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Guide to 2008 |2008 Interview with Sophomore Attempt | Juno | Tommy’s Pizza | 3 Eclectic Chicks | Tom Nehl Foundation free weekly guide to entertainment and more | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | www.eujacksonville.com 2 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper table of contents feature Guide To 2008...... PAGE 17 movies Movies in Theaters this Week...... PAGES 6-10 The Great Debaters (movie review)...... PAGE 6 Juno (movie review)...... PAGE 7 National Treasure: Book of Secrets (movie review)...... PAGE 8 Margot at the Wedding (movie review)...... PAGE 9 Waterhorse: Legend of the Deep (movie review)...... PAGE 10 home Mid-Season TV ...... PAGE 12 Netscapades...... PAGE 13 Videogames ...... PAGE 13 dish Dish Update...... PAGE 14 Tommy’s Pizza Bistro (restaurant review)...... PAGES 14-15 Marina Restaurant at Safe Harbor (restaurant review)...... PAGE 16 music Music Calendar...... PAGES 18-22 kLoB (Cafe 331)...... PAGE 18 ASG (interview)...... PAGE 19 Sophomore Attempt (interview)...... PAGE 20 arts / theatre / on stage Breaking Up Is Hard To Do (Alhambra)...... PAGE 22 3 Eclectic Chicks Trunk Show ...... PAGE 23 Tom Nehl Foundation...... PAGES 24-25 columns and stuff Native Foreigner...... PAGE 26 The Jock...... PAGE 26 NASCAR News & Notes...... PAGE 27

eujacksonville.com | december 27 - january 2, 2008 3 Rhonda Vincent will perform thisweek at the Bluegrass Festival january 4 - 5 january 3 thursday Hell on Wheels Hell on Wheels is the ass kicking Twelve Gauge Valentine documentary film telling the story of a group Twelve Gauge Valentine, a Tampa hardcore outfit that’s been touring of Texas women who band together to the scene for five years now, have decided to break up. Their final resurrect roller derby for the 21st century. tour with The Handshake Murders, Memphis May Fire and SBW is Emerging from the Austin music and arts rolling through town on Thursday. Come out and show some love scene, these women create a rock and roll while you can. Tickets: $10. Jack Rabbits- 7 pm, Info: (904) 398- fueled version of all-girl roller derby that has 7496 spawned the derby craze that’s sweeping the nation. Tickets: $8.25. San Marco Theatre- january 3 - 5 11:55 pm, Info: (904) 703-2446

32nd Annual New Year’s Bluegrass Festival Some of bluegrass’s biggest names will attend the 32nd Annual january 5 New Year’s Bluegrass Festival on Jekyll Island including Rhonda saturday january 6 Vincent & the Rage, Marty Raybon, Bobby Osborne & The sunday Rocky Top X-Press, The Lewis Family, Cherry Holmes and many Wherefore R. Carlos Nakai & Udi Bar-David more. The three day live music fest kicks off on Thursday and goes Christian Indie-rockers Wherefore formed less than a year In this unique collaboration, RC Nakai, the world’s foremost Native through the weekend. Jekyll Island Convention Center, Info: www. ago and are already releasing their first record, The Journey. American flute player, and Israeli-born Udi Bar-David, cellist for the aandabluegrass.com or (706) 864-7203 Hear it performed live and snag yourself a copy this weekend Philadelphia Orchestra, explore their intercultural journey to cre- at their CD release show at the Murray Hill Theatre. The ate music together. Their recent recording, Voyagers, is a result of Sophomore Attempt, Matlock, The Namesake, and Parade the this collaboration. Admission: free. St. Paul’s By the Sea Episcopal City will also perform. Tickets: $10. Murray Hill Theatre- 8 Church, Jacksonville Beach- 3:30 pm, Info: (904) 249-4091 friday january 4 pm, Info: (904) 388-7807 World Famous Lipizzaner Nolan Neal JoEveritt Nashville singer/songwriter Nolan Neil proves that his Stallions JoEveritt, one of the hardest working little bands in Jacksonville and hometown isn’t just churning out country music. Creating Now on their 37th Anniversary tour, the winner of Battle for PlanetFest 2007, will be performing this Friday soulful alt-rock tunes, Neal breaks Tennessee stereotypes as World Famous Lipizzaner Stallions have at Jack Rabbits with Scenic Void and Time Cat. Jack Rabbits- 8 pm, he strives toward mega-stardom. Hear him perform live with all new music, choreography and rou- Info: (904) 398-7496 Society Red on Saturday. Ocean Club- 8 pm, Info: tines that are sure to delight the entire family. The unforgettable show focuses We Still Have (904) 242-8884 We Still Have Paris Paris on the historical background and foun- dation of the Lipizzaner breed, from its We Still Have Paris is a pop- General Tso’s Fury original breeding and use as a horse of punk/rock band from the Garden Ska is not dead, but if it is, don’t tell Fernandina war to a horse of nobility and aristoc- State featuring ex-members of To Beach boys General Tso’s Fury. The group, who racy to a living form of equestrian art. Kill The King. Taking influences proudly display their “Master of Skankology” Tickets: $22.50-$29.50. Jacksonville from, according to the band degree on their MySpace page, formed in 2006 Veterans Memorial Arena- 6 pm, Info: “everything that makes us and just released their first full-length in (904) 630-3900 happy (such as Applebees and December. See them rock mid-90s style this sunshine),” the four-piece just weekend with Ampleforth, Commonplace, and I released their new EP Shame Hope You’re A Doctor. Tickets: $10. Freebird Live- Kids Like Us Shame Shame last month. Check 8 pm, Info: (904) 246-BIRD Tallahassee has never been known for producing great hardcore them out this Friday with My Aim bands, but that’s all about to change. Kids Like Us are poised to is True and The Fall Affair. Fuel become the next big break-out hardcore band with their blend of Coffeehouse- 9 pm, Info: (904) january 5 - 6 punk, thrash, and influences. Their live show is not 425-FUEL to be missed with entire songs often becoming sing-a-longs for the crowd. See them with label mates Know the Score this Sunday. Fuel Jackie Mason: The Ultimate Jew Coffeehouse- 7 pm, Info: (904) 425-FUEL Brainworms No election year would be complete without the Richmond, Virginia has a irascible, irreplaceable and incomparable Jackie heck of a hardcore scene Mason, who brings his latest one-man comedy tour Human Factors Lab and Brainworms is one of the de force, Jackie Mason: The Ultimate Jew, to the Human Factors Lab began in the winter of 2003, hitting the South reasons why. The band brings Wilson Center this weekend. Mason has appeared Florida music scene and creating an intense following almost from their hairy hijinx to Café Eleven in a variety of films and television shows, most notably day one. In the summer of 2004 they released their first record, this Friday to kick off their seven-city Florida tour. Environmental “Caddyshack II,” but he’s best known as one of the greatest Plastik, and set out on an East Coast tour, building fans on a na- Youth Crunch, The Max Levine Ensemble, DoomHawk and Capsule stand-up comics of all time. Tickets: $37.50, Wilson Center for tional level. With their unique blend of electronic and organic instru- will also perform. Tickets: $5. Café Eleven- 8 pm, the Arts, FCCJ South Campus, Info: (904) 632-3373 mentation, Human Factors Lab creates their own brand of industrial Info: (904) 469-9311 rock. Tickets: $10. Jack Rabbits- 8 pm, Info: (904) 398-7496

4 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper monday january 7 Sleep Serapis Sleep/Don’t Kill the Messenger My momma always says nothing cures a case of the Mondays like a good metal show. Sleep Serapis Sleep and Don’t Kill the Messenger will be coming to The Pit this week for their only Florida stop this time out. The Pit- 8 pm, Info: (904) 223 9850

New Shanghai Circus

tuesday january 8 New Shanghai Circus featuring the Incredible Acrobats of China This talented troupe defies gravity and executes breathtaking feats that stretch the human ability. Many of these acts trace their origin back over two thousand years to traditional Chinese harvest festivals. If it’s humanly possible, and even if it’s not, Shanghai’s performers do it with spectacular flare, combining traditional, Chinese culture with modern day choreography, amazing lighting, enchanting scenery and powerful music. Tickets: $33.00. Wilson Center for the Arts, FCCJ South Campus- 7:30 pm, Info: (904) 632-3373 next thursday january 10

BLAST! BLAST!, winner of the 2001 Tony Award for “Best Special Theatrical Event” and the 2001 Emmy Award for “Best Choreography,” is comprised of 35 brass, percussion and visual performers brought together in a unique explosion of music and theatre. Born on athletic fields across the nation, BLAST! is a novel art form evolved from the showmanship of outdoor pageantry. Tickets: $33.50 to $80.50. Times-Union Center, Moran Theater- 7:30 pm, Info: (904) 632-3373

Gallows Gallows are the most exciting band to emerge from the UK punk/hardcore scene in years. Inspired by the early 80s hardcore scene (Minor Threat, Black Flag), 90s Swedish hardcore bands like Refused, the metal riffs of Mastodon and the discordance of key underground bands such as Swing Kids and JR Ewing, the band has been heralded as the return of . Tickets: $10/advance, $13/day of show. Jack Rabbits- 8 pm, Info: (904) 398-7496

Willie Nelson This versatile, eclectic, rather wanderlust country crossover star known for his classic ballads, autobiographical road songs and catchy rhythms went from door-to-door Bible salesman to legendary musician virtually overnight. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1993 and most recently nominated for a Grammy with Ray Price for the song ‘Lost Highway,’ Willie Nelson is America’s favorite country music icon. See him in the flesh next Thursday. Tickets: $53.50-$71. Florida Theatre- 8 pm, Info: (904) 355-2787

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 5 youthful minds like athletics honed bodies. He mentored these bright kids, making them believe MOVIES OPENING in themselves and the power of positive thinking. He chose four of the best debaters for his team, ONE MISSED CALL Eric Valette directs the Eng- including Frank Farmer, Jr as the group researcher lish-language remake of a Japanese supernatural and alternate. These gifted young people had al- horror hit. The story revolves around a college ready read the classics and were schooled in vari- student whose friends begin receiving cell phone ous philosophies. Because they were surrounded messages from the future in which they hear and protected by the intellectual elite of the black themselves being murdered. When she receives community, they thrived. Only when they ventured her own death message, the coed has three out into the nearby towns did they see and experi- days to change her fate. Starring: Edward Burns, ence the ugly plague of racism and violence. Shannyn Sossamon, Ana Claudia Talancón, Ray Pivotal to the debating team was its only fe- Wise. Rating: PG-13 male, Samantha, portrayed with the scene-stealing righteous indignation by beautiful Junee Smollett. MARGOT AT THE WEDDING Margot Zeller Her debates were delivered with emotional fervor (Academy Award® winner Nicole Kidman), a using her sharp intellect to drive home her resolve. savagely bright, razor-tongued short-story writer Again, viewers will marvel at the intelligence and who creates chaos wherever she lights, sets tenacity of this cadre of brainiacs, who went on to off on a surprise journey to the wedding of her greatness as adults. estranged and free-spirited, easy-going sister Their most important achievement was their Pauline (Golden Globe® nominee Jennifer Jason sense of history to dedicate themselves to work Leigh). Margot arrives -- her all-too-rapidly ma- toward change and ultimately the passage of turing son Claude (newcomer Zane Pais) in tow the Civil Right Bill in 1954. Granting civil rights -- with the gale force of a hurricane. From the to blacks by law was one thing, changing how minute she meets Pauline’s fiancé -- the unem- society treated African-Americans was another. ployed artist Malcolm (Jack Black) -- Margot Tolson’s greatest achievement was teaching his starts to plant seeds of doubt about the union. debate team the importance of non-violent philoso- As the wedding approaches, one complication phy and using American democracy to affect real crashes into the next – vengeful neighbors, a change by using the power of their educated minds beloved tree in the backyard, and Margot’s own as their only weapon. marital turmoil. The two sisters find themselves winners with words Everyone should see this film–young and old. at the precipice of an unexpected transformation It’s truly inspirational, educational, and simultane- ultimately revealing that even when your fam- ously entertaining. The Debating ily is about to implode… the one thing you can The Great Debaters Team’s accomplishments are a little known but an cling to for solace and comfort is your imploding important part of American history. Tolson’s debat- family. Starring: Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Jason ing team graduates went on to be influential in the Leigh, Jack Black, John Turturro. Rating: R by Rick grant [email protected] Civil Rights Movement and achieved fame as poets NOW SHOWING A Rated PG-13 124 min. which was the spark that ignited the nonviolent and writers. civil disobedience movement. The fact that gifted ALIENS VS. PREDATOR: REQUIEM This is a no- Considering the time period, 1935, this capti- black students could attend college at all during holds-barred monster mash that attempts to set vating film, based on the true story of Melvin Tol- that dark time was revolutionary. In fact, the cen- itself apart from the 2004 Paul W.S. Anderson son () is incredibly inspiring. It tral characters of the story witness a horrifying original by serving as a straight-up sci-fi horror chronicles the struggle of the small all-black Wiley , which one of the debaters later used in scare-fest. Starring: Reiko Aylesworth, Steven College’s debating team which went on to debate his debate to win his point. Pasquale, John Ortiz, Shareeka Epps. Rating: R Harvard and won the national title, ten years in a Produced by and skillfully row. For black college students to achieve such directed by Denzel Washington, who plays the lead ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS The live-action/ a prestigious intellectual accomplishment in the role of Mel Tolson, the story comes alive with a CGI motion picture event brings together the cel- racist milieu of a nation caught in the grips of the masterfully written script by Robert Eisele. Forest ebrated history of its beloved characters - Dave Great Depression is truly amazing. Whitaker portrays , a professor at Seville and singing chipmunks Alvin, Simon and In that tumultuous era, bread lines and mass Wiley College and the first black PhD in the nation. Theodore - adding a new comic sensibility and unemployment plagued the nation. The Wiley Col- The character’s son James Farmer, Jr. is Denzel edge. Starring: Jason Lee, David Cross, Cam- lege Debating Team’s achievement predates the Whitaker – a pivotal character in the story. eron Richardson, Justin Long. Rating: PG Civil Rights Movement by 20 years when, in 1955, Tolson believed in the absolute power of Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus, the mind. The art of debating sharpened these CHARLIE WILSON’S WAR Charlie Wilson (Tom Hanks) was a bachelor congressman from Texas had an extraordinary mind, a deep sense of patriotism and a passion for the underdog, and in the early 1980s the underdog was Af- ghanistan—which had just been brutally invaded by the Russians. Charlie’s longtime friend and patron and sometime lover was Joanne Herring (Julia Roberts) a virulent anti-communist. She prods Charlie into doing more for the Mujahideen (Afghan freedom fighters). Charlie’s partner in this uphill endeavor is CIA Agent Gust Avrakotos (Philip Seymour Hoffman), a blue-collar opera- 4

