Inweekly Nov. 27 2020 Issue

PANHANDLE SLIM PAINTS POP, POLITICS AND PAIN

Independent News | November 27, 2020 | Volume 21 | Number 48 | Photos Courtesy of Panhandle Slim

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winners & losers

outtakes

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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

Courtesy of Pensacola State College

winners MOLLY MCGUIRE On Thursday, Nov. 19,

friends and family of Molly McGuire, McGuire's Irish Pub's and her family's matriarch, presented Pensacola State College with a check for $50,350 to the Molly McGuire Culinary Arts Endowed Scholarship. Molly McGuire Martin passed away in 2014. Her husband, McGuire Martin, along with family members and friends in the Irish Politicians Club, established the scholarship in 2015 in her honor. With the latest donation, the endowment principal is now $350,350, making it the college's sixth-largest endowed scholarship.

COX Recently, Cox presented Community Action Program (CAP) in Pensacola with a $7,500 grant to focus on quality education and poverty reduction programs. The cash donation will allow CAP to serve their clients as well as purchase computers for children who need them for school and staff who support online Head Start and VPK teacher training. The agency serves approximately 8,000 clients in the Pensacola area. The resources will support its on-going virtual and in-classroom Head Start efforts to ensure that every child in its care is ready for kindergarten.

CAITLIN CERAME The Emerald Coast

Regional Council staff member was recently voted onto the Florida Bicycle Association (FBA) Board of Directors. The FBA is a statewide not-for-profit organization, whose mission is to encourage more people to bicycle through education and advocacy.

Cerame has been with the Emerald Coast Regional Council for five years, working in both land use and transportation planning.

She currently manages the bicycle and pedestrian programs for three transportation planning organizations in Northwest Florida.

TATE HIGH SCHOOL The Humanists of

West Florida will honor Tate High School students and staff for their contributions to the Third Annual Shoe Drive benefitting clients of Alfred-Washburn Homeless Day Care Center. Due to pandemic precautions, the school has enacted a no visitor policy.

A ceremony will be held after the new year, when it is deemed safe. The shoe drive was a huge success primarily due to the efforts of these students. Tate students and staff gathered more shoes and winter apparel than was collected during last year's entire campaign.

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Rudy Giuliani / vasilis asvestas / Shutterstock.com

losers RUDY GIULIANI President Donald Trump

suffered an embarrassing defeat in Pennsylvania when Federal Judge Matthew W. Brann dismissed a lawsuit by the Trump campaign that had claimed widespread improprieties existed with mail-in ballots in the state.

Giuliani, who had not represented a client in a courtroom for decades, had appeared in court accusing the Democratic Party of committing "nationwide fraud." However, when pressed

by Judge Brann, the attorney backtracked and stated the case wasn't a fraud case. Two days later, Giuliani held a press conference where he promised more suits attacking the integrity of the elections and proving "massive fraud."

Judge Brann dismissed the Pennsylvania case because the Trump campaign had only presented "strained legal arguments without merit and speculative accusations" that were "unsupported by evidence."

DELAWARE RESOURCE GROUP An

instructor from the aerospace defense contracting company has been cited for unprofessional behavior and harassment of Saudi aviation students in an investigative report of the Dec. 6, 2019, attack that killed three sailors and injured eight others. A U.S. Navy investigation determined 2nd Lt. Mohammed Alshamrani, a 21-year-old Royal Saudi Air Force member, had been "self-radicalized" but also found Navy leaders could have picked up on a pattern of negative behaviors exacerbated by the "toxic" command climate at the base. Three students reported that "[the instructor] made homophobic comments regarding their hairstyles and personal grooming," according to the report. Multiple complaints were filed against the contractor.

Alshamrani was among them. Upon release of the report, the Navy Office of Information said that the contributing factors "will be addressed by a special working group, organized by the Navy's Security Coordination Board."

TYSON FOODS The company that produces a fifth of our nation's beef, pork and chicken has suspended managers at an Iowa plant accused of participating in a betting pool on how many employees would become ill with COVID-19. The suspensions came one day after the family of a deceased employee filed a lawsuit claiming, "fraudulent misrepresentations, gross negligence and incorrigible, willful and wanton disregard for worker safety at its pork processing facility in Waterloo, Iowa." inweekly.net

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THANKSGIVING LIST With a pandemic and several hurricanes thrown at us in 2020, some may find it challenging to create a list of things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. However, we've seen movement on several issues that should make our community's future brighter.

Race has been a difficult topic for generations in Pensacola, but we see progress.

In the wake of the police shooting of Tymar Crawford, Mayor Grover Robinson created a Citizen Police Advisory Committee to explore police procedures, policies and complaints. The mayor and Pensacola City Council removed the Confederate statue and renamed Lee Square at the top of Palafox Street. The Ku Klux Klan history of historian and "Exalted Cyclops" T.T. Wentworth was uncovered, and the UWF Historic Trust has taken steps to rename the museum bearing his name.

The Escambia County School District has its first appointed superintendent, Dr. Tim Smith, who has 31 years of experience in the Orange County School District as a teacher, dean, assistant principal, principal and executive area director.

Many—this newspaper included—worried the school board wouldn't hire someone outside Escambia County, but School Board Member Bill Slayton surprised us by voting for Smith. The district sorely needs fresh ideas and innovative approaches to help its failing schools, particularly at the middle school level. We are excited to see the changes Smith will make.

Five years ago, Quint Studer and the University of West Florida tried to build a Center for Entrepreneurship at the Maritime Park in hopes of making the city a major hub for entrepreneurs. Then-Mayor Ashton Hayward blocked the lease agreement from reaching the city council for a vote, and the building project died. However, the development of entrepreneurs hasn't.

The Studer Community Institute launched the Spring to connect promising entrepreneurs with agencies and institutions to help them. In turn, the Spring has launched its venture mentoring service and gBeta to help locals create their business plans and solicit venture capital. Several of their mentees also

have been clients of FloridaWest's CO:LAB, which provides office space and guidance for aspiring business owners.

FloridaWest recently unveiled a new website, cybercoastflorida.com. The site will serve as the centerpiece of an ongoing "Remote from Here" campaign kicking off in January to encourage qualified cybersecurity workers to work remotely and ultimately move to the Pensacola area. These new arrivals could be our next wave of entrepreneurs.

We should also be thankful for Escambia County Supervisor of Elections David Stafford, his staff and poll workers. Understanding safety concerns over the pandemic, Stafford encouraged mail-in ballots by providing return postage. He met with our reporters and answered all our questions.

He assured us that if there's a problem with a ballot—like the signatures didn't match or it wasn't signed at all—his office would contact the voter and try to resolve the issue so the ballot could be counted. We had no problems with our elections or voter registration this year.

On a personal note, I am thankful for the Inweekly team. Editor and Creative Director Joani Delezen led our team of writers through difficult times and produced cover stories that are among the best of our 20-year history. We tackled COVID from several angles, ranging from its impact on nursing homes to how restaurant and bar workers coped during the pandemic to how the county fumbled providing assistance grants for families and businesses. We covered the Black Lives Matter movement and protests. Realizing we had several new voters this year, we also created a weekly series answering questions about the process and the elected offices.

Writers Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Jeremy Morrison, Sydney Robinson, Stephanie Sharp and Scott Satterwhite put in the long hours, pursued the interviews and attended the meetings. Graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk laid out the pages.

Though we may be small in number, few can match our passion for this community. {in} rick@inweekly.net

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LEADING INTO THE 'NEW NORMAL'

Robert Bender / myescambia.com

By Jeremy Morrison Robert Bender's first year serving on the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners was a doozy. But it was just a warm-up for 2020, during which the commissioners navigated a landscape plagued

by COVID and wracked by Hurricane Sally.

Bender said the trial-by-fires have well prepared him to take the reins of the county commission as a pandemic-spinning world enters into a "new normal."

"I'm told they've never seen a commissioner come in quite like I have," Bender said, "with as much stuff to deal with, in terms of a new administrator and so many upper-level staff that needed to be hired, the terrorist shooting and everything else we've gone through."

He continued, "But I say I don't know any different. It's what I've been dealing with every day, and it's just on to the next day and dealing with it the best you can."

This month, Bender assumed the chairmanship position of the county commission during a ceremony at Blue Wahoos Stadium. Commissioners rotate this leadership position annually, and this is Bender's first time serving as chairman.

At the ceremony, the incoming chairman nodded to his predecessor—Commissioner Steven Barry—as Bender prepared for the coming year.

"With everything that we've gone through, I think he did a great job," Bender 66

said, "so I appreciate the opportunity for sitting next to him while he did. Hopefully, I can take what I learned and apply it to next year."

Acknowledging that Escambia County, like the rest of the world, is operating in unique territory regarding the coronavirus and efforts to curb its impact, Chairman Bender said he hopes to see a strive for some sense of "normalcy" in the year ahead, allowing the county to focus on the day-to-day mundane, such as redistricting or hashing out a new contract with the Escambia County Sheriff's Office.

detour to get to South Santa Rosa County and Pensacola Beach because of damage to the Pensacola Bay Bridge.

Bender said, "That's a reminder of the impact of the bridge being out is having on us."

