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the young new faces of the oldest city St. Augustine isn’t just history entertaining u newspaper free weekly guide to entertainment and more | may 24-30, 2007 | www.eujacksonville.com 2 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper table of contents feature What’s New In The Old City...... PAGES 16-22 Ryan Dettra interview...... PAGE 17 New Attractions...... PAGE 18 St. Augustine Art Galleries...... PAGE 19 Taste of the Beaches...... PAGE 20 St. Augustine Pub Crawl...... PAGE 22 movies Revenge of the River (movie review)...... PAGE 6 Movies in Theaters this week...... PAGES 6-10 28 Weeks Later (movie review)...... PAGE 7 Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End (movie preview)...... PAGE 8 Movie Merchandising...... PAGE 9 seen. heard. noted. & quoted...... PAGE 9 Jacksonville Film Fest (recap)...... PAGE 10 at home Pan’s Labyrinth (DVD review)...... PAGE 12 Fall TV...... PAGE 13 The Tudors (TV review)...... PAGE 14 Video Games...... PAGE 14 food Raintree (restaurant review)...... PAGE 21 music Blue Crab Fest (Palatka)...... PAGE 23 Music Calendar...... PAGES 23-27 JW Gilmore (Gypsy Cab Co.)...... PAGE 24 Charlie Louvin (interview)...... PAGE 25 Jonny Lang (interview)...... PAGE 26 Spring Music Fest...... PAGE 27 Blue Sky - Wilco (album)...... PAGE 28 Four on the Floor - Juliette & The Licks (album)...... PAGE 28 arts / theatre / on stage Rather Strange Developments - exhibit (Cummer)...... PAGE 29 Dan May (profile)...... PAGE 30 Arts Calendar...... PAGES 30-31 Rocky Horror Show (5 Points Theatre)...... PAGE 31 columns and stuff What’s Eating You?...... PAGE 32 BeachWise (surf column)...... PAGE 33 The Jock...... PAGE 33 NASCAR News & Notes...... PAGE 34

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 3 thisweek Uncommon Music thursday MAY 24 for a Common Cause The Homesteaders, Heavenly Noise, Crystal Stafford and Goliath Flores will step out of the clubs, bars and restaurants and into the Florida Theatre for Uncommon Music for Paulson a Common Cause, a non-profit organization that brings the healing power of the arts into our local heathcare institutions. Come out to support the incredible talent we have Celebrity Chef Series: Paula Deen right under our noses here in Jacksonville, and give back to an Need someone to tell you the best way to cook up some collard organization that does so much for those who need it the most. greens? Look no further than Paula Deen, the Queen of Southern Tickets: $12 Cuisine. The Food Network Fav comes to our very own Publix Florida Theatre- 7:30 pm Apron’s Cooking School to whip up some vittles and sign her latest Info: 355-2787 or www.floridatheatre.com book. Tickets: $125 Publix Apron’s Cooking School, 10500 San Jose Blvd- Signing- 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Demonstration- 6:30 pm Together at Last Info: 262-4187 or www.publix.com/aprons Specializing in what the band calls “heartbreak rock,” Together at Last crafts infectiously catchy yet emotionally honest rock songs that you’ll find yourself singing for days. The talented The Sophomore Attempt Kids Like Us threesome will perform with Another Day in December, Arlie & Tallahassee, FL has never been known for producing great hardcore the Hero, and Paint Me Irrational. Tickets: $6 The Sophomore Attempt bands, but that’s all about to change. Kids Like Us are poised to Jackrabbits Info: 398-7496 This Jacksonville five-piece began playing together three years become the next big break-out hardcore band with their blend of ago and have built a fairly significant fan base in that short time. punk, thrash, and southern rock influences. They take to the stage Sounding like a mix between Taking Back Sunday and Jack’s this week with Down to Nothing, Chaos Days, Call to Preserve and The Subliminator Blending spacerock and spoken word, Serson Brannen, AKA the Mannequin, TSA displays lots of energy live, with the lead singer more. Thee Imperial- 6:00 pm Jeremiah Dunlap using the entire stage to perform. Start It Over, Info: 475-0488 or www.myspace.com/theeimperial Subliminator, is set to roll into Jacksonville, not on a tour bus, but on a motorcycle. If he’s crazy enough to do that, he’s worth Between the Trees, There for Tomorrow and US will also perform. checking out. The Subliminator and Laserstar team up to take Tickets: $10 Murray Hill Theatre- 8:00 pm Retard-O-Bot down TSI this Friday. Info: 388-7807 or www.murrayhilltheatre.com/ Tampa’s own Retard-O-Bot TSI- 9:00 pm Info: 424-3531 MAY 26 - 27 comes to town with Tub Ring, Chris Cox Horsemanship Foxy Shazam!, and Transpose. According to their website, the Tour band’s break-neck beats, riffs and MAY 28 From the foundation of ground electronic impulses pave the road saturday work to the refinement of advanced horsemanship skills for building a for performances that have been Uptown Saturday Night known to end in blood on and off rider’s confidence, internationally Enjoy extended shopping hours, live entertainment, book stage. That sounds like a ringing respected horseman and RFD-TV signings by local and regional authors, performance art, endorsement! Tickets: $8 personality Chris Cox will show refreshments, and original works of art, as the quaint shops Jackrabbits- 8:00 pm you his proven methods. Chris will along San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine extend their hours for Info: 398-7496 also demonstrate his techniques by an evening of entertainment and shopping. Hours 5 pm to 9 pm. working with local problem horses Info: 824.9357 and teach you step-by-step his program to starting a colt. Tickets: MAY 25 Spring Music Fest $25 friday This year’s Fest theme, “Music Meets Movies” brings bona fide Jacksonville Equestrian Center Shipwreck Island Waterpark opens superstar Jim Belushi to the River City. Belushi and his Sacred Info: 573-4895 or www.chris-cox.com This is how you know summer is really here. Adventure Landing’s Hearts Band will perform on stage followed by a screening of Shipwreck Island Waterpark opens for the 2007 season this Belushi’s animated flick Hoodwinked, where the TV and film star Memorial Day Arts and Crafts Festival weekend. Guests can enjoy the usual play areas, waterslides and lends his voice to the Woodsman, an aspiring actor with a thick Celebrate the Holiday weekend at the Memorial Day Arts and Crafts thrill rides and experience improvements like a new liner system Bavarian accent who gets caught up in the drama of Little Red Festival at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre on Anastasia Island. added to the Lil’ St. John’s Lazy River, upgraded food service, a Riding Hood’s fateful trek to Grandma’s house. This event is Items for sale will include jewelry, fine art, woodworking, musical new gift shop and additional benefits for season pass holders. FREE! Read story on page 27. Metropolitan Park- 7:00 recordings, yard ornaments, needlework, kettle corn and plenty of Adventure Landing, 1944 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach Info: 630-CITY food. St. Augustine Amphitheatre- Saturday at 9:00 am, Sunday Info: 246-4386 or www.adventurelanding.com 10:00 am Info: 471-1965

4 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper pato banton sunday MAY 27 Pato Banton Grammy-nominated reggae singer Pato Banton comes to the First Coast to share Positive Vibrations with a beat to keep you on your dancing feet. Many consider his charismatic performances as live theatre where no show is alike and audience members become participants in the experience. North Florida’s own Danka will also perform. Tickets: $15 Freebird Live- 8:00 pm Info: 246-2473

Gary Allan Gary Allan is a critically acclaimed artist who has sold more than 5 million records on his own terms. He has released back-to-back-to-back Platinum albums and landed back to back number one singles at country radio. The sexy swagger of his live show tempered with a rugged yet warm voice has earned him legions of loyal fans. Georgia native Luke Bryan is the opening act. Tickets: $37.50, $47.50 Florida Theatre- 8 pm Info: 355-2787 or www.floridatheatre.com monday MAY 28 Our Annual Memorial Day Picnic First Coast Pride presents Our Annual Memorial Day Picnic in Riverside Park. This free event features live local entertainment, a pet parade, games and prizes. Enjoy the entertainment, sample the food and drink, and participate in the fun and games. Feel free to bring your beach blankets, lounge chairs, umbrellas, sunscreen and all of your friends! Riverside Park, 753 Park Street- 11 am – 6 pm Info: (888) 411-6482 or www.firstcoastpride.com

Summer Concerts In The Plaza Bring your chair and enjoy an evening concert in St. Augustine’s Plaza de la Constitucion while enjoying the cool breezes under a canopy of live oaks as you enjoy a live concert. This Memorial Day the St. Augustine Jazz Society presents Gil Surrette & The Boston Connection and The Roland Fleming Connection. 1-5 pm. Info: 904-825-1004

Paulson New Jersey rock band Paulson has gone through three record labels since they formed in 2001 and have finally found a home at Doghouse Records. Paulson is currently touring in support of their third full length release and has a reputation for energetic and fun live shows. Check them out with Christina Wagner, Down To Earth Approach, Sound the Alarm and Faster, Faster. Tickets: $8 Jack Rabbits- 7 pm Info: 398-7496 wednesday MAY 30 The Wizard of Oz The Alhambra Dinner Theatre takes guests on a journey through Oz in their latest production, which opens May 30th and runs until July 22nd. Expect kids of all ages to be enchanted by Dorothy Gale’s trip over the rainbow, where she takes on the Wicked Witch of the West with the help of her friends the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and, of course, Toto. Special children’s pricing is available. Alhambra Dinner Theatre Info: 641-1212 or alhambradinnertheatre. com

Jonny Lang Modern blues in the ‘90s had a weird phenomenon of teenage blues guitarists rocketing to popularity and the entire trend culminated with Jonny Lang, who earned his first Grammy nomination at just 17-years old. The platinum-selling artist and soulful-voiced guitar hero takes to the Florida Theatre stage with special guest Jon McLoughlin. Tickets: $32.50, $38.50. Read our interview on page 26. Florida Theatre- 8 pm Info: 355-2787 or www.floridatheatre.com Jonny Lang

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 5 toxic algae. Today, the river is not safe to swim or water- opening this week ski in, and the solutions for healing the sick river involve everyone taking responsibility for water conservation and curbing polluted run-off.

EU: Is this the sequel to The Green Mon- ster? JO: Revenge of the River will begin by updating viewers about what has taken place since The Green Monster, but this time around we are not focusing exclusively on the nutrient pollution problem or the massive algae bloom of 2005. Revenge will raise awareness about other critical issues that are not being adequately addressed or even mentioned by elected officials and AWAY FROM HER Grant and Fiona have been regulatory agencies, such as the rapid loss of wetlands, married for decades. They have been through rough inadequate enforcement of our environmental laws, and patches, but their lives are inextricably connected and unbridled growth. We are at a crossroads in the future of their relationship seems idyllic, they share a private the river, and a paradigm shift is in order. language and obvious affection for one another. Now retired, they live comfortably in a house in the country, EU: What sort of work does it take to put but their contentment is permanently disrupted when together a feature of this nature? Do the Fiona’s memory starts to deteriorate. Starring: Julie Willow Point on Lake George and the st. johns river (pictured) is cameras just follow Neil around or is the Christie, Gordon Pinsent, Olympia Dukakis, Michael currently being fought for to be protected from developers. shooting scripted? Murphy, Wendy Crewson. Rated PG-13 JO: We have once again partnered with PRC Digital Media to produce the Revenge documentary. Everyone involved has put an enormous amount of thought and revenge of the river energy into this project. The Riverkeeper and I help decide upon the content, the footage needed, the people we think should be interviewed, and the type of ques- interview with Jimmy Orth, riverkeeper tions that should be asked. PRC Digital Media does the rest. They draft the interview questions and script for the host, conduct the interviews, shoot the location footage, by Rick grant & jon bosworth and do the editing. At last weekend’s Film Festival, the St. Johns sponsored another documentary hosted by retired WJXT Riverkeeper premiered a new film titled Revenge of the Channel 4 anchor, Debra Gianoulis, outlining the many EU: How effective are these films in con- River. This is a follow-up documentary to last year’s problems in cleaning up the sick river. There are other veying the problem the St. Johns River Green Monster, which was a wake-up call to save the complex socioeconomic issues in play, such as runaway faces? St. Johns River from the toxic green slime that clogged development and the proposal to use the St. Johns River JO: The Green Monster was really more success- the river during the summer of 2005. Since then, Mayor as a source of drinking water. ful than we ever imagined it would be in terms of the BUG A lonely waitress with a tragic past, Agnes Peyton has pushed through a save-the-river initiative The film will make its television debut on WTLV 12 thousands of people that we reached and the level of rooms in a run-down motel, living in fear of her called Mayor’s Peyton’s River Accord, which would cost on Thursday, May 24, at 8 pm and it will replay Sunday, awareness that was created about nutrient pollution abusive, recently paroled ex-husband. But when Agnes almost a billion dollars. Mayor Peyton has no idea where June 3 at 3:30 pm. Clearly, this is an important issue and the impact of our yards on the health of the river. begins a tentative romance with Peter, an eccentric, the money would come from–so his “Accord” is only an facing all the people of Jacksonville. Our river is one of Nowadays, people are so visually oriented and film pro- nervous drifter, she starts to feel hopeful again-until idea with no teeth. our biggest assets and we are destroying it with polluted vides an excellent vehicle and medium for the transfer the first bugs arrive. Starring: Lynn Collins, Harry To drive home this issue, the St. Johns Riverkeeper water run-off which contains nutrients that help grow the of important information and ideas. We think Revenge Connick Jr., Ashley Judd, Lynn Collins, Brian O’Byrne. will really be an eye-opener for the public. It will help Rated R people understand how serious these problems facing the river are and the urgency for action. We hope this THE PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD’S film will empower the people and help to facilitate posi- END Will Turner (Orlando Bloom), Elizabeth Swann tive change. (Keira Knightley) are allied with Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush) in a desperate quest to free Captain EU: How is the production for these films Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) from his mind-bending financed? trap in Davy Jones’ locker. Meanwhile, the terrifying JO: St. Johns Riverkeeper is a privately funded, non- ghost ship, The Flying Dutchman and Davy Jones, profit advocacy organization, so we must raise money under the control of the East India Trading Company, from concerned citizens, businesses, and foundations, wreaks havoc across the Seven Seas. Navigating such as The Cummer Family foundation, for our operat- through treachery, betrayal and wild waters, they must ing budget and for special projects like this film. Fortu- forge their way to exotic Singapore and confront the nately, we have supporters who value having a full-time cunning Chinese Pirate Sao Feng (Chow Yun-Fat). Now advocate representing the interests of the river and who headed beyond the very ends of the earth, each must understand the importance of educational projects, like ultimately choose a side in a final, titanic battle, as not Revenge of the River. only their lives and fortunes, but the entire future of the freedom-loving Pirate way, hangs in the balance. In EU: Has the situation changed any since this episode we will meet Jack Sparrow’s father played the release of The Green Monster? by, of course, Keith Richards. Rated PG-13 JO: Unfortunately, our river is still sick today and has continued pg 7 improved little, if any, since The Green Monster. How- ever, awareness and concern are at an all-time high, and Mayor Peyton and some of the regulatory agencies have since drafted a $700 million restoration plan for the St. Johns, the River Accord. While the Accord is historic, in terms of the proposed spending, and it is certainly a good start, much of the funding has yet to be appropriated and will be up to the annual whims of the Florida Legislature. Also, the plan is not comprehensive in scope. The Accord is only one part of the recipe for restoration. We intend to outline the rest of the ingredients in Revenge.

6 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper WAITRESS This indie from filmmaker Adrianne ending we got this time around, fans may be foaming Shelly, who also appears in the film, was a winner at the mouth to see this story conclude trilogy-style. at Sundance. But the film took on new significance With any sequel you’re obviously taking away when Shelly was murdered by a construction worker the element of surprise, theme-wise. We know in her own apartment in NYC just before the picture’s where the film is going; we just don’t know how premiere. Shelly’s scenario is about a waitress, the filmmakers will chose to get us there. This time played by Keri Russell, who is unhappily married but around, the shock of seeing “zombies” running full hopes to win $25,000 in a pie-baking contest. She speed to rip the life out of their victims, as opposed loses all hope when she finds out she is pregnant, to creeping along groaning, is long gone. To up the until she meets a newcomer to town and falls into ante, the filmmakers have gone bigger, with massive an unlikely relationship with him as a last attempt at explosions, varying methods of taking out the Infected happiness. Also starring Jeremy Sisto, Cheryl Hines, and destruction on a much larger scale. The result is Nathan Fillion and Andy Griffith. Rated PG-13 a film that visually and psychologically pleases (that is, if being creeped out walking to your car alone at now showing night is psychologically “pleasing”), much like the first 28 WEEKS LATER Six months have passed since film, but with a more commercial action film feel and the rage virus has annihilated the British Isles. The a seemingly rushed storyline that contains plot holes U.S. Army declares that the war against infection has so large you can fly a helicopter through them. I won’t been won and that the reconstruction of the country give away too much, but I will say that not even the can begin. As the first wave of refugees return, a most dedicated fanboy will believe some of the stuff family is reunited, but one of them unwittingly carries the writers dreamed up to keep our heroes alive. a terrible secret. The virus is not yet dead, and this Don’t let these low points deter you from time, showing no outward symptoms, it is more checking out 28 Weeks Later, though, particularly if dangerous than ever. Rated R you’re already a fan. The Infected are just a vicious and crazed as ever, killing and infecting their victims 28 weeks later in incredibly brutal ways. The emptiness of this new London is an eerie backdrop to a truly frightening concept. As with most films of this genre, suspension movie review of disbelief and a love for gore are required for peak enjoyment, so be sure to leave your film snob credentials at home. by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] With so many blockbuster films coming out it’s B- Rated R 91 min. managed to make a decent amount of money, nice to see a relatively small horror flick make a dent RottenTomatoes.com is a popular movie site that considering the competition, taking in over $24 million in the numbers. While 28 Weeks Later has a very long compiles critic reviews and grades films based on worldwide since its release. Critics are even enjoying way to go before knocking off Shrek or Spidey, it’s got those opinions. Surprisingly, the highest rated film of this film, as evidenced by the 70% fresh rating it’s a lot of fan-love behind it and that’s giving it the extra BLACK BOOK Set in the fall of 1944, this thriller the top five grossing movies last week was28 Weeks received on RottenTomatoes.com. Rumors of a third push it needs. about the Dutch underground is based on true Later, a horror sequel that’s thrived despite being up film have begun to swirl and, given the cliffhanger events that span nearly a year. Rachel Stein is a against some of the biggest movies of the summer. young, pretty Jewish woman who falls for a high- The well-received “zombie” flick is now in theaters ranking Gestapo officer while seeking revenge for her family’s murders. Everyone involved soon finds everywhere. themselves embroiled in a spider’s web of intrigue, The film opens on a farmhouse where several treachery and betrayal-to the point where friend and Rage-infection survivors are hiding from the enemy blur together into an indistinguishable line. bloodthirsty Infected who still roam the countryside. Rated R Two of the refugees are Don (Robert Carlyle) and Alice (Catherine McCormack), a married couple who DELTA FARCE Larry the Cable Guy stars as member luckily sent their children overseas before the outbreak of a blumbling Army reserve outfit that is bound for began. We get a glimpse of their life in exile before continued pg 8 continued pg 8 Iraq. However, they are accidentally dropped off at a we meet first-hand what they are hiding from. The Mexican village besieged by hostile forces. Let the Infected burst into the cottage and begin violently fun begin. Rated PG-13 picking off the inhabitants one by one. Don and Alice are the last ones left and, instead of protecting his wife, Don jumps out a window to freedom. As he runs away from the house toward the safety of a motorboat, Don looks back to see his wife being overtaken by the zombie-like menaces. Flash-forward to 28 weeks later (I’m sure you saw that coming). The Infected have died of starvation and survivors are now living in a quarantined area of town under US Army rule. Don’s there, working as a maintenance man and living the good life in a swanky high-rise apartment. London is slowly becoming repopulated, with refugees flying in from all around the world. The first children to enter the healing city DISTURBIA Shia LaBeouf stars as Kale, a kid who punches out his teacher, and consequently, is placed are Tammy (Imogen Poots) and Andy (Mackintosh under house arrest. Wearing an ankle bracelet with Muggleton), Don’s kids. To retrieve some photos and GPS while confined to his house, he gets bored and personal belongings, the two sneak out of the safety becomes a voyeur. First, he spies on his beautiful zone and go to their old house, where they make a teenage neighbor, who comes over to confront him. shocking discovery that causes the Rage-virus to Then, he sees strange things going on at another start all over again. With the help of a US Medical neighbor’s house and that leads him to believe the Officer (Rose Byrne) and a trained sniper (Jeremy man, Mr. Turner (David Morse), is a serial killer. Renner), the kids fight to stay alive as the Infected Rated PG-13 take over and the Army takes extreme measures. The two highest grossing films last week GEORGIA RULE A rebellious teenager (Lindsey were Shrek the Third and Spider-Man 3, big budget Lohan) is hauled off by her dysfunctional mother chapters to well-established franchises. Compared continued pg 8 to these box office monsters, the28 Days Later franchise is small potatoes. Still, the sequel has

