A Close up of Film Maker
Britt
The Age of Armor Ambar Ramirez
Brawl Carmen Macri
Williams
Cole
Nicholson
Giving Thanks to Those Who Cook… Rob Nicholson
Full of Holiday Spirit Folio Staff
The Archives
Film Reviews Harry Moore
Boring Social Media is Making a Comeback Carmen Macri
Dean Winter & The Heat
Nicholson
TERESA SPENCER
ROB NICHOLSON
MOLLY BRITT
AMBAR RAMIREZ
CARMEN MACRI
JOHN
PHILLIPS,
RAIN
MOORE
The Wait For Dreams In Gold Courtney Thomassen
In Pie We Trust Ambar Ramirez
Behind the cover: Greta Van Fleet by Courtney Thomassen
Mars being your ruling planet causes something particularly powerful this November. This Mars retrograde is slamming on the brakes for you, Aries. Now is the time to slow down and self reflect. Take this time to deeply explore your relationship with the physical world… If you know what I mean.
The beginning of the month may put a damper on your mood, Taurus. But do not fret for the energy you give others is the same energy you will receive. Focus on the good and you will start to see that light at the end of the tunnel that everybody is always talking about.
Sweet, sweet Gemini. This Mars retrograde calls on you to reflect on how you can express your passion and anger in a way that others can receive. You do not always need to be on the defensive. You may find yourself feeling irate during this shift, but take that energy and turn it into something else. Deep dive into your creative side this month.
All that hard work and planning is going to pay off for you this month, Cancer. You may find yourself spending more than usual, but that’s because you will be earning more! Go on a shopping spree and treat yourself, you’ve earned it.
It may sound crazy, but you need to take some time to recharge. It doesn’t need to be go, go, go all the time, Leo. The lunar eclipse in Taurus on Nov. 8 will be a grounding time for you. Reflect on who and what you are putting your energy into; not everything or everyone deserves it.
Oh, Virgo, you’ve heard it before but now is the time to actually listen. You may be finding yourself with a lot more work on your plate this month, which is all the more reason to prioritize yourself and your mental health. Put on that face mask, close the blinds, and take a break!
Last month proved to be fruitful for you, Libra. But as the leaves begin to change color, so do the stars’ plans for you. This month is all about money and work. Use your loving nature to your advantage and show the same compassion you show others in your work for it will pay off big time!
It smells like Scorpio season! Jump at any opportunity that comes your way; it is <your> month after all. November brings a great feeling of ambition for you. That being said, don’t dive solely into your work. The lunar eclipse this month calls on you to embrace intimacy. Lord knows how hard that is for you. Don’t shy away from it, though. You’ll be surprised by what you may find.
When opportunity knocks on your door, you answer it, Sagittarius! Cliche sayings are cliche for a reason. Take a risk and look your fears right in the
face, you won’t regret it. If you didn’t get a chance to pack a suitcase and catch a flight out of the country last month, an opportunity at the end of this month may just give you that chance.
It’s time to heal that inner child, Capricorn. The celestial energy this month will challenge you to take off that mask and embrace your feelings. Gross, right? How you spend your time this month is important. Surround yourself with the ones who love you. Go play in the rain. Jump in a puddle. Do whatever you need to do to put a smile on that pretty face.
After all that hard work last month, the time has come to work on yourself, Aquarius. The globe keeps spinning, but that doesn’t mean you have to as well. Dedicate time out of your busy schedule to do the things you love. Read a book, go to the beach, grab a drink with friends, and most importantly have fun!
AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! You’ll understand soon enough, Pisces. The Mars retrograde and lunar eclipse may be working against you this month. That does not mean you can’t climb up from the ashes. Don’t fold under this celestial power trip the universe is on. Rise above the stars, Pisces. It may be difficult, but you can do it. By the end of the month, you may be due for a vacation… a long one.
Hi there,
Floridians are at stake of losing a unique, direct voice in their government if voters pass Constitutional Amendment 2 on the November 8 election ballot. A distinguished scholar of public policy and political science, Carol Weissert writes in this Opinion piece why Florida voters should reject this bad idea.
In November, voters will be asked to decide whether to abolish one of Florida’s important ways citizens can directly have their voices heard. If passed by 60 percent of Florida’s voters, Amendment 2 would abolish the constitution revision com mission, a board of citizens, appointed by the governor, legislative leaders, and the supreme court chief justice, that meets every 20 years to review the state’s constitution and make recommendations for change.
As one of the only states with a CRC, Florida gives its citizens a rare and innovative opportunity to play an active role in democracy. Enshrined in the state constitution, the 37-member CRC travels the state to hear about the issues that matter most to Floridians and proposes constitutional amendments that go right to the ballot for a public vote. Since 1968, the CRC has convened only three times, most recently in 2017-18.
The third CRC met and placed seven measures on the ballot on issues ranging from ethics to dog racing, offshore drilling to rights of crime victims. (An eighth was removed by the courts for a misleading title.) All the measures passed. So why are we trying to change this—to essentially silence citizens? The argument is that several of the measures contained more than one item, called ‘bundling,’ and thus were confusing. But apparently voters did not agree. Perhaps more telling is that the legislature does not like having another entity that can put constitutional changes on the ballot. Certainly, this view is consistent with recent legislative measures to curb the use of the initiative process—a second way citizens can directly address issues that perhaps the legislature wants to avoid.
It is noteworthy that both the initiative and the CRC were placed in the 1968 constitution to respond to a frustration that there was no practical way around a legislature entrenched against reform. Such reforms flowing from the first two CRCs included requiring the state to make adequate provision for an efficient, safe, secure, and high-quality public education system, a local option for merit selection of trial judges, streamlining the state cabinet to four officials (including the gov ernor) and setting up a system of public financing for statewide candidates.
A 2019 LeRoy Collins Institute survey found that Floridians like having a body other than the Legislature listen to the people and propose updates to the state’s fundamental document. While few recognize the CRC by name, an overwhelming majority – 87% – favor having a commission doing what the CRC does.
The LeRoy Collins Institute has long supported the CRC and continues to do so. The CRC follows the advice of Thomas Jefferson who thought that every generation should have the ‘solemn’ opportunity to update its constitution. This solemn duty should not be lightly revoked. Please vote No on Amendment 2.
Dr. Weissert
Through Nov. 13 Caroline or Change Players by the Sea playersbythesea.org
Nov. 3
Disney Princess: The Concert Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
Untold Stories: Building Bridges Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Nov. 3-5
JU Fall Dance Concert Jacksonville University–Swisher Theater ju.edu/cfa
Nov. 4-20
Clue Theatre Jacksonville theatrejax.com
Nov. 10
Spy Ninjas Live Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com
Nov. 10-13
The WIzard of Oz (young actors version).
Amelia Musical Playhouse, Fernandina Beach ameliamusicalplayhouse.com
Nov 11-20
Cheaper by the Dozen
The Island Theater, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com
Nov. 12
Barreltop Burlesque: Vaudeville Floor Show
Burlock and Barrel Distillery & Tasting Room burlockandbarrel.com
Nov. 17-Dec. 24
Irving Berlin's White Christmas Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com
Nov. 18
Family Wrights Thanksgiving Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
Dirty Dancing in Concert Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
Nov. 20
Cirque Dreams Holidaze Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
Nov. 25-Dec. 11
Jinglebell Jukebox Revue Players by The Sea Theatre abetjax.com
All trivia games are general knowledge unless otherwise noted. Don’t see your favorite trivia spot? Drop us a hint at mail@folioweekly.com with “trivia” in the subject line.
