Pensacola Opera will open its 43rd Season with Verdi’s La traviata on January 23 and 25, and close with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! on March 13 and 15 at the historic Pensacola Saenger Theatre.
Pensacola Opera proudly opens its 43rd season with Giuseppie Verdi’s La traviata on January 23 and 25 at the Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola. This beautiful production, conducted by Music Director, Cody Martin, and directed by Rebecca Herman from Austin, TX, brings Verdi’s heartbreakingly beautiful score to life with a star-studded cast, lavish sets and dazzling costumes that transport audiences to the elegant world of 19th-century Paris.
"Verdi’s La traviata opens our mainstage season, inviting audiences to discover why it remains one of the most celebrated operas of all time,” Pensacola Opera General Director Chandra McKern said. “The combination of Verdi's brilliant music being performed by incredible artists while telling a truly compelling story will thrill opera newbies and longtime fans alike. Verdi's glorious music and Violetta's moving demise make La traviata one of grand opera's most compelling experiences.”
Widely regarded as one of the greatest operas ever written, La traviata follows the love story of Violetta, one of the most beautiful and desired courtesans in all of Paris, and Alfredo, a romantic countryboy who lacks the polish and sophistication of Parisian society. When Alfredo’s father, Giorgio Germont, forbids the relationship, Violetta waits for Alfredo to return to her so they can be together again. Fighting tuberculosis, Violetta eventually succumbs to her illness and uses her final breaths to declare
her undying love for Alfredo, her lover she never got to have.
The passionate Violetta is played by Pensacola Opera favorite Bizhou Chang–last seen as Mimì in our 40th Season production of La bohème –and her lover Alfredo, portrayed by tenor Andrew Morstein, last seen on our stage in Lucia di Lammermoor in 2024. Chang is a Jan Miller Studio Artist alum and has performed with Pensacola Opera on the mainstage and in educational and community programming for over six years. Morstein was new to the company in 2024, and immediately became a crowd-favorite. He came back to perform in the cabaret crossover series, Opera After Dark, to a sold out audience.
Featuring the infamous aria Sempre Libera , La traviata tells a beautiful but heartbreaking story of love, sacrifice and societal constraints that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
The production features a talented cast of new and returning singers, including baritone Dennis Jesse as Giorgio Germont; Jan Miller Studio Artist alum Jack Chandler as the Marchese; J. Taylor Hightower, making his company debut as Dr. Grenvil; and current Jan Miller Studio Artists Christine Boddicker as Flora, Jason Edelstein as Barone Douphol, Xiaojie Ji as Gastone de Letorières and Denique Isaac as Annina.
“As you watch our show, I invite you to be swept away by the beauty of Verdi’s soaring melodies and the effervescent parties, but most importantly, to see the humanity in the woman at the center of it all: her courage, her sacrifice and her fierce, fleeting embrace of life,” Pensacola Opera Stage Director Rebecca Herman said.
Pensacola Opera’s La traviata features beautiful set designs by Peter Dean Beck (courtesy of Utah Symphony | Utah Opera), vibrant
costumes by Glenn Avery Breed at Wardrobe Witchery, wigs and makeup by Brittany Rappise at Makeup Wigstress and dynamic lighting by Connie Smith. The production is led by a talented team, including conductor Cody Martin, director Rebecca Herman, production stage manager Alayna Powell, and assistant stage manager Nadine Andrews.
Our principal cast will join an amazing group of volunteer singers known as the Pensacola Opera Chorus. Led by Cody Martin, the Opera Chorus acts as the ensemble in the production and are essential in bringing these stories to life. This season also continues our long-standing relationship with the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, who brings the music to life for us from the orchestra pit for each production and dancers from Ballet Pensacola.
La traviata promises a grand opera experience that will fill your heart, break it and fill it again with a beautiful score and a timeless story of tragedy and romance.
