Gulf Coast FREE!

A Winter Visitor BIRDSPublication HOLIDAYS 2018 HolidaySno music w and events pages 14-17, 20 Casino Entertainment page 21

Find Your Club! pages 12-13

In print and online SnowBirdsGulfCoast.com SNOWBIRDS 13TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR

4

Gulf Coast SnowBIRDS ON THE COVER Four years ago, Susan and Terry Kennedy sold all their possessions, bought a fifth wheel and hit the road for an adventure that would take them to 48 states and across Canada. They've seen it all, but choose to make Navarre, Florida their winter home.

INDEX Publisher’s Welcome...... 6 Cover Couple...... 8 Remembering Norm Crowder...... 9 Lifelong learning...... 10 Clubs...... 12-13 Calendar...... 14-15 Sounds of the Season...... 16 Holdiay trips: Mobile and New Orleans...... 17 Sports: Snowball Derby, Ice Hockey...... 18 Holiday Magic at Beau Rivage...... 20 Casino Entertainment...... 21 Sean of the South...... 23

Publisher: Karen Harrell / [email protected] / 850.291.1266 Art Director: Jahna Jacobson Writers and Contributors: Karen Harrell Photography: Randy Hamilton/Hamilton Art Agency

6 Welcome!

With this edition, we close out the calendar year 2018 but mark the start of a­­­­ new Snowbird season.

As most of you know, Hurricane Michael seemingly came out of nowhere in early October and accelerated from a tropical storm to ultimately a Category 4 in just three days! The storm covered much of the central Gulf of Mexico before making landfall about 40 miles east of Panama City Beach at tiny Mexico Beach.

The devastation you’ve probably seen on television, but most of the coast escaped serious damage. Panama City Beach quickly got back up and running as power and water were restored. Inland and to the east, there will be some major rebuilding. In our January edition, we will feature some opportunities to volunteer and/or support fundraisers.

Our winter cover couple winter are full-time RVers at Santa Rosa RV Park in the Navarre area. They hail from the Boston area. Our side story is a sad one as we lost a too-young (65) and energetic Snowbird who helped make things fun at the same park. But, his widow has plenty of support from her RVing family, and she chose to remain there this winter.

Be sure to check out our holiday happenings. There are more festivities than you would ever have time for but you might give it a try!

Also, don't miss the "Sean of the South" column and his special appearance Dec. 6 at the Imogene Theatre in Milton, Fla.

We mark our 13th season this year. Hard for me to believe sometimes. Time goes by so very fast. I so appreciate all of your support. Remember, we have not only our popular print magazine but also a website, e-newsletter and Facebook page (search Snowbirds Gulf Coast Magazine – and give us a “Like”). As always, we are glad you are here. Be safe and "Happy New Year!"

As always, contact me if I can help in any way. We are glad you are here.

Warm wishes, Karen Harrell, [email protected] 850-291-1266

8Full-time RVers find You wish you were here! paradise in Navarre Susan and Terry Kennedy sold Describe the RV "full- all of their possessions, bought timers" lifestyle. a fifth wheel and hit the road Susan: Freedom – we can some four years seeking new go where we want when we adventures. want. Terry: It lets me see what Terry, 67 is from Windsor, Connecticut, most people will never see. and Susan, 62, is from Conton, I enjoy history. Initially, Massachusetts. Susan retired from a there were a few concerns lifelong career in nursing four years about the unknowns, but ago, while Terry is retired from the once we got in the groove US Army and worked in international of an RV life, everything sales in telecommunications. fell into place.

How did you find Navarre?

Susan has a cousin in Norm Cantonment, his dad and Susan’s dad has passed, but Jan is are brothers. They spent a lot of time still here, and we want to be here with together growing up in Massachusetts. her. The amount of work Norm and So, when we wanted to spend winters Jan put into activities set this resort in Florida, we looked in this area, apart from others. and Santa Rosa RV Resort caught our eye. The first year we stayed only What are some of your favorite two months and found we made activities? more friends here than in our old Susan: Painting, jewelry making, neighborhood. Since then we have wreath making, card making and returned to Santa Rosa RV Resort for sewing. I love to create and express five months in 2016 and six months myself. Being retired gives me more in 2017. This year we’re scheduled for time. I also love to walk and bike. I am another six months. also an avid Boston sports fan. Terry: Doing things with my friends: Fishing in the sound and off Navarre Pier; resort activities: potluck dinners, socials, etc.

You recently purchased a new Both previously divorced, they met fifth wheel - what about this one on Yahoo.com thanks to a shared that suited your needs? What love of the outdoors that has taken areas did you customize? them to 48 states and eight Canadian The kitchen is the deal breaker. We provinces in their RV, along with both love to cook. Also, we modified Do you volunteer with local and their co-pilots, Dachshunds Sadie and an area by removing one of the sofas Gretchen. They are already planning a park residents? and setting up a sewing and computer/ Susan: We teach CPR/First Aid. As a 2020 caravan trip to Alaska. What keeps you coming back? file station. The resort is beautiful and the Navarre nurse, I also help with health concerns During the winter months, they make area keeps us of the other RV folks. their home in Navarre, Florida. busy. The owner What are some of your favorite and manager destinations in local Gulf Coast What attracted you to each take pride in this communities? other? resort and are Susan: We loved Joe Patti’s, Thai Susan: Handsome, makes me laugh, always available. and Vietnamese food and going to communicator, listens, kind, retired We have lots Lambert's in Foley. I also enjoy going military, biking and great cook. I also of friends that to my cousin’s basketball games. He love his family, Terry is a twin, and his come back each is the girls varsity basketball coach at sister is the best. She feels like a sister year. Norm and Tate High School. to me. Jan Crowder ran Terry: Susan is energetic, funny, fun activities here What do you miss most about to be with, ex-military, and enjoys for the last three home when you're on the road? biking, camping and the outdoors. years we have This RV is our year-round home. But been coming. we do miss the colors of fall in New England. 9 Remembering Norm: Santa Rosa's Mr. Sunshine

Norman Crowder’s to retire, the large size, big smile couple, who and bear hugs were were already legendary among familiar with Snowbird friends the Gulf at Santa Rosa RV Coast, decided Park and through to purchase a his extensive lot in Navarre volunteer work, also the Navarre, where they Fla., community. later built a home. But “Norm,” as everyone knew him, and Both age 65, they met in high school after a couple his wife, Jan were married for 45 years and lived and worked in northern of years, the before his sudden death in late August. Virginia for most of their careers. They couple decided “Everyone says the same thing – that have one to rent out Norm gave the best hugs,” said Jan. son, Jimmy their home and adopt a full-time RV James, who lifestyle. operates “Norm had always wanted to do that, two Painting so after mother died we sold most With a Twist of our things or put them in storage franchises in and went on the road,” Jan said. “We Mississippi. traveled 13,000 miles and visited When it Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, came time South Carolina, Virginia, Ohio, served the community, representing Snowbirds on the local tourism board, was active with organizations such the chamber, Navarre Community Organized Response Team (CERT), Gulf Coast Kid’s House and many more. When Norm died, the couple’s close Snowbird friends traveled from as far as way as Indiana, Missouri and Tennessee to pay their respects to Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi and Norm and to support Jan. then home.” For five years the Crowders lived most of the year at the Santa Rosa RV Park where they helped coordinate events and performed other duties. The rest of the year they fulfilled lifelong dreams of traveling the country. Jan is still living and working among her friends who have rallied around her. Jan said Norm loved to be around people and organized outings to nearby casinos, area attractions and a Carnival cruise a few years back. He also was the park bingo “caller” (a job Jan has assumed.) He also 10 Get smart! Low-cost, lifelong learning on the Gulf Coast Lifelong learners can register for low-cost classes this winter.

