FromThePublisher
Growing up, birthdays in my family were always a big deal. I am not sure who enjoyed them more, us or my mom. She always got so excited helping us plan our party. My first birthday party with friends was a Raggedy Ann theme. Mom even dressed up as Raggedy Ann! Of course, there were skating parties and ice cream parties in the backyard. But my favorite was always a sleepover party. The house would have a dozen girls or more with sleeping bags scattered all over the den floor. We stayed up all night, laughing and talking. I was the only girl in the family, so my mom loved it. She had my brothers sleep over at friends’ so they would not bother us. While some parents may think a sleepover is a lot of work, they can be super easy, budget-friendly, and fun, as Christina Katz shares in Save Time, Money & Even Sanity By Hosting A Sleepover Party!
Like my mom, I also love celebrating birthdays and love a themed party. To me, a theme helps get the ball rolling. As time got closer to my girls’ birthdays, I could not wait to start planning. We had a lot of fun crafting decor and choosing activities to coordinate with the theme. Some ideas were hits, while others were misses. For the 80s dance-themed party, we used neon splatter, painted black bulletin board paper for the walls, and black lights and glow sticks. For the Webkinz party (remember Webkinz?), we crafted a Wheel of Wow, a gem hunt, and a wishing well. Both of those go into the hits category. However, the “Barbie in a Bubble Bath” cake, as seen on Pinterest, was a complete “fail,” sending me to the store at the last minute. And making leather name bracelets that I thought everyone would think were super cool for the ‘70s sleepover; my daughter was right; nobody thought they were cool. This proved once again that I am not nearly as cool as I think I am. Fortunately, my daughter planned other crafts. Some families prefer to avoid having the clean-up at home and opt for a party on locations at a fun venue. But, if you are good with the mess and your party guests love a mess, then you should check out Christina Katz’s feature, A Festive Mess: 17 Creative Birthday Activities For An Unforgettable Party. The great part about Katz’s ideas is they are not just for parties. Some of these activities would make for some great summer family fun!
It does not matter if you are an at-home party person or prefer the ease of partying at a venue; you are sure to find plenty of resources for your next celebration in the annual Birthday Party Resource Guide. This directory includes places to have parties, order cakes, secure rentals, hire entertainment, and more valuable information to help you get ready for all of your special events. Make sure you tuck this issue in a convenient place. That way, you have it year-round as you plan all of your celebrations! We can’t close out the annual birthday issue without recognizing an important birthday this month: the birth of our great nation. I want to thank all of the men and women in service who work to keep our country the land of the free and home of the brave. God bless the USA!
From my family to yours, Happy Celebrating!
Lynnlynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com
Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
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Greater Pensacola Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 6241 Pensacola, FL 32503. The phone number for voice and fax is (850) 426-6222. Greater Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2024 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.
Teaching Your Children to Have a Growth Mindset
Now that school is out and children are home for the summer, many parents have reached out to me concerned about their children’s lack of motivation. The first thing I help parents understand is that motivation is natural. We all do what we like and will work for what we want. Instead of focusing on motivation, it is vital for parents to spend time helping their children develop a growth mindset. A growth mindset is the belief that we can improve anything through effort, learning, and persistence. A growth mindset will forever shape how your children approach challenging situations, cope with failures through flexibility, and develop resilience.
Consistently have something that they are learning. If you notice a “weakness” in your child, look at it as a skill and help them develop a plan to practice the skill until it is mastered. Help your child stay focused on how far they have come instead of allowing them to feel defeated and discouraged.
on electronics, it is going to be difficult to get them to transition to hard tasks. Selfdiscipline leads to a healthy sense of selfaccomplishment and a strong work ethic. Have them focus on something bigger than themselves. Teach your children to diligently observe the world and focus on how to make it better. Encourage them to look for needs and attempt to meet them. Teach them to ask others how they can help. This basic character development is slowly fading from our self-centered society. Have your children help elderly neighbors, make cards for sick friends, clean a highway, be a member of a team, etc.
A growth mindset is not natural and takes a tremendous amount of work to develop. Parents must lead this effort through intentional modeling, shaping, and engaging. Here are a few helpful hints you can use to teach this life altering mindset to your children.
Constantly have a goal that you are helping them work towards. It is important to learn that “hard work leads to good rewards.” The goal could be purchasing an item, making a video, or reading a novel. It does not matter what the goal is, just help your child set one and follow through until completion. Teach them self-discipline. You can help your children develop this by providing a structured environment. Force your children to work first, then relax every day. Remember Newton’s Law of Motion, “An object at rest tends to stay at rest, and an object in motion tends to stay in motion.” If you allow them to wake up and spend time
Encourage spending time with people who make them better. Take time to find people who help your children strive to be the best version of themselves by encouraging every attempt they make to do the right thing. Watch movies, read books, and listen to stories about people who have overcome difficulties through persistence. Make failure a normal thing in your home and teach your children that it is a normal part of the process of becoming their best. These are not things that you simply say to your children. You must make these experiences that you establish and maintain until your children have fully internalized their own growth mindset. Raise children who never stop learning to be the best person they can be.
Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.
Crab Cake Cook-Off
Join us on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 from 6 pm – 8 pm at Seville Quarter for the Crab Cake Cook-Of to benefit the Arc Gateway. The Crab Cake Cook-Off is one of Pensacola’s most iconic and well-attended fundraisers of the year. Restaurants and chefs are invited to compete for bragging rights and winner of Best Crab Cake on the Gulf Coast. Guests are given the chance to sample world-class crab cakes, indulge on delectable desserts and sip a variety of libations while surveying an extraordinary silent auction and purchase art made by our very own clients. For more information, please visit https://thearcgateway.crowdchange.co/37532.
Movies in the Park
Join us for the Movies in the Park Series on July 13 for Wonka (Rated PG). Bring your blankets and chairs out to Hunter Amphitheater in Community Maritime Park for a family-friendly movie underneath the stars. All Pre-Show Activities Begin at 6 P.M. The movie begins at sunset. Snack concessions from local food trucks may be available for purchase subject to availability and picnic baskets are welcome too.
Red, White and Blues Week –July 10 – 13
Locals and visitors from all over look forward to the annual Pensacola Beach Air Show held July 10 – 13 2024. The show highlights our hometown heroes — the Blue Angels — the U. S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron stationed at Forrest Sherman Field aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola. The Blues hold several practice sessions along the beach in the days leading up to the big event on show day. Kicking off the air show week is “Breakfast with the Blues,” on Wednesday, July 10, at 8:00 a.m. when the Blue Angels arrive and circle overhead to mark the show’s coordinates and center points along Pensacola Beach. On Thursday, July 11, at 2 p.m., the Blue Angels will hold a full practice show over Pensacola Beach. Friday, July 12, is the Pensacola Beach Air Show dress rehearsal, with the civilian acts beginning just after 11 a.m. and the Blue Angels overhead at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 13, marks the official Pensacola Beach Air Show and follows exactly Friday’s dress rehearsal schedule. Please visit https://visitpensacolabeach.com/whatshappening-blue-angels/ for more information.
PenArts Presents The River Bride
The River Bride is coming to The Gordon this summer, July 25th - 28th. The play is based on a famous Brazilian folktale about the Amazon River dolphins. It is a lyrical fable carrying the messages of be careful what you wish for, the power of family relationships, and the unpredictability of fate. Appropriate for all ages. Please visit www.eventbrite. com/e/the-river-bride-tickets-903567573937 for tickets.
Dive Deep with the MESS Hall this Summer
The Pensacola MESS Hall presents special programs every weekday this summer. On Math Mondays, visitors will solve puzzles and make mathematical art. Slime Tuesdays will feature different slime recipes each week. Building Wednesday will challenge visitors to build different things using Legos and other materials. Visitors will discover the colorful world of chemistry on Chemistry Thursday. On Robotics and Coding Friday, visitors will program robots and even each other. Activities will vary each week and will be led by our teen Visitor Experience Volunteers. All activities will be from 1 - 4 PM and are included with admission. They are appropriate for ages 6+.
In addition to the special activities, visitors will explore the many exhibits and mess kits. The exhibits have been updated for the summer. Summer hours at the MESS Hall begin Tuesday, May 28. Hours are Monday - Saturday, 10 AM - 5 PM, and Sunday 1 PM - 5 PM. Admission is $15 per person for everyone ages 3 and up.
First Dance Ballroom Presents The Greatest Showcase
First Dance Ballroom Studio presents the Greatest Showcase featuring local celebrities dancing to their favorite ballroom tunes on July 27 at 7:00pm at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre. Proceeds from this event benefit Children’s Home Society. Please visit https:// www.pensacolasaenger.com/ events/the-greatest-showcase-24 to purchase tickets.
Feeding the Gulf Coast Provides FREE Summer Meals for Children
Feeding the Gulf Coast is partnering with local community organizations to offer free meals to children, 18 and younger, through the Summer Meals Program. The program is supported by the USDA and is designed to fill the nutritional gap when children are out of school during summer months and do not have access to free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches at school. This program has a significant impact on children and families across the central Gulf Coast.
Michael Ledger, President and CEO at Feeding the Gulf Coast, says, “We are partnering with nearly 150 sites this summer across our service area to provide 8,000 meals on a daily basis. Our goal through this program is to ensure all children have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer while school meals are not available.” To find child meals sites near you throughout the summer, call our office at (888) 704-
FOOD or visit our website at feedingthegulfcoast.org/find-help.
Bands on the Bayou
Free communitycentric outdoor concert series at Bayview Park on Bayou Texar in East Hill featuring local musicians and benefiting local non-profit organizations throughout Pensacola. Join us on Saturday, July 27 for our second concert of the year with a performance by Cowboy Park. Come early to claim your spot on the grass near the Community Center and enjoy food and fun from local vendors. Food trucks will be open by 4:30pm, and the concert starts at 6:30pm.
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical, July 19-August 4, 2024. Sensory-friendly performance on July 27 at 1:00pm. In Disney’s Descendants, the offspring of some of Disney’s most notorious villains are invited to attend Auradon Prep, a school for the children of heroes and royalty. Mal, the daughter of Maleficent, leads a group of misfit friends - Evie, daughter of the Evil Queen; Carlos, son of Cruella de Vil; and Jay, son of Jafar - as they navigate fitting in and discovering their identities. However, when Mal realizes that being good isn’t as easy as it seems, she must decide where her loyalties lie and whether to follow in her mother’s wicked footsteps or forge her own path. Please visit https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/showsand-events/disneys-descendants.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Celebrates Scholarship Awards for Eight Local Students
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is proud to announce eight local students in our mentoring programs will receive scholarships through a generous award program, paving the way for their higher education journey. This incredible opportunity comes through a collaboration between Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. Last year, FPL joined forces with the Foundation to award $4.2 million in college scholarships to students from the state’s most underprivileged areas. This initiative aims to provide 1,000 students with 2-year scholarships over four years. The $2.1 million contribution from FPL, matched dollar-for-dollar by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, marks the largest donation since the Path to Prosperity Scholarship Program’s inception in 2021. This program, in partnership with the Florida Chamber Foundation, seeks to reduce childhood poverty in our state by granting deserving students access to higher education.
