Gulf Coast Buzz (March 6 – 19, 2015)

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Your 14-day guide to fun, food and entertainment

FEATURES Ice cream sandwich delight Cheryl’s Cafe

ARTS AND CRAFTS

BBQ and Blues Foley hosts outdoor festival Model train heaven in Foley

Fairhope holds 63rd festival

MARCH 6 – 19, 2015 Gulf Coast Media

Vol. 1 Issue 22

MARCH 6 – 19

In-depth Baldwin County calendar and live music listings in every issue!

bbtb_buzz2-24_ad_Layout 1 2/26/15 8:25 AM Page 1

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GulfCoastNewsToday.com

March 6 – 19, 2015

New Spring/Summer Menu Welcome Spring Breakers Chef Jon Gibson’s new seasonal menu features subtle touches of Southern, Pacific Rim, Southwest, and European cuisines, to emphasize the fresh, seasonal ingredients Chef Jon incorporates into his distinctive dishes. View our new menu at bbtb.com.

With great live music, amazing food, The Turtle Bar is a perfect spot for you and your friends to kick back after work and celebrate late into the night. Relax to local entertainment on our openair deck. Join us for cocktails, wine flights, craft beers and dancing at The Turtle Nest under the deck. As we like to say, “Get Your Turtle Dirty at The Turtle Bar!” Spring/Summer Hours 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM Daily

Live Music Friday, Mar 6, Barstool Surfers, 7-10 Saturday, Mar 7, Sam Glass +1, 7-10 Saturday, Mar 7, Mental Extract, 10-til Sunday, Mar 8, Mental Extract, noon-til Sunday, Mar 8, Joshua Ward (solo), 5-9:30 Thu, Mar 12, Damien Lamb, 5-7 Friday, Mar 13, Sam Glass, 7-10

Saturday, Mar 14, Lisa Zanghi, 7-10 Saturday, Mar 14, Mental Extract, 10-til Sunday, Mar 15, Mental Extract, noon-til Thursday, Mar 19, Lisa Zanghi, 7-10 Friday, Mar 20, Barstool Surfers, 7-10 Saturday, Mar 21, Barstool Surfers, 7-10 Saturday, Mar 21, Mental Extract, 10-til

Music Schedule subject to change

251-948-5227 | 300 West Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542 bbtb.com | facebook.com/billsbythebeachgulfshores From Hwy 59, 2 Blocks Right on Hwy 182

March 6 – 19, 2015

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Gulf Coast BUZZ n 3 gulf coast

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Letter from the editor

FOOD

{

Your 14-day guide to fun, food and entertainment

The beginning of March signals springtime here in Baldwin County — with a few chilly days tucked in between — and that means one thing: it’s festival time!

Beginning the weekend of March 13 – 14, there are several festivals every weekend until we get to the sweltering days of July.

Here are activities scheduled for the next two weeks: Robertsdale Rotary Rodeo kicks off our events this issue on March 13 – 14, and marks the group’s 16th annual PCA Championship Rodeo. Proceeds from this event will be given to local charities.

Orange Beach Festival of Art will be March 14 and 15 at the Orange Beach Coastal Art Center. View works of art, glass and clay demonstrations and listen to some of the local musicians while perusing.

Arts and Crafts Festival attracts artists and visitors from all over the United States as it enters its 63rd year in Fairhope March 20 – 22. In addition to the craft festival, the Outdoor Art Show will be held at the Eastern Shore Art Center and the surrounding area.

The Foley Model Train Show is March 21 and 22 in the Foley Civic Center. Kids and adults of all ages will find interest in the model trains on display and available for purchase. Take a short walk and explore Foley’s Train Depot and museum. The museum and depot will be open the same hours as the train show.

While you’re at the train show, stop by Foley’s BBQ & Blues Cook-Off March 21. Vote for your favorite barbecue and help raise money for the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation.

Spring Fever Chase will be held March 21 less than a mile from the Fairhope Pier. The 10K race or 2-mile fun run/walk is an annual event that attracts all ages from every corner of the county.

Other events happening during this time are the Heritage Arts and Camellia Festival in Elberta, First Friday Art Walk in Fairhope, First Friday Family Nights in Bay Minette and the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Market in Gulf Shores — just to name a few.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

MARCH 6 – 19, 2015 Gulf CoAst MedIA

Vol. 1 Issue 22

I Comments and concerns

I In racks, boxes and locations throughout Baldwin County

I Live local music listings

gulf coast

Social Media I On Facebook: Gulf Coast Newspapers On Twitter: @gcntoday

MARCH 6 – 19

Cover photo is courtesy of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce.

ABOUT THE COVER The 63rd Arts and Crafts Festival will take place March 20 – 22 in Fairhope.

Enjoy a variety of arts and crafts, foods and performers, such as belly dancers, area school bands and local musicians.

Find out more on page 5.

Allison Woodham: allison@gulfcoastmedia.com

I Events calendar

Allison Woodham: allison@gulfcoastmedia.com Destiny Brown: dbrown@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

I Advertising

Eastern Shore pat@gulfcoastmedia.com and North Baldwin rebecca@gulfcoastmedia.com Central Baldwin and South Baldwin

Model train heaven in foley

In-depth Baldwin County calendar and live music listings in every issue!

Look for us submissions I In all four Gulf Coast Media newspapers: The Times Independent, The Foley Onlooker, The Islander and The Courier

BBQ and Blues Foley hosts outdoor festival

Fairhope holds 63rd festival

Prepare to pack your schedules!

I On GulfCoastNewsToday.com

FEATURES Ice cream sandwich delight Cheryl’s Cafe

jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com brad@gulfcoastmedia.com frank@gulfcoastmedia.com

Your guide to fun, food and entertainment on the Gulf Coast.

Publishes the first and third Friday of each month.

Look for our next issue Friday, March 20.

gulf coast

4 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Your guide to fun, food and entertainment on the Gulf Coast.