There are some 70 classes ranging from genealogy to ballroom dance, digital photography for beginners, water aerobics, music, art and much more at the Center for Lifelong Learning's hosted at the joint campus of the University of West Florida’s Fort Walton Beach and Northwest Florida State College campus. Early registration is 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Jan. 4 with late registration Jan. 7-9 and classes set to start Jan. 14. A membership fee of $60 each semester entitles students to take as many as four classes; additional classes over 4 cost $10 each. There is a $60 membership fee for four classes per semester. Most classes meet for eight weeks. The CLL provides interesting educational activities, social events, and out-of- town trips for people who believe that learning never ends. Our organization is affiliated with Road Scholar that offers educational opportunities worldwide. Details: 850-863-6548 or cll-fwb.org. PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE A wide variety of classes are offered at the Pensacola, Milton, Warrington, Century and South Santa Rosa campuses and centers, and at the Pensacola Bridge Center at 1200 N. 12th Ave. Online classes also are offered. Registration is ongoing for more than 25 lifelong learning courses. The non-credit courses are affordable – ranging in price from $6 for an aquatics trial class to $255 for individual swim lessons. Details: Michael Listau at [email protected] or 850-484-1797. LEARN ABOUT THE SEA The nationally recognized Navarre Beach Marine Science Station is hosting a series of "Snowbird Session by the Sea" classes. The interactive sessions are staged 3:308 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31. Topics to be announced. Details: www. navarresciencestatipon.org WINTER WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays from January 2 to February 27, 2019 Every year, Bellingrath Gardens and Home hosts special programs when the weather gets chilly in winter months. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home, tips for making your garden more spectacular or guest lectures from renowned members of the horticultural and gardening world. Each program begins at 10:30 a.m. and is included in Gardens admission. Admission for members is free. Reservations are requested for each program. Details: 251.459.8864 or email bellingrath@ bellingrath.org. 11 Send your club news to Publisher@ Snowbird Clubs SnowbirdsGulfCoast.com Each year there are a variety of activities put on The Panama City Convention and Visitor Bureau: and social events. A complete calendar will be p.m. November 19, December 3, 17 and 21. For either by Snowbirds or area organizations for the Winter Resident Appreciation Days are 8 to 11 a.m available in January. To learn more: January dates, refer to http://www. Snowbirds. If you have activities to share, please Jan. 18, Feb. 8 &22 at the Panama City Beach Senior navarrebeachsnowbirdsclub.com waltoncountysnowbirds.com/storage.htm email: [email protected] by the 5th Center. Also: Jan. 23 is the annual Winter Resident PENSACOLA BEACH - The hub of activity can be ALABAMA of the month preceding publication (we publish Homecoming Dance; Feb. 13 is the Winter Resident found at the two island churches which host DAKOTAS: The North and South Dakota Snowbird Holiday, January, February and March each year.) Senior Prom and Feb. 27 is the Winter Resident potlucks, games and more. The Santa Rosa Island Club meets on the second and fourth Tuesday EXPOS Finale. Details: 800-722-3224 or www. Authority's annual Pensacola Beach Bash will be mornings. Dates include Jan. 8, 22; Feb. 12, 26 and Dates for Snowbird Expos and Events include Jan. 17 visitpanamacitybeach.com staged is Jan. 24 Pensacola Beach Community March 12. At Luna's Eat & Drink, 25753 Canal Road, - Fort Walton Beach Winter Guest Fest; Jan. 18, Feb. DESTIN: The Club meets at “The Roost” – the Destin Church, 920 Panferio Dr. Also find activities at Our Orange Beach, at 8:30 a.m. for breakfast with a 8 &22 - Panama City Winter Resident Appreciation Community Center, 101 Stahlman Ave. and will open Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, 920 Via de short meeting to follow at 9 a.m. Join us for events Days; Jan. 22 - National Naval Aviation Museum with registration Nov. 26, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The first Luna. Check out the island's visitor center in the throughout the season including tours of local Snowbird Fly-In; Jan. 22 - Navarre Beach Snowbird Tuesday meeting is Nov. 27, 10 a.m. Other 2018 main parking lot for more information. interests, dinner at local restaurants, etc. The club Expo; Jan. 24 - Pensacola Beach Snowbird Bash; Feb. meeting dates include Dec. 4 & 11. The club’s “Big WALTON COUNTY: The first registration event is collects food and infant items at breakfast meetings 7 - Alabama Lifestyles Expo. More details will be Registration” is Jan. 3, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Weekly Nov. 19 at Faith Assembly Fellowship Hall, 306 for the local food pantry and also contribute to available in the January edition. Tuesday meetings are held in two sessions in Jan. South Geronimo between 8:30 and 10:30. other not-for-profit fundraisers in the local Baldwin FLORIDA and Feb: 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. and 10 a.m. March 5. Registration fee is $10 per year. The first general County area. Details: Joyce at 605-351-0274. PERDIDO KEY: Events calendars can be picked up at Meetings include entertainment, activities and meeting is Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. at the Destin Life DAUPHIN ISLAND: The Dauphin Island Chamber of the Perdido Key Visitor Center, 15500 Perdido Key information from local vendors. Club activities Center Building of the Destin United Methodist Commerce invites Snowbirds to visit the Welcome Drive. Details: 850-492-4660 or www.visitperdido. include cards and games, fishing, golf, tennis, Church, 200 Beach Drive, Destin, with featured Center, 1016 Bienville Blvd., for info on island events com. pickleball, skeet shooting, cruises, casino trips and entertainer vocalist Michael J. Thomas. There will be including the twice-monthly Boardwalk Talks the PANAMA CITY: A hub of activity for Panama City more. Details: www.destinsnowbirds.org door prizes and vendors (arrive early to visit.) first and third Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. at The Snowbirds is the sprawling senior center. FORT WALTON BEACH: With over 700 members, the Registering with the Walton County Snowbirds Estuarium. Island representatives are actively Membership fees are just $35/year. Activities Club offers activities, events, camaraderie and provides a great opportunity for first time and engaged in forming a club. Details: www. include health, fitness and exercise; arts and crafts; fellowship. Registration 9 a.m. to Noon on Tuesdays. returning snowbirds to hit the ground running upon townofdauphinisland.org fun and games and social and learning Annual fee is $8. Meetings follow at 10 a.m. Details: their arrival on the snow-free Emerald Coast. ILLINOIS: The 2019 season kicks off Jan. 4 with a opportunities. Oatfield Center, 423 Lyndell Lane, [email protected] or www. fwbsbc.com Snowbirds may collect their storage items at Welcome Back Coffee at 9 a.m. at the Orange Panama City Beach, Fla. Details: 850-236- 3038 or NAVARRE: The Navarre Beach Snowbird Club Affordable Storage at 114 Sugar Drive (one mile east Beach Senior Activity Center. January event dates 850-233-5065 continues to grow and offers a variety of programs of Highway 30A on Highway 98) between 3 and 4 include: 11 – Breakfast at GT’s on the Bay, 8 a.m.; 15

