Greater Pensacola Parents "Fall Festival Issue" (October 2023)

FromThePublisher

After the absolute scorcher of a summer we had, I cannot wait for fall weather. I know I am not alone in this either. Just this morning I walked outside and there was a tiny hint of possible coolness. I was absolutely giddy! Even my dogs seemed to have a little extra pep in their step. There is so much I love about this season, like the milder weather, long sleeved t-shirts, boots, buying pumpkins in all different shapes, colors and sizes and how the sun starts to cast a more golden hue in the early mornings and late afternoons.

Autumn also brings with it a lot of activity. On top of the already exciting fall sports we have fall festivals, fairs, pumpkin patches, trunk-or-treats and so many other events for families to enjoy together. So much so that we have dedicated an entire section of this month’s issue to sharing these events with you! The Fall Festival Guide is a perfect place to start planning your family outings. Don’t stop there though. Make sure you also flip over to the Family Calendar for even more local events.

Maybe you are like me and love to host events. If throwing an awesome Halloween party is on your docket then you will definitely want to check out Cherie Gough’s feature in this issue, FaBOOlous Fun for Everyone: Halloween Gatherings that Impress. The great news about her ideas is not only will they work for small or large gatherings, but for most ages too! If your group loves to dress up in costumes, even better!

One of the tough parts of Halloween is what to do with all those treats! It is certainly reasonable (and probably smart) to set a limit on the allowed candy consumption. Make sure to express it as a “health” issue, not a “weight” issue. Kids are smart and very intuitive so if you are making it a weight conversation, they will pick up on it. However, having a healthy diet is more than appearance. It is about the way you feel, perform in school, etc. As Lita Chatham discusses in her feature Cultivating a Positive Body Image for Healthy, Confident Kids, we need to refocus the conversation that media is having with our kids when it comes to body image.

Once you decide an appropriate amount of candy (including the amount us parents sneak out after they go to sleep) you will probably still have candy left over. Did you know there are places you can donate your unwrapped candy? A quick Google search will lead you in the right direction. Some Ronald McDonald houses will accept donations, there is a Halloween Candy Buy Back program some dentists participate in, also a program called Treats for Troops, and you can check with local food pantries and retirement/nursing homes. This makes trick-or-treating even more special when you can do something fun with the goodies after!

I hope you find fun and exciting things in this month’s issue to get you all pumpkinspiced up and ready for a Happy Fall Y’all!

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Lita Chatham

Cherie Gough

Dave Ramsey

Works of Wonder Therapy, LLC

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

President Jason Watson

Advertising Sales

Lynn Knighton ads@greaterpensacolaparents.com (850) 426-6222

Ad Design

Tim Welch

lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

How to Parent Beyond Focusing on Behaviors

“When a flower doesn’t bloom you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower.”

An excellent tool to help parents with “overly emotional” children is the book, Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children’s Behavioral Challenges by Mona Delahooke, PhD. This article summarizes some of her main points and will hopefully help parents respond to children’s “bad behavior” in a more emotionally healthy manner.

The first thing parents must understand is that behaviors can be divided into two main categories: Top-Down and BottomUp Behaviors. Top-Down Behaviors require intentionality, thinking, and continuous effort. Bottom-Up Behaviors are reflexive, selfprotective, automatic responses that do not involve conscious thought. Bottom-Up be

(response to feeling unsafe) is a Top-Down Behavior (intentional “bad” behavior). Delahooke uses three colors to help parents understand if a behavior is Bottom-Up or Top-Down: Green, Red, and Blue. Parents can learn to use body language to assess the pathway the child was in when the behavior occurred.

In the green (ventral vagal) pathway, we can successfully communicate, play, and learn. In the green pathway people feel safe, connected, calm, and social. People in the green pathway display a relaxed but interested body posture, look directly at people, smile frequently, and respond appropriately to changes in the environment.

In the red (sympathetic) pathway of the automatic nervous system (fight or flight), an individual feels threatened. People in the red pathway typically display a loud tone of voice, eyes that quickly look around the room, tense muscles, aggression, and clenched teeth. They are often attempting to take over a physi cal space by moving objects and people.

In the blue (dorsal vagal) pathway, the person feels extreme danger. People in the blue pathway display deceleration of heart and breathing rate, slow movements, eyes that look at things more than people, little curiosity, and a decrease in expressive language. In this pathway, people are attempting to conserve energy to survive.

The most important thing to learn and remember from this article is that all people, especially children, are logical, intentional, and teachable ONLY in the Green Pathway. Parents, please do not attempt to teach your child something when YOU or YOUR CHILD are not in the green pathway. When we are not in the green pathway, our likelihood of a successful and productive parenting interaction diminishes drastically.

When we see our children behave in a manner that we dislike, we must become curious instead of judgmental. Start by asking:

1. What body language is the child displaying?

2. Is this a Top-Down or Bottom-Up Behavior?

3. If this is a Bottom-Up Behavior, how can I help my child feel safe? What can I do to help them feel safe in this situation in the future? What can I do to prevent this response in the future?

4. If this is a Top-Down Behavior, how can I help my child practice a more appropriate response? How can I help my child learn from this experience?

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology

Dan Heijer

5th Annual Beach-O-Ween

Get ready for a spooky good time at the 5th annual Beach-O-Ween. This year, the event will occur at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk on Friday, October 20th, from 4-8 p.m. There will be many fun activities for kids of all ages, including a Halloween bounce house, costume contest, games, face painting, and hotdogs. Best of all, all games and activities are entirely free, and there will be plenty of candy to go around.

So grab your costumes and head down to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk for a night of frightfully good fun you won’t want to miss. See you there. Please visit https://www.visitpensacola.com/beach-o-ween/ for more information.

American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Join us Saturday, October 28th, 2023, at Seville Square to make strides against breast cancer. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a 5k noncompetitive fundraising walk with no registration fee or minimum donation required. All are welcome. Making Strides has always been more than just a walk, it’s a movement. We are making it easier for anyone, anywhere to make an impact. We know the future can be free from breast cancer. We’re asking you to join the movement and sign up to save lives. Please visit www.makingstrideswalk.org/pensacolaFL for more information.

Hauntcert: Family-Friendly Halloween Concert

Pensacola Children’s Chorus presents Hauntcert at the Saenger Theatre on October 28, 2023 at 3:30pm and 6:30pm. Join us for a family-friendly Halloween concert that’s bound to enchant and delight. Prepare to be mesmerized by a bewitching blend of Halloween-themed music, spellbinding stage lighting, and a live band. Watch as our energetic Ensemble and Young Singers choirs take the stage with captivating choreography, group numbers, and solo performances. Please visit https://www.pensacolasings.org/ for more information.

BrunchFest

The 3rd Annual BrunchFest benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is on October 8th, 2023 from 11:00 am –2:00 pm. Join us at Seville Quarter for a morning filled with mouthwatering brunch bites and a whole lot of fun. Don’t miss out on this chance to brunch for a good cause and make a difference in the lives of over 5,000 local club kids. Please visit https://emeraldcoastbgc.org/event/brunchfest-pensacola-fl/ for more information.

Spooktacular - A Low Sensory Halloween Party

The Pensacola Museum of Art welcomes all ages to attend this fun event designed for individuals on the Autism Spectrum on Saturday, October 21st from 5pm-7pm. Our seventh annual low-sensory Halloween event will feature activities inspired by the spookiest of ghosts, goblins, monsters, mummies, witches, werewolves, and more! Enjoy an evening of art, games, face painting, and light refreshments. Activity and game stations will have prizes and candy. Low sensory, quiet spaces will be available to visitors as needed. Wear your Halloween costume to this event and you’ll receive a free custom printed Spooktacular tote bag at the door! $12 tickets for participating kids and visitors on the spectrum, accompanying adults or caretakers are free. Tickets are available for sale online at: pensacolamuseum.org.

Take a Kid Fishing

Stop Wishing Take a Kid Fishing event will be held on October 7, 2023 at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. Sign up for an 8:30am or 9:30am timeslot on https:// takeakidfishingnavarre.com/. The first 200 children registered will receive a fishing pole and bag.

Barktoberfest

Dust off those costumes and get ready to have a howlin’ good time at this year’s Barktoberfest! On Sunday, October 29 from 10am-4pm in Seville Square, join us and thousands of other dog lovers at Pensacola’s biggest pet and family friendly event! We’ll have contests, games, food trucks, vendors, raffles, and so much more! This event benefits Pensacola Humane Society. Visit us at https://pensacolahumane.org/ for more information.

Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

NAS Pensacola is pleased to announce the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 3-4, with the theme “Celebrating Women In Aviation.”

This event provides the opportunity for NAS Pensacola to showcase what we work with daily on the installation and to enjoy a world-class air show, all while visiting the “Cradle of Naval Aviation” and the home of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels!

The NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of Pensacola’s largest events, attracting 150,000180,000 spectators during this two-day event. There is an incredible lineup of aerobatic performers and our very own Blue Angels. This event is FREE and open to the public. Gates open at 8:00 AM, and the show begins at 9:30 AM. Please visit https://www.naspensacolaairshow.com/ for more information.

Annual Fenner Ride Cycling Event for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, along with the West Florida Wheelmen Bicycle Club, present the annual Fenner Ride on October 28. This cycling event gives riders a unique chance to experience Northwest Florida’s native wildlife, natural environments, and beautiful scenery along the Blackwater Heritage Trail. The ride will start at the Clyde L. Gracey Community Center, located at 5629 Byrom St. Milton, Fla. Participants of all skill levels can choose the course that best fits their skill level: 18, 42, 62, or 100 miles.

The 2023 Fenner Ride will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and the money raised will be used to fund the agency’s seven programs and support current and new matches. Registration is now open and is $45-$50 until October 13. After October 13, the registration fee increases to $55-$60. Please visit https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Milton/FennerRide for information.

63rd Annual Pensacola Greek Festival

The 63rd annual Greek Festival will be held on November 3-5, 2023 at 1720 W Garden St., Pensacola. Sample traditional Greek cuisine, listen to Greek music, and capture the customs and culture of Greece. Enjoy a time-honored cultural celebration on the sun-kissed Florida coast. Please visit https://www.facebook.com/ PensacolaGreekFestival/ .

2023 Girls in Aviation Gulf Coast

The National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM), in partnership with Women in Aviation International, will host a free 2023 Girls in Aviation Gulf Coast event on Saturday, October 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the museum. Girls in Aviation Day is designed to introduce and educate girls

8 to 18 years of age on the many career choices and lifestyle possibilities offered by the aviation and aerospace industry.

The 2023 event will celebrate 50 years of women in naval aviation and 30 years of women in combat aviation. There will exhibitors, flight simulators, hands-on activities, special guest speakers and a special message from Blue Angel #3 left wing pilot, U.S. Navy Lt. Amanda Lee, along with other female Blue Angel team members. 2023’s special guest speakers are retired U.S. Navy fleet master chief April Beldo, who served as the first woman and first African-American Command Master Chief on an air craft carrier and the first female Command Master Chief for recruit training; and Tammie Jo Shults, a retired commercial airline captain, author and former naval aviator who was one of the first female fighter pilots to serve in the Navy. The event is free. Registration is now open to girls ages 8 to 18 and ends at midnight on October 25, 2023. The first 200 girls to register and attend can pick up a free Women in Aviation International bag o’ swag at the event. Contact Dianna Hayden at dhayden@ navalaviationmuseum.org.

Education Focused on the Success of Every Student

Together, we’re raising the bar and are united behind building a bright future for our children and our community.

