DIME Entertainment | August 2016 | The Animal Issue

DIME ENTERTAINMENT

August 2016 | Vol. 2 • No. 8

THE ANIMAL ISSUE

AUGUST 2016 | VOL. 2 • NO. 8

The University

of Mississippi Museum and

Historic Houses MUSEUM.OLEMISS.EDU 6 6 2 . 9 1 5 . 7 0 7 3

UNIVERSITY AVE. & 5TH ST., OXFORD, MS Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

ONE LOVE FOR HUB CITY

WILL AT 3509 HARDY ST MANAGING PARTNER, FRY COOK & CASHIER We are committed to being an active community partner, and invested over $65,000 in this community last year.

Visit CanesAndCommunity.com to learn how we can help.

18

PARLOR MARKET

THIS ISSUE

AUGUST 2016 | Vol. 2

No. 8

DIMEENTERTAINMENT.COM BITE Dog-friendly restaurants \\ 15 The Hog \\ 16

FEATURES Zooing in the South \\ 36 Bat facts \\ 42 What’s your beast? \\ 46 Laurel: artist’s mecca \\ 62

BEAT Pierce the Veil \\ 22 The DLX \\ 26 Ocean Springs Live \\ 54

NEON Hangout Music Fest \\ 48 Weezer & Panic! At The Disco \\ 52

CANVAS Ricardo Moody \\ 30 Modern Faces of MS \\ 34

POUR Beer of the month \\ 12 Spicy margaritas \\ 14

72 20 BLUE DELTA JEAN CO.

AUTHOR JOSH STRICKLIN

SEAMS Backpacks \\ 66 History of baggy pants \\ 70 Cat eye tips \\ 76 STANDARDS Ed’s note \\ 11 Horoscopes \\ 78 Starship 420 \\ 77 STOWAWAY Fort Collins \\ 56

DIME ENTERTAINMENT

PUBLISHER Jim Cegielski EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jacqueline Lee ASSISTANT EDITOR Courtney Creel ART DIRECTOR Kassie Rowell MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES Amy Allegrezza Sarah Campbell Jessica Redondo PHOTOGRAPHERS Jenn Devereaux Courtland Wells Chad Edwards ILLUSTRATORS Sean Morgan Paige Pritchard

CONTRIBUTORS Michelle Brugioni Nicole Chantreau Kyle Crockett Clint Kimberling Natalie Long Zoe McDonald Whitney Miracle Malcolm Morrow Sean Murphy Brittany Purvis Julian Rankin Justin Sawyer Meaghen Stark Aaron J. Stewart Andie Szabo Kristin Teston Valerie Wells Robyn White INTERNS Caitlin Olson Anna Samples Erin Williams

DIME Entertainment Magazine is published monthly

by Gin Creek Publishing, 318 N. Magnolia St. Laurel, MS 39440. All contents copyright 2016

by Gin Creek Publishing and all rights reserved.

Any views expressed here are not necessarily endorsed

by DIME Entertainment Magazine, its staff or advertisers. Individual copies of DIME Entertainment Magazine are free for the first three copies. For additional copies, subscriptions, address changes and back issues, write to: Dime Entertainment Magazine, 110 E. Front St., Suite 103 Hattiesburg, MS 39401, call 601.909.6092 or visit dimeentertainment.com.

For editorial inquiries, contact editor@dimeentertainment.com.

For advertising inquiries, contact ads@dimeentertainment.com.

For all other inquiries, contact asst_editor@dimeentertainment.com.

ON OUR COVER: Shawn Chambliss of The DLX shows his stripes on page 26.

Face paint by Amy Allegrezza Photo by Courtland Wells

WINTER IS COMING ... soon!

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Editor's Note What makes us human, I think, is an ability to ask questions, a consequence of our sophisticated spoken language.

- Jane Goodall Have you ever wondered what the birds discuss each morning? Do they gossip with their tweets the way humans do?

There’s a deranged mockingbird that lives somewhere near my bedroom window, and she’s been mimicking everything from the zoo animals nearby to the screeches of bad brakes as they pass. I’ve learned from Google that she’s trying to attract a summer lover, and apparently nothing is working. My mockingbird’s love life is a sad and public bust.

Or maybe she’s crooning about how good it feels to be alone, that she’s i-n-d-e-p-e-n-d-e-n-t. And probably, she isn’t a she at all. The thing about animals is, that they’re us. Or they are the loving emotions we project onto them. We interpret their actions through a human frame, and maybe we have no business doing so. Do our dogs really love us, or are they just so Stockholm-syndromed by the promise of another meal?

We prefer the former notion, and we love them back deeply, sometimes rescuing them from improbable situations. This weekend I found myself trying to gently extract a stray kitten’s head from a watering can. We’ve since renamed her Buckethead.

I can’t help but view the way others treat animals as an indication of their own worth. And sometimes, yes, I prefer my dog over people. But he thinks he’s people, and that’s certainly my fault. We’d love to meet the animals you think are people. Share them with us (#dimefurbabies), even the ones without fur, so we can coo over them too.

DIME Sidekicks We traded our notes to bring you our four-legged companions. Who cares about anything when furry, cute animals are an option?

Andie Szabo, contributor George, left, and Arthur have the cutest pose faces. They were named after the Weasley brothers from Harry Potter.

Brittany Purvis, contributor Persephone, left, is voluptuous gal who loves nighttime snuggles, lasers and sitting where she doesn’t belong.

Tsuki is a sweet boy who loves laundry piles, clean or dirty. He’s a lap dog in feline form as he is commonly found curled up in any available laps and loves greeting visitors at the door of our home.

Jacqueline Lee Editor-In-Chief

Party on, Mississippi!

Cheers to select communities of Mississippi (Gulf Coast, Hattiesburg and Tupelo among them) that will benefit from the recently passed HB1223, enabling certain “leisure & recreation districts” to offer restaurant and bar patrons a “go-cup.” Congrats on the added economic benefit these towns will most certainly gain. Here’s to you!

Sarah Campbell, marketing representative Meirabel (AKA Meirabel Countess of Derwentwater) the hedgehog weighs less than a pound but wears the pants of the household while Bear the coonhound, 75 pounds, is scared of bubbles.

Courtney Creel, assistant editor Mr. Peppy enjoys chasing rabbits and making sure he never sees the bottom of his food bowl.

Amy Allegrezza, marketing representative Marcello is the OG DIME dog, greeting everyone who walks through our doors.

Jessica Redondo, marketing representative Gravy likes to take cat naps with her stuffed raccoon Randy.

Kassie Rowell, graphic designer Although she’s patiently waiting for grandchildren, Kassie has the sweetest, floppy eared granddog.

Paige Pritchard, illustrator Willow, left, and Dixie have perfected “puppy dog eyes” in case they don’t get their way.

BEER OF THE MONTH

BY SEAN MURPHY

BILOXI BEACH BLONDE

CHANDELEUR BREWING COMPANY Gulfport, MS Thursdays & Fridays: 4-7 pm, Saturdays: 1-4 pm

CROOKED LETTER BREWING COMPANY Ocean Springs, MS Saturdays: 1-3 pm

LAZY MAGNOLIA BREWERY Kiln, MS Thursdays & Fridays: 4-6 pm, Saturdays: 11 am-4 pm

LUCKY TOWN BREWING COMPANY Jackson, MS Fridays: 4-7 pm, Saturdays: 11-3 pm

SLOWBOAT BREWING COMPANY Laurel, MS Saturdays: 3-8 pm

SOUTHERN PROHIBITION BREWERY Hattiesburg, MS Thursdays & Fridays: 4-8 pm, Saturdays: 1-5 pm

YALOBUSHA BREWING COMPANY Water Valley, MS Fridays: 1-9 pm Saturdays: 1-9 pm

ABV: 4.1% Biloxi Brewing Company Nothing says summer like baseball and some beach blonde ale. This Kölsch, a German style of beer, from Biloxi Brewing Co. is available all over South Mississippi — and featured at Biloxi Shuckers baseball games. Smooth and easy-drinking, the hop neutral, crisp ale is a super-drinkable summer ale, and if plans continue as they have for this company, you’ll be able to taste all of Biloxi Brewing’s flavors at their physical location at 186 Bohn St. Biloxi in downtown Biloxi by the end of November. Time to hit the beach.

For weekly entertainment lineup:

THE MOST BEER IN MISSISSIPPI!

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varieties on tap

in bottles & cans

brickhausbar.com

CRAFT BEER. LIVE MUSIC. GREAT FOOD. 2206 Front St. • Meridian, MS • 601.490.5242 • brickhausbar.com

2206 Front Street • Meridian, Mississippi • 601.490.5242

BREWER OWNED HAND-CRAFTED MISSISSIPPI PROUD WWW.SLOWBOATBREWCO.COM

Spicy Watermelon

From CookieandKate.com

Bored with traditional margs?

Try our spirit cocktail — the spicy watermelon margarita.

A little sweet, a little fiery but definitely refreshing in the Southern heat.