$89 Cleaning, Exam, Xray 15% off services with cash payment

Expires March 31, 2019. Check website for complete information. Join the Club ! – Potluck&Games at Orange Beach Senior Activity Alabamagulfcoastsnowbirds.org (preferred), or Shari michiganclubalabama.com or 231-335-9838. 9 through March 13 except for Feb. 20's covered Center, 5 p.m.; 16 – Book Club (author Kristin DeCook, 641-521-0929 or Sharon Hesselmann, 563- MINNESOTA: Meets Tuesday for breakfast Jan 8 – dish luncheon at a location TBD. Breakfasts are Hannah) Orange Beach Library, 9:30 a.m.; 25 – 357-2721. Everyone is welcome to attend. The first Mar 12 at GT’s On The Bay. Members socialize and informal with no dues, reservations, formal officers Breakfast at GT’s On the Bay, 7:45 a.m.; February breakfast features a local speaker discussing recent hear weekly announcements, volunteer or roll of membership. The club joins other state – 8 – Breakfast at GTs on the Bay, 8 a.m.; 9 – developments in the Gulf-coast area. Cost is $10.50 opportunities, card/game get-togethers, golf snowbird groups in winter fundraising activities for Bratfest at Orange Beach, TBD, 10:30 a.m.; 9 – Trivia per person, RSVP on the website. There is no fee to scheduling and prizes, 50/50 raffle, and more. New the community. On several evenings TBD we meet Night at Orange Beach Events Center, 6 p.m.; 12 – join the club. Door prizes are awarded and a 50/50 this year: Pre-registration required. Click on for Eat And Talk at O'Charlie's Restaurant in Foley. Potluck&Games, 5 p.m.; 13 – Book Club at Orange drawing is held at each breakfast. Cocktail parties “Breakfast Signup” on the website. Doors open 7:30 Details: Rich Smith at 484-264-1394. Beach Library, 9:30 a.m.; 22 – Breakfast at GTs on are scheduled Jan. 18 and Feb. 22, 5-7 p.m. at The am; breakfast 8 a.m. Cost: $10, includes tax and tip. SENIOR SNOWBIRDS: 25th season weekly potluck the Bay, 8 a.m.; 22 – Low Country Boil, 11 a.m.; 26 Caribe, Building C, 28103 Perdido Beach Blvd, Cash preferred. No bills over $20. The club collects luncheons launch in a new location Jan. 3 at the – Picnic in the Park at Johnnie Sims Park, Noon. Orange Beach. No RSVP is required. Bring a dish to food donations and/or cash for the Christian Service Orange Beach Community Center, 27235 Canal Rd. March – 8 – Breakfast at GTs on the Bay, 8 a.m. share and your own beverage. Iowa has a golf group Center, our dedicated project.. For information visit Set up at 11 and eat at Noon. Bring a dish to feed 10. Dennis Thorn is president. with golf sign-up for 2019 through the website. www.mnal.org or the Facebook page @mnalclub. Cost is $1. Monday Night potlucks begin Jan. 7. Social INDIANA: Open to all "Hoosiers" and meets the Contact: Fran Gruenhaupt, Publicity Chairman 319- NEW YORK: Luncheon dates are Jan. 10, January 24, hour is 6 p.m., program 7 p.m. Bring a dish for 10. second and four first Thursdays in January and 330-2446 or [email protected]. Feb 7 and 21 March 7 at Ginny Lane, 4851 Wharf Entrée and drinks provided. Dues: $25/year family, February at Luna's Event Center, 25689 Canal Road, MISSOURI: The first meeting is Jan. 9 at Phoenix V, Pkwy E, Orange Beach at the Wharf. Registration 11 $13 single. Details: Michael O'Rourke 251-981-6060. Orange Beach beginning Jan. 10. Doors open at 7:30 9 a.m. Breakfast meeting Perdido Beach Resort a.m. Reservations: [email protected] or call WISCONSIN: Upcoming events include: Nov. 22 - a.m.; meeting at 8 a.m. Details: Beverly Walker 513- (27200 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach). Tracy 585 748 0133 or Frank at 585-748-0432. Potluck Thanksgiving Dinner. Social at 12:30 p.m. and 519-9645 or to reserve space, Jan Pell 317-814-5832. Business meetings at 9 a.m. held at Phoenix V will OHIO: Schedule includes: Dec. 5 – Breakfast for dinner at 2 p.m.; Nov. 29 – Lunch at Papa Rocco’s, IOWA: There are four breakfasts and two cocktail alternate with breakfast. Details: karengrinstead@ early arrivals, Tacky Jack’s Gulf Shores, 8:30 a.m.; 19 11:30 a.m.; Dec. 5, Breakfast at Sunliner Diner, 8:30 parties held January through early March 2019. Iowa icloud.com or www.mosnowbirds.org. – Breakfast at Tacky Jack’s, 8:30 a.m.; 28 – Early a.m. 12 – Breakfast at Gulf Shores Diner, 8:30 a.m.; Snowbird Club Co-Presidents, Jim and Pat Brush MICHIGAN: Meeting dates: Jan 10 & 24; Feb. 7 & 21 dinner at DeSoto’s, 4 p.m.; Jan. 9 – Breakfast and 19 – Lunch at Original Oyster House, 11:30 a.m.; 25 and Steve and Chris Hedlund, have set the Snowbird and March 7, 2019. All meetings are at the Erie speaker, 8:30 a.m. at Luna’s on Canal Road; 23 – – Christmas Dinner at Orange Beach Event Center, breakfast dates for Wednesdays, Jan. 9 and 23, and Meyer Center in Gulf Shores. Registration begins at Breakfast and speaker at Luna’s, 8:30 a.m.; 30 – Noon social, 2 p.m. lunch. Meetings: Jan . 9, 23; Feb. February 6 with the final February breakfast 8:30 a.m., coffee and donuts at 9 a.m. with the Potluck at Phoenix V; Feb. 6 – Breakfast and speaker 6, 20; March 6, 13 at 9 a.m. at the Orange Beach Tuesday, Feb. 19. All are at Perdido Beach Resort, meeting at 10 a.m.. Meetings include entertainment, at Luna’s 8:30 a.m. RSVP: Gayle 937-621-1700. Event Center. See more: www.sites.google.com/site/ 27200 East Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach. Club activities and door prizes. Membership dues PENNSYLVANIA: Meets Wednesdays for breakfast wisconsinsnowbirdclub/mpany-calendar. Details: Reservations can be made on the website, Iowa- are$3 total per person, per year. Details: www. at BuzzKatz, 25689 Canal Road, Orange Beach Jan. Kenn 251-967-2463.

