Chelsea and Chance’s Perfect Alabama Wedding Album | Sam & Greg’s: More Than Just Gelato
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July/August 2013
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UPPING THE COOL FACTOR Sam and Greg make so much more than just the best gelato in Huntsville.
BY LAURA ANDERS LEE PORTRAITS BY PATRICK HOOD
MaryJustice Lucas on Monte Sano
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© PATRICK HOOD
Take a trip with our annual roundup of North Alabama’s most promising musicians.
BY CLAIRE STEWART MUSIC REVIEWS BY WILL WHALEY PHOTOS BY PATRICK HOOD AND DANNY MITCHELL
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Shawna P bares her soul in front of millions of viewers on NBC’s “The Voice.”
BY LAURA ANDERS LEE PORTRAITS BY PATRICK HOOD
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Chelsea and Chance have their perfect wedding, and we were there!
PHOTOS BY ARMOSA STUDIOS TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSON
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Driving the stars with Senators Coaches.
BY LAURA ANDERS LEE PHOTOS BY GOODE DETHERO
Giving thanks the oldfashioned way with pen and paper.
BY MICHELLE RUPE EUBANKS
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contents July/August 2013 Volume 2: Issue 4 ••• C. Allen Tomlinson Editor-In-Chief David Sims Creative Director Contributing Writers Amy Collins, Michelle Rupe Eubanks, Sarah Gaede, Laura Anders Lee, David Sims, Claire Stewart, Allen Tomlinson, Will Whaley Contributing Photographers Armosa Studios, Patrick Hood, Ian McCalister, Danny Mitchell Marketing Coordinator/Advertising Sales Heidi King Features Manager Claire Stewart
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Business Manager Roy Hall Graphic Designer Rowan Finnegan Interns Mack Cornwell, Ryan Paine, Will Whaley •••
N O ’A L A H U N T S V I L L E ADV IS ORY B OAR D
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Calendar Events for July-August 2013
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The Vine “Un-Corked” BY AMY COLLINS
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Market Summer Style BY CLAIRE STEWART
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Bless Their Hearts Part of the Club BY DAVID SIMS
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Food for Thought “Bon Appétit!” BY SARAH GAEDE
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LoweDown “What Was Your First Live Concert?” BY CLAIRE STEWART
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Parting Shot
Jennifer Doss Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Leslie Ecklund Burritt on the Mountain Dan Halcomb Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Jeff Johnson Terramé Day Spa & Salon Elizabeth Jones Burritt on the Mountain Ginger Penney Liles Matthew Liles AIDS Action Coalition Patrick Robbins Alabama Pain Center Charles Vaughn Vaughn Lumber Company Anna Baker Warren Anna Baker Warren Interiors
No’Ala Huntsville is published six times annually by No’Ala Press PO Box 2530, Florence, AL 35630 Phone: 800-779-4222 | Fax: 256-766-4106 Web: www.noalapress.com Standard postage paid at Huntsville, AL. A one-year subscription is $19.95 for delivery in the United States. Signed articles reflect only the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their advertisements. © 2008-2013 No’Ala Press, All rights reserved. Send all correspondence to Allen Tomlinson, Editor, at the postal address above, or by e-mail to atomlinson@atsa-usa.com. Letters may be edited for space and style. To advertise, contact us at: 256-766-4222, or sales@noalapress.com. The editor will provide writer’s guidelines upon request. Prospective authors should not submit unsolicited manuscripts; please query the editor first.
No’Ala Huntsville is printed with vegetable-based inks on 100% recycled paper.
BY ARMOSA STUDIOS Join us on Facebook: No’Ala Huntsville
editor’s letter « Allen Tomlinson « 7 What could be better than a late spring wedding? On May 19th, No’Ala Huntsville and a host of presenting partners put together the Alabama Perfect Wedding at the Baron Bluff event center at Burritt on the Mountain. The day was beautiful, the gown was stunning, the flowers and details were perfect, the food was delicious, and the couple was radiant. Every piece seemed to fall in place, and for those who attended, it truly was perfect in every way. We’ll give you a look in this issue, and we think you’ll agree! Welcome to our annual Entertainment issue. This is our chance to present the bright, young, up-and-coming musicians who are beginning to make names for themselves. We want to introduce you to them, and so that you can really fall in love with their music, subscribers will find a bonus CD with a track from each act enclosed with your magazine. (If you are not a subscriber, there is a limited number of CDs available at our office at Lowe Mill—drop by and ask for one, for free.) Singer Shawna P, a competitor on the popular television show The Voice, is also featured, and was generous enough to give us one of her tracks as well. Enjoy! This time, the issue is not just about entertainment—we decided to make it about entertaining as well. Our retail buyer’s guide features art and accessories from the artists at Lowe Mill, and we’ll introduce you to Senators Coaches, the people who are responsible for transporting some of the biggest names in show business on their nationwide tours. We’ll introduce you to some of the most delicious ice cream in the Valley, too; there’s a lot to entertain you in this Entertainment issue! You may have noticed a design change in our masthead, beginning with this issue. We produce a sister publication in the Shoals, also known as No’Ala Magazine, and many of our readers like each one so much that they subscribe to both. That creates a little confusion; in addition, we felt that our name needed to emphasize the largest and most vibrant metropolis in North Alabama, as well as the other cities—Athens, Decatur, and Madison—to name just three—that make up this unique place to live. Nothing else is changing; we’ll continue to bring you the best stories, in words and pictures, about all of North Alabama. Our name will just anchor us more firmly right here at home! Summer in the Valley is fun, partly because of the long, hot and humid days that are perfect for outdoor concerts, special events and spontaneous front-porch parties. We hope yours is a safe and happy one—and we thank you for patronizing our advertisers. Now grab a cold glass of sweet tea and enjoy this issue!
We felt that our name needed to emphasize the largest and most vibrant metropolis in North Alabama, as well as the other cities—Decatur, Athens, and Madison—to name just three—that make up this unique place to live.
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calendar
Now through July 31 Special Exhibit: Black Holes: Space Warps & Time Twists Daily from 9:00am-5:00pm; U.S. Space and Rocket Center; One Tranquility Base; $25 adults, $20 children, and free under 5 years old; (256) 837-3400; rocketcenter.com Now through August 3 Memories of World War II/Photography from the Archives of the Associated Press & Heritage Quilters Members Exhibition Tues-Sat 11:00am-4:00pm and until 8:00pm on Thurs, and Sun1:00pm-4:00pm; $10 admission for adults, $8 for military, students, teachers, and students, and $5 for children 6-11; Huntsville Museum of Art; 300 Church St.; (256) 535-4350; hsvmuseum.org Now through August 31 Alabama Inventors & The Whimsical Woods Tues-Sat 9:00am-5:00pm; Sun noon-5:00pm; $8 adults, $7 seniors and military, $5 students, $4 children; Burritt on the Mountain; 3101 Burritt Dr.; (256) 536-2882; burrittonthemountain.com Now through September 22 Connections: Gary Chapman/Carolyn Sherer Tues-Sat 11:00am-4:00pm and until 8:00pm on Thurs, and Sun1:00pm-4:00pm; $10 for adults, $8 for military, students, teachers, and students, and $5 for children 6-11; Huntsville Museum of Art; 300 Church St.; (256) 535-4350; hsvmuseum.org Now through Fall Wade Wharton Exhibit & Little Garden Little Me 8:00am-2:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Botanical Garden; 4747 Bob Wallace Ave.; (256) 582-5259; hsvbg.org July 1-21 Psychedelic Mania: Stephen Rolfe Powell’s Dance with Glass Tues-Sat 11:00am-4:00pm and until 8:00pm on Thurs, and Sun1:00pm-4:00pm; $10 admission for adults, $8 for military, students, teachers, and students, and $5 for children 6-11; Huntsville Museum of Art; 300 Church St.; (256) 535-4350; hsvmuseum.org
City Lights Concert Series at Burritt on the Mountain 7:30pm; $10/members; $12/in advance or $15/non-members; 3101 Burritt Dr.; (256) 536-2882; burrittonthemountain.com Monkey Speak Open Mic Night 8:00pm; $5; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; flyingmonkeyarts.org July 6 Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net July 8 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park; Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Concerts in the Park: Jimmy Henderson & Bourbon and Shamrocks 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org July 11 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; reenestreetmarket.com Dine and Dash Trolley Tour 6:00pm; $30; Various locations; (256) 683-0966; homegrownhuntsville.com Thursday Night Concerts at the Library 6:00pm; Free; 915 Monroe St.; (256) 532-5940; hmcpl.org Beloved Book Club 7:30pm; Free; Beloved Books and Gallery at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net July 12-14 Theatre Huntsville Presents 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Fri and Sat 7:30pm and Sun 2:00pm; $20 adults and $18 students; Von Braun Center Playhouse; 700 Monroe St.; (256) 536-0807; yourseatiswaiting.org
July 1 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park; Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org
July 12-13 Greater Tennessee Valley Car Show Point Mallard Park; decaturcvb.org
Concerts in the Park: Strings of Pearl and Olde Town Brass 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org
July 13 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org
July 4 Spirit of America Festival Daytime festivities ending in fireworks; Free; Point Mallard Park; Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org
Train Excursion: Freedom Express 10:00am; Admission charged; North Alabama Railroad Museum; 694 Chase Rd.; (256) 683-7953; huntsville.org
Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; (256) 682-4429; greenestreetmarket.com July 5 Sci-Quest Parents’ Night Out 6:00pm-10:00pm; $20 for first child, $15 for additional children ages 4-12; 102 D Wynn Dr.; (256) 837-0606; sci-quest.org
Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net Spring Concert at Three Caves 7:00pm-10:00pm; Admission charged; Historic Three Caves; (256) 534-5265; huntsville.org 1818 Farms Presents its Farm to Table Dinner 6:30pm; $120; 1818 Farms; 24889 Lauderdale St., Mooresville; (256) 714-3220; 1818farms.com
July 13-14 Huckfest 8:00am-4:00pm; Free; Jack Allen Recreational Complex; (256) 341-4934; decaturcvb.org July 15 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park, Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Concerts in the Park: The Ben Parker Project & Disc Oasis 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org July 15-19 Camp Princess Theatre on Stage Daily; Admission charged; Princess Theatre, 112 2nd Ave.; Decatur; (256) 350-1745; princesstheatre.org July 18 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; greenestreetmarket.com Sidewalk Arts Stroll: A Downtown Marketplace 4:30pm; Free; Courthouse Square, Huntsville; (256) 534-8376; sidewalkartsstroll.com Space Exploration Celebration 5:00pm-9:00pm; Admission charged; U.S. Space & Rocket Center; One Tranquility Base; (256) 721-5409; rocketcenter.com
July 18-20 Theatre Huntsville Presents 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Fri and Sat 7:30pm and Sun 2:00pm; $20 adults and $18 students; Von Braun Center Playhouse; 700 Monroe St.; (256) 536-0807; yourseatiswaiting.org July 19 Third Fridays Downtown 4:30pm; Free; Bank St. and 2nd Ave., Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Movies in the Park: Rise of the Guardians Dusk; Free; Founder’s Park; Decatur; (256) 341-4930; decaturcvb.org July 20 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org Wet Dog Triathlon 7:00am; From $50; Point Mallard Park; (256) 353-0157; decaturcvb.org Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net Drop In and Create Noon; Free; Huntsville Museum of Art; 300 Church St.; (256) 535-4350; hsvmuseum.org
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Sci-Quest Parents’ Night Out 6:00pm-10:00pm; $20 for first child, $15 for additional children ages 4-12; 102 D Wynn Dr.; (256) 837-0606; sci-quest.org Huntsville Swing Dance 7:00pm-11:00pm; $10 general and $7 students; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
July 26-28 The Huntsville Community Chorus Presents The Music Man Fri 7:30pm; Sat 2:00pm and 7:30pm; Sun 2:00pm; Admission charged; Von Braun Center Playhouse; 700 Monroe St.; (256) 533-6606; thechorus.org Drum Corp International Competition Fri 7:30pm; Sat 2:00pm and 7:30pm; Sun 2:00pm; Admission charged; Louis Crews Stadium at Alabama A&M; (256) 372-5654; aamu.edu
An Evening with Yes 8:00pm; from $36; Von Braun Center Concert Hall; 700 N. Monroe St.; (800) 745-3000; ticketmaster.com
July 27 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org
Alabama Occupational Therapy Association Social 4:00pm-6:00pm; Admission charged; Pin Palace; 2006 Country Club Ave NW; (256) 509-4398
Train Excursion: The Patriot 10:00am; Admission charged; North Alabama Railroad Museum; 694 Chase Rd.; (256) 683-7953; huntsville.org
July 20-Aug. 4 Greater Huntsville Humane Society’s Pet Photo Calendar Contest Free to vote or $10 to enter; Parkway Place Mall; 2801 Memorial Pkwy SW; (256) 881-8081; calendarcontest.org
Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
