Greater Pensacola Parents "Afterschool Activities Issue" (August 23)

A “Special” School Year

Out the Door On Time

2023 After School

Protecting Teen Drivers

Pro

Aiden Quinn (10), son of Shane and Jessica Quinn. Grandson to Valarie and Brian Webster, Kevin and Sonny Quinn, and Jay Milus.

Aiden loves all things astronautics and space. He also loves the military and planes (his father is an Army reserve drill sergeant) and enjoys drawing rocket and plane ideas. When Aiden is not dreaming of space travel, he loves the outdoors, biking, airsoft, and the beach.

FromThePublisher

Anyone traveling this summer witnessed how busy the roads and the airlines were over the two months. While it may be frustrating if you are in the middle of it, it is wonderful that so many families were out taking vacations, visiting family and friends, and making memories together! One of my dearest friends was on the road back-to-back all summer. She lived out of her suitcase between choir tours, college visits, and family vacations. Can you imagine how organized you would need to be to pull that off? She shared one of her packing tips that I thought was great. She rolls each daily outfit up altogether. So shirt, shorts, socks, undies, and accessories all get rolled together into one unit. That way, she just grabs that roll and heads to the bathroom without digging around in her suitcase to find the individual pieces and knows she has enough clothes, socks, and undergarments for her trip. Genius! Leave it to my teacher friend to have such a streamlined routine.

While we are getting ready to trade in packing our suitcases for packing backpacks, some of the same principles apply. A well-organized machine is key, especially on school days with kids. Nothing can throw off a day like the mad search for a missing shoe or the field trip form that needed to be signed. As we come upon a new school year, if you don’t have a well-thought-out plan for your mornings, I encourage you to check out Cherie Gough’s tips in this month’s feature Out the Door on Time: 9 Tips for a Smooth Morning Routine. Gough gives us some helpful ideas to smooth out and avoid a rough start to your day.

If you have a child with an IEP, there are some additional items you will want to get organized as you prepare your child for a new school year. Fortunately, IEP expert Amy Scott Lorton has provided a checklist in her feature, 5 Steps to a Successful School Year for Your Special Needs Child.

As if the morning school rush is not stressful enough, adding a driving teenager to the mix can throw the angst into high gear, especially as they start driving in school traffic for the first time. The morning commute is already filled with people running late, going too fast, and weaving in and out of traffic, not to mention the sudden stops of people on congested roadways. New drivers must be prepared for these conditions. As Christa Hines reinforces in her feature, Protecting Teen Drivers, it is always a good idea to have new drivers practice in various driving conditions. If you have a new driver or will have one soon, check out her other tips too!

Now that we have organized and prepared for the start of our school day, what about after school? Once the dismissal bell rings, it’s time for after-school activities. Maybe your child is an athlete and loves to play sports. Or perhaps you have a music prodigy on your hands. No matter what activities your child is interested in, we have many opportunities available in our area! Just flip over to the 2023 After School Activities Guide, and you will see a plethora of options for sports, music, art, theater, dance, and more. We hope this listing helps you find extracurricular activities your child will love.

It won’t be long before everyone is waving at each other in carline and attending field trips together, so we wish everyone a wonderful school year!

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.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW

Cherie Gough

Christa Melnyk Hines

Amy Scott Lorton

Dave Ramsey Works of Wonder Therapy, LLC

Cover Photography Naomi McIntosh Photography Facebook.com/NaomiMcIntoshPhotography @naomimcintoshphotography

President Jason Watson

Advertising Sales

Lynn Knighton ads@greaterpensacolaparents.com

(850) 426-6222

Ad Design

lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Tim Welch 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.

Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2023 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.

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Raising Emotionally Resilient Children

There are two common misconceptions that hinder parents from raising emotionally resilient children. The first is that “healthy children” have appropriate emotional reactions. The second is that “good parents” are immediately able to help their children overcome negative emotions.

First, do not believe the lie that only “healthy children” have appropriate emotional reactions. You may become fixated on solving a problem that does not exist. If your child is under the age of 8 and your ONLY concern is that he/ she displays overly negative emotions, please know that this is completely age appropriate. Children tend to become upset when they are denied access to what they want, are made to do what they do not want to do, are not given enough attention, or are physically overwhelmed (tired, hungry, etc). If they are over the age of 8, you should

hard that season of life was on you and model the reactions you want to see.

Second, the idea that “good parents” can immediately manage their child’s negative emotions is false. If children are not forced to struggle through their own negative emotions, they are bypassing a vital part of the developmental process. Sometimes what appears to be “good parenting” is detrimental for character building. We help children build character and emotional resilience by simply sitting with them in difficult moments.

What does it mean to “sit” with your struggling child?

1. It is telling your toddler that he cannot have another cookie and holding him close when he starts to cry. It is not redirecting his attention to distract him from the frustration.

2. It is actively listening to your preteen tell a story about how mean her friends can be. It is not helping her see another per

spective or telling her how to respond more appropriately.

3. It is letting your child be afraid. It is not dismissing the fear or allowing it to dictate his behavior.

4. It is letting your daughter push the Legos away when her Lego tower falls apart. It is not giving her instructions on how to take deep breaths instead.

Excellent parents just sit in the struggle with their children. They save teaching for when learning is optimal. They do not attempt to solve, control, or avoid their child’s nega tive emotions. Despite the circumstances, they remain focused on their goal of raising emotionally regulated adults who can respond appropriately when things do not go their way.

Excellent parents focus on actions more than feelings and attitudes. When they do this, they help their children learn that their feelings cannot dictate their behavior. They do not attempt to make their children “feel good” about doing hard things. Instead, they do it with them. If their child does not want to go to the bathroom, they take her anyway. If their child is afraid of jumping in the pool, they jump in with him. It is easy to parent with words, but excellent parents speak with their actions.

Excellent parents help their children un derstand that it is normal to experience all 87 emotions. They do not teach their children to chase “good” emotions and avoid the “bad”. They help children understand that negative emotions are not problematic, but a normal

Pensacola Opera Rummage Sale

Join us on August 5, starting at 7:00 am for our Rummage Sale at the Pensacola Opera Center. We will have a sale of props, set pieces, vintage items, donated items and more. This is also a great time to check out the Opera Center, meet our staff, and learn about our upcoming season. All proceeds support the mission of Pensacola Opera. Please visit https://pensacolaopera.com/ for information.

Pensacola Touch-a-Truck & Career Expo

Join us on August 26, 2023, from 11:00 am –4:00 pm at Community Maritime Park for the Pensacola Touch-a-Truck & Career Expo. We will have the largest gathering of trucks, tractors, heavy machinery, military, police, fire, and EMS apparatuses Pensacola has EVER seen. Touch-a-Truck exists to allow kids, teens, and adults an opportunity to become familiar with service industry careers by offering an educational opportunity to explore and interact with the people who build, protect, and serve the Gulf Coast. There will be Food Trucks, Turtle Roll Ice Cream & Shaved Ice, and Trade Tent Vendors, and we have partnered with Pensacola State College to provide funds toward trade scholarships for those who need them in our local community! Regardless of whether you are looking for a new career, want to learn about various careers, are a kid, or are just a kid at heart - there’s something for the whole family.

Junior League Spark Board

Spark Board is accepting applications. If you are interested or know a high school junior or senior young lady who wants to get more involved in the community, apply today. The Spark Board provides a foundation of volunteerism and offers the opportunity for Spark Board members to gain an understanding of the impact JULEP has on the Pensacola community, with the opportunity to apply for a $1,000 JULEP Scholarship. As a member of the Spark Board, young women will learn what it takes to become a leader in our community and work directly with Junior League of Pensacola members and today’s community leaders. Through this training, Spark Board members will learn leadership skills, professionalism, self-esteem, as well as other valuable skills. Spark Board members will have opportunities to volunteer at key JULEP events and projects throughout the community and develop a philanthropic project for JULEP to execute. In addition, the participants will have the benefit of interacting with other young women their age from across the community. Applications due August 31. Visit https://pensacola.jl.org/community/spark/.

Pensacola Out of the Darkness Walk

Join us for our annual

of the darkness and create a culture that’s smart about mental health. For more information and to register: www.afsp.org/Pensacola.

Pensacola Children’s Chorus

2023/2024 Season Auditions

Pensacola Children’s Chorus will hold 2023/2024 season auditions on Saturday, August 12th and Satur day, August 26th, 2023 at the PCC Rehearsal Building, 46 E Chase St., Pensacola. Auditions are being held by appointment. Sign-up at www. pensacolasings.org/join.

Local Pensacola Mom Creates a World Filled with Breadcrumbz

Local Pensacola mom Shannon Addison has a desire to foster kindness in her children and help young girls navigate what can be the uncertain waters of friendships. This vision prompted her to create My Crumby World, comprised of a group of characters known as The Breadcrumbz. The Breadcrumbz leave a trail through stories and activities for children to follow in their cookbook that will help them learn about friendship, connection, and ultimately acceptance. This interactive baking book is designed to help facilitate better communication between girls and their parents about the struggles girls have with their friends at school.

Visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/crumbz/my-crumbyguide-to-baking-and-friendship-making. Make sure you check them out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest @MyCrumbyWorld. Shannon Addison is also on the Escambia Public School’s Foundation Board and a mentor for Take Stock in Children.

Gallery Night –Wonder Years

Join us on August 18, 2023, from 5:00 pm-9:00 pm for Gallery Night; the theme is Wonder Years. Gallery Night is an all-ages, community, arts, and cultural event on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 pm. Our unique monthly themes set the tone for each event’s art, performers, musical performance stages, and activities that are sure to please.

Gallery Night Pensacola will once again close Palafox Street (from Garden Street to Main Street) in Downtown Pensacola and provide open streets for patrons to explore and enjoy music, art, food and more.

Beyond Van Gogh

Join us for Beyond Van Gogh from August 5 through September 9, 2023, at the Pensacola Interstate Fair, Building 6. This immersive experience features more than 300 of Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic artworks and takes the art lover into a three-dimensional world that exhilarates the senses. In a rich and unique multimedia experience using cutting-edge multi-dimensional projections developed by some of the world’s greatest designers, Beyond Van Gogh takes on the challenge of breathing new life into Van Gogh’s vast body of work. Using the artist’s own dreams, thoughts and words to drive the experience as a narrative, guests move along projection-swathed walls wrapped in light and color that swirls and dances as it refocuses on the flowers, cafes and landscapes of his famous artworks. Please visit https://vangoghpensacola.com/ for more information.

Back to School Sales Tax Holiday

Florida consumers can purchase qualifying back-to-school supplies exempt from tax during the 2023-2024 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday. Passed by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the sales tax holiday begins Monday, July 24 and extends through Sunday, August 6. A second exemption period will begin Monday, January 1, 2024 and extend through Sunday, January 14, 2024. For a list of qualifying items, visit https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool/Pages/default.aspx.

International Coastal Cleanup

Mark your calendars for our 2023 International Coastal Cleanup on September 16, 2023, from 9 am – 11 am on Casino Beach. We’ve got BeBot to help us pick up as much litter as we can! Once we sort and categorize the beach litter we found, we’ll send it off to the Ocean Conservancy for their global report on marine litter around the world. This is a great way for ALL AGES to get involved with citizen science in the community. Please visit https://www.ourcornerescambia.org/ for more information.

Rock4Vets 5K Run & Walk

Pensacola Rock4Vets is having a 5k Run & Walk on September 16, 2023, from 7:30 am – 1:00 pm at Pensacola Maritime Park. This is a fun family event with food trucks and live music. Please visit https://choosepeoples. com/rock4vets to register, donate or get more information.

