Greater Pensacola Parents Nov21 by KeepSharing

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November2021

Columns

Volume 6 Number 9

Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton

Sports Specialization?

The pros and cons of having your child stick with only one sport.

Tweens, Teens & Screens Setting screen time on your child’s device is an easy win for you.

Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

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21 Tweens, Teens and

Screens

Kristi Bush, LSW

Dave Says

The Science of Giving

How giving enhances kids’ lives and how parents can promote it.

Use our guide as you plan your family outings to celebrate the holidays!

Dave Ramsey

Departments On The Cover Malia Love Easter (5), Liliani Amor Easter (9), Layahna Valentina Easter (7), daughters of Stefanie and Antanis Easter. Grandparents are Elizabeth and James Era, and Dorothy and James Murphy. Lily is very athletic and loves to play sports. Layahna is artistic and helps mom make edible sculptures. Malia is very artistic also and loves to draw and paint. The whole family enjoys the outdoors, going to the beach, riding bikes and walking on nature trails. They spend most of their days outside playing and using their imaginations.

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 29

Family Calendar

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What is the best way to prevent the spread of illness this year?

If you are sick don’t go to...

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Bringing your illness to school, work, or play can put our community at risk of getting sick. Stay home, get rest, and consult your doctor before returning to your normal activities. Learn more at EscambiaHealth.com or 1 greater-pensacola-flu-stay home-when-sickb.indd 1

@HealthyEscambia

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10/11/2021 8:16:05 AM

FromThePublisher

Greater Pensacola Greater Pensacola’s Foremost Parenting Source

My family has recently been dealing with the heart breaking loss of my father. While I could go on and on about what an amazing gift he was to our family, I won’t (not today at least), but I would like to share with you some of the truly unexpected emotions and lessons I have experienced throughout this journey. Naturally, there were many tears, but I found myself actually crying tears of joy at times. I would have never thought that possible but, as I would think about Dad, I would find myself over-flowing with such happiness that I was blessed to have him as my father. The day of his service, a day I had dreaded, ended up being one of the best days. I know that sounds weird, but let me explain. He did not want everyone standing around in dark suits crying, so we planned the day with casual attire, one of his favorite bluegrass songs and a beautiful slideshow of his life. We spent the whole day and into the night surrounded by family and friends all sharing stories and laughing... A LOT! What stood out to me most was that when they talked of Dad, it was never about any major accomplishments or achievements, but how Dad made them feel. People would go on about how nice and kind and funny he was, and how he would always ask people how they were doing or ask about their family. He loved people, in general, and it showed. After the craziness of the last year and a half, all of this really put things into perspective for me. Life is not about the big moments, but the little moments shared with friends, family and even strangers. Because when these little moments are strung together, they really do make a beautiful story. It is the everyday “I love you” when you get off the phone, the silly memes to friends, the smile to the stranger in the grocery store, the text to say “I am here for you”. These shared moments are the things that make life beautiful. I feel so blessed to get to share these everyday parenting moments in life with all of you. While we may not actually be sitting down to a cup of coffee swapping stories and sharing life together, I do feel like we are all sharing in the big, crazy life of parenthood. Some days we talk potty training, some days we talk about our dating teens (yikes!). While we may not recognize one another, we see each other at community events that we attend after perusing the Family Calendar and we celebrate the holidays together through the events in our Holiday Happenings Guide. We cheer for each other’s kids and teachers when reading school news and we support local charities from Bits N Pieces. We laugh together at the parenting memes posted on Facebook and read that article about children and chores on the magazine website, while in car line, because we left our hard copy on the coffee table. I know it sounds weird, but I really do feel like we are all in this together... sharing, supporting, and encouraging one another. All that said, I do hope you enjoy this issue as much as we have loved putting it together for you. This month, you will find a ton of fun seasonal activities in the Holiday Happenings Guide, on page 25, with more events in the Family Calendar, on page 29. Also, in keeping with the theme of being grateful, Sandi Schwartz has provided an insightful article on page 22, The Science of Giving and How It Can Help Your Kids. And, of course, there is so much more... so pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee and let’s share life together.

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Christa Melnyk Hines Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Dave Ramsey Sandi Schwartz Cover Photography Naomi McIntosh Photography Facebook.com/NaomiMcIntoshPhotography @naomimcintoshphotography

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@greaterpensacolaparents.com (850) 426-6222 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us at www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

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

Greater Pensacola Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 6241 Pensacola, FL 32503. The phone number for voice and fax is (850) 426-6222. Greater Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2021 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Greater Pensacola Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Embrace the Challenges A few months ago, I was giving an IQ test to an adorable little boy. As the questions became more difficult, he looked at me and said, “This is challenging. I love a good challenge.” His reaction was so different. Typically, children become frustrated when it gets too hard or they give a whiney variation of, “I don’t know, I just want to stop.” At five years of age this sweet boy had already learned the value of persistence in the face of resistance. The United States military has a popular saying, “Embrace the Suck”. Research among members of the military has repeatedly shown that mental toughness was developed and/or improved when they accepted the difficulty of a situation, made a plan to overcome it, and followed through with the plan.

While parenting may not be as life threatening as serving in a foreign war, it is a grueling and persistent battle. No home is drama free. Bedtime is rarely easy, kitchens are hardly ever clean, and children are only happy about completing chores or homework once in a blue moon. Unfortunately, some parents want someone to “fix” their child at the first sign of anything problematic. The truth is, all children have tantrums, all children are selfish, and no one is born with the ability to be logical when they are overly emotional. How are you dealing with this as a parent? Are you embracing the challenge or becoming whiney and frustrated? How can you be an emotionally healthy parent? Embrace the suck. To improve your own mental toughness, you need to EXPECT to clean up vomit, cancel your exciting plans for a sick child, deal with a tantrum at the worst possible moment, or a variety of other parenting realities. Once

you fully embrace the suck you can avoid the joy stealing pitfalls of bitterness and resentment. When we embrace the suck, we are better able to see the beauty of a face and dress covered in ice cream or the humor in a sassy comment. Embracing the suck of parenting will not only heal you and free you, it will also allow you to fully experience the joys of raising children in spite of how angry, frustrated, sad, or alienated being a parent may make you may feel. I was blessed by a friend who taught me this lesson when my oldest was very young. When I was at her house, her son found a hole in a pillow and pulled out all of the stuffing. It was everywhere. I was exasperated and thought, “How annoying. This will take forever to clean.” She fell on the floor laughing and ran to get a camera. The mess didn’t surprise her (she had previously embraced the suck of toddlers and messes). She treasured that moment (made a plan to enjoy the messes), and did not allow the inconvenience to make her bitter or resentful (followed through with the plan). Let’s revisit that sweet, challenge loving five-year-old. Do you know who modeled that behavior to him? His mother. She rarely complains, becomes frustrated, or whines. She looks at parenting problems as an exciting mystery to solve. Trust me, her son is H-A-R-D, but her attitude towards parenting is positively changing her life and his. Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

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Pensacola Children’s Business Fair

Nov. 7 * Noon-3 p.m. * Downtown Pensacola (Palafox Market). A unique one-day marketplace where kids are the boss! Young entrepreneurs between 6 and 17 years old are challenged to create their own handmade products, develop a brand, create a strategy, and open business to real customers. Businesses range from selling slime to babysitting services, handmade dolls to body scrubs, vegan dog treats and everything in between — to create a melting pot of young creativity and experiential learning. Admission to the event is free to the public, walkable, and family-friendly. Every year our kid vendors take a portion of their profits and reinvest in the community giving back to their favorite charitable causes. For more info, visit www.PensapreneurKids.org.

November 3-6 * 8 a.m. gates open. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show will be held at Pensacola Beach this year. Air Show Schedule (weather permitting): Wednesday, Nov. 3: Breakfast with the Blues for circles and arrivals. Thursday, Nov. 4: Arrival Day and Dress Rehearsal Friday, Nov. 5: Homecoming Air Show Day 1 Saturday, Nov. 6: Homecoming Air Show Day 2 For more info, call (850) 434-1234 or visit www.visitpensacola.com/ events/signature-events/blue-angel-air-show/.

The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival

Pensacola MESS Hall in November

Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

Join the Pensacola MESS Hall at events throughout Foo Foo Fest including Games Garden, Games Unplugged Curiosity Day, and Clue Murder Mystery with the Improbable Cause Mystery Theatre (ICMT). Clue at the Museum Night will be held Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. This Clue-style murder mystery will keep you on your toes as you investigate clues, solve puzzles and interrogate suspects in an interactive mystery show. Presented with light refreshments. Tickets available online. In Games Garden, face off against your friends or puzzle it out together. Discover classic and modern games of chance, science, and skill. Join the Pensacola MESS Hall for games at pop-up locations on the following dates: Nov. 6 & 7 from 1-3 p.m. at Artel Gallery; Nov. 11 from 10 a.m.-noon at Artel Gallery; Nov. 11 from 5-7 p.m. outside Opera event at Hunter Amphitheater at Community Maritime Park; Nov. 13 from 5-7 p.m. outside STAMPED Film Festival, Pensacola Cultural Center; and Nov. 14 from 1-3 p.m. near Jazz for Justice at Seville Quarter. At the Games Unplugged Curiosity Day, explore how games use math and science by playing games from around the world. Visit the MESS Hall on Nov. 13 to explore these special themed activities from 1-4 p.m. Visit https://www.foofoofest.com/ or pensacolamesshall.org for more information.

November 5-7 * 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Seville Square Park, 311 E. Government St. The three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the country’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen and other artists. Live performances include bluegrass, Cajun, jazz, blues and classical. Dance performances include folk, ballet and more. For more info, visit http:// www.ggaf.org/.

