Inweekly February 28 2019

Independent News | February 28, 2019 | Volume 20 | Number 9

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winners & losers 4

outtakes 5

news 6, 8 & 9

Hopefully it's like George Clinton directed a Disney movie and Metallica scored it.

buzz

cover feature

a&e

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15

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publisher Rick Outzen

graphic designer Michael Daw

contact us info@inweekly.net

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Sarah Mc Wilson, Jeremy Morrison, C.S. Satterwhite, Stephanie Sharp, Sydney Robinson

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.

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winners & losers

PRESENTS ERSULA KNOX ODOM Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Comes to Life Ersula Knox Odom will portray the legendary educator, civil and women’s rights leader, and government official in 1954 costume and character.

7pm Tuesday, March 5 WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio Pensacola State College Admission is free! Register: wsre.org/speakers

The Florida Humanities Council partners with community organizations around the state.

Support for the Florida Humanities Speaker Series is provided by the Florida Humanities Council with funds from the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs.

50239-0219 WSRE Inweekly-PS-Odom.indd 1

2/13/19 8:46 AM

Brian Clark / Courtesy Photo

winners

losers

BRIAN CLARK The Pensacola Council of the Navy League presented the 2019 Margaret Flowers Civic Award to NAS Whiting Field Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Clark. The award recognizes military members who contributed volunteer time to local religious, civic, educational, fraternal and other service organizations and whose work "greatly enhances the quality of life" in the communities in which they live and serve. Clark, an Aviation Boatswain's Mate, is the NAS Whiting Field volunteer program coordinator, volunteering at 96 community service events, and giving back more than 533 hours with organizations such as Meals on Wheels, the Shepard House and local Milton schools.

ESCAMBIA SCHOOL BOARD The board has nudged out the Emerald Coast Utility Board as the biggest rubber stamp board in Escambia County. The school board voted 4-1 in favor of School Superintendent Malcolm Thomas' recommendation to close yet another school, McMillan Pre-K Center. Since he took office in 2008, Thomas has closed Hallmark, Spencer-Bibbs and Allie Yniestra. Most of their students now attend Global Learning Academy, which last year made the Department of Education's list of persistently low-performing schools. The school board has helped drive the bus to mediocrity.

KRISTEN REGAN The Pensacola photogra-

Peter Farrelly thanked a great number of people during their Best Picture acceptance speeches but failed to mention Pensacola native Don Shirley, the man Mahershala Ali won an Oscar for portraying. We hope movies will be made of Dr. Shirley and Victor Green, creator of the Green Books. They deserve the recognition.

pher has been chosen to exhibit in ArtFields with nearly 400 other artists from around the Southeast. ArtFields is an annual, nine-day art competition in Lake City, S.C., that awards more than $140,000 in cash prizes to exhibitors. This year, the event takes place April 26-May 4. Congratulations, Kristen.

MAIN STREET MILTON The Main Street

Milton Board of Directors unanimously voted to voluntarily subject itself to the Florida Sunshine Law. Main Street Milton has expanded its roles in economic development, historic preservation, downtown special events and the Main Street Events Center, and the Board of Directors wanted to make transparency and accountability priorities. Board President Cassandra Sharp said, "This is another effort by MSM continuing to raise the bar for ourselves and the Milton community."

"GREEN BOOK" PRODUCERS AND DIRECTOR Jim Burke, Charles B. Wessler and

GOODLOE SUTTON The editor of the

Democrat-Reporter newspaper in Linden, Ala. wrote an unusual editorial. Sutton called for the Ku Klux Klan to "ride again" against "Democrats in the Republican Party and Democrats [who] are plotting to raise taxes in Alabama." He wrote that former slaves used to borrow "their former masters' robes and horses and rode through the night to frighten some evil doers. Sometimes they had to kill one or two of them, but so what."

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outtakes

By Rick Outzen

WHY WE LAG BEHIND The Escambia County School District trails behind most of the state. So-called innovations like Chromebooks are often implemented years later than other districts.

This past week, we had new examples of how the school district is out of step with the rest of the state when it comes to two priorities in public education—Pre-K education and workforce training.

The group 101 Florida Mayors has urged Gov. Ron DeSantis to focus on early childhood education so "the state's generation-in-waiting can achieve higher high school graduation rates and have access to a full slate of employment and postsecondary education opportunities."

"We know that the basic structure of the human brain is mostly constructed in the first three years of a child's life," read a letter to Gov. DeSantis signed by 101 Florida Mayors. "If all children are cared for and sheltered from damaging stressors in this pivotal time, they have a stronger start at leading a self-sufficient life of service to society."

Instead of supporting the expansion of Pre-K in Escambia County, the school board voted 4-1 to approve Superintendent Malcolm Thomas's recommendation to close McMillan Pre-K Center.

The closure is a slap in the face to the African-American community that needs Pre-K education to improve their children's chances of succeeding in school. It's also negatively impacted the Access Escambia goal of having 60 percent of all the county's school children ready for kindergarten by 2020.

Vocational training was an issue in the 2018 campaign cycle. Gov. DeSantis has recommended about $507 million for "workforce education" in his proposed 2019-10 budget. The budget includes $71.6 million for high school and post-high school career and tech programs.

Meanwhile, Thomas has refused to sign off on a $3 million Triumph grant for vocational training programs in cybersecurity, supply logistics and aviation maintenance.

His refusal is based on his fear that he can't meet the relatively low performance measurements tied to the funds.

Triumph Board chairman Don Gaetz explained his board's position to Inweekly last month. He is a former Florida Senate president and Okaloosa County School District superintendent. Gaetz said, "We are not like the Legislature. We don't just send money and hope it all works out. We want students to be qualified for the jobs they are trained for."

The mayor of Pensacola, Escambia County Commission, Pensacola Chamber and FloridaWest want the same goal for children in Escambia County. However, Superintendent Thomas holds to an archaic belief that the school district shouldn't be held accountable. He blocks the path to better-paying wages in this community.

There is little wonder why public education in Escambia County lags behind the rest of Florida. {in} rick@inweekly.net

There is little wonder why public education in Escambia County lags behind the rest of Florida.

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HOW GREEN WILL PENSACOLA GO?

Laurie Murphy / Courtesy Photo

By Jeremy Morrison Around the planet, communities and governments are planning and strategizing how best to address the impacts and causes of climate change. In Florida, coastal areas like Miami, Jacksonville and Tampa are trying to take proactive approaches to the issue.

Locally, it is a particularly ripe time on the environmental front in Pensacola. In the coming months, city officials will wade into two separate reports that have the potential to shape the municipality's environmental posture. City council will get into the findings of its climate change report released last fall, and Mayor Grover Robinson will receive recommendations from his transition team, an element of which is dedicated to environmental concerns.

Both the climate report and mayoral recommendations will aim to put the city on a path toward minimizing its environmental impact while also adapting to a changing climate.

Some of the prescriptions outlined in each may be immediately achievable, the so-called low-hanging fruit, while others will be much loftier—more difficult, more expensive, philosophically foreign—and perhaps idealistic.

The question is, how far is Pensacola willing to go to achieve a greener city? Especially when some of the environmental recommendations laid upon its table may seem unrealistic, overly ambitious, maybe even blasphemous or at least out in left field—where the city keeps its sacred cash cow and gaseous golden goose.

A STEP AHEAD OF THE GAME

Last November, the federal government released a fairly dismal report detailing the 66

potential impacts of climate change across the country. The report came on the heels of Pensacola's own "Climate Action Recommendations: A Blueprint for Addressing Climate Change at the Municipal Level."

Pensacola's report outlines potential threats to the area as well as how best to mitigate those threats.

less vehicle-centric landscape; reducing development densities in flood zones; and seeking grant funding to support environmental efforts.

Some of the report's recommendations, Murphy said, can be taken up pretty quickly.

"Low-hanging fruit?" she asked. "Lowimpact development, for example. Can we put in some bioretention swales downtown on some of the flooded streets to help reduce some of the flooding? Can we change out our lighting? Can we do solar lighting on parking spots?"

Murphy added, "You know, there's a lot of things that we can do to make some small changes."

Other items, such as the renewable energy targets, will take more time and effort.

"Some of these things are not going to be overnight. Some of these things are going to be long-term planning," Murphy said.

Currently, the task force's report sits with the city's Environmental Advisory Board. City Council Executive Don Kraher said board members will mull the report a bit longer before forwarding it to council with their own notes attached.

Murphy is hopeful the city has the appetite to act on some of the group's findings.

"I think that it really depends on where we go from here," she said. "If we can become a more proactive community, along with local government, instead of reactive, waiting for it to happen and trying to fix it, I think that we'll be a step ahead of the game."

"Basically, in a nutshell, it boils down to, how are we going to become a resilient, sustainable community? WE'RE GOING THERE When Mayor Robinson was elected into How are we going to reduce our office last fall, he assembled a transition team and tasked its members with digging vulnerabilities?" Laurie Murphy into the city and offering up recommenda"Basically, in a nutshell, it boils down to, how are we going to become a resilient, sustainable community? How are we going to reduce our vulnerabilities?" said Laurie Murphy, executive director for environmental organization Emerald Coastkeeper, who served as vice chairman for the city's Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Task Force.

Exploring environmental impacts on a number of areas of concern—such as transportation, emergency planning, utilities and public health—the report highlights areas the city should focus on and makes a number of recommendations for addressing things like stronger hurricanes and heavier rains.

