HELP KIDS FIGHT FLU
SO KIDS CAN DO WHAT KIDS DO.
GET the flu shot. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu shot. Influenza can be a serious illness for pregnant women and breastfeeding women. Your flu shot protects you and your baby.
WASH your hands. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
COVER your cough. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
STAY home when sick. Keep sick children at home. Teach them to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread easily this way.
October 2024
Trick-or-Treating Tips
Parents, foilow this plan for more Halloween magic and fewer meltdowns.
Pilgrimage to the Pumpkin Patch
Ideas for making the most of the day!
Our guide shares what’s going on around town and nearby. Make plans to enjoy these events!
Teens and Screens
The importance of micro-moments in your child’s life. 44
Virain (15), Jia (7), and Ishan (2), children of Vishal Nanda and Hima Devarapalli. Grandparents are Bharadwaja Devarapalli and Sulochana Duvvuru.
Virain is a 10th grader in the Pensacola High IB program. He loves to hang out with friends, still loves school, and aspires to be a doctor like his mom.
Jia loves to draw and paint. She enjoys gymnastics and tries to spend every day in the pool. When she’s not relaxing, she is a 2nd grader at PCA .
Ishan is super smart and active. At two, he already communicates like a fiveyear-old. He loves to swim like his big sis.
by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com
Quiet Parenting
I recently spent a large amount of time with one of my favorite people on earth, my 95-year-old grandmother. In her thirties, she had a tumor removed from her thyroid, and the doctor accidentally cut a nerve, which led to a tracheostomy. I have watched her place her pointer finger over her trach and speak in a quiet voice my entire life. However, it was not until a week ago that I thought about how that impacted her 30-year teaching career.
When I asked, her response was not about her; it was words of wisdom for all adults, “I immediately learned that we speak too much.” She shared that she had a little microphone and would tap on it with her finger when she needed to speak; all the children would stop and listen while she whispered out as few words as necessary. She said she started using a lot of pointing, tapping on shoulders,
visual aids, prepared activities, etc. My grandmother also noticed that when she stopped talking, the students spoke more. They were more involved and shared more information. It hurts my grandmother to talk, so she mastered the art of choosing her words carefully. I think this is the reason she is my favorite. When I was a child and teenager, she always listened to me go on and on without jumping in to tell me that my dreams or ideas were unrealistic. I learned the most about myself in my conversations with her because I often realized how ridiculous I sounded. This conversation reminded me of the book, “Quiet” by Susan Cain and how we can apply the insights and knowledge from both women to assist in parenting.
1. Talk less, move more. Do not just tell your child to do something; go and do it with them. They do not need you to lecture or repeat yourself. They need your help and presence.
2. Use visual aids. Do more than just talk. Help your children with visuals (family calendars, chore charts, etc).
3. Be prepared. Think through how to help your children learn something with more than just your words. If you want to work on kindness, take them to do kind things. Talk is cheap and easy to forget. Taking the time to do intentional lessons with your children is time-consuming but life-changing.
4. Invite everyone to come to the family meeting prepared. In “Quiet”, Cain explained that research does not support the efficacy of all group meetings. Group meetings are only successful when you ask people to come prepared with solutions to a problem. For example, “We all are spending too much time on electronics. We will meet on Thursday at 5 pm, and everyone needs to come up with some ideas to help us all set healthy limits.”
5. We do not all do well with the same lev el of noise and stimulation. Some children, just like some adults, need time and quiet to think clearly. Your child may truly not be able to answer the questions you are asking them. Try asking the questions and then setting a time to meet with them again for the answers.
Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.
Child meal sites across the Gulf Coast are offering healthy, FREE meals for children, ages 18 and younger.
Bubbles, Brews, & Bites
Join us Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 6 PM at the Bear Jones Moore Reeves Center for Math and Advanced Technology at Pensacola State College for a special event combining Science + Food to support bringing MESS Hall Science to our students and community. 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. Tickets are available online at https:// pensacolamesshall.org/bubbles-brews-and-bites/. Please contact Megan Pratt at megan.pratt@pensacolamesshall.org for information about sponsorship opportunities.
Ovation
Join us for OVATION, an extraordinary black-tie event celebrating the Pensacola Children’s Chorus, on October 11, 2024 at 6:00pm. Step into the historic Pensacola Saenger Theatre for an evening of unprecedented access, live music, and an elegant menu. Your experience begins with a cocktail hour with live music in the lobby, followed by a special one-night only performance in the theater, and gourmet food and cocktails served on the stage. Venture backstage to discover the hidden corners of this landmark, experiencing the theater from a perspective few ever will. All proceeds will benefit the Tuition Assistance Fund, supporting our vision of making the arts affordable and accessible to every aspiring young artist. For more information, visit PensacolaSings.org/ovation.
Fenner Ride 2024
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, along with the West Florida Wheelmen Bicycle Club, present the annual Fenner Ride on October 26, 2024. 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 will have the opportunity to choose the course that best fits their skill level: 18, 42, 62, or 100 miles. The Fenner Ride will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. Please visit https://www.bikesignup.com/Race/FL/Milton/FennerRide for more information.
Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show at NAS Pensacola
NAS Pensacola is pleased to announce the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 1-2, 2024. The NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of Pensacola’s largest events, attracting 150,000-180,000 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. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own seating, OR paid seating is available for purchase. This year we are celebrating the 55th Anniversary of the Lunar Landing. Please visit https:// www.naspensacolaairshow.org/ for more information.
Seville Rotary Steak Cook-Off
Join us for the 12th Annual Seville Rotary Steak Cook-Off, an evening of culinary excellence and community spirit, proudly presented by Winn-Dixie. This beloved event brings together 20 teams of passionate grill masters, each vying for the coveted title of Best Steak in Pensacola. Seville Rotary Club each year has the Annual Steak Cook-Off - a steak cooking competition for the pride and bragging rights. Join us for steak tasting and have a great time on Friday, October 11, 2024, at Seville Quarter. Manna Food Pantries, Gulf Coast Kid’s House, Ready Kids, Children’s Home Society & Arc Gateway will be our ticket beneficiaries this year. Get your tickets today! $40 in advance $50 at the door. Please visit https://www.sevillerotary. com/steak for more information.
Breeze-O-Ween
Join us on Sunday, October 13th, from 5PM to 8PM, outside the Gulf Breeze Community Center at 800 Shoreline Drive for BreezeO-Ween. Come enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, treats and so much more. Costumes encouraged. It’s going to be a night full of frightful fun.
4th Annual BrunchFEST
The 4th Annual BrunchFest benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is on October 27th, 2024. Meet us at Seville Quarter for a morning filled with mouth-watering 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/2024-brunchfest-pensacola-fl/.
Barktoberfest
The Pensacola Humane Society is celebrating 81 years of improving the lives of cats and dogs throughout the greater Pensacola area. We are excited to announce BARKTOBERBEST 2024 will be held Sunday, October 27th from 10 am to 4 pm in Seville Square. Join 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 the Pensacola Humane Society. Visit us at https://pensacolahumane.org/barktoberfest/ for more information.
Pensacola Habitat for Humanity’s Annual Gala
Join us for the 4th Annual Gala, “There’s No Place Like Home,” at The Sanctuary, on November 14th, 2024, at 4pm in downtown Pensacola. This special event will feature a cocktail hour for mingling with like-minded organizations and community stakeholders. Enjoy great food and drink, silent and live auctions, live entertainment, and more. Be inspired by stories from families impacted by Pensacola Habitat for Humanity’s mission. Visit https://pensacolahabitat.org/gala.
Beach-O-Ween
Get ready for a spooky good time at the 6th annual Beach-O-Ween. Join us at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk on Friday, October 18th, from 4-8 p.m. There will be many fun activities for kids of all ages, including a costume contest, games, face painting, hot dogs, and more! Best of all, all games and activities are entirely free, and there will be plenty of candy to go around.
Boo at the Zoo Returns To Gulf Breeze Zoo
Step into the spellbinding of autumn as Boo at the Zoo returns to the Gulf Breeze Zoo for another year of family fun for gulf coast residents with activities for all ages. Boo at the Zoo offers families a safe atmosphere to trick-ortreat while enjoying festive Halloween decorations in the wild and not-so-spooky setting of the Zoo.
Boo at the Zoo begins Saturday, October 12 and will run each weekend through Sunday, October 27. The Zoo will be decked out for Halloween fun complete with bounces houses, face painting and, of course, our Ambassador Animal Headquarters. Explore our trick-or-treat trail featuring more than 50 vendors with candy, treats and toys. Some vendors will also be offering holiday gift-shopping opportunities. Stroll around and see how creative our keepers get with decorations. Don’t forget your trick-or-treat bag!
Guests are invited to grab their best costumes and enjoy the season’s festivities. Costumes for all ages are encouraged but not required. We ask that all costumes are appropriate for small children and are delightful, not frightful. The Zoo will be brimming with festive displays and spook-tacular trick-or-treating for this special ticketed event and guests of all ages are invited to dress up in creative costumes.
Boo at the Zoo weekend dates: October 12 and 13, 19 and 20, 26 and 27. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last admission at 4 p.m. There is no admission before 10 a.m. Tickets: $10 for members and $20.95 - $27.95 for regular admission. Safari Express Train Rides included. Please visit https://www.gbzoo.com/event/boo-at-the-zoo for more information or call 866.620.1825.
Blue Trees Events
The University of West Florida Historic Trust is excited to bring environmental installation artist, Konstantin Dimopolous, to Pensacola to install his environmental call-toaction, The Blue Trees: Environmental Installation. The trees along Zaragoza Street between Tarragona and Jefferson Streets and in Museum Plaza will be transformed into a sea of blue during this Foo Foo Fest event. Because there are no naturally occurring blue trees, this installation draws attention to global deforestation and the need to protect our natural resources. Please visit https://historicpensacola.org/ plan-your-visit/calendar-of-events/bluetrees/ for more information.
Scholarships Presented at School Board Meeting
At a recent School Board Meeting we welcomed Michelle Hill, program Director from ABC Group and Elizabeth Graham, P.E. (professional engineer) with the Florida Department of Transportation. These two individuals were instrumental in providing an amazing opportunity for our high school juniors and seniors to participate in the Northwest Florida Construction Career Day last April. There were students from every high school participating in the all-day event. Some of our Board Members have also attended this event. Ms. Hill and Ms. Graham presented scholarship awards to the recent high school graduates who participated in the event. Twelve students have been awarded $2,000 each, and five students will receive $500 each, totaling $26,500.
Volunteers Pack Tools for Teachers
Twelve volunteers from Members First Credit Union and several from Navy Federal Credit Union volunteered their time packing Tools for Teachers. Donations are also greatly needed to fund this project to give free classroom supplies to all teachers in Escambia County.
Pensacola Catholic High School Rally Club Gives Donation
The Rally Club of Pensacola Catholic High School is a student-led organization that works closely with the Rally Foundation affiliated with the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital to raise money and awareness to help win the fight against childhood cancer. During halftime of the first home Crusader football game, the club invited ‘Rally Families’ who have a family member who has survived childhood cancer to celebrate in a small program that educated fans about the local efforts at the Children’s Hospital. The club then took donations via a QR code and passed their ‘Rally for Change’ buckets through the stands to collect the extra change from Crusader and Navarre fans in attendance. As a result, of their efforts, they were recently able to present the Rally Foundation with a donation of $1,000 that will be spent locally to support childhood cancer research.
Chess at Redeemer
At Redeemer Lutheran, chess isn’t just for older students - even our kindergarteners are getting in on the action. By learning chess, these young students are having fun while also developing crucial skills like visual memory, attention span, and spatial reasoning. Learning is always more enjoyable when games are involved.
