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Independent News | February 18, 2016 | Volume 17 | Number 8 | inweekly.net

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winners & losers

outtakes

news

buzz 8

6, 7

Sports tourism is big business, and it’s a growing market.

a&e

cover story

publisher Rick Outzen

art director Richard Humphreys

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Jason Leger, Jennifer Leigh, Emily Richey, Chuck Shepherd, Shelby Smithey

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February 18, 2016

winners & losers

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cal, regional and state representatives joined Escambia County in celebration of the new Wilson B. Robertson Boat and Canoe Launch, located at 11800 Mobile Hwy. The special ceremony also recognized Vice Chairman and District 1 Commissioner Wilson B. Robertson for his years of service. Organizations and partners instrumental in bringing the boat ramp project to completion include DEP, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Escambia County Board of County Commissioners, Escambia County Marine Advisory Committee, Hatch Mott MacDonald, Wetland Sciences, Inc. and Roads, Inc.

PAM BONDI The Florida Attorney General recently announced that 166 Floridians received more than $180,000 as a final result of a global settlement against Rome Finance Company and related entities. In 2014, Attorney General Bondi, 12 other state attorneys general and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reached a settlement with Rome Finance that liquidated the company and its successor corporations, and provided close to $92 million in debt relief to United States service members worldwide. GOOGLE CULTURAL INSTITUTE Last week, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell announced at a ceremony at Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Alabama a publicprivate partnership between the National Park Service and Google to share the diverse history and culture of America with a global audience. The partnership with the Google Cultural Institute brings together in one place American stories and histories that inform and inspire.

losers GOP PRESIDENTIAL DEBATES When it comes to the Republican presidential campaigns, Saturday nights are for fighting. The verbal jabs and counterpunches are entertaining, especially when they hit their mark. Jeb Bush finally landed a few against Donald Trump, who Bush said was insulting his way to the presidency. Marco Rubio rebounded and sparred with Ted Cruz. Who were the other two guys? ERIC OLSON The Pensacola City Admin-

istrator went on the local news to explain that he placed the city’s fire chiefs on paid administrative leave because an attorney had instructed him to do so after the insurance company had been notified of the firefighters’ EEOC complaints. Then he sent out an email to all city employees forbidding them from discussing the issue with anyone. His actions have a chilling effect on any other city employee challenging his actions or authority—which was probably the intent.

NRA There is a growing showdown between the National Rifle Association and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. NRA lobbyist Marion Hammer has asked Gov. Rick Scott to "abolish" the state water district for allegedly violating a 2004 law as it seeks to enforce an agreement involving Skyway Trap & Skeet Club in Pinellas Park. The district wanted the gun club to build a barrier to block bullets from going into a nearby park. After a year of no action, the district asked a judge to place a hold on any shooting at the range.

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outtakes

by Rick Outzen

LET’S COMMUNICATE AGAIN Pensacola City Hall has trouble communicating with its residents. That’s not just my opinion. For the second consecutive year, citizens have given the city’s communications low grades, according to the results of a recent survey conducted by UWF’s Haas Center for Business Research and Economic Development. Apparently Facebook, Twitter and Instagram aren’t cutting it with the majority of city residents. City Administrator Eric Olson spoke on the problem at the February city council meeting. “We’re going to be looking really hard at that seeing what other ways we can communicate with the residents in order to find out what information they feel they’re missing and then to provide it in ways that they like to access,” he said. The solution is to meet with the citizens like the Hayward administration regularly did two years ago. The mayor held 23 town hall meetings during his first three years in office. The public forums were labeled “Taking City Hall to the Citizens” town hall meetings, and the city ’s press releases boasted they were “an ongoing part of Mayor Hayward’s pledge to promote a ‘citizens first’ culture at City Hall.” The last “Taking City Hall to the Citizens” town hall meeting was held Dec. 16, 2013 in the Fellowship Hall at the McIlwain House on East Blount Street.

Today, City Hall is no longer “taken” to the citizens, and it has become nearly impossible for citizens to visit city leaders. In Washington, D.C., the public can freely walk the halls of the Russell Senate Office Building and knock on the door of any senator’s office, once they get past the security screening at the entrance. Not so, in Pensacola City Hall. Maybe Pensacola is more dangerous than Washington, but the restrictions have gotten out of hand. At its last meeting, the City Council passed a resolution requiring the mayor to allow access to all floors of the city hall government building, without escort, to its members. Civil rights leader Ellison Bennett told Inweekly, “Right now, when a person goes to City Hall, you feel like you're trying to get into the White House because of the rude security. They don't make you feel welcome.” Citizens are left on the outside of the government that is supposed to serve them. They have only the monthly council meetings where they can publicly address their elected officials for three minutes, and the mayor may not be in attendance. If the Hayward administration wants to improve communications, reinitiate the "Taking City Hall to the Citizens” town hall meetings and reopen City Hall. {in} rick@inweekly.net

If the Hayward administration wants to improve communications, reinitiate the "Taking City Hall to the Citizens” town hall meetings and reopen City Hall.

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POLITICS: A ROBINSON FAMILY TRADITION island will be prosperous for the next 50 years; and 3) See the Olive Road improvements finally completed. Robinson admits replacing the jail destroyed by flooding in April 2014 and continued growth in tourism are also big looming issues for the county. Robinson is not afraid to stir the pot. He created an uproar at the end of last year when he suggested $10.6 million in BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill money, which the commission controls, be directed toward goals rather than projects. Robinson, whose District 4 includes Pensacola Beach, has been active in the RESTORE Act process since 2012, serving as the Florida Gulf Consortium chairman. The county already assessed 124 proposed projects and selected projects that would essentially clean up polluted area waterways. Robinson recommended environmental and economic restoration focus on improving habitat, water quality and workforce development. Robinson said Escambia County needs to diversify its tourism-heavy economy. “We need to get it settled and make sure we get it right,” Robinson said of the RESTORE funds. “We need to set a policy that will last for years.” Another hefty issue includes transforming the Santa Rosa Island Authority, which was created by the Florida Legislature in 1947. The county assumed control of its Public Safety and Public Works departments and slashed its budget to about $4 million. The county plans to seek state abolishment of the SRIA after this year. “We need to get it set up right, so for the next 50 years it’s in good hands,” Robinson said. “We need to try to get that done and solve it.” Plus, Robinson admits being excited about seeing the more than $6 million expansion of Olive Road to four lanes and drainage issues solved. “By the time I leave, it will be finished,” Robinson said of the road project. Meanwhile, he said the county is searching for a site to build a new jail complex. He wants to make sure it isn’t flood prone. An April 2014 deluge that dumped more than two feet of rain led to an explosion that destroyed the Central Booking and Detention Center. “Central booking and the old jail need to be replaced,” Robinson said. “I’m not attached to one place, but it cannot be in

a flood-prone area and must be something that can handle a complete replacement.” He said after new jail facilities are completed in the next three to four years, the county may reconsider returning the troubled jail back over to the Sheriff ’s Office. “Until the new facility is built, the jail will stay with the board,” Robinson said. “No matter what happens, the board is responsible for everything that happens with the facility.” Robinson also said the county will continue to work with Pensacola, the school district and other organizations to ensure businesses want to relocate here. “We have a better atmosphere and team-work approach,” Robinson said. “If we can create a good atmosphere, then good businesses will come to us.” Robinson said overall he’s proud of the improvements and professionalism the commission has shown which have resulted in better leadership to Escambia County residents. He came on shortly after the governor removed four of the five commissioners over a land-buying scandal and suffered through some contentious conflicts between commissioners. “We still have issues, but we’re light years ahead of where we were in 2006,” he said. Will the three-term Commissioner of District 4 run for a fourth term on the commission in 2018? Robinson isn’t saying. "I have a plan, but I will say something at the right time. {in}