84.3%

I am proud to say I have a child at this school. 4.41 of ECPS Schools Ranked 4+

Career And Professional Education (CAPE) Academy Programs

76% Middle School Student Enrollment

Escambia High School NASA Human Rover Exploration Challenge 2023 Winner First place overall High School Division

Source: Studer Education (2022) Parent Experience Survey

69% High School Student Enrollment

34,732 Total Certifications Earned in the Past 5 years

Meals of Hope Fundraiser for local needy familie s provided by Tate High School Agriscience students

60,000+ meals

Autauga County Schools

The Importance of Montessori Line Time at Montessori School Pensacola

Students of every age at Montessori School of Pensacola, from Toddlers through 8th grade, “come to the line” at different times during the school day. This is referred to as “line time”. This time is a powerful way for the students in a classroom build classroom community. It gives a definite “beginning and ending” to the day. It creates a sense of family and increases the bond between students and teachers. Lessons given at the line include all areas of curriculum in the Montessori classroom. Times that students are “at line” are also great ways to talk about classroom maintenance & discipline.

Classes “come to line” for group lessons, music, stories, and special guest presentations. Another activity that happens at the line is “practicing silence” where students practice a calm timed period of sitting quietly. Line time is perfect for any announcements that need to be made about the day (special instructions or activities, for instance). For any age group, it’s nice to review the class ground rules at line time, especially at the beginning of the year. Attendance can also be taken at this time.

Additionally, the acitivty of “walking on the line” or “walking the line” is a core way that students in a Montessori classroom develop their coordination and balance. Students walk very slowly, making sure to walk heel to toe, and focusing on keeping their feet on the line as they walk around the line. In this photo, you see a Primary class of children aged 3-6 years old at the MSP 12th Avenue campus, which is part of the old Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola’s East Hill neighborhood.

East Hill Christian Invites You to Christian College Fair

Are you and your student approaching the next steps in their education? East Hill Christian School is excited to host the “Find Your Christian College Fair” on Thursday, October 5th, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. This event is the only one like this in the Panhandle area and is free and open to the public. With the hopes of connecting students with christian colleges and universities across the country, this event will have representatives from all over. Scan the QR code to see a list of all current colleges registered. We hope to see you there!

Alethia Christian Enjoys Canoe Trip

Aletheia Christian Academy’s 9th-12th graders enjoyed their annual all-day canoe trip down Blackwater River to kick off the start of school in August. This outing is a favorite pastime that allows students to fellowship outside of the classroom and enjoy nature. They finished the day with a devotion and lunch before heading back to school.

Creative Learning Academy Sixth Graders Explore Dauphin Island

School days in Pensacola have given way to a new level of excitement and adventure thanks to Alabama’s Dauphin Island. Creative Learning Academy (CLA) 6th-grade students recently embarked on an outstanding and immersive educational journey at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL). Over three action-packed days, these young scholars dove deep into marine science and exploration, leaving them with unforgettable memories and newfound knowledge.

Their adventure began with a productive Plankton Lab, where students were divided into groups to create and race plankton. They collected plankton from the outdoors and meticulously analyzed their finds using classroom microscopes. A thrilling Research Vessel Trip followed, allowing students to explore the salt marsh habitat and experience the excitement of pulling a seine net in the estuary. The importance of secure footwear was emphasized for this muddy expedition. To cap it off, the students engaged in some friendly competition with their self-built ROVs at the DISL pool during the “ROVing the Gulf’’ activity, ensuring they had water, sunscreen, hats, and glasses on hand. The historical aspect of Dauphin Island came alive as students delved into the past during the “History of Dauphin Island Field Class.” They honed their marine invertebrate knowledge through squid dissection, a hands-on experience that fostered teamwork and scientific exploration. Two students per squid dissected these preserved specimens, offering a unique perspective into marine life.

Throughout the three days, CLA students were fully engaged and met with challenging experiences that seemed to broaden their horizons. This unforgettable journey to DISL not only expanded CLA’s Sixth Grade scientific understanding but also created lasting memories of exploration and discovery.

Local Student Achieves Top ACT Score

Clayton Nolen, son of Steve and Carla Nolen and a senior at Pensacola High School, earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36.

About onequarter of 1% of students who take the ACT earn a top score. In the U.S. high school graduating class of 2022, only 3,376 out of 1.34 million students who took the ACT earned a top composite score of 36. The ACT is a curriculum-based achievement exam that measures what students have learned in school. Students who earn a 36 composite score have likely mastered all of the skills and knowledge they will need to succeed in first-year college courses in the core subject areas.

ACT scores are accepted by major four-year colleges and universities across the U.S.

Montessori School Pensacola Exhibits Teamwork at Camp Beckwith

Montessori School of Pensacola Middle School students (7th and 8th graders) spend the first week of each school year at Camp Beckwith in Fairhope, Alabama. This is a great way for the students to build confidence and gain each other’s trust at the start of the year. The challenge course at Camp Beckwith is described as “fun with a purpose”. It challenges groups to work together to accomplish a task. The challenge course involves low and high ropes activities. Beckwith says this about their courses:

“Our renovated ropes course consists of activities that promote and enhance positive interaction between members of your group, challenging folks of all ages. Consisting of both high and low elements, the ropes course is perfect for corporate groups, sports teams, school organizations, and leadership retreats. Low elements take place on the ground or only a few feet above the ground, and are designed to explore group interaction, problem-solving, and leadership. High elements are constructed in trees or made of utility poles and require a belay for safety, and are designed to explore the fundamentals of trust, craftsmanship, and coaching.”

Autauga County Schools

Florida Power & Light Donates $20,000

The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation (NAMF) is delighted to announce a recent contribution of $20,000 from Florida Power and Light Company (FPL) towards the museum’s new Home-

school Academy. The check presentation ceremony took place on the base this morning. Homeschool Academy: The Museum Classroom was initiated by NAMF in January 2023, with a focus on families homeschooling children aged 5 to 18. FPL’s generous grant will enable NAMF to extend the program’s reach throughout the entire school year, benefiting the homeschooling community. “We’re profoundly thankful for this contribution. FPL’s generosity empowers us to provide hands-on STEM activities and unique museum tours to our growing local homeschool community year-round,” said

Dianna Hayden, Director of Education for NAMF.

Bailey Middle School Library Recognized for Excellence

Jim C. Bailey Middle School library has recently been awarded Power Library status and is the only school in Escambia County to receive this award thus far. “My primary reason for working through the ExC3EL Rubric was to show that our libraries do much more than monitoring and checking out appropriate books!” said Bailey Media Specialist Dr. Roberta Wetzel. “Our Media Centers are a haven for our students and a safe place to read, create, learn and problem solve.”

Florida Power-Library Schools Award (FPLS) provides statewide recognition to schools that nurture focused, systemic change through the involvement of the entire school staff in developing and implementing a plan that integrates the library media program with teacher collaboration and student achievement. The competitive application process is designed to identify school library media programs throughout the state that meet the Outstanding criteria outlined in the ExC3EL Evaluation Rubric.

St. Paul Catholic Student Council

After school-wide campaigns and elections, St. Paul Catholic Schools new Student Council executive board and rep resentatives were formally installed in their positions. Congrats to this year’s Student Council!

Hands-On Science at Aletheia Christian Academy

Students have already participated in several labs this year. In Mrs. Laxton’s 7th grade Life Science class, students extracted the DNA of strawberries and had a memorable experience. The purpose of the lab was to demonstrate that the DNA of an organism could be isolated from its cells. Students learned why it is important for scientists to extract DNA from organisms and how that applies to various fields such as forensic science.

St. Paul Catholic School Blessed Buddies

St. Paul students enjoyed their first Blessed Buddies activity of the year! Lower classes are paired with higher classes and older students guide their younger buddies through activities throughout the year. Everyone loves spending time with their buddies!

Pensacola High Students Receive National Recognition

Several Pensacola High School students have been awarded National Recognition from the College Board. These students earned this academic honor because of their GPA of 3.5 or higher and outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT®, PSAT™ 10, and/or AP® Exams. They can now list this honor on applications to stand out to colleges. Awardees (as of August 17) at Pensacola High School are listed below:

Alysa Hayden: NHRA

Alyssa Williams: NAARA

Jaden Ledesma: NHRA

Joshua Kafie: NHRA

Nicole Kerbes: NHRA

Skylar Noel: NAARA

Sydney Jernigan: NIA

Award Key: National African American Recognition Award (NAARA)

National Hispanic Recognition Award (NHRA)

National Rural and Small Town Award (NRSTA)

National Indigenous Award (NIA)

Congratulations, Tigers!

Redeemer Lutheran School Honors Patriot Day

For Redeemer’s annual Patriot Day observance, each student was encouraged to invite a service member or first responder to a special chapel service that included our students performing a number of patriotic songs. A reception followed so that each student could personally celebrate their special guest. Even 22 years later, Redeemer has not forgotten the bravery and sacrifice displayed on 9/11 and

Autauga County Schools

West Florida Participates in Saints Preseason Game On-Field Experience

The New Orleans Saints were excited to have the West Florida High School cheerleaders, coaches, and families join them Sunday, August 13th for the Saints

Pleasant Grove Adventures at Environmental Center

It was a magnificent Monday at the Roy Hyatt Environmental Center with Pleasant Grove Elementary School 5th grade students and teachers. These young adventurers participated in the “Infinitely Big! Infinitely Small!” Program. They entered the inflatable planetarium blasting off into space studying the infinitely big solar system.

These scientists also used microscopes to observe infinitely small microscopic organisms while studying the flow of energy in an ecosystem. They ended their day with a picnic lunch and the opportunity to meet one of our snake ambassadors, Todd, the Florida Kingsnake.

Redeemer Lutheran’s First Week of School

Redeemer Lutheran celebrated the first week of school with a surprise visit from Kona Ice. Students were ecstatic when the Kona Ice truck pulled in and treated everyone to a refreshing treat sponsored by the school. It’s going to be a super cool year at Redeemer!

Montessori School Pensacola Great Lessons

Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy’s first female physician, created the Montessori method of education which has been used around the world for over 100 years. Part of her methodology is that when children are allowed to learn at their own pace based on their own interests, they take control of their own education.

“We must help the child to act for himself, will for himself, think for himself; this is the art of those who aspire to serve the spirit,” Dr. Montessori said. Based on her educational philosophy, she created a curriculum that focused on creating a joy in learning. There are the Five Great Lessons—which illustrate how everything interacts with everything else.

As Dr. Montessori said, “The child’s development follows a path of successive stages of independence, and our knowledge of this must guide us in our behavior towards him. We have to help the child to act, will and think for himself. This is the art of serving the spirit, an art which can be practiced to perfection only when working among children.”

At Montessori School of Pensacola, Upper Elementary students have these creative and captivating lessons presented at the start the school year. The First Great Lesson is “Coming of the Universe and Earth”. After the first lesson lays the groundwork of the universe, the other lessons focus on the Earth and how it supports life, how plants and animals develop, and how humans develop and evolve. From the first day of class in elementary school, Montessori teachers show how the universe, life, animals, communication and numbers came into being to help contribute to life on earth. Students love the dramatic presentation of these lessons and the opportunities to be involved.

Sherwood Elementary Unites Home and School Through ‘One School One Book’

Five hundred Sherwood Elementary School students brought home a copy of Pet War by Allan Woodrow, and began reading it with their families on Tuesday, September 12th. During the month of September, students read the book together at home while celebrating and exploring the novel at school. It’s all part of a unique, national family literacy program called One School, One Book from non-profit Read to Them designed to strengthen the educational connection between home and school. Sherwood joins the schools and districts across North America who have undertaken this family literacy strategy. Families will read and discuss Pet War at home. In school, students experience dynamic assemblies, answer trivia questions, and engage in creative extension activities. One School One Book is the flagship program of Read to Them, a national nonprofit based in Richmond, Virginia. The organization’s mission is to create a culture of literacy in every community. “We are super excited to participate in One Book, One School again this school year. As we are reading Pet Wars, our students will participate in a very special community service project,” remarked Sherwood Elementary Principal Tammy Douglas. “I am very proud to say our ‘Archers for Animals’ will collect toys, treats, and towels for our local animal shelter. We are ready to read and serve at Sherwood!”