Ping Pong on Palafox

November 13 * 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Intersection of Palafox and Romana Streets. An outdoor table tennis “ping pong” tournament for all ages and levels, games, refreshments for players, and more right in the heart of Downtown Pensacola! The round-robin tournament will kick off with kids’ age groups and adult divisions with cash prizes for winners. The first 50 registered players are guaranteed a swag bag and T-shirt. This event is FREE for spectators! For more info, visit https://www.foofoofest.com/. 5

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Cordova Rotary Hosts Annual Pancakes with Santa & Holiday Market

Children of all ages are invited to enjoy a morning of holiday fun with Santa and Santa’s elves, Saturday, November 20, from 8 a.m. to noon at Gulf Coast Kid’s House, 3401 N. 12th Ave. in Pensacola. The 11th Annual “Pancakes with Santa” is hosted by the Cordova Rotary Club with support from many area businessesincluding Barrett McClean Photography who will provide professional photography. This is the first year both organizations are teaming up to host a holiday market in the GCKH parking lot. Get your holiday gifts early! Proceeds will benefit Gulf Coast Kid’s House, a nonprofit organization that facilitates the investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse and neglect and promotes child abuse prevention awareness through community education. A pancake breakfast will be available to purchase at the event for $5 per person. Children 3 and younger are free. Vendors will also be set up in the GCKH parking lot, just like the East Hill Yard Sale. The vendor fee is $25. For more info or to become a vendor, visit www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org/child-abuseprevention-events/.

Perdido Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair & Flicks on the Field

November 13 * Noon-7 p.m. Innerarity Point Park, 5828 Cruzat Rd., Pensacola Browse the vendor booths at the Perdido Area Community Craft & Vendor Fair followed by a special holiday Flicks on the Field outdoor movie night. From noon until 5 p.m., explore locally sourced crafts and items to spark your holiday shopping spirit! Locals, community organizations and businesses are invited to set up a booth and showcase art, crafts and merchandise to local families. After the craft and vendor fair winds down, everyone is invited to enjoy a free showing of Polar Express from their blankets and lawn chairs! For more info, call (850) 492-4660 or visit https://business.perdidochamber.com/.

Season Your Holidays Lighted Boat Parade

December 4 6:30 p.m. View the parade procession, starting from Sabine Marina in Little Sabine Bay to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk on the Santa Rosa Sound. Look for Santa on the lead boat! Fireworks with Santa start on the Sound side at 8 p.m.

Pensacola Winterfest

November 26-December 24 * 5-9 p.m. 223 Palafox Place Pensacola’s historic downtown streets—lit up during the holidays with more than half a million white lights—form a magical backdrop for Winterfest, an iconic celebration that kicks off with the Elf Parade November 26 and ends on Christmas Eve, offering up a daily supply of live performances, holiday trolley tours, cascades of “snow,” Santa, a cast of holiday characters and more. The Elf Parade is a grand kickoff to the 2021 holiday season in downtown Pensacola! At 5 p.m., the parade arrives at Plaza Wonderland for a musical revue of your Winterfest favorites, where Mayor Augustus Maywho and the Grinch will light the grand Christmas Tree and Santa will call the first snowfall of the season. Winners of the parade contests will be awarded, and special guests will sing songs to welcome the Christmas spirit to Pensacola. After the show, Winterfest 2021 officially begins with the reindeer games and tours. Visit Santa and intrude upon the Grinch starting at 6 p.m. For more info, visit https://pensacolawinterfest.org. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

Surfing Santa Parade

December 5 * 2 p.m. From Avenida 10, the parade will make its way down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach and end at the Gulfside Pavilion. See Santa Claus ride down Via De Luna Drive atop a Pensacola Beach fire truck. For more info, call (850) 932-1500. 6

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Pensacola Little Theatre Presents All Together Now

November 14 * 7:30 p.m. A fantastic selection of songs are featured in this brand-new musical revue from shows including Rent, Les Misérables, Into the Woods, Matilda, Hairspray, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof, Once on This Island, Little Shop of Horrors, Mamma Mia! and many more! Performances will be live with your favorite local artists, stories and pictures from our own past productions, and great songs from musicals we cannot get the rights to yet! For tickets or more info, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/.

t Toys for Tots at Gulf Breeze Zoo

November 26 * 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 50% off the cost of zoo ticket with Toys for Tots donation. For more info, visit https://www.gbzoo.com/ or call (850) 932-2229.

Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents Champions of Magic: The Worldwide Wonders Tour

December 1 * 7:30 p.m. The Champions of Magic team presents incredible interactive magic, an impossible escape from Houdini’s water torture cell, a mind-blowing prediction that has to be seen to be believed, levitation high above the stage, and a finale beyond explanation. The show features spectacular illusions that can’t be seen anywhere else. Tickets begin at $38. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/.

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Autauga County Schools

STEM Story Live! Aims to Attract Girls to STEM Careers

Research shows that far too often female students who were strong in math and science in elementary school lose their interest in STEM fields during their teen years. It is believed that this departure can be affected if they get to meet women in STEM careers so that they can see themselves in a future full of options in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM). STEM Story is a TV show currently in development. Sample interviews with STEM heroes can be seen on the STEM Story page on Facebook. The first STEM Story Live! event was held on Sept. 18. It was organized by a partnership between STEM Story, a Pensacola nonprofit, and WSRE-TV, Pensacola’s local PBS station, for teen girls and their parents. Major sponsors were Fishbien Orthodontics and Salz Studio. At this live event, students and their family members heard from University of West Florida President Dr. Martha Saunders. She shared her own story about someone telling her to avoid math. Years later, when she decided to go for her doctorate, the program included five classes in statistics. She almost let her apprehension about math scare her away from her plans. She took a statistics class in her first semester and was pleasantly surprised to find out she was good at it. She went on to pass all five levels of statistics with flying colors. Based on her experience, she urged the girls to try something they think will be too hard because there is a great chance that they, too, will succeed. Then the parents heard about topics such as how school counselors can help, what colleges and universities are looking for when they consider an application, how to find out more about financial assistance for career training and/or post-secondary education, and more, from specialists from Escambia County School District, Pensacola State College and the University of West Florida. The girls rotated in small groups to meet four STEM heroes and to participate in activities involving cybersecurity, engineering, community planning and underwater archaeology. The STEM Story professionals the students met with included: * Traycee Verdun Chapman, Tyndall Air Force Base’s Community Planner and Community Partner Liaison, has been involved in plans to overhaul the base after Hurricane Michael. * Lara Eremita, a certified engineer-intern with the Florida Board, has worked at Tyndall Air Force Base for three years with the 325th Civil Engineer Squadron. She works in civil environmental and utility engineering. * Meghan Mumford, a maritime archaeologist with the UWF Archaeology Institute, has worked on a variety of terrestrial and underwater sites including the 16th-century Tristán de Luna settlement and shipwrecks sites, Emanuel Point II and III. * Nicole Noa, a cybersecurity instructor for Pensacola State College. In addition to teaching, she is the advisor of the Cyber Defense Club, Women in Cybersecurity Club, and offers her time to teach about security attacks and how to mitigate those risks to the community. The event ended with two students winning amazing opportunities. One won a twomonth scholarship for math tutoring or enrichment from Mathnasium. The other won a Naval Aviation Experience – a special day for the student and her family at the Naval Aviation Museum and the National Flight Academy. The goal is for STEM Story to air weekly starting in the fall of 2022 on WSRE and other PBS television channels. The goal will be to cover a diverse variety of career fields, and to feature women who are also diverse, so that girls in the show’s target audience can see someone who looks like them, women who reflect the diversity of the show’s audience, working in STEM careers. Sample interviews can be explored on the STEM Story page on Facebook. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

Montessori’s Fun Days Link to Charitable Giving

Montessori School of Pensacola has special “Fun Days” throughout the year where students are invited to participate in special dress-up days on Fridays. The first Fun Day of the year was Dress like a Pet Day on September 15. In conjunction with dressing as pets, students could bring in donations for Pensacola’s Hotel for Dogs and Cats (a rescue and adoption center). Grace Coleman, a current senior at West Florida High School who is a Montessori School of Pensacola alumni student, volunteers at Hotel for Dogs and Cats, so the school was happy to be able to partner with her to organize donations. Students love the opportunity to dress up for school, while also giving back. For info, visit https://www.h4dc.org/.

St. Paul Families Enjoy Lunch On The Lawn

A new event, Lunch on the Lawn, launched this year at St. Paul Catholic School. Each class gets to have a special lunch with their families. It has been so wonderful to see so many families together at the school, enjoying lunch outside! www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

East Hill Welcomes Community Helpers

This past month, the kindergarten classes at East Hill Christian School learned about community helpers and the tremendous value they bring to our lives through their heroic efforts! The students had a visit from many community helpers including a nurse practitioner from Sacred Heart Hospital, one of our School Resource Officers from Pensacola Police Department, and a firefighter from the Pensacola Fire Department Station #1. The kindergarten students were also able to enjoy a special day where they dressed up as their favorite community helpers. Thank you, community helpers and first responders, for all you do. We appreciate you!

Santa Rosa Online Kicks Off New Year

Our Santa Rosa Online students are having a wonderful start to the 2021/2022 school year! Ethan is one of our amazing elementary students who is ready for a great year with Mrs. Swim. Having a designated workspace is a great way to stay organized and focused as an online student.

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East Hill ‘Sees You At the Pole’

On September 22, East Hill Christian School’s Student Government Association sponsored its Annual See You at the Pole event where many of our students and faculty gathered together around the flagpole to pray for our nation’s leaders, our community, and our EHCS family. This year’s theme was ‘Just Pray’ based on James 4:10. Special thanks to senior Chaeli Harris for heading this up this year!

St. Paul Art Club Creates Walking Rosary Mosaic

The Art Club at St. Paul Catholic School is creating a Walking Rosary Mosaic as the students’ major project this year. Each “bead” is actually a circular cement block adorned with fragments of ceramics. In October, the Spartan artists celebrated completing another decade of the Rosary!

