2 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 LAGNIAPPE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• WEEKLY January 1, 2015 – January 7, 2015 | www.lagniappemobile.com

Ashley Trice BAY BRIEFS Co-publisher/Editor Beneficiaries of county lodging tax [email protected] proceeds have shifted from initial recipients. Rob Holbert Co-publisher/Managing Editor 5 [email protected] Steve Hall COMMENTARY Marketing/Sales Director 2015 promises to be a big year for the Port [email protected] City. Gabriel Tynes Assistant Managing Editor 8 [email protected] Dale Liesch BUSINESS Reporter Baldwin County surpasses Shelby as [email protected] the fastest growing in the state. Jason Johnson Reporter 14 [email protected] Alyson Stokes CUISINE Web & Social Media Manager/Reporter [email protected] Fine wine and food

Kevin Lee CONTENTS pairings at a low-key, Associate Editor/Arts Editor West Mobile hideout. [email protected] Andy MacDonald Cuisine Editor [email protected] Stephen Centanni Music Editor [email protected] J. Mark Bryant Sports Writer 15 [email protected] Daniel Anderson Chief Photographer COVER [email protected] The Mobile Housing Laura Rasmussen Board’s $750 million Art Director redevelopment plan may www.laurarasmussen.com 20 change the perception Brooke Mathis Advertising Sales Executive of public housing. [email protected] Beth Williams Advertising Sales Executive [email protected] Misty Groh Advertising Sales Executive [email protected] Melissa Schwarz ARTS Editorial Assistant The best gifts ever received couldn’t [email protected] be found in a catalog and never Contributors: stopped growing into something Asia Frey • Brian Holbert 22 greater. Susan Larsson • Ron Sivak Jeff Poor • Ken Robinson Casandra Butler Andrews MUSIC Chelsea Wallace • Clyde Foster Guitarist Rick Hirsch On the Cover: Columbia Parc, New retired from a career Orleans By Dan Anderson of touring to settle into

LAGNIAPPE (USPS 20) is published weekly, a home and recording 52 issues a year, Volume 12, Issue 46, every Thursday by Something, Extra Publishing, Inc. studio on the banks of Entered at the Mobile Post Office, 250 St. Joseph St, Mobile, AL, 36601. Dog River. Periodicals postage paid at Mobile Post Office, 250 St Joseph St., Mobile, AL 36601 and other locations. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Editorial, advertising and production offices are located at 1102A Dauphin St. 24 Mobile, AL 36604. Mailing address is P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Phone: 251.450.4466 Fax 251.450.4498. Email: ashley- [email protected] or FILM [email protected] Quirky “Frank” is one of the best movies LAGNIAPPE is printed at Signature Offset, 2610 Lakeview Road, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. of 2014. All letters sent to Lagniappe are considered to be intended for publication. 30 Member: Association of Alternative Newsweek- lies and Alternative Weeklies Network All rights reserved. Something Extra Publishing, MEDIA Inc. Nothing may be reprinted, photocopied or in any way reproduced without the expressed The longtime editor of the Mobile permission of the publishers. Individuals may take one copy of the paper free Press-Register is leaving the Alabama of charge from area businesses, racks or boxes. After that, papers are $3 per Media Group. issue. Removal of more than one copy 32 from these points constitutes theft. Violators are subject to prosecution. SPORTS Help support Lagniappe Weekly by becoming a “Friend with Benefits.” Events make GoDaddy Bowl more Scan this code for more info: 34 than just a football game. STYLE Organizing the physical chaos around you can make your life more 38 productive.

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 3 CorreC tion A couple of corrections were warranted in the article “‘Not even The actual lodging tax rate within the city of Mobile is 14 percent, one member’ supports lodging tax increase,” published in the which is derived from a 4 percent state tax, a 2 percent county tax Dec. 25, 2014 issue of Lagniappe. The article listed the lodging and an 8 percent city tax. The article also said the Mobile County tax rate within the city of Mobile at 17 percent, which was taken Commission’s planned soccer complex would cost $20.7 million from study conducted by HVS Consulting and Valuation Services in its first phase. However, that figure is actually the estimated that was obtained through the Mobile Area Lodging Association. cost of the facility’s first two phases.

PoliC e DisP atC h Body found in Mobile identified as missing Chickasaw man

BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

Last weekend a body found along the outskirts of Police are asking anyone with information about William’s death or disappearance to call 251- Mobile near Prichard was identified by authorities as that 425-2211. of 20-year-old Timothy Javon Williams, who was reported missing from Chickasaw earlier this month. The confirma- Burglaries, assaults reported during holidays tion came a day after Williams’ family members had dis- An assault was reported at the intersection of Garland and Peabody streets on Christmas Eve, closed the identity of the body to local television stations. where a male victim was shot in the ankle. According the authorities, an unknown black male According to Police, Williams was last seen in Prichard subject exited a gray Toyota Camry, and armed with a pistol, told the victim not to move. after being dropped off by his cousin, Dewon Dewayne The victim, who will remain unidentified, fled on foot and was shot in the ankle. The victim Jenkins, near the Gulf Village community. Police initially was treated at Providence Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. No arrests have been made in said they didn’t suspect Jenkins of any foul play in connec- the case. tion with Williams’ disappearance, but Prichard officials Three individuals were arrested for removing copper from an abandoned building at the Or- said last week that “foul play couldn’t be ruled out.” leans Place Apartments on Michael Boulevard last Friday, Dec. 26. Several unsuccessful attempts to contact Jenkins were also After the incident was reported, officers responded to find three male subjects running from made by authorities, and it’s not known at this time if he the scene. Two were immediately detained, and a K-9 unit responded and located the third suspect has been questioned. inside of another abandoned apartment building. Williams’ body was discovered near the Shelton Beach Eric Davis, 29, Jemiel Mitchell, 29, and Demario Stallworth, 27, were arrested and charged Photo/BCSO Road Extension, between Moffett Road and Bear Fork Road. with third degree burglary possession of burglary tools and attempting to elude police. Because the body was found in Mobile just past the border Williams of Prichard’s jurisdiction, the Mobile Police Department is investigating the case. Police yet to apprehend holiday thief As is typical this time of year, police in the area have received several reports of packages “This has been a strange case,” said Philip Stiell, chief of staff to Prichard Mayor Troy Eph- being stolen from people’s homes. On Christmas Eve, the Mobile Police Department asked the riam, who handled the case before the body was found. “It originated in Chickasaw and since he public for help catching one such “Grinch.” was last seen in Prichard, it became a Prichard case. With the body being found Mobile’s jurisdic- According to police, around noon Dec. 23, officers responded to Gold Mine Road for a report tion, their police department is handling the investigation at this point.” of a residential burglary. There, officers collected evidence linking 25-year-old James Markiese Officials with the Mobile Police Department said the results of an autopsy are pending, but did Wright to a burglary that included stolen Christmas gifts. As of Dec. 29, Wright had yet to be ap- confirm that case was being investigated as a homicide. A cause of death has yet to be released. prehended by authorities.

4 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 BAY BRIEFS BB Tax shifted from original intent BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

ounty Commission President Connie Hud- mine how the marketing fund would be spent, and son was told last week most of Mobile’s membership in the MALA slowly died off. hotel community wasn’t interested in an- “The committee just started breaking down,” other lodging tax increase to fund a 10-field Blackinton said. “This was at a time when there Csoccer complex, and some in the Mobile Area were only two county commissioners, and when Lodging Association (MALA) say that’s partially it came time to renew the contract with MBCVB due to issues that arose well before the current at one point, there was not two votes. We worked administration took office. very hard to try and restore the marketing fund, According to Chuck Cuff, a former president of which we did in 2010, but with very different MALA, a 2 percent county tax on lodging added in funding levels.” 2001 was the idea of the lodging association. How- Since then, Blackinton said the MALA’s mem- ever, some hoteliers today say the funding isn’t bership has grown significantly, but the county currently being used as it was originally intended started disseminating its lodging tax revenue to and instead is helping fund specific events and multiple organizations and events. Those include organizations instead of promoting general tourism the MBCVB, the Mobile Sports Authority (MSA), and conventions. the Reese’s Senior Bowl, the GoDaddy.com Bowl, The marketing fund, as it was formerly referred the Mobile Arts Council, the GulfQuest Maritime to, is something Cuff said a group of hotel manag- Museum and others to the tune of about $1.8 mil- ers started working on in 1998 to help fund tour- lion in 2014. However, many of the same events ism marketing. and organizations receive funding through the city “We canvassed every hotel, everyone that we of Mobile as well — though many of those “per- had in the association and hotels that were not in formance contracts” were cut or discontinued in the association were in favor of it, as long as it Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s proposed 2015 budget. was used for those things,” Cuff said. “We were A complete breakdown the county’s lodging tax expecting around $1.2 million. The marketing fund allocation is avaiable at lagniappemobile.com. would end up being capped at $1 million with the County officials were working to provide rest going to the county, which was fine.” a detailed list of the events that receive fund- Cuff said about half the money was used to ing through the lodging tax, but were unable to promote tourism, and the other half was used to provide it as of press deadline. Attempts to reach promote conventions at hotels. He also said the the city personnel for its exact contribution to the money was managed by a committee that included events were also unsuccessful. representatives from hotels in the downtown area However, it’s been previously reported that the hotels, those along Interstate 65 and those in the 2 percent county lodging tax yielded roughly $2.3 more rural parts of the county. million in 2014. According to an archived report from the Press- Of that, $280,000 went to the MBCVB, and al- Register, the county first started sending “a large most $600,000 went to the Mobile Sports Author- share of its (lodging) tax receipts to the Mobile ity through contracts with the county — contracts Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau in 2007.” The that according to MSA Director Danny Corte have report said the bureau then created a six-member indeed helped generate significant tourism for area. committee to make recommendations for spending Corte said the sports authority receives $150,000 the money that included three hotel operators, for operations and $265,000 for bidding on events someone from a local tourist attraction and repre- annually from the lodging tax. Another $180,000 sentatives from the county and the MBCVB. is passed through MSA to the Mobile Tennis As- However, Cuff claims a committee was sociation. overseeing the spending from the marketing fund Corte said sports tourism is the fastest growing before he left the industry in 2003, one that wasn’t form of tourism in the Mobile area, and according set up to pass money through to the MBCVB. to data collected by the MSA, 37 sporting events According previous reports, county commission- generated an estimated $62 million in economic ers entertained the idea of cutting $1 million from impact in Mobile County last year alone. MBCVB in 2007 after some hotel operators com- Despite the MSA’s purported success, some plained about how the money was being allotted. hoteliers are still concerned about the way the plan However, those discussions didn’t yield a change to disseminate the tax changed overtime. in policy at the time. Blackinton told Lagniappe earlier that only “(The marketing fund) was set up not just to about 12 percent of the tax makes its way to give money to [the convention bureau], but to marketing lodging establishments, which is far give events to the hotels, and that’s what we had a from 85 percent he claims hotels in the area used criteria for,” Cuff said. “We didn’t just give money to benefit from. However, county officals weren’t to anybody that approached us, it had to benefit at able to identify any documentation that guranteed least three hotels and guarantee X amount of room that figure exclusively to hotel marketing. nights and so on.” Despite the lack of a written agreement, Cuff After the county agreed to the lodging tax said the current way the funding is spent is in increase, the city of Mobile added a 2 percent in- conflict with what hoteliers had in mind when they crease of its own to help fund, among other things, first discussed adding a tax to their own industry the construction of the University of South Ala- in 2000. bama Mitchell Cancer Institute in 2005. Together, “The marketing fund committee probably the two increases brought the lodging tax in the wouldn’t have approved funding a sports event city up to 14 percent, where it remains today. at that point,” Cuff said. “We were promoting the Cuff said when he left the industry in 2003, the county as a whole for tourism and conventions. We committee was still controlling all of the market- weren’t sponsoring events. We weren’t sponsoring ing funding that was generated from the 2 percent organizations. That was never the original intent of tax, but According to Cuff, when he returned to the the marketing fund.” business in 2008 the funding was “in disarray.” Cuff said, at the time, the hotels move to self- Around the same time, marketing funding to tax was unprecedented and took a lot of ground- the MBCVB was entirely eliminated for a period of two years, which reports show was the result of work from managers. He also said it was a system discrepancies between the lodging association, the that worked well for a number of years. MBCVB, the county and the city of Mobile. “It was an idea by the hoteliers that was put in Current MALA president Kent Blackinton said place and worked,” Blackinton said. “But, the way over time the committee stopped meeting to deter- it’s being spent now, it just not what the orginal intent was.” LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 5 BAY BRIEFS BB Adult children of retirees latest cut from city insurance BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

hildren of city retirees will ring in the New Year without who are easiest to insure. that he’s not certain of any recourse the retirees have, if any. city-sponsored health insurance. It is unclear how many families would be affected by the Stimpson had originally cut Medicare-eligible retirees from As of Jan. 1, retirees children ages 19-26 will no longer move, but Dwayne Patrick, president of the local firefighters the city’s healthcare plan completely in his proposed 2015 budget. be on the city’s health insurance, Executive Director of union, said the change affects 40 to 50 families, including the Instead of covering the retirees, the administration offered them CFinance Paul Wesch said. families of at least two retired firefighters. The city did not supply a $175 monthly subsidy for four years to pay for a supplemental While plans covered by the Affordable Care Act require chil- numbers of those affected. plan. In addition, the proposed budget raised the monthly premi- dren be covered under their parents’ insurance until age 26, the The wife of a city retiree told Lagniappe on the condition ums for retirees not eligible for Medicare. The premiums were set retirees’ plan is not covered by the ACA, Wesch said. In general, of anonymity that she and her husband got a letter stating their to increase from $54 to $103 for single coverage and from $140 to ACA has made the city’s health coverage more costly, Wesch said, 20-year-old daughter — currently a college student — would be $210 for family coverage. “therefore adult children are no longer covered.” dropped from the city’s insurance. Retirees expressed their displeasure with this proposal and He said the move was recommended by an insurance consul- Patrick called the move wrong and said he doesn’t think it af- even started a Facebook page to help gain support for their cause. tant. fects enough employees to account for a large enough savings. During budget negotiations in September, the Mobile City “We do what we can to keep costs down,” he said. “The num- “I don’t think it’s a significant amount of money the city is sav- Council voted to take money from the capital budget to fund ber (of those affected) is relatively small, but it’s significant in ing,” he said. “I don’t know the savings it will bring the city, but I insurance for retirees for another year. Stimpson vetoed the move, terms of cost.” don’t think it’ll make a difference.” but the veto was overridden. Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s Chief of Staff Colby Cooper said the Patrick said many of those affected could purchase COBRA retirees were notified through letters and the move affects those coverage, which can cost as much as five times more. He added Bayou council defends lack of transparency allegations BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

empers escalated at the close of the Bayou la Batre City Downing also brought up the city’s recently missed insurance plan and ain’t nothing you can do about it.” Council’s last meeting, as conversations about governmen- payment to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, which left Coleman went on to say, “it doesn’t matter if you get the infor- tal transparency and communication overshadowed the the city’s employees without health insurance coverage for more mation, you’ve still got to bring it up. So, what is it?” regular business of the meeting. than a month — an incident the city hasn’t discussed publicly with TTerry Downing, a member of the city’s housing board, spoke the exception of a Lagniappe interview last month. However, it is Amnesty for late garbage payments about a lack of transparency he claims is coming from the council important to note city officials did discuss the issue with individ- After the Utilities Board of Bayou la Batre voted to cease col- and Mayor Brett Dungan, saying he sensed an “us versus them lecting garbage services fees for the city in May, the city had to mentality.” scramble to come up with way to handle the new task. His statements eventually grew into a conversation about the The fees stayed the same, but a $25 late fee was added, which availability of public information and the council’s regular meet- almost immediately drew criticism from some members of the ing schedule. community because the garbage fee itself is only $18. “Where there’s a lack of transparency, there’s a huge political According to members of the city’s staff, there are more than advantage.” Downing said. “That’s why we’d like the (council’s) $2,000 in fees currently owed to the city. As a result, in January, work session to be held on a different night.” the city is allowing all late fees to be waived if a customer’s ac- Currently, the council holds its regular work sessions only an count is brought up to date. Officials said this is the only time the hour before regular meetings at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth amnesty would be offered. Thursdays of each month, and a finalized agenda is written in Additionally, a new tiered system was adopted for late fees between the two meetings. associated with garbage payments. Now, payments that are one- Those who have addressed the council about the issue in the to-30 days late will be charged a $5 fee, payments 31-to-60 days past say the limited time doesn’t give the public adequate time to late will be charged $10 and those more than 60 days late will be analyze and “digest” the council’s business before action is taken. charged a $15 fee. In the past, city officials have cited scheduling and the amount Changes to the ordinance also included a provision allowing of the council’s time already taken up as reasons for continuing residents above age 65 and whose only income is from Social the same-day meeting practices. Despite the discussion, no action Security to be exempt from collection fees. was taken on the issue Dec. 18. Residents who wish to qualify for the exemption would also Downing said other municipalities in the area televise meet- Photo/Gabriel Tynes need to apply at the Mobile County Health Department sometime ings, but residents of Bayou la Batre have struggled to get during the month of January. advanced agendas. The Bayou la Batre City Council meets in 2014. City Attorney Bill Wasden said the changes would only apply Councilwoman Annette Johnson said, “unfortunately we don’t to households, but noted the city is also working toward a compre- have the manpower or the level of funding (those) cities have,” hensive overhaul of household and commercial garbage policies, but said she and the rest of the city’s officials are glad to work ual employees who contacted the city about problems with their which he said would incorporate certain aspects of the city of with anyone on a specific issue. insurance policies. Mobile’s sanitation practices. Johnson said lately some citizens have been making very Though no councilmembers openly discussed the “clerical detailed and lengthy requests with no clear purpose given for why error” that led to the missed payment during the meeting, Johnson Resignation, ‘forced retirement’ in administration they would need such extensive public records. discussed a “situation” that occurred during the same month. The council also accepted the resignation and retirement of As- “If you’ve got a specific concern, we’ll be glad to address that, “We didn’t bring that dirty laundry out here because we don’t sistant City Clerk Chad Seamans and Building Inspector Tommy but if you’re coming down here to shop for the entire ballpark, consider it dirty laundry. It’s not dirty laundry,” Johnson said. “It’s Reynoso, respectfully. it’s going to take us a while to pull that package together for just an event that occurred, and we’ve set legal ramifications in Seamans hasn’t publicly discussed the circumstances of his res- you,” Johnson said. “We’re not going to try to hold any informa- place to prevent that from happening again.” ignation, but its acceptance was retroactive from Dec. 12. Under tion back from anyone, but we need to narrow it down so that Councilwoman Ida Mae Coleman used her closing comments the guidelines of the Mobile County Personnel Board, he would we aren’t sending our folks that are already overworked out on a to discuss what she calls “people that waste time trying to hinder be prevented from being rehired because of a failure to provide a goose chase.” the programs” the city is working towards by requesting informa- two-week notice. Johnson said some have requested the city provide detailed tion. Seamans, who has worked with the city for eight years, also lists of checks and receipts for purchases made over entire year, Coleman said she didn’t mind people attempting to get infor- turned down a proposition from Johnson to “consider a long term which she called “a fishing game.” mation, but said that information has “got to go through the city leave of absence” instead of resigning. “It’s available. It’s public knowledge, but for what purpose and the City Council.” The agenda for the work sessions originally listed Reynoso, would you want these documents?” Johnson asked. “Why do you “It’s a train moving, whether you want to get on that train is up a 14-year employee of the city, as resigning. However, Reynoso need the receipt for every light bulb we’ve purchased or every- to you, but it’s pulling out,” Coleman said. “This town is moving spoke out during the meeting to say it should be classified as a thing we’ve gotten from the auto parts store, other than to say forward and there ain’t a thing nobody can do about it cause it’s “forced retirement.” we spent it? That’s like an audit itself, and we already pay for an God’s plan. I prayed about, I saw it — so don’t waste your time Though he didn’t so say who, Reynoso said someone asked audit. It’s about $18,000 a year.” trying to hinder this program, because like I said God is in the him to retire as of Dec. 31, and he chose to comply.

