Dec. 16 IN News Issue

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DECEMBER 16, 2010 | VOLUME 11 | NUMBER 48 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

2010 PROCRASTINATOR'S GIFT GUIDE

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Contents COLUMNS

3 WINNERS & LOSERS 4 OUTTAKES

24 NEWS OF THE WEIRD 27LAST WORD

NEWS/FEATURES/ARTS

6 NEWS: LEGAL HIGH ON THE WAY OUT 9 COVER STORY: NAUGHTY OR NICE 14 2010 PROCRASTINATOR’S GIFT GUIDE 19 A&E: A HOLIDAY CLASSIC 22 MUSIC: FEEL THE FUNK 24 CULTURE: CHAMPAGNE WISHES

2 | INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bradley “B.J.” Davis, Jr., Joani Delezen, Hana Frenette, Ashley Hardaway, Scott Huhn, Rob “Bubbs” Harris, Erica House, Brett Hutchins, Jennie McKeon, Kate Peterson, Chuck Shepard, Will Strickland, Trevor Webb PRODUCTION MANAGER Joani Delezen ART DIRECTOR Samantha Crooke SALES DIRECTOR Jennifer Passeretti

© 2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved.

P.O. Box 12082 • Pensacola, Fla. 32591 850-438-8115 • 1-866-724-9396 Fax: 850-438-0228 • info@inweekly.net

Standard postage paid at Pensacola, Fla. All stories are compiled from press releases, submissions, news wires or assignments. Comments and opinions expressed in this newspaper represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and are not necessarily those of INDEPENDENT NEWS or the publisher. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher is responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., contained in INDEPENDENT NEWS. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher.

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OVER QUALIFIED? UNDER APPRECIATED? BUSINESS EXPERIENCE?

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winners & losers losers

winners COMMUNITY MARITIME PARK The daily

MARITIME PARK DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS

newspaper article proclaiming that Quint and Rishy Studer may have bought a Major League Baseball Double-A team to play in the maritime park to start the 2012 baseball season is a great announcement. We expect Marty Donovan, Charles Fairchild and other members of the Tick Tock Gang, who attacked the Studers for not having a MLB team, to write letters to the editor congratulating the Studers and thanking the couple for spending millions to eliminate one more objection of the naysayers.

The face and primary spokesman for the developer of the maritime park has been Scott Davison of the now-defunct Land Capital Group. The CMPA board voted to fire MPDP as the project coordinator for the park when CMPA’s executive director, contractor owner’s representative and attorney told the board that MPDP was being paid for the same duties that CMPA was paying the park’s builder, Magi Construction. Whoever MPDP’s owners are, Dec. 10 wasn’t a good day for them.

ED FLEMING The attorney for the Com-

TONY MCCRAY & ESCAMBIA-PENSACOLA HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION Although they

munity Maritime Park Associates knew he would be attacked by representatives of Maritime Park Development Partners when he made his recommendations to the CMPA board of trustees on Dec. 10.

However, no one expected them to snipe at him behind his back while he was speaking to the board. Fleming recommended the CMPA board fire MPDP as the project coordinator and thereby save over half a million dollars. The MPDP’s childish whispers didn’t influence the board or the audience.

The board voted 9-2 to fire MPDP.

have no construction experience, MPDP hired McCray and EPHRC to run the EBO program for the maritime park. Their inexperience has shown in their failure to recognize the issues minority contractor Greg Green had with Heaton Brothers and Magi Construction. Their focus seems to be in holding a series of seminars in the first quarter of 2011. By then, most of the construction contracts will already have been signed. People need jobs, not more meetings.

GEORGE HAWTHORNE The CEO of Diver-

PENSACOLA PELICANS There may be no

sity Program Advisors, Inc. drafted the Equal Business Opportunity program for MPDP. He has been a champion for minority contractors and workers for the Community Maritime Park, which has put him in an adversarial role against MPDP for it allegedly not complying with the EBO agreement. Hawthorne has filed two formal EBO complaints against MPDP. One has been held up as valid by the EBO Compliance Officer and the CMPA EBO Committee.

minor league baseball in Pensacola for the 2011 season. In order for the Studers to purchase a MLB Double-A team, they had to sell their independent Single-A team, Pensacola Pelicans. Next year, the Studers will own a Double-A which will stay in its present location in the Southern League.

The good news is that Pensacola fans can watch their future team play often since six of the 10 current Southern League teams are within a six-hour drive from Pensacola.

Business Law Real Estate Law Litigation

Contracts Business Purchases Corporations, LLC’s & LLP’s Asset Protection Collections Chapter 11 Real Estate Development Planning & Zoning Issues Condominium & HOA Law Contracts & Documentation Closings & Title Work 1031 Exchanges Construction Litigation Real Estate Litigation Securities Litigation Business Disputes Breach of Contract Association Issues Hurricane Claims Insurance Disputes Stockbroker Misconduct Trials in Florida, Alabama & Federal Courts

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Development Partners (MPDP) was fired recently as the project manager for the Community Maritime Park. As our investigation revealed, there are definite issues about the bid process, contract formation and contract performance of MPDP. CMPA attorney Ed Fleming is investigating those issues for the Community Maritime Park Associates board of trustees and should report his findings at the first board meeting next year.

How did we get in such a predicament with the developer of the most important public/private project in our history? There is plenty of blame to go around.

Land Capital Group, Scott Davison and their team focused hard on the minority community to win the bid for the maritime park. They made commitments beyond the important Covenant with the Community to seed the Contractors’ Academy with $250,000, sustain it with annual contributions up to $500,000 from its profits and to have subcontractors in all parts of the project that matched the demographics of Pensacola.

Those bold promises kept the minority community in their corner on every important vote until recently when MPDP had problems delivering on those promises.

The naysayers played a role with their bizarre obsession with Quint Studer and the stadium. Had they used the same efforts to challenge MPDP, Davison and their actions, they might have succeeded in a petition drive against the votes to approve MPDP as the developer or Magi Construction as the general contractor. However, their fixations on Studer and the stadium hurt their ability to look at those critical votes. It turns out the real issue wasn’t Studer, the stadium or the bonds, but the developer.

It was the fear of another petition that hamstrung those who saw possible problems with MPDP as Davison’s numerous loan

defaults surfaced and the members of his development team continued to change, as well as the Contractors’ Academy never getting off the ground.

Many worried that dropping MPDP would open the maritime park project to more petition drives by Marty Donovan, Charles Fairchild and the rest of their group. The hope was MPDP would deliver on the promises that it made during the bid process, but it became more obvious in recent weeks that the company wasn’t equipped to be the project manager and that Magi Construction was the true project manager.

The media played a role in this, too. I interviewed all five finalists from the Request for Qualifications process, but I didn’t check into every member listed on the development teams. When the decision on the master developer was narrowed down to two candidates, I again interviewed both Land Capital/MPDP and Trinity Advisors, but I failed to dig deeper into the changes in the make-up of each group.

When MPDP was chosen, my attention turned to other issues. I wrote about my concerns on how MPDP lobbied the CMPA board and the Pensacola City Council on issues such as the placement of the maritime museum. There were red flags about the performance bond, but adding Hoar Construction seemed to put the project on much better footing. When Davison’s loan issues arose, I didn’t become concerned until last August when MPDP was specifically listed in a default judgment. However, I could have done a better job in investigating MPDP, Davison and his team much earlier than I did.

The good news is Magi Construction, thanks to Hoar Construction, has the maritime park on schedule and within budget.

What happens next with MPDP will be decided next month. rick@inweekly.net

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INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

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news

LEGAL HIGH ON THE WAY OUT DEA, ARMED FORCES BAN SPICE

BY BRETT HUTCHINS

S

pice, K2, Blaze and Red X Dawn are hot commodities. These synthetic cannabis products—fake marijuana—are sold legally in local tobacco and “head” shops and marketed as natural or herbal incense.

There are no age limits on who can buy Spice and it can’t be detected in routine drug tests.

The impact of smoking Spice is unpredictable, and the effects range from mellowness to intense paranoia. After reports of bizarre behavior from a number of sailors stationed at Pensacola NAS in 2009, the military moved to place businesses that sell it off-limits.

At the first of the year, the Marine Corps Forces Command explicitly prohibited Marines from using a number of legal substances, including Spice, to achieve an altered state of consciousness or a druglike “high.” The order came three days

after a Jan. 24 Jacksonville, N.C. Daily News article about two junior Marines who were told they may face court-martial after obtaining packets of Spice in town and smoking it aboard Camp Lejeune.

Last month, the DEA placed an emergency ban on all “fake pot” chemicals used to make Spice and its competitors so that the FDA can study their effects and safety. Stores have until Dec. 24 to clear their shelves, and anyone found in possession of Spice after the deadline will face punishment similar to that of those found in possession of cocaine.

Spice is similar in appearance to marijuana, and has a sweet smell similar to fig cookie bars. The texture of the drug is that of soft, dry herbs. The usual symptoms of being under Spice’s inf luence are dilated pupils, slightly slurred speech and the appearance of being drunk without the smell of alcohol.

“It does help me relax for a while, but there’s also an intense paranoia that comes with it,” noted Tim, a UWF student and regular user.

In many cases, its effects are the exact opposite than expected. Users across the country have cited migraine-strength headaches, nausea, and lack of blood circulation throughout the body. This can

cause major concern for many people, but especially those with heart issues.

Mike, another UWF student with a rare heart disorder, spoke bluntly about this with the IN. “I’ve dabbled in the stuff, and it had a huge effect on my breathing and heartbeat. It almost felt as if my heart was beating out of my chest. It’s scary that there aren’t more blatant health warnings on the packaging.”

The path to popularity of synthetic cannabis is a long and tangled one. For a substance whose prevalence has traveled the globe and back again, it’s odd that it all began in a small southern town, Greenville, S.C., at Clemson University. In the mid-1990s, chemist John Huffman concocted a compound eponymously named JWH-018. It mirrored the effects of the active ingredient in pot: THC. After a brief honeymoon period with the American public, the compound drifted into relative obscurity. In 2004, a London company introduced a blend of compounds that has become the current version of the popular Spice. By 2009, the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, their version of the DEA, reported that synthetic cannabis was available for purchase in 21 of its 30 participating countries. Inevitably, the wave of popularity crossed the pond to the United States.

Though Spice and K2 have developed a strong following from those wanting a pot “high” without worrying about cops or employer drug tests, the long-term effects of the combination of chemical substances in the fake pot have yet to be studied. Even

Huffman, the creator of the first synthetic cannabis compound, warns of the danger of K2. “It’s like playing Russian roulette. You don’t know what it’s going to do to you,” Huffman recently told the Greenville News.

The ways synthetic cannabis has been pushed to its consumers has been devious at best, and a key to its success. Its packaging boldly states that it is “unfit for human consumption,” but is also billed as “natural incense.” What’s suspiciously absent from the ingredients list is the mixture of chemical compounds that its popularity depends on. There are so many different brands producing the material that it’s impossible to know exactly what you’re getting with your purchase.

That’s where the FDA comes in. Until recently, Spice could be easily purchased at local tobacco shops if the customer is over the age of 18. It was considered the same as buying a pack of cigarettes. No hassle, no stigma—until the DEA ban announcement.

“Until the risks associated with ingesting these products and chemicals can be studied and understood, there is no place for them on the shelves of any legitimate business,” White House Drug Policy Director Gil Kerlikowske said in the statement.

