nneew! dish fi nd out where to eat, drink and JACKSONVILLE be merry

blackwater sol revue sst.t. augustine’saugustine’s amphitheatreamphitheatre re-opensre-opens thisthis weekendweekend los lobos interview | jim draper at stellars annex | fccj artist series 2007 - 2008 season preview

free weekly guide to entertainment and more | august 30-september 5, 2007 | www.eujacksonville.com 2 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper table of contents feature FCCJ Artist Series ...... PAGES 14-15 St. Augustine Amphitheatre ...... PAGES 19-21 Blackwater Sol Revue (interview with JJ Grey) ...... PAGE 21 movies Movies in Theaters this Week ...... PAGES 6-10 War (movie review) ...... PAGE 6 Interview (movie review) ...... PAGE 7 Illegal Tender (movie review) ...... PAGE 8 September Dawn (movie review) ...... PAGE 9 New Maps of New Worlds (movie review) ...... PAGE 10 at home Zoobilee (Jacksonville Zooological Gardens) ...... PAGE 13 dish Cortessés (restaurant review)...... PAGES 16-17 Ghetto Gourmet (commentary) ...... PAGE 17 Old Town Drinking (pub crawl) ...... PAGE 18 music Music Calendar ...... PAGES 22-26 Los Lobos (interview) ...... PAGE 22 Korby Lenker (at European Street) ...... PAGE 23 Gator Country/Cole Deggs (interview) ...... PAGE 24 Poison (arena rock show) ...... PAGE 25 Stay Tuned Studios (grand opening) ...... PAGE 26 arts / theatre / on stage ArtWalk ...... PAGE 12 Frat House (theatre review) ...... PAGE 27 Arts Calendar ...... PAGES 27-28 Draper at Stellars (art exhibit) ...... PAGE 28 columns and stuff Native Foreigner ...... PAGE 29 Beachwise ...... PAGE 30 The Jock ...... PAGE 30 NASCAR News & Notes ...... PAGE 31

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 3 thisweek poison SpaceBop and AUGUST 30 Weed Blade thursday You cannot cut through the noise with a Weed Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Washington Redskins Blade. Described as It’s Jaguars time! Bring the entire family and cheer on NFL’s Jaguars “Electro Thrash Radness,” as they take on the Washington Redskins in this exciting preseason SpaceBop is a connecticut game! Tickets: $42-$95/single game, $360-$930/season passes band blazing an irregular (good for 10 games) trail down the east coast. In spite of what Jacksonville Municipal bucky covington Stadium- 7:30 pm their name may infer, Info: (904) 633-2000 they are neither spacey nor boppy. They are an avant-garde garage punk band. My Own Sin Catch this show at TSI downtown - 8 pm My Own Sin is an unusual sonic blend of emotional turbulence and Bucky Covington Info: (904) 424-3531 keen musicianship. The female-fronted Orange Park natives won reject Bucky two Hard Music Awards in 2005 for Best Alternative Artist and Best Covington shows Jacksonville New Artist. The band will perform live this weekend with Transera, that he has what it takes to Musiq Soulchild Echoes through Chaos, and Mana Zen. Tickets: $6 After debuting in 2000 entertain as he takes to the Jack Rabbits Info: (904) 398-7496 Freebird stage next week! and releasing two Tickets: $17/advance, $20/day renowned albums, Musiq of show Freebird Live Soulchild has become Shirley Caesar and The Williams Info: (904) 246-BIRD known for creating some Brothers of the supplest R&B of Both are Grammy winning gospel singers. Shirley the new millennium. His Caesar often shouts her music in order for her Silverstein Tribute Art latest album, Luvanmusiq, messages to be received. She believes that with all Show is a re-introduction of the suffering and hardships in the world people will Jacksonville University hosts sorts for the musician. listen to her energetic and boisterous style and be Silverstein: Retrospective, an Get to know him for the encouraged. exhibition to memorialize Brad Silverstein, professor of painting. The fi rst time or all over again musiq soulchild Jacksonville Veterans Arena Info: (904) 630-3900 retrospective will include artwork by Silverstein and creations by a when Musiq Soulchild comes variety of artists to honor his legacy. An opening reception will be to Jacksonville this weekend. SEPTEMBER 1 - 3 held 5 pm to 7 pm on Thursday and the show runs until September Tickets: $33.50-$63.50 Florida Theatre- 8 pm Info: (904) th 26. Alexander Brest Museum and Gallery- Jacksonville University 355-2787 25 Annual Labor Day Catfi sh Festival Info: (904) 256-7374 Baseball, a 5K run, arts and crafts and even a parade. There’s plenty of fun for the whole family at the 25th Annual Labor Day AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 3 Catfi sh Festival and there’s plenty of something else too… delicious southern-fried catfi sh! Eat your fi ll at this free three-day Krystal Square Off outdoor festival celebrating the most delicious whiskered fi sh AUGUST 31 Dieters beware: competitive eating is coming to the First Coast! in the sea! Downtown Kingsland, GA Info: (800) 433-0225 or friday Register on-site to compete in a two minute Krystal burger- kingslandcatfi shfestival.com. eating contest. Qualifying “gurgitators” will move on to the World Championship contest in Chattanooga, TN in October. Art Run at Art House Jacksonville Landing Info: (904) 353-1188 Jacksonville Suns vs. Montgomery Biscuits Get some great art and help a great cause! Proceeds for this special The Suns wrap up their regular season this weekend with a series art auction/sale will go to Kahisha “Kye” Dixon, a runner who is of games against the fearsome, but oh-so-delicious Montgomery participating in the upcoming Nike Women’s Marathon in San Biscuits. See our favorite boys of summer take down their fl aky Francisco to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. foes and enjoy end-of-the-season festivities every night including Art House, San Marco- 7 pm saturday SEPTEMBER 1 bobblehead giveaways, an appearance by the famous chicken Info: (904) 294-9931 mascot and much more. Tickets: $5.50-$11.50 Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville Info: (904) 358-2846 Stone Sour Jacksonville Jaguars Pep Rally Stone Sour is a Grammy- Kick off the Jaguars’ 2007 football season in a big way by coming to the Zoo’s annual nominated melodic metal SEPTEMBER 2 band and the side project Jacksonville Jaguars Pep Rally! Some of sunday of Corey Taylor, vocalist of your favorite Jaguars’ players and the ROAR cheerleaders will be on hand to meet their fans, Poison Slipknot. The group will be FINALLY, “Something to Believe In!” 80s Glam-metal gods Poison, sign autographs and pose for photos. There coming to Plush this weekend complete with Bret “Rock of Love” Michaels himself, will be gracing to tear the roof off the place will also be giveaways and prize drawings for our own Veterans Memorial Arena stage with Ratt and Vains of with special guests Sydonia popular Jaguars swag. Don’t miss it! Jenna “Every Rose Has It’s Thorn,” but if you miss this blast from Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens- 11 am to 1 pm and Dirty Little Rabbits. the past, you’ll be missing “Nothin’ But a Good Time!” Read the Info: (904) 757-4463 Tickets: $28 Plush - 8 pm stone sour story about Ratt on page 25. Tickets $29.75-$39.75 Veterans Info: (904) 743-1845 Memorial Arena- 8 pm Info: (904) 630-3900

4 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper wednesday SEPTEMBER 5 tuesday SEPTEMBER 4 ArtWalk New Maps of the New World- Films and What could be more Videos by Roger Beebe artsy than a Jaguars Indie fi lmmaker Roger Beebe will stop by the San Marco Theatre Pep Rally in Hemming this Tuesday to show Jacksonville fi lm lovers some new work Plaza? See story on and a few classics from his oeuvre. Seven shorts will be shown page 12. during this very special event. See story on page 10. Tickets: $5 San Marco Theatre- 9:30 pm Info: (904) 396-4845 the rentals Steel Magnolias Come to the Alhambra Dinner Theatre this Wednesday and enjoy the opening night of their latest theatrical production, Steel Magnolias. The Rentals Set in Truvy’s beauty salon in a small Louisiana town, Matt Sharp, former bassist for geekcore godfathers Weezer, will hit With humble beginnings this emotional tale centers around the lives of six women the Freebird with his band The Rentals on Sunday in support of their in Baltimore and then who bare their lives to each other, helping one another new album The Last Little Life. Golden Boy and Copeland will also solidifying their lineup in with their strength and love. This tear-jerker will run perform. Tickets: $15/advance, $20/day of show Raleigh, , through October 7th. Freebird Live- 8 pm Info: (904) 246-BIRD the genre-blending Tickets: $39 to $46 depending on the day and time you quintet called alesana choose Alhambra Dinner Theatre Info: (904) 641-1212 Blackwater Sol Revue has come a long way JJ Grey & Mofro, Los Lobos, Tony Joe White in order to bring you It’s the weekend we’ve all be waiting for: the opening of the their musical vision Jax Reads! The Big Read Jax Reads! The Big Read will be an eight-week newly refurbished St. Augustine Amphitheatre. What better way and incendiary live community-wide one-book read centering on Zora Neale to celebrate this auspicious occasion than to attend the very fi rst performance. Exploring Hurston’s book, “Their Eyes Were Watching God.” show to grace the beautiful new stage, the Blackwater Sol Revue. the heights of love and This Wednesday is the offi cial kick off of the Community This one-day music festival will bring together the best performers the lows of heartbreak alesana Read, held at the Main Library Branch. Events will in rock, blues, jazz, Americana, Latin, soul, and funk, including JJ and bitterness that often feature actor and Zora Neale Hurston authority Phyllis Grey & Mofro, Los Lobos, Tony Joe White, the Lee Boys, and the follow, alesana’s music strikes a universal chord with audiences McEwen’s acclaimed one-person performance Zora Live! Legendary JC’s. Read all about the Amphitheatre and Blackwater around the world. Check them out with As Cities Burn, Mayday Jacksonville Public Library, Main Branch- 6:30 pm to 8 pm Sol Revue on pages 19-21. Tickets: $35/early bird, $40/advance, Parade, and Jonezetta. Tickets: $10 Jack Rabbits- 7 pm Info: (904) 630-2417 $45/at gate, $100/VIP St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A Info: (904) 398-7496 South- 2 pm Info: blackwatersolrevue.com

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 5 end. But Statham’s macho rasp and butt-kicking MOVIES OPENING demeanor create great tension. His only problem is fi nding out who killed his partner before it’s too HALLOWEEN Under the direction of Rob Zom- late and everyone is dead. It would be frustrating bie there is a new take on the legend and a for him to not get the kill shot to his credit. Clearly, new chapter in the Michael Myers “Halloween” Statham is a grizzled veteran of action movies and saga. Starring: Daeg Faerch, Danielle Harris, in terms of pure physicality, he is one of the best Malcolm McDowell, Danny Trejo, and Sheri actors of this ilk out there. Moon. Rated R

INTERVIEW Self-destructive journalist Pierre Peders has traveled the world seeing some of the most horrifying sights imaginable. So it’s no surprise that he’s upset when he’s de- moted to interviewing America’s most famous soap star Katya. The two meet and immedi- ately it’s a collision of two worlds. But as the night progresses and their confessions grow more intimate, Pierre and Katya fi nd a deeper connection. Starring: Sienna Miller, Steve Buscemi James Franco and directed by Steve Buscemi. Rated R

DEATH SENTENCE Nick Hume is a mild-man- nered executive with a perfect life, until one gruesome night he witnesses something that changes him forever. Transformed by grief, good god y’all Hume eventually comes to the disturbing con- clusion that no length is too great when protect- ing his family. Starring: Kevin Bacon, Aisha War movie review Tyler, Kelly Preston, Stuart Lafferty and John Goodman. Rated R BY RICK GRANT [email protected]

C+ Rated R 103 min all the members of both gangs end up dead. NOW SHOWING Meanwhile, gang warfare rages in the streets of Want action? This movie has it in spades. Yes, San Francisco’s Chinatown, as bands of assassins this picture is packed with numerous kung-fu scenes, roam the neighborhoods looking for targets. Craw- When Chang (Long) fi nally ventures into the ARCTIC TALE The same directors that brought gun gags, chase scenes, and car stunts, as well as ford’s team arrives after the mayhem, so he insti- , Crawford’s task force has him in their us March of the Penguins are back with this tale enough dead bodies piling up to be real life Iraq. Then tutes a proactive plan to attack before the gangs get crosshairs. Chang is clever, but not as smart as of real animals that take us inside an icy king- there are tattooed Triads and other heavily armed into fi refi ghts. The action is hot and heavy with very Rogue, who has double-crossed him, hanging him dom at the very top of the earth. A polar bear Asian thugs, with special FBI agents on their tail. Let little dialogue. In a special way, the fi lm shines as a out in the cold. Yes, in this world of Asian gangs, cub, Nanu, and a walrus pup, Seela, are about the games begin. pure action vehicle with Crawford breaking all the FBI trust no one and carry heavy ordnance. to tackle the brave new world that confronts Jet Li portrays a shadowy Japanese hitman, rules of probable cause and treatment of detainees. With all the killing going on, it’s hard for view- them as their ancient ways of survival are about the elusive Rogue (Jet-Li), who has his own agenda Bang, bang, shoot, shoot with fi sts of steel fl ying in ers to keep the gangs straight. But, Rogue sets up to change. Starring: Queen Latifah, Katrina pitting the Triads against the other greedy Asian gang choreographed kung-fu scenes. a brilliant scheme to bring down both gangs. After Agate, Kwesi Boakye, Michael Huang (II), and controlled by Shiro (Ryo Ishibashi) in a bloody bid for Filmmaker Philip G. Atwell deftly directs the viewing this fi lm, you will have worked off enough Dante Pastula. Rated G power. His nemesis is Special FBI Agent Jack Craw- action like a ballet. Li’s suave looks and charismatic vicarious violence to go home and go to bed know- ford (Jason Statham) and his task force. This is not presence in front of the camera create a dangerous ing that these action actors have acted out your BALLS OF FURY In the unsanctioned, under- your grandfather’s FBI. These guys carry automatic character even when he’s standing still. In a fl ash, he worst violent tendencies so you don’t have to. That’s ground, and unhinged world of extreme Ping- assault rifl es and are schooled in martial arts. Rogue can kill an adversary, but in this fi lm, he chooses to the beauty of action movies. Pong, the competition is brutal and the stakes is only pretending to work for the Triad kingpin, Chang use a hand gun that kills much faster than kung-fu. are deadly. Now, this outrageous new comedy (John Lone). However, Rogue is on a special mission Why do these action characters use swords in some serves up this secret world for the fi rst time that is only revealed at the end of the fi lm. scenes when a gun would be much easier? They on-screen. Starring: Dan Fogler, Christopher Crawford’s primary mission as an FBI Agent is want to show-off their swordsmanship, of course. Walken, George Lopez, Maggie Q, Thomas Len- to bring down both gangs, but his secondary motiva- Clang, thrust, and a sword fi ght opponent gets sliced nonRating: PG-13 tion is to track down the gang members who killed and diced. If all else fails, Rogue just takes out his his partner and his partner’s wife and kid. Although Glock and shoots his opponent dead, right through BECOMING JANE It’s 1795 and young Jane Rogue seems to be doing Crawford’s job by foment- the heart. Austen is a feisty 20-year old and an emerging ing war between the two gangs, Crawford wants As the momentum builds for the grand fi nale, writer who already sees a world beyond pride revenge any way he can get it, even if it means that an interesting twist develops that is only clear at the and prejudice. Sparks soon fl y when Jane meets the roguish and decidedly non-aristocratic Tom Lefroy. If they attempt to marry, they will risk everything that matters - family, friends and fortune. Starring: Anne Hathaway, Julie Walters, James McAvoy, Maggie Smith, Jessica Ash- worth. Rating: PG

BRATZ We wondered where they would fi nd 

6 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper of the premise is: Katya is much more intelligent and street savvy than Pierre thought. She uses this four actual teenage girls with heads big enough tête-à-tête to create an improvised scenario. In to play the roles of the Bratz dolls that we have all other words, she is putting-on Pierre with her clever come to recognize, but I guess it wasn’t that hard. conversation and acting talent. The story is about four teenage girls who come Pierre never suspects that Katya is from different social and economic backgrounds manipulating him as she spins her BS, and he eats and empower themselves by rejecting their re- it up trying to get it on tape. She even makes a play spective high school cliques and band together, to seduce him, but he wisely rejects this tactic. calling themselves Bratz. Rated PG. The two verbally thrust and parry hoping to get the advantage, but their duel appears to end in a draw. Dads Charlie Hinton and Phil The scenario was conceived to showcase Ryerson take over running a summer day camp. two actors in one setting, like a play, but Buscemi’s Armed with no knowledge of the great outdoors, orchestration of the scenes and the large loft a dilapidated facility and a motley group of camp- apartment opens up the space limitations of the ers, it doesn’t take long before things get out script. The barking phone calls serve as scene of control. Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr, Lochlyn dividers, frequently interrupting their conversation. Munro, Paul Rae, Richard Gant, Spencir Bridges. As the story unfolds, viewers realize that Katya Rating: PG. is clever and cunning as she allows Pierre to get dirt on her. But she is feeding him misinformation DEATH AT A FUNERAL A dysfunctional British and getting off on dominating him with her guile and family gathers for the patriarch’s funeral. Tensions devious nature. If she can do this to one person, she rise, old confl icts are uncovered when a man ar- can do this to others. In other words, she created rives saying he’s the dead man’s gay lover and the character of Katya–the party girl obsessed with threatens blackmail. Starring: Matthew MacFady- her own breasts. The question viewers will ask is: en, Peter Dinklage, Ewen Bremner, Rupert Graves, Is Katya strictly a character she created to mask and Alan Tudyk. Rated R her real self? Eventually, Pierre will ask the same question. EYE OF THE DOLPHIN A young woman learns psychological duel important lessons about family and communica- tion while making friends with a group of dolphins in this drama. Starring: Carly Schroeder, Adrian Interview movie review Dunbar, Katharine Ross, Christine Adams. Rating: PG-13

