Wahoos Stadium on Saturday, May 21 with a showing of Encanto. Tickets are just $5 per-person and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Gates will open at 6 pm and the movie will start at 7 pm. Visit bluewahoos.com for tickets and information.

Memorial Weekend Pensacola Beach 2022 May 26 - 29 Johnny Chisholm Presents Memorial Weekend Pensacola, the largest LGBTQ event held in North America for the past 29 years. Head out to Pensacola Beach May 26-29 for the annual Memorial Day celebration at Park East from 9 pm to 3 am presented by by Johnny Chisholm featuring loads of fun and live entertainment by Ben

Bakson, Isaac Escalante, Dan Slater, Dani Toro, Will Lowe, Kidd Madonny and more. You must be 18+ to attend. VIP Weekend Passes and individual event tickets are available online at johnnychisholm.com.

P3 Comedy Fest Presents Jade Esteban Estrada May 27 P3 Comedy Fest brings the greatest LGBTQ+ Comedians from all over the country to Pensacola, FL for a weekend of laughs at The Cabaret in downtown Pensacola. Don’t miss the special showcase on May 27 at 5 pm featuring headliner Jade Esteban Estrada.

The American singer, actor, stand-up comedian, journalist and human rights activist is sure to make for an evening of fun and laughs. Ticket sales proceeds will be donated to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors who provide mental health services to grieving Gold Star Military families. Visit eventbrite.com for tickets and information.

Graffiti Bridge 5K May 28 This unique 5K run/walk on May 28 will Start & Finish at a classic, local landmark—the Graffiti Bridge. The race kicks off at 7:30 am in the East Hill neighborhood of Pensacola.

Iconic collector’s medals will be handed out to every race finisher. The streets will close two hours prior to the race start time to give everyone the chance to have uninterrupted access to “tag” the bridge.

Registration is currently $45 and on the week of the race, registration will increase to $50.

For complete details and to register, visit runpensacola.com.

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 47

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Special Section • May 2022

53

Pensacola State College Gears Up to Open New Truck Driver Training Facility Pensacola State College is preparing to open its new state-of-the-art Truck Driver Training facility in Santa Rosa County in efforts to help address the nationwide shortage of commercial truck drivers and critical workforce gap.

57

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Pensacola State College Gears Up

to Open New Truck Driver Training Facility

By Morgan Cole

Pensacola State College (PSC) is gearing up to open its new $7.8 million Truck Driving Training facility in Santa Rosa County this fall.

Construction is now well underway at the site of the new 13,000-square-foot commercial driver’s license training (CDL) and testing facility and driving range. The facility is located on a 15-acre parcel in the Santa Rosa Industrial Park off Jeff Ates Rd. in rural East Milton.

Construction is on track to have the new facility open by early August of this year.

“This is such a great occasion for us,” PSC President Ed Meadows said at the groundbreaking press conference. “There is a tremendous need for truck drivers, both nationally and locally.”

The training and testing facility was specifically designed in an effort to help

fill this critical workforce gap, which has continued to increase since the onset of the pandemic in early 2019.

According to a recent estimate released by the American Trucking Association (ATA), the country currently needs an additional 60,800 truck drivers. The ATA predicts that if the current trends hold, this shortage will increase to more than 160,000 by the year 2028.

“Shortages in truck drivers are a real problem and not just for Florida, but also throughout the rest of the country,” PSC Director of Workforce Education, Michael Listau said. “We have all experienced the supply chain shortages and I look at Pensacola State College as being a solution in

trying to solve the issue we are currently all living through.”

The facility is funded by a $3.8 million Triumph Gulf Coast grant, a $1.6 million U.S. Department of Commerce grant, as well as state and local funding. The PSC truck driving program also received matching funds for the project from a $250,000 GREERS Rapid Credentialing Grant, a $125,000 Florida Governor’s Job Growth Grant and $49,500 from the Santa Rosa County Board of Commissioners.

“The new facility includes everything we need to train and test students in obtaining their CDL license,” Listau said. “Once the new facility is completed this will help PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 53

to increase our training capacity to include different training options for both new and experienced drivers.