, Keep in mind u the longer yo peño le t your jala n slices chill i e your glass, th taste. u’ll o y k c i k r e g g bi

Juice — One small seedless watermelon or half a larger melon Chili salt rims — 1 part kosher salt // 1 part chili powder // lime wedges Per Margarita: 2 oz. fresh watermelon juice 1 ½ oz. tequila (for a gluten free version, use 100% agave tequila) ¾ oz. fresh lime juice ½ oz. fresh orange juice ½ teaspoon agave nectar or simple syrup, more to taste Tiny watermelon wedge to garnish (optional)

Making watermelon juice: Scoop the watermelon flesh into a blender and blend until it’s smooth juice. If it’s too pulpy for your taste, put it through a mesh strainer and press the juice through with a big spoon. This will also catch the seeds if you don’t grab a seedless melon.

Preparing rim: On a small rimmed plate, mix equal parts kosher salt and chili powder.

Run a lime along the rim of your glass. Dip it into the mixture and roll it from side to side.

Add ice cubes and set aside.

Making margaritas: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in watermelon juice, tequila, lime juice, orange juice, agave nectar or simple syrup and top with jalapeño slice.

Secure shaker lid and shake for 30 seconds. Taste and add additional sweeteners to taste.

Strain liquid into glass. Store your extra watermelon juice in the refrigerator…

Or, you know, make a few more.

If spicy’s not your gig, just nix the jalapeño and chili powder for an equally tasty drink — minus the heat.

14 // dime entertainment

Bone Appetite!

Your dog deserves to be spoiled more than some subpar significant other. Pull up a chair on the patio for you and your furry friend at any of these restaurants around the state. Some will even bring your tagalong a bowl of water and a treat, but ask your server or a manager before taking your pooch inside.

THE BLIND TIGER, BAY ST. LOUIS What’s better than enjoying burgers, tacos, shrimp and beer at The Blind Tiger? Getting to bring your dog along for the fun.

THE SHED BBQ & BLUES JOINT, OCEAN SPRINGS Snag a seat outside and enjoy your baby back ribs and pulled pork with your pooch by your side, but don’t forget dessert.

What pup doesn’t adore banana pudding?

Fresh Mint Margargita Serves 4 // From delish.com

For a calmer, more relaxed drink, try this fresh mint concoction that requires only beginner-level cocktail experience. ½ c. chopped mint leaves ½ tsp. Kosher salt 4 c. crushed ice 1 ½ c. tequila 1 c. freshly squeezed lime juice (about 8 limes) 1 c. Triple Sec In the bottom of a large pitcher, crush together mint and salt, pressing with the back of a wooden spoon. Add ice.

Add tequila, lime juice and Triple Sec. Stir vigorously.

Enjoy!

GOVERNMENT STREET GROCERY, OCEAN SPRINGS Kick it on the patio with a drink and your dog, tail wagging to the live music.

SHAGGY’S BILOXI BEACH, BILOXI Enjoy the outdoor seating at Shaggy’s and order up a plate of fresh shrimp to share with your furry date. Oh, and don’t forget to snag a selfie in the Shaggy’s chair.

THE GRIND COFFEE & NOSH, BILOXI Take your pick of a gourmet wrap, panini or sandwich at The Grind Coffee & Nosh. Try the Roast Beef and Cheddar on ciabatta bread (hold the onions and mayo for your pup’s sake).

GLORY BOUND GYRO CO., HATTIESBURG Enjoy a tasty gyro on Glory Bound’s patio with your best bud.

You can even try your hand at a game of giant Jenga.

THE KEG & BARREL, HATTIESBURG Eat your favorite burger or pizza with your four-legged date on the Keg’s patio.

THE DEPOT, HATTIESBURG Sip your morning coffee while your pal relaxes at your feet on The Depot’s patio.

PATIO 44, HATTIESBURG Order a glass of your favorite wine and kick it with your pup on the patio at Patio 44. Grab an order of debris fries, but don’t forget to share with your furry friend.

THE PIG & PINT, JACKSON Pick your choice of craft beer and get a little messy at The Pig & Pint with whatever BBQ goodness your heart desires. Your dog won’t mind cleaning up your mess.

SNEAKY BEANS, JACKSON Grab a coffee or a beer and relax with your pup at one of Jackson’s coolest coffee shops.

VELVET CREAM, HERNANDO Although Velvet Cream may look like nothing more than a snow cone stand, their walk-up window makes it a breeze to let your dog tag along — not to mention they have a laundry list of mouthwatering burgers available for you and your slobbering pal.

YOKNAPATACO, OXFORD Catch the YoknapaTaco truck out and about in Oxford and treat yourself — and your pup — to a chicken tinga taco with chips and queso.

VOLTA TAVERNA, OXFORD Volta Taverna’s pizzas, gyros and margaritas can all be savored with your pet by your side. What a time to be alive.

JOHNNIE’S DRIVE-IN BAR-B-Q, TUPELO Johnnie’s Drive-In, famous for being one of Elvis’ hangouts, is a must-eat if you’re in Tupelo. Grab a burger for you and your furry guest and soak in the history on their patio.

PIZZA GROCERY, CORINTH Stop in for a doggy date on Pizza Grocery’s patio and try their Mighty Meat pizza.

dime entertainment // 15

PHOTO BY COURTLAND WELLS

One of the South’s

The Mahogany Bar is a one of those places that successfully transports you magically to another place the moment you enter.

Life’s breakneck pace in the rapidly growing city of Hattiesburg is quickly forgotten when one swings open the iron gate and enters an ivy-covered courtyard, invoking a comfortingly familiar, relaxed New Orleans-style vibe.

The Mahogany Bar is just one part of the New South Restaurant Group that includes four separate concept eateries sharing a single kitchen, the brainchild of Executive Chef and

16 // dime entertainment

Author Robert St. John. Rounding out New South's four-in-one are Crescent City Grill, serving southern Creole-inspired foods; Purple Parrot Cafe, the area’s premier fine dining choice; and Branch Cocktail Bar complete with foodie-forward small plates, a posh ambiance and mixologists versed in the skill of teasing tastebuds with original house craft cocktail creations.

Regulars at The Hog — an affectionate nickname given the bar by its patrons as a nod to the boar mounted above the door — know that during the week they’ll find daytime bar manager Tina

best-loved secrets Thames serving from the Grill menu and pouring lunchtime beverages from a mind-boggling selection of 45 drafts and 100+ bottles.

Afternoon customers can find daily happy hour specials. As the sun sets and evening progresses, guests can order from a late night snack & debris menu that hits the mark dead-center with variety and creativity.

The Mahogany Bar boasts the most extensive beer selection in Hattiesburg. Recently The Hog was featured by Thrillist as Mississippi’s Best Beer Bar of 2016 and, for two years running,

has made Draft Magazine’s list of America’s 100 Best Bars.

When questioned, the staff appreciate the accolades but appear to be much more focused on the daily tasks. They’ve simply and quietly elevated service and selection to an art form that rivals any establishment in the nation — this one just happens to be hidden away in South Mississippi. Southern hospitality, the new generation variety with an unapologetic edge, is alive and well in the South and is subtly on-point every day at Mahogany Bar.

Parlor Market Down Home Southern Cuisine Done Up

BY NATALIE LONG // PHOTO BY ASHLEIGH COLEMAN

When venturing down Capitol Street in the city of Jackson, one can’t help but stop and admire the historical brick buildings that align the sidewalks. Parlor Market, located at 115 West Capitol Street, has a rich history of serving Southern food to Jacksonians and many others since 1898. The store, in the past, was a grocery store called Parlor Market, and when then owner, the late Craig Noone, decided to start a restaurant in the vintage brick building in 2010, he decided to stick to its original name.

Walking in to Parlor Market makes you feel nostalgic, as if you’ve stepped back in time to when Jackson was a fairly new bustling, prosperous capital city. After the original Parlor Market closed its doors in the 1920’s, the building became many different things — a lumber company, a meat market, a leather factory, an oyster bar and even a marble company. Pieces of each company that once thrived in the now-home of Parlor Market are accentuated throughout the restaurant, with meat hooks used for the ladies to hold their purses, marbled countertops and beautiful 18 // dime entertainment

old Louisiana cypress beams preserved over the years upholding the foundation of the restaurant.

Parlor Market has been a huge success since its inception and continues to be a hit, being featured in such publications as The New York Times, Deep South Living and Southern Living, as well as regional and statewide publications. The eatery also boasts of winning many awards such as “Best New Restaurant” in Mississippi Magazine and “Best of Jackson” in the Jackson Free Press.

Recently, Parlor Market has been featured on the Food Network and the Travel Channel’s “Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern.”

Continuing the Parlor Market fine Southern cuisine experience is Katie Cochran, events coordinator, Lee Hurley, sous chef, and Matthew Kajdan, executive chef. Cochran’s experience as events coordinator at Ridgeland’s Parker House Restaurant helped hone her skills today, planning everything to private and corporate parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, birthday parties and this year’s Burger PM, an all-day event on August 27 featuring

live music and homemade burgers. Cochran also helps coordinate Dinner 34, which raises money for the Craig Noone Rock It Out Scholarship. The event, to be held on September 21, brings together all of the original line cooks from Parlor Market to prepare a seven-course meal, paired with wine or beer.