Publisher Sudie Gambrell

sgambrell@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Editor Allison Woodham

allison@gulfcoastmedia.com

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Paige Renka

prenka@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Contributing Editors Destiny Brown Eric Mann Cliff McCollum John Mullen Jay Sowers John Underwood

ContributoRS

City of Foley Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Infirmary Health Jill Clair Gentry Scott Gentry Blake Maraman Fletcher McKinney Courtland Richards Jon Robitaille

advertising Jeniece Bouzan Rebecca Brookins Brad Day Pat Johnson Frank Kustura

Gulf Coast Media 21764 Media Dr., Robertsdale, AL 36567 251-947-7712 GulfCoastNewsToday.com

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

March 6 – 19, 2015

WHAT’S INSIDE COVER STORY

5

63rd annual Arts and Crafts Festival Visit Fairhope’s largest festival of the year. 5

WHERE TO GO Foley BBQ & Blues Cook-Off Tasty barbecue, great music, auctions, crafts and more. 8 Robertsdale Rotary Rodeo It’s rodeo time! 9 Foley Model Train Show Enter model train heaven. 19

14

FAMILY FUN March events Fun for the whole family this month. 10

A&E Culturally Speaking 41st annual Orange Beach Festival of Art. 17 The Buzz on the Coast 14 Days, our comprehensive calendar. 11 Local Live Music Baldwin County music listings. 20

FOOD

OUTDOORS

Recipes Ice cream sandwich delight. 14

Spring Fever Chase Ready, set, go! 7

Chew on This Restaurant Review: Cheryl’s Cafe. 22 Tastings The APCs of Lenten wines. 18 Oktoberfest. 18

Aiming and Angling Sheepshead. 15

BOOKS/GAMES Between the Pages “A Tiny Bit Marvellous” by Dawn French. 16

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 5

ABOUT THE COVER

years of arts and crafts

L

ine the streets of downtown Fairhope March 20 – 22 for the 63rd annual Arts and Crafts Festival presented

by PNC Bank.

More than 230 exhibitors from throughout the nation will bring their best work to show and sell at this prestigious juried show.

Live entertainment will be going on throughout the three-day event and unique cuisine will be served up in the food court.

Forget searching for a parking spot and take the shuttle for $2. BRATS (Baldwin County Area Transportation System) will shuttle from the Plantation Pointe Shopping Center, Ecor Rouge Place Center, Eastern Shore Village Center and the east side of Volanta Sports Complex. All of the parking is free and the locations are less than five

minutes away from downtown.

Free valet parking for bicycles will be provided behind the Fairhope Museum of History. Handicapped parking will be located in the Municipal Parking Lot on Bancroft.

Enjoy a weekend of countless arts and crafts, food and good times in downtown Fairhope.

did you know?

Last year, the event attracted more than 250,000 visitors to the area.

if you go WHAT: 63rd annual Arts and Crafts Festival WHEN: March 20 – 22; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Downtown Fairhope COST: Free admission FIND OUT MORE: ESChamber.com; 251-621-8222; 251-928-6387

photos courtesy of the eastern shore chamber of commerce

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GulfCoastNewsToday.com

March 6 – 19, 2015

Come Experience

4 Miles From The Beach On Highway 59

Shopping

Target Bed Bath & Beyond Books A Million Accessories Galore/Bag Lady Dollar Tree GNC Hibbett Sports Jubilee Apparel and Gifts The Orchard Apple Specialists Little Monkey Toes Lovely Nails Mission 25 Hair Studio Sun Rays Sunglass Center The Beach House Boutique Too Hot Mamas

Dining & Entertainment

Cactus Flower Cobb Theater Cohiba Dunes Cigar Bar Dairy Queen Kitty’s Kafe Longhorn Steakhouse Mikato Japanese Steak House Papa’s Pizza Rafters Restaurant & Sports Bar

Visit us online at

thepelicanplace.com 3800 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251-968-3638

did you know?

The festival was chosen as one of the top 20 events in the Southeast for March by the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and one of the top 20 events selected by the Southeast Tourism Society.

About the artist: Jean McKee of Fairhope

The planning committee for the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce’s Art and Crafts Festival in Fairhope has made the selection of the official artwork for the 2015 show.

The artist selected is Jean McKee of Fairhope. The show is scheduled for March 20, 21 and 22.

Artist Jean McKee began her art career in 1982 by entering several pieces of her work in art shows around the Southeast, at shows from Miami to New Orleans. The first show she started with was the Fairhope Arts and Crafts. Jean has participated in more than 300 outdoor shows in the South and has been chosen to the paint the poster designs for 12 outdoor festivals.

Jean’s work was chosen for this year’s posters and T-shirts.

“This is the view that I have from my booth in front of the Chamber of Commerce,” Jean said.

Jean uses acrylics in a bright, bold style. Her distinctive artwork typifies the local scenes where she finds inspiration, like the serene image of a row of sailboats docked for the night or a nostalgic image of community gathering places, such as the Flora-Bama.

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 7

Ready, set, go!

OUTDOORS

T

he 37th annual Spring Fever Chase, a 10K race and 2-mile fun run/walk, winds through beautiful downtown Fairhope overlooking Mobile Bay on March 21.

The 10K race begins at 8 a.m. and the 2-mile fun run begins at 9:30 a.m. Online registration closes at midnight on March 17 and race day registration begins at 7 a.m. at the intersection of Fairhope Avenue and Bayview Street near the starting line. Visit the website to register.

The race is sponsored by Wells Fargo and Infirmary Health and proceeds benefit Baldwin County schools.

Every year Spring Fever Chase donates event proceeds to Baldwin County schools. Students and their families are encouraged to represent their schools in the Spring Fever Chase. Children less than age 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Entry forms for the school program are distributed through the schools. Forms and fees must be turned in to the schools. All participants who register through a school receive their T-shirts and race numbers at the school the week prior to the race.

if you go WHAT: Spring Fever Chase WHEN: Saturday, March 21; 10K, 8 a.m.; 2-mile, 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Fairhope Avenue and Bayview Street, Fairhope REGISTRATION: Before March 15, $10 – 20; after March 15 $15 –25 FIND OUT MORE: SpringFeverChase.com photo courtesy of infirmary health

Daphne Dvorak crosses the finish line of the 10K.

