PCB Life | Panama City Beach News, Events and Community Information

Author: PCB Staff 2

Shop Talk: Celebrate Father’s Day His Way at Pier Park
By Lee Ann Leonard

Pier Park invites locals and visitors to celebrate Father’s Day his way at the open-air center. From sharing delicious dishes to enjoying some friendly competition, Pier Park offers plentiful ways to connect with pop. Dad-approved dining, gift and entertainment ideas include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse – Say you love him with a manly meal. The sizzle of a steak is a language he understands.
- Royal Escape Rooms – Prove that you’re better together by solving the puzzles and beating the clock. Choose from different themed rooms and difficulty levels.
- Ron Jon Surf Shop – Shop for the active, water sports-loving father at the world’s most famous surf shop! Browse surfboards, swimwear and other beach-friendly gear.
- Pro Image Sports – For the sports enthusiast, a licensed MLB, NFL, NCAA or NBA cap is sure to please. Undecided on the team? Grab him a trending Dad Gang hat. They’re designed by dads!
- Sunglass Hut – Protect pop’s peepers with stylish shades from the experts.
- Ford’s Garage – Ditch the man cave and head to the garage. Dad will love the vintage and Ford-themed décor almost as much as the gourmet burgers.
- AFTCO by Hy’s Toggery – The father who fishes will appreciate stylish performance apparel for anglers.
- Dave & Buster’s – Show your old man who’s boss by schooling him at basketball, air hockey or one of the hundreds of other arcade games in the amusement center’s midway.
- Awoken Kicks – For edgy fathers, select a vintage T-shirt, and pair it with limited-edition kicks. The combo is guaranteed to be a conversation starter.
- Fit2Run – For the fit father, gift him professionally-fit footwear from this runner’s superstore. Choose from brands like Nike, Brooks and Asics.
Discover additional ways to impress dad at Simon.com/Mall/Pier-Park.
June 3, 2025
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Celebrates 15 Years

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) proudly marked its 15th anniversary this last month, celebrating a decade and a half of exceptional service, growth, and economic impact in the Region. Since opening on May 23, 2010, ECP has been a cornerstone of progress and prosperity for Northwest Florida.

A Milestone of Service and Growth

Over the past 15 years, ECP has consistently evolved to meet the growing demands of the Region. Last year, the Airport welcomed nearly 1.9 million passengers, a remarkable 501% increase from its first year. This growth is a testament to ECP’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and enhancing the travel experience for its passengers.

Expansion and Innovation

ECP has undergone extensive expansion projects, including additional aircraft Gates, over 500 new parking spaces, and the completion of the Terminal Buildout, which provides much-needed holdroom space for passengers during peak travel seasons. In 2024, a larger baggage handling area was completed to ensure a more efficient experience for travelers.

The Airport has also introduced several new nonstop routes to popular destinations, including seasonal nonstop service this year on Delta Air Lines to New York City and Austin, encouraging tourism to Northwest Florida and offering convenient travel options for locals.

Economic Impact and Partnerships

ECP has solidified its role as a powerful economic generator for Northwest Florida. In partnership with Regional organizations such as the Bay Economic Development Alliance (Bay EDA) and Florida’s Great Northwest (FGNW), ECP has made significant contributions to the Region’s growing aerospace and aviation sectors.

In December, ECP finalized a partnership with IAG Aero Group to develop a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility, bringing in $107 million in capital investment and creating 500 new aviation jobs. Additionally, ECP has partnered with FSU InSPIRE to strengthen the aerodynamics and advanced manufacturing work through research, innovation, and education.

Looking Ahead

As ECP celebrates this significant milestone, the Airport remains dedicated to providing excellent passenger experiences, boosting economic growth, and sustaining its momentum. The contributions of ECP’s dedicated leaders, staff, and regional partners have been instrumental in guiding the Airport to further success in the next 15 years.

Mark Sheldon, Chair of the Airport Board of Directors, expressed his excitement for the future, stating, “ECP has been a vital part of our Region for the past 15 years, driving economic growth and providing convenient travel options for our residents. I am honored to play a role in guiding the Airport through this ongoing era of outstanding success. We owe our achievements to the dedication of our staff, the support of our partners, and most importantly, the trust and loyalty of our passengers. Thank you for choosing ECP and being a part of our journey. We look forward to serving you for many more years to come.