Blues Angel Music Blues on the Bay Free Concert Series

Our free concert series is one of the most popular events for locals and visitors to spend the final hours of their weekend enjoying great music with family and friends in a great atmosphere. Concerts are held on select Sunday evenings at the Community Maritime Park Hunter Amphitheater when the Blue Wahoos are away. Pack your coolers, bring your lawn chairs, and join us at the Hunter Amphi theater for the Blues Angel Music Blues on the Bay Con cert Series. Enjoy a cool breeze off the bay while dancing and listening to some of the region’s best musical talent. Concerts begin at 6 p.m. and are free and open to the public. The August shows are August 13 – Still Standing (Elton John Tribute) and Aug 27 – Bay Bridge Band. For

Autauga County Schools

Making Music at Montessori School of Pensacola

“There should be music in the child’s environment, just as there does exist in the child’s environment spoken speech. In the social environment the child should be considered, and music should be provided.”

–Maria Montessori

Dr. Maria Montessori, Italian’s first female physician, and creator of the Montessori method of education said the above quote. Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) supports the inclusion of and exposure to music. During this week, Felipe Munoz (MSP parent and owner of Empathic Practice) brought in many different instruments, allowing campers to not only hear the different sounds of the instruments, but to

Pensacola Catholic High Honors Former Student-Athlete with Annual Award

Take Stock in Children of Escambia County Awards $287,000 in Scholarships!

Take Stock in Children and the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation awarded $287,000 in scholarships at the May 19 “Graduation & Unsung Hero Celebration” at the Wright Place. The event honored 21 graduating seniors who received four-year tuition scholarships and a laptop computer. Also recognized were all of the volunteer mentors of our students as well as scholarship donors. Take Stock in Children was established in 1995 as a non-profit organization in Florida operating locally under the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation. The program provides a unique opportunity for deserving low-income students to escape the cycle of poverty through education. Students are selected through a need-based application process in middle school, and comprehensive services continue through high school and include the students’ transition into college.

The 2023 Take Stock in Children graduates are: Escambia Virtual: Trinity Weaver; Northview High: Johnnie Howell, Jr.; Pine Forest High: Bobbie-Sue Jarrell, Bricen Kelly, Jayla Rudolph, Aiden Wilson; Tate High: Calvin Brewer, Tyler Hurley, Avery Leventhal, Loghan Zellers; Booker T. Washington High: Kelsey Bolling, Briana Coates, Kiana Hollis, Teddy Robinson III, Shiriell Watson; West Florida High: Alonna Brown, Patrick Delcour, Efrain Escarfullet III, Kiara Mullins, Kendall Poston, Ty’QuJuan Stallworth-Horne.

Every year during the Graduation ceremony for Pensacola Catholic High School, the school recognizes a student athlete in memory of an exemplary previous Crusader, Chris Gallman, a member of the Class of 1999. Chris was a very talented member of both the Basketball and Track Teams and in May of 1998, just days after he won the District high jump gold medal at the end of his Junior year, and shortly before he was to leave for the State Track Meet, he died very suddenly and tragically of an undiagnosed heart condition. His death left the Catholic High community stunned and heartbroken. Chris was a very special person – a very talented athlete, a friend to all, rarely seen without a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone - truly the epitome of kindness and good sportsmanship. Shortly after his tragic and untimely death, there was a groundswell of desire from all parts of the CHS family – students, teachers, administrators, parents...all, recognizing the unique goodness of Chris Gallman, asked that we establish an award in his honor to memorialize the goodness he contributed and stood for in his life at Catholic High, his sportsmanship, selflessness, and compassion. These qualities became the focus and criteria for the bestowal of this award that is given each year at the Commencement Exercises. With the input of athletes in each of the 21 CHS Varsity athletic teams, the entire CHS faculty, and the CHS coaching staff, the selection of the recipient for the Chris Gallman Sportsmanship Award is conducted each year. It has not happened often, but this year two athletes tied for this special honor. This year’s recipients of the Chris Gallman Award were Zack DeJesus and Caroline Stuck. Zack played football and baseball at CHS for all four years. His Football Coach says that “this young man always put the team before his personal ambitions.” His Baseball Coach describes him by saying, “He is the consummate team player. He put his team first always, over personal accomplishments.”

Caroline played Volleyball, Soccer, and Tennis at CHS. Her Volleyball Coach says “She is a great team player who played multiple positions without complaining, for the betterment of the team.” Both her Soccer Coach and her Tennis Coach said she was a selfless player whose demeanor and determination made others on her team better players and people by following her example. Congratulations, Zack and Caroline! Athletic Director, Coach Richard LaBounty, presented the Chris Gallman Sportsmanship Award to Zack DeJesus and Caroline Struck.

East Hill Christian Welcomes New Head of School

As the new school year is upon us, East Hill is excited to welcome Dr. Hadley as our new Head of School. She comes to us from Mount Dora Christian Academy where she has had an exceptional twentyyear career. She is an educator at heart, having served eleven years as an elementary teacher, five years as principal and most recently, four years as their Head of School. During her time at Mount Dora, Dr. Hadley has led the academic, spiritual and enrollment growth of the school. She has introduced instructional programs that increased academic performance across all grade levels and she is passionate about helping teachers to highlight the Biblical truths and relevance found within the core content. As a result of her leadership, she was awarded the 2018 National Educator of the Year award by the National Christian School Association and her school was designated a National Blue Ribbon School. We are excited for her to join the East Hill family and are looking forward to the great year ahead!

Voices United in Education Podcast

This podcast is a platform for teachers, parents, staff, students, graduates, community mentors and residents. Step up and share your positive stories and different viewpoints so we can teach and learn from one another. The education and success of each student In Escambia County Public Schools depends on all of us. Together, we can be united in education. We are committed to changing K-12 education. Working with parents and community members, we encourage independent and critical thinking by introducing our students to infinite paths, intricacies of problem solving, and the beauty of different viewpoints and diversity of thought. Please visit https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/ for more information.

Autauga County Schools

Pro Deo et Patria – For God and Country –Pensacola Catholic High Commencement

Pensacola Catholic High School held their Commencement Exercises on May 20 during which they bestowed a very special award on a member of the Pensacola Catholic High School graduating class. For the past 40 years, this award, named the Pro Deo et Patria Award, recognizes a graduate who dynamically and consistently exemplifies the spirit and ideals of Catholic High School. The ideals are summarized very succinctly in the school motto, “Pro Deo et Patria”, translated from Latin to mean ”For God and Country.” Each year, the faculty and senior class members, by means of a vote of each individual, select a member of the graduating class to receive this honor.

Among the many awards given to graduates each year, this is perhaps the most meaningful and cherished because it recognizes someone who has chosen to live by the ideals and Core Values of Catholic High School -- Selfless Love, Commitment to Excellence, Personal Integrity, and Commitment to Service –to do all For God and Country. Congratulations to the 2023 recipient of the Pro Deo et Patria Award – Juliet Messerly! Juliet is presented the Pro Deo et Patria Award by Principal, Sister Kierstin Martin.

Celebrating Pleasant Grove’s New Campus

School staff, district personnel, local leaders, business partners, and community members gathered for the ribbon cutting at the brand-new Pleasant Grove Elementary Campus. After a brief ceremony and ribbon cutting, guests enjoyed a reception in the cafeteria and tours of the beautiful new facility.

Gallery Night Wonder Years –Youth Entrepreneurs

On Friday, August 18th, Gallery Night’s “Wonder Years” event will featuring a Youth Entrepreneur Zone. We will have approximately 20 youth entrepreneurs to share in Gallery Night’s entrepreneurial successes! Join us for this amazing night.

Leadership Pensacola Helps Low-income Students at CA Weis Elementary School

There’s a new addition at CA Weis Elementary School in Pensacola to help students.

The “Leadership Pensacola Class of 2023” partnered with “Closets by Design of the Emerald Coast” to create a “care closet” at the school. The care closet provides clothes, food, and personal care items for low-income students.

Send

Breakfast Honors Molino Park Elementary Volunteers, Partners and Mentors

Molino Park Elementary School held a “Breakfast of Champions” to celebrate volunteers, community partners and mentors. Collectively, they have logged over 3,400 hours this school year.

Lending a Hand at Montessori School of Pensacola

A humanitarian is defined as someone who has concern for or helps to improve the welfare and happiness of people. Montessori School of Pensacola’s (MSP’s) recent summer camp focused on humanitarian acts and how to lend a hand. Campers were able to learn about and then execute small acts of kindness that made big differences. They painted rocks and hid them in a neighborhood walk around 12th Avenue where the MSP Early Childhood is located. Campers also worked together to wash the car of one of their camp instructors. They blindfolded the teacher and surprised her with a clean and fresh car. Additionally, Manna Food Pantry came to talk to the campers about hunger in Pensacola. In conjunction with the week’s focus on how to give back to the community, camp conducted a food drive for Manna.

Summer Camp Scientists at Montessori School of Pensacola

Montessori School of Pensacola summer camp themes change week to week. One of this summer’s themes was Science. During this week, students conducted science experiments and read books about famous scientists. Along with making lemon volcanoes, campers also created balloon hovercrafts with balloons and CDs.

Please email news and photos to schoolnews@

Escambia HS Robotics Team 1st at “NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge”

The Escambia High School Robotics

Team brought home the top national honor from a weekend competition. 13 seniors from the school’s engineering academy competed at “NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge.” It was held at the “U.S. Rocket and Space Center” in Huntsville, Alabama. Their challenge was to design and build a vehicle to conquer a course of obstacles, and tasks on an expedition over lunar and martain terrain. They beat out 48 competitors from eight

Oh, the Fun Kids Have at Creative Learning Academy’s Summer Camp!

Summer days in Pensacola have taken on a new level of excitement and adventure thanks to Camp CLA at Creative Learning Academy. With its innovative approach and focus on fostering friendships, Camp CLA has developed a dynamic and engaging experience for all campers. According to Jennifer Russell, Camp CLA’s dedicated director, the kids are not only having a blast but are also benefiting from a carefully curated blend of structured activities and spontaneous play. Camp CLA breaks free from the traditional summer camp structure, providing a relaxed atmosphere that encourages kids to explore their interests. From art and enrichments to sports and world exploration, Jennifer states, “We wanted to create an environment where children can be themselves, enjoy their summer days, and make lifelong memories. Camp

CLA provides an atmosphere where all children can thrive, be active, and have a great time while feeling safe and secure.”

In addition to sports such as basketball, pickleball, and volleyball, Camp CLA offers a wide range of activities that engage young minds. Children delve into the mysteries of outer space, learn about fascinating places around the world, and uncover their artistic talents in themed classes. The camp also provides opportunities for hands-on learning in STEAM projects, allowing campers to unleash their inner “scientist” and develop critical thinking skills. With a dedicated staff trained in child care and an environment designed for engagement, many campers’ parents have noticed that their children are not only having fun but also staying safe. As the days unfold, these young campers are making friends, exploring their passions, and creating lasting memories. Throughout summer season 2023, Camp CLA is definitely providing the ideal summer experience, offering a nurturing environment where kids can be happy, active, engaged; all the while having so much fun!

Escambia County Schools to Give Parents Choice on Book Restrictions

Escambia County Public Schools are giving parents more power when it comes to what books their child can check out. Starting May 1, the district is moving to a more streamlined, online form. They can either log onto the student info system online or scan a QR code that’ll be on posters outside many schools. The new online K-12 form is called “Library Access.”