New State-of-the-Art Building at Tate
Families, students, teachers, district staff and alumni turned out in August for the ribbon cutting ceremony for Tate’s new state-of-the-art Agriscience Building.
Aletheia Christian Offers
Several AP Courses
Aletheia Christian offers several AP courses for its Upper School students, including AP English Language, AP Literature and Composition, AP Calculus, and AP Computer Science. Students in Mrs. Everett’s AP Language class last year had a 100% passage rate, far above the national average of 56%. She and her students celebrated this past summer with a trip to Wild Honey for some frozen yogurt.
Redeemer’s New Library
The Redeemer Library has set sail on its maiden voyage. Its first destination? Wherever the students’ imaginations lead. Redeemer is thrilled to welcome this dedicated library, brimming with stories and knowledge. They are equally fortunate to have a librarian guiding students in book selection and leading captivating storytimes. Redeemer’s young readers are poised for adventure, as books unlock worlds beyond their wildest dreams.
Music and Movement Classes for Young Children, Ages 0-7
Aletheia Christian’s Activity Period
Aletheia Christian’s Upper School students have an ‘activity period’ added to their schedules every Wednesday. Each quarter, students can choose from different enrichment activities like Self-Defense, Investments, Worship Team, STEM, Book Club, Crocheting, Yearbook, Drama, and more. Students love the break in the day and the ability to choose activities based on their interests.
East Hill Christian School Back-to-School Spiritual Life Retreat
East Hill Christian School enjoyed its back-to-school Spiritual Life Retreat last month. In an effort to continue the positive, Christ-centered culture at EHCS, students K-12 enjoyed time outside of the classroom on campus and at Camp Baldwin in Elberta, Alabama to set the vision for the upcoming school year and build deeper relationships among all students. Students and faculty had a wonderful time enjoying games, worship and devotional times, ropes courses, bonfires, and more together! Students throughout the upper and lower schools were sorted into Houses that are representative of an attribute of God. These Houses will encourage one another throughout the entirety of the school year to strive for excellence in and outside of the classroom. It is going to be a great year at EHCS!
Pensacola Catholic High School Celebrates Our Grandparents
Each year on the first Sunday in September after Labor Day our nation celebrates Grandparents Day and, in keeping with the theme of honoring our heritage and the essential members of our families, the Catholic High community gathered for our Annual Grandparents’s Mass on Friday, September 6. All CHS grandparents are invited to this special occasion. This year’s Mass was presided over by Bishop William Wack and we were delighted to have a record crowd. Various students who had grandparents in attendance participated as Lectors, Music Ministers, Eucharistic Ministers, Gift Bearers, etc. Following the Mass, a reception was held for grandparents and their grandchildren. Catholic High looks forward to this special event each year at which we honor our students’ wonderful grandparents.
Friday Fun at Montessori School of Pensacola
It has become a tradition at Montessori School of Pensacola on early dismissal Fridays to have a Fun Day. On these days, students and teachers are invited to dress up in a fun theme. The first Fun Day Friday of the 2024-25 school year, was Animal Day. This year, there was such a variety of animals represented by staff and students. Everything from dinosaurs to cats, and axolotls to bats. An optional part of this Fun Day, was to bring in donations for the local animal shelter. Items donated included food and toys.
Aletheia Christian is Growing
Aletheia Christian is growing. With a high school building almost complete and record admissions, Aletheia opened its doors to more students and staff than ever before when school started on August 1st. Students adjusted well to the early start to the year knowing they would be rewarded with a “Fall Break” in October that most schools do not get. It’s great to be an Aletheia Lion!
CLA’s Topping Off Ceremony
As students return to Creative Learning Academy this fall, the campus is filled with anticipation for a new school year with the promise of an exciting future for 2025. This year marks a significant milestone for CLA, as our new Middle School building is underway, showcasing CLA’s commitment to providing an innovative, collaborative and enriching educational environment for current and upcoming generations of students. The highlight of our first month back was the much-anticipated “Topping Off” ceremony, which allowed for all current students to sign the beam”. This final construction beam was lowered to allow students, staff, and faculty to leave their mark—literally—on our school’s future by signing the beams that will become a permanent and visible part of the new structure. This tradition not only symbolizes the growth and expansion of our school but also the collaborative spirit of legacy and community that drives CLA’s mission. As students settle back into their routines, the construction site serves as a daily reminder of the exciting changes to come. This fall, CLA is not just welcoming students back to school; it is laying the foundation for the school’s future, building together, one beam at a time.
Please send school news and photos by the 15th of the month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.
Local Ice Dancers Ranked Top 10 in Eastern Region
Greater Pensacola Figure Skating Club Associate Members Houston and Cameron Konetzki of Gulf Breeze finished their competitive Solo Ice Dance season with top 10 Eastern Region rankings. Participating in U.S. Figure Skating’s Solo Dance Series, which runs from March to September, the brothers recently competed at the Denver Invitational in Highlands Ranch, CO; Picken Classic in Reston, VA; Paradise Classic in Estero, FL; Chesapeake Open in Laurel, MD; Orange Blossom Open in Clearwater, FL; and Copper Cup Dance in Salt Lake City, UT.
At the Juvenile Combined level, which consists of a Ten Fox Pattern Dance and Free Dance, Houston was ranked 9th in the Eastern region and Cameron was ranked 10th. Cameron also competed in the Bronze Pattern Dance category, which included a Ten Fox and Willow Waltz Variation. Cameron ended the season ranked 8th in the Eastern Region. Houston also competed in the Pre-Silver Pattern Dance category, which included a FourteenStep and European Waltz Variation, and ended the season ranked 5th in the Eastern Region.
Houston qualified for the National Solo Dance Finals which are being held in Wesley Chapel, Florida this weekend. The top 6 ice dancers from the Eastern, Midwest, and Pacific regions in each of the 20 different categories will be in attendance.
The brothers are coached by Vitaliy and Katrina Shalin of The Dance Edge in Ashburn, Virginia and CG Lee in Kissimmee, Florida. They travel to train with their coaches in both of these locations at least once a month throughout the year, and more frequently in Pensacola’s “off-season.”
Pictured: Houston Konetzki (blue/white top) and Cameron Konetzki (black/white top)
Take Stock in Children Announces Students
Selected for Scholarship
Take Stock in Children of Escambia County recently welcomed 40 new scholars at the annual Take Stock Kickoff Dinner. There are now 166 students in grades 7-12 in Escambia County’s program. Students will receive a college scholarship upon high school graduation as long as they maintain good grades, attendance and citizenship, remain crime and drug free, and meet weekly with a volunteer community mentor.
Take Stock in Children is a statewide nonprofit organization operating locally under the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation. Take Stock provides “scholarships, mentors & hope” to deserving young people selected at the end of their 6th or 7th grade year through a need-based application process. Scholarship donations from local foundations, organizations, businesses and individuals are matched dollar-for-dollar when scholarships are purchased from Florida Prepaid College Foundation each year and are held until students graduate from high school.
The new students were selected from the following schools:
Bailey Middle – Catalia Molina, Emma Willits Bellview Middle – Daniel Finley Beulah Middle – Crystal Gutierrez, Azaleah Ramos
Brown Barge Middle – Jade Bardoo, Ameria Jordan, Faith Lawson, Janiyah Roberson Dixon School of Art & Science –Helen Cummings, Naomi Cummings, Amaya Hooper, Zalayvia Jones
Ernest Ward Middle – Amanuel Dubose Jr., Logan McClurg, Nevaeh Tidd
Ferry Pass Middle – Jordan Bain, Thomas Bain, Harmony Farrington, William Jemison, Sophia Palmer, Sariyah Washington
Florida Virtual School –Kydriah Badilishamwalimu Montessori School – Reed Erb Ransom Middle – Kaylynn Grzejka, Desiree Hicks, Abbie Huynh, Khale Moorer
Warrington Prep – Billy Dorsey, Dumarian Hawkins, Logan Kerr, Christian Rivera Jr., Tevin Robinson, James Smith, Arhianna Watts-Riley, Ja’Nae White
Workman Middle – Journey English, Harmoni Epps, Mahayla Epps, Trinity Marvray
2025-2026 School Choice
Visit: https://escambiaschools.org/enrollment_services
Application window is from October 28 to December 6, 2024
Escambia County Public Schools (ECPS) currently offers 60 career academies and several career programs throughout seven middle schools and seven high schools, as well as an International Baccalaureate program at Pensacola High School.
To learn more about the academies go the ECPS Workforce Education Department's webpage at: https://www.escambiaschools.org/career
To find out more about the application go to: https://www.escambiaschools.org/enrollment_services
To learn about the IB program at Pensacola High School go to: https://www.escambiaschools.org/domain/1423
The ECPS Enrollment Services office can be reached at (850) 469-5580.
We’re All In
United for Every Student to Succeed
ECPS's Middle School
Career and Technical Education Academies
Jim C. Bailey Middle School
4110 Bauer Rd, Pensacola, FL 32506
850-492-6136
https://www.escambiaschools.org/jbms
Culinary Arts
Information Technology
Bellview Middle School
6201 Mobile Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32526
850-941-6080
https://www.escambiaschools.org/bms
Cyber-IT
Beulah Middle School
6001 W. Nine Mile Rd, Pensacola, FL 32526
850-316-3800
https://www.escambiaschools.org/beulahms
Agriscience Technology
Culinary Arts
Digital Discoveries
Pre-Engineering
Veterinary Assisting
Ernest Ward Middle School
7650 Hwy 97, Walnut Hill, FL 32568 850-327-4238
https://www.escambiaschools.org/ewms
Culinary Arts
Fabrication & Engineering
Graphic Arts
Ferry Pass Middle School
8355 Yancy Ave, Pensacola, FL 32514
850-494-5650
https://www.escambiaschools.org/fpms
Digital Discoveries
Ransom Middle School
1000 W. Kingsfield Rd, Cantonment, FL 32533
850-937-2220
https://www.escambiaschools.org/rms Digital Discoveries
Workman Middle School
6299 Lanier Dr, Pensacola, FL 32504
850-494-5665
https://www.escambiaschools.org/jhwms
Introduction to Manufacturing
Multimedia
ECPS's High School Career and Technical Education Academies
Escambia High School
1310 N 65th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32506
850-453-3221
https://www.escambiaschools.org/ehs
Culinary Arts
Engineering
Escambia County Criminal Justice
Financial Services
Multimedia Communications
NFA-ACE Flight
Northview High School
4100 W Hwy 4, Bratt, FL 32535
850-761-6000
https://www.escambiaschools.org/nhs
AgriTech
Culinary Arts
Graphic Arts
Skilled Trades
Pensacola High School
500 W. Maxwell St, Pensacola, FL 32501
850-595-1500
https://www.escambiaschools.org/phs
Culinary Arts
Health Professions
Skilled Trades
Sports Medicine
Dual Enrollment Welding Program (GSTC)
Pine Forest High School
2500 Longleaf Dr, Pensacola, FL 32526
850-941-6150
https://www.escambiaschools.org/pfhs
Culinary Arts
Cybersecurity
Escambia County Fire Fighter
Home Builders Association of West Florida Green Construction Trades
New Media (Digital Video)
J.M. Tate High School
1771 Tate Rd, Cantonment, FL 32533
850-937-2300
https://www.escambiaschools.org/ths
Agriscience
Education Pathway
Game Simulation & Animation
Health Science
Multimedia (TV Production)
Veterinary Science
Academy Enrollment Application Open: October 28- December 6, 2024
Application and additional information available online: https://ecsd-fl.schoolloop.com/enrollment_services
Booker T. Washington High School
6000 College Pkwy, Pensacola, FL 32503
850-475-5257
https://www.escambiaschools.org/whs
Aviation Technology
Culinary Arts
Education Pathway
Health Sciences
Marketing & Entrepreneurship
Media
Sports Medicine
West Florida High School of Advanced Technology
150 East Burgess Rd, Pensacola, FL 32503
850-876-7300
https://www.escambiaschools.org/wfhs
Academy of Critical Care &
Emergency Medicine
Academy of Information Technology
Aerospace Engineering
Agriculture
Biotechnology
Biomedical Sciences
Civil Engineering & Architecture
Cox Telecommunications
Criminal Justice Operations
Energy Academy
Multimedia Technology
Pre-Professional Nursing
Sports Medicine
Additional Resources:
George Stone Technical College Principal: Stephen Brooks 850-941-6200
https://www.escambiaschools.org/gstc
Workforce Education Department
Director: Steven Harrell 850-469-5357
https://www.escambiaschools.org/career
High School's with JROTC Programs
Escambia High School NJROTC 850-453-3221
Northview High School NJROTC 850-761-6000
Pensacola High School AFJROTC 850-595-1500
Pine Forest High School NJROTC 850-941-6150
J.M. Tate High School AJROTC 850-937-2300
Booker T. Washington High School NJROTC 850-475-5257
West Florida High School of Advanced Technology NJROTC 850-876-7300
Blisters abound, sugar levels soar, dehydration ensues, and next thing you know, what started as a fun, festive night feels more like a ghoulish nightmare. Before you turn into a witch or a warlock, remember, the key to enjoying the night is as simple as rallying the troops in advance, going over expectations, and getting prepared for anything that might go amiss.