The Florida Prepaid College Foundation and Florida Chamber Foundation have partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida, among other organizations, to identify eligible students for these scholarships. This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida reached out to high school students who met the scholarship criteria, resulting in eight students being selected. These recipients can use their scholarships at Florida’s public colleges and universities, as well as technical and vocational schools.
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Pensacola Opera will Perform Original Opera at Schools
The Pensacola Opera will debut its 2024-2025 educational series this fall, visiting area schools to perform “The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish,” an original opera commissioned for children. “The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish” was written specifically for children.
Camp Fun at MSP
Summer camp at Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) is off to a great start! Camp is held at the MSP 12th Avenue (East Hill) campus. During the first week, campers worked on creative projects. One they especially loved was a collaborative mix of engineering and creativity. Campers decorated stones and they worked together to lay them out in flower shapes to decorate the walkway into camp.
High School Students Attend Northwest Florida Construction Career Days
Area high school students were treated to an interactive look into the transportation industry during the 4th Annual Northwest Florida Construction Career Days (CCD) event.
Students had the opportunity to operate heavy equipment and learn about bridge inspections, paving, concrete, traffic control, engineering, and were also introduced to the large number of career paths available in the transportation, structural, engineering, and building industries. Students were able to interact with representatives from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), as well as various engineering firms, and contractors looking to hire in the Northwest Florida area. . Students over the age of 18 were also able to fill out applications for hiring companies during the event.
High school seniors who attended CCD in-person or virtually were eligible to receive a portion of up to $50,000 in scholarship funds that will be awarded this year. The scholarship fund was established to assist high school graduates enrolling in college, trade/vocational education programs, or those entering directly into the workforce.
Escambia River Electric
Cooperative Poster Contest Winners
Three Booker T. Washington Sign to Play Collegiately
Three Booker T. Washington boys soccer stars signed to play at the next level. Kyle Hunnicutt, Tony Lipnicky and Ethan Koivu all signed their letters of intent at Booker T. Washington High School, with teammates, friends and family. Hunnicutt signed with Division I University of South Florida, Lipnicky is headed to Division III Ogelthorpe University in Georgia, while Koivu is going to the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, Alabama.
Fifth graders at local elementary schools in North Escambia took part in a poster contest to promote Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s Annual Meeting. The winning students received a cash award, and their posters were displayed at the meeting on April 27, at Ernest Ward Middle School. Winners from Bratt Elementary School were Klaire Bealey, first; Zinaleah Moreno, third place; and Marshall Nall, second. Winners from Byrneville Elementary School were Gracie Levins, second; and Antonia Hayes
Holm Elementary Teachers Attend Space & Rocket Center
Ms. Julie Harmon , Kindergarten (left) and Mrs. Jenn Ruffin , 5th Grade Science (right) from Holm Elementary School are attending a six-day handson Professional Development opportunity at the Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
Pensacola Catholic
High Present Pro Deo et Patria Award
Pensacola Catholic High School held their Commencement Exercises on May 18 during which they bestowed a very special award on a member of the Pensacola Catholic High School graduating class. For the past 41 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 2024 recipient of the Pro Deo et Patria Award – Maria Bush! Maria is presented the Pro Deo et Patria Award by Principal, Sister Kierstin Martin.
Longleaf Elementary School Students Publish a Book
Students in Mrs. Hopkins 3rd grade and Mrs. Kramer’s/Ms. Davis’ 4th grade classes have completed a year-long writing project. Teachers ordered a book publishing kit from Studentreasures.com at the beginning of the year. The kit included all of the necessary materials to write, illustrate and publish a book. The classes decided on a topic to write about and then began to plan, draft, revise and edit their writing. Students also had the opportunity to include illustrations, which is a great way to show off their artistic abilities. Students took pride in their accomplishments and were very excited to see the final, published book.
Escambia County Students
Shine at the State History Fair
Thirty-three students represented Escambia County at the State History Fair in Tallahassee. Of the 2600 students participating across the state, 852 students with 499 en tries advanced this year to the state competi tion representing thirty-two counties. The 2024 theme was “Turning Points in Histo ry.” Escambia County brought home two first and a second-place entry along with special prizes. Our first and second-place winners will compete in the National History Day competition this June in College Park, Maryland.
Join us in Congratulating:
Senior Individual Website
1st Place and Outstanding County Award: Alice Zhang
“Turning the Red Page: How the Chinese Cultural Revolution Altered Education and Chinese Identity.”
Pensacola High School
Teacher: Michael Jones
Senior Individual Documentary
1st Place: Josephine “Josie” Harrell
“How Chicago’s Death Trap Showed Us The Way Out.”
Pensacola High School
Teacher: Blevins Rose
Senior Individual Performance
2nd place: Gretchen Lamar
“A Hard Thing to Swallow: The Medical Turning Point that Saved Millions.”
Pensacola High School
Teacher: Blevins Rose
Special Awards:
World War II Heritage Award (Sponsored by Florida State University Institute on World War II and the Human Experience)
Zanuela Otabil and MyVy Phu
“A Shot in the Vein”
Pensacola High School
Teacher: Blevins Rose
Celebrate Freedom Award (Sponsored by the James Madison Institute)
Military Heritage Award: Sarah Tanveer
“Stinging the Soviet Union: Operation Cyclone as a Turning Point in the Cold War.”
Pensacola High School
Teacher: Blevins Rose
Catholic High Honors Former Student-Athlete with Annual Award
Each year during the Pensacola Catholic High School Commencement Exercises, the school honors the memory of Chris Gallman by bestowing an award on a graduating senior. Chris was a member of the CHS Class of 1999 and a very talented member of both the Basketball and Track Teams who died very suddenly and tragically of an undiagnosed heart condition 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. 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 untimely death, there was a groundswell of desire from all parts of the CHS family –students, teachers, administrators, parents, who all recognized the unique goodness of Chris Gallman and 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 the Chris Gallman Sportsmanship Award. 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(s) for this very special award is conducted each year. In some years, it is just too difficult to select just one athlete to receive this award based on the input about the actions and character of our athletes. This year we have selected two students to receive this award.
The first recipient of the Chris Gallman Award, Maria Bush, participated in Tennis at CHS. Her coach described her by saying, “this student athlete is a tenacious competitor who embodies the priceless virtues that a team sport seeks to imbue – passion, persistence, enthusiasm, and camaraderie.” Maria always offered a smile to every opponent, win or lose, and she was foremost a constant source of encouragement and support of her fellow teammates. She truly embodies the ideals of respect and good sportsmanship as displayed by Chris Gallman.
The second recipient of the Chris Gallman Award is a young man who competed in both swimming and baseball at CHS, Chris Shashaty. His Swim Coach described him as “a true leader of the Swim Team for the past two years.” He encourages every one of his teammates to strive to do their best both in practices and in meets. He helped them set goals, pushed them in practice, cheered them on in meets, and set the example for them. His Baseball Coach says, “he is the consummate team player, putting the needs of the team before his own. He is a role model for his peers both on and off the athletic field.” These are the same selfless attributes exhibited by Chris Gallman. Congratulations, Maria and Chris! Maria Bush and Chris Shashaty were presented the Chris Gallman Sportsmanship Award by Athletic Director, Coach Richard LaBounty.
MSP Congratulates 2024 Graduates
Montessori School of Pensacola 8th grade students had their graduation on May 21st. The ceremony and celebration included speeches given by the students recapping their time at MSP. They talked about their favorite memories and what they will miss most as they head off to high school. 7th grade students performed a play as part of the evening’s entertainment. This Fall, students will be heading to a mix of high schools, including, Pace High School, West Florida High School, Pensacola High School, Washington High School, and a homeschool program.
Escambia County Math Teachers of the Year
Escambia County Public Schools is very excited to announce our ECCTM Math Teachers of the Year. This was not an easy choice because we have so many amazing math educators.
Our Elementary School Math Teacher of the Year is Makenzie Stein from C.A. Weis Elementary. Our Middle School Math Teacher of the Year is Maria Willis from Ernest Ward Middle School. Our High School Math Teacher of the Year is Virginia Snyder from Tate High School. Congratulations to our 2023-2024 ECCTM Math Teachers of the Year. We cannot wait to see what exciting things happen in all of our math classrooms across the district next school year!
Escambia Westgate Center Inspires
If you ever want to be inspired, make a trip down 10 Mile Road, turn on Ashton Brosnaham Drive, and pull up to Escambia Westgate Center. The Westgate Wildcats celebrated their class of 2024 graduates at a poignant and moving graduation ceremony today. Each of these students is the personification of perseverance and hard work, and we couldn’t be more proud to have had the opportunity to learn from them, as they learned from us. Great things ahead for all graduates.
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East Hill Christian Students Head to Europe
Five East Hill students are enjoying a European summer! These students, plus a couple of teacher chaperones, are attending Student Leadership University’s SLU 301 event in London, Oxford, Normandy, and Paris. While continuing their leadership journey, we are excited to see our students understand how they are called to shape history and leave a legacy for Jesus!
Catholic High Scholar Athletes Receive Honors
On Thursday, May 9, Pensacola Sports Association hosted their annual banquet to recognize Senior Scholar-Athletes. Each year, Scholar-Athletes in each sport from Escambia and Santa Rosa County high schools are invited to the recognition program. This year the following students from Pensacola Catholic High School were selected to represent their sport. Students whose names are bolded were recognized with Top Honors for their sport – Congratulations! Chris Rembert (Baseball), James Banks (BasketballBoys), Virginia Lee (Basketball-Girls), Ava Adams (Cheerleading), Xander McLaughlin (Cross Country-Boys), Mariana Contreras (Cross Country-Girls), Turner McLaughlin (Football), Evan Covington (Golf-Boys), Islay Benoit (Golf-Girls), Benton Lane (Lacrosse-Boys), Natalie Biggs (Lacrosse-Girls), Will Watson (Soccer-Boys), Meghan McCarthy (Soccer-Girls), Mackenzie Dobhan (Softball), Chris Shashaty (Swimming-Boys), Amelia Killingsworth (SwimmingGirls), Ben Ling (Tennis-Boys), Gabrielle Goyins (Tennis-Girls), Nathan Carroll (Track-Boys), Elizabeth Watson (Track-Girls), and Madelin Hammergren (Volleyball). In addition to the individual sport awards, Chris Rembert (Baseball) and Gabby Goyins (Girls Tennis) were honored as the overall Male Scholar Athlete and overall Female Scholar Athlete. Congratulations to all of the Crusaders honored!
Take Stock in Children and Escambia County Public Schools Foundation Awards Scholarships
Take Stock in Children and the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation awarded $315,000 in scholarships at the May 17 “Graduation & Unsung Hero Celebration” at the Wright Place. The event honored 23 graduating seniors who received fouryear tuition scholarships and a laptop computer. Also recognized were all of the volunteer mentors of our students as well as scholarship donors.