BY RICK GRANT [email protected] HAIRSPRAY A plump but vivacious teenager joins a popular teen-scene TV show in the early movie critics gave her credit for, and B+ Rated R 83 min 60s and teaches the show about integration by for Pierre, it’s hard to tell when she’s bringing back “negro day.” He-Mom, Edna (John In 2003, Dutch director Theo van Gogh had acting or being real. Travolta), who takes in laundry to suplement her developed this project, but was assassinated by Katya acts out like a spoiled husband’s meager income from a joke store, joins Islamic extremists before it came to fruition. His adolescent. Her cell phone ring her daughter in the movement to restore “negro producers went ahead with the fi lm as a tribute. sounds like a barking dog, which is day.” Rated PG Then Steve Buscemi got involved and, along with annoying. Her boyfriend calls her his writing partner David Schechter, rewrote the incessantly but she puts him off. screenplay for American audiences. Buscemi Secretly, her guest intrigues her, and HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOE- Rumors of Lord Voldmort’s return have been directed and co-starred with Sienna Miller in this she probes his consciousness to NIX dismissed. Harry and Dumbledore are targeted psychological duel between a journalist and a young learn about his motivations. The thrust by the Wizard Authorities. And, an authoritarian female movie star. bureaucrat gradually seizes power at Hogwarts. The play-like setting was tweaked to include a It’s jungle of wizards out there with special effects few more scenes, but most of the story takes place galore. Rated PG-13 in Katya’s (Miller) loft apartment. Buscemi plays Pierre Peders, a political journalist who writes for a major daily. He has a falling-out with his editor, I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU CHUCK AND LARRY Two single Brooklyn fi refi ghters, Chuck (Adam and is consequently assigned a fl uff piece. He must Sandler) and Larry (Kevin James) are best friends. interview a Lindsey Lohan-like starlet named Katya Larry saves Chuck’s life and he is willing to do (Sienna Miller), who is more famous for her endless anything to even the score, even masquerading partying and fl uxuating breast size than her acting. as a gay couple to receive benefi ts for Larry’s It’s the type of story Pierre hates, and his trip to kids, which means they have to go through a Washington DC is cancelled while someone else ceremony, have a honeymoon, and live together. gets the assignment to appear on a major TV news Rated PG-13 show. Pissed off by having to pay penitence, Pierre After the gangsters who goes to a restaurant to meet Katya, but she’s ILLEGAL TENDER killed his father come to settle a score, a teenage more than an hour late. He didn’t bother to fi nd out boy and his mother turn the tables on the killers. anything about her, and his interview is obviously Starring: Rick Gonzalez, Wanda de Jesus, Dania skin-deep. Soon, Katya realizes he is not prepared, Ramirez, Tego Calderón. Rating: R so she storms off yelling insults at him. As she leaves the restaurant, Pierre’s cab gets in an In his latest accident right in front of her. He hits his head and is MR. BEAN’S HOLIDAY misadventure, Mr. Bean--the nearly wordless mis- shaken up. So, feeling sorry for him, she takes him fi t who seems to be followed by a trail of pratfalls back to her loft to help him. Thus begins the strange and hijinks--goes on holiday to the French Riviera dialogue between them, and it becomes apparent and becomes ensnared in a European adventure that things are not what they seem. of cinematic proportions. Starring: Rowan At- At fi rst, Katya is nice to Pierre, getting him a kinson, Willem Dafoe, Emma De Caunes, Jean scotch and ice for his head. Pierre realizes he may Rochefort, Karel Roden. Rating: G have a rare opportunity to interview Tanya with her defenses down. So, he probes a bit to see if she will The story involves a chef, open up. After a few drinks, she starts to relax and NO RESERVATIONS Kate (Catherine Zeta-Jones), whose sister is the two develop a grudging respect for one another. As it turns out, she is a much better actress than

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 7 Wilson Jr. is ready to take over as family protector killed in a car accident. She inherits her sister’s and he wants answers. To get them, he must travel daughter Zoe (Abigail Breslin). Kate has no idea to Puerto Rico and come face-to-face with Javier how to deal with the precocious 8-year old girl. Cordero (Gary Perez), the man who killed his father She takes her to work and tries to keep her busy. and has terrorized his mother for the past 20 years. Meanwhile, the owner of the restaurant hires a When laid out like I just did, the plot doesn’t sous chef, Nick (Aaron Eckhart), who, at fi rst, seem half bad. It almost sounds like it could be a clashes with Kate, but as time goes on a romance pretty good movie. One of the many problems with develops. Rated PG Illegal Tender is that too much is shown too soon. Instead of allowing the audience to feel a connection ONCE ‘Once’ is just a simple love story about a with the main character by employing fl ashbacks, Guy with a , a Girl with a borrowed piano, so we get information at the same time he does, the and the music they make together ... and it’s one viewer is shown everything in chronological order. of the most heartbreakingly perfect fi lms you’ll By the time we’re in present day Connecticut, we see this year. Starring: Glen Hansard, Markéta know more about Wilson Jr.’s past than he does, Irglová, Bill Hodnett, Danuse Ktrestova. Rating: R making his slow investigation into his parents’ lives an annoyance to the audience. This misstep in the RATATOUILLE A cheeky rat living within the editing room paves the way for disaster and every- walls of a famous Paris bistro longs to become thing that can go wrong does go wrong in Illegal a chef but is hindered by his family’s skepticism, Tender. the rodent-hating staff, and patrons of the restau- As it stands, the story itself, like most of the rant. Rated G characters, lacks common sense. Our leading man is a straight-laced college boy who, upon fi nding RESURRECTING THE CHAMP When a strug- out about his father’s past and his family’s current gling reporter encounters a former boxing cham- threat, is handed a gun by his own mother and told pion living on the streets, his journey to uncover to defend himself. It gets even sillier when the young the truth becomes an opportunity to man practices his shooting wearing an ultra-preppy reexamine his own life. Starring: Samuel L. light purple cardigan sweater. Jackson, Josh Hartnett, Teri Hatcher, Alan Alda, unwatchable We’re completely beaten over the head with the Kathryn Morris. Rating: PG-13 fact that this kid is not “gangsta” when he has his fi rst shoot-out and his hands shake so much that it’s RUSH HOUR 3 The unlikely duo is headed to the Illegal Tender fi lm review comical. He does, however, manage to miraculously City of Lights to stop a global criminal conspiracy injure one of the bloodthirsty hired assassins, putting and save the life of an old friend, Ambassador an illogical end to the gun play as the other would-be Han’s now-grown daughter, Soo Yung. Starring: BY KELLIE ABRAHAMSON [email protected] killer drags her partner out of the house and into a Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Max von Sydow, No- car, leaving the mark alive and well. Bare in mind, emie Lenoir, Hiroyuki Sanada. Rating: PG-13 F Rated R 108 min. and immediately begins packing, Wilson begins to this all takes place in a mini-mansion in a cushy Unwatchable. That’s really the only word that think his perfect life has some imperfect roots. He’s Connecticut suburb where, apparently, no one calls A love story set against SEPTEMBER DAWN comes to mind when I think of Illegal Tender, a mess right. the cops when gunshots are fi red. Right. There are the 19th century massacre of a wagon train of of a gangster fl ick that was, for reasons beyond Twenty-one years earlier, Wilson Sr. (Manny plenty of these ridiculous moments throughout Illegal settlers in Utah at the hands of a Mormon group. comprehension, miraculously saved from a bargain- Perez) is awaiting the birth of his son. A street boss Tender, far too many to recount in this review. Even Starring: Jon Voight, Terence Stamp, Taylor Hand- bin, straight-to-video release. The fi lm is now in for drug-dealing gangsters, Wilson is searching for the big plot twist, the whole reason for Cordero’s ley, Lolita Davidovich, Tamara Hope. Rating: R theaters, though I suspect not for long. a way out of the mob life and fi nds it at the wrong persistent bloodlust, is laughably bad. It’s a shame Wilson DeLeon Jr. (Rick Gonzalez) is a bright end of a gun. Millie gives birth to their son, never that the decent premise falls prey to incredibly STARDUST A young man named Tristan (Charlie college student living in an affl uent Connecticut truly knowing why her husband was killed or why sloppy story writing. Sadder still is that there’s even Cox) tries to win the heart of Victoria (Sienna suburb with his mother, Millie (Wanda De Jesus) and the gangsters are intent on coming after her and her more to complain about! Miller), the beautiful but cold object of his desire, little brother Randy (Antonio Ortiz). With a beautiful newborn baby. She vows to protect her child and While you may not remember seeing them, by going on a quest to retrieve a fallen star. His girlfriend (Dania Ramirez) and a 4.0 in school, Wil- goes on the run, fl eeing whenever another wave of most of the actors in Illegal Tender have plenty of journey takes him to a mysterious and forbidden son seems to be on the fast-track to success. But, violence rushes her way. experience in Hollywood. I’ve see Rick Gonzalez in land beyond the walls of his village. On his odys- when Millie spots an old acquaintance from her past Discovering his parents’ past, a now grown many supporting roles over the years and have never sey, Tristan fi nds the star, which has transformed had a problem with his acting until now. Maybe he’s into a striking girl named Yvaine (Claire Danes). so awesomely terrible and wooden here because Also starring Peter O’Toole, Michelle Pfeiffer, Rob- he’s not used to carrying a movie on his own. Or ert De Niro and Ricky Gervais. Rating: PG-13 perhaps newbie writer/director Franc Reyes is to blame. I’m going with the latter. SUPERBAD Two co-dependent high school guys With the notable exception of child actor Anto- want to hook up with girls before they gradu- nio Ortiz and reggaetonero-turned-actor Tego Calde- ate and go off to different colleges, but, after a ron, none of the performances were any good. When calamitous night just trying to buy alcohol for a they weren’t under-acting and fl at, the actors were school party, overcoming their separation anxiety completely over-the-top and melodramatic, never becomes a greater challenge than getting the anything in between. Wanda De Jesus especially girls. Starring: Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, Michael falls victim to this, underwhelming the audience dur- Cera, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and Bill Hader. ing talky scenes and then upping the camp factor a Rated R million fold during the action sequences. De Jesus’ performance is the only one that is so bad it’s good. TALK TO ME Follows the life of African American The rest are just plain bad. ex-convict Petey Greene (Don Cheadle), who After seeing Illegal Tender, I am reminded of became a radio and television talk show success, the last horrifi cally awful fi lm I had the displeasure of but couldn’t overcome his alcohol addiction. seeing, the yawner I Know Who Killed Rated R. Me. Like Lohan’s loser, Illegal Tender has a decent enough premise but fails thanks to poor story writing THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM Jason Bourne is and crappy acting. The difference is, I would watch hunted by the people who made him what he is-a I Know Who Killed Me again for the unintentionally legendary assassin. Having lost his memory and funny camp factor. Illegal Tender simply does not the one person he loved, he is undeterred by the have that. Fans of Tego Calderon will probably enjoy barrage of bullets and a new generation of highly- seeing his fi rst time on the big screen and Wanda trained killers. Starring: Matt Damon, Joan Allen, De Jesus will provide some laughs along the way, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn, Paddy Considine. but this fi lm isn’t worth the time or effort for anyone  else.

8 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper have God on their side in their holy war against booty of horses, cattle, trinkets and gold, and Western nations. assuring them that The Great Spirit would protect In the minds of the radical Mormon sect them. But when the Indians started to take heavy in 1857, the massacre of a -bound casualties, they quit, leaving the Mormons to do wagon train’s men, women and children was their own killing. justified because the psychotic Mormon Bishop, In Cain’s script, he created a forbidden love Jacob Samuelson (Jon Voight) had ordered the affair (a la Romeo and Juliet) between Bishop mass killing. His rationale was they were from Samuelson’s son, Jonathan, and a pretty young Missouri, where Mormon prophet Joseph Smith settler woman, Emily Hudson (Tamara Hope). was murdered. Surely the members of the wagon Jonathan became friends with her and her family. train were responsible. More significantly, Bishop He never believed that the settlers were a threat. Samuelson claimed to have spoken directly with However, he was chained up and prevented from the spirit of Smith who ordered the slaughter, warning the settlers of his father’s diabolical plan speaking for God almighty. to slaughter them. He loved Emily and had asked Although Cain’s deft direction and the cast’s her to marry him. He was planning to join Emily stellar acting are riveting, the story is depressing and the settlers and start a new life in California. as viewers see how religious fanaticism can Historically, the Mountain Meadow Massacre justify anything in the name of God. Every did occur. Archeologists have found the remains day, somewhere in the world, innocent men, of the settlers in the meadow where the slaughter women and children are dying because religious took place. However, the Mormon Church fanaticism has turned evil. Killing in the name of disavows any connection with the incident. The God. Mormon sect that committed this atrocity was a Once people submit their will to the limited radical branch not sanctioned by the church, like parameters of religious dogma, their moral the Jihadists in the Muslim world compasses are skewed and their decisions have Interestingly, as the story unfolds, there are to conform to the limitations of the dogma. Once flashbacks to Brigham Young (Terence Stamp) Bishop Samuelson ordered the massacre, his being interviewed by authorities regarding the followers had no choice but to obey–after all he massacre. Then in his 80s, Young said that he was carrying out the will of God, just like Jim would have never sanctioned the massacre. He Jones did in his forced suicide/massacre of 900 would have let the settlers go through the Mormon of his followers at Jonestown. land in peace. Clearly, the sect, lorded over by In this controversial Mountain Meadows the evil Bishop Samuelson, had turned into a cult, Massacre, director Cain makes a Jihad which fed on Samuelson’s paranoia that anyone comparison as Bishop Samuels proclaims that from Missouri was wicked. the wagon train settlers (which the Mormons The film underscores how dangerous call Gentiles) are cursed by God. “They must religious fanaticism can be to the true believers. be cleansed by death atonement.” At first, the In this case, it turned normal men into mass Mormons coerced their Indian friends into doing murderers in the name of God. Hey, it happens their dirty work by promising them part of the everyday in our world. religious fanaticism September Dawn movie review BY RICK GRANT [email protected] B+ Rated R 110 min involves an enclave of Mormon zealots whose This true historical drama, written and religious fanaticism turned evil. It’s tantamount to directed by Christopher Cain, happened in 1857, what is happening today with the fundamentalist but the story is topical, in that the scenario Muslim Jihadists, who fervently believe that they

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 9 Rated PG-13

THE LAST LEGION As the Roman empire crumbles, a young emperor embarks on a perilous voyage to track down the one legion still loyal to Rome and the origins of the famed excaliber un- fl od. Starring: Colin Firth, Ben Kingsley, Aishwarya Rai, Thomas Sangster, Peter Mullan. Rated PG-13

THE INVASION The mysterious crash of the space shuttle leads to the terrifying discovery that there is something alien within the wreckage. Those who come in contact with it are changing in ominous and inexplicable ways. Starring: , Daniel Craig, Jeremy Northam, Jeffrey Wright, and Jackson Bond. Rated PG-13

THE NANNY DIARIES A 21-year-old New York University student becomes a nanny to a family on the Upper East Side who turns out to be the family from hell. Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Laura Linney, Paul Giamatti, Chris Evans, Donna Murphy. Rating: PG-13 avant-garde THE SIMPSONS MOVIE The Simpsons fi nally make it to the big screen. In this adventure, Homer mistakenly pollutes Lake Springfi eld and sets into motion a government plot to destroy their city. D’oh! He must somehow manage to save Spring- fi eld and restore his family’s faith in him. Rated cinema PG-13

