Greater Pensacola Parents November 2018 by KeepSharing

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.

For more health information, follow us on Twitter @HealthyEscambia

November2018

Volume 3 Number 8

Columns

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Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Thanksgiving Games

Holiday-themed games to keep the family interacting all day.

Holiday Happenings

Parades, lights, musicals and more...to brighten your season.

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates, P.A.

Advice for Breastfeeding Moms New mothers have many concerns about caring for their newborn child. The decision to breast feed versus formula feed weighs heavily on many women. Commercial formulas do provide the fluid and nutrients for optimal growth and development. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics, pediatric nurse practitioners and pediatricians recommend breastfeeding for twelve months. During the first six months of life breast milk provides everything a baby needs to grow. The only recommended supplement is daily Vitamin D drops given orally to the infant. Studies have shown it is a necessary nutrient not already available in mother’s milk. Mother and baby benefit from breastfeeding. Mother’s milk helps protect the infant from infection that can affect the ears, lungs or digestive tract. For the post partum mother nursing her infant can help decrease the bleeding from the uterus after giving birth. When nursing continues longer than six months many women realize greater weight loss. Scientific data also shows a lower chance of developing breast, ovarian or uterine cancer in mothers who breastfeed their babies. The body produces milk in response to baby’s demand. By the baby’s age of 4 weeks

the healthy mother produces about 3 cups of milk a day. There are times when breastfeeding moms can encounter problems producing enough milk. If she is ill, tired, under a lot of stress or smokes cigarettes her milk supply may decrease. Not breastfeeding the baby often enough during the day will also decrease the supply, especially in the early weeks and months after birth. If any of these problems arise it is advisable to speak with your doctor or a lactation consultant. Breastfeeding starts right after delivery even though this early breast milk called “colostrum” is not produced in great quantities. It is concentrated: very rich in the nutrients needed by the newborn. The amount and type of milk produced changes over the next few days, increasing in availability, as the baby learns how to latch on the nipple and nurse. By day 3-4 of life mother’s milk becomes fully available to baby. In order to produce an adequate supply of milk mothers are advised to eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated. Foods with calcium and vitamin D are especially important for the nursing mother. Having water or another beverage to drink while nursing the baby can help keep mother hydrated. It is also important to avoid certain foods: 1) Swordfish or king mackerel due to Mercury in the meat, 2)

Caffeine can create fussy babies or create problems sleeping, 3) Alcohol passes through breast milk as well. It takes about 2 hours for 1 drink to pass through the body. It is advised that women wait 2 hours after having a drink to breastfeed. Most breastfeeding mothers are concerned they can’t tell if the baby is getting enough milk. If by day 4 infant is having at least 6 wet diapers and 4 or more yellow and seedy bowel movements, baby is getting enough milk. However, taking your baby to your nurse practitioner or pediatrician for a weight check is the most accurate way to know all is well. That visit can be a great time to review any questions or concerns you may have about how your baby is growing. Tavi Slevinski, Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, has lived in Pensacola, Florida for over 35 years. She has been an advanced nurse practitioner with Pediatric Associates for over 23 years. Her undergraduate studies in nursing were completed at the University of Florida. She obtained her advanced nursing practice degree initially as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner from the University of South Alabama. Miss Tavi, as her patients have come to know her, realized she enjoyed the entire pediatric age spectrum and obtained her Post Masters degree in general pediatrics from the University of South Alabama. Although she cherishes her title as Miss Tavi, her favorite role and title is that of “Gigi” to her grandchildren.

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St. Paul Students Learn Violin Techniques

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Autauga County Schools

Third-graders at St. Paul Catholic School have the wonderful opportunity to learn how to play the violin. Each student has a violin to use for the year. This is the second year of teaching the violin at the third-grade level. Music teacher Ian Werth used the Quaver curriculum at the beginning of class and then took those concepts and transferred them to the violin. Students have had amazing progress already. Each student has been able to hold the violin properly, identify and play the four separate strings, G, D, A, and E, and use a proper pizzicato method to pluck the strings.

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Take Stock in Children Announces New Students Selected for Scholarship Program

Blessed Star Prepares For Hurricane Michael

Blessed Star Montessori School students worked together to put away the playground equipment that could possibly blow around due to the hurricane and to also break down the trampoline. The students initially thought it would take a long time to finish and were surprised how quickly they finished up. We reminded them about how sometimes it can be very beneficial to work together to accomplish a task. We were very proud of their teamwork!

Take Stock in Children recently introduced 25 new scholarship recipients at the annual Take Stock Kickoff Dinner. There are now a total of 126 students in grades 7-12 in Escambia County’s program. Students will receive a college scholarship upon graduation from high school as long as they maintain good grades, attendance and citizenship, remain crime- and drug-free, and meet weekly with a volunteer community mentor. Take Stock in Children is a statewide non-profit organization operating locally under the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation. Take Stock provides “scholarships, mentors and hope” to deserving young people selected through a needbased application process through the public middle schools at the end of their 6thgrade year. Scholarship donations from local foundations, organizations, businesses and individuals are matched dollar-for-dollar when scholarships are purchased from Florida Prepaid College Foundation each year and are held until students successfully graduate from high school. The newly selected students include: from Jim Bailey Middle School – Henry Addy, Nathan Barberi, Luke Campbell, Brogan Dougherty, Nyla Hunter-Smith, Keyonte Smith and Jayla Stallworth; from Brown Barge Middle – Ralynn Durant, Jessica Hatton and Bailey Poston; from Ernest Ward Middle – Allyson Jones, Dequan Shabazz and Brier Thompson; from Ferry Pass Middle – Jaden Allen, Ariyanna Cunningham, Nolan Howie and Chaeli Lackey; from Ransom Middle – Kaylee Emmons, Bobbie-Sue Jarrell, Quentin Lewis-Wright and Malachi Williams; and from Workman Middle – Nancy Mendez-Rostro and Chancellor Washington. For more information about the Take Stock in Children scholarship program in Escambia County, contact Sally Lee, 469-5458 or slee@escambia.k12.fl.us. In Santa Rosa County, contact Angie Brown, 712-2264, or brownab@santarosa.k12.fl.us. Front row from left, Chancellor Washington, Brier Thompson, Jayla Stallworth, Luke Campbell and Malachi Williams; second row, Bailey Poston, Chaeli Lackey, Quentin Lewis-Wright, Allyson Jones, Nancy Mendez-Rostro and Jessica Hatton; third row, Brogan Dougherty, Henry Addy, Arianna Cunningthom, Jaden Allen and Chancellor Washington; and back row, Kaylee Emmons, Dequan Shabazz, Ralynn Durant and Bobbie-Sue Jarrell. Not Pictured: Nathan Barberi, Nyla Hunter-Smith and Keyonte Smith.

Please email news and photos to editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com by the 12th of each month! Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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School Bus Trespass Legislation Proves Important Safety Measure in County and State

During the 2018 legislative session, State Representative Frank White, District 2, and Escambia County School District Superintendent Malcolm Thomas worked together to change the law to better protect children and school employees throughout the state. Both White and Thomas recognize the significance of the issues we face as a state regarding school safety and the importance of implementing sound, effective policy solutions that make our schools safer. Prior to the 2018 legislative session, Superintendent Thomas expressed his concern over the issue of trespassing on school buses. Because Florida statute did not recognize a bus as school property, school officials and law enforcement were unable to penalize people who unlawfully board a school bus the way they can people who trespass on school grounds. “As representative, my priority is the safety and welfare of the citizens of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties,” said White. “After learning about the bus trespass problem from Superintendent Thomas, I made it a priority to close the loophole in the law that prevented law enforcement from adequately protecting our stu-dents and school employees.” Representative White was able to add language to a 2018 education bill (HB 495) that defines a school bus as “school property,” which makes trespassing on school buses equivalent to trespassing on school grounds—freeing up school districts and law enforcement to take immediate action in trespass incidents on school buses. “This is important language, which further enhances the safety of our students while in our care. Whether on a school bus or on school grounds, the safety and security should be the same,” said Superintendent Thomas. “Entering a school bus unlawfully will have the same ramifications as trespassing on school grounds. It will be considered a crime.” School districts statewide have benefited, and will continue to benefit, from the new trespass policy that originated in Escambia County.

Little Flower Pre-K Learns About Daniel

Miss Laurel’s pre-K class at Little Flower Catholic School read about Daniel in the Lion’s Den.The students had so much fun making their own lions—using a fork for the mane. Hands-on activities are the best!

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Autauga County Schools

Trinitas Students Visit WEAR-TV Meteorologist

St. Paul Starts School Chess Club

Chess Club is in its inaugural year at St. Paul Catholic School! The club, which meets weekly, has had a great turnout of about 35 students, ranging from first grade to eighth. Right now the students are focusing on mini games using just one or two types of pieces so they can learn how each piece moves.

The 8th-grade Physical Science class at Trinitas Christian School had a wonderful opportunity to visit WEAR Channel 3 News with meteorologist Kaitlin Wright. She shared how meteorologists predict weather, how tornadoes and hurricanes form, and how radar detects wind speed. Students practiced their broadcasting skills standing in front of the green screen. This proved to be a challenge in coordination, but the students enjoyed it immensely! Eager to learn about the weather, students were encouraged to work hard in science and math as perhaps someday, they too, may seek to become a meteorologist. Wright was a delight and the students were inspired. Thank you, WEAR, and Ms. Wright for your hospitality and for helping Trinitas students gain a glimpse of what you do every day.

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YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WALK-IN CLINIC

Can’t get in to see your doctor? WE TAKE WALK-INS!

The Polar Express will screen at 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday beginning Saturday, November 24 through Sunday, December 23. Children will receive free hot cocoa and a cookie.

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Tickets are $7 and advanced tickets are available in person at the ticket counter.

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OPEN 9–5 DAILY ON NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA • FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION

850- 453-2389 • 800-327-5002 • NavalAviationMuseum.org • 1750 Radford Blvd. • Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL 32508 Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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“CASITA,” CARLOS ROLÓN, MULTIMEDIA INSTALLATION, 2018

STONE’S THROW

St. John Offers Makerspace and STEM Club

St. John School second-grade teacher Dana Donahoo coordinates the Makerspace and STEM Club for 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade. Students involved in the club have the opportunity to learn and experience a variety of topics, with the help of three senior boys from the International Baccalaureate program who are assisting Donahoo as part of their CAS Program (Creativity, Action, Service). Most recently, students looked at slides of plant and animal cells, as well as snake and human blood.

ON BORDERS, BOUNDARIES, AND THE BEYOND

SEPT 18 – JAN 11 407 S. JEFFERSON ST. PENSACOLA, FL 32502 850.432.6247 pensacolamuseum.org

ON VIEW IN THE HENDERSON THORNTON, KUGELMAN FAMILY, AND STAIRWELL GALLERIES, CHARLES W. LAMAR SR. ASSEMBLY ROOM

MUSEUM HOURS: TUES – THURS 10AM to 5PM FRI – SAT 10AM to 7PM / SUN 12PM to 4PM

BTW Visits Pensacola MESS Hall

A group of Booker T. Washington High School students recently traveled downtown to Pensacola’s MESS Hall, a hands-on learning world. MESS stands for Math, Engineering, Science and Stuff. The students were there to have fun, but all fun with a purpose. This was a recon trip to look for ideas they could borrow for the Wiildcats’ Innovation Center, led by Alisha Wilson, an innovation specialist/librarian. The MESS Hall staff and their volunteers can select from a smorgasbord of MESS kits to fit the age and interests of the kids who visit and many activities can be tweaked to aim for different skill levels.

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www.capstoneacademy.org

Free ESE Pre-Kindergarten Pediatric therapies Non-profit public Charter Schools Low Student- Teacher ratio Child care vouchers accepted

4901 West Fairfield Drive Pensacola, FL 32506 Phone: (850) 458-7735

5308 Stewart Street Milton, FL 32570 Phone: (850) 626-3091

ENROLL TODAY! 15

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Autauga County Schools

Roy Hyatt Environmental Receives IMPACT100 Grant

East Hill Students Focus on STEM

Once a week, East Hill Christian School elementary students attend a special STEM class focusing on the topics of science, technology, engineering and math. Using Ozobots, students are able to use their creativity and artistic expression while developing logical reasoning and levels of coding concepts. This, along with coding lessons in weekly computer class, is helping students to learn about and to put into practice the practical uses of modern technology.

The Escambia County Public Schools Foundation, in partnership with the Roy Hyatt Environmental Center, was honored to be the recipient of one of the 2018 IMPACT100 grants in the amount of $100,300. The Roy Hyatt Environmental Center will use this grant money to fund the “Swim, Soar and Fly into Science” grant. These funds will help renovate an existing classroom into a “beach” classroom, purchase an inflatable portable planetarium, and renovate an existing greenhouse into a butterfly house. The beach classroom will allow students to submerge into an undersea world learning about habitats along the Gulf Coast while meeting live crabs, sea urchins, lionfish and other marine specimens located in aquariums situated around the room and in tubs right in front of them. The students will also be able to enter the inflatable portable planetarium where they will blast off into space learning about the Milky Way galaxy, asteroids, the planets, the moon, the sun and more. As students fly into the greenhouse they will see butterflies as they glut and fly around. They will study characteristics and metamorphosis of insects and see caterpillars munching on just plants, eggs hiding under leaves, and chrysalis emerging into adult butterflies.

Open 4-9 p.m. Nov. 23-Dec. 9

Hop aboard for an authentic train ride through our snowy winter wonderland!

(Open Friday-Sunday)

Santa visit with free toy

Dec. 12-Dec. 24 (Open Nightly)

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1 million+ lights

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Purchase tickets online or at the railroad! WalesWest.com

Use promo code “PARENT” for a discount on online tickets! 251-232-2322 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill, AL 36576 Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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Escambia Westgate Opens New Sensory Playground

The Ascend Cares Foundation, a nonprofit organization funded and led by employees of Ascend Performance Materials, has announced the funding, installation and opening of a new sensory playground at Escambia Westgate School. Ascend Cares has partnered with Escambia Westgate for six years. The school is dedicated to teaching children with physical and intellectual disabilities from kindergarten to 12th grade. “This is the largest single Ascend Cares project in the history of the foundation. It is fitting that it relates to two of our focus areas: children and education,” said Rachell Gold, director of the Ascend Cares Foundation. “The purchase and installation of the new playground was funded by foundation donations and our company matching program.” Employees of Ascend Performance Materials’ Pensacola site worked as volunteers to dismantle the previous playground and prepare the site for the installation of the new sensory playground. “Our previous playground did not meet the needs of the majority of our students,” said Jobenna Sellers, principal at Escambia Westgate. “The new sensory playground is now fully accessible and will enhance our students’ functional and social development by providing increased exercise and outdoor activity.” The playground was designed to meet the needs of every student at Escambia Westgate. It has wheelchair-accessible swings, a sensory tunnel with cutouts and musical equipment. The previous playground at Escambia Westgate School was donated to another school in the community.

St. John Makes Applesauce

On September 26, St. John School’s 2nd-grade class made applesauce to celebrate the birthday of Johnny Appleseed! Students, with teacher Dana Donahoo, cut apples and processed them to become applesauce. They then got to try their creation. It was delicious!

Booker T. Washington High School Welcomes New Partner

In September, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at Booker T. Washington High School to mark the new partnership between Members First Credit Union and the BTWHS Marketing and Entrepreneurship Academy. The Academy operates the Cat Shack and a credit union branch on campus. It will now operate the newest branch location for Members First. It will serve Washington’s students, staff and educators. This connection is fitting when you learn that Members First started as a credit union for educators!

Redeemer Takes Cavern Field Trip

The 7th-grade earth science class from Redeemer Lutheran School spent an adventurous day exploring the caverns and trails at Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna. The cavern tour taught the history of the park, showed the minerals built up in the caverns, and fueled the students’ imaginations as they studied the one-of-a-kind formations hidden underground in their own back yard!

Gulf Breeze Middle Classes Donate Pet Food to North Carolina

Students in Mrs. Cornelius’s Gulf Breeze Middle School Language Arts classes donated pet food for the North Carolina animal shelters that were affected by Hurricane Florence. The owners of Saltwater Chick Designs in Navarre delivered the pet food and supplies to North Carolina in September. Students watched a video of a canine cave rescue and were also inspired by reading the novel Saint Louis Armstrong Beach, a story about a boy and his dog who survived Hurricane Katrina. The students wrote letters of encouragement to include with the donations. 17

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VIP Visits New Beulah Middle School

Senator Doug Broxson was invited to tour the new Beulah Middle School. Shown from left are Kevin Adams, Broxson, Jolene Milligan, Marietta Britt-McCaskill and Escambia County Schools Superintendent Malcolm Thomas.