We will offer both a new driver program, as well as an expedited training program to help meet the demands of local employers.”

The Truck Driver Training facility will feature truck bays, three classrooms, a large driving range with a half-mile asphalt driving loop and a concrete driving pad. The program currently uses two state-of-the-art Virage Truck simulators, which will also be used for training at the new facility.

Students who complete the 320-hour certification course will be required to drive at least 1,000 miles as part of training.

After completing 1,000 miles, students can then apply for a Florida Class A Commercial Driver License certification.

Program graduates will become eligible for a variety of commercial driving positions from long-haul trucking and local deliveries to school bus operators. PSC also provides job placement assistance to students that successfully complete all of the required coursework and training. The total cost for Tuition and fees for the New Driver Program for Florida residents is $2,500.

Several grant and scholarship opportunities are also available to students that qualify.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the May 2020 median pay for heavy tractor-trailer truck drivers was $22.66 per54 | MAY 2022

Pensacola State College (PSC) President President Ed Meadows led the groundbreaking ceremony at the future site of the new PSC Truck Driver Training facility on September 30, 2021 in East Milton.

hour or $47,130 per year, with the top 10 percent of U.S. truck drivers earning about $70,000 or more.

Since first launching the Truck Driving Program in 2019, enrollment numbers have continued to steadily increase.

According to Listau, nearly 100 students have completed the training program to date. Listau also said that the College is currently taking cohorts of eight students every eight weeks. Once the new facility is complete, the College plans to expand the program to include additional classes with both day and evening class options.

Through an agreement with NAS Pensacola, the College’s truck driving program currently operates at Bronson Field near Blue Angel Recreation Park—just west of the PSC Warrington Campus.

In 2019, the College purchased a 53-foot, cab-and-trailer training vehicle with the $125,000 Governor’s Job Growth Grant from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.

A second trailer-truck was donated by the Lewis Bear Company. Both vehicles are currently used to train students in a variety of needed skill sets, from driving and safety techniques to cargo handling and document procedures for over-the-road preparation to obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL.) The new facility will allow PSC to continue growing this critical training program, adding more instructors and admitting more students each semester. The college also hopes to acquire two new trucks in order to provide

students with additional handson learning opportunities as they prepare for the opening of their new state-of-the-art facility in early August.

“I encourage anyone considering a career in truck driving to contact Pensacola State College and go through our training program. We offer an affordable option for people to complete training and get out on the road in a short amount of time.

Additionally, PSC has many resources to support students enrolled in the program, including job placement assistance,” Listau said.

For complete details on the PSC Truck Driver Training program, visit pensacolastate.edu/academicprograms/cvd-vc.

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Around the Region Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Military & Veteran Affairs Committee Announces Military Appreciation Picnic on Navarre Beach The Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Military and Veteran Affairs Committee will host the Annual Military Appreciation Picnic “Saluting Our Hometown Heroes” presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union, Florida Power and Light and Step One Automotive Group on May 14, from 11 am to 3 pm in the Manta Ray Parking Lot in the Navarre Beach Marine Park at 8705 Gulf Boulevard.

The Military Appreciation Picnic is cohosted by the Santa Rosa County Tourist

City of Pensacola Receives Gold Designation from SolSmart for Advancing Solar Energy Growth The City of Pensacola received a gold designation from the national SolSmart program for making it faster, easier and more affordable for homes and businesses to go solar. This designation recognizes the city for taking steps to encourage solar energy growth and removing obstacles to solar development.

To receive designation, cities and counties make changes to their local processes to reduce the time and money it takes to install a solar energy system. This includes evaluating permitting processes, as well as planning and zoning procedures.

“I’m incredibly proud to be recognized for our efforts to make solar energy more attainable in the City of Pensacola,” Mayor Grover Robinson said. “Thank you to city staff for continuing to work hard on solar initiatives and for being forward-thinking as we look to the future of solar energy in Pensacola.”

Development Office/#RelaxInNavarreBeach and the Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. It will be dedicated to honor, remember, recognize and appreciate those who have served and those now serving. All active duty and retired service members and their families are invited to enjoy a free day of food, fun, games, fellowship and live music.