Lee Hurley, who hails from Independence, Miss., started working at Parlor Market in the summer of 2011, and has been the sous chef for a year and a half. Hurley met Noone at an event in the Delta, which led to him joining the team soon after he and his wife moved to Jackson.

“The food here at Parlor Market is an experience in itself and the ambience all comes together,” Hurley said. “I try to bring out my small town pride and work ethic with each dish I make.”

Matthew Kajdan has been the executive chef at Parlor Market for four years. Born and raised in Madison where his mother and grandmother showed him the way around the kitchen, not to mention growing up in a large European family, he developed

a passion for gourmet cooking. Food has always been a huge part of Kajdan’s life since a young age, which helped prepare him for a life in the culinary arts that began at the age of 16 years old at Bravo! Italian Restaurant in Jackson. He learned under Chefs Louis Larose and Dan Blumenthal who taught him the basics of line cooking and culinary arts. After his years at Bravo!, Matthew began working with Nick Apostle, who owned Nick’s Restaurant, where his skills were honed over the next few years.

He left Mississippi in 2006 to pursue a

position in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. Matthew worked at the historic Sagamore Hotel under great chefs, including Frank Esposito, Ken Lingle and Pastry Chef Bill Foltz.

In 2008, Matthew moved back to Mississippi and returned back to work under his former boss, Nick Apostle. With Apostle mentoring him, Matthew helped open the Mermaid Café as Executive Chef and eventually General Manager. He credits these years and Nick’s mentorship to his understanding of what it means to be a

chef and how to run a successful business without sacrificing ethics. These days, Matthew oversees daily operations at Parlor Market.

As the Executive Chef, Matthew promises to bring us a “New Southern menu,” with progressive ideas and local products in a “Farm to Table Atmosphere.”

“Our food is downtown Southern food done up,” Kajdan explained. “We want everyone to feel at home and have an experience that will make them come back again.”

DIME FAVORITES @ PARLOR MARKET General Tso’s Chicken Livers: These little goodies sound terrifying, but after you dare yourself to take the first bite, they will be devoured by your table in minutes. Better go ahead and order two batches.

Front Porch Cocktail: This Southern twist on a John Daly is perfectly refreshing and a great way start any evening. Features Cathead vodka in a housemade sweet tea infusion with fresh lemonade and mint.

PM Burger: Everyone you know has raved about this burger, made with local beef from Remington-Lott Farms in Canton, Miss.

A brioche bun takes this beauty over the edge. If this is your lunch, allot two hours for a mandatory nap immediately after.

Hattiesburg author Josh Stricklin is...

Feeding the

Monster

BY JUSTIN M. SAWYER PHOTO BY COURTLAND WELLS

The need to create is what arguably makes human beings, well, human. While some view the creative drive as an almost mystical bit of inspiration from above, others view it as a quality inherent in all people. Mississippi author Josh Stricklin describes his creative process as “feeding the monster.” Now a horror writer based out of Hattiesburg, Stricklin graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with majors in English Lit and Advertising. When he isn’t writing, Josh performs alongside his brother Jeremiah in the band Oh, Jeremiah. For Stricklin, creativity isn’t always a pleasant experience.

“Sometime back in an artist’s life, the allure of security lost out over the monster inside of us, the monster that creates the drive, the monster that screams ideas — great ideas — at us from the back of our minds,” Stricklin said.

For him, as for so many, the siren song of creativity is inescapable.

In 2013, Josh was struck by a car while crossing the street. Not only was he left with a shattered tibia and a fractured hand, but he’d also been carrying his tablet at the time, which was completely destroyed in the collision.

This may sound like an unimportant detail, but to a writer, the loss was heart breaking. Josh had two-thirds of his first novel on the computer’s hard drive. He managed to save 25 pages of his work. Most people would have given up at this point or simply started a new project. Josh Stricklin isn’t most people. He soldiered on and did what artists have always done: used his own personal experiences to create a more meaningful piece of art.

“One of my characters had to go through what I went through. It was a form of inspiration that I didn’t necessarily love, but it definitely helped me,” Stricklin said.

He used his experiences with the accident, and the physical rehabilitation that followed, to influence his writing. The result was Stricklin’s debut novel “Those Who Are Left.” It tells the story of Derrick Martin, a Louisiana farmer, who journeys through a post-apocalyptic Southern U.S. with a motley crew of fellow survivors in search of his wife. Along the way they have to survive attacks from Screamers — people struck by a sudden madness — as well as other survivors who have less than noble intentions.

Comparisons to such pop cultural milestones such as “The Walking Dead” and “Night of the Living Dead” are unavoidable, but Stricklin believes that the setting of his novel is enough to distinguish it from both the figurative and literal hordes of undead monsters that shamble across our collective consciousness.

“The South has a down home feel that’s not like most places,” he explained.

His second novel “King of Evil” delves further into Stricklin’s view on creativity. In the novel a young couple relocates in an effort at a fresh start. The move rejuvenates the husband, an artist whose new project becomes all consuming. Things get strange when what he’s created comes to life, a feeling that Stricklin relates to.

“King of Evil” will be released next month and will be available on Amazon.com as well as Josh’s website, thegreenroses.com.

dime entertainment // 21

Behind the Veil

From left: Mike Fuentes, Vic Fuentes, Tony Perry and Jaime Preciado

22 // dime entertainment

l

A Q&A with Pierce the Veil’s Mike Fuentes

BY JENN DEVEREAUX

San Diego post-hardcore quartet Pierce the Veil was formed in 2006 by brothers Vic and Mike Fuentes. They recently released their new album Misadventures, the long awaited follow-up album to Collide the Sky. Drummer Mike Fuentes took some time out of a sold-out touring schedule to tell DIME all about the band’s new album, crazy fan experiences and how they got Matt Pinfield to be in their new music video.

JENN DEVEREAUX: You guys released Misadventures last month. Can you tell me a little bit about the process of making this album?

MIKE FUENTES: It was a crazy process. We went into this record similar to our older records. We were touring non-stop, and we had to take time off to write.

We stayed home for close to a year and wrote eleven songs, and then we went into the studio with Dan Korneff, our producer. He also did our last record Collide With the Sky. We got in the studio and started pre-production, and we ended up having to cut two songs from the record, which is crazy because we ended up having to write two songs in the studio, which we don't normally do. We normally have all the songs preset, and we spend months and months on each song. We basically got in a circle and just started writing anything we could.

JD: What happened to the songs that got cut? Will they end up on another album?

MF: They’re in the vault right now. We lock them up, and if they work for another record, we might revisit them for certain parts. They just didn't fit with all the other songs we had.

JD: You guys went on tour in the middle of making the album. Did that help with the creative process?

MF: Yeah! We had a world tour booked, and then Warped Tour in the middle of the record process. That kind of became a blessing because we got to go out and play some shows and see our fans. Vic was struggling with lyrics so I think that helped him, and once we got back from those tours, he was able to finish. But he also did a lot of traveling after that too because he realized that he wasn't going to come up with anything just staring at the same four walls in a studio, so he ended up taking a lot of trips. At Big Bear, he was in a cabin for a while, and then he went up to Seattle and was influenced a lot by the grunge rock scene there. That was where he finished the last couple of songs, and now it’s finally out. We are super stoked.

JD: The definition of misadventure is an “unfortunate mishap.” What kind of adversity or obstacles did you guys overcome that would lead you to put this

as the title of your album?

MF: When you do an album, you have all of these deadlines from the label and all of the people that are working with you. We realized that we can’t pay attention to these deadlines. It’s like, if you're an artist painting a picture, you don't tell the artist to hurry up. It’s done when it’s done, and there is no rushing art. People were telling us, “It’s got to be done by this date.” We were like, “If you want a half ass record we can give it to you in a week.” <Laughs> In that perspective, it was kind of cool because we realized that we are in control, and we are able to do things on our own time. We knew it wasn't ready so we took the time to really reach out, and Vic found all the lyrics that were meaningful. Each song has meaning, and there’s a story to every song. So that’s one of the misadventures, just trying to get past that, and also the tours that came up in the middle and all the places we visited while finishing the record as well.

JD: The single The Divine Zero off this album is up for Song of the Year for Alternative Press Music Awards. How do you guys feel about being nominated?

MF: Oh, it’s an honor! AP has supported us for a while now, and, you know, the fans are the ones who vote for that. We put that song out before Warped Tour because the kids were so ready for new music, so we finished that song first, and it got a great response. It’s actually one of my favorite songs to play live now. It’s so cool hearing all the kids sing these new songs because we've been playing the old ones forever. We played in Denver last night, and the crowd sang all the new songs just as loud as the old songs, so it’s pretty cool.

JD: The song Floral and Fading is different than any other Pierce the Veil song that I’ve heard, but it’s one of my favorites off the album. Were there any bands that you were listening to at the time that may have given you a little inspiration for this song?