June 3, 2025
The Benefits of Owning a Collection of Guitars

Why One Guitar Is Never Enough

If you’re a guitarist—or aspire to be one—guitar collecting is practically a rite of passage. Who needs minimalism when you can have a 12-string acoustic next to your neon-green metal shredder? Owning a lot of guitars isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. And for your friends and family, it’s a test of patience and spatial awareness. Let’s dive into why filling every corner of your home with guitars is not only justified but downright genius.

Fostering Creative Chaos

Imagine this: you’re writing a song, and your trusty old acoustic just isn’t sparking joy. Enter your flame-top Les Paul with a tone so rich it could pay your rent. Different guitars bring out different vibes, and owning a collection is like having a mood ring—except heavier and much more expensive. Each guitar whispers, “Pick me up, let’s make magic,” although, let’s be honest, some are probably shouting, “Why haven’t you played me in six months?”

Plus, switching guitars mid-composition feels like swapping out characters in a play you’re directing. Suddenly, your folk ballad turns into a surf rock anthem. Who needs consistency when you have creativity?

Conquering Every Genre Like a Chameleon

Owning just one guitar is like trying to cook every meal with a single pot—you *could* do it, but you’ll miss out on the nuanced flavors of, say, a wok or a Dutch oven. (Yes, guitars are like cookware now, stay with me). A Stratocaster will make you sound like a blues legend, while a Telecaster screams country twang so loudly, even tumbleweeds will roll by your front door.

And then there’s the practical side: a collection means you’re ready for anything. Going to a cozy jam session? Bring your lightweight acoustic. Playing a heavy metal gig? Unleash your pointy, skull-adorned guitar that looks like it could double as a weapon in a medieval battle.

Making Emotional Investments

Every guitar has its quirks, its scars, and possibly even its smell. (That vintage hollow body? Definitely smells like the 70s—and not in a good way.) These instruments hold memories: the first gig, the first broken string, the first time you accidentally knocked one over and cried a little. Owning multiple guitars is like having a family, except these family members don’t argue with you at Thanksgiving.

And let’s not forget the sheer joy of aesthetics. Guitars are works of art, and a wall filled with them is basically a museum—except instead of “Do Not Touch” signs, it’s all “Play Me” vibes. Who needs Picasso when you have a sunburst finish staring back at you?

Practical Excuses for Owning More

Beyond the emotional appeal, owning a collection is downright practical. For example, what happens if a string breaks mid-performance? With a backup guitar, you can keep the show going (Without one, you’ll have to charm the audience with knock-knock jokes while frantically restringing). And let’s not forget travel guitars. Sure, they’re tiny, but tell me you don’t feel like a giant rock star playing one in a cramped hotel room.

You can also justify having “specialized” guitars: one for practice, one for recording, one for gigs, and one for Instagram photos. Hey, those filters aren’t going to apply themselves.

Your Retirement Plan (Sort Of)

Here’s a secret: guitars can be investments. That vintage Strat you’re eyeing might appreciate in value, though it’s just as likely to appreciate the pizza grease you accidentally spill on it. Either way, owning collectible guitars ensures that one day, when you’re retired, you can sit in a room full of them and reminisce about how you spent your life savings. Totally worth it.

Because, Why Not?

At the end of the day, collecting guitars is about joy. It’s about walking into a music store, locking eyes with a six-string beauty, and instantly justifying the purchase as “absolutely essential.” It’s about the thrill of discovery, the pride of ownership, and the occasional guilt when your significant other asks, “Is that a new guitar?” (Pro tip: always answer, “This old thing?”)

So go ahead, embrace the chaos. Fill your home with guitars until you can’t see the walls anymore. Because owning a lot of guitars isn’t just about music—it’s about living your best, string-filled life.