The 2023 Take Stock in Children graduates are: Escambia Virtual: Hana Scully; Escambia High: Ralynn Durant, Kaley Mastrianno, Keyonte Smith, Jayla Stallworth; Northview High: Allyson Jones, Dequan Shabazz.; Pine Forest High: Amiya Rudolph, Chaeli Lackey, Chancellor Washington; Tate High: Kaylee Emmons, Eliana Howington, Quentin Lewis-Wright, Nancy Mendez-Rostro, Alex-Marie Tartarilla, Malachi Williams; Booker T. Washington High; Jaden Allen, Ariyanna Cunningham, Brogan Dougherty, Kaitie Johnson, Elizabeth Mendiola; West Florida High: Jessica
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. Students receive a college scholarship, a caring volunteer mentor, and college readiness skills. Scholarships are funded through a unique public-private fundraising model in which local scholarship donations are matched by t he Florida Prepaid College Foundation when scholarships are purchased each year. Laptops were donated through a program founded by Nick & Nathan Gupta and currently coordinated by Walton Buckley. Donations come from businesses, community organizations, family foundations, and individuals.
For more information, contact Sally Lee, Take Stock in Children Coordinator, (850) 469-5458, slee@ecsdfl.us.
Hatton, Bailey Poston
Getting Crafty at MSP Summer Camp
Jewelry creation was the theme of the second week of Montessori School of Pensacola Summer Camp. Campers crafted wearable art pieces. They used materials like clay and beads to make necklaces. One day, they upcycled materials by re-using corks to make pendants for necklaces. Whenever possible, there are opportunities to recycle and reuse things. Campers loved wearing their new creations.
J.M. Tate FFA Chapter Attends 96th Florida FFA State Convention
The J.M. Tate FFA Chapter attended the 96th Florida FFA State Convention and Expo with thirty-four FFA members, chapter advisors, administration, and FFA alumni. Members attended the convention, leadership student workshops, and career show. Chapter Delegates (Lawson Theisen and Maegan Coleman represented the chapter at the Florida FFA business session and District 1 meeting. Tate High Principal, Laura Touchstone, attended the convention and shared in the chapter’s accomplishments for the week. The chapter was recognized for awards, honors and accoladesAmerican FFA Degree recipients show promise for the future and have gone above and beyond to achieve excellence.
ECPS Social Studies Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to our ECPS High School Social Studies Teacher of the Year, Sarah Wallace from West Florida High School!
We are so proud of you and your steadfast dedication to your students! An honor truly well deserved!
Birthday parties can be expensive, if you don’t watch your bottom line. And parties at home can quickly add up to the same amount you’d pay to throw a party elsewhere.
But, surprise! You can throw a twenty-four hour slumber party for your child’s birthday that won’t break the bank or cause mom and dad to have a nervous breakdown. Here’s how:
Use Evite. Save on follow-up calls, postage and invitations by using Evite.com for your party invitations. The site offers a wide variety of digital designs and costs nothing to use. All you need to do to round up e-mail addresses for your party guests. After everyone has RSVP’d, you can easily follow up about party details such as what to bring, allergy or medication needs, and pick-up times.
Don’t decorate. Think home protection rather than party decorations and invest instead in plastic tablecloths, eco-friendly plates, napkins, straws, and silverware. If you want to make the sleeping room a bit more magical, why not pull out a couple strings of Christmas lights and twinkle up the windows? If you want a birthday banner for your guest of honor, make the creation of one with whatever craft items you have on hand, the first order of business. Just spread the craft supplies out on the table and have the kids jump in.
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SummerBrightSmiles
Give goods, not goodies. Gather small gifts for your guests that go with your sleepover theme and avoid the usual sugar-overload and tiny trinkets that go home in a traditional goodie-bag. Check out local dollar store or dollar aisle at your local department store for ideas. Manicure or pedicure kits might be perfect for a nail art party. A pair of minibinoculars would work for a spy-themed party. An eye mask makes a good choice for a spa party. And rock star sunglasses are a fun touch for a Karaoke party. Give the gifts to guests as they arrive to put a smile on their face and get them en gaged in the fun.
Pizza is perfect. It’s not really a slumber party without pizza, and this is good news for mom and dad. Pizza in bulk is cheap and satisfying but if you prefer to cook yourself, make everything the morning of the party and simply reheat at dinnertime.
Make the cake (or go with fon due). Bakery cakes can be costly and superstore cakes are often inexpensive but low quality. So why not bake your child’s favorite cake at home instead? Since you won’t have to transport the cake you can make it as little (cupcakes), wide (sheet cake), or tall (layer cake)as you like. And you can also make it as heavy (pound or
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National Chicken Wing Day is celebrated July 29th and this month’s Dinner’s Ready recipe is going to be the perfect way to celebrate! Greater Pensacola Parents fan Chardonnay Pant is sharing her delicious Baked Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings.
“I chose to share this recipe because it was the recipe that made my husband fall in love with me… or at least I like to think so,” said Chardonnay. “This was the first thing I cooked for him when we started dating and I’m still making these wings to this day.”
Chardonnay shares that she came across the recipe in a magazine when she was trying to plan what she was going to cook for her and her husband Jasen’s first date. She assumed it would just be a oneand-done recipe, never to be made again. However, she is still making these wings and now their daughter is also obsessed with them!
Chardonnay and Jasen married in November 2019 and together have a three-year-old daughter named Ezra. The family loves to travel together and while Ezra isn’t in any official extracurricular activities yet, she keeps everyone busy with her love of swimming, playgrounds, and bubbles.
“We love traveling back to St. Croix. We try to make that trip once a year so my husband can go home and see his parents,” Chardonnay said. “We also just love going
on road trips to different cities or states that we’ve never been to. Anytime we go on a trip, 95% of the time we’re driving there. Road trips help strengthen our family bond.”
While both Chardonnay and her husband work full time, they do make dinner at home, around the kitchen table, a priority.
“I love to cook and try new recipes so we rarely eat out. I’m always on the hunt for good recipes to try to mix up our weekly meals,” Chardonnay explained, while admitting she loves to watch the Food Network for inspiration.
“Dinnertime around our house can be a little hectic at times. While I’m cooking dinner I’m usually trying to entertain my daughter at the same time,” she said. “Lately, I’ve found that trying to include Ezra in cooking dinner has helped her feel involved. She loves helping in the kitchen, whether that’s stirring something, adding seasonings, and of course, courtesy tasting.”
Chardonnay bakes these wings up often and usually serves them with a side of mashed potatoes and a seasonal vegetable. She hopes that this recipe might bring your family as much love as it has done for her own. Bon appetite!
Baked Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds of chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Honey Sriracha Glaze
• 5 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup sriracha
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. To make the glaze, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Stir in honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and lime juice. Bring to a boil; simmer until slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine wings, butter, vegetable oil, garlic powder, salt, and pep per, to taste.
4. Place wings onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, using tongs to turn at halftime. Brush wings with Honey Sriracha Glaze and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until crisp and crusted.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro and sesame seeds if desired.
Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.
Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.
A Festive Mess:
UNFORGETTABLE PARTY
By Christina Katz
I don’t mean to brag, but my husband and I have thrown quite a few awesome birthday parties over the years. However, when reflecting back over all the parties we’ve thrown, it’s clear to me that the most memorable parties were not the most elaborate or even the most expensive. They were simply the messiest.
Messy and birthday parties go together better than you might imagine. After all, what could be more festive than a little bit of parent-approved pandemonium? Here is a list of seventeen indoor and outdoor ideas that won’t break the bank.
1. Take aim, color. Mark off a square play arena outdoors with five-foot tall Bamboo garden stakes and blue painters masking tape. Fill squirt guns or squirt bottles with non-toxic watercolor paints, don a pair of clear swim goggles, and let the kids decorate each other dressed in white t-shirts and leggings or sweats. The only rule is no one leaves the field until the paint is all spent.
2. Take a whack at it. Fill a store-bought piñata 2/3 of the way full with cooked, welldrained spaghetti. Then add small plastic toys, foil-wrapped granola bars, and plastic wrapped candies. To extend the fun, hang the piñata on a pull cord threaded through an eyehook so you can pull it up and down as kids swing at it with a bat or broom handle. Secure a tarp underneath with duct tape (indoors) or camping stakes (outdoors) for easy cleanup.
3. Eggcentric art. Break the tops off real eggs and pour the yolks and whites into Tupperware to make quiche or a soufflé later. Keeping empty shells in the carton, fill each with acrylic paints of various colors. Outside or in the garage or basement, hang a large canvas against a sturdy wall or fence and let the kids take aim and fire until they make a masterpiece. Use plastic drop cloths to catch the splatters as needed.
4. Franken-beauty. Make natural facial masks out of banana, avocado or cocoa. Sit guests around a large table in pairs to take turns applying masks to each other’s faces. Be sure to have some hand mirrors handy so everyone can see what all the squeals are about.
5. Construction junction. Supply lots of sheets, blankets and pillows for fort construction. If you can mount a few Hula Hoops strategically around the room, they come in handy. You might also supply bandanas and bungee chords. Be sure to inspect the results for hazards. Keep food and drinks strictly separate.
6. Reach for the foam. Play messy Twister in the yard by mixing foam shaving cream and food coloring. Wear clothing that can get stained. If no one wants to worry about clothing stains, simply use white shaving cream for the same effect.
7. Pudding slide. Make about a gallon of chocolate pudding. Drop large spoonfuls of pudding onto a Slip & Slide. Have guests take a running start down a low-grade slope. To make slide more slippery, have guests sprinkle it with water from a sprinkler can or set the hose sprayer to mist. Add more pudding or water, as needed.
8. Slime ball. Find an online recipe to make nontoxic slime and let guests prepare it. Then play a game of hide the bouncy ball in the slime. Use a blindfold and a timer to see who can find their party favors the fastest. Enjoy the groans.
9. Picasso footsie. Roll out a long sheet of paper and pour puddles of acrylic paint at one end. Have each guest step in one color per foot and walk across the paper. Switch to the other side of the paper to balance out the look. Hang art on a fence or wall to dry.
10. Musical silly string. Put half the group in the middle on a plastic tarp. Encircle guests with the other half of the group. Turn on the music. Have the inside group move in one direction and the outside group move in the other direction, while spraying the inside group with silly string. When the music is turned off, switch groups.
11. Pasta fling. Cook one box of spaghetti per party guest. Get some five-gallon buckets and fill them 2/3 of the way with water. Add enough flour to thicken the water, then add spaghetti. The only rules are: use your own spaghetti, no bucket-dumping, and no touching-just throwing. Put them in the square play arena and get the heck out of the way.
12. Mud puddle fun. On a sturdy table at playing height, fill a small kiddie pool with dirt and just enough water to make mud.
Add digging and pouring toys for an hour of industry for young guests.
13. Duck-Duck-Dump. Have kids sit in circle for a game of Duck-Duck-Goose. But first, hand them a cup of water and a halfcup of flour to pour over each goose’s head.
14. The opposite of tiny bubbles. Make bubble mix with ten cups of regular Dawn Dish soap and five gallons of water. Let it sit overnight. Do not agitate the solution as you pour it into a small wading pool slightly larger than a Hula Hoop in diameter. Have guest don a pair of clear goggles and stand in the middle of the pool without splashing. Let two party guests lower a Hula Hoop over the guest and then pull it straight up into a giant bubble.
15. Three-legged color run. Set up a start and finish line for a short jaunt. Tie the legs of two guests together and have them wear clear swim goggles and white play clothing. Have other guests stand on the sidelines and throw color from bags of nontoxic Holi colors (the type used for Color Runs, available online). The winners take on the next pair of challengers until everyone has run. The most colorful pair wins.
