JACKSONVILLE

foodfood loverslovers Dinner for two under $25 | Thanksgiving Made Easy | Jacksonville Fair | Latino Film Fest free monthly guide to entertainment and more | november 2008 | www.eujacksonville.com 2 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly contents 6

4-7 14

on the cover home Model: M. Anna Stephenson, Anna feature page 22 netscapades can be reached for modeling jobs at pages 4-7 holiday meal tips page 23 notes from the bachelor pad [email protected]. page 8-9 dining out for under $25 Photographer: Daniel Goncalves, page 10-11 second harvest food bank Daniel is a local professional music photographer covering stories and dish page 26 rusty young of poco interview subjects around the world. He is page 27 jason michael carroll page 12 chef rock available for all your photography page 28 cafe 11 trunk show needs. DanielGoncalves.com. page 13 sustainable seafood page 28-32 music events Location: Private home of Karen page 14 primi piatti page 29 justin townes earle Farrish page 15 dish update + events Art Direction / Styling: Rachel page 33 river city band Henley and Erin Thursby visual arts theatre & culture page 16 art events page 34 all shook up at the alhambra page 17 salute to the troops arts fest page 35 theatre events eu staff page 17 emergence managing director Shelley Henley family movies creative director page 36-37 latino fi lm fest Rachel Best Henley page 18 family events page 38-39 movies + special showings senior writer food editor page 19 holiday events Rick Grant Erin Thursby page 21 walking with dinosaurs interview specialty features Jon Bosworth page 24-25 greater jacksonville fair contributing photographers Daniel Goncalves A.M. Stewart

contributing writers Kellie Abrahamson Troy Spurlin november 08 food lovers issue Brenton Crozier Eric Staniford Daniel Goncalves Katherine Stevens Dick Kerekes A.M. Stewart 36-37 Jennifer McCharen Tom Weppel

Published by EU Jacksonville Newspaper. P.O. Box 11959, Jacksonville, FL 32239. Copyright 2008. Repro- duction of any artwork or copy prepared by EU Jack- sonville is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for errors and/ or omissions, the Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to info@ entertainingu.com. We cannot assume responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. For in- formation concerning advertising phone 904-730-3003 or email [email protected]. 19

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 3 foodfood loverslovers Thanksgiving. Christmas. It’s the time of year when food is brought to the fore, from hoilday meals to school bake sales. So this month we’ve devoted our feature to food. Mostly we write about what you can fi x for your upcoming holiday feasts (sassy side, anyone?) but when when you’re too tired to cook and your budget is low, we’ve also got you covered in our dinner for two under $25 article. We’re sure you’ll fi nd some- thing to carry you through the holidays and beyond. Bon appetit! photos by daniel goncalves

4 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly llazyazy hholidayoliday mmealeal by erin thursby Saving money is fabulous, but what if your time is worth more to you than saving a few dollars here and there? In this case, Jacksonville has lots of options for making your meal conve- nient. Plenty of your favorite restau- rants offer holiday take-away meals; you need only ask and arrange for it ahead of time. Here are just six of the places where you can carry a meal away or have a meal brought to you.

michelle’s southern home cooking Really, there are only so many stovetops in your kitchen. With all the sides you’re expected to offer at a holiday meal, you’d have to start cooking at least a day before. I know I do! Michelle’s takes some of the pressure away by offering southern-style home cooked options hholidayoliday ddinnersinners such as collards and black-eyed peas. They hholidayoliday ddinnersinners aren’t open Thanksgiving Day, but picking your side up the day before isn’t a big deal. More than 270 orders for their squash casserole holiday meals on the cheap were placed the day before Thanksgiving last year. They’re known for their side items and Its time again for the most expensive meals of the year. While there isn’t anything like tucking into a holiday meal, it can their marvelous pies. Call 353-0002 for more info. be a real strain on the pocketbook. Here are a few tips on saving a bit of green for a frugal feast. by erin thursby bogetta di bella sara / have everyone pitch in make what you can ahead of time catering by liz Start a new tradition and ask everyone to bring a particular dish. If fes- Feeling really ambitious with lots of freezer space? Then why not look Catering by Liz does offer full service catering, tivities are at your house just take care of the bulky items, such as the bird, for deals on fresh produce items that you know will keep in the freezer once but there’s only a slim chance you’ll be able and let everyone else worry about the rest. This might not work if everyone is you’ve cooked them. Casseroles will keep, as will most rice, pasta and veggie to fi t into their booked calendar this holiday coming from out of town, but it is an option if everyone is living in the same dishes. Dairy-based sauces can get a bit lumpy and separate out some, so season. But cheer up, you can always pick up place. watch for that. items to bring home for your holiday feast at Basically, you don’t need to pass up a good deal on fresh sweet potatoes their take-away store, Bogetta di Bella Sera. just because you have two weeks before the big meal. Buy it, cook it in a cas- Calling in advance helps a lot, so they can set shop for the christmas meal a month serole, freeze it and thaw for your holiday meal. Sweet potatoes, by the way, things aside for you. If you’ve got just 2 or 3 can only be frozen if they are cooked fi rst, otherwise they lose their fl avor and people at your holiday table, or you want a early develop a rock solid core. different option, try the Whole Marinated Pork Shopping for food the day after Thanksgiving does not help you for You can also dry out leftover bread to make your breadcrumbs ahead of Tenderloin with Au Jus and Cilantro Crème Thanksgiving, but it will help you for that Christmas meal. Turkey keeps quite time. Our family is mostly bread-free, so this doesn’t make sense for us, but if Fraiche at $15. You can serve 8-10 people with well in the freezer. An uncooked turkey can actually keep for an entire year in your family goes through lots of bread, you can dry it out in the oven to make their gourmet-style dishes, like their Artichoke the freezer. You can keep it in there even longer than that. It’s still safe to eat breadcrumbs. Parmesan Souffl é or Olive Oil Roasted Brussels even after a couple of years, but it won’t be as tasty. Prices on turkey should Sprouts with Apple Smoked Bacon and Shal- be much lower the day after the big feast. Provided you have room in your lots, to name a few. Each are about $15-25. A freezer, it’s a no-brainer. to the farmer’s market! whole, boneless turkey, which feeds from 12- Look for sales on canned goods you’ll know you’ll use and always look For fresh produce, the farmer’s market is actually cheaper, plus you can 15 people will cost you about $100. Items are at the expiration dates, no matter how good the deal! haggle with the vendors. Do price out what you’re buying at the supermarket available for pickup November 24-26, 9 am – 6 Since turkey keeps, you can also start shopping for it in October or early before you hit the framer’s market, that way you’ll know how good of a deal pm in disposable containers. Call 387-1955 for November for that Thanksgiving meal. The deals won’t be as good, but they you’re getting. My advice is to take your time and never buy the fi rst thing you more info or to order for pick up. might be better than the prices just before Thanksgiving, when demand is see. There will most likely be another vendor with the same item at a lower high. price. You’ll fi nd almost everything you’re looking for (and then some) at the farmer’s market. maggiano’s Whatever way you save this holiday meal, just know that your meal will This is a commercial chain with an Italian bent, start shopping now and be be just as good if not better. How little you spent will be your happy holiday but they offer the full enchilada, so to speak. secret. They can deliver the entire holiday feast right to disciplined! your door with the means to keep it warm. For Look for loss leaders when you’re clipping coupons. Loss leaders are Just three of the area farmer’s markets. Check the websites for hours and Thanksgiving Day they ask that you call about items in the store designed to bring people into the store for the great bargain. availability. one week in advance to place your order. Cost The store actually expects to lose money on a loss leader item, but they fi gure - Jacksonville Farmer’s Market will vary depending on what you order. They it’s worth it, because once you’re in the store you’ll buy other things, more 1810 West Beaver St., jaxfarmersmarket.com set it up and there aren’t any dishes to wash, than making up for their loss. Don’t fall for it! - Jacksonville Flea and Farmers Market because it’s all in disposable dishes. Every- Instead, come in only for the loss leader you planned to buy. Also, do 614 Pecan Park Rd., waymarking.com/waymarks/WM3V2K thing, from turkey and ham to sweet potatoes not buy in bulk simply because something is a good deal. You aren’t saving - Beach Boulevard Flea and Farmers Market and greens can be ordered from Maggiano’s. any money if you aren’t going to use the item in question. 11041 Beach Blvd., beachboulevardfl eamarket.com Call 380-4360 and ask for Chef Muller. » » continues on page 8 » eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 5 lazy holiday meal

ssweetweet ccheatsheats The holidays seem to beg for culinary indulgence. And yet we sometimes want a way to cut down on our sugar intake. After a day of heavy starches sometimes it’s best that we keep sugar low for dessert. Whether you’re diabetic or you just want to cut your sugar intake, here are a few ideas (and one caution). These suggestions are sugar conscious, but still indul- gent. by erin thursby

hiding the splenda-cheesecake Cheesecake is one of the few desserts wherein a sugar substitute can be used without such an annoying aftertaste. The cream cheese really tamps down Splenda. For diabetics or those who can’t have sugar, this is a perfect choice. Go to the Splenda website or look for the recipe on the back of a bag.

a diabetic’s nightmare, or dream-pecan pie There is no such thing as a low sugar pecan pie. Even when made with the Splenda recipe, the Karo syrup pushes the gycelmic index way up. Simply put, if you’re eating a low sugar version of pecan pie, you’re consuming about as much sugar as you would if you were eating a slice of conventional pie or even cake. The regular version has anywhere from two to three times the amount you can find in other desserts. Simply put, pecan pie is the most sugar-laden dessert you can find.

not too sweet-banana bread Banana bread can be an excellent base for a dessert. Opt for more bananas and less sugar, or no sugar at all, and top with low sugar or no sugar ice cream. Or, for something sweeter but without adding white sugar, you can add in small cubed pieces apples, pears and any other fruit you de- sire.

a sugar-free pudding base There are any number of easy pies and desserts you can make with a great sugar-free pudding as base. You can make a sugar free bread-pudding by using sugar-free ready made pudding to bind it together. I like adding a little more water or milk to whatever they recommend in the mix, because your bread is what adds bulk to the pudding. You can make a splendid no-bake layered dessert with pudding, cream cheese and no sugar whipped topping.

simply put, simple fruits Go natural sugar when you can. Fruit is sweet. You might not need as much sugar as you think. Whip up some heavy cream with the barest amount of sugar and serve fresh, chilled strawberries or raspberries.

6 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly the preparation. If you choose to boil your cobs, throw in a few teaspoons of sugar or some honey to make sweet corn even sweeter. Believe it or not, adding milk to your boiling water also helps bring out the corn’s natural sweetness. One thing you should avoid adding to your water is salt, which llazyazy hholidayoliday tends to dry out the kernels, making them overly chewy. When grilling, soak the corn, husks and all, in water for about 30 minutes to keep them from » (continued) burning. Just before laying the ears on the grill, peel back some of the husk mmealeal and tuck some fresh herbs inside (rosemary is particularly good) for some extra fl avor. Once your corn is cooked, the culinary sky is the limit. Stick with butter, terry’s kitchen salt and pepper or experiment with the herbs and spices in your pantry. Pa- If you like to keep a local fl avor to your meals, prika, garlic butter, cayenne pepper, mustard, Old Bay, grated cheese and lime go with Terry’s Kitchen. Basically, they make juice are just a few ways you can season your ears, but really, any spice, the meal, you heat it up in your kitchen. herb or sauce will work in harmony with those yummy yellow kernels. Because many items are freshly made, then frozen, that means you can plan your meal cranberry sauce in advance and stock your freezer. The good news? It’ll still taste fresh and homemade. If ssassyassy ssidesides Another incredibly versatile dish served at most holiday tables is also you want something specifi c, just call Terry one of the most commonly overlooked. Cranberry sauce is often served in herself and they can have it for you ahead of Most would agree the turkey is the crown jewel of any can-shaped gelatinous blob form, which is a shame since it’s super easy to time. Calling ahead can be important during make and a lot of fun to experiment with. A cup of sugar, a cup of water and holiday meal. This year give the bird a run for its money the rush of the holidays. They still have plenty four cups of fresh cranberries is all it takes to make a very basic sauce in in their freezers that you can pick up, such and kick your traditional sides up a notch with these ter- no time fl at. But throwing in other complimentary fl avors can turn this turkey as their popular chicken veggie pie, their bow trimming treat into a star of its own. Orange slices, raisins, apple chunks and tie pasta, lasagna, classic mac and cheese rifi c (and tasty) tips. by kellie abrahamson apricots all add a gourmet twist to standard sauce. My particular favorite ad- and more. For an easy but classy choice, go dition is pomegranate arils, which add a nice little burst of fl avor to the dish. with their fi sh in foil. Head on over to 4218 St. Like sweet potatoes, your cranberry sauce doesn’t have to be sweet. Johns Ave., or call 388-1743. sweet potatoes Add some Latin fl avor to your Thanksgiving table and make a cranberry salsa instead. Combine a 12 ounce bag of fresh cranberries with some cilantro, Sweet potatoes are an extremely versatile holiday staple from prepara- green onions, a seeded jalapeno pepper, lime juice and a pinch of salt in a matthew’s market tion to toppings. Mixing fruits and other veggies into your sweet potato souffl é food processor and chop to a medium consistency. Serve this with your tur- can really add something special to the table. There are several fruits that Matthew’s is more than just a gourmet restau- key or even chips and enjoy waves of compliments for both taste and creativ- rant, they’re also a separate gourmet market blend well with the spuds, like bananas, apples, pineapples or peaches. The ity. fruits add natural sugars to your dish, making it healthier for your guests. For and lunch stop with everything from wines and an even more calorie-conscience option, replace some of your sweet potatoes cheeses to the fi nest meats. But it’s the take- green veggies away food that has had folks doing a happy with pumpkin or summer squash. Your family will never be able to taste the It seems like every holiday table I’ve had the pleasure of sitting around difference but their waistlines will thank you. dance. This season they’ll have a holiday has either had collard greens or green bean casserole with no other green menu you can order from. Call 398-6676 or For many people, sweet potato casserole wouldn’t be complete without a veggies in sight. While these are perfectly fi ne sides, it doesn’t hurt to mix bunch of marshmallows melted on top. Change things up this year by adding go by their location at 2103 San Marco Blvd. things up with something different every couple of years. Take some time and to see what they have in store. some crunch to your usual topping. A mixture of crushed corn fl akes, brown give thanks for other veggies this holiday season. Start by taking a peek at sugar and butter add some bite to the dish. You can also try mixing in pecans some of the vegetables you don’t normally serve. Artichokes are a rarity at my or coconut fl akes for an extra treat. If you simply can’t do without marshmal- house so steaming up a few for our Thanksgiving table would make the meal native sun market lows, do both! Sprinkle your crunchy topping and your marshmallows in extra special. Asparagus, bok choy, edamame and okra are other “occasional” If you’re a vegan, vegetarian or have other alternating rows for a side that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. veggies that you may want to consider in addition to traditional holiday sides. specifi c dietary requirements that make the Most people choose to serve their sweet potatoes with plenty of brown If you can’t live without your green beans and collards, try serving them fat-saturated season a bit annoying, talk to sugar, making it almost dessert-like. But sweet potatoes can be just as deli- in different ways. Instead of a casserole, make little bundles of beans by the guys behind the counter at Native Sun cious when they’re savory. Do an internet search for “savory sweet potatoes” wrapping a slice of bacon around a few fresh green beans and sautéing them Market. They might have something in their and you’ll fi nd plenty of yummy-sounding recipes worth trying this holiday over medium heat. Admittedly, I wouldn’t change a thing about my family’s case you can take home, or they might be able season. I was particularly drawn to one called “Spicy Sweet Potato Gratin” collard greens recipe (boiled to perfection with a ham hock- yum!), but I to suggest something for you to cook. There (found at bigoven.com) which mixed the tubers with heavy cream and chipot- would be open to topping my serving with something other than vinegar, like are two Native Sun locations, but the one at les and was topped with Gruyere cheese. onions, tomatoes or even salsa. Baymeadows and 9A has a larger, more exten- sive deli case. Call 519-2997 to see what will corn on the cob Little changes here and there to your standard holiday menu can really be in their case close to the holidays and what Few people realize the experimentation potential in corn on the cob. Most make the difference between a ho-hum meal and something worthy of the cel- you can order ahead of time. See the Dish just throw some ears on the grill or in a pot on the stove and call it a day. But ebration. Take some chances in the kitchen this holiday season and add some Update for more! with a few tweaks, corn can yield plenty of fl avorful surprises, beginning with sass to your sides. You may just stumble upon a new favorite family recipe.

tturkeyurkey ttipsips -- If you’ve forgotten to thaw your bird, don’t waste the time, because you can cook from frozen. -- Cook stuffi ng separately instead of stuffi ng your bird. The temperature and amount of time you’d have to cook your bird in order to make the stuffi ng safe to eat will dry out your bird. Use the turkey drippings to give your stuffi ng a great fl avor.

-- Cooked turkey will last about one month when frozen for leftover meals. If you’ve got last minute questions regarding your turkey, call the Butterball Turkey Hotline at (800) 323-4848 or (800) Butterball. Automated assistance is available after 4 pm on Thanksgiving Day.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 7 their Dessert Mini Tastings, wherein you choose three mini-desserts for only $6. Thai Tea Crème Brulee, Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu and the various sherbets they offer make for a stunning end to your repast. 3820 Southside Blvd. - 646-1478

european street There’s a sandwhich for you somewhere on the dinner menu at European Street. There has to be, because they offer over 100 sandwhiches in one form or another, as wraps, pitas and croissant sandwiches and just plain sandwhiches. Where else can I or- der a liverwurst sandwhich? If you aren’t into the sandwhich, there’s always their humongous salads and, of course, their famous beer cheese soup. for two They also serve Middle Eastern foods along with a hearty selection of German fare. A visit to E-Street would not be complete without a stroll by the baked goods department (you have to, it’s right by the cash register), past their alluring and extensive se- lection of cakes and pies, ice cream treats and their irresistible, giant-sized, one-third of a pound cook- under ies. Each of their four locations boasts twenty draft beer taps and over 150 imported bottled beers. Riverside: 2753 Park St. - 384-9999 San Marco: 1704 San Marco Blvd. - 398-9500 Beach and University: 5500 Beach Blvd. - 398- 1717 Jacksonville Beach: 992 Beach Blvd. - 249-3001 $25 famous amos If the idea of grits swimming in butter, salted coun- photo by daniel goncalves try ham with red-eye gravy and buttermilk biscuits that would make Betty Crocker blush appeals Luxury is often best in small doses. You don’t always have to head to to you, their six Jacksonville locations are open 24/7/365. Where else can you go at 2 am? Taco TGI Friday’s if your dinner budget is under $30. Just because a place Hell or Krystal bombs? I think not. And they serve breakfast anytime – that’s hospitality. Entrees are looks expensive, doesn’t mean it has to be! the usual country fare: fried chicken, country-fried steak, fi sh, pork chops and sides like smothered When pondering where two diners can eat in Jacksonville for $25, cabbage, deep fried okra and black-eyes peas with fatback. I realized that you don’t have to be limited to casual dining. This does 1111 Cesery Blvd. - 744-1453 10339 San Jose Blvd. - 268-6159 include some casual places (like the ever-fabulous West Inn and barbecue 3911 University Blvd. W. - 731-2322 6315 San Juan Ave. - 786-4940 goodness of Mojos) but we also wanted to give our readers options at 8265 Normandy Blvd. - 786-2244 restaurants they wouldn’t normally expect to make a list like this. By no 342 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park - 272-7025 means is this an exhaustive list, but it can get you started if you have a small budget for dining out. by erin thursby

shrimp, goat cheese, baby spinach and sun dried abe’s pizza tomatoes are my two picks. 3558 St. Johns Ave. blue bamboo This Jacksonville favorite serves delicious gourmet - 387-2060 This white tablecloth fusion expe- pizzas as well as Italian-inspired fare including cal- rience doesn’t have to come with zones, pastas, parmigianas, subs, salads, desserts a white tablecloth price. They ac- and more. A little eclectic and totally hip, each res- bistro aix tually have some of the best sushi taurant is the place to enjoy a friendly atmosphere. You wouldn’t expect to walk away full for under $25 in town. If you don’t get the sushi Every item on Abe’s menu is reasonably priced at Bistro Aix, but it is possible. I’ve made a meal of menu, be sure to ask for it. Rolls and can easily feed a couple for well under $25. a cocktail and their outstanding French Onion Soup range from $5.50- 8.95. I love the abespizza.com - 4372 Southside Blvd. - 645-0460 ($7), which you can also order in a smaller size at ginger carrot personally. Most of - 12192 Beach Blvd. - 996-8858 just $4.50. If you stay away from the bottom half the regular menu doesn’t fall into of the menu and stick to the salads, wood-fi red the $25 for two price range, but pizzas and pastas, you’ll be able to come at $25 there are other options besides biscottis for the two of you. Order one personal pizza to split sushi on the menu. Noodles are Biscottis has become a Jacksonville classic, and and a small sized French Onion for each of you, also a cheap but scrumptious for good reason. There are plenty of entrées to be and you’ll squeak in just under budget. Wood-fi red choice at Blue Bamboo. The Thai had for under $10. Their specials are often more, pizzas under $16 include the scampi shrimp pesto Basil Risotto goes for $11.95. You but if you stick to the menu, you’ll be fi ne. Only pizza, sausage pizza, prosciutto goat cheese pizza, can also cut down on price even one entrée on their regular menu, the Skirt Steak mushroom and truffl e oil and three cheese with more by getting a half portion Salad ($10.50) comes in at over $10. Order two of your choice of tomatoes, goat cheese or pepperoni. where it’s offered. Adding meat is their personal gourmet pizzas for a great date meal. It’s a tight fi t budget-wise, but if you stick to water a little extra (about $3). Yummy Duck Confi t Pizza ($9) with carmelized onions and you’ll do fi ne! Otherwise just add a little more to salads and soups range from djion topped with parm and fi eld greens and the your budget for alcohol. 1440 San Marco Blvd. about $5- 10. Get one of their Sauteed Shrimp Pizza ($9.50), topped with rock - 398-1949 salads or soups and fi nish up with Blue Bamboo photo by linda blakely

8 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly Mojo Bar-B-Que

photo by erin thursby

la nopalera La Nopalera offers the most popular Mexican cuisine in town. Authentic, mildly flavored Mexican dishes can be complimented with a variety of hot sauces available, including their own special sauce (for sale online soon). It’s cheap and it’s a Jacksonville favorite. The usual combo dinners of fajitas, tacos, quesadillas and even vegetarian options can fill your plate and your belly. Also available is a Child’s Plate (all under $4) for kids under 12. And don’t leave without dessert. The flan at La Nopalera transports you back to Miami, to custard memories at small Cuban cafés. Save room for dessert, and savor the moment.