In the Navarre area, these everyday heroes surround us. They are our neighbors, little league coaches, co-workers, friends and/or visitors to our community. We make it a point to express our gratitude during the month of May (and beyond) to those currently serving in the armed forces, veterans and their families,” Steve Rhodes, Chair of the Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Military and Veteran Affairs Committee said.

As a SolSmart designee, the city is helping solar companies greatly reduce the cost of installations and pass those savings on to consumers. This allows even more local homes and businesses to obtain affordable, clean and reliable electricity through solar. Actions the city has taken will help encourage solar companies to do business in the area, driving economic development and creating local jobs.

SolSmart uses objective criteria to award communities points based on the actions they take to reduce barriers to solar energy development. Communities that take sufficient action are designated either gold, silver or bronze. More than 400 cities, counties and small towns have achieved SolSmart designation since the program launched in 2016.

SolSmart is led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council and the International City/ County Management Association. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office. For more information about SolSmart designation, visit SolSmart.org.

The Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Military and Veteran Affairs Committee is still seeking sponsorships, volunteers, door prize donations and goody bag items for this wonderful event as it entertains, feeds and shows appreciation for all the military families in the Navarre area.

For information on how you can get involved or arrange a pick-up of your donation items, email chanda.ryan@navarrechamber.com.

The Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Committee Military and Veteran Affairs Committee is a group of Navarre Chamber Members who volunteer service to the military through support of the military mission and enhancement of the relationship between the community and the military.

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PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 57

Around the Region UWF College of Business and Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola Honor Ethics in Business Award recipients The University of West Florida College of Business honored 2022, 2021 and 2020 Ethics in Business award recipients at the 20th Combined Rotary Luncheon on April 21, 2022 at the Pensacola Yacht Club.

The luncheon returned to in-person for the first time since 2019, due to COVID-19.

The Ethics in Business Award recognizes individuals who exemplify the concept of “service above self” and work to build a positive sense of self-

worth within both the business community and the broader community as a whole. Criteria for the award is based on adherence to the high ethical standards of honesty, integrity and consistency in dealing with employees, contractors and customers, while positively enhancing the economic well-being of the firm’s stakeholders and providing jobs, opportunities and profits.

Each year, a “Combined Rotary of Pensacola Ethics in Business Award” is given to one individual from the small business sector (49 or fewer employees) and one individual from the large business sector (50 or more employees) to recognize those who exemplify the concept of “service above self” and who work to build a positive

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sense of worth within both the business community and the broader community as a whole.

The 2022 big business award winner was Dr. Ed Ranelli.

Ranelli is associate vice president for external affairs at UWF and professor and Dean Emeritus of UWF’s College of Business.

Ranelli has served for 30 years as a UWF professor, administrator, and leader.

In these roles, he has contributed significantly to the advancement and encouragement of thousands of students, many of whom are community and business leaders in Pensacola. Ranelli was among those who spearheaded the establishment of the Ethics in Business Award.

“I am honored to be a Rotarian and to live by the motto, ‘service above self,’” Ranelli said. “It is a privilege to be selected to be among the 40plus Ethics in Business Award recipients. These individuals have set the standard for excellence in our community.”

The 2022 small business cowinners were Rodney Rich & Kerry Anne Schultz. Schultz is a successful lawyer and the principal of her own practice, Schultz Law Group, P.L.L.C. She is very involved in the community, serving on several boards in Northwest Florida.

“I am honored and humbled to accept this award and to join past recipients who I have long admired and respected,” Schultz said. “An enormous salute to all of this year’s nominees each of whom serve above self and make incredible contributions to our community. I am

happy to give tirelessly to my employees, clients and community. It is an honor to serve with each of you.”

Rodney Rich is the owner of Rodney Rich and Co., Inc. He established the investment and consulting firm in 1976. Rich is passionate about historical preservation contributing to renovations in downtown Pensacola including the Seville Square area, Temple Beth El and Saenger Theater.

He has been active in the community, chairing and serving several organizations.

