Greater Pensacola Parents December 2022

Make Family Meals More Than A Holiday Tradition

Reports show children who eat at least five times a week with their family are at lower risk of developing poor eating habits, weight problems or alcohol and substance dependencies, and tend to perform better in school than their friends who frequently eat alone or away from home.

Control What You Can

Greater Pensacola

Greater Pensacola’s Foremost Parenting

The holidays are officially upon us. Calendars are filling up with school programs and church concerts while our to-do lists are growing by the day. If we are not careful, a wonderful time with family and friends can become a season of stress. Unfortunately, if you are like me, most of that stress is self-inflicted. I overcommit and put too much pressure on myself, not to mention the way that I overthink the gifts I give. The irony in that is I am not a great gift-giver. You would think someone putting so much thought into gifts would be a fabulous gifter, but I tend to miss the mark. For example, buying the “perfect” phone case but for the wrong size phone.

I am improving, though. I mentioned last year that I have gotten more into giving experiences like concert tickets, gift certificates for classes, or movie passes. We have loved this concept because it gives the recipient something to look forward to, plus a wide variety of options for experience gifts. In addition, experience gifts don’t have to be expensive either. Maybe wrap up some materials for s’mores with a certificate for a night of camping in the backyard. Or even some popcorn and movie box candy with a certifi cate to have a movie night and stay up past bedtime. Sarah Lyons offers some great ideas in 7 Experience Gifts to Give Kids This Season. Get creative with how you wrap the gift so it will be fun to open! For example, you might attach the concert tickets to a band tee or other merch. If you are giving a yoga class gift certificate, wrap it with a yoga mat or water bottle. Not feeling very creative? Just pop on Pinterest, and I am sure you will find some fun ideas.

While we are speaking of experiences and the holidays, you will want to flip over to our Holiday Happenings Guide, which is packed with many holiday outings that are perfect for making memories with your family. Make sure you check out the Family Calendar also to find even more community events for December.

With all of the gift-giving around the holidays, we need to be mindful that our kids are not becoming desensitized to the unique nature of receiving a gift. Instead, we want them to be grateful for all they have and all they receive. So how can we foster and encourage an attitude of thankfulness? Sandi Schwartz has given us some helpful ideas to consider in her feature, How to Balance Receiving with Giving. Something I would like to add to her article is to involve children in the gift process. For example, give them a budget, or have them make something, so they can experience for themselves the thought, time, and effort that goes into giving someone a gift. Maybe even give them cute stationary to write thank you notes after the holidays.

On that note, please remember those struggling financially and/or emotionally this holiday season. Make it a family priority to give back and help those in need. It doesn’t matter if you have a big donation to give to a charity, if you are helping an older neighbor with some repairs, or even just sharing a smile with someone. You never know how that act of kindness may give that person the hope and encouragement they need.

May God bless you with peace, love, and joy this season,

Lynnlynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Source

Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

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Lynn Knighton

lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

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Research Editor

Lucy Green

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Kristi Bush, LSW

Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Sarah Lyons Dave Ramsey Sandi Schwartz

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Naomi McIntosh Photography Facebook.com/NaomiMcIntoshPhotography @naomimcintoshphotography

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Greater Pensacola Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 6241 Pensacola, FL 32503. The phone number for voice and fax is (850) 426-6222.

Greater Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2022 by Keep Sharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Greater Pensacola Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorse ment of products and services herein.

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Control What You Can

My husband and I recently watched Summer Rental, a 1985 movie about a family on vacation. We noticed a stark difference be tween the behavior of the children in this older movie and the behavior of children in more recent productions. The children in “Summer Rental” were more realistic. They talked too much but could entertain themselves without elec tronics, complained, and argued with one another. Children in current family movies are often depicted as quiet, rational, and glued to devices. The difference between the parents was also drastic.

The parents from the 80s movie were in control and demanded respect. Unfortunately, modern media often displays weak parents who care more about making their children happy than about raising productive, healthy adults. It was shocking to see what I observe in my practice daily displayed on the screen.

I often speak with pediatricians, their nurses, and other mental health professionals about the pattern we are all seeing of parents looking for a medical diagnosis instead of simply accepting their responsibility and the

reality of parenting. Unfortunately, many fac tors play into the epidemic that Leonard Sax, MD refers to as “The Collapse of Parenting.”

One factor you may not be aware of is that drug companies are profiting from misrepre senting typical childlike behavior as a medical problem. For example, when I was in graduate school, a bipolar disorder diagno sis required episodes of depres sion and mania to last for days (at least). In the mid-1990s, a group of Harvard researchers success fully argued that bipolar disorder in children was different because the cycles lasted only minutes. Accord ing to their research, children who were sad one minute and happy the next were “abnormal,” which led to a forty fold increase in the prescriptions of Resperdal and Seroquel. When the research team was investigated, it was determined they were paid $4 million by the companies that produced these drugs.

There is an epidemic of parents not owning up to the responsibility of raising chil dren well. Instead of learning how to parent effectively and creating environments that set children up for success, some are looking for excuses, explanations, and accommodations.

How do we fix this? We empower parents to control what they can. The research consis tently reveals that food, sleep, and media significantly impact behavior. You have control of these things. Your children may not like the limits you set, but this is YOUR responsibility.

1. Feed them healthy foods. I always ask interns to notice any commonalities between problem behaviors and nutrition. After only a day or two of doing intakes, every intern has reported that children with the most significant behavior problems only eat highly processed foods full of carbohydrates. These foods spike blood sugar, causing irritability.

2. Ensure they get 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night. A lack of sleep creates symptoms consistent with ADHD and several other diagnoses. Keep bedrooms free of toys and electronics, create consistent bedtime routines, and use sound machines. If you have done everything you can to help your child sleep and nothing works, discuss it with your pediatrician.

3. Place strong limits on video games and handheld media. A growing body of evidence reveals how detrimental these devices are to brain development. Also, these devices limit social interactions and learning experi ences. It is important for children to be bored, observe their environments, and communicate constantly with the people around them.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of differ ent disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

Christmas on the Coast

December 9-11 * 7:30 PM, Friday & Saturday, 2:30 PM, Sunday Saenger Theatre

Christmas on the Coast is a dazzling holiday spectacular where the singers of Pensacola Children’s Chorus will transform the Saenger Theatre into a winter wonderland. You’ll experi ence all of the sights and sounds of the most wonderful time of the year which are sure you put you into the holiday spirit. We hope to see you at the show. Please visit http://www. pensacolasings.org/ for more information.

10th Annual USO Runway 5K

December 3, 2022 * 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Pensacola International Airport

Join us for a 5k on the RUN WAY at Pensacola Interna tional Airport! All registered participants receive an event t-shirt, race bib with timing and a FANTASTIC finishers medal. Proceeds benefit the USO of Northwest Florida. Don’t miss this unique op portunity to run on the runway. The USO creates and maintains strong connections between service mem bers and their families, homes and country, no matter where they serve. The USO expresses America’s gratitude and commitment to service members and their families through programs focused on connection, strengthening, wellness and resiliency. Visit www.runway5k.com to register.

White Tie Rock EnsembleA White Tie Christmas

December 17, 2022 * 8:00 PM

Pensacola Bay Center

A White Tie Christmas featuring the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra! Kick off the holiday sea son with a family friendly holiday tribute concert featuring the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Springsteen, McCartney, the Eagles and other holiday classics at the Pensacola Bay Center in Downtown Pensacola on Saturday December 17, 2022, at 8:00pm. Please visit https://www. pensacolabaycenter.com/ for more information.

Winter Wonder Ride 2022

December 17, 2022 * Blue Wahoos Stadium

Making Spirits Bright! Get in the spirit and join us for a fam ily-friendly slow ride through downtown Pensacola and after party that includes live music, drinks and food at the Wahoos Stadium. Deck out your bike with glowing lights as we ride through Downtown Pensacola. Proceeds raised will be used to purchase new bikes for children in need in the Northwest Florida area. Participants can register online at http://www.onbikespensacola.org/.

Pensacola Symphony Presents Celebrate the New Year!

December 31, 2022 * 7:00 pm

Saenger Theatre

Join us on December 31 to Celebrate the New Year. The bright lights of Broadway come to the Saenger stage as we enjoy musical theatre’s most memorable melodies. For more information or to buy tickets, please visit https://pensacolasymphony.com/product/cele brate-the-new-year-2022/.

Holidays at the House 2022

December 11, 2022 * 10am – 2pm

Ronald McDonald House

Charities of Northwest Florida, Pensacola

Bring your festive spirit to our holiday market and brunch provided by the Hive Foundation, all benefiting the families of Ronald Mc Donald House. The event will feature photos with Santa, market vendors, door prizes, live music, and more. Purchase your ticket today at rmhcnwfl.harnessgiving.org/events/81.

Saenger Theatre

Ballet Pensacola is excited to be back for our annual production of The Nutcracker. Artistic Direc tor, Darren McIntyre, has been creating new choreography for The Nutcracker and we are so excited to add something new to this timeless favorite. Tickets are ONLY available via Ticketmaster or through The Saenger Theatre. The Saenger Theatre Box Office number is (850) 595-3880, or you can visit their box office in person.