6 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 BAY BRIEFS BB Lower student test scores indicative of ‘shift in measurement’ BY ALYSON STOKES/REPORTER | [email protected]

arlier this month, Alabama — the first state to adopt an focuses less on multiple-choice questions and more on open- scored lower in the reading and math averages, but excelled in all-ACT college readiness testing format — released some response questions, and “meaningful, honest feedback” to ensure English by scoring higher than the benchmark. of the data collected from last spring’s standardized testing, students are on track. While Mobile County students’ scores in reading and math were and the results are helping educators get a better idea of The ALSDE said moving to the new system was challenging lower than the new averages set by ACT, the scores were compa- Ehow students in the state are learning. for the educators and students, but due to the increased rigor of rable to the national average when ranked with other schools. The scores are categorized in terms of “exceeding,” “ready,” the assessments, it maintains perceptions of “drops in scores” are Further, the Baldwin County school system also released its “close” and “in need of support” for students in grades 3-8 for misguided — calling them instead, “a shift in measurement.” test results in a different format by using bar graphs comparing the reading and mathematics. Statewide percentages showed a need According to the state, only one in five Alabama high school grad- system’s data with state’s data by using three scores with the terms for improvement, with less than 50 percent of students in their uates was ready for college based on the ACT College Readiness “meets or exceeds ACT benchmark,” “close to meeting ACT respective grades scoring “ready” for entry-level college courses Benchmarks in 2013, and one in three college students required benchmark,” and “in need of support.” related to the tested subject areas of reading and math. remedial classes in math, English or both. “While we recognize that there is room for improvement, we “These results provide a new baseline for students’ achieve- “Numbers like this present a significant problem,” the release did exceed the state percentages for students meeting or exceed- ment,” State Superintendent Tommy Bice said in a news release. reads. “Just four years from now we can expect to see 82 percent ing the ACT benchmark in every grade level in both subjects,” “The results are not comparable to previous assessments as they of jobs in the state require some type of postsecondary education, Baldwin County schools spokesman Terry Wilhite said. are more rigorous and challenging, aligned to new standards whether that is a four-year degree, a two-year degree or industry In reading, 54 percent of Baldwin eighth-graders scored “meets and expectations for students. Clearly, we must own the areas in certification.” or exceeds ACT benchmark,” which is above the eighth-grade which we need improvement as it is our goal to make sure all of The ACT Aspire represents a significant change from how stu- statewide results. In math, every grade level scored above the Alabama’s students graduate prepared for the world which awaits dent achievement has been defined and will change how student “meets or exceeds ACT benchmark” statewide results, with the highest scores coming from third graders with 59 percent scoring them after high school. We are proud of educators and students for and school performance is reported in the future. Student ability is “meets or exceeds.” teaching, learning, and aspiring to meet the challenges of higher not suddenly dropping with the shift to the new tests. Instead, the A total of 334,573 students across the state took the ACT academic standards.” expectation of what students must know and be able to do on state Aspire assessment. The tests are administered in late spring during assessments has become more rigorous. In 2013, the Alabama State Board of Education began working the closing weeks of the school year to ensure student learning with ACT to establish benchmark measures for the state’s new Bice said that was because the academic expectations of Ala- continues as long as possible. college and career-ready standards — standards mostly comprised bama’s students have been too low in the past. In May, the Mobile County Public School System was the of the controversial Common Core State Standards adopted by 46 “This is the tough medicine we need to take if we’re going to first district to give the test entirely online. In an interview with states and the District of Columbia. make sure students are really ready to compete for tomorrow’s Lagniappe at the time, MCPSS Supervisor of Marketing and Last spring, students in grades 3 through 8 took the first year jobs against people from all over the world,” Bice said. “The Partnerships Rena Philips said the flexible online schedule allows of new assessments aligned to Common Core, the ACT Aspire, in good news is, our students and teachers can and will rise to the classes to take the test when it’s convenient for teachers and their place of the Alabama Reading and Math Test (ARMT). occasion. Soon we will see an upward trend in the percentage of lesson plans. The press release from the Alabama State Department of students who are truly college-and-career ready.” The online format will also significantly reduce the time it Education said the state “had a real need to move to higher-level In conjunction with the release of statewide data, Mobile and takes teachers to return the results from testing. Next year, school tests,” prompting the unilateral move to ACT. Baldwin county public schools followed suit days later by disclos- districts expect to receive results within 40 days after the testing The change in elementary and junior high testing came the ing their respective district’s scores. window ends. same year Alabama’s juniors took the ACT, a college entrance However, MCPSS officials chose only to release numbers exam, for the first time. According to the ALSDE, the ACT Aspire for the “ready” and “close” categories, which revealed students Jason Johnson contributed to this report. CASA program supports children in legal limbo BY CHELSEA WALLACE/CONTRIBUTOR

group of volunteers in Alabama works tirelessly and often go to their home as well. If they’re school-aged, we go to school through DHR. without recognition to care for a group often seen as pow- with them, we talk to their teachers. We just infiltrate their lives to “We’ve got about 500 new cases every year, and I have 30 vol- erless in times of distress: children. get to what the truth really is,” Cotrell said. unteers … So, they might work two or three cases a year, so we’re Alabama Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Once they have compiled enough information and the family’s talking about 90 children out of 500,” Walter said. seekA to find children in difficult situations — particularly abuse court date comes around, CASA volunteers offer their unbiased, The long term effects a CASA volunteer can have on a child and neglect — and offer them a sense of hope and power as they personal opinions regarding what decision would create the best transcends home life. According to AlabamaCASA.org, children endure the legal battles of their guardians. result for the welfare of the child in question. with CASA advocates spend less time in the foster care system “Some of them will break your heart, but in the end when the “The judges here are very supportive of our program. They as a whole and experience more success in school. Additionally, case goes to court, you know that had you not been involved, it feel like we’re really filling a gap they needed. We certainly don’t CASA advocates typically spend more time with the child than a may not have turned out the way it did. Nobody else speaks for tell them what to do, but they do take what we say seriously. They guardian ad litem, offering them a “consistent, responsible adult the children. They have a guardian ad litem, who is an attorney, take our recommendations seriously. I’d say around 90 percent of presence.” and that person speaks of their legal rights, but not necessarily the time, our recommendation gets followed, because it’s usually a The work, though essential and noble, often affects advocates their personal rights and what they believe will be best for the common sense recommendation. If it doesn’t, there was probably child,” Sherrie Cotrell, a four-year advocate with CASA, said. a legal issue as to why,” Walter explained. emotionally. Cotrell explains that though she loves the work and Founded as a national organization in 1976, Mobile’s program Walter has been with the Mobile program almost since its receives so much satisfaction from helping the children, seeing the was founded in 1997. The organization fosters an ideal to “ensure inception, joining as an advocate volunteer in the fall of 1997. She conditions they endure can be devastating. Similarly, Walter finds that every abused, neglected and/or abandoned child in Alabama became the volunteer coordinator in August 2000 and finally took herself frustrated at encountering the same negative situations has a competent, caring volunteer appointed to advocate for the over the position of executive director in 2002. over and over again, watching children suffer through the same child’s best interest in court,” as stated on the official website. The value of providing neglected children a safe, loving home problems. “The program in Mobile sort of works as a gap-filler, you originally drew Walter to the program and continues to motivate In the end, volunteers take comfort in their role of helping the might say, for what DHR does,” Executive Director Elizabeth her to expand the initiative. child escape whatever troubles they can. Walter said. “There are a lot of cases where family members will “I think it was just the idea of making sure that these kids had “The most rewarding part is knowing that you have protected go and they’ll file their own petitions instead of through DHR, a safe place to grow up like I did. I was very blessed to have the a child from something that very possibly could have happened. where the allegations are the same but might not be at a level parents I had, so I just wanted to make sure I passed that on,” Seeing the child happy and healthy and doing great,” Cotrell said. where DHR would open a case file. If the judge didn’t have a Walter said. “You’ve given them the best chance they can possibly have to CASA volunteer going out and looking at the home situation of As with many nonprofits, funding remains one of the main go on and have a productive life,” Walter said. “I always wonder these kids, he wouldn’t have anybody in court except the two needs with the Mobile CASA organization. Currently, CASA about them. Their names run through my head all the time and I parties who are spinning it their way. With us, he has an objective raises money through fundraisers and yearly events, also putting wonder what’s happened with them.” third party who’s checking the situation out and giving him factual grant funds to use. Mobile’s program is currently maxed out at Walter also stressed the dire need for more community aware- information about what’s really going on.” 30 advocates, the most allowed under Walter’s lone supervision. ness of and involvement with CASA for the organization to con- When two parties battle it out in court — usually centered Without additional funds to hire more supervisory staff, such as tinue to grow and thrive. Private donations help with operations, around allegations of substance abuse, domestic abuse, or neglect another director, the program can take on no more volunteers. and Alabama CASA offers a Sustaining Partner program, which — an objective voice becomes the most important factor in Each volunteer usually handles one (or sometimes two) cases at ensures that contributions go directly to helping local children as providing a stable, healthy solution for the child. To perform that a time, and cases can take anywhere from six months to a year to efficiently as possible. role, advocates diligently shadow the child and collect as much be completed. Unable to take on more advocates, many cases and For more information about the Alabama CASA program, information as possible. many children that could benefit from their involvement go without. “We get to know the child, and I spend a lot of time with the With around 1,000 total cases filed in Mobile County on a including how to get involved or send a donation, visit Alabam- child in the home. If it’s an allegation against another parent, we yearly basis, approximately half are private petitions not filed aCASA.org and CASAMobile.org.

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 7 D AMN THE TORPEDOES COMMENTARY C The New Year truly has a lot on tap BY ROB HOLBERT/MANAGING EDITOR | [email protected]

y the time the final bullets have hit the out, so it’s tough to get a real bead on why Along the same lines, the I-10 bridge ground in the minutes following the stroke there seems to be a new delay every six over the Mobile River should also see of midnight New Year’s Eve, we must months. movement towards getting started. It’s begin looking forward. I’ll go along with the latest info and another project whose total will come in BEven as the last strains of “Macho Man” have say 2015 is the year GulfQuest will finally close to $1 billion and should create a seri- echoed down the concrete canyons of downtown, open, although I’m not going to bet any ous economic impact during the multi-year the future will be upon us. favorite organs that will happen. If it does, construction. As the electronic MoonPie is hoisted back up though, we’ll finally start to get an idea Other less high-profile projects we’ll be the side of its skyscraper where it will perch until of what the maritime museum is going to looking at in 2015 include County Com- next year when another over-the-hill band picks mean to the city, specifically downtown. missioner Connie Hudson’s much-talked- up its instruments ... never mind. You get the idea. We’ve long been told GQ should draw about efforts to build a $40 million soccer/ The year ahead stands as a big one for our fair 350,000 annually, which would make it natatorium/water park near the junction burg. Yes, I say that every year, but some years I by far the largest attraction in Mobile and of Interstates 10 and 65. The plan has the mean it more than others. I really, really mean it would also provide a terrific shot in the community split, but by the end of this this year. (Fingers uncrossed.) arm for downtown in general and nearby year we should probably have a good idea If nothing else, by the time Fred Richardson businesses and attractions specifically. whether it’s going to happen or not. gets puffed up like a peacock again over the Whether those numbers are achievable — We’ll also see the city’s first skateboard MoonPie Drop, this city should be producing pas- will a family of four be willing to shell out park moving towards reality this year, so senger jets. Yes, that’s this year! I know it seems $68 to see what’s there? — can only start go ahead and dye your mohawk and ink like just yesterday it was announced Mobile being answered once the doors open. your forearms. It’s time. would be building Airbusesesses, but we’re with- If organizers are right, GQ could really On top of that the city is working plans in shouting distance of that coming to fruition. If start to provide a big boost in the second up for a market place in Mardi Gras Park all goes as expected, the wrenches will be turning half of 2015. near Government Plaza downtown. Hopes and rivet guns riveting in time for someone to be Another major project that will still there are to eventually foster the type of cracking a cold bottle of malt liquor across the only be in the drawing board-phases in market so many people enjoy in New nose of one of those bad boys in early 2016. 2015 is Mobile Housing Authority’s move Orleans. There has to be some kind of swelling of civic to totally change public housing along And who knows, 2015 might even be pride — really any kind of civic swelling is wel- Michigan Avenue near I-10. It’s going to the year someone figures out what to do come — to think little ol’ Mobile is making jetlin- take several years for this project to reach with our empty cruise terminal. ers. Alongside the cool ships they’re building at fulfillment, but the plans will be drawn out Like I said, there’s a lot on tap. The Austal — the ones that look like Darth Vader’s this year and at roughly $750 million, it’s Village People may not even recognize us idea of a yacht — we’ve got a couple of things to going to be a major undertaking. when they come back next year. brag about. I’m not knocking any other industries around here, it just doesn’t blow up too many people’s skirts to say we produce lots of lumber, chemicals or smartass newspapers. It sounds like it takes really smart people to put airplanes together, almost like we’re building spaceships. At least I The Gadfly like to think so when I’m at 40,000 feet trying to see how many beers you can drink before Delta cuts you off. That’s when you really like to think, “I bet some smart s.o.b. bolted this thing together. And made that beverage cart too.” So in 2015 we’ll be one of the few cities in the world building passenger jets. While the jets are Mobile’s fancy new haircut, so to speak, there are other things in the works that, even if they aren’t completed in 2015, should show progress. Perhaps the biggest of those is GulfQuest National Maritime Museum. We were already supposed to have seen the “soft opening” for GulfQuest by now, but at least one board member says it’s a lot more likely to be March for the soft opening and very late spring before its grand opening. Still, for a project that would be just about three years late if it does open around June, any opening has to be a positive. It’s often difficult to discover exactly why there’ve been so many delays at GulfQuest. At this time last year we were told it would be sum- mer of 2014. In October 2013 it was just a “few months” away. In April of 2014 we were told it would be opening fairly soon. While tens of millions in taxpayer dollars have been sunk into the project, it is organized as a non-profit 501 C3 and head honcho Tony Zodrow Cartoon/Laura Rasmussen gets pretty butch when you start asking too many questions about what’s up. We wanted to get a look at where things are currently, but he shut us GulfQuest Museum may finally open this year.

8 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 HIDDEN AGENDA COMMENTARY C Saying Good Riddance to the demons of 2014 BY ASHLEY TRICE/EDITOR | [email protected]

here is nothing I love more during the holiday season as “Frozen’s” Queen Elsa would sing, “Let it go, Let it go.” truly believe there are many, many people of all races who want than getting my Christmas tree all set up and decorated So sometime between dismantling my Christmas tree and to figure out how to bridge this divide once and for all, but it’s — except well, taking it down. Even though I love gaz- watching the MoonPie drop, I think I will be extracting some hard to know where to even start. ing at the pretty lights and ornaments I have collected my sadness, hurt, bitterness and anxiety from my own soul and While it was not along racial or even party lines, the argu- Tentire life, there is something almost cleansing about breaking saying sayonara to it. I may even burn it in the fire pit if I get ing between Mobile County Commissioners Connie Hudson her down, packing it all up and exiling the boxes to the attic for really crazy. and Jerry Carl over a proposed soccer complex was even more 11 months. It’s the first step to the New Year and a fresh start. But it also got me to thinking about what we — as a com- vicious. At times, I just wanted to scream like I do at my kids, Perhaps that’s why I found an event held in New York’s munity — should “shred” as well. I don’t know about y’all, “Stop and go to your rooms!” (I didn’t bother. Because like said Times Square last weekend so intriguing. It was called Good but I am ready to shove 2014 out the door on so many different kids, I’m sure they would have just ignored me.) Riddance Day. Organizers asked people to bring a picture or levels. Look guys, I understand you both have your positions and document of something that had been troubling them all year. It have to defend them, but it seems like it’s going beyond that could be the picture of a “significant other that turned out to be now. Sing “Auld Lang Syne” and then sit down together and not so significant,” a credit card, student loan or mortgage bill We all carry some level of literally find some common ground. I guess said ground has that had been paid off or health records that signified a trium- been decided upon already, but maybe you guys can at least phant defeat of an illness or hope for that defeat. hurt feelings, anxiety, sadness decide on the type of ground it is. (It’s swamp. No it’s not. Yes Or you could just jot something down on a piece of paper — it is. No it’s not.) anything that had caused you some sort of distress or pain in the and/or festering anger around with us I don’t care what kind of line it’s along, I really am so ready previous year. Then the document shredding company Shred-it, about a variety of things — from prob- to say good riddance to the arguing of 2014 and see some things tossed it in a giant shredder for you and got rid of the problem, get done in 2015. so to speak. lems at home or the office to lingering In addition to the bickering, we also saw a popular leader ac- Shred-it and forget it, they chanted. cused of corruption, the cruise terminal sit another year without Though this is nothing more than a genius marketing move issues with family or friends. a ship and GulfQuest get delayed again. And there are plenty of for this company, I really like the sentiment. It’s based on a things we can jot down on our list to shred. Latin New Year’s tradition where people stuffed dolls with It was a year marked by divisions, disappointments and utter But without a doubt the most heartbreaking event of 2014 objects representing bad memories and burned them. tragedy. we experienced as a community was the death of 8-year-old It made me think it would probably do us all good to fire up The Mobile City Council battled with the new mayor, often Hiawayi Robinson. When I think about the way she died – if our lighters or office shredders and do a little cleansing of our along racial lines about such things as water board and fire chief she did in fact die the way the authorities have alleged – I get own this New Year — even if it’s just metaphorically. appointments. It was disheartening to see these issues devolve overwhelmed with emotion. I really can’t even think of any- We all carry some level of hurt feelings, anxiety, sadness and twisted into false narratives at times. thing more awful. And words like awful and terrible and hor- and/or festering anger around with us about a variety of things I really never thought anyone – much less our city lead- rible and unspeakable just don’t even seem to be potent enough — from problems at home or the office to lingering issues with ers — would still be arguing along “racial lines” in the year to describe what happened to this pretty little girl last seen while family or friends. Sometimes we know exactly what is bother- 2014. If you told me that 20 years ago, I would have called you wearing a Hello Kitty shirt. ing us, and sometimes I don’t even think we realize we are har- crazy. But unfortunately we are, not only in this community but I definitely want to say good riddance to thinking what that boring such ill inside. Some of these things we may be able to nationwide, with events like Ferguson only serving to remind poor child went through. But hopefully, in 2015 we can say address, but some we may not able to do anything about, except us we still have such a long way to go. It’s frustrating because I hello to bringing her killer to justice, among other good things.

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 9 BELTWAY BEAT COMMENTARY C No, Jeff Sessions shouldn’t run for president in 2016 BY JEFF POOR/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

WASHINGTON – Last month, Sen. Jeff contrasted with the other 2016 Republican Sessions conceded any claims on the 114th hopefuls, including Rick Perry and Jeb Congress’ Senate Budget Committee chair- Bush, two very successful governors, and manship, conceding the powerful position Ted Cruz and Rand Paul, two of the more to his friend Sen. Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.). outspoken members of the U.S. Senate. The moment Republicans clinched What it would come to is beyond control of the Senate on election night, media bringing home funding to the state of outlets around the state of Alabama specu- Alabama, what has Sessions proactively lated on the limitless possibilities of Sessions accomplished in the U.S. Senate? To be and Sen. Richard Shelby as two chairmen of fair, Sessions didn’t enjoy seniority within powerful committees, with Shelby in charge the Republican caucus when his part had of the Senate Banking Committee. control of the body and during his more But to the dismay of Alabamians and outspoken times over the last few years, to a lot of the rank and file within the when the Republicans were in the minor- conservative movement, Alabama’s junior ity, which made it even more difficult for senator laid to rest any such ambitions. him to stand out. “My good friend Mike and I have been If Sessions actually had presidential close since we both entered the Senate ambitions, he might be better served wait- together 18 years ago,” Sessions said in a ing until 2020 (assuming an incumbent statement announcing the decision. “We Republican isn’t running), which would will long remain good and close friends. put him running for the high office at age We have talked and I am deferring to his 74. That’s five years older than Reagan seniority so that he can lead the Budget was in 1980 when he ran. But should it be Committee as its chairman beginning in 2020, Sessions is only 10 months older 2015. Mike graciously deferred to me than likely 2016 Democratic presidential two years ago after he timed out on HELP hopeful Hillary Clinton. as ranking member, and it has been my But even then, it still seems like a enormous privilege to serve as the panel’s longshot. ranking member these last four years, as There are one or two possible routes for well as to serve as the judiciary ranking Sessions to set himself up for higher office. member for the two years before that.” But it would mean Sessions doing it not The backroom scuttlebutt was that the while in office as a U.S. senator. Republican leadership, mainly soon-to-be Let’s say Republicans choose to nomi- Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell nate Jeb Bush, Marco Rubio, Mitt Romney (R-Ky.), didn’t want someone like Jeff or any other run-of-the-mill, so-called Sessions upsetting the applecart by using “Republican establishment type” as the the federal budget to obstruct any sort of 2016 nominee. There could be a need for immigration reform measures put in place someone to balance out the ticket so that by the Obama administration, or be seen it might appeal to the more conservative as an obstructionist if the Republican-led wing of the GOP. majorities in the House and Senate come Sessions would be a good candidate together to do their own version of immi- for vice president. He would bring the gration legislation. bona fides that would motivate the more There has been some talk of an unlikely conservative types to participate in the Sessions 2016 candidacy, which at this 2016 election, which is much like John point is nothing more than a right-wing McCain did when he chose Sarah Palin pipedream. Sessions has been mentioned as his running mate in the 2008 cycle. He over years by the likes of conservative would also have a working knowledge of pundits, including talk show host Laura the U.S. Senate, which seems to be what Ingraham and conservative author Ann then-candidate Barack Obama was aiming Coulter. for when he picked then-Sen. Joe Biden as But if Sessions won’t take up a fight for his running mate. the lesser position of Senate Budget Com- That would certainly put Sessions in mittee chairman, why should base voters in line for the presidency. But even if that the Republican Party rally behind him in a doesn’t happen, Sessions would be a prime presidential primary? candidate for attorney general, having Sessions has demonstrated a willingness served in the Justice Department and as to take to the floor of the Senate and air his AG in Alabama. opinions on legislation for the congressio- Unlike his 1986 appointment to the nal record, adding every little meticulous federal bench by Reagan, it would be hard detail to back up his concerns. He’s also to see the Democrats in the U.S. Senate successfully thwarted previous immigra- opposing one of their former colleagues of tion reform efforts in the U.S. Senate. 20 years in January 2017. That also might But if you’re running for president, it is elevate his stature as a potential candidate. about what you’ve accomplished, not what For now, 2016 isn’t Sessions time. But you’ve prevented from being accomplished. there’s still time for Alabama’s arguably That would be a major hurdle for most popular politician to elevate himself Sessions to overcome if he were to be to the national stage.

