Inweekly Dec. 10 2020 Issue

'tis the

for

Independent News | December 10, 2020 | Volume 21 | Number 50

FREE â–ś

winners & losers

outtakes

4

5

news 6

Every day, people are helping out.

cover story

buzz 8

10

publisher Rick Outzen

graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk

contact us info@inweekly.net

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Jeremy Morrison, C.S. Satterwhite

a&e 13

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. © 2018 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

not your average* board certified civil trial attorney

*Board Certification by the Florida Bar Association and the National Board Of Trial Advocacy.

Statistical information current as of April 2020.

zarzaurlaw.com 22

•

(855)hirejoe

•

pensacola, fl inweekly.net

Holiday Deals are Best at Bodacious

This is the perfect holiday gift for the foodie in your life!

15% off NEW Bodacious Bottle Club subscription THE BODACIOUS BOTTLE CLUB Join our new Bodacious Bottle Club to receive 5 of our mini bottles every quarter for a whole year. Our staff will be hand-selecting their favorite pairings and sharing their favorite recipes with each flavor of oil and vinegar. You’ll also receive exclusive discounts for future online purchases!

And shipping is free! Use code BOTTLECLUB at checkout to receive 15% off your subscription.

Buy 4 Olive Oils and/or Balsamics

and get 1 Small Oil or Vinegar for FREE

Free Shipping over $100 in-store and online

Spend $50, get $10 on gift cards

(available at all Bodacious locations)

DOWNTOWN PENSACOL A | 407 SOUTH PAL AFOX STREET | BODACIOUSSHOPS.COM

December 10, 2020

BOD0625 INW 12/10 Full Page.indd 1

3

12/2/20 12:43 PM

winners & losers

Doug Broxson / flsenate.gov

winners

DOUG BROXSON The state senator for Escambia and Santa Rosa counties and part of Okaloosa County has been appointed the chairman of the Florida Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Education and vice chairman of the Banking and Finance Committee. Broxson is serving his second term in the Florida Senate.

EMILY LEY Pensacola Little Theatre received a generous donation of books by Pensacola local and author Emily Ley and her publisher, Thomas Nelson. Ley donated 500 children's books to the theatre for its holiday giving campaign, sending gifts to children in the community free of charge and confidentially to help spread joy this holiday season.

SANTA ROSA EDUCATION FOUNDATION Last month, the foundation awarded 36

Teacher Grants totaling $36,000 to Santa Rosa public educators. SREF, in partnership with the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, the Florida Legislature and grant sponsors Navy Federal Credit Union, Gulf Breeze Optimist Club and AppRiver, enables teachers to implement grants that engage students in active learning while increasing student achievement in the areas of Artistic Literacy, Literacy, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education.

PROHEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC The clinic recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. ProHealth owners Danette Krumel and Debbie DuFour created the clinic so their self-pay patients would have access to a health care professional at a reasonable price. They opened ProHealth Medical Clinic in December 2010 on 12th Avenue in East Hill. The last 10 years of business have highlighted the power of persistence through oil spills, political changes, hurricanes and now a pandemic.

FEEDING THE GULF COAST The partnership with Justified Incarcerated Ministries and Pensacola Caring Hearts gave away five tons of food at a drive-thru event at Walnut Hill's Bradberry Park.

PENSACOLA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT United Airlines announced it

will start nonstop service between Denver International Airport and Pensacola International Airport beginning Feb. 13—the first time United Airlines has offered the flight from Pensacola. Flights will be offered on the weekends beginning Feb. 13-Feb. 28 and will switch to daily service in March.

44

losers

ESCAMBIA COUNTY JAIL Eric James Doyle was released from the Escambia County Jail about 12:30 a.m. Saturday.

By 2:30 p.m., an Escambia County news release said he was wanted for aggravated battery. Doyle was being held on charges that included aggravated battery. Escambia County, which operates the jail, did not say if he was released by mistake or is accused of a different crime—which is sadly typical of the county administration this past year.

GOP CONGRESS The Washington Post surveyed all 249 Republicans in the House and Senate last week. Only 25 acknowledged Joe Biden is president-elect. Among the Republicans in the House, 222—90%— wouldn't say Biden won the election. Reps.

Paul Gosar (Ariz.) and Mo Brooks (Ala.) told the newspaper that Donald Trump won. By the way, California certified its electors on Friday, Dec. 4, officially giving Biden the Electoral College majority.

ESCAMBIA DRUG RING The Escambia County Sheriff's Office arrested 17 people on Thursday, Dec. 3, on drug charges after raiding a home near Montclair Elementary School. The Escambia County Sheriff's Office Gun Crime Response Team, Robbery/ Homicide Unit, Narcotics Unit and SWAT team, along with the ATF, Florida Highway Patrol and Pensacola Police Department, served a search warrant at a home in the 4500 block of Florelle Way. Inside the home, law enforcement discovered 12.6 grams of oxycodone, 228.8 grams of ecstasy pills, one gram of heroin, almost half a kilo of cocaine, 3.3 pounds of marijuana, 10 firearms (including four firearms that were reported stolen) and $21,389 in cash, and seven vehicles were seized.

LUNCH PAIL MYTH The myth that Joe

Biden won the election due to luring the working class back to the Democratic Party has been busted. The New York Times reports the exit polls suggest that Joe Biden lost ground among Latino, Black and Asian American voters in 2020 compared with Hillary Clinton's performance in 2016.

However, voters with college degrees flocked to Biden, emerging as the crucial voting bloc in the suburbs. The Democratic Party still has some work to do. inweekly.net

outtakes

By Rick Outzen

HIDING COVID DATA On Thursday, Dec. 3, the South Florida Sun Sentinel unleashed a devastating investigative article showing how Gov. Ron DeSantis and his administration suppressed facts and placed gag orders on public health professionals concerning COVID-19. In other words, the governor placed politics above medical science and public safety.

Owing his election to President Trump, DeSantis acted in lockstep with the commander-in-chief, creating a climate in which citizens scorn masks, ignore CDC guidelines and call the coronavirus a "hoax." Meanwhile, a wave of recent cases has hit the state, shooting the total COVID-19 cases above a million and approaching 20,000 deaths.

After reviewing 4,000 pages of public records and interviewing over 50 people, including scientists, doctors, political leaders, employees of the state health department and other state officials, the newspaper found the Florida Department of Health's county-level spokespeople were ordered in September to stop issuing public statements about COVID-19.

Inweekly had noticed how little the Escambia County's new health department director, Marie Mott, told us about the pandemic this fall. When she appeared before the Escambia County Commission in early November, she only regurgitated the most fundamental data available on the Florida Department of Health's website, saying a lot of words to eat up time but offering few insights into the increases in cases and positivity rates.

Mott droned on about the governor's declaration of a public health emergency and mentioned the Surgeon General's advisory that recommended face coverings, protecting vulnerable populations and limiting the size of social gatherings, without adding the governor was not renewing many of his COVID-19 mandates.

She moved into "safe territory" by shifting to a rise of Hepatitis A, something the governor wouldn't punish her for doing.

"We're really encouraging people to get vaccinated (for Hepatitis A) and also good handwashing to prevent the spread of

that," said Mott, showing a chart. "So you can just kind of see, we've seen a doubling of cases by month since August. And some of your higher-risk groups are IV drug users, homeless individuals."

The commissioners wanted to hear about COVID and pressed the health director to stay on the subject. Commissioner Lumon May said, "There was a spike, I guess on the first of November. Do you have any thought on why we were seeing those spikes?"

Mott replied, "The COVID cases?"

May said, "Yeah, the COVID cases."

Then the health director began her DeSantis dance, bobbing and weaving more than Roy Jones Jr. did in his fight with Mike Tyson.

"That would be speculating for me to try to figure out why, but it is noticeable the case report on the second and on the third were both higher than what we've typically been seeing over the summer," she said. "There has been a lot more congregating in the community, I would say.

So that's a potential thing, but really I would be speculating …"

The commissioner smiled under his facemask and almost laughed. He knew that Mott's agency had been doing contact tracing on all the new COVID cases and knew where the hot spots were in the community, but she would not share the information.

Now we know why. The DeSantis administration had banned her from sharing the data, even when the positivity rating was doubling and hospitalizations were tripling.

The Sun Sentinel found that Alberto Moscoso, the FDOH communications director, had issued an order in late September that state employees who served as county-level spokespeople for the Florida Department of Health to talk about anything but COVID-19.

Instead, they were to talk about flu shots, hearing-loss screenings—anything but the virus, according to the report, which is what Mott has done. The Sun Sentinel couldn't find who told Moscoso to issue the order. He left the department on Nov. 6.

Maybe Mott will be more forthcoming now that the presidential election is over.

The public deserves more information. {in} rick@inweekly.net

She moved into "safe territory" by shifting to a rise of Hepatitis A, something the governor wouldn't punish her for doing.