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr.

December 9 - 11, 15 - 18, 2022 * Pensacola Little Theatre

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr, December 9 - 18, 2022. The holiday classic soars off the screen in this Broadway Junior, 60-minute musical adapta tion of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “A Holly Jolly Christ mas,” Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ JR. features all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Please visit https://www.pensaco lalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/rudolph-the-red-nosed-reindeer for tickets.

Pensacola Winterfest

Downtown Pensacola Pensacola Winterfest is a family favorite. It is a Christmas celebration that kicks off November 20 and runs until just before Christmas Day. The celebration consists of a series of trolley tours that run through Pensacola and are themed after popular Christmas stories like The Grinch, Polar Express and Scrooge. Kids can also have their photo taken with Grinch and Santa while they enjoy fake snow and dance with their favorite charac ters in preshow events at Winterfest Plaza. Ticket prices vary. Visit https://pensacolawinterfest.org/ for more information.

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

December 10, 2022 * 5:30 PM * Downtown Pensacola

Celebrating its 40th year, the Cox Pensacola Christmas Pa rade draws over 50,000 people to downtown Pensacola. The parade has grown to over 100 entries,

including more than 50 floats, marching bands from every high school in Escambia County, and Pace High School from Santa Rosa County. The parade also features the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from around the region. All profits of the Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade go to the local high school band booster organizations. The Pensac ola Runners Association has teamed up with the Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade for the annual Downtown Parade Christmas Dash. The Christmas Dash is held immediately before the start of the parade, using the parade route as the site location. Please visit http://coxpensacolachristmasparade.org/ for information.

Sean Dietrich in Milton Benefitting Big Brothers Big

Sisters of NW Florida

December 8, 2022 * 7:00 PM

Imogene Theatre, Milton Tickets for the event, “An Evening with Sean of the South”, are on sale now and pro ceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, The Tallahassee Demo crat, Good Grit, South Magazine, and more.

Guests can expect southern storytelling and music from Dietrich, as well as a special guest performance by the Blue Mullet Bluegrass Band. Dietrich will make you laugh, cry, re-live some great memories and entertain you with his wit and wisdom.

Tickets are on sale for $40 per person and can be purchased by visiting bbbsnwfl.org. Doors at the Imogene Theatre open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. Seating is first come first serve. The money raised stays local and is used to fund the agency’s programs and services. Each time Big Brothers Big Sisters pairs a child with a role model, they start something incredible: a one-to-one relationship built on trust and friendship that can blossom into a future of unlimited potential.

Autauga County Schools

Pensacola Catholic High School Poetry Winners

Pensacola Catholic High School started a tradition of sending Birthday cards to all alumni for whom a mailing address was available. The first cards were mailed out approximately five years ago. Recently, CHS switched to custom-created postcards to convey this message. This year, in preparation for printing the postcards for 2023, Advancement Director, Mrs. Rita Lay, collaborated with the CHS English Depart ment to involve students in writing the postcard sentiments. Teachers were asked to involve students in the creation of the “Birthday Card Greeting.” Student entries were written, submitted and then reviewed and judged independently by a panel. Two poems were selected worthy for inclusion as the birthday sentiment, both from Mrs. Coral Anderson’s English II College Prep Class. Lucas Salazar’s poem will be featured on the 2023 postcard and Ramon Hearn’s poem will be included in 2024. In addition to the standard English courses required for a Florida diploma and/or to qualify for a Bright Futures Scholarship, Catholic High also offers electives in Language & Composition, Creative Writing, and Cinematography. Several courses can also be taken as Dual Enrollment or Advanced Placement. Congratulations to both Lucas & Ramon on their winning poem submissions! Pictured: Ramon Hearn ’25, Mrs. Coral Anderson, and Lucas Salazar ’25.

St. Paul Catholic’s Statue Unveiling and Blessing

“Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these”Mark 10:14. In September, St. Paul students came together for the dedication and blessing of our new est addition to campus - a statue of Jesus with the children. The statue is dedi cated to our students in memory of Fr. Thorsen. Our prayer is that as the stu dents arrive to school as well as leave for the day, they will see Jesus and remem ber that Jesus loves them, is always there for them and they can always find comfort in his arms.

Please email news to schoolnews@greaterpensacolaparents.com!

Dia de Los Muertos at Little Flower Catholic

Little Flower Catholic School’s Spanish teacher, Mrs. Hernandez, created a beautiful display to celebrate our students lost loved ones for Dia de Los Muertos. Thank you to all of the families that have supported this event. Many of the students really enjoyed seeing their family members and sharing stories.

Fall Festival is BACK at Creative Learning Academy

Creative Learning Academy’s Fall Festival was back in full swing after 2 years of cancellations due to Covid. CLA’s Fall Fest was fortunate to have plenty of sunshine and blue skies for the event, which was organized by our Family As sociation and helps to fund many activities for the students throughout the school year. We had over 230 students, friends and family members participate in various fun activi ties, which included Pensacola’s Knockerball, sink an 8th Grader dunk tank, inflatable obstacle courses, inflatable slides, Malibu mechanical surfboard, face painting, Animal Tales live animals, Balloon Pop, Pick a Pop, Go fish, CLA’s famous Cake Contest, Rock your Photobooth, and our very own mysterious Fortune teller! Delicious food was provided to festival goers by Texas B’s BBQ, Chick-fil-A, and Local Boyz Hawaiian Shaved Ice. Fall festival is such a great way for CLA to celebrate the season—and take advantage of the educational opportunities that stem from the weather getting cooler. Full of delicious smells and tastes, autumn is a wonderful time of year and one of the most recognizable seasons. Autumn offers opportunities to learn across the curriculum and is a wonderful way for everyone in kindergarten through grade 8 to enjoy the many great activities that the fall season brings our way. CLA’s Fall Festival is an annual tradition and the most successful Family Association event of the school year. This is FA’s major fundraiser that helps them continue to provide engaging activities and faculty recogni tion luncheons throughout the school year. All proceeds from the Fall Festival are used to enhance the students’ learning environment and help support our faculty and staff.

East Hill Christian School Educates Students Morally

At East Hill, we prioritize the develop ment of critical thinking skills which are anchored in the Word of God. It is our be lief that East Hill Christian School needs to encourage the development of the students by planting seeds of godly wis dom. One way this is achieved is through monthly Huddle Groups. Huddle Groups provide the opportunity for upperclass men to lead younger students in a small group setting. Together they are able to encourage, minister, and grow in their faith together.

St. Paul Catholic’s Fischers Landing Project

Redeemer Lutheran’s

Annual Walk

Redeemer Lutheran School loves to give back. Every year, they organize a walk to raise money for a worthy cause. This year, proceeds will go to help rebuild and repair Lutheran schools that were damaged or de stroyed by Hurricane Ian.

St. Paul students from the Spring 2022 Nature Journaling Elective were honored and recog nized at the Pensacola and Perdido Bay Estuary Symposium at Bayview Community Center for the nature signs they helped to create along with Mrs. Fink at Fischer Landing. This STREAM based project addressed some of the environ mental concerns of erosion, estuaries, and wa tersheds of the Escambia River. After a hands-on field trip that fol lowed the watershed of the Escambia River, students worked together in small teams to put together their own versions of the proposed nature signs.

chestertonpensacola.org

16 Escambia County Public Schools to Receive School Recognition Awards

Sixteen Escambia County Public Schools will receive School Recognition Award dollars from the state based on their school grades from the 2021-2022 school year. Florida School Recognition Program recognizes the high quality of many of Florida’s public schools. As authorized in Florida State Stat ute the program provides greater autonomy and financial awards to schools that demonstrate sustained or significantly improved student performance. Schools that receive an A grade or schools that improve at least one performance grade category are eligible for school recognition. School personnel develop, vote on, and submit plans for the distribution of funds. The distribution propos als must then be approved by each school’s School Advisory Council (SAC).

“We are proud of the efforts put forth by all of our schools, and particularly of the efforts of those who are now being rewarded with School Recognition Awards,” said ECPS Su perintendent Dr. Tim Smith. “We have faced some very challenging times over the past two years, and to show such improvement is no small feat.”

Escambia County Public Schools awarded this year are:

Hellen Caro Elementary School

N.B Cook Elementary School

Cordova Park Elementary School

Navy Point Elementary School

Pensacola High School

A.K. Suter Elementary School

Warrington Elementary School

Workman Middle School

Holm Elementary School

Brown Barge Middle School

Lincoln Park Elementary School

Hope Horizon at Judy Andrews Center

West Florida High School

Molino Park Elementary School

Pensacola Beach Elementary School

National Honor Society of Pensacola Catholic High Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character

Senior members of the Aquinas Chapter of the National Honor Society of Pensacola Catholic High School recently demonstrated their Service and Character through their collection of 100 pairs of glasses and 500 batteries that they donated to the homeless outreach program at the AlfredWashburn Center. The Society is an organization with chapters across the nation that is open to high school students who are eligible based on four criteria: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Students who meet the scholarship requirement based on their GPA are evaluated by the CHS faculty for the equally important criteria of scholarship, leadership and service. On No vember 16, Catholic High held the annual Induction Ceremony that welcomed 32 new students to join their ranks. The Catholic High NHS moderators are faculty members Alexandra Brown, and Chris Gulig, both of whom were members of National Honor Society when they were in high school. Congratulations to the new members of the CHS National Honor Society! Pictured: Five current NHS members--Caroline Struck, Lexi Foland, Aubree Wartman, Zach DeJesus, and Ian Sullivan loading up glasses and batteries to be delivered to the Alfred-Washburn Center.

