2 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• LAGNIAPPE WEEKLY February 5, 2015 – February 11, 2015 | www.lagniappemobile.com

Ashley Trice BAY BRIEFS Co-publisher/Editor The city of Mobile’s Solid Waste Authority lost [email protected] an $8.5 million judgment in a lawsuit brought Rob Holbert by a contractor. Co-publisher/Managing Editor 5 [email protected] Steve Hall COMMENTARY Marketing/Sales Director With a history of ethics issues of his own, is [email protected] Chief Justice Roy Moore out of line on the Gabriel Tynes gay marriage push-back? Assistant Managing Editor 14 [email protected] Dale Liesch BUSINESS Reporter Greer’s is hosting a Grand Opening of [email protected] its new location in Bayou la Batre. Jason Johnson Reporter 18 [email protected] Alyson Stokes CUISINE Web & Social Media Manager/Reporter [email protected] In his final experiment in

Kevin Lee CONTENTS a weeks-long challenge Associate Editor/Arts Editor to go gluten-free, Andy [email protected] tries and fails to bake a Andy MacDonald Cuisine Editor decent loaf of bread [email protected] without using the most Stephen Centanni common of ingredients. Music Editor [email protected] J. Mark Bryant Sports Writer [email protected] 20 Daniel Anderson Chief Photographer COVER [email protected] WIth the local success of Laura Rasmussen comic book stores and Art Director an annual convention, www.laurarasmussen.com embracing the science Brooke Mathis Advertising Sales Executive fiction genre can be [email protected] a boon for the city Beth Williams economically. Advertising Sales Executive [email protected] Misty Groh Advertising Sales Executive 26 [email protected] Kelly Woods ARTS Advertising Sales Executive Mobile is missing the boat — or would [email protected] that be the starship — by not cultivat- Melissa Schwarz Editorial Assistant 28 ing the nerd arts to bring in cash flow [email protected] at warp speed. Contributors: Asia Frey • Brian Holbert MUSIC W.T. Bankhead • Ron Sivak The eight members of Jeff Poor • Jennifer McDonald Chelsea Wallace ELEL transcend differing On the Cover: Katie Carwie - backgrounds to create Minas Cosplay a unique band who’ll LAGNIAPPE (USPS 20) is published weekly, 52 issues a year, Volume 13, Issue 6, every help celebrate O’Daly’s Thursday by Something, Extra Publishing, Inc. Entered at the Mobile Post Office, 250 St. fifth anniversary Joseph St, Mobile, AL, 36601. celebration with Moon Periodicals postage paid at Mobile Post Office, 250 St Joseph St., Mobile, AL 36601 Taxi. and other locations. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Editorial, advertising and production offices are located at 1102A Dauphin St. 32 Mobile, AL 36604. Mailing address is P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Phone: 251.450.4466 Fax 251.450.4498. Email: ashley- FILM [email protected] or [email protected] Another charming chapter in Woody LAGNIAPPE is printed at Signature Offset, 2610 Allen’s European period. Lakeview Road, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. All letters sent to Lagniappe are considered to be intended for publication. 40 Member: Association of Alternative Newsweek- lies and Alternative Weeklies Network MEDIA All rights reserved. Something Extra Publishing, Inc. Nothing may be reprinted, photocopied or Some say al.com and the Press- in any way reproduced without the expressed permission of the publishers. Individuals may take one copy of the paper free Register continue to make of charge from area businesses, racks or boxes. After that, papers are $3 per questionable managerial decisions. issue. Removal of more than one copy 42 from these points constitutes theft. Violators are subject to prosecution. SPORTS Help support Lagniappe Weekly by becoming a “Friend with Benefits.” University of Mobile basketball Scan this code for more info: standout Deonica McCormick is 45 turning her talent into a profession. STYLE The good times keep rolling as Mardi 50 Gras provides plenty of Boozie gossip.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 3 GOING POSTAL An open letter to the University of South Alabama Foundation: Sad to see it go Maxie Roberts, director: Some things are more important than money. This is one. If you I wanted to let you know enjoyed the article on chef will allow all of us to buy and build the park, the Foundation will John Weichman (cover story, Jan. 15), and that I was sorry As you know our group mobilebaypark.com wants the foundation recoup all its investment and then some. I sent you the link to an to hear of the closing of his restaurant. to allow the city, county or state to buy or lease your property, lo- article where the state of Texas just recently purchased a large piece I well remember many a fine prime rib dinners I had at cated along Mobile Bay, from the Foundation and turn it into a public of privately owned waterfront property with BP oil spill fine money his All Seasons restaurant when it was open … incredible waterfront park, paying the Foundation with BP oil spill funds. to turn into a public park. So the precedent has been set. taste and consistent, you could always count on it. And We believe this could be the most important contribution USAF This park would mean more to the citizens than all the other the one side dish of his, spinach madeline? I still use it as could do for the University and the entire region. This park would environmental projects combined! This is our only chance. There a comparison today no matter where I order it, but they benefit everyone — unlike other current local projects such as a is no other location like this. We don’t know if any promises have don’t compare by a long shot. skateboard park or a soccer complex. been made or contracts signed, but for the good of everyone, please The man is great when it comes to food. He is the one This park would not have a narrow focus entertaining only a very rescind them. that taught me that food costs in pricing a meal generally small segment of the population. Most of us, including USA students Many giants have had to re-assess good intentions. I could go at any place runs 30-33 percent of the meal price, but his and alumni, don’t have waterfront property or a boat. Neither do on and on how important this will be to Mobile and the University, portions at All Seasons? He always gave them at a 40 most of us have time to drive to the beach. This park would be wildly but you can read many reasons why we should build park on our percent level. popular — entertaining tens of thousands of Mobilians and tourists website: mobilebaypark.com and see photos of what it would look I hate to see him go, but thank him for all the great alike. Many of you swam in Mobile Bay when you were younger and like — only bigger and better. groceries in the past. loved it. But you rarely ever hear of anyone swimming in the bay now and that is just wrong! Clarence Carrio Kerry Muzzey Mobile Mobile State democratic party member charged with child enticement BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

Pat Oliver Peyton made headlines last week after he was arrested on Arrest made for Jan. 15 double homi- the campus of the University of South Alabama and charged with dis- cide in Prichard tributing drugs to a minor, possession of marijuana and enticing a child Authorities arrested 29-year-old Kiyonta Moffett to enter a vehicle. However, it has not been widely reported that Peyton, in connection to a double murder reported in Prich- 59 of Theodore, is listed as a 2014 member of the Alabama Democratic ard on Jan. 15. Moffett, originally from Buffalo, Party’s Executive Committee and remains a qualified candidate for New York, is suspected of murdering Charnesha 2015. Jaquail Penn, 22, and 33 year old Roderick Reed, According to aldemocrats.org, the list of executive committee mem- both of whom are from the Mount Vernon area. bers has yet to become official through the Secretary of State’s office, According to police, the pair was shot multiple and the deadline to submit candidates is Feb. 7. times in the Whistler area near the intersection of According to USA’s police department, Peyton was arrested in the Gould Avenue and Warren Street. A neighbor who early morning of Jan. 28 in the Hillsdale area of Mobile. According to reportedly heard gunshots called 911, but both Reed reports, police questioned Peyton after discovering his van unattended and Penn were pronounced dead upon the arrival of in the area. Upon investigation, authorities found a young girl and evi- authorities. Photo/MCSO Photo/MCSO dence of drug use in his vehicle. According to records from the Mobile County Pat Oliver Peyton Other media reported that two other underage girls came forward Kiyonta Moffett Sheriff’s Office, Moffett has no other serious arrests after Peyton’s arrest was made public — saying that they had been con- in his criminal history. tacted by Peyton on Facebook and asked to do a modeling photo shoot.

4 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 BAY BRIEFS BB City loses millions for breach of landfill contract BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

fter four full days of testimony and it up. Morris said he never got the documents almost seven hours of deliberation, and thus ignored a later request for the same a seven-member U.S. District Court increase. It was also discovered through tes- jury awarded more than $8 million timony the SWA went more than three years, Ato Waste Management in its lawsuit against from 2008 to 2011, without an official public the city of Mobile’s Solid Waste Authority. meeting. Morris said he tried to hold meet- The suit was based in allegations the authority ings, but could never get a quorum. breached a long-term contract signed back in Wettermark told the jury WM made the 1993. majority of its money from private disposal “The court decision in favor of Waste at the landfill and only about 25 percent of its Management’s legal action against the city business came from the city’s waste stream. of Mobile Solid Waste Authority recognizes Wettermark also told the jury WM owed the very significant investments made by our the SWA overdue royalty payments. The company during the last 20 years to ensure authority, through the contract, is entitled to the city of Mobile’s landfill meets all neces- royalty payments of 5 percent, Wettermark sary environmental standards for modern said, on all garbage collected by WM or a landfills,” WM Gulf Coast Senior Manager third party. of Government and Community Affairs Rene Before the trial started, U.S. District Judge Faucheaux said in a statement. “Now that Kristi DuBose ruled in favor of Waste Man- the court has ruled on these issues, Waste agement regarding its claim the city breached Management remains willing to work with the the contract by sending its yard waste to a city of Mobile Solid Waste Authority and the different landfill. Rae Richardson, vice-chair- city of Mobile to find opportunities that will woman of the SWA, testified the authority strengthen this business partnership for the entered into a contract with Dirt, Inc. landfill benefit of the city and all Mobilians … This for yard waste in 2008. court ruling provides us the opportunity to Betbeze told the jury, using testimony from proceed with those efforts.” WM financial analyst Michael Bass, that be- The contract at the center of the suit al- tween 2008 and 2011, the city diverted more lowed the entity that would become Waste than 277,000 tons of yard waste to the other Management Mobile Bay Environmental landfill, resulting in more than $8.7 million in Center to operate the Chastang Landfill. lost profits. After the first two years, the contract allowed Bass testified he came up with the numbers Waste Management to receive annual price presented in the statement by multiplying the adjustments of the $20-per-ton tipping fee it amount in tonnage of yard waste the city sent charged the city for disposal at the landfill. to Dirt, Inc. by the fee charged at Chastang Aside from a temporary increase to $23.50 Landfill. He said he subtracted out the cost per ton from 2005 to 2009, Waste Manage- to Waste Management to process the extra ment attorney Jaime Betbeze told the jury, the tonnage. During cross-examination, Bass told tipping fee never changed from its original SWA attorney Jim Rossler he didn’t factor in per-ton rate. operational or additional equipment expenses In his opening argument, Betbeze com- into the figure. pared the unchanging rate to gas prices, or to Rossler asked DuBose to call a mistrial, or the change in the price of tuition at Harvard at least, have Bass’ testimony stricken from University from 1993 to 2015. In 1993, the record. She denied both motions, at the Harvard tuition cost $23,514, Betbeze told the time, but after the jury reached a unanimous jury. In 2015, the price is $44,000, an increase verdict against the SWA, Rossler said he of more than 87 percent. would bring those motions back up through “Yet, today the Solid Waste Authority is an appeals process. paying $20 per ton,” he said. Rossler told the judge he received the Betbeze argued WM was entitled to money spreadsheet only six days before trial and through the contract due to improvements didn’t have time to have it independently veri- they made at the site and because of changing fied. Additionally, he questioned the accuracy regulations making the landfill more costly to of the numbers, given the way Bass arrived at operate. the profit and loss figures. In his opening remarks, SWA attorney Lar- DuBose ruled that SWA was owed back ry Wettermark, who also was the city attorney royalty payments from WM in the amount of when the suit was filed, argued that although $272,000. WM had repeatedly asked for a tipping fee The jury found in favor of WM on all four rate increase and other reimbursements, they counts of the lawsuit. They found SWA in did not provide supporting documents to back breach of contract for not allowing a rise in up the claim, which he said was a stipulation the tipping fee charged to the city. In addition of the contract. He said the authority and its to awarding roughly $1.7 million for that then-Chairman Tim Morris received letters count, the jury also set a new tipping fee to from Faucheaux asking for a rate increase and charge — $27.38 per ton. the reimbursements but, he said, those never Thus, the jury also awarded more than $3.5 included an invoice of expenses. million on two counts related to reimburse- Morris testified he had met with Fau- ments it said the SWA owed Waste Manage- cheaux face-to-face to discuss the matter, ment. The jury also awarded $3 million for telling jurors he wasn’t against giving WM a breach of contract related to moving the city’s rate increase, but asked for documents to back yard waste to the Dirt, Inc. landfill.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 5 BAY BRIEFS BB SARPC previews $1 billion in planned road projects BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

obile’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is levard between Schillinger and Tanner Williams roads, improve- over the next 25 years. expected to approve a 25-year plan for road projects ments and widening projects at various places along Airport “Historically, the (WAVE’s) dependence on the declining and public transportation known as Destination 2040 in Boulevard and an extension of State Highway 158 westward to the source of federal funding has hurt the system and has underscored March, but if federal funding remains stagnant, financ- state line. the necessity for a dedicated source of funding to insure its vital- Ming the $1 billion of needed infrastructure projects could be easier Those projects, considered Phase I, are planned in a window ity,” the draft reads. “During the next 25 years, a dedicated and se- said than done. of time between 2015 and 2020. The I-10 bridge project, which is cure source of funding other than the city’s general revenue funds Officials with the South Alabama Regional Planning Commis- estimated to be at least $600 million by itself, is included among the should be identified to provide stability and insure the availability sion (SARPC) discussed Destination 2040 last week, and most Phase II projects — scheduled for funding between 2020 and 2030. of adequate funding for operating the transit system.” comments from the public were centered on improvements to Harrison said the I-10 bridge was included in the plan even Currently, WAVE operates 14 routes, most on a 60-minute Mobile’s WAVE Transit System and the highly anticipated I-10 though funding for it hasn’t been identified. headway and sees just under 6,000 average weekday boardings. Bridge project. Though federal dollars will fund the majority of these planned Like the road projects, Destination 2040’s plans for the transit The long-range plan, a requirement to obtain federal funding, improvements, each project will also have a local sponsor picking system is also broken down into multiple phases, each with an doesn’t guarantee any projects, but rather provides a framework up 20 percent of the tab for general road projects and 10 percent estimated increase to annual operating costs. for what additional capacity will be needed over the next 25 years. for Interstate projects. Phase I would streamline a few of the routes existing currently Using Census data, SARPC essentially predicted population Despite the detailed plans and their imminent acceptance from and combine others to increase efficiency at an increased cost growth and urbanization in the region identified in the Mobile Area the local MPO, there could still be some bumps in the road before of $60,000 annually. Phase II, a $278,000 increase, would make Transportation Study (MATS), which at 44 miles north to south and these projects start moving along. According to Harrison, the “minor changes and improvements” to several WAVE routes and 26 miles east to west is substantially larger than the city itself. Alabama Department of Transportation only plans to spend $150 establish two additional routes — one to the Mobile Regional Air- Based on models, SARPC predicted the urban areas in the million on additional capacity projects per year. port and the other to the Airbus facility at the Brookley complex. county will expand significantly between now and 2040, with the Harrison said the lean budget is because the vast majority of The third phase would transform the transit system in terms of population jumping 9 percent from 412,000 today to more than the $700 million the state receives from the Highway Trust Fund, accessibility to services and customer convenience. The final phase 445,000 by 2040. Predictive modeling also suggests a similar the result of federal tax on gasoline, is spent to maintain and would be aimed at cutting the average 60 minute overhead time increase in employment and an even larger growth in the number improve the current roads and bridges in the state and pay of bond in half, but such an ambitious revamping would require a steep of households. debt accrued over the years. increase in WAVE’s operational cost, roughly $6.5 million annually. All of the growth translates to more use of the county’s system “The federal government hasn’t had a gas tax increase since “These are only recommendations to WAVE. That’s all we can of roads, which means more congestion and an increased need for 1996, and that revenue stream hasn’t changed,” Harrison said. do,” Harrison said. “They and the city of Mobile are responsible capacity projects to raise the number of cars that can safely oper- “But, the cost of concrete, labor and everything else has gone up. for initiating those projects.” ate on area roadways. Everything cost more to build, but we have the same amount of Harrison said many states don’t fund public transportation. “Destination 2040 is the only plan that matters in terms of money to build it with. That’s the real problem.” Despite that, he said SARPC has tried reach out to state officials federal transportation assistance,” Kevin Harrison, director of A link to all of the suggested road projects as well as the entire about the possibility of supplementing WAVE. transportation planning at SARPC said. “Any federal surface draft of Destination 2040 is available on this story at lagniappe- Because the federal government is now required to factor project that comes into the (MATS) area will have to be voted on mobile.com. climate change into long-term planning, air quality regulations by the MPO.” Though the majority of residents travel by car, the MPO also from the Environmental Protection Agency could wind up helping The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1962 created MPOs, which manages public transit in the urbanized area and also has several Mobile, at least from a public transportation standpoint. are required in any urban area with a population of 50,000 or bicycle and pedestrian tracks planned as well. According to Harrison, Alabama’s air quality levels meet more. The board of the Mobile MPO comprises 16 members The WAVE transit gets certain amount of federal dollars that federal standards already, but if new regulations mean they exceed including several area mayors, District 3 County Commissioner require a 20 percent match for capital expenses and 15 percent maximum parts per billion, the state could be subject to vehicle Jerry Carl, local and state transportation officials and Mobile match for operating funds, but even with the federal assistance, inspections like many others. Mayor Sandy Stimpson, who recently took over as chairman. some are still dissatisfied with the quality of Mobile’s only public “I’ve written the governor and asked, if there are inspections — Harrison said the 50 recommended road projects are balanced transportation option. those fees — could they be used for state transit funds,” Harrison with projected revenues over the next 45 years and prioritized by In 2014, Lagniappe reported that Mobile contributes more said. “The only reason we don’t have state transit funds now is necessity. In the draft plan, projects are broken down into three than half of the WAVE’s $10 million operational costs annually. because the highway trust says they have to be used for highway phases with each costing an estimated $299 million, $627 million However, with improvements already sorely needed and no other dollars and not transit dollars.” and $123 million respectively. municipal partners stepping up the plate, the city’s cost to provide Harrison said he has yet to receive a response from Bentley’s Of those, the most immediate include widening Zeigler Bou- transportation for more than one million riders may only increase office. Latest charges against Hastie include tax evasion, misuse of public info BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

superseding indictment filed Jan. 30 against Mobile mayoral election, according to the indictment, “the individual who defendant in this case and no separate civil suit has been filed at County License Commissioner Kim Hastie includes two maintained [Stimpson’s] website sent a mass email to the email this time. new counts alleging the prohibited release and use of per- addresses taken from the information on the flash drive.” In a prepared statement after the original complaint was filed, sonal information from state motor vehicle records as well The email was a statement of Hastie’s political support for Stimpson denied any knowledge of or participation in Hastie’s asA defrauding the IRS. Hastie and assistant Ramona Yeager were Stimpson. alleged orchestration of the data transfer. Last week’s additional initially named in a 16-count indictment in November. Regarding the new charge of defrauding the United States, the counts do not allege any knowledge of or participation in Hastie’s In a charge consistent with a complaint first made against indictment alleges Hastie and her husband John Melvin Hastie alleged activities. Hastie in August by two private citizens, the new indictment Jr. engaged in deceit, craft and trickery to defraud the Treasury “Our campaign relied on its hired consultants to deliver the claims she orchestrated a scheme to disclose the email addresses Department. most advanced digital campaign possible,” he said. “They man- of 30,853 Mobile County residents “without their consent or prior “They conspired to conceal from the IRS approximately aged and directed all social media and voter outreach efforts with knowledge to a political consulting firm for a political purpose, $58,632.66 in income that they received from brokering land the public. We were assured that all of their efforts in that regard namely to publicize her support for a mayoral candidate prior to transaction and from timber cutting and land clearing services,” were in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.” Mobile mayoral election held on or about Aug. 27, 2013.” the indictment reads. Stimpson’s personal campaign website, sandystimpson.com, The August complaint first reported by Lagniappe claimed a It goes on to say the pair filed fraudulent federal income tax was developed by webjed.com, a Mobile-based provider of online license commission employee downloaded the email address from returns and diverted and attempted to divert income earned by solutions. A representative of the Stimpson administration said a license commission database onto a thumb drive and then gave Hastie Jr. to their daughter, all in an attempt to disguise and shield the mayor’s original statement remains true and he would have no that information to individuals working on the campaign of Mayor income, which included two false statements of economic interest further comment at this time. Sandy Stimpson. The latest indictment seems to corroborate those to the Alabama Ethics Commission political office holders are Lagniappe reached out to officials with the web hosting com- allegations. required to submit. pany for comment, and Webjed issued the following statement “On or about Aug. 22, 2013 Hastie and (Deputy License Com- According to the indictment those false statements were on Saturday. missioner Romana) Yeager and other individuals known to the intended to conceal $38,400 Hastie’s husband received for helping “We were instructed to send the email and we were not advised grand jury met with a license commission employee and Hastie facilitate land deals. about the origin of it, all of which was consistent with our contract instructed the employee to email everyone within Mobile’s city The complaint Mobile County received in August suggested to build and service a website and make it work according to the limits a statement endorsing a Mobile mayoral candidate,” the that Title 18 U.S. Code Section 2721 assesses a $2,500-per-viola- instructions given to us by our employer.” indictment reads. tion penalty for any personal information disseminated for unap- Jury selection for a trial on Hastie’s original charges was initially Allegedly, the employee told Hastie the request was improper. proved reasons. If accurate, that fee could theoretically be applied scheduled for later this month. However, in light of the additional Hastie then told the employee to download the email addresses to each of the 30,853 email addresses provided and result in a fine charges, the selection process was pushed back until April. onto a flash drive and “fearing retribution,” the employee com- of more $77 million. Both Kim and John Hastie will appear in court Feb. 11 for an plied. The drive later made its way to “representatives of a politi- In theory, it is possible Mobile County could be held liable for arraignment on the most recent charges. cal consulting firm working for [Stimpson].” A day before the up to that amount, however the county has not been named as a 6 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 7 BAY BRIEFS BB MCPSS reviewing travel policies BY ALYSON STOKES/REPORTER | [email protected]

mployee travel expenses were again a hot look at and approve travel expenses with so topic of discussion at January’s Mobile many discrepancies. County public school board work session. “We can save money if we make people Concerns were initially raised at the more accountable to the board,” he said. Eboard’s Dec. 15 meeting regarding the Mobile Peek said she would check the numbers County Public School System staff’s out-of- again and have an explanation for the board at county travel expenses. After some discussion, its regular meeting Jan. 26. the board voted 4-1 to approve 64 trips, totaling “We certainly will zero in on it,” she said. $74,071.89, with Commissioner Dr. William During the board’s regular meeting, Peek Foster voting against the measure. reiterated that numbers presented were simply Last month, the board was asked to approve estimates and not actual costs. 74 out-of-county trips, totaling $103,989.62. Employees are required to turn in actual Forty-six of those trips cost $71,810.68 and receipts of their expenses and further documen- were federally funded while 28 locally funded tation of their mileage after each trip, she told trips cost $32,178.94. board members during the meeting. During the Jan. 21 work session, Foster, who Further, Foster requested he be permitted to represents District 5, again brought up what he see the receipts and detailed documentation for called “discrepancies,” noting vast differences the particular travel log presented during the in out-of-state travel costs between individual meeting once they were available. staff members who were traveling to the same Peek said she would be “glad to do that.” conference at the same time. A review of figures provided to Lagniappe Though he commended the way school indicates in November 2014, MCPSS spent a officials had reorganized and presented out-of- total of $64,967 on out-of-county travel, com- county travel expenses to the board, Foster said pared to $63,320 the month before. In Septem- he still had some concerns. ber, the board spent $50,887, compared to just “Once again this time, I will vote no,” he $13,321 in August. said. April topped out-of-county travel expenses Foster said he did some research on his last year at $236,162 with 115 federally funded own, looking at airfare and hotel expenses, trips for $212,516, 11 locally funded trips for and “came nowhere close,” to the expenses $19,896 and one state-funded trip for $3,750. presented for the board’s approval. With June ringing up $62,470, the average District 3 School Board Commissioner monthly out-of-county travel costs appear to be Dr. Reginald Crenshaw pointed out items 40 between $50,000 and $70,000. through 43 on the out-of-county travel log, In December, Peek told Lagniappe these which showed three employees traveling for numbers present a “normal average,” consid- $1,475 each while another employee was allot- ering the MCPSS has a roster of about 7,500 ted $2,475 for the same conference. employees and all of those employees — Superintendent Martha Peek said the dif- whether teachers, administrators or other faculty ference in expenses could mean the employee members — are currently eligible for profes- with the higher cost is most likely driving to the sional development trips. conference, which in this particular case would While the school board ultimately approved be to the Principal Academy in Nashville. Re- out-of-county travel expenses presented last gardless, Peek said there should not be a $1,000 month, board president Doug Harwell suggested discrepancy. the board examine its current policies and “I don’t think there would need to be that potentially hold a finance committee meeting on much of difference,” she said. the issue. Crenshaw noted federal funds should limit “It might be a good time for us as a board to the school system to choosing the cheaper op- look at our travel policy,” he said. tion when it comes to travel expenses. In other business, the school board ap- “That’s definitely not the cheapest there,” he proved the sale of the former Augusta Evans said. School property to MAB Acquisitions LLC for Further, Crenshaw noted some of the staff $1,550,000. According to Peek, the property members traveling to the Principal Academy was appraised at $1.5 million. were not even principals, but instead teachers The board approved an increase of $43,503 and facilitators. for contract changes to the reroofing at Dunbar Peek maintained the conference is not just Magnet School. The original contract amount for principals as it offers classes for aspiring was for $404,400 and with the approved in- leaders as well; however, she said she would crease, goes up to $447,903. include a description of each conference for The board also approved proposed changes future purposes. to its tobacco use policy to include prohibiting According to Peek, teachers can also earn the use of electronic cigarettes in addition to the credits to maintain their certification at select use of tobacco. The proposed policy changes conferences. will be sent out for public input and two public “What we would do is monitor the amount hearings will be scheduled on the matter. of money being spent and the connection of the Additionally, the school board presented conference to that person’s job,” she said. two options for the 2015-2016 school calendar. Peek assured the board she would not bring Option 1 and Option 2 both have the first day forward anyone who had traveled excessively, of school for students scheduled for Aug. 10. noting a particular conference in Las Vegas had Notable differences between the calendars are become a popular request. the dates for Thanksgiving holiday, which is set “We’ve had a number of people go for a for Nov. 25-27 in Option 1 and Nov. 23-27 in number of years,” she said. “We will do a much Option 2. Option 1 has spring break scheduled better job trying to monitor travel. We’re going April 4-8 and Option 2 April 11-15. The last day to balance that out.” for students in Option 1 would be May 26 while Foster called it “absurd” for the board to in Option 2, it’s June 1.

