Alabama Gulf Coast Magazine Summer 2010 Issue

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George Washington Carver What Will You Discover? A Link to the Links... The Coast’s Best Golf May We Recommend... Our Favorite Places to Dine, Shop & Explore July 4th Celebrate Family, Friends & Freedom SUMMER 2010

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Alabama Gulf Coast Magazine is your resource for whats going on in the Gulf Coast area.

Transcript of Alabama Gulf Coast Magazine Summer 2010 Issue

Page 1: Alabama Gulf Coast Magazine Summer 2010 Issue

George Washington CarverWhat Will You Discover?

A Link to the Links...The Coast’s Best Golf

May We Recommend...Our Favorite Places to Dine, Shop & Explore

July 4thCelebrate Family,Friends & Freedom SUMMER 2010

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table of contents

m a g a z i n em a g a z i n e

Welcome to Alabama Coast ................. 4

featuresMessage from “LuLu” .......................... 8The Gulf Coast is Open For Business!

George Washington Carver ................ 11Extraordinary Visionary

Mobile ................................................ 12Where Past Meets Future

Fourth of July on the Coast ................. 17Happy Birthday America!

Mobile Museum of Art ....................... 18Celebrating Women in the Arts

Golf Alabama Style ............................ 22Forget Palm Springs

Eastern Shore ..................................... 26Paradise Found

Gulf Beaches ...................................... 28Beauty and the Beast

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo ..... 30

Hot Nights ........................................... 43Cool Jazz

Oil Spill FAQ ........................................ 47

See the Disc-Connected K9 Frisbee Dogs at the Gulf Coast Balloon Festival in Foley June 18–20

On the Cover: Johnny Armstrong invites you to enjoy one of Chef Steve Zucker’s specialties on the deck of Bimini Bob’s

directoriesEntertainment and Dining ........ 32-35

Shopping ................................... 36-37

Attractions ................................ 38-39

Events .................................... 40-43

Maps ..................................... 44-45

Advertiser Directory ................... 46

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Summertime on the ALBAMA COAST elicits so

many memories for me....growing up “over the

Bay” in Point Clear...lettuce and tomato sand-

wiches with newly picked Baldwin County

tomatoes on Smith’s Bakery white bread...

Rain showers ratcheting off the tin roof of the

bay house...picking freshly boiled blue crabs...

waterskiing on the bay and, when it was too

rough, on Fish River...the rare, joyous shouts of

JUBILEE!!....and of course the sunsets.

If you’re a visitor to the Alabama Coast, you’ll be making your own memories–and I

guarantee you they’ll be special ones. You’ll see why those of us who call this “home”

feel we are truly blessed.

Please use ALABAMA COAST MAGAZINE as your guide. Throughout its pages, we

introduce you to some of our favorite places and the best choices for where you can DINE,

SHOP, PLAY and EXPLORE. To help, we’ve divided the region into three areas–Mobile

Bay, the Eastern Shore and the Gulf Beaches–and profiled each within the magazine.

Other feature stories educate, entertain and entice you to embrace the treasures of our

little part of the world.

For help getting around, you’ll find area and local maps on pages 44-45 and an events

calendar and business directory beginning on page 30.

As I’m writing this, we have an “oily hurricane” attacking our shores. In searching for the

words to adequately describe this situation, I came across a piece by Lucy Buffett that

captures the essence of what we’re feeling. You can read it on page 8.

Many people, when they see the enormity of what we’re facing, are anxious to try to

help. Thank you–and you are helping by simply being here. You can find more informa-

tion, including local resource contacts, on Page 47.

Thanks again for being here and we hope you enjoy this edition of ALABAMA COAST

MAGAZINE. We invite you to share your feelings and your experiences by sending us a

note or joining us on Facebook.

David Calametti

Publisher/EditorDavid Calametti

Art DirectorDee Cariglino

Creative SupportPerri FarlowMark CalamettiBronwyn Coffeen

ContributorsDanny CalamettiWhitney CalamettiStacy WellbornMarilyn CulpepperLucy Buffett

PhotographyTad Denson myshotz.com

Michael Mastromichaelmastro.com

Cover photoSkip BaumhowerSkipbaumhower.com

Contact informationPublished by: Discover Gulf Coast Alabama, LLC305 N. Conception Street, Suite 6, Mobile, AL [email protected]©2010 All rights reserved.

m a g a z i n em a g a z i n e

Welcome!

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Dear coastal inhabitants everywhere and all who know the joy of putting their toes in the ocean:

I can’t remember when we have had a lovelier spring along the Gulf Coast. In recent years, we have gone from crisp, clear mornings in February to tropical 90s temps by mid-March. But this year, it finally seemed that we were getting back to normal–back to the easy, Southern rhythms of my childhood, with the winter season moving gently into a luscious spring. Spring was taking its own sweet time unfolding before diving head-on into the desperate heat of summer.

Everyone could feel it. You couldn’t help but notice the maj-esty and color of the coastal foliage bursting with brilliant pinks and purples, sounding the calls that we wait for all year long: “Let’s go to the beach!” “The fish are biting at the Big Mouth!” “Let’s take a boat ride!” “Tadpoles are out in the creek!”

That is how we live here on the Gulf Coast. Our love of the water–the Gulf, the bays, the rivers, the estuaries–and the way we enjoy it is absolutely holistic.

It transcends race, religion, socioeconomic status, age, gender and political affiliation. The Gulf Coast is where the everyday person can play. We love where we live and are proud of it. We get amused sharing it and seeing the surprise on folks’ faces when they realize that a little piece of unlikely paradise exists smack at the bottom of this magnificent country of ours.

So imagine our dismay, anger, grief and absolute heartbreak over the ongoing catastrophe of crude oil continuously and ar-rogantly flowing into our beautiful Gulf of Mexico.

This is indeed a major challenge for us physically, emotion-ally, environmentally and economically. Personally, I prefer to remain positive about the oil spill’s impact, because I know mountains can be moved with a positive attitude. Why wouldn’t that work with a runaway well?

I do, however, live in a very real world, and I know that our corner of this world stands to be affected by the oil spill.

As we are called to action, we will respond with the daunt-less spirit of coastal people, especially those born in the hurri-cane corridor. We will weather this storm as we have weathered the other monsters that have roared upon our shores in the past: by working hard, side by side, with dedication, compassion and a sense of community, and earning some fun in the process.

I am hoping that there will be little damage or interrup-tion of beach recreation. Perhaps the oil spill will be just an inconvenience, much like too many jellyfish in the water or the occasional riptides. If not, we are going to need everyone’s love, support and help. So I have a very special invitation for people to join us here in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and on Dauphin Island and Mobile Bay.

Don’t cancel your plans or reservations. This could be one of the most memorable vacations you will ever have. Most of you travel with children. What a great opportunity to teach our kids so many valuable life lessons — from the beauty of vol-unteering to the importance of helping your neighbor during a crisis, learning about the fragile ecosystem that created the remarkable Gulf of Mexico, and meeting new friends from all over the country with the same purpose of keeping our beauti-ful shores safe for our children and wildlife.

Recently, I asked a friend of mine’s 6-year-old if she knew how many oceans there were. “One, Miss Lucy,” she promptly responded. Then with a little hesitation, she added, “Don’t they all touch?” Out of the mouths of babes.

What is happening in our back yard could just as easily be happening in yours. But does it matter? We are all one. We all touch. Am I outraged? Damn right! Is there a need for account-ability? Damn right! But that is not my job. There are others who are trained and better equipped to master that task.

I’m a fry cook. I’m open for business. And so is the Alabama Gulf Coast. We will take each day as it comes and make the best of it. I am asking all of you who love this area as much as I do and love your own coastal areas to please not abandon us.

I promise you we will welcome you with open arms, some ice-cold sweet tea, an ocean of belly laughs, a plate full of scrumptious food and a humble, grateful heart. ■

Lucy “LuLu” Buffett is owner of LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores and the author of “Crazy Sista Cooking: Cuisine and Conversation with Lucy Anne Buffett.” Her e-mail address is [email protected]. Photograph by Michael Mastro, www.michaelmastro.com

A MESSAGE FROM “LULU”

Gulf Coast Alabama is Open for Business!

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Visitors to the Museum of Mobile this Summer can acquaint them-selves with one of Alabama’s greatest minds and a person who gen-uinely changed the world: George Washington Carver.

Long the subject of admiration and a bit of well-intended mythology–no, he did not invent peanut butter–Carver was inarguably a genius. Born into slavery, Carver’s destiny was set when he was kidnapped in infancy by slave raiders–then abandoned–and subsequently adopted by his Missouri owners, Moses and Susan Carver.

Moses Carver was a farmer who clearly shaped his adopted son’s inter-est not only in agriculture but in developing ways to make the most of everything grown. Although Moses and Susan were not formally edu-cated, they made sure that George and his brother were, which led to his completing college and securing a teaching position at Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) where much of his research was conducted.

George Washington Carver is credited with having developed more than 300 uses for the peanut. His contributions in working with plants and their potential went far beyond the valuable legume. Indeed, Carver ex-tended the fruits of his research into the development of biofuels with Henry Ford and a variety of medical products. He also developed a “por-table classroom”–recreated for the exhibit here–that assisted him in helping farm families develop better practices for growing, harvesting and preserving their crops.

Credited with the philosophy that “nature creates no waste,” Carver was conscious of the need to preserve and protect our ecology long before it was popular to “go green.” Today’s consumers would be well advised to take a cue from Carver’s innovation and regard for the environment.

While engaged in his scientific and educational work, Carver also strove to make life better for all, especially the underprivileged. A humanitarian with a generous spirit, Carver traveled extensively, inspir-ing hope among the hopeless. “We are the architects of our own fortune and the hewers out of our own destiny,” Carver once observed. By visit-ing this special exhibit, visitors will no doubt come away with a desire to build on their own dreams to make them reality.