Send Your School News to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.

Redeemer Lutheran STEM Fun

Students at Redeemer Lutheran love STEM class. It allows them to combine their newfound knowledge and their creativity. A recent project had them us ing construction paper, tape, and a little ingenuity to design and build creations strong enough to hold their supplies. Too bad the three little pigs never hired the students at Redeemer Lutheran to build their houses. They absolutely could have made those sticks and straws work.

Autauga County Schools

St. Paul Catholic Knighting Ceremony

SPCS held its annual Knighting Ceremony for middle school in September. Sixth graders were sorted into one of four houses: St. Michael the Archangel, St. Joseph, St.

Bump, Set, Spike at Montessori School of Pensacola

The first ever volleyball team at Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) made it to the playoffs with the Catholic Youth Sports League (CYSL). Upper El ementary and Middle School students at (MSP) are part of the MSP Mantray team. MSP plays against other independent private schools in the area. In addition to volleyball, MSP now has a flag football team. MSP thanks the amazing parent volunteer coaches for all their time and energy.

Montessori Middle School Arts Fest Volunteers

7th and 8th grade students from Montessori School of Pensacola give their time each year at the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival in downtown Pensacola. The MSP students spend Friday of the arts fest volunteering at booths open to children with special needs from selected area schools. The children’s art area is just south of Seville Square in Bartram Park. There are a variety of great art projects for kids to get their hands on, all provided free of charge, including face painting, clay play, a flower shop, button creations, sand art, and sidewalk art. MSP Middle Schoolers help the visiting students with glitter, glue, sequins and the like to make things like masks, crowns, magic wands, and jewelry. This was the 50th anniversary year of the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival. Volunteering there has been a part of the MSP Middle School community service project

Lipscomb Celebrates Veterans

Staff and students from Lipscomb Elementary school welcomed military members and veterans to campus for their annual Veteran’s Day Parade last Thursday. Students cheered on these heroes as they made their way around campus.

Little Flower Catholic School Halloween Bash

Little Flower students enjoyed a Halloween Bash last month hosted by our Student Council. Thank you to our Student Council and teachers who worked to have this event for our students.

Pensacola Catholic High Visitation Days

Every Fall during the last week of September and into October, Pensacola Catholic High School hosts multiple Visitation Days to welcome eighth graders from local middle schools. This year’s events were attended by a total of 225 students. Visitation Days start with an assembly in the gymna

sium where they are greeted by Student Ambassadors. After a spirted welcome by Cheerleaders and the Crusader Band, Sister Kierstin Martin, Principal, officially welcomes the visitors and summarizes what their half-day at CHS will entail. The middle school students are then divided into small groups and led on tours of the new Athletic Complex and the Science Department where they take part in several scientific experiments. Students then rotate to six different classrooms for a brief “taste” of the curriculum that is offered at Catholic High School rang ing from Literature to World History, English, Spanish, Sign-Language, Personal Finance, Religion, Geometry, and Personal Fitness. CHS also offers various levels of Math, Science and Social Studies. In between their six “classes” students are offered a snack while they visit the new Student Life Center. They also visit the school’s Library/Media Center where they are introduced to the technology that is used throughout the curriculum. Students finish their morning with visits to the state-of-theart Robotics/STEM lab, Music Building, and Art Studio. Students finish their visit at noon and are provided information about the Placement Test before their departure.

East Hill Christian Volleyball Beats Their Best Record

The Lady Eagles Volleyball team finished their 2022 season this month with their best record since the ‘90s. While taking home first in the Eastern Pensacola Christian Conference and second overall in the PCC, this team remained diligent, committed, and driven. We can’t wait for next season.

Send School News each month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.

Autauga County Schools

Schole Scholars Lamar Advertising Trip

East Hill Christian’s Fall Pep Rally

This past month East Hill Christian had our Fall Pep Rally to not only recognize the season’s sports teams and players, but to come together and show off our EHCS pride. The afternoon included a routine from the Lady Eagles Cheer team, a faculty versus senior volleyball game, and student relay races. To close it out, the Spirit Stick was awarded to the Senior class.

St. Paul Spartan middle school Schole Scholars took a field trip to Lamar Advertising. The students learned about the history of the com pany, all aspects of billboard design and even participated in deciding the font for a client of the company.

St. Paul Catholic’s LEGO Robotics

Spartan students love working with our new LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime Sets. These Lego robots are a STEAM learning tool that uses a coding language based on Scratch. Our Lego Robotics elective class engages students through fun learning activities to think critically and solve complex problems while helping students learn the essential STEAM and 21st century skills needed to become the innovative minds of tomorrow.

Montessori School of Pensacola Studies Botany

Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) Pri mary class students excitedly compared their heights to a sunflower plant. In Montessori educa tion, the study of “botany” refers to nature. Students learn the parts of a plant, what plants need to grow, differ ences in types of plants, and more. In a Montes sori classroom, students learn love and respect for nature. They also learn how to differentiate between living and non-living things. Students come to understand that plants, animals and so on all have life, and therefore, we as human beings need to respect that life and value the importance of all living things.

Does it feel like your kids already have more toys than they could ever want? I love the holidays and the spirit of gift-giving, but every year, I wonder what toys my kids could possibly want and where they will go in our already crowded home. Experience gifts are a great gift option that has benefits for kids, parents, and other gift-givers.

Here are some excellent experience gift ideas for every child on your list.

Season pass

One of my family’s favorite gifts is seasonal passes to local attractions. This saves us money and encourages us to get out, enjoy our city, and make memories along the way. Some attractions to consider are zoo admission, a local museum, amusement park tickets, or swimming season passes to the area pool.

Subscription box

A subscription box is a great gift idea especially for tweens and teens who are hard to buy for. They are now available for any age, interest, and price range. So if your child loves science, reading, art, games, or sports, chances are there is a subscrip tion box that will fit their interests.

Classes and camps

Consider giving the gift of prepaid classes or camps that fit your child’s interest. Some ideas include dance, gymnastics, sports, cooking, art, or music. Classes and camps can be ex pensive but are worth the money and allow kids to try something new.

Travel

Consider combining your holiday and vacation budget by taking a family trip. Whether it’s an overnight trip to a nearby indoor water park or a cross-country trip, traveling is a great way to expose your child to different places and build family memo ries simultaneously.

Tickets

Tickets to a favorite sporting event, concert, or show is a great idea for a gift for the whole family. Combine the gift with a T-shirt to wear to the event or a backstage tour to make the day more memorable.

Box it up

If your budget is a little smaller, try putting together several things in a box for your child to enjoy. For example, create a movie box with a movie or video rental gift card, candy, popcorn, and a warm blanket so the family can enjoy a movie night at home. Combine art supplies, sketchbooks, paints, and other craft items for an art box. You could also put together a cooking box, ingredients for homemade playdough with cookie cutters, or a gardening box with seeds, gloves, and tools. Get creative and combine your child’s interests to create a customized package.

Adventure gifts

For the adventurous child, look for experience gifts that give them a chance to try something they wouldn’t usually get to do. Some ideas could include horseback riding, fishing, camp ing, rock climbing, indoor skydiving, or a day at a gym with an obstacle course or trampolines.

With an experience gift, your child will create great memo ries while enjoying something they may not have had the opportunity to try otherwise. A bonus is that there is no need to store the item after the child has grown tired of playing with it.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance journalist and contributing writer.

Devices as Christmas Gifts... What You Need to Know

Christmas is here! I feel like we were celebrating last year’s Christmas, well, yesterday. Time sure does fly. I think being a parent immediately puts all of us in a time warp. Speaking of, how much do you miss the “old days” of Christmas? If you are north of 30, you know what I am talk ing about. Devices were not the “main gift”. We used to ask for bi cycles, coloring books, Lite-Brites, Cabbage Patch Kids, or a base ball bat. Okay, maybe you need to be north of 40 to remember some of those, but the reality is that devices didn’t become the main attraction until about 10, maybe 15, years ago. Other than the occasional Nintendo, our parents were not out buying cell phones, iPads, or gaming de vices that had access to the entire world.

I am also willing to bet if you had ap proached one of your parents with the idea of “do you want to buy a device that will allow your 8-yearold to have access to anyone across the world at all hours of the day,” they would have told you to take a hike. I think there is something to be said for the “go outside and play” generation. Our gifts usually brought us together with friends or, at the very least, spurred a safe, creative outlet.

