Lagniappe: May 11 - May 17, 2017 by Lagniappe

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WEEKLY

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LAGNIAPPE

MAY 11, 2017 - MAY 17, 2017 | www.lagniappemobile.com ASHLEY TRICE Co-publisher/Editor atrice@lagniappemobile.com

ROB HOLBERT Co-publisher/Managing Editor rholbert@lagniappemobile.com GABRIEL TYNES Assistant Managing Editor gabe@lagniappemobile.com DALE LIESCH Reporter dale@lagniappemobile.com JASON JOHNSON Reporter jason@lagniappemobile.com JANE NICHOLES Reporter jane@lagniappemobile.com

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BAY BRIEFS

Major League pitcher Jake Peavy files suit against his former agent after financial issues.

COMMENTARY

The horses and politicians are starting to run.

BUSINESS

Dr. Amanda Jones, principal of Mary B. Austin Elementary, was honored at the 14th annual Marbury Technology Awards.

CUISINE

KEVIN LEE Associate Editor/Arts Editor klee@lagniappemobile.com ANDY MACDONALD Cuisine Editor fatmansqueeze@comcast.net

STEPHEN CENTANNI Music Editor scentanni@lagniappemobile.com J. MARK BRYANT Sports Writer sports@lagniappemobile.com STEPHANIE POE Copy Editor copy@lagniappemobile.com DANIEL ANDERSON Chief Photographer dan@danandersonphoto.com LAURA RASMUSSEN Art Director www.laurarasmussen.com BROOKE O’DONNELL Advertising Sales Executive brooke@lagniappemobile.com BETH WILLIAMS Advertising Sales Executive bwilliams@lagniappemobile.com ALEEN MOMBERGER Advertising Sales Executive aleen@lagniappemobile.com MELISSA EDGE Editorial Assistant events@lagniappemobile.com

COVER

As plans for restoration projects continue to develop, a pilot program is exposing young adults to the environmental resources hidden in some of Mobile’s most urban communities in a search for the next generation of conservationists.

CONTRIBUTORS: Lee Hedgepeth, Ron Sivak, Jeff Poor, Asia Frey, Brian Holbert, Tom Ward, Ellen Huckabay, Carol Williams, Jo Anne McKnight, Sharman Egan ON THE COVER: CONSERVATION CORPS BY DANIEL ANDERSON POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Editorial, advertising and production offices are located at 1100B Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36604. Mailing address is P.O. Box 3003 Mobile, AL 36652. Phone: 251.450.4466 Fax 251.450.4498. Email: ashleytoland@lagniappemobile.com or rholbert@lagniappemobile.com LAGNIAPPE is printed at Walton Press. All letters sent to Lagniappe are considered to be intended for publication. Member: Association of Alternative Newsweeklies and Alternative Weeklies Network All rights reserved. Something Extra Publishing, Inc. Nothing may be reprinted, photocopied or in any way reproduced without the expressed permission of the publishers. Individuals may take one copy of the paper free of charge from area businesses, racks or boxes. After that, papers are $3 per issue. Removal of more than one copy from these points constitutes theft. Violators are subject to prosecution.

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MUSIC

Mobile band Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet prepares to release not just one, but two debut albums.

FILM

“Masterminds” isn’t just bad, it left our reviewer despairing man’s role in the universe.

ROSS PRITCHARD Distribution Manager delivery@lagniappemobile.com JACKIE CRUTHIRDS Office Manager jackie@lagniappemobile.com

As American brewers experiment with their own versions of traditional Belgian beer, witbier, or white beer, has become popular.

32 38 40 42 46 SPORTS

St. Paul’s student Robert Morgan was the overall top-scoring male in the National Archery in the Schools’ State Championship.

GARDEN

Becoming a master gardener is only a few months away.

STYLE FEATURE

Thirty-six accomplished young men will be presented to society at the 37th annual Le Beautillion Militaire.

STYLE

Find out how David J. Maloney was doing running the roulette wheel at St. Mary’s Casino Night. Boozie has the rundown on that and more.

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GOING POSTAL

Are we keeping Mobile beautiful? Editor: If you asked a room full of Mobilians if we are winning the war on litter, you probably wouldn’t see many hands in the air. In the past, the city has simply not devoted enough resources or attention to recycling, but that is all about to change. Our ultimate goal is to create a more robust recycling program while eliminating litter throughout our city. Nationally, more than 34 percent of municipal solid waste is diverted from landfills through recycling efforts. Mobile’s diversion rate is a dismal 6 percent. Mobile is woefully behind the curve, partially due to having only one recycling location, at 1451 Government St., a facility leased and staffed by the city. In order to move the needle, we studied municipal recycling operations in other cities. To increase the rate of recycling, we ultimately decided to expand our drop-off centers to locations throughout the city, so recycling would be more convenient to more citizens. We are also transitioning to a single-stream method to create a more accessible, less burdensome experience for citizens, because they will no longer be required to sort their recyclables. The city is joining five other community recycling programs to establish a regional recovery area that will feed into a large materials recycling facility. The current contracts awaiting City Council approval are to begin this progressive recycling program. The first contract is for hauling services to deliver the material and

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the second contract is with the materials recycling facility to accept and process the material. The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority Materials Recycling Facility in Cantonment, Florida, is a public utility that will accept single-stream recyclables, and has the capacity to efficiently and responsibly handle Mobile’s volume. The contract with Amwaste LLC, a materials management company, will place the right piece of collection equipment at several sites throughout the city as we haul the recycled product from those sites to the materials recycling facility. The financial case for expanding recycling to our citizens is strong. We expect to save at least $15 per compacted ton of product diverted from the landfill. The city currently pays $37.50 per ton in tipping and transfer fees to put material in our landfill, in addition to the expense of collection. Recyclables diverted from this waste stream will avoid those landfill tipping fees. Annual savings from closing the Government Street facility is expected to cover the annual cost of equipment rental and hauling. Both of these contracts reflect best practices we learned from other cities. When recycling is more convenient and less confusing, more people recycle, and people who recycle are less tolerant of litter. This is the next step in making Mobile a cleaner, greener community that cares deeply for its natural resources and watersheds. Mayor Sandy Stimpson Mobile

Keep it up Editor: Rob Holbert’s last column, titled “The Sound and the fury” (May 5), was one which I know the naturalist John James Audubon would have loved for its reference to the rebirth of bird life on our coast. It also reminded me so much of two great writers with Mobile and Creola roots. One, James William, wrote the beautiful poem “Creola” off of his 1986 work called “Floridays.” Another great writer, Celestine Sibley, lived in Creola as a child but then moved to midtown Mobile to attend Murphy High School. She later worked for the Press-Register before moving to Georgia and becoming a beloved journalist in Atlanta. Mr. Holbert, please keep up the good work. I think both Celestine and James William might agree with me, it was a great piece of writing! Charles Cort Spanish Fort

BAYBRIEF | COURTS

Strikeout JAKE PEAVY LAWSUIT DETAILS FORMER MANAGER’S ALLEGED FRAUD BY DALE LIESCH

ttorneys for the former manager of Mobile native and former San Francisco Giants pitcher Jake Peavy have asked for a nearly $15 million lawsuit against their client to be dismissed or transferred to a federal court in California. The suit was recently moved to U.S. District Court in Mobile from Mobile County Circuit Court, Jim Newman, an attorney for defendant Barry Axelrod, said. The move is “fairly common,” he said, when two parties live in different states. The defense team will seek to transfer the case to Axelrod’s home state of California in order to make it more convenient for the witnesses and the involved parties. The original lawsuit, which was filed in late February by attorneys for Peavy, claims Axelrod, acting as Peavy’s business manager at the time, did not properly monitor investments made in a startup by a wealth management consultant on Peavy’s behalf. The investments resulted in a $15 million loss, according to the suit, which claims breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract and fraudulent concealment. Axelrod and Peavy formed a relationship shortly after the pitcher graduated high school. Axelrod was Peavy’s player agent “from the beginning of his career” and helped him navigate his first Major League Baseball contracts, according to the suit. “The relationship grew over time such that Axelrod also became the Peavys’ manager of their business affairs, which included managing their finances, monitoring their investments and managing their personal affairs so that [Peavy] could focus on his baseball career,” the suit reads. “The Peavys paid Axelrod for his services and heavily relied on his management services and advice, especially as [Peavy’s] career took off and his [MLB] earnings increased.” Attorneys for Axelrod denied he became Peavy’s agent at the beginning of his career. Instead, according to court documents, they claim he became Peavy’s agent in 2003. Axelrod helped Peavy select Ash Narayan as a wealth and investment manager in 2004. In a meeting that year with Narayan and Axelrod, Peavy said it was his desire to save money for retirement, according to the suit. Later, Peavy set up a trust and had assistance from Narayan in setting up a brokerage account in the name of the trust. Statements from Charles Schwab were addressed to Axelrod’s California office, as were many of Peavy’s personal bills, according to the suit. While Axelrod’s attorneys agree the agent paid bills for the pitcher, including payments to investment advisers, they deny Axelrod made “investment decisions” or gave Peavy “investment advice.” Axelrod was charged with monitoring Narayan’s investment activity, according to the suit. “Axelrod had a key role in the execution of the plan to preserve Peavy’s income for retirement and served as the intermediary between Narayan and the Peavys,” the suit reads. “[Peavy] authorized Axelrod to to speak to Narayan on his behalf. [Peavy’s] paycheck was deposited into a Wells Fargo account over which Axelrod had

power of attorney to disburse funds.” Axelrod’s attorneys deny Axelrod was to be “monitoring investments or investment advisers” as part of his services to Peavy. In court documents, Axelrod’s attorneys also deny he was a point of contact for Narayan, or had access to all of Peavy’s financials. Peavy’s lawsuit claims he, Axelrod and Narayan would meet before and after each baseball season to discuss the pitcher’s finances. The suit describes it as a regular pattern of meetings. The investments in question began without Peavy’s knowledge in 2011, according to the suit. Narayan began transferring large amounts of money from Peavy’s trust as loans and investments into a startup venture called the Ticket Exchange, according to the suit. The suit alleges Axelrod, who would have received the brokerage statements, never communicated the investment to Peavy. Axelrod and his attorneys deny this, according to court records. Axelrod claims large wire transfers “were not out of character” for Peavy. He also denies he was supposed to monitor the brokerage statements, “other than to provide a summary of the ending value shown on the statements.” Axelrod agrees large transfer were made, but he did not communicate this to Peavy because “that was Narayan’s role,” according to court documents. Axelrod also claims to have no knowledge of whether the Peavys knew about the transfers. Axelrod also denies he concealed anything from the Peavys, or that he cost them millions of dollars, according to court documents. The first indication Peavy had of involvement in the startup was when he was in the process of purchasing real estate in downtown Mobile in December 2015, according to the suit. He became aware of the investment when he requested financial information for a loan application. Peavy’s suit claims Axelrod and Narayan tried to talk him out of purchasing the property in Mobile. The suit claims Axelrod reached out to Joan Dunlap, who was described in the suit as part of a group of individuals “assisting Peavy with his charitable foundation and investments in Mobile.” At the time, Dunlap was also the executive director of Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s Bloomberg grant-funded Innovation Team, which was charged with documenting and resolving blight in the city. The suit claims Axelrod shared his concerns with Dunlap and informed her the pitcher was “in financial ruin.” Peavy did not receive a similar call from Axelrod, according to the suit. Axelrod admits the conversation with Dunlap, according to court documents, but stated it was over concerns about Peavy’s charitable foundation. He admits he did not talk to Peavy about it, but denies he did not try to contact him. Dunlap resigned from the Innovation Team the same month the lawsuit was filed. Peavy, meanwhile, who has invested in Mobile-area real estate and whose foundation sponsors the annual TenSixtyFive music festival, among other events, has enjoyed career earnings of more than $125 million, according to sporttrac.com.

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BAYBRIEF | COURTS

Gone in 60 seconds FEDS SELLING LUXURY CARS FROM ‘PILL MILL’ CASE

BY JASON JOHNSON

ven after securing a landmark conviction in the case against John Patrick Couch and Xiulu Ruan, prosecutors are having to deal with rafts of paperwork just to manage the millions of dollars in assets seized from the former local pain doctors. Ever since their business, Physicians Pain Specialists of Alabama, was raided in 2015, some of the high-value assets the government seized from Ruan and Couch have drawn as much attention as the criminal charges against them and their co-conspirators. Notable was Ruan’s fleet of 17 luxury automobiles, which included Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Bentleys, an Aston Martin and more. However, United States District Court Judge Ginny Granade recently greenlighted the sale of those vehicles after acting U.S. Attorney Steve Butler filed a motion suggesting maintaining the high-end cars would be more trouble than it was worth. “The items in the [federal government’s] possession — the vehicles — are causing the U.S. to incur considerable storage costs and are depreciating,” Butler wrote. “Therefore, there is good cause for the interlocutory sale of the 17 vehicles.” More specifically, Butler was requesting to convert the vehicles into an equally valuable sum of cash. Though it’s impossible to say what the cars would sell for at a public auction, an assessment of their current Blue Book value shows they would be worth roughly $4 million. In federal court, all forfeitures are handled by the U.S. Marshals Service — a task that includes the management, upkeep and sale of any asset seized by a federal agency. Ed Eversman, a public information officer with the Marshals in the Southern District of Alabama, previously told Lagniappe that, generally, the burden of maintaining

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valuable items — luxury cars, boats, private planes — can be high. That’s because no one benefits if an item is damaged or sees a decrease in its value while in the Marshals’ possession. According to Eversman, the government will want to sell those items for as much as possible. A defendant could still get them returned following an acquittal or through a separate civil challenge, leaving the government on the hook for any damage or loss in value. “If we seized a $15,000 Honda Accord, we’ll still have to keep it in good condition, but if it’s a $500,000 Lamborghini, there’s conditions you have to hold that car in,” Eversman said. “It has to be in a covered, climatecontrolled facility, it has to be started every now and then, it has to be so far away from other vehicles — we have a whole list of criteria to where, depending on the value of a certain item, we have to take precautions to keep it in good working condition.” Eversman said items can be seized and placed in the Marshals’ care as soon as someone is charged with a crime, which means they’ve been tasked with maintaining Ruan’s 17 vehicles for the better part of the last two years. However, Eversman declined to discuss any case specifically. The location of forfeited items isn’t disclosed, but there are only a handful of authorized auction services used by the Marshals. In the Southern District of Alabama, the closest are Weil Wrecker Service Inc. in Birmingham and America’s Auto Auction of Pensacola. Lagniappe reached out to the manager of the Pensacola location, but did not receive a response by press time. Before the jury that convicted the doctors of 19 federal charges was dismissed, jurors were told they’d possibly have to decide which of the seized items the government

could legally retain, though Ruan and Couch ultimately waived their right to present that evidence to the jury. According to Eversman, a 60-day window exists for anyone who wants to file a claim to property seized through a federal criminal proceeding — a process that has complicated the ongoing forfeiture of Couch and Ruan’s assets due to the number of family members, business associates and banks claiming an interest. The federal rules of civil procedure permit even property “alleged to be forfeitable” to be sold prior to a final forfeiture order. So, even with the final ownership of those assets unclear, the liquidation of Ruan’s vehicles has firm legal footing. Plus, Butler’s motion claimed their sale could benefit Ruan as much as the U.S. “Conversion of these items to cash via interlocutory sale will preserve the value of the 17 vehicles for the benefit of the U.S. and defendant Ruan,” he wrote. “The dollar amount of property forfeited shall be applied against [his] forfeiture money judgment.” Couch also faces the forfeiture of a house in Daphne, two condos in Orange Beach, a 2013 Maserati, two Porsches and 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray — all of which the government requested to liquidate in a separate motion Granade has yet to rule on. A separate motion seeks to secure one of the seized vehicles — a 2008 Cadillac Escalade — for use by an agency involved in the investigation of Physicians Pain Specialists of Alabama, though Butler’s office didn’t respond to requests seeking to identify which agency that was. In all, the total assets Ruan and Couch could potentially forfeit are worth tens of millions, though exactly who will benefit from them is still unclear. Eversman said in general, the first to see money from forfeitures are the agencies handling a case, though most are just recouping costs. “One of the first things that happens is the reimbursement of any cost associated with the seizure, the upkeep of those items and the trial. All those expenses get paid first before any money gets dispersed, and that disbursement is based on percentages,” he added. “If the [Drug Enforcement Administration] makes a drug case on somebody and $10 million is seized, that doesn’t go straight into the DEA coffers, it goes back to the federal government as a whole.” Eversman said the same is true for local agencies that process civil forfeitures through the Department of Justice’s Equitable Sharing Program, which the Marshals also oversee. As Lagniappe reported last month, local agencies have processed millions of dollars through that program. No matter how they’re seized, all items sold through the Marshals can be reviewed at usmarshals.gov/assets, though it doesn’t appear any of the items taken from Ruan and Couch have been listed yet.

BAYBRIEF | FAIRHOPE

All good things

OFFICIALS RE-EVALUATE FREE HEALTH INSURANCE IN FAIRHOPE BY JANE NICHOLES

ith the rising cost of health insurance a national issue, city of Fairhope employees still get a rare benefit: Their health insurance premiums are free. It doesn’t matter if an employee is a single person needing coverage for one or has a family. Like nearly everyone else, Fairhope employees must meet annual deductibles and co-pays. But while most employers ask their employees to pay a percentage of the premium, which is typically deducted from their paychecks, Fairhope does not. With the cost of insurance continuing to rise, city officials are taking another look. The administration of Mayor Karin Wilson has estimated that by 2018, premiums for individual employees will have gone up 35 percent over four years, and family premiums will have gone up by 34 percent. This year’s estimated premiums are $581.62 per month for a single employee and $1,450.37 for family coverage, according to the numbers provided by Wilson during the budget process. Those premiums are up from $422.16 and $1,062.45, respectively, in 2015. Taking office in November, Wilson initially suggested health insurance as one area where city expenses could be reduced. But with so much concern nationally about the future of

health care and with the city budget passing only in the last couple of weeks, the city is now looking at different options to offer a choice of plans. All the plans the city has reviewed are from Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Wilson said. “We’re still looking at all the options,” she said. At least one of the plans would be offered at no charge, Wilson said. Another might be a premium benefit plan with some charge to employees but with more generous benefits. Ken Smith, executive director of the Alabama League of Municipalities, said he did not know if any other city or town in the state offers free coverage. “I don’t think there’s ever been data that’s been compiled,” he said. During budget debates, some council members expressed concern rising health insurance rates could affect city employee salary packages. The net effect could be to give an employee a $1,400 pay cut, said Councilman Kevin Boone. The council voted in a 2 percent cost-of-living raise with the new budget, Boone said. He generally doesn’t favor cutting back on health benefits right now because the city has essentially pledged to its employees that it won’t. “It’s part of their package,” he said. Boone said he would be willing to consider having new employees pay a portion of their own premium costs.

Why can’t we be friends PEACE BREAKS OUT AT FAIRHOPE COUNCIL MEETING BY JANE NICHOLES

ayor Karin Wilson and the Fairhope City Council on Monday night proved they can play nicely together. After months of increasingly contentious and divisive interaction that had citizens demanding the council and mayor figure out how to get along and work together, at least some of them agreed to try. On Saturday, Wilson invited City Council President Jack Burrell to lunch. Later, she had dinner with Councilman Jimmy Conyers and their respective spouses. While Conyers said they talked of everything but politics over dinner, Burrell said he and Wilson talked politics among a number of other subjects. Both councilmen thanked Wilson for the invitation. “We’ve got better things to do than have a lot of arguments,” Burrell said. A photo taken of the pair that appeared on Wilson’s Facebook page was not staged but simply taken by someone sitting near their table, he said. But while the change in tone made for a smoother, faster meeting Monday, it was not without controversy. The council approved $32,510.97 in payments to Walcott, Adams, Verneuille Architects for exterior repairs and maintenance on the Fairhope Public Library, although no paperwork could be found showing the work had been authorized. The work took place during the administration former of Mayor Tim Kant. The city received bills for the work, but current city staffers could not find evidence of a contract or any other form of agreement between Kant, the city and the firm.

The council voted to pay the bills, with Burrell saying however the authorization was handled, it seemed clear the work was actually performed. The 10-year-old library building has been plagued with problems, including a leaking roof. City Attorney Marion “Tut” Wynne announced the settlement of a lawsuit involving the city and Alabama Municipal Insurance Corp. over much more complex litigation concerning the Breland property. That case involves whether the city repeatedly and improperly prevented the property from being developed. When AMIC, as the city’s insurer, refused to pay the costs of defending the city in the Breland case, Fairhope sued. The Travelers now handles the city’s insurance. Wynne said the settlement calls for AMIC and Travelers to each pay $63,315 to Fairhope. The Breland case is ongoing. The council passed an ordinance governing when items can be reconsidered. For the last several weeks, Wilson has weekly resubmitted names of her two candidates for vacancies on the Airport Authority. The authority has recommended the reappointment of the two board members, but Wilson has insisted the decisions are hers. The new ordinance prohibits an item that has been defeated from being considered again for 60 days. The full council can bring an item back sooner with a unanimous vote. Discussion among Wilson and council members indicated they may be close to resolving the impasse by reappointing one of the current members and filling the second vacancy with one of Wilson’s nominees.

