130602186865250000 Lagniap

2 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 LAGNIAPPE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• WEEKLY November 13, 2014 – November 19, 2014 | www.lagniappemobile.com

Ashley Trice BAY BRIEFS Co-publisher/Editor Wafflegate in Bayou la Batre as mayor’s [email protected] parking accident is covered and Rob Holbert smothered in controversy. Co-publisher/Managing Editor 6 [email protected] Steve Hall COMMENTARY Marketing/Sales Director With the numbers in, it appears Mobile [email protected] County’s proposed soccer complex is in Gabriel Tynes for a difficult birth. Assistant Managing Editor 14 [email protected] Dale Liesch BUSINESS Reporter ServisFirst Bank makes a move to [email protected] downtown Mobile. Jason Johnson Reporter 18 [email protected] Alyson Stokes CUISINE Web & Social Media Manager/Reporter [email protected] Conception Street’s

Kevin Lee CONTENTS Cotton State BBQ Associate Editor/Arts Editor delivers no-frills Southern [email protected] staples a number of Andy MacDonald Cuisine Editor different ways. [email protected] Stephen Centanni Music Editor [email protected] J. Mark Bryant Sports Writer [email protected] 20 Daniel Anderson Chief Photographer COVER [email protected] Nick Vujicic, who was Laura Rasmussen born without arms or legs, Art Director inspires others to “love www.laurarasmussen.com 26 without limits.” He’ll speak Brooke Wilder Advertising Sales Executive at the Bay of the Holy [email protected] Spirit Jubilee Friday, Nov. Beth Williams 14 at Fairhope United Advertising Sales Executive [email protected] Methodist Church, a fundraiser for the Good Life Beth McKee Advertising Sales Executive Foundation. [email protected] Melissa Schwarz ARTS Editorial Assistant The annual pile up on the autumn auto- [email protected] bahn crashes us all. Contributors: Asia Frey • Brian Holbert 28 Susan Larsson • Ron Sivak Jeff Poor • Jennifer McDonald Casandra Andrews • Clyde Foster MUSIC The Deluxe Trio, a On the Cover: Nick Vujicic recent fixture at Callaghan’s Irish Social

LAGNIAPPE (USPS 20) is published weekly, Club every Wednesday 52 issues a year, Volume 12, Issue 39, every Thursday by Something, Extra Publishing, Inc. night, expects to Entered at the Mobile Post Office, 250 St. Joseph St, Mobile, AL, 36601. release their debut Periodicals postage paid at Mobile Post Office, album “Nobody Don’t 250 St Joseph St., Mobile, AL 36601 and other locations. Know” Dec. 1. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Editorial, advertising and production offices are located at 1102A Dauphin St. 34 Mobile, AL 36604. Mailing address is P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Phone: 251.450.4466 Fax 251.450.4498. Email: ashley- [email protected] or FILM [email protected] Gia Coppola’s directorial feature debut LAGNIAPPE is printed at Signature Offset, 2610 Lakeview Road, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. “Palo Alto” lacks originality from niece All letters sent to Lagniappe are considered to be intended for publication. 38 to shining niece. Member: Association of Alternative Newsweek- lies and Alternative Weeklies Network All rights reserved. Something Extra Publishing, MEDIA Inc. Nothing may be reprinted, photocopied or in any way reproduced without the expressed Trying to define a news source. permission of the publishers. Individuals may take one copy of the paper free of charge from area businesses, racks or boxes. After that, papers are $3 per issue. Removal of more than one copy 40 from these points constitutes theft. Violators are subject to prosecution. SPORTS Help support Lagniappe Weekly by becoming a “Friend with Benefits.” Kelli Hillier leaves St. Paul’s volleyball Scan this code for more info: after 14 seasons, 607 wins and two 42 consecutive state titles. STYLE Fancy and Sexy: this week in the life of 50 Boozie Beer Nues.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 3 police Dispatch Discovery of body parts leads to Baldwin murder investigation BY ALYSON STOKES/REPORTER | [email protected]

The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to “hotspot” for drug activity. block of Ridge Street and located by officers at approximately investigate what officials believe to be a homicide after human Gray attempted to flee and pulled out a stolen semi-auto- 9:30 a.m., MPD spokesman officer Terence Perkins said. remains were located in different areas of Magnolia Springs. matic handgun as officers gave chase, MPD spokeswoman According to Perkins, officers observed injuries on the boy On Nov. 9, investigators were called to the scene after a dog Ashley Rains said. that were consistent with abuse. The Department of Human discovered a human arm near the end of Lipscomb Road, with According to Rains, officer Matthew Winston then drew his Resources was notified and responded to assist with the inves- a bearing a distinct Tungsten ring. Baldwin County Sheriff weapon, fired one shot and struck Gray in the leg. tigation, he said. Huey “Hoss” Mack confirmed Nov. 10 a torso was found Gray was taken into custody and transported to USA Medi- Perkins said the boy and two of his sisters were released by beneath Weeks Creek Bridge, noting the body parts likely cal Center for minor injuries, she said. DHS to a family member. belonged to the same person. Winston, who has been with MPD for approximately three According to records from the Mobile County Sheriff’s Of- Search crews late into the evening of Nov. 10 recovered years, was not injured in the altercation, according to Rains. fice, Bellard Sr. was charged with willful abuse of a child and other body parts, including a head, according to the BCSO. Authorities said Internal Affairs and MPD’s Homicide Unit released on bail. Booking records show Bellard Sr. is sched- Authorities said the victim was a white male over the age are conducting an investigation into the officer-involved shoot- uled to appear in court Nov. 19. of 60, with a pacemaker and a unique mole on the right side of ing. Additional charges are pending, Perkins said. his face. Investigators are asking anyone who has any information to Body found near I-65’s Dauphin Street exit Daphne student arrested for electronic solicita- contact the BCSO. Mobile police have confirmed the body of a female was tion of a child discovered near the Dauphin Street overpass on I-65 during the Daphne High School Man shot by MPD officer faces multiple charges early morning hours of Nov. 10. student Alphonse Malone, Jail records show the According to MPD spokesman officer Terence Perkins, the Jr., 18, was arrested and man who was shot by death is being investigated as a suicide and there is no evidence charged Nov. 6 for elec- Mobile police after pointing of criminal activity or foul play. tronic solicitation of a child a stolen gun at an officer MPD did not release the female’s identity. after a medical call led last week was booked into police to investigate, linking Mobile County Metro Jail Mobile man charged him to the case. Nov. 8. with child abuse After a school resource Terrance Gray, 30, was Mobile police Nov. 8 officer contacted Malone, arrested and charged with arrested the parent of a run- evidence revealed he was third degree receiving sto- away teen for child abuse. texting a female under the len property, failure to obey, According to officials, age of 15 and attempted menacing and attempting Marcus Bellard Sr. was to exchange narcotics for to elude police. He was arrested after his 14-year- sexual favors, according to released on bond. old son told officers he ran Malone, Jr. investigators. According to MPD away from home because While it has not been Gray officials, officers with his father was physically determined if any narcotics or sexual favors for narcotics were the Mobile County Street abusing him. exchanged, police said there was enough evidence discovered Enforcement Narcotics Team The boy was reported as on Malone’s cell phone and computer to support the charge. were in Prichard near the area of First and Rich avenues at a runaway at approximately The investigation is ongoing. approximately 11:20 a.m. Nov. 4 when officers attempted to Bellard, Sr. 6 a.m. Nov. 7 from the 1300 approach Gray and another man. The area is allegedly a known

ayou la Batre Mayor Brett Dungan appears to be at the center of a recent complaint filed with the Alabama Ethics Commission — one that accuses Dungan of asking city personnel to fix damages caused by his Bpersonal vehicle at the local Waffle House. Dungan, who is legally handicapped, doesn’t deny striking a handicapped sign at the local business. However, he main- tains that he didn’t ask anyone employed by the city to make the repairs to the sign. “I struck a pole when parking at the Waffle House, and it was negligible,” Dungan said. “It was brought to my attention that there were city workers sent to make the repairs, but they were not dispatched by me and the city did not authorize them to do so.” Dungan said the repair was authorized by City Clerk Jaime Abastoflor, who had discussed the issue with Jimmy Warren, head of the Bayou la Batre street department. Several weeks after the incident occurred, two street department employees were dispatched and made the repairs.

Abastoflor has since Photo/Submitted reimbursed the city for the cost of labor to A citizen noticed Bayou la Batre municipal employees repairing a repair the sign, which handicap sign on private property and later filed an ethics complaint according to Dungan was less than $30. against Mayor Brett Dungan. “Because he’s a new unsuccessful. Similar “As a general rule you can’t use public funds, equipment city clerk, he didn’t calls to the Bayou la and personnel to do work on private property, but their are realize the issues with Batre street department always exceptions,” Lori Lien of the Alabama League of that,” Dungan said. were also not returned. Municipalities said. “That’s according to the public purpose “It was a minor error A copy of the doctrine.” in his judgement. I complaint was sent to Several attorney general’s opinions have been issued on the assume he thought it Lagniappe along with public purpose doctrine, but none specifically address damage was OK because the pictures of two street caused by a personal vehicle. Lien said if a city is performing Waffle House is one of department employees work and damages private property, public funds can be used the city’s providers of in the process of fixing to fix the damage, but said that wouldn’t apply in a non-offi- business income. It was the sign Oct. 27. By cial capacity. also a priority because practice, state ethics of- When asked about a hypothetical situation similar to one it was a handicapped ficials neither confirm at the Bayou la Batre Waffle House, Lien said “that would space.” nor deny the existence definitely be factually driven.” Dungan said Abas- of complaints or inves- Dungan admitted last month to his role in a report to the toflor opted of his own volition to refund the money top the tigations due to grand jury secrecy rules. ethics commission that resulted in the resignation of two city. If a complaint is received, the commission will review its Bayou la Batre City Council members from the Bayou la Batre Contrary to Dungan’s claims, the complaint suggests the merits initially and if warranted, begin an investigation — a Utilities board. mayor “ran over a curb and hit a handicap sign” and then process that can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few He said then that it was his “responsibility” to report that “came back into the store and, according to the manager of months, depending on the complexity of the situation. two city councilmembers had inadvertently voted to appoint Waffle House, told him not to worry that he would have some- Hugh Evans, general counsel for the Alabama Ethics themselves to the paid position two years ago. However, he one come and repair the sign.” Commission, said he was aware of the situation but couldn’t calls the most recent ethics complaint a “needless distraction.” The manager’s name was listed in the complaint, but comment other than to say, “We have 180 days to get a matter “It’s funny,” Dungan said. “With all the positive things Lagniappe has chosen not publish it, as several attempts to resolved. If we had something on an issue like that, I would happening in Bayou la Batre, like me saving $1 million in contact the manager both in person and over the phone were expect something around February.” taxpayer money last year, this is kind of a non issue,” he said.

6 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 7 BAY BRIEFS BB Council looks to further earmark sales tax revenue BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected] he Mobile City Council and the mayor’s administration in use by hundreds of kids each season, ranging in size from infrastructure improvement plan unveiled late last month by have already sparred over a three-year extension of a 20 “pocket parks” to major sports fields. Stimpson did not address key concerns among his constituents. percent sales tax increase passed in October 2012 and a “Every park needs some kind of major facelift,” Williams For instance, Richardson said, there is no available money to fix new plan to spend part of its revenue might spark more said. “Mims Park has had some Band-Aids, but it’s an ailing drainage issues along parts of Old Shell Road in midtown. Tdisagreement. park.” “There has been no money transferred to take care of that A proposed amendment to the tax ordinance would split $21 Separately during the budget process, the council voted to drainage issue,” Richardson said. “He’s doing whatever he wants million of the expected $30 millionin tax revenues seven ways, take half of the $3 million Capital Improvements Fund ear- to do.” with each councilor getting $3 million to spend in his or her marked for city parks to put toward a proposed county soccer Instead of repairing guardrails in other parts of the city, Rich- district on capital improvements. The rest of the money, roughly complex project. Williams and Councilman Joel Daves cast the ardson would like to use money to cover about 42 open ditches $9 million, would be split among citywide for capital expenses two votes against the move. in one neighborhood in his district and get streets resurfaced in and economic development. others. If approved by the council, the amendment would go into Daves, chairman of the council’s finance committee, said effect next October. Under the guidelines, the remaining $9 Unless there is a deliberate he disapproves of the idea slated to come before the commit- million would be split three ways. Each year, $5 million would tee Nov. 14, saying he thinks it would “handcuff” and prevent be earmarked for economic development, $2.5 million would effort to program money for the city from using funds needed in an emergency, like after a be allocated for public safety capital expenses and another $2.5 our needs we’ll never get anything. hurricane. million would go to the general fund. Instead, he believes in a long-term master plan that would Mayor Sandy Stimpson said last week he had concerns - Councilman Fred Richardson prioritize infrastructure improvement projects, one developed by over splitting the money evenly between the districts. He said the administration and reviewed by council, he said. it would be an encumbrance on districts that might have more “I think it’s unwise to say we’re going to spend the same needs in a given year than others. Williams added he would also like to see some striping work amount of money each year,” Daves said. Councilman John Williams said the council is not using all and more signage in his district. He added that infrastructure improvements in each of the of the money generated from the tax for their individual districts Councilman Fred Richardson, one of the sponsors of the council districts help every citizen in the city, not just those in and argued the mayor didn’t want the extension of the tax in the amendment along with Councilman C.J. Small, said it is the only the district where the money is spent. He said citizens travel first place. way to make sure money goes specifically to needs within each through all of the districts. “The council may have a difference of opinion on where district. Councilwoman Bess Rich said she hasn’t decided how to vote we need to spend it, but we believe there are sufficient capital “Unless there is a deliberate effort to program money for our on the measure because she is waiting on the mayor to share improvement needs top to bottom, left to right, across the city,” needs, we’ll never get anything,” Richardson said. a list of priorities and allocations for her District 6. Rich said Williams said. “This will provide a guideline to allow for im- He said he’s written the mayor with requests to complete she’s provided the mayor a list of where capital money should be provements to all districts.” infrastructure projects within his district and nothing has been spent within her own district. The amendment would not make the money discretion- done. Instead, Richardson said, Stimpson has focused on Among those are improvements to the tennis courts and ary, Williams said, and a supermajority of five votes would be complaints on the city’s 311 reporting system. Using complaints playground at Medal of Honor Park. Striping, resurfacing and required to approve any project using the funds. generated from phone calls, the administration made a map of drainage also need to be addressed within the district. Williams said $3 million could be used in his district to fix red dots showing more than 800 areas of concern in the city. The council will discuss the measure at Friday’s commit- drainage issues caused by faulty catch basins and inlets. The “I’m not one of his dots,” Richardson said. tee meeting. The amendment is likely to appear on the council money could also be used to improve its 10 or so parks, he said, The District 1 representative also complained that the agenda Tuesday, Nov. 18.

8 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 BAY BRIEFS BB Planning Commission denies application for new Dauphin venue BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

he Mobile Planning Commission Thursday denied the 356 Dauphin St., said application of Tom Townsend and Buzz Jordan to increase the building is within the occupancy load for a building at 401 Dauphin St. to reasonable distance of allow for an entertainment venue. more than 225 resi- TThe applicants wanted to increase the occupancy load to 907, dents and an entertain- but any increase of more than 100 requires approval from the ment venue shouldn’t commission. be allowed. She went Planning staff recommended denial of the application. Con- to argue that the City cerns over noise, the increase in occupancy that “far exceeds any Council had excluded of the other uses with the immediate vicinity” and the exclusion of that area from the the site from the city’s entertainment district were listed as reasons downtown entertain- for the denial recommendation. In addition, staff wrote that there ment district, spe- were “more appropriate districts with the Downtown Develop- cifically because of the ment District for the proposed use and the proposed occupancy abundance of residents load.” and small businesses Townsend said the plan was to turn the building into an enter- that would be affected tainment venue, and while there will be the occasional live music by such a venue. performance, he also said the venue could be rented out for wed- Lankford also dings and corporate functions. The building would be leased to a brought up the Ala- tenet that would hold events in the space. bama Music Box and Jordan compared the plans to the Saenger Theater, where com- its alleged reputation edy and musical acts could perform. for “loud music and Photo/Gabriel Tynes Townsend, a commercial contractor, said they’ve considered crowds.” She said the soundproofing measures and have met with a soundproofing engi- block has experienced The long-vacant building at 401 Dauphin Street failed to get Planning Commission neer, in order to keep noise to a minimum. a “small renaissance” approval for an increased occupancy rating. “We don’t feel like it’s going to be a problem,” he said. “We’re since the music venue going to control the sound. It’s in the lease.” was evicted. In other business, the Planning Commission approved the The venue would be similar to Moe’s and the Garage, two Joseph Black said he and his wife, who both live and work in application of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School for a zoning places that routinely host live musical performances, Townsend downtown, said they feared the new venue would negative impact change to allow school property in a residential zone. argued. It’s also within 60 feet of the Cathedral-Basilica of the their quality of life. The zoning changes, subject to a list of conditions would allow Immaculate Conception, which has an occupancy load of over “I guarantee you it will cause a lot of noise,” he said. a parking lot expansion at the school. Among the list of conditions 900, he said. Jordan said he did not know whether he would appeal the Plan- was approval of the plans by the city’s traffic engineering depart- Jean Lankford, who owns a commercial real estate agency at ning Commission’s decision to the Mobile City Council. ment and the Alabama Department of Transportation. Completion of a traffic impact study will also be required.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 9 BAY BRIEFS BB First phases of soccer complex will cost more than $20 million BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

obile County Commissioners got their first look at An additional $70,000 has also been allocated to prepare velopers about partnering with the county to fund this portion a preliminary cost estimate for the proposed soccer the property for the sale and to perform environmental services of the project. complex at the cloverleaf of I-65/I-10 last Friday, on the site.Not included is the potential $36,000 purchasing “We haven’t been able to follow up on that because it’s too and at $20.7 million for 10 fields — the price of the option the county has agreed to — an agreement that reserves premature, but certainly that would be the endeavor,” Hudson Mcomplex was the subject of much contention during Monday’s the county the option of buying the $2.9 million piece of the said. meeting. property where the complex is slated to sit. The commission is hoping to receive some outside funding The numbers came by way of a master plan created by A copy of the full report has not yet been provided to for the project, whether from private partnerships or from gov- Neel-Schaffer Inc., which the county commissioned in April to Lagniappe, but Murphy did detail the potential costs of some ernment grant programs. The commission has already voted the tune of $80,000. As requested when the study was autho- 2-1 to request $40 million of funding through the RESTORE rized, those numbers are broken into two proposed phases. Act, and the city of Mobile has also agreed to give $1.5 million The Commission has approved neither of the two, and in to the project — money originally set aside for improvements fact, commissioners Jerry Carl and Connie Hudson were at to existing city parks. odds during the meeting over whether to accept the master As for the environmental impact, David Knowles Barry plan at all. Still, representatives from Neel-Schaffer detailed of A. Vittor and Associates said only 2.6 of the more than 88 the pricing for the first two phases. acres of wetlands would be affected by the construction of the According to their presentation, Phase 1 would include the soccer fields. An additional 3.1 acres could be affected if and construction of a championship field, four adult playing fields, when the water park feature is added. a 240-space parking lot, entrances from Halls Mill Road, Knowles said those figures were based on their research and practices areas and concession and bathroom areas with a price have yet to be confirmed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- tag of $9.8 million. neers. Phase 2 would add four additional fields as well as three Hudson said the county has taken great care in its planning additional parking areas and could cost approximately $11 mil- to make sure as little of the wetlands are disturbed as possible lion when all is said and done. and said several environmental groups have praised their ef- All of the prices are broken down with estimated values forts. for earthwork and the construction of roadways, parking lots, Several in attendance were in support of the soccer complex water and sewer work, erosion prevention, design fees and including Chad Harrelson with the Mobile United Football other details. Club, who brought up some of the revenues generated at the Photo/Courtesy Mobile County Commission If these numbers are accurate, the total package could cost soccer facilities in Orange Beach. $20,700,400 without the indoor swimming facility, water park An artist’s rendering depicts the county’s pro- Citing a recently published article, Harrelson said Orange and nature trails that have been discussed over the past several Beach has seen an upward trend in sports tourism for its youth months. posed soccer and aquatic complex. and collegiate events. He also said the need in Mobile for an “For the record, the magic number here is $26 million,” acceptable facility is great. Carl said, referring to the additional cost of the land and the of the other proposed projects at the site when questioned by “This isn’t a build it and they will come situation, this is fees the county has already paid relate to the project. “My en- Carl. build it because they’re already here,” he said. “It’s indisput- gineers tell me we’ve got the exact same thing for the project I Those numbers included $12 million for the proposed able. This is something that’s got to be done.” originally proposed at $6.5 million. Paying five times as much swimming facility and its amenities and an additional Those opposed to the current plan, including Carl, agreed for this project is hard to swallow — especially with all the $200,000 for the cross country and nature trail area that’s a facility is desperately needed, but disagreed on how much needs we already have.” anticipated to run through several acres of wetlands on the should be spent on it. Carl was referring to a site near Irvington he originally property. Harrelson said building a quality facility would increase the proposed as a location suitable for a soccer complex. How- Adding the cost of the property to the cost of the soccer county’s return on its investment, but more than 20 employees ever, after quoting his prices, Senior Engineering Manager for facilities and the prices Murphy sited for the swimming facility from the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office attended the meeting Projects John Murphy told Carl “he didn’t know what he was and cross country trails yields a rough total of $35.8 million and several spoke out against such an expensive project being basing his numbers on.” without the inclusion of a water park, which was not quoted in considered in the current economic climate. Carl also admitted later in the meeting that hadn’t made Neel-Schaffer’s master plan. “Commissioner Merceria Ludgood spearheaded taking progress on developing his plan since being told to “step “We provided an area of a little over 13 acres that would away two holidays from us because money was tight. You aside” as Commission President Connie Hudson moved for- provide plenty enough space to adequately supply a water changed our insurance plan to a cheaper version and refused ward with the current proposal. park, whether it be small with just a few splash pads or a full to expand an overcrowded and liability-ridden jail because The figures quoted for the construction of two soccer phases water park,” Murphy said. “We did not do a layout for that, but money was tight,” Trey Oliver with the MCSO said. “The do not include the $1.5 million in road projects related to the we’ve seen prices on some smaller facilities at $5 million and concept of a soccer facility is exciting Commissioner Hudson, facility, which the county included in the 2014 Pay-As-You-Go we’ve seen as much $30 million spent on water parks in the but so was a cruise terminal and so was BayBears stadium. program voters approved Nov. 4. The projects include adding Southeast.” Whenever the government becomes an entrepreneur, money a turning lane at the main entrance to the facility on Halls Mill No details about the type of water park were discussed, but is wasted. Let’s live within our budget and take care of our Road and a widening project on Lee’s Lane. Hudson did say there has been conversation with several de- personnel needs and our existing liability first.”