Technically, Escambia County isn't an official player when it comes to the offline bridge. The commissioner explained, "It's an FDOT-owned project. We're more of a third party in this case."

However, Bender counts the bridge's closure among the most significant blips on Escambia County's radar. He said that local officials are working with the Florida Department of Transportation to ensure the repair process, expected to stretch into the spring, is "as bearable as possible and as efficient as possible."

Local officials were pushing FDOT to launch a ferry service for people needing to cross the bay between Pensacola, Gulf Breeze and Pensacola Beach, but those dreams of a ferry, at least of a free service, have been snuffed.

"It would have been highly utilized, but ultimately, it came down to funding and FDOT, " said the chairman. "Some of the grants that they were after, maybe there wasn't as much money as they had initially thought once everything played out."

Beyond the possibility of grants, Bender said that officials had also pushed for the ferry to be footed by Skanska, since it was the company's barges that knocked out the bridge.

"That's something we talked to FDOT about, but again, that's their contractor, and that would be something for FDOT," he said.

"I think they are getting charged a penalty for the bridge not being open each day [that] you would think could have been used."

The next step, the chairman said, will be to consult with the Gulf Islands National Seashore and see if the ferries used to transport people to Fort Pickens and the beach might be repurposed for a while. The service would cost something, but it would present an option to the driving detour.

"A known 30 minutes is a lot better than an unknown hour and a half," Bender said.

"I'm looking forward to having a good year, recovering from all the things that have been thrown our way and making Escambia FACING A PANDEMIC County better." Robert Bender Without a unified federal strategy, "I'm looking forward to having a good year, recovering from all the things that have been thrown our way and making Escambia County better," he said.

After assuming the chairmanship, Bender sat down with Inweekly to discuss his expectations for the coming year.

THE BRIDGE IS OUT BLUES

On a recent drive along Scenic Highway, Bender noticed a glowing red centipede snaking across Escambia Bay—the congested traffic having to take an hour

state and local governments have created a patchwork of safety measures—ranging from lockdowns to masks to nothing at all—to curb the spread of COVID-19.

"Anytime I'm out, I'm wearing a mask," Chairman Bender said.

That may be because a lot of Bender's district falls within the city of Pensacola, which has instituted a mask mandate.

Escambia County has declared a state of emergency, but a majority of commissioners—despite pleas from Mayor Grover Robinson for consistency across

the region—have shown no appetite for a mask mandate. Bender points out that the county does encourage masking but said a county mandate was unlikely.

"We need to look at the numbers and see, but we also need to learn how to live with it moving forward. How do we have larger gatherings? How do we go back to events? " Bender "We need to look at the numbers and see, but we also need to learn how to live with it moving forward," Bender said, pointing toward the city's current discussions about the upcoming Mardi Gras season and how best to accommodate such events. "How do we have larger gatherings?

How do we go back to events? Those will be discussions with our partners."

GILLEY'S REPORT CARD

Two years ago, amid internal upheaval, Escambia County got a new administrator in Janice Gilley. Chairman Bender said he thinks the new administrator has brought an element of "stability" to the county.

"Personally, I think she's done a good job," he said. "I think she took it for the right reasons. She wasn't looking for a job; it was something that she wanted to do to give back to her community and felt she could be impactful."

In particular, the chairman appreciates the way Gilley has filled out the county's administrative bench.

"I think the quality and caliber of people that she's hired are excellent," he said. "I really just don't think we saw this level applying for these positions before, or they would and they wouldn't get it, for one reason or another."

Bender added, "Now that she has her staff under her, it's going to allow her to focus on the even bigger picture."

THE GANG'S ALL HERE

On the day Bender took hold of the chairman's gavel, three other commissioners, all incumbents, were also sworn in for another term. He said there's a certain level of comfort in this familiarity.

"We all know each other now," Bender said. "We all have our qualities; we all have our things that we bring to the board."

Discussions will likely be as spirited as always, but such consistency, the chairman said, should allow for the group's momentum to continue without any drag.

"We can just keep going," Bender said.

"You know, all of our policies and projects that we've been working on are still those same priorities." {in} inweekly.net

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CPAC: SEARCHING FOR 'SEA LEGS'

By Jeremy Morrison Members of the Pensacola Citizen Police Advisory Committee are entertaining an identity crisis. Who are they?

What are the possibilities and limitations of this endeavor?

"This is something new for our city, and we're trying to get our 'sea legs,' as we would say in the Navy," said CPAC Chairman Rev. Joseph Marshall.

Marshall hears a lot of questions from constituents about the role of CPAC. Many are under the impression that the municipal body exercises oversight over the Pensacola Police Department.

"What can we do?" Marshall relayed his typical response during CPAC's Nov. 17 meeting. "To be honest with you, there is nothing that we can do."

Like similar panels assembled in communities across the country, Pensacola's CPAC was born out of tragedy. Mayor Grover Robinson formed the advisory following the July 2019 shooting of Tymar Crawford by a former Pensacola Police Department detective to foster a dialogue between the police and the community it serves.

With a few months of meetings in the books, members found themselves pondering the committee's effectiveness, wondering if perhaps they could be doing more. Chairman Marshall suggested they 88

look at what counterparts around the country were doing.

"Though this is new for us, it's not new across the country," Marshall said, detailing data that indicated that committees that served in an oversight role, rather than merely advisory, appeared to be more beneficial to communities.

The chairman asked members if the local committee was aiming to "debunk the data" and maintain a purely advisory role or if it should request some oversight authority, which would allow for an investigatory function.

"Do we attempt to push forward to something else that is more proven, based on the data, that actually works?" Marshall posed.

NO MORE MEAT ON THE BONE

For an oversight role, this push for the authority to subpoena officers and investigate specific instances of potential oversteps or infractions is not new. Following Crawford's death, the Pensacola Dream Defenders were the chief advocate for the formation of CPAC. The group strongly lobbied for a body with more power than what Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson assembled this past summer.

CPAC member Hale Morrissette of Dream Defenders told the committee that she doubted this discussion would go anywhere productive.

"The original intention of this committee was to be an oversight, and we were

told that we could legally not be an oversight committee in the state of Florida," Morrissette said. "Until the people get on the ground and get that to legislation, that's not something that's going to happen. Because that was a fight, tooth-and-nail fight."

Cedric Alexander, a retired law enforcement officer hired by the city to work with both CPAC and the PPD, told committee members that he understood the frustration with the inherent limits of an advisory role.

"I appreciate y'all's energy around this and thoughtfulness," Alexander said. He suggested they request that Mayor Robinson clarify the committee's mission and also consider if that scope is sufficient or perhaps CPAC might "need more meat on this bone."

"Is what he's asking for a reality, or do you need more or less?" he said. "What exactly are we doing? Are we advising? Are we oversighting?"

Robinson wasn't in attendance, but City Neighborhoods Administrator Lawrence Powell attempted to clarify the committee's mission as outlined by the mayor.

"I think it's clear his intent is for it to be advisory. Does that mean it cannot change? I'm not saying that," Powell said.

"I think your struggle is not so much what you've been charged with, but as you move down this road, you realize that there are some issues that might require something other than advisory. And I get that. And the mayor, he may be watching; he gets it also."

"I think it's clear his intent is for it to be advisory. Does that mean it cannot change? I'm not saying that." Lawrence Powell The mayor may get it. But CPAC's powers aren't going to change.

"It's kind of one of those cases where it's kind of beyond us," Mayor Robinson said a few days after the CPAC meeting, citing limitations imposed by state law on the scope of such a committee. "I'd like to see CPAC stay focused on what they can do, which is write a report."

Robinson stressed that City Attorney Susan Woolf had clearly explained the scope and boundaries of the advisory board during one of the group's initial meetings and that CPAC members interested in expanding such a committee's authority would need to approach the issue with state legislators.

"If they have ideas on something else and want to change them at the state level, I encourage them to go to the state," he said.

That said, he'd rather see CPAC work within the framework intended. He suggested they focus on making recommenda-

tions to the city, pointing specifically to a recommendation from the committee this month for the PPD to partner with the East Pensacola Student Athlete Program, Inc., which runs the Pensacola Rattlers football and cheerleading program.

This partnership would entail law enforcement officers volunteering with the sports organization to improve relations within the Black community and, according to the mayor, "provide a more positive experience" with police officers.

"This is sort of right down the alley of something we want to do," he said of the partnership. The mayor also stressed that the committee should be approaching its work with a timeline in mind. Because some of the group's recommendations will imply budgetary considerations, members will need to produce something by March or April.

"Once you hit May, the budget's already baked," Robinson said.

CHAIRMAN STEPS DOWN

As the meeting neared its end, Chairman Marshall informed committee members that they would need to continue the journey without his leadership, as he would be stepping down from his position.

"I'm going to have to step down as chair," he said. "Not only am I going to have to step down as chair, but as a committee member."

Marshall explained that there were three reasons for his departure. First, the election had changed the make-up of the Pensacola City Council, specifically District 5 has a new council member. Marshall was appointed to CPAC by Councilman John Jerralds, who was himself appointed to the city council following the death of District 5 Councilman Gerald Wingate. Marshall said the departure would allow incoming Councilwoman Teniadé Broughton to select her appointment to the committee.