10 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 COMMENTARY C Applying lessons from 2014 BY KEN ROBINSON/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ften it’s death that gives renewed clarity, focus, and purpose to life. This is espe- cially true as I look back on 2014, as the departure from this life of several trea- Osured souls has given cause for deep reflection. Robin Williams, for example, was considered larger than life itself! His comedic genius was of a rarefied sort, and his deep well of energy and enthusiasm allowed him to entertain on stage or screen at a sometime dizzying, and all-consum- ing level. His zeal to make others laugh seemed to communicate a boundless supply of inner joy and zest for life that would leave me, and I’m sure many others, simply amazed. Yet, it was a mask. That deep well of energy and enthusiasm also contained, unfortunately, an unending sup- ply of depression and unhappiness that eventu- ally became too much for him to bear. Like others before and some people even today, Robin Williams shared a view of life so poignantly, yet sadly espoused by the German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer: “life is an endless pain with a painful end.” The man who for me, since I was a little child, epitomized a child-like embrace of life, full of laughter and Photo/Facebook wonder, often felt only sorrow and sadness throughout his sojourn here. 16-year-old Raven Hamilton was His passing brought home to me the biblical shot and killed in December. admonition to “bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Among other things, workers, students, and members of the commu- implicit in this law is bringing unconditional nity just weeks ago at a candlelight vigil held in light and love to those around us, taking the honor of slain 16 year-old Murphy High School time to understand one another deeply. In doing student Raven Hamilton, I saw how delicate and so, we are more apt to be an able and effective precarious life can be. A mother and father have listening ear and shoulder to lean on for those to bury a child — something so seemingly con- suffering with painful, internal darkness. It’s trary to life’s order — while her friends forced true that some emotional pains are so deep and to confront the reality of mortality much sooner profound that medical intervention may also be than they should have to, and a community once necessary, but it’s also been proven again and again grieving because of innocence lost due again that nothing can touch a human heart like to violence and depravity. Yet, as I stood there the loving, understanding embrace of another amidst the sadness and mourning, rays of hope human heart. shone through something initiated that night The passing of another this year highlights called: Raven’s Promise. A challenge that many that not only can the human heart harbor a students accepted to “act and not react, and lonely, painful inner darkness, but also a sordid handle all situations in a non-violent way.” and abhorrent darkness that’s hard to fathom. As an educator, my days are filled with in- Little Haiwayi Robinson’s body was found after teractions amongst those who resolutely recited an exhaustive two-day search that consumed not the Raven’s Promise pledge. What better way to only the panicked and shocked minds of the citi- honor this vibrant and happy young lady’s life zens of Prichard and Mobile County, but those than to model the type of behavior many teenag- of the state and nation. Hoping for the best, our ers committed to live that night, and help keep worst fears and apprehensions were confirmed that promise fresh in their mind. upon the discovery of her body, cruelly discard- 2014 not only has encouraged me to be an ed on a blighted roadside. Whose heart could be example for and help motivate our young, but so dementedly dark? It seems her father’s. has renewed my appreciation for the debt owed He sits in jail now accused of extinguishing to our elders. Noble Beasley passed in October. her life in a way that, as a father myself, I can’t Having spent most of his adult life in prison for even begin to wrap my mind around. Haiwayi’s reasons that are still clouded with controversy, death brings home the importance of protecting Beasley’s legacy is nevertheless that of a vocal the most vulnerable among us — the little ones and relentless advocate for black equality in who are so innately trusting, forgiving and lov- Mobile. Like many who labored during the civil ing. Their little minds incapable of understand- rights era, it seemed as though various forces ing the vicious darkness that can exist in some were marshaled to assure silence or marginaliza- grown-ups. tion, making it clear that often standing for right In 2015, Haiwayi Robinson’s hurtful absence is fraught with adversity and trouble. serves as a motivator to be more aware and As I stand on the threshold of a new year, the guarded when it comes to my child and other memory of these lives and the circumstances of children who have a consistent presence in my their passing serve as a means to value each day life. Just as important, to support causes and and apply purpose and meaning to each one. The agencies like the local Child Advocacy Center New Year is not only about starting anew but whose mission is to emotionally heal, care for, also remembering and learning from experience. and seek justice for those little ones whose in- My desire for 2015 is to embrace the present nocence has been violated. with the resoluteness and wisdom garnered from Standing amongst mournful family members, co- the past.

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 11 COMMENTARY CC ‘Exodus’ less period drama than historical blunder BY CLYDE FOSTER/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“The truth is, it’s not that good a story.” This was Moses’ re- • Moses being “ousted” as a closet Hebrew. sponse to being told he was a Hebrew in the new “Exodus: Gods • Moses ambushing Ramses with a sword, demanding the and Kings” movie. I found it ironic that such a quote was placed Hebrews’ freedom. so early in the film. • Moses leading an Al Qaeda-esque training camp, teach- As I continued watching, two things became very apparent: ing Hebrew slaves battle tactics to fight a rebellion against the God’s glory is not glorious enough for Hollywood, and Kemite Egyptians. (the true name for Egyptian) history is not whitewashed enough The list could go on, but for the sake of space, I will leave it to present to an American public. at that. What bothers me the most is that numerous stories in the “Exodus” has received its fair share of backlash for the latter Bible, Exodus included, would actually make decent action films half of my observation. The fact that in 2014, a movie can be left untouched. So why is Hollywood attempting to fix what isn’t made about ancient Egypt (which is in Africa), starring no people broken? The answer is rather sinister and can be found in what is of color has caused an outrage. It reached such height that direc- possibly my biggest protest in the film: the depiction of God. tor Ridley Scott recently addressed the controversy by saying: In the Bible, God revealed himself to Moses through a burn- “I can’t mount a film of this budget, where I have to rely on ing bush. In the movie, the burning bush is present, but God tax rebates in Spain, and say that my lead actor is Mohammad so- appears as a child who could be no more than 12 years old. I find and-so from such-and-such. I’m just not going to get it financed. it peculiar that Ridley Scott, an atheist, chose to depict God as So the question doesn’t even come up.” an immature, temperamental baby who unleashes plagues on the Honestly, the whitewashing of the film did not surprise me. Egyptians as a result of a divine temper tantrum. His depiction However, I do wish they would have opted to completely com- serves further to justify atheists’ disbelief. mit. Scenes where actors of color served only as voiceless props It should be noted that Scott also directed “Noah,” a film based (often in roles of servitude) had far more racist undertones than if on the story of Noah’s ark that more than discreetly promoted the film would have been completely white, but I digress. To put evolutionary theory (another contrast to the Bible). It is my fear it simply, that was the smallest problem I had with the film. that Hollywood is rewriting the Bible for a generation more con- The bigger issue was that I was watching a movie, based on Photo/imdb.com cerned with smartphones and trending tweets than they are with a Biblical story, that had little to no correlation with its primary fact checking and spirituality. source. There are movies that take liberty with the Bible, and then Ridley Scott’s “Exodus: Gods and Kings” falls Even with historical and biblical inaccuracies put aside, the fact there is “Exodus.” short of biblical and historical accuracy. is “Exodus” is not good as a film or work of art. The movie lacks It’s almost as if the writer, producer and the director collec- any kind of flow, with scenes feeling awkward next to one another. tively read the book of Exodus and said, “We are going to make Here is a list of scenes in “Exodus” that have no basis in the Christian Bale and Joel Edgerton are unconvincing as Moses and a movie with this same title and make sure that it contradicts Bible (spoiler alert): Ramses, respectively. It’s just hard to take this film seriously. everything we just read.” • The omen at the beginning of the film that foreshadows the After an hour in the theaters, I felt drained … as if I was There were numerous times during the film where I found whole plot (read Deuteronomy 18: 9-12 to see what The Bible watching an all day “Titanic” marathon. My advice to Ridley myself scratching my head and asking my friend (who is better says about omens). Scott would be two-part: First, stick to historical drama and leave versed in the Bible than most) “did this really happen?” I received • Moses being a general (history loves to debate this fact, but it the good book alone and second, get better at directing historical a very solemn “no” every time. is never mentioned in the Bible). dramas, that way they won’t seem like hysterical blunders.

12 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 13 THE REAL DEAL BUSINESS BB Baldwin County fastest growing in state BY RON SIVAK/COLUMNIST | [email protected] | Twitter: @rcvak

ccording to Dr. Semoon Chang, the European consortium’s existing engineer- Board of Directors and GCMLS Committee.” economist at the Gulf Coast Center for ing presence in Alabama. It will also prompt The David D. Roberts scholarship is given Impact Studies, Baldwin County is now development of a supplier infrastructure, annually by the Mobile Area Association of the fastest growing county Alabama, joining Boeing’s operations in the state to make Realtors to reward a future leader in the local Awresting a title away traditionally held by Alabama one of America’s air-transportation real estate market. Roberts was the only local Shelby County which covers the Birmingham- manufacturing leaders,” the article said. president of MAAR to also serve as state and Hoover Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), The new United Launch Alliance factory national president of the prestigious Associa- when looking at data accumulated from 2010 recently opened in Decatur, turning out a range tion of Realtors. to 2013. of $200 million to $1 billion rockets capable According to the press release, Roberts The growth rates of population during the of carrying an array of satellites into space was advocated global thinking on housing issues last three years were 6.69 percent for Baldwin also mentioned, along with the importance of and laid the foundation for modern 21st century County, 4.24 percent for Shelby County, 3.19 car production. Mercedes-Benz, Honda and business practices in the area. The recipient of percent for Madison County, 0.21 percent for Hyundai produced more than 915,000 vehicles the award receives a scholarship to advance Mobile County, 0.17 percent for Jefferson and added 2,300 new jobs in the auto-supplier their knowledge of large scale real estate issues County, and negative 1.35 percent for Mont- sector for the state. and taught skills that can hopefully translate gomery County. Factors evaluated were: overall cost of do- into implementing best practices locally. According to Chang, not only was the ing business, incentive programs, corporate tax growth rate of population from 2010 to 2013 environment, regulatory environment, avail- Wilkins Miller’s Bowen earns CFA in Baldwin County the fastest, but increases in ability of skilled labor and competitive labor designation population was the also largest: 12,265 in Bald- costs. All of the top five states listed on the Greg Bowen, Director of Wealth Manage- win County, 10,724 in Madison County, 8,301 report were located in the Southeast. Georgia, ment for Wilkins Miller LLC, has successfully in Shelby County, 1,088 for Jefferson County Texas and South Carolina placed above Ala- completed the certification process to earn his and 863 in Mobile County. bama while Tennessee ranked fifth. designation as a Chartered Financial Analyst “The six largest counties in Alabama are (CFA). now Baldwin, Jefferson, Madison, Mobile, Dickinson earns David D. Roberts Recipients of the CFA accreditation have Montgomery, and Shelby. The rates of growth Scholarship successfully completed graduate-level curricu- of population from 1970 to 2013 were 439.79 This year’s recipient of the 2014 David lum with a series of three intensive examina- percent for Shelby County, 229.29 percent for Roberts Scholarship Award was Marie Dick- tions taken sequentially that take most candi- Baldwin County, 85.96 percent for Madison inson, managing partner with Berkshire Ha- dates between two and five years to complete. County, 35.08 percent for Montgomery County, thaway HomeServices Cooper & Co (BHHS). Applicant surveys report that preparation for 30.5 percent for Mobile County, and 2.25 per- Dickinson has been a licensed realtor for eight the three exams typically requires at least 900 cent for Jefferson County,” Chang said. years, the entire time with BHHS. combined hours of study. Prior to entering the real estate industry, Administered worldwide, the program cov- Alabama among top states for do- Dickinson was a teacher at Murphy High ers ethical and professional standards, securities ing business in 2014 School focusing on economics, geography and analysis and valuation, international financial According to Area Development Magazine, U.S. government as well as teaching advanced statement analysis, quantitative methods, eco- considered the leading executive publication placement courses in all of those disciplines. To nomics, corporate finance, portfolio manage- covering corporate site selection and reloca- date, Dickinson has carried over her teaching ment and performance measurement. tion with 60,000 periodicals mailed quarterly, credentials as an instructor at the Professional Bowen graduated from of the University of the state of Alabama was ranked fourth in their School of Real Estate in Mobile, certifying new Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in chemi- 2014 survey of site consultants. realtors in broker pre-licensing, post-licensing, cal engineering and received his M.B.A. from Factors cited were growing accomplish- reciprocal licensing and continuing education Clemson University. In addition to his CFA ments in the transportation manufacturing courses. designation, Bowen is also a Certified Financial industry and the success of the state’s long-term “I was very excited to know that Marie Planner (CFP) and is a member of the Financial economic development plan known as Acceler- Dickinson received the David Roberts Scholar- Planning Association. He is active in his com- ate Alabama. Launched in 2012, Accelerate ship Award this year,” Chad Fincher, executive munity as a member of the Estate Planning Alabama focuses on optimizing the state’s director for MAAR said. “She is a very worthy Council of Mobile and is an adjunct instructor advantages in workforce training and infra- member who works extremely hard for our as- of finance for the University of South Alabama. structure within 11 major growth industries. sociation. She has been active in many different Formerly known as Wilkins Miller Heirony- Most notable developments cited by the volunteer roles here at the Mobile Area Asso- mus, for over half a century Wilkins Miller has magazine included the airplane and aerospace ciation of Realtors and it is members like Marie specialized in the accounting areas of audit- industry. who help make our organization one of the ing, tax, litigation, valuation, cost segregation, “In its first U.S. production, Airbus plans to premier realtor associations in the state. I look client accounting and information technology begin manufacturing its A320 family of passen- forward to continue working with Marie as she consulting. More information on the firm can ger jets in Alabama next year. That will add to provides her leadership for another term on our be found on their website.

14 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 THE REVIEW | CUISINE Fine wine and food pairings in WeMo hideout BY ANDY MACDONALD/CUISINE EDITOR | [email protected]

obile is a smaller town than I give her credit. I like the small town vibe for the most part. Don’t get me wrong, she’s got her “big girl” attributes in museums, decent sized hotels, the RSA Tower, a battleship, and Mher very own Chuck E. Cheese. For a creature of habit like me, that big city living shrinks to a size that could make Bo and Luke Duke claustrophobic. I have my familiar haunts and I venture out a little bit, but even when I do there are people I know around every corner, and I don’t know that many people. I am thankful for friends and acquaintances around my MiMo and LoDa scene. But recently I felt like getting away from it all but didn’t feel like leaving town. There’s a place where I am highly unlikely to run into anyone I know. A place where subterfuge is effortless, a place free of famil- iar faces where even someone as famous as our own Rob Holbert can remain anonymous, that place is West Mobile. Everyone knows Rob. When we hang out we can’t get away with anything. I had a little Christmas money to burn so Rob and I called up Agent 549 and headed west (at 549’s recommendation) to a spot we could all relax and enjoy a fancy meal free of distrac- tions. Enter Pour Baby. Pour Baby is an entity across the street from Provi- dence Hospital with one of those wine systems that allows even the finest bottle to be served by the glass. This is perfect for those nights when a bottle is just Photos/Dan Anderson too much, or maybe you want a different wine for each course. It’s an interesting system. Wines are called up Pour Baby, near Providence Hospital, has a full per location, and the whole thing is very efficient, es- pecially for a menu that boasts 23 whites and 38 reds. I menu to compliment its extensive wine list. consider Agent 549 knowledgeable of French Rosé, and we both started with Commanderie de la Bargemone forded a mussel. Rob was stingy with his shrimp. Rose ($8 per glass) while Rob went for the red side of The Fresh Gulf Fish ($18) of the day was amberjack. This the menu with Monterey County’s Miura Vineyards was a sizeable chunk pan seared with a red radish tartar sauce. Pinot Noir ($12 per glass). I was not disappointed. I hate it when people say, “the fish was We couldn’t sit around swilling wine without cheese cooked perfectly,” but the fish was cooked perfectly. It was just so I called for a three cheese Artisanal Cheese Flight the right amount of doneness and seasoning. The thing I couldn’t ($18). The menu has a list of eight cheeses to choose figure out was the herb roasted squash as the side. It was thinly from complete with wine pairings per cheese. Too late sliced and fork tender but not falling apart. I certainly had the best to reorder wine, rather than selecting cheese for what we meal of the three. were drinking I threw caution to the wind and ordered A couple more glasses of wine later we received a tab of the three that sounded the best to me. $157.30. Sounds pretty steep, and maybe it is. This may be a The first was Mobay mixed milk which had a layer special place for you to get away from it all and enjoy a nice meal of sheep milk cheese and a layer of goat milk cheese with a great wine selection. I may return for an afternoon glass going, but the best part was the pâté. Rob asked our waitress if it pressed together with a thin layer of fine grape ash or two with the charcuterie board as my snack. Truth be known, were duck or goose. “Chicken,” she replied, once again proving serving as a line of demarcation. Curado Manchego was a sheep though, I will pay handsomely for a hideaway. that the chicken liver is a versatile component. cheese from Spain that was a little softer than the Mobay. But the It’s ridiculous that the kid begging for attention in class is now Entrees were interesting, especially for being west of I-65. Pan best one was Delice de France Camembert. It was so creamy and appreciating solitude, but it didn’t last long. We weren’t even roasted quail ($16) was right up 549’s alley. Spicy greens cooked delicious I enjoyed it with the rose, though it wasn’t one of the halfway across the parking lot before we were saying, “Let’s head in bacon and braised went perfect with the fried corn cake. Quail recommended pairings. downtown for wine. Wanna bet who is working the bar?” Typical. is growing in popularity around this town, despite its small size The cheeses were great by themselves but then I went back and and difficult joints. This version was tender and succulent. tried them with the amazing marmalade and contrasting olives Pour Baby Rob was pleased with his Seafood Stew ($16). A very neat white and candied nuts. This is living. 6808 Airport Blvd, Suite H bean broth was the base for roasted carrots amongst mussels and Cheese is great but I am a Charcuterie ($15) man. This board sautéed shrimp. I don’t think he caught the fact that his nemesis Mobile, AL 36608 did not disappoint. Prosciutto, chorizo, salami were expectedly tarragon aioli made the sauce a little more delicious. I was af- 251-343-3555 fantastic with crostini. Sweet pickles and pickled onions had me