6 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper Mark and Juno hit it off and the relationship tive in a company of Ivy League blue bloods. between them fosters over Herschell Gordon Lewis Rating: R gore films and Japanese comics. Mark writes jingles for advertising agencies but secretly longs for his THE GREAT DEBATERS Drawing inspiration from old life in a traveling rock band. Vanessa and Juno the true story of a temperamental debate coach also develop a friendship, but it happens at an oddly who molded the students of a small East Texas different pace. Director Jason Reitman proves to college into a formidable team against Harvard’s be just as adept behind a camera as his father Ivan squad in the 1930s. Denzel Washington’s The Reitman was, with impeccable comedic timing, per- Great Debaters features the director himself as fect companion music, and an exquisitely paced and the ambitious educator, and as delivered story with the right mix of charm and wit. the resentful father of a student whose loyalties now lie almost exclusively with his coach. Star- ring: Denzel Washington, Forest Whitaker, , Denzel Whitaker. Rating: PG-13

THE GOLDEN COMPASS This is an exciting fantasy adventure, set in an alternative world where people’s souls manifest themselves as animals, talking bears fight wars, and Gyptians and witches co-exist. At the center of the story is Lyra (played by newcomer Dakota Blue Rich- ards), a 12-year-old girl who starts out trying to rescue a friend who’s been kidnapped by a mys- terious organization known as the Gobblers - and winds up on an epic quest to save not only her world, but ours as well. ‘The Golden Compass’ stars an ensemble cast that includes Nicole Kid- man, Daniel Craig, Sam Elliott, and Ian McShane. Rating: PG-13 the sleeper hit of 2007 I AM LEGEND Robert Neville (Will Smith) is a brilliant scientist, but even he could not contain the terrible virus that was unstoppable, incur- Diablo Cody rises to fame with Juno able, and man-made. Somehow immune, Neville is now the last human survivor in what is left of New York City and maybe the world. But by jon bosworth [email protected] he is not alone. Mutant victims of the plague lurk in the shadows…watching Neville’s every move…waiting for him to make a fatal mistake. A Rated PG13 92 min. “That ain’t no Etch-A-Sketch. This is one doo- But he knows he is outnumbered…and quickly dle that can’t be undid, home skillet,” said Wilson in running out of time. Starring: Will Smith, Alice The best movie of 2007 snuck out at the last his brief opening scene cameo. Braga, Charlie Tahan, Salli Richardson-Whitfield. minute to little fanfare. Little fanfare in Jacksonville, Penned by Hollywood’s new middle-American Rating: PG-13. that is. I happened to be in Austin, Texas over the buzz angel, Diablo Cody, this clever and hilarious film The brilliance of the direction is largely made holiday and Juno was one of the most celebrated deals with a hard subject in all the right ways. Juno JUNO When a teenage girl is faced with an possible by the brilliance of the script. From the witty films on screen in town. It was on the cover of mag- gets scared away from the “Women Now” abortion unexpected pregnancy, she enlists the aid of her dialogue that newcomer Ellen Page delivers with a azines and morning news programs were lauding it. clinic because it smells like a dentists’ office and best friend in finding the unborn child a suitable natural fervor as the teenage Juno to the age-appro- Morning news programs don’t often laud films about decides to have the baby and give it up for adoption. home in this coming-of-age comedy. Juno (El- priate, although still surprising, wit that comes from teenage pregnancy, but this is one of those films She looks for the adoptive parents in the local Pen- len Page) may seem wise beyond her years, but Juno’s step-mother (Allison Janney) and the other that deals with this reality head-on. That isn’t what nysaver and finds Mark and Vanessa Loring (Michael after sleeping with classmate Bleeker (Michael characters in the story. After seeing this film you makes the film great, the greatness comes from the Bateman and Jennifer Garner), a loving couple that is Cera), the pregnant teen quickly realizes how will want to start using the term “wizard” instead of sincere and realistic humor it draws from an other- desperate for a child. little she really knows about life. Juno’s parents “cool.” That is how good the writing is. wise unfortunate and harrowing circumstance. At first glance Mark and Vanessa Loring strike (J.K. Simmons and Allison Janney) and a best Writer Diablo Cody grew up in a middle-Ameri- Juno MacGuff is a sixteen-year old smart ass Juno as the cheesiest yuppie family on earth, but friend named Leah (Olivia Thirlby) are willing can family, went to college and worked a fairly nor- that goes to high school in the Midwest. She blames she soon discovers that Mark Loring is a musician, to help out. Juno comes into contact with Mark mal job at an advertising agency when she got bored a discarded furniture set for the fact that she and her like Juno. Mark is more into the mid-nineties rock, (Jason Bateman) and Vanessa (Jennifer Garner) and decided to become a stripper at some of the boyfriend, Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera), decided to whereas Juno is a lover of mid seventies punk. The -- an affluent suburban couple who are eager to surliest strip clubs in Minnesota. That’s also when “do it.” The opening credits to the film follow Juno Lorings are anxious but trepiditious, as they have ar- adopt Juno’s unborn child. Rated PG-13 to the convenience store as she drinks a gallon of ranged for adoption before and had that parent back she changed her name. Cody started a blog telling the tales of her adventures in the strip clubs. She still Sunny-D to prep for her third pregnancy test. As she out at the last minute. NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS In posts to her blog at diablocody.blogspot.com, so awaits the result before the convenience store clerk “If I could squeeze the kid out right now and this adventure-filled sequel to the 2004 block- you can catch up with not only her archived blogs, (Rainn Wilson) she tries to shake the “unholy” pink give it to you, I would, but I think we ought to let it buster National Treasure, Nicolas Cage reprises which first garnered her fame for her candor and plus sign away. get just a little cuter,” Juno tells the Lorings. his role as artifact hunter and archaeologist cadence (and won her a book deal), but what is go- extraordinaire Ben Franklin Gates. In this outing, ing on with her now as she rises to fame while Juno Gates learns of his own family’s implication in gets praise from Golden Globes and film festivals the assassination of Abraham Lincoln by John across the country. Wilkes Booth. Gates must then locate the 18 See this film when you first have the chance, missing pages to Booth’s diary, not only to clear there probably won’t be a better one in all of 2008. his family’s name, but to unearth and connect Although it does have a heartwarming message several secrets, buried within the book, that point at the end, which can often kill a brilliant comedy, to a massive, global conspiracy. The film co- you will be pleased with every scene in execution stars Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, and Helen Mirren and outcome. If you can’t get enough Wes Ander- as Ben’s mother. Jerry Bruckheimer returns as son, you will adore Juno. It is sharp, smart, and producer. Starring: Nicolas Cage, Justin Bartha, still somehow pulls off morality even better than Diane Kruger, Jon Voight. Rating: PG Napoleon Dynamite. People are saying it is this year’s Little Miss Sunshine, but this film outweighs NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN The story begins Sunshine in a big way. Little Miss Sunshine was last year’s Juno. 4

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 7 cage is back stealing history again National Treasure: Book of Secrets

by Rick grant [email protected]

C+ 124 min. Rated PG

Far fetched with a shameless commercial slant, this big budget franchise movie was written by committee and directed by Jon Turteltaub. The paint-by-numbers filmmaking is designed to follow a prescribed path with the obilgatory car chase scene in London, which is preposterous considering the traffic and narrow roads in that city. Call it Bing, Bang, Boom in-your-face schlock, carefully flavored for mass consumption. It’s pure escapism. Nicolas Cage reprises his character Ben Gates, who is trying to discover the truth about the assas- sination of Abraham Lincoln, using the previously missing 18 pages from John Wilkes Booth’s diary. Gates’ sidekick, Riley Poole, played with comedic sales so far. For many viewers, movies like this are style by Justin Bartha, is welcome comic relief. Na- guilty pleasures. How many times have I stayed up tional Archives conservator Abigail Chase is played late watching Die Hard films? Too many to admit. by Diane Kruger and Patrick Gates is portrayed The script is surprisingly wordy, considering by Jon Voight. Helen Mirren slums in this film as it’s a big loud action film. But when the action kicks Patrick’s ex-wife, an expert on the rarest ancient in, it’s overpowering. Still, everyone loves a treasure languages. This comes in handy during the hunt. Ed hunt, and this brainiac crew of eccentric characters Harris plays Jeb Wilkinson–an interloper and rival in takes the audience on a fascinating adventure to the adventure. Harvey Keitel turns up in the film as find the President’s Book of Secrets, which has the FBI Agent Sandusky. answers to many questions. The story implies that Ben Gates’ great-great Ben is on a mission to clear his family name grandfather is implicated as a key conspirator in but he has to talk to the President of The United Lincoln’s assassination. Ben loves the hunt, but in States to find out if the book exists. So, he kidnaps this case he is determined to prove his ancestor’s the President. Ben becomes a wanted man with the innocence. Ben’s team embarks on an international CIA, NSA, and other government agencies on his adventure to follow clues to find the truth, taking tail. Nicolas Cage revels in these characters with them to Paris to London and back to America. In the his tongue-in-cheek acting and suave persona. His ensuing investigation, the team finds some surpris- stylized delivery masks his cynical attitude at taking ing revelations that rewrite American history. these roles for the fat paycheck. Still, like Bruce Wil- Turteltaub likes to use handheld close-up ac- lis, audiences love Cage’s larger than life characters. tion shots, which tend to blur the context of the From Disney Pictures, with Jerry Bruckheimer co- scene. However, the film has all the elements of a producing along with producer/director Jon Turtel- holiday blockbuster, which will be welcomed by the taub, the team shot as close to a guaranteed hit as exhibitors who have seen disappointing box office any picture released in today’s fickle market.

8 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper family bickering on the big screen Margot at the Wedding by Rick grant [email protected] B- Rated R 91 min for being there, especially Pauline, who finds out Writer/director Noah Baumbach created this that Malcolm had an affair with a neighbor’s 19- screenplay as a dark satire of self-absorbed pseu- year old daughter. do-intellectuals that spend their time whining about Baumbach’s idea, which was to combine trivial concerns and psychoanalyzing each other. these characters into a gumbo of emotional tur- The problem with Baumbach’s well-written script moil, was interesting but it reeks of pretension and is its characters. They are hard to care about, even manipulation. Cinematographer Anne Ross was though the stellar acting is first rate. Thank the going for a noirish dark look in many of her shots, movie gods that Jack Black brought some humor which, to the viewer, looks like black screen with to this downer story. voices. It’s one thing to use dark shadows but Single mom Margot (Nicole Kidman) and her quite another to have no light whatsoever. son Claude (Zane Paris) decide to visit her sister Nicole Kidman portrays her neurosis con- Pauline (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who is getting vincingly well as Margot, the nasty bitch. Jennifer married to Malcolm (Jack Black). Previously, the Jason Leigh effectively made Pauline a mass of sisters were estranged, but Margot has an ulterior psychological problems and self doubt. These she- motive for making the trip. She wants to revive an devils will never be happy especially being together old love affair with one of Pauline’s neighbors. for any length of time. The hellish siblings bring Indeed, Margot is a troublemaker who criti- out the worst in each other. cizes Pauline’s choice of a husband as not being Clearly, Baumbach was satirizing these snitty good enough for her. The sisters are continually New York intellectual types with a dark overview. bickering, which waxes tedious right away. Margot Only Jack Black found the comedy in this cauldron dotes on her 13-year old son, Claude (the quintes- of witches brew. He plays Malcolm tongue-in- sential mommas-boy who hides behind his mom’s cheek, and consequently, gives the story some skirt). Malcolm is an unemployed writer– rough redeeming value. His tearful confession of infidelity around the edges and says what he thinks. Pauline is hilarious while he’s holding a chain saw. and Malcolm have a healthy sex life but seem to No viewer would want to be around these have little else in common. Pauline has a sweet bitchy sisters, especially after spending their daughter Ingrid who likes Margot’s son Claude, but holidays with equally bitchy family in their own he finds her annoying and stupid. homes. Being trapped in that house with Pauline Putting these volatile personalities in one and Margot would be torture. In some ways, it’s house for a weekend marriage in Pauline’s back- fascinating to watch this dysfunctional family dig yard was bound to stir-up a hornet’s nest of bad themselves into a deep hole, from which they feelings and arguments. The sisters incessantly seem to thrive, wallowing in their depression and whine and complain about their lives and the misery. The movie trailer implies this is a light- mistakes they made. Malcolm can’t stand Margot, hearted comedy. Don’t be fooled, its comedy is so who gives him dirty looks. This underlying tension dark, it’s not funny at all. You will sigh with relief causes the characters to self-analyze their reasons when it’s over.

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 9 when Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) finds a pickup truck surrounded by a sentry of dead men. A load of heroin and two million dollars in cash are still in the back. When Moss takes the money, he sets off a chain reaction of catastrophic violence that not even the law - in the person of aging, disillusioned Sheriff Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) - can contain. As Moss tries to evade his pursuers - in particular a mysterious mastermind who flips coins for human lives (Javier Bardem) . Rating: R