July 22 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park; Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Concerts in the Park: U.S. Army Materiel Command Bands 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org July 24 Art Critique 6:00pm; $7; Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net July 25 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; greenestreetmarket.com Thursday Night Concerts at the Library 6:00pm; Free; 915 Monroe St.; (256) 532-5940; hmcpl.org July 26 City Lights Concert Series at Burritt on the Mountain 7:30pm; $10/members; $12/in advance or $15/non-members; 3101 Burritt Dr.; (256) 536-2882; burrittonthemountain.com Epic Comedy Hour 8:00pm; $7; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
Concerts by the River Decatur
July 29 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park; Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Step Heavy & Jeff Whitlow and the Old Barn Band 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org August 1 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; greenestreetmarket.com Cocktails and Dogtails 5:00pm-8:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Botanical Garden; 4747 Bob Wallace Ave.; (256) 830-4447; hsvbg.org August 2 Story Time at Riverwild 1:00pm; Free; Delano Park; Decatur; (256) 341-4930; delanopark.org Sci-Quest Parents’ Night Out 6:00pm-10:00pm; $20 for first child, $15 for additional children ages 4-12; 102 D Wynn Dr.; (256) 837-0606; sci-quest.org Monkey Speak Open Mic Night 8:00pm; $5; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; flyingmonkeyarts.org August 2-3 The Huntsville Community Chorus Presents The Music Man Fri 7:30pm; Sat 2:00pm and 7:00pm; Admission charged; Von Braun Center Playhouse; 700 Monroe St.; (256) 533-6606; thechorus.org August 3 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net Movies in the Park: The Odd Life of Timothy Green Dusk; Free; Delano Park; Decatur; (256) 341-4930; delanopark.org
August 4 WZYP Bridal Fair 1:00pm-5:00pm; Free for brides; Von Braun Center North Hall; 700 N. Monroe St.; (256) 830-8300; huntsville.org August 5 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park, Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Concerts in the Park: Winslow Davis & Mambo Gris Gris 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org August 7 Kathy Griffin 7:30pm; from $45; Von Braun Center Concert Hall; 700 N. Monroe St.; (800) 745-3000; ticketmaster.com August 8 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; greenestreetmarket.com Cocktails and Dogtails 5:00pm-8:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Botanical Garden; 4747 Bob Wallace Ave.; (256) 830-4447; hsvbg.org Dine and Dash Trolley Tour 6:00pm; $30; Various locations; (256) 683-0966; homegrownhuntsville.com Thursday Night Concerts at the Library 6:00pm; Free; 915 Monroe St.; (256) 532-5940; hmcpl.org Beloved Book Club 7:30pm; Free; Beloved Books and Gallery at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net August 9 Jim Parker’s Songwriters Series 6:30pm; From $25; Von Braun Center Playhouse, 700 Monroe St.; (256) 533-1953; jimparkermusic.com August 10 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org Dog Days Express 10:00am; Admission charged; North Alabama Railroad Museum; 694 Chase Rd.; (256) 683-7953; huntsville.org Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net August 12 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park; Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org Concerts in the Park: Ashley Smith and the Rocket City Jazz Orchestra 6:30pm-8:00pm; Free; Big Spring Park; Arts Council and City of Huntsville’s Department of Parks and Recreation; artshuntsville.org August 13-September 21 Carnegie Visual Arts Center Presents Embracing Art: A Coming Together of Area Amateur and Professional Artists
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calendar
Green U Environmental Festival 9:00am-3:00pm; Free with five recycled products; Huntsville Botanical Gardens; 4747 Bob Wallace Ave.; (256) 830-4447; hsvbg.org
Tues-Fri 10:00am-5:00pm and Sat 10:00am-2:00pm; Free admission; Carnegie Visual Arts Center; 207 Church St., Decatur; (256) 341-0562; carnegiearts.org
Dog Days Express 10:00am; Admission charged; North Alabama Railroad Museum; 694 Chase Rd.; (256) 683-7953; huntsville.org
August 15 Arts Stroll by Arts & Entertainment District and Greene Street Market 4:30pm-Dark; Free; 109 Gates Ave.; (256) 534-8376; sidewalkartstroll.com
Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
Cocktails and Dogtails 5:00pm-8:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Botanical Garden; 4747 Bob Wallace Ave.; (256) 830-4447; hsvbg.org August 16 Third Fridays Downtown 4:30pm; Free; Bank St. and 2nd Ave., Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org City Lights Concert Series at Burritt on the Mountain 7:30pm; $10/members; $12/in advance or $15/non-members; 3101 Burritt Dr.; (256) 536-2882; burrittonthemountain.com August 17 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
Elvis Remembered 2:00pm and 8:00pm; Admission charged; 112 2nd Ave.; Decatur; (256) 350-1745; princesstheatre.org August 25 Kitchens for CASA 1:00pm-5:00pm; Admission charged; (256) 533-7775; casamadisoncounty.com
Every Thursday
Greene Street Market
August 26 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park, Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org
Sci-Quest Parents’ Night Out 6:00pm-10:00pm; $20 for first child, $15 for additional children ages 4-12; 102 D Wynn Dr.; (256) 837-0606; sci-quest.org
August 28 Art Critique 6:00pm; $7; Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
The American Cancer Society Presents: A Summer Lights Celebration 6:30pm; From $125; Von Braun Center; 700 N. Monroe St.; (256) 536-1863; summerlightscelebration.org
August 29 Cocktails and Dogtails 5:00pm-8:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Botanical Garden; 4747 Bob Wallace Ave.; (256) 830-4447; hsvbg.org
Rocket City Jazz Orchestra 7:00pm; Admission charged; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
August 29 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; greenestreetmarket.com
August 19 Concerts by the River 6:00pm; Free; Rhodes Ferry Park, Decatur; (256) 350-2028; decaturcvb.org August 22 Greene Street Market 4:00pm-8:00pm; Free; 208 Eustis Ave. at Greene St.; greenestreetmarket.com Thursday Night Concerts at the Library 6:00pm; Free; 915 Monroe St.; (256) 532-5940; hmcpl.org August 23 Fantasia Barrino 8:30pm; From $59.50; Von Braun Center Concert Hall; 700 N. Monroe St.; (800) 745-3000; ticketmaster.com August 24 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org
Greater Huntsville Humane Society’s Book Release Party for “Second Chances: Rescue Dogs of Madison County” 6:30pm-9:30pm; Admission charged; Baron’s Bluff at the Burritt Museum; (256) 426-2183 August 29-31 Northeast Alabama State Fair Thurs 6:00pm-11:00pm; Fri 6:00pm-1:00am; Sat 2:00pm-11:00pm; Admission charged; John Hunt Park; (256) 883-5252; huntsville.org August 31 Madison City Farmers Market 8:00am-noon; Free; Discovery Middle School; 1282 Hughes Rd.; (256) 656-7841; huntsville.org Artist Market Noon-4:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey at Lowe Mill; 2211 Seminole Dr.; (256) 533-0399; lowemill.net
Presenting our 59th Season: • Robert McDuffie renowned violinist – Friday, October 4 7:30 p.m. • La Bohéme in concert – Friday, November 15 7:30 p.m. • Tiempo Libre Cuban jazz for New Year’s Eve – Tuesday, December 31 7:30 p.m. • Béla Fleck the world’s greatest banjo player – Saturday, January 11 7:30 p.m. • Disney’s Pixar films and music – Saturday, January 18 7:00 p.m. ….and that’s just the first half of our season!
Season tickets now on sale - for more information, visit www.hso.org or call 256-539-4818
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the vine » Amy Collins Detecting cork taint requires practice, especially when it occurs in low levels. Not all noses are the same, and some of us are better at picking up corkiness than others.
“Un-Corked” YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED THE INFLUX OF SCREW CAPS ON WINE BOTTLES OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS. For many of us, initial reaction was a subtle recoil with a touch of snobbery. Screw caps on wine bottles meant it had to be cheap. The restaurant experience lost its romance when, instead of witnessing the twist of a fresh-hewn cork, the waiter or sommelier simply popped the top like the cap of a vinegar bottle. Fortunately, we humans are an adaptable lot, and the industry-wide switch to screw cap and synthetic closures has saved bottles upon bottles of precious vino. Cork taint, corky, corkiness, or corked, is the most common flaw that can occur in wine, making it a disappointing drink when mildly affected, and absolutely unpalatable at high levels. When very minor, cork taint will suppress aromatics and flatten any fruit qualities, making the wine insipid and boring. At its worst, cork taint will make a wine smell of musty basement, wet cardboard, or even wet dog. It won’t hurt you to imbibe, but it’s an unpleasant experience and best avoided. TCA, (2,4,6-trichloroanisole) or cork taint, is a bacteria that grows from a fungi living in the bark of cork trees, the source of real cork closures. The bark and cork closures are porous, like all wood, which makes them ideal stoppers for wines meant to be cellared and aged a few years, as the slow exchange of oxygen in the wine allows it to develop secondary and tertiary characteristics. In other words, the wine gets more interesting with a little age. The risk lies with those little holes and the fungi that live in them, most of which will never develop into the undesirable TCA bacteria. But for short-lived wines, young sippers intended for consumption within a year or two, the risk is much higher because you want the wine to be fresh and vibrant and devoid of oxygen’s influence, thus the gamble is greater. In the early 2000s an estimated 8 to 10 percent of all wines with cork closures were affected with TCA. That’s a sizable profit loss for the wine producer. Detecting cork taint requires practice, especially when it occurs in low levels. Not all noses are the same and some of us are better at picking up corkiness than others. It can start slow and subtle, but grow to a distinct offensive mustiness as the bottle drains and the oxygen to surface ration changes, enhancing the flaw. I’ve opened bottles my guests don’t mind at all, but which I can’t tolerate because I smell and taste the taint while they cannot. I’ve had bottles that reeked from the moment the cork was lifted, wafting across the room where trained noses declared “corked!” as if it were a game of bingo. And I’ve argued, nearly brawled, with other wine professionals over whether a bottle is or isn’t. But given new standards in cork processing and the consumer’s willingness to accept Stelvin (screw cap) closures on their bottles, the cork taint numbers are down, hovering around one to two percent.
It’s important to understand cork taint. If you open a bottle at home you think might be flawed—maybe it’s the first time you’ve tasted the wine, or maybe it’s an old favorite that no longer has the juicy fruit flavors you remember—it’s not a total loss. The bad bottle can be returned to the store for credit, or a replacement bottle. Flawed wine will eventually be billed back to the producer, who takes full responsibility for the undrinkable product. When eating in nice restaurants, if you order a bottle, the waiter or sommelier will present the wine, pointing out the name of the wine, the type, and the vintage, then pour a taste for the person who ordered the bottle. This is not to ask if you like the wine, but to deem it “clean” and unflawed. If the wine smells musty, it’s likely corked, and should be denied. Usually, the next bottle will be fine. Occasionally, several bottles of the same wine might be tainted, which is probably a larger problem within the winery, as certain chlorine based cleaners can agitate TCA and infect an entire barrel or container. But this is a rare case. So as you practice detecting cork taint while wandering through your neighbor’s basement or exploring that wet pile of cardboard on the side of the road, remember, it takes time to develop a sense memory. Meanwhile, embrace the screw cap and rest assured your wine will be absent of wet dog. Here are a few of my favorite screw-capped cuvées:
Beginner’s Sipper (under $20) Petit Chapeau Macon-Villages 2011—100% unoaked Chardonnay. Medium body with good acidity and a natural richness. Classic (affordable) white Burgundy.
Knows Just Enough to Make Trouble ($20-$35) Walnut City Wine Works Pinot Noir 2010—super light Willamette Valley cuvée with cherry fruit, good acidity, and soft tannins.
High Roller’s Cuveé ($50+) Palie Wine Co. ‘Windsor Oaks’ Pinot Noir 2010— classic Russian Rivery Valley Pinot, rich and powerful. A big wine for big drinkers.
Follow Amy, a North Alabamian, at www.pigandvine.com for more stories and wine suggestions.
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Diana Finley, Martha Collins, and Cathy Lee Bobsy Ingram, Kathy Ludwig Gwyn Potter and Joanne Horn Sara Brock Amelia Summerville, and Brenda Milberger
Michele Campbell, and Cathy Lee
Robin Jennings, Linda Powell, and Tomalyn Dombrowski
Tabby Ragland Photos Courtesy of Martha Collins
Above: Carillon Club Afternoon Party
Below: Huntsville Derby Benefitting the Harris Home
The social service organization’s annual social event for club members and friends M AY 9, 2013 HOME OF JOANNE HORN, HUNTSVILLE
M AY 8, 2013
Cindi Peters, Rebecca Rogers, and Carrie Burke Everett & Melanie Brooks, and Pat & Bob Brooks Lauren Battle and Carolyn Lankford
Cindi Peters, Mary Ellen Peters, and Melinda Hamilton
Megan Fulton, Craig Paulus, and Cindi Peters
John Hearne
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Alexandra Parker (left) and Holly Rush dole out summer’s sweetest treat.