Recommendations listed in the report include assessing the city's greenhouse gas emissions in order to establish a baseline; signing onto the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement; bringing someone on board to oversee environmental efforts; committing city properties to 30 percent renewable energy by 2030; striving for a more walkable,

tions for improvement. Each member was assigned a particular area of research, with local sustainable planner Christian Wagley asked to assess environmental concerns.

Wagley is the type of environmental dreamer who can close his eyes and envision a future powered by non-polluting, renewable forms of energy. In fact, such a destination is already a foregone conclusion. He's just waiting for everyone else to realize this.

"We're going there. And Pensacola's going to go there, as well," Wagley said. "The only question is, how soon? That's what the tension is going to be about, and what the debate is going to be about, is how soon do we go there?"

The transition team will soon issue its report to Robinson, and while Wagley is holding off on revealing what he'll be recommending to the mayor—"I don't want to tip my hand too much"—he did indicate his portion would pertain to issues like trees, climate change, stormwater, renewable energy and creating a more walkable community.

One of the sexier recommendations Wagley is considering pertains to solar power and dovetails with aspects of the city's climate mitigation report. He feels the city should install photovoltaic systems on municipally-owned buildings and begin generating some of its own power in an effort to offset its carbon footprint and also cut energy costs.

"They've got to do that. That's low-hanging fruit, really. That's the proverbial lowhanging fruit," Wagley said. "The city needs to start generating some of its own renewable energy. I mean, that's what other cities are doing; we're a little behind on that."

Some people might say the city already does deal in renewable energy. At least, that's what Chief Financial Officer Dick Barker said when Wagley breeched the notion of ditching Pensacola Energy, the city-owned natural gas utility.

"That was an extremely interesting experience for me in seeing how the city, at least from a budgetary standpoint, looks at energy," Wagley recalled.

Before painting natural gas as green, Barker had just finished explaining how the city receives around $8 million annually, or nearly 15 percent of its general fund budget, from the utility. The thought of walking away from natural gas and the revenues it brings seemed to trigger the CFO's philosophical gag reflex.

"If you recall, he said from a budgetary standpoint that the city hopes for cold winters and hot summers because that leads to greater energy use, which leads to greater revenues for the city," Wagley continued.

"The problem is, that's a disaster for the environment. All of our work is toward using less energy and then transitioning to renewable forms of energy, and natural gas is not one of those."

Pensacola's relationship with natural gas represents perhaps the city's biggest conflict standing in the way of embracing an environmentally-friendly and progressive approach. And it's not a relationship that's likely to change anytime soon, but that doesn't mean Wagley won't throw it out there.

"What we can't do is just completely avoid talking about it, which is what we've done so far," Wagley said. "The burning of fossil fuels is absolutely on its way out, and we can't continue to dig ourselves in deeper to that. I mean, we're going to get left behind economically and certainly environmentally."

For now, though, it'd be nice to just shoot for the really low-hanging fruit—the fruit already fallen to the ground—and get that greenhouse gas emission baseline established.

"They need to know what they're emitting themselves," Wagley said. "You can't improve on something if you don't know where you are. And right now, the city doesn't know where they are." {in} inweekly.net

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7

THE 'LITTLE ROCK NINE'

Dr. Eurydice Stanley, Elizabeth Eckford and Grace Stanley / Photo by Christian Stanley

By Duwayne Escobedo Nine ordinary teenage students endured hateful mobs, the Arkansas National Guard, racial slurs, spitting in their faces, urination in their lockers, scalding hot water splashed on them in bathrooms, beatings and other cruel acts to attend Central High School in Little Rock.

Why? They wanted the best education they could get. They wanted the best education for future generations.

It was 1957 in the South, and the black youth were committed to integrating public schools, no matter what the personal cost.

Three years earlier, the U.S. Supreme Court Brown vs. Board of Education case presented by attorney Thurgood Marshall abolished the South's racist system of "separate but equal" schools for whites and blacks.

"It was torture every single day—mentally, spiritually and physically," said Dr. Eurydice Stanley, a Pensacola resident and close friend of one of the Little Rock Nine—Elizabeth Eck-

88

ford. "This was not just sweat. It took blood to try and bring about change."

Chief segregationist and Arkansas Gov. Orval Faubus, however, encircled the Central High campus with an armed National Guard and prevented the 14-, 15- and 16-year-old black students from entering the school on Sept. 4, 1957.

The governor predicted, "Blood will run through the streets if negroes attempt to attend Central High."

It took President Dwight D. Eisenhower, a retired five-star Army general, to send 1,200 soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division to allow the students to enter the school and break the color barrier for the first time in history.

They escorted and protected the students for a month with gun-mounted Jeeps and bayonets affixed to their rifles.

Eckford, known as "Auntie" to Stanley's children, Grace and Christian, had made a special dress for her first day at Central High.

The then-15-year-old was both nervous and excited to go to the $15 million school built in 1927 and recognized for its architecture. Over

the front entrance, statues, called "Ambition," "Personality," "Opportunity," and "Preparation," welcomed students.

However, the self-described "introvert" quickly become terrified seeing a mob of 250 angry whites. They chanted, "Two, Four, Six, Eight, we don't want to integrate!"

Nothing welcomed her or her eight other fellow trailblazers that day.

"I wondered who'd be my new friends and if I would receive my desired classes from the school registrar," Eckford said in "The Worst First Day," a book she co-wrote with Stanley and her daughter, Grace.

"Little did I know that I would soon be entering a cauldron of fire."

The episode played out in front of a national and an international stage. It remains one of the most notable non-violent civil rights events in the journey to earn equality. Others include Rosa Park's refusal to ride on the back of the bus in Montgomery, Ala., in 1955; a bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church by the Ku Klux Klan in Birmingham, Ala., in 1963 that killed four black girls; and the 54-mile "Freedom March" from Selma, Ala., to the capital, Montgomery, in 1965 for the right to vote, which was met by violence by authorities and white vigilante groups.

Eckford, one of the nine chosen from more than 200 black applicants, was 100 percent committed to complete the school year, despite the constant barrage of abuse aimed at her.

"I simply could not let down the rest of the Nine and the other students counting on our victory," Eckford said in "The Worst First Day." "Although I spent every day in fear, I had a sense of purpose and knew our effort was honorable. I returned determined to see this effort to the end. If they wanted me out, they'd have to expel me."

Two white friends, Kendall Reinhard and Ann Williams, also gave Eckford inspiration to carry on.

"They saved my life, literally," Eckford said.

One of the nine, Ernest Green, proudly participated in his graduation ceremony that civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and 125 soldiers and police attended.

The Little Rock Nine also included: Minnijean Brown, 16, a junior; Thelma Mothershed, 16, a junior; Melba Pattillo, 15, a junior; Gloria Ray, 15, a junior; Terrence Roberts, 15, a junior; Jefferson Thomas, 15, a sophomore; and Carlotta Wells, 14, a sophomore.

After the school year ended, Eckford reported that more than half of Little Rock Nine families moved because of retaliation. Her mom lost her job at the Arkansas School for the Negro, Deaf and Blind. Central High School closed for a year before being reopened.

For 40 years after being part of the Little Rock Nine, Eckford said she was "traumatized." But she reunited with Reinhard and Williams in 1996 and ever since then has spoken out about her "horrific" experience across the country.

Stanley said Eckford's message inspired her and others to strive to make an impact with their lives.

"She (Eckford) couldn't see the value and beauty of her survival. She didn't think anyone would be interested," Stanley said. "She values everyone's experience.

She says this is what happened. I made it through, and you can, too."

Eckford's story even motivated Stanley's own children—Grace, a 16-year-old sophomore at West Florida High School, and Christian, a 13-year-old eighth grader at Bellview Middle School—to enter the history fair this year with stories about critical civil rights moments that happened in Pensacola.

Stanley said it makes her "sad" that more people have no idea about the struggles Eckford and other black citizens went through for future generations.

"This history is not only African-American; this history is for everyone," Stanley said. "It is American history." {in}

inweekly.net

THE ROLE OF A LIFETIME Odom's one-woman show portraying Bethune began in 2006 when she says friends urged her to audition for the part, drawing on her college experience learning about the performative arts.

"Friends of mine asked me to audition for it, and I didn't even know who she was outside of Bethune-Cookman University and FAMU. When I found out who she was, I was totally impressed, and I applied. They accepted me, and I've been doing it since," she recalled.

Odom says she very much enjoys her life now as a publisher and as a performer portraying Dr. Bethune.

"I had a wonderful career that dealt with the analytical side of my brain, and now I've returned to the creative side of my brain." Odom

Ersula Knox Odom as Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune / Courtesy Photo

By Sydney Robinson After a life full of analytics, entrepreneurship and hard work, Ersula Knox Odom's career has come full circle.

Through portraying the life of an AfricanAmerican woman with a fantastic legacy, Odom is creating a legacy of her own.

As part of WSRE's Public Square Speakers Series, Tampa-based Odom will be portraying the life of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.

In "Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Comes to Life," Odom explores the life of a woman who nurtured African-American education, rights and perceptions in the 20th century. And she will do it all in costume and in character.

"Engaging, thought-provoking and funny at times"—that's how Odom summed up the show.

Because it covers all those bases, Odom says she's confident it appeals to a broad audience.