• The Brix Taphouse (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Donovan’s Irish Pub, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boule vard (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Julington Creek (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Avondale, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Durbin Pavilion Drive, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–River City/ Northside, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Tinseltown, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fleming Island (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Treylor Park (pop culture trivia), 9 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Fleming Island (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo, 7 p.m.
• Harps American Grill, 7 p.m.
• Hoptinger–5 Points (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boule vard, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Julington Creek, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Neptune Beach, 7 p.m.
• Island Wing Company–Southside, 7 p.m.
• Jax Craft Beer, 7 p.m.
• Jerry's Sports Grille, 7 p.m.
• Raindogs, 7 p.m.
• Sahara Cafe, 7 p.m.
• Southern Grill, 7 p.m.
• Xtreme Wings Sports Bar and Grille, St. Johns, 7 p.m.
• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• King Maker Brewing (Name That Tune), 7:30 p.m.
• Lynch’s Irish Pub (music bingo), 7:30 p.m.
• Time Out Sports Bar, 7:30 p.m.
• Surfer the Bar (pop culture trivia), 9:30 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra (mu sic bingo), 6:30 p.m.
• V Pizza–Mandarin (pop culture), 6:30 p.m.
• The Beacon, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Cruisers Grill, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Mandarin, 7 p.m.
• Firefly Bay, 7 p.m.
• Island Wing Company–Southside Bou levard (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Jacksonville Beach, 7 p.m.
• Scarlett O’ Hara’s, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fleming Island (pop culture trivia), 7 p.m.
• Veterans United Craft Brewery, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.
• Harps American Grill (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–5 Points, 7:30 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.
• King Maker Brewing, 7:30 p.m.
• Time Out Sports Grill, 7:30 p.m
• The Brix Taphouse (pop culture trivia), 8 p.m.
• Hamburger Mary’s (drag bingo, 21+), 8 p.m.
• Hoptinger–Jacksonville Beach, 9 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra, 7 p.m.
• Whiskey Jax–Baymeadows, 7 p.m.
• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza, 7:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–St Augustine, 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–Jax Beach (music bingo), 9 p.m.
• Hamburger Mary’s (HamBingo), 2 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Ann O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 8 p.m. (first and third Sunday)
NOV. 2
River City Showcase Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
Improv Night With First Coast Comedy Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 3 Bryan Torresday featuring Levi White Jackie Knight’s Comedy Club jackieknightscomedyclub.com
NOV. 3-5
Jon Reep Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
NOV. 4
Crass & The Curious Comedy Show Case featuring Marcus Crespo with special guests Anna Lepeley,Marty Labbe and Brian Thomas
Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
NOV. 4
First Coast Comedy: The Main Event (7:30 p.m.)
Full Disclosure: Adults Only (10 p.m.)
First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV. 4-5
Phatt Katz Comedy Presents Jenn Weeks, Double D and Leroy Gordon 2111 Restaurant & Comedy Lounge phattkatz.com
NOV. 5 Jo Koy VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
First Coast Comedy: Main Event (7:30 p.m.) Blue Show: Adults Only (10 p.m.) First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV. 6
Best. Stand Up Show. Ever. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV. 9
Improv Night With First Coast Comedy Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 10-12
T.J. Miller Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
NOV. 11-12
First Coast Comedy: The Main Event (7:30 p.m.)
Full Disclosure: Adults Only (10 p.m.) First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV. 13
Kevin Hart: Reality Check VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
NOV. 16
Improv Night With First Coast Comedy Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 17 Danny Johnson featuring Mitch Silver Jackie Knight’s Comedy Club jackieknightscomedyclub.com
NOV. 17-19
Southern Momma Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
NOV. 18
Bill Burr: Slight Return VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
Cat & Nat Unfiltered Live Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
NOV. 18-19
First Coast Comedy: The Main Event (7:30 p.m.)
The Blue Show: Adults Only (10 p.m.) First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV.19
Paul Reiser Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
NOV. 20 Todd Barry Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
NOV. 23
LOL Night Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
Improv Night With First Coast Comedy Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 25
First Coast Comedy: The Main Event (7:30 p.m.)
Full Disclosure: Adults Only (10 p.m.)
First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV. 25-26
Che Durena Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
NOV. 26
First Coast Comedy: The Main Event (7:30 p.m.)
The Blue Show: Adults Only (10 p.m.)
First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
NOV. 30
Ben Brainard Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
Johnny Mac featuring Patrick Carson Jackie Knight’s Comedy Club jackieknightscomedyclub.com
ON-GOING
Colonial Park, St. Augustine Improv Night, every Wednesday thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Jax Craft Beer
Tap That Comedy Night, fourth Wednes day of the month jaxcraftbeer.com
The Justice Pub Bombs Away! Comedy Open Mic, Wednesdays facebook.com/TheJusticePub Raindogs Hot Potato Comedy Night, Mondays instagram.com/raindogs5points
Veterans United Craft Brewery Comedy in the Tap Room, third Thursday of the month vubrew.com
The Walrus Magical Mystery Mic hosted by Daisy Tackett, Wednesdays thewalrusjax.com
Deborah Roberts “I’M” Exhibit
The Art Center Gallery tacjacksonvillegallery.org
Butterfield Garage Art Gallery
• Featured artists: Daniel Callahan and Michael Higbe butterfieldgarage.com
The Corner Gallery at The Jessie
• “Past, Present, Future: Rivers, Threads, Pockets and Bubbles” featuring works by Dustin Harewood, Malcolm Jackson, Toni Smailagić and Jordan Walter, through Nov. 2 movingthemargins.org
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
• “Deborah Robert: I’m,” through Dec. 4
• “Revolve: Spotlight on the Permanent Collection,” through Nov. 13
• “Frieseke in Florida: Memories of Jacksonville in the 1880s,” through Jan. 1
• “The Age of Armor: Treasures from the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum,” Oct. 21 through Jan. 22
• “Jacksonville’s Norman Studios,” through Jan. 30
• ”Illuminating Nature,” Nov. 29, Cummer Gardens cummermuseum.org
• Erin Kendrick: “The Hotelsmen,” Nov. 4-Dec. 2, Crisp-Ellert Art Museum flagler.edu
Florida State College
• “The Pain of Process” with works by Nick Wagner, Colbey Joyce, Sole del Real and Devin Maya, through Nov. 15, Kent Campus Gallery
• Prints by Mizin Shin, through Nov. 9, South Campus Gallery
• “Mirrors and Windows: A Collection of Works by the Art Therapists of Indigo Art Therapy,” through Nov. 18, North Campus Gallery
• Highlights of the Student Annual, through Nov. 30, Downtown Campus Gallery
• “Elena Øhlander: Journey to the West East,” through Dec. 8, The Gallery at Deerwood Center
• Student Holiday Celebration, Nov. 16-Dec. 6, South Campus Gallery
• Kent Campus Student Holiday Celebration, Nov. 22Dec. 6, Kent Campus Gallery fscj.edu/art-galleries
Haskell Gallery at Jacksonville International Airport jaxairportarts.com
HIllary Whitaker Gallery
• Works by Carmelo Blanding, John Bunker, Hillary Butler, Dennis Campay, Page Jones Davis, Marissa Decinque, Christina Foard, Jennifer JL Jones and others hwhitakergallery.com
Jacksonville Main Library
• "Duval Art Downtown: An Exhibition for Educators," through November 15, Betty Francis Art Gallery jaxpubliclibrary.org
Jacksonville University
• ”Bill Davis: No Dark in Sight,” virtual exhibition
• “Kristin Skees: Close Knit,” virtual exhibition ju.edu/cfa