Need more convincing? Stop by and consult the guitar experts at Austin Music Co. at 17226 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, open Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

June 3, 2025
Know Your Neighbor – Ethan Register

By Paul Bonnette

A rising tide lifts all boats. For hotelier and Panama City Beach City Councilman Ethan Register, this motto sums up his goals and dreams for Bay County. Register understands the importance of tourism, hospitality and community. From his early days walking to downtown Harrison Ave and fishing off the marina, Register has a strong sense of the importance of community in our area. Register, who is General Manager of Hotel Indigo as well as Harrison’s Kitchen and Bar, has a strong affection for the field of hospitality and loves seeing our area grow and thrive.

After moving here from Georgia, Register attended Bay High School before moving on to Gulf Coast State College, and according to Register, saw the potential of the area.

“In 2003, I started my high school journey at Bay High School, where I had a truly memorable experience. After I graduated, I continued my education at Gulf Coast State College and FSU PC. What stood out to me about both institutions was the high-quality education they offered right here in our backyard. I lived in The Cove, so I have deep roots in the community and take pride in being a part of its growth and its future.”

After graduating from high school, Register found a way to overcome the financial challenge of paying for college by working on the beach. This would be the start of his Hospitality career.

“My path to a career in hospitality began unexpectedly while I was putting myself through college, working summers on the beach setting up chairs for a company called Aquatic Adventures. Before I graduated from FSU PC, my wife took a job at Holiday Inn Resort as Activities Director, and I was exploring a potential career in finance. After meeting my wife’s colleagues at Holiday Inn Resort, I ended up taking a Manager-in-Training position and eventually worked my way up to Front Desk Manager and then Assistant General Manager a year or so later. When we built Holiday Inn Express, I was honored to be named General Manager, giving me the incredible opportunity to build a team and a culture from the ground up. That experience ignited my passion for hospitality and solidified my career in this industry.”

His Hospitality path would soon propel him into the world of local politics, as in 2024, he was elected Panama City Beach City Councilman. For Register, this was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

“Starting as a Manager-in-Training, I worked my way up to become the Chief Operating Officer for Hilton Inc. I fell in love with hospitality because of the mindset that if you work hard and do the right things, you can build a remarkable career. While serving as COO, a public service opportunity came my way. Phil Chester, a respected leader and someone I admired, was termed out of his City Council position and he suggested looking into the position. I threw my name in the hat and the next thing I know I was elected City Councilman Ward 2 for the City of Panama City Beach, all the while raising two beautiful little girls.”

Soon after, Register would transition back to Downtown Panama City to run the newly opened Hotel Indigo and Harrison’s Kitchen and Bar, a decision that he says was all about returning to his roots.

“As my career progressed, a new opportunity emerged with The St. Joe Company to serve as General Manager at Hotel Indigo and Harrison’s. While I had plenty of experience in hotel management, I had never run a standalone restaurant before, but I like a challenge and recognized the potential of Harrison’s and Hotel Indigo to not only serve visitors but also our community. Now, here I am working in the Panama City Marina area where I grew up walking to and fishing off the dock. That means a lot to me.”

As a City Councilman for Panama City Beach, Register also has a strong desire to improve the quality of life for Panama City Beach residents.

“I understand the importance of having a beautiful, thriving city. My work in public service has been all about making our community a wonderful place to live for my family and for others who are raising their families. Residents have genuine ‘skin in the game’ when it comes to the safety, security and well-being of their loved ones whom they’ve chosen to raise in a thriving environment like Panama City Beach. Having worked in hospitality and tourism, I understand the economic value that visitors bring to our city. It’s vital that we continue to develop exciting attractions like Topgolf and Dolly Parton’s Pirate Voyage while preserving the charm and livability that make this place so special. My goal has always been, and will continue to be, to strike the right balance of supporting smart growth while ensuring we take great care of our residents.”

For PCB City Councilman, Hotelier and avid fisherman, Ethan Register, the future of Bay County looks very bright, and he remains hopeful that the rising tide of our area will continue to lift all the boats of our community, helping the area to continue to thrive, while still keeping its original charm.

“I’m really excited about the future of our community… Our city is growing, and Bay County is on the verge of becoming that ‘hidden gem’ that isn’t so hidden. I believe that’s a good thing for our area, and I’m really excited to welcome more families with the southern hospitality we are known for. I’ve traveled all over and I can say without hesitation, there are no better people than the people of Bay County.”

