gulf coast
Get wild!
Wildlife day trip s for the kids
Your 14-day guide to fun, food and entertainment
Spring HOME& GARDEN Baldwin County Strawberry Festival Delicious fun in Loxley Local races Magnolia Run North Baldwin Relay for Life
APRIL 3 – 16, 2015 Gulf Coast Media
Vol. 1 Issue 24
Cobia craze The hunt is on!
APRIL 3 – 16
In-depth Baldwin County calendar and live music listings in every issue!
2 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
April 3 – 16, 2015
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 3 gulf coast
Letter from the editor
GET WILD!
Wildlife day trip s for the kids
Your 14-day guide to fun, food and entertainment
Spring HOME& GARDEN
With great weather for the third week in a row, I think it’s safe to say the warm weather is here to stay (knock on wood). I know spring started March 20, but we all know Mother Nature likes to tease us down here in Alabama. Nevertheless, the feel-good weather is here — for now — and we should take advantage of it. With spring break beginning today for most students in Baldwin County and surrounding counties, there is much to do (and here’s to hoping the rain stays away in addition to the cold). For those that are looking for Easter fun or a service and activity to attend, check out our Easter events, including Easter egg hunts, pictures with the Easter Bunny and Easter services in churches throughout the county. If you don’t see your church listed, call the office for times of services and events. The Baldwin County Strawberry Festival in Loxley is April 11 and 12 at the municipal park. For its 28th year, the festival will have a car and tractor show, games, arts and crafts booths, plenty of food, and of course, lots of strawberries. Proceeds from the festival benefit Loxley Elementary School and the Baldwin County Association of Retarded Citizens. It is estimated that 70,000 people enjoy the festival, while raising $50,000 for Loxley Elementary and ARC. April 17 marks the North Baldwin Relay for Life event at Faulkner State Community College in Bay Minette. In addition to the walk, a Survivor Dinner will be held the night before at First Baptist Church in Bay Minette. Also in this issue, you’ll find our annual Spring Home and Garden special section. Spring has sprung, so get your trowels, shovels and gloves. Get to gardening! Gulf Coast Buzz editor
Baldwin County Strawberry Festival Delicious fun in Loxley Local Races Magnolia Run and North Baldwin Relay for Life Cobia Craze The hunt is on!
APRIL 2 – 16, 2015 GULF COAST MEDIA
Vol. 1 Issue 24
APRIL 3 – 16
In-depth Baldwin County calendar and live music listings in every issue!
Cover photo is by Jay Sowers.
ABOUT THE COVER Spring has sprung with an array of flowers found in Baldwin County. It’s time to dig out your gardening tools and cleaning supplies. Take advantage of this warm weather. Find out more in our special center section on pages 13HG – 28HG.
Look for us submissions I In all four Gulf Coast Media newspapers: The Times Independent, The Foley Onlooker, The Islander and The Courier
I Comments and concerns
I In racks, boxes and locations throughout Baldwin County
I Live local music listings
I On GulfCoastNewsToday.com
gulf coast
Social Media I On Facebook: Gulf Coast Newspapers On Twitter: @gcntoday
Allison Woodham: allison@gulfcoastmedia.com
I Events calendar
Allison Woodham: allison@gulfcoastmedia.com Destiny Brown: dbrown@gulfcoastnewspapers.com
I Advertising
Eastern Shore frank@gulfcoastmedia.com and North Baldwin rebecca@gulfcoastmedia.com Central Baldwin and South Baldwin
jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com brad@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, April 17.
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 Tony Whitehead
ContributoRS Jill Clair Gentry Blake Maraman Jon Robitaille
advertising Jeniece Bouzan Rebecca Brookins Brad Day Frank Kustura
Gulf Coast Media 21764 Media Dr., Robertsdale, AL 36567 251-947-7712 GulfCoastNewsToday.com
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
April 3 – 16, 2015
WHAT’S INSIDE COVER STORY
5
Spring Home and Garden Great ideas are blooming in the center of this issue. Find out how to spruce up your space for the season. 13HG – 28HG
WHERE TO GO Baldwin County Strawberry Festival Delicious fun in Loxley. 5
13HG – 28HG
Easter Events Celebrations and egg hunts throughout the county. 12 North Baldwin Relay for Life Roping in a cure in Bay Minette. 30
FAMILY FUN Wildlife Day Trips Three local family outings. 8
A&E Culturally Speaking Day of Dance and Spin. 29
FOOD
OUTDOORS
The Buzz on the Coast 14 Days, our comprehensive calendar. 9
Recipes Feed the need: Kerri’s grandmother’s cornbread dressing. 31
The Magnolia Run Pound the pavement. 7
Local Live Music Baldwin County music listings. 36
Chew on This Restaurant Review: Global Grille. 34 Tastings A new era of discovery and wines to try. 38
Aiming and Angling Cobia craze. 33
BOOKS/GAMES Between the Pages “I Must Say” by Martin Short. 32 Puzzles. 39
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 5
WHERE TO GO
Delicious fun at the
Baldwin County Strawberry Festival
Entertainment Saturday, April 11 10 a.m. to noon – Brandi Noon to 3 p.m. – Mustang Sally 3 to 5 p.m. – Figure Eight Sunday, April 12 10 a.m. to noon – Cairy Lane Noon to 3 p.m. – Cool Rayz 3 to 5 p.m. – Tommy Morse Band
By John Underwood junderwood@gulfcoastnewspapers.com
T
he Baldwin County Strawberry Festival will celebrate its 28th year in 2015 with entertainment, arts and crafts, games, car and tractor shows and plenty of food, including their famous strawberry shortcake. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 11 and 12 at the Loxley Municipal Park. Presenting sponsors for the event are Baldwin EMC and Hardee’s. Organized as a fundraiser for the Loxley Elementary School PTO and the Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) of Baldwin County, the festival was first held in May of 1987. From proceeds collected by the 2014 festival, organizers donated $25,000 each to Loxley Elementary and ARC. According to its website BaldwinCountyStrawberryFestival.org, the festival has grown from a few crafters and food vendors to more than 180 arts and crafts exhibitors, a dozen different food vendors, a carnival with children’s games, antique auto show, exhibits and live music. Entertainment for this year’s event begins with Brandi performing from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, followed by Mustang Sally from noon to 3 did you know? p.m. and Each year the festival attracts an Figure Eight estimated 70,000 visitors and from 3 to 5 raises nearly $50,000 for its two p.m. benefactors, Loxley Elementary On SunSchool and Baldwin County d a y, C a i r y Association for Retarded Laine will Citizens (ARC). perform from
schedule of events
All-day events • South Alabama Antique Tractor and Engine Club Show • Arts and crafts and food vendors • Carnival rides and games • Car show, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
photos by john underwood/ staff
if you go WHAT: Baldwin County Strawberry Festival WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, April 11 and 12, 9 a.m to 5 p.m. WHERE: Loxley Municipal Park COST: Free admission FIND OUT MORE: BaldwinCountyStrawberryFestival.org
6 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
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
GulfCoastNewsToday.com 10 a.m. to noon with Cool Rayz from noon to 3 p.m. and the Tommy Morse Band from 3 to 5 p.m. The annual Strawberry Festival Car Show will be held featuring classic cars on Saturday and modern cars on Sunday. Registration each day will be held 8 to 11 a.m. with judging from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and a trophy presentation at 3 p.m. The event will also feature the South Alabama Antique Tractor and Engine Show on Saturday and Sunday.
April 3 – 16, 2015
did you know? Since its beginning, the festival has included the Little Miss Strawberry Beauty Pageant held every March. The pageant is open to second graders and features contestants throughout Baldwin County.
facts about strawberries • The strawberry, a member of the rose family, is the only fruit with seeds on the outside. On average, there are 200 seeds on each berry. • Strawberries are the first fruit to ripen in the spring. • Eight strawberries will provide 140 percent of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C for kids. • If all the strawberries produced in California in one year were laid berry to berry, they would circle the world 15 times. • The American Indians introduced the colonists to strawberries. The crushed berries were mixed with cornmeal and baked into bread.