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BAYBRIEF | HISTORY

Back in time

ALABAMA MAY BE 200, BUT OLD MOBILE HAS ANOTHER 115 YEARS ON IT BY JANE NICHOLES

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also known as 27-Mile Bluff probably seemed like a good idea at the time to Pierre Le Moyne D’Iberville and JeanBaptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. Waselkov said smuggling was a popular occupation in the region, and French settlers wanted to be relatively close to the Spanish, who had moved into Pensacola. Fort Louis was high and seemingly safer than another fort in the area, Port Dauphin. But protecting Port Dauphin proved more difficult than settlers anticipated. Even the modern-day tourists tramping through the woods know enough about South Alabama flooding and mosquitos to be skeptical of Old Mobile being a good site for anything, no matter how pretty the trees and the river view. It’s also swampy, and the land behind the bluff is lower, inviting floodwater to rush in. Floodwater didn’t come in over the bluff, but behind it. “But if you build off of the highest ground, which you see right behind you is dropping off immediately, that does flood,” Waselkov said. “So there are swamps back there that back up.” “The priest in particular wrote these really bitter letters back to Quebec to his superiors, saying he had ankle-deep water in his house most of the year.” Waselkov said excavators today often have to wait for dry periods to dig at the sites. Not only that, but the entire region, not just the Old Mobile site, is a mosquito’s dream. Yellow fever was fought in hand-to hand combat. In 1710 an Englishman captured and burned Port Dauphin. The following year a flood hit Fort Louis so quickly everyone had to climb trees. Buildings were submerged for weeks. The decision was made to move to the present site of Mobile and to burn the fort and the houses. There is little evidence left of the actual fort, Waselkov

Photo | Lagniappe

s the state of Alabama kicks off its bicentennial celebration, up the road and back in the woods archaeology work quietly continues into a much older piece of Deep South history — the original site of Mobile. Students at the University of South Alabama and volunteers work in a clearing on squared-off dirt slab that was once a house. A larger one-time house site is nearby, covered in heavy black plastic to keep it clear and protected from weather. Anyone idealizing archaeology as a glamorous undertaking has watched too many Indiana Jones movies. The people working on the house are literally scraping away the hard-packed dirt with handheld tools, hoping to find scraps of whatever the earliest settlers brought with them from France in 1702 and left behind in 1711, when they headed downriver to a place that didn’t flood so easily. Once known as La Mobile and nominally protected by Fort Louis de La Louisiane, today the site on the western bank of the Mobile River is known as the Old Mobile historic site. It sits on property that also is home to a DuPont agricultural chemical plant. Regular access is restricted to Gregory Waselkov and his crew; Waselkov is director of the Center for Archaeological Studies. But occasionally a busload of visitors is allowed onto the property to tour the site. A recent tour group was arranged through Historic Blakeley State Park. The first stop is 27-Mile Bluff, the site of the fort. There Mobile and Alabama history are tied together at a monument commemorating the 200th anniversary of Old Mobile. A smaller marker just below it denotes the tricentennial celebration in 2002. Building the fort and a surrounding town at what was

BLAKELEY STATE PARK RECENTLY LED A TOUR OF THE OLD MOBILE SITE AT 27 MILE BLUFF. said. It was built shallowly of logs on thin topsoil. Since the site was rediscovered and excavations began in 1989, USA has worked on 10 different houses. The site has one advantage over other historic settlements, Waselkov said. In Mobile and New Orleans, “new” structures, some of which became historic in their own right, were built on top of the original settlement buildings, make it much more difficult to recover earlier artifacts. Waselkov said USA knows the locations of at least 55 houses spread over 80 acres. “Because the town moved, we had this amazingly ideal situation where it’s all still here, essentially.”

BAYBRIEF | MOBILE

Reduce, reuse, renegotiate CITY DELAYS RECYCLING DECISION TO ALLOW SWA REVIEW

BY DALE LIESCH

he city of Mobile and its appointed Solid Waste Authority (SWA) may have to navigate concerns related to a 24-year-old contract with a seemingly endless term before any changes or updates to a recycling program can be approved by the City Council. The issue involving two new contracts for the transportation and processing of recyclables is set to come up again on the council’s agenda, but there’s no clear indication whether a resolution will be reached. At issue is the contract SWA entered into with TransAmerica — now Waste Management — in 1993 for operation of the Chastang Landfill. In addition to the contract term running for 20 years “or the life of the landfill,” it’s unclear how the contract applies to recyclables, although the term “recycling” is defined in the contract, SWA Chairman Pete Riehm said. It is clear the SWA controls the waste stream and the waste stream must be sent to the landfill. “The contract obligates us to send the solid waste stream to Chastang,” Riehm said. “The general perspective is what we deal with may or may not apply to recycling.” In addition, Riehm said the life of the landfill could be anywhere from 75 to 150 more years. Last month, Mayor Sandy Stimpson introduced changes to the city’s recycling center. The changes included a switch to single-stream collection at the recycling center on Government Street in midtown, which would mean residents would not have to sort their recyclables. It also called for more drop-off locations in the future. The two contracts under consideration would

allow for the acceptance and processing of recyclables at Emerald Coast Utilities Authority for $125,000 over nearly three years as well as the hauling of recyclables and rental of equipment for three years at $900,000. While some have argued recyclables do not apply when discussing the solid waste stream, Riehm said there’s reason to be cautious. He said for years officials believed yard debris wasn’t included, but Waste Management successfully won a multi-million-dollar judgment from SWA charging breach of contract and lost revenues. “When they sued us they had very good lawyers who went over the contract and said you should get [construction and demolition] waste,” he said. Waste Management is still not receiving yard debris, but also is not paying royalties to SWA, Riehm said. “We’re still trying to work that out,” he said. Riehm said recycling, while the SWA supports it, could be similar to the yard debris issue. “The board is not opposed to anything that improves service,” he said. “We want to get right whatever we have to legally so we don’t get sued again.” To that end, Riehm said the board is currently reviewing the recycling contracts and could hold a meeting on the issue as early as this week. City Attorney Ricardo Woods confirmed the city has given SWA the contracts in hopes the sides can come to a decision. “We’re trying to do something positive for the city,” he said.

Going once

LATEST CONVICTED IN BID-RIGGING SCHEME RECEIVES PRISON SENTENCE

BY DALE LIESCH

he latest defendant in an ongoing investigation into a public real estate auction bid-rigging scheme was sentenced last month in federal court. Oscar C. Anez, 53, pleaded guilty in February to one count of bid rigging in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act and one count of mail fraud. On April 10, Senior U.S. District Court Judge Callie Granade ordered Anez to serve 12 months and a day in prison and to pay $343,561 in restitution. According to a U.S. Department of Justice news release, between March 2002 and November 2010, Anez conspired with others to not compete for selected foreclosure properties at public auctions in order to obtain the properties at artificially suppressed auction prices. Additionally, Anez and his co-conspirators held secret, second auctions for rigged foreclosure properties. The winner of the second auction obtained title to the property and made payoffs to co-conspirators. The money the conspirators paid to one another would have gone to mortgage holders, homeowners and others with a legal interest in the property. As Lagniappe previously reported, the Justice Department has secured at least 11 convictions in the case, but that has since grown to 15. The department has been unresponsive to requests for information about the other individuals involved.

“The court’s sentence holds Oscar Anez accountable for his major role in carrying out these schemes and will serve as a strong deterrent to others who are considering violating federal laws that prohibit anticompetitive conduct,” Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brent Snyder of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division said in a prepared statement. “To date, 15 defendants have been prosecuted and more than $1 million in restitution has been ordered … ” Mobile’s Acting U.S. Attorney Steve Butler said, “Fraud and bid-rigging have no place in this community. This sentence should serve as a reminder that violations of federal antitrust laws will be actively investigated and prosecuted in the Southern District of Alabama.” “The FBI remains dedicated to working with our law enforcement partners to eliminate this type of fraud,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert F. Lasky of the FBI’s Mobile Field Office. The sentencing of Anez is a result of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Washington Criminal II Section of the Antitrust Division and the Mobile Field Office of the FBI, with substantial assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama. Anyone with information concerning bid rigging or fraud related to public real estate foreclosure auctions can contact the Washington Criminal II Section of the Antitrust Division at 202-598-4000. M a y 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 - M a y 1 7 , 2 0 1 7 | L AG N I A P P E | 9

BAYBRIEF | EDUCATION

‘Resourceful, creative, passionate’ MCPSS’ COLLIER NAMED ‘TEACHER OF THE YEAR’ FINALIST

BY JASON JOHNSON

hasity Collier, a science teacher at Dawes Intermediate School in Mobile County, has risen through the ranks to become one of the “final four” candidates vying for the title of Alabama’s Teacher of the Year. In her 19 years of experience, Collier has worked at several Mobile County public schools including Dawes, Florence Howard Elementary School and Hankins Middle School. She also spent years working directly with the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) through the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI), an experience that allowed her to work in multiple schools, which she says helped her as an educator. “Every time I went into someone’s classroom it was a learning opportunity — whether I was seeing something that was great for kids or something that was maybe not so great for kids,” Collier said. “I’m one of those people who’s not afraid to try anything to help my students and who’s willing to learn from mistakes. I’m not afraid of failing because I’ve done it before.” Currently, Collier is teaching fifth grade science at Dawes, where she says her fellow teachers and Principal Michele McClung have contributed to her success by being supportive, collaborative and open to new ideas and ways to connect with students. “If you don’t have anybody that’s behind you, it makes it hard to be successful, but they’ve made it easy,” she said. “Sometimes teachers go into their classrooms and shut the door, but at Dawes, everybody is open to one another. It’s not a competition. We encourage each other and everybody works together toward the same same goal.”

Collier was named Mobile County’s elementary teacher of the year in January, which put her name into consideration for the statewide award along with Tami May from Semmes Middle School, who was named MCPSS’s secondary teacher of the year. At the time, McClung described Collier as a “resourceful, creative, energetic, happy and passionate teacher.” But when asked, Collier said there’s no secret to getting and holding the attention of fifth graders, adding her main goal is to try to “make learning fun” every day. Asked about connecting with her students, Collier pointed to a quote from author and educator Steve Spangler that reads, as a teacher, “if it makes it to the dinner table, you win.” “I try to make sure that whatever we do in the class, the students want to bring it to the dinner table and tell their parents,” Collier added. “Sometimes I ask my own kids, ‘What did you do in school today?’ and they’ll say, ‘Oh, nothing.’ Well, I try my best to make sure my students have something to take to the dinner table every day.” A state judging committee selected by ALSDE will make the final selection of Alabama’s 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year. Results will be revealed during a ceremony May 10 in Montgomery. Collier’s competition includes elementary teachers from public school systems in Dothan, Alexander City and Hoover. As Alabama’s Teacher of the Year, the winner will spend the majority of the next school year serving as a spokesperson for education in the state as well as presenting at workshops before various groups. The winner will also represent Alabama in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

The western lands CITY TO MOVE MPD 2ND PRECINCT

BY DALE LIESCH

he Mobile City Council delayed a vote Tuesday that will prevent officers in the Mobile Police Department’s second precinct from driving 12 miles round trip to cover calls. The second precinct is currently housed in the Western Administration Complex near Langan Park, but a lease agreement with Cobalt Realty LLC would move the station to a 9,384-square-foot facility in the Tillman’s Corner Shopping Center, in the center of the precinct. Councilors delay most votes on first read, and the issue will likely be revisited next week. Mayor Sandy Stimpson said the significance of the proposed move of the precinct should not be understated. “That’s 17,000 hours per year you could call ‘dead hours,’” Stimpson said of officers’ travel around the precinct. “Those hours can now be distributed throughout the second precinct.” The move, Stimpson said, would allow MPD to improve its response time.

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In other business, the council approved a $71,180 contract with Sunset Contracting for Dauphin Street drainage repairs. The council also approved a $15,000 contract with Geotechnical Engineering and Testing Inc. for dredging at Langan Park. The council voted unanimously to approve a $13,217 contract with Driven Engineering Inc. for Taylor Park drainage and design services. Councilors also approved a $12,300 contract with Commercial Diving Services Inc. for Harmon Park Recreation Center interior wall and security measures. The council delayed action on other items, including: the reallocation of a total of $100,001 for a parks and recreation master plan; the authorization of a contract with Terracon Consultants Inc. for 2016 pay-as-you-go County Commission District 2 work; and the authorization of a $50,000 city match for a grant from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources State Lands Division for the parks and recreation master plan.

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COMMENTARY | DAMN THE TORPEDOES

Stable of politicos make up state, local horse races ROB HOLBERT/MANAGING EDITOR/RHOLBERT@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM

WITH A SPECIAL ELECTION FOR ALABAMA’S “JUNIOR” UNITED STATES SENATE SEAT, AS WELL AS MOBILE’S OWN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, BOTH LOOMING IN AUGUST, THE POLITICAL JOCKEYING IS BEGINNING IN EARNEST. ”

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have any money. The former mayor’s biggest donors are now writing checks to Stimpson, as they did four years ago. So far Jones hasn’t filed anything showing money coming into his campaign, which would lead me to believe he’ll rely on out-of-town money. But the main reason Jones would run as short a campaign as possible is because it leaves the least amount of time for media to talk about his miserable record as mayor. If he comes out and starts throwing bombs, most media will be too distracted with those issues to really focus on the poor financial shape Mobile was in when Sam Jones left office. While Jones and some of his dwindling number of supporters still try to claim the city was doing fine fiscally when he was voted out four years ago, reams of documents and hours of public meetings have proved otherwise. I’m also sure Jones would want to have zero discussion of the disaster he left at the Mobile Housing Board, which is being investigated by HUD. Jones not only reappointed as many of his people as possible to the board before leaving — when he hadn’t kept up with regular reappointments while in office — he also ended up going to work for former MHB chairman Clarence Ball. It’s a sweet little mess. The pony race for council has heated up a bit as Councilmen John Williams, C.J. Small and Fred Richardson all face opposition. The other four councilors are currently unopposed. With summer not far off, it’ll be a hard gallop for qualifying deadlines and a final list of those who want to run. Better stock up on mint juleps and shovels while you can.

THEGADFLY

leading the field by a few lengths with roughly 30 percent of voters in his camp, followed by former State Attorney General Luther Strange at 20 percent and Brooks in “the low double digits.” If we can assume the poll to be remotely accurate, it shows a couple of things. First, Moore is indeed likely to have a good-sized base — perhaps enough to get him into the runoff. But it also says he’s got a long way to go to win outright in the primary. Moore is strong with the Christian Right, but his appeal fizzles after that. Still, he’s had the goods to be elected to the same statewide office twice and it would be foolish to discount him. My guess is he’s almost a certainty to land in any Republican runoff. But he has a long way to go to be declared a favorite. The same can be said of Strange. If Brooks’ poll is right, Big Luther has big problems. He could be a lot like Thunder Snow coming out of the gates last Saturday at the Kentucky Derby and immediately deciding to try to throw his jockey and go enjoy a mint julep at the infield party. A lot of people picked that horse to win and he didn’t even make the first turn. Strange continues to show the most sheer desire to land the position, though — even if he does so in a sleazy way. That may be his biggest problem now. After the way he unethically met with the Luv Guv to get an appointment to this seat at the same time his office was investigating the amorous chief executive in question, many voters realize the sludge factor with Strange is pretty high. Big Luther is definitely a mudder. We saw more evidence of that the second Moore got in the race, as the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) issued a fatwa against any political firm that dares to work against Strange in this special election. In other words, the NRSC has decided Big Luther will be

our senator and is threatening any firm that works with his opponents, saying they’ll be blackballed from other Republican work. Talk about going heavy on the riding crop! Ouch! Despite both Moore and Strange’s obvious weaknesses, it may be a long shot to have anyone else but them neck-and-neck heading for the finish line. As is so often the case in Alabama, we could well be saddled with a hold-your-nose-and-vote senate election. Locally a few more people have jumped into City Council races, but the main event remains shrouded in mystery. Even as we near mid-May, there’s been no “official” word as to whether former Mobile Mayor Sam Jones will actually run against Stimpson, although all signs indicate he will. Around the beginning of the year, Jones told various media outlets he was seriously thinking about running or would have an announcement “soon,” but since then Silent Sam has, well, gone silent. But signs and bumper stickers have popped up and politicos around town believe he’s definitely going to run. The conventional wisdom seems to be that Jones is planning a last-minute guerilla campaign that won’t cost much money and relies heavily upon the concept that Mobile’s black voters will come out in droves to vote for the man they didn’t vote for in droves four years ago. My own straw polling has found little to no excitement about a Jones run, with most people saying, “What’s he think he’s doing?” One could argue if he is indeed running, this approach is definitely counter to the norm. It’s understandable Jones wouldn’t want to spend much money because he doesn’t

Cartoon/Laura Rasmussen

ith a special election for Alabama’s “junior” United States Senate seat, as well as Mobile’s own municipal elections, both looming in August, the political jockeying is beginning in earnest. Maybe that’s fitting as we’re in the middle of horse racing’s Triple Crown season and it’s a well-worn analogy to compare political races to those involving expensive, pampered equine ridden by tiny people in weird outfits. To carry the analogy one hooved step forward, politicians are often said to be full of the stuff horse owners get to shovel out of their stalls every day. So we have some horse races and some people in those horse races are probably full of horse(bad word), right? Right. The Senate race is making the most hay, especially since no one has officially made it official he is officially going to challenge Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s re-election. So let’s look at Senate first. The first public poll numbers came out late last week, courtesy of potential candidate U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks. He told Capitol Hill newspaper Roll Call his poll shows former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore

GOVERNMENT STARTS SELLING OFF ASSETS FROM THE “PILL MILL” CASE.

COMMENTARY | THE HIDDEN AGENDA

In search of the perfect gift for Mom ASHLEY TRICE/EDITOR/ASHLEYTOLAND@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM

othering is, without question, very hard work. It is also a job where you can often feel like you are failing more than you are succeeding. (Ughh. I forgot to send his PE clothes back to school … again.) And even when you do have a few triumphs they often go unrecognized. (She actually ate something green! There is no poop currently sitting in any of our toilets! Yay!) Yep. Trying to mold tiny humans who come into this world totally helpless into healthy, self-sufficient, considerate, well-educated, productive large humans who remember to flush the toilet really is quite exhausting. Perhaps that’s why it always seems like typical Mother’s Day gifts would also be great choices as “welcome home” gifts for someone who has been at war, in a women’s correctional facility/mental institution or chained to the floor in some kidnapper’s damp, dark basement for an extended period of time. Massages, mani/pedis, facials, scrubs, robes, pajamas, slippers, bath salts, “soothing” lotions and candles or even some sort of foot bath thingy are all always solid ideas for Mom — and seem to say “I know I have almost driven you off the deep end, but please accept

stances, foot-bruising Legos, naked Barbies, etc., they seem to shed as they simply walk from room to room. Have them say, “Thank you, Mom, for buying me this fidget spinner” or “picking up my favorite flavor of toothpaste from the store.” And don’t let them complain/argue about what’s being served for any meal, what they have to do that day — including homework, chores, visiting various old relatives or taking baths — and prohibit them from fighting with their siblings. Just for 24 hours. That’s all. On second thought, nevermind. This is way too much to ask.