Autauga County Schools

Pensacola Catholic High Conducts New Crusader Workshops

During the months of June and July, Pensacola Catholic High School offered incoming registered Freshman the opportunity to participate in a workshop to help new Crusaders become more comfortable with CHS prior to the school year beginning. The optional workshop is a great way for students to meet other classmates and learn about the school schedule, CHS expectations, and differences between middle and high school. The workshops were conducted by Freshman/Sophomore Advisor, Mrs. Peyton Finelli. She was assisted by members of the CHS Student Council and Student Ambassador groups. The day’s events included a tour of the campus, interactive discussions on strategies to help students be successful with their transition into high school, and games that introduced them to the history of Catholic High and the faculty. Mrs. Finelli said about the day, “We want to help students feel more comfortable and confident so their first few weeks of school can feel less anxious. We want them to become leaders among their peers so that they can help other new Crusaders as well.” Pictured – Mrs. Lipscomb, School Receptionist, explains student protocols for checking in and out when the groups stopped in the School Office during their campus tours.

If your child with special needs has an IEP (Individualized Education Program) then you are already familiar with how much energy goes into caring for your child medically and educationally. Summer is an ideal time to get organized, tune up your advocacy skills, and prepare for the upcoming school year! Here are five steps to help ensure a successful school year for your student:

Step #1 Review

Review the IEP: Do you have questions or concerns related to the appropriateness of your child’s current IEP? Are goals listed still relevant? Are modifications and accommodations listed still needed? Does your child require additional services or accommodations? Has your child made progress? Demonstrated regression? Has anything changed with your child’s medical diagnoses, treatment plan, or therapies?

Review your parental and student’s rights: http://www2.ed.gov/parents/needs/ sp eced/iepguide/index.html.

Step #2 Organize

Compile and organize records: Gather your child’s IEP progress reports, classroom work samples, assessments, and correspondence with teachers and staff. Request records from the school if necessary. Compile Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE) to include documents from other professionals, such as: evaluation reports, diagnostic findings, and plan-of-care notes from doctors, therapists, tutors, and other private providers. Consider providing the independent evaluator’s educational recommendations to the school.

Create a system: Organize all documents in a three-ring binder with tabs and keep a separate binder for each academic year.

Step #3 Plan

Check the calendar: Do you have an upcoming meeting or need to request a meeting?

Don’t go it alone: plan to bring someone with you to the meeting such as a family member, friend, therapist, or a Special Education Advocate.

Make requests: Do you need to request an evaluation, or a reevaluation be conducted?

Meet and greet: Attend the school orientation and open house so you and your student can meet their teacher.

Begin at the end: Consider how you would like your child to progress this year. Plan with these goals in mind.

Step #4 Communicate

Be specific: Ask W” questions (who, what, when, where, and why) of school staff to get detailed answers.

Be positive: Send your child’s teacher an introductory email with your

contact information; after meetings write a thank you note or email.

Be proactive: Make sure ALL your child’s teachers have a copy of the IEP. To avoid the possibility that they did not receive a copy, ask, or go ahead and provide them with one. It is important that all staff working with your child are aware of what supports they require.

Step #5 Monitor

Monitor your child’s progress: Study recent progress reports, evaluations, and assessment results and seek clarification if you have questions. Revisit your notes from recent meetings and follow up on any action items. Request an IEP progress meeting when needed.

Take an active role: IDEA describes the parent’s role as, “The parents of a child with a disability are expected to be equal participants along with school personnel, in developing, reviewing, and revising the IEP for their child. This is an active role...” YOU are a key member of your child’s team. Remember, YOU know your child best; you are an expert, too!

About the Author

Special Education Consultant & Advocate, Amy Scott Lorton, of My IEP Advocate, has been helping parents navigate the complicated special education process since 2002. Amy holds a Certificate in Special Education Advocacy from William and Mary Law School and earned multiple teaching certificates. Amy has over two decades of experience teaching students with disabilities as well as personal experience raising a child with a disability. Amy is an active member of Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and National Association of Professional Special Education Advocates (NASEA). Amy also partners with local disability support agencies and non-profit organizations to offer quality advocacy and informational training and workshop opportunities to parents and professionals.

Request a consultation: https://www.myiepadvocate.com/consultation-form

Contact Us: amy@myiepadvocate.com or visit: https://www.myiepadvocate.com/

Should I Cash in 401(k) to Pay Off Mortgage?

Q Should I cash in my 401(k) to pay off my car? I have just enough in the account to pay off the car and free up money in my budget.

A. If I were in your shoes, and I could pay off the car in 18 months or less, I’d live on rice and beans—plus a very strict monthly budget—and just push through until that car payment was out of my life. If that wasn’t realistic, then I’d take out ads online and in the local paper, and sell the car as fast as possible.

Cashing out your retirement plan to make this happen isn’t a good idea. I love that you want to get rid of your car payment, but if you use your 401(k) they’ll charge you a 10% penalty, plus your tax rate. That means you’ll lose anywhere from 30 to 50 percent of it to the government.

I don’t know about you, but I think those guys get way too much of our money already!

No Second Mortgage!

Q. My husband was recently told layoffs are about to happen at his company, and that it might be a good idea for him to start looking for another job. He has found a couple of good possi bilities, but the jobs are lo cated 100 miles away. In preparation for a possible move, we spoke with a real estate agent who told us we’d have to remodel our kitchen to sell the house. We’ve got about $4,000 in savings, but the agent said remodeling would take between $2,500 and $3,000. Should we get a second mortgage to pay for the work?

A. For starters, I’d suggest cutting expenses any way you can, living on a strict budget and saving as much cash as possible. But taking out a second mortgage? No! You don’t want that hanging over your heads. You might want to get another opinion on the kitchen remodel, too. Sure, a new kitchen would be nice, but would it be a make-orbreak kind of thing if you decide to sell your home? Probably not, unless it’s in really terrible shape right now. Regardless, there’s no way I’d go into debt to make this happen. There’s no reason to fix up a house that’s not for sale, especially when you’ve got just $4,000 to your names.

My advice is to wait and see how the whole job situation plays out before making any big decisions. Then if you end up selling the house and moving, you might take $500 or so from savings to freshen up the kitchen a little bit.

Child meal sites across the Gulf Coast are offering healthy, FREE meals for children, ages 18 and younger.

I am not a morning person. Life at home with my toddlers used to be filled with mornings cuddling in PJs. Arriving at preschool on time was a challenge; I was often late. When my son started kindergarten, I was determined to get my act together and break the cycle. I gleaned ideas from the web, talked to other moms and put a system in place. I use these tips to get up and out the door in 45 minutes each morning.

Use Sunday Wisely

Think ahead and prepare for the week on Sunday; it helps save time in the long run.

1. Bag snacks, fruits and veggies for the week to save time on busy sports practice and running-around days. Doing this in advance also gives you a head’s up if stocking up on lunchbox staples is necessary, thereby avoiding last-minute shopping trips.

2. Use an organizing system to put together school outfits for the week. I bought a hanging system for my son’s closet with a compartment for each day. Every Sunday, we check the weather for the upcoming week and put outfits in each compartment. Sometimes my son wants to choose his clothes; sometimes he lets me choose. There is never an argument, question, or decision to make about what to wear in the morning.

3. Put an organizing system by the door for shoes and backpacks. Professional organizers often recommend an area with hooks for backpacks and a rack below for shoes. Having homework and permission slips ready in the backpack the night before is crucial.

The Night Before

4. Make lunches the night before. This includes filling water bottles.

5. Set the table for breakfast after doing the dinner dishes. You’re already in the kitchen; getting it all done at once makes sense.

In the Morning

6. Keep breakfast simple. Cereal with toast, yogurt or fruit keeps us on the go. Try to sit down and have breakfast as soon as the kids get up. This avoids the grab-and-go breakfast that research shows can lead to obesity. It also helps avoid last-minute spills on school clothes that could cause a meltdown for kids or parents.

Try this savvy breakfast trick: Always bake a double batch of muffins and freeze the extras. That way, the kids can just take one out and warm it in the microwave.

If you have a picky eater who wants a hot breakfast, try toaster waffles, make-ahead egg muffins or bagels.

7. Have your child use an alarm clock. We bought a Yoda alarm clock and gave it to our son as a present as he entered kindergarten. He was excited by the unexpected gift and in turn, was excited to use it. I was amazed when he skipped into the dining room each morning at 6:15 a.m., ready to start his day.

8. Most parents agree with this rule: No electronics before school. They are way too distracting.

9. With older children, get creative! A fun way to get tweens out of bed and moving is to turn on music in their rooms. Make it nice and loud and then sing and dance (if necessary), substituting words with phrases about waking up and getting moving. Groans may soon turn into laughter and they start preparing for the school day.

There is no magic and no two families are alike. Figure out what works for your family, then put a system in place. Planning ahead will help start the day in a more positive, less frazzled way.

Cherie Gough is a contributing writer.

Art

After School Art Lab

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First City Art Center, 1060 North Guillemard Street Pensacola, 32501

YAP ART LAB is a hands-on art-making class for age home-school, public, and private school students. In this fun and innovative class students will explore a variety of mediums such as drawing, painting, collage, pottery, and 3-d design. Classes are offered for ages 3 through 8th grade. Class days and times are dependent on age. Visit our website for specific days and times for your child’s age. Flexible drop-off and pick-up.

850-429-1222 www.firstcityart.org

LaBelle Performing Arts

ad on page 20

8253 Chellie Road Pensacola, 32526

Registration for returning students is July 28, 5:00-8:00 pm at LaBelle. Registration for new and returning Students: July 29, 10 am-1 pm

850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com

Pensacola Museum of Art

ad on page 41

407 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, 32502

Make the art museum part of your child’s education! Join us for Afterschool Art or Next Generation Homeschool programs. In these hands-on studio art classes, students develop skills by engaging in the creative process. Curriculum adheres to National Visual Arts Standards. Fall education programs begin the week of August 21st, with registration opening on June 24th: https://pensacolamuseum.org/learn-

Fricker Resource Center After School Program

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Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street

Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for after school program information.

850-436-5195 adesport@cityofpensacola.com

www.playpensacola.com

Gull Point Resource Center After School Program

ad on Inside Back Cover

7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for after school program information.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com

www.playpensacola.com

School District of Escambia County School-Age Child Care

ad on page 5

Multiple locations

The School District of Escambia County offers several district-operated and contracted programs for school-age child care. Registration begins August 2, 2023.

Woodland Heights Resource Center After School Program

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111 Berkley Drive Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for after school program information.

850-435-1750 tthomas@cityofpensacola.com

www.playpensacola.com

Camp Fire Gulf Wind, Inc.

Various locations, Pensacola

engage/semester-programs/. PMA is now offering a limited number of need-based scholarships for the Afterschool Art program - fall applications are available online and are due by August 15th. 850-432-6247 crhea@uwf.edu www.pensacolamuseum.org

Ellen’s Art

1265 Oriole Beach Road Gulf Breeze, 32563

Open studio classes - you will have complete instruction and all materials needed to create a unique mixed media art piece.

850-934-8538 www.ellens-art.com

Maker’s Loft

2400 W Michigan Ave, Ste 19 Pensacola, 32526 We’re a workshop style craft studio. Sign up, come in, have fun. All supplies are included.

850-466-3227 https://makersloftpensacola.com/

Time To Shine Center for Performing Arts

4375 Woodbine Road Pensacola, 32571

Professional instruction in dance, music, acting and art.

850-994-5678 www.timetoshineflorida.com

Before and After School Care

Cobb Resource Center After School Program

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601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for after school program information.

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

Led by skilled, caring adults using a proven curriculum. Afterschool programs are uniquely focused to help youth thrive.

850-476-1760 info@cfgulfwind.org

www.campfirekidsfl.com

Montessori School of Pensacola

1010 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, 32501 4100 Montessori Dr. Pensacola, 32504 Yoga, Music, and more.