OUTDOORS
Pounding the pavement R
unners, walkers and those who enjoy the outdoors are sure to have a blast participating in the 11th annual Magnolia Run on Saturday, April 11 in Magnolia Springs. The Magnolia Run is a 5K run, 5K race/walk and 1-mile Fun Run that welcomes more than 350 participants and takes place in Magnolia Springs down a beautiful scenic route with majestic oak branch canopies overhanging the road, lovely azaleas, flowering plants and historic homes.
A portion of the proceeds help support the Chamber Scholarship Fund and the Foley High School feeder schools’ athletic programs (choose the school you wish to support during registration). Awards are presented to a wide variety of age groups. Post-race activities for runners include music, delicious food provided by Jesse’s Restaurant, beverages and fabulous door prizes. The Magnolia Run begins and ends at Jesse’s Restaurant, 14770 Oak St. in Magnolia Springs.
ADVERTISE
WITH THE BUZZ
Get the word out about your business to a local audience! For rates and more information email: Eastern Shore frank@gulfcoastmedia.com and North Baldwin rebecca@gulfcoastmedia.com
Central Baldwin and South Baldwin
jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com brad@gulfcoastmedia.com
8 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
April 3 – 16, 2015
FAMILY FUN
ip trip ayy tr da fe d life dli ild wil aw kee a ak T Ta k!! ak rea Bre gB ng rin pri Sp fo forr S c Mann Eri
By Eric Mann eric@gulfcoastmedia.com
Today marks the first day of spring break for Baldwin and Mobile public schoolchildren. If you don’t already have plans for a big family trip, here are a few ideas for day trips to places that are just a short drive for residents on Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
1
Take a day trip to the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. While you are there, hit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and take part in one of their wildlife encounters. The zoo gives visitors the opportunity to experience hands-on encounters with kangaroos, lemurs and reptiles. Call 251-968-5732 for more information about the zoo or visit AlabamaGulfCoastZoo.org for prices.
2
If your kids are interested in marine science, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is just a short drive away from Baldwin County. The Estuarium at the DISL features Miss May May, an interactive boat exhibit, a weather station, the gift shop and bookstore and more. Call 251-861-2141 or visit disl.org for more information.
eric mann / staff
Savannah Mann holds an alligator from Alligator Alley in Summerdale.
3
If you are interested in learning more about alligators, then Summerdale’s Alligator Alley is the place for you and your family. At Alligator Alley you can feed and hold gators and take a guided tour to the elevated viewing platform. Alligator Alley has 450 alligators, from hatchlings to mature adults for you to see. Call 251-946-BITE or visit GatorAlleyFarm.com for information and pricing.
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
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 9
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
ONGOING Foley Historic Downtown Walking Tours Every Saturday in April, learn about the history of local landmarks in The Forward City. Sites include Hotel Magnolia, Foley Train Depot and many more. Other dates are April 11, 18 and 25. I 10 a.m.; Foley Welcome Center I Free admission I VisitFoley.org; 251-943-1300 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
jay sowers / staff
Your guide to fun, food and entertainment Historic downtown walking tours will begin in Foley on April 4 and occur every Saturday in April.
Ark of India: An Alabama artist explores outhern Asia An account of late 19th and early 20th century India as seen by Alabama artist Roderick D. MacKenzie, 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
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10 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
April 3 – 16, 2015
FRIDAY, APRIL 3 First Friday Art Walk Beginning at the Eastern Shore 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 First Friday Family Night The second movie shown of this four-part series is “Brave.” This event 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 May 1 and “Dolphin Tale 2” will be shown. I 8 p.m.; Blackburn Park, Bay Minette I Free admission
SATURDAY, APRIL 4 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
MONDAY, APRIL 6 Free Fishing Clinic Topics include kayak, paddle and surf fishing; local captains Paul Redman, Jeremy Cox and JD Cox of The Anglers Anonymous Fishing Team will lead the seminar. Guest speakers will be Chris Vecsey, Linda Cavitt and Ernie Cavitt. Junior and female anglers are welcome. I 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Flora-Bama Yacht Club I Free admission
I AAFishingClinic.com; 850-390-6156; aafishingclinics@yahoo.com
THURSDAY, APRIL 9
eric mann / staff
the buzz on the coast
“42nd Street” The University of Alabama will bring Broadway to Mobile, complete with big, flashy tap dances, gorgeous costumes and a cast of 40. This one-night-only performance is sure to dazzle audience members. I 7:30 p.m.; Mobile Civic Center I Tickets start at $25 I MobileCivicCtr.com; 251-208-7906
Earth Day Mobile Bay will begin at 10 a.m. at the Fairhope Pier on April 18.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10 Relay for Life Golf Tournament Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society I Registration and lunch, noon; tee time, 1 p.m. I $50 per person I 251-580-1625; tcovington@ ci.bayminette.al.us
SATURDAY, APRIL 11 Baldwin County Strawberry Festival For details, see pg. 5 4th annual Bunny Hop The Pleasure Island Junior Woman’s Club will present its 5K and Fun Run in memory of Ann Reese Grote. The Pleasure Island Junior Woman’s Club raises money to clothe local children in need and also for the Ann Reese Memorial Scholarship. This will be the first year to raise money and award the scholarship. I 8 a.m.; The Wharf, Orange Beach I Early registration, $20; day-of registration, $30; children 12 and younger, $25 I pleasureislandjwc@gmail.com Puttin’ on the Gritz The Eastern Shore Art Center and Committee on Public Art celebrate all things Southern with their first fundraising event. Guests are
invited to be creative in their attire and take part in a fun night, while supporting our local arts community. Great food, live music, auction and more. I 7 – 11 p.m.; Fairhope City Hall I $75 I ESArtCenter.com; 251-928-2228; adrienne@esartcenter.com
Fairhope Yacht Club Auxiliary is hosting a spring fashion show and luncheon. Open to the public. Call before April 8; tickets are sure to sell out. I 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Fairhope Yacht Club I $25 I 251-928-8830
SUNDAY, APRIL 12
A Night with Nick Saban Featured speakers include Alabama Crimson Tide Head Coach Nick Saban and New York Times bestselling author Andy Andrews, who will both be presented with the “Champion of Life” award. A Nick Saban “meet and greet” opportunity will follow Coach Saban’s address for event sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are available. I Doors, 5 p.m.; dinner, 6:30 p.m.; USA Mitchell Center, Mobile I Individual, $75; table of eight, $600 I TeamFocusUSA.org; 251-635-1515
Mud Bottom Revival at the Dog Pond Dog River Clearwater Revival announces the first music festival, featuring Will Kimbrough, Sugarcane Jane, Deluxe Trio and more. Attendees are invited to bring their own beverages, picnic blankets and chairs and enjoy an afternoon of live music underneath the moss-covered oaks of beautiful Dog River. Food truck fare available for purchase. I 2 – 7 p.m.; Dog River, 2415 Venetia Road, Mobile I $20; children 10 and younger, free I DogRiver.org; 206-388-8997
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 Girls, Shoes and Wine
THURSDAY, APRIL 16
FRIDAY, APRIL 17 North Baldwin Relay for Life For details, see pg. 30
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Third Friday Art Walk and Wine Tasting Includes an art walk and free wine tasting in a relaxing atmosphere filled with charm. Participating businesses include 4-Elements, Bungalows, Dream Center (Mary Kay), Good Morning Mattress Center and many more. I 5 – 7 p.m.; downtown Foley I Free admission I 251-367-4499
SATURDAY, APRIL 18 Mullet Man Triathlon An addition to the Annual Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party, promises a great course, super volunteers, awards three deep and overall, as well as a post-race party with fabulous food and fun. A portion of the proceeds will go to local youth charities in Florida and Alabama, along with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Team in Training. Registration will be cut off at 500 participants, so get your applications in soon. I 7:30 a.m. (rain or shine) I FloraBama.com; 251-980-5118 Earth Day Mobile Bay The Mobile Bay area celebration of Earth Day is inspired by the worldwide and national Earth Day, which promotes environmental citizenship and
tony whitehead / staff
Under the Stars Enjoy a fabulous evening while supporting the Baldwin County children we serve. The dynamic band, 4 Barrel Funk, will be performing and we will also have great food, drinks, dancing and exciting silent and live auctions. I 6:30 – 10:30 p.m.; Oak Hollow Farm, Fairhope I $50 per person I BCCAREHouse.org; 251-937-2055; jessicaware@bellsouth.net
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 11
North Baldwin’s Relay for Life Golf Tournament will take place at Holly Hills Municipal Golf Course on April 10, beginning at noon.