June 3, 2025
Update from the Office of Congressman Neal Dunn

President Trump is now more than 100 days into his second term. Already, the President has completely transformed how Washington works. From plummeting illegal border crossings to the swift downsizing of federal bureaucracy, President Trump is delivering on the promises he made to the American people.

During the first 100 days of his administration, President Trump has accomplished more than many of his predecessors have in their first year. This includes reducing illegal border crossings by 99.9%, reducing daily border encounters by 93%, pushing to increase funding for the VA, ending DEI programs throughout the federal government, and identifying billions of dollars in wasteful spending. To date, the Administration has saved American taxpayers $170 billion in wasteful spending.

I have made it my mission to support President Trump’s agenda in Congress by passing crucial legislation and working with the White House to ensure that Floridians have a voice in the decision-making process.

During the 119th Congress, I have supported several bills that will pave the way for President Trump’s agenda and deliver on the promise of an American Golden Age. One of our biggest victories is the passage of the SAVE Act. It’s simple: only American citizens should vote in American elections. While some states, such as Florida, are working to ensure that illegal immigrants are not voting in our elections, some states have refused to make the same pledge. The SAVE Act will require all states, even those run by Democrats, to follow this commonsense principle.

I am also proud to have voted in favor of the Laken Riley Act, a bill that requires the Department of Homeland Security to arrest illegal immigrants who have been charged with theft. This bill is designed to ensure that illegal immigrants with a criminal background remain in police custody, rather than being released. Earlier this year, President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law to protect all Americans from illegal immigrants with known criminal backgrounds to prevent further violence like the senseless death of University of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley.

House Republicans have been aggressive in passing President Trump’s agenda, but one key portion is missing: the President’s “Big, Beautiful Bill.” Earlier this month, my colleagues and I on the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a 26-hour markup on our portion of the bill. Our biggest priority was to preserve Medicaid for its intended beneficiaries.

Medicaid is a vital lifeline for our nation’s most vulnerable citizens. Unfortunately, Democrats have put the program’s future into jeopardy by allowing illegal immigrants, able-bodied adults without dependents, and deceased beneficiaries to remain on Medicaid rolls. This mismanagement threatens Medicaid’s financial future. I am proud to stand with my Republican colleagues in passing this important reform to preserve Medicaid benefits for those who need them and to keep the program on strong financial footing.

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your voice in Washington. Congress still has a lot of work to do, and I hope you will add your voice to the conversation as we continue the policymaking process. If you have a comment about upcoming legislation or need assistance with a federal agency, please contact my office in Panama City at (850) 785-0812.

June 2, 2025
Quality You Can Stand On: Highlighting American-Made Excellence and Affordable Financing

By Aubrie Rounds, Marketing Coordinator, Flooring Depot of Panama City

At Flooring Depot of Panama City, we believe that what you stand on matters—literally and figuratively. That’s why we’re proud to offer a wide selection of quality flooring options with a focus on American-made products like Mohawk’s RevWood, all backed by flexible financing plans to make your dream home a reality, no matter your budget.

Flooring That’s Made in the USA—For a Reason

In today’s global economy, it’s easy to overlook where a product comes from. But choosing American-made flooring does more than support domestic jobs—it also helps you sidestep the uncertainty of fluctuating tariffs and overseas shipping delays. With inflation and economic instability still a concern for many families, investing in products made in the U.S. is a smart, forward-thinking move.

That’s why we proudly carry RevWood by Mohawk, a high-performance laminate flooring made right here in the United States. RevWood combines the beauty of hardwood with the durability of laminate, offering the best of both worlds. It’s water-resistant, scratch resistant, and designed to hold up to whatever life throws at it—whether it’s muddy paws, spilled juice, or high heels.

But RevWood isn’t just a product we believe in because of its quality. It also represents a larger mission: keeping manufacturing jobs in the U.S., reducing our carbon footprint, and giving customers peace of mind during uncertain economic times. As the talk of tariffs on imported materials has increased over the past few years, American-made products like RevWood have become more competitively priced—often beating out foreign-made alternatives in both cost and performance.

