Inweekly dec 1 2016 issue by Inweekly

HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Independent News | December 1, 2016 | Volume 17 | Number 48 | inweekly.net

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winners & losers

news

outtakes

Challenging friends and family on their sexism and/or racism is activism.

a&e

cover story

calendar

publisher Rick Outzen

art director Richard Humphreys

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Duwayne Escobedo, Jennifer Leigh, Chuck Shepherd, Hamishe Randall, Shelby Smithey

Independent News is published by Inweekly Media, Inc., P.O. Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591. (850)438-8115. All materials published in Independent News are copyrighted. ÂŠ 2015 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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winners & losers

winners MANNA FOOD PANTRIES MANNA Food Pantries' Ninth Annual Fill the Mayflower food drive brought in enough food to provide over 52,000 meals to the hungry. The food will be distributed through MANNA's three pantries and other food programs in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. This past year, MANNA provided food to 21,129 people, including nearly 8,000 children. Sponsored by Coastal Moving and Storage, the longtime event is the single most important food drive for MANNA and the hungry in the community.

THE USO OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

C O M I N G S E P T E M B E R 2 0 TH

For several years, Pen Air Federal Credit Union has assisted with the Thanksgiving feast by providing turkeys to the USO. This year 150 turkeys were donated. The USO of Northwest Florida served more than 1,000 troops, who are not able to make it home, at the Eighth Annual Thanksgiving Feast & Festivities event. In addition to Pen Air's donation, Pensacola Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Marie Callendar's, and Frito-Lay also provided generous donations to complete the Thanksgiving meal.

CHIP SIMMONS The Escambia County

Assistant Administrator Simmons is the new chief deputy of operations for Escambia County Sheriff David Morgan. Simmons retired as Pensacola Police Chief in August 2015 after 29 years of service. While with the county, Simmons has supervised the county jail operations after a series of jail deaths led to the firing of Corrections Director Michael Tidwell.

losers NATIONAL COUNCIL ON COMPENSATION INSURANCE On Nov.

22, Leon County Circuit Judge Karen Gievers blocked a 14.5 percent increase in workers' compensation insurance rates because of violations of Florida's Sunshine Law. The judge ruled, in part, that the National Council on Compensation Insurance, the organization that files rate proposals for the industry, did not comply with legal requirements about holding public meetings during its deliberations on the hike. She also wrote that NCCI held improper closed-door meetings with staff members of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. Let's hear some applause for the Sunshine Law.

OLD CAMPAIGN SIGNS The election is

over, but some campaign signs are still up. Attention all candidates, whether you were victorious or defeated, please pick up your signs. There are no longer relevant and are merely litter now.

STATE BUDGET The leaders of the Florida

Legislature understand what the 2017-18 state budget will be tight, but differ on how it may hamper their legislative agendas. Senate President Joe Negron wants to increase the funding and bolster the quality of Florida's state university system. He expects lawmakers to reallocate $2.46 billion of the $82 billion state budget to meet that goal. House Speaker Richard Corcoran believes the financial outlook is direr and projects there could be a budget shortfall of $500 million or greater.

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outtakes

by Rick Outzen

ALL SIZZLE, NO STEAK While many politicians proclaim they want the voters to hold them accountable, few willingly provide the public the facts necessary to do so. Take the case of Mayor Ashton Hayward and the Transparent Pensacola initiative. In July 2015, Mayor Hayward created the Transparent Pensacola page on the city website to support his "firm commitment to making city government more open, accountable, and accessible to the residents" by providing "access to information about what is really happening." He said he wanted the web page to give the public "ways to hold decision-makers and partners accountable for the decisions we make." However, transparency and accountability are only possible when the information on the city's website is accurate. Most of the information on the page is more than three months old and woefully out of date. The oldest and oddest post on the page is from December 2015 and concerns Mayor Hayward's endorsement of Gov. Scott's Enterprise Fund. The endorsement earned Hayward a seat at Gov. Rick Scott's State of the State address. However, the State Legislature failed to pass the governor's request during the 2016 session. The Transparent Pensacola page also has a link to City Administrator Eric Olson's monthly updates. The last available update is from August 8, 2016. Olson has given three updates since then.

Under its "Pardon Our Dust" page, the city supposedly is giving the citizens the current status of seven city projects that have a total investment of nearly $127 million. The completion dates are wrong on two of them. DeepFlex is no longer in the city's vocabulary. The latest plans for Gulf Coast Marine Fisheries Hatchery Enhancement Center and VT MAE MRO Hangar aren't posted. Mayor Ashton Hayward also promised to "produce monthly, line-item financial statements that will be posted online for the public to view, along with explanations for any significant variances from budget projections." The latest monthly financial reports on the city website are from August 2016. The reports only include fund balances and expenditures, not revenues. It's hard to get an accurate picture of the city's finances with one-third of the information missing. Also, there are no explanations online of the changes in the budgets. It's how CFO Dick Barker hid the more than $200,000 in severance and settlement checks paid to Hayward's former administrators and COO–most would agree those payments were "significant variances from budget projections." It's all sizzle and no steak. A Pensacola resident reading Transparent Pensacola and its links would not gain an accurate understanding of the current status of city issues, the millions of dollars worth of city projects, or city finances. {in} rick@inweekly.net

It's hard to get an accurate picture of the city's finances with one-third of the information missing.

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RESISTING THE SAVIOR MENTALITY

Jordan Flaherty / Courtesy Photo

By C. S. Satterwhite Author Jordan Flaherty came to activism when he was a teenager. "My first protest was when I was 16," said Flaherty. "It was in support of friends who were expelled from school for organizing against sexual assault." Years later, Flaherty is an award-winning journalist featured on numerous news outlets, from CNN to NPR. As a white Southerner who speaks and writes candidly about race, he's a frequent guest on black media. Flaherty also has the unique distinction of being the only (known) journalist spied upon by the New York Police Department during its notorious spy programs of recent years, in which the NYPD actually traveled to Flaherty's hometown of New Orleans to build their files. While the subjects of his stories vary— from Palestine to the Prison Industrial Complex to attacks on women's health clinics—as with many topics in America, many of Flaherty's stories come back to race. In many ways, Flaherty defines the role of the journalist within activism. He works in a community and writes about the community, trying his best to see the situation as they see it. Yet the New Orleans resident takes issue with how activism is typically defined. "I don't want to limit activism to protest," said Flaherty. "Challenging friends and family on their sexism and/or racism is activism." As the holidays roll around, many are wondering how to handle the interesting post-election dinner conversations. Flaherty's latest book may be exactly 66

what they need to read to embolden their resolve to have the difficult conversations necessary at this time in history. "No More Heroes: Grassroots Challenges to the Savior Mentality" covers a broad range of subjects, most dealing with racism and sexism. From the Black Lives Matter Movement to Teach for America, wherever progressives are, Flaherty offers a way forward, which avoids trampling over already, marginalized communities. As the title implies, Flaherty's book is largely concerned with the "savior mentality," a common belief common among activists. According to Flaherty, "the savior mentality means thinking we don't need to hear the voices of those who are closest to the problem and solution." "It's the idea that change comes from individuals, rather than collective action," said Flaherty. "For example, we are taught that Lincoln ended slavery, a view of history that ignores millions of people that fought and died to end slavery, whether through political organizing or slave rebellions and other brave actions." The savior mentality "keeps us from seeing how change happens," said Flaherty. "It's disempowering, and it's incorrect." Although he says this problem is all around us, from the movies we watch to the way we're taught history in school, Flaherty personally remembers seeing this as an issue after Hurricane Katrina. Living in New Orleans during the storm was traumatic for the residents of the city. As the devastation became clear, watching the aftermath unfold on TV was, at a dif-