8818 Atlantic Blvd. - 720-0106 14333 Beach Blvd. - 992-1666 1631 Hendricks Ave. - 399-1768 8206 Phillips Hwy. - 732-9433 11700 San Jose Blvd. - 288-0175 mojo bar-b-que Like your “que” with some blues on the side? Mojo’s serves gigantic portions of tender pulled pork, fork tender turkey, smokehouse chicken, ribs, catfish and shrimp. It couldn’t get any fresher with all their sides, from collard greens and hand-cut French fries to their garlic cheddar grits and sweet potato mash made daily from scratch right in their kitchen. For dessert there’s the homemade banana pudding and peanut butter pie. The Beaches location showcases live performances from some of the nation’s top name traveling blues artists.

Mojo BAR-B-QUE – “A Southern Blues Kitchen”: 1607 University Blvd. W. - 732-7292 Mojo Kitchen – “BBQ Pit and Blues Bar”: 1500 Beach Blvd. - 247- 6636 Mojo Smokehouse – BBQ & Blues: 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island - 264-0636 orsay Orsay is swanky to be sure, but it is possible for two to eat there for under $25 by selecting your menu items carefully. If you’re looking for a little luxury and you’re willing to share, Orsay could be right for you and your budget. Some of the appetizers are hearty enough that you could order two and get out for under $25. As to the entrées, most are in the $20 range, but there’s no split plate charge at Orsay (they proudly state that they are “anti-split plate charge”). Order up the generous Prince Edward Island Mussels, with a side of upscale fries and share it at just $17. There’s a hearty Shepard’s Pie for the same price, or you can split the Coq Au Vin ($20), a red wine braised chicken served with wild mush- rooms, bacon and buttered pasta. There are wines available for $5 a glass if you want to spend a little extra on vino. 3630 Park St. - 381-0909 primi piatti While there is a small split plate charge at Primi Piatti, the portions are large and hearty enough to split. Check out our review on page 14. west inn Casual neighborhood dining and gargantuan portions typify this mex-mix Southwestern-style restau- rant. They’re not afraid to experiment with cheeses and cross-cultural flavors either. The best value on the menu is the Five Treasure Chicken ($13.50). You’ll never be able to finish it in one sitting, at least no one I know who’s tried it has. Split this entrée and you’ll even have money left over to buy an appe- tizer and a beer! Most entrée items range from about $8- 15. 3644 St. Johns Ave. - 389-1131

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 9 harvests for hunger The Second Harvest Food Bank of North Florida by katherine stevens

There’s a hidden epidemic in the United States. It strikes every age group and every ethnicity. It’s hunger. 38 percent of all Jacksonville children live in low-income homes (where income is below 200 percent of federal poverty level.) So, when it comes time to decide between rent and groceries the rent wins. Or between gas and groceries, what do you think will win? Right now our country is facing some of its most challenging days. As our country is plagued with questions of the economy, questions as to whether there will be food on the table plague many in our community. The Second Harvest Food Bank of North Florida is suffering through it all. Since 1979 their mission has been to reduce hunger in the community by creating partnerships with nonprofi t organizations. They distribute food to member agencies in the community including soup kitchens, food pantries, senior citizens groups, nonprofi t daycares, youth programs, residential facilities and many others. With food demands at an all-time high, the trickling donations just aren’t providing the safety net that they’re so photo by daniel goncalves accustomed to. In one year The Second Harvest Food Bank moves approximately 7 million pounds of food which translates into about 20,000 meals per day. But in August, donations to the food bank were down by 30 percent. Shelves at the Jessie Street facility were scarce, and the 515 member agencies (in 18 counties) that depend on those resources were forced to go without. Some of those agencies include the Salvation Army, the Salzbacher Center and the Clara White Mission; whom supply the food to those in need. “It was pretty sudden,” Second Harvest Communications Manager Tom Strother said. “Over the course of this calendar year we’ve seen an increase in people needing food, so the demand is up for our services. But August’s decrease was hard to swallow.” In September, designated as Hunger Action Month, local grocery giant Winn-Dixie stepped up to the plate. Aware of our country and community’s constant struggle against hunger, they donated 43,000 pounds of nonperishable food to Second Harvest. The retail value of it all- almost it’s weight in gold. “Winn-Dixie was very helpful,” says Strother. “The products were tremendous, like hearty soups, which can create a balanced meal. But it all went quickly, it didn’t take long to utilize the products, about a week later they were gone.” But the buck didn’t stop there. During the month of September Winn-Dixie placed collection barrels in all 44 stores of its stores in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. “Buy One Get One” and “10 for $10” promotions enabled shoppers to make low-cost contributions. And other local businesses joined in to help. They were accepting food donations at VyStar Credit Union (all 22 of its Jacksonville branches) and Curves (3 of its Jacksonville branches.) And the giving spirit continues. Each fall the Jacksonville Jaguars partner with Winn-Dixie to host a family food drive (and this year marks its 14th year!) From October 21st to November 23rd all 44 stores will have collection barrels. Then on November 23rd, when the Jacksonville Jaguars take on the Minnesota Vikings at 1 pm, it will culminate into a food drive at the stadium, encouraging fans

10 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly to bring canned products/non-perishables to the game – an easy way for people to contribute. and money donations help, but lending a hand can be priceless. “One of the big things for people But giving food isn’t the only way to donate. On November 18th the Second Harvest Food Bank who can’t donate money is to encourage them to donate time at the food bank,” says Strother. “The of North Florida will host its 24th annual Empty Bowls Luncheon. Every year it serves to create opportunities are plenty.” awareness of hunger in our community. Up to 1,500 people are expected to come together at the Prime Osborn Convention Center Downtown from noon to 1 pm. As each person enters they are information served a simple meal in a craft artisan bowl, which is a take-home gift! Local celebrities serve the meals while local school and community groups perform during this heartfelt luncheon. It’s a chance 24th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon for our community to face the problem, instead of turning a cheek. Every dollar raised goes directly Tuesday, November 18 from noon to 1 pm at Prime Osborn Convention Center. to the food bank. And for every dollar that’s donated Second Harvest can recover $53 worth of food. Individual tickets are $25 More than 260,000 people in the 18-county area served by Second Harvest, live below the federal Call 739-7074 for more information or visit wenourishhope.org poverty level. And the scary part is that nearly 47 percent of the families that are served by Second Harvest have one or more adults who are working. 14th Annual Jacksonville Jaguars Family Food Drive As the season of giving approaches, the need for contribution is never-ending. Not only do food Sunday, November 23rd, at 1 pm at Alltel Stadium

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 11 signature chefs auction gala

March of Dimes benefi t bash featuring

celebrity Chef Rock by erin thursby

What: March of Dimes Signature Chefs Gala be appearing on Thursday, No- When: November 13 at 5:30- 9 pm vember 13 at the Jacksonville Where: Jacksonville Marriott Marriott. His own experience with It’s been over a year since Chef Rahman the birth of children has bol- “Rock” Harper won over the fierce competi- stered his support for March tion in Hell’s Kitchen. Besides running his of Dimes. Says Chef Rock, restaurant since leaving the show, he’s been “Empathy is something else. giving back when he can. As the slogan on You don’t realize how devastat- his website says, he’s “changing the world, ing or rewarding something one chive at a time.” can be until you’re actually in Right now he’s touring with the March of it…It’s really helped out a lot to Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, where he’ll actually think that I could help someone directly.” Chef Rock won’t be the only Chef at the event. Patrons can also expect local celebrity chefs such as Tom Gray of Bistro AIX, Matthew Medure of Matthews Restaurant and Tyler Brock of Aqua Grill, just to name a few. So far Chef Rock says he’s experienced “wonderful chefs, or by calling 398-2821. The 2008 Signature some great food excellent wines great com- Chef’s Auction is sponsored by Winn Dixie, pany” at the Auctions. Spohrer & Dodd, THE PLAYERS Champion- Each of the local chefs will have tasting ship, Wachovia, Keith Pierson Toyota and The stations. A live and silent auction for exclu- Kossak Companies. sive packages will be part of the fun. The March of Dimes is the foremost non- Auction Packages at the Signature Chefs Auc- profit association for baby health and healthy tion Gala: pregnancy. March of Dimes works nationwide Wine Country Holiday: Fly away to the beau- to improve the health of babies by preventing tiful Healdsburg Hotel and enjoy VIP tours and birth defects, premature birth and infant mor- tastings in Napa Valley. tality. For the latest resources and info, visit Hollywood Smile: Perfect your smile with a marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org. cosmetic dentistry makeover. Signature Chefs events have raised A Hunter’s Dream: Enjoy an all-inclusive trip almost $100 million for March of Dimes to the most luxurious wing shooting destina- programs of research, community service, tion in North America, South Dakota’s Torrey education and advocacy for babies since its Lake. inception in 1989, including $15 million last Va Va Va Voom!: Beat high gas prices, go year. green and travel in style on your new 2008 “It’s a great time, a great event going for Vespa LX 50. a great cause, so I’m proud to be a part of Timeless Treasure: 20x24 portrait by world it,” says Chef Rock “I can use something as renowned artist, Ann Manry Kenyon, who has small as food to save a life or improve a life. captured the likeness of some of America’s That’s powerful.” best known politicians and sports legends. Not only that, but an ordinary person Vegas Vacation: Hit the jackpot with a stay at longing for a gourmet evening can help save the Pallazio Hotel, including airfare, dinner at lives too—just by buying a ticket and enjoy- Wolfgang Puck’s and tickets to Jersey Boys. ing themselves! Island Getaway: Escape for 1 week with your Tickets are $150 each and can be pur- closest friends to a private villa on the exotic chased by visiting marchofdimes.com/florida island of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.

12 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly from edf.org sustainable seafood by jennifer mccharen

Celebrating holidays in Jacksonville typically means welcoming family and friends from out of town. If they’re coming from inland, they’re probably excited to taste some fresh Florid- ian seafood. We have long been told of the many health benefi ts of eating fi sh, especially the brain- enhancing power of Omega-3 fatty acids. Unfortunately, many popular species are desperately overfi shed these days, making seafood one of the least sustainable meat choices around. Sus- tainable seafood is seafood from either fi shed or farmed sources that can maintain or increase production in the future without jeopardizing the ecosystems from which it was acquired. Even farm-raised fi sh are problematic. Poorly managed farms can release toxic amounts of fi sh waste and feed into surrounding waterways, in addition to antibiotics and live fi sh that can become invasive. Also, choice farmed fi sh are fed huge quantities of wild-caught fi sh, such as anchovies and mackerel. This means, in the words of the Environmental Defense Fund: “Glob- ally, roughly three pounds of wild fi sh are used to produce each pound of farmed salmon. Typi- cal salmon farming therefore puts pressure on wild fi sh populations, rather than supplementing them.” Thankfully the EDF, working with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, publishes a thorough guide to choosing sustainable seafood, and there are plenty of delicious, healthful options available here in town. At the Publix in Riverside, the global nature of the fi sh industry was apparent with just a little bit of label searching. In the fresh fi sh display there were Canadian lobsters, Costa Rican Kingklip, Ecuadorian Tilapia, and shrimp from Thailand. In bags, frozen, were more well-trav- eled creatures. Swordfi sh and Basa from Vietnam, and Mahi from Peru. At the top of the list for environmental kindness (and available fresh at Publix for $3.49/lb), is none other than the lowly catfi sh. As long as you’re purchasing catfi sh that is farm-raised in the United States, you can rest assured that you are making a wise choice. Regulations on fi sh farms in this country are strong, and catfi sh are vegetarian. The rest of the fi sh in the “fresh” counter here are not good options. Second-best at Publix are the frozen, bagged, sockeye and coho salmons, wild-caught in the US. If you don’t have time to do the fi sh detective work yourself, head to Native Sun natural market (Baymeadows location). As in every element of their business model, Native Sun is extremely conscientious about the seafood they sell. Their staff is well-educated about sustain- able fi shing practices, and were able to answer all my questions. Most of their seafood is wild-caught with lines, which minimizes bycatch (i.e. it’s more “dolphin safe”, as well as turtle, seal, and bird-safe). I learned from my conversation with the staff at Native Sun, that, unless you catch it yourself, it doesn’t always make sense to buy local. Native Sun does not typically source their seafood locally due to the prevalent use of chemical preservatives, which are sprinkled on the fi sh shortly after they are caught. At a store so deeply concerned for the health of their customers, it’s probably best to trust that suspicion. To learn more about sustainable seafood issues, and to download a chart of best and worst choices to your mobile phone, visit: edf.org and click on the link to the “Seafood Selec- tor.” For more detailed information on each species, check out the EDF’s partner in science, at: montereybayaquarium.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 13 classy italian

talian is my first love, but I’ve neglected her in favor of trendy fusion food. Today, I remembered why I I love Italian food. Primi Piatti awoke my slumbering love with their homemade marinara and tender veal. But I’m jumping ahead to the main course. by erin thursby

The atmosphere of Primi Piatti feels very Tuscan. A warm suffused golden color dominates the dining room, with tasteful accent colors to keep things interesting. Several chandeliers dangle from the ceiling. Though the chandeliers all have the same sort of tone to them, they actually don’t match and so are much more interesting than if they did. This choice is echoed in the collection of mirrors on all the walls, which refl ect upon each other for an infi nity effect, all frames in the same sort of antique gold color. But they also vary in type. Each is different but blends stylistically. Instead of fl owers, each table is graced with what looks like an ornate banister knob. The atmosphere welcomes with elegance. First came the soup, the special of the day, she-crab soup. My waiter proclaimed it “heaven in a bowl” and told me stories about customers who found it better than the yacht club’s version. Eating it, I believed every word he said. Since he was the bearer of the soup, I would have believed a story about his recent climb of Mt. Everest, while blindfold- ed, with nothing but the soup to sustain him. Except for a few tiny pieces of crab cartilage, it was honestly that good. grant fresh basil, interlaced with the smell of the marinara. There seem to be a lot of culi- Desserts rotate at Primi Piatti. When you ask, your waiter will bring out a sample platter of nary secrets swirled into this soup, but what they’re offering that day. Pumpkin crème brulee, profi teroles, cannoli, mascarpone tarts and a one of them is most certainly the min- chocolate pumpkin cheese cake were among the selections when I went. Not on the dessert platter iscule pieces of carrots, cut so small are their sherbets and gelatos. Each dessert is lovingly crafted right there in the kitchen. They don’t that it’s diffi cult to identify them. They farm out their desserts here (not that there’s anything wrong with that—I always perk up each time I add to the texture of the crab-heavy hear the name “Let Them Eat Cake” connected with a restaurant’s desserts). soup and impart certain mysterious Opting for the most exotic thing I could order for dessert, I went for the olive oil gelato. It wasn’t sweetness that winds in and out of the half as strange as I expected to be. For the fi rst few bites it was deceptively simple. Just a very sweet creamy base. While they don’t serve but light and sorbet-like gelato. However, as I ate it the fl avor grew ever more complex, with elusive the soup every day, it is often the soup elements that made me want to keep eating it. It’s a gustatory riddle that will keep me coming back of the day. The soup of the day is a to solve it. mere $6.50 and is served in generous The next time you’re looking for an Italian place that’s not all about pizza (they don’t serve any), portions. which serves up elegance, fresh ingredients and a romantic neighborhood experience, head to Primi Next, I dove into the Prince Piatti. You can fi nd them on Park Street, near the intersection of King. Edward Island Mussels appetizer. They come in your choice of marinara or a garlic butter white wine broth. The mussels were exquisite and had soaked up the surrounding fl avors like tasty little sponges. I had the white wine sauce, mainly because I was going to have a red sauce in the main course. Other appetizers include their fried mozzarella sticks for $7 and the calamari served with a white truffl e marinara at $10. I didn’t have room to sample any of their salads, which include a mozzarella caprese, classic Caesar and spinach salad, with red onions, almonds and a creamy gorgonzola dressing. They grace their house salad with sun dried tomatoes, pinenuts, Parmesan cheese and a lemon basil dressing. Large size house salads go for $8, small goes for $4. Pasta entrées range from about $13-22, with one entrée at $25. The majority hit the $16 mark. The veal parmesan was exceptional. Thin and tender, savory and satisfying, the portion was large enough that it served for two more light meals afterwards. If I close my eyes I can still smell the fra-

14 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly dish update + events where to eat, drink & be merry by erin thursby

A neighborhood gourmet specialty store just opened up near Park and King. Olives & Oils (1506 King St. 619- 6187) carries exotic cheeses, various pastas and, of course, olive oil. Check out their fresh notable classes and demos produce and ready-made side dishes as well! There’s nothing like a deep fried turkey. But it’s a bit messy and can be a little dangerous. Copeland’s November 8th Dennis Chan of Blue Bamboo (3820 Southside Blvd., 646-1478) will hold a Middle Eastern Famous New Orleans Restaurant and Bar is selling Cajun Fried Turkeys all throughout November and cooking class. There are only about twelve slots, so reserve today. Cost is just $35. December. A 12-14 pound turkey costs about $50, not unreasonable when you consider that all the equipment needed, plus the raw turkey and the oil will run you at least $100. To get more information about At Apron’s Cooking School (Publix- 10500 San Jose Blvd., 262-4187) you’ll fi nd the usual full calendar of Copeland’s Cajun Fried Turkeys, please contact Copeland’s at 998-4414, or visit copelandsjacksonville. cooking classes and demos, except for Thanksgiving Day! com. Also serving up some deep fried turkey love is Whitey’s Fish Camp in Orange Park. Not only can you Get apples involved in your cuisine by attending Apron’s Apple a Day demo ($35) on November 15th at order a deep fried turkey to tske home, but you can also order an entire holiday feast to serve 4-6 people 6:30 pm. The menu includes Canapé of Maytag Blue Cheese & Roasted Walnuts; Waldorf Salad; Pork Loin for just $62.95. The 12-14 turkey by itself is just $38.95, positively a positively a steal! Call 269- 4198 to with Apple Cranberry Chutney; Wild Rice; Stuffed Baked Apples. pick up the day before Thanksgiving. Boston’s Restaurant and Sports Bar just opened a Jacksonville location last month near the JAX at On the 20th they have another notable demo-- Jacksonville’s Battle of the Clubs ($50), wherein Chef the River City Marketplace. Bar food, pasta and pizza are the foods you’ll fi nd, but the draw might be the Eric Peterson from Timuquana Country Club squares off against Chef Jeff Nordman from Marsh Landing big screen TVs and the various game consoles such as PlayStation3 with Madden ‘08 and the Wii. Country Club. Come to this class and see why these chefs are two of the fi nest in Jacksonville. foodcentric events International Food Festival Friday & Saturday, November 8- 9 - Part of the Family Art Festival and Salute ingredient secrets to the Troops at Midtown Centre. Local cuisine by Firehouse Subs, Havana-Jax Cafe, Juliette’s at the Omni Hotel, Matthew’s Market and Catering, and Red Chilies Indian Cuisine.

