Greater Pensacola Parents December 2017 by KeepSharing

Make family meals more than a holiday tradition.

Reports show children who eat at least five times a week with their family are at lower risk of developing poor eating habits, weight problems or alcohol and substance dependencies, and tend to perform better in school than their friends who frequently eat alone or away from home.

For more health information, follow us on Twitter @HealthyEscambia

December2017

Volume 2 Number 9

Columns

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Living With Children John Rosemond

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates, P.A.

Holiday Safety Tips The holidays are here, and I wish everyone all the joy and fun they can bring. Here are a few reminders to help keep our kids safe and healthy so they can enjoy the season!

Toys

Choking hazards: Most importantly, read the label on the toy and follow the recommended age guidelines. Those age recommendations are often based on the toy’s safety for the intended age. Be cautious about used toys. They may have broken parts or pieces that may render the toy unsafe. A general guideline to use: if an object will fit into a cardboard toilet paper roll, it’s small enough to be a potential choking hazard. Cords and strings: Young children and babies should not be given toys that have cords or strings. They can become tangled around the baby’s or toddler’s neck.

Swallowed objects

Coins: Many coins will pass through the stomach and intestine and be passed in the stool within a couple of days. However, coins can sometimes become lodged in the throat or esophagus. It is generally best to call your

child’s doctor if they swallow a coin. They can review the signs or symptoms of problems for which you should be looking, and discuss how to proceed. Sometimes it’s necessary to locate a coin with an x-ray to see if it’s likely to get lodged or pass through. Batteries: Unfortunately, batteries are a common part of many children’s toys nowadays. A swallowed battery is potentially dangerous due to the caustic chemicals inside it, so medical evaluation is recommended if a child or baby swallows a battery. Many times, this results in a trip to the hospital Emergency Department, as a battery may need to be removed from the gastrointestinal tract. Magnets: These can be dangerous if swallowed, particularly if it’s more than one. The two magnets can attach to each other from different places in the stomach or intestine, possibly causing obstructions and/or impairing blood flow to the affected tissue. Swallowed magnets should be evaluated urgently by your child’s doctor or in an Emergency Department.

Scooters / skates / skateboards

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more children age 5 to 14 visit the emergency rooms for bicycle / scooter / skateboard injuries than any sport. Helmets are

the single most effective piece of safety equipment for riders, and any child riding anything with wheels should be wearing a well-fitting helmet. In my opinion, the next most important item for kids riding skates, skateboards, and scooters are wrist guards. I can’t begin to count the number of broken wrists I have seen over the years from kids falling off skateboards and scooters! And lastly, even though it’s the holiday season and most people expect a little indulgence, please don’t throw healthy eating habits out the window! Childhood obesity is a continuallygrowing problem, and even just a few weeks of letting our good eating habits lapse can have negative impacts on our kids’ health. Occasional sweets and treats in small portions can be okay, but don’t let the season trick you into letting your child’s healthy eating habits languish. Be safe, be healthy, and Happy Holidays to you all! Dr. Samuel Ravenel, Board Certified Pediatrician, is a native of Greensboro, NC and joined Pediatric Associates, PA, in June of 2016. After completing his undergraduate work at University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, he completed medical school at Medical University of South Carolina and did his residency at Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters/Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, VA. Dr. Ravenel practices at our Cordova and Pace locations.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Paul Catholic Holds Successful Science Fair

The St. Paul Catholic School Science Expo 2017 was a great success. The 7th and 8th grade students were able to present their Science Fair boards to interested parents and fellow students. Wow! The projects were just amazing. Our Kindergarten presented a STEAM unit on animals and their habitats and created some terrific terrariums and habitat dioramas that they presented to their parents and visitors, Second grade presented their various engineering projects and discussed the strategies used to build them. Fourth grade did demonstrations involving magnetism. The Forensics Elective room was hopping with various interactive activities hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Battaglia and the 3D Design and Fabrication Elective had creations to view as well as a project on the 3D printer being printed before viewers eyes.

Blessed Star Builds Lighthouse

What’s a life of living off the beaches near a working lighthouse, without knowing the importance it played in history? At Blessed Star Montessori, the students learned about one of the first lighthouses, the Pharos of Alexandria, Egypt. This intrigued the students so much they began a lesson on the design and building components of a lighthouse. They learned enough to challenge themselves into building a working model lighthouse on campus.

Trinitas Soccer Knights Win Third in Panhandle Christian Conference

Under the leadership of Coach Phil Smith and alumnus parent Coach Shannon Parsley, Trinitas Christian School’s soccer team beat top rival Central Christian. It was an incredible match of intensity and skill in the regional tournament played in Fort Walton Beach. This victory took the team to the final four tournament for the first time since 2014. The Knights played Aletheia Christian in an exciting game on Thursday, outplaying them in time of possession, but coming up short on goals for a loss in the first round. The final match was played Saturday morning against Santa Rosa Christian, which proved victorious and ultimately placed the Knights third overall in the Conference.

Brentwood’s Saturday Scholars Visit Naval Museum

Brentwood Elementary students and their Navy mentors saw The Magic of Flight film and explored the Naval Aviation Museum together recently. Saturday Scholars is the longest continuous partnership of its kind between a Navy command and a school district - in the whole country! Most Saturdays, the military volunteers come to the students’ school. One weekend, they visit the museum together.

Little Flower Class Enjoys Skittle Math

Math is so FUN in Miss Grantham’s kindergarten class at Little Flower Catholic School. Her students are learning about least and most, along with equalizing sets. Hands-on learning is very effective with grasping these early math concepts. Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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Escambia County Names Outstanding Principals

The Escambia County School District’s Outstanding Principal of the Year is Susan Sanders, principal of R.C. Lipscomb Elementary. A graduate of Tate High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary and early childhood education and a master’s degree in elementary education from the University of West Florida. Sanders taught at Oakcrest and Beulah Elementary. She became an assistant principal while at Beulah and then served as assistant principal at R.C. Lipscomb before becoming the principal in 2012. Sanders is married to Kevin Sanders, who is also an educator in the Escambia County School District. They have two sons, Kevin and Tyler. During her tenure as principal at R.C. Lipscomb, Sanders has provided outstanding leadership for the faculty, staff, and students. She is passionate about the work she does at her school and maintains a strong focus on data-driven instruction. This past year the school earned a school grade of “A.” During her years at the school, Sanders has fostered this involvement by developing many positive relationships with parents and community members. Ransom Middle School’s Assistant Principal Sandra Ames has been selected as the District’s Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year. Ames is a product of the Escambia County School District, having graduated from Escambia High School in the top 5 of her graduating class. With a desire to be a teacher, Ames graduated from the University of West Florida magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in English education. She started her career as a teacher assistant at Pine Forest High School, working with Jim May. She taught language arts at PFHS for more than 20 years, impacting the lives of many Escambia County students. She began her administrative journey as a dean at Pine Forest. She then served as assistant principal at Brown Barge Middle, principal at Brown Barge and assistant principal at Ransom Middle. Ames is married to Scott Ames, who is an agriscience teacher at Ransom. The Ameses have three children who are all graduates of West Florida High School. Ames’s many years as a successful teacher make her an outstanding instructional leader. Most of all, Ames puts students first. Superintendent Malcolm Thomas is shown above with Sanders and below with Ames.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WALK-IN CLINIC

Make it a Summer of Discovery at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

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2018 Summer Camp Dates Announced Visit disl.org/dhp or Call 251-861-2141 101 Bienville Blvd.

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Autauga County Schools

Suter Students Attend Women in Aviation Day

Montessori Hosts Free Public Event

On December 2, Montessori School of Pensacola will host a free public event covering the Montessori educational cultural curriculum area. This area includes geography, history, botany, zoology and more. This overview allows attendees to see the exciting and hands-on way that these lessons are presented to students from toddler age through middle school. Students study and create maps of the world, learn about flags from around the world, parts of the leaf, parts of animals, and much more. Anyone interested in learning more about Montessori education is welcome. For more info, find us on Facebook.

AK Suter Elementary School was proudly represented at the International Women in Aviation Day at the National Flight Academy. Students attending were: Kaitlyn Daly, Shelby Ortegren, Reagan Smith, Emily Rogers and Sophia Senarosa. This year more than 200 girls participated in the event. A wonderful day filled with aviation inspired adventures onboard our state of the art virtual aircraft carrier, Ambition. As a highlight, the guest speaker was former Blue Angel #8 (and the second female to be selected as a “numbered Blue Angel”) Capt. Corrie Mays, USMC. Emily Rogers was the featured speaker to introduce Capt. Mays. Women in Aviation International’s network of more than 110 chapters were joined on September 23 by some WAI corporate members to produce “Girls in Aviation Day” events. Celebrated worldwide, Girls in Aviation Day is designed to introduce and educate girls up to 17 years of age on the many career choices and lifestyle possibilities offered by the aviation/aerospace industry.

Please email news to schoolnews@greaterpensacolaparents.com!

Saturday Scholars Full of Fun

Saturday was a busy day for the Brentwood Scholars including a math fluency relay, escape box challenge, reading and rock painting.

Little Flower Learns Bullying Prevention

Little Flower Catholic School wrapped up bullying prevention month in October. Guidance Counselor Abby Mills went to all of the classrooms and talked about how to keep school a bully-free zone. Kids learned about the types of bullying as well as how respect and kindness to one another can help stop bullying. The kids also signed the school banner making a commitment to help make LFCS a great environment by not mistreating others and standing up when they need help! Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

GBMS Gets Silly Reward for Fundraising

Gulf Breeze Middle School raised more than $1,400 for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign. The winning class had fun dousing Principal Mike Brandon with silly string. 12

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GBMS Hosts Veterans For Breakfast

Gulf Breeze Middle School’s advanced history class, along with teacher Grace Freeman, hosted the 11th annual Veterans Day Breakfast for relatives and friends recently. Decorations transformed the cafeteria into a patriotic venue. More than 125 veterans enjoyed listening to patriotic music provided by the GBMS Symphonic Band, who played The Star Spangled Banner and the March of the Armed Forces. Numerous teachers and students assisted with the annual event, helping with artwork, food preparation, photos and set-up.

CLA Awarded Grant From International Paper

Creative Learning Academy is the proud recipient of a $2,000 grant awarded by the International Paper Foundation. This year the Foundation gave out a total of $100,000 to improve the quality of life in our local community. The Foundation provides grants in support of their “signature causes — children’s education, hunger and health & wellness, and disaster relief.” Aligned with the Foundation’s efforts to support literacy and educational opportunities for children, CLA used this grant to introduce the “Happily Ever After” program in its preschool. Specifically developed to align with its existing “Superkids” reading curriculum, the addition of this early literacy program will provide Creative Learning Academy’s youngest students a stronger foundation and smoother transition into kindergarten. For more information about Creative Learning Academy’s pre-primary through eighth-grade programs, contact Karen Bowdich, director of advancement, or call (850) 432-1768.

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Autauga County Schools

Marcus Pointe Students Move to State Spelling Bee

Marcus Pointe Christian School secondgrader Kannon Ham and fourth-grader Zoey Hernandez placed second in the FACCS regional spelling bee competition, earning them a spot in the statewide competition.

St. John Third-Graders Create Saint Museum

Teacher Erin Kimbellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class at St. John School created a unique experience on All Saints Day, hosting a Living Saints Museum. Students from all grades were able to visit the museum and hear from different third-grade students about the lives and works of different Catholic saints. Each third-grader dressed up as his chosen saint and prepared a speech that would educate listeners on the fascinating history of each saint.

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Please email news and photos to editor@ greaterpensacolaparents.com by the 12th of each month!

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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ECSD Represented at Library Media Conference

Sacred Heart Dedicates Cathedral

On November 6, Bishop Wack celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the dedication of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart with his Cathedral School students. Both students and parishioners were blessed to share this joyous event with the beloved Bishop.

This year, several Escambia County School District library media specialists attended the annual FAME (Florida Association of Media in Education) conference, a three-day event featuring keynote presentations, workshops and current and practical sessions. The conference theme was, “Tell Your Story: Your Library’s Fantastic Journey.” In addition to participating in many of the sessions, some ECSD media specialists served as session presenters. Deana Martin presented “Gigantic Titanic Makespaces Mania;” Alisha Wilson presented “Keeping it Fresh: How to Create and Sustain a Maker Culture that Motivates Teens;” and Paula Stillman and Becky Mills presented “A Year in the Life of an Elementary School Librarian.” Also, three media specialists met as part of their service on the Sunshine State Young Readers Award committee: Laura Hobbs, Sara Ratliff and Roberta Wetzel. This committee puts in many hours of work throughout the year to support the statewide SSYRA program. For more info, contact Sheila Brandt, ECSD’s coordinator of media services, at (850) 469-5502, or visit ecsd-fl. schoolloop.com/media. Shown from top left: Jennifer Godwin (Warrington Elementary), Laura Hobbs (Lincoln Park), Jennifer Beal (McArthur Elementary), Janette Calder (Scenic Heights Elementary), Roberta Wetzel (Bailey Middle), Jamie King (Lipscomb Elementary), Inette Gardner (Montclair Elementary), Dolores Underwood (Ferry Pass Middle), Deanna Martin (Bellview Middle), Sara Ratilff (Warrington Middle) and Michelle White (Ferry Pass Elementary); bottom from left: Alisha Wilson (BTW High), Kim Yonker (Pensacola High), Becky Mills (N.B. Cook Elementary) and Paula Stillman (A.K. Suter Elementary). Not Pictured: Jill Doggett (Escambia High).

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East Hill History Fair Successful

More than 100 exhibits filled East Hill Christian School’s gymnasium on October 19 for this year’s District History Fair. The theme was “Conflict and Compromise in History.” EHCS middle and high school students presented outstanding History Fair projects that displayed their hard work and enthusiasm for their chosen topic. This year’s winners will represent EHCS at the Escambia County District History Fair in early 2018. Junior Division Individual Exhibit winners were: 1st place Alex Justice (7th grade), 2nd Gwyneth Keene (7th grade), 3rd Caleb Waters (7th grade) and 4th David Cook (8th grade). Junior Division Group Exhibit winners were: 1st place Lauryn Stuck & Lindsay Thomas (8th grade), 2nd Caitlyn Gagnet & Laurel Kate Voltz (8th grade) and 3rd McKenzie Little & Thyllia Smith (7th grade). Junior Division Individual Website winner was 1st place Spencer Jocson (6th grade). Junior Division Group Website winners were 1st place Gracie Hamilton & Chris Hatsfelt (8th grade). Junior Division Individual Performance winners were: 1st place KK Hindsman (7th grade), 2nd Ana Budianto (7th grade) and 3rd Presley Sheffield (7th grade). Senior Division Individual Exhibit winners were: 1st place Jeremy Herren (9th grade), 2nd Corinna Hrabar (10th grade), 3rd Ashley Cook (11th grade) and 4th Jeb Tubbs (12th grade). Senior Division Group Exhibit winners were: 1st place Bryce Cox and Myles Herren (12th grade), 2nd Lexi Grizzard and Claire Miller (12th grade), 3rd Cole and Hunter Stegall (11th grade) and 4th Lauren Bondurant (9th grade) & Anna Thomas (10th grade). Senior Division Individual Website winners were: 1st Tyler Yefremov (11th grade), 2nd Memphis Jocson (9th grade), 3rd place Sarah Ritenour (9th grade) and 4th Karissa Hansens (11th grade). Senior Division Group Website winners were: 1st place Isaiah and Malachi Waters (9th grade). Senior Division Group Documentary winners were: 1st place Clay Knighten and Max Wenzel (12th grade). Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

Trinitas Cross Country Team Finishes Strong

September 16 brought great competition and fine results for the Trinitas Christian School cross country team as members participated in the Wildcat XC Invitational. The 5K included running on grass and tackling wooded and sandy trails. Evan and Isaac Hennessey placed first and second respectively in the PCC boys’ division. McKinley Traylor won first place overall for the girls in the Pensacola Christian Conference as well. Some Trinitas Knights also came home from the Panhandle Christian Conference Championship Race on November 4 as 2017 cross country champions! These ladies and gentlemen have been training since the summer, running up to 44 miles or more a week and now get to reap the benefits of their hard work. Traylor won 1st place in the race and in the conference for the ladies. Three Trinitas gentlemen took the top three slots at the race with Evan Hennessey in 1st, Isaac Hennessey in 2nd, and Tucker Gregg in 3rd. Those same gentlemen placed 2nd, 1st and 4th respectively, on the season, with only one second separating the Hennessey brothers. The boys’ team also clinched the PCC Championship Title. Trinitas Cross Country Coach is AJ Traylor.