December 10, 2020

Practicing Since 1974 INJURED? (ALL TYPES OF ACCIDENTS)

ARRESTED? (ALL FEDERAL & STATE COURTS)

WHITE COLLAR CRIMES (HEALTH-CARE FRAUD • DRUG OFFENSES & D.U.I.s)

FREE CONSULTATION ON INJURY / DEATH CASES & CRIMINAL CASES NO RECOVERY - NO FEE / COST ON PERSONAL INJURY & WRONGFUL DEATH CASES

24 HOUR SERVICE

433-9922

304 E. GOVERNMENT STREET

8 LOTS AVAILABLE ALONG LONG STREET IN MILTON Do not miss your chance to build your new home in this convenient location near downtown Milton and Dogwood intersection! Can also be accessed from Glover Ln and Lambeth! Priced to sell!

Call or text Cheryl Young at 850-712-4742 to see today!

SEVILLE SQUARE REALTY, LLC Cheryl Young Licensed Real Estate Broker

308 E. Government St. • Pensacola, Florida 32502

(850) 712-4742

www.sevillesquare.net • cheryl@sevillesquare.net

Licensed in Florida & Alabama 5

A BCC BUG'S LIFE

By Rick Outzen On Tuesday, Dec. 1, Inweekly broke on ricksblog.biz the news someone had hidden an eavesdropping device on the Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building's fourth floor, home to the offices of the county administrator, county commissioners and county attorney. County Administrator Janice Gilley considered the security breach severe enough for her to ask the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to sweep her offices. After FDLE discovered a recording device in a conference room off her office, Gilley asked the commissioners to let FDLE sweep their offices.

The fact that someone secretly recorded the administrator's conversations with commissioners and her senior staff is shocking, considering the fourth floor is probably the most secure floor in the Magaha building. Visitors have to pass through a metal detector and have their bags searched before entering the building.

Once on the fourth floor, the receptionist must release electronic locks before a visitor can go back to an office. Often, the visitor is taken back to an office by a county employee. The fourth floor has cameras and motion detection devices after hours.

Despite the seriousness of the breach, Gilley made no changes to the floor's security after the incident. She has been reluctant to offer many details and didn't even find out FDLE had closed its investigation on Sept. 30 until Inweekly began asking commissioners questions.

Having heard the commissioners' offices had been swept for recording devices in early September, Inweekly first contacted Board of County Commissioners Chairman Robert Bender, who parsed his words and dodged questions about the incident.

Trying to pin him down, Inweekly asked him, "So Janice didn't come to you and say, 'Hey, we found bugs in the offices on the fourth floor?'"

"I would say there is an ongoing investigation," said Bender. "I don't know who's doing it. That's why I said I don't know if it's FDLE. I don't know who's doing it."

He added, "I have not been updated on that in some time, so I don't know where it stands."

Bender later called back to say that a listening device had been found on the fourth floor.

Commission Vice Chairman Jeff Bergosh didn't hesitate to talk about the eavesdropping device. He had been told the device had been found in Gilley's office and that FDLE was doing the investigation.

"We just don't know much because we were not told anything when FDLE was called in," said Bergosh. "You know, it's pretty aggressive. If someone's going to plant a bug in the county administrator's office, there's a lot of conversations that go on in there. And I mean, it's a federal crime."

Bergosh complained that he has been trying to get Gilley to install new locks on his office doors for the past eight weeks.

"I find my door open on a regular basis," he said. He plans to order the new locks himself because, "I can't rely on staff to do it."

Jonathan Owens, the administrative assistant for Commissioner Doug Underhill, had already changed the locks to the District 2 offices, and only he and Underhill have the keys.

"It was just, 'Hey, we're going to have the offices swept,' or, 'We had the offices swept'—I don't remember which one it was," said Owens of Underhill's conversation with Gilley. "I said, 'OK, well, I'm going to have the locks changed. I had the locks changed.'"

He said that neither Underhill nor he had heard anything else about the findings of any investigation. He said, "I think the concern is because all the commissioners meet with the administrator in her office typically, but I got nothing, Rick. I would love to have something, like 'Hey, we found this.'"

Owens isn't even sure an investigation has taken place.

He said, "I haven't even seen an investigation or anybody with a badge in the offi ce."

When Inweekly contacted the county, Laura Coale, the county's director for communications and public information, issued the following statement—"It is extremely disappointing that illegal recording may have occurred on the fourth floor of the Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building.

No one should have to work in an environment where there is a hidden device. We respect the work that FDLE has put into this investigation."

FDLE spokesperson Gretl Plessinger told Inweekly that its investigation had been initiated on Aug. 1, and a hidden recording device was found. However, FDLE investigators were not able to find out much more, and the investigation was closed on Sept. 30.

Gilley later told PNJ reporter Jim Little that she asked FDLE to investigate when details of private conversations became "mainstream" in the public. However, the administrator didn't disclose what information or conversation got out into the "mainstream."

Inweekly had asked Bender about a rumor that he and Gilley were talking about somebody bugging the offices and then, lo and behold, wires were found.

"It was strange; it was just some comments were made, and we were like, 'Either that person was really grasping and went out on a limb and just assumed that.' There was nobody else around," said the chairman. "How would anybody know that?"

At Commissioner Bergosh's virtual "Coffee with the Commissioner" on Dec. 2, Gilley clarified the conversations concerned county business.

"We don't have any top-secret conversations in my office, but there are private, sensitive issues that are discussed," said the administrator. "We have employee issues; we have disciplinary issues; we have union issues … and things like that."

She continued. "They're not top secret.

I'm certainly not building any top-secret nuclear facility or anything like that.

There's nothing related to national security, but there are just sometimes sensitive things. And so that's the part of it that's just … I would hate for someone's personal information to be inappropriately released.

That's the main thing for me."

Bergosh asked Gilley if she had increased security on the fourth floor.

"Well, so what I would say is that we already have pretty strong security in terms of the locks, the coming and going, the access, the recording, things like that," she said. "We do monitor access to the building. We do look at anomalies, late nights, weekends, folks that might be going in and out of places that they wouldn't normally go in and out. Those kinds of things are looked at, but I would say we already have a lot of cameras in the facility."

She added, "But I don't necessarily know that this deems that because, as you know, where there's a will, there's a way.

And I feel like if somebody was interested, I think more security might let our guard down even more."

When the commissioner pointed out how many of the doors require key cards, Gilley said, "We've pulled a report, and we've pulled them before, but you can pull for specific times of the day, specific doors, and you can also for weekends, things like that. The technology, those locks are pretty trackable, and we do maintain those records."

When a viewer commented on Facebook that the device looked like an "inside job," meaning a county employee had to plant it, Bergosh said, "Well, I think it probably pretty much had to be, right? Someone had to have access to your spaces."

Later in the week, two independent sources shared with Inweekly that a "lowtech" device—one capable of audio and video recording—was found in a plant in a common conference room off of Gilley's office.

Inweekly has made a public record request for the FDLE investigation report and will post on Inweekly.net when received. {in}

Adoption • Paternity • Dependency/DCF Hearings Prenuptial Agreements • Postnuptial Agreements Divorce • Child Custody and Timesharing Child Support • Child Support Modifications Alimony • Collaborative Divorce • Divorce Mediation • Pre-Suit Family Law Mediation

127 Palafox Place Suite 100 (850)466-3115 autumnbeckblackledge.com 66

inweekly.net

This face was once masked by pain.

Now, it’s a face that sees the light.

We are a non-profit, faith-centered ministry offering food, addiction recovery services, housing, spiritual guidance and more to Escambia County’s most vulnerable and under-resourced residents.

850.912.8383 • BrightBridgeMinistries.org

December 10, 2020

7

"I hope others who are watching this will be powerfully moved to make the decision to put down their weapons and work with us so we can build a better Pensacola," the mayor said.

A KINDER, GENTLER CRA? The city of

Grover Robinson / Photo courtesy of City of Pensacola

COVID CLIMBS As COVID cases continue to climb in the Northwest Florida region, Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson is getting increasingly concerned.

"Recently, we've seen it take a little bit more of a turn," Robinson said Monday during his press conference. "We're a little bit concerned about what's happening today."

The mayor most closely watches the area's hospitalization rate, which took a dramatic jump to 133 on Monday—"a jump of 20 in a couple of days."

To slow the coronavirus spread, Mayor Robinson again implored the public to practice basic safety precautions, specifically social distancing and mask-wearing.

He pointed to the COVID spike throughout the summer and the community's ability to bring the numbers down.

"We've done it in the past, we've done it by simply wearing masks, and we can do it again," Robinson said.

The city has a mask order in place, but it is limited to public businesses. The order is also blunted by an executive order issued

by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this fall that essentially defanged any local governmental efforts to put COVID-related safety measures in place by taking away the ability to enforce any such actions.

Last week, the mayor said he would reach out to the governor to request that local governments be allowed to respond to COVID in local areas the best way they see fit. He has yet to hear a response.