850-433-4155; 850-469-8138

admissions@montessoripensacola.com

www.montessoripensacola.com/learning-at-msp/ after-school-programs

YMCA - Northeast Branch

2130 Summit Boulevard Pensacola, 32503

We offer school-age kids and middle school youth a safe, fun place to spend time before and after school while parents manage their work responsibilities. We also have sports. We encourage teamwork and sportsmanship while improving coordination. For registration, visit our website.

850-478-1222 www.ymcanwfl.org

Bowling

Cordova Lanes

ad on page 16

2111 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, 32504

Learn a sport that lasts a lifetime! Youth Leagues for ages 5 -18 years. Ask about other programs for kids and families.

850-477-2300 info@cordovalanes.com

www.cordovalanes.com

DeLuna Lanes

590 East Nine Mile Road Pensacola, 32514

Recreational, competitive leagues, tournament bowling, video arcade, and pool tables at Peter B’s Sports Grill. We offer something for everyone! 850-478-9522 info@delunalanes.com www.delunalanes.com

Dance

Bernice’s Starrstep

Dance Studio

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2895 West Scott Street Pensacola, 32505

Starrstep Dance Studio is in its 94th year of teaching dance to ages 3 and up. Classes offered in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical,and Pointe. 850-438-2010 info@starrstepdancestudio.com www.starrstepdancestudio.com

Dance Academy of Santa Rosa

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6564 Caroline Street Milton, 32570

Professional dance and performing art instruction in jazz, ballet, tap, hip hop, lyrical, pre-k, and more. Ages 2 and up, beginner - advanced. 850-665-4003 danceacademyofsr@gmail.com www.danceacademyofsantarosa.com

Emerald Coast Dance

Conservatory

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419 East Gadsden Street Pensacola, 32501

Dance instruction in various styles for ages 3 & up by professionally trained and qualified staff. Classes offered for recreational through preprofessional levels. Visit our website. 850-512-9191 ms.ursula@emeraldcoastdance.com www.emeraldcoastdance.com

Gull Point Dance Program

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7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, 32504

Please contact our center directly for dance program information.

850-494-7360 Dance Classes: hmatteson@gmail.com

Dance Company: gullpointperformingdancers@gmail.com www.playpensacola.com

LaBelle Performing Arts

ad on page 20

8253 Chellie Road Pensacola, 32526

Registration for returning students is July 28, 5:00-8:00 pm at LaBelle. Registration for new and returning Students: July 29, 10 am-1 pm

850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com

Pensacola Youth Ballet

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9276 North Davis Hwy Pensacola, 32514

Pensacola Youth Ballet is a pre-professional program for ages five and up. Online registration is now open, and we hold open house August 18,19,25,26 from 9:00-1:00. We offer programs for varying interests and levels, with a ballet company and three performances each year. Please visit our website for more information to see what really sets us apart.

850-786-9506 www.pensacolayouthballet.com

Performing Arts

Cultural Exchange

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Performing Arts Cultural Exchange’s mission is to increase professional training for classical ballet. The program will encourage training that prevents

injury to students by utilizing the Vaganova Teaching Method. Classes to begin the first week of August. Visit our website for adult and children’s workshops, classes and camps.

925 864 8760 info@paceballet.org www.paceballet.org

A Time to Dance

7020 Navarre Parkway Navarre, 32566

Providing dance training to students ages 2 years and up from beginning to pre-professional. We help develop confidence and self esteem in a caring supportive environment.

850-450-6919 help@atimetodance.org www.atimetodancenavarre.com

Ballet Pensacola

400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, 32502

Registration for Ballet Pensacola is now open! Check out our website and come experience Pensacola’s best training academy!

850-432-9546 www.balletpensacola.org/academy/ classes

Broadway Lights

5668 Gulf Breeze Parkway (Unit B11) Gulf Breeze, 32563

We instill self-expression, discipline, and passion for the arts. Dance for fun or train to be a professional!

850-932-5555 broadwaylightsdancecenter@gmail.com www.broadwaylightsdancecenter.com

Five Flags Dance Academy

8084 N Davis Hwy (Ste F-1) Pensacola, 32514

After School at Five Flags Dance Academy, includes homework help, activities, Dance & Fitness, performances, snacks, and so much more. Schedule your tour today.

850-484-0648 abarnettdance@gmail.com www.fiveflagsdanceacademy.com

Five Star Dance

5636 Woodbine Road Pace, 32571

Offering a comprehensive program of Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Contemporary, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Pre-K, Creative Movement, Barre and Stretch as well as Private Lessons.

850-748-2383 info@fivestardancecentre.com http://www.fivestardancecentre.com/

In His Steps Dance Studio

6231 North “W” Street Pensacola, 32505 Dance lessons for ages 2.5 - adult. Classes available in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Modern, Contemporary and more. We also offer voice and piano.

850-474-4922 missamysdance@hotmail.com

www.inhisstepsinc.com

Mixon Magic Performing Arts

1010 N. 12th Ave Suite #238 Pensacola, 32501

Now registering for fall! Offering classes in musical theatre, ballet, tap, broadway dance, and much more! Ages 3 - Adult.

850-221-7438 hello@mixonmagic.com

www.mixonmagic.com

The P.A.C.E. Studio 4634 Lori Lane Pace, 32571 Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Acrobatics, Hip-Hop, Pointé, Musical Theater, Acting, & more! Pre-school through advanced levels.

850-994-1875 pacestudio@live.com

www.pacedance.org

Time To Shine Center for Performing Arts

4375 Woodbine Road Pensacola, 32571

See listing info under Art Category.

850-994-5678 info@timetoshineflorida.com

www.timetoshineflorida.com

Victory Performing Arts Academy

5783 Rolyat Road Pace, 32571

We offer dance classes in a variety of styles. Visit us on Facebook for updates.

850-776-7555 vpaadanceteam@yahoo.com www.dancevictory.com

Equestrian

Life Horse at Grand Riverview Farm

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1911 Mathison Road Cantonment, 32533

LifeHorse is a specially designed horseback riding program which focuses on teaching children and adults with special needs to ride and be around horses. Experience the physical, emotional, educational, and social benefits of riding therapy. Also ask about our Horses4Heros program for military and first responders and our Purple Spurs program for Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Stroke survivors.

850-290-2245 Stacy@lifehorseva.org LifeHorseVA.org

Crazy Acres Ranch

3030 Highway 90 Molino, 32577

Riding lessons for all levels of experience, trail rides and riding camps. Visit us on Facebook!

850-206-8113 www.facebook.com/CrazyAcresRanch

Rustic Trail Stables

4645 Rustic Trail Milton, 32570

Lessons, boarding, shows, clinics, horse care and stable management. Our goal is to provide the community with the skills needed and encourage a love for horses. Find us on Facebook!

850-324-7682 www.rustictrailstable.com

Gymnastics / Cheer

Cheer Athletics

380 Lurton Street Pensacola, 32505

All Star Cheerleading, Tumbling, & Stunt Classes in beautiful 15,000 SQ ft facility with 3 full size floors!

850-542-7003 cheerathleticspensacola@gmail.com www.cheerathletics.com/pensacola

First City Gymnastics

65 East Olive Road Pensacola, 32514

After school program that specializes in teaching the fundamentals of gymnastics, tumbling, ninja skills and group activities. We also offer many class options.

850-474-1068 info@firstcitygymnastics.com www.firstcitygymnastics.com

Flippin’ Out Gymnastics

4062 Avalon Boulevard Milton, 32583

Gymnastics and fun activities. After-school care Monday-Friday until 6pm and extended hours on some holidays/school breaks. Pick up from all area schools. Registration is open!

850-983-1410 flippinoutmilton@gmail.com www.flippinoutgym.com

Gulf Coast Elite Gymnastics

1844 Cowen Road Gulf Breeze, 32563

Offering a variety of classes for all ages, special events, camps, and more! Please visit our website for more information.

850-934-3990 gulfcoastgym@bellsouth.net www.gulfcoastgym.com

Salute Gymnastics

9326 Pensacola Blvd Pensacola, 32534

Recreational & competitive gymnastics, tumbling

and after school training. Preschool classes 18 months - 5 years. Ages 6 years and up. Beginner and intermediate.

850-969-9111 www.salutegymnasticsacademy.com

The FUNPLEX of Gulf Breeze

3123 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, 32563 After School Program available for ages 5-13. Homework time, open bounce, open gym and recreational classes. Transportation from most area schools.

850-932-2297 gulfbreezegym@gmail.com www.gulfbreezefunplex.com

Martial Arts

9th Jiu Jitsu Martial Arts School

7201 North 9 Ave (Suite A4) Pensacola, 32504 9th Jiu-Jitsu Academy hopes to share the art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in a welcoming and familyoriented environment. We have programs for the entire family.

850-485-5559 www.9thjiujitsu.com

Abercrombie’s Tiger-Rock Academy

9409 US Highway 98 #80 Pensacola, 32506 Offering Counter Aggression Training for Adults, Traditional TaeKwonDo for kids, and Tiger Cubs for 4 & 5 year olds. Programs for all ages.

850-453-8400 tigerrock@bellsouth.net www.facebook.com/AbercrombiesTigerRockAcademy

Core Martial Arts

3483 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, 32563 Offering Hapkido, Krav Maga, MMA, Muay Thai and CoreFit Kickboxing. Open to ages 4 yearsadult. Self defense school combining martial arts with physical fitness.

850-585-0950 coremartialartsflorida@gmail.com www.coremartialartsflorida.com

Falbo’s Family Karate

3031 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, 32563 Helping your child gain self esteem, discipline and confidence. Classes. After school programs run Monday-Friday for ages Kindergarten-6th grade. Registration and forms available online.

850-934-7977 info@FalbosFamilyKarate.com

www.falbosfamilykarate.com

Gracie Downtown Jiu-Jitsu

106 South Palafox Street Pensacola, 32502

We hope to share the art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in a welcoming and family-oriented environment. We have programs for the entire family.

850-503-0340 baker@graciepensacola.com www.9thjiujitsu.com

MAA Family Karate

4050 Avalon Boulevard Milton, 32583

Offering a variety of programs for youth including after school karate, self-defense, stressmanagement and more. Visit our website for other locations in Navarre, and Pace.

850-983-0870 www.maafamilykarate.com

Pensacola ATA Martial Arts

6247 North Davis Highway Pensacola, 32504

We offer programs in Kids Martial Arts, Adult Martial Arts, Krav Maga, Summer Camp, and Birthday Parties. Ages 4 to adult. Call or sign-up on our website.

850-791-6777 pensacolaata@gmail.com www.pensacolaata.com

PTSDA After School Karate Program

2500 West Nine Mile Road Pensacola, 32534

We offer traditional karate classes, Tiny Tiger classes, After School Programs and camps. Our goals are discipline, respect, and fun with purpose.

850-478-0680 www.ptsda.com

Sexton’s Tiger Rock Martial Arts Gulf Breeze

3235 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, 32563

Providing health, skills and fitness training for all ages. Our programs enrich their personal and professional lives in many ways. Ages 3 years to adult.

850-932-2248 sextonstigerrockgb@gmail.com www.tigerrockmartialarts.com

Tiger Rock Martial Arts Pace/Milton

3981 US Highway 90 Pace, 32571

Self-defense skills and fitness training through Martial Arts for all ages. Programs teach respect, self control, self defense, discipline and confidence. Register today!

850-994-8610 www.tigerrockgulfcoast.com

Tiger Rock Martial Arts Pensacola

1151 Office Woods Dr (Ste E) Pensacola, 32504

Self-defense skills and fitness training through Martial Arts for all ages. Programs teach respect, self control, self defense, discipline and confidence. Register today!