"From the person who is interested in the educational aspect to the person who wants to be entertained, either one will enjoy it." Ersula Knox Odom "From the person who is interested in the educational aspect to the person who wants to be entertained, either one will enjoy it. It's February 28, 2019

"I'm a very content person right now. I had a wonderful career that dealt with the analytical side of my brain, and now I've returned to the creative side of my brain," Odom said.

Since returning to the creative side, Odom has continued with dozens of performances as Dr. Bethune yearly, most of which occur around and during Black History Month.

In the process of exploring and honoring Bethune's life, Odom says she may have played a part in preserving her legacy in D.C. forever—in the form of a statue that was just recently approved.

"Last year, Senator Nelson presented me with a signed copy of what he read to get that [statue] approved to Congress …

I can't take credit for any of the actions, but I will say that over the years, a lot more people have learned about her because of my performances, and maybe someone was inspired," said Odom. "I don't want to take credit, but I played my role. I did my part."

After over a decade playing the role, Odom says she's still learning more about the amazing woman she portrays.

"She had such a full life that I'm still learning about her. I've only scratched the surface," she said. {in}

intellectual and entertaining and interactive.

[It's for] all ages. Today I spoke to senior citizens; tomorrow I am speaking to elementary school students," Odom told Inweekly.

There's no doubt the event is all of the above and more when you consider how much there is to learn about Dr. Bethune. She was a woman born to slaves who, through intelligence and drive, earned a position at the White House in a time when she wouldn't have been admitted to a soda parlor.

Odom will share stories of Dr. Bethune's role in the Franklin Delano Roosevelt administration, including working on the New Deal and founding his "black cabinet." Bethune also served as president of the National Association of Colored Women and founded and served as president of the National Council of Negro Women.

Mary Riker, WSRE's marketing and communications director, says WSRE's Public Square Speakers Series is devoted to bringing noteworthy voices to town and giving people the chance to experience important perspectives. She thinks Odom's show will do just that.

"Ersula Odom's portrayal of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune on March 5 is timed perfectly to kick off Women's History Month," Riker told Inweekly.

Odom hopes that her event will WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5 raise awareness about an impactful WHERE: Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio woman many don't know much about. at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd.

"Dr. Bethune's story is a legendary COST: Free story and is a national treasure because DETAILS: wsre.org/events she has impacted all of our lives regardless of who you are," Odom said.

WSRE'S PUBLIC SQUARE SPEAKERS SERIES PRESENTS: "DR. MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE COMES TO LIFE"

9

CITY HALL CHANGEOVER At the mayor's press conference on Monday, Feb. 25, City Administrator Chris Holley announced that Mayor Grover Robinson would be replacing 15 key management positions over the next four years.

The list included Assistant Administrator Keith Wilkins, Sanitation Director Dennis Fleming (who is returning to Maryland), Deputy City Attorney Rusty Wells (in a year or so), CFO Dick Barker (a deputy CFO will hired and trained to replace him), Airport Director Dan Flynn (year or so), Risk Manager Tim Mulroy (who has retired and returned), Pensacola Energy Director George Suarez (2022) and Purchasing Manager George Maiberger (2023).

EXCUSES NOT ACCEPTED Proponents and critics of the proposed soccer complex filled the Scenic Heights Elementary School cafeteria on Thursday, Feb. 21, to discuss the proposed deal to build a soccer field near Hitzman Park and swap land with the YMCA (Inweekly, "Soccer Complex Conundrum," Jan. 17).

"We're going to walk in here as Pensacolians; we're going to walk out of here as Pensacolians," Mayor Grover Robinson said.

The mayor tried to explain updates to the proposed project aimed at appeasing neighborhood concerns, such as increased traffic, loss of trees, as well as noise and light pollution. But critics didn't seem too much happier with the updated project than they did with the original.

Mayor Robinson employed a recurring reply to numerous commenters throughout the evening, noting that he only recently came into office and was not on the scene when the project was developed or when city council approved negotiations with the YMCA. "All the things that you say, y'all, I was not there," Robinson explained.

While accurate, the clarification didn't play well in the cafeteria.

"Please do us all the service of not saying you weren't here," said Krista Hobgood. "Because you represent us all now."

Mayor Robinson wasn't the evening's only target of neighborhood ire. City Councilman P.C. Wu, who represents the area, was also taken to task.

"Your silence and lack of response have us feeling unrepresented by you," said Melissa McKnight. "Where do you stand on this proposal?"

Leaving his seat in the back of the cafeteria, Councilman Wu pointed to the city's need for additional soccer fields and said he supported the project. He also lamented what he described as "a lot of disinformation" and noted that the park would be receiving upgrades, like new bathroom facilities.

"My kids grew up in Hitzman Park," Wu said, explaining he lived nearby. "That park is very dear to me."

Toward the end of the meeting, resident Beverley Collier posed an interesting question.

She wondered what would happen if the city and YMCA nixed any potential deal. Would the YMCA remain as is, or would the organization put the property onto the market and open the door to an unknown future?

"If it goes on the market, then who knows, we could be fighting a Taco Bell or Fast Eddies," Collier said.

Michael Bodenhausen, Northwest Florida YMCA CEO, had stood silently against the side wall of the cafeteria for the entire meeting. But the question begged answers only he could provide.

The CEO spoke about how the Y could benefit from moving to the Vickery Center and about how the concept of some sort of land-and-services swap had been kicked around for years.

"This is not something new," Bodenhausen said, explaining how he'd first heard of the concept nine years ago upon coming onto the job. "All we have done is continue that conversation."

Bodenhausen explained that the YMCA had been doing market research, which revealed a couple of interesting data points—some of their services overlapped city services—"it's silly"—and of the facility's 600 members, only five resided in Scenic Heights.

"You also have to understand," he said, "the Y doesn't belong to Scenic Heights. It belongs to Pensacola."

CARPENTER'S CREEK MEMORIES Ora Wills paints a vivid picture of living near Carpenter's Creek before that area of Pensacola was developed into the landscape of malls and hospitals and big-box stores that it is today.

"Sometimes I still dream of walking up and down that strip past Carpenter's Creek and being in those woods and sometimes stretching out on that grass and going to sleep," Wills said.

Wills and other longtime Pensacola residents recalled the former glory of Carpenter's Creek at a town hall held Tuesday, Feb. 19, offering an oral history concerning the creek and providing a peek at its potential as restoration efforts continue.

"For us to restore it, we kind of need to know what it looked like, what it was like before humans started destroying it through development," said Pensacola Councilwoman Sherri Myers, who was joined at the town hall by Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender.

Later in the evening, Emerald Coastkeeper Laurie Murphy provided an overview of restoration efforts aimed at cleaning Carpenter's Creek of silt and debris, but the night's main event was the collective of storytellers seated around a table at the front of the hall in Asbury Place at the Cokesbury United Methodist Church.

Wills, a retired local educator and author of the book "Fish Head Soup and Sassafras Tea," talked about a time when Carpenter's Creek provided a place to both work and play, a place to swim, to cool off from the summer's heat, as well as a place to gather for baptisms or to wash the laundry.

"They were not only washing their own clothes, but they were washing white people's clothes," Wills recalled how her family would work at the creek.

The trek to the creek for young Wills was short, just a quick walk through the woods. As a child, she visited it often.

"My grandfather would say, 'Stay away from down there,' but I wouldn't listen," Wills said.

Wills' great grandmother was known as Aunt Jenny.

"Aunt Jenny had a bunch of beehives in the trees up from the creek," recalled E.B. Williams.

One day, Williams thought it'd be funny to turn the hives over. He thought he'd gotten away with it, too, until he returned home from his venture down to the creek.

"There sat Aunt Jenny on the back stoop talking to my dad," Williams said. "We knew then we were in trouble."

Roger Williams, E.B.'s brother, recalled two different swimming holes along Carpenter's Creek. One of the spots was named Aunt Jenny's Hole.

"Every time we had a softball game," he said, "when we'd get through, we'd go down to the water and take a swim."

Jennette Norman also remembered making trips to that particular deep-water pocket along the creek.

"We would go through that clay pit to the most beautiful, pristine creek. It was called Jenny's Hole," Norman said, describing a thriving swimming spot. "We had swings and logs, you name it, diving boards."

LEARN NEGOTIATION STRATEGIES

Former U.S. Navy Seahawk pilot Laura Tuck Maasdam, a Harvard-trained negotiator and executive performance coach, will teach a half-day workshop in negotiation strategies for women on behalf of the Institute for Women in Politics of Northwest Florida.

The workshop will be held 8:30 a.m.noon, Saturday, March 16, at New World Landing and will be followed by a luncheon featuring local women with professional expertise in negotiation: Gulf Breeze City Manager Samantha Abell, UWF President Emeritus Dr. Judy Bense, NAI Pensacola CEO DeeDee Davis and Wind Creek Public Relations Director Magi Thomley Williams.

The workshop is available to women in the community, though space is limited.

Early-bird registration at $99 per person is available through Feb 28. The cost after that date will be $149 per person. Registration is open online at iwpflorida.org/workshopnegotiation-strategies-for-women/.

NEW PETITION DRIVE Citizens Against

Corporate Welfare today filed the paperwork

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with the City of Pensacola to form a petitioners' committee that will ask the Pensacola City Council to reverse its vote two weeks ago to fund an additional $5 million for the expansion of the Aviation Maintenance Campus at the Pensacola International Airport.

The group, headed by Derek Cosson and Jarah Jacquay, must collect 4,005 signatures—10 percent of Pensacola's registered voters as of the November general election.