Local shops that sell Spice hate to see a popular product taken off their shelves, but will comply with the ban. “We depend on Spice for a large portion of our business,” one shop owner told IN. “The NAS ban hurt us considerably, and if the FDA follows through on what they’ve stated, we will have to find ways to adapt.” info@inweekly.net

N EWS STOR I E S YOU M AY H AV E M IS SE D MILLER LOSES ELECTION CHALLENGE

New York Times: An Alaska Superior Court judge ruled against Tea Party Senate candidate Joe Miller, rejecting the claim that the name of his write-in opponent, Republican Lisa Murkowski, had to be spelled perfectly for her votes to count.

The judge asserted that Alaska law clearly allows misspellings to be counted. The question was moot anyway, since Miller trails by more votes than he challenged.

Read nytimes.com/2010/12/11/ us/politics/11alaska.html?_ r=1&src=twt&twt=nytimes

herald.com/2010/12/10/1968116/ florida-political-muscle-grows. html#ixzz17qBnavSM

FLORIDA GAINS CONGRESSIONAL MUSCLE

THE DEMOCRATS’ SHORT-LIVED REBELLION

Miami Herald: Our Jeff Miller isn’t the only Republican congressman from Florida to gain a powerful House chairmanship.

Miami’s Ileana Ros-Lehtinen will chair Foreign Affairs and Orlando’s John Mica will head the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Miller will chair the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Read miami-

6 | INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

Washington Post: The average insurgency, the foreign policy experts say, lasts about 10 years. The average liberal rebellion against Obama appears to last about a day. Read washingtonpost.com/ wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/08/ AR2010120808215.html?nav=rss_ opinion/columns&wpisrc=xs_0005

SCOTT: SCHOOL VOUCHERS FOR EVERYONE

St. Petersburg Times: When Florida Gov.-elect Rick Scott stood in a church this week and announced his plan to essentially give vouchers to any family that wants one, the audience cheered.

Educators are worried. Not even Jeb Bush went that far. Read www. tampabay.com/news/education/ k12/scotts-schools-shake-up-seemscertain/1139425

FOR-PROFIT COLLEGES RAKE IN G.I. BILL DOLLARS

ProPublica: The University of Phoenix Online tops the list of schools receiving money from the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill in its first year. Overall, for-profit colleges collected $640 million from the bill. Public colleges and universities received $697 million, but the money went to more than twice as many students. Read propublica. org/article/for-profit-colleges-rakein-millions-from-post-9-11-g.i.-bill/

buzz MPDP BETRAYAL The one person who has been consistently mentioned in both the Request for Qualification (RFQ) and Request for Proposal (RFP) is Cynthia Griffin of Saxet Realty. Her role per the RFQ was to be in charge of Commercial Retail and Restaurant Leasing. The RFP had her role as the Coordinating Broker.

IN reached Griffin while she was traveling in Texas, where she also is a real estate broker.

The paper had been told by several sources that she had been part of the Land Capital development team from the very beginning and had brought Davison to Pensacola.

Griffin said she had not only brought Davison in the “deal,” but had hooked him up with San Antonio commercial investor Rick Rodriguez, with whom she had gone to graduate school at Texas A&M.

Griffin brought Rodriguez into the deal when it appeared Davison didn’t have the financial resources to be the master developer. She had only recently reconnected with Rodriguez, who had married one of her college friends.

“Rick owns and controls more office space in San Antonio than anyone and had recently done a big housing project with the city of San Antonio,” Griffin said. “I thought, ‘Good grief, he has his act together.’”

Griffin would not tell the IN any of the specifics of how she was to be paid or about the early negotiations of Davison and Rodriguez. She expected to be paid after MPDP signed the contract with CMPA in August 2009.

Last April, she said that they offered what she called “little girl walk away

Panama City got an attorney and a BP settlement. Pensacola is still discussing it.

BP DOLLARS FOR CITY The Pensacola City Council has been reluctant to hire a law firm to represent it against BP for the city’s lost revenue.

Meanwhile, Panama City hired a firm, Nix, Patterson and Roach, in September. The firm created an economic model to demonstrate Panama City’s sustained losses. Last week, the Panama City Beach City Council voted to accept a settlement offer from BP for $1.2 million in economic damages to the city from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

The City of Pensacola is not even in negotiations with BP over economic damages.

SCHOOL DISTRICT GIVES BACK GRANT FUNDS More MPDP issues surface from IN investigation.

The commercial real estate broker was reluctant to talk, but said that she hasn’t been paid the money she was promised by Davison and Rodriguez for arranging the deal. “I feel very betrayed by both parties,” Griffin told the IN. “I brought them together and then everything went crazy,” Griffin said.

“Everyone went back on their word. I know the commercial real estate business can be terrible, but I’ve never seen something go quite as nuts as this.”

She said that after 23 years in the business she isn’t sure she still wants to be a commercial broker. Since 1987, she has operated under the radar representing several national retailers on an exclusive basis, including Ruby Tuesday, Starbucks and Office Depot.

Griffin thought both Davison and Rodriguez were capable of developing the Community Maritime Park. “Scott is a very brilliant person. I’ve known him for 10-11 years and he is a shrewd business person. I wouldn’t have recommended him if I didn’t think he could do it.”

She said that Scott and Land Capital Group appeared to be successful in retail development. “From an intelligence and experience standpoint, Scott is very capable.”

money,” which she refused. “All I can say is that I feel betrayed and disappointed,” she said before she ended the interview. “The betrayal is so extensive by Rick, Scott and other members of the team—people that I have personally known for years.”

Through a public records request, IN did obtain a copy of an email, dated April 15, 2010, from Griffin to Davison, Jeff Galt (MPDP president) and Mark White.

She wrote that the men were to make changes to two agreements that the CMPA has no knowledge of and which Galt and Davison failed to give CMPA attorney Ed Fleming when he made his public records request: MDPD of Florida Commission Agreement and the MPLC of Florida Profit Participation Agreement.

She wrote, “…with all the PNJ disclosure, it has been evident that all vendors/contractors involved in this project, to date, have been paid LARGE (her emphasis) sums, and ‘in full.’ Since our original commission agreement calls for that, and in light of the fact that precedence has been set with others, it is necessary that the entire $60K (your original offer of $50K plus $10K for the unreasonable 8-month delay and associated interest—not to mention attorney fees) be paid upon mutual execution of both documents.”

wanted to know: 1) Why Bethel Youth Development (who piloted the program) wasn’t included in the projected budget?

2) Why did the District bill the Restorative Justice Program Administrator $2?

3) Why are site coordinators paid different salaries?

4) Invoices differ from budget and have handwritten notations. Why? 5) Invoices of Bethel and Unity don’t match what the District provided. Why? 6) “Why Try” curriculum budget had a cost of $2,110, but the invoice was only $1,650. What was the actual cost?

7) Only 44 copies of books were ordered, not 50 as listed in the budget. Why? 8) Packing slip for another book didn’t include cost information.

Hopefully, these questions aren’t why Thomas dropped the grant. Meanwhile, Florida’s budget shortfall for 2011 is getting larger—about $150 million larger.

And Gov.-elect Rick Scott wants to cut school property taxes by $1 million, which will cost about $1.37 billion. Is this the best time to give back grant money?

The Escambia County School Board discussed at its Dec. 14 regular meeting the audit of the Restorative Justice Grant, the $945,000 three-year grant that Superintendent Malcolm Thomas recommended the board cancel (Independent News, “Buzz,” Nov. 18) back in September (which they did).

The District will refund $22,346.12 to The Florida Bar Foundation.

According to IN conversations with school board members, the reason Thomas wanted to cancel the grant was the Foundation and the Collins Center were trying to control the program.

The questions from the Collins Center that are part of the audit report may shed more light upon the true reasons for Thomas wanting to give up $790,000.

The Collins Center Nobody tells Superintendent Thomas how to run his district.

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

7

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2010 EDITION

by Independent News staff Since 2004, Independent News’ tradition is to give holiday gifts to our elected officials, leaders and newsmakers. We work long, hard hours to find unique, quirky gifts that will have special meanings for both the recipients and our readers. For the 2010 gift recipients, please e n j o y y o u r g i f t s a n d r e m e m b e r t h a t i t 's t h e t h o u g h t t h a t c o u n t s . I f y o u a l r e a d y h a v e t h e g i f t we've g i ven you, sor r y, you'r e s t uck w i t h i t. We didn't s ave any o f t he r eceip t s.

Past Naughty or Nice Gifts 2004 KEVIN WHITE, Escambia County Commissioner: Santa Rosa County Commissioner Bob Cole's new book "Commissioning for Dummies," the comic book edition. There is a special forward written by fellow commissioner Tom Banjanin.

KEN FORD, Institute for Human and Machine Cognition director: Rock'em Sock'em Robots. He can pretend the blue one is the University of West Florida administration and the red one is the Pensacola City Council.

▲ASHTON HAYWARD,

Pensacola Mayor-Elect ROUSE MOUSE: These handy new IT gadgets have been installed in the White House and our new mayor might find one handy on his computer. Using technology initially developed by a group of soccer moms concerned that their 10-year-olds were developing short attention spans while cruising through the many Justin Bieber websites, the “Rouse Mouse” prevents political lollygagging by limiting the user to only three irrelevant searches before pop-ups appear, reminding the user of his agenda, where his staff is, who his staff is and who got him elected. If the user attempts to log on to GoPensacola.com, alarm bells ring and if he attempts to look at any pictures of drunk girls at the Cabana Lounge, the computer blows up.

▲DAVID MORGAN,

Escambia County Sheriff FROZEN BULLETS: Cool and deadly, when you offer guests to “The Tower” water you will get their attention if you serve drinks with bullet-shaped ice.

You will ice them quick and dare them to break the ice.

Okay, enough puns. The ice tray itself is shaped like a magazine from an AK-47 and is fully food-safe and so simple to use, even a deputy can use it.

JOHN JERRALDS, Pensacola City Council LEROY BOYD WEATHERVANE: This handcrafted weathervane is especially made for those wishing to carry on the legacy of the civil rights leader,

Leroy Boyd. Jerralds will happily know which way the wind is blowing each morning as he leaves the house.

▲DELUNA FEST

ROLLING STONE MAGA ZINE SUBSCRIPTION: To help them pick a few current bands for next year’s concert lineup.

DEREK COSSON, ProgressivePensacola.com founder IRISH POLITICIANS’ CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Bring your stogie, Jack Daniel’s and a case of Tab and you’ll fit right in…until Mr. Reeves finds out you’re not part of the wait staff.

2005 JOHN FOGG Pensacola mayor: Triumph the Insult Comic Dog doll. Forget about coming up with snappy comebacks for those long city council meetings. Sit Triumph next to the microphone and pull the string. Hear such favorites as "Seriously, I like you but then again, I eat my own poop," and "No, no this is great. I haven't had this much fun since the doctor chopped my nuts off." People might actually sit through an entire meeting.

DON GAETZ Okaloosa County School Superintendent and District 4 Florida Senate candidate: Superman cape. Behind those Clark Kent glasses beats the heart of a champion. He turned around the Okaloosa public school system. Now, watch and see what he does in Tallahassee.

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

9

BENTINA TERRY,

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Gulf Power executive A G I F T C E R T I FI C AT E FO R N E I M A N M A R C U S I N B U C K H E A D FO R W H E N YO U V I S I T SU SA N S TO RY.