Netflix and chill, for real

The term “Netflix and Chill” is widely known among 20-something singles as a euphemism for a booty call. Let’s watch a few episodes of “Breaking Bad” and then well, you know. But once you become a parent — perhaps nine months after a night of “Netflix and Chilling” — you would really like this term to take on a more a literal meaning. Like, could I please just have one afternoon or evening where the Bubble Guppies or that insufPERHAPS THAT’S WHY IT ALWAYS SEEMS ferable little do-gooder, martyr of a princess Sofia LIKE TYPICAL MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS the First isn’t on every screen in my house? WOULD ALSO BE GREAT CHOICES AS “WELCOME Oh, how you long for just one day where you HOME” GIFTS FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN AT could veg on the couch on WAR, IN A WOMEN’S CORRECTIONAL FACILITY/ a Sunday afternoon and “crack out” on a cable MENTAL INSTITUTION OR CHAINED TO THE FLOOR series or trash TV of some IN SOME KIDNAPPER’S DAMP, DARK BASEMENT sort. It just doesn’t happen when you have little FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. kids running around. You have to pray to get the flu in order to maybe get in a season of “Veep” or this relaxing lavender body wash as a token of “House of Cards.” my appreciation for pushing you to the brink.” So, grandparents looking for a good These are all excellent gifts and certainly appreciated, but there are other things that are Mother’s Day (or Father’s Day) gift, stop by your kid’s house one random Sunday and pick absolutely free Mom would love to receive up the grands. And then say, “We thought you along with a “luxury eye mask” and a coffee two might want to ‘Netflix and Chill’ today!” mug that says “There’s really wine in here.” And then awkwardly wink at them. Sure, Here a few ideas … they will be grossed out at first when they think you are talking about sex. But once you It’s the little things … leave, they will not care, as they will be able Dads, on Mother’s Day, convince your to binge watch “Billions” without worrying children to do a few simple things for the about young ears hearing the F-word every woman who brought them into this world after five seconds. It will be the greatest afternoon 40 long, grueling weeks of pregnancy and 80 you could give Mom (and Dad, too). hours of hard labor — give or take. Make your little angels sleep until at least 8:30 a.m. or at Or just forget all this least just leave their mother alone until then, Just take her to brunch and get her jacked instead of the standard 6:18 a.m. Saturday/ up on cheap champagne. That works too. Sunday waking time. Really, she doesn’t care. Those little unappreThough it may take blackmail, bribery or ciative, early rising, messy monsters are the threat of bodily harm, make your little slugs greatest things that ever happened to her. No clean up the trail of slime they leave all over the house. This trail includes but is not limited peppermint foot lotion or chamomile bubble to the amazing amount of toys, clothes, shoes, bath required. (Though it would be accepted. Popsicle wrappers, dirty (and sometimes wet) So would spa gift certificates. Or flowers. Or nice jewelry. No pressure, though.) hand towels stained with unidentified sub-

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COMMENTARY | THE MONTGOMERY MINUTE

A call for context BY LEE HEDGEPETH/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ere in the Heart of Dixie, like anywhere, history doesn’t exist in a vacuum. But for Alabamians, in particular, our history has become a part of who we are. Instead of stowing away our past, we often put it on a pedestal for all to see, and that’s to be expected. Alabama’s political and social elite are heirs of not just pride, though. They’re heirs of prejudice, too, and that’s something we should all work to recognize. So when it comes to “protecting” the past with bills like the Alabama Memorial Preservation Act, for example, lawmakers in Montgomery are pedestal-pushing: prioritizing positive political sentiment for a bygone era over the personal realities and the complicated context of the past. Instead of, as is proposed, immortalizing the state’s infamous past without a hint of modern-day nuance, lawmakers should aim to provide a holistic picture of what the state’s monuments and memorials mean to its citizens — and if they don’t, Alabamians should do it for them. It’s a call for context, and I don’t think it’s too much to ask. You can see this delusional dynamic best in Montgomery proper. Feet from where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “How long, not long” speech after the famous Selma to Montgomery march is a star on the marble steps leading up to the capitol. The star doesn’t mark King’s speech. There is no recognition of King at all in the capitol, although you can see his church, Dexter Avenue Baptist, from its entrance. Instead, the star on the capitol steps marks another, very different event: the swearing-in of Jefferson Davis as the president of the Confederacy. As a city that bills itself as not just the “Cradle of the Confederacy” but also the “Birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement,” Montgomery should commit to providing that context for its citizens, its

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visitors and its posterity, but it doesn’t. And that’s hardly the only example. If you finish climbing the marble steps to the capitol from the Davis star, you can’t miss his statue, which towers over Goat Hill, glaring down Dexter Avenue at King’s sanctuary, and even further to the circle at Dexter and Court, where Rosa Parks boarded the bus that would change American history. Across from the Davis statue, also facing down Dexter Avenue, placed just in front of the capitol, is another sculpture, this one of J. Marion Sims, the so-called “father of gynecology.” Sims performed surgeries on explicitly unwilling, enslaved African-American women in Montgomery to experiment with new gynecological techniques. According to a peer-reviewed journal article about Sims written by Sara Spettel and Mark Donald White, “... he is a prime example of progress in the medical profession made at the expense of a vulnerable population.” Sims, glorified in stone at our state’s seat of power, is also one of the main subjects of historian Harriet Washington’s award-winning book “Medical Apartheid,” in which she describes Sims’ methods at length: “Each surgical scene was a violent struggle between the slaves and physicians and each woman’s body was a bloodied battleground. Each naked, unanaesthetized slave woman had to be forcibly restrained by the other physicians through her shrieks of agony as Sims determinedly sliced, then sutured her genitalia.” A New York Times columnist has called for there to be statues of Sims’ documented “patients” — Anarcha, Lucey and Betsey, the mothers of gynecology — erected next to Sims. That would be amazing, but far too much to hope for. At least some of the relevant context, though, even on

a plaque, would be helpful. Across the street, also a stone’s throw from Dexter Avenue Baptist, is another contextless monument not really worth celebrating, particularly without a serious sense of its impact and place in history: the first White House of the Confederacy. According to a recent Associated Press report, the thousands of Alabama fourth graders, who thankfully also visit other, more reality-oriented sites on their field trips to the state’s capital, can learn in their stop at the now-museum that Jefferson Davis was part of a “heroic resistance” and was “held by his Negroes in genuine affection as well as highest esteem.” Not exactly the historical context I’d hope for. Asked why slavery is not a prominent part of the museum’s exhibits, Gibbs Davis, who is affiliated with the nonprofit that runs the first White House of the Confederacy, said of the visiting children: “They just know it.” Back across the street at the capitol complex, on the other side of the state’s center of political power, is an 88-foot-tall Confederate memorial, the

ALABAMA’S POLITICAL AND SOCIAL ELITE ARE HEIRS OF NOT JUST PRIDE, THOUGH. THEY’RE HEIRS OF PREJUDICE, TOO, AND THAT’S SOMETHING WE SHOULD ALL WORK TO RECOGNIZE.” cornerstone of which was laid by Davis himself. Nowhere, though, is there a disclaimer: Jefferson Davis, like other Southern leaders at the time, advocated for the abandonment of confederate symbolism and memorial. “My pride,” Davis wrote, for example, in his 1881 book “The Rise and Fall of the Confederate Government,” “is that that [Confederate] flag shall not set between contending brothers; and that, when it shall no longer be the common flag of the country, it shall be folded up and laid away like a vesture no longer used.” The proposed Alabama Memorial Preservation Act doesn’t deal with flags, but I think even when it comes to memorials and monuments Davis would agree: context is key. As of press time, the legislation — which would require court or committee approval for the removal any monument or memorial more than 20 years old — has passed both the House and the Senate in different forms. A conference committee has been appointed to hammer out the differences, but the legislative clock is ticking.

COMMENTARY | THE BELTWAY BEAT

A new take on health care BY JEFF POOR/COLUMNIST/JEFFREYPOOR@GMAIL.COM

overnment has long played a role in education. The Founding Fathers, particularly John Adams, believed public education was necessary for a functional democracy. Somewhere along the way, free education for all transitioned from a benefit to democracy to a right. Now, 240 years after the country’s founding, we have a huge public school infrastructure in America. Unlike most government programs, however, public schooling is largely not centralized in Washington, D.C. Washington does play a role, but for the most part local governments are in charge of education at the grade school level. Some local governments do an awful job. Others are great. It mostly varies along the lines of income and what a local government can collect in taxes (also interested and in-

We can argue the merits of doing so, but the reality is there is no political will to repeal the law. The sad fact is government is going to play a role in health care for the foreseeable future. Thus, we are well on our way to some sort of public health care option. But why does it have to be centrally planned? Why not leave it up to the local governments? Our public education system is not perfect, but it somewhat gets the job done. Why not set up a similar system for health care? Sure, there will be some disparities. Wealthier places will have better health care, but it is better than no health care, and you could likely cut out the middleman: the insurance company. Yes, another public bureaucracy is something to make conservatives cringe. But it is much better than a centralized federal bureaucracy in Washington, D.C. The federal government has tried to do it with the Veterans Affairs Hospital system and failed miserably. Leaving it up to city and county governments would offer more flexibility and accountability. For example, if the Santa Monica, California, health care system wanted to offer sex change operations but the Mobile County system did not, then that would be a possibility. And it is not to say the country would eliminate a private health insurance market. Individuals still could have private health insurance plans if they wanted them. Consider our education system, in which private schools are an option. As an American, you do not have to send your child to the public school offered by your local government. Sure, you will still bear the costs of that public system. But if you so desire, an employer could offer health insurance that could be used at the private hospital of your choice. The idea here is to have some sort of public health care option for everyone. In some places, it might be the only option but at least local governments would have some skin in the game. If it were centralized like a European socialist system, you would have teams of unaccountable bureaucrats thousands of miles away. Sure, maybe you could call your congressman, but there is little even a member of Congress can do to take on a bureaucracy on their own. However, if you had a governing body, like a local school board, in charge instead that was accountable to the local voters, a VA Hospitaltype nightmare would be less of a possibility. If as a society we have decided health care is a right, then it is time to disassociate health care from health insurance and offer a true public option. Whatever the public option is, a localized public option separate from the health insurance-based system might be the least of all evils.

GOVERNMENT HAS LONG PLAYED A ROLE IN EDUCATION. THE FOUNDING FATHERS, PARTICULARLY JOHN ADAMS, BELIEVED PUBLIC EDUCATION WAS NECESSARY FOR A FUNCTIONAL DEMOCRACY. SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY, FREE EDUCATION FOR ALL TRANSITIONED FROM A BENEFIT TO DEMOCRACY TO A RIGHT. volved parents, but that is for another day). Like education, a more recent development is the sense health care is a right in this country. A lasting consequence of Barack Obama’s presidency is the apparent national conviction everyone is entitled to health care, much like education, regardless of income. That obviously means those who can pay more will have to pay more in order to cover someone who cannot. The “from each according to ability to each according to need” for health care. The reality is that this system as it is currently constituted is not sustainable. When Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law on March 23, 2010, it set in place a mandate requiring Americans to have health insurance or face a penalty. Some would have to pay more than others because under this system, the government would offer you a subsidy based on your income. Even with all this government interference, the market still reigned supreme. A hybrid government-private health insurance company, Frankenstein creation is simply not feasible. Some health insurance companies are no longer participating in “Obamacare” in some states and customers no longer have options. It is time to rethink the role health insurance companies play in our health care system. What we have learned in the early days of this post-Obama era of government, in which the Republicans control both chambers of Congress and the White House, is we’re never going back to the health care system of preMarch 23, 2010.

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BUSINESS | THE REAL DEAL

MCPSS principal recognized as innovator BY RON SIVAK/COLUMNIST/BUSINESS@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM

he 14th annual Marbury Technology Award winners, a collection of innovatively disruptive K-12 educators, administrators and support personnel from all over the state, were recently recognized for their efforts, according to a news release. Dr. Amanda Jones, principal of Mary B. Austin Elementary, was chosen as the top school administrator in the state for the 2016-2017 school year. “The announcement came as a complete surprise to me, but is a great honor,” Jones said. Sponsored by the Alabama State Department of Education, the award honors educator Chiquita Marbury for her years of service as a technology innovator in Alabama. Education professionals from across the state who successfully introduced new technology concepts and systems within their respective school programs were selected. Only one recipient per category was chosen. Additional winners were: Dr. Ed Miller, superintendent, Gadsden City School System; Shawn Hudgins, technology coordinator, Cleburne County School System; Daniel Whitt, central office administrator, Madison City School System; Jennifer Williams, elementary teacher, Central School, Madison County School System; Chad Burdett, middle school teacher, Oak Mountain Middle School, Shelby County School System; Melanie Brooks, high school teacher, Walter Wellborn High School, Calhoun County School System. Nominees were judged based upon five criteria: innovation and creativity; impact on teaching and learning; leadership; teamwork; and scholarship. The awards panel rated teacher attribute scores for the highest level of excellence in each criteria. Each of the award winners will receive a trophy of recognition at the 2017 Alabama Educational Technol-

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ogy Conference to be held June 13-15 at Hoover High School. The awards ceremony will take place during the opening session at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 14.

S&S Sprinkler adopts tax program

Mobile-based S&S Sprinkler Co. recently became the first local employer to sign up for the Apprenticeship Alabama Tax Credit Program. With the program, S&S Sprinkler will employ and train future workers with the skills the company requires. The company will receive a tax credit through the program for each apprentice it hires. The company currently has 29 apprentices, according to S&S Sprinkler chairman Leland Moore Sr. The Alabama Department of Commerce officially launched Apprenticeship Alabama in 2017. The program offers tax credits to companies registered with the program through the U.S. Department of Labor hiring qualified apprentices. Those apprentices receive classroom or industryspecific instruction and on-the-job training. Through the Apprenticeship Alabama program, apprentices receive a progressive wage, giving them an “earn while you learn” training experience that specifically meets a company’s workforce needs. Upon completion of the program, the apprentice will have a transportable credential that will increase his or her wage-earning potential. An employer taking part in the program is permitted an income tax credit of up to $1,000 for each qualifying apprentice, and can claim a tax credit for up to five apprentices a year. Additionally, there are other federal and state funding resources that may benefit both the employer and employee. The 2017 tax credit deadline for companies to sign up a registered apprenticeship program is May 31. “I am happy to say S&S Sprinkler is the first company in the region to sign up for the Apprenticeship Alabama

Tax Credit,” Frank Chestnut, manager of Apprenticeship Alabama, said. “S&S is a major player in the construction trades industry and is affiliated with many trades associations, including the Alabama General Contractors Mobile chapter.” S&S Sprinkler is a full-service fire protection contractor licensed in 13 states. It provides design, installation, inspections and service for fire sprinklers, alarms, suppression, extinguishers and security systems. The company has been in business since 1971 and has more than 200 employees in five Southern offices — Mobile; Baton Rouge and Westlake, Louisiana; Beaumont, Texas; and Charlotte, North Carolina.

GCCC’s Webb recognized

Oncology Nurse Mandi Webb, RN, BSN, a member of the radiation oncology care team at Gulf Coast Cancer Centers (GCCC) in Daphne, recently won first place in a blog writing contest sponsored by the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS). ONS 41st annual Congress attendees were invited to write a blog post to share the innovative changes they implemented in their practices as a result of attending the Congress. Webb’s winning article earned her free registration to the ONS 2017 Congress. The article describes a special care kit developed to help head and neck cancer patients prevent and control radiation side effects. “We are very proud of Mandi for the recognition she has received from her peers and the Oncology Nursing Society,” said Patrice Wilson, regional director of nursing for The US Oncology Network. The care kit has been well received by patients and will be provided to every head and neck cancer patient receiving treatment at all GCCC locations throughout South Alabama. The kit enables patients to play a role in their own care by giving them the knowledge and tools they need to both prevent and treat common side effects that may occur with radiation. “My goal in developing the care kit was to be proactive with patients so they can prevent as many side effects as possible,” Webb said. “By providing the kits on consult day, before treatment even begins, patients get an understanding of the products they can use if side effects occur, as well as how to use them so they can intervene immediately on their own behalf.” GCCC provides evidence-based radiation oncology therapy in the Gulf Coast region. It was the first freestanding cancer center in the area to provide IMRT (intensity-modulated radiation therapy) and IGRT (image-guided radiation therapy). These technologies are offered at facilities in Brewton, Daphne and Foley. In addition, the practice offers respiratory gating, full-body stereotactic radiosurgery, BrainLAB and PET/CT technology at its Foley treatment center. For more information about treatment procedures, call toll free 866-970-4222 or visit the GCCC website.

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FIREHOUSE SUBS ($)

HOT SUBS, COLD SALADS & CATERING 6300 Grelot Rd. • 631-3730

FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES ($) $10/PERSON • $$ 10-25/PERSON • $$$ OVER 25/PERSON

COMPLETELY COMFORTABLE ALL SPORTS BAR & GRILL ($) 3408 Pleasant Valley Rd. • 345-9338

AL’S HOTDOGS ($)

CLASSIC HOTDOGS, GYROS & MILKSHAKES 4701 Airport Blvd. • 342-3243

ATLANTA BREAD COMPANY ($-$$) SANDWICHES, SALADS & MORE. 3680 Dauphin St. • 380-0444

BAKE MY DAY ($)

OLD-FASHIONED SOUTHERN BAKE SHOP 156 N. McGregor Ave. • 219-7261

BOB’S DINER ($)

GOOD OLD AMERICAN COOKING 263 St. Francis St. • 405-1497

BUCK’S DINER ($)

CLASSIC AMERICAN DINER 58 N. Secion St. Fairhope • 928-8521

CAFE 219 ($)

SALADS, SANDWICHES & POTATO SALAD 219 Conti St. • 438-5234

CAMELLIA CAFÉ ($-$$$)

CONTEMPORARY SOUTHERN FARE 61 Section St. • Fairhope • 928-4321

CAMMIE’S OLD DUTCH ($) MOBILE’S CLASSIC ICE CREAM SPOT 2511 Old Shell Rd. • 471-1710

CARPE DIEM ($)

DELI FOODS, PASTRIES & SPECIALTY DRINKS 4072 Old Shell Rd. • 304-0448

CLARK’S KITCHEN ($-$$)

SANDWICHES, SOUTHERN CUISINE & CATERING 5817 Old Shell Rd. • 343-0200

CHAT-A-WAY CAFE ($)

QUICHES & SANDWICHES 4366 Old Shell Rd. • 343-9889

CHICK-FIL-A ($)

BURGERS, MILKSHAKES & FRIES 4401 Old Shell Rd. • 447-2394 4663 Airport Blvd. • 300-8425 5319 Hwy 90 • 661-0071 1225 Satchel Page Dr.• 378-8768

FOOSACKLY’S ($)

FAMOUS CHICKEN FINGERS 29181 US Hwy 98 • Daphne • 375-1104 7843 Moffett Rd. • 607-6196 1109 Shelton Beach Rd. • 287-1423 310 S. University Blvd. • 343-0047 2250 Airport Blvd. • 479-2922 7641 Airport Blvd. • 607-7667 2558 Schillinger Rd. • 219-7761 3249 Dauphin St. • 479-2000

FOY SUPERFOODS ($) 119 Dauphin St.• 307-8997

GULF COAST EXPLOREUM CAFE ($) HOMEMADE SOUPS & SANDWICHES 65 Government St. • 208-6815

1880 Industrial Pkwy. • 675-2999

CREAM AND SUGAR ($)

3869 Airport Blvd. • 345-9544 5470 Inn Rd. • 661-9117 28975 US 98 • Daphne • 625-3910

SANDWICHES, CATERING & DELIVERY TOO 6920 Airport Blvd. • 414-5444 9 Du Rhu Dr. • 340-8694 62 B Royal St. • 432-0360

JOE CAIN CAFÉ ($)

PIZZAS, SANDWICHES, COCKTAILS 26 N. Royal St. • 338-2000

JONELLI’S ($)

1252 Govenment St.• 301-7556 HOME COOKING 4054 Government St. • 665-4557

LICKIN’ GOOD DONUTS ($) 3242 Dauphin St. • 471-2590

LODA BIER GARTEN ($) MAMA’S ($)

SLAP YOUR MAMA GOOD HOME COOKING 220 Dauphin St. • 432-6262

MARS HILL CAFE ($)

GREAT SANDWICHES, COFFEE & MORE 1087 Downtowner Blvd. • 643-1611

MARY’S SOUTHERN COOKING ($) 3011 Springhill Ave. • 476-2232

MICHELI’S CAFE ($)

DAUPHIN ST. CAFE ($)

MCSHARRY’S ($-$$)

D’ MICHAEL’S ($)

MIKO’S ITALIAN ICE ($)

PHILLY CHEESE STEAKS, GYROS & MORE 7101-A Theodore Dawes Rd. • 653-2979

D NU SPOT ($)

22159 Halls Mill Rd. . • 648-6522

DELISH BAKERY AND EATERY ($) GREAT DESSERTS & HOT LUNCH 23 Upham St. • 473-6115

DEW DROP INN ($)

CLASSIC BURGERS, HOTDOGS & SETTING 1808 Old Shell Rd. • 473-7872

DUNKIN DONUTS ($)

DONUTS, COFFEE & SANDWICHES 1976 Michigan Ave. • 442-4846 3876 Airport Blvd. • 219-7369 505 Schillinger Rd. S. • 442-4845 29160 US Hwy 98 • 621-2228

E WING HOUSE ($)

6358 Cottage Hill Rd. • 725-6917 AUTHENTIC IRISH PUB 101 N. Bancroft St.• 990-5100 HOTDOGS SANDWICHES & COOL TREATS 3371 Dauphin Island Pkwy • 300–4015

MOMMA GOLDBERG’S DELI ($) SANDWICHES & MOMMA’S LOVE 3696 Airport Blvd. • 344-9500 5602 Old Shell Rd. • 287-6556

MONTEGO’S ($-$$)

FRESH CARIBBEAN-STYLE FOOD & CRAFT BEER 6601 Airport Blvd. • 634-3445 225 Dauphin St. • 375-1576

MOON PIE GENERAL STORE ($)

107 St Francis St #115 • RSA Bank Trust Building

MOSTLY MUFFINS ($) MUFFINS, COFFEE & WRAPS 105 Dauphin St. • 433-9855

NEWK’S EXPRESS CAFE ($)

15 N Conception St. • 433-2299

OVEN-BAKED SANDWICHES & MORE 1335 Satchel Page Dr. Suite C. • 287-7356 7440 Airport Blvd. • 633-0096 30500 State Hwy 181 #132 • 625-6544

FATHOMS LOUNGE

O’DALYS HOLE IN THE WALL ($)

195 S University Blvd. Suite H • 662-1829

EUGENE’S MONKEY BAR ($) SMALL PLATES AND CREATIVE COCKTAILS 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000

FLOUR GIRLS BAKERY ($) 809 Hillcrest Rd. • 634-2285

562 Dauphin St.• 725-6429

OLD SHELL GROWLERS ($) GROWLER STATION AND BITES 1801 Old Shell Rd. • 345-4767

18 | L AG N I A P P E | M a y 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 - M a y 1 7 , 2 0 1 7

WEDGIE’S ($)

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ($$$)

THAI & SUSHI 5369 D Hwy 90 W • 661-5100

WILD WING STATION ($)

SAGE RESTAURANT ($$)

THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI BAR 960 Schillinger Rd. S • 660-4470

GOURMET GRILLED CHEESE 5955 Old Shell Rd. • 287-6134 1500 Gov’t St. • 287-1526

YAK THE KATHMANDU KITCHEN ($-$$)

BAKERY, SANDWICHES & MORE 750 S. Broad St. • 438-1511 4464 Old Shell Rd. • 342-8546 107 St. Francis St. Suite 102 • 438-2261

PUNTA CLARA KITCHEN ($)

FUDGE, PRALINES & MORE 17111 Scenic Hwy 98 • Fairhope • 928-8477

R BISTRO ($-$$)

334 Fairhope Ave • Fairhope • 928-2399

REGINA’S KITCHEN ($-$$) ROLY POLY ($)

ROSHELL’S CAFE ($)

2906 Springhill Ave. • 479-4614

ROYAL KNIGHT ($)

JIMMY JOHN’S ($)

312 Schillinger Rd. • 633-9077

POLLMAN’S BAKERY ($)

JERSEY MIKE’S ($)

AUTHENTIC SUB SANDWICHES 7449 Airport Blvd. • 375-1820

ROYAL SCAM ($$)

COFFEE AND DONUTS 759 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope • 928-7223

THE WINDMILL MARKET ($)

ROSIE’S GRILL ($-$$)

MIND-BLOWING ISLAND FOOD 3700 Gov’t Blvd. Ste A • 602-1973

WAREHOUSE BAKERY & DONUTS ($)