"I'm very excited for her," Marshall said of Broughton. "She's a wonderful young lady, very fiery."

But Marshall said his decision to step down was also influenced by his "ministerial obligations," as well as "unforeseen health issues that have reoccurred." At the behest of committee members, the chairman agreed to continue to serve on CPAC for one more meeting to provide Broughton ample time to select a new appointee.

Mayor Robinson said later that he understood why Marshall was stepping down, mentioning the health considerations, but also said that it was never intended that the CPAC membership would be tied to changes in council membership. In addition to Broughton, the council has two other new members.

Neither of CPAC members appointed by the previous representatives of those respective districts have indicated they intend to step down from the committee. {in} inweekly.net

Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things around us.

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"From our standpoint, no one's ever explained it," said the mayor. "We've been submitting eligible expenses, and we got to do what the county says. Part of this is the state didn't make it real clear, but it would've been easier if we had a more willing partner to work with us— one we can learn to work and collaborate with."

As a county commissioner, Robinson worked with five different county administrators over 12 years.

How does Gilley compare to her predecessors?

The mayor said, "All I'm going to say is, I've been there before, and I'm not there now, so I don't know what it's like there, but it does seem challenging that we cannot seem to get consistency."

CHARACTER OVER COMFORT Quint Studer

Tada Images / Shutterstock.com

CARES CHAOS Last week, Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson went before the Board of County Commissioners and asked for $4.915 million of the county's Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds. The board only approved $2.2 million.

Robinson has become increasingly frustrated with the county's fickleness and the lack of clear direction from County Administrator Janice Gilley on the CARES Act. "Every time we go to the county, the rules change," the mayor said days after the dust had settled from the meeting. He joked that he almost needs a Ouija board to figure out what the county wants any given day.

Kidding aside, he has been disappointed with how little coordination has come out of the administrator's office. Robinson said, "We all should have been looking at the same ideas, comparing what each is doing and figuring out how to make this work.

That's the smart way to handle it."

Collaboration and coordination didn't happen. The city initially tried to get the county to allocate CARES dollars for the municipality based on its Local Option Sales Tax percentage. The city then would 010 1

have budgeted the funds as it saw best for its CARES needs.

"Well, that wasn't what they wanted to do," Robinson told Inweekly. "They wanted us to have to come through them, so we went back, and then we came up with ideas."

He continued, "We should have been able to share those good ideas and figure out what we could do together, but it hasn't been that way. I mean, it's been a kind of you do your thing and then come back to us and let us know. We may approve it. We may not."

Adding to the frustration was Gilley's instruction for the city to submit its CARES requests to FEMA before coming to the county for funds, even though all the expenditures were CARES Act eligible, according to the mayor.

"I asked at a League of Cities meeting if anyone else was having to do this," said Robinson. "Not a single person said that they had to submit to FEMA. Instead, people came up to me after the meeting and said that wasn't a CARES Act requirement."

He didn't know where Gilley came up with that requirement that City Finance Director Amy Lovoy and her staff spent hours trying to meet.

opened the 2020 EntreCon with a talk on the importance of consistent situational character.

"When you hit a crossroads, what do you do? Do you choose character over comfort?" Studer asked the 500plus registered participants.

He talked about the city of Pensacola's debate to remove the Confederate Monument for Lee Square. Three years ago, when Southern cities were removing Confederate statues and monuments in the wake of the violence in Charlottesville, Va., then-Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward said he wanted the city's "Our Confederate Dead" removed from city property.

However, he never presented the proposal to the city council.

This summer, Pensacola City Councilwoman Sherri Myers started the clock on the monument's removal. All but one council member voted in favor of her recommendation to take it down. The city had to battle a lawsuit and prevailed in court, and the statue has been removed.

Inweekly supported the removal in 2017 and voiced disappointment that city officials didn't follow through on Hayward's initial statement. We repeated our stance after Mayor Robinson's election in 2019 and joined the local Dream Defenders in calling for its removal.

In June 2020, Studer came out in support of removing the statue. At EntreCon, he talked about trying to get other community leaders to join him.

"People even have told me that they wanted it down, and I asked them to come out," he said. "Some of them didn't come out—and that's their complete individual choice, but I wonder why not?"

He suggested leaders were reluctant because "sometimes it's going to create discomfort, and sometimes it's going to create unpopularity, and sometimes it's even going to hurt our business."

The Confederate monument debate put leaders in a situation of whether to choose character or comfort.

He offered several examples of situations in business when that decision is being made on a daily basis.

Studer advised the audience to "anchor" their values, standards, integrity and character, and "anchor them deep." He said, "Then all of a sudden, there's really no situation that we have to deal with that we don't have a clear answer."

He added that inaction can still be an action because it may send a message that behavior not consistent with one's values or an organization's culture is permissible.

"When it came to the 1890-something statue in Pensacola, my issue is if I didn't come out and say something, I don't think I could ever drive downtown without feeling like I should have done something," said Studer. "Wrong or right, I felt I did something that I believed in."

"Great companies and communities are made of character builders, not comfort seekers." Quint Studer He added, "Great companies and communities are made of character builders, not comfort seekers. So my message is, let's continue to choose character, let's make a difference in the world, and you won't regret it."

SATISFACTION GAP The UWF Haas

Center conducted its annual survey of Pensacola residents. The survey assessed resident satisfaction with a variety of city services and determined residents' top priorities for the City of Pensacola. Data will be used by the city to identify budget priorities and areas for improvement to provide high-quality services to residents.

"We are fortunate to have such engaged citizens who are willing to provide their feedback to the City of Pensacola to help us improve and succeed," Mayor Grover Robinson said. "We always strive for the highest quality of life for our residents, and these survey responses will help us continue to enhance city services and build an even better community together."

Unfortunately, the survey was once inweekly.net

again skewed towards the city districts on the east side of Pensacola. The eastern districts of 1, 2, 3 and 4 represent 45% of the city's population and accounted for 72.1% of the results. The western districts of 5, 6 and 7 represent 55% of the city but only accounted for 27.9% of the results.

District 3 had the most respondents, 242, with a median household income of $90,171. District 7 had the least respondents, 75, with a median household income of $41,587. Both districts have similar percentages of the city's populations—District 3-18.4% and District 7-20.0%.

However, the two districts have different views about city services. District 7 is considerably less satisfied with Street Lighting than District 3—D7-12% to D336%, a gap of 24 points. The gap concerning Stormwater Infrastructure is about half of that spread—D7-26% to D3-40%.

Under Neighborhoods, District 7 had greater satisfaction with City Parks and Community Centers—D7-66% to D362%—but was less satisfied with Coordination of Needs of Neighborhoods (D7-13% to D3-29%), Quality of Fire Services (D7-59% to D3-78%) and Preservation of Historical Culture (D7-29% to D3-43%).

Under Public Safety Improvements, District 7 and District 3 were nearly in agreement on Crime Reduction (D7-21% to D3-25%) and Code Enforcement (D7-27% to D332%). However, there were double-digit gaps for Traffic Safety (D7-27% to D3-43%) and Neighborhood Safety (D7-23% to D3-35%).

District 7 had greater satisfaction for all the Economic Development areas, particularly Neighborhood Revitalization (D7-47% to D-35%). The two districts weren't very far apart when asked about the city's efforts regarding growth, waterfront access, environment and safe community.

SHORTING FAMILIES On Thursday,

Nov. 19, the Escambia County administration sent out its update on the status of

its $57.2 million share of the CARES Act. According to the figures provided, families and businesses impacted by the pandemic will receive less than a third of the funds—$18.7 million, or 32.7%.

"We are fortunate to have such engaged citizens who are willing to provide their feedback to the City of Pensacola to help us improve and succeed." Grover Robinson This is a far cry from the initial commitment the administration and the county commission made to get the majority of the funds into the hands of households and small businesses. In August, the board approved an allocation that set aside $3.58 million each for families and business grant programs—about half for the first 25% allotment of CARES Act funds sent to the county. The board reaffirmed the allocations on Sept. 3.

When Inweekly did its research for its COVID-19 Ballsy Plan, we found several counties were allocating 60% of their funds for families and businesses. Many began accepting applications in June and July. Escambia County didn't start until late September.

While it's clear that families and businesses are getting considerably less than promised, the county communications department tried to spend a different narrative in the release— "The grant programs are a good portion of the CARES Act funding that the county has at its disposal to assist with additional expenses or hardships related to COVID-19."

The largest portion of the $57.2 million has been allocated to Public Health and Safety—$30.3 million, or 53%.

The budget given in the press release is $30.3 million for Public Health and Safety, $19.6 million for resident and business grant

programs, $3.4 million for Government Response and Compliance, $2.3 million for Escambia Serves programs, $1.25 million for Rapid Testing and $400,000 for COVID-19 Operations and Oversight. Some of the budget numbers are different from the accompanying narrative provided in the press release.

More than 4,900 grant applications for family assistance are in the final approval stages before funding. An additional 600 will be approved, and the county expects to complete the approval process by the first week of December.