10 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 BAY BRIEFS BB Margaret Brown’s ‘The Great Invisible’ debuts in Mobile Nov. 20 BY ALYSON STOKES/REPORTER | [email protected]

“The lights went out. Then the first explosion hit us.” held in New Orleans. “It flipped me through the air like a ragdoll.” According to Brown, it marked the first screening on the These are just a couple of the many thought-provoking, “real” Gulf Coast. powerful excerpts found in the award-winning film “The Great “People were so angry,” she said. “I wasn’t prepared for the Invisible,” which documents the aftermath of the largest oil spill anger people feel toward BP and (co-defendant) Transocean. I in U.S. history that shook the Gulf Coast, and even the entire wasn’t quite prepared for the emotion people brought to it.” nation, on April 20, 2010. There were “tons” of people in the audience who had not yet The documentary, directed by Alabama-native filmmaker received any compensation money from BP, Brown said. Margaret Brown, explores the fallout of the Deepwater Horizon In making the movie, Brown said she felt like people in the explosion and digs deeper into communities that are still feeling South had a notion that northerners did not truly understand the effects of the high-profile environmental disaster long after the life-changing impact the oil spill had on coastal communi- the nonstop national media coverage stopped. ties and their way of life, citing it could take 30 years to fully Instead of being another “media machine” producing “disas- understand the impact to seafood. ter porn,” Brown asked herself, “what is going to happen when While setting out to document the lasting effects on small all the cameras leave? What’s that going to be like?” Southern communities, Brown met a man named Roosevelt in Having grown up in Mobile, Brown brings a unique, personal Bayou la Batre who became one of the main characters in the connection to the film, which initially spawned from photos her film and ultimately the “heart of the movie.” In fact, though her father showed her of their Pelican Point home in Weeks Bay. favorite aspects of the film fluctuate, Brown named spending a “In the pictures you could see the orange boom,” she said, re- lot of time in Bayou la Batre and just “hanging out” with Roos- membering the photograph of workers surrounding her parents’ evelt as one of her favorite things about the process. home during cleanup efforts. “It was just weird. I just remember Furthermore, she said the movie’s goal is not to point fingers thinking it didn’t look like their house.” at BP or simply highlight the company’s faults. Instead, it is to Brown recalled talking to her father, who she remembered focus on a much bigger story about how everyone is connected being very concerned about the seafood industry. to the oil industry. For almost three months, millions of gallons of oil spewed “I feel like people don’t understand how we’re all connected into the Gulf of Mexico, raising questions about not only the by using petroleum,” Brown said. “The longer I did it, the more local seafood industry, but also entire ecosystems and the overall I thought we are all connected.” safety of offshore drilling. According to an infographic on film’s website, the United “No one knew what was going to happen,” she said. “I didn’t States uses more than 765 million gallons of oil every day, feel like anyone knew what to do.” which equates to While many people compared the Deepwater Horizon oil nearly 23 percent of the spill to a hurricane, Brown said it was the complete opposite. world’s oil. Further- With hurricanes, there are usually preparation and recovery more, 40 percent of the plans, she said. nation’s oil processing The Deepwater Horizon oil spill had no precedent. plants and nearly 4,000 Photo/nbc.com (left) Participant Media (above) “There was no routine,” Brown said. “There’s so many un- oil and gas platforms knowns. I think that really resonated with me.” are located in the Gulf Native Mobilian Margaret Brown’s new Many of the people featured in the movie, specifically work- of Mexico. feature debuts at the Saenger Nov. 20. ers on the rig itself, have not yet received compensation from The infographic BP, she said. Furthermore, many of them continue to battle also depicts how much ence in Austin. She also directed the award-winning film post-traumatic stress disorder and other complications stemming oil is used to produce “The Order of Myths,” documenting segregated Mardi from the disaster. everyday items like car Gras celebrations in Mobile and “Be Here To Love Me: “I didn’t really tell anybody that I was involved ‘cause I tires, cell phones and A Film About Townes Van Zandt.” didn’t know if I should be proud of it or embarrassed by it you even hamburgers. The Gulf Coast theatrical premiere of “The Great know,” one worker said in the film. “And I still don’t know.” Ultimately, Brown Invisible” will be held at Mobile’s Saenger Theatre Nov. Out of the rig’s 126 crewmembers, 11 people lost their lives hopes “The Great 20 at 7 p.m. with doors at 6 p.m. and many more were injured in the explosion that could be seen Invisible” opens the Tickets are $15 and all proceeds will be donated to 35 miles away. Five years later, effects from the blast still linger. eyes of consumers and the Bayou Recovery Project, a nonprofit organization “One [worker] has really bad nightmares and a lot of guilt,” helps them understand dedicated to helping recovery efforts for the people of Brown said. “I think it was really powerful for them to have an the hidden oil in their everyday lives. South Mobile County. audience and be able to discuss this stuff.” “I think it’s essential for us to move forward as a culture,” The fundraiser screening will be followed by a question and The movie has been shown in numerous areas not directly she said. answer session with Brown and other special guests. affected by the oil spill, primarily in northern states and cities Brown took home the Grand Jury Prize for Documentary for For more information about the film and how to take action, like Austin, Texas, up until two weeks ago when a screening was “The Great Invisible” at this year’s South by Southwest confer- please visit www.mobilesaenger.com and www.takepart.com/ great-invisible.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 11 BAY BRIEFS BB Fairhope settles attorney fee dispute with former insurer BY GABRIEL TYNES/ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR | [email protected]

our years and $1.6 million later, the city of Fairhope reached a settlement agreement Nov. 7 with the Alabama Municipal Insurance Corporation (AMIC) over the reimbursement of attorneys fees charged to litigate a lawsuit Fover a rejected retail development. Mayor Tim Kant said the tentative settlement will leave the city on the hook for $500,000, while AMIC will be required to pick up the $1.1 million balance. The agreement was reached the week before a jury trial was scheduled to begin in Baldwin County Circuit Court, where the case had been remanded following a U.S. District Court judge’s rejection of it in 2010. Since then, both sides had agreed to delays while the city finalized a purchase agreement for the property at the center of the litigation – the former “Dyas Triangle” at the city’s northwestern gateway. The dispute began when the Dyas family sued the city in 2008, after the Fairhope Planning Commission rejected its plans for a 54,000-square-foot shopping center on the property. Allegedly, the city removed an attorney AMIC had initially assigned to the case and replaced him with a team from the law firm of Hand Arendall, which submitted charges for reimbursement AMIC hadn’t anticipated or approved. At the time, the charges totaled just $225,000. Before the parties could reach a handshake agreement, AMIC filed suit and shortly thereafter, the city countersued. But charges mounted as the Dyas family’s lawsuit continued and the core case remained unsettled until the city purchased the property from the Photo/Gabriel Tynes family late last year, for a total of $8.75 million, more than $5 million of which was a bank loan. Property formerly known as the “Dyas Triangle” behind the “Welcome to Fairhope” sign was the Kant said today he has always believed the city was within its subject of years of litigation. The city recently settled a 4-year-old lawsuit with its former insurer. contractual rights to assign a different legal team to the case. Kant said the city reviews its insurance coverage annually Fairhope does not employ a legal staff but has long kept local “If it’s covered under our insurance, the insurance people and even though the relationship with AMIC was terminated, it attorney Marion “Tut” Wynne on retainer in an arrangement pick the attorney to use,” he said. “If it’s something outside of has since found similar or better coverage from The Travelers worth a $24,000 base fee plus an additional $62,000 in fees last the normal realm – and we were told there was the possibility of Companies. year, Kant said. Outside attorneys are frequently hired for ad- a $16 million judgment against the city (in the Dyas case) – we Kant also acknowledged that he has been the recipient of cam- ditional work, he said. made a decision to retain Hand Arendall to defend it. As it goes paign contributions from Hand Arendall’s partners and a related Circuit Court Judge Jody Bishop presided over the case and through the process, the insurance company should pick it up Political Action Committee, but said the firm’s relationship with denied several of AMIC’s motions in the days before the settle- and they would pay part and we would pay the other part … We the city predates his tenure as mayor and added, “they’ve never ment was reached. Bishop was at one time Fairhope’s municipal thought all along we were correct. We wouldn’t have carried on lost a case.” judge. with spending money to prove we deserve to have the attorney “In fact, they’ve returned at least $1 million back to the city Attorneys representing AMIC declined to comment on the fees paid, otherwise we may not have gone any further.” coffers,” he said. settlement. Fairhope Council approves new body cameras for officers BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

he Fairhope City Council on Monday approved the uniforms and a few even got lost, Pettis said. Councilors also pushed the idea for a citizen review commit- purchase of 40 new body cameras for the Fairhope Police In addition, Pettis said the footage from the new cameras can’t tee to look at complaints filed against Mobile police. Barber and Department. be manipulated and can only be downloaded onto a computer to Stimpson each said there was enough oversight already in place Equipping officers with body cameras is not a new be prepared for court. and a citizen panel wasn’t necessary. Tidea in Fairhope, but newer, higher-quality cameras were needed, The new cameras ease of use and recording life would also In other business, the Fairhope City Council approved rezoning Chief Joseph Pettis said. lead to a change in the way officers are trained, Pettis said. Instead land at the northwest corner of Grand Avenue and Bon Secour Av- “The previous chief had purchased some body cameras,” Pettis of only using the cameras in situations where there is a confronta- enue from R-4, low density multi-family to R-2 medium density told the council. “They worked good at first, but wouldn’t hold tion, officers will now be able to start recording at the beginning single-family. up.” of every interaction they have while on the job, Pettis said. The council voted unanimously to approve paying the local Pettis said of the 20 cameras purchased at a convention for Mayor Tim Kant said body cameras come in handy when an 20 percent match required for the Eastern Shore Metropolitan about $190 a piece, only about two remain. He said the company officer is challenged by a citizen on what happened during an Planning Organization to fund a traffic signal system technology that maintained the original cameras had gone out of business. encounter. enhancements study. The city will pay $2,047 toward the study. The city purchased the new VieVu cameras for $30,420 and “We’ve had a number of incidents of ‘he said, they said,’” Kant Kant, who is chairman of the organization, said leaders wanted to got 10 percent off the price through the Houston-Galveston Area said. “We just want to make sure everybody does right.” look at synchronizing the traffic signals along U.S. Highway 98 Council purchasing contract, Council President Jack Burrell said. The body cameras come in addition to dash-mounted cameras from State Highway 44 to U.S. Highway 31 in Spanish Fort. The price comes out to about $800 per camera and allows all 36 already mounted in the city’s police cars. The council declared a long list of about 30 items as surplus sworn officers and Pettis to have a camera. The Mobile City Council recently discussed buying body cam- and allowed Kant and the city treasurer to sell the items through a In addition to being broken, many of the old cameras were eras for officers within the Mobile Police Department. Councilors bid process. Used bulletproof vests, which were on the list, will be harder to operate, Pettis said. Previously, an officer had to spend Levon Manzie, C.J. Small and Fred Richardson supported the donated to Ten-Four Ministries to give to departments that can’t more time pushing a sequence of buttons to turn on and record idea of body cameras after a citizen complained at the last council afford vests of their own. with the camera. The old cameras led to safety complaints. meeting that her son was being racially profiled by police. The council granted permission to the Eastern Shore Optimist The new cameras can be turned on and will start recording Mayor Sandy Stimpson said he would leave the decision to Club to use city property behind the Fairhope Public Library from once an officer pulls a flap down. The cameras can record for purchase the cameras to Chief James Barber, but added other Nov. 24 to Dec. 20 for their annual Christmas tree sale. four consecutive hours and hold up to 12 hours worth of recorded capital expenses within the department, like replacing older patrol The council also approved a measure to place two speed bumps video, which would last an entire shift, Pettis said. The new cars in the fleet, are more important. Body cameras for the entire on Morphy Avenue to help with traffic near parks. The goal is to cameras have a sturdier clip to cling onto the lapel of a uniform. Mobile Police Department would cost an estimated $400,000 to slow traffic to 15 miles per hour. In the past, officers complained about the cameras falling off their $500,000.

here certainly has to be a point in RESTORE Act money will pay for it all, but suppose. As I’ve said before, if this were a the birth of every public project at some point she has to admit it’s getting out private venture and someone went to the bank that level-headed people have to of hand. to ask for a loan, all those types of ques- determine whether it’s worth the The very concept of building a publicly tions would be answered ahead of time. But Ttime, money and effort being expended owned water park is ridiculous. Look around, because it’s free money from the government — whether it has a future that’s going to there are water parks in cities all over the we can just wing it. justify all the grunting and groaning. region. There are some very successful water Whether RESTORE Act money should Take the GulfQuest Maritime Museum parks within an hour’s drive of Mobile. So be used to support the maritime museum’s for example. This was a breech birth if why doesn’t Mobile have one? future exhibits or to build Hudson’s mammoth there ever was one and the thing still Does anyone think the people who make vision is probably debatable. What any of hasn’t taken its first breath. Sometimes waterparks haven’t ever considered Mobile? that had to do with the oil spill might tax the I wonder if it ever will. Years late in Did they not build one here because it would talents of even a very wily politician. But as opening already, the odds on GulfQuest make too much money? I’m not really sure we get further away from the spill it just looks being a success seem long at best right what the scope of Hudson’s vision for a water more and more like a big pile of free money. now. Hopefully that dim view will prove park is, but if it’s anything bigger than a Slip- I know there are certainly people in town unfounded, but in Mobile dim views of n-Slide and a sprinkler, then you have to won- who want to see this project come to fruition public projects are seldom unfounded. der why she thinks local government can do it — especially people involved in the soccer GulfQuest is already looking to try to better than private business. I have to imagine community. But a shovel-full of dirt hasn’t nail down $10 million in RESTORE Act the folks at Waterville would long ago have even been turned yet and the cost estimates money that would ensure its life would plunked a water park down at I-65 and I-10 if keep getting bigger and bigger. While I know at least be long if not memorable. But they thought it would be a winner. there’s a very active soccer community in the only thing harder than guessing when As this plan grows in scope there still are Mobile, I have to wonder if this type of in- GulfQuest will finally open is figuring out a lot of unanswered questions — particularly vestment is proportionate to that community. when RESTORE Act money will actually about how the county will pay for its day-to- Football and baseball are both as big or start flowing. day operations. For instance, will admission bigger, and no one is proposing a $40-to-$50 At this time it seems like GQ is be charged to the water park? The privately million project for them. I’m sure there has running the Hail Mary route hop- owned ones aren’t exactly cheap, so would to be a happy medium somewhere in all of ing RESTORE Act cash drops into its a government-owned water park charge as this — a way to end up with quality soccer outstretched hands. Certainly pessimism much? Or will it be free, and if so, wouldn’t fields but not leave the city with yet another about the maritime museum is pervasive that put the government in competition with publicly funded albatross. at this point. The ship is already sailing privately owned water parks in the area? At the very minimum the public should into a pretty rough headwind and it’s still Hudson still really hasn’t provided much get to vote on whether we really wants to tied to the dock. detail as to how she expects things to run after spend this kind of money birthing Hudson’s If you ask most local politicos they’ll it’s all built. It’s not part of the vision yet I big, fat baby. tell you they wish there was a do-over on GulfQuest and at most it would have been a much more modest project. But thanks to the previous administrations GulfQuest is built now and one day might actually The Gadfly open so we can see what all the fuss is about. Our next great public project birth looms as County Commissioner Connie Hudson continues to push her “vision” of a Soccer Complex/Aquatic Center/Water Park at the nexus of Interstates 10 and 65. Every time she opens her mouth about the project, though, the cost skyrockets. Early this week the cat was finally let out of the bag that the soccer complex ALONE will cost almost $21 million. That’s for 10 fields. The master plan commissioned by … the commission, estimates a cost of $20.7 to get all of the soccer fields envisioned by Hudson. This is the latest eye-popping number to be attached to this project. Just a few weeks ago Hudson said it was going to cost $40 million for the whole enchi- lada. Today nearly that same amount is what’s needed to just to cover the soccer field and natatorium. There’s still a water park left to be built, not to mention nature trails and roadwork. So it seems like the $40-million soccer complex/waterworld, etc. is now likely to be a good bit more costly than Hudson was estimating just a couple of weeks ago. Connieville is growing like a Pentagon

weapons program. Cartoon/Laura Rasmussen I know Hudson has lined this out to Scandal brews at the Bayou la Batre Waffle House be paid for piecemeal over the construction time, and she’s also hoping magic after Mayor Dungan hits the gas.

14 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 HIDDEN AGENDA COMMENTARY C Getting NAUGHTY and NICE from the Pole to the Port City BY ASHLEY TRICE/EDITOR | [email protected]

o, ho, ho, Lagniappe readers! Santa here. litter problem and that’s NICE. But dear mayor, I know you don’t really like hearing from please don’t let the enforcement officers be too me until the last leftover Thanksgiving NAUGHTY. Remember you should be targeting turkey sandwich has been gobbled up and the disgusting pigs who throw trash out of their Hthe Iron Bowl has been decided, but I’ve heard a cars and derelict property owners, not people lot of grumbling about me in Mobile of late, so I who roll their garbage carts out a little too early. just wanted to check in you with crazy people. Just make sure those guys are using good judg- It seems Mobile’s Christmas/Hanukkah/ ment, as you want the citizenry to stay behind Kwanzaa/Winter Solstice/Boxing Day and Holi- this enforcement effort. day Parade has been canceled this year, as has the Prancer is with you though. He wants us to North Pole Stroll. Obviously, these were events stop putting coal in all of the bad boy and girl the elves and I were prominently featured in and stockings. Vixen suggested we go to all switches. “my people” were told by “your people” there Typical Vixen. Talk about NAUGHTY! were not enough corporate sponsors willing to The second letter I received was from Com- pony up the money for these events this year. missioner Connie Hudson. She has big dreams of Don’t worry, my feelings aren’t hurt; there a soccer complex, but it comes with an equally will still be plenty of places to find me in your big price tag. Again, Santa thinks ambition is area this holiday season. I’m always HUGE at the always NICE and goodness knows all the soccer malls and for some strange reason, stores where moms, dads and players around here have been you can find fishing lures and deer urine. Wait a asking for improved facilities in Mobile for a second, now I get it. Rudolph is always the one long, long time. who books that gig. Poor buddy doesn’t even get This is absolutely a discussion worth having. what that tee-tee is used for. Ha, ha, ha. Let’s just But I think some people are just worried it will say his nose is about the brightest thing about not pay for itself and become another entity the him. city and/or county has to support. And they also Anyway, I just wanted to let you know it’s all look around and see all the existing roads and going to be OK, and all of you nice folks will parks that definitely could really use more than still have a wonderful holiday in the Port City. In just a little TLC and wonder if those shouldn’t be fact, “your people” say it’s going to be the best taken care of first. Also, absolutely a discussion holiday season ever, promising a whole Decem- worth having. ber full of events. I guess y’all will have to be the I’m sure there is a solution somewhere in the judge of that. middle. And perhaps a referendum is the best But I do hope the NAUGHTY corporate way to go on this, so the people can truly be grinches who withdrew their parade and stroll heard. You know I always like hearing what the sponsorships will consider donating that money people want. to some of our arts, civic and/or charitable But you guys on the commission can be NICE organizations this year. That would be real, real about it. Things have gotten a bit nasty and it’s NICE! Remember Santa is watching. hard to have a productive conversation when In addition to this news, I also received a few things devolve like they have. Vixen already has wish lists from your local leaders, and I wanted switches with your NAUGHTY names on it. to share those with you. I have some handy tips Better straighten up and work together on this. I for them so they may one day find their “gifts” know that would probably require a Christmas under their “trees,” so to speak. miracle, but hey, that’s my business! The first letter I received was from your The final letter I received was from Council- mayor, Sandy Stimpson, who just marked his first man Fred Richardson. Seriously, Fred? year in office. His first wish was for Mobile to be No, I cannot destroy the Times Square Crystal “the safest, most business- and family-friendly Ball, Atlanta Peach, Key West Ruby Slipper or city in America by 2020.” Good thing he gave the Spencer, the stuffed possum dropped in Tal- elves and me a few extra years on that tall order. lapoosa, Ga. The MoonPie Drop will have to But ambition is always NICE. become the “largest drop in the word” on its own. He then asked for a guillotine for Bienville NAUGHTY, NAUGHTY, NAUGHTY! Square to use on violators of the litter ordinance. Vixen, you better grab some more switches. I kid, I kid, but he does seem serious about this

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 15 BELTWAY BEAT COMMENTARY C Six takeaways from last week’s midterm elections BY JEFF POOR/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

WASHINGTON – Last week’s midterm This electoral invulnerability has made both elections have come and gone and with them Sessions and his colleague Sen. Richard Shelby nearly $3.7 billion (spent on House and Sen- two of the most senior members in the Senate. ate races). Throw in another $500 million for Shelby will be the seventh most senior member governors’ races around the country and you had in the new Senate next year and Sessions will be a very expensive election, but with a low turnout. either the 18th or 19th most senior member which Roughly only one-third of eligible voters showed hinges upon whether or not Sen. Mary Landrieu up to cast a ballot. (D-LA) can win re-election in her runoff contest But, we did learn a few things about the elec- later this year. torate and political side stories that will be worth That sets Shelby up to be the chairman of the keeping an eye over the next two years headed to Senate Banking Committee and Sessions up to be the presidential election. chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, two 1) Polling left much to be desired. It was very powerful committees. no secret the first Tuesday in November would Sessions as budget chairman could set up boast a big Republican night. We just had no an interesting story as the Senate controlled by idea it was going to be this big — but beyond the current Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has main story of the GOP picking up control of the avoided passing a federal budget since for political U.S. Senate, there were GOP gains in the House, reasons. That will set the stage for an interesting governors’ mansions and legislatures around the tug of war between a soon-to-be Republican-con- country. trolled Senate and the Obama White House, with With the polling, no one expected the GOP Sessions playing a pivotal role. wave would be a tsunami. 4) An immigration bloodbath is forthcom- Polls were considerably off in a number of ing. President Barack Obama has made it clear he high-profile contests, including the Senate races is going to unilaterally move on immigration — as in North Carolina, Virginia and Georgia and the it appears less and less likely he will get the im- gubernatorial races in Florida, Michigan and migration policy he desires from Congress. Maryland. But if Obama acts alone and grants amnesty to This could have an impact in 2016. Regard- millions of illegal immigrants, there will certainly less of what the polls say, people may still come be a push from the GOP base and some members out to vote because, well they were wrong in the of Congress to react. midterms. In what form would that be? Polling companies are going to need to make Impeachment doesn’t seem to be an option. Re- some serious adjustments to their models and de- publicans are still weary from the failed impeach- termine what constitutes a “likely voter” in future ment effort of the 1990s of then-President Bill elections. Clinton. If the polls had indicated the reality in a place But if Obama acts alone, Washington will be like Virginia, where the incumbent Sen. Mark even more polarized than it is now. Warner (D-VA) barely defeated the Republican 5) The “War on Women” meme is nominee Ed Gillespie, might outside groups dead. Running on the notion that Republicans and Republican committees have put more effort would try to ban birth control worked for some into the contest, potentially changing the outcome? reason in 2012, but as we found out in this elec- 2) One-party states have boring general tion, people are wising up to these Democratic elections. Has there ever been such a lackluster scare tactics. election for statewide office in Alabama? Now that In California, self-proclaimed birth control ac- Republicans dominate Montgomery, all the action tivist Sandra Fluke, who was made famous when occurs in the state’s Republican primary contest. Rush Limbaugh ill-advisedly called her a “slut” on It was hard to see a path for incumbents Gov. the airwaves, was soundly defeated in her contest Robert Bentley or Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey to lose. How- for state legislature. Abortion rights champion ever, the one contest that supposedly was up for Wendy Davis was also crushed in her bid for grabs was a nothing-burger as well. Despite hav- governor in Texas. ing to take on a Joe Hubbard’s campaign that was Outgoing Sen. Mark Udall (D-CO) tried to run funded by the Poarch Creek Indians, incum- on the war on women playbook as well, but was bent Attorney General Luther Strange cruised to beaten by Rep. Cory Gardner (R-CO). reelection. What worked so well in 2012 didn’t work this There will be one new face in the Alabama del- time and should not be counted on by Democrats egation, however, Gary Palmer beat his Democrat in 2016. opponent Mark Lester to win Alabama’s 6th con- 6) The GOP wave is not a sign for 2016. For gressional district seat soon to be vacated by the whatever reason, Democrats don’t come out outgoing Rep. Spencer Bachus. to vote in midterm elections. They may not be Palmer looked to be a long-shot candidate aware of off term elections or just don’t view coming out a crowded Republican field earlier determining elected representation in Congress as this year. However, Palmer made it to his party’s important. runoff election against State Rep. Paul DeMarco Obama’s reelection in 2012 wasn’t a wave and defeated him soundly. election as the country witnessed last week. If 3) Both Alabama’s senators are poised for we’ve learned anything from the past several high-profile chairmanships. One of the benefits presidential elections, the country is still fairly of a one-party state is you have two members split 50/50. that will likely leave the U.S. Senate on their Likely Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary own terms. Sen. Jeff Sessions won his contest Clinton didn’t exactly fare well in 2014, be it on unopposed last week. the campaign trail or in the exit polling. But until Of course, if you’re a Democrat in Alabama the Republican Party has a definitive answer to outside of a handful of precincts, the effort does her, we can’t assume this wave will mean anything appear futile. for GOP prospects in 2016.

