Inweekly Feb 24 2022

Independent News | February 24, 2022 | Volume 23 | Number 8 | Photo Courtesy of Pensacola Mardi Gras

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winners & losers

outtakes

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5

news

6, 8, 9

It’s all-consuming.

a&e

buzz 10

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publisher Rick Outzen

graphic designer Tim Bednarczyk

editor & creative director Joani Delezen

contributing writers Gina Castro, Savannah Evanoff, Jennifer Leigh, Jeremy Morrison, Sydney Robinson, C.S. Satterwhite, Tom St. Myer

contact us info@inweekly.net

happenings 14

Independent News is published by Inweekly Media, Inc., P.O. Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591. (850)438-8115. All materials published in Independent News are copyrighted. © 2022 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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winners & losers

Willie Carter / Courtesy of MyEscambia

winners WILLIE CARTER On Tuesday, Feb. 15, Es-

cambia County Area Transit (ECAT) honored Willie Carter for 47 years of service as a professional bus operator. In celebration of Carter's service and Black History Month, ECAT dedicated a bus wrap to Carter. He has a true passion for the job, and despite his long tenure, he has no desire to quit any time soon.

His driving record and reputation are impeccable. The dedication took place at a surprise ceremony Tuesday morning at the Rosa Parks Transit Center, 1515 W. Fairfield Drive.

STEPHAN HALL Escambia County brought

back Hall as the finance director for the Office of Management and Budget. He has over 19 years of experience in local government, having begun his career with Escambia County as a budget analyst in 2002. After five years, he was promoted to budget manager. Ten years later, Hall assumed the role of interim finance director, which he held until he left in May 2020 to be the city's budget manager. Through establishing a proficient and functional budget office, he aims to set up accurate budgeting and financial practices to ensure operational and financial efficiencies are realized and made available.

NAVARRE BEACH FIRE RESCUE INC.

Land Rover handed over a customized Land Rover Defender to Navarre Beach Fire Rescue Inc. for winning the Fire Safety and Response category in the Land Rover Defender Above & Beyond Service Awards. Inspired by the endless acts of service across the U.S. from extraordinary non-profits, Land Rover launched the Defender Above & Beyond Service Awards to celebrate U.S.-based charitable organizations making a positive impact in their communities.

THE NEW YORK TIMES A jury found that

there was insufficient evidence to prove the newspaper had defamed Sarah Palin in a 2017 editorial that erroneously linked her political rhetoric to a mass shooting. The verdict came a day after the judge said he would dismiss the case if the jury ruled in her favor because her legal team had failed to provide sufficient evidence. Palin plans to appeal.

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losers CITY OF PENSACOLA The First District Court of Appeal has reversed a lower court ruling that allowed to remain in place an injunction blocking North Hill property owners Larry and Ellen Vickery from removing a tree from their land. In 2019, the city of Pensacola had filed a declaratory judgment action in an effort to save the tree. In his ruling, local Judge Jeffrey Burns determined that the city proved each required element to keep the injunction in place, including presenting evidence that it will suffer irreparable harm and establishing that the injunction will serve the public interest. The appellate court disagreed and ruled that the injunction was improper.

GEORGE ZIMMERMAN Judge John Cooper

in Tallahassee dropped George Zimmerman's 2019 defamation suit against the family of the teen, Treyvon Martin, he shot and killed in 2012.

Zimmerman alleged that Martin's parents had conspired to slander his name by portraying him as a racist murderer. The suit also listed as defendants family attorney Ben Crump, HarperCollins Publishers and two women Zimmerman claimed behaved dishonestly throughout his trial. Judge Cooper dropped all charges against the defendants, ruling that Zimmerman had not shown "any fraudulent representation." Zimmerman was acquitted in his 2013 criminal trial.

OCEAN COUNTY The central New Jersey county is one of the least vaccinated places in the Northeast. Only 53% of residents have received a COVID-19 vaccine series. Only 26% have received a booster shot. Nearly one out of every 200 residents has died from the virus, worse than Mississippi COVID death per capita and any country except Peru. Ocean County is the highest Republican populated county in the predominantly Democratic state.

CHRISTINA PUSHAW Gov. Ron DeSantis' press secretary took to Twitter to say Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski "lied" when he spoke against an executive action that targets shelters housing unaccompanied migrant youth. Following the Trump administration's belief that press secretaries are supposed to be attack dogs, Pushaw proves that civil political discourse is dead while going for the clicks and retweets rather meaningful dialogue. inweekly.net

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outtakes

By Rick Outzen

PROVEN MODEL Six years ago, C.A. Weis Elementary School adopted the Community Partnership Schools™ model, making the school a neighborhood resource to children and their families. It has become a game-changer.

The Community Partnership School took a long-term commitment between the Children's Home Society of Florida, University of West Florida, Community Health of Northwest Florida and the Escambia County School District to not only improve the students' academic performance but also increase access to health care, family education and after-school activities and remove barriers to economic stability.

In January 2016, Weis Elementary became the first Community Partnership School in Northwest Florida and only the second in the state. The school was one of 11 elementary schools in Escambia County rated a D or lower the previous year. By 2017, its grade had improved to a C. Since then, it has hovered around that grade level.

Studies have shown that one of the biggest threats to academic success is living in or near poverty. Students in poverty are five times more likely to drop out of school. The Florida Department of Education reports that all of Weis Elementary's students are economically disadvantaged. The Children's Home Society of Florida's Community Partnership Schools program has dramatically improved the academic chances for the students at the school.

But the program is about more than just the classroom. Community Health converted two classrooms into a pediatric clinic for students and their siblings. It has grown from having an average of 60 patients a month up to an average of 100-150 visits. The school also offers onsite eye, dental and mental care.

Weis Elementary has implemented the SAIL (Students Achieving Innovating and Leading) Academy. Through after-school and summer programs, SAIL focuses on improving student academic achievement and interpersonal skills and assisting parents in helping their children succeed through STEM, tutoring, mentoring, health and nutrition and social skills training programs. The SAIL Academy also offers

programs such as parent literacy, computer workforce preparation and enrichment classes.

Last year, an IMPACT grant helped fund a paved walking track around the school's campus for the students and the neighborhood.

Now, the Children's Home Society wants to expand the program. It has grown to more than two dozen schools across the state, and the results have been similar to Weis Elementary. The nonprofit has asked the Florida Legislature for $10 million to add more schools.

In its request, the Children's Home Society pointed out the challenges that poverty creates for our children. More than one-third of low-income students begin kindergarten not ready for school. By the time they reach fourth grade, 50% will not be at grade level in reading.

These children don't live in a bubble where the outside world doesn't impact them. Children in poverty are also more likely to experience community violence, homelessness and food insecurity—all impacting their ability to learn, achieve and succeed.

The Children's Home Society has collected data showing that Community Partnership Schools address the needs students face in each community. The results include improved student behavior, increased academic gains and graduation rates, and enhanced parental involvement—a key influencer in student achievement.

Since implementing the Community Partnership School program, Weis Elementary has increased access to health care, family education and after-school activities while reducing discipline referrals by more than 90% and out-of-school suspensions by nearly 94% from 2016-2020. In 2021, 49% of Weis students experienced learning gains in ELA reading, and 51% of students experienced gains in ELA math— surpassing the district averages. And this was accomplished during the middle of a pandemic.

Currently, the Florida House and Senate have not budgeted to invest additional funds in this proven model of success. Please get in touch with our lawmakers—Rep. Alex Andrade, Sen. Doug Broxson, Rep. Michelle Salzman and Rep. Jayer Williamson—and ask them to support the request. {in} rick@inweekly.net

Studies have shown that one of the biggest threats to academic success is living in or near poverty.

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REVEREND POWELL AND HIS GRASSROOTS CAMPAIGN

Rev. John Powell / Photo by SnL Photography

By C. Scott Satterwhite There is currently a campaign to save one of Pensacola's most historic buildings at the crossroads of the city's Black cultural heritage, Belmont-DeVilliers streets. Leading this campaign is a humble pastor named Reverend John Powell of Truth for Youth ministries, which is located in the heart of this historic community.

Few, if any, neighborhoods in Pensacola have as much cultural history from the 20th century as Belmont-DeVilliers. Powell's Truth for Youth—a nonprofit organization that's existed since the early 1990s—stands in the center of this community.

According to their website, Truth for Youth has existed for nearly 30 years, and its primary focus is to serve "the needs of our youth" along with giving them "a safe haven that is full of love, joy, guidance and understanding." In this community, there are few people as beloved as Powell is, and his love for the neighborhood is mutual.

For generations, the Belmont-DeVilliers area was the center of Black life in the city.

Forming in the years following the implementation of Jim Crow laws, which forced racial segregation throughout the state, the Black neighborhood thrived in response to the conditions. Many of the buildings in "The Blocks," as the neighborhood is often referred, were built by famed Pensacolian John Sunday—an African American politician from the Reconstruction era who lived well into the 20th century.

Sunday saw the gains of Reconstruction for Pensacola's Black community but also saw the tragic losses when racist laws forced the city's Black community out of the downtown area.

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Despite the hardships and daily indignities created by Florida's Jim Crow laws, Sunday and many in Pensacola's Black community prospered in the Blocks. Nearly every facet of life and death was handled within a few blocks of the intersection.

Known far and wide for its musical contribution to the culture, artists as stylistically diverse as Louis Armstrong and Aretha Franklin played in the same neighborhood where internationally renowned pianist Don Shirley learned his craft. Posted across the street from Reverend Powell's Truth for Youth ministry is one of the very few markers on the Mississippi Blues Trail outside of Mississippi.

Describing the neighborhood during its heyday, Powell said, "We had our own pharmacy, our own doctor's office, our own furniture store, Gussie's Record Shop and WBOP radio station."

"That neighborhood has such a history," said Powell.

History fills every facet of this community—a fact that Powell recognizes and sees as a legacy he is upholding. This history includes Powell's building.

Originally built around 1916 by the Reed Bakery Company, the building went through many owners, including the Smith Bakery out of Mobile, which became a local mainstay.

"A lot of the community had a job because of the bakery, and the bakery helped a lot of the churches in the area," said Powell.

Powell himself moved to Pensacola in the early 1960s from a small town in Alabama. He said he originally thought the town was called "Pepsi-Cola," he admitted with a laugh.

In the small Alabama community from where Powell grew up, "we were all Black." As a result, he said he never thought about racial

relations because everyone he knew identified as the same race.

"When I came to Pensacola, I got my first shock."

Powell described going to drug stores and ice cream shops and seeing the signs "Colored" and "White."

"I saw that, and I said, 'What is that?' That's when I learned that there was somewhat of a difference [between races]."

During the Vietnam War, Powell joined the U.S. Marines. He credited his time in the Marines as helping him shape his views on race, which helped him when he returned to Pensacola. In the years following his service, the former Marine grew increasingly concerned about what he was seeing on the streets of Pensacola and how inner-city poverty affected the city's youth.

Recalling conversations around this time, Powell thought back to his wife.

"My wife said, 'If you're not going to do anything, stop complaining,'" said Powell. "As the former Marine that I am, I decided I could do something."

Before starting his own nonprofit, Powell worked with battered and abused children in the community and used this experience to build Truth for Youth.

"We started out in the projects near the Fricker [Community] Center," said Powell as he recounted the early days of Truth for Youth.