ferent level, traumatic for the nation. Many people with the best of intentions rushed to New Orleans to help without knowing what the city actually needed or wanted, and often without listening to those on the ground who actually understood the city. This is where the problems began. "For me," said Flaherty, "living in New Orleans in the years after Katrina was a real awakening. I saw people coming to our city to ‘help,' but bringing such a condescending attitude, like colonial explorers. And many of these good volunteers actually drained more resources than they contributed." The target audience for Flaherty's book is not those who are on the fence, but really those who are already in the trenches. Many of the progressive activists, in particular, are the ones Flaherty hopes to reach. The timing couldn't be better. The recent electoral victory of Donald Trump has energized activists. Much of this energy comes from the alarming rise of racially motivated hate crimes. As of this writing, the Southern Poverty Law Center reports over 700 potential hate crimes since the Nov. 8 election. According to Flaherty, "the Trump victory shows that whatever we've been doing, it's been either the wrong thing or not enough." "Progressive white people are uniquely positioned to talk to our friends and family members about racism, about fear, about immigration," said Flaherty. "We all need to step up our game, to take more risks." Among the many issues covered in "No More Heroes," Flaherty is most concerned with what he sees as "a rising tide of white supremacy and fascism." Recent gatherings of white supremacists, or "identitarians" from the "alt-right" movement lend credence to Flaherty's concern. "The Atlantic" magazine released a video, viewed by millions already, of a Washington, DC, gathering where men in suits could be seen giving the Nazi salute while yelling "Hail Trump, hail our people, hail victory!" Although Trump denounced the white supremacist organization, the fear is a clear and present danger for many communities in the United States, but also around the globe. "From Trump here to Brexit in England and Marine Le Pen in France, to Duterte in the Philippines," said Flaherty. "I hope this book can be a lesson in how to fight this [rise of racism and fascism]," said Flaherty. In writing his book, Flaherty spoke with communities who were fighting before the election and would certainly be fighting after.

Recalling his experiences, Flaherty said, "I got to spend the last several years speaking with brilliant organizers who have been successful in fighting repression." "From the Arab Spring to Black Lives Matter to indigenous resistance… this book is an attempt to amplify those voices." Covering many areas, from the history of the movement and even to the author's personal stories, race is the subject that ultimately underlines "No More Heroes." Most activist causes have some sort racial component, which requires dialogue. Yet many people freeze when talking to people of the different ethnicities about race, refusing to discuss the subject for fear of saying or doing the wrong thing. Well-intentioned people become afraid to venture into uncomfortable territory to explore their own thoughts on racism, homophobia, Islamophobia, and sexism, for instance. In response, Flaherty said the best course is forward, but with an open mind and open ears. For those wary of making mistakes, Flaherty offers this advice: "I would quote the Zapatistas, who say, ‘Walking, we ask questions.' In other words, don't get so frozen in fear that you don't act—we need people to take action." Flaherty continued, "but, as you take action, listen to the voices of those around you, and be willing to change course based on their feedback. Don't go in thinking you have all the answers, move forward in social work seeking to learn and grow along the way." Whether in streets or the soup kitchens, Flaherty offers a way to remain strong to personal convictions, while avoiding the pitfalls many activists encounter. At the very least, for those people willing to become activists at the family dinner table and the water cooler at work, Flaherty's book, in the words of historian Robin D.G. Kelley, is the "perfect gift for the age of Trump." {in}

“Progressive white people are uniquely positioned to talk to our friends and family members about racism, about fear, about immigration.” Jordan Flaherty

JORDAN FLAHERTY READING

WHAT: Jordan Flaherty reads from his latest book, “No More Heroes: Grassroots Challenges to the Savior Mentality” WHEN: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 WHERE: Open Books Bookstore, 1040 N. Guillemard St. COST: Free DETAILS: jordanflaherty.org or openbookspcola.org

inweekly.net

MR. GAETZ GOES TO WASHINGTON

Matt Gaetz

By Rick Outzen A little less than a month ago, State Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fort Walton Beach) was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, beating Democrat Steven Specht 69%-31%. He is only the fifth person, and third Republican, to represent Northwest Florida since World War II. Inweekly caught up with Gaetz two days before Thanksgiving. He shared, "The easy part is over, Rick. Now we've got to actually go govern." Gaetz has a proven track record of governance. For the past six years, he has served in the Florida House, rising to the chairmanship of the powerHouse Finance & Tax Committee in 2014. He earned a reputation has a tireless worker, skilled political strategist, and great debater on the House floor. He told Inweekly that he was impressed with the attitude of U.S. House Republicans. "There's a renewed enthusiasm. There's real accountability. There's no one to point the finger at. Republicans in Washington will either start solving our country's problems, or the voters will throw us out with good reason. I'm eager to be a part of that new ethic, that desire to really roll up our sleeves and get to work." Because Representatives Jeff Miller (R-Chumuckla) and Rich Nugent (R-Spring Hills) retired this year, Florida does not have a member on the House Armed SerDecember 1, 2016

vices Committee for the upcoming session. He wants that to change. "One area where I want to have focus is rebuilding our nation's military and taking care of our veterans, and that's why I'm working hard to get on the Armed Services Committee," said Gaetz. He has traveled to Washington, D.C. and met with the House leadership. He has found the keys to being effective in Congress are to show you can be a team player and demonstrate that you are willing to work hard. Gaetz shared a behind-the-scenes look at how Speaker of the House Paul Ryan works. "We had a conference meeting, and there were some Republicans who were pushing to reinstall provisions of the earmark system, where people in Congress could direct funding to specific items in their districts," he said. The Republicans had gotten rid of earmarks after several reported scandals and misuses of funds, according to Gaetz. "There were some that thought well, we got control now, so let's give ourselves the earmark power back," he said. "I was so proud that Paul Ryan stood before the conference and said, ‘We will not be doing this.

