FemFest – Celebration of Women on International Women’s Day!

Celebrate International Women’s Day in style at FemFest – a one-day conference in Birmingham on March 8th! Join us for an empowering day filled with inspiration, networking, and invaluable insights from a lineup of exceptional speakers and thought leaders.

Date: March 8th, 2024

Location: Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex

Tickets: Starting at $97

Headliners include:

Dr. Heavenly Kimes (Bravo TV)

Dr. Jackie Walters (Bravo TV)

Dr. Jada Moore-Ruffin

Stormy Wellington (Multi-million Dollar Life & Business Coach)

Candace Holyfield-Parker (Med-spa Guru)

Octavia Conner (Finance Expert)

Charnita Horton and more!

Featured Topics:

  1. Financial Literacy
  2. Self-Care
  3. Investing
  4. Real Estate
  5. Business Development
  6. Brand Building
  7. Live Sound Bath

Why Attend FemFest?

Gain insights from successful women in various fields. Network with like-minded individuals. Empower yourself with knowledge on finance, self-care, and business.

Be inspired by stories of resilience and achievement.

FemFest is not just a conference; it’s an experience designed to uplift, empower, and connect women from all walks of life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional, or someone passionate about personal growth, FemFest has something for everyone.

Secure your spot today and celebrate International Women’s Day in a meaningful way!

PURCHASE YOUR TICKET HERE

JUST BELIEVE: THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY SCORES BIG WITH 25 YEARS OF STAR POWER

THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY prepares to illuminate screens nationwide for its Silver Anniversary broadcast as a special one-hour program on CBS Television Network* on Saturday night, February 10, at 8 pm ET/7C.

Taped in front of a live audience on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at Pearl Concert Theater, Palms Casino Resort during Super Bowl LVIII week, this milestone event is hosted by the dynamic duo of Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold, stars of the CBS hit series “THE NEIGHBORHOOD.” Anchored in the theme of “Just Believe,” the show features performances from artists T-Pain, Rachel Platten, and Mickey Guyton, who join previously announced acts Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, and The Players Choir are in the blockbuster talent lineup. Resonating with faith, football, and the belief that every obstacle can be transformed into an opportunity for greatness, this celebration of music is also a testament to the power of collaboration between art and corporate goodwill. A diverse slate of corporate and philanthropic partners have joined the broadcast, adding to its depth and meaning with a series of uniquely sponsored segments.

Crown Royal, a brand rooted in generosity, will present the “Lifetime of Inspiration” award to former partner, NFL player, CBS Mornings Co-Host and Host of NFL Today, Nate Burleson. Crown Royal will make a meaningful donation of $25,000 from The Crown Royal Generosity Fund to an organization personally selected by Mr. Burleson. Nate, a symbol of inspiration on and off the field, will receive this prestigious honor presented by football legend Fred Taylor. Amazon Prime steps forward to present the “New Beginnings” spotlight, honoring Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin. His story of resilience and family triumph will be shared in a powerful segment, reflecting the spirit of overcoming obstacles and finding new beginnings. C.J. Stroud, a rising star from the Houston Texans, will be honored with the esteemed “Faith in Action” Award. This recognition underscores his commitment to philanthropy and community service through the C.J. Stroud Foundation, which has become a force for meaningful change and exemplifies the profound impact athletes can have in creating a better world.