Through a large series of community gatherings, youth lock-ins and countless charitable events, Truth for Youth has grown exponentially since 1993.

"We've touched somewhere close to 200,000 lives since we started," said Powell.

Moving to Belmont-DeVilliers helped the organization make its community impact stronger as the organization continued to play a major role in people's lives.

Everything from high school proms to senior citizen events happened in Powell's corner of Belmont-DeVilliers. Despite exponential growth, his goal remained the same—to maintain an open space and keep it within the historic community where he claims Truth for Youth is needed most.

"Poverty doesn't discriminate," said Powell.

"When you're broke, you're broke. We try to create a wholesome environment for boys and girls of all races. That's why we purchased that building."

Like many nonprofits, however, the global pandemic hit Truth for Youth hard.

"We were moving right along with it, but we got behind with a few things. We're balancing things out, but I'm happy because we've got good friends," Powell said.

This is where Truth for Youth's "Million Month March" fundraising campaign comes into play.

Powell is currently in the middle of spearheading a campaign to pay off his mortgage and financially secure the building.

Powell sees Truth for Youth's work as crucial to saving the lives of many of Pensacola's most needy children."

You might be born in a certain environment," he said, "but you can rise above your circumstances."

The fundraising campaign does not simply hope to build Truth for Youth, however, but strives to save the building in historic Belmont-DeVilliers.

"The history of the neighborhood is awesome," said Powell. "It's all-consuming."

Powell is not the only one who feels this way.

Local historian Robin Reshard said Powell's campaign "represents a physical, visual and historical commitment to preserving the stories of the people, businesses and places that are and were there."

A founder of the Kukua Institute—a local organization dedicated to preserving and telling Pensacola's Black History—Reshard said the Truth for Youth building is a crucial part of this story.

"It represents the hopes and dreams of the future as we try to continue the economic and community development started generations ago," said Reshard of the physical history of the building.

"It represents all those who came before us and tried their hands at building a life in pursuit of something greater for ourselves, our children, our community and our city."

Reshard added, "I say 'our' [history] because it belongs to all of us, and if we try to erase these physical places and the people therein, then we allow it to happen to any of us. We are all in this together."

Powell's campaign is very grassroots, but the support has been overwhelming.

He said that senior citizens in particular have been donating from their limited and fixed incomes, sometimes giving him jars of coins, because they believe in his mission.

While Powell admits to difficulty in raising money to save this building, he continues to find inspiration in his faith and community.

"I've been struggling with this," said Powell. "Some days are good days, and some days are rough."

"I go down there by myself sometimes, and I walk through there and I pray," said Powell.

"And then I clean it up."

"But I feel like your blessings will come looking for you because they know where you are. They know where you're supposed to be."

To Powell and his supporters, where he and Truth for Youth are supposed to be is in this building.

TRUTH FOR YOUTH truthforyouth.org

TRUTH FOR YOUTH'S "MILLION MONTH MARCH"

All donations and contributions are tax deductible and are currently being accepted on Truth for Youth's website. You can also donate by any of the following methods: •PayPal: truthforyouth.org •Cash App: $TFY1993 •Venmo: @john-powell-368 •Checks: P.O. Box 17871, Pensacola, FL 32522 {in} inweekly.net

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SUN BELT BASKETBALL RETURNS

Photo Courtesy of Visit Pensacola

By Tom St. Myer COVID-19 restrictions threatened to gum up the operations, but the city of Pensacola overcame those challenges last year to successfully host its first Sun Belt Conference men's and women's basketball tournaments.

Pensacola is gearing up for an enhanced encore as the Sun Belt Conference championships return, with the women tipping off first on March 2. The Bay Center will be the exclusive tournament host for six consecutive days. One men's and one women's team from the conference will automatically secure a bid to the NCAA Tournament.

"Everything about the event feels more positive this year," said Ray Palmer, president of the Pensacola Sports Association. "It was our first year, so that was a challenge, and then you had so many rules. The Bay Center had corporate instructions and rules, the state of Florida was giving guidelines, locally, you had guidelines and the Sun Belt had guidelines. The juggling of all those guidelines was stressful for all."

The Sun Belt has committed to playing its conference championships in Pensacola through 2025. Conference Commissioner Keith Gill said Pensacola is an optimal location with its amenities and proximity to the Sun Belt institutions.

"One of the reasons we were so excited about Pensacola, set aside just the community and the great support we got there, is our fans know Pensacola," Gill said. "That's where they vacation. It's not like it's a new place we've got to explain to them. You think about that Gulf Coast of Florida, right along that I-10 corridor; that's where our fans go to vacation. They really know it."

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The commissioner continued, "Being there around spring break, obviously, the great weather, and with the bridge being open, now the beaches are even more accessible than they were last year. I think we're going to have a really exciting tournament, and I think we'll have a great turnout from our fans and supporters."

An economic impact report from Visit Pensacola found that the 2021 conference tournament overcame COVID restrictions to attract nearly 1,800 unique visitors from outside the Pensacola area. Two out of every three out-of-county visitors stayed the night in a hotel or motel, totaling nearly 4,000 nights in Pensacola area accommodations. Out-of-county visitors generated a total economic impact of $1.65 million.

This year's tournaments should exceed the 2021 numbers by a significant margin.

Last year, the teams brought only their players, coaches and essential staff due to the pandemic. Cheerleaders, band members and others associated with the teams will make the trip to Pensacola this time around.

"One of the reasons we were so excited about Pensacola, set aside just the community and the great support we got there, is our fans know Pensacola. That's where they vacation." Keith Gill "This will be a true measure of what this does for the destination, and the impact goes beyond just economic to raising our profile to a destination that can host a competition of this level," Visit Pensacola President and CEO Darien Schaefer said. "We have great

facilities. Could we do baseball or soccer?

Yes, those are possibilities."

Teams will be greeted with welcome banners on light posts, and certain downtown places will be set up to attract their fanbases.

Palmer said the increased number of visitors this year will inevitably lead to a livelier downtown atmosphere.

"You might have some say, 'Let's sing the fight song on Palafox while we are here,'" Palmer said.

The number of out-of-county visitors for the Sun Belt Conference tournaments will almost assuredly increase in future years, too. The conference is set to expand to 14 teams with James Madison, Marshall, Old Dominion and Southern Mississippi, each joining on July 1. Arkansas-Little Rock and Texas-Arlington, two institutions without football programs, will depart the Sun Belt.

"We feel like the future is really bright," Gill said. "Obviously, the present is really good as well for us. In terms of our members, we've got 10 core football-playing members. We've got two members that don't play football right now that actually will be exiting in 2022.

That's certainly going to change the makeup of the conference."

However, the commissioner is optimistic about the conference's four new additions.

"We're really excited about our future, our membership, certainly the quality of our football, the quality of our basketball," said Gill. "It's a really strong baseball league as well, and softball's going to be outstanding. We're fortunate to have comprehensive excellence across all of our sports."

He also was enthusiastic about the conference's partnership with Pensacola "because the community comes out and supports our championship in such a strong way."

Gill added, "The visibility is great for us.

Our fans love coming there because you can see things about the tournament all over the place, whether it's on TV, the newspaper, signs on the sidewalks, on the flag poles, all those kinds of things."

Palmer recalled marveling at the talent on the court last year. He said the talent gap between Sun Belt teams and ACC or SEC teams is relatively minuscule.

The Appalachian State men and Troy women return as conference champions. Both teams nearly won their opening-round NCAA Tournament games a year ago. Appalachian State lost to fellow 16-seed Norfolk State 5453 in an NCAA Tournament First Four game.

The Troy women put a scare in second-seed Texas A&M before losing 84-80.

The NET rankings that the NCAA Tournament selection committee uses as a tool in selecting the 36 at-large bid teams virtually guarantee that only the Sun Belt Conference tournament champions will play in their respective NCAA Tournaments. The NET factors in-game results, the strength of schedule, game location, scoring margin, net offensive and defensive efficiency and the quality of wins and losses in ranking teams. None of the 14 men's or women's teams from the Sun Belt crack the top 100 among the 358 Division-I programs, which means every game in the Bay Center will be a win or season-over scenario for the teams on the court.

"I sat and watched the games last year and thought, 'You're telling me only one of these teams is going to make it to the NCAA Tournament?'" Palmer said. "These guys can really play.

These guys are really good basketball players."

Gill envisions a day when the conference tournaments serve as a homecoming for a significant number of players from the Pensacola area. The exposure that Sun Belt basketball programs generate from their conference tournaments being played in the Pensacola area is a valuable recruiting tool for their coaching staffs. ​"Anything we can do to increase our visibility is only going to be helpful," Gill said.

"I think the recruiting aspect is only going to get better for us. The families can go to games.

They're going to be familiar with the teams.

We're going to be in those regions more often as we keep playing all of our games in the same footprints."

He added, "I think all those things will lend themselves to better exposure, which, anytime you can get more exposure and more visibility, that is going to help you in the recruiting space as people get to know you better."

Before ending the phone call, the commissioner wanted to repeat how excited the Sun Belt Conference was about returning to Pensacola. He said, "We can't wait to get there— such a great community and a great host for us."

For the latest information on the tournaments, visit visitpensacola.com/sunbelt. {in} inweekly.net

MARITIME DEVELOPMENT RECAP

Photo Courtesy of City of Pensacola

By Jeremy Morrison Though some expressed concerns about the funding, rebates and blight, the Pensacola City Council has given its initial approval, by a 5-2 vote, for a mixed-use development for the surface parking lot and a green space in front of the stadium at the Maritime Park.

The council's conceptual approval of Inspired Communities of Florida's plans for Parcels 4 and 5 starts the clock for city staff to complete the lease and option agreement by the end of March.

Inspired's $110 million project calls for 600 residential units, up to 50,000 square feet of retail space and a 900-space parking garage. The developer will pay half of the garage's estimated $22 million price tag for the spaces its tenants will use. The city will foot the balance to cover its need for public parking and the contractual commitments to the Blue Wahoos and Maritime Place and provide spaces for the other parcels.

The developer gets a 99-year lease. The project would be completed in two phases. The first phase must be completed no later than Jan. 1, 2026. If the northern half of the property is developed first, the annual lease fee is $325,000.

If the southern half is developed first, the annual fee is $275,000. When the second phase is com-

pleted, the total lease will increase to $500,000 a year. The lease will increase 5% every five years.

The project will pay an additional $45,000 annually toward Maritime Park maintenance, with increases shared on a prorated basis.

Additionally, Inspired would be granted an Area Reinvestment Agreement/Tax Increment Revenue rebate worth about $15 million over 20 years. Last year, the city council approved the ARA/TIF rebate program for the West Main District as an incentive to promote its redevelopment. Inspired will pay 25% of the TIF taxes for the first 10 years and 50% for the next decade.

If the council approves the final agreement next month, Inspired will have an exclusive option on the two parcels through Aug. 31, 2023.

The developer will pay $3,480 per month for the option. It may obtain one six-month extension for a non-refundable lump sum of $60,000.

"During those 18 months, the checks paid for the option pale in comparison to the money that Inspired will be spending to do their homework and due diligence," Andrew Rothfeder told Inweekly after the council vote. He is the real estate consultant who has helped Mayor Grover Robinson and his staff negotiate the terms of the deal with Inspired.