MOTHERS PLEA FOR PEACE On Thurs-

day, Dec. 3, city officials joined with mothers who have lost their sons to gun violence in urging a "ceasefire."

"It's only been a week today since he's been gone, so it's kind of hard for me to stand here," said LaShunda Dortch, whose son Ke'Avian Sanders was shot and killed at the Platinum Club over Thanksgiving weekend.

88

Dortch, explaining that her son had simply gone out with friends, stood behind a podium in a meeting room at Pensacola City Hall, fighting through tears to speak, broadcasting her pleas for people to stop shooting each other via a Facebook Live video.

"It's crazy; my baby's gone," she sobbed.

"My baby is gone. He was only 19 years old.

Just stop it, please."

Cindy Martin and Rosa Dukes joined Dortch. Both Martin's son, Matthew Sheldon Cox Jr., and Dukes' son, Broderick Johnson, were also killed by gun violence. All three mothers issued a general plea to the people in the community to put an end to the shootings and resist retaliation shootings.

"We've got a lot of retaliation, and that's not the answer," said Martin. "It's really not."

"Think about what you're doing before you pick up that gun," Dukes said.

Pensacola City Councilman Delarian Wiggins joined Mayor Grover Robinson and the mothers at a virtual press conference.

The incoming District 7 representative has barely been on council for a week.

"Ceasefire, ceasefire, ceasefire," Wiggins repeated. "Mothers are hurting. Fathers are hurting. Communities are hurting. It is time for us to come together to resolve some issues."

The councilman noted that it was "tough to stand here and not become emotional and frustrated with a lot of the things that are going on in our community" and urged people to work together to help improve the issue of gun violence.

"I'm asking all of you OGs and people who are relevant in our community, that are being silent in our community, I'm asking you now to stand up and let's start working together to bring an end to this gun violence of our young men," the councilman said.

Mayor Robinson thanked the mothers for speaking about the issue of gun violence and said he had been "powerfully moved" by their comments.

Pensacola's Urban Core Redevelopment Board (UCRB) wants to tackle affordable housing and community policing.

This exploration of a new philosophy was summed up late in a special meeting Wednesday, Dec. 2, when board member Drew Buchanan reflected on the inherent irony in an earlier presentation extolling the ripple effects, such as an increase in property values, of a well-managed CRA. "Those are great for developers," Buchanan said of the economic ripple effects. "It's not great for people who can't afford to live here— you know, we didn't talk about gentrification."

Areas of recent focus for the CRA include working toward waterfront access improvements, specifically with improvements slated for Bruce Beach, as well as the so-called Hashtag streetscape plans for the heart of downtown and, more recently, a public-private partnership streetscape project for what developers have christened the East Garden District and envision as the next mixed-use bonanza.

In contrast to these economic and development-oriented efforts, the UCRB is recommending that focuses be shifted onto a more societal-centric path. For example, the CRA has already signed onto municipal efforts to realize 500 units of affordable housing within five years, but Buchanan suggested that perhaps the CRA should consider putting some "real skin in the game" and offer up one of its downtown parking lots to be developed into dense, multi-story affordable housing— "like Southtowne but more affordable."

"We're not going to get it done with ones and twosies," he said with an eye toward the city's 500-units goal. Buchanan suggested that the CRA should act aggressively to facilitate the development of affordable housing within the urban core.

"I want the CRA to pay for these projects," he said, "not just the land, but the development also."

Pensacola City Councilwoman Ann Hill agreed that the CRA could become more engaged in the affordable housing discussion and pointed toward a potential source of some funding—an $18 million bond currently earmarked for street and waterfront connectivity improvements.

"Maybe we need to redirect some of that money for what you're talking about," Hill said.

UCRB Chairman Christopher Satterwhite also agreed that affordable housing within the neighborhoods near downtown should be a top priority, noting that housing considered affordable by workforce-level residents was quickly climbing beyond reach.

"I have friends that are moving," the chairman said.

As for the board's recommendation that community policing become a higher priority within the CRA, the chairman nodded towards the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man killed by a Minneapolis police officer earlier this year, and the ensuing national protest against systemic racism within law enforcement.

"All of that could have been Pensacola, easily," Satterwhite said, pointing back to the 2019 shooting death of Tymar Crawford, who was killed by a former Pensacola Police Department detective during a traffic stop.

Currently, the CRA chips in around $100,000 annually to fund a pair of police to patrol the area on bicycles, as opposed to police vehicles. The effort is a partnership with Pensacola's Downtown Improvement Board.

In January, UCRB members will have a chance to further discuss this issue and how the CRA can become more engaged in the discussion concerning community-police dynamics when a PPD representative is scheduled to appear before the board.

In addition to identifying affordable housing and community policing as top priorities within the CRA, the UCRB also hit upon some areas they would like to further discuss.

These include the potential for conducting various surveys, such as surveys of trees and bike racks and brick streets, as well as diving into homelessness.

Some of these exploratory items fall outside the traditional scope of the CRA. The issue of homelessness, for example, is a community-wide issue demanding the attention of multiple local governments and community agencies across the region.

"It's symbolic," Buchanan said of including matters such as homelessness in the board's priority recommendations to the CRA board, explaining that the move would signal that members considered homelessness "one of the biggest issues in the city" and also connected to affordable housing.

Then again, maybe it's not entirely symbolic. Councilwoman Hill noted needed facilities, such as public restrooms and a dayuse center, could well be located within the urban core CRA. She said, "I think that needs to be part of the discussion."

CPAC GETS NEW CHAIR During its Dec. 1

meeting, Pensacola's Citizen Police Advisory Committee (CPAC) elected its new chairman. The committee's previous head, Rev. Joseph Marshall, is stepping down due to outside obligations and health issues.

In bidding Marshall farewell, Mayor Robinson thanked him for "step[ping] into a challenging committee for a challenging issue."

"You certainly set the tone for us, taking up a delicate issue," the mayor said.

Rev. Marshall implored committee meminweekly.net

bers to continue their work, offering some words of counsel going forward and also connecting the microcosm of Pensacola to a larger national conversation about systemic racism within law enforcement.

"Upon me coming on board, my heart was in this, and it still is," Marshall said. "And my prayers and my thoughts will continue to be with this committee. It definitely is a ship that has to navigate its way through these waters and the social unrest and injustices that are presently present in our country in which we live, but I certainly pray that y'all will continue to press forward in that regard and stay focused on exactly why we're here."

Though CPAC members initially threw multiple considerations onto the table—including committee member Vic Durant and Vice Chairman Jonathan Green—their choice ultimately came down to Drew Buchanan and Kyle Cole.

"In my humble opinion, the people who have the less personal experience with our issues are the better spokesmen as a committee leader," CPAC member Autumn Blackledge contended.

Much of CPAC's discussion pertains to the relationship between law enforcement and the local Black community. Buchanan is white, whereas Cole, who has often relayed his personal experiences with law enforcement during committee discussions, is Black.

Blackledge, who has previously complained about Marshall's interjections during CPAC meetings, suggested that a talkative chair tends to "stifle some of the conversation" and that she'd prefer a "logistic leader" as opposed to "somebody who wants to talk on every motion."

"Just, quite frankly, I'd rather hear from Kyle on every motion than Drew," Blackledge said.

Buchanan told committee members that he "wouldn't necessarily dial my opinions back," and Cole said that he possessed both "an unbiased opinion" and "experience." Both Buchanan and Cole said they

would be focused on directing the committee's discussions toward a final report.

Prior to securing the chairmanship on a 6-3 vote, Buchanan acknowledged the sensitive nature of the position, as well as the committee itself.

"This is a complicated committee, obviously, so no one's first intention is to say, 'Oh, yeah, pick me for chair. That sounds like a fantastic job,' respectfully," he said. "But I'd certainly be willing to step up if the committee would like me to."

MORE TANGIBLE ACTIONS The new

CPAC chairman intends to guide the group toward something tangible, something actionable.

"In the future, I would like us to pivot to a more report-type function, similar to the transition team for the mayor," said Drew Buchanan, fielding questions from committee members on Dec. 1, just prior to his election.

Buchanan's emphasis on producing a report aligns with the wishes of Mayor Grover Robinson, who stressed during the group's most recent meeting the importance of organizing the committee's various discussions and recommendations into a report by springtime.

"There are things that you're asking for that will be budgetary," Robinson told the committee. "For us to make it in this budget, we really need that report to finish by the end of March."

CPAC was formed following a 2019 police shooting of an unarmed Black man during a traffic stop. The group has spent its initial months discussing issues like mental health and exploring the boundaries of their mission.

Particularly, committee members have wondered aloud if CPAC might be granted the authority to dig into specific alleged instances of systemic racism within the Pensacola Police Department. Mayor Robinson reiterated at the Dec. 1 meeting that state law prevented the committee from taking any sort of investigatory role and urged members to focus on municipal policies and procedures that the city had the power to address.