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 7 (Felicity Huffman) to spend the summer with her grandmother (Jane Fonda). This arrangement will lead all three women to revelations of long buried family secrets and a greater understanding of family unity. Rated R

PROVOKED – A TRUE STORY The true story of Kiranjit, an Indian woman imprisoned for murdering her abusive husband who had her conviction overturned in a case that changed British law. Starring Aishwarya Rai, Nandita Das, Miranda Richardson, Naveen Andrews, Robbie Coltrane. Not rated.

counsel, is apt to play a pivotal role in part three of yo ho ho a pirate’s the series. Although some have speculated that Jack SHREK THE THIRD The big green ogre is back with his pals for another adventure. When his new father- and Tia were once lovers, others on the net theorize in-law, King Harold, falls ill, Shrek `is viewed as the that she is, in fact, his mother. Jack says in Dead- heir to the land of Far, Far Away. Shrek, who doesn’t man’s Chest that there was a time when he and she want to give up his beloved swamp, recruits his pals were “inseparable,” which may be Jack’s obfuscated Donkey and Puss in Boots to install the rebellious Artie life for me way of saying that he may have spent nine months as the new king. Princess Fiona rallies a band of royal inseparable from her during her pregnancy. girlfriends to fend off a coup d’etat by the jilted Prince The fact that she actually seems to be Jack’s Charming. Rated PG pirates gets hyped up for the big screen contemporary in age is no deterrent to these theo- rists, who also hint that she was once the lover to Davy Jones and was the ex-goddess Calypso. Is it by Erin thursby [email protected] true? Who knows…but I hope that the actual movie What’s remarkable about the Pirates of the aligned and the scheduling conflicts disappeared. is entertaining as the theories and websites it has Caribbean movie series is that it is based on a ride Keith Richards will be in Pirates 3 as Captain Teague, spawned. at the Disney theme park. Everyone expected it to fail who may or may not be Captain Jack Sparrow’s because it was doubly cursed, once because it was father. Word is that the script may be nebulous on Here are just some of the websites that the point of Jack’s parentage. a pirate movie and once because it was inspired by a amused me during my voyage to find ride. It is the only widely successful franchise to be based on a Disney ride. info about the franchise phenomenon The ride itself has an interesting history. the pirates ride on the web. Installed in 1967, it’s the last ride to be largely influenced by Walt Disney himself, who liked to be in on ∙ Opened March 18, 1967 Check out the Elizabeth Swann hate site: the design process. It was also the most ambitious ∙ Includes 66 pirates & villagers, 57 animals & “Love her? Go away. Hate her so much it physi- animatronics project that Walt had ever done. birds cally hurts? Join!” broken-body.net/wretched/ The first two Pirates movies incorporate scenes ∙ Takes about 14 minutes 30 seconds (varies) For a site dedicated to the loving relationship between Captain Barbossa and Jack the from the animatronics ride. Wisely, they kept these ∙ Has a capacity of 3400 visitors per hour scenes as part of the backdrop of the movie, rather Undead Monkey: caged-child.net/cap/ than plot staging points. In the jail scene of the first Learn about Pirates! the big budget porn movie, the dog with the keys and the prisoners trying (shot in Tampa Bay) inspired by the Curse of to coax him near, is lifted straight from the ride. The speculation on the role of tia the Black Pearl, safely by going to wikipedia: governor/mayor being dunked in the well by ruffians en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pirates_(2005_film) and pirates can be found as part of the backdrop in dalma An unofficial Verizon commercial on You- SPIDER-MAN 3 Spidey is back for a third episode. In the second movie. Tube featuring a fake Jack Sparrow (sample this scenario, he explores his dark side when an alien But the influence works both ways. Because Tia Dalma (Naomie Melanie Harris), the mys- text: “I said bring me that horizon, not Verizon.”) entity lands on earth and attaches itself to Peter the first Pirates movie was such an unexpected hit, terious voodoo priestess to whom Jack goes to for youtube.com/watch?v=yvhKIXT5OQk&eurl= Parker (Tobey Mcguire). Suddenly, Spidey is acting Disney decided to place characters from the movie like a jerk, but he likes his new powers. Spidey’s new in the ride itself as part of promoting the second personality puts a strain on his relationship with Mary movie in the series. The ride got an overall facelift Jane (Kirsten Dunst). Rated PG-13 and now you can find Captain Jack Sparrow in three different places during the ride. THE INVISIBLE Nick is a high school senior with a bright future until, in a tragic case of mistaken identity, he is brutally attacked by a troubled girl, and his keith richards rumors, body is left for dead. Now in limbo, not quite dead but invisible to the living, his spirit can only watch confirmed for pirates 3 as his mother and the police search frantically for him, unaware that he is only hours away from truly Rumors of Keith Richards in a Pirates movie perishing. Rated PG-13 have been in the air since Depp claimed that Rich- ards was the inspiration for the look of Captain Jack continued pg 10 Sparrow. Richards was scheduled to play Captain Jack’s dad in part two, but a sudden injury and surgery precluded that. Finally, in part three, the stars

8 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper seen. heard. noted. and quoted.

Hoff Catches a Break A judge has restored David Hasselhoff’s visitation rights with his two teenage daughters after suspend- ing them for two weeks in the wake of the release of drunken footage of the actor struggling to eat a hamburger. Hasselhoff’s attorney disclosed the development Monday before a closed-door hearing concerning the videotape and other issues. Following the hearing, both the ex-Baywatch star and his ex-wife Pamela Bach said they were happy with the outcome, but were unable to elaborate due to a gag order in the case. Gone Wild Guy Cops a Feel Joe Francis is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday in Los Angeles on a misdemeanor charge of sexual battery stemming from an 18-year-old woman’s allegation that he fondled her breasts, buttocks and inner thigh at a party in January after she asked him not to touch her. The Girls Gone Wild guy, who is due to be extradited from Florida to Nevada to face tax evasion charges this week, is not required to attend the hearing. Reality Bites Lieutenant Andy Baldwin popped the question to Tessa Horst, a 26-year-old graduate of Middlebury College, on Monday’s finale of The Bachelor: An Of- ficer and a Gentleman. If the couple actually makes it to the altar, it will be only the second known marriage in Bachelor/Bachelorette history. Get real, y’all. Potter-SAN Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix will premiere in Tokyo on June 28, following in the foot- steps of Spider-Man 3, which staged its world debut there last month. Not Funny “I knew I was back in South Australia when the host came up to me, smiled, gave me a bottle of red and attack of the toys said, ‘Welcome to Adelaide Mr. Urban.’ So I drank it. “Recovering alcoholic Keith Urban told concertgo- ers about being handed a complimentary bottle of how movie merch is ruining movies red wine by a Qantas flight attendant during a recent flight. The country singer’s manager assured fans by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] he was only joking. I honestly don’t remember a time when seeing a movie was just seeing a movie and that was enough. Broadway Desperate for Material And that’s kind of depressing if you think about it. For as long as I can remember, kids have been clamoring A musical version of The Addams Family is scheduled to hit Broadway during the 2009-2010 season. for character lunchboxes, action figures, stuffed animals and T-shirts. Walk through any Wal-Mart toy aisle What’s next, a musical version of The Munsters? makes it clear that this is one thing that will not change any time soon. This seemingly harmless phenomenon is affecting the industry in ways many people fail to realize. Pulp Sci-fi Retread Movie merchandising pretty much started with the current king of movie merch, Disney. Back in the late Robert Rodriguez has signed on to direct Barbarella, a new motion picture adaptation of the classic 20s, the brothers Disney were offered some extra cash to put Mickey on writing tablets and the idea grew sci-fi comic book series. Universal Pictures is fast-tracking the project for a 2008 release, per the from there. After that, licensed Disney characters could be found on everything from household products to Hollywood Reporter. No, Jane Fonda will not be in the picture. Rumor has it Rodriguez will make it a big-ticket items like jewelry. The rest of Hollywood caught on to the idea in the late 70s and early 80s (every- shoot-‘em-up with vampires. one remembers Star Wars toys, right?). Today, nearly every major motion picture has some sort of merchandise available and the studios are making a fortune pimping out their characters to companies that will slap Chihuahua Danger their faces on everything from cereal boxes to curtains. Paula Abdul fell and broke her nose over the It’s not just movie characters who are being exploited. Existing toys and products are being made into weekend while attempting to avoid stepping on movies to get the most bang for your buck. Transformers were originally a line of toys from Japan. Less than one of her Chihuahuas, her rep tells E! News. a year after their release in the US, there was a TV show based on the characters. Then came an animated The injury is not expected to affect her appear- movie. July 4th brings us yet another Transformers movie which means, you guessed it, more toys on store ances on American Idol this week. It was even shelves. Later this year we’ll see something completely different: a movie based on popular advertising too bizarre for Simon to comment about. icons. Set for release in the fall, Foodfight! stars Mr. Clean, Charlie the Tuna, the Energizer Bunny and more as themselves, fighting the evil Brand X when the supermarket closes for the night. Beyond the products these characters are already touting, what else can we expect to see them peddling once the movie is released? Mr. When Did He Know It Clean Diapers? Charlie the Tuna bedding? Robert De Niro filed a motion Friday to dismiss Typically, 40% of merchandise is sold before a film is released, meaning it doesn’t matter anymore the lawsuit brought against him by the insur- how good or bad a movie is. My kids were bored to death by Shrek the Third and yet they both beg for Shrek ance company that covered the production plushies when we wander down the toy aisle. Mind you, these are the same toys that were on sale weeks ago of Hide and Seek, calling the suit “irreparably and gave away plot elements that were better left a surprise (another downside to merch that’s sold before defective” because it will be impossible to prove a film’s theatrical release). We’re getting to a point where the movie, the thing that made the toys exist in the that De Niro misrepresented the company when first place, is secondary to the stuff. Do we really want toy sales dictating what films make it and what films he indicated on a medical certificate that he get shelved? had never been diagnosed with, or treated for, The commercialization of cinema is getting out of hand. After over three decades of buying into the hype prostate cancer. The actor maintains that he (both literally and figuratively), it’s time to tell Hollywood enough is enough. My kids will not be getting Shrek learned he had the disease two days after he babies for the next gift-giving holiday and my husband is not getting a set of Spider-Man 3 action figures. I signed the form. will not be purchasing the Pirates of the Caribbean 3 video game or the Jack Sparrow ring replica. From now on, I’m going to let my money speak for me at the box office, not the check-out line.

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 9 special showings

Moonlight Movies Classic movies will be shown outdoors under the stars at the Jacksonville Beach Pavilion. On May 25 GHOST BUSTERS will be shown. June 1, you can see THE KING AND I and June 8, FORREST GUMP. The movies begin at 9 pm but you should arrive early to get a space because these events are very popular and fill up quickly. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and a picnic dinner or you can purchase snacks at the Pavilion.

MOCA Summer Cinema MOCA Jacksonville’s Film Series is offering an eclectic array of fantastic films and special guest speakers during their MOCA Summer Cinema. Don’t miss this opportunity to see some of the most artful, thought-provoking films of our time. Meet your friends in the Museum’s Atrium before the 7 pm showing for MOCA’s happy hour held each Wednesday evening and pick up a glass of wine or a cold beverage to enjoy as you watch the movie. On Wednesday, May 30 MOCA will show TRANSAMERICA. In this film Bree and her hopes are almost at the point of completion. She holds down two jobs, saving every cent she can, so that she will have enough money to pay for her final surgery – the surgery that will conclude her transformation from male to female. However, without any notice, she is told that she has a jacksonville film son named Toby, apparently a product of some haphazard fling which occurred during her more testosterone filled days. When she arrives at the jail where her son is being held, she discovers that he is unaware of their true relationship. She takes festival recap this as an auspicious opportunity to avoid the inconvenience of the truth and keep her identity as a father secret. Rated R. Tickets are $6 for members by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] and $8 for non-members. If you are not already a MOCA member, take advantage of the Film Series If you happened to miss the Jacksonville Film membership special – become a MOCA member the Festival, you may want to avert your eyes because I’m night of the movie and then watch the show for free! about to make you regret it. This year marked the fifth anniversary of the ever-growing event and those who were Not Just for Baby Boomers Film Series able to make it out enjoyed four days of incredible films, See great movies that boomers grew up with fascinating programs and the hottest parties of the year. that still intrigue and enthrall all generations. Are you jealous yet? Relax at a FREE 5:45 showing of a classic film The festival certainly offered a little something for in the Jacksonville Public Library Main Branch everyone in every category. Film-wise, festival-goers had Auditorium with complimentary popcorn and soda the opportunity to see everything from uplifting docu- and then enjoy an evening downtown. Every 2nd mentaries like Chops to over-the-top slasher flicks such and 4th Thursday. The next film isSPLENDOR as Bloodcar. Shorts programs took a look at everything from “green” films to animation. Aspiring filmmakers or IN THE GRASS on June 14. Info: 630-2665 or John Waters jaxpubliclibrary.org/librarynews/main_boomers_ people who simply love movies could get something out 2007.html of programs like THE TALKIES with John Waters or the Industry Insiders’ Panel on filmmaking in Florida. As anyone who has ever been to the festival before can at- Summer Movie Classics 2007 test, the parties are some of the best of the year, and also the most varied. The Grey Goose Gala was a more The Florida Theatre will be showing Summer Movie formal affair, with people dressed to the nines (admittedly, I did spot some folks in flip flops and shorts- only Classics on Sundays throughout the Summer. in Florida!) while the Front Porch Wrap Party outside the Florida Theatre was the equivalent of a backyard Enjoy great selections from cinematic history in barbeque, complete with spareribs and entertainment by country group Ruckus. the beautiful setting of one of Jacksonville’s own Of course, the point of the entire weekend is to showcase amazing films by talented filmmakers. Festi- classics. The series begins with HIGH SOCIETY val-goers graded the films they saw and the winners of the 2007 Audience Award were: starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra on June 24. All showings start at 2 pm. Call 355- Narrative Feature: Sin Ti (Without You)- This was the first year a Viva Cinema film took top honors. The ARTS for details or go to floridatheatre.com. powerful film, about a family’s struggles after the matriarch goes blind, has been touring the international film festival circuit and wowing audiences for more than a year.

Documentary: Chops- Fresh off of a stint at New York’s prestigious Tribeca Film Festival, Chops follows Jacksonville’s own Douglas Anderson jazz band to the super bowl of jazz competitions, Essentially Ellington. The film was screened to a sold out audience at the Florida Theatre, where it received a standing ovation.

Short: Regarding Sarah- In this amusing but poignant short an elderly woman goes about recording her life so she doesn’t forget anything.

High School Student Short: Eddie Sprocket and the 21st Century- A young man from outer space visits Earth, makes friends and supports the notion that aluminum hats are essential for your health and safety.

College Student Short: Little Gorilla: An adorable little boy finds himself drawn toward the playground’s jungle gym, urged on by dreams, movies and his older brother.

10 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 11 up at a countryside mill where Captain Vidal (Sergi López), Carmen’s new husband, and his army are new on dvd fighting off rebel insurgents. As the war continues to Apocalypto (136 min.) brew all around her, Ofelia, a girl obsessed with fairy In the twilight of the mysterious Mayan culture, tales, explores her new home and discovers a new young Jaguar Paw (Rudy Youngblood) is captured world not unlike those in her storybooks. An ancient and taken to the great Mayan city where he faces labyrinth on the property leads Ofelia to the faun a harrowing end. Driven by the power of his love (Doug Jones), a wise old creature who seems to for his wife (Dalia Hernandez) and son (Carlos think the girl is Princess Moanna, underworld royalty Emilio Baez), he makes an adrenaline-soaked, incarnate. In order to prove she is the true princess, heart-racing escape to rescue them and ultimately the faun assigns Ofelia three tasks, each one more save his way of life. Rated R for sequences of difficult than the last. The tests introduce our young graphic violence and disturbing images. heroine to dangerous monsters, take her to strange new lands and give her magical items to use on her Fay Grim (118 min.) journey and back at home. Indie legend Hal Hartley takes us back to the world of Henry Fool and his wife Fay Grim. Picking up seven years where the first film left off, Fay (Parker Posey) sets out to track down her missing husband’s (Thomas Jay Ryan) diaries in exchange for her brother’s (James Urbaniak) freedom. This film is not rated.