8 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 BAY BRIEFS BB Annual homeless count finds ‘variety’ of people BY ALYSON STOKES/REPORTER | [email protected]

eon Williams has resided in his family’s come from all walks of life. Prichard home for about three years. “Homeless does not have a face, a name, a Though he has a roof over his head, Wil- gender or sex or anything like that,” she said. liams, 57, lives with no utilities — no “Homeless could be anyone. Anyone in the Lrunning water or electricity — thus rendering community.” his home simply “a place of inhabitation” and Homelessness can occur due to economic allowing him to be counted as one of the many struggles, domestic violence and job loss among homeless individuals living in Mobile County, other things, Pickett said, noting that she still according to Mobile’s Housing First, Inc. sees individuals who were affected by Hurricane Last week, Housing First conducted its annual Katrina in 2005. point-in-time count to determine the number of “They just come from everywhere,” she said, men, women and children experiencing home- adding that as a personal goal, she hopes to elimi- lessness in the community. nate homelessness all together. “It’s a cycle,” Williams said. “You’re not “I hope to eradicate homelessness very, very aware of what’s going to happen until it hits. soon,” she said. “I know that’s far reaching and Then it’s just there … then you’re in the hole and far fetching, but I believe it can be done if we can’t get back up. People look at you different work together as a community (and) if we con- and treat you different.” tinue to raise awareness that there are homeless The annual count, taking place during the people in our community. These are people who last week of January, helps determine how much are not always drug addicts or alcohol (abusers) federal funding can be received to address the or something like that, but they can just be people community’s housing needs. Volunteers partici- who have fell into hard times, people who cannot pating in the point-in-time count also conduct find their way. It’s not up to us to judge. It’s up to detailed surveys to assess the service and housing us to serve and help.” needs for each individual. While Pickett said her team may count an The information collected during the count is average of 25 to 30 homeless individuals during later compiled into an annual application submit- a four-hour window, she knows many homeless ted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban people go unaccounted for. Development by the Mobile-Baldwin Continuum “I think there’s a larger number,” she said. of Care for the homeless that responds to the “We do a great job of counting the people but needs of homeless citizens with a national goal of reducing and even eradicating homelessness. I think there’s a much, much larger number of According to Housing First Chief Execu- homeless people who just do not want to be iden- tive Officer Eric Jefferson, Mobile and Baldwin tified, but they’re there.” counties will receive about $3.8 million in federal During the count, Pickett’s team interviewed funding for all of their combined 20 service proj- a group of homeless individuals outside of the ects for fiscal year 2014. Two Eagles convenience store in Prichard, where “It’s still not enough,” he said. Cleve Davis, 66, proudly told volunteers about Jefferson went on to say that 90 percent of a young Wave bus driver who gave him the pair people surveyed need affordable housing, which of boots he was wearing and how Shiloh Baptist he estimated would cost about $5 million each Church and a retired Ingalls employee gave him year for those individuals. Currently, about the clothes on his back — a nice pair of slacks, a $24,500 is spent for each homeless individual per striped shirt and a sweater vest. year for hospital visits, legal services and shel- “People think you got to look dirty and nasty ters. Using that average, the 722 people counted to be homeless,” he said. last year represent services exceeding $17 million According to Pickett, Davis, a Vietnam vet- annually, Jefferson said. eran, lost his family home in a house fire about a “Somebody is paying that cost and it’s us as year ago and has been homeless ever since. citizens,” he said. “It’s more cost effective to get “A lot of people, they get help, get back on people in affordable housing than continue to do their feet and don’t want to give back to the what we’ve been doing that’s not working.” system,” he said. “That’s wrong. I’m not for that. Jefferson said his top priority is to ensure the When you get help, help somebody else. That’s community has some sort of affordable housing what I’m about.” in the ground and started by the end of the year. Jennifer Knight, a teacher at Gulf Shores He added that homelessness is less of a social Elementary School, participated in her first point- issue and more of an economic issue, telling in-time count this year as a member of Pickett’s volunteers gathered at downtown’s 15 Place that team. She said it was a touching experience and establishing and properly utilizing affordable one that she cannot wait to participate in again housing could potentially save the community next year. more than $12 million each year. While many people she encountered admit- “We’ve got to try to change the way we do ted to not knowing how to utilize their resources business in our community,” Jefferson said. or may have even been completely unsure about According to Housing First officials, about what resources were available to them, Knight 148 people from around the community volun- said there really wasn’t really a common thread teered for this year’s point-in-time count. In Mo- between those she surveyed. bile alone, there were about 20 teams comprised “There was a such a variety of people,” she of five to nine members each. said. “There wasn’t something you could point to Trinitius Pickett, director of the Salvation and say, ‘If we can cure that, we can fix this.’” Army’s shelter for women and children, has been According to Housing First, a report will be involved with homeless outreach for about 15 compiled within one month to provide the total years and served as a point-in-time count team number of men, women, families and children leader this year. who were experiencing homelessness on the Over the years, Pickett said she has met night of Jan. 29. It will also include information judges, lawyers, nurses and even celebrity chefs regarding their reasons for homelessness and on the streets and noted a homeless person can what is needed to end it.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 9 BAY BRIEFS BB Court denies request for stay, same-sex couples could marry next week BY JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER | [email protected]

he 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta Tuesday able to marry in the state they call home,” HRC Alabama State and private, and that related disputes almost certainly will end denied a request from Alabama Attorney General Luther Director Ashley Jackson said in a press release. up in this state’s courts,” the complaint reads. “Rather than Strange for a permanent stay on the Jan. 23 ruling ef- HRC’s Legal Director, Sarah Warbelow, said Alabama has simply replying (to press inquiries) that the Canons of Judicial fectively legalizing same-sex marriage in Alabama. The “no justifiable reason to continue enforcing discriminatory mar- Ethics prevented him from speaking publicly about pending Tdenial from the higher court was short and sweet, taking up less riage bans after a clear court order striking them down.” cases, Chief Justice Moore penned and made public a letter to than half a page. Attorneys Christine Hernandez and David Kennedy, who the governor, expressing his reaction to the ruling and urging “The motions of the Alabama Probate Judges Association represented Cari Searcy and her wife Kimberly McKeand, are defiance.” and Robert J. Bentley, Governor of Alabama, (and) Attor- already in the process of filing a motion requesting Granade Moore was famously removed from the bench as chief ney General Luther Strange are granted to the extent that we end the stay early in light of 11th Circuit’s recent order. Ac- justice in 2004 after the state supreme court upheld a decision have accepted and considered the amicus filings in support of cording to Strange, his office has filed an appeal to the U.S. from Alabama’s Court of the Judiciary to punish Moore for the motions for stay,” the Feb. 3 order reads. “The Attorney Supreme Court in hopes of extending the stay until a permanent refusing to obey a federal judge’s order to remove a statue of General of the State of Alabama’s motions for a stay pending federal ruling is reached. the Ten Commandments. He was then reelected to the same appeal are denied.” Lagniappe’s cover story last week featured Searcy, the position nine years later, and has since become a champion in After U.S. Judge Ginny Granade overturned Alabama’s Mar- developments in her case and the implications it could have on some Christian circles. riage Protection Act and Sanctity of Marriage amendment in the Alabama, but before Tuesday’s response from the 11th Circuit, The SPLC — one of the groups that sued challenging the landmark Searcy v. Strange ruling, she issued a 14-day stay to most of the headlines about state’s ongoing battle with same- constitutionality of the monument in 2002 — mentioned in give the 11th Circuit a chance to hear appeals from the state. sex marriage focused on comments Chief Justice Roy Moore its recent complaint that Moore’s removal from office was Immediately, the state filed a motion requesting the higher made in a letter to Gov. Robert Bentley. because of a “belief that a federal order was in conflict with the court to extend the stay — scheduled to end Feb. 9 — until the In the correspondence, Moore evoked scripture about the Alabama Constitution.” U.S. Supreme Court could rule on the issue later this year. As Biblical definition of marriage and went on inform probate Though the Alabama Probate Court Judges Association of Tuesday morning, that motion was officially denied, and if judges across the state that “issuing (same-sex) marriage originally took the position the recent rulings only applied to no further action is taken, same-sex marriage will be able to be licenses” once the stay was lifted would be “in defiance of state Searcy and McKeand, the organization changed its tune after performed in Alabama as of next Monday. law and the Constitution of Alabama.” Granade issued an additional court order on Jan. 28 clarifying The ruling will be applied to both Searcy v. Strange and The following day, the Southern Poverty Law Center issued who would be permitted to marry in Alabama. Strawser v. Strange, both of which concluded bans on same-sex a complaint with the Judicial Inquiry Commission of Alabama “Because the court has entered a stay of the judgment in marriage in Alabama were unconstitutional. The Human Rights claiming Moore’s actions “violate the canons of judicial ethics this case, neither the named defendant, nor the probate courts Campaign, a gay rights advocate group, celebrated the 11th’s in numerous ways, including improper public comment on in Alabama are currently required to follow or uphold the Circuit’s decision. pending and impending proceedings, lack of faithfulness to the judgment,” the order reads. “However, if the stay is lifted, the “This confirms what we already knew — that LGBT Ala- law, failure of professional competence and disrespect for the judgment in this case makes it clear (Alabama’s) Defense of bamians have the constitutional right to marry regardless of dignity of the judiciary.” Marriage Act and Sanctity of Marriage Amendment are un- who they love. The time has come for loving and committed “It is no secret that legalization and recognition of same- constitutional because they violate the Due Process and Equal couples from Florence and Huntsville to the Gulf Coast to be sex marriages in this state may meet resistance, both public Protection Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment.”

10 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 BAY BRIEFS BB No action taken on historic Malbis annexation BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

he Daphne City Council failed to move “They haven’t done it in 10 to 15 years, on the annexation and zoning of a con- why would they make a decision in six tested piece of property in the Malbis months?” Scully asked. Historic District. The property in question, Scully said, would TCouncilors agreed to take up the issue on be for townhouses, with some room fronting first reading, after hearing a second public the highway reserved for commercial use. debate on the issue Monday night. But in the He said the plan would be consistent with end, no motion was made and the ordinances Daphne’s 10-year-old comprehensive plan. that would’ve brought the 17 acres south of “It’s a good plan, it’s consistent with your U.S. Highway 90 into Daphne for commercial plan and I encourage you to approve it,” Scully use failed. said. The property in question is part of a larger Kalasountas told councilors he didn’t ever historic district that has three separate distinc- plan to be a developer and he only acquired the tions, said University of South Alabama Ar- 17 acres in question as repayment for financial cheologist Bonnie Gums. The Malbis Historic help he had given relatives who brought him District is on the National Register of Historic here from Greece when he was 20 years old. Places, is part of the Alabama Historical Com- He said he’s spent about $150,000 to clean up mission’s Alabama Register of Landmarks and the property. Heritage and is listed as one of four historic “We spoke about history,” he said. “I’m part districts in Baldwin County, Gums said. of the history. I don’t want to destroy Malbis If annexed into Daphne, the land would lose Plantation, or Malbis Lane.” the historical designation and the protection the He assured his neighbors that they would county affords such districts, she said. not be negatively impacted by a development “I think it’s a terrible idea…,” Gums told on the property. He said there would be no ac- the council. “They call it development, but I cess to Malbis Lane from the development and call it destruction.” only access to Highway 90. The history of the area was one of a few “This community, I’m a part of it,” he said. talking points for Malbis residents opposed Councilman Robin LeJeune said he hopes to the annexation. Kevin Spriggs, a vocal that the non-action results in the neighbors pro-development businessman who owns the working together to come up with a plan. Shell service station at the intersection of U.S “As for the non-vote tonight, I do hope the Highway 90 and State Highway 181, said it’s plantation does decide to move forward … ,” important to protect the area’s significance. he said. “We will be here for another year and “The Malbis area is full of history and we a half and I do hope to work with you.” don’t have too many of those places left in Councilman Joe Davis said he hopes the Baldwin County,” he said. “I hope you decide entire area bounded by Highways 181, 90 and to keep the area special.” County Road 64 could become part of Daphne. Spriggs also touched on another major talk- “I think the plantation can become a busi- ing point for opponents, the absence of a plan ness center and the Kalasountas property can from the property’s owner, George Kalasoun- become the start of that,” he said. tas. He cautioned though that proper restrictions “My understanding with this is there is should be put in place to maintain the integrity no plan,” Spriggs said. “Commercial zoning of the area. allows the owner to use the property accord- “We need to move forward and have every- ingly.” body sit down,” he said. “It needs to look like John Lawler, an attorney representing the Malbis.” historic district, called the annexation and pre- Councilman John Lake said businesses zoning “speculative.” across Highway 90 have to pay a higher sales “Property owners want to be able to see tax rate and fees for upkeep in the area. He how the project will benefit them,” Lawler added, with some empty space there, there said. “With this, there is no plan, so we don’t was a concern about cannibalizing business by know what it’ll be.” allowing commercial use so close without the Lawler asked councilors to pass a local or- same restrictions. dinance to compliment the county’s protection “I want to see a plan,” Lake said. “I want to of historic districts, like Malbis. see something that protects the area. I didn’t Other opponents, including Malbis Planta- want to do anything to destroy the historic tion board members, told councilors they were overlay of the county.” close to developing a master plan for the entire Mayor Dane Haygood said it would be area, including the parcel owned by Kalasoun- a good idea to look at regulations regarding tas. historic districts. Councilman Ron Scott, chair- Willard Simmons, a Malbis Plantation man of the council’s ordinance committee, board member, asked the council to be patient told his fellow councilors and guests that they and in six months the board could have a plan would look into the issue. in place for future use of the area. After council comments ended, councilors Bill Scully, an attorney for Kalasountas, unanimously voted to allow Kalasountas to told councilors his client is on the Malbis withdraw the applications in question. Plantation board and has created three separate In other business, the council voted to plans for the area, but the board hasn’t made a transition the position of treasurer to the city’s decision. finance director.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 11 BAY BRIEFS BB Council ‘squabbles’ over synthetic soccer turf BY DALE LIESCH/REPORTER | [email protected]

hosts of budget negotiations reap- synthetic fields would be better in the long peared Tuesday morning during a run for Herndon Park, as its three fields see Mobile City Council discussion over a lot of use. He said, in addition to the youth the price for installing synthetic soccer league, the park’s soccer fields are used by five Gfields at Herndon Park on Sage Avenue. high schools, the Catholic Youth Organization, Late last year, the city approved a $25,280 two men’s soccer leagues, club lacrosse and contract with Espalier LLC for design of three recreation leagues. fields at the park to replace two existing grass “There’s no way to put grass out there and soccer fields and convert one grass softball keep it out there,” he said. “Obviously I’d field to a soccer field, but not before a discus- rather play on grass, any athlete would, but if sion over the cost of installation. we’re going to have high impact we need to While the approved contract covered have synthetic fields.” design work, John Williams asked Director of When pressed by Rich on the number of Architectural Engineering Brad Christensen synthetic fields needed, Harrelson said two about the price of the synthetic grass fields. would be good, but three would be better. Christensen told Williams the price tag on the Harrelson compared Mobile to smaller fields was between $500,000 and $800,000 cities in Baldwin County. He said when its each, without adding in costs for drainage. planned complex is completed, Fairhope will While some councilors balked at the cost of have a total of 14 lighted, ready-to-play fields the new fields, Bill Harkins, executive director while Mobile will have two. He also said of Public Works, said the price would be made Pensacola has at least 30 fields in two separate up in the very little maintenance and upkeep complexes. required. “That’s how far behind we are in just one When asked to compare the price of sport,” he said, noting there is a broad enthusi- synthetic fields to grass fields, Colby Cooper, asm for better facilities among the local soccer Mayor Sandy Sitmpson’s chief of staff, said a community. “I envision it to be a center where new grass field would cost between $100,000 people will want to come,” he said. and $200,000, depending on grading and In other business, the council voted to drainage issues. He said turf fields can last for authorize Stimpson to pursue a grant from more than decade without maintenance. the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation “The community has been unsatisfied with for a litter boat for Three-Mile Creek. The field conditions,” Cooper told councilors. “We grant would require $50,000 in matching local don’t have grass on those fields, it’s dirt …” Councilwoman Bess Rich questioned the funds. Awards will be announced this summer. need for all three synthetic fields at one time. The council also voted to rezone property Instead, she suggested testing one synthetic on the west side of Furr Street, north of Old field and going with natural grass on the other Shell Road in Crichton, from residential to two. She used Medal of Honor Park as an business. The move allows Bebo’s to build a example. She said the grass fields there, if storage facility for record keeping, Richardson there is a problem with drainage, the city has said. There was some talk about restricting the maintained it and it’s “in good condition.” use to only a storage facility, or allowing the “I don’t see a need for turf in parks if they zoning to revert back to residential, if Bebo’s are well maintained,” she said. “You could use owners decided to sell. turf on one field to see if it lasts.” “The lot that’s in question has been vacant Councilman Joel Daves then questioned the for years,” Richardson said in response to council’s decision to move $1.5 million out of questions from concerned property owner the Parks and Recreation budget to support the Esther Hosey. “This will have a positive county’s proposed soccer complex. impact on your property values because it will “The council took $1.5 million out of the decrease blight.” recreation budget for soccer fields we don’t The council also approved a $245,000 con- own and now we’re going to squabble over tract with MIG, Inc. to design an easy way to fields we do own,” he said. “I’d much rather get pedestrians across portions of Water Street. spend the money on our own fields than have The council approved a $336,610 contract $1.5 million floating in the ether.” with Payne Environmental to administer the Williams suggested the county’s plan for a city’s stormwater permits through the Alabama soccer complex would take a decade or more Department of Environmental Management. to come to fruition. Stimpson was absent from Tuesday’s meet- Meanwhile, Rich defended her support ing because he was en route to Washington, of the county complex, saying it’s due to be D.C., Cooper told the council. Stimpson would completed much sooner. Rich also said it’s a be participating in the national prayer break- disservice to the soccer community that the fast, while also meeting with White House city doesn’t have a soccer complex yet. officials to further discuss the proposed Inter- Councilman Fred Richardson endorsed the state 10 bridge project. Cooper noted the meet- change to turf fields at the park in his district. ing comes as President Barack Obama has “It’s our park,” he said. “I say, let’s move committed $478 billion for road and bridge on it.” projects nationwide in his new budget. The Before the measure was approved, the Republican-controlled Congress, however, is council heard from Chad Harrelson of the expected to counter with a separate budget that Mobile United soccer club. Harrelson said may not emphasize similar priorities.

12 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 13 D AMN T h E TORPEDOES COMMENTARY C Will ten minute tags save Hastie? BY ROB HOLBERT/MANAGING EDITOR | [email protected]

ittle known fact — if a columnist sees masses. Still, I’m not quite sure it’s up there en guilty, but the opposite of that shouldn’t his shadow on Groundhog Day, he can’t with parting the Red Sea. be “do whatever you want if you can get us write that week’s column about just one Hastie is facing all manner of federal ten minute tags.” thing. Most of the time this isn’t an is- charges that she abused her position for Hopefully this mess will all be over some- Lsue since computer screens don’t really throw political purposes in hopes of combining her time soon so Kim can either get on cracking off much of a shadow, but I actually ventured office and that of the county revenue com- the whip at the tag shop or get busy making out into the sun Monday and was terrified missioner in one higher-paying, more-power- tags in Atmore. Either way, those of you so out of a very touching Pulitzer Prize-winning ful job. Now the feds are saying she ordered hung up on the efficiencies of the License piece on a cat I once had. subordinates to pull the email addresses of Commission really ought to expect a little Instead you’re getting some thoughts on a thousands of citizens in the license commis- more out of your public officials than getting few different subjects. None of them is cats. sion database in order to use them to send you an easier trip to the tag shop. out political messages in support of Mayor Really Roy? Sandy Stimpson’s election. Federal authori- Trashed I’m as big a fan of meaningless political ties are also now alleging Hastie and her When the city lost an $8 million lawsuit to grandstanding as the next guy, but after U.S. husband engaged in tax evasion. So they’ve Waste Management last week over a contract District Court Judge Ginny Granade effective- got a bit of a mess. it apparently began violating several years ly overturned Alabama’s ban against same-sex But to read comments and hear people ago, it felt like yet another ghost of the Sam marriage, our state’s Supreme Court Chief talk, it wouldn’t matter what Kim may or Jones Administration rising up. Justice couldn’t wait to jump up on the soap may not have done, as long as you can get I couldn’t help wondering who provided box and embarrass the state once again. a tag in 10 minutes. I sort of imagine her the legal counsel to the city that it would be Moore immediately began spouting scrip- attorney’s closing arguments will be “Ladies OK back in 2008 to start shifting yard waste ture and offering the Biblical definition of and gentlemen of the jury, yes my client may disposal to Dirt Inc. instead of keeping it marriage, then warned probate judges across have done some things wrong, but lets not with Waste Management as the contract ap- the state that they’d be violating Alabama’s forget — Ten … Minute … TAGS!” parently dictated? laws and constitution if they married two Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been trapped Right now that stands as a pretty huge dudes, or two chicks. down there with all the other mouth-breath- mistake — especially at a time when the city Moore’s acolyte, Dean Young, quickly ers who forgot to mail in their license tag re- is already very cash strapped. whipped up a press conference to denounce newals. It used to be a pretty awful situation. An accounting should be made of who the ruling, quote some scripture and thump Not sure it was ever the six-to-seven-hour decided to change this contract and who gave some Bible as well. You can never have ordeal many of Hastie’s supporters recall the legal OK to the city that it wouldn’t be a enough Bible thumping in situations like this. online, but it definitely sucked. breach of contract. Right now, the decision While I understand Moore’s feelings about I absolutely believe in innocent until prov- looks boneheaded at least. gay marriage and his strong desires to always be out proselytizing rather than interpreting or even following the law, this latest effort seemed even more insincere than usual. Like it or not, the gay marriage issue has The Gadfly essentially been decided in this country. The vast majority of states allow it, meaning the idea that a couple is married in one state and not in another is bound to create an unaccept- able legal mess. As a judge and lawyer, Moore should know the federal law on this is going to supersede whatever Alabama cooks up. So why run his mouth? He knew there was really nothing to win in this case. I’ve always been a bit more sympathetic to Moore’s stand for the Ten Commandments since they’re etched at the U.S. Supreme Court as well, but in this situation he just seemed like he was intentionally trying to get out in front of an issue where he was bound to lose just to stir up his base.

Ten minute tags forever! Speaking of sympathy, it never fails to amaze me how every time another story comes out about embattled Mobile County License Commissioner Kim Hastie, the com- ment boards online are flooded with people expressing the view that no matter what she might have done it doesn’t matter because she gave us “ten minute tags.” For anyone who might have been dead for the past few years, TMT was Hastie’s magic carpet into the license commissioner’s office Cartoon/Laura Rasmussen and a promise she did indeed live up to, give or take a minute. True to her word, going to the get a car tag is no longer the arduous Waste Management awarded $8.5M judgment in breach two-or-three-hour wait among the unwashed of contract case against city’s Solid Waste Authority.