“If we can create a good atmosphere, then good businesses will come to us.” Robinson

Grover Robinson / Courtesy Photo

By Duwayne Escobedo Politics has always been a part of the Robinson family. As a toddler, Grover Robinson IV campaigned for his father, the late Grover III, in his Florida House race. He held up a sign that read: “Hi, I’m Grover, too. Vote for my daddy.” The folksy campaign helped the 29-year-old Grover III distinguish himself from a crowded field and win election in 1972. He would keep the seat for 14 years giving the younger Grover an opportunity to serve as a page, among other experiences. “I didn’t realize I was learning it,” Robinson said. “It’s hard when you’re living and breathing it every day. I’m glad I got a chance to be a part of it.” His father and mother, Sandra, died in a helicopter accident, while on vacation in New Zealand in 2000. In 2006, Grover Robinson IV decided

to continue the family’s political tradition. Now, he is the new Escambia County Board of County Commissioners chairman for the second time. By the time the 46-year-old finishes his third term in 2018, his daughter, Anna, who began kindergarten in 2006 when Robinson was first elected will be graduating high school in 2018. He and wife, Jill’s, oldest son, Grover V, is showing a knack for politics at the University of Florida as a freshman this year, also. “It makes life a little crazy,” Robinson admitted. “But I think both of them have enjoyed parts of it. They were exposed to things they never would have been.” Robinson, who last served as chairman in 2010, promised 2016 will be an active year for the commission. He says he has three priorities. In his second go-round as chair, he wants to: 1) Set up a process for making smart decisions on BP Restore funds; 2) Create a lasting Santa Rosa Island governance system, so the

“No matter what happens, the board is responsible for everything that happens with the facility.” Grover Robinson

Grover Robinson IV File Born

February 11, 1970

Family

Wife, Jill, and children Grover V and Anna

Education

Birmingham-Southern College

Elected to District 4 2006, 2010 and 2014

Party

Republican

Notable

Seventh generation Pensacolian. Father, Grover III, served in Florida House for 14 years (1972-1986). inweekly.net

HOW TO TAKE SPORTS TOURISM TO THE NEXT LEVEL fields upgraded to host more and larger soccer, lacrosse and baseball events. A hotel, restaurants, retail shops and additional development opportunities could also occur as part of an indoor facility development. The indoor sports area would be approximately 87,000 sq. ft. Palmer said on “Pensacola Speak” on News Talk 1370 WCOA, “It is just one great big huge room with hard wood floors. It would have certain bleacher abilities for each court. It would have netting that would separate the courts whether they be eight basketball courts or 16 volleyball courts, all under one roof.” The facility is projected to generate more than 50,000 hotel room nights to Escambia County each year, according to the study. “We have 7,400 hotel rooms, 2,500 condo units, a growing entertainment district, professional baseball and hockey and a sophisticated tourism marketing organization already in place,” said Steve Hayes, president of Visit Pensacola. “An indoor sports complex will bring teams and spectators who will also be attracted to our beaches, our museums, fishing, a new ferry service, golf and performing arts. If we can bring these tournaments to town, our existing attractions will make the family visit an over-the–top experience.” Five potential sites were analyzed and identified in the report with the former ECUA property on West Main Street as the number one recommended site. Other potential locations include a site at the Port of Pensacola, the old soccer complex on U.S. 29, the Hallmark School property between E and F streets and the EPA Super Fund site on Gimble Street. Palmer said he believed the final cost for the facility would be less than $36.2 million.

“Whether it's $36.2 (million), I don't know what the right number is,” he said. “I know Myrtle Beach built one very similar that just opened a year ago in March, and they paid $14 million.” He added, “The $36.2 million is the target number that you work towards but you know, if you get a piece of government property, you get partnerships, you get contractors who do some work in-kind, the cost could be less. We've got to figure out now how to present back to the commission—what it looks like to a certain extent, how are we going to pay for it, and how does it pay for itself once you're up and running?” Whatever location is chosen, Palmer believed an indoor sports complex could be a winner for Escambia County. “It complements all the progress and developments in Pensacola,” Palmer said. “It fits our vision for a community with lots of energy, lots of activities for people of all ages and families. It would likely spur other developments as well. The development will encourage our residents to consider new sports, get involved in being physically fit and broaden our sports diversity.” Pensacola Sports is developing an action plan to present to the Escambia County Commission on how to move the project forward. Determining a funding source, an operational/management strategy and a targeted marketing strategy all need to be developed. “The feasibility study is just the first step,” said Palmer. “There is much work to be done, but we are excited about the prospects and the fact that the study says an indoor sports complex could be a winner for Escambia County.”{in}

“This will take our already-successful tourism efforts to the next level and also help during the slower shoulder seasons.” Ray Palmer

Ray Palmer / Courtesy Photo

By Rick Outzen Sports tourism can be lucrative for our economy, particularly if the Escambia County builds an indoor sports complex that will attract sports events in the shoulder seasons, according to a report delivered to the Escambia Board of County Commissioners last week. The commission ordered a $102,300 study last summer by Tampa-based Crossroads Consulting Services LLC to examine the increased impact of sports tourism if new facilities were built and existing facilities improved. This study focused on how to accommodate both outdoor sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, football, rugby, extreme sports and water sports, as well as indoor sports such as basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, wrestling, martial arts and swimming without competing with existing facilities in the market. Pensacola Sports and Crossroads Consulting Services presented the results to the county commission at its committee of the whole on Thursday, Feb. 11. Research conducted for the study suggested that specific market opportunities exist to grow and diversify sports tourism efforts in Escambia County with enhanced/ new facilities. A priority was placed on building an indoor sports complex, because February 18, 2016

the annual economic impact was estimated to be $25 million. “Sports tourism is big business, and it’s a growing market,” said Ray Palmer, executive director of Pensacola Sports. “An indoor facility would allow us to attract tournaments in volleyball, basketball, martial arts, cheerleading and dance, wrestling, team handball and a variety of other sports we cannot adequately accommodate today.” He added, this will take our already-successful tourism efforts to the next level and also help during the slower shoulder seasons.” The mid-term recommendations, which would take three to five years, included an 8-12 field baseball/softball tournament complex, enhancement of existing multi-purpose fields and conversion or addition of artificial turf multi-purpose fields. The study envisioned a $36.2 million indoor facility with more than 120,000 square feet of indoor courts, meeting rooms and locker rooms that could accommodate a wide range of sport competitions. In addition, outdoor fields can be added, depending on the location, and existing Court Proposal Drawing / Courtesy of Convergence Design

FIRE CHIEF SILENT SHUFFLE Pensacola City Administrator Eric Olson last week sent out an order that city employees are not to discuss any ongoing investigations within the fire department, pending EEOC claims against the City, or any current City employees placed on administrative leave. The paid administrative leaves of Interim Fire Chief Matt Schmitt and Deputy Fire Chief Joe Glover were extended by Mayor Ashton Hayward on Feb. 12 for an additional 10 days. Mayor Hayward and Olson have told the media that they are following the instructions of the attorney assigned by the city’s insurance carrier. The Pensacola City Council was told at its regular meeting on Feb. 11 that City Attorney Lysia Bowling was the person overseeing the Beggs & Lane investigation into the chiefs. No information on what the investigation entails has been released, although Olson has said it is related to the EEOC complaints, and the administrative leaves are neither punitive nor disciplinary. Meanwhile, the city has removed both Schmitt and Glover from the fire depart-

ment’s web page and substituted David Allen as the acting interim fire chief.