The Good German (107 min.) An American military journalist, Capt. Jake Geismer (George Clooney) is in rubble-strewn Berlin to cover the event, and is quickly drawn into a murder plot involving his appointed driver pan’s labyrinth (Tobey Maguire), an old flame-turned-wartime prostitute (Cate Blanchett) and her missing husband, a scientist who possesses pivotal secrets coveted by Americans and Russians in a dvd review The Pan’s Labyrinth two-disc DVD has quite a pre-Cold War bid for power. Rated R for language, few extras, though not as many as I had hoped. Disc violence and some sexual content. by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] one has an informative feature commentary by Del Mexican directors Guillermo Del Toro, Alejandro home on Oscar night was Del Toro’s film, Pan’s Toro and a section for marketing materials includ- Letters from Iwo Jima (140 min.) Gonzalez Iñárritu, and Alfonso Cuaron, dubbed the Labyrinth, which is now available on DVD. ing TV spots, posters and trailers. Over on disc two Clint Eastwood’s Letters from Iwo Jima tells “Three Amigos,” all earned Academy Award nomina- It’s 1944 and Spain is still in turmoil after their we have a number of featurettes (a.k.a. the good the untold story of the Japanese soldiers who tions for their films last year, bringing Latino cinema Civil War. Eleven-year-old Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) stuff). First is a 14-minute look at the fairytales that defended their homeland against invading to the forefront. The one who took the most statues and her pregnant mother Carmen (Ariadna Gil) end inspired the film (mostly Little Red Riding Hood ap- American forces during World War II. Rated R for parently) called “The Power of Myth.” Next is “Pan graphic war violence. and the Fairies,” an extensive piece on the costumes, make up and visual effects used to create the unfor- Roots- Four-Disc 30th Anniversary Edition (573 gettable creatures Ofelia meets along the way. The min.) color palate is discussed in the 4-minute “The Color Based on Alex Haley’s best-selling novel about and Shape” and “the Lullaby” looks at the making his African ancestors, Roots followed several of the score and gives viewers a listen to various generations in the lives of a slave family, versions of the haunting “Mercedes Lullaby” heard beginning with Kunta Kinte (LeVar Burton), a throughout the film. Next is a look at Del Toro’s pro- West African youth captured by slave raiders and cess, “Director’s Notebook.” As the title hints, pages shipped to America in the 1700’s. The family’s from the director’s personal notebooks can be found saga is depicted up until the Civil War, where here with video clips sprinkled throughout. Next is a Kunte Kinte’s grandson gained emancipation. This “Three Amigos” interview with Charlie Rose, which film is not rated. clocks in at around 50 minutes. The disc is rounded out by a DVD comics section which gives viewers The Third Man- Criterion Collection (104 min.) a chance to learn more background about some of Cynical pulp novelist Holly Martins (Joseph the fascinating characters. An extra bonus to those Cotton) arrives in Vienna to investigate the who have a DVD-ROM drive: pop in either disc for mysterious death of his old friend, black- storyboards, production photos, artwork, the script market opportunist Harry Lime (Orson Welles), in English and Spanish and links. beginning an ever-thickening web of love, I didn’t catch Pan’s Labyrinth in theaters deception, and murder. Supplements include two and, after finally seeing it on DVD, I’m completely audio commentaries, a 90-minute making-of bummed that I missed the chance to see this mas- documentary, an illustrated production history, terpiece on the big screen. There is a reason why archival footage, a booklet featuring essays by this film took home the Oscar for Best Cinematogra- Luc Sante, Charles Drazub and Phillip Kerr, and phy. From beginning to end Pan’s Labyrinth is visu- much, much more. This film is not rated. ally stunning. The use of color, lighting and camera angles add richness to the worlds Ofelia visits. Venus (94 min.) Visual effects and intricate costumes and make up Maurice (Peter O’Toole), an aging veteran actor, bring Del Toro’s highly imaginative creatures to life, becomes absolutely taken with Jessie (Jodie simultaneously enchanting and giving the heebie-jee- Whittaker), the grandniece of his closest friend bies. (Leslie Phillips). When Maurice tries to soften the One thing is certain: Pan’s Labyrinth, despite petulant and provincial young girl with the benefit being a fairy tale, is not kids’ stuff. Graphic violence of his wisdom and London culture, their give-and- and gore will have many squirming and the monsters take surprises both Maurice and Jessie as they are downright terrifying. Both of these are necessary discover what they don’t know about themselves. to the plot; they show how perilous Ofelia’s journey Rated R for language, some sexual content and is; but no doubt nightmare-inducing for young mov- brief nudity. iegoers. Any movie that features a faceless baby- eater is best left for the adults to enjoy.

12 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper fall 07 tv announced network upfronts by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] A couple of weeks ago EU gave you the scoop on which TV shows were looking doomed and which will be sticking around. Last week the major networks confirmed many of my suspicions at the 2007 upfronts, a week-long event where TV execs preview their upcoming fall schedules with advertisers. Here’s the rundown of which shows will go and a peek at what the networks will be replacing them with.

come. Our favorite sassy teen detective has solved ABC her last mystery on the CW. While the network has Canned yet to officially cancel the show, the usually optimis- As suspected, What tic show runner Rob Thomas says the series is a About Brian, The Nine goner. To add to the bad news, long-running shows and Six Degrees bit the Gilmore Girls and 7th Heaven have also exited. dust along side Knights of Brand New Prosperity and In Case of Aliens in America, a show about Muslim exchange Emergency. Long running students, will join the Monday night comedy lineup series George Lopez and while dramas Gossip Girl (basically The OC in Man- According to Jim also wrapped up. hattan), Reaper (about the devil’s bounty hunter) and Life is Wild (7th Heaven in South Africa) will fill in the Brand New gaps. Reality shows Crowned (a beauty pageant) Tons of new shows will premiere next season on and Farmer Wants a Wife (a dating show) will also ABC. In the drama department is the Grey’s spin off make an appearance. Yes, they made room on the Private Practice, a law drama called Dirty, Sexy Mon- schedule for Farmer Wants a Wife but they couldn’t ey starring Peter Krause, yet another lawyer show find a spot for Veronica Mars. The world is a cruel, called Eli Stone and a business-world soap called cruel place. Cashmere Mafia starring Lucy Liu. The dramas I’m most looking forward to are Pushing Daisies and Women’s Murder Club. In Pushing Daisies Lee Pace stars as a man who has the ability to bring back the FOX dead with a single touch. The series has gotten rave Canned reviews from TV insiders and the commercials are Drive drove off into quite intriguing. Women’s Murder Club is about a the sunset along group of novice crime solvers based on the book by with a bunch of James Patterson. The premise reminds me of a mix shows I had com- between Desperate Housewives and Veronica Mars, pletely forgot about (The Winner, Standoff, The War an idea I can definitely get behind. New comedies at Home, Justice, Happy Hour, The Rich List, Van- include Carpoolers, Sam I Am starring Christina ished, The Wedding Bells and The Loop). Applegate, Miss/Guided with Judy Greer, and the genius that is Cavemen (who doesn’t love those Brand New Geico outcasts?). New Dramas: The Terminator-inspired series The Sarah Connor Chronicles, a post-Katrina drama called K-Ville and New Amsterdam about an im- CBS mortal homicide detective, will premiere throughout the season. Comedies include Kelsey Grammer and Canned Patricia Heaton’s Back to You, The Return of Jezebel The three shows that were James starring Parker Posey and The Rules of Start “on the bubble” last month ing Over from the Farrelly Brothers. found their way into TV heaven last week. Jericho, The Class and Close to Home now reside in the great TiVo in the sky. NBC Canned Brand New Hold onto your hats, Only five new shows are set to appear come fall and this is quite a list: 20 most of them are a little out there. Viva Laughlin is a Good Years, Andy Bark- musical drama about a casino owner produced by er, PI, The Black Don- Hugh Jackman, Moonlight is about a vampire detec- nellys, Crossing Jordan, tive, and Swingtown is a racy drama about a town Identity, Kidnapped, full of swingers (go figure). In the realm of normal Raines, The Real Wed- by CBS standards is Cane a drama starring Jimmy ding Crashers, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, and Smits about a Cuban-American family who runs a Thank God You’re Here - Adios! rum business and The Big Band Theory, a comedy about a computer geek who’s smitten with his hot Brand New new neighbor. New shows include Journeyman starring Kevin McKidd as a time-traveler, a series about a guy who accidentally downloads the CIA database into his CW Network head called CQhuck, The Bionic Woman (no explana- Canned tion needed), Lipstick Jungle starring Kim Raver and Veronica Mars fans: we Brooke Shields, a new prison show called Life and a knew this day would comedy called The IT Crowd about computer techs.

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 13 Senkou No Ronde video games mostly bummer edition dashing and bawdy by Norm stovall [email protected] WarTech: Senkou No Ronde The Tudors tv review Xbox 360 by Rick grant [email protected] Senkou No Ronde is one of those unique strategic button-mashing shooters, doing a great job of mixing fighting game style face-offs with scrolling shooter action. That probably doesn’t make a Dashing Jonathan Rhys Meyers stars as Henry he began to look to his oldest son, Prince Arthur as whole lot of sense to read, but once you play for a good bit, you’ll see what I mean. After about a VIII in The Tudors. It’s Showtime’s bawdy period heir to the Throne. But Arthur was sickly. He mar- half hour of warm-up time, the action gets addictive and you won’t be able to stop. Piloting your drama about the ascension of the brash 18-year old ried Catherine of Aragon, the powerful daughter of Einhander-esque mech, your goal is to simply fly around the screen and shoot various types of Prince Henry to the Throne of England. The pen- Spanish rulers Ferdinand and Isabel. Arthur died a bullets at your opponent. Pattern recognition and use of power-ups is a must, and once you start etrating drama takes the viewer inside the seething year after they were married. Bitter and frustrated, learning these techniques, you’ll be hooked. This game is certainly not for everyone, and the style of palace intrigue as Henry beds every young maiden Catherine swore that the marriage was never con- gameplay and presentation is very Japanese. Having said that, I absolutely love it. in the court and tries desperately to have a son by summated. his wife, who has given him only stillborns and girls. With Arthur dead, the way was clear for Sam Neill masterfully portrays the real power behind young Henry to ascend to the Throne. When the old Calling All Cars Henry’s rule, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, who plots to man died, Henry became King Henry VIII. He then PS3 advance his status to Pope. married Catherine, but eventually he shunned her Available Via Download More significantly, Cardinal Wolsey keeps because she couldn’t produce a son. This marital Henry out of trouble with angry husbands and boy- disappointment sent Henry on a sexual binge, There has been so much hype for this game, it’s ridiculous. Touted as David Jaffe’s downloadable friends who he has cuckoled. Cardinal Wolsey sends having trysts with every maiden in the court. He masterpiece, the game has been delayed time and time again. Finally, this game has been released the young women who Henry has knocked-up to a openly expresses his desire to get a divorce from to the public via the PS3 network, and I have to say I’m a little disappointed. In Calling All Cars, it is special halfway house to have their babies. Cardinal Catherine. your job to take cartoony criminals to jail by running them over with your vehicle, and then driving Wolsey both protected King Henry and maneuvered Hirst’s recreation of the Henry VIII story to the Jail located in the center of the map. While doing this, you also have to avoid being attacked his own career simultaneously. makes for exciting viewing with twists and turns by other drivers through crafty steering and use of weapons. You can think of it as sort of a Twisted Meanwhile, Henry engages in the hedonistic as the palace intrigue reaches critical mass. The Metal-meets-Oh Brother Where Art Thou-Meets-A Goofy Movie. I know that seems ridiculous, but pursuits of athletics, hunting, and debauchery. Mey- lush palace setting is richly detailed by experienced that that is what popped into my head when I started playing it. And I hate that I have that image in ers portrays Henry with great flamboyance and artistic designers. Indeed, Rhys Meyers captures my head. acting skill, as Henry uses his reign to satisfy every the youthful energy of Henry with riveting prowess. whim and desire, while Cardinal Wolsey schemes This strapping Adonis is a far cry from the old fat behind the scenes to become Pope. image of Henry VIII. Hirst’s Henry was the rock star Joust What makes this series so refreshing is of his time. Women threw themselves as him as he PS3 Showtime’s reinvention of Henry’s image from the used his rule as a ticket to hedonistic glory. Available Via Download corpulent older king, whose legendary gluttony left Natalie Dormer is a stand-out as Anne Boleyn I don’t really have much to say about this game, other than that you can download it for 5 dollars him obese and mean, to the young palace Don Juan with her come-hither smile. The series shows how from the PS3 network, and it appears to be an arcade perfect port. Well, ok--one more thing. I think whose prodigious appetites eventually caught up absolute power corrupts absolutely as Henry’s this game sucks, and I wouldn’t pay five dollars for it. I thought so when I was 8, and I still think so with him. Yes, it was good to be King Henry, who youthful exuberance for wine, women, and song now. could snap his fingers and get someone beheaded at degenerates into paranoia as his youth fades. He a moment’s notice. then obsesses on real or imaginary plots against Michael Hirst, who wrote the script for Eliza- him. Jeremy Northam excels as Sir Thomas More RED RING OF DEATH beth, created and executive produced this series. and Nick Dunning is another cast stand-out as Sir For Xbox 360 His attention to detail and brilliant casting greatly Thomas Boleyn. upgraded this period drama. The stunning costumes The series is addictive as each episode digs No, it isn’t a Johnny Cash song; it’s what is happening to people’s Xbox 360 consoles since the give the actors regal bearing and grandiose pres- deeper into the complex intrigue that is festering most recent update. Well, it happened to me, and I’m a little peeved about it. See, when your Xbox ence. It’s a young court with heaving bosoms, plenty like a virus inside the palace. It’s quality televi- 360 gets those 3 flashing red lights around the power button, this means you have a hardware failure of frontal nudity, and simulated sex galore. sion that sets new standards for excellence. One and you need to return it for repairs. The good news is that you will get it fixed for free if you have As history tells us, Henry’s father Henry Tudor, can view the entire series On-Demand or tune into had your console for less than a year and have registered it. The bad news is that this happens at all, Earl of Richmond, defeated Richard III and later mar- Showtime every Sunday night at 10 pm to see each and the especially bad news is that it happened to me, and now I can’t play friggin’ Dig Dug. ried Elizabeth of York. Tudor’s reign led to peace and episode.

14 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper

jacksonville literacy costumed fun and pig kissing for Learn to Read Jacksonville by Erin thursby [email protected] WHAT: 3rd Annual Alphabet Affair-Celebrating the Bank, Dr. Edythe Abdullah of FCCJ, Dan Scanlan from Cinema the Times-Union, Scott Houser of W.W. Gay, Howard WHEN: Friday, June 8 @ 6:30 pm Coker of Coker, Schickel, Sorenson & Daniel, PA and WHERE: The Haskell Company, 111 Riverside Ave. Moses Meide of the Law Office of Moses Meide.Each COST: $30 in advance, $35 at the door vote cost a dollar and the event was held at the Base- ball Grounds of Jacksonville. On the big day it was In the campaign for adult literacy in Jacksonville, Howard Coker who raised $20,000 and puckered up one of most important organizations to that end is to kiss the pig! The final total raised from the campaign Learn to Read Jacksonville. This non-profit United Way was $70,000, Learn to Read’s second highest amount charter agency’s aim is to increase literacy awareness ever raised for this event. and improve adult literacy. A staggering 115,000 adults Their upcoming charity event is the 3rd annual in Duval County are unable to read at the most basic Alphabet Affair: Celebrating the Cinema. Each year is literacy levels. LTR works with adults over the age of assigned a letter. The first year was A; this year is C. 16, who read at lower than a 4th grade level. More than Patrons are encouraged to come dressed in a “c” re- one-third of the students who entered the LTR program lated costume, such as a cowboy, clown, cat, cheer- in 2004 were at or below the 2nd grade level of reading. leader or your very own letter “C” creation. Since the Once students improve their reading level, they’re able theme is also Cinema, you can also come dressed as to get higher paying jobs and improve the quality of life James Dean or any other iconic star or character of for themselves and their families. cinema. (Chewbacca from Star Wars is great choice, In order to keep the program going, LTR Jack- since it takes care of both the “C” and the cinema sonville holds various charity events during the year theme). Folks who attend the event will enjoy live mu- and is always looking for volunteers to help tutor stu- sic, dancing, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, silent auction dents. and of course, costume contests. Tickets are $30 in This April, the organization held their 14th annual advance ($35 at the door) group discounts are also Kiss the Pig for Literacy event. As part of a two month available. To buy tickets or for additional information, long campaign, locals voted for one of eight local ce- contact Heather Corey at (904) 399-8894, ext. 13 or lebrities. The celebrities included Greg Perrine of the [email protected]. JEA, John Cooper of St. Vincent’s, David Lane of CNL learn to read success stories More than one Jacksonville local was recognized at this year’s Florida Literacy Awards Banquet. The Banquet was a featured event at the 2007 Florida Literacy Coalition Conference, which hosted nearly 500 adult and family literacy practitioners, volunteers and students. The statewide awards were a tremendous honor for the individuals in the Learn to Read program. They awarded Gatwech Guandong, from Jacksonville’s Westside, the “Flight for Freedom Award.” At the age of 30 Gatwech Guandong, along with his family, escaped the brutal civil war in his native country of Sudan. Today, on the cusp of becoming a U.S. citizen, he and his family are proof that a better life can be achieved through bravery and resolve. In August of 2005, he enrolled in Learn to Read Jacksonville. At that time, Gatwech was reading English at a second grade level. By working hard, he improved his reading and speaking levels of English, making terrific progress despite supporting a family of seven with a full-time job. Jacksonville Beach Learn to Read instructor Paola Fabio, recognized at the banquet for her efforts, began as a student at LTR. She completed the program, learned to speak and read English fluently, became a tutor and now teaches her own ESL class which meets once a week. Although she is now a full-time student at UNF with a job, she still makes time to help at LTR. The stories of their determination are just two of the successes that Learn to Read Jacksonville makes possible every day. If you would like to volunteer for Learn to Read Jacksonville, whether it be as a tutor, office assistant, special event volunteer or in their computer lab, just call 399-8894 for more info or email [email protected]

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 15 ryan dettra

This city, once known as a bastion for forty-plus ex-hippies, has evolved into something new in the past five years. Not at the expense of the old timers, but because those ex-hippies see an energy they are eager to harvest in the youth of today. No one exemplifies this paradigm shift better than Ryan Dettra, the young owner of Café 11, the Vice President of the St. Johns Cultural Council, and the marketing director for the new St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Café 11 is a restaurant and a music venue that has been attracting some of the best national musical acts throughout the last five years of business. The success of Café 11 as a music venue made Dettra a great fit for the Amphitheatre and the Cultural Council, because no one else in the St. Augustine area has been successful at consistently bringing national bands into town. The success of Café 11 as a restaurant has also proved Dettra’s business acumen, a valuable asset to the city council members and business owners of the community. Dettra moved to St. Augustine to attend Flagler College in 1996. At 22, just two years after graduating, he opened Café 11. Since that time, St. Augustine has managed to cultivate a burgeoning music scene, a thriving young art culture, and a community that enjoys great live national acts. Earlier this year he brought the Austin, Texas instrumental rock band Explosions in the Sky to play the historic Alcazar Hotel. “We had Cursive booked first, we got it okayed and everything, but then it went to their board of directors and they didn’t want to take any risks. You know, it’s a fragile building. So of course we understood and so we tried to book within their parameters.” Dettra does not claim responsibility for cultivating St. Augustine’s newly visible youth scene and he doesn’t take credit for the cutting-edge businesses that coincidentally opened their doors just after Café 11, but he certainly celebrates the proliferation of the youth culture and the fabulous breath of fresh air it is bringing to this historic city. Regardless of his hesitance, his part in this new movement has not been overlooked. “It’s a partnership. It builds awareness. It gets people in the community to come out and see that we have a really great museum in the area.” So in another fantastic stride that continues Dettra’s pace toward improving St. Augustine, he was recently hired as the Marketing and Promotions Director of the new Amphitheatre. “There wasn’t really anything for anyone under the age of forty to do, even though we have some pretty great colleges and a lot of great artists in town. It takes time and working with non-profits to show people that there are opportunities, ways that they can enjoy the art in town and take advantage of the opportunities that produces. It crosses over to business, leisure, tourism, all the different areas that improve the quality of life.”

ryan dettra the young new faces of the oldest city

st. augustine isn’t just history by jon bosworth

Jamestown, Virginia celebrated its 400th anniversary this year. British settlers landed in Virginia in 1607, making it the first British colony in the US. 42 years prior to that, the Spanish settled in St. Augustine and made our region the first to be settled by any Europeans. Built largely by Minorcan slaves and certainly at the peril of many Native Americans, that history is a difficult one to be proud of, so rather then spending any more time or energy talking about the history of the Oldest City, EU decided to take a fresh look at St. Augustine to let you know what is going on there now. In addition to an armada of new restaurants that have made some regional waves within the the st. augustine amphitheatre last five years, there are also new cigar bars, martini bars, pubs, live music venues, and plenty If you’ve never been to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre for old performances of The Cross and the Sword, of new art galleries. This city will always be known for the quality staples there. From Cortesses then you may not recognize the dramatic difference between the old amphitheatre, which held less than 2,000 Bistro, the Conch House and The Columbia to Creekside Dinery and Trade Winds, there are plenty people, and the new covered amphitheatre, which seats well over 4,000 people. of quality establishments that have proven their merit for many years. So instead of reiterating what The new facility is scheduled to open at the beginning of September. They are planning a bi-weekly you know, we want to introduce you to something fresh. From our St. Augustine pub crawl to our movie series (which will be free for patrons if some smart sponsors seize the opportunity) twelve to fourteen dining guide, the focus of this EU is what’s new. concerts per year, and festivals that cater to thousands.