P&G brands play a significant role in shaping the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY experience. Leading the way is Febreze, bringing its unique touch to the celebration with an electrifying performance by the legendary Kirk Franklin and the all-NFL Players Choir, featuring the Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ Band Drumline. In addition, Febreze proudly collaborates with the talented Howard University alumna designer, Rachel Motley, to create custom-designed cardigans that add a stylish and distinctive flair to the musical experience, ensuring that the performers are “Fresh as Febreze” while on stage. Mielle and King C. Gillette will host a beauty and grooming lounge to get all of the honorees and performers ready for their big moment.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration will introduce the inaugural “ESSENCE Glass Ceiling Breaker Award presented by Mielle.” This award, as part of ESSENCE Black Women in Sports, recognizes outstanding women of color who have shattered barriers in the NFL and will be introduced by Caroline Wanga, ESSENCE Ventures President & Chief Executive Officer. Monique Rodriguez, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mielle, will present this prestigious award to honorees Dasha Smith and Kimberly Fields from the NFL, and Sandra Douglas of the Las Vegas Raiders. These women, excelling in the field of sports, have paved the way for many others. The award presentation is a momentous highlight, continuing Mielle’s focus on inclusion and empowerment. In addition to music, the broadcast highlights partnerships, shared values, and a commitment to uplifting communities. Lexus brings its ethos of blending performance and soulful experiences, becoming a resonant voice in the celebration. Comforting Peanut Butter M&M’s will sponsor the “HBCU Spotlight,” shining a light on Markquese Bell, a Dallas Cowboys star and HBCU graduate of FAMU. Vibrant Emotional Health and former NFL player Brandon Marshall, CEO of I Am Athlete, share a powerful message on mental fitness with a call-to-action urging viewers to dial 988 if experiencing mental health challenges. The Huntsman Family Foundation, a Utah-based nonprofit, stands up for mental wellness and eradicating stigma, aligning its mission with a dedicated on-stage moment and message of hope presented by James Brown, veteran sportscaster and host of NFL Today.

In this collective moment, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration amplifies a message of compassion and support. Disney helped Atlanta Falcons player Calais Campbell and his non-profit Charles Richard Campbell Foundation to create a magical experience, gifting a deserving family with a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to Disney World. Palms Casino Resort serves as the sponsor for red-carpet arrivals, adding an extra layer of glamour to the festivities. PlayersTV and Lionsgate will also play a vital role in supporting and enhancing the evening, contributing to the tapestry of the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY. For a quarter-century, THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith, and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII-sanctioned special brings together NFL players with award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.

Tickets for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY are on sale now and available to the public via Ticketmaster.com. Additionally, to mark this special occasion, exclusive commemorative 25th Anniversary limited-edition merchandise is available via the event’s official website SuperBowlSoulful.com, or on-site at the special taping in Las Vegas, allowing attendees to take home a piece of this historic celebration. Follow us @superbowlsoulful for updates and information. THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as Director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director. *Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand on Pluto TV and CBS.com the day after the special airs.

About Super Bowl Soulful Celebration

SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), was founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration. For more information and updates, visit SuperBowlSoulful.com or follow @superbowlsoulful on social media platforms.

Finding Your Faith-Filled Start To The New Year

If you’ve decided to make the effort to rediscover your life this year, then you might find that, like many, you can find enrichment in a part of your life that you might not have been giving as much attention to lately: your faith. If you’ve been rediscovering your connection to God, you might be thinking about what you can do to deepen it, to make it a bigger part of your life, and to enjoy all of the benefits that this renewed dedication can offer. Here are a few ways to do it at the start of this new year.

 

Credit – Pixabay License

 

Participate with your church

It might sound fairly simple because, honestly, it is. A big reason that a lot of people fall out of practicing their faith is that they don’t take active steps to maintain it. Perhaps most important of all is finding your church, if you don’t already have one, and participating in mass every week. It’s your opportunity not only to make sure that you are actively hearing the Word of God but also to start connecting with a community that can bolster and support that faith, including fellowship with the leadership figures of your faith, who can be a strong source of support, in themselves.

 

Be more mindful of your media consumption

This isn’t to make the claim that secular media is, in any way bad, or that even depictions of sin are necessarily going to worsen your moral character if you see them but, many would agree, that you need to at least have balance, to ensure that you’re checking in with your spiritual side, and using the power of media to learn about your faith and beliefs in the way that only modern technology can allow. For instance, as we get into spring, you can watch the best Easter movies to remember what the spirit of the season really is. Media has helped a lot of people deepen their emotional connection with their faith, so you shouldn’t be surprised if it does the same for you, as well.

 

Live your faith in your deeds

If you want to make sure that you are doing your utmost to live out your faith, then it’s not just about focusing inward. You need to extend it outwards, as well. Not only does this mean participating in church-led events and helping those within your community, but helping those outside of it, as well, through volunteering. Look for volunteering opportunities near you, whether faith-led or not, and find the good that you can start putting into the world. This is one of the most effective ways to make sure that you’re really taking the lessons to heart and living out your faith in a way that reflects better upon the world.

 

Of course, faith isn’t just something to be talked about, it is something to be lived. Hopefully, the tips above help you give faith the space that it needs in your life so that it can continue to fulfill and enrich you.

What Does Your Car Say About Your Lifestyle?