P.S. I LOVE YOU Holly Kennedy (Hilary Swank) is 29, beautiful, smart, and married to the love of her life—a passionate, funny and impetuous Irishman na. But then Gerry’s life is taken by an illness that also seems to take the life out of Holly. Good thing he planned ahead. The first message arrives on Holly’s 30th birthday in the form of a cake and, to her utter shock, a tape recording from Gerry, who proceeds to order her to get out and “celebrate depths of imagination herself.” In the weeks and months that follow, more letters from Gerry are delivered, each sending her on a new adventure and signing in the same way: P.S. I Love You. Starring: Hilary Swank, Gerard The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep Butler, Lisa Kudrow, Gina Gershon. Rating: PG-13. by Rick grant [email protected] SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET Tim Burton directs starring Johnny Depp, B Rated PG 112 min. growing by leaps and bounds. Helena Bonham Carter, Sacha Baron Cohen, Timo- One day, a British artillery detachment arrives thy Spall, and Alan Rickman. Embittered at having Set in Loch Ness, Scotland during WWII, Alex at the MacMorrow’s estate to set up an artillery been wrongly imprisoned and determined to seek Etel portrays Angus MacMorrow, a boy who is deal- battery on a high point near the shore to defend the vengeance against his accusers due to the grim ing with the death of his father. To Angus, his dad area against German submarines. Captain Hamilton fate that befell his wife and daughter while he was was his best friend and he refuses to believe that he (David Morrissey) is in charge. This puts more pres- incarcerated, ex-convict Sweeny Todd (Depp) re- is not coming back from the war. Angus copes with sure on Angus to hide that darn creature, now as big turns to his hometown and opens a modest barber his anxiety by setting up his own war room inside as a Buick and still growing. The only solution is to shop. The one thing different about Todd’s shop, a work shed with maps and pictures of his dad. He release the now beastly creature into the Loch. But, however, is that no one who walks in for a trim is tracks his dad’s ship’s movements and dreams of Angus, who is the beast’s only parent, is worried ever seen again. Rating: R his return. The story is about how Angus is psy- he will never see his fun-loving monster again. That chologically ill-equipped to deal with the crushing worry is moot when the friendly beast, now a full WALK HARD: THE DEWEY COX STORY America grief and how he suppresses it into an imaginative gown dinosaur, takes Angus on the ride of his life, loves Cox! But behind the music is the up-and- discovery. crossing the Loch and under the water. down-and-up-again story of a musician whose While scavenging for rocks at the Loch’s This film is somewhat predictable with a script songs would change a nation. Dewey chases shore, Angus finds a mysterious egg and takes it that goes for the sentimental jugular. The story un- women, uses drugs and hangs out with rock’s back to his dad’s work shed. Reality and imagination folds with a stellar cast and high quality production top musicians. Cox grows into a national icon cross paths in Angus’ mind when the egg hatches values. Of course, the monster is the real star of and eventually earns the love of a good woman and a strange amphibian creature is born. The the film, from his funny antics as a baby to his fear- -- longtime backup singer Darlene (Jenna Fischer). mythical dinosaur-like creature that will one day fuel some abilities as an adult Plesiosaur. As a baby, he Starring: John C. Reilly, Jenna Fischer, Raymond J. the legend of Nessie, the Loch Ness monster. Nessie makes human-like sounds and is as precocious as Barry, Kristen Wiig. Rating: R. is so realistic, thanks to the seamless CGI, it domi- a two year old baby. As with all pets and children, nates the film as the central comedic character. the creature gave Angus a serious responsibility to THE WATER HORSE: LEGEND OF THE DEEP A Told through the eyes of Angus’ imagination, care for the animal and make sure he’s safe from the lonely young boy vows to protect the rapidly grow- Robert Nelson Jacobs’ screenplay adapted from soldiers, who would have probably killed and then ing hatchling that emerges from a mysterious egg Dick King-Smith’s book, delightfully chronicled ate it. found on the shores of a Scottish lochl. Angus Angus’ bold new adventure of discovery–raising The monster is endearing and actor Alex Etel MacMorrow (Alex Etel) is unable to identify the egg and harboring a forbidden animal that completely as Angus portrayed a heartwarming character who that he found and is perplexed about the creature occupies his mind. Above all, Angus must make captures the viewers’ imagination with his sweet- that emerges which resembles what comes to be sure his Mom, Anne MacMorrow (Emily Watson) ness and innocence. By raising and caring about the known as a Water Horse. Starring: Emily Watson, doesn’t find out about the creature. When Anne hires monster, Angus matured. As with the real legend of Alex Etel, David Morrissey, Ben Chaplin. Rated PG. a handyman, Lewis Mowbray (Ben Chaplin), Angus Loch Ness, this story lets the viewer decide if the finds a friend to help him hide the creature, which is tale is fact or fable. To me, it’s real. SPECIAL SHOWINGS

Mid-night Movie The Jacksonville Rollergirls are hosting the East Coast theatrical premiere of HELL ON WHEELS. Hell on Wheels is the birth of the rollergirl revolu- tion, chronicling the creation of the first modern- era rollergirl league Bad Girl, Good Woman Produc- tions (BGGW, later renamed as Texas Roller Derby / Lonestar Rollergirls) and the breakaway league the Texas Rollergirls. Filmed from the trenches, this documentary delivers the struggles and eventual success of the rollergirls as they construct a new sport and set forth to conquer the globe. San Marco Theatre on Friday, January 4 and Saturday, January 5, each night at 11:55pm. Info: (904) 396-4845

10 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 11 the reality tv take over mid-season tv by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] When the writers went on strike, TV fans knew we were headed for a cold, lonely winter. Those days, sadly, are here. Having run out of most of their scripts, the networks are headed into what I like to call a code red. They need programming and they need it stat. With all the writers looking to get paid instead of sitting com- placently at their computers, happy with their tiny residuals like good little sweatshop workers (can you tell I’m all for the WGA here?), the Big Three and the netlets are turning to reality TV to save them until the strike is over. So what can you expect to see (or, more likely, turn off) come January? ABC The Alphabet Net kills when it comes to script- edy Eight Days a Week which looks like it could be ed entertainment so it’s sad to see fan favorites like pretty good if it ever sees the light of day. Grey’s Anatomy, Pushing Daisies and Desperate Housewives get shelved right in the middle of their Fox seasons. Thankfully someone over at ABC had the Fox is about to rule in the ratings in the next good sense to save their biggest hit for mid-season. few weeks thanks to the triumphant return of Ameri- According to Jim returns on January 1st but the big can Idol (January 15), but that doesn’t mean they’re news is Lost is coming back on January 31st with slacking with their mid-season schedule. Out of all of seven brand new episodes. Hallelujah! Two new the networks, this one seems to be the most promis- shows will premiere in January as well, making the ing which, considering who we’re talking about here, reality TV list coming up a little easier to swallow is downright shocking. Lots of new scripted shows (but not by much). The much buzzed about Cash- will be premiering beginning with the surprisingly fun mere Mafia, starring Lucy Liu, Frances O’Connor, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles on Janu- Miranda Otto and Bonnie Sommerville, arrives on ary 13th. February 22nd brings New Amsterdam, an January 3rd, while the legal drama Eli Stone starring intriguing series about an immortal NYC homicide Jonny Lee Miller debuts on January 31st. detective. Parker Posey stars in The Return of Jeze- Reality TV gets integrated into the schedule bel James and the Farrelly Brothers try their hands immediately. January 1st brings Just for Laughs, a at the sitcom with Unhitched. Both shows will air in hidden-camera show, and the second brings back March. Finally, the highly anticipated (and this time Wife Swap and Supernanny. Dipping into the Danc- the buzz is actually legitimate- the show is excellent) ing with the Stars well comes a spin-off, Dance War: legal drama Canterbury’s Law will take the stand on Bruno vs. Carrie Ann, on January 7th. Oprah will be April 11th. giving away stuff beginning on March 7th with her Idol is the big one for Fox, but other reality new show cleverly titled Oprah’s Big Give. Finally, shows will begin their seasons as well. Game show both Dancing with the Stars and The Bachelor will The Moment of Truth will air on January 23rd and a come back on March 17th. Survivor-type series When Women Rule the World will begin on March 3rd. Finally, Chef Ramsey will be CBS cooking up trouble in Hell’s Kitchen beginning April Unlike most of the networks, CBS will rely 1st. heavily on reruns for most of the mid-season months. Still, there will be some new programming NBC sprinkled throughout. New Adventures of Old Chris- We’ve saved the worst possible line-up for last. tine comes back on January 28th and brings with it The Peacock almost redeemed itself in the eyes of promising new comedy The Captain starring Jeffrey the world with shows like Heroes and The Office but Tambor. The miraculously resurrected Jericho, saved the reality sludge they’ve scraped off of the bottom by fans at the 11th hour over the summer, will begin of the barrel for the coming months is sure to ruin its abbreviated 7 episode season on February 12th. much of the network’s recently earned credibility. Reality shows making it into the mix include We’ll start with the bad news first so this rundown games show Power of 10 (January 2) and old stand- ends on a somewhat high note. Goofy music-related bys Survivor (February 7) and Big Brother (February shows Clash of the Choirs and The Singing Bee kick 12). Yet another game show, Do You Trust Me, is off mid-season in mid-December. The Biggest Loser also in production but a firm release date has yet to then returns on January 1st. Things begin to go down be announced. hill on January 3rd when Donald Trump’s pathetic ex- cuse for a comeback, Celebrity Apprentice, begins. The CW The moderately entertaining 1 vs. 100 starts back There are still a lot of question marks over what up on January 4th but then everything goes to hell in the C-Dub is going to do during the strike. We know a hand basket on January 6th when American Gladi- that One Tree Hill is coming back on January 8th with ators returns to the airwaves after over 10 blissful nearly a complete season ready to air (the show was years without it. Then on February 18th, NBC gives a granted a reprieve from cancellation but was only bunch of teen couples babies in the lawsuit-waiting- given a 13 episode season) and the beauty pageant to-happen series The Baby Borrowers. reality series Crowned has already begun stinking The good news is the always great Law & Or- up the airwaves. What else do they have planned? der will return on January 2nd and Medium will come Well, nothing’s been officially confirmed but its been back on January 7th. Law & Order: Criminal Intent, speculated that Beauty and the Geek and a new which already aired its season on USA earlier this installment of “talent” search will year, will premiere those episodes beginning January come back and that a fascinating new dating show 9th. Last and certainly not least is Lipstick Jungle, called Farmer Wants a Wife (no, I’m not kidding) will an excellent new series starring Brooke Shields. The also make an appearance at some point. The only show is almost good enough to redeem the network other show that could possibly show up in the next from bringing American Gladiators back. I said al- couple of months is the Sean Hayes-produced com- most.

12 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper netscapades by brenton crozier videogames a new year, a new start edition looking forward: videogames in 2008 With the calendar click to 2008, so many of us think of a new start, a lot of changes and the resolu- tions that we will surely make and then watch dissolve by Valentine’s Day. The idea of a clean slate and new lease on life is a promising, but often hollow one. So what is it, other than our self-reliance, convic- by Norm stovall [email protected] tion, higher power, friends or family, that we should turn to? You got it, the Internet. I can hardly believe that so many generations found self worth and the willingness to better themselves without the World Since the New Year is here, I thought now would be a good time to go over the upcoming greatness expected Wide Web. to hit in the year 2008. With the abundance of delays in high profile titles and way-too-early previews we have I decided to make this a true online experiment without having picked sites to write about ahead of gotten this year, 2008 is looking like the best year videogames will ever have. With the PS3 finally gaining time. We will let the search engines do the work of the divine and point us in the right direction. Among some support from the gaming community and developers alike, the absurdly massive sales numbers of Wii these heavenly search portals, no deity reigns more supreme than Google. Let’s do some good, let’s consoles, and the Xbox 360’s already substantial user base, developers have everything to gain with produc- change some lives. ing high-profile titles and working on every platform simultaneously. So, without any further hoo-haw, these are a few games that I am looking forward to: search “a new start”

The first website that came up was indeed www.anewstartonlife.com. ANSOL is a benevolent orga- Burnout Paradise (due january 2008) nization in Michigan that finds homes for dogs that need them. You can adopt or donate and even learn For PS3 and Xbox 360 about the disconcerting practices of puppy mills. Not exactly the type of thing that is ripe for parody or gives you that surge to change, but is important work and may even give you that new altruistic mission This release is right around the corner, and the demos are currently available for download online for the you have been looking for. Homeless dogs need love too. Playstation 3 and the Xbox 360 game consoles. From what the demo reveals, Burnout Paradise will provide In the type of vast shift that can only take place on the Internet, the next site down in this search a seamless online and offline play style that takes inspiration from Infogrames’ Test Drive Unlimited, and query, http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2000/ast01dec_1.htm, discusses NASA’s International Space expands upon it tenfold. With its over-the-top gameplay that encourages reckless driving, large crashes and Station. It is said that you can see it from Earth because it reflects sunlight. What is more compelling than insane stunts, the demo for Burnout Paradise is insanely fun to play. A novel thing about this demo is that there are pretty much no menu screens outside of the normal gameplay mode, which means you start the an advance in technology reaching to the cosmos? Feeling bummed about debt, your old lady leaving you game, and go from event to event by driving to and from different locations on your map. You can invite or that gut that came out of nowhere over the last 8 years? Pull up a chair, relax and peer into the night friends to your game on the fly by pressing a shoulder button on your controller and clicking on their name in or early morning sky and give a wave to the station. It may not pay it off, bring her back or make it return your friends list, all while still in game mode, while driving around the fictional Paradise City. One note, how- to slim status, but it may make your problems feel small and more manageable, if only for a moment, but ever, if you are playing the Xbox 360 version, there are some minor hiccups in this feature, as accessing your we all need those moments. The site helps you track the ISS and gives information on the best times to friends list occasionally makes the menu blades pop up, and the frame rate seems to drop in this version as look for it. well. Nonetheless, both games make great use of each console’s peripherals, such as USB cameras to take Other types of sites that appeared were the New Start Lifestyle Program about reversing diabetes photos of you for your driver’s license, and to take photos of your rivals right at the moment when you cut and heart disease, a site called Working Wardrobes that gives a new start to survivors of domestic vio- them off and send them careening off the road and into a gas pump. The action is fast and flowing, and the lence and The News Star–North Louisiana’s Top News Source. Whether you’re fighting a harsh ailment, game couldn’t be more fun to play. With the large open-ended environments the demo has to offer, I’m pretty looking for charitable work to participate in or want to know everything going on in Northern Louisiana, anxious to see the finished title. If you have both the PS3 and the Xbox 360 consoles currently, it looks like the PS3 version is the one to get, but the Xbox 360 version is really fantastic in it’s own right. you can start by searching “A new start.” search “life changing resolutions” Street Fighter IV (due june 16th, 2008) For Undisclosed Next-Gen Consoles The top listing for this query is targeted at foster parents—http://fosterparenting.suite101.com/ar- ticle.cfm/new_year_resolutions. Now that is truly the Lord’s work. Interested in this much life changing? The announcement of Street Fighter IV going into development and its subsequent trailer was enough to If you’re not equipped to properly administer love and care for a child at this juncture, you could start make my pea-sized brain to explode, but somehow it didn’t. So, in light of my brain not exploding, I’m going with a dog and work your way up. My family once had foster children, but unfortunately to the detriment to write to tell you about the experience. So far it has been revealed that the game will be released on cur- of my back, the young boy was a biter, but don’t let that sour you. What follows is a series of tips for not rent-gen consoles, but there is no specification on WHICH current-gen consoles. Earlier last week, exclusive info on the game leaked onto the web, and since then, EGM posted a large cover story in their print magazine only setting, but keeping life changing resolutions—http://www.enotalone.com/article/2904.html. illustrating the details of the game as they have developed so far. The setting of the game seems to take place For the most part, they are the same platitudes that get thrown around at political debates and sometime between street fighter 2 and street fighter 3, so hopefully there will be all the excitement from both Hallmark stores on a regular basis, but you may find that one thing that lights your fire. In particular, I like worlds. Illustrated in the EGM write up is the addition of Ultra moves, which are a type of desperation attack, http://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Life-Changing-Resolution. This is the anti-list that instructs you to be along with EX moves similar to those found in Street Fighter 3, and Unblockable attacks. The visual style non-committal, unrealistic, selfish and to steal resources because “Why recreate the wheel?” will feature characters fully rendered in 3D, but gameplay that will stay exclusively 2D in movement, just like The New Year can either signify a major chance to make anew or simply be relative in the scheme nearly every other Street Fighter game. With a fully staffed team working on the game, it seems that Capcom of life, but it never hurts to try something new, look at something differently or take on a new challenge— of Japan is ready to bring the fighting game genre back into the limelight in a very big way. and the web may just be that place to find out what that’s going to be, but probably not. Happy New Year. Super Smash Bros. Brawl (due early 2008) For Nintendo Wii

Unbeknownst to most fighting game fans, Smash Bros. is probably the most competition-heavy fighter in the country. While the gameplay mechanics of the series seems a bit simplistic, the technique and style that each player brings is really something of a sight to behold. All the games in the series so far have been terrifically simple and fun to pick up and play, but the underlying complexities are nothing short of amazing, turning a simple game of king of the hill to a long-winded battle of wits, reflexes and survival. Originally, Super Smash Bros. Brawl was slated for release last month. Unfortunately, continued delays have pushed this title further and further back, and still there is no definite release date. However, details about the game still trickle out from time to time, and what info we do have is great. Basically, every worthwhile character in the Mario/Nin- tendo universe will be present in the game, along with key 3rd party characters you can pick to duke it out, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Solid Snake from the Metal Gear series, and more. In addition to these char- acters, new control schemes have been introduced to take advantage of the Wii remote, though the hardcore will be able to stick to using their GameCube controllers, which is a good thing. Not to worry, I’ll have a full review available just as soon as I can get this game into my hands.