They have 60 days to collect the signatures.

If that threshold is met, the council has 45 days to reconsider their action. If they do not reverse vote, a citywide referendum would then be held.

"Let me be clear, this effort is not about opposing the ST Aerospace project as a whole, though we do have grave concerns about the massive amount of risk taxpayers are taking on with this project," Cosson said. "But this petition drive is about drawing a red line and saying that our infrastructure needs are just too critical for us to rob our LOST fund."

OPEN RUSSIA MOVEMENT Four young men who are members of opposing political parties in the Moscow area said Russia and President Donald Trump did join forces in the 2016 elections in the United States.

Former FBI director Robert Mueller lead a Special Counsel investigation into Russian operatives cooperating with Trump associates since May 2017.

Ruzil Mingalimor, an Open Russia Movement elected official and manager of an independent media outlet, said American authorities should punish Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"We do believe there was interference in American politics," Mingalimor said through a translator at a Gulf Coast Citizen Diplomacy Council meeting Thursday attended by about two dozen people.

Alexander Chernyorsky, a 32-yearold member of the Solidarity Movement, agreed with Mingalimor.

"This time, America must take real steps, not just token sanctions," Chernyorsky said. "They must affect the (Russian) people guilty of these actions."

The Russians spoke in Pensacola as part of the U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program that has invited private and public leaders to America since 1940. Used as a way to increase communications and understanding, more than 500 ILVP alumni now head or used to head various governments, such as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of India.

Russians involved in their country's political system said Thursday that the Communist Party continues to block opposition parties from participation in national, state and city elections.

Chernyorsky, a political consultant, said his candidates were barred from advertising at apartment complexes. So, he would send out bicyclists in the middle of the night to put February 28, 2019

up flyers without permission. The state would then send its people out to rip them down.

"It became like a game," he said.

Oleg Khomutinnikor said he plans to run for governor as an Open Russia Movement candidate in his jurisdiction, one of about 85 in Russia. However, to get on the ballot, he must get the signatures of 20 council members, all part of the ruling Communist party.

"There are no real elections," Khomutinnikor said. "It's all negotiations with the Kremlin."

Alexey Kalitvinov pointed out that the Open Russia Movement began during the 2016 elections and in roughly two years has built a network across Russia with citizens running in each of the jurisdictions. In 2017, he said, about 12 candidates earned election during Moscow's local elections. The Kremlin took notice and fined and indicted its opposition members.

"Early on, the government didn't notice our movement," Kalitvinov said. "Now, we are observing more pressure on the movement. It has been a success story."

FLORIDAWEST BOARD OPENINGS

The Escambia County Commission is seeking Escambia County residents interested in volunteering to be considered for an appointment on the FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance Board of Directors.

Residents interested are asked to submit a resume and letter indicating their desire to serve by close of business Tuesday, March 5. Resumes should be submitted to Judy Witterstaeter, Program Coordinator, Board of County Commissioners, P.O. Box 1591, Pensacola, FL 32502, or emailed to jhwitter@myescambia.com. The resumes submitted for consideration are subject to public record requests.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Women for Responsible Legislation will hold their monthly meeting 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 28, at Pensacola City Hall. The speaker will be Escambia County Superintendent Malcolm Thomas. Refreshments are served at 11:15 a.m.

Trinity Presbyterian Annual Rummage Sale returns 7 a.m.-1p.m., Saturday, March 2, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3400 Bayou Blvd.

The Preview Night is 5-7 p.m., Friday, March 1.

Pilot Club of Pensacola is hosting its 39th annual Pancake Festival 7-11 a.m., Saturday, March 2, at Ashbury Place, Cokesbury Methodist Church. Meal tickets are $5.

Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Pensacola will host its Pitch, Hit & Run event 9 a.m. Saturday, March 2, at Raymond Riddle Park, 1704 N. W St. Registration is free for boys and girls aged 7-14.

The competition consists of three events: hitting off a stationary batting tee, pitching and running the bases. Registration is available at pitchhitrun.com. {in} 11

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By Sydney Robinson

If you've somehow missed the purple, green and gold decor around town and all the local bakeries selling king cakes, you might need a reminder—it's officially Mardi Gras time.

Better late than never, huh?

Mardi Gras is scheduled particularly late this year because the date is determined by Easter since it signals the beginFebruary 28, 2019

ning of Lent. But it's finally time to let the good times roll, starting this Friday with the Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Parade.

And if you're tired of sitting on the sidelines and not catching any fancy beads (looking at you, Mardi Gras 2018), maybe it's time for you to form your own krewe or join an established one.

Though places like New Orleans and

Mobile boast the largest and oldest Mardi Gras events respectively, it seems as if Pensacola may be making a run for the title of most approachable. That is, if you are an eager partier looking to make your crew of friends into a real-life krewe, you can still do so with relative ease.

According to Danny Zimmern, president of Pensacola Mardi Gras Inc., all you

technically need to begin your own krewe is a few friends, some cash and willingness to deal with a little paperwork.

"You could get a group of a few friends together, pay your entry fee, get insurance and get in the parade and be a Mardi Gras krewe. There are no rules to make a krewe.

It's what the organizers want them to be."

It's actually as simple as that.

13

If you do decide to make your own krewe one year, you will be joining approximately 6,000 Pensacola-area residents who parade up and down the streets of downtown and on the beach yearly.

No friends? No cool theme idea? No problem.

Those interested in getting into the local Mardi Gras scene can also opt to join one of the 90-plus krewes already in operation. Each has their own rules, their own dress code and their own reason for the season.

Zimmern points out that while some krewes are easier to join, others have a more selective process.

"There are some krewes that are very hard to get into. They can be very exclusive and very expensive with entree fees. There's applications, rules and dress codes."

Of course, for some, the dress code is half of the fun.

One of the most well-dressed krewes around town is the Krewe of Gatsby Girls.

Their theme requires them to channel Daisy Buchanan with pearls, beads and other symbols of 1920s-era decadence.

Downtown bar owner Katie Garrett is currently one of the krewes' 130 members and was a founding member when they formed in 2014.

"Being a Pensacola native, Mardi Gras was always a fun weekend to head downtown with friends," said Garrett.

"My favorite part of parade weekend was walking down the lineup and seeing all the floats and krewe members letting loose for a few days."

"My favorite part of parade weekend was walking down the lineup and seeing all the floats and krewe members letting loose for a few days." Katie Garrett Garrett says she was recruited to be a founding member of the organization and had very unique criteria for joining.

"When I was approached about joining Gatsby, the very first question I asked was, 'What will the attire be?' Her answer, 'Mostly pearls, fur, sequins, etc.' My response—'Where do I sign up?'"

Another woman-only, theme-heavy krewe

is Krewe of Hip Huggers. Their focus is on female fellowship and groovy 1960s-mod attire.

"In 2009, I chose to join Krewe of Hip Huggers because of the friendships that I had with existing krewe members," krewe Social Media Chair Whitney Fike told Inweekly.

Like Garrett, Fike enjoys the strong fashion theme that drives her krewe.

"We host our annual Krewe of Hip Huggers Ball each year, and it's decorated with all things '60s and mod related—like flashy rings, peace signs and go-go boots.

Our togetherness does not end when Mardi Gras season is over, as we host events and meetings throughout the year to bring our krewe closer and form bonds we would have not had otherwise," Fike said.

While casual attendees of Mardi Gras are familiar with the parties and parades, they're probably less familiar with the more philanthropic angle of the krewes.

supplies and around the holidays, collecting winter weather gear like coats, gloves and shoes. It has been rewarding to see the impact we can give to the community."

Fike says outside of the charitable aspect of her krewe, it is the close bond she has formed with her fellow Hip Huggers that makes it all worthwhile.

"The women in the Krewe of Hip Huggers are some of the most caring, giving, inspirational and supportive women," she said.

For Garrett, the yearly tradition of Mardi Gras with her Gatsby Girls a special one, and she encourages anyone curious to give it a try.

"If you have always debated joining a krewe, do it. Try it for a year at least. I never thought I would be a 'krewe type of person,' but I have truly enjoyed being a part of an organization that dresses up and throws a party to make a difference in our community," Garrett said. {in}

MARDI GRAS 2019 EVENTS

"Almost all krewes [in Pensacola] have a charity or nonprofit portion of their mission like breast cancer or Manna Food Pantry." Danny Zimmern "Almost all krewes [in Pensacola] have a charity or nonprofit portion of their mission," said Zimmern, "like breast cancer or Manna Food Pantry. It's up to each krewe to pick a passion. There are several krewes whose mission it is to help all nonprofits.

They go to events and volunteer; they go buy tables at formal events. The krewes here do all sorts of things," he said.

For the Gatsby Girls, that focus has most often been on children.

"Every year at our annual Speakeasy Ball, we give a portion of the proceeds to a different local nonprofit," said Garrett.

Past recipients have been Gulf Coast Kid's House, Ronald McDonald House of NWFL and more.

The Hip Huggers, too, are investing in children on the Gulf Coast.

"This year, we adopted Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida as our notfor-profit," said Fike. "Our krewe members helped 'littles' before school started by purchasing backpacks and back-to-school

Photo by Phil Bailey

FRIDAY 3.1

OFFICIAL MARDI GRAS PRE-PARTY WITH NFL GUEST BARTENDERS 5-8 p.m. Perfect

Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco

KREWE OF LAFITTE MARDI GRAS PARADE

6:30 p.m. Spring and Garden Streets.