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 15 2107 Airport Blvd. • 450-9377 26 N. Royal St. • 338-2000 Coffee, smoothies, lunch & beers. RoYAL SCAM ($$) BRiquETTES STEAKHouSE ($-$$) KiTCHEN oN GEoRGE ($-$$) 5460 Old Shell Rd. • 344-4575 Gumbo, Angus beef & bar. Grilled steaks, chicken and Contemporary American food. SERDA’S CoFFEEHouSE ($) 72. S. Royal St. • 432-SCAM (7226) seafood. 720A Schillinger Rd. S. 351A George & Savannah St. Coffee, lunches, live music & gelato. RuTH’S CHRiS STEAK HouSE ($$$) Suite 2. • 607-7200 436-8890 3 Royal St. S. • 415-3000 Exceptional service & taste. CAFE 219 ($) LAP’S GRoCERY & GRiLL ($-$$) SMoKEY DEMBo SMoKE HouSE ($) 271 Glenwood St. • 476-0516 Salads, sandwiches & potato salad. Casual Seafood & southern 3758 Dauphin Island Pkwy. • 473-1401 TAMARA’S DoWNToWN ($$) $ uNDeR $10/PeRSoN 219 Conti St. • 438-5234 classics. SPoT oF TEA ($) CAFE MALBiS ($) 1595 Battleship Parkway, Casual fine dining. $$ 10-25/PeRSoN Spanish Fort • 626-0045 Mobile’s favorite spot for breakfast & lunch. 104 N. Section St., Fairhope Contemporary fare & eclectic 306 Dauphin St. • 433-9009. $$$ oVeR 25/PeRSoN MAGHEE’S GRiLL oN THE HiLL 929-2219 spirits. 28396 Hwy. 181, Daphne • ($-$$) Great lunch & dinner. SouTHERN DECADENCE DESSERTS ($) Soups, Salads, Desserts & Sandwiches. uNioN ($$$) 661-6620 3607 Old Shell Rd. • 445-8700 Premium steaks & burgers. CAJuN SEAFooD ($) 1956 B University Blvd. • 300-8304 Seafood market & deli fresh MAMA’S ($) STEviE’S KiTCHEN ($) 659 Dauphin St. • 432-0300 Slap your mama good home cooking. Business Casual seafood. 408 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Sandwiches, stuffed potatoes, THE BuLL ($-$$) BoNEFiSH GRiLL ($$) 220 Dauphin St. • 432-6262 N. Mexico/Santa Fe & Gulf Coast cuisine. Eclectic dining & space. 478-9897 soups, salads & desserts CAMiLLE’S SiDEWALK CAFé ($) MARS HiLL CAFE ($) 41 West I-65 Service Rd. N Suite 150. 609 Dauphin St. • 378-5091 6955 Airport Blvd. • 633-7196 Gourmet wraps, pizzas, & more. Great sandwiches, coffee & more. TAMARA’S BAR & GRiLL ($) THE TRELLiS RooM ($$$) BAuDEAN’S ($$) 5025 Cottage Hill Rd. • 643-1611 Wings, po-boys, burgers. Italian dishes & local flair. Fried, grilled, steamed & always 5817 Old Shell Rd. 343-0200 MARY’S SouTHERN CooKiNG ($) 210 Eastern Shore Center, Hwy. 98 Battle House Hotel, Royal St. • 338-5493 fresh. 3300 River Rd. 973-9070 CAMELLiA CAFé ($-$$$) 3011 Springhill Ave. • 476-2232 • 929-0002 BouDREAuX’S CAJuN GRiLL ($-$$) Contemporary southern fare. MELLoW MuSHRooM ($) TP CRoCKMiERS ($) Quality Cajun & New Orleans 61 Section St., Fairhope Pies & awesome beer selection. American Restaurant & Bar a little Vino Cuisine. 29249 US Highway 98 928-4321 2032 Airport Blvd. • 471-4700 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890 DoMKE MARKET Daphne. 621-1991 CAMMiE’S oLD DuTCH ($) 5660 Old Shell Rd. • 380-1500 THE BLiND MuLE ($) Wine, Craft Beer, Gourmet foods, ED’S SEAFooD SHED ($$) Mobile’s classic ice cream spot. MiCHELi’S CAFE ($) Daily specials made from scratch. & more. Fried seafood served in hefty 2410 Dawes Rd. Ste. D. 2511 Old Shell Rd. • 471-1710 6358 Cottage Hill Rd. • 725-6917 57 N. Claiborne St. • 694-6853. 375-0599 portions. 3382 Hwy. 98 • 625-1947 CARPE DiEM ($) MoMMA GoLDBERG’S DELi ($) THE HouSE ($-$$) FATHoMS LouNGE FELiX’S FiSH CAMP ($$) Deli foods, pastries & specialty Sandwiches & Momma’s Love. Seafood, sandwiches, salads & soups A tapas reaturant, cocktails & live Upscale dining with a view. drinks. 4072 Old Shell Rd. 3696 Airport Blvd. • 344-9500 4513 Old shell Rd. • 408-9622 music 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000 1420 Hwy. 98 • 626-6710 304-0448 5602 Old Shell Rd. • 287-6556 THE HuNGRY oWL ($) RED oR WHiTE HALF SHELL oYSTER HouSE ($) CHAT-A-WAY CAFE ($) Burgers, flatbread pizza & seafood. MoNTEGo’S ($-$$) 323A De La Mare Ave, Fairhope • 990-0003 3654 Airport Blvd. • 338-9350 Quiches & sandwiches in Spring Fresh Caribbean-style food & craft 7899 Cottage Hill Rd. • 633-4479 Hill. THREE GEoRGES CANDY SHoP ($) 1104 Dauphin St.. • 478-9494 LEGACY BAR & GRiLL ($$$) 4366 Old Shell Rd. 343-9889 beer. 6601 Airport Blvd. • 634-3445 RoYAL STREET TAvERN American, Seafood,Stekhouse. CHiCKEN SALAD CHiCK ($) MoSTLY MuFFiNS ($) Light lunch with Southern flair. Sandwich, Chicken Salad, Salad & Live music,martinis & a light 9 Du Rhu Dr. S. • 341-3370 Muffins, coffee & wraps. 226 Dauphin St. • 433-6725 dinner menu. Soup. 2370 S. Hillcrest Rd. Unit R • TRoPiCAL SMooTHiE ($) 26 N. Royal St. • LuCY B. GooDE ($$) 105 Dauphin St. • 433-9855 338-2000 Gulf Coast cuisine, reinvented. 660-0501 Great smoothies, wraps & sandwiches. CRAviN CAJuN ($) MuDBuGS AT THE LooP ($) SouTHERN NAPA 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores Du Rhu Dr. • 378-5648 Bistro plates, craft beers and pantry. Po-boys, salads & seafood. Cajun Kitchen & seafood market. 570 Schillinger Road • 634-3454 967-5858 2005 Government St. • 478-9897 2304 Main Street. • 375-2800 LuLu’S ($$) 1870 Dauphin Island Pkwy WiLD WiNG STATioN ($) 287-1168 MuG SHoTS ($$) 1500 Government St. • 287-1526 Live music & great seafood. CREAM & SuGAR ($) Bar & Grill. YAK THE KATHMANDu KiTCHEN 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores Breakfast, lunch in Oakleigh. Ice 6255 Airport Blvd. • 447-2514 ($-$$)Authentic foods from falafel? try 967-5858 cream too. NEWK’S EXPRESS CAFE ($) Himalayan region. oRiGiNAL oYSTER HouSE ($-$$) 351 George St. #B • 405-0003 Oven-baked sandwiches & more. 3210 Dauphin St. • 287-0115 some Hummus A great place for kids and D’ MiCHAEL’S ($) 252 Azalea Rd. • 341-3533 7 SPiCE ($-$$) seafood. 3733 Hwy. 98 • 626-2188 Philly cheese steaks, gyros & more. oLD 27 GRiLL ($) Healthy, delicious Mediterranean food. oYSTER RoCKEFELLER ($$-$$$) 312 7101-A Theodore Dawes Rd. Burgers, dogs & 27 beers & wines. 3762 Airport Blvd. • 725-1177 Schillingers Rd. • 607-9527 653-2979 19992 Hwy. 181 Old County Rd. ‘Cue RiCE ASiAN GRiLL & SuSHi BAR ($) BACKYARD CAFE & BBq ($) ABBA’S MEDiTERRANEAN DELiSH DESSERTS ($) Fairhope • 281-2663 Home cookin’ like momma made. CAFE ($-$$) 3964 Government Blvd. • 378-8083 Great desserts & hot lunch oRLEANS Po-BoYS ($-$$) THE HARBoR RooM ($-$$) 2804 Springhill Ave. • 473-4739 Beef, lamb & seafood. 23 Upham St. • 473-6115 Po-boys, gumbo, seafood & wings. BAR-B-quiNG WiTH MY HoNEY ($$) Unique seafood. DEW DRoP iNN ($) 4356 Old Shell Rd. • 340-6464 960 Schillinger Rd S. • 633-3900 BBQ, burgers, wings & seafood 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000 Classic burgers, hotdogs & setting. oRLEANS CAFE ($-$$) JERuSALEM CAFE ($-$$) Mobile’s oldest Middle Eastern cuisine. TACKY JACKS ($-$$) 1808 Old Shell Rd. • 473-7872. Po-boys, gumbo, seafood & wings. 19170 Hwy 43 Mt. Vernon. • 839-9927 Gulf Shores favorite on the Causeway. DoWNToWNERS ($) 3721 Airport Blvd. • 380-1503 BRiCK PiT ($) 5773 Airport Blvd. • 304-1155 1175 Battleship Pkwy. • 621-8988 Great sandwiches, soups & salads. PANiNi PETE’S ($) A favorite barbecue spot. KAN zAMAN CAFE ($) TP CRoCKMiERS ($-$$) 107 Dauphin St. • 433 8868 Original sandwich and bake shop. 5456 Old Shell Rd. • 343-0001 326 Azalea Rd. • 229-4206 American Restaurant & Bar E WiNG HouSE ($) 42 1/2 Section St., Fairhope • 929-0122 DREAMLAND BBq ($) MEDiTERRANEAN SANDWiCH 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890 195 S University Suite H 19 S. Conception St. • 405-0031 Ribs, sandwiches & great sides. CoMPANY ($) Great & quick. THE BLuEGiLL ($-$$) 662-1830. 2212 Dauphin Island PDq ($) 3314 Old Shell Rd. • 479-9898. 274 Dauphin St. • 545-3161 A historic seafood dive with live Pkwy • 479-2021 Chicken fingers, salad & sandwiches. MoE’S oRiGiNAL BAR B quE ($) 2502 Schillinger Rd. Ste. 2 • 725-0126 music. 3775 Hwy. 98 • 625-1998 FiREHouSE SuBS ($) 1165 University Blvd. • 202-0959 Bar-b-que & music. Bayfront Park MiNT HooKAH BiSTRo ($) THE iTALiAN FiSHERMAN ($$) Hot subs, cold salads & catering. quEEN G’S CAFé ($) Great Mediterranean food. Seafood Italian style. Dr., Daphne • 625-RIBS 6300 Grelot Rd. Down home cooking for lunch. 701 Springhill Ave. • 410-7427 5951 Old Shell Rd. • 450-9191 2503 Old Shell Rd. • 478-2881 631-3730 2518 Old Shell Rd. • 471-3361 TiN ToP RESTAuRANT & oYSTER BAR ($$) SAuCY q BARBquE ($) zoRBA THE GREEK ($-$$) FiSHERMAN’S LEGACY ($) REG iNA’S KiTCHEN ($-$$) Award-winning BarBQue. Shawarmah & baba ghanouj. Best seafood, premium aged Deli, market and catering. Sandwiches, subs and soups. steaks, extensive wine list. 6232 Bon 1111 Government Blvd. • 433-7427 1222 Hillcrest Rd, Ste. D • 633-2202 4380 Halls Mill Rd. • 665-2266 2056 Government St. • 476-2777 WHiSTLE SToP ($) Secour Hwy County Rd. 10.• 949-5086 FivE GuYS BuRGERS & FRiES ($) RivER SHACK ($-$$) WiNTzELL’S oYSTER HouSE ($-$$) Home cookin’ & BBQ. 4401 Old Shell Rd. • 447-2393 Seafood, burgers & steaks. 110 S. Florida St. • 478-7427 605 Dauphin St. • 432-4605 6120 Marina Dr., Dog River • 443-7318. far eastern fare 6700 Airport Blvd. • 341-1111 4663 Airport Blvd. • 300-8425 BANGKoK THAi ($-$$) FooSACKLY’S ($) RoLY PoLY ($) Delicious, traditional Thai cuisine. 1208 Shelton Beach Rd., Famous chicken fingers. Wraps & salads. Saraland • 442-3335 Drop DeaD 3821 Airport Blvd. • 344-9995 zEA’S ($$) 310 S. University Blvd. • 343-0047 809 Hillcrest Rd. • 607-6378 BANzAi JAPANESE RESTAuRANT Gourmet rotisserie with prime rib 2250 Airport Blvd. • 479-2922 3220 Dauphin St. • 479-2480 Gourmet ($$) Traditional sushi & lunch. & seafood. 7641 Airport Blvd. • 607-7667 RoMA CAFE ($-$$) ALABAMA CRuiSES ($$) 312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-9077 Pasta, salad and sandwiches. 4671 Airport Blvd. • 344-7414 2558 Schillinger Rd. • 219-7761. Fine dining & sailing from Of GoLDEN BoWL ($) 3249 Dauphin St. • 479-2000 7143 Airport Blvd. • 341-7217 Orange Beach • 973-1244 Hibachi Grill & Asian Cuisine iSTANBuL GRiLL ($) RoSiE’S GRiLL ($-$$) BAY GouRMET ($$) 309 Bell Air Blvd • 470-8033 Authentic Turkish Resturant. Sandwiches, southwest fare, 7 days. A premier caterer & cooking classes. LiquiD ($$) Completely Amazing sushi & assortment of 3702 Airport Blvd. • 461-6901 1203 Hwy 98 Ste. 3D, Daphne 1880-A Airport Blvd. • 450-9051 JAMAiCAN viBE ($) 626-2440 rolls. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-0109 ComfortaBle CAFé 615 ($$-$$$) MiKATo JAPANESE STEAK HouSE Mind-blowing island food. RoYAL KNiGHT ($) American fare with local ingredients. AL’S HoTDoGS ($) Steak night on fridays. ($$) Upscale sushi & specialties. Classic hotdogs, gyros & milkshakes 3700 Government Blvd. Ste A 615 Dauphin St. • 432-8434. 602-1973 3004 Gov’t Blvd • 287-1270 364 Azalea Rd. • 343-6622 4701 Airport Blvd. • 342-3243 CAFé RoYAL ($$-$$$) RoCK N RoLL SuSHi ($$) ASHLAND MiDToWN PuB ($-$$) JACK’S CATFiSH CAMP ($$) RoYAL STREET CAFE ($) Prime steak & seafood in elegant setting. Steak & Seafood Homemade lunch & breakfast. 3299 Bel Air Mall. • 287-0445 Pizzas, pastas, & calzones. 101 N. Royal St. • 405-5251 WASABi SuSHi ($$) 245-A Old Shell Rd. 479-3278 4815 Halls Mill Rd. • 661-4434 104 N. Royal St. • 434-0011 NoJA ($$-$$$) JiMMY JoHN’S ($) Japanese cusine ATLANTA BREAD CoMPANY ($-$$) Inventive & very fresh cuisine. 3654 Airport Blvd. S. C • 725-6078 Sandwiches, salads & more. 3680 Sandwiches, catering & delivery SAGE RESTAuRANT ($$) Inside the Mobile Marriott. 6 N. Jackson St. • 433-0377 YEN RESTAuRANT ($) Dauphin St. • 380-0444 too. 6920 Airport Blvd. • 414-5444 oSMAN’S RESTAuRANT ($$) Authentic Vietnamese cuisine. BENJAMiN’S ($) JoE CAiN CAFé ($) 3101 Airport Blvd. • 476-6400 Supreme European cuisine. Pizzas, sandwiches, cocktails. SAToRi CoFFEEHouSE ($) 763 Holcombe Ave. • 478-5814 Burgers,wings and seafood. 2579 Halls Mill Rd. • 479-0006. Jubilee Shopping Center, Daphne

16 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 EL CHARRo ($) SATiSFACTioN AT HARD RoCK 8439 mama mia! Finest Mexican in WeMo. HoTEL AND CASiNo ($) C&G GRiLLE AT iSLAND viEW BENTz’S PizzA PuB ($) 7751 Airport Blvd. • 607-0882 Southern favorites & fresh- CASiNo ($) Homemade pizza and Italian FuEGo ($-$$) smoked meats. Large breakfast, lunch or dinner dishes. 28567 County Rd. 13 • 625- Outstanding Mexican cuisine. 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-6256 menu. 3300 W. Beach Blvd. 6992 2066 Old Shell Rd. • 378-8621 TiEN AT iP CASiNo 877-774-8439 BuCK’S PizzA ($$) LoS ARCoS ($) RESoRT SPA ($-$$) WAHoo’S PooLSiDE BAR AND Delivery. Quaint Mexican restaurant. Pan-Asian cuisine made in front GRiLL AT PALACE CASiNo RESoRT 5556 Old Shell Rd. • 345-7484 of you. ($-$$) 350 Dauphin St. • 431-9444 Fresh seafood & more. is tHe Game on? GAMBiNo BRoTHERS ($) LA CoCiNA ($) 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 BuFFALo WiLD WiNGS ($) Authentic Mexican cuisine. HiGHLiGHTS SPoRTS LouNGE AT iP 158 Howard Ave. • 800-725-2239 Homemade pastas & sandwiches. Best wings & sporting events. 4633 Airport Blvd. • 342-5553 CASiNo RESoRT SPA ($) MiGNoN’S AT PALACE CASiNo 6341 Airport Blvd. • 378-5955 873 Hillcrest Ave. • 344-8115 SANTA FE GRiLL ($) Brews & game on 65 screens. RESoRT ($$-$$$) BuTCH CASSiDY’S ($) GAMBiNo’S iTALiAN GRiLL ($) Locally-owned, fresh cuisine. 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 Extraordinary wine, steaks & Famous burgers, sandwiches & Italian, Steaks, Seafood, 3160 Bel Air Mall • 450-2440 HiGH TiDE CAFé AT iP CASiNo seafood. wings. 60 N. Florida St. • 450-0690. 18 Laurel Ave. Fairhope • 990- RESoRT SPA ($) 158 Howard Ave. • 800-725-2239 CALLAGHAN’S iRiSH SoCiAL CLuB 0995 Casual & relaxing, extensive THE DEN AT TREASuRE BAY ($) Burgers & beer. GuiDo’S ($$) menu. 850 Bayview Ave. • 888- CASiNo ($-$$) no GamBlinG Intimate & casual with daily 916 Charleston St. • 433-9374 Fresh cuisine nightly on menu. 946-2847 HERoES SPoRTS BAR & GRiLLE ($) 1709 Main St., Daphne • 626-6082 BR PRiME AT BEAu RivAGE ($$- specials. Casino fare $$$) Fine dining establishment. 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747- Sandwiches & cold beer. LA RoSSA ($$) atmore Catering and Market. 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 2839 273 Dauphin St. • 433-4376. FiRE AT WiND CREEK CASiNo & JiA AT BEAu RivAGE ($-$$) Cq AT TREASuRE BAY CASiNo ($$- Hillcrest & Old Shell Rd. • 341- 1716 Main St. Ste. C, Daphne HoTEL ($$-$$$) Exotic Japanese, Thai, Chinese, $$$) 9464 625-0345 World-class prime steaks, Korean & Vietnamese cuisine. Elegant atmosphere & PiCKLEFiSH ($$) seafood & wine. MCSHARRY’S iRiSH PuB ($) 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 tantalizing entrees. Brillant Reubens & Fish-N-Chips Pizza, sandwiches & salads. 303 Poarch Rd. • 866-946-3360 MEMPHiS q AT BEAu RivAGE ($) 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747- 101 N. Brancroft St. Fairhope 5955 Old Shell Rd.• 344-9899 GRiLL AT WiND CREEK CASiNo & HoTEL ($) Memphis-style Q. 2839 990-5100 PAPA’S PLACE ($$) 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 BLu AT TREASuRE BAY CASiNo ($) THE LANDiNG ($) A Taste of Italy . BYOB. Contemporary & old-fashioned CoAST RESTAuRANT AT BEAu Lounge with cocktails & tapas favorites. From seafood to steaks. 28691 U.S. Highway 98, Daphne RivAGE ($) menu. 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy. • 973- 626-1999 303 Poarch Rd. • 866-946-3360 Sports bar-style joint. 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747- 2696 RAvENiTE ($) Biloxi 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 2839 LuCKY’S iRiSH PuB ($) Pizza, Pasta, Salad & more LB’S STEAKHouSE AT GRAND MARGARiTAviLLE viBE AT HARD RoCK HoTEL RESTAuRANT ($$$) Irish pub fare & more. 102 N. Section St. • 929-2525 AND CASiNo ($-$$) CASiNo ($$-$$$) 3692 Airport Blvd • 414-3000 viA EMiLiA ($$) Fine dining with juicy steak Burgers, salads, specialties & Fine surf, turf, atmosphere & cigars. & fine wine. more. THE STADiuM ($) Homemade pastas & pizzas made 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-625 Catch the games with great food. 280 Beach Blvd. • 800-946-2946 160 5th St. • 855-667-677 daily. 5901 Old Shell Rd. • 342- RuTH’S CHRiS STEAK HouSE AT Cuu LoNG SuPER PHo AT GRAND FEEDiNG FRENzY BuFFET ($-$$) 19270 Hwy. 98 Fairhope 3677 HARD RoCK HoTEL & CASiNo ($$$) (MARGARiTAviLLE CASiNo) 990-0408 CASiNo ($$) Exceptional servie & taste. Asian noodle soups, bubble teas Featuring Gulf Coast Cuisine WEMoS ($) 777 Beach Blvd • 877-877-6256 & more. 160 5th St. • 855-667-677 Wings, tenders, hotdogs & olé mi amiGo! HARD RoCK CAFé AT HARD RoCK CABo CoASTAL CANTiNA ($) 280 Beach Blvd. • 800-946-2946 MARiNA AT LANDSHARK sandwiches. 225 Dauphin St. • 441-7685 HoTEL AND CASiNo ($) EMERiL’S GuLF CoAST FiSH LANDiNG($-$$) 312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-5877 DAuPHiN ST. TAquERiA ($) American fare & rockin’ HouSE AT iSLAND viEW CASiNo (MARGARiTAviLLE CASiNo) Enchiladas, tacos, & authentic memorabilia. ($$-$$$) Kick it up a notch. 4 portable food stations. fare. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-2453 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-6256 3300 W. Beach Blvd. • 877-774- 160 5th St. • 855-667-6777