16 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper When Tommy Bledsoe, the Operations Manager for the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, was reviewing Josh Jubinsky resumes for the marketing and sales positions, he didn’t pick Dettra (27) and Jenai Masters (26) because of their youth. “They went through a very competitive hiring process. They brought with them their experience, their skills, and they interviewed right along with people that had thirty years of experience in this business, and they got the job because they were the ones that could do it,” said Bledsoe. “When the county first took this place over in 1999 they weren’t sure what they were going to do with it. It’s history with the town, The Cross and the Sword was such a big part of the community. It’s an activity that people either attended, worked in, were ushers or they did concessions. All of the local civic organizations, like the Rotary Club and the Kiwanis, just about every organization at some level, was involved in The Cross and the Sword. Besides that, the location is such an incredible asset. Being here on sixteen acres of maritime coastal hammock land next to the park was too precious to give away, so they said ‘Okay, what are we going to with it?’ And one of the problems was that there was nothing to do at night.” The facility has taken five years to build and most of the stalling has been due to funding, but the structure is now complete and they are working on getting the sound and concession equipment installed so that they can open after the summer. The prematurely bad press they received from the events that took place in the facility before it was complete, such as the Gamble Rogers Folk Festival, is not an accurate representation of the capabilities of the Amphitheatre, since it is still not complete. When the Amphitheatre opens, Bledsoe, Masters and Dettra are certain that there is a good plan for parking, sound, and all of the other concerns people have about the facility. The oldest European-settled city in the US is getting behind its youth, and Ryan Dettra is a great poster- child for this new movement, especially when standing in front of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. As reluctant as he was to stand in front of this impressive structure without Tommy Bledsoe and Jenai Masters posing frequently and to great success until some of the band members moved to Portland, Oregon. John Magnifico, by his side, he looks good in this position and he gives everyone hope in St. Augustine’s future. Best of all, the singer and key songwriter for Twelve Hour Turn, now plays with a band called Old Growth. Old Growth’s he has no hubris. He is glad to not be alone at the helm, but rather joined by some of St. Augustine’s most new album is available through Bakery Outlet Records. Are you confused yet? Bakery Outlet Records is inspirational leaders. Bledsoe and the peers of his and earlier generations see in Dettra and the Amphitheatre a headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida. A key player in Bakery Outlet Records is Rich Diem, who was also in hope for the future of their community. Twelve Hour Turn, and now plays in The Tubers and Solid Pony, two outstanding St. Augustine bands. “What do we have for our young people? What is available to them and what do they need? You wouldn’t The Tubers is Rich Diem and some of the kids from The South, but in The Tubers they have managed want to build this facility for my generation. I’m a baby boomer. In twenty years I’m either gonna be in diapers to channel their angst into a more melodic sort of aggression. Although still screamo, it is somehow sensi- or dead. Maybe I’ll be able to come to a performance, or maybe I’ll be up there performing in my diapers,” tive and almost classic indie. I can’t go too much further without mentioning Jacob Hamilton, but I will have quipped Bledsoe, laughing along with his young new co-workers. to, because other than knowing that he is involved with almost every one of the Dead Tank and Bakery Outlet bands, I don’t know anything about him. He plays in The Tubers and Solid Pony as well as a band called Envi- Environmental Youth Crunch ronmental Youth Crunch. EYC is about to go on a European tour with The Tubers. Their newest member is Josh Jubinsky. Josh is the drummer for EYC and the Jacksonville band Civilization. He is also the owner of Dead Tank Distro and one of the owners of Inertia Records, which finally brings us full circle. I emailed Rich Diem to ask him a few questions about the St. Augustine music scene. “There are some great people around to make [the music scene] happen.” Rich is a teacher in St. Augustine and very sensitive to his impact on our environment, which is one of the things that all of the above-mentioned bands seem to have in common. Bakery Outlet Records uses re- cycled paper and vegetable inks on all of their releases and Inertia Records (although not in St. Augustine) is located inside of Heartworks, the 5 Points vegetarian café. In St. Augustine this set hangs out at places such as Loose Screws, a record store with clothing, books, accessories, and movies, on King Street, Present Moment, a vegan raw foods restaurant, Blue Planet Co-op, “Saturday Farmers Market, Fusion, Asian Paradise Thai, Manatee Cafe, Diane’s Health Food, New Dawn Health Food, Stir It Up, High Tide, Peskys, etc..” Rich also had some suggestions for good St. Augustine local bands. “Alligator, Verde, Environmental Youth Crunch, Sister, Ivory Intentions, Solid Pony, Tubers, Terri Gamble, and Lightning Paw.” Look for shows by Tubers, Verde and Solid Pony in late July (7/24 and 7/27) after Tubers return from Europe at some place called Freedom Manor. Contact them directly at myspace.com/tubers or go to bakeryoutletrecords.com Wobbly Toms for more information about this scene. The band Bernard represents another indie scene in St. Augustine. Last year Bernard was on the cusp of signing a record deal that would put their music out all over the country, but then that label crumbled and Bernard followed suit, taking their almost emo art-rock outfit with it, because they split up at about old town rock and roll the same time. From the debris of Bernard, some of the skilled musicians playing in the band got together and formed A Slight by jon bosworth a look at st. augustine’s live music scene Breeze. Although they are more frequently seen in Jacksonville these days than St. Augustine, this post-rock outfit plays alter- St. Augustine has always cultivated a unique music scene that never seemed too anxious to get involved nately haunting and harrowing instrumental music. Find some of with Jacksonville. The first hardcore or screamo act I ever heard out of St. Augustine was The South. Their their songs at myspace.com/aslightbreeze, but don’t let that rep- debut album Chomp! Chomp! Chomp! was energetic, cathartic, angry, and one of the first local representations resent them. Their live show is outstanding and far more complex of the anti-consumerist/anti-capitalist, activist screamo band movement I had heard outside of the ever-popu- than those recordings. Look for their new album soon. lar Jacksonville band Twelve Hour Turn. Chomp! Chomp! Chomp! was released and distributed through Dead Finally I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Wobbly Tank Distro, a label and online store that is affiliated with Inertia Records in 5 Points. Toms. This St. Augustine staple is unlike any of the bands men- Twelve Hour Turn was on the No Idea label out of Gainesville. They toured the country and the world fairly tioned in this article. These Flagler graduates decided to stick

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 17 around St. Augustine to start families and party the way only this party band knows how. They currently have one of the strongest local followings in town, according to Kris at Loose Screws. Instead of the edgy indie rock of bands such as Bernard and the Bakery Outlet crew, the Wobbly Toms feature banjo and have more of an Irish-almost-bluegrass feel. They don’t have any albums out that I could locate, but they have some live recordings at myspace.com/wobblytoms. When you are looking for an enormous jam band with an acoustic, early-90s alt-rock vibe accented by banjo, flute, and traditional Irish instrumentation, then The Wobbly Toms may be just the thing you came to the Old City for. Regardless of which sorts of music you are willing to travel into St. Augustine to hear, you can probably find something that will suit. Plenty of places in the historic downtown feature great live music, cover bands, and jazz. For some newer flavors check out the new Fusion on US1, just North of town, or head out to St. Augustine Beach and catch a show at Café 11. If you’re lucky, maybe there will be a spectacular show at The Alcazar, or The Fraternal Order of the Oriole will let you come in to listen to the band. Hell, even if you don’t find a band, there is plenty of cool stuff to take in in St. Augustine, so just park and walk around. what’s new? what’s happening now? where to go to find out. The St. John’s Cultural Council has its finger on the pulse of St. Augustine. That’s why, if you want the skinny on events that are coming up on the weekend (or the day) you’ll be visiting St. Augustine, there’s no better place to go than the new magnum tattoo Cultural Council’s Kiosk located inside the art for your body, art for the walls by erin thursby Visitor’s Center. Looking for a little theatre to go to? The Council’s got the info. Want One great resource you’ll find all around the city is the “Best of St. Augustine Map.” This map to know about upcoming musical acts, interesting seminars, art shows, festivals or even fashion clearly shows where many of the St. Augustine attractions are located. New to the map is Magnum shows? The Council’s got you covered there as well. The newly remodeled Visitor’s Information Tattoo, on the corner of Ponce De Leon and West King Street, which opened in 2006. Magnum is just Center is located at 10 Castillo Drive. For more information about the Cultural Events Kiosk at the around the corner from the large Discovery Yoga Studio. Visitors Information Center, please contact the St. Johns Cultural Council at 904-826-4116. Danielle DeMuro, who has worked in body art since ’99, decided that St. Augustine was the place - BY ERIN THURSBY for her, after working at Crazy Philadelphia Eddie and Troy Timpel. She opened Magnum Tattoo and has since been fairly busy. The studio-style tattoo parlor has a bright and comfortable atmosphere, with a statue of Buddha, fresh flowers and a candle adorning one of the countertops. DeMuro seems to have worked to maintain an atmosphere of alt-Zen with an edge. More than that, she wants her business to be a place where art flourishes in a friendly atmosphere. “We hold art openings during the Friday art walks…” says DeMuro “It gets pretty crazy… [Lately] I’ve been displaying my own art, alternating with Kevin Newcomb.” Newcomb’s series Flowers and Knives currently adorns her walls. If you’d like a taste of her art, you might want to think about offering yourself up as a canvas. The majority of her work is in custom tattoos, though she does offer permanent make-up, tattoo cover-ups and re-constructive tattoos. She hopes to do more work with those who might want areola tattoos, post mastectomy. She tries to donate one of these procedures on a regular basis, for those in need. If you’re into body art, or just into art, you might want to stop on by. Call (904) 827-1500 for hours and info. the jester’s court what’s your flavor of entertainment? by erin thursby

One of the newest clubs on the scene is Jester’s Court, which opened just six months ago. Though the venue is primarily a comedy club, it’s also a music venue, bar and restaurant. Even though it’s located on San Marco Avenue in an area laden with tourists, most of their customers seem to be local residents. On Thursday nights they hold “Last Comic Survivor,” which they’ll be doing through June. After the show they have live music and a DJ. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, they kick off a show 8:30 pm. On Tuesday and Wednesday, you can check out the dueling pianos, for a cover charge of $12. From 4 pm - 8 pm musicians often perform acoustic sessions on the back patio. Special events include CD release parties, cover bands and original musical performances. There really seems to be something for every entertainment taste. On weekends, Magician Bill McCrea performs both on stage and from table to table. The Jester’s Court is also a full-service restaurant and bar. Chef Ralph Gearhart III, a graduate of Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, serves up classic cuisine, as well as fusion. They’re open by 11:30 am every day except Monday. For more info, call (904) 461-8843 or go online at jesterscourtcomedyclub.com.

18 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper the newest art in the oldest part: the galleries of st. augustine by donald dusinberre

Without a doubt, St. Augustine is densely peppered with art galleries. As the oldest city this side of the Atlantic, they can boast more years of history to tap into for inspiration, and the ghosts of the past will always fill every breath. It’s hard to explore the future, even for artists. Physiologically speaking, no one can create work that explicitly represents the future, because every bit of knowledge ever stored is already history. Even Leonardo, renowned for his futuristic sketches of helicopters, submarines and sno-cone machines, could essentially only draw from what knowledge that was already revealed, whether by nature or contemporaries. In other words, all art is past tense, and St. Augustine is the perfect place to mine the past for subject matter and enlightenment. I went to St. Augustine in search of the newest, most unique art. There are plenty of galleries peddling seascapes and Thomas Kincade rip-offs, but I was looking for the galleries housing the freshest ideas. You know, just a little old. These are a couple of great ones I discovered:

Butterfield Garage – 137 King Street Just north of the tourist traps on and around King Street, Butterfield Garage is a sizeable space currently displaying the work of quite a few impressive artists. Ranging from abstract paintings to charcoal figure draw- ings, this gallery suits a wide range of patrons and wallets. Some of my favorite artists currently in the Garage are Stephanie Shieldhouse and Angelika S. Luginbuhl.

Energy Lab Art Gallery – 137A King Street Right next door to Butterfield Garage is the Energy Lab. Founded in 2001, this co-op art gallery displays work exclusively from local artists. These artists also work to care for the gallery, which is divided into many separate rooms, much like an indoor mall. Collectively, the Lab exhibits a huge array of artwork, including woodcarvings, paintings, photographs, and reverse glass paintings. With a different artist featured each month, the Energy Lab is an ideal place to check the pulse of St. Augustine’s art scene. A few notable artists currently on display in the Energy Lab are Nikole Trouble Zelneronok and David Krafcik.

The Gallery at Screen Arts The hippest of all the galleries in town, the Gallery at Screen Arts boasts a clean, modern, colorful space displaying professional artists from all over the country as well as right here in North Florida. Their displays usually change on a monthly basis, so check in often to catch the newest artwork. Not only does the Gallery at Screen Arts display art, they also create art events with a purpose. For instance, October will bring us Keep a Breast, a fundraiser to promote cancer awareness. They will be casting female torsos and distributing them to artists for their distinct decorative touch. The casts will then be sold at auction, with the proceeds going toward cancer awareness. Some big names in art and entertainment will be participating, like Kim Gordon (Sonic Youth), Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo, Rugrats) and Derek Hess. Check out keep-a-breast.org for more information.

Here are some (but certainly not all) of the other galleries in St. Augustine that may be displaying your new favorite work of art. No matter what your taste in art, you’ll definitely find something somewhere in St. Augus- tine. Aviles Street Gallery – 11C Aviles Street Rachel Thompson Gallery – 139 King Street Mullet Beach Gallery – 51 Cordova Street 57 Treasury – 144-1 King Street Catch 22 Gallery – 5 Cordova Street Gurell Galleries – 142B King Street Carrera Gallery – 9 Carrera Street St. Augustine Art Association - 22 Marine Street Sydney McKenna Gallery – 5 Inlet Place Absolute Americana – 77 Bridge Street Tripp Harrison Gallery – 22 Cathedral Place

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 19 cafe eleven South Beach Grill’s new dining in the old city salmon puff sashimi tuna stack

Avilés 32 Avendia Menedez (904) 829-2277 Though a relatively young establishment, the owners have borrowed a bit of history by nam- ing the restaurant after Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, founder of St. Augustine, Spanish admi- ral and pirate hunter. He was a man of means who certainly would be at home at his swanky namesake. House specialty is a Hunan whole Crispy Fish, basted with a sweet and sour glaze and served over crab whipped potatoes and Swiss chard. Located inside the Hilton along the Matanzas, Aviles has quickly established itself in St. Augustine’s fine dining circuit. easy listening duet) engaged their ears while the Collage 60 Hypolita Street (904) 829-0055 it doesn’t taste like sand and salt restaurants tickled their taste buds. La Parisienne has new owners, a new a name But it wasn’t just about food and entertainment. and a new concept. It’s now Collage and it St. Augustine’s Taste of the Beach A portion of the proceeds from the event have gone features the best in global cuisine, specializing to support Betty Griffin House, which serves victims of Domestic and Sexual Abuse in St. Johns County. in local seafood. Though they’ve changed a lot, by Erin thursby [email protected] They provide emergency shelter to abused women, they’ve worked to preserve the cozy atmosphere It seems like the First Coast is holding more since they won for best dessert, was served up by men and their children. Their support services in- and stellar service that St. Augustine diners and more worthy culinary events. Case in point is Amici. Their profiteroli, which are basically chocolate clude a 24-hour crisis hotline, individual and group have come to expect from La Parisienne. this past weekend’s Taste of the Beach in St. Augus- chocolate cream puffs, were simultaneously rich and counseling, community education, and civil legal tine, held at the St. Augustine Beach Pavilion. airy. representation. Choosing a restaurant can be a dizzying Seafood seemed to be popular favorite for Georgie’s Diner 100 Malaga Street (904) proposition, since St. Augustine and Jacksonville entrées. My top picks in the entrée category were The winners of this year’s Taste of the Beach in- 819-9006 It used to be Holly’s Diner, but have so much to offer. I absolutely love these “Taste Café 11’s lovely salmon dish and South Beach Grill’s cluded: has been converted by local restaurant owner of…” events, because it gives me the opportunity sashimi tuna stack, served on a crisp wonton with a Best Appetizer, 1st place- Sunset Grille, 2nd place- George Chryssaidis, who also owns the Athena to sample food from a cadre of different restaurants. sweet Thai glaze. Café 11 had the best presentation Beef O’Brady’s, 3rd place- Café 11. st nd Greek Restaurant. They serve all the usual diner Why commit to a full meal when you can experience out of all the attending restaurants in their dessert Best Entrée, 1 place- South Beach Grill, 2 place- a sampling of the food at one of these events? and entree, an often difficult feat at a buffet style Panama Hatties, and 3rd place- Jack’s BBQ. fare, with a few Greek specialties. This particular event worked, not with an en- event. It must have been a tough choice for the Best Dessert, 1st place- Amici’s Italian Restaurant, trance fee, but with taste tickets. Each ticket was a judges, but it was South Beach Grill that took home 2nd place- Café 11, and 3rd place- Pizza Garden & JP Henley’s 10 Marine Street(904) 829- dollar and the samplings ranged in price from one the Taste of the Beach Plate Award for Best Entrée. Pastabilities. 3337 Mainly a neighborhood pub, they serve ticket to four. Diners had the option to spend as little The lucky (and possibly overfull) celebrity judg- Judge’s choice went to 1st place- Purple Olive, 2nd rd sandwiches, salads and wraps. Build your own or as much as they wanted. The event was specific es got to sample every single item. Since the event place- South Beach Grille, and 3 place- Panama to the St. Augustine beaches, so it was a great culi- went from noon to 6 pm, I’m guessing they paced Hatties. cheese and fruit platter to go along with one of nary geographical sampling of the area. themselves. The five celebrity judges, included Art People’s Choice 1st place- FA Café, 2nd place- Man- the 100 champagne and wine selections. Beer I only had 15 taste tickets, so I couldn’t try it May (SJSO), Troy Blevins (Director of Parks and go Mangos, and 3rd place- Sunset Grille. drinkers can choose from 50 international beers all. Even if I had been able to buy a hundred, I would Recreation), Tom Manuel (County Commissioner), Participating Restaurants included: on tap or 100 bottled beers. With a custom have been too full to enjoy every selection. Fifteen Inge Erikson (President of the St. Augustine Jazz Pizza Garden & Pastabilities, Mango Mangos; Café built cellar room and a bay front view, it’s the restaurants participated and each offered up two or Society) and the Beach’s Mayor, Ed George. Eleven; Panama Hatties’; Jack’s BBQ; Napoli Pizza; three selections in one of three categories: entrée, While the judges and the patrons were sam- Amici’s Italian Restaurant; Sunset Grille; The Beach- newest nightlife stop for locals. appetizer and my personal favorite—dessert. pling what St. Augustine Beach has to offer, Joe comber Restaurant; South Beach Grill; Zhanra’s; My favorite dessert, and the judge’s favorite, Witiaz & Friends (a jazz combo) and Deaux Oh (an Ambiance Catering; FA Café and Beef O’Bradys La Pentola 58 Charlotte Street (904) 824- 3282 Beautiful presentation and “cuisine of the sun” makes this bistro a top pick for diners in St. Augustine. Chef Jorge Talavera, who hails from Guadalajara, specializes in creating dishes inspired by cuisine from sunny regions such as the Mediterranean and Latin America, using local seafood, meats and organic produce.