Lightner Museum
• “Bouke de Vries: War and Pieces,” through Dec. 31 lightnermuseum.org
MOCA Jacksonville
• “Express Your UNF Pride,” through Nov. 13
• “Art With a Heart: What Lifts You Up,” through Jan. 8
• “FIFTY: An Alumni Exhibition,” through Feb. 12
• “Shervone Neckles: Bless This House,” through March 5
• “Don’t Blame It on Zen: The Way of John Cage & Friends,” through May 7
• Black Art Matters Series: Artist Radcliffe Bailey, virtual lecture, Nov. 8 mocajacksonville.unf.edu
• Arts Infusion ImagiNclusion, MOSH Lobby
• Works by Princess Simpson Rashid, MOSH Creation Station themosh.org
NoCo Center
• “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” through Nov. 27 vangoghjacksonville.com
Ritz Theatre & Museum
• “Through Our Eyes: Female Led Legacies,” through Jan. 9
• “Lift Ev’ry Voice,” permanent collection ritzjacksonville.com
San Marco Art Festival Nov. 26-27
San Marco Square sanmarcoartfestival.com
• Works by Eileen Corse, Jim Draper, Fallon Pepper, C. Ford Riley, Alice Williams, MacTruque and Jeff Fox wothy (yes, that Jeff Foxworthy) stellersgallery.com
University of North Florida
• Works by UNF Art, Art History and Design Faculty, through Nov. 11, UNF Gallery of Art
• “Forms of Knowing: Cultural Documents Considering Alzheimer's Research,” through Nov. 11, Lufrano Inter cultural Gallery unf.edu/gallery
The Vault at 1930
• Works by Ellen Diamond, David Engdahl, Dolf James, Ed Hall, Ed Malesky, William McMahan and others thevaultat1930.com
Yellow House
• “Sit in Stand Up,” virtual exhibition
• “Still Not About a Hotdog and a Coke,” virtual exhibition
• “Magic, Mirth, and Mortality: Musings on Black Mother hood,” virtual exhibition yellowhouseart.org
Ongoing Art Walk: Nov. 2
Downtown Jacksonville lights up the first Wednesday of the month with art by local artists at hubs in James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie and Vagabond Flea at VyStar Tower from 5–9 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, street performers, free admission to MOCA and complimentary rides on JTA’s Skyway. dtjax.org/artwalk
Fernandina Beach Arts Market: Nov. 12 and 26 Amelia Island's premier arts and crafts market comes alive the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Fernandinabeachartsmarket.com
Riverside Arts Market: Nov. 5, 12, 19 and 26 Artists, artisans and makers display their original paint ings, jewelry, photographs, prints and other handcrafted items every Saturday—rain or shine—from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Riverside Avenue underneath the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge. riversideartsmarket.com
St. Augustine First Friday Artwalk: Nov. 4
The first Friday of every month (hence the clever name) more than 30 galleries around the Oldest City open their doors from 5–9 p.m. for visitors to browse exhibits and interact with artists. A complimentary trolley service provides transportation between downtown venues. artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
A Life Worthy is a short film based on the book Blessed written by Harry Williams II. The story touches on the life of a young man “who grew up in the hood” and found himself dealing with drugs and violence, despite his loving parents and his path in life, and the film touches on the book’s topics of gang violence, drug deals, life and death situations, and a man simply promising to change his ways and move toward a faith-based life.
As I sat down to watch the 19-minute short film Williams sent me, I did not know what to expect. I found myself interested in where it was going, and every turn it took me on, I was struck. To explore topics like the ones this story talks about is to try and understand a life I did not have to experience growing up, but one many others have been dealt. After watching the film, I spoke with Williams to gain further insight into why he chose to tell this story.
The story is “95% of my life,” Williams told me. Every character, he said, is a piece of him. “I want to show folks that, OK, this is where I’ve been. These are the things that I may be involved in … and not so much glorify it but still tell the story that this is a reality.” He made an effort in both the book and the film to give others a look into a world they may never knew existed that is honest, without judgment and not overdramatized, as many films on such topics can be.
Growing up, Williams had always been imaginative and creative, but it wasn’t until he was older that he felt the need to start writing. He bought a legal pad and just started writing. One day he shared his story with some friends and co-workers—and they loved it. When he saw that he could really do something with his words, he got a laptop and became more serious. He began writing things he could see play out like a movie in his head and knew then, it could be something. After that “a light switch came on,” and WIlliams found people in the film industry that could help him on this path.
Williams has taken a liking to tagging the end of all his films with words of positivity from someone who’s been a part of the film’s journey. He wants to show others that they can do anything no matter where they come from.
A close up of film maker Harry Williams II and his recent projects
As a little girl, I dreamed a knight in shining armor would save me from my one-story apartment and whisk me away on his white horse. But, of course, that’s a fairy tale, except that knights in shining armor very much existed. They just weren’t saving princesses from tall towers (and they probably didn’t own white horses).
On Oct. 21, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens revealed its newest exhibition to the public. As part of “The Age of Armor”: Treasures from the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum, visitors can view the large collection of armor and artillery weapons that are, quite literally, from ages ago.
While armor is primarily worn to protect a person in combat, it makes a statement about the wearer, according to Cummer Director and CEO Andrea Barnwell Brownlee. “It's also about identity and social prestige and heroes and the past.”
Interestingly, I found the exhibit addresses misconceptions when it comes to people's idea of armor, weapons and their uses. We’ve all read fairy tales and watched movies or TV shows about knights and their glinting armor, but I found that those types of knights have been construed to entertainment’s favor. They don’t convey the reality of the people who wore these suits of armor and the people who made them.
Starting from 2000 BCE, the exhibit portrays the evolution and progression of armor from simply being functional to becoming more ceremonial. The armor displayed at the beginning of the collection highlights the practicality of the suits and how they were tailored uniquely for each warrior. Despite these suits being made out of heavy metals or alloys like bronze, they were designed in a way to allow warriors to move and fight.
As one continues to walk through the showing, time progression is highlighted through the details of design. It is emphasized that this collection isn’t about showcasing a famous suit of armor worn by a famous warrior or duke. Instead, it is about revealing the growth and decline of armor.
“What I love, love, love about museums right now more so than ever is something that we've been talking about, time travel,” Brownlee said. “Every time you come here, you have an opportunity to experience something new, to live through the eyes of different artists, live through the eyes of different perspectives.”
The further you go into the exhibit, the further the suits move away from being practical and become more about representing one's social status. Certain engravings, fabrics and forms were meticulously chosen to portray what was fashionable during that time. In the 1500s, for example, the armor highlights that idea of impracticality with the choice of bold materials and detailed engravings that had no reason of being used in actual combat.
“This exhibition focuses on how they evolved and how they changed over time and how they were used,” Brownlee said. “It's a really incredible project.”
In addition to full suits of armor, the collection also displays weapons, accessories and refurbished protective items. The collection is highly captivating, as well as educational. They say you learn something new every day, but I learned more than just one thing.
“The Age of Armor” is on display at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens through Jan. 22.