February 7, 2019 14 ALL SEASON heritage and customs, great foods and Native Holiday Ice Skating - 201 E. Gregory Street, American vendors with authentic crafts. Pensacola, FL, Pensacola Bay Center. Skate Florida Town Park, 3900 Florida Town Rd, Pace, sessions are available throughout the season. FL. Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun. Noon - 5 p.m. Details: 850-432-0800 ext. 252 or www. Details: 850-516-6960 pensacolabaycenter.com 11/23 through Nov. 21 Apalachicola Historic Downtown 55th Annual Fall Outdoor Cascading Christmas Celebration - Streets lined with Chrysanthemums - Bellingrath Gardens luminaries and the sounds of carolers. Santa and Home - See the nation’s largest outdoor arrives by shrimp boat at 4 p.m. Apalachicola display of the signature blooms of the Riverfront Park, Apalachicola, FL. 3 to 8 p.m. season. Details: www.bellingrath.org Details: www.aahs.wildapricot.org WEDNESDAYS 11/23 - 12/23 Boardwalk Talks, Dauphin Island Sea Fish River Christmas Tree Farm - Cut Lab Estuarium - The Northern Gulf Institute your own tree or pick one off the lot! Enjoy presents informal talks about the Gulf of a manger scene with live animals, free tours Mexico region. 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin on the tree train and more holiday fun. 3982 Island, AL. First and third Wednesdays, 11:15 Woodhaven Dairy Road, Summerdale, AL. a.m. FREE. No talk Nov. 21. Details: www.disl. Details: 251-988-8144 or www.fishrivertrees. org/estuarium or 251-861-2141 com Winter Wednesdays - Bellingrath Gardens and Home - Sessions are held each week 11/23 - 12/31 in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 Magic Christmas in Lights - Bellingrath a.m. from Jan. 2 - Feb. 27. Admission to the Gardens and Home celebrates 22 Years of program is included in the regular Gardens dazzling nighttime displays. See more than admission. Guests are encouraged to tour the 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes Gardens after the session. Register: 251-459- on a walking tour of the 65-acre estate. Nov. 8864. Details: www.bellingrath.org 23 – Dec. 31, 5 to 9 p.m. Closed Dec. 25. SUNDAYS Details: www.bellingrath.org Americana Cafe Sundays - Roberts Hall, 11/23 - 12/30 831 Florida Avenue, Lynn Haven, FL. Live 4th Annual Gulfport Harbor Lights music weekly at the Legendary Roberts Winter Festival – See beautiful holiday Hall. Concerts start at 4 p.m. Open mic at 3 lights and visit Santa’s Village on a walking p.m. Details: 850-722-4915, 850-774-3561 or tour or aboard a free heated trolley. Jones Luckymudmusic.com Park, Highway 90, Gulfport. Open 5:30 to thru 12/31 9:30 p.m. admission. Details: 228-868-5881 or Animation Academy - Gulf Coast https://www.facebook.com/gptharborlights/ Exploreum Science Center. Interactive fun that teaches math, science and engineering. 65 Government St, Mobile, AL 36604 Details: 251- 208-6893 or www.exploreum.com through 2/2/19 Baytowne On Ice - Apex Skating Pavillion, Holiday parades, Gulf Coast style 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, West Miramar Beach, FL. The perfect place to find the 12/1 11th Annual Christmas Parade winter spirit! Details: 850-714-7614 or www. Jaycees Christmas Parade - A Hometown Holiday Holiday fun in Old Town Bay St. Louis. Ends at the baytownewharf.com - Parade on Harrison Avenue, Downtown Panama Depot with the Sugarplums Festival. 11 a.m. to City, FL. 7 p.m. Details: www.pcfljaycees.com or 12:30 p.m. 11/16 and 12/21 850-763-8282 12/2 Gallery Night - Stroll through Downtown 33nd Annual Christmas on the Water Boat Parade Christmas Parade - Town of Dauphin Island, AL. Pensacola and experience an eclectic array of - Boats in full holiday décor, followed by fireworks. Enjoy holiday festivities at 7 p.m. on Fri. and 11 music, art and cuisine. Downtown Pensacola, 11/24 - 12/31 Mississippi Gulf Coast, Biloxi. 6 p.m. Details: 228- a.m. on Sat. Details: www.townofdauphinisland. FL, 5 - 9 p.m. Details: 850-417-7321 or www. Annual Snowflakes in the Bay – Beautiful 617-3112. org downtownpensacola.com century old Live Oaks decorated with Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade - Surfing Santa Beach Parade - Holiday floats illuminated snowflakes throughout the Bay St 11/23 - 12/24 (above) Details: 850-932-1500 or www. wind their way down Santa Rosa Island’s main Louis and Waveland, Miss. area. Downtown Pensacola Winterfest - Downtown pensacolabeachchamber.com street, with Santa riding atop his red fire engine! Bay St. Louis & Depot Row, Bay St. Louis. Pensacola, FL. Enjoy holiday perfromances, Totally Awesome 80' Holiday Parade in Gulf Via DeLuna to Casino Beach, Pensacola Beach, Open nightly. Details: 228-463-9222 or www. trolley tours, visits with Santa and more in Breeze - Gulf Breeze Chamber of Commerce FL. 2 p.m. Details: 850-932-1500 or www. mswestcoast.org celebrates 30 years with an 80's-style holiday pensacolabeachchamber.com Downtown Pensacola. Details: 850-583-1365 parade. 10 a.m. Details: 850-932-7888 or www. 12/8 or www.pensacolawinterfest.org 11/24 Coastal Half Marathon and 5K Run - cityofgulfbreeze.com 35th Annual Pensacola Christmas Parade - Spring 11/24 - 12/25 Kaiser Realty by Wyndham Vacation Rentals, Milton Christmas Parade – Floats, live music and & Garden Streets, Downtown Pensacola, FL. 5:15 Festival of Trees - Uniquely decorated Orange Beach Sportsplex, 4389 William Silvers more holiday fun! Begins at Milton Community p.m. Details: www.coxpensacolachristmasparade. Christmas trees from area non-profits Pkwy, Orange Beach, AL. Details: 615-460- Center on Byrom St.. Milton, FL. 6 p.m. Details: org remain in the park through Christmas. Grand 9927 or https://www.halfmarathons.net/ 850-623-2339 Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade - Begins Boulevard at SanDestin, 495 Grand Blvd., alabama-kaiser-realty-coastal-half-marathon- Christmas in the Park - Event includes Navarre at LuLu’s at Homeport Marina. Intracoastal Miramar Beach, FL. 4 to 6 p.m. Details: www. 5k-1-mile/ Community Christmas parade – Santa and the Waterway Canal, 5 to 8 p.m. Details: 251-981- visitsouthwalton.com/events/festival-of-trees Mrs. arrive by fire truck! Enjoy entertainment, 2300 or www.alabamacoastalchristmas.com 11/27 shop the marketplace and more. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Holiday Parade - 9100 Baytowne Blvd. #120, 11/24-25 Orange Beach Tree Lighting - Caroling, Navarre, FL. Details: www.navarrechamber.com Miramar Beach, FL. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Details: www. Creek Indian Celebration Days - 26th Christmas medleys from Gulf Shores Chorale baytownewharf.com nnual two-day event of intertribal dancing, and Brass Bands, the annual reading of the Christmas story and lighting of the tree. quarter. Enjoy authentic brunch/lunch Museum of Northwest Florida, 115 Marlin Circle, The Wharf. 5:30 to 7 p.m. and also experience the amazing Westview Ave, Valparaiso, FL. 10 a.m. to Details: www.alwharf.com culture! 5 p.m. Details: www.heritage-musuem. $55 Lot & Loxley Ala. pickups.$65 Mary org or 850-678-2615 11/29-12/2 and 12/5-9 Esther and Navarre, Fla. pickups Scrooge the Musical - A cavalcade of Details: 850-476-0046 12/9 Coast Stars kick off the Holiday Season Santa Drop –Santa parachutes onto at the Mary C O’Keefe! Mary C. O'Keefe 12/21 the beach to kickoff the holidays! Flora- Cultural Center of Arts & Education, Coast Big Band Holiday Show – Bama, 1740 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola, 1600 Government Street, Ocean Springs, Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center of Arts FL. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Details: www. Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-818-2878 or & Education, 1600 Government Street, florabama.com or 850-492-0611 www.themaryc.org Ocean Springs, Miss. 7:30 p.m. Details: 228-818-2878 or www.themaryc.org 11/30 - 12/24 Dauphin Island Holiday Events - The 12/5-19 island's 30th annual Christmas Pageant Wednesday Night Concert Series is 7 p.m. Nov. 30 at St. Edmunds Church - Get in the Holiday Spirit with some Hall. Enjoy the Annual Christmas Parade, of your favorite holiday classics Christmas Tree Lighting and more every Wednesday this December! throughout the holiday season. Details: Each Concert will feature a festive 251-861-5525 or townofdauphinisland. choreographed light show and visits org. with Santa. 6 p.m. Details: www. baytownewharf.com 12/7 - First Friday ArtWalk in Seaside 12/5-22 12/21-23 Ruskin Place & Central Square, Seaside, 12 Nights of Lights - Festive light The Nutcracker - The beloved holiday Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Live music, local show every Wed., Fri. and Sat. leading classic ballet set in a glistening winter art and artist demos at the galleries and up to Christmas! Live holiday music on wonderland. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. shops. Details: sowal.com/event/first- Wednesdays. Shows at 6, 7, and 8 p.m. Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL. Fri. and friday-artwalk-at-seaside Details: www.baytownewharf.com Sat., 7 p.m.; Sun. 1:30 p.m. 12/7-9 and 13-16 Details: 850-595-3880 or www. A Charlie Brown Christmas - A 12/6 pensacolasaenger.com holiday favorite comes to life onstage! 11th Annual Chocolate Affair 12/31 2022 West 2nd St., Gulf Shores, AL. - Gala event to benefit homeless Pensacola Symphony “Celebrate Details: 251-968-6721 or www.sbct.biz families with children. Silent and live auction items, desserts and heavy hors the New Year" - Saenger Theatre, 12/1-22 d’oeuvres, and live music. Foley Civic 118 S Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL. 7 Holiday Season at the Bragg- Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL., p.m. Details: 850-595-3880 or www. Mitchell Mansion, 1906 Springhill 6 p.m. Details: 251-947-7035 or www. pensacolasymphony.com Avenue, Mobile, AL. See the Mansion familypromisebc.org Moon Pie Drop - Downtown Mobile, in all its traditional holiday splendor. AL. Mobile kicks off the New Year with Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Details: 12/6-23 a giant, lighted Moon Pie. Details: www. www.braggmitchellmansion.com “It's a Wonderful Life” - Live mobilenewyear.com. production of the heart-warming Baytowne Countdown NYE – Family 12/1 holiday favorite. Emerald Coast Theatre friendly from 6 to 8 p.m. Ring in the Holiday Fresh Market - Shop for Company. Harborwalk Village Veranda New Year with fireworks displays at handcrafted Apalachicola baked goods, Room, 10 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL. 8 p.m. and midnight. Dance the night artwork, woodcarving, pottery and Details: www.emeraldcoasttheatre.com away with LIVE music till 1 a.m. Details: hand-knitted goods. Dixie Theatre, or 850-687-1637 www.baytownewharf.com Avenue E and Market St., Downtown 12/7 Kazoo's Rockin' Eve at Blue Apalachicola, FL. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wahoos Stadium - Includes the Details: www.apalachicolabay.org or Holiday Pops with the Northwest – Pensacola Pelican Drop, games, live 850-653-9419 Florida Symphony Orchestra Holiday carol performance and sing- music, fireworks and more for a night of 14th Annual Biloxi Christmas along. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 family-friendly fun. 6 p.m., Downtown in the City - Great entertainment College Boulevard East, Niceville, FL. Pensacola. featuring choirs, bands and dancers, New Year's Beach Ball Drop - pictures with Santa, and special Biloxi 7:30 p.m. Details: 850-729-6000 or www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.com. Panama City Beach - Join thousands treats Pusharattes. Rue Magnolia & of revelers at Pier Park to enjoy free Water Street - Downtown Biloxi Arts live music, entertainment, fireworks, District. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Details: 228- 12/7-8 – More and good cheer. Details: www. 435-6339 or www.mainstreetbiloxi.com 7th Annual Merry Market than 70 vendors with gifts galore! Free visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/new- Bay St. Louis Holiday Tour of admission. Orange Beach Event Center, years-eve-beach-ball-drop/ Homes - Six homes in historic Bay St. Louis festively decorated at the Wharf, Orange Beach, AL. 9 a.m. for the Holidays and a Christmas - 6 p.m. www.alabamacoastalchristmas. Boutique. Bay St Louis area. 1 to 4 com p.m. Details: 504-451-2823 or www. friendsoftheanimalshelter.org 12/8 Christmas through the Ages - Join 12/1 and 12/8 Soldiers from the past and their families Christmas Shopping in New Orleans as they celebrate Christmas. Fort Gaines Spend the day shopping in the French Historic Site, 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Quarter. Looking for a quick trip to just Island, AL. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Details: 251- get away for the day? You can take the 861-6992 or www.dauphinisland.org opportunity to get a one of kind Yule of Yesteryear – A Traditional shopping experience inside the french Christmas Festival at The Heritage 16 Get into the spirit with sounds of the season Music and theatre are among the most enjoyable ways to get into the holiday spirit. And there are a variety of top-notch performances coming up around the Holidays.