16 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 TAO OF JEN COMMENTARY C All you really need to know about astrology BY JENNIFER MCDONALD/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

hile looking over my schedule for the cied myself something of an expert in astrology. rest of the month, as always I took a (If you’re not familiar with what the general few moments to consult my favorite scientific community says about astrology I’ll astrology website to see if there were give you a hint; it involves lots of eye rolls.) I Wany upcoming cosmic transits I needed to know found it kind of fascinating. about that might have a significant impact on the I guess my interest really sparked during days ahead. Things started off pretty promising, my early 20s, when my best friend and I had astrologically speaking. a strange encounter with a guy in our karate Mercury Conjunct Mercury – You will be class. He was a fellow student at USA and had in fine form to complete all your professional always seemed very quiet and shy. Although tasks, studies and communications. Your mind is we’d all been studying karate together for well always alert and ideas come to you naturally. over a year, I don’t believe we’d ever spoken. Not too shabby! I love this month already! One day he abruptly approached us after class, Jupiter Sextile Sun – You will be on top dark eyes blazing intensely, and began reciting form, really healthy, in good spirits. You will be what he knew about us from our “signs,” which full of go, your professional affairs will pose no he had apparently guessed after observing our difficulty. All your problems will be solved with personalities. alarming ease. Your good mood, your optimism, “I’d recognize a Libra woman anywhere,” your good-heartedness will bring you the pro- he said to me in a husky and mysterious tone, tection of influential people. thickened by his Spanish accent. “Stunningly Heck yeah! beautiful, fair-minded, sharp as a tack, elegant, Venus Conjunct Uranus – You are craving graceful, exquisitely feminine, seductive, and excitement or you are surprised by someone on utterly charming. Men find you completely ir- a romantic level. Pleasant surprises, a breath of resistible and fall at your feet wherever you go.” fresh air. You are craving emotional excitement, And that’s when I first suspected maybe stimulation and something new and alive. Your there was something to astrology after all. (Ha!) social inhibitions are loosened and you may be For the most part it was just a fun diversion for tempted to have a wild flirtation or to act in a me but for a while, I probably spent more time rather carefree way in a relationship. than I care to admit studying weird charts and Yowza! Sounds like some pretty saucy ad- astrologizing all my friends. ventures ahead! (Ha! Conjunct Uranus.) Although I still sympathize with the yearn- Uranus Opposition Mercury – This is a long- ing to find some magic “key” to understanding term transit that can last some months. Even ourselves and the world around us, these days I a tiny thing can annoy and upset you during tend to be skeptical of anything or anyone that this time. You may be in a bad mood and your attempts to explain the mysteries of life in a way personal circle may have problems putting up that can’t survive the scrutiny of the scientific with you. You can expect unsettling or unnerv- method. ing conversations. There can be a re-occurrence For those who hold firm to your faith in of problems that were already settled, or so you astrology, because it just feels right to you or thought. It’s crisis time. maybe just because you already have that giant Well this is going abruptly south. tattoo of the Gemini twins on your ass, take Be careful and cautious while operating ma- heart. Science has recently suggested that our chinery and while walking, running and getting time of birth might have at least a little some- from point A to B. thing to do with our personalities after all. Oh no! That sounds menacing. A recent study from the University of Avoid signing anything important as it may Hungary revealed that people born in the spring not be in your best interests. Equipment failure and summer were more likely to be excessively (sudden) may have to be dealt with. Circulation positive, people born in the summer were more of the blood may be affected as well. Beware likely to have rapid, frequent mood swings, unreliable people. people born in the autumn were less likely to Enough! I HATE THIS STUPID, SCARY have depressive temperaments, and people born MONTH!!!! in the winter were less likely to have irritable These were real excerpts from my horoscope, temperaments. but I’ll admit I’m pulling your leg just a bit. Another study shows that certain mental Before today it’s probably been years since I’ve illnesses seem to affect people born around the consulted a horoscope, and personally I tend to same time of year. For example, schizophrenics think astrology is generally about as useful as are most often born in January through March the contradictory, confusing and anxiety-pro- and those with dyslexia are most often born in voking nonsense above. (A notable exception is the summer. Several other studies suggest that Lagniappe’s own Dr. Zodiac, who consistently certain personality traits seem to correlate to produces an uncannily precise forecasts each birth months or seasons; for example, one study week. Who else could have so accurately pre- links women born during February, March and dicted my eventful year of muffin addiction, be- April to increased novelty-seeking behavior. ing beaten by an angry biker, and getting tazered So far it’s nothing too terribly impressive and after rushing the field at the Senior Bowl?) it certainly doesn’t come close to supporting I wasn’t always such a skeptic, and those astrology, but it’s interesting to consider. Still, who’ve picked up on my enthusiasm for modern I’ll hold off on that scales of justice tattoo for science might be surprised to learn I once fan- now. We Libras are cautious that way.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 17 THE REAL DEAL BUSINESS BB ServisFirst Bank moving downtown BY RON SIVAK/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

The new ServisFirst Bank Mobile headquar- to open in Alabama, his concept is a good fit entrepreneurs, innovators, industry leaders, ters is a two-story, 16,000-square-foot building for the Mobile area and well known along the astronauts and pilots. more than doubling the size of their current central Gulf Coast,” he said. Litchtenfeld, a Mobile resident, was born in location. The new locale will provide full Pratt Thomas with the Merrill P. Thomas Gary, Indiana, and also served in the U.S. Army. service banking and two-lane drive-up banking Co., Inc. recently leased 1,200-square-feet of He was taken prisoner in the December 1944 with covered parking. ServisFirst Bank signed retail space in University Square Shopping Battle of the Bulge, labeled by historians as one a long-term lease with RSA and is set to move Center across from the University of South of the most deadly. He was awarded the Purple into the space currently occupied by Phelps & Alabama to Flaunt Boutique, a women’s Heart and Bronze Star medals as well as the Dunbar in late fall 2015. clothing shop. They will host its grand opening Combat Infantryman’s Badge. In 2001, he wrote “The Mobile community has embraced Saturday, Nov. 22. “Kriegie 312330,” detailing his experiences. ServisFirst Bank since we entered the region in Thomas also sold 13 acres to local investors The day’s events included an annual parade July 2012,” Bibb Lamar, CEO and president of off County Road 20 South, a half mile west of along Government Street in downtown Mobile ServisFirst Bank Mobile said. “With our new State Highway 59 in Foley, for $97,500. that featured several veterans’ organizations, location, we are committed to providing Mobile Groundbreaking ceremonies will be held active duty units, reserve & National Guard with excellent customer service they have come Friday, Nov. 14 at 11 a.m. for a new Hampton units, ROTC and JROTC units, scouts and to know with additional space to grow.” Inn located at 1701 Gulf Shores Parkway that local marching bands. A Freedom Celebration Parent company, ServisFirst Bancshares was is scheduled to be complete by spring 2016. The was also held at the USS Alabama Battleship recently ranked 7th in market share for the state Coastal Alabama Business Chamber will be Memorial Park and included a free Mobile Pops of Alabama, with total assets reaching $3.966 hosting the event. Concert. billion as announced in their 3rd quarter earn- According to the press release, the 88- ings Oct. 20. As of June 30, they had $2.966 room hotel is a prototype and the only one of its Austal christens second LCS in ceremony billion in deposits, up 19 percent year over year. design in the area. Features at the new hotel will Austal and the U.S. Navy recently celebrated Overall, the bank saw 3rd quarter annualized include updated room and guest bath designs, the christening of the future USS Montgom- loan and deposit growth of 14 percent and 25 microwave refrigerator combos and other mod- ery (LCS 8). This was the second Indepen- percent respectively, on a linked quarter basis. ern conveniences. dence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Between their current locations in downtown christened at Austal this year and the second and Springhill, the bank currently has 20 em- Local Veterans honored ship named after Alabama’s state capitol. ployees in the area. Future plans are to expand For Veterans Day held this past Tuesday, The Independence-variant LCS vessels are into the Baldwin County market adding up to the Mobile Bay Area Veterans Day Commis- 127-meter (419-foot) aluminum trimarans, two more branches by 2016. sion honored Maj. Gen. Carl McNair Jr. (Ret.), capable of being outfitted with reconfigurable a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran, as payloads (mission packages), which can be Commercial Real Estate Moves Patriot of the Year, along with Veteran of the changed to support mine countermeasure, John Vallas with Vallas Realty has sold the Year Seymour “Sy” Litchtenfeld, who wrote anti-submarine and surface warfare missions. former Tacky Jacks Restaurant located at about his World War II experiences. They were The ship has a maximum speed of more than 40 1175 Battleship Parkway for an undisclosed both recognized during a luncheon held at Fort knots. Montgomery was launched in August and amount to Don Davis, owner of the Texas-based Whiting Armory. is making preparations for trials and delivery Ralph & Kacoo’s franchise. According to McNair, a native of Pensacola, Florida, late next summer. Davis, this will be their fifth addition with eater- served the U.S. Army for more than 32 years “I was extremely excited and proud to repre- ies located in New Orleans, Baton Rouge and in key research and development, infantry and sent Austal as the future USS Montgomery was Bossier City in Louisiana and Lufkin, Texas. Army aviation command and staff positions. His christened today” Craig Perciavalle, Austal USA “We first tried to buy the property four years overseas assignments included Vietnam, Korea president said. “This ship will play an important ago, but back then the owner of Tacky Jack’s and Taiwan with combat service spanning six role in our nation’s defense and we are proud to made a better offer. When Vallas contacted us campaigns during 1967-1969. He was awarded christen her.” again recently, we came back and bought it the Distinguished Flying Cross four times, the Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus officially this time around. I think the location has the Bronze Star with “V” for valor and 53 Air Med- named the ship “Montgomery” at a keel laying potential to become one of our top restaurants,” als while flying more than 1,500 combat hours. ceremony at Austal USA on March 24, 2011, Davis said. After retiring from the Army in 1987, Mc- attended by Austal’s production employees. Turnaround time on sale of the property was Nair served corporate America in several leader- less than 60 days, which was remarkably quick ship positions. In January 2015, he will receive according to Vallas. the Kiddie Hawk Air Academy’s Living Legend “For this to be the first Ralph & Kacoo’s of Aviation award and will join the ranks of

owntown Mobile. It’s the only part of this city that makes me want to leave midtown. The restaurants of downtown are my favorites in terms of variety. From Dauphin and Washington streets all the way down Dto Royal Street, I can damage my girlish figure at plenty of dining establishments. But once you’re near Bienville Square, the weekday lunch rush approaches feeding frenzy status as downtown workers fill table after table fighting for spots to grub. One such hot spot is North Conception Street’s Cotton State BBQ. Cotton State is an addition to our community within the past year or so. Only open for weekday lunch, the ‘que slinging hasn’t slowed down a bit. I paid a visit this past week and with every table full and despite a quick turnover I decided to grab a large helping of food to take home. After all, I was flying solo and couldn’t suffer such a large portion of a menu for you, dear reader, in the presence of other diners. No one should see one man order this much food. I began this day’s exercise in excess with the State Dog ($6). All of the ‘dogs in this establishment are actually smoked Conecuh sausage. Go on and ask me if I have a problem with that. The State is a Photos/Dan Anderson pretty traditional version of a hot dog with dill pickle relish, diced onions, Conception Street’s Cotton State BBQ stays busy during lunches and sauerkraut. I added a packet of mustard and devoured this thing. I serving up no-frills Southern staples a number of different ways. was lucky I didn’t get any on my clothes, and regretted nothing about my decision to bring the food home are. Good for hash and be a helping of this and a sleeve of saltines. with me. The grill marks on the bun not much else. The I have had loaded potatoes here in the past. They are nothing were a nice touch. chili cheese, though to sneeze at. Neither is the banana pudding with the moonpie in They also offer a chili cheese, a delicious, would not the recipe. barbecue, and a jalapeno cheese. I’m see the light of the So here is my honest thought on this place: It’s very good willing to bet they would custom refrigerator. barbecue served in non-traditional ways. The menu is a little build you the dog of your dreams How could I say no limited because most of the real estate is the same toppings on though I was content with the one I to BBQ Nachos ($7)? different vessels. Brisket sandwich, brisket fries, brisket nachos, ordered. The coleslaw that came as You get a choice of brisket potato. BBQ fries, BBQ nachos, BBQ potatoes. The side the side was delightful. There was much less mayonnaise than I meat, and I was still feeling the brisket. The chips were better items are very limited, and there wasn’t much greenery. But normally like, but the vinegar tang was perfect. than your average restaurant chips, and that goes a long way in remember I told you the place was packed. Why? I’ve eaten enough pulled pork in my day, so it was nice to my book. Sprinkled with the meat and that same ballpark cheese Downtowners flock here because these guys do just a few see a BBQ Brisket Sandwich ($7) on the menu. The thinly as the fries, this could easily be a meal. Sour cream, jalapenos things, but they do them very well. It comes out quickly and no- sliced beef was piled high on a sesame seed bun with the sauce and barbecue sauce were on the side. body is in there tying up the tables and pounding beers on their on the side. This was my first shot of sauce that day, and I’ll say Getting away from the barbecue side of the menu I knew lunch hour. It’s about eating and getting out, and for downtown it is impressively smoky. This came with fries that were well the chicken salad sandwich ($5) needed reviewing. I ordered lunch that’s usually what I am looking for. If these guys play seasoned. the Truly Southern Chicken Salad, which normally comes on their cards right they will keep those doors open for many years Speaking of fries, I had to see what the chili cheese fries sourdough – I asked for no bread, just the chicken salad – but to come. ($7) were all about. The same salty fries that came with my received the Classic Chicken Salad. The difference being the sandwich were smothered with a no-bean beef chili and topped Truly Southern has grapes and pecans in the mix. They’re the Cotton State BBQ with nacho cheese. My regret was that my boy Lucas was slav- same price, and I can forgive the oversight. 101 N. Conception St. ing away in school and missing out on this. He’s a no-bean chili This plain scoop of chicken salad was fine on its own. Made Mobile, Alabama fan, as we discovered Halloween night when he picked all of the with smoked white meat chicken, you get the flavor immedi- beans out of my chili recipe. But you know how leftover fries ately. It’s not at all dry, and not at all soupy. A great lunch would 251-545-4682

20 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 W ORD OF MOUTH CUISINE CC James Beard chefs congregate for excellent meal on Dauphin Island BY ANDY MACDONALD/CUISINE EDITOR | [email protected]

t was a beautiful Nov. 2 on Dauphin Island, The “House That Delicato Built” and 150-plus people were in for an after- noon meal that would be the first of its kind. draws crowd and delivers Last week’s Italian Fisherman wine dinner Sunday Supper Gulf Coast braved the odds closed out the season with a bang. Possibly the Iand went off without a hitch right in the middle best one yet, I was impressed by the lobster of the immaculately kept and historically cakes with slaw mix and Asian sauce, but significant Fort Gaines. Ten chefs with ties to favored the unlikely Chicken Piccata over but- the James Beard Foundation either as award tered pasta with the oaky Handcraft Chardon- winners or nominees battled a lack of ameni- nay. ties, a chilly wind, and an absence of tele- The dry rub glazed baby back ribs were a vised football to produce a creative feast that crowd favorite with the Noble Vines No. 1 Red reinforces their significance in the southeastern Blend and the evening was capped off with restaurant community. some stellar international cheeses (my favorite It was an honor to serve as emcee of this was a smoky onion) and fresh fruit with a 2012 amazing event, and I received a few chuckles Belle Ambiance Riesling. from my wind-blown look and my pronuncia- Friends were made and groundwork was laid tion of Schloss Gobelsburg Gruner Veltliner for future dinners of this nature. Many are eager Gobelsburger, but the coordinators still made for next season to get here. We will keep you sure I dined in style. posted of the next event. Each of the five courses came complete with wine pairings and two chefs per course got to do what they do best. Chef Chris Hastings, And the Apple of the season is … Last fall I was Golden Delicious crazy, and JBF Award Winner of Hot and Hot Fish Club I wasn’t alone. You would see these beauties in Birmingham served as chief cook and bottle popping up in recipes from Southern Living to washer. When he found out the fort’s original countless websites, and the slightly softer fruit oven was still operational he knew he had to found its way into my kitchen in skillet pies and use it. The result was a dense crusty bread from cheese pairings. For this year’s trend in apples which I could not steer clear. I am predicting the deserved Honeycrisp to be Other memorable dishes included oysters and king of the orchard. dumplings, whole snapper, by-catch boil in a The Honeycrisp is almost a one-eighty from bag, and a finish of cornmeal and buttermilk tres Golden Delicious, and the applications are leches. Speaking of dishes, Earthborn Pottery varied. The firmer fruit and the sweetness of a provided some beautiful platters and bowls add- SweeTART lend itself to dishes that lean toward ing a homegrown touch of class to the meal. the savory side of the palate. In my quest to If I read the menu in its entirety you would find one apple and exhaust possibilities I have kick yourself for missing this event, but don’t recently called upon the Honeycrisp for several get too upset. The South Mobile County Board endeavors. of Tourism has ensured me that this is an One successful yet simple creation came inaugural event, so plan on next year to be even from my love of pork and apples. My children bigger. We will surely keep you posted. love pork chops and store bought applesauce, so I came up with this easy recipe to satisfy my Bay Bites brings food trucks together adult cravings. If you’re grabbing this issue of Lagniappe the day it hits the stands, Cooper Riverside Park will be a parking lot of grub wagons for Mobile Baykeeper’s Bay Bites Food Truck Festival held Ingredients Wednesday, Nov. 12, 5:30–8:30 p.m. It is billed as an evening of great food and cold beer with 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and coarsely names you know in the Mobile food industry chopped including Geaux Boy, Island Thyme, Los Tacos, 1 medium white onion coarsely chopped Von’s, and Coco Bay. The $10 wristband in- 1 stick of butter cludes beer, so thirst is not an issue. Live music Salt to taste will be provided by Roman Street and all proceeds will benefit Mobile Baykeeper. It’s a bit Melt the butter in a large skillet. The onion last-minute, but tickets will be sold at the door. and the apples should be chopped in about the same dimensions, but you should go as large or Regina’s Kitchen now serving brunch small as you wish. Sauté the onion until tender. Midtown’s favorite Regina’s Kitchen just Add the apples and salt. Cook over medium heat gave you another reason to visit. The locally until the desired texture is achieved. Serve with owned and operated joint at 2056 Government pork. St. is now serving a brunch sure to please. I just received the menu and my mouth is watering. Some may prefer a firmer sauce, others Appetizers of fried stuffed egg with creole sauce may wish for the apple to disintegrate. Don’t or shrimp remoulade get me going. Salads with be afraid to add a pinch of ground clove or goat cheese and apples, grits and grillades, perhaps some rosemary. The bare bones result crabmeat and shrimp quiche, salmon croquettes was simply marvelous with savory chops, but I over hashbrowns, beer, wine, bourbon punch, can’t wait to serve this with a pork loin. Have I’m only scratching the surface. Order the four- fun with it and experiment. Now is the time for course, pre-fix menu for the full experience. apples! Lightweights will be thankful for the a la carte options. Recycle!