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Creative Learning Academy Honors Local Heroes for Veterans Day

In observance of Veterans’ Day, students at Creative Learning Academy welcomed two of CLA’s own parents and proud veterans into their classes. First, students benefited from a wonderful visit from parent LCDR Sonia Billups to learn about her exciting 30-year career in the U.S. Navy and various aspects of serving in the military. Later, through FaceTime, students were able to visit with deployed parent LT Mason Hoyt, U.S. Navy. Students enjoyed this unique experience while asking questions to learn about his duties and what life is like on deployment. LT Hoyt has been deployed for the last eleven months and is counting down the days until his return. Thank you to LCDR Billups and LT Hoyt for sharing these memorable experiences with CLA students. CLA’s observance of Veterans’ Day concluded at the Veterans Memorial Park, where fifteen CLA students were recognized for their award-winning essays on “Why it is important for a community like Pensacola to have a park dedicated to honoring all veterans that made the ultimate sacrifice?” We are grateful for organizations like the Veterans Memorial Park Foundation, who work in partnership with the City of Pensacola and other veterans organizations, to honor the local men and women in service of our nation. 16

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EHCS Soccer Team Represents at Nationals

The East Hill Christian varsity soccer team, led by Coach Rudy Seelmann, advanced to the Panhandle Christian Conference Championship this past month. This is the first time in many years that the EHCS soccer team has advanced to post-season play. In his second year as head coach, Seelmann has turned the program around and has taken the team from 2-10 just a few years ago, to 10-2 during the regular season, making great gains in both offense and defense. Through hard work and determination, the team finished runners-up in the conference. Eight seniors are on the team. The soccer program then travelled to Dayton, Tenn., to compete in the National Association of Christian Athletes (NACA) Tournament. EHCS had a 2-3 record at Nationals, which was enough to propel the team to third place in its bracket. Team members started off with three losses, but the team heated up and finished strong with 2-0 and 1-0 wins against opponents.

Blessed Star Extended Avionics Curriculum

Blessed Star students had an invaluable interactive experience at the National Naval Aviation Museum that extended their current studies on flight and avionics within their classroom. They explored more than a century of naval aviation history with a tour guide, learned about aircraft carriers at the giant screen theater, participated in a flight deck operation simulator and a motionbased flight simulator, then ended with a viewing of the Blue Angels practicing maneuvers outside the museum. A big thanks to the great staff at the museum who made this experience memorable and enjoyable to our students.

Please email news and photos to editor@ greaterpensacolaparents.com by the 12th of each month!

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County Holds Successful Foundation Auction

Thanks to everyone who contributed toward the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation Auction. From the organizers on the Foundation Board, led by Michelle Salzman and Randy Ramos... to the local businesses and individuals and schools and PTAs, who donated items to go in the baskets... to the Washington High School Orchestra students who performed .... to the Culinary Arts students with their cute and tasty little cupcakes... to Texas Roadhouse for sending the food... to the staff at the Wright Place for their help at every event held there.......and then to everyone who attended to bid and to cheer for their friends who won Teacher Opportunity Grants...... to the perfect weather..... an amazing night!

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St. John Sunset Gala

At the beginning of November, St. John School celebrated its Sunset Gala, a lovely evening of catered dinner, dancing, an auction, and a time of celebrating the heritage and the future of St. John. Teachers and students provided support and hospitality throughout the night, while the pastor, Fr. John Licari, provided entertainment by singing to Gala guests.

Montessori Fall Fun

The annual Montessori School of Pensacola fall festival was held October 28 at the Montessori Drive campus. The event is a fundraiser for the MSP parent-teacher organization and is a time of fun for the parents, staff and children. There are pony rides, face painting, toy and book exchanges, craft booths and this year a dunking booth was added. Parent volunteers serve MSP’s famous black bean salsa, along with grilled foods, and this year hummus was provided by an MSP parent’s local business, The Hummus Lady. The MSP middle school sells smoothies to raise funds for annual class trips.

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Episcopal Students Volunteer to ‘Fill the Mayflower’ for Manna Food Pantries

Episcopal Day School of Christ Church Parish (EDS) students, faculty and staff volunteered their time as well as collected food donations to “Fill the Mayflower.” For 10 consecutive years, Coastal Moving and Storage and the Bradshaw family have worked to provide this service to our community and EDS is proud to support their mission year after year. The Mayflower moving truck was parked on Wright Street in front of Christ Church and Episcopal Day School, located at 223 N. Palafox Street in Pensacola, on November 17. Students from both EDS campuses filled the truck with food they collected to support Manna Food Pantries. All donations from the public were welcome and appreciated. EDS is proud to be part of historic downtown Pensacola and is actively engaged in service to our community. Last year, EDS collected 2,502 pounds of food, which was enough to provide food for a day for more than 500 people served by Manna Food Pantries. For more information or to learn more about how you can help Manna Food Pantries, please visit http://www.mannafoodpantries.org/evnt-mayflower.asp or call (850) 432-2053. more info about Episcopal Day School in Pensacola, call (850) 434-6474 or visit www.edscc.org. Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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East Hill Hosts College Fair

East Hill Christian School hosted a college fair with both Christian and regional universities attending. Students in grades 10-12, along with parents, joined admissions counselors in the gym for productive meetings and an exchange of information on October 23. College admissions counselors from Mississippi, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and Florida set up booths and answered questions about tuition, admissions, scholarships and more!

Sherwood STEM Day

Take a peek into Sherwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first schoolwide STEM Day! The challenge: Help Jack escape the giant by constructing a parachute using everyday household items.

St. John School Artists

St. John School students had a great showing of artwork in the Greater Gulfcoast Art Festival, winning multiple ribbons and honorable mentions! The St. John 4H Club also did a wonderful job at the Pensacola Interstate Fair winning 3rd Place for its booth. In addition to their creative booth, 4H students entered individual art and craftworks in the fair, with wonderful results. Sixth-grade students won first place for quilting, first place for drawing, third place for painting, and honorable mention for flower arrangement. 19

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Blessed Star Montessori Tours Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum

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After working so hard to learn all about lighthouses and building one, it only seemed right to take these eager Blessed Star Montessori learners to tour the Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum located on NAS Pensacola. There the students got an up-close and personal experience of how the light has changed over the years, women’s roles in the history of lighthouses, and how important the lighthouse was to sailors years ago and still is today. During this learning adventure, we took the opportunity to stop by the Pensacola Naval Museum for a brief visit. The students’ excitement and questions have led to an upcoming flight lesson.

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Little Flower Supports Breast Cancer Awareness

Little Flower Catholic School’s Student Council was Making Strides at the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk in October. The kids hosted a middle school dance with all the proceeds going toward their team’s donation for the walk. It was a fun morning with a great group of Little Flower students and parents supporting an even greater cause.

Please email news to schoolnews@greaterpensacolaparents.com!

Weis Elementary Principal Flies Over in Blue Angel Jet

Local Sailors Visit Saturday Scholars

Sailors from Corry Station have partnered with the Escambia County School District twice a year for more than 30 years to work with kids in the Saturday Scholars Program. While the name of the Navy command has changed over time, the dedication and professionalism shown by these young military students as they teach, coach, mentor and friend the ECSD students is always commendable. The latest session came to its end with a graduation ceremony on November 4 at Brentwood Elementary. Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

C. A. Weis Elementary Principal Holly Magee got to see her school and her kids from a whole new perspective recently .... from the back seat of a Blue Angels jet as it flew over her school! Magee was nominated for the Key Influencer flight by Capt Martin, the commanding officer of NAS Pensacola, after he learned about the community school during an Achieve Escambia visit. The weather was not cooperating, the fog was so thick early in the morning that the flight was delayed and they only flew over one time.... but everyone had fun watching the jet as it flew a giant U-turn in the sky. Thank you Jake Newby/ PNJ, Andrew McKay/WNRP and Squeak/WEAR for joining us. And a special thanks to Capt Martin and the flight students who came out and answered a LOT of questions from the kids! 20

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ECSD and VTMAE Aviation Maintenance Partners Meet

Students enrolled in the Booker T. Washington High School Aviation Maintenance Academy and the aviation maintenance programs at George Stone Technical Center took a break from classes recently to meet representatives from VT Mobile Aerospace Engineering (VTMAE). Washington’s Principal Dr. Michael Roberts welcomed the visitors and accepted a plaque that will be displayed in the academy spaces to represent the partnership between the school district, the academy and VTMAE. Alvin Bass, director of maintenance for VTMAE, spoke to the students and shared a message he delivers when he meets with those responsible for maintaining aircraft. Principal T.J. Rollins welcomed the visitors to the George Stone Technical Center, accepted a plaque representing the partnership, and invited the VTMAE representatives to tour the spaces at GSTC and meet the students. He said the first class is set to graduate in December and another group is coming behind in the summer. Rollins made a point of acknowledging Bill Davis, the instructor who built this program from the ground up getting all of the equipment, the curriculum and working with the FAA as well as building the partnership with VTMAE. At George Stone, Bass explained that this commitment to provide training for future employees was one of the key factors in VTMAE’s final decision of expanding its business in the Pensacola area. Bass also thanked Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward and Florida Governor Scott for supporting ECSD’s ability to provide a welltrained, competent and stable workforce. Shown, Alvin Bass presents a partnership plaque to Principal Dr. Michael Roberts during his visit to Booker T. Washington High School’s Aviation Maintenance Academy on Oct. 20.

Workman Middle Continues To Receive Support

The Workman Middle School Orchestra students and their teacher never would have imagined the outpouring of support they have received since the fire in May. They recently received even more when representatives from Zarzaur Law stopped by with a very nice donation!

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ECSD Schools Announce Teachers of the Year

Escambia County School District is proud to share the list of this year’s Teachers of the Year. Each person on this list has been selected by his or her peers and represents ingenuity, dedication, compassion, organization and so many other traits shared by teachers in each school. They all teach subject areas and how to use technology, but they also teach life skills and employability skills such as teamwork, time management and social responsibility. Each has been honored by his school and will also be honored at the district level at the Golden Apple Awards set for Jan. 26, 2018. Sponsored by the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation is a special night when each of these outstanding educators will receive his Golden Apple. The top five will receive special recognition and the overall Teacher of the Year will be announced. The schools and their respective outstanding teachers are: Alternative Education, Mercedes Musto; Jim Allen Elementary, Cheryl Massey; Jim C. Bailey Middle, Bobby White; Bellview Elementary, Katie Trier; Bellview Middle, Paulette Brown; Beulah Academy of Science, Rodney Story; Beulah Elementary, Suzanne Hollingsworth; Blue Angels Elementary, Donna C. McKay; Bratt Elementary, Kim Ryan; Brentwood Elementary, Mrs. Scotti Mason; Brown-Barge Middle, David Mellor; Byrneville Elementary, James McDaniel; Camelot Academy, Barbara Belvin, Hellen Caro Elementary, Amy Blamires; N.B. Cook Elementary, Kim Anthony; Cordova Park Elementary, Julios Dewberry; Ensley Elementary, Myra L. Palmer; Escambia High, Keitha Jenkins Brown; Escambia Westgate, Barbara McGill; Ferry Pass Elementary, Nikki Cole; Ferry Pass Middle, Dustin Brenton; Global Learning Academy, Clarence Myles, Jr.; Reinhardt Holm Elementary, Tonya Gron; Lakeview School, Sherry King; Lincoln Park Primary, Jamala Richardson; R.C. Lipscomb Elementary, Patti Payne; Longleaf Elementary, Rena Croker; L.D. McArthur Elementary, Elizabeth Benoit; McMillan Pre-K, Lillian Welch; Molino Park Elementary, Shana Brown; Montclair Elementary, Catherine Gritsavage; Myrtle Grove Elementary, Angela Carver; Navy Point Elementary, Dawn Paulus; Northview High, Megan Carroll; Oakcrest Elementary, Lori Martin; Pensacola High, Thelma Mullin; Pine Forest High, Jeffrey Lance; Pine Meadow Elementary, Vanessa Taylor; Pleasant Grove Elementary, Alison Schultheis (Sarah); Ransom Middle, James Jackson; Scenic Heights Elementary, Melissa Thompson; O.J. Semmes Elementary, Cole Harper; Sherwood Elementary, Alexis Quick; George Stone Technical Center, Susan Shockley; A.K. Suter Elementary, Susan Anderson; J.M. Tate High, Alton “Dale” Gilmore; Title 1, Wendy Ellis; Ernest Ward Middle, Jennifer Luker; Warrington Elementary, Keri Buck; Warrington Middle, Anne Laurenzi; Booker T. Washington High, Carla Ross; C.A. Weis Elementary, Jennifer Kemp; West Florida High, Shawn Walker; West Pensacola Elementary, Tereasa Newton; W.J. Woodham Middle, William Broome; and J.H. Workman Middle, Milagros Sessions. Not submitting names this year: Escambia Charter, Jacqueline Harris Prep. Academy and Pensacola Beach Elementary.

Montessori School of Pensacola Visits Global Village in Rural Arkansas Montessori School of Pensacola’s seventh- and eighth-graders returned from immersive camp with a deeper understanding of global hunger and how rural communities around the world can lift themselves out of poverty through farming. It’s not what you’d expect most middle-schoolers to spend a lot of time thinking about. But after a three-day field trip to a working farm in rural Arkansas, 28 seventh- and eighth-graders from Montessori School of Pensacola are thinking and talking about social responsibility and how they can make a difference for others. The students returned from Heifer International’s Global Village, a 1,200-acre ranch in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. There, they spent one night in a barn and another night in a village site representing some of the poorest rural settings in the world. They developed an appreciation and understanding of what it’s like to cook a meal with limited resources and struggle through daily living in many areas of the world. The experiential camp, one of three in the U.S., is part of Heifer International, a charity organization working to end global hunger and poverty by providing livestock and training to struggling communities. The organization’s values are in keeping with the philosophy of the school. Montessori schools — named after the late Italian physician Maria Montessori — emphasize respect, self-direction, multi-age classrooms and experiential learning. “The goal of our schools is to help students grow in understanding that they are global citizens,” Headmaster Maria Mitkevicius said of the trip, “We need to think beyond ourselves and recognize that we should care about other people and about our shared environment.” More than one billion people in the world go hungry every day. The students learned how Heifer helps bring sustainable agriculture to areas of systemic poverty, providing community partners with both food and reliable income from milk, eggs and honey that can be traded or sold at market. This was the second time that Montessori School of Pensacola students have visited the Heifer International ranch. “It’s an experience the students won’t soon forget,” Mitkevicius said. Heifer International’s overnight programs combine “the emotion of experiential education with the empowerment of service learning.” During their overnight camp, MSP students were immersed into farming and poverty to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the world and to think about their roles and responsibilities as global citizens.

Please email news and photos to editor@ greaterpensacolaparents.com! Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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Creative Learning Academy Dragons 2017 CYSL Volleyball Champions

For a third consecutive year, Creative Learning Academy’s Level 3 girls’ volleyball team won the CYSL championship. The CLA Dragons took home the trophy as the overall season champions for the Catholic Youth Sports League, or CYSL. These remarkable players quickly adjusted to an unavoidable mid-season coach change as Coach Javier Rivera returned to Puerto Rico to help his family in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Under the guidance and amazing support of Coach Davenport, our girls continued to develop as a team and demonstrated true Dragon spirit. Coach Rivera returned in time to witness the team rise to the playoff games and win the championship. “It is always great being surrounded by such hard-working, not to mention a kind group, of young student athletes,” he said.

PENSACOLA GYMNASTICS at Pensacola State College Now offering Gymnastics Birthday Parties and Parents Night Out Preschool Recreational Gymnastics For more information www.PensacolaState.edu/ce 850-484-1319

Trinitas Kindergartners Reenact Battle of Baltimore

The Trinitas kindergarten class recently learned about Fort McHenry with Mrs. Sarrell. The children erected a lego and block replica of the fort and even reenacted the American victory at the Battle of Baltimore. With bombs made from toilet paper, they were able to get a feel for the dramatic battle scene that took place during the War of 1812. Immediately after this battle, Francis Scott Key wrote our national anthem, the Star Spangled Banner. If you look closely, you can see Old Glory in the center of the table (fort).

PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE Pensacola State College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, color, gender/sex, age, religion, marital status, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or genetic information in its educational programs, activities or employment. For inquiries regarding Title IX and the college’s nondiscrimination policies, contact the Associate Vice President for Institutional Diversity/Title IX Officer at 850-484-1759, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola, Florida 32504.