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GulfCoastNewsToday.com

March 6 – 19, 2015

WHERE TO GO

photos courtesy of fletcher mckinney

Smokin’ and finger lickin’ at Foley BBQ & Blues Cook-Off

By Jay Sowers GCM Photo Editor jay@gulfcoastmedia.com

T

he smell of tasty barbecue and the sounds of great music will fill the air at Foley’s Heritage Park on March 21 during the 7th annual Foley BBQ & Blues Cook-Off. Held the third Saturday in March, the event also features auctions, arts and crafts and children’s activities.

A huge crowd is expected once again to enjoy the delicious, finger-licking, grilled concoctions from competing barbecue teams.

Teams are made up of local companies and individuals competing for bragging rights and trophies in multiple categories including Grand Champion, Best Chicken, Best Boston Butt, People’s Choice, Best Sauce and Best Anything “Butt.”

Money raised during the annual Foley BBQ & Blues Cookoff support the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation, whose mission is to enhance lives through

if you go WHAT: Foley BBQ & Blues Cook-Off WHEN: March 21; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

WHERE: Foley Heritage Park FIND OUT MORE: 251-943-5550; Info@SBChamberFoundation.com

programs and partnerships that enrich education, develop leadership and better the community.

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 9

WHERE TO GO

Jordan Thomas of Foley poses with rodeo clown Brian Potter during Kid’s Night at the Robertsdale Rotary Club and Rotary Foundation’s 15th annual PCA Championship Rodeo in 2014.

It’s rodeo time!

By John Underwood

junderwood@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

T

he Robertsdale Rotary Club’s 16th annual PCA Championship Rodeo will be held Friday and Saturday, March 13 and 14 at the Baldwin County Fairgrounds arena in Robertsdale.

“We’re looking forward to a great event and we hope everyone will come out and support us for a good cause to benefit local charities,” said Chad Thomas, Rotary Club president for 2014-2015.

Baldwin EMC is the title sponsor for the event, which is produced by Bo Campbell Rodeo and is part of the Ram Rodeo Series.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. both nights with events beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the rodeo cost $12 for adults, $6 for ages 5 to 12 and free for children under 5. Friday night is Kid’s Night with free admission for all children under 12 when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Campbell Hardware in Robertsdale is again donating a Henry Golden Boy Colt .45 rifle and raffle tickets are being sold through Rotary Club members, Thomas said.

Each ticket costs $5 and a drawing will be held Saturday night. Tickets can be purchased through Rotary Club members or during the event.

submitted

if you go

ADVERTISE

WHAT: Robertsdale Rotary Rodeo WHEN: Friday and Saturday, March 13 and 14, 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Baldwin County Coliseum Arena, Robertsdale COST: Adults, $12; children (5 – 12), $6; children under 5, free; Friday night is Kid’s Night with free admission for all children under 12 WHO IT BENEFITS: Robertsdale Rotary Foundation to benefit local charities FIND OUT MORE: RobertsdaleRotary.com

WITH THE BUZZ

Get the word out about your business to a local audience!

For rates and more information email: Eastern Shore pat@gulfcoastmedia.com and North Baldwin rebecca@gulfcoastmedia.com Central Baldwin and South Baldwin

jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com brad@gulfcoastmedia.com frank@gulfcoastmedia.com

10 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

March 6 – 19, 2015

FAMILY FUN

A few March events for families: Here are three events kicking off in March that your family is sure to enjoy:

c Mann Eri

By Eric Mann eric@gulfcoastmedia.com

eric mann / staff

1

Friday, March 6

The Baldwin County Special Olympics

This event features approximately 250 awesome kids competing in events like the softball throw, long jump, tennis ball throw, wheelchair race and more. There’s also a torch run, parade of athletes from every public school in Baldwin County and a live DJ. The event kicks off at 9 a.m. at Fairhope Municipal Stadium.

2

saturday, March 7

3

March 7 – april 4

Heritage Arts and Camellia Festival

This family friendly event benefits the Baldwin County Heritage Museum in Elberta. This third annual festival features heritage artists, a camellia arrangement contest and a camellia bloom display. Visitors will be able to tour the museum’s more than 65-yearold camellia grove, learn the history of Baldwin County, and see historic skills demonstrated by expert.

The museum is located at 25521 U.S. 98 E. Admission is free.

Wales West Cottontail Express

This annual Easter-themed train ride event takes place Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. There will be a steam train ride, miniature train ride, Easter bunny visit, Easter egg hunt, pony rides, petting zoo and peep blaster cannon. The cost is $15 per person plus tax (two and younger are free). For more information, call 888-569-5337 or visit WalesWest.com.

Come Grow With Us MAYOR:

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER:

CITY COUNCIL:

CHIEF OF POLICE:

Charles Murphy Sue Cooper • Joe M. Kitchens Paul Hollingsworth Ruthie Campbell • Brent Kendrick

CITY CLERK: Shannon J. Hill

CITY ATTORNEY: Ken Raines

Ann Simpson

Brad Kendrick

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR: Scott Gilbert

CITY ENGINEER: Greg Smith

CITY JUDGE: Julian Brackin

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 11

the buzz on the coast

Tag your event photos with @GulfCoastBuzz on Facebook.

14 DAYS

Compiled by Allison Woodham Email calendar items to allison@gulfcoastmedia.com

Your guide to fun, food and entertainment ONGOING Ballroom Dance Classes Enjoy a buffet dinner, cash bar and one hour of dance instruction followed by one hour of open dance floor. Reservations are required. Partners are welcome, but not necessary.