“I was taught early in life, do justly, walk humbly,” Rich said. “I am truly humbled to be honored by UWF and the Rotary clubs for doing what I love—preserving Pensacola’s rich history, promoting civic service and supporting professionals in the education of our children. This honor has been bestowed on many great Pensacolian’s who have helped make our community a better place to live, work and play.”

The following Ethics in Business Award winners were also recognized at the luncheon: 2021 Large Business: Sally Fox Small Business: Steve Moorhead 2020 Large Business: Dale Duce Small Business: Gerald Adcox For more information about the Ethics in Business Award, visit uwf.edu/cob/ethics-inbusiness-award. For more information about the UWF College of Business, visit uwf. edu/cob.

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ON THE MARKET a Real Estate Section

In This Section 62. By The Numbers: A Look at March’s Market Highlights

64.The Gulf Real Estate Market: Home Redefined, Projections and Off-market Seller Options

68. Spruce Up Your Interior Living Space This Spring

70. 7 On-Trend Kitchen Upgrades

72. Rethink Your Lawn: Use Clover for a Lush Green Eco-Friendly Enviable Yard

PENSACOLA MAGAZINE | 61

BY THE NUMBERS A Look at March's Market Highlights

Market Highlights Total sales improved 29 percent compared to February and were the best on record for the month of March.

Most sales activity occurred in the $300k to $499k price range.

25

DAYS ON MARKET

For Sale

315k

MEDIAN SALE PRICE

1400 HOMES SOLD

1150

First quarter sales were the best on record for the period.

Median sale price set yet another record, reaching $315,000 in March.

Both single-family and condo inventory rebounded slightly from February’s totals.

Pending sales rebounded from February’s totals, with 599 reported, the most on record for any month.

NEW RESIDENTIAL LISTINGS Data courtesy of the Pensacola Association of REALTORS ® 62 | MAY 2022

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THE GULF COAST REAL ESTATE MARKET: HOME REDEFINED, PROJECTIONS AND OFFMARKET SELLER OPTIONS

BY HOLLY LOVETT

If you recall that Economics 101 class you took in high school, dust off that chapter one recap, and consider again that supply and demand reigns supreme in all things—and real estate is no exception. While we have been behind in new construction (“housing starts”) for quite some time, the late 2000s post-bubble supply of bank-owned and preforeclosure homes combined with less buyer demand for a variety of reasons, including lowered consumer confidence, has kept the inventory issue at bay for a time.

As covid approached with most of us largely clueless as to what lay ahead, demand was already on the rise, lowered interest rates and a largely healthy economy combined with the extreme affordability of our area (especially as compared to the majority of the country), as well as the lure of owning a vacation or second home in paradise for those in that market were all contributing factors.

When the covid whirlwind hit, we all sat at home counting our toilet paper squares, watching our kids bouncing off the walls, shopping empty grocery store shelves, working at our kitchen table and holding class in our living rooms…

We learned how to use our kitchens again (or maybe for the first time), our backyards seemed suddenly smaller, and a vegetable garden or a few chickens became a serious consideration. Most of us began to long for more room, more space— for some a home office started to make a lot of sense, and for others a bonus room or a bit of acreage would be a great investment.

Regardless of how, covid redefined home for all of us. The experience certainly redefined what we expect

64 | MAY 2022

our homes to be—what we want them to do and look like, and where they could be, and what they should provide for our families.

Thanks largely to these experiences, our lifestyle expectations and tolerances changed… almost overnight.

Combine this paradigm shift in “home”—including where it has to be for many now ‘remote’ workers—with our Gulf Coast affordability, beaches, farmland and southern charm, and we became an overnight magnet to many in other areas as well, including those who had experienced a much stricter “shut down” response that they’d rather not repeat.

So more demand at home, more demand moving in from other areas (with cash in hand after selling their more expensive properties elsewhere), combined with our normal second home buyers, retirement buyers, military buyers, need a bigger house buyers, need a smaller house buyers, etc.

All of this at a time with very few homes to sell them as housing starts are extremely stymied now with the supply and labor shortage thanks to a COVID-19 and Hurricane Sally one-two punch… and we have a very high demand, very low supply and the homes that are going on the market are under heavy competition. Here we are now, approaching mid 2022 with demand still strong, supplies still short, and a few shifting sands.

