Pensacola • Your City • Your Magazine
November 2014
editor’s note > my two cents on the subject
For the last few years, my family’s holiday tradition has been the fantastic post-Thanksgiving downtown Elf Parade and Winterfest kick-off. We love dressing like elves, parading with Santa, meeting Frosty and Rudolph, sipping hot cocoa and nibbling on holiday sweets. It is great family fun and we look forward to it each year. Pensacola has a lot of fun holiday traditions and we’ve once again compiled our annual list of Holiday Happenings in this issue. We hope you are inspired to get out and enjoy them all this season. A brand spanking new fall tradition for 2014 is the inaugural Foo Foo Fest, which runs from November 6-17. The brainchild of the folks over at Arts, Culture and Entertainment, Foo Foo incorporates an already rich cultural season with new and exciting arts and culture events to create a 12-day celebration of everything artsy and interesting. See our article and a few of our favorite picks on page 32. There has been a lot of buzz lately about the growth of the Pensacola community. From a revived downtown and exceptional job growth to a more energized and involved community, Pensacola is surely on the rise. One group doing their part in growing the community is Pensacola Young Professionals, a group of emerging and active leaders between the ages of 21 and 40. This talented pool of young people contributes greatly to both the business world and the Pensacola community as a whole. Read all about them on page 39. Yet another group doing more than their part to make Pensacola better is the women’s philanthropic group Impact 100. This group of community minded women has once again met to award ten local nonprofits with the necessary funds to expand, restore and invigorate their organizations. Find out what groups were awarded grants this year and what they plan to do with money on page 18. Also in this issue, which has taken on a decidedly philanthropic focus, we profile the great work and giving heart of Teri Levin and the Levin family, particularly as it pertains to Gulf Coast Kid’s House. In addition, we look at a charitable institution whose giving has spanned over 60 years and has changed countless lives—The Waterfront Rescue Mission. I hope you are able to get out and partake of all the city has to offer this season. And while you’re at it, take the opportunity to make a difference of your own in our community or with a particular individual. Tis the season, after all. Cheers,
Kelly Oden, Executive Editor
My daughter, Lola, and her gang of elf cousins at the Elf Parade. Bottom from left, clockwise: Lola Oden, Jackson Rosburg, Jacob Rosburg, Hannah Rosburg and Michael Rosburg
Pick up any of our magazines at one of these fine locations: Barnes and Noble Ever’man Natural Foods Bookseller 315 W. Garden St. 1200 Airport Blvd. Pensacola, FL 32501 Pensacola, FL 32504 850-438-0402 850-969-9554 Varona’s Airport Gift Shop Family Christian Stores Area Books-A-Million 1520 Airport Blvd. Area Walmart Stores Pensacola, FL 32504 850-474-9324
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CONTENTS FEATURES
32. FOO FOO Festival 39. The New Guard Pensacola Young Professionals
THE E NEW W GUARD R PENSACOLA CO YOUNG G PROFESSIONALS N
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DEPARTMENTS 9. Holiday Happenings 12. Mahabhuta Yoga Festival 14. Waterfront Rescue Mission Rebuilding Lives Nurturing Souls
16. The Levin Legacy of Love 9.
32. 18. Making an IMPACT
20. PLAY
Events & Adventures
26. LIVE Art, Music & Culture
30. GIVE Nonprofit News
44. REPEATS
Pensacola Scene
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On the cover: Pensacola Young Professionals Erik Petersen, Hong Tran, Jonathan Thompson and Chuntell Patterson. Photographed by Guy Stevens
November 2014 PUBLISHER
MALCOLM BALLINGER malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com PM EDITOR
KELLY ODEN kelly@ballingerpublishing.com ART DIRECTOR
RITA LAYMON rita@ballingerpublishing.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
GUY STEVENS, II guy@ballingerpublishing.com EDITOR
EMILY LULLO emily@ballingerpublishing.com BUSINESS EDITOR
JOSH NEWBY josh@ballingerpublishing.com EDITORIAL INTERNS
CHRISTIAN PACHECO SARAH WALTER SALES & MARKETING
SHARYON MILLER, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 28 sharyon@ballingerpublishing.com BECKY HILDEBRAND, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 31 becky@ballingerpublishing.com
OWNERS
MALCOLM & GLENYS BALLINGER PUBLISHER
MALCOLM BALLINGER • malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR
KELLY ODEN •kelly@ballingerpublishing.com ART DIRECTOR
RITA LAYMON • rita@ballingerpublishing.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
GUY STEVENS II • guy@ballingerpublishing.com EDITOR
EMILY LULLO •emily@ballingerpublishing.com BUSINESS EDITOR
JOSH NEWBY •josh@ballingerpublishing.com SALES & MARKETING SHARYON MILLER, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 28 sharyon@ballingerpublishing.com SIMONE SANDS, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 21 simone@ballingerpublishing.com BECKY HILDEBRAND, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE EXT. 31 becky@ballingerpublishing.com WEBSITE:
WWW.BALLINGERPUBLISHING.COM
EDITORIAL OFFICES 41 NORTH JEFFERSON STREET, SUITE 402 PENSACOLA, FLORIDA 32502 850-433-1166 • FAX 850-435-9174
PUBLISHED BY BALLINGER PUBLISHING:
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NW Florida’s Business Climate Magazine and Pensacola Magazine is locally owned and operated. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing. © 2014
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2014
HOLIDAY
HAPPENINGS PENSACOLA
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Nov. 15 - Second Annual Camp Fire Parade of Trees Dazzling displays of Christmas trees will delight children and adults at the Camp Fire’s second annual Parade of Trees at the Hadji Shrine Center. In addition to viewing the stunningly decorated trees, children will be able to enjoy visiting Santa’s Workshop and the Gingerbread Garden. For the adults, there will be the Parade of Trees Live Auction which will offer food, wine, music, and magnificent decorations for sale. Proceeds from the auction benefit the many youth organizations involved with Camp Fire. Tickets to the Parade of Trees are $6 for adults and $4 for children. Admission to the auction is $25 per person or $40 per couple. For more information, please call 476.1760. Nov. 15-17 - SOGO Gingerbread House Contest Build your own delicious holiday masterpiece and compete for a grand prize during the SOGO Gingerbread House Contest. The contest is open to everyone not employed within the SOGO group of retailers, Studer Properties, Studer Institute or the Blue Wahoos organization. All houses should be built upon the approved 18”x18” bases that are available for purchase from local retailers. Everything except the base should be edible and creatively crafted. There are many ways to win the Gingerbread House Contest including Judge’s Pick, People’s Choice, Teen Baker, and Child Baker. To participate in the Teen Baker category, you must be between ages 12-18. Child Bakers must be age 11 or younger. Prize money ranges from $5,000 to $50. For more information, please visit sogogingerbread.com.
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Nov. 22 - Seville Quarter Wild Turkey Trot 5K Join the Seville Quarter Milers and “get on your feet before you eat!” The Wild Turkey Trot begins at the new, earlier start time of 10 am and will run through downtown Pensacola, ending with an awards presentation and prizes. Registration is $20 before Nov. 7, $25 from Nov. 7-21, and $30 on the day of the race. Proceeds go toward preparing and delivering over 100 Thanksgiving dinners to families in need. Visit sevillequarter.com/events for more information or register online at runsignup.com.
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Nov. 28-Dec.24 - Elf Parade and Winterfest 2014 Downtown Pensacola will be transformed into a magical wonderland full of lights and sounds once more as
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Winterfest returns. This year’s celebration kicks off Friday, Nov. 28 when the elves gather behind the T.T. Wentworth Museum at 3:30 pm for their costume contest. At 4:30 pm, the elves and all their fellows will be led by Parade Marshall Mollye Barrows and begin their parade to Plaza Wonderland at the Old County Courthouse where the opening ceremonies and Reindeer Games will take place. At 6 pm, Santa Claus will be in his sleigh, waiting to hear the Christmas wishes of all the good children. The Snow Princess will be crowned during this time, during the Snow Princess Tea at Portabello Market inside the Pensacola Cultural Center from 3-4 pm. Girls age 3-7 who come dressed as snow fairies will make up the Snow Princess’s court and help escort her, along with the Snow Prince, during the Elf Parade. Tickets for the Tea are $25 for one child and one adult and include passes for that night’s 6 pm showing of The Polar Express at the Saenger Theatre. It is highly recommended that all tea guests dress in their Christmas best. Winterfest’s signature performance tour will return, featuring 16 performances and an hour-long trolley ride through downtown Pensacola. Dates for the tour are Nov. 29 and Dec. 7, 13, 20, 21, and 22. Ticket prices vary by date. For more information on events and to purchase tickets, please visit pensacolawinterfest.org.
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Nov. 28-30; Dec. 5-7, 12-24, 26-28 - Zoo Lights The Gulf Breeze Zoo will sparkle once again this season as thousands of holiday lights will help visitors enjoy the beauty of the zoo at night. Hours for the event are 5 pm-9 pm with last admission at 8:30 pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and children and $5 for members. On Nov. 29, guests who bring a new, unwrapped toy valued at $10 or higher to donate to Toys for Tots will receive free admission into the event. For more information, visit gulfbreezezoo.com. Dec. 3 - PSC Foundation Hosts Holiday Grande Gala Join the Pensacola State College Foundation and enjoy Southern holiday festivities at the Holiday Grande Gala. The event will be held at the Sanders Beach-Corrine Jones Community Center and will begin at 6 pm. Tickets to this event are $100 per person. Proceeds will provide direct support for scholarships and benefit students, faculty, and programs at the college. For reservations and more information, please contact the PSC Foundation at 484.1560.
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Photo by John Morgan
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Dec. 3-7 - 47th Annual Snowball Derby Trade the carols and gingerbread for powerful engines and burning rubber because the Snowball Derby is returning to Pensacola’s Five Flags Speedway. For ticket information to this highlight of the thrill-seeker’s holiday calendar, please visit 5flagsspeedway.com.
the Christmas Parade Dash is the parade itself, which will have bands from every high school in Escambia County as well as local groups from around the region. To register for the dash, visit pensacolarunners.com. More information about the parade can be found at coxpensacolachristmasparade.org.
Dec. 5-14 - UWF Presents A Christmas Carol The Department of Theatre at UWF is bringing back Charles Dickens’ holiday classic for its eighth season. The tale of Ebenezer Scrooge is something that people of all ages can learn from and enjoy. For details on ticket pricing and show times, visit uwf.edu/theatre or call the box office at 857.6285.
