The Holidays Don't Have To Be a Drag with the House of Androgyny
winners & losers
During the holiday season, we felt it was only fitting to publish an all-winners version of this column. We are fortunate to live in such a generous community.
GULF WINDS CREDIT UNION On Giving
Tuesday, the credit union presented a $5,000 donation to the Council on Aging of West Florida, completing a $10,000 gift to support programs helping seniors maintain independent, healthy lives. The presentation concluded a month-long matching campaign benefiting the nonprofit, which has served aging adults in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties for over 50 years through programs including Meals on Wheels, The Retreat and Senior Companion services. Council on Aging President and CEO Josh Newby said, "We are so grateful for the support Gulf Winds has shown through continuous donations and hands-on effort. Together, we are changing lives and giving aging adults the opportunity to thrive."
FILL THE MAYFLOWER
The 18th Annual Fill
the Mayflower food and funds drive, presented by Coastal Moving and Storage and benefitting Manna Food Bank, was a huge success, raising the equivalent of nearly 50,000 healthy meals for neighbors in need in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Food collected during Fill the Mayflower at Cordova Mall will be distributed through Manna's pantry and 18 food security programs in the two-county area. Manna Executive Director DeDe Flounlacker said, "Fill the Mayflower 2025 raised the food and funds we need to feed the hungry in the coming months, when we expect requests for food assistance to increase. We are so grateful to the Northwest Florida community for generously supporting this event and continuing to show an amazing capacity to help those in need."
FLORIDA HEIKEN CHILDREN'S
VISION
PROGRAM The program visited Escambia County to provide free comprehensive eye exams and prescription glasses to local students who are uninsured or underinsured. These services were offered at no cost to families, and a licensed doctor along with a trained technician visited seven elementary schools: Ferry Pass, Bratt, R.C. Lipscomb, L.D. McArthur, Ensley, Myrtle Grove and Oakcrest. The Florida Heiken Children's Vision eye health program, a division of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, has provided invaluable support to financially disadvantaged schoolchildren throughout Florida since
1992. Over 227,000 comprehensive eye exams and more than 163,000 pairs of prescription glasses have been distributed at no cost to students.
LEVIN PAPANTONIO
The law firm continued its long-standing tradition of seasonal giving with a $25,000 donation to Communities Caring at Christmas, a local program dedicated to helping families in Escambia County during the holiday season. For decades, Communities Caring at Christmas has been a source of support for families facing hardship during the holidays. Through partnerships with local businesses, donors and volunteers, the program provides toys, food and essential resources to children and families who might otherwise go without.
NORTHWEST FLORIDA GUARDIAN AD LITEM FOUNDATION
The nonprofit announced that its two signature fall events in Niceville in Pensacola raised over $119,000 to support abused, abandoned and neglected children in foster care across Walton, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Escambia counties. The funds directly benefit more than 1,500 children the foundation serves annually, helping meet essential needs that state funding cannot, such as clothing, therapeutic services, educational enrichment, extracurricular activities, dental and medical necessities and other support that allows children to thrive during uncertain times. For more information about the Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation or to get involved, visit nwfgal.org.
PENSACOLA DREAM CENTER
The nonprofit has announced its upcoming Christmas outreach event, "Homeless Christmas Shoe Blessing," aiming to provide practical love, dignity and hope to those experiencing homelessness in the Pensacola community. At 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20, the Dream Center will host a special Christmas celebration at the Alfred Washburn Center, 31 Murphy Lane, where 380 brand-new pairs of shoes will be given to homeless individuals. For many attendees, walking is their primary means of transportation, and these shoes may be the only Christmas gift they receive this year. For more information or to get involved, contact the Pensacola Dream Center at info@pensacoladreamcenter.org or visit pensacoladreamcenter.org.
Photo Courtesy of Gulf Winds Credit Union
outtakes
By Rick Outzen
WHY CREATE A PROBLEM?
A Thanksgiving weekend arrest has set the stage for a First Amendment battle between Food Not Bombs and the City of Pensacola over weekly meal distributions in Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza.
Mike Kimberl, who has participated in and helped facilitate Friday community potlucks for 14 years, was arrested Nov. 28 after refusing to provide identification to a police officer who told him the gathering violated city ordinances prohibiting park use after sunset.
The incident sparked immediate controversy over enforcement of rules that many didn't know existed. People questioned why the Pensacola Police Department (PPD) chose to enforce the curfew on a holiday weekend, with food pantries' and nonprofits' resources stretched and SNAP benefits in limbo.
Why did PPD create this headache without consulting Mayor D.C. Reeves, who will have to resolve it?
THANKS, BUT NO
THANKS On Dec. 5, Mayor Reeves thought he had handled the issue. He posted on social media that "an individual has stepped up to obtain a permit to ensure the good work of assisting those in need at MLK Plaza can continue." The mayor called it "a positive and harmonious resolution to what is an ambiguous situation."
Within hours, Food Not Bombs announced it would not accept the permit. The group wrote on social media: "Our weekly protest with a shared meal is protected by the First Amendment. Sharing food is always an unregulated gift of compassion."
Food Not Bombs added, "We refuse this permit and believe the mayor's announcement neglects to address that citizens cannot walk through or rest in MLK Plaza without fear of harassment by police."
THE ARREST The confrontation unfolded on the Friday after Thanksgiving when Officer William Roper approached Kimberl during the food distribution. Body camera footage shows Roper explaining that city parks close at dark and the gathering constituted a misdemeanor violation.
"I'm not going to kick you out tonight; I'm not like that," Roper told Kimberl. Kimberl responded that Food Not Bombs had
operated at the location for over a decade without problems. He told the officer, "You're causing a problem where there hasn't been a problem."
The exchange grew tense when Kimberl questioned why the officer would not exercise discretion and allow the charitable work to continue. When Kimberl refused to provide identification for Roper to issue a warning, the officer arrested him.
At a press conference following the arrest, Mayor Reeves stated, "This particular incident was rooted in some ambiguity. There was a handshake agreement from 14 years ago, and I tried to do my best for the sake of both parties to always get rid of handshake agreements and have some clarity."
The mayor defended the arresting officer's professionalism and said park closure rules exist for all 95 city parks.
However, city officials weren't blindsided by the issue. Last December, downtown business owner Dan Lindemann warned the mayor and city council about problems with enforcing the sunset curfew at MLK Plaza.
At a Dec. 12, 2024 council meeting, Lindemann recounted being stopped by a police officer while walking across the plaza to attend a community event. The officer warned him that the plaza was closed and that future violations could result in a misdemeanor charge carrying up to $1,000 in fines and 90 days in jail.
"I was insulted, and I think anybody that's a citizen in this city would be equally insulted that I cannot walk on a city sidewalk that you have invited me to enjoy," Lindemann told the council, urging immediate action to "get rid of this stupid thing."
On my blog, readers have questioned the sunset curfew. "If you believe that every person has equal rights, deserves dignity, and that feeding the homeless in a public park is a net positive, you extend MLK Plaza hours, just like several other City parks, to 9 p.m. or 10 p.m.," a reader commented. "Everyone can use the park for peaceful purposes up to a reasonable hour, while still preventing camping overnight. The ordinance becomes equitable and unambiguous. Enforcement is no more difficult."
We wait to see how Mayor Reeves resolves this. The PPD's role in this matter needs to be part of the conversation. {in} rick@inweekly.net
By Tom St. Myer
Rising costs of housing, utilities and groceries leave Escambia and Santa Rosa County resi dents stretching their paychecks. that stretch means choosing which bill to pay, which prescription to fill or which meal to skip.
FOOD INSECURITY SKYROCKETING
are on SNAP and 30% rely on other programs for food.