Interest rates are bumping up. We have already seen that shave off a bit of demand as some wouldbe buyers were priced out of the market—no longer able to afford (or willing to make) the payment on the home they would want.

Rates will go up a bit more by the end of the year, likely by later this summer. While all of us who remember well the days of 18+ percent interest rates decades ago (and certainly the days of 7 to 8 percent back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, won’t bat an eye at a healthy 5 to 6 percent interest rate, it may be a bit if a shock to the 30 to 40 somethings that have never seen a rate above 4-ish percent in their entire adult lives.

Regardless, it is coming, and it is necessary to correct some of this runaway inflation that we are all experiencing.

While the anticipated interest rate increase is expected, as it always does, to adjust demand downward somewhat, it will likely have a much more significant impact on individual would-be homebuyers than on the market and homebuying demand as a whole.

The moral of the story?

First, this is not the housing bubble of 2004-2006 that was driven by reckless financing practices and “no doc” or stated income loans that had too many inexperienced homeowners overfinanced with no equity. An unfortunately easy situation to walk away from—and many did.

Homeowners today, for the most part, have equity in their homes, and many buyers today are paying cash or coming in with healthy down payments, starting their homeownership with equity in an appreciating market. And aside from low inventory, this is an otherwise healthy market—this is a supply and demand-driven market, purely economic and purely driven by what a given buyer is willing to pay for a given home— the absolute definition of market value.

Second, while no one has a crystal ball and we certainly know that unforeseen events like pandemics and hurricanes can create or exacerbate economies, if you are

waiting to buy until prices drop drastically, interest rates go back down below 4%, or demand falls off and you can shop at your leisure, all signs say that you are likely going to be waiting a long time—maybe forever. In fact, today—right now— may be your absolute best time in the foreseeable future to maximize a strong sellers’ market and still take advantage of a very attractive buyers’ financing landscape.

We understand that many wouldbe sellers worry about placing their current house on the market and not being able to find the perfect replacement home—that lifestyle property they have been dreaming of since, say, March 2020 or so. We have found off-market matches to be one alternative to ease those concerns—think of it as the child’s card game of Match—flip the cards to find two that fit each other. If we gather enough information on would-be sellers, we can potentially make those off-market matches without anyone risking being homeless. While it is not the perfect solution for every situation, it is certainly an option—and we could all use a few more of those these days.

Being creative, thinking outside the box and meeting our friends, customers and clients where they are, is what we do. If we can help you live your best life, it would be our pleasure.

Holly Lovett is the broker and owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties, serving the Florida & Alabama Gulf Coast from Pensacola, FL to Mobile, AL since 2011. mainstreetproperty.com

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SPRUCE UP YOUR INTERIOR LIVING SPACE THIS SPRING THE CHANGING OF SEASONS and arrival of warmer weather provide a perfect opportunity for many homeowners to refresh their living spaces and tackle projects on their todo lists. However, that shouldn’t mean limiting yourself to standard chores like cleaning, disinfecting and reorganizing.

Spring is also an ideal time to make functional and aesthetic updates to your home, including surfaces in oftused rooms like kitchens and bathrooms. From countertops to closets, Wilsonart, a world-class innovator of next generation engineered surfaces, manufactures and distributes high pressure laminate, quartz, solid surface, coordinated thermally fused laminate, edgebanding and other decorative, engineered surface options. Infusing style from nature, the full line of products provides nearly endless design possibilities with lasting durability and beauty to help redefine living spaces and bring ideas to life.

Get started on your home upgrade this spring with these ideas:

68 | MAY 2022

Reimagine Your Bathroom Walls Bathrooms are one of the most oft-improved spaces in many homes with style and long-term durability at the top of homeowners’ wish lists.

An on-trend option like the Water-Proof Wall Panel System from Wetwall, a Wilsonart Company, makes it easy to transform bathrooms and create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end style without disruptive demolitions. Ideal for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls and cladding, the easy-to-clean, grout-free system features tongue-and-groove panels that can be installed in as little as 2 1/2 hours and don’t require special tools. For more information, visit wetwall.com.

