Activities for the week of November 15-21

TODAY

Sinfonia Gulf Coast 

DESTIN - Travel back in time with Sinfonia Gulf Coast in the debut of Classical Connections on Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church at 4325 Commons 

Dr. W. Daniel Alfred Wachs, guest conductor and pianist, will play and conduct from the piano in Beethoven’s first piano concerto. Maestro Demetrius Fuller brings the performance to a close in the regional premier of Beethoven’s fourth symphony. 

For more information, or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 267-1478 or visit online at www.sinfoniagulfcoast.org.

Blue Angels

NAS PENSACOLA-The Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, will close the 2008 season at their annual Homecoming Air Show aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola on Nov. 15. There will be several fly-by appearances of various aircraft. Along with the incredible flying demonstrations, more than 50 military and civilian aircraft will be on display. 

Gates will open at 8 a.m. with the show starting at 9:45 a.m. Show is open to the public. Admission and parking are free. Areas will be reserved for the physically challenged. 

Food, beverages and memorabilia will be available at numerous concession stands. Pets, coolers and smoking are not permitted. Security personnel and signs will direct spectators to parking areas near the show site. 

Visitors are encouraged to use the West Gate (Blue Angel Parkway) to ease traffic congestion. For more information, contact the NAS Pensacola Public Affairs Office at (850) 452-3100, ext 1539, 1540 and 1534.

Shades of a Rose

SANTA ROSA BEACH – The Pro Arte Chorale of Northwest Florida proudly presents “Shades of a Rose” on Nov. 15 and 16. 

This concert will gift the listeners with the exhilarating “Magnificat” by John Rutter. The Chorale will also perform Rene Clausen’s “There Is No Rose,” Craig Courtney’s “Herself a Rose,” Benjamin Britten’s “A Hymn to the Virgin,” and several other lovely selections. The concert will feature Elaine Matson, Guest Cellist and Lois Van Dam, Accompanist. 

The performance on Nov. 15 will be presented at 7 p.m. at The Community Church, 3524 US Highway 98 West, Santa Rosa Beach, FL. 

A $10 donation is suggested at the door. The Pro Arte Chorale strives to bring a variety of well-known classics and new music to the public. For further information about the Chorale, call 267-3714 or email us at prorate.srb@gmail.com.

Canine Carnival

SANTA ROSA BEACH - The Alaqua Animal Refuge will host Gulf Place Annual Canine Carnival on Nov. 15 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Gulf Place Shopping Center on Highway 30A, sponsored by the DogSmith and Pet Butler. There will be canine activities, demonstrations, vendors, animal adoptions, food and drinks and live music. Several members of the Muscogee Nation of Florida will be in attendance. In full costume, the members of this more than 150-year-old tribe will perform by playing traditional Native American flute music. Arrive early to receive registration bags with cards and doggie gifts. Contact Laurie Hood at 880-6399 or visit www.alaquaanimalrefuge.com. 

Sounds of the Season

NICEVILLE - The Niceville High School Director of Bands Daniel Wooten and members of the Niceville Eagle Pride Band present the 3rd annual Sounds of the Stadium at 7 p.m. Saturday at Northwest Florida State College. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.; the concert begins at 7 p.m. The NHS Wind Ensemble will be featured during the first half of the show. There is no charge for admission however donations will be accepted at the door after the concert and are greatly appreciated. For more information on the Eagle Pride Marching Band, visit nhseaglepride.com.

Arts-Crafts-Stuff sale

Carillon Beach - Carillon Beach Resort will hold the first Arts-Crafts-Stuff sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 15 on Market Street in Downtown Carillon Beach.

Vendors will have a wide variety of first class original art pieces,  handiwork and crafts in a various mediums, “gently” used items ranging from household furnishings,  jewelry, clothing, sporting equipment, glassware, antiques, and more.

Trans Am 

Regional Show

FORT WALTON BEACH - The Southern Trans Am Regional Show happens this year at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds on Nov. 14-16. All Firebirds, Formulas, Trans Ams, GTAs and Firehawks are invited. Dash plaques will go to the first 100 entrants, and first-, second- and third-place awards will go to the winners. Food, drinks and music will be available, along with a swap meet and items for sale by vendors. They’ll also have door prizes and a 50/50 drawing. Entry fee is $50 in advance, or $60 the weekend of the show. For information call 863-9616 or e-mail info@starsfl.org.

And Then There Were None

PENSACOLA - One of best-selling mystery writer Agatha Christie’s most acclaimed works, “And Then There Were None,” opened at Pensacola Little Theatre in Nov.14. 