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UPPING THECOOL FACTOR SAM AND GREG HATHORN ARE MAKING MORE THAN GELATO FOR DOWNTOWN HUNTSVILLE— THEY’RE MAKING AN IMPACT.
TEXT BY L AURA ANDERS LEE PHOTOS BY PATRICK HOOD
IT’S SUMMERTIME. School’s out. Schedules relax. Warm days linger. And if life weren’t sweet enough already, July is national ice cream month. It’s the perfect excuse to celebrate with a bowl (or two) of America’s favorite treat. Sam and Greg’s on Huntsville’s Courthouse Square doesn’t make ice cream, they make gelato, and the very best of the best at that. “Gelato has less air so it’s creamier, it has less butter fat, so it’s healthier, and it’s made with all natural ingredients,” says Sam and Greg’s Holly Rush, the resident “gelato artist” who hand selects ingredients from local farmers, Greene Street Market, and even her aunt’s pear tree. “Right now we have honey goat cheese, lavender, fig walnut, peach Sriracha, blueberry sorbet…” Holly rattles off. “Of course there are traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, birthday cake, and pistachio, but a lot of people get excited about trying something new and exotic. It’s like traveling to a different country.” The café was the dream of Sam Hathorn’s, who lived in Italy her senior year in high school as a military daughter and fell in love with the gelato there. She eventually ended up in Huntsville as a graphic artist at Sirsi, where she met her husband Greg, a software engineer and company vice president. “One day we just decided we’d had enough of the software business,” says Greg. “This place came up for lease, and we decided to go for it.”
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The couple launched a campaign to better downtown, even building a website to garner support.
“We loved the square, and we wanted to open an eatery, with pizza, coffee, and of course gelato,” Sam adds. That was in 2007, before downtown had really taken off. Many office buildings remained vacant, and the few restaurants that were open really only served the business crowd. But Sam and Greg, who live just five blocks away from the shop, put their faith and their pocketbook in the neighborhood. The couple launched a campaign to better downtown, even building a website to garner support. Their ideas generated frontpage coverage in the Huntsville Times. “For the first few years, we were kept open by our neighborhood, by great people who appreciate Downtown Huntsville,” says Sam. “Now we have people from all over.” “Today, downtown is more vibrant,” adds Greg. “There’s more feet on the street. We have a really good following, and now we’re open seven days a week. We couldn’t be more pleased.” Sam and Greg have not just opened a restaurant, but have created a greater sense of community. On any given week, couples come in for date night, families stroll up from Big Spring Park, college students hover over books, dogs stretch out on the patio, and children decorate the front stoop with sidewalk chalk, while Holly and her co-worker Alexandra Parker dole out 36 gallons of gelato. Holly, who is a philosophy and psychology student at UAH, understands the healing power of the frozen treat and the love that goes into making it. “Gelato is very comforting,” she says. “It’s a bonding experience for families and couples. It brings people together.” Look for Sam and Greg’s new Madison location opening soon.
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TEXT BY CLAIRE STEWART » PHOTOS BY PATRICK HOOD & DANNY MITCHELL MUSIC COMMENTARY BY WILL WHALEY
Road trips and great music go hand-in-hand. So, when you hit the road this summer, we recommend you let these North Alabama musicians take you home. Read about nine new acts who are well on their journey to the big time. Grace & Tony · The Local Saints · MaryJustice Lucas · Cold Cold Sweats · The Pollies Saints Don’t Grieve · Matt Morrow · The Wildwood Ruminators · The Pyles
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Grace & Tony were photographed on North Court Street, downtown Florence, Alabama. PHOTO BY PATRICK HOOD
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Because of their varied backgrounds, you would probably think Grace Shultz and Tony White’s paths would never cross, much less produce the musical marriage it did. After all, he was playing in a punk band out of Columbia, Tennessee and she was playing in bluegrass bands in the same area. Tony admits to his admiration of her music: “I had seen Grace play years ago, and I was not only impressed, I developed a serious secret crush. When I noticed on Facebook that she was learning mandolin and banjo, I took a shot and asked her to come jam. We fell in love, and the music just followed.” Because they are from such different backgrounds, it is hard to believe how easily the music comes to them, and even more remarkable to hear the unforced blending of the genres in each of their songs. They call this fusion “Punkgrass,” and it seems to fit appropriately. While Tony brings the rough melodies and riffs to the songwriting table, Grace is able to fill in the rest with her narrative lyrics and foot-stomping banjo picking. “We think our sound definitely sets us apart—it is dark, yet happy; silly, yet serious; and it is a whole lot of fun to play,” Tony says. Though they are from smaller towns in southern Tennessee, the duo started busking together (playing for tips in public places) on the streets of downtown Nashville. They really had no idea where, if anywhere, their music career was going to go. “It is a very unpredictable way to perform,” she says. “There were times when people would pass by without even a glance, and other times a small group would gather, and we would play our hearts out hoping they would stay!” One of those nights, a man asked them to play a song for him. Thirty seconds into the song, he started messing with his phone. This peeved Grace and Tony a bit, until he admitted he was with Balcony TV, and he was texting his boss about how much he liked their music. “We were shocked! At this point in our career we weren’t even able to book a concert in our own small town, but this TV producer wanted to feature us on his show,” Tony says with a smile. From then on, things have only gone up for the two. They received positive press last year when The Country Network in Nashville began playing the video for their song, “Let You Down.” They later shot their video for “November” in downtown Florence. The two wanted to make sure to get some shots inside Rivertown Coffee Company, where they were allowed to play before they were known in the Shoals music scene. The songs on their first EP, Inside a 7 Track Mind, seem to tell stories, which Tony says you can blame on Grace’s writing background. “She loves to read, especially murder mysteries. I think that is where the storybook style of our songs comes from.” The songs tell stories of murder, unrequited love, family shame, and infidelity. This March, they released their album November in their hometown and were finally received with the sold-out concert they deserved. With their music on the rise, they also have some great news in their personal lives— the two are set to be married on July 27 of this year.
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“November” This song gets its roots from country pop, but as Tony explains, the duo has started a new genre: Punkgrass. Paying homage to artists such as Lady Antebellum, The Band Perry, and Little Big Town, Grace and Tony deliver well-crafted song lyrics and a driving, upbeat tempo with “November.” Grace and Tony’s harmony also pays tribute to another Shoals band, The Civil Wars. Maybe there’s a reason? Tony and John Paul White, from The Civil Wars, are brothers.
The Local Saints were photographed in Seven Points, Florence, Alabama, near the building where they recorded their first album. PHOTO BY PATRICK HOOD
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Growing up in an area so rich with Muscle Shoals music definitely helped The Local Saints find their niche in the Shoals. Though it took each of the members a little time to travel and play with a few other bands, Jamie McFarlane, Rob McFarlane, Justin Holder, Chad Burdine, and Zach Walton seem to have found their perfect rhythm in The Local Saints. After graduating from high schools around the Shoals, each of these members went their own way in the music world. Justin, Rob, and Jamie played in bands throughout Alabama and North Carolina, usually backing up other musicians. Chad played for three years with the band Eyes Around and even went on a USO Tour through Japan and South Korea with the band Halo Stereo. Zach grew up in Rogersville and started playing keyboard for bands like The Late Blumers and Pine Street Jams in the Shoals. But early last year, the homegrown Shoals boys came together to create what they now agree is their main project, as well as their favorite. The inspiration for the band’s unusual name comes from the members’ parents, all of whom are pastors or active members in their church. Rob says, “Growing up in the Bible Belt will make you feel like you need to be little saints all the time.” Though they admit they may not carry the same ‘saintly’ qualities as their parents, they can’t deny their upbringing made them the musicians they are now. “Muscle Shoals musicians David Hood and Roger Hawkins have played a big part in my musical development,” Jamie says. “Being able to watch them record during my younger years influenced me greatly.” The two McFarlane brothers come by their talent pretty naturally though: their father, Will, is one of the original members of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. Both Rob and Jamie credit him as one of their biggest influences. The Local Saints pride themselves on incorporating some of that Muscle Shoals sound into their music—with a twist. Chad tries to sum it up as “Muscle Shoals meets indie rock with a love ballad or two.” They also attribute much of their subject matter to their upbringing in the Shoals. “We sing about life and love, and sometimes whiskey, and we might throw in a dog or a train, or an angry girl, because we are from the South and that is how we live,” they joke. Earlier this year, The Local Saints were able to perform at The Stage On Sixth Patio in Austin, Texas, as part of The Muscle Shoals Showcase at the South by Southwest Festival, along with other artists from the area. They agreed it was a great experience professionally and personally because it was an amazing way to represent their hometown. Their latest EP, released this April, was met with huge support at their album release party, which featured music from Dillon Hodges and The Bear, as well. Now that they are back in the studio, drummer Justin Holder says that is where the band shines. “I love our sessions in the studio. Performing live is a momentary thing, but a recording is forever, and I love that.” They are back in the studio for a while and recording music for their next project at Noiseblock Studio with the help of Chris Bethea and Matt Johnson. “Our goal is to get out there and let the music do what it does,” Jamie says. “We definitely don’t want to hold back, and we hope to create something special. This project is all or nothing for us.” While these guys have ventured through many musical endeavors in the past, all of the members agree that being able to play with their best friends is a pretty sweet gig. The Local Saints, from left to right: Chad Burdine, Jamie McFarlane, Justin Holder (in back), Zach Walton (in front), and Rob McFarlane
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“Don’t Stop Now” This upbeat song conveys a positive message and is presented with a Southern rock flair. In fact, the vocals remind you of Aaron Lewis, from Staind, on more of a country rock level. It’s a catchy piece and the listener won’t want to stop…listening to The Local Saints.
MaryJustice Lucas was photographed atop Monte Sano in Huntsville, Alabama, near her grandparents’ home. PHOTO BY PATRICK HOOD
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You could say MaryJustice Lucas started at a young age—but because she’s only 18 now, it wasn’t all that long ago. You could also say she came by her talent naturally: she remembers going to see plays from the Broadway Theatre League when she was as young as three, and she heard Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Patty Griffin, Etta James, Elvis Presley, and Journey being played throughout her childhood. She wrote her first song when she was five. Her mother would pick her up from daycare, and as she belted out some of her own lyrics in the backseat, her mom started to write them down. Eventually, she started to sing them into a pocket stereo recorder. It was no surprise when she started performing her music for live audiences in coffeehouses when she was 11…but after all, that was only seven years ago. Though she just turned 18, don’t be fooled by her age; she has accomplished a lot in her few years on the music scene. She won first place for songwriting at the Mountain Valley Arts competition, placed in the top ten in the 2010 iSing! Competition in Los Angeles when she was just 14, and most recently won multiple awards at the North American Country Music Association competition in Pigeon Forge last year. She was named 2012 Rising Star CD of the Year, 2012 Songwriter of the Year, and 2012 Female Entertainer of the Year. “Every time my name was called, I thought I was dreaming,” she confesses, “and that is something I will never forget!” One of her biggest honors was being invited to open for Jim Parker’s Songwriter Showcase at the VBC Playhouse last year—which she reveals she did with a 102 degree fever. “I was NOT going to cancel opening this show,” she says. “I don’t remember anything from when I performed, but I was told I did well!” She recently finished up an EP of original songs, and she had some good company to help—another one of our featured artists, Matt Morrow. She brags a little on her friend: “My oh-so-talented singer/songwriter friend Matt Morrow was so kind to do a little arranging, recording, and engineering, as well as adding some instrumentals and a couple harmonies to the tracks.” Matt and MaryJustice have done multiple shows together around North Alabama and seem to have perfectly blended vocals when they team up on songs. “Matt hears my songs the way I do,” she admits “so he just adds a little ‘kick’ to them.” MaryJustice has had a big start to her career at such an early age, but her goal is just to stay on the path she is on now. “I write and I sing because I can’t stop. It’s part of me. It’s like oxygen for me. Even if I only sing in coffee shops for the rest of my life, as long as I continue to write songs that make people feel something, then I am happy.” We can hardly wait to see what the next 18 years will bring.
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“So Much More” MaryJustice Lucas’s voice is sweet and pure and sounds a little like artists Priscilla Ahn, Norah Jones, Missy Higgins, and Alison Krauss. MaryJustice pulls inspiration from the acoustic and vocal sounds that portray an intimate, personal setting and especially with “So Much More.”