Autauga County Schools

Aletheia Christian Academy Kicks Off Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy

In September, Aletheia Christian Academy kicked off the Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy, a national high school leadership program sponsored by Chickfil-A Operators, focused on making an impact through action. Sixteen ACA students were chosen to be a part of this amazing program. It is a yearlong curriculum engaging students with a monthly “Leader Lab” focusing on important leadership skills. The cornerstone of Chick-fil-A Leader Academy is the year-end Impact Project, which is student planned and led. Students in the program rally students in their school to organize and execute projects that make a difference in communities across America. Their first community service project will be the 1 Million Book Giveaway in which students will deliver 160 books to children in our community.

Molino Park Students Remember 911

Mrs. Bodiford’s and Mrs. Gilmore’s 4th grade classes from Molino Park Elementary School participated in remembering the tragic events of 9-11-01 yesterday. Teachers and students gathered at the flagpole at 8:46 a.m., the time of the attack. Students made signs and gave speeches to honor the heroes and victims of 911.

As parents who want to raise healthy kids, we often put a lot of thought into providing adequate nutrition for growing minds and bodies. We research and prepare healthy meals and snacks. We worry about how much water they’ve had today or how much sugar is in their favorite cereal bar.

What if I told you that a positive body image is one of the greatest tools you can help your child cultivate for a healthy and happy life?

Many of us have spent years or decades at war with our own bodies. Even though research shows dieting does not lead to longterm weight loss, the diet industry still brings in billions of dollars yearly, according to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). But how are they selling diets, plans, and magic potions that they, and we, know don’t actually work?

The marketing plan is pretty simple when you think about it. First, the diet industry bombards us with messages that we aren’t good enough as we are. Then, they promise the perfect solution – which will only cost $49.95! And finally, when the product or diet fails (and most likely it will), we are blamed for our “lack of willpower” and told to buy more or different products or plans.

I know it’s not what you want to hear, but we’ve known that dieting doesn’t work for a long time. Past attempts at weight loss are a significant predictor of obesity. Dieting is a losing battle, and I don’t mean pounds or inches. Further, obsessing over the scale, restricting, and hating our bodies is no way to live, and it’s not the legacy we want to pass on to our children.

Unfortunately, pressuring ourselves to get or stay thin also influences how we view our kids and their bodies. We’re told by the media, and often our healthcare providers, that obesity is detrimental to health. As a result, we may find ourselves restricting what or how much our children eat to try and control their weight. For our children, this creates an atmosphere of stress around food and shame about their bodies, which can lead to lifelong

struggles with their weight and body image. This increases their risk of developing an eating disorder, which are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that can affect every system in the body, according to NEDA.

So, how can we raise healthy, confident kids who grow into the right body for them? Luckily, there are things we can do to intentionally cultivate body positivity and respect among our children and ourselves, too!

Take stress off the menu at meal and snack times

Ellyn Satter, registered dietitian, family therapist, and internationally recognized expert on feeding kids, created the Satter Division of Responsibility (sDOR) to help children become competent eaters. sDOR outlines clear roles for both parents and children at mealtimes. Parents are responsible for what is served, along with when and where the meal or snack will take place. Children are responsible for what and how much they choose to eat out of what is offered. Practicing the sDOR has many benefits, including reducing power struggles at mealtimes, which helps improve the relationship between kids and parents.

We are more open to trying new things when they aren’t being forced on us, and kids are no exception. It may seem counterintuitive at first, but removing stress from mealtimes allows kids to practice listening to their internal cues about what and how much to eat – a skill many of us struggle to tap into because of diet culture.

Let go of trying to control the size or shape of your child’s body

Trust that your child will grow into the body that is right for them – even if it isn’t your envisioned body. Body shape and size

are primarily genetic, so chances are high that their body will be similar to yours. Therefore, negative comments we make about our bodies can feel personal to our kids as they notice these similarities. Even well-intended body commentary can be harmful; compliments may feel like comparison, while unsolicited advice feels like judgment. Instead, focus on praising and encouraging the things kids can control, like working hard to learn a new skill or befriending a new kid at school. Most importantly, never put your child on a diet. According to NEDA, 62% of teen girls and 29% of teen boys are trying to lose weight, and 14 and 15-yearolds who reported participating in even moderate dieting were five times more likely than their non-dieting peers to develop an eating disorder.

Talk to your child about unrealistic body standards

According to NEDA, discussing unrealistic body standards and the pressures to conform can help women and girls feel more positive about their bodies. Talk to your children about how body weight and size do not define who they are as people. Be sure they know you love them unconditionally and that they can come to you with any worries about food or their bodies. NEDA recommends keeping a list of the top 10 things we like about ourselves to help cultivate body positivity, which parents can help kids create and update as they grow.

Prioritize a healthy relationship with your own body

If we want to teach our kids to feel good about their bodies, an important step is learning to feel good (or at least neutral) about our own. This means extending grace and compassion to

ourselves for perceived imperfections. We deserve to live a life that fulfills us instead of wasting time agonizing over our pants size. If we want to give our kids a fighting chance at accepting their bodies, we must show them that we are willing to accept our own.

Put an end to negative self-talk

Identify times when you are participating in negative self-talk, either in your head or out loud, and make a conscious effort to stop. Constantly viewing ourselves through a lens of self-criticism fuels the cycle of shame that keeps us running back to dieting. Can you imagine what would happen to the diet industry’s sales if we all woke up one morning and decided to like ourselves?

Model how to care for the body you have

It’s essential to prioritize our health, but we can take care of our bodies and set goals for ourselves in ways that don’t involve the scale. Let’s eat fruits and vegetables that we like because we know they provide vitamins and minerals that are good for us. Let’s show our kids that it’s possible to move your body in ways you enjoy as a way to care for your body rather than as punishment for enjoying food.

Improving our relationship with our own body won’t happen overnight, especially if we’ve spent a good portion of our lives trying to change our bodies to conform to societal expectations. But can you picture its profound effect on the next generation if we decided that diet culture ended with us?

Lita Chatham is a mom and registered dietitian and nutritionist with 10 years of experience. She believes that eliminating blame, shame, and guilt in relation to body size and weight is the first step in ensuring future generations develop healthy relationships with food and their bodies.

SPECIAL GUESTS! MUSIC! VENDORS! ARTISTS! FOOD! COSTUME CONTEST!

OCTOBER 7-8

FOR KIDS! FOR ADULTS! FOR EVERYONE! ALL THIS AND MORE!

DOZENS MORE GUESTS TO BE ANNOUNCED! GO TO OUR WEBSITE FOR TICKETS AND INFO @pensacolapensacon faceb k.com/pensacon @realpensacon scan the qr code for the latest guest a ouncements!

SCOTT INNES VOICE OF SCOOBY-DOO WITH THE MYSTERY MACHINE

ALEX HYDE-WHITE FANTASTIC FOUR, INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE

THOM ZAHLER MY LITTLE PONY COMIC WRITER AND ARTIST

Love Them Enough to Teach Them Well

Q. My husband and I are having arguments about money where our children are concerned. They are both 16, and I think they should have part-time jobs and be learning the value of work. He feels they’re only young once and wants them to enjoy being teenagers. He also gives them money anytime they ask. I want our kids to have fun, too, but this is beginning to cause tension in our relationship. I’d love your advice.

A. I understand your concern. I’m sure your husband has a good heart, but by doing this he’s acting like a friend instead of a parent. In the process, he’s allowing them to be nothing but takers and consumers. He’s setting them both up for lifetimes of helplessness and ridiculous expectations without realizing it.

But yes, kids should absolutely learn to work, make money and manage it wisely from an early age. My wife and I gave nice gifts to our kids from time to time, but they also worked and made money for themselves. And the nicer gifts we gave them were for special occasions. Even then we didn’t go crazy with things.

Still, the biggest problem you and your husband are experiencing is a communication breakdown. Your husband should stop being so impulsive, and grow a backbone where the kids are concerned. You’ve recognized this—and you’re right about it—so it’s up to you to take the first step in finding a solution.

Try sitting down with him, just the two of you, and sincerely explaining your feelings. Let him know you love him and how generous he is. But let him know, too, you’re worried this is having a negative impact on your children and why. Talk it out, openly and honestly, and try to agree on some changes together. There’s a middle ground here, but it’s going to take some time and effort from both of you to reach it.

Most of all, it means you two will have to communicate with each other like mature, caring adults, and pull together for the sake of your kids. It might be difficult at first, but it’ll be worth it in the long run. For you and them.

Great question!

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

Do your kids race around the house in costumes all year long? There are so many fun ways to celebrate the whimsy of Halloween.

Create new traditions with one of these faBOOlous events that anyone can pull together!

Cherie Gough

Trunk-or-Treat

A trunk-or-treat transforms an empty parking lot into a Halloween celebration filled with decorated vehicles and a fun opportunity to trick-or-treat at a safe venue (often a school or church community).

Here’s how to do it: Reserve a parking lot in advance. Cconsider asking a local church or school. Secure participants who are willing to decorate car trunks or truck beds in a festive theme (popular kids’ films, movies or games). Ask participants to bring candy to distribute to kids.

• Some participants may add a free carnival game to their trunk (or parking space) for kids to enjoy.

• Advertise. Social media is a great way to get the word out!

Extra Credit: Lots of decorated trunks, free food, live music, photo booth and inflatables, carnival games, haunted library, cakewalk and food trucks.

Gross Science Play Date

Homemade slime is all the rage. If you’ve had kids over to play, chances are you’ve tried your hand at making the ooey-gooey stuff. A “weird science” play date where kids make gross concoctions is sure to impress. Our family used a gross science kit to make “veins”, “snot” and “earwax.” Most items needed are included in a kit, so there’s no need to drive all over town. It was easy and the kids were awed and delightfully disgusted. Gross science kits can be found at local toy stores, big box stores or online. End this play date with “dirt” pudding cups topped with crushed chocolate cookies and gummy worms.

Pumpkin Carving Party

After friends invited us to a pumpkin carving party, my kids were hooked on trying new wild and wacky jack-o-lantern designs each year. Provide an alternative to carving for young children. Paint, stickers and glitter help little ones get into the spirit and allow parents to relax and enjoy the party.

Gather Tools: Ask each family to bring their own pumpkins. Have a few pumpkin carving kits on hand for guests to use. They include tools and patterns to help get everyone started. Download additional pat-

terns online for extra inspiration. Dry erase markers allow for mistakes as guests trace or freehand jack-o-lantern faces. Sharpie markers also work (but don’t wipe off). Cover tables with butcher paper or plastic. Provide garbage cans and extra trash bags. If you plan to roast pumpkin seeds, place large bowls on each table where guests can put seeds.

Carve & Display: Tricks of the Trade

Be sure to have adults help and supervise kids with all sharp tools. Cut around the stem at a slight angle to make a “hat” for the jack-o-lantern that won’t fall in. Add an extra hole at the top to act as a “chimney” for the candle inside or use a battery-powered candle for safety. To preserve a jacko-lantern, rub the inside and cut edges with petroleum jelly. Wrap in a plastic bag and store in the fridge until ready to use.

Halloween Movie Night

Nothing sets the tone of Halloween like a spooky (or not-so-spooky) movie night!

Choose a Movie: Younger kids love It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown, Monsters Inc., old Scooby Doo episodes and Hotel Transylvania. For teens and tweens consider The Nightmare Before Christmas, ET, or The Addams Family.

Provide Atmosphere: Gather cozy pillows and blankets for kids to sprawl out. Add twinkle lights.

Make Yummy Treats:

• Take a hint from Laurie and Nancy from the blog Two Sisters Crafting. Their irresistible candy corn popcorn contains marshmallow topping, M&Ms and candy corn. Get the how-to instructions at www. twosisterscrafting.com/fall-candy-cornpopcorn.