No figure was given for the Escambia CARES Business Assistance Grant program— other than it's continuing with more than 80 applicants still needing review. The business grants are expected to total $2.2 million.

a foundation or business, whose grant programs, donations and charitable activities significantly enrich the community.

Coastal Moving and Storage was named the 2020 Philanthropic Business of the Year.

This award honors a corporation or business in Northwest Florida that demonstrates outstanding commitment through financial support, encouragement and motivation of others to take leadership roles toward philanthropy and community involvement.

Ora Wills was named the 2020 Philanthropist of the Year. This award recognizes exceptional generosity and civic responsibility demonstrated by significant financial contributions to charitable organizations in the community.

NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY

Season Ticket Memberships for the 2021 Blue Wahoos season are available now at bluewahoos.com, and fans may pick out and reserve their seats easily by making a $100 deposit.

"We want to make it as easy as possible for fans to become Blue Wahoos Season Ticket Members," box office Manager Kyle Williamson said. "We understand that many fans who are excited about baseball returning to Blue Wahoos Stadium in 2021 may not have the financial flexibility due to the pandemic to purchase season tickets right now.

So we've established a deposit program, allowing fans to make a $100 deposit, pick their seats today and begin a flexible and affordable six-month payment plan."

A map of available seats can be viewed at milb.com/pensacola.

"For the first time in years, we have a few pairs of seats available in section 100 directly behind home plate," Williamson said. "We also have two sets of seats in the first row on top of the Blue Wahoos dugout.

We currently have seats available in every section of the Blue Wahoos Stadium seating bowl, so there's a seat for everyone, no matter how you like to enjoy the game." {in}

The Association of Fundraising Professionals, West Florida Chapter recently announced recipients of the 2020 National Philanthropy Day awards during its virtual celebration. National Philanthropy Day is an annual event designed to celebrate and highlight the accomplishments of giving, volunteering and charitable engagement within our community.

Melissa Stephany Johnson was named the 2020 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year. This award is for individuals with a proven track record of ongoing, significant time and commitment for one or more organizations.

The Faith Health Network of Baptist Health Care was named the 2020 Outstanding Faith-Based Organization of the Year. This award is for an organization that gives of itself to motivate and support its members' service-related efforts and exhibits above-and-beyond qualities of service and giving.

The Birthday Party was named the 2020 Philanthropic Service Organization of the Year. This award recognizes a communitybased organization that is not connected to

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November 27, 2020

13

PANHANDLE SLIM PAINTS POP, POLITICS AND PAIN

BY JEREMY MORRISON

Photo courtesy of the Teniadé Broughton campaign

Panhandle Slim paintings hang around Pensacola like familiar faces—each offering words to ponder.

"I can't tell you how many times I've walked into a room—an office, a living room, a place of business—and been greeted by one of Panhandle Slim's painting hanging on the wall," said Lauren Anzaldo, whose family recently donated three of the artist's paintings to the University of West Florida's Pensacola Museum of Art. "His work and creativity speaks to people through the words and images of the subjects of his paintings."

The art is distinct and immediately recognizable, typically featuring a portrait—ranging from Maya Angelou to Johnny Cash to Jesus—and an accompany414 1

ing quote. The artist, also known as Scott Stanton, grew up and lived in Pensacola before leaving for Savannah, Ga., and left an indelible stamp on his hometown.

"You can see a Panhandle Slim and tell it's his," said Teniadé Broughton, a local historian and incoming member of the Pensacola City Council. "I love how he uses quotes, the simple illustration, the color."

ART THE VOTE

Broughton considers herself a "big fan" of Panhandle Slim's work. And, now, she's also one of the artist's subjects, after contacting Stanton about producing art for use on her city council campaign signs.

"It was really just a shot in the dark.

I didn't know if he was going to say yes,"

Broughton recalled, adding that the artist seemed to do his research before committing to working with the candidate. "He said he checked me out first."

Since producing art for the city council candidate's campaign, Broughton and Stanton have developed a relationship.

This is not entirely unusual for the artist, as his subjects sometimes become characters in his own life.

"Of course, Teniadé and I have become friends since," Panhandle Slim said in a rare interview email exchange with Inweekly.

"Teniadé's vision for Pensacola goes in line with my vision for Pensacola."

Broughton joins fairly prominent company, as Panhandle Slim has also been painting for a few other political candi-

dates, including former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, as well as that state's upcoming high-stakes senatorial runoff elections featuring Rev. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff.

"What made things more amazing is when he did the sign for Biden and Harris," Broughton noted.

Stanton also painted for Savannah's Mayor Van Johnson, who Broughton met recently when he visited Pensacola to discuss an expansion of early childhood education effort Parent University to the area.

"The mayor of Savannah was like, 'Hey, that's the guy that did my yard sign,'" she said. "He pulls me over to the side and he was like, 'You have a Panhandle Slim; you better win.'" inweekly.net

The incoming councilwoman no doubt won over plenty of voters with her positions on issues facing Pensacola, but she also believes her Panhandle Slim signs—featuring a portrait of the candidate and her slogan 'Lift Every Voice'—played a part in her victory.

"Honestly, I think it helped me win," she reflected. "I had people tell me, 'I don't know who you are, but I know Panhandle Slim.'"

This election season, Stanton saw demand for his work among candidates increase. He takes this as a sign that his art is hitting a sweet spot among the electorate, signifying a candidate's general alignment via aesthetics.

"My art must contribute to the political dialogue," he said, "because more and more politicians are coming to me versus me coming to them."

Stanton said he decided to venture onto political terrain with his art because of the overriding impact that election results—from local council seats to the presidential race—have on every facet of life in this country.

"I believe everything is political because politics decides the outcome of almost everything on a local, state and national level," the artist explained.

"One difference I see in local versus national politics is that local to state politics is personal and national politics is a philosophy."

Broughton provided her Panhandle Slim signage to donors of her campaign. When she went around town collecting her various signage, she found people wanted to hold on to the signs featuring the artist's work.

"People want to keep their Panhandle Slim," she laughed. "When I come to pick them up, people are like, 'Nah, I'm gonna keep mine.'"

More recently, Panhandle Slim has painted works featuring the three men killed in the Dec. 2019 terrorist attack on Naval Air Station Pensacola.

"Watching what happened back home in Pensacola was personal, and it's the least I could do to honor these young men and their families," Stanton explained of his decision to paint the three servicemen.

At the time of the shootings, which killed Airman Mohammed Haitham, Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson and Airman Apprentice Cameron Walters, in addition to injuring eight others, Anzaldo was working on the base as a clinical social worker.

"The shooting slammed the NAS Pensacola community," said Anzaldo, who helped address mental health and resiliency issues for service members following the attack.

Anzaldo is married to Scott Satterwhite—a University of West Florida professor, Inweekly writer and Pensacola's de facto punk laureate—who is a longtime friend of Panhandle Slim's. Shortly after the NAS shootings, the artist delivered his three paintings honoring the victims to the couple's home while he was in town for the holidays.

"He entrusted us to ensure that the portraits were displayed to commemorate the three men who were lost in the shooting," Anzaldo explained.

Attempts to give the paintings to the Naval Aviation Museum on NAS were not productive— "Navy leadership made a decision that only official portraits of the slain sailors would be used"—and the couple, along with Stanton, ultimately decided to donate the works to Pensacola Museum of Art (PMA).

"Public viewing and recognition is part of the community's mourning and recovery process," said Anzaldo.

These paintings by Panhandle Slim are currently on display at the downtown museum, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the NAS shootings.

"The paintings commemorate a tragic event in our city's history, while celebrating the bravery of these young men," said PMA Chief Curator Anna Wall. "They show how art can be used to process trauma and memorialize history. By preserving these works at the museum, we hope the paintings will be part of our city's ongoing process of remembrance, dialogue and healing."

With these paintings now part of the museum's permanent collection, they take their place in town alongside the artist's many other works featured on local walls. Panhandle Slim may live in Savannah, but his spirit still permeates his hometown of Pensacola.

"Pensacola is his hometown, and his work is known and respected here," Anzaldo said, summing up why Panhandle Slim's art, which she describes as "accessible and thought-provoking," resonates.

"These simple portraits capture the range of human experience from love and hate to pain and pleasure to seriousness and whimsy." {in}

"I believe everything is political because politics decides the outcome of almost everything on a local, state and national level."

SCOTT STANTON

TOO MANY TRAGEDIES

In addition to drawing his subjects from the stage of history and popular culture, or lending his talents to political campaigns, Panhandle Slim has been focusing on the many characters entangled in this country's various tragedies in recent years.

"I have done paintings of victims of the far too many tragedies our nation has faced," Stanton relayed.

"I think this started when I painted Trayvon Martin."

Notably, Stanton painted works featuring the 2015 shooting victims from the massacre at the Emanuel AME church in Charleston, S.C. To him, living in nearby Savannah, the event "felt personal," and he delivered the paintings of the nine victims as a "love offering" to the church.

"It means a great deal to me to be able to put a lot of time and energy into thinking about the people I paint as well as their families," Stanton wrote. "I do the memorial paintings with a great amount of respect, love and sorrow."

In instances such as this, the artist's contribution has led to lasting and meaningful relationships. For example, Panhandle Slim has become close with Rev. Sharon Risher, whose mother, Ethel Lance, was killed at the church.