14 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 h IDDEN AGENDA COMMENTARY C On the trail with Ashley Trice, garbage detective BY ASHLEY TRICE/EDITOR | [email protected]

f you frequent East Midtown (EaMid? eMid? before you head! eMiMo? No, enough!) you may have seen Exhibit B: Shredded up papers, bills, food some our staff strolling around the block of containers and other household/office trash Lagniappe World Headquarters. No, we haven’t As we were making the rounds the other day Idecided to start throwing papers in your yards on our afternoon office excer-jaunt, we noticed against your will to “exercise” our First Amend- a scattered array of shredded office paper on the ment right. Nope, we’re just exercising our right sidewalk that had not been there on the morning not to be lard-esque, not sure what amendment stroll. I couldn’t figure out where such a mess that is. would come from, as again it didn’t seem like Due to the large amount of cookies, cakes and the kind of trash one would throw out of a car or alcohol that just shows up at said headquarters all would fly out of the back of a truck. But then it hit the time, coupled with the relative lack of physical me. Almost literally, as I happened to get behind activity it takes to produce a newspaper (although one of the “one-armed bandit” garbage trucks we do still sweat a lot as we near deadline), we later that week. were all getting a little blubbery, or at the very At the particular stop I witnessed it was having least, sedentary. So our assistant managing editor trouble getting the bin up past the oak trees so it Gabriel Tynes had the brilliant idea for the office didn’t get to do its dump properly (Ewwwww!) to participate in Shape Up Alabama, a statewide and loose garbage hit the street all around. One program designed to “facilitate a community-wide breeze or fast car passing by would be taking that awareness effort to promote a holistic approach to garbage to yards near and far. A huge mess was a healthier lifestyle.” imminent. Not sure how “holistic” we have been. It’s been Yikes! I know my own household has been more like we don’t eat a “whole” pizza or two on guilty of this. We obviously bag up all of our deadline day anymore. But with our twice-daily household garbage, but anything we get out of our treks, we’re collectively doing pretty well on los- cars or even the litter we pick back up from our ing the ol’ LBs. yard we generally just toss it right on top of our But what we’ve also noticed on our laps around own garbage bin all loosey goosey. I guess I had the Lag, as we get more up-close-and-personal just never thought about this because by the time with the streets of Mobile, is even though we have I get home, my bin is empty and on its side. If any the strictest litter ordinance we have had perhaps loose garbage did escape, it was probably at the in the history of the Port (or in our case, the end of my neighborhood by the time I pulled in Portly) City, we are still one giant trash bin. (And my driveway. yes before you ask, we are going to start picking it So rule number two: Bag everything up tightly, up on some of our walks.) so things won’t get unsightly! But after really looking at the kind of garbage (I know that one was lame, but it’s a column on there is on the side of the road, it made me really garbage, what do you want from me?) curious about its origin. (I really need to get some more hobbies.) Exhibit C: Circulars and “newspapers” Obviously, there are crumpled up fast food I miss having the Press-Register thrown in my bags and empty Mountain Dew and miniature yard back when they were actually throwing a liquor bottles people are clearly tossing out of their NEWSpaper I requested and paid to have thrown cars, but some of the other trash doesn’t appear to in my yard. But these advertising products they be something that would come from a vehicle. are slinging in everyone’s yards now seemingly I’m sure the people at Keep Mobile Beautiful randomly and certainly not by request is not only and other such agencies, as well as the litter en- annoying it’s another huge problem with the war forcement officers, have piles of data on this, but on litter. I had never really thought about it. I just assumed I can affirm we have seen these circulars they the majority of it was coming from the wretched throw in various states of decay along our path car tossers. and of course, everyone has seen it in their own But after more careful observation, I think there neighborhoods. are other factors at play. And there are numerous You can call and cancel the service you never guilty parties, including some of us who may be requested, but I never think to do this. I imme- inadvertently contributing to the problem without diately just take it out of the bag (we use those realizing it. to pick up our dog’s poo on our walks) and then Let’s examine some of the evidence. “loosely” toss it in our garbage bin. Oh poo! You Exhibit A: Flattened beer cases, ball caps, see what’s happening here? discarded packaging for tools and various other Even the mayor’s office asked them to stop. things that dudes throw in the back of their trucks. But they asserted their First Amendment right to If you are one of the millions of men who throw this “newspaper.” Even though the only watched the Super Bowl and felt the need to buy a news in the last one I received (I admit I looked at Chevy Colorado truck, congratulations. I’m sure, it for the first time for the purpose of this column) as advertised, it will immediately get you all of the was a recipe, an anemic calendar of events and hottest babes and make you Tom Brady handsome. pictures of homes in a town called Bridgeport, But if you and your new model girlfriend start wherever that is. So glad our soldiers fight for tossing your own fast food bags, flattened beer their right to provide us with a Chicken Enchilada boxes and even your favorite ball cap (or her recipe from the Detroit Free Press’ food writer. Victoria Secret wings) in the back of your truck, Look, y’all know what I do for a living, I remember to take it out or secure it before you hit would tattoo the First Amendment on my back if the streets, because once you hit a certain speed I could handle the needles and irrational fear of as you are jamming to some AC/DC, it’s going to hepatitis. fly out. That’s just physics and science. Ask Bill But this ain’t news, y’all. It’s just a nuisance. Belichick. I’m sure he can explain it better than Rule Number Three: Remember to call before I can. the next one falls. I’ve been behind a few trucks of late and (And then again, after they still don’t cancel it. witnessed this and I’m pretty sure the driver had The number is 219-5343. It took me 11 minutes no idea and is probably still wondering where his and 1 second to do this so make sure you have favorite cap is. enough time on your hands. Did I mention the So rule number one: Always check your bed word nuisance?)

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 15 BELTWAY BEAT COMMENTARY C Opposing same-sex marriages is no longer worth the fight BY JEFF POOR/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

ep. Patricia Todd (D-Birmingham) posing same-sex marriage their Waterloo? put same-sex marriage back in It’s now ammunition for the politically local headlines last week after she correct part of our society to use against threatened to “out” adulterous law- the political right. You can depict your Rmakers in Montgomery who have resisted opponents as homophobe bigots, which the issue. is if we’re taught anything from our pop “This [is] a time where you find out culture — is a bad place to be. It’s not who are accepting, loving people,” Todd that conservative voters are yearning for wrote in a Facebook post last month. “To marriage equality, but it’s just not the say I am disappointed in Speaker Hub- overwhelming single issue it used to be. bard’s comments and Attorney General Last year, Robertsdale native and Strange’s choice to appeal the decision Apple CEO Tim Cook paid a visit to his is an understatement. I will not stand by home state. During Cook’s homecoming and allow legislators to talk about ‘family he offended a lot Alabamians by speaking values’ when they have affairs, and I know out against the state’s resistance to marital of many who are and have. I will call our equality. elected officials who want to hide in the “As a state, we took too long to steps closet OUT.” toward equality,” Cook said at a ceremony The Birmingham lawmaker, who is honoring new inductees into the Alabama openly gay, was reacting to Alabama Academy of Honor at the State Capi- leaders’ decision to appeal a federal court tol. “We were too slow on equality for ruling striking down the state’s same-sex African-Americans. We were too slow on marriage ban. interracial marriage, and we are still too Todd later told Birmingham radio host slow for the equality for the LGBT com- Matt Murphy that her lawyer advised she munity.” not follow through and went on to drop the Granted, Cook days later announced threat. Despite backing down, her gesture he was gay, which would explain his out- has elevated Todd to a folk hero among spokenness on the issue. But if the CEO some gay and lesbian activists. of the world’s most profitable company is The effort also suggests something else bothered by this — with all of his ties to — maybe it’s time for conservatives to the state, including having graduated from drop the same-sex marriage issue. Auburn University — couldn’t that be in- There was a time when opposing same- dicative of a lot of other national business sex marriage was a political winner. In leaders’ attitudes toward Alabama? And 2004, months before his reelection bid, could that not lead to a reluctance to locate then-President George W. Bush endorsed within the state? a constitutional ban on same-sex mar- Conversely, it doesn’t seem like there riage. The impetus for his endorsement are any businesses looking to locate within was a decision by the Massachusetts the state because of a resistance to same- Supreme Court, which granted marriage sex marriage. rights to same-sex couples and then-San Patricia Todd was definitely out of Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom’s deci- bounds to suggest she was going to call sion to issue marriage licenses to same- out adulterous lawmakers. Instead of win- sex couples. It was also seen as a way to ning over a handful of activists in New energize social conservatives heading into York City and California, she likely would Bush’s contest against John Kerry. have done more for her cause in the state The likelihood of such an amend- to actually argue the merits. Make the case ment being added to the Constitution was that there is little to gain resisting it. nil, but it wound up being a winner for The state will still likely spend time Bush, who was later reelected. and money fighting a national push for That was over a decade ago and it defi- same-sex marriage recognition. Gov. nitely wouldn’t be as successful nationally Robert Bentley, Chief Justice Roy Moore as it was then if Republicans tried to do and Attorney General Luther Strange have the same thing in this upcoming election. indicated their opposition to it. And there But it probably wouldn’t even rate well in is a case to be made that it should be left Deep South. You’ll always have the Roy up to the states to decide their rules for Moore element within politics, but cater- marriage. ing to that crowd is not exactly part of a Eventually, however, the federal winning formula (see Dean Young versus government will be forced to act because Bradley Byrne, 2013). you can’t have rules in one state that differ There is also a much larger ideological from another when it comes to a legal question, which is if you’re truly con- institution. The Equal Protection Clause of servative and skeptical of government’s the Constitution won’t allow it. involvement of your everyday life, then Whether we like it or not, the trend why should the government have any say nationally by state governments is to in the marriage business? Certainly there recognize same-sex marriages. That’s not is a need for a legal recognition of a mar- to say it should be championed, but it’s not riage, but it probably should not go much worth the fight to resist that trend, espe- further than that. cially with all the woes facing the state of So why should any politician make op- Alabama and the rest of the country.

16 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 TAO OF JEN COMMENTARY C When it comes to gay marriage ruling, I’m lovin’ it BY JENNIFER MCDONALD/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

appy February, friends! It’s been so much wailing and gnashing of teeth, but a very exciting year already, and it does seem like a terribly sad and petty as many of you have noticed, this waste of time and resources and by now I’ve might turn out to be a very happy mostly stopped listening. See, I’ve been up HValentine’s Day for a lot of folks in our area. and down this road a thousand times trying Many of us are still reeling from a to understand where gay rights opponents recent announcement that sent shock waves are coming from, intellectually (i.e., not through our community and triggered fierce emotionally). debates over a big change to a fundamental I’ve listened to neighbors, strangers on American institution. While some consider the Internet, political pundits, and even it a revolting sign of the continued degrada- other attorneys I genuinely respect, and it’s tion of our society, others delight in the fact always more of the same old arguments it encourages people to celebrate and openly that simply can’t hold up to hard reason. In express their love. well over a decade of listening with an open Of course I’m talking about last week’s heart and mind, I have never heard even one big announcement that from now through sensible and intelligent reason to deny gay Valentine’s Day, much loved/hated fast food couples the right to marry. Not. Even. One. giant McDonalds will be accepting public It’s a heartbreaking thing as a family law displays of affection in lieu of payment. attorney to sit across from another human The promotional offer, known as “Pay being, look them in the eye, and explain with Lovin’,” will allow randomly selected laws that were clearly created by people customers to “pay” for their orders by per- who consider them an abomination and forming certain acts including hugging their disgrace to society. They already know this, companion, calling their mom to say “I love of course, but people still call all the time you,” or even dancing with the cashier. wondering if perhaps their situation is not Aww, that’s really sweet McDonalds. quite as bad as they assumed. In most cases And to think people complain the only thing thus far, it’s been worse than they thought. you ever gave us was diabetes and crappy When asked if they’re interested in fight- wages! ing, perhaps calling in the help of deeper If that’s not exciting enough for all you pockets and more experienced attorneys, lovers out there, we’ve also had some very most folks just sigh and quietly decline. big news in the world of family law! I was “I’m not trying to change the world. I just beyond thrilled to learn that our state is want to be left alone to live a normal life,” expected to become the 37th in the nation to is a common refrain. allow same sex partners to marry. Hooray! So we do what we can instead, drafting This has been a rapidly changing story, wills, joint deeds, health care directives, but as of my deadline federal Judge Ginny powers of attorney and any other documents Granade has ruled that there is no consti- we can think of to protect their rights as tutional basis for denying gays the right to much as possible. But it’s not enough, and marry. She further clarified that her ruling it’s never been enough. applies to all government officials and Until I started handling divorces, I didn’t that Alabama must begin issuing marriage fully realize how many protections are af- licenses to gay couples. forded by marriage that just aren’t available The initial excitement was tempered through any other means, even civil unions somewhat when she followed up by issuing (and we don’t even have that small luxury in a 14-day stay in the case, allowing the 11th Alabama). There is simply no “separate but Circuit Court of Appeals time to weigh in, equal” equivalent, nor should there be. but if things proceed as expected by most, Marriage means so much to so many same sex couples will be able to legally of us, and we all know it’s so much more marry in the state of Alabama beginning than just a collection of rights and respon- Feb. 9. sibilities. It’s a way to make a family. Not Wow, it’s about time! Those who know the only way, of course, but it’s such a me well know this issue is very close to my fundamental part of our society that it has heart, for personal and professional reasons, long been held a basic right offered even to and hearing the ruling was one of those murderers serving life sentences. moments I’ll likely remember for the rest Many homosexuals have been denied ba- of my life. The past week has been a blur of sic human dignity and have been effectively hugs, tears, and celebration, but of course I living as second-class citizens for absolutely understand that it’s not quite over yet. no valid reason. This type of sustained As expected, various groups are doing discrimination seems sharply at odds with their best to drag Alabama kicking and so many of the sacred principles our country screaming back into darkness, and if it were stands for, and it’s just a damn shame we let up to them I have little doubt we’d claim it go on for so long. I feel certain this will our rightful place as the 49th state (sorry be something we all look back on one day Mississippi!) to begrudgingly recognize gay and wonder what the heck was wrong with marriage after the upcoming Supreme Court us and how something so blatantly obvious case sets things right once and for all. (At once seemed so controversial. least I hope so, anyway!) Until then, keep the faith. And Happy Of course it wasn’t any big shock to see Valentine’s Day! Love will win!

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 17 T h E REAL DEAL BUSINESS BB Grand opening for Greer’s in Bayou la Batre BY RON SIVAK/COLUMNIST | [email protected]

reer’s newly expanded and renovated in Mobile and Baldwin counties, successfully CPA firm Zevac and Lindsey chang- market location at 13298 S. Wintzell held its second annual Mobile Project Home- Ave., Bayou La Batre, will have its less Connect event last Friday, Jan. 30 at The es name to Lindsey and Waldo Richard Lindsey, partner and president, re- grand reopening Friday, Feb. 6 at 3 p.m. Grounds. cently announced that Zevac and Lindsey, LLC GSpecial weekend events include: a “Text to Mobile Project Homeless Connect is Win” $50 gift card contest, a kids Mardi Gras designed to provide needed services to many has officially changed its name to Lindsey and parade and buggy decorating event and a grand of the disadvantaged in the area. It included Waldo, LLC effective Jan. 1, 2015. The name prize “Free Groceries for a Year” contest. medical services, legal assistance, dental and change reflects the addition of Paula Waldo, John Delchamps with the Merrill P. Thomas vision screenings, access to housing assistance partner, who joined the firm in 2007. Company recently leased 2,180-square-feet and mainstream resources (food stamps, state According to Lindsey, the firm will continue of retail space at the new Westwood Plaza to ID cards, social security cards, etc.) to maintain the same range of services to its Allure Nail Lounge. Delchamps represented the According to a press release, the commu- clients with perhaps a few minor additions. tenant and Buff Teague with JLL worked for nity event brought together government, aca- landlord. demia, health care, faith-based organizations, 12th annual Health Occupations transportation, law enforcement, nonprofits Career Fair at Civic Center Gov. Bentley speaks at Chamber and work force development agencies that For the 12th consecutive year, the Mobile luncheon provided services at no cost to the needy in Area Chamber and the Bay Area Healthcare the local community. Last Monday, Gov. Robert Bentley spoke to Coalition are orchestrating a show-and-tell “The event was bigger and more beneficial a crowd of approximately 130 business leaders career fair to give high school sophomores ac- this year. With over 35 service stations and and Mobile, Baldwin and Washington county cess to area healthcare professionals and a brief providers we provided much needed services to politicos at the Mobile Area Chamber of Com- hands-on experience. merce’s Legislative Lunch. over 300 individuals and families, ” Chief Op- “It can be overwhelming to think about what During introductions, it was claimed 63,000 erations Officer Michelle Krulewicz-Dees said. to do for the rest of your life after school. This new jobs had been created in Alabama since Founded in 1996 by a coalition of business, Bentley took office in 2008. The governor community, and faith-based leaders, Housing experience can help students decide whether went on to mention that, although overall First serves approximately 700 homeless indi- a healthcare career is, or in some cases is not, the state is doing well, Mobile as well as the viduals, families, and veterans per year. for them,” Susan Rak-Blanchard, the Mobile south Alabama region in particular are one of Chamber’s director of communications and the hotspots in the state for robust economic marketing said. growth. Bentley also voiced excitement about 2015 GCC and ACF annual meeting The annual Health Occupations Career Fair accelerating progress of the Airbus rollout held at USA Campus is being held through Feb. 5 at the Mobile expected online in 2016. Last Friday, Jan. 30, the Green Coast Coun- Civic Center Expo Hall. The cosponsor, Bay Other local initiatives discussed were as- cil (GCC) held their 2015 Sustainability Sum- Area Healthcare Coalition, is a group of re- sisting small businesses after natural disasters mit at the University of South Alabama. The gional hospitals, clinics, healthcare providers, by establishing state-guaranteed, zero-interest Green Coast Council is a forum for business community colleges, private training providers loans available immediately following a and industry leaders who practice and promote and universities that have partnered with the federally-declared emergency as well as reduc- environmental sustainability principles. The Chamber for more than a decade to address ing flood insurance costs for local business GCC is an initiative of the Alabama Coastal growing workforce needs. and property owners by encouraging reforms Foundation (ACF). “This year’s event is expected to move 660 that would increase credits available through Eliska Morgan, executive director of the Mobile and Baldwin county students through National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Alabama GCC, provided an update regarding Community Rating System (CRS). RESTORE activities in the state. Addition- 13 different stations. New occupations in 2015 ally, Mona Amodeo, founder and president of include mental health, veterinary technician, medical assistant, dental assistant and physician Project Homeless Connect a suc- Idgroup, was the keynote speaker during lunch, assistant. Traditional stations include surgery, cess which also was the ACF’s annual meeting. “The Housing First, a local nonprofit agency Role of Engineering in the Future of Sustainabil- nursing, orthopedics, radiology, occupational whose mission it is to address homelessness ity” was the title of the panel discussion. and physical therapy,” Rak-Blanchard said.

18 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 19 THE REVIEW | CUISINE A stovetop man’s journey into baking BY ANDY MACDONALD/CUISINE EDITOR | [email protected]

or the past couple of issues, between restaurant reviews, I have been discussing the pros and cons of a gluten free diet. Indulge me one more time. Recently in my personal life I have remained free of the gluten protein F— basically as an experiment — but cheating on my diet when duty called. Don’t think for one minute that I am going gluten free for the rest of my life. This was to see what the fuss was all about. You are crazy if you think I will never have another Bud- weiser again. That is maybe what I miss the most. Compared to my friends I don’t eat a lot of sweets, so turning my back on the pastry world wasn’t tough until I was staring at Graham’s birthday cake. Two days later he wanted me to make him an apple pie. It’s hard for a man to sit idly by while his sons chow down. A father-son pie we cooked together should have been eaten together. But through it all I have been feeling remarkably better with much more energy. Maybe it’s because I am not eating as much crap. I was surprised at how many things I thought would be easy to give up, but it’s tougher than you think. The one thing I thought I wouldn’t miss is bread. Sure, I knew I would want a muffuletta or a shrimp po-boy from time to time, but bread was never a necessity otherwise. Some people eat bread with every meal. That disgusts me. I would much rather save room for meat and veggies. But here I am, just a few weeks into this experiment and I have a tremen- Photo/ wikipedia.org dous craving for bread. Your average supermarket will have gluten free pasta, In what he has promised as the end of his weeks-long gluten-free health and cooking experiment, crackers, rice flour, sorghum beer and more gluten free options Andy will return with more, perhaps less healthy options in the coming weeks. than I thought. But I haven’t found gluten free bread save for specialty shops and health food stores (I have yet to try any of these). So I thought it would be a nice idea to try and make my five minutes. Nothing ever foamed. Hmmm. You can imagine the excitement of turning up my heat to the own before I return to the practice of glutencraft. deathly hot temperature of 75. This was even less fun. I think of myself as a decent cook. I’m not great at much, Step 2: Add a whole egg plus enough egg whites to but for my own tastes I do pretty good and am not afraid to equal ¾ cup to the bread mix. Add ¼ cup of vegetable oil, a Step 5: After proofing the loaves were baked at 375 for experiment. If I have any talent, it would be on the stove and teaspoon of cider vinegar, and the yeast-milk mixture. I was 10 minutes then covered with foil to prevent over-browning. the grill. The oven and I have a love/hate relationship and we excited to use my egg separator (it’s a face and the whites Another 50 minutes should’ve done the trick. It didn’t (sigh). only cross paths while cooking casseroles, roasting meat, and come out of the nostrils) but I didn’t have enough whites to Ten minutes over schedule it began to look like proper bread. the occasional pan of cornbread. If it requires measurements, equal ¾ cup. Already I am bending the rules adding two more then I am less likely to cook it. Baking should be precise until yolks to round out the volume. Of course after my recent move I couldn’t find any cooling you understand the possible variations. This is why I have racks, so a cookie sheet had to do. I must admit my loaves never made bread. Ever. Step 3: Beat with a mixer at medium speed with regular were pretty ugly, but at least they rose nicely. After cooling For my bread I used a store-bought mix. Cheating you say? beaters for 3 minutes. I fought with this so much that I have no they deflated. It’s little more than a mixture of GF flours and a packet of idea if I actually got in 3 minutes of beating. It gummed up on The best I could hope for was a horrific looking loaf of yeast. The Super Bowl champs have done much worse. I grab the beaters every few seconds, so there was a lot of down time. bread with a good consistency and wonderful taste. What I got the rest of my materials and realize the other reason why I I did manage to get all of the dry parts wet, which I assume is was much less. Gummy, tasteless, dense, odd-smelling, these never bake bread. It’s just so time consuming. a good thing. were words I could use to describe my failed creation. I have other words not fit to print in these pages. Step 1: Mix yeast in a separate bowl with 1 2/3 cup of Step 4: Place dough in a 9-by-5 inch bread pan and cover It seems I’m not cut out for bread making, but had I warm milk. By warm I mean 110 degrees. Of course I over- with plastic wrap allowing dough to rise for a half hour in a executed this perfectly I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed the shot the temp and accidentally got the milk up to 130 or so. warm (75 to 80 degree) place. First, I didn’t have a 9-by-5 flavor. There was something about it even butter couldn’t help. Had to watch the thermometer until it cooled down. This is inch pan. I did, however, have two 7 and 3/8-by-3 and 5/8 inch Maybe there are gluten free breads out there worth eating, but already not fun. I mixed in the yeast and allowed it to foam for pans. These will have to do. Secondly, I prefer a cooler house. I’m leaving it to the pros. Look out, wheat. Here I come!