MF: That song is actually one of my favorite ones, too, but it’s definitely something we’ve never done. It’s definitely one of the slowest tempo songs we’ve ever done, but I’m not really positive what the main influences for that one was with Vic as far as melodies. I always got a kind of Pierce the Veil meets Weezer vibe out of it. That one is awesome to play live, too, because the kids just sing that one so loud.

I think we might be pushing that one for a single soon.

PIERCE THE VEIL TAKES THE STAGE AT HOUSTON OPEN AIR ON SUNDAY, SEPT. 25.

TICKETS CAN BE FOUND AT HOUSTONOPENAIR.COM.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE MIKE FUENTES EVER RECEIVED WAS...

Probably from my dad. When I first started playing, he told me to play with my heart and soul. I never really got that when I was younger, but I do now.

He always told me to feel the music, and now I know what he means because when you look at a guitar player or drummer and you see them play live, you can really tell if they are into it or if they are just trying to get through it. I really respect when you can see an artist playing with his heart and soul and he's really into it. It comes across when he's hitting those notes and if he's really digging into it. I think that’s the best advice my dad ever taught me, and I’ve actually got “Heart & Soul” tattooed on my neck.

JD: The band is on the bill for Houston Open Air. Do you think the song Texas is Forever will be the anthem of the weekend?

MF: <Laughs> It’s definitely our fastest song, and I know that’s a pretty aggressive bill for us to be on. It’s a lot of heavy hitters so, yeah, I think Texas is Forever will be the anthem. I definitely see a circle pit.

JD: I’ve read that one of your biggest musical influences when you were teaching yourself to the play the drums was Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.

How did you incorporate their sound into your drumming style?

MF: Oh, that’s awesome. I’m actually wearing a Bone Thugs-N-Harmony shirt right now. <laughs> I don't know, I was just always obsessed with how fast they could rhyme and how fast they could rap.

They rapped with some sort of melody as well, so it 24 // dime entertainment

was kind of like singing and rapping at 100 mph.

I’ve always been a fan of really fast drumming, so I guess that kind of just went hand in hand. I never played to Bone Thugs. I just always loved how fast they could rap, and that was the coolest to me.

JD: You mentioned that you like fast drumming, but you use a single bass drum pedal, which is different from a lot of punk bands who use the double bass drum pedals. Why is that?

MF: Yeah, when I was in high school, I was in a punk band. They wanted to go hardcore style, and they wanted me to get a double bass and just start playing breakdowns. I never wanted to be in, like, a “breakdown-y” band. I always just wanted to play punk and rock. I grew up listening to my dad’s records, Jimi Hendrix, a lot of jazz, Santana and stuff like that. I just never wanted to go that route. I know you don't have to play hardcore if you have a double bass, but that’s what they wanted to do. I just

avoided that, and I was like “nah, I'm gonna stick with the single pedal,” and it kind of stuck with me and my brother. We've always wrote to a single pedal.

I think there are cool ways we write as well because we will write a part and it calls for double bass, but we will figure out different parts of the drum kit to emulate the double bass. So I’ll play something on the floor tom super fast or just incorporate the whole drum kit for those parts. I think that kind of makes our style as well.

JD: Do you have any pre-show rituals?

MF: Ooooh, do we! An hour before the set, we will clear the dressing room where guests have to go wherever they go. We all change into our show clothes and start getting pumped up. We usually just blast Slipknot or the heaviest music we can find, and it’s pretty much everyone in a room running around like crazy and just getting the blood flowing and stretching out. I take out a little practice kit that

DW gave me. They call it a tree, and it’s like four practice pads that my drum tech puts together for me.

I’ll usually play on that thing for half an hour, and then I’ll join the party and run around the room, and then we will hit the stage.

JD: You guys have a pretty hardcore fan-base, which I witnessed first hand at the 2012 Warped Tour. What is your craziest fan experience?

MF: Oh, man, well, we’ve had a couple times where we’ve played a show, and we’ve gone back to the bus to change and shower up and then there’s actually been fans in the bus, just chilling. I remember one time we played a show, and we were walking back to the bus and there were a couple kids behind us. We all thought they were Jaime’s guests because Jaime had some family out that night, so we all got on the bus and these two kids were sitting there. We all looked at each other, and we were like “Hey, what’s your names?” They introduced themselves. We were like, “Oh, cool. Who

do you guys know?” And they were like, “Oh, we just came to hang out.” We were like “What!? You guys can’t be on here. You’ve got to go!” And they were like “Ok, thanks,” and they just took off. <Laughs> JD: So basically, to get on the tour bus, you just have to act natural, like you are part of the band?

MF: <Laughs> Apparently, yeah! Apparently, it’s really easy.

JD: I saw some leaked photos of Matt Pinfield dressed as an old man for the new music video for Circles. Do you care to elaborate on that?

MF: Ohhhhh yeah! He is in our new video. We did a podcast with him a couple of weeks ago. We were talking to him about stuff he’s done. Like, he’s been in a Limp Bizkit video and just a few videos here and there, and he’s such a legend in the music scene. He’s probably the smartest, most knowledgeable guy I’ve ever talked to

about music, especially in our genre as well. So I know a lot of our fans don’t really know who he is because that was back in our day, but we just asked him, “Would you ever be interested in being in a Pierce the Veil video?” That was on the podcast, and he was like “Oh, of course.” Last week we actually did hit him up, and he was like “Oh, I’m so down.” So he flew out, and he got in this crazy outfit for the video. He nailed it, so I think it’s going to be so cool.

JD: What can fans expect on this tour?

MF: Well, we are playing the whole Misadventures record from start to finish, but we aren’t just playing the songs. We are actually doing cool things in between and during the songs as well, just to get the fans involved. We don’t like just playing the songs.

We like to write cool parts or extend the bridges — you know, get the fans involved and make a show of it — and we also encore with some old stuff, so anyone who hasn’t learned all the new songs can hear a couple of old ones as well.

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The DŁX PHOTO BY C STUDIO INC.

WHERE IT STARTS The DŁX

BY COURTNEY CREEL PHOTOS BY KATE DEARMAN

The Mississippi music scene is quickly expanding outside of the country roots the rest of the world expects to find within our borders.

Indie-rock, pop, hip-hop, shoegaze, jazz, hardcore-punk, grunge, electronica, folk — name any genre and you’ll find Mississippians making a name in each one. Hattiesburg-based band The DŁX is no exception. Although the group has only released two songs, just those eight minutes alone are enough to have any listener begging for more.

Shawn Chambliss, lead singer and mastermind behind The DŁX, was exposed to various genres from an early age — his father was a disco teacher and Shawn’s payment for for helping on his aunt’s farm was Garth Brooks cassette tapes. His musical tastes have transformed since childhood and beyond his hipster-inspired teenagedom, where he loved anything you’d never heard of, and now, at 25 years old, he isn’t afraid to embrace his true musical love.

“I really enjoy pop music,” Chambliss admitted.

And if you’ve ever heard the song “Calling You Out,” it’s undeniable that Chambliss hita homerun out of the pop park. With inspirations like Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, Brand New, Fun and, yes, even Taylor Swift, it’s not hard to fathom how Chambliss can produce a song that you’ll find yourself humming weeks later (we know from experience).

Although the alt-pop experiment publicly entered the spotlight last year, behind the scenes, Chambliss has been shaping The DŁX since 2013. While Chambliss was filling in with a cover band at his former high school’s homecoming, he met Mark Wheat, The DŁX’s now drummer and co-production manager, and the two hit it off instantly.

“At one point I said, ‘This is going to sound weird, but I think we’re going to change the world,’” Chambliss recalled. “Mark responded with, ‘I think we have to exchange numbers for that.’”

Chambliss later showed Wheat the lyrics he had been writing, and Wheat encouraged him to finish the songs — songs that would become The DŁX.

4 FACTS ABOUT SHAWN • Shawn started playing guitar when he got a beginner’s guitar for Christmas in fifth grade. Like any normal 10-year-old, he picked it up twice and then stuck it in a corner to accumulate dust. After watching a friend’s brother play a Jimi Hendrix song two years later, he decided to try again — except this time he fell in love.

• This young musician was afraid of singing in front of people for the longest time, but you’d never know it watching him perform live now. He first overcame his fear by singing in front of his church congregation.

•If you’ve ever met him in person, you know he is one of the most down-toearth guys you could meet, but Shawn’s also an avid hugger.

•As much as he’s tried, Shawn has a difficult time writing sad songs, but, according to him, he may have hit the nail on the head with a song on The DŁX’s new EP.

So what exactly is “The DŁX,” and what does it mean? Chambliss broke it down for us.

“I wanted to name not only a band, but a

group — a group that could unite myself, the band, the crew and the fans. The name came from the abbreviated form of ‘The Deluxe,’ but it is said as the individual letters,” Chambliss explained. “It’s meant to be a reminder that people are special, no matter how they are presented. You are important.

You are deluxe. You are The DŁX.” Although you’ll almost always see The DŁX in full band form when performing, Chambliss is basically a Brendon Urie (Panic!