I Wednesdays, 6 – 8 p.m.; Shipp’s Harbour Grill I $20 per person I 251-981-4119 Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market I Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; County Road 20, Foley I Free admission I CoastalAlabamaMarket.com; 251-943-1545 Ark of India: An Alabama artist explores southern Asia It is an account of late 19th and early 20th century India as seen by Alabama artist Roderick D. MacK-

Join Kim Teter and get your copy of “Isabella’s Libretto” signed at Page and Palette on March 11 from 4 – 6 p.m.

enzie, using his paintings, drawings, sculptures and most importantly, photographs and writings. MacKenzie spent more than a decade in India, a place he described as exotic, dangerous and colorful. MacKenzie was the official painter of the Delhi Durbar in 1903, which marked the coronation of King Edward VII. I Through Sept. 1; History Museum of Mobile I Adult, $7; seniors, $6; students, $5 I HistoryMuseumofMobile.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 First Friday Art Walk Begins at Fairhope Art Center, stroll through downtown Fairhope visiting art galleries and listening to music.

I 6 – 8 p.m.; downtown Fairhope I Free admission I 251-928-2228

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12 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

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the buzz on the coast First Friday Family Night The first movie shown at this fourpart series is “Captain America: The First Avenger.” It will feature kid’s activities, freebies from our chamber members, food trucks like Foosackly’s, Windcreek’s Good to Go food truck and Kona Ice and a free outdoor movie. The next movie will be April 3 and “Brave” will be shown.

I 8 p.m.; Blackburn Park, Bay Minette I Free admission

March 6 – 19, 2015 Florida-Georgia Line will be at The Wharf with special guests Thomas Rhett and Frankie Ballard on March 21 at 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Waterway Village Art Market Local and regional artists will set up their original works. This family friendly event will also include live musical entertainment, children’s hands-on art activities and concessions.

I 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Gallery I Free admission I GulfCoastArtsAlliance.com; 251-233-3970 Annual Fried Chicken Dinner Fundraiser Delivery is available on multiple plate orders. Dinners will include chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, cole slaw, green beans and

complimentary tea and dessert for dine-in guests. Proceeds will be used for monthly lodge expenditures.

I 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.; Sonora Masonic Lodge, Summerdale I Adult plate, $8.50; child plate, $5 I Sonora635.com; 251-423-7604

SUNDAY, MARCH 8 Watercolor Society of Alabama

74th National Annual Exhibition Fairhope native John Adams’ work will be on display.

I Through March 27; Eastern Shore Art Center, Fairhope I Free admission to galleries I 251-928-2228

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 “Isabella’s Libretto” Book Signing In her debut novel, Kim Teter tells the story of Isabella dal Cello, a

spirited, ambitious orphan who plays cello in Antonio Vivaldi’s remarkable all-female orchestra in Venice, Italy in 1715.

I 4 – 6 p.m.; Page and Palette, Fairhope I Free admission I PageAndPalette.com; 251-928-5295

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Robertsdale Rotary Rodeo For details, see pg. 9

March 6 – 19, 2015

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 Orange Beach Festival of Arts For details, see pg. 17

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 Sham Jam at The Wharf Come to The Wharf for a daylong event featuring special menus, offers, live music and more at The Wharf businesses.

I 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; The Wharf, Orange Beach I Free to attend I 251-224-1000

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 Chemoflage Sponsored by Infirmary Health, this is a nonprofit educational program founded by Cookie Aftergut, a breast cancer survivor, who was inspired to create a foundation that helps women get through having cancer. The program hopes to unmask the mystery of what to do when undergoing chemotherapy to fight breast cancer. Receive information about topics including nutrition, relaxation techniques and emotional challenges I 10 a.m. – 1p.m.; 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort I Free admission, but reservations are required I InfirmaryHealth.org; 251-435-7519 “What Stands in a Storm” Book Signing Kim Cross’s immersive reporting and dramatic storytelling sets you right in the middle of the horrific superstorm of April 2011 in Alabama, where thousands of ordinary people witnessed the sky falling around them. Yet from the disaster comes a redemptive message that’s just as real: in times of trouble, the things that tear our world apart also reveal what holds us together.

I 2 – 4 p.m.; Page and Palette, Fairhope I Free admission

GulfCoastNewsToday.com I PageAndPalette.com; 251-928-5295

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Wharf Boat and Yacht Show A terrific way to kick off the spring fishing and boating season on the Gulf Coast. This show gives visitors the chance to see some of the finest boats and accessories, both on land and in the water, and also the opportunity to experience the complete boating lifestyle.

There will be more than $90 million in boats and marine products on display, 125 inwater yachts and more than 250 boats on land and more than 50 of the hottest boat brands from 10-foot runabouts to 90-foot yachts.

I Through March 22; The Wharf, Orange Beach I $7 I 251-224-1900 “Wine and Sign” Author Event In “The Other Joseph,” Skip Horack emerges as a novelist in full command of his craft, masterfully depicting a life driven off the rails by tragedy and sin — a man now summoned by the legacy of a beloved, lost brother to embark on a journey in search of understanding, happiness and redemption.

I 6 p.m.; Page and Palette, Fairhope I $5; may be used as a coupon toward book purchase.

I PageAndPalette.com; 251-928-5295 “Della’s Diner” The North Baldwin Community Concerts Association will close out its 2014-2015 season with a musical comedy full of Southern characters and show-stopping country, blues and rockabilly tunes. The story follows Della, the big-hearted café owner, who dispenses love, wisdom and moral advice

to all those who come through her diner on Morning Glory Mountain.

I 7 p.m.; L.D. Owens Performing Arts Center at Faulkner State Community College, Bay Minette I Adults, $10; children 6 – 12, $5; Faulkner students, free admission I 251-937-5995

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 63rd Annual Arts and Crafts Festival For details, see pg. 5

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 13

INGERSOLL’S Air Conditioning & Heating Baldwin County’s Top Choice Since 1967

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 Foley Model Train Show For details, see pg. 19 BBQ & Blues Cook-Off For details, see pg. 8 Spring Fever Chase For details, see pg. 15 William F. Green Veteran’s Home Car Show Presented by Baldwin County Gear Jammers Car Club and the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. Money raised from this show will got to the veterans home to benefit the residents. Enjoy door prizes and food and drinks while perusing the cruises. Awards will be given in various categories and dash plaques will be given to the first 50 entries.

I 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; William F. Green Veteran’s Home, Bay Minette I $20 entry fee I 251-945-5506; 251-2159630 Florida-Georgia Line With special guests Thomas Rhett and Frankie Ballard.