20 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 W ORD OF MOUTh CUISINE CC New happenings on LoDa have city salivating BY ANDY MACDONALD/CUISINE EDITOR | [email protected]

he former Samurai J building is shaping into a new up- shaped sprinkles. Get one for your girl. It’s guaranteed to get you scale eatery. Dumbwaiter is the new restaurant everyone some sugar. is talking about, and 167 Dauphin St. is starting to show signs that it won’t be long before we will have another Celebrate National Fondue Month at Melting Pot Tspot to dine in style. I don’t know who deemed February National Fondue Month, What we have right now is a sign that says “Coming Soon” but I guess it makes sense with all of the chocolate covered and a website ripe with sample menus for breakfast, lunch and strawberries. Though the month is listed just as fondue, Feb. 5 is dinner. Breakfast looks delicious with market price poached National Chocolate Fondue Day. lobster, omelets, pancakes and eggs Benedict. Lunch focuses on Mobile’s Melting Pot is encouraging everyone to celebrate sandwiches including but not limited to Dagwoods, Reubens, all things fondue by either visiting their restaurant on Montlimar Monte Christos, Sloppy Joes, and the usual suspects. Vegetarian Drive for monthly specials or by checking out some of their reci- entrees are also on the list. pes at www.fonduefanatics.com to celebrate at home. Dinner is where it’s at. The seafood heavy sample menu shines Of course if love is in the air then you must make reservations for Valentine’s Day. Specials run on the 13th and 14th, and if you with scallops, lobster, swordfish, shrimp and crab cakes as well as Photo/Melting Pot/Facebook more terrestrial items like rack of lamb, roasted duck, and grilled forget the roses they can take care of that, too. Just call them at sirloin. Sides are separate and are as tame as local veggies or as February is National Fondue Month. 251-341-7395. wild as stuffed squid. If they stick close to the sample menus then this place should Manor. The former Gus’ building is open for business in time Kitchen on George takes aim with Cupid’s bow be a hit. Judge for yourself by visiting www.dumbwaiterrestau- for Mardi Gras. With a fantastic courtyard the Manor houses the Another hot Valentine’s dinner is at the corner of George and rant.com. The sign is up and a quick peek in the window from the Azalea Lounge and is offering plenty of drink specials including Savannah. Kitchen on George is celebrating the day of love with street looks good. We will let you know as soon as they open. $5 Bahama Mamas, King Cake Martinis and Greek appetizers. a four-course dinner paired with wine selections for only $75 per couple! Right in the thick of the parade route, this spot provides a A jicama, citrus and watercress salad is paired with Coterenzio Noble South expanding with a wine bar touch of class if you get caught on the west side of Washington Pinot Grigio for starters. Second course finds a Columbia Valley You won’t get the full dinner menu, but the fine folks at Noble Street. Open from 4 until 10 p.m. Check out the Azalea Lounge Owen Row Sharecroppers Cabernet with blackened beef medal- South are working feverishly to open the small space next door. on Facebook. The future holds a wine bar that could possibly be the spot lions and gorgonzola cream sauce. If you aren’t a fan of oaky wines you will love the Chamisal to wait for your table to open. Expect cold plates. I will be okay Serda’s Screaming Moon Pie shot a tradition Stainless Chardonnay from California. It should go well with with that if they serve their delicious pickled shrimp. Any other New things are going on at Royal Street’s Serda’s Coffee Co. Lobster Capellini and leek tarragon cream sauce. For the ride way to enjoy the Noble South menu is a plus for our downtown along with some old favorites. Mardi Gras is here, so you must home you will be discussing bittersweet chocolate mousse paired food scene. visit for a Screaming Moon Pie shot. While there you should with Veuve de Vernay Brut from France. Until then enjoy their amazing lunch and dinner options. wash that shot down with their latest sandwich addition, the New Though they are not required, I would make reservations to Whatever you do, be sure and get the fried okra. Orleans style Muffuletta. be safe. Do this through Open Table or by calling 251-436-8890. If you make it in on Feb. 14, their new Valentine’s Day Latte Sounds like a spectacular deal to me. Azalea Manor opens Azalea Lounge will be an imperative that may become your next tradition. It’s Recycle those beads and have a safe and happy Mardi Gras The Bayou block of Dauphin Street has a new tenant in Azalea a chocolate and strawberry treat complete with adorable heart celebration!

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 21 steaks, extensive wine list. 6232 Bon D’ MICHAEL’S ($) MARS HILL CAFE ($) ROMA CAFE ($-$$) Secour Hwy County Rd. 10.• 949- Philly cheese steaks, gyros & more. Great sandwiches, coffee & more. Pasta, salad and sandwiches. 5086 7101-A Theodore Dawes Rd. 1087 Downtowner Blvd. 7143 Airport Blvd. • 341-7217 WINTzELL’S OySTER HOUSE ($-$$) 653-2979 643-1611 ROSIE’S GRILL ($-$$) 605 Dauphin St. • 432-4605 DELISH DESSERTS ($) MARy’S SOUTHERN COOKING ($) Sandwiches, southwest fare, 7 days 6700 Airport Blvd. • 341-1111 Great desserts & hot lunch 3011 Springhill Ave. • 476-2232 1203 Hwy 98 Ste. 3D, Daphne 1208 Shelton Beach Rd., MELLOW MUSHROOM ($) 626-2440 Saraland • 442-3335 23 Upham St. • 473-6115 $ UNDeR $10/PeRSON DEW DROP INN ($) Pies & awesome beer selection. ROyAL KNIGHT ($) zEA’S ($$) Steak night on fridays. $$ 10-25/PeRSON Gourmet rotisserie with prime rib Classic burgers, hotdogs & 2032 Airport Blvd. • 471-4700 $$$ OveR 25/PeRSON setting. 1808 Old Shell Rd. 5660 Old Shell Rd. • 380-1500 3004 Gov’t Blvd • 287-1270 & seafood. ROyAL STREET CAFE ($) 4671 Airport Blvd. • 344-7414 473-7872. MICHELI’S CAFE ($) DOWNTOWNERS ($) 6358 Cottage Hill Rd. • 725-6917 Homemade lunch & breakfast. Great sandwiches, soups & salads. MOMMA GOLDBERG’S DELI ($) 104 N. Royal St. • 434-0011 SAGE RESTAURANT ($$) Business Casual 107 Dauphin St. • 433 8868 Sandwiches & Momma’s Love. BONEFISH GRILL ($$) Completely E WING HOUSE ($) 3696 Airport Blvd. • 344-9500 Inside the Mobile Marriott. Eclectic dining & space. 3101 Airport Blvd. • 476-6400 ComfortaBle 195 S University Suite H 5602 Old Shell Rd. • 287-6556 SATORI COFFEEHOUSE ($) 6955 Airport Blvd. • 633-7196 662-1830. MONTEGO’S ($-$$) AL’S HOTDOGS ($) 2212 Dauphin Island Coffee, smoothies, lunch & beers. BAUDEAN’S ($$) Classic hotdogs, gyros & Pkwy • 479-2021 Fresh Caribbean-style food & craft Fried, grilled, steamed & always beer. 5460 Old Shell Rd. • 344-4575 milkshakes FIREHOUSE SUBS ($) 6601 Airport Blvd. SERDA’S COFFEEHOUSE ($) fresh. 3300 River Rd. 973-9070 634-3445 4701 Airport Blvd. • 342-3243 Hot subs, cold salads & catering. Coffee, lunches, live music & BOUDREAUX’S CAJUN GRILL ($-$$) ASHLAND MIDTOWN PUB ($-$$) 6300 Grelot Rd. MOSTLy MUFFINS ($) Quality Cajun & New Orleans Pizzas, pastas, & calzones. Muffins, coffee & wraps. gelato. 631-3730 3 Royal St. S. • 415-3000 Cuisine. 29249 US Highway 98 245-A Old Shell Rd. 479-3278 FISHERMAN’S LEGACy ($) 105 Dauphin St. • 433-9855 SMOKEy DEMBO SMOKE HOUSE Daphne. 621-1991 ATLANTA BREAD COMPANy ($-$$) Deli, market and catering. MUDBUGS AT THE LOOP ($) Sandwiches, salads & more. 3680 ($) 3758 Dauphin Island Pkwy. ED’S SEAFOOD SHED ($$) 4380 Halls Mill Rd. • 665-2266 Cajun Kitchen & seafood market. Fried seafood served in hefty Dauphin St. • 380-0444 473-1401 BENJAMIN’S ($) FIvE GUyS BURGERS & FRIES ($) 2005 Government St. • 478-9897 SPOT OF TEA ($) portions. 3382 Hwy. 98 • 625- 4401 Old Shell Rd. • 447-2393 MUG SHOTS ($$) Burgers,wings and seafood. Bar & Grill. Mobile’s favorite spot for breakfast & lunch. 1947 2107 Airport Blvd. • 450-9377 4663 Airport Blvd. • 300-8425 306 Dauphin St. • 433-9009. FELIX’S FISH CAMP ($$) BRIqUETTES STEAKHOUSE ($-$$) FOOSACKLy’S ($) 6255 Airport Blvd. • 447-2514 SOUTHERN DECADENCE DESSERTS Upscale dining with a view. Grilled steaks, chicken and Famous chicken fingers. NEWK’S EXPRESS CAFE ($) ($) Soups, Salads, Desserts & 1420 Hwy. 98 • 626-6710 seafood. 720A Schillinger Rd. S. 310 S. University Blvd. • 343-0047 Oven-baked sandwiches & more. Sandwiches. HALF SHELL OySTER HOUSE ($) Suite 2. • 607-7200 2250 Airport Blvd. • 479-2922 252 Azalea Rd. • 341-3533 1956 B University Blvd. 3654 Airport Blvd. • 338-9350 CAFE 219 ($) 7641 Airport Blvd. • 607-7667 OLD 27 GRILL ($) 300-8304 JOHN WORD’S CAPTAIN TABLE ($$) Salads, sandwiches & potato 2558 Schillinger Rd. • 219-7761. Burgers, dogs & 27 beers & wines. STEvIE’S KITCHEN ($) Come wine, dine and dance. salad. 219 Conti St. • 438-5234 3249 Dauphin St. • 479-2000 19992 Hwy. 181 Old County Rd. Sandwiches, stuffed potatoes, 2701 Battleship Pkwy • 433-3790 CAFE MALBIS ($) ISABELLA’S ($$$) Fairhope • 281-2663 soups, salads & desserts Contemporary fare & eclectic ORLEANS PO-BOyS ($-$$) LEGACy BAR & GRILL ($$$) 305 DeLaMare Ave, Fairhope 41 West I-65 Service Rd. N Suite spirits. 28396 Hwy. 181, Daphne • Po-boys, gumbo, seafood & wings. American, Seafood,Stekhouse. 990-5513 150. 661-6620 960 Schillinger Rd S. • 633-3900 TAMARA’S BAR & GRILL ($) 9 Du Rhu Dr. S. • 341-3370 CAJUN SEAFOOD ($) ISTANBUL GRILL ($) LUCy B. GOODE ($$) Authentic Turkish Resturant. ORLEANS CAFE ($-$$) Wings, po-boys, burgers. Seafood market & deli fresh Po-boys, gumbo, seafood & Gulf Coast cuisine, reinvented. 3702 Airport Blvd. • 461-6901 210 Eastern Shore Center, Hwy. 98 seafood. 408 Dauphin Island wings. 3721 Airport Blvd. • 380- 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores Pkwy. 478-9897 JAMAICAN vIBE ($) 929-0002 967-5858 CAMILLE’S SIDEWALK CAFé ($) Mind-blowing island food. 1503 TP CROCKMIERS ($) LULU’S ($$) Gourmet wraps, pizzas, & more. PANINI PETE’S ($) American Restaurant & Bar 3700 Government Blvd. Ste A Original sandwich and bake shop. Live music & great seafood. 5817 Old Shell Rd. 602-1973 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores 343-0200 JACK’S CATFISH CAMP ($$) 42 1/2 Section St., Fairhope THE BLIND MULE ($) 967-5858 CAMELLIA CAFé ($-$$$) Steak & Seafood 929-0122 Daily specials made from scratch. Contemporary southern fare. 19 S. Conception St. • 405-0031 57 N. Claiborne St. • 694-6853. ORIGINAL OySTER HOUSE ($-$$) 4815 Halls Mill Rd. • 661-4434 PDq ($) THE HOUSE ($-$$) A great place for kids and 61 Section St., Fairhope JIMMy JOHN’S ($) Chicken fingers, salad & Seafood, sandwiches, salads & soups seafood. 3733 Hwy. 98 • 626- 928-4321 Sandwiches, catering & delivery CAMMIE’S OLD DUTCH ($) sandwiches. 1165 University Blvd. 4513 Old shell Rd. • 408-9622 too. 6920 Airport Blvd. • 414- 2188 Mobile’s classic ice cream spot. 202-0959 THE HUNGRy OWL ($) OySTER ROCKEFELLER ($$-$$$) 2511 Old Shell Rd. • 471-1710 5444 PINzONE’S ITALIAN DOWNTOWN ($$) Burgers, flatbread pizza & 312 Schillingers Rd. • 607-9527 CARPE DIEM ($) JOE CAIN CAFé ($) Italian, catering, to-go seafood. 7899 Cottage Hill Rd. RICE ASIAN GRILL & SUSHI BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, cocktails. Deli foods, pastries & specialty 312 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope • 990-5535 633-4479 ($) 3964 Government Blvd. • 378- drinks. 4072 Old Shell Rd. 26 N. Royal St. • 338-2000 PINzONE’S ITALIAN vILLAGE ($$) THE vILLAGE DELI ($) KITCHEN ON GEORGE ($-$$) 8083 304-0448 312 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope • 990-5535 312 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope THE HARBOR ROOM ($-$$) CHAT-A-WAy CAFE ($) Contemporary American food. qUEEN G’S CAFé ($) 929-3354 Quiches & sandwiches in Spring Unique seafood. 351A George & Savannah St. Down home cooking for lunch. THREE GEORGES CANDy SHOP ($) Hill. 4366 Old Shell Rd. 343-9889 436-8890 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000 2518 Old Shell Rd. • 471-3361 Light lunch with Southern flair. TP CROCKMIERS ($-$$) CHICKEN SALAD CHICK ($) LAP’S GROCERy & GRILL ($-$$) 226 Dauphin St. • 433-6725 Sandwich, Chicken Salad, Salad REGINA’S KITCHEN ($-$$) American Restaurant & Bar Casual Seafood & southern Sandwiches, subs and soups. TROPICAL SMOOTHIE ($) & Soup. 2370 S. Hillcrest Rd. Unit classics. 1595 Battleship Parkway, Great smoothies, wraps & 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890 R • 660-0501 2056 Government St. • 476-2777 THE BLUEGILL ($-$$) CRAvIN CAJUN ($) Spanish Fort • 626-0045 RIvER SHACK ($-$$) sandwiches. Du Rhu Dr. • 378-5648 A historic seafood dive with live Po-boys, salads & seafood. MAGHEE’S GRILL ON THE HILL Seafood, burgers & steaks. 570 Schillinger Road • 634-3454 Great lunch & dinner. WILD WING STATION ($) music. 3775 Hwy. 98 • 625-1998 1870 Dauphin Island Pkwy ($-$$) 6120 Marina Dr., Dog River THE ITALIAN FISHERMAN ($$) 287-1168 3607 Old Shell Rd. • 445-8700 443-7318. 1500 Government St. • 287-1526 Seafood Italian style. CREAM & SUGAR ($) MAMA’S ($) ROLy POLy ($) yAK THE KATHMANDU KITCHEN 2503 Old Shell Rd. • 478-2881 Breakfast, lunch in Oakleigh. Ice Slap your mama good home Wraps & salads. ($-$$)Authentic foods from Himalayan region. TIN TOP RESTAURANT & OySTER BAR ($$) cream too. cooking. 809 Hillcrest Rd. • 607-6378 Best seafood, premium aged 351 George St. #B • 405-0003 220 Dauphin St. • 432-6262 3220 Dauphin St. • 479-2480 3210 Dauphin St. • 287-0115

22 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 THE TRELLIS ROOM ($$$) 28691 U.S. Highway 98 • 626-1999 of you. Italian dishes & local flair. WASABI SUSHI ($$) RAvENITE ($) 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 Battle House Hotel, Royal St. • 338-5493 Japanese cusine Pizza, Pasta, Salad & more HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS LOUNGE AT IP 3654 Airport Blvd. S. C • 725-6078 102 N. Section St. • 929-2525 CASINO RESORT SPA ($) yEN RESTAURANT ($) vIA EMILIA ($$) Brews & game on 65 screens. Authentic Vietnamese cuisine. a little Vino Homemade pastas & pizzas made 850 Bayview Ave. • 888-946-2847 DOMKE MARKET 763 Holcombe Ave. • 478-5814 daily. 5901 Old Shell Rd. • 342-3677 HIGH TIDE CAFé AT IP CASINO Wine, Craft Beer, Gourmet foods, Jubilee Shopping Center, Daphne 625-4695 RESORT SPA ($) ‘Cue & more. 2410 Dawes Rd. Ste. D. Casual & relaxing, extensive BACKyARD CAFE & BBq ($) 375-0599 olé mi amiGo! menu. 850 Bayview Ave. Home cookin’ like momma made. FATHOMS LOUNGE CABO COASTAL CANTINA ($) A tapas reaturant, cocktails & live is tHe Game on? 888-946-2847 2804 Springhill Ave. • 473-4739 BUFFALO WILD WINGS ($) 225 Dauphin St. • 441-7685 BR PRIME AT BEAU RIvAGE ($$-$$$) BAR-B-qUING WITH My HONEy ($$) music 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000 Best wings & sporting events. DAUPHIN ST. TAqUERIA ($) Enchiladas, tacos, & authentic Fine dining establishment. BBQ, burgers, wings & seafood RED OR WHITE 6341 Airport Blvd. • 378-5955 fare. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-2453 875 Beach Blvd. 19170 Hwy 43 Mt. Vernon. • 839-9927 323A De La Mare Ave, Fairhope • 990-0003 BUTCH CASSIDy’S ($) 1104 Dauphin St.. • 478-9494 EL CHARRO ($) 888-952-2582 BRICK PIT ($) Famous burgers, sandwiches & Finest Mexican in WeMo. JIA AT BEAU RIvAGE ($-$$) ROyAL STREET TAvERN wings. A favorite barbecue spot. Live music,martinis & a light 60 N. Florida St. • 450-0690. 7751 Airport Blvd. • 607-0882 Exotic Japanese, Thai, Chinese, 5456 Old Shell Rd. • 343-0001 dinner menu. CALLAGHAN’S IRISH SOCIAL CLUB FUEGO ($-$$) Korean & Vietnamese cuisine. 26 N. Royal St. • ($) Burgers & beer. DREAMLAND BBq ($) 338-2000 Outstanding Mexican cuisine. 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 Ribs, sandwiches & great sides. SOUTHERN NAPA 916 Charleston St. • 433-9374 2066 Old Shell Rd. • 378-8621 MEMPHIS q AT BEAU RIvAGE ($) HEROES SPORTS BAR & GRILLE ($) LOS ARCOS ($) 3314 Old Shell Rd. • 479-9898. Bistro plates, craft beers and pantry. Memphis-style Q. MOE’S ORIGINAL BAR B qUE ($) 2304 Main Street. • 375-2800 Sandwiches & cold beer. Quaint Mexican restaurant. 273 Dauphin St. • 433-4376. 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 Bar-b-que & music. Bayfront Park 5556 Old Shell Rd. • 345-7484 Hillcrest & Old Shell Rd. • 341-9464 LA COCINA ($) COAST RESTAURANT AT BEAU Dr., Daphne • 625-RIBS MCSHARRy’S IRISH PUB ($) Authentic Mexican cuisine. RIvAGE ($) 701 Springhill Ave. • 410-7427 falafel? try Brillant Reubens & Fish-N-Chips 4633 Airport Blvd. • 342-5553 Sports bar-style joint. SAUCy q BARBqUE ($) 101 N. Brancroft St. Fairhope SANTA FE GRILL ($) 875 Beach Blvd. • 888-952-2582 Award-winning BarBQue. some Hummus Locally-owned, fresh cuisine. 7 SPICE ($-$$) 990-5100 LB’S STEAKHOUSE AT GRAND 1111 Government Blvd. • 433-7427 3160 Bel Air Mall • 450-2440 Healthy, delicious Mediterranean food. THE LANDING ($) CASINO ($$-$$$) WHISTLE STOP ($) From seafood to steaks. Fine dining with juicy steak Home cookin’ & BBQ. 3762 Airport Blvd. • 725-1177 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy. • 973-2696 & fine wine. 110 S. Florida St. • 478-7427 ABBA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE ($-$$) LUCKy’S IRISH PUB ($) no GamBlinG 280 Beach Blvd. • 800-946-2946 Beef, lamb & seafood. Irish pub fare & more. CUU LONG SUPER PHO AT GRAND 4356 Old Shell Rd. • 340-6464 3692 Airport Blvd • 414-3000 Casino fare CASINO ($$) Drop DeaD JERUSALEM CAFE ($-$$) THE STADIUM ($) Asian noodle soups, bubble teas Mobile’s oldest Middle Eastern cuisine. Catch the games with great food. atmore & more. Gourmet 19270 Hwy. 98 Fairhope FIRE AT WIND CREEK CASINO & ALABAMA CRUISES ($$) 5773 Airport Blvd. • 304-1155 HOTEL ($$-$$$) 280 Beach Blvd. • 800-946-2946 KAN zAMAN CAFE ($) 990-0408 EMERIL’S GULF COAST FISH Fine dining & sailing from Of WEMOS ($) World-class prime steaks, 326 Azalea Rd. • 229-4206 Orange Beach • 973-1244 Wings, tenders, hotdogs & sandwiches. seafood & wine. HOUSE AT ISLAND vIEW CASINO BAy GOURMET ($$) MEDITERRANEAN SANDWICH ($$-$$$) Kick it up a notch. 312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-5877 303 Poarch Rd. • 866-946-3360 A premier caterer & cooking classes. COMPANy ($) Great & quick. GRILL AT WIND CREEK CASINO & 3300 W. Beach Blvd. 1880-A Airport Blvd. • 450-9051 274 Dauphin St. • 545-3161 HOTEL ($) 877-774-8439 CAFé 615 ($$-$$$) 2502 Schillinger Rd. Ste. 2 • 725- Contemporary & old-fashioned C&G GRILLE AT ISLAND vIEW American fare with local ingredients. 0126 mama mia! favorites. BENTz’S PIzzA PUB ($) CASINO ($) 615 Dauphin St. • 432-8434. MINT HOOKAH BISTRO ($) 303 Poarch Rd. • 866-946-3360 Large breakfast, lunch or dinner Great Mediterranean food. Homemade pizza and Italian CAFé ROyAL ($$-$$$) menu. 3300 W. Beach Blvd. Prime steak & seafood in elegant setting. 5951 Old Shell Rd. • 450-9191 dishes. 28567 County Rd. 13 • 625- Biloxi 877-774-8439 101 N. Royal St. • 405-5251 zORBA THE GREEK ($-$$) 6992 vIBE AT HARD ROCK HOTEL NOJA ($$-$$$) Shawarmah & baba ghanouj. BUCK’S PIzzA ($$) AND CASINO ($-$$) WAHOO’S POOLSIDE BAR & GRILL AT PALACE CASINO RESORT ($-$$) Inventive & very fresh cuisine. 1222 Hillcrest Rd, Ste. D • 633-2202 Delivery. Fine surf, turf, atmosphere & cigars. Fresh seafood & more. 6 N. Jackson St. • 433-0377 350 Dauphin St. • 431-9444 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-625 OSMAN’S RESTAURANT ($$) GAMBINO BROTHERS ($) RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE AT 158 Howard Ave. • 800-725-2239 Supreme European cuisine. far eastern fare Homemade pastas & sandwiches. HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO ($$$) MIGNON’S AT PALACE CASINO 2579 Halls Mill Rd. • 479-0006. BANGKOK THAI ($-$$) 873 Hillcrest Ave. • 344-8115 Exceptional servie & taste. RESORT ($$-$$$) Delicious, traditional Thai cuisine. Extraordinary wine, steaks & ROyAL SCAM ($$) GAMBINO’S ITALIAN GRILL ($) 777 Beach Blvd • 877-877-6256 Gumbo, Angus beef & bar. 3821 Airport Blvd. • 344-9995 Italian, Steaks, Seafood, seafood. BANzAI JAPANESE RESTAURANT HARD ROCK CAFé AT HARD ROCK 72. S. Royal St. • 432-SCAM (7226) 18 Laurel Ave. Fairhope • 990-0995 HOTEL AND CASINO ($) 158 Howard Ave. • 800-725-2239 RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ($$$) ($$) Traditional sushi & lunch. GUIDO’S ($$) American fare & rockin’ THE DEN AT TREASURE BAy Exceptional service & taste. 312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-9077 Fresh cuisine nightly on menu. GOLDEN BOWL ($) memorabilia. CASINO ($-$$) 271 Glenwood St. • 476-0516 1709 Main St., Daphne • 626-6082 Intimate & casual with daily specials. TAMARA’S DOWNTOWN ($$) Hibachi Grill & Asian Cuisine LA ROSSA ($$) 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-6256 309 Bell Air Blvd • 470-8033 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747-2839 Casual fine dining. Catering and Market. SATISFACTION AT HARD ROCK LIqUID ($$) HOTEL AND CASINO ($) Cq AT TREASURE BAy CASINO ($$-$$$) 104 N. Section St., Fairhope 1716 Main St. Ste. C, Daphne Amazing sushi & assortment of Southern favorites & fresh- Elegant atmosphere & tantalizing 929-2219 rolls. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-0109 625-0345 entrees. UNION ($$$) MIKATO JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE PICKLEFISH ($$) smoked meats. Premium steaks & burgers. 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747-2839 ($$) Upscale sushi & specialties. Pizza, sandwiches & salads. 777 Beach Blvd. • 877-877-6256 BLU AT TREASURE BAy CASINO ($) 659 Dauphin St. • 432-0300 364 Azalea Rd. • 343-6622 5955 Old Shell Rd.• 344-9899 TIEN AT IP CASINO THE BULL ($-$$) RESORT SPA ($-$$) Lounge with cocktails & tapas ROCK N ROLL SUSHI ($$) PAPA’S PLACE ($$) menu. N. Mexico/Santa Fe & Gulf Coast cuisine. 3299 Bel Air Mall. • 287-0445 A Taste of Italy . BYOB. Pan-Asian cuisine made in front 609 Dauphin St. • 378-5091 1980 Beach Blvd. • 800-747-2839