16. Sloppy volley. Divide guests into two groups. Put a line across the center or your play arena like a tennis court. Everyone has to stay on their own team and wear swim googles. Place a table of supplies within reach of the backcourt. On the table, supply large bowls of chilled mashed potatoes, Jello, pudding, and cooked oatmeal. Tint food with food coloring if clothing can be stained. On your mark, get set, food fight!
17. Trashion runway. For a couple of months before the party, don’t discard your reusable recyclables. Spread them out evenly in tarps with plenty of clear tape, masking tape, painter’s tape, and Duck tape. Pair guests up into design teams. Give a time limit like one hour. The assignment is to design a runway-worthy fashion for each team out of only the trash that’s been supplied. Have a runway show afterwards to display the results.
Like most parents, Christina Katz’ first instinct is not necessarily to throw the messiest party. But she’s learned that sometimes it’s fun to throw tidiness out the window and for the sake of big birthday fun.
Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Online Rentals, and Theatrical Releases
Inside Out 2
The Garfield Movie
Sight
The Great Escaper
When Riley turns thirteen, the Puberty alarm sounds , the console in her head is reset, and Joy and the familiar emotions find themselves unexpectedly displaced by Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment, and Ennui. Anxiety highjacks the board and changes Riley’s behavior, putting pressure on Joy to help Riley rediscover her sense of self As with the original film, this is a tender, insightful story, brimming over with empathy for young teens . It’s also clean, family friendly, and full of laughs for viewers of all ages . Photo ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Garfield’s lazy life with human owner Jon and pet dog Odie is rudely interrupted when the two animals are kidnapped by some ruthless canines. The pair find themselves facing an evi l mastermind – and soon run across Garfield ’s father, who abandoned him as a kitten. That story turns out to be more complicated than Garfield knew, and it changes his perspective on his life. Filled with implausible scenarios and slapstick violence, this film is an upgrade on other Garfield movies, delivering messages about friendship, courage, family, forgiveness, and love. Photo ©Sony Pictures Entertainment Motion Picture Group
Dr. Ming Wang is an ophthalmologist famous for helping hopeless cases. But when he struggles to save the sight of a young girl blinded by sulfuric acid, he finds himself confronting the ghosts of the past. As the movie weaves back and forth between Dr. Wang’s medical practice and his perilous life during China ’s Cultural Revolution, it provides examples of bravery, integrity, sacrifice, and the power of education. The story goes further than expected, not only lauding success but also demonstrating the growth that can come from failure and examining what it really means to see clearly. Photo ©Angel Studios
Dog’s lonely life changes for the better after he buys a D IY robot kit. D og and Robot become fast friends, until a day at the beach results in Robot rusting in place. An unintended separation follows while Robot dreams of their magical summer and Dog frets. Nominated for the Best Animated Feature Oscar, this is a touching, heartfelt film which will please adults as much as children. It has no dialogue at all, which pulls attention onto the deceptively simple, vibrant animation This sweet movie is recommended for older kids and adults
It’s been 70 years since D-Day, but 89-year-old pensioner Bernard Jordan hasn’t forgotten. When he misses out on the official Royal British Legion trip to the Normandy ceremony, Bernie slips away from his care home and makes his own way to France. Based on a true story, this is a charming film, filled with pathos, love, forgiveness, humor, hard -earned wisdom, and patience for the foibles of everyday people. This British movie didn’t release in American theaters and is not streaming, but it is available on DVD and Blu-ray. Photo ©Warner Bros
Cakes & Treats
Baskin-Robbins
Various locations, Pensacola
Ice cream cakes. Online ordering is available. Several locations in Pensacola. www.baskinrobbins.com
Bubba’s Sweet Spot
405 South Palafox Street, Pensacola
A candy store and ice cream parlor in Downtown Pensacola. Offering caramel, fudge and chocolate treats!
850-332-6696 www.bubbasweetspot.com
Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe and Café’
236 W Garden Street, Pensacola
Special occasion cheesecakes for birthdays, weddings, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries and more! 850-438-5650 www.chrisoulascheesecakeshoppe.com
Crumbl Cookies
1670 E 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola Crumbl has the best cookies in the world! Our unique flavors rotate each week and catering flavors available! Order for delivery, curbside pick-up, catering & nationwide shipping.
850-905-6414 www.crumbl cookies.com/pensacola
Ever’man
1000 E Nine Mile Road, Pensacola
At Ever’man we offer great party desserts with great ingredients. Our wide selection of cookies, cakes, pies, AND MORE will have you coming back for every occasion.
850-316-3700 www.everman.org
Ever’man
315 W Garden Street, Pensacola
Marble Slab
5405 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola
Celebrate a birthday with an ice cream cake. 850-478-4547 www.marbleslab.com
Sherry’s Cake Shop
510 Massachusetts Avenue, Pensacola
Offering custom design cakes, cookies and more. Visit us on Facebook!
850-433-4208 www.sherryscakeshop.com
music, lighting, audio and video with over 50,000 songs!
850-968-1968 www.adjconnection.com
Animal Tales, LLC
Pensacola and surrounding areas
Make your next event one to remember by inviting live educational animal ambassadors. We aim to educate, entertain, and inspire! Birthday presentations start at $250 in the Pensacola area.
570-428-4259 www.AnimalEdZoocation.com
Smallcakes of Pensacola
5046 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola
At Ever’man we offer great party desserts with great ingredients. Our wide selection of cookies, cakes, pies, AND MORE will have you coming back for every occasion.
850-438-0402 www.everman.org
Great American Cookie Company
5100 N 9th Ave (Cordova Mall), Pensacola
We offer the finest fresh-baked products for every celebration. Online ordering available!
850-478-2200 www.greatamericancookies.com
J’s Bakery & Cafe
2014 North 12th Avenue, Pensacola
Adorable custom cakes, cupcakes, pastries and other delicious treats are available at J’s. Check out J’s Pastry on Facebook to view samples of a few delicious creations. 850-439-6546 www.jsbakeryandcafe.com
Gourmet cupcakes, homemade ice cream, custom cakes and more. Smallcakes: A Cupcakery, as seen on the Food Network and Cupcake Wars. 850-332-5245 www.smallcakescupcakery.com
Sweet Creations by Sharon
My unique, artistic designs will provide a sweet addition to your special day. 850-341-6674 sweetcreationsbysharon.com
Szotski’s Cheesecakes
2600 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola
We offer the largest selection of Cheesecake flavors in Pensacola. 850-466-3477 www.szotskis-cheesecakes.com
Entertainment to You
A DJ Connection
10311 Chemstrand Road, Pensacola
Enjoy the finest entertainment, crowd games,
Bubble Truck
Gulf Shores
Bring the magic of bubbles, laughter and a whole lot of bubbly goodness to your next event! We come directly to your driveway with the Bubble Truck and make mountains of bubbles that are unforgettable! Perfect for birthday celebrations. We travel throughout Baldwin County, Mobile County and as far east as Pensacola, FL.
(251) 200-8369 bubbletruck.com/GulfShores
Crazy Acres Ranch
3030 Highway 90, Molino
Pony parties for birthdays, churches, scouts and family reunions. Trail rides, lessons & camps.
850-206-8113 facebook.com/CrazyAcresRanch
Games on the Go
A Games on the Go party isn’t the average birthday party, it’s the ultimate mobile party on wheels...that comes right to you.
(251) 447-3428 www.gulfcoastgametruck.com
Iron Horse Stables
11 Eden Lane, Cantonment
Horseback riding in Northwest Florida offering pony parties, summer camps, riding lessons, and boarding.
850-982-0954 www.iron-horse-stables.com
La Maison of Cards - Magic School
Looking for an enchanting birthday experience?
Look no further than La Maison of Cards - Pensacola’s First Magic School. Be prepared for mind-blowing shows and awesome magic lessons that’ll leave your kids spellbound. Don’t miss out on the ultimate magical celebration – book your spot today!
850-501-7692 www.lamaisonofcards.com
Neighborhood Children’s Theatre
Bring us to your neighborhood! Theatre, music, dance, or yoga classes can be themed to any birthday party or private event. Ages 2-99!
857-220-8589 hello@myneighborhoodtheatre. com www.myneighborhoodtheatre.com
Nonie’s Ark Animal Encounters
Party Animals For Hire!!! A fun hands-on learning adventure featuring small exotic animals for birthdays! Nonie can also hostess your birthday party with decorations, games, prizes, and the cake!
850-862-9588 www.noniesark.com
Pensacola Photo Booth
10311 Chemstrand Road, Pensacola
Visit our website to check availability and reserve a photo booth for your event.
850-968-1968 www.pensacolaphotobooth.com
Radiant Face and Body Art
Pensacola
Radiant Face and Body Art is here to level up your next party or event! We offer family friendly activities from face painting, henna, balloons, caricatures, and so much more! We specialize in creating smiles and memories that last a lifetime! Get a free quote or book today!
850-366-2249 www.facebook.com/RadiantFaceandBodyArt/
Reno’s Reptiles
Pensacola
Reptile shows for birthday parties, scouts, picnics, church groups, charity events, daycares, and even for some local schools. Choose from a variety of reptiles for your event.
850-393-3004 www.renosreptiles.com
Rolling Video Games
Mobile video gaming theater, Laser Tag, 9-hole Mini Golf, and Foam Parties delivered to you!
850-696-8463 RollingVideoGamesGulfBreeze.com
Kona Ice
Have Kona Ice Truck come to your next Birthday Party. We call it the Kona Entertainment Vehicle, because well...that’s what it is - a party on wheels!
850-262-8100 www.kona-ice.com/local-site/ kona-ice-of-gulf-breeze-and-greater-pensacola
Places to Party
In His Steps Dance Studio
ad on page 21
6231 North “W” Street (Suite 5), Pensacola
Please call for party information and reservations. www.inhisstepsinc.com
LaBelle Performing Arts
ad on page 39
8253 Chellie Road, Pensacola
Let LaBelle take the worry out of planning your child’s birthday party! We are proud to offer child friendly themes, a carefully planned itinerary, engaging & varied activities! Call LaBelle Performing Arts today!