"Senior citizens are on a fixed income," Flounlaker said. "They can't go out and get a job. Prices are rising, so they have to make some tough decisions on what to do."
Council on Aging of West Florida has seen an increase in food insecurity among seniors. The nonprofit organization served over 100,000 meals at its dining sites in the past year, up about 25,000 from the previous year. The number of individuals served increased by about 200 over that same period, according to its marketing communications director, Emily Echevarria. She said the program has a waitlist.
The demand is so great that the Council on Aging faced financial challenges and temporarily suspended Friday hot meals at its dining sites. A significant donation allowed the Council on Aging to resume the meals in November.
"We realize that oftentimes—and this is the case—that when the demand goes up, unfortunately, the resources have gone down for those nonprofits that are supporting these households," Gilliam said.
The cost of food is increasing just as rapidly as the demand. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Executive Director Paula Shell said her organization secures a $3,000 grant from Lockheed Martin each holiday season to feed families. In years past, Big Brothers Big Sisters spent $100 on each family. That $100 no longer buys a grocery cart full of food.
"One of my staff that manages it says $100 isn't getting anything anymore," Shell said. "The support we do get doesn't go far. That's why we feel like partnering with the likes of Manna Food Bank, where we know they're very conscientious about what they give and what families need."
Flounlaker said a misperception exists that most people struggling to afford food are also unemployed. The truth is that a significant percentage of the food-insecure, including 39% of those enrolled in SNAP, are working families.
rely on food stamps to help cover meal costs, but that only just touches the total number who barely make ends meet. Manna Food Bank Executive Director DeDe Flounlaker saw this up close and personal recently when her organization dropped off nearly 20,000 pounds of food between the military bases at Corry Station and Whiting Field. Over 30% of the recipients had never needed food assistance before, but that changed while on furlough during the government shutdown.
"There are a lot of families who live paycheck to paycheck, so when something happens that throws a wrench in it, it means everything kind of blows up," Flounlaker said.
The government shutdown impacted the 60,000 residents on food stamps, too, halting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, for a brief period in November. In response, nonprofits pulled their limited resources together to serve those in need. United Way of West Florida (UWWF) acted as the lead agent, launching an emergency relief fund for Escambia and Santa Rosa County residents reeling from missed paychecks and delayed SNAP benefits.
Gilliam continued, "We're seeing families, households that have not struggled in the past struggling … I've talked with our colleagues at the pantries and other organizations that are seeing households that they've never seen before, and a lot of times these are also folks who don't know where to turn for help because they've never had to. And so I think that it's harder and harder to make ends meet."
SNAP OVERHAUL
The increased demand drains nonprofits of their resources. Flounlaker said, "You never want to see the need go up and donations go down." Her concern is not the holiday season so much as the other days of the year. She said food insecurity is still a problem, whether it's Dec. 25 or March 25.
To complicate matters further, the number of residents who qualify for SNAP will potentially soon plummet and that will only increase the demand put on nonprofit organizations to assist the food-insecure population. In Florida, the average SNAP benefit per household member is $186 a month or $6.12 per day.
cipients must work, volunteer or participate in job training for at least 80 hours a month, or they will only be eligible to receive benefits for three months out of every three years.
So who will be impacted? Millions of people, according to a Congressional Budget Office analysis. The expanded work requirements will result in 2.4 million fewer Americans receiving food stamps in an average month over the next decade. That estimate includes 300,000 families with children. In Florida, nearly 13% of the population is enrolled in SNAP and children account for 39% of the recipients.
"There are so many things that can influence people needing assistance for food," Flounlaker said. "There are a lot of unknowns right now. That's scary for me as someone who is a leader because I worry about people, children and seniors. Are they going to be able to get that help?"
DEMAND UP, RESOURCES DOWN
Older adults are particularly dependent on SNAP. Forty percent of senior citizens in Florida
The "asset-limited, income-constrained, employed" (known as ALICE) population continues to increase in correlation with the prices for housing, utilities and food.
"Our perception of who's challenged financially needs to shift a little bit, because these are people that we run into every day who are having a hard time, and they're going to rely on those benefits," Gilliam said. "They're going to rely on that pantry just to help them get enough food on the table and make it to the next paycheck."
HOW TO HELP
UWWF has created the Emergency Relief Fund to address the growing crisis facing local families struggling with delayed SNAP benefits and missed paychecks. The fund will provide grants to local nonprofits serving families with food, utilities and housing assistance.
You can donate at uwwf.org/relief or mail contributions to UWWF, Emergency Relief Fund, 7100 Plantation Road, Ste. 18, Pensacola, FL 32504. {in}
Photo Courtesy of Manna Food Bank
Florida receive the emotional and psychological support they need for healing and well-being."
The grant will fund the Sacred Support program, which adds a licensed mental health therapist to the Children's Hospital staff. The therapist will provide support to children and families dealing with extended hospital stays, traumatic injuries or new medical diagnoses.
The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute's 2025 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps revealed that Escambia County has a higher rate of poor mental health days (6.2) in the past 30 days than the state and national average (5.1). The county's 2025 rate is higher than I reported two years ago (5.0). The Community Health Needs Assessment reports for 2022 and 2025 listed mental health issues as the #3 area of concern.
The program will serve children and families from 10 rural counties across Northwest Florida, where access to mental healthcare remains limited. Services will include individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions and parenting support.
"The program will offer individual, family and group therapy sessions, as well as parenting support," said Adrienne Maygarden, President of the Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation. "Sacred Support ensures that no child or family faces the emotional challenges of illness or injury alone."
The grant is one of eight mental well-being grants awarded by Florida Blue Foundation across the state. Susan Towler, executive director of the Florida Blue Foundation, said, "We are proud to
$2,000 to cover the band and police presence. Officers will need to close side streets as processionals move through, though east-west streets like Romana and Intendencia will remain open. Organizers are currently seeking sponsors to fund these weekly events throughout January and February. To learn more, visit pensacolamardigras.com.
VIVA TACOS MEXICANOS Gabe Hernandez has sold the popular Taco Mexicanos to Pablo Hernandez (no relation). The food truck will stay open through December while they work out the details. The "full hand off" will take place on Jan. 1. Gabe will remain involved on the brand level.
Gabe Hernandez, who started Taco Mexicanos in 2016, had set a Nov. 30 deadline to either find the right buyer or close the restaurant on his own terms. The business began almost as a joke when Hernandez and his wife moved to Pensacola and couldn't find good tacos. "You can't live here without tacos," he recalled telling his wife. "If nobody else is making them, then we're going to have to do it ourselves."
Ten years later, that joke turned into a thriving restaurant. But as Hernandez negotiated with potential buyers, an unlikely candidate emerged: Pablo Hernandez, who shares the same last name but no family relation.
"I just happened to be coming for lunch that day, and I saw Gabe talking to people in fancy suits," Pablo said. When he learned about the potential sale, he asked if he could make a bid, surprising Gabe, who knew Pablo wasn't in the restaurant business.
Education last week. Smith's hearing before the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee has not been set.
However, locals have written letters to the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee objecting to Smith's confirmation. Marcia Lindstrom, a former trustee of the Historic Pensacola Preservation Board and a lifelong Republican, shared her letter with Inweekly.
Lindstrom described Smith as "one of the most divisive nominees" and raised concerns about his conduct since joining the Pensacola State College Board of Trustees in February 2025 and UWF's board in May 2025.
She questioned the UWF presidential search process Smith chaired, which eliminated 83 of 84 candidates three weeks after the application deadline and named the interim president as the sole finalist. She called it "a sham proceeding" that should be analyzed, noting that Board of Governors regulation 1.002 requires at least three candidates.