At The Disco), the main member who performs with an interchangeable band, but he does have his preferred partners, including Mark (drums) Joy Wheat (backup vocals/ keyboard) and Ethan Manning (guitar).

The DŁX had their first live show in February of last year at the Historic Hattiesburg American Building with opening bands Dream Cult and The Devil Music Co. Since then, they’ve played with Oh, Jeremiah, Quinn Erwin and opened for Echosmith at last year’s Eaglepalooza.

One of Chambliss’ main goals when performing is to leave everything on the stage. “The audience isn’t [at a show] for me, I’m there for them,” he said.

Chambliss likes to give his everything to the crowd not only musically, but also with visual effects, energy and merchandise.

“I want the audience to leave with something to remember us by,” he explained.

If everything goes as planned for The DŁX, fans should have something tangible — a six song EP — to really remind them of The DŁX in September. Although the EP was recorded and perfected last August, Chambliss has been taking the necessary precautions, including shopping the album to record labels around the country, to ensure that their first real record goes as far as possible.

“This is the most proud I’ve ever been of any music I’ve ever created,” Chambliss said.

However, the frontman was understandably tight lipped when it came down to details about the record. When asked if there was a projected title, Chambliss replied with a smile, “It has letters in it.”

Listen to The DŁX on Spotify, SoundCloud (/thedlx), YouTube, iTunes or their website, thedlx.net.

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PHOTO // COURTLAND WELLS

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THIS MONTH'S FEATURED ARTIST

Ricardo Moody HATTIESBURG @reeecardo Ricardomoody.com Age: 38

In the Mood 32 // dime entertainment

BY MEAGHEN STARK

With his quiet demeanor, laid back temperament and boyish features, it’s easy to imagine contemporary artist Ricardo Moody as a child, arms and elbows atop a table, engrossed in his drawings. The artist could easily go unnoticed in a crowded room, except that his personal style speaks volumes.

When I arrive at Ricardo’s home, he is wearing a Hurley x Tim Hendricks tee, red vintage Nike low tops, a Milkcrate Athletics 5-panel hat and hipster approved denim. I didn’t know God made teachers like this. He is way cooler (and cuter) than the schoolmarmish educators who walked my high school’s halls.

Born in Orlando, Fla., to an American mother and Nicaraguan father, Ricardo is self taught. He works in multiple mediums: acrylic, pastels, watercolor, gouache, but he favors a ballpoint pen and paper above all.

The artist spent most of his young adult life living in Denver with a bird’s eye view of the majestic Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s peaceful wildernesses. He didn’t have a car and made the most of Colorado’s great outdoors: skateboarding, hiking, going to city parks. Those natural wonders became a theme in his earlier works that he continues to draw inspiration from daily. Take a look at his Patterns and Mind’s Eye series on his website. These paintings feel simultaneously free-spirited and grounded, just like being in nature.

Ricardo and his wife Sally, a social worker, have been married for 11 years. They returned to Hattiesburg four years ago to be closer to family. The honorary Southerner’s days are spent teaching art appreciation, advanced drawing and pottery at Presbyterian Christian School (PCS).

Moody is not your traditional teacher, in look or in practice. In his unorthodox classroom, he doesn’t use a textbook, develops his own lesson plans, learns alongside his students (as in, learning to throw pottery) and frequently brings his own paintings to the classroom, meaning his students get to experience a real, living, breathing, working artist — an invaluable experience for the 7th – 12th graders at PCS. What he enjoys most about his day job is helping students flesh out art projects, drawings, paintings, installations and pieces of

pottery that at first may seem unrealizable or impossible to create.

“I remember my art teacher, especially in middle school, being such a positive influence.

I want to help my students gain an appreciation for art,” Ricardo said.

Working with children, being a teacher, is a gift and a talent. I wonder if Ricardo also sees a bit of himself in his students, those defiant adolescents, awkward teenagers with hormones raging and aspirations awakening.

Moody is in fact a late bloomer. He says it wasn’t until he was working at Kaleidoscope Corner, Denver Public Schools' licensed after school program, that he rediscovered his passion for drawing.

“I took the lead on art projects there,” he explained. “I was 30 years old and suddenly remembered how much I loved drawing as a kid.”

With encouragement from his supportive wife and a deep-rooted determination to succeed, he made the decision to become a working artist. He’s 38 now and doing exactly

that. Nights and weekends, he paints as much as possible. Travel, whether local or long distance, keeps him re-energized and inspired in his work.

The couple look forward to their monthly trip down I-59 to New Orleans for the city’s HiVolt Coffee on Magazine Street — Ricardo’s a cold brew or ‘pour over’ kind of guy — and for luscious Creole cuisine and window shopping. Moody admits to finding heaps of inspiration in the artful visual merchandising of the Big Easy’s boutiques.

“I love going in Anthropologie, while my wife is shopping, and looking at the in-store installations and window displays,” he admitted.

Wynwood Walls in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District also serves as a gritty and colorful muse. The graffiti and street art epicenter happens to be a hop, skip and jump away from Ricardo’s parents who live in Florida.

“Because we visit so close to Art Basel [each December], we get to see a lot of fresh stuff, some of the work is not even finished,” he said.

This past summer, Sally and Ricardo took an all-American road trip. Starting in Hattiesburg, they drove to San Diego then 11 hours north to Mendocino, taking in California’s awe-inspiring jagged coastline, seaside surfer towns and otherworldly redwood forests along the way. Moody and his wife certainly know how to enjoy the journey. The industrious artist said that after a trip like that, he can work for months.

Ways of Knowing, Moody’s most recent series, reflects his search for beauty in his current surroundings. His goal with these paintings is to bring those beautiful objects, whatever they may be, to life on canvas.

His home, which also serves as his studio, is full of mid-century accent pieces, paintings from flea markets, an authentic library card catalog and a collection of modish owl figurines. But it’s his wife’s wide variety of healthy houseplants that he is painting now.

In June, the artist’s first large scale mural was completed as part of The Glass House Collective’s public art programs.

Glass House Collective, based in East Chattanooga, chose Moody to adorn an entire side of their black office building with graphic white lines.

FACES OF MODERN MISSISSIPPI

BY JULIAN RANKIN

This series is presented in conjunction with Mapping a Modern Mississippi, an initiative by the Mississippi Museum of Art celebrating the state’s trailblazers and innovators during the run of their blockbuster modern art exhibition, When Modern Was Contemporary: Selections from the Roy R. Neuberger Collection. Visit the Museum in Jackson through October 30 to witness work by more than 50 of the 20th century’s most influential artists — Pollock, Rothko, de Kooning, Calder, O’Keeffe and many others — on view together in the state for the very first time.

Be Modern.

FERN CROSSLEY McComb, Mississippi Radio Broadcaster and Community Organizer • Hosts radio show on McComb’s WAKK FM where she provides platform for local doers and makers • Operates the gallery of her late husband, Charles Crossley, who was honored by the Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters in 2010 • The unofficial cheerleader for all things art and culture in McComb, known around town as Miss Fern

JULIAN RANKIN: We’re speaking here on the porch of the Charles R. Crossley Memorial Art Gallery, which is appropriate, since you ended up here in Mississippi after meeting your late husband on the West Coast. What about his legacy still keeps you going?

MISS FERN: My late husband would take a blank slate and create something from his spirit, and so I try to do that to help push other people so that they can come into what their spirit is and what they do.

Once we find out what we really like, and we do what we really like, the box disappears. And when that box disappears, you’re so free. Be modern, dare to be different? I’ve been that way all my life.

JR: Your radio show is a platform for any and everything related to creativity in McComb. If someone were to tune in, what might they hear?

MF: I focus in on the community. We have a lot of talent but people don’t get exposed to the larger part of the community. They don’t get any recordings, and they aren’t in any productions. I try to create productions on radio where they can get involved so we can showcase them.

I go into arts and into theatre and I even go into the political realm. I was talking to a lady the other day and thinking, wouldn’t it be nice if

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we had music in congress to open it up so they could be bobbing and get rid of those sour looks? Can you imagine the difference you would have? You would have a different atmosphere. Music sets that tone, that atmosphere, and it changes a community.

JR: If you were the DJ for Congress, what would you play?

MF: The Wobble. <laughs> Have you ever done the Wobble? Got to learn how to do that Wobble! But seriously, I would play the song, “It’s My Guitar,” by our local modern bluesman Mr. Sipp.

JR: Even though you aren’t from here by birth, you’re undeniably a Mississippian. When you look around the state and think about the future, what do you see?

MF: This is a beautiful place to live, and it seems that something is being birthed. First you have signs you’re going into labor, but eventually that birth is going to come. You’ve had a lot of pain. But once you see that beautiful child, all that pain was worth it. And so I think what’s happening in Mississippi. We’re going through a birthing process of being modern, daring to be different, and bringing the arts into full force.

This is a beautiful place to live, and it seems that something is being birthed. First you have signs you’re going into labor, but eventually that birth is going to come. You’ve had a lot of pain. But once you see that beautiful child, all that pain was worth it. And so I think what’s happening in Mississippi.