TRANSFORMERS The earth is caught in the New Maps of the New World middle of an intergalactic war between two races of robots– the heroic Autobots and the evil Decep- BY JON BOSWORTH [email protected] ticons. Rated PG-13 WHAT: New Maps of the New World Screening with the Filmmaker UNDERDOG A bumbling watchdog gets exposed WHERE: San Marco Theatre to a substance that gives him the powers of a WHEN: September 4th at 9pm superhero. Starring: Alex Neuberger, Jason Lee, Diz White (II), Peter Dinklage, James Belushi. Roger Beebe’s series of films opens with the words “I recently moved to a town where the tallest Rated PG building is a six-story Holiday Inn.” When the image opens to the pink Holiday Inn and filmmaker Roger Beebe starts talking about a city full of strip malls, it’s easy for Floridians to identify with this film. All of VITUS Vitus is a 12-year old boy who has hearing these films were shot in Super 8 and everything from the introductions to the credits, are done through like a bat, plays piano like a virtuoso and studies the lens, rather than after-the-fact. Beebe addresses the intent of the film. encyclopedias. However, the daily pressure of “The Strip Mall Trilogy is a series of three city symphonies that attempt to liberate form and color hours of musical practice, his over-protective but from the sprawling consumerist landscape of postmodern America.” well-meaning mother and his father’s precarious Part one of the Strip Mall Trilogy, , is a somewhat abstract collection of images fi nancial situation lead the boy to seek refuge at A Woman, A Mirror and accompanying audio. Implementing an amateurish approach and haunting, avant-garde montages, his eccentric grandfather’s house where he has as well as a soundtrack that is somewhat conceptual, this is the video portrait of a rather average Florida the chance for a normal childhood. Rated PG town, blighted by urban sprawl and wrought with corporate restaurants and retail. The short film is composed of these avant-garde montages that mournfully revel in the disparate and synthetic signposts WAR An infamous assassin, named Rogue, sets off a crime war between rival Asian mobs. An FBI of our corporate culture, ending with an American flag that flies with a Chik-Fil-A flag. agent is determined to bring down the killer after Part Two is titled Composition in Red & Yellow and is dedicated to “the men and women in red and his partner is murdered. yellow.” It is a montage of McDonalds Restaurants from all over the country to the tune of ‘Hands Across Starring: Jet Li, Jason Statham, Devon Aoki, America,’ the anthemic song recorded as a sort of sequel to ‘We Are the World.’ It is a perfectly ironic Nicholas Elia, Luis Guzman. Rating: R pairing of a failed all-star fundraiser from the 80s and the Canadian Corporation that unites these states of ours. SPECIAL SHOWINGS This “trilogy” is comprised of more than three films. Subsequent chapters are bizarre at best. One is presented as an instructional film, something you would be forced to watch at school in the late Summer Movie Classics 2007 70s, but it presents a strange juxtaposition of Irish Americans and Irish-named African-Americans. This Your last chance this summer to enjoy a clas- segment ends with an odd “tribute to the poster children of black America” which highlights Halle Barry sic movie from cinematic history in the beautiful and Tiger Woods. It then goes on to make ambiguous commentary on various racial mixtures represented setting of The Florida Theatre. On September 2 by professional athletes in America. Others include abstract statements about industry, tourism and the don’t miss Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard visual representation of places and entities juxtaposed with their realities. Parts of the film are so abstract in BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S. All showings start that they are constructed from images that are flashed on the screen in rapid succession to a soundtrack at 2 pm. Call 355-ARTS or go to fl oridatheatre. that varies from nothing to samples of machinery or everyday sounds. com for details. An interesting technical fact is that the solid majority of these films were edited entirely in-camera, meaning there was very little post-production manipulation, so like in a photography exhibit, you see precisely what the camera saw at the moment and in the same sequence. Exactly what Roger Beebe is trying to accomplish with this expressionistic style of filmmaking is beyond vague, but fortunately he will be at the showing of the film at the San Marco Theatre on September 4th at 9pm. Although certainly not a traditional storyteller, this sort of film is a far more interesting representation of the aardvark and artistically made films coming from a new generation of filmmakers. Come to the San Marco Theatre and talk to Roger Beebe about these award-winning films after the screening.

10 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 11 walk the edge September ArtWalk BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] For some reason, crowds follow crowds, so despite the map that’s readily available to all who participate in the ArtWalk, many people just follow the crowds or use the map to find one spe- cific place. Then they wander from that location to wherever signs lead or a visible crowd is. This means that some places don’t get the same sort of crowded mob that the popular Burrito Gallery gets, just because they aren’t in the thick of things. Explore a little more! Walk the map’s edge. Take in a part of Downtown you’ve never really explored before. There are about 40 businesses or places that participate in ArtWalk, so it’s pretty much impossible to hit them all in one night, but you can make it your mission to find the places you’ve been neglecting. Located just across from the BellSouth Tower, Café 331 is one of the newer eateries Downtown. You’ll find artwork from Reba Craig, who uses a clever combination of photography and other me- dia to create canvas works with some incredible post-production. You’ll also find Mike Styga, a day trader turned artist, who now does some beauti- ful wood turning work. A number of other artists will also be selling their wares. The Café serves delicious appetizers (real food, not crackers) and wine, so you can nibble while you look (always a plus for me). You could always pop across the street to the Mike Styga BellSouth Tower after the Café. The Tower venue has been sought after by artists since ArtWalk be featuring a photographer, Dorman Cogburn. first started, but since the center of geographical He’s taken plenty of photos around the world. This popularity has shifted, not as many people seem to series is special because they’re shots of the fan- wander in that direction. tastical landscapes of New Zealand and because If you’re into the club scene, you might have he took the entire series using only disposable heard of TSI and the Opaq Gallery. If you haven’t cameras. Despite that, the shots are purported to heard of it, it’s on the East edge of the map. This be amazing. tiny gallery opened in March, in a small room Walking the map’s edge takes some effort, so above the club. Generally, they cover a number of plan ahead. If you decide to go somewhere differ- local artists in their small space. For this upcoming ent, park somewhere different. People often get ArtWalk, they’ll be displaying a show called ‘Now!’ in an ArtWalk rut because they park in the same which will include two video installations from place. Because ArtWalk is after business hours, Cody Hughes and interactive pieces from other there’s more parking then there is during the day area artists. and you have more time to explore. For a map of Heading to the North edge of the map, you’ll parking options go to downtownjacksonville.org find the stately and impressive Karpeles Manu- and click on parking. script Museum. The Director of the Museum says So, next time you go to ArtWalk, plan to go that they “try to schedule our art openings for somewhere you’ve never been and walk to the ArtWalk.” Also, if the artist doesn’t object, they map’s edge. Discovery doesn’t have to be a world try to provide live music. For this ArtWalk, they’ll away; sometimes it’s just a few blocks away.

Highlights For September ArtWalk

The Jacksonville Jaguars will host a pep-rally in Hemming Plaza to gear up for their fi rst home game versus the Tennessee Titans on September 9th. Expect live performances by the drum line and appear- ances by Jaxson de Ville and the ROAR from 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Register to win give-a-ways, including two tickets to the Monday Night game versus the Indianapolis Colts, autographed merchandise and prize packs. Season tickets and Jaguar merchandise will be available for purchase. Wear your team colors out to the Walk to support your team. Tailgate at Gold’s Gym, enjoy barbecue and learn how to line dance. Register to win a Gold’s mem- bership, personal training, a fruit arrangement provided by Edible Arrangements and two Club seat tickets to the Tennessee Titans versus Jacksonville Jaguars game. The Jacksonville Public Library launches this year’s JaxREADS – The BigREAD at 6:30 pm. Nation- ally renowned actress Phyllis McEwen presents her one-woman show “Zora Live: An Evening with Zora Neal Hurston.” The Offi cial ArtWalk After Party is at The Twisted Martini. Turn in your ArtWalk map at the door for a complimentary premium cocktail, bottled or draft beer, glass of house wine, or the featured martini of the day. Must be 21 and over with proper ID and attire.

12 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper were also able to indulge in adult-friendly libations and upbeat tunes at the Range of the Jaguar. The ZOObilee wrapped up with former Jaguar superstar Tony Bos- selli drawing the name of the lucky winner of a Coggin Chevrolet Trailblazer. Delicious food was in no short supply as vendors from all over the city of- fered up some of their most popular menu items. With their Chile Noodle Salad and Peanut-Lime Slaw Crisps, Blue Bamboo was a huge hit with the adults along with Bonefi sh Grill, who served up their popular Bang Bang Shrimp and Ahi Tuna Sashimi. Kids in attendance were in heaven with educational programs were a big priority, fun was putting the “fun” in “fundraiser” nuggets from Chick-fi l-A, peanut butter and jelly high on the agenda as well. sandwiches from Jason’s Deli and all the Bluebell Ice “That’s what we want,” explained Crofton. Cream, Rita’s Italian ices’, and Krispy Kreme donuts “We want everybody to come to the Zoo and see 2007 ZOObilee at the Jacksonville Zoo they could eat. Cinotti’s Bakery provided some ador- how much fun it is. Even without all the games and able animal-shaped cakes for Cake Walks, along things, you can come to the Zoo and have a blast BY KELLIE ABRAHAMSON [email protected] with scrumptious mini-tarts and other sweet treats. just walking through the park and experiencing it with Eleven South Bistro dressed up mac and cheese with the children.” This weekend more than 600 people at- huge chunks of lobster, making a delectable dish that If you happened to miss the 2007 ZOObilee, tended the 2nd annual ZOObilee Splash ‘N Bash at pleased the whole family. Bubba Burgers, Heirlooms take heart: the event will happen again this time the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The unique and Culinary Market, Jamba Juice, Johnny Carino’s, One next year and will no doubt be even more fun. If you completely unforgettable event was fun for the whole Hot Cookie and Sierra Grill were also on hand with simply can’t wait that long, you can visit the Jack- family and all proceeds went toward a terrifi c cause: plenty of yummy food to nibble on. sonville Zoo anytime during their regular hours of funding educational programs and maintaining our My family and I had a terrifi c time at the ZOO- admission. Call (904) 757-4463 for those hours. Be world-class zoo and gardens. EU was there to give bilee, as did all of the people I spoke with throughout sure to keep in mind that even more big Zoo events you a look at what you may have missed. the evening. While raising funds to help with the up- are coming up in the next few weeks. For a complete I spoke with Jacksonville Zoo representative keep of the Zoo and support the facility’s exceptional listing of upcoming Zoo happenings, visit jaxzoo.org. Linda Crofton during the 2007 ZOObilee and she was quite pleased with the turn-out and the remarkable efforts of all the vendors on hand. “We’re really proud of all our vendors and the support they’ve given this event,” she said. “They were excited to be a part of it because they realize what the Zoo can do for the community as an eco- nomic base and from an environmental standpoint.” Truly a family affair, children had plenty to do and see during this one-of-a-kind fundraiser. All around the party area, zookeepers showed off cool animals and answered questions about them. Radio Disney was on hand, spinning kid-friendly tunes in the Play Park as little ZOObilee guests frolicked in the Splash Ground to cool off and moms and dads relaxed nearby. Over in the Great Lawn, a giant wa- Adults were able to cut loose and have a terslide gave kids another chance to get wet and a good time too. A silent auction was held throughout dunking booth and infl atable bounce house provided the evening, giving people a chance to bid on ter- a great deal of amusement. A carnival area was rifi c activities and collector’s items for the whole set up in the Range of the Jaguar courtyard, where family. Up for bid were a weekend package to the kids played fun games for cool prizes. Carousel and Sea and Sky Spectacular, Arthur Murray Ballroom train rides were popular with many families as well. Dancing Lessons, a Play Park party for 60 guests, Of course, celebrities like ROAR Cheerleaders and an autographed football from Marcus Stroud and JaZOO were also on hand to give kids young and old much, much more. Camera Craft took beautiful, free an autograph and some big laughs. family portraits throughout the evening. Grown-ups

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 13 LOU DIAMOND PHILLIPS AS KING ARTHUR IN then & now ”CAMELOT” the new FCCJ Artist Series ’07-08

BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected]

FCCJ is gearing up once again for their Broadway THE WEDDING SINGER REHEARSAL, ERIN Artist Series. The program has been through a lot of ELIZABETH COORS (JULIA SULLIVAN) changes since its inception in the late 60s. Executive Director Dr. Milton Russos has helped organize the se- ries since the beginning. The fi rst show that he recalls was The Lettermen, a harmony group that’s still around today. “It was more concerts [in the beginning]. We also had a celebrity lecture series. I remember Vincent Price…Dr. Joyce Brothers,” says Russos. As the program built up, they started introducing more Broadway-style shows, although they still have a substantial amount of concert-type shows on the docket. They brought the Broadway shows in because musical groups tended to be only as popular as their last album, and they were often booked before it was clear what kind of crowd they were going to bring in. So, for fi nancial stability, they started bringing in sure- fi re Broadway shows. The fi rst show they brought in was Grease. “And they sold out. It was only one night, but it was the fi rst one that we had done. The second year we brought another one in that was called Godspell.”

Before long they were doing four Broadway shows in the series, keeping them in town for fi ve perfor- mances. “In ’86 we did our fi rst week-long engagement and that was Cats and that was…a real milestone for us. Twenty-fi ve thousand people came to see that show…The show sold out and we said ‘Wow! This is what we can really do here.’” Cats will once again be part of the FCCJ Artist Series, though this season it will only be around for three days in June of ’08. This season, as in recent seasons, they’ve selected a blend of old favorites including Cats and newer shows like The Wedding Singer, which is a stage/musical adaptation of the movie of the same name. The season will also include on stage, the Monty Python vehicle Spama- lot, the more serious Camelot (featuring Lou Diamond Phillips), a new Cirque Du Soleil show called Dreams Jungle Fantasy and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, a hit comedic musical about adolescents in a spelling bee. The Jacksonville audience, as far as Russos is concerned, has become more sophisticated over the years. “I’ve watched this evolution over some forty years now and the audiences today are much, much more knowledgeable…” Jacksonville has also sustained shows over a longer period of time than many thought the market would be able to handle. “People had their doubts about The Lion King [asking]—‘Could it do six weeks?’ We felt pretty confi - dent…but there were a lot of Doubting Thomases…Even Phantom, the fi rst time we did it, that was a four week engagement, the concern was could Jacksonville sustain a show for that long? But we discovered, yes…we could.” Subscriber benefi ts include: premium seat location, no waiting in line or on the phone for tickets, ex- clusive exchange privileges, priority ticket purchases, discounts to other Artist Series events and lost ticket insurance. Season ticket holders from the ’07-’08 season will be fi rst in line to guarantee seats to Wicked, when they renew their seats for the 08-09 season. Since Wicked is sure to sell out, this is a great way to get your seats early! Not all tickets to individual shows in the 2007-2008 season are available for purchase at this time. The only way to ensure that you get the exact seat you want, right now, is to buy a season ticket. Season Tickets to 2007-2008 FCCJ Artist Series are on sale now with prices ranging from $110.50 to $297.70. Ticket prices vary according to the show time, day of the week and seating location. Single-show tickets typically go on sale to the general public 6-8 weeks prior to opening night, season ticket holders can buy additional tickets earlier than the general public.

14 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper CATS NATIONAL TOUR

photo by joan marcus

Current subscribers should already have a re- newal order form for this season, sent by mail. New subscriptions may be ordered over the phone by 2007-2008 FCCJ Artist calling (904) 632-3373 or 1-888-860-BWAY Monday through Friday, 10 am to 5 pm, by fax at 1-800-535- Series Dates 2929 or online at artistseries.fccj.org . THE WEDDING SINGER November 6-11, 2007 TH TEST DRIVE YOUR SEATS! THE 25 ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELL- December 21-23, 2007 In addition to purchasing Season Tickets, ING BEE Broadway subscribers will have the opportunity to CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY January purchase other Artist Series events including dance, opera, off-Broadway, concerts and family entertain- 15-20, 2008 ment at the “Test Drive Your Seats” event. At this event, you can come to the actual theater and sit MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT February 19- in the seats that are available for sale, in order to 24, 2008 “test drive” the seat personally. It also gives current subscribers the opportunity to pick up their ticket Lou Diamond Phillips Starring in packets and try out their seats to make sure they are satisfi ed with the exact location. The event will be LERNER AND LOEWE’S CAMELOT April 22-27, held at the Times Union Center’s Moran Theatre on 2008 Wednesday, Sept. 12th from 10 am to 6 pm. Register for a chance to win a pair of Season Tickets to the Subscriber Special Broadway Series as well as gift certifi cates for Publix and Morton’s Steakhouse and other prizes. Lite 96.1 BILL COSBY April 12, 2008 will also be on location with music and prizes from June 27-29, 2008 11:30 am – 1 pm. CATS

CAROL ROSEGG courtesy of cirque dreams jungle fantasy

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 15 dish. where to eat, drink and be merry.

citrrus duckling st. augustine european bistro experience Cortessés Bistro and Flamingo Room

BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected]

Just across the street from the merry-go-round on San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine is a jewel of a restaurant called Cortessés Bistro. We entered from the side, into a charming garden patio with vines and a fountain. Tiled, comfortable looking built-in booths serve as most of the seating, rather than the standard lawn furniture sets you’ll fi nd in most restaurants’ garden seating. Inside and out, Cortessés takes garden elegance to the next level. You can also be seated with a garden view inside, where the sunny yellow fl owers in the vases contrast the cobalt blue glasses and the crisp, white tablecloths. It’s a very St. Augustine kind of place, with a sense of age (because it’s in a late nineteenth century house) and the garden elegance that mirrors little European bistros. Not every table has a romantic view (though most do), so if you’re going there for an anniversary dinner, make sure you request a garden view or let the staff know in advance. If you’re of the mind to drink your meal instead of Burrito Gallery’s eating it, there’s always Cortessés Flamingo Room, which Cheese Quesadillas offers a great atmosphere as well as a good selection of wines and specialty martinis. Among the interesting martini selections is the Red Delicious, which is reported pages 16 - 17 cortessés restaurant to taste like an alcoholic version of its apple namesake. With regular entertainment, stiff drinks and tons of page 17 ghetto gourmet | page 18 old town drinkin’ atmosphere, the Flamingo room is considered to be the best bar in St. Augustine by many locals. Cortessés encourages intimate dining because the main restaurant is really a house and is broken up