Vehicles are no longer just machines you use for everyday commutes; what you drive says a lot about your lifestyle and personality. Beyond your status or wealth, your car speaks volumes about what you place the most value on. For instance, a driver who uses a small and frugal car like the Kia Soul may prioritize running daily errands around the city and living a simple life. Similarly, a person who uses a Toyota 4Runner may be an off-roading enthusiast. Here is what various cars could mean about your lifestyle.

  • Luxury cars

Image credit

Using a supercar gives you that performance and wow factor. The world sees luxury car owners as people who embrace extravagant lifestyles. If you want others to read meanings into your ride, you probably will want to go for a fancy car that draws attention on the streets, announcing its arrival in grand style. Owning expensive models like Lamborghini and Ferraris mostly revolves around living your best life and enjoying more refined things, so keep this in mind. It doesn’t always translate to practicality and utility, though.

  • SUVs

Sports utility vehicles (SUVs) are among the most popular vehicles in the market today. About two decades ago, people used to buy these cars primarily for off-road adventures and jungle explorations. However, trends have changed now. Modern SUVs come in various shapes, sizes, and segments, giving buyers multiple choices. These days, many opt for SUVs for an instant sense of power. SUVs provide a tall driving position, giving the driver a full view of the outside world. Additionally, their sizable shapes give them a commanding presence on the street. If you are someone who loves to carry a lot of things, you may settle on SUVs for practicality and utility, as they have extensive cargo access. There are off-road models, too. For instance, the Land Rover Defender, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Ford Bronco are ideal for those who love exploring the farthest corners of the planet. Buying new and used SUVs is easier these days, thanks to platforms like Edmunds. Once you know your budget and consider online reviews, you can find an SUV that suits your lifestyle.

  • Mini Cooper

Image credit 

If you want to establish an image of simplicity, you may want to buy a Mini Cooper. The Lilliputian hatchbacks appeal to city dwellers. However, classifying Mini owners according to demographics is often challenging since the car appeals to a broad diversity of buyers. It all has to do with a certain mindset, so there is no age limit. Many Mini owners belong to one of four categories: brand enthusiasts who cherish racing roots, simple and elegant lovers, social butterflies who want to be a part of the Mini community, and those who want to save money. Traditional trucks and SUVs are not ideal choices for people who cherish fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability. Most Mini models guarantee at least 34 miles per gallon on the highway, so feel free to consider this. 

Rival HBCUs Compete to Increase Blood Donations Ahead of 83rd Annual Magic City Classic #MCC23

The Alabama A&M University Bulldogs and Alabama State University Hornets are teaming up with the American Red Cross and kicking off their historic rivalry to see who can recruit the most blood donors during the sixth annual Magic City Classic Blood Drive, Oct. 23-24 at Alabama A&M in Huntsville, AL, and Oct. 24-25 at Alabama State in Montgomery, AL. All presenting donors will receive one free ticket to the Magic City Classic football game, and a commemorative T-shirt, while supplies last.

This epic battle takes place days before the two rival football teams clash on the gridiron for the 83rd annual Magic City Classic football game on Saturday, Oct. 28 at Legion Field in Birmingham, AL, where the blood drive winner will be announced. Bragging rights are at stake for the school with the most blood donations collected.

Last year, Alabama State earned major bragging rights after collecting nearly 185 lifesaving blood donations and winning both the Magic City Classic Blood Drive and Magic City Classic football game. This year, it’s anyone’s game.

Since its inception in 2017, the Magic City Classic Blood Drive has collected nearly 700 units of lifesaving blood for patients. (A blood drive was not held in October 2020 due to COVID restrictions on on-campus activities and events.)  Yet, the philanthropic legacies of promoting blood donation at Alabama A&M and Alabama State began years before the first Magic City Classic Blood Drive.

“HBCUs have long served as incubators of excellence, with a culture of school spirit and healthy competition that makes positive impacts in our communities,” said Dr. Yvette Miller, executive medical officer for the American Red Cross. “Blood drives like the Magic City Classic encourage a collaborative spirit that serve students in their collegiate and future professional endeavors, while also serving a patient population that depends on chronic blood transfusions today.”

