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FEBRUARY â€˜19

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THE

PENSACON ISSUE

Iconic Voices Epic Cosplays

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Downtown Crowd / February 2019

Editor’s Letter

Publisher Malcolm Ballinger Owners Malcolm & Glenys Ballinger Executive Editor Kelly Oden Editor Will Isern

contents

6 A Convention Not So Far Away 8 Rob Paulsen: The Voice of Pinky

10 Diane Pershing: Poison Ivy 12 Siren Here!: Cosplay on Display 14 Beginners Guide to Pensacon 19 Album Reviews 21 Calendar Cover: Members of the 501st Legion, an all-volunteer, fan based costuming group photographed by Bara’ah Jaraiseh

WILL ISERN EDITOR When Pensacon began in 2013, few could have imagined it would grow in to what it’s become. Did you know more than 25,000 people attended last year’s event? Organizers say they’re expecting nearly 35,000 this year. And Shatner is coming. Shatner!

attending this year’s event. Something that both of them mentioned was how the “con” culture is accepting of all kinds of people who may otherwise be relegated to the fringes of society. I think we’re well past the point of pop culture fandom being the mark of so-called My point is that clearly there was a geeks, weirdos and social outcasts big market waiting for an event like (just look at the onslaught of super Pensacon and that we’re fortunate hero films and Star Wars spin-offs), to have it here. The economic debut certainly events like Pensacon velopment folks say the event has draw more than just your gardenbeen responsible for more than variety sci-fi fan. $10 million in economic activity since it began. That’s a lot of galac- But Pensacola has long had a tic credits! nerdy scene. I can remember going in the late 90s to buy Dragon I know the Bay Center is bursting at Ball Z cards at TBS Comics. There the seems with the number of peowas always a healthy crowd around ple that now attend, and that somea table playing some form of nerdy one is going to have to find (build) board game. And I know I remema solution if we want Pensacon ber seeing LARPers in the park on to continue to flourish, but one 17th Avenue near the Graffiti Bridge. of the best things to come out of those constraints is how the event And perhaps that’s why Pensacon has spread to venues throughout has been such a success. The downtown. There’s just something crowds have been here all along, about a Harry Potter or a Storm just waiting for an event like PenTrooper waiting at a crosswalk or sacon to gather together and celwalking down Palafox Street that ebrate their fandom. Pensacola I enjoy. It gives downtown a bit of has always been nerdy. Let’s keep character. it that way. As you’ll see later in this issue, I had the opportunity to interview a pair of celebrity guests that will be

Art Director Guy Stevens Graphic Designer Bara’ah Jaraiseh Editorial Assistant Kaitlyn Peacock Contributing Writer Matt Hanimov Advertising Account Executives Paula Rode Paula@ballingerpublishing.com Geneva Strange Geneva@ballingerpublishing.com Deadline for space and information is the 15th of the month prior to publication. For advertising rates or news tips contact Phone: 433-1166 · Fax: 435-9174 DOWNTOWN CROWD is published by Ballinger Publishing. Offices located at 314 N Spring St., Ste. A, Pensacola Florida 32501 Published by Ballinger Publishing

Downtown Crowd is locally owned and operated. It is published monthly for distribution in Pensacola, Florida. All Right Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/ or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing. © 2019

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A WORD FROM THE DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENT BOARD Parking, Pensacon and Lots of Love in Downtown Pensacola The DIB First City Lights Festival may be over, but February is still looking very bright for the Downtown Pensacola community. We’re excited to announce the official launch of the new Passport Parking app, available to download from the App Store and Google Play. With this app, you can pay with your phone, receive parking session alerts and add time remotely (with no additional transaction fees!) You can also use any pay station or parking meter to pay to park at DIBmanaged lots, on-street parking and the Jefferson St. Garage. Look for the trusted teal Passport Parking sign to find DIB parking and your parking zone and be sure to have your tag number handy so you can pay and be on your way! Now here are some reasons why you should park in Downtown Pensacola. February might as well be a monthlong Valentine’s Day celebration with the vibrant array of activities and events. So Gourmet is hosting six cooking classes this month for you to improve your skills and impress that special someone. Alternatively, you can leave the cooking to the professionals with the Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dinner at Pot Roast & Pinot and a special Valentine’s Dinner at Jackson’s Steakhouse. We also have a full lineup of date night ideas including incredible talent at Pensacola Opera’s “Some Enchanted Valentine” and Pensacola Children’s Chorus’ “One World, Many Voices” at the Saenger

4 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Theatre to live performances at the Vinyl Music Hall from The Magpie Salute and Matt and Kim. Even a simple sunset stroll around Palafox Pier provides the perfect romantic setting for your next date night. Looking for that perfect gift? We’ve got you covered. Check out the thoughtful cards at Rusted Arrow Mercantile, heartshaped charms at Susan Campbell Jewelry, tasty macarons at Bluejay’s Bakery, fresh flowers at Fioré and much, much more. If your New Year’s resolution was to live long and prosper, you may find yourself beaming over to the Pensacola Bay Center on Feb. 22-24. Pensacon strikes back for a threeday celebration featuring celebrity panels, photo ops and hundreds of recognizable characters from film, TV and comics. William Shatner of “Star Trek”, former skateboard pro Bam Margera and Kevin Sorbo of “Hercules” are just few of the dozens of confirmed celebrity guests. With official venues for Pensacon including the Pensacola Bay Center, Grand Hotel, Saenger Theatre, Pensacola Little Theatre and The REX Theatre, there’s plenty to experience downtown. The official schedule of events can be found on the Pensacon website or mobile app. Make sure you follow us on social media as we’ll also be posting photos and updates during the event. We look forward to seeing you downtown during this exciting month!

PASSPORT PARKING APP! HOW TO USE THE APP Download the app Find a sign for Passport Parking Pay from your phone You can also use any pay machine or parking meter to pay to park at DIB-managed lots, on-street parking and the Jefferson Street Garage.

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BY KAITLYN PEACOCK PHOTOS BY BARA’AH JARAISEH

February may conjure up images of sweet valentines, but for Pensacola February means crowds of cosplayers, hanging out with celebrities, revamped menus at your favorite restaurants and a whole heck of a lot of fun. That’s right, it’s time for Pensacon.

Pensacon promises to be bigger and better than last year, and with the expansion of Poseidon’s Bay behind the Pensacola Bay Center, the inclusion of Gallery Night Feb. 22 during the convention, bigger guest celebrities and much more, it’s shaping up to be just that. Kat Bishop, director of marketing and guest services for Pensacon, said they expect around 35,000 attendees at Pensacon this year, continuing its upward growth year over year.