Spirits were high during the third quarter of the Bar Brawl at The Volstead downtown.
The bracket-style competition calls for the best bartenders in the city to show the people what they’re made of, only it comes with a twist. The bartenders are given a spirit and a list of secret ingredients… though, they aren’t allowed to choose freely. There is a Plinko-type board with unique ingredients at the bottom and the fate of the bartenders’ drinks being left to gravity. The broad spectrum of components ranges from fresh pineapple to carrot turmeric puree.
Two bartenders take the stage with only five minutes to make a drink that will “wow” the judges, one of whom being Folio columnist Shelton Hull. After the contenders set their stations, they hurry to the Plinko board to decide their fate. The previous contestant struck gold this round with Aquafaba (the water left over from cooked chickpeas, FYI) and watermelon puree, but other bartenders weren’t so lucky this time.
Alex Arniaz, a mixologist at TPC Sawgrass, stepped up to the board with high hopes, only to have his ball drop on balsamic reduction.
“I wasn’t thrilled about getting balsamic as an ingredient, but I had to be prepared for it when I first saw the list,” Arniaz explained. “When creating cocktails for the masses and one that most people would enjoy, I wouldn’t say balsamic is the first thing people think of.”
That is why the hosts of the Bar Brawl add funky factors: to make the contestants stop and think for a minute. To tap into their years of bartending experience. Anyone can make a simple cocktail, not everyone can make one out of balsamic.
“The first cocktail that came to mind was actually a riff of a Martinez, a spirit-forward stirred cocktail,” Arniaz said. “Pretty in Pink” was her name, and boy was she pretty. (Yes, the cocktail
was a she.) Aviation gin, St. Germain, lemon juice, balsamic, and basil topped with pink cold brew tea.
Five minutes feels like a lifetime to the curiously thirsty crowd, but for the bartenders, the time passes in the blink of an eye. They may have a drink in mind, but the second that timer starts and the secret ingredients are determined, all bets are off.
Music is blaring and the crowd is chanting with all eyes on the stage. Arniaz and his competitor took a comradery shot before commencing their round. The clock is ticking and both contestants are in the zone. Shakers are shaking and jiggers are pouring. When the emcee steps out to announce the end of the round, the bartenders add their final touches. They create one cocktail for the judges and send shots out to the crowd. (Lucky us!)
Friends of both bartenders attempt to sway the judges one way or another but to no avail. The judges take their sweet time when coming to a conclusion, going back and forth between both drinks. Hushed discussions are shared between them when deciding who would be the champion of the fifth round.
After a few minutes and more than a few sips, the judges are finally ready to crown a bartender. Pretty in Pink was not the winner, but that didn’t discourage Arniaz.
This was not his first rodeo with Bar Brawl. He competed in the second quarter Bar Brawl last June and fell in love with it.
“[Bar Brawl] is something I will continue to participate in as long as they let me. It’s one night when everyone’s off of work bartending side by side because they love what they do,” Arniaz explained. Even if he doesn’t participate in the future, he said it’s one of his favorite nights and he’ll still come and support his fellow bartenders compete. After all, he said, the most important thing is to have fun. “That’s what these competitions are made for.”
posed and edited. BeReal is the one and only social media that does not allow its users to spend hours a day scrolling, losing complete track of time. One post a day? Unheard of in this climate of the internet.
Having to post the photos in real-time and being unable to upload from your camera roll completely removes all inauthenticity that is the norm for every other platform. Photos cannot be Facetuned. There are no beauty filters. It is real-time and real-life. There is no glamour on the app to make your life seem more interesting than it is, which is an immense problem on social media today.
According to a study by Middle Georgia State University on the negative effect social media has on individuals who actively use it, there is a clear correlation between social media use and increased anxiety, stress, depression, body image issues and loneliness in young adults. Social media has become a drug for people. Checking Snapchat, continuously refreshing the page to see if anyone has posted a story. The same goes for Instagram.
Once a day at random, I receive the notification “Time to BeReal: 2 min left to capture a BeReal and see what your friends are up to.” No matter where I am or what I am doing, I have to take two photos simultaneously; one is a selfie and the other is whatever is in front of me. The only way to enter the app is to post photos and there’s only one post per day. There is no mindless scrolling on BeReal. Why? Because it’s boring as hell.
Swiping through my friends’ posts I am met with selfies overlapping steering wheels, laptop screens and bedroom walls. Very seldom is the notification sent out at a time when anyone is doing something worth posting, but that’s the fun of it. We so desperately want the notification to go off when we are out at a bar or a concert, maybe even the beach. The odds of that happening are slim unless you ignore the notification and post later in the day—which will notify your friends that you have “posted a late BeReal.”
There is almost a sense of nostalgia with it too. Bringing Millennials and Gen Z alike back to the days when social media was boring. When Instagram was used casually rather than
Social media has become a double-edged sword. What was once used as a way to keep up with friends has turned into an addictive, mind-numbing “hobby.” Skimming through the FYP (for you page) on TikTok for extended periods of time can lead to problems with attention, concentration and short-term memory. I fall victim to all of the above.
It’s impossible and not entirely desirable to be “real” on any other social media. The simplification of BeReal’s success is that it will not make anyone famous. There is no want to present yourself as anything other than that—yourself. You cannot become an influencer like on TikTok or Instagram. There is no hierarchy. Just friends posting boring photos. A true throwback to the early 2000s. There is no room to overshare or create a permanent record of an alternate self. All posts disappear by the time the next BeReal notification hits our screens.
Now we wait to see if other social media powerhouses adapt to BeReals’ allure. Only time will tell, perhaps only two minutes.
Words & interview by Rob Nicholson
Dean Winter is likely one of the most unassuming guys you’ll ever meet. Very easy going and relaxed, he’s calming to be around. But stick around until showtime, and you’ll see a very different Dean Winter. When he takes the stage with The Heat, he’s his own inner country star.
From Winter’s website: “With every passing release Winter evolves as a songwriter finding details in the experience to draw each listener closer. You feel the push and pull between winning and losing and the fleeting euphoria of a dimly lit bar as reality flickers back into existence when the lights come on. The sun rises and this light shines on your heartache and all the overwhelming feelings that come with growing up and growing old next to the ones you love. Ultimately, the music is best left to be experienced and these stories felt, not told.”
You can find all things Dean Winter & The Heat including music, videos, schedule and press at deanwinterandtheheat.com.
NOV. 4
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 5 Porchfest jacksonvilleporchfest.org
NOV. 12 Jacksonville Fairgrounds jacksonvillefair.com
NOV. 18-19
Fly's Tie instagram.com/flys_tie_/
NOV. 25 - 26, 2022 Sherwood's facebook.com/sherwoodsbarjax
DEC. 8
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 1
Beabadoobee: Beatopia North America
‘22 Underbelly underbellyjax.com
NOV. 2
Tyler Bryant & The Shake Down
Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
NOV. 2-3
Lauren Daigle
St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
NOV. 3
Chiddy Bang Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Fortunate Child, Raspberry Pie plus Alchematic Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Country Night, band TBA Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 4
Floyd Nation Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Steep Canyon Rangers
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Puttin' On The Ritz Live Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
Antiseen, Left on High and Chalk Tiger Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Smallpools, Dreamers and Young Rising Sons
1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Paula Cole was literally plucked from obscurity in 1993 by Peter Gabri el when she replaced Sinead O’Connor on the 1993-94 Secret World Tour. Since then, she’s been a multi-Grammy winner in various catego ries including Singer/Performer, Songwriter and Producer. Paula was an instrumental part of the team that put together and toured with The Lilith Fair and Cole has been on the voice faculty at Berklee College of Music while continuing an active performing career. In anticipation of her Concert on November 20th with Sophie B. Hawkins at the Thrash er-Horne Center, after twenty years since they last spoke, Paula caught up with Folio’s Rob Nicholson to Catch up.