Roy’s 20 Year Anniversary Gala Tuesday, November 11 - Indulge in an evening dedicated to friends, stale bread fond memories and a menu created in tribute to Roy Yamaguchi. Prepared by long time friends Alan Wong, Nobu Matsuhisa and Testuya Wakuda (just to name a few), this fi ve–course wine dinner features the wines Stale bread isn’t useless. If it of Moët Hennessy USA. Seating is limited, so call 241-7697 to make your reservation. hasn’t gone moldy that is. Dried, stale bread is the base for everything Signature Chefs Auction Gala March of Dimes Benefi t Thursday, November 13 at 5:30- 9 pm - from stuffi ngs and croutons to bread Auctions, chef demos and celebrity Chef Rock will be a part of this food laden event. Go to page 12 for puddings. details and an interview with Chef Rock. Italian, French and cornbread Taste The Muzyk Friday, November 14 at 7 pm - The VIP party will feature the exclusive VIP restaurant, are all great bases for a good home- Old Siam. The pavilion will be decked out for an evening of fun and relaxation by PRI Productions with food made stuffi ng. Simply cube the from various restaurants and a variety of beverages. See the story on River City Band on page 33. bread and toss it in the oven with a light coating of olive oil or melted Tuesday, November 18 from noon to 1 pm - At the Prime Osborn 24th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon butter with seasonings. Let it get Convention Center. See pages 10 and 11 for details - Individual tickets are $25. Call 739-7074 for more information or visit wenourishhope.org a little crispy for stuffi ng and very crispy for croutons. Crumble some Thanksgiving and Old Tyme Farm Days & Engine Show Friday & Saturday November 28- 29 - Why not of the bread cubes to get your base have an extra Thanksgiving? Or have Thanksgiving a day later, without all the cooking, but with all of the for stuffi ng started. food. You’ll have the chance to experience the “olden days” as you watch cane grinding and syrup making, or ride in a mule-pulled wagon. You will also have the opportunity to visit a living Old Tyme Village, and see Folks still tend to think of stuffi ng as something you put inside a turkey, but I’m anti-bird many crafts, old-fashioned wares, and old tyme front porch pickin’ In addition, there is an Old Tyme Gospel stuffi ng myself. First, stuffed birds take longer to cook. They soak up the juices from the turkey, Sing and a Thanksgiving Dinner. Don’t forget to join in the Pre-Christmas Parade that runs through the Park but in order to get your stuffi ng to the safest temperature, you have to overcook the bird a bit. including golf carts, bicycles, horses, and more! This is defi nitely a fun-fi lled weekend that you do not want Stuffi ng tastes just as good when made outside the turkey. to miss out on!, Spirit of the Suwanee Music park, $10 Info: 386-364-1683. If you don’t have stale bread to spare, there’s no shame in using a box recipe for stuff- ing. Really, if Stove Top does it as well as you do with less sweat involved, why not? I like to drinkcentric events fool guests into thinking that my stuffi ng is entirely homemade by adding ingredients and using Stove Top as a base. Hopefully none of my potential guests are reading this. I add small diced Festival d’Vine Saturday, November 8 at 6:30 pm - Technically this Catholic Charities’ event is all about carrots, onions, celery and fresh herbs. I steam them a little before mixing them into Stove Top the wine, but with Jacksonville food stars such as bb’s, Matthew’s, Mortons and Pizza Palace, it’s just as Stuffi ng. I also like to add a bit of heavy cream and chicken broth to give it a lovely rich fl avor. much about the food!, San Marco Square, San Marco and Atlantic Boulevards, $75 (354-4846). You can also toss in your homemade croutons when making it, just ensure that they get good and soaked. When I want more control over the amount of seasoning in the stuffi ng, I just use Margarita Fest Friday, November 14 from 7- 10 pm - Margarita Fest will feature a special performance from Captain Josh, the most booked Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band in North America. Morocco Shrine plain bread crumbs as a base. Auditorium. $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Info: myspace.com/folioweeklymargaritafest Another tasty thing you can make with your stale bread is bread pudding. Crisp it well with butter in the oven, then place it in the bottom of a casserole dish. Soak it with a custard or a Beaujolais Nouveau Thursday, November 20 at 6 pm - Continuing an enduring tradition, we will sweet heavy cream, layering it with stewed or dried fruits and several layers of the bread. The celebrate the arrival of the 2008 Beaujolais Nouveau with a lavish fete. In a French bistro setting, the bottommost layer should be the crispiest so it will hold up, but the rest doesn’t have to be as celebrated arrival of the Beaujolais Nouveau will feature hors d’oeuvres and music for dancing. $89 per person. Advance reservations are required. Call 277-1028. crisp. Middle layers can vary more in texture. Whatever you decide to do with your stale bread this season, have fun experimenting!

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 15 James Kemp collected more than 1,000 talismans, religious folk art believed to keep away ghosts. More than 50 woodblock prints from his collection will be on display. Florida Community College North Campus, Art Gallery, Bldg. D, Rm. 301. Info: 766-6786

Nov. 1 – 30 Dancing Brushes and Flowing Ink The Sumi-e Society of America Hisshin Chapter presents the annual exhibit of East Asian Paintings at The Players Community Senior Center, 175 Landrum Lane, Ponte Vedra Beach, Monday thru Friday 8 am – 4 pm, Opening Reception Nov. 1, 4 - 7 pm. Info: 249-5055

Nov. 5 Downtown Art Walk First Wednesday Art Walk in Downtown Jacksonville, 5 - 9 pm. Info: downtownjacksonville.org or call 634-0303 ext. 230. Fall Art Walk Concert featuring The Jackson- ville Children’s Chorus and Tuba Player James Jenkins, Jr. at First United Methodist Church, 225 East Duval St., 7 pm, Tickets: $10. Florida Artist Joanelle Mulrain presents Art & Conversation at 212 Laura St., guest artist Stephen Floyd, guest musician Ray Peal and a special presentation of slides featuring internationally recognized Italian photographer Sandra Critelli. The Art Center Cooperative Inc. First Annual Fundraiser Silent Auction of Painted Chairs and other Artwork by Art Center Members, 111 E. Bay St., $5 suggested donation at the door for a pleasant evening of fellowship, music, art, wine and food. Members of the Jacksonville University Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) will host a Fall Fashion Show from 6:30 - 8 pm at the Jacksonville Landing. The show will include a canned food drive to support The Florida Highwaymen Paintings Children’s Home Society of Florida, Sulzbacher Center and Second Harvest Food Bank and feature cloth- ing donated by Anomaly. Take a ride on the River Taxi and check out Now thru Jan. 4 Florida Highwaymen Paintings and Prison Murals: Al Black and the Flor- MOSH’s Grand Opening of Mini The Museum of Science & History will host the Grand Opening of its newest temporary exhibi- ida Highwaymen Al Black spent the 1960s and 1970s selling paintings by the Highwaymen, Museum. a group of Florida artists. Eventually, he started making his own canvases. Life was good. tion, Richard McMahan’s Mini Museum, 5- 9 pm. The evening will kick off with a lecture and Q&A session By the 1980s, however, the demand for Highwaymen creations was slowing, and by the late from special guest speaker, Mark Sloan, Curator of the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art in Charleston, 1990s, Al Black found himself in jail. While housed at the Central Florida Reception Center S.C. Sloan, who is responsible for coordinating the pieces of Richard McMahan’s collected works into an near Orlando, Black’s past as a Highwayman artist was discovered by the Warden, and Black exhibit. Enjoy live music and hors d’oeuvres. was allowed the opportunity to paint murals throughout the CFRC. Author Gary Monroe, best known for his books on the Highwaymen, has photographed Black’s murals, and is in Nov. 6 – Dec. 23 The Annual Fogle Holiday the process of completing a book on the same subject. As Monroe says, Al Black’s prison Show Designed by Troy Spurlin INTERIORS, the murals allow a glimpse into another world, where a painting can offer “an artful prescrip- theme is Making Spirits Bright. Enjoy hot cocoa tion to alleviate what ails many desperate lives.” Shown in conjunction with a selection of and other refreshments at the open house on Highwaymen paintings, Monroe’s photographs add another new dimension to the celebrated Nov. 7, 8, and 9 from 10 am until 5 pm. Find legacy of the Highwaymen. Exhibit will be on display at the Cummer through January 4. Also gorgeous seasonal ornaments, artful holiday décor, handcrafted fi ne art jewelry by area ar- at the Cummer, Women of Vision: Ten Years of Art Beyond Sight on display through March 15, 2009. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Ave., Members Free, Non- tisans, and elegant and stylish accessories for Members $10. Info: 356-6857 or cummer.org under the tree. On Nov. 20 catch a cool event, Emergence featuring artists Christie Holechek

art events and Eric Gillyard and fi lms by Ian Chase and Eric Now thru Jan. MOCA Brings Local Artwork to Making Marks: Jacksonville Creates Making Marks will take a closer look at the ways art is being made locally and how these creative Gillyard. Fogle Fine Art & Accessories, 3312 individuals are making their mark in the art scene today. Also on view at MOCA Jacksonville Beach Blvd., Info: 296-1414 or foglefi neart.com through Jan. 4, Ultra-Realistic Sculptures by Marc Sijan and Richard Anuszkiewicz: The Nov. 7 First Friday of Inward Eye Series. MOCA Jacksonville, 333 North Laura St., Info: mocajacksonville.org or St. Augustine Art Walk; 366-6911 every month from 5 pm – 9 pm, Tours begin at Rembrandtz Fine Gifts for Fun People, 131 King Street, St. Augustine, 829-0065 or staugustin- Now thru Dec. 19 Out of the Box An annual invitational exhibition that showcases the cur- rent work of exceptional women artists in Jacksonville. These women artists explore a range egalleries.com of materials, processes, ideas, and their own personal vision of the world. Young artists, active in the growing art scene in Jacksonville, join established artists to provide a survey of Nov. 8 Soft Edges ~ Hard Lines Photographs the work being produced by women artists in Jacksonville today. Arlington: Women’s Center by Christopher Cahill. Opening reception on Sat, of Jacksonville, 5644 Colcord Ave, Gallery Hours: 11 am – 3 pm. Info: 722-3000 Nov. 8,6 - 9 pm at Three Layers Coffee House, 1602 Walnut Street (In Historic Sprinfi eld). Info: 355-9791 Now thru Nov. 11 Talismans of the Far East Woodblock prints of Chinese, Japanese and Korean talismans from the collection of James Kemp, ethnologist. In his travels to East Asia, Nov. 10 Angelica: A Collection of Photographs by artist Tony Falcone Orange Park: Thrasher- Horne Center for the Arts - Jack Mitchell Gallery by Christopher Cahill th 27 annual downtown festival & art Nov. 13 - Dec. 17 Graphic Art and Paintings Too Multimedia art exhibit of African-American themes and Street Scenes Acrylic paintings, pencil sketches, and digital prints by artist Keith Doles. FCCJ North Cam- show in gainesville pus Gallery,Bldg. D., Rm. 301. Opening reception Nov. 13 at 6 pm, Info: 766-6786.

(Nov. 6 - 9) Celebrating its 27th anniversary in 2008, the Downtown Festival & Art Show, pre- Now – Nov. 30 Secret Code A group art exhibition featuring Gabriel Shaffer, Jesse Reno and Thinkmule. sented by the City of Gainesville is one of the nation’s premier outdoor fi ne arts festivals. The Gallery At Screen Arts, 228 W. King Street, St. Augustine, 829-2838 or screenartsfl orida.com streets of historic downtown Gainesville, from City Hall to the Hippodrome State Theatre, will be Nov. 13 Beaches Art Walk Second Tuesday of each month from 5 pm – 9 pm, varied venues, jaxbeache- transformed into a celebration of art and creativity on Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, No- sartwalk.org vember 9 from 10 am to 5 pm. A signature event on the North Florida events calendar, the Arts Festival offers visitors the opportunity to meet the exhibiting artists, sample fi ne cuisine and Nov 12 LoudSOUNDLive Sarah Kane’s “4.48 Psychosis,” With Kirsten Walsh and Charlotte Mabrey, Uni- enjoy live entertainment. The art show attracts more than 100,000 people annually to view the versity of North Florida Art Gallery, 7 pm. Info: myspace.com/loudsoundlive works of over 250 of the nation’s most talented artists. An entire area is devoted solely to chil- Nov. 20 North Beaches Art Walk; Every third Thursday of each month, 5 pm – 9 pm, Atlantic/Nep- dren. New this year is the Music Showcase beginning Thursday, November 6 through Saturday, tune Beach area. Info: 249-2222 or [email protected] November 8. Country Concert on Thursday, featuring Chris Young, RCA Nashville Recording Artist and the winner of the 2006 Nashville Star, Friday evening a Blues Concert with Gaines- Nov. 22 Children’s Holiday in the Park and Meet and Greet Local Artists in Residence. Artwork on display ville’s own blues band “Blues-O-Matics” followed by Magic Slim and the Treardrops. Saturday and for sale. The Beaches Museum, 380 Pablo Ave, Jacksonville Beach, 10:30 – 12:30 pm. Info: 241- 5657 concludes the three day event with a smooth jazz concert. Collective Format, an exciting local smooth jazz band will take the stage at 7 pm followed by jazz musician Matt Marshak a talented If you have an art event you would like to have listed in EU Jacksonville, please send information to: young smooth jazz guitarist. Gainesville’s premier fall festival, a celebration of art and culture is [email protected] 30 days prior to event. free and open to the public. Info: gvlculturalaffairs.org or (352) 334-ARTS.

16 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly family art festival and salute to the troops Midtown Centre on November 7th and 8th by jon bosworth

A meandering name for sure, but the ironic thing is that in spite of all the categories that title covers, it only accounts for a small portion of the activities contained in this elaborate event. There are family ac- tivities, artists showing their wares, live music, plenty of food, ecological information booths, and tons of military events. Find most of the information contained here at familyartfestsalutetothetroops.org. You’ve heard of Town Center and if you’ve lived here long enough, you may even have an idea of where many local business parks are located, but it is still likely that Midtown Centre is not a location a Jacksonville local can immediately identify. So for Jacksonville locals: it is where the old Koger Center was located along Beach Boulevard in the historic neighborhood of St. Nicholas. For non-locals, St. Nicholas is the neighborhood between San Marco and University Boulevard on Beach Boulevard, a couple of miles East of the Beach/Atlantic split when coming from Downtown. Just turn left from Beach Boulevard onto Carmichael St. (near Kuhn Flowers) and you will defi nitely see the event going on. You’ll see it because an event of this size is not easy to miss. On Saturday, November 8th and Sunday, November 9th the festival will take over the campus of the Midtown Centre business park. From the public streets that will be closed off for the Art Markets, to the buildings that will be fi lled with various community organizations, the entire business park is likely to be overrun by vendors, organizations and the 8,000 anticipated guests of the event. Whether you want to bring the kids to create some cards to send to troops serving overseas and take the TourJax bus over to The Gallery at Fogle while learning about the history of St. Nicholas or you just want get some grub from neighborhood restaurants and catch some live music on the USO stage, it’s all here--along with plenty more! The Navy will be fl ying jets overhead, veterans will be recording their stories for the Library of Congress, and there will be plenty of green info from many major ecological organiza- tions such as Breaking Ground Construction and the St. Johns Riverkeeper. With all of that said, we haven’t even mentioned most of the art activities and organizations involved! emergence the best of next

WHAT: Emergence WHERE: The Gallery at Fogle (33 12 Beach Blvd.) WHEN: November 20