If you’ve been in Pensacola for any amount of time, you know that Pensacon is one of the biggest events hosted in the city, having earned a place in league with the Blue Angels air shows and the Foo Foo Fest. But why is that? Well, according to Bishop, it’s because Pensacola really gets into the spirit of Pensacon, with the renaming of the Pensacola International Airport to the Pensacola Intergalactic Airport during the convention, bars and restaurants featur-

ing geek-themed menus and decorations, a special Gallery Night and an entire city preparing for a weekend of nonstop events at some of the major venues around town, including the Pensacola Bay Center, the Saenger, the Rex and Pensacola Little theatres and the Pensacola Grande Hotel. “It’s an amazing, fun spectacle that you don’t get to see in many cities,” Bishop said. “A lot of cons, you go the con, you pay money to see the

Jim Norton, director of Pensacola Cinema Art

6 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

“

We’re really passionate about giving back to the Pensacola community, because the community has done so much for us.That’s why we raise money for Manna, for United Way, for Pensacola Children’s Chorus, for Pensacola Little Theatre. We want to make a difference in our community.” - Kat Bishop

people, you stand in line, you get their autograph, then maybe go to a panel, then you leave. There’s no involvement from the town or the community. That’s what makes Pensacon stand out both to our attendees and to the celebrities because it’s just a different feel.” It’s this “different feel” that helps Pensacon get the volume and quality of guests that visit the convention every year. The guest roster this year include more than 100 actors, artists and authors, with the likes of William Shatner, Peter Davison, Kevin Conroy, Paige O’Hara and many more expected to attend. It seems Pensacola’s little convention has a reputation that proceeds it, with Bishop explaining that many guests ask to attend the convention, rather than having an invitation sent out to them. “The reason we have so many guests is because celebrities and agents are constantly asking to come to Pensacon,” she said. “They have heard about Pensacon through word of mouth from other celebrities. From the beginning we tried to make sure that every guest felt welcomed, with Southern hospitality. We take really good

care of them at the con and they really like that. But they also really, really love the community involvement. From the moment they land at the airport and see the “Pensacola Intergalactic Airport” with all the signs changed and the prop displays in there, they are immersed in Pensacon, and the entire city appears to be embracing the con and welcoming these people to our city, happy to have them here. It just starts it off on a good foot.” Bishop also said that the team at Pensacon realizes just how lucky they are to have a community that supports them as much as Pensacola does. To help give back to the community, Pensacon last year had a charity livestream on Twitch that ran during the convention which raised donations for the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. Between the livestream during Pensacon and another charity event at a sister convention, $22,000 was raised for the hospital in 2018. This year, Pensacon will host another charity livestream during the convention that will again raise money for the Children’s Hospital. The stream will include some Twitch personalities as hosts, including GernaderJake, GSXRClyde and others. There will also be a charity auction Feb. 24 at the Bay Center, where attendees will be able to bid on special collectors items, including banners signed by Pensacon guests from this year and last year.

“We’re really passionate about giving back to the Pensacola community, because the community has done so much for us,” she said. “That’s why we raise money for Manna, for United Way, for Pensacola Children’s Chorus, for Pensacola Little Theatre. We want to make a difference in our community, so we do our best to use our platform for good and to get more attention for them.” If anything could be said about Pensacon, it’s that it’s almost too popular. A complaint often heard by attendees is that the crowds are hard to navigate, especially when it comes to celebrity signings and the Pensacola Bay Center. This year, to help alleviate some of the crowds, Pensacon will have a large stage for performances behind the Pensacola Bay Center, in Poseidon’s Bay, and more events will be offered throughout downtown Pensacola to help disperse the crowds throughout the city. There will also be a new ticketing schedule for some of the largest celebrity signings, where attendees will be given a ticket with a number. Attendees will be able to go through the convention while waiting for their number to be called for the signing. Still, Bishop suggested attendees give plenty of time for events they really want to go to, as some events have a limited number of seats and added safety measures around the venues will require more time to get into the building. Even if the crowds are a little hectic, most people who attend Pensacon agree, it’s the best place to be in Pensacola.

“Ninety-nine percent of attendees had a good time and said they would return, according to the surveyors that Visit Pensacola has come out and survey attendees,” Bishop said. “Obviously that’s just a sampling of the population but you find that stands to reason it’s pretty true. “At the end of the day, that’s what’s most important,” Bishop continued. “That’s why we lose sleep and, you know, our sanity, so we can provide something for everybody to enjoy.” If you’re new to Pensacon, and even if you aren’t new, the biggest advice Bishop offered is to stay hydrated during the convention and to wear good, comfortable shoes. Pensacon spans across a large portion of downtown, and February can be hot with the Florida springtime not far off. Bring a refillable water bottle, especially if you are planning to cosplay, and find your best kicks for the weekend. Bishop also recommended downloading the Pensacon app, which will have a convention schedule, guest information, trolley stops and more. Looking for a list of guests and all the goings-on at Pensacon this year? Visit Pensacon.com for all that and more, and stay up to date on cancellations or schedule changes as convention weekend approaches.

DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 7

GUEST INTERVIEW:

ROB PAULSEN

BY WILL ISERN

You’d never know his face, but you’ve heard Rob Paulsen’s voice a thousand times. Paulsen is a voice actor who, over the course of three decades, has given voice to some of the most iconic characters in television, film and video games. Perhaps best known as the voice behind the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ Raphael and Donatello, Yakko Warner of The Animaniacs and Pinky of Pinky and the Brain, Paulsen has lent his voice to hundreds of characters large and small across dozens of genres. Ahead of his appearance as one of the celebrity guests at this year’s Pensacon, Paulsen talked to Downtown Crowd about the joy of meeting his fans, the rise of pop culture fandom and a bout with throat cancer that gave him perspective on a long and successful career. 8 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Hi, Rob. Thanks for agreeing to do this. We appreciate it. It’s absolutely my pleasure, and I’m very flattered you would take the time to chat with me. What I do is a pretty anonymous sort of profession, so it’s great when people take the time to pay attention to who the knucklehead is behind all these wacky voices. I’ve been very, very fortunate and the best part of it is getting to a place now like this where people say, ‘Oh my god, I just love Turtles, or Animaniacs or whatever.’ It’s just a huge bit of icing on a really wonderful cake. So thanks for taking the time.

are pretty well known by a lot of folks. The audience now is exponentially larger than it was when any of those shows came out. I’m getting recognized more and more because I do a lot interviews and I do a lot of TV stuff now. So people say, “You’re Rob Paulsen, you’re the guy who does Pinky.” Then they find out that I’m also Raphael and Dontello or Yakko, and that’s what happens, it’s more of like a domino effect. It’s like, “Oh I like you from Yakko, I had no idea you were Raphael.” Honestly it’s an embarrassment of riches, but the bottom line is all it does is make people happy from both sides of the equation. It’s never Well, I think one of the first things I anything but a wonderful experience for wanted to ask, I wonder what do people me. I would be lying if I said I don’t like it most gravitate towards when they meet when people make a fuss over me, but it’s you? Who are you most often associated not because it makes me more money or with or which of your characters are you I become more famous, because I don’t. most often recognized for? What it does do is it gives me a chance I don’t mean to make it sound more im- to see firsthand the extent to which these pressive than it is, but it’s kind of a toss-up. characters have really been an important Just the (Turtles, Animaniacs and Pinky) part of people’s lives.