I 7 p.m.; The Amphitheater at The Wharf, Orange Beach I $41 or $72 I 251-224-1000

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14 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

ALL ABOUT FOOD

Impress your friends with an easy, no-bake dessert Jill

ir Gentry Cla

By Jill Clair Gentry jillianclair@gmail.com

We’ve been invited to a lot of people’s homes for dinner lately, which I love. I always try to ask the host if there’s anything I can bring, to which they usually respond “How about dessert?”

You would think dessert would be the easiest item to bring to a weeknight dinner, but when I start thinking about it, I often draw a blank. My mind immediately wanders to cake and cheesecake, but those items just don’t match weeknight dinner dessert in my mind; plus, they’re so time consuming.

I called my mom to ask for a solution to this conundrum recently. She is the queen of quick, easy and delicious desserts.

On this particular occasion, we were invited over the same day as the dinner, so there was no time to really

Ca We te r!

photo by jill clair gentry

Ice cream sandwich delight

cook anything after work, but I didn’t want to bring something store-bought, either. She immediately had a suggestion: “Get a pack of ice cream sandwiches, cut them in half and lay them in the bottom of a 9-by-13inch pan. Put Cool Whip and chocolate syrup on top and place in the freezer until it sets. I make this all the time and people go nuts for it.”

This sounds amazing as-is, but of course I had to put my own spin on it.

Ice cream sandwich delight

Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 15 minutes (15 minutes active, 1 hour in freezer) Serves 10-12 (easily cut in half by using a smaller square pan instead of the 9-by 13-inch) Ingredients

FISH SERVED EVERY FRIDAY Fresh Sandwiches & Panini

Made With Premium Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese

Donuts, Twists & Cinnamon Rolls Desserts Made Daily!

Now Serving 8 Flavors of Ice Cream

Shakes, Malts, Banana Splits, Homemade Brownie Sundaes and “Pucker Up” Lemon Square Dessert

19452 Scenic Hwy. 98 • Fairhope

Tues-Sat 7am-6pm • Sun 7am-2pm Dine In or Take Out--We Deliver 251-517-0622 • www.TwoSistersBakeryandDeli.com

n n n n n n n

1 cup heavy whipping cream Sugar, to taste (between 2 tablespoons and ¼ cup) 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 12 ice cream sandwiches, cut in half horizontally 1 pound strawberries, thinly sliced ¾ cup dark chocolate chips, melted

Preparation To make the whipped topping, beat the whipping cream and sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer until soft peaks form.

Taste and add sugar to achieve desired sweetness. Add cream cheese and vanilla and beat until smooth.

Place ice cream sandwiches in a 9-by-13-inch dish. Top with the whipped topping. Place sliced strawberries on top of whipped topping. Drizzle all over with the melted chocolate. Cover, place in freezer and allow to set, preferably overnight.

Note: As previously mentioned, this recipe can be simplified to use Cool Whip and chocolate syrup as toppings.

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 15

AIMING AND ANGLING

The bait-stealing sheepshead

By Blake Maraman Registered nurse, photojournalist and outdoors enthusiast

B e Maraman lak

blakemrn@gmail.com

It’s that time of year when Perdido Pass is inundated with anglers in search of a local favorite — sheepshead — or “the convict,” a nickname earned because of their black and silver stripes. They are notorious for stealing bait, so you better be ready to outsmart the sheepshead. The big ones must be doing something right since the Alabama state record of 12 pounds, 15 ounces still holds from 2001!

Tips to successful sheepshead fishing • • • • •

Lighter gear makes it easier to detect the bites Vertical fishing works best Strong saltwater hooks are a must Standard bait is shrimp (around 2” long) or fiddler crabs Fresh bait is the key

Fish parmesan

My grandmother’s recipe Ingredients n 2 pounds (white) fish fillets n 1 cup sour cream n ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese n Paprika

did you know sheepshead ...

n 1 tablespoon grated onion n ½ teaspoon salt n Dash of Tabasco n 1 teaspoon lemon juice

I Have teeth that are almost human-like.

I Spawn in large numbers in early spring (females lay 500,000 – 1 million eggs).

Place fillets in a single layer in a well-greased baking dish. Combine remaining ingredients except paprika. Spread sour cream mixture over the fish. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake at 350 F for 25 – 30 minutes.

BUY

I Live near cover such as rock jetties, dock pilings, oyster bars, old wrecks or bridge pilings.

S ELL

I Have an average life span of seven to 10 years.

I Hold a daily creel limit of 10 per person with 12” minimum FL (fork length).

I Tend to be creatures of habit (so remember where you find them this year because that’s where they will be next year).

TRADE

The Hunter’s Headquarters Great selection of

GUNS & CAMO CLOTHING And Don’t Forget To Check Out Our Scopes, Ammo, Knives And Much More Dealer For

FIR FIREARMS

1050 S. Hickory, Loxley, AL • 251.964.5839 —Hwy. 59 N., Foley, AL • 251.943.5834 5 834

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

16 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

between the pages

March 6 – 19, 2015 Tell Cliff what you are reading at cmccollum@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Cliff McC o

“A Tiny Bit Marvellous”

by Dawn French

I

suppose I must confess that I have loved comedienne Dawn French (“The Vicar of Dibley,” “Clatterford”) for years, though I was curious to see if her wonderful sense of humor translated to the written page. No worries — it did — and more.

In “A Tiny Bit Marvellous” we meet the Battles, whose name is apt as battles seem to be just part of the norm for the family. Mother Mo is a 40-something child psychologist. She and her 17-year-old daughter Dora can’t seem to speak to each other without a war of words igniting.

Sixteen-year-old son Peter prefers to be known as Oscar (as in Oscar Wilde,

who he idolizes and mimics). Dad – well, he’s just a typical dad. There’s also a dog named Poo. Each chapter is told in first person through the eyes of each character, with the same event told in their voice and viewpoint, often varying wildly. Each Battle is sorting through their own issues.