Dec. 15-16 - Pensacola Civic Band Presents Christmas at the College The Pensacola Civic Band will celebrate the season by bringing favorite Christmas songs to Pensacola State College’s Ashmore Auditorium. Showtime starts at 7:30 on both nights. Tickets are $10. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit lyceum.pensacolastate.edu.
Dec. 6 - Choral Society of Pensacola Presents Handel’s Messiah The Choral Society of Pensacola is once again performing the timehonored masterpiece by George Frederic Handel. The concert will feature over 60 singers and four guest soloists backed by the Choral Society Orchestra led by artistic director Xiaolun Chen. The show will begin at 7:30 pm at St. Paul Catholic Church. Tickets are $22 for reserved seating, $18 for general admission, and $5 for students. To purchase tickets, please call 484.1806.
Dec. 16-18 - Pensacola Little Theatre’s Annual Holiday Cabaret PLT and Coastal Cabaret Ensemble are once again presenting their Holiday Cabaret, which features local performers entertaining crowds with a variety of traditional and modern holiday tunes. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for more information.
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Dec. 12-14 - Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Christmas on the Coast The Pensacola Children’s Chorus, featuring some of the area’s most talented young performers, will once again present this local holiday staple. The shows will take place at the Saenger Theatre with the Friday and Saturday shows beginning at 7:30 pm and the Sunday show beginning at 2:30 pm. For information and tickets, please visit pensacolasaenger.com.
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Dec. 12-14, 18-21 - Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Snow Queen The Pensacola Little Theatre will present its rendition of the classic Hans Christian Anderson story The Snow Queen. Following Gerda’s tale to rescue her best friend Kay who was spirited away by the mysterious Snow Queen, this G-rated play can be enjoyed by everyone. For show times and ticket information, please visit pensacolalittletheatre.com. Dec. 13 - Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade and Dash Spectators will line the streets of downtown Pensacola to view two exciting events. Beginning at 5 pm on Dec. 13, runners and walkers will make the 1.2 mile route down to Plaza Ferdinand. Following
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Dec. 19-21 - Ballet Pensacola Presents The Nutcracker Ballet Pensacola is providing dance enthusiasts with another season of this quintessential Christmas tale. Audiences will be enchanted by Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece starting at 7 pm on Friday and Saturday and 1:30 pm on Sunday. More information can be found at pensacolasaenger.com. Dec. 31 - Pensacola Symphony Orchestra New Year’s Eve Concert Send off the old year with the PSO’s New Year’s Eve celebration at the Saenger Theatre. The musical wave to the old year and greeting to the new year begins at 7 pm. For more information, please visit pensacolasaenger.com.
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Dec. 31 - Pelican Drop Regarded as “the Gulf Coast’s premiere New Year’s Eve event,” flocks of people will gather in downtown Pensacola to count down the hours and minutes until midnight. Live music, street performers, children’s activities, and food and drinks will all be part of the celebration, which starts at 5 pm. When the clock strikes 12, the 14-foot-tall pelican will drop 100 feet from its perch at the intersection of Palafox and Government as the skies fill with fireworks and confetti. For more information, please visit pensacolapelicandrop.com.
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7 Photo courtesy of Ballet Pensacola, by Meg Baisden Photography
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MAHABHUTA YO G A F E S T I VA L
By Christian Pacheco
When asked about how the Mahabhuta form of yoga stands out from other styles like Hatha and Bikram, Stacey Vann was quick to set the record straight. “Mahabhuta isn’t a form,” she said, clarifying that Mahabhuta yoga is more than just a physical variation of the practice. 12
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Mahabhuta is actually known as “The Great Element,” which is physically present in five different elements: fire, water, earth, wind and ether, and acts as the space where everything exists and acts. What sounds like a grouping of names best fit for a fantasy novel or a 70s Motown band is really a unifying ideology for the third annual Mahabhuta Yoga Festival. The festival, which will run Nov. 21-23 at the Sanders Beach Community Center, will bring together many yogis (yoga practitioners), teachers and curious individuals to practice various styles of yoga at all levels. The price for a three-day pass is $270 while a one-day ticket is $135 for Friday or Sunday only. Festival volunteers get an admission ticket for $100. Vann is the festival’s founder and the owner of Breathe Yoga & Wellness Center. Since there are many yoga festivals taking place around the country, she wanted to create an event of her own and establish connections in the regional yoga community. “It was more just inspiration, kind of when you just allow things to unfold,” Vann said. This year, the Mahabhuta Yoga Festival takes place during the Year of the Wood Horse, which, referring to the Chinese calendar, runs from January this year to next February. The horse cycle is the seventh earthly branch in Chinese medicine, symbolizes June as the fifth lunar month, and the horse year is said to be one of extremes and fluctuation, according to the festival website. The previous events have celebrated the years of the Water Snake and the Water Dragon. Several guest presenters and instructors will be heading up workshops and classes during the festival such as Vani Kindrell, Rebecca Sathre, Aaron Lind and Surdas and Vajra Yogini. Their classes will encompass the physical, mental and emotional benefits of Kundalini yoga, Vedic-Thai yoga, and AcroYoga, among other types and topics. Classes in aerial and slackline yoga, which utilize hammocks and slack tubing to help people achieve and refine yoga posture and poses, will also be available. Vann will lead the seminar “Kundalini Yoga: A Way Through Every Block to Manifest Your Destiny & Harness Your Dreams” Nov. 21 with Vani Kindrell. In addition to physical exercise and meditation, music is an important part of the yoga experience, and the Mahabhuta Yoga Festival will feature plenty of quality musicians. Four-time Grammy nominee Michael Brant DeMaria will perform Nov. 21 on the Horse Stage, and Sean Johnson and the Wild Lotus Band will play their dynamic kirtan tunes on Nov. 21 and 22. DeMaria and Johnson will also be leading yoga seminars and are probably the most anticipated guests this year, Vann said. Wah! will also be hosting a healing concert at Sanders Beach on Nov. 22 and will lead her Wah! Healing Sound Workshop during the festival. “The Healing Concert is an evening immersion into Wah!’s beautiful, meditative music with calming Blisslights,” the artist’s webpage said. “It is an invitation to access deep relaxation, natural healing and rejuvenation.”
When not engaging in the workshops or attending the concerts, yoga enthusiasts can browse the wares of various craftsmen, herbalists and other vendors at the Artisan Village. Healthy, organic foods will be available at the festival as well, courtesy of local restaurants Raw & Juicy, Wild Roots and End of the Line Café. The Mahabhuta Yoga Festival will accommodate children as well as adults. Christa Parent, a yoga practitioner since 2005 that has worked with children and families for over 15 years, will head up the “Mahabhuta’s Mystical Kids” workshop, according to the event website. Young ones can also head over to the Kids Tent to participate in the Galactic Child Yoga Class at noon Nov. 22 and 23 or catch the Columbia Marionette Show perform Cinderella at 1 pm both days as well. For more information, including a complete event schedule and prices, volunteer details and list of special guests, contact Stacey Vann at 572.6562, staceyvann@msn.com or visit mahabhutayogafestival.com.
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WATERFRONT R ESCUE M ISSION Rebuilding Lives • Nurturing Souls By Kelly Oden
While most people associate Waterfront Rescue Mission with feeding and sheltering the homeless, they are that and so much more. The mission first opened in 1949 in downtown Pensacola and served as a place for sailors to sleep off their port adventures. The Mission saw this as an opportunity to provide the gospel, as well as a place to sleep and a hot meal, to the men. Since that time, the Mission has relocated to a larger campus on Herman Street and has grown its services tremendously while still maintaining its core purpose, which is to transform lives via the gospel. 14
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The Mission accomplishes this goal through a variety of services. The three primary services—shelter, recovery and career services combine with a handful of ancillary services to truly set the men and women they serve on a self-sustaining, drug and alcohol free life. EMERGENCY SHELTER People fall on hard times and into homelessness for a variety of reasons. Be it from substance abuse, unexpected illness, loss of employment, or mental illness, the Mission believes that everyone needs a safe, warm place to sleep. Every night, up to 395 men and women seek refuge at one of the Mission’s shelters. In 2013, the Waterfront Rescue Mission provided 94,423 nights of shelter to homeless men and women in our community. Waterfront Rescue Mission has three men’s shelters across the Gulf Coast: Waterfront Rescue Mission in Pensacola,
sonal and spiritual enrichment and work with men and women to deal with the life-dominating issues that have led to their current situation. All rescue and recovery services are offered free of charge. Men seeking recovery can interview for the program and begin their journey at the Emerald Coast Rescue Mission in Fort Walton Beach, the Waterfront Rescue Mission in Pensacola, or the Mobile Rescue Mission. The program is divided into two phases. Phase One lasts three months and offers a rigorous Bible-based curriculum, individual and group counseling, and a work experience program to help the men rebuild their lives. Phase Two lasts four months and the men move to New Hope Home for Men in Gulf Breeze where they continue in counseling and work therapy, working one on one with chaplains and counselors. “We try to send four men from Pensacola, four from Mobile and four from Fort Walton Beach to New Hope Home at the beginning of each
CAREER DEVELOPMENT Graduates from the Mission’s addiction recovery programs have the option to enroll in one of the Mission’s Career Development Programs. While in the programs, men and women have the opportunity to work, develop a trade or obtain a college degree while in a supervised and accountable environment. The educational track offers help obtaining financial aid to attend local colleges or universities, while the work track provides help getting a job and addresses barriers to meaningful employment. All men and women receive assistance in saving and planning for a life of self-sufficiency. Located in Pensacola, the men’s program lasts 8-24 months and offers the opportunity to join the workforce, receive job training or continue their education at local colleges and universities. “Some of our men and women go on to continue their education at Pensacola State College, George Stone or The University of West Florida. We have a great working relationship with those places. Now, if they come out of New Hope Home with a lot of fines, alimony or child support, they have to go into the work program and pay their fines and get back on track,” Breault explains. After they pay off their fines and debts, they can continue on to the educational track.
Want to Help? Waterfront Rescue accepts monetary and item donations and they are always looking for dynamic volunteers. To learn more, visit waterfrontmission.org.