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Book Buffet is a Delicious Success at CLA

Jennifer Russell’s fifth-grade reading curriculum at Creative Learning Academy focuses on teaching students to understand and develop ideas about the texts they read. Students learn to support their ideas using specific details from books, and are expected to think critically about quotes, facts and events to formulate opinions about a text and explain it. Fifth-graders also expand these skills as they write (and create!) extensively about what they read. Russell chose to facilitate a Book Buffet for a non-traditional independent reading project that would inspire her students to be creative and enjoy the reading and writing process. She was incredibly impressed with their vision and effort! Using fake food as a vehicle, fifth-graders created donuts, hamburgers, pizza, s’mores, sushi, cakes and bread to “summarize” their books! Each layer of food allowed students to describe and analyze different components of their novels, representing the setting, characters, plot and personal opinions of the book. The Book Buffet presentations sparked genuine interest in reading. The class also had an amazing time during the Book Buffet because they brought in real food to eat as they shared their projects! “This project was a lot of fun because we had choices,” one student said. “We chose our book and chose how to design and create our project, and we could choose to bring in real food too!” Another student added, “I loved the book I read for the project, and the project was so creative that I was excited to make it!” A last comment was, “I enjoyed viewing the other projects and listening to the presentations that inspired me to read other books.”

Montessori Students Present Lessons for Indigenous Peoples’ Day

In honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Middle School students at Montessori School of Pensacola prepared and presented lessons to the Upper Elementary class. Students researched their topics (including history of our country, as well as the current proclamation honoring the day) and made PowerPoint presentations. They then took questions from the other students. This was a cultural lesson, but also gave the students practice public speaking. For more info, visit www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidentialactions/2021/10/08/a-proclamation-indigenous-peoples-day-2021/.

Searching for Fun? Make the Pensacola Children’s Museum part of your holiday plans!

Find our updated hours and site information by visiting HistoricPensacola.org. 13

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Autauga County Schools

West Florida High Celebrates 20th Anniversary With Inaugural Induction of Hall of Fame Class

West Florida High School celebrates the 2001 opening of the school with the first class of the West Florida Legacies—an alumni Hall of Fame which will honor graduates and former staff members who are noted for high levels of achievement in their fields of endeavor and who make a significant contribution to that field. The nomination process began in July and ended mid August. Nominees had to meet the criteria of being a graduate from at least 10 years prior or retired from service to the school at least three years prior. Inductees were recognized September 24 during a pre-game ceremony. West Florida’s varsity football team hosted Washington High School immediately following the ceremony.

LFCS Procession for St. Therese Feast Day

Little Flower Catholic School celebrated our patroness, St. Therese of Lisieux, during a procession October 1. Following Mass, Kaniya Westbrooks had the honor of representing St. Therese and carrying her relic in the procession. Ian Malone, DaQuavion Jackson, LaQaurius Peoples and LaQristen Peoples were our honor guard and carried our statue of St. Therese in the procession.

Santa Rosa Online Nominates Teacher of the Year

Rachel Wade was nominated Teacher of the Year for Santa Rosa Online. She teaches HOPE and is our resident health and wellness coordinator. Thank you for all you do for our students.

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Pensacola Catholic Welcomes the Class of 2026

On September 28, Pensacola Catholic High School welcomed visiting eighth-graders who attended the first of five ‘Visitation Days’ that are hosted each fall. Eighth-grade students assemble in the gymnasium by 7:45 a.m. on these designated days where they are greeted by Student Ambassadors. Cheerleaders and the Crusader Band welcome the students with a brief cheer and then Principal Sister Kierstin officially welcomes the visitors and summarizes what their half-day at CHS will entail. Eighth-graders are then divided into small groups and led on tours of our Athletic Complex and our Science Department where they take part in several scientific experiments. Students attend six different classrooms for a brief “taste” of the curriculum that is offered at Catholic High School ranging from Literature to World History, English, Spanish, Personal Finance, Religion, Geometry, and Personal Fitness. CHS also offers various levels of math, science and social studies. In between their six “classes,” they are given a snack while they visit the new Student Life Center that also doubles as the school cafeteria. Students visit the school’s Library/Media Center where they are introduced to the technology that is used throughout the curriculum. Students finish their morning with rotating visits to the state-of-the-art Robotics/ STEM lab, Music Building, and Art Studio. Sister Kierstin wraps up their visit to Catholic High School with a short summary discussion before they depart at noon. In addition to Visitation Days that are open to students, Catholic High also hosts an Open House in the fall, to allow interested parents and students to learn more about Catholic as an option for a private school that offers not only a quality academic program but also the full high school experience with athletics and many other extracurricular activities. Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

MSP Students Learn About Migrant Workers

Students in Upper Elementary at Montessori School of Pensacola got to experience what life is like for migrant laborers. They carried their own water jugs and collected and transported harvests to deliver to others. They walked around the neighborhood that surrounds the Montessori Drive campus. This hands-on experience came from stories they are reading in their Voices literature program about migrant workers and their children. The discussions students had included how hard it was and how thirsty they got—as well as how hard it was for them to imagine doing it for further distances like real workers or how hard it would be to go to school and also have to work on farms. They definitely empathized with the children who work on farms. www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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East Hill Christian Holds Senior Retreat

Each year the seniors at East Hill Christian School go on a two-day retreat to start out their final year of high school. This year, the students were able to visit the Historic St. Michael’s Cemetery where Pastor Rob from Marcus Pointe shared a devotional thought from God’s Word. Next, they visited the Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Students enjoyed learning about the lighthouse and climbing to the top to take in the breathtaking view! Later, the seniors, along with sponsors Mr. Roper and Mrs. Hitchcock, checked into beach condos and spent time fellowshipping and enjoying the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast. They played a large game of beach volleyball before gathering to watch the sunset and listen to Pastor Rob give another encouraging devotion. The following day, the seniors completed a sailing course and were able to sail solo and with a partner. The seniors sailed for hours and, at the end of the day, received a sailing certificate as beginner sailors! This retreat gave students the opportunity to learn new things, to work together, and to enjoy God’s incredible creation.They had a wonderful time and made many great memories. We love our EHCS seniors from the Class of 2022!

Santa Rosa Online Students Create

Some virtual elementary students from Santa Rosa Online were inspired to create beautiful things under the guidance of their art teacher, Mrs. Taylor.

Send school news and photos to: editor@greaterpensacola parents.com.

YOU SET THE TABLE,

WE DO THE REST! STRESS LESS MEAL we are here for you Ready to heat & serve holiday meals available to preorder @ cafe & customer service desk Downtown Pensacola 315 W Garden Street 850•438•0402

North Pensacola 1000 E Nine Mile Road 850•316•3700

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Autauga County Schools

Catholic Pep Rallies Encourage School Spirit

The Pensacola Catholic High School student body and faculty were so excited to gather for real “in-person” pep rallies prior to some of their home games this year. The student body assembled outdoors in the home stands of Gorecki-LeBeau Stadium on campus to cheer on their football team. Students were led in cheers by both the varsity and junior varsity cheerleaders accompanied by the Crusader Band. The CHS Dance Team also performed for the student body while the football players looked on. Students were seated by class and competed for cheering honors. Junior and senior classes usually won the competitions for being the loudest, with the sophomore and freshmen students progressively getting louder as the pep rallies continued and they began to understand what was “at stake.” It is always great to be a Crusader, but there is something about a pep rally that helps to remind us just how much!

St. Paul Kindergarten Self-Portraits

Kindergartners at St. Paul Catholic School created self-portraits in art class. Each student looked into a mirror as he or she drew. The kids had fun studying their own faces and adding their own special details to their portraits.

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Education towards our ultimate destiny.

BTWHS Cafeteria Uses Culinary Student Workers to Fill Employment Needs

At a time when Food Services is having difficulty filling a number of vacancies across the district, Elizabeth Gilmore and her Culinary Arts Academy students are able to assist in preparing meals for Booker T. Washington High School students each day. This collaboration between the BTWHS Culinary Arts Academy and the BTWHS Cafeteria was born several years ago, as Jaleena Davis, school food services director, and Kay Johnson, coordinator for school food services operations, shared their need for more food service workers. ECSD Workforce Education Specialist Aisha Adkison partnered with Food Services staff to develop the workforce pipeline for this opportunity. Today, there are nine BTWHS Culinary Arts Academy students participating in paid on-the-job training positions in the cafeteria at Washington. Participating students are fourth-year Culinary Arts Academy students, and seven of them are ServSafe certified, which is a management level food certification.

Now Enrolling Grades Pre-K through 8th!

Visit our website to schedule a tour! (850) 455-4851 | 6495 Lillian Hwy., Pensacola, FL 32506 Email: info@ptlittleflower.org

Pensacola Catholic Celebrates 80 Years

On September 14, Pensacola Catholic High School celebrated Catholic High’s 80th birthday! On that date in 1941 a student body of 170 assembled at the corner of Baylen and Garden streets downtown, where the school was located at the time, for their first day of school. In the fall of 1958 the school moved to its present location on West Scott Street, opening its doors to 485 students that year. This year’s enrollment is currently at 649. The past 80 years have seen a tremendous amount of growth and change in the world and our community. In 1987 our current principal, Sister Kierstin Martin, ASCJ., joined the faculty to teach chemistry and physics and then the following year was appointed principal. During her tenure/leadership, she has worked with both alumni and parent groups on various improvements to the physical campus, as well as the academic and student life offerings at Catholic High. Through these past 80 years, one thing has remained constant – our commitment to maintain the standards of excellence for which Catholic High has always been known. We strive every day to fulfill our mission: to develop responsible Christian individuals by providing the finest in Catholic education. 17

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While sports can provide a multitude of emotional and physical benefits for kids, specializing in a single sport at too early of an age can pose risks. How do you know when—or if— your child should specialize in a sport they love? Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

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What is sports specialization?

Brian Harvey, O.D., a pediatric sports medicine physician, says that sports specialization is defined as playing and competing in one single sport exclusively for more than eight months out of the year.