850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com
Laguna’s
ad on page 10
460 Pensacola Beach Boulevard, Pensacola
Celebrate a birthday or host a group outing at Pensacola Beach’s most family-friendly venue. Unique attractions, fun for all ages and GREAT FOOD. Inquire about your private event online today. 850-677-3905 www.lagunaspensacolabeach.com
Pensacola Children’s Museum
ad on page 12
115 East Zaragoza Street, Pensacola
You provide the cake, decorations, invitations. We provide the fun! All private birthday parties include exclusive use of Party Central Room and admission to the museum for all party guests if the party is during museum operating hours
850-595-1559 www.historicpensacola.org/ plan-your-visit/museums-properties/pensacolachildrens-museum/birthday-parties/
Pensacola Cooks Kitchen
ad on page 11
4051 Barrancas Avenue, Suite CWarrington Shopping Center, Pensacola
A PCKids’ birthday cooking party is a fun-filled, incredible edible “edutaining” culinary experience full of hands-on activities for budding chefs! Choose from over 10 menu themes available. Food sensitive menu options (gluten, lactose, nut, and sugar free) available. Parties for children 616 years. 850-456-0743 www.pensacolacooks.com
Pensacola Parks and Recreation
ad on Inside Back Cover
Pensacola
The City of Pensacola offers a variety of facilities for private and public events. Visit Facility Rentals on our website to learn more about Community Maritime Park, Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, Osceola Golf Course, Roger Scott Tennis Center, Resource Centers & Park Shelter Reservations, Event Permitting & Park Rentals. 850-436-5670 www.playpensacola.com
Splash City
ad on page 7
6709 Pensacola Boulevard, Pensacola
We offer some of the best parties in the Pensacola area! Your party guests will go crazy over the water slides, amusement attractions, go-karts, and more. Many different party packages, visit us online to see all the options. 850-505-0800 info@splashcityadventure.com www.splashcityadventures.com
Alligator Alley
19950 Highway 71, Summerdale
Give your child a birthday party they’ll never forget! After your adventure along the boardwalk, have your two hour party in the air conditioned sunroom, where everyone can hold a baby alligator. 251-946-2483 www.gatoralleyfarm.com
AMC Bayou 15
5149 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola
Visit the AMC theatre location nearest you online to view current and upcoming movie showtimes and event options. www.amctheatres.com
AMC Classic Pensacola 18
6595 North “W” Street, Pensacola
Visit the AMC theatre location nearest you online to view current and upcoming movie showtimes and events. www.amctheatres.com
Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site
5709 Mill Pond Lane, Milton
Birthday parties include private Treetop Classroom use. Explore our museum and grounds, and celebrate with Arcadia Mill! Visit https://historicpensacola.org/explore-arcadia-mill/venue-rentals/ for more information.
850-595-5985 x107 www.historicpensacola.org/ explore-arcadia-mill
Blue Wahoos
351 West Cedar Street, Pensacola
Knock it out of the park by throwing a Blue Wahoos birthday celebration! Packages include a message on video board, visit from the Blue Wahoos mascot, a Wahoos souvenir, ballpark meal, group seating for the game, and more. 850-934-8444 www.bluewahoos.com
Bounce House Pensacola
6241 North Davis Highway (Suite D), Pensacola
Bounce houses, slides, sports games, video games, toddler area and private party room. Bounce House of Pensacola has fun filled party packages!
850-417-4692 www.bouncehousepensacola.com
Breeze Cinema 8
1233 Crane Cove Boulevard, Gulf Breeze
We offer birthday parties for children. Parties include: currently showing movie of your choice, child’s concession pack (popcorn, drink, candy), use of party area and a special surprise for the birthday child.
850-934-3315 www.movieshowtime.net/theaterlocations.html
Chuck E. Cheese
7350 Plantation Road, Pensacola
Family-friendly entertainment, kids birthday parties, pizza, and arcade games. 850-476-7724 www.chuckecheese.com
Code Ninjas
3 W. 9 Mile Rd Suite #5, Pensacola
Come join us for STEM-TASTIC Party. We offer 2 ½ hour gaming or STEM focused parties for kids aged 5+ We provide the fun and you just bring the kids!
850-889-8636 www.codeninjas.com/fl-pensacola
Colbert‘s Martial Art Academy
8628 Pensacola Blvd., Pensacola
Specialized martial art classes for preschool aged children, adolescents, teens and adults. My 2500 sq. ft. facility partners with LizzieWorld Events to sponsor children and adult parties, family reunions, weddings, receptions and other social gatherings.
850-476-1188 www.calvincolbert.com
Color Me Mine
4771 Bayou Blvd, Suite 15, Pensacola
Paint your way to refreshing memories. We’ll provide everything you and your guests need to celebrate and create - whether it’s at our place or yours.
850-741-3190 www.pensacola.colormemine. com/events/parties
Cordova Lanes
2111 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola
Birthday party-$175.00 for two lanes, $50.00 for additional lanes, plus tax. Reservations required. 850-477-2300 www.cordovalanes.com
DeLuna Lanes
590 East 9 Mile Road, Pensacola
Pizza, cake, bowling, friends, fun! DeLuna Lanes offers parties for all occasions. Call or visit our website for party options and reservations.
850-478-9522 www.delunalanes.com
Dreamland Skate Center
2607 East Olive Road, Pensacola Dreamland offers great packages for public or private parties for all ages.
850-478-3994 www.myskatecenter.com/welcome-to-dreamland
Emerald Coast Science Center
31 Memorial Parkway Southwest, Fort Walton We’re positive the best birthday parties are a science. We offer 3 different themes for birthday party packages on Saturdays from 10:00am12:00pm or 1:00pm - 3:00pm. 850-664-1261 www.ecscience.org
Emerald Coast Zoo
5262 Deer Springs Drive, Crestview
We offer a great party package to make your child’s day special with an animal encounter, feed bags for the petting zoo, and reserved tables.
850-682-3949 www.emeraldcoastzoo.com
Falbo’s Family Karate
3031 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze
2 hour parties for ages 5 & up. Games, board breaking, & Karate. Open presents on a throne and cut your cake with a Samurai Sword. 850-934-7977 www.falbosfamilykarate.com
Fast Eddie’s Fun Center
505 West Michigan Avenue, Pensacola Fast Eddies provides a variety of party packages with entertainment options like Go-Karts, MiniGolf, Batting Cages, a Large Arcade room and more! Visit our website to view Party Packages –You bring the cake, We’ll do the rest! 850-433-7735 www.fasteddiesfuncenter.com
Five Star Dance
5636 Woodbine Road, Pace
Five Star Dance Centre is now available to rent for a variety of events, including birthday parties. 850-748-2383 www.fivestardancecentre.com
Flippin Out
4062 Avalon Boulevard, Milton
Let us do the work! We set up, serve refreshments, and do the clean up for you! Parties include 1 hour of gymnastics activities, and 30 minutes of party time.
850-983-1410 www.flippinoutgym.com/birthdayparties
FunPlex of Gulf Breeze
3123 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze Gymnastics parties, bounce parties, combination of gym and bounce, nerf parties.
850-932-2297 www.the-funplex.com
Gulf Breeze Community Center
800 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze
Reservations are available online for several indoor areas as well as parks, tennis courts, pavilions, splash pad, gymnasiums, meeting rooms and more.
850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezeparksand recreation.com
Gulf Breeze Zoo
5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze
Celebrate your kid’s birthday or host an event at Gulf Breeze Zoo, the WILDEST place in town! Party packages online. Use our online form to reach us or call to book today!
850-932-2229 www.gbzoo.com
Gulfarium
1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach
Have a splash-tastic day at the Gulfarium with your friends and family and enjoy lunch “under the sea” surrounded by beautiful tropical fish in our Living Sea event room. Please contact the Gulfarium for details.
850-243-9046 www.gulfarium.com
Martial Arts America
2258 Hwy 87 South, Navarre
A Karate or NinjaTrix Party is a fun and different way to celebrate a birthday. Contact us today to book your party!
850-939-9700 www.ourkarate.com
Martial Arts America
4050 Avalon Boulevard, Milton
A Karate or NinjaTrix Party is a fun and different way to celebrate a birthday. Contact us today to book your party!
850-983-0870 www.ourkarate.com
Martial Arts America
3921 Hwy 90, Pace
A Karate or NinjaTrix Party is a fun and different way to celebrate a birthday. Contact us today to book your party!
850-995-4191 www.ourkarate.com
Ninja Life
1211 Rainbow Ave, Pensacola
A Ninja Life birthday party is a great way to experience ninja warrior obstacles. Each party includes 1 hour in the gym. After gym time, we make our way into the party room for 45 minutes of Cake, Presents, and FUN!
850-466-3289 www.ninja-life.com
Oops Alley
3721 Highway 90, Pace
Whether it’s a birthday or a sports team think outside the box for your party. We have an easy, affordable & stress free way to have your party!
850-995-9393 www.oopsalley.com
Painting with a Twist
4771 Bayou Blvd, Pensacola
You choose from any of 16,000+ paintings (2- 3 hour classes), You have a private party room and your own artist-instructor, No set up, no clean upjust show up!!
(850) 471-1450 www.paintingwithatwist.com/ studio/pensacola/
Pensacola ATA
6247 North Davis Highway, Pensacola
In between all the fun games and activities, we also teach the kids some really cool martial arts moves.
850-791-6777 www.kickwithata.com/about-us/ pensacola-ata
Pensacola Kids’ Place
3 West 9 Mile Road Suite 4, Pensacola
A clean, fun, safe indoor play zone for children crawling to 8 years old. Tunnels, slides, ball pit, educational toys and more. Private parties Available. 850-332-5085 www.facebook.com/pensacolakidsplace
Pensacola MESS Hall
418 E Wright St, Pensacola
A birthday party at the MESS Hall is a fun and educational event. Up to 20 kids become scientists as they explore the museum! 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org
Pinspiration
6601 North Davis Highway Suite 5, Pensacola
An all-in-1 DIY Craft Studio based in Pensacola, FL! Splatter Room, Birthday Parties, Summer Day Camps & more.
850-857-8418 www.pinspiration.com/locations/ pensacola/
Salute Gymnastics Academy
9326 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola
Private parties for kids of all ages! Packages also available to churches, businesses, schools, etc. Please call for reservations. 850-969-9111 salutegymnasticsacademy.com
Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park
301 West Main Street , Pensacola
A multi-use, park development on Pensacola’s waterfront. Exhibition space, an amphitheater, playground, festival grounds and is also home the the Blue Wahoos Stadium. All or specific areas may be rented for private events.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
5007 North Davis Highway (Unit 8a), Pensacola Party options and booking available online. 850-378-2570 www.skyzone.com/pensacola
Sweet Frog
3749D Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze
The perfect place for parties and events. Let’s celebrate! Bring your kiddos, or just yourself to celebrate special moments or, just because! 850-583-6405 www.sweetfrog.com
Tropic Falls OWA
1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley Tropic Falls at OWA includes a ride-focused theme park, all-new indoor water park with a convertible roof, and outdoor wave pool and surf simulator—all just minutes from Alabama beaches on the Foley Beach Express. See the OWA website for seasonal hours, special offers and events! 251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com
University of West Florida Birthday Party Packages
11000 University Pkwy, Pensacola
Come have some fun with us! Host your next birthday party at the University of West Florida! Party Packages: Archery Tag, Climbing, Indoor Paintball, Pool and Sport Parties. 850-474-2819 www.uwf.edu
URU Yoga and Beyond
2400 Executive Plaza Drive , Pensacola
Children’s Yoga Birthday Parties starting at $150. Children’s Aerial Yoga Birthday Parties starting at $200. Yoga available at All 3 URU Yoga locations, aerial only at 2400 Executive Plaza Drive location. 850-377-5334 www.uruyoga.com
UWF Aquatic Center Pool Party
11000 University Parkway, Building 73, Pensacola Indoor pool with lifeguards on duty 850-474-2497 www.uwf.edu
850-436-5671 www.pensacolacommunitymaritimepark.com
West Florida Railroad Museum
5003 Henry Street, Milton Visit our website under Events for party information. The Dining Car is available to rent for parties. This car is heated, air-conditioned, has a full kitchen and seats 36. To book a party please email: conductor@wfrm.org 850-623-3645 www.wfrm.org
Rental Entertainment / Party Supplies
Backyard Bouncers
Waterslides, bounce houses, interactive slides, dry slides, concessions, party supplies and more for rental.