Emerald Coast Rescue Mission in Fort Walton Beach, and Mobile Rescue Mission in Mobile. The women’s shelter is located at New Hope Home for Women in Pensacola. Emergency shelter guests can stay overnight at the mission for three nights a month and receive a safe place to sleep, a hot breakfast and dinner, a shower and clothing. Waterfront Rescue Mission president Mick Breault says the organization has seen dramatic increases in the need for meals, beds and services across the Gulf Coast. The Mission also serves lunch to anyone in need five days a week and they have served 59,000 lunches in the first eight months of 2014. RECOVERY PROGRAMS Waterfront Rescue Mission offers addiction recovery programs for men and women. The programs offer opportunities for per-
month. They become what we call a Band of Brothers and those 12 are assigned a counselor for more intense counseling,” says Breault. The Mission also operates a Women’s Recovery Program at the New Hope Home for Women in Pensacola. In Phase One, each woman receives an individualized recovery plan created personally for her to help her overcome her addiction and the debilitating life issues that drive and accompany addiction. The initial recovery program utilizes individual and group counseling, a work experience program, and group classes to facilitate a holistic healing and realistic growth process. “After their graduation from New Hope Home, they have two choices. They can go home or they can go to career development. Our preference is for them to go on to career development. The success rate is so much higher if they go to career development,” says Breault.
The women’s program is located at the New Hope Home for Women in Pensacola and provides additional counseling, discipleship opportunities, accountability and resources for growth. The Women’s Career Development Program offers women the opportunity to join the workforce, receive job training at George Stone Technical Institute or receive a college degree from one of the local colleges or universities. Women are in the program for up to two years, depending on the specific track and needs for each individual woman. The Mission also offers a number of support services including a day resource center, a Learn to Read program, respite care, a clinic and specialized veteran’s care. The organization depends primarily on donations from individuals. With an estimated $5 million in annual operating costs, Breault says about half of that comes from bargain center and recycling profits. “The other half comes from donations—most of which are single person donations of $30$40 dollars a month,” says Breault. “We do get a few grants for facilities and operations, but most of our income is raised and donated by local churches and individuals.”
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The Levin
Legacy of Love By Stacey Kostevicki, Executive Director, Gulf Coast Kids House
Teri Levin and GCKH Board of Directors and supporters after 2013 Impact 100 award announcement
Teri Levin and late husband Allen R. Levin
Teri Levin painting the walls of GCKH prior to opening
Dick Bell and Teri Levin
Th e mo re yo u giv e, th e mo re yo u get b ac k . I firmly b eliev e th at. Teri Levin is no stranger to giving back, donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to local charities, including Gulf Coast Kid’s House, in her lifetime. Some people may not know the priceless gifts that Levin bestows on charities as well. She isn’t one to just write a check and walk away – if a charity is lucky enough to earn her support financially, they likely also benefit from her time and talent. 16
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Sixteen years ago, Teri Levin was part of a small team that partnered with a local exchange club to make the dream of a child advocacy center in Escambia County a reality. The child advocacy center model was created in Huntsville, Ala. in the 1980s. This model co-locates the multitude of agencies involved in the intervention, prosecution and treatment of child abuse cases under one child-friendly roof. This co-location allows for better collaboration of agencies and greatly minimizes the trauma of the child victim. “Marci Goodman, Pam Schuster and I met at a conference and dreamed of one day creating a children’s advocacy center. I had an opportunity to visit Florida and Alabama multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and learn what they were all about – from there I was able to glean the best of what I’d heard. We began to have meetings with the different agencies – everyone was very excited to be a part of it,” said Patsy Hudson, the first executive director of Gulf Coast Kid’s House. Goodman was quoted in a 1999 Pensacola News Journal article saying, “It will be kind of like a safe house. What we want to do is enhance the prosecution as well as the prevention so we can at least put a dent in what we’re facing.” In the early days there was no building; the team operated out of a small downtown building and focused on tearing down the isolation that existed between child protection agencies. Hudson says, “Teri was absolutely hands-on and in the trenches. People might think that because she was a Levin, that she only contributed financially, but I am here to tell you very differently. Teri was the driving force behind fundraising for the building – she gave countless hours of her time planning and executing fundraisers. I’m not sure we could’ve done it without her. She really is brilliant and supportive.” Levin was the pioneer that brought the first Chocolate Fest and the first direct “ask” luncheon to GCKH. While Hudson worked to establish the team that would become Gulf Coast Kid’s House, Levin worked with other board members to find a home for Gulf Coast Kid’s House. In 2002, right before the team was about to make an offer on a piece of property on Highway 29, a commercial building on 12th Avenue-the old A&P Grocery store – became available. Teri Levin recalls the moment vividly, “Alice Martin, who was secretary of our Board at the time, saw the building and Richard McAlpin stepped in to start negotiations. I called Fred Levin and asked him to meet me at the property. I walked him through this ramshackle building talking about our vision – to create a safe place for children who had been abused, to have an environment
that was welcoming and a team that worked together day in and day out so that justice could be given for these innocent children. Fred supported the vision and donated $500,000 in honor of his wife, Marilyn Kapner Levin. We purchased the building and the rest is history.” Being involved since the beginning, Teri Levin can recall countless big moments for GCKH over the last 16 years. “When we were downtown, still looking for our forever home, we got this check – a big check – from Pam Schwartz. I remember getting the call from Patsy asking, who is this woman? Do you know her? I didn’t know Pam and we were just in awe that someone would support our vision so generously. I remember painting the walls of the building with my son, Evan. We did the first direct ask luncheon in the whole county. We did the Flight of Fancy Gala and fashion show – we were fundraising everywhere, all the time. We knew that the children we hoped to help didn’t have a choice and that they are our future. Who were we if we turned away from them?” The generosity of the Levin family continues today. Recently, when GCKH announced plans to expand the building, Martin Levin forgave a loan the agency had on their parking lot. “The Levin family has been a supporter of GCKH since its formation. It’s an amazing organization that is helping to make a true difference in the care of abused children and the prosecution of the offenders. My uncle Allen, who died of lung cancer, was one of my closest friends in life, and as his wife Teri will state GCKH would be an important cause for him,” states Martin Levin. Allen was the love of Teri’s life and to honor his memory Teri matched Martin’s donation, amounting to nearly $500,000. These gifts and the Levin family really spearheaded the $1 million capital campaign effort for the House. The new wing will be named the Allen R. Levin Family Advocacy and Education Wing. Current Gulf Coast Kid’s House Executive Director Stacey Kostevicki says, “Teri has always impressed me and this was a wonderful opportunity to get to know Martin Levin a bit. Martin seems very genuine – from reading his bio, he is an incredibly giving soul; he has been nothing but kind in all of our interactions. Teri is pure heart – when she told me she wanted to match Martin’s gift, that she knew this is what Allen would have supported, we both cried. She is the real deal and we are so grateful and proud to call her a friend.” For the blood, sweat, tears, and vision of the Levin Family – Gulf Coast Kid’s House and the children we serve each year – thank you.
Martin Levin, nephew of Allen R. and Teri Levin
Olivia Burley, ASA Anne Patterson, and Teri Levin
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2014 IMPACT 100 GRANT WINNERS
Free medical care for the poor. Preserving and nurturing the arts. Giving children a better education and a way to become better adults. You have over a million dollars to give away to such worthy causes, but how do you choose the ones to give the money to? Last month, ten local organizations made convincing By Christian Pacheco arguments to make these dreams a reality. IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, a local women’s philanthropy group, awarded a total of $1,025,000 in grants to ten non-profits at their Annual Meeting and Award Ceremony Oct. 19. Fifteen groups gathered at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front and presented the projects they wished to develop with IMPACT 100’s support, the winners voted on by the women in attendance. Since 2004, IMPACT 100 has donated more than $6 million to area charities, educational outlets and civic organizations. Presenters were categorized by area of service: Arts & Culture; Education; Environment, Recreation & Preservation; Family; and Health & Wellness. Some of the winners are established staples of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, like Big Brothers Big Sisters. The organization is putting their grant toward their “100 Men in 100 Days” project to recruit more male volunteers with their “Man Up” multimedia marketing plan. “Currently, only 37 percent of our volunteer inquiries come from men. The average wait for a boy on our waiting list is 16 months,” said Paula Shell, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. Shell brought a special guest with her to the presentation: 10-yearold Jayden, who is currently on the waiting list for a Big Brother.
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“My dad passed away two years ago,” Jayden said. “I want someone to spend time with, someone to have fun with, someone to help me with my homework. I want someone to help me to grow up to be a man my dad would be proud of.” The Our Lady of Angels St. Joseph Medical Clinic is not just a recognized name in downtown Pensacola, but it also grew in 2009 with IMPACT 100 assistance. The small establishment, which is staffed by 79 volunteers, is dedicated to providing free medical care to the poor and uninsured, said medical director David Conkle. The clinic sought (and later won) funds in order to upgrade and expand their facilities, which will help the staff care for their many long-term patients with chronic illnesses, Conkle said. Other grant-winning groups may not be the most well-known, but with IMPACT 100’s help, they will be able to enter the forefront of the non-profit community. “East Hill Academy has been a well-kept secret, unless you have a child with autism,” said Barbara Barber, executive director of East Hill Academy. “Autism is no secret.” East Hill Academy is a private institution that serves children with autism and related learning disabilities in grades 1-12, creating individualized learning programs to enhance students’ academic and social
lives, as well as their self-esteem, according to the official webpage. Proceeds from their IMPACT 100 grant will go toward facility upgrades and the construction of The Impact 100 Autism Learning Center, which will specialize in the education and wellbeing of nonconversational pupils. Another new educational project that will now be able to take off is “The MESS Hall Express,” a mobile, interactive science and math lab sponsored by the Pensacola MESS Hall. The MESS (Math, Engineering, Science and Stuff) Hall is where visitors, particularly schoolchildren, get to be hands-on with exhibits and devices, learning more about scientific principles. “We say ‘Yes, please touch that. Yes, please pick it up and take it apart and figure out how it works,” said Amie Remington, a MESS Hall Board member. “If those kids can’t come to the mountain, let’s take the mountain to them.” David Bear, chairman of the MESS Hall Board, reminded the IMPACT 100 voters that their museum and upcoming project will also enhance tourism and economic development, saying that communities that foster science education will be magnets for young professionals in STEM fields. Also advocating the tactile nature of his organization, Dan “Sky Horse” Helms of the Santa Rosa County Creek Indian Tribe told the story of how a visually impaired woman was able to experience Creek Indian culture as he ran her hand across the feathers on his headdress and the fur on his moccasins. Helms explained that with the creation of a cultural center, more students and the public can experience and become better educated about the customs and lifestyle of the Creek people. Members of the tribe hold an annual public Pow Wow and visit local schools, festivals, historical societies and military bases, according to the meeting agenda. The Creek Indian Tribe, also an IMPACT 100 grant recipient, will be putting their money toward creating better infrastructure for their Tribal Grounds, which also functions as a wildlife preserve. By improving their electrical, water and sewage, drainage and roadway systems, Helms
said that they can proceed with applying for EPA funding and other grants in order to get the cultural center off the ground. Meredith Doyen, executive director of the First City Art Center, said that the donation they received would have a tripling effect. The money will help pay for the expansion of glass and pottery programs, an addition to the center’s Creative Warehouse and pottery supplies and facility upgrades. “The comfort of our guests is important, and we’d like to accommodate everyone,” Doyen said. Doyen was joined by Mykah Bourgeois, a student in the glassblowing mentorship program for high school students. Bourgeois said that the program has helped her foster her creativity and further her love for art. The other grant recipients include the Society of St. Vincent De Paul Council of Pensacola, Alzheimer’s Family Services and the Rotary Club of Pensacola Foundation. Their projects are aimed at serving the homeless, public education about Alzheimer’s and a new playground at the Community Maritime Park. While the winning projects, establishments and events mean so much to the officials developing them, they certainly mean even more to those who participate and are in need of them. Larry Thompson is cofounder and president of the Miracle League of Northwest Florida, a baseball league for those with mental and physical challenges. His presentation included personal stories of people who benefitted from involvement with the league, including his wife and cofounder Donna, who passed away from cancer last year. One of Thompson’s stories involved a boy who rode his bike 11 miles to and from the ballpark each day he played for Miracle League. The young man’s response to why he would travel so far without getting a ride illustrates the importance of these local organizations to the people that need them. “Out here, I’m an athlete,” he said. “I can’t go anywhere else and be an athlete.”