Advantages of multi-sport athletes. Some parents worry that their

children won’t have a competitive advantage later on if they don’t specialize early. Karen Hughey, co-founder and CEO of Team Cura, works with scholarshipseeking athletes and their parents. As a former sports parent, Hughey says both her children played a variety of sports. She and her husband left it up to their children to decide which ones they wanted to pursue as they got older. Although he was a talented golfer, her son Rob, co-founder of Team Cura, opted to quit golf early in his high school career to participate in other activities. But, by his junior year, he decided that he wanted to return to golf and play at the college level. “He had to work harder to reach out to college coaches at that point, but he still was fine,” Hughey says. “He found a great school and a great fit for himself. So, leave it up to your kids. They’ll find their way and figure it out.” From discussions with many high school and college coaches, Hughey has found that they tend to prefer recruiting multi-sport athletes. “I think football is probably the best example of not specializing,” Harvey says. “Ninety percent of the first-round draft picks are multi-sports athletes. They’re running track, playing basketball, wrestling. It certainly doesn’t hinder their ability to play professionally or get those college scholarships.”

Prevent injury. “We see that kids,

who have had experiences playing a multitude of sports, have fewer difficulties learning new skills and, generally, don’t suffer from the overuse injuries and burnout that are common with youth athletes specializing in one sport,” says physical therapist Tim Cummings, PT, DPT. An overuse injury occurs as a result of repetitive motion and impact on one area of the body. “Overuse injuries are those injuries that cause an athlete to lose more than a month of their sport,” Harvey says. “Those are the biggest ones that we see in the developing athletes who do sports specialization.” Cummings says the most common overuse injuries he sees in younger patients include ankle sprains, knee pain, 19

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Little Leaguer’s Elbow, ACL tears and Osgood-Schlatter. “Osgood-Schlatter is a traction injury on a special type of growth plate called an apophysis, which is at the top of the shin bone,” Cummings explains. “The traction comes from strong and relatively tight muscles that develop during puberty and high activity levels. Pain and sometimes swelling can be felt directly over a bump at the bottom of the knee.”

Avoid burnout. Participating in

different sports throughout the year is easier on developing bodies and kids are less likely to get bored or even anxious or depressed. “Athletes wanting to perform at their best, but not being able to, whether it’s due to injury or their fear of disappointing a coach or a parent or even themselves, plus that chronic daily physical demand, can lead to higher rates of burnout and quitting their sport,” Harvey says. To allow the body time to rest and recover, kids shouldn’t train for more than eight months out of the year. “And really try not to practice, train or compete more than their age in years per week,” Harvey says. (For example, no more than 12 hours per week for a 12-year-old.)

Striking a healthy balance between sports and other interests is also beneficial. “Some of the high school athletes we work with have stressed the importance of needing down time and being able to spend time with friends,” Hughey says.

Encourage free play. Whether

they toss a football around with friends, shoot hoops in the driveway, play tag, or make up competitive games, kids develop motor skills, creativity and social/emotional skills through unstructured play. “When we start to look at young athletes, the body really needs time to develop, to learn how to run, learn how to jump—really learn how to use their bodies and play,” Harvey says. “Instead of focusing on one exact sport, try a little bit of different types of sports. Learn how to be athletic first and foremost, and then really have fun with those sports.”

When to specialize. “This isn’t

a black and white, good or bad issue. Sports like figure skating, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics and diving require early specialization due to the high demand to acquire specific sports skills early on,” Cummings says. “Peak performance in these sports most often happens before reaching full physical maturity.”

But, he emphasizes that early specialization combined with decreased recovery time does put an athlete at increased risk for overuse injuries no matter the sport chosen. Harvey recommends parents gauge specialization readiness according to a child’s physical and mental maturity. Although he’d prefer kids waited until they were at least 12 (ideally 14 or 15), “there’s probably not a specific age that I would say is perfect,” he says. He says a child who is physically and mentally ready to specialize: • Is goal-oriented • Understands that the sport should be fun • Comprehends complex rules of the game • Recognizes the demand that a sport can put on the mind and the body • Can cope with those demands in a healthy way Above all, “you’ve got to listen to your children,” Hughey says. “Countless coaches have told us that you will know when the time is right. If you’re pushing it, it’s not the right time.” GPP

Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance writer. She and her husband are the parents of two active sons.

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Screen Time: A Quick “Win” To Help Parents Feel More in Control Do you feel like you can never stay on top of what your children are doing on their devices? Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about monitoring their ongoing social media activity, not to mention the 400 apps they use. Okay, let’s be honest, if your kids are older than nine, they are probably only REALLY interested in two apps… Snapchat and TikTok. In any case, I like to give parents what I call an “easy win” when it comes to monitoring their kids. We need something that helps us feel like we are providing some safety. We know we want them to be viewing age appropriate material and we do not want them to be on their devices ALL THE TIME. Have you ever heard yourself saying to your kid, “Get off the phone. Get off the phone. GET OFF OF THAT PHONE!” This is where we can have that “easy win”. First, though, let’s chat a minute about device use. The rise in anxiety, depression and suicide has been linked directly to constant unrestricted device time. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death among those in their late teens and early twenties. As parents, we want to protect our children, while also allowing them access to media so they don’t feel left behind. Where is the balance? And what can we do?

To start, children and teens should never have a device, any device, that is not monitored for both age related time AND content. The phone settings should be set so that at least the time allowed on the phone, and the information viewed online, coincides with the child’s or teen’s age. How do we do this? Set screen time on your child’s device. It is free and easy to do, as well as easy to monitor. Here are the steps you can follow to set screen time. In Settings on your child’s phone, scroll down to Screen Time. Click on it. Here you will find everything you need. First, you will want to scroll down and click on Screen Time Passcode. Set the passcode. Make sure it is one you can remember and your child will not figure out. This prevents them from making any changes to what you set on the phone. Next, go back to Screen Time and click on Down Time. Here you decide how much time your child gets to spend on his/her device. You can customize it by days, and drill down to hours. It is beautiful! When their allowed time is finished, an hourglass will pop up, and they will not have access to the phone until you have it set to “wake up” next. You can even put time limits on certain apps or completely restrict certain apps from the phone, as well as certain websites. 21

Next, go to Content and Privacy Restrictions. This allows you to set age appropriate restrictions for content. NOTE: This only monitors content online. It will not monitor the content coming through specific apps. You also want to go to the “Allow Changes” section under Content Restrictions. Click “Do Not Allow” on each one. This prevents your child from uploading or downloading any apps without permission. A quick secret… you will not hurt or break the phone, so spend time scrolling through Screen Time and looking at all it has to offer! The main thing to note is to always remember the passcode because it will lock you out if you forget. In addition to providing these protections, start having open conversations with your child. Start doing random device checks. Give yourself some support by putting in place monitoring systems that will make your job easier. Do not forget to rely on your support systems outside of tech as well... your friends, counselor, school, resource officers. It truly takes a village. If you find yourself needing extra support, I am here. Please do not hesitate to reach out!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

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Want to really make your kids happy? Teach them the importance of giving to others. Contrary to common belief that kids need and want more “stuff” to be happy, science tells us that it is the act of giving to others that actually boosts happiness and can even improve health and other areas of their lives. Believe it or not, children enter this world with a natural instinct to be compassionate to others. Scientists at the Max Planck Institute discovered that infants help others even though they are too young to have learned about being kind and polite. The children take action because of their own motivation, and not because they expect a reward. Do children continue to show compassion as they grow? A breakthrough study by psychologists at the University of British Columbia determined that young children are happier to give than to receive. Toddlers who were asked to give away their own treats expressed greater happiness when they shared with others. The researchers interpreted the results of this study to mean

that anytime people participate in pro-social behavior, such as volunteering and giving charitable donations, we experience an increase in happiness. Children have the foundation to be kind, but it’s our job as parents to continue to nurture this part of them as they grow. If we neglect to do so, negative life experiences can unfortunately tear down this beautiful instinct.

How Giving Transforms Our Kids Numerous studies have uncovered several ways that giving enhances our children’s lives.

Boosts Happiness: When we make others

happy by giving a gift or our support, we experience a physiological change called a helper’s high. It is a euphoric physical sensation resulting from our brain releasing chemicals called endorphins. According to Psychology Today, the helper’s high is a literal “high,” similar to a drug-induced sensation. It makes us feel good naturally, giving us a rush that leaves us elated and excited. This positive energy is similar to how we feel after exercising.

Improves Health: Research shows that

giving leads to better health. In his book Why Good Things Happen to Good People, Stephen Post, a professor of preventative medicine at Stony Brook University, explains that giving to others has been shown to increase health benefits in people with chronic illness. In addition, a 1999 study led by Doug Oman of the University of California, Berkeley suggests that giving may improve physical health because it helps reduce stress. Finally, a 2006 joint study by Johns Hopkins University and the University of Tennessee indicated that people who helped others had lower blood pressure t.

Promotes Social Connection: Several studies suggest that when we give, our

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Best Ways To Teach Children About Giving Teaching our children how to pay it forward is easier than you may think. There are endless opportunities to volunteer as a family and to give our children meaningful experiences that will enhance both their lives and the individuals they help. Here are some tips on how to incorporate giving into your children’s lives.

Discuss how they can help. Find a few

minutes during your day to ask your children who they would like to help. Provide some options like babies, animals, people without homes, children who do not have families, students who need books, or the elderly. Talk about the different types of projects you can do to help those in need. For some inspiration, read books about giving and kindness to your children.

Talk about the importance of charitable giving. If you choose to start

a monetary collection for charity, consider creating or buying giving boxes for each child. Ask them to set goals about how much they would like to give throughout the year and which organizations they would like to donate to. Check in weekly or monthly throughout the year to see how close they are to reaching their goal.

Help your children discover their passion. Our passion should drive how we

give because when we are excited about a project, we can put all of our heart and soul into it. Also, when we care about what we are working on, we will get more out of it and feel happier. Help your children identify their talents, skills, and interests that they can put to good use.

Find ways to volunteer as a family. By generosity is ultimately rewarded by others. These positive actions promote a sense of trust and cooperation that strengthens our relationships. Moreover, we feel a bond towards those we help. All of this is important because having positive social interactions is central to good mental and physical health.

Encourages an Attitude of Gratitude: When we give to those in need, we feel a sense of gratitude because it puts things in perspective. Volunteer work is a great opportunity for our children to appreciate what they have and gives them a glimpse of the broader world.

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

Meanwhile, gratitude is another very important ingredient for happiness and good health.