Flooring, Cabinets, Countertops & More

At Flooring Depot, we offer more than just floors. We’re your one-stop shop for full home transformations, with a wide selection of kitchen and bathroom cabinets and beautiful countertops to complete your space. Whether you’re going for a sleek, modern look or a classic, timeless design, we have options to fit every style and budget.

Our expert team will help you match your flooring with cabinetry and countertops to create a cohesive, polished look that adds value to your home. From layout and color selection to custom measurements and installation, we take care of everything—so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors or stress over the details.

And if you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, timing matters. Our streamlined process and in-stock selections can help you move from inspiration to installation faster than you might expect.

Financing Options That Make It Easy to Say Yes

We understand that flooring, cabinets, and countertops are major investments—and sometimes, those upgrades come when money is tight. That’s why Flooring Depot offers special financing options, including six- and twelve-month interest-free plans for qualified buyers.

And right now, for a limited time, we’re offering 24-month financing—interest-free if paid in full before the end of the financing term. The special promotion ends at the end of June. This extended financing option makes it easier than ever to move forward with your project while keeping monthly payments manageable. Whether you’re replacing worn-out flooring or doing a full kitchen remodel, this offer helps you do it now without compromising on quality.

Our financing process is simple and quick. Come into one of our stores, and our team will walk you through the available plans, help you apply, and you will know quickly if you are approved, so you can get shopping right away.

Locally Owned. Community Focused

As a locally owned business, Flooring Depot of Panama City isn’t just a store—it’s a part of the community. We’re here to serve our neighbors with top-notch service, expert advice, and the kind of personalized care you won’t find at big box stores. From selection to installation, our goal is to make your home improvement experience stress-free and enjoyable.

Because we live and work right here in Bay County, we care deeply about our customers’ satisfaction. We stand behind our work and our products, and we’re always here to answer your questions—even after the job is done.

Whether you’re upgrading your floors, remodeling your kitchen, or building your dream bathroom from the ground up, Flooring Depot of Panama City is your go-to source for American-made quality, affordable prices, and personalized service. Come visit our showroom today to explore your options—and take advantage of 24-month special financing before the offer ends in June.

June 2, 2025
A Slow Pass 

By Rick Moore

I decided to skip my usual drive on Highway 98 and take Scenic Gulf Drive instead. The speed limit was twenty miles an hour. With the car windows down, slowly cruising along the beautiful shores of the Emerald Coast, I noticed several people parasailing. I longed to be up there, high above the waves, riding the air currents without a care in the world. But this moment of peace was interrupted when my phone rang. After checking the caller ID, I made the rare decision to let the call go to voicemail. That one simple choice changed the entire outlook of everything that happened for the rest of the day—in a very positive way. It was my moment of solitude. Having moments of solitude doesn’t mean you’re lonely; it means you’re enjoying being alone. Taking time to be alone may be exactly what you need to relieve anxiety.

Earlier that day, I had encountered a situation that brought on extreme anxiety. I became nervous and started to stutter. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, and given very little time to resolve a difficult matter, it felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders. Being pressured to move quickly can lead to panic attacks. We all experience anxiety. It’s often driven by a strong desire to succeed or to impress others. If this happens to you, pause and take a deep breath. Stop and think. Be where your feet are. Take a moment to regain your composure. Quit magnifying the causes of your stress, and let go of your problems. When the immediate crisis is over, find time to decompress. Those of us who live near the coast are so blessed to be able to visit the beach and listen to the waves. Neurologists say listening to waves positively influences our nervous system. Ocean waves follow a rhythmic pattern of 12 cycles per minute, mirroring the breathing pattern of a relaxed person. This is why sitting on the beach is such a great place to chill.

Some anxiety comes from external sources we can’t control, while other anxiety comes from internal sources we can control. Don’t take yourself so seriously. Forget about others’ perceptions of you. More importantly, forget about your own perception of you. Forget how well you did—or didn’t—perform. Forget your failures. Forget the pressure to keep up with the neighbors. Instead, incorporate healthy habits and get plenty of rest.