• Let the kids concoct their own combinations with a festive popcorn bar. Kids decorate cups with Halloween stickers, and fill with popcorn and candy toppings.

• Pipe icing onto madeleine cookies to create cute mummies.

Press play and relax with friends. This no-fuss gathering is a tradition to relish.

Now through November 4

Holland Farm Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze

2055 Homer Holland Road Milton, FL 32570

Corn maze, pedal tractor carts, petting zoo, zip lines, rat racers, gem mining and more. Visit our website for pricing, times and details. (850) 675-6876 www.hollandfarmsonline.com

Now through November 5

Sweet Season Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze

2260 Horn Road Milton, FL 32570

Corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, cow trains, games and more. Saturday-9:00am-5:00pm, Sunday-11:00am-5:00pm, Friday nights (October 20 and 27 ONLY) 6:00pm - 10:00pm (850) 675-3573 www.sweetseasonfarms.com

October 3–October 31

The Original Pumpkin Patch at St. Mark United Methodist Church St. Mark United Methodist Church 2203 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503

We will have a variety of pumpkins and gourds to choose from. It’s a great opportunity to take fall pictures with friends and family, too. Sundays 12pm-6pm, Mondays–Saturdays 10am-6pm. (850) 432-7777 www.stmarkpensacola.com

October 3, 7, 10-12, 18, 24-26

Steam: Spooky Slime Brew

Various Library Locations Join STEAM as you make SPOOKY slime with us! Glitter, bubbles, beads, and more! Make your slime yours! Oct. 3, 1–3:00pm–Westside Library, Oct. 7, 1-2:00pm–Century Library, Oct 10, 3–4:00pm–Tryon Library, Oct 12, 4–5:00pm–Southwest Library, Oct 18, 3–4:00pm–Bellview, Oct 24, 3–4:00pm–Molino Library, Oct 26, 3–4:00pm–Pensacola Library www.mywfpl.com

October 4-31

Cokesbury Pumpkin Patch

Cokesbury United Methodist Church 5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

All sizes, shapes, and colors! Come pick out and purchase one or many! Open 10 am - 6 pm daily (850) 476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

October 5-6

Monster Mash - A Halloween Murder Mystery Dinner Show

OWA 101-H S OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535

You are attending Frankenstein’s 205th Birthday Party! Meet and mingle with some of the most iconic monsters on the face of the earth. Family entertainment. 6:30pm (251) 237-2330 visitowa.com

October 5 - 31

Christ UMC Pumpkin Patch

Christ United Methodist Church 5983 Dogwood Drive Milton, FL 32570

The Pumpkin Patch opens October 5th and will be open everyday from 11am -7pm the entire month of October.

(850) 623-8820 www.christumcmilton.com

October 6

Genealogy Brown Bag: Ghost Stories of Pensacola

Pensacola Library 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us as we explore the dark and spooky history of Pensacola with ghost stories! 1-2:00pm www.mywfpl.com

October 6-7

First City Art Center’s 17th Annual Pumpkin Patch ad on page 27

1060 N Guillemard Street Pensacola, FL 32501

Over 5000 handmade glass & ceramic pumpkins and more. This fundraiser supports FCAC, a nonprofit art center, providing education and outreach programs. First Pick Preview Party Friday-Free Entry Saturday! Friday October 6th, 5pm-8pm ; Saturday October 7th, 10am-2pm

(850) 429-1222 www.firstcityart.org

October 6-8 & 13-15

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

The Center - Pensacola 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Ballet Pensacola presents Dracula. This haunting and legendary tale is sure to spookily delight your taste and ballet bite as we travel from Transylva-

nia to London in a pursuit of chaotic seduction, lust and frightful encounters. Inspired by Bram Stoker’s original fable, we entice you to join us, should you dare. October 6-7, 13-14 at 7:00pm, October 8, 15 at 2:30pm.

https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/ballet-pensacolas-dracula

Weekends in October

Pumpkin Patch Express & Scary Night Train

Wales West RV Park & Railway

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576

All Aboard the Pumpkin Patch Express and Scary Night Train! Enjoy Pumpkin Patch, Mini-train, Hayless Hayride, Potato Cannon, Cafe, Gift Shop, and more. Fri’s, Sat’s, Sun’s; 4-7pm Fall Festival Train; 7-9 pm, Scary Night Train. Nightly starting October 26, 2023. Reservations online, tickets at will call. (251) 232-2322 www.waleswest.com

Weekends and Halloween night

Haunted NightsSplash City Adventure

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Splash City Adventure 6709 Pensacola Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32505

The Haunted City is Pensacola’s Only Haunted Theme Park! Watch out for our numerous attractions and experiences throughout the Haunt. Saturday and Sunday Dusk (6pm) to 10pm, and Halloween Day 4 - 9 pm (850) 505-0800 www.splashcityadventures.com

October 7

Fall Festival-Lutheran Church of the Resurrection

6305 N Blue Angel Pkwy Pensacola, FL 32526 Games, crafts, hayride, pumpkin patch, animal exhibits, food and more! Free admission. 10am-1pm. (850) 944-3777 www.resluthpns.com

Annual DaneToberfest (Northwest Florida

Great Dane Rescue)

Seville Square Park 311 East Government Street

Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us from 11am - 4pm for live music, food, vendors, and of course featuring the Danes of Northwest Florida Great Dane Rescue!

(850) 438-4015 www.nwflgdr.com

Campus Church - Food Truck Festival

Campus Church 115 St John Street

Pensacola, FL 32503

We are bringing in food trucks from all over the Gulf Coast for you to enjoy. The day will include FREE entertainment from illusionist, David Corn, and FREE activities like bounce houses, mini games, and more! 11am-3pm. https://campuschurch.com/food-truck/

West Florida Railroad Museum

Fall Festival

5003 Henry St Milton, FL 32570

Fall Festival from 10am–3pm. This event will include: Museum tours, Food Vendor’s, children’s train rides, children’s interactive train activities, scavenger hunt and other fun activities for the entire family.

(850) 623-3645 www.wfrm.org/

October 7-8

Pensacon HalloweenFest

ad on page 23

Splash City Adventure 6709 Pensacola Boulevard

Pensacola, FL 32505

HalloweenFest offers two full days of spooky pop-culture fun in an outdoor, convention-style atmosphere. The weekend will feature vendors, live entertainment, celebrity guests, artists, trickor-treating and other fun in a safe environment.

(850) 505-0800 www.pensacon.com

October 8

Sea Turtle Extravaganza

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

8740 Gulf Blvd. Navarre, FL 32566

Shell-e-brate all things sea turtle through games, crafts, photo booth, costume characters, music and more! Free admission all day to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. 10am-2pm.

(850) 684-3347 www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org/

October 8-31

Pumpkin Patch - FBC of Beulah

First Baptist Church of Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526

First Baptist Church of Beulah’s fourth annual pumpkin patch fundraiser-classic and unique pumpkins are available for purchase. All proceeds go to our youth and children’s fund. Open daily from about noon until dusk. No entry fee.

(850) 375-1366 Find us on Facebook!

Crossview Church Pumpkin Patch

Crossview Church 4945 Saufley Field Road

Pensacola, FL 32526

Come to the little patch on the west side for pictures, memories and pumpkins! Pumpkins sold support the church youth program. Hours: Monday-Friday 2:00pm-6:00pm, Saturday-10:00am6:00pm, Sunday-12:00pm-6:00pm

(850) 456-4828 http://www.crossviewpensacola.org/

October 13

Breeze-O-Ween

800 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

Come enjoy costume contest, music, vendors, trick-or-treat stations, food, pumpkin carving and much more. 6:00PM– 8:00PM

https://dopensacola.com/event/breeze-o-ween/

Cinemas in the Sand

Gulfside Pavilion 20 Casino Beach Boardwalk

Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Join us with your beach chairs and blanket on Pensacola Beach while enjoying the FREE classic family film, Halloweentown. 7:00pm

www.visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand/

October 13, 14, 21, 27, and 28

Haunted House Walking & Trolley Tours

Pensacola, FL 32502

Explore Pensacola’s haunted history while helping to raise funds for Historic Pensacola.

(850) 595-5985 www.historicpensacola.org

October 14

Cokesbury StoryTime in the Pumpkin Patch

5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Stories, crafts, and games for our youngest friends and their families will be available in our pumpkin patch. Photo opportunities and purchasing pumpkins will also be available. Come and go between 9 am and 11 am.

(850) 476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

2023 Taste of the Beach

Pensacola Beach 7 Casino Beach Boardwalk

Pensacola, FL 32561

The day is filled with many restaurants’ signature dishes for $8 each, live music, a dance performance, a chef demonstration, cooking classes for kids, crab racing, t-shirt sales and more - all along Pensacola Beach. 10am-4pm www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Cantonment Arts & Crafts Festival

Pine Forest Assembly of God

3125 Pine Forest Road Cantonment, FL 32533

Join us for out Annual Arts & Crafts Festival from 9am -3pm. Food and merchandise available for purchase. Free Entry & Free Door Prizes.

(850) 476-1378 www.pineforestassembly.com/ craftshow

Healthy Halloween Party

Wedgewood Community Center

6405 Wagner RD Pensacola, FL 32505

Join us for a delightful and health-focused Halloween celebration hosted by the Junior League of Pensacola. Enjoy games, crafts, and healthy snacks. This event is FREE from 12:30pm3:00pm.

(850) 436-5195 https://pensacola.jl.org/events/ healthy-halloween-3/

Howl-o-ween - OWA

OWA 1501 S OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535

Join us for our dog costume contest, trying for a chance to win a share of $425 in cash prizes across exciting categories such as Most Creative, Best Team Costume, Spookiest, and Funniest costumes. 3pm-6pm.

(251) 923-2111 visitowa.com

Spooktacular Halloween Party

Pensacola Library 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us as we host a Spooktacular Halloween party full of creepy games, ghoulish crafts and other daring feats. Dress in your most ghastly costume and join us for a screaming good time. Suggested for youth and their families.

1:30pm-3:30pm www.mywfpl.com

October 14-29, 31

Halloween at OWA

OWA 1501 S OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535

Candy, costume contests, and more await you this Halloween season at OWA! Saturdays and Sundays-Oct. 14-29, Tuesday-October 31, Trick or Treat and Kids Activities-4pm-7pm, Island Movie6:30pm on Oct. 14, Dive in Movie-5:00pm on Oct. 15, 22, 29, Monster Bash Costume ContestSaturday, October 28, 1-7pm.

(251) 923-2111 visitowa.com

October 14-31

St. Luke UMC Pumpkin Patch

St. Luke United Methodist Church

1394 East Nine Mile Road Pensacola, FL 32514

Monday through Saturday 10am - 7pm and Sundays 11pm - 7pm starting on Saturday Oct. 14th. Prices are based on the size of the pumpkin. Follow us on Facebook at St. Luke United Methodist Church for event updates.

(850) 477-3145 www.stluke-umc.org

October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29

Boo at the Zoo

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Gulf Breeze Zoo 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway

Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Boo at the Zoo offers 6 days of scare-free, daytime fun for children and the young at heart. 10am-5pm. Visitors will enjoy trick-or-treat trail complete with candy, treats and toys, bounce houses, face painting, and our Ambassador Animal Headquarters, not to mention the entire Zoo! Visit our website for more info!

(850) 932-2229 www.GBZoo.com

October 15

1st Annual Chili Taste Fest

Community Maritime Park

301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL 32501

Come spend the day with chili sampling, live music, food trucks, bounce house and more. 11am-2pm. www.apexshowsandevents.com

October 19-October 29

Pensacola Interstate Fair

6655 West Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL 32526

Amazing food, thrilling rides and more. Come see us at The Fair!