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 21 WINTzEll’S oYSTER HoUSE ($-$$) D’ MICHAEl’S ($) 3011 Springhill Ave. • 476-2232 Inside the Mobile Marriott. 605 Dauphin St. • 432-4605 Philly cheese steaks, gyros & more. MElloW MUSHRooM ($) 3101 Airport Blvd. • 476-6400 6700 Airport Blvd. • 341-1111 7101-A Theodore Dawes Rd. Pies & awesome beer selection. SAToRI CoFFEEHoUSE ($) 1208 Shelton Beach Rd., 653-2979 2032 Airport Blvd. • 471-4700 Coffee, smoothies, lunch & beers. Saraland • 442-3335 DElISH DESSERTS ($) 5660 Old Shell Rd. • 380-1500 5460 Old Shell Rd. • 344-4575 zEA’S ($$) Great desserts & hot lunch MoMMA GolDBERG’S DElI ($) SERDA’S CoFFEEHoUSE ($) Gourmet rotisserie with prime rib 23 Upham St. • 473-6115 Sandwiches & Momma’s Love. Coffee, lunches, live music & gelato. $ uNDeR $10/peRSoN & seafood. DEW DRoP INN ($) 3696 Airport Blvd. • 344-9500 3 Royal St. S. • 415-3000 $$ 10-25/peRSoN 4671 Airport Blvd. • 344-7414 Classic burgers, hotdogs & setting. 5602 Old Shell Rd. • 287-6556 SMokEY DEMBo SMokE HoUSE ($) $$$ oveR 25/peRSoN 1808 Old Shell Rd. • 473-7872. MoNTEGo’S ($-$$) 3758 Dauphin Island Pkwy. • 473-1401 DoWNToWNERS ($) Fresh Caribbean-style food & craft SPoT oF TEA ($) Great sandwiches, soups & salads. beer. 6601 Airport Blvd. • 634-3445 Mobile’s favorite spot for breakfast & lunch. Completely 306 Dauphin St. • 433-9009. 107 Dauphin St. • 433 8868 MoSTlY MUFFINS ($) SoUTHERN DECADENCE DESSERTS ($) Business Casual ComfortaBle E WING HoUSE ($) Muffins, coffee & wraps. BoNEFISH GRIll ($$) Al’S HoTDoGS ($) Soups, Salads, Desserts & Sandwiches. 195 S University Suite H 105 Dauphin St. • 433-9855 1956 B University Blvd. • 300-8304 Eclectic dining & space. Classic hotdogs, gyros & milkshakes 662-1830. 2212 Dauphin Island MUDBUGS AT THE looP ($) STEvIE’S kITCHEN ($) 6955 Airport Blvd. • 633-7196 4701 Airport Blvd. • 342-3243 Pkwy • 479-2021 Cajun Kitchen & seafood market. Sandwiches, stuffed potatoes, BAUDEAN’S ($$) ASHlAND MIDToWN PUB ($-$$) FIREHoUSE SUBS ($) 2005 Government St. • 478-9897 soups, salads & desserts Fried, grilled, steamed & always Pizzas, pastas, & calzones. Hot subs, cold salads & catering. MUG SHoTS ($$) 41 West I-65 Service Rd. N Suite 150. fresh. 3300 River Rd. 973-9070 245-A Old Shell Rd. 479-3278 6300 Grelot Rd. Bar & Grill. TAMARA’S BAR & GRIll ($) BoUDREAUX’S CAJUN GRIll ($-$$) ATlANTA BREAD CoMPANY ($-$$) 6255 Airport Blvd. • 447-2514 Wings, po-boys, burgers. Sandwiches, salads & more. 631-3730 Quality Cajun & New Orleans 3680 FISHERMAN’S lEGACY ($) NEWk’S EXPRESS CAFE ($) 210 Eastern Shore Center, Hwy. 98 Cuisine. 29249 US Highway 98 Dauphin St. • 380-0444 Deli, market and catering. Oven-baked sandwiches & more. • 929-0002 Daphne. 621-1991 BENJAMIN’S ($) TP CRoCkMIERS ($) Burgers,wings and seafood. 4380 Halls Mill Rd. • 665-2266 252 Azalea Rd. • 341-3533 ED’S SEAFooD SHED ($$) FIvE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES ($) olD 27 GRIll ($) American Restaurant & Bar Fried seafood served in hefty 2107 Airport Blvd. • 450-9377 BRIQUETTES STEAkHoUSE ($-$$) 4401 Old Shell Rd. • 447-2393 Burgers, dogs & 27 beers & wines. 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890 portions. 3382 Hwy. 98 • 625-1947 4663 Airport Blvd. • 300-8425 19992 Hwy. 181 Old County Rd. THE BlIND MUlE ($) FElIX’S FISH CAMP ($$) Grilled steaks, chicken and Daily specials made from scratch. seafood. FooSACklY’S ($) Fairhope • 281-2663 Upscale dining with a view. 720A Schillinger Rd. S. 57 N. Claiborne St. • 694-6853. Suite 2. • 607-7200 Famous chicken fingers. oRlEANS Po-BoYS ($-$$) 1420 Hwy. 98 • 626-6710 310 S. University Blvd. • 343-0047 Po-boys, gumbo, seafood & wings. THE HoUSE ($-$$) CAFE 219 ($) Seafood, sandwiches, salads & soups HAlF SHEll oYSTER HoUSE ($) Salads, sandwiches & potato salad. 2250 Airport Blvd. • 479-2922 960 Schillinger Rd S. • 633-3900 4513 Old shell Rd. • 408-9622 3654 Airport Blvd. • 338-9350 219 Conti St. • 438-5234 7641 Airport Blvd. • 607-7667 oRlEANS CAFE ($-$$) lEGACY BAR & GRIll ($$$) Po-boys, gumbo, seafood & wings. THE HUNGRY oWl ($) CAFE MAlBIS ($) 2558 Schillinger Rd. • 219-7761. Burgers, flatbread pizza & seafood. American, Seafood,Stekhouse. Contemporary fare & eclectic 3249 Dauphin St. • 479-2000 3721 Airport Blvd. • 380-1503 9 Du Rhu Dr. S. • 341-3370 7899 Cottage Hill Rd. • 633-4479 spirits. 28396 Hwy. 181, Daphne • ISTANBUl GRIll ($) PANINI PETE’S ($) THREE GEoRGES CANDY SHoP ($) lUCY B. GooDE ($$) 661-6620 Authentic Turkish Resturant. Original sandwich and bake shop. Gulf Coast cuisine, reinvented. CAJUN SEAFooD ($) Light lunch with Southern flair. 3702 Airport Blvd. • 461-6901 42 1/2 Section St., Fairhope • 929-0122 226 Dauphin St. • 433-6725 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores Seafood market & deli fresh JAMAICAN vIBE ($) 19 S. Conception St. • 405-0031 TRoPICAl SMooTHIE ($) 967-5858 seafood. 408 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mind-blowing island food. PDQ ($) Great smoothies, wraps & sandwiches. lUlU’S ($$) 478-9897 3700 Government Blvd. Ste A Chicken fingers, salad & sandwiches. Live music & great seafood. CAMIllE’S SIDEWAlk CAFé ($) Du Rhu Dr. • 378-5648 602-1973 1165 University Blvd. • 202-0959 570 Schillinger Road • 634-3454 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores Gourmet wraps, pizzas, & more. JACk’S CATFISH CAMP ($$) QUEEN G’S CAFé ($) WIlD WING STATIoN ($) 967-5858 5817 Old Shell Rd. Steak & Seafood Down home cooking for lunch. 1500 Government St. • 287-1526 oRIGINAl oYSTER HoUSE ($-$$) 343-0200 4815 Halls Mill Rd. • 661-4434 2518 Old Shell Rd. • 471-3361 YAk THE kATHMANDU kITCHEN A great place for kids and CAMEllIA CAFé ($-$$$) REGINA’S kITCHEN ($-$$) ($-$$)Authentic foods from Contemporary southern fare. JIMMY JoHN’S ($) seafood. 3733 Hwy. 98 • 626-2188 Sandwiches, catering & delivery Sandwiches, subs and soups. Himalayan region. 61 Section St., Fairhope oYSTER RoCkEFEllER ($$-$$$) 312 too. 6920 Airport Blvd. • 414-5444 2056 Government St. • 476-2777 3210 Dauphin St. • 287-0115 Schillingers Rd. • 607-9527 928-4321 JoE CAIN CAFé ($) RIvER SHACk ($-$$) RICE ASIAN GRIll & SUSHI BAR ($) CAMMIE’S olD DUTCH ($) Mobile’s classic ice cream spot. Pizzas, sandwiches, cocktails. Seafood, burgers & steaks. 3964 Government Blvd. • 378-8083 2511 Old Shell Rd. • 471-1710 26 N. Royal St. • 338-2000 6120 Marina Dr., Dog River • 443-7318. ‘Cue THE HARBoR RooM ($-$$) kITCHEN oN GEoRGE ($-$$) RolY PolY ($) BACkYARD CAFE & BBQ ($) Unique seafood. CARPE DIEM ($) Deli foods, pastries & specialty Contemporary American food. Wraps & salads. Home cookin’ like momma made. 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000 351A George & Savannah St. 809 Hillcrest Rd. • 607-6378 TACkY JACkS ($-$$) drinks. 4072 Old Shell Rd. 2804 Springhill Ave. • 473-4739 304-0448 436-8890 3220 Dauphin St. • 479-2480 BAR-B-QUING WITH MY HoNEY ($$) Gulf Shores favorite on the Causeway. RoMA CAFE ($-$$) CHAT-A-WAY CAFE ($) lAP’S GRoCERY & GRIll ($-$$) BBQ, burgers, wings & seafood 1175 Battleship Pkwy. • 621-8988 Quiches & sandwiches in Spring Casual Seafood & southern Pasta, salad and sandwiches. TP CRoCkMIERS ($-$$) 19170 Hwy 43 Mt. Vernon. • 839-9927 Hill. 4366 Old Shell Rd. 343-9889 classics. 1595 Battleship Parkway, 7143 Airport Blvd. • 341-7217 BRICk PIT ($) American Restaurant & Bar CHICkEN SAlAD CHICk ($) Spanish Fort • 626-0045 RoSIE’S GRIll ($-$$) 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890 Sandwich, Chicken Salad, Salad & MAGHEE’S GRIll oN THE HIll Sandwiches, southwest fare, 7 days. A favorite barbecue spot. THE BlUEGIll ($-$$) Soup. 2370 S. Hillcrest Rd. Unit R • ($-$$) Great lunch & dinner. 1203 Hwy 98 Ste. 3D, Daphne 5456 Old Shell Rd. • 343-0001 A historic seafood dive with live 660-0501 3607 Old Shell Rd. • 445-8700 626-2440 DREAMlAND BBQ ($) music. 3775 Hwy. 98 • 625-1998 CRAvIN CAJUN ($) MAMA’S ($) RoYAl kNIGHT ($) Ribs, sandwiches & great sides. THE ITAlIAN FISHERMAN ($$) Po-boys, salads & seafood. Slap your mama good home cooking. Steak night on fridays. 3314 Old Shell Rd. • 479-9898. Seafood Italian style. 1870 Dauphin Island Pkwy 220 Dauphin St. • 432-6262 3004 Gov’t Blvd • 287-1270 MoE’S oRIGINAl BAR B QUE ($) 2503 Old Shell Rd. • 478-2881 287-1168 MARS HIll CAFE ($) RoYAl STREET CAFE ($) Bar-b-que & music. CREAM & SUGAR ($) Bayfront Park TIN ToP RESTAURANT & oYSTER BAR ($$) Great sandwiches, coffee & more. Homemade lunch & breakfast. Dr., Daphne • 625-RIBS Best seafood, premium aged Breakfast, lunch in Oakleigh. Ice 5025 Cottage Hill Rd. • 643-1611 104 N. Royal St. • 434-0011 701 Springhill Ave. • 410-7427 steaks, extensive wine list. 6232 Bon cream too. MARY’S SoUTHERN CookING ($) SAGE RESTAURANT ($$) Secour Hwy County Rd. 10.• 949-5086 351 George St. #B • 405-0003

22 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 RoYAl STREET TAvERN BUTCH CASSIDY’S ($) 225 Dauphin St. • 441-7685 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 Live music,martinis & a light dinner Famous burgers, sandwiches & DAUPHIN ST. TAQUERIA ($) JIA AT BEAU RIvAGE ($-$$) menu. 26 N. Royal St. • 338-2000 wings. 60 N. Florida St. • 450-0690. Enchiladas, tacos, & authentic Exotic Japanese, Thai, Chinese, SoUTHERN NAPA CAllAGHAN’S IRISH SoCIAl ClUB fare. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-2453 Korean & Vietnamese cuisine. Bistro plates, craft beers and pantry. ($) Burgers & beer. El CHARRo ($) 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 Finest Mexican in WeMo. 2304 Main Street. • 375-2800 916 Charleston St. • 433-9374 MEMPHIS Q AT BEAU RIvAGE ($) SAUCY Q BARBQUE ($) HERoES SPoRTS BAR & GRIllE ($) 7751 Airport Blvd. • 607-0882 Memphis-style Q. Award-winning BarBQue. Sandwiches & cold beer. FUEGo ($-$$) 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 Outstanding Mexican cuisine. CoAST RESTAURANT AT BEAU 1111 Government Blvd. • 433-7427 273 Dauphin St. • 433-4376. WHISTlE SToP ($) falafel? try 2066 Old Shell Rd. • 378-8621 RIvAGE ($) Hillcrest & Old Shell Rd. • 341-9464 loS ARCoS ($) Sports bar-style joint. Home cookin’ & BBQ. some Hummus MCSHARRY’S IRISH PUB ($) 110 S. Florida St. • 478-7427 Quaint Mexican restaurant. 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 7 SPICE ($-$$) Brillant Reubens & Fish-N-Chips 5556 Old Shell Rd. • 345-7484 lB’S STEAkHoUSE AT GRAND Healthy, delicious Mediterranean food. 101 N. Brancroft St. Fairhope lA CoCINA ($) CASINo ($$-$$$) 3762 Airport Blvd. • 725-1177 990-5100 Authentic Mexican cuisine. Fine dining with juicy steak Drop DeaD ABBA’S MEDITERRANEAN THE lANDING ($) 4633 Airport Blvd. • 342-5553 & fine wine. CAFE ($-$$) From seafood to steaks. SANTA FE GRIll ($) 280 Beach Blvd. • 800-946-2946 Gourmet Locally-owned, fresh cuisine. CUU loNG SUPER PHo AT GRAND AlABAMA CRUISES ($$) Beef, lamb & seafood. 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy. • 973-2696 lUCkY’S IRISH PUB ($) 3160 Bel Air Mall • 450-2440 CASINo ($$) Fine dining & sailing from 4356 Old Shell Rd. • 340-6464 Of JERUSAlEM CAFE ($-$$) Irish pub fare & more. Asian noodle soups, bubble teas Orange Beach • 973-1244 & more. Mobile’s oldest Middle Eastern cuisine. 3692 Airport Blvd • 414-3000 BAY GoURMET ($$) THE STADIUM ($) 280 Beach Blvd. • 800-946-2946 A premier caterer & cooking classes. 5773 Airport Blvd. • 304-1155 no GamBlinG EMERIl’S GUlF CoAST FISH HoUSE kAN zAMAN CAFE ($) Catch the games with great food. 1880-A Airport Blvd. • 450-9051 19270 Hwy. 98 Fairhope Casino fare AT ISlAND vIEW CASINo ($$-$$$) CAFé 615 ($$-$$$) 326 Azalea Rd. • 229-4206 990-0408 atmore Kick it up a notch. American fare with local ingredients. MEDITERRANEAN SANDWICH WEMoS ($) 3300 W. Beach Blvd. • 877-774-8439 FIRE AT WIND CREEk CASINo & C&G GRIllE AT ISlAND vIEW 615 Dauphin St. • 432-8434. CoMPANY ($) Great & quick. Wings, tenders, hotdogs & sandwiches. HoTEl ($$-$$$) CAFé RoYAl ($$-$$$) 274 Dauphin St. • 545-3161 CASINo ($) 312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-5877 World-class prime steaks, seafood Large breakfast, lunch or dinner Prime steak & seafood in elegant setting. 2502 Schillinger Rd. Ste. 2 • 725-0126 & wine. menu. 3300 W. Beach Blvd. 101 N. Royal St. • 405-5251 MINT HookAH BISTRo ($) 303 Poarch Rd. • 866-946-3360 NoJA ($$-$$$) Great Mediterranean food. GRIll AT WIND CREEk CASINo & 877-774-8439 Inventive & very fresh cuisine. mama mia! WAHoo’S PoolSIDE BAR AND 5951 Old Shell Rd. • 450-9191 BENTz’S PIzzA PUB ($) HoTEl ($) GRIll AT PAlACE CASINo RESoRT 6 N. Jackson St. • 433-0377 zoRBA THE GREEk ($-$$) Contemporary & old-fashioned oSMAN’S RESTAURANT ($$) Homemade pizza and Italian dishes. ($-$$) Shawarmah & baba ghanouj. favorites. Fresh seafood & more. Supreme European cuisine. 28567 County Rd. 13 • 625-6992 303 Poarch Rd. • 866-946-3360 2579 Halls Mill Rd. • 479-0006. 1222 Hillcrest Rd, Ste. D • 633-2202 BUCk’S PIzzA ($$) 158 Howard Ave. • 800-725-2239 Delivery. MIGNoN’S AT PAlACE CASINo RoYAl SCAM ($$) Biloxi RESoRT ($$-$$$) Gumbo, Angus beef & bar. 350 Dauphin St. • 431-9444 vIBE AT HARD RoCk HoTEl far eastern fare GAMBINo BRoTHERS ($) Extraordinary wine, steaks & 72. S. Royal St. • 432-SCAM (7226) AND CASINo ($-$$) seafood. BANGkok THAI ($-$$) Homemade pastas & sandwiches. Fine surf, turf, atmosphere & cigars. RUTH’S CHRIS STEAk HoUSE ($$$) Delicious, traditional Thai cuisine. 158 Howard Ave. • 800-725-2239 Exceptional service & taste. 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-625 3821 Airport Blvd. • 344-9995 873 Hillcrest Ave. • 344-8115 THE DEN AT TREASURE BAY 271 Glenwood St. • 476-0516 BANzAI JAPANESE RESTAURANT GAMBINo’S ITAlIAN GRIll ($) RUTH’S CHRIS STEAk HoUSE AT CASINo ($-$$) TAMARA’S DoWNToWN ($$) Italian, Steaks, Seafood, HARD RoCk HoTEl & CASINo ($$$) Intimate & casual with daily ($$) Traditional sushi & lunch. Exceptional servie & taste. Casual fine dining. 312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-9077 18 Laurel Ave. Fairhope • 990-0995 specials. GUIDo’S ($$) 777 Beach Blvd • 877-877-6256 104 N. Section St., Fairhope GolDEN BoWl ($) HARD RoCk CAFé AT HARD RoCk 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747-2839 929-2219 Hibachi Grill & Asian Cuisine Fresh cuisine nightly on menu. HoTEl AND CASINo ($) CQ AT TREASURE BAY CASINo ($$-$$$) UNIoN ($$$) 309 Bell Air Blvd • 470-8033 1709 Main St., Daphne • 626-6082 Elegant atmosphere & tantalizing Premium steaks & burgers. lIQUID ($$) American fare & rockin’ memorabilia. entrees. lA RoSSA ($$) 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-6256 659 Dauphin St. • 432-0300 Amazing sushi & assortment of Catering and Market. 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747-2839 SATISFACTIoN AT HARD RoCk BlU AT TREASURE BAY CASINo ($) THE BUll ($-$$) rolls. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-0109 1716 Main St. Ste. C, Daphne HoTEl AND CASINo ($) N. Mexico/Santa Fe & Gulf Coast cuisine. MIkATo JAPANESE STEAk HoUSE Lounge with cocktails & tapas 625-0345 Southern favorites & fresh- menu. 609 Dauphin St. • 378-5091 ($$) Upscale sushi & specialties. PICklEFISH ($$) smoked meats. 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747-2839 THE TREllIS RooM ($$$) 364 Azalea Rd. • 343-6622 Pizza, sandwiches & salads. 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-6256 Italian dishes & local flair. RoCk N Roll SUSHI ($$) MARGARITAvIllE 5955 Old Shell Rd.• 344-9899 TIEN AT IP CASINo Battle House Hotel, Royal St. • 338-5493 3299 Bel Air Mall. • 287-0445 RESTAURANT ($$$) WASABI SUSHI ($$) PAPA’S PlACE ($$) RESoRT SPA ($-$$) Burgers, salads, specialties & A Taste of Italy . BYOB. Pan-Asian cuisine made in front more. Japanese cusine of you. 3654 Airport Blvd. S. C • 725-6078 28691 U.S. Highway 98, Daphne 160 5th St. • 855-667-677 a little Vino 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 FEEDING FRENzY BUFFET ($-$$) DoMkE MARkET YEN RESTAURANT ($) 626-1999 HIGHlIGHTS SPoRTS loUNGE AT IP Authentic Vietnamese cuisine. RAvENITE ($) (MARGARITAvIllE CASINo) Wine, Craft Beer, Gourmet foods, CASINo RESoRT SPA ($) Featuring Gulf Coast Cuisine 763 Holcombe Ave. • 478-5814 Pizza, Pasta, Salad & more Brews & game on 65 screens. & more. 2410 Dawes Rd. Ste. D. 160 5th St. • 855-667-677 Jubilee Shopping Center, Daphne 102 N. Section St. • 929-2525 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 375-0599 625-4695 vIA EMIlIA ($$) MARINA AT lANDSHARk FATHoMS loUNGE HIGH TIDE CAFé AT IP CASINo lANDING($-$$) A tapas reaturant, cocktails & live Homemade pastas & pizzas made RESoRT SPA ($) daily. (MARGARITAvIllE CASINo) music 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000 is tHe Game on? 5901 Old Shell Rd. • 342-3677 Casual & relaxing, extensive menu. 4 portable food stations. RED oR WHITE BUFFAlo WIlD WINGS ($) 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 160 5th St. • 855-667-6777 323A De La Mare Ave, Fairhope • 990-0003 olé mi amiGo! BR PRIME AT BEAU RIvAGE ($$-$$$) Best wings & sporting events. CABo CoASTAl CANTINA ($) Fine dining establishment. 1104 Dauphin St.. • 478-9494 6341 Airport Blvd. • 378-5955

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 23 CC THIRSTY WORK CUISINE Pairing with pecans, without appearing nuts BY SUSAN LARSSON/CONTRIBUTING WRITER | [email protected]

he arrival of pecan season in lower You could easily down a glass of Clayhouse Alabama may not be an occasion that’s Cabernet on its own, but Kitchen on George made you wonder what to drink – paired it with a pecan-crusted salmon filet despite pecan festivals, Pecan Queens (with dollop of mustard to help the pecans Tand restaurant menus featuring numerous stick) and I was truly impressed. It was obvi- pecan-laden dishes. It’s not Mardi Gras, after ous to me that, although the wine would’ve all. But those menu items do raise a legitimate gone fine with salmon alone, the chef had put question: What pairs with the crunchy, dense, thought into his pecan-crust pairing, which roasted nuttiness of locally grown pecans? really made this wine sing. It went equally Part of the answer depends, of course, on well with pecan-crusted chicken breast, and what you make with pecans – and pie is merely you wouldn’t normally pair Cab with Chicken. the tip of the culinary iceberg. Savory pecans Clayhouse 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red (i.e., plain roasted, roasted and salted, or Cedar Vineyard; 13.75 percent ABV; $12-$15, roasted and spiced in just about any way that at retailers served by International Wines. doesn’t involve sugar) work as appetizers, in At the opposite end of the flavor spectrum, salads or as a crunchy crust for baked chicken I also like Peregrine Wines’ 2009 Pinot Noir or fish. I just ate a fabulous dinner at Kitchen as a pecan match, and possibly as a wine to see on George, in fact, that highlighted some of you through your entire Thanksgiving dinner. pecans’ culinary flexibility … but I don’t write If you’re expecting another Clayhouse, expect about food, so I’m going to tell you about two again. This wine zings along your palate with wines that melded perfectly with those pecans, tart red-cherry flavors and acidity that takes no along with some wine and beer pecan-pairing prisoners. I wouldn’t pour this as a stand-alone ideas of my own. wine, but I’d definitely trot it out with turkey Pecans, like most nuts, are naturally fatty. — as well as butternut squash soup, baked yam That’s why you can toast them in a skillet casserole (pecans on top, of course), green without adding oil (although I’ll never argue beans (there’s room in the bowl for shaved with a dab of butter). Anyway, for wine pairing pecans) and quite probably leave it on the table we fall back on our rule: acid goes with fat. for dessert. You bring the fat and this wine will To implement this rule, I like Sincerely clean it up. Sauvignon Blanc, served at the aforemen- Peregrine Wines has been bottling Pinot tioned Kitchen on George dinner. Sincerely Noir in New Zealand since 1998 and is known is one of several lines produced by Neil Ellis for “wines with attitude,” but also for attention Wines from vineyards they hold in South to detail. The 2009 Peregrine Pinot Noir, which Africa. It’s a delicious, easy-drinking Sauvi- was entirely hand-harvested, won multiple tro- gnon Blanc, not as sharp or brittle as its New phies for excellence and rates a 90 from Wine Zealand or California counterparts (I might’ve Advocate. It was aged for 10 months in oak, so mistaken it for an un-oaked Chardonnay if I you’ll find a mild tannic edge alongside the tart hadn’t known better). But while it’s rounder cherries. If it seems slightly astringent on first and smoother than many Sauvignon Blancs, opening, decant and let it breathe for an hour. it’s light and very fresh with subtle acidity. 13.5 percent ABV; less than 1g/litre residual Sincerely pours quite pale, but pungent sugar; $25-$35 depending — but a $23-bar- white-flower aromas rise above the glass to gain at Food Pak on Old Shell Road. greet your nose, followed by a range of ripe For sweet pecans, maybe your honey- fruit flavors in the sip (lemon curd, ripe pine- roasted variety, you want to match like flavors apple and mango). This is not a passion-fruit with like, and here’s where beer comes in. You bomb (although passion-fruit bombs have their want a darker, richer beer to pair with pecans, place, on hot summer evenings especially). and if there’s honey in the mix, so much the Kitchen on George paired it with a green salad better. Our neighbor Fairhope Brewing Com- featuring Roquefort, pear slices and pecans pany has brought out their French Quarter and topped with a Dijon-based vinaigrette and Porter, each batch made with 27 pounds of the wine not only accentuated the pecans, it locally sourced honey from Kittrell’s Day- played nice with the vinaigrette, too. dream Apiary in Fairhope (Weeks Bay area). Sincerely Sauvignon Blanc, 2014; 13.5 This is a low-alcohol (4.5 percent ABV) and percent ABV; 3g/litre residual sugar; $12-$15 low-bitterness (25 IBUs) beer, made with one at retailers served by International Wines and aromatic hop variety (East Kent Golding). Craft Beer, Birmingham. You may have to take your own pecans to the If you prefer red wine, though, I’ve got taproom, but Fairhope won’t mind (so long as two ideas for you. First, Clayhouse Cabernet you share). Back Forty Beer Company’s Truck Sauvignon from Clayhouse Wines – a fourth- Stop Honey Brown Ale should be a pleasing generation family winery in Paso Robles, pecan-match, too, suitable for football view- California. This Cabernet will surprise you, ing. particularly if you’re used to Napa Cabs, be- Lastly, pecans toasted with cinnamon call cause it’s noticeably softer and less tannic than for New Belgium’s Trippel, an ale brewed its cousins to the north. Paso Robles is known with coriander. This is my go-to “after-dinner primarily for producing purple-y, fruity, easy- beer,” with its rich body, slightly sweet spice drinking Zinfandels whose influence is appar- and low-level fizz. It’s a treat with spicy sweet ent in Clayhouse. It’s a fruit-forward wine with pecans and, while I’d never say I’m not nuts, flavors of Bing cherry, plum and cinnamon, you can trust me on this one. meant to be drank fairly young.