East Hill Students Enjoy Animal Visit

East Hill Christian School’s student body enjoyed a visit from Animal Tales as a reward for doing so well in their fundraiser. Some animals that were a highlight of the visit were the snake and the wolf dog. The students always enjoy learning about the different animals that God created, and getting to see them up close.

ECSD Fine Arts Students Prepare for Fair Art Show

These Escambia County students are participating in the Inside Out Project - Pensacola. A special thanks to Pensacola Museum of Art for giving us space to create and the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival for awarding the grant.

NB Cook Performs Fall Play

“Heroes. They’re the kind of people who help all of us come to realize that biggest doesn’t necessarily mean best, that the most important things of life are inside things like feelings and wonder and love—and that the ultimate happiness is being able sometimes, somehow, to help our neighbor become a hero, too.” (Mister Fred Rogers) Thank you to all of the N.B. Cook Stars who’ve all worked together to make their cast mates “star heroes” and to the faculty, staff and volunteers who help all of our students shine! What a wonderful fall production, called Isle of Love and Hope. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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Creative Learning Academy Celebrates Johnny Appleseed

In honor of John Chapman, aka “Johnny Appleseed,” Mrs. Hyde’s first-grade class at Creative Learning Academy did a weeklong cross-curricular study which included a virtual apple orchard field trip, science activities, investigation of the apple life cycle, grafting, and cross pollination. The students celebrated Johnny Appleseed’s birthday by working together to make a delicious apple treat! They made a few special deliveries to share with others and spread kindness, which was a highlight when reflecting on the history of John Chapman. #WeAreCLA #BeCreative

PHS IB Students Receive Presidential Service Awards

Pensacola High School International Baccalaureate students have been working for a few years to raise money for backpackprojectusa and to raise awareness of child hunger—right here in Escambia County, and all over our state. Three of this year’s seniors were presented with medals and letters from the President of the United States as Presidential Service Award recipients! Congratulations go to Clint Hinrichs, Elizabeth Pollitt and Allison McGraugh. McGraugh and her father flew around the State for Flight for Pennies II and presented a check for $1,277 for this year’s Flight and another check for $805 for residual funds raised by Flight for Pennies I (McGraugh’s brother Scotty’s fundraiser held before his senior year).

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.

60 years of

EXCELLENCE PARENT INVOLVEMENT

COMMUNICATION

ACADEMIC RIGOR

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Quality Education for K4-12 since 1958

East Hill Christian School

ehcs.org I call 850.438.7746 to schedule a tour 19

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Blessed Star Gives Plickers a Try

The students at Blessed Star Montessori recently had a lesson on Christopher Columbus and at the end of the lesson the students did a short quiz using Plickers to test their knowledge. It didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long for the students to get the hang of how to manipulate their cards so that the teacher could scan their answer choice. They were excited about being able to see whether they had the correct answer right away on the screen. The students really enjoyed completing their quiz in a method other than the traditional pen and pencil quiz.

St. Paul Holds Annual Knighting Ceremony

St. Paul Catholic School held its annual Knighting Ceremony for middle school in September. Sixth-graders and new students were sorted into one of four houses: St. Michael the Archangel, St. Joseph, St. Thomas More and St. Stephen. The Knights of Columbus led a bagpipe procession into the church, and students learned their new houses as Fr. Jack knighted them. Each house has a charitable focus and projects for the year, and students earn points to help their house win a trophy at the end of the year.

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St. John Hosts Book Fair

St. John School hosted many events during the Enchanted Forest Book Club. On Thursday of Book Fair week, students dressed up as their favorite storybook characters. Every grade had creative individual or group costumes. Students got to learn about other characters and books from their fellow schoolmates!

East Hill Holds Donuts with Dad

Donuts with Dad is always a highlight of East Hill Christian School’s Scholastic Book Fair. This year’s theme was the Enchanted Forest. Many students and their parents come out and enjoy this big event. The students are looking forward to Munch with Mom!

Little Engineers @ Little Flower

Little Flower Catholic School’s first-grade class of budding engineers and designers has been making and building with LittleBits. Technology and robotics teacher Mr. Hartwell loves bringing these activities to even the younger grades during Makers’ Week in the Media Center. 21

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Lipscomb Holds Alphabet Parade

When R.C. Lipscomb Elementary held an alphabet parade, all of the letters were represented, from A to Z, as kids paraded their decorated vests for their friends to see. One mom was doing her best to make everyone hungry - she and her son covered his vest in DONUTS!!!

Please email news and photos to schoolnews@ greaterpensacolaparents.com!

St. Paul Catholic Celebrates Johnny Appleseed Day

Younger students at St. Paul Catholic School enjoyed celebrating Johnny Appleseed Day in September. Kindergarten conducted a taste test complete with Apple Jacks, apple juice and apple jelly. First grade made their own applesauce in class, used Apple Jacks to complete math problems, and enjoyed apple pie. Second grade made wonderful hats styled after the pot that legend says Johnny Appleseed himself wore. It was a wonderful day full of apples!

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St. John’s third-grade class, with teacher Erin Kimbell, tried to separate the three colors in Aquafresh toothpaste, and drew an analogy between the toothpaste and the Holy Trinity. Each color is important to caring for teeth, but they work together as one toothpaste. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit work together as the Holy Trinity, one God, three persons, to help us get to heaven.

Hansel & Gretel Visit Blessed Star

Blessed Star Montessori students were in for a very special treat when the Pensacola Opera came to perform Hansel & Gretel. This was the first time that many of the students had a chance to see a live opera performance. In preparation for the performance, the students learned what opera is, some of the opera terminology, and learned about the story of Hansel and Gretel. The students enjoyed the performance from start to finish and could not take their eyes off the performers. The students were sad to see them leave and are hoping to have them come back again.

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Redeemer Holds Coat and Blanket Drive

St. John Explains Trinity Using Toothpaste

St. Paul Lunch Bunch

Redeemer Lutheran School alumnus Noah Davis worked with Redeemer Lutheran Church & School and Christ’s Hands, Inc., to provide coats and blankets to a povertystricken community in eastern Kentucky for his senior service project while he was a student at Redeemer. With the help of Redeemer families, he was able to collect and send more than 400 items to Harlan County, Kentucky.

East Hill Enjoys Moon Study

The ever-popular “Lunch Bunch” has returned! A small group of students at St. Paul Catholic School “picnic” on the guidance office floor and then play a board game together. This gives them the opportunity to get to know their guidance counselor while fine-tuning their interpersonal skills in a controlled setting.

East Hill Christian School’s 4th-graders enjoyed learning about God’s design of the surface of the moon in science class. To help them get a firsthand experience of what the moon’s surface looks like, they made salt dough moons.

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Tradition of Hero Lunches Continues at Beulah

Hero lunches at Beulah Elementary are a fantastic tradition. Each week a different grade level gets to invite their heroes. First responders and military service members volunteer to make sure no child eats alone.

St. Paul Introduces New Student Council

Little Flower Makes Unity Tree

St. Paul Catholic School recently recognized its 2018-19 Student Council members.

Little Flower Catholic School kindergartners have been working hard to do their part for our Unity Tree. Guidance counselor Abby Mills worked with all grade levels during October for bullying awareness and prevention.

St. John Morning Star Projects

St. John Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Morning Star program had a social studies project on different Native American Tribes. Each child picked out a tribe and did his own research on them. They each presented their tribe to the class and teachers Jennifer Harrington and Sr. Margaret Ann Calcutta.

EHS National Flight Academy Students Make Presentation

Students from the Escambia High School National Flight Academy (NFA-ACE) presented to the Escambia County School Board. Video of their presentation is available on the School Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meeting Information page. Student presenters were: Wesley Delware, Grant Morris, Sadie Epstein and Hayden Smith. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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Trinitas Starts Off Day with Peaceful Beginnings

At Trinitas Christian School, we start the day off right! Each morning one of our talented pianists begins the day with a 20-minute prelude before Mr. Gilley begins morning meeting. Hymns and songs resonate throughout the Grand Hall. Students and staff can be heard humming along as they enjoy the beautiful melodies. Meanwhile, in the back of the Grand Hall, students (and often parents or teachers) can be found playing chess, cards, or other creative games. The spirit of thoughtful competition and strategy accompanied with glorious piano music from the stage affords a great start to each new day.

Reporters Visit Warrington Elementary Principal

Melissa Gabriel and Tony Giberson from the Pensacola News Journal visited Warrington Elementary School to talk with Principal Tim Rose about being a Marine and how that experience affects his style of leadership. His perspective includes the idea that sometimes you have to approach your students as a father figure and help them learn how to help themselves.

Worldwide Day of Play Makes Impact on Pensacola Students

Awesome day for an awesome community event with awesome PE teachers! Pensacola was rocking the 5210 Worldwide Day of Play, the Palafox Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market, and the Seafood Festival. Summer may be over, but fall is great in our town. Teachers present included Quientella Bonner, Tabitha Barrow, Heather Bell, Chad Hetherington, Todd Aulger, and Scott Carrico.

St. John 7th-Graders Study Ancient Greece

St. John Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 7th-grade class has been studying Ancient Greece with their teacher, Erica Malloy. After substantial research and preparation, groups of students presented on different aspects of Ancient Greece. Students dressed up, created visual aids, and even brought in food to share their knowledge with their classmates.

Water Safety Day @ Cecil Hunter Pool

Hundreds of county second-graders were taught water safety skills by local volunteers during Water Safey Day at Cecil Hunter Pool recently. Fantastic job, Water And Youth Safety, Pensacola!

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Fostering Gratitude in a “Gimme” World It’s November. Get ready to see handprint turkeys in every variety hanging in classrooms, daycares and on your fridge. Every year, I spend time talking with my students about being thankful and asking them to share what they are thankful for. Their quick first response is usually, “My family.” However, it is a challenge to get them to think far beyond Mom, Dad, tablets and toys. When asked to create a list, my own son had trouble writing down much more than three or four things...and they were not the things I would pick! It has made me think, “Am I being intentional in teaching my children about gratitude?” A couple weeks ago, I went to “pick up” groceries at our local store. This is the best thing for a busy mama since the frozen pb&j! I can just drive up to a designated parking space, sit and wait in my car as I scroll through FB and open the trunk when the assistant arrives with my groceries. It gets better! They load my groceries for me! And I have to say, these folks are very talented at cramming a week’s worth of groceries in between a stroller, emergency kit and about 42 items that I have no idea how they even got there! On this particular pick up day, I waited... and I waited. I sat there for nearly 20 minutes waiting on my groceries. I be-

came impatient and when the assistant arrived, I was a little short and let them know how long I had waited. The guy was maybe 22 and looked completely overwhelmed. He told me they were overbooked for my time slot and it was out of his control. He promised to move quickly and take good care of things. As I sat in my seat with the A/C blowing full blast, I looked through the rearview mirror and I watched him loading my groceries carefully as he was drenched in sweat. It was 3 p.m. and he told me, “It’s been like this all day!” He had been in this boiling hot parking lot...all day. He smiled and told me to have a great afternoon as he closed my back door. I smiled, glanced Gro c back again Pick ery Up! in the rear view mirror to see my son, and then I sunk a little. Groceries were hand picked, delivered and loaded into my car. The most work I did was typing on a keyboard and driving to the store. Yet the wait made me forget the sweet blessing of never even needing to walk inside. I decided then, we needed to take some time to foster gratitude. So often, I think we expect our children to just know how to behave or to know how to feel; similar to those toys we buy that sing songs, spin and

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

blink. We add some batteries and push the button and “Voila!” Oh, how I wish it were that easy with our little ones. We have to remind ourselves that they do not come programmed with obedience, manners or gratitude. It’s not automatic for our children to be able to express gratitude for all of their many blessings-from food on the table to Netflix on the TV. However, we can take some time this month to list all we’re thankful for and build a spirit of gratitude within our home. Ready to take on the challenge? We’re going to need 3 things--a pen, a pack of post-its and a big blank wall. Each night, give each member of your family a post-it. On that post-it, write something you are thankful for and take a moment to share it out loud. Give that blessing a voice and share WHY it’s meaningful to you. Let those little notes lead to big discussions. Then take that bright yellow square of gratitude and stick it right to the wall. As those post-its grow and grow, they are going to turn into one amazing picture of all your family is truly thankful for. And, that is something your children will always remember--maybe even more than a handprint turkey. It’s not automatic and you’re not a failure when your child seems less than appreciative for the free lollipop at the bank. But if we take a little time to shape their hearts and give words and meaning to an abstract feeling, you might just hear a grateful and unprompted, “Thank You!” a little more and more. First thing I’m writing on my post-it? Grocery Pick-Up...Can I get an “Amen?” www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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Planning and Success Q. I’m stuck in a dead-end job, and I only have a high school diploma. I’ve never minded long hours and hard work, but I’ve begun to realize I need to have a better career, so I can spend more time with my kids. I feel like I’m missing out on their lives, because I work 65 to 70 hours every week. Any advice? A. Asking questions and exploring your

options like this is a much smarter move than simply walking away from an unsatisfying job situation — especially when you have a family to think about. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to improve yourself in terms of education or your career. But before you do any of that, you’ve got to have a definite direction in mind. You need an in-depth, detailed game plan for the next three or four years that’s designed to put you where you want to be. It may involve going back to

school for some classes, additional training in your field, or even getting a full-blown degree. If you identify your long-term goals in detail, it will lead you to some of the shortterm goals that will help you arrive at your final destination. Have you tried talking to your boss about your goals and your situation? See if you can have a sincere conversation with him or her, and discuss your feelings about your career and what’s going on with your family, too. Your company may be very receptive to the idea of increasing your value in the workplace. A good leader will also understand the importance of family. Also, there’s a great book by Dan Miller that addresses this topic. It’s called 48 Days to the Work You Love. In this book, he lays out the steps to discovering what you really love to do and how to get there.

Forgive the debt? Q. Recently, I loaned some money to a good friend. He’s going to help me with a big

home project over the next few weekends, so do you think I should pay him for the work or forgive the debt instead?

A. First, I don’t recommend loaning money to friends or family. Once in a while, things may work out and everyone ends up happy. But in most cases, it changes the dynamic of the relationship. The big question is whether you’ve already agreed to pay him for the work. Another consideration is how he views the situation. He may be looking at this as just helping a buddy, and he still owes the money. Ask him what his expectations are before you guys start the job. Just talk to him, and figure out what seems fair to you both. If you’ve already agreed on a certain amount, and the value of the work is close to what you loaned him, you might discuss the idea of paying back the debt that way. But in the future, if someone close to you really needs financial help — and you’re not enabling bad behavior in the process — just make the money a gift.

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Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; up until dinner is over, that is. When their bellies are full, the men retire to watch football, the kids scatter to empty rooms and the women are often left with kitchen duty. Avoid the after dinner segregation and keep them together with these Thanksgiving games and activities. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

Leaf Blower: Split the group into two teams. Each team needs to blow a leaf from Point A to Point B using a straw in a relay race style. The next player will blow it back from Point B to Point A until everyone has had a turn. First team to finish wins.

I Was So Hungry:

This memory game is a fun way to get the party laughing. The players sit at the table or in a circle. The first player starts, “I was so hungry that I ate a juicy drumstick for Thanksgiving.” The next person adds something like, “I was so hungry that I ate a juicy drumstick and a mound of mash potatoes for Thanksgiving.” Keep repeating and adding until the whole party is stuffed.

Stuffed Turkey: Wrap a piece of candy in brown box tape. Continue to wrap the tape in a ball, adding additional pieces of candy as you go. The size of the ball will depend on how many players and how much candy you have.

(This is a great way to use up the rest of your Halloween candy.) To play, place the ball in the center of the table. Using a pair of dice, each player takes a turn rolling for doubles. If you get doubles, you can start unwrapping the ball to get candy for as long as it takes the next player to get doubles. The ball is then passed to that player and so on until the ball is completely unwrapped.

construction paper or foam sheets. Don’t forget your camera!

Pass the Cranberries: Using a turkey baster, pick up a cranberry and bring it to a bowl on the other side of the room. The first team to pass all their cranberries from one bowl to the other is the winner.

Fill Your Plate: This is a two part Toss & Tell: All players sit in a circle. game. Use free printables of ThanksgivStart by tossing a small turkey stuffed animal or small football to a player and ask a question like, “Who do you think will make it to the Super Bowl this year?” or “What is your favorite memory from elementary school?” This multigenerational game will be a hit!