I imagine that’s got to be pretty rewarding. Oh my god, and it continues to be. If I walk into a room whether it’s 5,000 or 50 and (do Pinky’s voice) It’s the greatest thing in the world. It’s an enormous gift to me, to be sure. You mentioned how some of your characters are more popular now than when you originally created them. Talk to me a little bit about how that has changed and how the culture has grown up around this kind of stuff. I think a lot of it is due in no small part to what we’re going to be fortunate enough to do down in Pensacola, and that is comic-cons. These are popping up like zits on a 12 year-year-old. And it is this wonderful opportunity for people like me to have these instantaneous, real-time interactions with fans. Certain franchises like Ninja Turtles are utterly evergreen, and that is to say Turtles is arguably as big now as it ever has been. I’ve been in-

volved now on my third iteration of the show and I’m directing the newest one, but I was Donatello for five years on the last one and I was Raphael. But man-ohman, people come up to me all the time at events who are in their 30s and 40s with their original TMNT unopened action figures or their pajama tops and they just want me to sign it and save it for their child. It’s way beyond money and action figures and ratings. The experiences that people come and share with me, and the reason they want to meet Raphael, or Yakko or Donatello is this amazing childhood they’ve had in which I and my friends have been a major part. Or people will come up to me and they’ll say, “I’ve to tell you Mr. Paulsen, were it not for Animaniacs, my childhood would have been a mess,” or “My parents had a really acrimonious divorce and my brother and I got through it watching Ninja Turtles.” So how on earth can I quantify what sort of compliment that is? You mentioned how many projects you’ve been involved with, and maybe some of not just your most well known ones. I’m looking at a list here and it’s a very long list. I wonder when you take on a new role, how do you find the voice for your characters. It’s a combination of things. I’ve got characters banging around in my head that I try to find the perfect for. I’ve got characters that I’ve never found perfect fit for but I just like messing with them because they’re fun for me. My process is really no different than it was when I was a 10-yearold, I just do things that make me laugh or cry or affect me in some way, and I apply them in the appropriate circumstance. Sometimes I apply them when the circumstance seems at odd with the character and we come up with something that nobody seems to expect and it turns out to be pretty interesting, like Pinky. That was one of those that I don’t know that anybody had a particular idea that Pinky would be a cockney lab mouse, but it works really well in the context. With all of the work that you’ve done, I wonder if there are any projects or characters that are your favorites or you enjoy doing the most? My pat answer, and it’s pat because it’s true, is the next one, because it means I’m working. I’m looking for the next challenge; and it’s not that I don’t want to do more of (what I’ve done); I’d love to do Pinky for the next 100 years. He’s a fantastic character becaue the relationship with The Brain is just a wonderful one. The fact is that Maurice (Lamarche, voice

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When you’re an actor and you’ve been in Hollywood for 40 years and you’re still working everyday, that in itself is a gift and for people to now say – like Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon on Rick and Morty – for them to call and say, “I grew up being such a fan, would you be on my show?” What an incredible gift that is.

of The Brain) and I are like brothers in real life. I just adore him. So the opportunity to do that, at that level for that many people and with Mr. Spielbeg (Steven Spielberg, executive producer of the Animaniacs), that’s a rare opportunity. So that’s one that I could do forever, but the truth is I’m looking forward to the next one because it means people find me useful, and everyone wants to feel relevant. When you’re an actor and you’ve been in Hollywood for 40 years and you’re still working everyday, that in itself is a gift and for people to now say – like Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon on Rick and Morty – for them to call and say, “I grew up being such a fan, would you be on my show?” What an incredible gift that is. So really it’s about the next one for me. I want to kind of switch gears here because I had read that in 2016 you were diagnosed with some pretty serious throat cancer. That had to be pretty terrifying not only for the reasons that it would be terrifying for anyone, but especially because of what you do. What was the like and how are you doing now? Thank you for asking, firstly. People often are a little concerned whether or not they should and I’m very open about it because there were a lot of people who were very inspirational and helpful to me and to the extent that my story can be helpful to someone else I want to share it. We all know loved ones who have

been touched by cancer, but yeah, three years ago next month I was diagnosed with Stage 3 throat cancer and was told pretty much right at the beginning, “Look, we’re virtually positive that we’re going to be able to save your life, but because of where you’re cancer is located it’s obviously pretty gnarly.” … The chemo and the radiation, they just beat the daylights out of your head, your neck, your mouth. Obviously I have a good sense of humor and that was an enormous part of being able to deal with it in a positive way. I remember my radiation guy, he comes in and the first thing he says to me is, “Mr. Paulsen, I feel certain we can cure you but unfortunately before we do we almost have to kill you.” I laughed and I said, “OK, we’re going to get along great.” But it was intense. Well, clearly, you’ve retained your abilities. I did, and things are great. The doctors did a remarkable job like they do with so many people everyday. But I’ll tell you the reason I was able to deal with it so well is that as a result of this incredibly wonderful career gift of a career that I’ve enjoyed – when Turtles really hit 20 or 30 years ago, almost every little boy in the world loved Ninja Turtles and there was a period of time when all my buddies and me got the call and got to visit kids in the hospitals all over the world. I never dressed up in a turtle outfit or anything, but once people hear the voice it doesn’t matter. Watching the grace and the courage with which these people and their children

dealt with an incredibly bad hand with no pity, it was amazing, And all that did, years later, was prepare me for my time in the cage. Their experiences and letting me in, I was able to draw on that and I don’t even know how to tell you how many times I was really out of it and I would remember this little kid who this, or that little kid who that, or their parents, or remember you got a Christmas card from this person. I had so much of that. So I’m much more aware now of the struggles of others and being much more empathic, and that’s a direct result of my cancer experience. It really does make you kind of a better person if you choose to look at it as a chance for growth. Let me transition us back to Pensacon. Do you enjoy the convention experience? Oh man, I love it. You know, none of this was around when I was really rocking and rolling in the 80s and 90s. Comic-Con in San Diego was in its infancy. You kind of heard about it, but it wasn’t a must-see convention. Well, now you know how big part of the culture the whole convention experience is. And I love seeing how included everyone is at these events. It’s like this microcosm of what we want real life to be like. People who are otherwise kind of marginalized because they’re a little different, they’re a little odd, at the conventions they’re completely and utterly accepted. I love being part of that whole experience. That’s the best thing about any of these comic cons. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 9

GUEST INTERVIEW:

DIANE PERSHING

BY WILL ISERN

More than 25 years ago, the voice actress Diane Pershing was auditioning for roles a new television show called Batman: The Animated Series. The actress slated to play a villainous, vine-wielding botanist called Poison Ivy couldn’t make it to the studio, so Pershing was asked to audition for the part. Drawing on the characters sexuality and smarts, Pershing delivered a sultry, sophisticated performance and got the part. Little did she know the show and her character would become wildly popular, and still have a following nearly three decades later. Pershing will be among the guests at Pensacon on February 22-24 and agreed to talk to Downtown Crowd about landing the role, discovering she has fans and her prolific second career as a romance novelist. 10 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Hi Diane, thanks for doing this. One of the first things I want to ask you is how you think the comic-con and pop culture scene has grown? It seems it’s come a long way since some of these older shows first came out and that people like yourself are becoming more celebrated for the work that you’ve done. What’s been your experience with that? Well actually I didn’t have a lot of experience with it because I wasn’t aware of the fanbase I had until about three years ago and I kind of found out about it accidentally. I did a little fun signing and I expected about five or six people and I got like 80 people. All of a sudden I thought, oh, OK, and I found out about doing the comiccons and I thought maybe I could start doing this, and sure enough I’ve been doing them and loving it. But basically, I’ve been so honored to have work that I did over 25 years ago remembered.

I think it’s probably fair to say that you’re best remembered or most recognized for being the voice of Poison Ivy. Is that what people generally gravitate toward? That’s the biggie. I did five or six other cartoons but none of them had the legs (that Batman did.) I originated the part and originated the voice and did it for about 10 years on various different shows, and then they stopped hiring me. I think the were going for names at that point and I was just an anonymous voice actor. I had a lovely run with it, there’s no complaining. It was fun, it was a wonderful experience recording the episodes. You know, I’ve done a lot of voiceover work so I don’t remember everything I’ve done, but those sessions were very special.

parently supposed to be Poison Ivy – and I don’t know who it was – didn’t show up or couldn’t show up, I don’t know. I was there at the session just to do a couple of incidental voices and I looked at the drawing of her and I said, OK, she’s very sexy, and probably uses her sexuality a lot, so I would use my cosmetic voice that I’d sold perfume with. Then I found out that she was also a doctor, which means she’s got brains so I have the cosmetic voice but with a little more brain than just cosmetics. And there it was. I auditioned with that voice and it was just right then, I got it.

And recording the show itself, what was that like? Well, today they get the particular performer to go through their lines several differHow did you find that voice? ent times and then they blend everything Well it was a very last-minute thing. I was together into a show. We actually recorded asked if I wanted to audition at the mo- together almost all of the time, all of us, the ment because the person who was ap- entire cast in a room, each of us with our

“

It’s been a wonderful learning experience for me because I had no idea of the impact that some of these shows and some of these characters have on people. These biggest thing I get is that, “You were my childhood.”

own microphones in a semi-circle so we could look at each other. We could actually play off each other like an acting ensemble does and we all felt much richer for the experience. And I’m standing there and on my right is Mark Hamill (voice of the Joker) and on my left is Efrem Zimbalist Jr. (voice of Alfred) and all these wonderful, talented famous people are coming in because everybody wanted to do the show. I just felt honored to be there. I was a highly successful voice over actress but I wasn’t a highly successful celebrity in anyway. It was fun meeting all these people and playing with them. And that ran for how long? The actual show ran for four or five years and then they did Justice League and I was on that, and then Arleen Sorkin (voice of Harley Quinn) and I did a little thing called Harley & Ivy, it was kind of an internet cartoon and then it was over. When people meet you, what kinds of things do they say? What do they tell you about their experience with your characters? It’s been a wonderful learning experience for me because I had no idea of the impact that some of these shows and some of these characters have on people. These biggest thing I get is that, “You were my childhood.” They would come home from school – and we’re talking 25 years ago – and they come now with their kids watching it, so two generations. Then I get women who, when they were younger and watched the show, Poison Ivy’s strength and good boundaries and her knowledge of not letting any man walk all over her, that kind of thing, affected a lot of them and made the character kind of a heroine for them, even though she was obviously not a very nice person.

The vocal cast of Batman: The Animated Series

One young woman was sobbing because she had apparently been abused and thought that was just how the world was. When Ivy told Harley that she mustn’t let the Joker run her around, that she had a right to her own feelings apparently it touched something in this young woman and really helped her through a very difficult time. When she told me that story we were both sitting there crying. To know that you’ve had an effect like that on people is pretty mind-bending. Do you enjoy the comic-con experience? I love it. Again, another learning experience for me. I knew that there were comic-cons and that people go to them, but it wasn’t part of what I did, but I love going there now. When there’s a Poison Ivy or a Harley Quinn costume going by I yell at them to come over so we can get a picture together. The people are wonderful. I guess I had that kind of prejudice before thinking these people are loony, what are they doing dressing up in costumes, what’s wrong with them? And, of course, I was totally

wrong. These are perfectly wonderful people with marvelous imaginations. Also a lot of them make their own costumes, so they’re wonderfully talented. I want to ask you about some of your other work outside of voice acting. I was surprised to read that you have been a prolific novelist and writer. Do I have it right that you’ve published 18 novels? Nineteen romance novels. When you’re doing voiceovers, you have a part-time job. You don’t have a full-time job. The auditions take 10 minutes, and the voice jobs take anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours depending on what it is, so you have a lot of time in between. I have always loved to write, and so I made use of that time in between for about 20 years writing these novels. I had the best time and then I stopped because, I don’t know, I was sort of done with that. I still write movie reviews, and I have wonderful time doing that.

DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 11

BY KAITLYN PEACOCK | PHOTOS BY GUY STEVENS

COSPLAY ON DISPLAY

If you’ve never been to a comic convention before, chances are you know one thing: people like to dress up at cons. Cosplay, or “costume play,” has become a mainstream way of showing your love of certain characters from a variety of media. A fan of Batman? Put on a cape and cowl and you are the night! Always thought Cinderella’s dress was the most beautiful? Slip into one, but maybe forgo the glass slippers. It’s your time to show off what you really love, and it’s also a great time to meet other people who share your love. Maybe you’ll find a Robin or meet a Prince Charming at the next convention, or maybe you’ll just enjoy having a laugh with Mario. An avid cosplayer and veteran of Pensacon is Rikativity, a former cosplay guest at Pensacon and one of this year’s cosplay contest judges. After 10 years of cosplaying, dozens of costumes and lots of blood, sweat and tears, she describes cosplaying as, “The biggest love letter you can have to a piece of media, a story or a character. “It’s a bunch of friends you haven’t met yet, essentially, and I really like that about conventions in general whether you cosplay or not,” she continued. Intimidated by just how amazing everyone looks and absolutely 100 percent sure you do not have the skills to pull this off? Many people actually buy their cosplay or they buy different pieces and mash them together to form their costume. Rika’s Maya costume from the Borderlands 2 video game was the first cosplay she made from scratch, debuting it in 2017. “I started out, as many people do, just buying my cosplays, and there’s still nothing wrong with that whatsoever,” she said. “A lot of the times, especially if you commission it from an artist who makes them, it’s supporting the community constantly.” This isn’t the first time Rika will have judged a contest, but it is the first large convention she will be judging. Although she is excited about being named a judge, she said she was most looking forward to seeing the work of the other cospalyers and being able to learn from them. “I really like learning from the cosplayers and seeing how they did things,” she said. “It’s a great big community of making things all together and sharing not only your love for the character, but also sharing your knowledge. Some people are better at armor, some people are better at sewing, some people are really good at prop making, some people are great with makeup. We all learn from each other, so I think it’s going to be a great opportunity for me to learn as well.” In this spirit, Rika shared with Downtown Crowd a few tips on the process of cosplaying, and where you can start if you want to try it out for yourself.