The letter also raised questions about Smith's role in President Martha Saunders' resignation. Lindstrom wrote, "From his first board meeting just one day after his appointment, he raised issues intended to discredit the esteemed President Martha Saunders. Dr. Saunders subsequently resigned realizing her remaining time was fruitless. So a question immediately should be asked, how and when did Mr. Smith obtain so many details going back years."
Danny Zimmern, who has organized Pensac ola Mardi Gras with Amy Newman for 25 years, shared the modified parade route for the Krewe of Lafitte Parade on Friday, Feb. 13 and the Grand Mardi Gras Parade on Valentine's Day.
The route starts as it has traditionally done on Spring Street, heads to Garden Street, then north on Palafox Street to Wright Street before returning to Garden Street. Here's where it changes: Instead of turning south on Palafox as usual, parades will turn left (east) onto Garden, go one block to Jefferson Street, turn right and proceed south on Jefferson Street to Main Street.
The biggest challenge? The Jefferson Street Parking Garage won't be accessible once the streets close for the parade, eliminating a significant parking resource for Grand Parade spectators.
Mardi Gras wants to support downtown businesses during construction. Starting in January, the Mardi Gras community will host Tuesday night second-line processionals throughout the season.
These events will run in an oval pattern from Main to Garden on the sidewalks of South Palafox—the very street closed for construction. Three to four krewes will participate each Tuesday, rotating starting locations weekly to spread foot traffic evenly among businesses.
"The Mardi Gras crews are so fired up," Zimmern said. "Really, to sort of have an excuse to have some fun downtown for Mardi Gras, but also to support those downtown businesses. That's the big deal—we want everybody to be stronger coming out of this construction project."
Each Tuesday event costs approximately
Pablo, a military veteran who arrived in Pensacola in 2017, brings an eclectic background to his new venture. He runs a dog training company and a Latin entertainment company and has organized numerous festivals in the city.
"This kind of perfects what I've always wanted to do: work with music, dogs and now tacos," he said.
Pablo promises to keep the core menu unchanged while adding his own touches: a "dog menu" for canine guests, community festivals with piñatas and face painters and a large offset smoker for Tex-Mex-style barbecue.
"Taco Mexicanos is already its own entity presence in the community," Pablo said. "I'm just looking forward to adding to it."
Gabe will stay involved. "My role going forward will be kind of from afar to just support and help Pablo in anything that he needs," he said. "I would say for at least the next couple of years, [it'll help to] keep the integrity of the Tacos Mexicano brand, knowing that we have an owner onsite to execute and to actually look after the business."
Gabe added, "At the end of the day, I feel really good about finding out that Pablo was interested, being able to make this deal, negotiating quickly. I feel like it was a blessing that all of this kind of just came together."
OPPOSITION TO ZACK SMITH University of West Florida trustee Zack Smith must be confirmed by the Florida Senate during this legislative cycle. He missed his confirmation hearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher
Lindstrom listed a series of controversial actions spanning April through November 2024, including Smith pushing to deny a PSC faculty member sabbatical because he disagreed with poverty research; allegedly violating privacy of UWF faculty in tenure review due to disagreement with research subjects; and publishing articles in "The Daily Signal" attacking a holiday drag show and the City of Pensacola. In September, he criticized WSRE, the local PBS affiliate, and attacked Achieve Escambia, a nonprofit focused on education.
She expressed concerns about Smith's conflict of interest serving simultaneously on PSC and UWF boards, though both institutions serve the same market and have separate advocacy needs. With UWF adopting institutional neutrality policies, Lindstrom argues Smith's public comments on community events like the Saenger Theater drag show "clearly invalidate his ability to be neutral at a public university."
Lindstrom concluded by telling the lawmakers, "The role you play has never been more critical in guarding and protecting Florida's universities."
To follow the confirmation hearings, visit ricksblog.biz for updates.
BIZARRE BRINKS ROBBERY Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons joined the "(We Don't) Color on the Dog" podcast to discuss a "weird" Brinks armored vehicle theft. Unlike most Hollywood versions of armored car robberies, this crime came from within. The Brinks employee was assigned to deliver money to ATM machines throughout town and "was supposed to
Photo Courtesy of Ascension Sacred Heart
be given, I think, three or four bags, and he found out that they put one extra bag in his truck."
The suspect allegedly realized the error and saw an opportunity. "He only used the bags that he was supposed to have, and he had that extra bag and decided for some reason that, 'Hey, I think I'm going to steal this money,'" Simmons explained.
The bag contained approximately $104,000, primarily in $20 bills "wrapped in the little paper pieces that's got Brinks all over them."
The employee apparently didn't count on Brinks' sophisticated tracking system. "Brinks does a pretty good job of figuring out where all their bags are and who has what bags. And they have a lot of video surveillance," Simmons said. When Brinks contacted the Sheriff's Office about the missing $104,000, deputies moved quickly.
"We get to his house, and we see him pulling out and stop him," Simmons recounted. A search warrant revealed the evidence: "We saw bags of $20 bills that still had that paper wrapping with Brinks on it."
The suspect's plan was apparently simple but flawed—he quit his job immediately after the theft, told Brinks where his uniform would be and planned to spend the stolen money. "If you're a thief, you're a thief, and eventually you're going to get caught."
HOW TO RUN On Dec. 2, Escambia County Supervisor of Elections Robert Bender held a workshop for prospective candidates considering runs for local office in 2026. He walked attendees through the pre-filing and qualifying requirements that might trip up first-time candidates.
The workshop covered the distinction between pre-filing—what Bender calls "testing the waters"—and the actual qualifying period scheduled for June 2026. During the pre-filing phase, candidates can fundraise and gauge support, but they're not yet officially on the ballot.
"Once qualifying comes and goes and you've submitted all the paperwork to actually be on the ballot, that's final," Bender explained. The pre-filing period allows candidates flexibility to pivot or withdraw before making a final commitment.
An important early step involves filing a form appointing a campaign treasurer and establishing a dedicated campaign bank account—before collecting any contributions or gathering petition signatures. Bender warned that candidates who wait until the last minute often discover their bank won't accept candidate accounts or doesn't offer starter checks, which are required to pay the qualifying fee.
In 2024, John R. Johnson was disqualified from running for the District 3 County Commissioner seat held by Lumon May because Johnson paid his qualifying fee with a cashier's check.
The workshop also addressed common compliance issues, including advertising disclaimer requirements and the proper formatting for campaign signs. Candidates who aren't incumbents must include the word "for" between their name and the office they're seeking to avoid creating a false impression.
Residency requirements proved another frequent stumbling block, particularly for city council candidates. City charter rules require candidates to have lived in their district and been registered to vote there for a full year before qualifying—a requirement that has disqualified numerous candidates who moved into a district but forgot to update their voter registration.
"That is not the job of my office to validate addresses," Bender noted, explaining that his office's role is purely administrative, checking that forms are complete. Residency challenges must be filed with the city clerk for municipal races or with the Florida Elections Commission for other offices.
Bender stressed his office's commitment to confidentiality for prospective candidates and non-partisan assistance. Several people who consulted with his office about running for Congress earlier this year ultimately decided against it, and that information never leaked.
"There is no room for politics in here," Bender said. "My job is to represent the citizens of Escambia County, make sure that this office runs the way it's supposed to, that we follow the laws that we're supposed to and then that the legal votes get counted."
The Supervisor of Elections office provides guidance to all candidates regardless of party affiliation, maintaining its reputation as a trusted resource for anyone navigating the electoral process. Visit escambiavotes.gov for more information.
DOUBLE BRIDGE RUN Organizers say the 2026 Pensacola Double Bridge Run is on track to sell out. More than 2,300 participants from 43 states have already registered.