We have been given the trust of the people, and we will behave in every way worthy of that trust.'" Gaetz added, "From the outset, I thought that it set the right tone." He was an early supporter of Donald Trump. When he faced his opponents in the first Republican Congressional debate in June, he was unabashed in his support of Trump. Gaetz said at the debate held at Booker T. Washington High School, "I'm an enthusiastic supporter of Donald Trump and here's why. People in this country have woken up to the fact that for the last several decades both political parties have been working for the same special interests." He added, "I like the fact that somebody is going to go to Washington and completely hit the restart button. That's one of the reasons why the day I announced my candidacy for Congress endorsed Donald Trump because he is going to make America great again." Since Nov. 8, the 34-yeard-old Congressman has watched President-elect Donald Trump's selection process for his Cabinet with great interest. "Donald Trump takes on its own unique flavor, so you see those forces colliding," he said. "I believe there have been some very

“Republicans in Washington will either start solving our country's problems, or the voters will throw us out with good reason.” Matt Gaetz

competent people that he's looked at, that he's chosen." There are some more important spots that he and others in Northwest Florida are going watching closely. "I am hopeful that Jeff Miller will be asked to serve in the administration as the Secretary of the Veterans Affairs," said Gaetz. "I think that Jeff Miller knows what structural reforms are absolutely necessary if we're going to save the VA from itself." Another Floridian that he recommends watching is Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. "Pam Bondi, whom we know well here in Florida, is someone who may get a significant role in the Administration, and I like that," he said. "I like seeing Floridians in positions of national significance, because then when we have challenges we're dealing with someone who knows us, who can point to Escambia County or Santa Rosa County on a map. I think that will give us an advantage in the Trump Administration that we haven't necessarily seen in the past." Gaetz talked about the challenges of assembling a Cabinet that is diverse, yet cohesive. "The consequences of myopic administration are dire because then you don't really sand off the rough edges of public policy with debate and disagreement and a refining of work product," he said. "At the same time, you've got to thread that needle, because you don't want to be in a situation where you are so diverse in thought from a context standpoint that you're unable to craft coherent foreign policy." He wondered aloud how Mitt Romney, former Massachusetts governor and 2012 GOP presidential nominee, would work with retired Army General Michael Flynn, whom Trump has named as his National Security Advisor. "General Flynn fundamentally believes in engagement with Russia. Mitt Romney believes in more bullish tactics. How do those two get together and form coherent policy? It could be great, but it also is just something we're going to have to watch as it evolves," said Gaetz. Before heading home to share Thanksgiving with his family, he gave an update on his father, Don Gaetz, the former Florida Senate president who retired this year. "Mom and dad are great," he shared. "Mom's got us all on a diet. She told me that after seeing my television commercials, I needed to lose a few pounds. I said, ‘But, Mother, the camera adds 10 pounds,' to which she responded, ‘Well how many were pointed at you?'" Laughing, Gaetz added, "So no pumpkin pie, none of some of our favorites, but it'll be like a low-carb, lean Thanksgiving for the Gaetz family, followed by my mother making my dad and I walk around a lot." {in} 7

"The Electoral College is important because it allows every state to be involved in the process," said Evans. "The week before the election people were talking about the election could hinge on New Hampshire and their four electoral votes or one of the Nebraska or Maine congressional delegates and how those went one way or the other." He added, "If you had only a popular vote, nobody would be paying any attention to New Hampshire… in the Electoral College, it evens the playing field a little bit so that every state that is a part of the union gets to have a say in who the leader of the union is."

KELLY MOVES UP UWF's Vice President

Bubba Watson / Courtesy Photo

WATSON FOR MAYOR? Two-time

Masters champion and Pensacola resident last week created a stir when he told the Associated Press that his dream was one day to be mayor of Pensacola. "I've had a dream," Watson said. "I moved back in the city limits of Pensacola so one day I can run for mayor." The idea of Bubba Watson being Pensacola's next mayor did garner national attention among sportswriters: "I would love to cover Watson in a political race. Can you imagine? I've never had a lesson in politics, and I know this is completely unconventional, but it works for me." –Kyle Porter of CBSSports.com "There is a precedent to a tour player becoming a mayor. Rocky Thompson, who won three Senior PGA Tour events, was the mayor of Toco, Texas, in the ‘90s." –John Strege, Golf Digest. The next election for Pensacola mayor is in 2018. Mayor Ashton Hayward has not announced his intentions. Other possible candidates that have been mentioned are Grover Robinson, Brian Spencer, Dee Dee Davis, Charles Bare, Lumon May, Doug Bates, Dick Appleyard, and D.C. Reeves.

NO FLORIDA FLIP Jeremy Evans doesn't expect the Florida delegation to the Elec88

toral College to flip its votes for Democrat Hillary Clinton. He is the state committeeman for the Escambia County Republican Party and one of Florida's 29 delegates to the Electoral College. On Dec. 19, he will travel to Tallahassee to cast his vote in the Florida Senate chambers. "We had to file an oath with the Secretary of State that basically is a signed and notarized oath, so it would be a felony to violate that oath," Evans said. That has deterred people from sending emails and phone calls regarding his vote. "I have been getting anywhere between 50 and 100 emails a day," he said on "Pensacola Speaks." "I think that it took them awhile to get my phone number. Last Friday I started getting the phone calls, and they are anywhere between 30 to 40 phone calls." With the 2016 presidential election being one of the most contentious in our history, Evans isn't surprised that he has been contacted. "There is a lot of interest by the folks that wanted Hillary to be president to do anything they can to try to continue to alter the election results," he said. "There are various websites out there that have published all the information of all the electors throughout the entire country." He does believe the Electoral College serves an important purpose.

for University Advancement, Dr. Brendan Kelly, has been hired as the chancellor of University of South Carolina Upstate. His first day at USC Upstart is March 1, 2017. At a press conference held on the Spartanburg campus, Kelly said, "I am excited about the opportunity to lead the University of South Carolina Upstate as its next chancellor. The university is poised to enhance its contribution to the higher education landscape of the USC system and the state of South Carolina. I am grateful to be part of the next chapter of growth and development at USC Upstate." Kelly will become the USC Upstate's sixth leader in its 50-year history. The University of South Carolina Upstate is a located in Spartanburg, South Carolina and has approximately 6,000 students and 340 full-time faculty. University of South Carolina President Harris Pastides said, "Dr. Kelly is an accomplished scholar and academic leader, and I am confident that he is the right person to lead us into the next era at USC Upstate." Kelly served several roles at UWF since joining the faculty in 2004. Prior to joining the Division of Advancement, Kelly was the director of the School of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts and chair of the Department of Communication Arts at UWF. He was director of the nationally recognized UWF speech and debate program. Specializing in speech communication training, Kelly taught courses in political communication, speech communication, communication ethics and various areas related to strategic communication.

He led UWF's 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign, and that has raised in excess of $48 million toward its $50 million goal. "USC Upstate, which produces approximately 1,500 graduates each year, is of great importance to the Upstate region and to the state of South Carolina," said Tommy Young, chairman of the Spartanburg County Commission for Higher Education, at the press conference. "Brendan Kelly is a highly respected leader in higher education, and I look forward to the leadership he will bring to USC Upstate."

OVERTIME REG BLOCKED Last week, a federal judge stopped implementation of an Obama administration rule concerning overtime pay that was to go into effect on Dec. 1. "The Greater Pensacola Chamber has been working to support the US Chamber's efforts to delay implementation of this anti-business policy," said Todd Thomson, vice president of Public Affairs for the Greater Pensacola Chamber. "We will continue to monitor this developing situation." On Nov. 22, Texas U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant issued a temporary injunction halting the rule that would have required employers to pay overtime to most salaried workers who earn less than $47,476 annually, a much higher threshold than the current annual salary limit of $23,660. "Due to the approaching effective date of the Final Rule, the Court's ability to render a meaningful decision on the merits is in jeopardy," he wrote. "A preliminary injunction preserves the status quo while the Court determines the department's authority to make the Final Rule as well as the Final Rule's validity."