LISTEN TO INTERVIEW HERE
Steelin’ Peaches Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Zauntee,Yung Drew and Shayne The Prophet
Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
Dean Winter & The Heat
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 4-5
Alabama with special guest The Red Clay Strays
St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Jacksonville Symphony: The Paul Simon Songbook
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
JU Vocal Jazz Choral Fest
Jacksonville University–Terry Concert Hall ju.edu/cfa
NOV. 5
Turnpike Troubadours Daily’s Place dailysplace.com
PorchFest
Historic Springfield–east side of Main Street jacksonvilleporchfest.org
Evergreen Terrace: Burned Alive by Time 20th Anniversary Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Adam Ezra Group Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Mac Sabbath, Speedealer & Lung Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Man Apart and HNG 10 Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
NOV. 6
Brian Culbertson
Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Curtis Salgado Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Joshua Ray Walker, Margo Cilker and Dean Winter Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
The Wrecks and Arlie 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Sailor Jane’s Big Bless Up
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 8
New Music Concert Jacksonville University–Terry Concert Hall ju.edu/cfa
Legendary Shack Shakers with Jocephus and the George Jonestown Massacre and The Kreepy Tikis Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
NOV. 9
Joe Satriani Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
We the Kingdom Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Daddy’s Beemer, Soapbar and Shone Still Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
NOV. 10
Trent Harmon Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Kabaka Pyramid with Nattali Rize 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Tigers Jaw, Heart Attack and Glitterer Underbelly underbellyjax.com
“Nothing Left Unsung”
Jacksonville University–Terry Concert Hall ju.edu/cfa
NOV. 11
Jacksonville Symphony: Brahms’ “German Requiem” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
Celebrating Billy Joel: America’s Piano Man Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Samuel Herb and Paige Keiner Jack Rabbits jaxlieve.com Copeland 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Gimme Gimme Disco: A Dance Party Inspired by ABBA Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Disciple, The Protest and Amongst The Giants Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 12
Bonnie Raitt with special guest Marc Cohn St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
JU Wind Ensemble: “Child’s Play”
Jacksonville University–Terry Concert Hall ju.edu/cfa
The Nth Power and Electric Kif Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Hovvdy and girlpuppy Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
The Steel Wheels Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Petra and Kaliyl Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
NOV. 13
Corb Lund and guests
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
NOV. 14
Kottonmouth Kings, Crazy Town and Zeistencroix Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
NOV. 16
Paramore St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
NOV. 17
Kingdom Tour: Maverick City Music x Kirk Franklin
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
Cole Swindell: Back Down to the Bar Tour with special guests Ashley Cooke & Dylan Marlowe St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Eric Hutchinson Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Josh Ford & the Groove Bender
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 18
The Last Waltz: 2022 Tour featuring Warren Haynes and Don Was with Jamey Johnson, Kathleen Edwards and more St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Marshall Tucker Band Thrasher-Horne Center thcenter.org
Perpetual Groove 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Pinto
Underbelly underbellyjax.com
The Canvas Bereft, Tom Bennett Band and Ghostwich
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Jennifer Knapp & Sarah Peacock Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Colonial Oak Music Park, St Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 18-19
Jacksonville Symphony: Rocky Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
NOV. 19
The Millennium Tour: Turned Up! featuring Bow Wow, Mario and Keri Hilson VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
Cody Johnson with special guest Randy Houser & Randall King St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Tauren Wells Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Ethan Tucker, Thrive! and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
A Night for Nolan Neal Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Ramona & The Riot!
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 20
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Paula Cole and Sophie B. Hawkins Thrasher-Horne Center thcenter.org
Paul Nelson Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
Let’s Ride Brass Band
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 25
The Hip Abduction with Joe Samba and Sierra Lane
Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works intuitionaleworks.com
Eric Sommer and Old Wicked Hen Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Baba Caiman
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 26
Lindsey Stirling: Snow Waltz Tour Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com
Jenni Reid Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Bad Dog Mama
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
NOV. 27
Keep Flying, Danny Attack and guests Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
A Night with DJ PAUL 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
NOV. 30
Allman Family Revival Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Mike Zito Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
The traditions of Thanksgiving dinner haven’t gone away completely, but in the last few years, the world has certainly changed and more than anyone would have ever thought. The days of spending several days in the kitchen to get ready for a meal that will get eaten in 15-20 minutes have been falling by the wayside for years.
Fortunately, restaurants, retailers and caterers have realized the need and offer fully prepared meals you just heat and eat. As expected, offerings vary but are typically served family style. Some packages can be personalized and even come with dessert. Most can be ordered online or by telephone, just do it fast because Thanksgiving will be here before you know it.
For those of you who do decide to carry on the tradition of preparing a homemade meal and need to make a last-minute trip to the grocery store, we’ve included their holiday hours as well. And if you don’t see your favorite grocery store or restaurant on the list, ask if they are doing Thanksgiving meals to go.