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Veterans’ Day Program @ St. John School

St. John School celebrated all veterans and military personnel on November 13. Student representatives from grades two through eight read personal essays they had written thanking veterans for their selfless service. During the program, St. John was able to celebrate and pray for each branch of our nation’s military and recognize students’ family members who have been examples of patriotic service!

Sacred Heart Volunteers at Halloween Party For Special Needs Kids

Sacred Heart Cathedral School students volunteered at the YMCA’s annual Halloween party for special needs children. SHCS eighth-graders love serving at this fun event every year.

St. Paul Catholic Runners Take 2nd Place

Pine Forest Presents to School Board

The St. Paul Catholic School Running Club participated in the 33rd Great Pumpkin Run hosted by Sacred Heart Catholic School. Congratulations to Kian Jones and Xander Aird who took home 2nd place for their age group.

Pine Forest High School’s New Media Academy presented to the Escambia County School Board during its November Workshop and the kids did an outstanding job!

Blessed Star Prepares for Medieval Presentations and Feast

Blessed Star Montessori students rediscovered the Medieval Period in Europe recently. Inspired by the amazing gear of the time, students created and decorated their own crowns, scepters and shields. To see the amazing creations they wore at the medieval presentations and feast, check out our Facebook page for details.

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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Trinitas Kindergartners Meet Pet Goose

This week Mrs. Sarrell’s class at Trinitas Christian School enjoyed learning all about a special winged bird, Mr. McGee’s pet toulouse goose, Isabella. The students learned about her diet of fish and grass, her webbed feet, and also the great width of her wing span. They will meet a goat soon and perhaps even get the opportunity to milk one! Who knew learning the letter “G” could be so much fun?

Gulf Breeze Middle Studies Gravity

Students in Gulf Breeze Middle School science classes learned about gravity by calculating and comparing how long an “earth jump” would be on other planets in our solar system and on the moon.

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Marcus Pointe Holds Supply Drive for Animal Shelter

Montessori Student Rides to School on Fire Truck

Six lucky readers from the Summer Reading Club at West Florida Public Libraries received rides to school from Escambia County Fire Rescue after being drawn from a pool of 72 children who read 50 or more hours this summer. The children participated in Summer Reading Club at libraries across Escambia County. Firefighters picked up each child from their homes and took them to school. After the ride, each child went up in the bucket with the firefighters and then enjoyed a fire safety presentation with their classmates. Eleven-year-old Kyle Crews rode to Montessori School of Pensacola on October 18. He said one of his favorite books from the summer was 100 Cupboards by N.D. Wilson. His fellow students were very surprised to see him arrive on the truck and loved getting to spend time with the Pensacola firefighters.

Marcus Pointe Christian Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first-grade classes got together and collected muchneeded supplies for the Escambia County Animal Shelter. The abundance of supplies given was amazing! The kids collected blankets, towels, toys, food, snacks, peanut butter, honey, litter, bowls, training pads and more. When they delivered the supplies, the staff at the shelter were very welcoming, and allowed the students and parent helpers to see and pet the animals.

Sacred Heart School Hosts Thanksgiving Feast

Sacred Heart Cathedral School hosted its second annual Thanksgiving Feast on the Friday before Thanksgiving break. Room parents served a traditional Thanksgiving meal to all students as they ate together as one school family. One of our students also received his first communion at Mass that morning.

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Lights, Camera, Action: HOLIDAYS! Does the holiday season feel like a production to you? It does for me in some ways, especially since I have a child who performs in a Christmas show this year. We will be hustling and bustling around for a week to prepare for the show. But I don’t want to let this time of year stress me out or pass me by without truly enjoying it. So I’m taking a few cues from Hollywood and Broadway to help me have a more memorable, festive season. This includes lights, camera and action for the holidays.

Holiday Lights

Holiday lights are a favorite among my children. We try to find a heavily decorated place to enjoy Christmas lights and hear carols each year. However, my children aren’t too picky. They find lights on our daily commute. In fact they love to count the number of decorated, lit houses on our nightly drive home. Several particular neighborhoods, community centers and churches in our region have a nice display of holiday illumination. There are Christmas events and parades this month as well. If you can’t make any of those, then choose to shine a figurative light on a child or family in need. Adopt an angel through a local charity, church or school. There are so many individuals in our community who could use a helping hand. Talk to local family services and resource centers for specific ways to help brighten someone’s holiday.

Holiday Photos

As the parent, do you find yourself behind the camera and never in photos? That is often the case for me. Let’s change that this holiday month and instead let our children go behind the lens and capture moments they find special. Show them how to use the camera (or camera phone) and ask them to snap their favorite shots. If you need a good family photo this holiday season, consider doing something that is unique to your family. Think of what your crew enjoys and incorporate that into the photo – football, fishing or pancakes. Choose a casual place and style to let kids be more comfortable. Another idea is to make a holiday photo album for your kids as a gift. Look back at the pictures you’ve taken this past year and make them into a scrapbook for your family. My children love looking back at their baby books and school memories. That is a very personal and memorable way to share precious moments. Involve everyone in the family and start a yearly tradition of not just a holiday family photo, but a book full of the past year’s favorite moments.

Holiday Spirit

Now that your family has seen lights and taken photos, what else can put you into the holiday spirit? Have the right attitude and practice gratitude. For the twelve 27

days before Christmas, ask your children to help you develop a list of 12 simple, fun things you can do together. Ask them to name a new thing each day that they consider a blessing. There is so much to reflect upon this time of year. Remind the little ones in your life about the reason for the season and consider encouraging them to donate toys and items from their stash before the holidays to help another child or family in need.

Different Observances

Of course, Christmas isn’t the only holiday to celebrate this season. There is also Kwanza, the Festival of Lights and other observances. If your family doesn’t observe or celebrate a certain holiday, spend some time learning about a different culture. Turn it into a history or educational lesson. Reach out to friends who are diverse and celebrate differently from you to learn more. If possible, try to witness how they honor a public holiday.

Make it a Memorable Season

What will bring you and your family joy this season? Is it baking cookies? Is it watching the Polar Express film in your pajamas together? Sit around the table and make a holiday wish list. On the list include not just things you want but memories you hope to make. Do these things and rejoice in your family time together this holiday season.

Mandy B. Fernandez is a writer living in Pensacola, Florida with her husband and two children. She has a B.A. in English with a minor in Technical Writing. She writes on topics such as business, education, creative arts, health, family life, parenting and natural foods. In addition she loves sharing humorous stories, poetry and essays about womanhood and motherhood. Her first children’s book, Kazoo Makes The Team, was just released. Visit her at www.writtenbymandy.com.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Being the Parent Your Teen Needs As parents, we put a lot of expectations on ourselves. Before kids, we might have been content to be average Joes and Janes. But the moment that little bundle of joy was first placed in our arms, we felt the need to put on a cape and transform into “Super Parent”! And that’s a hard role to play. But good news mom and dad—your teen doesn’t need you to be a superhero. In my 40 years of working with teens, I’ve discovered that our kids don’t need parents who are perfect saints or super human. Teens simply need parents who are willing to make some necessary changes.

Parents Who Are Willing To Be Imperfect

First, let’s debunk the fairytale that families can attain perfection. Where exactly did that myth come from? No family is perfect. So quit trying. It flies in the face of reality, and yet I find so many families working overtime to look, act, and be the perfect family. Relax. Deal with failures as opportunities to learn. If you have never shared your personal flaws with your kids, they haven’t had an opportunity to see what it’s like to live with imperfection. Instead, they think that faultlessness is normal. The first time they sprout a pimple they’re ready to freak out! Let me offer you this challenge—tonight around the dinner table, share one thing about you that isn’t as perfect as you’d like it to be. By sharing your inadequacies, you allow your teen to connect with you in a different way. It will reaffirm your teen’s understanding and acceptance of himself, while drawing him into relationship with you as well. Teens need parents who are willing to be imperfect.

Parents Willing to Be Disliked

Parents who want to “rescue” their children from pain or suffering are actually hurting their kids more then they know. It usually happens for three reasons: • Parents want to be friends with their kids. • Parents can’t handle the constant nagging of their teen during punishment. • Parents are afraid that if they punish their child, he or she will rebel. Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

Mom and Dad, your child doesn’t need another friend. During these tough adolescent years they need you to be a parent—to correct them when they make a mistake and love them regardless of their behavior. Teens need parents who are willing to love their kids, even if it means their kids dislike them. So if your daughter gets a speeding ticket, don’t pay for it yourself. If your son is failing a class, don’t do his homework for him. Yes, we should extend grace to our teens. But showing grace doesn’t mean swooping in and saving the day when your kid messes up. That’s caving in. Setting aside time to help with homework is loving. Writing their book report–because you read it and they didn’t–is rescuing. Teens learn independence and maturity when they face hard times more than when everything is going smooth. Handing out discipline isn’t for the faint of heart. I know it can be hard, draining, and exhausting. No matter what your kids might think in the moment, punishment isn’t a cruel action. When done in the right way, it can be an expression of love. And it’s what your kids need from you.

Parents Who Are Willing to Say “No”

Some parents relish being needed by their teenager. They dote on them and take care of their every need. They ask “How high?” when their teens says, “Jump!” They may even take abuse and disrespect from their teen when it is directed their way, thinking, “Oh, they’re just having a bad day.” These parents need to step back and understand that teens need to hear “no” sometimes. If not, it will lead to selfish, bossy, and entitled adolescents who don’t understand when life doesn’t go their way. It’s okay to say “no” as long as you provide a good reason. When your son demands the latest iPhone, you are allowed to say “no” and explain why. When your daughter asks to go to a certain party, you have the freedom to say “no” and provide your reasons. Life doesn’t always say “yes” to our requests. And parents shouldn’t either. 28

Parents Who Are Willing to Let Go

Very few comments made by high school seniors and college students can scare parents more than when young people announce their desire to “fly the coop” and become independent. Those words are tough to hear because in the minds of most parents there is a voice shouting, “We can’t let this happen!” Some parents might think, “What will they do without me?” Other parents wonder, “What will I do without them?” Change is hard, but the desire for independence is actually a very normal and healthy desire in teens. So when your child comes to you with plans to launch out and go to college, move out, or make smaller steps towards independence, I encourage you to consider what your child is actually asking. This may be the opportunity to affirm those character traits and values that you have spent years building into the moral fabric of your son or daughter. Instead of thinking about all the reasons your teen shouldn’t go, think of all that might be accomplished by giving your stamp of approval on an ultimately very necessary transition. Realize that this may be a wonderful opportunity. Teens need parents who are willing to let go. They need parents who believe in them and can even encourage them to become increasingly independent. Isn’t that the goal of raising kids to become adults? Now, I’m not saying that as parents you should throw caution to the wind and go with anything your kid suggests. But I am saying that because your 12 year old will one day become that 18 or 19-year-old young adult, you need to train to let go, and foster independence more and more each year. Trust what you have taught, and are teaching. And even enjoy watching them launch into the adulthood. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Getting All the Colors in Play

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

From the earliest age we surround our children with bright primary colors and strong contrasting shades to engage their senses. It’s believed that newborns discern black and white, only developing the ability to see color around three months. Once babies notice and differentiate color, parents begin to use everyday moments to introduce the youngest eyes to red, green, yellow, blue and more. When toddlers’ eyesight refines so does their interest in colorful objects and this fascination continues to evolve as they grow. As we age we discover broader palettes, even cultivating our favorite colors that accompany us into adulthood. Celebrating the exploration of color in variety of engaging ways, the following items offer a rainbow of resourceful color play.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Rainbow Counting Bears and Cups

Think & Learn Smart Scan Color Chameleon

Just the right size for little hands, this bright brigade of bears leads the way for small children exploring a colorful range of teachable moments. Featuring 60 small bears in six colors, six matching color cups, a storage container and an activity book available as download, this collection has endless educational outcomes to explore. These boldly colored bears stimulate open-ended play and learning activities that can help develop kids’ fine motor skills, cognitive understanding and visual perception. Color matching, cup stacking, sorting and early number sense enjoy a great beginning with these bears. Ideal for supporting counting games, Montessori math as well as autism therapy, Rainbow Counting Bears and Cups offer a broad spectrum of tactile color experience as part of every day play.

The Smart Scan Color Chameleon climbs to the top of learning electronics with innovative games and goals that get kids up and moving on the hunt for color. Kids use the hand-held chameleon scanner to learn colors and numbers associated with the included paint chips before being directed to seek out other specific chips. The color hunt can also expand into the larger house setting with additional games that challenge kids to find and scan other colors. Children are soon scrambling around their surroundings seeking new colors to scan. This kind of open-ended discovery is ideal for keeping kids engaged and learning. Just as versatile and colorful as its namesake, the Think & Learn Smart Scan Color Chameleon packs a lot of learning into one fun resource.

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Color-Changing Lab Putty

(Mindware)

Reminiscent of a flat Rubik’s Cube, this color-driven game places two players in a head-to-head race to see who can sort and manipulate color tiles the fastest. Equipped with their own lidded tile board and individual color cube shaker, the game play starts when the players shake their cubes and slam them down together. What follows is a vivid, lightning-fast race of color tiles on each players game board as they strive to duplicate the color pattern revealed in their shaker cube. The first to match the pattern with their tiles wins the round by quickly closing the clear lid down on their board, framing their colorful victory. Challenging spatial cognition and strategy, color sorting is just the beginning of this invigorating game as two players race to Square Up!

(Lab Putty)

In its resting (cool) state, the putty is dark violet. But when fingers begin to explore the thermosensitive putty surface, touch points begin to warm up into a bright pink. When the whole of the putty color has morphed to pink, placing the putty in a chilly spot (refrigerator or cool water) for a moment recharges the color-change exploration. Stretching, twisting, and shaping the putty provides an additional tactile stimulation that offers a degree of stress-relief and creative play. Non-toxic, non-drying and residuefree, this little bit of color science is also a perfect portable for travel entertainment. Putting the power of color-change in your grasp, this morphing lab putty is easy to pick up and hard to put down!

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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There is nothing more heartwarming than a gift made by a child. Handmade gifts are affordable, fun to make, and can be given to parents, grandparents, teachers, and siblings. Here are some gifts that are sure to make someone special smile this holiday season. Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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Prints

All you need is a child’s cooperation, some paint, and a little creativity to make a gift that will be cherished for years. Handprints, fingerprints, and even footprints can be used to make a variety of crafts and art. Websites like Pinterest are full of ideas of how to make a handprint into a picture of Santa, a Christmas tree, reindeer, or snowmen. There are literally hundreds of possibilities. Try putting your child’s prints on an apron, ornament, tea towel, oven mitt, or T-shirt to give to a special someone. Make sure to follow the directions on the paint to ensure that the design lasts for years. As a bonus, your kids will love getting messy during the process.

Tasty Treats

Kids love to help out in the kitchen, so why not put together some tasty treats for some sweet people in your life? Get the kids involved in the holiday baking and put together a plate of cookies the kids can help deliver to a neighbor or friend. Putting a homemade cookie mix into a mason jar also makes an easy gift that kids can help with. Finish the jar with a holiday bow and instructions and it’s ready to be delivered.

Give History & Art For The

Shop UWF Historic Trust museum stores for unique Pensacola and mission-specific gifts including apparel, artwork, books, jewelry, children’s games and activity books, home accessories and more. T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum Pensacola Children’s Museum Tivoli High House Pensacola Museum of Art

Champagne & Shopping Thursday, December 7 4:00 -7:00 p.m. T. T. Wentworth, Jr Museum & Pensacola Museum of Art 15% off for the public, 25% off for members

HISTORICPENSACOLA.ORG PENSACOLAMUSEUM.ORG

Frame It

Photos make a favorite gift for any proud aunt, uncle, parent, or grandparent. Get kids involved in picking out favorite photos from the past year and putting them into a collage with handmade drawings or a poem. Try making a scrapbook page that can be framed for a special gift. Picture frames can be made with decorated popsicle sticks, clay, or an existing frame can be painted or decorated with mosaic tiles, buttons, or other craft supplies. Affordable frames can be found at local thrift stores or the dollar store.

Personalized Gifts

Nothing is more thoughtful than a gift made to fit the recipient’s personal tastes. Talk to your child about the their favorite hobbies and tailor the gift to their interests. For example, use permanent markers to decorate golf balls for the golf lover in your life, decorate a plain coffee mug for the coffee lover in the family, have your child create a special bookmark for the

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Holiday Lantern Tours Join us for an enchanting evening tour through Historic Pensacola and the historic Lavalle, Dorr and Lear/Rocheblave houses, each period-appropriately decorated. Guides dressed in Victorian finery will share holiday traditions of the past.