Performances of La traviata will be held on Friday, January 23 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, January 25 at 2 pm at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre. Pensacola Opera will close its mainstage season with one of the most influential pieces of the American musical repertoire— Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! on March 13 and 15 at the historic Saenger Theatre in downtown Pensacola.
“We close the season with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! in memory of Allan Benton," McKern said. "This timeless masterpiece brings to life a heartwarming and dramatic tale set in the sweeping plains of the Oklahoma Territory. Packed with unforgettable songs and dynamic characters, Oklahoma! is a must-see for theater lovers of all
ages, and promises a delightful and unforgettable theatrical experience,” McKern said.
With multiple whistle-worthy musical numbers, beloved characters and a vibrant set, this American feel-good classic is sure to fill seats and hearts. Oklahoma! is conducted by Principal Guest Conductor Jerome Shannon and directed by Artistic Director Corey McKern.
“As far as musicals go, it doesn’t get much more operatic than Rodgers’s vocal writing, paired with Hammerstein’s unmatched ability to weave a story through both dialogue and song," Pensacola Opera Music Director Cody Martin said. "Our cast of incredible actors is headlined by real-life couple Cadie and Jonathan Bryan as Laurey and Curly, making their debuts with us,” Pensacola Opera Music Director Cody Martin said.
Oklahoma! allows audiences to dance back in time with a heartwarming story that follows the blossoming love story between farm girl Laurey and charming cowboy Curly as they navigate rival suitors and the challenges of frontier life. With unforgettable songs like Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin, People Will Say We’re in Love the lively Kansas City and of course, Oklahoma! —this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic captures the heartwarming spirit of a community on the brink of change.
The production features a talented cast with real-life couple Jonathan Bryan and Cadie J. Bryan–both making their company debut–as Curly and Laurey. Several Jan Miller Studio Artist alum return including soprano Rachel Fitzgerald as Ado Annie Carnes, tenor Micah Perry as Will Parker and bass Ron Dukes as Jud Fry. Timothy Fitz-Gerald is making his company debut as Ali Hakin, and crowd-favorites Emily Pulley and Joe Tomko star as Aunt Eller and Andrew Carnes. Current
Ike, Greg Watson as Cord Elam, Xiaojie Ji as Fred, Jordan Svendsen as Slim, Abigail Mallory as Ellen, Christine Boddicker as Kate and Hannah Kivisalu as Vivian. Oklahoma! will truly be a celebration of the performing musical arts in our community. Our principal cast is met on stage with an amazing group of volunteer singers known as the Pensacola Opera Chorus. Led by Cody Martin, the Opera Chorus acts as the ensemble in the production and are essential in bringing these stories to life. The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra joins us in the pit, led by Jerome Shannon.
Pensacola Opera’s Oklahoma! will be brought to life with a visuallystunning set, including set designs by Stephen C. Kemp and costumes by Glenn Avery Breed at Wardrobe Witchery. The production is led by a talented creative team including lighting designer Connie Smith, production stage manager Nadine Andrews and hair and makeup designer Brittany Rappise from Makeup Wigstress.
Performances of Oklahoma! will be held Friday, March 13 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, March 15 at 2 pm.
"Our 43rd anniversary promises to be one of our most unforgettable seasons, boasting extraordinary artistry with two timeless, emotionally powerful productions," McKern said. Single tickets start at $31, and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, by phone at (850) 433-6737 or in-person at the Pensacola Opera Center located at 75 S. Tarragona St. in downtown Pensacola. Tickets can also be purchased through the Saenger Theatre Box Office. For more information on Pensacola Opera’s 43rd season productions and other upcoming events, visit pensacolaopera.com. ■
Jan Miller Studio Artists and Pensacola Opera Chorus round out the cast with Denique Isaac as Gertie, Jason Edelstein as
PLEASE CHOOSE THE SUMMATION WEEKLY FOR ALL YOUR LEGAL NOTICES
The Summation Weekly, a publication of the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association (ESRBA) produced in partnership with Ballinger Publishing, offers highly competitive insertion rates and a way to indirectly support your local bar association.