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 17 W ORD OF MOUTH CUISINE CC New Year’s Day isn’t complete without Hopping John and cabbage BY ANDY MACDONALD/CUISINE EDITOR | [email protected]

s long as I can remember my family reserves the first din- quality hot sauces on the side is sufficient. You may want to visit ner of January for black-eyed peas and cabbage. Even if my column on hot sauce from earlier this year. you don’t care for the two dishes, you are going to at least I prefer an overnight soak on dried peas rather than the “quick eat a bite. When it comes to a tradition like this I do have soak” method. You can still get great results with canned peas, but Aconviction. My kids can complain all they want, but will not be al- my advice is to buy the cheapest, least-seasoned peas you can find. lowed from the table until a spoonful of peas and a fork’s worth of The blander the peas the better. You are in control of the flavor. cabbage is consumed. Then they can go Xbox crazy for all I care. As a proud amateur southern cook I cannot abide a pot of black- 1 pound black-eyed peas eyed peas by themselves. The New Year’s fun revolves around ½ pound of bacon tossing a clean dime in a pot of Hopping John (Hoppin’ John if ½ pound of Conecuh sausage it’s after five). The origin of this dish and its namesake predate the 1 leftover hambone with meat bits Civil War, and it likely came from a slave recipe. In its basic form 1 large onion, white or Peruvian sweet onion, chopped we in the south recognize it as black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon. Be 1 bell pepper, chopped assured these defining ingredients can change from one region to 2 stalks celery, chopped the next. 1 tablespoon of garlic, minced There are some who use field peas instead of our black-eyed 1 whole tomato, seeded and chopped preference. You may see a Cuban version that makes use of black 1 teaspoon of Creole seasoning beans. I like that with a little cumin. Caribbean style is achieved ½ cup of fresh parsley, chopped with red beans and perhaps a little coconut milk for good measure. ½ cup of diced green onions But whatever bean, pea or addition is used, it all represents the Photo/Wikimedia Commons same thing: money, more specifically coins. Cabbage represents In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. greenbacks. Greens and meaty black eyed peas are for Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. Keep only about a Some traditions say you should leave three peas on your plate health, wealth and happiness in the new year. tablespoon of grease in the pan. Discard the rest. to bring fortune, luck, and romance. This was never a tradition in Add sausage, onion, bell pepper and celery cooking until tender. my house. Rather than leaving something on the plate we just tried for this dish. I try to keep this pig oriented but wouldn’t judge Add garlic and tomato and cook for two minutes. Shake on the to not get any on the walls. Sometimes I do make too large of a pot someone for using beef. Chicken would not do. This year I am Creole seasoning. Add the peas, the ham bone and cover with and we have leftovers. Eat this January 2 and the name changes to using the swine triumvirate of sausage, bacon, and ham. I’m an water. Skipping Jenny. equal opportunist. Be careful with your seasoning. It’s very easy Bring to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook, My version has evolved over the past few years. I used to make to over season this dish, but if your rice is cooked with plain H2O stirring often until peas are creamy and tender. This will be a stew of the peas, meat and veggies with enough stock to add the then you may want to go slightly saltier than your desire for the dictated by whether or not you used dry or canned peas and the uncooked rice at the last 20 minutes. Nowadays I cook my rice finished product. That rice will suck out the flavor in a hurry, but amount of soaking time. separate. Here’s why. I prefer more hop than John, so I would that’s what we want. Add parsley and green onion for fragrance and color. This dish rather spoon the peas over rice like gumbo for the perfect mix. It’s I’ve also been known to make two pots. The first is a mild will be a showstopper. Serve over hot rice with Louisiana Red Dot a fear of commitment, though I am fond of one-pot meals. mannered mixture for the masses and the second is a jalapeno and Hot Sauce or Sriracha. There is also the choice of bacon, sausage, ground beef, or ham hot sauce flamethrower. It’s your party. In most cases serving some

18 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 19 COVER STORY The ‘new’ public housing: mixed-use, mixed-income BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

ast month, as the Mobile Housing Board decided to move wrote. “Residents are allowed to come back based on the leasing peting for a Southeastern Conference title each year. forward with a $750 million redevelopment of public hous- requirements for the new development. For instance, mixed “We do have a good track record that we hope we can continue ing communities on the city’s south side, it selected three finance developments usually have a portion of units designated in Mobile,” Yerby said. “We’re as confident as anybody.” developers to get a part of the massive project that would low income; prior residents are provided the opportunity to reap- The state also gives developers 4 percent tax credits, but Ltransform three of the oldest and most blighted housing develop- ply for those new developments.” Yerby said those provide less equity and “requires much greater ments in the city. Hall said a survey provided to tenants revealed that 80 percent resources from other sources.” He said he doesn’t see a lot of Hollyhand Development, Columbia Residential and Pennrose of the residents in both Rosedale and McKenzie wanted to come potential in using 4 percent tax credits, but is open to discussing Properties Global Development Group — each of which have back once construction was finished. Only 40 percent came back, the possibility with MHB, if it’s necessary. experience with similar projects around the country — will get he said. In many cases, Hall explained, once residents go to the As much as 70 to 80 percent of a project can be funded about a third apiece of the 330-acre project, Program Director trouble of moving out it’s not worth it for them to come back. through these tax credits. The rest is usually funded with public James Brooks said. The plan is to redevelop R.V. Taylor Plaza, McKenzie, which has not seen all phases completed, originally money, he said. Thomas James Place and Frank W. Boykin Tower. had 340 units, but will drop to 256 units. Rosedale, which was The Alabama Housing Finance Authority has established hous- Members of the MHB and staff took tours of housing develop- built on 15 acres, increased from 188 units to 274. Hall said the ing priorities for 2015. These priorities are what the organization ments for which the three were responsible in Tuscaloosa, New two communities are currently at 100 percent occupancy and “try will look for in awarding tax credits for future projects. Accord- Brunswick, N.J. and New Orleans. to stay close” to that at all times. ing to the AHFA website, the group will be looking for projects Hollyhand was a big part of the success of redevelopment While it remains unclear what role Mobile Development that add to, or upgrade the existing affordable housing stock; plans for Rosedale and McKenzie Apartments in Tuscaloosa, Enterprises, a non-profit arm of MHB, will play in the redevelop- projects that without the credits would not set aside affordable director of development at the Tuscaloosa Housing Authority ment project, Hall said THA’s non-profit, Tuscaloosa Affordable housing for low-income residents; projects that use additional Chris Hall said. Housing Corporation, doesn’t play a role in the management assistance and projects that help create a balanced distribution of Both were mixed income redevelopment projects of two of of their developments. Hall said, as of right now, the non-profit credits throughout regions in the state. the oldest public housing communities in the city, Hall said. only manages THA’s home ownership program, which targets the Little is known about the total scope of Mobile’s project. The Each date back to segregation, he said, and were built at around highest earning residents and prepares them for home ownership. MHB approved the developers last month, but it will take as long the same time, with Rosedale constructed for whites and McK- While the housing authority controls the day-to-day operations as six months for a master plan to be drawn up, Brooks said pre- enzie for blacks. of both Rosedale and McKenzie, Hollyhand has oversight in both viously. The project will be completed in phases over a number Both redevelopment projects were awarded U.S. Department complexes, Hall said. Hollyhand’s oversight into the management of years. Yerby said Hollyhand doesn’t yet know where it fits into of Housing and Urban Development Hope VI grants, pouring $20 of the development stems from the company’s application for tax the project, but given their experience with public housing they million of federal money into each, Hall said. The city and county credits and an interest in making sure the appropriate guidelines would most likely be involved in that phase. He also noted, “you each chipped in $1 million in matching costs. Hall did note that are followed, Hall said. don’t see a lot of mixed-use developments” in the state. with McKenzie, the city contributed monies in the “millions of dollars” for each phase of the $58 million project. Tax credits MHB officials have said the 956 residents affected by the Redevelopment elsewhere In addition to the grant awards for Rosedale and McKenzie, The George and The Vue housing developments in New redevelopment of the 1,300 units in those three communities will THA benefitted from 9 percent tax credits through the Alabama Brunswick, N.J. are both similar to the project officials are look- be relocated, per HUD rules. The same was true in Tuscaloosa, Housing Finance Authority, which are the largest available and ing for in Mobile, Pennrose Properties spokeswoman Lee Reedy Hall said. In fact, the Tuscaloosa Housing Authority had five very competitive, Hall said. He praised Hollyhand and their expe- said. Both developments, which are similar to what might be meetings with residents before they submitted an application with rience for winning such a competitive award. Hall said Holly- developed in Mobile, are mixed-use and mixed-income properties HUD, Hall said. hand applied five times with the state for the tax credits for these that have been built and leased in the last four years, she said. “We consulted with residents and let them know exactly what projects and was successful each time. The developments are mostly filled with market-rate apart- our plans were,” he said. “We had to give them options on where to “That’s why I think it’s great they chose Hollyhand,” Hall said ments and have 100 percent occupancy, Reedy said. Of the 104 relocate. We had to work with them to prepare them for reloca- of the Mobile Housing Board. “They’re one of the best in the units at The George, 21, or about 20 percent, are for low-income tion.” state. Every application we’ve submitted has been awarded. It’s a residents. Of the 150 units at The Vue, 38 are for low-income res- Once the project was approved by HUD, Hall said they gave testament to Hollyhand and their relationship with the state Hous- idents and 112 are market-rate. MHB Executive Director Dwayne residents a 90-day notice. Mobile’s project has not yet been ap- ing Finance Authority.” Vaughn said in other places the percentage of low-income units in proved by HUD, but will have to be before construction starts. The tax credits, which come from the federal government a mixed-income development is about 30 percent. Rules for the relocation of residents in public housing were through the states, are considered private financing because they Shanahan wrote that HUD doesn’t require a certain percent- established with passage of the Uniform Act in 1970, HUD can be purchased by banks, Hollyhand President Win Yerby said. age of low-income units for similar developments. She said the spokeswoman Gloria Shanahan wrote in an email message. Ac- Attaining the tax credits isn’t easy, he said, but it’s where the bulk number of units depends on the “mixed-finance arrangement,” cording to the HUD website, the Uniform Act requires public of funding for these types of development projects is available. which includes federal funding. Shanahan said the financing for entities displacing people from their homes to provide relocation “You have to be experienced in it and it takes a little luck,” Mobile’s project will be reviewed once it’s submitted. advisory services to those tenants, a minimum of a 90-day notice, Yerby said, adding that many applications for the 9 percent tax Each of the housing developments has a first floor dedicated to reimbursement for moving expenses and payments for the added credits are unsuccessful. In fact, he said only about 25 to 30 mixed-use purposes. The VUE has a Barnes & Noble bookstore cost of renting or purchasing comparable replacement housing. percent of those applications are approved. He said Hollyhand on the bottom floor, which is one of the main bookstores supply- “Typically, housing authorities also may provide housing is confident that it can get approved for the tax credits for their ing students at Rutgers University, Reedy said. In addition, The vouchers or access to other housing authority properties as hous- portion of the Mobile project, but he compared it to the football George has retail space on the bottom floor. Both developments ing options for those who wish to remain in the area,” Shanahan teams at Auburn University and the University of Alabama com- have fitness centers.

20 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 Photos/Hollyhand Development (top and bottom right) |Penrose Properties (bottom left) Mixed-use public housing redevelopments in Tuscaloosa (top and lower right) and New Jersey add retail and housing for the middle class.

Pennrose was the developer of both projects which saw a decrease in units from about 1,600 for DEVCO, a non-profit in charge of the to 683 when it was redeveloped. revitalization of New Brunswick that has no Of the 683 units there now, about one third affiliation with the New Brunswick Housing are for low-income residents, on par with the Authority. Pennrose handles the management national model. He said that makes sense, of both developments, including day-to-day given the level of funding housing authorities operations, Reedy said. receive from HUD. Reedy said mixed-use developments and Fortner said the project wouldn’t have been mixed-income developments are becoming completed without the mixed-income aspect. more popular throughout the country. He said HUD provides less than $400 per unit. “We’re not isolating the economic sector “It usually takes two (market-rate) units to anymore,” she said. “We’re making it more of pay for one public housing unit,” he said. a melting pot.” As for trouble leasing market-rate units in Greg Fortner, executive director of the a mixed-income facility, Fortner said there is Housing Authority of New Orleans, said a none. He said all the housing is incorporated Hope VI grant, Community Development into a single plan and “you don’t know who Block Grants, private investments and 9 you’re living next to.” percent tax credits helped fund a $190 million The landfall of Hurricane Katrina, which redevelopment project known as Columbia happened midway through the project, affected Parc. the relocation of residents, Fortner said. All The plan, developed by Columbia Proper- displaced residents were given vouchers to ties and shown on the cover of this issue, is a use to move elsewhere. HANO reached out mixed-use, mixed-income space that includes to residents to see how many wanted to come a space for a charter high school, Fortner back, Fortner said, and fewer than 60 percent said. The plans are still in motion too, he said. indicated they would. In actuality fewer resi- There’s room for more units at the complex, dents than that made the trip back.

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 21 ARTIFICE | ART Artistic gifts start a ceaseless chain BY KEVIN LEE/ARTS EDITOR | [email protected]

n a season of beneficence, I profess the best gifts I ever In middle school, a Les Paul knock-off in the Sears- gence paid off in rapid progress. received were unplanned, unsought and maybe unwar- Roebuck catalog beckoned me, yet the $100 price tag might With my athletic days past, ensemble musical efforts ranted. Their worth? Immeasurable. as well have been $1 million for us. I settled for carving a kept me plugged into the magic of collaboration, where the Creative influences ran rampant through my mater- facsimile from some plywood discovered on a trash heap, loss of ego could craft a greater sum from its parts. Like my nalI lineage with aunts, uncles and cousins who were always then painting it to look like the sunburst Gibson imitation I childhood creative pursuits, music gifted distraction from the painting, drawing, singing, playing instruments. The physical coveted. material austerity in which I dwelled. artifacts of those talents still adorn our houses on canvas, in Though I loved music, I soon extinguished any dreams of My appreciation of audible art deepened in a way I could ceramic or handcrafted leather covers on family Bibles. have never foreseen. There was technical awe, certainly. The My paternal clan carried similar motivations in different way others moved me emotionally through sound or word or form. One aunt’s skill with fabric delivered an occupation It was my early 20s when my mother story, I could now channel into my own efforts. while my father’s ease with the written word became his dropped an acoustic guitar into my What that guitar did was put me back in touch with the vocation. nature of who I am and what gives my life meaning. Those So as a child, keeping myself busy and entertained was hands one Christmas. The shock was re-emergent creative pursuits became a prism to cast my never a question. My imagination made for a deep well. It thorough. Bear in mind, I wanted a guitar as a world in wondrous hue. carried me into adolescence where I graduated with honors small child. I still have Dad’s wooden T-square Plus, in the throes of scarcity still — where my biggest for artistic pursuits and headed off to college to further monthly check is the medical disability payment that doubles those aims. upon which I scrawled strings, a sound hole my income and edges me past the poverty threshold by a slim After a year in a university my art major transformed into and my name then hung it across my shoulders 25 percent — those artistic outlets provide distraction and history, leaving behind what everyone told me were fanciful with shoestrings before strumming out relevance. avenues. I surrendered to pedestrian expectation and kept part Eventually, a stranger liberated that first guitar from my of myself at bay. imaginary chords. parked car on the southern edge of the University of South It was my early 20s when my mother dropped an acoustic Alabama one evening. It wouldn’t be the last instrument guitar into my hands one Christmas. The shock was thorough. playing it. Sports and other things absorbed those energies. stolen from me however the doors that guitar opened, a thief Bear in mind, I wanted a guitar as a small child. I still So I was floored by the six-string surprise all those years couldn’t close. have Dad’s wooden T-square upon which I scrawled strings, later. Cognizance of the true value of art, its relay of the human a sound hole and my name then hung it across my shoulders Real or perceived, disappointment emblazons and Mom condition and the oasis it provides from the mundane world with shoestrings before strumming out imaginary chords. remembered, as mothers always do. Perhaps the sore spot she was an unexpected part of that gift handed to me decades ago. Musical instruction was beyond question. After my parents salved belonged to her as much as me, maybe more so. It’s integral to my being. split, my mother valiantly raised two children on the income I spent the following year with that guitar obsessively at- And in roundabout fashion, it soothed a parent’s gnawing from jobs like veterinary technician and a secretary for a tached to me, carrying it everywhere except to the bathroom. disappointment, returning the comfort she handed to her son. struggling minor league baseball team. A bookkeeper title The rudiments of music theory emerged, along with their You won’t find that in the Sears-Roebuck catalog. was high cotton to us. amazing corollary between mathematics and sound. Dili-

22 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 ART GALLERY | ART Week-long opera celebration in January BY KEVIN LEE/ARTS EDITOR | [email protected]

ust off your spears and horned helmets. Mobile Opera has announced a week devoted to divas and arias scheduled for a variety of venues around the Azalea City. The aim is to bring the Dart form into Mobilians’ everyday routines to cultivate a greater appreciation for opera. They start with an opera cabaret featuring Megan King Jan. 4 at 3 p.m. The Willson Recital Hall on the second floor of the Larkins Music Center at 257 Dau- phin St. is the location as Andy Anderson accompanies King. The mixed bill includes “holiday classics to ring in the New Year.” Photo/Facebook The center’s courtyard is the setting for the next day’s Opera Oasis. Attendees are invited to bring lunch, a book or whatever they wish to take a break from their day’s stress prizes awarded on the half-hour. amidst opera classics. There’ll be no midnight in this oasis as it runs The Jan. 9 LoDa Artwalk is the perfect opportunity to meet Mobile from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Opera’s Young Artist singers, maybe try on some costumes, watch opera On Jan. 6, they introduce a little spontaneity to things with a string cartoons or indulge in some photo-booth fun. All are welcome for the of Opera Moments designed to have singers “pop up” in various locales event that runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. around town. Locations will be unveiled via social media. The culmination of the week is the Madame Rose Palmai-Tenser Social media plays a central role throughout Jan. 7 as Opera Trivia Scholarship Competition on Jan. 10, 1 to 4 p.m. in the Willson Recital unfolds on Facebook and Twitter from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Of course, Hall of the Larkins Center. Emerging artists from around the Southeast there are prizes involved for those who opt to play. will let it all hang out as they perform for a judges panel and attendees. On Jan. 8, Opera Happy Hour runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Firehouse The audience’s collective vote will factor into the selection process and Wine Bar, 216 St. Francis St. The artists of Mobile Opera will entertain winners will be announced on the spot. while attendees sip on Operatifs and Operatinis. There will be door For more information about the week’s events, go to mobileopera.org.

