"I am saddened by the ongoing events in Charlottesville, and I know that I speak for our community when I say that our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Virginia.

I have always taken a strong position in support of civil rights and in opposition to racism and discrimination of all kinds. Together with mayors from across the country, and on behalf of the citizens of Pensacola, I am reiterating my unequivocal belief that hate and bigotry have no place in America. I condemn the white supremacists, Neo-Nazis, Ku Klux Klan members and all other hate groups who do not share our democratic values. I deplore the violence and the terrible loss of life and injuries in Charlottesville, and I urge leaders at all levels of government to do the same.

Pensacola’s future is best served by a reputation for being a welcoming community and a beacon of respect for all. I intend to continue to work with everyone in our community to make sure that we live up to that reputation."

- Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward

Another record month at Pensacola International Airport

Pensacola International Airport has set another all-time monthly record number of passengers in July, with a total of 175,814 individuals arriving and departing the facility.

This is an increase of 13% over July 2016. Overall, Pensacola International Airport is up some 4% in total passengers for the fiscal year over the same period last year.

“July was another record month for travelers who made Pensacola International Airport their airport of choice,” said Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward. “The numbers don't lie and they are a testament to the experience travelers get from using our airport." Hayward said. "Pensacola International Airport will continue to be a driving force in our region, providing the best fares along the Gulf Coast.”

Operation Backpack

Operation Backpack 2017 almost quadrupled the numbers from the 2016 campaign. We were able to collect 350 backpacks and 3,892 items of school supplies. We also collected and raised $1,535 dollars. Operation Backpack 2017 brought in new sponsors and partners:

• Haynes Van & Storage (continued partnership from 2016)

• American Heritage Financial

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park

• Orange Theory Fitness

• Flynn Built Homes

• The Krewe of Gatsby Girls

• PNJ Be Local

• Roger Scott Tennis Center

• Pensacola Police Department

Not only were we able to help our kids who attend Cobb, Fricker, and Woodland, but we were able to help kids in the community who do not attend our centers.

Sending 350 kids back to school ready to succeed this 2017-2018 school year was a huge WIN!

Memorial Placement Ceremony

Veterans Memorial Park Pensacola is having a Memorial Placement Ceremony on Saturday, August 19th at 10:00am. Honoring the Fallen Marines of Vengeance 01, Pegasus 31 & 32, and Blue Angel 6. Click here for more information.

Eclipse 2017

On Monday, August 21, 2017, all of North America will be treated to an eclipse of the sun. Anyone within the path of totality can see one of nature’s most awe inspiring sights - a total solar eclipse.

This path, where the moon will completely cover the sun and the sun's tenuous atmosphere - the corona - can be seen, will stretch from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. Observers outside this path will still see a partial solar eclipse where the moon covers part of the sun's disk. Learn more here.

Rosie O'Grady's / Seville Quarter Week

This week we recognized Rosie O'Grady's, Inc as the birthplace of Seville Quarter here in Pensacola. We thank them for their contributions to the well-being of the City of Pensacola during its 50 years of doing business at 130 East Government Street. Mayor Hayward proclaimed this week (August 16 to August 22, 2017) as Rosie O'Grady's / Seville Quarter Week.

INSTAGRAM: Photo of the Week

This week City Hall participated in the 2^nd Annual #CityHallSelfie Day to boost civic pride in municipal services and leadership. The event is sponsored by Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL). ELGL, began the social media-focused campaign to promote engagement between public servants and citizens.

Don't forget to share your photo with us on Instagram. Tag us with #upsideofflorida or @cityofpensacola. Your image could be featured in the next UPwords newsletter. We'd love to see your photos! Photo credit: @cityofpensacola