"We would like you to look at the things that we know we can do," Robinson said.

"Certainly, there are things that we can't do without state control. Those will be issues that are not going to be decided here in Pensacola; they're ultimately decided in Tallahassee."

The mayor continued, explaining that he valued the committee's discussion about issues such as the de-prioritization of low-level marijuana possession but that such issues were outside the city's purview.

"I totally understand the value in the discussion and why you've had those certain things, but again, those are things that are outside of our ability to make those things happen," he said. "And they're certainly good for discussion and conversation, but, again, what we can actively change here in Pensacola without having to deal with Tallahassee, those are the things that we would certainly like you to look at and make those recommendations in your report that we get in March."

Mayor Robinson suggested that the committee focus on the PPD's policies and procedures, aspects of which the city has the ability to change.

"So if we were to make a recommendation on the use of force policy—," committee member Kyle Cole began to inquire.

"Use of force would absolutely be within our parameters," Robinson cut in. "If you want us to look at it, we will absolutely look at it."

The mayor instructed the committee to include all elements of their discussions in a final report but to prioritize recommendations based on the city's ability to address the items.

"A report gives us something that we can take action on," Robinson said.

"Sounds to me like we need to get busy putting together a report," concluded committee member Charles Bare. "The faster we get that put together, the faster things can be looked at and worked on."

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY The AARP Tax Aide Program, a partnership

of the IRS and the AARP Foundation, is looking for volunteers to help prepare tax returns in our Pensacola area community.

The program aims to help low- to moderate-income neighbors, senior citizens, disabled individuals and persons for whom English is their second language.

If you can contribute as little as four hours per week during the January-midApril tax season, please apply at aarp.org/ taxvolunteer.

DRIVER'S LICENSE CLINIC The First

Judicial Circuit will host a Driver's License Clinic on Friday, March 26, to assist individuals whose licenses have been revoked, suspended or canceled. The event will be held from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the M.C. Blanchard Judicial Building in Pensacola.

Registration opened on Tuesday, Dec. 1, so that more services can be provided in advance of the actual clinic day. The goal of the clinic is to provide "one-stop shopping" for citizens to interact with the appropriate state agencies and/or the court so they can determine how to regain their driving privileges.

Drivers' licenses may be suspended for a variety of reasons, including, 1) failure to pay traffic tickets; 2) the accumulation of too many points on one's driving record; 3) failure to pay child support; 4) failure to pay or work off fines, fees and costs imposed as part of a criminal sentence; 5) failure to maintain automobile insurance; 6) failure to register a vehicle or keep or renew the registration; 7) failure to obtain, renew or return a car tag; or 8) designation as an habitual traffic offender. Licenses may also be revoked as a consequence of entering a plea to certain crimes, such as driving under the influence or certain drugrelated offenses.

Clinic eligibility is outlined on the Escambia County Driver's License Clinic event page at escambiacountydriverslicenseclinic2021.eventbrite.com. {in}

Have You Lost More than 10% in the Stock Market?

YOU MAY HAVE CONCENTRATION IN

ENERGY

TRANSPORTATION

FINANCE

HOSPITALITY

850.435.7000 | LEVINLAW.COM | PENSACOLA, FL

PETER J. MOUGEY | Recovered $250 Million on Behalf of over 3,000 Investors | Call Us For A Free Consultation

December 10, 2020

9

'tis the

for

By Jennifer Leigh

The holiday season is always a time for good tidings and giving back. But this year, it's even more important.

If you're fortunate enough to have a little extra money to spend or a little extra time to give, you might be overwhelmed on how to spend it since there's no shortage of need in the area. Here are some ideas on how to support communities and causes in need right now.

And if you're one of those people in need, resources are just a call away. The 2-1-1 program from United Way Northwest Florida connects callers to the help they need, whether it's financial assistance or a mental health crisis. Learn more at 211nwfl.communityos.org.

010 1

THINGS TO DO Tree of Lights

Join Arc Gateway for the annual Tree of Lights, paying tribute to loved ones who passed away in 2020. This year's event will be hosted on Facebook Live with WEAR's Sue Straughn reading names of loved ones.

Watch the ceremony at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, at facebook.com/thearcgateway.

Volunteer at a Cold Night Shelter

As the winter season settles in, cold night shelters will be opening in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, and they need support to keep running. Ensley First Bap-

tist Church is seeking volunteers to help check in guests, work in the kitchen and stay overnight to help monitor the shelter, which is open to women and children on nights forecast to drop below 40 degrees.

The overnight team is the biggest need. All volunteers must pass a background check.

Anyone interested can visit ensleyfbc.org for more information.

GIVE A LITTLE BIT

Blessing Bag Drive for Opening Doors Northwest Florida

Opening Doors Northwest Florida is collecting items to put together 150 blessing bags for those who are unsheltered. The

bags will be distributed on Monday, Dec. 21, which is National Homeless Memorial Day. Items for the blessing bags include a new pair of shoes, a flashlight, knit hat, gloves, new undergarments, reading glasses, small denomination gift cards, hygiene products and more. Items can be dropped off at 1020 N. New Warrington Road, MondayFriday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Contact Serene Keiek for more information at 741-4616 or serenek@openingdoorsnwfl.org.

Solace in Your Stocking

Waterfront Rescue Mission's holiday giving campaign always urges you to give a gift that gives back. Visit waterfrontinweekly.net

mission.org and click the "Solace in Your Stocking" banner to make a donation in someone's name. A $25 donation gives someone a pillow and hygiene products, or $45 helps 15 homeless guests wash their laundry. You can even send a personalized message to the gift recipient so they know where the donation goes.

Gulf Coast Kid's House Ornaments This year, decorate your Christmas tree with some hope. The pandemic has hit organizations such as GCKH hard, with kids being isolated and less visible as schools were closed. Now that schools have reopened, there's been a rise in cases. GCKH has reported a nearly 58% increase in new child abuse cases since July. With events on hold, it's been hard for nonprofits to raise funds, but purchasing a GCKH ornament is a tangible way to support kids in Escambia County. The handmade ornaments are $25 each, which includes shipping. You can order one online at gulfcoastkidshouse.org.

Christmas for Seniors

Senior citizens have had a tough 2020 living in isolation to avoid the risk of COVID exposure. Organizations such as Council on Aging of West Florida have been helping to make sure seniors have all of their basic needs. During the holidays, they host the annual Christmas for Seniors initiative, asking for donations of gift cards to stores such as Walmart, Dollar General, Target, etc., so that seniors can purchase something for themselves that they need or want. You can send gift cards by mail to 875 Royce St., Pensacola, FL 32503, or drop it off in person by Friday, Dec. 18. For more information, visit coawfla.org.

Clothes for Cold Night Guests

Ferris Hill Baptist Church runs the cold night shelter in Santa Rosa County serving adults and children. One of their biggest needs is brand-new socks and underwear and cold-weather items such as jackets, gloves and hats to distribute. Drop off items at the church, located at 6848 Chaffin St. in Milton. You can also make a monetary donation to support the shelter online at ferrishill.org.

Cram the Closet for Foster Kids

Foster children and youth may enter a foster home without basic necessities, which is why the National Youth Advocate Program is collecting items for youth in Northwest Florida. Items include new and unworn clothing and shoes for all ages, new and unopened hygiene items, new backpacks and new comfort items such as stuffed animals, soft blankets and toys. See the entire wish list at bit.ly/NYAPcloset.

Drop off locations include Running Wild, 3012 E. Cervantes St.; Maximilian Coffee, 3419 N. 12th Ave. and The Daily Squeeze Juice & Smoothie Bar, 901 N. 2th Ave.

PUTTING PRESENTS UNDER THE TREE

Gulf Coast Kid's House Angel Tree Help GCKH put presents under Christmas trees. This year, they are requesting December 10, 2020

gift cards to retailers such as Walmart, Target and Amazon to provide flexibility for families. However, new toy donations are also accepted. If you are interested in spreading some holiday cheer to one of our families, call 595-5800. Items can be dropped off at 3401 N. 12th Ave.

FamiliesFirst Network Operation Santa

Some good news—The FamiliesFirst Network of Lakeview currently has all children sponsored for Christmas. But as additional children go into foster care, you can help make their holiday special by sending a monetary donation so that staff can purchase specific items quickly. Send a donation online at elakeviewcenter.org or mail it to Baptist Health Care Foundation, P.O. Box 17500, Pensacola, FL 32522.

SUPPORT LOCAL FOOD PROGRAMS

Food banks and soup kitchens have been stretched ultra-thin this year. Your support helps keep pantries full across the region.

Manna Food Bank: 116 E. Gonzalez St. mannahelps.org Feeding the Gulf Coast: 5709 Industrial Blvd., Milton. feedingthegulfcoast.org FoodRaising Friends, Inc.: facebook.com/ foodraisingfriends Outreach Navarre Weekend Food Program: outreachnavarre.com Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen: 257 E Lee St. loavesandfishessoupkitchen.com

FOR THE FUR FRIENDS

Want to foster a pet for the holidays?