"Sharon saw the painting at the church and searched me out and told me how much the painting and paintings meant to her," the artist relayed.

"Sharon has not missed one of my birthdays. She calls me on the phone and sings 'Happy Birthday' to me. We have had some very deep talks over the years, and I've learned a great deal. I have learned a great deal from Sharon and her family."

"It means a great deal to me to be able to put a lot of time and energy into thinking about the people I paint as well as their families." STANTON

November 27, 2020

Panhandle Slim's paintings of the NAS shooting victims will be on display at PMA through January. You should also follow him on Instagram (if you don't already) to see his latest work: instagram.com/panhandle_slim.

Photos courtesy of Pensacola Museum of Art 15

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a&e happenings ing 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.

LOCAL RESTAURANTS GO "BEYOND THE MENU" TO SUPPORT WSRE This

year's WSRE Wine & Food Classic fundraiser was cancelled due to the pandemic.

However, a new TV show will offer viewers a similar culinary experience with the opportunity to sample local cuisine while supporting public television. Hosted by Sherri Hemminghaus Weeks, "Beyond the Menu" will premiere on WSRE at 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, featuring four of the station's longtime restaurant partners—The District: Seville Steak & Seafood, McGuire's Irish Pub, Pot Roast & Pinot and Scenic 90 Café.

With a $100 donation made to the WSRE-TV Foundation, donors will receive a pack of dining vouchers good for a chef's choice menu item and wine pairing at each restaurant. Dining voucher packs are available to the first 500 donors and will be shipped in time for holiday giving.

Donations are being accepted online at wsre.org/beyondthemenu or by calling 484-1054 for details.

ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA IN NEED OF DONATIONS AFTER FIRE Last

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.

NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS PET PANTRY SUPPLIES CRITICALLY LOW The Pensacola Humane Society's Pet

Pantry is in dire need of cat and dog food. Demand is extremely high due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic impacts in our community. The Pensacola Humane Society Pet Pantry provides dog and cat food, litter and treats at no cost to pet owners who come to the shelter and present an acceptable form of identification, such as a driver's license. The Pet Pantry is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. seven days a week at 5 Q. St. For more information, visit pensacolahumane.org.

THE ARC GATEWAY WREATHS OF JOY GALA GOES VIRTUAL The Arc Gateway

invites the community to participate in the 2020 virtual Wreaths of Joy online wreath auction taking place Nov. 25-29. Benefits from this event directly impact over 1,200 children and adults with different abilities the organization serves in Pensacola.

The online wreath auction will replace the well-known annual Wreaths of Joy Gala, the agency's largest fundraiser. The auction is free to virtually attend with wreaths and other items available for bid.

Funds raised from this event will help bridge the gap in funding to sustain programs that enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities in our community. For more information, visit arc-gateway.org.

November 27, 2020

TREE OF LIGHTS FUNDRAISER FOR ARC GATEWAY Pay tribute to someone

special this holiday season by purchasing a light on the Arc Gateway virtual tree. Join WEAR's Sue Straughn on Facebook at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10, to hear the names read aloud. Make your contributions by Friday, Dec. 4. For more information, visit arc-gateway.org.

ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN ADOPTIONS Visit PetSmart at 6251 N.

Davis Highway on Nov. 28 and Dec. 12, noon4 p.m., and meet cats and kittens who will be looking for their forever homes. All cats are up to date on shots and tested negative for leukemia, and the adoption fee includes spay or neuter with microchip and flea pill. Minimum donation fees are $90 for kittens up to 1 year and $55-$75 for adults. Community cat information available; learn to help cats in your neighborhood. Bring hand sanitizer, wear a mask and follow distancing guidelines.

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 follow-

month, Animal Allies Florida, a nonprofit animal rescue located in Pensacola, was devastated by a fire at its foster house for cats where they room free until they are adopted. Tragically, 17 cats and kittens died from smoke inhalation. The surviving cats have been moved to other foster homes.

Animal Allies needs the community's support as many supplies were also lost in the fire.

If you would like to donate cash or supplies, please go to aaflorida.org/info/donate.

ARTS & CULTURE

THE SHOP BLACK POP UP SHOP Come

out for a fun-filled day to celebrate, network and shop with local Black-owned businesses under one roof. The pop-up shop will be Saturday, Nov. 28, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at It's Personal Venue, 2608 W. Cervantes St. Businesses range from art, beauty, custom designs, fashion, food, lifestyle, music, wellness and more. This event is presented

by QueenSheeMee Boutique with DJ and host Hale Morrissette. For more information, visit facebook.com/theshopblackpopupshop.

WILDLY UNNECESSARY PRESENTS: CHRIS COPE See comedian Chris Cope

Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 8 p.m. at Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St. Tickets are $15. For more information, visit facebook.com/wildlyunnecessary.

BARE HAND COLLECTIVE HOLIDAY MARKET Treasures from local arts and

crafts, music by DJ Dad, art demonstrations, baked treats, food truck and K9 adoptions through The Joy Committee 4-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Gary's Brewery &

Biergarten, located at 208 Newman Ave. Admission and parking is free.

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.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PENSACOLA CHILDREN'S CHORUS'S— 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.

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, Nov. 27-Jan. 16.

GREAT GULFCOAST ARTS FESTIVAL 2020 LIMITED-EDITION POSTER AVAILABLE ONLINE With the cancel-

lation of this year's Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival due to COVID-19, the festival committee invited local artist Kreg Yingst to create a poster for 2020 in his original woodcut print design.

The 250 limited-edition posters are each signed and numbered by the artist.

Festival posters have become a local collector's item and are available online this year only. The posters are available at ggaf.org for $27, including shipping and sales tax.

Yingst, a long-time GGAF artist, received his B.A. from Trinity University in San Antonio after attending the University of Texas and his M.A. in painting from 17

a&e happenings

Chris Cope / Courtesy photo

Eastern Illinois University. After graduation, he taught art for 13 years and has been a full-time artist since 2003.

The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival returns Nov. 5, 6 and 7, 2021, at Seville Square, Fountain Park, Bartram Park and Museum Plaza in Downtown Pensacola.

OPERALIVE: THROWBACK THURSDAYS Take a walk down memory lane with

friends of the Pensacola Opera. Learn more about the craft and look back on past productions with live discussions on Facebook Live Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Viewers are encouraged to join in the conversation. Tune in at facebook.com/pensacolaopera.

FALL CLASSES AT MIXON MAGIC PERFORMING ARTS Mixon Magic Per-

forming Arts (MMPA), a boutique performing arts studio located at 1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 328, will be offering a limited class schedule this fall. MMPA offers professional dance, fitness and "Mommy and Me"

818 1

instruction for all ages and skill levels with weekly classes including, but not limited to, Creative Movement, Ballet/Jazz Combo, Broadway, Tap, Showstoppers, Acting and Voice.

Classes will be provided for children as young as 2 years old (with a parent or guardian) through adult.

MMPA is dedicated to the safety and well-being of all students and families and has implemented protocols based on guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Masks are required for entry into the building and studio. More information about Mixon Magic Performing Arts can be found at mixonmagic. com, by contacting hello@ mixonmagic.com or emily@mixonmagic.com or by calling 221-7438.

STAY-IN FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Visit

the Pensacola Library, 239 N Spring St., on Fridays and Saturdays and check out one of the Family Movie Night Bundles. Bundles include a family-friendly movie, a bag of microwave popcorn and a family-friendly activity. Movies can be checked out for seven days, and the rest is yours to keep.

For more information, visit mywfpl.com.

PENSACOLA CINEMA ART REOPENS

Pensacola Cinema Art is now open showing matinee independent films. Admission is $7. Face masks are required, and there will be 50% maximum seating capacity. Tickets can be reserved by calling or texting 863446-7300 or emailing jpncinema@gmail. com. For more information, visit pensacolacinemaart.com.

33ND CINCO BANDERAS COMPETITION OPEN HOUSE Check out artwork in

Artel Gallery's latest exhibit through Dec. 3.

Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox. For more information, visit artelgallery.org.

CRAFT CLASSES AT STUDIO SOUTH ON NINE MILE Learn a new craft or meet

up with other makers at Studio South. Tuesdays is Knit Night 4-7 p.m., and Sit & Stitch is Saturdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Both classes are free. For a full calendar of events, visit studiosouthon9mileroad.com. Studio South is located at 955 E. Nine Mile Road.

PMA NEW EXHIBIT: "BRING ME THE HEAD OF OSCEOLA // THERE IS MORE TO REMEMBER" Pensacola

Museum of Art's latest exhibit is "Bring Me the Head of Osceola // There is More to Remember" from AnArchivist Sean Linezo.

The exhibit interrogates the historical narratives of Osceola's death and explores representations of the famous Seminole leader in visual and popular culture. The exhibition is part of a larger initiative by the artist to make space for the representation of Native Americans in Florida history. The exhibition will be on view in the PMA Stairwell Gallery until Dec. 6. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

GALLERY NIGHT PENSACOLA PRESENTS: ARTIST TALKS Join Gallery Night

Director Sydney Robinson as she interviews Pensacola area artists about their creative process. The Artist Talks series is a biweekly virtual event available on Facebook Live. Join in by visiting facebook.com/ gallerynightpensacola.