But as much as we can wish for the old days, we are most definitely in a new

and different generation. And if your child has their first cell phone or gam ing device on their list, there are a few things we must consider first, as parents, to protect our kids. First, how old is your child? And I do not mean just chronologi cally. What is their maturity level? I have met many 16-year-olds I did not think should have access to any online activity. Take some time to think about how your child acts and reacts to situations. Do they follow your rules? Will they obey the boundaries you set, or will they test them at all times? This will help you decide if it is time for a device, if they need restrictions placed on it, or if they may not need one at all.

Secondly, are you ready for a part-time job? What does this mean? The parents I work with always ask, “What is the ‘best age’ for a device?” I always respond with, “Are you ready for a part-time job?” Are you ready for your relationship with your child to change? Because the reality is that to protect children, we MUST look at what they are doing. This means we must learn how to operate their phone. You need to know how to use each app on the phone. How to access their folders and pictures. And then you must

invest the time, weekly in the beginning for our young kids, doing random device checks. This is time-consuming. And the harsh reality is it will never feel like enough. You will always feel like you need to protect them more. And you will always wonder if they are doing things you cannot access and should not be doing.

Third, are you ready to set boundar ies and rules around the device? You must do this to protect your child. Not just from others but from themselves. And, these boundaries must be established early. I encourage you to talk about kids before purchasing a phone or device. Because if the limits cannot be agreed upon, then it may not be time for a device in the home.

While all of this may sound exhaust ing and stressful, we must ensure we do what we can to protect our kids. If your gut feeling is that your kid is not ready for a device, it is okay to listen to that feeling. And to wait. They will survive. Maybe a “throwback” Christmas with toys that encourage time together is just what everyone needs.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience.

She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associ ated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knb communications.com.

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One of the critical challenges of holiday time is that our children get so used to receiving oodles of gifts that they begin to expect that they will always get more and more. But have you noticed how quickly they lose interest in many toys they receive during the holidays?

Showering our children with gifts every year can end up being detrimental if they become numb to the excitement of presents and focus only on the receiving side of the holidays. However, there are several ways to instill some balance so that our children learn to appreciate what they receive while also giving to others.

Express Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the most impor tant ways to boost happiness, provid ing us with incredible psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits. It improves our health, reduces stress, and helps us focus on the positive aspects of life. In addition, teaching our kids how to step back and be thankful for what they have will keep them grounded and help them realize just how lucky they are to receive toys and other gifts at holiday time.

You can encourage your kids to express their gratitude for the gifts they receive by writing thank-you notes to friends and relatives. You can also go around the dinner table and invite everyone to say how grateful they are for each gift and why it is so meaningful to them. Finally, journaling is one of the most popular and effective ways to ex press gratitude. It encourages our kids to acknowledge the joyous moments in their day, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Consider giving them their own gratitude journal this holiday season, so they have the perfect place to record what they are thankful for, including their holiday gifts and other special moments throughout the year.

Learn That Less Is More

How many dolls does one little girl really need? If you dig through your chil dren’s old toys, you may be taken aback by how many of each item they have: mul tiple puzzles, games, cars, trucks, plastic figures, and art supplies. It never ends. When they are showered with too many presents, it reduces the interest value of each toy very quickly. According to Kim John Payne in Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids, kids who are inundated with toys are so overwhelmed that they are unable to play by themselves and can even develop focus issues.

It is essential to teach our children how to pick and choose a few special gifts they would like and not go overboard. Par enting coach Carla Naumburg developed a fabulous poem to inspire the types of presents to give to children for the holidays that help make each gift meaningful. This approach goes beyond just the toys chil dren typically want, allowing parents and children to be more creative with gifts.

Give to the Less Fortunate

The holiday season can quickly become a shopping spree if we are not careful. But this is a particularly critical time of year to remember those who cannot cel ebrate the holidays like we are with piles of gifts. December is the perfect time to clean out the playroom and practice some giving. Spend time each year going through every nook and cranny to weed out the old toys before you bring in the new ones. Ask your children to collect piles of items to recycle, throw away, and donate. When the children choose from their own pile of toys, it creates a powerful hands-on experience to learn about the balance between giving and receiving.

After you do this exercise a few times, your kids will automatically realize that no matter what new gifts they receive, they will choose some that they no longer play with to give to children who may not get any presents at all. This is a habit that everyone can easily add to their holiday traditions.

You can also encourage your children to forgo a new gift or two to purchase items for those in need. Look for a holiday toy drive in your community to support and take your kids with you to purchase the items and deliver them to the charity.

Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parent ing, wellness, and environmental issues. As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, her mission is to inspire and educate families to build a nature habit to feel happier and calmer. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.

Something you want, something you need, to wear, to read.

Something to see, something to spare, something to cook, something to share.

December Holiday Ice Skating

@ Pensacola Bay Center

201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Select Dates. Please visit website for a listing of most up-to date times and prices. Enjoy an hour of skating at the Pensacola Bay Center while experiencing the holiday ambience. 850-432-0800 www.pensacolabaycenter.com/iceskating/public-skate-sessions

Now through December 24

Photos with Santa at the Wharf

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Weekends and select event dates. Children can also bring their wish list letters to give to the Jolly Claus or write one in his village. Open Fridays (3-6 pm), Saturdays (10am–6pm) and Sunday (noon–6pm). Times subject to change. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Now through December 26

Sowell’s North Pole Christmas Light Display

7650 Sowell Road Milton, FL 32570

A drive through Christmas light show. Open nightly 5:30pm - 9:00pm. www.facebook.com/sowellsnorthpole

Now through January 4

Magic Christmas in Lights ad on

page 23

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Join us for the 27th season. You will stroll through a dazzling light display throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. In addition, the Bellingrath Home is decorated in its holiday finery and enhanced with beautiful poinsettias. 251-973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

December 1

Wreaths of Joy

@ Pensacola Bay Center 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Enjoy a three-course dinner, entertainment,

auctions, and more! Proceeds support the many programs at The Arc Gateway 850-287-5859 www.arc-gateway.org

December 1-2

Ho-Ho Homicide Murder Mystery Dinner Show @ OWA 1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535 Looking for a little mystery and great food this holiday season? Don’t miss the holiday-themed murder mystery dinner show, Ho-Ho Homicide at the Brandon Styles Theater in Downtown OWA. 251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

December 2, 2022 Story Tyme with Grandma

Jenkins - A Loud Winter’s Nap/Santa is Coming to Florida ad on page 7

@ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join Grandma Jenkins at 11:00am for holiday stories and cookies. Free public reading program. December 2: A Loud Winter’s Nap and December 16: Santa Claus is Coming to Florida 850-595-5985 www.historicpensacola.org

December 2-3

2022 Christmas Caravan

Arts & Crafts Show

@ St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church 3200 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503 Gifts, arts/crafts, food and more! Free admission. Entertainment, kids activities and puppy dogs for adoption! Friday 9am - 4pm, Saturday 9am - 3pm. 850-384-4800; 850-479-9962 www.scpen.org

St. Mary’s Winterfest Arts & Crafts Fair

@ St. Mary’s Episcopal Church - Parish Hall 6850 Oak Street Milton, FL 32570

One-of-a-kind custom jewelry, art, woodcrafts, candles, baked goods and other creative handi work. Retail sales vendors also will showcase their great products as well. Hours-Friday Noon-6pm, Saturday 9am-2pm 850-623-2905 www.stmarysmilton.wixsite.com/church

Choral Society of Pensacola’s

Christmas Messiah

@ Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

1212 E. Moreno Street Pensacola, FL 32503

Selections from Handel’s Messiah and other cho ral music for the season performed by a 100-voice chorus with orchestra and Pensacola Opera’s Jan Miller Studio Artists as soloists. December 2–7:30PM and December 3–Noon. 850-484-1806 www.choralsocietyofpensacola.org/

December 2, 3, 9, 11, 16-18, 20-24

Winterfest Activities

@ Downtown Pensacola

223 South Palafox Street Pensacola , FL 32502 Wander along the streets throughout the holidays and see live street performances, concerts and more! Santa and Grinch photos, Polar Express, Grinch Tour, Cajun Christmas, Scrooge Tour, and more! 850-583-1365 www.pensacolawinterfest.org

December 3

Gulf Breeze Jolly Holiday Market

@ Gulf Breeze Parks and Rec Community Center

800 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

The Jolly Holiday Market will be inside the Gulf Breeze Parks and Recreation Community Center from 9:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Local businesses, artists, and vendors are all encouraged to join in selling their homemade and festival items.

850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezeparksandrecreation. com/christmas-parade

Milton Christmas Parade

Highway 87 (Stewart Street) Milton, FL 32570

Milton Christmas Parade Parade rolls at 6pm. Theme: A Very Merry Pirate Christmas. Informa tion/Registration: (850) 748-9696..