NO PLACE FOR CHILDREN The James Madison Institute recently released a new report that stated maintaining the status quo on the process of direct filing of juveniles in Florida could cost the Florida Department of Corrections $175 million over the next 10 years as more children enter its facilities. Sal Nuzzo, vice president of policy at The James Madison Institute, appeared on News Talk 1370 WCOA’s “Pensacola Speaks” to discuss the report, “No Place for A Child: Direct File of Juveniles Comes at a High Cost; Time to Fix Statues,” that was written by researchers at the Project on Accountable Justice at Florida State University and The James Madison Institute.

“Direct file is the process by which a child age seventeen or under is transferred and charged as an adult in the correctional system in Florida,” said Nuzzo. “In almost all other states, a judge is involved in that process,” he said. “If a prosecutor wants to charge a kid as an adult, they petition the court to review the charges, review the kid's file and make a determination on charging the kid as an adult.” He explained that Florida handles such cases differently. “Florida is one of only three states that actually gives the sole discretion for charging a kid as an adult to the state attorney in that circuit,” said Nuzzo. “Without any oversight, without any judicial review, without any involvement at all of a judge or anyone else, the prosecutor is allowed to simply directly file the kid into the adult system and charge him as an adult.” Since 2009, more than 12,000 children have been tried as adults in Florid – 98

"Florida is one of only three states that actually gives the sole discretion for charging a kid as an adult to the state attorney in that circuit.” Sal Nuzzo

percent of these children are direct filed in adult court by prosecutors with no hearing, due process, oversight or input from a judge. Florida currently has the highest number of adult transfers reported of any state in the nation. The economic analysis revealed that although the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice would incur new costs, as juveniles previously filed into the adult court system would now be served in the juvenile system; over a 10-year period, the state budget would see a $12.6 million increase, presenting a reinvestment opportunity for the juvenile system to increase rehabilitative services. “Although incarceration in juvenile facilities is more expensive on a per diem basis as rehabilitative and educational programming provided in the juvenile system has a cost, the use of the juvenile justice system saves money in the long run,” said Nuzzo. “This is not only because it is more effective at rehabilitating youth, but also because the lengths of incarceration in the adult system are significantly longer and we would argue, more detrimental to public safety. “

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Vision Pensacola Bay Bridge Plan / Courtesy Photo Rendering He added, “Our analysis doesn’t even take into account a change in the recidivism rates or the improved economic prospects for youth who do not have to carry around an adult criminal record.” Conservative and liberal groups both support changes to the state’s criminal justice system. “We're working in a coalition with groups like the Southern Poverty Law Center, the ACLU and some conservative organizations that really have a heart for this type of reform,” said Nuzzo. The coalition is not recommending the elimination charging any kids as adults, because some crimes warrant it. The recommendation is to restore the role of a judge in determining that for non-violent offenses. Nuzzo said, “For these non-violent offenses, we want to go back to the way Florida had it back in the ‘70s and ‘80s before this policy got expanded, and really restore the role of a judge in helping to serve as an objective arbiter for this.”

He said the funding hasn’t kept pace with the rising costs of bridge and road construction. Also, the state has swept the Transportation Trust Fund to balance the state’s budget in past years. “This is one of the most odious of the causes of our transportation gap-sweeping of the transportation trust fund,” said Weissert. He said that roads and bridges are one of the most core functions of state government, and it shouldn’t collect money for one reason and use it for another reason. “Budgeting is very difficult, and the legislature needs to have flexibility to make those difficult decisions among competing priorities,” he said. “You shouldn’t collect money for one reason and spend it on something else.” Weissert said that investing in transportation creates jobs. “Transportation investment is one of the very few things government does that creates jobs, because that money flows directly into the economy in the form of people hired to build the roads, and they go out and they spend that money, and that money cycles through four or five times,” said Weissert. “We’ve found the return on investment is about five dollars for every one dollar spent in the short term.” {in}

"Budgeting is very difficult, and the legislature needs to have flexibility to make those difficult decisions among competing priorities.” Robert Weissert

ROADS TO SOMEWHERE Robert Weis-

sert, executive vice president of Florida TaxWatch, said on “Pensacola Speaks” that the shortfall for the state’s transportation infrastructure needs is more than a $130 billion over the next 25 years. February 18, 2016

A C E L E B R AT I O N O F D I F F E R E N C E M A K E R S I N P E N S ACO L A

Vincent Anthony Bruno and Angela Marguerite Scarritt were wed June 12, 1918, in St. Michaelâ€™s Catholic Church downtown

Vince and Angelaâ€™s five children (left to right), V. Paul, Angela, Theo, Marcella and Dan

Vince and Angela in 1968, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary

Vince and Angela Bruno imparted their love of God and family and their sense of patriotism and civic duty to their children. Their descendants continue to thrive in the Pensacola area. They have contributed to the community by dedicating themselves to military service, government positions, education, commercial businesses, and to health care professions. All are proud to be citizens of this beautiful, historic city that their ancestors helped shape.

Saluting 1st Generation Difference Makers: If you have a suggestion for a family to feature, email Quint@studergroup.com. SERIES SPONSORED BY THE STUDER FAMILY 010 1 QS0499 Bruno Family IN.indd 1

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2/12/16 3:17 PM

Getting Getting Geeky Geeky By Jennifer Leigh Now in its third year, fans of Pensacon know what to expect each February. There will be crowds of folks in cosplay walking across the road from Pensacola Bay Center to the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The fun will continue downtown as bars transform into science fiction fantasies. Pensacon really does have something to offer every fan—whether you’re into “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” zombies or even the ‘90s. And the list of guests and events grow each year. To help you plan for the weekend, here’s a breakdown of what you won’t want to miss.

IF YOU LIKE “STAR WARS”

Pensacon recently had to share the bad news that Peter Mayhew, a.k.a. Chewbacca, and Tim Rose, a.k.a. Admiral Ackbar, had to cancel their performances. The good news was that it’s because they’re filming “Star Wars Episode VIII.” But there’s still plenty for fans to check out. Authors Troy Denning and Kevin J. Anderson each have written books expanding the universe of a galaxy far, far away and will be featured in the Star Wars Off the Screen panel Friday, Feb. 19 at 1 p.m. February 18, 2016

Actor Mark Dodson is the voice behind Salacious Crumb in “Return of the Jedi.” Also from that film is Deep Roy who played Droopy McCool. Clive Revill has a long list of credits to his name, but you’ll likely recognize him as original Emperor Palpatine from “The Empire Strikes Back.” And while everyone knows the voice of Darth Vadar, you’ll get to meet the man behind the mask, David Prowse. And for fans of “The Force Awakens,” there’s Jessica Henwick, who plays one of the Resistance pilots.

IF YOU LIKE “HARRY POTTER” Doesn’t matter if you’re a Hufflepuff or Gryffindor, you’ll want to see the “Harry Potter” cast panel with actors William Melling and Natalia Tena Sunday, Feb. 21 at 5:15 p.m. You’ll recognize Melling as Nigel Wolpert in the “Harry Potter” films. Tena is best known as the half-blood witch, Nymphadora Tonks, but is also part of another fandom culture, playing Osha on “Game of Thrones.”

IF YOU LIKE “STAR TREK”

Beam yourself up to the “Star Trek” 50th Anniversary Friday, Feb. 19 at 3 p.m. as a panel

of fans and experts discuss the show’s fivedecade history, which includes TV series, movies, books and comic books. And be sure to get your photo ops with Denise Crosby, who created the role of Lt. Tasha Yar and Michael Dorn, who portrayed Worf, (although he might not be recognizable without prosthetics).