Gives Children the Opportunity to Inspire Others: Those who are on the

receiving end of a good deed typically want to pass along that positive feeling and help others. Researcher James Fowlerat the University of California, San Diego found that just one act of kindness can inspire several more acts of kindness by others. In this case, children have the opportunity to be a mentor to others, inspiring a chain of kindness and compassion. 24

volunteering as a family, you make giving a priority and build it into your children’s daily routine. You can find volunteer opportunities for your family by checking your local government website; searching for local charities in your area; asking friends and neighbors; or visiting sites like Idealist, VolunteerMatch, and JustServe. There is certainly no shortage of ways to help others. By providing our children with opportunities to give, they will be happier and healthier and have the power to pass along that goodness to so many people. GPP

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

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November 19

Story Tyme with Grandma Jenkins - A Turkey for Thanksgiving ad on page 13

December 3 & 15

should bring a second snack and lunch.

Story Tyme with Grandma Jenkins - A Loud Winter’s Nap/ Santa is Coming to Florida ad on page 13

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

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

@ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join Grandma Jenkins at 11:00am for holiday stories and cookies. Free public reading program. December 3: A Loud Winter’s Nap and December 17: Santa Claus is Coming to Florida

ad on Inside Back Cover

November 22-24

December 12

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

Play Pensacola Fall Break Camp

Pensacola Youth Ballet presents Our 2nd Annual “Very Merry Nutcracker Ball”

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

@ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join Grandma Jenkins at 11:00am for A Turkey for Thanksgiving book and cookies. Free public reading program. D 850-595-5985 (Ext 112) wdavis4@uwf.edu www.historicpensacola.org

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ E.S. Cobb Resource Center 601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, FL 32503 Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Please call for registration instructions. 850-436-5192 tbyrd@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Fall Break Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Fricker Resource Center 900 North F Street Pensacola, FL 32501 Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Please call for registration instructions. 850-436-5195 mmims@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

850-595-5985 (Ext 112) wdavis4@uwf.edu www.historicpensacola.org

ad on page 27

@ Court of De Luna Event Space 116 E Gonzalez St. Pensacola, FL 32501 Enjoy a Nutcracker themed dinner party with food from around the world, and live entertainment featuring the Pensacola Youth Ballet. There will be aerialists, a magician, stilt walker/juggler, a balloon artist, and Mr. Big and the Rhythm Sisters!! This is a great way to kick off your family’s Christmas holidays! 6:30-9:00pm, Tickets are $60 and $70 per person (includes dinner) 850-944-5650 frontdesk@labelleperformingarts.com https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-very-merry-nutcracker-ball-tickets-181932824977?aff=ebdssbeac

December 20-December 31

ad on Inside Back Cover

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

850-435-1750 rsmith@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

@ E.S. Cobb Resource Center 601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, FL 32503 Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration required. One snack will be provided. Campers

Play Pensacola Fall Break Camp @ Woodland Heights Resource Center 111 Berkley Drive Pensacola, FL 32503 Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Please call for registration instructions.

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Fricker Resource Center 900 North F Street Pensacola, FL 32501 Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration required. One snack will be provided. Campers should bring a second snack and lunch.

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Gull Point Resource Center 7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, FL 32504 Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration required. One snack will be provided. Campers should bring a second snack and lunch. 850-494-7360 tbrame@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Woodland Heights Resource Center 111 Berkley Drive Pensacola, FL 32503 Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts and more. Camp runs Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for children ages 5-12 years. Registration required. One snack will be provided. Campers should bring a second snack and lunch. 850-435-1750 rsmith@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

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November 5-7

November 19

November 26

Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival

Santa Arrives at Cordova Mall

Elf Parade & Fireworks

@ Seville Square 311 East Government St Pensacola, FL 32502 Arts, crafts, music & food. Friday & Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 9am - 4pm. Free admission. Children’s art & activities Saturday & Sunday from 10am - 4pm for ages toddler and older. news@ggaf.org www.ggaf.org

November 6 40th Annual Homemakers Holiday Fair @ Santa Rosa County Auditorium 4530 Spikes Way Milton, Milton 32583 The Homemakers Holiday Fair features crafts made by local artisans, homemade soup, sandwiches and desserts, and door prizes. 9am-3pm (850) 623-3868 www.navarrechamber.com/

Beulah Craft and Sausage Festival

@ First Baptist Church of Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526 Families are invited to come out for crafts, sausage dogs, funnel cakes, live music and even more family fun! From 9:00am-3:00pm. beulahmom3@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

November 11 - December 20 Play Pensacola Archery & Fishing Day Pensacola, FL Spend the day learning archery and fishing! Games, awards & prizes and lunch provided. Ages 7 - 14. $40 per city resident; $450 per nonresident. 8:00am - 4:00pm. 850-436-5692

www.playpensacola.com

November 13 Pine Forest Arts & Crafts Festival

@ Pine Forest UMC 2800 Wilde Lake Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32526 Arts, crafts, door prizes, vendors, and more. Admission and parking is free to the public. Proceeds benefit church and community ministries. 9am- 3pm. 850-944-0170 www.pineforestumc.org

November 13, 20, 27 & December 4, 11, 18 Alyssa’s Holiday Market Events

@ Alyssa’s, The Refinery & Alyssa’s Etc. 4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571 Get a head start on your Christmas lists with our Holiday Markets. Visit us online or check our Facebook page. Market times: 9am - 3pm. 850-994-9114 shopalyssas@gmail.com www.shopalyssas.com

November 17 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 This year’s show will feature all of your favorite original classic Christmas hits from the first Mannheim Steamroller Christmas album, along with multimedia effects in an intimate setting. 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

@ Cordova Mall 5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Santa arrives at Cordova Mall! 850-477-7562 courtney.radcliffe@simon.com www.cordovamall.com

November 19-21 NWF Ballet Presents The Nutcracker

@ Mattie Kelly Arts Center- Main Hall 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 A family favorite along the Coast marking the start of the holiday season. Purchase tickets online. Friday & Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 2:30pm. 850-226-8072 office@nfballet.org www.nfballet.org

November 19 and December 17 Gallery Night Shop Local Event

@ Palafox street between Garden & Main Pensacola, FL 32502 Our Shop Local event from 5:00pm - 9:00pm will feature artists, music, twinkling lights and more! Gallery Night is a free, public event for all ages. boardmember@gallerynightpensacola.org www.gallerynightpensacola.org

November 20 Pancakes with Santa and Holiday Market @ Gulf Coast Kid’s House 3401 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503 Come join us for a morning of merriment! Holiday vendors will be on-site. Santa will be there for photos and enjoy a delicious pancake dish.$5 per person, children 3 and under eat free. 8:00am12:00pm 850-595-5800 outreach@gulfcoastkidshouse.org www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org

November 21, 26-28 December 3-4, 10, 18-19, 21-24 Winterfest Activities

@ Downtown Pensacola 223 South Palafox Street Pensacola , FL 32502 Wander along the streets throughout the holidays and see live street performances, concerts and more! Santa and Grinch photos, Polar Express, Grinch Tour, Cajun Christmas and Scrooge Tour (Dec 21-24), and more!

@ Downtown Pensacola 223 South Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Watch or join the Winterfest elf parade! More fun after with a festive show, fun characters, and fireworks display! Lineup and contest judging at 4, 5pm Lights and Snow, 6pm Tours and Games

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

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Toys for Tots - Gulf Breeze Zoo

@ Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 50% off each admission with an acceptable new toy donation from each guest.9am-4pm 850-932-2229 info@gulfbreezezoo.org www.gbzoo.com

November 26-January 5 Magic Christmas in Lights

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Join us for the 26th season.The dazzling nighttime display features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 16 scenes, set out in a walking tour throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. 251-973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

November 27-December 27 Sowell’s North Pole Christmas Light Display

7650 Sowell Road Milton, FL 32570 A drive through Christmas light show. $15 per car. Train rides for an additional $2/person. Open nightly 5:00pm - 9:00pm. www.facebook.com/sowellsnorthpole

November 28 Pensacola Symphony presents: Home for the Holidays Featuring Ashley Brown @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Join the festivities as we celebrate the return of Broadway sensation and Gulf Breeze-native Ashley Brown for this special holiday concert. With traditional favorites and holiday hits, and a special appearance by the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. 3pm 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

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

November 30

November 25

1st Olde Towne Holiday Jubilee

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@ Daphne Civic Center 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL 36526 The 1st Olde Towne Holiday Jubilee for W.J. Carroll Intermediate and Daphne Elementary Schools will be held on November 30 at the Daphne Civic Center Vendors are needed for this fundraising event that will benefit both W.J. Carroll Intermediate and Daphne Elementary Schools.

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

December 2

Turkey Trot

Wreaths of Joy Gala

info@runpensacola.com runpensacola.com/event/ turkey-trot/

850-434-2638

Pensacola Beach Trot for Thought

@ Pensacola Beach 2200 Via De Luna Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 An annual 5k event held on Thanksgiving Day. Proceeds from this run benefit brain cancer research. This race is a fun, competitive family-friendly event that offers a variety of activities for all ages.