850-623-2339 www.kreweofairshippirates.com/2022christmas-parade

Holiday Market at Seville Square

@ Seville Square

311 E Government Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Come get your Holiday shopping done early at the Holiday Market at Seville Square downtown Pensacola from 10- 5PM. Vendors, Food Trucks, Bounce House, Kids Ornament Station, Raffles, and

Live Entertainment. Free admission. 10am-5pm. www.apexshowsandevents.com

Sensory Friendly Santa & Holiday Party

@ Marcus Pointe Baptist Church, Building A 6205 North W Street Pensacola, FL 32505

Sensory Friendly Santa & Holiday Party on Sat urday, December 3rd from 9:00am-1:00pm. Reg istration required, please visit www.autismpen sacola.org to register.

850-434-7171 shanan@autismpensacola.org www. autismpensacola.org

Gulf Breeze Jolly Holiday Parade

@ Gulf Breeze High School

675 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

Jolly Holiday Parade-4pm. The new parade will be featuring homemade floats, classic cars, a marching band, bicycles, and walking participants. The parade will start at Gulf Breeze High School and go to the Parks and Recreation Community Center.

850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezeparksandrecreation. com/christmas-parade

Navarre Christmas in the Park

@ Navarre Park

8513 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566

Gifts, vendors, entertainment, concessions, cook ies and hot chocolate, games, santa’s workshop, visits with santa and more. 9am-4pm. 850-939-3267 www.navarrechamber.com

Navarre Community Christmas Parade

@ Navarre Library

Navarre, FL 32566

Parade at 1pm at the Navarre Library and end in

the back parking lot of Centennial Bank. Santa and Mrs. Claus, will arrive by fire truck and will be available for photos with children. www.navarrechamber.com

Lighted Boat Parade

@ Sabine Marina to Pensacola Beach Boardwalk

Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Boat Parade at 6:30pm. See Santa on the lead boat! Pre-parade party with Santa from 4pm-6pm at Shaggy’s with Ornament and cookie decorating. 850-932-1500 www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Navarre Jingle Bell Run

@ Holley-Navarre Fire Station 8618 Esplanade Street Navarre, FL 32566

Navarre Chamber Foundation will help you start your holiday season with “Bells on” with this Family Fun Run through the local neighborhood. 8:00am start. Registration available online. 850-939-3267 www.runsignup.com/Race/FL/ Navarre/NavarreJingleBellRun

Christmas Car Show

@ Buick GMC Pensacola

5651 Pensacola Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32505 Pensacola for the Christmas Car Show with a toy drive benefiting Toys for Tots! Events kick off at 9:00am with Santa for wish lists and pictures, a kids’ costume contest throughout the day, food trucks and prize drawings/awards until 2:00pm.

December 3 - 4

A Pensacola Christmas 500 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32501 Songs of the Season with Festival Choir, Or chestra, Children’s Choirs, Soloists, and special

guests...The Pensacola Children’s Chorus. 6pm 850-433-5631 www.fbcp.org/a-pensacola-christmas

December 3, 4, 10

Emerald Coast Theatre presents

“A Charlie Brown Christmas”

@ Emerald Coast Theatre Company 560 Grand Blvd (Ste 200) Miramar Beach, FL 32550

Discover the true meaning of Christmas with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts Gang in this classic adaptation of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Presented by ECTC’s talented Junior Company teen players. December 3-, 9:30am, December 4th-2:30pm and December 10-9:30am 850-684-0323 www.emeraldcoasttheater.org

December 3, 10, 17

Alyssa’s Holiday Market Events

@ Alyssa’s, The Refinery & Alyssa’s Etc.

4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571

Get a head start on your Christmas lists with our Holiday Markets. Visit us online or check our Facebook page. Market times: 9am - 3pm. 850-994-9114 www.shopalyssas.com

December 3-18

Beachmas Laguna’s

ad on page 19

@ Laguna’s 460 Pensacola Beach Boulevard Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Every Saturday and Sunday join us for a jolly good time this holiday season at Beachmas every Saturday and Sunday from December 3rd through 18th. This family-friendly event will create

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

long-lasting memories with activities that include 3-hour park passes, an inflatable bounce house, mini golf, a hot cocoa bar, Christmas crafts, snow, live music and more! Guests can purchase a Beachmas wristband for $34.99 or special activi ties separately from the a la carte menu. Food is not included with a wristband but a full menu will be available at Laguna’s Bar & Grill. Saturday, De cember 3rd & Sunday, December 4th, from 11am to 1pm: Enjoy lunch with a storytime narrated by Santa at 12:30p. Saturday, December 10th & Sunday, December 11th, from 11a to 1p: Enjoy dinner with a storytime narrated by Santa at 5:30p. Saturday, December 17th & Sunday, December 18th, from 3p - 5p: Experience go-kart racing and adventures in the park with Santa. 850-677-3905 www.lagunaspensacolabeach.com/ beachmas

Brunch with Santa

@ OWA

1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535 You’re invited to a special pancake brunch with the jolly man himself this Christmas season. Se lect dates this holiday season at The Bohemian in Downtown OWA, guests can dine with Santa and enjoy a delectable pancake spread. Reservations can be made online at VisitOWA.com/Christmas. Selected Dates. Hours and dates for all activi ties are subject to change. Detailed information, reservations, and a full list of holiday events can be found online at VisitOWA.com/Christmas. 251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

December 3-22

The North Pole Experience @ OWA

1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535

Children and families will be able to participate in free Christmas crafts with Santa’s Elves while waiting to grab a photo with the jolly man himself! Selected Dates. Hours and dates for all activi ties are subject to change. Detailed information, reservations, and a full list of holiday events can be found online at VisitOWA.com/Christmas. 251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

December 3 - 25

Gulf Breeze Decorating Contest

@ Various locations

Submit your address in the competition to be fea tured on a map from Dec 3 to Christmas Day. The public will be able to view our map online and tour decked out homes in the area and vote on their favorite! The home that receives the most votes will be given the Griswald Award on Dec. 23 850-932-7888 www.gulfbreezechamber.com

December 4

Hope for Everyone

@ Olive Baptist Church

1836 E Olive Road Pensacola, FL 32514

Presented by the Olive Choir and Orchestra, Hope for Everyone will captivate all ages with dazzling lights, orchestral compositions, and gospel-cen tered truth. Performances are at 3pm and 6pm, and doors open 30 minutes before each show. The concert is completely free, BUT you must claim a ticket for admittance. Visit olivebaptist.org/ christmas to learn more.

850-476-1932 www.olivebaptist.org/christmas

Star Stomp - Kids Musical

@ Pine Terrace Baptist Church

6212 Pine Blossom Road Milton, FL 32570

The stars have aligned on this silent night...and all of our sparkly friends can feel it! It’s time for a very

important baby to be born. It’s time for the stomp we’ve all been practicing for! 6:00pm 850-623-3954 www.ptbc.org

Surfing Santa Beach Parade

@ Via de Luna to Casino Beach

Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Surfing Santa Beach Parade at 2pm. 850-932-1500 www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Caring Santa at Cordova Mall

@ Cordova Mall

5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

A time for children with special needs and their families to visit with Santa and have a photo taken. The environment will accommodate the needs of the children. 9:30-10:30AM. Registration required and can be made online. 850-477-7562 cordovamallsanta.splashthat.com

December 7

An Evening with Santa

@ Cokesbury Church

5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Come as a whole family to hear Santa tell the story of Jesus’ birth, enjoy crafts, and eat a kidfriendly meal. Children will have the opportunity to share their wishes with Santa individually. Families are welcome to take their own pictures with Santa. 5:45pm, $7 per family. Register online at www.cokesburychurch.com 850-476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

December 8

Holly Jolly Christmas Ball

“A Christmas to Remember” ad on page 23

@ Sanders Beach - Corinne Jones Resource Center 913 South I Street Pensacola, FL

Doors open at 6:30 pm. Enjoy a Christmas themed dinner party with a twist and live entertainment featuring the Pensacola Youth Ballet and LaBelle Repertory Theatre. During intermission Mr. Big and the Rhythm Sisters will entertain!! This is a great way to kick off your family’s Christmas holidays! Tickets are $70 per person (includes dinner). 850-944-5650 frontdesk@labelleperformingarts.com

December 8-18

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical

@ Emerald Coast Theatre Company 560 Grand Blvd (Ste 200) Miramar Beach, FL 32550

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: the Musi cal - Thursday, Friday, and Saturday’s 7:30pm, Wednesday and Sunday 2:30pm 850-684-0323 www.emeraldcoasttheater.org

December 9

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra “Holiday Pops”

@ Mattie Kelly Arts Center at NWF State College 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 Enjoy the spirit of the season! 7:30pm 850-729-6000 www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

December 9-11

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Christmas on the Coast ad on page 17

@ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 This larger-than-life perennial spectacular is packed full of the best sounds of the season.

7:30pm, Friday & Saturday and 2:30pm, Sunday 850-434-7760 admin@pensacolasings.org www.pensacolasings.com

December 9-18

Pensacola Little Theatre presents

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL 32502

The holiday classic soars off the screen in this Broadway Junior, 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved television special. 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com

December 10

Billy Claus visits LuLu’s!

ad on page 9

@ Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s will read a Christ mas story at 1:45, and listen to your wish list! Billy will arrive at 2pm! Bring a toy to donate to LuLu’s Toy Drive. Lulu’s boat parade starts at dusk. 251-967-LULU (5858) www.lulusfunfoodmusic.com/

Breakfast and Skating with Santa

@ Weber’s Skate World

6056 Stewart Street Milton, FL 32570

Breakfast, pictures, and skating with Santa!