CHICKEN FINGERS, SALAD & SANDWICHES. 1165 University Blvd. • 202-0959

JAMAICAN VIBE ($)

COFFEE, BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DESSERT 351 George St #B • 405-0003 HOT LUNCH, DAILY MENU (INSIDE VIA) 1717 Dauphin St. • 470-5231

PDQ ($)

HOOTERS ($)

PUB FOOD AND DRAFT BEERS 251 Dauphin St. • 287-6871

CONNECTION FROZEN YOGURT ($)

BAR FOOD 271 Dauphin St • 438-9585

WRAPS & SALADS 3220 Dauphin St. • 479-2480

SEAFOOD & SANDWICHES 212 ½ Fairhope Ave •Fairhope • 928-4100

CHICKEN SALAD CHICK ($)

CHICAGO STYLE EATERY 1222 Hillcrest Rd. • 461-6599

PAT’S DOWNTOWN GRILL ($)

SANDWICHES, SUBS & SOUPS 2056 Gov’t St. • 476-2777

JUDY’S PLACE ($-$$)

CHI-TOWN DAWGZ ($)

ORIGINAL SANDWICH AND BAKE SHOP 42 ½ Section St. • Fairhope • 929-0122 102 Dauphin St. • 405-0031

GUMBO SHACK ($-$$)

107 St. Francis St. • 415-1700 3244 Dauphin St. • 476-0320 3215 Bel Air Mall • 476-8361 4707 Airport Blvd. • 461-9933 435 Schillinger Rd. • 639-1163 1682 US HWY 98 • Daphne • 621-3215 30500 AL 181 • Spanish Fort • 621-3020 CHICKEN SALAD, SALAD & SOUP 2370 S. Hillcrest Rd. Unit R • 660-0501 5753 Old Shell Rd. • 408-3236 1802 US Hwy 98 Suite F• 625-1092

PANINI PETE’S ($)

SANDWICHES, SOUTHWEST FARE, 7 DAYS 1203 Hwy 98 Ste. 3D • Daphne • 626-2440 LUNCH & DINNER 3004 Gov’t Blvd. • 287-1220

ROYAL STREET CAFE ($) HOMEMADE LUNCH & BREAKFAST 104 N. Royal St. • 434-0011

SALLY’S PIECE-A-CAKE ($) BAKERY 5638 Three Notch Rd.• 219-6379

85 N. Bancroft St. Fairhope • 990.8883

HOME COOKIN’ LIKE MOMMA MADE. 2804 Springhill Ave. • 473-4739

THE TRELLIS ROOM ($$$)

BAR-B-QUING WITH MY HONEY ($$)

CONTEMPORARY SOUTHERN CUISINE Battle House Hotel, Royal St. • 338-5493

A FAVORITE BARBECUE SPOT 5456 Old Shell Rd. • 343-0001

COTTON STATE BBQ ($)

DOWNTOWN LUNCH 101 N. Conception St. • 545-4682

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT ($-$$) BBQ AND MORE Jubilee Sq.Ctr. Hwy 90, Daphne • 210-2151 McGowin Park Ctr. Satchel Paige Dr. • 471-1050 7721 Airport Blvd. • 380-8957

DREAMLAND BBQ ($)

RIBS, SANDWICHES & GREAT SIDES 3314 Old Shell Rd. • 479-9898

MEAT BOSS ($)

5401 Cottage Hill Rd. • 591-4842

MOE’S ORIGINAL BAR B QUE ($)

SIMPLY SWEET ($)

SMOKEY DEMBO SMOKE HOUSE ($)

SANDWICHES, SOUPS, SALADS & MORE 41 West I-65 Service Rd. N Suite 150. • 287-2793

SEAFOOD, ASIAN & AMERICAN CUISINE 69 St. Michael St • 375-1113 CASUAL FINE DINING 104 N. Section St. • Fairhope • 929-2219

SAUCY Q BARBQUE ($)

STEVIE’S KITCHEN ($)

CUISINE OF INDIA ($$)

MODERN GASTROPUB INSPIRED BY JAPANESE KITCHEN 455 Dauphin St • 433-0376

BACKYARD CAFE & BBQ ($)

SERDA’S COFFEEHOUSE ($)

CUPCAKE BOUTIQUE 6207 Cottage Hill Rd. Suite B • 665-3003

SAISHO ($-$$)

TAMARA’S DOWNTOWN ($$)

BRICK PIT ($)

AWARD-WINNING BARBQUE 1111 Gov’t Blvd. • 433-7427

THE WASH HOUSE ($$)

FOOD, WINE & MORE 5150 Old Shell Rd. • 341-1497

POUR BABY

WINE BAR, CRAFT BEERS & BISTRO 6808 Airport Blvd. • 343-3555

FIREHOUSE WINE BAR & SHOP 216 St Francis St. • 421-2022

RED OR WHITE

323A De La Mare Ave, Fairhope • 990-0003 1104 Dauphin St.. • 478-9494

ROYAL STREET TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC, MARTINIS & DINNER MENU. 26 N. Royal St. • 338-2000

SOUTHERN NAPA

BISTRO PLATES, CRAFT BEERS & PANTRY 2304 Main St. • 375-2800

THE VINEYARD

FALAFEL? TRY SOME HUMMUS 7 SPICE ($-$$)

HEALTHY, DELICIOUS MEDITERRANEAN FOOD. 3762 Airport Blvd. • 725-1177

A PREMIER CATERER & COOKING CLASSES 1880-A Airport Blvd. • 450-9051

4861 Bit & Spur Rd. • 340-6464

BRIQUETTES STEAKHOUSE ($-$$)

AUTHENTIC TURKISH & MEDITERRANEAN 3702 Airport Blvd. • 461-6901

DAILY SPECIALS MADE FROM SCRATCH 57 N. Claiborne St. • 694-6853

ABBA’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE ($-$$) ISTANBUL GRILL ($)

JERUSALEM CAFE ($-$$)

CHUCK’S FISH ($$)

MOBILE’S OLDEST MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE 5773 Airport Blvd. • 304-1155

THE HARBERDASHER ($)

CORNER 251 ($-$$)

MEDITERRANEAN FOOD AND HOOKAH 326 Azalea Rd • 229-4206

THE PIGEON HOLE ($)

DAUPHIN’S ($$-$$$)

THE GALLEY ($)

OPEN FOR LUNCH, INSIDE GULFQUEST 155 S. Water St • 436-8901 113 Dauphin St.• 436-0989

SOUTHERN COOKING & THEN SOME 1716 Main St. Daphne • 222-4120

THE SUNFLOWER CAFE ($) INSIDE VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOOD 3055 A Dauphin St • 479-3200

THYME BY THE BAY ($-$$)

33 N Section St. • Fairhope • 990-5635

TIME TO EAT CAFE ($)

DOWN-HOME COUNTRY COOKIN 7351 Theodore Dawes Rd. • 654-0228 13665 N. Wintzell Ave. • 824-1119

TIN ROOF ($-$$)

SOUTHERN CASUAL FAMILY DINING 10800 US HWY 31 • Spanish Fort• 621-4995

TP CROCKMIERS ($)

AMERICAN RESTAURANT & BAR 250 Dauphin St. • 476-1890

THREE GEORGES CANDY SHOP ($) LIGHT LUNCH WITH SOUTHERN FLAIR. 226 Dauphin St. • 433-6725

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE ($)

GREAT SMOOTHIES, WRAPS & SANDWICHES. Du Rhu Dr. • 378-5648 570 Schillinger Road • 634-3454

UNCLE JIMMY’S DELICIOUS HOTDOGS ($)

2550 Dauphin Island Pkwy S. • 307-5328

SEAFOOD AND SUSHI 551 Dauphin St.• 219-7051 HIGH QUALITY FOOD & DRINKS 251 Government St • 460-3157 HIGH QUALITY FOOD WITH A VIEW 107 St. Francis St • 444-0200

DUMBWAITER ($$-$$$) 9 Du Rhu Dr. Suite 201 167 Dauphin St. • 445-3802

FIVE ($$)

GREAT FOOD AND COCKTAILS 609 Dauphin St. • 308-3105

KITCHEN ON GEORGE ($-$$)

CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN FOOD 351A George & Savannah St. • 436-8890

LAUNCH ($-$$)

HIGH QUALITY FOOD & DRINKS 251 Government St. • 432-8000

MAGHEE’S GRILL ON THE HILL ($-$$) GREAT LUNCH & DINNER 3607 Old Shell Rd. • 445-8700

NOBLE SOUTH ($$)

LOCAL INGREDIENTS 203 Dauphin St. • 690-6824

NOJA ($$-$$$)

INVENTIVE & VERY FRESH CUISINE 6 N. Jackson St. • 433-0377

OSMAN’S RESTAURANT ($$) SUPREME EUROPEAN CUISINE 2579 Halls Mill Rd. • 479-0006

HIBACHI GRILL & ASIAN CUISINE 309 Bel Air Blvd • 470-8033

HIBACHI 1 ($-$$)

2370 Hillcrest Rd. Unit B • 380-6062

ICHIBAN SUSHI ($)

LIQUID ($$)

FOOD PAK

TILMO’S BBQ ($)

GRILLED STEAKS, CHICKEN & SEAFOOD 720A Schillinger Rd. S. S2. • 607-7200 901 Montlimar Dr • 408-3133

GOLDEN BOWL ($)

WINE, BEER, GOURMET FOODS, & MORE. 720 Schillinger Rd. S. Unit 8 • 287-1851

SUNSET POINTE ($-$$) THE BLIND MULE ($)

THAI FARE AND SUSHI 2000 Airport Blvd. • 478-9888

KAI JAPANESE RESTAURANT ($-$$)

DOMKE MARKET

SUGAR RUSH DONUT CO. ($) AT FLU CREEK 831 N Section St. • Fairhope • 990-7766

FUJI SAN ($)

A LITTLE VINO

UPSCALE WINE BAR 9 Du Rhu Dr. S 201 • 287-7135

BAY GOURMET ($$)

LUNCH BUFFET 3674 Airport Blvd. • 341-6171

JAPANESE & CHINESE CUISINE 3959 Cottage Hill Rd • 666-6266

DROP DEAD GOURMET

4701 Airport Blvd. • 408-3379

3966 Airport Blvd.• 343-5530

17111 Scenic HWY 98 • Point Clear • 928-4838

3758 Dauphin Island Pkwy. • 473-1401 FAST BBQ W/ DRIVE-THRU 3249 Dauphin St. • 652-3508

CHARM ($-$$)

CHINA DOLL ($)

‘CUE

BBQ, BURGERS, WINGS & SEAFOOD 19170 Hwy 43 Mt. Vernon. • 839-9927

BENJAS ($)

INSIDE THE MOBILE MARRIOTT 3101 Airport Blvd. • 476-6400

VON’S BISTRO ($-$$)

COFFEE, SMOOTHIES, LUNCH & BEERS. 5460 Old Shell Rd. • 344-4575 COFFEE, LUNCHES, LIVE MUSIC & GELATO 3 Royal St. S. • 415-3000

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE & TASTE 271 Glenwood St. • 476-0516

AUTHENTIC FOODS FROM HIMALAYAN REGION 3210 Dauphin St. • 287-0115 400 Eastern Shore Center • 459-2862

BARBEQUE & MUSIC Bayfront Park Dr. • Daphne • 625-RIBS 701 Springhill Ave. • 410-7427 4672 Airport Blvd. • 300-8516

SATORI COFFEEHOUSE ($)

GUMBO, ANGUS BEEF & BAR 72. S. Royal St. • 432-SCAM (7226)

KAN ZAMAN ($-$$)

MEDITERRANEAN SANDWICH COMPANY ($)

GREAT & QUICK. 3702 Airport Blvd. • 308-2131 274 Dauphin St. • 545-3161 2502 Schillinger Rd. Ste. 2 • 725-0126 6890 US-90 • DAPHNE • 621-2271

MINT HOOKAH BISTRO ($) GREAT MEDITERRANEAN FOOD. 5951 Old Shell Rd. • 450-9191

OLLIE’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL ($-$$) MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT & HOOKAH 1248 Hillcrest St • 634-9820

TAZIKI’S ($-$$)

MEDITERRANEAN CAFE 1539 US HWY 98• 273-3337

FAR EASTERN FARE ANG BAHAY KUBO ($$) 4513 Old Shell Rd.• 473-0007

BAMBOO STEAKHOUSE ($$) SUSHI BAR 650 Cody Rd. S • 300-8383

BANGKOK THAI ($-$$)

DELICIOUS, TRADITIONAL THAI CUISINE 28600 US 98 • Daphne • 626-5286 3821 Airport Blvd. • 344-9995

BANZAI JAPANESE RESTAURANT ($$) TRADITIONAL SUSHI & LUNCH.

QUALITY FOOD, EXCELLENT SERVICE 5045 Cottage Hill Rd. • 607-6454

AMAZING SUSHI & ASSORTMENT OF ROLLS. 661 Dauphin St. • 432-0109

RICE ASIAN GRILL & SUSHI BAR ($) 3964 Gov’t Blvd. • 378-8083

ROCK N ROLL SUSHI ($$)

273 S. McGregor Ave • 287-0445 6345 Airport Blvd. • 287-0555 940 Industrial Pkwy • 308-2158 6850 US HWY 98 • Daphne • 753-4367

SAISHO ($$)

6455 Dauphin St. • 433-0376

STIX ($$)

610240 Eastern Shore Blvd. • 621-9088

TASTE OF THAI ($$)

9091 US-90 Irvington • 957-1414

TOKYO JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE ($$) UPSCALE SUSHI & HIBACHI 364 Azalea Rd. • 343-6622

WASABI SUSHI ($$)

JAPANESE CUISINE 3654 Airport Blvd. S. C • 725-6078

FROM THE DEPTHS BAUDEAN’S ($$)

FRIED, GRILLED, STEAMED & ALWAYS FRESH 3300 River Rd. • 973-9070

THE BLUEGILL ($-$$)

A HISTORIC SEAFOOD DIVE W/ LIVE MUSIC 3775 Hwy. 98 • 625-1998

BONEFISH GRILL ($$)

ECLECTIC DINING & SPACE 6955 Airport Blvd. • 633-7196

BOUDREAUX’S CAJUN GRILL ($-$$) QUALITY CAJUN & NEW ORLEANS CUISINE 29249 US Highway 98 Daphne. • 621-1991

CRAVIN CAJUN/DIP SEAFOOD ($) PO-BOYS, SALADS & SEAFOOD 1870 Dauphin Island Pkwy • 287-1168

ED’S SEAFOOD SHED ($$)

FRIED SEAFOOD SERVED IN HEFTY PORTIONS 3382 Hwy. 98 • 625-1947

FELIX’S FISH CAMP ($$) UPSCALE DINING WITH A VIEW 1420 Hwy. 98 • 626-6710

FISHERMAN’S LEGACY ($) DELI, MARKET AND CATERING. 4380 Halls Mill Rd. • 665-2266

HALF SHELL OYSTER HOUSE ($)

30500 AL-181 • Spanish Fort • 206-8768 3654 Airport Blvd. • 338-9350

LUCY B. GOODE ($$)

GULF COAST CUISINE, REINVENTED 200 E. 25th Ave. • Gulf Shores • 967-5858

LULU’S ($$)

LIVE MUSIC & GREAT SEAFOOD 200 E. 25th Ave. • Gulf Shores • 967-5858

MUDBUGS AT THE LOOP ($) CAJUN KITCHEN & SEAFOOD MARKET 2005 Government St. • 478-9897

RALPH & KACOO’S ($-$$) THE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1595 Battleship Pkwy. • 626-0045

R&R SEAFOOD ($-$$)

LAID-BACK EATERY & FISH MARKET 1477 Battleship Pkwy. • 621-8366

RIVER SHACK ($-$$)

SEAFOOD, BURGERS & STEAKS 6120 Marina Dr. • Dog River • 443-7318.

THE GRAND MARINER ($-$$) LOCAL SEAFOOD & PRODUCE 6036 Rock Point Rd. • 443-5700

THE HARBOR ROOM ($-$$) UNIQUE SEAFOOD 64 S. Water St. • 438-4000

THE SEAFOOD HOUSE ($-$$)

HEROES SPORTS BAR & GRILLE ($) SANDWICHES & COLD BEER 273 Dauphin St. • 433-4376 Hillcrest & Old Shell Rd. • 341-9464

HURRICANE GRILL & WINGS ($-$$) WINGS, SEAFOOD, BURGERS & BEER 7721 Airport Blvd. Suite E-180 • 639-6832

ISLAND WING CO ($)

EVERYTHING BAKED OR GRILLED 2617 Dauphin St. • 476-9464

751 Azalea Rd. • 301-7964

MANCIS ($)

TIN TOP RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR ($$)

MCSHARRY’S IRISH PUB ($)

SEAFOOD, STEAKS, & EXTENSIVE WINE LIST 6232 Bon Secour Hwy County Rd. 10. • 949-5086

WINTZELL’S OYSTER HOUSE ($-$$) FRESH SEAFOOD FOR OVER 75 YEARS 605 Dauphin St. • 432-4605 6700 Airport Blvd. • 341-1111 1208 Shelton Beach Rd. • Saraland • 442-3335 805 S. Mobile St. • 929-2322

IS THE GAME ON?

ASHLAND MIDTOWN PUB ($-$$) PIZZAS, PASTAS, & CALZONES 245-A Old Shell Rd. • 479-3278

BAUMHOWER’S ($)

WINGS, BURGERS & PUB GRUB 6880 US-90 #14 • Daphne • 625-4695

BISHOP’S ($)

A SOUTHERN GRILL & BAR 3673 Airport Blvd. • 344-2131

BUFFALO WILD WINGS ($) BEST WINGS & SPORTING EVENTS 6341 Airport Blvd. • 378-5955

BUTCH CASSIDY’S ($)

FAMOUS BURGERS, SANDWICHES & WINGS 60 N. Florida St. • 450-0690

CALLAGHAN’S IRISH SOCIAL CLUB ($) BURGERS & BEER 916 Charleston St. • 433-9374

1715 Main St. • 375-0543 BRILLIANT REUBENS & FISH-N-CHIPS. 101 N. Brancroft St. Fairhope • 990-5100

MUG SHOTS ($$)

BAR & GRILL 29740 Urgent Care Dr. • Daphne • 662-9639 6255 Airport Blvd. • 447-2514

GRIMALDI’S ($)

ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL ($$)

QUAINT MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5556 Old Shell Rd. • 345-7484

GUIDO’S ($$)

TAMARA’S BAR & GRILL ($)

MARIA BONITA AGAVE BAR & GRILL ($-$$)

Bel Air Mall • 476-2063 FRESH CUISINE NIGHTLY ON MENU 1709 Main St. • Daphne • 626-6082

HOUSE OF PIZZA ($)

3958 Snow Rd C. • Semmes • 645-3400

LA ROSSO ($$)

COMFORT FOOD 1716 Main St. Ste. C • Daphne • 281-2982

MACARONI GRILL ($$)

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GAMBINO BROTHERS ($) HOMEMADE PASTAS & SANDWICHES 873 Hillcrest Ave. • 344-8115

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CUISINE | THE DISH

Expand your world with electric smoke(r) BY ANDY MACDONALD/CUISINE EDITOR | FATMANSQUEEZE@COMCAST.NET

adies and gentlemen, I am here to tell you the latest trend in the MacDonald household is the electric smoker. The traditional smoker I have been using has served its purpose for over a decade. It was exactly as you are imagining it. Rounded off, bullet shaped, I won’t say the brand name but you can narrow that down to two or three. I’ve threatened to purchase some heat-tolerant paint and artistically create my own R2D2 smoker, but I have neither the patience nor the artistic ability to do so. My love affair with my old smoker began about 13 years ago. It’s doubled as a quick-cooking barbecue grill with the charcoal pan at the second level most of the time, but as a smoker it filled the romantic notion of an all-day cooking device that held the heat at the right temperature — that is, if you tended the fire for hours on end. I loved that. I still do. Having a cut of meat that requires attention from sunup to sundown feels a bit caveman, or at the very least pioneer. But yeah, read that last part again. It takes a day’s worth of attention away from you. This is great if you need to get away from the household responsibilities, as in, “Honey, watch the kids all day. I’ve got a brisket and two chickens taking on the hickory.” But we all know that isn’t always plausible. Enter the electric smoker. This is one of God’s inventions that all but does the work for you. It’s indirect heat at its finest, warming the wood chips at a constant temperature for even cooking. There are low, medium and high settings, which is more than you could ever hope for with a plain ol’ fire. Who wants the pains of a flame that is either too hot or too cold? Notice I didn’t say, “just right.” Anything you do with a

WORD OF MOUTH

Butch Cassidy’s introduces Sunday brunch BY ANDY MACDONALD

Of course we know their hamburgers are always vying for the No. 1 spot in this town and their chicken wings are often heralded as the Port City’s favorites, but Butch Cassidy’s is so much more than that. “Build your own” tacos, po’boys and a killer Reuben diversify the menu a bit, but I can’t tell you the last time I saw a change or addition. Now our favorite hole in the wall is offering Sunday brunch. Working with Michelle Estes, Roy and the gang have come up with a brunch menu that should not be missed. Traditional eggs Benedict or crab cakes over fried green

conventional smoker has the tendency to be a draft away from too hot to too cold. My bandmate and ancient friend Kelley McKee and I have a longstanding argument about this. He fancies himself a purist of the barbecue world, but don’t let him fool you. Yes, Kelley is a man of principles when it comes to grilling and smoking, but he’s also lazy as all get out. I’m certain I can convince him Muddy Waters invented electricity and barbecue aficionados from the Mississippi Delta soon followed suit. My eye-opening moment was when everyone’s favorite barrister, Pete Mackey, set forth to buy a new house. It was my good fortune and close proximity to the Mackey home that enabled me to procure the Old Smokey Electric Smoker in the move. Delighted to find not only all of the trays, grills and drip pans intact, the owner’s manual and recipe book were neatly stowed under the lid of this almost-immaculate cooker. My first foray into the world of electric smoking was with a deer ham of fairly good size. No less than 14 pounds, this chunk of venison was sure to take me an entire day just to reach an edible temp. I allotted 10.5 hours (at 45 minutes per pound) beginning on a high setting and then knocked down to a more tolerable medium temperature. Here’s the good part: I didn’t lift a finger. I didn’t add charcoal or wood chips. I didn’t baste or fuss with the meat. But at the 10-hour mark the meat was falling off the bone in the best kind of way. I could shake the knuckle and pick up the pieces. Here is the part that impressed me the most: The flavor that day came from a little more than a handful of wood-

tomatoes sound fantastic, but I guarantee my kids will go for the chicken and waffles. Be on the lookout for cheesy hash brown casserole or fried grits as side items. Saddle up and head on over for some more “soon to be famous” fare, but don’t forget the bloody mary and mimosa specials.