The Summation Weekly is a subscription-based community newspaper circulated to ESRBA members and made available to the general public throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. The publication satisfies Fla. Stat. 50.031, which governs the requirements for publication of legal notices. In addition to the published weekly newspaper,
The Summation Weekly website –summationweekly.com satisfies Fla. Stat. 50.0211, which requires all legal notices to be made avail able online and on the state registry – floridapublicnotices.com.
Ballinger Publishing manages the day-to-day operations of the publication. Darien Hardy is the contact person for legal notices. She can be reached at 433-1166, ext. 25 or legals@ballingerpublishing.com.
Thank you for your support. Choosing The Summation Weekly generates non-dues revenue that helps subsidize programs and services provide to members of the EscambiaSanta Rosa Bar Association.
ESRBA’s CLE Library is now digital! Go to cle.esrba.com to get your credits. Each download comes with the audio from the seminar, the PowerPoint/handouts, and the CLE Certificate of Accreditation from The Florida Bar. The audio can be downloaded in any file type that you would like including MP3, FLAC, ALAC, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, WAV, and AIFF formats. For your convenience and ease of listening, the seminars can also be streamed directly from the library.
If you are interested in presenting a CLE seminar or being recorded for a CLE accredited podcast, please email esrba@esrba.com.
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Audio Library
Cost: $15 per credit – ESRBA members, $25 per credit –nonmembers
Top Ten Probate Pitfalls
CLE Credits: 1 Elder Law and 1 Wills Trusts Estates
Ethics and Stored Data
Cellphone Forensics CLE Credits: 1.0 General
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Have a community event or announcement? You can submit information for possible publication in Community by sending an e-mail to Morgan@ballingerpublishing.com. Submissions must include the organization’s name and details about events including times, dates, locations and any costs involved. Contact information also is required. All submissions are subject to editing to comply with established standards. Items should be submitted at least
IMPACT AWARD FOR WORK WITH BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has awarded the 2025 Impact Award to Greater Pensacola SHRM, recognizing its outstanding, purpose-driven contributions to the HR profession and the broader community.
This national honor celebrates Greater Pensacola SHRM’s leadership in advancing the HR profession through innovative, inclusive, and human-centered initiatives that strengthen workforce participation. The Impact Award highlights programs that champion advocacy, collaboration, and positive transformation in the world of work.
“The SHRM Impact Award celebrates the extraordinary leadership and innovation demonstrated by our Chapters and State Councils across the nation,” said Gloria Sinclair Miller, SHRM-SCP, SHRM’s Vice President for Membership & Customer Community Experience. “These honorees are not only advancing the HR profession—they are transforming lives, strengthening communities, and setting new standards for purposedriven action. Their commitment to building
better workplaces and a more inclusive world of work exemplifies the very best of SHRM’s mission. We are proud to recognize their achievements and inspired by their vision for the future of work.”
Through a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, Greater Pensacola SHRM enhanced the Beyond School Walls program working with high school sophomores. Greater Pensacola SHRM members became Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors, guiding students through structured sessions on career exploration, resume writing, interviewing, transferable skills, and workplace expectations. Students reported that sessions were highly relevant, engaging, and confidence-building, with 100% indicating they felt better prepared for their futures.
In addition to the 2025 SHRM Impact Award, the partnership has been recognized with multiple honors, including the 2025 Chapter Excellence Award and the 2025 Community Impact Award from SHRM Florida, along with the 2024 Platinum EXCEL Award from SHRM.
CITY OF PENSACOLA MODIFIES PARADE ROUTE DURING NEW PALAFOX CONSTRUCTION PARADE ROAD CLOSURES IN DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA
The City of Pensacola has temporarily modified the downtown parade route during construction for The New Palafox project.
Instead of crossing Garden Street and traveling down South Palafox Street to Main Street, parades will now cross Garden Street and travel down South Jefferson Street to Main Street.