steers environmental awareness around the world. I 10 a.m.; Fairhope Pier I Free admission I EarthDayMobileBay.org Waterway Village Zydeco & Crawfish Festival Sink your teeth into some hot, juicy, lip-smacking crawfish while dancing to the infectious rhythms of some of the best Zydeco bands from around the South. There will be crawfish races, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and even an authentic 80-foot shrimp boat on hand offering nonstop fun for all ages. I 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Waterway Village in Gulf Shores I Free admission I Facebook.com/ZydecoandCrawfishFestival; 251-968-1172 Satsuma Blossom Festival’s Bicycle Decorating Contest Part of the Satsuma Blossom Festival. Decorated bikes are due at the Fairhope Museum of History by 11 a.m. After judging, prizes will be awarded. Show your creativity with your wheels. I Noon; Fairhope History Museum I Free admission I 251-517-9341 Blue Star Memorial Highway Dedication
The Montrose Garden Club is proud to announce the dedication of approximately 2.3 miles of Scenic Highway 98 as a Blue Star Memorial Highway, honoring all men and women of the United States who have served in the armed forces. Everyone is welcome. A special invitation is extended to all veterans. I 2 – 4 p.m.; Knights of Columbus Hall, Daphne I 251-626-3093; gcrane@gmail.com Wildgame Cook-Off Hosted by Stockton Civic Club. Live auction, bake sale, great food and cash prizes. Don’t miss out. I 4 p.m.; Old Schoolyard Park, Stockton I $15 per person I 251-689-9920; 251-680-8168 Bald Eagle Bash A menu that encompasses everything from shrimp ceviche and shrimp stuffed mashed potatoes to traditional favorites like gumbo and shrimp and grits. Gretch Lyles and The Modern Eldorados will perform. Both the band and the event are kid and family-friendly. I 4 – 7 p.m.; Tonsmeire Resource Center on Weeks Bay I Advance, $40; gate, $45; children 10 and younger, free I BaldEagleBash.com
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12 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
April 3 – 16, 2015
WHERE TO GO
Easter services Check with your local church for any Easter services and events.
NORTH BALDWIN Community Good Friday Service Sponsored by North Baldwin Ministerial Association I April 3, noon; First United Methodist Church, Bay Minette Easter sunrise service Sponsored by North Baldwin Ministerial Association I April 5, 7 a.m. Halliday Park, Bay Minette
CENTRAL BALDWIN 10th annual Cottontail Express Features a miniature steam train, free Easter egg hunt with goodies and visit with the Easter Bunny. Event also includes pony rides, petting zoo and Peep blaster cannon. I Through April 4, 10 a.m.5 p.m.; Wales West Light Railway, Silverhill I $15; children under 2, free I WalesWest.com; 888-569-5337 Living Lord’s Supper A recreation of Leonardo DaVinci’s Last Supper featuring the Passover meal and includes monologues by Jesus and all the disciples. I April 3, 7 p.m.; Silverhill First Baptist Church I Free admission; a free-will offering will be taken during the service I FBCSilverhill org; 251-945-5182 13th annual Easter Eggstravaganza Hunt for more than 10,000 eggs sponsored annually by The Lighthouse of Baldwin County. Robertsdale Fire Department will provide hot dogs for lunch and tours of a
fire truck. Will also include games, pony rides, a cake walk, raffles, a spacewalk, Easter art projects and appearances by the Dogwood Trail Maids and the Easter bunny. I April 3, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Garrett Park, Robertsdale. I Free admission I ABeacon.org; 251-947-3414; bcfvom@gulftel.com Easter egg hunt Hosted by the Loxley Volunteer Fire Department, includes thousands of eggs, entertainment and a visit from the Easter bunny. Refreshments will be served and special prize eggs will be available. I April 4, 10 a.m. to noon; Loxley Municipal Park I Free admission I TownofLoxley.org; 251-964-6444 Easter egg hunt Sponsored by the Silverhill First Baptist Church. Events include games, face painting, balloon animals, hot dogs and chips, along with other refreshments. I April 4, 1 – 3 p.m.; Silverhill Kids Park I Free admission I FBCSilverhill org; 251-945-5182 SonRise Service Come together in celebration of our Savior’s resurrection from the dead to eternal life. Hosted by Robertsdale United Methodist Church. I April 5, 6:30 a.m.; Garrett Park pavilion, Robertsdale I Free admission I RobertsdaleUMC.com; 251-947-4602
john underwood / staff
Easter Sunrise Service Hosted by the Silverhill First Baptist Church. I April 5, 6:30 a.m.; Oscar Johnson Memorial Park, Silverhill I Free admission I FBCSilverhill.org; 251-945-5182
EASTERN SHORE Easter egg hunt I April 4, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Christ the King Catholic Church I 251-626-2343 Easter bunny photos I April 4, 10 a.m. – noon; Fairhope Welcome Center I Free admission; bring your own camera I 251-929-1466
SOUTH BALDWIN Good Friday Tenebrae service A service of devotion that dates back to the seventh century. I April 3, 7 p.m.; First Presbyterian Church, Foley I Free admission I FirstPresbyterianFoley.com; 251-943-8325
Easter egg hunt Bouncy houses, live music, giant color sheets and more. I April 4, 11 a.m.; The Wharf, Orange Beach I Free admission I 251-224-1000 Pictures with the Easter bunny I April 4, 5; Palm Plaza at The Wharf I $15 per 5x7 photo I 251-224-1000 Easter Buffet Annually, one of the most enjoyable events of early spring is our Easter Buffet. The menu is mouthwatering, and as always, we have arranged for the Easter Bunny to stop by and help us with an Easter egg hunt. Reservations are recommended. I April 5; Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach I Adults in the Grand Ballroom, $32.95; adults in the Voyagers Restaurant, $39.95 I 251-981-9811; concierge@perdidobeachresort.com
Spring HOME&GARDEN INSIDE Gardens from scratch. 16HG Planting with kids. 18HG Dress up your front door and entryway. 20HG 2015 home decor trends. 22HG Tips for a happy spring look. 24HG Companion planting. 26HG photo by jay sowers / staff
14HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
April 3 – 16, 2015
April 3 –16, 2015
Spring Home and Garden
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 15HG
16HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
April 3 – 16, 2015
How to plant your garden from scratch Submitted by StatePoint
P
lanting a garden from scratch can sound like a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the hobby. But with the right knowledge, you can plan a successful, fruitful green space and expect to have a great harvest. One way to get a head start on your garden is to start your seedlings indoors and then transplant them later into an outdoor garden. This time-tested technique can save you hundreds of dollars annually, as young plants at a nursery can be pricey. Here are some tips and tricks to make the most of this method: • Don’t start your indoor plants too soon. They can grow in about four weeks or less if you use a high-quality garden starter. Check seed packages to learn when to plant outdoors in your area, and then start them indoors one month earlier to your transplanting date outdoors. • Consider using a seed-starting system that takes some of the gardening guesswork out of the equation. For example, the Aerogarden Seed Starting system allows you to start up to 66 seedlings indoors with no dirt or mess, nurturing seeds with optimal amounts of water and nutrients for reliable germination and healthy growth. • Add new nutrients to the seedlings every two weeks and keep the water at full level. Feeding your plants more
submitted / statepoint
than the recommended amount will not make them grow faster. In fact, it could hurt the plants. • Before transplanting, seedlings need to be hardened off. Skipping this step will almost certainly result in some or all of your plants dying. Hardening off seedlings eases their transition to the outdoors, where they will be exposed to the elements. The process involves gradually exposing plants to the outdoors, protecting them from full sunlight, temperature variations and wind. • Don’t let sprouts get too big before transplanting them outdoors. Ideally they should be about 4 to 6 inches tall. If possible, wait to plant your seedlings on a cool, cloudy day. If your seedlings get too large before weather will allow transplanting outdoors, transplant them into small pots with high quality potting soil. Keep fully watered in a sunny space until weather permits transplanting outdoors. • After transplanting seedlings outdoors, be sure to water them daily for the first two weeks, especially if the weather is dry and sunny.
www.chrisfrancistreecare.com LICENSED, BONDED, INSURED & WORKERS COMP.