Adopt a new friend? Or just donate some much-needed food? Here are a few local shelters to support.

Pensacola Humane Society: 5 N. Q St. pensacolahumane.org Escambia County Animal Shelter: 200 W. Fairfield Drive. ecasfriends.com Santa Rosa County Animal Services: 4451 Pine Forest Road, Milton. facebook.com/srcanimalservices Pensacola Hotel for Dogs & Cats: h4dc.org A Hope: 5755 Washington St., Milton. ahope4src.com

POLITICAL PRIORITIES

Chances are you're a lot more politically engaged this year. Keep the momentum going by supporting causes that keep democracy strong. Donate in a friends' name or purchase merch for that gift with real meaning.

One group that's timely to donate to is Stacey Abrams' organization Fair Fight.

They are currently working hard to get out the vote ahead of the Georgia Senate runoffs this January.

Fair Fight: fairfight.com Pensacola Dream Defenders: lnk.bio/pcolasquadd Black Voters Matter: blackvotersmatterfund.org She Should Run: sheshouldrun.org ACLU of Florida: aclufl.org {in} 11

– GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE – at all Bodacious locations

Gift Some Fun this CHRISTMAS

bodaciousshops.com •

/BodaciousShops

Your health and safety remain our TOP priority.

At Bodacious, all cooking classes are demonstration style (hands off) at this time.

Food and beverage staff are practicing the highest safety standards with daily temperature readings and wearing medical-grade face masks and gloves at all times. Guests will remain at recommended distances while enjoying a gourmet meal, a delicious glass of wine and a fresh Bodacious cooking experience.

Due to limited product availability during COVID, our Chef may have to make menu substitutions based on the availability.

Cooking Class Cancellation Policy: Classes must meet a minimum of 10 reservations. We reserve the right to cancel and undersold classes will be rescheduled. Reservation fees will be refunded within 24 hours. Full refund if cancellation is 48 hours before the date of the event. If cancellation is not 48 hours before the event, you can transfer your credit to an upcoming class. You cannot receive a full refund after the 48-hour mark. Thank you for your understanding!

212 1

inweekly.net

WEEK OF DECEMBER 10-16

Arts & Encouragement hope, help and other signs of humanity at a time when we really need it...

A Resource for Rover

By Jennifer Leigh

Even during a pandemic, Pensacola Humane Society has managed to expand services and find a way to help underserved communities keep pets in the home.

Jennifer Bitner, executive director of Pensacola Humane Society, said their auxiliary property on Beverly Parkway was gifted to the organization years ago and has been used for several different purposes.

The latest is a Pet Resource Center set to open this week.

Thanks to volunteers for putting in time and a little bit of funding, the Pet Resource Center was finished with "very minimal expense."

"We had a group of volunteers who helped with demolition, painting and getting tables and chairs," she explained. "It's really pretty amazing, and that's why we want this to be available to the community."

The Pet Resource Center will officially open Thursday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. While not an adoption center, the property is a space to help low-income families with services such as a pet food pantry, pet supplies, behavioral counseling, subsidies for spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations and more. The resource center will also be home base for the nonprofit's mobile outreach program, the Rescue Rover.

Since the pandemic hit Northwest Florida, Bitner has seen firsthand the struggles of the community. Since May, the nonprofit has given away 50,000 pounds of pet food.

And that need hasn't slowed down. It's part of the reason why they decided to turn the property into a resource center to be an extension of a lot of the services the shelter offers from its main location.

"Staff at our pet pantry are busy all day long," said Bitner. "Every day, people are helping out."

Along with pet food, the resource center will house various pet supplies. A small classroom will eventually be used for training volunteers. There are "endless opportunities," said Bitner. Staff from the Humane Society's Safety Net Team will also be at the center. The goal behind it is giving people every opportunity to keep pets at home and out of the shelter.

But that has proven difficult during the pandemic. Since Gov. Ron DeSantis allowed the state's eviction ban to expire in October, animal shelters in general have seen a rise in numbers. Pensacola Humane Society provides pet deposit help, but Bitner said some renters are forced to choose between pets or

housing with new landlords. According to the Best Friends Animal Society, housing is listed as the second most common reason people cite when surrendering a pet to a shelter.

"Escambia and Santa Rosa County animal shelters have been full for the past 30 to 45 days," said Bitner. "We're getting a lot of calls asking if we can pull animals, and we attribute it to the eviction ban being lifted."

All the way back to March, Bitner said it was a "very scary time" for the shelter as they were working to find ways to operate in such troubling times.

One bright spot is how the shelter not only managed to continue operations but expand their mission without fundraiser or outreach events.

During the Thanksgiving break, all of the animals at Pensacola Humane Society were, thankfully, placed in temporary foster care so they wouldn't be alone for the holiday. And soon, the nonprofit is working to launch a new wellness program.

"We connected with other organizations all over the country," said Bitner. "We had to re-think animal welfare. But some really incredible things emerged. It's been amazing to think of the things we've been able to do." {in}

PENSACOLA HUMANE SOCIETY PET RESOURCE CENTER

WHERE: 817 Beverly Parkway WHEN: Grand opening is 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 10 DETAILS: facebook.com/petresourcecenter

A new space also means even more room for pet food and supply donations.

Next time you're at the pet store or shopping on Amazon, throw in an extra item (or two) and bring it to the shelter.

DOGGIE WISHLIST

•Purina Dog Chow (green bag) •Purina ONE Healthy Puppy (red bag) •Canned wet dog and puppy food (gravy and pate) •Soft treats of all kinds •Pill pockets •Fleece blankets •XL Crates and Kennels •Non-squeak toys •Purina ONE Small Bites •Dog food of any kind for community pantry •Dog Harnesses (Large size especially)

KITTY WISHLIST

•KMR Kitten Weaning Formula (powdered) •Purina ONE Healthy Kitten •Purina Cat Chow Complete •Bottle Feeding Bottles •Canned Fancy Feast •Carpeted scratching posts •Miracle Nipples •Corrugated cardboard scratching pads •Cat food of any kind for community pantry •Unused toothbrushes For more information on donating, visit pensacolahumane.org.

Stock Market Losses?

Hire a lawyer who is a former Merril Lynch stock broker.

11 East Romana Street | Pensacola, Fl 32502

genemitchell.org December 10, 2020

13

a&e happenings also be taking special requests to perform during each event.

Each Sunday, there will be two seatings for this event at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. In addition to our full brunch menu, Chef James Briscione will offer a special feature presentation.

As Angelena's continues to maintain safety guidelines within the standards of service, please note that seating will be limited. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 542-8398 or visiting angelenaspensacola.com.

JUNIE B. IN JINGLE BELLS, BATMAN SMELLS Bring the whole family for this hi-

larious holiday tale based on the book series

by Barbara Park. Showtimes streaming only Dec. 12 through Dec. 21. Purchase tickets online at pensacolalittletheatre.com.

GRINCHMAS-THEMED HOLIDAY DINNER Bodacious will be transformed

Photo courtesy of Ideaworks

Attending "normal" events might not be happening yet—but that doesn't mean local businesses and nonprofits aren't still keeping the community connected in creative ways.

HOLIDAY CALENDAR

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE GIVES BACK Instead of asking for donations this

Giving Tuesday, PLT wants to give back to young artists in the community. Through Dec. 15, PLT is sending a surprise gift to children—no matter the circumstance.

Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com and fill out a form to send a gift to a deserving child free or charge.

GRAB-AND-GO HOLIDAY MEALS WITH FIVE SISTERS BLUES CAFÉ Don't

worry about cooking this holiday season. Just put an order in with Five Sisters Blues Café.

For Christmas, order a full family meal with a 3-pound Creole mustard ham and sides.

Package is $65 plus tax and feeds six people.

Order now-noon on Dec. 21 and pick up Thursday, Dec. 24, 8 a.m.-noon. New Year's Eve dinner includes a smoked brisket and sides. Package is $45 plus tax and feeds six people. Order now-noon on Dec. 28, and pick up on Dec. 31, 2-5 p.m. To place an order, contact Kady Reeves at 293-3148, or email kady@fivesistersbluescafe.com.

HOLIDAY HOURS AT GREAT SOUTHERN RESTAURANTS For more information on Great Southern Restaurants—location and menus—visit greatsouthernrestaurants.com.

CHRISTMAS EVE—Thursday, Dec. 24 The Fish House: Lunch service: 11a.m.–3 p.m.

Dinner service: 3–10 p.m.

Jackson's Steakhouse: Lunch service: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Dinner service: 5–10 p.m.

Five Sisters Blues Café: Lunch service: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Dinner service: 4–9 p.m.

414 1

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano: Lunch Service: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Dinner service: 5–10 p.m.