Hosted by Pensacola Sports, the Pensacola Double Bridge Run returns on Saturday, Feb. 7. The 15K begins with a warm-up and starts inside the Blue Wahoos Stadium, leading runners across two bridge spans—over Pensacola Bay and the Santa Rosa Sound—before finishing on Pensacola Beach.
For those seeking a shorter distance, the 5K race begins in Gulf Breeze and ends at Pensacola Beach, making it ideal for walkers, families, firsttimers and anyone ready to enjoy the experience.
Participants will encounter music along the course, enthusiastic volunteers and a lively beachfront finish line festival at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Every runner receives a long-sleeve tech shirt and commemorative finisher medal to mark their accomplishment.
"The Double Bridge Run is a legacy event for us," said Pensacola Sports President Ray Palmer. "We welcome elite athletes who travel great distances to compete, but the race is equally beloved by our local and regional running community. Seeing such strong early demand is incredibly exciting, and we hope to accommodate everyone who wants to be part of this iconic event."
Registrations are trending ahead of previous years, and race organizers expect to reach capacity. Runners are encouraged to register now to guarantee their spot at the starting line.
To register or learn more, visit pensacolasports.org/double-bridge-run. {in}
The
By Elizabeth Royappa
Holidays Don't Have To Be a Drag with the House of Androgyny
Top Row: Final Boy, H8Male & Pat MiDoun; Bottom Row: JayJay DuVay, Andy Rodginous & Thotberry Shortcake / Photos by Geoff Peck (@tinyobservations)
Christmas drag has been a hot topic in Pensacola recently, with local protestors and even a state official causing a ruckus over the Saenger's upcoming "Drag Queen Christmas" show.* Thankfully, that show is still going on as planned and our local drag performers weren't fazed either, so there's more than one wintery drag event you can support around town this season.
On Saturday, Dec. 13 at The Handlebar, the House of Androgyny will present their "HoHoHoliday Special," featuring nine performers all decked out in festive attire.
In the time-honored tradition of forming drag "houses" that function like artist collectives and adoptive families, event organizer Andy Rodginous heads the House of Androgyny. He performs under the tagline "Drag Thing of the Gulf Coast."
"I had been wanting to create my own show for a while, and [this past February] I had an opportunity to host a show at Betty's on Belmont for Pensacon," Rodginous said of his House's origin. "It did so incredibly well that everybody told me I should continue doing it. So I got with The Handlebar and Betty's and we kind of worked out to make it an every other month thing."
Since their Pensacon event, the House of Androgyny has been busy. Past show themes include "True Colors" (for Pride month), "Alice in Wonderland" and "Monster Mayhem."
As one of the area's first "drag kings/drag things," Rodginous said they work intentionally
to carve out performance space for other alternative artists.
"The biggest thing for me with making the show was that I wanted it to be as inclusive as possible," Rodginous explained. "Any kind of performer that wanted to come do something, all they have to do is reach out to me and I will find a place for them."
This approach has made the "HoHoHoliday" lineup extra special. Roughly half the performers are more seasoned entertainers whose names will be familiar to local drag enthusiasts, and the other half are relatively new faces.
Rodginous gave a sampling of several performance styles that audiences can expect: "You have myself representing the androgynous performer; you have JayJay DuVay representing drag kings; you have Wyntier Kandiey, who's representing pageant drag."
"H8Male is a really good representation for alternative drag that's very face, very comedybased," they continued. "Thotberry Shortcake, aka Thotberry Kingcake, will be my DJ for the evening … Read Hott Kandiey is still relatively new to the drag community, and so you're getting a lot of that polish that comes from being Wyntier Kandiey's [drag] daughter, but still the freshness of a brand new performer who's trying to figure out their vibe."
Pat MiDoun, Vai Oletta and Final Boy are also fairly new performers, and Rodginous is looking forward to watching them strut their stuff, too.
On the topic of local outcry against Christ-
mas drag, Rodginous is clear. "At the end of the day, drag is free speech, freedom of expression," he said. "[Local queen] Aniyah Jade Oshaans has gone to the city council every time it comes up for like two months now … it's such a huge waste of time to have to keep listening to this [pushback]. If it had been named 'Drag Queen Winter Wonderland,' it wouldn't even be a question. People are only upset about it because of the word 'Christmas' in there. But people celebrate this holiday all over the world in lots of different ways, so why is the drag community not allowed to celebrate it in their own way?"
"I know tons of drag performers that are very heavily religious; I know a drag performer whose husband's literally a pastor. They don't feel like their religion is being mocked because they know that's not the point of the show … the point of the show is about family, it's about inclusion, it's about celebrating the holiday in your own way."
Celebratory is exactly how the "HoHoHoliday Special" will feel. "The cast is super excited," Rodginous said. "We've all been going back and forth about who's going to do what number and who's going to do this crazy look, and I'm helping some of the performers actually make their costumes."
"I always tell people, even if you can't tip, cheering is free," they concluded. "If you're having a good time and you're cheering, screaming, hooting and hollering, then we're going to give you a hundred and fifty thousand percent in our performances. Whatever energy you give, we're going to give back to you tenfold." {in}
WHEN: 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13
WHERE: The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. COST: Tickets start at $10
DETAILS: @andy_rodginous, thehandlebar850.com
The Thot Factory Presents: A Thottie Christmas
WHAT: Interested in more holiday fun (and a costume contest) with some of the same performers? This 18+ show will be an open stage drag event hosted by Thotberry Kingcake, featuring Andy Rodginous, Lola Boleyn and more
WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20
WHERE: Jitterbug Beverage Co., 2050 N. 12th Ave.
COST: $10
DETAILS: @theth0tfactory
*For more on "Drag Queen Christmas," turn to page 14.
WHAT: An 18+ wintery drag celebration featuring Andy Rodginous, JayJay DuVay, H8Male, Read Hott Kandiey, Wyntier Kandiey, Thotberry Shortcake, Final Boy, Vai Oletta and Pat MiDoun
Arts & Entertainment
tation over free speech, religion and the meaning of public Christmas celebrations as the popular tour launches its 38-city run.
For host Nina West, the controversy underscores a mission that now feels more urgent
art, film, music, stage, books and other signs of civilization...
The Show Goes On
Lydia B. Kollins and Bosco; and legends like Shea Couleé, Crystal Methyd and "Canada's Drag Race" host Brooke Lynn Hytes.
The cast is a deliberate mix of fresh faces and established queens.
"Fresh entertainers reinvigorate the tour [alongside] classic performers who return year after year. It's a wonderful rotation that keeps the show fresh and the audience engaged," West said.
West herself is a seasoned captain of the production, and she approaches each stop with care.
"I travel with a notebook that has cast info and fun facts about the city, so I can connect with the audience in each city. Every show is personalized for that crowd to provide a unique experience," she said. Her focus is on delivering what she sees as an essential tonic for the times. "It's a wonderful tour bringing hope, excitement and joy, which is much needed across the country," she said.
The Pensacola controversy began when University of West Florida Trustee Zack Smith wrote an article for "The Daily Signal" on July 22, calling the show "blasphemous." After the article's publication, citizens for and against the scheduled performance spoke during the public forums at several city council meetings.
At his weekly press conference on Oct. 14, Mayor D.C. Reeves said the city would not cancel the show. He said, "We're going to continue to follow the Constitution and the advice of our
The Pensacola City Council has backed the mayor's decision, and the Attorney General's November email didn't change their minds.
For West, a 25-year veteran of the art form, this moment is simply the latest chapter in drag's
"Being an artist means being misunderstood sometimes," she said. "It's part of the journey. You have to process criticism and decide what to keep and what to push aside. I'm probably an acquired taste, and that's okay. The hardest days are when people don't get me, but the best part is knowing there are those who truly see and understand my intention and heart. That connection with the audience is all any artist can hope for."
show and the spirit of the season. With characteristic wit, West reframed the debate: "Not everyone celebrates the same way. Some go to 'The Nutcracker,' others to 'A Drag Queen Christmas.' That diversity is valuable."