Call
251-367-8733
• Save and reuse your seed starter tray for the next season. Once the spring plants have been transplanted outdoors, you will be free to get a head start on your summer crop. More tips to start your own seedlings can be found at AeroGarden.com. For true green thumb bragging rights, grow your garden from scratch. Just be sure you know the tricks of the trade.
April 3 –16, 2015
Spring Home and Garden
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 17HG
Elberta Farmers Cooperative 13320 Main St. Elberta, AL
251-986-8103
If you’re Planting or Preparing your Lawn & Garden, look to
Elberta Farmers Cooperative for
Trees • Bedding/Vegetable Plants Seeds • Fertilizers • Potting Soil Our Garden Center strategically stocks a phenomenal selection of vegetable seeds and starts that grow best in this area. It’s time to start your garden so let us supply your seed, soil or compost brine and garden fertilizers.
We still have citrus and other fruit, nut and berry trees available
Peach • Pear • Apple • Fig Blueberry • Blackberry and others.
Beautiful Roses are a staple of the southern landscape. We offer up to thirty different varieties, including hybrid tea and climbing roses.
18HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
Get kids to grow for it!
April 3 – 16, 2015
Start them off with strawberries this spring, in a patch or pot. By Joan Casanova
G
submitted photos / bonnie plants
et kids growing in the garden by starting them off planting their very own strawberries. You can engage them in the growing process and let them plant and care for a whole patch, or just one or two plants, planted in a strawberry jar or garden container. They’ll love digging in the dirt and getting their hands dirty. Then show them how to properly care for and water their homegrown, sweet and tasty treats. A fun way to encourage them to take ownership of the plants and nurture them is to buy them their very own watering can and kid’s size shovel. Don’t forget to show kids how to pinch off plant runners, which will allow for larger sized berries. And of course, be sure they’re doing the harvesting so they can enjoy the fruits of their labor. You’ll find most kids enjoy helping in the garden, for a number of reasons; they’re allowed to get dirty, they get some good outdoor exercise and healthy sunshine, and they will actually learn and understand, first hand, where their food comes from. Within the gardening process, they’ll also gain a good sense of nurture, nature and responsibility. Kids will love watching their strawberries grow, they’ll see flowers bloom, garden bees and fruit develop and turn color. After
April 3 –16, 2015 developing a sense of ownership of their plants, they will especially love eating the sweet fruits they grew themselves.
Choosing strawberry plants
Bonnie Plants, the largest producer of veggies and herbs in the United States, with 65 growing stations across the country, regionally serving 48 states, offers strawberry plants at your local garden retailer. Use transplants — they’re easier than seeds and the growing process will take less time.
Growing tips • When planting strawberries, be sure the crown is above soil level and the uppermost roots are 1/4 inch beneath soil level; buried crowns rot and exposed roots dry out. Have kids measure and then dig holes for placing plants. Strawberry plants should be placed approximately 14 to 18 inches apart from each other in neat rows that are separated by 2 to 3 feet each. Let runners fill in until plants are 7 to 10 inches apart. • Use mulch to keep berries clean, conserve moisture and control weeds. • You can plant strawberries in a container. Just remember that container plantings need much more water than in-ground plantings, usually once a day; and if it’s hot, twice. Strawberry pots are the best container choice. You can fit several plants in one pot; just make sure whatever type of garden pot you use has good drainage. Strawberries have a relatively small root ball and can be grown in containers as small as 10 to 12 inches in diameter and 8 inches deep. However, the smaller the container, the more frequently
Spring Home and Garden For more info and tips on growing strawberries visit BonniePlants.com. Strawberries are one of the easiest and best home garden fruits for kids to grow. They’ll produce fruit throughout the summer and children will love to pluck them right off the plant, wash and eat. If your kids have yet to plant and care for a fruit or vegetable, strawberries are a perfect choice for their first gardening experience. Kick off this gardening season with your kids and get them growing strawberries. you will need to water. Synthetic and light colored pots will keep the roots cooler than dark colors and natural materials that conduct heat. • Strawberries like welldrained, fairly rich soil, so be sure to add compost or other organic matter when preparing the pot or patch. • They also need full sun and frequent, deep soakings. Be sure to give adequate water during bearing season. They will grow in all zones and should be fed twice a year — when growth begins and after the first crop. Use a complete fertilizer high in phosphorous for feedings.
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 19HG
Hwy 104 H 104, Robertsdale, R b t d l AL
1/4 Mi. West of Hwy. 59 M-F 7:30-5:00 • Sat 7:30-4:00
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“Your Complete Garden Center” Wide Selection
Flowering Annuals & Perennials Flower, Vegetable & Bedding Plants Herb, Flower & Vegetable Seeds Ferns & Flowering Baskets Caladiums Bulbs Large Selection of Fruit, Citrus & Ornamental Trees
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20HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
Dress up your front door and entryway for
spring
April 3 – 16, 2015
Use seasonal bright or pastel colors like purple, yellow, white and green.
By Dooley Berry
A
re you ready to emerge from the doldrums of winter and transform your front porch and door into a spring masterpiece that glows with the joy of the season? It is the treasured season of new beginnings and fresh starts. Your home’s entrance and front door are important elements in creating a welcoming entry design for spring. With a little effort spent refreshing and beautifying your home’s entrance and creating seasonal porch and front door décor, your home will look as fresh and inviting as spring itself. Emerge from that cocoon of winter by creating a front door and porch that blossom. Nothing says spring quite like its own natural beauty garnered into this most focal welcoming area of the home. When the threat of frost is over, start putting out plants, hanging planters and box arrangements around the front door. Create a focal point on the front porch. This could be an item that immediately catches the eye, such as a brightly painted door or porch, a piece of outdoor art, colorful new cushions or floral arrangements. Simple decorations can reap huge rewards as you wow through color and points of interest. A good place to begin this homage to spring is by washing or painting the front door and maybe adding a colorful rug. A clean front door and light fixtures along with necessary repair work on the entryway will shout out a warm welcome to visitors. Once the warmth of spring settles in, it is a pleasure to linger longer outside enjoying Mother Nature’s budding show from a creatively decorated entrance. The entrance door is the gateway for the energy flowing into the house. A beautiful home entrance and attractive front door energize and lift the spirit. Nature that surrounds our homes is a true ally and provides inspiration. The addition of green plants and flowers around that entryway adds more balance and harmony to the home's exterior design and front yard landscaping. If you have a porch, it can be decorated and fashioned
Baskets and wreaths are a great way to give your doorway a spring or Easter look.