An Extraordinary Man with a Mighty Vision, an exhibit celebrating the life and work of this remarkable man, is at the museum on Royal Street and will conclude on July 11. Admission is free with general admission to the museum (adults, $5, seniors, $4, students, $3 and free to children under 6.) The exhibit is organized by The Field Museum in collaboration with Tuskegee University and the National Park Service. The Alabama Farmers Federation and ALFA Insurance are sponsors for the Mobile show. ■

For information about this special exhibit, the Museum of Mobile, group rates, programming or more, visit www.museumofmobile.com or call 251-208-7569.

GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER

Extraordinary Visionary

Photos courtesy of the Field Museum

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Beautiful, historic Mobile, the heartbeat of the Alabama coast, is an exciting city with friendly people, great restaurants and a plethora of entertainment spots and memorable sites to visit.

The Port City is the state’s oldest–but don’t think it is just a sleepy little Southern town. While Mobile celebrates its rich history with mu-seums that allow visitors to travel back in time, it also features a world-class museum of art and an exciting, interactive science museum–and coming in 2011, the Maritime Museum of the Gulf Coast will chronicle and celebrate our long connection with the water.

A visit to Downtown Mobile is something of an experiment in diver-sity. While surrounded by historic buildings, a visitor will certainly note the contemporary influences that contribute to the vibrancy of this area. Still, the quintessential core of the downtown is its most significant and historic structures. The Old Southern Market on Royal Street, now home to the

MOBILE

Where Past Meets Future

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Museum of Mobile, once served as the City’s seat of government. In fact, the 1857 building is a National Historic Landmark and the longest operating municipal site in the U.S. Today it houses an outstanding interpretation of Mobile history with permanent and rotating exhibits while sharing space with the Gulf Coast Exploreum which also features an IMAX theater.

Mobile’s two lovely downtown parks offer office workers and visitors a bit of respite from the daily hustle. Historic Bienville Square was laid out in 1824 and its canopy of oaks have shielded generations of Mobilians and fed multitudes of squirrels over the years. Cathedral Square, just a few blocks west, is an open park featuring a fountain where children frequently find a bit of wet fun as compensation for being patient as their parents browse in eclectic galleries and gift shops or enjoy wonderful food from nearby restaurants. Each Saturday morning from May through July, the square is filled with a Farmers and Crafts Market where fresh produce and unusual specialty items may be purchased while live music sets the tone for casual browsing, shopping and chatting with friends old and new. Cathedral Square also serves as the nucleus for the Second Friday Art Walks and the annual Arts Alive! celebration each Spring.

Food is a big part of Dauphin Street, one of oldest streets in Mobile, and it is varied. Three Georges Chocolates is a must-stop to satisfy your sweet tooth but if you need a bit of salt, a short walk will place you at the Peanut Shop that smells as inviting as its crunchy offerings taste. Peanuts may be the sig-nature draw but think of a nut and you’ll likely find it perfectly roasted in the tiny shop.

Enjoy great casual food and sandwiches at Heroes, The Spot of Tea or Café 219; traditional coastal seafood, served with a healthy dollop of kitsch, at Wintzell’s Oyster House; or go up the scale a bit and dine at The Bull, Café 615, NOJA or The Terrace Room. Looking for a little international flavor? Try Samurai J, Liquid Lounge, Dauphin St. Taqueria or the Mediterranean Sandwich Shop. Nightlife is part of the city’s appeal and the venues range from rocking clubs to quiet coffee shops; friendly “regulars” bars to opera, symphony and big name performers at the Saenger Theatre. Another entertainment option, celebrating its second year in downtown, is Mobile’s only independent movie house–The Crescent Theatre. Enjoy an ice cold beer or a glass of wine while viewing wonderful, challenging and often quirky films in this intimate oasis on Dauphin Street.

Mobile’s signature feature is natural. Magnificent live oaks spread their loving arms over the city’s streets. Known as the Azalea City, Mobile is true to the title each spring but seldom is the city without beautiful flora of virtually every color and type in public spaces and proud private lawns. There are very few drives that can equal the drive west from downtown on either Government Street or Spring Hill Avenue. Majestic indeed.

Mobile has eight identified Historic Districts beginning downtown and stretching west. All are on the National Registry

of Historic Places and the neighborhoods reflect the quality and character of our wonderful Southern Gulf Coast home. The Oakleigh Garden District is home to the City’s Official House Museum as well as Callaghan’s Irish Social Club, named one of the best neighborhood pubs in America. Mobile’s Midtown section is, as the name implies, the linkage between the historic city center and the neighborhoods and suburbs which grew west (away from the river) over the years. The Ashland Place neighbor-hood nurtures a delightful collection of boutiques, restaurants and shops. At its edge you’ll find The Dew Drop Inn, one of the oldest restaurants in the city, in its heart is Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream, Queen G’s and Chuck’s Place, along with newcomer Ashland Pub. Another new icon is Taste! offering a huge selec-tion of retail wines along with an inviting wine bar. Specialty wine tastings always draw a crowd.

Continuing your trek due west brings you to Spring Hill. Originally a summer destination because of its (relative) eleva-tion, the area has been a community since the early 1800’s. In recent years, the “Village of Spring Hill” has emerged as a most dynamic grass roots initiative–securing beautification funds, development grants, changes in city codes and reigniting a

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strong sense of neighborhood. A central hub for all this activity is–of course–a coffee house, Carpe Diem. Located across Old Shell Road from Spring Hill College, the oldest Catholic college in the country, this locally owned establishment not only roasts its own coffee, but the national competition as well (It seems the “_bucks” stop here). Another wonderful find is in the Holiday Shops–The Tea Room–which bills itself as a traditional tea room with a southern accent by day and Spring Hill’s Gastro Pub by night. Just a little further west and you’ll find two havens of beauty and peace. The Mobile Museum of Art offers 95,000 square feet of contemporary art galleries featuring a permanent collection of over 8,000 pieces as well as world-renowned travel-ing exhibitions and regional art exhibits. The Museum is located on beautiful Municipal Park which features a playground, picnic areas and a pleasant walking trail. Among the places this will lead you is the Mobile Botanical Gardens, a 100-acre site of cultivated gardens, woodland trails, and a longleaf pine forest established in 1974 by a dedicated group of horticulturists to preserve the natural aspects of the local environment.

If you flew into Mobile, in all likelihood you’re now re-tracing your steps as the Mobile Regional Airport is located in the western section of the city. West Mobile represents the newest neighborhoods of Mobile–having largely sprouted up in the last 30 years or so. A visitor to this area would be comforted with all the recognizable signs along the roadways, yet there are plenty of opportunities for unique experiences as well. Banana Docks Café and Via Emilia offer outstanding culinary options. The Shed BBQ and Blues Joint brings the taste of the Mississippi Delta in a big way. Shopping options

of all varieties abound and for a place to relax at the end of the day, The Crooked Martini is a welcome retreat.

One last must see recommendation. Any trip to Mobile must include time spent at the USS ALABAMA Memorial Park located on the Causeway that serves as the southern entrance to the city. The mighty battleship was decorated 9 times in World War II. Visitors can tour the ship and get feel for what the fight-ing men who served on it endured to protect not only those on their home front but freedom throughout the world. More than 20 other craft including the USS DRUM submarine, helicopters and airplanes are part of the exhibit.

It is impossible to visualize this grand city that has deftly blended grand historic structures with remarkable modern ar-chitecture without actually being here. Once you have visited, you are sure to return. ■

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LoDa ArtWalk A free, family-friendly event held from 6-9 p.m. the second Friday of each month in the Lower Dauphin St. (LoDa) Arts District. Each ArtWalk venue showcases works from visual artists, live musicians, local performers and much more. Experience this growing Mobile tradition with a great downtown feel–A Guide to Downtown Art Spaces is available at any participating venue and many other downtown locations. For more information, please visit www.ncsmobile.org.

Participating VenuesArt Off Centre/Room 19276 S. Joachim St.251-208-5671space301.comBienville Books/The Haunted Book Loft109 Dauphin St.251-438-2904bienvillebooks.comMon–Sat, 10–6The Blind Mule57 N Claiborne St.251-694-6853myspace.com/theblindmuleM–F, 11–11Blue Velvet Studio709 Dauphin St. #2850-375-4481bluevelvetstudio.orgCathedral Square Gallery612 Dauphin St.251-694-0278cathedralsquaregallery.comTue–Sat, 11–5; Sun, 11–3Crescent Theater208 Dauphin St.251-438-2005crescenttheater.comEdwards Glass Studio501 Dauphin St.251-406-1587edwardsaartglass.comMon–Fri, 10–5; Sat, by appt.

inside•up7 N. Conception St.251-438-6788insideupmobile.comMon–Fri, 10–5:30; Sat, 10–2Koch Galleries507 St. Louis St.251-680-7641Mon–Fri, 10–5; Sat, by appt.Liquid Lounge661 Dauphin St.251-432-0109myspace.com/liquidloungemobileMon–Sun, 5–2Mobile Arts Council318 Dauphin St.251-432-9796mobilearts.orgMon–Sat, 9–5The Paper Wasp306 Dauphin St.251-648-2058Mon–Fri, 11–4; Sat–Sun, 11–2Robertson Gallery450 Dauphin St.251-433-1311Mon–Sat, 10–5robertsongallerymobile.comSerda’s Coffee Company3 S Royal St.251-415-3000

Mon–Thu, 6a–11p; Fri, 6a–12a; Sat, 8a–12a; Sun, 8a–6pserdascoffee.comSoul Kitchen Music Hall219 Dauphin St251-433-5958soulkitchenmobile.comSecond Fri, 6–9; Before eventsSpace 301301 Conti St.251-208-5671space301.comWed–Sat, 10–5; Sun, 12–5The Victorian Teal Gallery357 Congress [email protected]–Thu, 10–5; Fri, 10–2Sat, by appt.wellbornIdeas356 Dauphin St.251-281-2005wellbornideas.comSecond Fri, 6–9Mon-Fri, by appt.Homemade in Alabama/Devlin Wilson Studio453 Dauphin St. Opening July 9.