In the play, a group of people receive a mysterious invitation to enjoy a holiday on Soldier Island. Tension mounts as a killer begins picking off the guests one by one. 

Tickets are $22, $18 and $15, with discounts available for seniors (60+), active-duty military, full-time students, and groups of 10 or more. 

On Nov. 15, 21 and 22, the show begins at 8 p.m. On Nov. 16 and 23, the curtain goes up at 2:30 p.m. On Theatre Thursday, Nov. 20, the show begins at 7 p.m. and all tickets for that performance only are half price. 

To purchase advance tickets, visit our Box Office at 400 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola or call the PLT Box Office at 432-2042.

Act4Murder Knock 'Em Dead

FORT WALTON BEACH - Join Act4Murder at Pandora's (1226 Santa Rosa Blvd.) on Nov. 15, at a comedy murder mystery event to raise money for Horizons of Okaloosa County. 

Horizons provide services to both children and adults with disabilities in our community. Learn more about Horizons at www.horizonsfwb.com. 

The doors open at 6:15 p.m. and the show is at 7 p.m. 

The show, Knock 'Em Dead, revolves around today's big-name Divas, Augusta Wind, Marion Haste and Royal Payne, who can't stand each other but love all media attention, and will do anything to get the attention they crave.

A delicious three-course dinner, including a buffet of Prime Rib Au Jus, Chargrilled Grouper, and Chicken Marsala, will be served during the presentation of the show. 

The cost is $70 per person. Make your reservations early by calling Julie McNabb at 685-5301 or 863-1530, ext. 224. Additional details can be found at www.act4murder.com. 

Sunday

Brews, Blues and BBQ

DESTIN – The public is invited to participate in the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s annual fall fundraiser on Nov. 16 from 2-8 p.m. at the HarborWalk Village. Brews, Blues and BBQ cook off at a dockside beer tasting hosted by the Northwest Florida Chapter. Participating restaurants will have the opportunity to market their menu to over 200 guests and compete in a spirited and fun competition. The perfect blend of everything FUN about fall on the coast: great food, fun live entertainment, and refreshing craft beers and cocktails. For information on how you can be involved with this great event: Contact jamiemarie@cox.net or call 585-5451.

The Indian In the Cupboard

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS – The Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood Foundation invites everyone to another classic family movie. 

The movie for November is "The Indian In the Cupboard." The movie will be shown on Nov. 16 at 2 p.m. at the historic Chautauqua Building on Circle Drive. 

Admission is free and everyone is invited for an old-fashioned matinee appropriate for all ages. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 12. Refreshments will be available for purchase. 

The Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood Foundation is a non-profit organization and all donations are gratefully accepted. All proceeds will be earmarked for the installation of a much-needed elevator in the Chautauqua Building. For more information, call 892-9634.

Monday

Jazz Gumbo

PENSACOLA - The regular third-Monday Jazz Gumbo event will be on Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Seville Quarter Entertainment Complex. 

Sandy Spivey will be the feature saxophonist. Accompanying him will be new parents pianist/vocalist Cynthia Domulot and drummer Fred Domulot along with bassist Dr. Bob Andrews. Sandy was a featured performer for several years with a US Air Force Band. Currently he is director of a school for the arts and is a frequent “first-call” saxophonist with area performers. 

Admission for the Jazz Gumbo is $7 for JSOP members, $10 for guest, and $5 for students and free for military in uniform. A cup of complimentary seafood gumbo comes with admission. One may order from a limited menu. Call 433-8382 or 432-9743.

Nazareth at The Block

On Nov. 18, Nazareth is coming to The Block as part of its 40th Anniversary Tour. Featuring original members lead singer Dan McCafferty and bass player Pete Agnew, the band also includes guitarist Jimmy Murrison since 1994 and drummer Lee Agnew since 1999. Doors open at 6 p.m. with Texas Hippie Coalition taking the stage at 7:30. Nazareth is expected to perform about 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. According to the Web site (theblockclub.com), tickets can be purchased seven days a week after 5 p.m. in the karaoke part of the club, which is at 113 S.E. Eglin Parkway in Fort Walton Beach. Tickets also can be reserved by calling 301-9393.

Wednesday

Wednesday Night Concerts

SANDESTIN - Free concerts from 7-9 p.m. in the Plaza on main stage at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. Call 267-8117.

Thursday

Hometown 

Heroes

DESTIN - Celebrate every Thursday at HarborWalk Village as each week a local hero is honored at 7 p.m. Local entertainers and fireworks over the Destin Harbor begins every Thursday at 8:30 p.m. Visit www.harborwalkdestin.com for more information.