McKnight’s Little Ireland 113 Anastasia Boulevard (904) 829-0870 A marriage of Irish pub fare and theatre, this restaurant features live music, live theatre and short films. They’re always open for lunch dinner and brunch, but you’ll want to call to find out about scheduled performances.

Opus 39 39 Cordova Street (904) 824- 0402 Don’t just come here for a bite to eat, come here for a culinary adventure. Featuring a rotating gallery of fine art on the walls and an extensive selection of more than 400 of the 4

20 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Raintree in 1980 and began the process of renovation finest, rare wines, this restaurant crafts their and restoration. After nearly a year, they opened the restaurant. Since that time, the Raintree has received menu every day according to the best quality international accolades for its food and ambiance. ingredients available on that day. Make your We entered the Raintree through the garden reservation now and don’t just come to eat, gates, passing a koi pond and an outdoor patio dining come to dine. area. From our first steps into the garden, it was easy to tell why the Raintree is often a stop for those with romance on their minds. The Palm Café & Bakery 135 George The Raintree is certainly large enough to ac- Street (904) 825-4065 This upscale casual commodate more than one special event or wedding, restaurant is located on a pedestrian-only with several seating areas to choose from. We were street. With outdoor dining and a relaxing in- seated in a kind of atrium area, with a view of the door area, Chef Aaron Miles, a graduate of Le gardens. As to libations and spirits, the Raintree has quite Cordon Bleu, has made this a great St. Augus- the selection of wines and they’ve got a full bar. A tine eatery since he opened the doors in 2005. glance at the menu revealed that they offer all the It’s open mainly for breakfast and lunch, but standard high-end choices found in American and they also have a seasonal dinner menu on Fri- Continental restaurants. While the menu isn’t adven- days and Saturdays. Wednesday evenings they turous, the food is well prepared, using fresh and fine ingredients. often open for wine tastings; call for details. One thing that might get your attention is that gratuity is automatically added to your bill, as is stan- Sea Oats Café 1075 A1A Beach Boulevard dard in Europe. This saves you the trouble of doing (904) 471-7350 Under new ownership since the math after one too many glasses of wine. A stan- September of 2006, this is a local stop for dard 15% is added to your bill if you have one check. pancakes, breakfast, sandwiches and milk- old city elegance Separate bills require a 17% charge to your server. If you tend to tip more generously, don’t worry, it’s per- shakes. They close at 3 pm Monday-Saturday fectly acceptable to leave a little extra for your server. and by 1 pm on Sundays. The Raintree restaurant review Even if you pay by credit card, you can add to their tip. Just because tips are primarily automatic doesn’t Zhanras 108 Anastasia Boulevard (904) by Erin thursby [email protected] mean that the service suffers. On the contrary, we found the Raintree to have some of the best wait staff 823-3367 This chic new tapas restaurant on I must say, if you’re going to eat in St. Augus- Colonial times the land that the house stood on was in the First Coast area. Anastasia island has a post-modern design, a tine, make every meal special. The last thing you want kept empty for defense purposes. It became part of Unless you’re early enough for a dinner special, rotating gallery of contemporary art provided to do is sit down at some bar with sub-par food when the Hernandez Homestead, where oranges were culti- most of the entrée items run from about $20-30. Each by local artists, and an attached cigar and there’s a world of fine cuisine in a historical setting, vated. The land was purchased by a Confederate war item is meticulously prepared and servers are very martini bar. It is a great place to meet up with just waiting to be served to you on fine linens. Not veteran Bernard Masters. He had five daughters and knowledgeable about the menu. I enjoyed a beef Wel- that there aren’t hole-in-the-wall joints worth haunt- he made sure that each of them had a house once lington, a great cut of filet surrounded by a puff pastry friends and share appetizers while you enjoy ing, but there are some really fine establishments in they were old enough to be married. The Raintree was with a savory Bordelaise sauce. The Wellington is a the casual-cool elegance of their facility. They St. Augustine. one of the five. It went to Hattie Masters after she specialty at the Raintree and it’s always on the menu. also have a full bar. Visit zhanras.com for a As part of an evening out to the Limelight The- married A.J. Collins in 1897. Mr. Collins served as a The Raintree is also known for its dessert deca- peek at their menu. atre, my husband and I opted to eat at the Raintree member of the city Board of Aldermen and was also dence. If you would like a taste of the Raintree el- Restaurant. We parked at the Limelight (no problem in the dry goods business. egance, but you don’t have the budget for a full meal, finding parking, it was hours before the show) and Eighty-two years later, in 1979, the MacDonald you can just stop into their cocktail room for dessert. Café 11 501 A1A Beach Boulevard (904) simply walked the two or three short blocks to the family, consisting of father and mother, Tristan and Desserts range from about $5-9, so you won’t be 460-9311 This hipster hangout has delicious Raintree. Alex, son Gaere, and daughter, Lorna, left England in breaking the bank. I indulged in their Evil Triple Choco- casual foods, draft beer, a selection of house Like many restaurants in St. Augustine, the their 45-foot yacht, Intsholo III, bound for the U.S.A. late Cake, offsetting the sweet decadence with a shot wines, coffee drinks (including espresso Raintree has historical charm. It was constructed just Frustrated by high taxes in Europe, they sought to of espresso. If you’re into Victorian elegance to go drinks) and they serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, after the Civil War and was part of a building boom make a life for themselves here in Florida. They settled with an elegant meal or simply a dessert, the Raintree that gives St. Augustine its Victorian sensibility. In in St. Augustine, bought what is now known as the is the place for you. and late night. They are also one of the best live music venues in St. Augustine, so arrange to eat here when there is a great show. cafee- leven.com

Casa Maya 17 Hypolita Street (904) 823- 1739 This authentic Mayan restaurant has an impressive selection of exotic meals that com- bine South American and European influences. All of their food is made from organic ingredients, and even their water and iced tea has a delicious and unique twist to it. Enjoy their intimate outdoor seating, dine inside, or grab something on the go. This restaurant is quickly becoming a St. Augustine classic.

Son of a Fish 8 Aviles Street (904) 829- 3992 This new eatery on Aviles Street serves a mean fish taco and they have beer. It is casual and in the heart of downtown.

Kozmic Bluz 48 Spanish St (904) 825- 4805 Enjoy a great slice of pizza for a reason- able price and suck down some beers in their

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 21 comfortable patio. This is one of the most rea- JP Henley’s sonably priced places in town and their pizza Address or Directions: On Menendez between is better than many of the new pizza joints in pub crawling the ancient A1A Aleworks and OP Whites. St. Augustine. Type of Place: Restaurant, beer and wine bar. Serving: Featuring 50 beers on tap, more than 100 Present Moment Café 224 West King by the eu professional drinkers streets bottled beers, 25 wines on tap, fine wines, champagne, Street (904) 827-4499 This raw foods res- cigars, and a full menu. taurant features organic, vegetarian cuisine. Few things are harder to find in St. Augustine than new bars that people know about. Everyone Atmosphere: This spacious bar has gorgeous They specialize in preparing live, unprocessed can direct you to Trade Winds or the St. George Street Tavern, and indeed those are the favorite wooden fixtures, fabric-covered chairs and plenty of cuisine. Their organic vegetables and produce places of the people that have been drinking this town for the longest, but the EU Professional tables. Enjoy the bar area or have a seat in the cham- are locally grown and they have some truly Drinkers were on the lookout for something new, and walking the oldest streets in America, we did pagne room. delicious dishes such as a Kale Avocado Salad indeed find some great new places. Amenities: Featuring a small smoking patio, a selec- or Portabello Croquettes. thepresentmoment- tion of cigars (make sure its not stale before you buy it) cafe.com Tini Martini and plenty of flat screen televisions. Address or Directions: Inside the Casablanca on San Drink Specials: Ask what their $3 pints are that day, St. Augustine Marco Boulevard, across from the Bridge of Lions wine tastings on Wednesdays from 6–10 and highlight a Classic Picks Type of Place: Martini Bar selection of imported wines. Serving: Shelf and call liquor drinks, bottled beer, and a selec- I didn’t expect much from this spacious bar with a yan- Creekside Dinery 160 Nix Boatyard tion of wines. kee, wooden, classic tavern look. They have a “cellar,” Road (off US-1 South) (904) 829-6113 It’s Atmosphere: An intimate, elegant little bar that could easily be which is actually just a cooler, separated room. One that the manager (Lauren) called a “champagne room.” pure North Florida fare at this classic St. referred to as “charming.” They even have a mini grand piano. Amenities: Featuring a player piano and live music on Thurs- To her credit, there are cases displaying wines and Augustine dining destination. The place is a Champagne, but it is not like a champagne room at your kind of upscale fish camp, located in an old, days, usually jazz. local show bar. They also have a pressurized system of whitewashed Southern-style house, complete Drink Specials: Every one is crafted specially, with love by wines on tap, which is especially unusual. Since I’ve with a white picket fence and a rose garden. Katlyn. never actually had a Pilsner Urquell on tap, I thought the bright, refreshing flavor of it was indicative of the brand. They serve the Low Country cuisine the area The Casablanca Inn is a well known small hotel in the Old City, but It was so delicious it shocked me. When I tried another is known for, with special emphasis on plank Tini Martini is a new addition to the Inn, it’s been here for less than brand, Smithwick’s, which I have had on tap before, it cooking. Baking fish, chicken and steak on a a year but it has already co-opted all of the class of the old city. gave me the same surprise. This beer is delicious! Ap- The freshest aspect to this swanky miniature bar is the sassy service of the bartender Katlyn, she isn’t the usual 1” thick oak plank, which seals in the juices, parently, according to the owner who I chatted with on stodgy old whisky that works a hotel bar. Decorated sparingly with some ornately framed Americana folk art and a technique that conveys an understated wood the smoking patio, most draft beer is carbonated with some swinging jazz piped in, the Tini Martini maintains the high-end tourist schtick, makes a mean martini, and some percentage of benzene, but the beer at Henley’s flavor to the meat. Creekside also offers a wide is made cozy by the charisma of the staff. –Johnny St. Thomas is benzene-free, meaning no draft beer headaches and assortment of fresh local seafood, distinctive a vastly reduced hangover effect. They also have glass appetizers, desserts and a full bar. Ann O’Malleys Pub beer lines, so the beer is never bitter from invisible buildup. So when you want a truly superior beer, check Cortessés Bistro and Flamingo Address or Directions: 23 Orange Street in St Augustine out JP Henley’s. –Johnny St. Thomas Room 172 San Marco Avenue (904) 825- Type of Place: Irish Pub and Restaurant 6775 For romantic dining and nightly live Serving: Good selection of Import and domestic Drafts with even more bottle selections The Fraternal Order of the music, you might want to go to Cortessés. Atmosphere: Quaint and authentic. No smoking. Oriole Serving fine international cuisine, they’ve been Amenities: First Irish pub to open up in North East Florida. Beautiful historic building with a huge front porch that voted the Most Romantic Restaurant by Jack- hosts the most amazing breeze I’ve felt in years. Address or Directions: 61 Spanish Street, sonville Magazine and are a winner of “A Taste Drink Specials: One dollar mugs from 5 to 7 pm. behind the Corner of Hypolita Street Type of Place: Bar of St. Augustine.” O’Malleys has that comfortable environment an authentic pub should be required to have. If I were a local it would be Serving: UNKOWN the place I would frequent most. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner as she poured me a glass of the building’s Fusion Point 237 San Marco Avenue (904) history. With a couple of permanent “visitors,” the stories pile in as a few of the employees chime in with their own Atmosphere: Smoke-drenched and littered with 823-1444 For sushi and a fusion blend of Far ghost stories. During some general repairs, the discovery of two graves were found underneath the building which a haphazard array of thrift store furniture. Eastern dishes, head to Fusion Point, the best contributes to the random tomfoolery that tends to happen unexplainably. Their menu is equipped with yummy eats Amenities: Fusball ranging from eleven sandwich choices, five salads and a soup of the day, all affordably priced around six bucks. established sushi joint in St. Augustine. Chef When I asked her how long the place had been around, her thick Irish accent sung out, “Oh, I’d have to count the The Fraternal Order of the Oriole is a private club. Tai specializes in interesting new blends of lines in my face.” which translates to 15 years. I highly recommend everyone to stop in whenever you find yourself Not the swanky sort of club you think of as being flavors and textures that have made his restau- in St. Augustine. –Harvey Wallbanger “members only,” by any stretch of the imagina- rant well respected in the area. Voted the Best tion, but a private club none-the-less. To become a member is only $10 per year, but you have to be Ethnic Restaurant in the St. Augustine Record invited by a current member. Sometimes they will for several years by the locals, it’s located just allow the general public in for a special concert or north of the Florida School for the blind. Open live music, but generally only card-carrying St. Au- for dinner from 5-10 daily. gustine hipsters need apply. The Flagler students and bedhead punks sit on the rickety old front porch in ironic clothing, uncertain facial hair, and Gypsy Cab Company 828 Anastasia a condescending glance, as indie rockers are wont Boulevard (904) 824-8244 For the locals, to do, and oddly reflected the concept of youth this is the best known restaurant in town. Si- in such an old city. Like old rednecks perched in multaneously trendy and classic, Gypsy Cab rocking chairs on a hot weekday afternoon, only Company has won too many local awards to they had man-purses and skater shoes. I snuck in and snapped a few pics of the dingy headquarters, mention here. There’s something for everybody which looks like it hasn’t gotten much attention on their diverse menu, whether you’re a steak since back when Backstreets occupied the build- lover or a vegetarian. ing. If you aren’t local, good luck getting in. Once you are in, will you really want to stay? –Johnny St. Thomas

22 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper live music shows calendar THURSDAY, MAY 24 Open Mic w/Colleen Murphy Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) Steve Plays Too Loud London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) Concert in the Plaza-Falling Bones Plaza, St. Augustine The Committee Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Retardobot Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Chuck Nash My Place, Jax (737-5299) Dana Salmela House of Jam, Mandarin (262-3377) Songwriters Circle European Street, Jax (399-1740) S.K.I.P TSI, Jax (635-3024) Matt Stills Sneakers, Jax Beach Louder Than eleven Time Out Sports Grille, Jax Goliath 95 Cordova, St. Augustine small town fun, blues Rick Arcusa Band Ragtime, Jax Beach (241-7877) Out of Hand Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) Mariachi Guadalajara Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) & seafood Karl W. Davis Wicked Davies, Fernandina Beach David Milam Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove Springs Palatka Blue Crab Festival Blistur Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) Jam Session w/El Toro Loco Pub Ragusa, Jax (443- 7888) by Erin thursby [email protected] Matt Collins Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra WHAT: The Blue Crab Festival Wes Cobb Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) WHEN: Friday night- Monday afternoon where to stay Time2Swing Players Club, Ponte Vedra WHERE: Downtown Palatka Because it’s only about an hour away from Kids Like Us Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) Jacksonville, you can make a day trip to Palatka or Looking for a Memorial Day Weekend road you can stay there for the night and make a week- Big Engine Box Seats, Jax (908-7328) trip? Take a drive to Palatka for the annual Blue Crab end of it. Although the population is just over ten Cornerstone The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) Festival. With music, a judged art show and a leg- thousand, tourism is important to the little town. endary seafood cook-off, this fest should deliver on Hollyweird, Red White & Crue Freebird Live, Jax Palatka’s just 40 minutes away from St. Augustine family fun. The fest begins on Friday night and goes Beach (246-2473) and was a pivotal geographical point prior to the Civil on through Monday. War. There are a few bed and breakfasts you can Ron Rodriguez Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Featured headliners at the fest include Eric stay at, such as The Azalea House (386) 325-4547, Out of Hand Lynch’s Irish Pub, Jax Beach (249-5181) Lindell and Walter Trout & the Radicals. Rising in which was built in 1878 and is only two blocks from popularity and touring the country, Eric Lindell has Little Green Men West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) the river. become known for his rockin’ roots infusion of Freeze Frame Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) blues, swamp pop, reggae rock and kickin’ grooves. Mr. Natural Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198) Walter Trout’s music has been around for about blue crab fest schedule thirty-five years, but that doesn’t stop Trout from Friday May 25th De Lions of Jah Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) continually changing and growing within his music. 5 pm Fest Opens While Walter Trout & the Radicals might ostensibly 6-9 pm Local Schools entertain with dance, THURSAY-SUNDAY, MAY 24-27 be blues based, they pull from all sorts of musical jazz & more traditions. The group just recently returned from 9:30- midnight The Swinging Medallions Sun Dog A1A Aleworks, St. Augustine (829-2977) India, where they wowed their Indian fans with their th musical stylings. Saturday May 26 THURSDAY-MONDAY, MAY 24-28 My entertainment pick for the fest is Bill Whar- 10 am Seafood Cook-off begins ton, aka the “Sauce Boss,” if only for the eccentricity noon-2 pm Aerial Tribe Palatka Blue Crab Festival-Walter Trout, Swingin’ of his act. This dude combines blues and cooking 2:30- 5 pm Out of Hand Medallions, Downtown, Palatka 5:30-7 pm Eric Lindell onstage. A great combination, and really pretty apt. Sauce Boss, Greg Baril, Eric Lindell, The Subdudes + What’s the blues without gumbo to go with it? As 7:30-9:15 pm Deep Blue Wharton sings and plays his guitar, a large pot of the 9:45- 11:30 pm The Subdues stuff simmers. He plays in a chef’s hat and passes Sunday May 27th FRIDAY, MAY 25 out the finished product to the crowd. Jimmy Buffet 1:30-3 pm Bill Wharton aka the Sauce Boss Blistur The Landing, Jax even wrote a song about him, entitled ‘I Will Play for 3:30-5 pm Greg Baril Battle of the Bands Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) Gumbo.’ The gumbo is apparently first rate, as Bill 5:30- 7 pm Duwayne Burnside & The Missis “Sauce Boss” Wharton has been featured in Gour- sippi Mafia Gypsy Highway Duo Copelands, Jax met Magazine. 7:30-9 pm Walter Trout & The Radicals Danka Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884) 9:30-11 pm Last Waltz Ensemble getting there Rip tide w/Brian Turner Bogey Grille, Ponte Vedra Monday May 28th (285-5524) Take I-95 South to Route 207 and follow it all 10 am Memorial Day Parade (St John’s Av Together At Last Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) the way into Downtown Palatka, or take Hwy 17 enue) FunkTion Latitudes Café, Jax Beach South to Downtown Palatka. Travel Time: about an 11 am Memorial Day Ceremony (Ampitheatre) hour and 20 minutes 12-4 pm Jack Mosley Band