Dress the Turkey:

Select a volunteer from the family to be the turkey. Using brown crepe paper streamers, wrap up the turkey until he is covered. Decorate the turkey with a yellow beak, feet and colorful feathers made from

ing meal items – drumstick, cranberries, potatoes, stuffing, corn and pie. Have the kids color and cut out their dinner items. When everything is colored, pass out a paper plate to each player. The game is a spin off of the Cootie game, but instead of building a bug, we are filling our plate. Assign each meal item with a number and each time a player rolls the die, he gets to put that item on his plate. Whoever fills their plate first is the winner. GPP Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving at her house without games! Follow her on Etsy at Pam’s Party Printables for more party and game ideas.

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Modern Holiday Classic Pajama Party ad on page 14

November 24 - December 23, 2018 National Naval Aviation Museum 1750 Radford Blvd. Suite C, Pensacola, FL 32508 Enjoy a 3:00pm showing of the Christmas classic The Polar Express on the giant screen every Saturday and Sunday beginning November 24 through Sunday, December 23. Tickets are available in person at the museum ticket counter for $7 per person. Children will receive a free hot cocoa and a cookie. 850-453-2389 www.navalaviationmuseum.org

Twas the Night Before Little Spruce Market ad on page 9

December 14, 2018 @ Museum of Commerce 201 Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Delight in the warming of this special time of year. Sip free flowing wine, graze Festive hors d’oeuvre in the candle light of the night before Little Spruce Market. Muse over freshly setup makers including Pensacraft, Yesternow, Truth Soap Co, Thimble Tree, HomeGrown Pillows, Anne Webb Pottery from Magnolia Springs, 17th Ave Design Jewelry, Prickly Pair painted signs, Muffy & Trudy Jewelry, Orenda’s Originals Jewelry, Chewsworthy children’s jewelry, Little Flamingo Hair Bows, Trial by Fire handcrafted knives, Asher & Bee, Panhandle Wax Co, Straight-Up Cake, Knotted Bow Ties, and many more delightful handmade small business in an enchanted Old World setting. Dance to boogie boogie band, The beautiful Blue Anchor Belles, meet and greet new and old friends. Tickets are all inclusive, you must be over 21 to enter. ALL ‘TWAS The Night Before Little Spruce Market’ Preview TICKETS INCLUDE ENTRY FOR SAT & SUN DEC 15 & 16 at LITTLE SPRUCE MARKET 2018 www.PensacolaMarket.com

Cordova Lanes Child-Adult Holiday Doubles Bowling Tournament ad on page 33

December 16, 2018 @ Cordova Lanes 2111 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504 Bring the kids out for an afternoon of family fun! This is a double tournamt for one child (5-18) and one adult (19 and up). Entry fee is $16 per team. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

2 shifts available with one at 12noon and the other at 3:00 p.m. Call or visit the website for registration information, handicap info and additional details. 850-477-2300 www.cordovalanes.com

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever ad on page 7

December 7 - 9, 13 - 16, 2018 @ Pensacola Little Theatre 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Musical directed by Roxie Smith with musical direction by Tina Buran. A Treehouse production. The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world. So no one is prepared when this outlaw family invades church one Sunday and decides to take over the annual Christmas pageant. Visit the website for tickets and showtimes. 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com

Play Pensacola Fall Break Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

November 19 - 23, 2018 @ E.S. Cobb Resource Center, 850-436-5192 601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, FL 32503 @ Fricker Resource Center, 850-436-5195 900 North F Street Pensacola, FL 32501 @ Vickrey Resource Center, 850-912-4056 2130 Summit Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32503 @ Woodland Heights Resource Ctr, 850-435-1750 111 Berkley Drive Pensacola, FL 32503 Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Please call for registration instructions.

Zoo Lights 2018 ad on Back Cover

November 23 - 25 and December 7 - 9, & 14 - 30, 2018 @ Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Breeze Zoo as you admire thousands of sparkling holiday lights. Please visit our website for details on other events throughout the season such as Toys for Tots and Santa Nights! Adults & Children $10 each. Members are $5 each. Zoo Lights is open from 5pm - 9pm with the last admission at 8:30pm. 850-932-2229 www.gbzoo.com

Wales West Arctic Express ad on page 16

November 23 - December 24, 2018 @ Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576 All aboard the Arctic Express at Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway. Great holiday fun for the whole family! Ride an authentic Steam Train through a wonderland of lights, snow, and decorations to the North Pole. Children visit with Santa in the Winter-wonderland barn and receive a free wooden toy. Our staff can take your family photo with Santa. Free Refreshments, Mini-Train Ride, Hay Ride, Playground, and Bounce House. In addition, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Snowball Cannon are available for a slight fee. Try the Cafe’s new menu options and shop the Gift Shop full of train items ideal for Christmas gifts. Open WEEKENDS: Friday Sunday, 4:00pm-9:00pm. Open nightly beginning December 12th from 4:00pm - 9:00pm. Admission is $15/person, plus tax. Ages 2 and under are free. Group rates, field trips, and parties can be booked in advance. 888-569-5337 www.waleswest.com

The Nutcracker -

LaBelle Performing Arts presents Pensacola Youth Ballet ad on page 39

November 30 - December 1, 2018 @ Booker T. Washington Theatre 6000 College Parkway Pensacola, FL 32504 Treat your family this Christmas to the magic and splendor of Pensacola Youth Ballet’s most anticipated holiday tradition. Don’t miss this lavish production with dazzling costumes, spectacular dancers, and a story that will leave your family wide eyed with wonder! Friday & Saturday performances begin at 7:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase on our website.

850-944-5650 Frontdesk@labelleperformingarts.com www.pensacolayouthballet.org

Gulf Breeze Zoo Santa Nights ad on Back Cover

TBA @ Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Santa is coming to the Zoo and you don’t want to miss it! Enjoy taking pictures with Santa and some very special animal friends. Santa will also be

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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accepting those last minute Christmas letters and special requests from your little ones. Dates and Times coming soon! 850-932-2229 www.gbzoo.com

Ice Sculpting Demonstrations ad on Back Cover

TBA @ Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Watch as a master craftsman wields a chainsaw against towering blocks of solid ice to create beautiful zoo themed art! Sculptures will be available for photo opportunities all evening. Exciting for children and adults. Times and Dates coming soon! 850-932-2229 www.gbzoo.com

Little Spruce Market ad on page 9

December 15 - 16, 2018 @ Museum of Commerce 201 Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Just in time for the holidays, shoppers can find the perfect gifts browsing through vendors such as Pensacraft, Yesternow, Truth Soap Co, Thimble Tree, HomeGrown Pillows, Anne Webb Pottery from Magnolia Springs, 17th Ave Design Jewelry, Prickly Pair painted signs, Muffy & Trudy Jewelry, Orenda’s Originals Jewelry, Chewsworthy children’s jewelry, Little Flamingo Hair Bows, Trial by Fire handcrafted knives, Asher & Bee, Panhandle Wax Co, Straight-Up Cake, Knotted Bow Ties, and many more delightful handmade small business in an enchanted Old World setting. Tickets to the Saturday & Sunday event is $5, kids under 12 admitted for free. Discounts available: One general is $5, two general is $8 and 3 general is $11. www.facebook.com/PensacolaMarket

Beulah Craft & Sausage Festival

November 3, 2018 @ First Baptist Church of Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526 Enjoy a day of family friendly fun. Live music, food, arts and crafts from 9am - 3pm. Entertainment lineup will be FBCB Praise Team, A Higher Calling, and Kate Engelmeyer. If you would like to be a vendor please email beulahmom3@gmail.com. 850-944-2143 www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org

St. Simon’s Arts and Craft Fair

November 2 - 3, 2018 @ St. Simon’s on the Sound 28 Miracle Strip Parkway SW Fort Walton, FL 32548 Unique finds for all ages. Jewelry, pottery, soaps, textiles, metalwork, fine art painting and photography, repurposed/upcycled items, bake shop, and much more! Lunch and dessert available on-site. Free admission. Food available on-site. Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-3pm. 850-244-8621 stsimonscraftfair@gmail.com www.stsimons-fwb.org

Frank Brown Int’l Songwriters Festival

November 8 - 18, 2018 @ The Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Songwriters across many genres will perform during the 11-day festival. Children are welcome at performances until 6pm each day.

850-492-0611 info@florabama.com www.frankbrownsongwriters.com

Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Open House

November 8, 2018 @ Chrisoula’s Cheesecake 236 West Garden St, Ste 2A Pensacola, FL 32502 Holiday Flavored Cheesecakes and our Appetizer Cheesecakes. Plus a Special Surprise Flavor! Take Advantage of Discounts on your Holiday Orders & Register to win a 9 inch Cheesecake. We will also

be collecting Toys for Tots again this year. 5pm 7pm. 850-438-5650 ccspensacola@yahoo.com www.chrisoulascheesecakeshoppe.com

Santa’s Arrival Parade at Cordova Mall

November 9, 2018 @ Cordova Mall 5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Festivities are from 5:30pm - 7:30pm with, face painting, Hill-Kelly Dodge, Fishbein Orthodontics, Pensacola Fire Department and more. Adventure Motorsports of Pensacola will bring in our Grand Marshall, Lauren Wolfe, with WEAR! Harvesters Federal Credit Union will Sponsor the exciting Animal Tales Show. The Parade begins at 7pm and ends at Center Court. Visits with Santa are free. 850-477-7562 www.cordovamall.com

Alyssa’s Holiday Market

November 10, 2018 @ Alyssa’s Antique Depot 4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571 Get a head start on your Christmas lists with our Holiday Market from 9am-4pm. 850-994-9114

Pine Forest Arts & Crafts Festival

November 10, 2018 @ Pine Forest UMC 2800 Wilde Lake Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32526 Over 195 arts, crafts and other vendors, a car show, snack shop, homemade baked goods, grilled Boston butts, and live music by our praise band. Door prizes will be given out throughout the day. Admission and parking will be free to the public. Proceeds will be used for church and community ministries. 850-944-0170 www.pineforestumc.org/craft-fair

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Junior League of Pensacola’s Market Basket

November 10 - 11, 2018 @ Court of DeLuna Event Space 116 East Gonzalez Street Pensacola, FL 32501 An exciting fundraiser complete with food samplings from area chefs, home goods, and personal accessories. Put on your Sunday best and join us at this exclusive and unique event featuring regional and local entrepreneurs you simply must get to know! Find out more and purchase tickets online. Children under 8 years are free. November 10th from 10am – 5pm and November 11th from 11am - 4pm. 850-433-4421 marketbasket@juniorleagueofpensacola. org www.PensacolaMarketBasket.com

Escambia County All County Band Concert

November 15, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Concert begins at 7:00pm and consist of all middle school student in Escambia County schools. This event is free and open to the general public. 850-469-5311 www.ecsd-fl.schoolloop.com/finearts

Christmas Creations Arts & Crafts Show

begins at 8:00am. The 5K will begin at 8:30am.

Wild Turkey Trot

November 17, 2018 @ Seville Quarter 130 East Government Street Pensacola, Fl 32502 This is a 5K Run/Walk flat course starting in the Seville Quarter Entertainment Complex. Fantastic Post Race Party & Awards presentation with Turkey Chili, Coca Cola, Miller Lite and Wild Turkey Punch! Proceeds help Seville Quarter’s employees prepare and deliver complete Thanksgiving dinners to over 125 needy families. The event is from 8am - 12pm. Registration is online. 850-434-6211 susilyon@cox.net www.sevillequarter.com

Winterfest - Santa’s Drawing Contest

November 17, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Santa is always looking for new artwork to hang up at his workshop. Children may bring in their very own drawings to this party or do the artwork at the event. The winner will be Santa’s special guest in his sleigh at the Elf Parade! Join the fun from 3-6pm. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org/photos-with-santa

Winterfest - Christmas Town Activities

844-486-5165 turkeytrot@premierisland.com www.pensacolabeachturkeytrot.com

Thanksgiving Potluck

November 22, 2018 @ The Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Bring a covered dish to share and take the stress out out of holiday cooking from 12pm - 4pm. Buffet opens at 1pm. 850-492-0611 info@florabama.com

First City Lights Festival

November 23, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola Immediately following the Pensacola Elf Parade the Grinch will try and prevent the Mayor of Whoville from flipping the switch to turn on the lights! The First City Lights will stretch from Garden Street to Main Street on Palafox. The holiday lighting ceremony will launch the First City Lights Festival, a season-long lineup of downtown holiday events as traditional as The Nutcracker and as contemporary as Pop-Up Opera. Wandering along Palafox throughout the holidays, you may chance upon live street performances, caroling in the streets, Santa posing for photos and Winterfest Trolley Tours. From 5pm - 8pm.

November 17-18, 23-25, 30 and December 1-2, 7-9, 14-24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 A stage show with Santa’s team of reindeer, the Island of Misfit Toys, along with dancing Christmas trees and snowflakes greet every trolley. Dance and play with Santa’s reindeer, or ride the Winterfest Express train. There’s even a letter writing corner for those important letters to Santa! Join the fun from 11am-9pm.

850-583-1365 www.pensacolawinterfest.org

November 16 - December 24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 The moment you enter Plaza Wonderland on Palafox Place, the snow begins to fall. A cup of hot chocolate and the sound of a trolley bell bring back memories of the Polar Express. The conductor calls your name: All aboard for the most wonderful journey you’ll take this Christmas season. Snow falls every night of the Winterfest celebration from 5pm - 8pm.

Winterfest - Letters to Santa/ Visit Santa

850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.elfparade.com

Films on the Field

850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org/photos-with-santa

November 16 - 17, 2018 @ First UMC of Pensacola 6 East Wright Street Pensacola, FL 32501 Two large spaces with vendors, lunch and a sweet shoppe for all your holiday treats! Proceeds from this will go to ministries benefitting women and children in our community. Open Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturday 9am - 2pm. Admission is free. 850-418-1241 www.fumcpensacola.com

Winterfest - Let it Snow

850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

November 17, 2018 @ Gulf Breeze Community Center 800 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Join us at the Farmers Market from 4pm - 8pm. Beginning at 5pm, there will be games, prizes, bounce house and more. Bring blankets, Lawn chairs & a Picnic for the Movie, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, starting at 7pm. Concessions will also be available for purchase. Contact us to find out how to showcase your business as a Sponsor for this event! Future date for Films on the Field is December 15, 2018. More info to be announced. 850-934-5140 sellis@gulfbreezefl.gov www.gulfbreezerecreationcenter.com/upcoming-events

Pancakes with Santa

November 17, 2018 @ Gulf Coast Kid’s House 3401 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503 Come enjoy breakfast and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 8:00am - 10:30am. Fun children’s activities with Santa’s elves. Tickets are $10 per child. Children 3 and under are free. This event is sponsored by Pensacola Cordova Rotary. Follow our event on Facebook for updates. 850-595-5800 www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www. pensacolawinterfest.org

November 17-18, 23-25, 30, 2018 and December 1-2, 7-9, 14-24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 What better way to send in your Christmas list than to talk to Santa himself? Climb aboard Santa’s sleigh for a chance to meet Santa from 11am-9pm. Take photos, video, and make special memories. Children can then write letters to Santa and deliver them in our special mailbox! Santa’s favorite letter writer will be awarded the first gift of Christmas at the “Santa Send Off” on December 24.

Winterfest - Performance Tours

November 18, 23-24, 30 and December 1, 7, 14-16, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Experience the Holiday spirit in a unique way from 4:30-8:00pm! Climb aboard a trolley and ride through Downtown Pensacola. Singing guides accompany passengers into a world of wonder with scenes from your favorite holiday stories. This hour-long performance tour will visit scenes from A Christmas Carol, Peanuts, The Grinch, A Christmas Story, and many more! 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

8th Annual Pensacola Beach Turkey Trot & 5K November 22, 2018 @ Pensacola Beach 2200 Via De Luna Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Hosted along Pensacola Beach, Turkey Trot 5k will be held on Thanksgiving Day! This is a fun, family friendly event with a variety of activities for all ages. The Fun Run is a 200 yard dash on the sand and

Winterfest - Elf Parade

November 23, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Calling all elves! Join the Winterfest elf parade with your favorite Christmas characters! Sign up to walk and compete in contests for the following categories; best costume, best ears, best wagon, and best stroller. Just want to watch? Gather around Downtown Pensacola on Black Friday to catch this annual tradition from 4:45-5:15pm! Participants line-up at 3:15pm.