SUNDAYS ON THE MEZZANINE Enjoy a full-length concert series every other Sunday at 3 p.m. on Facebook. Tickets are $9.99 and can be purchased online at facebook.com/pensacolaopera.

SINGERS' CINEMA Every Friday after-

noon through August, enjoy a movie pick from the Choral Society of Pensacola. Information on each week's movie and where to find it online will be available on their Facebook page, facebook.com/choralsocietyofpensacola. Some can be viewed free; most are available for rent for under $5. Watch the movie over the weekend, and then join the Choral Society Monday evenings for a Zoom session to share your thoughts.

LIVE MUSIC

PAT MEUSEL AT DOLCE AND GELATO Enjoy tunes from singer/songwriter Pat Meusel from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, at Dolce and Gelato, located at 2050 N. 12th Ave. For more information, visit facebook. com/dolcegelatopensacola.

JAZZ JAM AT THE 5 BARREL Join Jazz Pensacola 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, at The 5 Barrel Brewery & Taproom, 121 S. Palafox. Cost is free to participating musicians and donation-based admission for the general public.

PENSACOLA OPERA AL FRESCO CONCERT SERIES Enjoy fresh air and

free performances from Pensacola Opera artists on Saturdays (weather permitting).

All performances begin at 5:30 p.m. at Seville Square. Visit pensacolaopera.com for more information.

PSO IN THE PARK Grab a lawn chair and blanket and join Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for a series of free outdoor performances on select Sundays at Museum Plaza, located at 120 Church St. Upcoming dates are Nov. 15 and 29. For more information, visit facebook.com/pensacolasymphony.

CURT BOL JAZZ QUARTET Visit Five Sisters Blues CafĂŠ, located at 421 W. Belmont St., Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and listen to Curt Bol Jazz Quartet. Visit curtbolband.com for more information.

OPEN JAM AT ARTEL GALLERY Artel

Gallery is open from 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays for open jam with Pensacola Folk Music Society. Feel free to visit and listen to music. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox.

KARAOKE AT MUGS AND JUGS Sing

your heart out Sundays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway, or just enjoy drinks friends with $4 Smirnoff and $6.50 domestic pitcher drink deals from 7 p.m.-3 a.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/mugsjugs.

LIVE MUSIC AT HUB STACEY'S Sit back with good food and live music at Hub Stacey's,

inweekly.net

a&e happenings located at 312 E. Government St. For a full calendar of bands, check hubstaceys.com.

Slow Rides and advocacy work. For more information, visit lovetoride.net/florida.

MONDAY NIGHT BLUES AT SEVILLE QUARTER Seville Quarter and the Blues

RELEASE & RENEW AT FITNESS IMPACT TRAINING At 8:15 a.m. on Mon-

Society of Northwest Florida bring the "Blues" back to the Seville Quarter Entertainment District, located at 130 E. Government St. every Monday night in End O' the Alley starting at 7 p.m. For more information, visit sevillequarter.com.

FITNESS & RECREATION

2021 BLUE WAHOOS SEASON TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW WITH DEPOSIT

Season Ticket Memberships for the 2021 Blue Wahoos season are available now at bluewahoos.com, and fans may pick out and reserve their seats easily by making a $100 deposit. A map of available seats can be viewed at the Blue Wahoos team website.

Additional benefits are available exclusively to Season Ticket Members, including access to the Better Homes & Gardens Mainstreet Properties Lounge during games, early access to the stadium to watch batting practice at every game, exclusive meet and greets with players and coaches, discounts at the team store and exclusive gifts. Season Ticket Members also have access to the Blue Wahoos Ticketshare program, allowing them to easily re-sell their tickets to any game they cannot attend.

AFTER LIFE Enjoy a meditation and practice hosted by Asher and Bee Apothecary & Tea House and URU Yoga 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 30. Cost is $12. Event will be held at URU Yoga and Beyond, 2400 Executive Plaza Road.

EIGHT ANNUAL USO RUNWAY 5K

The Eighth Annual Pensacola International Airport Runway Run 5k will take place on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m. at Pensacola International Airport. All participants receive a T-shirt, a special finisher's medal, a timing BIB and free food and drinks before and after the run. There will be special awards in several categories. Walkers, strollers and kids are welcome. 100% of the proceeds go to USO Northwest Florida, whose mission is to keep our local military connected to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation. For more information, visit runway5k.com.

LOVE TO RIDE BENEFITS BIKE PENSACOLA Join Bike Pensacola and

riders across the state for the Love to Ride Florida challenge.

The free statewide competition for individuals and organizations is to get more people riding bikes. The Love to Ride Florida challenge continues through the end of November.

Individuals, social groups and workplaces can all participate, with a competition for the top spots on statewide leaderboards.

When you register, join Bike Pensacola as your group and our organization will receive $1 that Bike Pensacola can put toward future November 27, 2020

days, Wednesdays and Fridays, release into a yin yoga flow centered around low-stress training for high-stress individuals. The focus will be on the basics of breath and openness in the shoulders, hips and spine.

For more info, go to mindandmetta.online.

Cost is $12 per class, and the location is 375 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. B. Limited space available. Ask about membership pricing.

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

GULF COAST BREWERY RUN Thurs-

days at 6 p.m., join Pensacola Runners Association for a 5K fun run. Enjoy a free beer after the run and complimentary games such as cornhole, ping pong and more. Gulf Coast Brewery is located at 500 E. Heinberg St. For more information, visit facebook.com/gulfcoastbrewery.

MEDITATIONS IN THE LABYRINTH

Join Empathic Practice and Felipe Muñoz for weekly mediations 5:30 p.m. on Fridays.

The meditations are held at Long Hollow Park on Guillemard Street and are an opportunity for people to get together and practice guided meditations, singing bowl meditation and labyrinth walk meditation.

All classes are free, although donations are accepted. Social distancing will be practiced. Bring your own mat or pillow.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ empathicpractice.

BEER GARDEN YOGA Join Coastal County Brewing Company Saturdays at 9 a.m. for the new Yoga in the Garden Series.

Classes will be led by Tara Taylor, a highly experienced instructor from Breathe Pensacola.

All skill levels are welcome. Cost is $10 and includes a pint of beer after the class. Coastal County Brewing Company is located at 3041 E. Olive Road. For more information, visit facebook.com/coastalcounty.

SOUL FLOW YOGA AT BEAUTIFUL YOU STUDIO Every Tuesday at 7 a.m.,

flow and vibe with some soulful music to start the day. This hour-long class will center around engaging the core through smooth yet strong yoga sequences. Cost is $10 per class or $99 for unlimited 30-day pass. Located at 513 W. Intendencia St. For more info, go to mindandmetta.online.

YOGA CLASSES AT EVER'MAN Beginner Yoga with John is 10 a.m. Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays.

Funky Yoga Flow is 6 p.m. Tuesdays. And Vinyasa Yoga Flow is 6 p.m. Thursdays. All classes at Ever'man, 327 W. Garden St. For a full calendar of events, visit everman.org.

SELF-LOVE SUNDAY AT BEAUTIFUL YOU STUDIO Come show yourself some love through yoga every Sunday morning at 7 a.m. Self-love Sunday Slow Flow is all about giving yourself the love you de-

www. radiofree pensacola .com 19

a&e happenings serve through loving kindness meditation, mindful breathwork and slow vinyasa. Cost is $10 per class or $99 for unlimited 30-day pass. Located at 513 W. Intendencia St. For more info, go to mindandmetta.online.

OCEAN HOUR BEACH CLEAN-UPS

Ocean Hour has picked up its weekly beach clean-ups in the Pensacola area Saturdays at 8:45 a.m. Supplies will be provided, but volunteers are welcome to bring their own.

For locations, visit oceanhourfl.com.

FOOD & WINE

HARVEST MARKET Enjoy a pumpkin

patch, vendors, food trucks and kid-friendly activities in Seville Square 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 28. For more information and a list of vendors, visit orangebeachbreeze.com/nov-28th-harvest-market.

SMALL BREWERY SUNDAY Celebrate small breweries in Downtown Pensacola on Small Brewery Sunday, Nov. 29, with Pensacola Bay Brewery, Big Top Brewing, The 5 Barrel, Perfect Plain, Odd Colony, Emerald Republic and more.

LADIES NIGHT JINGLE & MINGLE Visit Bodacious for the inaugural Ladies Night Jingle & Mingle with wine tastings from Brooke Parkhurst from Angelena's Pensacola, holiday floral centerpiece how-to with Chrissy Helvenston Floral and mini facials

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by DESHI. Event is 6:30-9 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 407-D S. Palafox. Cost is $65.

Reserve your spot at bodaciousshops.com.

DECEMBER WINE DINNER WITH COSTS DE FEMME Five-course menu and

wine pairings, two of which will be presented

by Andy and Kristin Bernard. The dinner is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at So Gourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. Cost is $89. Reserve your spot at bodaciousshops.com.

WINE TASTING AT DOLCE AND GELATO Enjoy a wine tasting and homemade

gelato at 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 3, at Dolce and Gelato, located at 2050 N. 12th Ave. For more information, visit facebook.com/dolcegelatopensacola.