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 23 Roots Music Fest-Eric Lindell Mojo’s Kitchen, Jax Beach (247-6636) Wormzilla Backstreets, St. Augustine authentic blues and One Eighty Box Seats, Jax (908-7328) Mr. Mean Jeans Endo Exo, Jax (396-7733) Little Green Men Brewsters, Jax (223-9850) barbecue Dana Salmela Cross Creek, Mandarin Box 543 Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) Johnny Flood Aromas, Jax (928-0515) JW Gilmore at Gypsy Cab Lost Kaos Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) Epicourse Yesterday’s, Jax (387-0502) Company in St. Augustine Jager Dave On the Rocks, Jax (685-5268) Music in the Courtyard-Debra Rider 200 First St., by Rick grant [email protected] Neptune Beach Our vivacious veteran staff member, Joan Gal- the same number of years, JW Str8 Up West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) lagher, told me that the Gypsy Cab Co. in St. Augus- has played harp and sung the Homesteaders, Heavenly Noise, Florida Theatre, Jax tine was featuring blues and barbecue every Sunday blues. He’s passionate about Crystal Stafford, Goliath from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm and asked if I would be playing old dirty blues that is interested in going down to cover this event. not fused with modern influ- The Subliminator TSI, Jax (635-3024) Yes, blues and barbecue go together like peanut but- ences. Yankee Slickers Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park ter and jelly, beer and nuts, or Paris Hilton and incar- For blues aficionados, JW (269-4198) ceration. So, I blitzed down there to catch JW wail can be heard on Blue Beat’s CD Joint Committee Ocean 60, Atlantic Beach (247-0060) on harmonica with his band of experienced players Blues from the Swamp by Tabby showcasing Coop Cooper on bass, Keith Blake on Thomas. JW has a gritty blues voice that captures Baker Act Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829-8333) lead guitar, and Phil Reed on drums. It’s a natural the blues mood perfectly. His presentation is remi- Veteran bassist Coop has been playing since Nate Holley Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) lure to enjoy Gypsy Cab Co.’s delicious barbecue niscent of Muddy Waters, in that he jokes with the he plugged in his first bass and learned licks off the Dave Massey Reefers, Jax and blues on a day trip to St. Augustine on a sunny audience and is charismatic on stage. JW’s brand first ZZ Top album. Since then, Coop has performed Sunday afternoon. of blues is unvarnished by rock influences, staying many diverse styles including jazz, rock, soul, world Out of Hand Players Grille, Orange Park JW and the Blues Authority are an authentic close to the blues of yesteryear. Keith Blake doesn’t music and traditional American roots music. When Dave Massey Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) Mississippi Delta blues band that delivers its blues use effects pedals and plays with a clean sound with Coop had hair, he was the original bassist for Jack- Mr. Natural Tailgaters, Green Cove Springs (529-1976) straight up with no chaser. JW and the band mem- his large semi-hollow body guitar. Coop on bass and sonville’s seminal 1980s experimental new wave bers live in St. Augustine but play around the North Phil Reed on guitar lay down an infectious groove bands The Reacterz and The Great Invisibles, which Matt Collins Pauly’s Pizza, Jax (727-9101) Florida region. As his day-job, JW has been a master that sets the scene with toe-tapping rhythm. featured Arvid Smith on guitar and effects. Arvid is baker for Publix for the last thirty years. For about Since JW started playing in St. Augustine, now with Tammerlin with his wife Lee Hunter. Coop FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MAY 25-26 he’s been backed by a variety of musicians. In the doubles as a sound engineer and manager for the early days, when he was struggling to get the band group. Red River Band Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine together, members would come and go. He joked, Drummer Phil Reed brings his own brand of (829-9336) “the marquee should read, ‘JW Gilmore and to be an- West Coast blues/funk to the Blues Authority. Phil Lickin’ Lassie Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) nounced’ or as commonly abbreviated, TBA”. As JW spent 20 years in San Francisco Bay Area as a first- ‘3’ Square One, Jax (306-9004) found the players who would stick around, the name call session drummer and as an on-demand live JW Gilmore and the Blues Authority stuck, which, player. Phil is one of the most respected drummers Ruckus Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162) coincidently, is also abbreviated “TBA.” playing on the East Coast. Gary Campbell OC White’s, St. Augustine (824-0808) Now, JW’s band is a stable entity and they play As a unit, JW & TBA kick butt. The Blues & Skytrain New Neighborhood Tavern, Jax (721-5087) regularly. Keith Black is an advanced guitarist who Barbecue Sunday afternoon is going strong at the adds the authentic orchestration to the band with his Gypsy Cab Co. It’s worth the trip down to the oldest Johnny Flood Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) original jazz influenced style. His comping fits well city for JW and barbecue bash from 2:30 to 5:30 Shawn Lightfoot The Grape, Jax (642-7111) with JW’s soulful and bluesy harmonica style. pm. Wild Card Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) Spektra Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Dot Wilder Jazz Trio Wicked Davies, Fernandina Beach Boogie Freaks Ragtime Tavern, Atlantic Beach (241-7877) Roger That Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) Diane Ward Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) Pili Pili Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940)

SATURDAY, MAY 26 Spring Music Fest-Jim Belushi Metro Park, Jax Kenhe The Tree Steakhouse, Atlantic Beach (241-5600) Habitual Offender Brewsters, Jax (223-9850) Roots Music Fest-Greg Baril Mojo’s Kitchen, Jax Beach (247-6636) RTX Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Spektra Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Blistur CD Pre Release Party Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) Gutterboy Rivers Edge, Fernandina Beach Sonoma Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) Helioseye Yesterday’s, Jax (387-0502)

24 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper had many minor hits, while other performers made Big Engine Rivers Edge, Fernandina Beach hits out of his songs. Charlie continued to record on various labels through the 1990s. Matt Still Sneakers/Baymeadows, Jax When I asked Charlie what made him jump Ace Winn MVP’s, Jax back into the game after a long hiatus, he made it Metalfest Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829-8333) clear to me that he never retired or quit. “I finally found a record company that had dis- Robby Schenck Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) tribution so that I could go out and play some dates Strings of Fire Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) to promote the product and know that the album was Payton Page Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) available nationally at anywhere records were sold. But I continue to play as many gigs as I want. From The Lee Boys Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) 2000 to just before I released the album, I had cut Mike Shakelford The Homestead, Jax Beach (249-9660) back a bit, and it has been ten years since I released an album, but I’ve always been working as a per- The Goldmembers Pizza Garden, St. Augustine forming artist.” Grabbag Kountry Tavern, Jax “We are playing St. Augustine, Orlando, and Letter Perfect Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) Tampa on the Florida segment of my tour. I’m finding that the young people really like my songs, which I Sophomore Attempt Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) sing in the same style as I did years ago. This is very Stu Weaver Harry’s, Jax Beach (247-8855) gratifying for me to communicate musically with Brett Norton House of Jam, Mandarin (262-3377) today’s young people. On the new album, If Only in a Song, I wrote one song dedicated to Ira, my Let the Day Begin Fuel, Jax (425-3835) late brother. But the songs are classic hits from the Jimmy Solari Latitudes, Jax Beach Carter Family, and many of my old friends from the Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Conch House, St. Augustine old days. On the Circle of Friends cut, Dolly Parton (829-8646) and Alison Kraus performed. I’m very proud of this album,” Charlie said. Nathan Holley Bukkets, Jax Beach (246-7701) Indeed, Charlie is an inspiration for my cam- Dubwise Mango’s, Jax Beach eighty and still pickin’ paign against ageism in our society. By performing Louder Than Eleven Time Out Sports Grill, Jax for young people, he is both a living example of a person in his eighties still plying his craft, and his Ron & Mary Harpoon Louie’s, Jax Charlie Louvin interview songs go directly to a person’s psyche. In other Chris Miller San Sebastian Winery, St. Augustine words, music is a special means of communication Kings of Hell Eddie Bahamas, Jax Beach (241-3138) that bypasses the BS and goes directly to a person’s by Rick grant [email protected] consciousness. In this way, our youth learn that Elvir Gazic Bourbon Street, Jax (641-8777) older people can still have their careers and still do Matt Still Bucket’s, Jax Beach WHO: Charlie Louvin as the Monroe Brothers and the Delmore Brothers. important things in our society. Seeing musical leg- Open Mic w/Larry Broussard St. Johns Pizza Grill, WHERE: Cafe Eleven, St. Augustin The Louvin Brothers dominated the charts in the ends like Charlie Louvain gives everyone hope and Jax (287-9900) WHEN: Thursday, May 31st early 1950s. helps to abolish age prejudice. When I called up country music legend Charlie Interestingly, Charlie and Ira recorded hits in Louvin’s cell, he was fishing. So between bites, we country, gospel, folk, hillbilly, and 1950s pop. But SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 26-27 chatted about his first studio album in ten years, If as a solo artist, Charlie settled into country music Big Al & the Kaholics Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange as his bread-and-butter genre. In 1955, the Louvin Only in a Song. Charlie, who is 80 years old, is a Park (269-4198) member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. He’s Brothers joined the Grand Ole Opry, where they been an important country artist for 65 years, and performed with great acclaim until 1963. Tragically, counting. His career dates back to when he and his Ira was killed in a 1965 car crash. After that, Charlie SUNDAY, MAY 27 brother Ira performed as the Louvin Brothers back in went solo, writing many hit songs for other per- Humane Society Benefit-Members of Tytus Hale, the early1940s. Of course, WWII put a big hole in the formers and himself. Charlie recorded with Capital Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162) Louvin Brothers’ career from 1941, when America Records until 1972. During that time, Charlie had entered the war, until 1945 when the war ended. two top ten hits, ‘I Don’t Love Her Anymore’ and Ruckus, 2 Tymin Back then, brother duos were all the rage, such ‘See The Big Man Cry’. More importantly, Charlie Those Guys Sunset Grill, St. Augustine (471-5555) Michael Funge Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) Dan Shepherd Harpoon Louie’s, Jax (389-5631) 3 Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) JW Gilmore Gypsy Cab Company, St. Augustine Memorial Day Headbanger Fest Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) Roots Music Fest-Big Sam’s Funky Nation Mojo’s Kitchen, Jax Beach (247-6636) Gary Allan Florida Theatre, Jax Eros Endo Exo, Jax (396-7733) Billy & Vinnie Ragtime Tavern, Atlantic Beach (241-7877) David Milam Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Dave Massey Monkey’s Uncle, Mandarin (260-1349) Spade McQuade Fionn MacCool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) Jimmy Parrish Carib Key, Jax Beach (270-8940) Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) Johnny Flood Monkey’s Uncle, Jax Beach (246-1070) El Toro Loco Mark’s Downtown, Jax (355-5099) Pato Banton Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) Tayste Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181)

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 25 Bigga Rankin Plush, Jax (743-1845) Blues Night Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) a changed man Tarik Hassan Sahara Café, Jax interview with Jonny Lang MONDAY, MAY 28 First Coast Pride Memorial Day Picnic-Too Many by Rick grant [email protected] Shoes Riverside Park, Jax WHO: Jonny Lang straight from your heart. Can Memorial Day Concert-Gil Surrette & the Boston The WHERE: The Florida Theatre you talk about your catharsis Plaza, St. Augustine WHEN: Wednesday, May 30th - 8 PM and what happened to inspire Connection, Roland Fleming Connection you to make this album? Boxrockers Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Musically, Jonny Lang has been evolving from Jonny: Well, previously the only his first successful album at age 15 to an experi- subjects I had written about are Charlie Walker Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) enced singer/songwriter who recently went through negative. It seems like those are Sam Pacetti The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) a spiritual catharsis which changed his life. Since the ones people can relate to. Billy Bowers Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Jonny’s music is a reflection of his consciousness Songs about things I’ve been Beach (241-8221) expansion, his new album Turn Around celebrates going through. You know a lot his spiritual awakening with a collection of inspira- of things are not what I’m going Sugar Bear Harmonious Monks, Mandarin (880-3040) tional music that comes directly form Jonny’s heart through right now. I tended to Matt Still Ginger’s, Jax Beach and soul. This new work is inspired by blues, but the write about the things I was go- Ben Prestage Yesterday’s, Jax (387-0502) music goes way beyond Jonny’s roots into a new ing through at the time. realm of expression, with catchy changes of time Mark Hart Tradewinds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-9336) signature, mood, and polyrhythms. EU: Yeah, like love gone bad. Band of Destiny Square One, Jax (306-9004) Last Tuesday, I called Jonny to talk about his Unrequited love is a popular Christina Wagner Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) new album and his spiritual renewal that led Jonny theme for songwriters. But this into writing music that soars with soulful inspiration album is so different I had to Spring Fling Tour Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) of joy and accomplishment. Now Jonny is bringing get acquainted with it, yet I Gary Campbell San Sebastian Winery, St. Augustine his music to his fans with renewed energy. was inspired by the songs and Nolan Neal Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) could feel the new energy in EU: I’ve been listening to your new album, Turn your voice and orchestration. Stu Weaver Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) Around, in my car for a couple of days. At first, it It’s a very bold album and I was very different and I didn’t know what to make think it will do very well as you TUESDAY, MAY 29 of it. However, after I had lived with it for awhile tour around. Can you tell me specifically what hap- They feel it and understand its joyful message. on my travels, I was truly inspired by its sincere pened to you when you had your epiphany? Is this The music speaks for itself. When I listened to Billy & Vinnie Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune new insight. So I wanted to talk to you about the something you would like to talk about? the music I felt it was not only different but inspi- Beach (241-8221) evolution of this album which seems to be coming Jonny: Yes, I’m very comfortable talking about it. rational. More importantly, I think artists need to Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) To make a long story short: Being raised in North progress and try new things. That’s why you are Christina Wagner & Friends Mark’s Downtown, Jax Dakota I went to church, but all I saw were examples a performer and why you go through the hassle of (355-5099) of poor Christians. It really turned me off. I ended the business. So how is this tour going? up hating Christianity. I didn’t believe in God or I had Jonny: Yes, the tour has been going very well. We’ve Will Pearsall The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) no reason to have a relationship with God. I’d tell been on a break but we’re going back out for another Out of Hand Palace Saloon, Fernandina Beach people if Jesus is real, He would have to show me run and I’m excited to share my new music with my Dave Massey Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) He is real. Strangely, in the midst of my problems, fans. He made it clear to me He was real and I needed to Tyrone Wells Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) belong to him. It changed my life. I was addicted to EU: Can you talk about some of the material on the Ace Winn Copelands, Jax drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes. And suddenly I didn’t album? need those things in my life anymore. It was a major Those Guys Hurricane Patty’s, St. Augustine (827-1822) Jonny: The song that sums up the album for life changing experience. So, I wrote about it. me is Only a Man, which I did acoustically with my Ron Perry Fionn MacCool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) wife singing backup vocals. That song was very Hip Hop Hell Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) EU: Music is a special form of communication. It’s meaningful to me. I’ve been so blessed, and to have better than preaching or verbally telling people my wife sing with me was special. Bill Rice Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) what you went through. Music goes directly to the That concluded our chat. Clearly, Jonny speaks Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax listener’s soul and they feel it rather than con- volumes through his music and his latest album has Jimmy Solari My Place, Jax (737-5299) ceptualize it. So by performing your inspirational a lot to say about the changes in his life, which are music you are reaching people on a spiritual level. all positive. Seth Ramsdill Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293)

El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004)

TUESDAY-WED., MAY 29-30 Gene Nordan Mackenzie’s, Ponte Vedra (543-9143)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30 Cloud 9 Latitudes Café, Atlantic Beach (247-6606) Mr. Beam Casa Marina, Jax Beach (270-0025) Music by the Sea-Sinatra & Lanza The Pier, St. Augustine Beach Rebecca Zapen & Her Dirty Dishes Casbah, Jax Elisabeth Williamson Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) Gutterboy Snookers, Jax (696-0714) Matt Still Brix, Jax Beach