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 23 ELIx IRS CUISINE CC The Rose Kennedy, a classic cocktail for the coast BY W.T BANKHEAD/CONTRIBUTING WRITER | [email protected]

estern civilization, particularly in America, thrives fice, working in some environment you loathe. Some people spend on trends and has an increasing obsession with pop years searching for one specific beverage or simple concoction to culture. Whether it’s the latest song, the coolest new depend upon under these often weary circumstances. fashion out of Milan or the newest drink, trends have As a novice to spirits, I initially enjoyed a rum and coke, Wbecome increasingly popular, immediate and focused. perhaps these days known as a “Cuba Libre,” if you add some Back in the day, French wine was it, period. Now people are lime. Given current politics, this one is due for a major resurgence. going for Australian Shiraz, Chilean reds and Italian or even As my education and palate advanced, my cocktail of choice American Pinot Grigio. And with the advent of the Internet, we as became Tanqueray and tonic. After moving to Washington, D.C., I Americans have become more accelerated in our concentrated de- began to go with the flow. The District of Columbia’s status is that mand for “newness,” whether it’s a fresh-faced movie star, Ameri- of a “territory.” Washingtonians comprise approximately 647,000 can Idol or the most au courant refreshment. people, giving it more citizens than a couple of states. Yet, their Remember just about 15 years ago, when everyone wanted to representatives can’t even vote on Capitol Hill. be drinking Cosmopolitans with the girls on “Sex in the City?” Af- “Taxation without representation” is unconstitutional, and a Photo/Wikimedia ter that the Green Apple Martini conquered Los Angeles. And then situation that needs to be remedied. Because of The Kennedy The classic Rose Kennedy. there was the short-lived, but nonetheless notable popularity of the Center for the Performing Arts, President Kennedy’s assassination, Mojito. Unfortunately, it never quite made it to the champions. and the eternal flame at his grave, the Kennedy name will always Madras (which adds orange juice), Sex on the Beach (which adds Now I’m told that the Sidecar is making an enormous come- be revered and celebrated in Washington. And what better way to orange juice and schnapps), the Cosmopolitan, which adds triple back in Manhattan. More on that some other time. celebrate than with a libation named for one of the Kennedy fam- sec and lime juice, and the popular Rose Kennedy Cocktail, which I suspect that Andy Warhol’s prediction that “in the future, ev- ily’s founding members? includes club soda. It consists of varying amounts of vodka and eryone will be famous for 15 minutes,” is coming to fruition. But When I referenced “going with the flow,” I was referring to a club soda with a splash of cranberry juice for color and taste, with when something, whether it’s a Cary Grant, an Elizabeth Taylor popular drink with which you may already be acquainted. It’s a lime. The juice sweetens the drink and takes the edge off the or even a simple cocktail endures, acquires a minimal amount of cocktail popular in the Northeast known as a Cape Cod or Cape alcohol — plus, it makes it prettier. dignity, and maintains a level of timeliness and sustainability — it Codder. The name, of course, refers to the peninsula in Massa- The name refers not only to the rose color of the drink, but becomes a classic. To me, one of those cocktails, the Rose Ken- chusetts. The drink was conceived in 1945 by the Ocean Spray naturally to the matriarch of the Kennedy family of Cape Cod and nedy, falls right into that category. It is a classic. cranberry grower’s cooperative under the name “Red Devil.” JFK’s mother, Rose. Before I reveal to you the contents and preparation of this The name “Cape Codder” dates back to the early 1960s. In In most of the mid-Atlantic or northeast seaboard states you refreshment, I should point out that like most people, I’d always no time, I was saying to bartenders around Dupont Circle or can walk into any bar and ask for a Rose Kennedy, or simply a longed for the simplicity and reliability of having an establish- Georgetown, “I’ll have a Cape Codder, with extra lime, please.” “Rose” and the bartender will know exactly what you want. In ment to frequent, where a friendly bartender would give you a Yet, I now ask for call names like Absolut or Sky. Pinnacle’s not the South the name Rose Kennedy never really became common, knowing wink and ask the immortal question, “What’ll it be? The bad. My wallet isn’t fat enough for Grey Goose or Belvedere — so in a bar you should probably ask for “vodka, soda, splash of usual?” but I draw the line at some house brands we won’t mention. cranberry juice with lime.” It is served over ice and as refreshing It was almost a goal to achieve that paired down simplicity, a The Cape Codder is made with vodka and cranberry juice, and as a stroll along the beach, whether it’s in Martha’s Vineyard, or place where there were no decisions or choices to be made. Some- may be garnished with a lime wedge. The Cape Cod is also related Gulf Shores. Try it. times there’s a lot to be said for a “yes” or “no” question, no to a number of other cocktails, such as the Bay Breeze (which adds “The problem with Washington is that it combines Northern further explanation required, especially after a long day at the of- pineapple juice), the Sea Breeze (which adds grapefruit juice), hospitality with Southern efficiency.” - President John F. Kennedy

24 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 25 COVER STORY Local comic enthusiasts part of broad Sci-Fi industry nationwide BY KEVIN LEE/ARTS EDITOR | [email protected]

all it the ultimate irony of the digital revolution, but the Hayley’s Feb. 8 to welcome two stars of TVs “The Walking Dead” the future to help us bring bigger name guests here.” meek have finally ascended. Or more accurately, the geeks into his store, who will then head to the LoDa drinking hole to The guest list for Feb. 27 through March 1 is loaded with famil- have. watch the show air that night. iar names from franchises such as Star Trek, Star Wars, Dr. Who, Alpha nerds like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Malcolm “I go to all the major conventions in the region — Atlanta, New Game of Thrones, Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, X Files, Battlestar CGladwell and Nate Silver stand astride our world like Colossi with Orleans, wherever,” Barnett said. The revenue and connections on Galactica, Planet of the Apes, The Addams Family and Guardians pocket protectors. Steve Jobs became a prophet and astrophysicist those circuits are vital. of the Galaxy. That’s in addition to a number of artists, authors, Neil deGrasse Tyson has brought his own form of suave to high- “I really like Dragon Con,” Barnett said of Atlanta’s annual La- musicians and cosplayers. minded thought. bor Day event, where attendance last year was officially estimated “It’s interesting to see generations of families here because the Hollywood has a surfeit of comic, graphic novel and fantasy- at 63,000. “There’s normally a college football game, an Atlanta parents will be totally into other guests and the kids will be into based films from sources such as Stan Lee and J.R.R. Tolkien. They Braves game and a NASCAR race going on that same weekend, someone else that their parents don’t even know about,” Manning only added to the longtime popularity of Star Wars and Star Trek maybe Gay Pride week going on as well and it makes for a wonder- said. franchises. ful mix of people and culture.” Mobile’s version of these gatherings — Mobicon — is readying Television has followed suit. The success of “Game of Thrones,” for its 18th year, according to spokesperson Michael Steelman but “The Big Bang Theory” and “Sherlock” — he’s a walking intellect The pros of cons it has a longer history. with shabby social skills, after all — only add to the zeitgeist. Online ticketing service and event organizer Eventbrite suggest “Originally it started in the ‘80s, was Mobi-Con and was run by The uncool is now what’s cool. Even in traditional Mobile, a comic conventions spawn an accumulated $600 million in eco- some local comic book stores. They reorganized after things fell longtime stronghold of athletes and debutantes, it doesn’t take nomic activity annually. The popular festivals of geek chic focus apart and made it a nonprofit,” Steelman said. He joined up around much to discover nerd culture that arguably began when software on more than comics, pulling in science fiction, anime and horror a decade ago. mavericks QMS became financial titans in the 1980s. enthusiasts to boot. The event has changed calendar slots and locations. Originally The 28th version of Dragon Con generated an estimated $55 in early May, they have moved to Memorial Day weekend as part Inked up million in direct economic impact. Festival organizers said it also of the geographic shift. When Rando Dixon was crowned champion of the Mobile generated more than $115,000 in donations and 500 pounds of food “We started out at the hotel on the Causeway that was ravaged Arts Council’s 2014 Art Throwdown — an annual beat-the-clock items for local food banks. by a hurricane,” Steelman said. “Then we moved to the Beltline for challenge and fundraiser for the umbrella organization — it was a Barnett proffered New Orleans’ Wizard World as the largest con 10 years but we outgrew that so we’ve come down to the River- victory on several fronts. Dixon’s chief pursuit is comic-book art, a within a four-hour drive, guessing it had around 30,000 attendees. view. We found better rates for our attendees down there.” medium traditionally dismissed despite the efforts of Roy Lichten- That status might not last long. Steelman said they capped 2014 attendance at 1,100. He said stein. “We’re expecting 25,000-30,000 for 2015,” Manda Manning they also rotate their charitable giving between various causes. July 4, 2012 saw the birth of another American dream when said in December 2014. “All our VIP weekend passes are gone and “Last year we donated $7,000 to the Teal Life Foundation, Daniel Westbrook unlocked the door at his FOS Comics in west our day passes go on sale in January.” which helps women with ovarian cancer,” Steelman said. “This Mobile. FOS? Fortress of Solitude. Manning is marketing director and spokesperson for Pensacola’s year we’ll be doing Woody’s Song School for autistic children.” “It had been something I had wanted to do since Mobile’s last new convention Pensacon, whose sole outing in 2014 was the best Early on, Mobicon was centered around gaming. That has shops closed in the early 2000s,” Westbrook said. “My grandpar- kind of shock. Homegrown by local sons Mike Ensley and Ben Ga- changed with the times as 2014’s tally of more than 50 vendors ents would take me out to buy old comic books. This was some- lecki, big dreamers and veterans of convention culture, the promo- attested. thing to remember them and something I loved as a kid.” tion team developed a strategy for limited resources with billboards “We partner with Mobicon and set up with them every year While comic sales were available at the west Mobile flea mar- at Dragon Con and San Diego’s Comic-Con, where estimated 2014 since they’re our local con,” FOS Comics’ Westbrook said. “I travel ket, an exclusive storefront with hours beyond the weekend was attendance numbered more than 130,000. personally to the different cons in the region, too, probably three to absent. The niche was open. “We expected maybe 10,000 (people),” Manning said. “We had four a year.” “Originally we were down the road at Skyland shopping center 17,000 on the first day. We found out the Bay Center has a capacity “We try to do anything that would be fan-related: comic books, where the bowling alley was,” Westbrook said. “We outgrew it of 15,000 and we got to know the fire marshal real well.” horror, science fiction, gaming,” Steelman said. “Cosplay was our first year in business which is why we moved up one shopping Manning attributed the phenomenal success to the number of something that has really taken off lately. We’re looking at having center to Skyline.” downtown businesses that climbed on board, with activities stretch- our first ever cosplay guests.” In 2013, 99 Issues Comic Books & Gaming opened across ing out across all adjacent blocks downtown. Merchants were ebul- from the University of South Alabama. Success was so immediate, lient over receipts they claimed were the best of the year. Identity games another location opened in Daphne in November 2014. Manning said they raised over 2,000 pounds of food for Manna A portmanteau of “costume” and “play,” cosplay has become “We’re on the verge of opening another one in Fairhope,” owner Food Pantries in 2014. An economic study estimated the impact as one of the most visible elements of comic conventions nationally. Chris Barnett said in January. “I’ve got a location over there but $1.4 million, with 5,000 hotel room nights generated. An Emmy-winning public television documentary “Cosplay: Craft- I’m not ready to reveal it just yet.” “Everyone was very well behaved. We didn’t have a single inci- ing a Secret Identity” revealed the intensive labor and creativity What’s his secret? It’s a familiar formula of locale and timing. dent or arrest,” Manning said. “They’re all coming together as fans that grips devotees. “This area is just starved for this kind of thing,” Barnett said. and it’s like one big community.” Individuals boast elaborate home workshops engineered for “It’s people that grew up with it, plus little kids are coming around The nascent convention made sure to start by treating its head- skills like metal smithing or plastic fabrication. Others have turned to enjoying it.” lining special guests with the utmost hospitality. The difference was the hobby into full-time occupation, forging a career out of creating Stretching beyond stereotypes like Jeff Albertson, “The Simp- noted. impeccably detailed costumes, film-worthy creations employing a sons’” Comic Book Guy, Barnett is tying his store to more common “They have begun spreading the word through friends, the number of crafts. adult pursuits. He will partner with downtown nightlife institution circuit and the industry,” Manning said. “I think that will help us in Texan-turned-Mobilian Thomas Leytham was a self-described

22 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 “anime nerd” when he went to his first hand-glued while the bottom and top were convention in San Antonio three to four copper and brass. years ago. A larger experience followed. “I prefer to work with my hands so I don’t “Then I went to one in Los Angeles and do a lot of metalsmithing,” Kennedy said. it was awesome,” Leytham said. “I was “Some manipulation and soldering but no hooked.” welding.” Calling himself a “casual cosplayer,” he Kennedy taught himself needed skills, seeks to hone his skills through associations including sewing. He cosplays with his wife with other players. There’s also the matter of Hope in tandem costumes normally drawn funds. from Japanese comics. “Cosplay is expensive,” Leytham said. “I The Kennedys crossed paths with Carwie would love to but I have to be more stable at an Atlanta convention then discovered with my jobs. The time and skill and making they lived across Mobile Bay from each it to shows takes a lot.” other. When she needed an elaborate axe for One of Leytahm’s chief collaborators and a recent costume, Carwie turned to her new inspirations is Katie Carwie, a passionate friends. Mobile cosplayer who came by her skills Other, less friendly interactions are also a honestly. It’s a legacy tied to one of Mobile’s part of the cosplay world. Sexual harassment deepest traditions. has become a hot-button issue with conven- “My grandmother is a famous Mardi Gras tions, vexing participants. seamstress. She made most of the trains for “There’s people that sometimes they’re the court,” Carwie said. “If it wasn’t for her I like, ‘Oh, can I take a picture with you,’ and don’t think I would be as into sewing as I am they’ll grab you in an awkward way and you and I don’t think I would believe in myself as just have to say, ‘I’m sorry I’ll take a picture much. I learned everything from her.” with you but don’t touch me like that,’” Another anime fan, Carwie said she Carwie said. attended around 15 conventions last year. She’s had to ask security personnel to About six of those were as a guest by the intervene at other times. The misperceptions alias of Mina Cosplay. come frequently. “Some of the places will actually pay you “Yeah, people ask me about it and they’re to come to them but I haven’t put myself out like ‘Oh, cosplay. That’s a fetish thing, there as much,” Carwie said. “I have been right?’” Carwie said. “No, there’s nothing approached for it. I’ve worked as a ‘booth dirty about it. I’ve worn costumes that didn’t babe’ for a couple of conventions where they cover very much but that’s exactly what the paid me to stand near their booth to draw in character wore and I wanted to replicate and people.” bring to life the character. I didn’t want to The hobby takes a toll. There’s both time just parade around in a skimpy outfit.” issues and costs of costumes, fabrics, materi- She is also capable of objectivity. Things als and wigs among other expenses and to a she sees at conventions raise questions with sushi chef like Carwie, it’s sizable. her. “Each costume is about $200 to $300 to “I think the main problem is a lot of make. Convention costs can get up to about people thinking like lingerie is OK for $500 and getting there is about $200,” Car- people to wear to conventions, or they’ll take wie said. “So you’re spending thousands a a regular costume that might be OK fully year and when you look at that it makes you clothed and turn it into something that goes think you have to stop.” too far,” Carwie said. With continual revisions, her average cos- The result has been the rise of the “Co- tume can eat up as much as 200 hours. That splay Does Not Equal Consent” movement. figure mirrors what another of her collabora- Both Manning and Steelman readily note tors estimated. awareness and security measures. “One staff I made probably took a couple Even so, respect can be hard to come by. of hundred hours,” Stephen Kennedy said. In the way Dixon’s comic art was once mar- “I’m a perfectionist though.” ginalized, cosplayers can encounter the same. His job at Home Depot provided Kennedy “I think cosplay should be taken more with access to the wood, resins, fiberglass seriously because these people have skills and metals he needed to make the prop for your average person doesn’t have,” Carwie Syaoran, a character from the manga series said. “People will look at it and be like ‘oh “Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle.” It was well, that’s just a costume.’ I’m like ‘well, sanded to a mirror finish with 2,000-grit here’s some fake fur and a sewing machine. sandpaper and also contained 556 individual Make me some goat legs and tell me how wooden sticks that were hand-painted and long it takes.’”

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 23 ARTIFICE | ART It’s time for Mobile to elevate the nerd arts BY KEVIN LEE/ARTS EDITOR | [email protected]

ust two years ago I stood in the lobby of the Mobile Museum to write. Some of the deepest and most philosophically reflective of Art chatting with new director Deborah Velders and some- works I’ve ever read belong to that genre. Though integral to the how we touched on the subject of cosplay. When I offered story, the technological wrapping hides commentary on social is- admiration for the elaborate craftsmanship and creativity that sues and the very essence of humanity. Without that resonant core, Jwent into much of the garb, Velders politely and honestly admitted it’s nothing. her unfamiliarity. Discounting certain artistic genres can be a part of cultural I wasn’t shocked. Velders had just never had occasion to learn memes and reinforcements. In a town awash in Mardi Gras cos- about it. tuming, where even the city ambassadors are high school girls in Though it was no reflection on her, I’ve long been aware of the elaborately stylized costumes based on antebellum stereotypes, way certain creative pursuits have been traditionally marginalized in modern cosplayers have been a subculture mostly ignored in local our culture at large. media and awareness. Take a show like “The Twilight Zone,” now considered a clas- It’s more proof artistic pursuits surround us, even in places we’re sic of television’s golden age. In its five seasons, it only received just not looking. It comes with the species. one Emmy award nomination as Best Dramatic Series. Though it My idealistic self believes most of us have an innate yen toward boasted a galaxy of up-and-coming stars, none were nominated creativity. Though we call them “primitive,” ancient cultures saw for individual performances. Neither were its burgeoning direc- no separation of art from everyday life. Whether it was the unique tors, composers, set decorators, makeup artists, or special effects rendering of practical objects and musical instruments, the fashion- Photo/Mobicon/Facebook technicians. Producer Rod Serling managed to grab two Emmys ing of stories and song or the crafting of religious iconography, for writing, but a roster of names like Ray Bradbury, Richard creativity was inseparable from tribal life. Can sci-fi enthusiasts ever expect respect from Matheson, Earl Hamner, Jr., Jerry Sohl and George Clayton John- Though they wouldn’t say as much, they knew art could be most the arts community? son were ignored. effective when it’s DIY. The process is as important as the result. great. They shouldn’t stretch beyond what makes them comfortable. “The Outer Limits” was much the same, earning only one Something happens in your brain when you create. It’s cathartic, Yet, other cities have more than one convention, often of drastically nomination in two seasons, for art direction. Back then, the staid encouraging and satisfying. varying sizes, so there’s no reason we couldn’t do the same. bunch at the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences saw sci- Digression aside, comic conventions are erected around creative Or maybe we just like staring at a seldom-filled convention ence fiction, fantasy and horror literature as “kid stuff” unworthy pursuits. Literature, screenwriting, acting, costuming, makeup, center marooned across Water Street. Heck for the money we spent, of serious consideration. various facets of design, visual arts, they all come together to share we could have built a replica of the Millenium Falcon or the star- That’s changed over the decades — ask Stephen King and center stage at those events. That makes comic conventions a ship Enterprise instead of the GulfQuest maritime museum and I George Lucas atop their mountains of money — but it still con- creative industry. guarantee it would have pulled in more visitors. tinues to be somewhat esoteric. For instance, when is the last time As I asked in this space a couple months back, why can’t we We’re a city with a pair of astronauts and a bona fide rocket you ran into a science fiction writer? We’ve got plenty of scribes in more fully take advantage of these opportunities? The windfall fig- scientist to our credit — Clifton Williams, Kay Hire and Lonnie the area; Lagniappe did a cover story not too many years ago about ures are clear in the cover story for this issue. Pensacon’s immedi- Johnson, respectively — so to not have a bigger presence of nerd Mobile’s literary history and accolades. But science fiction, a genre ate success shows we’ve missed yet another chance — “perpetual arts on our resume is just so, well, “19th century.” that dates back to Mary Shelley, H.G. Wells and Jules Verne? Good potential” and all — with something that was apparently begging to But considering how many locals seem preoccupied with that luck with that. be exploited. era, maybe it’s just as well. A lot of the reason is that good science fiction is incredibly hard Mobicon is happy with their event at its modest size and that’s

28 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 29 ART GALLERY | ART At the heart of the matter BY KEVIN LEE/ARTS EDITOR | [email protected]

f you were a participant in 2014’s Temporal City Project, you likely recall the dramatic installa- tion at the tour’s finale. It was a 10-foot heart created by Jillian Crochet and dramatically lit in one of the darkened rooms on an upper level of the old Scottish Rites Temple. Word had it some of the guests were so moved by the experience, tears were shed. IFor the month containing Valentine’s Day, Crochet’s coronary masterpiece — My Beating Heart — made of various hues of red yarn and a wire framework, will be on display at the Mobile Arts Council, 318 Dauphin St. Aside from the annual holiday for attraction, the object bears significance for the artist as “a universally personal connector for each participant. Yarn lends a fluidity that expresses the transient movement in life.” The eager are invited step into the center of the installation and make the heart “beat” by tugging at a pull hanging inside. Crochet likened it to “an embrace or comforting blanket.” “I like to hover between the line of functioning and non-functioning works of art, offering a participatory element allows me to give each viewer a controlled and deeply personal experience,” Crochet said in a statement. “The works in crochet examine the historical relationship between fe- male identity and craft. The participant can further identify with the installation because of their own familiarity to family heirlooms created in a similar style.” The installation will remain in place until Feb. 27. The offices are open to public Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info, call 251-432-9796 or go to mobilearts.org. Speaking of Temporal City …

he artists’ collective Rumor Union has gone through some change in the last year, not the least of which has been relinquishing their former base camp The Hive to Delta Bike Project and Mobile Maker Space. While Temporal City Festival is no more, we caught a few, well, rumors (there, I said it) that public installations of the pop-up variety might be in store for Tthe 2015 calendar. Though only in the planning stages, the guerilla art project is exactly the sort of activity we expect from these upstarts and are glad this latest incarnation brings them out again. The as yet unnamed project is slated to appear beyond their former haunts within Midtown and Downtown so keep your eyes open. Museum laughs on tap in Fairhope ontemporary playwright Luis Januzzi not only has a laundry list of fellowships and grants to his credit, but the awards to accompany them. His accolades include prizes from Ireland, Scotland and the United Kingdom, a Goshen Peace Prize and two times as a finalist in the Eugene O’ Neill National Playwriting Conference. CHis 2007 play “Exhibit This! The Museum Comedies” might be one of his most ambitious. In an attempt to build artistic appreciation through laughter, Januzzi put together a fast-paced collection of one-acts and monologues set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art where paintings, sculptures, antiquities and fertility gods spring to life. The six acts and six monologues are also interspersed with a misguided tour that crops up interstitially, all under the guidance of Jonne Thornton. The play runs Feb. 19 through March 1. Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows start at 8 p.m. Sunday matinees are at 2:30 p.m. Admission is $18, $12 for students. For more info, call 251-928-4366 or visit theatre98.org or their Facebook page. Mobile Chamber Music hosts South American guitarist rgentine guitarist Roberto Aussel was scarcely in grade school when he took up tutelage under renowned classical guitarist Jorge Martinez Zarate. His promise was immediately evident. While still a youngster he won first prize in a variety of international competitions. His performancesA in Brazil’s Radio France International Guitar Competition, Venezuela’s Alirio Diaz Competition were notable and he won 1999’s Konex de Platino prize in Argentina. His talent inspired Astor Piazolla to pen his first-ever composition for guitar. In time, Marius Constant, Francis Schwartz and Jose Luis Campana followed suit with compositions for Aussel. In mid February, this international superstar will fascinate Mobilians as a guest of the Mobile Chamber Music Society. Two events are planned. One is a free, intimate affair at Satori Coffee (5460 Old Shell Road) on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Word has it Aussel will perform some of the Piazolla piece. Space is very limited so call 251-344-4575 for info on capacity and seating. The larger event is Aussel’s concert at USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center on Feb. 15 at 3 p.m. The program for the afternoon includes works by Tedesco, Rodrigo, Domeniconi and hom- ages to Bela Bartok and Django Reinhardt among others. Tickets are $20, $10 for students. Cash or check only please. For more info, call 251-476-8794 or go to mobilechambermusic.org.