24 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014| 25 COVER STORY Man without limbs inspires loving ‘without limits’ BY CASANDRA ANDREWS

orn without arms or legs, Nick Vujicic feared he would uses a specially designed motorized chair to get most places. He’s always be a burden to his parents. He worried, too, that he visited more than 50 countries, met nine heads of state at last count would never find a woman to love him unconditionally. The and had spoken to crowds as large as 110,000. More than 30 mil- thoughts haunted him even as a young child. lion people have viewed his YouTube videos. His books have been BBy the time he was 10, he recalled, he tried to end his life. “I translated into more than two dozen languages. couldn’t see hope,” he’s said. “I’m so thankful I’m still here be- For several years, a film crew has followed him around, taping cause I didn’t give up.” segments for his mission-based website Life without Limbs, which What sustained him through a painful adolescence were loving is also the nonprofit organization he leads in Los Angeles. Recent parents he calls heroes. Born to Serbian refugees in 1982 in Mel- footage showed him on a tour of Mexico in late October, with thou- bourne, Australia, Vujicic’s father started his own church, working sands cramming into outdoor sports arenas to listen to his words of three jobs to support his family. hope and healing. “They always said ‘You can be angry for what you don’t have, “You will not reach your full potential until you seek it,” he or grateful for what you do have.’” shouted to a group in one of his taped messages. “You will not seek Gratitude became his mantra. Encouraged by a high school jani- it until you believe it’s there.” tor to share his story with others, Vujicic’s first speaking engage- His camera crew will accompany him to Fairhope for an upcom- ment came at age 17. Two years later, while in college earning a ing web series that begins in December, organizers said. double degree in accounting and financial planning, he began talking to students about self-esteem issues, bullying, eating disorders Baldwin County teen to meet Vujicic Friday and suicide. When he’s on the Eastern Shore later this week, Vujicic is plan- Those early talks became the foundation for a successful career ning to meet with a Daphne High School senior, Chrysalis Faith in faith-based motivational speaking that mixes humor about his Nowell, who was born with arthrogryposis. own struggles with Christian evangelism. Today, he has been fea- Arthrogryposis is a term used to describe a number of rare tured on the TV program 20/20, recently shared a stage with Oprah conditions characterized by stiff joints, also known as contractures, Winfrey and has more than 5.2 million Facebook fans. and abnormally developed muscles. People with the condition typi- The 30-year-old is already a prolific writer, a New York Times cally have joints that don’t move as much as normal and may even Photo/Dan Anderson best-selling author, and now a husband and father. Vujicic and be stuck in one position. Often the muscles around these joints are his wife, Kanea, have written a new book “Love Without Limits: thin, weak, stiff or missing. A Remarkable Story of True Love Conquering All.” In the book, Known as Chrysa by family and friends, the 18-year-old also Chrysa Nowell of Daphne competes on the high available Nov. 18, the couple talk about what drew them together uses a motorized chair because she is unable to walk on her own. school swim team. “I wanted to be part of some- and the struggles they grappled with before marriage. An active member of her school’s competitive swim team, she was thing,” she said. Nick Vujicic is the featured speaker Friday evening for the recognized earlier this week by her teammates for her drive and second annual Bay of the Holy Spirit Jubilee, a fundraiser for the determination. what an inspiration she is to them. Good Life Foundation held at Fairhope United Methodist Church’s “I wanted to be part of something,” she said. “I tried to figure “I hear it at least three times a week,” she said, smiling. “I don’t Christian Life Center. out what could be the best for me. I asked coach just to practice think you ever get used to that. When you know you can help Vujicic also will be one of the authors featured during the Junior with them and he said, ‘You are going to swim.’’’ people try harder, it’s really exciting.” League of Mobile’s 30th annual Christmas Jubilee at 10 a.m. Satur- For her, the act of swimming is freeing. The youngest of three sisters, Chrysa plans to enter college next day, Nov. 15 at The Grounds off Zeigler Boulevard in west Mobile. “I just feel mobilized. I’ve never been able to move the way I do fall and wants to pursue a career in childhood education. Her teach- Admission is $10 to the Saturday event. when I’m in the water. I’m not strapped to a chair. I’m not relying ers and coaches, she said, have pushed her in positive ways to help Karin Wilson, owner of Page and Palette, who worked to bring on technology to take me where I want to go.” her reach her full potential. Vujicic to coastal Alabama for the speaking engagement Friday, On a recent Tuesday evening at the Fairhope Recreation Center, “It’s really welcoming to me,” Chrysa said of her high school said she’s looking forward to hearing him in person: “He really Chrysa was helped into the Olympic-size pool by her coach and swim coach. “He just puts me in the pool and tells me to ‘Go, go, does speak to all walks of life. I think the biggest message he has two teammates. While she can’t swim as fast as those with full use go.’ If I say ‘I’m tired,’ he says ‘That’s good.’ ” is regardless of the hand you are dealt, it is all about your attitude of their arms and legs, she never quits. This night was no excep- Chrysa said her mother, Angel, has encouraged her to be as about life, it is all about being content with what you have. With tion. When the buzzer sounded, she lunged forward, face above the independent as possible. Even her given name, Chrysalis, hints at a everything he has done and his strong faith, he really can teach us a water, determination flashing across her features. As the seconds remarkable transformation. lot about what love really is.” ticked by, people began gathering at the side of the pool where she “It stands for the stage of the butterfly when it gets its wings,” While he doesn’t have arms or legs, Vujicic has small feet (one swam, literally leaning over the edge into her lane as they cheered she said. “Which is saying ‘I’m still in progress. I’m about to grow is more prominent than the other) that allow him to walk short for her. As the other swimmers finished, hundreds of people who my wings.’” distances. He can also hop up stairs, kick a soccer ball and dive had gathered there from two counties all clapped and yelled for While Chrysa looks to the future, Vujicic has plans to keep shar- backwards into a swimming pool. His left foot is larger and has Chrysa. ing his story of overcoming obstacles with audiences around the two toes. He stands on a desk and uses his toes to type more than “It’s like this every time,” a woman said, nodding. “Every time.” world. 40-words-per-minute on his iMac. While he can also use a pen, After the race, Chrysa said the cheering crowd helps her stay “This world really needs hope,” he said in a recent interview. “I swim and even surf, there are some things he must rely on others focused on finishing: “It’s like, wow. I have all these people here to love people because there is power in loving people. The power of to do for him such as brushing his teeth, cooking and, of course, support me. It’s a really awesome feeling.” encouragement can save someone’s life.” driving a car. Back in her chair as the swim meet continued that night,

At home in southern California and during his travels, Vujicic several people stopped to talk with Chrysa, letting her know

26 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 What makes your life ‘ridiculously good?’

Editor’s Note: Lagniappe and Page and Palette teamed up for the “Ridiculously Good Life Essay Contest.” This contest is Part of Page and Palette’s 2nd Annual Bay Jubilee, which will be held on Fri- day, Nov. 14 at The Christian Life Center at 6 p.m. in Fairhope. This year’s speaker will be Nick Vujicic, who was born without arms or legs, but despite his disabilities, says he has had a “ridiculously good life.” So we asked people in our area to tell us what makes their life “ridiculously good.” The overall winner was Hannah Denham of Fairhope.

Overall Winner Hannah Denham of Fairhope, Alabama Age 16: Young Adult Category

First off, I’m not sure if any extension of myself can be defined as “ridiculous.” I’m not even clear about what constitutes “good.” But I can say that I have lived, and am living, and will continue to live, and maybe that is what I am searching to define. I’m bound to this planet that is hurling itself through the universe in a misshapen circle around this omnipotent ball of fire. Supposedly we’re traveling fast but because of this thing called gravity, it’s a process. About once or twice a month, this – my existence – hits me. It sinks like copy paper in air or something gradual in water. “I am alive,” I think. “I am living. And greater than just existing, I am self-aware.” The thing about self-awareness is that once it occurs to your brain that it is thinking, your heart that it is beating, your arms that they are reaching – there is no more room for going through the motions. No more room for routine. I have a whole life ahead of me. The best part is that life isn’t defined by time, but more so by impact, exchange, desire, interaction, hope. I have no control over how many years I have left to live ridiculously well. But I do have the motive and the means to achieve it.

Nick Vujicic, best-selling author of “Unstoppable” and the new book “Love Without Limits” will speak at the Christian Life Center at Fairhope United Meth- odist Church, 155 S. Section St., at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14 during the Bay of the Holy Spirit Jubilee author event, a fundraiser for the Good Life foundation. Tick- ets are available at www.itickets.com and through Page and Palette Bookstore in Fairhope.

Individual tickets are $25 and include admission to the feature event and one copy of “Love Without Limits.”

Couple tickets are available for $35 and include admission for two to the event, one copy of “Love Without Limits” and a $10 coupon to be used toward the purchase of an additional copy of “Love Without Limits.”

Family ticket packages may be purchased for $45 and include admission for two adults and two children (under 18), one copy of “Love Without Limits” and a $10 coupon that can be used to purchase an additional copy of Love Without Limits. (Tickets are $5 for each additional family member under age 18).

Email Karin Wilson at [email protected] for group rates.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 27 ARTIFICE | ART Annual pile up on the autumn autobahn BY KEVIN LEE/ARTS EDITOR | [email protected]

range is the color we associate with autumn. Pumpkins through all three weekends. It wasn’t just football either as there ing gatherings and travel plans, then the Christmas onslaught. and turning leaves are the most obvious causes but for were concerts and album premieres and plays all around the After that is Moonpie madness between New Year’s and Mardi Mobile cultural denizens, the complementary blues can bay. Gras. Next thing you know, spring is here again. be the norm. It was a shame as the rousing show – written by a Mobil- October and April have a reputation for motivating climes OIn the feast or famine world of Mobile arts we swing through ian, about our area and produced by locals – was the strongest here so as a result they’ve become the default spots for hap- drastic differences. All summer we abide through a sparse they’ve staged to date. Those absent lost most. penings. They are also vexing months that make you feel as if calendar. The opera is done, the symphony finishes, too. With you’re being pulled in a multitude of directions. the languid heat and humidity, it’s easy to see why things feel so I have to believe that in the last couple of centuries, or at sparse or even measured. least for the better part of one, we’ve seen what happens if we But as soon as October hits the calendar, the opposite takes In the feast or famine world of try to spread the cultural wealth out to other seasons. Or have hold. Suddenly there’s far too much to do and not nearly enough Mobile arts we swing through we? time. Would it be possible to move more events and opportunities It’s easy to understand as the change from summer’s op- drastic differences. All summer we to somewhere in our six months of summer and see if it can pression literally lifts the mood, the body’s vigorous reaction a help optimize things? One room in my house gets the best view combination of relief and surging biochemicals. We want to go, abide through a sparse calendar. The in the mornings but that doesn’t mean I have to move all the go, go and do, do, do. opera is done, the symphony finishes, furniture in there. But there’s just not enough time. Every group, every orga- It’s a great puzzle to have and I wish it were always so but nization it seems is grabbed by the same seasonal fervor and too. With the languid heat and humid- it’s not necessarily best for the long-term success of arts en- apparently compelled to ignore wisdom by bunching up the ity, it’s easy to see why things feel so deavors. We’re guilty of seeing our town through azalea-colored slate of possibilities. glasses and not realizing just how few slices of the attendance Prime example: I’ve heard lamentations from those involved sparse or even measured. pie exist here. If you frequent cultural events, you’ve become with South of the Salt Line’s latest offering “Ambushed by the used to the same few hundred faces you see at most of them and Tea Party” about the lackluster attendance over their three-week you know who will and will not show. run leading to Election Day. I was there on opening night, an Other events have shuffled. I heard Greek Fest used to be event dedicated to raising money to keep inclusion in the Joe Reasons are self-evident. The summer saps the energy from held in an earlier part of the year. Arts Alive was once in the fall Cain Parade open. you. The winter is wildly erratic with cold, then fog, then heat, and early May, now it’s one event in April. Let’s just try spread- Despite Mobilians’ oft-touted love of all thing Mardi Gras, then rain, then cold, then fog … and that’s just on Christmas ing some things around, spice it up. the house was half-empty. Understandable, considering Greek Day. This isn’t a complaint so much as a question on how to best Fest was going full blazes a few blocks over and besides it was While beautiful weather can be stimulus to get up and get marshal forces. We always need more – not less – but I would only a Thursday night. moving, al fresco engagement isn’t a necessity. Yet it’s the also like to know that attendance was being maximized to give Then come Friday night, high school football was the culprit. social calendar too, that makes cultural engagement tricky. these things a prime chance for survival and to enrich the life On Saturday, college football played that role. On it went As soon as Halloween passes, we’re dealing with Thanksgiv- experiences of us all.

he Fine and Performing Arts folks at Spring Hill College are combining forces with Government Street Presbyterian Church to bring their annual holiday concert: Music of the Holidays From the Valley to the Hill. The seasonal show has two performances. The first is Nov. 23, 4 p.m. at Government Street Presbyterian Church, 300 Government St. The second is planned for Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Chapel on the campus of Spring Hill College. TThis program features “The Greater Mobile Bay Area Choral Society” – an outreach community choir program of Government Street Pres- byterian Church and the Spring Hill College Chorale, an offering of the Fine and Performing Arts programming of Spring Hill College. The program will share a wide variety of familiar and non-traditional, both sacred and secular music and is under the direction of Terry D. Maddox. The concert is free and open to the public for both performances. For additional information, please contact Mr. Maddox at 251-434-9325 or [email protected].

Mobile professor’s quilts in campus show

Photo/Courtesy of the University of Mobile Professor of Chemistry Dr. Gail Shelly prefers to spend her time out of the lab with a needle and thread.

niversity of Mobile Professor of Chemistry Dr. Gail Shelly The variation is a constant challenge that keeps her sharp. unveils another side to her normally analytical persona when “Quilters use color and color value like any other artist – to define her quilting exhibit “From Designing to Binding” premieres form and create spatial illusions. I love to use both color and design at the school’s Marilyn Foley Art Gallery on campus. to create quilts that show dimensionality and movement,” she said. UAn instructor in general and organic chemistry at the school since “Dr. Gail Shelly’s quilts exceed the definition of craft; they are 2008, the Ph.D. from the University of California can trace her side- beautiful works of art,” Gallery Director and Associate Professor of line love to her childhood. Art Phillip Counselman said, “The works are highly designed with “I was a seamstress long before I became a scientist,” Shelly said exquisite colors. It is apparent that Dr. Shelly is a keen observer of in a press release. nature based on her organic designs. This exhibit is a great example Starting at age 10, her mother and grandmother taught her needle- of how art reveals science. The exhibit is cross-disciplinary, which work. Through observation and tutelage, she became an expert at makes it perfect for our campus experience.” embroidery. A true Southerner, family legacy is always at play. “My grandmother taught my mother how to piece quilt tops from “Using my hands to create stitched designs allows me to honor the fabric scraps of sewing projects,” Shelly said. “She also quilted the women in my family that worked with needle and thread and who with a group who worked together to sew the top, batting and back- took the time to show me how to continue a time-honored tradition,” ing at the same time in a ‘sandwich’ using decorative designs. They Shelly said. taught me the technique of hand quilting.” The exhibit runs through Dec. 5. Admission is free. The gallery She hasn’t left the lab behind, though. It comes through in her art. is open Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. in the “One of the areas of chemistry that has always fascinated me is Ben May building on campus. The art department will host an Artist how molecules interact with light to produce colors,” Shelly said. Talk, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. in Weaver Hall Auditorium. “As a quilter, fabric is my medium – it is far less messy than mixing For more about this or other exhibits at the University of Mobile, chemicals together, although that can be quite satisfying too.” visit umobile.edu or call Phillip Counselman at 251-442-2283.

30 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 31 AREA MUSIC LISTINGS NOvEMbER 13 - NOvEMbER 19

Newbury Syndicate CD Release Party, IP Casino— The Charlie Daniels Veets— Veet, Tim Kinsey & Jeff Fidler, THURS. NOV 13 8:30p/// Smokin’ Elvis’, 10:30p Band, 8p 8p BLUEGILL— Mat Neese, 6p Garage— Fat Man Squeeze, 9p Live Bait— DJ Nick, 8p Blues Tavern— Johnny Barbato & Hard Rock (Live)— Primus & The Lulu’s— Frank Brown International The Lucky Dogs, 8:30p MON. NOV 17 Chocolate Factory, 7p Songwriters Festival// Benita Hill, Felix’s— Bryant Gilley Callaghan’s— Bobby Butchka Laps— Cornbred Duo and Dale Becky Hobbs & Kacey Jones, 5p/// BMI Flora Bama— Good Ole Freda, Celtic Irish Pub— Joey Culver Drinkard Showcase, 6p//// Kevin Denney, Dave 12p// Elaine Petty, 9p Dahlia’s Electric Piano Hall— Legacy— Jon Maddox, 6p// The Gibson & Rutsy Tabor, 7p//// Larry Lucky’s Irish Pub— Marcus, 8p Scott Morlock, Gene Murrell & David Modern El Dorados, 9p Cordle, Carl Jackson & Jerry Salley, 8p Lulu’s— Brent Burns, 5p White Live Bait— DJ Nick, 8p Moe’s BBQ (Daphne)— Lee Old 27 Grill— Local Musicians Felix’s— Jeri Lulu’s— Frank Brown International Yankie, 7p Dinner, 7p Flora Bama— Frank Brown Songwriters Festival// Camille Wallin & Pirates Cove— Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival, 6p// Chris Wallin, 5p// Neil Dover & Matt International Songwriters Festival// Smokin’ Elvis, 10p TUE. NOV 18 Hoggatt, 6p/// Victoria Banks, Melissa Matt Nolan, Matt Warren; 1p/// Doug BLUEGILL— Eric Erdman, 6p Legacy— Jimmy Lumpkin Brokop & Mary Sue Englund, 7p//// The Gill, Lynn Langham, Jonmark Stone, Butch Cassidy’s— Andy Lulu’s— CoConut Radio, 5p Darlins, Jaron Boyer & Michael Tyler, 8p 2p//// Victoria Banks, Lisa Brokop, Mary MacDonald Moe’s BBQ (Daphne)— Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Brent Sue Englund, 3p//// Marc-Alan Barnette, Cockeyed Charlie’s— Matt Neese Yellowhammer Productions, 8p Byrd, 6:30p Greg Crowe, Jimbeau Hinson; 4p//// & Josh Ewing Old 27 Grill— Tree Lighting, 6:30p Moe’s BBQ (Daphne)— Cat and Neil Dover, Jeffrey East; 5p//// Sandra Felix’s— Bobby Butchka Tacky Jacks (Orange Beach) — the Truth, 8p Youngblood & Steven Youngblood, 6p Flora Bama— Perdido Brothers,

