Since ACE 2 trailblazed into the Catholic schools of this area, Pensacola has developed a deep relationship with the ACE program and has provided years of memories for the current ACErs and alumni. When an e-mail was sent out, asking ACE alumni to share some of their Pensacola memories, there was an overwhelming response, which further proves the love and respect that current and former ACE teachers have for this Florida beach town.
When inquired about his memories of Pensacola, Joe Villinski (ACE 4) recalls most vividly the beach and how his community shared many special moments hanging out at Perdido Key. Villinski taught at St. John the Evangelist and was impressed by the “small but dedicated Catholic population working for nothing to ensure families received a values-based education.” Katie Eagen Casale (ACE 6) who also taught at St. John remembers the iron will of their principal, Sister Patricia, and the young and transient community that resulted from a high population of Navy families in the region. Continuing in the tradition of St. John the Evangelist, Jared Dees (ACE 11) described the St. John community as “a family more than a school”.
Those who taught at Pensacola Catholic High School were deeply committed to the athletic department and the football games were a highlight for the Catholic community in the area. Joe Waln (ACE 6), Townsend Bailey (ACE 6) and Terry McCarron (ACE 8) coached several of the sports while they served at the school and found the school community to be very supportive and welcoming. “Parents and coworkers looked out for us,” Waln said.
Continuing the tradition of service to Catholic schools in the Pensacola community, Beth Caron (ACE 13), Charleen Vinalon (ACE 12) and Anthony Van Gessel (ACE 12) currently assist two nights a week at an adult ENL program at St. John Evangelist. They teach 50-60 participants, with ages ranging from 11-60 years, intermediate reading, writing and speaking classes. Above and beyond their service to the students at St. John, these ACErs have been called to serve the Spanish community.
Regardless of their ACE class, all communities who have been lucky enough to be placed in Pensacola have had the blessing of a strong community and beautiful Florida beaches. ACErs in Pensacola work hard at their schools, but also know how to kick back and have a good time. Two of the traditions that have continued over the years are the annual Memorial Day and Labor Day parties. Molly Welzbacher Carlin (ACE 7), who taught at Little Flower School, remembers when “ACErs from far and wide would descend upon Perdido Key and crash at the Pensacola house.”
One of the focal points of fun and community in Pensacola, which is beloved by many of the ACE communities who have visited the area, is the infamous FloraBama. This modest watering hole has hosted many ACErs over the years and will forever be remembered for its annual Mullet Toss event. Although it received serious damage from Hurricane Katrina, the FloraBama, as well as the history of ACE in Pensacola, will continue to thrive.