The Cold Cold Sweats were photographed in front of the house on Wood Avenue, Florence, Alabama, where they recorded some of their first songs. PHOTO BY DANNY MITCHELL
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You may have heard this group of guys perform under the name Rhyal Knight Band, or you may recognize them from a performance under their current moniker, Cold Cold Sweats. The group that began life as the Rhyal Knight Band has reinvented itself with a couple of new members. But if the names are tough to keep track of, just close your eyes and concentrate on the music—there is a distinct difference in the Cold Cold Sweats. In late June of 2010, as RKB, three of these band members shared the stage for the first time together at the Spirit of Freedom Celebration at McFarland Park. After an impressive show that received copious praise, the group hit the studio at the end of the year and recorded their debut LP, In Transit. The group gigged around the Southeast for a year, in between going to classes at their respective colleges, and soon began writing new material with a fresh vibe. They put out a 4-track EP, Good Vibes, and decided on the name Cold Cold Sweats. The official members of the current band are Rhyal Knight, Siler Head, Davis Sandlin, Quinn Stanphill, and Luke Wright. The Cold Cold Sweats say they thrive on their distinctiveness. “We dig up inspiration from our passion for creating groovy, never-before-heard sounds,” says Quinn. Though the group says they are influenced by groups like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Mayer, and Radiohead, the group is looking to bring something completely different to this area. “I would say we fall into the AAA [adult album alternative] genre, because of our indie rock and alternative influences,” guitarist Siler Head explains. “While our sound originated with Americana influences, it has since evolved into a more rock format.” As for the new name, it was chosen to better represent the new sound the band has. “It reflects the new edge AAA, with an ambient electric sound and soulful lyrics” says Siler. However you define their sound, fans seem to love it. Last year, the group was asked to play at the Sowega Georgia Throwdown, where they brushed elbows with other big-name acts like Drive-By Truckers and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Earlier this year, the group played at Birmingham-Southern’s SOCO Music Fest before country star Jerrod Niemann. Another exciting moment for the Cold Cold Sweats was when their song “Whisper” began circulating on well-read music blogs around the Nashville area. Right now, the group is recording a full-length album at Gary Baker’s Noiseblock Studio, courtesy of Singing River Records, with the engineering help of Chris Bethea. Rhyal says this is a really great time for the group and things can only get better. “We are sitting on a pile of new material with fresh sounds that will be a bit of a departure from our previous releases; we’re incorporating bigger, more ambient sounds into our tunes,” he says. “We are really excited to be operating under our new band name and plan on using the name change as a chance to experiment with new sounds in the studio and redefine our musical image.”
Cold Cold Sweats, front row: Quinn Stanphill, Siler Head, and Rhyal Knight; Back row: Davis Sandlin and Luke Wright
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“Whisper” The driving acoustics and Southern rock undertones will make you want to sing along to “Whisper.” Cold Cold Sweats really show off their guitarist’s skills in this piece and showcase a blend of different genres: funk, Southern rock, and soul—all from a singer who will remind you of artists like John Mayer and Adam Duritz of Counting Crows.
The Pollies were photographed at their studio in Killen, Alabama. PHOTO BY DANNY MITCHELL
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There are a lot of words you could use to describe Where the Lies Begin, The Pollies’ debut album. Brooding. Daring. Haunting. Bold. All of these would work. But two things you can’t say about it is that it was hasty or thoughtless—this album is the culmination of years of musical introspection. Where the Lies Begin slowly evolved in the back of the minds of Jay Burgess and Chris James for years as they played together in bands throughout the area. They were so familiar with one another’s creative process, the music just seemed to flow through them when they wrote together. And although Jay and Chris loved the songs their writing sessions produced, the songs didn’t feel appropriate for the bands they were playing with at the time. So when their respective bands decided to take a break, Jay and Chris used their free time to perfect their side work. Where the Lies Begin is the result. It runs the gamut of emotions and life experiences of youth—everything from melancholy love ballads to upbeat tunes about coming home from a long absence. Chris sums up the long process of writing the album in just a few words: “After that break, we spent a couple years refining the songs and recordings, started playing shows, went through a few line-up changes, and ended with a solid group of talented friends.” All of that labor developed into what we now know as The Pollies. Those talented friends Chris mentions are Matt Green, Reed Watson, and Daniel Stoddard, and though their first album was released in 2012, the group has already received rave reviews from fans, critics, and fellow musicians. Brittany Howard of the Alabama Shakes says The Pollies’ album is one of her favorites. “They sound like a classic band living in their own time zone,” she says. And recently, Relix magazine said Where the Lies Begin “blends seamlessly into a jaded, almost traditional country sound of fear and loathing in the South.” All of the great press also allowed them to get an invitation to the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas in 2012 and 2013, as well as book multiple shows across the country. Now, the band is playing music fests throughout the Southeast. Drummer Reed Watson said the group is “writing material for a second record, tentatively scheduled to be released in early 2014, and daily trying to think of some cool ways to make North Alabama a more creative and fun place to live.” Plans for the future of the group? Chris says all they can do is stay consistent with the work they have been doing. “I know what I would like to see for our group, but as far as what will actually happen, I have no idea. The music business is unpredictable. As long as we are moving in a forward direction, and we are, I think we are doing okay.”
The Pollies, from left to right: Chris James, Daniel Stoddard, Jay Burgess, Reed Watson, and Matt Green
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“Something New” The Pollies have a new alternative country rock sound that reminds you of artists like Glossary, Doc Dailey and Magnolia Devil, and Patterson Hood. The Pollies bring a certain country rocker edge to their music and vocals, and “Something New” brings just what the title promises.
Saints Don’t Grieve was photographed on Westmoreland Road in Huntsville, Alabama, near the members’ homes. PHOTO BY PATRICK HOOD
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Saints Don’t Grieve may be the youngest group featured this year, but they are definitely not to be overlooked. For the last year and a half, Joshua Hill, Noah Fowler, Samuel Sharples, and Daniel Neely have been playing their music anywhere and everywhere they can. At some points they even said they would play anywhere that was providing free food. But after showing off their musical talent around North Alabama, people began to take them seriously, and now, Noah says, they have one of the best followings of any local band in Huntsville. Saints Don’t Grieve began with Daniel and Josh playing together at local coffee shops, festivals, and fundraisers. They were approached about recording a demo CD at one of the gigs, and slowly the wheels began to turn on their path toward a real career in music. After this encounter, they stayed up all night to write two original songs and began to book more shows to get their name out. The duo then invited Noah and Sam to be in their stage band and eventually brought them into the group that is now Saints Don’t Grieve. Just last year, Josh entered the Alabama Talent Hunt competition as a solo act and asked the rest of the members to perform with him as his band. Josh won the grand prize—thanks to a little help from his friends. Though none of the members are over the age of 18, they make up in musical experience what they may lack in age. The group has studied music theory together for the last couple of years and attended numerous all-state band competitions together, as well as a few all-state choir competitions and festivals. Whenever possible, the group says they are working on their music. “All clichés aside, we live and breathe music. It is how we think.” Daniel says, “There was one time that we tried to write a piece while listening to a tornado siren, just because we couldn’t stop obsessing over the question, ‘What note is that siren blaring right now?’” Their ages are reflected in their musical influences as well. The group says they are most inspired by, and aspire to be like, Coldplay, Mumford and Sons, Mae, and John Mayer, simply because those are the musicians they grew up hearing. The group agrees they have been very fortunate for the help they have been given from their fans and families during their short time in the music scene. Recently, they were lucky enough to work with Grammy-nominated producer Tony Wachter, which they say was a really exciting experience. The group just re-released their debut EP, At Least For Now, and they are currently working on a full-length album, tentatively titled Day of Redemption. This May, three of the four Saints graduated from high school and are now gearing up for their freshman year of college. And don’t worry, they won’t lose the music bug too soon—Sam will be majoring in music technology, Josh will be studying vocal performance and commercial music, and Daniel will be studying electrical engineering with a focus in studio work.
Saints Don’t Grieve, from left to right: Sam Sharples, Joshua Hill, Daniel Neely, and Noah Fowler
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“Breathe in Deep” This song has an inspiring tone, with its uplifting lyrics and driving acoustics, and has a country pop feel behind it. The harmonies are well-crafted and add just the right touch for the message that the song is conveying. Saints Don’t Grieve sound a lot like other folk and alternative artists, including a Muscle Shoals hit-maker from another generation: Bob Dylan.
Matt Morrow was photographed near his family home in Guntersville, Alabama. PHOTO BY PATRICK HOOD
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Every artist probably says their beginnings in music were a little awkward and strange, but we don’t think anyone can touch Matt Morrow’s first introduction to music: in the funeral home owned by his great aunt. When he was eight years old, he was running around the funeral home when he decided to play the pianos and organs that were scattered through the building. He played some chords and made up songs until he realized he really liked to sing. Matt admits it was a strange sight to see. “I was this little solemn child making up music on the funeral home organ. I am sure it seemed kinda creepy.” But ever since the banging and clanging on the organs, he seems to have found his voice through other artists, events in the news, and the perspectives of the people around him. “I was first inspired by artists like Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen,” he says. “I tried to write like them, but I was never good at that grand, poetic style—and I definitely couldn’t do it when I was 15 and 16,” he says. Instead, he discovered artists like Patty Griffin, Bruce Springsteen, and Tom Waits and learned from their ways of storytelling through music. “Those three in particular write a lot from the perspectives of other people, which is something I really like to do,” he says. “It’s not personal confessional, autobiographical stuff for me 100% of the time.” “Anyone who has heard my music can tell you I am much more inspired by tragedy than by happiness. I don’t make music for fun, light-hearted times.” But Antje Duvekot, a fellow singer/songwriter who has played a few shows with Matt, says this quality is something unique and beautiful. “While ‘heartfelt’ is a sadly overused word, Matt’s music is truly that. Matt’s songs and vocals are utterly heartfelt and heart-breaking and will move you and just generally set your heart aching—in that good, yearning kind of way. There is an incredibly authentic, vulnerable, and simultaneously passionate edge to Matt’s music,” according to Antje. Right now, Matt is still playing shows behind his current album Burlap and Gold which he says is a “Southern Gothic” collection of stories told from the perspectives of the ordinary men and women of his small Southern town. While this album is still in keeping with his tried-and-true darker folk melodies, he says his newer work has been a little lighter and very different to write because it deals with more interpersonal relationships. He says, “I write music that I would listen to, and so I hope that other people will like it as well. That is the point of music to me—a connection with others through art.” Matt is also working on a song cycle about the ghosts that live in his house. “Whether that will ever see the light of day, I don’t know,” he jokes. Whether he is strumming sad stories on the guitar or talking about the angry widowed spirit in his attic, we know his audience will be hanging on every word.
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“Things You Can’t Get Back” Matt Morrow has the sad country pop song down. “Things You Can’t Get Back” consists of simple vocals with a small hint of background harmonies and acoustic guitar, the perfect combination for Matt’s melancholy lyrics.
The Wildwood Ruminators were photographed on Wildwood Park Road, Florence, Alabama. PHOTO BY DANNY MITCHELL
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The Wildwood Ruminators say they met pretty organically—Drummer Malcolm Singleton knew vocalist Eddie Martin for 11 years before he introduced Eddie to guitarist Tony Lee. Eddie then brought electric guitarist John Jackson into the mix, and Tony brought in bass player Bill Williams. They met just like any group of friends with common interests, but they all agree that what happened from that point on was anything but ordinary. “There is an amazing creative energy that surrounds us when we write music,” says Malcolm. “Every time we work on a song together, it blows my mind.” This kind of energy surrounding them is what keeps The Wildwood Ruminators going. All of the members say they find their creativity through their bandmates. “I find inspiration to write songs by just wanting to hear Tony, John, Malcolm, and Bill play them,” says Eddie. “It always keeps me motivated to keep writing.” Maybe you can blame all that creative energy on their varied musical backgrounds. Eddie and Malcolm have worked together in the past on pop and rock solo albums. John Jackson was the leader in the pop/punk band Jessica’s Mistake, and Tony has worked with and performed with some of the best in the bluegrass and Celtic music realms. “Multifarious,” Tony says, describes their sound in one word. “Fortunately, each of our backgrounds provides enough talent and ability among us to feign different musical styles while staying true to each of our own roots.” With little dashes of funk, pop, rock, jazz, and folk, the group likes to say they would classify themselves as “roots-y Americana.” Eddie says they are eclectic mainly because they are so songoriented, “The song is king with The Wildwood Ruminators.” Though Eddie writes most of the songs, the members say the effort in the creative process is split evenly among the whole group. Everyone is excited and enthusiastic about the songwriting process. It’s an incredibly unique and supportive creative environment. When the group sits down to write, one thing is for sure—there is a constant commitment from each member to put their all into each song. Right now, the Ruminators are working on their newest album, which they say will be more intimate with ample amounts of acoustic tracks. The group has actually had to remove songs from the list of potential tracks because each day they make new music they love even more than the music they made the day before. They all agree that is a pretty good problem to have. Because of all the music that pours out of these five gentlemen, it doesn’t look like they will be slowing down anytime soon. But staying together and writing music seems to be the best thing they can do. Eddie says the band is everything to him: “In some very tangible way, I feel as though this band saved my life. If it seems we are genuinely happy to be on stage together, it is because it is the honest truth. We believe in this truth, and it is a powerful thing!”