Fish River Christmas Tree Farm

November 23 - December 23, 2018 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd E Summerdale, AL There’s something special about a family trip to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. Stroll through our 40-acre Christmas Tree Farm and evergreen nursery and view the wide selection of trees. We offer choose & cut trees, fresh cut fir and spruce trees, as well as displays of flocked trees (for pre-order) and containergrown, Living Trees to replant after the holidays. Stay on the farm in one of our 5-star rated cabins. See activity dates in this directory for Santa visits, live manger scene, camel rides, train and more! Our nursery is now open year round and the tree farm is open daily from 8am - 5pm. 251-988-8114 fishrivertrees@gulftel.com www.fishrivertrees.com

Christmas Magic in Lights

November 23 - December 31, 2018 @ Bellingrath Gardens Theodore, AL 36582 It’s one of the nation’s best holiday light shows! Designed and made right here at Bellingrath Gardens. Stroll through a dazzling nighttime display with more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. Walking tour hours are 5pm - 9pm nightly. 251-973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

Winterfest - The Polar Express Movie at the Saenger November 24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Watch The Polar Express with the whole family

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at the Saenger Theatre at 6:30 pm. Children are encouraged to wear pajamas, and sign up for the costume contest that will take place before the show.

season-all ages are welcome. From 6pm - 8pm.

850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Winter Art & Craft Fair

Winterfest – Magical Puppet Tour (mini tour)

November 24-25 and December 8, 17-24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join storyteller Paul Morrell and a cast of hilarious puppets for a trolley tour full of magic, songs, and amazing stories from 12-3pm. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Wreaths of Joy Gala

November 29, 2018 @ National Aviation Museum 1750 Radford Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32508 Gather at this highly regarded affair and enjoy a three course dinner, entertainment, auctions, and more! Proceeds support programs at The Arc Gateway, a Pensacola area non-profit providing services and support to over 850 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 5:30pm. 850-434-2638 info@arc-gateway.org www.arc-gateway.org/foundation/wreaths-of-joy-gala

An Evening in Bethlehem

November 30 - December 1, 2018 @ Gonzalez UMC 2026 Pauline Street Cantonment, FL 32533 Make this a Christmas tradition for your family! Walk through the town of Bethlehem and get a glimpse of what life was like at the time of the birth of Christ. This is a great way to start the Christmas

850-968-6006 office@gumc.gccoxmail.com www.gonzalezmethodist.org

November 30 - December 1, 2018 @ St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 6849 Oak Street Milton, FL 32570 Celebrate the season and do some holiday shopping. Multiple vendors offering woodcrafts, candles, baked goods, and more. Friday 12:00pm - 7:00pm and Saturday 9:00am - 2:30pm. Admission is Free. Lunch will be available for purchase. 850-623-2905 stmarysmiltonflorida@gmail.com

Choral Society of Pensacola Presents: Handel’s Messiah December 1, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Popular soloists Carla Connors, Monika Cosson, Thomas Rowell, and Patrick Jacobs return to perform with our 60-voice chorus and the Choral Society Orchestra. 850-595-3880 info@pensacolasaenger.com www.pensacolasaenger.com

Gulf Breeze Holiday Parade

December 1, 2018 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Help us celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Gulf Breeze Area Chamber as we go back in time to have a little fun with a Totally Awesome 80’s Holiday Parade! There’s an entire decade of fads, hot toys and games, music, movies, tv shows and cartoons to help you get in the spirit. Parade 10:00am. 850-932-7888 reception@gulfbreezechamber.com www.cityofgulfbreeze.com

Lighted Boat Parade

December 1, 2018 @ From Sabine Marina to Pensacola Beach Boardwalk Pre-show party for kids from 4pm - 6pm. Boat Parade at 6:30pm from Sabine Marina to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Look for Santa on the lead boat! Fireworks with Santa on the Soundside at 8pm. 850-932-1500 www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Milton Christmas Parade

December 1, 2018 Highway 87 (Stewart Street) Milton, FL 32570 850-623-2339 info@srcchamber.com www.srcchamber.com

Navarre Christmas in the Park

December 1, 2018 @ Navarre Park 8513 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566 This year’s event will include a Merry Market with local arts and craft vendors. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by fire truck in the parade and will be available for photos with children as soon as the parade ends. The Christmas Parade begins at 2pm at the Navarre Library. The tree lighting will take place at 5pm. Join us from 10am - 5pm. 850-939-3267 www.navarrechamber.com

Navarre Jingle Bell Run

December 1, 2018 @ Holley-Navarre Fire Station 8618 Esplanade Street Navarre, FL 32566 The 5K Run/Walk Fun Run will begin at 8:00am. The first 200 registrants receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will be post race refreshments and door prizes. A special prize will be awarded to the most festive participant. You can download registration forms from our website. 850-939-3267 info@navarrechamberfoundation.org www.navarrechamberfoundation.org/jingle-bell.html

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Winterfest - Cookie Festival

December 1, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Santa is looking for Pensacola’s best cookie, and he needs your help! Professional bakeries and local, home-bakers have come to compete for the chance to win free Winterfest tickets and a cash prize. Come be a cookie taster and vote for your favorite cookie! Enjoy performances by characters from Whoville, Peanuts, and the North Pole too! Tickets are $10 per person online and $15 at the door. Festival is from 1:30pm - 4:00pm. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Caring Santa at Cordova Mall

December 2, 2018 @ Cordova Mall 5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Please join us for a private photo experience for children with special needs and their families from 10am - 11am. Children will visit with Santa and have their photo taken with him. Cordova Mall will make necessary adjustments to the environment to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs of children of all abilities for this special event. Please register for this free event on our website.

while experiencing all the sights and sounds of the season. Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm; Sunday at 2:30pm. Tickets on sale now online or at the box office. To purchase tickets by phone, please call (800) 745-3000. 850-434-7760 www.pensacolachildrenschorus.com

2nd Annual Busy Bees Market

December 8, 2018 @ Perdido Bay UMC Pensacola, FL 32507 Over 30 local artisans, boutiques and crafters will help with your holiday shopping from 9am-3pm. We will also have food trucks, kids activities and a special kids only market. Donate non-perishable food items for the USO NW Florida food pantry who open their pantry once a month to support military families in need. 850-492-2135 busybeesmarketfl@gmail.com

Billy Claus visits Lulu’s!

December 8, 2018 @ LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s will arrive in style, read a Christmas story, and listen to your wish list to pass on to Santa! Enjoy arts & crafts, live music and get your picture taken with Billy Claus and more fun from 1pm - 4pm.

850-477-7562 www.cordovamall.com

251-967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Surfing Santa Beach Parade

Boat Parade Activities at The Wharf

December 2, 2018 @ Via de Luna to Casino Beach Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 See Santa Claus make his way down Via De Luna Drive atop a Pensacola Beach fire truck. Starting at 2pm. from Avenida 10, the parade will make its way down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach and end at the Gulfside Pavilion, where kids will be able to meet and greet with Santa until 3pm. For more info, visit our website and click on the calendar under the what’s happening tab.

December 8, 2018 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Want a front row seat for all the illuminated action? The Wharf is the place to be! Watch as boats, large and small, glide through the Intracoastal Waterway in all their festive glory. Head down early to avoid traffic and grab a bite to eat or catch up on some holiday shopping. There will be plenty of fun activities for the kiddos as well. Make it a family affair and join us! Parade time TBD, The Wharf shops are open until 9:00pm.

850-932-1500 www.visitpensacolabeach.com

251-224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra “Holiday Pops”

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

December 7, 2018 @ Mattie Kelly Arts CenterMain Hall 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 The joy of the holidays will fill the air as the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra and Chorale, perform seasonal favorites including, The Nutcracker, Handel’s Messiah and music from John Williams, featured in the movie Home Alone. It’s an evening for all ages beginning at 7:30pm. 850-729-6000 www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

South Baldwin Community Theater “A Charlie Brown Christmas”

December 7 - 9, 14 - 16, 2018 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL 36542 The classic animated television special A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation, in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts Gang discover the true meaning of Christmas. Friday and Saturday times are at 7:30pm and Sunday times are at 2:30pm.

December 8, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola Come join the fun from 5:30pm - 8:00pm. You will not want to miss this event that draws over 50,000 people each year, including nearly 90 entries, and eight bands from Escambia County, New Orleans and Mississippi. The parade also features the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from around the region. lew@coxpensacolachristmasparade.org www.coxpensacolachristmasparade.org

Santa Drop

December 8, 2018 @ The Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Kick-off the Christmas season with the annual Santa Drop from 11am-2pm. Come watch Santa skydive onto the beach and enjoy activities for kids in the Flora-Bama tent. 850-492-0611 info@florabama.com

Toy Drive and Dental Clinic at the Island of Misfit Toys

December 7 - 9, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Celebrate the best time of the year. We will transform the sunny weather into a winter wonderland

December 8, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Characters from the Island of misfit toys are encouraging children to bring toys for families in need. Join these characters for a magical toy drive with lots of activities! Play with characters, dance with reindeer, or go visit Hermey’s dental clinic! Dr. Stu Bonnin will be using Bumble to demonstrate

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

251-968-6721 info@sbct.biz www.sbct.biz

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Christmas on the Coast

dental hygiene practices for children of all ages! 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Santa Pet Photo Night at Cordova Mall December 9, 2018 @ Cordova Mall 5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Sit, stay and pose for a photo with Santa! Santa will be waiting at the Center Court to welcome all fur babies to come for a visit. Pet Photo Night is from 6pm - 7pm and registration is encouraged. Photo prices vary. Please see our website for more details and registration. 850-477-7562 www.cordovamall.com

Santa’s Lego Building Workshop

December 9, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Children under 12 are invited to come build their very own Lego Christmas ornament for Santa’s Christmas tree! Children can bring their own lego creation or make one at the event--Legos provided. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage

December 13, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Adapted from Charles M. Schulz’s timeless story of the spirit of Christmas, the show features the unforgettable music of Vince Guaraldi, holiday carols performed by the Peanuts characters. There’s no better way to discover the magic of the season! Performance Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm. Purchase tickets at the box office or online. 850-595-3880 info@pensacolasaenger.com www.pensacolasaenger.com

Santa’s Puppy Party

December 15, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Many children ask Santa for a puppy so he’s decided to bring the puppies to Winterfest! Children will have an opportunity to pick a puppy courtesy of the Escambia County Animal Shelter. Give your child a memorable gift this Christmas, and a home to these puppies in need from 2-4pm. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Winter Wonder Ride

December 15, 2018 @ Museum Plaza Museum Lane Pensacola, FL 32502 It’s that time again! onBikes Pensacola is proud to announce its 3rd Annual Winter Wonder Ride. Join us beginning at 12:00pm for our scenic slow ride from Museum Plaza through downtown Pensacola before returning to Museum Plaza. Friends & family can enjoy the post Ride celebration with music, games, and food trucks! Proceeds raised will be used to purchase new bikes and helmets for children in need in the Northwest Florida area. Find us on Facebook. 850-485-1889 onbikespensacola@gmail.com www.onbikespensacola.org

Choral Society of Pensacola’s Tis the Season Sing Along December 16, 2018 @ Rex Theatre 18 North Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join us at 5:00pm to sing favorite carols and songs, followed by hot chocolate and cookies.

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We’ll take a break to hear a couple of numbers from our women’s ensemble, plus special guests from The Pensacola Homeschool Choir and Pensacappella. All ages are welcome and Admission is free. Donate a non-perishable food item for the folks at Manna who provide those in need healthy food options. Bring your phone for selfies with Santa! 850-484-1806 www.choralsocietyofpensacola.org/

Gum Drop Bridge to the North Pole

December 16, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 The Pensacola Bay Bridge Replacement Project will introduce children to the art of bridge building in this fun and festive event! Children will learn, hands-on, as they build their own Gum Drop Bridge to the North Pole! 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Straight outta Bethlehem Musical

December 16, 2018 @ Marcus Pointe Baptist 6205 North W Street Pensacola, FL 32514 Join us for this fun night of music beginning at 6:00pm. Celebrate the Christmas season with our 1st - 5th grade kids of Marcus Pointe! This program is free. 850-479-8337 info@marcuspointebaptist.org www.PensacolaChurch.org

Make it to the Line 4-Mile Run/Walk & 1-Mile Fun Run December 29, 2018 @ The Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Run, jog, walk or crawl to the line at our 4-mile run/walk and 1-mile fun run at 10am. 850-492-0611 info@florabama.com

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration!

December 31, 2018 @ Lulu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 The Family friendly NOON Year’s Eve Celebration at LuLu’s starts at 10:00AM! Noon Year’s is a FREE family event for all ages to enjoy. We will have kid friendly activities, a massive beach ball drop when the clock strikes NOON! See you there! 251-967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Winterfest - Grinch Tour (mini tour)

December 17 - 23, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia St Pensacola, FL 32502 Spread the Who-liday cheer on this 20-minute trolley ride around Downtown Pensacola with everyone’s favorite Whoville gang! Play with The Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2. Sing with Mayor Maywho and little Cindy Lou! But you’d better watch out for the Grinch! Come dressed in your festive-best for a chance to win free tickets for the Winterfest Express Train from 5-8pm. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Winterfest - Polar Express Tour (mini tour)

December 17 - 24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia St Pensacola, FL 32502 All aboard the Polar Express from 5-8pm! On this magical journey to the North Pole, the Conductor will read this classic children’s book as the story comes to life in front of you. Children may dress in pajamas for a chance to receive 2 free tickets to the Winterfest Express Train. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Winterfest-Scrooge Tour (mini tour)

December 17 - 24, 2018 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 On these evenings, you will be visited by three spirits! Celebrate Christmases of past, present, and future on the new Scrooge mini tours! This 20 minute trolley ride will bring Charles Dickens’s Christmas Carol to life in the historic district of Downtown Pensacola. from 12:152:45pm. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Ballet Pensacola Presents: The Nutcracker

December 21 - 23, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Experience the magic of the beloved holiday classic The Nutcracker. December 21st & 22nd performances at 7:00pm. December 23rd performance at 1:30pm. Visit the Saenger Theater website to purchase tickets. 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

Christmas Tree FarmWhispering Pines Tree Farm

TBA @ Milton 1603 Penton Road Milton, FL 32570 Virginia Pine, Florida Pine, Cedar, and Leyland Cypress Christmas trees. We are open Fridays Sunday from 10:00am – 5:00pm. After Dec. 17th, please call Mike to make sure staff is available to help you. 850-304-1559 info@floridachristmastree.com www.floridachristmastree.com/ GPP

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What Teens Really Think About Their Social Media Lives

Managing devices is hit or miss. Many turn off, silence, or put away their phones at key times such as when going to sleep, having meals with people, visiting family, or doing homework. But many others do not: A significant number of teens say they “hardly ever” or “never” silence or put away their devices. • What you can do. If your teen is the kind who can manage their own use, keep encouraging them. If not, set specific screen rules for around the house. Establish screen-free times (such as during homework) and areas (such as the bedroom). Have devicefree-dinner nights -- and make sure to follow the rules yourself.

What teenagers look like they’re doing and what they’re actually doing can be two totally different things -- especially when it comes to social media. A bored-looking ninth-grader could be majorly bonding with her new BFF on Snapchat. A 10th-grade gamer may complain loudly when you cut off his internet, but be secretly relieved. An awkward eighth-grader may be YouTube’s hottest star. To find out what’s really going on in teens’ social media lives, we polled more than 1,100 13- to 17-year-olds. The new study updates our 2012 study on teens and social media with surprising new findings that address many of parents’ most pressing concerns about issues such as cyberbullying, depression, and even the popularity of Facebook (spoiler alert: It’s not). Why now? Today, 89 percent of teens have their own smartphones (compared with 41 percent in 2012). They grew up right alongside Instagram and Snapchat. They do research papers on Google Classroom, find emotional support on teen forums, share poetry on Tumblr, and are more likely to text “I love you” before they’d ever say it to your face. But concerns over the negative consequences of social media have grown in tandem with its popularity among teens. Grim reports on teen suicide, addiction, cyberbullying, and eroding social skills have caused many people, from parents to teachers to the tech industry itself, to look at social media as a potential contributor -- if not the cause -- of these issues. This survey clarifies some of those concerns and draws attention to the reasons some kids are deeply affected by -- and connected to -- their digital worlds. Here are some of the key findings from the report, what they mean for you and your teen, and what you can do.

Snapchat and Instagram are where it’s at. In 2012 Facebook utterly dominated social networking use among teens. Today, only 15 percent say it’s their main site. • What you can do. Familiarize yourself with your teen’s favorite social media by reading reviews or downloading it yourself and playing around with it. Friend your teen and make time for regular check-ins when you can ask what’s new on Snapchat and Insta and share your feeds with them. Less talking, more texting. In 2012, about half of all teens still said their favorite way to communicate with friends was in person; today less than a third say so. But more than half of all teens say that social media takes them away from personal relationships and distracts them from paying attention to the people they’re with. • What you can do. This is where your guidance and rolemodeling of healthy online habits is really important. Put down your own phone (better yet, set it to Do Not Disturb) when you’re with your kids. Encourage them to be more self-aware about their device use, especially when they come away from interactions feeling like they were distracted. And if you think they need a break, prompt them to go phone-free for a while. Exposure to hate speech in on the rise, while cyberbullying is less common. Only 13 percent of teens report ever being cyberbullied. But nearly two-thirds say they often or sometimes come across racist, sexist, homophobic, or religious-based hate content in social media. • What you can do. Talk to your kid about being a force for good on the internet. Explain that it reflects poorly on them if they like, share, or otherwise support messages of hate -- even as a joke. If your kid knows the person spewing hate speech, then encourage them to block, report, or simply unfriend that person. Practice how to disagree with people respectfully and constructively. Encourage them to stand up for people who’ve been denigrated -- without getting into an ugly flame war.