@ Seville Square 399 S Alcaniz St Pensacola, Fl 32502 5K Race-Walk through historic downtown Pensacola. Post Race Party, awards, food and drinks. 8am

@ Pensacola Bay Center 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Enjoy a three-course dinner, entertainment, auctions, and more! Proceeds support the many programs at The Arc Gateway www.arc-gateway.org

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December 4 2021 Sport & Wheat, CPA, PA Milton Christmas Parade

Highway 87 (Stewart Street) Milton, FL 32570 2021 Sport & Wheat, CPA, PA Milton Christmas Parade Parade rolls at 6pm. Information/Registration: (850) 623-2339, www.srcchamber.com. 850-623-2339 membership@srcchamber.com www.srcchamber.com

Breakfast and Skating with Santa

@ Weber’s Skate World 6056 Stewart Street Milton, FL 32570 Breakfast, pictures and skating with Santa! Limited Tickets. 8am - 10am. $10.00 per person includes admission, skate rental, Santa visit, and breakfast. 850-626-4070 WebersSkateWorld@gmail.com www.weberskateworld.com

Choral Society of Pensacola’s Her Christmas

@ Cathedral of the Sacred Heart 1212 E. Moreno St. Pensacola, FL 32503 Welcome the holidays with a program of sacred works spanning five centuries, all arranged and composed by women. 7:30p.m 850-484-1806 www.choralsocietyofpensacola.org

K-LOVE Christmas

@ Pensacola Bay Center 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL 32502 Awakening Events and the Awakening Foundation are excited to once again partner with K-LOVE Radio for their annual Christmas Tour. 7pm 850-432-0800 ext.224 www.pensacolabaycenter.com

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Lighted Boat Parade

@ Sabine Marina to Pensacola Beach Boardwalk Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Boat Parade at 6:30pm. See Santa on the lead boat! After the parade a dazzling firework display will take place along the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk at 8 p.m!! 850-932-1500 info@visitpensacolabeach.com www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Navarre Christmas in the Park

@ Navarre Park 8513 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566 Gifts, concessions, and more. Cookies and hot chocolate, games, cake walk, face painting and more. 10am-4pm.

850-939-3267 info@navarrechamberfoundation.org www.navarrechamber.com

Navarre Community Christmas Parade

@ Navarre Library Navarre, FL 32566 Parade at 1pm at the Navarre Library and end in the back parking lot of Centennial Bank. Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with “The Grinch” will arrive by fire truck and will be available for photos with children. www.navarrechamber.com

Navarre Jingle Bell Run

@ Holley-Navarre Fire Station 8618 Esplanade Street Navarre, FL 32566 Navarre Chamber Foundation will help you start your holiday season with “Bells on” with this Family Fun Run through the local neighborhood. 8:00am start. Registration available online.

850-939-3267 info@navarrechamberfoundation.org www.Navarrechamberfoundation.org

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

The Prophecy Show: the Music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra

December 10

@ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 7:00pm-Launching their 15th touring season of an extravagant Christmas musical production! This powerhouse group of classically trained musicians come together to create nothing short of an electrifying evening of holiday rock music.

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra “Holiday Pops”

850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

December 10-12

December 4, 11 Jingle Jangle Kindermusik Family Play Date

Pace, FL Come sing, dance, play instruments, and ring in the holiday cheer in your favorite holiday pajamas! $15 per child ($25 for two children). Cost includes one 45 minute class, small instrument, and a holiday music download card). Pre-purchase required online at: www.bythebay. kindermusik.com kmbythebay@gmail.com www.bythebay.kindermusik.com

December 5 Caring Santa at Cordova Mall

@ Cordova Mall 5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 A time for children with special needs and their families to visit with Santa and have a photo taken. The environment will accommodate the needs of the children. 9:30-11AM. Registration required and can be made online at https://cordovamallsanta.splashthat.com/

850-477-7562 courtney.radcliffe@simon.com www. cordovamall.com

Snowflake Luncheon and Holiday Shopping Spree

@ Asbury Place (behind Cokesbury Church) 5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL The Silent Auction “Holiday Shopping” will offer some great Holiday decorations, special treasures, jewelry and more. Homemade soups, salads and desserts will be $7 p.p. or $20 per family. Children under 5 years of age are free. 12 noon to 2 p.m. Tickets available at Cokesbury Church or call 850-602-7885 or email beedecarol@gmail.com. 850-602-7885 beedecarol@gmail.com

Surfing Santa Beach Parade

@ Via de Luna to Casino Beach Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Surfing Santa Beach Parade at 2pm.

850-932-1500 info@visitpensacolabeach.com www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

December 9 - 19 Emerald Coast Theatre presents “Miracle on 34th Street: a Live Musical Radio Play”

@ Emerald Coast Theatre 560 Grand Boulevard (Suite 200) Miramar Beach, FL 32550 Staged as a live radio play, “Miracle on 34th Street” is the classic Christmas cup of cheer we all look forward to during the holiday season. Thurs.Sat-7:30pm, Sundays- 2:30pm, Sunday Dec.192:30pm, 7:30pm 850-684-0323 info@emeraldcoasttheatre.org www. emeraldcoasttheater.org

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

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

bounce stations, visits from Santa, live music and entertainment, a Candy Cane Market full of gifts, sights, smells, and tastes of the season, including unique gifts from local artists and delicious holiday treats 850-932-2229 info@gulfbreezezoo.org www.gbzoo.com

December 31 LuLu’s Noon Year’s Eve Celebration!

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Christmas on the Coast

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

850-434-7760 admin@pensacolachildrenschorus. com www.pensacolachildrenschorus.com

December 11 Billy Claus visits LuLu’s!

@ Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s will read a Christmas story at 1:45, and listen to your wish list! Billy will arrive at 2pm! Bring a toy to donate to LuLu’s Toy Drive. Lulu’s boat parade starts at dusk. 251-967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Candlelight Night 2021

@ Alyssa’s, The Refinery & Alyssa’s Etc. 4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571 We transform the store into a magical “Christmas Village” by shopping only by Christmas lights, candle lights, and lamps with all the overhead lights turned off. We charge $5 or 10 canned goods. 6pm-8pm 850-994-9114 shopalyssas@gmail.com www.shopalyssas.com

Christmas Parade Dash

Garden St Pensacola, FL 32502 A Holiday tradition for the whole family. Run or walk the one-mile course then stay to enjoy the Pensacola Annual Christmas Parade. Costumes are strongly encouraged. runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/2021PRA ChristmasParadeDash

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

@ Downtown Pensacola Enjoy floats, bands from Escambia County, and New Orleans. Also featuring the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from around the region. 5:15pm-8:00pm. lew@coxpensacolachristmasparade.org www.coxpensacolachristmasparade.org

@ Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Noon Year’s is a FREE family event for all ages. Kid friendly activities begin at 10:00am with a beach ball drop at NOON! See you there! 251-967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Pensacola Symphony Presents: Celebrate the New Year!

@ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 End the year on a high note with the timeless music of Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald! Trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling returns to the Saenger stage with Grammy nominee Carmen Bradford to take you on a journey that features the hits of two incomparable jazz legends. 7pm 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

Reelin’ In the New Year - NYE Street Party @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Reel in 2022 with us at The Wharf for our New Year’s Eve Street Party. Live bands, family friendly and adult-centered fun all rounding off at midnight with our marlin drop and fireworks. 251-224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

January 1 Polar Bear Dip

@ Flora Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Wear a crazy costume, bring the whole family and take a New Year plunge into the Gulf of Mexico! No registration is required. 12:00pm - 3:00pm.

850-492-0611 info@florabama.com www.florabama.com/events.html

December 11 - 12, 18 - 19 Christmas Zoobile

@ Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Christmas ZOObilee includes winter-themed

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Holiday Ice Skating

@ Pensacola Bay Center 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Enjoy an hour of skating at the Pensacola Bay Center while experiencing the holiday ambience. Please visit website for a listing of most up-to date times and prices. 850-432-0800 sjette@pcolabaycenter.com www.pensacolabaycenter.com/ice-skating/publicskate-sessions

Santa Drop

@ Flora Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Kick-off the Christmas season watching Santa skydive onto the beach and enjoy activities for kids in the Flora-Bama tent. 11am - 2pm.

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Weekends and select event dates; November 12 - December 24 Photos with Santa at the Wharf

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Ho Ho Holiday photo time with Santa at The Wharf! Children can also bring their wish list letters to give to the Jolly Claus or write one in his village. Open Fridays (3-6 pm), Saturdays (10am– 6pm) and Sunday (noon–6pm). Times subject to change. 251-224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

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2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Show 8 a.m. gates open. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show will be held at Pensacola Beach. Today is Breakfast with the Blues for circles and arrivals. For more info, call (850) 4341234 or visit https://visitpensacolabeach.com/whatshappening-blue-angels-homecoming/.

Thursday, November 4

2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Show 8 a.m. gates open. Today is Arrival Day and Dress Rehearsal. For details, see November 3 listing. 37th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival Features more than 200 nationally acclaimed songwriters in venues along the Florida/Alabama Gulf Coast through November 14. The festival is an opportunity for seasoned and aspiring songwriters and musicians to have their songs heard, and for the public to learn the stories behind the lyrics that only the song’s author can express. Performers will be hosted in more than 20 venues along the Florida/Alabama Gulf Coast. For more info, call (850) 492-7664 or visit www.frankbrownsongwriters.com. Pensacola MESS Hall: Clue Night at the Museum Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show begins at 7 p.m. Can you separate fact from farce? Join Pensacola MESS Hall & ICMTheatre in a Clue-style murder mystery that will keep you on your toes as you investigate clues, solve puzzles and interrogate suspects to deduce whodunnit in this interactive mystery show. Presented with light refreshments. For more info, visit https://www. foofoofest.com/. Foo Foo Festival 2021 226 S Palafox St. A 12-day celebration each fall, with culturally creative happenings, events and moments under one banner, attracting visitors to 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, visit https://www.foofoofest.com/.

Friday, November 5

University of West Florida Department of Theatre presents Shakespeare in Love 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Building 82, on the UWF Pensacola Campus. For details, see October 30 listing. 2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Show 8 a.m. gates open. Today is Homecoming Air Show Day 1. For details, see November 3 listing. The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Seville Square Park, 311 E. Government St. The three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the country’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen and other artists. Live performances include bluegrass, Cajun, jazz, blues and classical. Dance performances include folk, ballet and more. For more info, visit http://www.ggaf.org/.

Saturday, November 6

Highway 87 Outdoor Market at Pik-itz 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1922 Highway 87, Navarre. This biweekly outdoor market takes place on first and third Saturdays. Farm to Table vendors are available along with arts and crafts. For more info, call (850) 710-7128 or visit www.pikitz.com.