850-475-8846 www.backyardbouncers pensacola.com
Bounce-N-Slide
Serving the Greater Pensacola Area, Bounce houses, slides, waterslides, moon walks, jumpers, and more. We deliver, set up, and take down inflatables.
850-384-6464 www.bounce-n-slide.com
Custom Baskets and Balloons
9254 North Palafox Street, Pensacola Custom balloon displays, arches, centerpieces, gift baskets and more. Visit us on Facebook for pictures. We deliver!
850-479-4438 custombasketsballoons.com
Ellen’s Art
1265 Oriole Beach Road, Gulf Breeze
Art parties to go. These beautiful mixed media designs are something you will want to frame. Kids and adults enjoy the creative process of adding texture, painting, all while learning shading and other art techniques offered on Ellen’s Art Kit videos and detailed written instructions.
850-934-8538 www.ellens-art.com
Freddie Fun Bouncers
Freddie Fun Bouncers of Milton, FL is Northwest Florida’s first choice for inflatable party bouncers for every type of event.
850-626-1707 www.inflatablebouncehouses inmiltonfl.com
Gulf Coast Water Slides & Bounce Houses
High-Quality commercial grade bounce house rentals.
850-610-3727 www.gulfcoastwsbh.com/bouncehouse-rentals-pace-fl/
Haus of Hop
Pensacola
Haus of Hop is a inflatable bounce house, water slide and party rental company. We know a little bit about having fun and are making it our mission to bring the party to the Panhandle. 850-417-9373 www.hausofhop.com
Incredible Adventures Inflatables
Incredible Adventures will deliver the FUN! Bounce houses, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Sports Games, Snow Cones, and more! 850-776-1995 www.incredibleadventures inflatables.com
Magic Memories Photography LLC –Photo Booth Rental
Magic Memories Photo Booth is the premier supplier of photo booth rentals along the Gulf Coast regions of Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. (251) 490-5693 www.magicmemoriesphoto.com
Outdoor Fun Inflatables
Elberta
Baldwin County, Surrounding Areas and parts of Pensacola! Obstacle courses, dry slides, water slides, tent, tables, & more. 251-923-7719 www.outdoorfuninflatables.com
Patriot Party Rentals
Inflatables and concessions rental items. 850-889-1020 www.patriotpartyrentals.com/
Pensacola Inflatables
We offer a diverse inventory of entertainment from inflatable water & dry slides, bounce houses, mechanical rides, rock climbing walls, movie screens, concessions and more. All rentals are overnight for FREE! Add a second day for 50% 850-602-9255 www.Pensacolainflatables.com
Special and Sweet
Our mission is to deliver smiles! Let us help you with our special celebration from grand balloon decor to sweet treats, fresh flowers and stuffed balloons for all your occasions, big or small. To see some of our work Find us on Facebook and Instagram @doitspecialandsweet 850-687-8486 www.specialandsweet.com
SupDogs Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals
Pensacola
Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals. They are delivered to your preferred paddle boarding location. Ask about options for birthday parties, corporate parties, youth groups and team building. 850-324-5584 www.isupdogs.com
Yard Love Pensacola
We are a 24+ hour sign rental company that can create signs to help you celebrate the moment!
850-485-2085 www.yardlovepensacola.com/ GPP
Whether it’s at home, school, or at the park, friendships during our youth are probably one of the most basic concepts we learn as children.
I have vivid memories of a special friend I met on the monkey bars as a child. Her name was Michelle, and every day we would meet at that playground, creating wild adventures using our imagination, traipsing from the slide to the swings, laughing and playing for hours. It’s pure, honest, and often comforting; knowing that someone likes you and likes the same things you do.
Surveys show that friendships play a crucial role in the development and wellbeing of children in several ways:
Social Development: Friendships help children learn important social skills, such as cooperation, communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
Emotional Support: Friends provide emotional support and companionship, which is vital for children’s emotional well-being.
Self-Esteem: Positive friendships contribute to children’s self-esteem and self-confidence. Being accepted and valued by peers boosts children’s sense of self-worth and helps them develop a positive self-image.
Cognitive Development: Friendships offer opportunities for cognitive development as children engage in collaborative play, problem-solving activities, and discussions with their peers.
However, friendships are bound to have conflicts, and that’s where teachers and parents can help children by implementing a preventative plan for guiding
children on how to be a good friend. It all starts with the gradual introduction of basic communication concepts that often elicits emotions. The key is to help children identify those emotions and provide examples of positive ways to deal with them.
Here are seven tips for teaching kids how to be a good friend:
1) Explain the concept of ‘communication’ and how one person listens or ‘hears’ what the other person is ‘saying’ as the other person speaks. Demonstrate in a role play where the child talks and then you talk over them. Ask them how that made them feel and if they thought you actually heard what they said.
2) Ask the child to define a ‘friend’ and what it means to them to have a friend. Have them name a friend and why they enjoy having them as a friend or what makes them special.
3) Explain the concept of sharing physical objects, such as toys or food, and provide an example. i.e., a friend comes over for a playdate and you have a toy your friend wants to play with. But it’s your toy, and you wanted to play with it. However, your friend is only there for an hour, and you can play with it all day after they leave.
How do you think your friend would feel after you said yes and handed them the toy?
4) Demonstrate the acceptance of disappointment. Ask the child: How would you feel if the same day you went over to your friend’s house to play and they did not let you play with their favorite toy? If the child responds with ‘sad’ or something similar, explain that sadness is often called disappointment, and it’s okay to feel that way. Educate them on how sometimes things don’t always go our way, but that’s okay because there are so many other ‘toys to play with’ in life. Provide an example from your personal life, if possible, of disappointment.
5) Explore the concept of sharing ‘thoughts and feelings’. Ask them: Do you think it would be okay to share your feelings of sadness and/or disappointment with your friend? Tell them that sharing feelings in a kind way is a positive thing to do. Maybe their friend did not know they hurt your feelings. Practice sharing feelings in several role plays.
6) Revisit the term friendship and what it means to ‘support each other’. The dictionary defines a ‘friend’ as a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard, or a person who gives assistance; a patron or supporter. Ask them who they would call or talk to if they were sad/mad/hurt/confused (besides yourself). Ask them if their friend would say the same about them if asked the same question. Explain that this is called ‘support’ in a friendship and that it takes both friends to make it work, just like each of the two wheels on a bicycle.
7) Introduce the concept of ‘speaking up’. Sometimes a child may feel they are not being heard, even though there are friends and family all around them. Explain to them they are never alone, and all they have to do is ‘speak up’ and talk to someone about how they are feeling or what is hurting them. Give an example of a child who has their feelings hurt by a friend who called them a hurtful name. They say nothing for days because they are ashamed and think others will laugh at them. Then, they told a friend who listened, and reminded them how wonder-
ful they were, and the friend felt so much better afterwards for speaking up. Remind the child that a friend could also be a teacher, family member, or other adult in their life.
Take the time during play, mealtime, or bedtime to introduce these concepts, your child will benefit from the comfort and support of a lasting friendship. Overall, friendships are integral to children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development, playing a significant role in shaping their well-being and sense of identity. Furthermore, healthy friendships can last for years and add value and insights to a child’s life for years to come. I often think of Michelle and what had become of her, as I lost touch when she moved away to Nevada when I was twelve. I’ll never forget our adventures and the special bond we created as friends.
Cheryl Denise Bannerman is an award-winning, multi-genre author of ten published works of fiction. When she is not writing, Ms. Bannerman is running her 28-year-old virtual B2B Training and Development company based in Orlando, Florida.
Compassion AND Reasonable Boundaries
Q. I have one person who seems to have endless things pop up throughout the year, and she’s always asking for extra time off. This year, she has already used up her paid time off (PTO), knowing she has fertility treatments scheduled later in the year that would require time off. I’ve always wanted my business to remain family-oriented and employee-friendly as we grew. But I’m starting to feel like she may be taking advantage of me. Any advice?
A. The fact that you’re conflicted about this shows you have a good heart. Team members are individuals, not units of production. We all have unique hopes and dreams, and you should recognize and respect that. But it sounds like this particular
And as time’s gone by, I’ve started listening to my gut to differentiate actual needs from stupidity. I try to treat other people the way I’d like to be treated, instead of just through the lens of what I want or what’s good for Ramsey Solutions.
If a team member is going to make a series of bad choices, I’m going to assume at some point they don’t really want to work here. You can be the nicest, sweetest person in the world and still do dumb things that make you unemployable. But holding someone accountable for their actions doesn’t mean you lack compassion.
person to keep their job at that point). Every situation’s different, and we decide things like that on a case-by-case basis.
Now, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with this lady’s desire to have a family. I think that’s a great thing. But she knew these treatments were in her future when she took the other PTO. You’re showing great concern and compassion for your employee, but it’s almost like you want her to win more than she wants to win.
We’ve had situations at my company where someone runs through their PTO, then something comes up. We evaluate the situation, and we might extend some grace and give them extra paid time off. Sometimes we might give time off, but it’s unpaid. Other times, it might be out of the question to give the time off (or for the
I think in this situation, you probably let your compassion go a
Marcus Pointe Baptist Church
6205 North W Street Pensacola, 32505
Theme: Super Summer Spectacular with Christian magician Stephen Bargatze
Dates: July 3, 2024 Times: 6:30 PM Free for the whole family (850) 479-8337 www.pensacolachurch.org
Campus Church
115 Saint John Street Pensacola, 32503
Theme: The Great Jungle Journey
Dates: July 7-11, 2024 Times: 6:15pm - 8:15pm Ages: K4 - 6th grade and Special Needs (850) 479-6575 www.campuschurch.com
Charity Chapel
5820 Montgomery Avenue, Pensacola, FL 36526
Theme: Set Sail
Dates: July 8-11, 2024 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Ages: PK-6th Grade (850) 944-5520 www.charitychapel.org
First Christian Church
6031 Goodrich Ave, Pensacola 32504
Dates: July 8th - 12th Times: 9 AM - 12 Noon
Theme: The Great Jungle Journey Ages: For K4- 6th grade
Also, please join us at 11:00 am on Sunday, July 7th for a church service followed by lunch. At approximately 1:30 Animal Tales, LLC will join us to educate and entertain with live animals! 850-477-1642 1stchristian@bellsouth.net www.fccpensacola.myanswers.com/jungle-journey
McIlwain Presbyterian Church
1220 East Blount Street Pensacola, 32503
Theme: Olympion
Dates: July 8 - 12, 2024 Times: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM (8:30 AM on Monday for registration)
Ages: Completed K4-5th grade
Come join us as we Run the Race for Life! T-shirt, logbook, and snacks included! (850) 438-5449 lori@mcilwainchurch.org www.mcilwain.org
Myrtle Grove United Methodist Church 1030 North 57th Ave Pensacola, 32506
Theme: Camp Firelight - “A Summer Camp Adventure with God” Dates: July 22-26, 2024
Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Rising K-5th (850) 456-7463 (Ext 5) jlbpensmgumc@gmail.com www.atthegrove.church
WinShape Camps Gulf Breeze
1122 Oriole Beach Road Gulf Breeze, 32563
Dates: July 22-26, 2024 Times: MondayThursday 8am - 5pm, Friday 8am - 12pm Ages: K5 - 5th grade
Have the summer of a lifetime close to home! WinShape Camps for Communities brings the ultimate day camp right to your neighborhood, combining fun, faith and friendship into an action-packed week. (850) 932-8197 www.camps.winshape.org/daycamps/gulf-breeze-fl/
FamilyCalendar
Tuesday July 2
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. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. July 2 –Johnny Earthquake & The Moondogs www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Wednesday July 3
Summer Reading Performance
3:00 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join our local musicians of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for a special musical production. This performance will feature Stephanie Riegle, playing the Flute and Dale Riegle playing both the Trumpet and Piano. All ages welcome.
www.floridastateparks.org/events/library-summerreading-program-8
PSO at the Library – Southwest Branch
3:00 PM Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Pensacola Symphony Orchestra - join us for a free community performance by Stephanie Riegle, flute; Dale Riegle, trumpet; and Tina Buran, piano, at the West Florida Public Libraries Southwest Branch, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway. 850-453-7780 www.mywfpl.com
Pensacola Habitat for Humanity Takeover Night at Blue Wahoos Stadium
6:00 PM Blue Wahoos Stadium, Pensacola, FL the game, our staff and volunteers will be filling the concessions stands, selling 50/50 tickets, participating in on-field activities, handing out freebies, cheering on the home team and so much more! This incredible evening of baseball, community and partnership will help raise thousands of dollars for our mission of providing affordable homeownership opportunities in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.