We’re going through a birthing process of being modern, daring to be different, and bringing the arts into full force.

— Fern Crossley

MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM of ART

Z

ooing

in the South

BY VALERIE WELLS // PHOTOS BY COURTLAND WELLS

Strutting peacocks and expressive primates might be the interactive backdrop for your next date. A slow walk through a zoo can reveal a potential partner’s sense of humor or sensitivity toward different animals. Zoos all over the South want to attract more millennials — single or coupled — with special programs aimed at young professionals and creatives.

Here are some in the Deep South you may want to visit.

Meet some of the furry faces from the Hattiesburg Zoo on the next few pages. For details on these creatures, visit dimeentertainment.com 36 // dime entertainment

Mississippi Hattiesburg Zoo — Besides observing 80 species here, you can also spend an afternoon feeding and caring for a sloth. Regular admission is $5, but a sloth experience will cost $40 and a scheduled appointment. The zoo is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 107 S. 17th Ave., Hattiesburg, Miss. 601-545-4576. www.zoohattiesburg.com Jackson Zoo — This zoological park includes 125 species, including orangutans and tigers. The Discovery Zoo Contact Yard offers a chance to pet animals that aren’t cranky. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Christmas. Admission is $10.25. 2918 W. Capitol St., Jackson, Miss. www.jacksonzoo.org Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo — Besides buffalo, the park features giraffes, zebras, Watusi cattle and Capuchin monkeys. Take a guided tour on horseback or try the zipline. Regular admission is $11, but the special tours are extra. The park is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m.to 4 p.m. Sunday. 2272 N. Coley Road, Tupelo, Miss. 662-844-8709 www.tupelobuffalopark.com

Alabama Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo — Schedule a time to play with lemurs or kangaroo joeys at this 17-acre zoo. Regular admission is $11. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. 1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, Ala. 251-968-5732. www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org The Birmingham Zoo — The 230 species at this zoo include endangered species from six continents. Regular admission is $16. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham, Ala. 205-879-0409. www.birminghamzoo.com

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Montgomery Zoo — Watch trainers work with lions or attend a question-and-answer session with an elephant keeper. Regular admission is $15. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Ala. 334-240-4900. www.montgomeryzoo.com

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Louisiana Alexandria Zoological Park — The zoo has 160 species and includes a Louisiana habitat exhibit. Open Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Regular admission $7.50.

3016 Masonic Drive, Alexandria, La. 318-441-6810. www.thealexandriazoo.com Audubon Nature Institute — Every day, this historic New Orleans zoo offers animal presentations, zookeeper chats and feeding displays. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Regular admission is $19.95. 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, La. 504-861-2537. www.audubonnatureinstitute.org.

Baton Rouge Zoo — Animal attractions include tigers, black rhinos, flamingos, alligators, and giraffes. The zoo has helped reintroduce the Guam rail, Arabian oryx and golden lion tamarin into the wild. Regular admission is $8.75.

Open 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. 3601 Thomas Road, Baton Rouge, La. 225-775-3877. www.brzoo.org Chimp Haven — This sanctuary for retired medical-research chimpanzees is only open six days a year to visit. For the rest of 2016, the dates are Sept.

17, Oct. 15, and Nov. 19. Admission is $10. The limited hours for this visit are 9 a.m. to noon, and that is only for those specific dates. 13600 Chimpanzee Place, Keithville, La. 318-925-9575. www.chimphaven.org Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo — Besides lions, tigers and bears, this zoo also has the Hall of Small, dedicated to insects. Boat rides are available for $3.

Regular admission is $4.50. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 1405 Bernstein Park Road, Monroe, La. (318) 329-2138. www.monroezoo.org

Arkansas Little Rock Zoo — Watch zookeepers feed penguins, great apes and alligators.

Regular admission is $12.95. Open 9 a.m.

to 5 p.m. every day. 1 Zoo Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 501-666-2406. www.littlerockzoo.com Riddle’s Elephant and Wildlife Sanctuary — This haven for both Asian and African elephants isn’t open daily, but you can book an adventure weekend for $700 per person. That includes feeding, bathing and learning how to care for elephants, plus your own human meals and lodging. Greenbrier, Ark. 501-589-3291. www.elephantsanctuary.org

Tennessee Nashville Zoo at Grassmere — Every Friday, zookeepers hold talks about different animals. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day until Oct. 14, when the hours change to 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Regular admission is $16. 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, Tenn. 615-833-1534. www.nashvillezoo.org Memphis Zoo — More than 3,500 animals, representing more than 500 different species, live at the 70-acre zoo, including a pair of pandas. This past March, a baby orangutan was born.

Regular admission is $15. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Oct. 15, when the closing time changes to 4 p.m.

2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis, Tenn.

901-333-6500. www.memphiszoo.org

Georgia Zoo Atlanta — The zoo has wildlife shows and keeper talks included with the regular admission price of $25.99, one of the steepest in the South. Open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta, Ga. 404-624-5600. www.zooatlanta.org Wild Animal Safari — You can drive your own vehicle through this park or take the guided tour on a complimentary bus ride.

Regular admission is $21.95. Hours vary, so check online or call first. 1300 Oak Grove Road, Pine Mountain, Ga. 706-663-8744. www.animalsafari.com

All about

BY ANDIE SZABO

• The largest urban bat colony in North America lives under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin. Crowds gather to watch the bats take flight at night, and they form a black cloud when they emerge.

• Bats are protected by law in most states, so it’s actually illegal to kill one. The most extensive thing you can do to evacuate bats is to evict them and block their entrances back in — unless it’s spring. Bats have their babies in early spring. Those babies are unable to fly for several months after birth. Because of this, you cannot evict a colony of bats between the months of May and August because doing so would cause the babies to be trapped and die.

those bats • Everyone thinks bats have rabies, but less than 1 in 100 bats will ever contract rabies. When a bat gets rabies, it will usually seclude itself to die.

• Bats in this area of the U.S. eat insects (like mosquitos) and are very beneficial neighbors. One bat can eat more than 1,000 mosquito-like insects in one night.

• Bats are not blind. They use echolocation to navigate but most actually have small eyes.

• Bats hibernate in late fall until spring arrives.

• You can install bat houses as a safe environment for hundreds of bats while keeping them out of your own dwelling.

More information and facts about bats can be found on batconservation.org.

To learn how one DIME contributor survived a bat infestation in her own home, visit DIMEentertainment.com

Which beast is in you?

Spirit influences come and go, but each of us has a dominant creature calling the shots at any given time. Remember, this animal is meant for this moment in your life and is in no way permanent. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like your animal, consider how to transform and summon a different guide. Share your results with us by tagging @dime_entertainment on instagram.

1) Pick your booze of choice: A. Old-Fashion B. Wine C. Tequila D. Craft beer E. Mimosa

4.) What do you hate the most?

A. Waking up in the morning B. Small animals C. Being stood up D. Surprise parties E. Wearing clothes

2) What do you put first?

A. Job B. Family C. Experiences D. Nature E. Friends

3) What would you likely be arrested for?

A. Robbing a bank B. Talking back to a cop C. Streaking D. Peace rally E. Graffiti

5.) Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the longest you can be comfortable without a shower?

A. 2 days B. One week C. Several weeks D. 12 hours E. When the spirit moves you

If you got mostly A’s: You’re a PANTHER

If you got mostly C’s: You’re a WOLF

Traits: Powerful Protective Courageous Uses quiet dominance

Traits: Desire freedom Instinctual Trust issues Free spirited

Nurturing Bold Feminine

You’re a sly, sneaky yet powerful and commanding creature.

You get your way in all things through hard work and determination. Others should get out of your way because you demand the top spot and will do anything to achieve it.

Suggestions for a shift in animal guide: Go to Taco Tuesday, get out of the house and quit being a self-centered ass.

Mostly B’s: You’re an ELEPHANT Traits: Introverted Wise Able to overcome any obstacle

Analytical Family oriented Loyal Impatient

You’re an intelligent, strong and compassionate human being, but your impatience and rage get the best of you sometimes. People value their relationships with you because you’re a great listener and a loyal friend.

Suggestions for a shift in animal guide: Be more patient with people who have simpler minds than you. Practice yoga and try not to be an uptight jerk sometimes.

Loyal to friends Pack mentality Highly competitive Mysterious

You’re a free spirit and a true wild thing. You’re competitive with friends and foes, and sometimes erratic, often considered a loose cannon, but you enjoy the company of your pack and they appreciate you back. Your inner cynic makes getting close difficult, but over time you form unbreakable, lifelong bonds.

Suggestions for a shift in animal guide: Try intentional relaxation, and place yourself in scenarios where you can allow trust to break down your walls.

If you got mostly Ds: You’re a MOUSE Traits: Grounded Humble Adaptable Neat freak

Thrifty Youthful Industrious

People always read you to be very innocent. Perhaps you appear to be more innocent than you feel, but your modest personality often keeps you out of the spotlight. In the background, you’re able to focus on your work and your passion. You can also assess situations from afar without making costly life mistakes. You learn via observation rather than experience.