PLAY EVENTS & ADVENTURES GET OUT AND PLAY
Through Nov. 4 UPCOMING STORYTIME AT BARNES & NOBLE DATES Mornings on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are special days at Barnes & Noble, when children ages two through seven can enjoy a free storytime designed just for them. Arts and crafts, singing, and dancing are just a few of the fun activities. Watch out for special dates that feature pajama days, dress-up storytime and even visits from favorite storybook characters. Upcoming stories include: Oct. 28: Children Make Terrible Pets Oct. 29: Julia’s House for Lost Creatures Nov. 1: A Pea with a Purpose—Local Author Storytime Nov. 4: The Very Cranky Bear For more information about Barnes & Noble’s Storytime, please call 969.9554.
Nov. 9 10TH ANNUAL PENSACOLA MARATHON & HALF MARATHON The race begins and ends at Veteran's Memorial Park on the bayfront then winds its way along a 13.1 mile circuit of the city for the half marathoners and a full 26.2 loop for the full marathon. The course features running through historic neighborhoods, the Downtown district, bands, and cheering Pensacolians. The finish line is next to the only replica of the National Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. For more information visit marathonpensacola.com.
Nov. 6
Nov. 6
Nov. 9
WORLD FAMOUS BUDWEISER CLYDESDALES PALAFOX PROCESSION
ATLAS BEVERAGE CLASSES AT THE FISH HOUSE DECK
BARNES & NOBLE HOSTS PRE-VETERAN’S DAY BOOKFAIR
Atlas Oyster House presents the next installment of Atlas Beverage Classes (A.B.C.). This semester will feature handcrafted beers, two featured spirit brands, and now cocktails with beverage director Josh Goldman, each paired with small plates. Classes are held on the Deck Bar the first Thursday of the month and will feature a presenter for four tastings. Classes begin at 6 pm and cost is $20 per person (plus tax and gratuity). The Nov. 6 class will feature “House-Made Infusions: Cocktails Using Infused Spirits.” Reservations are required. Call 516.2324 to reserve a seat.
Reading is Fundamental (RIF) will be at Barnes & Noble to host a bookfair in an effort to raise funds toward their goal of providing books to young people throughout the area. Being a pre-Veteran’s Day event, the bookfair will celebrate and honor those currently serving or those who have served in the military. Former mayor Josh Fogg and Captain Kevin Miller will both speak about their experiences in the military and sign copies of their books. For more information, please call 969.9554.
The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales will march through Downtown Pensacola beginning at the intersection of Palafox and Garden Streets and proceeding to the Blue Wahoos stadium Thursday, Nov. 6, starting at 5 pm. The hitch (the team of eight horses) with Budweiser’s historic beer wagon will be at the Blue Wahoos stadium after the procession for viewing and photos. The public is invited to watch the Clydesdales as they proceed through downtown or sit in the Blue Wahoos stadium to see them as they enter the ball park. Anheuser-Busch’s Budweiser Clydesdales make hundreds of appearances each year. The Clydesdales are an American icon and one of the world’s most recognized corporate symbols.
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Nov. 14 Nov. 16 SEVILLE QUARTER WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Enjoy a festive tasting of wines and cuisine at Seville Quarter’s 2014 Wine and Food Festival, Nov. 16 at 2-5 pm. Festivalgoers will enjoy samples of handpicked wines from around the world poured by 10 local distributors. A special feature will be a Champagne and Oyster Bar in the courtyard. All wines will be available to purchase at special festival pricing and your admission includes a $5 coupon towards your purchase. For more information visit sevillequarter.com.
BLUE MARLIN REALTY GROUP HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Join the Blue Marlin Realty Group at the Regatta Bay Golf and Country Resort for their second annual Charity Golf Tournament. The tournament will begin at 9:30 am with registration and a shotgun start at 11 am. Entry fees are $125 for individual players and $400 for a foursome. All players will receive free lunch courtesy of Lenny’s Sub Shop. A silent auction and after-party will be held at the Regatta Bay Clubhouse. Proceeds will benefit the Taylor Haugen Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that provides grants, education and funding to athletic teams, schools and districts through its Youth Equipment for Sports Safety (YESS) program. Golfers can register individually or as a team at the Blue Marlin Realty Group’s office on Holiday Isle in Destin or at the Regatta Bay Clubhouse.
Nov. 14-15 ICE FLYERS
Nov. 11
2014-2015 SEASON The back-to-back SPHL champions, Pensacola Ice Flyers are back at Pensacola Bay Center for thrilling hockey. For more information 432.0800. Nov. 11 vs. Louisiana Ice Gators Nov. 14 vs. Louisiana Ice Gators Nov. 21 vs. Huntsville Havoc Nov. 22 vs. Huntsville Havoc Nov. 26 vs. Columbus Cottonmouths
VETERAN’S DAY PARADE the the ice call
Through November LOST VIRTUE: PENSACOLA’S RED LIGHT DISTRICT AT THE DESTINATION ARCHAEOLOGY RESOURCE CENTER The Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN) is opening a new temporary exhibit titled Lost Virtue: Pensacola’s Red Light District inside the Destination Archaeology Resource Center. While the women who worked in Pensacola’s red light district left few written records behind, archaeology is helping to tell their story. Several artifacts associated with the women who worked in Pensacola’s red light district during the late 1800s and early 1900s uncovered through archaeology will be on display for the first time. The DARC is located on the first floor of the Florida Public Archaeology Network headquarters at 207 East Main St. (next to Fish House). Admission is free. The exhibit will be on display until the end of January 2015.
Ceremony speaker Captain Lee Hansen USN (Retired) will also serve as this year’s Grand Marshall for the 2014 Veteran’s Day Parade. The uniting theme is honoring the role of women in military service. The parade theme is “She served, Recognizing Women of Honor and Character.” The parade begins at 9 am and is scheduled to end at the Veterans Memorial Park at 10:45 am. WCOA will be operating a live broadcast and entertainment from a stage located at the Hawkshaw property that borders the park to the northwest. For more information call 982.7024.
Nov. 13 COMPASS BOX WHISKEY DINNER AT JACKSON’S STEAKHOUSE Jackson’s Steakhouse is proudly partnering with Compass Box Whiskey and Premier Beverage to present a unique, handcrafted whiskey and food event. Compass Box Whiskey, voted Whiskey Magazine’s “Innovative of the Year” a stunning four times, make a variety of whiskey that covers the entire spectrum of Scotch styles, all of which Chef Irv Miller has paired with a delectable food creation. The dinner is $65 plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required for this event and can be made by calling 850.469.9898.
THIRD ANNUAL PENSACOLA CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL The unlimited tasting of over 200 beers makes the third annual Pensacola Craft Beer Festival the ultimate event for beer lovers. In addition to the plethora of beers from around the world, over 100 local arts and crafts vendors will feature their wares at the festival. For more information, please visit pcbeer.com.
Nov. 15 PENSACOLA EGGFEST Come to the Blue Wahoo Stadium for a barbecue contest and food tasting made possible by over 100 cooks, cooking with nothing but the Big Green Egg that gave the event its title. A $25 ticket will allow access to the event, sampling, and Big Green Egg demonstrations. For tickets and more information, please visit pensacolaeggfest.com.
Nov. 19 COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS & WINE PAIRINGS WITH CHEF IRV MILLER Enjoy a Cooking Demonstration and Wine Pairing at Jackson’s Steakhouse with Chef Irv Miller. For the Nov. 19 demonstration Chef Irv will present “Southern Sweet Treats.” Tickets are $45 and there will be two seatings at 5 pm6:30 pm and 7:30 pm-9 pm. For reservations call 217.2347.
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Nov. 15 PENSACOLA POP EXPO Comic book artists, vendors, food, drinks, cosplay, performances, and demonstrations will be set up in a festival atmosphere at Seville Quarter, Nov. 15 from 12-10 pm. In celebration of the film Ghostbusters’ 30th anniversary, there will also be a Ghostbusters themed art show hosted by Mainline Art House, and in the evening, a free outdoor screening at Seville Quarter of Ghostbusters, with special guest Ernie Hudson in attendance. Cost to attend is free, but a non-perishable food donation for Manna Food Pantries is highly encouraged. For more information, please visit pensacon.com/events/pop-expo.
Nov. 15-16 LIVING HISTORY CAMP AND CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF FORT PICKENS The Gulf Islands National Seashore will present two days of history and fun with their Living History Camp and Candlelight Tour of Fort Pickens. During the day, a living history encampment by Company C, 3rd U.S. Infantry will be held. Ranger-lead tours of Fort Pickens will be held at 2 pm on both days, but the grounds will be left open the night of Nov 15 for self-guided candlelight tours from 7 pm-9 pm. Last admittance is at 8:30 pm. Flashlights are allowed. Carpooling is recommended, as parking is limited. For more information, please call 934.2600.
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Nov. 7-9 BLUE ANGELS HOMECOMING SHOW The airshow this year starts with the night show on Friday night, and in a change from the Friday/Saturday day shows in the past, this year the day performances featuring the Blue Angels are on Saturday and Sunday. There will also be performances showcasing the best in both military and civilian aviation. For more information visit naspensacolaairshow.com.