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Pensacola City Council-elect ELMO’S SESAME STREET “BUILD A HAPPY STREET” GAME SET: Brian can spend Christmas morning practicing for District 6! This durable plastic kit will allow Brian, with the help of local contractors, like Big Bird and Ernie, to build a happy district, free of unsightly trash, dangerous traffic hazards and bizarre and antiquated zoning. Set comes complete with a talking Oscar the Grouch who will argue with Brian the whole time that he likes his garbage.

GENE VALENTINO,

Pensacola in Film & Music

This documentary on DVD, narrated by Pensacola radio legend Gordon Towne, highlights the movies, TV shows and music that have depicted our community over the last 90 years.

Escambia County Commissioner ROGER CLEMENS: Because Gene has absolutely nobody, at least nobody with a good throwing arm and vast experience with indictments, to be on his team for the 2011 Mullet Toss.

JANE BIRDWELL, Public relations & marketing executive S E E G E N E VA LE N T I N O ’S G I F T. Maybe he will share at the 2011 Mullet Toss.

Escambia County Commissioner LOUISVILLE SLUGGER: Sometimes it takes a big stick to get BP, federal officials and Tallahassee to listen. You can remain soft-spoken, but don’t hesitate to take a few swings.

▲B E V E R LY Z I M M E R N ,

Gulf Breeze mayor CHOC- U - L ATOR: It looks like chocolate, it smells like chocolate, but hang on—it's actually a calculator—and no slouch as a calculator either. It’s fully functional, complete with an authentic-looking chocolate wrapper. You can tease your sweet tooth while working on the 2011-12 budget.

Community leader TEETER TOT TER: Use this simple playground toy to measure how equally city services are distributed west and east of Ninth Avenue.

Take a trip down memory lane.

The CD features music inspired by Pensacola, performed by the singers/songwriters who created the tunes.

Escambia County Superintendent of Schools “MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE” BOX SET: The title character of the series, Malcolm, was a genius, and because of this, is placed in a class for gifted students, known as the “Krelboynes.” His intelligence, as well as feelings of not fitting in, and his ego are the primary causes of most problems he faces throughout the series. No one liked this Malcolm either.

▼ MAREN DEWEESE,

$16.99 The Longest Siege of the American Revolution: Pensacola

For the history buff on your list, this book by Wesley Odom details an important regional military action from the Revolutionary War era.

Pensacola City Councilwoman RUBBER BAND SHOOTER: This little gadget fires elastic bands with surprising accuracy and range. Now far be it from us to insinuate that you mete out rubber band firestorms to overly loquacious council members or city staffers, but just so it's abundantly clear: if they don't get shut up after five minutes, it's rubber band war. And you've got the guns to back up the mandate.

▲ MARK O’BRIEN,

News Journal columnist THINK GUM: This brain-boosting chewing gum contains a combination of herbal extracts including ginkgo, rosemary and peppermint that are believed to increase mental performance and stimulation. Think Gum is a thoughtful little gift for anyone about to take an exam or driving test, write a newspaper column or for someone who simply doesn't always pick the right side of an issue.

RANDY OLIVER, Available at these locations:

J.W. Renfroe Pecan Company

2400 W. Fairfield Drive • 432-2083

Go Fish Clothing & Jewelry Co. Portofino Boardwalk • 934-5251

Pensacola Hardware

20 E. Gregory Street • 438-3186

www.pensacolasaenger.com/friends

10 | INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

KIM KIMBROUGH, Downtown Improvement Board Executive Director: Jenga. In this game, you take a wooden block from the tower and place it “very gently” on top. Hold your breath and wait to see if the tower falls. It's sort of like presenting any proposal to expand the DIB to the Pensacola City Council.

2007 JIM PAUL, Escambia County School District Superintendent: "Saved By The Bell" DVD. Wouldn't it be great to have schools that only have to worry about whether Screech will get a date to homecoming? Or stopping Zack from playing subliminal messages over the school's public address system? But you cannot pretend you're Slater.

PETER PAULDING, Gulf Breeze Police Chief: Life-size Lego Batman. Gulf Breeze has tried everything to stem traffic problems, such as placing empty patrol cars on U.S. Highway 98, letting citizens drive around in old police cars and putting video cameras at traffic lights.

It may be time to call in the Dark Knight. This Caped Crusader can guard street corners. The statue is 6-foot-6 and is made of Lego bricks, with a yellow utility belt and heavy cape fabric.

It only cost $27,000.

MALCOLM THOMAS, Pensacola in Music

2006 JEFF MILLER, U.S. Congressman: "Napoleon Dynamite" DVD. Joe Roberts may not have scared you this time around, but there is a "Pedro for Congress"-type candidate out there. And, he has skills. We all know voters dig candidates with skills.

KEN PERKINS, Escambia County Fire Chief: X-Men comics. You can learn a lot from Professor Charles Xavier as he tries to keep the peace between the mutants and the humans.

Remember this Xavier quote, "Mankind isn't evil, just uninformed."

LUMON MAY,

$15

Past Naughty or Nice Gifts

Escambia County Administrator SHOVEL: You still haven’t found where all the “bodies” are buried.

SARAH PALIN, GOP icon ASS -WHOOPIN’ REDNECK BBQ SAUCE: The perfect condiment for Rudolph, Blitzen or Donner or whichever of Santa’s reindeer one of her young-uns manages to shoot this Christmas.

KEVIN DOYLE, Pensacola News Journal Publisher: Laser. Any more cuts on Romana Street will need to be precise or you could hit the bone. All Gannett publishers have had to perform bariatric surgery this year. Less is more in the world of the country's largest newspaper chain.

2008 JAMES OWENS, Public Defender-elect: “The Invisible Man.” Read this novella by H.G. Wells and you may learn how your predecessor, Jack Behr, stayed below the radar for 32 years.

DIANE MACK, Pensacola City Council-elect: Hillary Nutcracker. Wave it around and the boys at City Hall will listen.

SAM HALL, Pensacola City Council: Balance Beam. You walk on an edge and somehow balance McGuire's Irish Politician's Club, Save Our City, Movement of Change and the Pensacola City Council. You may be the best at it since Huey P. Long.

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

11

RUSTY WELLS,

P.C. WU,

Pensacola City Attorney “ VIDEO PROFES SOR ” DVD: Computer training discs covering basic laptop, Blackberry and Facebook applications—so he can quit bugging his grandson. And even if he can’t become a “computerliterate person,” he can at least operate the “delete” function.

Pensacola City Councilman W WM W D M AG I C 8 BA L L: Next year, P.C. will be flying solo at Pensacola City Council meetings—no Mike Wiggins, maybe no Al Coby. We want him to have a “What Would Mike Wiggins Do” Magic 8 Ball to help him with his positions with handy answers like “Let staff review,” “Let’s hire a consultant,” “Let’s table this” and “Maybe.”

LARRY B. JOHNSON, JR.,

▲ MARCO RUBIO,

U.S. Senator-elect “TEEN WOLF” DVD: Has anyone told Rubio that he looks like the bad guy in “Teen Wolf” (Mick McAllister)?

Pensacola City Councilman “OFFICIAL TIGER BEAT 2011 ASHTON HAY WARD CALEN DAR ” (Gannet t Press, $19.95): 2011 is almost here and we wouldn’t want our Larry to miss a single day of Ashton Hayward’s first year in office.

Comes with a colorful set of Ashton Silly Bandz.

RICK SCOTT,

JIM HIZER,

Florida Gov.-elect CALL CENTER The world’s largest call center—one that can employ 700,000 people.

Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce CEO FL AK JACKET: The honeymoon may end soon and you don’t want to leave home without one.

QUINT STUDER,

JIM REEVES,

Studer Group CEO “BOUNCE BACK REBUILDING SHAMPOO”: This shampoo keeps that luster, bounce and shine no matter what nastiness is hurled at his head in 2011.

▼ MARTY DONOVAN & JACK NOBLES, Leaders of the Tick Tock Gang BACK WARDS CLOCK: The Bobbsey twins of political intrigue need this clock that really does go back to the future. It looks like a classic-style clock, but it is arranged back to front, making telling the time at a glance much trickier than it has any right to be. A musthave for the next petition drive. info@inweekly.net

Past Naughty or Nice Gifts 2009 MIKE WIGGINS, Pensacola mayor: WABAC Machine. Mr. Peabody and Sherman used the WABAC (pronounced "wayback") machine on "The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show" to transport back in time to right the wrongs of the past and help Sherman with his school reports. You might want to set the dial for October 2009 and rethink your opposition to the new city charter.

JUDY BENSE, University of West Florida President: New Car Air Freshener. You've held the UWF presidency for over 18 months and the honeymoon is nearing an end as teachers want pay raises, the tuition climbs and your budget shrinks. We suggest using this can of air freshener in your office as much as possible to rekindle those early days when everything was so new.

CHARLIE FAIRCHILD, No Boss Mayor Leader: Black & White TV. It will remind you of a simpler time—when the Pensacola phonebook was only 12 pages, when there were only AM radio stations and when white bread was good for you.

CMPA board member, attorney TAB: Single-handedly, Jim has kept the Tab brand alive in Northwest Florida. The man deserves a lifetime supply of his favorite beverage.

Give the Gift of Great Tastes Re-create the true taste of Pensacola in your own kitchen with the Fiesta Seafood Cookbook from ESP Natural Gas. This award-winning hardcover cookbook is packed with more than 200 recipes from Pensacola’s top chefs.

Christmas Hours: Open Fri 24th until 2 p.m.’ish Closed Sat 25 and Sun 26th

Open New Years Eve with free party favors and midnight toast Open New Years Day at normal 11a.m.

19.95

$

Normal Hours: Mon-Tues 11a.m. - 9 p.m.

Wed-Sat 11a.m.-10pm \ Sun 2 p.m.-8p.m.

(plus shipping and handling)

997 S. Palafox \ 850-432-5226 jacosbayfrontbarandgrille.com facebook is jacosbayfrontbarandgrille 12 | INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

Order online at espnaturalgas.com or by phone at 474-5300.

Celebrate the Season

family sports complex

There’s something for everyone on 88.1 FM—Jazz, Classical, Adult Alternative, Spoken Word, Blues, World Music, even Holiday—find times at wuwf.org.

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

13

2010 Procrastinator's Gift Guide

BLACK FRIDAY HAS COME AND GONE, a n d a l t h o u g h p r o a c t i ve I N r e a d e r s h a ve a l r e a d y m a d e a d e n t i n t h e i r h o l i d a y s h o p p i n g c h e c k l i s t s , o t h e r s- t h e I N s ta f f i n c l u d e d w i l l i n e v i ta b l y w a i t u n t i l t h e l a s t m i n u te to w ra p t h e i r s u p. H o we ve r, l a s t- m i n u te g i f t s d o n o t h a ve to e q u a l t h o u g h t l e s s o r c h e a p. D o n ’ t s p e n d y o u r Ch r i s t m a s Eve t r y i n g to f i n d p e r s o n a l i z e d g i f t s i n a d r u g s to r e . Wi t h t h e h e l p o f l o ca l b u s i n e s se s , I N h a s p u t to g e t h e r so m e g r e a t g i f t i d e a s t h a t w i l l w o r k f o r a ny b u d g e t .