850-484-2644 Pensacola@tigerrockgulfcoast.com www.tigerrockgulfcoast.com

Music

LaBelle Performing Arts

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8253 Chellie Road Pensacola, 32526

Registration for returning students is July 28, 5:00-8:00 pm at LaBelle. Registration for new and returning Students: July 29, 10 am-1 pm

850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com

Pensacola Children’s Chorus

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46 E Chase Street Pensacola, 32502

Audition appointments can be scheduled online. Financial aid available for qualified families. We provide music education and performances in classical choral training and musical theater. 850-434-7760 admin@pensacolachildrenschorus.com www.pensacolasings.org

A Joyful Noise Music Store

6377 Highway 90 Milton, 32570

Instrument repairs and private music lessons. Acoustic, electric guitars, bass, amps, pianos, folk instruments, ukuleles, and string instruments. Sound equipment, instrument repairs, rentals and sales.

850-983-3008 david@ajoyfulnoisemusic.com www.ajoyfulnoisemusic.com

ARC Music and Sound Inc.

3094 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, 32563

A music retail & repair store. We have a Lesson Program for students. Find us on Facebook. 850-932-2578 arcmusicandsound@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Blues Angel Music

657 North Pace Boulevard Pensacola, 32505

Private music lessons for a variety of instruments including piano, guitar, bass, drums and more. Serving Pensacola and surrounding areas. 850-457-7557 info@bluesangelmusic.com www.bluesangelmusic.com

Gary’s Guitar Lessons

1921 Creighton Road Pensacola

Lessons for guitar and bass. Contact Gary for scheduling and pricing.

850-529-4750 garyguitarlessons@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Guitarlessonspensacola

Gulf Breeze School of Music

5 Center Road Gulf Breeze, 32561

We offer convenient times/location for Piano, Guitar, Voice, String, Band Instrument, and Percussion lessons. In person and online availability. Preschool Classes for ages 2-5. Serving Gulf Breeze for 12 years.

850-261-8824 www.gulfbreezeschoolofmusic.com

Gulf Coast School of Music

812 East DeSoto Street Pensacola, 32501

Learn how to play guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, ukulele lessons and songwriting. Call or visit us on Facebook or our website. Ages 7 to adult.

850-207-9795 gcsompcola@gmail.com

www.gulfcoastschoolofmusic.com

Minds on Music

3206 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, 32563 Music lessons for all ages. Mom & Me (ages 3 months-3 years), pre-piano (3-6 years), piano, music therapy and much more. Computer lab and private instruction. Our curriculum makes learning music fun!

850-203-1775 info@mindsonmusic.net www.mindsonmusic.net

Music Lessons with Rodney Brown

105 North Palafox Street Pensacola, 32502

Lessons for saxophone, clarinet, bass, jazz improv and beginning flute and piano.

850-261-7689 rodneybrown@me.com www.musicbyrodneybrown.com

Pensacola Music Teachers Association

Escambia & Santa Rosa Counties, Music and voice classes and lessons in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in Northwest Florida. Visit our website for a list of music teachers. pmta.pensacola@gmail.com www.pmta.info

Pensacola String Academy

4880 Peacock Drive Pensacola, 32504

Private and group string lessons in violin, viola, cello, and string bass. We welcome all students, beginner to advanced, ages 3 years to post retired.

850-525-2553 Pensacolastringacademy@gmail.com www.pensacolastringacademy.com

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra

205 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, 32502

The PSO offers a wide spectrum of engaging educational experiences for all ages. Information about our educational programs can be found on our website.

850-435-2533 info@pensacolasymphony.com www.pensacolasymphony.com

Ron Kaye’s Music Instruction

4696 Kimberly Drive Pensacola, 32526

Drum, guitar, bass, piano, voice lessons, banjo, mandolin, violin, ukulele, and more. Many students become multi-instrumentalists! Learn to understand music and open up another wonderful world.

850-453-9966 info@musiclessonspensacola.com www.musiclessonspensacola.com

Time To Shine Center for Performing Arts

4375 Woodbine Road Pensacola, 32571

See listing info under Art Category.

850-994-5678 info@timetoshineflorida.com

www.timetoshineflorida.com

West Florida Home Education Music Association

Several performance groups for both wind & string instruments. Weekly instruction, concerts, community outreaches. All-State/County opportunities, solo and ensemble competitions. Ages 8 - 18 years.

850-977-4470 homeschoolbandandstrings@gmail.com www.homeschoolbandandstrings.com/

Scouting

Boy ScoutsGulf Coast Council

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9440 University Parkway Pensacola, 32514

Scouting for Boys and Girls. Cub Scouts (ages 7-10), Scouts BSA (11 - 17), Venturing (14 - 20) and Explorers (10 - 20). Visit www.BeAScout.org to find local units.

850-476-6336 gulfcoastcouncil@gmail.com

www.gulfcoastcouncil.org

American Heritage Girls

Pensacola

A faith-based leadership and character development program for girls ages 5-18. Badge programs, service projects, leadership, and outdoor experiences. Visit our website for more information and local troops.

513-771-2025 www.americanheritagegirls.org

Girl Scouts of Gateway Council

Pensacola, 32504

Girls prepare for a lifetime of leadership, success, and adventure! Visit our website to join. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GirlScoutsEscCoFl

877-764-5237 customercare@girlscouts-gateway.org

www.joingsgc.org

Trail Life USA

A Christ-Centered, outdoor Leadership Ministry for boys and young men ages K - 12th grade. Troops are chartered by area churches. www.traillifeusa.com

U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Pensacola

Comprised of the Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC) for ages 10 - 13 years and Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) for 13 - 18 years.

703-243-6910

www.seacadets.org

Sports

Alpha Elite

Recreational Youth Basketball League

ad on Inside Back

Cover Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street Pensacola, 32502

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

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

Basketball Boot Camp

Woodland Heights Center, 111 Berkley Drive 850-435-1750 tthomas@cityofpensacola.com

Please contact center for team sports information.

Bill Bond Baseball and T-Ball

Roger Scott Athletic Complex, 2130 Summit Boulevard Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for team sports

information and for registration.

850-912-4056

billbondbaseball@gmail.com www.billbond.org

Greater Pensacola Figure Skating Club

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Pensacola Bay Center, 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, 32502 Master the fundamentals of figure skating or hockey! Group lessons & private coaching for ages 3 to adult, beginners to competitors & skaters with disabilities. Season runs OctoberApril. Visit our website to register. Skaters from Mobile, AL to Panama City, FL. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram! 850-400-3222 info@pensacolafigureskating.com https://pensacolafigureskating.com/

i9 Sports ad on page 20

i9 Sports® is the nation’s largest multi-sport provider focused solely on high-quality, communitybased youth sports programs. To achieve our mission of helping kids succeed in life through sports,

we teach the importance of good sportsmanship on the field and in life.

850-565-1935 justin.ward@i9sports.com www.i9sports.com

Pensacola Girls Youth Volleyball ad on Inside Back Cover

Roger Scott Athletic Complex, 2130 Summit Boulevard Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

850-912-4056 aodee@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Pensacola Youth Basketball League ad on Inside Back Cover

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

850-912-4056 aodee@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Pensacola Youth Cheerleading

NEP Wildcats, East Pensacola Rattlers, Legion Field Tigers ad on Inside Back Cover

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

850-912-4056 cfox@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Pensacola Youth FootballNEP Wildcats, East Pensacola Rattlers, Legion Field Tigers ad on Inside Back Cover

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

850-912-4056 cfox@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Pensacola Youth Soccer ad on Inside Back Cover

3221 Langley Ave Pensacola, 32504

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

850-366-8764 phil@pensacolayouthsoccer.com www.pensacolayouthsoccer.com

Roger Scott Tennis Center ad on Inside Back Cover

2220 A Summit Boulevard Pensacola, 32503

Please contact our center directly for team sports information.

850-912-4103 www.rogerscotttennis.com

Alpha Omega Performance Training

490 East Heinberg Street Pensacola, 32502

Alpha Omega Youth “AlphaKids” classes are meant to be fun for youth of all ages. Our classes, led by degreed coaches, provide an opportunity to build fitness, create healthy lifestyles, and work together with peers.

850-377-1862 alphaomegaperformance.com/

Barracuda Swimworks - Beth Barr

Pensacola

Olympic Silver Medalist Beth Barr offering private lessons and stroke instruction.

850-860-6525 beth@barracudaswimworks.com www.barracudaswimworks.com

Bayside Rush - Soccer

Gulf Breeze, 32563

We are dedicated to the education and development of youth soccer players at all levels of competitive play. www.baysiderush.com

Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA

165 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, 32502

We offer school-age kids and middle school youth a safe, fun place to spend time before and after school while parents manage their work responsibilities. We also have sports. We encourage teamwork and sportsmanship while improving coordination. For registration, visit our website.

850-438-4406 www.ymcanwfl.org

Ensley Youth Sports Association

Pensacola

A non-profit organization dedicated to teaching fair play, sportsmanship, work ethic & community pride to youth ages 4-14. Contact us for registration information.

850-378-1325 eysainc@gmail.com www.eysainc.org

First Tee Gulf Coast

3924 West Navy Boulevard Pensacola, 32507

Promoting character development and life values through the game of golf.

850-456-7010 contactus@firstteegulfcoast.org https://firstteegulfcoast.org/

Greater Pensacola Aquatic Club

1000 College Boulevard Pensacola, 32504

Year round competitive swimming, seasonal swimming (summer league & clinics) as well as group Swim Lessons.

850-484-1312 gpacswimcoach@gmail.com www.gpacswimteam.org

Gulf Breeze Futbol Academy

4901 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze

Competitive soccer. Improve individual skills through practice sessions and games at competitive, age-appropriate levels. Visit us online to register for competitive and recreational season.

850-602-7540 www.gulfbreezefa.com

Hype Pensacola

Various locations, Pensacola

HYPE Pensacola is a Non Profit Youth Mentoring Program offering academic, sports, tutoring, workshops and much more.

850-382-4130 http://www.hypepensacola.org/

Innerlight Surf Shop & Lessons

Pensacola, 32561

Surf lessons for beginners to intermediate. Private, semi-private and group settings. Participants must be strong swimmers. Ages 6 and up. Visit our website for locations near you!

850-932-5134; 850-495-3507 www.innerlightsurf.com

Northeast Pensacola Sports League (NEP)

555 East Nine Mile Road Pensacola, 32514

Visit our website and Facebook page at NEP Ballpark for Fall registration and schedules. clubs.bluesombrero.com/nepbaseballsoftball

Northwest Florida Youth Sports Alliance

Pensacola

Football for ages 5 to 14 years of age teaching the basic fundamentals of the game, teamwork, good sportsmanship, discipline and leadership.

850-530-4765 www.nwfysa.org

Pensacola Futbol Club

We are a premier youth soccer club in Northwest Florida.

(850) 477-7842

https://pensacolafutbolclub.com/

Pensacola Junior Ice Flyers

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, 32502

Bringing youth ice hockey to the Northwest Florida area. Visit our website for more information. info@jriceflyers.com www.jriceflyers.com

Pensacola Lacrosse Association for Youth Pensacola

Boys and Girls youth lacrosse teams grouped by age and skill. Instruction offered at all levels, for fun and competitive play. Visit us on Facebook for Fall updates.

850-393-7758 Pensacolaheroeslacrosse@gmail.com www.pensacolalacrosse.com

Perdido Bay Youth Sports Association

Pensacola, 32506

Education and development in community youth through organized sports. Our league offers Track and Field, baseball, basketball, lacrosse, football, softball, cheerleading, and flag football. Visit our website for fall registration.