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LIVE Nov. 7-9, 13-15
ART, MUSIC & CULTURE
PLT PRESENTS HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE
GET OUT AND LIVE
How I Learned to Drive follows the strained relationship between Li’l Bit and her aunt’s husband, Uncle Peck, from her adolescence through her teenage years into college and beyond. Using the metaphor of driving and the issues of pedophilia, incest, and misogyny, the play explores the ideas of control and manipulation. Tickets are $10 general admission and $17 for limited café seating in the M.C. Blanchard Courtroom. Tickets are available at the PLT Box Office or pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Nov. 1 IMPROVABLE CAUSE AT PLT Improvable Cause is Pensacola’s best (and only) improvisational comedy troupe performing the first Saturday of every month at 10:30 pm in the M.C. Blanchard Courtroom Theatre at the Pensacola Little Theatre. Improv is unscripted theatre where dialogue is created instantaneously. Tickets are $7 available at the PLT box office prior to shows.
Nov. 1 EXCUSE ME MISS BUT I’M IN LOVE WITH YOUR HUSBAND AT THE SAENGER THEATRE The hit stage play Excuse Me Miss But I’m In Love With Your Husband will come to the Pensacola Saenger Theatre Saturday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $23 or $26 and are available through the Saenger box office or pensacolasaenger.com.
Nov. 2 AN EVENING WITH THIRD DAY AT THE SAENGER Four-time Grammy Award-winning Christian rock band Third Day is set to perform at the Saenger Theatre on Sunday, Nov. 2 at 7 pm. Faith, passion and rock ‘n roll swagger coalesce on the band’s 12th album, Miracle, a simmering brew of potent rock anthems infused with the substantive, life-affirming lyrics that have always been the bedrock of the band’s music. Tickets are $25 at the Saenger Theatre box office, or ticketmaster.com.
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Nov. 5, Dec. 3
Nov. 7
UWF DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC PRESENTS FALL CHAMBER MUSIC RECITALS
REAP INMATE ART SHOW AT PMA
On the first Wednesday of November and December, the University of West Florida Department of Music will present an afternoon of chamber music at the Old Christ Church in downtown Pensacola. On Nov. 5 will be a variety of pieces written for piano, harpsichord, flute, and more. The program will include arias, duets and art songs. On Dec. 3, the Chamber Music Class will celebrate the season with merry selections from Bach, Handel, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Glazunov, in addition to traditional Christmas favorites. Every performance is open to the public. For more information, please call 474.2147.
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Drawings composed of everything from pencils to candies, leather purses, pottery and delicate crocheted pieces created by federal inmates from across the country will be on display and for sale at the Pensacola Museum of Art on Friday, Nov. 7, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The ReEntry Alliance of Pensacola, or REAP, is sponsoring the Inmate Art Show, which will showcase the works inmates create using simple supplies and their imaginations. REAP hopes the art show brings awareness to and raises funds for their non-profit organization, which provides a variety of resources, including mentoring, housing, transportation, and employment opportunities to newly released inmates in hopes of improving their chances of a crime-free, self-sufficient lifestyle. In addition to the art show, REAP is continuing its community outreach throughout the weekend during the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival. Additional works of art will be on display and for purchase at the Inmate Artworks booth in the Heritage Area. For more information on REAP and its programs, please visit reapreentry.org.
Shows will be at Seville Quarter at 6 pm and 8 pm on Nov. 8 and 9. For more information call 678.777.5774.
Nov. 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 PENSACOLA OPERA PRESENTS THE MEDIUM Pensacola Opera Presents The Medium, with five performances held at the Pensacola Opera Center Nov. 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15. Gian Carlo Menotti’s 1940s two-act opera, The Medium, is the dark and eerie tale of Madame Flora, a con-woman who cheats her clients through staged séances with the help of her daughter, Monica, and a mute orphan boy, Toby. All performances are at 7:30 pm, except the Nov. 9 performance, which will be at 2 pm. Tickets are $40 and are available at the Pensacola Opera Center or online at pensacolaopera.com.
Nov. 10-12
Nov. 11 PENSACOLA CHILDREN’S CHORUS PRESENT AN AMERICAN TRIBUTE AT THE NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM Join the Pensacola Children’s Chorus for a free concert at the Naval Aviation Museum, Nov. 11 from 2:30-4 pm. An American Tribute will include stirring, inspirational, patriotic songs as well as entertaining music honoring great Americans such as Will Rogers, Mark Twain, and George Gershwin. Music from Pensacola’s hugely popular musical, Seaplane, written by Pensacola Children’s Chorus Founding Director, Allen Pote, and Carolyn and Jack Fleming, will also be included as well as an Armed Services Medley, and more. The performance will include our 285-member chorus and a 16-member orchestra.
REWIND: A PLT MUSICAL REVIEW Join Pensacola Little Theatre as artists and actors take audiences on a trip of music, love and laughter at Rewind: A PLT Musical Review. This event will be held Nov. 10-12 at 7:30 pm each night. Tickets are free but seating is limited. Call 432.2042 to reserve a seat today. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for more information.
Nov. 12 MANHEIM STEAMROLLER AT THE SAENGER Nov. 7-9
Nov. 8
GREAT GULFCOAST ARTS FESTIVAL
PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS CLARINET BEL CANTO
The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival will come to Seville Square Nov. 7-9. One of the best-regarded, most popular arts festivals in the United States, the three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen and other artists. The Festival is ranked #29 in the nation by Sunshine Artist Magazine and the American Bus Association has named the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival one of the Top 100 Events in North America. The festival is open from 9 am-5 pm Friday and Saturday, and 10 am-4 pm Sunday. For more information visit ggaf.org.
Join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for Clarinet Bel Canto at the Saenger Theatre at 8 pm Nov. 8. This concert is part of the Masterworks Series and will feature clarinet soloist Anthony McGill. Musical selections will include Rossini, Donizetti, Copland and Schumann. Tickets range from $22-$84 and are available at pensacolasaenger.com.
Manheim Steamroll Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition and this year marks the 30th anniversary of the group’s annual tour. Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller along with dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. The spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller music. Tickets are $58, $68 or $88 and are available at the Saenger box office or pensacolasaenger.com.
Nov. 13
Nov. 8-9 POP’S DINER MUSICAL THEATRICAL PLAY & DINNER SHOW AT SEVILLE QUARTER Pensacola’s first dinner show coming and looking to stay in Pensacola! Sponsored in part by Waffle House, Pop’s Diner will test your emotions and truly entertain you while you enjoy your favorite Waffle House meal.
CASTING CROWNS AT THE PENSACOLA BAY CENTER The popular Christian rock band Casting Crowns is making its way to the Pensacola Bay Center stage Nov. 13 at 7 pm in support of the band’s newest album Thrive. Tickets are $33.50 and $44 and are available at the Pensacola Bay Center box office or at pensacolabaycenter.com.
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Nov. 14 THE CHORAL SOCIETY OF PENSACOLA’S “LYRIC LIBATIONS” GALA The Choral Society of Pensacola is once again pairing with The Uptown Trio and vocalist Angie Powers for their “Lyric Libations” gala. This event will feature music, food, and wine which the public is welcome to come enjoy. Reservations are $25 per person and can be made by calling the Choral Society office at 484.1806.
Nov. 15 PENSACOLA CIVIC BAND PRESENTS AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 MINUTES On Nov. 15 at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre, the Pensacola Civic Band presents Around the World in 80 Minutes with special guest, trumpeter Allen Vizzutti. Audiences will experience a journey through the rich countryside of Ireland and to the outback of Australia. Experience that patriotic home front of America and the Frozen tundra of Antarctica, the rich culture of African ceremonies and dance and much more this world has to offer. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the Lyceum Ticket Office at Pensacola State College (484.1847) or at the Saenger Theatre box office.
Nov. 14 JERRY SEINFELD AT THE SAENGER America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will be performing his signature stand-up routine at the Saenger Theatre on Friday, Nov. 14 with two performances: 7 pm and 9:30 pm! Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. Seinfeld now sets his sights on performing both nationally and internationally in 2014. Tickets are $85 and $125 and are available at the Saenger Theatre box office or ticketmaster.com.
Nov. 17 JAZZ GUMBO: AN EVENING WITH THE DUKES OF DIXIELAND The Jazz Society of Pensacola presents its monthly edition of Jazz Gumbo held the third Monday of each month at Seville Quarter in Phineas Phogg’s. This month the JSOP welcomes an outstanding group of jazz musicians for the Janet Knowles Memorial Jazz Gumbo. The featured performance will showcase The Dukes of Dixieland, of New Orleans. Cost to attend for Jazz Society members and non-members is $20 per person, and are limited to 300. For more information visit jazzpensacola.com.
Nov. 17 CHER IN CONCERT: D2K TOUR Grammy Award-winner Pat Benatar along with her husband, guitarist and songwriter Neil
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Giraldo, will join Cher for her critically acclaimed “Dressed to Kill” Tour coming to the Pensacola Bay Center on Nov. 17. Tickets are $23.50, $44.50, $81 or $143.50 and are available at the Pensacola Bay Center box office or at pensacolabaycenter.com.
Nov. 20-Dec. 6 THE ART GALLERY AT UWF PRESENTS VISCERAL, A BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS EXIT EXHIBITION University of West Florida graduating seniors Nikki Neel and Christian Steffanini will present Visceral, a Bachelor of Fine Arts Exit Exhibition at The Art Gallery (TAG). A reception will take place Nov. 20 from 5-9 pm at TAG, located in Building 82, the Fine and Performing Arts building, on UWF’s
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Pensacola Campus. Paintings, video installations, and statues by Neel and Steffanini will be showcased during Visceral. TAG will be open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturday from 12 to 4 pm. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call Nick Croghan at 474.2696.
Through Nov. 22 AT BLUE MORNING GALLERY THIS MONTH This month Blue Morning Gallery will feature the Spotlight on Art Show Endangered, through Nov. 22. This show breathes new life into the artwork of Valerie Aune, oil and acrylic painter; Melinda Giron oil, acrylic and mixed media; and gourd painter, Trisha Mack. Each artist has chosen to paint different animals or birds from
the Endangered Species list. The artwork depicted has been chosen in order to shed light on certain dwindling world wildlife populations. Species include the barn owl, wood storks, honey bees, and a Sumatran Elephant to name just a few of the featured endangered species. School is back in swing and Scout troops looking for an opportunity to earn Art Badges are encouraged to contact Blue Morning Gallery, at masweida@gmail.com, or admin@bluemorninggallery.com. Blue Morning Gallery is located at 21 Palafox Place. Hours are Monday-Thursday 10 am5 pm; Friday and Saturday 10 am-8:30 pm; and Sunday 12:30-4 pm. For information, call 429.9100 or visit bluemorninggallery.com.