SATURDAY 3.2

MARDI GRAS PARTY ON THE PALAFOX BALCONY 1:30-5:30 p.m. $45. So Gourmet,

407-D S. Palafox. sogourmetpensacola.com PENSACOLA GRAND MARDI GRAS PARADE 1-5 p.m. Spring and Garden Streets.

pensacolamardigras.com

SUNDAY 3.3

LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER AT JACKSON'S 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Jackson's Steakhouse,

400 S. Palafox. greatsouthernrestaurants.com

KREWE OF WRECKS MARDI GRAS PARADE 2

p.m. Via de Luna Drive, from Avenida 10 to Casino Beach parking lot, Pensacola Beach. pensacolabeachmardigras.com

TUESDAY 3.5

FAT TUESDAY POP-UP PARADES & PRISCUS Parades start at 4:30 p.m. Crowing

of King and Queen at 7 p.m. pensacolamardigras.com MARDI GRAS FAT TUESDAY STREET PARTY 5 p.m. Palafox and Government

Streets. pensacolamardigras.com

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WEEK OF FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 6

Arts & Entertainment Tank You for Being a Friend art, film, music, stage, books and other signs of civilization...

By Jennifer Leigh

Allenback said Ball fits right into this trend and is on the "forefront" of women making their mark in music.

As a band, Allenback says performing is euphoric. Even after non-stop touring, it hasn't gotten old.

"The groove we get into...the experience feels so good it's like the feeling you get from drugs or meditation," he said.

"There's nothing like it."

"We know we have a purpose. We want to do this to take care of ourselves and our family. We want to continue to make music for the rest of our lives." Allenback

Photo by Nick Spanos

Chances are you became a fan of Tank and the Bangas when you caught their 2017 NPR Tiny Desk Contest video submission.

Filmed inside a school classroom, the band quickly got together to film a lively performance of their song "Quick." It was an impromptu decision, said saxophone player Albert Allenback.

"We kind of dragged our feet with it," he said over the phone during a stop on tour, which will come to Pensacola on Thursday, March 7. "And then (someone) just said, 'Be at this school and this classroom.' We filmed in between school bells."

To date, that video has more than a million views on YouTube. And out of 6,000 video submissions that year, the New Orleans-based band was named the winner of NPR's annual contest.

Prior to that, the band had some regional recognition and a 2013 debut album, "Think Tank." But winning the NPR Tiny Desk Concert was "like Christmas," Allenback said.

"When (NPR host) Bob Boilen called to tell us we won, I just laid down on my floor.

I knew how big this was," he added.

February 28, 2019

While the Tank and the Bangas mission is still the same, there's been an obvious shift for the band. The venues are bigger and fuller. They released an official music video for the song "Spaceships," which will appear on an upcoming album later this year. And before they land in Pensacola, they will have finished several shows around Europe.

"Nora Jones texts her (Tank) 'Happy Birthday,'" Allenback said with a laugh. Chances are that wasn't a regular thing before 2017.

While New Orleans is rich with talented musicians, they didn't have trouble finding a fan base even before their Tiny Desk victory.

"The New Orleans scene has ridiculously amazing musicians, and it can be hard to stand out, but we have Tank." Albert Allenback "The New Orleans scene has ridiculously amazing musicians, and it can be hard to stand out," Allenback said. "But we have Tank."

Now with more fans and exposure, there can sometimes be more pressure to keep cranking out new music. Instead, Allenback said the band is focused on being present.

"We're learning and growing, and we've learned to deal with the pressure," he said.

"We know we have a purpose. We want to do this to take care of ourselves and our family. We want to continue to make music for the rest of our lives."

The purpose right now is bringing their high energy to their live shows. This will be the band's first performance in Pensacola, although not their first time visiting. Allenback himself is from Montgomery, Ala., and his sister lives in Pensacola.

Whether you're seeing Tank and the Bangas for the first time or you're a longtime fan, Allenback has very specific expectations for the show.

"Hopefully it's like George Clinton directed a Disney movie and Metallica scored it," he said. "We go to a lot of different places. We've never done shows the same way." {in}

Lead vocalist and songwriter Tarriona "Tank" Ball is the charismatic frontwoman of the group. Her background includes singing in the choir with her sisters and performing slam poetry. She even won the National Poetry Slam Championship two years in a row.

In 2011, Tank and the Bangas was formed after an open mic session. The Bangas include Allenback, Norman Spence on synth keys and bass, Merell Burkett on keyboards and Joshua Johnson on drums.

In case you've somehow missed it, strong females are currently having a moment in music. Cardi B was the first woman to win Best Rap Album last month at the Grammys. Janelle Monรกe has received nothing but praise for her 2018 concept album "Dirty Computer." And WHAT: Tank and the Bangas with Maggie Koerner Ariana Grande's new album, and Alfred Banks "thank u, next," set all kinds WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 7 of records when it dropped WHERE: Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. in early February, includCOST: $20 ing streaming milestones DETAILS: tankandthebangas.com or vinylmusichall.com and debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

TANK AND THE BANGAS

15

calendar parking lot, 400 Pensacola Beach Blvd. oceanhourfl.com THE GULF COAST RENAISSANCE FAIRE AND PIRATE FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Santa Rosa

Fairgrounds, 8604 Bobby Brown Road, Milton. gcrf.us COMPUTER BASICS Noon. Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. mywfpl.com THE MADD HATTTER'S TEA PARTAY Noon-3 p.m. Henny Penny's Patisserie, 4412 W. Jackson. facebook.com/hennypennyspatisserie GNOSTIC MYTH AND LITERATURE 2-4 p.m.

Free, public invited. Ever'man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. WALKING CEMETERY TOURS 5:30 p.m. $12 plus tax. St. John's Historic Cemetery, 301 N. G St. goretro.us DROPKICK MURPHYS 6 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com HOE CAKE THROWDOWN 6 p.m. Barkley House, 410 S. Florida Blanca St.

THURSDAY 2.28

YOGA WITHIN REACH 9-10 a.m. Free. Commu-

nity Health Northwest Florida, 2315 W. Jackson St., Room A. healthcarewithinreach.org ONE-ON-ONE TECH HELP 11 a.m. Molino Branch Library, 6450-A Highway 95A. mywfpl.com SWAN DAY PENSACOLA 2019 1 p.m. $10.

Support Women Artists Now. Live Juice Bar, 532 Garden St. MINI GOLF TOURNAMENT 4:30-9 p.m. $20$25. First Tee of Northwest Florida's Goofy Golf, 3924 W. Navy Blvd. keeppensacolabeautiful.charityproud.org ENERGY HEALING AND MEDITATION 6 p.m.

Free. Ever'man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org LATIN DANCE CLASSES 6:30-9 p.m. $10.

Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha and more. Professional dance instruction for all skill levels.

No partner required. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftstudios.com AWM WINE TASTING 5-7 p.m. Free. Aragon Wine Market, 27 S. 9th Ave. facebook.com/ aragonwine END OF THE LINE THURSDAY DINNER 6-9 p.m. End of the Line Café, 610 E. Wright St. Sign up for the newsletter for menu. eotlcafe.com DR. DOG 7 p.m. $20. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com

FRIDAY 3.1

ONE-ON-ONE TECH HELP 10 a.m. Pensacola

Library, 239 N. Spring St. mywfpl.com

COX DIAMOND INVITATIONAL 2-6 p.m.

Through March 3. $11-$27. Wahoos Stadium, 351 W. Cedar St. pensacolasports. org/coxdiamondinvitational HAPPY HOUR COOKOUTS 5 p.m. Drink spe616 1

cials, free cookout. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com GARDEN AND GRAIN CRAFT CLUB 5 p.m.

Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco FIRST FRIDAY AT BARE HAND COLLECTIVE 6 p.m. Local vendors. Bare Hand Collective, 2370 N. Palafox. facebook.com/barehandco DATE NIGHT DANCE CLASSES 6:30-8 p.m. $8.

Learn several romantic ballroom dance styles in unique group classes. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftstudios.com STRANGELOVE-THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO DEPECHE MODE 7 p.m. $15. Vinyl Music

Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com OPEN MIC 7-11 p.m. Café Single Fin, 380 N. 9th Ave. facebook.com/cafesinglefin WHITE TIE ROCK ENSEMBLE 8 p.m. $28-$38.

Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. pensacolasaenger.com

SATURDAY 3.2

PARKRUN/WALK MEETUP 7:30 a.m. University

of West Florida, Rec Plex North Field, 11000 University Parkway. parkrun.us/recplexnorth PALAFOX MARKET 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art and antiques. 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 SANTA ROSA FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh local produce, honey, baked goods and live music. Pace Presbyterian Church, Woodbine Road.