“I am excited about the opportunity to lead the University of South Carolina Upstate as its next chancellor.” Dr. Brendan Kelly

NEW COUNCIL LEADERSHIP At a special meeting of the Pensacola City Council held on November 22, 2016, the City Council elected Brian Spencer as the President of the City Council and Gerald Wingate as Vice President of the City Council. The President and Vice President Elect assumed their positions immediately. In 2013 City voters chose to amend the City Charter by doing away with two at-large City Council seats. In 2014 Dr. Megan Pratt's District A at-large seat was eliminated, and on November 22, immediate past Council President Charles Bare's District B at-large seat was eliminated. This brings the total number of City Council Members to seven. inweekly.net

livelihood. They want this system of government to become a permanent and accepted way to govern an island nation. And that's what their number one interest is right now." Senator Rubio reaffirmed his statement that his priority for this next year, and for President-elect Donald Trump, is to reverse "President Obama's one-sided concessions to the Castro regime."

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio / Courtesy Photo

CONTINUING TO APPLY PRESSURE

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio believes the U.S. government must continue to apply pressure on the Cuban government now that longtime dictator Fidel Castro has died. On Sunday, Nov. 27, he appeared on NBC's "Meet the Press with Chuck Todd" and said that while the death of Fidel Castro is a "historical milestone," it won't impact the day-to-day operations of the Cuban government unless our government pushes for reforms. "… practically, since about 2006, Fidel Castro has not run the day to day affairs of Cuba," said Senator Rubio. "So he's kind of been around, you know, as a figure behind the scenes, writing articles and columns and perhaps influencing and acting as the conscious of the revolution, even though he himself has no conscious. But the bottom line is that, as far as the practical day to day affairs, that transition happened about a decade ago. And so is his death is a historical milestone. And I imagine a psychological one for a lot of people, but from a practical standpoint, Cuba today is governed exactly the same way as it was 48 hours ago." On Raul Castro, who has governed the past decade, Senator Rubio said, "His number one interest is to make permanent this system of government. Because they have an extended family and friends, who depend on the system of government for their

HO HUM ABOUT HOMICIDES In his November police report to the Pensacola City Council, Chief David Alexander said that overall crime has reduced about 30 percent from 2015. He only briefly mentioned the rise in homicides. Referring to the slides on an overhead screen, he said, "You see in the categories a wave of violent crimes. Last year, at this time we didn't have a homicide in October. This year we did. You can see a lot of the violent crimes have gone down in some areas. Then in some that they're slightly up." The October homicide was the seventh for the city this year, which ties the 2012 total that earned the city the moniker as one of the most dangerous small cities in the nation. "I have to say with the violent crimes we really don't have, other than having an officer placed in everyone's home, there's not a whole lot of things that you can do to really control and mitigate issues like homicides," said Chief Alexander. He added, "Those are some things they have to consider when you're looking at issues like homicide." In 2012, when the City was experiencing a rise in homicides and other violent crimes, then-Police Chief Chip Simmons took a more proactive stance against violent crimes, murders, and gun violence. He called a press conference to announce he would saturate city neighborhoods with uniformed officers in an attempt to halt gun violence. Mayor Ashton Hayward was at the press conference and voiced support for Simmons' plan. "The last thing we want is people getting shot at, much less killed," said Mayor Hayward. "We're gonna patrol every neighborhood. Every neighborhood deserves the same amount of policing, and that's what we're gonna do." Violent crimes did drop the following year. The number of murders dropped from seven to three. Aggravated assaults dropped from 347 to 290. {in}

“There's not a whole lot of things that you can do to really control and mitigate issues like homicides.” Chief David Alexander

December 1, 2016

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HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS by Jennifer Leigh

December 1, 2016

very holiday season, it's important to spread a little cheerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and hopeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to those less fortunate. This year is no different. Something as simple as a plate of food or a children's toy gift-wrapped in bright,

shiny paper can make all the difference to someone in need. And it's no surprise that giving back makes you feel pretty great, too. While there's no wrong way to support your community, here are a few ideas to make the days merry and bright.

GO AND DO

•POP UP POTTERY PALOOZA Celebrate 10 years of Manna Food Pantries' popular fundraiser, "Pick a Bowl" and "Fill A Bowl" by picking out some pottery at First City Art Center. Ticket holders will be able to pick out a handcrafted bowl from the IMPACT 100 Ceramics Studio to take home. There will also a wide selection of handcrafted pieces to purchase. Stay and enjoy the evening with food, drinks, music, and live demonstrations. WHEN: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 WHERE: First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. COST: $30 per person DETAILS: mannafoodpantries.org

•ROTARY TREE OF REMEMBRANCE

The Rotary Tree of Remembrance is a community-wide tribute to honor loved ones and support local charities. Beginning Dec. 4, friends and family members have the op-

portunity to place a ribbon with the name of a loved one and a special message on the Tree of Remembrance after making a donation. The tree will be on display at the Cordova Mall through December 24. Donations will be divided among local charities, including Gulf Coast Kid's House, The Children's Hospital at Sacred Heart, Covenant Hospice, Simon Charitable Foundation, and Rotary Charities. After the holidays on Jan. 4 at 10:30 a.m., Rotary volunteers will gather the ribbons for display during a service at the Sacred Heart Hospital conference center where checks will be presented. WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4-Saturday, Dec. 24 WHERE: Cordova Mall, 5100 N. 9th Ave. COST: Donation only DETAILS: facebook.com/rotarytreeofremembrancepensacola

•TREE OF LIGHTS

What's more cheery than watching twinkling lights and sipping hot cocoa? The answer is nothing. The Arc Gateway will

be hosting their 17th Annual Tree of Lights holiday celebration on Dec. 15. Go online and place a donation and have your loved one help "light up the way." Enjoy special performances by the Pensacola Children's Chorus Ambassador Choir and The Arc Gateway Choir. Come early and shop for holiday poinsettias and original artwork. WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15 WHERE: Pollak Training Center, 1000 E. Fairfield Dr. DETAILS: arc-gateway.org

•UNITED MINISTRIES CHRISTMAS HONORARIUM OPEN HOUSE

On Friday, December 16, United Ministries will be open to receive honorariums and memorials made on behalf of loved ones. There will also be refreshments such as cider and coffee. United Ministries is a local nonprofit serving families who are just one crisis away from poverty. Through counseling, job coaching and even just paying a utility bill, United Ministries helps keep families in their homes and off the streets. Your donations will keep this organization going. WHEN: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 WHERE: United Ministries, 257 E. Lee St. DETAILS: united-ministries.com

•WATERFRONT RESCUE MISSION MEAL TICKET CAMPAIGN

Help feed the homeless by purchasing a bright red meal ticket for $1 or more when you visit the Waterfront Rescue Mission Bargain Centers. Proceeds from the campaign are used to provide thousands of traditional Christmas dinners for the local homeless individuals. This year, the more you give, the more you receive as each donation qualifies you to earn a #hopefortheholidays loyalty card. Each time you donate, you're closer to earning a $5 Waterfront Rescue Mission gift card. You can also support the mission by donating gentlyused goods to the nearest bargain center or purchasing gift cards for the holiday season for your favorite thrift store addict. WHEN: Now through Saturday, Dec. 31 WHERE: Milton Bargain Center, 4467 Avalon Blvd. Pensacola Bargain Center, 2125 W. Fairfield Dr. DETAILS: waterfrontbargaincenters.org