Thursday July 4
4th of July 5K
Fourth of July Summer Celebration ($5 or $35)
6:00 PM Blue Wahoo Stadium, 351 West Cedar Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Blue Wahoos Stadium is the best place to enjoy the Pensacola Symphony and Sertoma Fireworks in Downtown Pensacola this Independence Day! A general admission ticket gives you access to comfortable seating, clean restrooms and concessions options. Upgrade to a VIP ticket in the Hancock Whitney Club for covered seating, an elevated view, a full dinner and a cash bar! www.bluewahoos.com
Symphony Sparks & Stars
7:30 PM Hunter Amphitheater , 301 West Main Pensacola, FL, 32502 Celebrate Independence Day with a free concert at the Hunter Amphitheater behind the Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium! Bring your chairs and blankets, and enjoy this family-friendly performance. www.facebook.com/SymphonySparksAndStars/
Celebrate Independence Day on Pensacola Beach
9:00 PM Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, Pensacola Beach, FL, 32561 The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Fourth of July Fireworks display over the Santa Rosa Sound is set to begin at 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 4. This year, the Beach Chamber is joining forces with the Downtown Pensacola fireworks show, creating a spectacular dual Independence Day celebration in the sky!
https://www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/july-4thfireworks/
4th of July Fireworks - Navarre
9:00 PM Navarre, FL, 32566 Celebrate the 4th of July on Navarre Beach with family and friends! The fireworks display begins at 9 p.m. from the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. www.navarrechamber.com
Friday July 5
StoryTyme with Grandma Jenkins
7:30 AM 69 Via De Luna Pensacola Beach, FL, 32561 A Pensacola Beach Favorite! This is a FUN and HOT American Made event for the entire family. Locals and tourists will love our scenic, flat and yes hot 5k. A fun-filled event with a great after- party at the Tiki Bar is the best way to start your celebration. https://runpensacola.com/event/4th-of-july-5k/
Independence Day at OWA
12:00 PM - 9:00 PM, OWA, 101-N South OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 The fun kicks off on Thursday, July 4th with arts and crafts in Downtown OWA. Create your own Uncle Sam Hat and sign and create your own Declaration of Independence, then show off your art skills with patriotic sidewalk art. Next, try your hand at Watermelon Bowling. then cool off with a water balloon Revolutionary War. Come dressed in your favorite patriotic attire for discounts on food and drinks. At 7 p.m. Dive-In movie featuring Top Gun. www.visitowa.com
will love. Join us on select Fridays for this free public reading program. Don’t forget to stick around for cookies after the story. After all, she is a grandma and grandmas love cookies! www.historicpensacola.org
Sunday July 7
Free Yoga in the Park (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. Stay hydrated!)
9:30 AM Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503www.cityofpensacola.com/1024/ Area-Events-and-Activities
Tuesday July 9
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Details on July 2. July 9 – Still Standing www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Wednesday July 10
Savvy Mom Sale
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale is a seasonal consignment sale. We invite you to volunteer, consign, & shop with the Savvy Mom Sale! Visit our website or checkout our Facebook page for updates, volunteer perks, consignment opportunities and discount days! www.SavvyMomSale.com
Summer Reading Performance
3:00 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Shana Banana coaxes her bored dog puppets Hal and Henson into a curiosity and adventure mindset after reading them a good book. From there, imaginations and excitement take over and everyone is launched into an hour long music- and story-filled quest of amazing discoveries and experiences!
www.floridastateparks.org/events/library-summerreading-program-9
Pensacola Beach Air Show
20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32561 This must-see event features the world-famous Blue Angels performing over Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island.
www.visitpensacola.com/events/official-blues-angelsair-show-pensacola-beach/
Independence Day Weekend at OWA
12:00 PM OWA, 101-N South OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 4th of July Weekend Party-enjoy games, relays, live entertainment and more. www.visitowa.com
Saturday July 6
Flora-Bama’s Freedom Run
8:00 AM Flora-Bama Lounge, Package and Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32507 This patriotic run will feature two courses: The 4 Mile Run/ Walk Course or the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk. https://www.florabama.com/freedom-run
Independence Day Weekend at OWA
12:00 PM OWA, 101-N South OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 4th of July Weekend Party-enjoy games, live entertainment and fireworks at 8:50pm. www.visitowa.com
Thursday July 11
Savvy Mom Sale
10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale is a seasonal consignment sale. We invite you to volunteer, consign, & shop with the Savvy Mom Sale! Visit our website or checkout our Facebook page for updates, volunteer perks, consignment opportunities and discount days! www.SavvyMomSale.com
Pensacola Beach Air Show
2:00 PM 20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32561 This must-see event features the world-famous Blue Angels performing over Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island.
visitpensacola.com/events/official-blues-angels-airshow-pensacola-beach/ www.visitpensacola.com/ events/official-blues-angels-air-show-pensacola-beach/
Friday July 12
Savvy Mom Sale
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale is a seasonal consignment sale. We invite you to volunteer, consign, & shop with the Savvy Mom Sale! Visit our website or checkout our Facebook page for updates, volunteer perks, consignment opportunities and discount days! www.SavvyMomSale.com
FamilyCalendar
Sensory Friendly Movie
10:00 AM The Breeze Cinemas 8, 1233 Crane Cove Boulevard Gulf Breeze , FL, 32563 Emerald Coast
Exceptional Families is super excited to once again partner with The Breeze Cinema 8 to offer our Sensory Friendly Movie!
www.eventbrite.com/e/sensory-friendly-movie-showing-tickets-914972967777
Pensacola Beach Air Show
2:00 PM 20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32561
This must-see event features the world-famous Blue Angels performing over Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island.
www.visitpensacola.com/events/official-blues-angelsair-show-pensacola-beach/
Saturday July 13
Savvy Mom Sale
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale is a seasonal consignment sale. We invite you to volunteer, consign, & shop with the Savvy Mom Sale! Visit our website or checkout our Facebook page for updates, volunteer perks, consignment opportunities and discount days! www.SavvyMomSale.com
Pensacola Beach Air Show
2:00 PM 20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32561
This must-see event features the world-famous Blue Angels performing over Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island.
www.visitpensacola.com/events/official-blues-angelsair-show-pensacola-beach/
Movies in the Park
6:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join us for the Movies in the Park Series! Bring your blankets and chairs out to Hunter Amphitheater in Community Maritime Park for a familyfriendly movie underneath the stars! All Pre-Show Activities Begin at 6 P.M., movie begins at sunset. www.facebook.com/PlayPcolaParks
Sunday July 14
Pensacola Beach Air Show
2:00 PM 20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32561
This must-see event features the world-famous Blue Angels performing over Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island. www.visitpensacola.com
Monday July 15
PSO at the Library – Tryon Branch
3:00 PM Tryon Branch, 1200 Langley Avenue Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for a free community performance by Monika Durbin, harp, at the West Florida Public Libraries Tryon Branch, 1200 Langley Avenue. No tickets are necessary for this free, general admission event. www.mywfpl.com
Tuesday July 16
PSO at Ebonwood Community Center
10:30 AM Ebonwood Community Center, 3511 W Scott St Pensacola, FL, 32505 Join us for a free community performance by Dale Riegle, trumpet; Jonathan Martin, trumpet; Don Snowden, trombone; and Wess Hillman, trombone; at the Ebonwood Community Center.
https://pensacolasymphony.com/product/pso-atebonwood-community-center/
Pensacola Opera Library Concert
3:00 PM Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for an afternoon of beautiful music at your local library! In partnership with West Florida Libraries, local singers will present favorite arias and musical theatre tunes for a free concert for the whole family. www.pensacolaopera.com
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Details on July 2. July 16 – On the Rox www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Wednesday July 17
Summer Reading Performance
3:00 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join our local thespians of the Pensacola Little Theatre for a special program. www.floridastateparks.org/events/library-summerreading-program-9
Crab Cake Cook-Off
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Seville Quarter, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Guests are given the chance to sample world-class crab cakes, indulge on delectable desserts and sip a variety of libations while surveying an extraordinary silent auction and purchase art made by our very own clients. Benefits Arc Gateway. www.thearcgateway.crowdchange.co/37532
Thursday July 18
National Moon Day Celebration ($30)
6:00 PM Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Celebrate the anniversary of the first moon landing with the MESS Hall on July 18. Enjoy wine, cheese, and out of this world activities. Ages 21+
www.pensacolamesshall.org/national-moon-landingcelebration/
Friday July 19
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Saturday July 20
Running of the Bulls Pensacola
9:00 AM Seville Quarter, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for the 13th Annual Running of the Bulls Pensacola to benefit West Florida Roller Derby! Saturday, July 20, 2024 at Seville Quarter 9:00 AM! After party and awards to follow.
www.facebook.com/bullrunpensacola
Back to School Event (Free)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 Jubilee Church and generous community partners will distribute new backpacks filled with school supplies, hygiene products and snacks for students in our area. We are also partnering with local barbers and hair stylists to provide free haircuts for kids.
https://jubileepensacola.com/
Sip & Science: Lost in Space
6:00 PM Emerald Coast Science Center, 31 Memorial Parkway SW Fort Walton, FL, 32548 Sip & Science: Lost in Space takes our usual fun antics appropriate for adults age 21 and up, and turns it into a journey through space. Join us for this fun and interactive planetarium show, including beer, a specialty cocktail, and appetizers. That’s right, you get to eat, drink, and relax while we take you on a tour through the galaxy, chocked full of trivia and audience participation. www.ecscience.org/events
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Monster Jam
Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world today returns to Pensacola for a high-octane weekend at Pensacola Bay Center. Featuring the ultimate mix of high-flying action and four-wheel excitement. 1:00pm, 7:00pm www.pensacolabaycenter.com
Sunday July 21
Monster Jam
1:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world today returns to Pensacola for a high-octane weekend at Pensacola Bay Center. Featuring the ultimate mix of high-flying action and four-wheel excitement. 1:00pm, 7:00pm www.pensacolabaycenter.com
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Shark in the Park 4:05 PM Pensacola Blue Wahoos, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502
Get this special ticket package for our Sunday, July 21 game against the Mississippi Braves and stick around for a one-of-a-kind experience! After the game, bring a swimsuit and take a dip in Pensacola Bay outside Blue Wahoos Stadium for a shark movie screening presented by Pensacola Inflatables. Package includes a game ticket, inflatable tube, and a “Shark in the Park” t-shirt. www.milb.com/pensacola/tickets/specialevents
Tuesday July 23
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Details on July 2. July 23 – Stormfolk www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Wednesday July 25
Summer Reading Performance
3:00 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join Reno’s Reptiles for an animal show-and-tell! Alligators, tortoises, and
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many other critters will be visiting your local library. All ages are welcome.