Four students enrolled in the Red Cross HBCU Ambassador Leadership Program, sponsored by Delta Airlines, are also helping to add a little “magic” to the rivalry blood drives. Alexis Powell, a junior at Alabama A&M majoring in Biology (pre-med), Taniya Rainge, a senior at Alabama A&M double majoring in Biology and Computer Science, Alvin Jacobs, a junior at Alabama State majoring in Finance and Karsten Threatt, a senior linebacker on the Alabama State football team, majoring in physical education – are all helping their campuses gear up for the two-day competition by encouraging their peers, faculty, staff and local community to schedule an appointment to give blood in support of patients with sickle cell disease.

Quotes from HBCU Ambassadors at each school:

  • “I wish people knew the pain that patients with sickle cell disease have to endure every single day, and that one blood donation can help save their lives,” said Karsten Threat. “Many say they’re afraid of needles but for a patient with sickle cell who suffers with pain every day, a quick pinch is worth it.”

  • “Knowing that I can do my part to raise more awareness about the importance of blood donation is what compelled me to become a Red Cross HBCU Ambassador,” said Alexis Powell, a fifth-generation Alabama A&M student from Birmingham who spent much of her childhood visiting the campus. “I think some students are afraid to give blood because they are not familiar with the cause. I wish more people knew that one blood donation can help save up to three lives…and make someone’s life a little easier.”

To schedule an appointment to give at the Magic City Classic Blood Drive, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Alabama A&M University: 

October 23 – 24, 2023

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

4900 Meridian ST. N.

Huntsville, AL 35811

Alabama State University: 

October 24-25, 2023

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

915 Jackson ST.

Montgomery, AL 36104

PENSACOLA USHERS IN THE FALL/WINTER SEASONS WITH NEW DIRECT FLIGHT ROUTES, MAJOR MILESTONES, FRESH DINING, FESTIVALS AND MORE

While temperatures across the state might not be cooling down just yet, Pensacola, Fla. is ready to usher in the fall/winter seasons with new direct flight routes from Pensacola to New York City, momentous milestone celebrations and events, new dining options for visitors and more throughout the destination.

Getting to Pensacola
When planning a visit to the destination, getting to Pensacola has never been easier, with direct flights from major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and Nashville. Launching this November, travelers can also enjoy direct daily flights from Pensacola to LaGuardia Airport in New York City on Delta Airlines, making getting to/from the Big Apple a breeze for travelers.

For those living in neighboring states such as Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi, the destination can also be accessed via road trip in five hours or less – making a sunny beach trip all the more convenient.

Major Milestones
This fall, the Pensacola Ice Flyers are celebrating their momentous 15-year anniversary season in the destination. The Ice Flyers, part of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL), launched their inaugural season in Pensacola in 2009 and have delighted fans for nearly two decades at the Pensacola Bay Center. All season long, the Ice Flyers will surprise and delight fans as they celebrate their anniversary.

Home of the original Bushwacker, the Sandshaker Lounge has been a Pensacola Beach staple since 1973. Celebrating its 50th Anniversary, The Sandshaker is mostly lovingly known for the rich, chocolate concoction that includes Kahlua, the occasional rum topper, and for those who’d want to add something extra, fresh or frozen fruit like bananas or strawberries.

Featuring over 740 whiskeys and artfully crafted cocktails, The Old Hickory Whiskey Bar, which gets its namesake from seventh U.S. President Andrew Jackson, is celebrating 10 years of integrating local history into an entertaining experience for both locals and visitors alike this year. And just a few blocks south sits Old Hickory’s sister bar, The Kennedy. Celebrating its fifth anniversary next year, The Kennedy is known for melding together the nostalgia of the early 1960s with a modern twist and is the perfect spot to enjoy classic cocktails and small bites created with locally sourced ingredients.

Taking place this November, the Annual Frank Brown Songwriters’ Festival will once again bring nationally acclaimed songwriters and musicians from around the world to venues along Florida’s Gulf Coast from Nov. 9, 2023, to Nov. 19, 2023, with several can’t-miss engagements at the iconic Flora-Bama on Perdido Key. Next year will mark 40 years as the festival continues to provide musicians an opportunity to share their stories behind lyrics that otherwise may go unheard with music-loving fans.

This November also marks the 10-year anniversary of a Pensacola staple, the Pensacola Foo Foo Festival. A 12-day celebration of culturally creative happenings, events, and moments under one banner, this year’s events will take place from Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, to Monday, Nov. 13, 2023. Set to be one of the most memorable iterations yet, this year’s Foo Foo Fest will see leading acts such as Manchester Orchestra, Broadway star Megan Hilty, immersive fine art experiences and tours, performances by the Pensacola Opera, Pensacola Children’s Chorus and others.