Adorn

▼ A d o r n t h e p e o p l e c l o se s t to y o u w i t h t h i n g s

t h e y ’ l l l o ve f o r y e a r s to co m e — w h e t h e r i t ’s w i t h u n i q u e j e we l r y, a co m f y f l e e ce o r r u g g e d b o o t s .

Ke en Winthrop Bo ot ($14 0) A w a te r p r o o f, r u g g e d a n d g r e a t- l o o k i n g b o o t f o r t ra ve l , o u td o o r o r e ve r y d a y.

Ava i l a b l e a t I n t ra co a s ta l O u t f i t te r s

14 K G old H and wire Wrapp e d E arrings ($26 0) M u l t i-fa ce te d C Z by Pa t r i z i a B r o w n e Co l l e ct i o n s . Ava i l a b l e a t A r t Pra h a G a l e r i e

Happy Shopping!

And remember to keep your holiday spending local.

Fancy Gemstone Stack Rings by Stephanie Albertson (22K Gold starting at $900 or Sterling Silver starting at $175) Rubies, Diamonds, Sapp h i r e , Ci t r i n e , Ch r y s o p ra se , Ky n i te a n d m o r e . Ava i l a b l e a t S u s a n Ca m p b e l l J e we l r y

E x press Your Love Simon G R ing ($2 ,0 9 0) T h i s t r i-to n e r i n g h a s b e e n c r e a te d f r o m t h e f i n e s t Wh i te , R o se a n d Ye l l o w G o l d (18 K ) a n d Wh i te D i a m o n d s .

Ava i l a b l e a t E l e b a s h J e we l r y Co m p a ny

Charms by SAM (St ar ting at $25) Yo u a r e a n i n d i v i d u a l .

Yo u r c h a r m s s h o u l d b e to o. Le t te r s , n a m e s , d a te s , s y m b o l s a n d s i g n s , i n s i l ve r o r g o l d w i t h d i am o n d s a n d a h o s t o f co l o r f u l g e m c h a r m s . Ava i l a b l e a t S us a n Ca m p b e l l J e we l r y

Pandora Charm Brace let ($4 0 and up) B u i l d t h e p e r f e c t b ra ce l e t to r e f l e c t h e r p e r so n a l style from an authorized r e ta i l e r o f g e n u i n e Pa n d o ra b ra ce l e t s , b e a d s a n d charms.

Ava i l a b l e a t E l e b a s h J e we l r y Co m p a ny

HOLIDAY EATS

▼Don’t want to hassle with your own holi-

day feasts, or do you think you’ll be itching to get out of the house for a holiday cocktail or two? Luckily, area restaurants will have your holiday eats covered. Whether you’re looking for gift cards for holiday gifts or a great place to celebrate the holidays or bring out-of-town guests, check out the following sampling of Pensacola’s finest. From lowkey to upscale, these restaurants have you covered for your holiday indulgences.

Pat agonia Women’s Re -To ol Snap -T Fle e ce ($119) S u p e r- c u te , s t y l i s h f l e e ce perfect for Pe n s a co l a w i n te r s .

Ava i l a b l e a t I n t ra co a s ta l O u t f i t te r s

600 SOUTH

THE FISH HOUSE/THE DECK BAR

600 S. Palafox, 432-5254, 600southpalafox.com Located in the heart of downtown Pensacola, 600 South offers delectable tapas, an extensive selection of wines that wow, a full bar, an inviting atmosphere, and a newly renovated outside bar and courtyard. Check out their Sunday Brunch menu, have an afterwork cocktail in the courtyard decorated with beautiful holiday décor, or check out Chef Nick Farkas’ new tapas menu.

600 S. Barracks St., 470-0003, goodgrits.com The Fish House offers upscale dockside dining overlooking Pensacola Bay and Seville Harbor. The award-winning restaurant features an inventive menu of fresh, daily seafood selections, house-smoked steaks, sushi, a handpicked wine list with over 300 wines, and the world-famous Grits a Ya Ya. The Fish House also offers a full bar, latenight menu and brunch on Sundays, sure to please even the Scrooge on your list. On New

14 | INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

Evil Eye Charms Se t With C Z 's (Colle c tion s t ar ting at $4 0) Pr o te c t t h e m w i t h a n Ev i l Ey e Ch a r m , a n a n c i e n t a p o t r o p a i c— to w a rd against the evil gaze.

Ava i l a b l e a t S u s a n Ca m p b e l l J e we l r y

Year’s Eve, The Fish House will offer a special dinner with a menu created by Chef Billy Ballou that features four courses, each paired with a specially-selected wine. Cost is $100 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Seatings are at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. For reservations, please call Melissa Martin at 433-9450.

FIVE SISTERS BLUES CAFÉ 421 W. Belmont St., 912-4856, fivesistersbluescafe.com Check out one of Pensacola’s newest dining additions this holiday season. In addition to regular holiday dining, Five Sisters

will be hosting a special New Year’s Eve event. They will be open as usual from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., after which they will begin a specially prepared Southern & Cajun Buffet accompanied by a live band. A second buffet will be put out after a midnight champagne toast, and live music by Jeff Glickman & The Panhandle All Stars will begin. Five Sisters is accepting reservations through Tuesday, Dec. 28. Advanced tickets are $60 per person and $100 per couple, and $75 at the door as seating is available. All parties are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

Indulge c i g a r s f o r e ve r y ta s te .

2010 Procrastinator's Gift Guide ▼ I n d u l g e t h e p a l a te w i t h w i n e s a n d

Cus tomiz able W ine of the Month M emb er ship – A Year- Round G if t Tw o w i n e s d e l i ve r e d monthly for three, six or 12 m o n t h s . Fr e e d e l i ve r y i n E sca m b i a a n d S a n ta R o s a co u n t i e s .

Ava i l a b l e a t A ra g o n Wi n e Market

Entertain

Cigar S amp ler s (Starting at under $20) G i ve t h e m a n a s so r t m e n t of premium cigars, perfect for b o t h t h e o cca s i o n a l c i g a r smoker and the a f i c i o n a d o.

Ava i l a b l e a t Co rd o va Ci g a r s

▼ M a k e t h e m l a u g h , s m i l e - a n d m a y b e e ve n c r y.

L amp e B erger Fragrance L amp es (St ar ting at $4 0) T h e se h i g h - q u a l i t y l a m p s purify the air while a d d i n g f ra g ra n ce to a ny h o m e o r o f f i ce .

Ava i l a b l e a t Co rd o va Ci g a r s

Pamper

▼ Pa m p e r y o u r f r i e n d s a n d l o ve d o n e s w i t h r e l a xa t i o n , s t r e s s r e l i e f a n d se r e n i t y.

DV D - Pens acola in Film & Music ($25) Fo r a ny o n e w h o l o ve s Pe n s a co l a…Ta k e a t r i p d o w n m e m o r y lane with the movies, TV shows a n d m u s i c t h a t we r e f i l m e d i n o r i n s p i r e d by Pe n s a co l a . Pr o ce e d s s u p p o r t Fr i e n d s o f t h e S a e n g e r.

Ava i l a b l e a t Pe n s a co l a H a rd w a r e , R e n f r o e Pe ca n s a n d G o Fi s h

“Americ an Revolution: Pens acola” ($16.9 9) Fo r t h e h i s to r y b u f f o n y o u r l i s t… t h i s b o o k d e ta i l s t h e s i e g e o f Pe n s a co l a d u r i n g t h e A m e r i ca n R e vo l u t i o n by l o ca l h i s to r i a n We s l e y O d o m . Pr o ce e d s s u p p o r t Fr i e n d s o f t h e S a e n g e r. Ava i l a b l e a t Pe n s a co l a H a r d w a r e , R e n f r o e Pe ca n s a n d G o Fi s h .

Inspire

▼ I n s p i r e c r e a t i v i t y i n t h e k i tc h e n a n d a t h o m e t h i s h o l i d a y se a so n (w i t h a l i t t l e h e l p f r o m t h e p r o s).

Fies t a Seafo o d Co ok b o ok ($19.95) T h i s h a r d co ve r co o k b o o k i s p a c k e d w i t h 20 0+ r e c i p e s f r o m Pe n s a co l a c h e f s .

Ava i l a b l e a t e s p n a t u ra l g a s . co m /co o k b o o k /co o k b o o kform and at participating r e ta i l e r s

H oliday Spa Packages (St ar ting at $125) Co m b i n e a va r i e t y o f d e ca d e n t s p a se r v i ce s f o r t h e u l t i m a te s p a d a y f o r y o u r f r i e n d s , co wo r k e r s a n d l o ve d o n e s .

Ava i l a b l e a t St i l l Wa te r s D a y & M e d i ca l S p a

Spa G if t Cer tif icates Co n ve n i e n t p u rc h a se a n d d e l i ve r y o p t i o n s a va i l a b l e o n l i n e a t s t i l l w a te r s m e d s p a . co m o r by ca l l i n g 432- 6772.

Ava i l a b l e a t St i l l Wa te r s D a y & M e d i ca l S p a

Ke eps ake Shadow Box Le t Fra m i n g by D e s i g n h e l p y o u c r e a te a lasting gift using your keepsakes.

Ava i l a b l e a t Fra m i n g by Design

Per sonalize d G if t Cer tif icates Fo r t h e p e r so n w h o h a s e ve r y t h i n g , g i ve t h e gift of art or keepsake memories.

Ava i l a b l e a t Fra m i n g by Design

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

15

HOLIDAY EATS GENO’S PIZZA & ITALIAN RESTAURANT 9276 N. Davis Highway, 477-2365 Take a break from the kitchen and let the Geno’s family prepare a holiday meal for you. Geno’s is proof that nice surprises come in little packages. This family-owned and operated restaurant opened in 1973 as a pizza parlor serving UWF students and the military personnel stationed at Ellyson Field.

With its mom-and-pop atmosphere, friendly service and all your homey Italian favorites, this hidden gem near the UWF campus is well worth the trip for those of us in the South end of the county.

THE GLOBAL GRILL 27 S. Palafox Place, 469-9966, dineglobalgrill.com Want to impress this holiday season?

With an excellent bar and one of the most distinctive menus in town, Global Grill is the drinks, tapas, dinner or dessert destination for anyone who enjoys an upscale but lowkey dining experience. Global’s wait staff and ambiance are top notch, and they also offer one of the most extensive wine lists in the area. Every meal must be finished off with the gooey-centered Spanish chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream or the crème brulee. Check out their new and improved (if that’s possible) menu with friends, family, coworkers and out-of-town guests.

2 0 1 0 P r o c r a s t i n a t o r ’s G i f t G u i d e

THE GRAND MARLIN

HORIZEN

400 Pensacola Beach Blvd., 6779238, thegrandmarlin.com Begin a new holiday tradition at The Grand Marlin. Overlooking beautiful Santa Rosa Sound on Pensacola Beach, The Grand Marlin is the perfect location to celebrate your festive holidays. They complement the season with gift cards and their sumptuous, specially priced, three-course dinners on Christmas and New Year’s eves.

Offering private dining for 20 to 300, including privacy for up to 100 in their Grand Banquet Room, The Grand Marlin also offers a fresh-daily, chef-driven menu in their comfortable dining room or on The North Drop, their waterfront bar. Celebrate the season; make The Grand Marlin your newest holiday tradition.