IF YOU LIKE THE ‘90S

An underlying running theme for some of the Pensacon events is intertwined with the nostalgia of the ‘90s. Stop, look and watch, for the panel Kel Mitchell: All That and More Sunday, Feb. 21 at 12:30 p.m. A star of Nickelodeon shows “All That” and “Kenan and Kel,” Mitchell will discuss his TV and movie career, as well as his stand up comedy. Fans of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” will want to look out for Amber Benson, who played Tara Maclay and James Leary, who played the peaceful, loose-skinned demon Clem. Creature effect artist, Christopher Burdett, who has worked on “Buffy” will also be at Pensacon. If you’re a fan of “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers,” which you can totally be proud of, you’ll want to

meet Austin St. John (Red Ranger) and Vernon Wells, who played Ransik. No ‘90s fan will want to miss a screening of the film “Mallrats” Friday, Feb. 19 at Seville Quarter. A ‘90s themed party will follow afterward. And on Saturday, Feb. 20 at 12:30 p.m. the “Mallrats” cast including Joey Lauren Adams, Jeremy London, Jason Mewes, Brian O’Halloran and Michael Rooker will the discuss the film and its popularity. Samm Levine of “Freaks and Geeks” (it came out in 1999, so it still counts) is also back and will be at the Pensacon Short Film Festival.

IF YOU LIKE “ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW”

Now Halloween doesn’t have to be the only time you break out into the “Time Warp.” This year, you can dance along to the movie with cast members Barry Bostwick, Patricia Quinn and “Little” Nell Campbell at Vinyl Music Hall, Saturday, Feb. 20 at 9 p.m. In the afternoon on Saturday at 2:45 p.m., the cast will take the stage to discuss the film and answer questions from fans.

Doing the Time Warp Australian singer and actress Nell Campbell has been making headlines since she was a little girl. Born Laura Elizabeth Campbell, she was dubbed “Little Nell” after a Charles Dickens character in her father’s weekly newspaper column in the “Sydney Daily Telegraph.” Her three siblings all had pseudonyms. At 17, she embraced the nickname as a stage name when her boyfriend put her on the bill for his art exhibit as Little Nell. “I was opening (the show) singing and tap dancing,” she said. “From that point on, everyone called me Nell.” Campbell began tap dancing when she was 16—and at 62, she still loves tapping. Legend has it that she was cast in the cult classic “Rocky Horror Picture Show” because of her dancing, but she said she believes it was “the whole package that sealed the deal,” when the show’s director Jim Sharman saw her perform. She was cast as Columbia—the gold, sequined-hat-wearing groupie—in the play and reprised her role for the film.

Campbell said the actors all got along well during the theatre run of the show, which premiered in London in 1973. “It was my first show business job in London and was a huge overnight hit,” she recalled. “We were paid $27 a week, which grew to $50 for me. Hilarious, but true. I was happy as a clam.” In 1975, the film was released. It’s cult following began after the movie started its midnight run at the Waverly Theater in New York City. Audiences would get in for free if they were dressed in costume. To this day, it’s considered to be the longest-running film release in history and continues to play in cinemas. The success of the show, and the cult following, was a surprise to Campbell and the rest of the cast. “No one ever knows,” she said. “It is the perfect musical. The stage show was an overnight smash hit, and the film opened quietly so

we thought it was a dud. Who would guess the midnight screenings and fans would make it the cult hit it is?” The most common request from fans is to do the “Time Warp.” Campbell said she doesn’t go to “Rocky Horror” screenings except for “very special occasions,” such as the film’s 40th anniversary, which was celebrated in major cities last August. In the fall of this year, FOX will air a live version of the show starring Laverne Cox as Dr. Frank-N-Furter. “I’m thrilled that the joy continues,” she said. “The film is in its fourth generation of fans. It just keeps giving.” Campbell still keeps in touch with the cast, including Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon and Richard O’Brien. At Pensacon, she will join fellow co-stars Barry Bostwick (Brad Majors) and Patricia Quinn (Magenta) for a Q&A panel and a live screening of the movie.

“It was my first show business job in London and was a huge overnight hit.” Nell Campbell

“I love doing conventions with the two of them,” she said. “They are great company, a lot of laughs, and the conventions are more fun with them by my side.” While Campbell continues to sing and act, she doesn’t mind that her legacy lies mostly with Columbia. “I only have great memories of the show,” she said. “I’m just happy people get such a kick out of it.”

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW CAST PANEL

WHEN: 2:45 p.m. Saturday, Feb 20

Double Fantasy Natalia Tena It’s lucky enough when an actor gets to be part of one successful franchise—Natalia Tena has a part in two of them. The English-born actress is known to “Harry Potter” fans as Nymphadora Tonks, or Tonks as she calls herself, and to “Game of Thrones” followers as Osha. Both characters are strong, female roles—both are good fighters. But Tena said

it’s the luck of the draw when it comes down to getting cast in such parts. Not every part she plays is as inspiring. “I take what I'm given usually” she said. “Your moment to decide whether you what to do something is after you read the script. If you respond to it, you do the audition and hope for the best.” Tena is a fan of both series of books. Each series she says is “fantastically addictive.” “Both authors drag you intensely into such well-crafted worlds,” she added. Even after reading the books—and the scripts—Tena is still able to weave her own self into the characters so they’re not a carbon copy from the book.

“You always add a bit of yourself when you delve into being someone else, I think,” she said. On top of her acting, Tena is also vocalist and accordion player in the band Molotov Jukebox (their latest album, “Tropical Gypsy”, will be available online April 15). It’s a whirlwind of scheduling, which Tena credits to her patient band mates and manager. At shows, she may find some “Harry Potter” or “Game of Thrones” fans, but she embraces it. “I don't mind at all how someone finds our music, and it's so humbling that someone bothers to make the connection at all,” she said. “It’s beautiful!”

In real life, Tena said she’s hardly recognized on the street, which she’s grateful for. “I think I escaped that as both are such small characters that it's not a problem, thankfully,” she said. In the convention scene, it’s a little bit different. Tena said she only goes to about three a year, luckily Pensacon was one of those stops this year. “I love being able to travel the world and meet fans of the show, as well as being to stock up on my comic collections,” she said.

“It was kind of surreal getting texts and tweets from these people that I have watched in television shows and movies, asking if I had more prints, because they already sold out of them,” he said. This year, he will sell his digital prints recognizing fan favorites such as “Star Wars” and “Clerks” from his spot in the Artist Alley. When it comes to dreaming up a print, Daw said he takes a cue from the Pensacon lineup and sticks to stuff he knows and love. “...I just narrow it down to something that resonates with me. I try not to go too far out of my field of fandom,” he said. “For instance, I've never made a ‘Dr. Who’ print. I feel like I just don't know enough about the show to do it any justice.”

Along with digital prints, Daw will be selling remaining linocut prints from the inaugural Pensacon as well as his illustrated book “A Very Krampus Christmas,” which was printed this past holiday season. Among his inventory, Daw said he’s excited about his “Escape from Jakku” print paying homage to “Star Wars” and featuring Pensacon guest Jessica Pava. “I'm also excited to see how this Game of Thrones print I'm still working on comes out,” he said. “I work on these prints up until the day of Pensacon, so I'll be revealing the rest of them this week.”