Suggestions for a shift in animal guide: Take a few risks outside of your comfort zone. Forgive yourself and others for making a mess, and find ways to be more generous to others with your resources and your time.

If you got mostly E’s: You’re aN OTTER Traits: Joyful Agility Playful Creative

Happy-go-lucky Confident Curious Territorial

You’re easily the life of the party, and can’t help but steal the show with your comedic side. Your name is always on the guest list, yet it when it comes to close relationships, those you can count on in a crisis are few. Everyone loves a cut-up but no one expects you to have feelings too. You make a fantastic team member, thanks to your spark and provocative nature but you can quickly become obnoxious. In nearly all things, you do you.

Suggestions for a shift in animal guide: You and the mouse can make a great pair if you’re careful not to overrule them at every opportunity. If you want something, ask for it in sincerity, rather than address it as a joke.

Hangout

2016 PHOTOS & WORDS

BY JENN DEVEREAUX

Thousands of swimsuit-clad music lovers descended upon the beach town of Gulf Shores for the 7th annual Hangout Music Festival.

With an estimated cap of 40,000 attendees, this year’s 3-day festival completely sold out, which is not surprising considering the monumental lineup featuring headliners The Weeknd, Florence and the Machine, Panic! At the Disco, Ellie Goulding, Cage the Elephant, Alabama Shakes and Lenny Kravitz.

Big Grams, the collaboration trio consisting of electronic rock group, Phantogram and Outkast’s Big Boi, performed a stellar mashup of both act’s hit songs, “Mouthful of Diamonds” and “Ms. Jackson.”

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Abel Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd, informed the crowd that he was told he should pull out of the festival due to his entire production set being destroyed by the weather earlier that day, to which he swiftly responded, “Alabama, you know what I told them? Fuck that!” And with that, he closed the night out performing hits like, “Earned It’ and “Can’t Feel My Face” as well as “6 inch,” the collaboration song he recorded with Beyonce for Lemonade.

Matt & Kim brought their typically contagious energy.

Run the Jewels’ high energy song, “Close Your Eyes,” mixed with insane amounts of giant inflatable unicorns bouncing through the crowd, amped up the audience.

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TUESDAY 1/2 PRICE PITCHERS | 5-10 PM OPEN MIC NIGHT | 9 PM WEDNESDAY FREE LIVE TRIVIA | 7 PM SATURDAY FREE LIVE JAZZ 6-8 PM Fetty Wap drew in a massive crowd for his set at the Hangout Stage.

Brendon Urie from Panic! At The Disco brought his shirtless bod and his own cover of Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bohemian Rhapsody.

LIVE MUSIC

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The sweet sounds of Florence and the Machine paired with singer Florence Welch’s angelic blue garb and whimsical fairy-like barefoot dancing was the perfect act to close out the night. Before Florence took to the stage, she ran out to the crowd to personally hand out roses to some lucky fans.

Ellie Goulding’s performance was timed perfectly with the sunset later in the afternoon.

Pictured below: At New Orleans’ Bold Sphere Music at Champions Square, an unlikely pair, pop-rock bands Weezer and Panic! At the Disco, managed to make it work by merging two completely different fan bases (and age groups) for an explosive co-headlining tour on June 12.

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JERRY DOUGLAS BAND Duling Hall

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THE MELVINS helms alee

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September 14 INDIGO GIRLS Duling Hall

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RADNEY FOSTER shannon mcnally

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September 28 BAND OF HORSES Thalia Mara Hall

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ANDERSON EAST Duling Hall

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Jonathon “Boogie” Long

OS live

does the

blues Ascendant blues stars Jonathon “Boogie” Long and Jamell Richardson prove that the future of the blues is in capably talented hands. The Ocean Springs Live free concert series will continue to bring fun and music to Mississippi’s Gulf Coast with an evening of blues on August 6.

The four-act bill begins at 4 p.m. in downtown Ocean Springs at Rosetti Park, 709 Church Street, as students from the Rock U2 music academy open before Blackwater Brass precedes Jonathon “Boogie” Long and Jamell Richardson. Arrive early to pick out the best spot on the green for your blanket and chairs. On-site food and beverag-

es will be available for purchase. All on-site beer purchases will benefit the Rock U2, The Ocean Springs Academy of Popular Music.

Jonathon “Boogie” Long is a native of Baton Rouge, La., and began his musical career as a child prodigy, teaching himself to play guitar by learning from old Southern gospel songs at the age of six. In 2011, Jonathon earned the national distinction of being crowned Guitar Center’s “King of the Blues” from a field of over 4,000 contestants, and in 2013, B.B. King himself asked Jonathan to support his four week tour. He currently heads his own blues trio known as the The Blues Revolution.

Jamell Richardson, a native of Meridian who was raised in Butler, Ala., has been heavily influenced in the musical traditions of the American Black Belt. Jamell’s grandmother infused a deeply set love of music from a very early age, involving him in gospel church activities every chance she could. By the age of 11, Jamell was an active studio recording musician, performing behind such gospel luminaries as Donnie McClurkin and Rance Allen. Later his influences expanded to incorporate Jimi Hendrix, George Benson, Eric Johnson and B.B. King. In 2014, Jamell appeared as famed guitarist Jimmy Nolen in the Mick Jagger produced “Get on Up” biopic of James Brown. Jamell’s new single “Bamasippiana” explores his Southern roots, influences and experiences formed during his musical journey on the Gulf Coast.

For more details, visit oceanspringslive.com.

BEER ME!

The Tasty Weasel bar at Oskar Blues Brewery in Longmont, Colorado, is home to numerous delicious brews like the 10.5% ABV Ten FIDY Imperial Stout and the unparalleled Death by Coconut Irish Porter.

Adventures in

Drinking Fort Collins

WORDS & PHOTOS BY ROBYN WHITE

Nuance Chocolate serves locally produced bars of chocolate worldwide, from Honduras to Ghana.

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Over the past few years, craft beer brewing has gone from relative obscurity to one of the nation’s most beloved pastimes. In fact, according to The Brewer’s Association, most Americans now live within 10 miles of a brewery, with over 1,800 microbreweries scattered across the country. But where did it all begin? Like most brilliant ideas, the birthplace of micro brewing is often debated, but Fort Collins, Colorado, remains one the most influential places for the movement in the U.S. It was the perfect combination of easy access to fresh Rocky Mountain water, along with economic incentives created in the 1970s, and the presence of beer-adoring Colorado State University students that helped Fort Collins evolve into the brewing Mecca it is today. With Anheuser-Busch leading the way by expanding to the city in 1988, Fort Collins quickly became a budding destination for brewers, spawning Odell and New Belgium brewing companies soon after. Today, Fort Collins (FoCo) alone is responsible for producing 70% of Colorado’s beer and is home to at least 17 breweries, according to the Fort Collins Brewery Guide.

So if you’re interested in learning more about one of America’s great beer cities or even if you find yourself with an extra day to kill in the Denver area (FoCo is only about an hour north), follow this beer trail for some of the best that Fort Collins has to offer (all conveniently within walking, or stumbling, distance of each other).

Start out on South College Avenue, the main drag of Fort Collins, which has a unique assortment of specialty boutiques in between college bars and restaurants.

Check out the locally-owned boutique White Balcony, with its aesthetically pleasing display of color-complementing accessories, clothing and everything in between.

From sarcastic birthday cards to books and garden gnomes, you’ll be sure to leave this shop with at least a few new favorites in tow. Continue north to Old Town Square, which is centrally located in FoCo’s downtown. If a walk around has a vague déjà vu effect, it may be because Disneyland’s Main Street USA was inspired by this area of Fort Collins. Full of cafes, bookstores, boutiques and, of course, breweries, it’s no wonder why this town has been imitated by

Fort Collins’ own 12 Cents for Marvin plays in the outdoor section of the Odell Brewing Company during the Fort Collins Music Experiment.

the supposed happiest place on earth. Stop in at Little Bird Bakeshop, a great place for morning coffee or tea and pastries. Their delightfully airy almond croissant, Manchego cheese biscuit and locally-made Bhakti chai are all excellent starters. Across from Little Bird, you’ll find Cira’s Ltd. which specializes in women’s formal and casual clothing as well as accessories. With a wide range of styles and prices, as well as an impressive sale section, the finds in Cira’s are versatile enough to charm at least a few dollars from your bank account. Around the corner, stop at Alpine Arts where you can pick up a FoCo-made souvenir, including jewelry made from local Aspen leaves, a handmade ceramic mug or a painting by a local artist. A quick walk from here to Nuance Chocolate will reward you with locally-made chocolate bars and truffles made with beans from all over the world. With mini sample sized-bars ($2.75) and full sized bars ($7), you can take an inexpensive trip around the (chocolate) world.

Nuance also serves chocolate flights ($7), truffles and a variety of chocolate-based drinks as well.

Now that you’ve managed to entertain yourself in the wee morning hours before the breweries have opened, it’s time for Beerfest.