3103 E. Strong St., 432-7899, horizensushi.net IN Best of the Coast favorite Horizen is offering several holiday specials, all great reasons to get out of the house and indulge even more over the holidays. *December Special: 50 percent off Sushi Tiger Roll and Fiesta Roll; Buy one hot sake and get one free *Holiday Special: Two Dine for $50 (includes soup, appetizer, sushi and dessert) Enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

HOPJACKS PIZZA KITCHEN & TAPROOM 10 Palafox Place, 497-6073, hopjacks.com Need a break from green-bean casseroles, yams and cranberry sauce? Hopjacks offers a fully stocked bar with an unbelievable beer selection. The pizza is just as noteworthy because of its top-quality ingredients and wide variety of toppings you won’t find at other pizza joints, such as real steak filets.

And like any self respecting pizza restaurant and bar, they cater to the late-night munchies crowd until 2:30 a.m. The hearty Belgian fries with roasted garlic herb dip are a must.

JACKSON’S STEAKHOUSE 400 S. Palafox St., 469-9898, jacksons.goodgrits.com For decadent dining, fabulous martinis and an extensive wine list, all in a pristine, cosmopolitan atmosphere, Jackson’s is the place to dine for lunch and dinner. The eclectic menu offers innovative dishes with southern charm, as well as some of the best steaks in the region. On New Year’s Eve, Jackson’s will be offering two special seatings at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. and will feature a fixed-price, threecourse menu, bottomless champagne and live entertainment. The cost per person is $125.

They will also be offering general dinner reservations in the Governor’s Room with service from the fall/winter dinner menu all evening long. Call 469-9898 to reserve your table.

JACOS’S BAYFRONT BAR & GRILLE 997 S. Palafox St., 432-5226,

9-11 Palafox Place, 469-1984, newyorknicks.net Nick’s has the requisite paraphernalia covering the walls, every sports package in the free world, more than 40 TVs, nightly drink specials, happy hour, and a great selection of made-from-scratch-food that makes you forget that you’re eating in a sports bar. Nick’s caters to the business lunch crowd in need of a wrap and a Wimbledon update, the hockey fan hankering for a meatball sub, and the March Madness devotee craving wings. Sports don’t take holidays, so neither does Nick’s.

PORTABELLO MARKET 400 S. Jefferson St., 439-6545, por tabellomarket.com Portobello is tucked away inside the cozy atrium of the Pensacola Cultural Center and

DISCOUNT FIRST RUN

CINETAINMENT

NOW SHOWING

Regular Admission Prices: $4.50 matinees $6.50 after 6pm

$4.50 for seniors, military & students all the time

476-4545

•

SEVILLE QUARTER

NEW YORK NICK’S

MOVIES • CINETAINMENT FOOD & SPIRITS

DINNER & A MOVIE ONLY $11

caters to the downtown lunch crowd from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an array of unique entrees. Choose from delicious soups, salads, wraps, sandwiches, as well as pasta and seafood entrees prepared by award-winning chef Erika Thomas. An extensive fresh fruit and salad bar is also available. Catering is available for your holiday parties.

jacosbayfrontbarandgrille.com One of downtown’s newest dining additions, Jaco’s is a superb lunch, dinner and happy hour destination. Chef Tricia Horton prepares a diverse assortment of salads, small plates, flatbreads and pastas. IN staff favorites include the Bella Mushroom Stack, the Tender Bleu flatbread and fried Snickers. The sunset alone is reason enough to check it out. Jaco’s will be open Christmas Eve until 2 p.m. and will be closed Christmas Day and Sunday, Dec. 26. They will be open New Year’s Eve, with free party favors and midnight toast, and will be open regular hours on New Year’s Day beginning at 11 a.m.

TRON: LEGACY 2D (PG) (12:00) (2:35) 5:05, 7:30, 9:55 YOGI BEAR 2D (PG) (12:45) (2:45) 4:45, 6:45, 8:45 TANGLED 2D (PG) (1:00) (3:00) 5:00, 7:00, 9:00 CHRONICLES OF NARNIA (STAR CLASS): VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER (PG) (12:05) (2:20) 4:50, 7:15, 9:30

SILVERSCREENTHEATRE.COM

130 E. Government St., 435-0543, sevillequar ter.com Seville Quarter isn’t just a place to shake your stuff. It also offers dining in a New Orleans-style atmosphere with historic features and decor. There is plenty of American fare to enjoy, including appetizers, soups, salads, seafood, sandwiches, wraps, fried chicken and seafood baskets, pizza, desserts and more. Customer favorites include the popular Apple Annie’s burger and Palace Oyster Bar’s oysters on the half shell.

WILL CALL SPORTS GRILL 22 S. Palafox St., 912-8644, willcallspor ts.com Check out Will Call for lunch and dinner with a variety of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers, steaks and seafood specialties. Whether you’re on your lunch break, out for dinner, or checking out the game, Will Call’s got the fare for you. Not in a hurry? Grab a cocktail from the Tavern Bar and relax on the spacious balcony overlooking historic Palafox Street.

SALE Frames

20-75% off New Value Lens Package Pricing See store for details and certain restrictions do apply.

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www.Terrezzaoptical.com 16 | INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

17

A SALUTE TO DIFFERENCE MAKERS The Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary project has been chosen as a finalist for a $50,000 Pepsi Refresh Grant.

The project includes installing 3 near-shore snorkeling reef off of Navarre Beach; one in the Gulf of Mexico and 2 in Santa Rosa Sound. These reefs would created economic growth through tourism by providing visitors with a safe, easy-to-access beach-recreation site; sustain or improve water quality through oyster growth; provide habitat for many marine animals; and provide an education resource for area schools, universities, and organizations.

Grants are awarded to the ten projects with the most votes in their category. You can vote for the cause everyday. Vote on-line at refresheverything.com/beachreefs or text 104451 to Pepsi (73774) today and everyday to make the Gulf Coast Snorkelicious. For more information about the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary project please visit

www.navarrebeachmarinesanctuary.com

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arts + entertainment ART, FILM, MUSIC, STAGE, BOOKS AND OTHER SIGNS OF CIVILIZATION...

A HOLIDAY CLASSIC

BALLET PENSACOLA PRE SENTS “ THE NUTCRACKER”

BY JENNIE MCKEON

From left: Ryan Lutu, Kristen Springer, Jieying Zhu / photo by Meg Baisden t’s a Christmas tradition that will never get old. Whether you’re going to see the Sugar Plum Fairy or Clara and the Nutcracker Prince share their first dance, you must take time to enjoy “The Nutcracker.”

Ballet Pensacola will perform “The Nutcracker” at the Saenger Theatre Friday, Dec. 17 and Saturday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 19 at 1:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary from $17 to $30.

For the past several weeks, the company dancers have been rehearsing 40 hours a week. Even Ballet Pensacola students have put in about 20 hours a week of practice.

“It’s a labor-intensive production,” said artistic director and choreographer Robert Steinert.

Steinert, along with over 100 performers and ballet mistress and choreographer Christine Duhon have all been working hard to produce a ballet that is timeless and yet surprising.

I

“It’s not just a ballet,” Steinert said.

“We pull out all the stops. There’s a good bit of slapstick comedy. It’s not just great dancing, but great theatre.”

For those of you who attend “The Nut-

Dylan Duke, who will play the Nutcracker Prince, is one of the new faces. The 19-year-old just moved to Pensacola from Baltimore to join Ballet Pensacola. Although this is only his second ballet since moving to the area four months ago, Duke says he already feels at home.

“Everyone has been very welcoming,” Duke said. “It’s very easy to like everyone. I enjoy their company.”

Duke, who has been dancing for eight years, has had his fair share of “Nutcracker” performances, but says each play is different from the other.

“Generally, every ballet company does ‘The Nutcracker,’” Duke said. “I’ve played the Nutcracker Prince a number of times

“IT’S NOT JUST A BALLET. WE PULL OUT ALL THE STOPS. THERE’S A GOOD BIT OF SLAPSTICK COMEDY. IT’S NOT JUST GREAT DANCING, BUT GREAT THEATRE.” —ARTISTIC DIRECTOR AND CHOREOGRAPHER ROBERT STEINERT. cracker” every year, you will notice a few changes to the ballet. As part of a five-year plan to update sets, each year a different set will get a make-over. Last year it was Act One, and this year, Act Two will make its debut. New costumes, new choreography and new faces will surprise even the most die-hard “Nutcracker” fans.

and each time the choreography is totally different.”

Even as “The Nutcracker” evolves, there are still some things better left alone.

For example: the coveted role of Clara performed by 21-year-old Kristen Springer.

This is Springer’s third season as Clara.

You would think she could perform the ballet in her sleep, but Springer says the part is different each year.

“It’s never really the same because I’ve always had a different partner,” Springer said. “Every time you get one stage it’s different. That’s what we try to do—make sure that every show isn’t the exact same show.”

So even if you’ve seen “The Nutcracker” before, you’ll be missing out if you don’t make it to one or all three performances. It’s not just a beautiful ballet, but a theatrical production the whole family can enjoy.

“What I love about ‘The Nutcracker’ is that this is one ballet that brings families together,” Steinert said.

“I want people to walk away with a better understanding of the story and feel like they saw real characters and not just actors,” Springer said. “Hopefully, families come to the show and start a holiday tradition and see how it changes each year.” info@inweekly.net

BALLET PENSACOLA PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER”

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17 and Saturday, Dec. 18, and 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19 WHERE: Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place COST: $17, $23 and $30 DETAILS: balletpensacola.com, or 432-9546

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

19

hot times of Clara and her dream of the Nutcracker Prince. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. 5953882 or pensacolasaenger.com.

SIP AND SING CAROLING TOUR 5:30 p.m.

Meet at Flounder’s at 5:30 p.m. The tour will depart about 6 p.m. Carolers will makes stops and entertain patrons at beach pubs and walk to the next stop. Santa hats encouraged. Tour ends at the Sandshaker Lounge. Flounder’s Chowder House, 800 Quietwater Beach Blvd. 932-2003 or flounderschowderhouse.com. ◀‘MADELINE’S CHRISTMAS’ A MUSICAL 7:30 p.m. Tickets $14-$20 for adults and children’s tickets are half price. A $1 handling fee is assessed for every ticket printed. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. 434-0257, ext. 103 or pensacolalittletheatre.com.

PENSACOLA ICE FLYERS V. MISSISSIPPI SURGE 7 p.m. The Hanger, Pensacola Civic Center, 201 E. Gregory St. 432-0800 or pensacolaiceflyers.com

THURSDAY 12.16 ‘LECTURE: GRAPHIC DESIGN IN ART’ 6-7 p.m. Speaker will be Joseph Herring, UWF Assistant Professor of Visual Arts.

Free but RSVP requested. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. 432-6247 or pensacolamuseumofart.org.

ZOO LIGHTS 5-9 p.m. Through Dec. 23. Also Dec. 26-31. Enjoy the beauty of the zoo at night and thousands of sparkling holiday lights. General admission $7. Members $5. Train rides $2.50. Gulf Breeze Zoo, 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway. 932-2229 or gulfbreezezoo.org.

4TH ANNUAL UPC SING-ALONG 6:30 p.m. The Oar House is your holiday caroling headquarters, featuring emcees Ray and Valerie Russenberger, and $3 coffee drinks all night. The Oar House, 1000 S. Pace Blvd. 549-4444 or the-oar-house.com.