AREA MUSIC LISTINGS | Frank Brown International Songwriters Old 27 Grill— Sugarcane Jane, 6:30p Tropics— The Groove, 7p 5p// Elaine Petty, 9p Festival Tacky Jacks (Gulf Shores) — Soul Kitchen— Glowrage, 9p Lulu’s— Joey Arata, 5p Veets— Bennie & Katrina Austin, 8p Frank Brown International Songwriters Veets— 80’s Night, Sucker Punch, 9p Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Ben Festival Jernigan, 7p FRI. NOV 14 Tacky Jacks (Orange Beach) — R-Life Live— David Chastang Bill’s by the Beach— Barstool SUN. NOV 16 Frank Brown International Songwriters BLUEGILL— Kyle & Karl ft. Phil & Soul Kitchen— Sevendust, 7p Surfers, 6p Festival Stan, 6p Veets— Grant Dunaway, 7p Blues Tavern— Ric McNaughton Tropics— Unseen Evidence, 8p Blues Tavern— Art & Lou, 5p Band,9p Veets— The Family Jewels, 9p Callaghan’s— Johnny Sansone Callaghan’s— Julie Anne Sellers WED. NOV 19 Windmill Market— Harrison Felix’s— Jimmy Lumpkin BLUEGILL— Ross +1, 6p Celtic Irish Pub— Gerard Raley + McInnis, 6p Flora Bama— Hank Cochran Blues Tavern— Johnny Barbato, 8p Guests Tribute- Dean Dillon, Scotty Emerick, Bucky’s Birdcage (Grand Cockeyed Charlie’s— Last Call Buddy Cannon, Jamey Johnson, 6p Hotel)— Adam Holt Piano Show, 8p Rodeo SAT. NOV 15 BLUEGILL— Les Hall & Friends, 6p Laps— Ross Newell Callaghan’s— Deluxe Trio Dahlia’s Electric Piano Hall— Blues Tavern— John Bull Blues Lulu’s— Frank Brown International Celtic Irish Pub— Mike Scott Morlock, Tony Edwards & David Band, 9p Songwriters Festival// Max T Barnes, Cockeyed Charlie’s— Sammy Sixx White Felix’s— Blind Dog Mike 5p/// Matt Nolan & Matt Warren, 6p//// Felix’s— Sugar Cane Jane Fairhope Brewery— Rondale and Finns (Dauphin Island) — Eric Bryan Edwards, 7p//// Lee Yankie, 8p Flora Bama— Neil Dover, 3p// Kit Kats, 7p Erdman and Harrison McInnis Tacky Jacks (Gulf Shores) — Smokin’ Elvis’, 6p/// Logan Spicer, 10p Felix’s— Grits N Pieces Flora Bama— Under Great Lights, Frank Brown International Songwriters Garage— Viridian Sons, 8p Finns (Dauphin Island) — DJ 8:30p Festival Legacy— Lee Yankie William Golden Nugget— Brenda Lee, 8p Tacky Jacks (Orange Beach) — Lulu’s— Jon Cook, 5p Flora Bama— Frank Brown Industry Bar— Bordello Rhythm, Frank Brown International Songwriters R-Life Live— Grant Dunaway International Songwriters Festival, 6p// 8:30p Festival Veets— Grits N’ Pieces, 7p

SEND yOUR MUSIC LISTINGS TO [email protected]

32 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 AREA CLUb LISTINGS [DOWNTOWN] 9 N Jackson St. 285-4596 Ravenite Pizzeria [Fairhope] 251-967-LULU Trader’s Serda’s Coffee Company 102 N. Section St. | 929-2525 Pink Pony Pub [Gulf Shores] 4015 Battleship Pkwy Alchemy Tavern www.serdas.com Rosie’s Grill and Record Bar www.pinkponypub.net 626-5630 alchemy.joltpro.com 3 S. Royal St. | 415-3000 [Daphne] 137 East Gulf Pl. | 978-6371 The River Shack 7 S. Joachin St. | 441-7741 Skyview Lounge www.rosiesgrill.com Pirate’s Cove [Elberta] 6120 Marina Dr. S. The Blind Mule Atop the Lafayette Plaza 1203 U.S. 98|626-2440 www.piratescoveriffraff.com (under Dog River bridge) 57 N. Claiborne St. | 694-6853 301 Gov’t St.| 694-0100 Windmill Market [Fairhope] 6600 County Rd. 95| 987-1224 443-7318 Boo Radley’s Soul Kitchen www.windmillmarket.org Tacky Jacks www.booradleysmobile.com Tin Top www.soulkitchenmobile.com 85 N. Bancroft St. | 517-5444 www.tackyjacks.com 276 Dauphin St. | 432-1996 6232 Bon Secour Hwy. County 219 Dauphin St. |433-5958 [Orange Beach] The Bar Rd. 10 | 251-949-5086 Spot of Tea’s Jaggers [WESTMObILE] 27206 Safe Harbor Dr, |981-4144 352 St. Francis St. | 648-1596 Touch Down Tavern 310 Dauphin St. | 375-6772 All Sports Bar & Grill [Gulf Shores] The Brickyard 5460 Inn Rd | 662-7543 Studio 5’4 3408 Pleasant Valley Rd. 249 E. 24th Ave.| 948-8881 266 Dauphin St. | 473-4739 VFW Post 7320 [Saraland] 216 Dauphin St. | 725-0406 345-9338 [Gulf Shores] Buck’s Pizza 244 Old Telegraph Rd. |679-1188

T.P. Crockmiers Billiards Club 1577 Alabama 180|968-8341 LISTINGS | MUSIC www.buckspizza.com Whiskey Blues [Theodore] 250 Dauphin St. | 476-1890 4130 Gov’t Blvd.|447-2132 The Handlebar [Pensacola] 350 Dauphin St. | 431-9444 5791 Swedetown Rd.|633-1769 Veet’s Midnight Rodeo www.handlebarpensacola.com Cabo Cantina Zebra Lounge www.veetsbarandgrill.com 7790 Tanner Rd., Ste. B|639-2222 319 N. Tarragona St.| 434-9060 225 Dauphin St. | 441-7685 2343 Dauphin Island Pkwy. 66 S. Royal St.| 694-3090 Cockeyed Charlies The Wharf [Orange Beach] Callaghan’s Irish Social Club 6920 Airport Blvd.|725-1112 4985 Wharf Pkwy.| 224-1000 473-2997 www.callaghansirishsocialclub.com [MIDTOWN] Crooked Martini 916 Charleston St. | 433-9374

Ashland Midtown Pub www.thecrookedmartini.com [AROUND AND AbOUT] [CASINOS] AREA CLU b Dalhia’s Electric Piano Hall www.ashlandmidtownpub.com 7639 Cottage Hill Rd. #C |633-5555 Bill and Charlie’s [Theodore] Beau Rivage [Biloxi] 258 Dauphin St. | 378-5025 2453 Old Shell Rd.| 479-3278 Flashback Club 11470-B Bellingrath Rd.|973-0388 www.beaurivage.com Dauphin St. Blues Company Blues Tavern 10071 Airport Blvd.| 634-2239 Blue Gill Restaurant 878 Beach Blvd.|228-386-7111 & Draft Picks www.bluestavern.com Jag’s Sports Bar & Grill www.bluegillrestaurant.com or 888-595-2534 564 Dauphin St. | 725-6429 2818 Gov’t Blvd. |479-7621 5602 Old Shell Rd.| 725-1102 3775 Battleship Pkwy. |625-1998 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Firehouse Wine Bar Shop Butch Cassidy’s Cafe Lucky Irish Pub & Grill Bottoms Up [Biloxi] 216 St. Francis St. | 421-2022 www.butchcassidys.com 3692 Airport Blvd.| 414-3000 2605 Halls Mill Rd. | 287-7781 www.hardrockbiloxi.com Gabriel’s Downtown 60 N. Florida St. |450-0690 Mellow Mushroom Briar Patch 777 Beach Blvd. 55 S. Joachim St. | 432-4900 Kimberly’s Midtown Bar www.mellowmushroom.com 9371 Dauphin Island Pkwy. |228-374-ROCK (7625) The Garage 2660 Old Shell Rd. |478-1477 5660 Old Shell Rd. | 380-1500 973-1120 Harrah’s Hotel & Casino 9 S. Washington Ave. | 433-2223 Mellow Mushroom Moe’s Southwest Grill Burnout’s Bar & Grill [Saraland] [New Orleans] Grand Central www.mellowmushroom.com www.moes.com 7151 Hwy 158 W | 679-9255 www.harrahsneworleans.com grandcentralmobile.com 2032 Airport Blvd. |471-4700 280 McGregor Ave. S.| 342- 5233 Celtic Irish Pub [Pascagoula] 256 Dauphin St. | 432-6999 228 Poydras St.|504-533-6000 Royal Knight Restaurant Royal Knight 4901 Chicot St. | 228-938-6800 Hayley’s Downtown Grand Casino [Biloxi] 3004 Gov’t Blvd. |287-1220 3004 Gov’t Blvd.| 476-6044 Ed’s Seafood Shed 278 Dauphin St. | 433-4970 www.grandcasinobiloxi.com Silver Horse Pub Patches www.edsshed.com Joe Cain Café 280 Beach Blvd. 151 S. Florida St. |478-7030 5100 Girby Rd.| 661-8028 3382 Battleship Pkwy. | 625-1947 26 N. Royal St. | 338-2000 228-436-2946 Whistle Stop Bar & Grill Satori Coffee House Felix’s Fish Camp Liquid IP Casino Resort & Spa 110 S. Florida St.|478-7427 www.satori-coffee.com www.felixsfishcamp.com 661 Dauphin St. | 432-0109 [Biloxi] 5460 Old Shell Rd. | 344-4575 1530 Battleship Pkwy. |626-6710 Loda Bier Garten www.ipbiloxi.com [EASTERN SHORE] Runway Billards Midnight Rodeo 251 Dauphin St. | 287-6871 850 Bayview Ave. Bay House Pub [Daphne] 8000 Airport Blvd. | 634-8006 7790 Tanner Rd. |639-2222 Mobile Civic Center 800-436-3000 28850 Bayline Dr. | 626-0158 The Hungry Owl Mississippi Coast Coliseum www.mobilecivicctr.com Wind Creek Casino Club 44 [Daphne] 7899 Cottage Hill | 633-4479 [Biloxi] 401 Civic Center Dr. | 208-7261 www.windcreekcasino.com 28850 US 98, #100 | 445-8069 Stir Mobile www.mscoastcoliseum.com O’Daly’s Irish Pub 303 Poarch Rd., Atmore Gumbo Shack 5821 Old Shell Rd., Ste. D | 342-9995 2350 Beach Blvd. |228-594-3700 564 Dauphin St.|725-6429 866-946-3360 www.guysgumbo.com VFW Post 49 The End Zone Sports Bar OK Bicycle Shop 212 Fairhope Ave. | 928-4100 2528 Govt Blvd. | 471-9438 [Mt. Vernon] 19170 Hwy 43. 661 Dauphin St. |432-2453 McSharry’s [Fairhope] 829-9227The Oar House [NEW ORLEANS] Pat’s Downtown Grill www.mcsharrys.com [THE bEACH] [Dauphin Island] House of Blues 271 Dauphin St. | 438-9585 101N Brancroft St. |990-5100 Flora-Bama 1504 Bienville Blvd.| 861-4800 www.houseofblues.com Riverview Plaza (Fathoms Moe’s Original BBQ [Daphne] www.florabama.com Original Oyster House 225 Decatur St . Lounge) www.moesoriginalbbq.com 17401 Perdido Key Dr., www.theoysterhouse.com |504-310-4999 64 S. Water St.| 438-4000 6423 Bayfront Pk Dr.|625-7427 850-492-0611 3733 Battleship Pkwy. |626-2188 Howlin’ Wolf Royal Scam Old 27 Grill [Fairhope] The Hangout Pelican Pub & Restaurant www.thehowlinwolf.com/new- www.royalscammobile.com 19992 Hwy 181 | 281-2663 www.thehangoutal.com [Dauphin Island] orleans 72 S. Royal St.|432-SCAM (7226) Papa’s Pizza [Daphne] 101 Gulf Ct. | 948-3030 1102 DeSoto Ave.| 861-7180 907 S. Peters St. Royal Street Tavern www.papaspizza.com Live Bait Pelican Reef Restaurant 504-522-WOLF (9653) 26 N. Royal St. | 338-2000 28850 US Hwy 98| 626-7662 www.livebaitrestaurant.com 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Louisiana Superdome Saenger Theatre 24281 Perdido Beach Blvd. Plow [Fairhope] | 973-2670 www.superdome.com www.mobilesaenger.com 974-1612 96 Plantation Pointe| 410-7569 Tacky Jacks [Spanish Fort] 1500 Poydras St. |504-587-366 6 S. Joachim St. |208-5600 Lulu’s at Homeport Marina Courtyard 311 www.tackyjacks.com Tipitina’s Saddle Up Saloon www.lulubuffett.com 311 Fairhope Ave. | 928-2032 1175 Battleship Pkwy. |621-8988 501 Napoleon Ave. www.saddleupmobile.com 200 E. 25th Ave. 504-895-TIPS (8477) LAGNIAPPE | August 21, 2014 - August 27, 2014 | 33 FEATURE | MUSIC Deluxe Trio transforms from house band to recording act BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

Band: Deluxe Trio Date: Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. Venue: Callaghan’s Irish Social Club, 219 Charleston St., www.callaghansirishocialclub.com Tickets: Free

Photo/The Deluxe Trio/Facebook Phil Proctor, Stan Foster and Steve barnes of The Deluxe Trio are scheduled to release their debut album “Nobody Don’t Know” Dec. 1.

hether by classified ads or word of mouth, bands are “a new slant” on both their originals and the obscure covers that nature and turns it into a slow, emotional ballad laced with beauti- formed in various ways. However, sometimes fate they perform. Additionally, the Deluxe Trio has never had an of- ful harmonies. From the beginning, the live vibe of the album was has its own plans in the music world. Sometimes, ficial rehearsal. Their performances are based totally on spontane- a priority, and the recording session went quick with the first night musicians naturally unite, and the result is a band ity and their mental repertoire of classic songs rooted in the early resulting in eight tracks recorded. thatW cannot deny its aural coagulation. Deluxe Trio’s formation 20th century. “Rick asked us things like if we wanted him to isolate us,” Var- could be considered one of those magical situations. “We have never rehearsed this band,” Varnes said. “We just nes said. “We said that we really didn’t want it. We play as a band, Consisting of local music scene notables Steve “Duck” Varnes bring it in and see if it gets legs. We even did that on ‘Radio and we want the recording as a band. So, he had us in the room. (guitar), Phil Proctor (mandolin) and Stan Foster (bass), Deluxe Avalon.’ We went into the studio and did things that we do all the We were in a triangular shape where we can see each other, and Trio’s origins began at Mellow Mushroom. Also known for his time. At the end of the night, we had time for one more. I had just we just played it all. There are no punch-ins. If you hear a little work with The Lizards, Varnes was performing weekly at the piz- shown Phil the progression for a Tom Waits song ‘In the Neigh- gaffing, we left them in there, because those are things that you’ll zeria and was looking for more musicians to join him. At the time, borhood.’ He said right there on the radio, ‘Let’s do that one.’ So, hear at a show.” Varnes was performing with Donnie Skidmore, who suggested we did.” “I think that’s what we all wanted to do or give it a shot that they contact Foster, who is known for his work with Southeast Now, Deluxe Trio is taking their group to the next level with way,” Proctor added. “We played live and worked out the vocal bluegrass icons Rollin’ in the Hay. the Dec. 1 release of their debut album “Nobody Don’t Know,” parts and instrumentation, so we could go in there and not be like “He (Skidmore) said, ‘We can get Stan. He’s available, and which is taken from a French colloquialism found in the original an unrehearsed band. Since we were rehearsed, it only seemed he’ll play for peanuts,’” Varnes recalled. “We didn’t get enough to track “The River.” Wet Willie’s Rick Hirsch volunteered to be natural to go in there and hash it out like that, so there can be some share. So, Stan came out, and we hit it off in every way.” their guide for the album and brought the group into his H2O spontaneity.” Eventually, Skidmore experienced health problems and had to Studio. “Nobody Don’t Know” also includes some excellent original depart from the trio. Proctor, a regular performer at venues across While Varnes, Foster and Proctor provide the music focus of work from Deluxe Trio. Varnes included his trademark song “The the Azalea City and beyond, was the natural replacement. Varnes the album, they also brought in Donna Hall (Wet Willie) for back- King of Marvin Gardens,” a track mingling blues and bluegrass el- was already acquainted with Proctor through weekly jam sessions ing vocals on the tracks “Dark Holler” and “How Can A Poor Man ements with a whole lot of soul. The groove is enhanced by verse held at West Mobile Music, but Foster journeyed to Pascagoula Stand Such Times.” John Anthony (Wet Willie) played accordion after verse of memorable lyrics. to check out Proctor’s expert skills on the strings. When Proctor on “No More Excuses,” and Sean Worrell lent his accordion skills Proctor also includes his rollicking bluegrass song “Fire Into recognized Foster, he insisted that he join him on stage to perform. on “The River.” With a résumé boasting Dolly Parton, Eric Bur- the Frying Pan,” which features the songwriter on lead vocals with “From that second on, I said, ‘I’ve been over on Wednesdays don and Waylon Jennings, keyboardist Red Young journeyed from Foster and Varnes backing him up. The foot-stomper was inspired playing with Steve Varnes a lot,’” Foster explained. “Rollin’ in Austin to add his touch to the track “Mockingbird Waltz.” by an incident between Proctor and his then fiancée (now wife). the Hay is only playing Thursday, Friday and Saturday now. I felt Many bands have one goal when they enter the studio. They “We’ve been married over 20 years, so the incident didn’t ruin like I was semi-retired. I needed something to do during the week. wish to capture the magical vibes that only a live performance things, but it’s a comical take on a dinner date gone wrong,” Proc- From the time the three of us played, we were like, ‘This is it!’” can produce, and on their first album, the Deluxe Trio more than tor said. “It’s total artistic fulfillment,” Proctor added. “It’s been great. accomplished it. The clarity of each track synthesizes the intimate As far as the future of Deluxe Trio, a music video for one of It’s nice, because I get to do whatever I want to and play with environment of Callaghan’s Irish Social Club on a Wednesday their tracks is in the works and will be created by Academy Award these guys.” evening. The band enhances the live aspect of the listening experi- winning special effects artist Anthony LaMolinara. The band also In a time when Americana has been molded and shaped by ence by including many of the obscure covers included in their set, plans to play local festivals and they have hopes of making the trip modern influences, Deluxe Trio has decided to focus on the purity such as Blind Alfred Reed’s 1920s classic “How Can A Poor Man to Austin for a showcase. In the meantime, locals will continue to of the genre with minimal acoustic instrumentation and old school Stand Such Times.” enjoy Deluxe Trio at their weekly performance at Callaghan’s. sensibilities. However, they make a point to put what Foster calls Deluxe Trio takes a track that is characterized by its upbeat

34 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 RUNDOWN | MUSIC Christmas gifts from Graceland and Haight-Ashbury BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

s Thanksgiving approaches, Mo- bile is preparing locally for the holidayA season. Depending on the timing Mardi Gras (or Easter), it’s a season that may last up to four months. Many are already making preparations for the holiday season by doing a little early Christ- mas shopping. Fans of Elvis Presley are some of the most zealous, and Christmas 2014 will feature a gift for that any Photos/(above) ledgendshomebedding.com, (right) amazon.com Elvis junkie would love. Now is the perfect time to think about holiday gifts for the music fan in your life. Everyone knows that the best Elvis memorabilia is decades on the road until the death of vocalist/guitarist Jerry Gar- the most unique. Legends Home Bedding is giving Elvis fans a cia in 1995. Even though the band stopped touring years ago, the chance to sleep with The King himself with their Elvis Presley Deadhead scene is still alive and well today. A new book will hit bed sets and pillow shams. The “Elvis Presley Guitars” design has the shelves Jan. 20 that promises to give fans a deeper look into Presley rocking out to a “warm-neutral” background. “Dancing this legendary band. Elvis” features Presley in his youthful prime set to burgundy. The Peter Richardson’s “No Simple Highway: A Cultural His- “Burning Love” pillow sham set has Presley’s image emblazoned tory of the Grateful Dead” attempts to solve the riddle of how against a deep red heart, and the “Always on My Mind” sham set the band managed to collect a loyal fan base and sell millions of allow Elvis fans to experience a seductive look each time they records without ever having a top 10 hit. Richardson’s explanation enter the bedroom. The sets are available at Sears, Wal-Mart, Bed, involves what has been called “three powerful utopian ideals” that Bath & Beyond and Legends Home Bedding’s website. “struck deep chords” with generation upon generation. The ideals include a commitment to ecstasy, mobility and community. Deadhead read The author crawled through interviews and conducted exten- While on the subject of ravenous fans, Deadheads rank up sive research on his subject matter to provide a definitive history there with disciples of The King. The colorful collage of music on The Grateful Dead with a fresh conceptual viewpoint. “No lovers set a standard for fandom and tour road trips with their Simple Highway: A Cultural History of the Grateful Dead” prom- dedication to The Grateful Dead. The West Coast jam outfit spent ises to be a must-have for any Deadhead.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 35 Sevendust returns with new unplugged tracks BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected] Band: Sevendust featuring A.Z. Date: Tuesday, Nov. 18, 7 p.m. Venue: Soul Kitchen, 219 Dauphin St., www.soulkitchenmobile.com Tickets: $20 advance/$25 day-of-show at Soul Kitchen, Mel- low Mushroom (WeMo/MiMo) or by calling 1-866-468-7630 evendust changed perceptions on Southern music from the first riff of their 1998 break- out hit “Black.” The Atlanta-based metal act exploded onto the world scene with songs that mixed a vehement sound with thought-provoking lyrics. In the years since, Seven- dust has maintained a dedicated following in the Azalea City and beyond. SWhen Sevendust last performed in Mobile, they rocked the crowd at BayFest with cuts from their 2013 release “Black Out the Sun.” The group has wasted no time in giving their fans another collection of songs. A year after “Black Out the Sun,” Sevendust released “Time Travelers & Bonfires.” Loaded with acoustic tracks, the newest album gives the masses a view of Sevendust that has not been seen since 2004. However, Sevendust fans unfamiliar with their acoustic work should not shy from it. The band is able to riddle these acoustic sounds with the rock intensity for which they are known. Sevendust is bringing the crowd another shot of Southern metal in the form of A.Z. This five- piece hail from the little town of Arab, Alabama, but their sound is huge. A.Z. will be introducing itself to the locals with melodic metal cuts from their current album “Sweating Bullets” and their Photo/www.sevendust.com| Sevendust upcoming album “Brutally Beautiful.”

Go steady with boyfriend and guests Primus bringing Willy Wonka’s pure

Band: Boyfriend, Mad Wikkid, Mr. 88 imagination to life Date: Friday, Nov. 14, 9 p.m. Venue: Alchemy Tavern, 7 S. Joachim St., www.alchemytavern- Band: An Evening with Primus & the Chocolate Factory mobile.com Date: Friday, Nov. 14, 6 p.m. Tickets: $8 at the door Venue: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 777 Beach Blvd., www. hardrockbiloxi.com ip-hop is a music genre that has been taken in a plethora of directions by a vast array of Tickets: $19.99-$39.99 through Ticketmaster people. This show will epitomize some of the more unique directions that hip-hop has been taken with a little avant-garde electronic thrown in for variety. rimus has proven itself to be on of the most prolific and enigmatic bands in modern As one of NOLA’s most notorious hip-hop acts, Boyfriend has slid out of the dark music. Their sonic concoction of chaotic syncopation and Les Claypool’s godlike work Hstreets of the Crescent City and into the public eye. This sultry verbal assassin arms herself with on the bass guitar still finds new fans with each passing generation. Primus has given female-empowered lyrics matched by a vicious delivery reminiscent of White Girl Mob. Boyfriend the world characters such as “John the Fisherman,” “Sgt. Baker” and “Tommy the Cat.” will showcase cuts from her “Love Your Boyfriend” EP, and she is guaranteed to set the Alchemy PThe locals last got their Primus fix at Hangout Fest 2011. However, the band’s new tour promises crowd ablaze with fresh rhymes. to be one of the most memorable performances from Primus ever seen. Madd Wikkid will also be in town from the Big Easy. As one listens to the DJ’s mix and mashes, The original Primus lineup will be joined by The Fungi Ensemble for an evening that will fea- a clear definition of NOLA electronic is formed. His cuts are heavily influenced by a variety of jazz ture crowd favorites and another sugary surprise. Primus will turn the venue into Willy Wonka’s sounds that are able to enhance any mood imaginable. factory, and the band will perform songs from the film “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” North Carolina’s Mr. 88 will complete the trifecta. The hip-hop artist has been establishing his reputa- The show will also include Primus chocolate bars for purchase and some of the most psychotic tion across the South and beyond with an impeccable flow that weaves itself in and out of the beat. looking Oompa Loompas ever seen.