CHRISTMAS DAY—Friday, Dec. 25 The Fish House: Dinner service: 5–10 p.m.

Jackson's Steakhouse: Dinner service: 5–10 p.m.

Five Sisters Blues Café: Dinner service: 4–9 p.m.

Angelena's Ristorante Italiano: Dinner service: 5–10 p.m.

THE BLOCKS POP-UP HOLIDAY MARKET Support local vendors in a new

pop-up market. Businesses include Homebody Essence, Thai 54, Visually Laced and more. Markets are Fridays, Dec. 11 and 18, from 4-8 p.m.; Saturdays, Dec. 12 and 19, from 2-6 p.m.; and Sundays, Dec. 13 and 20, from 2-6 p.m. The market is located on the first floor of the Savoy Apartments, 321 N. DeVilliers St. For more information, visit facebook. com/theblockspopup.

WINTERFEST A re-imagined Winterfest

experience will incorporate a number of COVID-19-related changes to ensure guest safety while retaining the magic of Winterfest. Families can choose from two themed tours—The Polar Express Trolley Tour or the Cajun Christmas Experience. Santa will be ready for photographs in a new sleigh designed to allow for social distancing. All Winterfest tours and visits with Santa will take place on Dec. 12 and Dec. 18-24. Tickets are available at pensacolawinterfest.org.

ANGELENA'S PRESENTS "CAROLS ON THE COAST" Angelena's will present

three special "Carols on the Coast" brunch events on Sunday, Dec. 13; and Sunday, Dec. 20, at Angelena's, located at 101 E. Intendencia St. Angelena's has teamed up with the Pensacola Children Chorus to present the best sounds of the season. The carolers will

into Whoville for this delicious holiday event, featuring a themed menu, music and decorations. Menu items include roast beast, who hash, Grinch greens, who pudding and more. The dinner is Thursday, Dec. 11, at 6 p.m. Cost is $95. To register, visit bodaciousshops.com.

DECK THE HALLS LUNCH EVENTS

Jackson's will present three special "Deck the Halls" lunch events on Saturday, Dec. 12; and Saturday, Dec. 19. Seatings are at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Jackson's has once again teamed up with the Pensacola Opera to present a lunch filled with holiday cheer featuring costumed carolers singing all of the traditional carols.

In abundance of caution, the singers will be socially distanced from the seated guests.

The Pensacola Opera singers will serenade patrons with holiday favorites such as "Silent Night," "Away in a Manger" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," to name a few. Jackson's is located at 400 S. Palafox. Reservations are required. Call 469-9898 or visit jacksonsrestaurant.com to reserve your spot.

FIRST CITY ART CENTER WINTER ART MARKET The First City Art Center's

Winter Art Market is Saturday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.3 p.m. at its location at 1060 N. Guillemard St. Over 25 local artisan and student vendors will be present selling handmade goods.

Wares such as holiday ornaments, glass items, pottery, paintings, jewelry, wood working, clothing, crystals, artisan coffee, fiber art, homemade dog treats and more will be sold.

Fresh Food Factory food truck will be present, as well as the ECUA hydration station.

Watch FCAC glass and pottery artists doing live demonstrations. Gallery 1060 will be open featuring their latest show "Gallery 1060 Holiday Show," where the pieces will be available for purchase. The event will also include a holiday-themed kids' activity and game area. Masks are required to be worn on First City Art Center's campus. For more information, visit firstcityart.org.

SANTA PAWS & PINTS Come one out have some delicious craft beer, cider, selt-

zer or wine and enjoy the day with Santa, Mrs. Clause and The Elf at Gary's Brewery & Biergarten, located at 208 Newman Ave., from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12.

Save Underdogs Rescue & Amazing Grace Bully Rescue will be out in the biergarten, and Melt Food Truck will be on site. For more information, visit facebook.com/garysbrew.

Gary's is currently looking for animalfriendly vendors. Please send inquiries to garysbrews@gmail.com.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S CHORUS— CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST Get your

tickets for Christmas on the Coast at the Saenger Theatre on Dec. 11, 12 and 13.

As a result of limited seating and with respect for those wishing to practice social distancing, the Pensacola Children's Chorus will be offering a Christmas on the Coast live stream option. The Friday, Dec. 11, performance will be available to watch from the comfort of your home. The cost of streaming is $25. To purchase this option, please visit pensacolachildrenschorus. ticketspice.com/christmasonthecoast.

Tickets to view the production in person are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the Saenger Theatre Box Office or ticketmaster.com. Tickets range from $15-$41. For additional information, please visit pensacolasings.org.

HAPPY WINTER CREATIVE KITS Dec.

12-19, swing by Century Branch Library, located at 7991 N. Century Blvd., for a winter jewelry or ornament creation kit of your choice, and pick out a book or DVD from our winter display. Instructions for your creation are located in the kit. Send a photo of what you made to happening@mywfpl.com.

DATES: •Saturday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

•Tuesday, Dec. 15-Friday, Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

•Saturday, Dec. 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

HO HO HUSTLE 5K The annual Ho Ho

Hustle 5k will begin 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. The scenic course begins at Running Wild, located at 3012 E. Cervantes St. Kids can participate for free in a 1-mile Santa Sprint after the race. To register, visit runsignup.com/race/info/fl/pensacola/hohohustle5Krunningwild.

OPEN STUDIO: HOLIDAY CRAFTS

Unleash your creativity with PMA Saturday, Dec. 12, from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. Cost is $10 and includes admission to the museum.

Choose from a collection of holiday crafts such as wreaths, winter garland, ornament/ magnet making, DIY wrapping paper and Christmas cards. Visit facebook.com/pensacolamusuem for more info.

SANTA DROP Bring the family and watch Santa parachute down to the beach at Flora-Bama, located at 17401 Perdido Key Drive. This is a free event with arts and crafts, face painting, sweet treats and live

inweekly.net

Your Personal Injury Lawyers In Pensacola, Florida Since 1955 850-432-1111 | LevinLaw.com | Google Us

December 10, 2020

15

a&e happenings music/Christmas songs for the kids. Don't forget to get pictures with Santa after he lands.

For more information, visit florabama.com.

POST 33 OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS MARKET Post 33 is hosting an outdoor

Christmas Market on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Funds will go to the restoration of the historic building. There will be a photo booth, vendors, music and free kid's craft activities. Help save the historic building and have a fun time with the family. There will be free Christmas stockings for kids while supplies last.

CHRISTMAS ZOOBILEE The Second

Annual Christmas ZOObilee at the Gulf Breeze Zoo is Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 21, 10 a.m.4 p.m., with last admission at 3 p.m.

Christmas ZOObilee includes winterthemed bounce stations, live music and entertainment, and a Candy Cane Market full of gifts, sights, smells and tastes of the season, including unique gifts from local artists and delicious holiday treats. Gulf Breeze Zoo is located at 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway. Visit gbzoo.com for more information.

HOLIDAY MARKET AT ODD COLONY Shop local at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, with local vendors, raffle prizes, food trucks and live music. For more information, visit facebook.com/oddcolony.

"ALL I WANT" HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY

Friends of Downtown Pensacola has launched its "All I Want" holiday promotion to support downtown small businesses and will randomly select one winner a day for 12 days from Dec. 13-24. Each winner will receive a $100 gift card. A receipt of at least $10 from any downtown restaurant, bar, gallery or shop dated between Nov. 6-Dec. 2 is all it takes to enter. Participants should submit photos of their receipts online at downtownpensacola.shop, where full rules are also posted. (Restrictions apply)

JINGLE JUKEBOX GALA Join Pensacola Opera for a holiday gala with a delicious brunch while being serenaded by opera stars at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at Court

GRAPHIC NOVELS

PEPPERMINT PUP TROT Mark your calendar for the Peppermint Pup Trot.

Join Pensacola Humane Society Sunday, Dec. 13, from 1–4 p.m. for a mile-long walk with your dog(s) and other fun activities.

Registration will be on the day of the event at Ever'man Cooperative. There will be a costume contest, so don't forget to dress up your pup. Cost is $10 per individual and $25 for the whole family. For more information, visit pensacolahumane.org.

THE OFFICE CHRISTMAS EPISODES

Head to Odd Colony Tuesday, Dec. 15, from 7-9 p.m. for a holiday-themed trivia night. Dress in character and receive $1 off pints. Trivia winners will receive an Odd Colony gift card and hoodie. For more information, visit facebook.com/oddcolony.

"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" AT THE REX Pensacola Cinema Art and Generation Church present this ultimate Christmas classic. The special movie screening is 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at The REX Theatre, 18 N. Palafox. Tickets are $5 (cash only).

Face masks are required and theatre will be at 50% maximum capacity. Visit pensacolacinemaart.com for more information.