Chef’s Garden Catering & Events cateringjacksonville.com
The Fresh Market thefreshmarket.com
Harvey’s harveyssupermarket.com
Kathy’s Table kathystable.com
Khloe's Kitchen khloeskitchen.com
Prati Italia pratiitalia.com
Publix publix.com
Silkie’s Chicken & Champagne Bar meetatsilkies.com
Sprouts sprouts.com
Trader Joe’s traderjoes.com
Whole Foods wholefoods.com
Winn Dixie winndixie.com
Cliff’s Bar and Grille
Live music, Friday and Saturday cliffsbarandgrill.com
Gusto
Live music throughout the week gustojax.com
Lemon Bar & Grille
Live music throughout the week lemonbarjax.com
Lynch’s Irish Pub
Live music all week lynchsirishpub.com
Mango’s Karaoke, Sunday and Wednesday mangosjaxbeach.com
Mavi’s Waterfront Bar & Grill
Live music, Friday–Sunday mavijax.com
Monkey’s Uncle Tavern
DJ, Tuesdays; live music, Thursday, Friday and Sunday; karaoke, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday monkeysuncletavern.com
Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill
Live music, Friday–Sunday palmvalleyoutdoors.com
The Ritz Lounge
DJs and dancing, Friday–Sunday theritzlounge.com
The Shim Sham Room
Burlesque shows, Wednesday; DJs and danc ing, Friday–Sunday shimshamroom.com
Surfer The Bar
DJs and dancing, Friday–Sunday surferthebar.com
Electronic Thursdays, Nov. 3, 17; Thrive Friday: Nov. 4; various DJs, Nov. 5. mythexperience.com
The Volstead
Swing dance night, every third Sunday of the month. thevolsteadjax.com
Mr. Chubby’s Wings
Live music, Friday mrchubbyswings.com
Mercury Moon
Live music, Monday and Wednesday facebook.com/Mercury-Moon
Sunset Tiki Bar
Live music Friday–Sunday the-sunset-tiki-bar.business.site
Live music, Saturday and Sunday whiteysfishcamp.com
Enza’s Live piano music,Tuesday–Sunday enzas.net
Buchner’s Bierhalle
Live music, Wednesday buchnersbierhalle.com
The Stout Snug
Nov. 4: Mad Hatter Trio; Nov. 5: 1 Hot Mess; Nov. 11: Paul Lundgren Band; Nov. 12: Spade McQuade; Nov. 18: Mr. Bill Show; Nov. 19: Jig
To a Milestone; Nov. 25: Six Pack Sam; Nov. 26: Dueling Pianos with Tom Bennett thestoutsnug.com
The Walrus
Daily entertainment Tuesday–Sunday thewalrusjax.com
57 Heaven DJs, Wednesday–Friday facebook.com/57HeavenOP
Big Dawgs Sports Restaurant
Karaoke/live music, Wednesday bigdawgsrestaurant.com
Cheers Park Avenue
Live music, Friday–Sunday cheersparkave.com
The Daq Shack
Karaoke, Wednesday; live music, Sunday thedaqshack904.com
Dee’s Music Bar and Grill
Live music, Friday and Saturday facebook.com/musicbarandgrill
Karaoke, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday; DJs, Friday and Sunday localspub.co
Tom and Betty’s Live music, Friday and most Saturdays tomandbettys.net
Birdies
Various DJs throughout the week facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints
Brick Restaurant
Live jazz on weekends brickofavondale.com
Casbah Cafe
Live jazz, Sunday; belly dancing, Friday and Saturday thecasbahcafe.com
Live music, Friday and Saturday; Reggae with DJ Brooks, Sunday garagejax.com
Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge
Spoken word poetry and DJ Swagg, Tuesday; live music, Friday and Saturday jazzysrestau rant.net
Arcade bar with daily events kegandcoinjax.com
Karaoke, Tuesday; DJ Robbie P, Thursday; DJ Brooks, Friday; DJ Robbie P, Saturday loftjax.com
Live music throughout the week instagram.com/raindogs5points
River & Post
Nov. 4: Ryan Campbell; Nov. 5: Katherine Kincaid; Nov. 5: Eric Charlton; Nov. 11: Eric Charlton; Nov. 12: Katherine Kincaid; Nov. 18: Ryan Campbell; Nov. 19: Eric Charlton; Nov. 25: Eric Charlton riverandpostjax.com
Silent disco, Friday–Sunday facebook.com/RootDownJax
Breezy Jazz House
DJ, Wednesday; live jazz, Friday and Saturday breezyjazzhouse.com
Cuba Libre Ultra Lounge
DJs, Thursday; DJ Alekz Vibration, Friday and Saturday cubalibrebar.com
Fore Score Golf Tavern
Live music, Thursday and Saturday forescoregolf.com
The Mudville Grill
TBA Big Band, first and third Monday; River City Rhythm Kings, second Monday themudvillegrill.com
Culhane’s Karaoke, Saturday culhanesirishpub.com
Jax Craft Beer
Live music, Friday jaxcraftbeer.com
Acoustic music, Wednesday; karaoke, Thursday; live music, Friday and Saturday; acoustic open mic night, Sunday arnoldslounge.com
Nov. 2: Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown; Nov. 3: Chiddy Bang; Nov. 4: Crass & The Curios Comedy Showcase; Nov. 5: Adam Ezra Group; Nov. 6: Curtis Salgado; Nov. 10: Trent Harmon; Nov. 11: Slambovian Circus of Dreams; Nov. 17: Eric Hutchinson; Nov. 18: Jennifer Knapp & Sar ah Peacock; Nov. 20: Paul Nelson; Nov. 30: Mike Zito originalcafe11.com
Cellar Upstairs Bar at San Sebastian Winery
Nov. 3: Ian Kelly; Nov. 4: Gary Douglas Campbell and Tony & Friends; Nov. 5: Vibe RW and The Carpetbag gers; Nov. 6: TJ Brown; Nov. 10: Tony Scozzaro; Nov. 11: Jolie and The Committee Band; Nov. 12: Caleb Joye and The Committee Band; Nov. 13: Vinny Jacobs; Nov. 17: Vinny Jacobs; Nov. 18: Caleb Joye and Bread & Butter; Nov. 19: Vibe RW and Yael & Gabriel; Nov. 20: Vinny Jacobs; Nov. 25: Caleb Joye and The Committee Band; Nov. 26: TJ Brown and The Vibe; Nov. 27: Vinny Jacobs sansebastianwinery.com
Cookin’ in the Kitchen Jazz Jam, Wednesday; Bluegrass Jam, Sunday; Nov. 1: Colton McKenna; Nov. 3: Brady Clampitt; Nov. 4: Whim and 21 Blue; Nov. 5: Ginger Beard and Shaun & Kristen; Nov. 7: Sam Pacetti; Nov. 8: Jim Johnson; Nov. 10: Chelsea Saddler; Nov. 11: Trae Pierce & The T -Stones and Esh x Schief; Nov. 12: Honey Hounds and The Raisin Cake Orchestra; Nov. 14: Jim Johnston; Nov. 15: Colton McKenna; Nov. 17: Freddy for Peace; Nov. 18: Chillula and Brady Clampitt; Nov. 19: Paper City Hustlers and Bottom Feeders; Nov. 21: Corey On Sax; Nov. 22: Jim Johnson; Nov. 25: Whim and Amy Hendrickson; Nov. 26: Cover Boy and Meshela; Nov. 28: Micah Gilliam; Nov. 29: Jim Johnston and Colton McKenna pkstaug.com
Live music throughout the week tradewindslounge.com
A rated list of holiday boozy drinks for those fun adults at the party (and maybe a mocktail or two for those who say no to alcohol)
5/5 stars (can also be made as a mocktail)
• Dip the rim of your champagne glass (or plastic glasses for you “oops” types) into gold sprinkles or a spice of your choice (think cinnamon, not thyme)
• Fill your glass halfway with apple cider (we won’t tell if you pour a little less; we like our mimosas like we like our stockings on Christmas Day … full of the fun stuff)
• Top off your drink with champagne (aka the fun stuff) or non-alcoholic bubbles for those in need of a mocktail.
• Garnish your drink with an apple slice and ENJOY THE BEST FALL BRUNCH DRINK
5/5 stars (can also be made as a mocktail)
• In a punch bowl, add plenty of ice. Pour in half a gallon of apple cider, one bottle of prosecco, a cup of vodka and two 12-ounce cans of gin ger beer. (If this looks like a little too much alcohol, sub alcohol-free bubbles for the prosecco (I’d use the holiday flavored Sprite) and take out the vodka … if you must.
• After mixing, add in sliced apples and oranges (as many as you like –the more fruit, the healthier I can say it is) and some cinnamon sticks. If you choose to rim your glass, you can use an orange slice and dip the rim into cinnamon sugar…it makes it feel fancier even if you’re sit ting alone at home watching The Haunted Mansion for the thirteenth time.
4/5 stars (no mocktail option, sorry but this one is for martini lovers only)
• Using a cocktail shaker, combine two shots of vanilla flavored vodka (This is already giving me potential hangover nightmares), one cup of Pumpkin Pie Cream Liquor (it is getting really sweet in here, and some ice.
• Pour into your martini glasses, topping with whipped cream and garnishing with a cinnamon stick.
• Add a quarter cup of blackberries into a glass then mash them up (whether you use a fancy muddler or just take a hammer to them is up to you). Add some mint leaves and work them a bit into the mix.
• Pour in ½- 1 ounce of simple syrup and 2 ounces of gin and stir.
