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INTERVIEW WITH MATCHBOX TWENTY KEEP ON ROCKIN’ “TIPS” FOR THE ULTIMATE SUMMER BBQ THE BULLS ARE COMING
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Downtown Crowd | July 2017
Editor’s Letter
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contents 7 “Ultimate” Summer BBQ Tips 8 Art of No Concern 10 Matchbox Twenty Interview 12 Keep On Rockin’ 15 Back to the Sea 17 The Bulls Are Coming 18 Music and Film Review 20 Downtown Calendar
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Hana Frenette editor
A
fter what feels like weeks of monsoons, I’m more than ready for July—a month I typically associate with American flag memorabilia, gas station hot dogs, sunshine and cheap sparklers. Whether you’re taking part in your own personal Fourth of July festivities or you’re venturing out on the town for a planned event, we’ve compiled a great selection of things to do this month, rain or shine. This issue kicks off with some “tips” for throwing a great backyard BBQ. The story might not get you any brownie points with guests, but it’ll likely make you laugh as you recall the awkward or thrown-together parties of your youth. Speaking of youth, we talked to a young artist named Ryan Cooey, whose work has been spotted around town and currently adorns the walls of BelmontDeVilliers bar, chizuko. Learn more about his upcoming art show on page 8. It wouldn’t be summer without a list of good shows, and in addition to the stellar lineup from Vinyl this month, including STRFKR, who we talked with last month, we’ve also included a feature on 90s rock band Matchbox Twenty. Our own Tanner Yea spoke with drummer Paul Doucette about the beginnings of fame, scoring soundtracks, and the band’s upcoming 20th
anniversary. Read the full story on page 10. Our cover story this month features a topic you’ve all likely seen or heard about lately— Pensacola Rocks, the popular facebook group devoted to painting and hiding rocks around town in order to inspire joy. We talked to the founder of the group and delved a little deeper into the history behind the idea and it’s massive nationwide popularity. Flip over to page 12 to read the story and see some of our favorite rocks from the group. Shout out to Veronique Zayas of HatchMark Studio for the amazing hand lettered rocks gracing our cover this month, as well as artists Michelle Linn and Thy Nguyen Batton for bringing in their beautiful rocks for the cover. No summer season would be complete without a helpful guide and informational article on how to best help sea turtle hatchlings on their journey to the sea. Whether you happen upon a nest, are on the beach at night, or want to offer your volunteering services on the Gulf Island National Seashore, we’ve got you covered with a handy list of sea turtle sources on page 15. Last but not least, this issue features an interview with knowledgeable and enthusiastic derby girl, Smacker Jack Suzie, before the Pensacola Roller Gurlz annual Running of the Bulls event later this month. She offers one little bit of advice for the runners on page 17. I hope to see you all in and around downtown this month— cheers!
Publisher Malcolm Ballinger Owners Malcolm & Glenys Ballinger Executive Editor Kelly Oden Editor Hana Frenette Art Director Guy Stevens Graphic Design and Ad Coordination Carly Stone Editorial Assistant Tanner Yea Contributing Writer Haley Weaver Editorial Intern Heidi Travis Advertising Account Executives Paula Rode paula@ballingerpublishing.com Geneva Strange geneva@ballingerpublishing.com Deadline for space and information is the 15th of the month prior to publication. For advertising rates or news tips contact Phone: 433-1166 · Fax: 435-9174 DOWNTOWN CROWD is published by Ballinger Publishing. Offices located at 314 N Spring St., Ste. A, Pensacola Florida 32501 Published by Ballinger Publishing
Downtown Crowd is locally owned and operated. It is published monthly for distribution in Pensacola, Florida. All Right 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. © 2017
Cover design by Guy Stevens
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June 3 - November 26
Historical, Strange, Beautiful and Fascinatiing Pieces from the Collection of the UWF Historic Trust
850-595-5990
historicpensacola.org
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T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum 330 S. Jefferson Street
A word from Curt Morse, Executive Director of the Downtown Improvement Board As I’m sitting down to write this column, I’m reeling in this caffeine buzz, because I just left this great experience at DeLuna Coffee. They took me on a tour where I got to smell freshly roasted Hawaiian Kona Coffee and then taste some of their different blends. It got me thinking about all the exciting coffee options that we have downtown—Polonza Bistro, Fosko, Bodacious Brew and all the new options we’re going to have coming soon —Constant Coffee is coming over from Scenic Heights and they’re going to plug in a store at One Palafox Place. As we get closer and closer to one of the busiest summer seasons ever, I’m hearing about more new businesses opening here in downtown. We’ve got a new popsicle shop going in One Palafox Place, and there’s also going to be a new popsicle pushcart, called Pop Brothers. They’ll be a totally organic, all natural juice popsicle product and they’ll be mobile on the streets of downtown! It’s going to be great. We talked a lot about parking last month and I’m happy to say we’ve finally chosen our Master Mobility Planning team. Now we’re looking to host several public forums and get as much input and feedback as we can on the current downtown parking issues. If anyone has a comment or wants to offer a suggestion, please reach out to us on Facebook or email me directly because I’d love to hear from you. We are excited to start working on improving the parking experience downtown, and really want the public’s input regarding parking because this is our downtown—we want this place to be the place we all want to live, and when we make that place, others will want to be a part of it, too. As we plan for the future, it’s time to start thinking about what we want our holiday seasons to look like. It may
have been perceived as a negative that we decided not to host the trick-or-treat event on Palafox, but we think it’s a very positive thing that the Studers will now be hosting the event at Maritime Park—there’ll be wide open spaces for bounce houses and any other elements that might be planned. We only have one main street, which is Palafox Street, and that’s where everyone wants everything to be, but the park will be a much more suitable space for that particular event. On Halloween weekend, we might be able to put together much more of a fall festival type of event that we hope will tie in nicely with the event at Maritime Park. Our goal is to curate an event that offers something for both adults and kids to enjoy. We’re also starting to think about ways to encourage people to migrate from Palafox Street to Jefferson Street and several of the surrounding streets. Beginning in a week, we have $30,000 in new landscaping that will be going in around the Jefferson Street Parking Garage. The landscape will compliment the garage mural and will be the first of many future streetscape improvements downtown. In the fall, for Foo Foo Fest, we’re going to have an amazing creative team from Portugal come in and create a public art installation on Romana Street, between Jefferson and Palafox Streets, in which the street skyline will be filled with colorful umbrellas that cast amazing light onto the street below. Following installations in Portugal, France, Bahrain, and most recently in Pittsburgh, The Umbrella Sky Project is an international success and we’re very excited to have it coming to Pensacola. As always, there are many new and exciting things coming to the streets of downtown Pensacola in the coming months so stay tuned! DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 5
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Join us in celebrating 20 years of beautiful Mornings. Yes, it’s our 20th Anniversary and whether you’re a regular morning person or want to become a morning person… Blue Morning Gallery is the place to go for a wide variety of local art. Come discover why we’re 20 years and growing.