O N D 1 (includes hospitality room) •T: $50 per person

D 2, 8, 9, 15 & 16 •T: adults $15, children age 12 & younger $8

*All tours depart from the Tivoli High House, 205 E. Zaragoza St., at 6:30, 7:00 & 7:30 p.m.

L . T      .   850.595.5985 . 111. 31

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Te The Polar Express will screen at 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday beginning Saturday, November 25 through Sunday, December 17, with an additional showing on Saturday, December 23. Children wearing pajamas receive free hot cocoa and a cookie. Tickets are $7 and advanced tickets are available in person at the ticket counter.

bookworm you know, or use fingerprints to decorate wooden utensils for your favorite chef. Kids can also use scrapbook paper, stickers, craft supplies, and cardstock to make custom stationery. Making personalized gifts also helps teach kids to be observant of other’s interests that may be outside their own.

Utilize Beads

OPEN 9–5 DAILY ON NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA • FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION

Beads are an affordable and versatile craft item that can be used for a variety of gifts. Small children can string beads on a pipe cleaner to make a candy cane or cross ornament. Older children can make personalized jewelry or key chains for loved ones. Pony beads can be melted to make into a suncatcher, mobile, or even a bowl. With beads, you can give your child some ideas and let their creativity lead them.

850- 453-2389 • 800-327-5002 • NavalAviationMuseum.org • 1750 Radford Blvd. • Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL 32508

Spa at Home

5308 Stewart Street Milton, FL 32570 Phone: (850) 626-3091

4901 West Fairfield Dr., Pensacola, FL 32506 Phone: (850) 458-7735

charter school for ESE pre-K child care center speech, occupational & physical therapies available low student-teacher ratio

CapstoneLearning.org

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

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Do you know someone who needs some rest and relaxation? Try mixing equal parts white or brown sugar and olive oil for an easy sugar scrub that is a great gift for anyone who deserves a day at the spa. There are many recipes for homemade soaps, sugar scrubs, and bath salts available online. Many can be mixed together in just minutes and cost very little to make. This luxurious gift may be quick and affordable, but it is sure to make your recipients feel loved and appreciated. There is great value in teaching kids to give gifts to others. They learn to be generous, thoughtful, and experience the joy of giving. They also learn the important lesson that gifts do not need to cost a fortune to be cherished. GPP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to six children. Her kids enjoy creating special gifts for loved ones.

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Teaching kids value of giving Q. What are some ways to teach preteens the value of giving versus getting during the holiday season?

A. As a parent, one of the best things you can do is be a living, breathing example of the importance of giving and caring about others. There’s nothing wrong with having some stuff, but many of today’s marketing messages can lead kids to believe it’s all about them. And the sad truth is advertising firms are often more aggressive with their teaching than parents are in theirs.

I would encourage you to find giving experiences in which you can participate as a family. Volunteering for a day at a homeless shelter is a wonderful example of giving that requires absolutely no money. Or maybe you could pull out your wallet, and spend the day shopping for groceries and Christmas gifts for families who are financially less fortunate. Make sure your kids are involved physically, mentally, and emotionally in the entire giving process. Let them experience the grateful, and sometimes ungrateful, responses that go along with giving. With a little thought and planning, you can create some incredible teaching and family bonding experiences that will change everyone’s lives forever!

Budgeting for taxes Q. I recently started my own business, and I know I’m supposed to pay taxes quarterly. How do I budget for those, and how much do I save?

A. You should always establish a separate checking account when you open a business. All your business income, and nothing else, should go directly into that account. Nothing else goes in or out of that account except for business expenses. What you have left, by definition, is profit. When you take that home, set aside 25 percent for your federal, quarterly estimates. In most cases — especially with a small, start-up business — that will put you pretty close to what you’ll need. If you make more than $60,000 to $70,000 in profits, however, you may want to kick that percentage up a little bit. It’s always better to save too much than too little.

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Santa’s Wonderland Free Santa Photo Through December 24 @ Bass Pro Shop 4301 Legendary Drive Destin, FL 32541 850-269-6200 www.basspro.com

20000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL 36527 251-607-5900 www.basspro.com

Free santa photo, children’s activities, craft and more. Times and activities change by date, visit our website for details. A Bass Pass is required and provides a time slot to see Santa, allowing you to explore Santa’s Wonderland or shop the store while waiting in a virtual line. Bass Passes are limited and go quickly each day.

Photos with Santa at The Wharf

Through December 24 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Come visit with Santa and get a keepsake photo. Various price packages available. Fridays 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Saturdays 10:00 am to 7:00pm and Sundays 12:00pm to 6:00 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Ice Skating Rink

Through January 14 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Come to The Wharf and skate through a winter wonderland this holiday season. Contact us for a prices and skating schedule. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Winterfest- Let it Snow

Through December 24 @ Downtown Pensacola Pensacola, FL 32502 Snow falls every night of the Winterfest celebration 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Gulf Breeze Optimist Club Christmas Tree Sale

@ Gulf Breeze High School Football Field Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Hours of Operation: Saturday and Sunday: 10:00am - 7:00pm, Monday - Friday: 3:30pm 7:00pm Find us on Facebook

Winterfest - Reindeer Games

December 1,2,8,10,15-24 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 A stage show with Santa’s team of reindeer, along with dancing Christmas trees and snowflakes greet Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

every trolley. Children can join the Penguin as he leads the karaoke Christmas chorus. Paul Morrell, master storyteller, will entertain with songs and stories. There is a letter writing corner for those important letters to Santa.

850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Winterfest - Performance Tours

December 1,2,8,10,15,16,17 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 The tour features 16 performances along a 60 minute trolley ride through downtown Pensacola. Singing guides accompany passengers into a world of wonder with scenes from your favorite holiday memories. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Christmas Tree FarmWhispering Pines Tree Farm

Through December 18 @ Milton 1603 Penton Road Milton, FL 32570 Virginia Pine, Florida Pine, Cedar, Frazier Fir and Leyland Cypress Christmas trees. Great family activities such as hay rides, photo props, Santa visits, movies nights, light displays and more! Open 10am - 5pm November 23 - December 18 with full service. After December 18 it is self service. 850-304-1559 info@floridachristmastree.com www.floridachristmastree.com/

The Wonderland of Lights Drive Thru Light Show

Through December 30 @ Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds 6655 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL 32526 Come see hundreds of Christmas displays in the comfort of your car. At the end of the light show, visit Santa’s Village for yummy holiday treats; visit with Santa; pony & camel rides and Bouncy House and the Christmas Carousel. Visit our website for our schedule.Sunday - Thursday 6pm to 9pm Friday & Saturday 6pm to 10pm 800-377-4625 nppshows@gmail.com www.Thewonderlandoflights.com

Fish River Christmas Tree Farm

Through December 23 @ Summerdale 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd E Summerdale, AL 36580 Fish River Trees is a choose & cut Christmas Tree

Farm. In addition to the trees they grow, they offer fresh-cut fir trees. They also specialize in producing container-grown Living Christmas Trees that can be decorated, then planted. Customers enjoy Santa, new Manger Scene with live animals, a free tour aboard their tree train, and a great atmosphere to enjoy a wonderful family Christmas tradition. Free visits with Santa on November 2426, December 2-3, December 9-10. Camel and pony rides are available for a small fee. Hours are 8am - 5pm. 251-988-8144 fishrivertrees@gulftel.com www.fishrivertrees.com/

Wales West Arctic Express ad on page 36

November 24 – December 24 @ Wales West Light Railway 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576 All aboard the Arctic Express at Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway. Great holiday fun for the whole family! Ride an authentic Steam Train through a wonderland of lights, snow, and decorations to the North Pole. Children visit with Santa in the Winter-wonderland barn and receive a free wooden toy. Our staff can take your family photo with Santa. Free Refreshments, Mini-Train Ride, Hayride, Playground, and Bounce House. In addition, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Snowball Cannon are available for a slight fee. Try our Cafe’s new menu options, and a Gift Shop full of train items ideal for Christmas presents! Hours: WEEKENDS: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 4 to 9 PM; Beginning Dec. 11, open NIGHTLY, 4 to 9 PM. Admission is $15/person, plus tax. 2 and under are free. Group rates, field trips, and parties can be booked in advance. Located on Co. Rd. 9 between Fairhope and Silverhill. For information call 888-569-5337 or go to www.waleswest.com. Experience the wonder! Register on website for coupons early in the season and tickets may now be purchased online. 888-569-5337

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home

November 24- December 31 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home is celebrating the 22nd year of Magic Christmas in Lights in 2017! Stroll through a dazzling display, with more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes

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throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. The Bellingrath Home is decorated in its holiday finery and open for evening tours. Magic Christmas in Lights includes choral performances on the South Terrace of the Home Sundays through Thursdays. Guests may purchase hot chocolate on Live Oak Plaza to warm the heart and soul. Santa will be on hand nightly for photos through Dec. 23, and the Magnolia Cafe’ will serve hot meals from 4 to 8 p.m. Magic Christmas in Lights is open daily from 5 to 9 p.m. with tours of the Bellingrath Home every hour and half hour until 8:30 p.m. 251-973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

Polar Express Pajama Party ad on page 32

November 25 - December 17 and December 23 @ National Naval Aviation Museum 1750 Radford Blvd. Suite C Pensacola, FL 32508 Enjoy a 3:00pm showing of the christmas classic The Polar express on the giant screen. Tickets are available in person at the museum ticket counter for $7 per person. 800-327-5002 www.navalaviationmuseum.org

The Christmas Carol

November 30, December 1, 2 @ Mattie Kelly Arts Center- Sprint Theater 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 The classic Charles Dickens tale takes a delightful twist in this original adaptation by NWF State College -- a drama that combines vibrant song & dance along with period costumes, to bring to life the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and the spirits of Christmas! Includes Victorian style desserts & beverages! 850-729-6000 www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

The Polar Express Storytime

December 1 @ Barnes & Noble 1200 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504 All aboard! Come in your PJs and join us for a magical evening as we host our annual Storytime of the beloved classic The Polar Express. Coloring and activities to follow. Time: 7:00 pm 850-969-9554

www.barnesandnoble.com

PMA Project Space Ornament Studio ad on page 31

December 1 - 23 @ Pensacola Museum of Art 407 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Create DIY reclaimed and recycled ornaments in our gallery maker space in conjunction with the exhibition Crossing Boundaries: Art and the Future of Energy. For more information, contact Education and Volunteer Coordinator Valerie Peacock. 850-432-6247 ext. 203 vpeacock1@uwf.edu

Sowell’s North Pole Christmas Light Display

December 1 - December 27 @ Milton 7650 Sowell Road Milton, FL 32570 Sowell’s North Pole Christmas Light Display is an annual Christmas light show put on by the Sowell family. We will be open every night including Christmas eve and Christmas night. The hours each night are 5:30 pm -9:00 pm. We are a drive thru display and the cost is $10 per car to get in. We also offer train rides for all ages at an additional charge of $2/person. Children 2 and under are Free to ride the train. We hope to see you all soon. 850-626-2746 Find us on Facebook

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The Nutcracker Pensacola Youth Ballet ad on page 42

December 1 & 2 @ Booker T. Washington Theatre 6000 College Parkway Pensacola, FL 32504 Pensacola Youth Ballet, a youth-focused training and performance ballet company under the direction of Michael Wardlaw, is proud to present the annual holiday tradition of, The Nutcracker! This beautifully choreographed and set spectacular will be held Friday and Saturday at 7pm. When you support Pensacola Youth Ballet’s performance, your dollars support multiple scholarships used to take our students across the nation for elite and professional ballet training with top choreographers and companies, such as Austin Ballet, Oklahoma City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Nashville Ballet, and Joffrey Ballet. Your patronage also supports other non-profit organizations, PYB partners with, who support and facilitate services for children in the Pensacola area. PYB has helped donate over $26,000 to these organizations in the last 4 years alone!! This years partner organization is Dixon School of the Arts. Support your community. Support the Arts. Support the children in your area by kicking off your holiday season with this delightful production of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Adult tickets are $30 Children 17 and under $20. Purchase your tickets through this link https://m.bpt.me/event/Michael/3104733 850-944-5650

Crafts Fair to celebrate the season and do some holiday shopping. Multiple vendors from woodcraft, candle makers, bake goods, and more. December 1 noon to 7pm & December 2 from 9am to 2:30pm.

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South Baldwin Community Theater “A Christmas Story”

Historic Pensacola Holiday Lantern Tours

3 decorated homes on Bayou Texar for $15.00; a christmas luncheon for $15.00, a Bazaar with dozens of unique vendors; and a bake sale with lots of home-made goodies.

December 1-3, 8-10 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Based on the humorous writings of author Jean Shepherd, this beloved holiday movie follows the wintry exploits of youngster Ralph Parker, who spends most of his time dodging a bully and dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, a “Red Ryder air rifle.” Frequently at odds with his cranky dad but comforted by his doting mother, Ralphie struggles to make it to Christmas Day with his glasses and his hopes intact. December 1, 2, 8 & 9 @ 7:30 pm. December 3 & 10 (Sunday) @ 2:00 pm 251-968-6721 info@sbct.biz www.sbct.biz

Holiday Faire

December 1, 2 @ First Presbyterian Church 5203 Elmira Street Milton, FL 32570 First Presbyterian Church of Milton is pleased to be hosting the Annual Holiday Faire! This event will be held December 1, 12 noon - 8pm and December 2, 9am - 3pm, and will feature feature handcrafted items, direct sales vendors, food, drinks, door prizes and crafts with Mrs. Santa! Treat yourself to a little fun while getting that holiday shopping done! 850-623-2510 www.fpcmilton.org

St. Christopher’s Christmas Caravan

December 1-2 @ St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church 3200 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503 Get in the Christmas spirit while raising funds for local charities. Caravan events include: a tour of

Winter Art & Craft Fair

December 1, 2 @ St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 6849 Oak Street Milton, FL 32570 Join St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Winter Arts and

ad on page 31

December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 @ Tivoli High House 205 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join us for our Holiday Lantern Tours on the evenings of December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16. The lantern tours, lead by living history interpreters dressed in Victorian finery, will include the Lavalle House, the Dorr House, and the Lear, Rocheblave House. Each house will be decorated for the holidays and participants will learn about holiday traditions of the past. Tours will leave from the Tivioli High House at 6:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Tickets for Opening Night on Friday, December 1 are $50 per person and include access to a hospitality room throughout the evening. Tickets for December 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 are $15 for adults and $8 for children younger than 12. Participation is limited to 25 people per tour. Space permitting, tickets may be purchased the night of the tour. Tours last an hour and are held rain-or-shine, with no refunds. 850-595-5985 ext. 111 www.historicpensacola.org

Big Screen on the Blackwater

December 1, 8, 15 @ Downtown Milton 5158 Willing Street Milton, FL 32570 December 1st (ELF), 8th (Frosty, Rudolph, & Charlie Brown), 15th (How the Grinch Stole Christmas & Mickey’s Christmas Carol). Free movies start at 6:30pm. Santa will arrive at 6:00pm on December

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FIELD TRIPS, PARTIES, AND GROUP RATES AVAILABLE WalesWest.com | 251-232-2322 | 13650 Smiley St. Silverhill, AL. 36576 Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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A Downtown Holiday 2017

December 2 @ Downtown Fort Walton Beach Fort Walton, FL 32547 The Downtown Fort Walton Beach Organization and the City of Fort Walton Beach are excited to present our 3rd Annual “A Downtown Holiday!” Located at the beautiful Fort Walton Beach Landing Park, this event is fun for the whole family with our Tree Lighting Event at 5:30pm, Christmas shopping and treats, live entertainment, kids activities, and much more! Stay tuned for updates, vendor registration, and a full schedule of events for the day! www.downtownfwb.com

Breakfast with Santa

December 2 @ Liberty Church Gulf Breeze Campus 6006 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Join Santa and his elves for a fun-filled family event including a pancake breakfast, elves, hot cocoa and the best part, pictures with Santa. Oh and did we mention it’s all Free! We’d love for your family to join us. 8:00am - 11:00am Find us on Facebook

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Storytime

December 2 @ Barnes & Noble 1200 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504 This classic, heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will grow even the coldest and smallest of hearts three sizes. Activities to follow. Time: 11:00 am 850-969-9554

www.barnesandnoble.com

Autism Pensacola: Holiday Party and Visit with Santa

December 2 @ Sensational Friends 3219 Maplewood Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Holiday Party and Pictures with Santa on Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. -- for those families who would like an opportunity to visit with Santa in a quieter atmosphere. The event will feature light refreshments, arts and crafts, and a quiet room for those who need a break from the party atmosphere. API is partnering with Sensational Friends to host the event at their location, 3219 Maplewood Dr., Gulf Breeze. Registration is encouraged by going to autismpensacola.org/events or calling the office, (850) 434-7171. www.autismpensacola.org