• Add ice, 2 ounces of prosecco and 1 ounce of club soda.
• Stir slowly and drink to your heart’s content.
This can be made as a mocktail; just replace the prosecco with kids’ champagne – you know the stuff that Welches makes that you drink on NYE until you’re sick to your stomach – 86 the gin and boom … there you go, a tasty juice.
• Add 3 cups of chilled cranberry juice and chilled orange juice and stir.
• Add in a 2-liter bottle of Cranberry Sprite Zero (those kids have had enough sugar) and stir.
• Pour over cups of ice and enjoy the sound of content children.
As always, all alcoholic drinks mentioned are for those of us 21 and over. Please drink responsibly and enjoy your holidays. And if you make these a little early, before the holiday parties start … I won’t judge.
Words by Harry Moore
David Gordon Green directs the closing chapter in his Halloween tril ogy which promises to be the final clash between the mask wearing killer, Michael Myers and Jamie Lee Curtis’ original final girl Laurie Strode. Halloween Ends takes place four years after the events of the previous two films, 2018’s Halloween and last year’s Halloween Kills, with the constantly terrorised town of Haddonfield grappling with the communal trauma that Michael has inflicted upon them. That trauma manifests in the townsfolk looking for a new bogeyman as Michael has disappeared into the shadows since his last batch of kill ings. That ire falls on Corey Cunningham (Rohan Campbell) a young man who was at the centre of another tragedy to happen in the area. As Corey is cast out of the community, he falls down a dark path and eventually takes on the mantel, and mask, that Michael left behind.
Green’s trilogy has been divisive and had some ups and downs over its course. The first entry did a good job of streamlining the narrative to connect it directly with John Carpenter’s original slasher classic, doing away with all of the continuity from the other sequels of the 40-year-old series. Green’s first entry was well received and widely considered to be one of the better films in the franchise as a whole, reinvigorating the character of Michael Myers and making him scary for a modern generation of filmgoers. However, his follow up, Hal loween Kills, was a misfire that seemed to only exist as a means of setting the table for the final chapter, which Halloween Ends largely ignores in favour of a more stand-alone character driven story - about a character who is introduced in this trilogy capper. Green’s tone for his films has been decidedly more serious than some of the schlocky outings from the later sequels of the series, which was a benefit to his initial reboot. But with this film’s ludicrous plot, a lighter touch may have helped it, as the self-serious nature in the end product makes this dour and dull watch.
As a solo entry in the Halloween series, it is an interesting take on the proceedings. Seeing Michael’s evil transfer to another person is a fresh approach to a concept that can easily turn stale. As an end ing to an ongoing story, and a final encounter between Michael and Laurie as it was billed, it is a failure. It is a strange decision to make Corey the main focus of the film, and it may have been a gamble that paid off, but unfortunately newcomer Rohan Campbell just isn’t up to the challenge as a performer of making this character engaging or his arc believable. This issue is compounded when you consider that this film was supposed to be Jamie Lee Curtis’ swansong as Laurie Strode, who is relegated to a supporting player through most of the film. Side lining an actor of Curtis’ calibre, who has been a beacon of charisma for decades, for a more unproven, leaden performer is to the movie’s detriment, and is far from what much of the audience would be hoping to see. Halloween Ends closes the story of Laurie Strode and Michael Myers, yet somehow tricks both characters, fail ing to give either one a worthy send off.
Podcaster and sometimes filmmaker Kevin Smith returns to the New Jersey convenience store that launched his career and made him an indie sensation with the final misadventure of perennial cashiers Dante and Randall. Upon its release in 1994, the black and white low budget comedy Clerks quietly became one of the most influential films of that era, inspiring a generation of wide-eyed aspiring direc tors to pick up a camera and share their stories. The film’s dialogue also preceded the obsession over minute details in Star Wars and comic books that has come to dominate modern film discourse. And, of course, it marked the first appearance of Jay and Silent Bob, the most iconic stoner duo since Cheech and Chong. over a decade af ter that, Smith made Clerks II, which remains on the incredibly short list of comedy sequels that surpasses the original, not only bringing colour to Leonardo, New Jersey, but developing the characters into multi-dimensional figures that showed how far Smith had come as a writer. And now, another decade or so removed from the last entry in the Clerks saga, Smith completes his trilogy by looking back to his debut.
Clerks III picks up with a depressed Dante and static Randall, still working at the Quick Stop convenience store in their mid-forties. After Randall survives an almost fatal heart attack, he has an epiphany that he will not be remembered and has wasted his life watching movies, he then makes the invigorating decision to make his own movie. With the help of Dante, and Jay and Silent Bob, who have now purchased the neighbouring video store, turned it into a dispensary and serve their customers via sketchy handshakes in the parking lot like it was still the nineties, Randall directs a movie about his life working at the convenience store. From there, the rag tag film crew would create a movie that looks remarkably similar to the original Clerks.
Smith has clearly taken inspiration from his own life, having a sur vived a heart attack himself, he became inspired to tell this story of Randall reseizing his life following a near death experience. Like the other two Clerks films, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments that show Smith’s flourish for colourful, and often hilarious, exple tive-filled dialogue. And while Clerks II was able to balance its come dy with some more serious and heart touching moments, this film is far more melancholic and downright depressing for anyone who has been a long-time fan of the series. Seeing these characters, partic ularly Dante, go through so much trauma was some difficult viewing at points, and isn’t what anyone would want for them. Given the very autobiographic nature of the film, it is a surprise that Smith would close this trilogy on such a tragic note.
16 CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND
2 THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES FOR SCHOOLS
3 UNTOLD STORIESBUILDING BRIDGES
4 STEEP CANYON RANGERS
VEDRA CONCERT HALL
4 FLOYD NATIONEXPERIENCE PINK FLOYD
6 BRIAN CULBERTSON
9 WE THE KINGDOM
11 CELEBRATING
DEBBIE GIBSON’S WINTERLICIOUS AT THE WJCT SOUNDSTAGE
A LIVE CONVERSATION WITH RON PERLMAN + A SCREENING OF HELLBOY
NUTCRACKER!
CHRISTMAS BALLET
9 LITTLE RIVER BAND
10 THE LORDS OF 52ND STREETLEGENDS OF THE BILLY JOEL BAND
GET THE LED OUT
GORDON LIGHTFOOT
24 AARON LEWIS ACOUSTIC TOUR
SAM MORRIL
UNTOLD STORIESWINDS OF CHANGE
OUR PLANET
2 GAELIC STORM & THE HIGH KINGS
THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM FOR SCHOOLS
19 SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX
20 JIM GAFFIGAN
JIM GAFFIGAN
JIM GAFFIGAN
MADAGASCAR - THE MUSICAL
At 4AM on Thursday, October 27th, while most of us were still asleep, the first general admission ticket holders were arriving outside of Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina to line up for Greta Van Fleet’s Dreams in Gold tour. Waiting in line at 4AM for a 7PM show may seem excessive, but that’s just the half of it - literally. This show wasn’t set to begin at 7PM October 27th, it was scheduled for 7PM October 28th. When these fans arrived, armed with sleeping bags, blankets, and folding chairs, they were signing up for a 39 hour wait outside in the cold, Charlotte air. While camping is a common occur rence at Greta Van Fleet concerts, this was the longest wait many had witnessed. For these dedicated members of the fanbase, which has been nicknamed the Peaceful Army after the band’s first album, it was a small price to pay for a one way ticket to the barricade.