"If someone questions that," she mused, "I wonder about their holiday spirit. Did they get the lump of coal in their stocking?"
That intention manifests offstage too, through The Nina West Fund, which supports causes from healthcare access for LGBTQ+ youth to direct family aid.
West shared with Inweekly a powerful story of her fund's impact: "A lesbian couple from the Netherlands came to the U.S. for care and stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Columbus, Ohio. The foundation helped cover medical costs, and my shows raised enough for their family to go to Disney World for a reprieve from a serious battle affecting the whole family."
For West, this is the ripple effect of her platform. "I operate on the principles of time, talent and treasure. Giving what you can, whether that's money, volunteering or using your platform."
As the tour buses roll across the country this holiday season, the Pensacola show carries unique weight. It's become a performance of a civic—and, in its own way, a spiritual—principle. The city council has chosen free expression. Now, the performers will meet that commitment with celebration.
"Everyone in my community deserves to feel valued and know they matter. Our tour reaffirms that to our audience," West said. "We create a space to celebrate for two and a half hours, and remind people this is the season of light."
"If that's not how they want to spend their time, I feel bad for them."
When the curtain rises in Pensacola, the show will be a vibrant assertion of the right to gather, perform and celebrate in the public square. It's a charitable reply to untoward intimidation. It's also a testament to West's foundational belief.
"What I do is not a sin," she affirmed. "It's a vessel for hope and joy." {in}
hours and features a rotating cast of drag queens from the world of "RuPaul's Drag Race."
The cast for the Pensacola show includes fan favorites like season 17's Jewels Sparkles, Lexi Love and Suzie Toot; "All-Stars 10" competitors
That connection has transformed alongside the art itself. "Twenty-five years ago, there was no social media, no YouTube and no 'Drag Race,'" she recalled. "Now, the community exists online. It's exciting and challenging for an old dog learning new tricks." Yet through all the change, her core purpose has stayed constant. "Drag remains rooted in entertainment, social activism, community and culture vital to LGBTQIA+ people."
This conviction leads her to see the opposition as a fundamental misreading of both the
A DRAG QUEEN CHRISTMAS
WHAT: An 18+ holiday-themed drag tour
hosted by Nina West, featuring performances by Lexi Love, Bosco, Shea Couleé and more
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 23
WHERE: Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox
COST: Tickets start at $47
DETAILS: pensacolasaenger.com
Nina West / Photo by Jennifer Englert
HOLIDAY EVENTS
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare will offer a free pet adoption special for dogs and cats one year or older, now through Tuesday, Dec. 30. A $15 licensing fee will be applied to all adoptions for Escambia County residents. Adoption fees for kittens and puppies is $25-$50. View adoptable animals at 24petconnect.com. The Escambia County Animal Welfare and Adoption Center is located at 200 W. Fairfield Drive. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, noon to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
ALL I WANT HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY The "All I Want" Holiday Giveaway runs through Dec. 17, presented by the Downtown Improvement Board and local merchants. Shoppers can earn entries for every $10 spent at participating downtown businesses, with daily prizes, weekly $100 gift cards and a $1,000 grand prize in downtown gift cards. Spend local and you could win anything from dinners and spa treatments to original art, clothing and more. For complete rules and details, visit downtownpensacola.com/alliwant.
OPERATION WARM WAGS CHRISTMAS
DRIVE WolfGang Pensacola is raising awareness and donations for the Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare. The organization is collecting donations for 300 shelter animals—including new fleece blankets, toys and treats—through Dec. 20. On Sunday, Dec. 21, volunteers will visit the shelter to hand-deliver the gifts, spending time with each dog and cat. Donations are being accepted now through Dec. 20 at the following drop-off locations:
Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St.; Wisteria Tavern, 3808 N. 12th Ave.; Pensacola Bay Brewery, 225 Zaragoza St.; De Novo Salon, 3435 N. 12th Ave.; So Bo Boutique, 512 N. Ninth Ave.; Titanium Wireless, 1101 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Ste. 140; Beulah Family Dentistry, 8716 Beulah Road; and Animal Hospital of Pensacola, 5001 N. 12th Ave. You can also send donations directly to the Escambia County Animal Shelter at 200 W. Fairfield Drive, noting the contribution is for the Christmas Drive, or contact WolfGang Pensacola to coordinate donation pick-ups or group collections at wolfgangparkandbrews.com.
PENSACOLA WINTERFEST Downtown Pensacola is transformed into a winter wonderland
with holiday tours throughout the season. Choose from the Grinch's Merry Match, Peanuts or Polar Express tours. And don't forget pictures with Santa. Details and tickets at pensacolawinterfest.org.
PALAFOX MARKET HOLIDAY EDITION
Palafox Market Holiday Edition is 4-8 p.m. every Wednesday through Dec. 17 in MLK Jr. Plaza, under thousands of twinkling lights.
WAHOOS WINTER NIGHTS Visit Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W. Cedar St., this holiday season for a walk-through holiday light display open 6-9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning on Dec. 5, and every day from Friday, Dec. 19 through Tuesday, Dec. 23. On Sundays at 6:30 p.m., the tickets include a movie screening. On Dec. 7, "Elf;" Dec. 14, "Home Alone;" and Dec. 21, "The Grinch." Tickets will be available for $12 from the Blue Wahoos Stadium box office and bluewahoos.com.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CRAWL Join Wild Lemon for a trolley tour of holiday lights 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 leaving from Wild Lemon, 904 E. Scott St. Visit facebook.com/wildlemonpilates for details.
PERDIDO KEY CHRISTMAS MARKET Market is 4-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 and Friday, Dec. 12 at Warrior Beer Company, 10605 Sorrento Road.
PSC VISUAL ARTS DEPARTMENT HOLI-
DAY ART MARKET The market will be 12-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at 1000 College Blvd.
HARVEST ARTS CHRISTMAS CONCERT: BEHOLD YOUR KING Trintas Christian School will present a free Christmas concert 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 located at 3301 E. Johnson Ave.
SECOND ANNUAL LETTERS TO SANTA
Write letters to Santa, take pics with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy prize opportunities with Epic Bingo 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at Coastal County Brewing, 3041 E. Olive Road.
2025 LIGHTED BOAT PARADE The Pensacola Beach Light Board Parade is 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 (reschedule date). The parade will set sail from Sabine Marina and make a loop through the Santa Rosa Sound and Pensacola Beach Boardwalk.
After the parade, join Mrs. "Mermaid" Claus from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at the Quietwater Shell with a fireworks show over Santa Rosa Sound.
CALVERT'S WINTER MARKET Shop items from local makers at Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway. 5:30 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 12 and 19.
CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST The Pensacola Children's Chorus annual Christmas concert is 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday, Dec. 13, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Tickets are $15-$65. Livestream tickets are $25. Tickets and details are available at pensacolaSings.org/performances.
IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY Performances are 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 12 and 19; Saturdays, Dec. 13 and 20; Thursday, Dec. 18; and 2:30 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 14 and 21. Located at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. Tickets and info at pensacolalittletheatre.com.
DECK THE HALLS A holiday brunch event with caroling from Pensacola Opera. Seatings are 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 13 and 20 at Jackson's Steakhouse, 400 S. Palafox. Reservations can be made by calling (850) 469-9898 or visiting jacksonsrestaurant.com.
HOUSE OF ANDROGYNY: HOHOHOLIDAY SPECIAL FEATURING ANDY RODGINOUS, JAYJAY DUVAY, WYNTIER KANDIEY, H8MALE, READ HOTT KANDIEY AND MORE Show starts at 9 p.m. Dec. 13 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. 18+. More info available at thehandlebar850.com.