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The Alabama Coast is a great place to celebrate the anniversary of our Nation’s birth. Picnics and barbeque, baseball and watermelon, outdoor concerts and fireworks – all the required elements are there. While almost every community has a celebration of some sort and many have firework displays, the two largest events occur in Orange Beach and Mobile. Here’s a menu to choose from.

FairhopeSince the holiday falls on Sunday this year, you’ve got plenty of opportunity to expand the celebration. Start off on Friday, with the monthly Artwalk in downtown Fairhope–always a great eve-ning. On Saturday, head over to the Point at the Grand Hotel for “Under the Stars” featuring fireworks, followed by a “Sinatra-ish” Jazz concert. It’s free and open to the public. The Grand Hotel, 251-928-9201.

The City of Fairhope will host its annual Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks display, again this year, in Henry George Park and the Fairhope Municipal Pier. The Baldwin Pops Band Independence Day Concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Henry George Park. A va-riety of patriotic music will be played before and during the fire-works display. The Fairhope fireworks display, coordinated by the Fairhope Volunteer Fire Department, will begin at approximately 9 p.m. For more information, call 251-929-1466.

Orange BeachThis year, The Wharf has partnered with Grammy nominated country sensation Montgomery Gentry for a live concert at The Amphitheater featuring patriotic songs and dedications and what is billed as the “grandest fireworks extravaganza on the coastal Panhandle.” Main Street at The Wharf will be filled with festive ac-tivities all day including a hot dog eating contest, and games hosted by the Orange Beach Fire Department. Info: 251-433-0033.

MobileWith the majestic USS Alabama as a backdrop, the City of Mobile honors America with live entertainment, flyovers by the US Coast Guard and a spectacular and stirring fireworks display. If you’re staying at one of the downtown hotels you’ll have a front row seat (special tip for those at the Battle House–get to the roof-top garden early). While there is plenty of parking at Battleship Memorial Park, you should plan on arriving early–or plan on pulling off to the side of the causeway and watching from your car. For details, call 251-208-2000.

DaphneSponsors a Jubilee Independence Day Celebration at Trione Sports Complex featuring family activities, games and fireworks. For more information, call 251-621-3703.

4TH OF JULY ON THE COAST

Happy BirthdayAmerica!

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RetrospectiveFor more than 30 years, Claudia DeMonte has dealt with the roles of women in contemporary societies and lectured on world art as a distin-guished professor at the University of Maryland. The development of her art has taken her through a variety of materials combining a sober-ing commentary on the status of women in the world with lighthearted humor. Claudia DeMonte: Mapping Beauty, on view through July 11, is essentially a retrospective of the artist’s career.

Throughout her explorations of media, DeMonte has remained consis-tent. She has said she wants her work to challenge ideas about women’s everyday lives and the concept of beauty in global culture. One such series, Female Fetishes, is made of stereotypical domestic objects such as irons and teddy bears–actual-size wooden objects that she densely covers with 29 different pewter “milagros” nailed into each piece.

Mapping Beauty will be complemented with DeMonte’s collection of dolls from around the world on display in the museum’s Education Wing. Real Beauty uses traditional handmade dolls to demonstrate the ho-mogenization of beauty standards around the world because of mass-produced plastic dolls and globalization.

Celebrating Southern WomenThe question “Why are there no great women artists?”–which generated tremendous debate a generation ago–has been answered: There are! The exhibit Shoot’n Southern: Women Photographers, Past and Present, on display through July 18, features more than 70 contemporary women

photographers from or working in the Southeastern United States, as well

as historically important Southern women in photography.

Important 20th century figures will be showcased such as Eudora Welty

(1909-2001), particularly her photographs of “socially invisible” African

Americans in 1930s Mississippi, that reveal a sense of empathy that

would contribute to her later accolades in literature. This empathy may

be seen in contemporary photographs by another Mississippi-born artist,

Karen Graffeo. Her intimate portraits of the Roma, known as “Gypsies,”

reveal the dignity and human spirit of Europe’s “undesirables.”

Women have had an important role in the development of photography,

from the time photography was a pale imitation of painting to its current

status as a major component of contemporary art. The exhibition will

examine the prominent role of women artists in fine art photography, in

particular those who have lived and worked in the Southeastern states

and feature a broad range of techniques, from the pin-hole camera and

multiple exposures to digitally manipulated creations.

Give and TakeExploring the margins between reality and myth, Brooklyn-based artist

Kate Clark combines taxidermy and ceramics to construct truly mesmer-

izing animal sculptures with human faces. On display through July 11,

Kate Clark: Give and Take presents new, large-scale sculptures by the

artist. Her creatures are believable, true to life in size and pose, but im-

possible to comprehend as authentic.

MOBILE MUSEUM OF ART

Celebrating Women of Arts

LOCATED IN A SERENE GARDEN SETTING ADJACENT TO LANGAN MUNICIPAL PARK, M.M.O.A. OFFERS A

COOL RESPITE FROM SUMMER’S HEAT YET CHALLENGES YOU WITH THREE POWERFUL EXHIBITS.

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Beginning in the 1800s taxidermy was used by hunters

to showcase their trophies. Since that time the pro-

cess has been used playfully to show animals in human

activities or combining species to create mythical

creatures such as the griffin or jackalope. Clark’s work

pushes the boundaries even further with a synthesis of

human and animal elements. Mortal faces on beastly

bodies mirror safety, gentility, and cultivation, yet Clark

leaves visible the seams in her sculpture, reminding the

viewer that the exotic and wild have been undone to

construct such striking portraits. The artist asks us to

embrace contradiction and question man’s uncertain

relationship with an underlying violence sheathed just

beneath a guise of control. ■

Kate Clark, Life From Within

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S U M M E R 2 0 1 0

www.bellingrath.org

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When you think of outdoor activities along the Alabama Gulf Coast, golf may not top the list. But thanks to two different, but very valuable initiatives, some of the best recreational golf in the country can be found right here on our Coast.

In the late 1980’s, Dr. David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama borrowed a page from the movie script, “Field of Dreams.” Bronner decided to “build-it-and-they-will-come”–not to a baseball diamond in a corn field, but to a dazzling collection of public golf courses in the great state of Alabama.

Bronner’s idea was to use a hot (but clean-burning) vehicle like golf to boost tourism, attract retirees, and spur economic growth within the state. His vision was on a grand scale–big, really big. You see, Dr. Bronner wasn’t looking to build just an 18 hole public golf course, he wanted to build 378 holes at eight spectacular sites throughout the entire state, and all at one time!

Bronner set out immediately to find the right group to put his plan in motion. He brought in Bobby Vaughan, the former director of golf at Tanglewood in Clemmons, N.C., to put together the team for this massive project. Vaughan formed SunBelt Golf Corporation which would develop, con-

GOLF ALABAMA STYLE

Forget Palm Springs

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struct, operate and manage all 18 golf courses. Vaughan began hiring experts throughout the golf industry and, from that moment, the dream of creating an easily accessible group of public golf courses, which combine quality, value and genuine hospitality, was being realized.

When you’re looking for someone to design 18 golf courses, start at the top. Enter legendary architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., arguably the premier golf course architect in the world. In his unparalleled career Jones had designed more than 500 golf courses around the world, many of which are listed among Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.” Jones jumped at the chance and emerged from semi-retirement to tackle the project.

Once final approvals were given, Vaughan and his staff at SunBelt Golf took off with the largest golf course construction project ever undertaken at one time anywhere in the world. The Trail would offer 378 holes stretching to over 100 miles of golf. The invasion of earth moving equipment throughout the state was tantamount to a D-Day of bulldozers. Over 700 pieces of equipment were in operation at one time.

After all eight sites were opened, construction began on two new sites and was completed in 2005, expanding the Trail to 10 different sites. The historic Lakewood Golf Club in Point Clear has undergone extensive renovations and is the Trail’s latest addition, bringing the total to 11 Trail sites, 26 courses...and 468 incredible holes!

These are not “manufactured” courses–all partake of the natural topography. Each was extracted from the land, not im-posed on it. The “Trail” offers genuine championship layouts that will stand the test of time and pose major tests of golf for years to come. The rationale: No one talks about or remembers the easy courses. What lodges in a golfer’s mind is the one brilliant shot that (momentarily) conquers a tough hole.

One of the most unique aspects of the Trail are the tee loca-tions. You see, the tee markers on the Trail are pegged to ability level, not age or gender. The courses were designed to measure as short as 4,700 yards and as long as about 7,700 yards from the tournament tees, with as many as 12 tee boxes in-between. The courses offer a tremendous amount of flexibility. As one Director of Golf put it, “The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is an incredible golfing experience for everyone. The courses will challenge the best golfers in the world, yet at the same time allow an enjoyable outing for the casual to beginning golfer.”

Now you certainly don’t think about golf when you head to the beach. Well at least you didn’t until R.C. Craft came along. Craft, owner & founder of Craft Farms, had an 870-acre gladiola farm since the ‘50s and a dream...to invite golf legend Arnold Palmer to design a golf course just north of the white-sand beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. In 1988, that dream came true and the Alabama Gulf Shores became a golf destination. R.C. Craft–a self-made man with a turf farm–convinced Arnold

Palmer–a self-made mega famous golf tycoon–to build a golf course on a flat sod farm in the middle of nowhere. At nearly the height of Arnold Palmer’s fame. The Craft Farms site didn’t even have plumbing–or any guarantee from the city of getting it anytime soon–when R.C. approached Arnie. No matter. The golf course got built, the people started coming and other golf courses followed, turning this area with 21 miles of white sugar sand beaches into a tourist destination for grownups. Now man-aged by Honours Golf, Craft Farms, Pennisula and Rock Creek offer three of the most fulfilling golfing opportunities on the entire Gulf Coast. As they say at Honours: “Come play near our creek, at our farm or near our beach!” ■

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Magnolia Grove—Mobile The property includes creeks, marsh-land, and lakes, with each of the 54 holes carved from a thick forest of hardwood and pine. Magnolia Grove was recently voted into Golf World Magazine’s Reader Choice Top 50 Public Courses. The Falls and Crossings courses were also named by Golf Digest’s Places to Play as two of the nation’s Great Value courses, and both courses were listed in America’s Top 50 Affordable Courses. The Crossings course plays host to the Bell Micro LPGA Classic held each May. 251-645-0075 or www.rtjgolf.com/magnoliagrove.