16 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper into different sections or rooms. We sat in a room with walls of green and murals of images stolen from Renaissance artists in love with Greek and Roman deities. Because Cortessés is sectioned, you’ll have a fairly quiet meal, without a lot of noise and hubbub, even if they’re fully booked. Their reasonably priced Sunday Champagne Jazz Brunches do draw a crowd. Selections range in price from a $9 vegetarian omelet to a $14 seafood crepe. Each meal comes with a complimentary glass of ghetto champagne, mimosa, bellini or poinsettia. Though fi ne dining is the watchword of Cortessés, they’re also known for their burgers. Artichoke fans will also love their house specialty, artichoke soup, one item that often brings patrons back. In a nod toward local St. Augustine cuisine, one of the entrée selections is Minorcan Stew. gourmet key lime pie eating out for less than $20 by jon and cassie

No, we’re not talking about restaurants in the inner city, we’re talking about trying to get a bite to eat without going broke! Eating out seems to be a riskier undertaking every year. The prices keep getting higher, foods keep getting more processed, contamination is out of control and atmosphere seems like too much to ask for these days. My wife and I love food. Although I certainly show it more than she does, she actually was a chef for a prominent caterer in town for a few years. I have always had an adventurous palate and am also a rather good cook. We adore great food. We’re not poor, but we do eat out too much. Who doesn’t? It is so much easier to just go up the street and order that bizarre craving you have than it is to go to the grocery store, buy the ingredients you need, dirty your pots and pans and dishes, then clean it all up after you’re fi nally fat and happy. So we probably eat out at least twice a week. Recently we’ve noticed that were averaging $40 per meal. A good deal of that bill is because we tend to get a glass of wine with our meal or maybe a cocktail afterward, but no matter what the cause, if we wanted to eat out two to three times a week, it just wasn’t realistic to drop $120 on casual dining. Hell, we could eat at Matthews every Friday instead of going to Mossfi re and Mongo’s in a week. If you meet Cortessés owner, Michael Smyth, you’ll know it because of his unmistakable Irish brogue. He’s a native of Ireland with international experience in the restaurant industry, from Hawaii to Australia So we decided to try an experiment and see if the two of us can satisfy our taste for the and London to Las Vegas. It was in Vegas that Smyth owned The Aristocrat, which received accolades as out-of-home culinary experience for $20. Not per person, together. Given this atrocious economy one of the top gourmet restaurants in the city. St. Augustine, luckily, stole him away and he’s been part of we’re living in, everyone is a little tight for cash. So what local eateries provide menu items that the gourmet establishment ever since. The place has won local awards from the fashionable Taste of St. Augustine, as well as fi rst prize in the Great Chowder Debate. can feed two people for $20? We began our Cortessés dining experience with their fried oyster appetizer. The oysters were both Before we go any further in this fi rst installment of Ghetto Gourmet, it is important to us tender and plump, lovingly encased in fried goodness, served on a bed of fried spinach with a creamy and that you understand that when we say $20 is our ceiling, we are not counting gratuity. We are slightly spicy sauce. The fried spinach both contrasted and supported the various fl avors and textures of the dish, which was well executed overall. The leaves were fried just enough to lend them a slightly papery striving for a bill that is $20 or below, but we always tip at least 20%. Unfortunately for our server, texture, bringing out a full, robust fl avor. My only complaint was that there was an excess of oil used to fry the that still means we’re only a $4 table, but if their service is exemplary, we’ve been known to tip spinach, and it was a little much for me, particularly with the creamy hollandaise that accompanied it. Still, it was a lovely appetizer, one that will remain in my memory and will be ordered again. as high as 50%. Don’t be afraid of treating your server well. A good server can make a dining Other appetizers on the menu include their homemade crab cakes, served with a lemon aioli, dill- experience and a bad server can ruin a restaurant for you forever. But there is nothing better peppered salmon and a seafood crepe. Next time I’ll be ordering the imported brie, which is wrapped in a puff than a server that knows you tip well and there is no better way to be certain that the money you pastry and served with fruit and a lingonberry sauce for dipping. There’s an entrée for nearly every palate on the menu, from fi let mignon and pork tenderloin to various spend stays inside of our local economy. Because servers spend your tips on alcohol in local pasta-based dishes. Since I haven’t indulged in duck in a while, I chose the citrus duckling. It’s slow roasted, bars and drugs from local dealers. I’m kidding, they all spend their money investing stock in brushed with a Szechuan-style glaze and served with mandarin oranges. Some duck presentations lean more towards very sweet, which I don’t mind, but this one had a nice balance of sweet and savory. I loved the locally owned companies. addition of mandarin oranges, which gave the dish more color and fl air. Throughout the course of this experiment we hope to fi nd some truly delectable cuisine at Desserts here are classic and traditional, with selections such as crème brûlée, tiramisu and some of North Florida’s best restaurants, but we feel that it is probably better to start simple. First cheesecake. All of the desserts are prepared in-house. I stole a few bites of my husband’s lush chocolate cake and enjoyed a genuine key lime pie. The whipped cream, is lovely here, not really sweet, but piled atop we had to fi nd out how realistic this project was. So day one: Subway. or beside lush and sweet desserts, letting the creamy contrast add to the experience of the dessert. A good Without a plum line to measure against, it is hard to determine what good value really is. whipped cream isn’t weighed down by sweetness, and Cortessés gets it right. By making our fi rst stop Subway, we can parallel what we eat at other restaurants in the future against the true cost of food we buy everyday. Cassie ordered a 6-inch Subway Melt on wheat with some Sun Chips and a tea and I ordered a 12-inch Spicy Italian on Italian herb bread with Doritos and a root beer.

Our total was $15.49.

Eating for $20 is certain to be a challenge in real restaurants when it is barely possible in a fast food restaurant, but at the same time that shows you how much money we waste when we think we are eating cheap. Cassie and I hope to prove in the next six months that you could get much better, healthier food in a real restaurant than you can in a fast food joint that claims to be cheap. Eat well, eat cheap!

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 17 on the walls, but the décor is divided by the tie-dye tapestry, a biker bar subtext, and the usual honky another old town beer neons. Nonetheless, you haven’t done St. Augustine until you’ve done the St. George Tavern. THE BRITISH PUB

Address or Directions: 213 Anastasia Blvd. pub crawl (st. augustine) Type of Place: Exactly what the name states Imported draft beers (plus Miller Lite and by johnny st. thomas Serving: Yeungling), draft cider and all sorts of bottled beers. They Drinking it up in the old city is like second nature to me. I tried to rally our crack team of professional also serve a delectable traditional sausage roll wrapped in drinkers to come and drink through St. Augustine with me, and the original plan was to go down to the a fl aky pastry and scotch eggs. haunted bars tour, but all of that fell apart. St. Augustine is a long drive and you can’t just go out there, Atmosphere: It’s a delightful hole with walls coated in get tanked and drive home, obviously. So you have to have a strategy. Fortunately I have family in St. “football” jerseys and British memorabilia. Dave, the Augustine. They probably think I’m a raging alcoholic since they only see me when I’m hungover on proprietor, makes every Yank feel like a fellow Brit. their couch, but I’m sure they’re learning to cope. Fortunately for you, there are plenty of inexpensive Amenities: An Internet juke box, a dart board and a small hotels in St. Augustine. Book a room at the Budget Inn on Anastasia Island and then spend the evening stage for performers. getting drunk enough that you don’t care where you sleep. I have a lot of favorite places to drink in St. Happy hour is Mon-Fri, 4- 7 pm. $6 A, but here are a couple that are right on the way to the new amphitheatre and one that is an absolute Drink Specials: staple. Cheers! pitchers during the game on Monday nights. Thursday nights, from 11-midnight, ladies drink free.

ST. GEORGE’S TAVERN In a real British Publican House you can smoke cigarettes and drink a fi ne pint of Guinness. England’s favorite stout even named The British Pub the offi cial location for the best Guinness in both 2006 and Address or Directions: 116 St. George Street 2007. They have a friendly crowd that slouches over the bar and quips about the differences between Type of Place: THE St. Augustine bar America and St. Augustine over BBC America on the televisions (which was playing some hilarious Serving: Full bar, great imported and domestic drafts. British show called Top Gear). The regulars are an assortment of native St. Augustiners, people that Atmosphere: A bar’s bar. It’s dirty, smoky, and dripping drive from all over town and couples of all ages. Located on Anastasia Island, out-of-towners will with loud, intoxicated, authentically St. Augustine charm. pass it on the way home from the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. They also have delicious European Amenities: Some pinball games, and ATM, the loudest chocolates. juke box in town and a scenic view of historic St. George Street. NOBBY’S SPORTS TAVERN Drink Specials: Their drinks are cheap and their cocktails 10 Anastasia Blvd are stiff. Address or Directions: Type of Place: Sports bar This place earned its stripes as the best bar in St. Serving: Domestic draft beers and domestic and imported bottled beers with a full bar. Augustine. Many nights I’ve left this place certain that Atmosphere: Sports bar all the way. Smoky, slightly intimidating and dirty as hell. Always. it was the best bar in the world, but those nights were Amenities: Several TVs (one big screen) pool tables, Internet juke box, a cigarette machine, some followed by the worst hangovers in the history of drunks. tabletop touch screen games and an outdoor patio. Although their drinks are cheap, don’t be fooled, no matter how cheap they are it is easy to rack up a Specials on cocktails and beer change daily. ridiculous tab after a couple rounds of Jager shots. And that’s a rule you can live by. As for St. George Drink Specials: Tavern, the theme is confused in physical representation. There are coats of arms and medieval swords You know those people that put a sculpture of a scrotum heavy with testicles on the trailer hitch of their gigantic truck? They come here. Nobby’s is their sort of place. Every now and then you’ll come in and there will be a nice person at the bar eager to help you and you might even catch a good rock band, but most of the time the place smells like ancient cigarette smoke and beer farts. Their barrel bar and wood paneling is a quaint concept that they stopped keeping up years ago. But their beers are cheap and their cocktails are stiff if you tip well. So – yin and yang.

18 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Spring and going until Labor Day. During the other parts of the year they would have concerts and festivals and events that would take advantage of the setting. “The Cross & the Sword was designed because St. Augustine was a big family tourist destination. When Disney came in it diverted people away, making us more of a way station than a destination.” But St. Augustine has never been a quitter, and the outdoor play lived on for 32 years. Even after the play’s peak in the 70s, when they were performing to sold out crowds (which meant just over 2,000 people at the time) and the total number of attendees reached 40,000, the community held on to their historical drama during it’s slow decline. “I think there’s a large sentimental connection to the play because the people that grew up here either worked the concession stand or parked cars or were in the cast or went to the outdoor drama when family came to town. The thing about all of those regional historical pageants, the community takes ownership of them and then the production changes through that.” But the trend of having historical outdoor dramas subsided as social sensibilities became more relevant and the accuracy of the history presented came into question. “There were a whole bunch of [historical dramas] that were created and they are all formulaic and broadly brushed as far as history is concerned, social history, particularly, because they were usually written in a very Euro-centric point of view. A lot of these plays were fast and loose with traditional cultures. So a lot of those productions were dated. Times have changed.” Although there is always talk of a new state play and more objective historical dramas, and several have come and gone by local historians and playwrights, a historical drama is not currently on the schedule of events to hit the new stage. “Right now everybody is excited about the Amphi- theatre. Everyone wants to see what will come in here. The Amphitheatre was off the radar for a long time as construction went on. People didn’t forget about it, but they just knew that there wasn’t much going on over here except for what we can do in the parking lot. The farmers market kept people coming back here and the Gamble Rogers Festival has been going on in the lot, so there’s been a lot of awareness of the construction.” After dealing with four years of construction and some political controversies that bubbled up over deci- sions about management, people are just anxious for it to open so they can see what everything old it’s like. Well next weekend, you’ll have your chance when the Blackwater Sol Revue takes the stage, bringing quite possibly the biggest number of headliners to a single ven- ue in St. Augustine in recent is new again history. Not that St. Augustine is new to headlining acts. This may be Tony Joe White’s fi rst trip to the Oldest City, but the new history of the st. augustine we had some hitmakers of our own back in the 60s. amphitheatre by jon bosworth “The fi rst road trip that the Almann Brothers went on, The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is nothing new. At the same time, the spectacle that you will behold the their fi rst stop was the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. I’ve got a friend that has pictures of that. It was in the late next time you attend an event there after the September 2nd grand opening will be something new indeed. The 60s, early 70s. Before that they were just kind of a local band that played around a lot and decided to buy new facilities are now equipped to seat more than 5,000 people in comfortable plastic seats that are elevated some equipment and buy a van or a bus and hit the road. One of their fi rst stops was right here in St. Augus- in a step system so that everyone can see, and then enclosed from behind by a shell and baffl ed on either tine. I’d have liked to be here then,” said Bledsoe. side of the stage to ensure exquisite outdoor acoustics. When you see the facility, you will forget all about Ironically, JJ Grey & Mofro, the headliner of the headliners at the Blackwater Sol Revue, just fi nished what the old St. Augustine Amphitheatre looked like and think you have moved to San Diego or to some far- playing a set of shows with those legends and is now kicking off a tradition of their own at the amphitheatre. away place that actually builds facilities like this for outdoor concerts. St. Augustine is now just such a place. Although this weekend is the grand opening, the attendees won’t be the very fi rst to see the facility. They’ve But the soil under this new amphitheatre has seen its share of entertainment in the past. The land be- had a few events to show it off early. The school system had an event here and the Gamble Rogers Festival took the new stage this year. longs to the State and is leased by the county. It was originally leased by Cross & the Sword when the play “We want to have stuff that tourists can do, but we also want the real people that live here to have was here. The County bought Cross & the Sword out by liquidating some debts they had and then renewed the lease with the State. things they can do within their own community. Having programs here that appeal to local people as well as Tom Bledsoe is the Special Events Manager for St. Johns County. The amphitheatre, the fairgrounds and tourists. Myself, as a tourist, I would rather see something that is local. If I were in Greece or Bangkok, I don’t the equestrian center are all part of the Special Events division of the Parks & Recreation department of St. particularly want to see something that is created for tourists, I want to see how the real people celebrate or Johns County. the real people live. Right now, our promoter is bringing in a big show and it’s worth every bit of the forty “In the capacity of the amphitheatre, I am an operations manager rolled into a general manager.” dollars.” While the initial reaction may be overwhelming, since tickets to events at the old facility were likely far Prior to 1963, the grounds where the amphitheatre is was a part of Anastasia State Park. Cross & the less expensive, given that it was four years ago and a smaller facility with more restrictions, it won’t be long Sword started construction of the amphitheatre in 1963 in preparation for the 400th anniversary of Pedro Menendez’s founding of St. Augustine. The outdoor drama provided 60 performances each year starting in  eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 19  before patrons of the events at the amphitheatre feel the benefi ts vastly outweigh the costs associated with community venue some of the larger concerts. by erin thursby “We have support for this facility at the county level and I think they want to see us succeed. This means making the right investments, paying our bills. At the same time, everyone needs to realize, when you have a startup business, which is exactly what this is, the county is in the entertainment business, and you have to put some money into that business to succeed and it has to be run like a business. There are some people at the administrative level of the county that realize that, but getting the system to work that way is a little more diffi cult.” Do your part, and do yourself a favor, don’t miss this historical event. If the history of the amphitheatre isn’t enough to impress you, then seeing musical legends such as Tony Joe White and Los Lobos ought to make up that difference. This is a night that you won’t forget. blackwater sol revue schedule Sunday, September 2