PENSACOLA CHRISTMAS PARADE The annual Pensacola Christmas Parade is 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 in Downtown Pensacola running through South Palafox Street. Preceding the parade is the 1.2-mile Christmas Parade Dash, sponsored by the Pensacola Runners Association. Details at coxpensacolachristmasparade.org.
WOLFGANG'S SANTA PAWS & WINTER WONDERLAND MARKET The market is 11 a.m.4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at Perfect Plain, 50 E. Garden St. Visit wolfgangparkandbrews.com for details.
BAD SANTA CHRISTMAS MYSTERY
SCAVENGER HUNT Event is at Coastal
County Brewing, 3041 E. Olive Road. Specialty brews, family-friendly fun, and more. 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. Details at coastalcountybrewing.com.
GINO ROSARIA'S TENTH ANNIVERSARY CHRISTMAS CHARITY JAZZ CONCERT
This year's concert includes BK Jackson on saxophone, Erin Stevenson on vocals, and saxophonist Erisa Nicole. Concert is 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at WSRE Jean and Paul Amos Theatre, 1000 College Blvd. Tickets and info at rosariamusicandarts.org.
HOLIDAYS AT THE HISTORIC SACRED HEART Enjoy special events and specials at various businesses 12-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at 1010 N. 12th Ave. Portraits with Short Story Studios are 12-4 p.m. (no appointment necessary). Tours of the building with Michael Ritz are at 12:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Wine tasting from 12-6 p.m. with A Curious Wine Shop; drink specials at The Burrow from 12-5 p.m.; live elves performing from 12-2 p.m.; a holiday market at Studio 228 from 12-5 p.m.; and gelato tasting at Lamonte Gelato from 12-5 p.m. Popups from KM Bodyworks 1-4 p.m., Moondrop Flower Company 12-4 p.m. and Perfect Day Books from 2-7 p.m.
PAWS FOR THE CLAUSE UGLY SWEATER PUP PAW-TY Grab your fur babies and your ugly sweater and get a photo with Santa at Coastal County Brewing Co., 3041 E. Olive Road. 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14. Details at coastalcountybrewing.com.
BREAKFAST ON THE BEACH WITH SANTA AND HIS HELPERS Casino Beach Bar & Grille transforms into a seaside winter wonderland as Santa and his helpers make a special stop on Pensacola Beach 8-11 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, located at 41 Fort Pickens Road. Enjoy a cookie decorating station and full brunch and regular menu. Get a complimentary photo with Santa when you bring a brand-new unwrapped toy for Gulf Coast Kid's House.
UGLY SWEATER BRUNCH Head to Calvert's in the Heights, 670 Scenic Highway, for an Ugly Sweater Brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14. Visit facebook.com/calvertsintheheights for more information.
a&e happenings
CRAFT & VINTAGE HOLIDAY MARKET AT ODD COLONY BREWING CO. Get some holiday shopping done 12-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14 at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Details at facebook.com/oddcolony.
HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF MUSIC Pensacola
Early Music Consort performance 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14 located at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 4600 N. Ninth Ave.
CRAFT & VINTAGE HOLIDAY MARKET AT ODD COLONY BREWING CO. Shop at Odd Colony, located at 260 N. Palafox St. 12-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14. Visit facebook.com/oddcolony for details.
JINGLE JAZZ Jazz Pensacola presents Jingle Jazz featuring Brynnevere 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15 at Phineas Phogg's in Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Admission is $25 and free to students with ID and military in uniform. Details at jazzpensacola.com.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE MAKING PAWTY
Make a gingerbread house and support the cat café 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17 at Coastal Cat Café, 1508 W. Garden St. Cost is $25. Get tickets at coastalcatpcola.com.
OPERA AFTER DARK HOLIDAY CABARET
Enjoy an evening of song with Emily Pulley and Corey McKern 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17 at the Museum of Commerce, 201 E. Zaragoza St. Tickets are $40. Details at pensacolaopera.com.
HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING Visit Gary's Brewery for a holiday wreath making class 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 208 Newman Ave. Tickets and information at Eventbrite.com.
WREATHS & WHISKERS WORKSHOP WITH JADE TREE SUCCULENTS Make your own festive succulent at the cat café 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 at Coastal Cat Café, 1508 W. Garden St. Cost is $50 per person. Reserve your spot at coastalcatpcola.com.
WHITE TIE ROCK ENSEMBLE Featuring music from Trans-Siberian Orchestra and other holiday classics 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 at Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Details and tickets at pensacolabaycenter.com.
THREADS OF CHEER: A HOLIDAY GALLERY NIGHT The December Gallery Night is 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 on South Palafox street. Details at gallerynightpensacola.com.
THE THOT FACTORY PRESENTS: A THOTTIE CHRISTMAS 18+ open stage drag event and costume contest hosted by Thotberry Kingcake, featuring Andy Rodginous, Lola Boleyn and more. $10 cover. Located at Jitterbug Beverage Co., 2050 N. 12th Ave. Find details on Instagram @theth0tfactory.
BALLET PENSACOLA PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER The return of Ballet Pensacola's "The Nutcracker" is 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19,
1:30 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 and 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21 at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Get tickets at balletpensacola.org.
HEAVY HOLIDAY HOEDOWN WITH THE LADIES OF … FEATURING JAMES HALL, HEAVY KID, THE MOB TOWN SKY CADETS, AND EAST HILLBILLIES Show starts at 7 p.m. Dec. 20 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info available at thehandlebar850.com.
HOMELESS CHRISTMAS SHOE BLESSING
The Pensacola Dream Center will present 380 brand-new pairs of shoes to the Alfred Washburn Center, 31 Murphy Lane, 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20. Guests will also receive a hot meal. The Dream Center invites the community to share in the spirit of generosity to continue these efforts year-round.
SOUP + SWEETS SWAP Visit Good Day Darling, 901 N. 12th Ave., 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 to try various soups. All attendees are encouraged to be a sweet to swap. Details at facebook.com/ gooddaydarlingcafe.
HOLIDAY KIDS' MARKET AT THE BURROW The holiday kids' market is 12-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21 at The Burrow, 1010 N. 12th Ave. Details at facebook.com/theburrowbyoc.
NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS
SAVE OUR SHELTERS SILENT AUCTION
The Save our Shelters silent auction of mini themed trees and gift baskets will be available
now through Dec. 13 from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Happy Dog Resort, 1401 W. Cervantes St. All proceeds help provide low-cost spay and neuter services for dogs in our community. Come shop, bid and make a difference in our community. Also, ask about the Double Dog Dare and take the item home same day.
ANIMAL ALLIES FLORIDA BINGO Animal Allies Florida hosts bingo twice monthly at Beef 'O' Brady's, 1 New Market St., Cantonment (on Nine Mile Road near Pine Forest Road). The cost is 10 rounds of bingo for $10, with cash prizes for winners. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. For more information, visit facebook.com/animalalliesflorida.
ANIMAL ALLIES CAT AND KITTEN ADOPTION Visit Pet Supermarket 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at 6857 N. Ninth Ave. to meet your furever friend. Visit aaflorida.org for details.
CARING
& SHARING MINISTRY
FOOD
DRIVE The Gloria Green Caring & Sharing Ministry is attached to the Historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St. The ministry feeds the homeless 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The ministry's food pantry opens 10 a.m. and also has clothing. Food donations needed are pop-top canned goods, Beanie Weenies, Vienna sausage, potted meat, cans of tuna and chicken and soups. Clothing donations needed include tennis shoes for men
happenings
and women, as well as sweatshirts and new underwear for men in sizes small, medium and large. Call DeeDee Green at (850) 723-3390 for details.