Joe Laundry’s “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” will be performed Dec. 6-23 by the talented crew at the Emerald Coast Theatre Company. The performances will be staged at ECTC’s performance space located at 560 Grand Boulevard (upstairs) in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, in Miramar Beach, Fla. The beloved American holiday classic is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. The story to comes to life staged as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings dozens of characters to the stage, and live, on-stage sound effects, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers a world in which he’d never been born one fateful Christmas Eve. A Foley artist will be on stage. Foley (named after sound-effects artist Jack Foley) is the reproduction of everyday sound effects that are added to film, video, and other media in post-production to enhance audio quality. These reproduced sounds can be anything from the swishing of clothing and footsteps to squeaky doors and breaking glass. Performances are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Running time is 90 minutes. Tickets are $30 for adults; $28 for seniors (55 years old and up) students, and military. Early arrivals are encouraged to browse the art gallery with proceeds from purchases used to help support the theatre. Tickets are available online at emeraldcoastheatre.org/tickets or call (850) 684-0323. Sinfonia Gulf Coast: With a tradition of “symphony redefined,” the region’s only fully professional symphony orchestra led by Music and Artistic Director Demetrius Fuller is in its 13th season. The annual holiday pops, a special tribute to Leonard Bernstein’s Broadway, to an animated finale featuring the zany characters of Steven Spielberg’s “Animaniacs.” Vocalist Chris Mann returns to the Sinfonia stage at Village Baptist Church 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 n the annual Holiday Pops. Mann, whose crystalline voice garnered his place as a finalist on NBC’s “The Voice,” along with rave reviews in the lead role of the national touring production of “Phantom of the Opera,” and two PBS full-length concerts: “Chris Mann in Concert: A Mann for All Seasons” and “Home for Christmas,” will join forces with Sinfonia’s full orchestra for a most magical concert of the holiday season, perfect for the entire family. Tickets range from $29.50 to $55 per person. And on Dec. 18, Sinfonia’s annual gala event will be held at The Henderson: A Beach & Spa Resort, and will feature singer/actress Jane Lynch. Lynch is an Emmy and Golden Globe-winner for her portrayal of Sue Sylvester on “Glee,” and is currently the two-time Emmy Award-winning host of NBC's “Hollywood Game Night.” For “A Swingin’ Little Christmas,” Jane brings along Kate Flannery (NBC’s “The Office”), Tim Davis (“Glee”), and The Tony Guerrero Quintet for the jazziest musical holiday concert you’ll ever experience. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes VIP pre-concert reception, dinner and the performance. Tickets range from $275 - $500 per person. Single tickets and tables of ten are available. Details: www.sinfoniagulfcoast.com CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST: The acclaimed Pensacola Children’s Chorus will present the annual Christmas on the Coast concert Dec. 7-9 at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre. Veterans of the program have gone on to careers in music and television. Tickets start at $22. Details: www.pensacolachildrenschorus.com. 17 Mobile to New Orleans: Plan a trip for holiday lights and shopping If you haven’t experienced it before, make this your year to tour Bellingrath Gardens and Home 23rd Magic Christmas in Lights in 2018. The dazzling nighttime display features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes, set out on a walking tour throughout the 65-acre Garden estate.