Choral Society of Pensacola Presents: Handel’s Messiah

December 2 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Welcome the holiday season with the Society’s annual performance of Handel’s masterpiece reflecting on the birth, death and resurrection of Christ, featuring the stirring “Hallelujah” Chorus. This year, the 60-voice chorus will be joined by soloists from Pensacola Opera’s Artists in Residence program, as well as the Choral Society Orchestra. First performed in 1741, Messiah holds a place as one of the best-known and most beloved works in the classical repertoire. It has played an important role in the history of the Choral Society, which grew out of a performance of selections at a meeting of the Music Study Club of Pensacola in 1935 and which has presented the work, at least in part, every year since. 850-595-3880 info@pensacolasaenger.com www.pensacolasaenger.com

Craft Fair- Navarre First Assembly of God

December 2 @ Navarre First Assembly of God 9594 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566 Come find those special and unique Christmas gifts. Craft Fair from 9am - 1pm. navarre1st@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Gulf Breeze Holiday Parade

December 2 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 The Gulf Breeze Holiday Parade is scheduled at 10am. The parade route will proceed down Shoreline Drive and end at First Baptist Church on McLane Street. Entry forms available at Gulf Breeze City Hall or the Gulf Breeze Area Chamber of Commerce. For additional questions, please call 850-932-7888. 850-932-7888 www.cityofgulfbreeze.com

Milton Christmas Parade

December 2 Highway 87 (Stewart Street) Milton, FL 32570 Rolls out of the Guy Thompson Community Center at 6pm. 850-623-2339 info@srcchamber.com

Navarre Christmas in the Park December 2 @ Navarre Park Navarre, FL 32566

850-939-3267 Find us on Facebook

Navarre Jingle Bell Run

December 2 @ Navarre Main Fire Station 8618 Esplanade Street Navarre, FL 32566 Family Event for all Ages. Non-competition. Race Start: Navarre Main Fire Station (behind

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McDonald’s), 8:00 am start, one hour course limit. Course: Run/Walk through the residential streets of the Town Center for a 5k (3.1 miles) or several shorter distances. Long sleeve t-shirts for the first 200 registrants. Participants are encouraged to dress up for the season. info@navarrechamberfoundation.org www.navarrechamberfoundation.org/jingle-bell.html

Winterfest- Santa’s Puppy Party

December 2 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Many children ask Santa for a puppy so he’s decided to bring the puppies to Winterfest. children will have an opportunity to pick a puppy courtesy of the Escambia County Animal Shelter. (1:00 - 4:00 p.m) 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Lighted Boat Parade

December 2 @ Pensacola Beach 7 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 4-6pm: Kid’s pre-show party, 6:30 pm – Lighted Boat Parade from Sabine Marina to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk - View parade procession in Little Sabine at 6:30pm. View from Quietwater Beach area at 7:30pm. Look for Santa on the lead boat! Fireworks with Santa- Soundside- 8pm 850-932-1500

start the Christmas season-all ages are welcome. 850-968-6006 office@gumc.gccoxmail.com

Surfing Santa Parade

December 3 @ Via de Luna to Casino Beach Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Thousands of children, parents and other spectators make their way to Pensacola Beach on Sunday to see Santa Claus making his way down Via De Luna Drive atop a Pensacola Beach fire truck at the annual Surfing Santa Beach Parade. Cat Country radio personality Brent Lane will be this year’s parade Grand Marshal. Starting at 2 p.m. from Avenida 10, the parade will make its way down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach and end at the Gulfside Pavilion, where kids will be able to meet and greet with Santa until 3 p.m www.visitpensacolabeach.com

FWB Christmas Parade

December 4 @ City of Fort Walton Public Beach Fort Walton, FL Join us at 6:30 p.m. as the City of Fort Walton Beach presents The Twelve Days of Christmas Parade! 850-833-9576 www.fwb.org

A Wrinkle in Time By Madeleine L’Engle, adapted by John Glore

December 2, 3 @ Gonzalez United Methodist Church 2026 Pauline Street Cantonment, FL 32533 Make coming to An Evening in Bethlehem at Gonzalez United Methodist Church a Christmas tradition for your family! Walk through the town of Bethlehem and get a glimpse of what life was like at the time of the birth of Christ. This is a great way to

December 7 -23 @ Emerald Coast Theatre Company 560 Grand Boulevard Miramar Beach, FL 32550 One of literature’s most enduring young heroines, Meg Murry, is back-stubbornness, braces, and all. Once again, she’s joining forces with Mrs. Whatsit, Charles Wallace, Calvin O’Keefe, and more to battle the forces of evil so she can rescue her father, save humanity and find herself. In the end, we know two things for sure: 1. Love can overcome evil and 2. There is such a thing as a tesseract.

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

An Evening in Bethlehem

Appropriate for ages 5 and up (no lap children please). Times: Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7:30 pm, Sunday: 2:00 pm, Saturday, December 23 at 2:00 pm. Sensory Sensitive Performances for Special Needs Families: December 16th at 2:00 pm. 850-684-0323 info@emeraldcoasttheatre.org www. emeraldcoasttheater.org

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops”

December 8 @ Mattie Kelly Arts Center- Main Hall 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 The Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra’s 31st season as the Emerald Coast’s premier professional orchestra continues at 7:30 pm in the Mainstage Theater of the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville with the popular annual “Holiday Pops” concert. 850-729-6000 www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Christmas on the Coast

December 8, 9, 10 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Presented by The Pensacola Children’s Chorus, celebrate the best time of the year. We will transform the sunny weather into a winter wonderland while experiencing all the sights and sounds of the season. 800-745-3000 www.pensacolachildrenschorus.com

Hall of Celebrities The Grinch with Santa and Frosty the Snowman ad on page 31

December 9 @ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 The Grinch and his friends Santa & Frosty the

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Billy Claus Visits Lulu’s! ad on page 5

December 9 @ LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Billy Claus Oh Billy Claus how we love you... Poor Billy is allergic to snow so what better place for him to come and celebrate the holidays but LuLu’s. Come enjoy as this delightful children’s book, written by none other than the talented Lucy Buffett. Enjoy a full day of arts & crafts, live music and get your picture taken with Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s. Make sure to leave Billy your Christmas list so that he can personally deliver it to his brother (you may have heard of him) Santa Claus. What a better way to kick off the holiday season than a day here with all of your friends and family at LuLu’s. 251-967-LULU (5858) info@lulubuffett.com www.LuluBuffett.com

Breakfast with Santa

December 9 @ St. Mark United Methodist Church 2203 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503 Join us from 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. for fun and fellowship. We will eat breakfast together, make crafts, and meet Santa. All ages are welcome. Admission is $2 per person or $10 per family. Proceeds will go to our children’s ministry outreach. 850-432-7777 stmarkpensacola@outlook.com www.stmarkpensacola.com

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Big Golden Book Storytime

December 9 @ Barnes & Noble 1200 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504 Join us as we follow Olaf, Anna, Kristoff, and Elsa through a frozen adventure to find the best holiday traditions. Activities to follow. Time: 11:00 am 850-969-9554

www.barnesandnoble.com

Boat Parade Activities at The Wharf

December 9 @ The Wharf Orange Beach, AL Want a front row seat for all the illuminated action? The Wharf is the place to be! Watch as boats, large and small, glide through the Intracoastal Waterway in all their festive glory. Head down early to avoid traffic and grab a bite to eat or catch up on some holiday shopping. There will be plenty of fun activities for the kiddos as well. Make it a family affair and join us! Time: 5:30pm – 8:30pm

251-224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com/calendar/2017/12/A8D0265758~Lighted+Boat+Parade.htm

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

December 9 @ Downtown Pensacola Pensacola, FL Come join the fun beginning at 5:15pm. You will not want to miss this event that draws over 50,000 people each year, including nearly 90 entries, and eight bands from Escambia County, New Orleans and Mississippi. The parade also features the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from around the region. lew@coxpensacolachristmasparade.org www.coxpensacolachristmasparade.org

Seabreeze Presents Norman Brown Joyous Christmas

December 9 @ Mattie Kelly Arts Center- Main Hall 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 Seabreeze Radio (Smooth Jazz 106.6) presents Norman Brown’s Joyous Christmas with Bobby Caldwell and Marion Meadows, presented by Resort Quest and Wyndham Vacation Rentals at 7:30 pm in the Mainstage Theater of the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville. Tickets are $80 and $40 for this Guest Event and are available exclusively through the Arts Center’s Box Office. 850-729-6000 www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

Santa Drop

December 9 @ The Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Kick-off the Christmas season with the annual Santa Drop. See Santa skydive onto the beach followed by photo opportunities. Enjoy kids’ arts and crafts in the Flora-Bama tent. Santa drop begins at 12 noon. 850-492-0611 info@florabama.com

Kids Club ad on page 35

December 14 @ Chick-fil-A Gulf Breeze 310 Gulf Breeze Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Tis the season for giving. This month, Chick-fil-A Gulf Breeze Kids Club is celebrating Generosity. Join us for a night of crafting handmade presents for the people we love. Kids Club hours are 5pm 7pm. 850-932-5400 gulfbreezecfa@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

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breakfast, crafts and have your picture taken with Santa Cow and Elf Cow.

850-932-5400 gulfbreezecfa@ gmail.com www.cfarestaurant.com/gulfbreeze

Santa’s Little Helper

ad on Inside Back Cover

Lighted Boat Parade

Story Tyme- Christmas Comes to Florida ad on page 31

December 15 @ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join Grandma Jenkins for cookies and the story “Christmas Comes to Florida” at the Pensacola Children’s Museum’s Party Central on Friday, December 15 at 11 a.m. Story Tyme is a free program sponsored by the UWF Historic Trust. For more information, contact Educator Jim McMillen. 850-595-5985 x112 jmcmillen@uwf.edu

Ballet Pensacola Presents: The Nutcracker

December 15 - 17 @ Saenger Theatre 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502 Experience the magic of the beloved holiday classic The Nutcracker. 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com

Zoo Lights 2017 ad on Back Cover

December 15 - 30 @ Gulf Breeze Zoo Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Breeze Zoo at night as you admire thousands of sparkling holiday lights! Ice sculpting, Santa nights and other special events vary throughout the month. www.gbzoo.com

Arcadia Kids Crafts ad on page 31

December 16 @ Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site 5709 Mill Pond Lane Milton, FL 32583 Join us for a free kids craft from 11am to 2 p.m. in the Arcadia Mill Classroom. Children will make Popsicle Stick Snowflakes. All materials are provided and each activity is estimated to be completed in 30 minutes. All participants must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or adult. For more information, contact educator Krystal Johnson. 850-626-3084 x102 kjohnson3@uwf.edu

Breakfast with Santa Cow ad on page 35

December 16 @ Chick-fil-A Gulf Breeze 310 Gulf Breeze Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Join Santa Cow and Elf Cow from 8am - 10am for Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

December 16 @ Woodland Heights Resource Center 111 Berkley Drive Pensacola, FL 32503 Join us for an afternoon filled with music, holiday crafts and ornament making, gift wrapping and a visit from Santa. Free event from 11 am - 1 pm. 850-435-1750 www.playpensacola.com

Breakfast with Santa

December 16 @ Crabs on the Beach 6 Casino Beach Boardwalk Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Santa is making his way back to Pensacola Beach to join us at Crabs for Breakfast! Adults, Kids, people of all ages can come join the fun! Complimentary Hot Cocoa and Cookies will be served for all. Breakfast includes Eggs, Bacon, and Pancakes. This year we will be adding an Ornament Making Craft area for the kids. Our helpful elves will make sure you leave with the perfect ornament for you to hang on your tree. Breakfast, picture with Santa, and take home ornament will all be included for $12.99. 850-932-0700 www.crabswegotem.com

Films on the Field- Elf

December 16 @ Gulf Breeze Community Center 800 Shoreline Drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Popcorn, Soda and Candy at concession. Blankets, Lawn chairs and picnic baskets welcome. Free Admission.

850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezerecreationcenter.com/ upcoming-events/

River Rose and the Magical Christmas Storytime December 16 @ Barnes & Noble 1200 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504 Activities to follow. Time: 11:00 am 850-969-9554

www.barnesandnoble.com

Winter Wonder Ride

December 16 @ Seville Square 399 South Alcaniz Street Pensacola, FL 32502 It’s that time again! Bikes Pensacola is proud to announce it’s 2nd Annual Winter Wonder Ride. Join us this December for our second annual scenic slow ride from Seville Square through beautiful downtown Pensacola before returning to Seville Square, where you and your friends can enjoy our post Ride celebration featuring music, games, thirst quenching beverages and tasty food trucks! Proceeds raised are used to purchase new bikes and helmets for children in need in the Northwest Florida area. Time: 12:00 pm onbikespensacola@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Jingle Bell Beach Christmas Musical

December 17 @ Marcus Pointe Baptist Church 6205 North W Street Pensacola, FL 32514 Marcus Pointe Baptist Church presents the 2017 Kidz Praize Musical, Jingle Bell Beach! Join us for this fun night at 6 PM. Come celebrate the Christmas season with the kids of Marcus Pointe! 850-479-8337 info@marcuspointebaptist.org www.PensacolaChurch.org

Winterfest - Letter’s to Santa/ Visit Santa

December 17 - 24 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Santa’s favorite letter writer will be awarded the first gift of Christmas at the “Santa Sendoff” on December 24. https://pensacolawinterfest.org/ photos-with-santa 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Gulf Breeze Zoo: Santa Nights ad on Back Cover

December 17, 21, 23 @ Gulf Breeze Zoo Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Santa is coming to the Zoo for 3 nights and you don’t want to miss it! Enjoy taking pictures with Santa and some very special animal friends. Santa will also be accepting those last minute Christmas letters and special requests from your little ones. www.gbzoo.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

December 18-22 Two locations - Vickrey Resource Center, 2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32502 850-912-4056 Woodland Heights Resource Center, 111 Berkley Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503 850-435-1750 Ages 5 - 12 from 7:00am to 6:00pm www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

December 18-22, 27-30, January 2 Ages 5 - 12 from 7:00am to 6:00pm Two locations: E.S. Cobb Resource Center, 601 East Mallory Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 850-436-5192 Fricker Resourse Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola, 32501 850-436-5195 www.playpensacola.com

Holiday Ice Skating

December 18 - 28 @ Pensacola Bay Center 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Come out and bring your friends and family to enjoy ice skating while you are entertained by holiday music. 850-432-0800 www.pensaolabaycenter.com

Winterfest - Polar Express Tour (mini tour) December 18-24 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 The trolley departs on a Polar Express journey with a reading from the book. Children may dress in pajamas. The best dressed boy and girl on each trip will receive 2 free tickets for the Grinch Tour. Everyone receives a bell and cup of hot chocolate. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www.pensacolawinterfest.org

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Winterfest -Grinch Tour (mini tour)

December 18-24 @ Downtown Pensacola 226 East Intendencia Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Mayor Matthew leads the trolley tour. The Cat in the Hat and the Things will entertain, along with Cindy Lou and the Grinch. The trolley travels to the home of the Who’s where the famous crooked Christmas tree decorates a special corner at the accounting firm of Brown, Thornton & Pacenta. 850-583-1365 info@pensacolawinterfest.org www. pensacolawinterfest.org

Holiday Camp at Pensacola Mess Hall

December 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 @ Pensacola Mess hall 116 North Tarragona Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Looking for something fun for the kids in grades 1-6 while you take care of other things over the break? Our holiday camps let them dive into a variety of cool activities, all hands-on! Choose from a 3 hour morning camp or add extended time for the afternoon as well. Each half day of camp is $25. Pre-registration required. 877-937-6377 info@pensacolamesshall.org www.pensacolamesshall.org

Santa Pet Photo Night at Cordova Mall

December 19 @ Cordova Mall 5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504 Sit, stay and pose for a photo with Santa as Cordova Mall presents Pet Photo Night with Santa. Santa will be waiting at the Center Court and welcomes all fur babies to come for a visit. Pet Photo Night is from 6-8pm and registration is encouraged by going to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pet- photo-nighttickets-37943771843 Photo prices vary; please see Santa Set for more details. 850-477-7562