Lakewood Golf Club—Point Clear First built in 1947, Lakewood showcases fairways lined with 200-year-old oaks and a dramatic signature hole, the 14th on the Azalea course. Recently restored, the new designs lend themselves to superb conditioning year round. With the addition or expansion of ten water features over the span of the 36 championship holes as well as other inter-esting architectural features, golfers are faced with decisions at every corner. Lakewood Golf Club has several times been named to Golf Magazine’s Best Golf Resorts in America.The two courses are open to Lakewood members and hotel guests at the on-site Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa. 251-990-6312 or www.rtjgolf.com/lakewood

Craft Farms Golf Resort—Gulf Shores The Craft Farms Golf Resort features 36 holes designed by the golf icon, Arnold Palmer. These two public golf courses are the only courses in Alabama de-signed by Palmer. Located just north of the beautiful white sand beaches of Gulf Shores, both the Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend golf courses challenge golfers at every level while providing a peaceful, serene environment of the natural Alabama landscape. The courses have a distinctively coastal feel, with dwarf Bermuda grasses and numerous lakes that meander throughout the property. 251-968-7500 or www.craftfarms.com

Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club—Gulf Shores Of all the great coastal golf courses, Earl Stone’s creation at Peninsula may be the most unique. This 27-hole layout set on beautiful Mobile Bay is noth-ing short of spectacular as it boasts over 7,000 yards from the cham-pionship tees and has been rated 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest. Situated on 820 secluded acres and touched on two sides by the Bon Secour Wildlife Preserve, the natural beauty of Peninsula is a little slice of heaven right here along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. This masterful design winds through live oaks, cypress and natural vegetation, more than 30 lakes, and some of the area’s largest white-sand bunkers. 251-968-8009 or www.peninsulagolfclub.com

Rock Creek Golf Club—Fairhope The surprise at Rock Creek is the stunning topography, with some of Baldwin County’s high-est elevations overlooking freshwater wetlands and the Rock Creek basin. Located off the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, this 18-hole, Earl Stone design, recently honored by a 4 1/2 star Golf Digest rating, is enjoyable, forgiving and captivating. It’s a true test of golf where strategy and accuracy are the name of the game. 251 928-4223 or www.rockcreekgolf.com.

You can also find great golf at these courses:TimberCreek Golf Club—Daphne Offers players of all abilities a fabulous golf experience. A 27-hole championship layout designed by Earl Stone, TimberCreek offers scenic views of spacious, rolling fairways carved from a forest of Dogwoods, Magnolias, and Pines. Elevation changes, wetland preserves, and bountiful wildlife accentuate the flowing terrain, creating an atmo-sphere truly unique from other courses in the Gulf Coast region. 251-621-9900 or www.golftimbercreek.com.

Azalea City—Mobile Owned and operated by the City of Mobile, is a course enjoyed by all skill levels. The generous fairways are tree lined, and the greens are well manicured. Arnold Palmer and other well-known golfers have enjoyed playing here. This course was once recognized by “Golf Digest” as being one of the top thirty-six public courses in the U.S. Several holes offer panoramic views of the lake. 251-208-5150 or www.cityofmobile.org/azaleagolf.

YOUR GUIDE TO THE GREENS

Photographs: Lakewood, Page 22; Craft Farms, Peninsula, Page 23;

Magnolia Grove, Page 24

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Hwy 59 • Gulf Shores • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251-948-2445Visit us at our other location on Mobile Bay • 3733 Battleship Pkwy • 251-626-2188

www.originaloysterhouse.com

The Islands BestShopping & DiningOriginal Oyster House Trading Company

Jubilee Gifts & Apparel • Taylor’s SerendipityIncredible Candys • Geez Louise

Private Banquet Room and Deckfor groups up to 100 people.

At the Mobile location

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Come discover a sportsman’s paradise of year-round golfing, boating and fishing...warm breezes as you stroll along breathtaking Mobile Bay under a golden sunset...an artists’ haven for both beginners and advanced...festive cultural celebrations...Southern charm, friendly neighbors and magnolias...architectural delights...and fresh Gulf seafood to tempt every palette.

Located just minutes from met-ropolitan Mobile, AL and Pensacola, FL, the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, Alabama encompasses seven com-munities and municipalities: Daphne, Blakeley, Malbis, Montrose, Point Clear, Spanish Fort and Fairhope. The pace of life on the Eastern Shore is a world away; a unique community where residents take care to preserve the area’s heritage and breathtaking beauty. All of these destinations are only minutes apart on the Eastern Shore.

Eastern Shore residents know how to unwind! Here you’ll satisfy that passion for golf on challenging courses...launch a sailboat or cruiser from one of many marinas and launch sites...or keep fit with tennis, swimming or horseback riding. Recreational options abound at public parks and playgrounds, country clubs and health clubs.

Shopping along the Eastern Shore is truly a unique experience. Shops featuring clothing, home furnishings, native crafts, antiques and collectibles dot the Shore. Creating a true shoppers’ paradise!

Home to renowned artists, the Eastern Shore celebrates its rich heritage with the Arts and Crafts Festival in Fairhope and the Jubilee Festival in Daphne. Year-round cultural activities include live theatre productions, fine art exhibitions and a delightful concert series.

From fine dining to fast food, there’s a menu to please every palate. Sample fresh seafood, Creole and Southern favorites, in-novative café cuisine and ethnic delicacies served by the area’s diverse restaurants.

The Eastern Shore offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including walking, bike riding, sailing, fishing, and much more. The Eastern Shore Trailblazers trail begins at the U.S.S. Alabama on the Causeway and winds throughout the Eastern Shore all the way to Weeks Bay, and is 33 miles long. Users of the trail experience an abundance of wildlife sightings and enjoy the beauty of State Champion trees and wild flowers and landscaped beds blooming year round.*

A bit more on the three largest cities on the Eastern Shore: Fairhope, Alabama, founded in 1894, is an artist and writers

EASTERN SHORE

Paradise Found

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paradise. This relatively quiet community is home to some of the most accomplished practitioners of the cultural arts to be found in the U.S., Fairhope is attractive to the eye, soul and brain.

Book stores, art galleries and spe-cialty shops are part of the downtown scheme. Restaurants vary from simple, basic and delightful to elaborate and utterly enticing haute cuisine. The City operates an excellent horticultural de-partment that keeps the public spaces beautiful and serene. Fairhope has cul-tural offerings throughout the month, every month, ranging from art walks to book clubs. No cultural stone is left un-turned. Fairhope is replete with family friendly venues.

Several parks are located throughout the city, offering a variety of possibilities for recreation. The local library is also a welcoming escape for resident as well as visitor. Located at 501 Fairhope Ave, the Fairhope Public Library is a welcome respite/resource for all.

Nearby Daphne is an interesting city unto itself. Daphne is perhaps most famous for being one of the few places in the world to experience the phenom-enon known as a “Jubilee”. This event brings blue crabs, shrimp and fish into the shallow waters of the shoreline, just waiting to be scooped up by those wait-

ing to fill their ice chests. Thus the City of Daphne as earned the undisputed title of “The Jubilee City.”

The City of Spanish Fort was in-corporated on July 19th, 1993. Spanish Fort rests on a hill overlooking Mobile Bay, just a short distance from the City of Mobile. Our City’s history

dates back to 1781 shortly after the American Revolution when Spanish troops defending the City of Mobile engaged British troops attempting to recapture Mobile. ■

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Picture yourself in an exotic place that carries worries away on warm breezes and tosses them into beautiful seas as you bask in the sun on what seems to be an endless stretch of soft white sand. Don’t pinch yourself; it isn’t a dream. All that is needed to place yourself in the picture is to head to south Baldwin County and soon you will be immersed in paradise.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, on Highway 182 (commonly known as “Beach Highway”) at the southern end of Highway 59 constitute miles of fun and relaxation for visitors and residents of any age. Obviously best known as a place to dig your toes in the sand and splash in the inviting waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the beaches have much more to offer.

Restaurants meeting every taste and price range are plentiful. Most are family friendly–meaning that children are welcome. In fact, many of the restaurants provide play areas where kids can play games and hang out with their peers while Mom and Dad can enjoy satisfying adult beverages. A perfect spot for this is found right at the intersection of 59 and 182 at The Hangout.

A comfortable indoor restaurant, a pleasant outdoor dining restaurant, outdoor games and a sandy playground complete with a small sand hill for little ones to enjoy–The Hangout also features live music on outdoor stages from some of the best acts around. This relatively new landmark is a reincarnation of a favorite gathering spot from the ‘50s and is one of “the” stops on a beach vacation.

While the area is known for its delectable seafood creations there are plenty of places that serve juicy steaks, signature burg-ers and sandwiches and much more. For example, travel east a

few miles and you’ll find yourself at beautiful San Roc Cay which features great shopping and a truly fun spot–Northshore Bar and Grill. Northshore’s hospitality is as large and welcoming as its proprietor, Joey Ward who is frequently found behind the grill creating such succulent offerings as the amazing Hula Hula Shrimp Burger. Over in the intimate bar, be sure to order a Tiki Torcher and you won’t regret it. Don’t fear, kids are welcome and well accommodated with great burgers and fresh deli sand-wiches, salads and kid-friendly beverages. TVs are available but never conflict with tremendous live music nightly.