into an attractive outdoor room that feels like a tranquil retreat and creates a nice space to relax, as well as setting a positive mood at the entrance for both you and your family and visitors. A welcoming front door area is important in creating pleasant first impressions. Simple spring decorations that include green plants and flowers, small garden decorations and welcoming benches or chairs add charm and improve the mood by creating joy to delight anyone who goes there. From daffodils in cute baskets to flowering trees, a good design at the entryway embraces your front door and porch. Select plants that add the most color and complement your front door’s style and porch colors. You might try planting a miniature herb garden in baskets by the front door or planters of colorful pansies or petunias that never fail to provide spring cheer. An outdoor rug at the front entryway can pull the décor together with charm. Think about replacing that tired worn doormat with a fresh, snappy-looking rug to welcome family and friends. Front door wreaths can be both festive and fun. Pretty floral wreaths and beautiful hanging arrangements in pastel colors that include springtime elements such as watering cans or even tiny umbrellas can dress up that front door and
April 3 –16, 2015
Spring Home and Garden
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 21HG
welcome in such a cute way. Consider including in your decorating seasonal items such as bunnies, green grass or eggs to create a great spring display. Use what you have on hand around the house and just be creative with your spring decorating. Thrift stores can be good sources of unique spring items. Bouquets of spring flowers, Add green plants or branches with buds such as pussy willow or forsynflowers on your porch thia and colorful vases or planters can become a and in your entryway. grand focal point. Bunnies and other spring animals or creatures can add charming whimsy to a lovely wreath for the front door. For a festive Easter entryway, incorporate traditional tulips, carrots, lettuce leaves and grass for the cute bunnies nestled about. Small birdhouses can be tucked into wreaths or pots to provide a cheery seasonal welcome. Grapevine wreaths decorated with moss, berries or flowers can easily be fashioned. This is the time of year when buds are budding and birds Add bows of pretty gingham checks and include tiny birds are singing. A small garden planted along the entryway can and eggs to create a festive greeting. White wicker rocking chairs accented with flowery pil- contain colorful plants that will attract butterflies in the lows will certainly add seasonal charm. A bouquet of pink warm days to come. tulips along with fresh spring greenery and dyed eggshells Eye-catching doorways are decked out with the ideal filled with daffodils tucked into an umbrella can make for combinations of flowers along with bright colors and pleasan original decoration. Fashion ribbons, craft store birds ing containers. With just a little time and imagination, your and nests, fresh flowers, ferns and moss onto standard twig front door and entryway can delight you, your family and wreaths embellished with paper butterflies or dragonflies friends and provide joy as we welcome this most sensory of seasons. secured with hot glue to accentuate your front door.
Practice Safety. Reduce Power Outages.
PLANT TREES WISELY. Trees and power lines don’t get along well.
Tree Planting Guide 50' 40'
When limbs and branches grow long enough to touch power lines, they can cause unsafe
30'
conditions. That combination also causes power outages around 300 a year. You can help Baldwin EMC by giving power lines space when you’re planting trees.
20' 10'
NO TREE ZONE
0 10'2
www.baldwinemc.com
0'
30'
40'
Small Tree Zone: Trees
less than 25’ tall/spread at least 25’ from lines.
50'
60'
Medium Tree Zone: Trees 25’-40’ in height/spread at least 40’ from lines.
70'
Large Tree Zone: Plant trees larger than
40’ in height/ spread at least 60’ from lines.
22HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
April 3 – 16, 2015
2015 home decor trends By Theresa Corbin The birds are chirping and the sun has peeked out from behind the winter grey. That means it is time to roll up the sleeves and get to spring cleaning. And what better way to spruce up the home for spring than to add some hot new decorating trends to your nest. Say goodbye to the mason jars, burlap and chevrons and embrace this year’s hot trends. “Unexpected textures and an eclectic, modern vibe are about to find their way in 2015. Expect to see a more sophisticated look in 2015 that incorporates gold hardware, natural textures, and a subtle mid-century modern undertone,” writes Kerrie Kelly, a Zillow Digs design expert.
Texturize
New in texture: Tassels and fringe are in for everything from curtains to pillows to throws. Natural textures are all the rage and coming to homes near you in the form of rustic wood, smooth ceramics and cool cement. According to Apartment Therapy editors, “texture has been creeping back into home decor for a while, a reaction to the slick, super-modern looks that prevailed in the early 2000s.
Color
As for colors trends, Pantone, the world-renowned authority on color, has named Marsala the color of the year for 2015. Named after a red, Italian wine and a rich, earthy, Indian spice, this year's number one color is sure to satisfy. “Marsala enriches our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability. Marsala is a subtly seductive shade, one that draws us in to its embracing warmth,” says Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of Pantone Color Institute. In other color news, this year’s runners up include a bold Greek blue and all shades of olive green. Sara Story of Sarastory Design in New York told House Beautiful, “the blue of the Mediterranean, and the tops of the churches in Santorini [… is] so rich and fabulous, perfect when paired with a grey or pink.” And “olive green […] is warm, organic and neutral for almost any other color you pair it with,” Capella Kincheleo of Capella Kincheleo Interior Design in Arizona told “House Beautiful.”
Affix
Fixtures are also warming up in 2015. Experts say fixtures are leaving behind their nickel and stainless finishes and dressing up in coppers and gold tones, with extra shiny gold-flecked faucets and chandeliers taking the spotlight. “This retro statement hardware color will make a comeback in 2015 with a new mod-
ern twist: bright gold with a sleek finish for extra shine. In 2015, homeowners will no longer be limited to silver or stainless steel fixtures, and [...] go bold with all gold,” according to design experts at Zillow.com. Don't have a taste for gold? Or are you sick of matching all your hardware? Designers are touting a new trend in mixing and matching finishes. Go for a copper shower head and mix it with a silver towel rack. Old rules of twin finishes need not apply.
Furnish
The no matching rule applies to furniture as well. No need to buy a love seat and sofa in the same style anymore because matching furniture is last season. A trend that seems to be on track to have some staying power. Modern/mid-century modern elements are also back and in full swing. Think about a throwback to modern design elements of the 1950s to the 1970s. “For a better idea of what to look for in mid-century modern pieces, think IKEA meets the Jetsons,” says Lesley Southam interior designer at M4 Studio in New Orleans.
Resurface
Thinking the floor needs some updating? Don’t resurface. Just throw a rug over it. Rugs are hot this year, with cowhide rugs being the creme de la creme. Since the cave paintings at Lascaux, designs on walls have been a must have for most of human history. Until the past few decades, when designers put the kibosh on wallpaper. But good trends die hard. And wallpaper is resurfacing in a big way in 2015. In all pattern and textures from the subtle and feminine to the bold and stand out prints, wallpaper is taking off. If you are looking to be the hip house on the block, think about incorporating some of these hot new home design elements to your roost. And always remember, if trends are not to your taste, feel free to pass them by.
What’s hot? Cowhide rugs
ey
Available at 98 Cows in Loxl
Fringe pillows Target.com
Gold-flecked chandelier
HomeDepot.com
April 3 –16, 2015
Spring Home and Garden
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 23HG
Spring is here, now is the time to plant! CHICKEN SWAP & KET S MAR FARMER ap anything!
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24HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
April 3 – 16, 2015
Tips for a happy spring look By Dooley Berry
1 2 3 4
Select easy-care plants for your pots or containers, such as heat-tolerant geraniums, graceful grasses, sweet potato vines and other trailing or spreading flowers such as pansies and petunias. Combine annuals and perennials of different textures, heights and bloom types to enhance visual appeal. Get instant lushness by packing more plants into your chosen container than you would in the garden. Plants sold in 4-inch or larger pots can better tolerate crowded conditions than plants in cell packs. Consider grouping containers around the front door in odd numbers to create maximum impact. Using three pots of varying sizes is quite eye-pleasing.
5 6
Pick containers that are both practical and pretty. Resin pots are lightweight and long lasting. Concrete, terra cotta or stone pots can add a showy display. Early spring flowering plants that can be chosen include petunias, pansies, angelonia, geraniums and lobelia.