Do you ever wish there was a cool party you could go to where people were discussing art, mu- sic, fi lm and design? For you, The Gallery at Fogle presents Emergence. At the inaugural event Fogle presented the work of Tony Rodrigues. This talented Jacksonville artist is no newcomer to the art scene, but his new series of middle-century themed fi gures in boats and at beaches portrayed a nostalgic view into a the “quiet dignity” that Tony reveres in his subject material. On the opposite wall from Tony’s pieces was the work of Maribel Angel. Maribel’s work is some- thing that can always be found at Fogle, but for the Eric Gillyard Emergence event she showcased several new piec- es. Her fanciful expressionist characters, who range from faceless, yet jolly women to a simple row of bottles, are presented alongside her abstracts on textured surfaces. Both artists presented work with a sense of simplistic whimsy with serious, albeit sometimes invisible, subtext. Emergence partner Doorpost Film Project (thedoorpost.com) presented short fi lms from the Jacksonville Film Festival in the screening room at the Emergence event. Music was provided by a Jacksonville local currently living in Berlin, Germany. Batsauce, the beatmaker for the Smile Rays and Heavenly Noise, has crafted an album from his travels around the world. His rhythms set a perfect undertone for a night of artful conversation in what the Jacksonville Business Journal Book of Lists 2008 named Jacksonville’s Top Gallery. In addition to bringing some of Jacksonville’s hottest emerging artists in various genres, Fogle also served beers from Jacksonville’s own Bold City Brewery and wine from The WineBar on the Southbank. Emergence happens on the third Thursday of every month. On November 20th see the compel- ling artwork of Eric Gillyard, who has only recently returned to Jacksonville from Atlanta, alongside Fogle artist Christie Holechek. Christie’s paintings breathe new life into urban landscapes and maps a legion of unseen energy. In the screening room, see the Weird Island movies by Eric Gillyard and Ian Chase. Catch the best of what’s next in The Gallery at Fogle, 3312 Beach Boulevard in the St. Nicholas neighborhood of Jacksonville. Call 296-1414 for details.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 17 Nov. 2 UNF Family Fest A fun, af- craft stations including tie-dye T-shirts, leather fordable celebration of literacy in the stamping, wood block decorating, cookie-decorat- outdoors featuring storytelling, nature ing with the Jacksonville Jaguar ROAR cheerleaders scavenger hunts, face painting, ca- and more. There will also be cotton candy, face noeing, live performances and more. painting, moon walks and an old-fashioned barbecue UNF Nature Trails, Child Development as well as dance groups and live music. Jarboe Research Center, 4567 St. Johns Bluff Park, Florida Blvd. and 5th Street, Neptune Beach Road. S, Bldg 49, 1 - 4 pm, Info: 620- from 11am to 4pm, Info: 493-7738 2372 Nov. 8 - 9 Family Art Fest and Salute to the Nov. 3 - 4 Mr. Al in Concert Mr. Al will Troops Free family event featuring ARTmarket, perform in two concerts each day, at Military Zone, Kid Zone, International Food Festival, 9:30am and 11:30am. All tickets are Community, Health and Safety Zone a CH-47 Chi- $5. Prime Osborne Convention Center, nook Helicopter on display and much more. The 9:30am and 11:30am, Info: 630-4000 Marines will also be collecting unwrapped Toys for Tots. Read more on page 17. Midtown Centre, 3947 Boulevard Center Dr., 10am to 5 pm. Info: Nov. 7 Jungua: Descendents of the 396-9092 ANNIE at Thrasher-Horne Dragon A combination of kungfu, Nov. 8 Native American History Dr. Denise Bossy, acrobatics, music and dance featuring Nov. 8 Hip Hop Extreme Workshop Choreogra- Assistant Professor of History at the University of naturalists, live music, kids activities, a plant sale China’s fi nest acrobats and martial pher’s Shane Sparks and others will be in town North Florida, will speak about the enslavement of and storytelling by a local historian. Jacksonville arts masters. Florida Theatre, 128 East teaching a hip hop workshop during the day. At native people along the Florida border. Her presenta- Arboretum and Gardens, 1445 Millcoe Road from 10 family events Forsyth St. 7:30pm, Info: 355-2787 7:15pm, seating will begin for the talent showcase. tion, entitled “The Path to Florida”: Indian Slavery am to 4 pm. There will also be a limited number of tickets avail- and the Fight for the Florida Borderlands, will be Nov. 8 Annie Family Fun Day Put able to watch the workshop during the day. Prime offered in honor of Native American Heritage Month. Nov. 15 Sky Tour Join members of Northeast your well-behaved, leashed dog in a pet Osborne Convention Center, 1000 Water Street, This event is free and open to the public. Kingsley Florida Astronomical Society and their telescopes look-alike parade and contest hosted by 7:15 pm. Info: 630-4000 Plantation, 11676 Palmetto Avenue at 2pm, Info: in a view of the night sky. See planets, stars and the Clay County Humane Society. Kids 251-3537 constellations and learn the best ways to view the can Zumba to Annie music. The fi rst Nov. 8 March for Babies March of Dimes WalkA- upcoming Leonids Meteor Showers. *Weather per- 100 kids get a free T-shirt. Thrasher- merica, the March of Dimes largest fundraising Nov. 14 - 15 Annie The classic story of Annie will mitting. Camp Tomahawk, 8419 San Ardo Rd., 7 pm Horne Center for the Arts, St. Johns event, has been renamed March for Babies. Visit be shown on the main stage, in 2 performances. to 9:30pm. Info: 630-CITY River Community College, Orange Park, the website or call to sign up to walk. You can start Who said you can’t wear your pajamas to the the- 10 am - 1 pm. Info: 276-6770 your own team, or join an already formed team, or atre? All children, ages 12 and under, are invited to Nov. 15 Take a Kid to a Game Day The Jackson- walk as an individual. Florida School for the Deaf attend the Annie Pajama Party during the Nov. 14, ville University Dolphins will be hosting a football Nov. 8 Crafternoon Crafternoon is a and the Blind, 207 N San Marco Ave, St. Augustine 7:30 pm performance. Pajama party participants will game against Drake. JU is also hosting Take a Kid great family event for kids ages 2-102. at 9am. Info: 1-800-525-9255 be treated to a special bedtime snack at intermis- to a Game Day, where kids get in free with every There will be more than 10 hands-on sion. To participate, purchase tickets to the Friday purchase of an adult ticket, which are priced at $12. night performance and reserve your child’s space There will be many activities for the kids to partici- with the THCA concierge at 276-6770. Tickets range pate in. Prior to the start of the game, there will be from $25 to $48. Thrasher Horne Center for the Arts, a “Dance Party with Duncan,” (JU’s mascot) face- 283 College Drive, Orange Park. Info: 276-6750 painting, and other events. Jacksonville University, just read it! 12 noon. Info: 256-7400 Nov. 14 - 16 St. Augustine Pirate Gathering The pirate fun begins on Friday evening as pirates wan- Nov. 16 Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tennessee Titans story and photo by daniel goncalves, danielgoncalves.com der the streets of the old city. On Saturday, the day Single game tickets start at $50. Jacksonville Mu- begins with a pirate parade along San Marco Ave. nicipal Stadium, 1 Alltel Stadium Place, 1 pm. Info: Just Read it!--That’s what Mike says. at 10 am, followed by a skirmish at the redoubt, 633-2000 Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (#54) that is. Mike located across from Castillo de San Marcos, then started the “Just Read it!” program which is in continues up St. George Street to the Plaza de La Nov. 23 Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Minnesota Vi- its second year. Publicist, Bonnie Upright says, Constitucion at 11:45 am. On Saturday and Sunday kings Single game tickets start at $50. Jacksonville “Just Read It is for all Duval County students in from 2 pm to 5 pm at the Fountain of Youth Archeo- Municipal Stadium, 1 Alltel Stadium Place at 1 pm. grades three through eight. PACE Center for Girls logical Park, there will be fun Pirate lore, magic, Info: 633-2000 is also involved this year”. Six elementary, six shanties, a thieves market and plenty of swash- middle school students, and one girl from PACE, buckling demonstrations. On Sunday beginning at Nov. 26 – 30 Walking With Dinosaurs The Live are selected as monthly winners. The incentive 10:30 am, there will be a Pirate’s court, a comedic Experience The show based on the award winning program is designed to award outstanding refl ection of all complaints addressing the preceding BBC television series comes to life on stage, starring students at the elementary and middle school level evening’s frivolities. Thieves Market open 12 noon to fi fteen “live” dinosaurs. The show depicts the dino- for reading improvement and attendance. 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. Admission to Fountain saurs evolution spanning their 200 million year reign. What is their prize? The “Just Read It Stars of Youth Park is $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for chil- Read EU’s interview with the director on page 21. of the Month,” get a behind the scenes tour of the dren 6 to 12. Downtown St. Augustine. Veterans Memorial Arena, 300 A. Philip Randolph Jacksonville Municipal Stadium. The winners hop Blvd. Info: 630-3900 on an elevator and go straight to the top fl oor press box. Nyree Bowen, community relations person for Nov. 15 1st Annual Jacksonville Chalk Fest The the Jaguars leads the tour. They work their way down onto the fi eld and visitor’s locker room. At the end Downtown Sidewalk Chalk Contest is an event to Nov. 27 25th Annual Outback Distance Classic of the tour Mike meets with the students. benefi t Students, Artists, Families and Creative Three races to benefi t the Mandarin Food Bank in- “I have always liked to read, says Mike “and I really believe it’s important for kids to know that People by awarding prizes and scholarships. Check clude the Half Marathon, 6K, and Joey Mile Fun Run. reading is a good thing. It might not have been a cool thing to do back in the day, but now, reading is so in for competitors begins at 8 am, with competition Both races will start at 8am on San Jose Boulevard important. I think people would be surprised at how many of us football players read in our spare time. beginning at 10 am. Following the judging, there will in front of the Outback Mandarin Plaza. All par- Reading is defi nitely the key to success.” be prizes, festivities and more. Open to ages 5 and ticipants must bring one non-perishable food item The rewards don’t stop there. At the conclusion of the school year, all 84 winners are invited to up. Jacksonville Landing. to packet pickup, or add $1 to entry fee. Outback attend a year-end celebration hosted by Peterson. Mike explains, “Every time I get to hang out with the Steakhouse, 9773 San Jose Blvd., 8 am. Info: 731- kids, it’s memorable. It’s all about the kids. They are so excited about visiting the stadium, and it’s a real Nov. 15 29th Annual Mandarin Run 10K and one 1900 honor for me to share that experience with them. I know that many of them don’t get a chance to come mile fun run to Benefi t Seaside Playgarden. The race to the games, so it’s cool to give them this opportunity. I like showing the kids where I work, and show will start and fi nish in Mandarin Park and will do a Nov. 29 - 30 Fall Arts and Crafts Festival St. Au- them my classroom. I also look forward to the end of the year celebration, when we have a big cookout large loop around Mandarin Point. 10K starts at 8 gustine’s annual art festival features art created from for all of our winners, with all you can eat hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream. We’ll bring out some am, and the fun run begins at 9:30am. Old Mandarin many different mediums. The art festival takes place at Francis Field behind the St. Augustine Downtown games and activities and just let the kids have a good time.” If that doesn’t make reading cool, I don’t Presbyterian Church, 12001 Mandarin Rd., 8 am. Historic Parking Facility located on West Castillo know what does! Keep doing good things on the fi eld and in the classroom Mike. You’re making a difference and Nov. 15 Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens Drive in St. Augustine. Admission is a $1 donation. Francis Field, US1 and Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, 10 creating memories that’ll last a lifetime! For more information: MikePeterson54.com Grand Opening Celebration The grand opening am - 5 pm. Info: 823-5906 celebration will include guided tours by trained

18 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly holiday events

nounce the 2008 Festival of Trees. This year’s event is guaranteed fun for the young and young at heart as the library is transformed in to a magical holiday playground. Main Library, juniorleagueofjax.org

November 28 22nd Annual Tree Lighting All of Jacksonville is invited to see the annual lighting of the Landing’s 50 foot tree. The event is always a wonderful sight to behold and this year’s tree prom- ises to be better than ever before. Jacksonville Land- ing, 353-1188 or jacksonvillelanding.com

November 28-30 Christmas Made In The South Creativity abounds as hundreds of artists and crafts- men gather to demonstrate and sell their work. Get a head start on your gift list and enjoy the Christmas shopping experience of the season. Prime Osborne Convention Center, madeinthesouthshows.com

November 28-December 7 The Nutcracker Tour of Homes at World Golf Village The Neighborhoods of World Golf Village presents its eighth annual The Christmas Music of Mannheim Steamroller Nutcracker Tour of Homes. The free holiday home tour will feature model homes elegantly decorated in Christmas Made in the Shouth November 7-9 Fogle’s Annual Holiday Show sonville premiere. Founded by former adman Chip themes inspired by The Nutcracker ballet. World Golf Fogle’s annual holiday open house features a varied Davis, Mannheim Steamroller’s signature sound is Village, 940-5000 or worldgolfrealestate.com imaginations. Seafarers and landlubbers of all ages assortment of exquisite ornaments and seasonal where classical and modern-day rock, acoustic and are sure to be dazzled by the area’s largest lighted accessories, from decor to gift certifi cates to hand- electronic music meet. Celebrate the spirit of the November 28-December 13 Christmas Belles A boat parade. Downtown Riverfront, 630-3690 coj.net crafted jewelry by Florida artisans. Enjoy a cup of season with the “18th century rock band” that’s be- church Christmas program spins hilariously out of hot cocoa and let the kids play in Fogle’s family come one of the most popular and best-selling acts control in this Southern farce about squabbling sis- November 29-December 21 A Christmas Carol room while you peruse our stylish holiday offerings. in the last 30 years. Times-Union Center, 632-3373 ters, family secrets, a surly Santa, a vengeful sheep Join Scrooge, Marley, the Cratchits and a host of Fogle Fine Art, 3312 Beach Blvd, 296-1414 or fogle- or artistseries.fccj.org and a reluctant Elvis impersonator. Players By the Christmas ghosts for this holiday favorite and a fi neart.com Sea (Jacksonville Beach), 249-0289 or playersby- Hippodrome tradition. Dazzling special effects, an November 21-January 4 Winter Wonderland Lace thesea.org original adaptation and a timeless message have November 12 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Trans- up your skates and head over to the St. Augustine made A Christmas Carol one of the most popular Siberian Orchestra’s musical style can be described Amphitheatre to enjoy a Winter Wonderland! The as progressive rock, symphonic metal and heavy seasonal extravaganza includes a 100 foot Ice Slide, metal, with infl uences from classical music. Their winter games, an Elf village, onstage performances well-known renditions of traditional Christmas songs of the Quiltmaker’s Gift, lighted nature trails, Santa, are sure to get you in the spirit. Jumpstart your yule- s’mores on an open fi re and much more. St. Augus- tide season with the help of lasers, pyrotechnics and tine Amphitheatre, 471-1965 or staugamphitheatre. the big, bold orchestral arrangements of the Trans- com Siberian Orchestra. Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, 630-3998 November 22-January 31 15th Annual Nights of Lights Celebration Millions of white lights cre- Nov. 15 Lighting of the Great Tree To kick off the ate a magical holiday atmosphere in the Nation’s arrival of Santa and start of the yuletide season, oldest city during the 15th Annual Nights of Lights St. Johns Town Center will once again present the Celebration. A dazzling array of special events and Lighting of the Great Tree in the second phase Town activities await visitors including nighttime tours led Square near Cantina Laredo. Families are invited to by costumed storytellers, train and trolley tours, an evening of live music, strolling entertainment, special shopping events, a dazzling regatta, ice skat- food sampling, and the offi cial arrival of Santa and ing, luminaries in the town plaza, holiday concerts, a a countdown to the Lighting of The Great Tree. St. Christmas parade and more. Historic St. Augustine, Johns Town Center from 5pm to 8 pm. Info: 642- (800) 653-2489 or nightsofl ights.com The Elf Village at St Augustine Amphitheatre’s Winter Wonderland 8339 November 23 Every Woman’s Arts & Crafts Holi- November 15 T’was the Flight Before Christmas: day Festival Local and regional artists feature a November 28-December 21 A Tuna Christmas The Hippodrome productions of all time. Adapted by Santa’s Prefl ight Checklist: Aire Traffi c This special variety of fi ne art and hand-crafted items, including citizens of Tuna, Texas have once again entered Mary Hausch. Hippodrome, 25 S.E. 2nd Place holiday event combines a charming story about original paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolors, the town’s heated Yuletide lawn display contest. (Gainesville), (352) 375-4477 or thehipp.org St. Nick and his elves and the music of Aire Traffi c, beaded and semiprecious stone jewelry, hand- Socialite Vera Carp hopes to win another consecu- a band is comprised of air traffi c controllers who poured scented candles and soaps, hand-made tive victory, but she faces stiff competition from the November 29-December 23 The 2008 Gingerbread incorporate a mix of jazz, horns, keyboards, drums, home decor items, note cards and prints, garden art, crusty proprietor of Didi’s Used Weapons and from Extravaganza Take a moment and enjoy the smell and of course, an aeronautical theme. Proceeds hats, woodworking, sewing and textiles, pet items, a pair of cowboy-loving Tastee Creme waitresses. of gingerbread and the sites of St. Nick at the Rotary benefi t the Children’s Miracle Network. St. Augustine and more. St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion, every- Hippodrome, 25 S.E. 2nd Place (Gainesville), (352) Club’s annual holiday charity event. Gigantic creative Amphitheatre, 471-1965 or staugamphitheatre.com womansart.moonfruit.com 375-4477 or thehipp.org gingerbread houses built by architects, engineers and home builders along with other local profession- November 21 The Christmas Music of Mannheim November 24-January 7 Festival of Trees 2008 November 29 Jacksonville Light Parade Boats als will be on display for your family’s viewing plea- Steamroller Get an early start on your holiday The Junior League of Jacksonville, in partnership of every shape and size are imaginatively adorned sure. Jacksonville Historical Society, 317 A. Philip mood when Mannheim Steamroller makes its Jack- with the Jacksonville Public Library, is proud to an- with decorations that captivate senses and stimulate Randolph Blvd., 391-3425 or rotarycharity.org

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 19 20 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly prehistoric party

Walking with Dinosaurs: The Live Experience by kellie abrahamson

rehearsal in the afternoon of all the technical elements in the show basically and then we An Adult Brachiosaurus and his offspring open on Wednesday night and play it through until Sunday generally at which time we pull share a moment in a scene from WALKING it all out and travel on Monday and do the same thing all over again. WITH DINOSAURS - The Live Experience

EU: Who is the target audience? CW: Well marketers and PR people will always say “Oh this show appeals [to everyone] from 2 to 92” but that’s sort of marketing hype in a lot of cases. In the case of this show it’s actually true. That’s what we see coming into the audience every night when I go into watch the show. There are little kids from 2 years old right up to grandma and grandpa so it a real cross-section of people. Teenagers fi nd something different in it than people in their 40s to people in their 60s or 70s and of course little kids just love it.

EU: So the show is defi nitely appropriate for small children? CW: Yeah, one of the bigger sections of our audience will be kids. I mean they have such a fascination with dinosaurs. Funnily enough, people always say they [might be] scared by it. I mean, occasionally you’ll get a kid that’s not prepared for it or fi nds it a little bit loud but it’s generally that they’re thrilled by it and exhilarated by it, more like a roller coaster ride rather than a horror show.

EU: How have audiences responded to the show? CW: Pretty much as one. I mean, we opened in Australia in January of 2007 and the audiences there have responded the same way as the audiences here when we opened it, when we toured it in Canada. Everybody’s pretty much blown away by the show. We haven’t had anybody come out going “Eh that was ok.” [Laughs] It’s not a show that’s designed to have a mediocre response. It’s designed on a grand scale to have a spec- tacular response and it does.

Aside from family feasts, folks in the River City have something else to be thankful for in November. Dino-philes of all ages should make plans to head to the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena some- Walking with Dinosaurs: The Live Experience; a stage production, a science lesson and a sideshow all at time between November 26th and November 30th. Tickets for this not to be missed show range in price once; is coming to Jacksonville from the 26th to the 30th. The show has wowed audiences in Australia, from $27.50 to $62.50 and are available through FCCJ Ticketing at artistseries.fccj.org or by phone at Canada and now the US and is making its way to the First Coast this month. The production promises to 632-3373. For more information on Walking with Dinosaurs visit dinosaurlive.com. drop jaws and elicit shrieks with its incredibly life-like life-sized creatures. Based on the hit BBC documentary series, Walking with Dinosaurs takes audiences on a journey through time and they never have to leave their arena seats. Accompanied by our trusty paleontologist Huxley, we’ll head to the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods and meet the different species of di- nosaurs who roamed the earth during those times. Ten different types of dinosaurs are represented in this walking with dino facts unique stage spectacle and all of them are exactly as they were when they were alive: massive, loud and completely captivating. There are 17 dinosaurs in all- 15 large ones and 2 smaller babies Recently EU was lucky enough to catch up with resident director Cameron Wenn who gave us the Each large dinosaur weighs 1.6 tons, that’s as heavy as a standard family car inside scoop on the show, the dinosaurs and all the hard work that goes into making these mammoth ac- tors come to life. Each of the mammoth dinos runs on 6 rollerblade wheels The brachiosaurus is the tallest in the show, measuring 36 feet high EU: How does this differ from other theatrical shows you’ve worked on in the past? CW: [Laughs] Greatly! Well, it differs and it doesn’t actually. It’s never been attempted before, something The tyrannosaurus rex is the second tallest, measuring 23 feet high like this where the cast of characters are actually huge animatronic puppets… We actually have two ac- tors that share the role as the paleontologist who is sort of the narrator character who actually walks us The high fl ying ornithocheirus has a wing span of 38 feet through the show. But the rest of the characters in the show are all dinosaurs so it is a little bit tricky in the Each large dinosaur contains: (based upon the construction of a Torosaur) sense that it takes three people to operate each one. So each large dinosaur is operated by three different 433 feet of hydraulic hose people animatronically and mechanically and then there are some smaller dinosaurs that are operated by • 971 square feet of fabric single performers. So yeah, it’s a logistical challenge I suppose you’d say. • • 433 cubic feet of foam 53 gallons of paint EU: Is it diffi cult moving from city to city and stage to stage with such huge equipment? • 7 kilowatts of power from 12 truck batteries CW: Yeah, it’s not a small exercise. We travel in twenty six 53-foot tractor trailer trucks so it’s one of the • biggest shows on the road and the 26 trucks are all unloaded in one day and the whole show gets set up in • 1094 yards of cabling in each body one day and it all gets pulled down at the end of our weeks performance in each city in about 4 hours. So • 24 microprocessors control movement along with 15 hydraulic rams and 6 hydraulic it is a logistical challenge there too but Jake Berry our touring manager who is used to doing big rock and motors each roll shows has got it down to a fi ne art. The touring company consists of 15 cast members (6 suit performers, 2 actors and 7 puppeteers) and 45 crew members (9 dino drivers, 3 person skins/dressing staff, and multiple EU: So what’s a typical fi rst day in a new town like for the Walking with Dinosaurs cast and crew? engineers, lighting and sound personnel, carpenters, riggers and workers in AV/automation) CW: A week generally goes as follows: We basically travel on a Monday to the new city, load the show in on a Tuesday which involves putting everything from the lighting to the fl oor to the set to rebuilding all 300,000 people saw the show in Australia in early 2007 and almost 2 million people have seen the dinosaurs, that happens on a Tuesday. The show is lit overnight; the lighting guys come in and focus the show in North America thus far. all the lights… And on the Wednesday morning we generally technically check all the dinosaurs out, do a

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 21 netscapades by brenton crozier

you’re probably whining about the economy, so . . .