It is important to know that an appealing aspect of the beaches is that music is as much a part of the place as the sunshine. Talented local musicians can be found most nights performing up and down the beach everywhere from large restaurants, adults-only nightclubs to delis and coffee shops. Apart from the locals, many nationally known recording artists frequent the beach for festivals or even just “sit in” with house bands.

A trip down to The Silver Moon is always pleasant but es-pecially rewarding on a Thursday night. This is a time set aside especially for those artists performing original work. Given any Thursday, visitors will be treated to the works of legendary Jody Payne, longtime guitarist for Willie Nelson, Bo Roberts, singer, writer for both Willie Nelson and Kenny Chesney, and producer extraordinaire. Frequent appearances by the likes of Mikey Thompson, once a critical part of the Austin music scene but spending time with his toes in the sand here at the Gulf and har-monica aficionado Gary West, whose repertoire includes music, movies and art add to the pleasure of this quiet, laidback spot.

GULF BEACHES

Beauty and the Beast

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No partying trip to the beach should exclude Shuckers on Canal Road at the cusp of The Wharf. A fun-filled restaurant with bar is always welcoming. Featuring humorously titled drinks like The Mothershucker, moderately priced draft is also available and great food abounds. Within easy walking distance to The Wharf, Shuckers is a must for all visitors, with or without kiddies. The free but possibly most delightful aspect of dining at Shuckers is that dolphins routinely frolic in the water just a short distance from the building in easy view of staff and guests.

If you want a bit more activity beyond the beach chair here, don’t worry, there’s plenty to do. The list is long but includes bikes to rent, parasailing, Waterville’s amazing waterslides and fun-filled mini race track that only compliment plenty of kiddy rides.

Adventure Island on Highway 59 raises the concept of Putt-putt golf to a higher level and truly a much more enjoyable one. Heading down Canal Road for some fine dining and heavy shopping at The Wharf? Don’t miss a ride on the Ferris wheel. You’ll see the city–and the water–in a whole new way not soon to be forgotten.

If something a bit more earthy is of greater appeal, don’t worry while down at the beaches. More than one nature trail can be found around the area. Gulf State Park is a great spot to meander to enjoy the flora and fauna in a safe environment but a quick stop at any of the local hotels, condos, visitor centers or restaurants will likely offer a handy guide. The South Alabama Birding Trail leads you from Historic Fort Morgan to the edge of Florida and points north. yea, friends there are more birds down here than pelicans and those funny little shore birds. Again,

local visitor centers, accommodations and Gulf State Park are the spots to find the birding trail trek. trails and even a zoo. Even taking a long walk on the beach or down the highway is a favorite activity that allows you to see the sights, meet new friends and soak up the glorious atmosphere.

If shopping is among your favorite activities you won’t be dis-appointed. Souvenir shops abound offering more tangible memo-ries from time at the beach. There’s also no shortage of clothing stories meeting every price range and some specialty shops that allow you to “go retro” in style. It isn’t hard to go home with a henna tattoo either. They seem to be gleefully contagious.

There’s much to do, see and devour on the beautiful beaches that grace the edge of Alabama. Despite recent environmental concerns due to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico (ah yes, the beast of our story). the Gulf Coast beaches proprietors are remaining optimistic and focused on one goal: keeping visitors and residents happy and satisfied. Local leaders, the business community and volunteers have all banded together to aggressively tackle what lies ahead. In a place of such natural beauty that has rebounded from hurricanes, economic downturns and the unfortunate fact that jellyfish often fill the water and drive swimmers back to the pool, there is an unflagging positivity vibrating here.

Now more than ever, it means so much for visitors to return to their beloved beach and for those who have plans to visit for the first time to keep their vacation plans. Come to the Gulf Coast beaches and take a little paradise home with you. You’ll be glad you did. ■

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In the sultry summer of 1928, a party of Mobile businessmen were slid-ing through the tides of Mobile Bay, their fishing lines stretched for that elusive Big One. Surprisingly, the Big One struck. But the catch was no hard-fighting fish, it was a simple, but grand idea of organizing a competi-tive fishing tournament.

The businessmen met for several weeks following that fishing trip in the home of L.G. Adams, Sr. and eventually, with the prodding of Alabama State Game and Fisheries Commissioner I.T. Quinn, spawned the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. By this simple move, Mobile was to be popularized as a Mecca for saltwater anglers.

The first rodeo in 1929 was such a success that Quinn suggested an as-sociation be formed to perpetuate the contest on an annual basis. The first competitive fishing event in America to be dubbed a rodeo had hosted (at the time) a staggering 260 widely enthusiastic sports fishermen. The first rodeo ticket was $5 and covered sleeping quarters and special prizes. Meals were a la carte seafood delicacies. Also, because a fast news service was needed to transmit news of daily catches to town, carrier pi-geons were pressed into service.

In earlier years Fort Gaines Pier headquartered the Rodeo. A boat ride was the only transportation to the island. Rodeo brochures boasted, “There’s a fish for everybody at the rodeo and they bit as a matter of civic pride.” Chief instigator Adams, the rodeo’s first president, served for five years, riding herd on entrants from not only Alabama but eleven other states and the District of Columbia. Many Mobilians credit Adams, hearty, zesty leadership with the undeniable prosperity of the rodeo during those formative years. Nineteen years later, in 1948, the Mobile Junior Chamber of Commerce, and subsequently the Mobile Jaycees, assumed leadership of a rodeo which had grown too grand to be staged every year by interested individuals alone.

The Rodeo now attracts over 100,000 spectators per year to its current Dauphin Island site. It also attracts over 3,200 fishermen each year and in-volves a host of civic-minded Jaycees and many volunteers who work tire-lessly to advance the art and spirit of Sport Fishing in Alabama.

This year the rodeo once again is scheduled to kick-off with the Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament, on July 10. This event, open to all children 15 years old or younger, is designed to encourage participation of young people in sport fishing and to teach and encourage good sportsmanship. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo festivities continue with the Liars Contest on July 15 and the fishing competition taking place from the July 16th to the 18th.

Of course...the 800 lb whale in the harbor is the status of the oil spill. As we go to press, the Jaycees have announced their intention to hold the Rodeo as planned. Adjustments will be made based on conditions at the time and – under a worst case scenario – the event could be pushed back until September. For more information visit www.adsfr.com or call the Mobile Jaycees at 251-471-0025.

78TH ANNUAL

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo

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BAUMHOWER’S WINGS RESTAURANT Midtown Mobile, Eastern Shore. Always fresh, always friendly, always fun! Two locations: 6880 US Hwy. 90, Daphne, AL 36526, 251-625-4695; and 3673 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36608. Call 251-344-2131 or visit www.baumhowers.com.

BIG DADDY’S GRILLEastern Shore. Casual, laid-back, 16542 Ferry Road, Fairhope, AL, 251-990-5555

BIMINI BOB’S Eastern Shore. A taste of the Caribbean with island-style hospitality! Open M–Th 11a.m.–10p.m.; F–Su 11a.m.–11 p.m. Located at 29249 US Hwy. 98, Daphne, AL 36526. Call 251-621-1086 or visit www.biminibobs.com.

CAFÉ 615 Downtown Mobile. Casual Fine Dining in Downtown. Mobile’s favorite Sunday Brunch. Located at 615 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL. Call251- 432-8434 or visit www.cafe615mobile.com.

CALLAGHAN’S IRISH SOCIAL CLUB Midtown Mobile. Mobile’s oldest and friendliest Pub. schedule. On the corner of Marine and Charleston Sts. in the historic Oakleigh Garden District. Call 251-433-9374 or visit online at www.callaghansirishsocialclub.com.

CARPE DIEMSpring Hill. 4072 Old Shell Road, Open Mon-Sat 6am -10pm; Sun 7am-10pm. 251-304-0448. Springhillcoffeeroasters.com

ED’S SEAFOOD SHEDEastern Shore, Casual Seafood on the Causeway, 3382 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort AL, 251-625-1947

EL RANCHO MEXICAN RESTAURANT Eastern Shore. Offering daily menu and drink specials. 28960 US Hwy 98, Daphne, AL 36526. Call 251-626-2623.

THE FAIRHOPE INN AND RESTAURANTEastern Shore, Fine Dining in Downtown Fairhope, 63 South Church Street, 251-928-6226

FELIX’S FISH CAMP GRILLEastern Shore, Great Food, Legendary Service, 1530 Battleship Parkway,, Spanish Fort, AL, 251-626-6710

Entertainment & Dining Guidem a g a z i n e

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JESSE’S RESTAURANTGulf Beaches, A dining oasis, 14770 Oak Street, Magnolia Springs AL, 251-965-3827

LULU’S AT HOMEPORT MARINAGulf Beaches, The Place to be at the Beach, 200 East 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL, 251-967-5858

MATEER’S ON CHURCH STREETEastern Shore, Inviting Eclectic Menu, 14 North Church Street, Fairhope AL, 251-928-1714

MCSHARRY’S IRISH PUBEastern Shore, 101 N. Bancroft Street, Fairhope AL, 251-990-5100

MELLOW MUSHROOM Midtown, West Mobile. Specializing in Pizza and Beer since 1974. Live music on the weekend.

Two locations: 2032 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36606, 251-471-4700; 5660 Old Shell Rd., 251-380- 1500. www.mellowmushroom.com.

MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ Eastern Shore, Gulf Beaches. “Comin’ in HOT!” Two locations: 6423 Bayfront Park Dr., Daphne, AL, Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 251-621-RIBS; and 25603 Perdido Bch Blvd., Orange Beach, AL, Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 251-981-RIBS.

NO JAMobile, Fine Mediter-Asian cuisine, 6 N. Jackson Street, Mobile AL, 251-433-0377

PANINI PETE’SEastern Shore, Best in the Bay, 42 1/2 S. Section Street, Fairhope AL, 251-929-0122

ORIGINAL OYSTER HOUSE Eastern Shore, Foley/ Gulf Beaches. Family. Fun. Tradition. Since 1983. Two locations: 3733 Battleship Pkwy., Spanish Fort, AL 36527, 251-626-2188; and 701 Hwy. 59 S., Gulf Shores, AL 36542, 251- 948-2445. Visit www.originaloysterhouse.com.