Here are some tips from a mom who has literally been around the block a few times:
Split into age groups. Have one parent take one age group and the other parent take the other age group. Tweens like to run in packs and they move fast, so wear sneakers if you plan on keeping up with them. Toddlers and preschoolers may dawdle or tire quickly, so choose the more patient parent to accompany them. Or consider taking two shifts, one earlier in the evening for younger kids and another later in the evening for older kids, trading off who stays home to hand out candy.
Wear a backpack. Maybe it seems extreme to gear up as though you are going for an overnight hike just to walk a few blocks around the neighborhood. But the weather is fickle this time of year, and once you grab everything you need for a pleasant evening, you will be amazed by how much stuff you have to tote. And don’t be surprised if your kids shed pieces of their costumes as the excitement heats up. A shoulder bag may feel fine for the first fifteen minutes of the night, but after two-hours, you will likely wish you had brought the backpack.
healthy high-protein meals a day. Be sure to give your kids limits on how much sugar they may consume between meals. Take their candy away and dole it out if they don’t comply with your limits or can’t seem to wean themselves off the sugar roller coaster.
Practice their refrains. Commit to making the night pleasant for all.
“Trick-or-treat!” and “Thank you!” are the only things young children need to be able to say their first couple of years out. But encourage older children to be more cordial especially to the older folks in the neighborhood, who will likely opt out altogether if they are offended by enough poorly behaved kids. How about making a chorus of “Happy Halloween!” or “Have a great night!” mandatory before the kids run off to the next house?
ter, but these too may split open when stuffed. So whatever you do, don’t let the kids use your good set. Whatever they carry, stuff a few extra bags in your backpack in case you need replacements. Also carry band-aids for blisters and water for hydration.
Aim for the middle. If you are driving to another neighborhood to walk with a friend or friends, consider parking your vehicle in the middle of the neighborhood instead of on the edge or back at the friend’s house. This way, if you need to make an early exit for any reason, you’ll be that much closer to your escape car. When bringing along very young children with older children, consider a stroller or wagon. Even if the kids insist they don’t need one, they might want one later after exhaustion sets in.
Use social sense. No one likes to feel left out, so encourage your kids to invite new or shy kids who might not already be part of a group to join you. Or, if you know that you will all have a better time if it’s just you and your kids, don’t feel bad about breaking off from a group. Halloween is a great opportunity to teach kids about doing what works best for your family rather than always going along with the crowd. On the other hand, if there is a crowd you need to keep up with, now you will be ready. Happy Halloween!
Eat a high-protein dinner. ‘Tis the season for over-indulging in sugar, which means it’s more important than any other time of year to emphasize three
Be prepared. Plastic and paper bags for treats are out. They are the most likely to rip or tear. Pillowcases are bet-
Christina Katz’ favorite Halloween costume was the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz. She is proud to share that she made the costume herself.
Hugh and Sarah Kent truly work to make meals happen around the dinner table, almost every night.
“We always have all our meals at a large dinner table so that all attending can enjoy interacting with each other about their day or their needs,” said Hugh. “Scheduling each of our lives is hectic and involves us all communicating together to ensure we are all on the same page.”
Hugh has worked for the State of Florida and served in the U.S. Army, the Florida National Guard, and the Alabama National Guard over a combined 23 years, including seven combat tours. He has been an Engineer and Leadership Instructor in the U.S. Army Reserves for the past three years and has traveled and instructed at various schools across the nation. He plans to slow down and wrap up his military service within the next 18 months, so he can spend more time with his family.
Sarah has been a fully accredited Kindermusik educator and business owner since 2016. She is known in the greater Pensacola area as a developmental guru. She has practiced pediatric occupational therapy, early intervention, and infant massage instruction for over 20 years.
The Kent’s have six children but only three remain at home - Brody (17), Delaney (16), and Twila (8). The family does many unique activities together such as singing and playing music, bird watching, camping, attending church and worshiping together, and gardening.
“Sarah and I enjoy cooking together, equally viewing it as time being spent together,” Hugh shared. “The older kids enjoy cooking and have taken over a night a week to cook entirely themselves for the family. That usually is Street Taco Tuesday. They also clean up afterward as one of their family chores.”
The Asian-Inspired Pork Chops the Kents are sharing with us are at the top of the list when it comes to family favorites.
“This recipe originally was conceived as an easy prep ahead, take-a-long, quickcook meal for the first evening of a camping trip and we have since incorporated it into one of our regular household meals,” said Hugh. “It has a sense of fall and winter and is a great relief sign of the end to the sweltering summer.”
Asian Inspired Pork Chops with Wild Rice
Pork Chop Ingredients:
• 3 lbs. boneless or bone-in Pork Chops
• ¼ cup Asian Zing Wing Sauce
• 1 Tsp Kingsford Sweet + Salty Seasoning
• 1 Tsp Garlic Butter Seasoning powder
Wild Rice Ingredients:
• 1 Cup Rice Select Royal Blend (Texmati, Brown, Red, and Wild Rice)
• 1 Cup Chicken Broth
• ½ Cup Water
• ½ Tbsp Garlic Butter
Pork Chop Directions:
1. Season with the Sweet + Salty Seasoning and Garlic Butter seasoning powder.
2. Add the seasoned pork chops and Asian Zing sauce to a large Ziplock bag and marinate for 30 minutes.
3. While the pork chops are marinating, prepare your grill.
4. When the grill is preheated, place the chops on the grill and cook until they are 145 degrees with a meat thermometer. Flip pork chops 2-3 times to evenly cook.
5. Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
Wild Rice Directions:
1. In a quart pan with a lid, heat chicken broth, water, and butter to a rolling boil.
2. Add the rice mixture.
3. Cover with a lid and immediately turn the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes.
4) Remove from heat. Do not remove the lid until everything else is done and you are ready to plate.
* We love to serve this dish with roasted root vegetables.
Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.
Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.
Make It An Annual
TRADITION
By Christina Katz
Every year, weeks before Halloween, we take a half-day pilgrimage to the pumpkin patch. Our local pumpkin patch is so festive that we usually go twice each season, once as a family and again with friends.
Pumpkins are bright globes of cheer against the muted shades and foreboding weather of autumn. And kids from toddlers to teens never tire of annual visits to pumpkin patches. While some keep things as simple as a roadside patch and pay station, others go all out and create a full harvest festival with animals, rides, bakeries and shops.No matter how fancy, a visit to the pumpkin patch is good for the soul. It’s an opportunity to slow down and enjoy time in nature, take in the wide-open views, and enjoy the crisp fall air in fields dotted with pumpkins in all shapes and sizes.
Here’s how to make the most of each and every trip:
Plan Ahead. Check our Fall Festivities Guide following this article, plus websites of local pumpkin patches in advance. You cannot control the weather, but you can try to visit on discount days, if your patch has
any. Expect these patches to get increasingly busy as Halloween draws near, and plan accordingly. If you must go on peak days, arrive early to beat crowds and get the best parking. Leave strollers, pets and food at home and bring plenty of cash to purchase delicious seasonal snacks like kettle corn, caramel apples and fresh doughnuts.
Bring friends. Spread your love by bringing friends to the pumpkin patch. What’s great about going back year after year is that you get to watch your children become old enough to try things they’ve looked forward to doing, like braving the haunted hay maze or driving the pedal carts. You might leave some activities behind as the years go by, like the petting zoo or the kiddy playground, and that’s okay. Just be sure to choose a patch that has age-appropriate activities for your kids and their guests. You can always visit more than one throughout the weeks long harvest season.
Make a day of it. Purchasing a full day, all-activity pass rather than individual tickets is usually the best value for your money. A petting zoo, a hay or corn maze,
hayrides, face painting, food and entertainment are all possibilities. If your children are different ages, parents can split up to find age-appropriate activities and then meet up later for a bite to eat or to hit the pumpkin patch.
Grab photos. You are unlikely to find as many photo ops anywhere as you will find at the pumpkin patch. Try getting down low in the patch and shooting upwards. Also try standing on something and shooting downward. Take shots yourself or hand your camera to a friendly passerby to capture your happy group. You are after fun shots, not perfect shots. And don’t forget candids. You can click three times per pose and edit out the duds later. If you know kids will tire out, get photos early on and then put the camera away and enjoy the day.
10 Tips for Picking a Pumpkin
1) Select pumpkins according to your needs. Is your pumpkin for cooking or for decoration? Cooking pumpkins are smaller and more solid than carving pumpkins.
2) Grab a wheelbarrow or a wagon if they are provided. This is no time for pride, which will evaporate once you get halfway out into the field.
3) If you have a wagon or wheelbarrow, pick any size pumpkins you like. But if each child will carry their pumpkin, help them select a manageable size.
4) Choose a carving pumpkin that feels firm and heavy for its size when you pick it up.
5) Choose a pumpkin that is uniformly orange and not at all green with a nice, thick stem.
6) A green stem indicates a freshly harvested pumpkin. Stems can be fragile, so do not lift or carry pumpkins by them.
7) Avoid any pumpkins with soft spots, brown spots, holes, cracks, splits, wrinkles or mold. The pumpkin shell should be uniformly hard to the touch all the way around the pumpkin. Be sure to check the bottom and the side that was on the ground.
8) Round or oval-shaped pumpkins are easier to carve and are full of seeds you can scoop out and roast.
9) Put your pumpkins on a flat surface before you bring them home to make sure they will sit pretty without rolling over. Haul in a few extra pumpkins from the patch just in case you have some rejects.
10) Newer varieties of decorative pumpkins have a range of colors, shapes and warts. When unsure about quality, have a salesperson inspect your selections before you pay.
Perfect Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
As everyone is carving pumpkins, offer a large bowl or pot for pumpkin pulp. When the bowl is half full, loosen the seeds with your hands and fill pot to the three-quarters mark with water. The seeds will rise to the top. Squeeze them through your fingers to remove any clinging pulp as you transfer them to a colander to rinse again. Then spread them on paper towels and pat dry.