Local art • Unique selections Open 7 days a week 6 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
Tips for the “Ultimate” Summer BBQ (AKA the same one you always throw)
The summer sun is rising, and that means its time to get together with your closest friends to throw the Ultimate Summer BBQ! We’ve listed some “great” tips below to make sure your party turns out the same way as every other party you’ve been to in the past year.
By Chad Risible
Accidentally Invite ‘That Guy’
When sending out Facebook invites for your party by blindly selecting friends and acquaintances, make sure that you accidentally send an invite to That Guy. You know, the one that keeps coming up randomly behind people and giving them shoulder massages and insisting we listen to this new song he just wrote. It is far too late now to take back the invitation as he spends all day on Facebook and already saw it. Maybe he won’t be too bad this time, but he’ll probably end up wiping his hands on your good chair after he eats too many hot wings.
*Disclaimer: Chad Risible is not a real journalist, and may not be a real person.
Pick Non-Thematic Music
It’s summer and its time to unwind, so what better way to start up the party than by playing Sufjan Steven’s depressing masterpiece Carrie & Lowell? Or how about The Physics House Band’s Mercury Fountain even though you are the only one who likes experimental math rock? Don’t forget to throw in Ghost Town DJ’s My Boo to instill a false sense of hope in your partygoers that the soundtrack might have some high points, only to say you like the song ironically.
Only Talk to Three People
Nearly two dozen of your closest friends – and their associated acquaintances you feel awkward around - are set to come over and enjoy your BBQ, so make sure you only actively engage in prolonged conversation with three of them! Your best friend, your band mate and your S.O. will enjoy sitting around having a conversation between each other for hours on end! Don’t worry though, all the other partygoers have done the exact same thing – no man is an island, after all.
Get In a Heated Argument
No summer function would be complete without your positive view of a friend doing a complete 180 after a drawn out, bile-fueled drunken argument. Whether it be about politics, religion, gender or entertainment, you are sure to ruin at least one friendship because neither of you understand conflict resolution. When the argument is over, make sure to look back on your relationship and remember that they’ve always been like that, haven’t they?
Bring Drinks No One Likes
The invite says BYOB, and you intend to really stress that ‘Y.’ Whether it’s that 12-pack of Icehouse no one would willingly drink past the age of 21, or a deep-cut micro brew triple IPA with an ABV of 11%, lucky you will be nursing your private stash all night. Don’t bother planning cocktails, because people will just want to do warm shots of Grey Goose or cobble together the worst whiskey ginger you ever did see – either way, you’re sipping a beer that tastes like cold carbonated coffee, so who are you to judge?
Either Have Too Much Food or Not Enough
A great way to keep a party on its toes is making the guests wonder what the food situation will be like. Should you have a potluck where only three people bring dishes, or should you spend all day slaving over the grill only to have half the party say they just started eating vegan? Whether you go hungry or throw it all away, people will be sure to appreciate it!
Swear Off Parties for At Least a Week
You wake up the morning after the party – your favorite Steely Dan record is scratched up, someone managed to break a chair, and you find an empty beer bottle in your laundry room. As you clean up and ignore your pounding migraine, be sure to swear off having a party ever again because your friends don’t appreciate you. A week later, send out an invite for a little ‘get together’ because you have no control over your life and you never learn.
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The art of no concern By HANA FRENETTE
Ryan Cooey has always made things, whether it was simple drawings, napkin books, or paintings on found flea market art. He was never serious about the paintings or drawings he was making, but he continued to make them nonetheless. Most of his work features simple line paintings or caricatures, featuring bright colors, aliens, booze, women, tattoos, and references to local characters. The work is often tongue-in-cheek, humorously jovial and surreal. He also drills out of the back of etch-a-sketches (the popular children’s toy) and then creates a semi-permanent drawing within the screen. Although he never approached art with a serious attitude, he kept at it for years, churning out paintings and drawings regularly, without an overarching goal, theme or purpose for the pieces. “A couple of years ago I was living with some friends in San Diego and San Francisco—I was skateboarding a lot, and then I had a bunch of health problems come up,” Cooey said. Cooey tore his ACL and returned to Pensacola. He was unable to work for nine months after his surgery. Once he got back on his feet, he found himself in between jobs yet again and needed to make some money. He had an art show, which did very well and helped him recoup some cash. Lately he’s been making frequent trips to one of his favorite spots—The Azalea— where he will piece together a miniature
DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 8
book made of napkin drawings held together by straws. He’s currently on book #71. He’s given all the books away to friends except a handful. He notes that like the bar books, most of his work ends up with friends. “If I ever did any bigger stuff, any paintings or whatnot, I usually give it away, unless I’m having an art show,” he said. Ryan Cooey, Tabitha Hamilton, Lesa Touchette (Elbow Room
A recent show Cooey held was Owner) and Mkat Tanner pose with several of Cooey’s paintings. a guerilla style art show inside the Azalea. The show wasn’t Cooey also hosted a show at chizuko, publicized with special invites or an and several of his paintings still adorn email blast, but was a word of mouth the walls inside the Belmont-DeVilliers endeavor and lasted only an hour. bar—gifts from him to the owners Daisy and Jess, who’ve been supportive of Cooey and his paintings. I didn’t tell
“
the owners or anything—I just came in and put my stuff everywhere,” he said. “I even brought a little cheese plate.
”
“I didn’t tell the owners or anything—I just came in and put my stuff everywhere,” he said. “I even brought a little cheese plate.” Interested bar patrons, friends, and other artists quickly snapped up the 25 paintings and Cooey sold out before management had the chance to complain.
Aside from shows, Cooey occasionally sells single paintings and drawings but is more concerned with making things rather than making a profit. He currently works two to three days a week at the Elbow Room on Cervantes Street. He mentions how much he loves the staff and the owners, Fred and Lisa Touchette, and the fact that the workload provides ample time for painting, making bar books, and finding thrift store pieces to paint on. Cooey’s next show will take place at chizuko on July 22 and will include a lineup of local bands performing throughout the night. All of his paintings and drawings will be for sale at affordable prices. As usual, he only offers the original piece of work—no prints or remakes exist of any piece of his work.