Photo/www.iheartnola.com| Boyfriend Photo/Primusville/Facebook| Primus

t would be so easy to hate “Palo Alto.” Like the HBO show “Girls,” seemingly everyone involved got a leg up because of their parentage. Directed by Gia Coppola, granddaughter of Francis Ford, the Ilineage of the cast also wreaks of nepotism. However, in all the many factors you might employ to evalu- ate an artistic work, fairness, we must admit, doesn’t actually come into play. AREA So yes, it was directed by yet another impos- THEATERS sibly cool Coppola, and is based on a book of short stories by handsome but irksome multi-hyphenate James Franco and stars him and Emma Roberts, Julia Roberts’ niece and Jack Kilmer, son of Val Kilmer. So MObILE maybe not everyone involved, or anyone involved, exactly pulled themselves up by their bootstraps, but COUNTy what do we expect these people to do, not use their connections so I don’t get annoyed? CARMIKE So while I’m willing to forgive them for their CINEMA’S connections, a less derivative attempt from Coppola Wynnsong 16 might have been in order. The music, the tone and the subject matter is so straightforwardly descended 785 Schillinger Rd. S. from Sofia Coppola’s increasingly same work that it’s (251) 639-7373 absurd. Apparently, this is the world that these women know, but it’s hard to remain impressed by their art- CRESCENT fully dispassionate look into these sunny yet depress- THEATER ing inner sanctums. I know plenty of filmmakers tend Photo/imdb.com | “Palo Alto” to make the same movie over and over again, but when 208 Dauphin Street you’re making the movie of another famous relative, I Julia Roberts’ niece and val Kilmer’s son will not surprise you in the directorial feature (251) 438-2005 would think you’d feel silly. film debut of Gia Coppola, niece of Sophia, granddaughter of Francis Ford. The film is about chain smoking, partying, yet HOLLyWOOD expressionless teenagers in California, and their various the film, even when it’s clear that nothing much is going Chris Messina, and the most salient thing that the film STADIUM 18 misadventures as they try to grow up and interact with to happen to them. shows is how the arrested development of the adults in 1250 Satchel Paige Dr. the equally clueless and irresponsible adults in their Also lighting things up is Nat Wolff as the most charge of these kids leaves them no chance to grow up (251) 473-9655 lives. As the two most sensitive people around, Emma animated person in the film, bad boy best friend to Jack without problems. Of course, this movie is too cool to Roberts and Jack Kilmer are actually compelling, even Kilmer’s character. It is interesting to watch a scene with judge them for that. But I’m not! as they retread familiar territory and meander through his ridiculous and totally inappropriate father, played by “Palo Alto” is currently available to rent. bALDWIN

the Deepwater Horizon oil spill di- COUNTy NEW IN THEATERS saster and its aftermath. The film will NOW PLAyING make its Gulf Coast premier Thurs- RAvE MOTION day, Nov. 20, at the Saenger, 6 S. “BIG HERO 6” TERRIBlE, HORRIBlE, NO PICTURE Joachim St. Doors open at 6 p.m. for All listed multiplex theaters JUbILEE a 7 p.m. screening, which will be fol- GOOD, VERy BAD DAy” lowed by a Q&A session with Brown “INTERSTEllER” All Listed multiplex theaters SqUARE 12 and special guests. Tickets are $15 All listed multiplex theaters “DRACUlA UNTOlD” 6898 U.S. 90 Daphne, Al and are available via Ticketmaster All listed multiplex theaters “BEFORE I GO TO SlEEp” (251) 626- 6266 and at the Saenger box office, which All listed multiplex theaters is open 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays. “THE JUDGE” “NIGHTCRAWlER” Regal Mobile Stadium CARMIKE “BEyOND THE lIGHTS” All listed multiplex theaters 18,Carmike Jubilee Square Gugu Mbatha-Raw (“Belle”) stars as “ST VINCENT” 12, Cobb Pinnacle 14, Car- CINEMAS Noni, a music superstar for whom 23151 Wharf Ln. All listed multiplex theaters mike Wharf 15 the pressures of fame prove too Orange beach, Al much, until she falls for a young cop “ADDICTED” “GONE GIRl” (251) 981-4444 assigned to her security detail. Regal All listed multiplex theaters Photo/imdb.com Regal Mobile Stadium 18, Mobile Stadium 18 Carmike Wynnsong 16 “ANNABEllE” CObb “BIRDMAN” “DUMB AND DUMBER TO” “JOHN WICk” All listed multiplex theaters THEATRES A washed up actor (Michael Keaton) With stars Jim Carrey and Jeff Dan- All listed multiplex theaters “THE BOxTROllS” PINNACLE 14 whose most famous role was a iels returning under the original film’s “OUIJA” Regal Mobile Stadium 18 3780 Gulf Shores Pkwy superhero, makes a bid for glory directors, Peter and Bobby Farrelly, Gulf Shores, Al on Broadway. Directed by Alejan- All listed multiplex theaters “THE EqUAlIzER” this sequel is a no-brainer. Regal Regal Mobile Stadium 18, (251) 968-7444 dro González Iñárritu (“21 Grams”) Mobile Stadium 18, Carmike Jubilee “THE BOOk OF lIFE” this black comedy has earned rave Square 2, Eastern Shore Premier Cin- All listed multiplex theaters Carmike Wynnsong 16, reviews and Oscar buzz for Keaton. ema 12, Cobb Pinnacle 14 “FURy” Carmike Jubilee Square 12, EASTERN Crescent Theater All listed multiplex theaters Cobb Pinnacle 14, Carmike SHORE “ON ANy SUNDAy: THE NExT CHApTER” Wharf 15 PREMIERE “THE GREAT INVISIBlE” Motorcycle documentary from Dana “THE BEST OF ME” Documentary filmmaker Margaret Brown, son of Bruce Brown, who All listed multiplex theaters “THE MAzE RUNNER” CINEMA 14 Brown, who brilliantly dissected the directed the groundbreaking original “AlExANDER AND THE All listed multiplex theaters 30500 Alabama racial aspects of Mobile’s Mardi Gras film four decades ago, as well as the 181 #500 in her film “The Order of Myths” ex- surf classic, “The Endless Summer.” Spanish Fort, Al amines another phenomenon all too Carmike Wharf 15 Information accurate at press time; please call theaters for showtimes. (251) 626-0352 close to our collective local hearts,

t looks like in the wake of House Speaker Mike Hubbard’s who now has the ability to project his opinions and ideas across ing than some of the other news organizations, but to the Press 23-count indictment efforts to block unfavorable press from the Worldwide Web – The Legal Schnauzer is a fine example Association, we should still be lumped in with church fliers. access to the state’s legislature have stepped up. – government should understand that the licensing or vetting It’s understandable why Britt should be concerned about being Bill Britt of the Alabama Political Reporter – an online of news media flies in the face of the constitution and the very locked out. This state has a history of doing just that. Hopefully Ipublication covering, as its name would suggest, Alabama founding of this country. As Britt points out in his article, many the people running the state legislature can realize times have Politics — is claiming efforts are being made by the Republican of the most revered rabble-rousers as this country fought for changed and do away with legislation and actions that hinder the Caucus running the legislature to block journalistic endeavors independence might have been the very types who blog today. effectiveness and growth of those who would provide informa- such as his from having access to press boxes in the Alabama But Alabama has been doing this type of thing for some time. tion to the citizens. House and Senate. Bloggers and online publications are not the only ones discrimi- “Since 2013, certain members of the Republican controlled nated against in our fair state. Free publications like this one Shaking it up at al.com House and Senate have tried to limit press access to only a have also been relegated to the journalistic back seat essentially There were some beat changes at the Press-Register/al.com chosen few. It is not because there are hundreds of journalists because someone decided subscription-based newspapers are last week. (I’m still trying to figure out what they prefer to be trying to huddle into the boxes that line the back of the House somehow more legitimate. called.) and Senate chambers. No. It is because they do not want anyone While this hasn’t gotten us locked out of coverage, it has been Insiders tell me some reporters were moved to cover new ar- reporting the whole truth about what occurs, not only on the used to hinder Lagniappe’s growth. Specifically I’m talking about eas for the company. John Sharp, who had been covering Mobile floor of these institutions, but what goes on behind the scenes,” blocking the ability of a free newspaper to take legal advertising. City Hall was moved to Baldwin County coverage and replaced Britt wrote recently. “More specifically, some in the Republican Somewhere along the way media moguls across the land came in Government Plaza by Kelli Dugan. supermajority, controlled by Speaker Mike Hubbard and Senate up with a law that exists in many states, requiring any publication Michael Dumas is now a general assignment reporter and President Pro Tem Del Marsh, have worked overtly and covertly that runs legal ads — public notices and other ads required to be will also be writing “Mike About Town” posts. Thyrie Bland has to destroy the Alabama Political Reporter and its ability to report publicly posted — to have a Second Class Postal Permit. That been moved to court coverage. No word on whether that affected the facts about their crimes and misdealings.” permit is now called Publications Class, but its restrictions are Brendan Kirby, who has covered courts for some time. Britt claims he has been told in private by both members of still the same. Designed to allow certain publications to mail at a Mike Finch is now the only business reporter, according to my the House and Senate that Republican leaders wanted to muzzle reduced rate, it requires that more than 50 percent of the readers source. his publication. be paid subscribers. The publication’s “entertainment team” consists of David He claims this plan was “fathered by Speaker Hubbard” and How that affects the quality of the publication or the news it Holloway (food), Tamara Ikenberg (movies, theater, fine arts), aims for the Senate to define who is a journalist and what is a reports is beyond logic, but it does effectively block a newspaper Lawrence Specker (music) and Michelle Roberts Matthews legitimate news organization. Britt says “bloggers” or online pub- like Lagniappe from competing for this business with papers (homes, weddings and family). lications such as his will be shut out in favor of traditional print like the Press-Register. Even though numerous agencies have No word yet on other changes. and broadcast organizations. requested that we begin taking these types of ads, Lagniappe is “Some of us are scratching our heads,” a source said. Such a move would seem completely counter to the way still locked out because of a postal permit. Among al.com reporters the move to the company’s new things have been going for the past decade in the news business. It goes even further in that the Alabama Press Association building on Royal Street has been roundly greeted with approval. While many traditional publications and broadcasters have found won’t allow this newspaper and others like it to compete in its Multiple employees have said they enjoy the new atmosphere and financial trouble and reduced their coverage, bloggers and online- annual “Better Newspapers Contest,” simply because we don’t bustle of downtown. Some also were happy to have gotten away only publications have risen up to help fill the gap. have the postal permit. In other words, in Alabama the Post Of- from the old building on Water Street. Are all of them quality journalism? No. Have all newspapers fice decides what is and isn’t a newspaper. “I love it. No more ghosts! And it’s so nice being right in the and TV stations presented quality journalism? No. I think it’s fair to say Lagniappe has consistently provided this middle of things,” one insider said. While I can understand the issues created by a lone blogger community with far more and better quality investigative report-

pair of local prep squads continued their winning ways streak, while the men improved to 13-3-2. at the recent Alabama High School Athletic Association • The University of Mobile’s Sara Van Wert has been named volleyball (AHSAA) championships in Birmingham. to the 2014 Capital One Academic All-District 1 volleyball team. The girls from St. Paul’s Episcopal School and Bayside She now qualifies for the College Sports Information Directors AAcademy once again added to their trophy cases. of America’s national ballot. In the Class 5A title match, the Lady Saints defeated Gunters- The senior middle blocker is the lone Southern States Athletic ville 3-1 to win their second straight title. Making the all-tour- Conference representative. She is majoring in biology with a nament team were Konner Wilkes, Ali Sutherland and Morgan pre-med concentration. For her career, she has 1,010 kills and Eiland, who was also the Most Valuable Player. The Mobile 332 blocks. squad ended with a 37-13 record. • The same group has picked USA tight end Rush Hendricks It was a fond farewell for head coach Kelli Hillier, who is and defensive lineman Jesse Kelley to the Academic All-District stepping down after 14 seasons. While at the helm, Hillier led 4 football team. The seniors also will appear on the national the Lady Saints to seven of the last nine AHSAA volleyball ballot. titles. She leaves St. Paul’s with 607 career wins. Hendricks, who was on the all-district team last year, is In the Class 3A finals, the Lady Admirals were down a already enrolled in graduate school after earning his bachelor match point against Madison Academy. However, the club from degree in exercise science with a 4.0 GPA. Kelley, among the Daphne rallied to secure a 3-2 victory. It marks an incredible 13 team leaders with 29 total tackles, is a meteorology major. consecutive state titles for Bayside, including 20 in the last 27 seasons. MSA secures more action Lauren Chastang was named the MVP. On the all-tournament The Mobile Sports Authority continues to join with other lo- team with her were Ariel Dulaney, Brantley Rhodes and An- cal groups to bring athletic events to the area. sleigh Dailey. Head coach Ann Schilling’s team, which finished The MSA is working with the AHSAA, the City of Mobile with a 44-9 record, will return every player next season. Swim Association and Bishop State Community College to host McGill-Toolen, the long-time volleyball power from Mobile, the 2014 South Sectional Championship Swim Meet. This first- came up just short. The Lady Jackets lost in the Class 7A semifi- time event will be Nov. 21-22 at the BSCC’s aquatic facility in nals, ending the year with a 43-9 record. downtown Mobile. The competition, for boys and girls, is projected to bring up College stars pick up honors to 800 athletes to Mobile, along with their coaches and support- The University of South Alabama women’s soccer team ers. The preliminary swimming begins that Friday at 5 p.m., received special recognition at the Sun Belt Conference’s annual with the finals set for the next day at 2 p.m. The diving compe- awards banquet. After winning the regular season trophy with an tition will be Saturday at 10 a.m. For more information, visit undefeated mark and then adding the conference tournament title www.ahsaa.com. last weekend, the Lady Jags became the first school in league Mobile Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau and the MSA history to sweep the major individual honors. have announced the Fishers of Men Southeast Region District Freshman Chardé Hannah received the conference’s offensive 1 bass tourney will take place next year. The championship will Photo/Jason Hillier player and freshman of the year awards. Junior Nini Rabsatt- be on the Mobile-Tensaw Delta Nov. 16-20, 2015, at the Mobile St. Paul’s Episcopal volleyball coach Kelli Hillier is Smith earned the defensive player of the year honor, while County River Delta Marina in Creola. Graham Winkworth was voted the coach of the year. The Fishers of Men group also hosted its 2012 regional in retiring after 14 seasons, 607 wins and consecu- Hannah, Rabsatt-Smith, Rio Hardy, Sophie Haywood and Mobile. The group sponsors 300 annual tournaments in 21 tive state titles. Steffi Hardy earned spots on the SBC first-team squad. On the states. MSA expects 150-200 anglers to participate. For more second-team unit were Monique Autmon and Danielle Henley. information, visit www.fomntt.com. p.m. on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends. Admis- • The men’s and women’s soccer teams from the University sion is $6 per person, with those 3 and under admitted for free. of Mobile picked up first-round victories at home last Saturday Holidays at the Hank “We are thrilled to serve as the host of the first-ever Christ- in the Southern States Athletic Conference tournament. The Baseball may still be months away, but the Mobile BayBears mas Nights of Lights in this area,” said Chris Morgan, the Lady Rams beat Belhaven 5-0 while the male counterparts organization will remain busy as they present a Christmas Night BayBears’ general manager. “This certainly fits into our model knocked off Brewton-Parker 3-0. of Lights at Hank Aaron Stadium. The minor league ballpark of providing affordable, family-friendly entertainment.” Both local squads, who won their regular season titles, will feature hundreds of thousands of LED lights that are syn- The 1.5-mile experience ends at Santa’s Village, where continue SSAC tourney play in Montgomery this Thursday and chronized to Christmas songs playing through the car radio. photos can be taken with the jolly old elf. Games, foods, rides Sunday. Opponents and schedules were not available at press The drive-though light show starts this Friday and runs and other attractions are planned. For more details, visit www. time. The Lady Rams are 14-2-2 and are on a 12-game unbeaten through Jan. 3. The show begins at dusk, and continues to 10 ChristmasNightsOfLights.com.

42 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 43 C O E PAGE AND PALETTE’S 2ND ANNuAL BAy JuBILEE

WHEN: FRIDAy, N OV. 14, 6 P.M. WHERE: FAIRHOPE uNITED METHODIST CHuRCH, 155 S. SECTION ST., FAIRHOPE Page and Palette bookstore announces it will host motivational speaker and best-selling author Nick Vujicic for the 2nd annual Bay of the Holy Spirit Jubilee. Vujicic will speak at the faith- based family event beginning at 6 p.m. The event is held at the Christian Life Center, Fairhope united Methodist Church; located at 155 S. Section St. in Fairhope. Tickets are $25 and include a copy of Vujicic’s latest book co-authored with his wife, “Love Without Limits: A Remarkable Story of True Love Conquering All.” Tickets may be purchased online or at Page and Palette. For more information, contact Page and Palette at 251-928-5295 or www.pageandpalette.com. Photo/Page and Palette

November 13 the inaugural Beacon Award ceremony admission tickets, as well as tickets for the Grand Hotel, Grand Ball Room in Frank Brown International Songwriter’s to celebrate the spirit of giving in our the market’s special events are available Point Clear, Alabama. Tickets are $30, to Festival community. From a rooftop of our fair city, for purchase. For more information visit purchase tickets call 251-279-1517 or by The 30th annual Frank Brown Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson will issue juniorleaguemobile.org or call 251-471- visiting infirmaryhealth.org/getcooperized. International Songwriter’s Festival a proclamation in observance of Nov. 3348. continues every day through Nov. 12–18 as Community Foundation Week in Page and Palette’s 2nd annual Bay 16 with Grammy Award-winning Mobile. The event will be held at Hargrove Jubilee songwriters and up and coming stars Engineers + Constructors rooftop at 6 Page and Palette bookstore announces of tomorrow performing original songs p.m. Contact Kimberly Nichols for more it will host motivational speaker and

EVENTS | N OVEMBER 13, 2014 - NOVEMBER 19, in multiple locations in Perdido Key information 251-338-7750 or knichols@ best-selling author Nick Vujicic for the and Pensacola, Florida and Orange communityfoundationsa.org. 2nd annual Bay of the Holy Spirit Jubilee. Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama. For Vujicic will speak at the faith-based family OF more information including a schedule Major 20th century Catholic writers: event beginning at 6 p.m. The event is and list of performers, visit www. Prophets for Today held at the Christian Life Center, Fairhope frankbrownsongwriters.com/ This lecture will focus on five well- United Methodist Church; located at 155 known American Catholic writers. It S. Section St. in Fairhope. Tickets are Cash Mobile emphasizes the startling fact that even $25 and include a copy of Vujicic’s latest The Mobile Area Chamber (in partnership sophisticated and prayerful readers book co-authored with his wife, “Love with the Downtown Mobile Alliance and have yet to comprehend fully what these Without Limits: A Remarkable Story of

ALENDAR Leadership Mobile’s Class of 2014) is prophetic writers are telling us as critics True Love Conquering All.” Tickets may

C hosting its first Cash MOB 5-7 p.m. at of Western European and North American be purchased online or at Page and Urban Emporium downtown on Dauphin self-centeredness and complacency. Palette. For more information, contact Street, attendance is limited to 50 The lecture will begin at 7 p.m. at Byrne Page and Palette at 251-928-5295 or people. There is no cost to attend, but Hall, Spring Hill College Campus, 4000 www.pageandpalette.com. participants need to register by calling Dauphin St. For more information call Photo/foofoofest.com 251-431-8606. Everyone registered will 251-380-4660. LODA ArtWalk receive a ticket to attend. Foo Foo Festival Downtown is the place to be! Join Thursdays at the Museum The Foo Foo Festival is a 12-day downtown art galleries, institutions, Voices of Jerusalem Lecture Series Every Thursday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. eclectic mixture of art and culture events studios and unique shops as they open As an extension of the Voices of the Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum ranging in tastes, with everything from their doors and welcome you inside to Jerusalem exhibit, there will be an Drive, offers free admission to all visitors. Blue Angel air shows, and songwriter’s see beautiful artwork, sample delicious academic lecture series. “The Sacred Join MMOA each week to experience music festivals to ballet, opera, high foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Law of Hospitality” by John B. Switzer, the museum in new and exciting ways art and even the PensaCon Comic Pop ArtWalk. The ArtWalk gets better and Ph.D., associate professor of theology, throughout the year. No reservations Expo. The festival takes place during 12 better each month. From 6–9 p.m. in the director of the Center for Interreligious necessary. days in November, beginning Thursday lower Dauphin Street district. Understanding, Spring Hill College will Nov. 6 and ending Monday Nov. 17 be held at the Gulf Coast Exploreum November 14 in Pensacola, Florida. For a complete November 15 Science Center from 6–8 p.m. Cost for Christmas Jubilee schedule of events and more information The Black & White Ball attending will be $10 per person and will Christmas Jubilee, the Mobile area’s please visit www.foofoofest.com. Daphne Civic Center, 2603 U.S. Highway include hors d’oeuvres and drinks. For largest holiday shopping market and 98, Daphne, presents a ballroom dance more information contact Don Comeaux Junior League of Mobile fundraising Age Fast, Age Slow it’s up to you featuring Mr. Big & The Rhythm Sisters. at 251-208-6855 or email dcomeaux@ event. This year’s market will feature Join us for a brunch and presentation Doors open at 6 p.m., ball starts at 7 p.m. exploreum.com. traditional favorites and new highlights featuring Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D., Attire is formal or semi-formal, but not for the market’s 30th anniversary, Nov. founder of the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, casual. Tickets are $20 a person or $200 Beacon Awards 12-15 at The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd. N. Texas, and pioneer of preventive for a table of 10. Must be 21 or older to In recognition of National Community Featuring more than 110 merchants from medicine. Dr. Cooper is an international attend. For tickets and more information Foundation Week, the Community around the country, Christmas Jubilee authority on how to live a healthy lifestyle. call the Daphne Civic Center, 251-626- Foundation of South Alabama is hosting offers a broad selection of gifts. General The brunch will be begin at 10 a.m. at 5300.