Melting Pot closes (again)

It seemed like such a good idea at the time, but a West Mobile Melting Pot just couldn’t survive. Locking the doors for good on May 7, the restaurant at 840 Montlimar Drive couldn’t pull out of a tailspin after its second opening last July. Originally opened in 2014, Melting Pot version 1.0 lasted about 14 months and holds the record as one of the worst dining experi-

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chips. I didn’t soak them. I used zero charcoal. A little hot plate with a couple of cups of chopped oak (in this case Jack Daniel’s whiskey barrels) was enough to make me look like a pro. I was nervous enough that I invited no one over to try the gamey attempt on the maiden voyage. By the time we started eating, though, I called in Rob and anyone else available for the giant feast. The kids were crazy about it and it all seemed a great success. Yes, the deer meat was perfect. Succulent. Tender. But what really caught the attention of Lucas and Graham was everything else we smoked. While the bottom grill was busy smoking a venison ham, most of the daylight hours the top grill was purposed for the side items in the last couple of hours of cooking. With a tightly fitting lid we were able to smoke a whole onion half-wrapped in aluminum foil, several large carrots (washed but not peeled), a sizable bowl of

HERE IS THE PART THAT IMPRESSED ME THE MOST: THE FLAVOR THAT DAY CAME FROM A LITTLE MORE THAN A HANDFUL OF WOODCHIPS. I DIDN’T SOAK THEM. I USED ZERO CHARCOAL. A LITTLE HOT PLATE WITH A COUPLE OF CUPS OF CHOPPED OAK (IN THIS CASE JACK DANIEL’S WHISKEY BARRELS) WAS ENOUGH TO MAKE ME LOOK LIKE A PRO. ” new potatoes and four ears of sweet corn. I don’t recall ever having smoked corn or potatoes but everything on here was worth me writing about. Just today Graham remarked, “Those carrots are the best I’ve ever had.” High praise. In his 7 years he has had a massive amount of carrots. It’s given him vision that is unmatched. If you don’t believe me, just challenge him to a game of “Where’s Waldo.” So tonight, here is where we stand. We are roughly halfway to the Thanksgiving mark in the 2017 calendar year. I’m making a quick rough draft of my favorite holiday with two chickens (in a brine as we speak) and all the trimmings, including dressing and casseroles. The electric smoker will be used to its full potential as a warm up for November’s festivities. Chickens, carrots, tomatoes and other rabbit food will be exposed to the moderately low temps of the Old Smokey while the dressing hits the oven. I can’t believe how easy this is! Pete, thanks for lending me the smoker. If you want it back, you may have to pry it from my cold, smoky, dead hands.

ences I’ve had. After shutting down the first time we saw a much more promising second coming, but even that couldn’t last despite improvements. Most of the complaints I’ve heard were the sheer confusion of the menu, the absence of Gulf shrimp, the time it took to get in and out, and the price. Maybe simpler is better. At least this time the employees weren’t locked out in the middle of the holidays. That may not soften the blow. After a double-dip there will not be a third attempt.

Pirate’s Cove’s annual FUNraiser

Rumor has it Jimmy Buffett might have written the song “Cheeseburger in Paradise” after tasting the fantastic burger from

Pirate’s Cove. That is very plausible, as it is one of my favorites. The little slice of paradise in Lillian is gearing up for its annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser Friday, June 2, through Sunday, June 4. The 2017 calendar marks the 11th year of this amazing event complete with live music, amazing food, silent auctions and not one but two 2017 4X4 Jeep draw downs! More than 200 businesses have donated services and products ranging from spa gift certificates and movie passes to fishing equipment and artwork. Eat to your heart’s content and soak up the scenery at one of the most beautiful spots on our coastline. Don’t forget the legendary cheeseburgers and bushwackers! Recycle!

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CUISINE | THE BEER PROFESSOR

White-out! Give Belgian witbier a try BY TOM WARD/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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Mill City White is a traditional Belgian-style witbier brewed with fresh cracked coriander and Curaçao.

elgium is home to a long brewing tradition, some of the While Blue Moon produces the most ubiquitous white beer in world’s best beers and several unique styles — from sour the U.S., many small craft brewers, and some large beer makers lambics and dry saisons, to malty Flanders brown ales and as well, have developed their own take on the Belgian standard. heavy Trappists. A number of American brewers have taken Shock Top, an Anheuser-Busch brand, puts out a version of a to crafting their own versions of many traditional Belgian styles, Belgian white ale that has more spice flavor and less orange taste one of the most popular being witbier, or white beer. than does Blue Moon’s style, but otherwise is pretty similar. It is Witbier is a style dating from the Middle available in bottles throughout our area. Ages, but it had virtually died out in Belgium Harpoon Brewing, one of the oldest and before being revived in the 1960s. Brewed largest independent craft breweries in the with unmalted wheat and usually flavored U.S., puts out an excellent white ale. Located with fruit (traditionally orange peel) and in Boston and Vermont, only Harpoon’s flagA NUMBER OF AMERICAN spices, such as coriander, it is unfiltered, givship IPA is widely available in the Mobile ing the beer a very cloudy — or white — aparea, but I have found its UFO White in the BREWERS HAVE TAKEN pearance from the yeast floating in it. Witbier single-bottle section at a couple of grocery TO CRAFTING THEIR OWN is often highly carbonated. Despite the cloudy stores. It is light, with just hints of orange, look, witbiers are not heavy, and have a modnot an overpowering fruit taste like the Blue VERSIONS OF MANY erate ABV, usually around 5 percent. Moon. Birmingham’s Avondale Brewing Co. TRADITIONAL BELGIAN The best known, and best selling, white ale also puts out a witbier, Mill City White, which in the United States is Blue Moon’s Belgian is also defiantly worth a try if you can find it. STYLES, ONE OF THE MOST White. Found almost everywhere. Even if Finally, the last witbier I sampled was one POPULAR BEING WITBIER, you’ve never tried a Blue Moon, you’ve probI have recently seen all over our area — in ably seen someone drinking it at your favorite bars and stores, on tap and in bottles — but OR WHITE BEER. watering hole, served as hazy beer with an had never even heard of until a couple of orange slice garnishing the top of the glass, months ago. Einstök’s white ale is brewed in which has become a sort of trademark with Akureyri, Iceland (Iceland!), 60 miles south Blue Moon, a practice that borrows from the accessorizing of witof the Arctic Circle. Never having tried an Icelandic brew before, I bier in Belgium with a lemon. A subsidiary of Coors Brewing Co., was intrigued, and found it very different from the other white ales Blue Moon’s flagship ale was first developed in the microbrewery I tried — lighter in color, not as cloudy, almost like a pilsner, but at Denver’s Coors’ Field. Its light, citrusy flavor (it has much more with some nice hints of fruit and spices. It was excellent. orange taste to it than most white ales), was a hit at the Rockies’ So, as the weather heats up, consider trying a light witbier this baseball games and the brand took off. summer. Skál!

Photo | Avondale Brewing Co.

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COVER STORY

Out here: A new kind of conservationist JASON JOHNSON/REPORTER

ome of Mobile’s most ecologically diverse to make them marketable to the companies that will be areas are tucked away beyond the buffers of handling millions of dollars’ worth of restoration projects some of its most urban communities — hidden along the Gulf Coast for years to come. marshlands, rich with plant and animal life, in “The idea was to give these kids six months of hard areas throughout the Three Mile Creek watershed. work and on-the-job training with some marketable skills In a restoration economy like the one developing lothat might position them for employment in a restoracally from a steady trickle of BP oil spill money, wetland tion economy, and since Deepwater Horizon, there is a areas like these can have a financial value as well. Yet restoration economy,” MBNEP Watershed Protection many believe there is a disconnect between that ecosysCoordinator Tom Herder said. “We’re doing management tem and the residents who live only a few feet away. plans for 31 watersheds that have tidal influence, and Now, a multifaceted grant program is working to all those are going to recommend projects and funding connect young adults from predominantly African-Amermechanisms to pay for them.” ican neighborhoods to the ecosystem and the potential Over the next 15 years, $725 million of BP money economy quietly growing in their own backyards. will be allocated to projects in Mobile and Baldwin “Through the Gulf [RESTORE Act], there are gocounties through the RESTORE Act. “The iron’s hot,” ing to be numerous jobs and career opportunities, but Herder said, for those looking to make a career in invaunfortunately many African-Americans and minorities sive species removal, shoreline stabilization and marsh in low-income communities just aren’t being exposed creation. to those,” Michael Pierce, execuAfter existing as an idea for sevtive director of the Martin Luther eral months, the Coastal Alabama King Jr. Avenue Redevelopment Conservation and Resiliency Corps Corporation, said. “We wanted to found its funding in a $250,000 get involved to show them the value matching grant from the National of those things, which is something Fish and Wildlife Foundation. It that’s never been done.” was secured through a Mobile Bay OVER THE NEXT 15 When MLKARC began kicking National Estuary Program partnerYEARS, $725 MILLION OF ship with MLKARC and the Student around those ideas with staff at the Mobile Bay National Estuary ProConservation Association. BP MONEY WILL BE ALgram, they identified a number of The SCA, a nonprofit that aims to unmet needs in those communities. find the “next generation of conserLOCATED TO PROJECTS More importantly, they potentially vationists,” contributed an additional IN MOBILE AND BALDWIN $100,000 to the program, though it’s identified a common solution. Young people need to be better managing the organizational COUNTIES THROUGH THE also connected to environmental asinfrastructure and the activities of sets in their own neighborhoods, the local Corps members through its RESTORE ACT. they need to develop marketable two program’s leaders. employment skills and, in some While SCA has been involved in cases, they just need a job. Thus, similar programs in other regions, the Coastal Alabama Conservation and Resiliency Corps Pierce said Mobile’s is unique because it’s specifically was born. targeting “an urban environment” and “low- to medianincome communities,” calling the pilot program “the first First of its kind of its kind in the country.” The Corps consists of 10 young adults, ages 18-25, “It’s important young people understand there are from areas such as Prichard, Orange Grove, Theodore, multiple career pathways out there, not just ones we Happy Hill, Down the Bay and Moffett Road. All of the typically think about — doctor, lawyer, teacher, athlete,” members are African-American, and though their levels Pierce said. “Those are great, but there’s others that of outdoor experience vary, none was directly involved sometimes don’t immediately come to mind — forestwith any environmental work prior to joining the Corps. ers, engineers, the people who study and protect our In February, the group went through intensive training environment. Generally, in minority communities — and and since then has been doing hands-on restoration work particularly in the African-American community — I — developing the professional and specialized skills

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don’t see many working in those fields, and I would assume that’s more than likely due to a lack of exposure.” Since the program started in February, a typical work week has included four eight-hour days “in the field” developing skills on the job and one spent on training for coastal resource management, professional skills and speaking skills that have already been utilized to carry a message of sound environmental stewardship into local classrooms. From a participant’s standpoint, being in the Corps might seem like any other temporary job or paid internship at first — a $10-an-hour gig with benefits that may or may not lead to a career opportunity down the road. But for Murphy High School graduate Claudia Washington the Corps has been more than a temporary job. It’s been a learning experience and a glimpse at a side of the Port City few trek through the mud far enough to see, at least not where she grew up. “This is my first time really getting out into the wetlands, but I’ve always loved being in the woods,” Washington said, swabbing a freshly cut popcorn tree with herbicide. “I know a lot of people who don’t know all this is right here. It’s funny. I’ll post things on Snapchat and people will ask, ‘Are you even in Mobile?’” Though the group’s day-to-day activities can vary, they’ve primarily focused on the removal of invasive, non-native plant species within the Three Mile Creek watershed — a waterway for which MBNEP has already generated a management plan and where the city of Mobile this week broke ground on a greenway corridor. One work site, at the end of Maple Street, is on city property while another, farther down the waterway, is privately owned by Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson. Along with a majority of the watershed, the areas surrounding the creek have become severely overgrown with privet, elephant ears and Chinese tallow, often referred to as “popcorn trees.” “These non-native species were introduced, and with rapid reproductive abilities and lacking natural grazers, they spread incredibly fast, frequently ‘squeezing out’ the native species on which local birds, wildlife and fish depend,” Herder said. “Acres of wetlands and thousands of popcorn trees, privet and taro have already been eliminated.” More specifically, the Corps had killed 23,723 invasive plants as of May 8, though more are poised to meet a similar fate before the program concludes in July. However, the Corps is not only destroying plants. It has also planted pine trees in the floodplains of restored streams, undertaken drainage improvements in the Toulmin’s Spring Branch subwatershed and planted native vegetation to create marsh habitat on the northern tips of Mon Louis Island on the tail end of a $3.34 million restoration project.

Building trust, developing skills

Before any of the participants started working in the field, all of the members went through a nine-day intensive training session in Florida. Under the direction of SCA team leaders Alison Brown and Randal Weamer, the members of the Corps undertook training and received certifications in chainsaw operation, prescribed fire, wilderness, basic first aid, CPR and canoeing — all of which should make them more valuable to contractors looking to hire people for similar projects in the future. Working in the South Alabama heat in knee-deep mud with 10 strangers would test anyone’s patience, but add in potentially dangerous tools, terrain, snakes and alligators, and building trust in your co-workers becomes paramount. “I think after the training we all sort of developed this level of trust, to where it’s like, ‘I can trust this dude with a chainsaw or using a hatchet,’” Charleston Ingram said. “We just all sort of learned to work as a team, and we got a sort of efficiency about us that kind of naturally developed.”

COVER STORY That efficiency was no accident. Brown and Weamer both said despite an initial learning curve, the majority of the group has continuously improved and most members quickly gravitated toward an aspect of the job fitting their particular skill sets. “At first we let them do what they were comfortable with and then tried to build on that, but we also tried to encourage them to mix things up,” Weamer said. “That way they’re prepared for any other job in the future where they’d need to be adept at a wide range of skills.” While those specific skills include things like plant identification, pesticide application and wilderness navigation, through CSA the Corps has also covered team building, conflict resolution and diversity training, all of which could be beneficial in any field. For some of the younger members of the group with little to no work experience, landing their first job in a structured setting has been beneficial in its own way. Ingram, who attended Davidson High School before graduating through a homeschool program in 2016, said he’s had a lot of struggles with anxiety and was initially nervous about how he’d interact with his co-workers. “Once I had a chance to actually get to know everybody, I started to understand more of where I fit in with people, and that’s kind of helped me with my anxiety overall in a sense,” Ingram said. “Honestly, this job has changed me for the better because it lets me work on myself every day.” When the program ends in July, Pierce said MLKARC would “without question” remain committed to helping any members of the Corps looking for work in a related restoration field make the necessary connections, adding SCA and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation have made similar pledges.

Passing the torch

Aside from the actual hands-on work, another component of the program has focused on educating younger generations about the local environment and the issues surrounding it. To do that, members of the Corps have been speaking to sixth graders in Mobile County Public Schools. Just last week, Kenneth White, one of the oldest members of the Corps, returned to his alma mater with Eric Lucas to speak with sixth graders at Mobile County Training School about the work they’ve done with the Corps over the past two months. Asked about his presentation, White said he was “just talking about the watershed, trash

and littering.” “It was really good,” he added. “They listened.” While the outreach to the local schools gave participants a tangible reason to focus on soft skills such as public speaking and project presentation, it was also central to the mission of the grant funding the Corps to begin with. Pierce also said he believes having members with similar backgrounds deliver the message of environmental stewardship has had a greater impact on students because it allows them to better see themselves. “I think it adds a layer of believability or credibility when you see someone who looks like you or who maybe has walked in your shoes,” he added. “It says, ‘If they can achieve that goal, then I can too,’ and that gives them something to aspire to and to attain.” Members’ plans for the future are varied. Some aim to continue their education, others have old jobs waiting for them. Some, however, do plan to take up the program’s offer to help them find work on similar environmental projects down the road. One of those is Kevin Kidd. “I’ve always been kind of an outdoor guy, and I was counselor at summer camp for a few years,” Kidd said. “I wasn’t really environmentally conscious, but I’m used to being outside.” The exact future of the Corps program, however, is still up in the air, even though the majority of stakeholders remain supportive of the pilot program. Brown said part of her and Reamer’s job once the members leave is to compile data and evaluate ways the pilot program could be more effective and sustainable for CSA going forward. Locally, though, the Conservation Corps requires money, and even with CSA’s $100,000 and local contributions from Alabama Power, the Crampton Trust and a handful of local politicos, MBNEP is still shy of the nonfederal funds needed to match NFWF’s grant. Herder said grant proposals are in the works to secure the rest of the funding for the pilot, but with the MBNEP staff already stretched thin developing dozens of watershed management plans, it’s unclear what role MBNEP might have. However, Herder did say The Nature Conservancy, a frequent partner of MBNEP, is already looking into grants that could make conservation corps a sustainable entity in Mobile. “We recognize the value of it and we want this to be ongoing, but we’re doing so much else, too,” he added. “It would great if Nature Conservancy could find the funding to provide the infrastructure to sustain this going forward because this is the time. The iron’s hot.”

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wo years ago, the Azalea City got its first glimpse of Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet as the band rapidly established a dedicated fan base. Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet’s style is a grab-bag of goodness. From slow modern rock anthems to catchy rhythm and blues-influenced grooves, the band’s fans cannot seem to get enough of their music. By the end of the month, the local band will reveal its first batch of studio material in the form of two new albums. For guitarist/ vocalist Mike Jernigan, this twofold professionally recorded and manufactured debut provides a great deal of satisfaction for a musician who in the past has taken a DIY approach to album production and distribution. “For me, it feels really good to have those albums out,” Jernigan said. “I’ve put out records before, but it’s been a situation where you just burn copies off the computer and put a sticker on it.” Keep in mind the group is not talking about a traditional double album. Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet’s studio debut will consist of two albums, “The Great Room” and “Somebody Else’s Dream.” As far as the local (and national) music scene is concerned, this type of move is quite unorthodox, but the band felt it was necessary. As the group pulled tracks together, along with producer/engineer Rick Hirsch, the members tried to narrow the vast amount of material to just 10 songs. However, the band kept finding itself falling into new songs during time spent at Hirsch’s Studio H2O. “We would start jamming in between takes, and Rick would say, ‘Hey! What’s that?’” guitarist Jeremy Ault said. “We ended up with so much stuff that we didn’t know how to choose. We just separated them the best that we could and decided to do two albums. When we were deciding on which songs to cut, Rick said he liked them all. So, we decided to just do them all.”

MUSIC

BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR/SCENTANNI@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM

FEATURE

Double dose from Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet

Photo Edward McGrath/Imogene Theater | Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet

According to the band, Hirsch has been instrumental in the creation of both albums. Jernigan and bassist Gabriel Willis first encountered Hirsch when the two sat in with Deluxe Trio at one of its formerly weekly gigs at Callaghan’s. After hearing a couple of songs from Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet, Hirsch invited the band to visit Studio H2O. While he’d heard of Hirsch, Jernigan admits he was not well-versed in the legendary Azalea City musician’s background, which includes runs with Wet Willie, Gregg Allman, Joan Armatrading and Billy Vera & the Beaters. Willis says Hirsch’s studio emitted a positivity from which the band knew it could benefit. “He invited us over to check out the house and listen to stuff he had recorded there,” Willis said. “It just felt right from the get-go. We walked in there, and it felt like the right place to record the album.” “When he was talking to us about our songs, he seemed to be the most genuine,” added Jernigan. “He genuinely liked the tunes. He’d listen to the song. He didn’t talk to us just about recording them. He talked to us about the music itself. I was impressed with that.” The band has endless praise for Hirsch’s knowledge of music and recording, which come from what Jernigan says is his “decades of experience and a good ear.” Jernigan also says Hirsch was vocal with his opinions on song arrangements, not hesitating to offer input on whether vocals or instrumentation were needed. Hirsch even brought in his longtime friend Red Young (Eric Burdon & the Animals, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy) to lay down tracks with his Hammond B3. For Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet, Hirsch proved to be the perfect engineer/producer for this debut studio venture. “Everything that you would expect a good producer to do, he did,” Jernigan said. “He was always trying to find a way to improve the song. If something didn’t need to be there, he took it away, which is a big deal too sometimes. He guided it along with experience and a good ear.” Hirsch also helped the band through the track selection process for both albums. One aspect of a good album is a consistent flow, and with 21 recorded tracks to divide into two albums, Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet found this was the most challenging part. According to Ault, this task consisted of “a

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lot of meetings and Skype sessions.” Jernigan said the band’s versatile sound forced it to really analyze the tracks and make sure each song flowed well into the next, in spite of what genre each track reflected. “There was a lot of restructuring and burning the albums in different orders with different songs until we found something that sort of felt like it flowed for each album,” Willis said. “There was a lot of back and forth on that.” “We felt like we had it a couple of times” Jernigan added. “We were like, ‘This is it.’ Then, we would end up being like, ‘Well, maybe this one would do better here.’ I don’t know if the order that we ended up with is better than the others. After listening to it, I think it sounds good the way it is.” This two-album debut will not be available for public consumption until the release party at

activities, whether in the woods or at the beach. While “Somebody Else’s Dream” exists within the same world as its companion release, this album tends to slide into a different dimension at points. “Somebody Else’s Dream” lives up to its name, with its ethereal ambient overtones. The opening title track slides the listener into a psychedelic world beyond sleep before dropping into the bouncing acoustic of “I Feel Afraid.” While the album includes its share of heartfelt anthems, Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet leans more into the rock world with this one. Live interpretations of tracks such as “Angels & Lies,” “Be My Monday” and “You Like It” could result in free-wheeling jams for their audiences. Keyboardist Jacob Hall marks “Somebody Else’s Dream” as his favorite. “The intro from start to finish, it’s a powerhouse of good, strong writing, good hooks and good sounds,” Hall said.