STORYCORPS MOBILE BOOTH Through Dec. 22. The national oral history project, StoryCorps, is returning to Pensacola to collect oil spill stories for preservation at the Library of Congress. For reservations call (800) 850-4406 or link to the StoryCorps reservation system from wuwf.org.

ART CLASS AT PAINTING WITH A TWIST 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your favorite bottle of wine or beverage, and paint a picture step by step that you will take home. 16 years and older.

Theme: Moonlit Cherry Blossoms. Painting with a Twist, 4771 Bayou Blvd., Suite C-11. $35. 471-1450 or paintingwithatwist. com/pensacola.

MUSIC: HOLLY SHELTON 7 p.m. Free. Five Sisters’ Blues Café, 421 W. Belmont St. 912-4856 or fivesistersbluescafe.com.

MUSIC: JOEY B. WILSON, JUSTIN OTTO, SPECIAL SAUCE 7 p.m. $3. The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. 434-9060 or handlebarpensacola.com.

MUSIC: IVAN NEVILLE’S DUMPSTAPHUNK 8 p.m. $10-$15.

Vinyl Music Hall, 2 Palafox. vinylmusichall.com.

FRIDAY 12.17 4TH ANNUAL GRAND CHAMPAGNE AND WINE TASTING AT DK 6-8 p.m. Sample over 30 champagnes and sparkling wines.

Local Chef Keith Hoffert will be preparing heavy appetizers in the Culinary Theater to complement the champagne and wine selections. Also enjoy DK’s biggest wine sale of the year. $35 per person. Distinctive Kitchens, 29 S. Palafox. 438-4688 or dk4u.com.

DOWNTOWN TOASTMASTERS MEETING AND SOCIAL 6:508:55 a.m. Discover an encouraging and cheerful way to meet your personal and professional goals in communication and leadership. Become a competent communicator, overcome your fear of public speaking, and develop skills in speaking, listening and thinking. The Stifel Nicolaus Building, 25 W. Cedar St., Ste 100. 595-5823.

THE NUTCRAKER PRESENTED BY BALLET PENSACOLA 7:30 p.m. Audiences will be enthralled during this annual classic as the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky accompanies the story

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| INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

Barracks St. 470-0003 or fishhouse.goodgrits.com.

MUSIC: MIGHT HIGH COUP, UNNATURAL SOUNDZ, INNO 10 p.m. $10. Bedlam, 15 E. Intendencia St. 434-8779.

SATURDAY 12.18 COMMUNITY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kids will enjoy a morning of carnival games, presents and a visit from Santa. Christmas dinners will be served to families after the toy give-a-way. Fricker Community Center, 900 N. F St. 436-5192.

AQUARIUM FOR PENSACOLA AWARENESS FESTIVAL 9 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be live music, dance performances, food, door prizes and raffles from $5 gifts to a $1,000 prize, bounce house and art activities for the kids as well as other entertainment. Santa arrives at 10 a.m. All proceeds go to Aquarium for Pensacola Inc., a not-for-profit organization. Bartram Park, 211 W. Main St. 393-6856 or goaquariumpensacola.org.

SAME TIME, SAME PLACE

AFTER GAME SKATING 10-11 p.m. Pensacola Civic Center, 201 E. Gregory St. 432-0800 or pensacolafigureskating.com.

ART CLASS AT PAINTING WITH A TWIST 7-9 p.m. Bring your favorite bottle of wine or beverage, and paint a picture step by step that you will take home. 16 years and older. Theme: Reflections. Painting with a Twist, 4771 Bayou Blvd., Suite C-11. $35. 471-1450 or paintingwithatwist.com/pensacola.

GRAND CHAMPAGNE TASTING AT DISTINCTIVE KITCHENS 4:30-7 p.m. Free. Distinctive Kitchens, 29 S. Palafox Place.

438-4688 or dk4u.com.

MUSIC: REDDOG 9:30 p.m. Free. Five Sisters’ Blues Café, 421 W. Belmont St. 912-4856 or fivesistersbluescafe.com.

MUSIC: ZOSO- THE ULTIMATE LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE 8 p.m. $10-$13. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com.

MUSIC: MR. FAHRENHEIT, ALOUD, HELLO CRESCENDO, THE NATIVE TONGUE 7 p.m. $6-$8. The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. 434-9060 or handlebarpensacola.com.

MUSIC: MIKE Z 7 p.m. Hub Stacey’s Downtown, 312 E. Government St. 469-1001 or hubstaceys.com.

MUSIC: KNEE DEEP 7 p.m. Hub Stacey’s at the Point, 5851 Galvez Road. 497-0071 or hubstaceys.com.

MUSIC: THE SHIZ 9 p.m. The Deck at the Fish House, 600 S.

▼WINE TASTINGS THURSDAY: Aragon Wine Market 5-7 p.m. 27 S. Ninth Ave., aragonwinemarket.com FRIDAY: City Grocery 5:15-7:30 p.m. weekly. 2050 N. 12th Ave. 469-8100.

Distinctive Kitchens 4:30-7 p.m. Includes beer tastings. 29 S. Palafox Place. 438-4688 or dk4u.com.

Seville Quarter 5-7 p.m. Gift Shoppe at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. 434-6211 or sevillequarter.com.

hot times ANNUAL PENSACOLA LADIES PAMPER EXPO 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

The ultimate ladies day out includes massages, facials, foot spas, entertainment, makeup, shopping, non-alcoholic champagne and chocolate, yoga, door prizes, networking, dancing and more. $25. Gull Point Community Center, 7000 Spanish Trail. 941-4321 or mypensacolaevents.com.

THE NUTCRAKER PRESENTED BY BALLET PENSACOLA 7:30 p.m. Audiences will be enthralled during this annual classic as the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky accompanies the story of Clara and her dream of the Nutcracker Prince. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. 595-3882 or pensacolasaenger.com.

ANNUAL WINTER GUMBO COOK-OFF 3 p.m. Bamboo Willie’s, 400 Quietwater Beach Road. 916-9888 or bamboowillies. com.

ADULT COLORING CONTEST 6 p.m. Let island spirit bring out your inner artist. Sandshaker supplies the crayons. You supply the imagination. Free. Prizes. Sandshaker Lounge, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. 932-2211 or sandshakerlounge.com.

RUDOLPH’S RED NOSE RAMBLE 2 p.m. Ramble, walk or amble to Sabine Sandbar for Island Eggnog, Hooters and then to Bamboo Willie’s for the Santa Look Alike and Sexy Elf contests. Wrap-up party at 6 p.m. Sandshaker Lounge, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. 932-2211 or sandshakerlounge.com.

PORT CITY MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Through April 16, 2011.

Check out local produce, arts and crafts. Southeast corner of Palafox and Main streets. 500 S. Palafox. 380-4237 or portcitymarket.com.

(850) 912-4856 | 421 W. Belmont St. www.FIVESISTERSBLUESCAFE.com

MUSIC: THE SHIZ 9 p.m. The Deck at the Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. 470-0003 or fishhouse.goodgrits.com.

SUNDAY 12.19 THE NUTCRAKER PRESENTED BY BALLET PENSACOLA 1:30 p.m. Audiences will be enthralled during this annual classic as the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky accompanies the story of Clara and her dream of the Nutcracker Prince. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. 595-3882 or pensacolasaenger.com.

‘MADELINE’S CHRISTMAS’ A MUSICAL 2:30 p.m. Tickets $14-$20 for adults, and children’s tickets are half price. A $1 handling fee is assessed for every ticket printed. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. 434-0257, ext. 103 or pensacolalittletheatre.com.

PUBLIC ICE SKATING 2-3 p.m., 3:30-4:30 p.m., 5-6 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Pensacola Civic Center, 201 E. Gregory St. 4320800 or pensacolafigureskating.com.

MONDAY 12.20 PLT’S HOLIDAY REVIEW 7:30 p.m. Traditional hymns and classic carols will be sung by musical theatre performers during this special production in the Courtroom at the Pensacola Cultural Center. $10 general admission or $17 café seating.

Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. 434-0257, ext.

103 or pensacolalittlethreatre.com.

PUBLIC ICE SKATING 2-3 p.m., 3:30-4:30 p.m., 5-6 p.m., 6:307:30 p.m. Pensacola Civic Center, 201 E. Gregory St. 432-0800 or pensacolafigureskating.com.

‘MADELINE’S CHRISTMAS’ A MUSICAL 7:30 p.m. Tickets $14-$20 for adults and children’s tickets are half price. A $1 handling fee is assessed for every ticket printed. Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. 434-0257, ext. 103 or pensacolalittletheatre.com.

MUSIC: ‘BLUE MONDAY’ WITH JAZZ PENSACOLA 6-9 p.m.

Five Sisters Blues Café, 421 W. Belmont St. 912-4856 or jazzpensacola.com.

PUBLIC ICE SKATING 1:30-2:30 p.m., 3-4 p.m., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Pensacola Civic Center, 201 E. Gregory St. 432-0800 or pensacolafigureskating.com.

‘MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT’ 7:30 p.m. Winner of the 2005 Tony Award® for Best Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot is the musical comedy based on classic film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Spamalot tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. 595-3882 or pensacolasaenger.com.

BAYVIEW PARK SPRING FLEA MARKET 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bayview Park, corner of East Blount Street and 20th Avenue.

436-5190 or aquina@ci.pensacola.fl.us.

EVE BASH ’S R A E Y W NE Ring in the New Year with The Five Sisters!

Call now to reserve your party’s special occasion.

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$60 per person / $100 per couple

Your evening includes all of the following plus party favors: Early Buffet from 8:00 PM Live Music featuring Jeff Glickman & The Panhandle All Stars 2 Free Drinks Per Person Midnight Champagne Toast Late Night Buffet from 12:00 Midnight Limited available seating - book today!

Above pricing is for advanced tickets only. $75 at the door. Please call for details!

TUESDAY 12.21

ART CLASS AT PAINTING WITH A TWIST 6-9 p.m. Bring your favorite bottle of wine or beverage, and paint a picture step by step that you will take home. 16 years and older. Theme: Midnight Mass. Painting with a Twist, 4771 Bayou Blvd., Suite C-11. $45. 471-1450 or paintingwithatwist.com/pensacola.

PLT’S HOLIDAY REVIEW 7:30 p.m. Traditional hymns and classic carols will be sung by musical theatre performers during this special production in the Courtroom at the Pensacola Cultural Center. $10 general admission or $17 café seating.

Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. 434-0257, ext.

103 or pensacolalittlethreatre.com.

MUSIC: ARIC WILDE 7 p.m. The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. 434-9060 or handlebarpensacola.com.

MUSIC: KARAOKE WITH MARK ESKEW 7 p.m. Hub Stacey’s at the Point, 5851 Galvez Road. 497-0071 or hubstaceys.com.

PUBLIC ICE SKATING 2-3 p.m., 3:30-4:30 p.m. Pensacola Civic Center, 201 E. Gregory St. 432-0800 or pensacolafigureskating.com.

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WEDNESDAY 12.22 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Enjoy a morning filled with speakers, lots of talent and plenty of food in celebration of the Christmas holiday. Cobb Community Center, 601 E. Mallory St. 436-5192.

PLT’S HOLIDAY REVIEW 7:30 p.m. Traditional hymns and classic carols will be sung by musical theatre performers during this special production in the Courtroom at the Pensacola Cultural Center. $10 general admission or $17 café seating.

Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. 434-0257, ext. 103 or pensacolalittlethreatre.com.