The show continues nightly from 5 to 9 p.m. through Dec. 31.

Magic Christmas in Lights has become a must-see tradition for visitors from the Gulf Coast region and beyond. Attendance has nearly doubled since 2000, rising from 35,309 that year to 69,000 in 2017. Families enjoy strolling along the paths LIGHTING OF THE BONFIRES: For a Christmas Eve treat, take together, taking holiday photos, drinking cocoa on Live Oak an overnight trip to New Orleans for a Bonfire Adventure tour. Plaza and visiting Santa Claus in the Magnolia Café. A line of motorcoaches travels along the Mississippi River to observe the Louisiana tradition of lighting bonfires to light Magic Christmas in Lights is a made-in-Alabama attraction. Cajun Santa “Papa Noel’s way. Each year, the set pieces for the holiday lights are designed and handmade on site by members of Bellingrath’s staff. Four of The 6.5-hour excursion includes a tour of San Francisco our employees work full-time Plantation. An elaborate dinner is served along with eggnog all year on the light display. and a souvenir. Cost for adults is $134. For details: 504-569-

1401 or 800-233-2628 or www.graylineneworleans.com. Magic Christmas in Lights also includes nightly choral For details about Magic Christmas in Lights, or to order tickets, visit bellingrath.org. performances on the South Terrace of the historic NEW ORLEANS SHOPPING: Good Time Tours is offering one- Bellingrath Home, which will day roundtrip holiday shopping excursions to New Orleans. be decorated in full holiday Trips are planned Dec. 1 and Dec. 8.

finery and open for guided The cost is $55 from GTT main lot and Loxley and $65 from tours each night until 8 p.m. Mary Esther and Navarre. The bus arrives New Orleans around The Home, built in 1936, 11 a.m. and leaves the city at 5:30 p.m. To reserve space and features the Bellingraths’ for details: 850-476-0046. original antique furniture and collections. 18 Fast cars, fast skates, fast passes keep Gulf Coast winter sports moving The Snowball Derby stock car race only one previous champion had entered – Saturday, Dec. 1 – Snowball Derby qualifier Single-game tickets range from $15 to $29. traditionally features drivers who are on their Steven Wallace, who won in 2004 and is the races, Snowflake (100 laps), Pro Truck (50 laps) Details: www.pensacolaiceflyers.com way to NASCAR stardom. son of famed NASCAR driver Rusty Wallace. Sunday, Dec. 2 -- Snowball Derby (300 laps), Chase Elliott and Erik Jones are two recent Bubba Pollard is one of those short track 2 p.m. Dollar General Bowl two-time winners of the prestigious race, drivers who has dominated in the Southeast Tickets -- $75 for 4-day pass; $45 Snowball The Dollar General Bowl college football game which will make its 51st run on Sunday, Dec. 2, over the last few years but hasn’t been able to Derby only celebrates its 20th season this year when at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida. convert that to a Snowball Derby title – yet. Details: www.fiveflagsspeedway.com they play at 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 22 at Ladd- Of course, an established NASCAR star took But drivers come from across the country Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala. the title last year as Kyle Busch won for the and beyond. Three drivers from Canada have Pensacola Ice Flyers hockey The bowl game was originally known as the second time in nine years. already entered. Others come as far away Snowbirds who like to watch hockey in Mobile Alabama Bowl (1999). From 2000-2010 As of press time, none of these had as New York, New Hampshire, Michigan, their northern climes can get a taste of it in became the GMAC Bowl after GMAC Financial committed to racing in the event, always held California and Washington. Pensacola with the Pensacola Ice Flyers. Services. In 2011 GoDaddy became the title the first Sunday in December. The team is entering its 10th season in the sponsor. But that doesn’t mean the race has any less Snowball Derby Schedule Southern Professional Hockey League. The Ice The game matches teams from the Sun luster. Historically, NASCAR superstars rarely Wednesday, Nov. 28 – Pure Stock (50 laps) Flyers last won the league title in 2016. Belt Conference and the Mid-American bested the regional drivers who race on short Thursday, Nov. 29 – Sportsman (50 laps), The league features up-and-coming young Conference. tracks throughout the country on a weekly Outlaw Stock (50 laps), Snowball and players, trying to make their way toward the Last year Appalachian State shut out Toledo basis. Snowflake practice NHL. The ten teams in the league come as far 34-0. In fact, this year is setting up to have a first- Friday, Nov. 30 – Snowball Derby qualifying, north as Indiana and Illinois and throughout Tickets range from $15 to $45 and are time Snowball Derby winner. As of press time, Modified B Main (20 laps), Modified (75 laps) the Southeast. available at www.dollargeneralbowl.com.

Dec. 7 Teddy Bear Toss Night

Dec. 8 Christmas/Elf Night

Dec. 27 Polar Express Night Jan. 12, Jan. 26, Feb. 2 and Feb. 23 Dec. 29 Military Appreciation 19

WELCOME SNOWBIRDS TO

THE SUNSET CAPITAL OF ALABAMA™

Welcome, snowbirds, to this special place known as Dauphin Island. Our little island in the southwest tip of Alabama is noted for its breathtaking Dauphinsunsets, pristineIsland, beaches, walking and biking trails, bird sanctuaries, charter fishing boats, ferry across Mobile Bay, outdoor recreation and historic sites. Locally owned boutiques, restaurants and gift shops dot the island, adding to its old-fashioned, charming atmosphere.