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 13 dish. where to eat, drink and be merry.

not just for pizza Tommy’s Pizza

by Erin thursby [email protected]

Zaitoon’s Paella You might think of New York style pizza as the limp, foldable slices you can find on the street corners (and often in malls). Tommy’s Brick Oven Pizza begs to differ with that assumption, offering a golden crust with a thin, crisp bottom that will hold many toppings. The pizza is a little too crisp to fold, but the dough and the execution is top quality. In a brick oven, the hot bricks draw out the moisture from the crust. This ensures a crispy outside, but the bread doesn’t dry out on the inside. Tommy’s slices have just the right amount of char on the outside, a page 14 - 15 tommy’s pizza | page 15 ingredient secrets light bitterness to contrast with the rich mozzarella and tomato sauce. You’re bound to be pleased with any pie they serve up at Tommy’s. page 15 budweiser brewery tours | page 16 safe harbor But pizza is just the beginning at Tommy’s. They serve an Eggplant Rollotini that’s a dream, probably because Tommy is very choosy about his produce. Entrées with eggplant often disappoint me because many chefs choose older and seedier eggplants rather than young and tender ones. Tommy chooses his carefully, thinly slicing them, rolling them up in a blended cheese filling with just a light coating of breading, topped with Tommy’s freshly made marinara. dish update Their lasagnettes are also worth coming back for. Fresh pasta makes a real difference in the flavor and texture of their lasagnettes. The meat lasagnette has ten layers of savory Italian goodness. Their freshly made While they’ll still be offering their great selection of wines and yummy sak-tails (sake tomato sauce accents the meat, but doesn’t overpower it, because each layer is carefully laid down individu- ally. The meat is a refreshing blend of Italian sausage and ground beef, with herbed ricotta inside. It’s topped based “cocktails”) Blue Bamboo now has a full liquor license! with mozzarella and Tommy’s own marinara. If you’re more into the veggie side of things, you can try their Ponte Vedra Beach now features a “taste of the Caribbean” with the new Pusser’s vegetable lasagnette, layered with thin slices of zucchini, tomato and spinach, stuffed with a blend of mostly Caribbean Grille restaurant, which opened for business in The Shoppes of Veranda shopping center on A1A North just south of the Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa. Pusser’s opens at 11:30 am for lunch and closes at 10 pm Sunday through Thursday – serving food until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays – with extended bar hours until 1 am. The restaurant’s first floor is open this month. When the restaurant’s “Upper Deck” is completed in January, it plans to introduce a “Caribbean Call” Cocktail Hour at 5 pm featuring live entertainment Wednesday and on weekends. The cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, Pusser’s Island Grill menu and regional entrée favorites. Chef Delay is says he is excited to present Caribbean cuisine in “a colorful way,” with unique menu items such as Red Snapper Ponte Vedra, Barbeque Salmon Tower, Chesapeake Crab Cakes, Down Island Baby Back Ribs, and Trinidad Smoked Duck. For more info, or to make reservations, call 904-280-7766 or visit www.pussersusa. com. Zaitoon will be open for New Year’s Eve but closed for New Year’s Day. Remember, if you’ve got any dish on Jacksonville food and drink, do send us an email at [email protected].

14 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper mozzarella and a little ricotta. There’s nothing quite like Italian sausage, and you’ll get your fill of it if you order their sausage and pep- pers dish. The fennel in it was a bit strong for me, but this stuff’s the real deal—and you can taste it. You might not expect steak in a pizzeria, but Tommy’s has a decent rib-eye at a reasonable price, just ingredient secrets $15.99. It’s not 8-ounces, as the menu claims, but a whopping 10-ounces, because Tommy changed beef providers after the menu was printed. The brick-oven grilled steak is topped with stewed tomatoes (a favorite of mine), sweet peppers, onions and garlic. The roasted potatoes on the side were a delight, their natural sweetness brought out by the roasting for an incredible flavor. It’s a simple preparation of olive oil, fresh rose- eggplants mary and a barely discernable lemon flavor that once again brought my attention to Tommy’s use of excellent ingredients. If you’re thinking of cooking up an eggplant dish at home, you’ll want to be as choosy as Tommy is about his selection. Eggplants are a member of the nightshade family, along with tomatoes and potatoes. There are many varieties of eggplant, which can be anything from white or yellow to different variations of purple. If you’re purchasing the most com- monly available variety, you’ll want to look for an eggplant that’s still a glossy purple. Once it gets dull, the eggplant is overripe. Smaller eggplants are mostly a better choice than larger ones. When you pick it up, it should be dense with a firm, smooth skin, free of discoloration. If your eggplant isn’t very heavy for its size, you’ll want to give it a knock test. A hollow sound means it’s dried out. They should be firm with a little give and bounce when you apply light pressure. A mushy eggplant is an overripe eggplant. You’ll also want to avoid those that were picked early—they’ll have no give. First though, you’ll want to choose a “male” eggplant. Eggplants are, like tomatoes, technically fruits. They can’t actually be male or female; however, if you check the bottom of an eggplant, you’ll see a dimple. If it’s deep and dash shaped, it’s considered female. If it’s round and shallow, it’s considered male. The male eggplant has less seeds and is less bitter than the female. (Basically, the “innie” is fe- male, the “outie” is male.) A highly perishable produce, eggplants quickly become bitter with age. They should be used within one to three days (max) after purchase. If you aren’t cooking your eggplant the same day you purchase it, store it in the fridge. Bread lovers shouldn’t miss their ciabatta bread in the appetizer section. Also in the appetizer section, Don’t cut the eggplant until just before using in a recipe, and make sure you peel older eggplants. I’ve heard that the strawberry and tomato salsa foccacia has a tantalizing blend of flavors worthy of a gour- It’s not absolutely necessary, but baby eggplants have a more palatable skin. met restaurant. Their antipasto plate is piled with all sorts of goodies; it’s the real thing, not just a handful of stale mozzarella, few slices of salami and a couple of olives piled atop some iceberg nightmare as you’ll find in many places. Not at Tommy’s. Instead you’ll find prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, hot capicola ham, provo- lone, real mozzarella, chevre, mushrooms, roasted peppers, olives, sundried tomatoes and artichokes, placed on a bed of baby salad greens and dressed with extra virgin olive oil. Fresh ingredients and an attention to detail have given Tommy’s a great name in the community, even free beer! though they are just a year old. They’ve garnered devoted regulars in the short time they’ve been in business. While I was there, I met a couple who had come all the way from Green Cove Springs just for a slice. The Southside eatery now delivers to a five-mile radius. You can order their food online at tbopizza. take in the Jacksonville Brewery Tour com for pick-up or delivery. Also, if you know of someone at the office that you need to get a late Christmas gift for, Tommy’s gift cards are a great solution. They come in $5, $10, $20, $30 and $50 denominations. Warm Florida hospitality and the in- If you’re on the Southside and hungry for a meal before you take in a movie at Tinseltown, Tommy’s is the viting Brew Hall viewing area await guests place for a casual but savory Italian feast. at the Anheuser-Busch Jacksonville Brew- ery tour, where they’ll experience how the world’s freshest beer is brewed and pack- aged. Guests can take in the sights and sounds of the company’s centuries-old brewing process, enjoying the sweet aroma of barley and hops in the Brew Hall while watching from the open-air tour gallery. They will also see the packag- ing lines in action as bottles and cans are filled at a lightning-quick rate of thousands per minute. Guests also pass through the lager cellar, the very place where beer undergoes natural fermentation. Midway through the tour, guests 21 years of age or older may enjoy the the freshest beers avail- able in the world, right there in the Hospitality Room. Before leaving, visit the gift shop and take home some fun, distinctive logoed merchandise. Holiday hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 10 am until 4 pm (gift shop closes at 4:30 pm). Tours and gift shop will be closed Sunday, Dec. 30 - Tuesday, Jan. 1. The Jacksonville brewery has operated in the First Coast community for almost 39 years, brew- ing and packaging more than 12 quality beers, including the world’s top-selling brands, Budweiser and Bud Light. The brewery has a capacity of 8.5 million barrels annually and ships beer to Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and the Caribbean.

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 15 outside, because they’ve got a decent heater out there and can let down plastic windows to hold in the heat. Their fried baskets are popular and include a serving of their homemade slaw and hot French fries. You can get your choice of scallops, crab cakes, fried oysters, fish and of course, fried shrimp. The scallops are not at all tiny. They are large and delish, covered in a fluffy, deep-fried batter. You may well fall in love with their savory crab cakes. Many people have. The oysters, fish and shrimp are also fried favorites. If you can’t decide what to have in your fried basket, there are combo options, wherein you can get two, three or four of the options. If you want any more than that, I think they just start you a new basket. It’s not surprising that the best thing I’ve found on their menu so far is the shrimp—it is Mayport after all. Nothing beats their peel ‘n eat shrimp, spicy from Old Bay Seasoning, with melted butter at the bottom of the shrimp pile. There really isn’t anything like freshly caught, well prepared shrimp. a casual bite the Marina Restaurant at Safe Harbor Seafood Market by Erin thursby [email protected] I wasn’t all that enthused about the seared tuna salad on the menu, mostly because of a lackluster miso Most restaurants in our area have Mayport shrimp somewhere on the menu. This is because Mayport is ginger sauce. There was too much of it and it really failed to do much of anything flavor-wise. The salad itself so close that eateries would be foolish not to take advantage of this source of fresh shrimp. was an excellent combo of flavors, and the cut of tuna was excellent, with decent seasoning. If you order it, If you’re hanging out in Mayport, or you just want to visit the place for the day, you might want to swing just have them put the sauce on the side so you can decide if you like it. by the Marina Restaurant at Safe Harbor. For a casual bite, fresh seafood fans often head to this fish market/ I love soup, so I opted to order their red fish chowder. This salty, savory and lightly acidic soup, filled restaurant. with chunks of tomatoes, cubes of potatoes and fish, is even better after a night in the fridge. Diners order their meal at the counter and then wait for their number, picking up their food when it’s There are some tasty called. You can eat inside at a few of the tables located adjacent to the counter, but most people prefer to deli-style options if that’s take in the Mayport charm, which you can see from the outdoor seating area. Look at rugged shrimp trawl- more your style. Stuffed ers as you keep your meal from over-eager birds. The gulls and their companions are vaguely threatened by potato skins, shrimp and humans, and will only attempt to steal your fries if you leave your meal unattended. A huge sign (which I sus- octopus ceviche, a tortellini pect most people must ignore) says something about not feeding the birds. Even if it’s cold, you can still sit salad and a smoked crab pasta salad are just some of the options you might miss if you don’t take a look at the deli case next to the counter. Desserts are also avail- able, though they aren’t the most popular items. You’ll find the day’s desserts taped to the napkin dispensers at the indoor tables. Key lime pie, cheesecake and choco- late mousse were the selections available when I visited. While I’ve been impressed by Safe Harbor on most visits, especially in terms of cleanliness and smell, this time I spotted some rather unsanitary conditions in the ice dispenser. I was rather shocked by this, since I’ve never been greeted by any kind of bad smell or strong fishy smell in the market. In all my other experi- ences, I’ve taken note of how clean they keep the place. The fish on display are very fresh and generally clear-eyed. Nonetheless, eat at your own risk and make sure you check for obvious signs of neglect. Safe Harbor Seafood Market. 4378 Ocean St, Ste 3 Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 Market hours: Mon-Thu 9pm-5:30pm & Fri-Sat 9am-6pm Marina Restaurant Mon-Sat 10am-8pm