(850) 944-4500 www.pensacolafair.com

October 20

Beach-O-Ween

Pensacola Beach Boardwalk

Pensacola, FL 32561

Bring the family out to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk to enjoy a free night of fun! Games, face painting, candy, food, and more. 4:00pm-8:00pm

(800) 635-4803 www.visitpensacolabeach.com

Gallery Night - Trick or Treat

Downtown Pensacola between Garden & Main St. Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us in the streets of Downtown Pensacola for a Halloween-themed event for all ages! Gallery Night will feature Halloween-themed art, fun, performances, and more! Event Times: 5:00pm9:00pm www.gallerynightpensacola.org

October 21

Science Spooktacular

Navarre Beach Marine Science Station

8638 Blue Heron Court Navarre Beach, FL 32566

Come on up to the science station and have a blast at our annual Science-by-the-Sea Spooktacular! Enjoy our haunted beach walk, spooky science experiments, games and more. 5pm-8pm.

$5 per person/ages 2 and under-Free

(850) 261-2141 www.navarrebeachmarinesciencestation.com/

Fall Festival-First Baptist Church of Beulah

First Baptist Church of Beulah

5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526

Games, candy, popcorn, cotton candy, inflatables, dunking booth and more! No entry fee, however the pumpkin patch will be open as well as a lemonade vendor. Join us for fall fun! 4pm-6pm

(850) 375-1366 Find us on Facebook!

Spooktacular: A Low Sensory Halloween Party

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Pensacola Museum of Art 407 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, Fl 32502

The Pensacola Museum of Art welcomes all ages to attend this fun event designed for individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Our seventh annual low-sensory Halloween event will feature activities inspired by the spookiest of ghosts, goblins, monsters, mummies, witches, werewolves, and more! Enjoy an evening of art, games, face painting, and light refreshments. Activity and game stations will have prizes and candy. Low sensory, quiet spaces will be available to visitors as needed. Wear your Halloween costume to this event and you’ll receive a free custom printed Spooktacular tote bag at the door! $12 tickets for participating kids and visitors on the spectrum, accompanying adults or caretakers are free. Tickets are available for sale online at: pensacolamuseum.org. 5pm-7-m

(850) 432-6247 crhea@uwf.edu https://pensacolamuseum.org/

2023 Miltons Blackwater Food Truck Festival

Jernigan’s Landing 5158 Willing Street

Milton, FL 32570

Join us from 11am-6pm for Food Trucks, Bounce House, Vendors and Live Entertainment. www.apexshowsandevents.com

Batty Fang-tastic Halloween

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge 3051 Cloptons Circle Navarre, FL 32566

Pull out your best Halloween costume for the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge’s Batty Fang-tastic Halloween event. There will be plenty of games and treats for the family, as well as a haunted trail walk and pumpkin patch. 3pm-7pm. emeraldcoastwildliferefuge.org

Fall Festival-First Baptist Church of Beulah

First Baptist Church of Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526

Fall Festival from 4pm-6pm with free food, candy, games and prizes. Fun for everyone! (850) 944-2143 https://www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org/

Woodbine Church Trunk or Treat

Woodbine Church 4912 Woodbine Road Pace, FL 32571

Join Anderson Subaru and Woodbine Baptist church for our free family event open to the public from 4:00pm-7:00pm. Trunk or Treating, kids games, contests, prizes, food trucks and more. (850) 995-0007 www.woodbinechurch.org

HalGLOWeen

OWA 1501 S OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535

Experience an unforgettable night filled with familyfriendly activities, including mesmerizing LED dancers, towering stilt walkers, glow-in-the-dark face painting, and a pulsating Glow Party with a DJ that promises a night of unforgettable fun and spooky spectacles, leaving you and your loved ones fully immersed in the spirit of the season. 6pm-8:30pm https://visitowa.com/

Pinelands Nursery Fall Festival

Pinelands Nursery 8365 Hwy 90 Milton, FL 32570

Enjoy FREE snow cones, popcorn, and a day packed with excitement: bounce house, face painting, giveaways, and more! Open to all, entry is FREE. Let’s make unforgettable memories together. 11am-2pm pinelandsFL.com

October 22

Latino Festival

Museum Plaza 120 Church St

Pensacola, FL 32502

Pensacola’s annual Latino Festival is a much anticipated event that features live music, food and activities celebrating our local Latino community and cultures. 12pm-8pm. https://latinomediainc.com/latino-festival-2023/

October 25

Cokesbury United Methodist Church

Trunk or Treat

Cokesbury United Methodist Church

5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Come enjoy a safe evening of candy, games, and treats! Children are welcome to wear costumes!

5:30pm-7:30pm.

(850) 476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

Jeepers Creepers Trunk or Treat/

Jeep Night

7171 N Davis Hwy Pensacola, FL 32504

Please join us for a FREE family event. A trunk or treat hosted by Pensacola Jeeps. We will have a food truck, candy, costume contests, prizes, and more. So come on out and see some awesome decorated jeeps and enjoy some delicious candy! 6pm https://allevents.in/pensacola/jeepers-creepers-trunkor-treat-jeep-night/200025332433536

October 26

Planetarium Special Feature:

Spooky Secrets of the Stars

Emerald Coast Science Center 31 Memorial Pkwy SW Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Dress in Halloween costumes, Trick-or-Treat, and prepare to be scared! Join us for a fun and scary night of monster stories, inspired by our planets, moons, and stars. 5pm./6pm.-family-friendly stories about the creepy creatures of mythology-ages 5 and up. Our 7pm. Spooktacular Show-ages 8 and up. (850) 664-1261 www.ecscience.org

St. Ann’s Trunk or Treat

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St. Ann’s Catholic Parish 100 Daniel Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

Come out and join us in the back parking lot for an evening of Trunk-or-Treating, games, food, face painting and a cake walk! Bring a trunk &/or kids! 4:30pm - 6:00pm. (850) 932-2859 www.stanngulfbreeze.org

October 27

Zarzaur Law’s 5th Annual

“Zalloween” Event

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Intersection of Palafox and Romana Streets Pensacola, FL 32502

Zarzaur Law P.A. presents a FREE downtown halloween/street party event for kids from 4pm -

6pm. Candy, games, fire truck, arts & crafts, kids costume contest at 5pm and more! (850) 444-9299 www.zarzaurlaw.com

Cobb’s Halloween

Trunk or Treat

ad on Inside Back Cover Cobb Resource Center

601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, FL 32503

Enjoy safe trick or treating in your community! Our seniors and center staff will decorate their vehicles and bring lots of candy! Let’s have a spooky good time! All Ages. Cost: Free. 4:45pm until supplies last. (850) 436-5192 www.playpensacola.com

Gull Point’s Halloween Trunk or Treat and Haunted Hallway

ad on Inside Back Cover

Gull Point Resource Center 7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, FL 32504

Join our us for candy, treats, games and spooky sights! Prize award for best decorated trunks! Email hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com if interested in sponsoring a trunk. All Ages. Free. 4:30 - 6:30pm www.playpensacola.com

Halo-Halloween

Bellview Library 6425 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL 32526

October is Filipino American History month, and we’re celebrating with our favorite dessert again:

halo-halo! New foods can be scary, but we’ll walk you through the ingredients while we talk about some spooky folklore from the Philippines. www.mywfpl.com

October 28

34th Annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest

Park West Fort Pickens Road

Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Carving is done underwater in 1 hour or less. $50 per team. Prizes, Costume Party, Food, Beverages. Registration 12pm, Carving 1pm. Proceeds benefit Alfred-Washburn Center, serving the homeless and poorer members of our community. More information on Facebook.

(850) 456-8845 www.florida-divepros.com

Special Needs Trunk or Treat

7552 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566

Our special needs community and their families are invited to a non-scary, allergy-sensitive, handicapped accessible event. Costumes are welcome but not required! 4pm - 6pm.

(850) 396-1008 www.emeraldcoastexceptional families.org

Wahooloween

Blue Wahoo Stadium 351 West Cedar Street

Pensacola, FL 32502

Kick off Halloween weekend for our annual Wahooloween trick-or-treat and movie event. Local businesses and organizations will host trick-or-treat booths between 5-6PM, followed by a showing of Coco, at 6PM. Tickets are $7. www.milb.com/pensacola/

AWA Farms Fall Festival

8781 State Road 89 Milton, FL 32570

Join us for trick-or-treating, hayrides, a bounce house, games, animal encounters along with shopping and food trucks! Fun for all ages and many animals you’re sure to fall in love with!

10am-6pm https://awafarms.com/

Boo at Bellingrath

ad on page 31

Bellingrath Gardens 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL 36582

Dress up your little ghosts and goblins for a day of Halloween fun. Trick or Treating from 1:00pm6:00pm. Enjoy Inflatables, treat stations, spooky storytime, music, food trucks and the movie “Halloweentown” at 6:30pm.

(251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Christ United Methodist Church

Pumpkin Patch Trunk or Treat

Christ United Methodist Church 5983 Dogwood Drive Milton, FL 32570

Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 28th from 5-7pm

(850) 623-8820 www.christumcmilton.com

Hauntcert 2023: A Family-Friendly

Halloween Concert

Saenger Theatre 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL 32502

Pensacola Children’s Chorus presents Hauntcert. Join us at the historic Saenger Theatre on Saturday, October 28, 2023, for a family-friendly

Halloween concert that’s bound to enchant and delight. Performances: 3:30pm, 6:30pm. (850) 434-7760 https://www.pensacolasings.org/ performances

Ice Flyers Small Dog Fright Night

Pensacola Bay Center 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL 32502

Fans enter their small dogs to race each other in their scariest or cutest costumes. The fun isn’t just for the pets though, as fans are encouraged to wear costumes as well. 7:05pm https://iceflyers.com/

Pumpkin Treat Bags

Century Branch Library 7991 North Century Boulevard Century, FL 32535

Join us in creating a one-of-a-kind Pumpkin Treat Bag, Perfect to hold all your spooktacular goodies! Suggested for youth and their families.

(850) 256-6217 www.mywfpl.com

St. Luke Trunk or Treat

St. Luke United Methodist Church

1394 East Nine Mile Road Pensacola, FL 32514

Trunk or Treat will be in front of the church in the paved parking lot. 4:00pm - 6:00pm.

(850) 477-3145 www.stluke-umc.org

Woodland Heights

Haunted Hallway

ad on Inside Back Cover

Woodland Heights Resource Center

111 Berkley Drive Pensacola, FL 32503

Join us for a scary fun night of ghosts, scary noises, darkness, and lots of screams! Candy treats for those brave enough to enter! Enter at your own risk and dare to walk through the haunted hallway. Reach the exit and there will be a surprise, so don’t be afraid to come inside. All Ages. Children under 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: Free. 6:00pm - 8:00pm

(850) 435-1751 www.playpensacola.com

October 29

Trunk or Treat

Friendship Baptist Church 5300 Berryhill Road

Milton, FL 32570

Everyone is welcome to come! We will have games, treats, chili cook-off, inflatables and much more! 5:00pm - 7:00pm.

(850) 983-2494 www.friendshipchurch.org

Barktoberfest

Seville Square Pensacola, FL 32502

Pet and family friendly festival and fundraiser. Contests, Vendors, Candy, Races, Food Trucks and more. 10:00am - 4:00pm.

(850) 466-3945 www.pensacolahumane.org

October 31

Crossview Church Trunk or Treat

Crossview Church 4945 Saufley Field Road

Pensacola, FL 32526

Join us from 6:00pm - 7:30pm with trunks full of goodies and surprises. Bring the family for a night of fun and safe night.