COLLECTION UNCORKED: HOLIDAY EDITION Join PMA Chief Curator Anna

Wall and Wine Specialist Hilary Shaffer for this virtual event as they walk guests through thoughtful pairings between pieces from the Pensacola Museum of Art Permanent Collection and the tasting notes of unique wines included in the special edition wine box. The event is Thursday, Dec. 17, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This event is hosted via Zoom, and registration is required. For more information and to register for the event, visit facebook.com/ pensacolamuseum.

THE NUTCRACKER Ballet Pensacola's

annual performance of "The Nutcracker" hits the Saenger stage Friday, Dec. 18, and

Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $36. The classical ballet will enthrall audiences as the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky accompanies the story of Clara and her journey through the Land of the Sweets. The captivating scenes of a battle between toy soldiers and mice, a pas de deux of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier and a serene snow scene have made "The Nutcracker" a Pensacola family tradition. Reserve your tickets at pensacolasaenger.com.

SOLSTICE MARKET The last market with Asher & Bee is at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. Head to Asher & Bee, located at 3014 N. Ninth Ave. and buy local from artisans and makers. For more information, visit facebook.com/asherandbee.

CHRISTMAS-THEMED MURDER MYSTERY AT GARDEN AND GRAIN

Improbable Cause Murder Mystery theatre presents "Ho Ho Homicide" from 7-9:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at Garden and Grain, located at 50 E. Garden St. Tickets are $50, which includes dinner. Taxes and drinks are not included. Prizes are awarded to the "best detectives." For more information, visit facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

BIG JIM BROWN AND THE SPEED KINGS HOLIDAY SHOW Visit Dolce and

Gelato, located at 2050 N. 12th Ave., for a live holiday show at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ dolcegelatopensacola.

FIRST CITY LIGHTS FESTIVAL Experience the holidays under the magical glow of half a million twinkling white lights along the historic streets of downtown Pensacola, through Jan. 16.

BEANSTACK READING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND BINGO CARD Partici-

pate in the Winter Wonderland Bingo Card with West Florida Public Libraries Friday, Dec. 18-Sunday, Jan. 31.

Kids can complete reading-related activities off of the Reading in a Winter Wonderland Bingo card. Once you've complet-

ed a Bingo (five activities in a row on the Bingo card), visit any of West Florida Public Libraries' seven branches to collect a prize.

The challenge can be completed using a physical copy of the Bingo Card (available for pick-up at all library branches) or the West Florida Public Libraries' Beanstack App to track your accomplishments.

Register for the Winter Reading Challenge on the West Florida Public Libraries' Beanstack, either on the mobile app or at mywfpl.beanstack.org.

PARENTS NIGHT OUT: HOLIDAY PAJAMA PARTY Give yourself some

time off while your little one explores their creative side at PMA, Saturday, Dec. 19, from 5:30-8 p.m. Parents can drop off their children ages 5-12 for an evening in the Pensacola Museum of Art studio. Students will experiment with various media to create a holiday-related craft, watch a holiday movie, snuggle up in their PJs and enjoy some warm refreshments. Cost is $20.

Please pack a dinner. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONTEST BENEFITS STUDER COMMUNITY INSTITUTE EARLY LEARNING The

Studer Family of Companies is hosting a Community Gingerbread House Competition & Display with a grand prize of $3,500 cash. To be eligible for the competition, an entry form must be received by Thursday, Dec. 11. A $15 fee will be required to enter. All proceeds go to benefit the Studer Community Institute—Early Learning.

Your entry number will be the same as your ticket number.

The Gingerbread Houses will be on display beginning Dec. 12 at the SCI Building and will continue to be on display for the following week. For gingerbread contest questions and information, contact Charles Houston or Brittani Hunter at charles@studercdg.com or bhunter@ studeri.org. To register, visit eventbrite. com/e/127731846391.

for more listings visit inweekly.net

KIDS BOOKS

909 N. 12th Avenue

pensacolapopcomics.com 616 1

of De Luna, 116 E. Gonzalez St. This is a limited-seating event. Tickets are $150. To reserve yours, call 433-6737 or visit pensacolaopera.com.

www.radiofreepensacola.com inweekly.net

Many gift p more ack availa ages ble

2020 GIFT GUIDE

Supporting local businesses is more important now than ever before.

Bubba’s makes holiday shopping easy with homemade fudge, handcrafted chocolates and Bubba-branded swag perfect for corporate gift giving or for anyone who’s young at heart.

Swing by and let us help you find sweet gifts for everyone on your list.

PAR BOX #1

BIRDIE BOX #1

Assorted Homemade Fudge in Bubba Logo Box (approx. 1.5 lbs.)

Assorted Homemade Fudge in Bubba Logo Box (approx. 2.5 lbs.)

$

27.99

$

41

HOLE-IN-ONE KIT #2 $

EAGLE KIT #1 $

35

100

Kazoo Golf Club Cover Autographed by Bubba, Bubba’s Sweet Spot Shirt, Hat, Golf Ball Mint, 2 Bubba Gummies

DOUBLE EAGLE KIT #1 $

41

Bubba’s Sweet Spot Sand Bucket, Shirt, Golf Ball Mint, 2 Bubba Gummies

Bubba’s Sweet Spot Shirt, Golf Ball Mint, 2 Bubba Gummies

MON – THU 11am – 8pm FRI – SAT 11am – 9pm SUNDAY 12pm – 5pm

DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA 412 S. Palafox Street 850-332-6696

Email Eric at eric@bubbasweetspot.com

To order, go to: bubbasweetspot.com, call or come visit us!

December 10, 2020

17

free will astrology WEEK OF DECEMBER 10 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Accord-

ing to Taoist scholar Chad Hansen, "Western philosophers have endlessly analyzed and dissected a cluster of terms thought to be central to our thinking," such as truth, beauty, reason, knowledge, belief, mind and goodness. But he reports that they've never turned their attention to a central concept of Chinese philosophy—the Tao, which might be defined as the natural, unpredictable flow of life's ever-changing rhythms. I think that you Aries people, more than any other sign of the zodiac, have the greatest potential to cultivate an intuitive sense of how to align yourselves vigorously with the Tao. And you're in prime time to do just that.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): What's the cause of the rumbling at the core of your soul? How do we explain the smoke and steam that are rising from the lower depths? From what I can discern, the fire down below and the water down below are interacting to produce an almost supernatural state of volatile yet numinous grace. This is a good thing. You may soon begin having visions of eerie loveliness and earth-shaking peace. The clarity that will eventually emerge may at first seem dark, but if you maintain your poise it will bloom like a thousand moons.

For Your Specialty

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): Author

• True Tear Dry Eye Treatments & Lipiflow Dry Eye Treatments

and student Raquel Isabelle de Alderete writes wittily about her paradoxical desires and contradictory qualities. In accordance with current astrological omens, I encourage you to ruminate about your own. For inspiration, read her testimony—"I want to be untouchably beautiful but I also don't want to care about how I look. I want to be at the top of my class but I also just want to do as best as I can without driving myself to the edge. I want to be a mystery that's open to everybody. A romantic that never falls in love. Both the bird and the cat."

• Eyelash Lengthening

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): What

Eye Care Needs!

• Color and Bifocal Contact Lenses

• Luxury & Exclusive Eyeglasses & Sunglasses

113 Palafox Place (Across from Saenger Theatre)

Pensacola

(850) 434-2060 818 1

would it take for you to muster just a bit more courage so as to change what needs to be changed? How could you summon the extra excitement and willpower necessary to finally make progress on a dilemma that has stumped you? I'm happy to inform you that cosmic rhythms will soon be shifting in such a way as to make these breakthroughs more possible. For best results, shed any tendencies you might have to feel sorry for yourself or to believe you're powerless.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Novelist

Tom Robbins says you have the power to change how you perceive the world.

You can change reality—and how reality responds to you—by the way you look at it and interpret it. This counsel is especially useful for you right now, Leo. You have an unparalleled opportunity to reconfigure the way you apprehend things, and thereby

By Rob Brezsny

transform the world you live in. So I suggest you set your intention. Vow that for the next two weeks, every experience will bring you a fresh invitation to find out something you didn't know before.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was reelected in 2019. During his campaign, the Virgo-born politician arranged to be photographed while wearing the saffron robes of a Hindu priest and meditating in an austere Himalayan cave. Why did he do it? To appeal to religious voters. But later it was revealed that the "cave" was in a cozy retreat center that provides regular meals, electricity, phone service and attentive attendants. It will be crucial for you to shun this type of fakery in 2021, Virgo. Your success will depend on you being as authentic, genuine and honest as you can possibly be.

Now is an excellent time to set your intention and start getting yourself in that pure frame of mind.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): When

author Ernest Hemingway was working on the manuscript for his novel "A Farewell to Arms," he asked his colleague F. Scott Fitzgerald to offer critique. Fitzgerald obliged with a 10-page analysis that advised a different ending, among other suggestions. Hemingway wasn't pleased.

"Kiss my ass," he wrote back to Fitzgerald.