16 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper Other February Shows festival designed to celebrate America’s indigenous Feb 15 - The B-52’s turn the Florida Theatre into their musical form and promote support of the arts. The Love Shack. three-day oceanfront event features a number of Feb 15 - Shangrala CD Release party with Johnathan renowned performers as well as numerous Appleseed and Elevation at Jack Rabbits. displays and activities geared for the entire family. It guide to Feb 24 - Bayside and Straylight Run play emo-indie is held at Jacksonville Beach, Florida’s Oceanfront at Freebird. SeaWalk Pavilion on the 1st weekend of April each Feb 27 - Blues legend Keb Mo brings his guitar to the year. Info:springingtheblues.com Florida Theatre to play for you April 11-13 March 8 Jacksonville Jazz Festival Built to Spill and the Meat Puppets One of the largest such fests in the country, our Indie rock paragon Doug Martsch is back on the road Jazz Fest draws notable Jazz artists from around the with Built to Spill. They are sweeping through Florida country as well as local talent. You’ll find music, art for the first time in more than five years on their way and much more at this mega-fest. Info: coj.net to Langerado with the late Curt Cobain’s favorite Arizona band, the Meat Puppets. Catch them live at April 26 Freebird at Jacksonville Beach. Info: freebirdlive.com/ Butterfly Festival Tree Hill’s 7th Annual Butterfly Festival is scheduled There2008 are plenty of events and shows to choose from in the upcoming year. To kick off your Other March Shows for April 26 at Tree Hill’s 50 acre nature facility and year, here are some of the interesting stage shows you’ll find in the First Coast area through Mar 12 - Ani DiFranco plays her hard-edged folk at nature park on Lone Star Road in Arlington where March. Check out EU’s Spring Performing Arts guide later this year for a more thorough look Freebird. teaching, living and conserving green comes natu- Mar 14 - They Might Be Giants brings their family- rally. The butterfly festival will run from noon – 5pm at the rest of the year! friendly polka rock to Freebird. with a mass butterfly release, live music, food, kids games and activities, and much more! This family January 12 Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Some events in and around Jacksonville come oriented day is Tree Hill’s signature event and last Riders in the Sky Flying cows, killer rabbits, taunting Frenchmen and in like the tide, but you might not be aware of year attracted over 4,000 people! Info: treehill.org With 29-plus years and well over 5,000 perfor- show-stopping musical numbers are just a few of the mances under their collective cowboy belt, Riders in them. Here’s a rundown of just some of the May 15-18 reasons audiences everywhere are eating up Spa- seasonal events you should be discovering this the Sky, the multi-Grammy Award winning Western malot. Info: (904)632-3373 or artistseries.fccj.org. Jacksonville Film Festival music group whose music is firmly grounded in the Location: Times-Union Center, Moran Theater year. If you haven’t been to one of these and it You know a city has arrived when it starts holding its rich American music traditions of such legendary looks interesting to you, mark it on your calen- own film fest. Last year’s fest featured workshops for cowboys singers as Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and the dar! filmmakers featuring world-class advice and instruc- Sons of the Pioneers—and whose fun-filled perfor- Here are a few notable bands or musical acts tion from award-winning filmmakers, parties every mances have enchanted audiences of all ages—are that will be breezing into town early in ’08 that February 23 day of the festival, a terrific selection of fiction and themselves the stuff of legend. Info: (904) 355-2787 you might want to watch for! The Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival documentary films, and loads of shorts. Info: jack- Tickets: $25, $22.50 (Adult); $17.50, $15 (Children) Gates open at 9:00 a.m. The location for these sonvillefilmfestival.com Location: The Florida Theatre January 10 Games is Clay County Fair Grounds on State Road Willie Nelson 16, 2497 SR16 W Green Cove Springs. Tickets pric- May (date not yet determined) February (first weekend) Although James Brown is no longer competing for es are $10 per person in advance or $12 at the gate. Sail Jacksonville THE TALKIES with George Romero the title, Willie Nelson has long been the hardest Kids 10 and under are free. No pets allowed. This maritime festival will highlight the essential roles Legendary filmmaker George Romero will come to working man in showbiz. Constantly on tour, few the St. Johns River and the maritime community the San Marco Theatre to provide commentary to the people play as many dates around the globe as Willie March 6-9 have played in the history of Jacksonville and will film that started it all, Night of the Living Dead. This Nelson, but even more impressive is his extensive Langerado Music Festival be anchored by the visit of several Tall Ships® to king of the zombie film genre joins the ranks of those catalog of hits. He’s been writing music as long as The 6th year of this everglades music festival is bring- Jacksonville’s downtown riverfront. Info: coj.net that have participated in past installments of San Elvis and he has put out so many it’s difficult ing some of the biggest bands to swampy south Marco’s original series THE TALKIES including John to keep his discography straight. But Willie is “on the Florida for three days of camping and music. From July 4th Waters and Herschel Gordon Lewis. Go to thetalkies. road again” bringing his canon of hits to the Florida Beastie Boys and R.E.M. to Matisyahu and The Freedom Fanfare and Fireworks net to get your tickets now. Theatre. Info: (904) 355-2787 Tickets: $71, $61, Roots. Ani DiFranco, Built to Spill, Les Claypool, of Downtown. Fireworks reflecting off the St. Johns $53.50. Location: The Florida Theatre Montreal, Minus the Bear and Pelican are just a few River. The usual beautiful fanfare. Need we say February 1-16 of the dozens of bands (more than 80) playing this more? Info: coj.net Julius X Other January Shows music festival. Go to langerado.com for more details. By grafting the plot and some of the text of Julius Jan 10 - The Gallows play their UK punk at Jack Rab- September Caesar together with the story of Malcolm X’s mur- bits March 8 Talleyrand Festival der, playwright Al Letson Jr. offers a classic demon- Jan 11 - Grammy winning blues legend Taj Mahal at The second annual Talleyrand Music and Arts Festival stration of Shakespeare’s infinite adaptability. The the Florida Theatre This 15K race, held along Jacksonville’s downtown will bring dozens of big named bands to Met Park in Play explores how allies can become assassins and Jan 18 - Hee Haw’s Roy Clark with country prodigy roads and bridges is the largest 15 K run in the U.S. an otherwise dead time of the year for live music. how the struggle for power can turn toxic. Info: play- Junior Brown at the Florida Theatre Info: gate-riverrun.com Look to talleyrandfestival.com for details as they ersbythesea.org Jan 20 - Chuck Ragan of Hot Water Music at Jack become available. Rabbits March 15 February 13 - April 6 Jan 27 - Psychobilly legends Tiger Army at Freebird Great Atlantic Seafood Festival October Company Live. Seafood, fried, boiled, grilled or blackened. Music Spooktacular at Jacksonville Zoo Presently on Broadway, this is a trend setting musi- Jan 31 - Blues guitarist and singer Richie Havens for everyone. Arts & crafts, rides and games for the Fun times for the little ones at the Jacksonville Zoo cal that follows our anti-hero on the night of his 35th plays the Alcazar inside of the Historic Lightner Mu- whole family. during Halloween! Trick or Treat, a maze and October birthday, confirmed bachelor Robert contemplates seum in St. Augustine fun come with zoo admission. his unmarried state. In vignette after hilarious vi- March 16 gnette, we are introduced to “those good and crazy February 14 The 24th Annual Blessing of the Fleet November Post Thanksgiving people,” his married friends, as Robert weighs the Trisha Yearwood Have your boat blessed for the upcoming navigational Jacksonville Light Parade pros and cons of married life. Info: (904) 641-1212 What better way to celebrate Valentines Day than season! Arrive downtown at 1:30 pm and tune to For more than 20 years, the Jacksonville Light Parade or 1-800-688-7469 Tickets: $39-46, includes dinner going to hear some heart-wrenching county ballads. VHF channels 16 and 72 for parade instructions. The has illuminated the St. Johns River. Boats of every and show. Location: Alhambra Dinner Theatre Live at the Florida Theatre. parade will be blessed by Father Kamal Al-Rahil of the shape and size are imaginatively adorned with deco- Tickets: $61, $51, $46 St. George Antiochian Church. Register your boat for rations that captivate senses and stimulate imagina- February 19 – 24 Info: floridatheatre.com the 2008 Blessing of the Fleet and receive a free gift. tions. The Light Parade is the perfect way to stay Monty Python’s Spamalot Direct from Broadway! Northbank Riverfront, Downtown Jacksonville. Info: afloat after the Thanksgiving holiday. This enchanted Winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, February 16 coj.net. night is topped off by an unbelievable fireworks Monty Python’s Spamalot is the outrageous new mu- Van Halen display over the river, featuring the signature bridge sical comedy lovingly ripped off from the film classic Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena April 4-6 “waterfalls.” “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Spamalot tells The legendary Van Halen has added Jacksonville to Northbank riverwalk- 7 pm Info: (904) 630-3690 or the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round their tour. Info: jaxevents.com/jacksonvillearena Springing The Blues is a free outdoor blues music coj.net

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 17 live music & inventive new shows calendar music with old THURSDAY, JANUARY 3 Southern Wailers Seven Bridges, Jax (997- 1999) school roots Pianist Tim Nold Seawalk Hotel, Jax Beach (249-9981) Outlaw Son & the Renegades Brewsters, Jax kLoB live at Café 331 (223-9850) Destany Dick’s Wings, Orange Park by Rick grant [email protected] Alexander Seier Chicago Pizza, St. Augustine My first trip to Café 331 was to check out Kip’s gravely world-worn Southern Troube Reni’s Rooster, Jax (880- Kip Kolb’s all original five piece band kLoB. The voice sounds like a cross 1111) upscale room was a fitting place to present this between Tom Waits and Bruce Tough Junkie TSI, Jax (635-3024) class act. Hatched from Kip Kolb’s creative musical Springsteen. These players are Str8 Up 9th & Main, Jax mind, kLoB got its start ten years ago as a vehicle experienced and savvy enough for Kip’s inventive songwriting. Today, kLoB defies to appeal to a wide spectrum Cloud 9 Twisted Martini, Ponte Vedra Beach categorization as a modern rock band that crosses of music devotees, without (280-8810) over many musical genres. coming off as elitist. kLoB is fun Open Mic w/Colleen Murphy Trade Winds Over its tenure as a working band, kLoB has to listen to and Kip’s repartee Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) evolved into a tautly wired ensemble which is more with the audience is witty with a than the sum its parts. Indeed, this musical force tinge of sardonic tone. The Handshake Murders Jack Rabbits, Jax attracts all age groups to its hot modern sound, Kip’s songs come off with foot-tapping energy. in Kip’s musical spell. The song builds crescendo to (398-7496) which is an alchemy of avant-garde ideas and old ‘Tired but Good’ is imbued with a funky rhythm, the end, leaving that organ sound stamped on one’s Nu Testament The Arena, Jax school concepts, distilled into a unique trademark which sets the tone for Kip’s vocals accented with brain. It’s funky hipness that turns into hypnosis. sound. his mournful harmonica. The music gets into your ‘All the Time’ begins as an parody of a Beatles Primitive Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) Kip leads the group with his advanced keyboard blood like a jolt of good hit, making one “tired but song that suddenly veers away from the Fab Four’s Chuck Nash My Place, Jax (737-5299) playing, gritty vocals, and harmonica improvisations. good, and this is how I’m supposed to feel.” And concept. It then becomes a quasi-rap song. Here Brian Jenkins plays drums, Louie LeClaire plays sure, we know what he’s talking about, but the song is a good example of unexpected surprises in Kip’s Ron Rodriguez Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997- bass, Mike Kiramarios plays saxophone, and Mike itself is worth inhaling, causing a musical high. music that clears out the cobwebs from one’s brain. 1955) Bowman plays guitar, vocals, and percussion. ‘Tree’ utilizes Mike Kiramarios’ smooth-as-silk Yes, this is tasty stuff that gets attention from kLoB’s Mariachi Guadalajara Jimadores, Jax (739- Together this assemblage of top-tier musicians crank saxophone, which is prominent in the mix. “When it audiences. 5828) out a repertoire of Kip’s original songs, which evoke all comes crashing down... it could be my last time,” From the stage, Kip said the band is going into old school imagery fused with new ideas. as the song builds momentum to a climax, accented Go Ask Alice Roadhouse, Orange Park (264- the studio in February to record a second album The band is full of surprises, yet Kip‘s songs by Mike’s saxophone improvisations. The result is a 0611) of original music. Then, wisely, the band is hitting make sense, never straying too far from his moving anthem of love gone bad. Well, love always the road, expanding is horizons. Put simply, kLoB Mr. Natural Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange main themes. In other words, kLoB is a group of goes wrong, doesn’t it?” is a band that never goes out of style because it Park (269-4198) sophisticated musicians who have matured into ‘Of a Story’ begins with Kip’s haunting chordal presents songs which are hits waiting to happen. Boogie Freaks Square One, Jax (306-9004) a cohesive ensemble, yet avoiding full-scale jazz rhythm on his B3 facsimile. “I could tell you anything More importantly, kLoB’s music appeals to diverse improvisation. Catchy songs with funky beats and that was going on in my life and you knew just demographic. Once the kLoB door is opened to the Steve Plays Too Loud London Bridge, Jax soulful sounds define Kip’s concept. I could hear what to say to make it go away...” all the while his outside world beyond Jax, there is no stopping it. (359-0001) the master of funkadelic, George Clinton and Chaka relentless organ chords played in the rhythm of the Intelligent songwriting is the fuel that will drive this Colton & Friends The Mill Top, St. Augustine Kahn’s influences in Kip’s bag of songwriting tricks. song. It’s a powerful technique to hold the listener band to glory. (829-2329)

Matt Still Paco’s, Jax Beach Out of Hand Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) Stu Weaver Coffee Roasters, Jax (260-0810) Big Engine Box Seats, Jax (908-7328) Matt Collins Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515) Ace Winn The Melting Pot, Jax

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine (824-9317) Crystal Bessels Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) Sweet Low Down West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) Ace Winn Copelands, Jax Kelly Atkins Jazz Quartet The Grape, Jax (642-7111) Down Theory Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246- 2473)

18 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper the early days. Brainworms, EYC Café Eleven, St. Augustine ASG formed in 2001, recording their first album (460-9311) the following year. They signed on with Volcom and went on tour to promote their album. They played Last To Leave Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach the ‘04 Warped Tour and have done several national (242-9499) tours. Many of their tracks have made it to TV as Point Blank Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829- background music for MTV shows, such as Viva 8333) La Bam. You’ll also find them as background on Luke Stephens Band Jack Rabbits, Jax (398- skateboarding, snowboarding and surfing videos. 7496) They’ve released an album every other year since they started, although the first two albums feature Charlie Walker Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra many of the same songs. Beach (280-5515) ASG is out of North Carolina, in a music scene Dana Salmela Café Centro, St. Augustine that has grown considerably since the band first hit the stage. Victoria Horne Tini Martini Bar, St. Augustine “When we first started, as far as places to play Space Station 5 Fuel, Jax (425-3835) or other bands coming through town, we weren’t getting new music…There was one little hole-in-the- ACME Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) wall…It was a hardcore Southern kind of place, so Thousand Day Massacre Brewsters Pit, Jax that’s what people did…Now, six years later, there’s (223-9850) five or six places to play and we’ve got national… [tours] coming through.” EkoTren French Quarter, Jax (732-9550) The band was originally intended to be Alexander Seier Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic instrumental, as none of the band members really Beach (249-9595) wanted to sing lead. They searched for a singer but eventually gave up and guitarist Jason Shi bravely Johnny Flood Aromas, Jax (928-0515) took up the microphone. “We never really liked the idea of a lead FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY rockin’ out of carolina singer, but it kind of evolved over time…I was very 4-5 reluctant…I enjoy it now, more than I used to.” They’re a seasoned band now, as far as touring Red River Band Trade Winds Lounge, St. interview with ASG is concerned, but Shi recalls when their label had Augustine (829-9336) them hit the road to promote their album. Pili Pili Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270- “We all quit our jobs…we hadn’t really toured 8940) by Erin thursby [email protected] legitimately, just locally…aw man, we were like fish out of water…but we learned…and since then we’ve Yancy Clegg My Place, Jax (737-5299) What: ASG and Year Long Disaster In fact, it’s difficult for the self-critical Shi to never really stopped [touring]…since then it’s six Dueling Pianos Dick’s Wings/Tinseltown, th When: January 8 @ 8 pm even listen to their early stuff, because he can hear months in a van every year.” Jax Where: Landshark Café “all the mistakes.” Despite their lack of perfect While the CDs of ASG are pretty rockin’ we’ve technical mastery on the first album, the spirit of the heard that their live performances aren’t to be Cupid’s Alley 747 Lounge, Jax (741-4331) ASG has grown up a lot as a band since they music got them tied to a label within a year. missed. They’ve been a band that toured almost Out of Hand Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162) first started. The initials, in case you’re wondering, In the first album, he says he had more of a from the beginning of their career and they invest stand for the Amplification of Self-Gratification, tendency to yell, because they had the idea that a lot of themselves in their performance. They’ve Wild Card Danny’s Sports Bar, Orange Park which is also the title of their first album. Musically, they wanted to be hardcore. As they’ve gotten more picked up a second guitar, so you’ll get dual guitar Susie Kite Band Whitey’s Fish Camp, they’ve gotten more polished and skilled, as is comfortable with playing, they’ve calmed down action in the form of Jason Shi and their second Orange Park (269-4198) evidenced by their newest album, Win Us Over. some, into the stoner-esque hard rock they are guitarist, Jonah Citty. Livid The Hidden Door, Jax EU spoke to ASG front man Jason Shi about today. Their sound is a blend of southern rock, metal You can catch them live at the Landshark Café, the band’s past and present. and punk rock with just a little grunge. It’s music that along with Year Long Disaster on January 8th at 8 The Alliance Shannons Irish Pub, Green “I think that the band has grown up a lot since rocks out, but is still chill, with killer guitars. Of the pm. If you want to take a listen to ASG before you Cove Springs (230-9670) our first album…We finally have more of a sense of current sound, Shi says that “there’s a little bit more go, take a look at their MySpace page at myspace. Cloud 9 Ragtime Tavern, Atlantic Beach direction than when we first started,” says Shi. melody,” on the band’s latest cut than there was in com/asgmusic. (241-7877) Quest Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) Blistur Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215- 8999) Spade McQuade Fly’s Tie, Atlantic Beach (246-4293)