Limited Tickets. 8 am-10 am. $12.00 per person includes admission, skate rental, Santa visit, and breakfast.

850-626-4070 www.weberskateworld.com

Gaither Christmas Tour

@ Olive Baptist Church

1836 E Olive Road Pensacola, FL 32514

Nothing will get you more into the Christmas spirit like the Gaither Vocal Band Concert performed by Bill Gaither and friends featuring gospel, hymns, a cappella, bluegrass, and so much more.

850-476-1932 info@olivebaptist.org www.olivebaptist.org/christmas

Autism Pensacola - Bowling with Santa

@ Cordova Lanes

2111 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504

Bowling with Santa (Ages 12+) on Saturday, December 10th from 2:00pm-4:00pm at Cordova Lanes. Registration required, please visit www. autismpensacola.org to register.

850-434-7171 www.autismpensacola.org

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

@ Downtown Pensacola Pensacola, FL

Enjoy floats, bands from Escambia County, and New Orleans. Also featuring the nationally re nowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of orga nizations from around the region. 5:15pm-8:00pm. www.coxpensacolachristmasparade.org

Christmas Parade Dash

Garden Street Pensacola, FL 32502

A Holiday tradition for the whole family. Run or walk the one-mile course then stay to enjoy the Pensacola Annual Christmas Parade. Costumes are strongly encouraged. www.coxpensacolachristmasparade.org/

Santa Drop

@ Flora Bama

17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507

Kick-off the Christmas season watching Santa skydive onto the beach and enjoy activities for kids in the Flora-Bama tent. 11am - 2pm. 850-492-0611 www.florabama.com/annual-events

Beulah Bash

@ Escambia County Equestrian Center

7750 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL

Join us for our annual Beulah Bash hosted by Marcus Pointe Baptist Church-Beulah. 9am-3pm. We will have craft vendors, food trucks, a judged car show, free kids craft, inflatables, and more. www.pensacolachurch.org/beulah

HoHo Hustle

3012 E Cervantes Street Pensacola, FL 32503

This FUN Holiday 5k is for the entire family. Bring the kids and hustle along, drink hot chocolate and experience holiday cheer. Party: A fun Holiday themed party for the whole family to enjoy after the race! Delicious Christmas-y treats & hot chocolate, pictures with Santa. 8:00am www.runpensacola.com/event/ho-ho-hustle/

Candlelight Night 2022

@ Alyssa’s, The Refinery & Alyssa’s Etc. 4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571

We transform the store into a magical “Christmas Village” by shopping only by Christmas lights, candle lights, and lamps with all the overhead lights turned off. We charge $5 or 10 canned goods. 6pm-8pm 850-994-9114 www.shopalyssas.com

December 10-11, 17-18

Christmas Zoobile

ad on page 3

@ Gulf Breeze Zoo

5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Christmas ZOObilee includes winter-themed bounce stations, visits from Santa, live music and entertainment, a Candy Cane Market full of gifts,

sights, smells, and tastes of the season, including unique gifts from local artists and delicious holiday treats. 10am-4pm.

850-932-2229 info@gulfbreezezoo.org www.gbzoo.com

December 11

Holidays at the House 2022

@ Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida

5200 Bayou Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32503

Bring your festive spirit to our holiday market and brunch provided by The Hive Foundation, all benefiting the families of Ronald McDonald House. The event will feature photos with Santa, market vendors, door prizes, live music, and more!

850-477-2273 www.rmhcnwfl.harnessgiving.org/ events/81

Choral Society of Pensacola’s Holiday Sing-Along

@ Rex Theatre

18 North Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32502

An hour of familiar carols and songs with refresh ments, led by the Choral Society ensemble. 5:00pm

850-484-1806 www.choralsocietyofpensacola.org

Snowflake Luncheon and Holiday Shopping Spree/Silent Auction

@ Cokesbury Church-Asbury Place

750 College Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504

Cokesbury Women United presents a Snowflake Luncheon and Holiday Shopping Spree/Silent Auction. 12pm-2pm. Tickets are available in the office or get tickets in the Atrium on Sunday, Nov

20, 27, and Dec 4th. Email beedecarol@gmail.com for more information.

850-476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

A Pine Terrace Christmas

@ Pine Terrace Baptist Church

6212 Pine Blossom Road Milton, FL 32570

An evening of Christmas music for the whole family. 850-623-3954 www.ptbc.org

December 11-19 or December 18-22

National Flight Academy Christmas Break Deployment

@ National Flight Academy

1 Fetterman Way NAS Pensacola, FL 32508

National Flight Academy is offering Deployment for rising 7th - 12th graders this December. 6 days/5 nights. For more information contact Stephanie Pugh, Client Relations Director at National Flight Acadmey 850-458-7836 spugh@nationalflightacademy.com www.NationalFlightAcademy.com

December 12-13

Christmas at The College Concert

@ Pensacola State College-Ashmore Auditorium Pensacola, FL 32504

Join the Pensacola Civic Band at the Ashmore Auditorium and celebrate the season through music. 7:30pm www.pensacolacivicband.org/

December 14 & 17

Christmas Cabaret at the Boulevard

@ Emerald Coast Theatre Company

560 Grand Blvd (Ste 200) Miramar Beach, FL 32550 Mix, mingle and enjoy live musical selections

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

performed by our talented actors. Enjoy classic holiday songs and join in some carols as well. Like a mug of hot cocoa, this limited run event will warm your heart and get you in the holiday spirit!

December 14-7:30pm, December 17, 2:30pm 850-684-0323 www.emeraldcoasttheater.org

December 16

Story Tyme with Grandma

Jenkins - A Loud Winter’s Nap/Santa is Coming to Florida ad on page 7

@ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Join Grandma Jenkins at 11:00am for holiday stories and cookies. Free public reading program. December 2: A Loud Winter’s Nap and December 16: Santa Claus is Coming to Florida 850-595-5985, 850-595-1559 wdavis4@uwf.edu www.historicpensacola.org

Kids in the kitchen - Christmas Theme

@ Ever’man Educational Center 327 W Garden Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Bring your family and friends to Evermans Garden Street Education Center for a FREE Christmas themed “kids in the kitchen” with Quintessential Wellness! 12pm-1pm. Kiddos can enjoy making their own Holiday themed food. www.everman.org/

Gallery Night - Ugly Sweater Day

@ Palafox street between Garden & Main Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us from 5:00pm - 9:00pm, we will feature artists, music, twinkling lights and more! Gallery Night is a free, public event for all ages. www.gallerynightpensacola.org

December 16-17

Christmas Lights Drive-Thru

@ Campus Church on the campus of Pensacola Christian College 250 Brent Lane Pensacola, FL 32503

Bring your family and friends to see the over 350,000 Christmas lights on the campus of Pensacola Christian College. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and Christmas music as you reflect on the true reason for Christmas—the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ, is come! We will also be receiving non-perishable food items for our local Ronald McDonald House to encourage families facing difficult times. 6pm - 9pm. www.facebook.com/events/campus-church/christmaslights-drive-thru-food-drive/929014784719903/

December 16-18

Ballet Pensacola Presents:

The Nutcracker

@ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Experience the magic of the beloved holiday clas sic, The Nutcracker! Tickets available online. 850-432-9546 www.balletpensacola.org

December 17

Make it to the Line Run or Walk

@ Flora Bama

17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507

Let’s all “Make it to the Line” just in time for Christmas! Run, jog, walk to the line at our 4-Mile Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run. Race will benefit the Secret Santa program, helping local families in need.