Nov. 28-Jan. 3 QUAYSIDE CHRISTMAS MEMBER SHOW Since 1973, Quayside Art Gallery has offered a cumulative art opportunity and experience as possibly the oldest co-operative gallery in the southeast. Celebrate with the gallery as it recognizes its heritage, hosts charter members’ artwork alongside current members, and enjoy all that 40 years represents. For more information visit quaysidegallery.com.
Nov. 28 CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE AT THE SAENGER Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the 2014 holiday season with its newest stage spectacular that’s coming to the Saenger stage Friday, Nov. 28 at 7:30 pm. This breathtaking show is not to be missed! It’s a cirque show, a Broadway musical, a holiday spectacular, and a family show all in one. Tickets start at $48 and are available at the Saenger Theatre box office or ticketmaster.com.
Through Nov. 29 PMA PRESENTS KIM HOWES ZABBIA: CREATIVITY VS. FEAR This exhibit by Kim Howes Zabbia, Louisiana artist, author and teacher, covers 24 years of work from 1990 to now. Currently represented by Ariodante Gallery in New Orleans, Kim has had 16 solo exhibitions since earning her MFA in Studio Art at LSU during which time she developed her “No Fear” philosophy—that of opening her mind to allow the subject matter to evolve from within.” The artist will be giving a “No Fear” painting workshop on Nov. 1. For more information visit pensacolamuseum.org.
Nov. 29
Through Jan. 3
C.E.O. SUPER COMEDY BLOWOUT AT THE SAENGER
PMA PRESENTS PAT REGAN: ROOTS & REMEMBRANCE
The CEO Super Comedy Blowout is the funniest and most highly anticipated comedy show along the Gulf Coast! Known for showcasing some of the worlds outrageously funny and well-known comedians in the business, this extraordinary event serves as the cornerstone of the Wil-Lo Week celebration. This event allows you to let your hair down for the evening and enjoy a night of rib aching laughter with some of the greatest stars of comedy. Bring your family, friends, and co-workers out to enjoy this explosively funny and entertaining show at the Saenger Theatre Nov. 29 at 8 pm. For more information visit pensacolasaenger.com.
During this exhibition artist Pat Regan will be debuting a new body of work at the Pensacola Museum of Art. As an artist, Regan garners much of her inspiration from her lifetime of painting as well as the red clay banks of her Mississippi childhood memories. Regan attended Pratt Institute in Venice, Italy where she studied art and architecture. Regan’s art has been exhibited in multiple galleries and museums, and many of her pieces have been represented in private collections, including King Juan and Queen Sophia of Spain. For more information visit pensacolamuseum.org.
Nov. 30 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE LIVE AT THE SAENGER So You Think You Can Dance, the 11time Primetime Emmy® Award-winning show that sparked America’s fascination with dance, is set to captivate audiences again this fall – live on tour – with more stops than ever before. Celebrating its momentous 11th season So You Think You Can Dance’s top 10 finalists will make their way across North America, performing in more than 70 cities. The show will be in Pensacola on Sunday, Nov. 30 at 7 pm. Tickets for this performance start at $57 and are available at the Saenger Theatre box office, or online at ticketmaster.com.
Through Jan. 4 PMA PRESENTS GUILD HALL: AN ADVENTURE IN THE ARTS This exhibition features paintings, sculptures, and works on paper by a variety of significant artists that lived and worked in East Hampton area on Long Island in New York over the past 140 years. Included among the artists represented in the collection are Chuck Close, April Gornik, Childe Hassam, Ibram Lassaw, Roy Lichtenstein, Thomas Moran, Jackson Pollock, Larry Rivers, David Salle, Andy Warhol, and Jane Wilson. For more information visit pensacolamuseum.org.
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GIVE NONPROFIT NEWS GET OUT AND GIVE
Nov. 15 EIGHTH ANNUAL “MILES OF MEMORIES” 5K RUN/WALK & 1MILE WALK DOWNTOWN Come to Seville Square Saturday, Nov.15, for the eighth annual “Miles of Memories” 5K run/walk. This event will raise money to benefit the Covenant Alzheimer’s Services. Early registration for the 5K run/walk is $20 or $10 for the 1-mile walk, day-of registration being $25 and $15 for each event, respectively. Participants and teams can pick up a registration form at Running Wild Pensacola. For more information, please call 438.9714.
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“PICK A BOWL” FOR MANNA AT PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE Help MANNA fight hunger at the Pensacola State College’s Anna Lamar Switzer Center for the Visual Arts by attending their “Pick a Bowl” fundraiser. The event will feature a variety of hand-crafted bowls by local artists for sale with gift wrapping available for the holiday season. Each bowl purchase of $30 allows MANNA to provide a week’s worth of food to a hungry person. This event has no admission charge. However, an early-bird preview lunch will be held Nov. 14 from 11 am2 pm for $30, which includes one bowl plus lunch while supplies last. For more information, please visit mannafoodpantries.org.
5K WALK AND RUN PROMOTING FAMILIES AND ADOPTION FamilyFirst Network will hold their fourth annual Footprints to a Forever Family 5K run and walk at Bayview Park. The 5K run/walk will begin at 9 am, with a children’s fun run beginning at 10:30 am. An award ceremony will take place after, with music, snacks, drinks, door prizes, and more. Registration is $20 for walkers and runners through Nov. 16. Long-sleeve tshirts will be given to the first 200 registered people. Registration from Nov. 17 through the day of the race is $25. There is no charge for the fun run. All proceeds from this event benefit FFN’s adoption services. For more information, please visit footprints5krun-walk.kintera.org.
NATIONAL FLIGHT ACADEMY LAUNCHES CAPITAL CAMPAIGN Looking to improve its program, the National Flight Academy (NFA) launched a $2.5 million capital campaign that will fund an expansion that will present additional overnight accommodations, high-tech classrooms, network flight simulators and more to their program. The NFA inspires 7th-12th grade students to take serious interest in science, technology, engineering, and mechanics (STEM) fields in an aviation-
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adventure themed environment, creating an exciting learning experience. For more information about the NFA, please call 458.7836 or visit nationalflightacademy.com.
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ADOPTS A PARK Joining the City of Pensacola and Recreation’s Adopt-a-Park Program, the Florida Department of Health cleaned up the shoreline at Sanders Beach on Oct. 17 as part of their “Florida Health Cleans Up!” statewide employee initiative. FDOH employees form teams and clean more than 120 miles of beach twice a year. The goal is to get people active while emphasizing how small choices can impact your health and environment. For more information on how you can keep Pensacola beautiful by adopting a community park, please call Tim Land at 436.5678.
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THE ARC GATEWAY RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION CommStructures, Inc generously donated $50,000 to the Arc Gateway Foundation. The Arc Gateway Foundation is dedicated to the financial stability of Arc Gateway so their programs and services will continue to serve persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Arc Gateway has been in operation since 1954 and donations have provided them with longevity. For more information, please visit arc-gateway.org.
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Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Johnson
FOO FOO FESTIVAL 12 Days Art • Music • Culture By Christian Pacheco
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Only in Pensacola could the Blue Angels, Cher, Ghostbusters, and modern art and music all come together to create a one-of-a-kind autumn experience. The Pensacola Foo Foo Festival will take over the city from Nov. 6-17. The event’s alliterative name comes from a 19th-century sailing term describing an impromptu musical band comprised of shipmen, according to the festival website. The festival itself is actually an accumulation of many other popular festivals and happenings during the month of November. Fall staples like the Frank Brown International Songwriter’s Festival, Pensacola Marathon and Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival are all under the Foo Foo banner. Lesser-known events and groups also have a chance to shine with the assistance of Arts, Culture and Entertainment, Inc. “ACE has a couple of different grant programs,” said David Bear, president of ACE. “One of the programs was specific to the Foo Foo Festival. And those grants were for organizations to either sort of beef up their programs during that November time frame when the festival was going to occur and/or for other organizations to create events to do during that time frame.” According to Bear, $1,000 grants are available for new and emerging nonprofit organizations so that they can put on cultural programming. Several art exhibits benefit from the festival exposure such as Against the Odds: The Art of the Highwaymen, sponsored by the University of West Florida Historic Trust; An Adventure in the Arts: Travelling Exhibit, sponsored by the Pensacola Museum of Art; and the ninth annual Glass Jam, a glassblowing and pottery demonstration presented by the First City Art Center. Two of the most anticipated events are also polar opposites. The Blue Angels will take to the air for their Homecoming Air Show Nov. 7-9, celebrating 100 years of naval aviation. The high-octane performance usually has the largest attendance of all of the involved events, and with the show taking place on Veterans Day weekend, it’s one of the most popular, Bear said. On the same weekend, starting on Nov. 6, Paintscaping will be on display at, or rather, on the Artel Gallery. According to the festival website, Paintscaping is a 3D video-mapping exhibit that projects images onto buildings and other irregular surfaces. The company has completed projects for clients like Sony Pictures, the Los Angeles Kings, Ritz-Carlton and Cirque du Soleil. International celebrities will also be on-hand for the Foo Foo Festival. Ernie Hudson of Ghostbusters fame will be the special guest at a screening of the classic film during the Pensacola Pop Expo on Nov. 15. On nov. 17, multi-award winning musical artist Cher will be performing at the Pensacola Bay Center as a part of her “Dressed to Kill” tour. “The intent of this festival is to drive tourism, to put heads in beds, during a period of time when we have very little tourism,” Bear said. “The November time frame is what everybody has traditionally called either the offseason or the shoulder season, and we’re trying to re-coin it with the phrase ‘extended season.’” Bear also emphasized that the Foo Foo Festival is meant to tap into cultural tourism, which encompasses a market he said goes largely unnoticed in favor of sports and beach tourism during the year. Jane Birdwell, CEO of the Birdwell Agency, which serves as the Foo Foo Festival’s curator (event coordinator), shares Bear’s sentiments about rebranding Pensacola’s offseason. “We should never describe any time of year in Pensacola as an offseason,” Birdwell said, commenting that April, May, October and November can be just as profitable as the summer tourism season. She also noted that the group of festivities will also bring groups with diverse racial backgrounds, cultural heritage and sexual orientation together in the spirit of cultural tourism. Check out some of our Editor’s Picks on the following pages. For more about the Foo Foo Festival and a full schedule of events, visit foofoofest.com or contact Curator@acepensacola.org.