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 Robby Schenck Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) General Tso’s Fury Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) Diario Vivir Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241- 6453) The Sweet Low Down Square One, Jax (306- 9004) Last To Leave Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) Ritmo y Sabor El Taino Restaurant, Jax Heavenly Noise Starlite Café, Jax (356-4444) Alexander Seier Spare Time Tavern, Jax Beach (246-8099)

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 19 Bill Rice Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515) Strings of Fire Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) Johnny Flood Pussers Caribbean Grill, Ponte Vedra EU: It seems like you’ve built a substantial fan base over the past couple of years. What do you Amber Rose Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829- think contributed to that more- the Internet or your 8333) live shows? Look What I Did Brewsters Pit, Jax (223- JD: Probably the Internet. We haven’t played outside 9850) Florida that much and the Internet gives us access to potential fans all around the world. Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St.

Augustine (824-9317) EU: You guys have a great rapport with your fans. Chaos Theory The Grape, Jax (642-7111) Will you keep that up once you make it big? Shawn Lightfoot BOGDA, Jax JD: Yes. I know bands say that all the time, but we love our fans more than anything. We will run our Destany Woody’s BBQ, Jax MySpace/websites personally as long as we possi- beginner’s luck? bly can, and we will always be the band to hang out The Rise of Science Jack Rabbits, Jax (398- 7496) and talk to every single person. We have some of the coolest fans on the planet. We are very blessed. Drunk Horses Make Slow Getaways Doozers, interview with The Sophomore Attempt Jax EU: You’ll be playing the Wherefore CD release Wherefore CD Release, The Sophomore by kelliE abraHamSoN [email protected] show on January 5th. How did you meet those Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) were trying to do musically. Everything just fell into guys? Move over Black Kids. There’s plenty of na- place when we started recording. We’re really happy JD: We’ve been friends with members of Wherefore Attempt, Matlock, The Namesake tional spotlight to go around and The Sophomore with it. for a long time. We’ve played with those guys when Stu Weaver Harry’s, Jax Beach (247-8855) Attempt is getting their share. The band will be fea- they were all in separate bands and we’re really tured in February’s issue of Alternative Press. In the EU: What do you want fans to take away from your excited they all came together. We haven’t heard the Ace Winn The Melting Pot, Jax meantime EU caught up with Jeremiah Dunlap, lead music? CD yet. I talked to the singer Cory tonight about it Open Mic w/Larry Broussard St. Johns Pizza singer of TSA, who filled us in about their new CD, JD: We just want people to listen to our songs and he explained the whole theme of it to me and it Grill, Jax (287-9900) their upcoming shows and their plans for the New and identify with feelings and emotions that we’ve got me really excited. Hopefully we’ll be hearing it Year. experience. More than anything, we want people to this week. enjoy themselves. We put a huge amount of effort SUNDAY, JANUARY 6 EU: The last time I saw you guys was over a year into writing musical versions of ourselves. Hopefully EU: January 12th is a benefit show for The Sopho- Those Guys Sunset Grill, St. Augustine (471- and a half ago at the Florida Theatre. How have people can take our songs a number of different more Attempt. Tell us about that. 5555) you changed since then? ways and apply them to things in their own lives that JD: Well, between recording/releasing Hallways, Jeremiah Dunlap: I think every band naturally they need help or encouragement with. buying merch, and surviving without label support, Dan Shepherd Harpoon Louie’s, Jax (389- improves and evolves over that period of time, but we’ve left ourselves with a very small amount of 5631) we’ve made a definitive effort to have our live show EU: It’s no secret you guys are Christians. What money. We are in the process of buying a van and Johnny Flood Sliders, Fernandina be tighter and more interesting to watch. The addi- role does faith play in your music? booking a tour, but that takes money that we don’t tion of Ian (our guitarist) has really added a lot to our JD: In the past, and with Hallways, it didn’t play have. We’re just trying to get enough money to help Johnny Flood The Brix, Jax Beach stage dynamic. We’ve also thrown in a couple new a large role in the actual lyrics and music. It’s not us with that so we can get on tour full time. Maybe The Restless Kind Michelle’s, Jax tricks. You’ll have to come out to a show to see. We something we did purposefully, because we are a label will pick us up and solve our problems try to one-up ourselves at every show. very open about our faith and the effect it has on [laughs]. Human Factors Lab Jack Rabbits, Jax (398- our lives, but it’s not something we incorporated. 7496) EU: You released an album a few months back. Tell Our newer stuff, however, is much more driven by The Sophomore Attempt will be playing at the Isaac Byrd Jr. De Real Ting Café, Jax us a little about it. it. We’ve decided to take a step in a different direc- Murray Hill Theatre on January 5th and Jack Rabbits on January 12th. To hear four songs from Hallways Hadou Ken Shantytown, Jax JD: We love Hallways. We really developed our tion lyrically. It’s nothing drastic, but the next record sound and came into our own with this CD. Up until will be much more driven by our faith and things we and learn more about the band, visit their MySpace Chris Miller Metro, Jax Hallways, we had been trying to figure out what we struggle with. at myspace.com/thesophomoreattempt. Ken Mcanlis Scarlett’s, St. Augustine (824- 6535) Tarik Hassan Sahara Café, Jax David Milam Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997- 1955) Fusebox The Good News Church, St. Augustine Jimmy Parrish Carib Key, Jax Beach (270- 8940) Ron Perry Ragtime, Atlantic Beach (241-7877) Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) 3rd Bass The Casbah, Jax (981-9966) El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) Jan Crawford & Friends Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Cloud 9 Sundog Diner, Neptune Beach (241- 8221) Michael Funge Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595)

20 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper MONDAY, JANUARY 7 Spade McQuade Fly’s Tie, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Matt Still Gingers, Jax Beach Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-9336) Freeze Frame Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) Joey Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Laughing Bones Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Will Pearsall The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829- 2329) Lary Smith Harmonious Monks, Jax (886- 3040) Goliath Casbah, Jax (981-9966) Band of Destiny Square One, Jax (306-9004) Nolan Neal Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Stu Weaver Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) Chuck Nash My Place, Jax (737-5299)

TUESDAY, JANUARY 8 Stu Weaver The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829- 2329) Southern Wailers Sangria’s, St. Augustine Play Action Pass Brewsters Pit, Jax (223- 9850) Open Mic w/Outlaw Son & the Renegades Brewsters, Jax (223-9850) Anastasia Zhanra’s, St. Augustine Out of Hand Palace Saloon, Fernandina Chuck Nash Your Place, Jax Beach (221- 9994)

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9 Dave Massey My Place, Jax (737-5299) Rowka Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Chelsea Saddler Tijuana Flats, Jax (737- 9938) Darth Vatour Fuel, Jax (425-3835) Southern Wailers Brewsters Pit, Jax (223- 9850) Ron Perry Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162) Shawn Lightfoot The Casbah, Jax (981-9966) Wes Cobb Band Square One, Jax (306-9004) Jesse & Leaa Cortesses, St. Augustine (825- 6775) Jodies Fiasco Castillo de Mexico, Jax Soulo Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280- 5515) The Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax (396-3396) El Toro Loco Aromas, Ponte Vedra (280- 2525) Chuck Nash Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) Pili Pili Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293)

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 21 Dave Massey My Place Bar & Grill, Jax (737- fact that he loves himself and uses people, he is a 5299) dynamic singer and performer. Del makes a play for Marge, thinking her father is a big time manager of talent who can help his career. Gabe (D. Garrett Smith) is a combination upcoming concerts handyman, busboy, and cabana boy who acts like a nerd, but is secretly a brilliant songwriter. He also Willie Nelson Jan. 10, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 develops the hots for Marge complicating the issue Blast! Jan. 10, The Times-Union Center, 633-6110 of who is in love with whom. The final two cast members are Esther, the Taj Mahal Jan. 11, The Florida Theatre, 355-2787 owner of the resort, played by Alhambra veteran Riders in the Sky Jan. 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Patti Eyler and Harry, played by Tony Triano, the Perpetual Groove Jan. 12, Freebird Live, 246-2473 master of ceremonies, standup comic, and occa- sional vocalist. The expected romances develop, but Zac Harmon/Ronnie Baker Brooks Jan. 12, Mojos it is mostly the wonderful music that fits nicely into Blues Bar, 247-6636 and shapes the lightweight and funny story. Alham- Galatic Jan.13, Freebird Live, 246-2473 bra newcomer Michele Scully is Lois, the ultimate dumb blond with a gorgeous body, a beautiful face, The Machine Performs Pink Floyd Jan. 16, Freebird and a terrific singing voice. I don’t need a crystal ball Live to predict a future with many leading roles for this Kathy Griffin Jan. 17, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 very talented lady. I hope some day Tony Triano will put together Roy Clark and Junior Brown Jan.18, Florida Theatre, a one-man show. He has done so many terrific roles 355-2787 and bits of just a few could easily become a two- Enter the Haggis, Jan. 18 , Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 hour show. In Breaking up is Hard to Do, he sings the signature song by adding his own special charm. Mojo Warriors (Ex Karl Denson/Tishamingo) Jan. He also makes a brief but hilarious appearance as 18, Freebird Live Miss December in the song ‘Calendar Girl.’ Playing The Unity Music Festival featuring Rabbit In The gender-bending roles is nothing new to Tony, and Moon, Bad Boy Bill, George Acosta, Mike B., Ying breaking up is hard he was fabulous in La Cage aux Folles, and as the Yang Twins, Trina, Lil Webbie, Lil Boosie, Young teacher in Grease. Cash, Bigga Rankins & more Jan. 19, Metropolitan As I listened to song after song, I was sur- Park, Info: 1-888-UNITY21 prised at how many I remembered, but of course Sedeka has many Billboard hits. You will find your- Dancing With The Stars - The Tour Jan. 22, to do self humming along with Connie Francis’s signature Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 song, ‘Where the Boys Are.’ Or perhaps numbers like George Strait Jan. 24, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 ‘Oh Carol,’ ‘Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen,’ or ‘Love Tyler Perry’s The Marriage Counselor Jan. 24-27, Alhambra Dinner Theatre Review Will Keep Us Together’ will bring back memories of Moran Theater, 353-3309 the 60s and 70s. by dick kerekes [email protected] The humor is suitable for all audiences and Cherryholmes Jan. 26, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 reminded me of comedian Heni Youngman. Example: Ring of Fire - The Music of Johnny Cash Jan. 28, The Alhambra Dinner Theatre has been among sort nightclub. The open stage is used for the entire “They say that a man is not complete until he is mar- Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Jacksonville’s top entertainment destination for more show, with a bandstand and a 4-piece band in place. ried . . . then he is FINISHED.” than 40 years and they just A backstage wall slides in Ellen Milligan is the Musical Director and also David Copperfield Jan. 29, Moran Theater, 632-3373 opened the North Florida pre- and out for action behind the leads the excellent band on the piano. Adam Date- Miley Cirus as Hannah Montana Jan. 30, mier of Breaking up Is Hard scenes. line, Andrea Dateline, and Maria DeSimone are the Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 to Do. This musical features Marge (Sarah Spi- very harmonious backup singers who you will hear sixteen songs of legendary gelman) is in the audience of during the entire show, but only see at curtain call Tim Reynolds Jan. 31, Freebird Live, 246-2473 singer/songwriter Neil Sedaka, the floorshow trying to get since they perform totally behind the set. Sister Hazel Feb. 1, Freebird Live, 246-2473 which have been woven into a over being jilted at the church Director/Choreographer Tod Booth has an story by Erik Jackson and Ben by her intended groom. impressive cast in this show with excellent voices. Classic Albums Live - Led Zeppelin IV Feb. 5, Florida H. Winters. She has brought along her Breaking up Is Hard to Do is a very likeable and Theatre, 355-2787 Sedaka, who at age 68 girlfriend Lois, to share the entertaining musical. Although you have most likely The Pink Floyd Experience Feb. 6, Moran Theater, still occasionally performs, has accommodations that would never seen this production, it has many songs 632-3373 written over 1,000 songs, was have been her honeymoon that you are sure to know and enjoy. Most of Neil Donna The Buffalo Feb. 9, Freebird Live, 246-2473 inducted into the Songwriter’s suite. Sedaka’s songs are about relationships and romance Hall of Fame, and was given a W.C. Green is Del Demonoco, and never go out of style. Breaking up Is Hard to Do Trisha Yearwood Feb.14, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 star on the Hollywood Walk of the headline singer, who will run through February 10th at the Alhambra Dinner Fame. comes across as a mix of Theatre (12000 Beach Blvd). Call (904) 641-1212 The B-52’s Feb. 15, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 This show is set in the l960s at a Catskills re- Elvis and Vince Fontaine (of Grease). Despite the for more information and to make reservations. Chris Duarte Feb. 15, Mojos Blues Bar, 247-6636 Van Halen Feb. 16, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 Lalah Hathaway Feb.17, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 The 15th Annual Great Guitar Gathering Feb. 22, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Leon Russell Feb. 22, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Steep Canyon Rangers Feb. 22, Mojos Blues Bar, 247-6636 Willy Porter Feb. 23, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 Michael Bublé Feb. 24, Jacksonville Arena, 353- 3309 Bayside, Straylight Run Feb. 24, Freebird Live, 246- 2473