SPOTS TO SHOP •FESTIVE PLANTS

Head to Arc Gateway for your holiday décor. Poinsettias and Frasier Fir Christmas trees are available from the green thumbs at Arc Gateway. If you need more shopping ideas, look to the Dove Gift Shop for more homemade gifts. All proceeds support programs and services at Arc Gateway. DETAILS: arc-gateway.org

• FURRY FRIENDS

If you're thinking of giving someone a squeezable puppy or a sweet kitty for Christmas, make sure of two things. First, that the recipient is ready to care for an animal, and second, that the animal comes from a local shelter. Some of our favorite local shelters include Pensacola Humane Society and Hotel for Dogs & Cats. Also, don't forget about the Escambia County Animal Shelter, which helps free up space at local shelters and vet businesses. DETAILS: pensacolahumane.org myescambia.com/our-services/animal-services h4dc.org

•SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP

The Sisterhood Gift Shop at Temple Beth El carries all kinds of seasonal and Shabbat items including decorations, jewelry, toys, and candles. All profits from the store go toward youth programs and the mitzvah caring program. (A note to Gentiles: mitzvah is a good deed done from religious duty.) The Sisterhood Gift Shop is open through the week. DETAILS: templebethelofpensacola.org

•WINTER SALE AT THE GEM

It's totally OK to get excited about giving gifts to everyone on your list. And when your gifts help support local charities, it's even better. The Gem is a donation-based, volunteer-run shop that supports Covenant Care. Stop by Dec. 9 through Dec. 11, to find all kinds of treasures during their Winter Sale. Members get a special sneak peak of the goods on Dec. 7 from 5-8 p.m. DETAILS: choosecovenant.org/event/the-gem

Marital and Family Law 127 Palafox Place Suite 100 | Pensacola, Florida | 466-3115

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FOR THE KIDS

One of the easiest, and fun, things you can do to help others around the holidays involves toys. Next time you're out shopping, pick up a toy and drop it off at one of these non-profits.

•GULF COAST KID'S HOUSE

GCKH is a child advocacy center combining all of the resources and professionals under one roof for the intervention, investigation, and prosecution of child abuse cases in Escambia County. Drop off: Through Friday, Dec. 9 at 3401 N. 12th Ave.

•FAMILIES FIRST NETWORK

FFN partners with Department of Children and Families to provide foster care and related services with network partners. FFN's primary goal is to establish safety and provide support for abused and neglected children in Northwest Florida. Drop off: 1221 W. Lakeview Ave.

•FAVORHOUSE OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

FavorHouse is a domestic violence center serving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, providing immediate assistance and long-term help for victims of abuse. Drop off: 2001 Blount St.

•RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

Ronald McDonald House is a home-awayfrom-home for families who travel to Pensacola to receive critical medical treatment for their children. Since opening in 1984, the local charity has served over 10,000 families. You can deliver meals to the family or toys to kids. Drop off: 5200 Bayou Blvd.

•CHILDREN'S HOME SOCIETY

Levin Rinke Realty, along with Joy For the Beach in association with the Children's Home Society, is also hosting a holiday toy drive. To get involved, you can choose a child from the Levin Rinke Realty Christmas tree at their Portofino Office (2nd Floor), 10 Portofino Dr.

FOOD FOR ALL

You don't have to be a master chef to feed a family. You don't even have to cook at all. Donate non-perishables or monetary donations to these organizations to keep bellies full this holiday season.

OTHER WAYS TO GIVE THIS HOLIDAY

257 E Lee St. Ste. A

•GIVE THE GIFT OF TIME Bring a friend and volunteer at a local soup kitchen like Waterfront Rescue Mission or Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen. Interact with your community and provide a hearty meal with a smile.

402 W. Cervantes St. 470-9111

•AN HONORARY GIFT In lieu of store-

• Manna Food Bank 116 E. Gonzalez St.

• Bay Area Food Bank Panhandle Branch 5709 Industrial Blvd., Milton

• Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen • Appetite for Life

bought gifts, make a donation in honor of your friend towards a charity they care about. Most organizations will send a certificate to the honorary donor as a nice keepsake.

OUT WITH THE OLD When the holidays are over, and you're putting away all the new things, take a look around your home and donate your gently-used items that you're no longer using. Thrift stores like Waterfront Rescue Mission rely on thrift store funds to help those in need. {in}

When your life is affected by autism, you can feel lost, helpless, and alone. But, you’re not. Autism Pensacola will help you find the support, strength and answers you need to breakthrough.

Less uncertainty. More answers.

Together, we’ll connect the pieces.

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WEEK OF DECEMBER 1-8

Arts & Entertainment art, film, music, stage, books and other signs of civilization...

Hey, Paula by Jennifer Leigh

Wednesday. I remember once I was writing Stuff," she worked as political corresponmy story in the middle of the show." dent for "The Tonight Show" during the Making people laugh in times of worry 1992 presidential election. and uncertainty isn't easy. Poundstone But the comic said she didn't start didn't return to "Wait Wait" until Nov. 19 watching the news until she was 23. She but said she didn't know if she'd be ready to was staying with Dr. Timothy Leary, a Bevjoke about the 45th president. Listeners of the erly Hills-based psychologist, and writer show were probably relieved to hear that she known for advocating LSD experimentawas able to make light of the election saying tion. While she was napping in between Donald Trump's cabinet selection may be sets at the Hollywood Improv, Leary would "harkening to his beauty contest days." wake Poundstone up letting her know the "As if maybe some of the whole thing news was on. will come down to, you know, the bathing "I didn't watch the news, I thought starting to watch it then would be like com- suit competition," she said. ing in during the middle of a movie," she said. But she did sit down and watched—and Leary filled her in on the parts she missed. "I remember it was during the time of apartheid in South Africa... I became fascinated," she said. That fascination for world news and current events carried over into her comedy. Poundstone, a Democrat, says her shows are for everyone, but generally "conservative people aren't into me." "Well that's why Chris Christie was "Before the election, I was doing Trump out," joked fellow "Wait Wait...Don't Tell jokes, and I have to say to crowds, ‘If you're Me" panelist Roxanne Roberts. happy to be a Trump supporter, bear with No matter who is in the crowd or what me.' We still have a lot in common we can the gig is, Poundstone says doing stand-up laugh about." is her own personal "happy time." Beyond politics, Poundstone also likes "It's when people come together to as a to talk about cats. And she has plenty of group to laugh," she said. "It's healing. I like to material with 14 rescues at home. say I'm in the endorphin-producing industry." "It's lots and lots of cleaning. Some petAs a young adult, Poundstone moved ting, too," she said. from Massachusetts to Florida to work It's a group effort caring for the cats. at Walt Disney World and be "one of the She even retained her children's nanny to bears in the parades." help with the job, which requires a slightly She never did become a bear, but she different set of chores. did end up with her dream job. "My kids rarely pooped on the floor," "I often worry than I'm going to be like she joked. Tony Bennett and keep working into my Many folks who head to Saenger 90s," she said. "But this is the greatest job Theatre to see Poundstone on Dec. 2 are in the entire world." {in} likely fans of "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me," where she is a regular panelist. The panelist commentary is completely unscripted, she said, except for the "Bluff The Listener" segment in which the panelists share a weird WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 story from the news, only one of WHERE: Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox which is true. COST: $38-$48 "We have to write the stories... DETAILS: pensacolasaenger.com it kind of has a homework feel to it," she said. "They give us the real story and an umbrella theme on