Native son brings comedy Choral auditions on tap show to Dauphin Street f you’re itching to give your pipes a public arena, this might obile comedian/actor Steve Evans took his offbeat stylings to the be your shot. The comfort of a crowd can help ease appre- Windy City for most of the last decade but has now returned with new hension, after all. material and is bringing it to LoDa, where Evans will unveil an original The Greater Mobile Bay Area Choral Society will hold work for the first in his hometown. Iopen auditions Jan. 5, 7 p.m. at Government Street Presby- MOn Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m., the courtyard of OK Bike Shop at 661 Dauphin St. will terian Church, 300 Government St. This is in preparation for be the setting as Trained Monkey Productions, in association with downtown’s all three of the upcoming spring 2015 concerts, in addition to noted (or is that notorious?) Walker brothers, present “Bro. Luther Powell vs. the other performances with area choruses and a chamber orches- Tobacco Demons.” The one-man play wowed a standing-room-only audience dur- tra. ing the Windy City’s Abbie Hoffman Died for Our Sins Theater Festival in 2013. Rehearsals will be held Tuesday evenings, 7-9 p.m. A With a nod toward classic regionally inspired characters like Bro. Dave schedule is prepared each semester with some rehearsals also Gardner, Luther Powell strides the stage in evangelist fashion, striving against the occurring in the Eichold Fine and Performing Arts Building of allure of “cigarettes, whiskey and wild, wild women.” His comic testimonial pulls Spring Hill College. together a wide range of subjects – who knew Hitler rebuked schnapps because it For more information, contact Terry Maddox at 251-434- made him “mean?” – that all culminate in laughter. 9325 or [email protected].

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 23 FEATURE | MUSIC At Studio H2O, Rick is rollin’ on the river BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

uring 2014, more and more professional recording stu- dios made an impression around the Mobile Bay area. Day 6 studio off Cottage Hill Road provides a clean, spacious and modern recording space. The University Dof Mobile dedicated its new Fisher-Brewer Recording Studio in February. Midtown’s Ellinor Place Recording Studio has a little bit of everything. A West Coast transplant is launching Burning City Frontiers from his Mobile County farm. The City Council wrangled with Blue Magic Studio on Western Drive. And sepa- rately, several bands are making live recordings at local venues. At the same time, the current DIY home studio craze has been quite alluring, with a promise of inexpensive quality recordings in a comfortable environment. Lately, one local studio has been providing a stellar combination of these two options. Studio H2O has quickly developed a reputation for providing a professional recording setting with all the comforts of home. Nota- bly, Studio H2O is the home of local guitar legend Rick Hirsch of Wet Willie. Nestled under the oaks and Spanish moss along Dog River, Hirsch has taken what he formerly considered a hobby and evolved it into something bigger. “I never intended the studio to be a public studio,” Hirsch said. “I intended it for doing projects for myself and friends and song- writer projects. Then, it started to slowly become this other thing through word of mouth.” The story of Studio H2O begins decades ago. Growing up in Photo/ Studio H2O/Facebook Mobile, Hirsch developed a love affair with Dog River. He fre- quented its banks and spent much of his time waterskiing there. At Studio H2O, Rick Hirsch has opened a comfortable recording space on Dog River. Even back then, he noticed an impressive house on the shore and always thought it was a very “cool place.” When he decided to move back to the Azalea City, Hirsch found that it was for sale Clapton, Ray Charles and John Coltrane. mix. As far as mixing goes, it’s a familiarity thing with your room so he purchased it. Turns out, high ceilings, wood-panel walls In the mid-‘70s, the future of Wet Willie was unknown. During and monitors and set-up. You end up relying on it. It’s a different and an expansive layout made the house an ideal environment a time of limbo, Hirsch made his way to Los Angeles to look for ballgame than the actual recording process.” for a studio. work but his desire to become an engineer/producer stalled as he Since opening Studio H2O publicly, Hirsch has hosted a variety “It was like this,” Hirsch explained. “It was perfect for the began to tour with several different musical acts. Then, in 1987, of musical acts from around the globe. German guitarist Tom studio thing, and it’s also comfortable to live in. It has two wings. Hirsch finally decided to leave his touring career behind and Riepl has the honor of being the studio’s first project. France’s That upper area is basically where I live. They’re all isolation open his own studio. However, it was a far cry from his previous Sirius Plan also laid down tracks with Hirsch. As far as locals go, rooms and down below is the control room.” projects. Studio H2O has become popular. Eric Erdman recorded his album Studio H2O became a haven for Hirsch to exercise the knowl- “It was basically a jingle type set-up,” said Hirsch. “I started “My Brother’s Keepers” with Hirsch. Deluxe Trio recorded their edge he had gained working in studios in the past. His experience doing jingles for everything from an HMO to a used car lot. I met debut at Studio H2O, and notables such as Beverly Jo Scott have behind the console began in Wet Willie’s Macon, Georgia days, some producers from NBC, who were doing the sports segments. retreated to Dog River to record. when Hirsch admits the concepts of sound engineering and pro- I started getting into that area of music, if you call it that. I was Recently, Hirsch has been working with both Ryan Balthrop ducing were quite intimidating. With the exception of a couple of writing some of the most unmemorable things that I could pos- and Lisa Zanghi respectively on their upcoming albums. Ultimate- sessions in Mobile, he had no previous knowledge of the technical sibly write.” ly, Hirsch thinks that not only the studio but also the environment side of studio work. While his initial projects were not ideal, Hirsch’s time spent will be attractive to musicians looking to record. Studio H2O pro- Eventually, Capricorn (Wet Willie’s label) hired producer Eddie in the studio allowed him to hone his mixing and technical skills. vides what Hirsch calls “a sanctuary” from the outside world with Offord, who was fresh from working consoles in London. Offord’s With his 16-track console, he got hands-on experience with mu- its routines and problems. This productive vibe is amplified by the reputation was built upon his work with a long list of impressive sicians in the studio. The numerous studios around Los Angeles fact that he has room to provide lodging for out-of-town clients. bands that include Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Yes, Dixie Dregs and also gave him the opportunity to borrow gear. But 10 years ago, With all these factors in mind, Hirsch hopes that word of Studio 311. Watching Offord work, Hirsch became fascinated with the Dog River called Hirsch back home to Mobile. After purchas- H2O spreads and that artists wishing to record fill his schedule. role of the engineer/producer. ing his dream house, he set to work building Studio H2O. While “I hope it keeps growing, because it’s what I love to do,” said Along Offord, Hirsch also names Tom Dowd as one of his Studio H2O is based in Mobile, Hirsch still maintains his West Hirsch. “I’ve shifted gears as a guitar/performer person. At my major muses in the studio. Dowd was a huge name in the music Coast studio. age, you feel funny getting on stage and playing rock ‘n’ roll all industry. He was best known for working with icons such as Eric “I still have my place in Los Angeles,” he said. “It’s where I the time. I enjoy the role of producer in helping artists develop.”

24 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 A NOLA supergroup, an ‘infectious’ jam band BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

Band: Dragon Smoke, Post Pluto Date: Saturday, Jan. 3, doors at 8 p.m. Venue: Soul Kitchen, 219 Dauphin St., www.soulkitchenmobile.com Tickets: $18 adv./$22 available online, at the door, Mellow Mushroom (MiMo/WeMo) or by calling 1-866-468-7630 oul Kitchen is kicking off 2015 with a show bridging the far ends of the Gulf Coast. Pensacola’s Post Pluto will open the evening. The five-piece has built their sound on a foundation of improv jam. The band will be performing cuts from the “Good Water EP.” S“Lost,” the album’s introduction, boasts a psychedelic blues sound conjuring the spirit of the ‘60s and ‘70s. While it may show the more mellow side of the band, tracks such as “Synchronistic World” and “House on Fire” are infectiously danceable. Supergroups have been a major trend in modern music. Now, four of the Big Easy’s most beloved musicians have united to create Dragon Smoke. Their origins lie within the yearly “Superjam” at the New Orleans Jazz Heritage Festival. Dragon Smoke brings together singer-songwriter Eric Lindell, keyboardist Ivan Neville of Dumpstaphunk, bassist Robert Mercurio and drummer Stanton More, both of Galactic. The band has grooves galore, but the audience should also listen out for their impressive reggae cover of the Fleetwood Mac classic “Landslide.” Photo/ Dragon Smoke/Facebook | Dragon Smoke

Tall Tales & Tiny Fables Potato family farming Band: Royal Potato Family Jam Band: Oh, Jeremiah Date: Sunday, Jan. 4, 2 p.m. Date: Sunday, Jan. 4, 7:30 p.m. Venue: The Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm, 19375 Rada Venue: Callaghan’s Irish Social Club, 916 Charleston St., www.cal- Road, Silverhill, www.thefrogpondatbluesmoonfarm.com laghansirishsocialclub.com Tickets: $25, call 251-232-3072 for more info Tickets: $7 at the door he Brooklyn-based Royal Potato Family label will take over The Frog Pond for its he warm, cozy environment of Callaghan’s has made it a choice listening room environment first show of 2015. Frog Pond weekly regular Grayson Capps calls the label home for many acoustically-minded singer/songwriters. Oh, Jeremiah can certainly take advantage of and he will be joined by two of his label mates for an afternoon of organic music in the room and provide a memorable performance with beautiful clarity. Oh, Jeremiah is actually a matching environment. Jeremiah Stricklin and he fills his set with “musings and tall tales.” Pulling muses from Ryan TEdward David Anderson recently won over quite a few local fans at his recent performance TAdams and Josh Ritter, Stricklin has a talent for translating life stories into Americana treasures. His at Moe’s Original BBQ. The founding member of Backyard Tire Fire has set out on his own charismatic live performances can take the songs farther. with his new solo effort. “Lies & Wishes” is a superb collection of his handcrafted songs. The Callaghan’s crowd will be sampling songs from Oh, Jeremiah’s latest release “Tall Tales & Tiny Seth Walker will also be representing Royal Potato Family. Hailing from NOLA, Walker Fables,” which showcases Stricklin’s versatile songwriting philosophies. Throughout the album, he performs an old school brand of blues mixing sweet sorrow with a voodoo attitude. Walker maintains a homespun vibe inundated with modern influences. The album’s second track, “Circles,” is a has been on the road promoting his latest album, “Sky Still Blue.” rolling folk ballad. Stricklin smartly contrasts with a strongly poignant song called “Happy Now.” With The Frog Pond stage’s open arms philosophy, this show does not limit itself strictly to the Royal Potato Family. Guitarist extraordinaire Corky Hughes will be adding his influence, and local favorite Andrew Duhon will also be stopping by Blue Moon Farm.

Photo/ Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm / Corky Hughes and Grayson Capps Photo/ Oh Jeremiah/Facebook | Oh Jeremiah

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 25 AREA MUSIC LISTINGS JANUARY 1 - JANUARY 7

Main Street Cigar Lounge— Percy Band Lulu’s— Brent Burns, 4p THUR. JAN 1 Glass Joe Tropics— Rodger Fleshman R-Life Live— Brett LaGrave Blues Tavern— Football Party McSharry’s— DJ Demps, 10p Duo, 7p Dahlia’s Electric Piano Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Kyle Soul Kitchen— Dragon Smoke, Hall— Scott Morlock, Gene TUE. JAN 6 and Karl, 6:30p 8p Murrell & David White Cockeyed Charlie’s— Matt Moe’s BBQ (Daphne)— Veets— The Family Jewels Flora Bama— Neil Dover Neese +1 Soulphonics, 8p Windmill Market— Mitch Band, 10a// Bo Roberts, Mark Felix’s— Lee Yankie R-Life Live— Brett LaGrave Johnson, 11a Sherrill, Chris Newbury, Mickey Flora Bama— Cowboy Tropics— Ragtop, 7p Springston, 12p/// Ben Bradford, Johnson, 3p// Perdido Brothers, 7p Veets— The Family Jewels, 9p 2:30p//// Foxy Iguanas, 4p//// Mario SUN. JAN 4 Hangout— Cribbage, 12p// Windmill Market— Crowned Mena, 8:30p//// Shawna P & Adam Callaghan’s— Oh, Jeremiah Bingo, 6p Jewelz, 6p Tyler Brown, 10p Felix’s— Corey Rezner Lulu’s— Albert Simpson, 4p Legacy— Tim Kinsey Flora Bama— J. Hawkins, 12p// Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— McSharry’s— MacWillies, 7:30p SAT. JAN 3 Perdido Brothers, 4p/// Tony Ray Robbie Sellers, 7p Blues Tavern— Ric Thompson, 8p R-Life Live— Brett LaGrave McNaughton Band Lulu’s— Greg Brown, 1p// Greg Veets— Melissa Joiner and Justin FRI. JAN 2 Callaghan’s— Nick and the Brown, 5p Fobes, 8p AREA MUSIC LISTINGS | Blues Tavern— Midnight Overols McSharry’s— Trad Irish Session, Ramblers Dahlia’s Electric Piano 6:30p Cockeyed Charlie’s— Special WED. JAN 7 Hall— Scott Morlock, Tony Veets— Matt & Sherry Neese, Delivery Band Bucky’s Birdcage (Grand Edwards & David White 8p Dahlia’s Electric Piano Hotel)— Adam Holt Piano Show, Felix’s— Jimmy and John Windmill Market— Leland Hall— Scott Morlock, Tony 8p Flora Bama— LeaAnne Clay, 11a Edwards & David White Butch Cassidy’s— Andy Creswell & john Joiner, 2p// Elaine Felix’s— Blind Dog Mike McDonald Petty, 4:30p/// Jack Robertson Flora Bama— LeaAnne MON. JAN 5 Callaghan’s— Lisa Mills Band Show, 5:30p//// Jezebel’s Chill’n, Creswell & john Joiner, 2p// Jack Blues Tavern— Open Mic Jam Felix’s— Hannah Wallace 6p//// Ryan Balthrop Band, Robertson Show, 5:30p/// Johnny w/ Randy and Art Flora Bama— Welcome 9:30p//// Hart Break Hill, 10p Barbato & Luther Wamble, 6p//// Felix’s— David Chastang Wednesday Music- Tophat & Legacy— Gabe Willis Ben Bradford, 9:30p//// Smokin’ Flora Bama— Cathy Pace, 4p// Jackie, 12p// Neil Dover, 7p/// Lulu’s— Sugarcane Jane, 4p Elvis’, 10p Elaine Petty, 8p Smokin’ Elvis’, 7p McSharry’s— DJ Demps, 10p Legacy— Jon Cowart, 6:30p// Hangout— Gary, 11a// Legacy— John Maddox Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Ben Lisa Mills, 9:30p Snowbirds, 5p Lulu’s— Albert Simpson, 4p Jernigan Duo, 6:30p Lulu’s— Ronnie Presley, 4p Lucky’s Irish Pub— Marcus, R-Life Live— Brett LaGrave Top of the Bay— The Sarah 8p Veets— Grits N’ Pieces, 8p

SEND YOUR MUSIC LISTINGS TO [email protected]

26 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 AREA CLUB LISTINGS [DOWNTOWN] 9 N Jackson St. 285-4596 Ravenite Pizzeria [Fairhope] 251-967-LULU Trader’s Serda’s Coffee Company 102 N. Section St. | 929-2525 Pink Pony Pub [Gulf Shores] 4015 Battleship Pkwy Alchemy Tavern www.serdas.com Rosie’s Grill and Record Bar www.pinkponypub.net 626-5630 alchemy.joltpro.com 3 S. Royal St. | 415-3000 [Daphne] 137 East Gulf Pl. | 978-6371 The River Shack 7 S. Joachin St. | 441-7741 Skyview Lounge www.rosiesgrill.com Pirate’s Cove [Elberta] 6120 Marina Dr. S. The Blind Mule Atop the Lafayette Plaza 1203 U.S. 98|626-2440 www.piratescoveriffraff.com (under Dog River bridge) 57 N. Claiborne St. | 694-6853 301 Gov’t St.| 694-0100 Windmill Market [Fairhope] 6600 County Rd. 95| 987-1224 443-7318 Boo Radley’s Soul Kitchen www.windmillmarket.org Tacky Jacks www.booradleysmobile.com Tin Top www.soulkitchenmobile.com 85 N. Bancroft St. | 517-5444 www.tackyjacks.com 276 Dauphin St. | 432-1996 6232 Bon Secour Hwy. County 219 Dauphin St. |433-5958 [Orange Beach] The Bar Rd. 10 | 251-949-5086 Spot of Tea’s Jaggers [WESTMOBILE] 27206 Safe Harbor Dr, |981-4144 352 St. Francis St. | 648-1596 Touch Down Tavern 310 Dauphin St. | 375-6772 All Sports Bar & Grill [Gulf Shores] The Brickyard 5460 Inn Rd | 662-7543 Studio 5’4 3408 Pleasant Valley Rd. 249 E. 24th Ave.| 948-8881 266 Dauphin St. | 473-4739 VFW Post 7320 [Saraland] 216 Dauphin St. | 725-0406 345-9338 [Gulf Shores] Buck’s Pizza 244 Old Telegraph Rd. |679-1188 T.P. Crockmiers Billiards Club 1577 Alabama 180|968-8341 www.buckspizza.com Whiskey Blues [Theodore] 250 Dauphin St. | 476-1890 4130 Gov’t Blvd.|447-2132 The Handlebar [Pensacola] 350 Dauphin St. | 431-9444 5791 Swedetown Rd.|633-1769 Veet’s Midnight Rodeo www.handlebarpensacola.com Cabo Cantina Zebra Lounge www.veetsbarandgrill.com 7790 Tanner Rd., Ste. B|639-2222 319 N. Tarragona St.| 434-9060 225 Dauphin St. | 441-7685 2343 Dauphin Island Pkwy. 66 S. Royal St.| 694-3090 Cockeyed Charlies The Wharf [Orange Beach] Callaghan’s Irish Social Club 6920 Airport Blvd.|725-1112 4985 Wharf Pkwy.| 224-1000 473-2997 www.callaghansirishsocialclub.com [MIDTOWN] Crooked Martini 916 Charleston St. | 433-9374 [CASINOS] Ashland Midtown Pub www.thecrookedmartini.com [AROUND AND ABOUT] AREA CLUB LISTINGS | MUSIC Dalhia’s Electric Piano Hall www.ashlandmidtownpub.com 7639 Cottage Hill Rd. #C |633-5555 Bill and Charlie’s [Theodore] Beau Rivage [Biloxi] 258 Dauphin St. | 378-5025 2453 Old Shell Rd.| 479-3278 Flashback Club 11470-B Bellingrath Rd.|973-0388 www.beaurivage.com Dauphin St. Blues Company Blues Tavern 10071 Airport Blvd.| 634-2239 Blue Gill Restaurant 878 Beach Blvd.|228-386-7111 & Draft Picks www.bluestavern.com Jag’s Sports Bar & Grill www.bluegillrestaurant.com or 888-595-2534 564 Dauphin St. | 725-6429 2818 Gov’t Blvd. |479-7621 5602 Old Shell Rd.| 725-1102 3775 Battleship Pkwy. |625-1998 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Firehouse Wine Bar Shop Butch Cassidy’s Cafe Lucky Irish Pub & Grill Bottoms Up [Biloxi] 216 St. Francis St. | 421-2022 www.butchcassidys.com 3692 Airport Blvd.| 414-3000 2605 Halls Mill Rd. | 287-7781 www.hardrockbiloxi.com Gabriel’s Downtown 60 N. Florida St. |450-0690 Mellow Mushroom Briar Patch 777 Beach Blvd. 55 S. Joachim St. | 432-4900 Kimberly’s Midtown Bar www.mellowmushroom.com 9371 Dauphin Island Pkwy. |228-374-ROCK (7625) The Garage 2660 Old Shell Rd. |478-1477 5660 Old Shell Rd. | 380-1500 973-1120 Harrah’s Hotel & Casino 9 S. Washington Ave. | 433-2223 Mellow Mushroom Moe’s Southwest Grill Burnout’s Bar & Grill [Saraland] [New Orleans] Grand Central www.mellowmushroom.com www.moes.com 7151 Hwy 158 W | 679-9255 www.harrahsneworleans.com grandcentralmobile.com 2032 Airport Blvd. |471-4700 280 McGregor Ave. S.| 342- 5233 Celtic Irish Pub [Pascagoula] 256 Dauphin St. | 432-6999 228 Poydras St.|504-533-6000 Royal Knight Restaurant Royal Knight 4901 Chicot St. | 228-938-6800 Hayley’s Downtown Grand Casino [Biloxi] 3004 Gov’t Blvd. |287-1220 3004 Gov’t Blvd.| 476-6044 Ed’s Seafood Shed 278 Dauphin St. | 433-4970 www.grandcasinobiloxi.com Silver Horse Pub Patches www.edsshed.com Joe Cain Café 280 Beach Blvd. 151 S. Florida St. |478-7030 5100 Girby Rd.| 661-8028 3382 Battleship Pkwy. | 625-1947 26 N. Royal St. | 338-2000 228-436-2946 Whistle Stop Bar & Grill Satori Coffee House Felix’s Fish Camp Liquid IP Casino Resort & Spa 110 S. Florida St.|478-7427 www.satori-coffee.com www.felixsfishcamp.com 661 Dauphin St. | 432-0109 [Biloxi] 5460 Old Shell Rd. | 344-4575 1530 Battleship Pkwy. |626-6710 Loda Bier Garten www.ipbiloxi.com [EASTERN SHORE] Runway Billards Midnight Rodeo 251 Dauphin St. | 287-6871 850 Bayview Ave. Bay House Pub [Daphne] 8000 Airport Blvd. | 634-8006 7790 Tanner Rd. |639-2222 Mobile Civic Center 800-436-3000 28850 Bayline Dr. | 626-0158 The Hungry Owl Mississippi Coast Coliseum www.mobilecivicctr.com Wind Creek Casino Club 44 [Daphne] 7899 Cottage Hill | 633-4479 [Biloxi] 401 Civic Center Dr. | 208-7261 www.windcreekcasino.com 28850 US 98, #100 | 445-8069 Stir Mobile www.mscoastcoliseum.com O’Daly’s Irish Pub 303 Poarch Rd., Atmore Gumbo Shack 5821 Old Shell Rd., Ste. D | 342-9995 2350 Beach Blvd. |228-594-3700 564 Dauphin St.|725-6429 866-946-3360 www.guysgumbo.com VFW Post 49 The End Zone Sports Bar OK Bicycle Shop 212 Fairhope Ave. | 928-4100 2528 Govt Blvd. | 471-9438 [Mt. Vernon] 19170 Hwy 43. 661 Dauphin St. |432-2453 McSharry’s [Fairhope] 829-9227The Oar House [NEW ORLEANS] Pat’s Downtown Grill www.mcsharrys.com [THE BEACH] [Dauphin Island] House of Blues 271 Dauphin St. | 438-9585 101N Brancroft St. |990-5100 Flora-Bama 1504 Bienville Blvd.| 861-4800 www.houseofblues.com Riverview Plaza (Fathoms Moe’s Original BBQ [Daphne] www.florabama.com Original Oyster House 225 Decatur St . Lounge) www.moesoriginalbbq.com 17401 Perdido Key Dr., www.theoysterhouse.com |504-310-4999 64 S. Water St.| 438-4000 6423 Bayfront Pk Dr.|625-7427 850-492-0611 3733 Battleship Pkwy. |626-2188 Howlin’ Wolf Royal Scam Old 27 Grill [Fairhope] The Hangout Pelican Pub & Restaurant www.thehowlinwolf.com/new- www.royalscammobile.com 19992 Hwy 181 | 281-2663 www.thehangoutal.com [Dauphin Island] orleans 72 S. Royal St.|432-SCAM (7226) Papa’s Pizza [Daphne] 101 Gulf Ct. | 948-3030 1102 DeSoto Ave.| 861-7180 907 S. Peters St. Royal Street Tavern www.papaspizza.com Live Bait Pelican Reef Restaurant 504-522-WOLF (9653) 26 N. Royal St. | 338-2000 28850 US Hwy 98| 626-7662 www.livebaitrestaurant.com 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Louisiana Superdome Saenger Theatre 24281 Perdido Beach Blvd. Plow [Fairhope] | 973-2670 www.superdome.com www.mobilesaenger.com 974-1612 96 Plantation Pointe| 410-7569 Tacky Jacks [Spanish Fort] 1500 Poydras St. |504-587-366 6 S. Joachim St. |208-5600 Lulu’s at Homeport Marina Courtyard 311 www.tackyjacks.com Tipitina’s Saddle Up Saloon www.lulubuffett.com 311 Fairhope Ave. | 928-2032 1175 Battleship Pkwy. |621-8988 501 Napoleon Ave. www.saddleupmobile.com 200 E. 25th Ave. 504-895-TIPS (8477) LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 27 RUNDOWN | MUSIC Years of growth, room to grow BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