Cooey’s Next Art Show WHERE: chizuko, 506 W. Belmont St. WHEN: July 22 TIME: 9 pm
Quayside Art Gallery 17 E. Zarragossa Street, Pensacola, Florida 850-438-2363 www.quaysidegallery.com
DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 9
Back 2 Good: An interview with Paul Doucette of Matchbox Twenty by Tanner Yea
Matchbox Twenty suddenly burst on the scene in the late 90s. their beginnings as a small post-grunge band in Florida to becoming international superstars in under a year, drummer Paul Doucette can hardly believe how fast it all happened. “It happened so quickly that we had to learn how to be a band,” Doucette said. Now, Matchbox Twenty is set to play on August 18 at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach to celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary. Doucette began drumming at age 13 in his hometown of North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. “Me and my friends wanted to start a band, and the other guys had guitars. You hear all these romantic stories about other musicians when they realized this is what they wanted to do, but mine wasn’t romantic like that” Once Doucette turned 20, he moved to Orlando, where he spent his days working at a record store. This was until he answered an ad in the paper for a drummer in 1990. It was through this ad that Doucette joined the band Tabitha’s Secret, which contained future band mates Rob Thomas and Brian Yale. Tabitha’s Secret played together for a few years, but was eventually dissolved when Doucette, Thomas and Yale left the band and signed a seven record deal with Matt Serlectic of Atlantic Records. 10 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
Left to right: Brian Yale, Rob Thomas, Paul Doucette and Kyle Cook of MatchBox Twenty The trio was introduced to guitarists Adam Gaynor and Kyle Cook, and Matchbox Twenty was formed in 1995. A year later, they released their freshman album, Yourself or Someone Like You, which has sold over 15 million copies since its release. “We just wanted to be successful enough to have another record. We went from playing bars in front of three people to selling out Madison Square Garden, all on our first record,” said Doucette. “We were surprised at how successful it was, and we still are.” Before their second album was recorded, Rob Thomas helped write and perform the now infamous song, “Smooth,” off of Carlos Santana’s 1999 comeback album Supernatural. “We weren’t really worried about what would happen to Matchbox after Rob did “Smooth” – we had already sold 12 million before that - but it did kind of obscure our first record. It was still an important step in the history of the band,” said Doucette. After recording their next two albums, Matchbox Twenty went on hiatus as Rob Thomas began to pursue a solo career and guitarist Adam Gaynor left the band. Doucette took a slight turn in his path, as he began scoring for films such as Shredderman Rules and Just Pray. He also formed his own solo musical project called The Break and Repair Method in hopes of finding his own sound separate from Matchbox Twenty’s. In 2007, the band reunited and has been performing since.
“We all have different lives outside of Matchbox, but every time we get together, it’s the exact same,” said Doucette. “The dynamic is always the same and always works. We have the same energy now as we did when we first started.” Doucette attributes a lot of the band’s success to being in the right place at the right time, but also knowing when to let fate take control. “There comes a time when you can either step up or blow it, and we stepped up. After that, it was something beyond us and out of our hands,” he said. As for the mysterious origins and meaning of the Matchbox Twenty name, Doucette originally pitched it when the group was in its early stages and trying to think up a name. It didn’t stick at first, but a random encounter cemented the name. “Rob and I were in a bar in Orlando, and we were talking about the band name, and it was between Matchbox Twenty or something else. We were sitting next to this drunk guy, and Rob turned to him and asked, ‘Which band would you rather see, the one band name or Matchbox Twenty?’ The drunk dude was like ‘Matchbox Twenty!’ so I guess he kind of decided on the name.” Matchbox Twenty will be performing at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach, Ala. on August 18, with support by Matt Nathanson. For more information on the band, visit matchboxtwenty.com. To purchase tickets and to learn more about the event, visit alwharf.com.
PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE’S PRODUCTION OF
July 21-23 27-30 Music By ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER
Based on “Old Possum’s Book Of Practical Cats” By T.S. ELIOT
First performance at The New London Theatre, London May 11,1981 presented by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Theatre Co. Limited
August 4-6
Originally presented in America by The Shubert Organization, Cameron Mackintosh, The Really Useful Company and David Geffen
Original Broadway production Directed by Trevor Nunn Associate Directed and Choreography by Gillian Lynne Designed by John Napier Orchestration by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber Directed by Roxie Alyssa Smith and Katelyn Geri Music Directed by Kathy Johansen Choreographed by Roxie Alyssa Smith
pensacolalittletheatre.com - 850.432.2042 CATS is presented through exclusive arrangement with R and H Theatricals and The Really Useful Theatre Company Limited. www.rnh.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions If I find a rock, can I keep it? Yes! If you feel a special connection to a rock and wish to keep it, it’s all yours. I only like to look for rocks, not paint and hide them, is that ok? Yes! For every person who prefers only to hunt for rocks, there’s another who prefers only to paint. I don’t use Facebook, do I have to join the group to be a part of the fun? No! If you find a rock, you’re already part of the project. You don’t have to upload photos of it or interact online at all— many people prefer to be anonymous. Where should i hide the rocks? Anywhere and everywhere! As long as you are respectful of public/and private property, you are free to place wherever your heart desires.
By hana Frenette
B
y now, you’ve certainly heard about the hidden, painted rock craze making it’s way through Pensacola—perhaps you’ve even found or created a masterpiece yourself.
The local trend started roughly nine months ago, when Susan Žampachová started a Facebook group called Pensacola Rocks. The name isn’t referring to rock music or how amazing the city of Pensacola is– but is a reference to actual small, palm-sized
painted rocks, which are hidden, found and traded throughout town. “My daughter, Mary Burris, moved from Pensacola to Vancouver, Washington,” Žampachová said. “She discovered a group there called ‘Vancouver Rocks’ and told
me all about it.” The popular Vancouver group has over 35,000 members who paint ordinary, pocket-sized rocks, only to hide them in specific locations around town and wait for someone to find the rock. Group members share pictures of the found
and newly hidden rocks in the online Facebook group forum, and give clues to where their next painted rocks will be stashed. It’s sort of a scavenger hunt with online clues and friends to offer tips or hints. Žampachová’s daughter added her to the group, and she found herself enjoying the frequent pictures of the lost and found rocks, along with the sense of community, happiness and social exchange between members.
“I told my daughter, ‘I wish we had something like that here,” Žampachová said. “’She said, Mom, you should start a group of your own—and I did!” She got on Facebook and quickly created the public group, Pensacola Rocks. Žampachová went through her entire friends list, adding everyone local to the group, which amounted to about 250 people.