Fresh Dining
New locations of beloved eateries have been popping up throughout the destination this year, continuing with Pearl & Horn, which will open a new, larger space this Fall. Offering the perfect culinary blend of land and sea nestled into the edge of Pensacola’s Historic Downtown district, the new expanded location will seat 300 guests and will feature a freshly shucked oyster and seafood bar, an outdoor dining area, and a private dining room available for special events. The menu will boast delicious additions of colorful caviar, seafood towers, elk, and bison. Guests can continue to visit the original location at The Garden at Main + Palafox until reservations for the new space open later this year.

Recently opened in late August, the Salty Pearl Raw Bar marries fresh seafood with innovative culinary techniques. With something for every kind of seafood lover, the Salty Pearl offers succulent oysters, seafood platters, and lobster rolls that are sure to keep customers returning for more.

Vinyl Music Hall’s new food venture, Proper Burger, recently opened on Palafox and offers craveable smash burgers and fries. Keeping it simple, their signature burgers are a custom-made Costello’s Butcher Shop meat blend slathered in their signature Proper sauce. Guests can get a single or double patty, with the choice of fries, which are made using beef tallow.

Fall Festivals
This November, there’s no better destination to vacation artfully than Pensacola. Featuring a wealth of fall festival programming, Pensacola invites visitors to experience it all with high-caliber arts and culture festivals such as the 51st Annual Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival (Nov. 3-5, 2023). The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival is one of the highest-regarded, most popular arts festivals in the U.S. The three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen, and other artists.

The Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show will take place Nov. 3, 2023, to Nov. 4, 2023, with the theme celebrating “50 Years of Women in Naval Aviation.” One of Pensacola’s largest and most coveted events, visitors can enjoy a lineup of aerobatic performances alongside the Blue Angels at the free-to-the-public events, with paid seating options also available for purchase. This year, the Budweiser Clydesdales will make special appearances in Pensacola at the Blue Wahoos Stadium on Nov. 1, 2023, and at the Homecoming Air Shows over the weekend at NAS Pensacola. Fans of all ages are invited to bask in the beauty of the ambassadors of the iconic Budweiser brand.

Taking place Nov. 12, 2023, Pensacola Eggfest will return to Blue Wahoos Stadium to showcase BBQ teams and backyard cooks from all over the U.S. who share a love for cooking and the joy of giving back to their communities.

Late November brings the 56th Annual Snowball Derby, a 300-lap model stock car race held annually at Pensacola’s Five Flags Speedway. The event attracts some of the bigger names in short-track racing, including top series NASCAR drivers such as Kyle Busch, Steve Wallace, Bobby Gill, Chase Elliot, and others.

Rejoice in the Holiday Season
With miles of sugar-white sands as white as snow and rolling emerald waves, the holidays are wrapped in even more cheer each winter as the streets – and beaches – come alive for the season. This year, swap the snow for the sand for this year’s holiday celebrations.

All winter long, Pensacola offers ample experiences to choose from, like the annual First City Lighting Festival in mid-November that illuminates the walkable downtown square with 500,000 lights. The stunning spectacle is free to the public and creates a scene straight out of a storybook. Beginning Nov. 16, 2023, the local favorite Winterfest brings “snow” to Plaza Wonderland during a magical festival complete with holiday music, live performances, holiday treats and so much more. After the Thanksgiving holiday, visitors can venture to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk to experience the annual Christmas tree lighting.

Beginning in November, visitors are invited to be on the lookout for the Holiday Cube in Downtown Pensacola. The perfect backdrop for a memorable photo op, the cube features different destination scenes inspired by the holiday season. Don’t forget to hashtag #ExperiencePcola!

And for those looking for a festive boozy beverage, don’t miss Nightmare on Palafox. The Halloween cocktail pop-up takes over The Old Hickory Whiskey Bar and The Kennedy each October with Halloween-themed cocktails, collectible decor, and more. Nightmare on Palafox is a must-see experience for visitors ages 21 years or older. Following Thanksgiving, the bars will transition into a Christmas-themed pop-up that will have guests returning for more festive fun.