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3D VIDEO-MAPPING PROJECTION DATE: Nov. 6 - 9, 7 pm - 9:30 pm LOCATION/WEB: Artel Gallery / artelgallery.org TICKETS: Free Artel Gallery and The Art Gallery (TAG) UWF have teamed up with world-renowned 3D projection mapping specialist “Paintscaping,” to bring Foo Foo Fest a large-scale 3D video projection mapping to Pensacola for the first time ever! Paintscaping uses revolutionary techniques to transform the world in ways never before possible. Some call it spatial augmented reality. They say it’s a new paradigm in lighting, advertising, and entertainment that will leave Foo Foo Fest attendees awestruck. 3D projection is an emerging art form that allows artists to make any surface their canvas. Video images are projected onto irregular surfaces – most often buildings. The projection presents an alternate reality of what is on or in the space. For three nights in November, this experiential art work will envelope the facade of the old Escambia County courthouse, now the Artel Gallery, into this alternate reality.
FRANK BROWN INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITER’S FESTIVAL DATE: Nov. 6 - 16 (Show Times Vary) LOCATION/WEB: Multiple Locations / frankbrownsongwriters.com TICKETS: Prices vary per venue Grammy Award winning songwriters and the up and coming stars of tomorrow come into the spotlight to perform original songs in multiple locations in beautiful Perdido Key, Pensacola, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Festival attendees enjoy an up close and personal concert experience and are often able to learn the stories behind the songs as told by the original author. Venues of all kinds welcome over 200 songwriters that come from around the country and world. Whether you are looking for a “listening room” experience, a pleasant dinner and music venue, a family friendly musical adventure or a gritty roadhouse, the songwriter’s festival has a place for you. Most venues are free to attend; a few charge a modest cover at the door.
PENSACOLA MESS HALL GOES “GOURMET” DATE: Nov. 6 from 6-9pm LOCATION/WEB: Pensacola MESS Hall / pensacolamesshall.org/ TICKETS: $150 per person Join the Pensacola MESS (Math, Engineering, Science & Stuff) Hall for a special event combining science and food, Pensacola MESS Hall Goes Gourmet powered by Gulf Power. This fun and unique fine dining experience features Pensacola’s favorite local chefs as they highlight the science behind their original menu creations. It’s not only a new, entertaining science adventure, but a unique fundraising program for Pensacola’s premier children’s museum, the Pensacola MESS Hall! Guests will be welcomed with a cocktail reception inside the Pensacola MESS Hall. Following the reception, guests will be seated for dinner. During dinner, guest chefs will provide live cooking demonstrations, explaining the scientific principles behind their cooking techniques.
THE GREAT GULFCOAST ARTS FESTIVAL DATE: Nov. 7 – 9, from 9 am - 5 pm (Fri. and Sat.) 9 am - 4 pm (Sun.) Children’s Festival: Sat. & Sun. 10 am - 4 pm LOCATION/WEB: Seville Square / ggaf.org TICKETS: Free The Great GulfCoast Arts Festival (GGAF) has long been one of the South’s premier art festivals, bringing thousands of visitors to Historic Downtown Pensacola. In addition to the main art show, located in Seville Square, the event features a heritage arts festival, live entertainment from a variety of local dance and music organizations and regional musicians throughout the weekend, a Children’s Art Festival, a display of artwork by Escambia and Santa Rosa students, food from the best local restaurants and vendors, and a featured invited International artist who each year gives a lecture and visits local schools. This event is free to visitors.
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BLUE ANGELS HOMECOMING AIR SHOW DATE: Nov. 7, 8 and 9 LOCATION/WEB: NAS Pensacola / blueangels.navy.mil TICKETS: Free: Seated Tickets Available The 2014 NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is held on Nov. 7, 8 and 9, 2014. This year, NAS Pensacola is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Established in 1914, NAS Pensacola was the first air station commissioned by the Navy for the training of aviators in the infancy of Naval Aviation. The 2014 Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show will be the center piece of this year-long celebration. It will feature a variety of performers showcasing the best in both military and civilian aviation, of course highlighted by the final 2014 performances by our home based Blue Angels. This year starts with the Night Show on Friday night complete with night time aircraft and performers capped off by the largest fireworks display in the Pensacola area. In a change from the Friday/Saturday day shows in the past, this year the day performances featuring the Blue Angels are on Saturday and Sunday.
FOO FOO ON FIRE AND PECHA KUCHA DATE: Nov. 8, from 5 pm – 10 pm LOCATION/WEB: First City Art Center / firstcityart.org TICKETS: $20 - covers food and beverage, and guests will also receive a souvenir glass or pottery piece First City Art Center presents the ninth Annual “Glass Jam,” an opportunity to see live glass blowing, pottery demonstrations, and learn from the guest artists. Guests will be treated to food, music and drink. First City will also launch a new program called “Pecha Kucha.” An international phenomenon taking place in over 700 cities around the world, Pecha Kucha is described as the world’s biggest physical social network. It consists of presenters sharing 20 slides for 20 seconds each. It is an event series that First City will conduct through the year and is aimed at all creative people. FCAC works to engage and invite the community to participate in the creative process at a “working” art center through a broad range of studio classes, workshops and outreach programs. FCAC provides opportunities for people to create through glassblowing, glass bead making, clay sculpting, and wheel and hand-build pottery. Their role is to serve as an artistic “hatchery” for many forms of art creation including glass, pottery, music and visual arts. Tickets are $20, and this covers food and beverage, and guests will also receive a souvenir glass or pottery piece. THE ART OF THE CON DATE: Nov. 13 from 5-7pm LOCATION/WEB: Mainline Art House / mainlinearthouse.com TICKETS: Free Mainline Art House is teaming with Pensacon, to create a Ghostbuster themed, juried art show. There will be an opening reception for the public and participating artists on Nov. 13. This show will tie in with Pensacon’s planned Pensacola Pop Expo on Saturday, Nov. 15.
THE PENSACOLA POP EXPO DATE: Nov. 15, from 12 pm - 10 pm LOCATION/WEB: Seville Quarter and Mainline Art House / pensacon.com TICKETS: Free, Non-perishable food donation for Manna Food Pantries encouraged The “Pensacola Pop Expo 2014 featuring Ghostbuster Ernie Hudson,” benefiting Manna Food Pantries: Building on the success of the first ever Pensacon and the first “Heroes for Hunger” event, this group of enthusiastic fans of the sci-fi and comic book landscape will welcome local, regional and nationally known artists from this genre, including special guest Ernie Hudson (Winston from Ghostbusters) for Foo Foo Fest. Comic book artists, vendors, food, drinks, cosplay, performances, and demonstrations will be set up in a festival atmosphere in popular entertainment venue Seville Quarter, allowing visitors a personal experience with art and popculture, while also exposing them to downtown Pensacola’s charm. In celebration of the Ghostbusters 30th Anniversary, there will also be Art of The Con, a Ghostbusters themed art show hosted by Mainline Art House, and in the evening, a free outdoor screening at Seville Quarter of Ghostbusters with special guest Ernie Hudson in attendance.
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BACK ON THE BLOCKS: BLOCK PARTY DATE: Nov. 11-15 LOCATION/WEB: Belmont DeVilliers / Neighborhood / backontheblocks.com TICKETS: One event is ticketed at $10 and $15 “Back on the Blocks” is a five day celebration of art, film, dance and music in the historic Belmont DeVilliers Neighborhood and highlights the entertainment, culture and history of this historic African-American neighborhood, from Nov. 11-15. Visitors will share in the making of a public mural, studio performance, street musicians, film festival, author talks and an oldfashioned block party. More than 100 musicians, artists, authors, poets, film makers, and dancers will entertain festival goers during this inaugural five-day festival for locals and tourists. The festival is open to the public and begins every day at 10 am. From the first day, festival attendees will experience working muralists and street artists; rhythm and blues, jazz, blues and many other music forms and film festival of 10 minute shorts. The festival rounds out the week with nationally known authors, a special studio performance of dance and percussion and ends with a jam session with open mic on Friday night and a block party on Saturday afternoon. All of the festival events happen in Belmont-DeVilliers, a historic community known for its authentic music, diverse entertainment and culturally rich food.
JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL DATE: Nov. 14 (6 pm - 11 pm); Nov. 15 (10 am - 5 pm); and Nov. 16 (2 pm - 7 pm) LOCATION/WEB: Pensacola Little Theatre; West Florida Public Library-Main Branch; and The Tree House Cinema / jasnwfl.org TICKETS: Free The Japanese Film Festival is a two-day celebration of Japanese cinema, which will include a variety of classic and contemporary films and anime. In addition to the movies, visitors will be exposed to Japanese cuisine and cultural demonstrations.
AN ADVENTURE IN THE ARTS: TRAVELING EXHIBIT DATE: Nov. 6 – 17, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. LOCATION/WEB: Pensacola Museum of Art / pensacolamuseum.org TICKETS: $10 adults and $8 for children 17 & under, museum members, seniors, and military. An Adventure in the Arts, a traveling exhibit from the Guild Hall Museum in East Hampton, N.Y., begins Oct. 3 and runs through Jan. 4, 2015. This exhibition features paintings, sculptures, and works on paper by a variety of significant artists that lived and worked in East Hampton area, on Long Island, in New York over the past 140 years. Included among the artists represented in the collection are Chuck Close, April Gornik, Childe Hassam, Lee Krasner, Ibram Lassaw, Roy Lichtenstein, Thomas Moran, Jackson Pollock, Larry Rivers, David Salle, Andy Warhol, and Jane Wilson. Admirers of modern and contemporary art will be fulfilled in their experience with this exhibition. The Museum’s Permanent Collection comprises 19th and 20th century works by Alexander Calder, Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Leonard Baskin, Salvador Dali, Thomas Hart Benton, Louis Comfort Tiffany, Käthe Kollwitz, John Marin, Miriam Schapiro, Fairfield Porter, Alex Katz, Lynda Benglis, Milton Avery and many more. The museum also owns decorative arts collections of European and American glass and African art. Cost to attend is $12 for adults and $8 for children.
DIVAS DATE: Nov. 6 – 9; & 11-13 LOCATION/WEB: Pensacola Little Theatre / balletpensacola.com TICKETS: $19 - $31 Ballet Pensacola has added a new performance to their annual repertoire specifically for Foo Foo Fest. An original ballet choreographed by Richard Steinert, Ballet Pensacola’s artistic director, entitled Divas, will be inspired and focus on current, pop-culture female vocalists and modern-day Divas. One of the hallmarks of Steinert’s style is the graceful marriage of theatre and dance, having created over 35 original ballets in his repertoire. Ballet Pensacola will host a “Director’s Circle” event on Nov. 6 at 6 pm, on the third floor of the Pensacola Cultural Center. While the Director’s Circle event is free and open to the public, all attendees must RSVP by emailing Raven Holloway, at ravenholloway@balletpensacola.com, or by calling 432.9546. Divas will have three performances on Nov. 7 and 9, at 7:30 pm; and Nov. 8 at 1:30 pm. Tickets range from $19 – $31, and can be purchased by contacting the Pensacola Cultural Center box office. Ballet Pensacola also welcomes Foo Foo Fest patrons to attend their open rehearsals, Nov. 11-13, from 11 am to 1 pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to get a behind the scenes look at the work that goes into a ballet performance.