French had me laughing from the first few pages. She has captured the voices of these characters perfectly and manages to weave difficult issues throughout the narrative with her signature wit and joviality.

Try to find yourself a copy of this book, folks; you’ll be glad you did.

“Five Star Liquidation” 413 SO. MCKENZIE ST., FOLEY

(Across from Regions Bank)

m llu

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

culturally speaking

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 17

if you go WHAT: 41st Orange Beach Festival of Arts WHEN: Saturday, March 14; Sunday, March 15 WHERE: Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach COST: Free admission, $2 for shuttle from The Wharf FIND OUT MORE: OrangeBeachArtFestival.com; 251-981-ARTS (2787)

submitted / courtland richards

41st annual Orange Beach Festival of Arts

T

he 41st Orange Beach Festival of Art will tantalize you with sights, sounds and tastes on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 on the campus of the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach.

The festival will feature more than 100 booths of local and regional fine arts, plus stunning displays on the performing arts and music and songwriters stages.

In addition to the culinary arts section, this year’s festival will feature a specialty foods area that will include Southern Grind Coffee House, The Meat Mart of Orange Beach, Two Sisters, Olive and Grape and Viper Sauce.

The festival is a fine arts, juried event every second weekend in March on the joint grounds of the Coastal Arts Center

of Orange Beach and Waterfront Park on Canal Road. Festival hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Festival goers may also enjoy live, visual arts demonstrations including hot glass and clay, music from seven different bands or artists, a stage presentation from the After School Arts Program, delight in tasty offerings from the culinary arts area and dive into hands-on experiences in Kids Art Alley.

The festival is completely free with public parking located The Wharf. Shuttle service for $2 to and from the festival will be available. No public parking will be allowed on-site except for those utilizing the Bicycle Village on the Arts Center grounds.

18 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

TASTINGS

The APCs of Lenten wines Jon Robitaille

bitaille Ro

jrobitaille@cainsgrocery.com

n

Beer/Wine Specialist at Cain’s Piggly Wiggly

Jo

Lent is the time of year when millions of people fast or abstain from certain foods or activities. Red meat becomes a “no-no” on Fridays and fish becomes the meal of choice. What better time to explore wines that pair well with fish or seafood?

A – Albariño is a white wine grape from the northwest coast of Spain. The cool and misty climate combined with just the right amount of sunshine guarantees the Albariño to be quite aromatic. This grape is noted for its peach or apricot fragrance and usually produces a light wine with high acidity and an alcohol level around 12 percent. This delicate wine pairs well with the delicate flavors of fish.

One to try: Lagar de la Santina 2013 Albariño P – Picpoul de Pinet is a dry white wine made from the Picpoul grape native to Languedoc region of France on the Mediterranean coast. Picpoul de Pinet is a designation used within the Languedoc region for white wines made exclusively from Piquepoul blanc in the Pinet commune as

March 6 – 19, 2015

By all means, this is not a complete list of wines that pair well with seafood. Don’t be afraid to try any wine with your Lenten meals this season because wine is always about the experience. What tastes good to one may not taste good to another.

well as Mèze, Florenzac, Castelnau-de-Guers, Montagnac and Pomérols. These wines with their green-gold color have a full floral aromatic display and fresh acidity with flavors of citrus, mainly lemon, and aniseed. Just like Albariño, this wine is designed to be drunk young and is great with fish but pairs extremely well with shellfish. One to try: Domaine des Cadastres 2013 Picpoul de Pinet C – Champagne Yes, you read it right! Champagne is a perfect choice for raw oysters. They go incredibly well together because of the slightly delicate nature of the raw oyster combined with its mineral or metallic flavor. The bubbles in champagne highlight the minerality of the oysters. Just remember: avoid the sweeter versions and find a good dry champagne.

S – Sauvignon Blanc is a well-known grape and many often misunderstand what they should be tasting when they buy this wine. First of all, there are two distinctive styles of Sauvignon Blanc — the fruity (often grapefruit), grassy style from New Zealand and the more rounded oaky style with hints of melon. The latter has also been referred to as Fume Blanc. One to try: Ceviche 2013 Sauvignon Blanc from California’s Central Coast. With bright fruit and a crisp acidity, this one is great with sushi or grilled salmon.

Oktoberfest

By Scott Gentry gentrst@gmail.com Scott G en

T

he German beer culture has an interesting reputation in our part of the world. Often misunderstood to be excessive beer drinkers, Germans prefer to think of themselves as being exceptionally efficient at eliminating large quantities of beer.

For example, take a look at Oktoberfest. We often think of it as a time in October when the Germans have the world’s biggest party and consume massive quantities of beer. It is that. But there is a history and reason for why they do what they do. Typically Oktoberfestbier is brewed near the end of winter so that the cold temperatures would be of benefit in preserving the beer during the fermentation period. Most often the beer is brewed in March (which is what reminded me to write about this style) and is called a Märzenbier, which means “March beer.” This beer was then consumed throughout the summer. When the fall harvest came in and the weather had cooled down, it was time to brew again. This is where the German efficiency kicks in. The problem they faced at that

time was Märzenbier from the summer was still occupying their casks. So the only option was to have a massive party to get rid of all of it to make way for the new beer that was about to be produced. And party they did.

They’ve been having Oktoberfest for more than 200 years now.

The actual beer is brewed with a healthy amount of German hops that mellow as the beer ages to result in a mature malt forward flavor profile. The alcohol content is moderate, ranging from 4.8-5.7 percent. Typically you can find this style on the shelves year-round thanks to modern brewing techniques (namely refrigeration and understanding how bacteria work).

(GermanBeerInstitute.com)

try

WHERE TO GO

A model train for sale. These are the types of items that will be available at the model train show.

photos courtesy of city of foley

Track your way to Foley’s Model Train Show

K

ids and adults of all ages who love model trains are invited to attend the second annual Foley Model Train Show, Saturday and Sunday March 21 and 22.

This model train show offers visitors a chance to see displays with operating trains in a number of sizes or scales, as model train enthusiasts call them. Multiple vendors will be selling trains, tracks, layouts and the many accessories enjoyed by those who appreciate model trains.