DON’T FORGET!

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COSPLAY FEATURED:

MAYA FROM BORDERLANDS 2 Hair: Blue-silver Wig Eyes: Contacts (always be safe, go to an optometrist first) Bodysuit: Four-way stretch fabric with a custom pattern for the panel pieces Tattoo: Nude-colored dance tights on right arm with design drawn on

COSTUME GUIDE GET REFERENCES OF THE CHARACTER:

Find high-resolution photos of the character’s costume and accessories. You can use these as references when you start to make the costume, and finding good quality references will help you decide how you want to make the costume. Fan art can be a good resource along with images and movies of the character.

FIGURE OUT MATERIALS:

Think about how you want to make the costume, whether you are using foam for armor, cloth for a robe or PVC pipe for a prop. Gather these materials and start thinking about how you want each of the pieces to look on their own and together for the entire costume. Be creative and think about ways you can refresh different items to make them into something special. Check out what your local thrift store has on its shelves. Also be sure that your costume is con-safe and that you will meet the safety requirements of any convention.

DON’T BE AFRAID OF TRIAL AND ERROR:

It may take a few times to get it right, so don’t be afraid to go back and try something new. YouTube how to make certain designs or pieces of clothing. If you’ve never sewn before, look up a tutorial. And if it doesn’t look good the first time, don’t be afraid to try again. Other

Pants: Jeans with extra patches sewn on and Velcro bands

cosplayers are a great resource, as someone may have made something similar before and be able to show you how they did it.

THINK ABOUT MAKEUP:

Good primer, foundation and powder is essential, but you can also use contouring to fit the character’s features. Also, guys, don’t be afraid of makeup. Get into the spirit of the character and wear them as if you were on a stage. For those who aren’t makeup savvy, YouTube also has a tutorial for that.

Accessories: Gun holster, tool belt and a gardening glove Gun: Gutted Nerf gun with a good coat of paint Cel Shading Detail: Sharpie Energy Prop: Plastic with an LED light made by Eitanya Designs

TEST YOUR COSPLAY BEFORE THE CON:

As you build your costume, make sure you are trying it on. Figure out the restrictions of the costume, make sure you can sit down and use the bathroom. Trying on the costume lets you figure out if you need to alter it before the day of the convention, when it might be too late to fix it.

ACT OUT THE CHARACTER:

There are two components to cosplaying, and that is the costume and the “play.” Once you have the costume set, use your references to figure out good character poses. You can use these if someone asks for a photo or just to have a little fun getting into the character.

IT’S OKAY TO START SMALL:

“Don’t be afraid to be a beginner,” Rika advised. Buy the majority if you want at the beginning and slowly grow your skills by trying one or two new things every costume. Soon enough, you’ll be building the entire thing on your own.

THE FIVE-FOOT RULE:

As a general rule, most people will be seeing you from about five feet away, so if everything looks fine from there, it’s all good. You will always see all the flaws in your costume, but that doesn’t mean everyone else will see it. Instead of focusing on the flaws, flaunt what you are proud about.

DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 13

S ’ R E N BEGIN GUIDE TO N O C A S N PE ACOCK BY KAITLYN PE

So, you’ve decided it’s time to enter the world of Pensacon. Welcome! We’re glad to have you, but you look a little confused. Not sure where to start? Don’t know a merch floor from an artist alley? Confused why people are dressed up as if it’s Halloween night all the time? No worries. Here’s everything you need to know to fake it ‘til you make it this year at Pensacon.

I haven’t bought my pass yet. What’s the best pass to get?

It depends on what your plans are for attending the convention, however weekend passes are the best bet for anyone interested in attending more than one day. Weekend passes allow you to attend almost any of the events happening at Pensacon on any day of the convention. With some events starting Thursday and going all the way into Sunday night, Feb. 21 through 24, this one pass means you get to take part in almost everything over those four days. As a bonus, weekend pass holders may pick up their passes a day early, Feb. 21 at the Pensacola Bay Center and you will receive discounts on participating vendors and venues. Passes are available for single day any day of the convention, however you can only attend events on the day of the pass and you cannot pick up your pass early. Lines for pass pick up can be very long, so be prepared to wait if you are only attending one day. You must have your pass on you at all times during the convention. To attend most of the events or enter the venues, you will be required to show it upon entrance. Passes may not be shared among attendees. Passes can be purchased online at pensacon.com or during the convention at the Bay Center. Separate from convention passes, you will have to purchase photo opportunity tickets to have your photograph taken with many of the celebrity guests. For more information on this, skip to the “I want to meet some of the guests” question.

events. The Bay Center is the main hub of Pensacon, featuring the merch floor, artist alley and a special events area behind the center at Poseidon’s Bay. There will also be tents, food trucks and an OneBlood Red Bus in front of the Bay Center. You will have to go to the Bay Center to check in and get your pass, but after that, there are several other venues throughout Pensacola that will be hosting events. Across the street from the Bay Center is the Pensacola Grand Hotel, which will have a 24-hour game room open at all times during the convention and will host many of the panels with celebrity guests. The Sanger Theatre will also host events, as well as Pensacola Little Theatre and the Rex Theatre. Gallery Night will happen just after convention hours Feb. 22, with special Pensacon events and a chance to meet up with special guests along with the rest Gallery Night has to offer. Along with these major venues, some restaurants, bars and businesses around Pensacola will be getting into the Pensacon spirit and will offer special menus and deals for attendees. For a better list of participating venues and what you can expect at them, check out our Pensacon Venues Guide.

What is a “merch floor” and “artist alley?” The “merch floor,” or merchandise floor, is where you can purchase Pensacon and general geek-things from special vendors and is a must-go-to stop for any Pensacon attendee. Along with Pensacola-based vendors, the merch floor will also host out-oftown guests with wares you can’t get outside of the convention. Be sure to check out the 501st Legion’s booth as well, where you can enlist or just have your picture taken with some of your favorite Star Wars characters. The merch floor will be located in the center ring of the Bay Center and will be accessible via a marked path through the stadium seats. There is a limit to the number of guests able to be on the merch floor, so there may be a line.