Set your oven for 325 degrees and transfer seeds to cookie sheets in single layers. Sprinkle each pan of seeds with a tablespoon of olive oil and a few shakes of salt. Turn seeds with spatula every eight minutes until crispy on the outside and golden on the inside. Estimated roasting time is 20-30 minutes but do not let seeds turn brown. Remove roasted seeds from oven, cool and enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two months.
AND
September 28 - November 3
Sweet Season Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
Sweet Seasons Farms 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 (TBD) (850) 675-3573 info@sweetseasonfarms.com www.sweetseasonfarms.com
Now through November 3
Holland Farm Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
Holland Farm 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 hollandfarms@gmail.com www.hollandfarmsonline.com
October 2024
The Original Pumpkin Patch at St. Mark United Methodist Church St. Mark United Methodist Church 2203 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503 Pumpkin Patch will open mid-October 2024. 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 info@stmarkpensacola.com www.stmarkpensacola.com
October 2 - 31
Christ Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch
5983 Dogwood Drive Milton, FL 32570
The Pumpkin Patch opens October 2th and will be open everyday from 11am -7pm the entire month of October.Weekends will have free hayrides (850) 623-8820 www.christmethodistmilton.org
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 4-5
First City Art Center’s
18th Annual Pumpkin Patch
ad on page 33
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 4th, 5pm-8pm ; Saturday October 5th, 10am-2pm (850) 429-1222 info@firstcityart.org www.firstcityart.org
October 4, 8, 11, 22, 24
Sensory-Friendly Art: Spooky Ghost Various Library Locations Sensory-Friendly Art: Spooky Ghost: October 4- 4:00 PM at the Bellview Library, October 8- 4:00 PM at the Pensacola Library, October 11-4:00 PM at the Tryon Library, October 22- 4:00 PM at the Southwest Library, October 24-3:00 PM at the Molino Library www.mywfpl.com
October 5
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 and FREE activities like bounce houses, games, and more! 11am-3pm. www.campuschurch.com
Pumpkins and Praise - Lutheran Church of the Resurrection
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection 6305 North Blue Angel Parkway Pensacola, FL 32526
Join us for games, crafts, hayride, pumpkin patch, an animal exhibit, food and more! Free admission. 10am-1pm. (850) 944-3777 www.resluthpns.com
Oktoberfest at OWA
OWA 1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535
Join us for Oktoberfest featuring German-inspired fun, games, and entertainment throughout
Downtown OWA. 8a.m.–Foley Sisters Cities 5K, Noon–Family Fun activities. Kinder Garden Kids Zone, with free inflatables, face painting and glitter tattoos, and continues with family-friendly games and activities and concludes with a Dachshund Derby. 5:30pm.-Wrap up the day enjoying live music by The Brats. www.visitowa.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. The event also features a photo booth set up, dog training demonstrations and a foam-ball pit for the pups to play in. (850) 438-4015 www.nwflgdr.com
The West Florida Railroad Museum
“Depot Days”
The West Florida Railroad Museum 5003 Henry St Milton, FL 32570
‘Depot Days’ 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. 10:00am-3:00pm (850) 501-6249 conductor@wfrm.org www.wfrm.org/
October 5-6
Pensacon HalloweenFest
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 6-31
Pumpkin Patch - FBC Beulah
First Baptist Church Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526
Our Annual Pumpkin Patch will begin on Sunday, October 6 at 12pm and run through October 31 at 5pm. (850) 542-6551 www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org
Pumpkin Patch - First Baptist of Beulah
First Baptist Church of Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526
First Baptist Church of Beulah’s pumpkin patch fundraiser-classic and unique pumpkins are avail able 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 www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org
October 6-October 31
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: Mon day-Friday 2:00pm-6:00pm, Saturday-10:00am6:00pm, Sunday-12:00pm-6:00pm (850) 456-4828 www.crossviewpensacola.org
October 8
Haunted House w/LED Lamps
Tryon Library 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL 32504
Join us for a haunted house with LED lights. 3:30pm www.mywfpl.com
October 9
Glow Stick Ghosts
Bellview Library 6425 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL 32526
Join us to make glow stick ghosts. 4:00pm www.mywfpl.com
October 11 & 12
Festa Italiana
Fountain Park 300 E. Zaragoza St. Pensacola, FL 32501
Join us for a vibrant two-day event from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Fountain Park. This year’s Festa Italiana promises an unforgettable experience with many activities and attractions, including Culinary Delights, Art and Culinary Demonstrations, Family Fun, Music, Silent Auction and more. www.visitpensacola.com/events/festa-italiana/
Spirits of the Simpson House Tour
4755 Anna Simpson Road Milton, FL 32583
Join us for a spooky evening of history and haunt ings at the Arcadia Homestead site at 4755 Anna Simpson Road in Milton. Guests will be given a guided tour of the historic Simpson House to learn more about the Simpson family and life in the 1930’s. This event is limited to 10 people each tour. Times: 6:30pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm. Cost: $15/ adults; $10/children 12 and under 850-595-5985 www.historicpensacola.org/planyour-visit/haunted-happenings
October 12
Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival
Bayview Park Pensacola, FL 32503
This annual event offers family fun for competitions and spectators. A great team building and com munity event. The event also hosts arts and craft vendors, regional food vendors, music and children activities ....something for everyone, 8am-5pm (850) 572-5849 pensacoladragonboatfestival.com
Cokesbury StoryTime in the Pumpkin Patch
Cokesbury United Methodist Church 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 pump kins will also be available. Come and go between 9 am and 11 am. (850) 476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com
Holley-Navarre Fire District Open House
Holley-Navarre Fire District 8618 Esplanade Street Navarre, FL 32566
Fire prevention week open house-meet your firefighters, spray a firehouse, safety tips, live demonstrations, bounce house, pizza, icecream. 10:00am-1:00pm.
www.hnfd.org/hnfds-annual-open-house-1
Milton’s Blackwater Food Truck Fest
Jernigan’s Landing 5158 Willing Street Milton, FL 32570
Join us from 11am-6pm for food trucks, vendors, live DJ and bounce house. www.apexshowsandevents.com
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, music and more! Free admission all day to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. 10am-2pm. (850) 684-3347 www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org/
Taste of the Beach
Pensacola Beach 7 Casino Beach Boardwalk Pensacola, FL 32561
The day is filled with many restaurants’ signature dishes for $10 each, live music, a dance performance, a chef demonstration, cooking classes for kids, crab racing and more - all along Pensacola Beach. 10am-4pm www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/tob/
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 & Door Prizes (850) 476-1378 www.facebook.com/PineForestAG
Pinelands Nursery Fall Festival
Pinelands Nursery 8365 Highway 90 Milton, FL 32570
Enjoy FREE snow cones, popcorn, and a day packed with excitement: bounce house, face painting, food trucks, and more! Open to all, entry is FREE. Let’s make unforgettable memories together. 11am-1pm www.pinelandsFL.com
October 12-31
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 11am - 7pm. Pumpkins are arriving on October 12. (850) 477-3145 www.stluke-umc.org
October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
Boo at the Zoo ad on page 3
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. 10am5pm. 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! (850) 932-2229 www.GBZoo.com
October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27, 31
Halloween at OWA
OWA 1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535
Celebrate Halloween every Saturday and Sunday in October (Oct. 12-27 and Oct. 31) with events and activities designed to enchant both children and adults with a variety of spooky activities, costumes, and entertainment. (251) 923-2111 www.visitowa.com
October 13
Party on Palafox
First Baptist Church of Pensacola 500 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL 32501
Join us for our fall festival, Party on Palafox, at 4 p.m. for an incredible evening with our community. There will be music, free dinner, food trucks, ice cream, vendors, inflatables, and all things fall. (850) 433-5631 www.fbcp.org
Breeze-O-Ween
800 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
Come enjoy costume contest, music, vendors, trick-or-treat stations, face painting stations, interactive storytelling sessions, food, pumpkin carving and much more. 5:00PM– 8:00PM www.gulfbreezeparksandrecreation.com
October 17-October 27
Pensacola Interstate Fair
6655 West Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL 32526
Enjoy over 60 rides, top-name entertainers, loads of entertaining and educational exhibits, and food galore, there is always something new to see and do at the Fair!
(850) 944-4500 www.pensacolafair.com
October 18
Arcadia Mill Boo on the Boardwalk
Arcadia Mill 5709 Mill Pond Ln Milton, FL 32583
Join us for a spooky self guided boardwalk tour by lantern light. Interact with ghosts of Arcadia’s past along the Arcadia Mill Boardwalk. This event is limited to 25 people each tour. The tour will be an historical lantern tour with added ghost stories unique to Arcadia. Times: 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm. Cost: $10/adults; $8/children 12 and under. 850-595-5985 www.historicpensacola.org/planyour-visit/haunted-happenings
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! 5:00pm-9:00pm www.gallerynightpensacola.org
Spooky Oobleck
Tryon Library 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL
Spooky Oobleck at 3:30pm www.mywfpl.com
October 19
Berryhill Afterschool & Summer Camp Fall Festival
ad on page 21
5900 Berryhill Road Milton, FLFree fun for all ages, 11:00am - 1:00pm. Costumes are welcome! Activities include a photo booth, rock wall, games,
raffle, crafts, cake walk, and more! (not affiliated with Santa Rosa Schools) (850) 5641227 www.berryhillchildcare.com
Doggy Trunk or Treat
Coastal County Brewing Company
3041 East Olive Road Pensacola, FL 32514
Bring your dog trick or treating with our vendors, enjoy some delicious food and drinks, and compete in our costume contest for a prize. 5pm (850) 741-2973
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, crafts, food trucks and more. 3pm-7pm. www.emeraldcoastwildliferefuge.org
Fall Festival - FBC Beulah
First Baptist Church Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526
Join us for our fall festival from 4pm-6pm. Enjoy games, prizes, dinner and candy. (850) 542-6551 bcsfestival20@gmail.com www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org
Fall Festival-First Baptist Church of Beulah
First Baptist Church of Beulah 5805 Beulah Church Road Pensacola, FL 32526
Join us for free fall fun - enjoy games, candy, food, and prizes. Pumpkin patch will be open with pumpkins for purchase! 4pm-6pm (850) 375-1366 www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org
Boo Fest
Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507
Join us for Boo Fest a free childrens event with games, prizes, contests and more. 12pm-2pm www.florabama.com/daily-events
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, bounce house, costume contest, candy, food, and more. 4:00pm-8:00pm (800) 635-4803 www.visitpensacolabeach.com
Healthy Halloween Party
Sacred Heart Hospital Medical Office Building Dudley Greenhut Auditorium 5151 North Ninth Ave. Pensacola, FLJoin 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 1pm-4pm. (850) 436-5195 www.pensacola.jl.org
October 19, 25, and 26
34th Annual Haunted House Walking and Trolley Tours
Historic Pensacola Pensacola, FL 32502
Join us for our annual haunted house walking and trolley tours through Historic Pensacola. Tours are limited to 25 people and will meet in designated locations. See our Haunted Happenings page for tour types and prices. Times: 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 8:30pm. (850) 595-5985 www.historicpensacola.org/planyour-visit/haunted-happenings
October 20
Great Bowls of Fire Chili Taste Festival
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. 10am-5pm.
www.apexshowsandevents.com
October 23
Creepy Magnetic Slime
Southwest Library 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL 32507
Join us in making creepy magnetic slime. 4:00pm www.mywfpl.com
October 25
Gull Point’s Halloween Trunk or Treat and Haunted Hallway
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! All Ages. Cost: Free. 4:30 - 6:30pm www.playpensacola.com
First City Bowl Halloween Spectacular
Blue Wahoo Stadium 351 West Cedar Street Pensacola, FL 32502
On Friday, October 25, the West Florida Jaguars host the Pensacola Tigers in the second annual First City Bowl at Blue Wahoos Stadium! Arrive
October 24
St. Ann’s Trunk or Treat ad on page 7
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
Edible Monster Slime
Pensacola Library 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL 32502
Join us as we make edible monster slime. 4:00pm www.mywfpl.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, gamess, and more. So come on out and see some awesome decorated jeeps and enjoy some delicious candy! 6pm www.allevents.in/pensacola/2nd-annual-trunk-ortreat/200026869920450
early for Halloween trick-or-treat 5:30pm-6:30pm, and stick around after the game for fireworks. www.milb.com/pensacola/
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, Monsters, Inc. All movies will start at sunset.
www.visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand/
October 26
Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee ad on page 11
Bellingrath Gardens 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL 36582
Halloween-themed fun for all ages. Enjoy trick-ortreating stations, costume contests, spooky crafts, fun games, interactive activities and more. End the night with a screening of “Hocus Pocus” at 6:30pm. Time: 3:00pm-8:00pm. (251) 973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org
Spooktacular: A Low Sensory Halloween Party
ad on page 8
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 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! $10 tickets for participating kids and visitors on the spectrum, accompanying adults or caretakers are free. Tickets are available for sale online at: pensacolamuseum.org.