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

21

music

FEEL THE FUNK

IVAN NEVILLE’S DUMPSTAPHUNK COMES TO VINYL MUSIC HALL

BY KATE PETERSON

I

van Neville is the son of the famed New Orleans musician Aaron Neville.

In 2003, Ivan, along with his cousin Ian Neville, formed Dumpstaphunk.

Since that time, they have become a driving force in the modern funk scene.

In 2010 they were voted “New Orleans’ Best Funk Band” by New Orleans’ alt-weekly publication The Gambit, and in 2009 they were given the “Best Funk Award” by Offbeat magazine.

Dumpstaphunk has performed at some of the premier music festivals around the country including Bonnaroo, Voodoo Fest, Jazz Fest, 10,000 Lakes and High Sierra.

Most recently, they performed at the Bear Creek Festival in Live Oak, Fla., which featured some of today’s best funk bands.

Pensacola is their first show since.

IN was lucky enough to catch up with Ivan, at home for the holidays in New Orleans, to talk about his music and their upcoming show in Pensacola.

IN: Where did the name Dumpstaphunk come from?

Neville: I had written a song some time ago, before the band was formed, that had that word in it. When it came to naming the band I thought, “What is the nastiest, funkiest thing I know?” A dumpster.

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The name just stuck.

Dumpsters are funky— Dumpstaphunk.

comes from the same place. We listened to each other, and to other stuff. It came from where we want to go.

IN: Describe your musical style.

Neville: Funk is lively, very energetic with lots of syncopation and spontaneity; it gets your body moving. It is about something significant to us. It gets you sweaty.

IN: Before Dumpstaphunk was formed, you released four solo albums; what did you learn from that process?

Neville: I learned about making records, about how you want to sound. I learned how to be on a record; learned how to perform live. The same thing, just different approaches. Try to flow as naturally as you can.

IN: There are so many musical influences floating around New Orleans; what made you choose funk?

Neville: It chose us. We listen to so many different genres of music and are influenced by all of them. It really chose me. Being around Art Neville, founding member of The Meters, was a big influence as well.

IN: You recently performed at the Bear Creek music festival; what was that experience like?

Neville: It is such a fun festival—so cool.

Many of our friends are there and we love each other. Lots of listening and jamming.

The people are raging fans and music lovers. We are fans too. Lettuce and George Porter were great. We sit in with one another. I am enjoying my time off right now.

IN: The band has recorded two albums, the first in 2007, “Listen Hear,” and the newly released “Everybody Want Sum.” How did the music progress from the first to the second album?

Neville: We became more focused. More of the music got passed around. In the beginning, it was me doing the majority of the singing. The latest recording represents more of a true collaboration. The first one was that, but, a whole lot more on the second. We have evolved more as a band. It all

IN: You have been touring quite a bit; what is your schedule like?

Neville: It is pretty hectic most of the time. We get to slow down during the holidays, which is nice. Cool out and watch ESPN. We are looking forward to a European tour someday.

IN: What was it like growing up in the Neville household?

Neville: It was fun—normal I guess. Lots of music was going on, and watching my dad and uncles in the studio, seeing it up close and personal being recorded.

IN: Did you play music in school?

Neville: I was in a stage band in school. I have never been formally trained; I learned by ear.

IN: Tell us about your involvement with the Tipitina’s Foundation?

Neville: I do all I can. I play when I am available and when the opportunity presents itself. I don’t do more than anyone else. There are many more who have given so much to the area and its charities.

IN: You have worked with some incredible musicians including Don Henley, Bonnie Raitt, Robbie Robertson and Delbert McClinton. What was it like to be in Keith Richards’ solo project band the X-Pensive Winos?

Neville: Very cool. The band was great.

Prior to that I had been in the Neville Brothers’ band and played in Bonnie Raitt’s

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band. Being in the X-Pensive Winos was the coolest thing I have ever done. Keith wanted to do stuff. He had a group of guys he liked playing with. We would be in the studio and we would make a bunch of music. We made two records. Being in a band with Keith Richards, being on the tour bus—I mean, it was an absolute fun experience. It was the highlight of my musical career. Keith Richards just recently released a compilation record of the Winos.

They were all amazing musicians—a cool collaboration. It was playing music with the same people, but with a different approach on the same songs. Keith would say, “When you are working well with the crowd, every band is the baddest band in the world” on any given night.

IN: You are on the cover of Offbeat caroling?

Neville: Yeah, we were supposed to pretend to be caroling, but the whole time I was cracking everyone up with jokes. We could not stop laughing.

IN: What can our readers expect from your show?

Neville: Expect a sick show. It is our first show since Bear Creek. We are going to throw it down. info@inweekly.net

IVAN NEVILLE’S DUMPSTAPHUNK

WHEN: 9 p.m. (doors open at 8 p.m.) Thursday, Dec. 16 WHERE: Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox Place COST: $10-$15, 18 and up DETAILS: vinylmusichall.com/calendar

Annual Pensacola Ladies Pamper Expo Free Massage, Facials, Foot Spas, Entertainment, Makeup, Shopping, Non-Alcoholic Champagne & Chocolate, Yoga, Door Prizes, Networking & more.

December 18 *10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Gull Point Community Center 7000 Spanish Trail (corner of Creighton Road & Spanish Trail)

$25 Per Person Tickets Available at the Door & Online Proceeds benefit American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 941-4321 or

mypensacolaevents.com

culture

CHAMPAGNE WISHES

DISTINCTIVE KITCHENS HOSTS GRAND CHAMPAGNE TASTING

BY JENNIE MCKEON

E

ven though it’s the holiday season, you don’t need a reason to enjoy some fine bubbly. At Distinctive Kitchens’ fourth annual Grand Champagne Tasting you can taste some of the finest sparkling wines Friday, Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

“We collaborate with local distributors to bring great wines at great values,” said business partner, Curtis Flower. “We want people to experience unique tastes.”

Tickets are $39.99 per person, and with your ticket you can taste all the varieties of champagnes and hors d’oeuvres, and you’ll also receive a complimentary Riedel champagne glass. Also, customers at the tasting

will receive special discounts on featured sparkling wines—not a bad Christmas gift.

Even if you’re not a connoisseur of the finer things in life, you’re still encouraged to attend the Grand Champagne Tasting

“I HOPE PEOPLE COME OUT AND GATHER A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF CHAMPAGNES. IT’S DRILLED IN OUR HEADS THAT CHAMPAGNE IS A CELEBRATORY BEVERAGE, BUT THERE’S NOTHING WRONG WITH ENJOYING IT ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON BY THE POOL.” —CURTIS FLOWER and broaden your wine horizon.

“Everybody can come to this event,” Flower said. “The tasting gives you the opportunity to learn something new. Champagne is not just a beverage you celebrate with. You can enjoy it every day. Champagne complements more foods than any other wine.”

Chef Keith Hoffert will prepare hors d’oeuvres to complement the champagnes.

The event is limited to 50 people, so sign up quickly for this cultured experience.

“I hope people come out and gather a better understanding of champagnes,” Flower said. “It’s drilled in our heads that champagne is a celebratory beverage, but there’s nothing wrong with enjoying it on a Saturday afternoon by the pool.” info@inweekly.net

GRAND CHAMPAGNE TASTING

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17 WHERE: Distinctive Kitchens, 29 S. Palafox Place COST: $39.99 per person DETAILS: dk4u.com, or 438-4688

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| INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET

news of the weird AMONG THE OPPRESSIVE PATRIARCHAL CUSTOMS that remain in force in Saudi

Arabia is a requirement that females obtain their father’s (or guardian’s) permission before marrying -- even women who are profoundly independent, such as the 42-year-old surgeon (licensed to practice in the UK and Canada as well as Saudi Arabia) who was the subject of an Associated Press report in November. One activist, estimating that nearly 800,000 Saudi women are in the same position, complained that a Saudi woman “can’t even buy a phone without the guardian’s permission.” The surgeon took her father to court recently, but the judge had not rendered a decision by press time.

THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT Alabama is the only remaining state to ban the sale of sex toys, but nevertheless the Huntsville shop Pleasures recently expanded by moving to a former bank building in order to use three drive-thru windows to sell dildos. (Since state law prohibits the sale unless used for “bona fide medical, scientific, educational, legislative, judicial, or law enforcement purposes,” customers must provide a brief written description of their medical or other “legitimate” condition in order to make the purchase.)

CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE Researchers at the University of Queensland revealed in November that parrot fish, which reside on Australia’s reefs and need protection from blood-sucking, lice-like parasites, shelter themselves at bedtime with blankets of “snot.” Typically, the fish’s mouth-slobber, once it starts dribbling out, takes about an hour to ooze into place.

MEDICAL MARVELS: (1) Six-year-old Alexis McCarter, of Pelzer, S.C., underwent surgery in December to remove the safety pin that she had stuck up her nose as a baby and which was lodged in her sinus cavity (having sprung open only after it was inside her, causing headaches, nosebleeds and ear infections). (2) Sharon Wilson of Doncaster, England, finally got a worthwhile answer for her nearly 10-year odyssey through a range of doctors’ complicated misdiagnoses. She had complained of many, many days when she vomited more than 100 times, at “almost exactly” 10-minute intervals. The previous diagnosis was a tumor in her pituitary gland, but another specialist nailed it: “Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome.”

WHAT’S WEIRD IS THAT IT’S LEGAL: The pharmaceutical company Genentech makes both Lucentis (a $2,000 injection for relieving age-related macular degeneration) and Avastin (an anti-cancer drug that many retina specialists prescribe for age-related macular degeneration because it is just as effective yet costs about $50).

Using Avastin instead of Lucentis saves Medicare hundreds of millions of dollars

BY CHUCK SHEPPARD a year, reported The New York Times in November, and, obviously, every dollar’s savings is a dollar less income for Genentech. In response in October, the company commenced a lucrative rebate program for physicians, worth tens of thousands of dollars, that apparently passes as legal according to Medicare guidelines, but said one Ohio specialist, “There’s no way to look at that without calling it bribery.”

NEWS OF THE OVERPRIVILEGED (1) Cell phones and GPS devices have led national-park visitors to do “stupid” things, confident that they will be saved from themselves, a Grand Teton National Park spokesperson told The New York Times in August -- such as the lost, cold hiker who called rangers to ask for hot chocolate or the visitors f lummoxed by cold weather who wanted a personal escort back to their campsite. In August, a party of hikers in Illinois called for (and received) three separate rescues in 24 hours. (2) The Milwaukee teachers’ union filed an equal-rights lawsuit in August challenging health-insurance cutbacks by the budgetchallenged Milwaukee Public Schools. The union was denouncing the elimination of Viagra as discrimination against men.

THE WEIRDO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY In November, at a burglary scene near Seneca, S.C., deputies found Noah Smith, 31, naked and apparently drugged, perhaps on hallucinogenic mushrooms, and with a stringlike object protruding from his buttocks.

Smith was X-rayed, revealing (according to the deputies’ report, which made its way to the Internet) that the object in his rectum was a “mouse.” However, several days later, the sheriff ’s office clarified that the object was a “computer mouse.” Smith told emergency room personnel that he had no memory of the incident.

ARMED AND CLUMSY (ALL-NEW!) People who accidentally shot themselves recently: Daniel McDaniels, 31, Sarasota, Fla., “trying to ward off a skunk” (October). Sanford Rothman, 63, Boulder, Colo., while sleepwalking (October). Reserve police officer Kenneth Shannon, 68, Gary, Ind., in the hand while loading his gun (and the bullet went on to hit his partner) (October). Sheriff ’s Deputy Miguel Rojas, Crestview, Fla., in the leg while firearms training (July).