(850) 456-4828 http://www.crossviewpensacola.org/

Family Fall Festival

Ensley Church of the Nazarene 8300 North Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32534

A family-friendly, alternative to Halloween trick-

or-treating. This FREE event includes carnival games, hot dog and chili dinners, family photos and lots of treats. Costumes welcome. 6pm-8pm

(850) 476-4458 info@ecnaz.org www.ecnaz.org

Fricker’s Halloween

Trunk or Treat

ad on Inside Back Cover

Fricker Resource Center 900 North F Street

Pensacola, FL 32501

Join our Halloween extravaganza filled with candy, games, and FUN! All Ages. Cost: Free. 6:00pm8:00pm. Cost: Free.

(850) 436-5195 www.playpensacola.com

November 2-13

Foo Foo Festival

Various Locations Pensacola, FL

Foo Foo Fest is a 12-day celebration each fall, with culturally creative happenings, events and moments under one banner, attracting visitors to beautiful Pensacola, Florida.

https://foofoofest.com/

November 3-5

Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival

Seville Square 311 East Government Street

Pensacola, FL 32502

Arts, crafts, music & food. Friday & Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 9am - 4pm. Free admission. Children’s Festival: Saturday & Sunday from 10am-4pm.

www.ggaf.org

Pensacola Greek Festival

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

1720 W Garden Street Pensacola, FL 32502

The Pensacola Greek Festival is a celebration of our Greek Heritage focusing on food, music, dancing, and family friendly fun. Friday, Saturday 11am-8:30pm, Sunday 11am-3pm.

https://pensacolagreekfestival.com/

November 4

Beulah Craft and Sausage Festival

First Baptist Church of Beulah

5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526 Family friendly and fun time. Live music, arts and crafts, and of course the famous Beulah sausage dogs. 9:00am - 3:00pm.

(850) 542-6551 https://www.facebook.com/events/ 6443297079098160/?ref=newsfeed

Coastline Calvary Chapel - Fall Fest

Shoreline Park 800 Shoreline Drive

Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

A free family fun day open to the community of Gulf Breeze! Big inflatables & games, skateboarding, basketball, food, and sharing the love of Jesus Christ through fellowship. 11am - 3pm.

(850) 932-8197 www.coastlinelife.com

Great Pumpkin 5K & Fun Run

1603 N 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503

The popular 5K race, which begins at 12th Avenue and Moreno Street and winds through scenic and historic East Hill, proceeds from the race benefit the Sacred Heart Cathedral School. 8am

(850) 436-6440 http://www.runsignup.com/Race/ FL/Pensacola/GreatPumpkinRun5Kandwalk

November 11

Hot Diggity Dog Fest

Community Maritime Park 301 West Main Street

Pensacola, FL 32501

Join us from 10am-5pm, enjoy hot dog eating contest, food trucks, vendors, bounce house and more. www.apexshowsandevents.com

Pensacola Maker Faire

Museum Plaza 201 Zaragoza St

Pensacola, FL 32502

Come see exhibits, demonstrations and hands-on activities from some of the most creative and innovative Makers in our community. 10am-4pm. https://pensacola.makerfaire.com/

The Night on the Tracks Block Party

Various locations Pensacola, FLNight on the Tracks kicks off with a participatory DIY street parade. Following the parade, the Night on the Tracks Block Party will ensue with food trucks, an artisan market, and interactive science and math games presented by Pensacola MESS Hall, live music and more. 4:00pm www.foofoofest.com/2023-events/309-punk-project/

Wilde Lake Church - Arts and Crafts Festival Wilde Lake Church 2800 Wilde Lake Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32526

33rd Annual Arts and Crafts Festival on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. The day

features over 165 arts, crafts & other vendors, homemade baked goods, and delicious food. 9am-3pm. (850) 944-0170

November 12

Pensacola Beach

2022 Art & Wine Festival

7 Casino Beach

Boardwalk Pensacola, FLSip, stroll and shop your way around the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk when it turns into an artist and wine lover’s paradise this November 12th at the 2023 Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival. 11am-4pm (850) 932-1500 www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/ art-wine-festival

November 18

Pensacola Fall Food Truck Festival

Community Maritime Park 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL 32501

Food Trucks, Vendors, Bounce House, Live Entertainment, Culinary Competition and more. $5 entry

fee, 12 and under are free. 11:00am-7:00pm. apexshowsandevents.com

November 18-19

Santa Rosa County Creek Indian Tribal Grounds 4750 Willard Norris Road Pensacola, FL 32570

Creek Fest is two full days of fun, activities and entertainment. There will be live Native flute music, Native Dance, food, Replica Native American Village and Trading Post, arts and craft vendors, face painting, and various games and activities for children. 9am-5pm (833) 772-7335

https://santarosacreekband.org/2022-creekfest/

Jubilee Renaissance Faire

The Medieval Village 30569 Osprey Lane Robertsdale, AL 36567

Enjoy Medieval Games of Skill, such as Archery or Axe throwing. War Horse rides, a Falconry demonstration and other live animal exhibitions. The main event will be a real full contact Jousting Tournament. 10am-5pm.

www.jubileerenaissancefaire.com GPP

“Stop doing these 17 things for your kids right now, or you’ll fail to raise independent, successful human beings!”

Parents have been inundated with these types of articles lately, and I’ll be the first to admit I have some habits that fall into the “naughty” category. Packing my kids’ lunches? Check. Cleaning up after them? Check. Making sure their homework is done? Check, check, check.

My daughters are in second grade and kindergarten, and I’m looking forward to helping them become more self-sufficient in the coming year, simply by doing less for them

week, when little sister dropped her snack on the ground and the threat of a meltdown was looming, big sister, unprompted, offered up her own granola bar as a replacement. “Hey, that was a really nice thing to do,” I told big sister, and I extended the kudos by mentioning it to their dad later that day. Believe me, there are plenty of days when sharing and being kind seem to be the last thing on my kids’ minds, so I’m all for highlighting these moments when they happen.

1. Telling them a bedtime story.

My kids love books, but the stories they seem to enjoy the most are the ones that come straight from the perpetually exhausted brains of their parents. Over the years, our bedtime stories have ranged from the heartfelt to the hilarious, from fairy tales created on the fly to discussions about space and nature. My husband and I have shared recollections of grandparents and great-grandparents, and the different world in which they grew up. All of these stories have played a vital role in sparking my kids’ curiosity about the world around them, and I’ve often even learned something new in the process. I imagine that someday our nightly stories will evolve into after dinner conversations over coffee, tea or ice cream, but the importance of the ritual will remain the same.

2. Noticing and praising when they’ve acted with compassion or kindness.

I’m not talking about ego boosting here; what I mean is simply noticing and recognizing when my kids do the right thing. Last

3. Offering them different foods, even if they’ve tried it already and swear they hate it.

My kids are fairly picky eaters, which I find frustrating. It’s not as though I’m serving them free-range quinoa with sautéed brussel sprouts and tofu; in recent history, they’ve given a ruthless thumbs-down to cheese pizza, homemade mini chicken pot pies, and chocolate chip pumpkin muffins (I mean, who turns down anything involving chocolate?!). Still, I’ll continue to encourage my kids to try lots of different foods, including items they’ve previously rejected, because I’m banking on the fact that one day their tastebuds will have an “aha!” moment. I refuse to believe their palates can’t expand to appreciate cuisine beyond apples, plain spaghetti and Goldfish crackers.

4. Giving them a safe space to vent over school, friendships or other issues, no matter how minor.

Yes, kids need to develop a thicker skin and learn how to handle disappointment and all that jazz. But that does not mean

I can’t offer a non-judgmental ear when they come to me feeling sad or frustrated because so-and-so at school was mean or didn’t like their hairstyle that day. Being there to listen doesn’t necessarily mean solving the problem for my daughters, but my hope is that it will foster trust and openness that will extend into the pre-teen and teenage years.

5. Letting them see me being silly, even if it means embarrassing them sometimes!

Humor was a key element of my childhood. While we didn’t always say “I love you,” my family often showed affection via goofy behavior and jokes. When I played trumpet in the school band, I was always incredibly nervous about missing the high notes during my solos. In response, my dad promised that if I ever botched a note during a concert, he’d stand up and blow his nose loudly; that way, everyone in the audience would focus on him instead of my mistake. Naturally, I protested: “Noooo Dad that’s so embarrassing!!!” But I still had to smile, because I knew deep down this was my dad’s way of saying, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.”

Whatever my kids are facing in life, I want them to know I’ll be there for them, even when they are able to tie their own shoes, make their own lunches, and one day (someday!) even do their own laundry.

But there are still some things I plan to continue doing for them, for as long as they’ll let me.

Gina Rich is a Wisconsin writer specializing in parenting, health, and the natural world.

GPP

FamilyCalendar

Sunday October 1

Free Yoga in the Park

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Free one-hour yoga classes will be held in Bayview Park or Community Maritime Park on the first Sunday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Classes are open to all ages and levels of experience. Certified instructors from Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center will provide instruction. The class is free, but you will need to BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat) and any other accessories you would like to use.

www.cityofpensacola.com

Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Pensacola Bay Area

3:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501

Tuesday October 3

Bands On The Beach 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. October 3 – True Blue Band https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Wednesday October 4

Killer Queen - A Tribute To Queen

7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Thursday October 5

Bubble Brews and Bites

6:00 PM SCI Building, 220 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a special event combining Science + Food. This walk-about tasting event will feature local chefs sharing samples of gourmet food that utilizes unique methods of food preparation and preservation. Get ready for an entertaining and delicious science adventure!

pensacolamesshall.org/bubbles-brews-and-bites/

Friday October 6

Bands on the Blackwater

7:00 PM Downtown Milton - Jernigans Landing, 5158 South Willing Street Milton, FL Fall Live Concert Series at Jernigan’s Landing.

https://www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater/

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

Saturday October 7

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Opening Night

7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Set the stage for a spectacular season with Respighi’s iconic homage to the Eternal City, Pines of Rome, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and the return of pianist Sara Davis Buechner for Strauss’ Burleske.

pensacolasymphony.com/product/opening-night-2023/

Take a Kid Fishing

8:00 AM - 12:00

PM, Navarre Beach

Fishing Pier, 8579 Gulf Blvd. Navarre, FL, 32566 This kid’s fishing clinic is staged at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. The First 200 children (12 and under) receive a fishing pole and goodie bag that includes free bait and fishing instruction. This event usually fills up quickly. Proceeds go to Navarre Chamber Foundation, a 501C3. For more information and to pre-register visit www.takeakidfishingnavarre.com or www.Navarre Chamber Foundation.org. www.takeakidfishingnavarre.com

Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Fest

1:30 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501

https://www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com/

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

7:00 PM Details on October 6.

Santa Rosa Island Triathlon

Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL 27th Annual Zarzaur Law Santa Rosa Island Triathlon (SRI TRI) is located on beautiful Pensacola Beach, Florida. This is a great destination race for the entire family. This USAT sanctioned sprint distance triathlon features a flat and fast course. The 600 yd swim is along the pristine shores of the Gulf of Mexico. The bike is an out and back that traverses along the shores of the Pensacola Beach and the 5 kilometer run takes you through an idyllic beach neighborhood. The after party will feature complimentary food and beverages for athletes. https://www.santarosaislandtriathlon.com/

Sunday October 8

Zarzaur Law Sea Turtle Triathlon

8:00 AM Pensacola Beach, Park East, Pensacola, FL The event features a full triathlon experience for children from 7 to 15 year of age while friends and family cheer them on. With a fully supported event on a closed course, safety and encouragement from volunteers complement the excitement of children sharing in the multisport lifestyle and celebrating being triathletes.

watering brunch bites and a whole lot of fun

https://emeraldcoastbgc.org/event/brunchfestpensacola-fl/

Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Fest

1:30 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 https://www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com/

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

2:30 PM Details on October 6.