(850) 432-6247 crhea@uwf.edu www.pensacolamuseum.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
Christ Methodist Church Pumpkin
Patch Trunk or Treat
Christ Methodist Church
5983 Dogwood Drive Milton, FL 32570
Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 26th from 5-7pm. Also there will be a chili and soup cook off. Everyone is invited. (850) 623-8820 www.christmethodistmilton.org
Spooky Walk
Molino Library 6450-A Highway 95A
Molino, FL 32577
Join us for a spooky walk at 4:00pm. www.mywfpl.com
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. (850) 261-2141 navarrebeachmarinesciencestation.com/
Monarch Madness
Panhandle Butterfly House 4966 Henry St Milton, FL 32570
Welcome the Monarch travelers on their way to Mexico. Exhibits, games, crafts, tours and butterfly releases. Venture into Dr. Lepidopterist’s Mad Lab and take the Monarch Madness Express for a butterfly adventure but watch out for butterfly predators. 9:00am-1:00pm www.panhandlebutterflyhouse.org
35th Annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest
Park West on Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Carving is done underwater in 1 hour or less: early registration or day of at 10am. Carving starts at 11am. After carving, meet at Dive Pros for awards,
October 27
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
prize drawings, and the big feed. (850) 456-8845 www.florida-divepros.com
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.coastlinegulfbreeze.com
Trunk or Treat at Splash City Adventures 6709 Pensacola Boulevard
Pensacola, FL 32505
Celebrate Halloween with a Trunk or Treat at Splash City Adventures on Saturday, October 26! Dress up in your Halloween Costume and bring your bag to fill with candy. Costume contest at 7:30 pm for any child dressed up. 5pm-9pm.
(850) 505-0800 www.splashcityadventures.com
AWA Farms Fall Festival
8781 State Road 89 Milton, FL 32570
Lots of animals, games, food, trick or treating, & more!! 10am-5pm, $10 per ticket with kids 4 and under free. www.awafarms.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 emeraldcoastexceptionalfamilies.org
Trunk or Treat
Friendship Baptist Church
5300 Berryhill Road Milton, FL 32570
Join us for this FREE fall event where you and your family can show off your costumes, explore themed trunks, participate in a scavenger hunt and fun fall activities, and enjoy dinner on us. 5:00pm - 7:00pm. (850) 983-2494 www.friendshipchurch.org
Barktoberfest
Seville Square Pensacola, FL 32502
Pet and family friendly festival and fundraiser. Costume Contests, Vendors, Candy, Races, Face Painting, Petting Zoo, Food Trucks and more. 10:00am - 4:00pm. (850) 466-3945 www.pensacolahumane.org
October 28–29
Hauntcert 2024: A Family-Friendly
Halloween Concert
First Presbyterian Church - Noonan Center 33 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL 32502
Pensacola Children’s Chorus presents Hauntcert. Enjoy a family-friendly Halloween concert that’s bound to enchant and delight. Performances: 6:30pm.
(850) 434-7760 pensacolasings.org/performances
October 29
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 mythologyages 5 and up. Our 7pm Spooktacular Show-ages 8 and up.
(850) 664-1261 www.ecscience.org
October 30
Cokesbury 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-7:00pm.
(850) 476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com
Trunk or Treat - Momentum Church
Navarre High School 8600 High School Blvd. Navarre, FL 32566
Join us for a fun free event with food trucks, inflatables, trunks with free candy. www.momentumchurch.org
St. Luke Trunk or Treat
1394 East Nine Mile Road Pensacola, FL 32514
Trunk or Treat will be in front of the church in the paved parking lot. 6:00pm-8:00pm. (850) 477-3145 www.stluke-umc.org
October 31
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. 4:30pm until supplies last. (850) 436-5192 www.playpensacola.com
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. 6:00pm7:30pm. Cost: Free. (850) 436-5195 www.playpensacola.com
Crossview Church Trunk or Treat 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 www.crossviewpensacola.org
Family Fall Festival
Ensley Church of the Nazarene 8300 North Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32534
A family-friendly alternative to door-to-door trickor-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
Art Themed Halloween Block Party
Pensacola Museum of Art Jefferson Street between PMA and PLT Pensacola, Fl 32502
Art Themed Halloween Block Party with live music and interactive art activities. Free. 5-8pm (850) 432-6247 www.pensacolamuseum.org
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 24, 2024. Closed Halloween. Reservations online, tickets at will call. (251) 232-2322 www.waleswest.com
October 31 - November 11 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. www.foofoofest.com
November 1-3
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. www.pensacolagreekfestival.com/
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival
Seville Square 311 East Government Street Pensacola, FL 32502
Arts, crafts, music & food. Friday & Saturday 9am5pm, Sunday 9am - 4pm. Free admission. Children’s Festival: Saturday & Sunday from 10am-4pm. www.ggaf.org
November 2
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 www.firstbaptistofbeulah.org
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 www.runsignup.com/Race/FL/ PENSACOLA/GreatPumpkinRun5Kandwalk
November 5
East Hill Makers Market Fall Into Fun
Cordova Square 1101 N. 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503
Join us for an outdoor afternoon market and enjoy shopping with 40+ local artisans, food trucks, music, photo booth, kid’s activities, and hayrides! Come shop local and meet & mingle with your neighbors from 2-5pm. Event is free and open to the public.
November 9
Navarre Food Truck Fest
Navarre Park 8513 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566
Join us from 11am-6pm for food trucks, vendors, live entertainment and bounce house. www.apexshowsandevents.com
November 10
Pensacola EggFest
Hadji Temple 800 W. Nine Mile Road Pensacola, FL 32524
Pensacola EggFest hosts barbecue 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. 12pm-3pm www.pensacolaeggfest.com
The Night on the Tracks Block Party Railroad tracks near Downtown Pensacola Pensacola, FLNight on the Tracks features a menagerie of experiences, including a Night
Market, film festival, live music, live entertainment such as puppet shows and circus acts, a sculpture installation, food trucks, and a participatory DIY street parade.
www.foofoofest.com/2024-events/night-on-the-trackspresented-by-309-punk-project/
November 16
Pensacola Fall Food Truck Festival
Community Maritime Park 301 West Main St Pensacola, FL 32501
Food Trucks, Vendors, Bounce House, Live Entertainment, Culinary Competition and more. 11:00am-7:00pm. 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. www.pensacola.makerfaire.com
November 23-24
Jubilee Renaissance Faire
Santa Rosa Fairgrounds 8700 Bobby Brown Rd Milton, FL 32583
2 days of adventure and excitement for people of all ages. Enjoy activities and performances fit for royalty, including solid lance extreme jousting, as can only be presented by the Knights of Valour. 10:00am-5:00pm www.jubileerenaissancefaire.com
Creek Fest
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, living Creek Village, guided Tours by traditionally clothed as in the early 1800’s, re-enactment of the Battle of Chumuckla between Creeks and Soldiers. 9am-6pm (833) 772-7335 www.santarosacreekband.org GPP
Ken Ginsburg, MD, the founding director of The Center for Parent and Teen Communication in Philadelphia and author of Congrats...You’re Having a Teen!: Strengthen Your Family and Raise a Good Person, says that “the major difference between the teen years and the tween years is the extra experiences that young people have. They’ve learned to stretch their wings and to succeed.” But he also says, “In addition to that, they have the ability to think differently.” In other words, as our children mature into adulthood, they form their own thoughts and opinions, which may not align with our ideas and make it more difficult for us to connect with our teens.
We want a deeper connection with our teens, but...
1) Our teens don’t have much time for us.
2) We worry that our teenagers are taking unnecessary risks.
3) Our teens pick a lot of fights with us.
Despite those challenges, experts offer advice on how we can still find closeness with our teenagers. Adolescents are moving towards becoming independent of their parents physically, emotionally, and cognitively, and yet they still need parent and family support
as much as they did when they were younger. Here are some ways experts suggest we support teens.
Breathe.
It can be really hard to stay centered and calm when our teens are determined to criticize us at every turn. Our first instinct might be to respond with anger, but Sanders says this will only cause more problems.
“There’s a phrase called ‘no action in reaction.’ If we are having a reaction to something our kids did, let’s say your child comes home late, then that’s not the time to act, because you are in a reactive mode. Don’t take any action. Instead, take a deep breath, a big pause, maybe sleep on it, and discuss it when there is a good time and you’re calmer,” Sanders says.
Be curious.
If your teenager is having trouble with following limits, like not coming home in time for curfew or letting the car run out of gas, Sanders recommends using Dr. Ross Green’s method of collaborative problem solving, where parents and kids work together to solve problems within their relationship.
Sanders offers an example of how this might work when your teen is struggling with coming home on time for a curfew:
Parent: “It seems like you’ve had a difficult time getting home at curfew. Help me understand what’s going on.”
Teenager: “Nobody starts to hang out until nine o’clock. So if I have to be home at 10 o’clock, I only get an hour with my friends.”
Parent: “Okay, that’s good information. What’s important to me is that you do get home because I’m concerned about your safety. After 10 p.m., things start to get sketchy. So I’m wondering what ideas you have so you can still hang out with your friends and make it home on time.”
Sanders explains, “It’s not just the parent dictating what the consequences are. It’s the parent and the child having their concerns put out on the table and figuring out a solution that works for everybody.”
Ginsburg agrees with Sanders. “Your ultimate goal with your teenager is to have a relationship that lasts for decades after they’ve left your house. If they are struggling to become independent and you become very controlling, they will push you away.”
He also stresses the importance of communicating that we respect them. “When we tell kids what to do based on our experience, kids are hearing the message, ‘I don’t think you’re capable of figuring this out on your own.’” Ginsburg suggests, instead, that we be curious and ask questions about how they can solve problems on their own. He reminds us, “When we ask them what they’re experiencing, and ask them what they think
is going to happen, then we give them the opportunity to think things through.”
Create rituals and routines.
Rituals and routines are a great way to connect with a teenager who is often not able to spend as much time with their parents and siblings. For example, even though my teenagers didn’t need me to walk them to the bus stop in the morning, I created a new morning routine so that I could have extra time to connect with them.
“It’s important to find those family traditions that can be carried through to when they are older so we’re able to have that connection,” Sanders says. She offers the example of her family’s annual summer camping trip, where they go screen-free because quality time together without their screens is good for developing adolescent brains and for family dynamics.
Know that you still matter to your teen.
The teen years are full of incremental moves to separate from parents. For both parties, it’s an exciting time for personal growth; yet, those moves toward separation can also be scary and stressful.