Silverhill Market Gift & Garden “Specializing In”
22965 Hwy. 59 Robertsdale, AL 36567
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April 3 –16, 2015
Spring Home and Garden
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 25HG
413 E. Laurel Ave. Foley, AL 36535
700 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL 36526
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251-626-5000
Serving South Baldwin County Since 1916
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26HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
April 3 – 16, 2015
Guidelines for companion planting By Destiny Brown Some plants work well together when planted in the same pot or in the same plot square. They feed off of each other’s nutrients, and chemical reactions between plants can produce even more delicious results. Companion plants can provide protection from winds and weather, act as shade, be decoys for harmful insects and provide physical support for their fellow plants.
DO
n Give each plant enough space to spread its roots. n Companion planting can help repel insects. Insects use wavelengths to determine what vegetables are growing
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in a garden. Companion planting confuses insects about where to hide, reproduce or eat. n Plant short, shade-tolerant plants, like lettuce, under larger, bushier plants, such as tomatoes and peppers. n Growing an abundance of plant species can guarantee that if one crop takes a beating from pests or disease, there will still be others left.
DON’T
n Avoid mixing tomatoes or carrots with dill. n Don’t plant beans with garlic, chives or onions. n Don’t mix fennel with other plants.
April 3 –16, 2015
Spring Home and Garden
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 27HG
SC 100 Push Models – Starting at $249.99*
Come on over to Elberta Hardware! “We service and finance what we sell”
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28HG n Gulf Coast BUZZ
Spring Home and Garden
April 3 – 16, 2015
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 29
culturally speaking
submitted photos
Baldwin County High School’s Tigerettes and Tiger Guard are hosting a Day of Dance and Spin April 18. Participants will learn routines and receive basic dance instruction.
Join the Tigerettes and Tiger Guard Day of Dance and Spin
J
oin the Baldwin County High School Tigerettes and Tiger Guard for a Day of Dance and Spin at the BCHS gym on April 18 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is open to children in second through 11th grades. This will be a fun day of dance instruction for beginner, intermediate and advanced dancers. A flag spin session will also introduce the basics of color guard. No experience is needed. The day will be devoted to developing dance fundamentals, as well as learning fun routines with unique choreography taught by the two performing teams. The day will end with a special performance for parents. A waiver and release form must be completed and signed prior to the event. This form as well as a schedule of events and other information can be found on the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce website, under “Community Calendar.”
if you go WHAT: Day of Dance and Spin Session WHO: Second – 11th grade students WHERE: April 18; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. WHERE: Baldwin County High School Gym COST: $30 per person; all participants receive a T-shirt FIND OUT MORE: Elizabeth.B.Byrd@gmail.com
what to wear Tennis shoes, dance sneakers or jazz shoes Comfortable athletic clothing or dance wear (allow participants to move and stretch in)
No need to let your fitness rou�ne suffer during your vaca�on… check out the
ORANGE BEACH RECREATION CENTER, AQUATICS CENTER & TENNIS CENTER
ORANGE BEACH RECREATION CENTER 4849 Wilson Blvd. (Just off Canal Road) 251-981-6028 Mon - Fri, 8 am - 6 pm; Sat, 10 am - 4 pm; Sun, 1pm - 5pm
- Short Term & Annual Memberships - 24 hr. workout room access available to members - Day Passes Available - Fitness Room, Indoor Basketball Court, Game Room, Classes in Yoga, Zumba, Pilates
ORANGE BEACH AQUATICS CENTER 4853 Wilson Blvd. (Just off Canal Road) 251-974-7946 (SWIM) Mon - Fri, 8 am - 6 pm Sat, 10 am - 4 pm; Sun, 1pm - 5pm WATER AEROBICS CLASSES TOO!
ORANGE BEACH TENNIS CENTER 4851 Wilson Blvd. (Just off Canal Road) 251-974-6387 (NETS) Pro Shop Mon - Fri, 8 am - 6 pm Sat, 10 am - 4 pm; Sun, 1pm - 5pm Courts Open: 6 am - 10 pm
30 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
April 3 – 16, 2015
WHERE TO GO
Roping in a cure n North Baldwin hosts Relay for Life event at Faulkner State
F
olks in the north part of Baldwin County have been working and raising funds all year for the North Baldwin Relay for Life celebration, which returns this year to the Faulkner State campus in Bay Minette. North Baldwin Relay for Life Chair Ashley Jones said the event will be one to remember, adding that many of the Faulkner State clubs and organizations will be on hand for the event with booths and activities for people to take part in. This year’s theme has a Western motif: “Giving Cancer the Boot and Roping in a Cure!” In a change from previous years, the Survivor dinner will be held the night before the main Relay event: Thursday, April 16 at 6 p.m. in the Cox Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church in Bay Minette. For more information, contact Ashley Jones at 251-9375665 or Devonna Johnson at 251-344-9858,
if you go WHAT: North Baldwin Relay for Life celebration WHEN: Friday, April 17 from 6 p.m. – midnight WHERE: Faulkner State Community College, Bay Minette FIND OUT MORE: RelayForLife.org/NorthBaldwinAL; Facebook. com/RelayForLifeNorthBaldwinAlabama
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 31
ALL ABOUT FOOD
Feed the need By Jill Clair Gentry jillianclair@gmail.com
Jill
ir Gentry Cla
T
here’s something so communal about food, isn’t there? We love to gather around the dinner table with friends and family, meet people at restaurants and cook for those we love. Food is uniting, and it’s something we can all relate to. That’s why I love incorporating food into serving others. In fact, I love it so much I quit my job at the newspaper to do it fulltime (visit RansomCafe.com if that sounds interesting to you). But this column isn’t about my ministry. It’s about some wonderful women I have the privilege of knowing who recently combined their resources, time and talent in the kitchen to bless a group of people often overlooked by mainstream society. These women got together recently on a Sunday afternoon, left their kids with their husbands and spent about three hours cooking everything from pancakes to roast to chicken to cornbread dressing, all to be packaged as freezer meals for new foster families. These families are often called “forgotten families” because traditionally, there has not been much support available for them. But as awareness grows through organizations like The Forgotten Initiative and Together We Rise, churches and other groups across the nation are providing more and more care for these families. This group of women feels called to help carry that burden
Kerri’s grandmother’s cornbread dressing Ingredients n n n n n n n n n
1 9-by-13-inch pan cornbread, baked and crumbled 1 stick butter 1 small onion 1 bag cornbread stuffing mix 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can cream of celery soup 2 cans chicken stock Salt, pepper and poultry seasoning to taste Whole chicken or turkey, shredded (optional)
Preparation Preheat oven to 450 F. In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Mix all ingredients together until cornbread is saturated. Bake in 450 F oven until top is golden brown, about an hour.
photo by jill clair gentry
in whatever way possible. Several in the group feel the call to actually become foster parents, while others are doing their part in other ways — organizing these freezer meals or putting together “Journey Bags” (visit TheForgottenInitiative.com for more information). And you know what? Coming together to work toward a common cause is a blast. It’s not complicated. It’s not extremely time consuming. And there’s nothing that bonds people better than serving together. So no matter what cause or group of people makes your heart thump in your chest, I encourage you to think of tangible ways you can make a difference. I promise you will get more out of it than you give. If you’re having trouble getting started, just remember … everyone likes food. It can’t hurt to start in the kitchen.
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GulfCoastNewsToday.com
between the pages
April 3 – 16, 2015 Tell Cliff what you are reading at cmccollum@gulfcoastnewspapers.com
“I Must Say: My Life as a Humble Comedy Legend” by Martin Short
W
hen most people think of Martin Short, he’s the cheery, lovely guy; he’s the old-fashioned song-anddance man, born a bit too late for his generation. In his solid memoir “I Must Say: My Life as a Humble Comedy Legend,” Short writes of his rise to success from a childhood that turned from idyllic to tragic in Canada, to struggling as a stage performer, before finding success on the classic SCTV and later on finding stardom in Hollywood. What makes Short’s story engaging is his unerring optimism. Suffering the deaths of his older brother and both his parents before he was 20, and later losing his wife of almost 40 years in 2010, as
well as mourning the loss of friends, could make Short’s story a sad read, and often it is when he writes of his mourning. But, he creates an appealing, almost underdog of a narrative voice, who processes these considerable tragedies with grace and dignity. As a celebrity memoir, “I Must Say” is a solid affair. It’s upbeat and its author comes off as generally grateful and gracious. For some, an edgier voice would’ve been more interesting, and Short’s writing can tip dangerously close to saccharine, but he’s still a brilliantly funny guy and even if readers won’t necessarily get that from this work, it’s still a largely enjoyable and easy read.