called “The Kindness Rocks Project,” which was started by a woman named Megan Murphy. On thekindnessrocksproject. com, Murphy shares a testimonial and said after losing her parents at a very young age, she would often walk along the shore in Cape Cod, looking for special signs of encouragement or inspiration- perhaps a heart
Žampachová was painting rocks to hide. Then, several weeks after the group was created, a woman named Cyndi Goforth came along and offered to help create some excitement around the group. “Goforth found our group and was so excited,” Žampachová said. “She had already been involved in the Lakeland Rocks Group. We got together and she showed me how to really get it going. We painted more and more rocks, and then placed them downtown.” The group began to gain traction, and by April, WEAR featured a short clip on the new group. The group had 1,000 members at the time of the WEAR clip and is now nearing close to 26,000 members. Every day, hundreds of people continue to upload pictures of their colorful hidden or recently found rocks to the group—many painted like flowers, animals, cards, celebrities, famous pieces of artwork, sports teams, simply featuring a single word, like “love,” or “joy.” “It’s amazing how quickly it’s picked up!” Žampachová said. “I don’t have much time lately to paint, due to work and school, but I do host painting parties once a month or so.” She hasn’t found more than a few rocks, because she prefers the painting and hiding side of things. Sometimes she even
“We all play a part in the whole scheme of things,” Žampachová said. “Anyone can join.” The Facebook page explains the group as a way to spread joy and brighten people’s day throughout Escambia County. The group, billed as a community-building effort, is meant to inspire creativity in all ages and energize people to explore beautiful Pensacola. Other rock groups have popped up all across the country, and stem from a similar project that began in England several years ago, called the Kindness Rock Project. Some friends didn’t understand the group, or asked why they’d been added, but Žampachová was quick to explain the concept and to ask everyone to add their friends. The concept originated in Cape Cod, Massachusetts as part of something
shaped rock or a special piece of sea glass. She wondered if maybe she wasn’t the only one who was looking for little “signs,” along her walks. She began painting and hiding rocks, which included her email address on the back. She began receiving messages from people who were filled with joy upon finding her rock. Murphy decided to step up her mission and created a social media page for the project, and asked the public to join her. An overwhelming number of people showed interest in the project and have taken it upon themselves to spread the joy and inspiration to dozens of cities around the world— including the recent arrival in Pensacola. Meanwhile, as the local Facebook group slowly began to catch on,
paints a group of rocks, and gives them to other members to hide on their own. Many group members prefer to hunt down the painted pebbles instead of decorating one themselves, so the painting-and-hiding to finding ratio has aligned to find a happy middle ground. There are always enough rocks to go around, and more are being painted and hidden every day. “We all play a part in the whole scheme of things,” Žampachová said. “Anyone can join. They can paint, hide or hunt for them, however you choose.” Another fun element of the group is the social media side. After painting or finding a rock, many members upload a picture of the rock to the group, letting other members know if one was found and where they’re miniature masterpiece has ended up. Many members also offer hints to wear their latest pieces might be hiding. Žampachová often hosts painting parties for the group in local parks or cafes and encourages anyone who’s interested to come out, grab a rock and paintbrush, and join in on the fun. For more information on painting parties, or to find clues to where rocks are hidden, join the Pensacola Rocks Facebook group and follow the alerts.
Group Favorites
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Return to the sea by Tanner Yea
In the Pensacola area and even all along the Gulf Coast, we are lucky enough to have a huge variety of animal life, both on the land and in our seas. During the summer months, roughly 60 days. Though the eggs one animal that comes to our shores is the are often hidden in sand banks, they are liable to be hunted by predators sea turtle. – such as birds, crabs and dogs – be Every year between the months of May and September, sea turtles belly up to the capes and inlets around Pensacola and the surrounding areas to nest. What might normally be seen as just a natural event has become one of importance as more and more sea turtles become endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. What’s more, due to recent storms in the area, even more nests are coming under threat. Before Tropical Storm Cindy, the Gulf Islands National Seashore identified roughly 56 turtle nests on the beaches of the Pensacola area. After the storm passed, 36 of those nests were eroded, missing or washed away in the storm. Five out of the seven known species of sea turtle can be found in the waters of the Gulf Island National Seashore: the loggerhead and leatherback are considered vulnerable; the green turtle is considered endangered; and the hawksbill and Kemp’s ridley are considered critically endangered. These turtles are threatened by multiple sources: commercial fishing, entanglement in debris, environmental contamination, boating accidents, the loss of nesting and feeding grounds and artificial lighting. Once sea turtles lay their eggs, they return to the sea and leave the eggs to gestate by themselves over
destroyed in harsh tropical weather or even be destroyed by humans. Despite these setbacks, sea turtle nesting numbers have been increasing in the last few decades. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, sea turtle nests have been raising in number since they first began monitoring them in 1989. The most impressive number is the leatherback, which rose from roughly 30 nests in 1990 to 650 by 2014. The other species have seen similar rises, such as the green turtle jumping from around 267 nests in 1989 to roughly 28,000 nests in 2015. Most of these rises have been credited to the initiatives by both conservation groups and concerned volunteers. According to the Gulf Island National Seashore, efforts by local residents resulted in over 6,900 loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley hatchlings being released into the Gulf of Mexico from both the Gulf Islands National Seashore and Pensacola Beach in 2016. Even if you don’t have time to devote to volunteering to help protect nests while they hatch, there are countless small things you can do to help. A major way to contribute to the wellbeing of the turtles is to reduce light pollution. According to the Sea Turtle
Conservancy, hatchlings have a natural instinct that leads them towards the brightest light source – since most hatching happens in the evening, this is often in the form of moonlight reflecting off the water. Other bright lights from campsites, buildings and cars can disorient hatchlings and lead them away from the ocean, where they can die of exposure or predation. A simple thing such as turning off your lights at night during nesting season can do a world of help. Other ways to help the process include cleaning up pollution and refuse from nearby nesting areas, being vigilant while boating during nesting season, and to alert any park rangers or officials if you come across a nest that has not been found. Volunteering does even more, from erecting barricades around nests to protect them from predators to keeping a watch for indications of hatching. Sea turtles play an important role in our ecosystem, and nesting season is the perfect time to help bolster the numbers of these animals. Whether you offer up your services as a volunteer or simply stay mindful to help reduce the risks, the Pensacola area has the opportunity to help these creatures survive and thrive. For more information on sea turtle nesting, including its causes, how to help protect it, and opportunities for volunteering, visit nps.gov/guis.
4 WAYS TO BE A
SEA TURTLE HERO Lights Out Light attracts sea turtles. Keep beachfront curtains and shades drawn at night so interior lights are not visible on the beach. Turn off outside lights after dusk.
Pick Up Your Trash Properly dispose of any trash you bring to or find on the beach. Plastic bags, balloons, and other debris may be mistaken as food by sea turtles. Excess fishing line can entangle and drown turtles.
Leave No Trace Please leave only your footprints. Remove beach furniture and recreational equipment so that nesting sea turtles can traverse the beach without obstruction. Sea turtles can’t back up!