The Wildwood Ruminators, from left to right: Tony Lee, Malcolm Singleton, Eddie Martin, John Jackson, and Bill Williams (not pictured)
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“Reckless Lies” It's not a country song if it doesn't tell a story about a lost love or the wrong love. In "Reckless Lies," Eddie Martin's doleful lyrics provide all that and more, and when paired with The Wildwood Ruminators’ rock-flavored melodies, you have a recipe for the perfect country ballad.
The Pyles were photographed at the intersection of County Roads 63 and 404 in Killen, Alabama. PHOTO BY DANNY MITCHELL
Hair and Makeup for Kimi Samson and Jessica Rothstein by Tabitha Creekmore Hanson
NOALA ďšş
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“Neo-Traditional Future-Primitive Folk” is kind of a mouthful, especially when it comes to classifying the simple and poignant melodies created by The Pyles. Even those without a keen ear for musicality will recognize the talent on display in The Pyles’ beautiful mix of smooth voices, cello, and violin—with a little ukulele thrown in for fun. Though this group identifies as Shoals artists and are current residents, their band’s beginnings happened about 900 miles north. W. Cullen Stewart, from Killen, was living in Philadelphia in 2009 when he met and began dating Jessica Rothstein. The two immediately started playing together and called themselves The Pyles—a nod to Goober and Gomer Pyle, who were formative characters in Cullen’s childhood. At that point, they were only using ukulele, guitar, and vocals to make their fun and upbeat songs (which can be found across Youtube.com). Soon, Jessica’s cousin, Albert Rothstein, who was also living in Philadelphia, took an interest in the duo’s music. Coincidentally, he played drums—and planted the seed in their head to expand the group. Cullen and Jessica moved back to the Shoals and got in touch with Kimi Samson and Danley Murner, who had played with Machinery of the Night, and Doc Daily and Magnolia Devils. Kimi taught Danley to play cello and the two seemed like the perfect addition to the new sound of The Pyles. After many trips back and forth, cousin Albert moved to the Shoals this past January to play drums for the group. Though many of the members have been playing music in other realms for a while, the group admits they are still a “baby band,” especially when it comes to the rich musical talent in North Alabama. The group’s inspiration come from all over, but they attribute a lot to the artists that surround them here. “Our peers inspire us,” Stewart says. “We have the privilege of being surrounded by amazing songwriters and musicians who really drive us and inspire us.” The group is in the studio right now. The song “When You Were Mine” was recorded, cut, and mixed especially for the No’Ala album, so you will have to wait until later this year for more of The Pyles’ music. The group plans to release an EP this summer and hopefully follow it with a full-length album by the fall. We anticipate the group to begin the fall with more foot-stomping, rhythm-driven tunes that are fun to watch and fun to listen to. No matter if the songs are about happy days or setbacks, relationship nostalgia or the joy of meeting someone new, The Pyles agree their work always begins with the story. “Sometimes the chord progressions create the beginnings of a song, and sometimes it is a few lines for the chorus, but no matter where we start, everything with The Pyles takes a backseat to the story,” Stewart says. “Everyone brings their contributions to editing and arrangement and the raw product gets turned in a way that extols that story. If the words get in the way, we take them out. If the guitar gets in the way, we get rid of it. Tell the story. That’s it.”
The Pyles, from left to right: Danley Murner, Kimi Samson, Albert Rothstein, Jessica Rothstein, and W. Cullen Stewart
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“When You Were Mine” There’s nothing like an old-time bluegrass ballad, and “When You Were Mine” starts off just that way. The vocals also keep this theme and sound going, especially when they surprise you with their tight harmony. The Pyles make music that reminds you of groups such as The Civil Wars and Little Big Town.
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market » Claire Stewart » Photos by Ian McCalister
Shop Lowe Mill Frida’s Dress Pot ($900) Guadalupe Robinson (256) 520-3205 Railroad Room 1
“(Mother Always Said) My Head Was in the Clouds” ($240) S. Renee Prasil/Whatsoever ARTS renee.prasil@aol.com Studio 118
“The Ice is Thin” Oil on Canvas ($590) Lenore Corey Studio Lenore@lenorecoreyart.com Studio 326
“Norsham By Night” Acrylic ($800) Hand-drawn, plausible, but fictitious maps David Nuttall (256)479-5113 Studio 308
Assorted Box of Eight Gourmet Chocolates ($14.80) Pizzelle’s Confections (256) 513-9745 Railroad Room 4a
Mod Popper Ring in Sterling Silver, Amethyst, Ruby, Blue Onyx, and Green Onyx ($85) Erin Michael www.ErinMichael.com Studio 131
“Fawn Dahlia” Stained Glass with Faceted Jewels and Recycled Wood ($480) Julie Gill Big Glass Art (256) 874-4630 Railroad Room 4b
“Reading” Watercolor ($400) Terri Shows Sherri10toes@gmail.com Studio 312 3-Tiered Vintage China Serving Dish ($50) Kitty’s Vintage Home (256) 682-5570 Studio 255
Various Art Supplies (Products between $6-$39 each) The Art Cart (256) 603-1978 Studio 115 J ULY /AUGUST 2013 | NOALAPRESS . COM | 43
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market » Claire Stewart » Photos by Ian McCalister “Four Pears” Soft Pastel on Board ($350) Jodi Nuttall (256)479-5113 Studio 308
Assorted LP’s and 45’s ($5-$20 each) Vertical House Records (256) 658-2976 Railroad Room 3
“Penny” Oil on Canvas ($550) JS Taylor Art Jennifer@jstaylorart.com Studio 307
“Bling Mirror” Metal Snaps, Beads, Wood, and Other Materials ($170) Born Again Furniture and Décor (256) 527-0183 Studio 118
“Dueling Banjos” Acrylic ($900) Johanna Littleton jblittleton@yahoo.com Studio 312
#24 Original Cigar Box Guitar ($750) Scott Birchfield Prototype Guitar ($450) Nickel Cigar Box Guitars (256) 714-7124 Studio 106
“The Graduate” Vest (Commissioned) Willette Battle (256) 426-7681 Studio 309 7.13c Blue Topaz and Sterling Silver Necklace ($225) J Caudle & Co. (256) 574-6461 Studio 104
“Archive 12” Patchwork Skirt ($325) Made from 1 year’s worth of scrap. Only one made a year! Radiant Shade Textile+Design info@radiantshade.com Studio 120
Customized Screenprinted Canvas Bags (prices vary) No’Ala Bags are $5 in our Lowe Mill Studio #119! Green Pea Press (256) 479-5082 Studio 122
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Š Patrick Hood
TEXT BY L AURA ANDERS LEE » PHOTOS BY PATRICK HOOD
SHAWNA P HAS A VOICE. A BIG, SOULFUL VOICE—WITH A PERSONALITY TO MATCH. “I was born in Alabama, just outside of Muscle Shoals,” she belts in her song “Sister Soul.” “Same day Aretha was down the road laying down the soul. Something jumped off on me; I got Baptized in the groove; tapped in time to nursery rhymes; the music made me move.”
North Alabama native Shawna P, as she’s known to fans, is the kind of person who opens up immediately, winning people over with her unforgettable sound and infectious spirit. This spring, she had the opportunity to share a little of her soul with millions of viewers on NBC’s The Voice, Season 4, where she made it to the top 32 out of 50,000 talented hopefuls. The Voice is different from other reality music shows because singers are selected based on their talent alone; celebrity coaches cannot see them perform, only hear them. If the judges like the voice, they press a button which turns their chair around, indicating they want the artist on their team. If more than one judge presses their button and turns around, the artist has the power to decide. When Shawna P sang “She Talks to Angels,” at the blind auditions, both Adam Levine and Shakira turned their chairs around. Shawna P chose Team Shakira and went on to perform Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” in the Battle Round and Paul McCartney’s “Maybe I’m Amazed” in the Knock Out Round. Shawna P’s album, EarthFunk Muzik
During her performances, Usher compared Shawna P’s voice to fine wine; Blake Shelton said it was smoky, raspy and fun to listen to; Adam Levine called it “bad ass,” Shakira said she has perfect pitch and control; and Carson Daily said the queen of funk has been found. So even though she lost to contestant Sasha Allen in the Knock Out Round just before the live shows, Shawna P came back to her Alabama home on cloud nine.
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“I STARTED [MY ALBUM] IN NASHVILLE, BUT I HAD TO COME TO MUSCLE SHOALS TO GET THE SOUND RIGHT.” SHAWNA P During the blind auditions, both Adam Levine and Shakira expressed interest in Shawna P, below. Shawna eventually chose Shakira to be her coach.
© NBC Universal, Inc.
“I never dreamed in a thousand years that I would make it as far as I did,” says Shawna P. “Things have catapulted since then.” Shawna P’s album has sold out on cdbaby.com; some of her old friends in Nashville have reached out to her again; she’s gotten offers from Signature Smiles and others for free services; she’s a guest news correspondent for Mobile’s NBC affiliate station; and her recording of “She Talks to Angels” made it to the top 200 on iTunes. “I don’t think there’s a 45-year-old singer out there with a top 200 song on iTunes,” Shawna P says. Most performers who make it in the music industry are in their 20s, if not younger, i.e., Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber. So Shawna P’s age was definitely a factor in the competition, where she was twice as old as most of the contestants. And it was one of the reasons she picked Shakira as her coach. “The only country where age matters is the U.S.,” says Shawna P. “The other countries like music for music. Shakira has a worldwide fan base, she’s sold more albums worldwide than any other judge, and I wanted to tap into that.”
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One of Shawna P’s biggest goals for being on the show was promoting her album, Earth Funk Muzik, produced in Muscle Shoals with Mojo Filter at FAME in 2011. “I started it in Nashville, but I had to come to Muscle Shoals to get the sound right,” she says. Shawna P has been singing her entire life, and she’s had a long road of ups and downs, promises and heartbreaks that come with pursuing a career in one of the toughest industries. “I was born in Florence and moved to Lawrence County and then Decatur,” says Shawna P. “The music heritage up here is so unbelievably rich. I was born around the time they were recording all the music here, ‘Mustang Sally,’ ‘When a Man Loves a Woman.’ My mom and dad always took me to concerts and shows when I was little. When I was eight years old, they took me to see Elvis in Huntsville. When I saw Elvis, it was crazy, it totally changed my life. I knew I had to go into music.” After graduating from the University of Alabama, Shawna P came home and produced a gospel album and moved to
Nashville to promote it. She got a record deal, but it fell through, so she left her dream for more than a decade for a steady IT job. “But then my next-door neighbor, who was a country rapper named Chan, asked me to sing back up in the Muzik Mafia,” Shawna P recalls. “That’s where I came alive again. I realized I was a good writer.” The Muzik Mafia was a collection of artists in Nashville who helped support each other through writing and performing. “They kind of gave the finger to the music industry,” says Shawna P, “and said, ‘we’re gonna do this on our own.’” It was in the Muzik Mafia that Shawna P got to share a stage with George Clinton, Kid Rock, Gretchen Wilson, and Big and Rich, and what led to a publishing deal as a salaried staff writer. Shawna P developed partnerships with SESAC Songwriter of the Year Regie Hamm and songwriter and keyboardist Tim Akers, who has recorded with Rascal Flatts, Faith Hill, and Keith Urban. The trio wrote “Sister Soul,” “Alabama Tears,” and “Broken” which are on her new album. “As a staff songwriter, you have to get yourself in the mindset that you have to write every day,” says Shawna P. “I prefer to write fresh and in the moment. It makes for more powerful songs. You’re very fortunate as a writer if you can find someone you write with well. I had some magical collaborations.” Shawna P left Nashville in 2006 for Mississippi for another record deal, but that later fell through. But Shawna P, who is a very spiritual person, always sees the blessings through the disappointments.
“I WANT TO DO FESTIVALS, AND I WANT TO COACH YOUNG ARTISTS ON HOW TO AUDITION ON SHOWS LIKE THE VOICE AND AMERICAN IDOL.”