There was a lot of restructuring and burning the albums in different orders with different songs until we found something that sort of felt like it flowed for each album.

Callaghan’s Irish Social Club on Sunday, May 28. However, Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet graciously gave Lagniappe full copies of both albums. Initially, both albums maintain a consistent warmth. They also lack the musical redundancy one might expect from a band attempting such a feat for a debut effort. However, Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet did an excellent job of establishing individual personalities for both albums. The production aspect of “The Great Room” provides a pristine, straightforward delivery of its 10 tracks. There are beautifully gentle rock and soul anthems, such as “Pittsburgh” and “Get Me Right.” The group establishes a foundation of acoustic guitar and honest lyrics for the tracks “Old House” and “Niceville.” Overall, “The Great Room” should be a perfect companion for this summer’s outdoor

As far as the rest of the band is concerned, naming a favorite is not that easy. Jernigan poetically likens these releases to one’s own children, both equally loved. Willis says his favorite depends on the listening environment; he likes “The Great Room” when traveling in his car and “Somebody Else’s Dream” when he is on his couch. Ault embraces “The Great Room” because, he says, the tracks are “fun to listen to.” However, drummer Ethan Snedigar reflects the band’s overall opinion of its two-album debut, with which those experiencing these releases for the first time might agree. “In all honesty, I think of them as one body of work,” Snedigar said. “If you listen to one, then you have to listen to the other. They were all made around the same time and complement each other very well.”

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MUSIC BRIEFS

Who’s the ‘Boss’

BY STEPHEN CENTANNI/MUSIC EDITOR/SCENTANNI@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM

Band: Flow Tribe Date: Saturday, May 13, 7:30 p.m. Venue: Callaghan’s Irish Social Club, 916 Charleston St., www.callaghansirishsocialclub.com Tickets: $10 at the door

Photo | Facebook | Flow Tribe

hile Callaghan’s is known for hosting an ongoing lineup of up-and-coming, modern-day troubadours, this neighborhood pub/venue is also known for bringing in some of the most charismatic bands on tour. New Orleans outfit Flow Tribe fits into that category. Flow Tribe’s energetic mix of funk, rhythm and blues, and hip-hop fills the corner of Charleston and Marine with a throng of dancing patrons. On this visit, the band will be giving fans a taste of its latest release, “Boss,” which is currently available at live shows and through a variety of distribution outlets. Flow Tribe tapped Mannie Fresh to produce this album. Fresh is best known for his work with Cash Money Records and the hip-hop powerhouse Big Tymers. From the first track, “Boss” establishes its overall vibe with smooth grooves accented by bright horns and thoughtful guitar work. No matter the meter, Flow Tribe does an excellent job of capturing the energy of its live performances. One of the most impressive aspects of “Boss” is its cross-demographical content. The tracks on this release could be appreciated by fans of modern pop, R&B and New Orleans funk and soul.

Happy birthday

Band: 2nd anniversary Shindig Date: Friday, May 12, 8:30 p.m. Venue: The Listening Room of Mobile, 78 St. Francis St., www.thelisteningroommobile.com Tickets: $20 artist donation at the door

The Listening Room of Mobile is celebrating two years of providing a clean music experience to local music lovers. When this quaint venue opened its doors, many fell in love with both its featured artists and its living room vibe. Since then, The Listening Room Mobile has expanded its repertoire from exclusive “unplugged” shows to full-band experiences. This celebration will return the audience to the venue’s roots, with performances from three singer-songwriters armed with acoustic guitars and life experience. Local singer-songwriter Abe Partridge has spent the past couple of years establishing his reputation in the Azalea City, and will bring his beautifully raw, unfiltered style to this celebration. From Muscle Shoals to Down Under, local artist Eric Erdman has used his catchy lyrics to establish a worldwide audience. Also ringing in The Listening Room Mobile’s third year will be New Orleans artist Esther Rose. With nods to the early days of folk, country and rock, Rose’s mastery of sonic versatility is her greatest asset.

Still smokin’

Band: Smokey Robinson Date: Saturday, May 13, 8 p.m. Venue: Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, 875 Beach Blvd., www.beaurivage.com Tickets: $59.95-$75.95, available through Ticketmaster

Singer-songwriter and record producer Smokey Robinson, 77, will take his Biloxi audience on a musical tour through modern music history. Robinson’s legacy begins with Motown legends The Miracles, who ruled the airwaves during the ‘60s with hits such as “Shop Around,” “Tracks of My Tears” and “Tears of a Clown.” As the ‘70s arrived, Robinson began working on a successful solo career, maintaining his audience with the singles “Baby That’s Backatcha” and “Cruisin’.” Thanks to ‘80s hits “Being with You” and “Just to See Her,” his acclaim as a solo artist continued. Throughout his 50 years of making music, Robinson has inspired a number of artists ranging from The Beatles to The Rolling Stones, both of which covered his songs. Bob Dylan even named him America’s “greatest living poet.” In addition, Robinson’s satiny vocal work has earned him multiple Grammys as well as awards from BET and Soul Train.

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AREAMUSIC LISTINGS | May 11 - May 17

THUR. MAY 11

Bluegill— Les Hall Duo Blues Tavern— Little Delta Duo Callaghan’s— Bobby Butchka Cockeyed Charlie’s— JJ Dority’s Bar and Grill— Ryan Balthrop Felix’s— Soulshine Trio Flora Bama— Christina Christian, 2p// David Dunn, 5p/// Dueling Pianos, 5:30p//// Mark Sherrill, James Daniel, Chris Newbury, 6p//// Whyte Caps, 10p//// Logan Spicer and Tony Ray Thompson, 10:15p Listening Room— Avi Jacob ft. Emily Sholes Smith Lulu’s— Adam Holt, 5p Manci’s— Sean Carter McSharry’s— Rondale and the Kit Katz, 7p Old 27 Grill— Two Suzy’s, 6p Wind Creek Casino— Michael Stacey, 8p

FRI. MAY 12

Alchemy— Star Wars: The Tease Awakens, 10p All Sports Bar & Billiards— DJ Markie Mark, 10p Big Beach Brewing— Broken Down Car, 6:30p Blind Mule— A Sunday Fire and Guest Bluegill— Quintin Berry, 12p// Blind Dog Mike, 6p Blues Tavern— Johnny No Cockeyed Charlie’s— Mother Mojo, 10p Dority’s Bar and Grill— May Neese Duo Felix’s— Grits N Pieces Flora Bama— Jay Hawkins Duo, 1p// Lea Anne Creswell Duo, 2p/// Mason Henderson, 4p//// Logan Spicer and Sexual Biscuits, 5:30p//// Brandon White, 6p//// Johnny Barbato Trio, 6p//// Zachery Diedrich Band, 6p//// Brittany Grimes, 9p//// Ja’Rhythm, 10p//// The Magic Johnsons, 10:15p//// Brian Hill Band, 10:30p Hangout— Jamell Richardson Hard Rock (Center Bar) — Contraflow, 9:30p IP Casino— Bill Engvall, 8p Listening Room— Eric Erdman, Abe Partridge and Esther Roe, 8p Lulu’s— JERI, 5p Main Street Cigar Lounge— The Memorys, 8p Manci’s— Category 4 McSharry’s— DJ Lewis, 10p Moe’s BBQ (Daphne) —

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5:50 Express, 8p Moe’s BBQ (Foley) — Brittney Bell, 6p Moe’s BBQ (Mobile) — This Side of 49 O’Daly’s— Gene Murrell, Tony Edwards and David White, 10p Old 27 Grill— Them Again, 6:30p Soul Kitchen— Digital Awakening ft. Hyphee, Panda Panax and DJ Krave, 10p Traders— Lizards Reunion Wind Creek Casino— Mustang Sally, 9p Windmill Market— Wolf/Gambino Trio, 11:30a

SAT. MAY 13

Beau Rivage— Smokey Robinson, 8p Big Beach Brewing— Retrobution, 6:30p Bluegill— Brandon Bailey, 12p// DOTC Duo, 6p Blues Tavern— Mark Welborn Band Callaghan’s— Flow Tribe Cockeyed Charlie’s— Jordan Bramblett Dority’s Bar and Grill— Joey Abruscato Trio Fairhope Brewing— Grayson Capps and Corky Hughes Felix’s— Blind Dog Mike Flora Bama— Brian Hill, 1p// Jay Hawkins Trio, 1p/// Lea Anne Creswell Trio, 2p//// Newbury Syndicate, 2p//// Lefty Collins, 4p//// Christina Christian, 5p//// Big Muddy, 5:30p//// Jezebel’s Chill’n, 6p//// Oliver’s Twist, 6p//// Zachery Diedrich, 9p//// Josh Buckley Band, 10p//// Mario Mena Trio, 10:15p//// Hung Jury, 10:30p Hangout— Jamell Richardson Hard Rock (Center Bar) — Contraflow, 9:30p Listening Room— Sugarcane Jane, 8p Lulu’s— Alvarado Road Show, 5p Manci’s— Chris Powell McSharry’s— DJ Tiger, 10p Moe’s BBQ (Daphne) — Matt and Sherry Neese, 5p Moe’s BBQ (Foley) — Nick Peraino Moe’s BBQ (Mobile) — Rock Bottom Duo Old 27 Grill— Lonesome Mel, 6:30p Pirates Cove— Stickeebunz, 5p Saenger— Pictures at an Exhibition Top of the Bay— Philo Traders— Fish Wyfe Wind Creek Casino— Mustang Sally, 9p

SUN. MAY 14

Bluegill— Bobby Butchka, 12p// Modern Eldorados, 6p Blues Tavern— John Hall Trio Callaghan’s— Lisa Mills Dority’s Bar and Grill— Bust Felix’s— Brandon Bailey Flora Bama— Logan Spicer Duo, 12p// Foxy Iguanas, 1p/// Songs of Rusty, 1:30p//// Al and Cathy, 2p//// David Dunn, 2p//// Mel Knapp, 5p//// Jezebel’s Chill’n, 5:30p//// Josh Buckley Band, 6p//// Perdido Brothers, 6p//// Lee Yankie and the Hellz Yeah, 10p//// Alabama Lighting, 10:15p Lulu’s— Alvarado Road Show, 5p McSharry’s— Trad Irish Session, 6:30p Old 27 Grill— Lisa Zanghi, 11:30a Saenger— Pictures at an Exhibition

MON. MAY 15

Callaghan’s— Hannah McFarland and Friends Felix’s— Jamie Anderson Flora Bama— Founders and Friends, 2p// Tim Kinsey, 5:30p/// Cathy Pace, 6p//// Hung Jury, 10p//// Petty and Pace, 10:15p Lulu’s— Brent Burns, 5p Old 27 Grill— Marty McIntosh, 6p

TUE. MAY 16

Bluegill— Mobile Big Band Society Cockeyed Charlie’s— Jordan Bramblett Felix’s— Lee Yankie Flora Bama— T. Bone Montgomery, 2p// Jay Hawkins Duo, 5:30p/// Perdido Brothers, 6p//// Tyler Mac, 10p//// Logan Spicer and Tony Ray Thompson, 10:15p Lulu’s— Ronnie Presley, 5p Moe’s BBQ (Mobile) — Denver Hawsey, 6p

WED. MAY 17

Blind Mule— Out Last the End w/ Falling 4 Insanity and Wired for Havoc Bluegill— Les Hall Callaghan’s— Phil and Foster Felix’s— Tropic Flyer Flora Bama— Neil Dover, 2p// Al and Cathy, 5:30p/// Rhonda Hart and Jonathan Newton, 6p//// Ja’Rhythm, 10p//// Zachery Diedrich Duo, 10:15p Lulu’s— Justin Yawn, 5p

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‘Masterminds’ more like ‘Lamebrains’

FILMTHE REEL WORLD

BY ASIA FREY/FILM CRITIC/AFREY@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM

AREA THEATERS CARMIKE CINEMA’S Wynnsong 16 785 Schillinger Rd. S. (251) 639-7373 CRESCENT THEATER 208 Dauphin Street (251) 438-2005 HOLLYWOOD STADIUM 18 1250 Satchel Paige Dr. (251) 473-9655

he masterminds behind “Masterminds” somehow could not take the comedy potential of Kristen Wiig, Zach Galifianakis and Owen Wilson and the directorial abilities of Jared Hess (“Napoleon Dynamite,”) and manage to make a film that is watchable. Based on a true story of a lucrative heist carried out by a group of buffoons, this joyless misadventure tried so hard, and failed so utterly, to create quirky characters that I was left not just unamused, but existentially adrift. It was more than just a waste of time. Why? I asked myself. Why did I elect to watch this film? How did it even get made? Why would anyone read the script and agree to be in it? If this movie got made, why don’t we all write a movie? What is the point, in the end, of anything? If a great film can restore your faith in humanity, this film left me despairing of man’s role in the universe. There are plenty of great yet stupid comedies out there; this just isn’t one of them. Galifianakis plays David Ghantt, an armored-car driver with a ludicrous

haircut, engaged to one woman but pining for his work crush, Kelly (Wiig.) When her loser pal Steve (Owen Wilson) realizes an opportunity to manipulate the doofus who has a key to the cash, they tempt the lovelorn David into stealing $17 million. Steve is careful to hide his identity, calling himself “Gepetto,” and David takes all the risk. He makes off with the cash but, crucially, only two of three security tapes. In one of the film’s funnier moments, David dons a disguise that includes cateye contact lenses and escapes to Mexico with a very small portion of the cash. There were, in fact, some laughs in the movie — some outrageous car chases and other physical slapstick moments that I’m not too snooty to laugh at. Where it fails is the characters. Attempting to strike a balance between warmth and the grotesque, I am here to tell you that the scales tip very, very far into the grotesque. Attempts to bring a quality of sympathy to the story only serve to highlight the cartoonish horrors. Kelly sees the error of her ways and begins to care for David; a hitman turns

into a friend through a very unlikely coincidence. If these events were supposed to elevate a gross comedy, they failed. Better to just keep hitting people in the crotch. The most interesting aspect of “Masterminds” is it is actually based on a true story. The real David Ghantt consulted on the film, and seems to actually have a weird redneck Prince Valiant haircut in real life. The simpletons really did blow an insane amount of cash on new cars and houses, alerting the suspicions of the FBI, and an unskilled hitman was dispatched to Mexico to rub out Ghantt. I made the mistake of watching “Masterminds” because the cast looked funny, but they were just funny-looking. It was their weak attempts at “characters” that sunk this film. Like an undercooked sketch show, everyone tried to look as stupid as possible, and I guess they succeeded individually in looking ridiculous. It just wasn’t funny, and it certainly wasn’t clever. There are plenty of weirder, grosser or better-written comedies out there. “Masterminds” is currently available to rent.

RAVE MOTION PICTURE JUBILEE SQUARE 12 6898 U.S. 90 Daphne, (251) 626- 6266 CARMIKE CINEMAS 23151 Wharf Ln. Orange Beach (251) 981-4444

Photos | Glen Wilson / Daniel Smith

FROM LEFT: Based on the October 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery, “Masterminds” is the story of a guard

COBB at an armored car company who organizes one of the biggest bank heists in American history. From THEATRES director Guy Ritchie, “King Arthur” finds the young Arthur running the back passages of Londinium PINNACLE 14 with his crew, not knowing his royal lineage until he grabs Excalibur. 3780 Gulf Shores THE PROMISE NEW IN THEATERS NOW PLAYING Pkwy Gulf AMC Jubilee Square 12, AMC Mobile 16 GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY, VOL. 2 Shores KING ARTHUR: LOGAN All listed multiplex theaters. (251) 968-7444 LEGEND OF THE SWORD Regal Mobile Stadium 18, AMC Classic Wharf EASTERN SHORE PREMIERE CINEMA 14 30500 Alabama 181 #500 Spanish Fort, Al (251) 626-0352 Information accurate at press time; please call theaters for showtimes.

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Guy Ritchie directs Jude Law and Charlie Hunnam in a stylish version of the story of a fateful sword in a stone. All listed multiplex theaters.

BAAHUBALI 2: THE CONCLUSION AMC Mobile 16, Regal Mobile Stadium 18

SNATCHED

THE CIRCLE All listed multiplex theaters.

Goldie Hawn and Amy Schumer star as a cautious mother and her wild daughter who take an exotic vacation together. They must work through their differences to survive. Crescent Theater, all listed multiplex theaters.

THE WALL

Two American Soldiers are trapped by a lethal sniper, with only an unsteady wall between them. AMC Mobile 16

THE ZOOKEEPER’S WIFE AMC Mobile 16, AMC Jubilee Square 12, AMC Classic Wharf

THE GHOST IN THE SHELL AMC Classic Wharf PHOENIX FORGOTTEN AMC Mobile 16, AMC Jubilee Square 12 GIFTED AMC Jubilee Square 12, AMC Mobile 16, Regal Mobile Stadium 18 UNFORGETTABLE All listed multiplex theaters. BORN IN CHINA All listed multiplex theaters.

FATE OF THE FURIOUS All listed multiplex theaters. THE CASE FOR CHRIST AMC Classic Wharf. GOING IN STYLE All listed multiplex theaters. THE BOSS BABY All listed multiplex theaters. POWER RANGERS All listed multiplex theaters.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST All listed multiplex theaters. SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE AMC Mobile 16 GET OUT Regal Mobile Stadium 18, AMC Mobile 16, AMC Classic Wharf

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS MAY 11, 2017 - MAY 17, 2017

GENERAL INTEREST Grilled Cheese Meltdown Teams will compete in the inaugural Mobile Grilled Cheese Meltdown to create the yummiest grilled cheese sandwich. Thursday, May 11, starting at 5:30 p.m. in Cathedral Square. Visit Eventbrite.com for tickets. Lecture on Fairhope Join the FSTC Archives Committee Thursday, May 11, at 6 p.m. for a “Fairhope’s Public Librarians” talk at the Fairhope Public Library.

Home show The greatest home show in Mobile. May 12-14 at the Abba Shrine Center (7701 Hitt Road). For more information, call 251-6616523. Creek Fest On Saturday, May 13, the free Creek Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tricentennial Park, 2121 Lake Drive. Visit www.CreekFest.org. Mother’s Day Garden Concert

State of the City and County Lunch Join City of Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson and Mobile County Commissioner Merceria Ludgood as they discuss the state of our local government on Wednesday, May 17, at noon. Call 251431-8621 or visit events.mobilechamber. com. Providence Farmer’s Market Shop the Farmer’s Market every Wednesday now through July 12, 2-5 p.m., in Lot F at Providence Hospital. Call 251631-3501.

Fairhope Farmer’s Market The city of Fairhope will host an outdoor farmer’s market Thursdays 3-6 p.m., through Nov. 2. The market will be behind the Fairhope Public Library, downtown on Bancroft Street. Call 251-929-1466.

FUNDRAISERS Stamp Out Hunger 25th annual Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive will be Saturday, May 13. Place your bagged food donation by your mailbox and your local letter carrier will pick it up while on their Saturday mail route and bring your donation to Feeding the Gulf Coast. Call 251-653-1617.

ARTS “Bye Bye Birdie”

Dauphin Island Boardwalk Talks Boardwalk Talks are held the first and third Wednesday of each month at 11:15 a.m. at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd. Call 251-861-2141.

Alabama landscapes Mobile Museum of Art joins the Mobile Botanical Gardens for a guided walking tour of the longleaf pine forest. Thursday, May 11, at 6 p.m., 4850 Museum Drive. Call 251-208-5200. National Public Gardens Day Bellingrath Gardens joins the celebration of National Public Gardens Day, to raise awareness of the nation’s public gardens on Friday, May 12. Bellingrath Gardens will mark the occasion with a special greenhouse tour. Call 251-459-8864.

by Christ United Methodist Church, is every Tuesday, 3-6 p.m., on the west side of church property, 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile. Call 251-342-0462.

Midtown Optimist Club Join Midtown Optimist Club every Wednesday at noon for lunch at Azalea City Golf Course. Call 251-348-3542. Photo | www.bellingrath.com

Annual Mother’s Day Garden Concert at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 14. Call 251-459-8973. West Mobile Farmer’s Market West Mobile Farmer’s Market, sponsored

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Toastmasters Do you want to deliver a speech like a pro or gain leadership skills to advance your career? Toastmasters International meets regularly at six locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Visit www.toastmasters. org for more information.

Photo | Courtesy of Shane Rice Photography

The Tony award-winning musical “Bye Bye Birdie” will be presented at Mobile’s Playhouse-in-the-Park through May 14. Visit playhouseinthepark.org or call 251602-0630.

On the Verge …” Theatre 98 in Fairhope presents “On the Verge; or, The Geography of Yearning” by Eric Overmyer, May 5-7, 12-14, 19-21; Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Visit theatre98.org. “The Music Man” Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Music Man.” The show opens May 5 and runs weekends through May 21. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Visit cctshows. com or call 251-457-8887. LoDa Artwalk Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside Friday, May 12, 6-9 p.m. in the Lower Dauphin Street district.