ello, my name is Steve Centanni, and I the Mobile Municipal Auditorium’s (aka Mobile Civic am the music editor for this wonderfully Center) past kept touring artists away from the local funky periodical. As we move into a new scene. Now, there are an abundance of diverse national year, I am compelled to step into first- acts regularly touring through Mobile. We have Hperson and write my fellow Mobilians some thoughts watched venues such as Soul Kitchen, the Saenger and reflections which are usually associated with this Theater and Callaghan’s grow. In my early days with time of year. You see, the holiday season is typically a Lagniappe, there was a seemingly endless need for very hit-or-miss time for new music. In the past, I have venues featuring local, original acts. Since, more ven- dreaded compiling this section for the last and first ues have opened their stages to original acts. issues of the year. Why? BayFest used to be the only major music festival in It’s simple. Mobile tends to go through periods of town. Now, we now have the ever-growing South- feast and famine. The turn of each year usually means Sounds Music Festival and the world class Hangout we’re in a famine period. The music industry likes to Music Festival. The brand new AeroFest is on the way take a vacation just as much as we do. In the past, I in March. have been forced to look to our neighbors on the Gulf Another change in the industry has been access to Coast for events, because there is usually not too much recording. As I have written about in several recent going on in Mobile this time of year. issues, Mobile is now home to several impressive As we moved into December, my paranoia over recording studios. Finally, the number of local bands the holiday issues was strengthened by the fact that touring nationally and internationally has definitely during 2014, Lagniappe had increased production to made a difference. They are the reason more eyes are a weekly. Basically, I was faced with the possibility beginning to focus on the Azalea City. that one (if not both) of the issues would be filled As we welcome 2015, I would simply say thank with musical events outside of the Mobile/Baldwin you to the musicians, bands, songwriters, venue own- County area. ers, promoters and studio engineers that have made me But as I began to make choices for these issues, I a happy fan. More than that, I would like to thank all noticed something wonderful had happened. For the the local music fans out there who have helped nurture first time ever, I was able to fill these traditionally the scene over the years. This growth would’ve never difficult issues with nothing but local events. As I rev- taken place without you. I would like to end with eled in the ease of the situation, I began to think about just one more suggestion, and it is directed to local how far the local music scene has come over the past musicians. My best piece of advice for 2015 is to start decade or so. You and I have witnessed the growth a band. Mobile could always use more bands, and I and constant evolution of the local music scene, and I could always use more new bands to cover. With that, Photo/Facebook couldn’t be more pleased. I would like to say good luck and Godspeed in 2015 to The Hangout Music Festival is one of the many enhancements to the local When I began writing for Lagniappe, the stigma of all my fellow music junkies in this beautiful city. music scene over the past decade.

28 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 29 THE REEL WORLD/MOVIE REVIEW | FILM Quirky ‘Frank’ one of the best films of 2014 BY ASIA FREY/FILM CRITIC | [email protected]

n the last days of 2014 I have finally seen an ad- ditional contender for favorite film of the year: “Frank,” with Michael Fassbender, whose glorious human head is covered throughout the film by a Ilarge papier mache one to portray Frank, a strange but brilliant musician. In contrast to this fake face is the open, naïve face of Domhnall Gleeson, who joins Frank’s band and changes his life. Gleeson is touching as Jon, a frustrated wannabe AREA musician, and his desire to move from extreme music THEATERS appreciator to actual music maker is rather touch- ing and perfectly expressed though his earnest but lame songwriting efforts. We see him arriving at his MOBILE parents’ home, rushing to his mixed-tape stuffed bed- room, and hurriedly getting down his bad song ideas COUNTY before he forgets them. He them promptly tweets about these “events.” His suburban life is changed when a group of bi- CARMIkE zarre, committed outsider musicians plays in his town, CINEMAS and a suicide attempt by their keyboardist gives him a Wynnsong 16 chance to play with them. He stands onstage thrill- 785 Schillinger Road S. 251-639-7373 ing at his good luck, when Frank walks on, wearing a Photo/imdb.com | “Frank” wetsuit and his fake head, which is a friendly but blank expression on a kind of oblong, extremely large face. Of Michael Fassbender plays a musician struggling with success and an identity. CRESCENT course, none of the other band members bats an eyelash, and a tantrum by Maggie Gyllenhaal, the most forceful THEATER and also suffer mental illness to various degrees. Southwest festival. 208 Dauphin St. member of the band, ends the gig abruptly. Behind his fake head, Frank is a kind and charismatic Hardly a fame seeking media whore, Jon is neverthe- 251-438-2005 Nevertheless, as Jon toils at his cubicle the next man whose influence verges on that of a cult leader, less light years ahead of the others in terms of ambition, week, a call comes in from the manager (the name of the albeit to a very small cult. Fassbender creates a fully and their initial reluctance to attend is replaced by far band is an unpronounceable series of consonants) ask- HOLLYWOOD realized and fascinating character without the benefit of more serious problems when they actually arrive in ing Jon to join to band for what he thinks is a weekend STADIUM 18 his (dreamy) face, and it’s an amazing performance. The Texas. Frank’s head may be a novelty to his YouTube gig in Ireland, but which ends up as a year-long album 1250 Satchel Paige Drive gimmick of the head makes you notice the film just as it followers, but it is a serious situation for him, and he is recording session in a rented cabin by a lake. 251-473-9655 makes people notice their band, but the story is sincere, far more fragile than Jon realizes. We spend a lot of the movie isolated with this ensem- delightful and moving. The gentle and low-key conclusion to the film is a ble of musicians, and their wonderfully quirky person- It is Jon and his rather mild attempts to promote quietly beautiful testament to the capacity of art to heal alities. Frank’s emphasis is on process, to say the least, the band that bring them uncomfortably face-to-face and connect, however limited that healing may be. In a BALDWIN and, as seen through Jon’s adoring eyes, these painfully with the real world. Posting videos of Frank and the film starring a papier mache face, it was one of the most earnest artists are respected, not mocked. Disdainful of others to YouTube, Jon quietly gains some attention for realistically optimistic moments I have ever seen, and COUNTY Jon and his mainstream ideas, they are all true outsiders, the band, and they get invited to play at the South by one which I’m going to think about for a long time. RAvE MOTION PICTURE NEW IN THEATERS NOW PLAYING JUBILEE SqUARE 12 WIlD THE HUNgER gAMES: 6898 U.S. Highway 90 Daphne Eastern Shore Premiere Cin- MOckINgJAy- PART 1 251-626-6266 ema 14, Cobb Pinnacle 14, All listed multiplex theaters. Carmike Wharf 15 ExODUS: gODS AND kINgS CARMIkE INTO THE WOODS All listed multiplex theaters. CINEMAS Crescent Theater, Regal Mobile 23151 Wharf Lane Stadium 18, Carmike Wynnsong BIg HERO 6 Orange Beach All listed multiplex theaters. 16, Carmike Jubilee Square 12, 251-981-4444 PENgUINS OF MADAgAScAR Eastern Shore Premiere Cinema COBB 14, Cobb Pinnacle 14 Regal Mobile Stadium 18, Car- mike Wynnsong 16, Eastern THEATRES Photo/ imdb.com THE gAMBlER Shore Premiere Cinema 14 PINNACLE 14 Regal Mobile Stadium 18, East- 3780 Gulf Shores Pkwy forced to evacuate their SElMA ern Shore premiere Cinema 14 TOP FIvE Gulf Shores Martin Luther King, Lyn- home in London, care- Regal Mobile Stadium 18, Car- 251-968-7444 don Johnson, and the takers Eve and jean THE HOBBIT: THE BATTlE mike Wynnsong 16, Carmike bring everyone to the civil rights marches that OF THE FIvE ARMIES” Jubilee Square 12, Eastern EASTERN desolate and eerie Brit- changed America. Regal All listed multiplex theaters. Shore premiere Cinema 14, SHORE Mobile Stadium 18. ish countryside where ANNIE Cobb Pinnacle 14 PREMIERE the events of the first CINEMA 14 film took place 40 years All listed multiplex theaters. BIg EyES THE WOMAN IN BlAck before. Soon they begin 30500 State Highway 181 NIgHT AT THE MUSEUM: Carmike Wynnsong 16. Spanish Fort 2: ANgEl OF DEATH to sense The houses 251-626-0352 darkest inhabitant. Regal SEcRET OF THE TOMB UNBROkEN When a group of or- All listed multiplex theaters. All listed multiplex theaters. phaned children are Mobile Stadium 18 Information accurate at press time; please call theaters for showtimes. 30 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 31 MEDIA FRENZY | MEDIA Marshall leaves Alabama Media Group BY ROB HOLBERT/MANAGING EDITOR | [email protected]

he last editor of the Mobile Press-Register is calling to the statewide commentary director position for AMG and it quits. a couple of months later the P-R, Birmingham News and Mike Marshall, who served in a variety of Huntsville Times were all retracted to three-day-a-week positions during his decades at the P-R, including publications. Tmanaging editor and editor, announced Dec. 22 he would be Marshall took some local and even national criticism for leaving as of the finish of the just-ended year. helping author the infamous headline “Exciting changes for Marshall most recently served as commentary editor our readers,” which ran over front-page announcement the for the Alabama Media Group, which oversees the vari- paper would no longer be printing daily and would cut staff. ous Newhouse-owned newspapers and web outlets in the He started with the Press-Register in 1973 when he was state. He began serving as the paper’s editor in 1999 when hired as a copyboy. He worked his way up to serve as a former editor Stan Tiner left to head the Daily Oklahoman. police reporter, copy editor, movie reviewer, computer sys- He didn’t offer many details as to whether his departure was tems editor, columnist, feature writer, graphic design editor, the result of more downsizing at AMG or just a desire to do managing editor and ultimately editor. He attended Spring something else. Hill College. “I can’t discuss the circumstances of my departure in Currently Marshall also serves as president for the any detail, but 40 years at one job is enough already: Time Alabama Press Association. He intends to carry on with the to find some other mischief to get into. I wouldn’t trade APA, he said. my time at the Press-Register for anything, and wish my “My term as prez ends in February as scheduled, and I colleagues there every success. In the short term, Anne and plan to remain active on the board after that. We’ll be trying I look forward to goofing off for a few months,” he wrote to get an amended Alabama’s open meetings law through the when contacted. 2015 legislative session, for instance,” he wrote. While Marshall was not as regular a writer as his prede- cessor, he did earn recognition for a series of articles that Halfway thinking and drawing resulted from his travels to war-torn Iraq from 2003 to 2005 The Alabama Media Group’s acclaimed political cartoon- — articles that offered a boots-on-the-ground look at what ist JD Crowe has released a new book titled “Half-Thunk Alabama National Guard troops were enduring there. Thoughts and Half-Fast Drawings.” As the P-R’s editorial leader Marshall helped oversee The book, released by River’s Edge Media, is compila- the paper’s move in 2002 to a huge new building on Water tion of random thoughts and musings that ultimately found Street, complete with a new $20 million printing press. But their way to the artist’s Twitter feed and an audience of folks over the next decade he would also oversee the downsiz- who look to his online presence for a daily dose of Southern Photo/River’s Edge Media ing of the print product in Mobile as Newhouse shifted its humor and dry wit, along with some funny drawings. nationwide vision towards building digital dominance in the The book is a great collection of random thoughts and Press-Register’s cartoonist JD Crowe releases new book. states where it owns newspapers. In July 2012 he was moved pointed humor.

32 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 C O E GODADDy BOWL MAyOR’S LuNCHEON WHERE: MOBILE CONVENTION CENTER WHEN: NOON, FRIDAy, J AN. 2

Former NFL MVP quarterback and college football Hall of Famer Joe Theismann, this year’s featured guest speaker, will address members of the participating teams, city officials, corporate sponsors and fans. A $1,000 GoDaddy Bowl book scholarship will be awarded to 10 high school seniors from the surrounding areas to be used to purchase books for college. Tickets are $30 per person. The luncheon is held at Mobile Convention Center. Visit godaddybowl.com for tickets and more information. Photo/NFL.com

January 1 Magic Christmas in Lights Christmas Nights of Light January 6 First Day Hike Visit Bellingrath Gardens and Home Hundreds of thousands of LED lights, Tea for Two The fourth annual First Day Hike event during its 19th season of Magic Christmas driven by over one thousand computer The Fairhope Museum of History will host is scheduled for New Year’s Day at five in Lights. Magic Christmas in Lights runs channels, synchronized to both traditional “Tea for Two” at 2 p.m. The speaker will of Alabama’s state parks. The Gulf State until Jan. 3 and is closed on Christmas and new rocking Christmas music playing be Nancy Raia. Each Tuesday afternoon Park is one of those participating, with a and New Years Day. The gardens are open through your car radio. Pack your vehicle at 2 p.m., the Museum hosts a tea where 2-mile outdoor adventure set to begin at during Magic Christmas in Lights from 8 full of friends and family to enjoy the show 1 p.m. on the Gulf Oak Ridge Trail. Park a.m. until 9 p.m., and the holiday lights as you begin a new Christmas tradition. guests enjoy a cup of delicious Baldwin officials encourage hikers to check the are on from 5-9 p.m. on each of these The fun doesn’t stop after you drive thru County tea, cookies and a lecture on an weather forecast and to plan accordingly, days. Home tours run every half hour until the mile and a half Christmas show — interesting aspect of Fairhope history. by dressing in layers and bringing plenty 8 p.m. throughout the season. Bellingrath afterward you can visit Santa’s Village. These very popular afternoon events are of water and snacks. Participants are Gardens and Home is located at 12401 Christmas Nights of Lights invites you sponsored by the Friends of the Museum encouraged to post photos on social Bellingrath Road, Theodore, Alabama. to celebrate Christmas with us at Hank group. For more information on the media, using the hashtag #FirstDayHikes. Call 251-973-2217 for more information. Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd. upcoming “Tea for Two” programs, call For more information, call 251-948-7275 The show is nightly at dusk until 10 p.m. the Fairhope Museum of History at 251- or visit www.alapark.com. January 3 Admission is $6 per person. 929-1471. GoDaddy Bowl Parade