SEND yOUR EvENTS TO [email protected]

44 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 C O E Market on the Square held at the Mobile Mardi Gras Museum, Gallery, 612 Dauphin St. There will also 1914 is Wrong — And Why it Matters.” The fall harvest is in so join us in 355 Government St. The theme is Blue be works by more than 60 area artists on The lecture will be held at 7:30 p.m. in Cathedral Square (lower Dauphin) and Twilight Masquerade. The dress attire display. For more information call 251- Byrne Memorial Hall, the former library come get your fresh greens, fall corn, is semi-formal and masks are optional. 694-0278. near the Old Shell entrance to SHC. squash, peppers, sweet potatoes, Tickets are $35 and you bring your own Volunteers Needed pastas, seafood, sausages, eggs, goat beverage. Please contact via Facebook November 17 Volunteers are needed to work at tax milk cheese, breads and baked goods. Kappa Zeta Sigma. Ballroom Dance help sites in the Mobile area during the Also, shop for locally produced crafts The Moonlight Chasse Ballroom 2015 tax season. Those who volunteer like handmade candles, soaps, pottery Dance Society hosts dance classes will be trained with Internal Revenue and much more. Stay for live music. For with professional instructors at 7 p.m., Service tax materials to help elderly more information, please call 251-208- followed by dancing from 7:30–10 p.m. and low-to-middle-income people with 1550. Admission is $10. There will be a cash their federal and state individual income bar and no need to bring a partner. tax returns. For more information or Greenleaf Writer’s Group Beginners are welcome. Fitzpen Place, to volunteer, contact United Way of The Greenleaf Writer’s Group is currently 11247 State Highway 31, Spanish Fort. Southwest Alabama at 251-431-0110 or welcoming new members. We meet For more information, email Cassie dial 2-1-1. every third Saturday of the month at the Fishbein at [email protected]. Semmes library from 10 a.m. until noon. If you are an aspiring writer, come join us. For more information call 251-490- 5199.

Photo/SRFCU

Singing River Federal Credit union “Red vs. Blue” “Red vs. Blue” will be at War Memorial Stadium in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The athletic events will include a fire hose pull, speed and agility run, body carry Photo/Dan Anderson relay and a rapid-fire paintball shootout. There will also be an emergency vehicle Photo/frankbrownsongwriters.com exhibit, patriotic music and fireworks Ark of India during the event. Gates open at 5 p.m. “Ark of India: An Alabama Artist Explores

and the event begins at 6 p.m. A $3 Southern Asia” is an exhibit about November 19 EVENTS | N OVEMBER 13, 2014 - NOVEMBER 19, donation at the gate is requested, and personal discovery and exploration. Bend & Brew Photo/mobilesymphony.org children 12 and under are free. For more It is an account of late 19th and early Join Fairhope Brewing every Wednesday OF information, call 228-475-9531 or visit 20th century India as seen by Alabama night starting at 6 p.m. for Hoppy Yoga. Beethoven and Blue Jeans www.srfcu.org. artist Roderick D. MacKenzie, using his The taproom is transformed into a yoga An old favorite gets an exciting new twist paintings, drawings, sculptures and most studio with Soul Shine Yoga leading as the Mobile Symphony performs two LA Vets Fest importantly, photographs and writings. the session. It’s only $5 to participate complete symphonies of Beethoven – No. Join St. Francisville, Louisiana for LA The exhibition is organized by the History in the class and then you can stick 1 and No. 8 – both receiving their Mobile Vets Fest. There will be blues musician Museum of Mobile, 111 S. Royal St., and around for beer specials as well as light premieres! And in between is another Marcia Ball, and Jimmie Vaughan & the is on view until Sept. 1, 2015. snacks provided by Pretty Mean Sweets. ALENDAR novelty – the Grammy Award winning Tilt-A-Whirl Band, featuring Lou Ann Fairhope Brewing is located at 914 Harlem String Quartet. These virtuosos Barton there providing entertainment as November 18 Nichols Ave., Fairhope. C join the MSO for Delights and Dances by well plenty of activities. The fun starts Why What We Think About 1914 is Abels. The Quartet will begin at 8 p.m. at at 10 a.m. and will last until 9 p.m. Visit Wrong — And Why it Matters Tour Space 301 the Saenger Theatre, 6 S. Joachim St. For www.lavetsfest.org for more information Dr. Michael Neiburg of the U.S. Army Tours of the Main Gallery and Fabrication more information call 251-432-2010 or or email Scott at sfpdchief@bellsouth. War College in Carlisle, Penn. will be Hall are every Wednesday and Saturday, visit mobilesymphony.org. net. the featured speaker at the 34th annual 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Centre for Portier Lecture on the campus of Spring the Living Arts/Space 301, 301 Conti Blue Twilight Masquerade Cabaret November 16 Hill College, 4000 Dauphin St. His St. Tours included with the price of The Kappa Zeta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Open Studio lecture, in commemoration of the 100th admission. Call 251-208-5671 or visit Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is having a Come enjoy complimentary mimosas anniversary of the start of World War I, www.centreforthelivingarts.com for more cabaret from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. It will be as artists work at the Cathedral Square is entitled, “Why What We Think About information.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 45 CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Corner chesspiece 5. Bailiff’s concern 9. Bled, like dye 12. Face form 13. Fabled runner-up 14. Good ___ boy 15. Soaks in sauce 17. Bill’s partner in love 18. Acrobat catcher 19. Reserved 21. Cavalry weapon 24. Simon ___ 26. “___ ideas?” 27. Goes head-to-head 29. Waste, as time 33. Base bed 34. ___ Island National Monument 36. Vamp’s accessory 37. Cap site 39. Just in case 40. Advantages 41. Minimalist’s goal? 43. Havens 45. Mine passage 5. “Come again?” 31. Individual 48. Corn holder 6. Teller 32. Aberdeen miss 49. Musician’s asset 7. Tick off 35. “Cheers” prop 50. Moves in waves 8. Best left alone 38. One with a pole posi- 56. Glade shade 9. “___ of Ages” tion? 57. It may get into a 10. Cream additive 42. Practice piece jamb 11. Bright light on Broad- 44. Addis ___ 58. Make a cake, e.g. way 45. Pursue 59. Opener 16. Chutzpah 46. Robust 60. Competitive plus 20. It can’t hurt to do this 47. General assembly? 61. Culminating point 21. Type of race 48. Pickle 22. In a bit 51. Common consent DOWN 23. Memory unit 52. Cat hater, stereotypi- 24. Tennis champ cally 1. Computer acronym Monica 53. Kind of dance 2. Female gametes 25. Tag sale tag 54. Manage, with “out” 3. Sculler’s need 28. Misery causes 55. Census datum 4. “Dave” star Kevin 30. Nile bird Answers on page 49

46 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 STYLE Monthly Soul Kitchen showcase is ‘elemental’ BY CLYDE FOSTER/CONTRIBUTOR

he Soul Kitchen is arguably the premier club-style music The change was in fact the most feasible possibility. As an venue in Mobile. Compared to others, it has definitely employee of Soul Kitchen, Maness asked management if he could shown hip-hop an overwhelming amount of love. Acts mix work and play and “they were totally open to the idea,” he that five or six years ago would have never had a reason said. Tto visit the sleepy city have rocked shows at the Kitchen more Since, ELEMENTS has continued to grow but remains less recently. Emcees such as Big K.R.I.T., Curren$y, Yelawolf and about flashy, big names and more about giving local, lesser- even Snoop Dogg (or Snoop Lion, whatever he goes by nowa- known talent the push that it needs. days) have graced the stage, giving hip-hop heads round the city “We are opening doors that 10 years ago would not have been reason for elation. possible (to open),” Maness said. But the Soul Kitchen is also home to a lesser-known gem of As for the artists? They have nothing but praise for the hip-hop culture: The monthly ELEMENTS showcase. While it showcase Maness started a little more than three years ago. may lack the notoriety of having big name artists, it is slowly Soul singer/emcee Indyah Rashaud, a member of the Alabama becoming a fixture in the local hip-hop scene with its format to collective Nu Nation, credits ELEMENTS for helping her stage encourage both homegrown and regional acts to sharpen their presence. craft, grow their fan base and take the necessary steps to advance “If I learned anything from being involved in the ELEMENTS their career. showcase, it’s how to handle myself on a stage,” she said. “One “I have been putting on ELEMENTS since January of 2012” thing Seth told me is to have a relationship with the sound man. Seth Maness, the man responsible for the showcase, said. “So That relationship can be the difference between a good show and almost three years now.” a indecipherable show.” Although the program is still developing, Maness is no new- A poorly organized show can be a nightmare for an artist. Tim- comer to Mobile’s hip-hop scene. ing delays, an unprofessional staff and favoritism towards other “I first became involved when I started attending an open mic artists can each cause major headaches for up-and-comers who called Diversity,” he said. “It was held at The Bubble Lounge on are just trying to get their foot in the door. But Rashaud said ELE- Old Shell Road. Being a bar, it meant I had to wait ‘til I was 21 MENTS puts a shared emphasis on everyone. to attend … before that it was rappin’ at house parties and living “Compared to other showcases, The ELEMENTS is tops as far room sessions.” as professionalism and structure. Every artist received equal op- Maness said his spinoff opened the door to more than just portunities to shine. Overall (it’s) a great environment to cultivate music, and its namesake is the culture itself. the art of organic hip-hop.” “I chose (the name ELEMENTS) for the fact that word rep- Poet/Emcee Baron Amato, also a member of the Nu Nation resents the true hip-hop culture. As in the four basic elements of collective, lives in New Orleans. But ELEMENTS is one of the hip-hop are DJing, B-boy or breaking, graffiti art and emceeing” few things he doesn’t mind making the two-hour commute to he said. catch. He echoes the sentiments of his colleague on the quality of The show runs deeper than the title, however. While emceeing the showcase and tips his hat to the staff. (or rapping) will always be the center of a hip-hop showcase, EL- “Everyone involved with ELEMENTS is very hands-on and EMENTS often features a sub-theme highlighting other aspects they provide great feedback as fans, artists and promoters on of the culture. In March, they had a beat battle/DJ showcase. what went well and things that could be enhanced,” Amato said. In May, they held a graffiti edition, taping off space on the side Beamin, half of the local hip-hop duo Beamin and Timmy, of the main stage and giving various street artists a platform to also touched on the showcase’s role in helping to expand the display and sell their work. Their latest showcase in September group’s network. was the B-Boy/Girl edition, giving all break dancers the chance “For me, there’s nothing better than a collective group of Photo/Facebook to show off some of their moves. underground hip-hop artists collaborating to put on a great show,” Unbeknownst to some: ELEMENTS did not actually start at he said. “The ELEMENTS movement has grown so much. We The Nu Nation collective is among the budding Soul Kitchen. have linked up with artists from Pensacola to Biloxi and even hip-hop artists featured monthly at Soul Kitch- “It was birthed from what was the center of the Mobile music New Orleans to Baton Rouge.” en’s ELEMENTS showcase. scene at that time, the Alabama Music Box,” Maness said of the Indeed, a strong performance at the showcases can also lead to show’s origins at the now vacant building further down Dauphin bigger opportunities. Street. “The environment of that venue allowed me to reach out “There will always be great hip-hop getting slept on (in Mo- ears open for new talent. to a broad spectrum of people in and out of the city.” bile),” Maness said. “I feel that those of us who are on that vibe “I keep an eye on who is putting in work,” he said. “Those who Although the Music Box would later reopen at its new location are only starting to notice each other. When we can get this music appreciate and help support get put in rotation more. I reach out upstairs from Alchemy Tavern on Joachim Street, Maness saw an to the masses then we might have a chance to see the change. to new artists, as well as they reach out to me. You might not be opportunity to relocate his successful showcase. When conscious hip-hop is selling out Soul Kitchen, then I will on stage today, but tomorrow is a whole new chapter.” “When AMB was in its last days at the original location, I believe our city feels what we feel. In the immortal words of Sam According to Maness’ Poet Tree Ent. Facebook page, the last decided to keep ELEMENTS alive by switching locations to Soul Cooke, ‘Change is gonna come.’” ELEMENTS showcases of the year are scheduled Nov. 28 and Kitchen.” Meanwhile, Maness said he was always keeping his eyes and Dec. 26.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 47 THE LOADED QUESTION

What are you not thankful for?

Asked @ 92 Zew Radio Station

“Corporate radio and LSu scaring the crap out of us!”

-Pablo

“Aaron Rodgers, Clay Mat- thews and anything having to do with the Green Bay Packers.”

-Chip Ramsey with WNSP

“I am not thankful for my speeding tickets.”

-Kim

48 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 PORT CITY PREMONITIONS | STYLE Gaunlet thrown in Cancer’s lunchmeat turf war BY DR. ZODIAC/ASTROLOGY GUY

Scorpio (10/23 - 11/21) – With the best of intentions, you’ll go out to celebrate the birthday Taurus (4/20 - 5/20) – You will be called into of a friend that’s considerably younger than you. your boss’ office a week from Tuesday, and you What you thought would be shared drinks among know why. You will immediately regret all those friends quickly turns into one of those “Turn bad decisions you made in the office, as memo- Down for What” screaming, cardboard-checklist- ries of those decisions slowly splash the walls of sign-wearing evenings. After watching your drunk your mind. Maybe the campfire you built in your friend ask five of 10 guys how old they think she cubicle wasn’t a good idea. Maybe the hours you is, you’ll finally decide you’ve had enough and rip spent photocopying your own buttcheeks finally her birthday sign in half, throw her crown away got the notice of upper management. That’s also and loudly remind her that no one really cares not good. No matter what issue finally made the about anyone’s birthday after they turn 12. boss man bubble with rage doesn’t matter, you will be fired a week from Tuesday. Sagittarius (11/21 - 12/22) – Only a few days after using your vote to help to usher in a Repub- Gemini (5/21 - 6/21) – Enraged by the mi- lican majority in both bodies of Congress, you’ll sogynistic Facebook comments by a parishioner start sowing your reward in from unprecedented of your local church, you will give up going to freedom. Not only will you no longer have to mass and risk the fiery perils of hell. After several worry about an impending Obamacare mandate, weeks away from church, you’ll find you’re well you’ll also no longer have to wait up at night with suited for the waters of salvation you’ll find with several guns drawn to defend against a possible a Sunday morning pub trip. A few too many sips Democrat-sponsored assault on your remaining of your new “holy” water will lead you to walk guns. With the time you save “not being tread on,” in front of a WAVE bus. You won’t be killed, but you’ll have more time to fearfully share parody you’ll decide to hobble to church with a broken news stories than ever. leg the next week.

Capricorn (12/22 - 1/19) – You’ll finally go Cancer (6/21 - 7/22) – Your decision to start sailing with your new beau this weekend. A few your own hot dog cart goes well at first. You will miles off coast, you’ll enjoy a nice caprese salad rake in the dough, as a permanent fixture in LoDa. with an immaculately paired white wine at sunset. Every night you’ll be there funneling frankfurt- Suddenly, your vessel will be attacked by an odd ers into the mouths of the drunken masses and allegiance of orcas and small crabs. Launching off making quite the profit. Your success will bring the backs of orcas in midair, the crabs will quickly on undue attention from the local hot dog mafia, take over the deck of the boat, forcing you into the “Sour Krauts,” who will be more than a little the remorseless waters below. Fortunately, you’ll upset that your cart is doing so well. You’ll soon be saved at the last minute by Aquaman — his find a severed pickle laying on your cart. It’s not first rescue since taking the curator position at the a good sign. CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS Gulfquest Maritime Museum. Leo (7/23 - 8/23) – A week from Thursday, Aquarius (1/20 - 2/18) – The time you’ll you’ll make the mistake of partaking in a tuna fish spend in the feminine supplies section at “lunch-to-go.” With only 230 calories in a ready- Walgreens this week will bring strange results to-eat meal, how you could you go wrong? On the this coming weekend. Frankly you’ll be a bit contrary, you’ll quickly learn there are many ways overwhelmed by the number of lubricant options Chicken of the Sea might go sour when you notice and end up with something “warming” that will a dent in the can. Assuming the dent was caused ultimately freak you out when the time comes. by a bumpy ride to work and not by festering Continuing to wear your “Hot/Crazy Matrix Guy” bacteria, you’ll enjoy the tuna anyway. Within an Halloween costume for an extra week turns out to hour, you’ll suffer a severe loss of muscle control be a bad idea when both hot and crazy converge and diagnose yourself with Botulism or Ebola. to beat you senseless. Your lucky number is 3.14. Better yet, you’ll have both and soon become the Mmmmmm, pie. most famous face on local television news.

Pisces (2/19 - 3/20) – Amazed by the amount Virgo (8/24 - 9/22) – Your addiction to coke of traction the Mama June/Convicted Child Sex will get you into some trouble this weekend Offender union continues to get on celebrity – OK, so not that kind of coke. But your love for gossip websites, you decide to pitch a new reality the savory cola will result in an antacid overdose FROM PAGE 46 show to TLC to fill in the obese void left by the and a pretty eventful trip to a local hospital. After cancellation of “Here Comes Honey BooBoo.” consuming gallons of the carbonated beverage, Starring convicted sex offenders and hosted by your esophagus will burn so badly and cause you F Jeff Probst, it’s half “Cops” and half “The Most excruciating chest pain, leading you to believe it’s Dangerous Game,” but it’s generally just a live, a massive heart attack. You’ll scarf down an entire U first person shooter. Ratings will soar through the bottle of Tums, resulting in two stomach pump- T roof and coincidentally, reports of sexual assaults ings and a year in Coke Addicts Anonymous. will decrease tenfold nationwide. Thinking you’re actually addicted to the hard U stuff, your family will disown you. R Aries (3/21 - 4/19) – Realizing how ridiculously good your life is with all your limbs intact and Libra (9/23 - 10/22) – After watching an unset- E a lifetime of comparatively good health, you are tling video of a female rapper dressed as an Indian inspired to do a little more this holiday season for while freestyling about her faux Native American people with physical or developmental disabili- heritage, you’ll become outraged. Feeling obli- S ties. Maybe you never gave it much thought be- gated to inform the higher ups, you’ll put in a call fore. Or maybe you were a bully once and picked H on someone who was vulnerable. Or maybe to a very prominent, local Indian tribe to voice O you’re the type that is always kind and puts the your concerns. Thankful that you pointed out such needs of others before your own. It doesn’t matter a disrespectful action, the tribe promises to cut C – if use your mobility to do something for some- you a large portion of the check after they sue the K one who is not as fortunate, the rewards cannot be troublemaker. Unfortunately, things won’t work, quantified. but the tribe will offer you a Bingo slot machine.

LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 49 MOBILE MAGNIFIED | STYLE Fancy and Sexy: this week in the life of boozie beer Nues BY BOOZIE BEER NUES/SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

t’s just too much. Too much going on, I say. I can’t possibly of the top restaurants from New Orleans to New York. year. Trust me, you won’t be sorry! keep up! Nor can the spies but they have tried. I have tried. Oh The beer kept flowing on Saturday, as did the Moonshine and sweet mamas, we have tried. I’ve got Mardi Gras galas, oyster Bloody Marys. Alabama ranks among “Sexiest Colleges cookoff details, sexy college and baby news. Where else can I hear the champagne tent was also quite popular as they were in America” Iyou get such a variety of scoop in one oh-so-tasty column? That’s pouring out glasses of Veuve Clicqout and Moet Chandon. Fancy The University of Alabama was the only university in the right! You know your Boozester will always do you right. Let’s fancy! state to rank in a recent list of “America’s Sexiest Colleges.” get to it! There were crazy oyster combinations of all types from the The “study” compiled by the website, The Daily Beast, took into classic Rockefeller to a BBQ oyster and macaroni cheese cre- account not only the looks of the male and female students (UA Mobile Museum of Art’s 50th Anniversary Gala ation. So many choices in fact, it was nearly impossible to get to guys received an 8.1 out of 10 ranking; girls received a 7.9), but On Thursday, Nov. 6 the Mobile Museum of Art celebrated its them all. also Trojan Condom’s Sexual Health Ranking of each university 50th anniversary with a gala and the kick-off of its new exhibit There were other activities as well, including cooking dem- (Alabama came in 30th there). Apparently they look at availabil- “The Art and Design of Mardi Gras.” My spies said this was the onstrations, a shucking contest and face painting. Normally I ity of condoms and access to student healthcare centers to come hottest ticket in town and was just fabulous. As you walked in wouldn’t mention the face painting but several ladies had their up with that one. the door, you were greeted with champagne and oysters and there mugs painted with a replica of Mike Tyson’s face tattoo and it Other SEC colleges making the cut: Florida came in at #22 was a giant birthday cake. was pretty spectacular. (Attractive Guys: 6.3 (I’m sure points were deducted for jort I hear they even served the cocktails in real glasses! Fancy! Saturday night some of the aforementioned celebrity chefs wearing there), Attractive Girls: 7.0, Sexual Health: #20). The The exhibits were full of the ornate trains and mystical floats and hosted a pairing dinner at The Gulf in Orange Beach. My spies University of South Carolina claimed the number 8 spot. (At- offered spectators an up-close look at the pageantry of Mardi said you almost felt like you were in California. The outdoor res- tractive Guys: 7.8, Attractive Girls: 7.6, Sexual Health Rating: Gras we all love around these parts. Apparently, they also had taurant, constructed from ship containers, was as cool as it gets. #29). And the University of Georgia did the best among the SEC performance artists, including fire dancers! Don’t worry they Heaters and fire kept it warm, and an open bar and tons of food schools, coming in at #3. (Attractive Guys: 7.7, Attractive Girls: were outside ‘cause everyone knows fire and floats don’t mix. kept my spies pretty happy. “Girl on Grill” star Nikki Martin was 7.9, Sexual Health Rating: #15). Anyway, I hear the exhibit is definitely worth a trip out to working hard cranking out tons of delicious lamb chops with the Four SEC schools in the Top 25? I think a play-off is in order, Langan Park, so get your fanny on out there. help of local food celeb Panini Pete. though I’m not exactly sure how that would work. Hmmmm? Everything was fabulous enough that the big-screen TV didn’t even get swarmed until Bama and LSU were in overtime. You Oyster Cook-off a hit know something has to be amazing to get football fans’ attention. Stork Report The Oyster Cook-off at The Hangout last weekend was a re- Congrats to Local 15 TV’s chief meteorologist Derek Beasley ally fun event. Will Kimbrough of Will and the Bushmen, as well as Willie Sugarcapps fame was seen hanging around talking throughout the and his wife, who welcomed a son, Xaiden Alexander, this week. And if you are a fan of the tasty bivalve, you simply can’t The extended forecast for Derek includes diapers full of scattered miss this event next year. Friday night started off with a craft beer evening with Tim and LeeAnn Camp from WZEW, as well. His band performed twice during the festival, along with The Mul- showers, with a 100 percent chance of very little sleep on his festival and the cool temps prompted craft beer aficionados to radar indefinitely. We wish the Beasley family all the best. keep their glasses full. ligan Brothers. Celebrity chefs were running around on Saturday, including Sunday was capped off with a fabulous brunch, with many very hung-over Auburn, LSU and Alabama fans converging and Well kids, that’s all I got this week! Just remember, whether the Food Network’s Martie Duncan, Ippy Aiona, Linke Marals, rain or shine, dramatic or scandalous, or some plain ol’ oyster Michala Ragussis and Nikki Martin, as well as chefs from some indulging in the Bloody Mary Buffet, which I’m pretty sure may have saved their lives. Go ahead and make plans to attend next lovin’, I will be there. Ciao!

50 | LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 LAGNIAPPE | November 13, 2014 - November 19, 2014 | 51