“The record company ran out of money, but I found my husband there, which is a beautiful thing,” she says.
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© Patrick Hood
Shawna P and her husband opted for a fresh start in Orange Beach, where they play together in their band Shawna P
“WHEN I WAS EIGHT YEARS OLD, [MY PARENTS] TOOK ME TO SEE ELVIS IN HUNTSVILLE. WHEN I SAW ELVIS, IT WAS CRAZY, IT TOTALLY CHANGED MY LIFE. I KNEW I HAD TO GO INTO MUSIC.” SHAWNA P and the Earth Funk Tribe. They gained a name for themselves along the Gulf Coast, mostly playing popular bars like the Flora-Bama and Seville Quarter. It was in Orange Beach where a friend called to tell her The Voice was hosting private auditions at a studio in Memphis. “My friend videoed me singing on a boat dock on Ono Island and sent it to the studio,” says Shawna P. “They called me for an audition, and the rest is history.” So in September, Shawna was off to Los Angeles for tapings of The Voice. “I pulled up and there were over 50 people in the lobby with guitars, violins, singing harmony,” says Shawna P. “It felt like home.” From September through April, Shawna P was in LA off and on. The show paid for her airfare, room and board, and gave her a stipend for each recording. She endured 15-hour days,
with band rehearsals and local coaching, all to prepare for a 90-second song on air. “When I sang, it was 90 seconds of normal for me,” says Shawna P. “I loved the energy that was there in LA. I feel like I’m 20 years old again. I’m so energized.” Now that she’s back at home, Shawna P, the eternal optimist and believer, is doing some soul-searching, contemplating her next move. “I want to do festivals, and I want to coach young artists on how to audition on shows like The Voice and American Idol,” says Shawna P. And above all, she just wants to keep making music. “I want to bring people together through music,” says Shawna P. “I want to Earth Funk the world, to spread peace and unity. My music is its own genre. It’s just what comes out of my soul.”
During the battle round, Shawna P and fellow competitor Brandon Roush, far left, listen the judges’ feedback with host Carson Daily. Shawna went on to win this match.
© NBC Universal, Inc.
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PHOTOS BY ARMOSA STUDIOS TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSON
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ON A BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY AFTERNOON IN MAY, friends and family of Chelsea Turner and Chance Mitchell gathered at Burritt on the Mountain for one of the most talked-about weddings in North Alabama. It was the end of a long and sometimes hectic journey to get everything ready for this perfect day; it was also the beginning of a beautiful and happy life together.
The ceremony took place on the steps of the Burritt Mansion, a beautiful spot with a spectacular view of the city of Huntsville.
Chelsea was radiant; Chance was beaming. There was fabulous food, wonderful music, stunning florals, laughter, and tears of joy. The couple worked so hard to get ready for this day, with the help of some very special friends, beginning with the preparation of their winning Inspiration Board, which started them on this whirlwind; they had blogged about the process at every step. This was the day it all led up to; this was their Perfect Wedding. You are cordially invited to take a look at all of the details that came together to create Alabama’s Perfect Wedding. There was magic on the mountain that day…
Preparation Unless you’ve been through this, it’s hard to appreciate all of the hundreds of details that go into putting together a wedding. Chance and Chelsea had an idea of the type of wedding they wanted, and the grounds of the Burritt Mansion provided the backdrop of their dreams. Baron Bluff, the newest addition to the Burritt property, is an expansive event center that was designed with the bridal party in mind, and Chelsea and her bridesmaids had plenty of room to get ready. The groom and his groomsmen, along with the assembled families and friends, could walk the grounds and take in the spectacular views of the city of
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The Perfect Wedding
Beautiful flowers, beautiful music, beautiful couple…for the assembled guests, it seemed as if everything flowed effortlessly. No one knew how much work was involved to make the day so perfect, but wedding stylist Jordyn Dean and the Perfect Wedding Partners worked for months to make it so.
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Musicians from the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra provided the music for the bridal ceremony. Wes and Tera Wages, from Armosa Studios, and Chris Anderson, a videographer from Up Down Studios, captured the special moments for eternity.
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The Perfect Wedding
Huntsville, down below. There was bright sunshine, a relief after a day that had threatened rain; the afternoon could not have been better for an outdoor event. The days leading up to this Sunday had been a whirlwind. There were so many decisions to make, but wedding stylist Jordyn Dean has helped brides do this before. (In fact, Jordyn and her husband, Bradley, were married at Burritt on the Mountain four years earlier, so she was very familiar with this ideal location.) Save-the-date cards and invitations, designed and printed by Magpie Photo/Design were created and mailed weeks earlier. Chelsea and one of her bridesmaids, Savannah Smith, handsewed all of the groomsmen’s bowties, using a pattern Savannah had and working into the wee hours of the morning. It hadn’t been all hard work, though: Artz Studios hosted a wine and painting class for Chelsea and her bridesmaids a week before the wedding day, and the girls had time to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and prepare for the big day. The night before, all seven bridesmaids spent the night at Chelsea’s house and had attended a bridesmaid brunch at Chelsea’s aunt’s house that morning. Those special time-outs helped prepare everyone for the day of primping and preparation for the wedding itself. Chelsea could hear the crowd gathering as she and her bridal party dressed and got ready. Natalie Faggioni went to work, designing the bride and bridesmaids’ makeup, and Jeff Johnson, of Terramé Day Spa and Salon, styled their hair. Chelsea has beautiful natural coloring, and Natalie enhanced it with subtle brushstrokes and carefully applied makeup, while Jeff styled her long blonde hair and arranged the veil. Several days earlier, both Chelsea and Chance had received Kör Teeth Whitening Systems from Signature Smile, and every bridesmaid and groomsman received Sheer White kits. “At one point, I was in the Bridal Room and I could hear Chance and some of the guys outside chatting,” Chelsea later wrote. “I got so excited that he was there. From that moment on, it was a whirlwind of emotions.” As the guests continued to arrive, caterers and the florists from In Bloom were putting the finishing touches on the food and decor. It was almost time; the Perfect Wedding was about to begin.
The Ceremony The guests were in place, and it was time for the ceremony to start. To the sounds of a harp and wooden flute, played by Huntsville Symphony Orchestra musicians Katherine Newman and Evelyn Loehrlein, Chelsea began the walk toward the steps of the Burritt Mansion on her father’s arm. This was the audience’s first time to see the bride that day, and she was stunning in her dress from Finery, a strapless gown with a long, layered, ruffled train and a simple belt embellished with beads and pearls. In Bloom designed a bouquet made of beautiful flowers, including peonies from her grandmother’s garden and selections from their own private garden, in pink tones, bright yellows, and creams, and all of the bridesmaids carried smaller versions of the bride’s. The floral theme was repeated on a lattice behind the musicians. “The ceremony was a dream,” said Chelsea. “I can remember the happy looks on our friends’ and families’ faces. Our preacher kept things Gospel-focused and talked about the commitment we were making and what it really meant. We said our vows
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Magpie Studio/Design created the save-thedate-cards and wedding invitations. Above right: Chelsea and her mother hand painted tiny pots and planted succulent plants, given to each guest as a keepsake. Bottom right: Instead of a guest book, those attending the wedding signed a globe, a symbol of the couple’s love of travel.
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The bridal party shares a happy moment for the camera.
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Left: Chelsea’s wedding gown, from Finery, featured a strapless design and a flowing train. Above: Wedding bands from Grogan’s Jewelers. Above right: Chelsea’s jewelry and hair pieces. Below, right: Chelsea and her friend, Savannah, hand made the bowties for the groom and groomsmen, and In Bloom created the boutonnieres.
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Even though every member of the bridal party was beautiful, they were made even more so by Natalie Faggioni (above), who designed their makeup, and Jeff Johnson, of Terramé (right), who styled their hair.
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Betty Lankford with Catering Events MENU (facing page) Herb-Encrusted Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Boursin Cheese and Caramelized Onion Gourmet Cheese and Seasonal Fruit Sweet Potato Bar with Maple Syrup, Brown Sugar, Marshmallows, and Nuts Brie Chutney Tartlets Roasted Corn Salsa Tartlets
Above: The wedding cake, from Belle Fleur Catering & Floral, was as delicious as it was beautiful. Above right: Vintage dinnerware was provided by Decorous Dishes, and the linens and glassware came from All Needz. Below right: The groom’s cake, from Tastebuds, was a red velvet cake with a chocolate ganache icing, covered with chocolate fondant.
Open Face Tomato Sandwiches with Herb Mayo Spring Tea Punch
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What’s for Supper? MENU Sautéed Shrimp Cups with Pureed Eggplant and Sweet Carrot/Anise Reduction Beef Bourguignon Crepes Shrimp and Mushroom Crepes Chopped Arugula Salad in Balsamic Vinaigrette Fresh Fruit and Cheeses Herb Cheese Lyonnaise Dip Goat Cheese and Basil Dip Mint Citrus Punch
Chefs to Go MENU Spinach Micro-Green Salad with Strawberries, Avocado, Salted Bacon, Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Balsamic Vinaigrette Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomatoes, Fresh Mozzarella, and House-made Pesto Lobster Chipotle Shrimp and Stone Ground Goat Cheese Grits Fruit Tea
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Flowers make a wedding, and In Bloom’s beautiful arrangements provided both a focal point and the perfect backdrop at every turn. In Bloom used peonies from Chelsea’s grandmother’s garden, and even took greenery from their own private garden to make the arrangements not only stunning, but especially meaningful to the bridal party.
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The Perfect Wedding
Left: A highlight of the reception was the photo booth, provided by Awaken Productions. Guests could choose from a variety of props and costumes, and prints were made on the spot. Above: Artz Studios gave Chelsea and her bridal party a special painting party a week before the wedding, a chance for the ladies to relax and have some fun before the big day. Right: An Acura RDX sport utility vehicle provided by Damson Automotive was used as the getaway car, to sweep the bride and groom away from the reception and take them down the mountain. The next morning, the couple departed for Paris, France, for their honeymoon.
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The Perfect Wedding
and took communion. The I-do’s were said and it was official.” The couple exchanged wedding bands from Grogan’s Jewelers, and kissed; they were officially Mr. and Mrs. Chance Mitchell. “Walking back down the aisle with Chance was literally the happiest I think I have ever been,” Chelsea said.
The Reception Not only is Baron Bluff designed to accommodate weddings and special events, it has the best view of Huntsville anywhere. As the guests entered the hall, their first look was the beautiful flower arrangements on every table and around the food tables. Servers with platters of hors d’oeuvres from the caterers, including brie tartlets and shrimp pastries, circulated among the guests. In Bloom repeated the color theme from the bridal bouquet in the large room, and the tasteful arrangements and beautiful colors were breathtaking. Linens from All Needz were a soft pink and grey that complimented the flowers. But then, the guests spied the food piled on serving tables and consisting of a varied and delicious menu that included everything from crepes from What’s For Supper, to a bountiful salad from Chefs To Go, to a sweet potato bar from Betty Lankford Catering Events. The food was served on vintage plates from Decorous Dishes, and guests mingled, laughed, and ate until they were full. Armosa Studios took photos that the couple will cherish forever, as they danced to the music of the Dillon Hodges Trio, and while Chris Anderson, of Up Down Media, captured the moments on video. Besides the food, one of the most popular items was a photo booth at the reception, from Awaken Productions; there was a constant line of people who wanted to use the props and costumes and mug for the camera so they could take a keepsake of this beautiful event home for themselves. The wedding cake, from Belle Fleur Catering & Floral, was four layers high, their signature vanilla cake with gold accents, and the groom’s cake from Tastebuds was red velvet with chocolate icing, covered in chocolate fondant. Although both cakes looked too good to eat, no one seemed to have a problem tasting them. As the reception drew to a close, guests chose their gifts from a cart of tiny succulent plants in painted pots, hand decorated and planted by the bride and her mother. The bouquet and garter were tossed; the guests were given sparklers, and the bride and groom ran down the path to a brand new Acura SUV, their escape vehicle for the evening, courtesy of Jerry Damson Automotive. Once inside, they were swept away off the mountain, to prepare for their honeymoon in Paris. The magic of the wedding was complete; the magic of their lives together was about to begin.
The End What started almost a year earlier, with Chelsea and Chance working to put together an Inspiration Board to show a panel of jurists their dreams for their big event, had come to a close. Chelsea had faithfully recorded the process on her blog at alabamaperfectwedding.com, in hopes that other couples planning their big events could derive inspiration and ideas. Legions of workers had come forward to help, tending to the smallest of details so that this wedding would be memorable. Everything fell into place, and the day went so smoothly that Chelsea described it as being like living in a dream. For those who were in attendance, there is just one word to use for Chelsea and Chance’s big day: perfect.