"Inspired doesn't have to commit for 18 months, but they're getting more and more invest-

ed," Rothfeder explained. "They're hiring Cooper Carry to do all their architectural plans and concept designs. They're doing market studies.

They're hiring engineers, and they're doing all their homework to determine if the project is financially feasible so that a lender will help finance it."

He continued, "Right now, we're at the fiveyard line, 95%'s negotiated. We just got to turn that 10-page term sheet into a 50-page ground lease with the details."

Council President Ann Hill and Councilwoman Jennifer Brahier voted against the project. Hill wasn't sure how the city would fund its half of a $22 million parking garage. Brahier questioned the use of ARA/TIF rebate.

"We don't go into the black here until 2037, is that right?" asked Brahier. "So we're going to take the most prized public property and subsidize it? That is bizarre to me; honestly, that is just bizarre to me."

Rothfeder pointed out to Inweekly that if the city council chose not to enter into a partnership on the parking garage, Inspired would build a smaller structure. The city would show positive cash flow immediately because it would have no debt service. However, the city would have to find another way to provide public parking and meet its agreements with Maritime Place and the Blue Wahoos. Valencia's proposed luxury hotel on Parcel 7 is predicated on spaces being available in the Inspired parking garage.

He said, "No matter who develops Parcels 4 and 5, the city has to build a minimum of 300 parking spaces somewhere and have spaces available for the public, Valencia and developments on the other parcels. Why not expand Inspired's facility to meet those needs?"

Brahier also questioned whether Inspired's project met the criteria for the ARA/TIF rebate program, which includes among a list of 12 objectives the prevention or elimination of blighting conditions.

"This is the biggest problem, is that there are two places in all of downtown that we have given a tax rebate to—this would be the second. One is Southtowne, and one is this," Brahier said. "I don't get it. When you go in there and read all the TIF and the CRA stuff, it's about blight. That's not

blight. I mean, I don't understand; that's not where the effort needs to be to help people of this town."

The Area Reinvestment Policy requires a developer to demonstrate that there will be a substantial public benefit to the community by eliminating blight, strengthening the economic and employment base of the West Main District, positively impacting surrounding neighborhoods, increasing property values and the tax base, and creating new and retaining existing jobs.

Rothfeder said the Trillium site was a blighted area when the referendum was passed in 2006. Mixed-use development was always intended to be part of its redevelopment. He told Inweekly, "The Inspired project meets the original mixed-use intentions for the park. It completes the redevelopment of the original blight across from city hall."

Councilman Casey Jones said he had concerns about blight, but they were tempered by the developer's commitment to designate 10% of the residential units as affordable housing units.

"Today, we heard that there is going to be 10% affordable housing there," Jones said during the council's Feb. 10 meeting, "and that does help our community. That is what we need, affordable housing."

Rothfeder pointed out that the ARA/TIF rebate program requires the 10% set-aside. He said Inspired's Harold Dawson's father pioneered affordable housing. When he asked Dawson about the 10% affordable housing, the developer laughed and said, "You guys aren't doing enough.

We're going to do way more than that."

Maritime Park resides in the Tanyard. Councilwoman Teniade Broughton expects Inspired to enhance the historically mixed-use, mixedincome area that she described "as old as Treme in New Orleans" once populated with "beautiful Creole cottages all around" that suffered from "a long history of government neglect."

"I look forward to the next phase of this project," Broughton said. "Keep in mind that Tanyard residents want something vibrant; they want something to give them jobs and connect them back to the rest of the waterfront. Please be very creative, and I'm hoping that you will deliver for what they ask." {in}

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our parking lot is completely full. And most of the workers have a minimum of, I think, 80 to 90 people working daily on that vessel. So it's really ramped up."

Merritt continued, "They're kind of tightlipped about what their plans are, unlike their competitor, SpaceX. So we don't ask, and they don't tell, but the way it looks, that vessel's going to be here for probably through the end of 2022."

He sees the port's relatively small size as an asset. Merritt said, "I think we're small enough to where we can capitalize quickly on an emergent opportunity. For example, Streamlined Boats. Its manufacturing facility is undergoing construction at the port. They came to us, and we were able to capitalize on what they needed to do and enter into a longterm lease which the city council approved."

He added, "When they're up and running, we hope, by the end of this year, their plans are to hire 60 employees building semi-custom, high-end, center console boats."

In September 2010, O'Rourke was the University of West Florida's first writer-inresidence. He worked with writing students and spoke in several English, communication arts and government classes. He also delivered an address at the UWF Center for Fine and Performing Art Mainstage Theatre to about 250 students and community members.

O'Rourke shared his theory about how government works.

"The government is a Rottweiler ready to be unleashed on your problems, and you've got stuffed meat down your pants," said the Republican who wrote for Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, National Lampoon, The Atlantic and other publications. O'Rourke was also a bestselling author.

The residency was O'Rourke's second visit to UWF. He was a lecturer in the UWF Jerry Maygarden Lecture Series in October 2009.

Dr. Jane Halonen, who was the Dean of College of Arts and Sciences in 2010, shared with Inweekly publisher Rick Outzen how the writer-in-residence occurred.

"He enjoyed himself so much when he came in as the Jerry Maygarden lecturer," said Halonen. "I was surprised I got a call from his agent, David Buchalter of Greater Talent. And Dave said, 'You know, PJ enjoyed himself so much, he's kind of interested in the teaching life, and he wondered if he could come back to UWF and try that out.'"

She continued, "I was stunned at the call, but I said, 'Gee, that means I would be PJ's boss? Sure, let's see if we can make that happen.' And fortunately, the UWF Foundation saw some wisdom in importing PJ for the weekend, so that's what we were able to arrange."

Halonen said that while O'Rourke acted like a curmudgeon on the surface, he was "probably one of the kindest, most gracious people I think I've ever encountered." He covered three topics in his presentations to UWF students.

She said, "In English, he talked about how to use humor as a tool for getting things done in writing. In government, he talked about one of his heroes, Adam Smith. And then for communication arts, he talked about the relationship between communication and liberty."

Halonen added, "He absolutely fell in love with our students and said things like, 'They listen; they're polite; they respond to education in the way that we want.'"

She said he sent her a note after one of his presentations. O'Rourke wrote, "I don't know what your secret is at UWF, but for Pete's sake, would you please share it with Harvard?"

O'ROURKE AND UWF Conservative political satirist P.J. O'Rourke died last week. Upon hearing of his death, The New York Times wrote, "In articles, in best sellers and as a talk show regular, he was a voice from the right skewering whatever in government or culture he thought needed it."

AIRPORT'S BRIGHT FUTURE Airport Director Matt Coughlin told Inweekly that he's uncertain whether the airlines will add more non-stop flights out of the Pensacola International Airport this year.

"The airlines, I think, last year—given the craziness of the times—were, for lack of better

Photo by Realography / Shutterstock.com

BOOMING PORT Port Director Clark Merritt shared with Inweekly that the Port of Pensacola is as busy as it's been in years.

"About four or five years ago, we made a concerted effort to make sure that we were diversifying the Port revenue lines," said Clark.

"As a port, our goal was always to bring import and export cargo, but as a regional port, our goal is to support the local economy as well."

Cemex stores bulk cement at an 80,000-square-foot facility at the port and has begun importing it from Central America.

The port director said, "They bring it in via vessel, and then they distribute that to the concrete batch plants across the region to meet the growing need in the construction industry.

We've seen a dramatic increase in tonnage with that customer."

Since mid-2021, the GE Wind Energy Plant has started importing raw components used at the factory up off Scenic Highway. Merritt said, "Before, those were coming into other ports like Mobile or Houston and being trucked over. So it's been a big boon to us here recently to have those dramatic increases in our total cargo tonnage. Tonnage was up 13% over from the fiscal year 2020 to 2021."

Offshore Inland continues to work on Blue Origin's vessel. He said, "They've ramped up production as far as their work on that vessel since the new year. If you drive by the port, 010 1

terms, kind of spit balling what they felt would be profitable," Coughlin said. "They were trying to see what would stick, and I think what you're going to see this year is maybe a little bit of a reset on their part."

The airport director believes the airlines may add more extensive equipment to make their profitable routes more profitable. He said, "The airlines are still trying to catch up.

They're having issues with aircrews and equipment. They face a lot of challenges, but they do recognize a profitable route, and they're going to go for it."

He continued, "Last year, typically, we'd see about 20 non-stop destinations out of Pensacola, and we bumped up to 30 last summer. Now, what it'll settle out at next summer remains to be seen."

"Last year, typically, we'd see about 20 non-stop destinations out of Pensacola, and we bumped up to 30 last summer." Matt Coughlin Coughlin said the new parking should open in March. He said, "If you drove by the airport around Thanksgiving or Christmas this year, you saw that we had an overflow lot out from the airport in a field. We do not want to operate that way. It's a good problem to have, obviously, but we want to be a little bit more formalized in how we do our parking."

After having served as the commanding officer of NAS Whiting Field's base from 2011-14, Coughlin is a fan of his role with the airport.

"I love it," he shared. "I'm sitting here in the office, and when you're buried in work, you can just look out the window. Every once in a while, I just need to look up and get that sanity check from the craziness, but it's awesome. It's been a huge learning experience for me, and I feel very privileged to be here."

TEACHERS' PAY RAISE On Feb. 15, the

Escambia County School District (ECSD) and the Escambia Educators Association (EEA) reached an agreement to improve salaries for teachers for the 2021-2022 school year.

Teachers on the Performance Pay Schedule will receive a $600 increase to all levels, raising the new hires from $43,500 to $44,100. Those who received an evaluation in the 2020-2021 year will receive an additional $600 for an "Effective" rating and $800 for a "Highly Effective" rating.

Teachers on the Grandfather Pay Schedule will get a Longevity supplement of $1,000 if they received at least an "Effective" rating and a performance payment of $200 for an "Effective" rating and $400 for "Highly Effective" in the last school year.

With this agreement, the Highly Effective teacher will receive a $1, 400 raise regardless of their salary schedule. By dividing it in this inweekly.net

manner, the ECSD remains compliant with Florida House Bill 5101.

To further reward teachers with high qualifications, the agreement provides an additional $300 supplement to any instructor with a Reading Endorsement or master's in Reading and a general 10% improvement to the Advanced Degree instructional supplement schedule.

Furthermore, the Board also recognizes all instructional personnel has incurred numerous hours of lost planning time over the school year. Teachers are covering classes and are frequently required to add additional students to their classrooms due to teacher absences.

To compensate for these occurrences, this agreement includes a one-time payment of $275 to all instructional personnel employed on or before Jan. 3, 2022, and maintain continuous employment through the last day of school.

Upon ratification and school board approval, salary schedules shall be increased and are retro to July 1, 2021, for all employees and retirees.

CHARTER CONCERNS Pensacola Mayor

Grover Robinson has concerns about where the city's charter review commission might be heading.

"If you thought they were simply going to tweak the charter, I'm not so sure," Mayor Robinson said during his weekly press conference on Monday, Feb. 14. "It seemed like there were several people who wanted to redo the charter totally."

Robinson expressed concerns about the charter review commission flirting with rethinking the city's strong-mayor form of government during the previous charter review process. The mayor said that the current form of executive-leaning government, instead of a more council-centric form, is more efficient and helped the city with "attracting and retaining talent."