850-665-0447 pbysa.webmail@gmail.com www.pbysa.org

RG Tennis Center

Montessori School of Pensacola, 4100 Montessori Drive Pensacola, 32504 Programs available for ages 4 years - adult. Group tennis, strokes, serving, proper form and court etiquette. Sign up for our after school clinics. We also offer Pickleball program for ages 7 and up.

209-298-3389 or 850-443-4878 https://app.courtreserve.com/Online/Portal/Index/9590

Southern Youth Sports Association

1320 West Gregory Street Pensacola, 32502

Basketball, cheerleading, baseball, football and tutoring programs. The program is administered by local community leaders & Volunteers. Fall registration online now.

850-438-6233 www.sysatigers.org

Tiger Point Golf Club

1255 Country Club Road Gulf Breeze, 32563 Private & group lessons, clinics, and junior academy programs available. Player development programs for professional instruction.

850-930-4653 traybon@tigerpointgolf.com www.tigerpointgolf.com

Tighten Up Tennis

800 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, 32561 Shoreline Tennis Facility is located in beautiful Shoreline Park in Gulf Breeze, FL. Many tennis programs are offered for players of all ages and levels.

850-554-9547 www.facebook.com/TightenUpTennis/ Waterboyz

380 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, 32502 Full service board shop with skate park. Lessons for beginner and intermediate in surfing, skateboarding and skimboarding. We teach the basics, etiquette and knowledge.

850-433-2929 help@waterboyz.com

www.waterboyz.com

West Florida Waves Volleyball

Pensacola, Gulf Breeze & Milton, Providing volleyball skill instruction and playing opportunities to junior age girls from the Pensacola and surrounding areas. Our program welcomes and develops diverse athletes committed to these values - hard work, discipline, sportsmanship, competition, and opportunity.

www.westfloridawaves.com

STEM

Code Ninjas

ad on page 29

3 W 9 Mile Rd Suite #5 Pensacola, 32534

Kids learn to code while building their own video games and gain problem solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills in a fun and inspiring environment. Ages 5+.

850-889-8636 pensacolafl@codeninjas.com

www.codeninjas.com/fl-pensacola

Escambia County 4-H

3740 Stefani Road Cantonment, 32533

4-H is open to boys and girls ages 5-18. Opportunities include community clubs, workshops, day camps, residential camps, school enrichment programs, state and national programs.

850-475-5230 www.facebook.com/UFIFASEscCounty

La Maison of Cards

Rex Theater, 18 N Palafox St, Pensacola, 32502

Unlock your child’s full potential with our exciting after-school program! At La Maison of CardsPensacola’s First Magic School, we blend learning and fun through captivating magic lessons. Watch their confidence soar as they master mind-blowings tricks. Enroll now and let the magic begin! 850-501-7692 maisonofcards@gmail.com

www.lamaisonofcards.com

Pensacola Mess Hall

418 E Wright St Pensacola, 32501

Explore math, engineering, science and stuff with the MESS Hall. See our website for information. 877-937-6377 info@pensacolamesshall.org www.pensacolamesshall.org

Theater

LaBelle Performing Arts

ad on page 20

8253 Chellie Road Pensacola, 32526

Registration for returning students is July 28, 5:00-8:00 pm at LaBelle. Registration for new and returning Students: July 29, 10 am-1 pm

850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com

Pensacola Little Theatre

ad on page 17

400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, 32502 Training & guidance for performers, writers, designers, directors, and technicians of all ages. Classes, workshops, intensives, and camps offered with a variety of educational opportunities. Register today!

850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com

Mixon Magic Performing Arts

1010 N. 12th Ave Suite #238 Pensacola, 32501

Now registering for fall! Offering classes in musical theatre, ballet, tap, broadway dance, and much more! Ages 3 - Adult.

850-221-7438 hello@mixonmagic.com www.mixonmagic.com

Neighborhood Children’s Theatre

Offers engaging electives, education, and entertainment for children!

857-220-8589 hello@myneighborhoodtheatre.com myneighborhoodtheatre.com/classes

Time To Shine Center for Performing Arts

4375 Woodbine Road Pensacola, 32571

See listing info under Art Category.

850-994-5678 info@timetoshineflorida.com

www.timetoshineflorida.com GPP

Role model. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), traffic accidents remain the leading cause of injury and death among teens, but setting a positive example can help nurture an aware, focused driver.

“We as parents have a great deal of influence in how our children are going to drive by how they see us driving,” says pediatric safety specialist Brad Winfrey, BSN, RN, CPEN, CPST. “That’s why it’s so important that parents role model driving at safe speeds, wearing seatbelts and not driving distracted.”

Teach the MVPs of driving. After working “in the emergency department (at a children’s hospital) for 30 years, I certainly saw the impact of what teen driving, lack of experience and distraction can do to the driver and the passengers,” Winfrey says.

Winfrey teaches young drivers the acronym “MVP”:

Mind - Keep your mind on driving and stay aware of what is happening around you. Pay attention to road signs, traffic lights and construction zones.

Vision - Your eyes should be on the road ahead of you and not elsewhere in the vehicle, like texting on the phone, posting to social media or fiddling with the radio.

Practice - Practice in a variety of weather conditions, roadways, construction areas and especially at night, when visibility is limited and oncoming headlights can be blinding. With evening school activities and part-time jobs, teens frequently drive at night.

From the time they are infants, we take the necessary precautions to protect our kids, but how can we keep them safe once they start driving?

Limit passengers. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that a 16 or 17-year-old’s risk of death per mile rises 44 percent when carrying one passenger younger than 21 and quadruples when transporting three or more passengers under the age of 21. The potential for risk-taking behavior also increases, including not wearing seatbelts, speeding and drinking alcohol.

Many graduated driver’s licensing (GDL) programs, which have been enacted to some degree in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, restrict the number of passengers. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the GDL program has reduced teen crashes by 20 to 40 percent.

Download Life 360. John Lacy, a police officer, recommends the Life 360 app to help you keep track of your teen’s whereabouts. The app also provides crash detection and emergency response and weekly driver reports, highlighting phone usage, acceleration, braking and top speeds.

“Don’t tell your children that they’re being added to Life 360. Just do it,” Lacy says. “Kids are very crafty. If they know that something like that is on their phone, they’ll disable it. Remember, it’s your phone, not your kid’s cell phone.”

If you prefer to be open with your teen about the app, tell them that as a minor on the road, it provides a non-negotiable, additional layer of safety and security.

Educate them about the vehicle. Acquaint your teen with the car’s features like how to turn on the headlights, where the defrost is located, how to turn on windshield wipers, how to open the gas tank and how to

fill it. Also, teach them how to change a tire. (Check the spare tire every three months to ensure it is aired up.)

Under the hood, point out the battery and how to check the oil. Store a roadside emergency kit in the trunk with plastic flare reflectors (available at auto shops and online).

Know the dos and don’ts of roadside assistance. Your teen should contact you and/or the police if they are in a car accident, become stranded or get lost. If they get lost, which isn’t uncommon for new drivers, tell them to call you first.

“It’s okay to call the police if they’re lost, too,” Lacy says.

If your teen gets a flat tire, instruct them to call the police first and then you.

“The reason I like an officer there is because the lights provide protection especially at night, and reminds people to slow down,” Lacy says.

Unfortunately, we don’t always know if a stranger offering help is acting as a good samaritan or has more nefarious intentions. If your teen is stranded, they should wave on those offering help and tell them that the police will arrive shortly.

Manage a traffic stop. Explain to your teen that if they get stopped by the police, they should pull over to the righthand side of the road, into a well-lit parking lot or onto private property to keep them and the officer safe from oncoming traffic.

Traffic stops can be stressful even for adults. Encourage your teen to calmly follow the officer’s instructions. Remind them to keep their hands in plain sight on the steering

wheel. Your teen should know where their driver’s license, registration and current insurance card is located inside the vehicle. But, they shouldn’t reach for anything in the car until instructed by the officer.

“The officer will tell you the reason why he stopped you, what he’s looking for, and what he wants,” Lacy says.

After that, the officer will return to his vehicle. “Don’t get out of your vehicle!” Lacy says. “That is the last thing we want you to do. Stay inside the vehicle the entire time and let the officer contact you.”

If your teen suspects that the person pulling them over isn’t a bonafide police officer, they can call 9-1-1 with their location and confirm the traffic stop.

Many police departments record traffic stops. “Kids have a right to record the conversation too,” Lacy says.

If an officer is rude or unprofessional, parents can file a complaint with the department.

Remain patient. Your involvement and patient guidance will help your teen become a safe driver.

“A lot of people immediately want to jump on the bandwagon and say that teens are bad drivers. It’s not necessarily true,” Winfrey says. “They just don’t have experience. With experience, comes better driving skills and better driving habits.”

Sources: Ofc. John Lacy; Brad Winfrey, BSN, RN, CPEN, CPST

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, is the mom of two sons. She and her husband are on the first leg of the teen driver journey with their eldest and wish all fellow parent passengers and their driving teens happy and safe travels!

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One

The Entity, a military AI program, has gone rogue and is controlling the world’s digital assets from its position in a downed Russian submarine. It can only be overcome by a two-part key, so Ethan and his team set out to find both parts. Every major power on earth wants to get the keys – and so do other bad actors. This film doesn’t measure up to the rest of the franchise, being both incoherent and bloated. The expected action elements are derivative, and the pacing drags through a nearly three hour runtime. And it’s only Part One. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

Indiana Jones and his goddaughter, Helena, are on a quest for Archimedes’ Dial, an ancient artefact reputed to predict astrological events. Also on the hunt is a Nazi scientist named Voller, who intends to retroactively change the outcome of World War II. Harrison Ford may well be getting old, but this film shows that he’s still got enough charisma to helm a major action movie. And this is a good one: despite a clumsy ending, this is a fast-paced action flick with enough nostalgia to please franchise fans. Photo © Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken

When Ruby takes an unexpected dip in the ocean, she learns the truth about herself and her family. She’s a kraken, granddaughter of the Queen of the Krakens, and destined to become a powerful guardian of the sea – if she can avoid monsterhunting sailors and crafty mermaids. This movie provides 90 minutes of decent storytelling, solid animation and reassuring messages about self-acceptance. It also features memorable voice talent, with a particularly fine contribution from Jane Fonda. What it lacks is any sense of magic Photo ©Universal Pictures

After spending 12 years tracking down child predators, Tim Ballard is on a mission to save trafficked children – and one little girl in particular When the government revokes his authorization over concerns about funding and jurisdiction, he goes solo through the jungles and criminal underworld of Colombia. This movie highlights a serious problem and gives a voice to abused children. Unfortunately, it offers simplistic solutions and, despite sensitive filming, feels borderline exploitative. Photo ©Angel Studios

Ballister Boldheart is ready to become the first commoner to be knighted – until disaster strikes and he must flee into the forest. Determined to clear his name and save the kingdom, he joins forces with Nimona, a shapeshifter with a thirst for vengeance. This is a beautifully animated film with expansive world-building and a deeply layered story. Parents will want to be aware of some fantasy violence and a same-sex kiss when considering it for family viewing. Photo ©Netflix

Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com

FamilyCalendar

Tuesday August 1

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. August 1-Mr. Big & The Rhythm Sisters https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday August 3

Sportsmans Night Out

6:30 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Sportsman’s Night Out is coming back to Pensacola Bay Center. https://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/ white-tie-rock-ensemble-24

Friday August 4

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Legally Blonde”

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Liverpool Legends Beatles Experience

8:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Liverpool Legends “The Complete Beatles Experience!”. Liverpool Legends are four incredibly talented musicians and actors hand-picked by Louise Harrison- sister of the late George Harrison of The Beatles. https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Saturday August 5

Pensacola Opera Rummage Sale

7:00 AM Pensacola Opera Center, 75 S Tarragone Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for our rummage sale. We will have props, set pieces, vintage items, donated items and more. https://pensacolaopera.com/

Bushwacker 5K

7:30 AM Gulf Breeze , FL Bushwacker 5K https://runpensacola.com/event/bushwacker-5k/

Back to School Event - Florida Blue Center Pensacola

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Florida Blue Center - Pensacola, 1680 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL, 32504 School’s almost back in session and Florida Blue wants to help you get the supplies you need! Join us for a Back to School event at your local Pensacola Florida Blue Center. Enjoy a fun-filled morning with school supply giveaways* and learn about member perks & community resources. This is a FREE family-friendly event full of fun.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/back-to-school-eventflorida-blue-center-pensacola-tickets-670844472877

7th Annual Back to School Supply

Giveaway and Health Fair

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Fricker Community Center, 900 N F St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Hype Pensacola’s 7th annual back-to-school supply giveaway and health fair will be held August 5th from 11-2 at the Fricker Community Center.