OCEAN HOUR CLEAN-UPS 9-10 a.m. Two sites: Naval Live Oaks, National Seashore, 1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway; South end of Bob Sikes Bridge at the Grand Marlin

HIP-HOP & CONTEMPORARY DANCE CLASSES 8-9 p.m. $5. Learn amazing moves from

professional instructors. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftstudios.com

TUESDAY 3.5

7 p.m. $39. Pensacola Cooks, 3672 Barrancas Ave. pensacolacooks.rezclick.com TRAP N' PAINT850 7-10 p.m. $35. Asher & Bee Apothecary and Tea House, 7 E. Gregory St. facebook.com/asherandbee CELTIC WOMEN: ANCIENT LAND 7:30 p.m. $43-$153. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. pensacolasaenger.com IMPROVABLE CAUSE 10:30 p.m. $11. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. pensacolalittletheatre.com

YOGA WITHIN REACH 9-10 a.m. Free. Community Health Northwest Florida, 2315 W. Jackson St., Room A. healthcarewithinreach.org HOMEMADE PASTA TUESDAY Noon-1 p.m. $10. So Gourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. sogourmetpensacola.com TRYON FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT 4 p.m. Tryon Branch Library, 1200 Langley Ave. mywfpl.com COMPLIMENTARY WINE TASTING 4-6 p.m.

So Gourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. sogourmetpensacola.com WALKING CEMETERY TOURS 5:30 p.m. $12 plus tax. St. John's Historic Cemetery, 301 N. G St. goretro.us FUNKY YOGA 6 p.m. Free. Ever'man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org MOLINO MELODIES 6 p.m. Learn to play mountain dulcimer. Molino Branch Library, 6450-A Highway 95A COUNTRY DANCE CLASSES 6:30 p.m. $10.

Country two-step, East Coast swing, competition choreography and more. No partner required. World championship dance instruction for all skill levels. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftstudios.com

SUNDAY 3.3

WSRE PUBLIC SQUARE LECTURE SERIES: ERSULA KNOX ODOM 7 p.m. Free. Jean & Paul

CULTURES COOK: FILIPINO COMFORT FOOD

Dr. Dog / Photo by Louis Kwok

Fine and Performing Arts, Bldg. 82, 11000 University Parkway. uwf.edu

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.

BRUNCH WITH LIVE MUSIC 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Café Single Fin, 380 N. 9th Ave. facebook. com/cafesinglefin TRANSMISSION GROUP WORLD SERVICE MEDITATION 10:30 a.m. Free. Ever'man

Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org VEGAN BRUNCH 11 a.m.-2 p.m. End of the Line Café, 610 E. Wright St. Sign up for the newsletter for menu. eotlcafe.com SUNDAY BRUNCH AT H20 11 a.m. $28.95 for adults. Free valet parking and 15 percent off with local ID. H20 Hilton, 12 Via de Luna Drive. facebook.com/hiltonpensacolabeach VEGAN AND VINO SUNDAYS 4-7 p.m.

Skopelos at New World, 600 S. Palafox SWING DANCE CLASSES 4-7 p.m. $10. Professional West Coast swing instruction for all levels. No partner required. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftstudios.com

MONDAY 3.4

RESUME HELP 11 a.m. Molino Branch Li-

brary, 6450-A Highway 95A. mywfpl.com

PILATES MAT 1:30 p.m. Free. Ever'man

Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org SEVILLE QUARTER MILERS 6 p.m. Runners meet in front of Seville Quarter for a run around downtown Pensacola. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com PIANIST IVO KALTCHEV 7:30 p.m. $7-$18.

Free for UWF students. UWF Center for

Amos Theatre, 1000 College Blvd. wsre.org 'THE GOONIES' SCREENING 7 p.m. $5 (cash only). The Rex Theatre, 18 N. Palafox. pensacolacinemaart.com COMEDY NIGHT 7 p.m. Swan Neck Meadery, 2115 W. Nine Mile Road. swanneckwinery.com

WEDNESDAY 3.6

UWF CHAMBER MUSIC: SPRING CELEBRATION Noon. Free. Old Christ Church, 405

South Adams St. uwf.edu

ONE-ON-ONE TECH HELP Noon. Molino

Branch Library, 6450-A Highway 95A. mywfpl.com ONE-ON-ONE TECH HELP 3 p.m. Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. mywfpl.com MEDITATION: SET IT AND GET IT 6:30-7:30 p.m. Asher & Bee Apothecary and Tea Hose, 7 E. Gregory St. facebook.com/asherandbee YOGA FLOW 6-7 p.m. Free. Ever'man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. everman.org HANDS-ON COOKING CLASS: CAST IRON FILET MIGNON AND BLACKENED SHRIMP 6-8

p.m. $70.06. So Gourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. sogourmetpensacola.com SWING DANCE CLASSES AND PARTY 6:3010 p.m. $10 lesson, $5 party. Professional West Coast swing instruction for all levels followed by fun and friendly social dancing on the best wood dance floor in the area.

No partner required. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftstudios.com K CAMP 7 p.m. $20. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com FREE DANCE LESSONS 8-8:30 p.m. Free. Beginner West Coast swing dance lesson. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola S. Blvd. dancecraftfl.com inweekly.net

@VOLUMEONESALON February 28, 2019

17

calendar Arts & Culture

≥Current Exhibits

≥Events

At Jefferson St. and Main St. pensacolamuseum.org

PMA GALLERY TOURS

2:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Free with museum admission. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org

AESTHETICS OF DECADENCE: THE PRINTS OF AUBREY BEARDSLEY OPENING RECEPTION 6-8

p.m. Friday, March 1.

Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org YOGA WITH NANCY LANASA 5:30-6:30

p.m. Monday, March 4. Cost is museum admission, free for PMA members.

Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org

INSIDE OUT: THE PEOPLE'S ART PROJECT

ARCHITECTURE FOR TRAVELERS On view

through March. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org CASITA On view through March. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org GESCHE WÜRFEL: WHAT REMAINS OF THE DAY- MEMORIES OF WORLD WAR II

On view through March 17. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org ADORN On view through March 23.

Blue Morning Gallery, 21 S. Palafox. bluemorninggallery. com

AUBREY BEARDSLEY

CULTURE On view

ART BY DIANE BRIM AND KATHY BREAZEALE On view

COTTON FIELDS TO CONGRESS: THE LIFE AND CAREER OF EARL HUTTO On view at

On view through May 5. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org

through May 12. Luna Fine Art Gallery, Hilton Pensacola Beach, 12 Via de Luna Drive. lunafineartgallery.com

DOCUFLORIDA II

On view through May 17. T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, 330 S. Jefferson St. historicpensacola.org BEAUTY IN USE: CELEBRATING JAPANESE CULTURAL TRADITIONS On

view through June 27.

Lamar Studio Switzer Center, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. pensacolastate.edu PUNKSACOLA: REFLECTIONS OF A SUB-

through July 2019. T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, 330 S. Jefferson St. historicpensacola.org

the T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, 330 S. Jefferson St. historicpensacola.org GALLERY DAYS Noon4 p.m. Saturdays.

Featuring local artists.

To be featured, contact Angel at 941-735-4586 or call the restaurant at 4770035. TGI Fridays, 1240 Airport Blvd.

≥Workshops & Classes

POTTERY ON THE WHEEL Six-week

workshops are held Tuesdays from 6-9 p.m., Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-noon, Thursdays from 6-9

p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon at First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. Cost is $157.25 for members and $185 for non-members.

For more information, visit firstcityart.org.

INTRODUCTION TO POTTERY ON THE WHEEL Every Monday

from 6-8:30 p.m. at First City Art Center.

Classes are $40. For more information, visit firstcityart.org.

CLAY HAND BUILDING Six-week

workshops are held Tuesdays from 6-9 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon at First City Art Center.

Cost is $157.25 for members and $185 for non-members.

For more information, visit firstcityart.org.

CLAY SCULPTURE

Six-week workshops held Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon at First City Art Center.

Cost is $157.25 for members and $185 for non-members.

For more information, visit firstcityart.org.

≥Call for Artists

65TH ANNUAL MEMBERS OF PMA JURIED EXHIBITION

The UWF Pensacola Museum of Art invites artists, makers, designers and creative thinkers from our member community to submit artworks to MoPMA 2019 for the 65th Annual Members of PMA Juried Exhibition. This exhibition seeks to generate community dialogue, foster creative expression and thought and recognize the support of our member community.

MoPMA 2019 is the 65th Annual Members of PMA Exhibition and is open to PMA members

working in all media and subject matter.

You may become a member when you enter. Submissions due by March 7, 2019, at midnight. Selected artists will be notified via email indicating which artwork by March 11, 2019. Selected artwork dropoff daytime March 19 and 20, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony will be April 5, 6-8 p.m. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

GREAT GULFCOAST ARTS FESTIVAL LOOKING FOR EMERGING ARTISTS Applica-

tions are open for the GGAF Emerging Artists program. This program, developed in partnership with

Artel Gallery, gives new artists a chance to be a part of the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival and offers them guidance in what is involved in being in an arts festival. Applications are open to artists who have limited experience participating in arts festivals and are residents of Escambia or Santa Rosa Counties. Two artists will be chosen to participate in this year's festival. GGAF will waive fees for the two artists and will provide a booth and mentor to help guide them through the process. For more information and an application, visit ggaf. org. The GGAF is Nov. 1, 2 and 3, 2019, in Seville Square.

for more listings visit inweekly.net

Pensacolalittletheatre.com

850-432-2042

The Velveteen Rabbit is presented by special arrangement with Dramatic Publishing Inc., Woodstock, Illinois.

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For Your Specialty

By Jennifer Leigh

A Different Kind of V-Day

When Julie Still-Rolin found out there was an opportunity to host a local performance of "The Vagina Monologues," she didn't hesitate.

The owner of Evolve 'n Thrive—an event-hosting company for LGBTQ events— performed in the show in college. It made an impact on how she viewed the female experience. She appreciated the way it presented issues in a "matter-of-fact, this-is-my-experience way," she explained over email.