MUSEUMS “The Rise and Fall of the Army Medical Museum” The Mobile Medical Museum presents a talk by Michael Rhode, archivist and curator with the U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. Thursday, May 11, at 6 p.m. Attendance is free. The lecture will be at USA Health Strada Patient Care Center. Call 251-415-1109. Tea for Two Tuesday afternoons at 2 p.m. the Fairhope Museum of History hosts a tea with a lecture on Fairhope history. The May 16 speaker will Lt. Stephanie Hollinghead. Call 251-929-1471.

“Windows to the Sea” “Windows to the Sea” is a new permanent exhibit at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium. Visit disl.org.

Bridge lessons The Mobile Bridge Center offers free bridge lessons each Tuesday at 6 p.m. at 1510 University Blvd. Arrive a few minutes early to register. Call the Bridge Center at 251-666-2147, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Shipwreck! Pirates and Treasure” A new, highly interactive exhibit at GulfQuest features more than 500 authentic artifacts recovered from deepocean shipwrecks. Visit www.gulfquest.org. “Christenberry: In Alabama” On the occasion of Alabama’s Bicentennial Celebration, this exhibit honors artist William Christenberry’s exploration of themes related to his native state. Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive. Through June 4. Call 251208-5200. “Faces of Africa” The History Museum of Mobile exhibit “Faces of Africa: A Mystical View of Tribal Heritage” runs through Monday, July 31. Call 251-208-7420. “Drugs: Costs and Consequences” The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration team up to present a powerful interactive exhibit of the effects of drugs on individuals and society. Through August. Visit exploreum.com. Fairhope’s founding There is quite a story behind the founding of Fairhope in 1894. Learn more at the Fairhope Museum of History, 24 N. Section St. The museum is open daily (except Sunday and Monday) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 251-929-1471.

Fitness and athletics classes New fitness classes are in progress at Palmer Pillans Middle School. To register or for more information on classes offered, call 251-463-7980 or go to communityactivitiesprogram.com. Dance and art classes New dance and art classes are in progress at Palmer Pillans Middle School. To register or for more information on classes offered, call 251-463-7980 or go to communityactivitiesprogram.com.

Photo | www.exploreum.com

Little Discoveries “Outside the Box,” aimed at children age 6 and under, explores how innovation and creativity can lead to a world of possibilities, starting with a simple cardboard box. Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Call 251-208-6893 or email jholland@ exploreum.com. Thursdays at MMoA Every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., the Mobile Museum of Art offers free admission to all visitors. No reservations are necessary. MMoA is at 4850 Museum Drive. Call 251-208-5200.

SPORTING EVENTS/ACTIVITIES Weekly 1K/5K Every Thursday evening at 6 p.m., join Red Bread Outfitters and Cortlandt’s Pub in the Spring Hill Village Shopping Center for a 1K or 5K run and walk. No cost to participate.

Ballroom dance Azalea Ballroom Dance Club hosts dances the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. at Via Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center, 1717 Dauphin St. Call 251-623-9183 or visit azaleaballroomdanceclub.com. Ballroom dance The Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society hosts dances the first and third Monday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. at Hot Wheels Skating Rink in Daphne. Email cassief13@aol.com.

WORKSHOPS ACT tutoring Get to really know the ACT and learn tips, tricks and valuable test-taking skills. Classes meet the four Saturdays leading up to the June 10 ACT test. Classes are held at Palmer Pillans Middle School. Visit communityactivitiesprogram.com.

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THE NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD PUZZLE NEW ENGLAND CHATTER BY ALAN ARBESFELD / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ ACROSS 1 Part of a crossword 5 Child’s play 10 Measure, as a runner 15 Attachment letters 18 No. 2 19 Star of CBS’s “Madam Secretary” 20 Eighth of a cup 21 Munich missus 22 Commercials for a “Star Trek” movie? 24 Yoga teacher’s invitation? 26 Head bands? 27 Roster shortener 29 Can’t stand 30 Naval agreement 31 Inclined 33 Flower arrangement 36 Weather forecaster in Phoenix? 40 Auto frame 43 Serpent’s tail? 44 Where Einstein was born 45 Gorsuch replaced him 47 Prefix with -partite 48 “Louder!” 51 Most in-shape person at a cosmetics company? 54 Strict Sabbath observer of old 55 Word before green or after deep blue 57 Narrow passage: Abbr. 58 ____ friends 59 Worn things 61 Back biter, maybe 64 Standing directly in front of one another 66 Big game 69 Ridicule shouted out of a moving car? 72 Tear apart 73 Short-lived things 75 1998 Sarah McLachlan hit 76 Casino draw 78 Progressive alternative 79 “Eww!” 81 Pan Am rival 83 Gulf War allies 87 Quickly added bit of punctuation? 91 Space saver in a taxi or bus 93 Suffix with beat 94 “Gangsta’s Paradise” rapper 95 Egyptian ____ (spotted cat breed) 96 Turkish honorific 97 Tries to mediate 100 What allowed one physician to get through flu season? 105 Puts out 107 Articles of faith 108 Two-time U.S. Open champ 109 Unctuous flattery

111 Hangs loose 113 J.Crew competitor 116 Regimen with limited intake of corn? 119 Toddler’s cry upon entering the bathroom? 122 Where I-15 meets I-70 123 Cookin’, after “on” 124 Where “ho” and “hoina” mean “yes” and “no” 125 Tired (out) 126 Spanish chess piece 127 Chrissie in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 128 Backspace over 129 Cross condition DOWN 1 Nasty cut 2 Gifford’s successor on TV 3 Violators of the Second Commandment 4 They can throw you off 5 High points of a European vacation? 6 Condiment for pommes frites 7 ____-turn 8 Cartwright who played one of the von Trapp children in “The Sound of Music” 9 Energetic one 10 Come together 11 First daughter of the 1960s 12 Studio warning 13 A quarter of M 14 Kenan’s former Nickelodeon pal

15 Support for a fringe candidate, maybe 16 Title for Helen Mirren 17 Something “kicked up” 21 Heads for a bar? 23 Remain fresh 25 Mother of Helios 28 Imitative 31 Scopes Trial org. 32 Nitwits 34 Music genre for Steppenwolf and Iron Butterfly 35 Elaine ____, cabinet member for both Bush and Trump 36 Shere who wrote “Women and Love” 37 Cross to bear 38 Sister of Erato 39 Things that allow for jumping ahead in line? 41 Like some transfers 42 Burned a bit 46 Game with drawings 49 Slight 50 ____ moment 51 Shire of “Rocky” 52 Kind of chance 53 In the mood 56 Buffet centerpiece? 60 Sinatra, for one 62 Squash 63 Aggravation 65 Just manages 66 Takes the first step 67 Christmas Day exhortation 68 Removed expeditiously

70 1920s anarchist in a prominent trial 71 Big mouth 74 Extinct cousin of the kiwi 77 Go out for a while? 80 Caffeine source 82 Make no bones about 84 Completely convinced about 85 “I hate the Moor” speaker 86 Quick and detached, musically: Abbr. 88 Special Agent Gibbs’s beat 89 Call wrongly 90 Bris official 92 Also-____ 98 Swing site 99 Activity in a dohyo 101 Site-seeing? 102 Certain Consumer Reports employee 103 Beatles song, album or movie 104 Pasta picks 106 Discontinued Toyota line 109 Put-down 110 Speck of dust 112 Didn’t give way 113 Yankee Sparky who wrote “The Bronx Zoo” 114 Abruzzi bell town 115 Da’s opposite 117 “Phooey!” 118 Assist with the dishes 120 Spring for a vacation? 121 “No ____!”

ANSWERS ON PAGE 44

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SPORTS UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Mobile County archers bring home many trophies BY J, MARK BRYANT/SPORTS WRITER/SPORTS@LAGNIAPPEMOBILE.COM/TWITTER @GOULAGUY

obile County was well represented at the annual National Archery in the Schools (NASP) State Championship in Montgomery. Coming home as the top overall scorer in the boys’ division was Robert Morgan of St. Paul’s Episcopal High School. Morgan was among 1,248 students competing in the event for students in grades 4-12. He was presented a custom Genesis bow and a practice target, and is among those qualified to attend the NASP National Championship this weekend in Louisville, Kentucky. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) coordinates the archery program through partnerships with schools and supporting organizations such as the Alabama chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Morrell Manufacturing, Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officers Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Academy Sports & Outdoors. Marisa Futral, NASP coordinator for the ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division, said the state tourney is the culmination of nine regionals. “Thousands of archers competed in regional qualifying tournaments for a chance to draw their bows in the state championship,” Futral said. “I’m thrilled to see so many youth excited about archery, and hope they continue in the sport.” Morgan scored 297 of a possible total of 300 points. The top female archer was Abigail Turner of Buckhorn Middle School in New Market, who recorded 293 points of a possible 300. The top team results are: • High School Division — 1) Alma Bryant in Irvington, 2) Buckhorn, 3) Ashville; • Middle School Division — 1) Buckhorn, 2) Cullman, 3) Grand Bay; and

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• Elementary School Division — 1) East in Cullman, 2) Dixon in Irvington, 3) Breitling in Grand Bay. The leading individuals are: • High School Females — 1) Gracie Cunningham of Ashville, 2) Caleigh Kitchens of Arab, 3) Brigette Rollins of Good Hope; • High School Males — 1) Robert Morgan of St. Paul’s, 2) Justin Liveoak of Chilton County, 3) James Ladd of Prattville; • Middle School Females — 1) Abigail Turner of Buckhorn, 2) Kelleigh Entrekin of Grand Bay, 3) Sophia Sharp of Arab; • Middle School Males — 1) Samson Womer of Robertsdale; 2) Jackson Miner of Cullman; 3) Logan Koger of Madison County; • Elementary School Females — 1) Lily Steiner of Dixon; 2) Kaitlyn Hastings of Breitling; 3) Mia Cornelson of Dixon; and • Elementary School Males — 1) Ian Crosswhite of Dixon; 2) Colby Lewis of Dixon; 3) Kase Nixon of East. Complete results are available at www.nasptournaments. org. To learn more about Alabama NASP, contact Futral by phone at 800-245-2740 or email at Marisa.Futral@dcnr. alabama.gov.

Mobile Greenway a step closer

For more than 30 years, the idea of a walking-running trail from Langan Municipal Park to the Mobile River has been under discussion. Now it appears the dream is turning into reality. A groundbreaking ceremony took place Monday to mark the first section of the long-awaited Mobile Greenway Initiative. The event took place at Tricentennial Park, which will be the site this Saturday for the third annual Creek Fest. “We hope you come spend a beautiful day on historic

Three Mile Creek,” said Kelly Warren, director of prevention and wellness at the Mobile County Health Department. “The original source of drinking water for the city of Mobile, once called Bayou Chateauguay after the younger brother of Bienville and d’Iberville, this creek is forever tied to the development and growth of our great city.” Women Making a Difference, a public health advisory board for MCHD, got things rolling in 2013 by applying for and receiving a $218,650 grant from the Sybil H. Smith Charitable Trust. The funds will be used to install the 0.8-mile section of the path beginning at the eastern edge of Day Lake at Tricentennial Park and extending westward to Ridge Road West. “This event grew out of the groundswell of support to make the longtime dream of a biking/walking trail along Three Mile Creek a reality,” Warren said. “This vision has been in plan form for more than 30 years. We are excited that this plan will move into reality in 2017, as construction of the First Site in Phase One of the plan will begin this year.” Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s administration and the City Council have been major backers of the initiative. The city received $386,525 from the U.S. Department of Interior toward the project, which will eventually stretch 12 miles. The ultimate goal is to establish an interconnected Mobile greenway and blueway. This will include a system of bike and walking paths, canoe and kayak launches plus exercise stations that link neighborhoods, communities and parks. Three Mile Creek flows through six of Mobile’s seven council districts, sections of Prichard and through all three County Commission districts. Saturday’s free Creek Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The family fun day will be filled with music, food, fellowship, environmental exhibits, canoe and kayak rides in the creek, a cane-pole fishing tournament in Day Lake for children 16 and younger, and merit badge opportunities for Boy Scouts. To learn more, visit www.CreekFest.org.

Latest NFL rookies have local flair

The Reese’s Senior Bowl accounted for one-third of the players selected over the three-day NFL Draft. The names of 85 players were called during that stretch, marking the 11th time in the last dozen years at least 82 all-stars were selected. Temple linebacker Haason Reddick was the first Senior Bowler taken, as he was 13th overall to Arizona. Others going in the opening round were Alabama tight end O.J. Howard (Tampa Bay, 19th), Ole Miss tight end Evan Engram (New York Giants, 23rd) and LSU cornerback Tre’Davius White (Buffalo, 27th). • After tight end Gerald Everett became the first University of South Alabama player to be taken in the NFL Draft, Jaguar teammate Josh Magee signed a free-agent contract with Atlanta. Magee caught 49 passes for 822 yards and five touchdowns last season.

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STYLE GARDENING

Master Gardener class begins in August BY BY ELLEN HUCKABAY AND CAROL WILLIAMS | COASTALALABAMAGARDENING@GMAIL.COM

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Photos | Alice Marty

ow that you’ve been reading our Ask a Master Gardener column in Lagniappe for almost two years, maybe you’re thinking, “That sounds fun. How can I get involved?” We’re so glad you asked! The Master Gardener program is much more than just 15 daylong gardening classes. It is a volunteer training program by which the Alabama Cooperative Extension System extends its outreach mission to the citizens of Alabama. This program represents an effective partnership between Auburn and Alabama A&M universities and motivated volunteers interested in educating their communities using research-based information. All of the techniques and information we teach are borne out by research. The course covers the A-to-Z of gardening and horticulture, including building healthy soil, landscape design, fruits and vegetables, and much more. We even take a couple of field trips during the course to learn about native plants and get to know other Master Gardeners. We often say it’s like getting a horticulture degree in three months! The volunteer component of being a Master Gardener is just as important, if not more so, than the classes. You will have one full calendar year to complete 50 volunteer hours. Most interns have no trouble completing the hours within a few months of graduation, and a few go-getters finish their 50 hours before our December awards banquet. Among dozens of volunteer opportunities, Master Gardeners support the preservation work of the Mobile Botanical Gardens throughout the year. Helping with their fundraising sales means learning about and handling some of the most beautiful plants available from all the local nurseries, and meanwhile making a giant shopping list for our own yards. The Gallery of Gardens tours in May include Master Gardener docents at each garden with lists of plants to help those who want to spruce up their home gardens. There’s also the Master Gardener booth at the Festival of Flowers, surrounded by beautiful flowers in breathtaking designs. And those shopping lists for our own plantings! In the spring and fall, there is a Master Gardeners’ booth at the Market in Mardi Gras Park in downtown Mobile to share information with those interested in planting their own yards and gardens. Did I mention shopping for our area farmers’ best fresh fruits and vegetables? We help with 4-H field trips for school children to get outside and learn about the forests and woodlands of Mobile County. In the fall, there’s a Master Gardener booth at “BOO! at Bellingrath” to give candy and craft treats to the children, too. Master Gardeners also host our own “Lunch & Learn” program every month for the public to hear about topics ranging from fire ants to camellia grafting, presented by local experts, many of them Master Gardeners themselves. Annually, we host a seminar with nationally known guest speakers who bring so many new and creative ideas, and in December we offer our Christmas Greenery sale. We love to dig together, planting and maintaining the DREAM gardens surrounding the Jon Archer Center, home of the Master

Master Gardener Brenda Bolton preparing for the annual Greenery Sale. Gardeners and the Cooperative Extension. We can also be found digging at several of the community gardens around Mobile. Did I mention the banquet, the luncheons, Farm to Table, the monthly MG meetings with guest speakers, the good food we share? Mentoring the new Master Gardeners is also a very important part of our volunteer program. Helping our interns make the best of their time in the classes and trying out the multitude of volunteer opportunities keeps the Master Gardener program growing. Once you’ve completed the class and the initial 50 volunteer hours, you will be a “certified” Master Gardener, which means you may officially join the Mobile County and Alabama Master Gardener associations and purchase your green MG apron. Once certified, you will also be able to continue the volunteer activities that best suit your interests. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M and Auburn universities) is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce. Educational programs serve all people regardless of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, marital status, family/parental status, religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, reprisal or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. We welcome everyone!

2017 Mobile County Master Gardener Class When: Wednesdays from Aug. 9 through Nov. 15, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Where: Jon Archer Center, 1070 Schillinger Road N., Mobile Cost: $160 for materials and educational fieldtrip (limited number of scholarships available) Application deadline: June 17 For more information: Call 251-574-8445 or email jda0002@ aces.edu Print application available at mg.aces.edu/mobile YOU ARE INVITED TO THESE UPCOMING GARDENING EVENTS What: Mobile Master Gardeners Monthly Meeting When: Thursday, May 11, 10-11 a.m. Where: Jon Archer Center, 1070 Schillinger Road N., Mobile Topic: Creating a Backyard Bird Habitat, Martha Terry What: Mobile Master Gardeners Lunch & Learn When: Monday, May 15, noon to 1 p.m. Where: Jon Archer Center, 1070 Schillinger Road N., Mobile Topic: Grocery Store Botany, Dr. Judy Stout What: MBG’s Gallery of Gardens When: May 19-20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Gardens in Oakleigh, Church Street East and DeTonti Square Information: www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 during tours

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STYLE FEATURE

Presenting the 37th annual Le Beautillion Militaire BY JO ANNE MCKNIGHT/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Photo/Cynthia Tucker

n Saturday, May 13, 5:30 p.m. at Mobile Convention Center, 36 accomplished young men, or “Beaux,” will be presented to society at the 37th annual Le Beautillion Militaire. Tickets may be purchased for $60 each by calling Sherry Archibald at 419-306-5306. The Beautillion, a yearly event sponsored by the Mobile chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc., is much like a cotillion — a debutantes’ ball — except it features young men. “The Beaux have earned their place in the spotlight,” Cynthia Tucker of Jack and Jill of America said. “In order to be presented, they must have good grades and be in good standing in the community. They challenge conventional stereotypes that depict young black men as lawless or academically challenged.” Several Beaux, she said, are accomplished athletes who have played on outstanding football or basketball teams. Some are honor students. Many are student leaders at their respective high schools. Some have shown considerable talent in the arts. And all of them plan to pursue post-secondary degrees. The Beaux at this year’s Beautillion are: Tyrque Dowdlan, Tylan Ward, Tyler Rice, Kameron McWilliams, Tavarez Jones, Adam Thomas, Nicholas Sims, Jabori Reiss, Treylen Williams, Ryan Johnson, Zachary Petty, Zachary Portlock, Myron James, Joshua Gwinn, Mylan Stennis, Thomas Dixon, Michael McGowan, Earnest McReynolds, Jay Payne, Nicholas Henry, Tyler Richard, Joshua Peoples, De’Anthony Washington, Bradley Flott, Joseph Little, Tamaurice Smith, Brandon Hinton, Fre’Nando Woods, Isaac Smith, Antonio Darrington and Braylen Cathcart.

Back row, from left: Tyrque Dowdlan, Tylan Ward, Tyler Rice, Kameron McWilliams, Tavarez Jones, Adam Thomas, Nicholas Sims, Jabori Reiss, Treylen Williams, Ryan Johnson and Zachary Petty. Middle row, from left: Zachary Portlock, Myron James, Joshua Gwinn, Mylan Stennis, Thomas Dixon, Michael McGowan, Earnest McReynolds, Jay Payne, Nicholas Henry, Tyler Richard and Joshua Peoples. Front row, from left: De’Anthony Washington, Bradley Flott, Joseph Little, Tamaurice Smith, Brandon Hinton, Fre’Nando Woods, Isaac Smith, Antonio Darrington, Braylen Cathcart. The event will include dinner and entertainment by the Beaux — including a military-style drill performed with walking canes — and a skit titled “A Farewell to President Barack Obama.” The Beautillion is the Mobile chapter’s primary fundraiser

for the philanthropic arm of the national organization, Jack and Jill of America Foundation Inc. Proceeds will be donated to national and local charities addressing African-American families, education and wellness.

A gumbo of good news BY SHARMAN EGAN/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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of President Donald Trump’s proposed budget, including the Tiger Grant for the redo of Broad Street. According to Assistant City Attorney Keri Coumanis, who spoke to the April meeting of the Old Dauphin Way Association, if you want to see that project realized (slated to roll out in the fall), you need to get on the phone with our congressional representatives. Burger King is opening at the former Arby’s at 659 Government St. And I’m told down the road, at Dexter Avenue, a group has applied for a variance to put in a Krispy Kreme with a drive-thru. The city presented its proposed 2018 Capital Improvement Plan in April. There’s good news for walkers, bikers, paddlers and auto suspensions. That extra penny in sales tax you fork over every time you buy something will go toward $21 million in improvements, including over $6 million for parks, $5 million for road projects and $1 million for sidewalks. Bike and pedestrian projects and the Mobile Greenway Initiative are slated to receive $550,000. If you’re wondering what your 2017 CIP has done for you today, the new basketball court opened at Sage Park on May 3. Rickarby Park will soon be getting a new court as well, as part of a major renovation. Other improvements will include repaired sidewalks, interior and exterior painting of the recreation center building, new baseball benches and enhanced security. I was beginning to think I wouldn’t see the Mobile Greenway in my lifetime. The proposed walking and biking trail along Three Mile Creek has been discussed for years. Now, it is finally becoming a reality. The powers that be got out their shovels on May 8 and broke ground on the first phase of the project, a 10-foot-wide concrete trail that will run for .8 miles along the north side of Three Mile Creek, from Tricentennial Park to West Ridge Road. It will include a fitness zone, landscaping, solar lighting, benches and a kayak launch. The schedule calls for it to be completed in 10 months.