“Five Star Liquidation” 413 SO. MCKENZIE ST., FOLEY
(Across from Regions Bank)
Cliff McC o
32 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
m llu
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 33
AIMING AND ANGLING
Cobia
craze Blake Maraman Registered nurse, photojournalist and outdoors enthusiast
B e Maraman lak
blakemrn@gmail.com
T
he hunt is on — for cobia! Cobia are a long, brownish-colored fish with a white belly, and tend to have a shark-like appearance. Cobia pass by the Alabama coast in the spring during their seasonal westerly migration. They are known for their attraction to noise and lack of fear of boats. The Alabama state record for cobia was set in 1995 weighing 117 pounds, 7 ounces! The cobia is one of the most sought-after game fish, and that is evident when you see all the boats filled with anglers looking to experience the cobia adrenaline rush. But, to catch one of these curious, powerful fish, you need to be prepared with a game plan, according to Jimmy Waller, a local charter boat owner/captain. Capt. Jimmy prefers to fish for cobia in 25 to 45 feet of water with live eels. “Sight fishing is my favorite method to fish for cobia — it’s hunting and fishing combined,” he says. “First, you have to find them, and then you have to put the boat in the right place to make a good cast to the fish.” Even though the average cobia caught weighs about 40 pounds, he has been involved in catching cobia weighing as much as 103 pounds!
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I 251-747-4893; Jimmer41@hotmail.com;
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According to Capt. Jimmy, “The key to successfully catching cobia is a combination of having expert boat handling, skillful anglers to make an accurate cast and of course, a live eel.” Capt. Jimmy’s Fish Tacos Blacken cobia in a cast iron skillet, crumble into a tortilla; add lettuce, tomato, avocado and salsa.
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GulfCoastNewsToday.com
34 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
April 3 – 16, 2015
chew on this
Don’t miss regional restaurant fun Jill
By Jill Clair Gentry
ir Gentry Cla
jillianclair@gmail.com
T
he Buzz is a magazine geared toward Baldwin County, so we try to only feature Baldwin County topics, including restaurants. While I am a major rule follower, I would like to bend the rules just this once. Baldwin County has a fantastic food scene, and I am not even close to running out of restaurants to review for you, but sometimes Scott and I do enjoy driving to Pensacola or Mobile to eat, as I’m sure many of you do as well. Baldwin County restaurants cover the fine dining scene well, and there are so many amazing restaurants that are affordable and possess a unique charm. However, something I think is missing in Baldwin County are mid-priced restaurants that truly push the envelope (disclaimer: I know we have a handful of restaurants that fit into this category so please don’t send me hate mail!). For Scott’s birthday, we drove to Pensacola and had such a fun experience at The Global Grill downtown. It seemed so trendy and adventurous that we were sure it was new and wouldn’t stick around long. We asked our server (who was fabulous) how long it had been in business, and I was surprised to learn The Global Grill has been a popular restaurant in Pensacola for more
75 S Section Street Fairhope, AL
251-928-8029
than a decade. The Global Grill, opened in 2003 by Chef Frank Taylor, is a tapas (small plates) restaurant that combines Mediterranean, European, Asian and American flavors into some super fun dishes. I love tapas because you order two to three small dishes per person and share everything — it’s such a fun, intimate way to eat, perfect for a date night or get-together with close friends. Conversation seems to flow easier as you work your way through five or six plates of food together rather than focusing on finishing one giant steak or piece of fish. Plus, for foodies like us, exploring all those different flavor combinations in one meal is a dream come true. I apologize for the lack of photos to accompany this one — it was a dark restaurant and I didn’t want to ruin Scott’s birthday by taking his food and photographing it somewhere else before he could dig in.
What we ate
1. Black and blue salad: incredibly tender slices of beef tenderloin served over greens that actually possessed their own flavor instead of being carriers for salad dressing — I couldn’t get over it. Three blanched jumbo asparagus were under the greens. Also on the salad were these tiny cherries (unlike any cherries
Here’s what to expect Our Vision is “to bring added joy, well-being and value to people’s lives!”
Top Quality Meat
#1 Triple Inspected Produce
Happy Easter from Our Family to Yours! Lucy
Vi it ourr web Visit Vis website www.greers.com for weekly ad prices!
Large Selection of Grocery
Fairhope Market Deli & Bakery
Huge variety of snacks, wines, Regular, Craft and Pick 6 Beers. Your favorite Dairy, Frozen, and Gluten Free Items! National Brands and our Award Winning Best Choice & Always Save Private Label Products.
Best Fried Chicken on the planet! Home Cooking, Fresh Baked Breads & Cookies, Sliced Meats, Specialty Cheeses and Much More!
22245 Hwy. 59 So. Robertsdale, AL
251-947-2962 12255 Lillian Hwy. Pensacola, FL
850-455-2719
Top quality Black Angus Beef, All Natural Pork and Chicken PLUS an unbeatable pick 5 selection!
Inspected in the Field, at our Warehouse and in our store.
April 3 –16, 2015
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I’ve ever tasted), a few crumbles of blue cheese and a delicious dressing that didn’t distract from the other ingredients. Robust cheese plate: I love cheese. If there’s a cheese plate on a menu, I’m going to order it, so I’ve had a lot of cheese plates, and this is the best one I’ve had. There is something so magical about combining different cheeses with nuts, jellies, honey and fruit. Rabbit livers: Yep, rabbit livers. They were fried and placed on top of a cracker and garnished with sprouts, and they tasted great. Pork belly pot stickers: This was our least favorite item, but it was still good. Pretty straightforward — braised pork belly and wild mushrooms stuffed into a wonton and drizzled with miso butter sauce. Peppercorn beef tenderloin brochettes: crispy (but somehow not grisly or chewy) pieces of beef tenderloin coated with pepper and cooked on a long skewer … such an interesting way to serve beef. Loved the presentation and the house-made Worcestershire sauce was a great accompaniment. Molten chocolate cake with a scoop of basil ice cream (made in-house, of course): I can’t adequately describe how cool the combination of rich chocolate and basil ice cream is.
All of this rang up to be about $100. I’ll take it for a memorable, fun, delicious birthday dinner for my favorite person.
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 35
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For rates and more information email: Eastern Shore frank@gulfcoastmedia.com and North Baldwin rebecca@gulfcoastmedia.com
restaurant profile NAME: The Global Grill: upscale tapas bar & restaurant LOCATION: 27 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola HOURS: Tuesday – Thursday, 5 – 9 p.m.; Friday – Saturday 5 – 10 p.m. CUISINE: New American entrees and tapas PRICE: $$$$$ FIND OUT MORE: GlobalGrillPensacola.com; 850-469-9966
Central Baldwin and South Baldwin
jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com brad@gulfcoastmedia.com
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Foley • 251.987.5129 — Orange Beach • 251.965.5129
e b l l i w e W Closed Easter Day Daily Chef Specials
Local seafood tradition since 1973 Hand-Cut Steaks
Family Friendly
We cater!
WolfBayLodge.com
Waterfront Dining in Orange Beach
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36 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 Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. Foley Good Time Charley’s Tuesdays at 10 p.m. The Office Lounge Wednesdays at 9 p.m. Ft. Morgan Tacky Jacks Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Gulf Shores Behind the Pines Bar & Grill Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Mudbugs Thursday – Saturday at 8 p.m. Pink Pony Pub every night at 9 p.m. Tacky Jacks Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Lillian Lillian’s Cafe and Coffee House Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Orange Beach Island Time Daiquiri Bar Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Live Bait every night at 8 p.m. Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. The Undertow Wednesday – Saturday at 9 p.m.