"No matter how much time has passed since its debut, this show is timeless as it addresses where we've been and where we are," she said. "While women have made many strides towards equality, we still face adversity."

For more than 20 years, "The Vagina Monologues" has been performed across the world on Feb. 14 as part of V-Day, a global movement to end violence against women. V-Day was established as a nonprofit by the play's writer, Eve Ensler, who allows groups around the world to perform "Monologues" and donate proceeds to causes that meet the V-Day mission.

While the show won't be on Feb. 14, Pensacola's production of "The Vagina Monologues" will benefit Lakeview Center's sexual violence and victim's services programs as it did in years past.

"They have a strong focus on non-judg-

February 28, 2019

tory language," said Still-Rolin. "Cis-men are in a position to positively influence the change that is needed to end violence against women. I believe that this support starts with understanding, and 'The Vagina Monologues' provides an excellent conversation starter and means of understanding."

Still-Rolin said she believes positive change can come from sharing stories and speaking up and out—much of what "The Vagina Monologues" about. And with Sexual Assault Awareness Month coming up in April, there's no better time to create change.

"The audience can create positive change by supporting each other, sharing their stories, speaking up for themselves and others and actively supporting and/or participating in programs that work towards ending violence against all women," she said.

There are some misconceptions about the show, Still-Rolin admits. It's not abrasive, but rather funny. And it's not vulgar, but at times brutally honest. Yet there's really no way to grasp the show without seeing it.

"The reactions that I get when I talk about 'The Vagina Monologues' are so funny because people are simply not accustomed to saying the word vagina in public, much less thinking about talking about vaginas," said Still-Rolin. "I've even had people ask me if the show is a bunch of women dressed in vagina costumes, and I answer, 'You should come and see for yourself.'" {in}

mental and non-discriminatory practices," said Still-Rolin. "This is very important for the LGBTQ community as we still lack discrimination protection in many areas, and LGBTQ people face unique factors relating to violence and treatment."

As uncomfortable as the subject matter can be—the play explores topics like consensual and nonconsensual sex, body image and sex work—it's an opportunity to learn about the experiences of all women.

Still-Rolin said she hopes the audience recognizes the issue that violence against women isn't always physical.

"Physical violence is rampant and detrimental to women, but emotional and mental abuse is often more prevalent and damaging as the negativity gets ingrained into women's psyche," she said. "No violence against women should be tolerated, ranging from subtle insults to sexual harassment in the workplace, WHAT: A production of Eve Ensler's play, from controlling and suppressing your hosted by Evolve 'n Thrive Events and benefitpartner to physically abusing her." ing Lakeview Center's sexual violence and More importantly, the show is a victim's services programs good learning experience for men, WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, March 2 so bring your male friends.

WHERE: Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox "The show is very revealing to men COST: $10 because it gives them the opportuDETAILS: evolventhrive.com nity to see the way that they affect women without divisive or accusa-

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19

free will astrology Week of February 28

EATS, DRINKS & SMILES BIG ASS SMILES @THEMAGNOLIAEPH NOW OPEN ON SUNDAYS

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): South Koreans work too hard. Many are on the job for 14 hours a day, six days a week. That's why a new concept in vacations has emerged there.

People take sabbaticals by checking into Prison Inside Me, a facility designed like a jail. For a while, they do without cell phones and internet and important appointments. Freed of normal stresses and stripped of obsessive concerns, they turn inward and recharge their spiritual batteries. I'd love to see you treat yourself to a getaway like this—minus the incarceration theme, of course. You'd benefit from a quiet, spacious, low-pressure escape.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): The astrol-

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ogy column you're reading is published in periodicals in four countries—the U.S., Canada, Italy and France. In all of these places, women have had a hard time acquiring political power.

Neither the U.S. nor Italy has ever had a female head of government. France has had one, Édith Cresson, who served less than a year as prime minister. Canada has had one, Kim Campbell, who was in office for 132 days.

That's the bad news. The good news is that the coming months will be a more favorable time than usual to boost feminine authority and enhance women's ability to shape our shared reality. And you Tauruses of all genders will be in prime position to foster that outcome. Homework—meditate on specific ways you could contribute, even if just through your personal interactions.

The good news is that the coming months will be a more favorable time than usual to boost feminine authority and enhance women's ability to shape our shared reality.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): A 19-year-old

guy named Anson Lemmer started a job as a pizza delivery man in Glenwood, Colo. On his second night, he arrived with a hot pizza at a house where an emergency was in progress.

A man was lying on the ground in distress.

Having been trained in CPR, Lemmer leaped to his rescue and saved his life. I expect that you, too, will perform a heroic act sometime soon, Gemini—maybe not as monumental as Lemmer's, but nonetheless impressive. And I bet it will have an enduring impact, sending out reverberations that redound to your benefit for quite some time.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): Scientist Michael Dillon was shocked when he learned that some bees can buzz around at lofty altitudes where the oxygen is sparse. He and a colleague even found two of them at 29,525 feet—higher than Mt. Everest. How could the bees fly in such thin air? They "didn't beat their wings faster," according to a report in National Geographic, but rather "swung their wings through a wider arc." I propose that we 020 2

By Rob Brezsny

regard these high-flying marvels as your soul animals for the coming weeks. Metaphorically speaking, you will have the power and ingenuity and adaptability to go higher than you've been in a long time.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): Do you find it a challenge to commit to an entirely plantbased diet? If so, you might appreciate flexitarianism, which is a less-perfectionist approach that focuses on eating vegetables but doesn't make you feel guilty if you eat a bit of meat now and then. In general, I recommend you experiment with a similar attitude toward pretty much everything in the coming weeks.

Be strong-minded, idealistic, willful and intent on serving your well-being—but without being a maniacal purist.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): If you gorge

on sugary treats and soft drinks, you ingest a lot of empty calories. They have a low nutrient density and provide you with a scant amount of minerals, vitamins, protein and other necessities. Since I am committed to helping you treat yourself with the utmost respect, I always discourage you from that behavior. But I'm especially hopeful you will avoid it during the next three weeks, both in the literal and metaphorical senses. Please refrain from absorbing barren, vacant stuff into the sacred temple of your mind and body—including images, stories, sounds, and ideas, as well as food and drink.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): Charles Grey

was the second Earl of Grey, as well as prime minister of England from 1830 to 1834. His time in office produced pivotal changes, including the abolition of slavery, reform of child labor laws and more democracy in the nation's electoral process. But most people today know nothing of those triumphs.

Rather, he is immortalized for the Earl Grey tea that he made popular. I suspect that in the coming weeks, one of your fine efforts may also get less attention than a more modest success. But don't worry about it. Instead, be content with congratulating yourself for your excellent work. I think that's the key to you ultimately getting proper appreciation for your bigger accomplishment.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): At a young age, budding Scorpio poet Sylvia Plath came to a tough realization—"I can never read all the books I want," she wrote in her journal. "I can never be all the people I want and live all the lives I want. I can never train myself in all the skills I want. And what do I want? I want to live and feel all the shades, tones and variations of mental and physical experience possible in life." Judging by current astrological omens, I can imagine you saying something like that right now. I bet your longing for total immersion in life's pleasures is especially intense and a bit frustrating. But I'm pleased to predict that in the next four weeks, you'll be able to live and feel more shades, tones and variations of experience than you have in a long time.

America, they displaced many indigenous people from their ancestral lands. There were a few notable exceptions, including five tribes in what's now Maine and Eastern Canada.

They are known as the Wabanaki Confederacy: the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Micmac, Maliseet and Abenaki. Although they had to adjust to and compromise with colonialism, they were never defeated by it. I propose we make them your heroic symbols for the coming weeks. May their resilient determination to remain connected to their roots and origins motivate you to draw ever-fresh power from your own roots and origins.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): Capricorn javelin thrower Julius Yego won a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. How did he get so skilled? Not in the typical way. He gained preliminary proficiency while competing for his high school team, but after graduation, he was too poor to keep developing his mastery. So, he turned to YouTube, where he studied videos by great javelin throwers to benefit from their training strategies and techniques. Now that you're in an intense learning phase of your cycle, Capricorn, I suggest that you, too, be ready to draw on sources that may be unexpected or unusual or alternative.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): The first

edition of "Action Comics," which launched the story of the fictional character Superman, cost 10 cents in 1938. Nowadays, it's worth $3 million. I'll make a bold prediction that you, too, will be worth considerably more on December 31, 2019, than you are right now. The increase won't be as dramatic as that of the Superman comic, but still, I expect a significant boost. And what you do in the next four weeks could have a lot to do with making my prediction come true.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): Until the 16th century in much of Europe and the 18th century in Britain, the new year was celebrated in March. That made sense given the fact that the weather was growing noticeably warmer and it was time to plant the crops again. In my astrological opinion, the month of March is still the best time of year for you Pisceans to observe your personal new year. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to start fresh in any area of your life. If you formulate a set of New Year's resolutions, you're more likely to remain committed to them than if you had made them on January 1. {in} THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: Write a short essay on "How I Created Something Out of Nothing." Go to realastrology.com and click on "Email Rob."