Do Not Disturb Do not disturb nests, markers, signs, or tracks. If you see a nesting turtle or hatchlings, stand still behind the turtles and observe quietly. Call 866252-9326 to report the sighting. Do not use flash photography or flashlights. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 15
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The Bulls are coming
T
he cannon blasts and hundreds of feet hit the pavement running. The young and old alike tear off as if their lives depended on it – a blur of white and red. They rush the streets of downtown Pensacola, cutting a swath down East Government Street in a heart-pounding, 2-mile race to the finish. But will they make it? The second cannon sounds—the bulls are coming. For the past six years this has been the scene at the Pensacola Roller Gurlz’ (PRG) annual Running of the Bulls event. Each year runners must test their skills against the “bulls,” portrayed by the wiffle-bat wielding Pensacola Roller Gurlz who give chase on skates and try to tag runners to coax them towards the finish line. This year marks the seventh annual Running of the Bulls, which is held during Seville Quarter’s Fiesta of San Fermin in downtown Pensacola from July 13-15. The proceeds of this family-friendly event will go to the Northwest Florida USO. As one of the event organizers and former PRG president Susan Carter, a.k.a. Smacker Jack Suzie, is no stranger to the derby scene in Pensacola and has her finger on the pulse of derby both locally and nationally. Passionate and driven,
Carter’s love for derby hasn’t dwindled one bit since her retirement from the sport in 2015. “PRG will forever remain in my heart,” Carter says. She speaks eagerly about her experiences and about the upcoming event, her easy wit and good humor on full display. Carter began her venture into roller derby in 2008 when she moved to Pensacola with her husband who was re-stationed at NAS while preparing to go into retirement. Once he retired, she started to feel there was just something missing. “Being military, you have that close knit family in the Chief’s nest with the wives and the guys and all that so I needed something to fill that void because we didn’t have that anymore,” Carter says. That’s where derby came in. Carter noticed a flier at work for an upcoming July 4th event and immediately took interest. Growing up in the 1970s in Knoxville, Tennessee, Carter was familiar with derby since childhood and knew instantly she had to do it. Attending that initial event was all it took to convince her once and for all. “I said, ‘That’s it!’ I went in full force; bought my gear; bought my skates, and the first night in I fell in love with it and stuck with it for four years,” Carter says. But derby isn’t all sunshine and rainbows.
At 41, Carter was the oldest member of the team, which came with its share of challenges. Roller derby is a full contact sport and it takes a great deal of hard work, dedication, discipline, and guts to do it. Derby girls work hard to earn the right to strap on their skates and represent their team. Injuries like strains, sprains, and broken bones all come with the territory. This doesn’t seem to dissuade Carter one bit, though. “My second year in, I tore my ACL and had to have it replaced. We’ve had broken bones. I’ve broken my pinky and girls have broken their legs or hurt their shoulders. You figure we’re going at a pretty fast pace when we go in to hit somebody and you use your shoulders or your hips to hit somebody. You use what God gave ya,” Carter says. “Sometimes I would go away from practice wondering ‘Why am I doing this? But eventually you get it. Its muscle memory and you end up doing it. You end up amazing yourself.” And that’s the thing about derby that keeps derby girls like Carter coming back time and time again. That’s the thing that ignites such passion and forms the intense bond between all derby girls – in a word it’s empowerment. “It’s a good sport for women to build self-confidence. I didn’t have the confidence that I needed until derby. I have more confidence in myself now than I did years ago. It’s a very empowering sport for women. People think it’s all staged, but it’s not. You have plays, you have offense and defense at the same time. The way we explain it is its like football on skates without the ball,” Carter says. When asked about her hopes for the future of the Running of the Bulls event, Carter says she hopes it will continue to grow. The Pensacola event sees close to 1,000 participants each year, but Carter says she would like it to rival the event in New Orleans — from which they took their cue – which sees approximately 5,000 participants each year. Not only
By Heidi Travis
would this give PRG the exposure they so deserve, but it would also help raise money for the charity selected to benefit from the event each year. “The more participation we have, the more we can give to the USO or whichever charity we choose that year and that’s the goal – to get more participation so we can get more to the charity,” Carter says. Last year, the PRG and Seville Quarter raised $2500 for the USO and they would like to build on that success this year. Carter places her confidence in Seville Quarter’s management for their long history of success with this event. “Seville Quarter puts the whole thing on. Jack [Williams] is amazing!” Carter says. The Running of the Bulls is one of several events taking place during Seville Quarter’s Festival of San Fermin from July 13-15. Families are welcome and, in fact, encouraged to attend. If you ask Carter, they’re the best part of the whole deal. “It’s a party, but its family oriented because we want families to be involved,” Carter says. ”My favorite part of the run is the kids. When we do the gauntlet at the end, they just keep coming back in. If we kept that gauntlet open for 4 hours, they would just keep coming back. They love it!” For those participating in the run on July 15, Carter has a last bit of advice to offer. “Have fun. Laugh. And, actually, the main number one thing we see is when people put their hands behind their backs to try and cover up – just don’t do that,” Carter says. “Just take it. You know its coming. Just take it.” And for those still not convinced they want to lock horns with the “bulls” but would still like to attend, fear not! You can still join the fun and run so long as you steer clear of the road and stick to the sidewalks. JULY 15, 2017 WHAT: Running of the Bulls* WHERE: Seville Quarter WHEN: 9 am *Registration for the run still possible from 7am-8:30 morning of the race. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 17
Albums: What we’re listening to this month Vince Staples Big Fish Theory
Colter wall Colter Wall
by tanner yea – Vince Staples has been a bit of an underground prodigy for quite a while. Starting as part of the Odd Future collective on a mostly feature basis, he immediately stood out to me as someone I would love to hear more from. And did I get to hear more on his newest album, Big Fish Theory. Staples is inserting the kind of new energy that hip hop needs as it once again falls into a cycle of overproduced pop stylings. Staples doesn’t really sound like other rappers – his sound is more techno and avant-garde, the closest analogies maybe being Clipping, or even Flying Lotus, to an extent. The beats are minimalist, techno-influenced and haunting, while the lyrics are cohesive and deep but not too overly ‘woke.’ Staples definitely had a vision he wanted to pursue, and got help with some hidden features by Kilo Kush, Juicy J, Damon Albarn (of Gorillaz fame), Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky and Ty Dolla $ign. On the production side, we have Flume and Justin Vernon of Bon Iver sneaking into a few songs, and their touch is obvious. The standouts I listed should not be taken as singles – every
by Hana Frenette – I love country music, but it isn’t often I’m intrigued by someone new. I typically revisit an old Townes album, or play Johnny Fritz’s latest release—maybe even a little Dwight Yoakum sneaks in there. I can’t remember the last time I heard something new that I loved immediately. From the first few drawls on Colter Wall’s self-titled release, I was impressed. His voice is deep and rumbles and slurs through the songs, accompanied by little more than an acoustic guitar or the occasional twang of a slide. From the first track through the eleventh, it’s clear Wall is a great storyteller. His lyrics meander through haunting scenes and dark subject matter, noting the small details of things without delving into the big picture too often. Many songs reference heartbreak, drugs, guns and cops— but somehow Wall’s absence of elaboration on these tried and true topics ensures the lyrics never sound cliche. The album features upbeat tracks alongside the somber ones, and Wall seamlessly blends his joy and pain
Young Mary’s
Def Jam Recordings
song on this album is interesting, dynamic and weaves the tapestry of the whole album together. It’s honestly a breezy listen and every track surprises me with its depth. Hopefully this serves as the big break that Vince Staples needs to be pushed into the mainstream, because his brand of hip hop is like a cool drink in the current desert that is ‘wavy’ hip-hop and pseudo-beefs between hip-hop’s all stars. If you like hip-hop and are looking for something new, Big Fish Theory fits that need.