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The original buses (top) are quite different from the sleek Prevost coaches used today. From the exterior, it’s hard to know that someone very famous—or the traveling crew that supports the star—is headed to the next gig.
“The life I love is making music with my friends. And I can’t wait to get on the road again.” Willie Nelson 78 | NOALAPRESS.COM | J ULY /AUGUST 2013
TEXT BY L AURA ANDERS LEE » PHOTOS BY GOODE DETHERO
Behind every musician is their crew. And on the road, this is literally the case. Each night when the last note has been played, the last autograph signed, the last fan filed out of the arena, the crew begins to take down the stage. Then, they load the bus, get some sleep, and wake up at their next location to do it all again. But these days being on the road doesn’t mean roughing it. In fact, it’s more like luxury living on the highway. The largest upscale tour bus fleet in the country is based in North Alabama, at Senators Coaches in Florence. “I bought the company when it was in Memphis back in the 80s,” says Owner George Pillow. “We had five tour buses. Then in 2004 we consolidated three companies in Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida to the Florence office.” Today, the company has grown from a handful of buses and employees to a workforce of more than 140 who is responsible for designing, building, servicing, leasing, and driving the country’s largest fleet of tour buses for the biggest names in music and television. “I’ve been in manufacturing my whole life, and we’re building the best coaches,” says George. “We have really good people, really good craftsmen. Our success is built on the people we have. Because of them, we’ve won best coach company for six years in a row. We are well established; anyone in the business knows who
“We have really good people, really good craftsmen. Our success is built on the people we have.” GEORGE PILLOW
we are. Anytime if it’s a pretty big tour, they come to us.” Right now Senators Coaches is cleaning Jillian Michaels’ bus from The Biggest Loser tour, gearing up for John Mayer’s “Born and Raised” tour, and leasing a fleet of buses for Paul McCartney’s “Out There” tour. “Paul McCartney doesn’t ride the bus,” George jokes, “but his crew, including the sound guys, food staff, and support team ride on the bus.” Above: Senators Coaches line up in front of Carnegie Hall in New York City. Below: Senators’ state-of-the-art headquarters in Florence.
Senators’ rock-n-roll roster includes everyone from U2, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Journey, and The Rolling Stones to Rihanna, Alicia Keys, and Pitbull. And they have personallysigned memorabilia throughout their offices to prove it. “We do have a few star buses with private suites,” George says, “and we’ve had chefs, bodyguards, and even nannies and kids ride the bus, for people like Amy Grant and Sheryl Crow.”
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Senators begins with an empty shell, purchasing Prevost buses that have unďŹ nished interiors. In the Florence plant, craftsmen design and build the coaches to become luxurious homes for people who travel for a living. The transformation is amazing.
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© Mazzur
© Nick Biemans
Senators’ rock-n-roll roster includes everyone from U2, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Journey, and The Rolling Stones to Rihanna, Alicia Keys, and Pitbull. And they have personally-signed memorabilia throughout their offices to prove it. The road crew can consist of four to six buses for an average tour, to up to 16 for larger tours like The Rolling Stones.
© Stocklight
© Cinema Festival
Senators Coaches also leases its buses to sports broadcasters, including ESPN Game Day, ESPN Monday Night Football, ABC’s Saturday Night Football, and DIRECTV. During the offseason, the buses are leased to other organizations; in the spring the Monday Night Football bus was used at George’s alma mater, Mississippi State, for their annual alumni Road Dawgs tour.
© Gustavo Fernandez
© Mary A. Lupo
“Those buses are custom-made,” says George, “but everything else we do is our design. We build a coach to our standards, and our clients know what to expect from the interior, quality, and features.”
“Our ESPN Game Day bus serves as their studio on Saturday mornings,” says George. “There are eight TVs in the back room so they can watch every ballgame that’s on. We’re installing an 80-inch TV in one of our new buses now; we’re constantly upgrading our equipment.”
© D. Free © Helga Esteb
It does, afterall, have to meet the standards of musicians and their sound technicians.
© D. Free
© Katatonia
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Senators Coaches buys premium passenger buses from Prevost in Quebec, and then they come to the Florence facility completely bare except for the driver’s seat. Senators’ team of employees outfits the bus, building the cabinets and up to 12 bunk beds and installing the generator, one to two bathrooms, granite flooring, a large stainless steel refrigerator, and up to 16 televisions, including one for each bunk. When they are through, the 45-foot bus is transformed into a roadie’s living room, a private hotel suite, or even a studio ready for live TV.
George admits at first being nervous about putting the keys to his business in the hands of a rock band, but he says they’ve never had a problem with a bus being trashed. He says, “it’s their way of life; they take good care of them because it’s their home on the road.”
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scene Susan Moore and Abby Grace Brown
Chip Cherry, Janet Brown, Ron Poteat, and Mark Russell
Ron Poteat Janet Brown and Jill Driscoll
Cathy Wilhite and Kathleen Patterson
Kathy Hornbuckle, Lilly Smith, Cathy Wilhite, and Meg Carstens
Belk Employees
Mark Russell and Kelly Schrimsher © David Phillips Photography
Above: Belk 125th Anniversary Media Breakfast and Ribbon Cutting
Below: Ali MacGraw’s Visit to Huntsville
M AY 29, 2013 BELK, PARKWAY PLACE
M AY 79, 2013 VARIOUS LOCATIONS
Kelli Markwalter, Ali MacGraw, Richard Markwalter, and Mark Jackson Sara and Mike Ahearn, Ali MacGraw, Carl and Lauren Lowe, and Julie Lowe Kathi and Norm Tew with Ali MacGraw
Pam Jennings and Middie Thompson
Judy Ryals, Christopher J. Madkour, and Ali MacGraw
Richard Crunkleton, Ali MacGraw, and Nancy Crunkleton
* Names for photos are provided by the organization or business featured.
Ali MacGraw and Mayor Tommy Battle Linda Maccubbin, Ali MacGraw, Dot Ward, and Edna Kendall
© Jeff White Photographer
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scene
Below Seated, left to right: Olivia Hargrove, Jacqueline Heard, Kaitlyn Janssen. Standing, left to right: Catherine Kelly, McLaine Kent, Anna Knowling, Katherine McEwen.
Above Seated, left to right: Katie Beck, Maggie Buell, Betsy Byrom. Standing, left to right: Blanton Calvert, Carlie Chapman, Shelbie Cole, Katie Darden, Emma Louise Ennis, Katherine Grace, Lauren Hagood.
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Announces 50th Symphony Ball Debutantes M AY 21, 2013 AFTERNOON TEA AT THE LEDGES COUNTRY CLUB
Below Seated, left to right: Sarah Russell, Alli Schutzenhofer, Sarah Corinne Shotts. Standing, left to right: Abbey Steed, Lily Teague, Caitlyn Tepool, Riley Thornton, Katherine Walker, Kristyn Wilson, Marley Woody. Not Pictured: Hannah Brock, Hannah Holloway, Janie Jackson, Alexandra Martin, Mary Kathryn Martinson, Sabol Rodgers.
Above Seated, left to right: Allison Moody, Elizabeth Moody, Sarah Katherine Ordway. Standing, left to right: Meg Pepper, JoAnna Propst, Bradley Pullen, Lexie Gates Rasco, Anna Wynn Rodgers, Bailey Russell.
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bless their hearts » David Sims
Part of the club
We’ve been together through some of the happiest and most tragic of times. I certainly love these people, and I know they love me. But let’s be real— these people can cook, and I love to eat.
MY PARENTS DID NOT BELONG TO A SUPPER CLUB WHEN I WAS YOUNG. Their idea of socializing meant gathering the immediate family after mass for Sunday lunch (Morrison’s Cafeteria), or Sunday evening supper at my great aunt’s house (biscuits with honey or maple syrup, barbecue, smoked sausage, cole slaw, and sweet tea). It wasn’t until I moved to North Alabama almost 17 years ago that I came to know the tradition, allure, and importance of the supper club. In the South, food is entertainment. We’re lucky in North Alabama to have an endless array of great musicians to entertain us, and some of us are lucky enough to live on the water. Heck, some of us are lucky enough to know musicians who live on the water. If you don’t fall into any of those categories, you eat out for fun. If you don’t believe me, just try to get into a new restaurant during its first month of operation. It’s like a cross between a Red Cross disaster relief effort and a Justin Bieber concert on the Today show plaza. Food is the core of our culture. And it’s one thing that Southerners do better than anyone in any other part of the country. I mean, when is the last time anyone craved Pennsylvania scrapple? And don’t even get me started about gravy or vinegar on French fries—that’s just icky. And if food is entertainment, then the supper club is its theatre. I read somewhere that the first supper club originated in Beverly Hills—which would support one of my mother’s crazy, but most repeated axioms. “All trends originate in California, eventually making their way to the South.” She first made this pronouncement after my brother and I ignited mass hysteria at Sacred Heart Cathedral School with our new View-Masters, purchased in Anaheim where my dad was attending a six-week trade school. Incidentally, that was the first and only time I was considered cool by anyone’s standards. Now that I live in North Alabama, I belong to a supper club. Unlike sewing clubs, where women do not really sew (think drinking and gossiping), we actually do eat at our supper club, and to be quite honest it’s become a bit of a competitive sport (more on this later). Although our supper club was borne of common interests (the ability to talk politics being one), we actually do like each other very much. After all, we’ve been together through some of the happiest and most tragic of times. I certainly love these people, and I know they love me. But let’s be real—these people can cook, and I love to eat.
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I think like most supper clubs, we take turns hosting. If it’s your turn to host, you make the main dish, provide the drinks, and invite the “wild cards.” The wild cards can be an additional couple or guests who the hosts think will be an interesting addition to our group. It’s a wonderful way to keep the conversation and evening fresh, and it’s the perfect opportunity to meet and get to know new people, or welcome a newcomer. Our newest members, Alyson and J.T., were once wild cards. The wild cards are not allowed to make anything, because their job is to be the center of attention—to be fascinating. The remaining members are responsible for appetizers, side dishes, and desserts, all assigned through e-mail exchanges, on a first-come, first-serve basis. It’s a casual affair, and most of our dinners have revolved around a type of food (comfort food, Indian, Italian) or a theme (“Thanksgiving Leftovers Night” is Debra’s idea and one of my favorites). And we’re a pretty creative and competitive bunch, so we tend to pull out all the stops when it comes to food preparation. Everyone seems to have something they do very well. Sandee (of Sandee and Jim) makes a pretty mean lasagna. In fact, Sandee’s Italian heritage has almost made up for the fact that she is a Connecticut Yankee, and unlike Giada De Laurentiis, she doesn’t insist on suddenly alternating between her lovely regional accent and a dramatic Italian accent. Carolyn (of Carolyn and Dan) has mastered Indian cuisine—due in part to their years of living and working abroad. Their home is filled with beautiful artifacts of exotic travels and we almost always get to hear one of Dan’s stories about 24-hour dinners with Arab sheiks (or something equally decadent). Carolyn’s Tandoori chicken, Saag Paneer, and homemade nan have achieved hall-of-fame status in our club and nirvana in our stomachs. Debra (of Debra and Jackie) can make just about anything with Ina Garten precision—she’s just that talented, and Jackie has been known to grill up a feast. Our new members Alyson and J.T. are known for their Tex-Mex (Alyson is from Beaumont) and an occasional New Albany chocolate pie from J.T.’s neck of the woods (Mississippi). Plus, they have the coolest screenedin porch and a pool. Allen and I always rush to get dessert, because it’s the only course in which I can participate on a highly competitive level. I may not be able to properly grill a steak, or make the perfect rice, but I can art direct the heck out of a cake, provided that Allen makes everything else. So, if you don’t yet belong to a supper club, I encourage you to start one with your friends. Be creative, try new foods, but don’t stress over what to make. Because supper club is ultimately not about competition, or even the food. It’s about connecting. It’s about sharing our gifts with good friends. But mostly, it’s all about love.