850-382-4130 hypepensacola.org

Saenger Theatre Movie Series

7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Weird Science https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Legally Blonde”

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Sunday August 6

Free Yoga in the Park

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Free one-hour yoga classes will be held in Bayview Park or Community Maritime Park on the first Sunday of each month at 9:30 a.m. 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 any other accessories you would like to use. www.cityofpensacola.com

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Legally Blonde”

2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Legally Blonde” 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Let’s Dance 2023

6:00 PM Sanders Beach Grand Ballroom, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Hosted by Liberty Sertoma, this is a fundraising event for Capstone Adaptive Learning and Therapy Centers, and for other local charities. For tickets, contact Christina Johnson at ccjohnsonpc@ aol.com.

Bored Teachers Comedy Show

7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Bored Teachers Comedy Show

https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Tuesday August 8

Bias in AI - presentation by Dr. Brent Venable

6:00 PM Pensacola Mess Hall, AI systems are trained on existing data. And that data is biased. How can we overcome this bias? Dr. Brent Venable, Professor of Computer Science and Director, Intelligent Systems and Robotics Program, University of West Florida and IHMC, will share her insights into this issue during this lecture at the MESS Hall.

Bands On The Beach Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. August 8-Sandy Roots

https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Saturday August 12

Preschool Art and Story Time –Carnival & Circus

10:00 AM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S Jefferson St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us alongside the West Florida Public Library to engage your preschooler in story time and crafts. Capacity is limited to 10 pairs – one parent/guardian and one child. Preregistration is highly recommended. Only a couple of spots will be available for walk-ins, first come first served.

https://pensacolamuseum.org/event/august-preschool-art-and-story-time-circus-carnival/

Scripteasers

10:00 AM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Scripteasers - Studio 400’s and Pensacola Little Theatre’s Script Reading Club is a blast! Join us every second Saturday of the month for a live table reading.

850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Concerts on Canal presents Jimmy Parrish with Special Guests, Bob Durand and Greg Dillard

12:00 PM 14075 Canal Drive Pensacola, FL, 32502 House Concert featuring Jimmy Parrish with Special Guest, Bob Durand and Greg Dillard.

https://info523987.wixsite.com/coc-info

The O’Riley’s 26.2

3:02 PM O’Riley’s Uptown Tavern, 3728 Creighton Rd. Pensacola, FL, 32504 We know that 26.2 sounds like a daunting distance but after all, it’s only 26.2 FEET. The race is limited to 262 people. If you are lucky enough to snag a spot you’ll receive all the great amenities of a Run Pensacola event: race shirt, pre/ post race food & drinks, finishers medal, a 26.2 race sticker, closed off course and race bibs.

https://runpensacola.com/event/the-orileys-26-2/

Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Saenger Movie Series - The Breakfast Club

https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Clear Bottom Kayak Tours

Navarre Beach Marine Park, 8739 Gulf Boulevard Navarre, FL, 32566 Explore and discover Navarre Beach Reef with a 45-minute Clear Bottom Kayak Tour of the Gulf Side Reef. Tour Times: 8:30 am, 9:30 am & 10:30 am.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/clear-bottom-kayaktours-august-12-2023-tickets-649853608637

Pensacola Children’s Chorus 2023/2024

Season Auditions

PCC Rehearsal Building, 46 E Chase St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions are being held by appointment. Sign-up based on your child’s current grade level at https://www.pensacolasings.org/join.

https://www.pensacolasings.org/join

Sunday August 13

Blues on the Bay

6:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Our free concert series is one of the most popular events for locals and visitors to spend the final hours of their weekend enjoying great music with family and friends in a great atmosphere. Aug 13 – Still Standing (Elton John Tribute) https://www.cityofpensacola.com/1161/Blues-AngelMusic-Blues-on-the-Bay

Monday August 14

Gull Point Resource Center Performing Arts

Open House

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, FL, 32504 Learn more about the dance program, meet instructors, tour the facility and participate in a demo class!

850-494-7360

Tuesday August 15

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside

FamilyCalendar

Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. August 15- Class X https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday August 17

mom2mom Fall Consignment Sale ($1)

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Pensacola Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 The LARGEST kids resale event on the Gulf Coast since 1997! mom2momsale.net

Science Hour

12:00 PM Virtual, Science Hour featuring Blossomland Farms. Facebook live event. https://www.facebook.com/escambia.extension

Friday August 18

Saenger Theatre Movie Series

7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Saenger Movie Series - National Lampoon’s Animal House https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “ Little Wars”

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set in 1940, on the night France capitulated to Germany, Little Wars is based on an imagined dinner party meeting of literary figureheads in the French Alps home of Gertrude Stein and her lover Alice B. Toklas.

850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Friday August 19

mom2mom Fall Consignment Sale

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Pensacola Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 The LARGEST kids resale event on the Gulf Coast since 1997! mom2momsale.net

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Little Wars”

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set in 1940, on the night France capitulated to Germany, Little Wars is based on an imagined dinner party meeting of literary figureheads in the French Alps home of Gertrude Stein and her lover Alice B. Toklas. 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Saturday August 20

mom2mom Fall Consignment Sale

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Pensacola Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 The LARGEST kids resale event on the Gulf Coast since 1997! mom2momsale.net

Free Pilates in the Park

10:30 AM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Free one-hour pilates classes will be held in Community Maritime Park on the third Sunday of each month https://www.cityofpensacola.com/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Little Wars”

2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set in 1940, on the night France capitulated to Germany, Little Wars is based on an imagined dinner party meeting of literary figure-

heads in the French Alps home of Gertrude Stein and her lover Alice B. Toklas. 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Tuesday August 22

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. August 22-Float Like a Buffalo https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Friday August 25

Waiting to be a Waitress Fundraiser

7:00 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St, Pensacola, FL, 32501 This fundraiser for Gulf Coast Kid’s House is headlined by the premier of “Waiting to be a Waitress”, a one act musical comedy dinner theater written by Pensacola songwriter Ross Orenstein and California playwright Jerome Elliot Moskowitz.

https://www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org/child-abuseprevention-events2/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Little Wars”

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set in 1940, on the night France capitulated to Germany, Little Wars is based on an imagined dinner party meeting of literary figureheads in the French Alps home of Gertrude Stein and her lover Alice B. Toklas.

850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

FamilyCalendar

Saturday August 26

Back to School Bash @ Code Ninjas

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 3 West 9 Mile Road Pensacola, FL, 32534 New teachers, new friends, and now a new way to learn. Join us to learn more about all we have to offer. Clubs, camps, and more. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/back-to-school-bashcode-ninjas-tickets-668974499737

Touch-a-Truck & Career Expo

11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501

Touch-a-Truck 2023 will be the LARGEST gathering of trucks, tractors, heavy machinery you’ve ever seen.

https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/pensacola-touch-a-truck-career-expo/

Saenger Theatre Movie Series

7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Saenger Movie Series - The Big Lebowski https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Waiting to be a Waitress Fundraiser

7:00 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St, Pensacola, FL, 32501 This fundraiser for Gulf Coast Kid’s House is headlined by the premier of “Waiting to be a Waitress”, a one act musical comedy dinner theater written by Pensacola songwriter Ross Orenstein and California playwright Jerome Elliot Moskowitz.

https://www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org/child-abuseprevention-events2/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents “Little Wars”

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set in 1940, on the night France capitulated to Germany, Little Wars is based on an imagined dinner party meeting of literary figureheads in the French Alps home of Gertrude Stein and her lover Alice B. Toklas. 850-432-2042 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/

Pensacola Children’s Chorus 2023/2024

Season Auditions

PCC Rehearsal Building, 46 E Chase St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions are being held by appointment. Sign-up based on your child’s current grade level at https://www.pensacolasings.org/join. https://www.pensacolasings.org/join

Sunday August 27

Waiting to be a Waitress Fundraiser

1:00 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St, Pensacola, FL, 32501 This fundraiser for Gulf Coast Kid’s House is headlined by the premier of “Waiting to be a Waitress”, a one act musical comedy dinner theater written by Pensacola songwriter Ross Orenstein and California playwright Jerome Elliot Moskowitz.

https://www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org/child-abuseprevention-events2/

Blues on the Bay

6:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Our free concert series is one of the most popular events for locals and visitors to spend the final hours of their weekend enjoying great music with family and friends in a great atmosphere. Aug 27 – Bay Bridge Band https://www.cityofpensacola.com/1161/Blues-AngelMusic-Blues-on-the-Bay

KC and The Sunshine Band

7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Legendary disco and dance group KC and The Sunshine Band will perform live at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre on Sunday, August 27.

https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Tuesday August 29

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. August 29-Jay Williams Band

https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday August 31

Lullabies & Mudpies Kids Consignment ($1)

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, 800 W Nine Mile Rd Pensacola, FL, 32534 Everything You Need for Littles to Teens, Moms, Dads and Home Goods too. http://www.lullabiesandmudpies.com/pensacola/

Friday September 1

Lullabies & Mudpies Kids Consignment

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 800 W Nine Mile Rd Pensacola, FL, 32534 Everything You Need for Littles to Teens, Moms, Dads and Home Goods too. http://www.lullabiesandmudpies.com/pensacola/ Cinemas in the Sand (Free) Sunset Gulfside Pavilion, 1 Via de Luna Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32561 Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket, and dig your toes in the sugar-white sand while watching classic family movies on Pensacola Beach. All movies are free to the public and will start at sunset.

www.visitpensacola.com/events/cinemas-in-the-sand/

Saturday September 2

Lullabies & Mudpies Kids Consignment

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 800 W Nine Mile Rd Pensacola, FL, 32534 Everything You Need for Littles to Teens, Moms, Dads and Home Goods too. Early bird presale entry 8am $2

http://www.lullabiesandmudpies.com/pensacola/

Sunday September 3

Free Yoga in the Park

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Free one-hour yoga classes will be held in Bayview Park or Community Maritime Park on the first Sunday of each month at 9:30 a.m. 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 any other accessories you would like to use. www.cityofpensacola.com

Tuesday September 5

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. September 5-John Hart & The Price Brothers https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday September 7

Flora-Bama 9th Annual Bulls On The Beach

6:00 PM Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Perdido Key, FL, 32507 Thursday night will feature Junior Riders on Miniature Bulls, a Coloring Contest Bike Giveaway for both a lucky little boy and girl (scroll down for more info), followed by Professional Bull Riding to round out the night. Gates open at 6pm-rodeo starts at 8pm.