STANDOUT TRACKS:
Big Fish Yeah Right 745
from one song to another. He also includes two cover songs on this record, a Townes Van Zandt song, Snake Mountain Blues, and a traditional folk song, Frauline, which fit perfectly alongside his traditional and unmodern sound. If you’re looking for twang that doesn’t feel contrived, look no further than Colter Wall.
STANDOUT TRACKS:
13 Silver Dollars You Look to Yours Codeine Dream
Movie reviews (based solely on the trailer) BY TANNER YEA
Brigsby bear
VALERIAN and the city
I have no idea what this movie is about, but I am enthralled by it. The only thing I know is that Kyle Mooney is somehow obsessed with a fake children’s show called “Brigsby Bear.” The trailer has beautiful dark cinematography and claustrophobic angles, but with odd absurdist ideas in there too. Not to mention the cast list is stacked – Kyle Mooney of course, but also Claire Danes, Mark Hamill, Greg Kinnear, Andy Samberg and even Tim Heidecker. Before I watched the trailer, I was thinking it would follow a Death to Smoochie vibe, but I am for sure getting more of a Hot Rod or Napoleon Dynamite feeling. It looks interesting at least.
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is based on the graphic novel series Valerian and Laureline, a legendary French sci-fi comic that ran for 43 years. Probably the biggest draw for this film is that Luc Besson will direct it, which matches his pedigree of films like Fifth Element, Leon: The Professional and Lucy. In typical Besson style, this movie looks like a visual feast of exotic lifeforms, beautifully designed worlds and high action. The worry I have is that some of his films lean too much into kitsch and schlock, but that is a bit of his comic-influence showing. Regardless, I love extravagant space operas so I’ll most likely be in the theatres for this one.
JULY 28
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JUly 21
Taylor Swift/ Katy Perry 1989 Vs. Witness
Jay Som Everybody Works
BY HALEY WEAVER – Taylor Swift famously removed her entire catalogue from all streaming services back in 2014, but casually and silently put it back on –coincidentally–the same day as pop rival Katy Perry’s long-awaited (?) album release. Though you’ve likely heard at least most of 1989 since its 2014 release, it seems fitting to explore which artist’s most recent release deserves your attention: Katy Perry’s Witness or Taylor Swift’s 1989. When Perry is on brand, she owns it – Chained to the Rhythm is subtly, successfully political, in a way Swift could never pull off, while still maintaining a radio-friendly sound. Even when she strays with a song like Pendulum, which sounds strikingly similar to This Is It by Kenny Loggins, it’s hard not to get a little excited by how effortlessly she stays afloat in foreign waters. Both albums were a departure for the artists – the difference is that while 1989 was unlike all of Swift’s other music, it still sounded like her. There’s something that doesn’t match up about Witness, an attempted depth put to muted EDM that misses the mark in convincing you to care. Though Perry has the ability to sing circles around Swift, she
by Carly Stone – Jay Som’s Everybody Works begins like a slow stream of consciousness bubbling to the surface. Similar to waking up from a good dream, you’re instantly in a better mood because of it. And then, almost without warning, poppy, nostalgic anthem The Bus takes over and reminds us that she’ll be “the one that sticks around.” We’re certainly glad that Melina Duterte (aka Jay Som) has decided to do just that. Why the name Jay Som you might ask? Like Donald Glover and his playful moniker Childish Gambino, Duterte used the online Wu-Tang name generator to come up with her agreeably random name. Makes sense now, right? Often compared to Carly Rae Jepsen, and rightfully so, Duterte grew up playing trumpet and planned on attending a conservatory program for jazz but decided to pursue songwriting instead. While Everybody Works may not be as slick as some of the radio hits we’ve grown accustomed to, it’s definitely reminiscent of the kind of pop music that you can never quite get out of your head (minus the artificial sweeteners some artists can’t seem to do without). In the standout
Polyvinyl/double Denim
doesn’t even attempt, which is perhaps the most frustrating thing about Witness. The deciding factor in this debate of old versus new is Swift’s storytelling ability in comparison to Perry’s. You don’t need to know the inspiration behind Out of the Woods to want to listen to this recount of an anxietyriddled love affair. The cleverness of Blank Space, the simple beauty of You Are In Love, the freedom of Shake It Off, none of these qualities are lost in the over-compensated production that plagues Witness. Every song on 1989 tells a story, strung together to create a well-defined narrative; Witness seems to just be retelling the same story with almost every track. Ultimately, Witness is the Frankenstein to 1989’s Blue Sky methamphetamine – a failed experiment.
track Baybee, Duterte seems a little annoyed by our antics, but reminds us yet again that she’s here to stay. “If I leave you alone / When you don’t feel right / I know we’ll sink for sure / I’ll play your game once more / If you don’t feel right / If you don’t feel right.”
STANDOUT TRACKS:
The Bus Song One More Time, Please (Bedhead)
BY HALEY WEAVER
Dunkirk JUly 21
Christopher Nolan returns, and it’s promising. This account of the failed Battle of Dunkirk, in which some 30,000 men had to be rescued off a French beach in 1940, features a strong cast including Tom Hardy and Cillian Murphy (both Dark Knight villains), Kenneth Branagh and Academy Award winner Mark Rylance. Nolan has a knack for making beautiful films (Dark Knight Trilogy, Inception), even when their plot is lackluster (Interstellar.) There’s less room for him to mess up here, given his notoriety for historical accuracy. I’m excited for this, partly due to my love for Nolan but partly due to the blockbuster quality that this film holds should it meet even a quarter of its expectations. The cast is exceptional, the subject matter is serious and fascinating, and it’ll be two hours of explosions – what more could you ask for in a summer film?
Girls trip JUNE 21
A Hangover for gal pals, except their main goal just seems to be finding a man rather than finding their missing friend. Four friends, including Jada Pinkett-Smith and Queen Latifah, jet off to have a weekend of fun, laughs, and most importantly sex. It’s hardly a new idea; however, with each separate trailer I watched, I found something new to laugh at, which is rare. On top of that, it just seems cute; there’s no bitterness, no secondary plot where one of the friends has to overcome jealousy of another. They are genuine friends who just want to hang out with each other without any man-stealing or backstabbing, which is so incredibly refreshing to see. If nothing else, I’m seeing Girl’s Trip for the solidarity of showing in cinema that girls can be as united in casual fun as they can in hardship. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 19
Date l i n e D o w n t o w n Vinyl Music Hall
Vinyl Music Hall hosts a variety of events, and July features original artists, events and oncein-a-lifetime entertainment. For more information and to purchase tickets for any of these events, visit vinylmusichall.com. July 1: 3TEETH July 3: Otherwise, Through Fire, Righteous Vendetta July 6: Paul Vinson July 7: STRFKR July 8: Rapture – The Ultimate Blondie Experience July 10: Born of Osiris July 14: AJ’s Bravehearts, Palafoxx, Nik Flagstar, Young Natives: DESTINY’S LIGHT- Suicide Prevention/Awareness Benefit July 18: Hirie July 21: B.O.B July 22: Eric Lindell July 26: Crown The Empire July 31: Shaman’s Harvest
Saenger Theatre
The Saenger Theatre is starting to show their Classic Movies Series in July, so come out and see some cinema from yesteryear. For more information and to purchase tickets for any of these events, visit pensacolasaenger. com July 1: Saenger Classic Movie Series Presents: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers July 8: Saenger Classic Movie Series Presents: Double Indemnity July 15: Saenger Classic Movie Series Presents: Cool Hand Luke July 22: Saenger Classic Movie Series Presents: An Affair to Remember July 29: Saenger Classic Movie Series Presents: What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?