1 pm - Doors Open 2 pm - The Lee Boys The Amphitheatre serves as more than just a and enjoy an amazing facility, and the beautiful 3 pm - Legendary JCs concert venue in St. Augustine; it’s also an epicenter scenery of Anastasia State Park…” 4:30 pm - Tony Joe White of the St. Augustine and Northeast Florida commu- Outdoor Cinema is popular across the country, 6 pm - Los Lobos nity. but most series are shown in outdoor fi elds, some- 8 pm - JJ Grey & Mofro Winter wonderlands, free cinema nights, high times on large walls. At the amphitheatre, you’ll fi nd school graduations, children’s theatre, cheerleading 3,500 fi xed seats and a canopy that covers the ma- After the show catch more of the Lee Boys at Cafe 11. Go to cafeeleven.com for details. competitions and community based-art events are jority of the audience in case of rain. So, no lugging just some of the other things happening at the am- lawn chairs. phitheatre. As always, the St. Augustine Amphithe- The movie will be central to the Night Owl amphitheatre schedule 2007 atre celebrates St. Augustine’s rich history. A perfect Series, but they won’t be the only attraction at the example is the nature trail down to the historic events. Friday, August 31, 8 pm - Night Owl Cinema - Casablanca (Free) coquina quarry adjacent to the Amphitheatre. “We will feature several area restaurants. Each Sunday, September 2, 2 – 10:30 pm - Blackwater Sol Revue Music Festival Amphitheatre Marketing Director, Ryan Dettra, event will be paired with activities that match the Friday, September 14, 8 pm - Night Owl Cinema - E.T. (the Extra Terrestrial) (Free) says they’ve “been redone with new walkways, a theme of the movie. For we will have Casablanca Friday, September 28, 8 pm - Night Owl Cinema - The Sand Lot (Free) dock on the water [and] picnic benches.” Anyone skytracker lights and classic cars.” , 8 pm - Night Owl Cinema - (Free) can take a self-guided tour of the nature trails when Parking is now free for the Night Owl Series. Friday, October 12 Jurassic Park , 7 pm - The United States Air Force Band (Free) visiting the new amphitheatre, so check them out Monday, October 15 while you’re there for one of the following events or Night Owl Cinema Schedule Friday, October 26, 7:30 & 9:30 pm - Halloween Double Feature with a Haunted Hay Ride, Costume for a big show. Casablanca Friday, August 31st @ 8 pm Contest & Games E.T. Friday, September 2nd @ 8 pm 7:30 Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events holiday events The Sand Lot Friday, September 28th @ 8 pm 9:30 The Shining Jurassic Park Friday, October 12th @ 8 pm Friday, November 9, 8 pm - Night Owl Cinema - Raiders of the Lost Arc (Free) Dettra is excited about these “off-stage” Saturday, November 17, 10 am – 6 pm - Diamond Cheer & Dance Cheerleading Competition (Free) events, particularly the stuff they have planned for old city farmer’s market Wednesday, Nov 21, 8 pm - Night Owl Cinema - Elf (Free) the holiday season, such as the Winter Wonderland Saturday, December 8, 7 pm - The Flight Before Christmas - Aire Traffi c - a unique blend of original jazz event. There will be a 50-foot by 70-foot ice rink Each Saturday morning, rain or shine from and written and performed by air traffi c controllers. Using aviation as an inspiration in writing, on the stage that will extend over the orchestra pit, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm, the St. Augustine Amphithe- producing, and performing their music, the current eight-member band continues to entertain while rais- lighted nature trails, a holiday shopping village, fi re atre parking lot is home to the Old City Farmer’s pits for s’mores, caroling and holiday theatricals. Market. The Market has been around for about 10 ing money to fi ght cancer. The amphitheatre will hold ice-skating lessons years and fi rst opened in October of ’97 with about Friday, November 23 – Sunday, January 6 - “Winter Wonderland” - Free to visit, $8 to skate during the day and ice skating at night. It will cost eight vendors. * Ice skating rink only $8 to skate. Market Manager Lynn Wettach has watched * Children’s story book readings The Winter Wonderland will also have small elf the market grow to about 30-35 vendors in the * Elf village houses, built by locals. summer season and about 40-50 vendors in the * Lighted nature trails “We are having a competition among home- winter. * Smores on an open fi re builders to build the best elf house. Creative freedom “We like to help local entrepreneurs…that can * Santa is encouraged. Winter Wonderland will be unique offer something unique to the market,” says Wet- * Holiday shopping to our community. It’s a chance for community tach. members to participate in creating the vision versus Produce, freshly baked bread, plants, food, being told what the vision is,” says Dettra. jewelry and more can all be found at this small Some local architects are already signed market. All of the vendors are from Florida and most up to build elf homes, but Dettra is still accepting are from Northeast Florida. Produce vendors in the entries. Just email him at [email protected].fl .us market are required to grow everything they sell, so for more info on entering. Everyone visiting Winter if you ask a fruit or veggie vendor about their prod- Wonderland will have the chance to vote on the best uct, they’ll be able to tell you about all the conditions elf house. From November 23rd to January 6th, the Elf in which the produce was grown. Village will be open to the public. Kristina Bohrn of the Bent Noodle has been That’s not all. There are rumors about sled- part of the market for about 3 months, selling dried ding, and, according to Dettra, “Believe it or not it gourmet pastas in a variety of colors and forms. will snow every night at 9 pm.” The pastas are, according to Bohrn “all natural, preservative-free pastas …for one, made with a night owl series durum wheat fl our.” Unique fl avors, such as Sweet Potato, Jalapeno and even Dark Chocolate make this Free. It’s a great word. If you want to take your an intriguing booth for the adventurous cook. family down to St. Augustine for a free movie on a 32-foot screen, you might want to check out the For more info on upcoming events happening at the amphitheatre’s Night Owl Cinema Series. St. Augustine Amphitheatre, go to staugamphithe- Says Dettra, “It’s a chance for people to come atre.com.

20 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper St. Augustine Amphitheatre back in 1968 or so. In a perfect historical cycle, the Almann Brothers were once a local band on their way into music history and they launched that journey from the stage of the amphitheatre, so JJ Grey & Mofro are starting a new musical tradition upon a new stage in the same spot. “We just opened up for [The Almann Brothers] for four shows and that makes it even better for me and for the festival. That’s great.” If JJ Grey could put together his jj grey’s dream lineup for an event like this, who would he select? “Tony Joe White, I mean, he’s the original.” JJ fi rst met Tony Joe White while he dream was working on the Blackwater album. “I did grow up with Tony Joe White, but I had no idea it was him. He wrote ‘Polk Salad Annie’ and ‘Rainy Night in Georgia,’ and I heard Brook Benton and Elvis doing his songs, but I didn’t know it come true was him. He’s the best.” If one legend wasn’t enough, JJ also got Los Lobos to come to town for the fest. JJ and the band recently toured with them in Europe. tony joe white “It was pretty wild. It was great blackwater sol revue watching Los Lobos play every night. by jon bosworth Those guys are phenomenal.” Add these acts to the up-and-comers like JJ Grey & Mofro, The Lee Boys, the Legendary JCs and If JJ Grey got a minute off tour, he’d go to Disney World. That might seem unusual coming from locals that include Willie Green and Will Conner, and you have one hell of a Sol Revue with terrifi c music a man that once sang “Building sub-divisions while the swamps are drained, makin’ room for people benefi ting a terrifi c cause – the protection of the St. John’s River. When asked if we could expect this to be and amusement parks. It’s like watching someone you love die slowly.” Those are lyrics from the song an annual event, JJ replied: ‘Florida’ on Mofro’s Blackwater album, so you can imagine my surprise when I called him for an interview “I hope so. I say that because it is risky to try to put something on. It’s all up to whether people have and he was at Disney World. the time and the inclination to go. With the support that [Mofro] had alone in North Florida, I feel that it will “I would normally not [go to Disney World], no. This is for the kids,” JJ laughed. be [an annual event].” As he’s talking to me, there are loudspeaker announcements coming through the phone. I can visual- And as for the primo new facilities, you’ll just have to come and see those for yourself. ize him being carted around in a train with no walls, just rows of plastic pews, being towed from Goofy “It’s beautiful. I was fl oored. I mean, I liked it before and the good thing is that they kept a lot of that #7 to the park by a Mouseketeer. Just another guy at Disney, except this guy is JJ Grey and he’s one same vibe.” southern boy that is making a name for himself through his articulate Florida swamp funk. Check out the Blackwater Sol Revue on September 2nd at the new St. Augustine Amphitheatre. For JJ’s a local boy, and for native Floridians that are under forty, Disney World has always been a part more details go to blackwatersolrevue.com or mofro.net. of our Florida culture, so every now and then he has to swallow hard and take the kids to that Magic King- dom. But we can cut JJ some slack, since he is currently doing more for the environment in Florida than lee boys any other national musician. Blackwater Sol Revue was JJ Grey’s idea. About seven years ago he was driving by the old amphi- theatre in St. Augustine. He’d been turned onto the Gamble Rogers Folk Festival (held at the amphitheatre) by his producer at Retrophonic Studios in Crescent Beach. Once he caught a glimpse of the amphitheatre, he knew he wanted to do a festival there. “I was driving past the old amphitheatre, where they did Cross & the Sword, and the Gamble Rogers Folk Festival was done there, so I rode in to look at it and saw they had started renovating it. I said that as soon as they got that done, we gotta put something on there,” JJ said between children’s screams of joy in the distance. And doing the festival for local environmental organizations was always part of that plan. “I’ve seen [The Riverkeeper] putting up a struggle, and I saw a documentary on television that they put together that was phenomenal. They are getting things done. They’re picking some good battles and they’re winning. That means they are ready to roll up their sleeves and go in there and make it happen rather than throw up a quick fuss about it and then sort of dissipate. And it’s right at home. There’s noth- ing wrong with groups that are fi ghting battles in other parts of the world, but it’s good to start right in your own back yard, and they are doing great, so it was a no-brainer.” A soul revue was a show back in the days of Motown and Stack Records where Booker T & the MGs would be the house band and four or fi ve different singers would get up and do sets. The group of musi- cians he’s selected to perform in this festival represent a different kind of soul music than those Motown performers. “To me, soul ain’t a genre.” The Almann Brothers played the fi rst gig on their fi rst offi cial tour at the then-newly-opened original

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 21 live music crazy like a wolf shows calendar interview with Los Lobos THURSDAY, AUGUST 30 Pianist Tim Nold Seawalk Hotel, Jax Beach (249-9981) BY JON BOSWORTH [email protected] Open Mic w/Colleen Murphy Trade Winds Lounge, St. Even if you’ve never heard a single song by LP: No. Steve is the new guy Augustine (829-8646) them, there is no way you have never heard of Los and he’s been with us twenty- Ron Perry Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) Lobos. Did you see the movie La Bamba? That fi ve years. Chuck Nash My Place, Jax (737-5299) wasn’t Lou Diamond Phillips singing the 60s hit, it EU: Yeah, I’ve been meaning was Los Lobos. Have you seen the cult hit fi lm Big Engine Box Seats, Jax (908-7328) Des- to ask you about that, are you perado by Robert Rodriguez? Los Lobos scored that sure Steve Berlin is a Latino Overtime Sports Bar Open Mic w/Krank Shaft , Jax (786-5466) fi lm. name? Mike Sweet & Friends Kingshead Pub, St. Augustine In addition to being the poster child rock band LP: (Laughing) It depends on how you pronounce it, record and all that crazy band of the year stuff from Blistur Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) of a new America where the largest minority is Latin I guess. During the early years of playing the Holly- Rolling Stone, we thought a lot of other bands would Americans, Los Lobos is one of the longest running Park Street Band Ragusa, Jax (443-7888) wood clubs and the basement punk rock joints of the come through but nothing much really happened. Ev- acts currently touring. Originally from East LA, they early eighties, Steve started moonlighting with us and erything just kind of took on its own natural progres- Big Al & the Kaholics Cheers, Mandarin (262-4337) started out as a group of Chicano musicians that all we eventually got him to be full time. But, yeah, it’s sion. There are bands over the past ten years now Joe T. Hames London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) went to high school together and played in various just been the four of us since 1973. that are doing a lot of things. Not necessarily emulat- Sidewalk 65 The Twisted Martini, Ponte Vedra Beach Chicano punk rock bands. In the late seventies they ing us, but I’m thinking more inspired by us. By our

XBXRX Tsi, Jax (635-3024) got together and their lineup has barely changed EU: How did you fi rst meet JJ Grey & Mofro? tenacity and our willingness to challenge what people since. Eleven years later, in 1983, they got signed to We met him in Europe. He was on the bill with expect to come from a Chicano band from East LA. Sweet Little Ditty Spare Time, Jax Beach (246-8099) LP: a label and Rolling Stone named them Band of the us for about seven out of eighteen shows we did in Bands are doing a lot of different things. There’s a Andy Haney The Surf, Fernandina Year. Europe, in May and April. We were there for three and band called Quetzal that’s from East LA and there’s Mariachi Guadalajara Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) In the subsequent 24 years they have released half weeks and that’s where we met him and kind of Ozomatli, which is a mix of hip-hop and Latin jazz Boogie Freaks Square One, Jax (306-9004) more than 8 full length albums. Los Lobos is legend- clicked. and everything else. They’ve been successful do- ary. How many Mexican-Americans from East LA ing that. Those are just a few. There are bands from David Milam Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove Springs (230-9670) fi nd themselves touring the world with a rock band EU: So you’re probably not nervous about play- Mexico as well. Casa te Cuba is doing some really during late middle-age? But, to utilize a stereotype, incredible things. They were a punk rock band that Mid Life Crisis The Plaza, St. Augustine ing in a redneck town with a bunch of grass roots they have a Mexican work ethic. They tour like crazy southern bands? over the years has been including traditional Mexican Fly’s Tie Irish Pub Wes Cobb , Atlantic Beach (246-4293) and they never quit. EU caught up Louie Perez, song- LP: Oh no. No. As a matter of fact some of our earli- music as well. There’s a lot of cool shit out there. Mouths of Lions Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) writer, percussionist, and guitarist for Los Lobos. est shows were in the South. In Atlanta and Birming- Cornerstone The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) ham, . Something unusual happens when EU: Why “The Wolf?” Ron Rodriguez Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) EU: I noticed you guys are coming all the way down music is introduced in the mix between humans. LP: It started off as a joke, Los Lobos, there’s a thing to Florida, playing this festival, and then your next There’s something, a commonality. We’ve never re- with Mexican bands always naming themselves after 3 Eddie Bahamas, Jax Beach (241-3138) date is a week later up in Nevada. Are you guys ally experienced any weird stuff on the road. We’ve animals, so we picked Los Lobos as a joke but then Little Green Men West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) going to hang out on the beach for a week? been real fortunate. it just stuck around. Then it became something more One Last Shot At Failure Fuel, Jax (425-3835) LP: Oh yeah, right. (Laughing) No fun allowed. The symbolic. A wolf is an incredibly misunderstood ani- Mystic Dino Reefers, Jax (737-6300) only fun in rock and roll is the two hours on stage. EU: As trailblazers in the Mexican-American rock mal. (Laughs) Which can apply. No, we’re going to go home for a little bit. We’ve Ace Winn The Melting Pot, Jax circuit and the Chicano punk thing, have you seen been working like crazy. The only break we had was any young Latino rock bands that are following in Now these legends join some other legendary Freeze Frame Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) in June and the only reason we took June off was your footsteps? Are there people that we should players at the Blackwater Sol Revue concert at the Mr. Natural Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198) because David was expecting his fi rst grandchild, look out for? I know there will never be a next Los new St. Augustine Amphitheatre so that you can see Target X Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) so we’ve been working like crazy and we will pretty Lobos, but are there some bands that are following them live. To fi nd out how Los Lobos feels about the much be on the road until December. Bob Fraioli Casablanca Martini Bar, St. Augustine in the same path in some way? A band that you immigration hot topic, Robert Rodriguez, soul mu- might have paved the way for? sic, and being punk rock grandparents, check out Those Guys The Oasis, St. Augustine (471-3424) EU: Has there ever been a lineup change? LP: Good question. When we broke in 1983 with a the entire interview at eujacksonville.com. Dana Salmela The Nest, St. Augustine (827-0990)

Von Barlow’s Jazz Journey Springfi eld Station, Jax

Silver Lake Drive Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

Matt Collins Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515)

John Winters Kingfi sh Grille, St. Augustine (824-2111)

Go Ask Alice Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877)

Stu Weaver Coffee Roasters, Jax

Bucky Covington Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473)

De Lions of Jah Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453)

THURSDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 30- SEPTEMBER 2 The Committee A1A Aleworks, St. Augustine (829-2977)

FRIDAY, AUGUST 31 Nate Holley Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955)

Gator Country Concert-Mark Wills, Cole Deggs The Landing, Jax

Stone Sour Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473)

The Rig Casa Monica Hotel, St. Augustine

Anastasia Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515)

Roseline Spare Time, Jax Beach (246-8099)

Ted Adams, Don Durkee, Frank Capek Casablanca Martini

22 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Bar, St. Augustine

Mike Gottuso Seven Bridges, Jax (997-1999) songwriting Chasing Yesterday Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Reggie Lee The Surf, Fernandina

Kenhe The Homestead, Jax Beach

Chris Tyler Band Brewsters Pub, Jax (223-9850)

Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine (824-9317) excellence Laurel Lee Springfi eld Station, Jax Dana Salmela Café Centro, St. Augustine Korby Lenker live at European Jager Dave On the Rocks, Jax (685-5268) David Milam Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove Springs Street Crystal Bessels Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) Normal Town West Inn, Jax (389-1131) BY RICK GRANT [email protected] Matt Collins Pauly’s Pizza, Jax (727-9101) Musiq Soulchild Florida Theatre, Jax Korby Lenker ambled into European Street for his fi rst gig in Florida with his Martin guitar and a Abetting Royetta Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) head full of catchy songs. These songs kept my at- Big Al & the Kaholics Monkey’s Uncle, Jax Beach (246-1070) tention from opening to encore. Korby has a charm- Yankee Slickers Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) ing persona, on and off-stage. He fl ashes a quick Dot Wilder Jazz Village Café, Jax (389-3995) smile with an eclectic repertoire of bluegrass-infl u- enced original songs. Ron Rodriguez & the Repeat Offenders Tijuana Flats, Jax (737-9938) From his small-town roots as the son of a mor- tician in southern Idaho, Korby studied music theory Ace Winn Copelands, Jax at Western Washington University. After a period of Lovechunk Jack’s BBQ, St. Augustine disillusionment, Korby set out to explore bluegrass Louder Tahhan Eleven Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884) music, learning to fl at pick like Doc Watson and Nor- American Attitude Yesterdays, Jax (387-0502) man Blake. This was a fertile time for Korby. He joined Dirty Little Rabbit Plush, Jax (743-1845) bands and played out as much as possible, all the Weed Blade, Space Bop TSI, Jax (635-3024) while writing songs that defi ed categorization. His big Jay Calvert Crazy Horse Saloon, Orange Park break was when he was invited to play the Mountain Big Engine Michelle’s, Jax (353-0002) Music Lounge. From those MML performances, of- The Showdown, Second Thief Murray Hill Theatre, Jax fers poured in to open for Ray LaMontagne, Keith (388-7807) Urban, and Nickel Creek. This gave Korby an oppor- forms his songs is seductive, bringing his audience week and still sound great. tunity for massive exposure. into his songwriting consciousness. His song ‘Wan- “Come closer,” Korby sings. “I want to hear Jenna Metro The Nest, St. Augustine (827-0990) your heartbeat..” Yeah, baby! Several solo albums followed, leading up to dered out too Far’ is another introspective love ballad Yankee Slickers Ocean 60, Jax Beach (247-0060) Korby’s crown achievement, winning the Merlefest that touches the listener’s heart, but avoids gushing 750 Muzik Seawalk Hotel, Jax Beach songwriting contest this year, which got him an open- sentimentality. He sings it with convincing emotional David Shaw Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829-8333) ing slot for Elvis Costello. Shortly thereafter, Kirby angst, defi ning love and pain as synonymous terms. Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Cliff’s, Jax Beach (249-2777) signed with Circle Back Music and recorded King “Send me an angel of mercy,” Korby pleaded with of Hearts, which won accolades from radio sta- soulful grace, taking his audience on his musical tion KEXP and BBC Radio 2. Somewhere out there, journey to the promised land of hope and joy. FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 31- “There’s a red hot fever in my head,” Korby Korby’s music is on the air. SEPTEMBER 1 Of course, the test of any singer/songwriter’s crooned with his magnetic aura of voice and guitar. star power is his/her performance skills and the Yes, he had me on the fi rst song, but as I listened to Us Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-9336) quality of his/her material. Korby has both of those his material it “buzzed me like a guitar string ready Blistur CD Release The Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) benchmarks covered. He’s a passionate performer to break.” Korby’s clever lyrics combined with his Pili Pili Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) moving and grooving with the music. His vocal style intricate melodies and surprise modulations caught The Company Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) is a low raspy voice that is loaded with emotional me in the diaphragm. Wow, this cat is on his way to verve. His voice sounds like Bruce Springsteen when glory as a major folk performer. Dueling Pianos Dick’s Wings/Tinseltown, Jax he sings haunting ballads like Secret Garden. Indeed, Korby passed the true test of an art- Skytrain New Neighborhood Tavern, Jax (721-5087) On Korby’s catchy ‘Papercuts’ he sings of ists’ greatness, that is his ability to deliver his songs Wes Cobb Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) love’s mystery “I love you, I hate you...it’s not worth with just his voice and acoustic guitar with the same Al Naturale Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877) the worry...it’s only love.” This stunning song begs to emotional effect as his recorded material. I’ll pop be listened to again and again. The way Korby per- his CD into my car stereo and it will stay there for a Lisa & the Madhatters Players Grille, Orange Park (264-4633) Boogie Freaks Fionn MacCool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499)

ReZist Overtime Sports Bar, Jax

Deron Baker Trio Kingfi sh Grill, St. Augustine

The Ride Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198)

Don David Trio The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329)

Ruckus Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162)

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 31- SEPTEMBER 2 Best of Florida Bluegrass Reunion Dixieland Music Park, Waldo

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Freeze Frame, Hipp Street The Landing, Jax

Robby Schenck Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551)

Oscar Barnett Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515)

JW Gilmore Blues Pizza Garden, St. Augustine

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 23 Heavenly Noise, Daisy, Batsauce Starlite Café, Jax (356-4444) live, the adrenaline is pumping and we get into the groove, feeding off the audience. But we are very Green Lemon Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) pleased with how the album came out. My Own Sin Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) cole deggs interview Mr. Natural Monkey’s Uncle, Mandarin (260-1349) EU: How is playing with your brother working out? Within A Ruptured Heart Club Bliss, Jax BY RICK GRANT [email protected] CD: Shade and I have been working together for many years, bouncing ideas off one another. We Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Conch House, St. Augustine (829-8646) WHO: Cole Deggs and the Lonesome Cole Deggs: Thanks for the positive comments on tried to put a band together in Texas, but it didn’t The Roadshow Killers Landshark Café, Atlantic Beach (246-6024) WHERE: Jacksonville Landing our album, we were lucky to have the very best work out. Then we decided to pack our bags and Chris Tyler Band River City Brewing Company, Jax (398-2299) WHEN: August 31st engineers working on the studio album. As you move to Nashville to go for it. Of course, it took a lot Grey Market Factory at Eclipse, Jax (387-3582) suggested, when I moved to Nashville, I thought I longer than we expected, but that thirteen years was Sony Music/ Columbia Nashville recently would have a record deal in two years. Man, it was time well spent. Having family on the road is great Jeff Scott & David Luthra The Red Zone, Jax signed Cole Deggs and the Lonesome as their new- a hell of a long night. I had a lot of growing up to do thing, and we get along really well–and that goes for Whaleface, Pray For Reign Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884) est and most promising artist. The fi ve piece band is during that time. Thirteen years later, I fi nally signed the entire band. We all feel blessed to have moved Outpatient The Nest, St. Augustine (827-0990) fronted by Cole Deggs with his brother Shade play- the deal with Columbia. But that was okay, I needed up to this level. We’ve had a great response to our Willie Green CD Release Café Eleven, St. Augustine (460-9311) ing bass. The Wallace brothers, Jimmy and David, that time to play out and grow as a musician and singles on the radio. So that has given us much en- are on keyboards and lead guitar respectively, and Larry Mangum & the Cowboy Orchestra Flamingo Lakes RV songwriter. couragement to keep writing new songs. Resort, Jax Florida native Brian Hayes is on drums. The Deggs brothers grew up in Lake Jackson, The Paradise Band Twisted Martini, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-8810) EU: I noticed in your studio music you seem to Cole Deggs and The Lonesome perform at the Texas and the Wallace brothers hail from Shreveport, have captured a bit of the edge of live performing. Jacksonville Landing with Mark Wills August 31st Strings of Fire Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) Louisiana. For Cole and Shade, signing with Sony/ But I know it’s diffi cult in a studio setting to get which kicks off the 99.9 FM Gator Country Free Con- Kim Delaney Brewsters, Jax (223-9850) Columbia represented the peak of a 13 year career that sound. Do you bring a small audience into the cert Series. The show begins at 8 pm. Is Cole Deggs Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine (824-9317) in Nashville, playing the clubs and pounding the studio to amp up the excitement? and the Lonesome country or Southern rock? See Payton Page Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) pavement with a satchel full of great songs trying to CD: Absolutely. It’s very diffi cult to record a studio what Cole says in the complete interview at eu- impress the decision makers of the various Nashville record that sounds exciting. When we are playing jacksonville.com. Charlie Walker Band Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) record companies. Ember Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) Today I chatted with Cole about his “overnight Stu Weaver Harry’s, Jax Beach (247-8855) success” in a viciously competitive business that free country Open Mic w/Larry Broussard St. Johns Pizza Grill, Jax (287-9900) makes it extremely diffi cult for newcomers to break into the big time milieu. gator country’s fall concert series by rick grant and jon bosworth SATURDAY-SUNDAY, SEPT. 1-2 EU: Hey man, I was just enjoying your songs from Busted & Confused Fleet Reserve, Mayport Gator Country, WGNE-FM 99.9, is throwing a free foot-stomping concert series at the Jacksonville your debut album on Columbia. I was impressed Landing. That by itself should be enough to get local fans to gas up their trucks, but Stevie ‘Fingers’ & Dusty The Zoo, Jax with the mixes on those tunes. I could hear every- Gator is offering more. thing. I particularly enjoyed the pedal steel that “We are not your grandfather’s radio station,” says Gator’s Program Director Jeff Davis. “What SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 dominates the intro on ‘12 Ounces Deep.’ You separates our radio station from the rest is that we are not afraid to play the new songs from Chris guys must have at least fi fteen years of paying Cagle or Mark Wills or other of tomorrow’s superstars. We are more aggressive with playing the newer Blackwater Sol Revue-JJ Grey & Mofro, The Amphitheatre, dues for your ‘overnight success.’ You’ve got the St. Augustine artists and the more established artists as well. We like to be the fi rst radio station to play an artist’s goods to deliver to the people. Los Lobos, Tony Joe White, The Legendary JC’s, Willie Green new song, whether he is or Chris Cagle, then let the audience decide who they like the best.” Sunset Grill Those Guys , St. Augustine (471-5555) Gator Country may seem like the new kid on the block, what with local dinosaurs such as Rooster The Rentals Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) and the Hitkicker, but their unique approach is helping them attract a new listener that wants to hear a Scum of the Earth Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) wider variety of country music. Dan Shepherd Harpoon Louie’s, Jax (389-5631) “We’ve been in the market for two and a half years. So we are not brand new, but let’s say we’ve taken the wrapper off,” said station manager Gary Spurgeon. Poison, Ratt Veterans Arena, Jax The party begins Friday, Aug 31st at 8 pm, with Mark Wills and Cole Deggs and the Lonesome. Flashback Ragtime Tavern, Atlantic Beach Then on September 7th, Steve Holy headlines with Danielle Peck. September 14th features David Lee Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) Murphy and Whiskey Falls. Finally, September 21st, Chris Cagle headlines with Crossin’ Dixon. Regular Isaac Byrd Jr. De Real Ting Café, Jax Gator Country listeners have many chances to win VIP passes and to meet the stars.

Michael Funge Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) “Jeff has a close relationship with the artists so he can bring them to town with a few phone calls,” said Spurgeon. Dana Salmela Café Centro, St. Augustine “We love to bring Nashville’s stars to Jacksonville listeners for free. This time we have an Young Cash Club Christophers, Orange Park incredible lineup and our whole staff can’t wait for the series to get underway. In other words, there’s Drivin’ South The Sandollar, Jax (251-3001) something for country fans of all ages,” added Davis.

JW Gilmore Blues Gypsy Cab Company, St. Augustine The lineup for the new concert series includes stellar artists with established hit albums and singles. Mark Wills brought the number one hits ‘Wish You Were Here’ and ’19 Somethin’,’ while Steve Tarik Hassan Sahara Café, Jax Holy had hits such as ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘Brand New Girlfriend.’ Take this chance to see hit-making David Milam Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) artists before they reach superstar status. Pili Pili Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884) “And again, it’s free!” said Jeff Davis one last time. Jimmy Parrish Carib Key, Jax Beach (270-8940)

Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646)

Spade McQuade Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499)

Nightfall Kingfi sh Grill, St. Augustine

Boogie Freaks Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198)

3rd Bass The Casbah, Jax (981-9966)

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

Jan Crawford & Friends Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

Lee Boy & Friends Afterparty Café Eleven, St. Augustine (460-9311)

SUNDAY-MONDAY, SEPT. 2-3 Southbound Trucker GQ’s, Jax

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Joey Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

24 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Charlie Walker Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) to survive the 90s. In 1996, Ratt put together what Wild Card The Landing, Jax turned out to be their fi rst attempt at a reunion with members Pearcy, DeMartini, Blotzer and new mem- Sam Pacetti The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) ber Robbie Crane on bass. They released Collage, Lary Smith Harmonious Monks, Jax (886-3040) a collection of B-sides and new versions of songs Mega4orce Gator Landing, Palatka

from the early years (then named Mickey Ratt). In Steve Wheeler Band Tastings, Jax 1999, their luck seemed to fi nd its way back to them with a worldwide record deal with Sony. Leaving Band of Destiny Square One, Jax (306-9004) behind their anthemic sound and trading it in for a Shawn Fisher & the Unknowns Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) more conventional blues-rock vibe. Fans and critics Bush Doctors Kingfi sh Grille, St. Augustine

alike crushed it. Nolan Neal Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Pearcy left the band in 2000 and formed Vi- Tribute To Rod Stewart/Bon Jovi-Kenny Holliday, The Surf, cious Delite and then Nitronic. He moved on to focus Fernandina on his solo work and started his record label Top Fuel Records. Ratt moved along with new vocalist Tribute To Tina Turner By Samira Blinko Jizzy Pearl and continued touring under the name Stu Weaver Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) Ratt, much to Pearcy’s dismay. There was a battle over the name for quite some time. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 All of that has seemingly been placed behind Billy & Vinnie Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach them and they moved forward sprouting rumors (241-8221) of a new CD in the works as well as their fi rst ever Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) DVD and an upcoming European tour. When asked between rock and a As Cities Burn Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) about the lyrical content of the new material, Pearcy responds, “I couldn’t tell ya, because I write with Christina Wagner & Friends Mark’s Downtown, Jax (355-5099) whatever suites me at that moment. I’ve always been Will Pearsall The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) a writer about what I live, see and breathe. It’s not Dave Massey Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) ratt race fantasy and Dungeons and Dragons, or politics, it’s about having a good time or f**kin’ kicking ass… or Rickolus Eclipse, Jax (387-3582) BY CHRISTINA WAGNER just f**king!” Those Guys Hurricane Patty’s, St. Augustine (827-1822) If starting a label, being active in two groups Scenic Void Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

WHO: Ratt with Poison this broad down. and raising a daughter weren’t enough, Pearcy also Ron Perry Fionn MacCool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) With my middle fi nger sternly erect, I continue fi nds time in his borderline Jamaican work schedule WHERE: Veterans Memorial Arena Matt Still Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) WHEN: Sunday, September 2nd on without him, determined to roll out the red carpet to squeeze in a book titled, RaTTails. The status? and to keep this professional, despite our personal “Still working on it. We now have closure. The Out of Hand Palace Saloon, Fernandina Beach When my editor fi rst told me that I would be past. After a semi-comeback attempt a couple of fi nal chapter of this book is this tour. Who knows, Bill Rice Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) doing an interview with from Ratt, I years back at The Marquee Theatre, Ratt returns maybe it isn’t the end of everything, but it’s quite full Mystic Dino Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) fl ipped. My head began spinning and I couldn’t wait to Jacksonville, this time with legendary frontman of…. forget dirt (reference to Motley Crue’s book Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax to make it back home and dive into some Google. Stephen Pearcy, to perform at the Veterans Memorial ‘The Dirt’), it’s mud! And I’ve got photos to back all There I was on a happening Wednesday evening, Arena. of it up. It’s quite an experience. It’s not just about Jimmy Solari My Place, Jax (737-5299) knee-deep in some “Rattical” material, completely This West Coast, self-proclaimed “sleaze met- the rock ‘n roll world, it’s about somebody who was Seth Ramsdill Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) prepared for my hot Thursday phone date, but my al” group started out in the early 80’s, but it wasn’t into something, me into racing, who got introduced Ron Perry Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) until the 1984 hit, ‘Round and Round,’ that they knight in shining armor never called. It was like my to something else. It takes you into that whole trip, El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) sophomore prom all over again. Their breakout clas- really appeared on the map. Ratt has sold an impres- but yet it’s sincere. The book’s been 4 years in the sic, ‘Round and Round’ kept on playing inside my sive 18 million records worldwide, scored #79 on making. It’ll be an interesting read!” Pearcy explains. head as I stared at the sad little hands on the clock VH1’s “100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock” and been Hopefully, for these boys the third time will be TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 4-5 in front of me. through more members than the Pussycat Dolls. a charm as they make their way down to our neck of Gene Nordan Mackenzie’s, Ponte Vedra (543-9143) I waited two traumatic hours before throwing Despite the usual band drama, the boys were the woods and rock our faces off. Pearcy, if you’re in the towel, picking up the remaining pieces and able to pull through and pop out 6 stellar albums reading this, I expect two front row seats, some red WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 trudging home, sans my story. It’s going to take as well as the “greatest hits” cleverly titled Ratt n’ roses, fi ne bourbon and a damn good excuse for something bigger than Mr. Stephen Pearcy to take Roll 81-91, but they weren’t able to hold it together standing me up like that. What would your mother Mr. Beam Casa Marina, Jax Beach (270-0025) Dave Massey My Place, Jax (737-5299)

Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Eddie Bahamas, Jax Beach (241-3138)

FunKtion Brix, Jax Beach

Wes Cobb Band Square One, Jax (306-9004)

Elisabeth Williamson Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113)

Sunchine Jones Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453)

Hurricane Surfers The Pier, St. Augustine

Stu Weaver The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329)

Artwalk-Joe T. Hames London Bridge, Jax (359-0001)

Eric Dawkins Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955)

Jesse & Leaa Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

Jodies Fiasco Castillo de Mexico, Jax

Rebecca Zapen The Casbah, Jax

Soulo Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515)

The Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax (396-3396)

El Toro Loco Aromas, Ponte Vedra (280-2525)

Chuck Nash Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221)

Sidewalk 65 Latitudes, Jax Beach (247-6606)

Pili Pili Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293)

Dave Massey My Place Bar & Grill, Jax (737-5299)