SERDA’S COFFEE Downtown Mobile. Mobile’s Best Coffee Shop!–Nappie Awards 2009. 3 South Royal St., Mobile, AL. 251-415-3000, www.serdascoffee.com.

THE TEA ROOM @ HOLIDAY PLACE Spring Hill. British tradition with a Southern Accent. Lunch Tues.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dinner Thurs.-Sat. 5-9 p.m. 4513 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36608. Call 251-343-4669 or visit www.thetearoom.net.

Entertainment & Dining Guide

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Entertainment & Dining Guide

TRUE RESTAURANT Spring Hill. Mobile Fine Dining. Modern French and Italian with Southern influences. 9 Du Rhu Dr., Ste. 201, Mobile, AL. 36608. Call 251-344- 3334 or visit www.truedine.com.

THE BLIND MULE RESTAURANT Downtown Mobile. Made from scratch dishes, live music and local artists. 57 N Claiborne St., Mobile, AL 36602. Call 251-694-6853 or visit online at www.myspace.com/theblindmule.

THE BULL CANTINA & GRILL Downtown Mobile. Southwestern style cuisine on historic Dauphin Street. Open for dinner 7 days a week! 609 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36602. Call 251-378-5091. www.thebullrestaurant.com.

SAN MIGUEL HACIENDA/AZTECAS West Mobile. Voted #1 Mexican Food Restaurant. Four Locations: 5805 Hwy. 90, Theodore, AL 36582, 251-653-9163; 880 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile, AL 36695, 251-633-6122; 4833 Amoco Dr., Moss Point, MS 39563; and 5452 Hwy. 90 West, Mobile, AL 36619, 251-661-5509.

THE WASH HOUSE Eastern Shore. Fine Southern Coastal Cuisine. 17111 Scenic Hwy. 98, Point Clear, AL 36564. For more information, call 251-928-4838 or visit www.washhouserestaurant.com.

WINTZELL’S OYSTER HOUSEMobile, Eastern Shore, Gulf Beaches, Over 40 years and still shuckin’, 605 Dauphin Street, Mobile, Al, 251-432-4605. 6700 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL, 251-341-1111. 805 South Mobile Street, Fairhope, AL, 251-929-2322., I-65 at Exit 13, Saraland, AL, 251-442-3335. 30500 State Highway, Spanish Fort AL, 251-626-5714

ZEA ROTISSERIE & GRILLWest Mobile. 4671 Airport Blvd # A, Mobile, AL. Get Directions: 251-344-7414

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M2BTV

Discover the Sound of Style A new voice and video for the arts has arrived in Mobile asking the ques-tion: “RU M2B?” Debuting on June 23, M2BTV airs on NBC 15, WPMI immediately following Saturday Night Live. The program’s goal is to help everyone listen a little closer, see a little clearer, and above all, experi-ence A LOT more.

Each week, M2BTV will introduce the viewer to inspiring stories of chal-lenge–and the joy found in it. From a Katrina survivor that overcame all odds to become one of Europe’s hottest performers, to local clubs trying to give an honest musician a shot at the big time. The first month of pro-gramming alternates between musician profiles and discussions with those that support local artists in different ways. Musicians featured in-clude Jimmy Lee, Dennis Nelson, Kim Carson and Adam Taylor. Two of the venues showcased are Arts Alive, the City’s Spring Community Arts Festival and The Blind Mule Saloon, ground zero for many of the avant-garde, underground artists in the Mobile Bay area.

So how do you know if you’re M2BTV material? According to their web-site, www.m2btv.com: “To be M2B you have 2B...U. 2B 1 of a kind. 2B smarter. 2B aware and cognizant at all times. 2B reveling in the challenge not the accomplishment. 2B in awe of all that is. 2B a lover of music and the effort to make it great. 2B M2B OR NOT 2B–that is the question.”

DOWNTOWN MOBILEALABAMA MUSIC BOX455 Dauphin St., 251-441-8934

BLIND MULE57 N. Claiborne, 694-6853

FATHOMSRiverview Hotel, 64 S. Water St., 251-438-4000

THE GARAGE9 S. Washington Ave., 433-2223

GRAND CENTRAL256 Dauphin St., 432-6999

OK BICYCLE SHOP/LIQUID661 Dauphin St., 432-0109

SERDA’S COFFEE3 S. Royal St., 251-415-3000

SKYVIEW LOUNGE301 Government St., 17th Floor

SOUL KITCHEN219 Dauphin St., 433-5958

VEET’S66 S. Royal St. 694-3090

MIDTOWN/WEST MOBILEBANANA DOCKS CAFÉ36 Hillcrest Rd., 342-2775

BOJANGLES260 Azalea Rd., 344-1411

BUTCH CASSIDY’S CAFÉ60 N. Florida St., 450-0690

CANNON GRILL1850 Airport Blvd., 251-476-6777

CROOKED MARTINI7639 Cottage Hill Rd. #C, 633-5555

SILVERHORSE PUB151 S. Florida St., 478-7030

T.P. CROCKMIER’S170 S. Florida St., 476-1890

EASTERN SHOREBLUE GILL RESTAURANT3775 Battleship Pkwy., 625-1998

ED’S SEAFOOD SHED3382 Battleship Pkwy., 625-1947

FELIX’S FISH CAMP1420 Battleship Pkwy., 626-6710, 621-0234

GUY’S GUMBO SHACK212 1/2 Fairhope Ave., 928-4100

MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ6423 Bayfront Park Drive, Daphne, 625-7427

THE PUB311 Fairhope Ave., 928-2032, 604-8362

TRADER’S4015 Battleship Pkwy., 626-5630

GULF BEACHESFLORA-BAMA17401 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola, 850-492-0611

LIVE BAIT24281 Perdido Beach Blvd., 974-1612

LULU’S AT HOMEPORT MARINA200 E. 25th Ave., 251-967-LULU

PINK PONY PUB137 East Gulf Place, Gulf Shores, 974-6371

PIRATE’S COVE6600 County Rd. 95, Elberta, 251-987-1224

THE RIVER SHACK6120 Marina Dr. S. (under Dog River bridge), 443-7318

Live Music VenuesEntertainment & Dining Guide

Jimmy Lee

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36 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

DOWNTOWN ANTIQUES Eastern Shore. A great mix of furniture, linens and collectables. Located at 31 South Section St., Fairhope, AL 36532. Call 251-928-5200.

GULF COAST EXPLOREUM SCIENCE CENTER Downtown Mobile. Bringing the world of science to the Gulf Coast. Dinosaurs have invaded Downtown! Open Weekdays 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun.12-5 p.m. Located at 65 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602. Call 251-208-6873 or visit www.exploreum.com.

KNOT JUST BEADS Midtown Mobile. Mobile’s only full service bead store! Open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Located at 205-A South Florida St. Mobile, Al 36606. Call 251-473-8650.

LUKE EDWARD Eastern Shore. Professional decorating and design, rugs, furniture, accessories, collectables and fine art. Located at 323 De La Mare Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532. Call 251-990-3226 or visit www.lukeedward.com.

TOOMEY’S MARDI GRAS Downtown, Midtown Mobile, Eastern Shore. Your Mardi Gras starts here! Mobile Carnival Museum Gift Shoppe. Three locations: 355 Government St., Downtown, 251-431-7666; 25297 US Hwy. 98, Daphne; and 755-A McRae Ave., Mobile, AL 36606, 251-450-5077 or 1-800-450-5077. Shop online at www.toomeys-mardigras.com.

MARDI GRAS AND MORE Downtown Mobile. Two blocks west of the Cathedral. Large selection of Mardi Gras, seasonal items and souvenirs. 457 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36602. 251-432-0537.

METAL BENDERS GALLERY Eastern Shore. A Jewelry Designer’s Gallery. Located at 314 De La Mare, Fairhope, AL 36532. For more information, call 251-928-5858 or visit www.metalbendersgallery.com.

PUNTA CLARA KITCHEN Eastern Shore. Good things to eat from our kitchen. Visit or shop online. Located at 17111 Scenic Hwy. 98, Point Clear, AL 36564. Call 251- 928-8477 or visit www.puntaclara.com.

HOLIDAY INC. @ HOLIDAY PLACE Spring Hill. Contemporary ladies and children’s clothing. Located at 4513 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36608. 251-342-4911 or visit www.shoptheholiday.com.

THE PAPER WASPDowntown Mobile. Works on/of paper, book arts, custom framing. Monthly exhibitions featuring regional and local artists. 306 Dauphin St. 251-285-9478. Mon-Fri, 11-4; Sat-Sun, 11-2

ROBERTSON GALLERY Downtown Mobile. A new contemporary gallery in the heart of the Downtown Arts District. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Located at 450 Dauphin St. Call 251-433-1311 or visit www.robertsongallerymobile.com.

WINDMILL MARKET Eastern Shore. Local, Seasonal, Sustainable. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun, 12-5 p.m. and for special events. Located at the corner of Equality Ave. and Bancroft St. Call 251-517-5444 or visit www.windmillmarket.org.

SERVICES DC SOLUTIONS Downtown Mobile. Investment opportunities in retail, residential and mixed-use projects. Located at 305 North Conception St., Mobile. Call 251-694-0457 or visit online at www.dcsolutionsllc.com.

DOWNTOWN MOBILE ALLIANCE Downtown Mobile. Supports the development of downtown Mobile through marketing, advocacy and the management of the BID services. 251-434-8498. BID Hotline: 251-327-SAFE (7233). Visit www.downtownmobile.org.

EASTERN SHORE CHAMBER Eastern Shore. Serving the Eastern Shore communities of Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, Point Clear, Malbis, Montrose, Blakeley, Belforest, Barnwell. Call 251-621-8222, Facebook at “Eastern Shore Remembered” or visit online at www.eschamber.com.