Road closures will be in effect in Downtown Pensacola Friday, Feb. 13; and Saturday, Feb. 14 for the annual Krewe of Lafitte Parade and the Grand Mardi Gras Parade. The float staging area and the parade route will be closed to traffic approximately three hours before each parade begins.
Residents and visitors are reminded to follow all posted signage. Parking is prohibited on the parade route. Additionally, there will be no parking on:
• Main Street between Reus and Jefferson Street
Reus Street between Main Street and Garden Street
• Garden Street between Reus and Jefferson Street
• Baylen Street between Main and Wright Street
• Portions of Tarragona and Chase Street north of Garden Street
Vehicles will be towed if found on the parade route or the additional "no parking" zones when road closures begin.
Street closures will extend to Tarragona Street, DeVilliers Street, and Main Street. These are the same closures implemented at the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. parade and the Pensacola Christmas parade.
Drivers and pedestrians are reminded to use caution in the area. Heavy parade and float traffic is expected between Wright Street and Main Street, impacting Garden Street, Palafox Street, and Spring Street.
SERVICE PARTNERS WITH FLORIDA
The Florida Veterans Support Line (FVSL) and the Santa Rosa Veterans Service Office have partnered with local, veteran-owned Smoothie King to offer veterans a chance to learn more about local resources and get answers to questions about general benefits and compensation monthly. The next event will be held on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 11 am to 1 pm. The event is held on the last Thursday of every month at the Smoothie King, 4952 Hwy. 90, in Pace.
Veterans are encouraged to stop by Smoothie King to meet with representatives, explore available resources, and gain insights into benefits and compensation programs.
About Santa Rosa Veterans Service Office
Santa Rosa County Veterans Services assists in filing Department of Veterans Affairs claims or other VA benefits, as well as answering any questions you may have regarding Florida's benefits for veterans.
PENSACOLA BEACH NAMED NO. 1
Pensacola Beach was recently named the No. 1 best beach in the United States in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, earning the top spot on the list among prominent beaches in California, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and more.
This national distinction further solidifies Pensacola Beach as a top tourist destination on a national and international scale, highlighting the area's natural beauty and overall visitor experience.
For the 38th edition of the Readers' Choice Awards, respondents from across the globe weighed in on all things travel, with 757,109 voters selecting their favorites. Pensacola Beach claimed the top spot for the best beaches in the U.S., with Condé Nast also
ESCAMBIA
COUNTY EMS PARAMEDIC NICK WATLEY HONORED AS 2025 STATE PARAMEDIC OF THE YEAR
Escambia County EMS is proud to announce that Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley has been named the 2025 Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health, selected from paramedics throughout the state nominated for the annual FDOH Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards. Watley was recognized at an awards ceremony Wednesday, Jan. 7 in Orlando, Florida.
“On behalf of my family and my team at Escambia County EMS, I’m honored and humbled to be recognized as the Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health,” Watley said. “While this is an individual recognition, this award was made possible due to the men and women I have the pleasure of serving with. I couldn’t be prouder of what this organization has accomplished and what we will continue to accomplish in 2026.”
The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional qualities in several areas including patient care, quality assurance, medical control, disaster preparedness, public education and training. The award also recognizes a paramedic who has acted above and beyond the call of duty in the EMS profession and in their community.
For more than 30 years, the Florida Department of Health Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards have recog -
nized men and women who provide lifesaving services in times of crisis. The awards pay tribute to the brave medical professionals and agencies that ensure the public’s health and safety in times of an emergency.
In addition to his statewide recognition as the 2025 Paramedic of the Year, Watley was named the April 2025 Employee of the Month by the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners for his leadership and commitment to providing the best possible service and care for patients.
Watley began his public safety career in 2006 as a firefighter and EMT in Selma, Alabama before joining Escambia County EMS as a paramedic in May 2020. He was promoted to Paramedic Supervisor in January 2022, where he manages an entire shift of ambulances and guides dozens of paramedics and EMTs, providing the necessary coordination and support that allows them to be successful.