Accompanying Mayor Robinson for the press conference were City Administrator Kerrith Fiddler, deputy administrators Amy Miller and David Forte, who were present to relay "why they

think this function, or this form of government, works in advantage for them to think about wanting to work here at the city of Pensacola."

Fiddler spoke about how Pensacola is the first strong-mayor city he has worked for. His other five positions were in council-city manager municipalities, and he described those environments as less efficient.

"Trying to get things done can be very challenging," Fiddler said, explaining how he could go "right next door" to speak with the mayor at any time, whereas meetings with council members would require numerous appointments.

Forte, who came to the city from Escambia County, also praised the efficiency of the executive, pointing out the value of a "clear line of communication from the top down."

"I can clearly state that during the two years that I've been here, compared to the 13 years previously with Escambia County, the efficiency, with the strong mayor form of government, and the productivity is almost night and day difference," Forte said. "Having one individual to report to is much cleaner than maybe having seven or eight individuals to report to; it just makes it definitely more efficient, more effective."

Miller, who oversees the city's enterprise operations, focused on productivity. Miller has been with the city during its current strongmayor form of government and its previous council-manager form. She said the current system has proven a "tremendous advantage to the city of Pensacola" and also "one of the reasons that we're experiencing the growth and the vitality and the successes that we're experiencing right now."

"I think the system of government works.

Can it be tweaked? Can you do things differently? Sure," Mayor Robinson summed up, pushing for the review commission to stick to minor tweaks and leave the strong-mayor form of government unaltered.

THE 28TH ANNUAL DAY OF CARING This

year, more than 500 individuals have registered to roll up their sleeves for Day of Caring on

Friday, Feb. 25. They will complete projects at 29 nonprofit agencies and schools in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

Many organizations rely on Day of Caring to get important projects done. A team of volunteers from Navy Federal Credit Union will be gardening and doing light construction of staging, a tool shed, and picnic tables at Magdalene's, 3268 Fordham Parkway, Gulf Breeze.

"Magdalene's is so grateful for this opportunity to be a part of United Way of West Florida Day of Caring," said Jackie Bell, Magdalene's board member. "This is our first year participating, and the process has been seamless. We will be able to accomplish in one day what would otherwise take weeks."

"This is our first year participating, and the process has been seamless.

We will be able to accomplish in one day what would otherwise take weeks." Jackie Bell This year, 35 different companies and civic groups are sending volunteer teams out to work on Day of Caring projects. Those volunteers, and the companies they work for, know Day of Caring is a way they can make the community stronger.

Besides Magdalene's, Navy Federal volunteers will also work on playground preparation and landscaping at Santa Rosa Kids' House, sort food items for Feeding the Gulf Coast, deep clean Capstone Adaptive Learning's vans and paint stencils on the Born Learning Trail at Rev. McNealy Sr. Park.

"Our team members are always quick to roger up when it comes to giving back," said Todd Phillips, Mortgage Loans Operations Manager at Navy Federal Credit Union and UWWF Board Member. "United Way's Day of Caring is truly a highlight of our year because we get to serve as boots on the ground in our communities and help where it's needed most."

Gulf Winds Credit Union is sending a team to Habitat for Humanity to help with new home construction. More than 50 volunteers from Brasfield and Gorrie and Baptist Health will be working on several projects at First Tee. The Pensacola Fire Department will be painting the hallways at Bright Bridge Ministries. Central Credit Union of Florida will be decorating and painting at Chain Reaction.

Florida Blue and Navy Federal Credit Union will be at Goodwill Gulf Coast, unloading and sorting books for children.

Marcus Pointe Baptist Church has many |volunteers heading to multiple projects at Cordova Park Elementary School and the Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast.

Volunteers from Santa Rosa High School will be repairing fences for senior adults through Interfaith Ministries.

COMMUNITY BAGS Gulf Coast Kid's House has been selected by local 7135 N. Ninth Ave. Winn-Dixie store leadership as the benefiting nonprofit in the Community Bag Program for the month of March.

As part of this ongoing program, every month, the Winn-Dixie on Ninth Avenue will choose a different local nonprofit to benefit from the sale of the reusable Community Bag. Gulf Coast Kid's House was selected as the March beneficiary by the store's leadership. In March, Gulf Coast Kid's House will receive a $1 donation for every $2.99 reusable Community Bag purchased at this location.

"It's more important than ever to help reduce single-use plastic in the environment," said Stacey Kostevicki, executive director of Gulf Coast Kid's House. "Nonprofits at the local level, like us, need community support.

This program offers the perfect solution to multiple issues of the world today. We hope you'll support us in March by purchasing one or two Community Bags at our local WinnDixie on Ninth Avenue."

For more information about the Community Bag Program, please visit seg.bags4mycause.com. {in}

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850.435.7000 | LEVINLAW.COM | PENSACOLA, FL February 24, 2022

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Let’s get growing!

The Bodacious kitchenry shop is full of fun gifts for Spring!

Located upstairs at The Bodacious Shops.

407 S. Palafox St. BOD0666 INW 2_24 SoGo Half pg.indd 1

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2/17/22 4:01 PM

inweekly.net

Photo Courtesy of Pensacola Mardi Gras

We might be a little rusty after taking a year off, but it's officially Mardi Gras weekend here on the Gulf Coast, and we're ready to get back into it.

Just in case you need a little refresher, too, we thought we'd do a rundown of some basics, like seasonal terminology and parade details.

themes that tie into their names and include things like pirates and parrot heads.

A (REALLY) BRIEF HISTORY

KING CAKE A delicious frosted, bready cake with a tiny plastic baby figurine hidden inside (and not for no reason, mind you—that little guy represents the baby Jesus in some circles).

According to tradition, if you find the baby in your slice, you have to buy the next cake.

Mardi Gras is the culmination of the weeks-long Carnival season, and it's always celebrated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. (That's why the date changes every year.)

Depending on who you ask, it either started in 1699 in New Orleans or 1703 in Mobile.

Pensacola got into the spirit a little later and hosted our first organized Mardi Gras celebrations in 1900.

The season's signature colors were selected in 1872, and each one has a special meaning. Purple is justice, green is faith and gold is power.

WORD UP

Mastering Mardi Gras vocabulary isn't required to enjoy the party, but it is fun.

KREWE These are the organized groups that ride in the parades. Specific rules vary depending on the krewe, but most use a nomination process to join and require members to pay annual dues. In Pensacola, the krewes have February 24, 2022

THROWS Any items tossed from floats are considered "throws." We're talking beads, of course, but also cups, doubloons, toys and even snacks like MoonPies.

LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER The unofficial slogan of the season. Translated from French, it means, "Let the good times roll."

PARADE LINEUP

This weekend, there will once again be three major parades happening—two downtown and one on the beach. Pensacola Mardi Gras is also hosting a Fat Tuesday celebration at Seville Quarter.

KREWE OF LAFITTE ILLUMINATED MARDI GRAS PARADE Don't miss one of the most colorful parades of the season rolling downtown starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25.

For more information, visit kreweoflafitte.com.

PENSACOLA MARDI GRAS GRAND PARADE The biggest parade of the season happens

downtown, where dozens of floats will parade down Palafox and Government streets at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26. Visit pensacolamardigras.com for more information.

KREWE OF WRECKS MARDI GRAS PARADE The Krewe of Wrecks will host their annual Mardi Gras parade at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27, on Pensacola Beach. Visit pensacolabeachmardigras.com for more information.

KREWE OF COMA FAT TUESDAY CELEBRATION On the beach, Mardi Gras season finishes with the lighted hat contest and crowning of new Coma royalty. The krewe starts at the Sandshaker and follows the new Coma King and Queen for a pub crawl, ending up at Paradise Bar & Grill. This event is free and open to the public. Visit kreweofwrecks. com/events.html for more information.

FAT TUESDAY CELEBRATION Downtown Mardi Gras season closes with an all-day Fat Tuesday celebration Tuesday, March 1, starting at 11 a.m. at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Food trucks and crawfish boil begins at 2 p.m. The party starts at 5 p.m. Visit facebook. com/pensacolamardigras for more information.

DON'T FORGET

Just like any other large event, Mardi Gras can get overwhelming. Luckily, we have some tips to help you avoid getting too stressed out at the parades this weekend.

CHECK THE ROUTE. Knowing when and where the parade is rolling is key to pretty much everything else, including picking your parking and viewing spots. You can see the map for the downtown parades at pensacolamardigras.com/parade-route.

PARK SMART. Downtown Pensacola is notorious for being congested during large events, so make sure to plan ahead. You can look up where to park beforehand at cityofpensacola.com.

GET THERE EARLY. You're going to need a good spot if you want to catch any good throws. And don't forget folding chairs, coolers and snacks.

CHECK THE WEATHER. If you're planning to be out all day (which you probably will be), prepare for temperature changes. Bringing a raincoat or poncho is always a good idea, too.

WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES. This is not the weekend to break in your new heels or boots. Trust us. Come prepared for a lot of standing and walking.

MASK UP. We know some of you don't want to hear this, but the pandemic isn't over just because we're celebrating this weekend. If you want to party smart, a mask will go a long way, especially anytime you find yourself in a crowded area or bathroom line. {in} 13

a&e happenings

Inweekly + Hangout Music Fest 2022 Ticket Giveaway

Hangout Music Fest 2019 / Photo by Greg Riegler

For most Gulf Coast music fans, midMay is all about one thing and one thing only—Hangout Music Fest.

And thankfully, this May we're all getting to return to the beach with none other than Post Malone, Tame Impala and Halsey leading the way.

The 2022 Hangout lineup also includes Doja Cat, Fall Out Boy, Megan Thee Stallion, Jack Harlow, Zedd, Maren Morris, Phoebe Bridgers and about 50 more acts we're dying to check out.

As if that stacked lineup alone wasn't enough to make you Gulf Shores bound, Inweekly has once again partnered with Hangout Fest to give away a pair of general admission, three-day passes to one lucky reader.

All you have to do to enter is tell us

NONPROFITS & FUNDRAISERS

KEEP PENSACOLA BEAUTIFUL ANNUAL COMMUNI-TEE CUP MINI GOLF TOURNAMENT Help support Keep Pensacola Beautiful programming at the Fourth Annual Communi-Tee Cup Mini Golf Tournament Thursday, Feb. 24, from 5:30-9 p.m. located at Goofy Golf Amusement Center, 3924 W. Navy Blvd. Tickets start at $15 for kids and $30 for adults. Team tickets are $100 for four players.

For more information, visit keeppensacolabeautiful.org/communi-tee-cup.

CAT AND KITTEN ADOPTIONS Animal Allies will be at Pet Supermarket, 6857 N. Ninth Ave., in Pensacola on Saturday, Feb. 26, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and Everett Animal Welfare Group will be at PetSmart on Davis Highway from noon-4 p.m. If you can't adopt, find out about opportunities to donate, foster or volunteer.

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your name, email and who you'll bring with you to the beach if you win. Super easy, right? To enter, just go to form.jotform. com/220336587495162.

Contest Rules: Each email address entered will only be counted once. Winners must provide their own hotel and travel arrangements. The contest ends Thursday, March 31, and the winner will be announced, via email, Friday, April 1.

HANGOUT MUSIC FEST 2022

WHEN: Friday, May 20-Sunday, May 22 WHERE: Gulf Shores, Ala. DETAILS: hangoutmusicfest.com

All cats are up to date on shots, and adoption fee includes spay or neuter with microchip.