WELLBORNIDEASDowntown Mobile. Web design; social media; PR, 356 Dauphin Street. 251-281-2005; wellbornideas.com.

Shopping Guide

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MOBILEVILLAGE OF SPRING HILLMobile. Old Shell Rd. west of I-65 to University Blvd. www.thevillageofspringhill.com

ASHLAND PLACEMobile. Old Shell Road between Upham and Florida Streets.

BEL AIR MALLMobile. Airport Blvd at I-65.

SPRINGDALE MALL Mobile. Airport Blvd at I-65

LEGACY VILLAGEMobile. Dauphin Street at I-65.

EASTERN SHORE/GULF BEACHESJUBILEE MALLEastern Shore. Hwy 98 at I-10.

EASTERN SHORE CENTER Spanish Fort. I-10 Exit 38.

DOWNTOWN FAIRHOPE. Eastern Shore. www.fairhopemerchants.com

TANGER OUTLET MALL Gulf Beaches. 2601 McKenzie St. Foley

Shopping Districts& Centers

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38 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

ALABAMA GULF COAST ZOO Gulf Beaches, 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 251-968-57311

BELLINGRATH GARDENS Mobile. Flowering Gardens on the River. Open Daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m.12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd. Theodore, AL 251-972-2217

DAUPHIN ISLAND SEA LAB ESTUARIUMGulf Beaches 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 251-861-7500

EASTERN SHORE ART CENTEREastern Shore. Five Exhibit Galleries. Open Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. til 2 p.m. 401 Oak St., Fairhope, AL 36532. www.esartcenter.com. 251-928-2228.

GULF COAST EXPLOREUM SCIENCE CENTERDowntown Mobile. Bringing the world of science to the Gulf Coast. Dinosaurs have invaded Downtown! Open Weekdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun.12-5 p.m. 65 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602. www.exploreum.com. 251-208-6873

HANK AARON CHILDHOOD HOME & MUSEUM Mobile, 755 Bolling Bros. Blvd, Mobile, AL 251-479-2327

LODA ARTWALKDowntown Mobile. Enjoy the sites & sounds that only Mobile can offer. Every 2nd Friday of the month, 6-9 p.m. Maps available at Mobile Arts Council; Cathedral Square. www.ncsmobile.org, 251-208-7443.

MOBILE CARNIVAL MUSEUM Downtown Mobile. Highlighting the history of Mardi Gras in its true birth-place. Open Mon., Wed., Fri. & Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 251-432-3324 or visit www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com.

MOBILE MUSEUM OF ARTMobile The largest Fine Arts Museum on the central Gulf Coast. 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, Al 251-208-5200

MOBILE OPERA Downtown Mobile. Love and Lust. 257 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36602. Call 251-432-6772 or visit www.mobileopera.org.

MOBILE SYMPHONY Downtown Mobile. Feel the music, hear the passion, share the joy. 257 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36602. 251-432-2010. www.mobilesymphony.org.

Attractions

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MUSEUM OF MOBILE Downtown Mobile. History, Culture, Heritage, Diversity. Open Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun.1-5 p.m. Located at 111 S. Royal St., Mobile, AL St., 36602. Call 251-208-7569 or visit online at www.museumofmobile.com.

SPACE 301Downtown Mobile. Contemporary Arts Museum and artists’ workspace. 301 Conti Street. 251-298-5700, www.space301.org.

USS ALABAMA BATTLESHIP MEMORIAL Eastern Shore. From World War II to Iraqi Freedom, at one of America’s finest military parks. Open daily except Christmas Day. Located at 2703 Battleship Pkwy., Mobile, AL 36602. Call 251-433-2703 or visit online at www.ussalabama.com.

Attractions

Every Wednesday through July 28, enjoy a spe-cial program about Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local history and nature. Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath is the perfect place to bring a friend and spend time among 65 acres of blooms!

June 16 - Lost Gardens of Mobile by Tom McGehee. (10:30–11:30 am) A look at some of Mobile’s spectacular gardens lost to progress over the years. Included is the Bellingrath’s Azalea Garden formerly at 60 South Ann Street–which was the inspiration for Mobile’s Azalea Trail. June 23 - Cascade Mums with Chuck Owens (10:30–11:30 am) By popular demand; we will share our secrets for creating this beautiful floral display. We will share plants with those that are interested in trying to grow their own cascading Mum. July 7 - Our annual Kid’s Kruise (11:00 am–1:00 pm) will be extra special with Mobile’s Baykeeper as our special tour guide. Dauphin Island Sea Lab will be here with their Touch Table, too! Bring the kids, order your bag lunch and enjoy a fun filled cruise on the Fowl River. Reservations Required. Member Price: $16 for adults; $ 11 kids 5-12 and $6 kids under 5. Non-Member Price: $27- adults; $17.50 kids 5-12 and $6 kids under 5.

July 14 - Growing Ginger Lilies in the Deep South (10:30 – 11:30 am) with Virginia Boehme, Owner of Fairie Tale Orchids.

Virginia will show us how to grow beautiful Ginger Lilies along the Gulf Coast. She will discuss a number of varieties and will have

many for sale, too!

July 21 - ICE CREAM MONTH CELEBRA-TION with Blue Bell Ice Cream & Bellingrath Gardens and Home. (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

July is Ice Cream Month! Join us for a morning of games, activities and ICE CREAM!

July 28 - The Bellingrath Museum Home Celebrates 75 Years with Tom McGehee. (10:30 – 11:30 am) A closer look at the Home’s interior and exterior architectural style. How

does a Mediterranean inspired house relate to an interior strongly influenced by 18th century England? Reservations requested. Garden

and Home admission will be discounted to $15 for non-members for the program. General members will be admitted free.

Gardens Admission ($11.00 for adults & $ 6.00

for children 5-12) is charged for non-members at-

tending programs unless otherwise listed. There

are additional charges to tour the Home and/or

to take the River Cruise. Call 251.973.2217 X 110

for reservations.

BELLINGRATH GARDENS

Wonderful Wednesdays

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40 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

EventsArt Walks and MoreFairhope First Friday ArtwalkJuly 2, Fairhope Exhibit openings with guest artists, refreshments and live entertainment at Analece and Bayside Beads, Antiques and Fine Art; Christine Linson Gallery; Eastern Shore Art Center; Fairhope Artists; Fairhope Antiquery; the Fairhope Connection; Lyons Share Gallery; Metal Benders; Morning Light; Nall Studio; Page and Palette; and Patina 6 – 8 pm. Downtown Fairhope. Contact: 251-928-2228, www.easternshoreartcenter.com

LODA ArtwalkJuly 9, Downtown Mobile. Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops the second Friday of each month as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicous foods and hear the sounds of local musicians. 6–9 PM. Cathedral Square Arts District (Lower Dauphin St). 251-208-7443. www.ncsmobile.org

LODA 4th Saturday FABJune 26, July 24, Mobile. Music from JADA Entertainment; open house at Blue Velvet Gallery, Cathedral Square Gallery, Robertson Gallery and more; participation of The Bull, Cafe 615, Command-M, The Garage, Liquid, Mardi Gras and More, O.K. Bicycle Shop, Taqueria and Wintzell’s Oyster House. Look for “FAB” (Food, Art, Beverage) flags. 4–8 PM. Dauphin St (Downtown, between Broad and Hamilton Sts). Contact: 251-694-0278, [email protected]

Mobile Sketchcrawl IVJul 31, Mobile Artists (17 and older) of all skill levels are invited to join sketchers all over the world today, as we record what we see in our communities, then share our drawings on the internet. 10 am–4 pm. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center (65 Government St) Free. Contact: 251-432-9796 www.mobilesketchcrawl.com

Community, Cultural,Festivals and FunSaturday Walking ToursThrough June, Fairhope. The Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel continues its efforts to give both visitors and residents a “hometown experience” by promoting Saturday Walking Tours in June in select cities throughout Alabama. The City of Fairhope invites you to join Donnie Barrett, Fairhope Museum of History Director, at the Colony Cemetery (Section and Oak Streets) for a Saturday stroll through downtown.For information and tour times call 251-928-1018.

Gulf Coast Balloon FestivalJune 18-20, Foley. Take to the air and have some FUN when 45 brightly colored hot air balloons arise above this Baldwin County festival. Visitors may experience a rise of magnificent balloons in the air around 6 a.m., or whenever the sun decides to ascend on Saturday and Sunday mornings and between 7 and 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. In addition to the balloons, the festival

schedule includes: great music throughout the weekend; 60 foot kites will be flying high and performing stunts on both days; an Arts and Crafts village, a Children’s Village and the Disc-Connected K9’s World Famous Frisbee Dogs. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

America’s Junior Miss National Finals June 22-26, Mobile. The 50 state Junior Misses arrive in Mobile in early June and spend two weeks rehearsing, making public appearances, participating in community service activities, making new friends and competing for college scholarships. All performances are held at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. For more information call 251-438-3621 or visit www.ajm.org.

Movies at the Market3rd Thursdays, Fairhope. Starry Night Theater presents screenings of newly released, award winning independent films. Tickets: $10–includes a complimentary popcorn. Beer, wine and food available from Moe’s Bar B Que. The Windmill Market. For Information call 251-709-0188.

Reptile PlanetGulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, opening July 5–October 24, Mobile. The Exploreum is featuring an amazing traveling exhibit showcasing live reptiles from 20 different countries, including Burmese pythons, snake-necked turtles, veiled chameleons and American alligators. Reptile Planet is an interactive zoological exhibition that brings visitors eye to

40 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

continued on page 42

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42 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 201042 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

Events, cont.eye with exotic, living reptiles from around the world. Deadly snakes, colorful lizards, bizarre turtles, alligators and crocodiles are exhibited in naturalistic habitats.

Blue Angels Air ShowJuly 10, Pensacola Beach Just a short drive from the Alabama Coast, the legendary Blue Angels, the world’s best naval aviators present their annual air show–including aerobatic manueuvers and choreographic moves among the planes. For information, please visit: www.blueangels.navy.mil/index.htm.