“Paramedic Supervisor Watley is welldeserving of this honor,” EMS Chief Chris Watts said. “Through his unwavering dedication, selfless sacrifice, and a deep commitment to our community, Nick Watley exemplifies excellence in service. His compassion in patient care and willingness to go beyond what is required leave a lasting impact on every life he touches. Paramedic Supervisor Watley personifies the values of EMS and the mission of Escambia County Public Safety.”
NASTASSIA CRENSHAW-ANGLIN SELECTED AS JANUARY 2026 EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Escambia County has selected Nastassia Crenshaw-Anglin, Director’s Aide in the Human Resources Department, as the January 2026 Employee of the Month. Her selection was recognized with a proclamation during the Jan. 8 Board of County Commissioners meeting.
Crenshaw-Anglin will celebrate a milestone career anniversary with Escambia County later this year, reaching 10 years of service on Aug. 2. As the Director’s Aide, she has become the go-to person in the Human Resources Department for administrative functions, overseeing calendars for the Human Resources Director and Deputy Director, managing Accounts Payable and budgeting for the HR Department, and providing support for the four HR divisions.
With a passion for service, CrenshawAnglin is always looking for ways to go above and beyond for her colleagues. When a new Director’s Aide is hired, she facilitates their onboarding process and remains a point of contact for assistance. She schedules regular training for all HR staff to meet their professional development goals and organizes supervisor training for all county managers. One of her top priorities in the department is employee morale, and she coordinates team -
building events for the department to foster a positive work environment.
“Nastassia is the heartbeat of our department,” Human Resources Director Nikki Powell said. “The support she gives behind the scenes is what makes it possible for HR staff to do our jobs well. She is dependable, professional, and always willing to lend a helping hand. Nastassia brings so much joy to our team, and we are privileged to work with her.”
Crenshaw-Anglin’s passion for service extends beyond her job duties in the HR Department. Each year, during the Summer Youth Employment Program, she trains two interns in administrative skills to help them prepare to enter the workforce. She also recently joined Escambia County’s Mental Health Ambassador initiative, where she offers help and support to county employees.
“I am honored to receive the Employee of the Month recognition,” Crenshaw-Anglin said.
“My success is not one that I take alone. It’s a collaboration of other dedicated and driven coworkers who go above and beyond each day as well. Together our passion for our roles makes a meaningful difference for both the employees and the citizens of Escambia County.”
GREATER PENSACOLA CHAMBER SENDS LETTERS SUPPORTING MILITARY TRAINING EXPANSION
AND OPPOSING OFFSHORE DRILLING
The Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce announced today It submitted letters to multiple federal agencies advocating for expanded military training opportunities at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola and opposing offshore oil and gas drilling in Florida waters.
highlighting local events and other offerings throughout the area:
"Taking the top spot on this list, Pensacola is so much more than its beach," writes Condé Nast Traveler. "Venture beyond its perpetually summery sands and discover a thriving arts and culture scene well worth its own full itinerary. The so-called 'Festival City of the South,' Pensacola has a fully booked dance card of cultural programming to catch, including Mural Fest, the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival, and the Pensacola Foo Foo Festival, all of which happen in November and showcase a wide range of regional artistic talent. Add on a revitalized nightlife scene plus a culinary landscape where you can tell the chefs are having fun, and you have the ingredients for a formidable Readers' Choice Awards winner."
In one letter, the Chamber expressed support for locating the U.S. Coast Guard’s future Workforce Training Center at NAS Pensacola. The letter was sent to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Establishing the training center at NAS Pensacola would provide significant economic benefits to the region while further diversifying and strengthening the installation’s mission set.
A second letter was submitted to the Bureau of Ocean Management opposing the expansion of offshore oil and gas leasing in the eastern Gulf of America. Citing the long-term economic and environmental impacts of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the Chamber emphasized the risks offshore drilling poses to the region’s coastal resources, tourism-based economy, and military readiness.