HARRY POTTER CAST PANEL WHEN: 5:15 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21

Prints at Pensacon

One of the big draws (pun intended) at Pensacon is scoring prints and original artwork from artists. Since the Pensacon’s first year, local artist Michael Daw has had a positive response from the fans to the celebrity guests. 212 1

“Because of an article about my prints, Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca) sent for someone to get me to bring him one of the linocut Chewbacca prints I made, so that was pretty amazing,” Daw recalled. “He's going to put it in the Chewbacca museum he's planning to open in Texas.” Samm Levine (Neal Schweiber from “Freaks and Geeks” among other things) is also a fan of Daw’s work. “He was a really cool guy, and he actually came to see my band play, so I made a print this year based off his character in "Inglorious Basterds," and he'll be selling those at his table, as well as his other merchandise.” In the past two years, other guests have sold Daw’s prints at their autographing tables, which has introduced his artwork to a whole new audience.

ARTIST MICHAEL DAW

INFO: Facebook.com/jackdawillustration, @jackdawillustration on Instagram or @ michaeldawdaw on Twitter. inweekly.net

Party with Pensacon The fun doesn't have to stop when the Con closes. Head to these themed parties—costumes not required, but always encouraged.

VIP PARTY

WHEN: 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 18 WHERE: Fish House Deck Bar, 600 S. Barracks St. INFO: fishhousepensacola.com VIP pass holders are admitted to an exclusive party at the Fish House for drink specials and dancing.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT AND WIZARDRY

WHEN: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Sunday, Feb. 21 WHERE: Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. INFO: fishhousepensacola.com Head to the Fish House and walk into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with potions, Quidditch, wands, and Diagon Alley. Take a selfie with a life-size dementor and take advantage of drink specials, which include The Goblet of Fire, Veritaserum, Butterbeer and more.

A CELEBRATION OF QUENTIN TARANTINO

WHEN: 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Hub Stacey’s, 312 E. Government St. INFO: hubstaceys.com Want to chow down and watch Quentin Tarantino movies? Grab a group of friends and go to Hub Stacey's where there are plenty of drink specials and good food with Tarantino films playing on the TVs.

RADAWAY DAYS AT THE VAULT

WHEN: 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Saturday, Feb. 20; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21 WHERE: The Vault, 200 S. Alcaniz St. INFO: facebook.com/TheVaultPensacola For fans of the video game Fallout, check into The Vault where the bar and restaurant will be transformed into the post-apocalyptic universe the game exists in.

WHEN THE DEAD COME KNOCKING THEMED PARTY

WHEN: 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: O'Riley's Irish Pub, 321 S. Palafox February 18, 2016

INFO: orileysirishpub.convergelocal.com Zombies are the theme of the weekend at O'Riley's Irish Pub. The restaurant is paying homage to "The Walking Dead" with cardboard cutouts and staff members joining in on the fun.

VAMPIRES & WEREWOLVES THEMED PARTY

WHEN: 2 p.m.-3 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19 WHERE: The Roundup, 560 E. Heinberg St. INFO: theroundup.net Creatures of the night will be roaming The Roundup at the Vampires and Werewolves Themed Party. The club will be transformed into a mystic forest with projectors showing clips from classic vampire and werewolf movies. Drink specials include The Dracula, The Dark One, Changeling and Blood Orange.

STAR WARS WEEK THEMED PARTY

WHEN: 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Beef O' Brady’s, 22 S. Palafox INFO: beefobradys.com/PensacolaII Get transported to a galaxy far, far away at Beef O' Brady's for a "Star Wars" themed experience. Menu and drink specials include Jedi Mind Eraser, Jabba The Hutt Punch, Dark Side Nachos and more. Kid's activities, such as shoot torpedo in Death Star and light saber ring toss, create fun for the whole family.

STAR TREK HOLODECK

WHEN: 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Sunday, Feb. 21 WHERE: Atlas Oyster House, 600 S. Barracks St. INFO: atlasoysterhouse.com Travel beyond the final frontier and step into the "Star Trek" series at Atlas Oyster House. Take your picture with authentic props and enjoy drink specials such as The James Tea Kirk, Mind Meld, Spock's Mojito and the Warp Core Breach.

STAR WARS CANTINA THEMED EVENT

WHEN: 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19-Sunday, Feb. 21 WHERE: Fish House Deck Bar, 600 S. Barracks St. INFO: fishhousepensacola.com After hours cantina? At The Deck Bar, you'll

be able to dance the rest of the night away with singers—such as Han in Carbonite— performing every hour. Drink specials at the Deck Bar Cantina include The Jedi, Han Shot First, The Sith, Bantha Milk and more.

THE CW55 PRESENTS: SUPERHERO TRIVIA!

WHEN: 8-10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19; 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Gulf Coast Brewery, 500 E. Heinberg St. INFO: gulfcoastbrewery.net Test your superhero knowledge at Gulf Coast Brewery where the bar and TV station CW55 are hosting Superhero Trivia. Prizes are up for grabs, and beer is just $3 during the quiz. Take photos with The Flash, and watch clips from the show.

‘90S PARTY FEATURING MALLRATS SCREENING

WHEN: 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 WHERE: Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. INFO: sevillequarter.com The ‘90s are alive at Seville Quarter for the screening of "Mallrats" with some of the film's cast. After the movie, stay for the dance party. VIPs and three-day passholders have free entry into Seville Quarter.

SUPERHEROES VS. VILLAINS THEMED PARTY WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Hopjacks's Pizza Kitchen and Taproom, 10 S. Palafox INFO: hopjacks.com

It's the classic battle against good and evil at Hopjack's Pizza Kitchen and Taproom as superheroes and villains take over the bar and restaurant. Enjoy pizza and beer as you step inside the comic book world of superheroes.

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW— LIVE!

WHEN: 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox INFO: vinylmusichall.com Do the time warp with the stars that made it a cult classic. Vinyl Music Hall is hosting a screening of the film, complete with audience participation. A costume contest and

live performances of the film’s soundtrack by Nik Flagstar and his Dirty Mangy Dogs with special guest Dead Dick Hammer complete the experience.

SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES HORROR THEMED PARTY

WHEN: 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: The Tin Cow, 102 S. Palafox INFO: thetincow.com Horror films come to life inside The Tin Cow. Take part in a crimson finger painting contest, get "zombie-fied" at the face painting station, challenge your friends in the blood-curdling scream contest and enjoy some good food and drink specials. Inside the restaurant are decorations paying homage to creepy characters such as Candyman and Hellraiser.

GAME OF THRONES THEMED PARTY

WHEN: 3 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: The Cabaret, 101 S. Jefferson St. Step into the medieval fantasy world created by George R.R. Martin at The Cabaret with drink specials and spotlight performances.

TRON: FLYNN LIVES THEMED PARTY

WHEN: 8 p.m.-2:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Play, 16 S. Palafox INFO: iplaypensacola.com Fans of "Tron" will want to head to Play to enjoy themed cocktails, music (likely techno) and more. Pensacon badge and wristband holders will receive discounts all night. The event is free and open to everyone.

FANTASYCON: THE OFFICIAL PENSACON PARTY

WHEN: 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Emerald City, 406 E. Wright St. INFO: emeraldcitypensacola.com See your fantasies come to life at FantasyCon inside Emerald City. Mingle with Pensacon guests, enjoy themed drink specials and watch performances by Anna Rexia all night long. Admission is free for Pensacon weekend passholders and $10 without passes.

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inweekly.net

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 18-25

Arts & Entertainment art, film, music, stage, books and other signs of civilization...