Ginsburg reminds us, “There are a lot of myths out there about adolescence. One suggests that adolescents don’t care what adults think and don’t particularly like their parents. Know that definitively and without question: You Matter to Your Teen.”
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, and many other publications. GPP
Again this year, Escambia County Public Schools earned a ‘B’ grade from the Florida Department of Education. Even with the added pressure of higher state standards, 90% of our schools upheld or exceeded past years’ grades.
13schools12schools25schools1school
SETTING THE BAR, YEAR AFTER YEAR
Cordova Park Elementary (2002-2024)
Brown Barge Middle (2002-2024)
West Florida High (2005-2024)
Source: Florida School Accountability, Florida Department of Education (fldoe.org)
Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Online Rentals, and Theatrical Releases
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
You Gotta Believe
Afraid
Astrid has never believed in her mother ’s abilities to see the dead and she doesn ’t take seriously her pleas not to repeat the name she reads on a pamphlet about a bioexorcist: Beetlejuice. After three repetitions, the Juice is on the loose and it will take cunning and effort to get him out of the land of the living. This is a totally unnecessary sequel, but, thanks to Michael Keaton, it ’s fun in a manic kind of way That said, the plot is over-stuffed, the pacing lags, and the negative content includes creepy violence, sexual innuendo, profanity, and social drinking. Photo ©Warner Bros
It’s 2002 and the Fort Worth Westside youth baseball team is thrilled to have a shot at the Little League World Series, but they’ve got big challenges. First, they are in last place in their area and have two weeks to up their game. Second, their coach (the father of one of the players) has just been diagnosed with cancer. Based on a heartwarming true story, this movie follows all the beats of an underdog sports flick. The script is sometimes unfocused, characters are a bit thin, but overall , this is a sweet, family-friendly film with minimal negative content Photo ©Well Go USA
After getting the marketing contract for a new Artifical Intelligence product named Aia, Curtis brings it home to test it out in the real world. In itial results are positive: cooperative kids and a well organized house. But then, things get scary….The idea of an evil smart home assistant has promise, but this script fails to deliver. Bad pacing and patchy writing are a drawback, and violence and a subplot involving teen sexting will concern most parents .
Few people are neutral on the subject of Ronald Wilson Reagan, 40 th President of the USA. Reagan attempts to offer a sweeping portrait of the Gipper ’s life and career, focusing primarily on his attempts to defeat Communism. Unfortunately, the movie suffers from a clumsy frame narrative involving KGB officers, rushed storytelling, and constant grimaces from lead actor Dennis Quaid. Reagan ’s life is too complex for 135 minutes and the filmmakers would have been well advised to focus on a smaller slice of his life and do it well
Tally lives in a world obsessed with beauty – so obsessed, in fact, that at age 16, everyone undergoes cosmetic surgery to become a “Pretty”. But Tally makes a friend who tells her about The Smoke, a place where people refuse surgery and live off the land. Now Tally has to decide what she really wants. Based on a YA book series, this adaptation discards complex moral themes, replacing them with watered down, shallow bromides. Negative content is fairly minor but that ’s not a good enough reason to watch the film. Read the books instead. Photo ©Netflix
Rewarding Success
Q. My wife and I are trying hard to get out of debt and start controlling our finances. We’ve always given our kids allowances in the past, but we’ve been considering putting their allowances on hold until we pay off our debt and get in better shape financially. What do you think about this idea?
A. I’m glad you two are making smart changes in your lives, but I wouldn’t stop what you’ve been doing where your kids are concerned. It can be a series of great teachable moments for them. I would, however, stop calling it an allowance. In my mind, there’s a victim mentality attached to word “allowance,” and that’s not something you want taking root in their minds.
mission” instead of an allowance. Why? Because in situations like these shouldn’t be viewed as “allowing” them something. It should be looked at—by you and by them—as rewarding success.
Kids should learn at an early age that money is connected to work. Even a kid who’s in kindergarten is old enough to begin doing some age-appropriate chores around the house. So, let’s start calling it a “com-
My wife and I did this very thing with our kids as they were growing up. Each of them had a list of chores that were expected of them each day. If they did their jobs, they got paid at the end of the week. If they didn’t, they didn’t get any money.
Some people may look at this method and call it “tough love.” But it’s really not. It’s just love. It’s something you do when you’re trying to teach your children, and guide them toward becoming independent, responsible adults.
Planning Ahead
Q. I was wondering if you recommend including future purchases, especially major purchases, into your monthly budget. If so, how far in advance should you do this?
A. When you wait until things go wrong or something breaks down, you’ll find yourself in a mess and the victim of your own poor planning. That’s why I’d start putting money aside in my budget as soon as I saw signs there would be a need for whatever item it may be.
Let’s say you’re pretty sure you’ll need a newer vehicle in a couple of years. Go ahead and start putting the money aside now. Decide on a reasonable, affordable ballpark price, then do the math to see how much you’ll have to save every month to make it happen. And if you can make it happen faster than two years? Great! And remember, this kind of stuff is a whole lot easier when you don’t have things like car loans and credit card payments hanging around your neck!
FamilyCalendar
Tuesday October 1
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. October 1 – Blind Mullets Band www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Wednesday October 2
Todd Rundgren Concert
Friday October 4
White Cane Awareness Day
8:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Bayview Senior Center, 2000 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 The purpose is to celebrate the abilities of persons who are blind or visually impaired and to emphasize the importance of the White Cane Law which requires that vehicles must stop when someone with a white cane or a service dog is crossing or attempting to cross the street. The Cane and Able “walk” with the Blind and visually impaired is at 1:30 PM. The walk is an opportunity for the Blind to demonstrate their navigation ability and for the sighted (who are willing) to be blind folded and experience what it is like to walk on the street without sight. RSVP is necessary to join us for lunch. Please RSVP Rachel Wheeler at 850.477.2663 or by email at rachel.wheeler@ibwest.org. 850-477-2663 rachel.wheeler@ibwest.org
Taste of Gulf Breeze
5:00 PM Gulf Breeze Recreation Center, Gulf Breeze, FL Taste of Gulf Breeze is a chamber hosted tasting event held every year in Gulf Breeze. Local restaurants, caterers, food trucks, bars and businesses set up vendor displays where attendees can try free, bite sized samples from each participant. www.gulfbreezechamber.com/taste-of-gulf-breeze/
First City Art Center’s 18th Annual Pumpkin Patch
5:00 PM 1060 N. Guillemard Street Pensacola, FL, 32501 Guests will have the first glance at over 4,500 handcrafted glass and ceramic pumpkins! Sales will be limited at this exclusive event. The First Pick Preview Party includes beer & wine from our friends at Pensacola Bay Brewery (21+), food trucks, live music, art demonstrations, and of course – the opportunity to be the first to purchase your pumpkins! www.firstcityart.org/
Bands on the Blackwater
7:00 PM Downtown Milton - Jernigans Landing, 5158 South Willing Street Milton, FL
https://www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater/
United Way of West Florida’s Day of Caring Join hundreds of volunteers all across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as they make a difference in our communities at local schools, non-profits, and agencies!
https://www.uwwf.org/dayofcaring
Saturday October 5
Depot Day at the West Florida Railroad Museum
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, West Florida Railroad Museum, 5003 Henry St. Milton, FL, 32570 This event will include tours of the museum, historic presentations, model train displays, and the riding kids train and garden. Food vendors plus “Snowbiz Shaved Ice” will be on site serving up delicious treats. www.wfrm.org/
First City Art Center’s 18th Annual Pumpkin Patch
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 1060 N. Guillemard Street Pensacola, FL, 32501 FCAC Annual Pumpkin Patch is a signature event for Pensacola, and is the only Pumpkin Patch benefiting non-profit First City Art Center as an important cultural asset for the community. www.firstcityart.org/
Plant-A-Palooza
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten, 208 Newman Ave Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us in celebrating the Northwest Florida plant community! Many vendors will be set up for plant sales of all kinds from 11-4 pm.
Blackwater River Music Fest
12:00 PM Jernigans Landing, 5158 Willing St Milton, FL The Blackwater River Music Fest at Jernigan’s Landing is on Saturday October 5th from Noon to 10:00 PM.
Take a Kid Fishing
1:30 PM Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, 8579 Gulf Blvd Navarre, FL, 32566 Head to the Navarre Beach Pier for a seaside delight — a kid’s fishing pole giveaway and clinic. The first 200 children under 12 will receive a free fishing pole. Complimentary bait will be provided. ***Attendees are encouraged to pre-register online if possible. takeakidfishingnavarre.com
The Awakening Tour
7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola , FL, 32502 Ignite your soul at The Awakening Tour this fall! Join us as we welcome Casting Crowns, We The Kingdom, Mac Powell, Katy Nichole, Terrian, and David Leonard for an evening that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and encouraged. www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/theawakening-tour
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Opening Night
7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Under the baton of Maestro Peter Rubardt, our 99th season commences with a pairing for star-crossed lovers — Sergei Prokofiev’s Suite from Romeo and Juliet and Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. https://pensacolasymphony.com/
Santa Rosa Island Triathlon
Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL 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. www.santarosaislandtriathlon.com/
Sunday October 6
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. www.tgcyouthmultisport.org/triathlon.html
Free Yoga in the Park
9:30 AM Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Classes are open to all ages and levels of experience. Certified instructors from Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center will provide instruction. The class is free, but you will need to BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat) and any other accessories you would like to use. Stay hydrated!
cityofpensacola.com/1024/Area-Events-and-Activities
2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s
2:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32514
Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. https://www.alz.org/events
The Oak Ridge Boys
6:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Tuesday October 8
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. October 8 – Knee Deep Band www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Thursday October 10
3rd Annual Holes Fore Hope
8:00 AM Lost Key Golf Club , 625 Lost Key Drive Pensacola, FL, 32507 Holes Fore Hope is The Centre For Excellence of Pensacola’s annual charity golf tournament that helps support the Centre’s programs and service throughout the entirety of the following year, including: Jamie’s Mom’s House, A.W.A.R.E. Initiative, Food Programs, Practical Skills Courses. http://www.centre4excellence.org
28th Annual CCA Pensacola Banquet & Auction
6:00 PM Sanders Beach Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 South I Street Pensacola, FL, 32504
An evening to gather and support Florida’s marine resources and ecosystem! Join us for dinner, drinks, raffle prizes, and auction items! www.eventbrite.com
FamilyCalendar
Friday October 11
14th Annual Festa Italiana
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Fountain Park, 300 E. Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL The Sons & Daughters of Italy in America Buona Fortuna Lodge proudly announces the 14th Annual Festa Italiana, celebrating Italian heritage, cuisine, and culture. Join us for a vibrant twoday event on Friday, October 11, 2024, and Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/festa-italiana/
12th Annual Seville
Rotary Steak Cook-Off
6:00 PM 130 E Government St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Welcome to the 12th Annual Seville
Rotary Steak Cook-Off where you can come out and enjoy delicious New York strip steak tasting provided by Winn Dixie and prepared by 20 competing teams. Each ticket holder will receive a ticket to vote for their favorite steak. Guests can also vote with dollar donations as well. (All money collected will go to charity programs.)
Ovation
6:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Step into the historic Pensacola Saenger Theatre for an evening of unprecedented access, live music, and an elegant menu. Your experience begins with a cocktail hour with live music in the lobby, followed by a special onenight only performance in the theater, and gourmet food and cocktails served on the stage. PensacolaSings.org/ovation
Big Screen on the Bayou
6:30 PM Bayview Park, Pensacola, FL Bring your blanket, chairs, family and friends to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a jumbo screen at Bayview Park overlooking the beautiful Bayou Texar near the Community Center. Arrive early to reserve your spot and enjoy pop-up vendors, movie trivia, and food truck fare! Food vendors will be open by 5pm and the movie rolls at 6:30pm.
Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
7:00 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-cinderella
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/
2024 Taste of the Beach Friday Night
VIP Trolley Dinner
Pensacola, FL Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2024 Taste of the Beach VIP Trolley Dinner. https://www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/tob/
Saturday October 12
16th Annual Run for the Reef
7:30 AM Windjammers on the Pier, 8579 Gulf Blvd Navarre, FL, 32566 Benefiting Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary – Snorkeling and Diving Reefs navarrebeachmarinesanctuary.org/run-for-the-reef-5/
Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park, Pensacola, FL Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic is a free event offered to children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities requiring
supervised care. This event is limited to the first 250 applicants (plus up to 2 additional family members/ guardians/caretakers). Pre-registration is required. This free event includes rod and reel to keep (limited to the first 250), grilled lunch w/beverages, t-shirt (limited to the first 250), optional child ID program, fish identification booklets and fishing instruction. 850-255-5178 www.seanolimits.com
LandrumHR 5K to benefit Lakeview Center
8:00 AM 219 E. Garden Street, 219 E. Garden Street. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Runners, walkers and all those passionate about mental health are invited to join the LandrumHR 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 12. The 5K starts at 8 a.m. from the LandrumHR office in downtown Pensacola, located at 219 E. Garden Street. Proceeds from the event will benefit Lakeview Center, which last year served more than 27,000 adults and children with mental illnesses, drug and alcohol dependencies, and intellectual disabilities. https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/LandrumHREveryStepCounts5KRunWalk
Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival
8:00 AM Bayou Texar by Bayview Park, 2000 E Lloyd St Pensacola, FL, 32503 On October 12TH, 2024, up to 40 teams, supported by thousands of spectators, will be competing for bragging rights in the 10TH Annual Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival. The races start at 8:00 AM on Bayou Texar, just off Bayview Park, near Downtown Pensacola. www.pensacoladragonboatfestival.com/
Taste of the Beach Festival
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Casino Beach, Gulfside Pavilion, 7 Casino Beach Blvd. Pensacola, FL, 32561 Saturday’s festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features Pensacola Beach restaurants showcasing their signature dishes, plus crab racing, kids’ cooking classes, a frozen zone, dining and hospitality tents, tshirt sales and a free concert by Horseshoe Kitty. The festival site is located at the Casino Beach Gulfside Pavilion www.visitpensacola.com/events/2024-taste-of-thebeach-festival/
14th Annual Festa Italiana
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Fountain Park, 300 E. Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL The Sons & Daughters of Italy in America Buona Fortuna Lodge proudly announces the 14th Annual Festa Italiana, celebrating Italian heritage, cuisine, and culture. Join us for a vibrant twoday event on Friday, October 11, 2024, and Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/festa-italiana/
Ballet Pensacola’s Tutus and Tiaras Tea ($25) 2:00 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 Bibbidi, Bobbidi, Boo! Enter into the magical world of Cinderella where dreams really do come true. Wear your finest gowns and suits and join us for tea and cakes and other fine treats, in the grand ballroom in the Atrium at The Center in downtown, Pensacola. Cinderella looks forward to your presence Saturday, October 12th & Saturday, October 19th from 2:00PM until 3:30PM.
www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-tutus-and-tiaras-tea
Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
7:00 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-cinderella
Black Jacket Symphony presents the Music of Elton John
8:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Black Jacket Symphony presents the music of Elton John www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Sunday October 13
Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
1:30 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-cinderella
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra in the Park 3:00 PM Museum Plaza, 120 Church Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pack a lawn chair or a blanket, and join us Sunday, October 13, at 3 p.m. for a free outdoor performance at Museum Plaza in Downtown Pensacola! This event features a small ensemble of PSO musicians. https://pensacolasymphony.com/
Tuesday October 15
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. October 15 – String Farm www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Thursday October 17
Evening for the Estuaries Gala
6:00 PM Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, 26389 Canal Road Pensacola, FL, 36561 Mark your calendars for an evening of live music, awards, drinks, hors d’oeuvres (including oysters!), a silent auction, awards, and giving back to the waters we call home. http://bit.ly/EveningForTheEstuaries2024
Bubbles, Brews, and Bites Fundraiser
6:00 PM Bear Jones Moore Reeves Center for Math and Advanced Technology at Pensacola State College, Pensacola, FL, 32504 This walk-about tasting event will spotlight local chefs and restaurants serving small-portion dishes with a side of science. pensacolamesshall.org/bubbles-brews-and-bites/
Friday October 18
Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Fest
3:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501
https://www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com/
Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
7:00 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-cinderella
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/
FamilyCalendar
PSC presents American Idiot
7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Bold, brash, and fun, “American Idiot” takes Green Day’s chart-topping 2005 punk rock album and brings it vibrantly to life. Winner of two Tony Awards, “American Idiot” boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
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 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/
Saturday October 19
Pink Pirate’s Get It Off Your Chest
Annual 5K Run
8:00 AM 8578 Gulf Blvd. Navarre, FL, 32566
Breast Cancer Awareness Run. Race starts at the Navarre Beach boat ramp parking lot. https://www.active. com/navarre-fl/running/ distance-running-races/ pink-pirates-10th-annual-get-it-off-your-chest-5k-2024
The Starfish Project’s Wing Cook-Off 11:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Navarre Park, 8513 Navarre Pkwy Navarre, FL, 32566 Come join us for our 6th Annual Wing Cook-Off Fundraiser and help us crown this year’s king/queen of the wing! You get to taste wings from many local vendors, restaurants and individuals while enjoying live music and cold beer/ drinks. We will have a kids’ zone as well, so bring the whole family! thestarfishprojectnwfl.org
Ballet Pensacola’s Tutus and Tiaras Tea ($25) 2:00 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 Bibbidi, Bobbidi, Boo! Enter into the magical world of Cinderella where dreams really do come true. Wear your finest gowns and suits and join us for tea and cakes and other fine treats, in the grand ballroom in the Atrium at The Center in downtown, Pensacola. Cinderella looks forward to your presence Saturday, October 12th & Saturday, October 19th from 2:00PM until 3:30PM. www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-tutus-and-tiaras-tea
Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Fest
2:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 https://www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com/
Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
7:00 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-cinderella
PSC presents American Idiot
7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Bold, brash, and fun, “American Idiot” takes Green Day’s chart-topping 2005 punk rock album and brings it vibrantly to life. Winner of two Tony Awards, “American Idiot” boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
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 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 20
Concerts on Canal ($20 suggested donation)
12:00 PM 14075 Canal Drive Pensacola, FL, 32502 House Concert featuring Don Middlebrook with special guest, Jesse Bumann $20 suggested donation @ the door - all proceeds go to the artist. https://info523987.wixsite.com/coc-info
Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella
1:30 PM 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 Ballet Pensacola’s Cinderella www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-cinderella
PSC presents American Idiot
2:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Bold, brash, and fun, “American Idiot” takes Green Day’s chart-topping 2005 punk rock album and brings it vibrantly to life. Winner of two Tony Awards, “American Idiot” boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
Cinemas in the Sand
Sunset Gulfside Pavilion, 1 Via de Luna Dr. Pensacola Beach, FL, 32561 All movies are free to the public and will start at sunset on a giant inflatable outdoor movie screen in front of the Gulfside Pavilion stage, weather permitting. Friday, October 25: Monsters, Inc. www.visitpensacola.com/events/cinemas-in-the-sand/
Tuesday October 22
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. October 22 – Pearl and Rafe www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Wednesday October 23
Celtic Thunder
7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Thursday October 24
The Marshall Tucker Band
8:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Friday October 25
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/
PSC presents American Idiot
7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Bold, brash, and fun, “American Idiot” takes Green Day’s chart-topping 2005 punk rock album and brings it vibrantly to life. Winner of two Tony Awards, “American Idiot” boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
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. Oct. 25: “Monsters, Inc
https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/cinemas-inthe-sand/
Saturday October 26
Fenner Ride
7:30 AM Clyde L. Gracey Community Center, 5629 Byrom Street Milton, FL, 32570 Early registration is now open, offering event giveaways, fully supported rest stops, limited SAG support, a post-ride meal, exciting prize opportunities, and a commemorative t-shirt for all participants.
https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Milton/FennerRide
Pensacola Race for Inclusion
7:45 AM Bayview Park, 2000 E Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Lace up to support Special Olympics Florida athletes. With every step you take, you help build a more inclusive world for people with intellectual disabilities. www.raceforinclusion.org
Making Strides Pensacola
8:00 AM Seville Square, 311 E Government St 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
Music for Families
3:00 PM First Baptist Church, 500 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join us for a special concert for all ages, followed by an instrument petting zoo with our musicians and a variety of hands-on activities. https://pensacolasymphony.com/
Music for Families: Peter & the Wolf
3:00 PM First Baptist Church, Pensacola, 500 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for a special event for all ages! Experience our annual Music for Families concert, featuring Peter & the Wolf, the story of a brave young boy and his lively animal friends — a bird, a duck and a cat — who are brought to life by the instruments of the orchestra. https://pensacolasymphony.com/product/music-forfamilies-2024/
A Night In Old Hollywood
6:00 PM 524 N Hayne St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Step into the glitz and glamour of “A Night In Old Hollywood,” where AMIkids Pensacola brings the magic of the silver screen to life while celebrating the potential of our youth. At AMIkids Pensacola, we believe in the power of transformation, and this unforgettable
FamilyCalendar
evening is more than just a night of elegance—it’s a chance to invest in tomorrow’s leaders. www.facebook.com/AMIkidsPensacola/
PSC presents American Idiot
7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Bold, brash, and fun, “American Idiot” takes Green Day’s chart-topping 2005 punk rock album and brings it vibrantly to life. Winner of two Tony Awards, “American Idiot” boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
Hotel California
8:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 A spirited blend of originality and the pursuit of excellence have taken Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” to a level of recognition normally reserved for Gold and Platinum recording artists. www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Sunday October 27
4th Annual BrunchFEST
11:00 AM 130 East Government Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for the 4th Annual BrunchFest benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast (BGCEC) on Sunday, October 27th in Pensacola! www.eventbrite.com
PSC presents American Idiot
2:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Bold, brash, and fun, “American Idiot” takes Green Day’s chart-topping 2005 punk rock album and brings it vibrantly to life. Winner of two Tony Awards, “American Idiot” boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
Tuesday October 29
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. . October 29 – The Lads www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach/
Straight No Chaser - Top Shelf Tour
7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Initially formed at Indiana University, a cappella group Straight No Chaser emerged at the forefront of the modern-day a cappella movement, and has since sold more than three million albums worldwide. www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Wednesday October 30
Matthew West: Don’t Stop Praying Tour
7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us on a musical journey for a night of faith, hope, and encouragement at the Don’t Stop Praying Tour with Matthew West. www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Friday November 1
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Seville Square, 311 E Government St 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
Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show
9:30 AM Naval Air Station Pensacola, 150 Hase Road Ste. A Pensacola, FL, 32508 NAS Pensacola is pleased to announce the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 1-2, 2024. The NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of Pensacola’s largest events. There is an incredible lineup of aerobatic performers and our very own Blue Angels.