Blue Wahoos
Pensacola’s own Blue Wahoos continue their 2017 season with a month full of exciting games in the Southern League. All the games listed are home games at Blue Wahoo Stadium. For more information and to pur20 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM
chase tickets, visit bluewahoos. com July 1-3: vs. Montgomery Biscuits July 9-12: vs. Chattanooga Lookouts July 13-17: vs. Mississippi Braves July 25-29: vs. Biloxi Shuckers
Pensacola Museum of Art Exhibits
The Pensacola Museum of Art carries a variety of touring and local exhibitions, displaying art of all types, tastes and regions. Piece by Piece: Art with LEGO Bricks by Sean Kenney: Piece by Piece, an exhibition of art with LEGO® Bricks by NYC-based artist Sean Kenney, emphasizes the nostalgic play of childhood created with childhood toys. Metaphor as Manifestation: Metaphor as Manifestation is an exhibition of works by Jasper Johns (b. 1930 )and Robert Motherwell (1915-1991), two very significant and well known artists of the post-World War II and contemporary periods.
Pensacola Beach Independence Day Fireworks
July 4 Celebrate America’s 241st birthday at Casino Beach, as we celebrate our independence and formation of our land of freedom. The fireworks start at 8:30 pm, shot over Santa Rosa Sound and just offshore from Quietwater Beach. The best viewing sports would be from the Portofino Boardwalk or Quietwater Beach. For more information, visit visitpensacolabeach.com
Sertoma’s Downtown Pensacola’s Fourth of July Celebration
For the 28th year, area Sertoma will host the largest fireworks display on the Gulf Coast over Pensacola Bay on Tuesday,
July 4th, 2017, at 9 pm. There will be activities throughout the day, from 11am until 6pm in Seville Square to include a free children’s area with inflatables, a U.S. Army simulator, rock climbing wall, “meet and greet” with characters, face painting, and much more! There will also be a variety of arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, and live entertainment on the Bayfront stage in the afternoon. Of course, the 4th of July would not be complete without a hot dog eating contest! Be sure to sign up early as the contest begins promptly at noon. Don’t miss an exciting performance from the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra at the Hunter Amphitheater in Vince Whibbs Community Maritime Park at 7pm. The festivities will culminate with the fireworks show over Pensacola Bay at 9pm synchronized with music broadcast on Cat Country 98.7.
WWE LIVE Summerslam Heatwave Tour
July 15 Come see the finest the WWE has to offer as they slam down into Pensacola Bay Center for a night of clotheslines, pile drivers and suplexes. Featuring AJ Styles, Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura, New Day, The USOs, Naomi, Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch and more! The action starts at 7:30 pm. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pensacolabaycenter.com
Bands on the Beach
Throughout July Pensacola Beach’s popular outdoor summer concert series, Bands on the Beach, features a lineup of performers sure to please every musical taste. Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Bring your lawn
Catch STRFKR at Vinyl Music Hall on July 7. chair and join us every summer for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Bands on the Beach begin at 7 pm. This month features Jonny Earthquake and The Moondogs on July 4, The Reunion Band on July 11, Hot Sauce Band on July 18 and Modern Eldorados on July 17. For more information, visit visitpensacolabeach.com.
Life’s a Beach: A Celebration of Joyce Benninks’s Art
Through July 18 Displayed at Quayside Art Gallery by her family and friends, Joyce was a Pensacola native. She attended Avebury College, Wilmore, KY, Pensacola State College, and Louisiana Tech University, Ruston LA. She had been a member of the teaching staff at Eastern Shore Art Academy and Escambia County Continuing Education Program in addition to offering private art instruction. She was a member of the Art Study Club
and a member of Quayside Art Gallery. For more information, visit quaysidegallery.com
Movies Under the Stars
Throughout July The Movies Under the Stars Series offers family friendly movies that begin at dusk every Wednesday evening during the summer at LandShark Landing at 165 Ft. Pickens Rd. Just bring your blankets and lawn chairs and we will provide the margaritas and tacos! The show starts at 8pm, and admission to the movie is free and open to the public. For more information, visit margaritavillehotel.com
2017 Pensacola Beach Air Show
July 8 This must-see event features the world-famous Blue Angels performing over Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island. Come see the Blues perform death-defying
Dateline Downtown stunts as they roar overhead, all while enjoying beautiful Casino Beach. For more information, visit blueangels.navy.mil
open serving our delicious food all day. The tasting start at 5 pm. For more information, visit orileyspub.com.
Corey Feldman at Club LA
Cats at Pensacola Little Theatre
July 27 Held at Club LA in Destin, come see actor famous child actor Corey Feldman tour for his fifth album, Angelic 2 the Core. Whether you are a fan of his countless movies or if you have a love of his music career, the show is sure to dazzle. The doors open at 7 pm, and tickets are $20 at the door. The event is 18+ only. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit coreyfeldman.net.
Blue Angel Music Blues on the Bay
July 23 & 30 The waterfront Community Maritime Park Hunter Amphitheater at Pensacola’s Community Maritime Park is home to Blues on the Bay throughout the summer. Concerts are held on Sunday nights when our Blue Wahoos baseball team is not playing a home game at the park. Concerts are family-friendly and concessions are available. Bring coolers, blankets and lawn chairs but leave glass containers and pets at home. Concerts begin at 6 pm and are free and open to the public. July’s concerts include The Mulligans on July 23 and The Astronauts on July 30. For more information, visit pensacolacommunitymaritimepark.com.
ARC Gateway Crab Cake Cook-Off
July 26 Be a part of this sell-out event held at Seville Quarter in downtown Pensacola on Wednesday, July 26. Enjoy live music, a silent auction, an art work sale, a beer and wine tasting, and all the crab cakes you can eat. Restaurants, chefs and organizations can showcase their best crab cake recipe amongst 20 teams
Summer Brewfest kicks off at O’Riley’s Irish Pub on July 18 competing for the bragging rights of the tastiest crab cakes around. Proceeds of the annual fundraiser will support The Arc Gateway, a Pensacola area nonprofit that provides services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, serving over 850 people. To register your team, sponsor or purchase tickets for the Crab Cake Cookoff, call Grier at (850) 434-2638 or visit www.arc-gateway.org.