“Our theme for 2026 is Advocacy in Action,” said Ildi Hosman, Chair of the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “These letters demonstrate the Chamber’s commitment to actively advocating for policies that protect our quality of life, support our military community, and strengthen our local economy.”
— Community Submission — Have a community event or announcement? You can submit information for possible publication in Community by sending an e-mail to Morgan@ ballingerpublishing.com. Submissions must include the organization’s name and details about events including times, dates, locations and any costs involved. Contact information also is required. All submissions are subject to editing to comply with established standards. Items should be submitted at least one week in advance. Deadline is noon Friday for the following publication.
OUTDOOR PURSUITS TO HOST OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 27
Bayview Community Center invites the community to an Open House Tuesday, Jan. 27, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., offering a behind-the-scenes look at its boathouse, live demonstrations, and in-person assistance with Parks and Recreation’s new registration system, CivicRec.
As an added incentive, all attendees will be entered for a chance to win free kayak rentals and other prizes.
“This Open House is a great opportunity for the community to explore what Outdoor Pursuits has to offer, meet our staff, and get comfortable with our new registration software,” Bayview and Outdoor Pursuits Coordinator Paul Pipes said. “Whether you’re brand new or a longtime participant, we’re excited to welcome everyone.”
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required to attend.
GULF WINDS CREDIT UNION OPENS 2026 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Gulf Winds is excited to announce the opening of its 2026 Scholarship Program, available to Gulf Winds members pursuing next steps in their education. The program was established in 2007 and has proudly provided students who dream big, work hard, and strive to make a difference in their communities almost $300,000 in academic support.
This year, the scholarship program will offer five (5) renewable scholarships, each valued at varying amounts of up to $10,000.
• The Gulf Winds Foundation Scholarship: Reserved for three incoming higher education students.
• The Rex Burt Trade School Foundation: Reserved for one student attending a trade school.
• The Micah Williams Memorial Scholarship: Reserved for one student continuing their education in the medical field.
“At Gulf Winds, we believe in the power of education and the commitment these students have to bettering their communities,” said Pam Hatt, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer. “With this program, we are investing in the future of our members and the region by pouring into those who are passionate about making a difference.”
The application process includes proof of enrollment, letters of recommendation, an original essay on one of the following topics, and a completed application due by midnight on March 27, 2026.
• How do you plan to use your education to address specific challenges in your community?
• If selected as a recipient of this scholarship, how will this award impact your college/trade school experience?
Gulf Winds is dedicated to helping students achieve their dreams and looks forward to reviewing this year’s recipients. About Gulf Winds:
Since 1954, Gulf Winds Credit Union has offered products and services that Move Members Forward. As a full-service financial organization, Gulf Winds provides 12 branch locations, digital banking, nationwide surcharge-free ATMs, and the support of more than 240 knowledgeable employees committed to delivering exceptional service.
Gulf Winds is also renowned for its community involvement. Membership is open to anyone wh o lives, works,worships, or attends school in North Florida, Southern Alabama, and Southern Georgia.
SANTA ROSA BOCC COMMITTEE MEETING
The Santa Rosa Board of County Commissioners held a commission committee meeting in the Administrative Complex, 6495 Caroline St. in Milton, on Tuesday, Jan. 20. The commission committee meeting began at 8:30 a.m. See the interactive agenda with backup supporting documents for the commission committee meeting. The commission committee meeting will be streamed live and archived online.
In lieu of attending future public forum portions of the meetings in-person, citizens
may submit comments in advance by completing the public input form. This is not a signup sheet for in-person public forum. To speak in-person during public forum, please sign up on the paper in the meeting room available before the meeting begins.
Santa Rosa County adheres to the American Disabilities Act and will make reasonable modifications and accommodations for access to these hearings upon request. Requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance in order to provide a reasonable accommodation.
COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNERS SECURE SENSITIVE GULF BREEZE PROPERTY FOR CONSERVATION
Santa Rosa County Commissioners, in partnership with Save Our Soundside (SOS) and Bream Fisherman Association (BFA), have secured 27.57 acres of environmentally sensitive Soundside property at 1536 Lands End Lane in Gulf Breeze for conservation.
The Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on July 10, 2025, to acquire the land using a combination of county and community funds. At the Jan. 8, 2026, meeting, the board approved the sales contract, memorandum of understanding, and grant of the conservation easement.
“This is a very unique and sensitive area,” said Chairman and District 5 Commissioner Colten Wright. “If it were to go away, you could never recreate it. I'm happy that this property will be preserved for many future generations to enjoy its natural beauty. This is a great example of a community-led project where the private and public sectors have partnered to create a legacy."
Save Our Soundside initiated preservation efforts in 2019 to protect the slough property, which features native old-growth trees, wetlands, pitcher plants, and expansive salt marsh habitat. Over nearly seven years, SOS conducted extensive evaluations documenting the land’s ecological significance while also preparing proposals, engaging state leaders, securing appraisals, raising funds, applying for grants, and collaborating with land conservation partners.
SOS team members conducted on-site field evaluations, including kayaking through the slough and surrounding grass beds, where they observed a wide range of aquatic species that highlighted the area’s ecological richness. The property owner, John Frew, recognized the environmental value of the land
PENAIR CREDIT UNION OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
PenAir Credit Union (PenAir) is excited to announce the launch of its 2026 Scholarship Program, continuing its tradition of supporting local graduating high school seniors as they pursue higher education— including technical and vocational schools. Applications open January 2026 and will be accepted online at penair.org/Scholarships through March 25, 2026.
“Every year, we see the incredible potential of our youth, and we’re honored to help them take the next step toward their dreams,” said Casey Brueske, Community Education Manager at PenAir Credit Union. “Our scholarship program is a testament to our commitment to service, respect, and Communerosity ®, empowering students to become leaders and changemakers in our communities.”
Now in its 16th year, the PenAir Scholarship Program has awarded more than $280,000 to nearly 110 students, helping to ease the financial burden of tuition and related expenses.
“Receiving the PenAir scholarship was more than financial support. It was a vote of confidence in my future. The encouragement and resources I received helped me focus on my studies and give back to my community,” said Mallory Bell-Rivera, now in her 4th year
at The University of West Florida. “I’m grateful to PenAir for believing in students like me.” Eligibility and Application Details
The PenAir Scholarship Program is open to graduating high school seniors accepted into an accredited college, university, community college, or technical school. Applicants must be PenAir members and demonstrate academic achievement, community involvement, and a commitment to personal growth.
Interested individuals can visit penair.org/ Scholarships for detailed information about eligibility requirements, application instructions, and deadlines. Scholarship award recipients will be announced in early May.
About PenAir Credit Union
Established in 1936, PenAir Credit Union has been a bold force for good, uniting community, resources, and impact. With assets surpassing $2.6 billion, PenAir is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its members from Mobile, Alabama, to Tallahassee, Florida. As a member-owned institution, PenAir prioritizes individual needs, ensuring tailored solutions for financial success. Beyond financial services, PenAir actively contributes to community growth through education, development projects, and charitable endeavors.
PATRONIS PROTECTS THE BLUE ANGELS FROM GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWNS
Congressman Patronis introduces the Special Operating Authority for Rehearsal (SOAR) Act, which protects the United States Navy Blue Angels during a federal government shutdown to ensure safety and readiness. This legislation will ensure Blue Angels airshows continue in the Pensacola region despite any Democratic shutdowns.
“This is home for the Blue Angels. Federal government shutdowns hurt our economy and undermine the men and women who serve our nation,” said Congressman Patronis. “The Blue Angels represent excellence, service, and unity, and they deserve stability
and leadership that puts our nation and those who serve it first.”
During past shutdowns, the Blue Angels were unable to perform their Homecoming Airshow due to a lack of funding for basic needs, such as fuel, aircraft maintenance, repairs, & required updates, which led to the cancellation of their Homecoming air show & halted essential training.