Another way to relieve stress and anxiety is to spend quality time with others. Shortly after we purchased annual passes for a theme park in Orlando, my wife unexpectedly had to have a major procedure on her hip. We debated whether she was well enough to make the trip. The decision was made to rent a wheelchair inside the parks. Friends we were going with encouraged us to get a Fast Pass, which allowed us to experience more rides in a shorter time. A Fast Pass is nice, but my question was: where can we get a “Slow Pass?”

There are times when the thrill of riding every rollercoaster in the park is fun, but the truth is, there are also times I just like to slow down. Fortunately, we found a good mix—skipping the long lines without feeling pressured to race off to the next ride. I enjoyed the new attractions, but my favorite time in the park was sitting on a bench, just talking with friends. Treat yourself today to a “Slow Pass.” It’s free—and it leads to a better you. Your family will be glad you did, your co-workers will be glad you did, and most of all, you will be glad you did.

Rick Moore is Communication Pastor at Destiny Worship Center

June 2, 2025
Minister’s Musing: Return to Me

By Kerry Knight, Emerald Beach Church of Christ

Thus says the Lord of Hosts: “Return to Me,” says the Lord of Hosts, “and I will return to you,” says the Lord of hosts (Zechariah 1:3).

Did you notice in the verse above that God uses the expression “Lord of hosts” three times in one verse? Why? Jehovah was making an undeniable point about the power and importance of this message. Because the history of ancient Israel was one of forsaking God and leaving “Him” to favor the pagan gods of the Canaanites, He was now giving them a strong message of both obedience and forgiveness, of repentance and His eternal love. If they would return to the God they had abandoned, He was willing to return to them.

In the New Testament James wrote: “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded” (James 4:8-9).

How often Christians leave the church, leaving behind not only their worship of God, but also their vow to serve Him. The world’s allure becomes more important to them, and their faith becomes a distant memory. Many never return to the Lord, and their soul is lost. God wants you back. He is willing to come to you and embrace you just as the father in Luke 15 with the prodigal son. God loves you and will forgive you.

June 2, 2025
Great Dad, Inattentive Husband?
“Soft Start Ups” Fix this (and other ) Common Problems

By Jamie C. Williamson, PhD

Too many women tell me that their husband is a great dad, but no longer a great husband.

Recently, one mom lamented that her husband does his share of the housework and spends quality time with their children, but pays very little attention to her. When he gets home, he always greets the kids before he greets her. He’s affectionate with the kids but shows little affection to her (except in bed).

He compliments his daughter’s appearance, but rarely hers. He coaches their games and plans fun family activities, but never an evening out with her. She has a great co-parenting relationship and a disappointing, empty marriage.

Fortunately, when Dad has the best of intentions but is missing the mark–the “fix” isn’t that difficult. In most cases, a devoted Dad is more unaware than insensitive. He would never intentionally demoralize his wife and certainly doesn’t want to be divorced.

So, I suggested that the wife use a Soft Start Up to initiate a Collaborative Conversation about this common, solvable problem. You can use this approach for all solvable problems.

Soft Start Ups Turn Conflict into a Collaborative Conversation

Collaborative conversation can only unfold when people have a positive disposition toward each other and are willing to participate openly and respectfully (rather than defensively). This is most likely to happen if the initiator choses the “right time” for the conversation – meaning you are both calm and able to focus – and you begin the conversation with a Soft Start-up.

A Soft Start Up allows you to address the issue directly in a way that avoids putting your spouse on the defensive. John Gottman explains that the Soft Start Up begins with a complaint, but not criticism or contemptuous accusations.

Here’s the difference:

Complaint – focuses on a specific behavior and addresses the specific infraction your spouse made.

Example: You are such a great Dad. You do more than your share of work around the house, and you spend time with the kids on their homework and just playing with them. They adore you. And so do I. I would really like us to find a way to have more quality time together. I know it may sound a bit selfish, but I need to feel like your wife, not just their mother.

Criticism – is the complaint plus a negative comment about your spouse’s personality or overall character

Example:  You are such a great Dad. You spend plenty of time with the kids. But you just don’t get it. You never think to pay that kind of attention to me. Don’t you care about my feelings?