“I often worry than I'm going to be like Tony Bennett and keep working into my 90s. But this is the greatest job in the entire world.” Paula Poundstone

Paula Poundstone / Photo by Michael Schwartz When you tune into WWUF 88.1 on a Saturday afternoon to listen to NPR's "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me" and hear Paula Poundstone on the panel you know it's going to be a good day. But after 37 years, Poundstone has done more than bluff listeners. She's traveled all over in her colorful suits and ties, telling jokes about everything from politics to the world's addiction to electronics to her 14 cats. She'll be in Pensacola this week, but, to be honest, she can't remember if she's been here before. She recalls one show she did some time ago and couldn't find the venue. When she walked inside, she saw not one, not two, but three signed 8x10s of her hanging on the wall. "I have a terrible confession to make," she said. "I don't really see that much of the cities I visit. It all depends on where the airport is and how awake I am." This interview took place just two days after the Presidential election, while Poundstone was on her way to Disneyland with December 1, 2016

one of her daughters. Like many Americans, she was shocked with the results. "I haven't sorted it out in my head yet," she said. "He (Donald Trump) didn't just say things about his opponent, but about us. This has been very different from any other election. My hope is he's the greatest president ever... stranger things have happened." She's been one of many public figures to follow the election and crack jokes about Trump pretty much from the beginning of the long election cycle. You can continue to read her political commentary on her Twitter feed (@paulapoundstone). "You can't help yourself," she said in an October interview with GayRVA. "I have found where on the days Trump doesn't say something absolutely horrible; I'm a little down. I feel a little directionless. I get a bit of a dopamine hit from each of his odd transgressions." Poundstone started her stand-up comedy career in Boston in the early 1980s and traveled around the country stopping at comedy clubs. After a few breaks including an HBO special called "Cats, Cops and

PAULA POUNDSTONE

T:2.1” S:1.85”

calendar

Hangout Music Fest Announces 2017 Lineup

Qualify and switch to America’s Fastest 4G LTE Network. Get T-Mobile® service with a discount of at least $10 a month.

Plan includes: • Unlimited Talk • No Annual Service Contract • $19.99/month before Lifeline discount Are you eligible?

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T:5.6”

B:5.6”

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See if you qualify and learn how to apply at www.T-Mobile.com/lifeline or call 1-800-937-8997. Discounted wireless service is provided under the Lifeline assistance program. Lifeline is a government assistance program that provides only eligible consumers with discounted service that is nontransferable and is available for only one line per household. A household is defined, for purposes of the Lifeline program, as any individual or group of individuals living at the same address that share income and expenses. T-Mobile offers Lifeline service only in areas where the company has Eligible Telecommunications Carrier status. You may find more information about Lifeline and other wireless services available from T-Mobile USA, Inc. at www.T-Mobile.com. Limited time offer; subject to change. Taxes and fees additional. Unlimited talk feature for direct U.S. communications between 2 people; others (e.g. conference & chat lines, etc.) may cost extra. Domestic only unless otherwise specified. Capable device required for LTE speeds. Coverage not available in some areas. Network Management: Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or significant roaming. See brochures and Terms and Conditions (including arbitration provision) at www.T-Mobile.com for additional information. T-Mobile and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. © 2016 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

Mech Trim: 2.1” x 5.6” Mech Live: 1.85” x 5.35” Mech Bleed: None

al_2_1x5_6.indd

esk Nor, Grotesk Fet)

Christmas came early for Gulf Coast music fans—Hangout Music Fest announced it’s 2017 lineup. And it might just be their biggest and best ever. Headliners include Mumford & Sons, Twenty One Pilots, Frank Ocean, Chance The Rapper, Major Lazer, Weezer, and MGMT. Three day tickets go on-sale Thursday, December 1 at 11 a.m. CST and general admission are $249 for a limited Finalknow Trim: they 2.1”tend x 5.6” time. You to sell out, so Final act Live: 1.85” 5.35” you better fast if youxwant to go. Final Bleed: 2.1”

COMPLETE ALPHABETICAL LINEUP*

x 5.6”

HANGOUT MUSIC FEST 2017

WHEN: Friday, May 19—Sunday, May 21 WHERE: Gulf Shores, AL TICKETS: Three day GA/VIP/SUPER VIP tickets go on-sale Thursday Dec. 1 DETAILS: hangoutmusicfest.com 11-9-2016 5:41 PM

THURSDAY 12.1

WORK ON FLORIDA TRAIL 8 a.m. Regular meet up of Western Gate Florida Trail Association to work on National Scenic Trail and side trail. Meet at Blackwater River Forestry Center, 11650 Munson Highway. meetup. com/ftawesterngate LA LECHE LEAGUE 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org WINE TASTING AT AWM 5 p.m. Aragon Wine Market, 27 S. 9th Ave. aragonwinemarket.com ATLAS BEVERAGE CLASS 5 and 7 p.m. $20 per 616 1

888 A$AP Ferg Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness Arizona Band Of Horses Barns Courtney Bassh Bishop Briggs Bob Moses Cash Cash Chance The Rapper Charli XCX Cheat Codes Cobi Coin Dillon Francis DJ Snake Foreign Air Frances

Frank Ocean Franz Ferdinand Gryffin Joseph Kap Slap Kungs Lany Le Youth Lewis Del Mar Lil Yachty Local Natives Louis The Child LP Lukas Graham Mac DeMarco Magic! Major Lazer Marshmello Matoma MGMT Mondo Cozmo Mumford & Sons Mutemath NGHTMRE Nora En Pure

person. Atlas Oyster House, 600 Barracks St. greatsouthernrestaurants.com THE MOVEMENT 7 p.m. $12-$15. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com

FRIDAY 12.2

NATURAL GARDEN REMEDIES 10-11 a.m.

Free. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org 3-D PRINTING TRUNK SHOW 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Susan Campbell Jewelry is hosting an interactive Trunk Show with designer Sarah Graham. The Trunk Show is currently in progress with over 50 pieces on display.

Pardison Fontaine PVRIS Rainbow Kitten Surprise Rüfüs Du Sol Russ Shaggy Shaun Frank Sigur Ros Snakehips The Head And The Heart The Hunna The Strumbellas The Suffers Tkay Maidza Tory Lanez Towkio Twenty One Pilots Warpaint Weezer White Reaper Young The Giant (*As of Tuesday, Nov. 29)

Susan Campbell Jewelry, 420 S. Palafox WINE TASTING 5-7 p.m. Free. City Grocery, 2050 N. 12th Ave. HAPPY HOUR COOK OUTS 5 p.m. Drink specials, free cookout. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com FRIENDS OF THE OPERA ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY 5-8 p.m. For friends at the Monte-

verdi level and up. Pensacola Opera Center, 75 S. Tarragona St. pensacolaopera.com VINYASA YOGA FLOW 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org DATE NIGHT DANCING 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn inweekly.net

Escambia County ...