Tuesday October 10

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. October 10 – Crosstown www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/

Thursday October 12

Disney Junior Live: Costume Palooza

6:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Disney Junior Live: Costume Palooza

https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Friday October 13

Charity Tennis Challenge

3:00 PM Roger Scott Tennis Complex, 2200A Summit Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32503 Pensacola Sports is excited to partner with The Lewis Bear Company to present the 17th annual Bud Light Charity Challenge Tennis Tournament. This event benefits Arc Gateway, an organization that provides the best possible life experiences for more than 800 children

www.pensacolasports.org/bud-light-charity-challenge/

Boogie T.Rio Concert

Join the fun at Laguna’s Beach Bar & Grill when Boogie T.Rio performs live on the ticki deck! For tickets visit LagunasPB.com/entertainment. Event is age 18+.

Doors open at 8pm. Laguna’s Beach Bar & Grill is located at 400 Pensacola Beach Blvd.

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

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

7:00 PM The Center - Pensacola, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Ballet

Pensacola presents Dracula. This haunting and legendary tale is sure to spookily delight your taste and ballet bite as we travel from Transylvania to London in a pursuit of chaotic seduction, lust and frightful encounters… Inspired by Bram Stoker’s original fable, we entice you to join us, should you dare. October 6-7, 13-14 at 7:00pm, October 8, 15 at 2:30pm.

https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/ballet-pensacolas-dracula

https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/PensacolaBeach/SeaTurtleTriathlon

Sea Turtle Extravaganza

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, 8740 Gulf Blvd Navarre, FL, 32566 Shelle-brate all things sea turtle through games, crafts, photo booth, costume characters, music and more! Free admission all day to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. NBSTCC is open until 4 pm. 850-684-3347 www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org/

3rd Annual BrunchFest

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Seville Quarter, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Attention all brunch aficionados! The 3rd Annual BrunchFest benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is on October 8th, 2023! Meet us at Seville Quarter for a morning filled with mouth-

Bands on the Blackwater

7:00 PM Downtown Milton - Jernigans Landing, 5158 South Willing Street Milton, FL Fall Live Concert Series at Jernigan’s Landing.

https://www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater/

Rodney Carrington

7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Rodney Carrington is a multi-talented comedian, actor, singer, and writer playing sold-out shows around the world as one of the top 10 highest-grossing touring comedians for the past two decades.

https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

7:00 PM Details on October 6.

FamilyCalendar

Saturday October 14

Run for the Reef 10K/5K and Kid’s One Mile Fun Run

7:30 AM Windjammers on the Pier, 8597 Gulf Blvd. Navarre, FL, 32566 This event is a fundraiser to help “Make Navarre Snorkelicious”, a benefit for the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary and artificial reefs. www.navarrebeachmarinesanctuary.org

Saturday October 14

Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 “Sea No Limits” Fishing Clinic-Offered to Children and Adults, with Physical or Intellectual Disabilities Requiring Supervised Care, Strictly limited to the first 250 applicants, Pre-Registration for the Fishing Clinic is required. This FREE Event includes: Fishing Rod & Reel, Grilled lunch w/ beverages, TShirt, Child ID Program (Optional), Fish Identification Booklets, Fishing Instruction, Bait. https://www.seanolimits.com/

Navarre’s 5th Annual Wing Cook-Off

11:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Navarre Park, Navarre, FL, 32566 Navarre’s 5th Annual Wing Cook-Off https://business.navarrechamber.com/events/ details/navarre-s-5th-annual-wing-cook-off25496?calendarMonth=2023-10-01

Opera Al Fresco (Free)

1:00 PM HK Matthews Park, 1200 E Anderson St Pensacola, FL, 32503 Join us for an evening of beautiful music—al fresco! Opera Al Fresco is back H.K. Matthews Park for a lovely concert of favorite opera, musical theatre, and popular tunes. Bring your lawn chairs and we’ll see you at the park! https://pensacolaopera.com/

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

7:00 PM Details on October 6.

Charity Tennis Challenge

Roger Scott Tennis Complex, 2200A Summit Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32503 Pensacola Sports is excited to partner with The Lewis Bear Company to present the 17th annual Bud Light Charity Challenge Tennis Tournament. This event benefits Arc Gateway, an organization that provides the best possible life experiences for more than 800 children. www.pensacolasports.org/bud-light-charity-challenge/

Sunday October 15

1st Annual Chili Taste Fest ($5 Entry Kids 12 and Under are Free if not tasting)

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Entry fee lets you taste all of the Chili’s teams recipe’s and vote for the best teams chili People’s Choice Award. We will have live music, vendors, food truck meals to purchase, bounce house, adult beverages. https://apexshowsandevents.com/

Ballet Pensacola’s Dracula

2:30 PM Details on October 6.

Tuesday October 17

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. October 17 – String Farm https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday October 19

Farm to Table Dinner

5:30 PM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W. Cedar Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Our annual Farm to Table Dinner, featuring a four-course meal under the lights at Blue Wahoos Stadium and live music from Jordan Torrez, returns on Thursday, October 19. https://www.milb.com/pensacola/tickets/specialevents

Hotel California - A Salute to the Eagles

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre , 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/hotelcalifornia/

Friday October 20

Friends of West Florida Public Library

50th Anniversary Gala

6:00 PM Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 South I Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Dinner, dancing, and fantastic raffle prizes, along with a talk by Craig Pittman, author of Oh, Florida! To get more information and purchase tickets, go to www. friendsofwfpl.org.

https://friendsofwfpl.org/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story

7:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

PSC presents Escape to Margaritaville

7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Featuring both original songs and your most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics, this new musical is the story of a part-time bartender, part-time singer, and full-time charmer named Tully who thinks he’s got life all figured out. Until a beautiful career-minded tourist steals his heart and makes him question everything. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

United Way Day of Caring

Various locations, Day of Caring connects volunteers with local nonprofit agencies and schools in need of support. This is your chance to take part in one of the largest single days of volunteerism in our community. https://www.uwwf.org/dayofcaring

Saturday October 21

Sip & Science: Mystery at the Museum

6:00 PM Emerald Coast Science Center, 31 Memorial Parkway SW Fort Walton, FL, 32548 Bring your friends, grab a drink, and crack the case. We’re dying to have you at our next Sip & Science: Mystery at the Museum. http://ecscience.org/events

Joe Gatto

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre , 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/hotel-california/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story

7:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

PSC presents Escape to Margaritaville

7:30 PM Details on October 20.

Sunday October 22

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story

2:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

PSC presents Escape to Margaritaville

2:30 PM Details on October 20.

Tuesday October 24

Climate Change: Energy, Solar, Land Use, and Public Health

5:20 PM Pensacola Downtown Library, 239 N Spring Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a discussion on how we are creating climate change through our actions and what we can do to minimize those impacts. Speakers will discuss climate change and public health, land use, solar, and energy conservation.

https://www.wuwf.org/community-calendar/event/ climate-change-energy-solar-land-use-and-publichealth-25-05-2023-08-20-41

StarWound: “Interiors,” presented by Experience UWF Downtown

6:30 PM The REX Theatre Pensacola, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join the Experience UWF Downtown Lecture Series on October 24 as the Athens, Greece -based, band StarWound presents “Interiors.”

https://www.wuwf.org/community-calendar/event/ uwf.edu/downtownlectures

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. October 24 – Knee Deep Band

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

United States Theatre, 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 The premier jazz ensemble of the United States Navy offers big band jazz at its finest. https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Wednesday October 25

Savvy Mom Sale

9am - 5pm 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

Thursday October 26

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story

2:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

FamilyCalendar

Savvy Mom Sale

10am-7pm 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

Friday October 27

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story

7:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

Savvy Mom Sale

9am - 5pm Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98, Daphne, AL 36526 25% off day! 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

PSC presents Escape to Margaritaville

7:30 PM Details on October 20.

Saturday October 28

Annual Fenner Ride Cycling Event for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Clyde L. Gracey Community Center, 5629 Byrom Street Milton, FL, October is a great time to get outside, enjoy the cooler temperatures, reconnect with nature, and enjoy all that life has to offer. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and the West Florida Wheelmen present the annual Fenner Ride on Saturday, October 28, 2023. All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Milton/FennerRide

Savvy Mom Sale

8am - 2pm Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98, Daphne, AL 36526 50% off day! 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

Making Strides Pensacola

8:00 AM Seville Square, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us Saturday, October 28th, 2023, at Seville Square to make strides against breast cancer. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a 5k non-competitive fundraising walk with no registration fee or minimum donation required. www.makingstrideswalk.org/pensacolaFL

Pensacola Little Theatre presents

Alabama Story

7:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

PSC presents Escape to Margaritaville

7:30 PM Details on October 20.

Hauntcert: A Family-Friendly Halloween Concert Saenger Theatre , 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502

Join us at the historic Saenger Theatre on Saturday, October 28, 2023, for a family-friendly Halloween concert that’s bound to enchant and delight. Performances: 3:30pm, 6:30pm. https://www.pensacolasings.org/performances

Sunday October 29

Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story

2:30 PM 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Little Theatre presents Alabama Story https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-andevents/alabama-story

PSC presents Escape to Margaritaville

2:30 PM Details on October 20.

Tuesday October 31

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. October 31 – Not Quite Fab https://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

Thursday November 2

Singing in the Street, presented by Choral Society of Pensacola & Pensacola Children’s Chorus

6:00 PM Pensacola Museum of History, 330 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 This free event merges the enchantment of Disney, the dynamism of Broadway, and the thrill of a flash mob, inviting everyone to join a spirited singalong experience.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/singing-in-thestreet-presented-by-pensacola-childrens-chorus/

Xanadu Kick-Off Party (Free)

7:00 PM REX Theatre, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 A dynamic musical review starring members of the cast and crew of Xanadu. The event will feature a sampling of musical numbers from the show followed by a meet & greet and talk back session with cast & crew.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/xanadu-presented-by-dixon-school-of-arts-and-sciences/

Friday November 3

Pensacola Opera presents Così Fan Tutte

7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium-Pensacola State College, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Sisters Dorabella and Fiordiligi are madly in love with Ferrando and Guglielmo. But when their boyfriends are put up to a scheme meant to test their love and devotion, will their affections survive?

https://pensacolaopera.com/event/cosi-fan-tutte/ Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

Naval Air Station Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32508 NAS

Pensacola is pleased to announce the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 3-4, 2023, with the theme “Celebrating Women In Aviation.”

https://www.naspensacolaairshow.com/

Saturday November 4

Night Moves Music Fest

12:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Various locations, Pensacola, FL The Fest will be an all-ages, all-welcoming, all-day music festival that will take place at Maritime Park on November 4, 2023

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/night-moves-fest/

Week in the Park: Music in the Park

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Veterans Memorial Park, 200 S. 10th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32502 The week will kick off with music in the park performed by Black Bird Anthem and Josh Davis.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/week-in-the-parkmusic-in-the-park/

“It’s Time” to Slay Cancer with Dragons

7:30 PM Clark Family Cultural Center, 400 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 A choral and rock fusion concert to benefit The Tyler Robinson (of Imagine Dragons) Foundation (TRF) Featuring Goldmine and the UWF Singers.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/its-time-to-slaycancer-with-dragons/

Katt Williams

8:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Comedy legend and Emmy® Award-winning actor, Katt Williams, announces THE DARK MATTER TOUR is coming to Pensacola.

https://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/ kattwilliams2023

Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

Naval Air Station Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32508 NAS Pensacola is pleased to announce the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 3-4, 2023, with the theme “Celebrating Women In Aviation.”

https://www.naspensacolaairshow.com/

Sunday November 5

Pensacola Opera presents Così Fan Tutte

2:00 PM Details on November 3.