Beauty and Bravery Mint Julep PartyJuly 15, Mobile. In 1877, future president James Garfield tasted his first Mint Julep on the Veranda of Oakleigh Mansion. He later noted in his journal that, “the beauty and bravery of the city was evident.” Sounds like a reason for a party! Historic Mobile Preservation Society fundraiser at Oakleigh. $20. For more info call 432-6161 or www.historicmobile.org

Farmers’ MarketsThroughout the region, Summertime brings fresh produce and markets within easy reach. In Mobile, the MARKET ON THE SQUARE happens each Saturday from 7:30 to 11:00am in Cathedral Square with locally grown produce, seafood, beef, honeys, breads, pastas, cheeses, plants, handcrafted goods for kitchen and home; arts and crafts; live music; games and other activities. A similar MARKET IN THE PARK is presented on the grounds of the Museum of Art in the Spring Hill neighborhood on Thursday afternoons from 4–7pm. 251-208-1443 www.ncsmobile.org

On Fridays, the City of Foley sponsors FARMERS’ MARKET, MUSIC, AND MOVIE starting at 4 pm. It takes place at Heritage Park in downtown Foley with live music at 6 followed by a movie on the big screen at dusk. 251-943-1200.

Every Thursday thru Sunday, find the best the area has to offer at THE WINDMILL MARKET in Downtown Fairhope. 9am–2pm Th/Fri; 9am–4pm Sat and noon–4pm Sun. 251-517-5444, www.windmillmarket.org.

MusicConcert for a Cause Spanish Fort Support the March of Dimes at the Bluegill Restaurant on the Causeway June 24. Tickets are $10. Great local musicians including: Hank Becker, Four Flat Tires, Jon Miller Band, Lisa Zanghi, The Mailman & The Special Delivery Band, Daymoon Sky, Nyabinghi Djehutti and Sergio Davis. 251-438-1360

Jazz JambalayaJune 28, July 26. Mobile MOJO (Mystic Order of the Jazz Obsessed) presents a monthly salute to jazz greats. June 28: THE GREAT GUITARISTS OF BLUE NOTE: GRANT GREEN AND KENNY BURRELL Jim Marshall Quartet feat. Charlie Walker; July 26: PEGGY LEE Jim Armstrong feat. Angie Powers. 6:30 pm. Gulf City Lodge (601 State St) Members/$7; nonmembers/$10 (includes jambalaya dinner) 251-459-2298/ [email protected]

Steve Miller Band and Peter Frampton Two legendary rockers will perform July 31 at the Amphitheater at The Wharf at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $69.50, $59.50, and $25.00. For information call 251-434-0033.

Sports and OutdoorsThe Mobile BayBearsFun for the whole family! Come cheer on the BayBears, a class AA affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks major league team. Family fun at every game. CURRENT HOMESTAND:Tennessee Smokies, June 16-20; Montgomery Biscuits, June 28-July 3; Jacksonville Suns, July 14-16: Call 251-479-BEAR(2327) for tickets or more information or visit www. mobilebaybears.com

78th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, July 16-18, Dauphin IslandThe nation’s largest salt-water fishing rodeo with more than 3000 fishermen competing for prizes, including large jackpots, boats and other items. The festivities of the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo kick-off with the Liars Contest held on July 15, then the true fishing action begins on July 16 through July 18. The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament will be held on July 10. For more information, please visit their website or call 251-471-0025. www.adsfr.com

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ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010 43

It’s summertime and the “living might be easy” but it’s also HOT down here. Thank goodness the Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival, Inc. (GCEH) is around for its 12th year of presenting some world-class jazz to cool us down. Founded in the belief that ‘ethnic’ means everybody and ‘heritage’ is not some fixed point in the past, the Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival of 2010 seeks to “present jazz through a declaration of its evolution. Jazz is and is always becoming.”

At every turn, the GCEH Jazz Festival provides a vibrant mix of entertainment and education. The Festival opens on Thursday August 5th with An Evening of Poetry at the Museum of Mobile (111 South Royal Street). Following that, the art of Jazz is celebrated with three distinct events:

Friday, it’s a daylong workshop (also at the Museum of Mobile) designed to intro-duce music lovers of any age to rudimentary jazz in a casual atmosphere and by using a variety of formats. Everyone is invited to participate. You need not have any musical background, be proficient on any musical instrument or even be able to read music in order to participate in the workshop. Registration for the free workshop must be made in advance.

On Saturday, the organizers present a day of Jazz under the shade trees in Bienville Square in downtown Mobile. The admission free festival features jazz artists with roots in Mobile, but who have performed with everyone from Count Basie to the James Brown Band. The Jazz in the Square concert starts at 4:30pm and you’re encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy some of the best jazz in the Southeast. Featured performers this year are: local favorites the Bay City Brass Band and the gyspy jazz influenced Roman Street; Bradley Leighton bringing a unique and powerful sound to flute and conga player “Doc” Handy.

The Festival Weekend closes out on Sunday with a traditional “jazz jam” session at Club 351 (351 Water Street) featuring local and fes-tival musicians. For complete information on the Festival go to www.gcehjazzfest.com or call 251-432-8343.

HOT NIGHTS

Cool Jazz

Top photo courtesy b.t. seipp photography.

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44 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

Daphne & Spanish Fort

Downtown Fairhope

Gulf Shores &Orange Beach

DowntownMobile

MidtownSpring HillWest Mobile

Dauphin Island

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ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010 45

Daphne & Spanish Fort

Downtown Fairhope

Gulf Shores &Orange Beach

m a g a z i n em a g a z i n e

We’re happy to help with directions anywhere along the Alabama Coast. Text us at 251-623-1751.

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46 ALABAMA COAST SUMMER 2010

Bellingrath Gardens & Home ........... 21

Bimini Bob’s ...................................... 37

The Blind Mule Saloon .................... 34

The Bull Cantina & Grill ................... 15

The Crooked Martini ........................ 32

Café 615 ............................................. 5

Callaghan’s Irish Social Club ............ 15

Carnival Museum ............................. 10

Carpe Diem Coffee Shop ................. 19

Crescent Theater ................................ 5

Crescent Theater - Exit .................... 41

Dahlia’s Electric Piano Hall .............. 33

dee c. design .................................... 39

Downtown Mobile Alliance ............... 5

Eastern Shore Art Center ................. 27

Eastern Shore Chamber ................... 27

Eastern Shore Connection ............... 37

LoDa Art Spaces .............................. 16

Luke Edward Company ..................... 20

Market on the Square/NCS ............... 6

Mellow Mushroom .......................... 32

Metal Benders ................................... 2

Moe’s Original BBQ .......................... 32

The Museum of Mobile ................... 10

Oakleigh Historic Complex ............... 38

Original Oyster House ...................... 25

Ozio Pizzeria ....................................... 7

Serda’s Coffee Company .................. 10

Skip Baumhower Photography ......... 20

Skyview Lounge ............................... 34

Space 301 ........................................ 38

Spring Hill Coffee Roasters ............. 36

Three Georges Candy ....................... 15

TimberCreek Golf Club ..................... 25

Toomey’s Mardi Gras ....................... 31

True Restaurant ................................ 20

USS Alabama Memorial Park .......... 31

wellborn ideas ................................. 16

Windmill Market ................................ 7

AdvertiserDirectory

m a g a z i n em a g a z i n e

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If you’d like to help with the oil clean-up effort, here’s how: Two local organizations, Mobile Baykeeper and Alabama Coastal Foundation, are leading the efforts–working with local governments, the U.S. Coast Guard and BP–to keep all of us apprised of developments and to provide safe and effective volunteer opportunities for those wanting to help. Contact informa-tion is listed below. Additionally, please review the following FAQs and share with your family:

How can I help? There are a number of things that everyone should do. Among them–stay informed. Double check any information that you hear from the media. Contact your government officials to make sure they are aware of your concerns about this crisis.

Any volunteer who may come into contact with oil must undergo a BP-sanctioned HAZWOPER (Hazardous

Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard) training and/or wildlife training. This is for your safety and the welfare of wildlife. BP Volunteer Hotline: 1-866-448-5816.

Be cautious of any training offered that requires payment and/or has not been approved by BP or government officials. While organizers may mean well, there is no guarantee that you will be able to assist in clean-up efforts.

Do not put yourself in danger! Oil is a hazardous material that is potentially toxic. Prolonged exposure can have adverse health effects, especially in children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems.

How can I assist with wildlife rescue operations? Oiled wildlife should only be handled by trained professionals. Animals may be stressed and scared, and more likely to be in attack mode. To re-port oiled wildlife, call 1-866-557-1401.

I have a boat. How can I help? Do not take your boats into any affected areas as the oil will adhere to your vessel and pollute other areas. Also, the wake from your boat will displace protective boom, allowing oil to get through.

What if I see oil on the shoreline? To report oil on shoreline: Call 1-866-448-5816.

What if I smell oil? EPA has air quality monitors in place and will alert public health officials if high levels of oil are detected. If you smell oil in the air, please call: 1-800-424-8802

The effort to combat this crisis will take an enormous amount of time, energy and money. Your donations in support of this battle are greatly appreciated and can be made online or by mail.

Alabama Coastal FoundationRe: Oil ReleaseP.O. Box 1073Mobile, AL 36602

Mobile BaykeeperOil Release

300 Dauphin Street, Suite 200Mobile, AL 36602

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Page 48: Alabama Gulf Coast Magazine Summer 2010 Issue

Art, Sports, Food, Music, Moon Pies...

m a g a z i n em a g a z i n e

You Name it, We Celebrate it.

(yes, Moon Pies)

Come See Us Again!

George Washington CarverWhat Will You Discover?

A Link to the Links...The Coast’s Best Golf

May We Recommend...Our Favorite Places to Dine, Shop & Explore

July 4thCelebrate Family,Friends & Freedom SUMMER 2010

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