Leading into December, annual immersive experiences also return to Pensacola like the Polar Express Tour where tap-dancing servers lead visitors through a trolley ride of the classic Christmas tale. In addition, The Cajun Christmas Experience is a great choice for those who like a little history with their Christmas cookies. During this open-air trolley ride, a guide shares stories of how they celebrate Christmas in the bayou as guests travel to Pensacola’s Historic Village.

On Dec. 2, 2023, the Lighted Boat Parade will illuminate the Santa Rosa Sound as guests watch from the shoreline and Pensacola Beach Boardwalk starting at 6:30 p.m. Then, on Dec. 3, 2023, visitors can venture out to Pensacola Beach to witness the Surfing Santa Beach Christmas Parade.

On Dec. 9, 2023, don’t miss a trip to the Flora-Bama to experience the Annual Santa Drop, where Santa Claus will skydive onto the snowy-white sandy beach on Perdido Key. Visitors are encouraged to keep their eyes on the skies as Santa Claus prepares to make his magical entrance at 12:30 p.m. in this free-to-the-public event.

For more information about Visit Pensacola and upcoming happenings around the city this season and for 2024 milestones, email pr@visitpensacola.com.

About Visit Pensacola
Visit Pensacola is the destination organization for Escambia County, which includes Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, and Perdido Key. With over 460 years of rich history and nearly 40 miles of sugar-white sand beaches bordered by the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, visitors from all over the world are lured to our pristine shores every year. Visit Pensacola supports the community vision of tourism by serving as the central body responsible for building tourism as an economic engine for our community through leadership, connection, collaboration, and communication.

The Most Common Mental Health Disorders

1 in 8 people are believed to be currently living with a mental health disorder. While there are many different forms of mental health disorders, some are much more common than others. Below are some of the most common forms of mental health disorders, how to spot the symptoms and how to treat them.

Featured Photo from Worth

Generalised anxiety disorder

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is possibly the most common mental health disorder. It is a form of anxiety that is affected by lots of different triggers as opposed to just one thing. 

People with GAD tend to worry a lot, and these worries can end up becoming draining and debilitating. It’s possible that you have GAD if:

  • You get anxious about many different tasks and situations and feel constantly on edge
  • Anxious thoughts are keeping you up at night and distracting you from tasks during the day
  • Your worrying is having a negative impact on relationships, work or school

GAD symptoms can range in severity from mild persistent worrying to full-blown panic attacks. In all cases, it’s important to do something about it in order to stop it getting worse. It’s worth looking into professional treatment for anxiety if symptoms are severe. If symptoms are mild, you may be able to explore your own forms of anxiety relief such as breathing exercises, listening to music or taking herbal remedies. Do not turn to alcohol or drugs in order to treat GAD.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

PTSD is another type of anxiety. It is triggered by a traumatic event which could range from childbirth to being a victim of a violent crime. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people who experience a traumatic event develop PTSD. 

Some of the symptoms of PTSD include:

  • Constant nightmares and flashbacks of the traumatic event that keep you up at night and distract you during the day
  • A fear of certain situations or places that is detrimental to everyday life (such as not wanting to get into a car after a road accident)
  • Feelings of isolation or guilt that cause you to become morose and irritable

There are many treatments for PTSD that you can explore. Some people are prescribed antidepressants, while therapy is recommended for others. PTSD is often at its worst when the event is still fresh in one’s mind, but will usually gradually fade over time. However, for some people it can get worse over time – this is when you know that you need to get professional support. Solutions like support groups can be very beneficial. 

Depression

Depression is not just sadness. It is a sense of resentment and hopelessness that lasts weeks or months. Depression is often triggered by certain events, however, those who have a history of it or family with depression may be prone to more random episodes. 

You may have depression if:

  • You are losing interest in things that once brought you joy and do not feel hopeful about anything
  • You feel constantly tired and have no urge to look after yourself
  • You have lost your appetite and your sex drive
  • You waste away the day sleeping or find it difficult to sleep at all due to depressed thoughts

Like other mental illnesses, depression can vary in severity. Some people just feel constantly dispirited, while others can feel there is no point in living at all – which can lead to suicidal thoughts. While you should seek treatment in all cases, it’s particularly important to reach out if you are thinking of harming yourself. There are many ways to overcome depression including lifestyle changes (such as developing a strict routine and exercising), antidepressants, therapy and socialising with people whose company you genuinely enjoy.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects many people and involves obsessive thoughts and behaviours that end up negatively affecting everyday life. Unlike GAD, people with OCD often carry out specific rituals that seem excessive or nonsensical to other people. This could include routinely cleaning things that are already clean, checking that a door is locked multiple times every night or avoiding stepping on cracks in the pavement.