Darrell Elam, 52, Peshastin, Wash., in the buttocks as he holstered his gun (August).

A 48-year-old woman, Clover, S.C., in the jaw while trying to kill a rat (September).

A 25-year-old man, Juneau, Alaska, in the head after jokingly telling friends that there is “one way” to find out whether a gun is loaded or not (October 2009).

Send your Weird News to Chuck Shepherd, P.O. Box 18737, Tampa, Fla., 33679 or weirdnews@earthlink.net, or go to www.NewsoftheWeird.com.

FROM UNIVERSAL PRESS SYNDICATE CHUCK SHEPHERD’S NEWS OF THE WEIRD

by Chuck Shepherd COPYRIGHT 2010 CHUCK SHEPHERD

Leadership Pensacola: Producing Commit ted Leaders

LEADERSHIP PENSACOLA CLASS HEARS FROM COMMUNITY LEADERS ON EDUCATION, HEALTH CARE

BY HOPE ALLEN

Leadership Pensacola is all about learning and growing by example. Each month, the LeaP Class gets privileged access to community leaders who share their knowledge and experience first-hand. For the December LeaP day program, the class turned their focus to educational and health care issues presented by the superintendent of schools, college and university presidents and executives from four local hospitals.

The program was scheduled by current class members Cat Outzen, Greg Clay and Sean Quigley.

“We wanted an agenda that would inform and engage the class about educational and health care issues facing the community in hopes of compelling them to act,” said Quigley. “During the day, the class showed their interest by the thoughtful and probing questions they asked of the panelists. Our ultimate success will be measured by how they take what they’ve learned today and apply it to their daily lives.”

For the morning session, the group focused on educational issues, hearing from Superintendent of the Escambia School District Malcolm Thomas, University of West Florida President Judy Bense and Pensacola State College President Ed Meadows and others in the profession.

Enrollment, graduation rates and FCAT improvement were a few topics discussed by Superintendent Thomas. In an effort to combat low graduation rates and improve retention, the school district has become a pioneer in career academies within many of our high schools. These career academies aim to engage students in core subject areas by focusing class projects and assignments on useful career objectives. More so than the general improvement of our public school system, the LeaP class of 2011 was particularly excited about the opportunity to serve as a mentor in the school system. Investing in the children of our community is a priority of the leaders of Pensacola.

In the afternoon, the focus turned to health care. A CEO roundtable, moderated by Rick Outzen,

included Carol Schmidt of Sacred Heart Health System, Al Stubblefield of Baptist Healthcare, Dennis Taylor of West Florida Hospital and Capt. Richard Knittig of Navy Hospital Pensacola. The class also heard presentations about mental health, workplace ergonomics, the future of school health and training.

Two members of the roundtable, Stubblefield and Taylor, were able to discuss the health care system of Pensacola from a historical perspective while area newcomers, Knittig and Schmidt, were able to contrast our level of health care to cities in which they have previously served. Repeatedly, the issue of Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement diminishing became a point of discussion. All area hospitals are struggling with how to balance quality care and financially smart business practices. One of the major points of interest for the LeaP class was all four hospitals working together to further our health care system. For example, when one hospital leads in quality care for a specific division, the other hospitals should not try to compete in that market, but rather focus on their area of specialty. This will provide our community with a diverse and mature health care system.

Learning from area experts certainly gave the LeaP class members perspective on current issues in health care and education and that knowledge will make them more well-rounded leaders.

LEAP CLASS 2011

Liz Adams, David Allen, Lauren Anzaldo, Ken Ashley, Ross Atherton, Buffi Barrineau Bailey, Ryan Barnett, Carissa Bergosh, Heidi Blair, Ellis W.Bullock IV, Michael Capps, Ashley Coggin, Sonya Davis, Stefanie Emery Hoffman, Daniel Ewert, Cory M. Fogarty, Charmere N. Gatson, Andre C. Hall, Brooke Hicks, Matthew C. Hoffman, Shawn B. Hutcherson, Jennifer Knisbell, Rebekah Ann Lee, Russell F. Lentz, Sonia L. Lott, Susan Lovelady, John Lund, Doug Lurton, Melissa Martin, Trip Maygarden, Leah McCreary, Ruth McKi-non, Nasya McSwain, Kara R. Melendez, Scott Moore, Kevin D. Nelson, Todd O’Brien, Karen T. Pope, Amie Remington, Kismet J. Rideau, Renee J. Rieder, Ryan Ross, Hans Sholley, Sandy Sims, Mark Taylor, Kris Thoma, Greg Thomas, Scot Thomas, Hong Tran, Beth Varhalla, Frank White and Audrey S. Young.

April 14, 2011 Leadership & Ethics

UPCOMING EVENTS Jan. 13, 2011 Present Economics The LeaP Class will develop an understanding of our present economic base and explore the fundamentals of our region’s economy and how fiscal policy (and the leaders that shape it) influence our lives. Chairs: Debi Panyko, Ashley Spikes, Jerry Feagles

Feb. 10, 2011 Future Economics Members of the class will explore different economic development strategies and future trends/directions. They will learn how our community is affected by ongoing local, state or nationwide economic development efforts.

Chairs: Cheryl Kirby, Patrick Rooney, Paula Roe Turner, David Sansing

March 10, 2011 Quality of Life The class will examine and explore the positive and negative aspects of our community’s quality of life. They will discuss the meaning of quality of life for the various socio-economic groups in Northwest Florida while exploring the importance of cultural organizations and activities in the life of the community. Chairs: Leslie Keck, Jackie Barclay, Angela Neumann, Jerold Hall

March 30-31, 2011 Tallahassee Trip The Tallahassee trip will focus on how the legislative process impacts how we live, work and play in Northwest Florida and how the lobbying process differs in session and out of session. The class will have the opportunity to speak with their legislators and staffs regarding the issues that are important to them.

During Leadership and Ethics day, the class will discuss the interrelationships among leaders in the community.

They will identify the risks, rewards and challenges of leadership and the bond between leadership and ethics.

Chairs: Marina Holley, Ted Gorder, Jeff Nall

May 13, 2011 Closing Retreat The class will reflect on the LeaP curriculum and explore lessons learned during the past nine months. They will explore new individual and team challenges at the high ropes course at Adventures Unlimited and are encouraged to apply the LeaP experience to a future course of action.

Chairs: Melissa Chapman, Sparkie Folkers, Brett Berg

The History of Leadership Pensacola A task force was established by the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce on Dec. 18, 1981 to establish Leadership Escambia and Pensacola. The original members of the steering committee were Dick Appleyard, Earle Bowden, Rick Dye, Isabella Grimes, Ed Hartsell, Donald Jones and Ginger Bass. The Junior League of Pensacola was an original source of funding for the program. The program began in the fall of 1982 and graduated its first class in 1983.

For more information on Leadership Pensacola or to inquire about applying for the class of 2012, call Hope Allen at (850) 438-4081 or click www.pensacolachamber.com/LeaP

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

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What is your chief characteristic?

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THE UNIVERSAL CROSSWORD EDITED BY TIMOTHY E. PARKER SLIGHT ADJUSTMENTS by Kenneth Holt

ACROSS 1 North ­A tlantic food fish 5 Gowns’ companions 9 Latesummer bloom 14 Have a few too many 15 Varied mixture 16 Wild dog of Asia 17 Redundant partner of “done with” 18 “Arrivederci _ _ _” 19 Palindromic form of address 2 0 Pay attention 2 2 Saintly ­i mages (Var.) 2 3 Hang in there 24 Fill to the gills 2 6 Pulverize potatoes 2 9 Book after Job 33 Actor Jack and NBA-er Spud 37 Gross-weight deduction 3 9 Stunt plane maneuver 4 0 ___-trigger temper 41 DNA structure 42 Currency abroad 43 Back 40 unit 4 4 Australian gem 45 Plume provider 4 6 Slave 4 8 Indecent 5 0 Success for Rocky 52 Fabricate 5 7 Early Irish alphabet 6 0 Go on and on 6 3 First of six popes 6 4 Broadcast, as radio waves 6 5 Fish-eating eagle

What do you appreciate most about your friends?

In reference to my closest friends, I appreciate their genuineness (And yes, that’s a word!). No fakes, no phonies. In our circle of friendship, we keep it real with each other.

It’s not uncommon for me to send a text to my friends just thanking them for being the individuals they are. Also, when I see the bad in me or in my situations, they see the good and make it known through encouragement.

Who is your favorite heroine in fiction?

Celie in “The Color Purple.” From living a life filled with trials and tribulations, Celie’s endurance resulted in her finding true happiness and success.

What is the best thing you have ever won?

An award of appreciation from President Bush for my budget and technical writing work in the Executive Office of the President at the White House. I didn’t win it, per se, but I earned it – lots of long hours and hard work.

What did you mother always tell you?

“I do XYZ, only because I care” (XYZ is whatever action she took).

PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER

6 6 “Manhattan” director 67 Hyperbolic function 6 8 Spanish theater 6 9 Hagar the Horrible’s wife 70 Important time periods 71 Largo and West DOWN 1 Scarf made of fur 2 Hags’ assembly 3 Cause to topple over 4 Lost in Paris?

5 Eye part 6 Shower gel ingredient 7 Native American from Arizona 8 Flies like an eagle 9 Shows honesty, in a way 10 “Hurry up!”

11 List heading 12 Enthusiastic vigor 13 Deep sleep stages 21 Octopus’ abundance

2 5 Tippy-top 27 Baby-book first 2 8 Islamic equivalent of kosher 3 0 Facial expression of displeasure 31 Twist’s request 32 Canine of kiddie literature 33 Inquiry starter 3 4 Individually 35 Whirring sound 3 6 Expression of luck 3 8 Bug 41 Sacred 45 Dame Everage 47 Thin layer 49 Lateral measurements 51 Beyond zaftig 53 Type of tee 5 4 Inspiring fear 55 Mary ­P oppins was one 5 6 Shade providers 5 7 Brightly ­c olored fish 5 8 Sayers of football 59 Seed cover 61 Arab prince 6 2 Columbus craft

What is the worst idea you’ve ever had?

To “feel better,” and try to rush getting discharged from the hospital just to go home to rest in my own comfy bed, only to end up admitted again within a few days.

What is your favorite food?

Anything BBQ Which talent would you most like to have?

OK, so I’ve been blessed with the talent of playing the piano/keyboard, but there’s nothing like the sound of a Hammond B-3 organ. So, the talent I’d most like to have?

It would be the ability to rock a Hammond B-3 organ.

With mastery, I’d love to have that “just hop on and play” mentality where I could just sit there and have fun running some bass lines on the pedalboard.

What movie do you love to watch repeatedly?

Sex and the City What TV show is your guilty pleasure?

“Jeopardy!” (I’m such a nerd!)

What is the last book you read?

“Life Spices from Seasoned Sistahs: A Collection of Life Stories from Mature Women of Color” edited by Vicki Ward What is your theme song?

“I’m Still Holding On” by Luther Barnes & The Red Budd Gospel Choir. The title speaks for itself.

INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |

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INDEPENDENT NEWS | DECEMBER 16, 2010 | WWW.INWEEKLY.NET |