LUNCH AND LEARN: CAST IRON CREAMY POLENTA WITH WILD MUSHROOMS & SAUSAGE Learn to make this po-

lenta dish with Chef Nick noon-1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at So Gourmet, 407-D S. Palafox. Cost is $25. For more information, visit bodaciousshops.com.

PALAFOX MARKET Palafox Market is back at its regular location in MLK Jr. Plaza. In a carefully planned, phased reopening, Palafox Market has launched with about half its regular vendors, showcasing food, farm produce and products geared toward safety and sanitation such as handmade soaps and face

masks. For more information, visit facebook. com/downtownpensacola.

BRIDGE THE GAP SMALL BUSINESS BENEFIT Visit Perfect Plain Brewing Co.

from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, and support vendors from Pensacola Beach and Gulf Breeze businesses. For more information, visit facebook.com/perfectplainbrewingco.

TUESDAY TRIVIA AT ODD COLONY

Exercise your trivia skills at Odd Colony Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/oddcolony.

TAMALE TUESDAYS AT ODD COLONY

Visit Odd Colony Brewing Co. every Tuesday from 5-9 p.m. to grab dinner from The Tamale Truck, one of the newest food trucks from Nomadic Eats. Odd Colony is located at 260 N. Palafox. For more information, visit facebook.com/oddcolony.

and creators gather each under the oak trees to sell their goods to the community. Interested vendors can request an application by emailing requeaskmikellah@gmail.com. For more information, visit facebook.com/palafoxmarkets.

SATURDAYS AT THE MARKET OUTDOOR VENDOR EVENT Located at 5300

Berryhill Road, the outdoor market features artisans and crafters alike from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Social distancing guidelines will be in effect. For more information, email saturdaysatthemarket@gmail.com.

PENSACOLA POP-UP FARMERS MARKET Check out fresh and organic produce,

milk, eggs, meat, fresh-baked bread, mushrooms, lumber, grits, cornmeal, pies and plants Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at East Hill Market, located at 1216 N. Ninth Ave. For a list of vendors, visit facebook.com/easthillmarket.

THURSDAY BIERGARTEN TRIVIA NIGHT Gary's Brewery Trivia Night is back

SUNDAY VIBES IN THE GARDEN

PENSACOLA POSITIVITY'S SUNDAY MARKETS Sunday Markets on Palafox Street

TWILIGHT THREE-COURSE SPECIAL

by popular demand. Thursdays from 7-9 p.m., test your trivia skills with a glass of beer or wine. Arrive early to grab a spot. Gary's Brewery is located at 208 Newman Ave. For more information, visit facebook.com/garysbrew.

happen each Sunday from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. in MLK Plaza on Palafox. Local makers, growers

Sunday Funday is back at Garden & Grain with DJ Hdycvt and drink specials. Safety guidelines will be in place. Visit facebook. com/perfectplainbrewingco for more information. Garden and Grain is located behind Perfect Plain Brewing Co. at 50 E. Garden St.

The District's Twilight Three-Course special is back Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 4:30-6 p.m. Guests enjoy

inweekly.net

a&e happenings three courses for $35 per person. Diners must be seated by 6 p.m. for offer to be vailed. To make a reservation, call 332-5224 or online at districtstreaks.com. The District is located at 123 E. Government St.

KID-FRIENDLY

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR SPRING 2021 PLT CLASSES Have a rising

star at home? Sign them up for classes at Pensacola Little Theatre. Classes include Broadway Babies for ages 4-7; Acting for Kids ages 8-11; Improv for Kids ages 8-11; Acting for Teens ages 12-17, Improv for Actors ages 18+; and Social Media & Video Production ages 14-17. For more information or to register, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

MYSTERY BOOK BUNDLES AVAILABLE AT PENSACOLA LIBRARY

Mystery Book Bundles are available for preschool, middle grade and young adult readers. Preschool bags contain three new picture books. Middle grade and young adult bags contain two themed chapter books. All books can be checked out for three weeks. Mystery bundles are available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Pensacola Library, located at 239 N. Spring St. Visit mywfpl. com for more information.

TAKE-HOME CRAFT KITS Take-away craft kits and other activity bags are available at the circulation desk every day at the Pensacola Library, located at 239 N. Spring St. Availability is on a first come, first served basis. Kits rotate regularly. Available during open hours. Visit mywfpl.com for more information.

CHILDREN'S STORY TIME AT BODACIOUS BOOKSTORE AND CAFÉ Visit

Bodacious Bookstore and Café Saturdays at 11 a.m. for children's story time.

Bodacious Bookstore is located at 110 E. Intendencia St. For more information, visit facebook.com/bodaciousbookstore.

PENSACOLA MESS HALL PRESENTS SCIENCE IN THE SUN The Pensacola

MESS Hall will present Science in the Sun during the month of November. This series of events, held in parks across our community, will each feature a 45-minute interactive science show led by MESS Hall educators. The performances will be geared toward learners in elementary school and their families.

The shows that will be presented in the parks are a part of what learners would experience on a field trip to the MESS Hall. With the loss of field trips from the pandemic, the MESS Hall is eager to inspire curiosity about science by delivering these free shows to the public. In addition, attendees at the programs who provide contact information will also be entered for a chance to win a Flex Pass to the MESS Hall, which provides four people free admission to the museum for six months.

Two different topics will be presented November 27, 2020

on different dates. The first, the Air Show, will be an exploration of the force of air and the components of flight. The second, Robotics Unplugged, engages learners in a range of scientific issues necessary to control a robot. For more information, visit pensacolamesshall.org.

The shows are tentatively scheduled to be held at 2 p.m. at the following venues, weather permitting: •Nov. 28 - Maritime Park, Pensacola—Robotics Unplugged •Nov. 29 - Milton Riverwalk—Air Show

VIRTUAL EVENTS

UWF ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HOLIDAY TRIVIA Kick off the holiday season

with Argos around the country at 6 p.m.

CST Tuesday, Dec. 1. The trivia game will be played on Zoom and Mentimeter. For more information, visit uwf.edu/alumni.

VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP Study

under local Pensacola poet Quincy Hull as he guides you through an introduction to writing your own poetry. This series of pre-recorded video sessions will be available on the Pensacola Museum of Art website. New sessions are released each Monday. Participants are encouraged to submit their own work to be featured on the blog series. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

PENSACOLA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY LECTURE SERIES Join PAS for

virtual meetings this fall. Meetings will take place 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month on Zoom. For more information and registration links, visit pasfl.org/meetings.

Upcoming lectures include: •Dec. 8: The Trials of Viola Edwards: A Window into the 1920s.

ZOOM INTO ARCHAEOLOGY Zoom

into Archaeology is a free online series that features a short presentation by an archaeologist with the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN) via Zoom and an opportunity for participants to ask questions at the end of the presentation. Register for the free Zoom lectures online at flpublicarchaeology.org/nwrc.

UWF SPECTRUM MEETINGS NOW ONLINE Spectrum, UWF's LGBTQ+ sup-

port organization, will continue its typical schedule of meeting every Friday at 6 p.m.

Bi-weekly Spectrum meetings will be online using Zoom.

In their Discord, you can meet other members, ask questions about the club or UWF, share your interests and just have a general good time. It is a very casual place for all to have a sense of community, so don't be scared to join and start socializing.

View the invite link to Discord at discord.gg/Qm4hhvE.

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GRAPHIC NOVELS

KIDS BOOKS

free will astrology WEEK OF NOVEMBER 27 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): "A little

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too much is just enough for me," joked poet and filmmaker Jean Cocteau. I suspect that when he said that, he was in a phase similar to the one you're in now. I bet he was experiencing a flood of creative ideas, pleasurable self-expressions and loving breakthroughs. He was probably right to risk going a bit too far, because he was learning so much from surpassing his previous limitations and exploring the frontiers outside his comfort zone. Now here's your homework, Aries—Identify two actions you could take that fit the profile I've described here.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): Biolo-

gists believe that no tree can grow more than 436 feet tall. As much as an individual redwood or spruce or mountain ash might like to sprout so high that it doesn't have to compete with other trees for sunlight, gravity is simply too strong for it to pump enough water up from the ground to its highest branches. Keep that in mind as a useful metaphor during the next 10 months, Taurus. Your assignment is to grow bigger and taller and stronger than you ever have before—and know when you have reached a healthy level of being bigger and stronger and taller.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): I haven't

felt the savory jolt of bacon in my mouth since I was 15, when I forever stopped eating pigs. I still remember that flavor with great fondness, however. I've always said I'd love to find a loophole that would allow me to enjoy it again. And then today I found out about a kind of seaweed that researchers at Oregon State University say tastes like bacon and is healthier than kale. It's a new strain of a red marine algae called dulse. If I can track it down online, I'll have it for breakfast soon. I bring this to your attention, Gemini, because I suspect that you, too, are primed to discover a fine new substitute—something to replace a pleasure or resource that is gone or taboo or impossible. What could it be?

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): By age

49, Cancerian author Norman Cousins had been struck with two debilitating diseases. His physicians gave him a one in 500 chance of recovery. He embarked on a series of unconventional attempts to cure himself, including "laugh therapy" and positive self-talk, among others. They worked.