850-492-0611 www.florabama.com/annual-events

Winter Wonder Ride

@ Wahoos Stadium

351 W Cedar Street Pensacola, FL 32502

A scenic ride from Museum Plaza to downtown Pensacola. Post ride music, games, and food. Proceeds purchase new bikes and helmets for needy children. 850-485-1889 www.onbikespensacola.org

White Tie Rock EnsembleA White Tie Christmas

@ Pensacola Bay Center

201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502

A White Tie Christmas featuring the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra! Kick off the holiday sea son with a family friendly holiday tribute concert featuring the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Springsteen, McCartney, the Eagles and other holiday classics. 850-432-0800 www.pensacolabaycenter.com

Sweet Treats with Mrs. Claus

@ OWA

1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535

Join the world’s most cheerful hostess for a joyful celebration full of holiday magic! On Saturday, December 17, Mrs. Claus returns to OWA with her top elf assistant JJ to celebrate beloved holiday traditions. Come sing along to festive song and dance numbers sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit! Hours and dates for all activities are subject to change. 251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

December 18

Cordova Lanes Child-Adult Holiday Doubles Tournament

ad on page 27

@ Cordova Lanes 2111 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504

This tournament is for one child (5-18) and one adult (19 and up). Entry fee is $16 per team. Two shifts to choose from, 12pm and 2:30pm.Call or visit the website for registration information, handicap info and additional details. Ask about our Saturday Youth League for ages 5 - 18. 850-477-2300 info@cordovalanes.com www.cordovalanes.com

Breakfast in Bethlehem

@ Pine Terrace Baptist Church 6212 Pine Blossom Road Milton, FL 32570

See the Christmas story through the Wise Men, Shepherd, Innkeeper and Mary and Joseph. Bring canned goods for your taxes & entry. Ages 3 years - 5th grade. 9am-11:15am. 850-623-3954 www.ptbc.org

December 21

Play Pensacola Fishing / Archery Day Camp

@ Bayview Community Resource Center 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL

Participants will spend the day fishing, learning about ethical angling and sharpening their shooting skills at city owned parks and greenspaces. Camp runs for 8 am - 4 pm for children ages 8-16. Regis tration online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com. 850-436-5692 www.playpensacola.com

December 21-23 & 27-30

Holiday Camp at Pensacola Mess Hall

@ Pensacola Mess Hall

418 E Wright Street Pensacola, FL 32501 Register your scientists, (Grades 1st - 6th), for

Science Sampler Camps! Game design, mineral ogy, rocket engineering & more. Half-day camp: 9am - 12:30pm. (Extended add-on until 4pm). Pre-registration is required. 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org

December 21-23, 28-30 and January 3-4

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Woodland Heights Resource Center

111 Berkley Street Pensacola, FL 32503

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration in person or online at webtrac.cityofpensacoola.com.

850-435-1750 tthomas@cityofpenscola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ E.S. Cobb Resource Center

601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, FL 32503

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration in person or online at webtrac.cityofpensacola.com.

850-436-5192 rsmith@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Fricker Resource Center

900 North F Street Pensacola, FL 32501

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration in person or online at webtrac.cityofpensacoola.com.

850-436-5195 mmims@cityofpensacola.com www. playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Gull Point Resource Center

7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, FL 32504

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration in person or online at webtrac.cityofpensacoola.com.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

December 23

Tidings of Comfort & Joy Concert

@ First United Methodist Church

6 E Wright Street Pensacola, FL 32501

WUWF invites you to the annual Tidings of Comfort & Joy concert. 6:00pm and 8:00pm performance. Cost: $15 per person. Tickets available online. www.wuwf.org/tidings-of-comfort-joy

December 24

Lessons & Carols

Christmas Eve Celebration ad on page 29

@ McIlwain Presbyterian Church

1220 East Blount Street Pensacola, FL 32503

McIlwain Presbyterian Church invites you to

Lessons & Carols, a Christmas Eve Celebra tion, in the Sanctuary at 6:00pm on Christmas Eve.

850-438-5449 info@mcilwainchurch.org www.mcilwain.org

December 26

Holiday Dreams , A Spectacular Holiday Cirque

@ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Holiday Dreams , A Spectacular Holiday Cirque! is a ground-breaking holiday show that incorporates acrobats, aerialists, comedians, dare devils and award-winning specialty acts performing incredible feats using the latest in visual and technological “magic” such as holograms, projection mapping and interactive lasers. 7:00pm 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com/

December 31 Ring in the Noon Year at Laguna’s ad on page 19

@ Laguna’s

460 Pensacola Beach Boulevard Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Families are invited to come out and ring in the Noon Year at Laguna’s! This familyfriendly event will take place 11am-3pm. 3-hour park pass wrist bands are only $34.99 per person! Enjoy park activities along with live music, a Beach Ball Drop and a Family Toast.

850-677-3905 www.LagunasPB.com

LuLu’s Noon Year’s Eve Celebration!

ad on page 9

@ Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Noon Year’s is a FREE family event for all ages. Kid friendly activities begin at 10:00am with a beach ball drop at NOON! See you there! 251-967-LULU (5858) www.lulusfunfoodmusic.com/

Kids Confetti Drop

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

If your little ones are too young to stay up until midnight, join us at The Wharf for our annual Kids Confetti Drop, featuring tons of family friendly activities plus an early daytime countdown to the new year. Event time is 10 am – 2 pm. Confetti drop at noon! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Reelin’ In the New YearNYE Street Party

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road

Orange Beach, AL 36561 Reel in the new year with us at The Wharf for our New Year’s Eve Street Party. Live bands, family friendly and adult-centered fun all rounding off

at midnight with our marlin drop and fireworks. Resolutions are for the start of the month. Give yourself one last excuse to let loose! Admission is free. 5pm-Midnight 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Pensacola Symphony Presents:

Celebrate the New Year!

@ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Celebrate the New Year! The bright lights of Broad way come to the Saenger stage as we enjoy musi cal theatre’s most memorable melodies. 7:00pm 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display

Pensacola Beach Pensacola, FL 32502

Keep your eyes focused on the Pensacola Beach skies this New Year’s Eve for a free firework dis play along the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk.

January 1

Polar Bear Dip

@ Flora Bama

17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Wear a crazy costume, bring the whole family and take a New Year plunge into the Gulf of Mexico! No registration is required. Event is from 12 - 3pm. 850-492-0611 www.florabama.com/annual-events

Polar Bear Plunge

@ Paradise Bar & Grill

21 Via De Luna Drive Pensacola, FL 32502

Ring in 2023 with our Polar Bear Plunge! Head to Pensacola Beach at 2 p.m. and plunge into the Santa Rosa Sound at the annual Polar Bear Plunge. pensacolabeachchamber.com/polar-bear-plunge/

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

FamilyCalendar

Thursday December 1

Anastasia the National Broadway Tour

7:30 PM Mattie Kelly Arts Center at NWF State Col lege, 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL, 32578 Journey to the past in this dazzling transport from the Russian Empire to 1920s Paris! 7:30pm www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

Friday December 2

2022 Luminary Service

6:00 PM Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel & Memorial Park, 3351 Scenic Hwy Pensacola, FL You and your family are invited to join us for a special holiday event. 850-432-7805

Ice Flyers

Teddy Bear Toss

7:05 PM 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Fans are encouraged to bring teddy bears and other stuffed animals to the game and throw them on the ice when the Ice Flyers score their first goal. www.iceflyers.com

The University of West Florida presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical

7:30 PM UWF Theatre, 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL, 32514 www.uwf.edu/cassh/departments/theatre/box-office/ current-season/

Pensacola Habitat FORE! Humanity Golf Tournament

Scenic Hills Country Club, 8891 Burning Tree Rd Pensacola, FL, 32514 www.golfforhomes.org/

Shining Light Players Present

“To This End of Heaven”

The REX Theatre, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.shininglightplayers.com/

Saturday December 3

5th Annual Women’s Empowerment Brunch

9:30 AM South Market - Pensacola, 905 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL Join us Cocktails and Brunch at the beautiful new South Market Restaurant in Downtown Pensacola! To participate in the gift exchange, please bring a wrapped gift between $15-$20. To rsvp call or text 813-480-4880.

Gonzalez St. Shareway Day

10:00 AM Cordova Square, 1101 N. 12th Ave. Pensacola, FL Bike Pensacola hosts a one-day, sixhour demonstration of the proposed Gonzalez Street Shareway, a complete street shared among all users but with features to particularly encourage cyclists and pedestrians. There will be music, activities and fun along the route at parks, businesses and homes. www.bikepensacola.org

10th

Annual USO Runway 5k

10:00 AM Pensacola International Airport, 2430 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for a 5k on the RUNWAY at Pensacola International Airport. Proceeds benefit the USO of Northwest Florida. www.runway5k.com

It’s a Wonderful Night: An Original Jukebox Musical

7:00 PM Pensacola State College Ashmore Auditorium, Pensacola, FL Join us one night only for our Original Holiday musical at the PSC Ashmore Auditorium www.purplepass.com/embed.php

Ice Flyers - Big Brothers Big Sisters Night

7:05 PM 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join the Pensacola Ice Flyers in raising awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida on Big Broth ers Big Sisters Night. www.iceflyers.com

The University of W Florida presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical 7:30 PM UWF Theatre, 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL, 32514 www.uwf.edu/cassh/departments/theatre/box-office/ current-season/

Shining Light Players Present “To This End of Heaven” Details on December 2.

Sunday December 4

Free Yoga in the Park 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Free one-hour yoga classes will be held in Bayview Park or Community Maritime Park on the first Sunday of each month throughout 2022 at 9:30 a.m. www.cityofpensacola.com

The University of West Florida presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical 2:30 PM Details on December 3.

Symphonic Band Concert 7:30 PM UWF Theatre, 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL, 32514 www.uwf.edu/cassh/departments/theatre/box-office/ current-season/

Thursday December 8

An Evening with Sean of the South 7:00 PM Imogene Theatre, 6866 Caroline St Milton, FL, 32570 Join us for an evening of storytelling and music with Sean for belly laughs and good ole’ Southern hospitality. The event’s proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. www.e-activist.com/page/111712/event/1

Friday December 9

Sea Turtle Soiree

5:00 PM 8740 Gulf Blvd. Navarre, FL, 32566 NBSTCC’s Sea Turtle Soirée is a fun and exciting charity fund raising event that will be held on Dec. 9th 2022, at the St. Francis of Assisi Event Hall. This will be the third time the NBSTCC has hosted an evening style event offering good eats, drinks and charitable giving. www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org/soiree-2022

The University of W Florida presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical 7:30 PM Details on December 3.

