Break the silence: Bay County billiards events geared toward suicide prevention

PANAMA CITY — In an attempt to raise awareness and prevention of suicide, a Bay County group will be hosting a series of pool-playing events during September, which is National Suicide Prevention Month .

Throughout September, Bay County will partner with the Suicide Prevention Awareness Response and Education Group of Bay County (SPARE) to educate the general public about the 988 hotline. On its Facebook page, SPARE describes itself as "a coalition of mental health providers, suicide survivors, and concerned citizens."

All funds donated to SPARE in September will stay local. Donations are accepted at all locations.

According to the Florida Department of Health, in 2022 there were 3,445 suicides in Florida and 7,477 hospitalizations for non-fatal self-inflicted injuries.

The pool playing events in Bay County are as follows:

Annies Hideaway Lounge 8 Ball Tournament

Saturday, Sept. 7, 3 p.m. Events include a 50/50 drawing, a cue raffle and more. $25 entry fee. 4708 Highway 389, Lynn Haven.

T's on Thomas

Friday, Sept. 13. Dinner will be provided at 5 p.m. The tournament will begin at 7 p.m. Events and features include live music, an entertainment show, and raffles will go on from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. $40 entry fee. 8011 Thomas Drive, Ste A, Panama City Beach.

Coyotes Blind Draw Scotch Doubles

Sunday, Sept. 15. 11 a.m. High pool players will be paired with lower pool players. 50/50 drawing. 2727 Joan Ave., Panama City.

Moose Lodge A Split Bracket Laggers choice tournament

Friday, Sept. 20. Sign up will be at 6 p.m. $20 entry fee. 50/50 drawing. 739 E. 24th Place, Panama City.

The Break Room 8/9 Ball Tournament

Saturday Sept. 21. 2 p.m. start time. Features include $25 BBQ plates and 50/50 raffles specials. 100% of funds will go charity. $15 entry fee. 2727 Joan Ave., Panama City.

Beach Safety: Bay County Commission approves TDC plan for new public safety funds

Re-Rack Handicapped 9 ball tournament

Saturday, Sept. 28. 5 p.m. start time. $25 entry fee. 50% of all sales and raffles will be donated to SPARE. 2727 Joan Ave., Panama City.

Daddy Frank's 8 Ball tournament

Sunday, Sept. 29. 6 p.m. start time. $15 entry fee. Features include 50/50 drawings, raffles, and baskets. 3955 E. Business 98, Panama City.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Break the silence: Bay County billiards events geared toward suicide prevention