Enhance Your Surface Spaces As the line between residential and commercial design continues to intertwine, the High Pressure Laminate Stone Collection from Wilsonart offers surfaces to enhance your home environment and create comfortable and inviting spaces.

With 16 designs reminiscent of natural stone surfaces, the collection offers a casual look with authentic characteristics and veining details. Able to withstand the rigors of most interior environments, the “no-fuss” surfaces are low-maintenance solutions, GREENGUARD Gold Certified to meet low chemical emission limits for better indoor air quality and premium designs come with AEON Enhanced Scratch & Scruff-Resistant Performance Technology. To learn more, visit wilsonart. com/laminate-surfaces.

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of cabinetry, there is plenty of room to incorporate the warmth of wood, such as butcher-block counters or exposed beams.

GREEN, BLUE AND EARTH TONES Jewel-inspired hues had their moment, but this season’s color scheme is more about subtle shades that meld with neutrals for lighter, brighter spaces that feel airier and more spacious. Greens, in particular, pair well with an array of wood finishes, whether cabinetry, countertops or furnishings. Integrating greens, blues and other nature-inspired colors allows you to bring earthy serenity to a bustling and busy room, and this motif lends itself well to a design that creates a cohesive connection with adjacent outdoor living space.

7 ON-TREND KITCHEN UPGRADES Designers from coast to coast are cooking up fresh ideas for kitchen upgrades. This year’s hottest trends bring numerous fresh aesthetic approaches while functionality also plays a leading role in top design ideas.

If you are planning a kitchen upgrade, take inspiration from these on-trend elements spotted by the design experts at Wellborn Cabinet: UNIQUE TILE In recent years, backsplash tile has taken a more prominent role in kitchen design and has continued to grow in popularity to the point where tile is now a full-stop focal point.

From eye-catching colors and patterns to texture that brings new dimension, kitchen tile can make a big statement. In fact, bold tile is not just limited to the backsplash.

Patterned tile is an on-trend option for adding character to your flooring and dressing up commonly under-designed spaces like the window jamb with a practical material, like tile, that is easy to clean and maintain.

70 | MAY 2022

MULTIPLE APPLIANCES Function is front and center in residential kitchen design this year, and homeowners’ growing demands to go big on appliances is proof. From double ovens to extra dishwashers, homeowners are committing to more useful features. There are even some kitchens that boast two refrigerators, which may be a nod to the way grocery shopping habits shifted during the pandemic, with fewer, but larger, trips to the store.

WALK-THROUGH PANTRIES Whether you are capitalizing on the mystique of a “hidden” room or attracted to the idea of a more seamless aesthetic, a walk-through pantry can be a stunning and functional solution. With a walk-through pantry, you can add extra space to an existing pantry to create a better flow to your floor plan. Available in a variety of widths and heights, Wellborn Cabinet’s Walk-Through Pantry blends naturally into the rest of your cabinetry to create visual continuity.

Integrated magnetic door catches add stability and keep doorways securely closed.

WOOD FINISHES After years of painted cabinets and woodwork dominating kitchen design, wood grain finishes are making a comeback. The look is cozy and inviting, and with a wide span of stain options, it is equally possible to take the look ultra-modern or veer toward a more traditional style. Outside

CLEVER STORAGE SOLUTIONS The kitchen is a busy place prone to clutter, and this season you will find multiple examples of practical solutions showing up in showcase kitchens. The features that can make your kitchen chores easier and neater come in all shapes and sizes. For example, discreet knife blocks tucked into drawers, drawer dividers for maximum customization and sliders that make it easy to empty the trash and recycling bins.

MARBLE COUNTERTOPS Marble is not necessarily a new trend, but this year’s attention is on slabs of marble with eye-catching veins that make counters really pop. For a fresh take on marble, forgo the typical white, gray or black styles in favor of color. Standout gold veining or even full slabs with stunning greens, blues and reds can make a statement. If budget is an issue, or you are worried about too much of a good thing, consider using a bold slab on a smaller space, like the island, rather than outfitting the entire kitchen.