He lived lustily for another 26 years and wrote several books about health and healing. So perhaps we should pay attention to his belief that "each patient carries his own doctor inside him"—that at least some of our power to cure ourselves resides in inner sources that are not understood or accredited by traditional medicine. This would be a valuable hypothesis for you to consider and test in the coming weeks, Cancerian.

(Caveat—But don't stop drawing on traditional medicine that has been helping you.)

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By Rob Brezsny

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): In accordance

with astrological rhythms, I'm giving you permission to be extra regal and majestic in the coming weeks. You have a poetic license to be a supremely royal version of yourself, even to the point of wearing a jeweled crown and purple silk robe. Would you prefer a gold scepter with pearls or a silver scepter with rubies? Please keep in mind, though, that all of us non-Leos are hoping you will be a noble and benevolent sovereign who provides enlightened leadership and bestows generous blessings. That kind of behavior will earn you the right to enjoy more of these lofty interludes in the future.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): In the coming weeks, I will refer to you as The Rememberer. Your task will be to deepen and refine your relationship with the old days and old ways—both your own past and the pasts of people you care about most. I hope you will take advantage of the cosmic rhythms to reinvigorate your love for the important stories that have defined you and yours. I trust you will devote treasured time to reviewing in detail the various historical threads that give such rich meaning to your web of life.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): "Those

who build walls are their own prisoners," wrote Libran author Ursula K. Le Guin. She continued, "I'm going to fulfill my proper function in the social organism. I'm going to unbuild walls." I hope that sounds appealing to you, Libra. Unbuilding walls is my first choice for your prime assignment in the coming weeks. I'd love to see you create extra spaciousness and forge fertile connections. I'll be ecstatic if you foster a rich interplay of diverse influences. If you're feeling super-plucky, you might even help unbuild walls that your allies have used to half-trap themselves.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): "If you

can't help me grow, there's no point with you being in my life." Singer and actress Jill Scott said that. In my view, Scorpios may be the only sign of the zodiac that can assert such a sentiment with total sincerity and authority. For many of the other tribes, it might seem harsh or unenforceable, but for you it's exactly right—a robust and courageous truth. In addition to its general rightness, it's also an especially apt principle for you to wield right now. The coming weeks will be a potent time to catalyze deep learning and interesting transformations in concert with your hearty allies.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21):

"You live best as an appreciator of horizons, whether you reach them or not."

Those words from poet David Whyte would be a perfect motto for you to write out on a piece of paper and tape to your bathroom mirror or your nightstand for the next 30 years. Of all the tribes in the zodiac, you Sagittarians are most likely to thrive by regularly focusing on the big picture. Your

ability to achieve small day-by-day successes depends on how well you keep the long-range view in mind. How have you been doing lately with that assignment?

In the coming weeks, I suspect you could benefit from hiking to the top of a mountain—or the metaphorical equivalent—so you can enjoy seeing as far as you can see.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19):

Sensible Capricorn author E. M. Forster (1879–1970) said, "Passion does not blind.

No. Passion is sanity." That's the opposite of what many poets and novelists have asserted down through the ages, which is that passion isn't truly passion unless it renders you half-crazy, driven by obsession, and subject to delusion and irrationality. But in offering you counsel in this horoscope, I'm aligning myself with Forster's view. For you in the coming weeks, Capricorn, passion will help you see clearly and keep you mentally healthy.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): Alpine swifts are small birds that breed in Europe during the summer and then migrate long distance to Africa for the winter. Ornithologists were shocked when they discovered that at least some of these creatures fly for more than 200 days without ever once landing on the ground. They're not always flapping their wings—sometimes they glide—but they manage to do all their eating and drinking and sleeping and mating in mid-air. Metaphorically speaking, I think it's important for you to not act like the alpine swifts in the coming months, dear Aquarius. Please plan to come all the way down to earth on a regular basis.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): There's

substantial evidence that when people talk to themselves out loud in the midst of doing a task, they improve their chances of succeeding at the task. Have you ever heard athletes giving themselves verbal encouragement during their games and matches? They're using a trick to heighten their performance. In accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to experiment with this strategy in the coming weeks.

Increase your brainpower by regularly offering yourself encouraging, supportive instructions. It's fine if you just sort of whisper them, but I'd love it if now and then you also bellowed them.

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: Imagine it's 30 years from now and you're telling God the worst things and best things you ever did. What would they be? Testify at freewillastrology.com.

freewillastrology.com

freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com Rob Brezsny © Copyright 2020

inweekly.net

news of the weird DESPERATE TIMES Passers-by were reported to be incredulous at signs posted since mid-September outside Trillade elementary school in Avignon, France, asking parents to refrain from throwing their children over the locked gate when they are late to school.

"Parents who arrived after the ringtone literally threw their children away," Principal Sanaa Meziane told La Provence with a nervous laugh. "It hasn't happened that many times ... but we preferred to take the lead." While there were no injuries, the practice alarmed school officials enough to create the signs, which feature an adult stick figure tossing a child-sized stick figure over the gate.

UNIFORM COMPLAINTS The BBC reported that Police Constable Simon Read of the Cambridgeshire Police will be the subject of a misconduct hearing on Nov. 25 after being accused of switching prices on a box of doughnuts in February. Read, shopping at a Tesco Extra store while on duty and uniformed, allegedly selected a $13 box of Krispy Kreme doughnuts and replaced its barcode with one from the produce section that lowered the price to 9 cents, then went through the self-checkout line.

In papers filed before the hearing, Read was said to bring "discredit upon the police service ... because a reasonable member of the public ... would be justifiably appalled that a police officer had acted dishonestly and without integrity."

•San Juan, Puerto Rico, police officer Fernando Leon Berdecia, 46, is accused of stealing $1,300 worth of merchandise from a Home Depot on Nov. 16 while wearing his uniform. The Associated Press reported Puerto Rico Police Chief Henry Escalera said Leon has been suspended from the department, and a court date has been set for Dec. 2.

FAKE NEWS Readers of Radio France Internationale's website were alarmed to learn on Nov. 16 of the passing of dozens of world leaders and celebrities, The New York Times reported. Obituaries for Queen Elizabeth II, Clint Eastwood, soccer legend Pele and about 100 others were posted on the broadcaster's website, and it was several hours before the notices were removed. The station issued a statement apologizing to "those concerned" and noting that the prewritten obituaries were accidentally posted as the website was moved to a new content management system.

LINE CROSSED Typo, a gift and stationery retailer in Australia known for its tonguein-cheek merchandise, is drawing fire from moms and dads Down Under after marketing a Christmas ornament that features a small elf holding a sign that says, "Santa isn't real," 7News reported. One dad posted that the item led to an awkward discussion with

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

his son and encouraged other parents to "complain and get these things taken off the shelves." The store said the ornament, which is part of its "naughty" line, has been removed from Typo's in-person and online stores.

"Sometimes we do make mistakes," a spokesperson admitted. "We certainly don't want to take the fun out of Christmas for anyone, especially after the year we've all had."

AWESOME! Twenty concerned citizens in Norman, Oklahoma, turned out on Nov. 17 to help George Simmons, an arborist from Idaho, continue the search for his missing pet raccoon, an effort that had stretched into its second week and included support from the Norman Fire Department, which deployed its thermal imaging technology.

Coonsie had accompanied Simmons when he traveled to Oklahoma to help cut trees around power lines after a freak October ice storm, KFOR reported, but Coonsie got loose in Nov. 6, and Simmons says he won't return to Idaho until he locates her. He has been overwhelmed with gratitude for the Norman residents who are helping him look for Coonsie every night: "I've been all over the United States and never seen the hospitality like I have here," Simmons said.

At presstime, Coonsie was still missing.

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FINDERS KEEPERS Douglas Allen Hatley, 71, of Lakeland, Florida, was arrested on Nov. 16 after the Florida Highway Patrol said he found a metal light pole by the side of the road in Tampa and tried to sell it to Eagle Metals Recycling. The Tampa Bay Times reported the recycling center turned him away because he didn't have documentation for the pole, and officers responding to reports of a 1997 Camry with a pole twice its length strapped to the top pulled him over soon afterward. Hatley told troopers a highway maintenance worker "gave it to me." He was charged with third-degree grand theft.

BAD BEHAVIOR Police in Middlesbrough, England, are asking for the public's help in locating those involved in an apparent egg fight at a local Tesco supermarket during the two minutes of silence meant to honor fallen servicemembers on Nov. 8. Most shoppers at the store on Remembrance Sunday stood still and quiet for the observence, but one customer continued shopping and talking, reported Metro News, and objected when asked to be quiet. "We were all stood still, observing the two minutes' silence when we heard lots of screaming and shouting," one witness said. Police noted "a man allegedly assaulted two women ... following a verbal altercation." {in}

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

Send your weird news items to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com November 27, 2020

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Supporting local business supports your community. Make a plan to shop small on Saturday, Nov. 28 to support the places and people that make Pensacola special. Visit us at the Bodacious Shops on Palafox and at the Bodacious Bookstore & Café on Intendencia.

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