26 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Dave Massey My Place, Jax (737-5299) Wes Cobb Band Square One, Jax (306-9004) Crystal Stafford, Aerial Tribe Starlite Café, Jax (356-4444) Conrad Oberg London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) Stu Weaver The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) Shiny Toy Guns Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Eric Dawkins Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) The Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax (396-3396) El Toro Loco Aromas, Ponte Vedra (280-2525) Chuck Nash Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) Pili Pili Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Dave Massey My Place Bar & Grill, Jax (737-5299)

sentation of Hoodwinked. Slated as the real story of red riding hood, Hoodwinked will start around 9 pm. upcoming shows and will be shown on a large screen within the park. entertain the The opening act for the event will be Rheem’s Charlie Louvin May 31, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 Singin’ in the Shower Contest, slated to run from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. This light-hearted competition will feature Madina Lake May 31, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Jacksonville celebrities singing to win the coveted Kathleen Madigan June 1, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 showerhead trophy for the best in-the-shower singer. Mice Parade June 1, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Rheem Tankless will provide the shower with running whole family water on the stage. Tool June 2 , Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 Gates for the Spring Music Festival will open WWE World Wrestling Entertainment June 3, Jacksonville at 6 pm. Admission is free and the park tends to fill Arena, 353-3309 up fast, so do come early, if possible. Officials must The Audition June 6, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Spring Music Fest close the gates once they reach capacity. Food and beverages will be available for purchase inside Metro- k.d.lang & Lyle Lovett June 13, Times Union Center, 353-3309 politan Park and no outside food or beverages will be Pierce Pettis June 17, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 by Erin thursby [email protected] allowed into the park. Other prohibited items include: Go, Diego, Go Live! the Great Jaguar Rescue June 19, bags, backpacks or fanny packs larger than 8 ½” x WHAT: Spring Music Festival Make sure to keep your eyes on the stage, as Belushi Times Union Ctr, 632-3373 11”, coolers, picnic baskets, still or video cameras of WHEN: May 26th gates open at 6pm is fond of working a back flip into every show. any kind, roller skates or roller blades, bicycles, pets, Steve Miller Band June 21, Florida Theatrre, 355-2787 WHERE: Metropolitan Park Jim Belushi and The Sacred Hearts Band or umbrellas. Blankets and lawn chairs are encour- have played for many politicos (including former Railroad Earth June 21, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 aged for general seating. Strollers, diaper bags, and If you’re mostly familiar with Jim Belushi be- presidents), but the Rhythm and Blues band regularly Zoso June 22, Freebird Live, 246-2473 chairs “in a bag” will be permitted, but are subject to cause of his TV sitcom According to Jim, it might be performs for those not on the White House guest list. search. Brian Regan June 24, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 time to head on down to Metropolitan Park this week- They play all the House of Blues venues in addition to The Spring Music Festival is produced by the end to listen to some of his blues stylings, via The various benefits and corporate events. Drop Dead Gorgeous June 27, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 City of Jacksonville Office of Special Events and Sacred Hearts Band. Mayor John Peyton and the City of Jacksonville sponsored by The Eagle 96.9 FM, Speedstick, Tijuana Street Dogs June 28, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 After Dan Aykroyd asked Jim to be part of the welcomes Jim Belushi and The Sacred Hearts Band to Flats, Miller Lite, Coca Cola, and Ocean Waves. Visit Corey Smith June 28, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Blues Brothers, Jim prepared by crashing rehearsals the annual event. coj.net or call (904) 630-3690 for more info. of the house band (The Sacred Hearts) at the House “The Spring Music Festival offers another way Cedric The Entertainer June 29, Times Union Center, 353-3309 of Blues. Jamming was so much fun that Jim joined to celebrate the Memorial Day weekend in one of our American Idols LIVE Tour July 8, Jacksonville Arena, 630-3900 up with the band. For the past seven years they’ve premier parks downtown,” said Mayor John Peyton. been billed as Jim Belushi and the Sacred Hearts “We are excited to host Jim Belushi and look forward 311 with Matisyahu July 12, Jacksonville Arena, 630-3900 Band. to providing a wonderful event for individuals and Shooter Jennings July 12, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Belushi is a wild and crazy consummate per- families to enjoy.” Lisa Lampanelli July 14, The Florida Theatre, 355-2787 former who has worked as an actor, comedian and Following this very entertaining performance, now, as a singer. First and foremost, he’s an enter- music will meet movies when Belushi’s voice will be Morrissey July 17, Morocco Shrine Auditorium, 353-3309 tainer, so Jacksonville’s sure to get a great show! heard as the Woodsman in the animated feature pre- Van’s Warped Tour July 19, Reynold’s Park Yacht Center in Greencove Springs, 353-3309 Lee Roy Parnell July 20, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Tim McGraw and Faith Hill July 22, Jacksonville Arena, 630-3900 Candlebox July 24, Freebird Live, 246-2473 The Fab Four July 31, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Jethro Tull Dec.11, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

JUST ANNOUNCED The Moscow Cats Theatre July 7-8, Times Union Center, info: moscowcatstheatre.com My Little Pony Live “The World’s Biggest Tea Party”, July 20-22, Times Union Center , info: www.vee.com Yes, it’s true, performing cats and My Little Pony come to life on stage. Tickets for both of these exciting events will go on sales sometime in June.

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 27 sky blue sky album review

Artist: Wilco Title: Sky Blue Sky Release Date: 05.15.07 Label: Nonesuch

Gee wiz, Wilco’s done it again. Sky Blue Sky is another amazing addition to Wilco’s already impressive album collection. Lead singer Jeff Tweedy showcases his talent for melodic vocals that make Wilco sound so cool and calm. Wilco is quickly on its way to becoming a staple of our generation’s definition of folk-rock music. Sky Blue Sky is Wilco’s ninth release and doesn’t stray too far from their established style and sound. Think more ‘Jesus Etc.’ than ‘I’m a Wheel’. Somewhat harkening back to their previous tranquil folksy sound that they strayed away from in A Ghost is Born, they deliver a truly pleasant album. It falls even farther from the more experimental Yankee Hotel Foxtrot released in 2002. This CD is for anyone looking for a nice tranquil sound which still has lyrics with depth and meaning. If you’re new to Wilco, check out the tracks ‘Impossible Germany’ and ‘Either Way’, which are highlights of the album, although every track has something to offer. The hauntingly beautiful repetition of ‘On and On and On’ is also something to check out. To truly appreciate most Wilco albums, a second listen is required, but in Sky Blue Sky’s case, the whole album can be enjoyed on its first listen. Lead singer Jeff Tweedy didn’t let his stint in rehab for a painkiller addiction interfere with his usual impec- cable lyricism. The lyrics on the album are short, sweet, and to the point. Sort of a minimalist approach, the lyrics add a nice accent to the breezy guitar and steady drum beats. Although Wilco keeps touring to a minimum, they did do a show at the Florida Theater last year in March. They will also be performing at this year’s Bonnaroo music festival in Tennessee. This album is a nice reminder that Wilco is far from getting away from the music scene, with a twelve year repertoire already. Unlike some bands that refuse to go back to the original sound that brought them success, Wilco takes a step backwards with great results. by MORGAN HENLEY

four on the floor album review

Artist: Juliet and the Licks Title: Four on the Floor Release Date: album re-issue with DVD 05.26.07 Label: The Militia Group Juliette Lewis became known as an actress, in particular for her roles in Cape Fear and Natural Born Killers (with co-star Woody Harrelson) in the mid-1990s. In 2004, Julliette and the Licks released their first EP and Lewis has mainly concentrated on music since then, although she’s had cameo appearances on TV and in movies. I initially didn’t expect much from Juliette and the Licks, since most actors/actresses turned musicians tend to disappoint, but I was amazed to find that they do even more than just not suck. Visceral girl rock is what Juliette and the Licks deliver, and it’s backed up by some surprising talent. Just when you think it’s all about a driving, traditional rock sound, everything stops and changes, as in the second track ‘Hot Kiss.’ Things don’t get too weird though, and there are enough heavy hooks to draw most listeners in. It might not be the best girl-rock I’ve ever heard, but it’s certainly far more than merely passable. Lewis might be subject to more scrutiny than most because of her actress-turned-singer status, but I’d say she’s certainly better than most nu-wave, girl-rock out there. She’s got a wonderfully ferocious, trashy, feral vocal quality, which really makes the most of these songs; especially track five, ‘Death of a Whore.’ Most of the meat is in the top six tracks; there doesn’t seem to be much left to give by the end of the album. The most arresting track might be the first on the album, ‘Smash and Grab.’ All in all, the album is fun, musically tight and deliciously over-the top. by erin thursby

28 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Merlyn Evans, Vertical Composition No. 2, 1937, Tempera on linen mounted on board, 76 3/16 x 49 in., Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, Museum of Art, Utica, NY. David Revette Photography.

from their work. They were interested in the raw basics of art creation - lines, shapes, colors. Furthermore, they believed that the viewer could glean just as much (if not more) from their art as a realistic work. Basically, if a painting has a subject, then you can consider it not about many things, but you can’t rule anything out if a

Raymond Duchamp-Villon, The Great painting looks like nothing. Horse, 1914, Bronze, 41 ¼ x 38 ¼ Presented by the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts in., Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, this traveling exhibition showcases a prime Institute, Museum of Art, Utica, NY. example from each artist’s body of work. David Revette Photography. Whether you enjoy Cubism, Futurism, Expression- ism, Neo-Plasticism, Dada or Surrealism (or none of them at all), this exhibition has something you can truly rather strange appreciate, even if you don’t know it yet. developments Modernism at the Cummer by donald dusinberre [email protected] Everyone wants to meet the President of the If you’re smart enough to recognize the op- United States. No matter who holds the office, no mat- portunity in viewing the work of great artists, then visit ter which political party you’re affiliated with, meeting the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens soon. The the President is an opportunity few can pass up. It’s a President will probably not be in attendance, but at least unique and rare experience for anyone, even if you don’t you’ll have the satisfaction of being more refined than he understand or appreciate why. is. So it is with seeing a painting by Picasso, Mon- Running through August 12th, the Cummer Mu- drian, or Dali. Even if you think Modern art is ridiculous, seum of Art and Gardens is featuring Rather Strange you have to concede that it’s significant. Those artists Developments, an overview of modern art. It features have been glorified by history as masters, and there’s no the work of such renowned artists as Wassily Kandinsky, way you can deny the opinion of millions. The collective Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Piet Mondrian, Salvador opinion of scholars and fans is what certifies an artist as Dali and Paul Klee. great and puts his or her artwork in the history books. So, what’s the big idea with these works of art? The reason we fall for the opinions of others is history One of the main points of Modernism is the removal itself. It’s fascinating to imagine museum patrons cen- of discernable subject matter. Realism has no place, turies from now looking at the same works of art we’ve and it’s not because the artists were lazy or had poorly Hard time Juan Gris, Still Life with Bottle, 1917, Oil on wood, 18 1/8 x 10 seen in our own lifetime. In a small way, we actually developed drawing skills. Modernists felt shackled by 5/8 in., Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, Museum of Art, Utica, NY. contribute to the legend of greatness. realism and made explicit efforts to remove its influence David Revette Photography.

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 29 culture & arts monsters and fables MAY 24 Planetarium Programs MOSH, Jax interview with artist Dan May 24 Cocktails & Creatives AIGA Meeting West Inn Cantina, Jax 24-25 Psychedelic Summer Camp Cultural Center, Ponte Vedra Beach by donald dusinberre [email protected] 24-26 Exhibition: Jo Sinclair’s “Twilight Passage” Cultural Center, Ponte Vedra Beach May: Funny you should mention that! For years I avoided canvas like the 24-26 Carl Linnaeus’ 300th Birthday Celebration MOSH, Jax plague. I’d paint on wood, illustration 24-29 “GI Jukebox” ABET Adele Grage Center, Atlantic Beach board, paper, etc…I didn’t care for 24-30 Exhibit: Jim Smith-GrandsSecret, Petits Objects Screen the canvas texture. In my recent work, Arts, St. Augustine which is almost 100% canvas, I’ve 24-JUNE 2 “True West” Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, Gainesville discovered ways to make the texture work for me instead of against me. 24-JULY 5 Out of the Shadows Exhibit UNF Gallery, Jax 24-AUG. 12 “Rather Strange Developments” Picasso, EU: Your paintings seem to say Kandinsky & Mondrian Cummer Museum, Jax something; they contain an allegori- 24-AUG. 26 Impermanence: Recent Works By Andres cal element. Do they teach a specific Michelena MOCA, Jax lesson or tell a story? Or is it com- Belly of the Beast pletely up to the viewer to formulate 25 Moonlight Movies Series-Ghostbusters Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax his/her own ideas? Beach May: Yes, I would say my recent work is full of As a kid I found myself watching Saturday morning 25-SEPT. 3 Spirits in St. Augustine Dinner Theatre-Cabaret of alone in a crowd allegory. Most of the elements in my paintings are cartoons, playing with Legos and Transformers, and St. Augustine School of Performing Arts, St. Augustine placed there for a specific reason, and are a part of drawing monsters, odd creatures, and cartoons until 26 Author Carrol Wolverton Barnes & Noble, Mandarin From time to time, I feel inclined to highlight a a larger overall story. As far as specific meanings all hours of the night. I’m basically doing the same Jacksonville artist who doesn’t get enough attention or lessons, I generally leave it up to the viewer to fill 26-27World War II Event Fort Clinch State Park, Fernandina thing today, although I’ve picked up some new tech- for his or her work. This week, Dan May is our fea- in the blanks. Based on the reactions I’ve received, niques and added a higher conceptual element to my 27 Art in the Afternoons-Modern Painting Cummer Museum, Jax tured artist, our favorite illustrator of monsters and some just see my work as a series of cute or scary work. I’d say the world around me has always been 26-OCT. 14 Dinosaurs & Ice Age Mammals MOSH, Jax fables. Although I’ve mentioned him on a number creatures, while others see a much deeper meaning my biggest influence. of occasions, I still think it’s necessary to keep our and formulate their own stories. 28 First Coast Pride Memorial Day Picnic, Live Music, Pet Parade, Games Riverside Park, Jax readers in the know about where to find his work. EU: Where in town will the fine citizens of Jack- I caught up with May via email as he was com- EU: If your pieces are indeed specific, do you first sonville be able to see your work over the next few 30 Summer Cinema-“Transamerica” MOCA, Jax pleting some more work for his upcoming shows. As develop the idea and then paint, or do you paint to months? 31 FCCJ Small & Emerging Business Training & Development I had never communicated with him before, I had a see what story comes out of you? May: I have a selection of paintings, studies, and Program FCCJ North Campus, Jax few questions for him: May: Ideas for new paintings come at random mo- prints available through Bogda Gallery in Riverside, th 31 Freddy the Lion’s Birthday-Open House Catty Shack, Jax ments throughout the day, and even in my dreams. and I also have a series of prints available at the 9 EU: Much of your work is smaller than a sheet of Often times I’ll wake up in the middle of the night, and Liberty Gallery in Springfield. Other than that, legal paper. Why do you paint so small? scribble down a concept or a short phrase, and I’ll my work can be seen in shows outside of the Jack- JUNE May: Ha, yes that’s true…I guess I paint small for revisit them in the morning. Some of these ideas get sonville area (Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco, 1 Moonlight Movies Series-The King and I Sea Walk Pavilion, a variety of reasons. For one, I think that the size of developed into paintings, while others just get filed Seattle, Atlanta and Chicago). Jax Beach my artwork is somewhat a reflection of the size of away. Needless to say, there is very little “planning” my studio…small. At the moment, I’m working out that goes into each piece. I prefer to let my mind take EU: “Alone in a Crowd” would make awesome 1 Exhibit Reception: Anna Tomczak Cultural Center, Ponte of a spare bedroom of our condo. Secondly, I began control and see what flows out. My favorite paint- pajamas, don’t you think? Vedra Beach my career (and sometimes still work) as a freelance ings start out in one direction and end up becoming May: Ha! That would be cool… any clothing design- 1 4th Annual Dancing in the Streets of Avondale Historic illustrator, working under very tight deadlines, at something completely different. ers out there looking to put out a line of monster Shoppes, Jax times with a 24-hour or less turnaround. An 8” x 10” pajamas? 1 Opening Reception: Featured Artist Olive Energy Lab Art or smaller painting is not only easier to complete in EU: I sometimes get a Tim Burton vibe from your Gallery, St. Augustine a short period of time, but it’s also easier to scan work, maybe a splash of SpongeBob or Dr. Seuss. You can see and learn more about Dan May’s art- 1-2 Railroad Days Festival Downtown, Callahan and send as a digital file. Finally, I thoroughly enjoy How much influence have they actually had on work by visiting: working on small canvases. I have worked on much your work? mayillustration.com 1-23 “State Fair” Orange Park Community Theatre, Jax larger canvases in the past, and I’m now in the pro- May: I can’t really pinpoint one direct “hero” or flickr.com/photos/danmay 1-SEPT. 3 The Cabaret of St. Augustine-Spirits Community cess of going big again. Stay tuned! major influence on my art. However, the works of myspace.com/danmayart School of Performing Arts, St. Augustine Tim Burton and Dr. Seuss have certainly had some 2 Open House Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jax EU: You paint many works on canvas, which adds impact on me, along with the work of Edward Gorey, Dan May Prints are available through: an organic feel while avoiding a pure sharpness. Hieronymus Bosch, and Salvador Dali among others. blueflipart.com 2 Anastasia State park Beach Bash Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine prettydarnswell.com 2 Picking in Spring Park-Bluegrass Association Spring Park, Green Cove Springs 2-9 Women’s Golf Week World Golf Village, St. Augustine 2-JULY 30 “Death” Murder Mystery Players Dave & Busters, Jax 3 Family Fun Day World Golf Village, St. Augustine 4-JULY 27 Summer Adventure Camps MOSH, Jax 4-JULY 13 Camp Cummer Cummer Museum, Jax 6 Burn the Floor-Floor Play Performing Arts Center, Jax 6 Summer Cinema-“The Devil’s Backbone” MOCA, Jax 7-24 “South Pacific” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach 8 Moonlight Movies Series-Forrest Gump Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach 8 Nelson Mandela Metro University Choir UNF University Center, Jax 8 Alphabet Affair: Celebrating the Cinema The Haskell