PMA Victorian Christmas Workshops ad on page 31

December 19 - 23 @ Pensacola Museum of Art 407 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Historic Pensacola Village at 10:30 -12:30 p.m. and Pensacola Museum of Art at 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. Free for Historic Trust and Pensacola Museum of Art members; $5/day per workshop for non-members. Registration/Tickets available at historicpensacola.org and Pensacolamuseum.org. Appropriate for all ages. Kids welcome! All sessions are open for two hours. Projects estimated to be completed within 30 minutes. December 19th at 10:30 a.m. Museum of Commerce - Victorian Wrapping Paper: tied in with printmaking demo at 2:30. Add a personal touch this season and create your own wrapping paper. Try your hand at inspired Victorian techniques of printing and marbling, or design your own. Then at 2:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art Victorian Christmas crackers...Christmas Crackersnaps are an important part of Victorian holiday parcels. Create your own personalized crackersnaps to add to your own holiday traditions. Victorian Christmas Workshop--December 20th 10:30 a.m. Museum of Commerce - Victorian Christmas Ornaments...The art of ornament making with Victorian cornucopias to decorate and add to your tree this season. 2:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art - Victorian Cardmaking...Did you know many Christmas traditions started in the Victorian era-including Christmas cards! Come and create your own unique and Victorian Christmas cards to give to family and friends. Victorian Christmas Workshop: December 21st 10:30 a.m. Museum of Commerce - Story and a Holiday Craft...Enjoy a Christmas Storytime and Art making as we will be reading The Night Before

Christmas by Rachel Isadora, Dream Snow by Eric Carle and The Legend of the Poinsettia by Tomie de Paoloa. 2:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art Victorian Christmas Ornaments...The art of ornament making with Victorian cornucopias to decorate and add to your tree this season. Victorian Christmas Workshop December 22nd 10:30 a.m. Museum of Commerce - Victorian Cardmaking... Come and create your own unique and Victorian Christmas cards to give to family and friends. 2:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art - Victorian Wrapping Paper...Add a personal touch this season and create your own wrapping paper. Victorian Christmas Workshop: December 23rd 10:30 a.m. Museum of Commerce - Victorian Christmas Crackers...Create your own personalized crackersnaps to add to your own holiday traditions. 2:30 p.m. Pensacola Museum of Art - Story and a Holiday Craft 850-432-6247 ext. 203 vpeacock1@uwf.edu

Pensacola Children’s Museum Paying It Forward ad on page 31

December 22, 23, 27-30 @ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 The Pensacola Children’s Museum is paying it forward. Join us from 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. to show your support for children affected by our recent hurricanes. Guests will make paper smiles or cards of support and the UWF Historic Trust will collect and send these positive well wishes to Children’s Museums in the affected areas. This is a free program for the whole family. For more information, contact Educator Jim McMillen 850-595-5985 x112 jmcmillen@uwf.edu

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Santa’s Magic Key Storytime

December 23 @ Barnes & Noble 1200 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504 Activities to follow. Time: 11:00 am 850-969-9554

www.barnesandnoble.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

December 27-30, January 2 @ Gull Point Resource Center 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504 Ages 5 - 12 from 7:00am to 6:00pm 850-494-7360 www.playpensacola.com

Make it to the Line 4-Mile Run/Walk & 1-Mile Fun Run

December 30 @ The Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507 Run, jog, walk or crawl to the line at our 4-mile run/walk and 1-mile fun run. Individuals and families up to three members can compete. A portion of the proceeds from this race will benefit the Secret Santa program. 850-492-0611 info@florabama.com

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration! ad on page 5

December 31 @ Lulu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 32542 Join us for a day of fun as we drop the beach ball at our annual Noon Year’s celebration! Noon Year’s is a FREE family event for all ages to enjoy. We will have kid friendly “fireworks,” a massive beach ball drop when the clock strikes NOON, and more! 251-967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Gatsby Girls 4th Annual Speakeasy Ball & Charity Event

December 31 @ Museum of Commerce 201 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Benefitting the Gulf Coast Kid’s House. Gulf Coast Kid’s House is a children’s advocacy center serving Pensacola and Escambia county. GatsbyGirlsVP@gmail.com www.kreweofgatsbygirls.com

New Year’s Eve Firework Display

December 31 @ Pensacola Beach Boardwalk Pensacola, FL 32561 At 8 p.m. a dazzling light display, provided by the beach chamber, will take place overlooking the Santa Rosa Sound from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Don’t miss the show. 850-438-4015

Reelin’ In The New Year at The Wharf

December 31 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Fireworks and Marlin Drop at midnight! Kids activities begin at 5:00 pm. Live music starts at 6:00 pm. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

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Polar Bear Plunge PERFORMING ARTS

Excellence in Arts Education Dec. 1 &2 @ 7PM Booker T. Washington High School

For tickets and information please call

DANCE

THEATER

MUSIC

VISUAL ARTS

944-5650 labelleperformingarts.com * 8253 Chellie Rd.

Off I-10 Exit 7, Next to Sonny’s BBQ off Pine Forest Rd.

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

January 1 @ Pensacola Beach/Santa Rosa Sound Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 Hosted by Paradise Bar & Grill, hundreds of dippers and spectators – many dressed in costume - flock to the beach to participate in this long-established tradition. Registration begins at noon and the fee is $15 per person. Cub Club participants – those in fifth-grade or younger – can register for $5. Participants will receive a Polar Bear Plunge t-shirt. All proceeds go to the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce. 850-438-4015 GPP

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8 Ways Tech Can Bring Your Family Closer This Holiday Soon holiday music will fill the air—punctuated by the rings and dings of smartphones. Regardless of their traditions, lots of families will be making rules about when NOT to use cellphones—during midnight mass, at the Kwanzaa dinner table, while lighting Hannakuh candles, and so on. Most parents can agree that it’s a good idea to set aside part of the holidays to focus entirely on the people who have been able to gather in the same room. At the same time, it’s also helpful to remember all the ways technology can bring families closer, especially at this time of year. Young people, in particular, filter much of their experience through their phones, so turning off the phone for extended periods of time may actually make them feel less connected. Integrating the capabilities of technology into the holiday has several benefits. First, it allows richer contact with distant family and friends. Second, it can simplify holiday chores from party planning to greeting cards. And, finally, it gives tech-savvy kids a meaningful role in making the holidays special whether by documenting every dish at the holiday feast or playing DJ during a family party. Here are just a few of the ways technology can enhance your holidays. Whenever possible, use the simplest apps so as many people as possible can participate.

Plan Parties. Does your neighborhood do an annual caroling party? Would you like to get friends together for a cookie exchange? Do you want family members to take charge of a dish for the family feast? Using an app like Party Planner will help you manage the details from inviting guests and tracking responses to delegating tasks and keeping a grip on the budget. Entering necessary information the first year may take a little time, but it lays the groundwork for effortless traditions in years ahead.

Send Greetings. Even though fewer families have time for handwritten cards or newsletters, the tradition of sharing holiday greetings is worth preserving. Use your phone to take a photo or make a short video that captures what’s unique about your family this year. Do something goofy, sing a few lines of a song together, have each family member write or speak about something memorable. Distribute through social media, email or even in an envelope. Do this every year and you’ll create a very special timeline that shows your kids growing up before your eyes. Start a Family Media Channel. Establish a blog or a social media group, and limit access to extended family and special friends. Invite kids, cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents to participate, providing whatever support they need to get connected. Encourage everyone to post inside jokes, recipes, holiday memories, bits of family lore. To make people more comfortable about sharing things that are heartfelt or silly, establish a simple rule: What appears on the site can’t be shared anywhere else without permission. Tune Up. Build a festive family playlist for the holidays and other occasions. Ask everyone old enough to talk to make suggestions. Of course, there are holiday playlists available on sites like Pandora but it’s a lot more meaningful—and fun—to juxtapose grandma’s favorites from the 40’s with something your nephew learned in preschool. Chat Long Distance. Coming home for the holidays may be everyone’s dream but it’s not always feasible. Schedule a time for a video chat with distant loved ones. Group 43

chats can sometimes be awkward so encourage family members to take turns. Do a little coaching so kids are prepared to thank relatives for gifts and maybe even model clothes or demonstrate what they can do with a new toy. Light candles or sing together. Ask questions that prompt elders to share memories and stories.

Group Text. If video chatting makes everyone (especially teens) self conscious, try using GroupMe, a free app that allows everyone in the family to see the same text messages. GroupMe works with SMS and every Smartphone platform. Give it a try in your immediate family, and then expand the group to include cousins and other relatives. Play Games. Ask pre-teens for the best family friendly games or find apps that simulate classics like Scrabble and Checkers. Help grandparents sign up so they can play across the room or across the country. If someone in the family is lucky enough to get a video game system, be sure at least one game is easy enough and light-hearted enough to be played by all ages. Consider creating customized games for your family. For example, try making up a scavenger hunt that involves taking photos connected with family traditions—a beloved family ornament, a sleeping relative, Grandpa’s favorite cookie, the dog wearing a holiday hat. Collect Photos. On special occasions, everyone takes photos and videos on their own phones. Even if someone says, “Send me that picture,” people forget and fragments of the holiday disappear into the undifferentiated photos on various devices. This year, set up a password protected site on Flckr, Instagram or even Google. Send the link to everyone in the family. Ask them to upload their favorite photos and videos to a create a collective album. Embracing these possibilities with an open heart makes it more likely that everyone will respond well at the times when someone says, “Let’s put away our phones and drink in the joy of being together right here, right now!” Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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ents. The high school years are meant to be a preparation to launch them from home out into the world. Bear in mind that entire books have been written to help adults recover from the behavior of their misguided parents, who unconsciously clipped their wings because they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cope with the uncomfortable feelings that come with letting go. Your goal is to stay alert as you bravely prepare for a separation that is inevitable.

IF you feel weepy and clingy about the physical distance that will arise between you and your future young adult, you will set her up for feelings of guilt and obligation that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t serve her as she forges her own path in the world. Teens need incremental independence and appreciate your assistance getting used to the consequences of their choices. If you coddle your teen, do all her thinking for her, intercede in the face of every life challenge, swiftly grant every whim, and then abruptly withdraw your assistance after college, your child is bound to struggle.

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

DON’T set your child up for a big fall, especially if you

Create A Say Anything Space Don’t shy away from serious topics with your teen. Drugs, alcohol, date rape, sexual assault, gender identity, sexual preference, and birth control are just a few topics that need to be faced squarely and discussed openly with your teen before he leaves home. One way to broach these topics might be to watch and discuss topical films together that you wouldn’t necessarily share with younger children. The key here is to establish an open door of communication through which no topics are off-limits. If this makes you squeamish, it’s time to deal with uncomfortable topics whether you like them or not. Enlist your spouse’s ear to get your concerns off your chest first and share the responsibility of holding challenging discussions. Everyone in the family will likely become more accepting, mature, and open-minded thanks to your willingness to open up.

have well-behaved or reticent teen, skilled at avoiding parent upset and disappointment. A rebellious or strong-minded teen will be less concerned about hurting parent feelings and can make choices that please him more easily. But teens of any disposition need support and encouragement to make a smooth transition from the safe haven of home into self-reliance. Besides, there are ways to keep teens close to your heart while gently encouraging the independence that will help them grow the wings they will need to soar out into a world full of happy life choices.

Illuminate Paths To Earning Most teens like money. Money means, among other things, freedom to a teenager. Modern money skills include exploring the possible ways to earn as well as the savvy ways to save, spend, and invest. If you find you spend a lot of time discussing managing money, maybe it’s time to educate yourself on current paths to earning. Try to keep your fearful assumptions about possible career paths in check. If your teen is an artist, explore the plethora of online earning opportunities that exist today. If your teen enjoys physical movement, research the jobs that allow her to be on her feet rather than sitting behind a desk. And try not to obsess about future job security. Get a career counselor involved to help your teen explore jobs that maximize her natural talents and curiosities.

Discuss Relationship Wisdom Intimacy with another person requires a strong sense of individuality. Encourage your teen to see all relationships as learning opportunities. Use high school social situations as opportunities to discuss what she needs and wants in various types of relationships, to consider what attracts and repels her, and to explore which groups feel the most comfortable. Peer pressure is strong in high school, so if you don’t ask these questions, your teen’s self-awareness may not increase. Conversations about the role of relationships encourage self-knowledge, which can lead to happier connections in the long run. When it comes

A Sunday player’s last Saturday. for fans, the game lasts all week long

Catch great game-week events like the Senior Bowl Experience, Coca-Cola Meet the Players and the Piggly Wiggly Tailgate Party. Get game-week details, tickets and more at seniorbowl.com.

january 27 - mobile, alabama - Ladd-peebl e s stadi um Tickets on sale now at Seniorbowl . com Tailgate Party passes available now with purchase of game ticket at area Piggly Wiggly stores.

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to creating lasting relationships with others, self-awareness is paramount. Therefore don’t place too much emphasis on finding “the one” or being part of the popular crowd. Your acceptance of the needs and wants of your teen will go a long way towards her future happiness.

could decide whether or not they will attend a family commitment like religious services or not. If your teen does not wish to join in, let her experience what it’s like to abstain. Then, if she decides to come back around you will know it’s because she wants to rather than because she must. And if she does not wish to participate right now, it’s your job to get used to the idea. Your teen will grow up and make her own choices in the future, anyway. If this is a hard truth for you to swallow, perhaps you need to start practicing relinquishing pressure now.

Interrupt Anxiety With Spontaneity Making the leap from home into the big wide world is a major life transition that can trigger worry. A helpful technique for any parent to learn to help break the cycle of negative thinking is anxiety interruption. When you notice the tight shoulders or the snappy disposition, why not suggest a little walk or drive or maybe even a spontaneous shopping trip. This may seem like a strange parenting habit but what you are helping your teen do is break the cycle of stress before it starts affecting the decision-making process. Focusing constantly on the problems at hand blocks spontaneous solutions from bubbling up. So when your teen is struggling with what feels like a big decision, teach him how to move away from stress, let go of anxious thinking, and shift focus until clear thinking returns. Sometimes the easiest way to have a breakthrough is by getting into a calmer, more receptive state of mind.

Emphasize Ways To Decompress Anticipate alone-time shortages, especially during the emotionally intense graduation year. Then strive to instill self-reflection, self-care, and self-expression, so these habits will be there to comfort your teen in the future. Writing, drawing, biking, and knitting all induce a state of creative flow. As the departure date to leave home approaches, you may notice teens are more absorbed with friends and social activities than interested in spending time alone. But moments of quality down time are when people connect with inner guidance and are crucial to leading a healthy, well-rounded life. And remember, if you want your teen to discover and follow his bliss, you are going to have to set a good example. Your hobbies will come in handy, as you both cope with the natural feelings of grief that are sure to arise as you and your teen prepare to part on happy terms. GPP

Reconsider Ultimatums Let your teen decide where he stands on family traditions and rituals. “As long as you are living in this house, you will go to church every Sunday along with the entire family,” is one possible approach. But another way is to establish a cut-off date for family obligations. Perhaps after the age of 16 your children

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz is readying herself for the inevitable day she has to say goodbye to her teen. But, like many parents, she can’t say she’s looking forward to it.

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FamilyCalendar Saturday, November 25

Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). Providing local goods, including produce, baked breads, canned preserves, cooked meats and even wood-fired pizza. Ghost Hunt at Pensacola Lighthouse Museum 8-9:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.pensacolalighthouse.org/ or call (850) 393-1561. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Sportz Center 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. Children 4 and under must have adult supervision. Parents can drop older children off for only $20 per child for supervised play. Admission covers pizza and drinks also. Parents are welcome to stay and play for free if they choose. Open to the public; no membership required. Call (850) 733-3547 or e-mail info@mojosportz.com. Free Beginner and Intermediate Ukulele Class 9:30-11 a.m. Blues Angel Music, 657 N. Pace Blvd., Pensacola. Our free beginner ukulele classes are designed to get you familiarized with the ukulele, including parts of the ukulele, how to hold it, how to tune it, basic chord shapes, basic strumming patterns and chord changes for your first song! The intermediate class focuses on learning songs and playing while singing along. For more info, call (850) 457-7557. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art, and antiques are just a few of the items offered by vendors at Palafox Market in Downtown Pensacola. Items originate directly from onsite vendors who grow, make, or create the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and art for sale. For more info, visit www.palafoxmarket.com. Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Ice Flyers vs. Huntsville Havoc. 201 E. Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, call (850) 432-0800.