I suggest a different approach for you, Libra. In my view, now is a good time to solicit feedback and mirroring from trusted allies. What do they think and how do they feel about the current state of your life and work? If they do respond, take at least some of it to heart.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): Mistletoe is a parasite that grows on trees, weakening them. On the other hand, it has been a sacred plant in European tradition. People once thought it conferred magical protection. It was called "all-heal" and regarded as a medicine that could cure numerous illnesses. Even today, it's used in Europe as a remedy for colon cancer. And of course mistletoe is also an icon meant to encourage kissing. After studying your astrological potentials, I'm proposing that mistletoe serve as one of your symbolic power objects in the coming months. Why? Because I suspect that you will regularly deal with potencies and energies that could potentially be either problematic or regenerative. You'll have to be alert to ensure that they express primarily as healing agents.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21):

I'm envisioning a scene in which you're sitting on a chair at a kitchen table. At the center of the table is a white vase holding 18 long-stemmed red roses. The rest of the table's surface is filled with piles of money, which you have just unloaded from five mysterious suitcases you found at your front door. All of that cash is yours, having been given to you no-strings-attached by

an anonymous donor. You're in joyful shock as you contemplate the implications of this miraculous gift. Your imagination floods with fantasies about how different your life can become. Now, Sagittarius, I invite you to dream up at least three further wonderfully positive fantasies involving good financial luck. That's the medicine you need right now.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): Boisterous Capricorn novelist Patricia Highsmith (1921–1995) once made the following New Year's Eve Toast—"To all the devils, lusts, passions, greeds, envies, loves, hates, strange desires, enemies ghostly and real, the army of memories, with which I do battle—may they never give me peace."

Right now I suspect you may be tempted to make a similar toast. As crazy-making as your current challenges are, they are entertaining and growth-inducing. You may even have become a bit addicted to them. But in the interests of your long-term sanity, I will ask you to cut back on your "enjoyment" of all this uproar. Please consider a retreat into an intense self-nurturing phase.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): In the

French city of Strasbourg, there's a wine cellar built in the year 1395. Among its treasures is a barrel filled with 450 liters of wine that was originally produced in 1472.

According to legend, this ancient beverage has been tasted on just three occasions.

The last time was to celebrate the French army's liberation of Strasbourg from German occupation in 1944. If I had the power, I would propose serving it to you Aquarians in honor of your tribe's heroic efforts to survive—and even thrive—during the ordeals of 2020. I'm predicting that life in 2021 will have more grace and progress because of how you have dealt with this year's challenges.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): There are too many authorities, experts, know-it-alls and arrogant ideologues trying to tell us all what to do and how to do it. Fortunately, the cosmic rhythms are now aligned in such a way as to help you free yourself from those despots and bullies. Here's more good news: Cosmic rhythms are also aligned to free you from the nagging voice in your own head that harass you with fearful fantasies and threaten you with punishment if you aren't perfect.

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: What's the one thing you don't have that would help you make the biggest improvement in your life?

freewillastrology.com

freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com Rob Brezsny © Copyright 2020

inweekly.net

news of the weird THE CONTINUING CRISIS James Dixon, 29, of Chicago was arrested and charged with first-degree murder after a Thanksgiving get-together ended in the death of Vincell Jackson, 52, the host's boyfriend, police said. In the early hours of Nov. 27, prosecutors said, an argument broke out after Dixon used his bare hands to help himself to holiday meal leftovers, and Jackson "forcefully escorted him to the home's front door," the Chicago Tribune reported.

Assistant State's Attorney Susie Bucaro said the altercation moved out to the front porch, where a witness found Jackson stabbed nine times. He was pronounced dead at a hospital, and Dixon was arrested eight hours later, Bucaro said, with a bloodcovered knife in his possession.

NAMES IN THE NEWS After more than 1,000 years, the Austrian town of F—king is getting a new name, The Local reported.

English-speaking tourists have had a field day snapping selfies with city signs, even stealing them, and the 100 residents of modern-day F—king have had enough.

According to the minutes of a municipal council meeting published on Nov. 16, the town will change its name to Fugging as of Jan. 1. "I can confirm that the village is being renamed," said Andrea Holzner, mayor of the surrounding municipality. "I really don't want to say anything more."

•A newly elected local councilman in Ompundja, Namibia, is assuring constituents that he has no plans for world domination, despite his unfortunate name: Uunona Adolf Hitler.

The 54-year-old, who prefers to be called Mr. Uunona, told a German news website that his father named him without an understanding of the Nazi leader, Sky News reported.

Namibia is a former German colony, so many streets, places and people have German names. "It was a perfectly normal name for me when I was a kid," Uunona said.

CLICHES COME TO LIFE After a heated argument with his wife in late November, a 48-year-old unnamed man from Como, Italy, stepped outside to walk it off and kept on walking until he was stopped a week later by police officers patrolling after curfew in Gimarra, more than 260 miles away, Oddity Central reported. The man said he had walked the entire way, without using any other modes of transportation and relied on the kindness of strangers for food and drink.

"I'm fine. I'm just a little tired," he said. His wife, who had reported him missing, picked him up the next day, but had to pay a fine of almost $500 for his violation of the curfew.

SPEAKING OF ... The recent unexplained appearance of a silver monolith in the deserts of Utah has made headlines all around the world. It also seems to have attracted imitators, including one in Romania's

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

mountainous Neamt region. The 9-foot-tall metal structure mysteriously appeared on Nov. 27 and vanished on Dec. 1, leaving "just a small hole covered by rocky soil," a local reporter told Reuters. "An unidentified person, apparently a bad local welder, made it."

Georgiana Mosu, a spokeswoman for the local police, said officers are investigating the incident because the monolith was placed in a protected archaeological area.

•Germany has also experienced a recent monolith mystery, according to the Associated Press. Local media in southern Germany reported the disappearance on Nov. 30 of a wooden phallus sculpture about 7 feet tall that inexplicably appeared on Gruenten Mountain several years ago and had became a destination for hikers and tourists, even appearing on Google Maps as a "cultural monument." But over the weekend, someone chopped it down, leaving only a pile of sawdust. Police in the town of Kempten are investigating.

TURNABOUT IS FAIR PLAY An unnamed hunter near the Czech Republic village of Horni Plana contacted police in late November after a deer startled by the man's dogs charged him, snagging his .22-caliber rifle on its antlers before running into the woods, United Press International reported. The gun was unloaded, and police said another hunter saw the stag more than a half-mile away with the rifle still hanging from its antlers.

NEWS THAT SOUNDS LIKE A FAIRY TALE Police in Kansas City, Kansas, responded to a call on Nov. 27 from a man who said he returned home around 4 p.m. that day to find a stranger in his house. The unnamed suspect was wearing the victim's clothing, had made a sandwich and cooked and ate ramen noodles, and when police arrived, was fast asleep in the victim's bed, Fox4 reported. The man was arrested and booked into the Wyandotte County Jail, where the beds surely were too hard.

AWESOME! An unnamed North Korean man in his late 20s told officials his training as a gymnast enabled him to jump almost 10 feet high over a fence on Nov. 3 to escape into South Korea, National Public Radio reported. After crossing the fence, the man evaded capture for about 14 hours before being detained by South Korean soldiers, whom he told he wanted to defect.

Skeptical officials made him jump the same height again twice to help prove his story.

Amazingly, he successfully avoided land mines and sensors around the border. {in}

From Andrews McMeel Syndication News Of The Weird © 2020 Andrews McMeel

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com December 10, 2020

19

Come shop and support our local vendors at the newest market in our area!

Up to

26 vendors HOLIDAY MARKET

Located in the heart of Belmont-DeVilliers

First floor of the Savoy Apartments, 321 North DeVilliers Street .

Ave 9th

na celo Bar

.

Wright St

t. xS afo Pal

St.

St. len Bay

St. ing Spr

110

.

Chase St

St.

ent St.

Governm

ona rag Tar

St.

St. on ers Jeff

Romana WN DOWNTO OLA C cia St. Intenden PENSA

ce Pla fox Pala

t.

Garden S

Main St.

Maritime Park

Local businesses interested in participating in the market should contact Charles Houston at Charles@StuderCDG.com

Instagram: @TheBlocksPopUp facebook.com/theblockspopup Brought to you by the Studers Independent News | December 10, 2020 | inweekly.net

St. aniz Alc

St.

Friday........ ..4pm - 8pm Saturday.......2pm - 6pm Sunday.........2pm - 6pm

Belmont St. us Re

Friday........ ..4pm - 8pm Saturday.......2pm - 6pm Sunday.........2pm - 6pm

Dec. 18-20

St. yle Co

Dec. 11-13

s St.

Cervante

St. iers Vill

SPECIALTY CRAFTS BAKED GOODS LOCAL GIFTS MUSIC • FOOD • BEVERAGES

De

The pop-up market space will offer up to 26 vendors for browsing shoppers