While the term depression is continually bandied about and the offi cial report that the sky is indeed falling was just fi led, you are probably wondering where that leaves you. Well, I have no idea. I hope you didn’t sign an ill- advised mortgage or bet your entire savings on Lehman Brothers. I’m wondering, does this situation vindicate the often chastised hillbillies (the “get off my land” types) that swore off fi nancial institutions some time ago and kept the cash in the mattress? The varying indicators and a whole slew of numbers are discussed on nearly every newscast, along with the ad nauseam presidential election coverage. Seriously, all the information is there, it’s just being regurgitated by the smart people reading the teleprompters. So, while you are considering how to cut back, whether it’s going from two energy drinks a day to one, waiting a few more months on that sweet new iPhone or shopping at the Gap instead of Banana Republic, be sure to take a break from it all. Take a break from the old and often depressing talking heads on the news, take a break from the downbeat forecasts and take a break from wishing you could take a break. Gas prices are way down, so take advantage while it’s less than $3 a gallon and check out some of these super cheap daytrip ideas and free attractions and activities.

roadtripamerica.com www.roadtripamerica.com/DayTrips/Day-Trips-from-Jacksonville-Florida.htm Do you ever feel like getting out of Jacksonville for the day or weekend but have trouble thinking up interesting destinations that are not Orlando or St. Augustine? Roadtrip America has assembled some fantastic day trips that range from a 45 minute to 2 hour drive. These trips focus on both Georgia and Florida’s interiors offering varying landscapes with rivers, creeks, lakes and swamps. Bring your camera, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the gorgeous weather when you go on your day- long adventure. Additionally, all of the suggested trips are budget friendly! free-attractions.com www.free-attractions.com/jacksonville_fl .htm This site is by no means aesthetically pleasing or comprehensive. However, it does provide some great ideas on how you can spend a day for the best price of all: FREE. Have you visited the Fort Caroline National Memorial, perused the fascinating artifacts at the Jacksonville Fire Museum or taken a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery? The site doesn’t go into great detail, but offers some fantastic suggestions making it a great starting point for weekend planning. But don’t forget that the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is free on Tuesdays and JMOCA is also free for families on Sundays.

suite101.com budget-sightseeing.suite101.com/article.cfm/free_things_to_do_in_jacksonville Let’s keep the free train, or in this case, trolley going. In this user-submitted article you are provided with six more free activities in Jacksonville. Did you know that there was a free trolley from the Jacksonville Transportation Authority? Three trolley lines pass by interesting sites like the Ritz Theatre and La Villa Museum. There are also musical and outdoor activities suggested. Take part and enjoy these things so that they don’t go away!

Now is a better time than ever to embrace the organic activities that were always so much fun, got kids off their rears and seem to have etched their way into permanent memory as good times. So, get your family together and go to the beach and make sandcastles, visit an aforementioned museum, cook dinner together, maybe even do some volunteer work together or, in the interest of perpetuating my internet-themed article, start a blog together. Whatever your personal economic situation, it is always good for the soul to take a break from it all and return to the things that make you feel human. Enjoy life and do it on the cheap.

22 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly yellow What crayon did you use when you made the sun? And then what color crayon did you use when you violently scribbled over the entire paper? That’s right fellow troubled brethren, black will be a great accent color in your new yellow room. Midday - Do this in high gloss, man. Then with black get all Jackson Pollock on its ass! Abstracta - Defi nitely a guy’s guy yellow - whatever that means?! Very mid-century, Eames era color.

blue I thought pink was for girls and blue was for boys. And that’s true. For children. But as an adult, they are both chick colors. I mean, I love the color blue but fi nd it completely weird in a single guy’s house. Don’t do it man.

black For the fearless dude, the goth dude, the depressed dude, or the artsy dude. Black does it all!! Onyx - Paint the whole room, even the woodwork. “Decorator dude, crown moulding and wood work should be white.” STFU. Blacktop - Okay, okay...keep the woodwork white but do the walls in this - yes, it is quite different from Onyx. grey The most popular color this season. Like oysters? Nantucket Gray - The perfect grey suit for the home, without the “get the stick outta your ass” at- titude. notes from the Edgecomb Gray - When you want the walls white but still want to get laid. Red, Brown, Green, Yellow, Not Blue, Black, or Gray. That’s the Fall 2008 color picks for the bachelor pad. Now, with your Rogue beer in hand reach for that paint brush (helpful hint: buy a “Purdy” brush, they cost a little more but are well worth it) and change your life! Color really is transformational, bachelor pad by troy spurlin man. Now go put some color on that wall! troyspurlin.com Bravely fi ghting the status quo with fearless style... I have always envied residential painters. They make great money and their drinking doesn’t seem to interfere with the job! Lucky bastards. So with the holidays nipping at our heels and without a whole lot of money in our pocket I thought it the right time to offi cially announce the “First An- nual Bachelor Pad Picks: Colors For Dudes!” C’mon man, you know those walls need painting! I have selected masculine, sexy, rich, warm colors guaranteed to get her juices fl owing. Besides, I have done all the homework. All you have to do is grab a bottle of “Rogue” Beer (I like the 22 ounce bottles) and fi gure out what color suits you best. All of the colors I have selected are from Benjamin Moore but you can go with whatever paint company you like and can afford. For a little more money but with a direct nod to the environment, I am hoping a few of you will buy low VOC paint (look it up) and just have it matched to the color I have listed. Oh, and one more thing. Don’t be a wuss. Women love color! red Is there anything hotter than red? Just ask Betty Page’s lips. But red, my man, is hard. Some are too pink, some are too purple-y, some are too bright, some are too much. There is but one choice: Caliente (AURA) - Dude, this color is smoking hot! The perfect masculine sexy red. Tried and true. brown Alyssa Milano’s eyes, the UPS truck, the Rogue beer you should be drinking. Brother...Brown is hot! Mix it with yellow, orange, red, green or white. It’s all good. North Creek Brown - The color is a sexy bronze brown just like Pam Grier’s cleavage in Foxy Brown - it kicks some serious ass and leaves you wanting more! Tudor Brown - You know that Peterbrooke Chocolate Fountain? She likes it, right??!! Riiiiiiiiight. green The fi rst word that pops to mind is environment, but that ain’t happening here man. I’m thinking Al Green’s hit ‘Let’s Stay Together’ - that’s the Green I’m talking about. Mix it with natural colored woods, throw in a little creaminess and a whole lot of polished chrome. Barrington Green - It’s a great olive green. Very Mad Men! Creekside Green - The perfect sage green for the dude that needs his house to say, “Calm the f*ck down!”

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 23 fair The Greater Agricultural

It’s that time of year again. Hurricane season is waning and your appetite for various meats on sticks, animal smells and rides that appear as dangerous as the people operating them is strong. You can’t help it. No matter how bad the economy is, you simply can’t experience autumn in the South until you’ve hit the fair. We don’t get the benefi t of leaves changing color or the consistent brisk winds of fall, so the only way to really immerse ourselves in the season is by going to a vast lot that spends most of the year empty and partaking in everything from kettle corn and funnel cake to beer pong tournaments and racing pigs. Well don’t wait because it’s already underway! Sure, you could get your fi x at any of the surrounding county fairs, but the truth is none of them compare to the grandeur or charm of the southern culture on the skids that is the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair. Since 1955 it has promised fun for the whole family and it’s cheap! -Let me rephrase that- It can be reasonably priced! (As long as you don’t participate in the midway games or ride any of the rides.) Admission is $4-5 for children 12 and under and $8 for most adults. Admission grants you access to all of the concerts, the exhibits in the Expo Center, and many of the shows. Pay the $25 Express Pass and you can get into the fair and a wristband for unlimited rides. Take note, however, many of the better rides do not accept the wristband. We wouldn’t really be Entertaining U if we didn’t give you the annual scoop on all of the activities available to you and yours. Of course if you aren’t into reading about it here, you can always get all the info you need from jacksonvillefair.com. There are some discounts available for certain folks, check the website for those details or ask at the front gate.

highlights:

The Great American Duck Race and Jump! The Ultimate Dog Show – In case you were afraid you’d live your whole life without seeing dressed up dogs jumping for Frisbees or ducks competing for top fowl, the fair is here to save the day. There are, of course, also racing pigs, an alligator show and a magic show. These events are ongoing.

Novembeer Fest – On Friday, November 7th from 8:30 pm until 11 pm in the hospitality tent. This event costs an extra $5, but who doesn’t drink more than $5 worth of beer? Anheuser-Busch will showcase more than 20 different selections of beer and malt liquors.

Kids Cupcake Decorating Contest – November 7th at 6 pm in Exhibit Hall A. While dad is getting tanked (again) at the Novembeer Fest, take the kids over to the cupcake contest. They get to decorate a cupcake and then eat it! If they come up with the best design and can refrain from eating it until the judge comes by, they might even win a prize!

24 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly enough Jacksonville Fair Is Back!

by jon bosworth

Guitar Hero Tournament – Saturday November 8th from noon until 6 pm in the hospitality tent. Get ready to pit your best chops against every gamer that has been hiding their skills in their personal sanctuaries. Finally, not having a girlfriend can pay off! (Although the prize is not specifi ed.)

Scholastic Chess Tournament – Saturday November 8th, from 1pm until 4 pm in Exhibit Hall A. This contest is open to students in grades K through 12. There is a $10 registration fee and the student must be registered by November 5th via mail or through mychessclub. us. But no parent has ever been prouder than the holder of a championship title from an agricultural fair. Except perhaps the parent of the winner of the Guitar Hero Tournament, because they hope their child will fi nally move out of the house.

Last Blast Celebration – Sunday November 11th from 3 pm until 7 pm will feature Christian rock! If you aren’t good enough for the Guitar Hero Tournament, then just bring your air guitar and your hip haircut to this good clean rock show featuring Matlock, One, Timothy Ryan Project and Red Letter Bullet. VIP seating is available for $12 per person, but otherwise this event is free with admission.

Cooking Contests – Almost every day at the fair has some cooking contest or other in Exhibit Hall A. There is a cake baking contest, a cake decorating contest, a Fleishmann’s Yeast Bake for the Cure Baking Contest, a Spam appetizer contest, a condensed milk baking contest, a chocolate dessert contest, a Malt-O-Meal cold cereal dessert-making contest and even a fried food contest.

Music – Musicians are featured almost every day at the fair. Mint Julep (11/2), Jason Michael Carroll (11/3), Lee Brice (11/4), Phil Vassar (11/5), POCO (11/6), EverLife (11/7), and Natural Truth (11/8). Live acts are free with admission and VIP seating is available for $12 more per person.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 25 american country rock

interview with Rusty Young of Poco by rick grant

Rusty Young’s long and strange musical journey parallels the history of rock’n’roll. Since 1968, Rusty has been the brain trust of Poco and its owner. Poco is an American country rock band origi- nally formed by Young, Richie Furay and Jim Messina following the demise of Buffalo Springfield in 1968. During recording of the last Buffalo Springfield album, each of the three lead singers (Ste- phen Stills, Neil Young and Richie Furay) recorded songs without the other members present. One of Furay’s solo songs was the country-influenced ballad ‘Kind Woman’, which he recorded with the help of producer/engineer/bassist Jim Messina and pedal steel guitarist Rusty Young. When Buffalo Springfield then split up, Furay, Messina and Young decided to start their own group oriented toward such songs. Poco’s famous first album, Pickin’ Up the Pieces (1969) was a landmark accomplishment. It set the stage and a high level of quality for the new country rock genre. Just as every rock’n’roll fan over sixty has a copy of the Beatles Sergeant Pepper, then everyone in that category has that first Poco album on vinyl. It’s a certified classic recording. In 1971, Poco realigned the band, hiring Steve Cropper as producer and then releasing the highly successful From the Inside, featuring Paul Cotton’s ‘Bad Weather,’ which became a signature song for the band. Producer, Jack Richardson then oversaw the next three albums beginning with A Good Feelin’ To Know (1972). During this era, the band racked up single hits and platinum selling albums. Over the years, Rusty has played with many musicians under the Poco banner. More years passed and new members came and went, with old members occasionally coming back to support the trademark. Former Poco alumni, Randy Meisner and Timothy B. Schmidt went on to play with the Eagles. When Meisner left the Eagles, they replaced him with Schmidt. In the 1980s, Poco released five more albums and struggled with changing markets. However, the band never lost its prime directive of quality songwriting. The fact that Poco has been around 40 years in one form or another is a testament to its continuing ability to deliver great songs. Cut to present day, the current Poco lineup includes Rusty Young, Paul Cotton, Jack Sundrud, and George Lawrence. Poco reunited in 2007 for a concert at the Wildwood Lodge in Steelville, Mis- souri. It subsequently became a CD titled The Wildwood Sessions. This record is for anyone who enjoys country rock played by the best musicians in the business. To catch up on the Poco legacy, I called Rusty at his log-home in Missouri where he lives com- fortably with his family. We chatted about today’s exciting Poco happenings. Rusty was cooking breakfast for his family and guests. “The Wildwood Sessions album was recorded off the board and it turned out so well we were astonished. So, we released it as a CD and it became a landmark record overnight. We just celebrated our 40th year of Poco. We had a concert here in Missouri with Richie Furay, Jim Messina, myself and Paul. It was quite a weekend. We videoed it and recorded it for posterity.” “When I started Poco, I was 22 years old. At that time, I never looked into the future. We were having fun and in Hollywood, California where there was camaraderie with all the early rockers. We were kicking off what we called L.A. country rock. There were the early stars like Graham Parker and others that went on to have great careers. The time has gone by in the blink of an eye. Now we are playing with a four piece band and we are having fun. Poco’s career is established and we are really comfortable with all the logistics of traveling and playing.” “Life is good, we just completed a log-home in the Mark Twain National Forest. It’s beautiful here, and as a matter of fact, I have a friend visiting from Nashville. Of course, all the former mem- bers of the early Poco went on to successful careers and we are all friends. My son (28) is visiting and my daughter (22) visited last month.” “Presently, I’m trying to finish my book on all my crazy experiences I’ve had in the music biz in the last 40 years, such as being backstage with Janis Joplin,” Rusty said. “For years, I’ve told friends these stories and they told me I should write a book.” Rusty sounds like a guy who has found peace of mind and withstood the test of time holding on to his Poco band. The reason is: Quality songwriting always endures. And when you say Poco, you’re talking classic country rock songs. Rusty Young and Poco will be performing at the Greater Jacksonville Fair on Thursday, Novem- ber 6.

26 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly where i’m from

Jason Michael Carroll by jim knight

Before he fell into a professional music career, Jason Michael Carroll’s only experience was singing in the church, where his father was minister. As a matter of fact, Pastor Carroll was dead set against secular music. Soon after Jason Michael moved out on his own, he was listening to the radio while working at a local hardware store when he heard about a talent contest. He decided to enter and won. That success and others caught the attention of Don Gehman, the producer of the multi-platinum album Cracked Rear View by Hootie & the Blowfi sh, and Pat Green’s Wave on Wave. Don took Jason Michael to Nashville where he met manager Rusty Harmon and the rest is history. Arista Nashville signed Jason Michael to a record deal and immediately started working on his fi rst album, Waitin’ in the Country. That album entered the country chart at #1, and it was #8 on the Billboard pop chart. His fi rst solo album produced 3 country hits, 2 of which were top 5 singles. One of those singles, ‘Alyssa Lies,’ was a powerful, moving song Jason Michael wrote about child abuse. ‘Livin’ Our Love Song’ and ‘I Can Sleep When I’m Dead’ were successful follow up singles. Songwriting is just as important to Carroll as performing is. He had origi- nally looked to write some songs with Rob Thomas of Matchox 20, but due to scheduling he ended up writing with Jewel and Shaye Smith, with whom he wrote songs for his debut album. Ideas for a song can strike at any time, so Carroll always carries a laptop everywhere he goes so that he can record and store ideas for his next hit. Currently he’s in the fi nal stages of choosing songs to go on his as yet untitled sophomore album. The fi rst single from that album, ‘Where I’m From’ (one of the few Carroll didn’t have a hand in writing) is already available to download online in boot- leg form. When not recording the songs that earned him the title of Top New Coun- try Artist of the Year, he lives in Raleigh, North Carolina with his family. He’s got four kids and still spends time with his two biggest fans- his mom and dad. Watch for Jason Michael Carroll’s sophomore album to be released in March or April of 2009. And don’t miss his concert at the Greater Jacksonville Fair on Monday night, November 3rd.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 27 KELLIE PICKLER will be worked out. Today, mc chris has amassed a rabid NOVEMBER 20 The Doobie Brothers As one of at the Veterans Memorial following with his blend of hip-hop fl avor and geek the most popular Californian pop/rock bands of the Arena on November 6th culture references. He’ll be in town on November ‘70s, the Doobie Brothers evolved from a mellow, 11th to perform at Jack Rabbits. Totally Michael and boogie band to a slick, soul-infl ected pop band by Jacksonville’s own Whole Wheat Bread will be there the end of the decade. Along the way, the group too. Tickets: $12/advance, $15/day of show. Jack racked up a string of gold and platinum albums in Rabbits, 398-7496 the US, along with a number of radio hits like ‘Listen to the Music,’ ‘Black Water’ and ‘China Grove.’ See NOVEMBER 8 Michael W. Smith and Steven Cur- them live at the Florida Theatre on the 20th. Tickets: tis Chapman The two most popular names in con- $49.50-$59.50. Florida Theater, 355-5661 temporary Christian music, Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman, are uniting for an evening NOVEMBER 26 Yankee Slickers Brothers and gui- at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Between the two tarists Paul and Jason Ivey formed the Yankee Slick- they’ve earned 91 Dove Awards and 6 Grammies. ers in 2005 and, after several incarnations, have Hallelujah! Tickets: $27.50-$47.50. St. Augustine found their sound. The Jacksonville locals specialize Amphitheatre, 471-1965 in dueling solos and interweaving lines that are ambitious and aggressive, providing a sound that is NOVEMBER 13 Owen Mike Kinsella is one of the sometimes Southern boogie, often funky and blue- dominant players in the Chicago indie scene, play- sy, occasionally bombastic power rock, yet always ing in multiple bands over the years including Joan honest. Tickets: $10. Mojo Kitchen (Jacksonville of Arc and American Football. Today, Mike’s solo Beach), 247-6636 project Owen is where his focus is and fans and critics alike are impressed with what he’s come up with on his own. Kinsella is cur- rently on tour with Rainer Maria’s Caithlin MISSY GOSSIP & THE DeMarrais and New York songstress El SECRET KEEPERS will be May and they’re headed our way. Tickets: at TSI on November 14th NOVEMBER 5 Metro Station Hannah NOVEMBER 6 Kellie Pickler American Idol dingbat $10. Café Eleven, 460-9311 (Owen will Montana may not be coming back to Kellie Pickler may not have a brain in her head but also perform on November 15th at Jack Jacksonville anytime soon but we’re she does have one heck of a voice. The sweet Rabbits. Tickets: $10/advance, $13/day getting the next best thing: her real life southern belle has released two albums since of show.) brother. Trace Cyrus’s band, Metro Sta- her stint on Idol and managed to snag three CMT tion, is coming to Plush this month. The awards earlier this year. She’ll perform at the Jack- NOVEMBER 14 16th Annual Taste the band recently hit it big with their single sonville Arena on the 6th with Ashton Shepherd and Muzyk The River City Band is kicking off ‘Shake It,’ which peaked in the top ten Sugarland. Tickets: $34.50-$46.50. Jacksonville their 25th Anniversary year in style with a of three US charts, and their self-titled Veterans Memorial Arena, 630-3900 star-studded event. The band will perform album made it all the way to number with Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman Johnny 1 on the US Electro chart. Cash Cash, NOVEMBER 7 mc chris In 2001 Brooklyn-based Van Zant at their annual Taste the Music Shwayze and Tyga will also perform. artist mc chris went from Adult Swim writer to rap- (now “Muzyk” in honor of their y-loving Tickets: $15-$50. Plush, 743-1845 per, an odd transition but one that seems to have guest) fundraiser. Proceeds from this november music events historic concert will go toward the band’s music education outreach. Tickets: $30- cafe 11’s 3rd annual big trunk show $1000. Metropolitan Park, 390-1999 Missy Gossip & the Secret Keepers Blending alt-country, gothic-Americana, Fashion-philes are uniting blues and indie rock are Atlanta-based the city’s growing contingent of Missy Gossip & the Secret Keepers, a up-and-coming fashion designers band that’s only been around for about in an up-close and personal look a year but have managed to earn one at the areas fashion infl uencers heck of a following at home and beyond. with music from DJ Dan, Fashion Besides an amazing, fresh sound, the Films and shopping featuring a fi ve-piece boasts something else the River range of jewelry, accessories and City will appreciate: their bass player is Jacksonville NOVEMBER 28 Saosin Saosin is a fi ve-piece from apparel from North Florida’s hot- native Mike Schmidt. Welcome Mike home when Newport Beach, California formed during the sum- test designers on November 20 at Missy Gossip & the Secret Keepers plays TSI with mer of 2003. The band is characterized by their Café Eleven. Danger Bear on November 14th. TSI, 424-3531 powerful, high-pitched vocals and melodic guitar This event is designed to put riffs and was called “a smart, utterly talented and the spotlight on designers and the NOVEMBER 14 -15 Cirque de la Symphonie perhaps even visionary unit that is rewriting the art of fashion. From artistic tees FLORIDA SCARVES Cirque nouveau-style acrobatics and artistry meet book in the 21st century” by AllMusic.com. The and unique scarves to delightful the full power of a symphony orchestra at Cirque de band released a live album earlier this year but hear- Florida style collections many of la Symphonie, a rewarding live show for the eyes ing it on your iPod is nothing like seeing them in the companies involved this year create their pieces by hand. It is often very satisfying to know that and the ears. Some of the best cirque artists in the person. Check them out at Fuel on the 28th. Tickets: something you are wearing was created by the actual artist with their very own blood, sweat, and world, including aerial fl yers, acrobats, contortion- $15. Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 tears going into every piece. This is a chance to meet these inspirational individuals, whom have de- ists, dancers, jugglers, balancers and strongmen, cided to create their own path in the world of fashion. will do their amazing, death-defying acts accom- NOVEMBER 29 Caribbean Sound- Benefi tting One of the big changes at this year’s show is the variety of apparel that will be offered. Over panied by our very own Jacksonville Symphony Patrons of the Hearts Since 1986 Caribbean Sound the last couple years, the designers have offered mainly women’s pieces at the Trunk show. How- Orchestra. Tickets: $26-$66. Times-Union Center: has enthralled their audiences with traditional Calyp- ever, seeing the immense demand for pieces for men and children, many designers this year have Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 so, Contemporary Classics and original composi- expressed their intent to offer full collections for both men and children at this year’s show. The 3rd tions for the steel pan, striking new territory with an Annual Big Trunk Show is sure to have something for everyone this year. And being so close to the NOVEMBER 18 The Gay Blades Making what was incredible sound and leaving audiences thirsting for holidays, it is an easy way to support local artists while taking care of all of your holiday shopping called “melodically addictive pop” by Alternative more. The band will be performing this month in a needs. Press, the Gay Blades are a two piece out of New concert to benefi t Patrons of the Hearts, a non-profi t Featured clothing designers include Rosa Loves, PaperRoot Clothing, Erin Healy Design, Bean York (or maybe New Jersey, no one really seems to that helps bring children with complex congenital Dip, Tara Ferreira Designs, House of Kilroy, Helton Hill, Florida Scarves, Peppermint June & Honey- know where) who signed with Triple Crown Records heart problems to Wolfson Children’s Hospital for well, Flirt with the Earth, Cassandra Rose LaMarca, Notti Clothing, Indi Loves Harlie and Jaxleigh. after rocking South By Southwest last year. The Gay medical treatment. Support this wonderful cause Jewelry and accessories by: Simple Gestures, MLHC Handbags and Mary Millsaps Jewelry. Blades will perform with Young Coyotes and Light- and see one terrifi c band on November 29th at the For more information call Café Eleven in St. Augustine, 904-463-9311. house Music on November 18th. Tickets: $6. Café Florida Theatre. Tickets: $25. Florida Theatre, 355- Eleven, 460-9311 5661 or patronsofthehearts.com