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 25 TANYA KROEBER upcoming shows OPERATIONS MANAGER The big Studio E is set up as a showcase / TOO MANY SHOES concert hall with big Marshall amps, drums on a Teddy Washington Follies Sept. 7, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 riser, professional bass amps with outboard gear, Sarah Geronimo In Motion Sept. 7, Times Union Center, monitors and everything a band would need to just 353-3309 come in with their instruments and fl oor pedals and Lennon Sept. 7, Freebird Live, 246-2473 rehearse or perform a showcase for record company A&R reps or the media. The decor is modern with John Ralston, Kevin Divine Sept. 9, TSI, 424-3531 professional studio sound suppressors. Each studio Dave Matthews Band Sep 11, O’Connell Center, Gainesville, has its own electronic temperature control. Hell, the FL, (352) 392-1653 Rolling Stones could rehearse in this studio–it’s that well-decorated and staged. Valencia Sept. 15, Fuel Coffeehouse Don Ringhofer said he thought about what he Uncle Johns Band (Grateful Dead Tribute) Sept. 16, Freebird Live would want in a rehearsal studio and he spared no expense to make it fi rst class. I was most impressed Sept. 18, Café 11, 469-9311 John Vanderslice by the amount of band equipment that is in each Bruce Bruce Sept. 21, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 studio. Just log-onto the Stay Tuned website (stay- tunedstudios.com) and there is a complete list of Queens of the Stone Age Sept. 21, Plush, 743-1845 equipment in each studio. Trust me, any band would Culture Sept. 21, Freebird Live, 246-2473 not think twice about playing in these studios using this top-tier gear. Clearly, Don has invested mucho The Courtneys Sept. 21, Club TSI dinero in this equipment and facility. He has thought Atreyu Sept. 28, Plush, 743-1845 of everything. Strung Out Sept. 29, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Brand names you’ll fi nd in these studios are top-quality too. Yamaha drum kits, Marshall Unearth Sept. 30, Freebird Live, 246-2473 JCM2000 guitar amps, Marshall cabinets, Vox Fusebox Funk Oct. 5, Freebird Live, 246-2473 AD100 guitar amps, Vox cabinets, Ampeg bass amps and cabinets, Carvin passive mixer, Crown Angie Stone Oct. 6, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 power amps, Crown power monitors and mains as Boys Like Girls Oct. 6, Freebird Live, 246-2473 well as JBL speakers–monitors and mains. Also, there are Fender Hot Rod Deluxe amps, Peavy Valve- Oct. 10, TSI, 424-3531 Bonde Do Role King all tube guitar amps, Gallien Krueger bass amp Sinbad October 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 heads and 4 x 10 cabinets, and Roland keyboards are available with many other choices. Don said they Thee Crucials Oct. 12, Club TSI, 424-3531 also have mobile recording equipment available for Clint Black October 13, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 recording live. Michael Franti & Spearhead Oct. 13, Freebird Live, 246-2473 The fi ve studios are all roomy with comfortable stay tuned studios seating to accommodate family members or fans John Gorka October 13, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 that want to checkout the band. The price scale is Gregg Allman Oct. 14, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 reasonable for each size room. Of course, there are a few rules, like no smoking in the studios. Stay Tuned Dennis DeYoung Oct. 19, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 opening party success Studios is open weekdays Monday through Friday Acoustic Alchemy Oct. 23, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 from 6 pm to midnight and Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to midnight. Oct. 23, Freebird Live, 246-2473 The Samples BY RICK GRANT [email protected] The tour guide for my visit was my friend Tanya MagnoliaFest with Toots & The Maytals, Donna the Buffalo, Years ago, when I owned a recording studio, rehearsal studios I toured were primitive and not very Kroeber who is now Stay Tuned Studios’ Operations Railroad Earth, The Duhks, Bobby Lee Rodgers Band and I had the idea of building rehearsal studios for rent. inviting–like a glorifi ed egg carton-walled facility. Manager and she still plays for Too Many Shoes. more October 25–28, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, However, I had so much money invested in recording Last week I was invited to attend the Stay She tried a Hamer guitar through a Vox amp. Man, Live Oak, Florida, www.magmusic.com equipment, I couldn’t afford to make it happen. Over Tuned Studios grand opening party. Truthfully, my it sounded twangy, for which Vox amps are known. the years, several people have attempted to provide expectations were low until I toured the facility. In the big E Studio, the band C5 was cranking up. Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas and Edgar Meyer Oct. 26, Florida Whoa, the co-owners Don Ringhofer and Joey DeSe- This is a tight professional band which I’ve previ- Theatre, 355-2787 rehearsal spaces for struggling local bands. The last na have set up fi ve fully equipped studios of varying ously lauded in print. It took them ten minutes to set Nada Surf, Sea Wolf October 27, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 sizes that are plushly decorated with leather couch- up and do a sound check, then they were perform- es, a top-of-the-line drum set on a riser in each ing their repertoire of original and cover material. It Monotonix Oct. 28, Club TSI, 424-3531 room, quality amplifi ers and even by Hamer sounded great. Stay Tuned Studios is located near Kings of Leon Oct. 30, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 or Fender. Most bands are not this well-equipped. the Avenue’s Mall off Shad Road at 5570 Florida Dr. Dog, Delta Spirit, Emily Lacy October 30, Cafe Eleven, And, the beauty of this setup is: bands do not have Mining Blvd. South, Unit 105. Call 292-9997 for 469-9311 to drag their equipment into a rehearsal space. Just rental rates and directions. Finally, a truly profes- bring your axes, drum sticks, drum pedals and hi-hat sional rehearsal facility that will impress the most Ben Harper Nov. 1, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 cymbals–a handful of stuff. discriminating musician. I give it an A+. Reverend Horton Heat/Hank Williams III Nov. 1, Freebird Live, 246-2473

David Bazan Nov. 6, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311

Tallyrand Music Festival W/Spoon, Keller Williams, The Bravery, Pepper, Against Me!, The Polyphonic Spress, Rooney and more Nov. 10, Metro Park

Dan Zanes Nov. 10, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

Nickel Creek Nov. 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

Slightly Stoopid Nov. 15, Freebird Live, 246-2473

Zoso Nov. 24, Freebird Live, 246-2473

Wynonna Nov. 30, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

Jethro Tull Dec.11, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

Johnny Winter Dec. 14, Freebird Live, 246-2473

26 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper fi ed as Omega Psi Phi. Whether they were genuine Omega Men or not didn’t matter—the faithful were stage aurora brings it in attendance, as evidenced by the dog woofs in the culture & arts house. And the fi nal team competing was composed AUGUST of the men of Phi, big brothers and pledges alike— impressively choreographed, energetic, and lots of 30 Family Art Fun Argyle Branch Library, Jax fun. And the concluding gospel fi nale that followed 30-SEPT. 1 Brian Edmond Paintings Cultural Center, Ponte home brought down the house. Vedra Beach The play provided an opportunity to showcase 30-SEPT. 1 Exhibit Audrey M. Stultz “I’m Alive” Energy Lab Art some fairly impressive vocalizations, colorful, if Gallery, St. Augustine Frat House: Where Boys Become Men broadly drawn characters, and most of all, stepping. 30-SEPT. 1 “Expected/Unexpected” Exhibit By Daryl Bunn True, the plot was paper thin, with some implausible Jane Gray Gallery, Jax BY ALUN MONTGOMERY twists and far-too easy resolutions that didn’t seem 30-SEPT.2 Tradition in Transition: Russian Icons in the Age of to cost anybody anything. Romanovs Cummer Museum, Jax The tag line in the promos reads: “Where Boys But little of that seems to matter to those in through the nightmare of hazing, doing their best 30-SEPT. 2 City of St. Augustine’s 442nd Birthday Celebration Become Men.” to be accepted and meeting the challenge to come attendance: they were all there to see their friends, Various Venues, St. Augustine Okay, so that may be laying it on a bit thick, but together as a unit. neighbors, classmates, and fellow parishioners 30-SEPT. 2 Smokey Joe’s Café , Jax Northside impresario Darryl Reuben Hall’s labor of Thomas, meanwhile, draws a different mes- engage in some energetic hijinx, and in that respect Alhambra Dinner Theatre love shows he knows his audience. sage from the challenge, looking instead to get in Hall & Company delivered. 30-SEPT 3 The Cabaret of St. Augustine-Spirits Community This past weekend, the veteran actor, dancer, touch with his wild side. So it doesn’t take long The show could benefi t from some judicious School of Performing Arts, St. singer and director brought his latest work, Frat for trouble to fi nd him: he gets drunk, crashes his modulating: slow down or speed up some line de- 30-SEPT. 4 Hurricanes III-Dora The Destroyer Exhibit Beaches House, to the Florida Theater for a two-night engage- fancy sports car, starts failing his classes. And he liveries, tone down the furniture chewing over here, Museum, Jax Beach ment. Playing to a near-capacity crowd, the commu- alienates the people closest to him, girlfriend Kathy space out the cluster of bodies over there. There’s 30-SEPT. 15 Exhibit: Jim Draper – “Produce” Stellers Gallery, nity theater company pitched its contemporary spin (Jessica Chatman) and best friend MC. Not only that, no doubt about it: managing 37 mostly raw perform- Neptune Beach on the prodigal son tale that revealed such far-afi eld but his antics bring unwelcome attention to the Phi ers is a daunting proposition. 30-SEPT. 17 “Lost & Found” Exhibit Women’s Center of infl uences as A Different World, School Daze, Drum house, already under the scrutiny of a city council Still, the production represents an impressive Jacksonville, Jax , and The show was a celebra- greedily eyeing the house for its real estate potential. achievement. It highlights and celebrates an entire Line Stomp the Yard. 30-SEPT. 26 Brad Silverstein Art Exhibition JU Alexander tion of faith and community—the players came to It takes an out-of-control party incident and culture of performance art that exists below the Brest Library, Jax raise the roof and the audience came to help them the death of MC’s beloved grandmother for Thomas radar of the city’s “mainstream” theater, dance, and 30-SEPT. 30 Elemental Atmospheres Paintings By Princess do it. music communities. These performers learn their to hear his wake-up call. He pleads for forgiveness Simpson Rashid MOSH, Jax The production was a checkered success, its from his friends, family and brothers. All is tidily craft in community centers, churches, and schools 30-OCT. 14 381 Days: The Montgomery Bus Boycott Story weaknesses lying mostly with an unfocused script forgiven, and the community rallies to the fraternity’s that keep kids focused on positive life choices, Ritz Theatre, Jax and an uncomfortable mix of comedy and drama. defense just in time to spare them from the villainous inspiring them to provide leadership and inspiration But whatever its shortcomings, you certainly can’t councilmen out to do them in. The house is spared, themselves and to give back the love and support to 30-OCT. 14 Dinosaurs & Ice Age Mammals MOSH, Jax blame it on the performers. Though nearly half of and the frat is free to prepare for their national step- the people who helped them along. 30-FEB. 28 Oh Say Can You See: American Art Cummer Museum, Jax them had never been onstage before, they played ping competition—which seems to be what the play It may be a while before Frat House fi nds its with a commitment and focus that would put many has been working towards. way to Broadway. But everybody had a good time— so-called professionals to shame. And step they do. The competition features the artists, performers, and audience all came together SEPTEMBER The play opens with a spirited Sunday service, local Ladies of O-A-K Step Team, and a team identi- to create an event. That works for me. 1 Experimental Painting with Instructor Kim Barry MOCA, Jax at which Pastor Waller offers as his sermon the les- 1 Nature Photography for a Digital World Zoo, Jax son of The Prodigal—a fi tting send-off for his son 1 Jaguar Pep Rally , Jax Thomas (Desmond Demps), who is headed to col- The Great Lawn lege at prestigious UHBC along with his best friend 1 MactruQue Live Performance Interpretation Ocean 60, Jax Beach MC (Joshua Scarver). The pastor couldn’t be more 1-2 Argentine Tango Workshop UNF, Jax proud; but he can’t help offering a fatherly admoni- 2 Auditions for the Joyful Singers 12:30pm Unitarian tion to stay on the straight and narrow—and avoid Universalist Church, Jax the fraternities at all cost. 5 First Wednesday Art Walk , Jax Thomas resolves to honor his father’s advice, Various Venues/Downtown but the pull of the fraternities is strong, offering pres- 5 Go Figure: Drawing Live Models With Jonathan Lux MOCA, Jax tige, acceptance, and a great way to meet girls. So 5-OCT. 7 Steel Magnolia’s Alhambra Dinner Theatre, Jax it isn’t long before the echoes of his father’s words 6 River City Band Taste The Music Aetna Building, Jax and the strong infl uence of family, church, and com- munity begin to fade away in the face of a fl ood of 6-23 “Criminal Hearts” Limelight Theatre, St. Augusitne temptations. 7 First Friday Art Walk Various Venues, St. Augustine The big brothers of Phi Phi Phi (which most 7 Amateur Night Ritz Theatre, Jax audience members will immediately recognize 7 Jacksonville Follies Awards Show , Jax as a thinly disguised Omega Psi Phi) are familiar Florida Theatre forbidding fellows, and his fellow pledges are a 7 The Vestal On the Rocks Art & Music Showcase Ocean colorful collection of broad (if somewhat cliched) Club, Jax Beach archetypes. Together, the pledges struggle comically 7 Opening Reception-David Ponsler Sculpture Cultural Center, Ponte Vedra

7-29 “Cinderella” Orange Park Community Theatre, Orange Park 8 Delicious Destinations Benefi t Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, Ponte Vedra

8 Canvas of Sound IV MOCA, Jax 8 Grammy Nominee John McCutcheon Flagler Auditorium, St. Augustine

8 Experimental Painting with Instructor Kim Barry MOCA, Jax 8-OCT. 27 Mystery Dinner Theatre Dave & Buster’s, Jax 10 Laurel & Hardy Chapter Meeting Library/Pablo Creek, Jax 11-16 “Shout! The Mod Musical” FCCJ Wilson Center, Jax 13 Auditions: Amateur Night 5-6:15 Ritz Theatre, Jax 14 Opening Reception: Coherent Structures by Carol Prusa MOCA, Jax 14 Dark of the Moon Tour St. Augustine Lighthouse, St. Augustine

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 27 On display at the Stellers Gal- art events lery Annex in Neptune Beach, Draper’s new paintings are NEW THIS WEEK somewhat of a departure from Silverstein Tribute Art Show his signature subject. Palm trees Jacksonville University hosts Silverstein: Retrospective, were (and remain) his primary an exhibition to memorialize Brad Silverstein, professor of subject, yet he is quite adept at painting. Thursday, August 30th from 5 pm to 7 pm capturing a variety of subjects, Alexander Brest Museum and Gallery- Jacksonville University including cows and egrets. In Info: (904) 256-7374 fact, many of his landscape paintings currently on display Art Run at Art Proceeds for this special art auction/sale will go to Kahisha don’t specifi cally call attention to “Kye” Dixon, a runner who is participating in the upcoming the palm tree; instead, they revel Nike Women’s Marathon in San Francisco to support the in the density of this region’s Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. forests. Friday, August 31st at 7 pm In particular, I enjoyed his Art House, San Marco Eden landscapes, somewhat Info: (904) 294-9931 impressionistic works that utilize distinct brushstrokes to create a ArtWalk unique sense of light and color. Wednesday, September 5th at 6 pm What could be more artsy than a Jaguars Pep Rally in The Eden landscapes don’t even attempt to sharply Hemming Plaza? See story on page 12. new paintings by jim draper describe their scenes; they squint for you. They’re 40 locations downtown wonderful, blurry visions of nature that probably come closer to what one might really see than if he ONGOING at the Stellers Gallery Annex tried to capture every small detail. Decades of Styles Modis Building, 1 Independent Drive, Indeed, that element of Draper’s body of work Downtown Admission $12 is what makes it so sophisticated. Too many artists BY DONALD DUSINBERRE [email protected] either try to document nature by obsessing over too Jim Draper: Produce Stellers Gallery Annex, 200 1st Street, Let’s face it: there are countless artists intent There are lots of ways to paint, but there are just as many details or they try to glaze over it with too few. Neptune Beach (904) 247-7200 on painting landscapes and wildlife. Most of them many ways not to paint. The real genius of Draper’s work lies between those are not very good. It’s unfortunate that such natural Really, one must look no further than the work extremes, and it all has to do with the application of Patrons of the Heart Presents: Have a Heart, Take a Seat! beauty can be so thoroughly butchered at the hands of Jim Draper. Draper is among the few artists who paint. You can tell that his brush is loaded with paint Through August 31st . Jacksonville Main Library, 303 N Laura Street, Downtown. 904-202-2881. patronsofthehearts.com of so many incompetent artists, but fortunately for can actually capture the glory of nature and allow and that he applies it with confi dence. There are no us, Jacksonville is home to one of the most accom- us to experience it while indoors. Even photos can’t Bob Ross shortcuts. Desiree Kantrim: The Collection August 2007 plished artists painting landscapes today. do what his paintings can. Concentrating his subject I’ve long tried to determine what it is about Orange Park Library, 2054 Plainfi eld Avenue, Orange Park I can certainly understand the desire to recre- matter primarily on the Southeastern United States, landscapes that bored me so much, and it was an (904) 278-4750 ate beauty, but an artist must really study his/her his paintings of landscapes and animals are among unusual pleasure to view such a great collection of subject to understand what they can do to succeed. the most sophisticated I’ve seen. paintings. The gallery’s staff members were friendly Brian Edmond Paintings Through Saturday, September 1st and inquisitive, and we spent some time comparing Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach, 50 Executive Way, each other’s thoughts and opinions on the display. Ponte Vedra Beach. (904) 280-0614 I don’t often get a chance to discuss my impres- sion as I’m looking at a work of art, as I usually Tradition in Transition: Russian Icons in the Age of the Romanovs Through September 2, 2007 must store all my thoughts until I write them down Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Avenue, in these reviews. Furthermore, it was nice to hear Riverside (904) 356-6857 or cummer.org the thoughtful opinions of someone who genuinely enjoyed landscapes. Lost & Found Through September 17th Between the Cummer’s current display of Women’s Center of Jacksonville, 5644Colcord Avenue, American art and Draper’s exhibition at the Stell- Arlington. 11 am - 3 pm, Monday - Friday ers Gallery Annex, my appreciation for landscape painting has been renewed. Yes, there are countless Art at the Airport: Beginnings: Work by David and paintings that I believe are best suited as tinder, but Kay Olson Through September 28th Haskell Gallery at Jacksonville International Airport, 2400 Yankee Clipper Drive it’s refreshing to know that there really is an artist (904) 741-3546. jiaarts.org capable of continuing the long tradition of landscape painting. Elemental Atmospheres: Paintings by Princess Simpson Check out the work of Jim Draper at the Stell- Rashid Through September 30th The Museum of Science & ers Gallery Annex, 200 First Street in Neptune Beach. History (904) 396-7062 For more information on the Stellers Gallery and their hours of operation, call (904) 247-7200, or visit Photographs by Ingrid Damiani Through November 4th Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Avenue, stellersgallery.com. Riverside (904) 356-6857 or cummer.org