Where all is Pensacon happening? Am I allowed to attend events in all of the venues?

“Artists’ alley” is where you can find artists set up with prints or work station on the convention floor. From local artists to bigname guests, you’ll be able to speak with any of the artists, look at their work and even purchase their work during the convention. Along with the merch floor, artists’ alley is the one place you must visit if you plan to attend Pensacon.

You may have heard that Pensacon is happening at the Pensacola Bay Center, and you would be correct, but there are many other venues all throughout Pensacola that will be hosting

The artists’ alley will be mostly around the center ring of the Bay Center stadium. Artists and vendors can change out from day to day, so make sure to check it out every day of the convention.

I want to meet some of the guests! How do I do that? Who doesn’t want a chance to meet the amazing guests at Pensacon? Well, lucky for you, it’s completely free to meet some of your favorite celebrities! Most will be hosting a panel at one or more of the venues around Pensacola, so make sure you know where the panels you want to attend will be held. Some of the panels will be limited to a specific number of attendees, so make sure you show up early to the events you really want to attend. Also, some of the meetand-greets will offer a ticketing system, where you pick up a ticket and can go enjoy the convention while waiting for your number to be called. Be sure to keep an eye on your ticket and the tickets being called for the meet-and-greet if you attend one of these events. Along with panels and meet-and-greets, some of the guests will be hosting a photo op. Photo ops with guests require a ticket to attend, so make sure you buy your ticket and have it with you. Tickets are sold separately from convention passes, but you can find them both online at pensacon.com. Not sure where to find a list of the panels and who will be attending? Check out pensacon.com or download the Pensacon 2019 app to find a full schedule of events.

What’s up with all the people in costume and can I show up all dressed up too? People who attend convention sometimes dress as some of their favorite characters from any fandom you can possibly think about. These people are called “cosplayers,” however they aren’t some special attendee. Anyone can cosplay for Pensacon, with little restrictions on what you can and cannot cosplay. In fact, one of the biggest events at Pensacon is the cosplay contest, where attendees can show off their favorite fandom for a panel of judges. Anyone can participate and anyone can watch the contest. Find someone at Pensacon with a costume you really like or someone dressed up as your favorite character? Often times, people will allow you to take pictures of them, however you must ask permission from them first. Some cosplayers may be “mute,” such as coslayers wearing full suits. In this case, they often will have a handler

with them who will talk on their behalf. Make sure you get permission from everyone involved before taking any photos. There are weapons restrictions for safety purposes, and anything that is separate from your costume and could be considered a “weapon” must be checked in at the safety checkpoint at the Bay Center. A full list of costume and weapons restrictions can be found at pensacon.com.

What are the most important things to know about attending Pensacon? Any attendee of Pensacon will tell you that the most important things to remember about the convention is to stay hydrated, wear good shoes and have fun. The Bay Center and many other venues around Pensacola have water fountains that you can use, however it is recommended that you bring a large water bottle with you. You can use the fountains to refill your bottle throughout the day. Cosplayers especially are recommended to make sure they stay hydrated. Don’t forget, we are still in Florida, and wearing heavy costumes can dehydrate you very quickly. Make sure you keep an eye on your friends and remind each other to get enough water throughout the day. Even if you stay at the Bay Center, you will do a lot of walking during the convention. If you plan to wander to other venues, it’ll be even more walking. Either way, good, comfortable shoes can save your feet and make the trip a good one. Also make sure you take regular breaks from walking. The Bay Center will have seating available in the stadium for you to take a rest and there are many other sit-down venues around the convention for you to take a breather. Having fun is not optional. Your choice of fun is, so get out there and enjoy your first trip to Pensacon! As an added tip, make sure you check out the Pensacon 2019 app. With it, you’ll be able to find a full list of panels, stay up-to-date on guest cancellations, track trolleys that go from one venue to the others, make your own schedule for the convention and much more. DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 15

PENSA-LOCATIONS BY MATT HANIMOV

PENSACOLA BAY CENTER - 201 E. Gregory Street - Friday the 22nd: 1 pm - 8 pm PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE - 400 S. Jefferson Street - Friday the 22nd: 1 pm Saturday the 23rd: 10 am - 6 pm - Sunday the 24th: 10 am - 6 pm The Pensacola Bay Center is host to the most activities, hosting three-stories-worth of different events and attractions. Guests in attendance will have access to non-stop video gaming in room A and vendors on the first floor. Opportunities for autographs and photos with celebrity guests will be found on the second floor, while both local- and nationally renowned authors can be found on the third floor. Finally, outdoor activities like stage performances, various tents containing group activities, a performance ring, and cosplay photos will be located at the back parking lot.

10 pm Saturday the 23rd: 10 am - 10 pm Sunday the 24th: 1 pm - 6 pm The Pensacola Little Theatre will host two venues, at the Mainstage and the Courtroom. The mainstage will feature celebrity panels and special guests and the courtroom will feature workshops, film-screenings, and performances. More specifically, the 5th annual Pensacon Short Film Festival will be held at the Pensacola Little Theatre.

PERFECT PLAIN - 50 E Garden St - Wednesday the 20th - Sunday the 24th

Perfect Plain will be collaborating with Pensacon this year to provide con-goers with a mesmerizing Middle Earth experience for five nights. Patrons of the Perfect Plain will be able to PENSACOLA GRAND HOTEL - 200 E. Gregory Street - Friday the 22nd: 1 pm - 12 envision themselves as a part of majesty that is Middle Earth while they sip on craft beers. In addition to the Tolkien-inspired décor change, Perfect Plain will be also releasing a Middle am Saturday the 23rd: 12 am - 12 am Sunday the 24th: 12 am - 6 pm The Pensacola Grand Hotel has three different attractions during Pensacon’s duration. Pan- Earth themed beer for a limited time. A bottled release of this beer, the Hairy Con-Man Impeels and special events will be held in the Grand Ballroom. Twenty-four hour board gaming rial Stout, will be available for public consumption on February 7th at 6 pm in conjunction will be available for pass holders throughout the event. Additionally, there will be a schedule with Perfect Plain’s official Pensacon kickoff party, but release bottles will only be available detailing which board games will be played, tournaments, etc. on the app. Lastly, the ho- while supplies last. tel’s lobby will host Community Tables, where guests can learn more information about fan TIN COW - 102 S Palafox St - Thursday the 21st - Sunday the 24th clubs, non-profit organizations, and other events. Consider the Tin Cow tipped over on its backside for Pensacon this year because it’ll be SAENGER THEATRE -- 118 S. Palafox Street - Friday the 22nd: TBA Saturday the replaced by an alternate, Stranger Things themed venue. Nobody can tell for sure what the restaurant will look like once the change is enacted, but expect the place to be a bit scarier 23rd: 10 am - 10 pm Sunday the 24th: 10 am - 6 pm The Saenger Theatre will be the largest offsite venue at Pensacon hosting two venues. The than normal. Also expect their selection of beers to be similar but changed somehow . . . Saenger mainstage houses 1,600 seats and will feature the largest celebrity panels of Pensacon on Saturday and Sunday. In addition to the celebrity panels the Pensacon Cosplay FISH HOUSE - 600 S Barracks St - Wednesday the 20th - Sunday the 24th contest will be held at the mainstage on Saturday night from 8 pm - 10 pm. Aside from The Fish House, Atlas Oyster House, and the Deck Bar will be participating in the Pensacon the mainstage there will be celebrity, author, and artist panels in the two upstairs meeting fun by decorating themselves after Harry Potter’s Haogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizrooms. These two meeting rooms will also be where cosplay contest prejudging will take aradry, scenes from Star Trek, and Star Wars’ Cantina Bar respectively. February 20 will feature $2 drinks for Ladies Night with tunes all night by DJ Lao. On the 21st swing by the place early Saturday afternoon. Fish House for a Pensacon kick-off party hosted by DJ Matt Powell, and stick around for a Cosplay Costume Contest at 8:30 pm.