Contemptuous Accusation – fueled by long-simmering negative thoughts about your spouse and conveys disrespect and/or disgust through sarcasm, cynicism, name-calling, eye-rolling, hostile humor, etc.

Example:   You are such a GREAT dad. Too bad you are such a lousy husband. People say I’m lucky to be married to a man that spends so much time with the kids. But they don’t know that you are not really a man to me.  If you don’t start paying attention to me, I’ll find someone who will.

To ensure you start your Collaborative Conversation with a Soft Start Up, follow these guidelines:
1. Complain, don’t criticize or blame.
2. Make statements that start with I instead of You.
3. Describe what is happening, but don’t evaluate or judge.
4. Be Clear, polite, and appreciative.
5. Don’t store things up.
Collaborative Conversations require that you both are open to considering each other’s opinions, ideas, motivations and preferences. For collaborative conversations to work, you must be willing to back away from strident views and to listen to, and be influenced by, each other. This does not mean that you should agree with each other but rather accept the other’s point of view as valid and understandable, under the circumstances.

This is the point where you seek more to understand than to be understood and move out of conflict into a productive conversation about how to resolve your issue. Which, in this case, is how to inject a bit of romantic love back into your marriage.

Collaborative Conversations require the willingness to bring up a touchy subject. But, when the possible outcome can make your marriage work again, the payoff is worth the effort to overcome your nervousness, learn the Soft-Start Up, and “work it out”.

Let me know if I can help.

Jamie C. Williamson, PhD is a FL Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator and member of the Gottman Referral Network. She is an owner and partner at Amity Mediation Workshop, a mediation practice specializing in “friendly divorce” mediation and psycho-educational counseling for couples. Dr. Jamie speaks frequently on relationship topics and authors the blog “Work it Out”. You can find her online at amitymediationworkshop.com.
June 2, 2025
Book Review: Becoming Supernatural: How Common People are Doing the Uncommon

Reviewed by Michael McManus, MSW LCSW

“Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon” by Joe Dispenza is a captivating blend of science, spirituality, and personal development that invites readers to explore their potential for transformation. In this book, Dispenza presents a compelling case for how individuals can harness the power of their minds to create extraordinary changes in their lives.

The book is structured into two main parts: the science behind the phenomena and practical applications. Dispenza delves into the latest research in quantum physics, neuroscience, and epigenetics, illustrating how thoughts and emotions can influence our reality. He articulates complex concepts in an accessible manner, making it easy for readers to grasp the implications of his findings.

One of the most engaging aspects of “Becoming Supernatural” is the myriad of real-life stories from individuals who have experienced significant healing and transformation through the principles Dispenza teaches. These testimonials serve as powerful motivators, demonstrating that the techniques he describes can lead to tangible results.

Dispenza emphasizes the importance of meditation and visualization as tools for personal change. He provides step-by-step guidance on various meditation practices, encouraging readers to delve into their subconscious and reprogram their beliefs and habits. This hands-on approach empowers readers to take charge of their lives and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness.

However, some readers may find that Dispenza’s reliance on anecdotal evidence and spiritual concepts can come across as unscientific. Skeptics might question the validity of some claims, particularly those related to miraculous healings. Nevertheless, for those open to exploring the connection between mind and matter, the book offers a wealth of insights and practical strategies.

In summary, “Becoming Supernatural” is a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional beliefs and encourages readers to embrace their potential for change. Joe Dispenza’s blend of scientific research and practical advice makes this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in personal growth, healing, and the power of the mind. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner of meditation or a curious newcomer, this book is likely to inspire you to unlock your own supernatural abilities. While I don’t agree with everything in this book, I believe there’s enough thought-provoking content to make it worth reading.

Michael McManus MSW LCSW has been a practicing psychotherapist for several decades in the Florida panhandle. He and his wife Angela have raised their 4 children here in Santa Rosa Beach, and in their spare time and enjoy Yoga, hiking, biking cooking and exploring. Michael can be reached by phone or by text at 1(850) 837-0123 or on his website: psychotherapy30A.com.

June 2, 2025