28 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly day-to-day NOVEMBER 5 Minus the Bear / Annuals / 27 Freebird Live, 246- NOVEMBER 1 BIRD Journey’s End Band / Bonehead Sally Studio 80 at Metro Station / Cash Cash / Shwayze / Tyga justin townes earle Bourbon Street Station, 641-8777 Plush, 743-1845 Allyria / Fixer / Down Jr. The Pit, 223-9850 Art Walk with the Symphony: Behind the Scenes

10 West / Antique Scream / Defi nition of an Izum on Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony Times-Union Cen- coming to Mojos Kitchen Nov. 12th by rick grant / Machine Critics / Afterglow Radio Jack Rabbits, ter: Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 398-7496 The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus and Tuba Modern troubadour, Justin Bryan Bowers European Street Listening Room, Player James Jenkins, Jr., First United Methodist Townes Earle travels the long 725-3929 Church, 225 East Duval St. road of gaining acceptance as an C1 Jazz Trio St. Johns Town Center, 642-8339 Holiday Parade / My Favorite Highway / Junior independent artist, defi ning his Chad Jasmine’s Bath Party Freebird Live, 246- Doctor / Out of Style Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 own sound and identity. Although BIRD Steve Earle is Justin’s father, he Ocean Club, 242-8884 NOVEMBER 6 Forsythe / Lift grew up with his mother, and only

Kellie Pickler / Ashton Shepherd / Sugarland decided to become a musician at NOVEMBER 2 Jacksonville Memorial Arena, 630-3900 age 14. So all the ballyhoo about A Cursive Memory / Go Crash Audio Jack Rabbits, Cruiserweight / The Pink Spiders / Mondo Primo 398-7496 Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Justin overcoming the shadow of UNF Chamber Singers perform Monteverdi: Josh Gracin Freebird Live, 246-BIRD his father is not really relevant. Vespers (1610) Church of the Good Shepherd, JSO: Beethoven No. 5 Times-Union Center: Jacoby In his teens, Justin was 387-5691 Hall, 354-5547 exposed to many infl uences Warsaw Philharmonic with Valentina Lisitsa, Lavilla Band and Orchestra recital Lavilla School but made his own contacts and Pianist UNF’s Lazzara Hall, 620-2864 of the Arts, 633-6069 musical friends in the biz. Now in Gram Parsons Tribute Concert Bo Diddley Com- Weaver and Caitlin Mellow Mushroom- Fleming his mid-20s, Justin has carved munity Plaza (Gainesville), (352) 334-ARTS Island, 541-1999 out a niche for himself as an Community Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band / Jonathan Apple- Gainesville Music Showcase: Country original singer/songwriter who seed Café Eleven, 460-9311 Plaza (Gainesville), (352) 393-8536 has melded his earlier music When Ashes Fall The Pit, 223-9850 Poco Jacksonville Fairgrounds, 353-0535 into a sound that is both old and Bobby Flynn Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595 Chris Sligh / Patrick Bass Murray Hill Theatre, 388-3179 new–simultaneously. His album NOVEMBER 3 The Good Life is a feast of old Mr. Al Children’s Concert Prime Osborn Conven- NOVEMBER 7 time country, ragtime, and moody tion Center, 630-4000 JSO: Beethoven No. 5 Times-Union Center: Jacoby ballads, impeccably recorded Ghost Buffalo The Pit, 223-9850 Hall, 354-5547 with Justin’s voice out front in Piano Concert with Dr. Gary Smart UNF Recital Hubert Rutkowski Friday Musicale, 355-7584 the mix. Hall, 620-2864 Box Seats, 908-7328 Captain Hook After a bout with drug ad- UNF’s Morton Feldman’s “For Samuel Beckett” Gainesville Music Showcase: Downtown Blues diction, Justin cleaned up and got Robinson Theater, 620-2864 Community Plaza (Gainesville), (352) 393-8536 serious about his songwriting tal- Airport Factory / In the Lovely Secret TSI, 424- NOVEMBER 4 3531 ent. Now clean and sober, Justin Badfi sh / Danka Freebird Live, 246-BIRD Pop Evil / Vaeda / Picture Show Freebird Live, tours either solo or with his duo partner, Cory Younts on banjo, mandolin, pedal steel, harmonica, Mr. Al Children’s Concert Prime Osborn Conven- 246-BIRD and keyboards. The Good Life is a memorable ten song collection that introduces Justin to listening tion Center, 630-4000 MC Chris / Whole Wheat Bread / Everything Mi- room audiences. UNF Chamber Orchestra - Dr. Simon Shiao, con- chael Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 To fi nd out more about this rising young artist , I called Justin at his new home outside of ductor UNF’s Robinson Theater, 620-2864 Harloe / Flood the City / His Name Was Iron / Nashville. Sleeping At Last Murray Hill Theatre, 388-3179 Words in Red / With These Wings / The Variant “As you said, its rough out on the road with the problems with the economy. Basically, I’m a Jack Rab- Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 Black Cobra / Dark Castle / Civilization Southern man who was raised by my mother and didn’t have much to do with my father until my bits, 398-7496 » continues on page 30 » late teens. I did play in my dad’s band but that didn’t work out. So, all that stuff in the press about me overcoming my dad’s shadow doesn’t apply to me. Still, I recognize that I have two famous singer/songwriters in my name: ‘Townes’ as in Townes Van Zandt and ‘Earle’ as in my dad, Steve minus the bear, annuals and 27 Earle. But it doesn’t put me under any pressure. I’ve always gone my own way.” One concert you don’t want to miss this month is “I just write my songs and they come out with my original sound, which is modern country The Annuals the show going down at Freebird Live on the 5th. First blues with ragtime infl uences. I just completed my new album, Midnight at The Movies, which is up will be 27, a female-fronted indie band out of Cam- darker, injecting ragtime rhythm with blues. It’s completely different from The Good Life. I didn’t bridge, Massachusetts. Comparisons to Fiona Apple, want to make an album like my last record. I want to move on. When I play with Cory as a duo, my Portishead and Regina Spektor have been plentiful, songs sound different because Cory may decide to play mandolin or pedal steel, giving each song a but 27 has a sound that meshes well with just about new sound.” everything. After touring with the likes of Robert Plant, “In , I intended to represent my songs the best I could. I picked a group of musi- Rasputina, Mastodon, Isis and Pelican, the band had The Good Life cians who were my friends and who I was confi dent would deliver what I wanted. It came out really won over indie, metal, punk and pop audiences alike. After that, Annuals will take to the stage. The well. But live, I like playing solo or with Cory as a duo. It keeps the expenses down and it’s easier to Raleigh six-piece recently toured with Bloc Party, The setup. But don’t get me wrong, I’d love to have my recording band with me, but that’s not possible Flaming Lips and Calexico and is out in support of their right now. Of course, the economy has severely limited my touring schedule.” sophomore album Such Fun. Blurring the lines between “I’m excited about going to Australia. My record has done well over there so it will be interest- pop-rock, country swings and orchestral ballads, An- ing to get the Aussie fans’ point of view. Lately, I’ve been going out on weekends and going home nuals’ sound continues to grow in new directions and because of the drop in bookings during the week. So, perhaps I’ll do better in Australia than the their live performances are said to be on par, if not States.” better, than their records. “As for my heritage thing, I’m proud of my family. I don’t deny my connections to my father. Finally, headliners Minus the Bear will perform. I respect him but I’ve always done my own thing. I do have the satisfaction of getting sober and After forming in 2001, the band earned a rapid and moving on with my own career. I’m blessed that I don’t crave drugs or alcohol anymore, so I feel rabid following with everyone from teeny boppers to middle-aged hipsters. Their army of fans continues to positive about the future.” That ended our enjoyable chat. Justin is a fi ne young man who is blazing his own trail in mu- grow with each new record. Their latest EP, Acoustics, will only be sold at venues during this tour and features sic. Justin will be performing live at Mojo’s Blues Kitchen on November 12th. It is located off Beach a new song, ‘Guns & Ammo.’ I told you that you won’t want to miss this one! Tickets are $17 in ad- Blvd. at the light just past Adventure Landing. He hasn’t yet decided whether to perform solo or with vance and $20 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets visit freebirdlive.com or call Cory as a duo at Mojos. 246-BIRD.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 29 String-Session Club Continental (Orange Park), (800) 877-6070 AHN TRIO at Flagler College Auditorium on November 16th Captain Hook Sticky Fingers (Atlantic Beach), 241-7449 Gainesville Music Showcase: Smooth Jazz Community Plaza (Gainesville), (352) 393-8536 Southern Crossing / Grandpa’s Cough Medicine Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Innerfazed Ocean Club, 242-8884 Ammo Nation / Chester the Malester & the Burnouts / The Kunts Doozers Pub, 738-8922

NOVEMBER 9 Passafi re / Wait for Green Freebird Live, 246-BIRD Unwed Sailor / Brother Mountain / Goot Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Michael Funge Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595

NOVEMBER 10 Murs Café Eleven, 460-9311 Pelican / Kayo Dot / Stephen Brodsky Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 When Worlds Collide with Michael Bovenzi UNF’s Recital Hall, 620-2864 Bleed the Sky / Soulfl y Freebird Live, 246-BIRD Phosphorescent TSI, 424-3531 The Midnight Life The Pit, 223-9850

Say Goodnight, Mean Goodbye / The Riff Raff / 2 Minute Wish Studebaker’s at Bourbon Street Station, 641-8777 Terrabota Band Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595

NOVEMBER 8 Michael W. Smith / Steven Curtis Chapman St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 471-1965 Lissajou / Telepathic Friend / Boy + Girl / Jamieson The Pit, 223-9850 Magic Slim and the Teardrops Mojo Kitchen (Jacksonville Beach), 247-6636 Outformation / Fifth South Freebird Live, 246-BIRD H2O / Bane / Cruel Hand / Energy Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 To Write Love on Her Arms Benefi t: Between the Trees / Nevertheless / Dan Evans / The Sophomore Attempt Murray Hill Theatre, 388-3179 JSO: 1001 Nights Times-Union Center: Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 Scott Watkins JU’s Terry Hall, 256-7345 Phosphorescent / Virgin Forest Café Eleven, 460-9311 Planet Fest 9: Hinder / Shinedown / Puddle of Mudd / Red Jumpsuit Appa- ratus / Rehab Metropolitan Park, 630-0837 METRO STATION will be at Plush on November 5th to write love on her arms NOVEMBER 11 Lotus / Seepeoples Freebird Live, 246-BIRD benefi t Teatro Lirico D’Europa: Carmen Times-Union Center: Moran Theater, 632- 3373 According to the World Health organization 121 million people suf- Margot and the Nuclear So and So’s / Wild Sweet Orange Jack Rabbits, fer from depression and it’s estimated that 20 percent of teenagers will 398-7496 experience depression by the time they reach adulthood. People deal with As Eden Burns / Free From Burden The Pit, 223-9850 depression in a number of ways, including self-medicating with drugs 25 Ta Life / Nasty Crew / Talk Sick Earth / Legacies / Fortitude Doozers or alcohol, self injury (such as cutting) or even suicide. In light of these Pub, 738-8922 staggering statistics and scary consequences, To Write Love on Her Arms formed in 2006 to provide hope and help to people suffering from depres- NOVEMBER 12 sion and its effects. Trans-Siberian Orchestra Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, 630-3900 The non-profi t organization was originally formed by Jamie Clarinet Studio Recital UNF’s Recital Hall, 620-2864 Tworkowski to help one person, 19 year old Renee Yohe who battled ad- Justin Townes Earle Mojo Kitchen (Jacksonville Beach), 247-6636 diction and attempted suicide on more than one occasion. Tworkowski Atavan / Forever in a Day Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 began selling t-shirts to help pay for her treatment and once members Dropkick Murphys Plush, 743-1845 from the bands Anberlin and Switchfoot started wearing them on stage, young people living with the same issues that plagued Renee contacted NOVEMBER 13 Jamie on his MySpace page. What began as an attempt to help one person Styx Florida Theatre, 355-5661 in Orlando quickly generated wide interest– to date, TWLOHA has heard Lavilla Vocal recital Lavilla School of the Arts, 633-6069 from young people in all 50 states as well as many from Canada, Mexico, Weaver and Caitlin Mellow Mushroom- Fleming Island, 541-1999 Australia and the United Kingdom, among others. Rafter Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 To Write Love on Her Arms has gained quite a bit of support from Owen / Caithlin DeMarrais / El May Café Eleven, 460-9311 well-known bands including U2, Paramore, Anberlin, Copeland, Switch- NeverSet / Echoes Through Chaos The Pit, 223-9850 foot, Evanescence and Jimmy Eat World. Local musicians Between the Trees, Nevertheless, Dan Evans and The Sophomore Attempt have also NOVEMBER 14 pledged their support to the cause and will be performing to raise money Maylene and the Sons of Disaster / Confi de / A Static Lullaby / Showbread for TWLOHA. The show is at the Murray Hill Theatre on November 8th. / Attack Attack! Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Be sure to bring some tobyMac Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, 630-3900 extra cash to pick up a shirt and further help this worthy cause. For more Tishamingo Mojo Kitchen (Jacksonville Beach), 247-6636 information on the show call 388-3179 or visit murrayhilltheatre.com. To The Black Crowes St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 471-1965 learn more about To Write Love on Her Arms go to twloha.com. 16th Annual Taste the Muzyk Metropolitan Park, 390-1999 Sumthin Else / Chrome Yellow / Twisted Affl iction The Pit, 223-9850

30 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly All From Within / The Doomsday Catalyst Dooz- er’s Pub, 738-8922 OWEN will be at Cafe Eleven on November 13th and Jack Mu Phi Epsilon Music - Honor Fraternity Recital Rabbits November 15th Friday Musicale, 355-7584 JSO: Cirque de la Symphonie Times-Union Cen- ter: Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 Beaches Fine Art Series: Irvin Mayfi eld and Raymond Markham St. Paul’s By-The-Sea Epis- copal Church, 270-1771 Riverside Fine Arts Series: Fireworks Ensemble Church of the Good Shepherd, 389-6222 Missy Gossip & the Secret Keepers / Danger Bear TSI, 424-3531 Putrid Pile / Cystic Dysentery / The Leviathans Mandible Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 C5 Band Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595