200 South Small Business Saturday All day the first Saturday of each month. 200 South Palafox Pl., Pensacola. Bring in a receipt from a purchase made from another downtown business and receive 10% off your bill at 200 South. This is redeemable at Graffiti Pizza, World of Beer, Taco Agave and Blend Lounge. Must be a receipt dated that specific Saturday and can only be redeemed that same day. *Limit one discount total. For more info, find us on Facebook. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents: Variations & Virtuosity at the Pensacola Saenger 7:30 p.m. Experience a celebration of incredible music and artistry! We will be joined by violinist Geneva Lewis for Dvořák’s Violin Concerto, a brilliant, virtuosic work with irrepressible energy. The program also includes Ravel’s light yet reflective Le Tombeau de Couperin and Ginastera’s Variaciones concertantes, inspired by Argentine folk music. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/. 37th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival Features more than 200 nationally acclaimed songwriters in venues along the Florida/Alabama Gulf Coast through November 14. For details, see November 4 listing. The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Seville Square Park, 311 E. Government St. For details, see November 5 listing. 2021 Blue Angels Homecoming Show 8 a.m. gates open. Today is Homecoming Air Show Day 2. For details, see November 3 listing. University of West Florida Department of Theatre presents Shakespeare in Love 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Building 82, on the UWF Pensacola Campus. For details, see October 30 listing.

BrunchFest 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Seville Quarter in Downtown Pensacola The first-ever BrunchFest benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast (BGCEC) presented by Cox Media and StarPoint Screening. Tickets: $25 for adults and $15 for kids (5-16 years old). For more info, call (850) 684-2045 or find us on Eventbrite. Free Yoga in Community Maritime Park 9:30-10:30 a.m. First Sunday of each month. Classes are open to all ages and levels of experience. Certified instructors from Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center will provide instruction. The class is free, but you will need to BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat) and a bottle of water. Please arrive early. For more info, find us on Facebook. The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Seville Square Park, 311 E. Government St. For details, see November 5 listing. Pensacola Children’s Business Fair Noon-3 p.m. Downtown Pensacola (Palafox Market). A unique one-day marketplace where kids are the boss! Admission is free to the public, walkable, and familyfriendly. Young entrepreneurs ages 5-17 are challenged to open businesses ranging from selling slime to babysitting services, handmade dolls to body scrubs, vegan dog treats and everything in between — to create a melting pot of young creativity and experiential learning. For more info, visit https://www.foofoofest.com/.

Thursday, November 11

Open Mic at The Gordon 7-10 p.m. 306 N DeVilliers St., Pensacola. Free, no admission charged. Come join in as a performer or audience participant! Performers can sign up for a time slot when they arrive. Come be inspired by the creativity and talent of our local artists in a safe environment! For more info, call (850) 857-8961 or visit https://downtownpensacola.com/.

Pensacola Ice Flyers Season 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Follow the Ice Flyers on the Team Website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for continued news and updates about the club. Also visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/.

From Sea To Shining Sea: A Salute To Service 3:30-5 p.m. Hunter Amphitheater at Community Maritime Park. Pensacola Opera presents a FREE special Veterans’ Day concert to celebrate and honor our community’s veterans. Featuring: Pensacola Opera Artists in Residence, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Pensacola Opera Chorus, Choral Society of Pensacola and Pensacola Children’s Chorus. For more info, visit www.foofoofest.com/.

Shark School 9-10:30 a.m. Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, 8740 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach. Explore local Gulf Coast sharks, shark biology, and shark conservation at NBSTCC’s Shark School! Each program accommodates up to 12 “enrolled students” and a guest/parent or guardian. $15 per Shark School Student/Participant and $5 per guest/parent/guardian. For more info and to register, visit www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org/programs or call (850) 684-3347.

A Celebration of Art: An Immersive 3D Projection Experience Every half-hour between 7 and 9:30 p.m. through November 14. Exterior facades of The Little Theatre and Museum of Art, S. Jefferson St., between Zaragoza and E. Main St. Fusing virtual and live performances, both the Cultural Center and the Museum of Art will come alive with Disney-like projections bouncing back and forth between the two jails-turned-arts-organizations, offering a free, open-aired double-trouble 3D-mapping art show. For more info, visit www.foofoofest.com/.

Sunday, November 7

Friday, November 12

Pensacola Women’s Half Marathon 7 a.m. Plaza Del Luna, 900 S Palafox St., Pensacola. A Mile Dash, 5K and Half Marathon, goodie bags with next-level swag, course music to keep runners moving, delicious food, and an innovative and impressive packet pick-up with surprises in store. For more info, call (850) 434-2800 or visit https://pensacolasports.org/pensacolawomenshalf/. University of West Florida Department of Theatre presents Shakespeare in Love 2:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Building 82, on the UWF Pensacola Campus. For details, see October 30 listing.

Art Academy for Autism 4-5:30 p.m. for ages 16 and up. Pensacola Museum of Art. Designed for children and adults on the autism spectrum. Our program focuses on nurturing artistic development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Free for students through generous support from Autism Pensacola. For more info, call (850) 432-6247 or visit www. pensacolamuseum.org/2021classes.html.

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

FamilyCalendar Something Rotten! Presented By PSC Performing Arts 7:30 p.m. Pensacola State College Ashmore Auditorium. Set in 1595, the story follows the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, who struggle to find success in the theatrical world as they compete with the wild popularity of their contemporary, William Shakespeare. For more info, visit https://www.foofoofest.com/. Murder Ballad, Presented by Penarts 7:30 p.m. The Gordon Community Art Center. In the vein of the classic murder ballad genre, using the metaphor of a deck of cards, this musical amps up the energy to produce a tale of love gone awry. “A king, a queen, a club, a knave…one is destined for the grave.” A fun murder mystery told through pop-rock music! For more info, visit https://www.foofoofest.com/. A Celebration of Art: An Immersive 3D Projection Experience Every half-hour between 7 and 9:30 p.m. through November 14. Exterior facades of The Little Theatre and Museum of Art, S. Jefferson St., between Zaragoza and E. Main St. For details, see November 11 listing.

Saturday, November 13

Art Academy for Autism 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for ages 5-9; 1:30-3 p.m. for ages 10-15. Pensacola Museum of Art. For details, see October 30 listing. Preschool Art and Storytime 10-11 a.m. Second Saturday each month. West Florida Public Library. During this free event, a librarian reads selections of similarly themed books and encourage movement and participation. Afterward, an art educator leads parents and preschoolers in a related craft. For ages 2-5 years old. Capacity is limited to 10 pairs - one guardian and one child, and pre-registration is required. Masks are recommended. For more info, call (850) 432-6247 or visit https://pensacolamuseum.org/. 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/. Ping Pong on Palafox, Hosted by Zarzaur Law 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Intersection of Palafox and Romana Streets. An outdoor table tennis “ping pong” tournament for all ages and levels, games, refreshments for players, and more right in the heart of Downtown Pensacola! The roundrobin tournament will kick off with kids’ age groups and adult divisions with cash prizes for winners. The first 50 registered players are guaranteed a swag bag and T-shirt. This event is FREE for spectators! For more info, visit https://www.foofoofest.com/.

Something Rotten! Presented By PSC Performing Arts 7:30 p.m. Pensacola State College Ashmore Auditorium. For details, see November 12 listing. Murder Ballad, Presented by Penarts 7:30 p.m. The Gordon Community Art Center. For more info, see November 12 listing. A Celebration of Art: An Immersive 3D Projection Experience Every half-hour between 7 and 9:30 p.m. through November 14. Exterior facades of The Little Theatre and

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

Museum of Art, S. Jefferson St., between Zaragoza and E. Main St. For details, see November 11 listing.

and many more! PFor tickets or more info, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/.

Pensacola Ice Flyers Season 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. For details, see November 6 listing.

Monday, November 15

Perdido Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair & Flicks on the Field Noon-7 p.m. Innerarity Point Park, 5828 Cruzat Rd., Pensacola. Browse the vendor booths at the Perdido Area Community Craft & Vendor Fair followed by a special holiday Flicks on the Field outdoor movie night. From noon until 5 p.m., explore locally sourced crafts and items to spark your holiday shopping spirit! Locals, Community organizations and businesses are invited to set up a booth and showcase art, crafts and merchandise to local families. After the craft and vendor fair winds down, everyone is invited to enjoy the movie from their blankets and lawn chairs for a free showing of a special Holiday Flicks on the Field! For more info, call (850) 4924660 or visit https://business.perdidochamber.com/. Woman’s Club of Pensacola Market Place 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Holiday Market Place at the Woman’s Club of Pensacola, 1551 E Heinberg St. Get all of your holiday shopping done in one place. Wonderful artists, crafters and specialty vendors present. For more info, call (850) 450-2970 or find us on Facebook. Pensacola MESS Hall Curiosity Day 1-4 p.m. Unique hands-on activities include ways to try the science and think creatively about the world around you. Most activities designed for ages 6+. Today’s topic is “Games Unplugged.” No registration required. For more info, visit https://pensacolamesshall.org/ or call (877) 937-6377.

Sunday, November 14

A Celebration of Art: An Immersive 3D Projection Experience Every half-hour between 7 and 9:30 p.m. through November 14. Exterior facades of The Little Theatre and Museum of Art, S. Jefferson St., between Zaragoza and E. Main St. For details, see November 11 listing. Something Rotten! Presented By PSC Performing Arts 2:30 p.m. Pensacola State College Ashmore Auditorium. For details, see November 12 listing. Murder Ballad, Presented by Penarts 2:30 p.m. The Gordon Community Art Center. For more info, see November 12 listing. Eggfest 2021 Returns To Blue Wahoos Stadium Noon-3 p.m. Guests have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of foods prepared on Big Green Egg Grills by 50 competing teams of talented chefs and BBQ pitmasters. In previous years, the open-ended, chef’schoice sampling menu has included briskets, smoked oysters, salmon, shrimp, paella, jambalaya, tenderloins, and even a variety of desserts, each prepared on Big Green Eggs. The 2021 EggFest will benefit the Rally! Foundation, Manna Food Pantry, and Studer Community Institute. Tickets are available now for $25 at BlueWahoos.com. Woman’s Club of Pensacola Market Place 1-6 p.m. Holiday Market Place at the Woman’s Club of Pensacola, 1551 E Heinberg St. For details, see November 13 listing. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents All Together Now 7:30 p.m. A fantastic selection of songs are featured in this brand-new musical revue from shows including Rent, Les Misérables, Into the Woods, Matilda, Hairspray, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof, Once on This Island, Little Shop of Horrors, Mamma Mia!