Everything is Mama Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Jimmy Fallon is back with a follow-up to his best-selling picture book Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA. His new book, Everything is Mama, is a lighthearted look at the world from a baby’s point of view, as different animals try to teach their children that there are other words in addition to mama. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/ store/2926 for more info. Winterfest Continues Create unforgettable Christmas memories during the month-long Winterfest celebration in Downtown Pensacola amid the glow of more than 400,000 dazzling white lights. Talk with Santa, play Reindeer Games, and ride the Winterfest Trolley along a two-mile route that loops historic Seville Square and Palafox Street as The Grinch, Elvis, Charlie Brown and other entertainers pop aboard the trolley and mingle with passengers. Through December 24. For more info, visit http://pensacolawinterfest.org.

Sunday, November 26

Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Bring your family, bring your pets! 1.5 mile walk with 12 trivia questions will be posted. Ballots are $2 each and all proceeds are donated to the Community Center After School Program and local animal shelters. For more info, call Cissi at (850) 393-4605. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. The service always draws a large

and friendly crowd. Visit http://www.centralonline.tv/ flora-bama/.

Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, call (850) 432-0800.

Tuesday, November 28

St. Christopher’s Caravan Arts & Crafts Show 9 a.m.-4 p.m. St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 3200 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola. Looking for some unique hand-crafted holiday presents? With more than 40 vendors, St. Christopher’s is the place to find something truly unique. Proceeds from the event will be donated to local charities. For more info, call (314) 496-7699 or visit https://www.scpen.org/caravan.html.

Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. Stories, songs and movement designed to build future readers! For more info, call (850) 453-7780.

Polar Express Storytime at Barnes and Noble 7 p.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. All aboard! Come in your PJs and join us for a magical evening as we host our annual Storytime of the beloved classic. Coloring and activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Fresh produce to local Lonestar Kitchen to jewelry and soaps. Come support local artists. For more info, visit www.facebook.com/pg/ gbfarmersmarket/ or call (850) 867-7263.

Thursday, November 30

Pickleball at PAC! 6-8 p.m. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. Looking to try something fun and competitive? Join us for a pick-up game of Pickleball. Spare paddles are limited, so please BYOP. Members play free and guests play for only $3. For more info, call Max at (850) 453-1534 or visit www.pacactive.com.

Preschool Art Time - Paper Shape Art 10-11 a.m. First and third Fridays for ages 3-5 years old.

For many more events, please check out our Holiday Happenings Guide on page 34!

49th Annual Snowball Derby Five Flags Speedway, 7451 Pine Forest Road, Pensacola. Five Flags Speedway has evolved into the largest short track stock car race in the USA. Drawing drivers from California to Maine and Canada, in 7 classes of competition on a banked half mile paved oval. Camping at nearby fairgrounds with free daily shuttles. Several hotels nearby. Events through December 3. For more info, call (850) 944-8400 or visit http://5flagsspeedway. com/.

Friday, December 1

The Pensacola Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting Meets the 1st Friday of every month at the Gulf Coast Kid’s House from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com.

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida. This spirited retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic pushes the fantastical elements of the beloved holiday story into the spotlight. A chorus of ghosts dance and carol their way in and out of this timeless tale of redemption, magic and hope as Ebenezer Scrooge learns to embrace true holiday spirit. Ticket prices are $18 for adults, $14 for senior citizens and active military, $12 per for non-UWF students and UWF faculty and staff, and $6 for high school students. UWF students are admitted free with their Nautilus cards. Tickets can be purchased at the CFPA Box Office, Building 82, (850) 857-6285 or online at uwf.edu/cfpa. Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Ice Flyers Vs. Macon. 201 E.

Introduce your littlest artists to the world of art through fun and engaging projects. Artists will manipulate a variety of materials, and practice their fine motor skills while encouraging their creative explorations. Remember, always dress for a mess! Cost: $5/members and $8/ non-members, per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum.org/ or call (850) 432-6247.

Saturday, December 2

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida. For details, see December 1 listing. St. Christopher’s Caravan Arts & Crafts Show 9 a.m.-4 p.m. St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 3200 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola. For details, see December 1 listing. Annual Holiday Bead Show 9 a.m.-5 p.m. First United Methodist Church, The Wright Place, 80 East Wright Street, Pensacola. You will find unique, one-of-a-kind items hand-crafted by the members of Emerald Coast Bead Society. Jewelry, batik clothing macrame items, soft-sculpture dolls, lampwork beads, findings, gemstones and other wonderful things are available. For more info, call (850) 982-7633. Cordova Mall Presents First Disney Jr. Family Programming Event World Market Entrance from 1-3 p.m. Featuring Disney Jr.’s Puppy Dog Pals, free activities, face painting, adoptable puppies from the Humane Society, music, refreshments and more.

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FamilyCalendar Lighted Boat Parade on Pensacola Beach 6:30-9:30 p.m. The Lighted Boat Parade on Pensacola Beach boasts some of the most beautiful and bright ocean vessels in the Gulf. View parade procession at Sabine Marina at 6:30 p.m. View from Quietwater Beach area at 7-7:30 p.m. Look for Santa on the lead boat! Fireworks with Santa Soundside at 8 p.m. For more info, call (850) 932-1500 or visit www.facebook.com/ events/1460450667375553. Sand Dollar Saturday & Local Marketplace 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 1900 Hwy. 87, Navarre. Sand Dollar Plaza’s monthly celebration and outdoor marketplace. Come by and shop the great deals and have a bite to eat. Don’t forget to register for our fabulous monthly door prize. E-mail sanddollarsaturday@gmail.com, call (850) 3689500 or visit www.facebook.com/sanddollarsaturdays. Merry Marketplace Retail & Business Expo 1-7 p.m. Versailles Event Center, 1504 W. Intendencia St., Pensacola. The Greater Pensacola Chamber is kicking off the holiday shopping season with this event that showcases the area’s boutiques, shops and organizations. The public is invited to shop for unique and personalized gifts, learn more about area organizations, take selfies with Santa, and socialize at the Gingerbread Cafe. This event is free admission with the donation of one non-perishable food item. Become a vendor! Contact Caitlin Okrzesik at (850) 438-4081 for a vendor application or visit http://pensacolachamber.com/events/ merry-marketplace/ for more info. Santa’s Puppy Party 1- 4 p.m. Escambia County Government Building Plaza, 223 South Palafox Place, Pensacola. Many children ask Santa for a puppy, so he’s decided to bring the puppies to Winterfest. Children will have the opportunity to pick a puppy courtesy of the Escambia County Animal Shelter. Fore more info, call (850) 583-1365. Choral Society of Pensacola Presents: Handel’s Messiah 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Saenger Theatre. Welcome the holiday season with the Society’s annual performance of Handel’s masterpiece reflecting on the birth, death and resurrection of Christ, featuring the stirring “Hallelujah” Chorus. This year, the 60-voice chorus will be joined by soloists from Pensacola Opera’s Artists in Residence program, as well as the Choral Society Orchestra. For tickets or more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Pensacola International Airport Runway Run 5K Join us for a new look at the airport & to run down the runway. All registered participants receive an event Tshirt and bib with timing. Proceeds benefit the USO. For more info, visit www.werunwild.com. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see November 25 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Sportz Center 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see November 25 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see November 25 listing.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. This classic, heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will grow even the coldest and smallest of hearts three sizes. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Thursday, December 7

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Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see November 26 listing.

RadioLive Concert Series 5 p.m. Museum of Commerce, 201 East Zaragoza Street. WUWF’s popular monthly acoustic concert series, RadioLive, returns to Historic Pensacola. The scheduled performers are Grace Pettis, John Common & Jess Denicola, and Patchouli. Tickets are $10 and available in advance at radiolive.org or at the door on the day of the show. Doors open at 5 p.m.; show starts promptly at 6 p.m. For more info, visit wuwf.org/radiolive.

Surfing Santa Beach Parade on Pensacola Beach 2-4:30 p.m. Thousands of children, parents and other spectators make their way to Pensacola Beach to see Santa Claus making his way down Via De Luna Drive atop a Pensacola Beach fire truck at the annual Surfing Santa Beach Parade. Starting at 2 p.m. from Avenida 10, the parade will make its way down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach and end at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more info, visit http://visitpensacolabeach. com/whats-happening-calendar/.

Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Broken furniture legs, old computers, and candle holders. Teens explore the art of repurposing utilitarian objects in objects d’art. Use unconventional techniques and objects to create whimsical sculptures. All supplies are provided and all levels are welcome to join us for our bi-weekly Teen Art Studio. Ages: 14-18 years old. Cost: $10/members and $15/non-members, per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum.org/ or call (850) 432-6247.

Symphonic Band Holiday Concert 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida, 11000 University Pkwy Bldg. 82, Pensacola. This year’s presentation of the annual favorite concert will feature some very original variations on standard Christmas carols. Richard Glaze directs the Symphonic Band. Olivia Hawkins will be featured as student conductor. This event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. For more info or to reserve tickets, please contact the CFPA Box Office at (850) 857-6285 or visit http://uwf.edu/cfpa/.

Pickleball at PAC! 6-8 p.m. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. For details, see November 30 listing.

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Friday, December 8

Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Ice Flyers, 201 E. Gregory St. Ice Flyers vs. Knoxville Ice Bears. For more info, call (850) 432-0800.

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Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents: Christmas on the Coast 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Saenger Theatre. One of Northwest Florida’s most popular events and a family tradition for more than 25 years, Christmas on the Coast presents many of our community’s most delightful and engaging performers, ages 8-18.  Chorus members are set to dazzle audiences with a holiday extravaganza featuring the best of seasonal music, dynamic choreography, dazzling costumes and imaginative staging Christmas on the Coast shimmers and sparkles with the sounds and sights of this beautiful time of year. For tickets or more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880.

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Saturday, December 9

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida. For details, see December 1 listing.

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Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents: Christmas on the Coast 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Saenger Theatre. For details, see December 8 listing.

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The Long Run - Eagles Tribute 7 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. Tickets $65. For more info, call (850) 607-6758 or visit https://www.vividseats.com/concerts/.

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Bay Bluffs & Chimney Park Cleanups 9 -10 a.m. Come join the Pensacola Scenic Highway Foundation, Earth Ethics and Ocean Hour for a two-location clean-up on Scenic Highway the second Saturday of every month. Location one is Bay Bluffs Park on Scenic Highway at Summit Blvd. Second location is two miles north at Chimney Park on Scenic Highway at Langley Ave. Buckets, grabbers, gloves and trash bags

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Sunday, December 3

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas 2:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida. For details, see December 1 listing. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see November 26 listing.

Tuesday, December 5

Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see November 28 listing. Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see November 28 listing. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Children ages 3-5 are invited to do arts & crafts, make a snack and have story time. The classes are creative and have an organic, environmental and local twist. Price: Complimentary. Call (850) 4335353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Free. Funky Flow is a creative hour with fun postures and music, combining yin and yang postures. Please wear comfortable clothing. All you need is yourself, a mat if you have one and an open mind. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http:// everman.org/.

Wednesday, December 6

Chamber Music Recital Noon-1:30 p.m. The University of West Florida Department of Music will present an afternoon of chamber music at Old Christ Church in Historic Pensacola, located at 405 South Adams St. This month celebrates the season with merry melodies of Bach, Handel, Mozart, Grieg and others. The program also includes traditional Christmas music. Free and open to the public with no tickets required. For more info, call (850) 474-2147 or visit http://uwf.edu/cfpa/.

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas 7:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida. For details, see December 1 listing.

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FamilyCalendar supplied. Sign-in at 8:45. Please dress for the weather and bring water, bug spray and sunscreen as needed. E-mail oceanhourfl@gmail.com or BayBluffsCleanUp@ gmail.com; visit www.facebook.com/oceanhourfl or www.oceanhourfl.com. Or call (850) 207-9326 and leave a message. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see November 25 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Sportz Center 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see November 25 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see November 25 listing. Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 7:05 p.m. 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola Ice Flyers vs. Knoxville Ice Bears. For more info, call (850) 432-0800.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Big Golden Book Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Join us as we follow Olaf, Anna, Kristoff and Elsa through a frozen adventure to find the best holiday traditions. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores. barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, December 10

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas 2:30 p.m. Center for Fine and Performing Arts, University of West Florida. For details, see December 1 listing. Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents: Christmas on the Coast 2:30 p.m. Pensacola Saenger Theatre. For details, see December 8 listing. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see November 26 listing. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see November 26 listing.

Tuesday, December 12

Weight-Loss Surgery Support Group 5:30-6:30 p.m. Baptist Tower 3, Ground Floor Baptist Weight-Loss Center, 1717 North E Street. For more info, call (850) 437-8746. Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see November 28 listing.

foundations begun in Sprouts with emphasis on chapter books. Lessons are geared for 4- to 7-year-olds, but siblings under 10 are welcome to join and participate as they like! Cost: complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/.

Thursday, December 14

Pickleball at PAC! 6-8 p.m. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. For details, see November 30 listing.

Friday, December 15

Gallery Night 5-9 p.m. Stroll through the charming brick walkways of downtown Pensacola to experience an eclectic array of local music, art and cuisine. Gallery Night is a free event and many businesses provide light refreshments. Visit downtownpensacola.com/ or call (850) 434-5371. Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Ice Flyers, 201 E. Gregory St. Ice Flyers vs. Evansville Thunderbolts. For more info, call (850) 432-0800. High School All-Star Football Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium. Since its creation with the inaugural football game in 2004, more than 1,300 of the finest athletes from Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties have showcased their skills for college scouts, family and classmates and built friendships with former on-field rivals. For more info, visit http://pensacolasports.org/subwayhsas/. The Pure Led Zeppelin Experience 7 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. Tickets begin at $20. It’s an explosive rock ‘n’ roll event, augmented by a full laser light production. From “Dazed and Confused” and “Ramble On” to “Over the Hills and Far Away” and “Kashmir,” The Pure Zeppelin Experience is the musical, physical and spiritual manifestation of the great Led Zeppelin, for our times. 100% of ticketing profits go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Association For more info, call (772) 263-0963 or visit https://www. vinylmusichall.com/. Ballet Pensacola’s The Nutcracker 7 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place. Follow the adventures of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle the Mouse King and embark on a journey through the Land of the Sweets with the guidance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. A holiday classic, perfect for the entire family! Music by Pytor Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Original Choreography by Richard Steinert. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com.

Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see December 5 listing.

The Gulf Breeze Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting Meets the 3rd Friday of every month at the Hampton Inn & Suites from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join us for this time of non-traditional networking and education. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com.

Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see December 5 listing.

Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see November 25 listing.

Wednesday, December 13

Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Sportz Center 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see November 25 listing.

Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see November 28 listing.

Story Seedlings 2:45-4 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Story Seedlings builds on the

Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see November 25 listing.

Saturday, December 16

Films on the Field at Gulf Breeze Community Center 800 Shoreline Dr. Today’s movie is Elf. Bounce house and concession stand available. Free admission. Blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets welcome. For more info, find us on Facebook or call (850) 934-5140. Ballet Pensacola’s The Nutcracker 7 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place. For details, see December 15 listing. UWF Winter 2017 Commencement Ceremonies Pensacola Bay Center. Morning Ceremony @ 10 a.m. for College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (CASSH) and College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS). Afternoon Ceremony @ 1 p.m. for College of Business (COB), Usha Kundu, MD College of Health (UKCOH) and Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering (HMCSE). Evening Ceremony @ 5 p.m. for Graduate School. For more info, visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/. Auditons for Pensacola Children’s Chorus Grades 3-8 9 a.m.-noon. For more info, call Mr. Gartner at (850) 434-7760 ext. 5 or visit https://www.pensacolachildrenschorus.com/auditions. Wreaths Across America at Barrancas National Cemetery  9 a.m. Volunteers will reverently place memorial wreaths on gravesites of veterans and their spouses at Barrancas National Cemetery onboard NAS Pensacola. Individual and organizational volunteers and sponsors can learn more at www.barrancaswreaths.com. Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony Noon-12:30 p.m.The Jacksonian Guard is a Pensacola re-enactment group of Jacksonian era and Spanish soldiers, fifers, and drummers who perform a Colors Ceremony every third Saturday, in Plaza Ferdinand, on Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. The ceremony commemorates Pensacola’s 195th Birthday & Florida as a U.S. Territory. For more info, call (850) 466-5220. Project Greenshores & Bartram Park Cleanup 9-10 a.m. Wayside Park West. Come join Ocean Hour’s clean up at Project Greenshores, also know as Wayside Park West, the third Saturday of every month. Project Greenshores is at the Three Mile Bridge on Bayfront Parkway, 745 Bayfront Parkway. Buckets, grabbers, gloves and trash bags will be supplied. Sign-in at 8:45. The second location is Bartram Park located at 211 Bayfront Parkway, Pensacola (Behind the Fish House). E-mail: oceanhourfl@gmail.com; visit www.facebook. com/oceanhourfl or www.oceanhourfl.com. Or call (850) 450-1112 and leave a message. Pensacola 2nd Annual Winter Wonder Ride Noon-4 p.m. 311 E Government St, Pensacola. Pull out your Christmas gear and hop on your bike! Tickets are available at onbikespensacola.org for $35 and proceeds from this event go towards purchasing bikes, helmets and locks for underprivileged and foster children in the Greater Pensacola area. Following the Slow Ride around downtown Pensacola, Old Seville Square will be filled with live music, food, drinks, games and more! For more info, call (850) 485-1889.