https://www.blueangels.navy.mil/show/
Blue Trees Collaborations
11:00 AM Pensacola Childrens Museum, Pensacola, FL The Pensacola Children’s Museum will host these educational programs at 11:00 a.m. during Foo Foo Fest: November 1: Exhibit Exploration: Land and Sea with an emphasis on conservation https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/calendarof-events/blue-trees/
Saturday November 2
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Seville Square, 311 E Government St 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
Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show
9:30 AM Naval Air Station Pensacola, 150 Hase Road Ste. A Pensacola, FL, 32508 NAS Pensacola is pleased to announce the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 1-2, 2024. The NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of Pensacola’s largest events. There is an incredible lineup of aerobatic performers and our very own Blue Angels. https://www.blueangels.navy.mil/show/
American Style: Copland, Stephenson & Bernstein Dress Rehearsal ($10)
1:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a working dress rehearsal of the American music tradition, featuring Appalachian Spring Suite from the “Dean of American Composers” Aaron Copland. With its open and pioneering depiction of the American idyll, Appalachian Spring is beloved for its folk melodies, including the Shaker tune “Simple Gifts.” https://pensacolasymphony.com/
American Style: Copland, Stephenson & Bernstein
7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 An exploration of the American music tradition, featuring Appalachian Spring, Bernstein’s Serenade (after Plato’s Symposium), and contemporary composer Jim Stephenson’s Second Symphony, “Voices”. https://pensacolasymphony.com/
Sunday November 3
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Seville Square, 311 E Government St 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
Free Yoga in the Park
9:30 AM Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Classes are open to all ages and levels of experience. Certified instructors from Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center will provide instruction. The class is free, but you will need to BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat) and any other accessories you would like to use. Stay hydrated!
www.cityofpensacola.com/1024/Area-Events-andActivities
PSO - Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival (Free)
1:30 PM Fountain Park, 300 Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL Enjoy this annual outdoor performance in Fountain Park, 300 Zaragoza Street, featuring light classics and crowd favorites with the full orchestra conducted by Maestro Peter Rubardt. https://pensacolasymphony.com/
Tuesday November 5
Blue Trees Sunset Yoga with URU Yoga
5:30 PM Museum Plaza , Pensacola, FL Root into the earth as you ground yourself in a Blue Trees Sunset Yoga on Tuesday, November 5 at 5:30 p.m. in Museum Plaza. Breath deep as you fill your lungs and breath away the day amongst the Blue Trees: Environmental Installation.
https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/calendarof-events/blue-trees/
Wednesday November 6
Blue Trees & Blue Cheese: A Wine and Cheese Reception
6:00 PM Museum Plaza , Pensacola, FL Join us from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6 for this exclusive ticketed event to celebrate the art installation The Blue Trees: Environmental Installation and Foo Foo Fest. Enjoy the delicious culinary delights of Classic City Catering and the bluegrass music of The New Cahoots.
https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/calendarof-events/blue-trees/
The Undercovers: 3 World Class Singers Pay Tribute to Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, & Smokey Robinson
7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Undercovers: 3 World Class Singers Pay Tribute to Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, & Smokey Robinson www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Thursday November 7
Pensacola Opera - Carmen: The Traveler
5:30 PM Seville Square, Pensacola, FL Pensacola Opera - Carmen: The Traveler https://pensacolaopera.com/
The Living Museum: A Trip through Pensacola’s History (Free)
7:00 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/
Yellow Brick Joel: Elton John / Billy Joel Face To Face: The Tribute Concert
7:30 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/
FamilyCalendar
Friday November 8
Environmental Art Market
10:00 AM Museum Plaza, Pensacola, FL Join us on Museum Plaza on Friday, November 8 for a free environmental art market featuring various creators, makers, vendors and organizations that are committed to sustainable practices and environmental impact. https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/calendarof-events/blue-trees/
Big Screen on the Bayou
6:30 PM Bayview Park, Pensacola, FL Bring your blanket, chairs, family and friends to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a jumbo screen at Bayview Park overlooking the beautiful Bayou Texar near the Community Center. Arrive early to reserve your spot and enjoy pop-up vendors, movie trivia, and food truck fare! Food vendors will be open by 5pm and the movie rolls at 6:30pm.
The Corner of Broadway & Main Street, presented by Choral Society of Pensacola ($25) 7:30 PM First Baptist Church of Pensacola, 500 North Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 From Broadway showstoppers to Disney favorites, a cappella sensation Voctave’s 11-member vocal ensemble brings their gorgeous harmonies to beloved songs at Voctave: The Corner of Broadway & Main Street.” Their concert will be a treat for musical lovers of all ages, presented by the Choral Society of Pensacola and Foo Foo Fest. https://foofoofest.com/
Saturday November 9
Joyful Noise! Gospel Competition
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Pensacola High School Auditorium, 500 W. Maxwell St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Inspired by the PBS documentary series GOSPEL from Henry Louis Gates, Jr., the Joyful Noise! Gospel Celebration is a three-day music event, highlighted by the award-winning New York gospel choir Sing Harlem, a regional gospel competition, a Sunday gospel brunch, and a gospel workshop for K–8 students at Dixon School of Arts & Sciences.
https://foofoofest.com/
Night Moves Fest
2:00 PM Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola, FL, 32514 Night Moves Fest is a day-long music festival hosted at Community Maritime Park in downtown Pensacola. The festival will feature 16 national and regional alternative/indie acts. Along with live music, there will also be food trucks, local vendors, and brand sponsorship booths on the festival grounds next door to Maritime Park. https://nightmovesfest.com/
Permanent Collection Exhibition Gala
5:00 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, Pensacola, FL A ticketed fine art and dining experience on November 9 will give patrons an opportunity to support the museum’s collection and leave a legacy for future generations.
https://foofoofest.com/
Keep Pensacola Beautiful Art Show
5:00 PM First City Arts Center, 1060 N Guillemard St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Keep Pensacola Beautiful will be holding its annual art show at First City Arts Center. This show features art created with reused items and trash.
https://foofoofest.com/
HizashiCon Anime Festival
First United Methodist Church’s Wright Place, 6 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32501 This day-long event will include fan panel discussions with special guests such as voice actors of popular anime series, cosplay contests, Vocaloid music performances, film screenings, vendors, and a maid café.
https://foofoofest.com/
Sunday November 10
Joyful Noise! Gospel Brunch
12:00 PM Lily Hall, 415 N. Alcaniz St. Pensacola, FL Straight from the No. 1 gospel brunch in New York City, Sing Harlem will perform for a special champagne brunch in Downtown Pensacola. https://foofoofest.com/
Pensacola Eggfest
12:00 PM Hadji Temple, 800 W 9 Mile Rd Pensacola, FL, 32534 Pensacola EggFest will take place at Noon, Sunday November 10th, 2024, at Hadji Temple 800 W 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, FL 32534 . 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://pensacolaeggfest.com/
Jazz for Justice, presented by Legal Services of North Florida (Free)
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, UWF Museum Plaza, 300 S Tarragona St Pensacola, FL, 32502 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/
Wheel of Fortune LIVE!
7:00 PM Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Wheel of Fortune LIVE! - America’s Game® comes to your hometown! Contestants are randomly selected from the audience to join our host onstage and spin a replica of the iconic Wheel, solve puzzles, and WIN incredible prizes like trips to Paris and Hawaii or BIG MONEY up to $10,000 in cash.
www.pensacolasaenger.com/
Thursday November 14
Pensacola Habitat for Humanity
5:00 PM The Sanctuary, 716 N 9th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32501 This special event will feature a cocktail hour for mingling with like-minded organizations and community stakeholders. Enjoy great food and drink, silent and live auctions, live entertainment, and more! Be inspired by life-altering stories from families impacted by Pensacola Habitat for Humanity’s mission.
Saturday November 16
Northwest Florida Heart Walk
9:00 AM Florida Power & Light, 500 Bayfront Pkwy Pensacola, FL, 32502 We’re all tied to heart disease and stroke in some way, and we must change that. Join your friends, family and co-workers to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. nwflheartwalk.org
Every Monday
Baby Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for stories,
songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com
Every Tuesday
Baby Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.
850-453-7780 www.mywfpl.com
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Bellview Library, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6360 www.mywfpl.com
Tuesdays thru October 29
Gulf Coast Kid’s House12-week Therapy Series (Free)
5:30 PM - 7:15 PM, Gulf Coast Kids House, 3401 N. 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL, 32503 Gulf Coast Kid’s House is hosting another 12-week therapy series - Adult Sexual Abuse Recovery Group. Every Tuesday beginning August 13th from 5:30-7:15pm, the group will come together to heal unresolved trauma from childhood led by several highly skilled licensed therapists. This group is FREE to the community with childcare provided. To register for this group, contact Margot Dutel at counselor@ gckh.org. Space is limited.
850-595-5783 www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org
Every Wednesday
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com
Every Thursday
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Westside Library, 1301 W. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-595-1047 www.mywfpl.com
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for exciting stories,
FamilyCalendar
songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com
Every other Friday
Art Academy for Autism - Ages 16+
4:00 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 16+ -Alternating Fridays from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. www.pensacolamuseum.org
Every third Friday Gallery Night
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Gallery Night is an all-ages community arts and culture event which happens on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. www.gallerynightpensacola.org
Every Saturday Palafox Market
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more at the event that’s consistently voted
“Best Farmers Market” and “Best Free Thing to Do.” www.palafoxmarket.com
Every first Saturday
West Florida Genealogical Society Meeting (Free) 10:30:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola Library , 239 N Spring Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 WFGS is for anyone interested in genealogy and family history. A brief meeting followed by presentation. info@wfgs.org www.wfgs.org
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
Every other Saturday
Art Academy for Autism
1:30 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 5-9-Alternating Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Ages 10-15-Alternating Saturdays from 1:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. www.pensacolamuseum.org
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
The Importance of Micro-Moments in Your Child’s Life
Many years ago, I learned about micronutrients and macronutrients. The key difference lies in the amount required by the body. Macronutrients are needed in large quantities for energy and structure, while micronutrients are necessary in smaller amounts for various biochemical functions and overall health. I was a personal trainer, and I needed to be able to teach my clients the difference between these building blocks. Both play an essential role in helping people feel their best and be the healthiest version of themselves.
I’m no longer a personal trainer, but I have come to recognize the immense importance of micro-moments with our children.
Much like micronutrients, these micromoments play a vital role in helping kids as they grow. Allow me to explain. If we take a look at our daily lives, they are made up of what I call micromoments. Micro-moments are brief instances throughout the day that can significantly impact a person’s emotional state, productivity, and overall well-being. A quick conversation with a friend,
bending over to pet your dog before you leave for work, leaving a note for a loved one, a quick text… these are all micromoments. Our kid’s lives are inundated with these moments, as well, many of them happening via a screen. These moments can encourage our children to be present and mindful, helping them to appreciate the small joys in life, or they can be damaging. For social media and increased time in this space, I want to explore how they can be damaging. Teens are spending an average of five hours on devices a day. Research shows that they check their phones AT LEAST 100 times a day. This almost sounds unbelievable, but if you break it down into ten checks an hour, they reach 100 in 10 hours. And 10 “checks” an hour seems like nothing to a kid with Snapchat. If we break these numbers down even further, it would be disturbing. Out of the average of 100 checks, at least half of those are something that is negative or harmful. It may be issues with friends through a quick snap. It may
be a disturbing video through TikTok. However, around half of these micro-moments on social media are not positive in nature. That is like saying, I am going to tell you 50 good things today, but only if I can also tell you 50 “bad” things. We would never sign up for that. But our kids do. Everyday.
I call these micro-moments because they are embedded in our children’s lives in short-form videos and quick snaps. They are not long conversations but rather quick, random bursts of information. Physiologically, our bodies hold onto this information, and we have an incredibly hard time processing the “bad” or negative micro information. I believe it is one of the reasons anxiety is so high among our youth.
To combat this issue, I highly recommend having your own micro-moments with your children. Quality conversations. A bit of time together, device-free. A 10-second hug before their day starts. And, of course, guidelines should be set for their social media intake. It is my belief that all of our micro-moments indeed have macro consequences.
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.
Kristi
Consult