30 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 31 FEATURE | MUSIC Diverse music collective helps celebrate O’Daly’s anniversary BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

Band: O’Daly’s 5th Anniversary featuring Moon Taxi, ELEL Date: Friday, Feb. 6 with doors at 7:30 p.m. Venue: O’Daly’s Irish Pub, 564 Dauphin St., www.odalysirishpub.com Tickets: $15 in advance/$20 day-of through Ticketfly ince the Irish pub O’Daly’s made a lonely stretch of BE: It’s kind of a sound that can’t Dauphin Street a little greener five years ago, it has really be pinpointed to any region. I gathered such a crowd of regulars it spawned two sister feel like Nashville music is soul music bars next door, Draft Picks and Dauphin St. Blues at its core. It’s not necessarily the Company.S They’ve also incorporated national touring bands into soul genre, but soul comes from deep their festive event schedule, opening their backyard at times for within yourself. Nashville has always larger productions. On Feb. 6, they are bringing the whole family been a place like that. It’s mostly been together for an epic five-year anniversary celebration, featuring country music, but those are some of Nashville-based, progressive indie band Moon Taxi as the head- the best soul-filled songs we can all liner. Warming up the crowd will be the lesser-known, but equally sing along with about the joy and hurt talented ELEL. of life. In that sense, I think it does fit ELEL is an eight-piece collective also from the Music City. well in Nashville, and we’ve all ended Founded in 2013, they have caused a stir with the success of their up here from all these different places. first single “40 Watt,” a track featured on their upcoming debut In another sense, it does not sound full-length “Geode,” which will be released this summer. “40 very defined. For instance, JoJo Watt” has been receiving tons of airplay on Sirius XM’s Alt. Na- (Jackson) is from Brooklyn and mostly tion, which has steadily earned them new fans nationwide. Vocal- played in punk bands. So, her bass ist/instrumentalist Ben Elkins sat down with Lagniappe to discuss playing has this driving edginess to it his band’s rise. I might not have known was going to SC: ELEL is eight members strong. How did it grow into the be a bass vibe of the group. She brings musical monster it is? Have there always been eight members? that in, and we make it fit. BE: Not at all, that was not the intention. What sane person It’s interesting how our work ethic would want eight members in their band? It kinda just happened. I is very unique with so many personali- Photo/ facebook.com/elelmusic did a lot of the music I recorded on my own, and then I got people to ties from so many places. It’s challeng- join in toward the end. It’s really layered. It’s not necessarily full all ing for me as a leader to steer the ship It’ll be a full house as ELEL joins Moon Taxi for O’Daly’s 5th anniversary. the time, but it’s very layered. There are lots of textures and stuff. when we’re practicing or when we’re A lot of bands these days will play with background tracks stopping in a town. Everybody has their and pre-recorded tracks, and I really wanted to avoid that if pos- own way of living. There’s so many posi- sible. Once I kind of stumbled into using horns on a few of the tives to it. SC: What can we expect from the rest of the tracks on “Geode?” songs, it kind of blew it up from a regular five-piece band to an A lot of the bands around Nashville I like tend to have four BE: There’s a lot of grooviness to the music with a lot of per- eight-piece band. guys who grew up together and are sometimes family. One of the cussion and vocals like “40 Watt.” However, the next single we’re Often times, like when we play in Mobile, there are only seven things I’ve enjoyed about being in this band is everybody is so releasing is a little more on the softer side. It’s still danceable. Like of us. We do sometimes play with two drummers, like these last different. We’re constantly learning about each other, and I guess “Rock With You” by Michael Jackson, you can’t not dance to it. two shows this weekend, including the ones in Nashville. It’s just the way it comes out musically is that we do learn about each All the performances on the recording are really soft. The drums easier to get everybody out and coordinated. other and get past the challenges. It ends up coming out in the live are softly played. That’s the vibe for one or two of the other songs. Initially, I knew there had to be a trumpet involved, so I met show, because we’re thrilled. We get over the hump of the distance It’s more subtle and calmer. “40 Watt” is the biggest, most bom- this guy named Frederick (Weathersby) and started hanging out between each other bastic song on the album. There’s also a song we usually end the with him. He started coming to practices. I think he was hang- show with. It’s almost Tom Petty-esque. It’s a huge anthemic, driv- ing out with his friend Stefan (Forbus), who plays saxophone. SC: “40 Watt” is the first single from “Geode,” and it has been ing song with lots of vocal harmonies. I think if people enjoyed He brought him along to practice. I didn’t want to waste Stefan’s doing quite well. How does it feel to have your first shot be such “40 Watt,” then they’ll enjoy the rest of it, even though the songs time, so I was like, ‘Hey, you’re here. Do you wanna join in on a hit? aren’t the same. these songs?’ Now, he’s an integral part of the band. Once he and BE: Man, it’s a real thrill. It’s very unexpected too. That song SC: ELEL did Bonnaroo last summer. What’s your plans for Fredrick started playing percussion on these songs, it just became has been around for a while in our world. It’s the oldest song we this summer? this thing we can’t live without. play. It always resonated with us, and we’ve always loved it. To BE: Bonnaroo times two (laughing). I don’t know. We haven’t It just works. I know it’s not very practical in a lot of senses, see we can have this broader audience has been very exciting. It’s heard anything about specific festivals. We haven’t even booked but the live show works so well with everybody. It just resonates definitely opening a lot of doors for us. Everything that’s happened anything past April. Everything is growing really quickly. I’m hop- with the crowd and ourselves onstage while we’re doing it. with this band outside of Nashville has happened because of that ing for some festivals and touring a lot this summer, because that’s SC: You’ve got members who come from places ranging from one song. But we’re excited about the possibilities of the two or when the album will be coming out. We’re definitely a festival Mississippi to New York. What effect if any does it have on your three other singles we haven’t put out there yet I like even more kind of band. A festival setting outdoors in the evening on a big sound? than “40 Watt.” I can’t wait to put one out called “Kiss Kiss.” stage works the best for us.

32 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 33 AREA MUSIC LISTINGS FEbRUARy 5 - FEbRUARy 11

Creswell, John Joiner, Darrel Roberts, Jezebel’s Chill’n, 6p//// Hart Break Hill, THUR. FEB 5 6p//// Hung jury, 9:30p//// Smokin’ 10p MON. FEB 9 BLUEGILL— Kyle & Karl, 6p Elvis’, 10p Garage— Foxy Iguanas Cockeyed Charlie’s— Dave Chatel Blues Tavern— Donnie Skidmore, Hard Rock (Center Bar)— Hard Rock (Center Bar)— Felix’s— Alan Hartzell 8:30p Supercharger Supercharger Flora Bama— Cathy Pace, 4p// Cockeyed Charlie’s— Karaoke w/ Hard Rock (Live)— Earl Thomas IP Casino— Vicki Lawrence and Elaine Petty, 8p Haley Conley, 8p Mama, 8p Lulu’s— Brent Burns, 4p Felix’s— Jerri Legacy— David Chastang, 6p// Legacy— Johnny Hayes and John Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Denver Flora Bama— J. Hawkins, 3p// Bo Rumor Mill, 9p Cochran Hawsey, 5p Roberts, Mark Sherrill, Chris Newbury, Lulu’s— Sugarcane Jane, 4p Lulu’s— Cadillac Attack, 4:10p R-Life Live— Ryan Balthrop Mickey Springston, 5:30p//// Crystal Main Street Cigar Lounge— McSharry’s— DJ Lewis, 10p Shawanda & DeWayne Strobel, 9p Swamp Dog Honey, 8p Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Ryan TUE. FEB 10 Garage— Perry Wall McSharry’s— DJ Lewis, 10p Balthrop Band, 5p BLUEGILL— Jeff Johnson, 6p Legacy— Ryan Balthrop, 7p Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Honey R-Life Live— Grant Dunaway Butch Cassidy’s— Andy Lulu’s— Adam Holt, 4p Island Swamp Band, 10p Tropics— Budz MacDonald McSharry’s— Rock Bottom, 7:30p Moe’s BBQ (Daphne)— Lee Soul Kitchen— GlowRage, 9p Cockeyed Charlie’s— Matt Neese Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Yankie and the Hellz Yeah, 8p Veets— The Family Jewels, after Felix’s— Sergio Rangel Yellowhammer Productions O’Daly’s— Moon Taxi parade Flora Bama— Cowboy Johnson, Old 27 Grill— Songwriters Night, Old 27 Grill— Christina Christian, 3p// Perdido Brothers, 7p 6:30p 6:30p SUN. FEB 8 Lulu’s— Neil Dover, 4p AREA MUSIC LISTINGS | Picklefish— Danny Spiro and the R-Life Live— Lee Yankie BLUEGILL— Dale Drinkard, 11a// Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Allie Logan, Wingmen, 9p Tropics— Unseen Evidence Fat Lincoln, 6p 5p R-Life Live— Grant Dunaway Soul Kitchen— Elements: Hip-Hop Callaghan’s— Eric Erdman and The R-Life Live— David Chastang Veets— Kenny Berry, Veet & Jeff Showcase, 9p Hussy Kicks Shipp’s Harbor Grill— Brent Fidler, 8p Veets— The Family Jewels, after Felix’s— Bobby Butchka Burns, 4:30p parade Flora Bama— Johnny Barbato Veets— Peek, after parade FRI. FEB 6 Windmill Market— Grayson Capp, & Luther Wamble, 12p// Perdido Beau Rivage— ESPN Friday Night 6p Brothers, 4p//// Wes Loper & Thomas WED. FEB 11 Fights, 5:30p Jenkins, 8p BLUEGILL— Ross + 1, 6p Bill’s by the Beach— Sam Glass, SAT. FEB 7 IP Casino— Free Asian Show, 9p Blues Tavern— Art & Lou, 8p 7p Bill’s by the Beach— Mel Knapp, Lulu’s— Greg Brown, 1p// Greg Callaghan’s— Deluxe Trio Blind Mule— Glno and the Goons 7p Brown, 5p Cockeyed Charlie’s— Dave Chatel with Hibachi Stranglers, 10p Blind Mule— Comedy Whatever, Moe’s BBQ (Mobile)— Tim Kinsey, Felix’s— Bobby & Jana BLUEGILL— Dale Drinkard, 11a// 10p 5p// JD Wilkes and the Dirt Daubers, Flora Bama— Rebecca Barry, 11a// Tim Kinsey, 6p BLUEGILL— Harrison McInnis, 6p 9p Neil Dover, 3p/// Smokin’ Elvis’, 7p Blues Tavern— Jim Suhler, 9p Blues Tavern— Ric McNaughton Old 27 Grill— Lisa Zanghi, 11:30a Legacy— Lee Yankie, 7p Cockeyed Charlie’s— Shawna P Band, 9p Picklefish— Bayou Rhythm, 12p Lulu’s— Birds of Paradise Mardi Gras Trio Callaghan’s— Melissa Joiner Pinzones— Ross Newell, 5p ft. The Tip Tops, 6p DeCuba— Dauphin Street Allstars Cockeyed Charlie’s— DJ Chill R-Life Live— Lee Yankie R-Life Live— Brett LaGrave Felix’s— Blind Dog Mike Felix’s— Soulshine Veets— The Family Jewels, after Shipp’s Harbor Grill— Brent Flora Bama— J. Hawkins & James Flora Bama— LeaAnne Creswell & parade Burns, 4:30p Daniel, 2p// Jack Robertson Show, Join Joiner, 2p// Jack Robertson Show, Veets— Grits N’ Pieces, 8p 5:30p/// Jay Williams, 6p//// LeaAnne 5:30p//// Rebecca Barry Band, 9:30p////

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34 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 AREA CLUb LISTINGS [DOWNTOWN] 9 N Jackson St. 285-4596 Ravenite Pizzeria [Fairhope] 251-967-LULU Trader’s Serda’s Coffee Company 102 N. Section St. | 929-2525 Pink Pony Pub [Gulf Shores] 4015 Battleship Pkwy Alchemy Tavern www.serdas.com Rosie’s Grill and Record Bar www.pinkponypub.net 626-5630 alchemy.joltpro.com 3 S. Royal St. | 415-3000 [Daphne] 137 East Gulf Pl. | 978-6371 The River Shack 7 S. Joachin St. | 441-7741 Skyview Lounge www.rosiesgrill.com Pirate’s Cove [Elberta] 6120 Marina Dr. S. The Blind Mule Atop the Lafayette Plaza 1203 U.S. 98|626-2440 www.piratescoveriffraff.com (under Dog River bridge) 57 N. Claiborne St. | 694-6853 301 Gov’t St.| 694-0100 Windmill Market [Fairhope] 6600 County Rd. 95| 987-1224 443-7318 Boo Radley’s Soul Kitchen www.windmillmarket.org Tacky Jacks www.booradleysmobile.com Tin Top www.soulkitchenmobile.com 85 N. Bancroft St. | 517-5444 www.tackyjacks.com 276 Dauphin St. | 432-1996 6232 Bon Secour Hwy. County 219 Dauphin St. |433-5958 [Orange Beach] The Bar Rd. 10 | 251-949-5086 Spot of Tea’s Jaggers [WESTMObILE] 27206 Safe Harbor Dr, |981-4144 352 St. Francis St. | 648-1596 Touch Down Tavern 310 Dauphin St. | 375-6772 All Sports Bar & Grill [Gulf Shores] The Brickyard 5460 Inn Rd | 662-7543 Studio 5’4 3408 Pleasant Valley Rd. 249 E. 24th Ave.| 948-8881 266 Dauphin St. | 473-4739 VFW Post 7320 [Saraland] 216 Dauphin St. | 725-0406 345-9338 [Gulf Shores] Buck’s Pizza 244 Old Telegraph Rd. |679-1188

T.P. Crockmiers Billiards Club 1577 Alabama 180|968-8341 LISTINGS | MUSIC www.buckspizza.com Whiskey Blues [Theodore] 250 Dauphin St. | 476-1890 4130 Gov’t Blvd.|447-2132 The Handlebar [Pensacola] 350 Dauphin St. | 431-9444 5791 Swedetown Rd.|633-1769 Veet’s Midnight Rodeo www.handlebarpensacola.com Cabo Cantina Zebra Lounge www.veetsbarandgrill.com 7790 Tanner Rd., Ste. B|639-2222 319 N. Tarragona St.| 434-9060 225 Dauphin St. | 441-7685 2343 Dauphin Island Pkwy. 66 S. Royal St.| 694-3090 Cockeyed Charlies The Wharf [Orange Beach] Callaghan’s Irish Social Club 6920 Airport Blvd.|725-1112 4985 Wharf Pkwy.| 224-1000 473-2997 www.callaghansirishsocialclub.com [MIDTOWN] Crooked Martini 916 Charleston St. | 433-9374 [CASINOS] Ashland Midtown Pub www.thecrookedmartini.com [AROUND AND AbOUT] AREA CLU b Dalhia’s Electric Piano Hall www.ashlandmidtownpub.com 7639 Cottage Hill Rd. #C |633-5555 Bill and Charlie’s [Theodore] Beau Rivage [Biloxi] 258 Dauphin St. | 378-5025 2453 Old Shell Rd.| 479-3278 Flashback Club 11470-B Bellingrath Rd.|973-0388 www.beaurivage.com Dauphin St. Blues Company Blues Tavern 10071 Airport Blvd.| 634-2239 Blue Gill Restaurant 878 Beach Blvd.|228-386-7111 & Draft Picks www.bluestavern.com Jag’s Sports Bar & Grill www.bluegillrestaurant.com or 888-595-2534 564 Dauphin St. | 725-6429 2818 Gov’t Blvd. |479-7621 5602 Old Shell Rd.| 725-1102 3775 Battleship Pkwy. |625-1998 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Firehouse Wine Bar Shop Butch Cassidy’s Cafe Lucky Irish Pub & Grill Bottoms Up [Biloxi] 216 St. Francis St. | 421-2022 www.butchcassidys.com 3692 Airport Blvd.| 414-3000 2605 Halls Mill Rd. | 287-7781 www.hardrockbiloxi.com Gabriel’s Downtown 60 N. Florida St. |450-0690 Mellow Mushroom Briar Patch 777 Beach Blvd. 55 S. Joachim St. | 432-4900 Kimberly’s Midtown Bar www.mellowmushroom.com 9371 Dauphin Island Pkwy. |228-374-ROCK (7625) The Garage 2660 Old Shell Rd. |478-1477 5660 Old Shell Rd. | 380-1500 973-1120 Harrah’s Hotel & Casino 9 S. Washington Ave. | 433-2223 Mellow Mushroom Moe’s Southwest Grill Burnout’s Bar & Grill [Saraland] [New Orleans] Grand Central www.mellowmushroom.com www.moes.com 7151 Hwy 158 W | 679-9255 www.harrahsneworleans.com grandcentralmobile.com 2032 Airport Blvd. |471-4700 280 McGregor Ave. S.| 342- 5233 Celtic Irish Pub [Pascagoula] 256 Dauphin St. | 432-6999 228 Poydras St.|504-533-6000 Royal Knight Restaurant Royal Knight 4901 Chicot St. | 228-938-6800 Hayley’s Downtown Grand Casino [Biloxi] 3004 Gov’t Blvd. |287-1220 3004 Gov’t Blvd.| 476-6044 Ed’s Seafood Shed 278 Dauphin St. | 433-4970 www.grandcasinobiloxi.com Silver Horse Pub Patches www.edsshed.com Joe Cain Café 280 Beach Blvd. 151 S. Florida St. |478-7030 5100 Girby Rd.| 661-8028 3382 Battleship Pkwy. | 625-1947 26 N. Royal St. | 338-2000 228-436-2946 Whistle Stop Bar & Grill Satori Coffee House Felix’s Fish Camp Liquid IP Casino Resort & Spa 110 S. Florida St.|478-7427 www.satori-coffee.com www.felixsfishcamp.com 661 Dauphin St. | 432-0109 [Biloxi] 5460 Old Shell Rd. | 344-4575 1530 Battleship Pkwy. |626-6710 Loda Bier Garten www.ipbiloxi.com [EASTERN SHORE] Runway Billards Midnight Rodeo 251 Dauphin St. | 287-6871 850 Bayview Ave. Bay House Pub [Daphne] 8000 Airport Blvd. | 634-8006 7790 Tanner Rd. |639-2222 Mobile Civic Center 800-436-3000 28850 Bayline Dr. | 626-0158 The Hungry Owl Mississippi Coast Coliseum www.mobilecivicctr.com Wind Creek Casino Club 44 [Daphne] 7899 Cottage Hill | 633-4479 [Biloxi] 401 Civic Center Dr. | 208-7261 www.windcreekcasino.com 28850 US 98, #100 | 445-8069 Stir Mobile www.mscoastcoliseum.com O’Daly’s Irish Pub 303 Poarch Rd., Atmore Gumbo Shack 5821 Old Shell Rd., Ste. D | 342-9995 2350 Beach Blvd. |228-594-3700 564 Dauphin St.|725-6429 866-946-3360 www.guysgumbo.com VFW Post 49 The End Zone Sports Bar OK Bicycle Shop 212 Fairhope Ave. | 928-4100 2528 Govt Blvd. | 471-9438 [Mt. Vernon] 19170 Hwy 43. 661 Dauphin St. |432-2453 McSharry’s [Fairhope] 829-9227The Oar House [NEW ORLEANS] Pat’s Downtown Grill www.mcsharrys.com [THE bEACH] [Dauphin Island] House of Blues 271 Dauphin St. | 438-9585 101N Brancroft St. |990-5100 Flora-Bama 1504 Bienville Blvd.| 861-4800 www.houseofblues.com Riverview Plaza (Fathoms Moe’s Original BBQ [Daphne] www.florabama.com Original Oyster House 225 Decatur St . Lounge) www.moesoriginalbbq.com 17401 Perdido Key Dr., www.theoysterhouse.com |504-310-4999 64 S. Water St.| 438-4000 6423 Bayfront Pk Dr.|625-7427 850-492-0611 3733 Battleship Pkwy. |626-2188 Howlin’ Wolf Royal Scam Old 27 Grill [Fairhope] The Hangout Pelican Pub & Restaurant www.thehowlinwolf.com/new- www.royalscammobile.com 19992 Hwy 181 | 281-2663 www.thehangoutal.com [Dauphin Island] orleans 72 S. Royal St.|432-SCAM (7226) Papa’s Pizza [Daphne] 101 Gulf Ct. | 948-3030 1102 DeSoto Ave.| 861-7180 907 S. Peters St. Royal Street Tavern www.papaspizza.com Live Bait Pelican Reef Restaurant 504-522-WOLF (9653) 26 N. Royal St. | 338-2000 28850 US Hwy 98| 626-7662 www.livebaitrestaurant.com 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Louisiana Superdome Saenger Theatre 24281 Perdido Beach Blvd. Plow [Fairhope] | 973-2670 www.superdome.com www.mobilesaenger.com 974-1612 96 Plantation Pointe| 410-7569 Tacky Jacks [Spanish Fort] 1500 Poydras St. |504-587-366 6 S. Joachim St. |208-5600 Lulu’s at Homeport Marina Courtyard 311 www.tackyjacks.com Tipitina’s Saddle Up Saloon www.lulubuffett.com 311 Fairhope Ave. | 928-2032 1175 Battleship Pkwy. |621-8988 501 Napoleon Ave. www.saddleupmobile.com 200 E. 25th Ave. 504-895-TIPS (8477) LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 35 RUNDOWN | MUSIC picker’s paradise to host intimate performance BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

icker’s Paradise is one of the best-kept musical secrets in the Stereo Dogs kick start fund- Mobile Bay area. Situated on State raising effort Highway 59 in Stapleton, the store Local musicians such as Lisa Mills and Phas managed to overcome the shadow of Eric Erdman have used the Kickstarter Mobile’s Guitar Center and remain a very website to collect funding for their musical popular guitar store, especially with locals. projects. Both were able to reap the benefits Picker’s Paradise is also known for hosting of this philanthropic website and finance guitar jams that bring together pickers of all their latest releases. Now, another Azalea walks for a session of spontaneous sounds. City band is turning to the same resource for This store gives local music junkies a chance help with their debut. to experience homegrown musicians in an Teen sensations Stereo Dogs have been environment that contrasts the bar scene. impressing local audiences with their musi- On Thursday, Feb. 26, Picker’s Paradise cal skills. Its 14 year-old members display will be hosting a very unique event by bring- talent beyond their age. Now, the band is ing flat-picker extraordinaire Jim Hurst for heading into the studio to lay down tracks a live demonstration. The iconic guitarist’s for a debut featuring both original material style takes lessons from legendary pick- and “select covers.” ers such as Jerry Reed and Chet Atkins but The young four-piece is asking the public Hurst is an accomplished solo bluegrass to assist them in the album’s creation by artist in his own right, sharing the stage with showing their financial support. In return, the artists such as Sara Evans, Trisha Yearwood and Travis Tritt. band will provide a variety of perks — from Hurst will begin his visit to Pickers Para- merchandise to a private concert — depend- dise with a “Master Class” workshop from ing on the monetary contribution. 6-8 p.m. The session will be a chance for The band has set a goal of $2,000, but local pickers to learn new techniques from they are encouraging the public to invest as one of the world’s premiere flat-pickers. The much money as possible. With each dollar fee for this workshop is $50, and there are earned over the goal, the band has a chance only 12 spots available. At 8:30 p.m., Hurst to provide a better quality album as well as a Photo/jimhurst.com will perform in the homespun environment. music video or two. Visit kickstarter.com for Tickets for the concert are only $10. more information. Flat picker Jim Hurst will hold a workshop and performance in Stapleton Feb. 26.