NOVEMBER 15 Chris Duarte Group Mojo Kitchen (Jacksonville Beach), 247-6636 mer Museum of Art & Gardens, 356-6857 Owen / Caithlin DeMarrais / El May Jack Rabbits, Opera Scenes JU’s Terry Hall, 256-7345 398-7496 Kids Like Us / Thick As Blood / Furious Styles / Lunatic Picnic Doozer’s Pub, 738-8922 Mongoloids Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 JSO: Cirque de la Symphonie Times-Union Center: Plague of Shadows / Out of Style / Misled Youth / Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 All in Honor The Pit, 223-9850 T’was the Flight Before Christmas with Aire Traf- Bobby Flynn Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595 fi c St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 471-1965 String-Session Cobalt Lounge (Casa Monica Hotel- NOVEMBER 17 St. Augustine), 827-1888 UNF Concert Band - Charlie Rankin, conductor The Architect Sound / Tragedy Hero / The Sopho- UNF’s Robinson Theater, 620-2864 more Attempt / Sent By Ravens Freebird Live, 246-BIRD NOVEMBER 18 Sworn to Silence / Twisted Affl iction Murray Hill UNF Wind Ensemble & UNF Percussion Ensemble Theatre, 388-3179 UNF’s Robinson Theater, 620-2864 Dr. Sam Beckett / Keylow & Dalgoz / The N Word Young Coyotes / Gay Blades / Lighthouse Music / Tough Junkie / Robin Bankz Fuel Coffeehouse, Café Eleven, 460-9311 425-3835 Bang Bang Boom The Pit, 223-9850 NOVEMBER 19 Shawn Fisher & The Jukebox Gypsies / Amber Vince Gill Florida Theatre, 355-5661 Rose / Say Goodnight, Mean Goodbye / Hill Val- The Toadies / People in Planes Jack Rabbits, 398- ley Ocean Club, 242-8884 7496 Bella Valore / Errison / Amen the Animal The Pit, NOVEMBER 16 223-9850 Von Iva / I Hope You’re a Doctor Jack Rabbits, JE1 Plays the Music of JE1 UNF’s Robinson The- 398-7496 ater, 620-2864 Ahn Trio Flagler College Auditorium, 797-2800 Mates of State / Brother Meade Freebird Live, JSYO: Fall Concert Times-Union Center: Jacoby 246-BIRD Hall, 354-5547 End of a Year / Defeater Doozers Pub, 738-8922 Cummer Concert Series: Augustin Hadelich Cum- » continues on page 32 » the black crowes There are few bands that rival the Black Crowes in timeless rock and roll. The Crowes began way back in 1984 when they were an Atlanta outfi t going by Mr. Crowes Garden. After a few years they changed their name, got signed and made their fi rst album, Shake Your Money Maker, a multi-platinum success that included hit singles like ‘Hard to Handle’ and ‘She Talks to Angels.’ The massive following the Black Crowes gained with that fi rst album in 1990 continued to grow with each new record and each chart-topping single. But during this time of prosperity, members of one of the country’s most celebrated bands be- gan running into problems. Among other set-backs, the group had a number of line-up changes and at one point was dropped from their record label. In 2002 the Black Crowes took a lengthy hiatus, much to the disappointment of their legions of fans. It’s been six years and now the Crowes are back with new members and new tunes. Their lat- est record Warpaint has received rave reviews across the board and the band has been on the road sharing their new music with the people who have been waiting so patiently for their rise from the ashes. The group is headed to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre this month for what will no doubt be considered one of the best concerts of the year. Tickets range in price from $30.50 to $38. For more information call the Amphitheatre at 471-1965.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 31 Ocean RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS will play at Planet Fest November 8th Diveplane / name:bran / None Like Us Saosin Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 Club, 242-8884 3OH3! / Innerparty System / Chain Gang of Unit Shifters / PineHill / Baker Act Doozers Pub, 1974 Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 738-8922 Pat Travers / RedLight / Twisted Lemon The Pit, 223-9850 NOVEMBER 23 Garden of State / One Last Rose The Pit, 223- NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 7 9850 Classic Patrick Showstoppers Limelight Theatre JU Ensembles JU’s Terry Hall, 256-7345 (St. Augustine), 825- 1164 or limelight-theatre. UNF Brass Ensemble: An Evening of Brass Church org of the Good Shepherd, 387-5691 Honey Chamber / Woven / Kingsbury Jack Rab- NOVEMBER 29 bits, 398-7496 Stick to Your Guns Fuel Coffeehouse, 425-3835 Michael Funge Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595 Caribbean Sound- Benefitting Patrons of the Hearts Florida Theatre, 355-5661 NOVEMBER 24 Green Eyed Stare The Underground, myspace. UNF Cummer Family Foundation Chamber Music com/theundergroundjax Series - Musicians from the JSO, winds & strings King of the Hill 2008 Semifinals 2 Murray Hill UNF Recital Hall, 620-2864 Theatre, 388-3179 Ashu Saxophone and Piano Duo Flagler College NOVEMBER 25 Auditorium, 797-2800 Quintron & Miss Pussycat Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Captain Hook Shellfish Grille & Lounge (St. Au- NOVEMBER 20 Klinch Freebird Live, 246-BIRD Percussion PLUS - Charlotte Mabrey, conductor gustine), 940-4700 Johnny Winter Freebird Live, 246-BIRD Hell Within / Hand to Hand / Dissonant The Pit, with Special Guest: Ney Rosauro, percussion Fear Before / Heavy Heavy Low Low / Dr. Man- Doobie Brothers Florida Theater, 355-5661 223-9850 UNF’s Robinson Theater, 620-2864 hattan Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 The Future Kings of Nowhere Doozer’s Pub, 738- Master Radical / We Still Dream / No Rest For Lavilla Orchestra Concert Lavilla School of the King of the Hill 2008 Semi #2: Don’t Sigh 8922 The Weary @ Studebakers at Bourbon Street Sta- Arts, 633-6069 Daisy / The Healing Process / The Abandoned / JSO: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto Times-Union tion, 641-8777 Twelve Left / The Timothy Ryan Project Murray Center: Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 Mosquitoes Band Culhane’s Irish Pub, 249-9595 NOVEMBER 26 Hill Theatre, 388-3179 Weaver and Caitlin Mellow Mushroom- Fleming ZoSo Freebird Live, 246-BIRD My Own Sin / Fast Taker The Pit, 223-9850 Island, 541-1999 NOVEMBER 22 Yankee Slickers Mojo Kitchen (Jacksonville First Hit / The Pullout / Moodhosa Ocean Club, John Prine Florida Theatre, 355-5661 Beach), 247-6636 242-8884 NOVEMBER 21 Temple 8 The Underground, myspace.com/theun- HR / Valient Thor / Outlaw Nation Jack Rabbits, Jacksonville Pipers & Drums Culhane’s Irish Mannheim Steamroller Times-Union Center: Mo- dergroundjax 398-7496 Pub, 249-9595 ran Theater, 633-6110 JSO: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto Times-Union JSO: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto Times-Union Center: Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 NOVEMBER 27 NOVEMBER 30 Center: Jacoby Hall, 354-5547 Boyce Avenue / Amelia / Patrick Bass Jack Rab- Weaver and Caitlin Mellow Mushroom- Fleming ARIAS Black Time Dinner and Concert featuring Riverside Guitar Quartet Friday Musicale, 355- bits, 398-7496 Island, 541-1999 the JSO Amelia Island Plantation, 261-0105 7584 Coming This Fall Murray Hill Theatre, 388-3179 Supervillains / Alex Baugh & the Crazy Carls / NOVEMBER 28 Dirty Heads Jack Rabbits, 398-7496

UPCOMING SHOWS

Jason Mraz Dec. 2, Florida Theatre, 355- 2787 Delbert McClinton Dec. 5, Florida Theatre John Nemeth Dec. 10, Mojo Kitchen, 247-6636 Jeff Dunham Dec. 13, Jacksonville Arena Men & Women of Courage featuring Stedman Graham Dec. 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Peter White Christmas Dec. 16, Florida Theatre, 355-5661 JASON MRAZ Last Comic Standing Live Tour Dec. 26, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Classic Albums Live: the Who: Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi Who’s Next Feb. 18, Florida Theatre, 355- Dec. 27, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 2787 Classic Albums Live: the Eagles: Arlo Guthrie Feb. 26, Florida Theatre, 355- Hotel California Jan. 24, Florida Theatre, 5661 355-2787 Monster Jam Feb. 28 Jacksonville Arena, Leo Kottke Jan. 25, Florida Theatre, 355- 630-3900 2787 Hotel California: A Salute to the Eagles Jan. 28, Jacksonville Arena, 353- Eagles March 3, Times-Union Center, 633- 3309 6110 Art Garfunkel & The Jacksonville Classic Albums Live: the Beatles: Symphony Feb. 8, St. Augustine Abbey Road March 25, Florida Theatre, Amphitheatre, 471-1965 355-2787 Bill Gaither and Friends Feb. 13, Classic Albums Live: the Doors: the Jacksonville Arena Doors April 18, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

32 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly jacksonville jazz on the road The St. Johns River City Band by daniel goncalves, danielgoncalves.com

Who is Jacksonville’s offi cial band? The St. Johns River City Band. Actually, they’re also the offi cial band for the Sunshine State (that’s Florida for you cocoon dwellers). Their “big band” is pulled from a pool of about 50 professional musicians for their performances. Diantha Grant, executive director of the band says “the mission of the St. Johns River City Band is to keep jazz and other American music alive through performance and education.” The group is part of the “State Touring Program,” which allows the band to perform for schools and has taken the band to various parts of Florida with it’s Salute to the Big Bands, Yuletide Swing, and other programs. The program is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. Some of the band’s gigs include the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and Premier Party, Seawalk Pavilion, Flagler Auditorium, and other venues throughout the State of Florida. The Big Band performs in schools, teaching students about improvisation, jazz, swing, blues, Latin, and other music concepts. On December 19, 2003, the St. Johns River City Big Band performed the closing concert of the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Illinois. I was recently invited to join the gang on a trip to Madison, Florida where they played for the North Florida Community College. It was a photo by daniel goncalves long drive to and from Madison, which gave me a chance to get to know these fi ne musicians while they welcomed me into their circle. They truly are a class act. There was bantering and teasing from some of the guys of the numbers they played included, Isham Jones’ ‘It had to (mostly JB Scott, trumpet) and a sense of friendship in the group. There be you’, Neil Fefti’s ‘ Shiny Stockings,’ and ‘Florida, Where the was a good crowd at NFCC’s Van H. Priest Auditorium and once they got Sawgrass Meets the Sky.’ All were sung by an amazing vocalist, started, they owned the audience. They were swingin’ and jiving! Some Lisa Kelly. Music director, and bass trombonist Chris Crewswell says it’s a tight knit group with a lot of history. Chris mentioned that many of the players in the band were his professors in college. After college he ventured out to New York and then Los Angeles. When he moved back to Jacksonville he became a member of the band and when the position opened up for music director, he applied and got it. The River City Band is celebrating their 25th anniversary in November. What do you do on your birthday? You throw a party. They’re throwing a big one on November 14th under the stars with Taste The Muzyk – Tribute to Lynyrd Skynrd concert and food event. Valerie Segraves of WEJZ is the emcee and featuring entertainment by River City Fusion…and maybe a special guest. The event will be staged at Metropolitan Park’s Pavilion and the band hopes to raise money for their music education outreach. VIP Tickets - $125, General Admission Tickets - $60, Premium Stage Tickets Available – Please call for pricing. Tickets: 390- 1999 or rivercityband.com The band also plans on releasing a 25th anniversary CD. Make sure you come out and celebrate a great accomplishment photo by daniel goncalves while dancing under the stars.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 33 all shook up

Alhambra Dinner Theatre review by dick kerekes

I saw the gala performance of the Elvis Presley inspired musical All It was great to have Kelly Adkins back on the Alhambra stage Shook Up recently. This was the North Florida premier of this musical. (she’s a veteran of over 30 shows), and she is the sexiest curator of a I found it to be exhilarating, spirited, truly charming and clever, with a museum you will ever see anywhere! Wow, I had forgotten what a mar- first class cast of wonderful singers and dancers and a plot that seemed velous voice she has. to move well in and out of the 24 Elvis songs in the show. If you are an Conrad De’Andrea is another Alhambra favorite and, besides be- Elvis fan (they seem to everywhere from age 8 to 80), you will enjoy a ing the dance captain for this production, has some funny moments as story that has heart but doesn’t take itself too seriously. In these ner- Sheriff Earl in the surprise conclusion of the show. vous times that are ‘All Shook Up,’ it is an evening of pure fun; a feel- You will recognize Joey Panek from two previous Alhambra shows good show that audiences can’t help falling in love with. (Moon Over Buffalo & Little Shop of Horrors). He plays wonderfully the No, this is not a biography of Elvis, but uses some of his hit songs nerd Dennis, and gives us a lesson in double takes and facial expres- woven into a story that slightly resembles the King. The plot involves sions. He also displays wonderfully trained singing in ‘It Hurts Me.’ an Elvis-like roustabout named Chad (engagingly played by Alhambra What is an Alhambra production without Tony Triano? I don’t know, newcomer, Clint Clark) who drives his motorcycle into this small mid- he appears in most of them and is always outstanding. He plays Jim, western town that is burdened by the Mamie Eisenhower Decency Act a widowed mechanic and father of Natalie. He is lonely and looking for that prohibits dancing, necking and interracial relationships. It was en- love and since this play has happy ending, he finds it. acted by the uptight Mayor Hyde (played in a great comic performance You will see some very unique statues when Sandra sings ‘Let by Lisa Valdini) but Chad teaches the town how to rock, and several Yourself Go’ in Act I. I would tell you more, but I don’t want to spoil romances develop using ideas that will remind you of Shakespeare’s your fun. Just pay close attention for this unique bit of staging by Direc- Romeo and Juliet and Twelfth Night. There is a bit of gender bending, tor Booth. This energetic cast is rounded out by Adonis Boyd, Ashley disguises and assorted love matches but don’t worry, the language is Monet, Michelle Myers, Sarah Sanders and Jeremy Williams. good ole boy American lingo. Most of the action takes place on an open stage with a few set If you are an Alhambra regular, you have probably noticed that pieces rolled on (gas pump, juke box, lunch counter and tables). Sce- director/producer Tod Booth always has excellent leads in all of his pro- nic Designer David Dionne has decorated the outside wall of the stage ductions. What may have escaped your attention is how much consider- opening with six large black and white photos of important news events ation he gives to supporting cast and the entire ensemble. In All Shook of the l950s. During the intermission or before the show, walk down by Up every role is cast to perfection, with tremendous vocal strength that the stage and see if you can identify these famous scenes. brings all the music to life. The cast is top-notch in the comedy depart- I am not a fan of musical revues where just songs from an artist ment as well, and I found this show even funnier than the last Alhambra or period are done. I like a little plot, so this jukebox musical was to my offering, Moon Over Buffalo. liking and certainly was a big hit with the always involved and clapping Katie Scott is hilarious as Natalie, the mechanic that falls for Chad, gala audience. Elvis did 31 movies and recorded about 700 songs over but disguises herself as a man to try to win his affection. his career and this is a sample of some of his best numbers. Joe Dipiet- The Romeo and Juliet like couple is played by La’Tarsha Long and ro, of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, wrote the book that used Jared Miller, and their duet ‘Its Now or Never’ will send shivers up your 24 of Elvis’s songs like ‘Heartbreak Hotel,’ ‘Jail House Rock,’ ‘Love Me spine. Ms. Long played Maria in the recent Alhambra/Jacksonville Sym- Tender,’ ‘Hound Dog’ and ‘Teddy Bear’ just to name a few. phony production of West Side Story and received rave reviews about You will laugh a lot; tap you feet a lot (guaranteed!) when you see her performance. All Shook Up. Even if you are not a hard-core Elvis fan, you will abso- You are going to love Shirley Tripp, who plays Sylvia owner of lutely have a good time and love this show. the soda shop. Making her Alhambra debut, Ms. Tripp’s rendition of All Shook Up runs through November 30. Call 641-1212 for in- ‘There’s Always Me’ was one of the many show stopping numbers in formation and reservations ‘Don’t be Cruel,’ put on your ‘Blue Suede Act II. Shoes’ and ‘Let Yourself Go’ at the Alhambra Dinner Theatre.

34 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly Thru Nov. 30 All Shook Up Somewhere in middle America one girl’s dream and a surprise Nov. 16 JU Opera Scenes After an in-depth visit from a mysterious guitar-playing stranger will lead a small town to discover the magic of study of selected operas exploring move- romance and the power of rock & roll. This irresistible new musical features 24 legendary El- ment, acting, and the works within their cul- vis classics. Read EU’s review on page 34. Alhambra, 641-1212 alhambradinnertheatre.com tural context, students present an entertain- ing exploration of the operatic world through Thru Nov. 9 Woman in Black A lawyer hires an actor to reenact the haunting story of a mys- the eyes - and the voices - of tomorrow’s terious woman in black that terrifi es the locals. They believe that anyone who sees her dies! A stars. Jacksonville University, Terry Concert classic of the genre. Hippodrome, Gainesville, 352-375- 4477 thehipp.org Hall at 2:30 pm, 256-7345 arts.ju.edu

Thru Nov. 2 Ragtime This Tony Award winning musical paints a nostalgic and powerful Nov. 20 – 22 Kiss Me, Kate Combine Cole portrait of life in turn of the century America. Based on E.L. Doctorow’s distinguished novel, Porter’s music, a dose of Shakespeare, two Ragtime intertwines three stories illustrating history’s timeless contradictions of wealth and gangsters and a contentious love story to poverty, freedom and prejudice, hope and despair, and love and hate. Jacksonville University, get the classic Kiss Me, Kate! Tickets: $15 Swisher Theater, 256-7345 ju.edu Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, 346- 5620 ext. 122 da-arts.org Oct. 30 – 31 The Fairly Big Broadcast of 1937 A parody of Orson Welles’ “War of the Worlds” broadcast on Halloween, 1938, it will have its “world premiere” on the 70th anni- Nov. 22 The Pajama Game Bright and riot- versary of Welles’ original broadcast. Playwright Steve Bailey is also the director. Local jazz ously funny, this fast-paced, frisky tale is all- singer and recording artist Dot Wilder will co-star. Main stage. Alantic Beach Experimental new production of this Tony Award winning, Theatre, Atlantic Beach, 249-7177 abettheatre.com $20 Broadway smash hit. The feisty employee representative has found her match in the Oct. 31 - Nov. 9 All’s Well That Ends Well A romantic story by Shakespeare about betrayal, pajama shop superintendent and when the misunderstanding, and secret love $10.00 Flagler College Auditorium, St. Augustine, (904) two get together, they wind up discussing a 826-8600 whole lot more than job functions! For solid

theatre events musical comedy, it’s hard to beat The Pa- Oct. 31 - Nov. 15 Anatomy of Gray When June’s father dies, she prays for a healer to come jama Game. University of North Florida, Fine to the small town of Gray. The next thing she knows, there’s a tornado, and a man in a balloon Arts Center, 7:30 pm, (904) 620-2878 unf. blows into town claiming to be a doctor. At fi rst, the new doctor cures anything and every- edu/fi neartscenter thing, but soon the town’s preacher takes ill with a mysterious plague. Anatomy of Gray deals with death, loss, love, and healing in a unique coming of age story. Theatre Jacksonville, 396- Nov. 26 – 30 Annie The timeless tale of UNF Fine Arts Center “The Pajama Game” 4425 theatrejax.com Little Orphan Annie is back, giving a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope. Boasting one of Oct. 31 - Nov. 22 Sly Fox Sly is dying (or so it seems) and everyone wants to be the heir to Broadway’s most memorable scores, including ‘It’s the Hard-Knock Life,’ ‘Easy Street,’ ‘N.Y.C.’ and the his fortune. In order to get as much as possible from all the sycophants, he promises each of ever-optimistic ‘Tomorrow,’ Annie is a delightful theatrical experience for the entire family. Thrasher-Horne, them his fortune. The twist at the end will amuse everyone. Orange Park Community Theatre, Orange Park. Info: 276-6750 Orange Park, FL 276-2599 opct.org Nov. 29 Carlos Mencia Carlos Mencia, a self-proclaimed “equal opportunity offender” and the host of his Nov. 6 Florida Forum Presents Dennis Miller Considered to be one of the most astute, ce- very own Comedy Central show Mind of Mencia, will have people rolling in the aisles with his take-no-pris- rebral and clever standup comedians, Dennis Miller hosts a daily self-titled radio program, is a oners brand of comedy. Tickets: $42.50 Times-Union Center, 7 pm, 633-6110 commentator on “The O’Reilly Factor” and currently hosts NBC’s “Amnesia.” Florida Theatre, 7 pm, 355-2787 or 353-3309, fl oridatheatre.com

Nov. 6 – 8 No Exit A play by Jean Paul Sartre, French. Existentialism: “l’enfer, c’est les au- tres” produced by the Film Program. Jacksonville University, (P-19) Studio Theater, 256-7345 ju.edu

Nov. 8 The Florida Ballet – Watch the Body Talk The Fairest of Them All is a well loved tale of Snow White with a modern twist. Premiers of 4 Sea Interludes is inspried by the music of Benjamin Britten and Jacksonville’s waterways with choreography by Laurie Picinich-Byrd. Florida Theatre, 7:30 pm, Info: 355-2787

Nov. 11 Carmen Bizet’s Carmen is set in Seville in the mid 19th Century where soldier Don Jose falls in love with the beautiful Carmen, a free spirited gypsy and his obsession with her leads to a crime of passion. FCCJ Artist Series, Jacksonville’s Times-Union Center, 7:30 pm 632-3373 or 1-888-860 artistseries.fccj.org

Nov. 13 Jerry Seinfeld Jerry Seinfeld is coming back to Jacksonville, not that there’s any- thing wrong with that. For 10 years, Seinfeld was at the center of the television show that bore his name, one of the most successful comedies in TV history. Tickets: $45-$75. Times-Union Center, 7 pm, 633-6110

Nov. 13 – 16 Holy Ghosts Nancy Shedman has just fl ed her husband of one year to join a group of Pentecostal Christians offering her sanctuary in their farmhouse-church. Disillu- sioned by a childless marriage punctuated by beatings and drunkenly ineffectual lovemaking, Nancy has left home with her husband’s furniture, possessions, and pickup truck. FloArts Main Stage Florida School of the Arts, Palatka, Florida, 386- 312-4300 fl oarts.org