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FamilyCalendar

FamilyCalendar Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see November 25 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Sportz Center 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see November 25 listing.

County Extension hosts this educational series the 3rd Thursday of every month. The series will explore local topics such as climate change, stormwater pollution, bats, and more. Each session is free to the public. For more info, contact Carrie at ctsteven@ufl.edu or call (850) 475-5230. Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Students will explore a broad range of media, artistic styles, and participate in guided gallery talks and critiques in the studio. For details, see December 7 listing.

Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see November 25 listing.

River Rose and the Magical Christmas Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. It’s Christmas Eve and River Rose wants to stay up all night to hand-deliver a note to Santa, but she and her dog fall asleep only to find they’ve been swept off on another magical adventure. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/ store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, December 17

Pensacola State College Graduation Ceremony 3 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center. Learn more about applying to graduate, attire, ceremony protocol, invitations, guests, and parking at www.pensacolastate.edu/currentstudents/graduation/. Ballet Pensacola’s The Nutcracker 1:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place. For details, see December 15 listing. Auditons for Pensacola Children’s Chorus Grades 9-12 1-2 p.m. For more info, call Mr. Gartner at (850) 4347760 ext. 5 or visit https://www.pensacolachildrenschorus.com/auditions.

Tuesday, December 19

Wednesday, December 20

Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place. It’s “CSI: Bethlehem” in this holiday mystery extravaganza, from the author of Late Nite Catechism, as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages - whatever happened to the Magi’s gold? (“We know that Mary used the frankincense and myrrh as a sort of potpourri - they were in a barn after all.”) Retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can, this hilarious holiday production is bound to become a yearly classic. For more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www. pensacolasaenger.com/.

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017

Thursday, December 28

Pickleball at PAC! 6-8 p.m. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. For details, see November 30 listing.

Saturday, December 30

Pickleball at PAC! 6-8 p.m. Pensacola Athletic Center, 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola. For details, see November 30 listing.

Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see November 25 listing.

Veterans’ Meeting 4-6:30 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. These free monthly meetings focus on veteran services in our community. Call Evelyn Coleman at (850) 543-2258 or visit http://everman.org/.

Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 7:05 p.m. Pensacola Ice Flyers, 201 E. Gregory St. Ice Flyers vs. Macon Mayhem. For more info, call (850) 432-0800.

Friday, December 22

Rumours - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Doors open at 7 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 South Palafox Street, Pensacola. All ages. Attendees under 16 must be accompanied by a ticketed, adult guardian. For more info, call (850) 607-6758.

Saturday, December 23

Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see November 25 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Sportz Center 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see November 25 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see November 25 listing.

Santa’s Magic Key Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. In this unforgettable holiday story, a boy realizes on Christmas Eve that his new house does not have a chimney. With the post office closed and Santa coming by the end of the night, he has no way of telling Santa. But when the boy finds a mysterious key, he’ll soon discover just how this key will solve his problem. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble. com/store/2926 for more info.

Tuesday, December 26

Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see November 28 listing. Ice Hockey at Pensacola Bay Center 6:35 p.m. Pensacola Ice Flyers, 201 E. Gregory St. Ice Flyers vs. Mississippi RiverKings. For more info, call (850) 432-0800.

Thursday, December 21

Science Hour 6-7:30 p.m. Escambia County Central Office Complex, 3363 West Park Place, Pensacola. UF/IFAS Escambia

Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see November 28 listing.

Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community

The Wildflowers -A Tribute To Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Doors open at 7 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 South Palafox Street, Pensacola. All ages. Attendees under 16 must be accompanied by a ticketed, adult guardian. For more info, call (850) 607-6758.

The Story of Ferdinand Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. All the other bulls love to run and jump and butt their heads together, but not Ferdinand. He would rather sit and smell the flowers. Then one day he is picked for the bullfights in Madrid. Join us to find out how Ferdinand fares in this classic story, in theaters now. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble. com/store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, December 31

New Year’s Eve Fireworks on Pensacola Beach 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Celebrate all of 2017 and the new beginnings of 2018! First show at 8 p.m., then again at midnight for the ball drop! The first is a family-friendly affair taking place over the Santa Rosa Sound from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. The second fireworks show officially rings in the new year at midnight over the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier. Multiple Pensacola Beach clubs and restaurants host New Year parties so take your pick of a celebration on Pensacola Beach. Downtown Pensacola New Year’s Eve Bash Pensacola Pelican Drop is a legendary New Year’s Eve celebration that takes place in historic downtown Pensacola. The pelican is illuminated at 8 p.m., and events continue past the New Year! A free event unique to the Gulf Coast. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents: Celebrate the New Year! 7 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place, Pensacola. Enjoy a swing, soul and blues-inspired performance celebrating the music of Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles and other timeless vocalists to kick off the new year! Join us for this early evening performance, and still have time to go to dinner, stop by a party or join the celebration downtown. New subscribers save 50% on tickets. Subscriptions are available at www.pensacolasymphony.com/. Reelin’ in the New Year at The Wharf 5 p.m.-midnight. Main Street and Marlin Circle street party at Orange Beach. DJ entertainment and kids’ activities from 5-7 p.m.; Live Oak Band from 6-9 p.m.;

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Creativity Band from 9 p.m.-midnight; Marlin Drop and fireworks at midnight. Admission is FREE; various kids’ activities range $5-$10. For more info, visit http:// alwharf.com.

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Monday, January 1

Polar Bear Plunge at Flora-Bama Noon. Great laughs, fun for the whole family! The Flora-Bama Lounge on the Florida-Alabama state line on Perdido Key hosts this popular annual splash in the Gulf of Mexico. Afterwards, everyone joins in a southern tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day and warms up with good music and beverages. For more info, call (850) 492-6838. Polar Bear Plunge at Paradise Bar & Grill Registration begins at noon; plunge is at 2 p.m. 21 Via de Luna, Pensacola Beach. Live music. For more info, call (850) 916-5087.

Saturday, January 6

Black Jacket Symphony Presents Tom Petty’s Damn the Torpedoes 8 p.m. Saenger Theatre. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. A selected album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked. For tickets or more info, call (850) 595-3880 or visit www.pensacolasaenger.com.

Support Groups Cancer

Gulf Coast Wings of Hope, Inc. Support Group Supporting families of children with blood disorders and cancer. Anyone with a friend or family member who has been stricken with a form of childhood cancer or blood disorder is welcome. All meetings will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in Conference Room A of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. More details can be found at www. wingsofhopeinc.org. Patient and Family Cancer Support Group Pensacola Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays (but only Dec. 12 this month), from 4-5:30 p.m. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Suite 233, 1717 North E St., Avery Street Entrance. For more info, call (850) 469-7372. Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets 2nd Thursdays, from 5-6:30 p.m. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Suite 233, 1717 North E St., Avery Street Entrance. For more info, call (850) 4697372.

Prostate Cancer Self Help Group This group sponsored by the American Cancer Society is designed to educate and support men facing prostate cancer. Meets the first Saturday of the month at Sacred Heart Hospital, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Call (850) 438-4491.

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Sacred Heart Cancer Center Sacred Heart provides emotional support and education for cancer patients and their families through a variety of support groups. For more info, visit the Cancer Center Support Groups website or call (850) 416-2679.

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Grief Support

GriefShare The Sacred Heart Palliative Care department provides a free, 13-week Grief Support Group for adults who have lost a loved one. The meetings are in the Palliative Care department, located in Suite 201 of the Bayou Tower on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. The public may use the free valet parking at the hospital’s Bayou Tower entrance, which faces Bayou Blvd. For class dates and times and for registration information, call Kerri Riggs, LCSW, at (850) 416-7705. Grief Support Group for Adults Sacred Heart Hospital provides this free group for adults who have lost a loved one. For future classes and registration information please call (850) 416-7705. Grief Support at Baptist Health Care Next group meets 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays, Sept. 26 through Oct. 31. For more info, call (850) 469-7197.

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s Support Group West Florida Hospital - West Florida Rehab - Community Rooms A & B, 8383 North Davis Highway, Pensacola. For meeting dates and times, call (850) 494-3212 or visit https:// westfloridahospital.secure.ehc. com/calendar/index.dot. Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) Support Group Next meeting is December 11 @ 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Ever’man’s in the community education room. Complimentary. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America offers a local support group where patients, family members, and caregivers can connect to others living with these digestive diseases in order to discuss the latest in research, offer educational resources, seek emotional support, exchange disease management tips, and enjoy a sense of solidarity with people in the community who also suffer from inflammatory bowel disease. For more info, visit http://everman.org/event/ ccfa-the-crohns-and-colitis-foundation-of-americasupport-group/. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group West Florida Hospital - West Florida Rehab - Community Rooms A & B, 8383 North Davis Highway, Pensacola. Refreshments will be served. Usually held second Fridays, 1-2 p.m. To verify meeting dates and times, call (850) 494-3212 or visit https://westfloridahospital.secure.ehc. com/calendar/index.dot.

Parent Support

Baptist Mommy & Me Play Group Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Free support group for moms with babies up to six months old. Next meetings are Thursdays, December 7 & 21 from 10 a.m. to noon. For more info, call (850) 434-4567. La Leche League Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Our mission is to help mothers breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother. Free. Next meeting will be held December 7, from 10 a.m.-noon.For more info, call

(850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/ event/la-leche-league-9/. LEAPS New Mom Support Group Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. LEAPS (Love, Encouragement, and Postpartum Support) is a self-care support group focused on helping moms connect and engage in activities that promote balance, stress management, and overall wellness. Guest speakers and self-care activities will be provided and are free of cost. Pre-crawling babies welcome. Free. Next meetings will be held December 6 and 16, from 10-11:30 a.m. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/event/leaps-new-momsupport-group-3/. Mommy & Me Support Group The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon in Classroom C/D of Sacred Heart Hospital, located at 5151 N. Ninth Ave. in Pensacola. This free support group provides mothers with an opportunity to share experiences, gain support and develop friendships. A lactation consultant from the Sacred Heart Maternity & Women’s Center will be present to answer questions and offer advice. Baby weight checks are offered at each meeting. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required for each class session. For more info about this class or your parenting experience, please call The Nesting Place Women’s Boutique at 850-4166378 (NEST) or visit www.sacred-heart.org/childbirth. Pensacola Parents of Multiples Meets the second Thursday of every other month at Sacred Heart Women’s and Children’s Hospital Meeting Room C/D down the hallway next to the cafeteria. We normally have a family holiday dinner in December. Parking is available in the 9th Avenue Parking garage and in the lot in front of The Children’s Hospital. If you are expecting or already blessed with multiples, you are encouraged to get free, helpful information. We offer a support network, social activities for children and parents, library and more. For more info, visit pensacolamultiples. com or call (850) 449-4208.

Special Needs

Children With Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) Support Group For families of children with attention deficit disorders. To find a local group, please visit www.chadd.org/.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

Please send your calendar events to editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com. www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

Justice League

Coco

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: CSexual Content: B+ Profanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Justice League PG-13 for sci-fi violence and action. Since the credits rolled on Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, the Caped Crusader has softened, even if he still isn’t sure of his deceased colleague’s motives. However, the time for mourning quickly concludes when yet another antagonist shows up on the blue planet. Following the comic genre template, an extended backstory sequence explains Steppenwolf (Ciarán Hinds). He is this episode’s villain, and one who initiated a huge battle on Earth many years ago. Fortunately he was sent packing, but neglected to take his baggage with him: three glowing “Mother Boxes” that, if placed together, will destroy the world... maybe even the universe. He discovers one of the boxes is stashed on the island of Themyscira, also the home of Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot). His violent visit, joined by a swarm of CGI flying somethings, motivates WW aka Diana Prince to team up with Batman to send the prehistoric predator on his way once more. The pair also recruit to their cause Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash. Teen audiences wanting to see these DC Comic conquerors duke it out will enjoy the many battle sequences of these titans, though there is little blood or gore. Perhaps the most disappointing issue with this film is a subtle decision in the wardrobe department. Wonder Woman is already the singular member of the Justice League to be stuck going to work in awkward swimwear. Parents may want to take this opportunity to illustrate the entrainment industry’s incessant need to continually define women as “eye candy”.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Coco PG for thematic elements. Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) comes from a cursed family. It all began when his great-great-grandfather decided to pursue a career as a songwriter and abandoned his wife Imelda and their young daughter Coco. She banned her descendants from having anything to do with music. Even though that was four generations ago, Miguel is still suffering the effects of her edict. Then comes Dia de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead. While his parents, Abuelita (grandmother) and great grandmother Coco are preparing for the celebration that honors deceased ancestors, the twelve-year-old attempts to sneak out with the hope of entering a talent contest being held in the town square. But everyone’s plans are disrupted when the stringed instrument is destroyed. The unfortunate incident does have one fortunate result – it provides a clue to Miguel’s heritage. Armed with this information, the boy breaks into the mausoleum of Ernesto De La Cruz to steal his famous guitar that is on display there. Although his intentions are just to show his closed-minded relatives that they should let him play music, the theft has unexpected and supernatural results. Much of the story takes place in Land of the Dead which may be frightening for young viewers, especially when much of the comedy comes from literal portrayals of characters losing their heads, dropping their jaws, or having their eyes pop out. Along with these somewhat ghoulish images, the plot features a dark villain with murderous intentions. Despite this, Coco offers a heartwarming tale best shared with older children rather than the little tikes.

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MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated The Star PG for some thematic elements. The Star portrays the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ through colorful animation with a good dose of artistic flexibility... meaning the tale starts with a talking rodent. Abby (voice of Kristin Chenoweth) is our “mouse on the wall” that allows us to meet young Mary (voice of Gina Rodriguez) when she is visited by an angel. When the young woman is told she will give birth to the Son of God, Mary is more than willing to accept the assignment. Fortunately, within the context of this movie, everyone demonstrates great faith in Mary’s announcement, including her chosen man. His biggest concern is capacity live up to the responsibilities of being the father of Jesus. That’s when the next heavenly communication takes place, giving Joseph the assurance he’s up to the task. Definitely created to keep the attention of children, The Star’s main attraction is Bo the donkey (voice of Steven Yeun). Desperate to escape his servitude for a miller’, which means walking in circles to grind grain, Bo’s greatest desire is to provide transportation to a king. Although the biblical story’s sequence of events is somewhat shuffled and the Good Book’s narrative didn’t include three “wise” cracking camels (voices of Tracy Morgan, Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey) or other supportive farm animals, the spirit of the occasion still shines through. And that may make this movie a worthwhile reminder of the “reason for the season”.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: B+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Wonder PG for thematic elements including bullying, and some mild language. It’s as plain as the nose on your face that Auggie Pullman (played by Jacob Tremblay) is no ordinary ten-year-old. Born with a genetic defect (that is never clearly identified in the film), the boy has undergone 27 surgeries in his short life and still has a face only a mother could love. Consequently, the youngster has been sheltered from the outside world and home schooled – until now. Auggie’s mother (Julia Roberts) has decided that he should attend a real institution as he begins the first year of middle school. She logics that most of the other students will be new too, so it should ease the transition. Despite all the pep talks, and the support of his father (Owen Wilson) and sister Via (Izabela Vidovic), the whole family is secretly quite concerned about how Auggie’s facial deformities will be seen by his peers. Much of this movie follows the quiet child as he tries to establish himself in a new environment that is less hospitable than the walls of his of own home. Watching Aggie navigate the challenges of his situation would provide enough material for a good plot, yet this thoughtful script (which is based on a novel by R.J. Palacio) takes the story into unexpected territory by examining the feelings of jealousy, neglect and isolation as the perspectives of his sister and other friends are shared. In a subtle way, it exposes the fact that we all carry scars – even if they aren’t as visible as the nose on Auggie’s face. And it demonstrates the power that’s unleashed when ordinary people doing kind things.

Greater Pensacola Parents I December 2017