ARTS
& CULTURE
CULTURAL THREADS: A GLOBAL RUG
SALE & EXHIBIT Visit Pensacola Museum, 407 S. Jefferson St., to browse and shop handmade rugs from around the word. 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 an early access opening reception and curator talk with hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $25. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 you can shop the rugs and from 5-7 p.m. enjoy a reception and sale. At 6 p.m. there will be a talk from Dave Johnson on rug preservation and cleaning. The rug sale continues 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 and 12-2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14. Details at pensacolamuseum.org.
SIP 'N' SHOP AT THE UNIQUE BOUTIQUE
Sip, shop and meet the artists at The Unique Boutique, 1625 W. Garden St. 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11.
AUDUBON ANNUAL PHOTO SHOW
The F.M. Weston Audubon Society will present members' photos and stories from their birding of the past year 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at Pensacola State College Bldg. 21, 1000 College Blvd. Free to attend. All guests welcome.
ARCHAEOLOGY ON TAP: HISTORICAL ARCHAEOLOGY OF A CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD Dr. William Lees, author and archaeologist, leads the discussion 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Details at facebook.com/oddcolony.
WICKED LISTENING PAWTY
Listen to the soundtrack of Wicked Part I while cuddling adoptable cats 7-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at Coastal Cat Café, 1508 W. Garden St. Cost is $28. Reserve your spot at coastalcatpcola.com.
PENSACOLA CINEMA ART SCREENING
Watch "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at Pensacola Cinema Art, 220 W. Garden St. Tickets are $10 (cash only). Details at pensacolacinemaart.com.
PENSACOLA CAMELLIA CLUB FLOWER SHOW AND PLANT SALE Exhibitors start time is 7-10 a.m. Plant sale is 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at University of West Florida, 11000 University Parkway. For more details, visit pensacolacamelliaclub.com.
TAYLOR TAKEOVER AT PERFECT PLAIN
Sing your heart out to Taylor tunes, dance to live music with Colleen Sexton singing Taylor Swift cover songs, take part in the Taylor and Travis costume contest, make friendship bracelets and more 4-11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at Perfect Plain, 50 Garden St. Details at facebook. com/perfectplainbrewingco.
STAND UP SCIENCE WITH SHANE MAUSS COMEDY SHOW Starts at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14 at The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. More info available at thehandlebar850.com.
PENSACOLA ARTS MARKET AT GARY'S BREWERY & BIERGARTEN Get some lastminute shopping down at Gary's Brewery, 208 Newman Ave. 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. Details at Instagram.com/pensacolaartsmarket.
DUALITIES: NATIONAL SCULPTURE EX-
HIBITION This national exhibition will feature works from various artists at Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. The exhibition is on view through Jan. 11. Details are at pensacolamuseum.org.
THRIFT STYLE New exhibit at Pensacola Museum of History explores the reuse of feed sacks to make clothing and other household objects. View the exhibit and explore the museum, located at 330 S. Jefferson St. Details at historicpensacola.org.
FIRST FRIDAY AT BLUE MORNING GAL-
LERY Visit Blue Morning Gallery, 21 S. Palafox St., 5:30 p.m. every first Friday of the month for a reception with wine, live music and occasional artist demonstrations. Visit bluemorninggallery.com for details.
PENSACOLA HERITAGE FOUNDATION
LECTURES Learn Pensacola/Northwest Florida history through interesting, informal lectures every other Tuesday at The Wright Place, 80 E. Wright St. Doors open at 11 a.m. and lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. The lecture starts at noon and lasts one hour. Lecture cost is $5 for non-members and is free to members. Lunches are $12. For reservations, call (850) 380-7759.
PENSACOLA ROSE SOCIETY Monthly meetings are normally 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Pensacola Garden Center, 1850 N. Ninth Ave. Visit pensacolarosesociety.org for more information.
BTB COMEDY Watch live standup comedy in open mic style 7 p.m. Mondays at Odd Colony, 260 N. Palafox St. Follow BTB Comedy on Facebook for updates.
SCRIPTEASERS Join writers at Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St., for Scripteasers every month. Visit pensacolalittletheatre.com for details.
PALAFOX MARKET Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. The event features local farmers, artists and crafters on North and South Palafox streets at Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza and Plaza Ferdinand. For updates, visit facebook.com/ downtownpensacola.
CABARET DRAG SHOWCASE AT AMERICAN LEGION POST #193 Don't miss Cabaret Drag Showcase every second and fourth Saturday at the American Legion Post #193, 2708 N. 12th Ave. Doors open 8 p.m. Showtime is 10 p.m. For more information, contact show director Taize Sinclair-Santi at taizesinclairsanti@gmail.com.
free will astrology
WEEK OF DECEMBER 11
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): Home is a building you live in. It's also a metaphor for the inner world you carry within you. Is it an expansive and luminous place filled with windows that look out onto vast vistas? Or is it cramped, dark and in disrepair, a psychic space where it's hard to feel comfortable? Does it have a floor plan you love and made yourself? Or was it designed according to other people's expectations? It may be neither of those extremes, of course. My hope is that this horoscope will prod you to renovate aspects of your soul's architecture. The coming months will be an excellent time for this sacred work.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): During the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1872, workers made an uncanny discovery: they could detect approaching storms by observing vibrations in the bridge's cables. The massive metal structure was an inadvertent meteorological instrument. I'm predicting that your intuition will operate with comparable sensitivity in the coming months, Taurus. You will have a striking capacity to notice subtle signals in your environment. What others regard as background noise will reveal rich clues to you. Hot tip: be extra alert for nuanced professional opportunities and social realignments. Like the bridge workers, you will be attuned to early signs of changing conditions.
What others regard as background noise will reveal rich clues to you.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): Sloths are so energy-efficient they can survive on 160 calories per day: the equivalent of an apple. They've mastered the art of thriving on minimal intake by moving deliberately and digesting thoroughly. Life is inviting you to learn from sloths, Gemini. The coming weeks will be a good time to take an inventory of your energy strategies. Are you burning fuel frantically, or are you extracting maximum nourishment from what you already possess? However you answer that question, I urge you to experiment with being more effi -
By Rob Brezsny
cient—but without depriving yourself. Try measuring your productivity not by speed and flash but by the diligence of your extraction. Dig deep and be thorough. Your nervous system and bank account will thank you.
CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): The Danish concept of "arbejdsglæde" refers to the happiness and satisfaction derived from work. It's the joy found in labor itself, not just in its financial rewards and prestige. It's about exulting in the self-transformations you generate as you do your job. Now is an excellent time to claim this joy more than ever, Cancerian. Meditate with relish on all the character-building and soul-growth opportunities your work offers you and will continue to provide.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): In the deep Pacific Ocean, fields of giant tube worms thrive in total darkness around hydrothermal vents, converting toxic chemicals into life-sustaining energy. These weirdly resilient creatures challenge our assumptions about which environments can support growth. I suspect your innovative approach to gathering resources in the coming months will display their adaptability. Situations that others find inhospitable or unmanageable will be intriguing opportunities for you. For best results, you should ruminate on how limitations could actually protect and nurture your development. You may discover that conventional sustenance isn't your only option.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): For a long time, scientists didn't understand why humans have an organ called the appendix. Most thought it was useless. But it turns out that the appendix is more active than anyone knew. Among other functions, it's a safe haven for beneficial gut bacteria. If a health crisis disrupts our microbiome, this unsung hero repopulates our intestines with the helpful microbes we need. What was once considered irrelevant is actually a backup drive. With that in mind as a metaphor, here's my question, Virgo: how many other parts of your world may be playing long games and performing unnoticed services that you haven't understood yet? Investigate that possibility!