www.floridastateparks.org/events/library-summerreading-program-9
PenArts Presents The River Bride
7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 A play based on a famous Brazilian folktale about the Amazon River dolphins. It is a lyrical fable carrying the messages of be careful what you wish for, the power of family relationships, and the unpredictability of fate. It is appropriate for all ages.
www.eventbrite.com/e/the-river-bride-tickets-903567573937
Friday July 26
PenArts Presents The River Bride
7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 A play based on a famous Brazilian folktale about the Amazon River dolphins. It is a lyrical fable carrying the messages of be careful what you wish for, the power of family relationships, and the unpredictability of fate. It is appropriate for all ages.
www.eventbrite.com/e/the-river-bride-tickets-903567573937
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 https://www. pensacolalittletheatre.com/ shows-and-events/disneys-descendants
Saturday July 27
Home Sweet Home Block Party
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola, 300 S Tarragona St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join us for the Home Sweet Home Block Party—an event tailored for homeowners and those aspiring to own a home in the near future! We’ve gathered the top industry partners from across the Gulf Coast region to offer you unparalleled access to essential services vital for homeownership. www.visitpensacola.com/events/home-sweet-homeblock-party/
Christmas in July Marketplace
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Woman’s Club of Pensacola, 1551 E Heinberg St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Come shop local at this indoor marketplace featuring artists, crafters and creators at our historic downtown location. www.visitpensacola.com/events/christmas-in-julymarketplace-at-the-womans-club-of-pensacola/
House Concert at Concerts on Canal featuring Thom Shepherd with Special Guest, Harold Boothe
4:00 PM 14075 Canal Drive Pensacola, FL, 32502 House Concert at Concerts on Canal featuring Thom Shepherd with Special Guest, Harold Boothe. $20 suggested donation @ the door - all proceeds go to the artist.
https://info523987.wixsite.com/coc-info
Bands on the Bayou
6:30 PM Bayview Park/Community Center, 2001 E Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Come with your chairs, blanket & family by land or water, and join us on the lawn at the beautiful new Bayview Community Center. July 27 Concert: Cowboy Park www.visitpensacola.com/events/bands-on-the-bayou/
First Dance Ballroom presents The Greatest Showcase
7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 First Dance Ballroom Studio presents the Greatest Showcase featuring local celebrities dancing to their favorite ballroom tunes on July 27 at 7:00pm at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre. Proceeds from this event benefit Children’s Home Society. www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/the-greatestshowcase-24
PenArts Presents The River Bride
7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 A play based on a famous Brazilian folktale about the Amazon River dolphins. It is a lyrical fable carrying the messages of be careful what you wish for, the power of family relationships, and the unpredictability of fate. It is appropriate for all ages.
www.eventbrite.com/e/the-river-bride-tickets-903567573937
An Evening Under the Stars
7:30 PM - 11:00 PM, Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association would like to invite you to spend an evening gazing at the skies! Clear skies permitting, members of the Association will set up telescopes and binoculars to capture views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects.
www.floridastateparks.org/events/library-summerreading-program-9
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Sunday July 28
Christmas in July Marketplace
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Woman’s Club of Pensacola, 1551 E Heinberg St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Come shop local at this indoor marketplace featuring artists, crafters and creators at our historic downtown location. www.visitpensacola.com/events/christmas-in-julymarketplace-at-the-womans-club-of-pensacola/
PenArts Presents The River Bride
2:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 A play based on a famous Brazilian folktale about the Amazon River dolphins. It is a lyrical fable carrying the messages of be careful what you wish for, the power of family relationships, and the unpredictability of fate. It is appropriate for all ages. www.eventbrite.com/e/the-river-bride-tickets-903567573937
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Friday August 2
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Liverpool Legends
8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Pl Pensacola, FL, 32502 Liverpool Legends www.pensacolasaenger.com
Saturday August 3
Bushwacker 5K
7:30 AM Gulf Breeze , FL Bushwacker 5K https://runpensacola.com/event/bushwacker-5k/
NorthWest Florida Big Latch On (Free)
10:00:00 AM - 1:00:00 PM, Greenhut Auditorium Sacred Heart Hospital Pensacola, 5151 North 9th Ave Pensacola, Fl, 32504 Gathering to celebrate the beauty & importance of breastfeeding. 11 AM for a synchronized latch. Gifts! Vendors! 850-512-6437 nwfl.biglatchon@gmail.com
Pensacola Show Me Reptiles – Reptile Show
10:00 AM - 3:30 PM, 6655 W. Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 Pensacola Show Me Reptiles – Reptile Show https://pensacolafair.com/upcoming-events/
Movies in the Park
6:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join us for the Movies in the Park Series! Bring your blankets and chairs out to Hunter Amphitheater in Community Maritime Park for a family-friendly movie underneath the stars! All Pre-Show Activities Begin at 6 P.M., movie begins at sunset. www.facebook.com/PlayPcolaParks
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
The Magic of Motown
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Pl Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Magic of Motown www.pensacolasaenger.com
Sunday August 4
Free Yoga in the Park
9:30 AM Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503www.cityofpensacola.com/1024/ Area-Events-and-Activities
Pensacola Show Me Reptiles – Reptile Show 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM, 6655 W. Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 Pensacola Show Me Reptiles – Reptile Show https://pensacolafair.com/upcoming-events/
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical
2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/disneys-descendants
Tuesday August 6
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
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music. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. August 6 – Blackwater Country www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Thursday August 8
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. www.pensacolabaycenter.com/
Saturday August 10
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
Tuesday August 13
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. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. August 13 – The Astronauts www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Saturday August 24
An Evening Under the Stars
7:30 PM - 11:00 PM, Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association would like to invite you to spend an evening gazing at the skies! Clear skies permitting, members of the Association will set up telescopes and binoculars to capture views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. www.floridastateparks.org/events/library-summerreading-program-9
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
Tuesday August 27
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. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. August 27 – Cristi Dee’s Bad JuJu www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Every Monday - Friday in June and July
Pensacola Mess Hall Summer Experiences
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Engage with special hands-on experiences every weekday afternoon between 1 PM –4 PM. These activities, facilitated by our teen volunteers, will be different each week. They are suitable for ages 8+, though younger kids might enjoy them with adult assistance. Monday: Math, Tuesday: Slime, Wednesday: Building, Thursday: Chemistry, Friday: Robots And Coding 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/summerweekday-workshops/
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 www.mywfpl.com
Every Tuesday
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 www.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 www.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 www.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 www.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 www.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 www.mywfpl.com
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 third Friday
Gallery Night
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Gallery Night is an all-ages community arts and culture event which happens on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. www.gallerynightpensacola.org
Every Saturday
Palafox Market
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more at the event that’s consistently voted “Best Farmers Market” and “Best Free Thing to Do.” www.palafoxmarket.com
First and third Saturday
Hwy 87 Market
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Sand Dollar Plaza, 1900 Hwy 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 Enjoy a wide variety of booths, offering food items, art, decor, and so much more. 850-368-9500 www.facebook.com/sanddollarsaturdays
Every other Saturday
Art Academy for Autism 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
Last Saturday of the month
Trash-Bash
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Sand Crab Pavilion, Navarre, FL, 32566 The Trash-Bash is a citizen-science program for community members of all ages held the last Saturday of every month from 8:00-10:00 am. Sign in at the Sand Crab Pavilion (look for the “Giving Sea Turtles More Tomorrows” banner). There will be a limited supply of gloves, buckets and pickers-you are welcome to bring your own! www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
Influencer Does Not Equal Expert
An influencer does not equal an expert. Remember the good old days when you had a question or concern; you would turn to someone who was an expert in the field. Someone with a degree or at least years of applied world expertise. I was listening to Brene Brown’s podcast this morning, and something she said really stood out. If I am being honest, everything Brene says stands out to me, but this comment made an impact, most likely because I have been having the same feelings. She has created a beautiful podcast series around social media and AI, asking the question, “Are we really ready for this stuff?”
Brene took a year off of social media, and one of the catalysts for her break is that she has been navigating her mother’s diagnosis of dementia. She mentions she was inundated with “experts” on social media telling her various “fixes” and “cures” for her mom’s dementia. One of those cures involved eating more quinoa and blueberries. And when you have a loved one suffering or you are looking for answers, having access to thousands of “experts” at your fingertips feels like movement. It feels empowering. It feels like hope. Until it doesn’t. It begins to breed confusion, exhaustion, and overwhelm. Not to mention the frustration that begins to feel a bit like, “Who lets these people snake charm their way into people’s lives?”
experience or self-driven research. There are so many individuals who are experts in what they do and do not have a degree in the subject matter. But what happens is the sheer overwhelm of fly-by-night influencers with a few months of “expertise” and just enough charisma, relatability, and aesthetically pleasing content to gain popularity. In other words, it looks pretty on the outside, but probably not much experience underneath. This can be dangerous. We must take a look at authenticity versus credibility. Influencers are known for their authenticity and relatability. It is a key factor in their success. However, authenticity does not always translate to credibility. While influencers may have personal anecdotes and experiences to share, their opinions may not be based on thorough research, scientific evidence, or professional experience.
influencers. Instead of blindly accepting their recommendations, it is crucial to verify facts, seek other expert opinions, and consider multiple perspectives before taking an influencer’s advice. We know that experts are individuals who dedicate their time, education, and experience to a particular field. They possess in-depth knowledge, skills, and qualifications that allow them to provide accurate and reliable information. One of the best things we can do as a consumer is to recognize the vast difference between influencers and experts. We can make informed decisions based on reliable sources of information rather than being swayed solely by the popularity or charisma of influencers. Another beautiful thing we can do as consumers AND parents is to discuss with our teens these concepts. They are a huge consumers of social media, and tend to believe most anything that influencers are selling them. Teaching our kids to rely on experts for their information will serve them now and as they grow into adults. In other words, be careful of the snake oil swillers of today’s generation. They are the same as they were hundreds of years ago...just dressed in prettier clothes and no longer have to knock on your door to get into your home.
Anyone can become an “influencer”. Social media platforms have provided a space for individuals to showcase their talents, hobbies, and personal experiences. I do not ever want to discount personal
As someone who has a social work degree and now works as a family and teen coach, it is frightening to me the number of online “coaches” who do not have a degree and do not have years of experience or certifications in marketing their counseling skills to families. I do not have a “degree” in the specialty of social media conversations and safety that I bring to the table within my sessions. However, I do have over a decade of experience working with families around these issues in private settings. And I did not include this specialty until I had years of work behind me.
This brings me to the importance of critical thinking. It is essential for consumers of social media to exercise critical thinking when evaluating information shared by
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.
She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.
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