Visit aaflorida.org for more information.

WUWF HOSTS STORYCORPS FOR LOCAL STORYTELLING OPPORTUNITIES Sto-

ryCorps, the national nonprofit organization dedicated to recording, preserving and sharing the stories of people from all backgrounds and beliefs, comes to Pensacola Feb. 17-March 11 to record interviews, in-person and virtually, as part of its Mobile Tour.

Participants have the option of recording in-person or via StoryCorps' Virtual Recording Booth, a video-conferencing platform that can be accessed remotely using an internetconnected device. Participants can learn more about safety precautions for in-person recording at storycorps.org.

Reservations to record can be made by

calling StoryCorps' 24-hour toll-free reservation line at (800) 850-4406 or visiting storycorps.org or wuwf.org/storycorps.

CALL TO ARTISTS

ARTS & CRAFTS EXHIBITORS FOR JAZZFEST Jazz Pensacola is calling arts and

crafts exhibitors to submit applications for the 2022 Pensacola JazzFest, taking place 10 a.m.7 p.m. Saturday, April 2, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, April 3, at Seville Square.

Application form can be found at jazzpensacola.com.

Only original art and handmade crafts will be accepted. No commercial/mass-produced products will be accepted. Please read the complete contract, particularly concerning refunds.

All entries are $200 for a 10-by-10 canopy or smaller. All fees go to support Pensacola JazzFest, a free event for the community.

FOO FOO FEST APPLICATIONS Applications are open for vendors to join Pensacola's Foo Foo Festival taking place Nov. 3-14.

In 2022, the Pensacola Foo Foo Festival will once again fund top-scoring grant applicants, with the number of grants to be awarded contingent upon the number of submissions.

This year, the Foo Foo Festival will provide up to $400,000 in grant funding, and grant applicants can apply for up to $100,000 in grant funding.

All organizations, businesses and community partners are encouraged to submit their various events (occurring Nov. 3-14, 2022) for consideration to become a "Friend of Foo," receiving visibility as part of the regional marketing campaign and throughout the 12-day event.

To apply for this year's Foo Foo Festival, visit acepensacola.org. To apply for consideration as a "Friend of Foo," visit foofoofest.com.

FOO FOO FEST APPLICATION TIMELINE: •Friday, March 11—Foo Foo Fest Organization Letter of Intent Deadline •Friday, May 6—Foo Foo Fest Grant Application Deadline (Noon CT) •Tuesday, May 24—Public Grant Scoring and Official Announcements

ARTS & CULTURE

AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE SOCIETY RECEPTION On Thursday, Feb. 24,

from 6-8 p.m. the African American Heritage Society is hosting a reception for the exhibition "Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow" at the Studer Community Institute, located at 220 W. Garden St. The event is free to attend and will include light refreshments and a bar, plus music, art and the opportunity to learn more about the exhibition.

and lecture 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27. Learn more about Rossini's "The Barber of Seville," followed by performances from the score by Pensacola Opera Artists in Residence and a discussion about the various forms of humor in the visual arts. The program is free and open to the public. Visit pensacolaopera.com.

BERT KREISHER: THE BERTY BOY RELAPSE TOUR Stand-up comedian Bert

Kreisher will be playing at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox, for three shows 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 2 and 7, and 9:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3. Tickets are $39.75-$99.75 and can be purchased at pensacolasaenger.com.

PENSACOLA ARTS MARKET Enjoy shopping

for a variety of handcrafted wares at Pensacola Arts Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1401 W. Intendencia St. Enjoy art, espresso, vintage goods, baked treats, handcrafted unique gifts and more.

Admission is free. For more information, visit facebook.com/pensacolaartsmarket.

EASY GOING GALLERY ART MARKET

Every Sunday, Easy Going Gallery and Carter J Studios present a weekly art market Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Easy Going Gallery, located at 701 N. V St. Enjoy art, espresso, vintage goods, baked treats, handcrafted unique gifts and more. Vendors can participate for a $20 fee. For more information, contact easygoinggalleryart@gmail.com.

20/22 VISION First City Art Center's latest

exhibit features the new artists at 1060 Gallery. The exhibit is on view through March 18 and is located at 1060 N. Guillemard St. Visit firstcityart.org for more information.

MAPPING NORTHWEST FLORIDA EXHIBIT AT THE PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF HISTORY Visualized Landscapes: A Selection

of Northwest Florida Maps is now on view at Pensacola Museum of History.

The exhibit explores the shifting topography of Northwest Florida through a series of maps selected from the Trust Archive.

Visualized Landscapes: A Selection of Northwest Florida Maps is on view on the second floor of the Pensacola Museum of History until August.

For more information about the UWF Historic Trust or to purchase tickets, visit historicpensacola.org.

YOUTH ART FOCUS AT PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART The Pensacola Museum

2022 PENSACOLA FILM FESTIVAL The Pensacola Film Festival will feature Oscarnominated short and feature films starting Feb. 25 on Fridays and Saturdays. Showtimes are 1 and 4:30 p.m. PCA is located at 220 W. Garden St. Tickets are $10 cash only and include a beverage and snacks. Visit pensacolacinemaart. com for more information.

of Art, in partnership with the Escambia County School District, is proud to present the 68th Annual Youth Art Focus exhibition highlighting the best work from art students and educators from Escambia County Schools. On view through Feb. 27. Pensacola Museum of Art is located at 407 S. Jefferson St and open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday from noon-4 p.m. For more information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

GALLERY TALKS: THE BARBER OF SEVILLE Pensacola Opera takes over the

VISIONARY APONTE: ART AND BLACK FREEDOM Visionary Aponte: Art and Black

Pensacola Museum of Art for a performance

Freedom is from creator José Antonio Aponte, a inweekly.net

February 24, 2022

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a&e happenings free black carpenter, artist and former soldier who was also the leader of an ambitious antislavery conspiracy in Cuba in 1812. The exhibit is on view at Pensacola Museum of Art through March 27.

Visit pensacolamuseum.org for more information.

2000 MEN: BLACK POLITICIANS DURING RECONSTRUCTION A new exhibit at the Pensacola Museum of History shares the stories and histories of Black politicians during the Reconstruction period. The Pensacola Museum of History is located at 330 S. Jefferson St. For more information, visit historicpensacola.org.

FINDING 1821 Finding 1821 is part of the

UWF Historic Trust's Suddenly American exhibit. Using historic newspapers, maps and documents, it is possible to locate where businesses stood in the 1820s. From taverns to parasol shops, each site on the Finding 1821 trail reflects a local establishment that was near that location 200 years ago. Outside each business is a QR code that links to a corresponding advert from an early 1820s newspaper. Over a dozen sites have been identified so far. Take a stroll around town, visit local shops and explore the history of Pensacola through today's technology. Visit historicpensacola.org for more information.

BLACK CITIZENSHIP IN THE AGE OF JIM CROW "Black Citizenship in the Age of

Jim Crow," a traveling exhibition from the New York Historical Society Museum & Library with additions from the African American Heritage Society of Pensacola, is now on view the Studer Community Institute, located at 220 W. Garden St. It can be viewed Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

SCRIPTEASERS WITH PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE Scripteasers, Studio 400's

and Pensacola Little Theatre's Script Reading Club invites you to monthly script readings at PLT, 400 S. Jefferson St. Want to bring your scripts for the group to read and discuss? Contact Pensacola Little Theatre to get in queue.

The group reads prospective scripts for future seasons as well as new scripts that need a table read before the next edit. Not a playwright but love to read out loud? This is your easy, fun theatre night. Fascinated by the play selection process? Sit in for a listen and usually a lot of

laughs. Visit facebook.com/pensacolalittletheatre for more information and the latest dates.

OPEN MIC AT THE GORDON Show off

your talents on the second Thursday of every month at The Gordon's Open Mic showcase from 7-10 p.m. Admission is free. The Gordon is located at 306 N. DeVilliers St. Visit thegordon.org for more information.

OPEN MIC COMEDY AT BIG TOP BREWERY Try out some new jokes or enjoy some homegrown talent every Monday at 7 p.m. for Open Mic Comedy at Big Top Brewery, located at 21 W. Romano St. Everyone gets five minutes depending on the number of sign-ups. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m.

NEW CLASSES AT MIXON MAGIC PERFORMING ARTS Mixon Magic Performing

Arts (MMPA), a boutique performing arts studio located at 1010 N. 12th Ave., Ste. 238, will be offering a limited class schedule this fall. MMPA offers professional dance, fitness and "Mommy and Me" instruction for all ages and skill levels with weekly classes including, but not limited to, Creative Movement, Ballet/ Jazz Combo, Broadway, Tap, Showstoppers, Acting and Voice. Classes will be provided for children as young as 2 years old (with a parent or guardian) through adult.

MMPA is dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of all students and families and has implemented protocols based on guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Masks are required for entry into the building and studio. More information about Mixon Magic Performing Arts can be found at mixonmagic.com, by contacting hello@mixonmagic.com or emily@mixonmagic.com or by calling (850) 221-7438.

CRAFT CLASSES AT STUDIO SOUTH ON NINE MILE Learn a new craft or meet up with other makers at Studio South. Tuesday is Knit Night 4-7 p.m., and Sit & Stitch is Saturdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Both classes are free. For a full calendar of events, visit studiosouthon9mileroad.com. Studio South is located at 955 E. Nine Mile Road.

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS AT FIRST CITY ART First City Art Center offers a wide

range of classes and workshops for artists of all levels. Classes include glass blowing, ceramics, painting and drawing, kiln-forming, stained glass and more. For a complete list of classes and times, visit firstcityart.org.

FOOD + DRINKS

PARADE PARTY AT BODACIOUS Watch

the Krewe of Lafitte Parade from the Bodacious balcony while you enjoy food from a New Orleans-inspired menu. The party starts at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased at bodaciousshop.com.

MARDI GRAS PARTY AT ODD COLONY

Visit Odd Colony, located at 260 N. Palafox, for a slew of seasonal beer releases and Mardi Gras celebrating starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26. Visit facebook.com/oddcolony for more information.

MARDI GRAS AT BODACIOUS Join Boda-

cious to celebrate Mardi Gras with private balcony access right on the parade route from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26. There will also be a classic New Orleans-inspired menu. Event attendees will have access to the Palafox Balcony and the events kitchen at Bodacious, located at 407-D S. Palafox. Tickets are $65 per person. A cash bar will be available. Register online at bodaciosshops.com.

MONTHLY WINE TASTING IN AGAPI GARDEN Visit Agapi Garden, at 555 Scenic

Highway, from 5-7 p.m. to sample five wines for $10. For more information, call (850) 813-5683.

SUNDAY FUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE WELL The Well, located at 42 E. Garden St.,

has expanded its offerings with a Sunday Funday Brunch cocktail menu including items such as Spicy Paloma made with Mezcal, a cold brew cocktail with Irish whiskey, a cucumberinfused spritz and a Bloody Mary spiced with house-made hot sauce and garnished with fresh pickled vegetables. Price range is $9$12. Brunch hours are Sundays from noon-4 p.m. Other small plate offerings are available Thursday-Saturday from 4 p.m.-one hour before closing. For more information, visit facebook.com/thewellpensacola.