When you visit Dauphin Island, you can also golf; rent bicycles, kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards; take a nature tour, a dolphin watch boat ride, a lighthouse cruise or a sunset cruise; and visit our two art galleries. In addition, you won’t want to miss Fort Gaines, built in the early 19th century. And don’t forget that Dauphin Island is home to a 137-acre Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Bring your fishing poles, too, because our island holds a special place in the hearts of fishermen and boaters.

When you’re ready to relax, Dauphin Island restaurants offer fresh, locally caught seafood and other specialties. Then, at the end of every day, you’ll find yourself looking to the west to watch Mother Nature paint the sky.

• Dauphin Island Christmas Parade, 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 1. December• Fort Gaines “Christmas Through the Ages,” 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. • Dauphin Island Chamber Island Christmas Tree Lighting, 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8.

January• Bellingrath Gardens’ Winter Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday in January.

• Krewe de la Dauphine Mardi Gras Parade, 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2. February• Dauphin Island People’s Parade, 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9. • Dauphin Island Chamber of Commerce “Mardi Paws” Parade, Saturday, Feb. 16 (time to be announced). • Bellingrath Gardens’ Winter Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday in February.

Town of Dauphin Island South Mobile County Dauphin Island Chamber of Commerce Tourism Authority - townofdauphinisland.org - - dauphinislandchamber.com - - visitsomo.com - 20

Music, magic and holiday fun at Beau Rivage A not-to-miss tradition has developed along choral groups will echo freely throughout the of four tickets start at $40 plus tax and their representatives during their annual the Mississippi Gulf Coast – the annual Beau atrium from 5-7 p.m. nightly, Dec. 15-24. service charge by using code: CHRISTMAS, holiday trunk shows.

Rivage Resort & Casino family-friendly holiday and hotel packages start at $99 and include Christmas comes alive with the holiday Santa and friends host an exclusive Christmas celebration. accommodations for one night and two show production show Christmas Dreams, brunch from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at BR tickets using code: HOLIDAY18. Kids 12 and “Our guests are captivated by our festive performing in the Beau Rivage Theatre Prime’s with special moments with Santa, under eat free in the Beau Rivage Buffet when holiday displays and variety of entertainment,” Dec. 15-27. The story of a young boy who along with an expansive presentation of a show ticket stub is presented. said Beau Rivage Vice President of Marketing doesn’t believe in Santa is told by an award- fresh seafood, prime rib, live action stations, Brandon Dardeau. “We begin preparations winning cast of professional ice skaters, Take in the sights and sounds of Beau Rivage traditional breakfast offerings and delectable months in advance, and it brings our team singers and cirque performers who guide at the annual Holiday Open House, Dec. holiday pastries. Brunch with Santa pricing is great joy to spread holiday cheer to visitors the boy with a special magic that only the 11-15 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. in the Beau Rivage $65 per person, $25 for children 3-12, children from throughout the country that visit during holidays can deliver. Tickets start at $12.95 shopping promenade. Browse the impressive two and under eat free, tax and gratuity the holidays.” plus tax and service charge. Show times are window displays for unique gift ideas and included. Reservations can be made by calling

3 p.m. and 7 p.m. throughout the run of the meet more than a dozen artisans, vendors and 888.750.7111. The spectacular holiday theme is on display show, including performances on Christmas through Jan. 3, featuring stunning larger- Eve and Christmas Day. Christmas Dreams than-life nutcrackers, magnificent oversized special offers are available throughout the ornaments, frost-covered resort. Packages trees, classic winter scenes, and thousands of white and red poinsettias.