22 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper of them, as she feels it detracts from the canvas. The glass is included; it’s just tucked on the inside of the frame behind the piece. She was also display- art events ing fabric art mostly in the form of neat little quilted greeting cards. new this week Fabric art is starting to gain respect in the artistic community. Newcomer to the scene, Nina St. Augustine Art Walk, First Friday of every month from 5 pm – 9 pm, Tours begin at Rembrandtz Fine Gifts for Fun Bridier, makes crafty art that is useful as well artis- People, 131 King Street, St. Augustine, (904) 829-0065 or tic. She sews various purses, enhances frames with staugustinegalleries.com collage work (pictures of grandchildren not included) and also makes intricate fabric dolls. They take a Downtown Art Walk, First Wednesday of each month from long time to make, but each doll is unique. 5 pm – 9 pm, A map of the galleries can be acquired at any of the venues, including MOCA Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Landing, and Art Walk Headquarters at 100 North Laura Street

Labor Show, Saturday January 5, 8 pm – 11 pm, Bogda Gallery, 1253 McDuff Avenue South, (904) 387-0852 ongoing Flowers In Winter, Featuring Gail Taylor and Frank Matthews, On display until December 29, Bogda, 1253 McDuff Avenue South, Riverside, (904) 387-0852 or Shopbogda@gmail. com

December Show featuring Gail Taylor and Frank Matthews, Through December 31 Bogda, 1253 McDuff Avenue South, (904) 387-0852

On Paper: Archer Prewitt, Through December 31, The Gallery at Screen Arts, 228 West King Street, St. Augustine, art for your life (904) 829-2838 or screenartsflorida.com Slice of Life, Through January 6, St Augustine Art 3 Eclectic Chicks Trunk Show Association, (904) 824-2310 or staaa.org Valuistics: A printed installation by James Greene, Through January 6 MOCA Jacksonville, 333 North Laura Street, Downtown, Also part of the fabric art on display and for by Erin thursby [email protected] (904) 366-6911 x210 or mocajacksonville.org sale (but not part of this particular show), are the There’s a new space for art in San Marco out of town the following weekend, when they had a works of Diane Hamburg, whose dyeing techniques Minoru Ohira Sculpture Exhibit, Through January 6 called the 3 Eclectic Chicks Art Boutique. If you chainsaw wood sculpting demo and a book signing. are always riveting and experimental. She uses fabric MOCA Jacksonville, 333 North Laura Street, Downtown, haven’t yet discovered it during Christmas shopping, While you might be able to wear the art that as her medium, testing various dyes in quilting de- (904) 366-6911 x210 or mocajacksonville.org you really should visit—not just because they carry Heather Ferman creates, it is bona fide art. She signs and more. some of the most unique items in town, but also makes glass beads, which often encase tiny, elabo- “My art,” says Hamburg, “is created with the Coherent Structures, Recent Silverpoint Paintings by Carol because much of what they feature is useful art. Art rate glass flower designs. Ferman is a local who has hope of capturing those times when one glances Prusa, Through January 6 can be practical as well as decorative. Here you can been featured in museums across the country and up through the leaves towards the sky or when one MOCA Jacksonville, 333 North Laura Street, Downtown, (904) 366-6911 x210 or mocajacksonville.org find art to wear, art to sit on or to wash your hands is known for her works of exquisite glass bead art. takes a big deep breath after trudging over the sand with. That’s right, wash your hands with. Who says An entire display of her work as well as a video of dunes and first glancing at the sea, sky and sun. Sculptures by Duncan Johnson, Through January 6 that soap making’s not an art? It certainly is when the artist actually going through the glass molding That thrill of the vastness and beauty of Mother Na- MOCA Jacksonville, 333 North Laura Street, Downtown, it’s well-crafted and done in a mosaic style. process was featured just inside the door. It was ture is shared in my fiber creations.” (904) 366-6911 x210 or mocajacksonville.org Art can be part of your everyday life, and that’s an incredible video. “My goal,” says Ferman, “is to You’ll find the strange, the funky and the occa- the feeling behind this place. It supports local artists create functional works of art.” sional traditional gift shop offering scattered about 3 Raddle Cross & Dowsing, Installations by Martha who don’t just do the traditional canvas-paint stuff, Beth Sullivan had plenty of nature photos at the Eclectic Chicks Art Boutique. It’s just as entertaining Whittington, Through January 6 but who are artists just the same. Lots of the stuff trunk show, with gorgeous flowers in close-ups and as a gallery show because there are so many differ- MOCA Jacksonville, 333 North Laura Street, Downtown, on display skates the skittery edge between art and long shots of lush gardens. She takes the majority of ent types of art, craft and styles represented in the (904) 366-6911 x210 or mocajacksonville.org many rooms. They’re planning to open up a coffee craft, falling to one side or the other, depending on her photos out West. It was pretty affordable to take Winter Selections: Zachary Freeman and Tonya Lee, who’s looking at it. home one of these little pieces of nature, both as and tea room soon and I think it’s going to be a great Through January 11 I visited 3 Eclectic Chicks Boutique in Decem- postcard style art and as giclee prints of the photos gathering place for interesting artists. J. Johnson Gallery, 177 4th Avenue North, Jacksonville ber for their Trunk Show. Most weekends they have on canvas. They can be framed or unframed, but she Check them out at 1704 Hendricks Avenue or Beach, 904-435-3200 or jjohnsongallery.com something interesting going on. I was sad that I was displays the framed pieces without the glass in front call (904) 306-0923. Apron Chronicles: A Patchwork of American Recollections, Through January 16, Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach, Monday, January 7 · 7:30pm-10:30pm 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, (904) 280-0614 listen up & chill out Live Music Thursday, January 3· 8:30pm-12:30am Abbas Kiarostami: Photographs and Film, Through January Closed For Renovation 2 for 1 Drafts 18 Friday, January 4 · 8:30pm-12:30am Tuesday, Jan. 8 · 7:30pm-10:30pm Southeast Museum of Photography, 1200 International Live Music Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, smponline.org $6 Late Menu 10-midnite Hospitality Nite- w/William Skylar $2 Drafts & Complimentary Hors d'oeuvres Saturday, January 5 ·8:30pm-12:30am Blurring The Lines: Heather Blanton and Ryan Ketterman, Live Music Through January 30 $6 Late Menu 10-midnite Wednesday, Jan. 9 · 8:30-midnight The Haskell Gallery at JIA, jiaarts.org/index.htm Ladies Nite w/Jesse & Leaa Sunday, January 6 · 8:30pm-1:30am $5 Special Ladies Martini & Abstraction and Transition: Charley Harris, Through Live Music Complimentary Hors d'oeuvres January 31, Art Center Gallery, 31 West Adams Street, Downtown, blogfromthecenter.blogspot.com Sundays Champagne Brunch 11-4 Precious Gifts of Asian Art, Through January 2008 CortessesLAMINGO ROOM F Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Avenue, 172 SAN MARCO AVENUE Fall Dinner Special · $12 Every Day Includes Salad ST.AUGUSTINE • 904-825-6775 Flamingo Room 4:30-7pm · Bistro 4:30-6:30pm Schedule Subject to Change Riverside, (904) 356-6857 or cummer.org

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 23 Inherit the Winds In 1997, Tom Nehl took the step that would, in my opinion, earn him the unofficial title of North Florida Theater’s Guardian Angel. He established the cultural events Community Theater Initiative as a grant-making pro- gram designed to improve the quality of community JANUARY theater productions in the region. The Community 3 The Art of Spoken Word Ritz Theatre, Jax Foundation has awarded grants totaling more than 3-5 Expressions of Italy Village Gallery, Orange Park $600,000 since its inception. Community theaters in this area can apply 3-5 New Year’s Bluegrass Festival Jekyll Island twice a year, in February and August. They submit Convention Center, Jekyll Island an application listing needs and costs, item by item. 3-6 Sculptor: Minoru Ohira Exhibit MOCA, Jax Tom, his wife, Jean, and his daughter, Linda, review 3-6 Slice of Life Show St. Augustine Art Association, St. the requests and recommend which to approve. Augustine Requests must meet one or many requirements in order of importance. Funds must be used to improve 3-12 First Annual Artist Member Holiday Exhibition Cultural Center, Ponte Vedra artistic excellence (costumes, sets, music), support the production of a play that would not otherwise 3-12 The Works of Doris Wiseman, Charles Bear & Myra be possible, support the purchase of equipment Jean Schick Reddi Arts, Jax (lights, audio, and communications), and support 3-20 The Fantasticks Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine the education and training of volunteers. After the 3-16 Apron Chronicles: A Patchwork of American funds have been approved, the organization receives Recollections Cultural Center, Ponte Vedra a check in less than two weeks. They must then submit the receipts as proof of how the funds were 3-30 “Blurring the Lines” Photography by Heather Blanton spent. & Ryan Ketterman JIA, Jax 3-30 Gil Mayers In Retrospect Karpeles Manuscript Museum, Jax A Funny Thing Happened on the 3-31 Featured Artist: Charley Harris The Art Center, Jax to the Forum 3-FEB. 3 In Stabiano: Exploring Ancient Seaside Villas of the Roman Elite Cummer Museum, Jax 3-FEB. 10 “Breaking Up is Hard To Do” The Alhambra Dinner Theatre, Jax a guardian angel 3-FEB. 28 Oh Say Can You See: American Art Cummer Museum, Jax 4 First Friday Art Walk Various Venues, St. Augustine 4 Bella Voce Cabaret Friday Musicale, Jax the Tom Nehl Fund at the Community 4 Mad Cowford Comedy 9th & Main, Jax 4 Winter Selections J. Johnson Gallery, Jax Beach Foundation 4 Art Rageous First Friday Various Venues, Fernandina 4-30 Turkish Maps Exhibit Karpeles Manuscript Museum, Jax by dick kerekes [email protected] 4-31 Jay Shoots Now-Photographs & Sculpture PIE Studio, Jax If I were writing a history of theater in North and among his favorite roles were Professor Higgins 5 Orchids 101 Jax Zoo & Gardens, Jax Florida, the year 1958 would certainly merit mention. in My Fair Lady, Harold Hill in Music Man, and Jester That was the year a young man moved to Jackson- in Once upon a Mattress. 5 Auditions: Ladies of the Alamo 2pm ABET, Atlantic ville and opened a truck dealership. His name, Tom Before I became a writer for this newspaper Beach Nehl. His loves, racing cars and playing golf, were back in 1981, I had the pleasure of appearing with 5-6 Jackie Mason-The Ultimate Jew FCCJ Wilson Center, only exceeded by his passion for live theater. His first Nehl in two plays, Calculated Risk at the Fairfax Jax starring role was in Mary Mary at Theatre Jackson- Guild Players and Bus Stop, at Theatre Jacksonville. 6 Practice World Peace Memorial Park, Jax ville in 1963. During his long acting career on local stages, Talk to the artistic director or executive director Over the years he has appeared on stage in Nehl, the astute businessman, also got involved as of any of the local community theater groups and 6 Audition: The Night of the Iguana 3pm Players By the more than forty different productions including dra- an officer and board member in other aspects of they will all emphatically say, “We could not have Sea, Jax Beach mas, comedies and musicals. As he modestly wrote theater with several theater groups. What the audi- put on the shows we did without Tom Nehl.” Sit in 6 R. Carlos Nakai & Udi Bar-David St. Paul’s By The Sea, in a program biography once “I can sing a little, ence enjoyed on stage took a lot of hard work, plan- any community theatre in Northeast Florida, and the Jax Beach dance a little, and act a little.” He acted in venues ning and money, and the latter always seems to be lights and sound you enjoy are probably a result of 7-FEB. 7 The Maple Leaf: American Civil War Shipwreck that included those well known to today’s theatergo- in short supply. Nehl made many personal financial Nehl’s initiatives and contributions. The wonderful Thrasher Horne Jack Mitchell Gallery, Orange Park ers. Like most theater patrons, he loved musicals, contributions to various theatres and theater groups. costumes in ABET’s Once Upon a Mattress, Players 8 Shanghai Acrobats FCCJ Wilson Center for the Arts, Jax 10 The Fabric of Our Lives: Quilts of Nassau County Exhibit Amelia Island Museum of History, Amelia Island 10 Seminar: Hunger Free Forever by Dr. Michael Murray Native Sun Natural Foods, Jax 10-FEB. 13 Duval County Art Teachers Exhibit JU Brest Museum, Jax 10-APRIL 30 Jazz History Course Taught By Landon Walker First Coast Community Music School, Jax 11 Wine & Design BoConcept/St. Johns, Jax 11-19 “Called Girl” Players By The Sea, Jax Beach 11-26 “Dearly Departed” Theatre Jax, Jax 11-FEB. 2 “Come Blow Your Horn” Orange Park Community Theatre, Orange Park 4