Photo/City of Mobile

hew! I’ve been busy as a corn dog truck on Fat Tuesday just trying to keep up with all the “Mobility” news this past month. I had a half-dozen different ideas for this column, but finally decided it was time for a gumbo of news from all over the city. With March Madness, the Senior Bowl and the Dollar General Bowl behind us, it may seem quiet on the sports front. But things are happening to make Mobile more of a regional sports center. Starting this summer, Mobile will host a United States Soccer Federation-sanctioned team for the first time since 1997 as AFC Mobile joins the Gulf Coast Premier League for the 2017 summer season. The season opener is May 14 at the Lipscomb Athletic Complex on Michael Boulevard. There’s buzz Mobile may be getting a professional basketball team for the first time since 2003 (does anyone remember the Mobile Revelers?). Mobile is vying with five other cities to host a Development League team affiliated with the New Orleans Pelicans. Rumor has it NBA officials toured Mobile and the Civic Center in April. I wonder where that leaves Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s plans to demolish the center in 2018? The world’s largest tennis tournament is coming to the Mobile Tennis Center in July, hosting 2,000 players from nine Southern states. The tournament will return in 2018 and 2019, bringing with it almost $900,000 per year in city and county tax revenues and an estimated $40 million in economic impact to the area. Mobile hosted the 2017 USA Gymnastics Region 8 Championships for Levels 6, 7 and 8 at the Convention Center in April. The three-day competition brought more than 1,000 young gymnasts and 600 coaches from eight southeastern states to the city. They competed to participate in the national championships in Milwaukee. Unfortunately all the recent “Mobility” news isn’t good. Funding for some of the city’s projects is in the crosshairs

The city of Mobile broke ground on the first phase of the Mobile Greenway on Monday, the next step toward building a multi-modal pathway linking neighborhoods, businesses and residents across Mobile. Future plans call for an extended trail allowing you to walk or bike from Langan Park to downtown Mobile. Now wouldn’t that be something? The ceremonial shovels have been busy. The midtown Publix groundbreaking was held in late April (well after actual construction began). If the recent rains ease off, we will be shopping by the end of the year. Worst-case scenario is early 2018. And finally, who’d have thought you’d see Mobile touted in the national press as a “smart city”? But indeed, a recent Wall Street Journal article, “The Rise of the Smart City,” highlighted the city’s Innovation Team and its efforts to fight blight using smartphones and Instagram’s photo-sharing app. Then, in early May, The New York Times Magazine took “A Look Inside Airbus’ Epic Assembly Line.” The feature is more photo essay than text, with stunning pictures of the assembly process. If you doubt you’ll ever see inside the factory in person, it’s worth checking out online. Mobility is a monthly column of development news in and around downtown Mobile.

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STYLE HOROSCOPES TRUMPCARE WILL NOT TREAT YOU KINDLY

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ANSWERS FROM PAGE 36

TAURUS (4/20-5/20) — While enjoying a concert from the cheap seats at a local music venue, you’ll be forced to confront the truth that poor people used to be smaller. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is being marginally obese. GEMINI (5/21-6/21) — You’ll be hoodwinked by a phishing scam after clicking on a malicious email. Instead of taking financial information, the perpetrators will threaten to tell everyone how often you read your own blog. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is an addiction to tube socks. CANCER (6/22-7/22) — You’ll feel foolish when you realize you could’ve saved 30 cents on your last toothpaste purchase at Rite Aid. Apparently, you also missed buy-one-get-one-free swimsuit weekend at Walgreens. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is the ghost of Abigail. LEO (7/23-8/23) — Your vacation in Hawaii will end in arrest, as you’ll be caught trying to steal a novelty turtle from a surf shop. The good news is you’ll extend your holiday by 40 days. Your uncovered preexisting condition is an affinity for collecting turtle shells. VIRGO (8/24-9/22) — You’ll break down in a Payless ShoeSource after failing to find a pair in your size. Your whole life you’ve had to buy different shoes to fit your weird, gross feet. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is an uneven left foot. LIBRA (9/23-10/22) — Giving your inner child a birthday gift, you’ll buy a case of water balloons. Your friends won’t share your enthusiasm, so your evening ends with you ballooning yourself. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is Silly String you swallowed at age 6. SCORPIO (10/23-11/21) — You’ll become ill while on a soup cleanse. The idea was to lose weight by only eating hearty vegetable soup, but apparently something was wrong with the vegetables. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is grilled cheese allergies. SAGITTARIUS (11/22-12/22) — You’ll fall asleep twice trying to watch a foreign film your friend described as their “favorite movie ever.” Subtitles are exhausting but be careful, three strikes and you’re out. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is narcolepsy. CAPRICORN (12/23-1/19) — Tired of waiting on nature to take its course, you’ll harvest a grocery bag full of Silver Queen corn right off a farmer’s uncut stalks. When authorities finally capture “The Corn Bandit,” you’ll have a nagging hunger for pink-eyed, purple hull peas. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is Monsanto. AQUARIUS (1/20-2/18) — Your kindness toward an animal in need will likely only pay off in sloppy kisses and backyard filth. For what it’s worth, your karma will be golden in your next Ravenloft campaign. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is Dungeons & Dragons. PISCES (2/19-3/20) — A trip to Sage Park will end in shame when you’re challenged to a pickup game on the newly built basketball court. With limited skill and crippling social anxiety, the rout will leave you with a broken spirit and ankles. Your uncovered pre-existing condition is a third nipple. ARIES (3/21-4/19) — Trapped in a fishing net, you’ll be forced to learn to communicate with aquatic animals. Unfortunately, your pleas will be ignored after a group of bass determine your life-and-death struggle is a satisfying irony. Your uncovered preexisting condition is jungle fever.

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STYLE BOOZIE

So many good things

make a stop in Mob-town be sure to grab tickets ASAP, their big-city shows sell out!

BY BOOZIE BEER NUES/SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

So Saturday night while the spies were all over town, I saw Sturgill Simpson at The Wharf! Of course Sturgill was great and, like Black Violin, if you weren’t there you were missing out! When we first got settled into our seats, an older man couldn’t get over the fact that he smelled something in the air. He kept saying, “Someone is smokin’ somethin’, I smell it.” Boozie and friends never smelled whatever he was smelling, but whatever, old man. Then, while waiting for the show to start, a girl was walking up the stairs and tripped and fell, trying to play it cool and act like she wasn’t hammered and just fell. She rolled over and just sat on the stairs acting like nothing happened. This is all at the beginning of the night, too! As the night went on, things got a little strange. A man couldn’t get over the fact I was wearing white jeans. He kept asking if it was a trend and why all of a sudden he was seeing people wearing the same pants. Maybe he was the one smoking something, because Boozie was so confused. I thought white jeans had been a thing for awhile. Maybe he doesn’t get out much? Because, please, it’s the Mobile lady uniform of summer. It must be something about Sturgill’s music that puts love in the air because I spotted multiple couples dancing. One older couple was slow dancing and couldn’t keep their hands off each other, before deciding to leave midconcert. There was another couple dancing but not slow dancing, it was more like a lap dance. I guess the music moves everyone differently. Speaking of the music moving people, some of Boozie’s friends had seats closer to the stage and said they were exchanging a few words when the people behind them told them to take their conversation to the bathroom if they were going to talk… Yikes, guess they weren’t feeling the love like the others. I know I sound like a broken record, but the next time Sturgill is in town, you gotta catch his show! You’ll regret it (again) if you miss it!

urprise, it’s mid-May! Not really sure how we got here already, but here we are. Maybe it was the fact that we had to pull out jackets last week. I swear, it was colder last week than it was in February. Or maybe it was all the drinks. This past weekend was a celebrating weekend, betweenå Cinco de Mayo margaritas, graduation champagne, Kentucky Derby mint juleps and concert beers, there was enough alcohol consumed to make anyone’s head hurt! Even though Monday was rough, I’m ready to do it again! Grab a drink and enjoy the recap of the week!

to busting through the paper streamers serving as a barrier and taking that baby out for a spin. My spy also reported the night ended with jello shots and talk of a handstand contest as well as auctioning dates off next year! Let’s just say Catholics know how to party — for a good cause, that is.

Classically hip-hop

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but … if you missed Black Violin this past Saturday night at the Saenger Theatre, you missed out big time. I am kicking myself for not going, but since I can’t be in two places at A night in Rio once, I had to choose only one concert to attend. St. Mary’s Catholic School’s annual fundraiser, Casino So while I was at The Wharf, the Saenger was getting Night, was held this past Saturday with the theme “Rio,” a show like no other. Black Violin is a hip-hop duo who and let’s just say things got wild. At one point in the night play classical stringed instruments — genius, if you ask they had a fire dancer as entertainment. How she avoided me. Anyways, these guys are a big deal, Mobile might burning herself is a mystery to me. We hear David J. not know what they missed out on but they will soon. Maloney was working it at the roulette wheel and having The duo is known for inspiring young kids and showing pretty good success for the house when our spy saw him. that classical instruments don’t have to be boring, or so District 2 City Councilman Levon Manzie was a pretty “classical.” So it was no surprise they ended their show generous blackjack dealer, according to the card sharks at with the Emerald Coast Honors Orchestra joining them his table. You can’t expect a politician to be too tough on on stage! Everyone did an amazing job, and the audience his constituents. loved it so much they gave them a standing ovation. This year there were also some fancy cars to try out, Since I couldn’t be there I asked my spy to describe brought in by Dean McCrary. One woman told Boozie’s the concert in two words. Her response: “awesome” and spy getting in and starting up the Porsche was enough to “amazing.” Those are strong words, so like I said, if you get her motor red-lining. She gave serious consideration missed it, you missed out big time. Next time these guys

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Untraditionally country

Well, kids, that’s all I’ve got this week. Just remember, whether rain or shine, dramatic or scandalous or just some plain ol’ Sturgill lovin’, I will be there. Ciao!

LAGNIAPPE LEGALS | 251.450-4466 | legals@lagniappemobile.com PROBATE NOTICE OF ESTATE ADMINISTRATION PROBATE COURT OF MOBILE COUNTY, ALABAMA Estate of: MARIE CELINE KAHALLEY, Deceased Case No. 2017-0294 Take notice that Letters Testamentary have been granted to the below named party on the 2nd day of May, 2017 by the Honorable Don Davis, Judge of Probate of Mobile County Probate Court, Alabama and that all parties having claims against said estate should file the same with the Probate Court of said county within the time allowed by law, or they will be barred. DEBORAH MARIE KAHALLEY KALIFEH as Executrix under the last will and testament of MARIE CELINE KAHALLEY, Deceased. Attorney of Record: BRAXTON C. COUNTS Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 25, 2017.

NOTICE OF ESTATE ADMINISTRATION PROBATE COURT OF MOBILE COUNTY, ALABAMA Estate of: M.B. BLAKENEY, Deceased Case No. 2017-0783 Take notice that Letters Testamentary have been granted to the below named party on the 1st day of May, 2017 by the Honorable Don Davis, Judge of Probate of Mobile County Probate Court, Alabama and that all parties having claims against said estate should file the same with the Probate Court of said county within the time allowed by law, or they will be barred. JAMES MCWHORTER and LAURIE OWEN as Co-Executors under the last will and testament of M.B. BLAKENEY, Deceased. Attorney of Record: MELISSA POSEY FURMAN Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 25, 2017.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Notice is hereby given that the University of South Alabama (Owner) will accept sealed Bids for the following Work: CENTRAL UTILITIES PLANT ROOF REPLACEMENT University of South Alabama Mobile, Alabama USA JOB NO. 16-51 BID NO. 7022101 Bids will be received and clocked in at 2:00 p.m. local time from Prequalified Contractors on Thursday, June 8, 2017, in Room AD245 of the USA Administration Building, on the Main Campus of the University of South Alabama. Bids will not be accepted after the time indicated herein and will be returned unopened. A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to the University of South Alabama in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Bid Documents shall be available only through the USA Purchasing Office. Contact as follows: University of South Alabama Purchasing Department 307 University Blvd, N., AD245 PH# (251) 460-6151 FX# (251) 414-8291 (rbrown@southalabama.edu) Bids must be submitted on Proposal Forms furnished in the Bid Documents or copies thereof. The preceding is an abbreviated advertisement. The complete advertisement may be obtained from the location listed above. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Thursday, June 1, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. local time, in Room AD 023 of the Administration Building. Those in attendance will include the Owner, Engineer, and Consultants. Contract bidders, subcontractors and suppliers are encouraged to attend. A tour of the Project site is scheduled immediately after the conference All questions concerning the Project should be submitted in writing to the Project Manager at the address listed below. 307 University Blvd. N., AD001 Mobile, AL 36688 PH# (251) 341-3860 FX# (251) 461-1370 rcorrigan@southalabama.edu Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 25, 2017

FORECLOSURES FORECLOSURE NOTICE Default having been made by the herein referenced Grantees in the terms of that certain Vendor’s Lien Deed executed on April 3, 2015, by Chad O. Bahm and Tracy D. Harper, as Grantees to Iras Development Company, Inc., a Alabama corporation, as Grantor which said Vendor’s Lien Deed was recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate, Mobile County, Alabama, in Real Property Book LR7249, Page 1019, and said vendor’s lien having been last assigned to W. Austin Mulherin, which assignment was recorded in the office of the Judge of Probate Mobile County Alabama in Real Property Book LR7258, Page 734, and default continuing under said Vendor’s Lien Deed, by virtue of and pursuant to the power of sale contained in said Vendor’s Lien, the following described real property will be sold at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder, in front of the North entrance of the Courthouse of said County, located at 205 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama 36644, during the legal hours of sale, on June 8, 2017. Lot 59, as per plat of TIMBER-

LAND, Unit III as recorded in Map Book 92, Page 16, Probate Court of Mobile County, Alabama, including a 1994 (14x70) Redmon Mobile Home Serial No. 14714577 Said sale is made for the purpose of paying said Vendor’s Lien debt and costs of foreclosure. W. Austin Mulherin Holder of said Vendor’s Lien WILLIAM B. JACKSON, II STOKES & CLINTON, P.C. Attorneys for Lienholder Post Office Box 991801 Mobile, Alabama 36691 (251)460-2500 Lagniappe HD May 4, May 11, 18, 2017

FORECLOSURE NOTICE Default having been made by the herein referenced Grantee in the terms of that certain Corrected Vendor’s Lien Deed executed on March 29, 2004, by Robert N. Chambliss and Katherine A. Chambliss, as Grantees to Iras Development Company, Inc., a Alabama corporation, as Grantor which said Vendor’s Lien Deed was recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate, Mobile County, Alabama, in Real Property Book 5547, Page 1839 and as corrected in Real Property Book 5570, Page 0732, and said vendor’s lien having been last assigned to McAleer Properties II, L.P., which assignment was recorded in the office of the Judge of Probate Mobile County Alabama in Real Property Book LR7062, Page 267, and default continuing under said Vendor’s Lien Deed, by virtue of and pursuant to the power of sale contained in said Vendor’s Lien, the following described real property will be sold at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder, in front of the North entrance of the Courthouse of said County, located at 205 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama 36644, during the legal hours of sale, on June 1, 2017. Lot 27, as per plat of TIMBERLAND, Unit II as recorded in Map Book 89, Page 60, Probate Court of Mobile County, Alabama; Said sale is made for the purpose of paying said Vendor’s Lien debt and costs of foreclosure. McAleer Properties II, L.P. Holder of said Vendor’s Lien WILLIAM B. JACKSON, II STOKES & CLINTON, P.C. Attorneys for Lienholder Post Office Box 991801 Mobile, Alabama 36691 251-460-2400 Lagniappe HD April 27, May 4, 11, 2017

FORECLOSURE NOTICE Default having been made by the herein referenced Grantee in the terms of that certain Vendor’s Lien Deed executed on July 2, 2012, by Aric L. Vertrees as Grantee to Iras Development Company, Inc. , as Grantor which said Vendor’s Lien Deed was recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate, Mobile County, Alabama, in Real Property Book 6911, Page 708; and last assigned to McAleer Properties II, L.P. in Real Property Book 7290, Page 130; and default continuing under said Vendor’s Lien Deed, by virtue of and pursuant to the power of sale contained in said Vendor’s Lien, the following described real property will be sold at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder, in front of the North entrance of the Courthouse of said County, located at 205 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama 36644, during the legal hours of sale, on June 1, 2017. Lot 100, as per plat of TIMBERLAND, UNIT IV as recorded in Map Book 98, Page 41, Probate Court of Mobile County, Alabama Said sale is made for the purpose of paying said Vendor’s Lien debt and costs of foreclosure. McAleer Properties II, L.P. Holder of said Vendor’s Lien WILLIAM B. JACKSON, II STOKES & CLINTON, P.C. Attorneys for Lienholder Post Office Box 991801 Mobile, Alabama 36691 (251) 460-2400 Lagniappe HD April 27, May 4, 11, 2017

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Mobile City Planning Commission proposes to consider adoption of a Zoning District Correspondence Matrix. The Matrix equates existing zoning districts to the Land Use categories as noted on the Future Land Use Map component of the Comprehensive Plan. The Matrix is to be used as a guide during the interim between adoption of the Future Land Use Map and the adoption of the new/revised Zoning Ordinance in approximately 12-18 months. The Zoning District Correspondence Matrix will be considered by the Mobile City Planning Commission at a Public Hearing on the 18th day of May, 2017. The Public Hearing will be held in the Auditorium of Government Plaza, located at 205 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama. Lagniappe HD May 11, 2017

NOTICE OF SALE The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 4763 Lott Rd., Eight Mile, AL 36613. 2011Dodge Charger 2B3CL3CG3BH543325 2012 Nissan Titan

1N6BA0EK9CN322334 1999 Pontiac Bonneville 1G2HX52K1XH209743

Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 478 Scott Dr., Saraland, AL 36571. 2004 Honda Accord 1HGCM56304A105588 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 121 Schillinger Rd. N., Mobile, AL 36608. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 3GNEC12078G217334 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 7960 Two Mile Rd., Irvington, AL 36544. 1998 Chevrolet ‘S’Truck 1GCCS19XXW8249929 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 18342 Couch Plant Rd., Summerdale, AL 36580. 2005 Dodge Magnum 2D4GZ48V95H537645 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 567 Leamore Ct., Mobile, AL 36617. 1989 Chevrolet Caprice 1G1BN51E7KR148977 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 6481 Moffett Rd., Mobile, AL 36618. 2002 Jaguar X-Type SAJEA51D82XC44771 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 25874 County Rd. 54 W., Daphne, AL 36526. 1995 Lincoln Town Car 1LNLM82W5SY761415 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 353 Apt. A W Highland Ave., Mobile, AL 36610. 1998 GMC Sierra 1GTEC19W1WE558784 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 31 Timothy Ave., Prichard, AL 36610. 2010 Chevrolet Aveo KL1TG5DE1AB050754 2007 Mazda CX-7 JM3ER293670111982 2013 Hyundai Elantra 5NPDH4AE2DH307108 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 1512 Garwood Ave., Mobile, AL 36618. 1989 Ford Bronco II 1FMCU12T7KUB77473 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 09, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 2636 Mt. Brook Dr., Mobile, AL 36693. 2006 Dodge Charger 2B3KA43G66H255117 Lagniappe HD May 4, 11, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 4763 Lott Rd., Eight Mile, AL 36613. 2011 Nissan Murano JN8AZ1MU3BW057164 2007 Ford Taurus 1FAFP56U17A191757 2009 Dodge Charger 2B3KA43D59H552955 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 558 S Wilson Ave., Mobile, AL 36617. 1991 Chevrolet Caprice 1G1BL53E6MW122961 2007 Chrysler Sebring 1C3LC46K47N592265 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 1627 Navco Rd., Mobile, AL 36605. 1995 Chevrolet Caprice 1G1BL52W3SR170634 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 7960 Two Mile Rd., Irvington, AL 36544. 2008 Honda Odyssey 5FNRL38728B062482 2003 VW Passat WVWRH63B93P447311 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 4911 Lott Rd., Eight Mile, AL 36613. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier 1G1JC52F257145235 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 508 N Craft Hwy. Chickasaw, AL 36611. 1997 Newmar Kountry 3FCMF53G9VJA10036 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 2571 Government Blvd., Mobile, AL 36606. 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 1B7HC16Y6VJ547692 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 2408 Sans Souci Rd., Mobile, AL 36605. 2004 Honda VFR800 JH2RC46184M600664 2005 Mercedes C230 WDBRF40J95F664631 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 2008 Hathcox St., Mobile, AL 36617. 2013 Dodge Dart 1C3CDFBA4DD321682 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 8213 Kingsridge Rd., Theodore, AL 36582. 1992 GMC Sierra 1GTDC14Z6NE501766 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 8877 Magnolia Trace Dr., Grand Bay, AL 36541. 2003 Ford LGT Convt. 1FTRW076X3KB69743 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 1050 N Hickory S., Loxley, AL 36551. 2002 Dodge Ram Truck 1D7HA18N42S638660 2003 Mazda 6 1YVFP80C335M41749 1996 Chevrolet ‘S’Truck 1GCCS19W0T8130709 1999 Pontiac Grand AM 1G2NE52T5XM704178 Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

The following unclaimed vehicle(s) will be sold on June 16, 2017 - Time - 12pm, if not claimed - at 52394 Lot B McKinley Rd., Perdido, AL 36562. 2000 Chevrolet Blazer 1GNDT13W7Y2314847

Deadline for legal advertising in Lagniappe HD is every Monday at 3 p.m. Lagniappe HD is distributed each Thursday. Lagniappe HD offices are located at 1100B Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36604. For more information or to place your ad call Jackie at 251-450-4466. Or email at legals@lagniappemobile.com

Lagniappe HD May 11, 18, 2017

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