Fogle Fine Art Gallery Presents: Regions Bank Artist Celebration of Jeanne Pelligreno Through November 2007 Regions Bank, 1461 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park

Precious Gifts of Asian Art Through January 2008 Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Avenue, Riverside (904) 356-6857 or cummer.org

Oh Say Can You See: American Art from the West Foundation Collection Through January 2008 Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Avenue, Riverside (904) 356-6857 or cummer.org

Horizons Jewish Community Alliance and Vandroff Gallery, 8505 San Jose Boulevard, Mandarin

Audrey M. Stultz: I’m Alive Energy Lab Art Gallery, 137 King Street, St. Augustine (904) 808-8455

28 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper I was worried that by moving home, I would lose my edge. Moving to Oakland was like embarking on my own vision quest. In an effort to fi nd myself, I shed everything I had once known, besides my beloved boyfriend, and moved across the country. I had no job, a little money, one relative and an adven- ture. It didn’t take me long to realize that my vision may have been slightly skewed when I chose to move to the Bay Area. Sitting in my boss’ offi ce holding crystals and meditating in the middle of a mar- keting meeting to regain my clarity sort of opened my eyes. I’m a weird girl, just not that weird. I didn’t identify with the constant yoga, alfalfa sprouts and tarot cards, but I did grow a great deal out there. For one, I learned how much home really meant to me, and what that word meant to me. Home is not where you lay your hat; it truly is where you leave your heart. And mine was not in Califor- nia. But as we said goodbye to California passing through the southeastern edge of the Mojave Desert, I worried I might be leaving behind more than just a place and some memories. Was it possible that I could be leaving behind the wisdom I had gained, this new person I had become? By moving home, was I really just moving back? Once, during a visit back to Florida before the big move, it occurred to me that my friends at home only saw the person I had left behind. This was the person they had known for years. They had seen me through my follies. They knew how to laugh at me and rarely took me seriously. Everything in California felt serious, and everyone treated me thus as well. After all, I was the big adventurer. I was the wanderer who had risked the life I had always known to fi nd something with more grandeur. But I know now that the real grandeur comes in the smile of your mother when you’re laughing over dinner. It comes in the salty smell of the St John’s River, the breeze from the Atlantic, the beautiful Jack- sonville skyline and the seven bridges we cross everyday. I just wondered if people at home would rec- ognize this new grandeur? My cat did. After two fl ights in twelve hours, he walked out of his cat carrier and immediately went to the food bowl. Soon after, he was outside chewing on some grass and simply understood that we were back. The fi rst few weeks in Jacksonville were similar to every other vacation home I had taken over the past fi ve years: fi lled with visits to every friend and family member I hadn’t seen over the past year and the thrill of going to all my old favorite spots. One thing was missing, however- the anticipation of good- bye. Some things are different this time around. The initial shock of hello is wearing off and real life is settling in. I have started working. I go to the grocery store, to the doctor, to church on occasion. People have stopped wanting to hang out every day in order to squeeze in as much visit time as possible. I am becoming a local. I have even found a cute little bungalow in San Marco where I can hang my hat and even leave my heart. The other day my friend asked me, talking on the phone, if I was happy to be back. She seemed to have apprehension in her voice, and it dawned on me. I am happy. And, people can see the change. They even respect it, but I still throw it out there on occasion that I have just relocated from California. It’s like a Girl Scout badge. I want everyone to know what I’ve done. I feel different, and it’s important that every- one knows. My fear of losing the part of me that grew up inside the hard streets of Oakland is still there, but I also still check my locks every time I leave the house. I revel in the fact that there is readily available parking wherever you go, a novelty I had not even considered before. People think our strip malls are unattractive, but when it takes you half an hour to park whenever you leave your house, you start to ap- preciate them. A strip mall is just like a city, but with ample parking. Really, it’s just like southerners to be so polite. I still cook the recipes I learned when I was out there. And I still have my music. Now, when I drive around this driving town, I listen to the music that carried me through the Bay and back home again. My new me has melded with the old me. I realize now it’s not the place that changes you, but you that changes yourself. I made the choice, I made the move, and I made the return. I waved goodbye to the quest, but did not lose the vision.

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 29 been solid all season long, and the Braves have to be thinking wild BEACHWISE by Shaun Robbins card if they want a shot. THE Meanwhile out West, the The Man. The Myth. The Dodgers and Padres will Legend. This week I would like get it on in San Diego for to dedicate my column to one of JOCK a weekend series, which the all-time iconic fi gures in surf- should be a nice scenar- ing history: Wilbur Kookmeyer. If by tom weppel io for David Wells, now you don’t know who he is, you throwing for L.A. after might just be a kook yourself. being cut by the Pads For those who really don’t know, a month ago. Both are Wilbur Kookmeyer is a cartoon going after the D-backs character that was featured in in the NL West. his own self-named comic strip, which was created by Bob Penu- U.S. OPEN TENNIS elas. JAGUARS This week the U.S. For a few years Penuelas After the last preseason game here against Open Tennis Championships cranked up in Flush- produced a comic strip called the Redskins, the Jaguars will now get down to the ing Meadow, NY, outside New York City.We all know “Maynard and the Rat,” a two- ‘good stuff’! They begin the regular season here at about Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Both are page feature in Surfer Magazine home against the Titans on the 9th. It will undoubt- clearly at the top of the heap on the Men’s side, and that ran every month. In one of edly be damn hot. Already, the talk is almost all its gonna take a lot to unseat them in the next few these issues, Penuelas intro- about Byron Leftwich. Many are unimpressed with years. Americans Andy Roddick and James Blake duced Wilbur, a surf dork. Wilbur his play during the preseason, leaving them quite will give fairly valiant efforts, but unless they raise was met with an overwhelming apprehensive about what is to come for the regular their respective games, will not come through with reader response and became season. All this, while back up David Garrard looked a title. So, look for Nadal and Federer in the Final.For a monthly feature in the comic quite sharp during his own preseason play, albeit the Women, the landscape is entirely different. There strip. against second-teamers. And while I would agree are a number of girls who can make a good, strong By 1986 Wilbur was more popular than the other characters and became the featured star of the that Leftwich has not looked all that great in these run and come away with a U.S. Open title, and we strip. Penuelas offi cially switched the name of the comic strip to “Wilbur Kookmeyer,” and the comic games so far, I would also have to agree with him in have seen that quite evident so far this season, with strip continued to be a regular addition to the magazine from 1986 to 2000, before Wilbur went into saying that the preseason means nothing at all! Wait the reemergence of the Williams sisters trumping the hiding for three years. On his reemergence in 2004, Penuelas brought Wilbur back as a regular feature until the regular season starts to begin your wining stories.We shall see how things play out here. We once more until the last strip was published in August 2006. about who should and who shouldn’t be playing! always get an early upset or two, which heightens During his 20-year reign as “King of the Kooks,” Wilbur took part in a variety of fun-loving adven- We’ll get plenty of opportunities to see Byron and his interest in the tournament. tures and mishaps. One month he would be shredding waves in his daydreams, the next he would be boys play, as they begin their season at home with blaming his surfi ng shortcomings on his board’s sticker placement. It was great comic strips like these two home games. LAST WORD that kept readers thumbing through their copy of Surfer Magazine each month to see what Wilbur was There is one faction of humanity loving this up to next, thus entertaining multiple generations of surfers. COLLEGE FOOTBALL whole Michael Vick fi asco, and that is my fellow While Wilbur isn’t a real person, hence not a real surfer, he is without a doubt a surfi ng legend. The season cranks up this weekend with Media. Its absolutely amazing to me how the Media Just talk to anyone who surfed in the late 80’s or 90’s, and they will surely know who Wilbur Kook- games all over the place. There are plenty of wild will simply devour a story such as this, take it, and meyer is. To give you a better sense of how popular this guy was, he had his own clothing line and match-ups, as we’ll see in Athens, when the Georgia run with it as far and as long as they possibly can, other memorabilia out for a while, which was offered in surf shops across the country. I, myself, had Bulldogs host Oklahoma State. Also, Tennessee goes squeezing every last drop of viewer attention they the Wilbur Kookmeyer bendable fi gurine, which could bend and twist into crazy positions! to California to play the Golden Bears, while Georgia can get. ESPN has been they most prominent, stag- While the comic strip is long gone, the memories of Wilbur’s antics remain. The offi cial Wilbur Tech heads to Notre Dame. The #1 Southern Cal ing set ups for reporters, analysts, and experts at Kookmeyer Website (wilbur-kookmeyer.com) is up and running and features some of the classic comic Trojans host Idaho. We also get to see Florida State all times, as if they are uncovering ground-break- strips that so many of us grew up with. You should visit the site and read some of the classic comic make their debut against a Clemson team that is ing information for us. All the while, it is becoming strips, re-live some of your youth, or introduce someone else to this classic surfi ng icon. Regardless, always fairly tough. It will be a stern test for this public knowledge as even before they report some you should visit the site to pay homage to one of surfi ng’s legendary icons. Seminoles squad we have heard such good things news. They’d never let you know that, though. about, with their new coaches in place. We’ll also The only thing I can say, though, is that Vick hear the father/son line play out, with Bobby and brought this all upon himself. If he was ignorant forecasted conditions Tommy Bowden. enough to NOT know the ramifi cations of the activ- We fi nally got some good surf to help keep everyone on his or her game, and I enjoyed my fair share Florida (Western Kentucky), and Miami (Mar- ity he was getting himself into, then perhaps he of waves to keep me satisfi ed for a little bit. Going into Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we should not see shall), will get walks in the park at home, as will a should’ve done some serious fact-fi nding, especially any spectacular surf, but we will see some small ridable waves, so break out your longboard or fi sh and number of other powerhouse teams, playing what after signing a $100+ million contract, along with enjoy. Looking forward to Monday and the rest of the week, we will continue to have small ridable surf. amounts to exhibition practices against weaker op- some fantastic endorsement deals with Nike, EA Looking to the tropics there doesn’t seem to be any real activity that will push quality waves our way, ponents. Sports, and the like. Michael Vick decided to fl ush but keep your fi ngers crossed. Don’t take my weekly word for it, call or log onto your local report daily that all down the toilet when he staged a few dog- to fi nd out what the present conditions are for your favorite break. MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL fi ghts, then hung them out to die. I’m sure he’ll have If the plan on catching their rival plenty of time to think about it all in jail. New York Mets, they may want to beat them a few times at home this weekend. This is a pivotal series Tom Weppel talks trash with Greg Larson, Lonnie for the Braves, who have to make a move soon if Marts, Eugene Chung, Artis Gilmore, and Ron Du- they are going to get into the playoffs. New York has guay on SportsAvengers.com 24/7.

30 august 30-september 5, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper nascar news & notes BY RICHARD TEAGUE [email protected]

Come work for the hottest upscale seafood restaurant concept opening Is Kasey Back? Freddy Is! Now that’s a good we know who that is don’t we?) won’t let them. Poor October 2007. question and I think that the answer is yes! Why, you Richard (not the almanac) sounds like a poster boy ask? Well, for the only reason I can think of, Ray for Save The World when he said, “There’s room Evernham is back doing what he does best, working for all of us.” and “To fi nd a way where all of us can with his teams in the shop and at the track. I men- Now survive in this world would be good for RCR, good tioned a few weeks back how Mayfi eld left (got fi red for the sport.” You know NASCAR made the deal or whatever) Evernham Motorsports because he was with Nextel and then Sprint bought them up, so next saying that Ray wasn’t around much. Rumors had it season it’s going to be the NASCAR Sprint Cup Se- Hiring that he was too busy… Let me phrase this carefully ries soooooo why can’t AT&T be on the car? Servers • Line Cooks here: personally overseeing his newest young driver. Here’s a little background on Mr. Wagenhals. Arrows fl ew and words were exchanged between Fred joined a super nice guy by the name of Stan Gill Bussers • Bartenders Jeremy and Ray, then the next thing we know, May- a few years after Stan had started Racing Collectors fi eld is looking for work. After all this, Ray would Club of America. Things went well and business was Host/ess • Dishwashers spend time in court with Jeremy and his wife then good. Collectors were happy because the diecast • Great Food • Fun Atmosphere more time in court with his own estranged wife. cars were being made in small numbers and just two • Flexible Scheduling • Great Benefits All these clouds of rain inside the shops at scales, 1/64th and 1/24th with all the top and not-so- EMS caused problems with Kasey, the young in- top drivers that Stan had signed to RCCA. As in all • Competitive Wages and More! nocent type guy he is, and put him out in right fi eld good things, they do change, and RCCA wasn’t left Apply in person at: with no leadership. Three great Cup seasons under out. his belt this year has been terrible for Kahne, until Most of the time the changes helped all in- St. John’s Ray fi nally admitted to the world he and Crocker volved, but this time only Freddy got the good end of Town Center where involved. I can’t dream how things where in the deal. The way I heard it was that Gill was left by Apply in hiring trailer behind the shops at EMS. It must have been like quicksand the roadside (or rather sh*t out of the company) and Dick's Sporting Goods for the people there. They couldn’t say nothing about Freddy took control. According to the news release Call 904-254-1581 or 254-8208 what they knew or thought was happening because issued by the Motorsports Authentics (their new of the Mayfi eld affair and the Crocker affair. There is name) the other day, which is now owned by Bruton or apply online at: EOE no wonder that all the teams suffered from this soap Smith and Brian France, Freddy was the founder of opera crap, which, by the way, doesn’t belong in Action Racing Collectables. I won’t dispute this, but NASCAR, even if racing is headed toward that kind of it really seems to me that Stan came up with the stuff. name. But since he’s out of the picture what’s he go- This wasn’t the only thing that was keeping ing to do? What has happened is that the name Brian Evernham out of the day-to-day preparations for and Bruton came up with (Motorsports Authentics) races. Now Ray Evernham was a crew chief for Jeff ain’t working, so they bring Freddy back so they Gordon and when they split he got Dodge’s bless- can use the ARC brand instead. Funny thing is that ings to open up a multi-car team, not as a chief, but when they bought Freddy out a couple of years ago, big time owner. Ray ain’t the owner kind of guy. He I heard he was still on the payroll and never left. fi nally said so early this season and he went looking So now MA has the RCCA brand. They didn’t for a partner. He has certainly found the right guy in give up and they are bringing back the ACR brand George Gillett Jr. (that’s all we need is another Jr. in to bring back diecast collectors when all they have NASCAR) and it seems like a marriage made in on to do is stop making so much stuff and lower the the infi eld. With Gillett taking over the front offi ce and prices instead of raising the cost of those little majority ownership of the newly named Gillett Ever- pieces of metal. Even with a lock on the market, it nham Motorsports, Ray has gotten back to basics. looks like the company ain’t working. So, like I said, “This will allow me to focus on our racing operations here Comes Freddy “Krueger” Wagenhals and it ain’t and team performance, while the Gillett family will a pretty sight for the real NASCAR collector!! By focus on our business operations.” says Evernham. the way, Stanley is still around these days and just It appears that all the BS is moving out of as good a guy as ever. He’s still making them little the way for EMS, and especially for Kasey with his pieces of diecast metal, but they’re now boats and showing at Bristol this weekend. He starts at 23rd planes with just a few cars. You can catch him at his in the Busch Series race and fi nishes fi rst, then, on website – diecast-badass.com. Hey Stan, you want Saturday night, he’s got the pole leads and the most to go drag racing at Thunder Bolt? laps but he comes in second. With only two top-tens Well that’s me for this week but if’n you need this season in Cup and now a top-fi ve, it would seem to get me I’ll be at [email protected] and that Kasey Is Back and so is Ray. like always, If it ain’t NASCAR, It ain’t s**t! Dumb, stupid, ignorant, greedy, goofy and a host of other words could be used to describe (you guessed it) Michael Waltrip. You know the real words that are needed to be used here is WHY! Why did Waltrip race Kahne so hard when he was trying to pass? Why didn’t Waltrip let the leader go by as is customary in racing when you’re a lap down (in his case two laps)?

Let me move on to other things here. The AT&T vs. NASCAR vs. RCR vs. Sprint lawsuit. Yeah, I know Richard really ain’t got any say in the matter, but him and RCR (along with us fans) surely will be the losers if Brian France wins this bout. RCR and Jeff Burton will lose their sponsor if AT&T cannot have the logo on the #31 car just because NASCAR (and

eujacksonville.com | august 30-september 5, 2007 31