The celebration kicks off Nov. 23 with Martina McBride’s Joy of Christmas tour with a 42-piece orchestra and conductor. The Beau Rivage Symphony Series continues one week later when Johnny Mathis with special guest Gary Mule Deer perform two Christmas symphony concerts on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Ballet leaps onto the stage Nov. 25 with its rendition of The Nutcracker at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Two special performances of Christmas with Aaron Neville will fill the theatre on Dec. 6 and Dec. 7. Tickets for all performances are available at www.beaurivage. com or 888.567.6667. A new feature this year, sounds of the season performed by local 21 8 p.m., Beau Rivage Brandon Bennett, IP Casino Resort & Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. Resort & Spa, Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, 12/29 Casino, Biloxi, Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. A Night of Laughter, Music&Magic 875 12/16 Starring Jeffrey Tam, IP Casino Resort Beach The Nutcracker, IP Casino Resort & Spa, & Spa, Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, Blvd, Biloxi, Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Biloxi, Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. Miss., Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. KC & The Sunshine Band, Hard Rock Details: 12/21 Casino 777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, Miss. 888-566- Cirque Musica Holiday Presents Details: (877) 877-6256 or (228) 374-7625 7469 or www. Wonderland, IP Casino Resort & Spa, or www.hardrockbiloxi.com beaurivage. Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Better Than Ezra, 8 p.m., Beau Rivage com Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. Resort & Casino, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, 12/1 12/22 Miss., Details: 888-566-7469 or www. Matt Franco, IP Jewel’s Handmade Holiday Tour, beaurivage.com Casino Resort & IP Casino Resort & Spa, Studio A, 12/31 Spa, Studio A, 850 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Miss. 8 p.m. The Molly Ringwalds, 8 p.m., Beau Rivage Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Miss. 8 Details: 228-436-3000. Resort & Casino, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, Casino Fun p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. 12/28 Miss., Details: 888-566-7469 or www. 12/6 Diamond Rio, IP Casino Resort & Spa, beaurivage.com11/24 11/23 Aaron Neville, 8 p.m., Beau Rivage Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Martina McBride, 8 p.m., Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, Resort & Casino, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, Miss., Details: 888-566-7469 or www. Miss., Details: 888-566-7469 or www. beaurivage.com beaurivage.com 12/7 11/30 Jeffrey Osborne, IP Casino Resort & Spa, Joel McHale, 8 p.m. Hard Rock Casino Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, 777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, Miss. Details: Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. (877) 877-6256 or (228) 374-7625 or 12/8 www.hardrockbiloxi.com The Righteous Brothers, 8 p.m. Hard The Not So Silent Night Tour Ft. Phil Rock Casino 777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, Miss. Vasser & Lonestar, IP Casino Resort Details: (877) 877-6256 or (228) 374-7625 & Spa, Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, or www.hardrockbiloxi.com Biloxi, Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. Jo Koy, IP Casino Resort & Spa, Studio A, Jamey Johnson, IP Casino Resort & Spa, 11/30 - 12/1 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Miss. 8 p.m. Studio A, 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi, Johnny Mathis with Special Guest Gary Details: 228-436-3000. Miss. 8 p.m. Details: 228-436-3000. Mule Deer Christmas Concert 2018, 12/14-15 22 Find your copy of 23 Sean of the South: Under Qualified Hartford, Alabama—a Future Farmers of America Snowbirds Gulf Coast! banquet. I am about to speak for a group Snowbirds Gulf Coast prints four editions each winter: Holiday, January, February and of Minnesotans. These are rural people with Spring that are distributed regionally from Panama City Beach, Fla., west along the Northern accents. Gentle people who know how Florida panhandle to the Alabama Gulf Coast and Biloxi Visitor Center. to handle large animals, and how to milk them. We also push out pdf versions of the print edition through our e-newsletter (sign I’ve never performed before any Minnesotans up online) and Facebook page: Snowbirds Gulf Coast (“Like” the page to receive before. In fact, I don’t know much about information.) Find us at more than 300 condo lobbies and RV parks, plus dozens of Minnesota, except that it’s somewhere below the golf courses, restaurants, medical facilities and attractions from Panama City to the Arctic Circle. Alabama Gulf Coast. The truth is, I don’t know why anyone would ask All ResortQuest locations Navarre Beach Visitor Information Center me to speak over a microphone at all. Area libraries, senior centers Panama City Beach Visitor Center Panama The first time I ever got on stage, I was seven. I Enjoy An Evening with Sean of the South All Southern Vacation locations City Chamber sang at our church. It was a Wednesday night. I December 6 at the charming Imogene Theatre Biloxi Visitor Center Pensacola Beach Visitor Center was so nervous I nearly puked. My father gave in Milton! Join us as we welcome Sean to our Bodenhamer Center, Gulf Shores Pensacola Visitor Center me some sound advice beforehand: community, and show support to the many Dauphin Island Chamber of Commerce Perdido Key Visitor Center “Imagine the entire audience in their underpants,” families impacted by Hurricane Michael. Destin Chamber of Commerce Sandpiper Cove he said. This event benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters Destin West Coast Convention and Visitor Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce “Do what?” Panama City as they help Gulf Coast families Center Seaspray “That’s right,” he went on. “Pretend they’re all recover from the storm. This event will be Destin Community Center (Snowbird Club Village Baptist Church, Destin wearing underwear.” filled with good ole’ country Christmas fun! Roost) Walton County Visitor Information Center This, he claimed, would take the sting out of Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins Destin United Methodist Church (Walton my nervousness and help me remember that Gulf Coast at 7 p.m. Imogene Theatre, 6866 Caroline St., Snowbird Meetings) everyone is virtually the same beneath the Milton, Fla. Eastern Shore (Al) Chamber of Commerce surface. Details: www. theimogenetheatre.com Fort Walton Beach Recreation Center (FWB It sounded like a good idea. And it might have Club locale) BIRDS worked if the front pews hadn’t been filled with When I first started, I used to get so nervous— Mobile Visitor Center Snow members of the women’s Bible study group. and I’m not proud of this— I would close my Because when I envisioned twenty-one elderly eyes while I spoke. Eventually I got over this bad women of virtue in their tighty-whities, I choked. habit, and I rarely get nervous anymore. But a lot Thank you to all of our Snowbirds Gulf Coast partners! My Aunt Eulah was in the front row, smiling. I of people still remember the old days. Show your support by patronizing our advertisers! Tell them Snowbirds Gulf Coast sent you! We are grateful to couldn’t help but visualize her wearing a granny Once, I spoke in Franklin, Tennessee. Before I our loyal partners who have helped bring this magazine to you for the past 13 years! girdle, nylons, and a military-grade underwire. went on stage, a fifteen-year-old girl and her I was supposed to sing “Rock of Ages” that father visited me in the dressing room. The girl Adventures Unlimited & Zipline ResortQuest Gulf Coast Distro Data Wednesday, but I ended up singing “Honky Tonk asked if I was legally blind. Alabama Lifestyles Expo Fort Walton Beach Winter Guest Fest Royal American/Boardwalk Beach Woman.” “Legally blind?” I said. “No, why would you ask Baptist Health Care Good Time Tours Resort Anyway, this is a yearly thing here in Hartford. that?” Andrews Institute GT's on the Bay Saltwater Vacations Every November, high-schoolers from Hartford’s “Because,” she said. “A long time ago, you told Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Holiday Isle Properties Santa Rosa County Tourism sister city in Litchfield, Minnesota, visit this town stories at my school with your eyes closed the Bellingrath Gardens & Home Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis Santa Rosa Island Authority to experience life in the South. whole time.” Bistro 98 - Gulf Breeze Juana's Pagodas Seaspray Condominiums Tonight, I am seated at a table with some “I’m not blind,” I told her. “I just get nervous.” Boomtown Casino Biloxi Luna's Sinfonia Gulf Coast of these quiet Minnesotans. We are eating She took my hand and I’ll never forget her words: BuzzCatz Magnolia Grill - Fort Walton Beach Southern Resort Vacations downhome cuisine, sipping sweet tea. My new “You don’t have to be nervous, just don’t freakin’ Center for Lifelong Learning National Naval Aviation Museum Sterling Resort Vacations friends do not know what sweet tea is. screw up. Okay?” Emerald Coast Native Cafe Swift-Coles Historic Home They have also never eaten collards, hog head Right. Dauphin Island Navarre Beach Snowbirds Club The Grove 55+ Active Community souse, rag bologna, pickled okra, field corn, Her advice must’ve worked, because I don’t close Dentrement Dental Needle Rush Point Condos Visit Coastal Alabama/Dauphin Island zipper peas, pear salad, or a boiled peanut. my eyes anymore. I don’t need to. I’m changing Destin West North Beach Cottages Visit Jackson County They use words which I have never heard before. inside. Maybe I’m starting to grow into my paws, El Matador Condominiums Palace Casino Resort Visit Panama City Beach Words like: “Youbetcha.” like my mother always said I would. Maybe I’m Perdido Bay Golf Pensacola Beach Community Church Visit Washington County And: “Don’chaknow?” getting older, or more comfortable in my own Gulf Coast Wind Creek – Atmore And in extreme cases: “OOF DUH!” skin. I don’t know. I asked what “OOF DUH!” meant. What I DO know is that nobody expected much My new friends explained: “It’s what we’d say out of me. And I never expected much from SnowBIRDS when we hit our thumb with a hammer. We myself, either. But here I am, speaking at a small- shout, ‘OOF DUH!’ Don’t you have words like that town banquet, eating smoked pork chops, and I here?” am so grateful it hurts. “We do,” I point out. “But most of ours have four I am grateful to be here. I am grateful to tell letters.” stories about my culture, my family, and about It is almost time for me to take the stage. And the words my people say when they hit their suddenly, I am getting nervous. thumbs with hammers. I’ve been speaking and telling stories for few I am grateful for Minnesotans. And for my friends years now. But I’m going to admit something to who believed in an underachieving redhead. you: I have no idea what I’m doing. Above all, I am grateful that I don’t get as I tell stories that are supposed to make people nervous as I used to. Christmas Eve service laugh. But it’s a hit-and-miss kind of job. The woman at the podium announces my name. Sometimes, people laugh. Other times, I find People clap. 5 p.m., Dec. 24 myself in a Presbyterian church speaking to folks Wish me luck. who I’m not quite certain are actually breathing. And let’s pray that Aunt Eulah is wearing a girdle I was not meant to do this sort of work. In fact, tonight. I probably shouldn’t be doing it. A guy like me is under qualified. Hence, the nervousness. 24