FIRST FRIDAY FINE WINES Visit The Nest General Store at 11 S. Palafox, Ste. C, on the first Friday of every month for a wine tasting from 6-8 p.m. Visit bluejaysbakery.com for more information.

BAYOU BUZZ COFFEE TASTING TOUR

Seville Savories Food Tour will host a coffee tour of downtown Pensacola Tuesdays-Fridays from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Tickets are available online at sevillesavoriesfoodtour.com.

SIP & SIDE: WINE PAIRING WITH GOURMET SLIDERS Visit Bodacious, 407-D S.

BURGERS AND BORDEAUX AT UNION PUBLIC HOUSE Every Tuesday night, enjoy

Palafox, for a Sip & Slide event featuring various wines and gourmet sliders Thursday, Feb. 24, at 6 p.m. Tickets are $65. Visit bodaciousshops.com for more information.

a specialty burger and a glass of Bordeaux for $18 at Union Public House, located at 309 S. Reus St. For more information, visit facebook. com/unionpensacola.

1920S MURDER MYSTERY AT GARDEN & GRAIN Join the interactive murder mystery

WEEKNIGHT HAPPY HOUR Every weeknight before 6 p.m. at The 5 Barrel, get $1 off all The 5 Barrel pints, $2 wine by the glass and half off hummus plates when you buy a pint of beer.

Visit the5barrel.com for more information.

dinner show where you solve the crime. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27, at Garden & Grain, located at 50 E. Garden St. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased at facebook.com/ perfectplainbrewingco.

TASTE OF SPAIN Join Agapi Bistro + Garden, 555 Scenic Highway, 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 28, for an evening of tapas and wine pairings. Tickets are $75. Make your reservations by calling (850) 225-5235.

TABLETOP TUESDAYS AT THE 5 BARREL Join The 5 Barrel for a special Tabletop Tuesday event at 6 p.m. every Tuesday in March.

A wide variety of games ranging from the classic chess to the crowd favorite Catan will be available. Players are welcome to bring their own games.

Adoption • Paternity • Dependency/DCF Hearings Prenuptial Agreements • Postnuptial Agreements Divorce • Child Custody and Timesharing Child Support • Child Support Modifications Alimony • Collaborative Divorce • Divorce Mediation • Pre-Suit Family Law Mediation

127 Palafox Place Suite 100 (850)466-3115 autumnbeckblackledge.com 616 1

Tired of suffering from droopy eyelids? Uplift your eyelids with the once daily eye drop, Upneeq. Call now to schedule your appointment with the eye care specialists at Terrezza Optical: 850-434-2060 inweekly.net

a&e happenings ARAGON WINE TASTINGS Wine tastings at Aragon Wine Market are back every Thursday from 5-7 p.m. in store at 27 S. Ninth Ave. For more information, visit aragonwinemarket.com.

THURSDAY TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE 5 BARREL Gather a group for a weekly Thurs-

day Trivia Night Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. at The 5 Barrel. There will be prizes for every round and select drafts for $3. Find out more at facebook.com/the5barrel.

THURSDAY BIERGARTEN TRIVIA NIGHT Gary's Brewery Trivia Night is back by popular demand. Thursdays from 7-9 p.m., test your trivia skills with a glass of beer or wine. Arrive early to grab a spot. Gary's Brewery is located at 208 Newman Ave. For more information, visit facebook.com/garysbrew.

PALAFOX MARKET Palafox Market is back at its regular location in MLK Jr. Plaza. In a carefully planned, phased reopening, Palafox Market has launched with about half its regular vendors, showcasing food, farm produce and products geared toward safety and sanitation such as handmade soaps and face masks. For more information, visit facebook.com/downtownpensacola.

EVER'MARKET AT NINE MILE ROAD Visit

Ever'Man at 1000 E. Nine Mile Road on the fourth Saturday of each month for the Ever'Market with food, music, giveaways, activities and more. Visit everman.org for more information.

200 SOUTH SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Every first Saturday of the month, the businesses at 200 South will host Small Business Saturday to show support for local businesses. Bring a receipt from a purchase from any other downtown business and receive 10% off your bill at Graffiti Pizza, World of Beer, Taco Agave and Blend Lounge.

PENSACOLA POSITIVITY'S SUNDAY MARKETS Sunday Markets on Palafox Street

happen each Sunday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in MLK Plaza on Palafox. Local makers, growers and creators gather each under the oak trees to sell their goods to the community. Interested vendors can request an application by emailing requeaskmikellah@gmail.com. For more information, visit facebook.com/palafoxmarkets.

SATURDAYS AT THE MARKET OUTDOOR VENDOR EVENT Located at 5300

Berryhill Road, the outdoor market features artisans and crafters alike from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Social distancing guidelines will be in effect. For more information, email saturdaysatthemarket@gmail.com.

PENSACOLA POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

Check out fresh and organic produce, milk, eggs, meat, fresh-baked bread, mushrooms, lumber, grits, cornmeal, pies and plants Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at East Hill Market, located at 1216 N. Ninth Ave. For a list of vendors, visit facebook.com/easthillmarket.

UPTOWN PENSACOLA MARKET Check

out local vendors of art, produce and other local treasures every Saturday at 7201 N. Ninth February 24, 2022

Ave. from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/uptownmarketpensacola.

TWILIGHT THREE-COURSE SPECIAL The

District's Twilight Three-Course special is back Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4:30-6 p.m. Guests enjoy three courses for $35 per person. Diners must be seated by 6 p.m. for offer to be valid. To make a reservation, call (850) 332-5224, or go to districtstreaks.com.

The District is located at 123 E. Government St.

LIVE MUSIC

Healthy Hearts, HAPPY LIVES

BANDS ON THE BEACH 2022 LINEUP

Pensacola Beach's popular outdoor summer concert series Bands on the Beach is back starting April 5. Shows are 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at the Gulfside Pavilion.

BANDS ON THE BEACH 2022 SCHEDULE: April: •April 5—Reunion Band •April 12—Crosstown •April 19—Not Quite Fab •April 26—Whitesands Panhandle Band May: •May 3—The Astronauts •May 10—True Blue Band •May 17—Cristi Dees BAD JUJU •May 24—Bay Bridge Band •May 31—On the Rox June: •June 7—12Eleven •June 14—Touch of Gray •June 21—Elvis Remembered •June 28—Mass Kunfuzion July: •July 5— Johnny Earthquake & the Moondogs •July 12—Horseshoe Kitty •July 19— John Hart and The Prince Brothers •July 26—Hi Tide Band August: •Aug. 2—Wester •Aug. 9— Tyler Mac •Aug. 16—Sandy Roots •Aug. 23—Vinyl Revival •Aug. 30—Class X September: •Sept. 6—Jordan Chase •Sept. 13—Mr. Big & the Rhythm Sisters •Sept. 20—Stormfolk •Sept. 27—Karli Ryan October: •Oct. 4—Southern Breeze •Oct. 11—String Farm •Oct. 18—Dr. Breeze •Oct. 25—Modern Eldorados

Did you know February is American Heart Month?

Extra Virgin Olive Oil retains all the nutrients and antioxidants of the olive fruit, which are beneficial to cardiovascular health. Consuming 2-4 tablespoons a day can help prevent heart disease and lower cholesterol. Find the widest selection of high-quality EVOO at Bodacious!

S H O P IN - S TO R E O R O N L I N E 4 0 7 S O U T H PA L A FOX S T R EE T B O DACI O U S S H O P S .CO M

CELTIC WOMAN: POSTCARDS FROM IRELAND Celtic Woman will feature four

soloists—Tara McNeill on fiddle and Irish harp alongside the voices of Mairéad Carlin, Éabha McMahon and Megan Walsh—at the Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24. Tickets start at $42 and can be purchased at pensacolasaenger.com.

ABBA MANIA ABBA Mania, a tribute to

the Swedish pop group Abba, will perform at Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25. Tickets are $49.75-$54.75 and can be purchased at pensacolasaenger.com.

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a&e happenings NICOLE DEAN GOING AWAY SHOW

Before she moves to Iowa, Nicole Dean will be playing live at Alga Beer Co., located at 2435 N. 12th Ave., on Saturday, Feb. 26, starting at 6 p.m.

REVEREND HORTON HEAT Reverend Horton Heat with special guests Nik Flagstar and his Dirty Mangy Dogs at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox, 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26. Tickets are $25. Get yours at vinylmusichall.com.

UWF FACULTY RECITAL, "IF I CAN NOT FLY" The University of West Florida Dr. Grier

Williams School of Music presents Sheila Dunn and Blake Riley in "If I Can Not Fly," a faculty recital celebrating Dunn's promotion to full professor, on Monday, Feb. 28, at 7:30 p.m. The performance will be held in the Rolfs Music Hall at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Bldg. 82, on the Pensacola campus, located at 11000 University Parkway.

The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. For more information or to reserve tickets, please contact the CFPA Box Office at (850) 857-6285 or online at uwf.edu/tickets.

BADFISH: TRIBUTE TO SUBLIME Badfish

will be making a Pensacola stop during their 20th Anniversary Tour at 8 p.m. Friday, March 4, at Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at vinylmusichall.com.

RUSSIAN SPECTACULAR Pensacola Sym-

phony Orchestra's annual celebration of Russian

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composers returns with Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 1, featuring Sara Davis Buechner, and Rachmaninoff's Second Symphony, a showcase of the composer's genius in melodic invention and rich orchestration. The concert is 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 5. Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased at pensacolasymphony.com.

MONDAY NIGHT BLUES AT SEVILLE QUARTER Blues Society of Northwest Florida and Seville Quarter present Monday Night Blues, the longest running weekly Blues Jam in Florida, starting at 7 p.m. with an opening and followed by the Blues Jam at 9 p.m. Seville Quarter is located at 130 E. Government St. For more information, visit sevillequarter.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT RED FISH BLUE FISH PENSACOLA BEACH Head to Red Fish Blue Fish

for live performances from local bands all day on Fridays and Saturdays. For musician lineups, visit facebook.com/redfishbluefishpensacolabeach.

JOE OCCHIPINTI JAZZABOUTS Catch Joe Occhipinti and guests at Alice's Restaurant & Wine Bar, 1504 W. Intendencia St., Wednesdays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and at Calvert's Restaurant & Bar, 670 Scenic Highway, Sundays from noon-3 p.m.

SAXOPHONIST JIM ANDREWS AT ALICE'S RESTAURANT Saxophonist Jim An-

drews will be performing at Alice's Restaurant, located at 1504 W. Intendencia St., on the first Friday of every month from 6-9:30 p.m.

JAZZ BY THE BOOK Join Joe Occhipinti and the Jazzabouts at the Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St., every Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. for classic jazz favorites.

LIVE MUSIC AT HUB STACEY'S Sit back with good food and live music at Hub Stacey's, located at 312 E. Government St. For a full calendar of bands, check hubstaceys.com.

RAY COLEY AT CAZADORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT Ray Coley performs oldies

MONDAY NIGHT BLUES AT SEVILLE QUARTER Seville Quarter and the Blues Soci-

mix with jazz and blues every weekend with keyboard, horn and flute. Fridays and Saturdays from 6-9 p.m. and a jazz set on Sundays from 12-3 p.m. on the patio at Cazadores Mexican restaurant, located at 8183 W. Fairfield Dr. Weather permitting.

ety of Northwest Florida bring the "Blues" back to the Seville Quarter Entertainment District, located at 130 E. Government St. every Monday night in End O' the Alley starting at 7 p.m. For more information, visit sevillequarter.com.