They can’t stop. They won’t stop. Seventy percent of teens use social media more than once a day (compared to 34 percent in 2012). Interestingly, most teens think technology companies manipulate users to spend more time on their devices. Many of them also think that social media distracts them and and their friends. • What you can do. They know it’s getting in the way of important things, but they have a hard time regulating their own use. So, help them! Encourage them to be mindful of how they feel before, during, and after a social media session. If a certain friend or topic bugs them or brings them down, they can block that person or mute the thread. Challenge them to do a task with focused concentration and without getting distracted for longer and longer periods. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

10 Steps Towards Maturing Teen Boys Fifteen is the age when a boy moves into manhood while still holding on to the boyish ways of childhood. It is a time when parents need to be extra vigilant to help him make it through the transition smoothly, and therefore not get stuck at this stage for several years. Age 15 is when the your son’s thoughts and his expectations crash like ocean waves amidst a sea of change. It’s the end of one tide and the beginning of another. At the very least, it’s an awkward season. Increased hormones, growth spurts, voice changes, muscles, and moving from concrete to abstract thinking all tend to make a young man feel a jumble of both invincibility and vulnerability. And as a first step toward making up his own mind about life, everything you’ve taught him will be questioned. This is a “convenient” time for a mom and dad to detach and drift alongside their teen as he is busier with extra-curricular activities at school and spends more time away from home. But this is no time for parents to back off. It is a critical and pivotal point of time where a parent can steer a son away from childish thinking and move him toward more mature thinking. Your son needs to learn from you how to be respectful during a conflict, to be honest in the face of confusion, and to remain obedient in times of disagreement. It’s a time for some serious character-building. Sailing these waters can be a tough time for parents… but more than ever it is the right time to be available and to be firm. So how do you go about making a smooth transition? First, determine the “state of your child.” If things are already getting strained in your relationship, move toward them out of compassion, not frustration. Approach the harshest situations with humility, but carry a big stick. I don’t mean a big stick in relation to punishment, but I’m referring to your

authority as a parent to set the agenda and to say “No” when you need to. Parents today strive to be a friend of their children more than a parent. But as most soon find out at about age 15 when conflict erupts, they’ll wish that they had more of a “parent role” than a “friend role.” I’m here to tell you from years of experience that it is never too late to jump into the parental role, and trust me; there will never be a better time for boys than at age 15. If you’re seeing behavioral problems, it is important for your son to know that you will stop at nothing to change the inappropriate direction he is headed. If you don’t know what to do, find help from others who have been there. Or, contact our on-call coaches for more help. Just call our Family Crisis Helpline at 866-700-3264 or visit www.heartlightministries. org/crisiscoaching for more information about that service. A parent will do well to start with the following list to-do’s beginning on your son’s 15th birthday: 1. Ask your son to begin making more of his own decisions. “Where should we go to eat tonight? What would be good for us to do on our vacation? What movie should we get this Friday? What charities do you think would be good to support?” 2. Ask for his input or point of view. How would you respond in this situation? How would you discipline differently? What you do think about what’s happening at school? 3. Give him an opportunity to respond correctly. He may not respond to your giving him more responsibility appropriately at first. So give him another opportunity to get it right. Display empathy rather than judgment. The way you go about it is sometimes more important than the message itself. Remember, a gentle answer turns away wrath. How you respond to him will determine how he will respond to you. 4. Set clear boundaries. In times of trouble, don’t move away from your child, 37

move toward him. Immaturity demands that you place boundaries around his inappropriate behavior. You may be thinking, “Well, you don’t know my kid and how he mistreats me.” I admit, I don’t. However, I do know that if you do nothing to rein in the bad behavior you see in your 15-year-old son, it’s only going to get worse, not better. 5. Help your son learn how to say “No” by honoring it when he says “No.” This is another boundary issue. Honoring his boundaries will help him learn to honor others’ boundaries. 6. Admit when you are wrong. Admitting when you are wrong will help your son understand that everyone makes mistakes, and models how to behave when mistakes happen. 7. Shift control before you think he is ready for it. Yes, he will blow it, but he will also learn some valuable lessons from doing so, but only when you… (see number 8). 8. Force him to take responsibility for his decisions. Don’t say, “I told you so,” or, “I should have made that decision instead.” Allow him to figure out what he should have done instead, and force him to own up to the consequences of his choices. 9. Encourage him in his good decisions. Point your comments toward his successes, not his failures. 10. When your son responds with maturity and responsibility, then move him up to the next level. Expand the limit and expectations and expect him to meet new requirements. For instance: “Honey, I think it’s great that you have a job now. If you are willing to save your money, I will match it and help you buy your first car.” I encourage you to take advantage of this time to help your son make a strong transition to the smoother waters of responsible adulthood. Thankfully, he won’t be 15 forever. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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As Thanksgiving approaches it is nice to reflect on and appreciate our blessings. In our family, each member writes down

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something they are thankful for on Thanksgiving Day and we read them aloud at Thanksgiving dinner. This is a fun exercise that teaches our children to show gratitude for things otherwise taken for granted. We enjoy that daily pause to remember what we are grateful for; but, what about every other day of the year? How do we teach our kids to be grateful all year long? Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

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Model gratefulness

The easiest and most effective way to start teaching your children gratitude is to model it yourself. Let your children hear you talk about the things you are thankful for. “I am so grateful for this beautiful day today so that we can go to the park,” or “I am so thankful for a great job to pay for our home and our food.” You can also do as we have on Thanksgiving Day and go around the table at dinner and name something you are thankful for any night of the year. When kids acknowledge the blessings they have in their lives, they will begin to take note and appreciate them.

Serve as a family

Families who do service projects together tend to be families who appreciate what they have more. When children see that some are less fortunate, they will develop a desire to help others and make a difference. Not only do they become more aware of others and the blessings in their own lives, but they are more likely to give of their time and treasures for a lifetime.

Teach them to say thank you

From a young age, teach children to say thank you. Encourage kids to say thank you for any acts of service or gifts. Even toddlers can be taught to sign “Thank you”. Writing thank you notes is a great way to provide kids the opportunity to thank someone for the gifts they receive and the time it took to purchase them. Encourage a “It’s the thought that counts” policy and explain that it isn’t the actual gift itself but the thought behind the purchase that we are grateful for.

Take care of property

Teach kids the value of their property by showing them the importance of caring for their belongings. Clothes cost money so they should not be on the floor in piles. Toys cost money so if one is broken due to misuse, do not rush to replace it.

Just say no

It isn’t healthy to say yes to every

request your child has. An answer of “no” or “not right now” teaches children both the value of delayed gratification and encourages gratefulness for occasional treats. If a child is allowed to purchase a toy every time he visits the store, this will become expected. If the toy is purchased as a special reward or with their own money, the child will appreciate it much more.

Teach them the cost of things

Parents know everything costs money and it adds up fast. Allow your child to come along to the grocery store and have them help you find the best deal on food they would like to purchase, or allow them to bring their own allowance and purchase something they would like. Point out how much it costs when you go out to eat as a family or make a large purchase of groceries or other items the family needs. Take care to avoid blaming or anger when discussing the cost of items and use the opportunity to teach. When children understand the true cost of items, they 39

are more likely to appreciate the purchase in the first place.

Give them chores

When children have chores and responsibilities to their family, they begin to understand how much work goes into cleaning, yard work, or other household tasks. Some families may choose to give an allowance for tasks completed which can help kids learn to budget and understand the value of hard work, and in turn, develop gratitude for the work that others do. The main thing to remember as you encourage gratefulness in children is to model the behavior. Thank them for their hard work, acknowledge and thank others for their acts of service, help kids understand the value of items, and give them responsibilities that teach them hard work. We don’t have to eat turkey every day to be thankful for the blessings that surround us all year. GPP Sarah Lyons is a wife and stay at home mom of six children, including two year old triplets. She writes from her home in Kansas City.

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FamilyCalendar Friday, October 26

Ballet Pensacola Presents A Nightmare Before Christmas 7:30 p.m. performance. Pensacola Little Theatre. Will Christmas be the same with a pumpkin king in charge? A Nightmare Before Christmas continues Ballet Pensacola’s tradition of creating captivating and unconventional ballets. For tickets or more info, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/. Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 7:35 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Hero and princess night vs. Huntsville Havoc. For tickets or more info, call (800) 745-3000 or visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/. Boo Dash 0.5K - The NOT So Scary Run 5:30 p.m. Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium. A paying adult can register up to 2 kids under 11 for free. $20 registration (plus processing) through 10/25 at midnight; $25 registration (plus processing) after that date. Support Chain Reaction and the leadership development of local teenagers! Following your 0.5K run or walk, you’ll get entry into the post-race festival at the Blue Wahoos Stadium which includes drink and food tickets, face painting, games, and field goal kicking. Additionally, you’ll have free access to Wahooloween, a trick-or-treating event on the stadium concourse. Wear your favorite costume, get ready to run, and enjoy some food, drinks and candy. For more info, visit https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information. php?event_id=130650 or call (850) 934-8444. Pensacola Interstate Fair Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway. Through October 28. Hours of operation vary from day to day. Please check the daily schedule to see opening and closing times for each day. For more info, call (850) 944-4500.

Saturday, October 27

Ballet Pensacola Presents A Nightmare Before Christmas 7:30 p.m. performance. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see October 26 listing. Pensacola Bay Center Presents The Newsboys 6 p.m. For groups of 10 or more, please contact Anthony Mendoza at (850) 432-0800 ext. 231 or send an email to amendoza@smgpcola.com. Get one free ticket with every 10 tickets you purchase for your group. For all other tickets or more info, call (800) 745-3000 or visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/. Pet Partners: Read With Me 10 a.m.-noon. Tryon Branch Library, 1200 Langley Ave., Pensacola. School-aged children are invited to register for a 15-minute session to pick a book and read to one of the therapy dogs. Dogs and handlers are coordinated through Pet Partners and Cherry Point Dog Training, Inc. Preregistration is requested. For more info, call (850) 471-6980. Pensacola Interstate Fair Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway. For details, see October 26 listing. Halloween Egg Haunt 5:30 - 8 p.m. Roger Scott Athletic Complex, 2130 Summit Blvd., Pensacola. Admission is FREE! We ask for donations of a non-perishable food item to the onsite MANNA food drive. There will be five egg haunts for children who are stroller age up to 13 years, fun games, PNJ Costume Contest and selfie photo booth,

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

a haunted hayride, and bounce houses. For more info, call (850) 912-4056 or visit www.cityofpensacola. com/2228/Halloween-Egg-Haunt.

$20. For more info, call (850) 436-5195 or visit www. cityofpensacola.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/FrickerResource-Center-94.

Spooktacular: A Low Sensory Halloween Party! 4-7 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S Jefferson St. Individuals on the autism apectrum are invited to participate in our third annual low sensory Halloween Party. This year we will feature interactive carnivalthemed games including a potion-making booth, Pass the Pumpkin, paint tattoos, Frankenstein’s nose surprise and more! Come dressed in costume and bring a bag. Enjoy games, art and light refreshments. Each station will have prizes and candy. All ages welcome! $5 for children over 3, free for accompanying adults. Purchase tickets here. For more info, visit pensacolamuseum.org or call (850) 432-6247.

Tuesday, October 30

It Happened One Night at the Molino Library 6 p.m. 6450-A Highway 95A, Molino. Come dressed in your favorite costume. Trick-or-treat through the library and tour the Spooky Museum, if you dare! For more info, call (850) 435-1760. Barktoberfest 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street. 10,000+ area animal lovers will converge on Community Maritime Park for one of Pensacola’s most beloved events. Yard Sale at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church 7 a.m.-noon. 850 North Blue Angel Parkway, Pensacola. Sale items include holiday decorations, toys, housewares and linens, kitchen utensils and small appliances, electronics, glassware and dishes, books and tapes as well as various collectibles and treasures. Enjoy early morning sausage and biscuits and coffee as well as homemade cakes, for a small donation. Sale starts at 7:00 a.m. and ends at 12:00 p.m. Don’t be late! For more info, e-mail info@holytrinitypensacola.org. 2018 Boo at the Gulf Breeze Zoo 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Kids ages 12 and under are encouraged to wear (non-scary) costumes and adults ages 18 and older may not wear masks that cover the face. Boo at the Zoo admission includes the Trick-or-Treat Trail for kids ages 12 and younger, Bounce Houses, Creepy Crawly Critter Touch Station, Animal Encounters, and Face Painting and Balloon creations. Train ride tickets can be purchased in advance with event tickets or are available for $4 each the day of the event. We highly recommend that you pre-purchase your event tickets at www.gulfbreezezoo.org/ or call (850) 932-2229.

Sunday, October 28

Ballet Pensacola Presents A Nightmare Before Christmas 2:30 p.m. performance. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see October 26 listing. 2018 Boo at the Gulf Breeze Zoo 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For details, see October 27 listing. Pensacola Interstate Fair Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway. For details, see October 26 listing.

Monday, October 29

Co-ed Basketball Bootcamp 6-8 p.m. Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola. Children ages 4 to 7 begin camp at 6 p.m. Children ages 8 to 10 begin camp at 7 p.m. The fee for residents of Pensacola is $10 and for non-residents it is

Halloween Night Guessing Game 4-6 p.m. Tryon Branch Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Drop by the library anytime between 4 and 6 to guess what is in the box. Every guesser wins a treat. Costumes are a treat for us, so feel free to show up in your get-up! For more info, call (850) 471-6980. Youth Basketball Camp 3:30-5:30 p.m. E.S. Cobb Resource Center, 601 East Mallory Street, Pensacola. Children ages 5 to 12 years old learn the fundamentals of basketball. Registration starts September 3 and costs $20. For more info, call (850) 436-5192 or visit www.cityofpensacola.com/ Facilities/Facility/Details/ES-Cobb-Resource-Center-93. Boys/Girls Basketball Bootcamp 6-8 p.m. Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola. For boys and girls ages 11 through 14. Girls’ group will begin at 6 p.m. and the boys’ group will start at 7 p.m. There is a one-time $10 fee for residents and a one-time $20 fee for non-residents. For more info, call (850) 436-5195 or visit www.cityofpensacola.com/ Facilities/Facility/Details/Fricker-Resource-Center-94. 2018 Bands on the Beach 7-9 p.m. Free concert organized by the Santa Rosa Island Authority and located at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. Pets and glass are prohibited. Tonight’s band is Emerald Coast Blues Brothers. For more info, call (850) 932-2257, visit www. visitpensacolabeach.com or tune to Cat Country 98.7. Blue Angels Practice 11:30 a.m. National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. FREE. Call (850) 452-3604 or visit www.navalaviationmuseum.org/ for more info.

Thursday, November 1

Blue Angels Practice 11:30 a.m. National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. FREE. For details, see October 30 listing. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Desire Desire Desire/ For Whom The Southern Belle Tolls 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre’s Foo-Foo Festival entry this year is a night of hilarious one-acts by Christopher Durang. A set of Tennessee Williams parodies (A Streetcar Named Desire, The Glass Menagerie): Blanche DuBois, her nerves shot, is stuck in a house with a sloppy Stanley Kowalski, who keeps yelling “Stella!” Stella left for a lemon Coke 6 years ago and never returned; the fading Southern belle, Amanda, tries to prepare her hyper-sensitive, hypochondriac son, Lawrence, for “the feminine caller,” but he’d rather play with his collection of glass cocktail stirrers. If you enjoy Tennessee Williams or just a great laugh, don’t miss this! For tickets or more info, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/. WUWF’s RadioLive Concert Series 5 p.m. Museum of Commerce, 201 East Zaragoza Street. Our featured artists are Malcolm Holcombe, Patchouli, and Smokey Joe Peoples. Tickets are $10 and available in advance at radiolive.org or at the door on the day of the show. Doors open at 5 p.m.; show starts promptly at 6 p.m. For more info, visit wuwf.org/ radiolive or call (850) 473-7433. Pensacola Bay Center Presents Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. When magician extraordinaire Justin visits Sesame Street to put on a magic show

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FamilyCalendar for the whole neighborhood, Elmo wants to be a part of the big event. He teams up with Abby and Justin, embarking on an amazing journey where Elmo will discover the “power of yet” -the lesson that with perseverance and practice, nothing can stand between you and your dream. Along the way, Elmo and Abby, joined by their friends Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Grover, Rosita and Count von Count, discover the many magical moments in everyday life. For tickets or more info, call (800) 745-3000 or visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/. Foo Foo Fest A 12-day celebration through November 12, of existing and new culturally creative happenings, events and moments under one banner, attracting visitors to beautiful Pensacola. Foo Foo Fest is big fun, with events of high artistic and cultural caliber, delivered with a hefty dose of Southern sophistication. For more info, call (404) 218-6578 visit www.foofoofest.com/.