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The Value of the Thank You Card TEXT BY MICHELLE RUPE EUBANKS
I have desk drawers full of note cards. They litter virtually every part of my desk at home and at the office. Some, my husband in particular, might say I have an addiction to them. I’ll wander into a stationery store; no, not wander. I’m called to them. I seek out paper goods stores and aisles. I can spend hours pouring over designs, textures, and the words contained within. I’ve even been known to purchase multiple sets of the same design because I loved it so much. Another quirk of mine is that I don’t send the last card in the box. I want to keep it to remember how much the cards meant to me and the joy I hope they brought to others. Save the judgment. I already know that’s a bit over the top. There’s no question, then, that when it’s a note I need to write—thank-you, sympathy, get well, thinking of you . . . well, you get the idea—I’m never at a loss for something upon which to write. Like everyone, however, when faced with a blank card (I rarely purchase those with the words “Thank you” on the outside, by the way), I get a little tied up when it comes to the words that should fill the space. I’ve tossed more than a few in the trash when searching for just the right turn of phrase or appropriate sentiment to express my gratitude. In finding my way through this bit of writers’ block, I found the best advice comes from Connie Leas, author of “The Art of Thank You: Crafting Notes of Gratitude.” Like Miss Man-
ners, Leas offers suggestions on when a thank-you card is appropriate, how to encourage children to get in the habit of writing thank-you cards, and if e-mail is ever an appropriate form to express gratitude (more on that later). Unlike Miss Manners, Leas, a technical writer by trade, “came at the thank-you note from the research standpoint,” she said. “I sent off a wedding gift and never received an acknowledgement, so I’m left wondering, ‘Did she receive it? Did she like it? Did she not know how to write a note?’” Many of us have been in the same situation as Leas. We’ve sent a gift, perhaps wedding, maybe graduation, quite possibly even a birthday gift, and not received a note in reply. “This leaves something of a black mark,” she said. “I hate to say, but this is something you just don’t forget. Years later, you always seem to remember the lovely note you received as well as the note that never came at all.” Let’s be honest. Expressing gratitude through words doesn’t come naturally for everyone. It takes practice. If you’ve never been in the habit before, being faced with a mountain of cards to complete and mail after getting home from a week-long Caribbean honeymoon, it can seem daunting to say the least. “People see it as a chore, especially if they’ve not been schooled in the niceties as a child,” Leas said. “When there are a lot to be done, set a goal to write 10 a day. I was compulsive about it; I even did some thank-yous while I was on my honeymoon. And even I think that may be a bit extreme.” Gifts are just one reason to send a note of gratitude. Leas said a personal experience can also inspire you to put pen to paper. “Doctors, ministers, nurses, when they get these notes, they keep them, put them away and get them out to read over and over again,” she said. “It’s a simple way to make someone’s day.”
Let’s be honest. Expressing gratitude through words doesn’t come naturally for everyone. It takes practice.
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Of course, I had to ask Leas if it’s ever acceptable to write a note of thanks via e-mail. “You know, I’m getting more lax about it,” she said. “For more casual experiences, an e-mail is becoming more acceptable. But for bigger things, for the overnight stay, you really want to do something that reflects the effort someone put into the gift.” Feeling inspired? Write out a note of thanks for the couple that hosted you for a dinner party. Thank your grandparents for giving you a place to crash over the weekend. Pop a note in the mailbox for your postman for delivering the package to your doorstep. And, please, please, please, don’t forget the note to the prospective employer after the interview. It can land you the job, and, for that, who wouldn’t be grateful?
Do Do have your supplies ready. If you’re geared up to share your gratitude with those who have gifted you, the last thing you want is to be out of stamps. Or cards. Or pens. Have what you need on hand. Do think through what you want to write. Take a moment to consider each gift. How will you use the gift? What makes this gift special to you? The recipient of the card will love to hear that you not only enjoy the gift but how you plan to use it as well. Do act quickly. You’ll feel more genuine in your response if you send your thanks sooner rather than later, but, I’m also of the opinion that a thank-you card, even one that’s a month after the fact, is better than no card at all. Do use good stationery. Speaking of supplies, invest in some monogrammed cards. Consider using a nice pen, one that writes well. You might even want to go so far as to get an embossed stamp for your stationery. After all, writing your return address more than a dozen times can become monotonous.
Don’t Don’t use a template. Even the shortest note that gets right to the point is more effective than a generic note. Consider Marilyn Monroe’s note to a gentleman who gifted her with a bottle of champagne: “It arrived, I drank it, and I was gayer.” It really doesn’t get any more to the point than that. Don’t rely on technology to convey your message. While an in-person thanks is a lovely gesture, an e-mail note doesn’t reflect the same effort of the giver. If you really want to let someone know you’re sincerely grateful for their gesture of kindness, a hand-written note is the best means to accomplish the task. Don’t get hung up on formalities. The thank-you note follows the same rules as basic letter writing: Dear Aunt Jane, followed by the body of the note, and the closing, such as Sincerely, All best, or Thanks again. Choose phrasing suited to the occasion. Don’t be afraid. They’re just words, after all. Use them. It’s fun.
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food for thought » Sarah Gaede
Bon Appétit! THE ORIGINAL CELEBRITY CHEFS CAME UP THE HARD WAY. They
Another seminal celebrity chef who remains one of my favorites is Jacques Pépin. In the 1970s, before cable television, if you were going to see a big name chef you had to go see him (they were mostly hims back then) in the flesh. Jacques gave a demonstration in Atlanta that I still remember, and not just for the fabulous food. As one of my cooking school comrades observed: “He’s so attractive—all five seven of him.” If you count 8th-grade home economics as my introduction to cooking, I’ve been at it for 50 years. I know how to read recipes and how to write them, so my standards are high. Mark Bittman is the one I usually turn to first. His recipes are clear, wellwritten, and simple. Even if you think you know it all, I recommend his How to Cook Everything as a reference. For contemporary recipes à la française, I love Ina Garten, even though she does have a show on the Food Network. Sometimes I double-check with Mark or Julia to make sure Ina is steering me the right way, but mostly I’m delighted with her creations. To celebrate summer and celebrities, here are two of my all-time favorites, one old and one new. The two dishes together would be perfect for a light summer supper, served with a dry rosé. Ina Garten’s Vegetable Tian, from Barefoot in Paris, is amazingly fla-
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Courtesy of Paul Child/© PBS
If you count 8th-grade home economics as my introduction to cooking, I’ve been at it for 50 years.
weren’t plucked out of obscurity and given their own shows on the Food Network because of their over-the-top personalities (coughPaulaDeencough.) In the beginning, of course, there was Julia Child. She was the one from whom all others proceeded, some worthy of the title, some not so much. I fell in love with Julia when I was in junior high school and watched her on “The French Chef.” With Mastering the Art of French Cooking in hand, my friend Laurie and I, who would have been hard-pressed to scramble an egg, made petit fours, consisting of genoise cake, apricot filling, and rum-flavored fondant icing that my father still remembers as having adhered to every surface in the kitchen. We also made croquembouche for French club. Wikipedia defines it nicely: A French dessert consisting of choux pastry balls piled into a cone and bound with threads of caramel. (And no, we were not on crack cocaine—it hadn’t been invented in the 1960s.) I still marvel that we managed to pull it off. I have way more sense these days than to attempt that kind of project. That’s why God gave us bakeries—something the French know very well.
vorful. It could serve as a main dish for two with salad and bread or as a side with grilled meat or fish. I can’t count how many times I’ve made the Peach Gratin from Everyday Cooking with Jacques Pépin, though not always with peaches. Plums and nectarines are wonderful as well. It’s a great last-minute dessert to make with ingredients I usually have on hand.
Ina Garten’s Vegetable Tian The prettiest presentation will result from potatoes, zucchini, and tomatoes that are about the same circumference, but don’t make yourself crazy. • Good olive oil • 2 large onions, cut in half and sliced (I like to use Vidalia) • 2 large garlic cloves, peeled and minced • 1 pound small Yukon Gold or red potatoes, unpeeled • 3/4 pound zucchini • 1 1/4 pounds small tomatoes • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, plus 5 or 6 extra sprigs • 2 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Brush a 9 x 13 x 2-inch (or oval equivalent) glass or ceramic baking dish with olive oil. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet and cook the onions over medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, until translucent but not brown. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Spread the onion mixture on the bottom of the baking dish. Meanwhile, slice the potatoes, zucchini, and tomatoes in 1/4-inch thick slices. Layer them alternately in the dish on top of the onions, fitting them tightly in a single layer. (Depending on how obsessive you are, this can be either a random pattern or an artistic masterpiece.) Sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme leaves, and thyme sprigs and drizzle with 1 more tablespoon olive oil. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Uncover the dish, remove the thyme sprigs, sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake for another 30 minutes, or until browned. Serve warm.
Jacques Pépin’s Peach Gratin • 3 ripe unpeeled peaches (about 1 pound) or other soft fruit • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed • 1 large egg • 1/2 cup heavy cream • 2 tablespoons chopped almonds or pecans • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice the peaches directly off the pit and arrange in a circular pattern in a round, shallow glass or ceramic quiche or pie pan. Place a few slices in the center in a decorative pattern to simulate the center of a flower. Sprinkle peaches with the brown sugar. Whisk the egg with the cream and pour the mixture over the fruit. Sprinkle with the nuts and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until browned and slightly caramelized.
News, classical music and more 88.7 FM Muscle Shoals • 100.7 FM Huntsville www.apr.org
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lowedown » Claire Stewart
What was your first live concert? “I went to see KISS when I was seven. It was definitely an eye opening experience… It was different.” “I went to N’Sync when I was 8. Ehh… It was all right I guess”
—Ian McCalister
“I saw Chicago at Roosevelt Stadium in New Jersey. I still love them.” —Donna Brown
—Jared Hanel
Ian
Jared
“Underoath’s last show in Tampa. It was incredible!” —Victoria Witt
“I saw Neil Young when I was in college. It was the same night as a mandatory sorority event. I just quit the sorority and went to the concert.” —Jill Stewart
Victoria
Jill
Donna
“I went to see Santana with my mom and slammed my finger in the door on the way in. I didn’t want to leave so we got some ice from someone’s beer cooler and enjoyed the show.” —Jessica Ramsay
“My first concert was The Eagles in the Oakland Coliseum. I can’t stand them now but I thought they were pretty good at the time.” —Dan Sanders
“I saw Damien Rice at the Civic Opera House in Chicago. It was absolutely amazing.” —Drew Bernd
Drew
Jessica Dan
“My dad was a musician so I went to a lot of concerts as a kid. I don’t know what my first was, but I remember him playing with Stevie Ray Vaughan in a bar in Kansas and wearing big headphones because it was so loud.” —T.J. Wyatt
T.J.
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lowedown » What was your first live concert? “I saw the Grateful Dead in Louisville in the 1970s. It was killer! It was the best show.” —Clyde Smith
“I saw Def Leppard in the 80s in El Paso. It was awesome!” —Marcia Freeland
Clyde
“My first concert was VEISHEA on Iowa State’s campus. I didn’t pay. I just sat outside the fence and listened to some great artists. It was a pretty awesome experience!” —Miles Conlan
Marcia
“It was 1978 in San Diego with my mother, and I was about 12. We saw Rose Royce and we were in the front row and I was already much taller than my mom. I just remember that big snake!”
Miles
“It was either Roxette or the Eurythmics. The only bad concert I ever saw was Stevie Nicks.” —David Nuttall
—Willette Battle
David
Willette 96 | NOALAPRESS . COM | J ULY /AUGUST 2013
All respondents were interviewed at Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment
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Sarah Frances Shotts, Sarah Corinne Shotts, Ivy Albert, and Stacey Gardner
Pennie Keene, Sandy Knowling, Anna Knowling, and Pam Honkanen
scene
Pam Honkanen, Karen Kimbrough, and Pam Gann
Katie Darden, McLaine Kent, Betsy Byrum, and Abbey Steed
Mary Ena Heath, Brenda Milberger, and Frances Huffman
Kat McEwen, Tracy McEwen, Mackie Bethay
Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Debutante Tea and Service Day M AY 2123, 2013 THE LEDGES COUNTRY CLUB
Emma Louise Ennis, Katherine Walker, Blanton Calvert, and Jacqueline Heard
Donna Rush, Stacey Gardner, Ivy Albert, and Suzanne Byrum
Celie and Katie Darden, JoAnna Propst, and Thonda Thompson
Alli Schutzenhofer, Sarah Katherine Ordway, Marley Woody, and Lisa Ordway
Alexandra Martin, Meg Pepper, Allison Moody, Maggie Buell, and Lily Teague
Blanton Calvert, Lexie Gates Rasco, Katherine Walker, and Emma Louise Ennis
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parting shot Âť Armosa Studios
Chance and Chelsea make their getaway.
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Dean Bertoncelj
2CELLOS Friday, October 25, 2013 • 7:30 p.m. From Vegas with Elton John . . . 2CELLOS!
• Friday, October 25, 2013, at 7:30 p.m. • Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, VBC • Tickets only $25 - $50 These classically-trained musicians really rock, performing the greatest hits of U2, Coldplay, The Police, Muse, Michael Jackson, Sting, Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, Rihanna, AC/DC, Kings of Leon and more! Get a sample of their energetic talent at www.2cellos.com. On sale Monday, July 22, 9:00 a.m.
An HSO Special Presentation
Tickets: 256-539-4818 or www.hso.org
Performed without orchestra JULY/AUGUST 2013 | NOALAPRESS.COM | 100