CURT BOL JAZZ QUARTET Visit Five Sis-

TUESDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT SEVILLE QUARTER Enjoy smooth jazz with Melodious

OPEN JAM AT ARTEL GALLERY Artel

FITNESS + RECREATION

ters Blues Café, located at 421 W. Belmont St., Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and listen to Curt Bol Jazz Quartet. Visit curtbolband.com for more information.

Gallery is open from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays for open jam with Pensacola Folk Music Society. Feel free to visit and listen to music. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox.

KARAOKE AT MUGS AND JUGS Sing your heart out Sundays at Mugs & Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway, or just enjoy drinks friends with $4 Smirnoff and $6.50 domestic pitcher drink deals from 7 p.m.-3 a.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/mugsjugs.

Allen and The Funk Heads every Tuesday night at Lili Marlene's in Seville Quarter, located at 130 E. Government St. Show starts at 6:30 p.m.

Visit sevillequarter.com for more information.

PENSACOLA ICE FLYERS GAMES The Pensacola Ice Flyers home games are at Pensacola Bay Center, located at 201 E. Gregory St. Tickets start at $15. Purchase yours at pensacolabaycenter.com.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES: •5:05 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27 NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS – FREE FOOTBALL EVENT FOR MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL Join NFL players James Smith-Williams, Justin Simmons, Jeremiah Sirles, Darius Jackson, Johnathan Abram, Trent Scott and Malik Reed

inweekly.net

a&e happenings for a free football clinic/camp with local coaches being held Friday evening and Saturday morning, Feb. 25 and 26, at Olive Baptist Church, 1836 E. Olive Road. For more details on the event, please visit olivebaptist.org/missions.

CHESS CLUB Learn how to play one of the

oldest games in the world with West Florida Public Libraries. Whether you are a beginner or a master chess player, this is a chance to learn new skills, practice your moves and improve your game in a friendly environment. The library will provide all the chessboards and pieces.

UPCOMING DATES: •Saturday, Feb. 26, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.— Genealogy Library, 5740 N. Ninth Ave. •Saturday, Feb. 26, 1-3:30 p.m.—Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway.

SUN BELT BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP The Men's and Women's Sunbelt Bas-

ketball Championship will be at Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St., March 2-7. Firstround games will start at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 2, and championship games are scheduled to start 1 p.m. Monday, March 7.

Tickets are $30 and up. Visit pensacolabaycenter.com for more information.

F3 NATION FREE WORKOUTS FOR MEN F3, a national network of free, peer-led

workouts for all men, has expanded its outdoor workouts to Pensacola. The three Fs stand for Fitness, Fellowship and Faith. Classes are free of charge to all men 18 and older or 16 with an adult guardian. Each class ends with a circle of trust. Class times are 7-8 a.m. Saturdays and 5:30-6:15 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Maritime Park, located at 351 W. Cedar St. Visit f3pensacola.com.

OVER 50 DANCE CLUB Take part in the Over 50 Dance Club at Sanders Beach Resource Center, located at 913 S. I St., Tuesdays from 6:30-9 p.m. The dress code is dressy; cover is $5-$10. This club is tobacco- and alcohol-free.

For more information, call (850) 623-5013.

PENSACOLA PEGGERS CRIBBAGE CLUB LOOKING FOR MEMBERS Pensacola Peg-

gers Cribbage Club 396, the local Grass Roots Club affiliated with American Congress of Cribbage, is seeking new cribbage players for the group. The club meets weekly on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Sonny's BBQ, located at 6702 N. Ninth Ave., to play six games of cribbage.

WEEKLY FRIDAY DANCE Get moving every

Friday night with a dance sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Enjoy food from 6-7 p.m.

Dancing is from 7-10 p.m. A variety of bands and music provide the tunes. Cost of admission is $6.

Dances are located at 105 Kenmore Ave. in Pensacola. For more information, call (850) 476-5696.

PENSACOLA PARKRUN The Pensacola Rec Plex North parkrun is 7:30 a.m. Saturdays.

The weekly timed 5K run or walk takes place at the University of West Florida and is open to everyone, regardless of fitness level. For more information, visit facebook.com/rpnparkrun or email recplexnorth@parkrun.com.

February 24, 2022

WFPL MOLINO TRACK CHALLENGE Put on your walking shoes and join the walking challenge at the Molino library. Just visit Molino's track, turn on your favorite fitness tracker app to log your progress, dial up your tunes or an audiobook and start walking. When you finish, come into the library and log your progress with staff on our track challenge board. The top walker in this program will win The Coldest Water Bottle. The Molino Branch Library is located at 6450-A Highway 95A. For more information, visit mywfpl.com.

RELEASE & RENEW AT FITNESS IMPACT TRAINING At 8:15 a.m. on Mondays,

Wednesdays and Fridays, release into a yin yoga flow centered around low-stress training for high-stress individuals. The focus will be on the basics of breath and openness in the shoulders, hips and spine. For more info, go to mindandmetta.online. Cost is $12 per class, and the location is 375 N. Ninth Ave., Ste. B. Limited space available. Ask about membership pricing.

GULF COAST BREWERY RUN Thursdays

at 6 p.m., join Pensacola Runners Association for a 5K fun run. Enjoy a free beer after the run and complimentary games such as cornhole, ping pong and more. Gulf Coast Brewery is located at 500 E. Heinberg St. For more information, visit facebook.com/gulfcoastbrewery.

BEER GARDEN YOGA Join Coastal County Brewing Company Saturdays at 9 a.m. for the new Yoga in the Garden Series. Classes will be led by Tara Taylor, a highly experienced instructor from Breathe Pensacola. All skill levels are welcome. Cost is $10 and includes a pint of beer after the class. Coastal County Brewing Company is located at 3041 E. Olive Road. For more information, visit facebook.com/coastalcounty.

SOUL FLOW YOGA AT BEAUTIFUL YOU STUDIO Every Tuesday at 7 a.m., flow and vibe

with some soulful music to start the day. This hour-long class will center around engaging the core through smooth yet strong yoga sequences. Cost is $10 per class or $99 for an unlimited 30-day pass. Located at 513 W. Intendencia St. For more info, go to mindandmetta.online.

YOGA CLASSES AT EVER'MAN Beginner Yoga with John is 10 a.m. Thursdays, 4:30 p.m.

Tuesdays and 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays. Funky Yoga Flow is 6 p.m. Tuesdays. And Vinyasa Yoga Flow is 6 p.m. Thursdays. All classes at Ever'man, 327 W. Garden St. For a full calendar of events, visit everman.org.

OCEAN HOUR BEACH CLEAN-UPS Ocean

Hour has picked up its weekly beach cleanups in the Pensacola area Saturdays at 8:45 a.m. On Saturday, Aug. 28, volunteers will be at Philip A. Payne Bridge. Supplies will be provided, but volunteers are welcome to bring their own. For locations, visit oceanhourfl.com.

KID-FRIENDLY

PARENT'S NIGHT OUT AT PMA Parents get the night off while kids can explore their creative side Saturday, Feb. 26, from 5:30-8 p.m. Parents can drop off their children ages 7-12 for an evening in the Pensacola Museum 19

a&e happenings of Art studio. Students will experiment with various media to create a special work of art and watch an age-appropriate film. Please pack a dinner. Masks are recommended throughout the evening. $20 per student. Register in advance at pensacolamuseum.org.

CELEBRATE READ ACROSS AMERICA WITH THE NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM'S The National Naval Avia-

tion Museum and the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation will host an in-person and online Story Time event on Wednesday, March 2, to celebrate Read Across America Day and encourage reading for families and children.

The Story Time will launch at 10 a.m. in the Museum's Emil Buehler Naval Aviation Library and will live stream on the Museum's Facebook page at facebook.com/navalaviationmuseum.

PENSACOLA MESS HALL'S NEW EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTING ESTUARIES The

Pensacola MESS Hall's newly-installed estuary exhibition highlights the science and social issues of our coastal community. The exhibition incorporates new hands-on activities that encourage active, prolonged engagement, prompting learners to ask their own questions and make their own discoveries. The exhibition features a new augmented reality sandbox that users shape to create topographic maps and explore how water flows over a landscape.

This exhibition incorporates math, engineering and science in unique activities, from

020 2

building a river sensor to modifying the path of flowing water to discovering how water shapes the land. Additionally, the exhibition connects to other fields, like economics and ethics, highlighting different aspects of the UN Sustainability Goals.

In addition to the exhibition, learners can dive deeper into different topics related to our natural environment during monthly Curiosity Days. These special programs are held one Saturday a month from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. and are included with admission. Facilitated activities aligned with the theme engage learners in further discovery. Additionally, each month will include special guest scientists and workshops. Registration for workshops is recommended, and activities are suitable for ages 6 to adult. For more information, visit pensacolamesshall.org.

•March 5 – Water Works •April 9 – Fossils •May 14 – Plant Power

NEIGHBORHOOD CHILDREN'S THEATRE

Neighborhood Children's Theatre offers engaging electives, education, and entertainment for children and children at heart. Registration is now open for our two flagship theatre programs: Drama Clubhouse (ages 5-11) and Neighborhood Players (ages 12-18). These weekly classes are designed to be an all-encompassing theatre education; no previous experience is necessary. More classes and events will be added in the coming months. Register

and learn more about Neighborhood Children's Theatre at myneighborhoodtheatre.com.

of every month is STEAM story time. Baby story time is Tuesdays from 10:30-11 a.m.

CRAFTERNOONS Crafternoons will be held

FAMILY STORY TIME AT PENSACOLA LIBRARY Family story time has returned to

the first Thursday of each month from 5:306:30 p.m. at the Pensacola Library, located at 239 N. Spring St. The next date is Thursday, Feb. 3, and the craft is unicorn dreamcatchers.

Each month will be an experiment with a new medium, explore a new theme, learn a new hobby or construct on old favorite. Whether it's painting, crocheting, constructing faux stained glass or fashioning unicorn dream catchers, all ages are welcome. All materials provided by the library. For more information, visit mywfpl.com.

ANIMAL CROSSING: NEW HORIZONS CLUB Need resources? Want to play your

favorite game with community friends? Bring your Nintendo Switch and swing by the Pensacola Library the second Thursday of the month from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Library staff will meet you on our Library Island. A limited number of Switches will be available for use for those who do not have one of their own or who might want to experience something new.

FAMILY STORY TIME AT TRYON LIBRARY Family story time is Thursdays from

10:30-11 a.m. at the Tryon Library, located at 1200 Langley Ave. This program is suggested for children ages 2-5 years and their caregivers but open to everyone. The third Thursday

Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join in for exciting stories, songs and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2-5 years and their caregivers but open to everyone. The second Wednesday of the month is STEAM story time. Baby story time is Mondays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

FAMILY STORY TIME AT MOLINO LIBRARY Family story time has returned to

Molino Library, located at 6450-A Highway 95A, Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30 a.m. with engaging stories, songs and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2-5 years and their caregivers but open to everyone. The fourth Wednesday of the month is STEAM story time.