Get your day and weekend passes NOW!

Catherine Tate Doctor Who

Colin Baker Doctor WHo

Summer Glau Firefly

William Shatner Star Trek

Linda Larkin Aladdin

Paige O’Hara

Beauty & The Beast

Irene Bedard Pocahontas

Ricky Whittle American Gods

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Jams

What we’re listening to this month

Tron Legacy

Hans Zimmer & Benjamin Wallfisch

Daft Punk

Walt Disney Records BY KAITLYN PEACOCK Admit it, the only reason you were excited about the Tron Legacy movie was the music provided by EDM experts Daft Punk. No shame, the album is amazing! Featuring soaring electronic tones to funky party beats, this album has some of the things you expect from Daft Punk, but also some things that will surprise you. From the epic drumbeats of “The Game has Changed” to the electronic thrums of “The Grid,” this is a great album for the gym or for sitting down and playing video games.

Epic Records

Standout Tracks The Game has Changed The Grid Finale

Black Panther

BY WILL ISERN Given that the original Blade Runner film remains a touchpoint for genres like synthwave, vaporwave and basically every form of atmospheric electronica, one could reasonably have expected Hans Zimmer and Benjamin Wallfisch to deliver a synthheavy score. Though while electronic sounds certainly were not absent from the 2017 film (the Yamaha CS-80 is featured as an homage to Vangelis’ classic score), they did not feature nearly as heavily as more organic sounds. Deep basses, distant strings and Gregorian chants are featured throughout. Watching the film, you don’t realize just how gloomy and heavy the music is, because it compliments the images on screen so perfectly. Like the

film, the score is both an homage to and evolution of the original. Standout Tracks Wallace Blade Runner Tears in the Rain

Toy Story 3

Various Artists

Randy Newman

Interscope Records

BY WILL ISERN We’re cheating a little bit here because Black Panther The Album is a project separate from the film’s actual score. That said, it’s really this album, not the orchestral score, that most remember and associate with the movie. That’s thanks largely due to Kendrick Lamar who, along with his Top Dawg Entertainment collaborators, produced what is essentially a complete commercial album to accompany the film’s release. I mean, you’ve heard these songs. “All The Stars” is up four Grammys, after all. Given that it’s the companion to a major Disney film, the album lacks much of the boldness of Kendrick’s solo work, but its highlights are among the best contemporary music produced for a film in the last decade.

Bladerunner 2049

Walt Disney Records

Standout Tracks King’s Dead All The Stars Pray For Me

BY WILL ISERN Randy Newman is a national treasure. Ever since the original Toy Story and its modern classic “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” Newman has been the go-to songwriter and composer for many of Disney and Pixar’s best animated films. For Toy Story 3, Newman once again produced a winner. From Newman’s trademark wit and levity to darker, more dissonant territory, the soundtrack to Toy Story 3 is one of Newman’s most diverse works. Sonically, the music is as a mix of traditional film orchestration, light jazz and Americana-pop featuring saxophone, harmonica, guitar and stand-up bass. Winning both the Grammy for Best Score Soundtrack and an Oscar for Best Song for “We Belong Together,” the soundtrack features some of Newman’s best and most ambitious work.

Standout Tracks We Belong Together Cowboy! You Got Lucky

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Da te line D ow n t own ence with Pensacola’s favorite local chefs – you don’t want to miss it. Plus, sample some of the science we take on the road. This “Goes Gourmet” fundraiser for the MESS Hall will highlight the science behind original menu creations. Ticket prices are $150 per person. To purchase your ticket or more information, visit http://pensacolamesshall.org/gourmet or call 937-6377.

James Taylor and Bonnie Raitt February 10

John Appleyard Talk: Pensacola History February 12 and 26

John Appleyard will have two history presentations Feb. 12 and 26 at 9 am both at the Pensacola Visitor Information Center. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear famed historian, John Appleyard share his knowledge of Pensacola’s history with one of his famous storytelling sessions. The event is free to the public but seating is limited. For more information, call 434-1234.

Improvable Cause Show February 2 and 14

Pensacola Little Theater will host an Improvable Cause (IC) show Feb. 2 and 14 and will continue to have shows the first Saturday of every month. IC is Pensacola’s only professional improv comedy troupe. Everything is created in the moment with audience suggestions, so each show is different. IC shows are edge-of-your-seat theatre where anything can happen, and usually does. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com.

Breakfast and a Movie at NNAM February 5 through 26

Enjoy Chick-fil-A breakfast and choice of beverage from the new refreshment counter followed by a presentation and movie in the recently renovated Giant Screen Digital Theater. Museum Historian will present stories of naval aviation history as the Museum Curator and Museum Archivist share pieces of history from the museum’s extensive historical collection. Doors open

PHOTO BY GUY STEVENS at 9 am. Presentation begins at 9:30 am followed by a movie at 10 am. Breakfast and a Movie is $10 per person and tickets are available for purchase to the first 325 people at the Giant Screen Theater ticket counter. For more information, visit navalaviationmuseum.org and call 327-5002.

Pensacola Supplier Diversity Exchange February 5

The Office of Supplier Diversity, City of Pensacola, and the Gulf Coast African American Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the 2019 Pensacola Supplier Diversity Exchange Feb. 5 at 8:30 am to 3 pm at the Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center. The Pensacola Supplier Diversity Exchange will include a panel discussion, networking opportunities and oneon-one interviews. During the Business Exchange portion, small business owners can market their goods and services directly with local and state buyers at scheduled one-on-one interviews. For more information, call 438-3993.

way is a non-profit organization which has been providing services/support to individuals with developmental disabilities in Pensacola since 1954. Their ÏShredding CrewÓ will be parked at the Grand Point Realty office Feb. 5 to gather important documents for secure disposal. Bring your boxes to our office, weigh in and pay a small, tax-exempt fee to the Arc Gateway. Safe, secure and worry-free. For more information, call Grand Points Realty at 435-3005.