36 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 37 Take flight with The Write brothers BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected] Band: The Write Brothers Date: Sunday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. Venue: The Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Tickets: $25 for more info, call 251-232-3072 (reservations only)

he Write Brothers could be considered a songwriter supergroup. Comprised of some of NOLA’s best and brightest songwriters, the group combines the creative talent of four individuals with remarkably different backgrounds. Spencer Bohren spent a portion of his career playing with bands focusing on every- Tthing from rock to country. Bohren relocated to The Big Easy in the mid-‘70s. With more than 16 albums in his repertoire, he has stayed busy recently touring across the U.S. and Europe. Jim McCormick is one of modern country’s busiest songwriters. McCormick has penned songs for country notables including Jamey Johnson and Ronnie Milsap. His songs “Take a Little Ride” (Jason Aldean) and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do” (Brantley Gilbert) reached top spots on country music charts. Many may recognize Alex McMurray from his appearance on HBO’s “Treme.” The seasoned NOLA native has worked with musical projects ranging from 007 to Johnny Sansone. Paul Sanchez completes the lineup. In 2010, he won Songwriter of the Year in the “Best of the Beat” awards by OffBeat Magazine. Darius Rucker, Irma Thomas and the Eli Young Band have all employed his songwriting talents. Photo/provided by The Write Brothers | The Write Brothers

Drop the beat at Elements showcase Children’s choir are Ugandan Band: Elements: Monthly hip-hop showcase missionaries Date: Friday, Feb. 6, doors at 9 p.m. Venue: Soul Kitchen, 219 Dauphin St., www.soulkitchenmobile.com Band: Wototo Children’s Choir Tickets: $8 advance/$10 day-of through the Soul Kitchen website Date: Sunday, Feb. 8, 8:45 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. lements continues to bring the best in hip-hop talent from the Southeast and beyond. Mr. 88 is a Venue: Praise Family Church, 2605 Dawes Road, familiar face on the Elements stage. In fact, he has established quite a reputation in the Mobile Bay www.praisefamily.org area with his “catchy hooks and vibrant beats.” His verbal prowess has allowed 88 to enjoy regular Tickets: Free rotations of his tracks “So Many Girls” and “Gotta Do Better” on WBLX. The crowd will enjoy a Ebarrage of spontaneous rhythmic flow from this promising rapper. n 1994, the Wototo Child Care Ministry, Inc. began offering holistic care for the Local hip-hop superstar Beamin will be making an appearance at this installment of the monthly show- women and children of Uganda. Since its inception, the organization has offered case. One-half of the hip-hop duo Beamin & Timmy, the rapper’s lyrical talent is unique in the Azalea City. medical treatments, education (formal and vocational) and counseling with a He delivers word play that can instantly shift from smooth to light speed. spiritual edge. The Wototo Child Care Ministry also formed the Wototo Children’s Local up-and-comer Southern Bliss is also set to perform. An urban poet with an arsenal of life experience IChoir to serves “as advocates for the 18 million African children currently orphaned by to fuel his verbal creations, he has spent years honing his skills. Now, Bliss is eagerly showcasing his work AIDS.” whenever he can. The choir will begin a six-month U.S. tour in Tuscaloosa and make their way to Mo- DJ Elevate and DJ Ream will be on hand to spin tracks for this trio of hip-hop talent. bile Feb. 8. As the group travels the highways and byways of America, they will provide a “dynamic worship experience” at each stop. The choir will be regaling their audiences with their latest production, “Oh What Love.” Twenty songwriters penned compositions that highlight the life of an orphan and the love of God. “Oh What Love” should be a colorful and charismatic display of faith and worship from the other side of the globe.

Photo/watoto.com | Wototo Children’s Choir

Photo/ seemr88.com | Mr 88

38 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 J. Roddy Walston & The business carry on Hangout rock legacy

BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR | [email protected]

he Hangout Music Festival (May 15-17) has built a reputation for booking some of the best rock acts in the business. Bands such as The Sheepdogs, Kings of TLeon and Queens of the Stone Age have provided fiery sets for the festival’s sun-drenched masses. This year will be no different, with a slough of rockers ready to entertain beachside. J. Roddy Walston & The Business will be making their Hangout Fest debut after more than a decade of touring and performing. The four-piece of rock power has been expanding their reputation on the national scene as one of the most promis- ing bands on the road. Singer/pianist/guitarist Walston and his band have embraced classic rock sensibilities with their sound and if you want a hint, consider them the soulful love child of Led Zeppelin and Kings of Leon. In 2013, Walston and the band broke out on the national scene with their infectious single “Heavy Bells.” Last year, they entered the Top 10 on the U.S. Alt. Rock chart with “Take It As It Comes.” Curious rock fans can find these singles on their sixth studio release, “Essential Tremors.” True rock experiences are hard to find these days. When one does come across pure rock ‘n’ roll, it is always unforgettable. J. Roddy Walston & The Business will have no problem providing the ideal rock experience, and it will be undeni- able from the first riff. Photo/facebook.com/jroddywalston/ Tickets for Hangout Fest 2015 are on sale now through hangoutmusicfest.com. VIP and travel J. Roddy Walston, billy Gordon, Logan Davis and Steve Colmus have built a reputation as one of the most promising rock packages are also still available but going fast. bands ahead of their appearance at the 2015 Hangout Music Festival.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 39 THE REEL WORLD/MOVIE REVIEW | FILM Another charming chapter in Woody Allen’s European period BY ASIA FREY/FILM CRITIC | [email protected]

hen the divisive nature of, well, pretty much everything gets you down, and you don’t want to watch a movie and debate the issues in it, Wrest assured that the gentle tug of war between the seen and unseen world is all that is at stake in Woody Allen’s “Magic in the Moonlight.” Although perhaps the existence of an afterlife is actually one of the most important questions we could grapple with, it’s a relief to avoid 50,000 Huffington Post think pieces on a film. If American snipers are too rich for your blood, I recommend snooty British magicians instead. Like Allen’s delightful period romp “Mid- night in Paris,” this film is set in the 1920s, and the formula successfully distances these films Photos/imdb.com from Allen’s core New York films that starred him. Transitioning away from making the same Emma Stone and Colin Firth star in Woody Allen’s “Magic in the Moonlight.” film repeatedly, however good many of them were, was difficult when Allen still cast himself He is summoned to the South of France to do because life would be better if it were magical. in them. Then, in the early 2000s, a series of just that to alleged clairvoyant Sophie Baker In the end, Firth and Stone both play magi- Allen stand-ins starred, doing essentially Woody (Emma Stone) who is holding court and winning cians whose careers are built on a very will- Allen impressions, and those films weren’t so the affections of a fabulously wealthy family ing suspension of disbelief, and “Magic in the great, like that one with Jason Biggs and Chris- with a highly eligible son. Moonlight” requires that too. You won’t be up tina Ricci (“Anything Else.”) Firth brings texture and humor to his incred- all night pondering the questions asked by this Now we are in the lush European period ibly fusty character and Emma Stone is basically film; it is not a challenge, but a pleasure, to films phase of Allen’s career and it is nothing if charm incarnate, especially in her adorable watch. But maybe, like the family that Sophie not charming. Actually, it might not be anything 1920s frocks. Suspense is not exactly a key ele- Baker may or may not put in contact with their but charming. Colin Firth plays an intellectual ment of the story, as Firth struggles to maintain beloved father and husband, I wanted to believe and egomaniacal magician who, in addition his firmly reasonable view of life and death, in it. I wanted to like this movie, and the stars his extremely popular “Wie Ling Soo” act, is but openly wishes that Sophie was not a fake, were all too happy to oblige me. famous for mercilessly debunking fake psychics. NEW IN THEATERS NOW pLAyING

Photos/imdb.com Photo/imdb.com

JUpITER AScENDINg and little else to go on but her Black or White All listed multiplex Unbroken A destitute young woman (Mila own will, Cheryl sets out alone All listed multiplex theaters. Carmike Wharf 15 Kunis) gets targeted for assas- to hike the Pacific Crest Trail — theaters. Blackhat The Hobbit: The Battle sination by the Queen of the one of the country’s longest and The loft All listed Carmike Wharf 15 of the Five Armies Universe. All listed multiplex toughest through-trails. Crescent multiplex theaters. paddington Regal Mobile Stadium theaters. Theater. project Almanac All listed multiplex 18, Carmike Wynnsong “Pass the Light” A high school All listed multiplex theaters. 16 student is determined to run for “Seventh Son”Centers around theaters. The Wedding Ringer Annie Regal Mobile Congress in order to challenge a 14th-year-old Tom Ward, a sev- Mortdecai All listed multiplex Stadium 18, Carmike confrontational candidate. Car- enth son of a seventh son, and All listed multiplex theaters. Wynnsong 16 mike Wynnsong 14 his adventures as the apprentice theaters. Taken 3 All listed Night at the Museum: of the Spook. All listed multiplex Strange Magic multiplex theaters. Secret of the Tomb WIlD theaters. All listed multiplex Selma All listed multi- Regal Mobile Stadium “The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge theaters. plex theaters. 18, Eastern Shore Driven to the edge by the loss of Regal Mobile her beloved mother (Laura Dern), Out of Water” SpongeBob The Boy Next Door Birdman premiere Cinema 14 comes ashore for his most heroic All listed multiplex Stadium 18, Carmike The Hunger games: the dissolution of her marriage Wharf 15 and a headlong dive into self-de- adventure yet. All listed multiplex theaters. Mockingjay- part 1 theaters. The Imitation game “nto the Woods Regal Mobile Stadium 18 structive behavior, Cheryl Strayed Regal Mobile Stadium (Reese Witherspoon) makes a “Cake” Claire Simmons (Jennifer All listed multiplex The Theory of Aniston) suffers from chronic pain. theaters. 18, Carmike Wynnsong Everything decision to halt her downward 16, Eastern Shore pre- spiral and put her life back to- The suicide of a friend from her Foxcatcher Carmike Wharf 15 support group sends her reeling. Carmike Wharf 15 miere Cinema 14, Cobb Big Hero 6 Carmike gether again. With no outdoors pinnacle 14 experience, a heavy backpack Carmike Wharf 15 American Sniper Wynnsong 16

cARMIkE cINEMA’S HOllyWOOD STADIUM 18 cARMIkE cINEMAS EASTERN SHORE pREMIERE Wynnsong 16 1250 Satchel paige Dr. 23151 Wharf Ln. cINEMA 14 785 Schillinger Rd. S. (251) 473-9655 Orange beach (251) 981-4444 30500 Alabama 181 #500 (251) 639-7373 Spanish Fort, Al RAvE MOTION pIcTURE cOBB THEATRES pINNAclE 14 (251) 626-0352 cREScENT THEATER JUBIlEE SqUARE 12 3780 Gulf Shores pkwy Gulf 208 Dauphin Street 6898 U.S. 90 Daphne, Shores Information accurate at press time; please

AREA THEATERS (251) 438-2005 (251) 626- 6266 (251) 968-7444 call theaters for showtimes.

40 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 41 MEDIA FRENZY | MEDIA press-Register barred from taking legal ads BY ROB HOLBERT/MANAGING EDITOR | [email protected]

he Press-Register continues to dominate media news this week, with still more fallout from last week’s staff shake- up, a renamed advertising circular and the Mobile County Probate Court taking away the paper’s ability to print their Tlegal advertisements. Probate Court Judge Don Davis announced on his website Feb. 2 that the P-R would no longer be able to handle legal notices associated with his court due to what Davis says are repeated in- stances of improperly handling the ads and billing. The P-R is one of three publications in Mobile County allowed by law to handle legal advertisements — the others being the Citronelle Call News and the Mobile Beacon. By law newspapers that can run such ads must be “newspapers of general circulation,” a designation that includes a stipulation the newspapers have publications class postal permits. This rule precludes such fine newspapers as the one you’re reading from being able to accept legal advertising because in order to get the proper postal permit at least half of our circulation would have to be paid. In the interest of full disclosure, Lagniappe is currently en- Photo/Lagniappe gaged in an effort to try to get that regulation amended to take out the postal permit requirement, as we see zero effect such a permit Those used to the bargain Finder being tossed in their yards each week may notice its name has been has on the quality of a newspaper or its ability to properly inform changed to Gulf Coast Life. its readership. In cities affected by the Newhouse Corporation’s instances where the compliance affidavit described above has not While the leadership at Alabama Media Group has refused any decision to cut back on its newspapers’ print schedules, there ex- been promptly sent to the Court by the Press-Register.” comment on the statewide layoffs, insiders have offered some idea ists a situation in which, should the company decide to completely The announcement goes on to encourage lawyers who have as to at least a bit of the reorganization. According to multiple do away with the printed paper, there might be no good alternative published legal ads in the Press-Register to verify it was done so insiders, Jessica Sawyer has been named the news manager for the for placing such advertising. properly. AMG’s Mobile hub, which places her in charge of all reporters. The Call News has indeed seen a good increase in legal adver- Efforts to get comment on the situation from the Press-Register’s Those sources say Sawyer was a news clerk for a couple of years tising over the past year or two, even though its primary distribu- corporate operator, Alabama Media Group, were unsuccessful. in Baldwin County before coming to the Mobile office and had tion is outside Mobile. The Beacon, as far as we can tell, has not Davis’ website also mentions several problems regarding worked for Jackie Byrd, who was fired last week. published legal ads recently at least. billing over the past 10 months, saying a “flat” fee that had been No word on much else about Sawyer’s background. For probate court advertising, that situation is closer to becom- negotiated some time ago was being ignored in favor of billing ing a reality. Most such advertising has to deal with the com- that cost more and caused confusion. mencement of someone’s estate upon his/her death. Notice must “The billing issues continue, even when telephone calls and New name, same mess be published, and it is up to the probate judge to ensure it has And it appears the advertising circular that used to be known as email messages are addressed by the Press-Register’s staff,” the Bargain Finder has had its name changed to Gulf Coast Life. properly been done. announcement read. As usual, when asked for comment about what’s up with the “During the past 10 months the Court’s staff has encountered Davis explained the issues were enough that he felt he needed change, the honchos at Alabama Media Group were quiet as ongoing, significant problems with Alabama Media Group’s Press- to bar creditor notices from being published in the Press-Register. church mice. Whether the change has anything to do with Mayor Register. Despite repetitive communications (initiated by the “Due to the failure and/or refusal of the Press-Register to ad- Sandy Stimpson identifying Bargain Finder and the Yes circular as Court’s staff), these problems continue. We currently have 13 dress the aforesaid matters, I feel compelled to end the practice two of the city’s main sources of litter is just a guess. But seeing documented instances where the Press-Register failed to publish of legal notices as described herein being published in the Press- as AMG has fallen back on the First Amendment as its defense for notices of the commencement of decedent’s estate cases after Register. This action is regrettable but apparently necessary. The continuing to throw thousands and thousands of these wet sacks request by the Court and tender of payment. In these 13 cases, the Court’s staff resources are limited and the Court’s staff can not be of ads in yards, driveways and vacant lots across town that may be checks and publication notice were sent to the Press-Register in expected to continue to wrestle with the above described prob- the reason they gave it a name that sounds more like a publication. July 2014 and it was first realized in November 2014 that there lem matters, when there is seemingly no concerted effort on the had been no creditor notice published. The Court’s staff has part of the Press-Register to address and solve the problems once On just a quick walk around the neighborhood the other day, checked with the lawyers in these cases and confirmed that the and for all,” he said in the notice. two of the GCLs had broken open and their contents had blown all lawyers’ checks have not been paid by their bank,” an announce- down Dauphin Street. ment on the Mobile County Probate Court website reads. Personally I think it’s time those of us who are tired of hav- “In two other cases, legal notices to creditors were mailed to Editorial leadership ing these things thrown in our yards to gather them up and have a News continues to leak out of the new offices at the corner of the Press-Register by the Court in the Fall of 2014 but were just “Throwback Thursday.” If they’re not litter when they’re thrown in Royal and Dauphin Streets concerning who is running the show published this month. Surprisingly, one of these publication no- our yards without request, then how can they be litter when they’re at the Press-Register after last week’s abrupt layoff of seven em- tices was sent in the same envelope and with the same cover letter tossed in front of the Press-Register’s office at Dauphin and Royal? ployees, including Randy Kennedy, who was overseeing editorial as a notice that was timely published. We have also encountered It’s time to exercise our First Amendment rights Mobile. duties for the paper.

42 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 THE LOADED QUESTION What is your favorite and least favorite Mardi Gras throw? Asked Downtown

LEAST: peanuts and beads when it is super cold FAVORITE: chocolate moonpies

-Katie, store director of Urban Emporium

LEAST: stale or old throws FAVORITE: moonpies

- Don, manager of Three Georges

LEAST: banana moonpies FAVORITE: black beads because they are rare

-Hunter, bartender at Brickyard

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 43 DOWN 25. Drive or reverse, e.g. CROSSWORD PUZZLE26. Circus props ACROSS 1. Shock absorber 4. Pucker 8. Some stay at home 12. Bad thing to invoke 13. Unbending 14. Frenziedly 15. Ad conclusion? 16. Apple food? 17. Subcompact 18. Bay tree 20. Delivery means 22. Salts on deck 23. Naval rank 27. Bygone leaders 29. Be snoopy 30. Big one 31. Fine-tune 32. Purchase 33. It’s often swatted 34. Symbol of industrious- ness 35. Camera movement 36. Opportunities, so to speak 37. Shortened, as a sail 39. Does and bucks 1. Just what the doctor 27. Scorch 40. Disdained ordered, maybe 28. Court defense newspaper 2. Callas specialty 29. Wit’s end? 41. More than touched 3. New member of 32. Wisconsin footballers 44. View from a hill society 33. Takes one’s leave 47. Archer of myth 4. Contract addenda 35. Shade of green 49. Cake recipe word 5. Russian range 36. Harder to penetrate 50. Blood-bank measure 6. Foldaway, perhaps 38. Worries 51. Like some 7. Dishonorable doings 39. Part of L.E.D. awakenings 8. Curses 42. Not yet final, at law 52. Wear and tear 9. “What Kind of Fool 43. Old flames 53. Casino calculations ___?” 44. Double header? 54. Nostradamus, reput- 10. Slip on 45. What’s more edly 11. Hit the slopes 46. It may get flipped 55. Acapulco 19. Like hen’s teeth 48. Wish undone affirmatives 21. “___ takers?” 24. Ding-a-ling Answers on page 49

44 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 UPON FURTHER REVIEW | SPORTS McCormick’s success story continues down under BY J. MARK BRYANT/SPORTS WRITER | [email protected]

ne of the University of Mobile’s most celebrated athletes Finishing at No. 5 for the best will soon continue her career on the professional level. golf experience was the Grand Hotel Deonica McCormick has signed to play in Australia’s State Marriott Resort in Point Clear. The Basketball League. Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort O“This opportunity is truly a blessing,” said McCormick, who in Hoover topped the poll, followed will head to the land down under on Feb. 23. “My family and I at No. 2 by Auburn Marriott Opelika have been through a lot, and it took a lot for us to get here. Hotel at Grand National and at No. 4 by “One thing I can say is, I never gave up. Dropping out of high Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel at school was one of my biggest mistakes, but I told myself right Capitol Hill. after that, that I would go back to get my GED and get my college “Having four of the top five Marriott degree.” or Renaissance hotels in North America McCormick kept her promise, and will graduate in May with a is remarkable, and the result of a great degree in business management. team of hard workers,” said John Can- The Biloxi native had a record-breaking year for the Lady non, president of Alabama’s RTJ Golf Rams in 2013-2014. She averaged 21.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.6 Trail. The idea of the courses came assists and 2.3 steals, while setting numerous school marks. The from Dr. David Bronner, CEO of the 5-foot-8 guard helped UM win the Southern States Athletic Con- Retirement Systems of Alabama, who ference tournament title and a berth in the NAIA national playoffs. wanted to bring visitors and investors to As a result of her performance, McCormick earned first-team Alabama while making the state a better NAIA All-America honors. She was named the SSAC’s Player of place to live. the Year and the Alabama Sports Writers Association’s Small Col- “Twenty three years ago before the lege Athlete of the Year. RTJ Golf Trail opened, people would Photo/University of Mobile “The things she did her senior year are what got here where she have laughed that Marriott’s top golf is now,” said UM coach Billy Evans. “They (the SBL) wanted a experiences were found in Alabama,” Deonica McCormick, a high school dropout who earned her GED and leader and it’s a great opportunity for her, using her talents to go Cannon said. “Now it is a proven fact, will graduate from UM in May, will play professionally in Australia. see the world.” based on independent surveys conducted for Marriott International.” State parks say thanks The entire RTJ Golf Trail has 26 courses at 11 sites across Anglers to gather in Fairhope Free camping will be offered in Alabama State Parks during Alabama. Among those is Magnolia Grove, which offers 54 holes The Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar Series is coming Customer Appreciation Days from Feb. 8-12. During this time, in west Mobile. to Point Clear this Saturday. The event, one of only eight taking campers can stay for up to five nights based upon the availability place across America, is set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grand Hotel of campsites. Loopers love Mobile Bay Marriott Resort. The free camping applies to both improved and primitive sites, An earlier feature in Upon Further Review discussed boaters This marks the 28th year for this popular educational seminar but is not available to extended-stay campers. Also being offered who travel The Great Loop. The journey follows the East Coast, on recreational marine fishing tactics and techniques. The seminar is 50 percent off regular seasonal rates for lodging at parks with advances to the Great Lakes, travels south along many rivers and will offer fishing instruction from leading national and local hotels and cabins. finally arrives in Mobile Bay. A turn toward Florida starts the angling authorities, including George Poveromo, host of World of “In recent years, our visitors and partners have continued to course once again. Saltwater Fishing on NBC Sports. show their support for Alabama State Parks during tough financial Among the couples interviewed at the Dog River Marina was The entry fee is $55. This includes one-year subscription of times,” said Greg Lein, state parks director. “These Customer a pair of from Castine, Maine, named Karen and Jeffrey Siegel. Salt Water Sportsman magazine. For additional information, visit Appreciation Days are intended as a show of gratitude to everyone Along with their dogs, their travel aboard their 53-foot trawler “A www.nationalseminarseries.com or call 800-448-7360. who enjoys the state’s park system.” Cappella” and produce a boating website called “Active Captain.” This event applies to all 22 state parks, including Gulf State As this was their first trip on The Great Loop, they mounted a Rams ranked in preseason poll Park. To take advantage of the deal, contact the individual parks GoPro camera on the bridge and shot high-definition, time-lapse The men’s tennis team at the University of Mobile is ranked to make reservations. For more details, visit www.alapark.com, or video through their travel days. Of interest to local boaters will be No. 21 in the NAIA Coaches Preseason Poll. The Rams are one of call 800-ALA-PARK (252-7275). The direct number to the Gulf their journey along the Alabama Gulf Coast, which can be found five Southern States Athletic Conference teams in the rankings. State Park is 251-948-7275. on YouTube by searching “Great Loop Videos with ActiveCap- UMobile advanced to the NAIA national tournament for the tain.” The highlights include videos “T78 — Dog River to The seventh straight time last season. The Rams return all but one Wharf,” “T79 — The Wharf to Orange Beach,” and “T80 — Or- player who saw action in more than one match, including Honor- RTJ Golf Trail gains honors ange Beach to Santa Rosa.” able Mention All-American Marcio Dal Pont and second-team Marriott and Renaissance hotels in North America conducted a The automatic timer took images every 5 seconds. Their typi- All-Conference selection Karlis Stonis. guest satisfaction survey during 2014 to rank their top golf loca- cal 40-mile day would take about 3 minutes of video. It gives the The UMobile men and women opened their season last week tions. Four of the top five sites turned out to be part of Alabama’s feeling of making the trip on a racing boat, especially down the with wins over Loyola University. The Rams and Lady Rams will Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Intracoastal Waterway. return to action on Saturday by hosting Mississippi College at 2 p.m.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 45 C O E JOIE DE VIVRE “JOy OF LIFE” MARDI GRAS BALL WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 7 WHERE: Alabama Cruise Terminal The 2nd annual Wind Creek Hospitality “Joy of Life” Mardi Gras Ball benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will take place Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Alabama Cruise Terminal. With more than 500 guests expected, the ball will showcase the culinary skills of several local chefs and restaurants. The Mardi Gras Ball King and Queen will be Gulf Coast St. Jude patients Cru Turnbow, 14 and Emily Graves, 8. The emcees for the evening will be Manning’s Food For Less General Manager Kamal (KC) Constantine along with Shelby Mitchell from the 95KSJ. Live entertainment will be provided by The Molly Ringwalds. The event is from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m. and attire is white tie. For more information, please visit www.stjudegulfcoast.org or www.facebook.com/StJudeGulfCoast. Photo/Courtesy St. Jude Gulf Coast

February 5 Join MMOA each week to experience cohost. Courses for the seminar will focus their presentations they will participate in Discover The Nina and Pinta the museum in new and exciting ways on red drum, speckled trout, flounder, a panel discussion. The forum will begin The Nina and Pinta, replicas of Columbus’ throughout the year. No reservations are cobia, tarpon, fishing passes, wrecks and at 1 p.m. at Homestead Village Ballroom, ships will open in Gulf Shores Feb. necessary. artificial reefs, kite fishing, groupers and Fairhope. There is a suggested donation 5. The ships will be docked at Lulu’s snappers, blackfin and yellowfin tunas, of $5. For more information contact Mike Homeport Marina, 200 E. 25th Ave. until February 6 cutting edge trolling tactics for wahoo, at 251-504-1173. their departure Feb. 9. While in port, the First Friday Art Walk dolphin and tunas, offshore live baiting, public is invited to visit and tour the ships. The Eastern Shore Art Center returns with catching daytime swordfish in the Gulf of Mystic Mutts of Revelry The price is $8 for adults, $7 for senior new art and music. Come check out the Mexico, how to find and fish nearshore Fairhope’s only walking parade, the Mystic citizens and $6 for students. The ships new exhibits, live pottery demonstrations and offshore surface temperature breaks, Mutts of Revelry, features a theme of will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more while enjoying refreshments and live and much more. Tickets are $55. For more “Superheroes to the Rescue.” Registration information visit thenina.com. entertainment by Chris Clifton. The art information call 1-800-448-7360, or visit for walkers and their dogs starts at 10:30 walk begins at 6 p.m. at the Eastern Shore www.nationalseminarseries.com. a.m. at the Fairhoper’s Community Park Those Colorful Containers Art Center, 401 Oak St. Fairhope. For more and the parade begins at 1 p.m. with Join Mobile County Master Gardener information contact Adrienne at 251-928- District 6 beautification project a new route around the Faulkner State and Paula Pettis, owner of Prissy 2228 ext. 103. Councilmember Bess Rich and College campus and back to the park. Pots Landscaping, as she teaches residents of District 6 are sponsoring a It benefits The Haven, Fairhope’s no- you of her unique plant combinations, Ark of India beautification project to plant trees on kill shelter. For information on taking 11, 2015 5, 2015 -F EBRUARY EVENTS | F EBRUARY often presented in out-of-the-ordinary “Ark of India: An Alabama Artist Explores the medians at the intersection of Airport part or being a parade sponsor, visit containers. The class starts at 9:30 a.m. at Southern Asia” is an exhibit about Boulevard and Hillcrest Road on Saturday, havenforanimals.org.