Rob Brezsny freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com © Copyright 2019 Rob Brezsny freewillastrology.com

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): When

Europeans invaded and occupied North

inweekly.net

February 28, 2019

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DIFFERENCE MAKERS

CHAMBER HONORS REGION’S BUSINESS, COMMUNITY LEADERS AT PACE AWARDS The Greater Pensacola Chamber announced its 59th annual PACE Award recipients during a special one-night event at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front. Each year, the PACE Awards are presented to outstanding individuals in our area who have made significant contributions to Greater Pensacola’s economic, educational, and community progress.

“It is a privilege to honor these fine individuals who have done so much to move our region forward,” said Greater Pensacola Chamber Board Chairman Steve Moorhead. “We are truly blessed to have this collection of leaders in our community.”

The 2019 PACE Award winners are: Emerging Leader of the Year: Keith Hoskins, Western District Manager with Gulf Power, was named Emerging Leader of the Year. Hoskins, a retired Navy Captain and former Blue Angels pilot, has immersed himself in our community in the brief time since retiring from the Navy and settling in Pensacola. Hoskins displays his passion for community and business development by his involvement with the Baptist Health Care Foundation, the Gulf Coast Kids House, National Aviation Museum, Greater Pensacola Chamber, First Tee Program, the West Florida Defense Alliance, First Place Partners, Take Stock in Children and the Florida Sports Hall of Fame.

Business Leader of the Year: David Peaden, Executive Director of Home Builders Association of West Florida, was named Business Leader of the Year. Over the past 21 years, David Peaden has led an organization that is responsible for bringing millions of dollars into our local economy. Peaden has also been a tireless advocate to reduce government red-tape and improve the local business climate. Peaden has also been involved with many of our area’s key non-profit organizations including: United Way, the Gulf Coast Kids House, Rebuild Northwest Florida, the University of West Florida Foundation, and the Council on Aging.

Professional Leader of the Year: Dr. Adam Anz, an Orthopedic Surgeon, specializing in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy at the Andrews Institute, was named Professional Leader of the Year. Dr. Anz’s most significant professional accomplishment to date is the opening of a facility at the Andrews Institute to study stem cell advancements for sports medicine and the start of his study in 2017 to study cartilage repair in the knee. Dr. Anz’s efforts continue to transform the industry of sports medicine and he demonstrates the utmost character, both to athletes, his patients, his co-workers, and our community.

Community Leader of the Year: Roy Kinsey, founder of Veterans Flight, was named Community Leader of the Year. Kinsey, a Pensacola attorney with 45 years of experience, flew the first Veterans Flight on Veterans Day in 2010 when he took World War II veteran Norman Cockman up in his vintage Stearman aircraft. Kinsey has continued to honor World War II veterans with flights at events ever since, sometimes flying more than thirty veterans during a weekend. World War II veterans as old as 101 years old have participated in Veterans Flights organized by our Community Leader of the Year. As a part of his efforts, Roy Kinsey raises funds from the community to put on the flights, and then organizes volunteers who take care of the veterans and planes during the weekend of the event.

Advocate Leader of the Year: Shawn Salamida, President of FamiliesFirst Network, was named Advocate Leader of the Year.

As President of FamiliesFirst, Salamida is responsible for the oversight of all facets of community-based care among four counties in northwest Florida. Our recipient has been serving and counseling the needs of others for nearly 3 decades and is motivated by all the people who work together to save and bring meaning to children’s lives. One of Salamida’s accomplishments is the creation of the ISAFE Project. The Increasing Safety and Family Engagement system promotes teamwork and critical thinking when child welfare workers make the life-changing decision to bring a child into foster care and increases the opportunities for families to safely maintain their children in their home.

Leader in Education: Elizabeth Eubanks, teacher and manager of Innisfree Hotels Hive projects, was named Leader in Education. The Innisfree Hotel Hive projects which include From the Ground Up Community Garden and Dixon School of the Arts and Sciences, allow Eubanks to expose science and nature to underprivileged students. The Garden holds regular school group visits and educational courses taught by local experts. For Dixon School of the Arts, as the Scientist in Residence, she hosts teacher workshops, organizes research projects at From the Ground Up, has created a Citizen Science project for children and mentors youth to partake in international science conferences. Eubanks has taken students from Dixon to San Diego, New Orleans and Washington, D.C. to present their research.

Spirit of Pensacola: Malcolm Ballinger, owner of Ballinger Publishing, was named as the recipient of the Spirit of Pensacola Award. A Pensacola resident since 2002, Ballinger has been in the publishing business for 38 years. His company publishes Pensacola Magazine, Northwest Florida’s Business Climate Magazine and Pensacola’s Downtown Crowd, Coming of Age, Gulf Breeze Magazine, Gosport, Faces of Life, The Healthy Alternative and many directories, newsletters and programs for local Chambers of Commerce, professional organizations and nonprofits. Ballinger has served some of our local non-profits including: the Escambia County Schools Foundation, the Gulf Coast Kids House, Pensacola Opera, Pensacola Ballet, and ARC Gateway.

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news of the weird AWESOME! Zen TV painter Bob Ross has been gone for 24 years, but his inspiration lives on—at least at Madison Middle School in Abilene, Texas, where on Feb. 7, students in Brady Sloane's art class donned curly brown wigs, blue shirts and paint palettes for a "Flash Bob Flash Mob." Sloane's pre-Advanced Placement students were stressed about grades and projects, and she "wanted to find a way to reward them," she told the Abilene Reporter News. The students used music stands as makeshift easels, where they painted "happy little trees" and projected an episode of "The Joy of Painting" as parents memorialized the special day with photos and videos.

HANGRY Asalene Branch, 29, was only defending her spot in a McDonald's drive-thru lane on Feb. 18 when she stabbed another woman in the head. Fox News reported that Branch and the other woman were waiting at a Memphis restaurant when a physical fight broke out over their places in the line; Branch took out a knife and assaulted the alleged victim, resulting in injuries that were not life-threatening. Branch was tracked down by police and charged with aggravated assault.

THE FOREIGN PRESS Valentine's Day is complicated in Japan. On Feb. 14, women traditionally give men chocolates: "giri choco," or "obligation chocolates," to their male colleagues, and "honmei choco," or "true feelings chocolate," to their boyfriends or husbands. (Men return the favor on White Day, March 14.) But according to Japan Today, Japanese women are rebelling against giri choco; 40 percent of workers see the custom "as a form of power harassment," and some companies have banned the practice. Women find giving chocolates to associates stressful: "Before the office ban, we had to worry about things like how much is appropriate to spend on each chocolate and where we draw the line in who we give the chocolates to," said one worker.

PEOPLE DIFFERENT FROM US Looking for a new home? A newly listed suburban Philadelphia home offers something a little sideways from your typical basement rumpus room. The five-bedroom, 2 1/2-bath brick colonial in Maple Glen has three fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen—and a sex basement. The finished lower level includes a bed-in-a-cage, complete with straps, whips and other accouterment for any buyer's "50 Shades of Grey" fantasies. Realtor Melissa Leonard stresses, however, that the basement "can be converted back to a typical suburban basement." Neighbors are shocked to find out what's been going on in their 'hood, but "I know it's a way of life for people," Leonard told Slate magazine.

GOVERNMENT IN ACTION You think things are wild in the U.S. Congress? In Al-

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

bania, Edi Paloka, an opposition lawmaker, was asked to leave the parliament hall on Feb. 14 and suspended for 10 days after throwing ink at Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama. It all started when Rama scolded a fellow lawmaker for making accusations of corruption against the leftist government, according to Xinhua. A statement from the center-right Democratic party explained, "The action of ink-throwing is a rejection of the bullying exerted by the PM, which is witnessed by the public opinion." Apparently, Rama had repeatedly mocked Paloka during previous sessions of parliament.

THE WEIRDO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY A dispute over a box of Cheez-Its provoked a DeKalb County, Georgia, man to do the unthinkable on Feb. 12. As Jeremy Lamar Wyatt, 32, his brother and 61-year-old mother argued over the salty snacks, Wyatt went outside, locked his family inside the home, poured gasoline on the front steps and started a fire, according to WGCL-TV. Wyatt's brother was able to lower the mother down from a secondstory window, and both escaped without injury. Wyatt, who had reportedly been enjoying some adult beverages with his Cheez-Its, was taken into custody at the scene and charged with arson and criminal damage to property.

NEWS THAT SOUNDS LIKE A JOKE At Towson University in Maryland, an unidentified woman was reported wandering around campus just before Valentine's Day, showing coeds a photo of her son and asking if they'd like to go on a date with him. Awkward! The woman, thought to be in her 50s, staked out the Cook Library and the Center for the Arts in hopes of securing a love connection for her son, reported the Baltimore Sun. Towson police are hoping to identify her, not so they can arrest her, but to ask her to stop.

THE METH MADE ME DO IT In Seattle, Douglas Braden Smyser, 21, boarded a plane on Feb. 13 on his way to Los Angeles and a drug rehab center in Malibu, but his behavior during the flight finally caused the pilot to land in Portland and have him removed from the plane. Smyser, from Bonney Lake, Washington, would not stay in his seat, tried to sit in first class and threw his backpack in the aisle.

Passengers helped contain him until the plane could land safely. Smyser admitted later that he had eaten meth before boarding, which made him "suspicious and paranoid," reported KIRO TV. He also claimed to have a gun. He was charged with second-degree disorderly conduct and menacing, along with a federal charge of interference with a flight crew. {in}

From Andrews McMeel Syndication News Of The Weird © 2019 Andrews McMeel

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com February 28, 2019

23

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