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Big Lagoon Fall Concert Series 6 p.m. Big Lagoon State Park Amphitheater, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. This month features the sounds of Julie Patchouli & Terra Guitarra. Wine and beer will be for sale during the event with snacks offered. Very limited seating to this event. For more info, call (850) 867-5873 or visit www.biglagoonstatepark. com/. Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show Gates open each day at 8 a.m.; shows begin at 9 a.m. Pensacola Naval Air Station. Presented by Pensacola’s Kia Autosport, the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is the flourish on an exciting air show season. The Kids’ Zone is packed with activities for kids of all ages, including an inflatable obstacle course, Spider Mountain, bounce houses and much more. For more info, visit www.naspensacolaairshow.com/ or call (850) 452-3806. Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 7:35 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Toy night vs. Huntsville Havoc. For details, see October 26 listing. Pensacola Museum of Art’s Art Academy for Autism: Adult 4-5:30 p.m. Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for those on the autism spectrum. Our program focuses on nurturing artistic development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Our art educators believe that self expression can help students build personal connections, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and learn a wide variety of artistic skills. Free program, sponsored in part by Autism Pensacola. For more info, visit pensacolamuseum.org or call (850) 432-6247. Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Seville Square Park, 311 E Government St., Pensacola. The three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen and other artists. The event features live musicians in Fountain Park with sounds ranging from Zydeco, bluegrass, jazz and blues to classical. Local dance schools and groups perform daily. Free & open to the public; pets are not

permitted. For more info, call (850) 434-1234 or visit http://www.ggaf.org/. Preschool Art Time: Watercolor Textures and Patterns 10-11 a.m. Pensacola Museum of Art. First and third Fridays for ages 2-5 years old with caregiver. Join the Art Studio as artists experiment with various watercolor methods in the creation of an abstract piece of art. Cost: $6/members and $8/non-members, per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum.org/ or call (850) 432-6247. The Pensacola Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Gulf Coast Kid’s House. Meets the 1st Friday of every month. Program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit https:// powerfulwomengulfcoast.com/event/pensacola-pwgcmeeting/ or call (850) 529-0908.

Saturday, November 3

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Desire Desire Desire/ For Whom The Southern Belle Tolls 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre’s Foo-Foo Festival entry this year is a night of hilarious one-acts by Christopher Durang. For details, see November 1 listing. Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show Gates open each day at 8 a.m.; shows begin at 9 a.m. For details, see November 2 listing. Children’s Workshop: The Gullah Experience with Aunt Pearlie Sue 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Ebonwood Community Center, 3511 W Scott St., Pensacola. Storyteller, Anita Prather, better known as Aunt Pearlie Sue, invites children of all ages to participate in experiencing the Gullah folk traditions. Through oral stories, arts and crafts, and interactive presentations, Aunt Pearlie Sue is sure to educate and entertain! For more info, call (850) 595-3032 or visit hwww.foofoofest.com/. Beulah Craft and Sausage Festival 9 a.m.-3 p.m. First Baptist Church of Beulah, 5805 Beulah Church Rd., Pensacola. FREE admission. Handmade arts and crafts, live music, bake sale, Beulah sausage dogs. For more info, call (850) 944-2143. Pensacola Museum of Art’s Art Academy for Autism: Youth 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for ages 5-9; 1:30-3 p.m. for ages 10-13. Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and adults on the autism spectrum. Our program focuses on nurturing artistic development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Our art educators believe that self expression can help students build personal connections, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and learn a wide variety of artistic skills. Free program, sponsored in part by Autism Pensacola. For more info, visit pensacolamuseum.org or call (850) 432-6247. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Mozart & Brahms 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place. Highlighting the lighter side of the repertoire, this concert features the care-free, nostalgic Emperor Waltzes by Johann Strauss and Brahms’ Serenade No. 1. Pianist Alon Goldstein joins the orchestra for Mozart’s beloved Piano Concerto No. 21. For tickets or more info, call (850) 435-2533 or visit www.pensacolasymphony.com/. Pensacola Bay Center Presents Jake Owen 7 p.m. Special guests include David Lee Murphy and Morgan Wallen. For tickets or more info, call (800) 7453000 or visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/.

Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Seville Square Park, 311 E Government St., Pensacola. Children’s Festival: Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For details, see November 2 listing. Pawdido Key Community Adoption Event 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Perdido Key Visitor Information Center, 15500 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola. Visit the Pensacola Humane Society to see the adoptable dogs, kittens, and cats that are for adoption and looking for a new place to call home. If you can’t adopt a pet this day, consider bringing a donation from the Humane Society’s wish list to help make a difference! For more info, visit www. pensacolahumane.org/ or call (850) 602-9279. Pensacola MESS Hall’s Science on the Street Through November 12, the Pensacola MESS Hall presents Science on the Street’s Illusions, a mix of large exhibits and small activities grouped in the block from Government to Intendencia. In addition to the exhibits, available for the duration of the Foo Foo Festival, there will be interactive programs including scientists demonstrating illusions and allowing visitors to create their own. For more info, call (877) 937-6377 or visit www. pensacolamesshall.org/.

Sunday, November 4

Monday, November 5

Co-ed Basketball Bootcamp 6-8 p.m. Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola. For details, see October 29 listing. Pensacola Bay Concert Band “Across America” 7:30-9 p.m. Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Concert will focus on patriotism and Americana. B.T. Washington High School’s NJROTC program will open the concert with the presentation of the colors, followed by the band playing the national anthem. Music representing various regions of our country (the South, the Northeast, the West, the Southeast, the Southwest and the Midwest) will be presented with corresponding visual images and scenes of each region. For more info, call (850) 4841200 or visit https://pbcband.org/. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac at Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. Performing the legendary Rumours album note-for-note and in its entirety... plus much much more! Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, the world’s finest tribute to Fleetwood Mac, comes to North America for the very first time in 2018 with a brand-new show celebrating 40 years of the iconic Rumours album.

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FamilyCalendar For more info or tickets, visit www.pensacolasaenger. com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Cat’s Seed to Table Cooking Class 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Join our gardener Cat McCreery for a cooking class featuring fresh harvest from our community garden. At the end of class, you can tour of our community garden, all of which Cat herself has grown from seeds. This cooking demonstration is free and participants will be able to try various samples during this class. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Pensacola Little Theatre Raffle Benefit 2018 5:30-7:30 p.m. Food, drinks and live auction! Grand Prize is a trip for two to beautiful Napa Valley or $4,000 cash. $50 per entry. Attendance not necessary to win. Proceeds benefit the children’s education programs at Pensacola Little Theatre. For more info, call (850) 4322042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/.

Tuesday, November 6

Boys/Girls Basketball Bootcamp 6-8 p.m. Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola. For details, see October 30 listing.

Wednesday, November 7

Ace Frehley at Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. Ace’s work as lead guitarist and as a songwriter for KISS helped turn the band into one of rock’s hottest phenomena, with a string of hit albums, sold-out shows rarely matched in rock history. Now, Frehley has returned with a new record that pays tribute to Hendrix and other legendary artists who inspired him to begin his own musical journey with powerful, energetic covers of songs like Jimi’s “Spanish Castle Magic” and Led Zeppelin’s “Bring it on Home.” For more info or tickets, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880.

Thursday, November 8

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

3363 West Park Place, Pensacola. UF/IFAS Escambia County Extension hosts this educational series the 2nd Thursday of every month. Tonight’s topic is “Bayou Chico Managed Aquatic Plant System & Beyond,” presented by Dana Morton and Brent Wipf, Escambia County. Each session is free to the public. For more info, contact Carrie at ctsteven@ufl.edu or call (850) 475-5230. Kickoff for 34th Annual Frank Brown Songwriters Festival Various venues on Perdido Key. The granddaddy of Gulf Coast songwriters festivals with more than 200 Grammy award-winning songwriters and up-and-coming stars heading to the key to perform their original songs and talk about the stories behind the music. Enjoy miles of powder-sand beaches, legendary seafood and, 11 days of unforgettable music. Admission: Free at most venues, small cover at others. For more info, call (850) 492-7664 or visit http://frankbrownsongwriters.com/. Cubed Luminous Church St., between Jefferson and Tarragona Streets. CUBED Luminous is a 4-day and night outdoor live digital art festival featuring a towering 18 ft. LED cube and 16 laser projectors illuminating the original murals of 16 artists—in real time, as they are being painted onto each side of four 8 x 8 ft cubes. From daylight into dark, watch the artists at work, enjoy live music and DJ sets, have lunch or dinner at the food trucks and stroll through the Makers City Marketplace. It’s all happening as part of the Pensacola Foo Foo Festival. Find out more at www.cubedgulfcoast.com. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents See the Music, Hear the Dance 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Cultural Center, 400 S. Jefferson Street. Featuring Ballet Pensacola’s dancers joined onstage by a septet of PSO musicians, See the Music, Hear the Dance includes landmark Impressionist works from renowned French composers, including Maurice Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro. Carrying the French tradition forward is Golden Fish Under the Arched Bridge by a living American composer, Michael Senturia. For tickets or more info, call (850) 435-2533 or visit www.pensacolasymphony.com/. Pensacola Futures Championship Through November 18. Pensacola Sports partners with the USTA to host at Roger Scott Tennis Center. This USTA Pro-Circuit event features a wild card tournament, a qualifying tournament, and a main draw tournament. The entire event is free for spectators. For more info, call (850) 776-7951 visit https://pensacolasports.org/pensacolafutures/.

Friday, November 9

The Wright Brothers: Those Daring Young Men & Their Flying Machine! 6:30 p.m. Presented by the Foo Foo Festival and the Pensacola Opera, this musical biography geared toward young audiences follows the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright – America’s pioneers of aviation. With courage, ingenuity and determination, they make their dream of flying come true! Recommended for 2nd grade and up as well as family audiences of all ages. For tickets or more info, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/. Cordova Mall Presents Santa’s Arrival 6-8 p.m. Front of Cordova Mall. Face painting, entertainment and more! Cubed Luminous Church St., between Jefferson and Tarragona Streets. For details, see November 8 listing. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Desire Desire Desire/ For Whom The Southern Belle Tolls 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre’s Foo-Foo Festival

entry this year is a night of hilarious one-acts by Christopher Durang. For details, see November 1 listing. Nightmare Theatre Screening & Launch 6-9 p.m. WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Free launch party includes a movie memorabilia exhibit from the Merrill Movie Museum, costume contest and film screening of Plan 9 From Outer Space. Register at wsre.org/nightmaretheatre. For more info, call (850) 484-1211

Saturday, November 10

The Wright Brothers: Those Daring Young Men & Their Flying Machine! 1 p.m. Presented by the Foo Foo Festival and the Pensacola Opera, this musical biography geared toward young audiences follows the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright – America’s pioneers of aviation. For details, see November 9 listing. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 1 p.m. Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. We will celebrate the release of the second movie in this series with related games, a green-screen photo-op, crafts, and treats. Come dressed as your favorite character if you wish. All materials provided. For more info, call (850) 436-5060. Curiosity Day: Dig In 1-4 p.m. Pensacola M.E.S.S. Hall, 116 N. Tarragona Street. Special activities and demonstrations will engage visitors in learning about the earth–explore rocks, the layers of the earth, and other hands-on fun! Reserve your spot in our ever-popular Fossil Hunt. Program is included with admission and is geared toward visitors ages 6 and up. For more info, call (877) 937-6377 or visit www.pensacolamesshall.org/. Cubed Luminous Church St., between Jefferson and Tarragona Streets. For details, see November 8 listing. Natural Healing/ Cancer Study 2-4 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 315 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. FREE. A group that studies the illness of cancer. Presentations are done through DVDs or by live speakers who share personal insights and experiences. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/.

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Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Veterans appreciation vs. Huntsville Havoc. For details, see October 26 listing. Open Studio: Collage with Landscapes/ Cityscapes 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art. Free for PMA members and $6 for non-members. Drop in anytime from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. All ages welcome! Register online at www.pensacolamuseum.org/ or call (850) 432-6247. Pine Forest United Methodist Church 29th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 2800 Wilde Lake Blvd., Pensacola. The day features more than 180 arts, crafts & other vendors, food, and live music. Free admission. Free parking. Door prizes. Proceeds used for community ministries. For more info, visit www.pineforestumc.org or call (850) 944-0170. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Desire Desire Desire/ For Whom The Southern Belle Tolls 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre’s Foo-Foo Festival entry this year is a night of hilarious one-acts by Christopher Durang. For details, see November 1 listing.

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The Pensacola Civic Band Presents: On Air With Doc Severinsen at Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. Join the Pensacola Civic Band as we welcome the legendary bandleader and trumpeter, Doc Severinsen. We also welcome Cathy Leach, Professor of Trumpet at the University of Tennessee, to perform with Doc Severinsen. For more info or tickets, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Market Basket – Enchanted Evergreen 10 a.m.-5 p.m. De Luna Winery, 116 E. Gonzales Street, Pensacola. Join us this year for two days of holiday shopping from local vendors and artisans with an intimate, upscale tasting experience. This year’s Market Basket is an exciting fundraiser complete with food samplings from area chefs, home goods, and personal accessories for those with discerning tastes. For more info, visit PensacolaMarketBasket.com or call (850) 433-4421. Kids’ Corner at Foo Foo Fest Noon-5 p.m. Belmont Cultural Center, 432 West Belmont Street, Pensacola. This is a family-friendly, kid-friendly interactive art performance area for kids to enjoy the Imagination Station, arts & crafts, facepainting, hula-hoop, jump rope, and various children’s games. For more info, call (404) 218-6578 visit www. foofoofest.com/. Walking Cemetery Tour 4:30-5:30 p.m. St. John’s Historic Cemetery, 301 N. ‘G’ Street, Pensacola. Go Retro has teamed with Friends of St. John’s Cemetery Foundation to offer this fascinating walking tour of Pensacola’s largest historic cemetery. With graves dated back to the early 19th century, there are several stories to share. Some are chilling. Some will cause you to contemplate your own death. This tour is very entertaining and is the perfect way to experience the cemetery prior to dusk. For more info, call (850) 466-5220 or visit http://goretro.us/Tour/ Walking_Cemetery_Tour_.

Sunday, November 11

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Desire Desire Desire/ For Whom The Southern Belle Tolls 3 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre’s Foo-Foo Festival entry this year is a night of hilarious one-acts by Christopher Durang. For details, see November 1 listing. 14th Annual Pensacola Marathon and Half 6:30 a.m. Veteran’s Memorial Park, 200 S 10th Avenue, Pensacola. The finish line for both races will be near the intersection of 10th Ave and Romana St., next to the Vietnam Wall Memorial. The half marathon utilizes much of the same course as the full, so the entire course closes at 12:30 p.m. For more info, call (850) 434-2800 or visit http://pensacolasports.org/pensacolamarathon. Cubed Luminous Church St., between Jefferson and Tarragona Streets. For details, see November 8 listing. Early Music Festival Concert 3-5 p.m. St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 3200 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola. This event is the culmination of Early Music Weekend which draws participants from all over the southeastern United States. On stage there will be a full Renaissance orchestra including the full family of recorders (3 that are over 6 feet tall!), a full viol section, a vocal choir, sackbuts, crumhorns, guitar/ lutes, percussion, and harpsichord. A reception will follow the concert. For more info, call (850) 433-0074 or visit https://www.scpen.org/.

Market Basket – Enchanted Evergreen 10 a.m.-5 p.m. De Luna Winery, 116 E. Gonzales Street, Pensacola. For details, see November 10 listing.

which introduced the distinctive Mannheim sound to all of America. For more info or tickets, visit www. pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880.

Jazz For Justice 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Seville Quarter Party Plaza, 130 East Government Street, Pensacola. This event features national recording artist Eric Lindell, KC and the Irresistibles, Big Daddy and Red Hot Java and Chris Godber. The 4th Annual Jazz for Justice begins with a jazz brunch and closes with Lindell headlining an amazing lineup of performances to raise funds for free civil legal aid to Pensacola’s most vulnerable citizens. Admission is free. Visit www.jazzforjustice.org or call (850) 701-3313 for more info.