Snapper’s Lounge Saturdays at 8 p.m. Perdido Key Happy Harbor on the Line Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Robertsdale Buddy’s Lounge Friday and Saturday nights
Open Mic
Fairhope American Legion 199 open guitar jams Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. The Gumbo Shack Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Old 27 Grill Bay Area Songwriter’s Association first and third Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Plow every other Tuesday Foley The Office Lounge Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Gulf Shores Tacky Jacks Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Orange Beach Happy Harbor the Mothership Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Island Time Daiquiri Bar Tuesdays with Brittany Bell at 9 p.m. Live Bait Sundays at 8 p.m. Pleasure Island Tiki Bar
Coffee, Black is scheduled to play at Cobalt on April 5 and April 12.
April 3 – 16, 2015
Compiled by Destiny Brown Email dbrown@gulfcoastnewspapers.com to update or add listings.
Tuesdays from 6 – 9 p.m. Perdido Key Flora-Bama Mondays at 6 p.m.
Trivia
Daphne Moe’s Bar B Que Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Top of the Bay Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 9 p.m. Fairhope Fairhope Brewing Company Thursdays Ravenite Pizzeria Trivia Tuesdays, Sports Trivia Wednesdays Foley Good Time Charley’s everyday at 10 p.m. The Office Lounge Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
Bingo
Mario Mena Band Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Dale Drinkard Jr. Duo
Saturday, April 4
Fairhope American Legion Post 199 Donnie Mills Foley American Legion Post 99 Robert Broom Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach DJ Mental Extract LuLu’s Kyle and Karl Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Tacky Jacks Tommy Morse Orange Beach Tacky Jacks Cornbred Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Mario Mena Band Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Fat Lincoln
Gulf Shores Tacky Jacks Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Orange Beach Bear Point Civic Association Thursdays at 7 p.m. Tacky Jacks Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Mondays at 7 p.m. Perdido Key Flora-Bama Monday through Friday 1-4 p.m.
Sunday, April 5
Friday, April 3
Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach DJ Mental Extract Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Tacky Jacks Bean Soup Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Cosmos Brittany Bell Tacky Jacks John and Melissa Joiner Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farms Grayson Capps, Dylan LeBlanc, Sugarcane Jane, Cary Laine, Corky Hughes
Daphne Top of the Bay Superfunk Fantasy Fairhope American Legion Post 199 Craig Brayer Old 27 Grill Them Again Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Lisa Zanghi LuLu’s Sugarcane Jane Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Tacky Jacks Charlie Wilson and Mel Knapp Orange Beach Tacky Jacks Bud Smith Duo Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar
Gulf Shores Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Tacky Jacks Bean Soup Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Grayson Capps, Dylan LeBlanc, Sugarcane Jane, Cary Laine, Corky Hughes
Sunday, April 5
Monday, April 6
April 3 –16, 2015
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Gulf Coast BUZZ n 37
live local music Gulf Shores Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey
Tuesday, April 7 Gulf Shores LuLu’s Jon Cowart Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Brandon White
Wednesday, April 8 Gulf Shores The Hangout Redfield / DJ Ellux Furor LuLu’s Webb Dalton Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Orange Beach Compleat Angler Destiny Brown
Thursday, April 9
Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Ben Tuberville LuLu’s JERI Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Orange Beach Baumhower’s Destiny Brown Gilbey’s Marty McIntosh Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Eric Erdman
Friday, April 10
Fairhope American Legion Post 199 Sharon Moore Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Charlie Wilson and Mel Knapp LuLu’s Adam Holt Meyer Park Uncle Lucius Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Tacky Jacks Johnny Barbato Orange Beach Gilbey’s Joey Arata Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Grand Central
Saturday, April 11 Daphne
Top of the Bay Cinge Fairhope American Legion Post 199 Mackie Lister Foley American Legion Post 99 Bruti Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Barstool Surfers / DJ Mental Extract LuLu’s Albert Simpson Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Tacky Jacks Soulfood Junkies Orange Beach Gilbey’s Joey Arata Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Grand Central Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Cary Laine
Sunday, April 12
Foley American Legion Post 99 Southern Star Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach DJ Mental Extract LuLu’s Cadillac Attack Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Pink Pony Pub Whyte Caps Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Cosmos Brittany Bell Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farms Grayson Capps, Nikki Talley, Corky Hughes, Jon Cook, Riley Yielding, Andrew Ellis
Monday, April 13 Gulf Shores Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey
Tuesday, April 14 Gulf Shores LuLu’s Albert Simpson Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Bruce Smith
Wednesday, April 15 Gulf Shores
Catch the Whyte Caps on Friday, April 17 at Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores.
LuLu’s Albert Simpson Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey Orange Beach Compleat Angler Destiny Brown
Thursday, April 16
Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Charlie Wilson LuLu’s Alvarado Road Show Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Orange Beach Baumhower’s Destiny Brown Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Brandon White Duo
Friday, April 17
Fairhope American Legion Post 199 Johnny Barbato Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Barstool Surfers LuLu’s Alvarado Road Show Papa Rocco’s Logan and Jen Tacky Jacks Whyte Caps Orange Beach Gilbey’s Scott Bryan Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Strickly Isbell Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Dale Drinkard Jr.
saturday, April 18 Orange Beach Gilbey’s Mac Walter
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 Tuesday – Saturday 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
38 n Gulf Coast BUZZ
April 3 – 16, 2015
TASTINGS
A new era of discovery Jon Robitaille
Jo
n
Beer/Wine Specialist at Cain’s Piggly Wiggly
L
et’s face it: there is a new generation of wine drinkers out there and they love it. This generation is in a discovery phase and is not afraid to try
bitaille Ro
jrobitaille@cainsgrocery.com
something different. Thus, you are seeing more shelf space devoted to varietals such as viognier, bordeaux, vinho verde, zinfandel, chenin blanc, pinotage, etc. Obviously, bottle shops will continue to service consumers’ needs with the mainstays, but it’s this new era of discovery that makes wine drinking so much fun. Let’s look at a few examples to get you started on your own personal path of discovery.
wines to try
Justin Monmousseau 2013 Vouvray Blanc de Blancs (France)
Straw yellow in color and a nose of white fleshed and tropical fruit, this wine has a good balance between structure, vivacity and freshness. Starting with a white wine, Vouvray is a wine from the French region of the Loire Valley. Loire Valley wine is tended from the Chenin Blanc grape and produces a tender dry wine that is excellent with fish, seafood or white meat if served chilled around 47 to 50 degrees.
Grey [Glacier] 2011 Carmenere (Maipo Valley, Chile)
This carmenere is sourced from a single block in La Trinidad Vineyard and spent 18 months in French oak barrels. The result is an outstanding wine of elegant character with silky tannins and intense black fruit flavors. Carmenere is a red grape with an interesting history. Originally planted in the Medoc region of Bordeaux, France, it was once considered extinct after the Phylloxera plague in 1867 nearly wiped out the vineyards of Europe. Roughly 20 years ago, carmenere was rediscovered growing in Chile and has since help Chilean wines rise to prominence.
Pi-3.1415 Red Wine 2011 (Aragon, Spain)
As unique as the number pi, this wine comes from handpicked concejon grapes aged for 12 months in new oak barrels. It possesses a deep, black ruby-red color with blue highlights. The blueberry fruit dominates and the black and red cherry flavors blend with strawberry, spices and a hint of milk chocolate. The concejon grape (also known as moristel) is a minor Spanish red grape variety and is found mainly in the region of Aragon. It has compact bunches with medium-sized, cylindrical-shaped berries with a blue hue and is traditionally used for blending with other varieties to add body and color to a wine.
April 3 –16, 2015
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Gulf Coast BUZZ n 39