Find more on-trend ideas to upgrade your kitchen at Wellborn.com.

I

Living in East Hill!

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MAKE SURE YOUR BUSINESS IS REPRESENTED IN THE 2022 INFUSE DEI SURVEY. PARTICIPANTS WILL BE RECOGNIZED DURING OUR STATE OF INCLUSION LUNCHEON ON MAY 25TH! TAKE THE SURVEY AT INFUSECULTURE.COM .

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CRS, PMN, e-Pro | (850) 516-7809 www.pamlsmith.com | pamlsmith1@aol.com Real Estate Counselors, Inc.

RETHINK YOUR LAWN USE CLOVER FOR A LUSH GREEN, ECO-FRIENDLY ENVIABLE YARD Who has time to continuously care for that carpet-like, green grass almost everyone longs for? Nearly no one. Cultivating a lush, green lawn takes time, can be expensive and is a mainstay on weekend to-do lists spring through fall. Now that’s a serious commitment.

Traditional turf lawns require a lot of maintenance. You must mow and remove weeds often, plus the amount of water usage can be staggering. The average American family uses 320 gallons of water per day, about 30% devoted to outdoor uses, according to the EPA. More than half of that is used for watering lawns and gardens.

Nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated to account for almost one-third of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day.

It’s about time to rethink the obsession with turf grass lawns and take a page from the past; clover can help create a great-looking lawn. Several decades ago, clover was considered so essential for lawns that it was a standard component in lawn seed mixes and wasn’t considered a weed. Clover was branded a weed when agricultural chemical companies created herbicides to rid lawns of broadleaf plants. The herbicides had no effect on grass, but killed everything else, clovers included, which is how clover became identified as a weed.

72 | MAY 2022

It’s not too late to renovate your lawn and reintroduce the springy, soft, green carpet of clover back into your lawn. It’s fluffy on the feet, aids in both weed and erosion control and, when used to overseed existing lawns, fills in bare spots fast.

Today, as interest grows in more natural, eco-friendly ways to care for grass, you might consider totally replacing your lawn with an option like Miniclover, which should not be confused with invasive white Dutch clover.

“Miniclover is about one-third to half the size of white Dutch clover, producing a thick, carpet-like appearance that blends well with turf,” said Troy Hake, president and owner of Outsidepride.com, which offers a multitude of seeds, including grasses, clovers, wildflowers, herbs and more. “It’s especially attractive, cost effective, eco-friendly and can help you get that thick, lush, green lawn your neighbors will envy.”

In addition to providing weed and erosion control, the fluffy lawn alternative offers a variety of benefits: Nitrogen fixer. Miniclover takes nitrogen from the air and “fixes” it in your soil, eliminating the need to apply nitrogen plant food because it does the work for you, keeping lawns green and growing while adding natural nitrogen to the soil.

Drought tolerant. Miniclover has longer, deeper roots than turf grass, reaching down into the soil for the moisture they need, so you won’t need to water as much during

normal weather conditions. Plus, it stays green year-round and is resistant to drought and tolerates wet conditions.

Controls weeds. Its dense structure and growth habits help suppress existing weeds and the establishment of new weeds, as it grows via stolons (stems that grow horizontally along the ground).

Low to no maintenance. You can mow Miniclover – the more it’s cut, the smaller the leaf size – or simply let it grow, as it only grows 4-6 inches tall and doesn’t get unwieldy, making it an ideal lawn alternative or healthy addition to your lawn.

Thrives in sun to partial shade. Unlike some turfgrass types, Miniclover does well in partial shade that receives at least some direct sunshine daily.

Stands up to foot traffic. It has superior wear tolerance over turf grass, does well in compacted soil and fills bare spots quickly.

Makes great groundcover. Grow it alone or, because of its adaptability and ability to grow in a wide variety of conditions, combine it with other groundcover plants, like creeping phlox, ivy and thyme.

It’s time to rethink typical lawn turf and try an ecofriendly alternative to replace or renovate your lawn. For more information, visit Outsidepride.com.

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