7, 2015 1, 2015 - J ANUARY EVENTS | J ANUARY Gowns Galore A Mardi Gras parade will be held in the January 4 New, nearly new and vintage gowns will streets of downtown Mobile starting at GoDaddy Bowl Game Azalea City Harmony Open House be for sale to benefit Our Sisters’ Closet. 6:30 p.m. Sixteen Mardi Gras societies A national television audience will tune Azalea City Harmony is part of sweet OF Our Sisters’ Closet will have Mardi Gras, will be represented with floats and throws in to ESPN at 8 p.m., for the 16th annual Adelines International, a highly respected prom and mother of the bride gowns as for the crowd. Several local high school GoDaddy Bowl, featuring the University worldwide organization of women singers. well as winter and transitional clothing marching bands will join the parade, as of Toledo and Arkansas State University. Women of all ages who enjoy singing are and accessories for sale at the Sisters of well as the bands and cheerleaders from The GoDaddy Bowl has built a reputation invited to attend this open house event. Mercy Building, St. Mary’s Parish, 1452 each participating Bowl team. A huge of fielding some of the most competitive Discover why thousands of women Old Shell Road. The sale will be Jan. 1-3, crowd is expected to pack the streets of and exciting games of the bowl season. around the world are singing with the 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our Sisters’ Closet downtown Mobile for this early rendition The game has featured incredible sweet Adelines International. Join the fun, improves the self-confidence and job of the Mardi Gras season. performances by future NFL standouts ALENDAR the music, and the friendship. This event opportunities by providing free interview LaDanian Tomlinson, Byron Leftwich and C and workplace clothing to in-crisis women GoDaddy Pep Rally Ben Roethlisberger. The game is played is free to attend and will be held at Mobile who are job seeking. For more information Immediately following the GoDadddy at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. For more Christian School, 5900 Cottage Hill Road. call 251-432-2001 or visit oursisterscloset. Bowl parade, the party moves to the information visit godaddybowl.com. The open house will start at 7 p.m. For org. South Plaza of the Mobile Convention more information call 251-767-8606. Center along Water Street where a Open Studio Polar Bear Dip fireworks show over Mobile River Come enjoy complimentary mimosas BINGO Thousands of participants, many in highlights the festivities and sets the as artists work at the Cathedral Square Join The Haberdasher at 451 Dauphin outlandish forms of attire, will gather to tone for both schools’ official pre-game Gallery, 612 Dauphin St. There will also St. every Tuesday beginning at 9:30 p.m. “hit the beach” at the crack of noon for pep rallies. The free street party features be works by more than 60 area artists on for Bingo, with prizes every round and the Flora-Bama’s 31st annual Polar Bear famous local band “Hot Wire.” display. For more information call 251- drink specials. Free to play. For more Dip. Souvenir shirts will be available with 694-0278. a traditional fest of black-eyed peas, Film “Cloudburst” information call 251-287-1976. cornbread, ham and with beer or soda Cloudburst is a 2011 adventure comedy- January 5 for all survivors. All day celebration to drama in which a lesbian couple escape Ballroom Dance January 7 follow with live music, along with our from their nursing home and head up to The Moonlight Chasse Ballroom Bend & Brew favorite bowl games on more than 24 Canada to get married. Along the way, Dance Society hosts dance classes Join Fairhope Brewing every Wednesday big-screen TVs. For more information visit they pick up a young male hitchhiker. The with professional instructors at 7 p.m., night starting at 6 p.m. for Hoppy Yoga. www.florabama.com or facebook.com/ Mobile couple receiving the proceeds followed by dancing from 7:30–10 p.m. The taproom is transformed into a yoga florabama. from the showing are Cari Searcy and Admission is $10. There will be a cash bar studio with Soul Shine Yoga leading Kimberly McKeand. The couple was and no need to bring a partner. Beginners the session. It’s only $5 to participate January 2 legally married six years ago in California, are welcome. Fitzpen Place, 11247 State in the class and then you can stick GoDaddy Bowl Mayor’s Luncheon and have raised a son together. Alabama Highway 31, Spanish Fort. For more around for beer specials as well as light Former NFL MVP quarterback and college state officials denied Searcy’s second- information, email Cassie Fishbein at snacks provided by Pretty Mean Sweets. football Hall of Famer Joe Theismann, parent adoption of the child, citing the [email protected]. Fairhope Brewing is located at 914 this year’s featured guest speaker, will state’s ban on same-sex marriage. Members of the local progressive church Ark of India Nichols Ave., Fairhope. address members of the participating Open Table are joining with local gay “Ark of India: An Alabama Artist Explores teams, city officials, corporate sponsors rights organization Wave of Hope to Southern Asia” is an exhibit about Tour Space 301 and fans. A $1,000 GoDaddy Bowl book stage this event they are calling the “Love personal discovery and exploration. It Tours of the Main Gallery and scholarship will be awarded to 10 high Will Win Movie Premiere.” This award- is an account of late 19th and early Fabrication Hall are every Wednesday school seniors from the surrounding areas winning film will be shown at 3:30 p.m. at 20th century India as seen by Alabama and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to be used to purchase books for college. Bernheim Hall in the Ben May Library. For artist Roderick D. MacKenzie, using his at the Centre for the Living Arts/Space Tickets are $30 per person. The luncheon a suggested donation of $10, moviegoers paintings, drawings, sculptures and most 301, 301 Conti St. Tours included with is held at Mobile Convention Center. Visit can enjoy this one-time-only showing and importantly, photographs and writings. the price of admission. Call 251-208- godaddybowl.com for tickets and more support a worthy cause. The Ben May The exhibition is organized by the History 5671 or visit www.centreforthelivingarts. information. library is downtown at Government and Museum of Mobile at 111 S. Royal St. and Washington, with plenty of free parking. is on view until Sept. 1, 2015. com for more information.

SEND YOUR EvENTS TO [email protected]

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 33 UPON FURTHER REVIEW | SPORTS Events make GoDaddy Bowl more than just a football game BY J, MARK BRYANT/SPORTS WRITER | [email protected] | Twitter @goulaguy

Photos/GoDaddy Bowl With a parade prior to the game and programs throughout the year, the GoDaddy Bowl keeps an ongoing profile in the community.

ootball, parades and parties are on the lineup this week- Joining him on the all-conference squad are linebacker Patrick will also toss the official game coin prior to kickoff end, as the annual GoDaddy Bowl gets set to kick off on Qushaun Lee and defensive back Artez Brown. On the second- Sunday night, and later present the GoDaddy Bowl trophy to the Sunday night at 8 p.m. This marks the 16th year Ladd- team roster are running back Michael Gordon, defensive lineman winning team. Tickets for the game are $45 for sideline seats and Peebles Stadium has hosted a post-season showdown Ja’Von Rolland-Jones and kick returner Blaise Taylor. $15 for the end zone. Tickets are available by calling Cape Travel Fbetween college squads. The Red Wolves are 2-1 during their previous trips to the Go- at 251-344-2789 or the bowl office. Previous contests have featured future NFL players such as Daddy Bowl. They lost to Northern Illinois in 2012, but have come Ben Roethlisberger, LaDainian Tomlinson and Byron Leftwich. back to knock off Kent State and Ball State the last two seasons. More than just a game This year’s rosters are full of their own stars. Most people in Mobile only think about the football game The Toledo Rockets come in 8-4 overall and with a 7-1 Plenty of activities on tap when they hear GoDaddy Bowl. However, the organization keeps record in the Mid-American Conference. This is the school’s The week of events begins New Year’s Eve, with a welcom- busy throughout the year with community projects. second trip to the Mobile bowl, having beaten UTEP 45-13 in ing reception and shrimp boil for both teams at Ladd-Peebles They recently hosted the 14th annual HOAR Program Manage- the 2005 contest. Stadium. The party continues the next day, with players gathering ment/GoDaddy Bowl Reading and Writing Program. The seven- At 34 years of age, Matt Campbell is one of the youngest for a luncheon at the USS Alabama. Admission to these events are week contest, which ended in October, was open to fifth-graders head coaches in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Over the last by an invitation. in Alabama, as well as along the Gulf Coast region in Mississippi three years, he has directed to Rockets to an 18-6 conference The schedule heats up Friday. After the players visit young and Florida. Students submitted a written book report in 250 mark. He was rewarded last week with a new contract through patients at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, the mayor’s words or less, with a panel of judges selecting 10 finalists. the 2020 season. luncheon will take place with special guest speaker and former More than 2,000 students were invited to the award ceremony Toledo had 11 players earn All-MAC honors. Senior center NFL quarterback Joe Theismann. During the banquet, the GoDaddy at the Mobile Civic Center Theater Dec. 3. The 10 finalists, Greg Mancz is a three-time all-league performer and the 2014 Bowl will present Champion of Life awards to individuals who who received College Counts 529 funds, will also participate in Vern Smith Leadership Award recipient. His offensive line helped have overcome obstacles and given back to the community. Tickets mayor’s luncheon, the parade and the bowl game. the Rockets average 34 points per game this season. to the luncheon at the Mobile Convention Center are $30, and can Catherine Liu Chung, of Old Shell Road Elementary, re- Sophomore running back Kareem Hunt and senior linebacker be purchased by calling the GoDaddy Bowl office at 251-635-0011. ceived the top prize of $5,000. Edgewood Elementary had the Junior Sylvestre were on the All-MAC first-team unit. Despite More events are set for Saturday, but the highlight is the next two winners, with Tully Mitchell earning $3,000 and Luke missing three games with an ankle injury, Hunt gained 1,360 impressive Mardi Gras-style parade on the streets of downtown Keown getting $1,500. The $1,000 winners were Marion Starnes, yards and scored 11 touchdowns. He led the MAC with an aver- Mobile at 6:30 p.m. NASCAR driver Danica Patrick will be the Andalusia Elementary; Jadon King, Prattville Elementary; and age of 151.1 yards per game. Sylvestre, meanwhile, paced the grand marshal. Sixteen Carnival societies will be represented Annika Ung, St. Elmo. The $500 winners were Savanah Goff, Rockets’ defense with 94 tackles. with floats and throws. Along with area high school bands, the Dixon Elementary; Christopher Banashak, Castlen Elementary; This is almost a homecoming game for Arkansas State, as cheerleaders and marching bands for Toledo and Arkansas State Jake Jordan, Dawes Intermediate; and Elizabeth Kell, W.J. Carroll this marks the Red Wolves’ fourth straight trip to Mobile. While will appear. Elementary. celebrating the school’s 100th year of fielding a football team, The activities continue at 8 p.m. in Cooper Riverside Park. A Other events sponsored by the GoDaddy Bowl during the ASU went 7-5 overall and 5-3 in the Sun Belt Conference. The fireworks display over the Mobile River will light up the night, year are the celebrity golf tournament in June; the free half-day highlight for head coach Blake Anderson’s team came during a while each team will have a pep rally outside the Mobile Conven- football clinic for boys and girls ages 5 to 13 in June; the sailing 21-14 overtime victory over Utah State, which finished the year tion Center. regatta for boats 19 feet or longer on Mobile Bay in November; 10-4 after winning the New Mexico Bowl. On Sunday, a golf tournament for alumni groups and fans from along with the New Horizons Credit Union art contest for all high Leading the Red Wolves’ offense is dual-threat quarterback Fre- the bowl teams is planned at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course school seniors in Mobile and Baldwin counties that runs through di Knighten. The all-SBC performer passed for 2,874 yards and 19 at Magnolia Grove. The cost is $85, which includes breakfast, September and October, with the awards ceremony in November. touchdowns, while also rushing 774 yards and 11 scores this year. lunch, door prizes and tournament gifts. To reserve a spot, call the And don’t forget, there is a football game thrown in there each In the finale against New Mexico State, he threw for 296 yards, ran GoDaddy Bowl office. year. So, let the party begin. for 153 and accounted for four touchdowns in a 68-35 win.

34| LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 1. Budding socialite 4. Inconclusive 8. Foot division 12. Word of support 13. One with a glazed look? 14. Something to walk on 15. Playing pieces 16. Do some cutting, maybe 17. Aspen forecast 18. Adversary of Bugs 20. Shared airs 21. Chesterfield, e.g. 23. Outlet 25. Old hat 27. “___ cheese!” 28. Top secret? 31. Some jazz ensembles 33. Sauce for falafel 35. Is in the past? DOWN 26. Behavioral principle 36. Conned 1. Three Gorges project 28. Venus or Serena 38. Knuckleheads 2. Good looker? 29. Passionate about 39. Dentist’s request 3. Fund-raising events 30. Essence 41. Part of a schedule 4. Bullet on an agenda 32. Sorry 42. Sight-related 5. Bona ___ (credentials) 34. Throng 45. Muslim legal adviser 6. Plays footsie, perhaps 37. Reserved 47. Dear companion? 7. “Are we there ___?” 39. Electrician’s concern 48. Vapor 8. Focus of debate 40. Hearsay 49. Mariner’s direction 9. All alternative 42. Erstwhile 52. Nurse’s offering 10. Congeal 43. Christmas tree? 53. Club choice 11. Wields an ax 44. Hawaiian root 54. Bossy bellow 19. After the deadline 46. Manage without as- 55. Archer of myth 20. Wood nymph sistance 56. Hardly Mr. Cool 21. Put aboard 48. Shark sighting, often 57. Fix the rent? 22. “Jaws” craft 50. Dr. No, to 007 24. Bit for a stable diet? 51. Post-breakdown need Answers on Page 36

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 35 PORT CITY PREMONITIONS | STYLE

Scorpio applauds next big project BY DR. ZODIAC/ASTROLOGY GUY

Capricorn (12/22 - 1/19) — After a Cancer (6/21 - 7/22) — With your “film” 19-year-old British girl admits to playing the career over, you’ll focus on community theatre sun on hit children’s show Teletubies, you’ll and tell yourself that the time is right and muster up the courage to admit to being the smaller venues are where your heart is. You’ll baby born in the elevator in the 1992 episode star in shows alongside the owner of a local of “Roseanne.” However, as “Roseanne” is — car dealership, but go home miserable because with the exception the Hindenburg— undoubt- you blew your “big break.” Take heart though edly the worst humanity ever captured on film, because your performance as Kim Jong Un in your admission will not be as well received. the stage version of “The Interview” will get Eventually, you’ll be run out of Mobile to a positive review in Murphy High School’s take shelter in Fairhope, where, as their only student newspaper “The Cat Call.” connection to the poor, Fairhopians cherish the ‘90s classic. Leo (7/23 - 8/23) — A week from Thurs- day, world-renowned saxophonist Kenny G Aquarius (1/20 - 2/18) — You are appalled will deliver an impromptu jazz performance by the news that Dustin Diamond, aka Screech at a local Wal-Mart. Sponsored by Charmin from “Saved by the Bell,” was arrested for toilet paper, Kenny will serenade toilet-paper stabbing someone in a barroom altercation over lovers worldwide, congregating on aisle six to the holidays. No matter what dumb archtype take a bold stance in denouncing those pesky you identified with on the show, somehow we dingleberries. After a moving rendition of “My all could relate to Screech’s sweet innocence Heart Will Go On,” the lady standing next to before he was corrupted by the world’s hate you will lean in and tearfully whisper, “he is an and left as a thorn (or a switchblade) in all our American treasure.” sides. You offer to testify on his behalf, and an exhaustive, rambling psychological analysis Virgo (8/24 - 9/22) — Your heart will you enter into evidence becomes a cautionary slowly break into a million little pieces when tale for child actors everywhere. you learn a coworker is not too amused with Pusheen the cat. It’s clear your love for the Pisces (2/19 - 3/20) — The news that the emoticon might be a little unhealthy, but your war in Afghanistan is officially over leads you cohort doesn’t even know what sending a Face- to terminate some of your life’s other extended book sticker means. Annoyed, you’ll create a affairs. You finally return the hammer you group chat appropriately named “Work She- borrowed from a neighbor four years ago; you nanigans” to educate your unlearned coworker change fabric softener brands for a refreshing on Internet trends and words like “thirsty” and CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS new start; you promise to throw away a com- “ratchet.” fortable old sweater that has gotten too ragged. You’re going to regret throwing that sweater Libra (9/23 - 10/22) — After hearing about away. Don’t. a guy who chugged a carton of eggnog in a record-breaking 12 seconds, you’ll set out to Aries (3/21 - 4/19) — Thank God the holi- make yourself the new champion. Turns out the days are finally over because your in-laws were guy was hospitalized for basically inhaling the getting more annoying than that pop-up dona- thick liquid into his lungs, but you won’t know tion ad on Wikipedia. That’s an appropriate that until after you’ve downed the holiday metaphor because your sister’s husband also drink in a whopping six seconds. You’ll be hit you up for gas money. Things got uncom- transported to the hospital near immediately fortable when he brought an assault rifle to the while brown liquid pours from all your orifices. dinner table, but the last straw was watching Local news stations will rejoice, as you’ll be him melt down over a missing $50 gift card. the first suspected case of Ebola in 2015. You’re not immoral for wishing he was dead, as long as try to imagine that he passes into the Scorpio (10/23 - 11/21) — You’ll be one of next life in a very natural and peaceful way. many proud citizens after the Mobile County Commission decides to move ahead with Taurus (4/20 - 5/20) — After your wild $8 trillion, bond-funded “Space Port” at the FROM PAGE 35 experience at MoonPie Over Mobile and a mouth of the Mobile river. Knowing space stay in the drunk tank, you’ll promise your travel is the next big economic development family a calm January. You’ll try to stay out of venture, the always-forward-thinking commis- F trouble, but when you’re unable to find a job sion will break ground on the facility that will due to a “slow market,” also known as your undoubtedly send the Port City “to infinity, and U philosophy degree, you’ll get antsy. Unable to beyond.” However, after a promised partner- T behave yourself with so little going on in your ship from a private organization falls through, life, you’ll begin stealing extension cords in the the debt cripples the county, which is eventu- U Oakleigh Garden District. Luckily for you, the ally unincorporated to become a parking lot for R crime will go unnoticed and you’ll never get Baldwin County. caught. E Sagittarius (11/21 - 12/22) — Finally free Gemini (5/21 - 6/21) — Life without a from the terrors of constant Christmas music, S spouse will wear thin, as soon as the chores you’ll celebrate the way any self-respecting they used to do start to back up. With the gentleman would — by dusting off your trusty H household chef gone, you’ll get tired of ramen of copy of Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic 2001.” O noodles and ice cream. You’ll notice the trash However, you’ll have egg on your face when backs up with the family trash hauler out of the your priest asks for a ride this week and is im- C home and you’ll be forced to use paper plates. mediately inundated with lyrics about “blunts K You’ll become depressed and will get moti- and forties” after entering your midsized sedan. vated to get a job and your family back, but not Struggling to come up with a an excuse, you’ll before the “Parks and Recreation” marathon be relieved as Father Michaels recites the entire ends on TBS. second verse of the “What’s the Difference?” without missing a beat.

36 | LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 THE LOADED QUESTION WHAT IS yOuR NEW yEAR’S RESOLuTION? ASKED AT CALLAGHAN’S

I want to get off tobacco I want to lose weight I want to stop my extension - Derek - Robert cord kleptomania - Princess Fairlane

LAGNIAPPE | January 1, 2015 - January 7, 2015 | 37 FEATURE | STYLE Clearing out all kinds of clutter BY CASANDRA BUTLER ANDREWS

aris Love can bring order to chaos in the time it takes to get a good night’s sleep. She’s been known to transform a cluttered home office — jam-packed with years of paper- work, extra furniture and supplies — in just a few hours. PA member of the National Association of Professional Or- ganizers, the Chicago native has been helping people eliminate clutter from their homes, offices and lives for more than 11 years. Her motto: Have clutter, will travel. “Clutter is really a symptom of something else,” Love said. “We have physical clutter and emotional clutter. Sometimes, we don’t realize the things we hold on to affect our lives. A lot of the time, we don’t know how or why it is occurring.” For example, when you have to spend time searching for pa- Photos courtesy of Paris Love pers you’ve lost on your desk, or buying another stapler because you can’t find the one you bought to replace the last one you Organizing a cluttered office can make for a more productive work environment. couldn’t find, you are wasting time and money you could have saved if you were more organized. not using this should we give it to someone who can use it. There assign tasks to the right people. In a corporate environment, we Love was the kind of child who never had to be told to clean are some people who probably never had a purse. “I said ‘Why might feel we need to do everything, but you have to delegate her room. She alphabetized her books and toys, always looking don’t we release it to the universe so they can have it?’” projects. Give people tasks they are good at. At home, divide the for ways to be more neat and tidy. As an adult, she would orga- Along the way, Love has written and co-written half a dozen chores. One spouse might pay the bills, one might do the grocery nize her friends’ homes for fun, rearranging and straightening, she books on organizing, productivity and reclaiming your home, of- shopping. Get the kids involved, too, because you are teaching said, because she couldn’t seem to help herself. fice and career through the power of organization. They are avail- them these skills. Have a child write out the grocery list. Later, her friends became her first paying clients. “I think able on her website and other outlets including Amazon, Barnes RETAIN: In business, it’s vital to retain the right employees, whenever you can turn your passion into something that you truly & Noble and Books-A-Million. tools and supplies to get the job done. At home, you should keep love,” Love said, it doesn’t feel like work. For Thanksgiving, she While hiring a professional can give you the push you need only the things you truly love. If you don’t love it, let it go. Often, rearranged her own office. to get more organized, Love said anyone can make changes for we keep things we don’t love because it belonged to our mom or “I’m always doing some type of organization or seeing how I a neater, less cluttered, more intentional life. Here are five tips to dad. It has a sentimental value. can change something.” Helping people reclaim a room or an en- help jump-start the process: INVEST: Investing in your personal and/or professional de- tire house brings her joy. “It’s so cool, I still get excited about it.” PLAN: Decide what your goal is then create a strategy to get velopment is vital. It doesn’t cost you anything to get organized. Love said she finds that many people are apprehensive about there. Be sure to write down your goal and put it somewhere you Whether you do it yourself or bring in a professional, becoming having a stranger come into their home, afraid that she will toss can see it. A lot of times people look around and there is so much more organized is an investment in your future and ultimately in out their treasures. A while back, she was part of a team featured paper and so much stuff. Here’s a tip for mail: When you go to your well-being. on the television show Hoarders, helping a family in north Mobile the mailbox, you are usually passing a trash can. Get the mail, SIMPLIFY: It’s all about keeping it simple. The key to organi- County separate themselves from a lifetime of clutter, including look at it, and toss all the junk before going back into the house. I zation is consistency. Once you have the process down, you really more than 5,000 purses. recycle, so I put it in the recycle bin. have to be consistent. Being able to find things when you need it “That was a team effort,” Love said. We talked about if you are ASSIGN: In business and your personal life, it’s important to will increase your productivity.

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