Films For (Feminist) Thought by Shelby Smithey

“As a curator and art historian, I have spent my career advocating for women artists and am honored to work within a museum equally alert to correcting gender imbalance through its Permanent Collection, programming and exhibitions,” Leader said. “For example, the current exhibition on view until February 27, is ‘Collection in Context: Women Creating’ which highlights female Modern and Postmodern artists through a variety of media including photography, oil on canvas and etchings.” The diverse collection of films include documentaries like “!Women Art Revolution” which contains interviews with visionary artists, historians, curators and critics who shaped the beliefs and values of the Feminist Art Movement, to “Big Eyes,” a film starring Amy Adams, who plays a woman whose husband gains great success by passing off her paintings as his own. To get a rundown of the series, Inweekly chatted with Leader about her desire to ensure gender balance and the films that she’s most excited about showing. Designed to introduce the community to the range and impact that women artists have had within visual arts, Pensacola Museum of Art’s (PMA) new film series features six films focused on that topic and will be screening them in a series called PMA Presents. The first film, “!Women Art Revolution,” will premiere this Thursday, followed by a new film premiering each month until July. These films offer a unique venue to gain insight into critical, historical and cultural issues within art history. This six-part film experience, led by art historian and PMA Director of Curatorial Affairs Alexis Leader, represents specific women artists through contemporary cinema. “At its core, the PMA is a teaching Museum,” Leader said. “In such, staff is always exploring and expanding upon educational programming offered to our community. In focusing the six-part film series to women in the arts, it enables visitors to discover a treasure trove of artists and their contributions despite working within a male-dominated (art) world.” PMA Presents brings film as an art form to the Museum while presenting national and international documentaries and feature films that may otherwise not be screened in Pensacola. Leader said that the film series aims to educate and inspire through the universally-approachable medium of film. She has worked for PMA on and off since 2001, in her current role since 2013. February 18, 2016

INWEEKLY: You have spent your career advocating for women artists. What other projects have you worked on that achieve this goal? LEADER: My goal has always been in educating others on the rich history of a gender that has historically faced unnecessary political, legal, social and even religious restrictions placed upon them. I’ve done this everywhere from my graduate thesis on the Feminist Art Program in California during the 1970s to now, with institutional support through the PMA as chief curator, by ensuring a gender balance within artwork that is accessioned into the Permanent Collection. Programming such as this film series and exhibitions such as the current, “Collection in Context: Women Creating” are also my small way of creating dialogue and serving as an advocate. INWEEKLY: How did you pick the films? LEADER: The films were selected upon public performance rights availability and scope of artists and their particular contributions that have been historically overshadowed by a maledominated art world. INWEEKLY: Why is it so important to highlight women in the arts? LEADER: Gender bias affects the artistic landscape of art history. It is important to lift the veil on genera-

tions of inequality to discover (or rediscover) the contributions that women artists have accomplished and continue to today. INWEEKLY: Some of the films, especially “The Story of Women and Art,” seem to focus on the struggle of women artists and the hardships they went through to be able to make art. Is this an issue you wanted to spotlight with the series? LEADER: Documentaries such as “The Story of Women and Art” and “!Women Art Revolution” are able to go beyond a focus on a single individual or movement to include a wide understanding of multiple women artists and the politics that shaped their work. INWEEKLY: The films are very different and portray artists from varying time periods and mediums. Do you have a favorite from the bunch? LEADER: I’m hesitant to list a film favorite but will say that the March screening of “Louise Bourgeois: The Spider, The Mistress and the Tangerine” holds a special place in my heart. During visits to the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, I would always visit “Maman”, a massive monumental bronze spider which is a recurrent motif in Bourgeois’ work and discussed within the film. The sculpture's placement at the Museum entrance outside made it a popular tourist selfie-spot, particularly factored in with the lifted ban of “no touching.” I hugged a towering spider leg with every visit. You always hug old friends when you see them, right? {in}

PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART PRESENTS: 2016 FILM SERIES

WHEN: A six-film series focused on women in the arts WHERE: Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. COST: Members: Free; $5 Adults; $20 series passes DETAILS:pensacolamuseum.org/films

FILM SERIES SCHEDULE ! WOMEN ART REVOLUTION Screening Date: 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18 For over forty years, Director Lynn Hershman Leeson has collected hundreds of hours of interviews with visionary artists, historians, curators and critics who shaped the beliefs and values of the Feminist Art Movement and reveal previously undocumented strategies used to politicize female artists and integrate women into art structures. LOUISE BOURGEOIS: THE SPIDER, THE MISTRESS AND THE TANGERINE Screening Date: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 10 A cinematic journey inside the life and imagination of an icon of modern art. Louise Bourgeois is magnetic, mercurial and emotionally raw, and her process is on full display in this documentary. BIG EYES Screening Date: 7 p.m. Thursday, April 14 In the late 1950s and early '60s, artist Walter Keane (played by Christoph Waltz) achieves unbelievable fame and success with portraits of saucer-eyed waifs. However, no one realizes that his wife, Margaret (Amy Adams), is the real painter behind the brush. THE STORY OF WOMEN AND ART Screening Date: 7 p.m. Thursday, May 19 Professor Amanda Vickery journeys from Renaissance Italy to the Dutch Republic and discovers a hidden world of female artistry. She rescues dazzling female artists from the shadows and reveals stories of courage and determination in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. DOROTHEA LANGE: GRAB A HUNK OF LIGHTNING Screening Date: 7 p.m. Thursday, June 16 A film narrated and directed by Dorothea Lange’s granddaughter, award-winning filmmaker Dyanna Taylor, tells the story of the passion, vision, and drive that made Lange one of the most important documentary photographers of the 20th century. IRIS Screening Date: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 14 From documentarian Albert Maysles, IRIS pairs the late 88-year-old filmmaker with Iris Apfel, the quick-witted, flamboyantly dressed 93-year-old style maven who has had an outsized presence on the New York fashion scene for decades. 15

calendar SHORT ATTENTION SPAN THEATRE: STUDIO

Ears & Fingers by Jason Leger

Wild Nothing “Life of Pause”

Jack Tatum seems to reinvent his own version of frequently danceable dream pop with every new album. It feels more of a departure between albums than a continuous stream of similar ideas. In his own words: “The initial goal for this record when I started writing it and the thing that I just kept saying to myself and telling other people was that I wanted it to sound more organic. I was afraid after making “Nocturne” that it felt very soft but very mechanical; very rigid in a way that was intentional… I wanted this record to feel more natural. I wanted it to ebb and flow in a way that the other records did not.” Finally getting to hear the completed work opened my eyes to understanding exactly what he was talking about and where his head was during the recording of upcoming full length “Life of Pause.” This LP is glowing from beginning to end. Shimmering, relaxed and even stunning pop music makes

THURSDAY 2.18

WINE TASTING AT AWM 5 p.m. Try some-

thing new every week at Aragon Wine Market’s regular wine tasting, only a few blocks from downtown. Aragon Wine Market, 27 S. 9th Ave. aragonwinemarket.com

up the entirety of “Life of Pause,” but there is a strong sense of naturalism that exists throughout the whole project, which separates it from its predecessors. The highlight for me is the title track, a blossoming song that easily could have been recorded 25 years ago and no one would have been the wiser. Tatum’s strong suit is being flexible with the music that he writes, but he is also extremely gifted at surpassing time and style to gratify his audience and himself. “Life of Pause” is out Feb. 19 via Captured Tracks. .

