Gulf Coast Citizen Diplomacy Council

Our five days spent with the Hungarian delegation were fun, despite the somber program topic.  Not only did the group have the weekend to enjoy the beach, but they also participated in a wonderful home hospitality evening in the North Hill Victorian of Istvan & Jennell Peteranecz, celebrated St. Patrick's Day, and hit the sales rack at a local department store.  Although it rained their first full day in town, they were good sports and took a driving tour of the city and of Historic Pensacola Village followed by gelato from Joe Patti's.

Sue Hand of Favor House of Northwest Florida crafted a wonderful two days of programming so that they could examine educational programs and the criminal justice system in relationship to domestic violence.  Fred Sulzbach spoke about the educational programming, and Marsha Travis accompanied the group to a shelter.  Dr. Richard Hough of the University of West Florida covered the role and efforts of law enforcement while Chief Nancy Newland of Pensacola Junior College explored best practices and addressed rape.  The Escambia County Sheriff's Department, Gregg Marcille and Susan Faris of the Office of the State Attorney, and Tammie Booker of the County Corrections Bureau all shed light on the subject and helped to create a balanced program. 

Board members Patricia Windham and Joe Denmon joined executive director Jena Melancon at Jackson's on the group's final day to present Honorary Citizenship Awards prepared by Elaine Mager & Mayor Mike Wiggins.