WSRE Public Square: Jack E. Davis February 5

Legendary singer/songwriter James Taylor and his All-Star Band with special guest Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Bonnie Raitt and her band are coming to Pensacola Bay Center Feb.10 at 7 pm, doors open at 5:30 pm, for one intimate and memorable night. Ticket prices start at $73. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit pensacolabaycenter.com.

325ZeroHunger Hungry Hearts February 10

The second annual Hungry Hearts Event hosted by Artworks Studio and Gallery at Villagio on Perdido Key, 13700 Perdido Key Dr., will be held Feb. 10 from noon to 4 pm. During the event, food donations will be taken for 325ZeroHunger, a nonprofit aiming to end childhood hunger. More than 60 percent of Escambia County public school students, roughly 24,000 children, rely on the school system for at least two free or reduced price meals a day during the school year. Approximately 1,500 to 2,000 of the 24,000 eligible students will receive meals during a part of the summer provided through the USDA programs. The remaining 22,000 are left to make other arrangements. Everyone is invited to bring a non-perishable food item to help support the community. Enjoy local art and activities during the event. For more information, call 261-9617.

The next WSRE Public Square will be Feb. 5 at 7 pm to 9 pm at the Pensacola State College. Drawing from his Pulitzer Prizewinning book, “The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea,” author and University of Florida professor Jack Davis will talk about the role the Gulf of Mexico has played in the course of U.S. history. Support provided by the Florida Humanities Council with funds from the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs. This event is free and open to the publc. For more informa- Annual Snowbird Roost February 14 tion, call 484-1200 or visit www.wsre.org. Document Shredding Day It’s that time of year again. The annual February 5 Snowbird Roost hosted by The Perdido Grand Points Realty will be working with MESS Hall Goes Gourmet Key Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Arc Gateway to hold a special Document February 8 Pensacola will occur Feb. 14 at 11 am to 1 Shredding event Feb. 5 from 10 am to 6 Join the Pensacola Mess Hall for a special pm at the Skopelos at New World Landing. pm at 511 E. Government St. Grand Point event combing science and food Feb. 8 The chamber is very excited to share with Realty and Arc Gateway invite neighbors, from 6 pm to 9 pm at the Sanders Beach- seasonal visitors the best of Pensacola and customers and friends to join in protecting Corinne Jones Resource Center. It’s going Perdido Key. Tickets are limited, so stop by your personal information. The Arc Gate- to be a fun and unique fine dining experiDOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 21

Da te line D ow n t own the Visitor’s Center on Perdido Key to purchase them today. The event will showcase a plated, three-course lunch provided by one of Pensacola’s celebrity Chef, Gus Silivos, live entertainment, vendors and more. Tickets are $15 and register in-person at the Perdido Key Visitor’s Center,15500 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL 32507. For more information, visit business.visitperdido. com or 602-9279.

Pensacola Opera Presents: Some Enchanted Valentine February 14

presented by the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. Ticket prices start at $26. For more information, visit www.pensacolasaenger. com or contact the Saenger Theatre Box office at 595-3880.

Gallery Night February 22

Gallery Night will have a special night coinciding with the start of Pensacon, Feb. 22 starting at 5 pm. Take the ÏArts to the StreetsÓ where visitors can connect with the unique culture of Pensacola and maybe run into some special guests from the convention and enjoy special menus offered at certain restaurants and bars. Palafox Street will be closed for traffic between Garden and Main Street during the event. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/pg/Gallery-Night-Pensacola.

Pensacola’s Saenger Theatre will host the Pensacola Opera presenting ÏSome Enchanted Valentine,Ó Feb. 14 at 7:30 pm. Fall in love this Valentine’s Day with popular songs from the Broadway musicals of Rodgers and Hammerstein, featuring our incredibly talented Artists in Residence. Ticket prices start at $24. For more infor- I Pink, I Can Run mation, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com February 23 or contact the Saenger Theatre Box office Join the Krewe du YaYas at the sixth anat 595-3880. nual I Pink I Can Run four-mile run/walk for breast cancer Feb. 23. The race will start at 9 am at the Flora-Bama Lounge. All proParty Gras! Let the Good ceeds from this event benefit The Keeping Times Roll Abreast Foundations’ mammography and February 15 breast health programs. Cost is $30 now The City of Pensacola and Escambia Coun- until Feb. 19 at 5 pm. Registration rate goes ty are partnering to host a Mardi Gras event up to $35 at packet pick-up and race day. for seniors ages 50 and up, Let the Good To register, visit www.active.com/perdidoTimes Roll, Feb. 15, 11 am to 12:15 pm at key-fl/running/distance-running-races/ithe Brownsville Community Center. This pink-i-can-run-2019. For more information, festive event will offer seniors in the com- visit www.keepingabreastfoundation.org. munity an opportunity to come together and celebrate the Mardi Gras season with live music by Cat Rhodes and the Truth, fun 200 South Crawfish Boil activities including an indoor mini parade, February 24 community resources, health screenings, World of Beer, Blend Lounge, Taco Agave plus king cake and red beans and rice. For and Graffiti Pizza are partnering with Abimore information visit playpensacola.com ta Brewing Company for a little pre-Mardi Gras crawfish boil. Come out and hang out or follow the event on Facebook. Feb. 24 at 2 pm to 6 pm. For more information, call 332-7952.

Pensacola Children’s Chorus: One World, Many Voices February 17

Pensacola’s Saenger Theatre will host the Pensacola Children’s Chorus presenting ÏOne World, Many Voices,Ó Feb. 17 at 2:30 pm. This strictly choral concert is anything but traditional, incorporating music from around the world led by the PCC’s amazing artistic staff and a renown guest conductor. Don’t miss this beautiful tapestry of music 22 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

MiniGolf Tournment at Goofy Golf

BRIAN KILMEADE Today’s News & Newsmakers Fox Talk Radio

11 am - 1 pm Weekdays

February 28

Join First Tee of Northwest Florida for Minigolf tournament at Goofy Golf. All proceeds benefit youth education initiatives. Shotgun start at 5 pm. Play 18 holes for the chance to win. Ticket prices are $25, $20 for members, and includes one drink ticket and one raffle ticket. For more information, call 438-1178.

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$5.99 HAPPY HOUR MENU $2.50 DOMESTIC BOTTLES & DRAFTS $4 HOUSE WINES & LIQUOR DAILY FROM 3-6PM IN THE BAR

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LUNCH $ 99 SPECIALS MON-FRI â€¢ 11AM-3PM