Monday November 6

Broadway in Pensacola - Mean Girls

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502

www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/mean-girls/

Tuesday November 7

The Living Museum: A Trip through Pensacola’s History (Free)

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Pensacola Museum of History, 330 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 This interactive experience will feature diverse characters from Pensacola’s storied history, beginning in 1559 with the discovery of Pensacola by Don Tristan de Luna and continuing through today.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/the-living-museum-a-trip-through-pensacolas-history/

Rhythm & Canvas: Artist Scott Andresen Lecture & Reception

5:00 PM Anna Lamar Switzer Center for Visual Arts at Pensacola State College, Pensacola, FL, 32504

As part of a collaboration between the Visual Arts Department and the Performing Arts Department at Pensacola State College, “Rhythm and Canvas” will feature artwork and performances of New Orleansbased artists.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/rhythm-canvasartist-scott-andresen-lecture-reception/

FamilyCalendar

Broadway in Pensacola - Mean Girls

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/mean-girls/

Wednesday November 8

Singeasy, presented by Pensacola Little Theatre

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Our speakeasy-inspired series keeps audiences staying and swaying to an eclectic variety of musical genres under the dim lights of The Center’s redesigned black box theatre. This fall, visitors fall into Foo with the local talent, live musicians, and hand-crafted libations of Pensacola’s only Singeasy. https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/singeasy-presented-by-pensacola-little-theatre/

Rhythm & Canvas: Jazz Concerts featuring Adonis Rose

Ashmore Auditorium Pensacola State College, Pensacola, FL, 32504 Rhythm & Canvas: Jazz Concerts featuring Adonis Rose. Time: 5:00 pm and 7:30 pm https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/rhythm-canvasjazz-concerts-featuring-adonis-rose/

Thursday November 9

Songs Down South, presented by Pensacola Opera

5:00 PM Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 From Opera to Opry… Pensacola Opera is proud to present Songs Down South! Sponsored by Art, Culture, and Entertainment, Inc. (ACE) as a part of this year’s 10th Anniversary of Foo Foo Fest, Songs Down South will

celebrate two well-loved southern traditions—food and music!

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/songs-downsouth-presented-by-pensacola-opera/

Desperate Measures, presented by PenArts

($18) 7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N De Villiers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Based on Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure, DESPERATE MEASURES, by Peter Kellogg and David Friedman, is an entertaining, witty, and fast-paced musical https://foofoofest.com/

Singeasy, presented by Pensacola Little Theatre

7:30 PM Details on November 8.

Friday November 10

Laughter is Good for the Soul: Veterans of Comedy Show

5:30 PM Veterans Memorial Park, 200 S. 10th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32502 With their motto, “No laugh left behind”, the Veterans of Comedy bring laughter to the men and women in uniform, past and present, and help connect the rest of the community by learning and inviting people to understand each other through the one thing we all have in common, a good laugh.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/week-in-the-parkveterans-of-comedy-show/

Xanadu, presented by Dixon School of Arts and Sciences (General Admission: $25, Students: $15)

7:30 PM University of West Florida, 11000 University Pkwy Pensacola, FL, 32514 Dixon School of Arts and Sciences brings Tony Award Nominated musical

Xanadu to the 10th Anniversary of Foo Foo! https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/xanadu-presented-by-dixon-school-of-arts-and-sciences/

Desperate Measures, presented by PenArts ($18) 7:30 PM Details on November 9.

Singeasy, presented by Pensacola Little Theatre

7:30 PM Details on November 8.

Saturday November 11

Maker Faire

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Museum Plaza, 201 Zaragoza St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, projects. https://pensacola.makerfaire.com/

Homecoming: A Musical Celebration of History & Tradition, presented by Pensacola Symphony Orchestra (Free) 1:00 PM National Naval Aviation Museum, 1750 Radford Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32508 Join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra onboard Naval Air Station Pensacola for a free Veterans Day concert celebrating the men and women of our Armed Services. Featuring an ensemble of 12 brass and percussion musicians, the performance will include patriotic favorites from John Philip Sousa along with jazz and big band music by American composers Eric Whitacre and David Marlatt.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/homecoming-amusical-celebration-of-history-tradition-presented-bypensacola-symphony-orchestra/

FamilyCalendar

Jazz for Justice, presented by Legal Services of North Florida (Free)

1:00 PM Pensacola’s Museum Plaza, Pensacola, FL Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF) is bringing back a lineup of high-caliber music and intricate rhythms to downtown Pensacola with its annual Jazz for Justice music event.

https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/jazz-for-justicepresented-by-legal-services-of-north-florida/

Fundraising Dinner & Concert featuring Hall of Fame Singer-Songwriter Mac McAnally

5:30 PM First Baptist Church of Pensacola, 500 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32501 https://foofoofest.com/2023-events/week-in-the-parkfundraising-dinner-concert-featuring-hall-of-famesinger-songwriter-mac-mcanally/

On Broadway, presented by Pensacola Civic Band

7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join Us for a Spectacular Evening with the Pensacola Civic Band and Special Guest Artist Megan Hilty. https://www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Singeasy, presented by Pensacola Little Theatre

7:30 PM Details on November 8.

Xanadu, presented by Dixon School of Arts and Sciences (General Admission: $25, Students: $15) Details on November 10.

Desperate Measures, presented by PenArts ($18) Details on November 9.

Sunday November 12 2023 Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival

11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, 400 Quietwater Beach Rd Pensacola, FL, 32561 On Nov. 12, the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk will turn into an artist and wine lover’s paradise for the Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival.

Pensacola EggFest 2023

11:00 AM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W. Cedar Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The event hosts BBQ teams and backyard cooks from all over the United States who share two things: a love of cooking and the joy of giving back to their communities. https://www.milb.com/pensacola/tickets/ specialevents

Desperate Measures, presented by PenArts ($18) 2:30 PM Details on November 9.

Singeasy, presented by Pensacola Little Theatre

2:30 PM Details on November 8.

Xanadu, presented by Dixon School of Arts and Sciences (General Admission: $25, Students: $15)

7:30 PM Details on November 10.

Every Monday

Baby Story Time at Your Library

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

Every Tuesday

Story Sprouts @Ever’man Co-op (Free)

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

Baby Story Time at Your Library

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

Family Story Time at Your Library

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

Family Story Time at Your Library

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

Every Wednesday

Family Story Time at Your Library

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

Every Thursday

Family Story Time at Your Library

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

Family Story Time at Your Library

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

Lego Club

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

850-471-6360 https://mywfpl.com/

Every third Thursday

What’s Cooking with Baptist

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

Every other Friday

Art Academy for AutismAges 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

Friday Night Game Night-Autism Pensacola

6:00 PM Autism Pensacola, 10001 N. Davis Hwy Pensacola, FL Join us every 3rd Friday of the month for Friday Night Game Night with Autism Pensacola. Game Night will feature a variety of Nintendo Switch games, puzzles, card games and more! Pizza, snacks and drinks will be available. For Ages 16 and older. Cost: $10 per person. Register online to attend. https://autismpensacola.org/

Every Saturday

Palafox Market

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

Mystery Book

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Every Saturday we hide the Mystery Book somewhere in the Children’s Collection. The child who finds it gets a trip to the treasure chest! There is one winner every Saturday. 850-471-6980 https://mywfpl.com/

Children’s Storytime in the Lighthouse

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

www.bodaciousbookstore.com/cafe/

Every first and third Saturday

Hwy 87 Market

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

Every first and third Saturday

Creation Stations

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

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

Every first Saturday

Body, Mind, Spirit Market

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

Every fourth Saturday

Pensacola Arts Market

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

Every other Saturday

Art Academy for Autism

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

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

Every Sunday

Sunday Market on Palafox

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

Select days in September

Pensacola Blue Wahoos Minor League Baseball 6:35 PM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W. Cedar Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Blue Wahoos Minor League Baseball. Please visit our website for dates/times/promotions.

850-934-8444 www.milb.com/pensacola

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

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

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

Born with degenerative spinal disease, Rickey Hill was told he would never walk. With the aid of leg braces, he not only learned to walk; he learned to play baseball using sticks and stones instead of bats and balls. But with his medical challenges and an unsupportive father, will he ever be able to play with the pros? This is a predictable underdog sports film, but it carries strong messages about goal-setting, persistence, managing family disagreements, and religious faith. ©Briarcliff Entertainment

A Million Miles Away

He may have been a migrant farm worker in his childhood, but José Hernandez has bigger plans. Qualified as an engineer, he sets his sights on becoming an astronaut. This film hits all the beats of a standard inspirational biopic but adds something more: an exploration of how failure can be a critical part of the path to success. With minimal negative content and a compelling example of the support found in a solid marriage and extended family, it’s a good choice for older kids and teens. Photo ©Amazon MGM Studios

Once Upon a Crime

A Haunting in Venice

Setting out on adventure, Little Red Riding Hood runs across Cinderella, who hopes to attend the royal ball. With the help of two semi-competent fairies, the new friends are properly attired and arrive at the ball, only to be caught up in a murder. As one of the suspects, Little Red Riding Hood needs to solve the crime and clear her name. This should be a fun, silly movie, but it’s incoherent, narratively irrational, and poorly paced. The story deserves a better film. Photo ©Netflix

When a friend persuades him to take a break from retirement to help investigate a psychic, Hercule Poirot does not expect to be involved in another murder. Solving this one will require the “little grey cells” of his exceptional brain and an examination of his own soul. Unlike other Agatha Christie adaptations, this film is not closely tied to a novel. It’s also dark, brooding, and filled with anxiety and trauma related to World War II. The characters have depth and the cinematography is visually interesting, but this isn’t family fare. Photo ©20th Century Studios

You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah

Stacy and Lydia have been best friends since childhood and are obsessed with planning their upcoming bat mitzvah parties. But when a boy comes between them, their friendship shatters and Stacy’s vengeful behavior might make reconciliation impossible. Funny and almost unbearably cringe-y in some scenes, this film also makes relevant points about friendship, loyalty, self-assessment, maturity, and the strength found in religious communities. It will be enjoyed by tweens and teens of any faith. Photo ©Netflix

The Most Important Nine Minutes in Your Child’s Day

I read something this week that I would like to share with you. There are nine minutes that have the greatest impact on a child’s day. They are first three minutes right after they wake up, the first three minutes when they get home from school, and the three minutes right before bed. This information hit home for me, making so much sense.

The first three minutes after a child wakes up are crucial because it’s how we set the day. What we allow into our headspace first thing in the morning truly sets our mood. We may not even realize how much we are affected. For instance, if your child starts their day immediately with a device, they begin with blue light. They will probably spend most of their day looking at their phone or computers at school, which causes eye strain. Starting the day with blue light stresses your child’s eyes and brain. Secondly, and most importantly, what they watch first sets the tone. Watching something that is upsetting, hurtful, or frustrating can lead to your child feeling these emotions before they begin their day.

Conversely, a positive effect can be if they use their device to watch something uplifting or encouraging. For example, suppose they are meditating, reading, exercising, or listening to uplifting podcasts. In that case, these are beautiful ways to use their devices to start the day positively.

The first three minutes they get home from school are challenging as they try

and jumping into school work or chores. The last three minutes before bed are also critical because this is when your child tries to unwind from the entire day. Using a device to do this is counter-productive. Referencing back to the blue light emissions, blue light from phones triggers the brain to think it is daytime. And it will keep your child awake.

Many of our youth today struggle with insomnia for this very reason. Before bed is a crucial time to help the brain settle. Our brains need rest in order to heal and recover for the next day. If your child is on their device all night, they are sacrificing sleep and not giving their brain ample time to recover. Ideally, the device should be put away at least 30 minutes before bed. Establish a good, positive routine for the three minutes before they go to sleep.

If you have noticed your child experiencing more anxiety lately and less sleep, look at these nine minutes of their day and see if there is room for improvement. You may be surprised how much little changes in those nine minutes can make such a massive difference in the overall mood for the day!

to process the day. Home is often their safe space to let the day’s emotions start unwinding. (It is also why your kid may be a pain to you and not a nuisance to their teacher. Home is where they feel comfortable to release these emotions they may have been storing all day.) This is a great time to step away from the phone. Please encourage your child/teen to take time to decompress a bit. To let their brain rest and settle before taking on the evening

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.

My