30 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Company, Jax 8-23 “Guys and Dolls” Theatre Jacksonville, Jax 9 Beaches Fine Arts Series Concert Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach 9 Celebrate 2007-Dinner, Drinks & Live Music with Revolution TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra 9 Open House Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jax 9 Nelson Mandela Metro University Choir Main Library, Jax 9 One & Only Genuine Original MOSH Party MOSH, Jax 10 Summer Jazz Concert Series Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach 10 Auditions: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” 6pm Theatre Jacksonville, Jax 10 Auditions: Cabaret – 6pm Players by the Sea, Jax Beach 10 Nelson Mandela Metro University Choir St. Johns Cathedral, Jax 11 Nelson Mandela Metro University Choir FCCJ North Campus, Jax 12 Nelson Mandela Metro University Choir Plaza, St. Augustine rocky horror show live available. 12-SEPT.2 Tradition in Transition: Russian Icons in the Age of Joey and his Associate Producer/General Man- Romanovs Cummer Museum, Jax ger, Vanessa Harper, have assembled an outstanding 13 Summer Cinema - Cocaine Angel MOCA, Jax cast from around the country, including some of our on stage this June at the 5 Points Theatre wonderful local talent, such as Randall Adkison, Juan 14-JULY 8 “Silver Screen Seranade” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach Unzueta and Michelle Berry. Our own Lee Hamby is by dick kerekes [email protected] creating the costumes for this stellar production. 15 Golfweek’s Father & Son Open Slammer & Squire, St. Last summer Chancey produced tick,tick,BOOM Augustine Curry, Susan Sarandon at the Atlantic Theatres to rave reviews. Chancey 15 Hand in Hand: A Father Daughter Art Duet Benefit Kessler and Meatloaf. It became is excited about using the historic 5 Points Theatre, Mentoring R. Roberts Gallery, Jax a cult favorite and played which has been completely renovated by the Mike 16 Vettes at the Village World Golf Village, St. Augustine midnights at theatres all Shad group, along with the rest of the building. 5 over the country. Points has become such an eclectic area, with a 16-17 Car Show Jax Zoo, Jax The movie played variety of restaurants and interesting shops. Although 18 Auditions: “Benchwarmers” Players By the Sea, Jax Beach at the San Marco Theatre Joey will be leaving for New York to audition for a 19-20 FCCJ Artist Series-Dora the Explorer, Go Diego Go on Saturdays at midnight Broadway roadshow after this production closes, Performing Arts Center, Jax for several years. I lived Chancey Productions Inc. has plans for future con- in that area and I know I temporary musicals in Jacksonville and wants to 19-23 CSI Summer Camp FCCJ Advanced Technology Center, Jax saw it at least 40 times. produce Jacksonville Summer Music Theatre as an When movies became annual event. 20 Summer Cinema “Tsotsi” MOCA, Jax available on VHS and Rocky Horror is going to be the big event of the 22-24 21st Annual Greek Landing Day Celebration St. Photios DVD, everybody could summer and I would recommend buying tickets early Shrine, St. Augustine own a copy; the movie since this is a limited run. If you want a sample before 24 The Huls Clark Duo Main Library, Jax disappeared from the you pay your money, be at ArtWalk downtown on theatres and so did the June 6 at 6 pm in Hemming Plaza when the cast will 27 Summer Cinema “The Iron Giant” MOCA, Jax fans that dressed like the present highlighted songs from the production for free characters. (It would be great to see a few diehard Rocky fans JULY I will bet that some dressed up!) It has been about twenty-five years since those of the audience participants from those days are now Shows will be presented on Thursday, Friday 4 4th of July Liberty Celebration Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach wild and crazy characters of the Rocky Horror Show grandparents, but probably still have the costumes and Saturday. There will plenty of free street parking 5-22 “Nine” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach have been on stage in Jacksonville. Chancey Produc- and make up stashed away in some closet. Well get all over 5 Points since many of the businesses close it out - there will be some audience participation at at 5 pm and adult beverages will be available at all 9-AUG. 10 Summer Teen Workshop Orange Park Community tions Inc. will be opening this classic musical for a Theatre, Orange Park three week run starting June 21st at the 5 Points The- selected performances. show (with proper ID, of course). atre. Producer Joey Chancey, who is also the musical If you have never seen this show, wow are you 11 Summer Cinema “When Fried Eggs Fly” MOCA, Jax I saw the original stage production in London in director, says there will be limited audience participa- in for a treat no matter what your age. Well, start look- 13 Summer Cinema “When Fried Eggs Fly” Encore MOCA, Jax the 70s. The play was made into a movie starring Tim tion at the Friday and Saturday l0:30 pm shows, none ing for rice, toast and a squirt gun so you will be pre- 13-28 “Bat Boy: The Musical” Players by the Sea, Jax Beach at the 8 pm performances. Tickets will go on sale May pared for The Rocky Horror Show. Girls...don’t forget 28th at l0 am online at chanceyproductions.com, or the fishnets. 14 Tonca’s Birthday Celebration MOSH, Jax you can call (904) 252-1077. Ticket prices will range 14 Open House Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jax from $2l to $32 with some “nightclub” type seating 15 Summer Jazz Concert Series Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach 16-20 CSI Summer Camp FCCJ Advanced Technology Center, Jax 18 Summer Cinema “Akeelah & the Bee” MOCA, Jax 20-21 “Oklahoma!” YBAG Fletcher High School, Neptune Beach 21 Day of Total Luna-See MOSH, Jax 25 Summer Cinema “Cinema Paradiso” MOCA, Jax 26-AUG. 19 “Snapshots” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach 28 Open House Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jax

AUGUST 1 Summer Cinema Y’Tu Mama Tambien MOCA, Jax

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 31 what’s eating you? by katie veltri [email protected]

Getting fit is a lifestyle change, but what if Vitale attained his physical fitness by focusing you’re lifestyle change depended on your emotional on what he wanted, not on what he didn’t want. One state? Do you let your emotions guide how you treat can do this by following a weight-loss program that your body? Most people do. Think about it, if you’re places more emphasis on happiness than dieting. feeling sad or blue, what do you do? Would you really “Unhappy people tend to sit in front of the want to work out or chomp down a handful of carrots? television and overeat and do nothing but complain,” How we feel has so much to do with how we he said. “Even if they are feeling frustrated, sad, or live. Whether it is on a conscious level or not, we all, angry, they tend to bottle their energy and do little to to some degree or another, find solace in acting out nothing with it. As a result, they get fat.” how we feel towards our body because it is the best It’s a vicious cycle, one that Vitale knows all and easiest tool to do it with. It’s not just a one-way too well. Through his own weight-loss program, he street. This means it’s not just when you exercise and focuses on tackling underlying issues and demons to eat healthy that your emotional state improves, it’s attain a more blissful state, which in turn allows one the other way around, too. Your emotional state has to lose weight and attain physical fitness. the power to either kick you into high gear to make a Inspiration comes from letting stories like these change and persevere, or drive you to justify how you sink in. Vitale has made the choice to perceive getting feel with eating bad foods and taking a nap instead of fit as an emotional wake up call. You can use that a jog. aggression, frustration, fear, angst, pain, depression, The point, is you have the power to decide or stress to push through to a new world. You can whether to persevere or plummet. Getting in shape do this by becoming in tune with these emotions has much to do with the choices that you make and molding them into something better, because depending upon your emotional state. Here is a quote these feelings are something worth evaluating. These from a man who has his own story and some great feelings are there for a reason. Often I have felt a advice on the subject: euphoric bliss when running, feeling that I can get “People mistakenly think happiness is where past these obstacles and emotional roadblocks if I you sit and vegetate under a lotus tree,” says Vitale, just keep going. There are moments when we all want 52, an author and hypno-therapist in Texas. “The to crawl into a black hole and wait until someone truth is happy people tend to take more actions in the else pulls us out. The light that we’re searching for, direction of their goals.” though, is not outside of us. It’s inside. It’s in you.

tip: Posture up. When you’re walking, take notice of you how hold yourself. You can strengthen and tone your abdominals by simply walking with correct posture. To do this: relax your shoulders down away from your ears, rolling them back a couple of times, then, tilt your pelvis in and out a few times until you find a neutral position, then allow your spine to lengthen by contracting your stomach muscles and shoulders to relax down even more. When you inhale, imagine that you are expanding your rib cage when you exhale, imagine that you are pulling your belly button in towards your spine.

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32 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Meanwhile, the Ducks have shown their size and strength in getting to the Finals. Ana- beachwise: heim displays strong talent, including Scott by shaun robbins and Rob Niedermayer, Chris Pronger, Ryan Getzlaf, and Teemu Selanne. In all hockey contests, the play of the Goaltenders is crucial. For the Sens, watch Ray Emery do his work, while the Ducks THE counter with Jean-Sebastien Giguere. This should be a great series, certainly JOCK worth watching if you are a sports fan. by tom weppel MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL Within the next week, we will see Roger Clemens return to the mound to pitch for the New York Yankees. At the beginning of the INDIANAPOLIS 500 season, most baseball fans would never have This weekend we have the most traditional, expected the situation to present itself as it has. But coveted race in the USA, known as the Indianapolis the Yankees pitching staff looks like a total M*A*S*H 500. They’ve been racing cars there since cars were unit, with five pitchers having been shelved for all or made, in the early 1900’s, when the track was a parts of the season. As a result, the Bombers have brickyard. About 250,000 will show up to watch this had a rough time retaining their winning ways. event on Sunday. And so now Clemens comes in, and a lot of Of course, the Indy Racing Circuit has had to Yankee fans are looking at him to be a savior. I think deal with awful leadership over the last few years, they better be just a little weary in realizing that, being reduced to a minor league. The Indy cars have while the Rocket certainly can still bring heat and been overtaken by the popularity of NASCAR, so it help produce wins, he will only pitch every four or Morning Break seems as if these autos and this series are nothing five days, and it will still take a better effort overall more than piecemeal, for all intents. by EVERYONE on the team. Nor’easters are good for producing sizable choppy surf, but on rare occasions can turn into super But there is still excitement and interest in what That includes the DH/1B Jason Giambi, who fun surf. Fortunately, we received a mixture of both a few weeks ago. The weekend brought large choppy surf will take place at Indy this weekend. The Indy cars has stirred up controversy with his mention of ste- that started to clean up on Tuesday once the West Northwest winds showed up. That night, my friend Ryan and race like rocket ships. There is a lot more speed than roids, as if anyone needed to hear that. This whole I charged the large, somewhat choppy sections as a warm-up for the highly anticipated waves that would be you find in NASCAR, which means there is more steroid thing with Baseball has gotten ridiculous, there the next morning. The two of us battled the pounding sets as we paddled outside to take advantage of the danger involved as well. with the media working it to the hilt. Combined with somewhat calmer current and larger waves. We dropped into some good waves that night, but nothing like the In the past, the names of the winners of this the continuing disturbance as to whether Barry following morning. race have made Indianapolis what it is. Guys like A.J Bonds did steroids or not, there is mention of it on a The next morning dawn patrol crew consisted of three, Ryan, Matt, and myself. We met up at our usual Foyt, Mario Andretti, and Al and Bobby Unser, were daily basis. Sooner or later, we are all gonna get tired break just before 7 am, and set up our cars for the swift drift. We all felt a little cold and tired walking the road well known with the public. That has been missing in of hearing about it, and caring, if not already. to the beach, but that was quickly overcome when we came out onto the beach to find semi-glassy 6 to 10-foot recent years. bombs with only a few people in sight. The three of us quickly paddled out and began catching waves right away. But this year, things are different. For instance, NASCAR We were taking massive drops, pulling into barrels, and enjoying the long lines that were ahead of us. Each of us we have THREE Andrettis racing, with John, Michael, This weekend, the boys will be in Charlotte to enjoyed dropping into the biggest wave we saw, riding down the line, snapping the lip a few times, and pulling and Marco. We will also see a Foyt (A.J. IV) and an go 600 miles in a grueling race that does NOT in- the sickest airs out of the back of the wave only to paddle back out and do it all over again. Unser (Al, Jr.) competing. And now you can give a clude the Car of Tomorrow…for this year. Unfortunately for me, my last wave of the morning came a little sooner than I would have liked. The little notice to the female impact, with not one, not But starting next season, though, the COT will be wave I chose was an 8-foot bomb that completely jacked up at the last second, causing me to make a late drop, two, but THREE WOMEN, including Danica Patrick, used exclusively for all races. It sets up a lot of which turned into a full-on freefall for the entire 8 feet. When I landed on the flat, the wave knocked me down, Sarah Fisher, and now Milka Duno racing for the discussion and debate, with differing positive and and rung me through the washing machine effect about 3 times. To make it even worse, when I popped up to Borg-Warner trophy. negative opinions. paddle back out, I discovered that my board had broken in half. My buddy Ryan was paddling back out and saw So, let’s see what Indy can turn out for racing Most ownership groups have complained for a one of the greatest wipeouts of my life unfold, and told me his version of the story laughingly, once he found out fans this weekend, as it tries to regain the promi- number of reasons, the main deal being that running I wasn’t pissed, when he got to shore. That evening, I borrowed a board form my buddy Chris, and charged it until nence it once held. two different car operations is too costly. Other com- nightfall. While this session was not even half of what the morning had been and was packed with other surfers, plaints include the fact that the Hendrick boys seem the surf was still sizable and fun. STANLEY CUP FINALS/NHL to be dominating the competition with the new rides. We are now down to the two best teams in the NHL, ready to fight for the Stanley Cup. After a NBA forecasted conditions by Shaun Robbins month of playoffs, it comes down to the Anaheim We’re down to four teams left playing in the Ducks and the Ottawa Senators playing for the most Conference Finals. I’d be surprised if the Pistons and Once again we enjoyed some surf, and hordes of surfers came out to take advantage of it. Lucky for impressive trophy in all of sports, period. Spurs DON’T win their respective series, based on us our good fortunes continue, as we will have waves again this week. On Thursday we will have a strong East On the East Coast, we have the Senators, a their depth and talent. A Detroit/San Antonio Finals wind blowing in around 20 knots that will produce some sizable choppy surf. The wind should start to die off late Canadian team that has made a nice run through would be a nice matchup. Friday or sometime Saturday, and with it will go the sizable surf. No fear though, because once the wind swell is the playoffs, primarily due to their dominant line of gone some small but ridable longboard waves will stick around. But don’t take my weekly word for it, call or log Daniel Alfredsson, Dany Heatley, and Jason Spezza. Tom Weppel talks trash with Greg onto your local report daily to find out what the present conditions are for your favorite break. Those three have simply overtaken all comers, scor- Larson, Ron Duguay, and Lonnie Marts on ing consistently and winning games. SportsAvengers.com 24/7. pick it up weekly movies music dining theatre arts

eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 33 didn’t happen with Jr’s stuff. The fans just started employees think it’s time to move on, well NAPA; buying it up. As a matter of fact, I had to make sure I move on. I want to ask the same question to our got a couple of his 2007 things myself. As for 2008, UPS driver, but I’m not real sure if she knows who nascar news & notes I just don’t know if I can buy a different car, jacket DJ is. I will anyway, just to get a reaction. or hat of his new team, just like Kevin Harvick and Right here I’m going to say, “I told you so,” and the Shell car. Since 2001 I have bought every single if y’all don’t remember, I was talking about the AT&T by RICHARD TEAGUE [email protected] car that came out for Harvick, but this year I think I’ll vs NASCAR suit. Saturday night, the big ‘ol AT&T The COT needs to be upfront for now, since says “due within the next thirty days” or “whenever either slow down or just pass altogether on his stuff. logo was plum all over that number 31 car, and don’t you know the job deal won’t be for sure for a while. the heck we get them you’ll get them.” I don’t think I’ve got so much of Jr’s stuff, from hats, that tackle you know Jeff Burton and Richard Childress were Seems that NASCAR and team owners are just that Brian or Bruton are worried too much about that box and the fishing rod from Wal-Mart, to every one slap happy about that. Even after the judge spanked plumb tickled to death with the Car of Tomorrow or, when they find out where Jr is going, because they of his diecast cars, but for 2008 with a new team, NASCAR on Friday, they ran back into court crying as most are calling it, the new car, but I have said know his fans will wait until a real hot place freezes the price of gas and the cost of NASCAR stuff, it’s “say it ain’t so and don’t let them do it.” The judge many times I don’t like it. There are still some drivers over to get their little pieces of metal. They know this definitely going to go up. PASS! probably looked up and said, “Now Brian, just what that feel the same but they ain’t got a choice now and live by it cause they can’t make every car’s paint By the way, I did get my Jeff Gordon and Dale did I tell ya yesterday?” Now Nextel has joined NAS- because it is finally written in stone that the COT change or every winning version of a car by the time Earnhardt Jr. NASCAR Barbies when they came CAR in another appeal, but come on guys, give it up. will be the only car next season. NASCAR has now, the car is raced or the driver wins. out, and at the retail price, so I would recommend Y’all done messed with a real mother in Ma Bell, so tagged it “The Car” of the four manufacturers and I I do know one thing. The price of this year’s y’all pick yours up soon. Don’t worry, I will still get you best be getting ready for all them little sponsors still don’t see how or why those guys let them do it. I diecast and the 2008 stuff won’t be cheap. I got a the #48 and #24 stuff, and I may even slip a Tony to start hacking at ya for their rights also. But you thought they said they were going to wait until sum- funny feeling that, come next February, John and I Stewart car in every so often. Even my wife has know, Brian, there could be a real dark cloud on your mer to announce if it would race full time in 2008, won’t be getting the deal we used to get. This past commented about how I have really slowed on my horizon in the form of that little old track named the ,but I guess they got in a hurry. start of the season we couldn’t find much to buy be- buying habits of NASCAR accouterments. That word Kentucky Speedway. Now if only Dale Earnhardt Jr. would let us cause there just weren’t many blowouts of cars like is my favorite when talking about NASCAR parapher- Well that’s it for this week and we’re back to know where he is going next year so the Red Army it has been the past many years. I’m thinking about nalia, collectibles, gear, materials or just plain ‘ol real racing next weekend. I’ll be real glad after that could start buying his new stuff. The makers of just skipping it next year. Y’all know when I first stuff! Accouterment is defined by Yahoo as “Things All-Star whatever it was (sure wasn’t The Winston Jr’s things, from diecast cars to the sticker on your started this column I would tell you where to get the needed for a task, journey, or other purpose,” so the was it?). If you feel the need to contact me, you can back window, need to know worse than the fans, deals, but since Motorsports Authentics has taken task is finding it at the best price you can and the do it at [email protected] and you know; If it because they need time to produce the millions of over and cornered the market, there really aren’t any. journey is as long as you can afford it with the pur- ain’t NASCAR, It ain’t s**t!! things that y’all will buy. Did you think they whipped Oh sure, you can buy the not-so-popular drivers’ pose of leaving it for your grandchildren to dispose these things up in a couple of weeks or something? stuff at anytime, but who wants that, anyway? And of after you’re gone. pick it up weekly Perhaps many of the items are easily produced in a accordingly, they don’t make much of it. Now, to get back to racing for a minute, until I short time, but not the real moneymakers like diecast Now when Junior said he was going to leave go off on another tangent, how much longer can or movies cars and those fancy NASCAR jackets everybody DEI, all the dealers were scared that all their #8 will NAPA stay with Michael Waltrip? And what about music wears to the races. Motorsports Authentics, which is stuff was not going to sell and they would be stuck UPS with Dale Jarrett? Today I had a NAPA driver dining owned by Brian and Bruton, needs time to get pro- with it. The reasoning behind that is that in the past, make a delivery to work, and I asked him about his duction started in China for the cars, and they said whenever a driver changed teams, his previous team driver. He said they wouldn’t be back next year. Now, theatre by mid-summer would be nice. colors wouldn’t sell because he’s not in that car I know that this guy is not privy to special inside arts I don’t see how that would be a problem with anymore. Well, from what I have been hearing, this information or anything, but gosh, when even the the cars, since they all look so much alike, so I guess it is the paint schemes that need to be set for the new team he goes with. I read where MA was way behind in putting the COTs on the market because NASCAR couldn’t finalize the dang design, so a car that has already been in several races still isn’t available to the fans yet. I take that back, there is a small diecast maker that has turned a few different drivers out, but not your big time favorites yet. MA says that it may be June or July before you can pick yours up at the flea market or online. Heck, I ordered two of each driver from my GM Dealer distributor last December and they haven’t got a clue when we’ll get ours. The first guys to get the COT diecast will be the haulers at the races, because they can get the most money for them there and then the local dealers should be next. Yea, I know that eBay has those #8s and 24s up for auction, but read the fine print that

34 may 24-30, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper eujacksonville.com | may 24-30, 2007 35