After the train show, take time to visit Foley’s wellknown train exhibit and Depot Museum open for visitors during these same hours the weekend of the Model Train Show. The train exhibit is a model train lover’s dream, with multiple “O” gauge trains running simultaneously on a 20-by 60-foot layout that includes a quarter-mile of track.

Regular times for the free model train exhibit are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The exhibit is located at 125 E. Laurel Ave., less than a mile from the Model Train Show.

if you go WHAT: Foley Model Train Show WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, March 22, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

WHERE: Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Ave., Foley COST: Adults, $3; children under 10, military, fire and police personnel, free FIND OUT MORE: 251-943-1200; SantaFeBob95@msn.com

Rich Morgan, a Caboose Club volunteer, paints pieces from an unassembled building kit.

The Depot Museum is located in Foley’s historic depot and contains photos, tools and memorabilia documenting Foley’s history and the important role the railroad played in the development of this area.

The Foley Model Train Show replaces the train show held for 20 years in Fairhope. The show is sponsored by the Foley Caboose Club and South West Alabama Railroad Modelers (SWARM).

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

20 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

live local music Karaoke

Daphne Top of the Bay Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 9 p.m.

Fairhope Gambino’s Italian Grill Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m.

Foley Good Time Charley’s every Tuesday at 10 p.m.

The Office Lounge every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Ft. Morgan Tacky Jacks every Thursday and Saturday at 9 p.m.

Gulf Shores Behind the Pines Bar & Grill every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Mudbugs Thursday – Saturday at 8 p.m.

Pink Pony Pub every night at 9 p.m.

Tacky Jacks every Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

Lillian Lillian’s Cafe and Coffee House every Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Orange Beach Island Time Daiquiri Bar every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Live Bait every night at 8 p.m.

Pappas Pizza Pie every Wednesday at 7 p.m Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar every Thursday at 8:30 p.m.

The Undertow Wednesday – Friday at 9:30 p.m.

Perdido Key Happy Harbor on the Line every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Open Mic

Fairhope American Legion 199 open guitar jams every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.

The Gumbo Shack every Thursday at 6 p.m.

Old 27 Grill Bay Area Songwriter’s Association first and third Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

Plow every other Tuesday Foley The Office Lounge every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Gulf Shores Tacky Jacks every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.

Orange Beach Happy Harbor the Mothership every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Island Time Daiquiri Bar Tuesday with Brittany Bell at 9 p.m.

Live Bait every Sunday at 8 p.m.

Pleasure Island Tiki Bar every Tuesday from 6 – 9 p.m.

Perdido Key Flora-Bama every Monday at 6 p.m.

Trivia

Daphne Moe’s Bar B Que every Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Top of the Bay Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 9 p.m.

Fairhope Fairhope Brewing Company every Thursday Ravenite Pizzeria Trivia every Tuesday, Sports Trivia every Wednesday Foley Good Time Charley’s everyday at 10 p.m.

The Office Lounge every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar every Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Bingo

Gulf Shores Tacky Jacks every Tuesday Orange Beach Bear Point Civic Association every Thursday at 7 p.m.

Tacky Jacks every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar every Monday at 7 p.m.

Perdido Key Flora-Bama Monday through Friday 1-4 p.m.

Friday, March 6

Daphne Boudreaux’s Cajun Grill

March 6 – 19, 2015

Compiled by Destiny Brown Email dbrown@gulfcoastnewspapers.com to update or add listings.

Adam Holt Duo Top of the Bay The Velcro Pygmies Fairhope Old 27 Grill Them Again Windmill Market Christoper Dunkin Duo Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Barstool Surfers The Hangout Mojiles / DJ Ellux Furor LuLu’s Sugarcane Jane Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Delta Reign Tropics The Whyte Capps

Saturday, March 7

Elberta Pirates Cove Adam Holt Duo Fairhope Old 27 Grill Kyle Brady / Roger Wood Duo Windmill Market Mitch Johnston Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Sam Glass +1 / Mental Extract The Hangout Mojiles / DJ Sremba LuLu’s Cadillac Attack Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Fat Lincoln

Sunday, March 8

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Lisa Zanghi Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Mental Extract / Joshua Ward The Hangout Mario Mena Band / The Perry Wall Hightide Oyster Bar The Whyte Capps LuLu’s Jimmy Lumpkin Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farms Grayson Capps, Will Kimbrough, David Olney, Sergio

Webb, Brigette DeMeyers, Corky Hughes, Anthony Crawford

Monday, March 9

Gulf Shores The Hangout Oliver Twist / DJ Ellux Furor Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

Tuesday, March 10 Gulf Shores The Hangout U.S. Band / DJ Sremba LuLu’s Delta Reign Duo Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Brandon White

Wednesday, March 11 Gulf Shores The Hangout U.S. Band / DJ Ellux Furor LuLu’s Edward David Anderson Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Orange Beach Live Bait Whyte Caps

Thursday, March 12

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Chad Austin Parker Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Damien Lamb The Hangout Adam Holt Band / DJ Sremba LuLu’s Honeyboy and Boots Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Mario Mena Perdido Key Flora-Bama Dallas Moore Band Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Al & Kathy

Friday, March 13

Daphne Moe’s Original Bar B Que Philo Fairhope Fairhope Brewery

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

live local music Sugarcane Jane Old 27 Grill Acoustic Punch with Brenda and Hollis Windmill Market Jimmy Lumpkin / Ground Level Fall Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Sam Glass The Hangout Rumor Mill / DJ Ellux Furor LuLu’s Honeyboy and Boots Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Orange Beach The Hot Spot Whyte Caps Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Will Wesley Perdido Key Flora-Bama Dallas Moore Band Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Jon Cowart

Band / The Perry Wall LuLu’s Cadillac Attack Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Pink Pony Pub The Whyte Caps Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Silverhill The Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Grayson Capps, C.J. Watson, Will Kimbrough, Jeff Gilkerson, Stephen Lee Veal, Corky Hughes

Saturday, March 14

Foley American Legion Post 99 Tim Dean Gulf Shores The Hangout The Investments / DJ Sremba LuLu’s Albert Simpson Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Dale Drinkard Jr.