IF YOU HAVEN’T HEARD:

COOL UNCLE

While I did hear the name Cool Uncle several times last year and felt intrigued by the title alone, I did nothing to pursue it whatsoever. I regret that. Last week, the song ‘Mercy’ came to my attention, so I finally looked into the project. Cool Uncle is a crossgenerational collaboration between soul singer Bobby Caldwell and young buck producer Jack Splash. This somewhat awkward combination comes together considerably smoother than it may seem, and the result is actually pretty incredible. The duo presents calmness by way of not trying to break away from their particular strengths and playing to what they know: R&B that’s clean as hell and beautiful, heart-wrenching soul. Their self-titled album was released late last year and featured some well-respected names, including Cee-Lo Green, Mayer Hawthorne, and Jessie Ware.

DOCUMENTARY SCREENING: CODE 6:30 p.m. This will be a Gulf Coast premiere of this movie. Proceeds benefit the Pensacola MESS Hall and the Junior League of Pensacola. Carmike Cinema Bayou 15, 5149 Bayou Blvd. $12. pensacolacodes.com GRIZFOLK 7 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S.

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There’s really very little humor or even whimsy when it comes to R&B. The genre is full of love songs, ballads and break-up songs, which are all very serious topics. The fact that Caldwell and Splash don’t take themselves too seriously and allow their music to feel lighthearted is a very welcome distinction. This album is a breath of fresh air, and I strongly recommend it for just about anyone. “Cool Uncle” is out now via Victor Records.

TRACK OF THE WEEK:

‘Whitney No Woman’

I was extremely bummed last year when the news broke that Smith Westerns had called it quits. They were an extremely talented band who were young and had nothing holding them back. Well, nothing aside from not continuing to be a band. I hoped that at least some of the members would turn up in other places. Whitney is the first project like that. Max Kakacek and Julian Ehrlich decided to continue making music together after SW fell apart, and if their first single is any indication, the best from them is still yet to come. ‘No Woman’ is a freewheeling, slightly-pained, masterfully-done, catchy-as hell track, and for right now is a one, as no proper release has been announced quite yet. I will certainly keep you informed when more music or information becomes available on Whitney. This is certainly a band I will be keeping a close eye on. Download or stream ‘No Woman’ over on Whitney’s Soundcloud page. {in}

Palafox. $15. vinylmusichall.com

DON WILLIAMS LIVE! 7:30 p.m. If anyone

ever needed proof that music is an international language, then they need to look no further than Don Williams. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. $43-$53. pensacolasaenger.com

400 SERIES 7:30 p.m. Six one acts: an evening of one-act plays that find the humor, truth, darkness and surprises in romance and relationships. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. $10-$17. pensacolalittletheatre.com

FRIDAY 2.19

PENSACON 1 p.m. Expect Sci-Fi, Fantasy,

Horror, Comics, Anime, Gaming and much more. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. $55-$80. pensacolabaycenter.com WINE TASTING 5-7 p.m. Out and about in East Hill on Friday night? Stop by City Grocery for their free weekly wine tasting before settling in or heading out for the night. City Grocery, 2050 N. 12th Ave. GALLERY NIGHT 5-9 p.m. Stroll through the charming brick walkway of Downtown Pensacola to experience an eclectic array of music, art and cuisine. Explore galleries and businesses featuring works of dozens of local artists. Soak up the sounds of local musicians and the aromas of local cuisine as the energy of the evening carries you from venue to venue. Palafox St. downtownpensacola.com AN EVENING WITH MOLLY RINGWALD 7 and 9:30 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. $25-$100. vinylmusichall.com DATE NIGHT DANCING 7:15-8:15 p.m. Learn the basics of several romantic ballroom and country dance styles in a unique group class that keeps partners together. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. 850-5031123. $10. dancecraftfl.com SHORT ATTENTION SPAN THEATRE: STUDIO 400 SERIES 7:30 p.m. Six one acts: an eve-

ning of one-act plays that find the humor, truth, darkness and surprises in romance and relationships. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. $10-$17. pensacolalittletheatre.com

SATURDAY 2.20

SANTA ROSA FARMERS MARKET 8 a.m.-1

p.m. Fresh local produce, honey, baked goods and live music. Pace Presbyterian Church, Woodbine Road, Pace. PALAFOX MARKET 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art

Sam’s Seafood—Celebrating over 32 years •Catering Services Available!

•Tuesdays All You Can Eat Shrimp*

•Pensacola’s original seafood restaurant

•Thursdays All You Can Eat Catfish Fillets*

•Like us on Facebook

*All you can eat specials are from 4:00pm to close. Dine in only, items cannot be split.

420 South “A” Street | Pensacola, FL 32502 | (850) 432-6626 inweekly.net

calendar

FOREVER DIETING? arts & culture

≥Exhibits

FUNKY TURNS 40

Grizfolk

and antiques are just a few of the items offered at the weekly Palafox Market. Items originate directly from participating vendors, including dozens of local farmers, home gardeners and area artists. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza, N. Palafox. palafoxmarket.com THE WISDOM OF MYTH 10 a.m. What do the stories of mythology really mean? Come explore how ancient myths can inspire you today. A meditative technique “Thinking Mythically” will be presented. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden St. Contact: mythos.sd@gmail.com PENSACON 10 a.m. Expect Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Horror, Comics, Anime, Gaming and much more. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. $55-$80. pensacolabaycenter.com BAD GIRLS OF BURLESQUE 6 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. $15-$60. vinylmusichall.com LIGHT OF THE MOON TOURS 7-8:30 p.m. Climb to the top of the Pensacola Lighthouse for the most breathtaking view of a moonlit Pensacola Bay. A bit of history and some ghost stories combine to make this an interesting and fun tour for all. Pensacola Lighthouse, 2081 Radford Blvd. $6. www. pensacolalighthouse.com SHORT ATTENTION SPAN THEATRE: STUDIO 400 SERIES 7:30 p.m. Six one acts: an eve-

ning of one-act plays that find the humor, truth, darkness and surprises in romance and relationships. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. $10-$17. pensacolalittletheatre.com ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW 9 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com

SUNDAY 2.21

PENSACON 10 a.m. Expect Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Horror, Comics, Anime, Gaming and much more. Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. $55-$80. pensacolabaycenter.com

MONDAY 2.22

DANCE LESSONS 6:30 p.m. Swing, Country,

and Ballroom. Professional partner dance instruction for all skill levels. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. 850-503February 18, 2016

1123. $10. dancecraftfl.com

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY 7:30 p.m. The

Sleeping Beauty is a full-length ballet in three acts replete with beautiful costumes, grand scenery, elegant dancers and the time honored story of the magic of a true loves kiss. The music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikowski and choreography by Marius Petipa. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. $40-$50. Pensacolasaenger.com

TUESDAY 2.23

DANCE LESSONS 6:30 p.m. Country, swing, and ballroom. Professional partner dance instruction for all skill levels. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. 850-5031123. $10. dancecraftfl.com TUESDAY NIGHT POETRY NIGHT 7 p.m. Free open-mic poetry event every Tuesday. Sluggo’s Vegetarian Restaurant, 101 S. Jefferson St. facebook.com/TNPN STOMP 7:30 p.m. STOMP is an exclusive, inventive, provocative, witty and utterly unique an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous television shows. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. $52. pensacolasaenger.com

WEDNESDAY 2.24

DANCE LESSONS 6:30 p.m. West Coast Swing. Professional partner dance instruction for all skill levels. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. 850-503-1123. $10. dancecraftfl.com THE LADY WITH ALL THE ANSWERS 7:30 p.m. For decades, renowned newspaper advice columnist Ann Landers responded to countless questions from lovelorn teens, confused couples, and a multitude of others in need of advice on matters small and momentous like the proper way to hang toilet paper rolls. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. $25-$45. pensacolasaenger.com DANCE PARTY 8-10 p.m. A mix of swing, country, and ballroom music for partner dancing on the best wood dance floor in the area. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. 850-503-1123. $10. dancecraftfl.com

This exhibition commemorates the 40th anniversary of 1970’s Saturday morning cartoons that featured positive black characters for the first time in television history. The exhibition includes original production cells and drawings used to produce these cartoons. On display until April 9. Museum hours and location: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org NEEDLE ART SHOW

Over 75 needle art pieces featuring stitches such as hardanger, needlepoint, counted cross stitch and pulled threads. On display through February 24. The Wright Place, 6 E. Wright St.