https://www.florabama.com/bulls-on-the-beach

Thursday September 8

27th Annual Emerald Coast Beer Festival

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Seville Quarter, 130 E Government St. Pensacola, FL 27th Annual Pensacola Beer Festival - longest running beer festival on the Gulf Coast.

https://emeraldcoastbeerfest.com/

Saturday September 9

Treasure Your Health & Wellness -

The Navarre Community Resource Fair

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Navarre High School, 8600 High School Road Navarre, FL, 32566 Attendees will pick up a Treasure Map before visiting Navarre area nonprofit, service, veteran, health and wellness booths to collect giveaways and valuable information on how to keep you and/or your family safe and healthy, as well as be informed about local resources available in our community www.navarrechamber.com/

Preschool Art and Story Time –Friendship & Unity

10:00 AM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S Jefferson St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us alongside the West Florida Public Library to engage your preschooler in story time and crafts. During this free event at the Pensacola Museum of Art, a librarian will read selections of similarly themed books and encourage movement and participation. Afterward, an art educator will lead parents and preschoolers in a craft related to the reading selections. For ages 2-5 years old. Register in advance. https://pensacolamuseum.org/event/sept-preschoolart-friendship/

UWF Historic Trust Open House (Free)

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Historic Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join the UWF Historic Trust for our special Open House event on September 9, 2023. We will have unique local vendors, food trucks, children’s activities, living history groups, presentations and much, much more! The museums on our site will be open from 10-4 for FREE. 850-595-5985 historicpensacola.org

Pensacola Out of the Darkness Walk

10:00 AM Pensacola Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join us for the our annual Pensacola Out of the Darkness Walk. www.afsp.org/Pensacola

Flora-Bama 9th Annual Bulls On The Beach

6:00 PM Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Perdido Key, FL, 32507 Friday and Saturday night will feature the Professional Bull Riders in the adult Bull Riding Competition. Gates open at 6pm-rodeo starts at 8pm. https://www.florabama.com/bulls-on-the-beach

PAW Patrol Live

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 http://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/

FamilyCalendar

Sunday September 10

Navarre Beach Art, Beer & Wine Festival

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, 8649 Gulf Boulevard Navarre, FL, 32566 Come experience the creative side of life at The Navarre Beach Art, Beer & Wine Festival! View and shop from unique artisans!

Concerts On Canal presents Mike Nash with Special Guest, Tim Nowell

12:00 PM 14075 Canal Drive Pensacola, FL, 32502 https://info523987.wixsite.com/coc-info

Flora-Bama 9th Annual Bulls On The Beach

6:00 PM Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Perdido Key, FL, 32507 Friday and Saturday night will feature the Professional Bull Riders in the adult Bull Riding Competition. Gates open at 6pm-rodeo starts at 8pm. https://www.florabama.com/bulls-on-the-beach

Blues on the Bay

6:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Our free concert series is one of the most popular events for locals and visitors to spend the final hours of their weekend enjoying great music with family and friends in a great atmosphere. Sept. 10 - Astronauts https://www.cityofpensacola.com/1161/Blues-AngelMusic-Blues-on-the-Bay

PAW Patrol Live Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St http://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/

Tuesday September 12

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. September 12-Rust & Gold https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday September 14

Family Fishing Rodeo Benefiting Backpack

Project USA

Grand Lagoon Yacht Club, 10653 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 9th Annual Backpack Project USA Family Fishing Rodeo Benefiting Students in Escambia County, Florida. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annualbackpack-project-usa-family-fishing-rodeo-tickets-623906058817

Friday September 15

Cinemas in the Sand (Free)

Sunset Gulfside Pavilion, 1 Via de Luna Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32561 Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket, and dig your toes in the sugar-white sand while watching classic family movies on Pensacola Beach. All movies are free to the public and will start at sunset. www.visitpensacola.com/events/cinemas-in-the-sand/

Family Fishing Rodeo Benefiting Backpack

Project USA

Grand Lagoon Yacht Club, 10653 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 9th Annual Backpack Project

USA Family Fishing Rodeo Benefiting Students in Escambia County, Florida.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annualbackpack-project-usa-family-fishing-rodeo-tickets-623906058817

Saturday September 16

Rock4Vets 5K Run & Walk

FamilyCalendar

Vettes At The Beach 2023

Pensacola Beach Parking Lot, Pensacola, FL Come join the Miracle Strip Corvette Club as we host our signature event, “Vettes at the Beach” all Corvette car show on beautiful Pensacola Beach https://miraclestripcorvette.com/vettes-at-the-beach

Sunday September 17

Free Pilates in the Park

10:30 AM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Free one-hour pilates classes will be held in Community Maritime Park on the third Sunday of each month https://www.cityofpensacola.com/

Monday-Friday thru August 9

Free Summer Lunch Program for Youth

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, All West Florida Library

Locations, West Florida Public Libraries will be serving free lunch for youth 18 years of age and younger* at all library locations from Wednesday, May 24 to Wednesday, August 9. Meals must be consumed at the library. This program is sponsored by Feeding the Gulf Coast. *Disabled individuals 19 years of age and older who participate in a public or private non-profit program during the school year are also eligible to receive meals 850-436-5060 https://mywfpl.com/

August 5 - September 9

Beyond Van Gogh – Immersive Experience

Pensacola Interstate Fair, Building 6, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 For the first time we allow you to be fully immersed in the mind of Vincent Van Gogh. A virtual reality journey that allows Vincent, through his own letters and words talk you through his artistic process and how he navigates his mental reality and uses paint as the translator of Human Experience. Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10am

– 8pm (Last Entry: 7:00 PM), Friday & Saturday: 10am – 9pm (Last Entry: 8:00 PM) https://vangoghpensacola.com/

Every Monday

Baby Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-436-5060 https://mywfpl.com/

Every Tuesday

Story Sprouts @Ever’man Co-op (Free)

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

Baby Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-471-6980 https://mywfpl.com/

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-453-7780 https://mywfpl.com/

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Bellview Library, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6360 https://mywfpl.com/

Every Wednesday

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-436-5060 https://mywfpl.com/

Every Thursday

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Westside Library, 1301 W. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-595-1047 https://mywfpl.com/

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6980 https://mywfpl.com/

Lego Club

4:30 PM Bellview Library, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Everyone loves LEGOS! Accept building challenges from our staff or freely build your own unique creation! Duplo Legos will be provided for our younger builders. 850-471-6360 https://mywfpl.com/

Every third Thursday

What’s Cooking with Baptist

12:00 PM Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe, 315 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502 What’s Cooking with Baptist will be held every third Thursday. www.everman.org

Every other Friday

Art Academy for Autism

- Ages 16+

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

Every Saturday

Palafox Market

9:00 AM - 9:00 AM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more at the event that’s consistently voted “Best Farmers Market” and “Best Free Thing to Do.” www.palafoxmarket.com

Mystery Book

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Every Saturday we hide the

Mystery Book somewhere in the Children’s Collection. The child who finds it gets a trip to the treasure chest! There is one winner every Saturday. 850-471-6980 https://mywfpl.com/

Children’s Storytime in the Lighthouse

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

www.bodaciousbookstore.com/cafe/

Every first and third Saturday

Hwy 87 Market

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

Creation Stations

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us in the Youth Services department on the first and third Saturday of the month for Creation Stations. Directions and supplies will be set up at stations for youth and their families to complete at their own pace. Available while supplies last during open hours.

850-436-5060 https://mywfpl.com/

Every first Saturday

Body, Mind, Spirit Market

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe, 315 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Local vendors, artisans, holistic practitioners, speakers, children’s activities and more.This is an inside and outside event for the entire family www.everman.org

Every fourth Saturday

Pensacola Arts Market

11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Cordova Square, 1101 N. 12th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32503 Enjoy a local artisan & farmers market with over 50 vendors, food trucks, handcrafted goods, plants, vintage clothing & décor, live musical performances, kids crafts & games. https://fb.me/e/2gXutxLAM

Every other Saturday

Art Academy for Autism

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

Every Sunday

Sunday Market on Palafox

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

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

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Come Sing with the Chorus!

What a fantastic organization! PCC puts on fun and interesting shows with diverse sets that challenge and accentuate the talent of all age levels. The real magic happens off stage, where the children are taught leadership skills, the benefits of hard work and demand for team work in the arts. They are pushed to grow their talent and take chances to expand their horizons. All children are welcome and welcomed, which makes for a great learning and growing atmosphere. I can’t wait to see what’s next!”

- Jim E.

You have no idea how much this program has changed my son’s life in the last 6 months. He’s gone from a sad kid not having many friends to coming home from chorus and saying things like, I’ve found kids like me! and I just feel so happy to do something I love! I appreciate all you all do. You’ve put a light in my son’s eyes that I haven’t seen in a while.”

- Ashley K.

Why Your Young Athlete’s Social Media Matters

Do you have an athlete in your home? If you do, this article is definitely for you. My husband and I raised two athletes. Our sons have been playing baseball since they were four years old. My youngest has actually tackled all three sports, baseball, basketball, and football. And up until my oldest graduated this year, we did not know what lazy beach summer vacations looked like. If it didn’t involve dirt, a bunch of stinky boys, temps hotter than the face of the sun, folding chairs, and a lot of baseballs, we weren’t doing it. I would not trade those days for anything.

While my kids were good at their sports, they were not great. Meaning they were off the scholarship to college and beyond level. However, there are A LOT of kids that are. And they put in massive amounts of sweat equity to secure those scholarships. I have witnessed so many athletes (girls and guys) lose their place on their high school teams and their potential for college scholarships due to misuse of their social media. I will share a few ways to mitigate this and how to use their social media to get noticed in the RIGHT way when looking for scholarships.

Athletes need to remember they are in a position to represent themselves and the school. This brings a lot of pressure

and some scrutiny. Some ways to ensure they do not attract the wrong type of attention to themselves are:

(1) Keep it clean. No foul language. No inappropriate picture sending. Basically, no junk.

(2) Keep it kind. Always support your teammates. And never...and I mean NEVER...use their platform to make fun of or bash other teams.

(3) Remember that the coaches and recruiters that they want to notice them WILL be looking at their social media. So if it is something your mom, dad, or grandma would be embarrassed that you posted, chances are a recruiter will not like it either.

(4) Ask your athlete to go back through their social media all the way to middle school. And remove anything that does not represent them how they want to be represented.

Athletes can also use social media to gain exposure to recruiters. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube have allowed teen athletes to showcase their skills and achievements. They can post highlights, training videos, and game footage, allowing college coaches and recruiters to discover them. This increased exposure has made it easier

for athletes to get noticed and considered for scholarships.

Social media makes personal branding easy. It allows teen athletes to create and maintain their brand. They can showcase their personality, values, and work ethic, making them more appealing to college coaches.

They can communicate directly with college coaches and recruiters. Many colleges and universities use social media to announce scholarship offers and commitments from athletes. This information is readily available to the public, allowing athletes to celebrate their achievements and gain recognition from their peers, family, and friends.

Bottom line: There is great opportunity for our athletes to increase viability and help reach their scholarship goals. But they must remember that college coaches and recruiters often monitor athletes’ social media accounts to gain a sense of their character and decisionmaking. Inappropriate or offensive posts can jeopardize scholarship opportunities, so athletes must be mindful of their online presence.

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.

Open House: August 14 • 5 – 7 pm

Session 1

Registration Dates: August 7 – 19

Class Dates: August 21 – October 13

Session 2

Registration Dates: October 1 - 13

Class Dates: October 16 – December 8

7000 Spanish Trail • 850-494-7360 at Gull Point Resource Center