The Michigan rock band consisting of brothers Jake (guitar), Josh (vocals) and Sam Kiszka (bass/keys), and drummer Danny Wagner released their sophomore album The Battle at Garden’s Gate in April 2021. During this time Covid lockdowns prevented a tour from accom panying the release but, in March 2022, the first date on the Dreams in Gold tour finally arrived. With a full year packed with shows and very few breaks, complications were bound to arise. Unfortunately for the southeast, all Florida dates were among the handful of shows that fell victim to circumstance. After rupturing an eardrum during the band’s performance in Bangor, Maine in early October, vocalist Josh Kiszka was forced to take time off to heal. A total of five shows are now set to be rescheduled, including Jacksonville, Tampa and Hollywood, Florida. In the days leading up to Friday’s show, online forums were wild with speculation on if and when Charlotte would join the list of canceled shows. While some dates had been given multiple days' notice, others did not know until the day before. When those first 100+ joined the line on Thursday, they did so not knowing for sure if there would be a show at all. Thursday afternoon came and went with no cancellation announcement and, at 6:30PM Friday, the doors were finally opened to thousands of relieved fans.
Rock duo Crown Lands and R&B group Durand Jones & The Indi cations provided support as opening acts before Greta’s 9PM set time. After a short but upbeat set of 4 songs from Crown Lands and a longer, mellower set from Durand Jones & The Indications, the crowd was all warmed up and ready for the main event. During the change over a large curtain plastered with symbols representing the tracks on Garden’s Gate was raised around the perimeter of the stage. As showtime neared, the lights dimmed until the arena was lit only by the glow of cell phones, camera apps opened and ready. A recording of Josh’s voice backed by pounding drums cut through the roars of the crowd as a strobing effect behind the curtain cast a silhouette of the set. The intro continued with a spoken monologue from Josh underscored with an acoustic rendition of “The Weight of Dreams,” the finale of Garden’s Gate. Modified lyrics from the track conclude the recording. In the end we will spend the weight of dreams in gold, Josh says, followed by a swelling instrumental that transitioned to the opening song, “Built By Nations.” White lights cut to a bold red and, when the first riff hit, the curtain dropped to reveal the band. In this moment I couldn’t help but wish they opened with “When the Curtain Falls” (I’m a sucker for the simple things), but that thought was quick ly eclipsed by one of the most catching songs on the album. After a solo from guitarist Jake Kiszka, large plumes of fire blasted from goblet shaped structures at the back of the stage. Since this tour is truly a celebration of the music from Garden’s Gate, most songs on the setlist were from this newest release. Fan favorites includ ing “Light My Love” and “Heat Above” are staples of the setlist and are played at every show, but there is always at least one wildcard thrown into the mix. While on paper the nine song setlist may seem short, extended songs, solos and a 20 minute encore create a full 2 hour set. Rather than just playing through their recorded discogra phy, the band provides an experience that is unmatched. After “Sa fari Song,” drummer Danny Wagner performs an 8 minute long solo during which Josh hands out white roses to fans in the front of the pit and, closing out the main set, an unbridled 15 minute version of “The Weight of Dreams” is a journey all on its own. From the words of Josh, you bought the ticket, now it’s time to take the ride.
Greta Van Fleet was scheduled to perform at VyStar Veterans Me morial Arena on October 21st. The band has yet to announce a new date, but it is expected to be rescheduled soon.
Burton said. “Nobody liked making pies so they said you can just make the pies for us and so I started doing that and then I started getting good.”
Located behind a row of businesses in Riverside, through a path filled with greenery and florals, one will find the pie shop, Mixed Fillings. Though you may not see it immediately in passing, you’ll definitely be able to smell it. It’s as if Chef Natasha Burton places a freshly baked pie on the windowsill, allowing the aromas to attract hungry passer-byers.
It all started when Burton got an Easy-Bake-Oven for Christmas when she was just five years old. It was when the light blew out in the toy oven, that the light within turned on, she loved baking. She begged her mom for a new oven for years, but it wouldn’t be until Burton was ten years old that she would upgrade to using a real oven.
Still, the idea of one day running a pie shop was out of sight for Burton. After graduating from Culinary school, Burton got a job as a cake decorator.
“I was hired to be a cake decorator, but I had no experience and so they said they were gonna banish me to the pie department,”
Despite being ‘banished’ there, Burton gave her all into baking and learned to love baking pies for more reasons than one. As the saying goes, when life gives you lemons, you make lemon ade, or in this case, pie.
“I found it was very therapeutic for me,” Burton said. “I'm a survi vor of childhood sexual abuse and I have C-PTSD and, I realized when I was baking that just the repetitive motion and just, you know, like the aromas and just everything about baking, it really, really helped to relax my anxiety, [and] relax the depression I was having.”
Through the power of baking, Burton healed. And having found baking pie to be a joyful experience, it was just the beginning of a long, successful journey. Along with her friends, Burton was trying to figure out the best way to market their non-profit “Soci ety of Survivors”, which is when she got the idea of pie and com munity being inherently tied. For pie invites the idea of sharing.
“And then I just kind of put two and two together,” Burton said.
“How else do you get people to share food.”
Having originally started during the pandemic, ‘Mixed Fillings’ began solely as a delivery service. With the plans of initially wanting to be wholesale becoming difficult with restaurants be ing closed, Burton took matters into her own hands.
“We decided to just go direct to the consumer,” Burton said. “So I, uh, built a website on Squarespace and took a photography workshop from a science teacher here and put the pictures on there.”
Burton recalls her aunt being proud when she sent over the link to her website before it was even official. So much so that her aunt shared the link through Facebook, unaware that the web site was not live yet. Burton immediately started getting orders. The business took off on its own, eventually leading up to the opening of the speakeasy pie shop on Oak st. Still, since Burton is all about growth and sharing, there are plans to expand and eventually make ‘Mixed Fillings’ a franchise.
“We wanna actually turn it into a franchise and actually be able to help women of color like myself to start their own businesses,” Burton said.
I walked away with a slice of ‘Blurred Limes’, ‘Pure Bliss’ (lemon, lavender), ‘Wake Me Up Before You Cocoa’, and ‘Peanut Butter and Jealous’. Needless to say, not a single person at your holi day parties will have mixed feelings about this pie. After all, pie is the perfect dessert to have at the dinner table for it is meant to be shared.
When it comes to running a business, Burton knows what she's doing, regardless of being self-taught. Most of her inspiration and will to run a business stems from her love for her family and her love to share. When her son was “stinking” up the house with store-bought, microwavable chicken pot pies, Burton decided it was time to come up with a recipe of her own. Just one of many recipes inspired by Burton’s personal life.
“You can be a woman that has a business and has a family and enjoys both,” Burton said. “And it's because of my family that I do the things that I do. That's what drives me. That's what drives me to have the type of hours that I have, to create the types of products that I have.”
Baking pie has resulted in a lot of full-circle moments for Burton. Ironically, having been banished to the pie department since she had no experience decorating cakes, now Burton’s favorite part about baking pies is the decorating part. She also recalled an other surreal moment when she was doing a photo shoot for her business. She was getting her makeup done while two little girls sat next to her and looked at her like she was a model.
“I never thought I would be in a position where I'd have little kids look up to me,” Burton said. “It's so cool to just know that there's people that are looking up to you and I feel like I have to do this so other people know they can.”