Not all obsessive behaviours are a problem. However, OCD is worth treating if:

  • You find yourself missing appointments or are late to work/school due to lengthy OCD rituals
  • Your relationships become strained because of your obsessive thoughts and behaviours
  • Your physical health is being affected (for example, you’ve developed dermatitis from constantly cleaning your hands)

Therapy is the best way to treat OCD. Using professionally recommended techniques you can help to overcome obsessive thoughts and behaviours. 

How To Find Your Ideal Type of Music

Music is something that many people find to be an incredibly important part of their lives. It’s something that makes them happy (even boosting their mood when they’re feeling down), it can help relax them, and it’s even something that can help with creativity or exercise. It’s motivating and, above all, it’s fun. 

Yet there are so many different styles of music in the world that it can be hard to work out what’s going to make you happiest and what’s going to be the most fun. Although it’s fine to like lots of different styles of music (and many people do), if you can work out what your favorite is – the ideal style for you – then you’ll always know precisely what to listen to when you need a boost. With that in mind, read on to find out more about how to find your ideal type of music. 

Photo by cottonbro studio

Think About Yourself 

One way to find your ideal type of music is to think about yourself and engage in some self-reflection. When you think about your particular personality, your emotions, and what you just like in general, you might be able to narrow down your music choices and listen to the things that really speak to you and mean a lot, rather than things that don’t do a lot to or for you, even if they’re pleasant enough to hear. Perhaps you’re an extroverted persona who’s energetic and loves dancing. In that case, you might like a different style of music compared with someone who is more introverted and likes to listen to music rather than move to it. 

When you understand more about how music makes you feel, and you know more about yourself, you’ll be able to match these two things up so that the music you listen to helps to give you the peace, happiness, and solace you’re looking for. 

Try Different Genres

Just because you’ve always listened to one particular type of music, that doesn’t mean it’s the one that’s going to be best for you. It can almost become a habit when you turn on the radio or download a song to ensure it’s in the genre that everything else in your collection is in.  

But what if you changed that? What if you decided that you would try an entirely different genre instead? You could search for the best music torrenting sites and find all kinds of new styles of music there with easy access. Pick one to begin with that you’ve never listened to before, and see what you can find. Not only will this be fun, but it will teach you a lot about music in general too. Of course, you might find that your old favourite genre is actually best, but equally, you might find something you like better that you would never have tried before if you didn’t specifically go exploring. 

Learn About Music History 

Understanding the origins of certain types of music and how that style has changed and evolved over the years can be fascinating, and it’s a great way to find new genres that might appeal to you. You can research the genres that you listen to most and then start to think about other types of music – you might even find they’re all linked in some way to help you determine what to look into next. Gaining this knowledge won’t just give you more appreciation for the music itself, but it will give you a good amount of insight into the emotions and themes you’ll find in the music too, and that can really mean a lot. 

Take classical music, for example. That has a long history that dates back many centuries, and there are some massively influential composers involved, like Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach, for example. Or what about jazz? Jazz has roots in African American history, and again, it goes back a long way, giving you a chance to understand more about all kinds of history from around the world and in various time periods. 

Go To Live Performances 

There’s something really special about live performances that can elevate any piece of music into something wonderful. That’s why it’s a good idea to go to as many concerts, musicals, and other events as you can. Not only will you hear the music, but you’ll see it performed, and that can give you a lot of information about how the piece has been created, and if the performer is putting energy and emotion into the song, it’s even better, and will stay with you for a long time. 

Try to see live events that encompass lots of genres, and go to small local gigs as well as big arena-based ones. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the music, connect with the rest of the audience, and you might find a new style of music to love.

Getting Serious About Your Daily Workout

It may not take long before you want to elevate your daily workout for strength, endurance, and satisfaction. Taking it to another level isn’t as easy as just working harder. Other factors, such as finding the right gear and even changing your diet, come into play. Here are some tips.