Thursday, November 15

Pensacola Civic Band Salute to Veterans Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola has a rich history when it comes to our military. We are honored to be the Cradle of Naval Aviation as well as the home of the Blue Angels Flight Squadron. This Veteran’s day, in partnership with the FooFoo Festival, we would like to pay tribute to our veterans. Join us for “Pensacola’s Salute to Veterans,” a concert event featuring all branches of the US Armed Forces and music by the Pensacola Civic Band. We invite all veterans to attend this concert free of charge. Free ticket must be picked up at the Saenger Box Office. 850-595-3880; www.pensacolasaenger.com info@pensacolasaenger.com

Monday, November 12

Co-ed Basketball Bootcamp 6-8 p.m. Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola. For details, see October 29 listing. Pensacola MESS Hall Veterans’ Day Observance The MESS Hall salutes those who serve our country. We will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in observance of Veterans’ Day. All active duty military personnel and veterans admitted free. Military family members are admitted with our regular military discount of $7 per person. For more info, call (877) 937-6377 or visit www.pensacolamesshall.org/.

Tuesday, November 13

The Illusionists Present: Adam Trent Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Broadway/TV star Adam Trent is bringing his signature brand of magic and illusion to Pensacola in a 90-minute stage spectacle. Produced by the creative team behind The Illusionists, the world’s best-selling touring magic show, THE ILLUSIONISTS PRESENT ADAM TRENT (AdamTrent.com) is an immersive entertainment extravaganza of magic, comedy and music designed to entertain the entire family. Showcasing his “futuristic” brand of magic, Trent has mesmerized live audiences around the globe, in person and as a featured guest on America’s Got Talent, The Today Show, Ellen, the Travel Channel and Disney Channel among countless other TV appearances. The 31-year-old also stars in his own recently launched 10-episode TV series The Road Trick on Red Bull TV. Call 850-595-3880 or visit www. pensacolasaenger.com.

Wednesday, November 14

Story Seedlings 2:45-4 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Story Seedlings builds on the foundations begun in Sprouts with emphasis on chapter books. Lessons are geared for 4- to 7-year-olds, but siblings under 10 are welcome to join and participate as they like! Cost: complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Touring 7:30 p.m. Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from Chip’s groundbreaking Fresh Aire series

Veterans’ Meeting 4-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. These free monthly meetings focus on veteran services in our community. Call Evelyn Coleman at (850) 543-2258 or visit http://everman.org/.

Friday, November 16

The Gulf Breeze Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Meets the 3rd Friday of every month at LaBrisa in Gulf Breeze. Please join us for this time of non-traditional networking and education. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit https://powerfulwomengulfcoast.com/ event/gulf-breeze-pwgc-meeting/. Black Friday Shopping Expo 3-7 p.m. Pensacola Improv Event Center, 375 North Pace Blvd., Pensacola. Come out, mix and mingle while shopping, networking, and socializing with chamber members and the community. We will have music, drinks, and light hor d’oeuvres for all. It’s a FREE community event! For more info, call (850) 438-3993 or visit https://gcmcc.info/Events. Music Under the Stars with The Marlow Boys 7 p.m. 501 N. Hayne St., Pensacola. From the Ground Up Community Garden is welcoming Joe and Karl Lagley, cousins and lifelong music partners, who jumpstarted their music careers back home around Marlow, Ala. Having played together since their teen years, they joined in with Stan Foster and Phil Proctor. Bring your favorite drink, something to sit on and enjoy an evening under the stars. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the garden. For more info, call (850) 934-3609 or visit www.fromthegroundupgardenpensacola.com/. Gallery Night 5-9 p.m. Stroll through the charming brick walkways of downtown Pensacola to experience an eclectic array of local music, art and cuisine. Gallery Night is a free event and many businesses provide light refreshments. Visit downtownpensacola.com/ or call (850) 434-5371. Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 7:35 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Friends and Family Night vs. Quad City Storm. For details, see October 26 listing. Preschool Art Time: Felt Collage 10-11 a.m. Pensacola Museum of Art. First and third Fridays for ages 2-5 years old with caregiver. Artists play with shapes and build shape recognition as they create colorful felt collages. For details, see November 2 listing. Pensacola Museum of Art’s Art Academy for Autism: Adult 4-5:30 p.m. Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for those on the autism spectrum. For details, see November 2 listing.

Saturday, November 17

Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony Noon-12:30 p.m.The Jacksonian Guard is a Pensacola

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FamilyCalendar

re-enactment group of Jacksonian era and Spanish soldiers, fifers, and drummers who perform a Colors Ceremony every third Saturday, in Plaza Ferdinand, on Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. The ceremony commemorates Pensacola’s 195th Birthday & Florida as a U.S. Territory. For more info, call (850) 466-5220.

Sunday, November 25

Christmas Creations Arts & Craft Show 9 a.m.-2 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 6 E. Wright St., Pensacola. For details, see November 16 listing.

Harlem Globetrotters at Pensacola Bay Center 7 p.m. Featuring some of the most elite dunkers on the planet, exceptional ball handlers, and Guinness World Record holders, a Globetrotters game is more than just basketball – they are the ultimate in family entertainment that will bring smiles and fan interaction to people of all ages. For tickets or more info, call 800-745-3000 or visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/.

Pet Partners: Read With Me 10 a.m.-noon. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see October 27 listing. For more info, call (850) 453-7780. Pensacola Little Theatre’s 24-Hour Theatre 7:30 p.m. Six short one-act plays cast, written, directed, and performed within 24 hours. A Pensacola Little Theatre favorite! For tickets or more info, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/. Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Small Dog Race Night vs. Quad City Storm. For details, see October 26 listing. Pensacola Museum of Art’s Art Academy for Autism: Youth 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for those on the autism spectrum. For details, see November 3 listing.

Wednesday, November 21

Battle of the South Youth National Turkey Bowl Age division 6U, 7U, 8U, 9U, 10U, 11U, 12U and 14U. Multiple-team discounts available. To register or for more info, visit www.warringtonsports.com or call (850) 341-1101. Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 6:35 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Thanksgiving vs. Macon Mayhem. For details, see October 26 listing.

Thursday, November 22

Battle of the South Youth National Turkey Bowl For details, see November 21 listing.

Friday, November 23

Battle of the South Youth National Turkey Bowl For details, see November 21 listing. Winterfest Kickoff 4:45 p.m. parade begins in front of Artel Gallery, 223 S Palafox Place, Pensacola. The Elf Parade is a grand kickoff to the 2018 holiday season in downtown Pensacola! The Parade Grand Marshall leads the merry crew of kids, parents, toys and characters from the old Escambia County Courthouse to Plaza Wonderland at Palafox and Government Streets. The six-block route takes about 20 minutes, and includes a Christmas song battle, tumbling snowflakes, and plenty of cheer. For more info, call (850) 583-1365 visit https:// pensacolawinterfest.org/

Saturday, November 24

Natural Healing/Cancer Study 2-4 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 315 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see November 10 listing. Open Studio: Collage with Plastic & Paper Plantlife 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art. For details, see November 10 listing. Battle of the South Youth National Turkey Bowl For details, see November 21 listing.

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

Creek Indian Celebration Days 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tribal Grounds, 4750 Willard Norris Road, Milton. For details, see November 24 listing.

Thursday, November 29

Friday, November 30

Pensacola Ice Flyers Ice Hockey 7:35 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Tampa Bay Lightning Night vs. Birmingham Bulls. For details, see October 26 listing. Pensacola Museum of Art’s Art Academy for Autism: Adult 4-5:30 p.m. Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for those on the autism spectrum. For details, see November 2 listing. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Cinco Banderas 7 p.m. Artel Gallery. Free performance inspired by the current exhibition at the Gallery’s annual celebration of local visual art. For tickets or more info, call (850) 4352533 or visit www.pensacolasymphony.com/. Choral Society of Pensacola Presents: Handel’s Messiah at Pensacola Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. First performed in 1741, this reflection on the birth, death and resurrection of Christ remains one of the best-known and best-loved works in the classical repertoire. Performance of selections from Messiah at a meeting of the Music Study Club of Pensacola in 1935 led to the formation of the Society, which has presented the work, at least in part, every year since. For more info or tickets, visit www.pensacolasaenger. com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Pensacola Museum of Art’s Art Academy for Autism: Youth 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for those on the autism spectrum. For details, see November 3 listing. Pensacola MESS Hall Questioning Corner 10 a.m.-noon. 116 N. Tarragona St., Pensacola. Young learners engage in age-appropriate exploration related to special themes. Activities are geared for learners ages 3-8 and are included in admission. Today’s topic is Light and Shadow. For more info, call (877) 937-6377 or visit www.pensacolamesshall.org/. Pensacola Railfest Model Train Show and Sale 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Hadji Shrine, 800 West 9 Mile Road, Pensacola. Featuring layouts of all scales and vendors from all over the region. Adults $6; children under 10 are free! For more info, visit www.firstcitychristmas.com/.

Every Sunday This Month

Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. The service always draws a large and friendly crowd. Visit http://www.centralonline.tv/ flora-bama/.

Family-Friendly Improv at Pensacola Library 2:30-3:30 p.m. 239 N. Spring St. Come learn basic improv techniques and games like those in the comedy show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Improv is storytelling without a script. All ages welcome, but parents must accompany younger children. For more info, call (850) 436-5060.

Every Monday This Month

Junior Tennis Clinic 4-5 p.m. up to age 8; 5-6 p.m. for ages 9-14. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. Cost is $10. E-mail our Junior Tennis Director at Brandon@ PacActive.com to receive a FREE tennis level evaluation for proper placement. Call (850) 453-1534 for more information.

Every Tuesday This Month

Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Fresh produce to local Lonestar Kitchen to jewelry and soaps. Come support local artists. For more info, visit www.facebook.com/pg/ gbfarmersmarket/ or call (850) 867-7263. Virtual Reality, Xbox One X, Board Games and More for Teens. 4-5:30 p.m. Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Join us in the STEAM Lab for access to video games, board games, card games and more tech. Bring your friends or come prepared to make new ones. For more info, call (850) 436-5060. LEGO Night at Pensacola Library 6 p.m. 239 N. Spring St. Visit the craft room to create with LEGO. There will be building challenges and open play. Best enjoyed by ages 2 and up; parent or caregiver must be present. For more info, call (850) 436-5060. Open STEAM Lab Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-noon and from 6-7:30 p.m. @ Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. We can help you get started. Drop into the STEAM Lab during our open hours and staff will assist you in getting started with robotics, virtual reality, the Silhouette machines, and other technology. For more info, call (850) 436-5060. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Children ages 3-5 are invited to do arts & crafts, make a snack and have story time. The classes are creative and have an organic, environmental and local twist. Price: Complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Free. Funky Flow is a creative hour with fun postures and music, combining yin and yang postures. Please wear comfortable clothing. All you need is yourself, a mat if you have one and an open mind. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Tuesday Jazz Jam 6:30 p.m. Seville Quarter, 130 East Government Street, Pensacola. Featuring various jazz vocalists and musicians weekly. For more info, call (850) 434-6211 or visit http://www.sevillequarter.com/.

Every Wednesday This Month

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Support Groups & Classes Every Thursday This Month

Pickleball at PAC! 6-8 p.m. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. Looking to try something fun and competitive? Join us for a pick-up game of Pickleball. Spare paddles are limited, so please BYOP. Members play free and guests play for only $3. For more info, call Max at (850) 453-1534 or visit www.pacactive.com.

Every Saturday This Month

Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art, and antiques are just a few of the items offered by vendors at Palafox Market in Downtown Pensacola. Items originate directly from onsite vendors who grow, make, or create the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and art for sale. For more info, visit www.palafoxmarket.com.

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Chess Club 2 p.m. Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. All playing levels are welcome, including beginners. The library will provide all the chess boards and pieces. For more info, call (850) 436-5060.

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Orange Blossom Special 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Children’s Museum, 115 Zaragoza Street, Pensacola. Come on downtown for storytime Saturdays! Climb aboard and take a journey with storyteller Paul Morrell on the Orange Blossom Special train ride. Learn Florida train history inside the museum and then take a ride on the train. Tickets are only $5 each (includes 1 free adult).

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Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace. Providing local goods, including produce, baked breads, canned preserves, cooked meats and even wood-fired pizza. Free Beginner and Intermediate Ukulele Class 9:30-11 a.m. Blues Angel Music, 657 N. Pace Blvd., Pensacola. Our free beginner ukulele classes are designed to get you familiarized with the ukulele, including parts of the ukulele, how to hold it, how to tune it, basic chord shapes, basic strumming patterns and chord changes for your first song! The intermediate class focuses on learning songs and playing while singing along. For more info, call (850) 457-7557.

Classes

Community Education

Babysitter Class This class is open to youth from ages 11-15 for $30 (lunch is not provided). All participants receive an American Heart Association Family & Friends CPR Card, plus a Sacred Heart Hospital Babysitting Certificate. Classes are held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5051 Carpenter’s Creek Drive in Pensacola at our Population Health Building. Pre-registration is required. Call (850) 4167262. Course provided by Sacred Heart Education. SNAP, which stands for STOP NOW AND PLAN, is an evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral model powered by the minds at Child Development Institute (CDI). SNAP helps troubled children and their parents learn how to effectively manage their emotions and “keep problems small.” SNAP services are completely free to youth and their families! SNAP Boys and SNAP Girls program is designed for children ages 6-11 who are engaging in aggressive, anti-social behavior and/ or have come into contact with authority figures at school or in the community. The parent group meets at the same time as the SNAP Boys/SNAP Girls groups. Parents learn effective child management and SNAP strategies. The group also provides parents with an opportunity to make connections with other parents facing similar challenges. For more info or to participate in a program, call (850) 453-2772.

Prenatal & Childbirth

Baptist Women’s Center offers you choices to

tailor your experience from early pregnancy to months following your baby’s birth. Our experienced team of nurses and educators are specially trained to make your birthing experience one of a kind. To register or for more info about our classes, call (850) 434-4567 or visit www.ebaptisthealthcare.org/birth. Baby Care Basics – Two-class series walks you through what to expect in the hospital and at home. A key milestones guide will be given to monitor baby’s growth and needs and how to meet them. $20 per series. Baptist Birth Experience – Overview of the Baptist Women’s Center, tour of labor & delivery unit, and epidural video. FREE. Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Held first Fridays of most months, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Breastfeeding – Two-class series teaches how breastfeeding works, the best way to start, and what choices will result in a rewarding breastfeeding experience. $20 per series. Prepared Childbirth – This class prepares you and your partner for the labor and delivery journey by understanding the process and offering coping skills. $90 per series. All-day or four-class series available. Sibling Class (Ages 3 to 8) – This class helps you prepare your children for the arrival of the new member of the family! $10 per child per class. Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Tours of Baptist Hospital, 3rd Floor, Labor and Delivery Unit Please call (850) 434-4874 to reserve your tour time. Tours are available Saturdays, 10 a.m. Monthly Series Package – $125 per couple and includes Prepared Childbirth (a four-class series or one all-day class), two Breastfeeding classes and two Baby Care Basics classes.

Sacred Heart Hospital offers a variety of prenatal

education classes designed to help parents-to-be prepare for their special day and for the days that follow back home with the new baby. Registration is required for all classes and is offered online. For any questions, please call (850) 416-6378 (NEST) or visit www.sacredheart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/. Breastfeeding This two-hour class, taught by one of Sacred Heart Hospital’s lactation consultants, teaches techniques for breastfeeding success and addresses common concerns to make your experience as smooth as possible. Cost is $20 per couple. Offered monthly on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings. Infant/Child CPR Course Class is open to new parents, family members and friends who will be caring for a baby or young child. Classes are held every Tuesday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Fee is $22 per person and pre-registration is required. To register, please call the Sacred Heart Education Department at (850) 416-7264. This class is an orientation to CPR and is not a certifying or credentialing course. “My Family’s Growing” Sibling Class Class prepares soon-to-be siblings (ages 3 through 10) for the arrival of a new baby in their family. Our sibling class includes a complete tour of the Maternity & Women’s Center of Sacred Heart Hospital. Cost is $10 per child. Newborn Parenting This class strives to prepare parents in caring for their new bundle of joy, from birth through the first few weeks at home. Newborn Parenting is taught by experienced nurses from Sacred Heart Hospital’s motherbaby unit, and a local pediatrician will be available to answer questions during a portion of the class. Cost is $20 per couple. Prepared Childbirth Classes Designed to help prepare you and your partner for the birthing process – including tips to make you more comfortable during labor – Prepared Childbirth Classes are taught by experienced obstetrics nurses and

include a tour of the Maternity and Women’s Center. Cost is $50 per couple. This course is offered in two different formats to meet your scheduling and educational needs: •As a four-week series, especially designed for firsttime moms. •As a one-day class, ideal for moms who have had children before and are looking for a refresher course in the delivery experience. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www.sacredheart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/.