July Slow Ride
Journey in Concert
Busdriver at The Handlebar
July 6 Journey is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on July 6th with special guests Asia as part of the 2017 CSpire Concert Series! Relive all the classics 80s stadium rock hits such as Don’t Stop Believin’, Faithfully, Any Way You Want It and Wheel in the Sky. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit alwharf.com
42nd Annual Coin & Currency Show
July 29-30 Held at the Hadji Temple, buy, sell, trade coins, currency, stamps, pocket watches, tokens, and other collectibles. Fresh home cooked food & drinks will available. Whether you are a long time grognard in coin collection, or you are looking to break into the hobby, this event is sure to please. Admission is $1, and the doors open at 9 am. For more information, visit pensacolacoinclub.com
July 14 Pensacola loves riding bicycles! Come join a few hundred likeminded riders as we take to the streets of Pensacola. We’ll spend an hour leisurely touring our beautiful downtown neighborhoods. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat and enjoy a cool beverage with us. The ride starts at Ride More Bicycles at 6 pm, and the cost to join in is free.
July 15 Legendary underground LA hiphop artist is coming to Pensacola to perform at The Handlebar. Having been in the music industry since the 90s, Busdriver’s famous sound, energy and heady raps will be supported by Zeroh and locals Precubed and Cyborganics. A must-see for any fan of hip-hop. For more information, visit pensacolahandlebar.com
Summer Brewfest 2017
July 18 Summer is the perfect time of the year for some great refreshing beers. This time we will be sampling some of the best craft beers available. Join O’Riley’s Irish Pub for our seasonal tasting event. Admission fee to the event is $20 and will have access to all the great beers on offer. You will be able to try all these great beers while supplies last during the event. The kitchen will be
Symphony, Sparks and Stars
July 21-23, July 27-30 Directed by Roxie Alyssa Smith, Katelyn Geri, and Kathy Johansen. A theatre favorite and Broadway record holder. The full on musical based on T.S. Elliott’s poems will feature the best of our local dancers and character actors. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.
July 4 Join Levin Papantonio and the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for this free outdoor concert at the Hunter Amphitheater Lawn. Guests will experience an evening of fabulous patriotic and Pops classics followed by the awesome fireworks display presented by Sertoma and synchronized music broadcast on Cat Country 98.7. A fun-filled evening for family and friends to enjoy the talents of our community and salute our great military and nation! The activities start at 6 pm.
Clark Partington Presents, A League of Their Own
Yoga at the Pensacola Museum of Art
July 20 From 5:30 pm to 9 pm, Clark Partington Attorneys at Law will host a special screening of “A League of their Own” at Blue Wahoos Stadium. It promises to be an incredible evening celebrating youth sports and the 25th anniversary of the film’s production. Mary Moore, former professional baseball player and actress in “A League of their Own” will speak and sign autographs. For more information, contact larendsen@ clarkpartington.com
Hill-Kelly Movies In the Park Series
July 21 The Hill-Kelly Movies in the Park Series Presented by Cox will return to the Community Maritime Park with free movies once each month! Bring your blankets and chairs then spread out on the lawn to watch a family-friendly movie underneath the stars. Movies begin at sunset and free event parking begins at 6 pm. Come hungry because concessions are available from local food trucks, but picnic baskets are welcome. No pets, or glass containers please. July’s movie of choice is 2016’s The Jungle Book. For more information, visit playpensacola.com
July 10 Enhance your creative focus and flow. Art and yoga have complimentary and intrinsically valuable benefits and the museum gallery provides the perfect space to awaken your imagination. Join us for Yoga @ the PMoA the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. for a 60-minute session. All levels welcome.
Sam’s Fun City Picnic in the Park
July 22 Join us for our Picnic in the Park at Sam’s Fun City & Sam’s Surf City! For $40, this deal gives you access to the entire waterpark, access to all the rides in the amusement park, a full meal (your choice of a hamburger or hotdog, bag of chips, and a medium fountain drink), and one free special attraction ticket for our NEW Emerald Coaster! For more information, visit samsfuncity.com.
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Braving the Blues: Five Tips to Survive Blue Angel Weekend BY Heidi Travis
While the Blue Angels Air show never fails to thrill, it is not for the faint of heart. First timers may be in for a few surprises aside from the Blues’ death-defying aeronautic feats. Venturing out to the crowded Pensacola Beach can be as harrowing as it is enchanting and if you want to survive, there are a few things you need to know. GET THERE EARLY
– The show may not start until 2 pm, but if you want premium parking and your choice spot to catch the show, you need to get there before 7 am. Make like a homesteader and stake your claim early with your lawn chairs and beach umbrellas because it gets pretty competitive out there. If you can’t get to the beaches early enough, there are alternatives. There are pay-to-park lots in the
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surrounding areas, though they are further from the Gulfside Pavilion. Fortunately, free trolley services are available from 7 am until 12 am. They’ll get you where you need to go and minimize your strife.
out once in a while. Take a dip to cool off in the Gulf waters, but make sure you reapply after. Remember when you’re fighting the sun, it’s a losing battle if you don’t arm yourself with some SPF 50 first.
GAS UP – The Blue Angels Air Show draws a lot
HYDRATE – Florida summers are unrelenting.
of people which means a lot of traffic. People come and go in droves and it can get pretty congested, particularly on the Pensacola Bay Bridge. Expect to sit in traffic for a long time. Best gas up before heading out to the show and, if you can, carpool.
BRING EARPLUGS – The Blue Angels Air Show is a sensory experience - the incredible, mid-air acrobatic sights; the smell of the salt in the air; the rumble, roar, and scream of the jet engines so close you can feel it in your chest…and your ears. You will most definitely want to consider taking a good pair of earplugs for this. The Blues will fly in close, fast and furious, and your ears might remember the moment for long after the show if you don’t take precautions. USE SUNSCREEN – You’re in for a full day of fun in the sun so protect yourself! Use plenty of sunscreen, wear a hat, and find a shady spot to chill
July’s heat and humidity are killer if you don’t prepare and take care. Take plenty of water or sports drinks with you. If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated, so be sure to drink before you head out and take plenty of sips throughout the day. And to keep your stomach from rumbling as much as the Blues, you may want to bring extra cash to hit up one of the many local restaurants, or if you’d rather avoid the lines, you can always bring your own snacks.
Blue Angel Summer Airshow 2017 July 8, 2017, 2 pm Location: Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach 20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Learn To Sail With Confidence And Have Fun Doing It!
All Summer sessions offer Beginner to Advanced-Ages 6-17 Children learn basic knots, boat handling, sailing fundamentals, and how to be a Pirate! They will experience sailing windsurfers, catamarans, Flying Scot, 420, Laser, and prams. Register on-line at:
Sessions are weekly from June 5- August 11th.
pensacolayachtclub.org
WHAT ARE YOU MADE OF? Teens have the power to create impact beyond themselves. What will you discover in the process? Visit MYCHAINREACTION.ORG
RYAN [16] PSC KIDS COLLEGE SUMMER CAMP