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents All Together Now 7:30 p.m. For details, see November 14 listing.

Wednesday, November 17

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. This year’s show will feature all of your favorite original classic Christmas hits from the first Mannheim Steamroller Christmas album, along with multimedia effects in an intimate setting. Tickets begin at $58. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/.

Thursday, November 18

University of Florida IFAS Extension Science Hour Noon-1 p.m. via Facebook Live. The University of Florida IFAS Extension Escambia County is the liaison between research conducted by scientists at the University of Florida and our local community. Visit https:// www.facebook.com/escambia.extension to watch the presentation. For more info about Science Hour, contact Carrie at (850) 475-5230 or ctsteven@ufl.edu.

Friday, November 19

The Gulf Breeze Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Meets the third Friday of every month at Beef O’Brady’s, 344 Gulf Breeze Parkway in Gulf Breeze. Program includes education segments and presentations by local business women. Lunch is not provided. Call (850) 529-0908 or Visit https:// powerfulwomengulfcoast.com/. Live on Tour: Terrence K. Williams at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre 8 p.m. Comedian and internet sensation Terrence K. Williams brings his sensational brand of humor tackling life and politics in an uproarious show which will have you laughing all night and for days after! Tickets begin at $45. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/. Gallery Night Pensacola 5-10 p.m. Third Fridays. South Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. For more info, visit https://gallerynightpensacola.org/ or find us on Facebook.

Saturday, November 20

Highway 87 Outdoor Market at Pik-itz 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1922 Highway 87, Navarre. This biweekly outdoor market takes place on first and third Saturdays. For details, see November 6 listing. Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents Foreigner - The Greatest Hits 7:30 p.m. Founded in 1976, Foreigner‘s debut album produced the hits “Feels Like The First Time,” “Cold As Ice” and “Long, Long Way From Home.” The album Double Vision followed, as did a string of hits including “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero” and “Waiting For A Girl Like You.” Tickets begin at $50. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/. LEAPS New Mom Support Group 10-11:30 a.m. 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

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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FamilyCalendar in activities that promote balance, stress management, and overall wellness. Guest speakers and selfcare activities will be provided and are free of cost. Pre-crawling babies welcome. Free. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Ever’man Cooks! Debby’s Kitchen 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monthly on the third Saturday. Ever’man Educational Center, 315 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. This class is for the novice cook at any age. It will be educational, fun & offer basic knife & sauce skills. Cost: $5. For more info, call (850) 4335353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Shark School 9-10:30 a.m. Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, 8740 Gulf Blvd., Navarre Beach. For more info, see November 6 listing. Pensacola Ice Flyers Season 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. For details, see November 6 listing. Cordova Rotary Hosts Annual Pancakes with Santa & Holiday Market 8 a.m.-noon at Gulf Coast Kid’s House, 3401 N. 12th Ave. For children of all ages. Proceeds of the event will benefit Gulf Coast Kid’s House. A pancake breakfast will be available to purchase at the event for $5 per person. Children 3 and younger are free. For more info or to become a vendor, visit www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org/child-abuse-prevention-events/.

Wednesday, November 24

Pensacola Ice Flyers Season 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. For details, see November 6 listing.

Friday, November 26

Toys for Tots at Gulf Breeze Zoo 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 50% off the cost of zoo ticket with Toys for Tots donation. For more info, visit https://www. gbzoo.com/ or call (850) 932-2229. Gulf Coast Blues Fest Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway. For more info, call (850) 503-5766 or visit https://gulfcoastbluesfest.com/. Winterfest 5-9 p.m. 223 Palafox Place. Pensacola’s historic downtown streets—lit up during the holidays with more than half a million white lights—form a magical backdrop for Winterfest, an iconic celebration that kicks off with the Elf Parade and ends on Christmas Eve, offering up a daily supply of live performances, holiday trolley tours, cascades of “snow,” Santa and and a cast of holiday characters and more. For more info, visit https://pensacolawinterfest.org.

Saturday, November 27 Natural Healing/Cancer Study

Gulf Coast Blues Fest Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway. For details, see November 26 listing. 200 South Outdoor Market 3-8 p.m. 200 South Palafox Place, Pensacola. Every month we will have local creatives featuring their newest creations, including: macrame, homemade baked goods, pet treats and accessories, jewelry, vintage clothing for men and women, art, photography, girls’ clothing and accessories. For more info, find us on Facebook.

Sunday, November 28

Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents Home for the Holidays Featuring Ashley Brown 3 p.m. Celebrate the return of Broadway sensation and Gulf Breeze native Ashley Brown for this special holiday concert. With traditional favorites and holiday hits, and a special appearance by the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. Tickets begin at $22. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/. Gulf Coast Blues Fest Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway. For details, see November 26 listing.

Wednesday, December 1

Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents Champions of Magic: The Worldwide Wonders Tour 7:30 p.m. The Champions of Magic team presents incredible interactive magic, an impossible escape from Houdini’s water torture cell, a mind-blowing prediction that has to be seen to be believed, levitation high above the stage, and a finale beyond explanation. The show features spectacular illusions that can’t be seen anywhere else. Tickets begin at $38. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/.

Thursday, December 2

Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents Forever Motown 7:30 p.m. Direct from New York featuring Theo Peoples, former lead singer of The Four Tops, and Glen Leonard, former lead singer of The Temptations. A fabulous cast backed by a band of incredible musicians representing Motown royalty. Tickets begin at $38. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/.

choreography, music, lasers and fog. Tickets begin at $58. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www. pensacolasaenger.com/. Season Your Holidays Lighted Boat Parade 6:30 p.m. Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce, 7 Casino Beach Boardwalk. View the parade procession, starting from Sabine Marina in Little Sabine Bay to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk on the Santa Rosa Sound. Look for Santa on the lead boat! Fireworks with Santa start on the Sound side at 8 p.m. For more info, call (850) 932-1500. Art Academy for Autism 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for ages 5-9; 1:30-3 p.m. for ages 10-15. Pensacola Museum of Art. For details, see October 30 listing.

Every Tuesday This Month

Story Sprouts Preschool Fun 10-11 a.m. 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. Free. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Funky Yoga Flow 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 7:30 p.m. Seville Quarter, 130 East Government Street. Featuring various jazz vocalists and musicians weekly. The jazz concert will start in the Lili Marlene room. For info, call (850) 434-6211 or visit www.sevillequarter.com/.

Every Saturday This Month

Art Academy for Autism 4-5:30 p.m. for ages 16 and up. Pensacola Museum of Art. For details, see November 12 listing.

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, call (850) 434-5371 or visit www.palafoxmarket.com.

Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents Heather McMahan: The Farewell Tour 8 p.m. Your favorite high-functioning hot mess comedian is live, liberated, and doing the most and the least at the same time. Tickets begin at $32. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/.

Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Berryhill Road next to Locklin Technical School and Friendship Baptist Church. Providing local goods, including seasonal produce, eggs, chicken, jams, jellies, home-baked treats, fresh breads, honey, pickles and local arts and craft items. For more info, call (850) 398-2558 or find us on Facebook.

Saturday, December 4

Pensacola Uptown Market 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 7201 N 9th Ave A5, Pensacola. With more than 50 vendors and growing every week. Trader Bo’s, along with Uptown Market and Green with Envy, host vendors from the area that include arts, crafts, antiques, collectibles & MORE! Several of the area’s popular food trucks are always here, too. Parking is free! Vendors will be set up along the covered store fronts and under canopies on the grass. For more info, visit www.uptown.market/events or call (850) 912-8030.

Friday, December 3

Pensacola Ice Flyers Season 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. For details, see November 6 listing.

Pensacola Bay Center Presents K-Love Christmas 7 p.m. A star-studded lineup including CASTING CROWNS, Mac Powell, CAIN, Dante Bowe & Jordan St. Cyr. Altrua Health-Share and Food For The Hungry will also be part of the tour. For info, visit http://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/ or call (850) 432-0800. Pensacola Saenger Theatre Presents The Prophecy Show - Music of Trans Siberian Orchestra 7 p.m. This powerhouse group of classically trained musicians come together to create an electrifying evening of holiday rock music. Performing in the style of Trans Siberian Orchestra, The Prophecy Show has spared no details when it comes to the costumes,

Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19 , please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

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Can I Protect Myself Against Inflation?

A. When people start talking about inflation, it seems like there are always some who want to start collecting gold, fill every container they own with gasoline and stick their cash under their mattresses. But listen, you can prepare for inflation and address the results without being panicked. You are still in control of your money, inflation or not. You’ll be able to make sure your money is going toward the right things, while being able to find places where you can cut spending, if you’re living on a written, monthly budget. If you’re noticing the prices of things like food

and gas rising in your area, you’ll need to adjust your budget to account for this. That way, you’ll know exactly what you’re working with, and it will help you avoid any nasty surprises. If you’re really feeling the pinch and want to save even more, look for specific ways to lower your grocery bill or save money on gas. Maybe it’s time you switched to generic brands, or started a carpool into work. If you find great deals on canned food and things you can stock your pantry with— I’m talking about stuff you’ll actually use—go ahead and buy a little extra. Just make sure you’ve budgeted for it before heading to the grocery store. You’ll want

Greater Pensacola Parents I November 2021

Q. All the talk on the news about inflation is a little scary. Is there any way to protect yourself against it on a day-to-day basis?

to already know exactly what you’re going to spend, so you don’t get swept up into impulse buying. Like it or not, inflation is a thing. If you plan on retiring one day, it’s pretty much guaranteed that the cost of a loaf of bread, a tank of gas and even a cup of coffee will have gone up by then. The best way to protect yourself against inflation that’s bound to happen is to invest your money—and the sooner the better. But remember, if you still have debt other than your mortgage, and don’t have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses, you need to take care of those things first!

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