Tours Tours of Sacred Heart Hospital’s Maternity & Women’s Center will give soon-to-be moms an idea of what to expect during your stay at the hospital, including where to go, where to park and what to bring when you arrive for the delivery of your baby. Partners are welcome and encouraged to attend.

West Florida Hospital understands that giving

birth is a family affair, and we encourage the involvement of family and friends in the birth process. For more information about The Family Birthplace or childbirth classes at West Florida Hospital, call (850) 494-4368 or visit https://westfloridahospital.com/ service/family-birthplace. Breastfeeding Preparation Class Classroom 5 & 6 on the 7th Floor of the Ancillary Building at West Florida Hospital located at 8383 North Davis Hwy, Pensacola. Free for pre-delivery parents. Topics include: How breastfeeding works (How the Breast Makes Milk), Latch & Positioning, When to Feed Your Baby, How to Know Baby is Getting Enough Milk, Breast Care, Pumping, Storing and Bottle-Feeding with Breastmilk. This is a Power Point, Videos, and Question/ Answer Class. Mom, Dad, and caregivers are welcome. For more info, call (850) 494-4368 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/service/childbirth-preparation. Childbirth Preparedness Class - 4-Week Series Classroom 1 on the 7th Floor in the Ancillary Building located at 8383 North Davis Hwy, Pensacola. Join us for a PowerPoint presentation that will discuss: what to expect in labor, vaginal delivery, c/s delivery, pain control options, post partum care, newborn care, and we will tour the labor unit/suite. This 4-week course goes into a little more detail than the intensive 4-hr course. For more info, call (850) 494-4368 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/service/childbirth-preparation. Childbirth Preparedness Class - Express Classroom 1 on the 7th Floor in the Ancillary Building located at 8383 North Davis Hwy, Pensacola. Condensed version of our 4-week Childbirth Preparation class into one day, has many great topics, features and video clips including: understanding pregnancy, labor, medical procedures and cesarean birth. Free, very interactive and we finish with a tour of the Family Birthplace. Please call (850) 494-4368 for any additional questions.

Support Groups Cancer

Cancer Support Group 2-3 p.m. second Tuesdays. Sacred Heart Hospital On-

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Support Groups & Classes cology Unit Library, 2nd floor. Cancer patients, cancer survivors, their families & friends are invited to join. Enjoy some “Tea for the Soul” & light refreshments. The group is designed to offer support through education, spirituality and humor as well as the comfort of fellowship with other cancer patients. For more info, call Rene Moses, 416-7703 or Jo Jensen, 416-7593. CLIMB (Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery) Tuesday nights for six consecutive weeks at the Sacred Heart Cancer Center. A unique, free program created to provide emotional support for children who have a parent with cancer. During the group meetings, conversation and art are used to help children identify and appropriately express complex feelings related to having a parent with cancer. Preregistration is required by calling (850) 416-2679. Gulf Coast Wings of Hope, Inc. Support Group 6:30-8 p.m. 3rd Tuesdays in Conference Room A of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. Supporting families of children with blood disorders and cancer. Anyone with a friend or family member who has been stricken with a form of childhood cancer or blood disorder is welcome. More details can be found at www.wingsofhopeinc.org. Managing Life with Cancer: A Mini Series Four-week program at Sacred Heart Cancer Center designed to help patients and families learn how to emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially cope with cancer. Patients will be able to connect with other cancer patients while learning common emotions associated with a cancer diagnosis, healthy coping skills, safe exercises, sources of personal hope, and available financial resources. Lunch is provided so pre-registration is required. Call (850) 416-2679. Patient and Family Cancer Support Group Pensacola 4-5:30 p.m. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Suite 233, 1717 North E St., Avery Street Entrance. For more info, call (850) 469-7372. Prostate Cancer Support Group 5-6:30 p.m. 2nd Thursdays. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Suite 233, 1717 North E St., Avery Street Entrance. For more info, call (850) 469-7372. Prostate Cancer Self Help Group 9:30-11:30 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at Sacred Heart Hospital. This group sponsored by the American Cancer Society is designed to educate and support men facing prostate cancer. Call (850) 438-4491. Sacred Heart Cancer Center Sacred Heart provides emotional support and education for cancer patients and their families through a variety of support groups. For more info, visit the Cancer Center Support Groups website or call (850) 416-2679.

Grief Support

GriefShare The Sacred Heart Palliative Care department provides a free, 13-week Grief Support Group for adults who have lost a loved one. The meetings are in the Palliative Care department, located in Suite 201 of the Bayou Tower on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. The public may use the free valet parking at the hospital’s Bayou Tower entrance, which faces Bayou Blvd. For class dates and times and for registration information, call Kerri Riggs, LCSW, at (850) 416-7705. Grief Support Group for Adults Sacred Heart Hospital provides this free group for

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018

adults who have lost a loved one. For future classes and registration info, please call (850) 416-7705. Grief Support at Baptist Health Care Meetings last for six consecutive weeks. Next session is September 26 through October 31 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. For more info, call (850) 469-7197.

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s Support Group West Florida Hospital - West Florida Rehab - Community Rooms A & B, 8383 North Davis Highway, Pensacola. For meeting dates and times, call (850) 494-3212 or visit https://westfloridahospital.secure.ehc.com/ calendar/index.dot. Crohn’s & Colitis Support Group 6:30-7:30 p.m. Next meetings are November 5 and December 10. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 1-2 p.m., usually second Fridays. West Florida Hospital - West Florida Rehab - Community Rooms A & B, 8383 North Davis Highway, Pensacola. Refreshments will be served. To verify meeting dates and times, call (850) 494-3212 or visit https://westfloridahospital.secure. ehc.com/calendar/index.dot. Stroke Support Group 12:30-1:30 p.m., second Wednesdays. October through December meetings are at Sacred Heart Women’s & Children’s Classroom C/D (regular meeting location). See Information Desk staff if you need assistance. Please let us know in advance if you need a wheelchair. All stroke survivors and their family members invited to join us each month, free of charge. Discussions are led by the Neurology Social Worker. Topics change each month, and meetings occasionally will include a guest speaker. For more info, call (850) 416-7621 or e-mail: eopena@ascension.org.

Parent Support

Baptist Mommy & Me Play Group Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Free support group for moms with babies up to six months old. Call for next meeting dates. For more info, call (850) 434-4567. La Leche League Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Our mission is to help mothers breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother. Free. Next meetings will be held November 1 and December 6, from 10 a.m.-noon. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http:// everman.org/event/la-leche-league-9/. LEAPS New Mom Support Group Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. LEAPS (Love, Encouragement, and Postpartum Support) is a self-care support group focused on helping moms connect and engage in activities that promote balance, stress management, and overall wellness. Guest speakers and self-care activities will be provided and are free of cost. Precrawling babies welcome. Free. Next meeting will be held November 17, from 10-11:30 a.m. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http:// everman.org/. Mommy & Me Support Group The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon in Classroom C/D of Sacred Heart Hospital, located at

5151 N. Ninth Ave. in Pensacola. This free support group provides mothers with an opportunity to share experiences, gain support and develop friendships. A lactation consultant from the Sacred Heart Maternity & Women’s Center will be present to answer questions and offer advice. Baby weight checks are offered at each meeting. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required for each class session. For more info about this class or your parenting experience, please call The Nesting Place Women’s Boutique at 850-416-6378 (NEST) or visit www.sacred-heart.org/childbirth. MOMS Club of Pensacola-Northeast Non-profit organization whose mission is to support stay-at-home mothers and their children. We offer age-specific playgroups, member-only activities and participate in philanthropic efforts within our community. We strive to provide a supportive, caring atmosphere during every stage of motherhood. Member meetings are held near the end of each month. Visit us at www.momsclubpensacolane.weebly.com or find us on Facebook. MOMS Club of Pensacola-Southwest We are “MOMS Offering Moms Support.” Our nonprofit organization aims to meet the needs of West Pensacola and Perdido Key mothers who have chosen to stay at home with their children. Public member meetings are held on 4th Wednesdays. We also meet throughout the month in smaller, age-specific and activity-specific playgroups for various club activities. For more info, visit https://momsclubpensacolasw. weebly.com/ or find us on Facebook. Pensacola Parents of Multiples If you are expecting or already blessed with multiples, you are encouraged to get free, helpful information. We offer a support network, social activities for children and parents, library and more. For more info, visit pensacolamultiples.com or call (850) 449-4208. Also e-mail PensacolaParentsofMultiples@hotmail. com.

Special Needs

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Children With Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) Support Group For families of children with attention deficit disorders. To find a local group, please visit www.chadd.org/.

Weight Loss

Weight-Loss Support Group Meets second Tuesdays, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Baptist Tower 3, Ground Floor, Baptist Weight-Loss Center, 1717 North E St. For more info, call (850) 437-8746.

Please send your calendar events to editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Fin

A Page in a Book A Collection of Books for Young Collectors If you have a kid, you probably have a collector. Most children gather and assemble examples of their favorite items as an expression of their interests. The act of collecting things also guides a child’s thinking skills as they learn to classify and group items based on similarities as well as diversity. The ability to identify distinctions between similar things is another benefit that young collectors gain. Parents who have been lectured by a child on the minute (but critically important) differences between various

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Pokemon or pebbles, can verify this emerging cognitive talent in young collectors. The following titles explore the nature of collecting and the one of a kind thrill that comes along with it.

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Hector the Collector

by Emily Beeny, Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin (Roaring Brook Press) On the way to school, Hector picked up an acorn from the sidewalk. It was smooth, brown and had a knobby cap. Hector decided to keep it. At recess, he discovered two more acorns, each slightly different from the first. As the days passed, Hector’s collection of acorns grew until it filled his school desk. When his classmates discovered his desk full of acorns, their first response was to laugh. But when the teacher allows Hector to show the differences among his acorns, the kids begin to see similarities with the things that they each collect. A warmly expressed celebration of collecting, both private and public, Hector the Collector is an inspirational read for every child assembling their own collection of favorite things.

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Old Hat

by Emily Gravett (Simon & Schuster) Harbet’s hat was knitted for him by his Nana and it’s been his favorite since he was little. When his friends, wearing the latest style in fruity headgear, mock his old hat, Harbet adds a new fruit cap to his ensemble. By the time he wears it, however, the newest style of chapeau has moved on and his friends are still one step ahead of Harbet’s hat game. His hat collection grows out of control as he tries to keep up with the changing styles. Finally, when Harbet decides to let his head do its own thing, it may be his unique bold style that inspires new collections. A brilliantly illustrated cautionary tale about following fads, Old Hat offers a sweet hat tip to staying loyal to your individual style.

The Word Collector

by Peter H. Reynolds (Orchard Books / Scholastic) Some kids collect rocks, comics, stamps or coins. Jerome collects words. Sometimes the word he collects on a scrap of paper was one he’d seen or heard. Some words were short and sweet, others multi-syllable and melodic. One day, his paper word collection spills out of its organized binders, jumbling the words in unusual combinations. Viewing his favorite words paired in new ways, Jerome discovers new lyricism within his collection that has the power to move and delight others. Featuring Jerome’s word snippets throughout, this powerful title offers readers ample opportunities to explore both new and unfamiliar words, taking delightful side journeys with each new romp through the pages.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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First Man

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The story starts with a family. Sarah and Sonny Quinn (Madison Iseman and Jeremy Ray Taylor) live with their mom, Kathy (Wendi McLendon-Covey), in a sleepy town in New York. Sonny and his best friend Sam (Caleel Harris) run a junk business and they are hired to clean out a dilapidated house with the promise they can keep whatever they find as payment. The boys discover a secret room with a chest and a locked book inside. After they open it a strange ventriloquist dummy, Slappy, appears. Then the fun really begins. Slappy does his best to befriend the boys and Sarah, helping them as much as he can with his magical powers. But he soon becomes controlling, demanding, and even violent in his efforts to become part of the Quinn family. The kids try to get rid of Slappy, but this only makes him angrier and determined to seek revenge against them. To this end Slappy combines his powers with the local Tesla plant to make all of Halloween come to life - the decorations, the costumes, even the candy. Some of it’s adorable, and some of it’s a little spooky as we see pumpkins, gnomes, scarecrows, a headless horseman, and gummy bears as living creatures. I do mean that it’s spooky for children - I was fine. In what becomes a relatively predictable climax and denouement we see the Quinn siblings and Sam fight off and defeat the Halloween monsters and save each other and their town. This is a nice introduction into the horror genre for kids. There were spooky, suspenseful moments, and lots of creepy editing and music, but nothing that older children couldn’t handle. But for younger or sensitive children (which mine are both) I’d probably save this one for a few years.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: A Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: B In 1962, Neil Armstrong (Ryan Gosling) reads an unusual job posting: NASA, the United States’ fledgling space program, is looking for astronauts. With their counterparts in the Soviet Union making enormous progress, it’s time for the USA to get serious if they intend to beat the Russians to the ultimate goal-- landing a man on the moon. For Neil, the opportunity comes at the perfect time. Shattered after losing a two-year-old daughter to cancer, this quiet and intensely private man is struggling to maintain emotional calm in front of his concerned wife Janet (Claire Foy) and their remaining children. A change of scenery and the challenge of a new workplace offers tempting relief, and Neil accepts an offered position. Already emotionally distant, Neil’s reluctance to share his experiences with Janet pushes their marriage to its limits. Things reach a breaking point when Neil is selected to lead a team of astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission-- if he succeeds, he’ll accomplish one of the most extraordinary feats in human history. If he fails, there’s no possibility of rescue. We may know how this story’s going to end, but what we seldom think about in a society saturated with touch screens and pocket-sized computers, is how it must have felt to not know. The film portrays this uncertainty with sincerity and emotion-- we see the terrible price exacted on the astronauts and their families as they risk everything. Some of these moments are disturbing; all are powerful, and they offer a fitting tribute to those whose lives were forever changed (or lost) in the name of scientific progress. Although we’ll never know exactly what Neil thought and felt at the moment he made history, First Man offers tender and thought-provoking access to his experience.

Little Women

Venom MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: B Profanity: DAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ “The world has enough heroes.” The official tagline for Venom should tell you most of what you need to know about the latest, highly mediocre offering from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Really leaning into the white male anti-hero, and even taking it to new heights, the film follows Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) on an incredible journey from a career in journalism to unemployment and then back to journalism – but this time he’s host to an alien parasite. The parasite, which is known as a symbiote (I would call it a monster), gives him superpowers but is threatening to eat him about half the time. As incredible as all that sounds, it’s minor compared to the journey that the monster, named Venom, goes on. That one goes something like this: “I’ve come to destroy Earth. No, wait - I think I’ll save it and betray my species instead.” Venom feels like it is consciously trying to move the superhero genre beyond Marvel’s usual clean do-goodery. Pushing the PG-13 rating as far as it can go, the movie has over two dozen instances of profanity, including scatological curses, names of deity, and one sexual expletive. Violence is probably an even bigger concern for parents: it is difficult to overstate the disturbing and gruesome nature of the many violent scenes. Probably not appropriate for younger teens, mid to older teens might enjoy this scarier, edgier, anti-hero. I would be hard pressed to find some real uplifting moments in the film. It does explore what is ethical in the pursuit of truth or science, especially when that imperils others. The highlight of the film is Tom Hardy’s performance.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: ASexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: B A tale as old as time, or as old as 1868, this remake of a movie that was a remake of an old book strives to bring the March sisters and their charming story to life in the modern era. An era, we expect, that should dramatically change the plot of the original (cell phones, teenage partying, and antibiotics for example). But despite this, the film remains relatively faithful to the original plot. We follow the March sisters, Jo (Sarah Davenport), Beth (Allie Jennings), Meg (Melanie Stone), and Amy (Elsie Jones/Taylor Murphy) throughout their adolescence and adulthood, often jumping between past and present. An updated plot has Beth plagued by lymphoma as opposed to scarlet fever, and Jo shaves her hair as a sign of solidarity as opposed to selling it as she does in the original. A Little Women for the modern age. The main goal of the film is to see each of the sisters reach their “castle” - a reference to literal castles their mother, Marmee (Lea Thompson), made for them as children that articulated their perfect futures. We watch the sisters struggle to reach their own goals, and endeavour to understand and support each other attaining their own castles. Along the way they encounter social pressures, love lost, love found, disappointment and even death. This version does not do justice either to the original book or the 1994 film adaptation. However, the cast do their best to take these well known and loved characters and bring them to life with as much authenticity as the script allows. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2018