Daphne Top of the Bay The Blacklist Elberta Pirates Cove Grayson Capps and the Lost Cause Minstrels with Mattanja Joy Bradley Fairhope Old 27 Grill Melissa Joiner / Christina Christian Foley American Legion Post 99 Bruti Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Lisa Zanghi / Mental Extract The Hangout Rumor Mill / DJ Sremba LuLu’s Kyle and Karl Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Will Wesley Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Cary Laine

Sunday, March 15

Fairhope Old 27 Grill The Sound Carpenters Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Mental Extract The Hangout Mario Mena

Monday, March 16

Gulf Shores The Hangout Oliver’s Twist / DJ Ellux Furor Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

Tuesday, March 17

Wednesday, March 18 Gulf Shores The Hangout Velcro Pygmies / DJ Ellux Furor Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Orange Beach Live Bait Whyte Caps

Thursday, March 19

Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Lisa Zanghi The Hangout Velcro Pygmies / DJ Sremba LuLu’s CoConut Radio Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Orange Beach Tacky Jack’s Adam Holt Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Corey Cox Spanish Fort

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 21 Grayson Capps will perform with others on March 8 and 15 at The Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm in Silverhill.

Bluegill Restaurant Brandon White

Friday, March 20

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Corey Rezner Organic School Benefit Grayson Capps ( 3 p.m. until) Windmill Market The Excelsior Band Duo / Sam Bonfe Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Barstool Surfers The Hangout U.S. Band / DJ Ellux Furor LuLu’s Alvarado Road Show Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Corey Cox Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Blind Dog Mike

SATURDAY, March 21

Fairhope Windmill Market Leland Clay Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Barstool Surfers / Mental Extract LuLu’s Alvarado Road Show Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Al & Kathy

SUNDAY, March 22

Fairhope Windmill Market Christopher Duncan Duo Gulf Shores LuLu’s Wes Loper Silverhill The Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Willie Sugarcapps

ONGOING

Fairhope Bucky’s Birdcage Lounge at the Grand Hotel Adam Holt Piano Show every Wednesday night at 8 p.m.

Gambino’s Italian Grill Dueling Pianos every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Greg Brown every Sunday at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

LuLu’s Brent Burns every Monday at 4 p.m.

The Hangout Lunchtime music with Gary Mondays at 11 a.m.

Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi every Monday night Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Tuesdays – Saturdays Lillian Lillian’s Cafe Woody Street every Wednesday, Gary Story every Friday, Rhonda Hart and friends every Saturday and Ricky Rayburn every Sunday Robertsdale Magnolia Blossom Cafe live music every Friday night Silverhill The Porch live music every Saturday from 8 p.m.-midnight and Sunday from 4-7 p.m.

Wales West Live Bluegrass / Gospel every Tuesday Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Dale Drinkard Jr. every Friday and Sunday at 11 a.m.

Bluegill Restaurant Ross +1 every Wednesday night

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

22 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

March 6 – 19, 2015

chew on this

Cheryl’s Cafe: a pretty perfect meat and three

By Jill Clair Gentry jillianclair@gmail.com

Jill

I

ir Gentry Cla

don’t know how I’ve never eaten at Cheryl’s Cafe before now. It is so up my alley — everything is home cooked, fresh vegetables abound and Cheryl herself makes it a point to meet you and remember your name for next time. The tiny, no-frills restaurant was absolutely packed when we walked in close to 1 p.m., and it’s easy to understand why.

The menu, written on a whiteboard, changes every day. If you find Cheryl’s Cafe on Facebook, she posts the new menu each day. There are usually three to four meat choices and about 10 to 15 side items, plus other offerings like taco salad, Chinese chicken salad, crawfish bisque or salmon with parmesan chive butter. Seriously — if you can’t find something to eat at this res-

photos by jill clair gentry

Homemade everything, hearty portions and a wide variety of options make Cheryl’s one of my new favorite restaurants. I’m just upset it took me so long to find this hidden gem.

Finest Quality Meats SU

O

P

P

S

T

R

We Offer a HUGE Wine & Beer eer Selection with Liquor Stores a at the Perdido, Robertsdale & Fairhope locations!

Best Selection & LOWEST Prices Every Day!

COST PLUS 10% PRICING

22245 Hwy. 59 So. Robertsdale, AL

251-947-2962

12255 Lillian Hwy. Pensacola, FL

850-455-2719

75 S Section Street Fairhope, AL

251-928-8029

Lucy

First at FaiFriday rhope

Tasting

Beer Dess,e Wine, r Moret!s &

March 6 – 19, 2015

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 23

Cheryl’s is only open for lunch on weekdays. It was packed even at 1 p.m. when we arrived.

taurant, you are just too picky. I thoroughly enjoyed the chicken and dumplings, and Scott couldn’t get enough of his parmesan-encrusted pork chop. Home cooking at its best, y’all.

One of the things about this place that made me giddy was the selection of beans and peas available. I mean, you can get field peas, baby limas, speckled butter beans or black eyed peas. If you’re not a bean/pea lover like me, make sure you try the cornbread dressing or the squash casserole.

And do not leave this place without some homemade dessert. Again, the dessert choices change daily, and when we were there, they had run out of two of them — which tells me they make them fresh every day.

I simply cannot say enough about how much we loved Cheryl’s. Please give this precious local eatery all your love so it will stay around forever and ever.

restaurant profile NAME: Cheryl’s Cafe LOCATION: 322 D Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort (in the Rite Aid shopping center) HOURS: Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

CUISINE: Meat and three PRICE: $$$$$ FIND OUT MORE: 251-626-2602; Facebook.com/CherylsCafe

did you know?

You can locate meat and three restaurants all over the country online by visiting MeatAndThree.com. The website offers a directory by state that visitors can add to.

Foley • 251.987.5129 — Orange Beach • 251.965.5129

Local seafood tradition since 1973 Daily Chef Specials

Hand-Cut Steaks

Family Friendly

We cater!

WolfBayLodge.com

Waterfront Dining in Orange Beach