Saturday December 10

84th Annual Camellia Show & Plant Sales

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Perfor mance Studio, 1000 College Blvd, Bldg 23 Pensacola, FL, 32502 Over 200 plants will be present for sale and dozens of different Camellia Species. 9am-4pm

Preschool Art and Story Time (Free)

10:00 AM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join the Pensacola Mu seum of Art alongside the West Florida Public Library to engage your preschooler in story time and crafts.

Ages 2-5 and a parent or guardian/caregiver. Capacity is limited to 10 pairs, pre-registration is required. . 850-432-6247 www.pensacolamuseum.org

Mutts & Mimosas

11:00 AM Union Public House Pensacola, 309 S Reus St Pensacola, FL, 32502 This fun Christmas paw painting event will be one to remember. Let your pup lay the foundation with their paws on the canvas and you create a PAWsterpiece to keep for every holiday season to come!

www.wolfgangparkandbrews.com/event-details/ mutts-mimosas-dec-22

Author Reading at PCM: Jacqueline Bordeaux, Ryan Caver, & Oliver

11:00 AM Pensacola Children’s Museum, 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 We are welcom ing local children’s authors to read their books at the Pensacola Children’s Museum. Join the authors of Litter, Litter, Please Come Here on Saturday, December 10 to learn how we can keep our beaches beautiful www.historicpensacola.org

Pensacola Mess Hall

- Curiosity Days

1:00 PM Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Each month we dive deeper into different scientific topics during Curiosity Days. Special facilitated stations aligned with the topics are available for exploration from 1 PM –4 PM. Programs are included with admission. 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/

The University of West Florida presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical 7:30 PM UWF Theatre, 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL, 32514

www.uwf.edu/cassh/departments/theatre/box-office/ current-season/

Sunday December 11

The University of West Florida presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical 2:30 PM UWF Theatre, 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL, 32514

www.uwf.edu/cassh/departments/theatre/box-office/ current-season/

Wednesday December 14

After School Improv Workshop

The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N. DeVilliers St Pensacola, FL Improv games and exercises will help you pull new ideas from thin air and teach you the power of being in the moment and listening. This workshop is great for beginners and you don’t need any previous experience, just show up and have fun! 9:00am-ages 9-12, 1:00pm- ages 11-13 and 2:30pm, 4:30pm -Ages 14-18 www.eventbrite.com/e/459531339607

Friday December 16

Ice Flyers - Peanuts Night

7:05 PM 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 What goes better together than the holiday season, Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Woodstock and the rest of the Peanuts crew? www.iceflyers.com

Saturday December 17

2022 Winter Wonder Ride

11:00 AM Blue Wahoo Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Winter Wonder Ride is a family-friendly slow ride through downtown Pensacola

that serves a dual purpose of raising funds to provide bicycles and helmets free of charge for local kids. www.eventbrite.com/e/7th-annual-winter-wonderride-registration-442929773877

Improv Comedy night

7:00 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N. DeVilliers St Pensacola, FL If you’re looking for a fun comedy show your family can go to, this show is great for all ages! This is an improv show like Whose Line Is It Anyways, a short for improv show created on the spot.

www.eventbrite.com/e/459574929987

Sunday December 18

Free Pilates in the Park

10:30 AM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 The class is free, but you will need to BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat) and any other accessories you would like to use. www.cityofpensacola.com

Tuesday December 20

Powerful Women Monthly Rethink Meeting

8:30 AM Gulf Coast Kid’s House, 3401 N 12th Ave Pensacola, FL Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast (PWGC) is back with a brand-new, redesigned inperson meeting, and this is your invitation to join us. Attendance is limited and you must register to attend.

Friday December 23

Ice Flyers - Christmas 7:05 PM 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join the Ice Flyers on Friday, December 23 at 7:05 p.m.

for An Ice Flyers Christmas! The night will include holiday themed games, promotions, and fun for the whole family. www.iceflyers.com

Tuesday December 27

Ice Flyers - Canine Companions Night

7:05 PM 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501

This night will be focused on the Canine Companions organization with all of Ranger’s Canine Companion pals in attendance. www.iceflyers.com

Friday December 30

Ice Flyers - Military Appreciation Night

7:05 PM 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 www.iceflyers.com

Saturday January 7

Pensacola Beach Run Half Marathon

7:30 AM Casino Beach, Pensacola, FL www.pensacolarun ners.com/pra-events/ pbrhalf1052

Saturday January 14

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra presents Beethoven & Blue Jeans

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Pl Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for this annual celebration of

Beethoven, anchored by the composer’s Seventh Symphony.

www.pensacolasymphony.com

Friday January 20

Pensacola Opera presents La Bohème

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Pl Pensacola, FL, 32502 From Musetta’s famous waltz, “Quando m’en vo,” to the rousing second act outside the Café Momus—featuring our wonderful Pensacola Opera Chorus—this beloved work features some of opera’s most hummable melodies.

www.pensacolaopera.com

Pensacola Opera - Meet The Artists Reception

(Tickets: $50 (20% discount with a subscription!))

10:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Pl Pensacola, FL, 32502 Directly after opening night, join us in the Saenger event room for a special reception including a meal, drinks, desserts, and a chance to mix and mingle with the stars of the show!

www.pensacolaopera.com

Saturday January 21

The Bremen Town Musicians

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM, Downtown Branch Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set to music of Verdi, Offenbach, and more, The Bremen Town Musicians celebrates the idea that friendship, cooperation, and respect for others is far better than facing problems alone. This interactive, 40-minute production is sung in English and features full sets, costumes, four pro fessional opera singers, and a pianist.

www.pensacolaopera.com/event/the-bremen-townmusicians-mainbranch/

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

Sunday January 22

Pensacola Opera presents La Bohème

2:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Pl Pensacola, FL, 32502 From Musetta’s famous waltz, “Quando m’en vo,” to the rousing second act outside the Café Momus—featuring our wonderful Pensacola Opera Chorus—this beloved work features some of opera’s most hummable melodies. www.pensacolaopera.com

Every Tuesday

Story Sprouts @Ever’man Co-op (Free) 10:00 AM Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe, 315 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Children ages 3-5 are invited to do arts & crafts, make a snack and have story time. Register at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/story-sprouts-tickets-36630082563 www.everman.org

Every third Wednesday

Table Talks at the Trust

12:00 PM Voices of Pensacola Multicultural, 117 E. Government Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Program is free--just bring your lunch and enjoy a casual oppor tunity to learn about a variety of topics! www.historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/calendarof-events

Every third Thursday

What’s Cooking with Baptist 12:00 PM Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe, 315 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502

Every other Friday

Art Academy for Autism

- Ages 16+ 4:00 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 16+ -Alternating Fridays from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. www.pensacolamuseum.org

Every Saturday

Palafox Market

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more. www.palafoxmarket.com

Children’s Storytime in the Lighthouse

11:00 AM Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe, 110 E. Intendencia St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us every Saturday at 11 AM for our Children’s Storytime in the Lighthouse at Bodacious Bookstore & Cafe. We look forward to reading some lovely stories with you and your little ones. www.bodaciousbookstore.com/cafe/

Every first Saturday

Body, Mind, Spirit Market

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe, 315 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Local vendors, artisans, holistic practitioners, speakers,

children’s activities and more.This is an inside and outside event for the entire family www.everman.org

Every first and third Saturday

Hwy 87 Market

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Sand Dollar Plaza, 1900 Hwy 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 Enjoy a wide variety of booths, offering food items, art, decor, and so much more. 850-368-9500 www.facebook.com/sanddollarsaturdays

Every other Saturday

Art Academy for Autism

Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 5-9-Alternating Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Ages 10-15-Alternating Saturdays from 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. www.pensacolamuseum.org

Every Sunday

Sunday Market on Palafox

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, N Palafox St between Chase and Gregory Streets Pensacola, FL, 32502 Outdoor & Fresh Air Shopping. Local artists, crafters, makers, cottage bakers and farmers in Downtown Pensacola. www.facebook.com/palafoxmarkets

Please send your calendar events to lynn@greater pensacolaparents.com.

Is It Okay to Hide Money

From My Spouse?

Q. After hearing you talk about financial infidelity, I have to admit that I hide money from my husband. I have been setting aside money for emergencies without his knowledge. He is not terrible with money, but he always seems to find something to spend it on. Before I started doing this, we never managed to save much money at all. But now I feel like I have been doing something wrong. What should I do?

A I believe in saving up for emergen cies. I mean, I’m the guy who tells people to have three to six months of expenses saved in an emergency fund, right? But deception is never a positive thing in a relationship—es pecially a mar riage. You need to talk to your hus band about this.

I know it won’t be easy for you, so you have to make sure you tell him in the right way. Playing the blame game won’t help. Basically, you’ve been deceiving him about this. Sure, it sounds like he has been im