Friday

Wine Tasting

SANDESTIN - Raise a glass to fall with hand-selected vintages showcased by Sandestin Wine World as part of the shop’s weekly Wine Tasting at 5 p.m. every Friday. Cost is $10/person. Call 622-0802.

First Arts 

Concert Season

FORT WALTON BEACH - Veteran virtuoso Tony Trischka enlists the services of fellow banjoists and bluegrass instrumentalists to open the First Arts Concert Season on Nov. 21. 

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church in downtown Fort Walton Beach. 

You can reserve your seats for all 5 season concerts by purchasing season tickets. Tickets for individual concerts are available in advance for $12 for adults and $6 for students under 18. Tickets at the door, as available, will be $15 for adults and $8 for students. 

Tickets Available at: Destin-Pavlic’s Unique Florist, Sandestin-Kitchenique, Niceville-Bayou Books, FWB-Playground Music, PS Gifts, and First United Methodist Church, 103 1st St. SE, FWB. Call 243-9292 or 243-6083.

Florida 

Chautauqua Theatre

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS - The Florida Chautauqua Theatre presents “Arch the Angel” at 7 p.m. Nov. 21 and 22 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 23 at the theater, 8498 Baldwin Ave. in DeFuniak Springs. Tickets are $15/adults and $12/students 22 and under. Call 892-9494.

Beaujolais 

Nouveau 

Festival

PENSACOLA - It’s time for the 3rd Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Festival on Nov. 20 from 6-8 p.m. at La Maison d'Elodie, inc. 

Taste and Buy the Beaujolais Nouveau same day it is release in France, it will be air freighted that day. Going GREEN this year? Buy a bottle and Plant a Tree Program. Wine tasting fee is $15 per person including the French Onion Soup of Lyon, prizes to win and live French music. 

Call for reservations today as space is limited. La Maison d'Elodie, inc. 824 East La Rua Street, Pensacola, Florida 32501. Call 433-6427 or visit Website wwww.lamaisondelodie.com.

Friday Dance Night

NAVARRE - The third Friday of every month is Dance Night in Navarre. A new group of seasoned musicians featuring Joe Occhipinti on sax, "Night Moods," provide the accompaniment. The next dance is Nov 21, from 7:30-10 p.m. at the E H Pullum Senior Center, across the street from the Navarre Library. 

It is Open to all ages. Bring snacks for the refreshment table. Soft drinks and punch will be provided. Tickets are $10 at the door, or $ 8 in advance, and can be purchased in advance at the center any weekday morning between 9 a.m. and noon. For more information call 936-1644.

Upcoming

Emerald Coast Concert 

Association

FORT WALTON BEACH - The Emerald Coast Concert Association presents “Sounds of Big Band Swing” by the White Sands Orchestra featuring the music of big-band legends Glenn Miller, Stan Kenton, Les Elgart, Count Basie and more at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 22 at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium. For information on tickets and memberships, call 362-9356.

Northwest 

Florida Ballet

NICEVILLE - The Northwest Florida Ballet presents the Nutcracker at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 22 and 2 p.m. Nov. 23 at the Mattie Kelly Fine & Performing Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College, Niceville, Mainstage.

Inaugural 

Nutcracker Wine Tasting

FORT WALTON BEACH – To support the Northwest Florida Ballet and Le Boutique du Ballet, the 2008 Inaugural Nutcracker Wine Tasting will be held on Nov. 29 from 2-5 p.m. The event will take place at Fountain Square, 196 Miracle Strip Parkway behind Fokker's Sports Pub. Featuring 26 wines, cigars, specialty cheese, jewelry, art and NFB Boutique Items and is sponsored by Stella and Carolina Cigars on the Coast. Tickets are currently available at the Northwest Florida Ballet, Stella and Carolina Cigars on the Coast at $20 per person. For more information, contact Jennifer Tate at 664-7787.

Big Green Egg

MARY ESTHER - The Big Green Egg University will host a cooking class on Nov. 22 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Master Barbeque Chef and developer of Love Meat Tender Barbeque Products, John Miller and Clark Williams will show you how to cook the perfect turkey, Boston butt, brisket and numerous other items on the Big Green Egg. The event will be at Furniture Resources at 211 Jonquil Ave. (behind Sun Plaza Movie Theater). For the $5 enrollment fee you will receive a $15 Publix gift card, samples of different types of smoking woods and a sample of John Miller’s Love Meat Tender Rub product. For information or reserving a seat, call 243-3533.