We have a choice OPTION 1: STAY THE SAME

OPTION 2: CHANGE • Higher Wages • Better Jobs

• Lower Wages • Fewer Jobs

• Less Teenage Pregnancies • Less Crime

• More Teenage Pregnancies • More Crime

LET’S CHOOSE CHANGE

Build a Brain Build a Life Build a Community

reating an early learning city is so much more than a name. It means that everyone in the community sees each child as their child. It means every child has the very best chance to reach their human potential. It means parents, relatives, friends, businesses, government, media, environment, healthcare, school and early childhood providers all work together to provide learning opportunities. The Studer Community Institute looks forward to helping facilitate and being part of the community solution to ensure every child is ready for kindergarten. In the coming weeks the steps to building America’s first early learning city will be laid out. Let’s all work together on the largest and most important construction project in the history of this area: Making sure every child is ready for kindergarten.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS • Blaise Adams • Cindi Bear Bonner • Becca Boles • Patrick Elebash • Randy Hammer • Chad Henderson • Gail Husbands • Stacy Keller Williams • Jerry Maygarden December 1, 2016

• Jean Pierre N’dione • Lisa Nellessen-Lara • Mort O’Sullivan III • Janet Pilcher • Scott Remingtion • Martha Saunders • Julie Sheppard • Josh Sitton

/StuderInstitute /StuderInstitute WEBSITE Studeri.org EMAIL Info@Studeri.org

VISION To make the Pensacola Metro community the greatest place to live in the world.

MISSION To improve the quality of life for people in the Pensacola Metro community. 17

calendar the basics of several ballroom and country dance styles. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. $10. dancecraftfl.com OPEN MIC 7-11 p.m. Single Fin Cafe, 380 N. 9th Ave. facebook.com/singlefincafe ICE FLYERS VS. MISSISSIPPI RIVERKINGS 7:05 p.m. $15-$29. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. pensacolabaycenter.com A CHRISTMAS CAROL — A GHOST STORY OF CHRISTMAS 7:30 p.m. $5-$16. Free for UWF

students. University of West Florida, 11000 University Parkway. uwf.edu

GULF COAST CHORALE: THAT’S CHRISTMAS TO ME 7:30 p.m. $5-$10. Cokesbury Method-

ist Church, 5725 N. Ninth Ave. gulfcoastchorale.org KRISTY LEE 8 p.m. $12-$15. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com PAULA POUNDSTONE 8 p.m. $38-$48. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. pensacolasaenger.com PENSACOLA SEANCE 8:30 p.m. $40-$50. Local psychic medium Ericka Boussarhane, and Bellview Paranormal Society. Go Retro, 610 N. Spring St. For tickets, visit goretro.us AFTER GAME SKATE 9:30 p.m. $9-$12. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. pensacolabaycenter.com

SANTA PHOTOS 2-4 p.m. Woerner Land-

SATURDAY 12.3

SANTA ROSA FARMERS MARKET 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Fresh local produce, honey, baked goods and live music. Pace Presbyterian Church, Woodbine Road, Pace. CLEAN UP WITH OCEAN HOUR 8:45 a.m. All supplies are provided. Meet at Naval Live Oaks Headquarters on Highway 98 about two miles east of Gulf Breeze on the right. For more information, contact oceanhourfl@gmail.com. PALAFOX MARKET 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art and antiques are just a few of the items offered at the weekly Palafox Market. Items originate directly from participating vendors, including dozens of local farmers, home gardeners and area artists. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza, N. Palafox. palafoxmarket.com COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS 9 a.m.-2 p.m. "Eat with the Seasons." Palafox Market. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza, N. Palafox. palafoxmarket.com PET ADOPTION 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Woerner Landscape and Pet Supply, 1332 Creighton Rd. woernerlandscape.com/locations/pensacola BIKE PENSACOLA DECEMBER SLOW RIDE 10 a.m. Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA, 165 E. Intendencia St. DECK THE HALLS 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Lunch and traditional carols from Pensacola Opera. Jackson’s Steakhouse, 400 S. Palafox. greatsouthernrestaurants.com 3-D PRINTING TRUNK SHOW 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Susan Campbell Jewelry is hosting an interactive Trunk Show with designer Sarah Graham. The Trunk Show is currently in progress with over 50 pieces on display. Susan Campbell Jewelry, 420 S. Palafox DEMO DAY AT SO GOURMET 11 a.m.-3 p.m. So Gourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. sogourmetpensacola.com FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org WILDLIFE SANCTUARY OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE 12-3:30

p.m. Bake sale and supply drive. 105 North S St. pensacolawildlife.com PUBLIC ICE SKATE 1:30, 3 and 4:30 p.m. $9$12. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. pensacolabaycenter.com

Yelawolf

scape and Pet Supply, 1332 Creighton Rd. woernerlandscape.com/locations/pensacola SANTA PUB CRAWL 4-11 p.m. O’Riley’s Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox. orileyspub.com WINTERFEST PERFORMANCE TROLLEY TOURS

5-9 p.m. $7-$12. Old Courthouse, 223 S. Palafox. pensacolawinterfest.org DAVID SHAW OF THE REVIVALISTS 7 p.m. $25$75. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com HANDEL’S MESSIAH 7:30 p.m. $30-$35. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. pensacolasaenger.com A CHRISTMAS CAROL — A GHOST STORY OF CHRISTMAS 7:30 p.m. $5-$16. Free for UWF

students. University of West Florida, 11000 University Parkway. uwf.edu DANCE PARTY 8-midnight. Strictly ballroom. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. $10. dancecraftfl.com IMPROVABLE CAUSE 10:30 p.m. $10. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. pensacolalittletheatre.com

SUNDAY 12.4

WAKE UP HIKE 7 a.m. Meet at Bay Bluffs Park, Scenic Highway at Summit Ave., for a brisk one to two-hour walk with brunch to follow at an area restaurant. PUBLIC ICE SKATE 1:30, 3 and 4:30 p.m. $9-$12. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. pensacolabaycenter.com YELAWOLF: TRIAL BY FIRE TOUR 7 p.m. $25-$99. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com

MONDAY 12.5

SEED TO TABLE COOKING WITH CAT 11:30-1:30 p.m. Free. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org SEVILLE QUARTER MILERS 5:30 p.m. Runners meet in front of Seville Quarter for a run around downtown Pensacola. Free pasta and drink specials after the run at Fast Eddie's. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com RESTORATIVE PILATES 5:30-6:20 p.m. Free. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org JOY FOR THE BEACH 7 p.m. Children’s Home Society Toy Drive. Holy Spirit Church, 10650 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola Beach.

TUESDAY 12.6

COMPLEMENTARY WINE TASTING 5-7 p.m.

SoGourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. sogourmetpensacola.com HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE 5:30 p.m. $100. Tour of PSC campus. Food provided. Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. foundation. pensacolastate.edu/holiday-experience FUNKY YOGA FLOW 6-7 p.m. Free. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org DANCE LESSONS 6:30 p.m. Country, Swing, and Ballroom. Professional partner dance instruction for all skill levels. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. $10. dancecraftfl.com JOY FOR THE BEACH 7 p.m. Children’s Home Society Toy Drive. Our Lady of Assumption, 920 Via Deluna Dr. MEDITATION /PRANIC HEALING 7:15-8:30 p.m. Free. Ever'man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org TUNESDAY SOUND CAFE 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and tunes from the baby grand piano. Pensacola Library lobby, 239 North Spring St.

WEDNESDAY 12.7

LEAPS 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free. Ever’man

Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org VINO MAGNIFICO 5:30 p.m. $10. V. Paul's Italian Ristorante, 29 S. Palafox. WATERBOYZ SLOW SKATE 6-7 p.m. Every Wednesday. Skate starts and ends at Waterboyz, 380 N. 9th Ave. waterboyz.com RESTORATIVE YOGA 6-7 p.m. Free. Ever'man. 327 W. Garden St. everman.org DANCE LESSONS 6:30 p.m. West Coast Swing. Professional partner dance instruction for all skill levels. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. $10. dancecraftfl.com MEDITATION 7:15-8:30 p.m. Free. Ever'man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org DANCE PARTY 8-10 p.m. A mix of swing, country, and ballroom music for partner dancing on the best wood dance floor in the area. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. $10. dancecraftfl.com for more listings visit inweekly.net

FOREVER DIETING? TIME TO CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT FOOD. A LUMINOUS LIFE HYPNOTHERAPY

SUSAN DUNLOP, MA, CHT

INTERNATIONALLY CERTIFIED HYPNOTHERAPIST

850-346-7865 EAST HILL

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news of the weird EVEN BAKING SODA IS DANGEROUS Almost all law enforcement agencies in America use the Scott Reagent field test when they discover powder that looks like cocaine, but the several agencies that have actually conducted tests for "false positives" say they happen up to half the time. In October, the latest victims (husbandand-wife truck drivers with spotless records and Pentagon clearances) were finally released after 75 days in jail awaiting trial—for baking soda that tested "positive" three times by Arkansas troopers (but, eventually, "negative" by a state crime lab). (Why do police love the test? It costs $2.) The truck drivers had to struggle to get their truck back and are still fighting to be re-cleared to drive military explosives. UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT Activists told Vice Media in November that 100,000 people worldwide identify as "ecosexuals," ranging from those who campaign for "sustainable"-ingredient sex toys to those who claim to have intercourse with trees (but sanding the bark for comfort might provoke concern about being "abusive"). A University of Nevada, Las Vegas professor studies the phenomenon and knows, for example, of humans who "marry" the Earth or prefer sex while rolling in potting soil or under a waterfall. On one "arborphilia" support blog, a female poster regretted her choice to have "convenient" sex with the sycamore outside her bedroom window instead of the sturdy redwood she actually covets. (Yes, some "mainstream" environmentalists somehow are not completely supportive.) THE CONTINUING CRISIS If You See Something, Say Something: Ricky Berry and his roommate walked in to a CVS store in Richmond, Virginia, in November to ask if it carried sliced cheese but were told no. Minutes later, all the employees walked to the back of the store, hid in a locked room, and called the police. Berry and pal, and a third customer (with a toothache and desperately needing Orajel), were bewildered by the empty store until a Richmond police officer arrived. After observing that the three customers appeared nonthreatening, he mused along with Berry that "this is how weird, apocalyptic movies start." WRICTV reported later that the employee who panicked and called police will "possibly" need retraining. QUESTIONABLE JUDGMENTS The Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, Kansas, got the message in November and shut down its "world's tallest waterslide" (17 stories; riders reaching speeds of 60 mph) after the neck-injury death of a 10-year-old rider in August. But comparably altitudeobsessed architects in Tokyo said in November that they were moving ahead with

by Chuck Shepherd

proposals for "Next Tokyo 2045" to include a one-mile-high residential complex (twice as tall as the currently highest skyscraper). A spokesperson for principal architects Kohn Pedersen Fox said he realizes that coastal Tokyo, currently in earthquake, typhoon and tsunami zones, would present a climate-change challenge (and especially since the building would be on land once reclaimed from Tokyo Bay). IRONIES (1) San Diego police officer Christine Garcia, who identifies as transgender, was turned away in November as she attempted to enter the Transgender Day of Remembrance at the city's LGBT Community Center—because organizers thought the sight of a police uniform might upset some people. (Garcia herself was one of the event's organizers.) (2) Chick Magnet: Gary Zerola was arraigned in Boston in November on two counts of rape. He is a defense lawyer, former prosecutor, one-time "Most Eligible Bachelor" winner, and was a finalist in the first season of ABC-TV's "The Bachelor." He was also accused of two counts of rape in 2006 (but acquitted at trial) and another in 2007 (but the charge was dropped). PERSPECTIVE It was only a quarter-million-dollar grant by the National Institutes of Health, but what it bought, according to budget scrutiny by The Washington Free Beacon in November, was the development of a multiplayer computer game (inevitably competing for attention in an overstuffed commercial market) hoping to teach good reproductive health habits. "Caduceus Quest" employs role-playing as "doctors, policymakers, researchers, youth advocates" and others to "solve medical mysteries and epidemiologic crises." The target, according to the University of Chicago grant proposal, is African-American and Latino teenagers around Chicago. LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINALS Recurring Themes: (1) Gwinnett, Georgia, police know exactly who they like for the Nov. 3 armed robbery of an Exxon convenience store: Mr. Quaris Holland, 29. That's because the manager told police Holland had been coming by as a customer "every single day" for "six months." He's still at large. (2) I Have a Gub (sic): The FBI was offering a reward for tips on their suspect in heists at four Boston-area banks in November. Though the man has eluded them so far, at least one issue plagues him: Each of his holdup notes announces that this is a "robery." {in}

Send your weird news to Chuck Shepherd, P.O. Box 18737, Tampa, Fla., 33679 or weirdnews@earthlink.net, or go to newsoftheweird.com December 1, 2016

A vibrant community needs young professionals.

It’s their energy, enthusiasm and creativity that can lift a city to new heights. We need your help in identifying the 2017 Rising Stars—a.k.a. adults under the age 35 that are truly making a difference in the community and who you believe are destined to build a better Pensacola.

Requirements: 1. Must be younger than 35 years old as of Dec. 31, 2016. 2. Must work, live or go to school in Escambia and/or Santa Rosa counties. 3. Anyone who has already been an Inweekly Rising Star is not eligible. (Sorry, we need to spread around the accolades.) How to nominate: Send nominee’s name, address, and email plus a brief statement describing why you believe that person is a Rising Star to rick@inweekly.net. Please put “Rising Star” in the subject line. All nominations must be received by Monday, Dec. 12. Nominees will be contacted for more detailed information, which will be reviewed by a panel of community leaders.

The Rising Star finalists will be published in our Jan. 26 issue. 19

Independent News | December 1, 2016 | inweekly.net