The Blue Angels are handpicked from the Navy and Marine Corps and serve on multiyear rotations. Continued training is critical to the safety transition and graduation of servicemembers. Disruptions delay training and pose a threat to the team’s safety.
FROM PILOT TO PROGRAM: FLORIDA BLUE
EXPANDS CANCER SUPPORT FOR MEDICARE ADVANTAGE MEMBERS
As part of its ongoing commitment to members with cancer and their families, Florida Blue, the state's leading health insurer, has launched a new care navigation program. The program guides patients throughout the cancer journey, providing a better experience that connects them to the care and support they need. A pilot study showed a successful 40% reduction in hospital and ER visits for participating patients.
and allowed SOS additional time to pursue a conservation-based outcome. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission also provided technical assistance related to existing wildlife habitats, including those that support rare and endangered species.
“Commissioner Wright’s leadership and commitment were instrumental in the successful preservation of this parcel,” SOS representatives said. “We also thank Commissioners Bobby Burkett, Kerry Smith, Ray Eddington, and Rhett Rowell for their expertise and support, along with Janice Gilley and Santa Rosa County Attorney Tom Dannheisser for their guidance throughout this process. The Bream Fisherman Association, with more than 60 years of water quality data across four local watersheds, has been an invaluable partner. We look forward to continuing this collaboration to safeguard this unique area for generations to come.”
The $1 million purchase is funded with $425,000 from the tree mitigation fund, $425,000 in tourist development dollars generated from local bed tax revenues, and $150,000 raised by the nonprofit Save Our Soundside in partnership with the BFA.
The Bream Fisherman Association will continue to play an active role through site surveys, native species documentation, strategic planning, and long-term efforts focused on habitat conservation, research, education, and recreation.
The newly protected property will serve as a vital natural buffer, preserving salt marsh habitat and supporting water quality throughout the Soundside area. This project highlights the power of collaboration between local government and community organizations to conserve irreplaceable natural resources.
Florida Blue introduced this comprehensive solution for its Medicare Advantage members in collaboration with Evolent, an independent company focused on helping people with complex conditions get the care they need. At no additional cost, patients get a dedicated care navigator and access to easy-to-use digital tools, providing them with ongoing support and guidance between doctor's visits. Early results show improved outcomes and lower health care costs, with a high patient and caregivers satisfaction score of 95%.
Care navigation can help patients manage the often overwhelming realities that come with a cancer diagnosis, and it’s particularly valuable in older adults. Cancer rates increase with age, and many older Americans also face social isolation. According to 2022 U.S. Census data, 28% of people 65 and older live alone and do not have children, making it more difficult to navigate cancer care without a built-in support system. In Florida, more than 1.1 million older adults were living alone as of 2023, according to the Florida Department of Health.
Florida Blue and Evolent have worked together since 2021 to improve cancer care for members. Adding care navigation builds
on the collaboration by creating a more tailored, higher quality experience. Patients are paired with an Evolent care navigator for personalized guidance including help coordinating appointments, managing symptoms and side effects, planning for emergencies, and connecting to community resources such as support groups.
“We’re committed to supporting our members when they’re well and through challenging times,” said Dr. Thomas Graf, chief medical officer of Florida Blue Medicare. “This innovative approach helps members and their families better manage their cancer care, with greater confidence and clarity, so they can focus on their health, loved ones, and quality of life.”
The program also uses a digital platform called Careology to facilitate collaboration between members, caregivers, and clinicians. Through Careology, patients can track symptoms, set reminders for appointments and medications, share real-time updates with their care team, and get advice outside of their office visits. By bridging the gap between clinic and home, this platform ensures members receive timely, personalized support and care, even when they're not in a clinical setting. This continuous connection helps navigators identify problems earlier and ensures members receive the care they need, when they need it.
“By giving clinicians real-time insights into a patient's experience, we can help them make better decisions and provide more effective care,” said Dr. Von Nguyen, Evolent's chief medical officer. “This improves patient outcomes and enhances the overall care experience for patients and their families.”