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By Emily Lullo
Elizabeth Fleischhauer
Erik Petersen
Cerys Heroman
Jonathan Thompson
Nicole St. Aubin
Back in 2006 there was a certain galvanizing spirit taking hold in Pensacola, especially in the downtown area. The Community Maritime Park Associates were starting to take action on that long awaited project and business people were making significant investments that would lead to a resurgence in the area that would engage visitors and locals alike. But there was a crucial missing piece to the puzzle of the city’s success. November 2014
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At that time, many people commented that Pensacola’s greatest export was talented young people, who were known to stay in town long enough to attend the University of West Florida before leaving the city to pursue goals in more bustling or progressive areas. There was no unifying organization that connected the talented young people who chose to stay in Pensacola to one another, nor was there a defined way for established businesses and groups to find a source of energetic young professionals from which to find prospective employees or board members. Enter the Pensacola Young Professionals. The group filled the void for a unifying force of emerging and active leaders between the ages of 21 and 40. Jonathon Thompson, current president of PYP and a member since 2006, says the group defines itself and its twofold mission statement. The first part of that is a shared passion for the Pensacola Bay Area. “We believe in it, we want to see it grow and develop, and we recognize the great things that it has now and also the potential that it has,” says Thompson. “The second half of our mission is that our members want to be catalysts for positive change in the community.” The opportunities afforded to young people that join PYP are both internal and external. Thompson says the group has four areas of focus, the first being networking. With almost 300 members, there are plenty of valuable networking events that connect the community of driven young people. The second focus is volunteering, which ties in with the group’s overall mission of being agents for change in the community and giving back to the Pensacola area, whether it’s through organized events with area nonprofits or just the large number of individuals doing volunteer work in their free time. The third focus is professional development. With a Board of Directors and a variety of teams, there are plenty of positions that help members gain leadership experience, and programs like the Pensacola Professional Development Institute offer seminars and workshops that focus on professional and personal growth. In this way, PYP acts as an incubator for the next and sometimes current batch of business and civic leaders. The fourth area that PYP works in is empowering young professionals to have an impact on the decision-making that goes into moving the community forward. “Prior to 2006, young people really didn’t have a voice in the community,” Thompson says. “A lot of organizations didn’t have young people representing them on their boards, there was no concerted voice for young people that could speak at City Council or at County Commission meetings or represent the younger generations at the chamber or any of these places.” PYP gives community organizations a pool of engaged and energetic talent to pull from when seeking out board members, and banding together has worked, with several organizations asking PYP leadership directly for able candidates. A January poll of members found that 45 different boards on the area have at least one PYP member, and they range from the nonprofits and arts organizations like the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra to the CMPA board and government advisory boards. “We realize that we need to be engaged and vocal within the community about what we want and what young professionals need to make this a viable community for our generation,” Thomspon says. PYP takes an interest in what’s going right and what could be improved in the community, not just for young professionals but for the greater population as well. It does this through its Better Pensacola Quality of Life Forum, which produces an annual survey conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research, Inc. Eighthundred registered voters in Escambia County participate and the resulting data is published in print and is also available on
PYP’s website. The survey let respondents rate the performance of various governmental bodies and individuals as well as quality of life factors and areas of concern. Topping the areas of concern was the economy and jobs, but also high on the list was education, an area where Thompson and other PYP leaders agreed their group could make a difference. The overarching project of trying to improve student outcomes in Escambia County has many component parts, spearheaded by different teams in the organization. One part of that plan attacks the problems early by working with kids in voluntary pre-kindergarten programs. “The recent Metro Report that came out from the Studer Institute verified what we already knew and there was a piece about what’s the number one thing our community can do to improve education and it was to produce literate and numerate five-year-olds,” Thompson says. PYP members work with Every Child A Reader in Escambia (ECARE), a business-led and volunteer-driven initiative, to read with children ages 3-5 in the VPK program at the Head Start facility downtown. The hope is this engagement will produce a measurable impact on children and leave them better prepared for kindergarten, thus promoting greater academic success and a greater probability of graduating high school.
PYP takes an interest in what’s going right and what could be improved in the community, not just for young professionals but for the greater population as well. Additionally, the Quality of Life team and its chair Jon Pytynia are working to promote literacy by installing Little Free Libraries—often whimsically decorated miniature “libraries” that anyone can visit to drop off or borrow books. One will be placed at the Head Start facility and a few others are planned for the future. The Economic Development team is working with the school system to help with efforts to bolster career academy programs and options that give students workforce experience and certifications in their chosen field. Nicole St. Aubin, the vice president of community affairs on the PYP board, is coordinating volunteers for this month’s Career Academy School Choice Expo, where PYP members in various industries will team up with career academy booths in their field to give information and answer questions for prospective students hoping to enroll. “It’s to inspire them,” St. Aubin says. “The school board asked us to join them in this to show hip, young people that found success in their educational choices and career mindfulness to get them thinking about the future.” St. Aubin recently helped host a candidate forum with the Seville Rotary and the Pensacola Chamber, which was aimed at getting younger people to the polls and to promote the half cent sales tax ballot initiative for Escambia schools, the only political item on which the group takes an official stance. Because the money generated goes to building new schools and enhancing the school system, St. Aubin says it has overwhelming support among members. Workforce development for younger students extends also to a job readiness seminar series that target at-risk young people. The program partners with PACE Center for Girls, Youthworks,
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PYP volunteers at last November’s inaugural Field Day
PYPers who helped organize and lead the local showing of Leadercast.
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Escambia Boys’ Base and others, and is headed by the PYP board’s vice president of programs Deborah Brousseau. “The first one is resumés and interviewing, so we’ll go into local nonprofits and speak about how to put together a proper resume and different things you can do to increase your employability,” says Brousseau. “We go over everything from having a professional email address to your online image to actual questions they can practice answering.” Students come to the first hour-long seminar dressed in interview clothes with a resumé that they can get one-on-one feedback for improving. The second seminar deals with personal finance and how to save and budget once a paycheck is earned, and the final in the series deals with professionalism and ethics, and how to behave once in a professional environment. Brousseau says they’ve gotten plenty of positive feedback from participants in the program, all of whom get a certificate of completion which they can add to their resumés. Students that complete it also get a gift to complete interview outfits, like a tie for boys and a professional handbag for girls. “We had two girls at the PACE Center that had job interviews on the evening of the seminar and they were very interactive with us,” she says. “When they came back, they had a handwritten note card a couple days later because both of the girls had gotten their jobs, so it’s great to see the fruits of that program.” Another organization that focuses on at-risk youth in the area is Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, a nonprofit that pairs young people with a mentor for one-on-one weekly meetings, either at school or outside the classroom to make a measurable impact on the young person’s life. While there are several members that volunteer as mentors with BBBS, PYP board Quality of Life chair Jon Pytynia says that many weren’t sure they could make the yearlong weekly commitment that BBBS requires of mentors, but a group wanted to do something specifically for the organization. They decided on a field day event, and last year brought the inaugural FunFilled Field Day. The second annual Fun-Filled Field Day will be held Nov. 15, 2014. PYP members draw from resources within the organization to come up with a budget to rent out Seville Square for the day and organize a day of activities and fun for bigs and littles to enjoy. “We just tried to throw them a fun day where the kids can be kids, bigs could
watch their littles play and get involved with them and do something different,” Pytynia says. “It’s a unique opportunity one day a year to get the kids out and about and having a good time.” The day includes classic field day fun like three-legged races, tug of war, limbo, and water balloons, as well as face painting, arts and crafts, food vendors, and a photo booth. The MESS Hall also comes with an activity for kids, and this year will include a theme of healthy living where ProClinic and other health professionals will be on hand to help promote healthy lifestyles. Last year the event also teamed up with Families First to involve children that were in need of adoptive homes and prospective families, with great success. “We had four adoptions committed to that day,” Pytynia says “When the parents got to see the kids just be kids, it just brought it home for them that this is a child that needs a family, and they just want to be kids and have fun at that part of their lives.” The initiative to improve education and workforce outcomes for children and students in Escambia County has many moving parts, each spearheaded by the different teams and programs under the growing PYP umbrella. It’s the first time the group has had a specific focus that can unite its considerably varied constituent parts, but with teams focusing on different age groups or factors in the puzzle of education, many levels of the challenge can be addressed. Additionally, PYP members continue to engage in a variety of other programs and initiatives outside of this one, a testament to the vigor behind this group. As the Pensacola Young Professionals continues to grow and evolve as an organization, their reach will undoubtedly grow more expansive. At once an organization that connects young professionals with each other for socializing, a talent pool for business leaders, and a catalyst for change in the Pensacola community, the diverse organization is more focused on its mission than ever before. PYP is focusing its substantial energies on areas that can make a massive impact on the future of this community, and with their drive, creativity and the power that comes with establishing a united front, the investment they’re making today will likely pay off in the not-so-distant future when they’re the top leaders and decision-makers of the Pensacola Bay Area.
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Pensacola Scene
Juke Box Gala party at the North Hill home of Harry and Pam Schwartz
Pam and Harry Schwartz, Glenys Ballinger and Nan Harper
WSRE Wine and Food Classic
Charlie Bockwith and Tracey Barnes
Rat Pack sponsor party at the home of Moose and Lyn Morris
Gay and Bo Carter
Jerre and John Peacock
Pete and Angela Moore
Carmen Jones and Phillip Morris
Mayor Aston Hayward and John Peacock
Hosts Moose and Lyn Morris
Rat Pack Reunion at New World Landing
Jim and Pamela Homyak
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Moose Morris, Meredith Nobles with Dad Jack
Proud parents to be Roger and Raisa Webb
WSRE Wine and Food Classic
Blake Rushing and Tricia Horton
Aimee Wilson and Joe Abston
Sue Shattuck and Betsy LeGallais
2014 Greek Festival of Pensacola
Krissy Kritselis and Athena Staviski
Sam Barrineau and Amy Culver
Kayla VanLandingham and Cynthia Wittig
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