24 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper by the Sea’s Cabaret, and Orange Park Community for The Community Foundation, says the Tom Nehl How to Succeed Theatre’s Cinderella would not have been possible Fund is unique. He attends national conventions for in Business without the Tom Nehl Fund. And the list of shows he philanthropy and, as far as he knows, there is noth- cultural events (continued) has assisted goes on and on. ing like this for community theater in any other city in In 1992 Tom Nehl established this fund with the USA. 12 Exotic Plant Species Pull Ft. Clinch State Park, The Community Foundation as a gift to the theater Speaking for the hundreds of North Florida Fernandina community that would keep on giving for years to residents who attend performances at community 12 First Amendment Saturdays Poetry Slam Jasmine’s come. Thanks to the fine management and wise theaters, our thanks to Tom Nehl for raising the level Coffeehouse, St. Augustine investments by The Community Foundation, the fund of the quality of what we see and what we hear com- continues to grow steadily and now has a value of ing across those footlights. It is getting better and 12 Trio Virtuosi – EMMA Concert Series Flagler College, St. Augustine more than 1.5 million dollars, of which five percent better because of his efforts. can be granted each year. Future generations of In looking over the many roles he has played 12-FEB. 16 Drama Workshop For Children ABET, Atlantic theatergoers in this area will enjoy better community on local stages over the years, I notice that he has Beach theater productions because Tom Nehl had and has a almost always played good guys! Do I wonder why? 13 Intermezzo: Free Sunday Concert Main Library, Jax passion; a passion for live theater. It is because it is his natural role. As we applaud 15 Doctor Doolittle-Theatreworks Florida Theatre, Jax What is community theater? For the purposes Tom Nehl, I hope he takes his bows now. Because of The Tom Nehl Fund, a community theatre is de- of his foresight, there will never be a final curtain 15-20 Circue Dream Jungle Fantasy Performing Arts for the Tom Nehl-Fund, only repeat performances of Center, Jax good theater. 16-20 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Veterans Arena, Jax 17 North Beaches Art Walk 200 First Street, Neptune Beach 17 Kathy Griffin Florida Theatre, Jax 17 Glenn Miller Orchestra FCCJ Wilson Center, Jax 17-MAR. 17 Figure It Out – Dangerous Curves Women’s Center of Jax, Jax 18 Ileana Fernandez, Piano-Latin American Music Friday Musicale, Jax 18 Mad Cowford Comedy 9th & Main, Jax 18 Oxygen Fridays-Spoken Word The Dark Room, Jax fined as a group of enthusiasts, formally organized 18 Martinifest MOCA, Jax under law, to produce and exhibit live performances 18 Friday Night Poetry Murray Hill Theatre, Jax of comedies, dramas, mysteries, musicals and other 18-FEB. 2 “The Ride Down Mount Morgan” ABET, Atlantic forms of live theatrical entertainment for the benefit Beach of their on-stage volunteers, off-stage members and audiences for the communities in which they oper- 18-MAR. 11 Contemporary Visual Translations Bethel ate. Actors are not paid in community theater. Gallery, Ponte Vedra John Zell, Manager of Grantmaking Services 19 Peter Max Special Exhibit & Sale R. Roberts Gallery, Jax 19 Unity Music Festival Metro Park, Jax 20 Mr. Jack Daniel’s Original Silver Cornet Band Flagler College, St. Augustine 22 Dancing With The Stars Veterans Arena, Jax 22 A Kiowa’s Odyssey: A Sketchbook From Ft. Marion Cummer Museum, Jax 23 House of Life JU Terry Concert Hall, Jax 24 In Remembrance of the Dream Performing Arts Center, Jax 24 Cast Iron Invitational FCCJ South Campus, Jax 25 Performances by Outstanding Young Pianists Friday Musicale, Jax 25 Mad Cowford Comedy 9th & Main, Jax 25-APRIL 6 North Florida Contemporary Collectors MOCA, Jax 26 Clay County All County Elementary Chorus Thrasher Horne Center, Orange Park 26 Meet Artist Peter Max 6-9pm R. Roberts Gallery, Jax 26 Mikolai Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival Flagler College, St. Augustine 26 Faculty Chamber Music JU Terry Concert Hall, Jax 26-27 Tribute To Arthur Miller Staged Reading of “After The Fall” St. Johns Cultural Center, St. Augustine 27 Meet Artist Peter Max Noon-3pm R. Roberts Gallery, Jax

FEBRUARY 1 Men of the Deeps-North America’s Only Coal Miners Chorus Thrasher Horne Center, Orange Park 1 The Talkies: Night of the Living Dead w/George Romero San Marco Theatre, Jax

eujacksonville.com | december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 25 THE JOCK

by tom weppel

Every year Avondale does their annual luminaries celebration. For years, I have heard about this event, about the hayrides that occur and the crowds of people. I understood that it was a fun time, but I had never participated in it. It seemed like some exclusive, “for the neighbors” type of thing. And also, we had our own dang luminaries that I could drive around and see. What is all that exciting or different between lit up (possibly inflamed) paper bags? Well, this year, I finally got an official invitation to partake in Avondale’s luminary extravaganza. Actually, I got two official invitations. And somehow, because my grandmother recently moved to the area, I Random thoughts from a cluttered mind... take his Giants into Tampa to face Jon Gruden (aka felt compelled to participate. ‘Chucky’) and the Buccaneers. New York gave the We parked at my grandma’s house around 5:45 and, armed in hand with wine and cookies, made our JAGUARS Patriots a great run last weekend, only to fall a little way to party numero uno. We walked through the park, the winding trails lined with luminaries. The air felt Congratulations to Jackie Del Rio and his boys, short. Tampa Bay has a great defense, assembled by like a crisp twenty degrees, so it really felt like the holidays and the walk warmed our veins. The luminaries who put together a great season, ending with an Monte Kiffin, and their offense is led by the veteran were beautiful. Somehow tea candles and paper bags can turn a street into a serene, angelic sort of place. 11-5 record. They are now back where they feel they QB Jeff Garcia. To me, both teams are simply incon- The appropriate oohs and ahhs were distributed among us. belong, which is in the NFL Playoffs, and they are sistent, and if you are a fan of either, you have been When we reached the strip of stores and restaurants on St. Johns Avenue, a small trickle of people ready to roll and make a statement. frustrated. There are times when the teams have had had already started to form. Horse drawn sleds [carriages] were beginning to roam the streets, looking for Things will start for the Jags on Saturday night, great outings, coming through with convincing victo- warm bodies to fill their seats. There were large black stallions and sweet, little white ponies. We passed the when they travel to Pittsburgh for a return engage- ries. Then, they fall apart, only to show us bad play, restaurants, the shops, the people on the street waiting for tables, and even a luminary in a wild, smothering ment with the Steelers. As you all may know, the leading to a loss. flame. Jags beat Pittsburgh, 29-22, back on December It will be interesting to see who makes the least We finally arrived at party number one: the street. A beautiful house sat on the edge of the strip, 16th. They did it with a solid running game and great amount of mistakes. The key player in this game covered in sparkling white lights and red, velvety ribbons. Adults filtered in and out of the house, between defense. These are two strengths Jacksonville will is Eli Manning. If Peyton’s brother can make things the chili and the cookies and the soups and the cakes. Tables adorned the front yard, while kids played in again carry into Pittsburgh, and the Steelers have happen, then New York will win. Whoever forces the street shouting at the slow trickle of people-filled trailers making their way down St. Johns. What I had a challenge, for sure, in trying to figure out how to turnovers will come away with a victory. assumed to be a sort of neighborly affair was shaping up to be quite the event. stop the Jags. The Tennessee Titans will finish off the week- We sat at the table, watching as more and more floats began to pass by. Extravagantly lit and In the past few weeks, a lot of national media end play, making a trip out to San Diego to face the decorated with Santas and inflatable Frosty Snowmen, as well as being loaded with chatty children pundits have hopped on the Jags’ bandwagon, Chargers, a team that has gotten their act together. chucking hard candies at targets (us), the floats started to fill the street little by little. suggesting they are a team that is strong yet totally On December 9th the Chargers went to Nashville Eventually, we moved on to party number two: the float. I dashed inside, grabbed a quick chicken overlooked. They feel Jacksonville has what it takes and beat the Titans, 23-17. And so this will be an finger and miniature quiche, poured some hot cider and put on my Santa’s hat. We climbed inside the trailer to win, and even possibly beat New England. But interesting contest. San Diego has been able to bring and laid blankets over the hay and then over our legs before making our way down St. John’s Avenue At before that happens, the Jags have to beat the Steel- things together, thanks to Norv Turner, the Chargers first, we were far away from the action. But as we drove, the cold winter air blasting our cheeks, we passed ers. If you are familiar with the way the NFL works, will be a tough outfit. They should be able to handle hordes of cars and trucks and trailers whose occupants screamed “Merry Christmas” at us with smiles you know it is VERY difficult to beat the same team Jeff Fisher and his band of Titans. and waves. Occasionally, a peppermint would fly through the air and (hopefully) land gently in the hay by TWICE at their place. our feet, avoiding our heads and extremities. The closer we got, the more people and trailers and Christmas And that’s what the Jags will have to do. COLLEGE FOOTBALL lights we saw. The Steelers have had some problems as of I didn’t want to bore you, talking about all the One trailer blasted Christmas Karaoke loudly into the street. Another had rocking chairs and benches late. QB Ben Roethlisberger is banged up. All-Pro totally meaningless Bowl games that have been filling its space. Some were decked out with lights strung high into the sky and others had taken the seat RB Willie Parker is out, and that has severely limited played. Do you realize that 31 Bowl games have out of a car and strapped themselves into that. the running game. Standout DE Aaron Smith has been played, all for absolutely NO REASON? There is We laughed as the air chilled our faces and hands. We collected candies that had bounced off our also been missed, and SS Troy Polamalu has had only ONE GAME that carries any meaning, and it will heads and popped them into our mouths. We waved and laughed with the people around us. How had I not persistent knee swelling. For the Jags to win this be played on Monday the 7th in the Superdome, as done this before? I had known about it for years, but this time, illuminated by the luminaries, I realized that game, they must continue with their strong ground LSU will face Ohio State for the right to be called the this is something we should all partake in. Just come and stand in the streets, or drive a trailer from the game, allow QB David Garrard to make the throws to National Champion. beaches, or hop on board a horse drawn carriage. However you do it, don’t let this very merry Jacksonville his receivers, play strong defense as usual, and, no We all saw the Buckeyes get their ass kicked experience float on by next year. matter what, DO NOT ALLOW TURNOVERS! If they last year by the Gators. Ohio State has had a horrible do that the Jags will move on to the next round. If time trying to deal with the SEC in the postseason. not, then it could get messy. We’ll see. Their record to date is 0-8. And so Jim Tressel must make sure he’s got his troops ready to go to face a NFL PLAYOFFS pretty formidable Tiger team. It will be up to Buckeye This weekend there will be three other games QB Todd Boeckman to make plays, as well as RB played. We’ll start off in Seattle where the Seahawks Beanie Wells. They O-Line must stop the LSU D-Line will host the Redskins, a team that has made a very up front, which includes DL Glenn Dorsey. LSU QB nice run and is coming on strong. Joe Gibbs has Matt Flynn is a solid QB, and RB Jacob Hester is gotten his boys in line, and with the help of backup one of a slew of good backs for LSU. The Tigers are QB Todd Collins, Washington is certainly a team that favored to win this one, and they will feel at home in Seattle should be very leery of. Washington has a New Orleans. I’d like LSU to win, further frustrating very good shot of going out West and picking up a Big Ten followers. win. Of course people forget that Seattle was in the Super Bowl only a couple of years ago. They are a Tom Weppel talks trash with Greg Larson, Lonnie formidable group and will be tough to play. Marts, Eugene Chung, Artis Gilmore, and Ron Du- On Sunday, we’ll see our friend Tom Coughlin guay on SportsAvengers.com 24/7.

26 december 27, 2007 - january 9, 2008 | entertaining u newspaper nascar news & notes by RICHARD TEAGUE [email protected] Did you get that extra special gift that you Money in 2008 than in 2007! My reader Melinda where hoping for? Did you give that extra special gift calls Mr. France “Baby Brian.” Poor ol’ BB will cash to the one that deserved it? Did you eat more than in this year, ain’t no doubt about it. you did on Thanksgiving, since there was an extra Juan Pablo Montoya’s is probably resolving to day this holiday? What with New Year’s parties and take more English classes and to get his green card New Year’s Eve celebrations then the next Wednesd- revalidated. I sure hope so because he’s going to day to start all over again, it’s real tough not to stuff be one of my drivers this year. I hope he makes one yourself this time of year. Were there enough treats, about finding a new team to drive for. Then there’s like cookies, fudge, and rum cake? My wife, Ann, Joe and Sterling, they’re making one about tighter along with our granddaughter, Jennifer, spend two or contracts and less fine print and to NEVER EVER three days making things. They’ll make four or five stay at a Ginn Resort. Why I even made that one different kinds of fudge, like white chocolate, choco- myself! I bet Mark Martin is working on one about late with peppermint, or butterscotch (not on of my seeing just how many different teams he can drive favorites). for before he really does retire. Martin Truex Jr. and Then there’s this stuff that’s like peanut but- Paul Menard both are doing a resolution on work- ter rolled up in pure sugar that gets me so high I ing with the Old Man. They really are going to learn think I got a hold of some Columbian gold. There’s something from him. On Mrs. E, I can’t think what chocolate-covered cherries and cookies with rum she might make but it could be something on the cakes that she has to make so that she can send lines of a Junior voodoo doll, oh wait, I think that one to here brother, wherever he is at Christmas. was a Christmas gift, wasn’t it? Ann’s so nice that she’ll make one for me mate Pete Kyle Busch will resolve to never believe or trust and his wife Deb in Australia. I’ll send it to them, but Richard Hendrick again, or any owner for that mat- it takes a while to clear Aussie customs. It should ter. That’s got to be his resolution. Tony Stewart’s get through with only a piece or two missing. Yeah, should be to learn to speak Japanese, or at least these desserts are like landmines for a diabetic like how to say: “it needs more power or I ain’t driving myself, but I take a couple of extra pills and drink it,” in Japanese. Now I know what Michael Waltrip’s nothing but Diet Pepsi and it counteracts the good will be: not to put any kind of foreign substance stuff somewhat (yeah right). in the intake of his car at Daytona this year. And I I wish I could tell y’all about my holidays and know another one about no more dumb NAPA com- what I got and what I gave, but it’s like this: my pub- mercials with Dale and that Bubba Genie. I know lisher Will told me on Monday, when I turned in my Dale Jarrett is going to keep his this year, the one article, that I had to do another soon. I didn’t think he about only six, only six races. You know what would meant this soon, so I’m writing this one before New be weird, Rusty Wallace, Kyle Petty, Dale Jarrett Year’s gets here and that’s why I can’t tell you about and Ricky Rudd in the booth for a TV network this mine, but I know it will be a nice celebration with the season. It’ll be weird in a good way. They could have family and friends. Now what kind of resolutions did guest drivers like the ones that didn’t qualify, but y’all make? I’ll tell you mine and you pick out the then Waltrip would be a regular and that ain’t no fair. ones you agree with. I know, these are just my ideas of resolutions My first and main one was to stop smoking! some guys and gals could make, but you know Heck I’ve been smoking since I was 10-years old they’re making some kind and who’s to say that I’m and this will be a tough one to keep. I ain’t ever kept that far off? Not only these people, but NA$CAR and it before, but there’s always a chance. How bout the Kentucky Speedway should make one about resolv- D word or the E word? I really do want to Diet and ing the dang suit. I think Bruton Smith should go on Exercise, but gosh that’s hard. What about the E and and buy the darn thing, no not Kentucky, NA$CAR! R words. I know if I Eat Right, I’ll feel 10 times better, Well, I’ll work hard on my resolutions and but at my age I guess the L word takes over: Lazi- you hard on yours. I know we can do it together. ness. I’ll make about 6 or 8 resolutions and if I can Although Will hasn’t resolved my contract yet, when just keep 2 or 3 that will be great, as long as they’re he’s in the holiday spirit I’m going to tell him: play important ones. I hope that the ones you make are me, pay me or (darn it) trade me! If you got some- good ones and that you keep them all. I’ll pray for thing to add, you know where to send it. And ya both of us. I wonder what kind of resolutions some better know by now: If it ain’t NA$CAR, It ain’t s**t! of them fellers in NA$CAR will make and if they will HAPPY NEW YEAR YOU ALL! be able to keep ‘em. Since it’s pick-on-Brian-France-month I think I’ll start with him. I got one he might make: not to change a single thing about NA$CAR this year. No rule changes, no tweaking the Chase format. And how about keeping out of the owner/sponsor rela- tionships? Oh, I know, he did so good last year (and I hope for his sake he can keep it up this year), no more drinking and driving. Here’s one that will not really be a resolution but a sure thing: Make More

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