COLLECTION IN CONTEXT: WOMEN CREATING This

exhibition presents the diversity and growing strength of the PMA’s Permanent Collection highlighting female modern and postmodern artists through a variety of media. On display until February 27. Museum hours and location: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org

≥Call for Art

UPTOWN/DOWNTOWN Artists are

invited to submit their contemporary creations to Artel’s latest exhibit which is themed “Uptown/ Downtown.” Haves/ have-nots, city skyline/deserted slums, dress up/ dress down. Bringing contrasts together visually is the point of the exhibit. As a

diptych or contrasting subjects in one work, go to two extremes and come up with the visual vibration that arrives. Submission is Saturday, March 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, March 6, 1-4 p.m. Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox. artelgallery.com

Classes & Workshops

“MAKE-YOUROWN-GLASS” CLASS

TIME TO CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT FOOD. A LUMINOUS LIFE HYPNOTHERAPY

SUSAN DUNLOP, MA, CHT

INTERNATIONALLY CERTIFIED HYPNOTHERAPIST

850-346-7865 EAST HILL

www.luminouslifehypnotherapy.com

10a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, February 19 and Saturday February 20. Held weekly on Friday and Saturday, First City Art Center offers weekly “Make-YourOwn-Glass” classes, no previous glassblowing skills necessary. The classes are open to anyone age 8 and older and range in price from $25-$45. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required and can be made by calling 429-1222. First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. firstcityart.org

unique & affordable

Join us for Wine Tastings Thursdays 5-7 p.m. 27 S. 9th Ave.

433-WINE or 433-9463

www.aragonwinemarket.com

INTRODUCTION TO POTTERY ON THE WHEEL 6-8:30 p.m.

Monday, February 22. During this weekly workshop held on Monday evenings at First City Art Center, instructor Pearl VanHoove works individually with students to develop consistency in throwing on the wheel. Participants receive an introduction to materials, equipment and throwing techniques. Each session begins with a brief demonstration followed by hands-on time at the wheel. The class is $40 and open to individuals age 14 and up. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required and can be made by calling 4291222. Class is limited to two participants. First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. firstcityart.org

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THE MERRY WIDOW March 11 & 13

A comedic tale of matchmaking packed with lavish parties and lilting waltzes.

pensacolaopera.com | (850) 433-6737 818 1

inweekly.net

news of the weird MILITARY INTELLIGENCE The head of U.S. Navy intelligence has for more than two years been prohibited from accessing classified information (as the Pentagon disclosed to The Washington Post in January). Vice Admiral Ted Branch came under investigation in 2013 in a corruption scandal involving a foreign defense contractor and various Navy personnel and might have been suspended from all duties—except that, given the political gridlock in Washington, no consensus candidate has emerged. No charges have been filed against Branch, but before he enters any room at the Pentagon, classified material must be stowed away. RECURRING THEMES New World Order: (1) Yet another woman gave birth to her own granddaughter in January. Tracey Thompson, 54, offered to be the surrogate mother for her fertility-challenged daughter, Kelley, and delivered a 6-pound, 11-ounce girl at The Medical Center in Plano, Texas. (2) After notable successes in the United States, Latin America claimed in December its first transgender pregnancy after Ecuadorean Fernando Machado announced he was expecting a child with his partner Diane Rodriguez. Fernando used to be "Maria"; Diane used to be "Luis"; and though both undergo hormone therapy, they have retained their birth organs.—Overexcited police departments occasionally feel the need to safeguard towns by zealous enforcement of anti-gambling laws. In November, police in Altamonte Springs, Florida, raided the Escondido Community Clubhouse, formally shutting down the retirement village's games of bingo, bunko, penny poker and— most controversially —the weekly sessions of the culturally venerated mahjong. Although none of the games is illegal under state law, advertising for-money games is, and the notices in the Heritage Florida Jewish News were such attention-getters that the pots for the games often grew to exceed the $10 legal maximum. (Given mahjong's sociological significance, news of the bust was even reported in Jerusalem's Times of Israel.) PERSPECTIVE On the heels of a similar program in Richmond, California, Washington, D.C.'s D.C. Council authorized funding in January to pay stipends to notorious criminals if they stop committing crimes. Police would identify up to 50 residents likely to violently offend again in 2016 and offer them periodic cash payments plus special training and educational benefits—as long as they stay out of trouble. Officials in Richmond (once overwhelmed by gun deaths) say their program, commenced almost 10 years ago, has produced a 76 percent drop in gun-related crime. Reports of the prominence of animal urine in various cultures' health regimens have surfaced periodically in News of the Weird, and in December, in Al Qunfudhah, Saudi Arabia, a shop selling camel urine (with a long history of alleged medicinal qualities) was closed by

by Chuck Shepherd

authorities after they found 70 camel-urine bottles actually filled with shopkeeper-urine. •About a decade ago, several fast-food restaurants (especially during evening shifts staffed by sometimes inadequately trained managers) were plagued by a prank phone-caller, posing as law enforcement requesting investigative help, asking managers to strip-search employees for "contraband" and to describe the searches in real time to the caller. (A suspect was arrested, and the calls stopped.) Managerial judgment was also on display at a Morro Bay, California, Burger King in January when a prank caller somehow convinced BK employees to begin shattering the store's windows because of a purported "gas leak." Several windows were smashed in, and an investigation of the call is ongoing. AWKWARD In January, Israeli television journalist Eitam Lachover became the latest to be injured in a high-profile test of a "protective" vest when he volunteered to be stabbed on camera for a news segment. Vest company officials' faces turned quickly sour as the blade penetrated the vest (though the wound was described as "light"). UPDATE News of the Weird's long-time super-creative serial litigant Jonathan Lee Riches filed yet another claim in January— against the Tennessee couple identified as winners in the recent $1.6 billion Powerball lottery. John and Lisa Robinson, Riches says, "owe" him half their winnings because he says he sent their daughter (and his pen pal), Tiffany, $20 to buy Powerball tickets. Riches's lawsuit, written in longhand, claims that he and Tiffany were to be married and move to "a remote island full of milk and honey." Riches had been serving a federal prison term for parole violation, but his current situation was unreported (except that he now claims an alias, "Jihadi Schitz," and wrote from a Philadelphia mosque). It is expected that this lawsuit will suffer the same fate as his against, among others, George W. Bush, Britney Spears, Steve Jobs, Nostrodamus, Plato and the various Kardashians. A NEWS OF THE WEIRD CLASSIC (OCTOBER 2011) A judge in Nice, France, ruled in September (2011) that Article 215 of the French civil code (defining marriage as a "shared communal life") in fact requires that husband and wife have sex. A husband identified only as Jean-Louis B. had evidently lost interest years earlier, and his wife was granted a divorce. Apparently emboldened by her victory, she then filed a monetary claim against the husband for the value of his 21-year-long lack of service, and the judge awarded her 10,000 euros (then worth about $13,710—$653 a year). {in}

Send your weird news to Chuck Shepherd, P.O. Box 18737, Tampa, Fla., 33679 or weirdnews@earthlink.net, or go to newsoftheweird.com February 18, 2016

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