Nov. 13 – 23 Is He Dead? In this newly discovered Mark Twain comedy, the original master of American humor dishes out a sly critique of the art world with acerbic wit and social com- mentary well ahead of his time. Is He Dead? is a fast-paced play about a struggling artist who stages his own death to drive up the price of his paintings. Adapted by David Ives. FCCJ South Campus, Wilson Center for the Arts, 646- 2222 fccj.edu/campuses/south/wilson/events.html

Nov. 13 - 23 The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds This disturbing Pulitzer prize winning play by science teacher Paul Zindel looks at the dysfunctional family-re- lationship between a mother and her two daughters. Flagler College Auditorium, St. Augustine, (904) 826-8600

Nov. 14 – 22 Fall Dance Concert Swisher Theatre on the campus of JU. Jacksonville Univer- sity, 2800 University Blvd. N, Info: 256-7374

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 35 The Mud Boy

latino fi lm

festival by jon bosworth “Jacksonville lacks alternative cinema,” Jesse Rodriguez, Director of the Jacksonville Film Events Of- fi ce, tells me from in front of one of the venues of the Chicago International Film Festival between screen- ing fi lms. Chicago is Rodriguez’ hometown and the Chicago International Film Festival was his passion for many of his formative years. This year, it’s 44th year, it is the oldest competitive fi lm festival in the US. It is also the fi rst year of implementing the concept of a “Festival Village,” a concept Rodriguez brought the Jacksonville International Film Festival back in February of this year when he accepted the job of Director. When he saw how spread out Jacksonville was, he immediately felt people needed the opportunity to park, get out of their cars, and enjoy a night on the town. So he arranged the majority of the venues to be located in central Downtown. But one week wasn’t enough. He and the Jacksonville Film Events offi ce’s only other employee, Christopher Ackerman, wanted to bring that experience to Jacksonville all year. And so was born the idea of a cinematheque in Downtown Jacksonville. “This will be someplace where people can make one stop to have dinner, see a fi lm, have cocktails and go dancing, all within step of each other. And it’s a spectacular space with a full river view.” The space he is referring to is the new venue in the Jacksonville Landing that the inaugural year of the Viva Cinema Latino Film Festival will offi cially unveil on November 15th. A small, multi-screen digital movie theater that accommodates about 80 people. “We are trying very hard to have a theater downtown. This is something we feel very strongly about. We shared this idea with Tony Sleiman (owner of the Landing) and he was very excited about it.” After some consternation and deliberation, they arrived at what was formerly called The Blue Room above the old Southend Brewery. The cinematheque will be a digital theatre and lounge, where visitors could have cocktails before, after and during the fi lm. “Our goal is to use the Latino Film Festival as a test and see if we could make it a year-round venue for alternative cinema.” Rodriguez has already been in touch with Miramax, Weinstein Films and Film Movement about host- ing exclusive premieres in the new venue and all have shown interest. Rodriguez had been involved with the Jacksonville Film Fest since its beginning, selecting and acquir- ing the fi lms for the Viva Cinema programs of the annual Jacksonville Film Fest. That limited program only allowed him to show a few fi lms, but he was screening many high quality Latin fi lms that he wasn’t able to show. He simultaneously noticed growing support for the Latin fi lm selections, as well as the growing number of Latinos in Northeast Florida. So back in February, when he accepted the position of Director, he set to programming a festival that served a wider audience than previous festivals had. He found that the patrons of the fi lm festival were passionate about their love of fi lm, hungry for more of it, and loyal to the festival if it was willing to deliver. Suddenly Rodriguez feels he can’t deliver the fi lms fast enough. While in Chicago he is looking for fi lms for the Jacksonville Film Fest in May of next year as well as for the MOCA Film Series and even next year’s Viva Cinema. Chicago is also his home, so he is trying to squeeze in some family time between planning the Viva Cinema Latino Film Festival in Jacksonville and is screening fi lms most of every afternoon and evening. Viva Cinema is happening from November 14th through 16th. On opening night there will be a cocktail reception and then the fi rst fi lm will be presented in the auditorium at the Main Branch Library. On Saturday Because of Winn Dixie with Spanish subtitles will play as part of the Books Alive partnership. The remain- ing fi lms will screen at the cinematheque in the Landing. Rodriguez is especially excited about The Mud Boy. A fi lm from Argentina, this dark period piece is based on a true story. Dance of My Heart is another fi lm he highly recommends. The true story of one of

36 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly the co-founders of the Cuban National Ballet, the subject of Dance, lived his last years in Gainesville teach- ing ballet at Sante Fe Community College. He choreographed some of the most famous ballets in the world. Filmgoers should also look out for the directorial debut of Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal. These rising Latin stars (see Y Tu Mama Tambien) have formed their own fi lm company in Mexico and will be showcasing their directorial debut at the Viva Cinema Latino Film Festival. “We’re really excited Winn Dixie has come on board as a presenting sponsor. Their commitment and understanding that this is important is what is making this possible.” Winn-Dixie is the presenting sponsor of Viva Cinema, Regions Bank and Sleiman Enterprises are also important sponsors of the fi rst festival outside the annual JFF in May. Jacksonville Film Festival board members, Susan Duss and Susan Schantz, have also been instrumental supporters of the Viva Cinema Latin Film Festival. Unlike the May festival, the programming of Viva Latino is strictly Latin fi lms, but they don’t want to stop there. “I hope to also bring a gay and lesbian fi lm festival as well as a black fi lm festival.”

Soy Andina These are certainly some underserved communities in the old South, but Rodriguez says he sees the evidence that Jacksonville is ready for these evolutions. “From what I’ve seen in my time in Jacksonville, it is certainly a refl ection of any metropolitan city, there just aren’t as many people. Bigger cities have more venues showcasing a variety of fi lms, but the people in town that do like alternative fi lm are hungry and they’re loyal. Movies are for everybody and we feel it is a function of the Jacksonville Film Events offi ce to bring fi lms that are foreign, controversial or even offensive to some. We have to provide fi lm for everyone.” The Viva Cinema Jacksonville Latino Film Fest is starting small, but has big dreams. Every night of the festival you can also expect entertainment at the Landing. From ballet to Brazilian dancing to opera, the nights will showcase a wide spectrum of Latino talent right here in Jacksonville, while showcasing Latin fi lms that are already making waves in the fi lm world. “We expect a lot of students and a wide spectrum of people. It’s about breaking stereotypes.” While Rodriguez and Ackerman hack away at turning downtown Jacksonville into a cosmopolitan utopia, you can take advantage of their efforts by attending Viva Cinema and seeing if foreign fi lms in a cinematheque is your thing. While many are partial to a Hollywood big-budget fi lm at the megaplex, in a city of more than a million, there is no doubt that many are under-served. So alternative cinema may be exactly what Jacksonville needs to cultivate its fi lm community and breath life back into our cultural scene. “These happen to be Latin fi lms, but they are fi lms that anyone would enjoy.”

Art of Style

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 37 OCTOBER 31 ZACK & MIRI MAKE A PORNO HAUNTING OF MOLLY HARTLEY What would Halloween be without at least one horror-thriller, but this one is suspicious for being pretty lame as a teenage girl discovers that her parents made a pact with the devil to save her life. Molly Hartley (Bennett) looks to put her troubled past behind her with a fresh start at a new school, where she sparks with one of the most popular students (Crawford). But can her secrets stay buried, especially as she learns more about the horrifi c truth that awaits her once she turns 18? When the devil comes to collect, terrible things begin to happen and she must fi gure out if and how she can save herself. This is Mickey Lidell’s directorial debut and stars actors Haley Bennett and Chace Crawford. Rated PG-13

ROCK N ROLLA When a Russian mobster orchestrates a crooked land deal, millions of dollars are up for grabs, and all of London’s criminal underworld wants in on the action. Everyone from a dangerous crime lord to a sexy accountant, a corrupt politician and down-on-their-luck petty thieves conspire, collude and collide with one another in an effort to get rich quick. Starring: Gerard Butler, Tom Wilkinson, Thandie Newton, Idris Elba and Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges. Rated R

ZACK & MIRI MAKE A PORNO Lifelong platonic friends Zack (Rogen) and Miri (Banks) look to solve their respective cashfl ow problems by directing and starring in their own adult fi lm. Kevin Smith (Dogma, Clerks, Jay & Silent Bob) helms this laugh fest with Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks in the title roles. Rated R zackandmiri.com

NOVEMBER 7 MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA When Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria, King Julien, Maurice along with the penguins and the chimps fi nd themselves marooned on the distant shores of Madagascar the zoo crew has to endure. In the face of this obstacle, the New Yorkers have hatched a plan so crazy it just might work. With military precision, the penguins have repaired which blackmailed Vesper is far more complex and dangerous than anyone had imagined. Forensic intel- an old crashed plane- sort of. Once aloft, this unlikely crew stays airborne just long enough ligence links an Mi6 traitor to a bank account in Haiti where a case of mistaken identity introduces Bond to make it to the wildest place of all- the vast plains of Africa, where the members of our to the beautiful but feisty Camille (Olga Kurylenko), a woman who has her own vendetta. Camille leads november movies zoo-raised crew encounter species of their own kind for the very fi rst time. Africa seems like Bond straight to Dominic Greene (Mathieu Amalric), a ruthless business man and major force within the a great place…but is it better than their Central Park home? Starring: Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, mysterious organization. From Austria, Italy and South America, Bond discovers that Greene, conspiring to David Schwimmer, Jada Pinkett Smith, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric The Entertainer, Andy take total control of one of the world’s most important natural resources, is forging a deal with the exiled Richter, Bernie Mac, Sherri Shepherd, Alec Baldwin and Will.i.am. Rated PG dreamworksani- General Medrano (Joaquin Cosio). Using his associates in the organization, and manipulating his powerful mation.com contacts within the CIA and the British government, Greene promises to overthrow the existing regime in a Latin American country, giving the General control of the country in exchange for a seemingly barren piece of land. Bond allies with old friends in a battle to uncover the truth. As he gets closer to fi nding the man responsible for the betrayal of Vesper, 007 must keep one step ahead of the CIA, the terrorists and even M, BOLT to unravel Greene’s sinister plan and stop his organization. Rated PG-13 007.com

NOVEMBER 21 BOLT For super-dog Bolt, every day is fi lled with adventure, danger and intrigue- at least until the cameras stop rolling. When the canine star of a hit TV show is accidentally shipped from his Hollywood soundstage to New York City, he begins his biggest adventure yet- a cross-country journey through the real world. Armed only with the delusions that all his amazing feats and powers are real, and with the help of two unlikely traveling companions- a jaded, abandoned housecat named Mittens and TV-obsessed hamster in a plastic ball named Rhino- Bolt discovers he doesn’t need superpowers to be a hero. Featuring voices of: John Travolta, Miley Cyrus and Susie Essman. Rated PG

TWILIGHT Based on the #1 New York Times Best-Selling series by Stephenie Meyer, this fi lm is a cultural phenomenon, with a dedicated fan base that eagerly awaits this movie. Bella Swan has always been a little bit different, never caring about fi tting in with the trendy girls at her Phoenix high school. When her SOUL MEN The two remaining members of the popular soul band, The Real Deal, Floyd mother re-marries and sends Bella to live with her father in the rainy little town of Forks, Washington, she Henderson (Samuel L. Jacksonb), now a retired businessman, and ne’er-do-well, ex-convict, meets the mysterious and dazzlingly beautiful Edward Cullen, a boy unlike any she’s ever met. Edward is a Louis Hinds (Bernie Mac), take a road trip to the Apollo Theater for a musical tribute to their vampire, but he doesn’t have fangs and his family is unique in that they choose not to drink human blood. recently deceased front man, Marcus Hook. As they travel cross country in a series of adven- Intelligent and witty, Edward sees straight into Bella’s soul. Soon, they are swept up in a passionate, thrill- tures and misadventures, they air old grievances about thirty year old betrayals and learn the ing and unorthodox romance. But what will Edward & Bella do when a clan of new vampires -- James, music’s still in them and agree to participate in a reunion performance at the Apollo Theater Laurent and Victoria -- come to town and threaten to disrupt their way of life? Starring: Kristen Stewart, to honor their recently deceased band leader. This is Bernie Mac’s last fi lm which is directed Robert Pattinson, Billy Burke, Peter Facinelli, Elizabeth Reaser, Cam Gigandet, and Nikki Reed Rated PG-13 by Malcolm D. Lee (The Best Man & Spike Lee’s bro). It also stars Sharon Leal (Dreamgirls). twilightthemovie.com Rated R soulmen-movie.com NOVEMBER 26 ROLE MODELS Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott star as Danny and Wheeler, two fast talk- ing energy drink salesmen. After one of their sex and beer romps gets out of hand, a pair of AUSTRALIA Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat (Nicole Kidman) who thirty-something perpetual frat boys are forced to sign up to be Big Brothers at Sturdy Wings, inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man (Hugh Jackman) in order to protect her new a troubled kids camp, as part of their court-mandated community service. The court gives property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they expe- them a choice: do hard time or spend 150 service hours with a mentorship program. After one rience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces fi rsthand. australiamovie.com day with the kids, however, jail doesn’t look half bad. Danny and Wheeler are forced to tailor their brand of immature wisdom to their charges. And if they can just make it through proba- TRANSPORTER 3 Jason Statham returns as Frank Martin, the ex-Special Forces operative who specializes tion without getting thrown in jail, the world’s worst role models will prove that, sometimes, it in high-risk deliveries. Starring: Jason Statham, Francois Berléand and Robert Knepper. Rated PG-13 takes a village idiot to raise a child. Rated R FOUR CHRISTMASES During the holiday things can get complicated and reindeer drops hit the fan in this comedy about a married couple Kate and Brad (Witherspoon and Vaughn) fi nd themselves socked in by NOVEMBER 14 fog on Christmas morning and have to postpone an island vacation and decide to celebrate and attend four QUANTUM OF SOLACE This Bond edition continues Daniel Craig’s 007 high-octane adven- relative-choked festivities. As Brad counts the hours to when he can get away from their parents, step-par- tures of James Bond. Known for his irresistible charms, James is astonished when he is be- ents, siblings and an assortment of nieces and nephews, Kate is starting to hear the ticking of a different trayed by Vesper, the woman he loved. Pursuing his determination to uncover the truth, Bond kind of clock. And by the end of the day, she is beginning to wonder if their crazy families’ choices are not and M (Judi Dench) interrogate Mr White (Jesper Chistansen) who reveals the organization so crazy after all. Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Vince Vaughn and Mary Steenburgen. Rated PG-13

38 NOVEMBER 2008 | eu jacksonville monthly special movie showings TRAIL OF TEARS : CHEROKEE LEGACY Nov. 3 Monthly meeting of Jacksonville’s chapter of The International Laurel & Hardy Apprecia- tion Society Movies to be screened at the meeting: a Popeye cartoon, Brotherly Love, L&H short Come Clean, L&H feature fi lm Pack Up Your Troubles. Pablo Creek Library, 13295 Beach Blvd. 6:30 to 8:15 pm. Info: 246-0312 or leaveemlaughingtent.com

Nov. 3 The 2008-2009 Southern Circuit Tour Of Independent Filmakers Southern Circuit provides a unique program where independent fi lmmakers and their fi lms travel to communities throughout the South. The Wet Season & Other Experimental Ethnographies will be shown on November 3, 7 pm- 8:15 pm at Florida Community College, Kent Campus– Auditorium. Free admission. This fi lm was recorded in the jungle of Bendekondre, Suriname. Tjúba Tén (The Wet Season) is composed of community-generated performances, reenactments, and extemporaneous recordings of the villagers. artistseries.fccj.org

Nov. 7 Spiderman - Night Owl Cinema St. Augustine Amphitheatre, A1A South in St. Augustine, doors open at 6:30 pm and movie begins at 8 pm. Food is available from local restaurants. Info: (904) 471-1965 or staugamphitheatre.com

ROCKY

October 30 Radio Cape Cod Radio Cape Cod is an energizing award winning love story set on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Among the charming quartet of love stories, is Tamzin Outhwaite, who plays a radio interviewer coming to terms with the loss of her husband and a new love played by Olatunde Fagbenle, a dashing young scientist balancing work and romance. As she explores her awakened sense of self, she copes with her teenage daughter experiencing her fi rst love.

November 6 Mojave Phone Booth In the middle of the Mojave Desert rests an abandoned phone booth, riddled with bullet holes, graffi ti, its windows broken, but otherwise functioning. Its identity was born on the Internet, and for years travelers would make the trek down a lonely dirt road and camp next to the booth, in the hopes that it might suddenly ring, and they could connect with a stranger (often from another country) on the other end of the line. This is the story of four working class people from Las Vegas whose lives intersect with this mystical outpost.

November 13 North Starr After watching the brutal murder of his best friend, Demetrious wants out of the thug life and fl ees the badlands of Houston, Texas, for greener pastures. His cash takes him only as far as Trublin, a backward town with a past it can’t bury. There, Demetrious meets Darring, an unlikely kindred spirit from a disparate upbringing who takes him under his wing. Together, the two struggle to rouse the demons that haunt the tiny town and bury them once and for all. Nov 13 Rocky - Not Just for Baby Boomers Film Series Enjoy free showings of Boomers’ favorite fi lms at 5:45 pm in the Main Library’s Hicks Auditorium. On Thursday, Nov. 13 see Rocky from 1976 November 20 Remarkable Power A late-night talk show host is about to be pulled off the air after with Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, and Burgess Meredith. 1976. Rated PG. Info: 630-1741 or jpl.coj. a fi fteen-year-run, and his wife is engaged in a steamy affair with a professional baseball star. Host net. Jack West (Kevin Nealon) is desperate to keep afl ame his fading celebrity and avenge the misdeeds of his adulterous spouse. With the clock ticking, Jack concocts the mother of all media stunts, killing Nov 14 Akeelah & the Bee Enjoy movies in the park at Blue Cypress Park, 4012 University Blvd. 6 two birds with one unforgettable stone on the road to redemption. pm - 10 pm. Watch the movie Akeelah & the Bee and enjoy refreshments all for free. Info: 630-4100 November 27: SPECIAL THANKSGIVING DAY PRESENTATION Trail of Tears : Cherokee Legacy Nov 25 Anne Of Green Gables - Books Alive! Spend a Saturday afternoon at the movies with America’s most shameful episode of ethnic cleansing is the subject of this excellent documentary. In Books Alive! - a screening series featuring fi lms created from children’s literature. Anne Of Green 1838, some 16,000 Cherokee Indians in the Southeastern United States embarked- in exchange for Gables is based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novel about a young orphan girl who steals the hearts their homelands- on a mandatory march along what came to be known as the “trail of tears,” moving of a lonely Canadian couple with her spirit and lively imagination. Max Steiner provides the warm mu- 800 miles west to Indian Territory (later Oklahoma) to join other relocated tribes, a horrifi c journey sical score. Shirley assumed her character’s name for her professional identity. Main Branch Library, that resulted in the deaths of thousands (nearly a quarter of the people). Trail of Tears combines 303 North Laura Street - 2:30 pm. Info: 630-2665 or jpl.coj.net interviews with eminent historians and re-enactments fi lmed on-location in six different states.

December 4 Cracker – The Last Films at MOCA with the Jacksonville Film Cowboys of Florida Yes, there are cowboys in Florida. Real Festival live roping and riding cowboys. Filmed over a course of three The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is partnering with the Jacksonville years, we see that the life of Film Festival to give Northeast Florida residents the opportunity to see award-winning the Florida cowboy is changing, disappearing before our very independent and foreign fi lms. The fi lm series will run every Thursday night at 8 pm eyes. This fi lm captures the through December 4th at the Museum of Contemporary Art located at 333 N. Laura beauty of the old ways, many Street. Cost is $6 for Members; $8 for Non-Members. of which have not changed in hundreds of years, with the The series began on October 23 with the Jacksonville Film Festival’s Urban Flat’s Documentary drama of encroaching civilization. Audience Choice winner, The End. This fall’s fi lm series will also include special guest visits from It’s a beautiful and important Directors Andrew Silver and John Putch. Silver will appear at the October 30th viewing of Radio Cape fi lm documenting America in the CRACKER – THE LAST COWBOYS OF FLORIDA Cod and Putch will appear at the November 6th viewing of Mojave Phone Booth. throes of change.

eujacksonville.com | NOVEMBER 2008 39