FAMILY STORY TIME AT SOUTHWEST LIBRARY Enjoy family story time at South-

west Library with exciting stories, songs, and movement Tuesdays 10:30-11:30 a.m., located at 12248 Gulf Beach Highway. This program is suggested for children ages 2-5 years and their caregivers but is open to everyone. The third Tuesday of every month is STEAM story time.

for more listings visit inweekly.net

inweekly.net

A CRAFTY SOUTHERN PUB WHERE IT ALL COMES TOGETHER MON-THUR 4-9 AND FRI-SAT 11-10 TUESDAY NIGHT: BURGERS AND BORDEAUX

UNIONPENSACOLA.COM

309 SOUTH REUS ST. | 850.607.6320

February 24, 2022

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free will astrology WEEK OF FEBRUARY 24 ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19): "A dead thing can go with the stream, but only a living thing can go against it," wrote author G. K. Chesterton. Amen to that! Please regard his observation as the first part of your horoscope. Here's the second part: It's sometimes the right approach to move in harmony with the flow, to allow the momentum of elemental forces to carry you along. But now is not one of those times. I suggest you experiment with journeys against the flow. Go in quest of what the followers of easy options will never experience. Do it humbly, of course, and with your curiosity fully deployed.

By Rob Brezsny

Hopefully, they will inspire your own spacious musings. First, here's artist M. C. Escher— "Wonder is the salt of the earth." Next, author Salman Rushdie—"What's real and what's true aren't necessarily the same." Here's poet Allen Ginsberg: "When you notice something clearly and see it vividly, it then becomes sacred." A proverb from the Omaha people—"Ask questions from your heart, and you will be answered from the heart." G. K. Chesterton—"Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair." Finally, playwright Tony Kushner: "I'm not religious, but I like God, and he likes me."

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22): "Out of love, you

never allowed to step on people to get ahead," said TV personality and author Star Jones, "but you can step over them if they're in your way." I suspect the coming months will be a time when you really should step over people who are in your way. There's no need to be mad at them, criticize them or gossip about them. That would sap your energy to follow your increasingly clear dreams. Your main task is to free yourself from influences that obstruct your ability to be the Royal Sovereign of Your Own Destiny.

can speak with straight fury," wrote author Eudora Welty. Here's how I interpret that in light of the current chapter of your life story: You have an opportunity to recalibrate some misaligned energy. You have the necessary insight to fix an imbalance or dissolve an illusion or correct a flow that has gone off-course. And by far the best way to do that is by wielding the power of love. It will need to be expressed with vehemence and intense clarity, however.

It will require you to be both compassionate and firm. Your homework—Figure out how to express transformative truths with kindness.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20): Gemini-born

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): Virgo politi-

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20): "You're

Gina Rowlands is retired now, but she had an award-winning six-decade career as an actor.

At age 20, she decided what she wanted to do with her life, and her parents offered her their blessings. She testified, "I went home and I told my mom that I wanted to quit college and be an actress, and she said, 'Huh, that sounds fascinating. It's wonderful!' And I told my father, and he literally said, 'I don't care if you want to be an elephant trainer if it makes you happy.'" Dear Gemini, in the coming months, I would love for you to receive similar encouragement for your budding ideas and plans.

What can you do to ensure you're surrounded by influences like Rowlands' parents? I hope you embark on a long-term project to get all the support you need.

cal science professor Tatah Mentan was born and raised in the African country of Cameroon, which has never fully recovered from its grueling colonization by Germany, France and England. The democratic tradition there is tenuous. When Mentan first taught at a university in the Cameroonian capital, authorities found his ideas too controversial. For the next 16 years, he attempted to be true to himself while avoiding governmental censorship, but the strain proved too stressful. Fearing for his safety, he fled to the U.S. I'm turning to him for advice that will serve you well in the coming weeks. He tells us, "Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart."

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22): As you enter

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): "Anything you

an astrological phase when vast, expansive ruminations will be fun and healthy for you, I will offer you some vast, expansive thoughts.

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do from the heart enriches you, but sometimes not till years later," wrote author Mignon McLaughlin. I'm pleased to inform you, Libra,

that you will soon receive your rewards for generous actions you accomplished in the past. On behalf of the cosmic rhythms, I apologize for how long it has taken. But at least it's finally here. Don't underestimate how big this is. And don't allow sadness about your earlier deprivation to inhibit your enthusiastic embrace of compensation.

On behalf of the cosmic rhythms, I apologize for how long it has taken. But at least it's finally here.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): No matter how reasonable and analytical you are, Scorpio, you possess a robust attraction to magic. You yearn for the refreshing invigoration of non-rational mysteries. You nurture urges to be delighted by outbreaks of the raw, primal lust for life. According to my astrological assessment, you are especially inclined to want and need these feelings in the next few weeks. And that's good and healthy and holy!

At the same time, don't abandon your powers of discernment. Keep them running in the background as you enjoy your rejuvenating communions with the enigmatic pleasures of the Great Unknown.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21): Author Diane Ackerman tells us, "In the absence of touching and being touched, people of all ages can sicken and grow touch starved. Touch seems to be as essential as sunlight." This is always important to remember, but it will be extra crucial for you to keep in mind during the coming weeks. I advise you to be ingenious and humble and frank as you collect as much physical contact as you can. Be polite and respectful, of course. Never force yourself on anyone. Always seek permission. With those as your guidelines, be greedy for hugs and cuddling and caresses.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19): "Edu-

cation, fundamentally, is the increase of the percentage of the conscious in relation to the

unconscious." Author and educator Sylvia Ashton-Warner said that, and now I'm telling you—just in time for one of the most lesson-rich times of a year that will be full of rich lessons.

In the next nine months, dear Capricorn, the proportion of your consciousness in relation to your unconsciousness should markedly increase.

And the coming weeks will be a favorable phase to upgrade your educational ambitions.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18): You're entering a phase of your cycle when your ability to boost your finances will be stronger than usual.

You'll be more likely to attract good luck with money and more apt to discover useful tips on how to generate greater abundance. To inspire your efforts, I offer you this observation by author Katharine Butler Hathaway: "To me, money is alive. It is almost human. If you treat it with real sympathy and kindness and consideration, it will be a good servant and work hard for you and stay with you and take care of you."

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20): Author Deb

Caletti made the following observation: "You have ordinary moments and ordinary moments and more ordinary moments, and then, suddenly, there is something monumental right there. You have past and future colliding in the present, your own personal Big Bang, and nothing will ever be the same." In my vision of your destiny in 2022, Pisces, there could be several of these personal Big Bangs, and one of them seems to be imminent. To prepare—that is, to ensure that the changes are primarily uplifting and enjoyable—I suggest you chant the following mantra at least five times every day—"I love and expect good changes."

THIS WEEK'S HOMEWORK: Give yourself a blessing. Say why you're wonderful and name a marvelous event that's ahead for you. Newsletter.

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news of the weird THE NEIGHBORS In the Bolivian city of El Alto, David Choque has alarmed his neighbors with his new decorating scheme, Reuters reported. Choque, a miner, hired an artist to create sculptures of long-horned skeletal devils from cement and wood and mount them on the outside of his home. Choque told Reuters that the sculptures hearken to life in Bolivian mines centuries ago, when indigenous men were forced into digging for silver. Colonial masters would use devil images to scare the men into working. But some neighbors fear that his decor signals satanic worship. Maria Laurel said she has heard about naked rituals in Choque's house: "The truth is, it frightens me." Choque pooh-poohs this idea: "Closedminded people will think it's something supernatural, but people need to open their minds and see it as a tourist attraction, something that can improve the area."

MORE THAN THEY BARGAINED FOR Riders in the Bianchi Rock Cobbler, a California bike race known to be "stupidly hard," expected the usual sore muscles after the 80-mile off-roader on Feb. 12. They did not expect, however, neck and back injuries suffered after being attacked by a bull during the race. Tony Inderbitzin told KMPH-TV that he did see the animal, but he usually bikes right by cows with no problem: "As I got 10 to 15 yards from him, he turned ... squared up, and I had maybe a second to brace myself or do anything. It's a case of a mistaken identity from a cow to a bull." The bull, after dislodging him from his bike, flipped Inderbitzin up in the air. Two other riders were also attacked but were able to finish the race and celebrate with beers.

INEXPLICABLE When police officers in Orem, Utah, pulled over Victor Chavez-Zuniga, 27, for a broken headlight on Feb. 9, they discovered that he had several outstanding warrants, The Smoking Gun reported. As a result, they searched him and found something "extra" in his wallet: a severed finger in a cloth wrap, which had "what appeared to be pus and blood on it" and "was beginning to turn green and the fingernail appeared to be decayed." Well, gross. Officer Bryce Mondragon also noticed a "foul smell." Unfortunately, the mystery lives on: The court filing does not say who the finger belonged to or why Chavez-Zuniga had it, but he was held on a charge of desecration of a dead human body, among other charges.

•On Feb. 10, as a 38-year-old man walked with a friend and his two children in Frauenfeld, Switzerland, he felt an unexplained sharp pain in his lower body. Later, at the emergency room, doctors discovered he had been shot, Oddity Central reported. But the man and his companions heard no gunshot and saw no one with a firearm: "An accident, a crime, a shot fired from afar—we're not ruling anything out at the moment," said Matthias Graf, a police spokesman. Investigators are hoping the public

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

can help; for now, they believe an air gun or a small-caliber weapon was used from a great distance, as a larger bullet would have caused more damage. The man is recovering.

RUDE In January 2021, Winchester Hagans of Auburn, Alabama, lost his fiancee, Hannah Ford, in a car crash. "She was the love of my life," Hagans told WTVM-TV on Feb. 7. After her death, Hagans built a flower box for her grave, where he planted her favorite flowers (she was not a fan of cut flowers) and placed photos of the two of them. He checked with the city that it was OK to place the planter by her grave; they told him as long as the family didn't object, it was fine. In January, while visiting Ford's grave, Hagans was approached by a police officer, who asked him to get out of his car and said there was a warrant for his arrest. The charge was littering. "I said, 'No, that's impossible, there's no way,'" Hagans said.

Ford's father, Tom Ford, had signed the arrest warrant, but had never contacted Hagans personally about the planter box.

UNRULY PASSENGER Perhaps Michael Brandon Demarre, 32, has never heard of social media. On Feb. 12, Demarre was charged in federal court in Oregon for interfering with a flight crew in an incident that happened the day before on a Delta flight between Salt Lake City and Portland, Oregon. During that trip, KSL-TV reported, Demarre allegedly "removed the plastic covering of the emergency exit handle and pulled on the handle with his full body weight," witnesses said.

Demarre was moved to the back of the plane and restrained until the flight landed and police took him into custody. As he explained his actions, Demarre said he grabbed the handle "so other passengers would video him, thereby giving him the opportunity to share his thoughts on COVID-19 vaccines." He will remain in custody until his next court hearing.

FIRST, DO NO HARM Dr. Onyekachi Nwabuko, an ER doctor at UF Health Leesburg in Florida, was charged on Feb. 16 with three counts of battery after he allegedly struck a patient repeatedly, the Naples Daily News reported. Nwabuko reportedly was trying to confirm his suspicions that the patient was faking a medical condition. As such, he grabbed her hand and struck her in the face with it multiple times, leading to her IV line being ripped out and blood covering her face and arm. She was also bruised around her eye. One witness said Nwabuko was laughing and mocking the patient; finally, nurses intervened and stopped the doctor. In a curious statement, UF Health identified Nwabuko as "not employed by UF Health," but said they could not provide any more information. {in}

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