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): In the coming months, you'll be asked to wield your Libran spe -
cialties more than ever. Your allies and inner circle will need you to provide wise counsel and lucid analysis. For everyone's sake, I hope you balance compassion with clarity and generosity with discernment. Certain collaborations will need corrective measures but shouldn't be abandoned. Your gift will lie in finding equilibrium that honors everyone's dignity. When in doubt, ask: "What would restore harmony rather than merely appear polite?" True diplomacy is soulful, not superficial. Bonus: the equilibrium you achieve could resonate far beyond your immediate circle.
death. It's a process by which your aging, damaged, or obsolete cells deliberately destroy themselves for the benefit of your organism as a whole. This "cellular suicide" is carefully regulated and crucial for development, maintenance and protection against diseases. About 5070 billion cells die in you every day, sacrificing themselves so you can live better. Let's use this healthy process as a psychospiritual metaphor. What aspects of your behavior and belief system need to die off right now so as to promote your total well-being?
SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): The Hubble Space Telescope is a school bus-sized space observatory orbiting 320 miles above the Earth. There, it observes the universe free from atmospheric distortion. Its instruments and detectors need to be recalibrated continuously. Daily monitors, weekly checks and yearly updates keep the telescope's tech sharp as it ages. I believe it's a good time for you Scorpios to do your own recalibrations. Subtle misalignments between your intentions and actions can now be corrected. Your basic vision and plans are sound; the adjustments required are minor. For best results, have maximum fun as you fine-tune your fundamentals.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): Leonardo da Vinci painted his iconic Mona Lisa on a thin panel of poplar wood, which naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity. Over the centuries, this movement has caused a crack and measurable warping. One side of the classic opus is bending a bit more than the other. Let's use this as a metaphor for you, Sagittarius. I suspect that a fine quality you are known for and proud of is changing shape. This should be liberating, not worrisome. If even the Mona Lisa can't remain static, why should you? I say: let your masterwork age. Just manage the process with grace and generosity. The central beauty may be changing, but it's still beautiful.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): "Apoptosis" is a word referring to programmed cell
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): Which parts of your foundations are built to strengthen with age? Which are showing cracks? The coming months will be an excellent time to reinforce basic structures so they will serve you well into the future. Don't just patch problems. Rebuild and renovate using the very best ingredients. Your enduring legacy will depend on this work, so choose materials that strengthen as they mature rather than crumble. Nothing's permanent in life, but some things are sturdier and more lasting than others.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): Along the Danube River in Europe, migrating storks return each spring to rebuild massive nests atop church steeples, roofs and trees. New generations often reuse previous bases, adding additional twigs, grass, roots and even human-made stuff like cloth and plastics. Some of these structures have lasted for centuries and weigh half a ton. Let's make this a prime metaphor for you in the coming months, Pisces. I see your role as an innovator who improves and enhances good traditions. You will bring your personal genius to established beauty and value. You will blend your futuristic vision with ancestral steadiness, bridging tomorrow with yesterday.
HERE'S THE HOMEWORK: Tell me what you like and don't like about my newsletter. {in}
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news of the weird
GOALS Gavin Rivers Weisenburg, 21, of Allen, Texas, and Tanner Christopher Thomas, 20, of Argyle, Texas, were indicted on Nov. 20 in U.S. District Court for a bizarre plot to carry out a coup on Gonave Island, near Haiti. The New York Times reported that the men hatched their plan in 2024; both were learning Haitian Creole, and Weisenburg joined the North Texas Fire Academy to learn "command-and-control protocols." He flunked out in February 2025. Thomas joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Maryland, and both men planned to recruit homeless people from around Washington, D.C., to assist in the coup. After sailing to and gaining control of the island, Weisenburg and Thomas planned to kill all the men and make the women and children sex slaves. The would-be conquerors could face up to life in federal prison.
PERSPECTIVE (OR LACK THEREOF) On Nov. 7 at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Corey Johnson, 35, of Alexandria, Louisiana, tried to exit the short-term parking lot, but he wasn't able to pay the fee. People magazine reported that Johnson at first refused to move his Jeep out of the exit lane but later agreed to pull aside while he worked out payment. Around 10 p.m., while Johnson was still stuck in the parking lot, the airport's Aviation Communications center received a threatening phone call, suggesting a bomb would be detonated if the operator did not "page Hassan." The center received another call around 10:35, saying he wanted "Hassan" "to bring the bomb to level three." Deputies pinged the phone making the calls and traced it back to Johnson; by 11 p.m., he was under arrest. On Nov. 20, Johnson was indicted for willfully conveying a bomb threat. He could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine—way more than the parking fee.
RACCOONS GONE WILD An ABC liquor store in Ashland, Virginia, had a break-in early on Nov. 29, but it wasn't a robber. The New York Times reported that a raccoon fell through the ceiling of the store, then set about trying a wide variety of alcohol: rum, moonshine, peanut butter whiskey, vodka and, of course, eggnog. "It broke several bottles and consumed the spirits," said Carol Mawyer, PR manager for Virginia ABC. When police and animal control responded, the blotto beast was passed out face-down on the floor of the bathroom. The raccoon woke up after about 1 1/2 hours and showed no signs of injury. It was released back into the wild.
•No good raccoon deed goes unpunished, as a man in Cherokee County, Georgia, learned during Thanksgiving week. CBS News reported that the unnamed man saw the injured animal in the road and stopped to help it, wrapping it in his coat and holding it against his chest as he drove to the Chattahoochee Nature Center more than an hour away. At some point, the raccoon became loose and bit the man on his face and
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
hands. At the center, employees urged him to go to the hospital; meanwhile, the raccoon was euthanized and tested for rabies. Result: Positive. "Please take a minute and assess the situation before attempting to capture wildlife without direction," the center posted.
SUSPICIONS CONFIRMED Police in Auckland, New Zealand, are holding a man in custody, presumably awaiting a certain biological development, after he was accused of swallowing a $19,000 Faberge egg pendant on Nov. 28, the BBC reported. Officers went to Partridge Jewellers and arrested the 32-year-old man, who has undergone a medical assessment. Talk about crap duty: "An officer is assigned to constantly monitor the man," Inspector Grae Anderson said. "At this stage, the pendant has not been recovered." The egg is set with white diamonds and blue sapphires and has an 18-kar at-gold miniature octopus inside.
GOVERNMENT IN ACTION Rankin, Pennsylvania, got its first snowfall this week, but it was less than prepared, KDKA-TV reported. Alas, Rankin has only one public works employee— and that employee isn't licensed to operate a snowplow. Still, borough resident Marcus Clay cut them some slack: "They didn't do too bad. It was better than it was last year." Borough council member Walter Sewell hopefully noted, "We're working through it." The city subcontracted with some local businesses, and in the spirit of the season, even residents chipped in, shoveling and salting their own blocks. It takes a village.
WORKERS' COMP? The perils of working ... outside. On Dec. 2, as Jessica Tyson, 32, filmed a segment for a current affairs show in Auckland, New Zealand, a low-flying bird struck her in the face, United Press International reported. Tyson shared the clip to social media, commenting, "POV Just trying to do your job when nature has other plans. Everything is fine, just got a little scar above my eye." She's looking forward to indoor assignments from now on.
BRIGHT IDEA Magician and molecular biologist Zi Teng Wang of St. Louis, Missouri, came up with a fun idea a few years ago: He implanted an RFID chip in his hand and used it to perform magic tricks, Yahoo! News reported on Nov. 28. But the tricks faded and other uses fizzled out, and Wang went on with his life. "When I went to rewrite the chip, I was horrified to realize I forgot the password that I had locked it with," he said. "I'm still locked out of my own body's tech, and that's inconvenient but hilarious." Ah, techie humor. {in}