OF Jon Archer Center, 1070 Schillinger Road, personal discovery and exploration. It 8 a.m. to noon. Keep Mobile Beautiful N. Mobile. This event is free and open to is an account of late 19th and early and Alabama Power Community Service Joie de Vivre “Joy of Life” Mardi Gras the public. 20th century India as seen by Alabama Group are also joining in the efforts. For Ball artist Roderick D. MacKenzie, using his more information call 251-208-7441. The 2nd annual Wind Creek Hospitality Government Street Forum paintings, drawings, sculptures and most “Joy of Life” Mardi Gras Ball benefiting Join the Government Street Presbyterian importantly, photographs and writings. MCMA: Building Benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Church for lunch and a speaker every The exhibition is organized by the History Join Mobile County Music Association as will take place Saturday, Feb. 7, at the

ALENDAR Thursday through March 26. The speaker Museum of Mobile at 111 S. Royal St. and they spotlight Charles “Bo” Grant, formerly Alabama Cruise Terminal. With more this week will be Joel Erdmann, athletic is on view until Sept. 1, 2015. Admission of “The Platters.” Bo will perform 1-2 than 500 guests expected, the ball will C director, University of South Alabama. The is free. p.m. The MCMA staff band will perform showcase the culinary skills of several lunch and forum is held in the church’s 10:30 a.m. to noon. Lunch will be served local chefs and restaurants. The Mardi Fellowship Hall at the Jackson Street February 7 at noon, $5 donation is asked. Open mic Gras Ball King and Queen will be Gulf entrance on Government and Jackson Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar will begin at 2 p.m. The lunch is going to Coast St. Jude patients Cru Turnbow, 14 streets. Lunch is served at noon and Series be held at MCMA Concert Hall, 310 S. and Emily Graves, 8. The emcees for the costs $10, which includes tea, coffee and The Salt Water Sportsman National Craft Highway in Chickasaw. For more evening will be Manning’s Food For Less dessert. There is no charge to attend the Seminar Series will bring its Gulf of information visit mobilecountrymusic.com. General Manager Kamal (KC) Constantine forum. For information, call the church Mexico presentation to Fairhope, on along with Shelby Mitchell from the office at 251-432-1749. Saturday, Feb. 7. The 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local food producers forum 95KSJ. Live entertainment will be provided presentation will be held inside the The national local food production by The Molly Ringwalds. The event is from Thursdays at the Museum Grand Ballroom of the Grand Hotel movement is alive, well, and growing 7 p.m. until 2 a.m. and attire is white tie. Every Thursday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. Marriott Resort (1 Grand Blvd., Point here in Baldwin County. Come listen For more information, please visit www. the Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Clear). George Poveromo will headline and learn from those who are making it stjudegulfcoast.org or www.facebook. Drive, offers free admission to all visitors. the program, along with Dave Lear as happen. After the speakers have made com/StJudeGulfCoast.

46 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 Dance Magic Inc. Gulf Coast Dance 18301 Pennsylvania St., Robertsdale. This Challenge program is designed to match high school MARDI GRAS 2015 Our Mobile Regional dance competition is age students with strong technological in its 13th year and we are more excited skills with adults and seniors who are than ever to host our regional event once unfamiliar with basic laptop computer SCHEDULE again at the Mobile Civic Center Theatre. technology. The program is available Please join us for our one-day event and Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. the ultimate dance competition experience to 4:30 p.m. and is free of charge. An 11 a.m. - Foley parade (Foley) with premier judging. The challenge starts appointment is required and can be made THURSDAy, FEB. 5 11 a.m. - Krewe of Kids (Krewe of Goats at 9:30 a.m. For more information visit by calling the library at 251-970-4010. 6:30 p.m. - Order of Polka Dots Prichard route) dancemagic.net or call 228-437-6251. (Mobile, Route A) Noon - Floral Parade, Knights of Mobile, February 10 Mobile Cadets, Mobile Mystical Ladies, Secular Morality for the Modern Age Find It Local Expo FRIDAy, FEB. 6 Order of Angels (Mobile, Route A) Adam Lee will deliver “Secular Morality South Baldwin Chamber will be bringing 6:30 p.m. - Order of Inca Noon - Krewe of Goats Parade (Prichard) for the Modern Age” at the University of several local business to one convenient (Mobile, Route A) Noon - Mystic Revelers (Bay Minette) South Alabama, Humanities Auditorium, location; the Foley Civic Center! The 6:45 p.m. - Apollo’s Mystic Ladies 2 p.m. - Krewe of Mullet Mates Room 170. Adam Lee advances the community is invited to join us for (Daphne) (Mullet Point) humanist philosophy through his book refreshments, samples and door prizes 5:30 p.m. - Mystics of Pleasure and blog, titled “Daylight Atheism,” which from 5-7 p.m. For locals looking to support (Orange Beach) supports the secular viewpoint by arguing local businesses, this is a great opportunity SATURDAy, FEB. 7 10 a.m. - Hickory Ridge Kids Krewe (kids) 6 p.m. - Mystics of Time (Mobile, Route A) a non-religious view offers a liberating to see many of the unique businesses our (Timberly Circle) 6:45 p.m. - Shadow Barons (Daphne) opportunity to live a moral, joyful, and area features. Located in the heart of Foley 2 p.m. - Mobile Mystics, Mobile Mystical purposeful life. The talk will begin at 6 p.m. at 112 W. Laurel Avenue, the Foley Civic Revelers (Mobile, Route A) For more information visit www.facebook. Center will be buzzing with fun for the SUNDAy, FEB. 15 6:30 p.m. - Maids of Mirth, Butterfly com/groups/usaphilosophers/. entire family. Questions, call 251-943-3291. (JOE cAIN DAy) Maidens, Krewe of Marry Mates 2:29 p.m. - Loyal Order of the Firetruck (Mobile, Route A) February 8 Tea for Two (Daphne) 6:45 p.m. - Knights of Ecor Rouge Open Studio The Fairhope Museum of History will host 2:30 p.m. - Joe Cain Procession (Fairhope) Come enjoy complimentary mimosas “Tea for Two” at 2 p.m. The speaker will (Mobile, Route A) as artists work at the Cathedral Square be Police Chief Joseph H. Petties. Each 5 p.m. - Le Krewe de Bienville Gallery, 612 Dauphin St. There will also Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m., the Museum SUNDAy, FEB. 8 (Mobile, Route A) be works by more than 60 area artists on hosts guests to enjoy a cup of delicious 2 p.m. - Mystics of Children display. For more information call 251-694- Baldwin County tea, cookies and a lecture (Rosswood Drive) MONDAy, FEB. 16 0278. on an interesting aspect of Fairhope 6:30 p.m. - Neptune’s Daughters, OOI (Mobile, Route A) (lUNDI gRAS) history. These very popular afternoon Noon - King Felix III, Floral parade February 9 events are sponsored by the Friends of the (Mobile, Route A) Joe Jefferson Playhouse: Musical Museum group. For more information on MONDAy, FEB. 9 1 p.m. - Prichard Mardi Gras Association Comedy the upcoming “Tea for Two” programs, call 6:30 p.m. - Order of Venus Parade (Prichard) The Joe Jefferson Playhouse invites the Fairhope Museum of History at 929- (Mobile, Route A) 3 p.m. - MLK Business and Civic everyone to enjoy a musical comedy and 1471. Organization, MLK Monday Mystics, variety show, “On the Road Again with TUESDAy, FEB. 10 Northside Merchants (Mobile, Route D) Willie Nelson and Other Outlaws.” The February 11 6:30 p.m. - Order of LaShe’s 6:45 p.m. - Order of Mystic Magnolias 90-minute concert stars Keith Allynn, aka South Baldwin Chamber Leadership (Mobile, Route A) (Fairhope) “Not Really Willie,” a versatile entertainer Series 7 p.m. - Infant Mystics, Order of Doves who performs more than 50 singing The Leadership Series was established to THURSDAy, FEB. 12 (Mobile, Route F) characters. Audiences are encouraged get relevant information and speakers to 1 p.m. - Order of Impalas (kids) to sing along with their favorites. “On the bring timely information to local businesses (St. Ignatius Catholic School) TUESDAy, FEB. 1 Road Again,” a fundraiser for the Joe and the community. This week’s speaker 6:30 p.m. - Mystic Stripers Society Jefferson Playhouse, is at 7:30 p.m. All will be Eliska Morgan, director of the (Mobile, Route A) (FAT TUESDAy) tickets are $20 and will only be sold at Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council. 10 a.m. - Gulf Shores Mardi Gras the door. Cash, checks and credit cards Morgan will cover an overview of the oil Association (Gulf Shores) accepted. The Playhouse is at 11 S. Carlen spill funding efforts. Doors and buffet open FRIDAy, FEB. 13 10:30 a.m. - Order of Athena 6:30 p.m. - Crewe of Columbus (Mobile, St., just off of Dauphin Street. For more at 11:30 a.m., Program begins at noon. (Mobile, Route A) Route A) information call 251-533-2627. Tickets are $15 and no tickets will be 12:30 p.m. - Knights of Revelry, King Felix sold at the door. Tickets are available at 6:30 p.m. - Mystical Order of Mirams III, Comic Cowboys(Mobile, Route A) (Orange Beach) Teen Tech Tutor Program mylocalchamber.net, by calling 943-3291. 2 p.m. - Orange Beach Parade 6:45 p.m. - Maids of Jubilee (Fairhope) The Baldwin County Library Cooperative All Leadership Series events will take place (Orange Beach) (BCLC) recently implemented a Teen Tech in the Foley Civic Center, located at 407 E. 2 p.m. - MAMGA Mammoth Parade Tutor program at the Robertsdale Library, Laurel Ave. SATURDAy, FEB. 14 (Mobile, Route B) (vAlENTINE’S DAy) 6 p.m. - Order of Myths (Mobile, Route C)

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 47 STYLE Mobilian’s new website encourages competitive giving BY CHELSEA WALLACE/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ompetition breeds many things: deadline that could encourage a higher level In fact, his time as a combat medic com- excellence, perseverance, and in the of competitiveness. bined with his history in biological medicine case of a new fundraising website, So, how does scoring work? With many first planted the seeds in his mind to create real-world change. varying team and competition sizes, creat- the site. CIn December 2014, Mobilian Dustin ing one uniform formula fair to everyone “I frequently found myself providing Chalker launched Who Gives More, a chari- proved impossible. Instead, three formulas care to patients, and people idolize those table website that turns giving into a game. have been drafted, and site moderators can who do that. And I’m just thinking, I did By forming groups based on anything from enact any one to best suit each individual the procedure, but there’s some guy in a lab occupation, city or even favorite sports team, competition. somewhere who came up with this stuff, members can donate to charities and rack up One of the site’s primary objectives is who figured out what worked. The creation points in a global money-raising competition. to target charities with the farthest reach of the procedure seems to have more of Chalker first envisioned the competition- and highest levels of productive giving. an impact than using the procedure, which based model in response to several problems By looking at humanitarian impact, fiscal got me interested in research. Then I got to he noticed in today’s charity landscape. responsibility and effective uses of funds, thinking, ‘What’ It’s “Charitable giving has been stuck at 2 Who Gives More offers members a list of funding. It’s paying for that research, and percent GDP for decades, and nothing new recommended charities currently including that’s something I’m hoping to do with this has brought anything to the table to get it the American Red Cross, Children’s Miracle platform,” Chalker explained. above that line,” Chalker said. Network, UNICEF and Feeding America. Now that the site has passed its one- The site’s mission statement expands on However, participants can choose to donate month anniversary, Chalker reflects on his that problem, adding, “less than half of that to any of the 1.5 million registered 501(c)3 aspirations for the site, including approach- money goes to the high-impact humanitar- charities. ing specific college societies here in Mobile ian causes that feed children, give medicine, “Some charities are a thousand times and official sports leagues like the NBA, create cures, relieve poverty and assist more effective at saving people, dollar per NFL and MLB. victims of natural disasters.” dollar, and that’s not hyperbole. That’s literal “We have a lock on this, and we are the The funding gap, combined with inher- math. We want to help steer people toward only ones in the world doing this,” Chalker ent divisions that make people naturally really effective types of giving, to choose said. competitive, inspired Chalker to use the charities that have a high impact. We really “We’ve got to build a base, and I’m existing model’s imperfections as a driver want to solve all these problems at once,” starting here in Mobile with getting people for change. Chalker explained. in my hometown signed up, getting them “It’s hard to get people of different In the spirit of effective use of funds, invested, and from there we can expand to backgrounds together and working together Who Gives More holds itself to the same other areas.” for the common good. But if we can get standards as any other charity. And, ultimately, Who Gives More allows everyone to come together in a competition “We’re running on five percent or less. competitors to give to trusted organiza- and keep it in the spirit of goodwill, we take Whatever profits the company brings in tions in a fun, meaningful way. By going up these divisions and use them to our advan- will be reinvested in fundraising for these against coworkers, friends or family mem- tage, use them to solve a problem,” he said. different charities as a dedicated fundrais- bers in a spirit of giving and benevolence, After joining Who Gives More, members ing entity. We can continue to fundraise in a Chalker hopes the platform will provide have their pick of large, ideological teams to more effective way than some of the groups enough incentive to raise that national giv- choose from, ranging from Greek societies are doing,” Chalker said. ing statistic. and faith-based groups to political affilia- Though he may be the man behind the The website’s mission states, “We believe tions and Armed Forces service branches. curtain, Chalker contributes to the competi- in rewarding donors with public recognition, Members can pick one team or many, and tions, as well. He shared that his family’s both individually and as a team. We want any points from donations are counted favorite charitable recipient is Doctors With- to create the world’s largest showcase of toward the scores of all teams. out Borders, stemming from the nine years humankind’s best qualities by giving every While the main competition is ongoing he spent as a combat medic. person a permanent lifelong record of their and untimed, smaller contests can be created “I’ve seen the need for healthcare in areas charitable achievements.” to suit individual group needs. Future plans that are war torn and impoverished. These WhoGivesMore accepts resumes for include introducing timed contests, such guys go in unarmed and provide care where volunteer positions behind the screen. To as 60-day competitions, which only count it’s needed most, and they take a huge risk volunteer or jump into the competition, visit donations for a limited time and offers a doing it,” he said. WhoGivesMore.com.

48 | LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 PORT CITY PREMONITIONS | STYLE pisces’ entrepreneurship thwarted once again BY DR. ZODIAC/ASTROLOGY GUY | [email protected] Aquarius (1/20 - 2/18) — Excited about the Leo (7/23 - 8/23) — You’ve spent far too prospect of reading Harper Lee’s first new novel much time over the past few days running and since “To Kill A Mockingbird,” you are perplexed rerunning Pete Carroll’s disastrous final call in the to discover it is actually labeled in the Young Super Bowl — to the point where you’ve been Adult genre. Receiving an advance copy, you are running mock plays in your living room using a delighted that the 88-year-old recluse can still pen recliner as Marshawn Lynch to score the winning a page-turner, not about crime and justice in a touchdown. Settle down. Let’s be honest, these racially divided America, but about an awkward are two teams and two coaches no one likes any- teenager named Carla spurned by her first true way, so move on. Get back to reenacting the JFK love, Brad. You sigh longingly as the protagonist assassination in your living room with that same resolves her conflicts with the assistance of an recliner as Lee Harvey Oswald. A trip to an Asian unlikely narrator. Feeling free, you break out your buffet causes you to question your taste. Your stone-washed denim. lucky number is 3.14.

Pisces (2/19 - 3/20) — Disappointed that a Virgo (8/24 - 9/22) — Your parents are out widely-known maker of overpriced coolers stole of town, and even though you’re old enough that your million-dollar idea to market a $30 koozie wrinkle cream commercials interest you, it’s still to the lucrative white, professional, former frat a great time to sneak back in and live it up in their brother demographic, you steer all your research place. Drink their booze and replace it with water. and development dollars toward a new endeavor. Get freaky in every room in the house, but take It’s a line of electronic filet knives, specific to photos ahead of time so you can put things back the species, that simultaneously skins and sears in place. Your dad notices everything. One of the the flesh, providing the freshest form of dining, Press-Register’s bags of ads blows all over your right off the boat. But after chefs in a test kitchen yard next week prompting you to buy a Nerf gun report horrible injuries, you receive a cease and to shoot at the delivery guy the following week. desist order from the Federal Trade Commission. Perhaps a bit extreme. Six months later, Yeti releases its newest product: Slice & Sear ®. Retail price? $600. Libra (9/23 - 10/22) — You’re going to have serious insomnia in the coming week, so figure Aries (3/21 - 4/19) — Learning all about the out something to do other than just staring at the quirky world of cosplay, you decide to get into the ceiling. It might be a good week to start read- act by reviving a random cartoon character from ing something really long and boring. “War and your past. But you receive a cold reception when Peace” comes to mind. Spoiler: there’s war, then you assume the identity of Ma Beagle, matriarch peace. Your best bet is to stock up on NyQuil. A of the Beagle Boys, nemesis of Scrooge McDuck neighbor has been driving you crazy by playing and his nephews from the short-lived Saturday ‘80s music too loud. Get even by pouring glitter morning animated series DuckTales. You didn’t all over his doorstep and letting him track it into intend to ruffle any feathers, but things will end the house and into his car. Good times. Avoid CROSSWORD pUZZLE ANSWERS badly when you add a mock Tommy gun to your pork this week. outfit and wander into the bank one day to in- nocently cash a check. Scorpio (10/23 - 11/21) — After betting your home on a Seahawks victory in Super Bowl Taurus (4/20 - 5/20) — Your grief over an XLIX, you’ll devote the time your newfound ending romance will take a strange form. You’ll homelessness brings you to locating and killing begin to sympathy bake everything from crusty head coach Pete Carroll. After becoming devastat- French bread to American apple pie, in the name ingly proficient with a knife, you’ll stake out of love. You’ll also eat out of sympathy and gain Carroll’s home and finally break in on a rainy a few pounds. Movement will begin to require too Seattle night. After grabbing the embattled coach much effort and will result in chest pains. After a from behind — your blade to his throat, a sure kill doctor’s visit reveals you’re on death’s doorstep, in sight — you’ll opt to drop back five yards and you’ll eventually be forced to take in a “sadness attempt a haphazard knife throw. Ironically, Car- salad” from time to time. roll will intercept the toss and kill you with your own weapon. Gemini (5/21 - 6/21) — You’ll begin to make amends with the Lord over the ill-advised omis- Sagittarius (11/21 - 12/22) — Tired of large sion of rage over people who upset you. You’ll business interests influencing public policy, you’ll say several Our Fathers in hopes that you’ll regain travel to Washington D.C. to take on the “Gay FROM pAGE 44 the grace you’ve been taught, from childhood, Lobby,” which is no doubt behind the recent despicable attempts to legalize what God has is important. You’ll begin to take out your rage so clearly condemned. To your surprise, you’ll F by running pedestrians over through the newest discover that — as a lifestyle choice and not a Grand Theft Auto video game. Nothing soothes well-funded industry — there is no such thing. U a tortured soul more than watching members of Stupefied, you’ll eventually realize the location T a chain gang struggle to get away from certain you’ve arrived at is a hotel themed bar for homo- disaster when a colleague is run over by the sexual males. But always a fiscal conservative, U Corvette Stingray. not even a zealot like you can turn down $1 well R drinks until 9 p.m — assless chaps be damned. Cancer (6/21 - 7/22) — Your lover will try un- E successfully to explain that the culinary adultery Capricorn (12/22 - 1/19) — After breaking a began because you’re a picky eater who doesn’t glass scale at work, you’ll come to the realization enjoy food that anyone over the age of 12 should that your chances of winning the office weight S enjoy. Your rage will build as your significant loss pool is about as slim as you aren’t. After sweeping the shattered pieces under a conference H other explains that the unfaithfulness started table, you’ll start to sob as you head out the door O with a trip to the new Red or White, but quickly for an early and extended lunch break at Hart’s became a whirlwind romance of Callaghan’s, Fried Chicken. However, as you squeeze your C The Bull, Osman’s and even Moe’s. The most way into one of the prefabricated booths, you K harmful aspect of the entire escapade will be that won’t be able to fight a smile. There’s no hurt in your lover will admit to not thinking of you while this world two breasts, a thigh, a biscuit, some doing the unthinkable. gravy, okra and a sweet tea can’t cure.

LAGNIAPPE | February 5, 2015 - February 11, 2015 | 49 MOBILE MAGNIFIED | STYLE The good times are rolling and grass is good BY BOOZIE BEER NUES/SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

ongratulations. We survived the first week of Mardi Gras. At press time, we got word the And even had to keep partying on Sunday with the Super Dauphin Street Drunks and Wild Bowl. It was a long weekend, but there is no rest for the Mauvilians would be invading down- weary. We have to keep it up. With two full weekends, town Tuesday night, Feb. 3. So if you Cincluding Joe Cain, then Lundi Gras and Fat Tuesday, we have our saw a bunch of Indians and Pirates, work cut out for us. I believe in us though. I really do. Just remem- that’s probably who it was. We will ber to build a base with the MoonPies. This is very important. have a full report on their shenani- But enough with the pep talk and advice. Time to get to the gans next issue. good stuff. Oh, Mardi Gras. How I love thee. Let the good times keep on rolling. The good times they are a rolling On Friday night, The Conde Cavaliers got the Mobile parading That grass is bada$$ season kicked off with their floats featuring “Mythical Beasts.” On Sunday night, the New Though none seemed to feature Seattle Seahawks’ Marshawn England Patriots bested the Seattle “Beast Mode” Lynch, there were serpents and dragons and other Seahawks to win Super Bowl XLIX. scary creatures. There were a few players who had And later on at their ball, the folks over at Barrett Greer Design spent time in the state of Alabama. Photo/ facebook.com/DieHardMovies really slung it up in high style again, creating a two-headed 3D The Patriots’ Don’t’a Hightower Come to the (Gulf) Coast, we’ll have a few laughs,” says bruce Willis. Not dragon on their stage to go along with their theme. They also did played at the University of Alabama the Pierrettes ball last weekend, and it was truly stunning. Their as did the Seahawks’ James Carpen- really, but he is filming a new movie here and they need extras. Help theme was “Behind the Mask” and my spies said the set looked ter. And of the course the play of the him out. like an exquisite art gallery. These guys are really bringing it this game, the final Patriots interception year as far as the décor goes. to clench the win was made by Uni- film that will be shot in the Port City. The film is titled “Extrac- On Saturday, the Bayport Parading Society, Pharaohs, Order of versity of West Alabama rookie Malcolm Butler, who had worked tion” and will begin shooting Feb. 9. Um, question, do they real- Hebe and Conde Explorers kept the party going on the streets of at Popeyes before joining the team. ize it’s Mardi Gras? I hope they don’t need any downtown streets Mobile. My spies said it was a fun parade, though a bit chilly. But the biggest Alabama star of the evening was the field itself. shut down. Not even Bruce Willis can mess up our Gras. Yippee I am told the Conde Cavaliers were the most generous with The turf was trucked in from Bent Oak Farm in Foley, Ala., and ki yay, mother-scratchers! their throws of all the societies who paraded last weekend. We got a big shout out from announcers Al Michaels and Cris Col- Anyway, if you would like to get your big break into the cut- hear the strangest throws received from all of last weekend’s linsworth. They even mentioned it was the hometown of Kenny throat world of acting in Lower Alabama, email a head shot and parades included a plastic pair of baby sandals with the tag still on “The Snake” Stabler. Talk about a victory for one local company, full body shot to [email protected]. You them (at least they were new!), a shower cap, sidewalk chalk and who also provides the grass for Bryant-Denny and Jordan Hare will also need to include your name, age, phone number, height an assortment of stuffed animals with varying degrees of crust and stadiums, among others in the NFL. and weight. funk on them. I’m also told boxes of Nutty Buddies and Oatmeal Crème Pies proved to be delicious but quite painful when they hit Well kids, that’s all I got this week. Just remember, whether Bruce Willis needs you rain or shine, dramatic or scandalous, or some plain ol’ Gras you in the head. He does. I’m serious. He needs you to be an extra in his new lovin’, I will be there. Ciao!

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