CC0 Licensed Image Courtesy of Pexels

Learn to Warm Up Properly

One of the most overlooked parts of exercise by beginners is skipping the warm-up or not doing it right. And this is the most common cause of sprains and other injuries. A good warm-up should last for around 10 minutes and includes jogging on the spot, stretches, and gentle exercise to get the blood flowing. Professionals at gyms like Fitness 19 can show you how to do this correctly and will always welcome the chance to educate you about warming up properly.

Invest in Good Quality Gear

If you don’t use good quality gear such as trainers, sportswear, and accessories, you risk injury. On the lower end, you will just end up paying more when you have to constantly replace the cheap items that wear out quickly. You should always invest in breathable materials for tops, bottoms, and trainers. And buy the best you can afford. You should always feel light and comfortable but also protected. It also helps to buy multiple items to help with laundry.

Use Music in Your Daily Workout

It is very common for people who exercise a lot to listen to music when doing it. Music can help set the tempo for your workout. Meaning you can work to a beat and get good results at the same time. But having your own playlist also means you get to enjoy the music you really like at the same time as exercising. This can help lower your anxiety about exercises and set your mind in the right mood. It helps to invest in quality earphones that won’t fall off when moving.

Take Your Diet Seriously

You may not realize your diet needs to change dramatically to get the best out of working out. What you eat can help or hinder your performance in the gym, and staying away from carbs is a mistake some people make. Carbs give you energy and provide it in short bursts for improved athleticism. Of course, you also need to eat more protein from various meats and vegetables to aid in performance, but mainly for muscle regeneration. And avoid “energy” drinks at all costs.

Supplement Your Intake

Even when you eat right, you may not get all you need for the best workout. Vitamin and mineral supplements are excellent for topping up anything you may lack and can boost your workout in the right combinations. Vitamin B compounds, zinc, and magnesium are excellent for overall health and performance. But of course, these cannot make up for a poor diet. And try to limit vitamin drinks and foods that come with extra sugars, caffeine, and other harmful substances. 

Summary

Your daily workout can become much more effective with some small changes. You must learn to warm up correctly, work to your favorite music, and boost vitamin intake with supplements.

Tips for Hosting Guests At Your Home

As soon as you move into your own home you will start hosting guests. Hosting is great fun, it gives you a chance to show off the place that you live as well as socialize and enjoy spending time with your loved ones. There are so many different ways to host a guest, you can have them over for a movie night, a games night, to try out new recipes (if you want to try something new here is a quiche recipe anyone can make or so simple catch-up and hear how they have been.

Photo by fauxels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/group-of-people-making-toast-3184183/ 

When hosting guests at your home, there are plenty of things to think about – making sure your house is tidy, ensuring it smells nice, having plenty of drinks available, and so on. To help you with the next time you host, here are some of our top tips. 

Give yourself plenty of time to tidy 

Everyone is conscious of how their house looks, especially when they have guests over. When you know you are going to be hosting someone, give yourself plenty of time to spring clean and tidy. Depending on what you are planning, the last thing you want to do is be stressed and have to urgently clean, tidy as well as cook. 

Your house smell says a lot 

Just like the shoes you wear when you meet someone, the smell of your house says a lot about you. On top of giving yourself plenty of time to tidy, make a conscious effort to remove any bad odors in your home. Room sprays are a great way to add a luxurious smell to your home and so to are diffusers and candles. Depending on your budget, you can buy affordable ones as well as more expensive ones. 

Have plenty of drinks available 

You don’t want your guests to be thirsty when you are hosting them. A day or two before they arrive, do an online order and select plenty of drink options that they can enjoy when round. Ensure you have alcoholic drinks as well as non-alcoholic drinks available in case someone isn’t drinking that day. If you have the time, mocktails are a great way to treat guests as well as impress them. With a quick Google, you’ll find a whole plethora of recipes to try out – some simple, some more complex. Instagram is a great place to investigate. 

Put your guests’ needs first 

Remember when hosting, your guests come first. Before they arrive, have a conversation with them about anything they may require – dietary requirements, drink tastes, dessert options, etc. You want to leave them impressed when they leave and the best way to do this is for them to leave impressed. 

We hope these tips give you some inspiration when hosting guests at your home. What tips do you have for hosting guests at your home? Which of the tips above did you find most useful? Is there anything you think we should add to the list? Please let us know in the comment box below, we look forward to hearing from you.