Nearby Pateros Creek Brewing Company, which

opened in 2011, is a must-drink, tucked away in the corner behind CopperMuse Distillery. While I was nearly heartbroken over their peach basil brew tapping out before I could order it, their phenomenal Oreo porter did an excellent job of demonstrating their capability to present delicious and inventive beer options. The bar itself is a seemingly small space, but extends to a side room for live music acts. They also host Cards Against Humanity nights as well as Purls Craft nights where crafters gather to work on their latest projects…and drink beer of course.

Now that you’ve sampled one of the smaller breweries, it makes for an interesting comparison to head less than a mile away to Odell Brewing Company, one of the largest breweries in Fort Collins and more likely one that you’ve drank before as they distribute nationally. If you’re looking for a crazy flavored or fruit-infused libation, Odell will likely not deliver for you. But if you’re a purist, then a solid array of Amber, Pale and Wheat Ales, as well as IPAs, will not disappoint. Odell also serves up an expansive selection of seasonal brews, such as their Lugene Chocolate Milk Stout (named after a local farmer whose cows once ate Odell’s malt), which is not to be missed but is to be imbibed a bit slower with its 8.5% ABV. dime entertainment // 59

The mouth-watering lobster tacos at Blue Agave Grill, where the menu also features several different types of house-made margaritas as well as a large selection of Mexican-inspired seafood dishes.

Odell also has an expansive outdoor area perfect for live music and food trucks, making it one of the best places to spend an afternoon.

Just over half a mile from Odell lies FoCo’s greatest brewery success story, New Belgium Brewing Company, home of the iconic Fat Tire Amber Ale. According to the Brewers Association, FoCo based New Belgium Brewery is the largest craft beer brewery in Colorado (8th largest in the U.S.). As such, the free daily tours that New Belgium offers often book up months ahead of time so make your reservation online early. While there, try their flagship Fat Tire Amber Ale, or, if you’re a fan of IPAs, Rampant IPA or their newer Citradelic IPA. Their delicious Blackberry Barleywine Ale is a newer brew from their Lips of Faith Series and is rarer to encounter outside of the tasting room, so be sure to sample it here.

En route back to Old Town, pop into the quaint Mobb Mountain Distillers. With seating for about 15 people at maximum capacity, this quiet hole-in-the-wall is the perfect night cap on your walk back to Old Town from New Belgium. Locally owned, as much of Fort Collins is, this distillery serves tasters and cocktails made with their three products — Colorado Single (100% Rye Single Malt Whiskey), Rocky Mountain White Rye (dubbed their “moonshine”) and their American Rye Gin. Enjoy at least one Sazerac before heading closer to downtown.

If martinis are more your style than beer or whiskey, stop at Elliot’s Martini Bar, an affordable martini lounge that offers a small tapas menu in addition to sweet and savory martinis alike. With laughable drink options like Winnie the Pooh is a Drunk (made with Bourbon and honey, polished

@DIMESOUTH

off with a Bourbon-soaked gummy bear) or the intensely flavorful Mothra’s Revenge, which features pear vodka and Ghost Pepper extract, Elliot’s is a great late night hangout spot with a laid-back atmosphere that sets it apart from the blur of college bars downtown. Call it a night if you’re somehow still functioning or soak up the accumulation of your day drinking at Blue Agave Grill where the Mexican-inspired seafood dishes like the Lobster Street Tacos or Agave Lime Butter Tilapia are so delicious that they will help you realize that planning Beerfest Part Two should absolutely be your next objective upon returning home.

le d n a h u o y n a C

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r e w o P The t n i a of P Erin and Ben Napier, owners of Lucky Luxe Dry Goods and Scotsman Co., outside of Cafe La Fleur in Downtown Laurel

BY CLINT KIMBERLING It’s almost lunchtime when Sean Starwars steps out of his studio, the Woodcut Funhouse, onto Magnolia Street in downtown Laurel. Down the street he can see a construction crew painting and working on a bakery, Sweet Somethings, that has since opened its doors with resounding success. Starwars, not his given name but a moniker he’s adopted, is looking forward to the new business. Of course, he’s excited about a new place to eat near his studio, but, more than that, he’s enthusiastic about the addition of another tenant in the booming business district of downtown Laurel.

Sean is part of a group of younger generation of artists and artisans seeking to restore a once thriving business district in Laurel. These small business owners are investing their time, money and talent in the community and, in turn, are changing the downtown fabric while creating a unique small town atmosphere. This has spurred rejuvenation of older businesses as well as paved the way for new developments and ventures.

Sean has been working out of his studio space downtown for about two years. Just in that short time, he’s seen a mass of change and growth. “It’s definitely changing now,” he said. “It’s

How creatives have redrawn downtown Laurel into a hip

artist’s mecca

always been busy in daytime, but there’s new life and new shops opening all the time.”

As an artist Sean has been involved with printmaking for 25 years. He makes intricate woodcut prints incorporating bright electric colors that depict surreal scenes and characters.

“Woodcutting was something I was drawn to and eventually became good at. It’s so much fun to put a drawing on wood and then cut it out with my chisel,” Sean said. “ I love the roughness and crudeness to the images. It takes a lot of energy and effort but it suits me.”

When he first moved into his studio downtown, people teased him, saying things like, “Now there’s another artist down here, we’re going to start seeing all kinds of development soon.”

Jokes aside, that’s exactly what’s happening. Sean guesses that a connection between artists and undeveloped areas first begins because artists are always looking for affordable studio space, which they can find in abandoned stores. You get together enough and soon a coffee shop opens, then a restaurant, and the rest just follows.

Of the growth, Sean said, “It’s fun to be involved first-hand but also just to observe. There’s a lot going on, a lot of work being done on buildings. It’s nice to see activity and improvement and to see it happening outside my door.” dime entertainment // 63

One of the things happening outside his door is production and filming for the HGTV series “Home Town,” starring Laurel native Erin Napier and her husband Ben. The Napier’s opened an online wedding stationery shop from a downtown loft studio in 2008 and began their online home goods shops Lucky Luxe Dry Goods and Scotsman Co. in November of last year.

The pilot episode of “Home Town” aired in January and the first season is set to air in 2017. The pilot was a real shot in the arm for downtown Laurel. Other downtown merchants are raving about the increase in shoppers since the show aired. In fact, one of the reasons the Napiers decided to go forward with the show was knowing what it would mean to the town of Laurel and what it could do to change the perception of the town.

“Our business will be buoyed by default of being on national TV but we are working hard to send those same shoppers into every store downtown,” Erin said. “We believe 100% that the rising tide lifts all ships.”

The Napier’s are excited to see the rapid growth of the downtown area. Erin feels like the revitalization is “happening at warp speed” after so many years and so many people’s incredible efforts promoting and investing in Laurel.

“In the last year, some of the biggest vacant buildings downtown have been bought and are nearing complete restoration, and new shops and businesses are opening every week,” Erin said, “It’s a humble little town, packed with artists and entrepreneurs and makers of all kinds, all doing their thing in this tiny town, living the dream.”

Another downtown merchant benefitting from the national exposure is Adam Trest.

Trest, a Laurel native, is an established artist and entrepreneur who is known for his distinctive watercolor illustrations, including fine art maps and letterpress prints. He is now turning his focus and talent to home décor and fabric design.

Adam and his wife, Lily, recently opened a retail storefront downtown. The shop, simply called Adam Trest Home, is not only a place to buy fabrics featuring Adam’s oneof-a-kind artwork, but also features an instore studio where fans can order custom design work in fabric.

“It’s been a crazy ride,” Trest said regarding the last few months. Since opening

64 // dime entertainment

the store, the Trests have enjoyed having one-on-one interaction with customers as opposed to the wholesale business they were used to. The store has already seen a lot of local foot traffic, as well as shoppers from Jackson, Hattiesburg and the Gulf Coast.

Trest is proud to be a part of this younger generation of artists-turned-business owners in Laurel. He said this is a group that’s always heard amazing things of what Laurel used to be but no one really experienced.

“There’s been a growing and grumbling sentiment from older locals that Laurel will never be as good as it used to be,” Adam said. “We get tired of hearing that because we see the potential and so much success has already come out of that.”

One person helping artisans and small business owners pave their way is Judi Holifield. Holifield is the executive director of the Laurel Main Street, a grouped focused on economic development and historic preservation of the downtown district. She describes the organization as “an organizing body that casts a best-possible vision of downtown and also works with business owners to let them know what’s possible for them.”

There has also been a concerted effort to highlight the business-friendly nature of downtown. This includes finding ways to disincentivize empty buildings, the development of façade grant programs to help downtown business owners refresh and update their downtown building and a Grow Your Business workshop series.

Holfield says of her native Laurel, “It’s a lovely town to walk around in. I love to see what’s in the stores, run into people I know, and visit with store owners. I enjoy seeing people in town who are now living their dreams through their shops.”

Holifield says there has also been a reestablishment of civic pride in recent years.

Laurel is a tight knit community and that small town closeness extends to downtown business owners where there is a real sense of community. Trest says, “So often in business you see people out for themselves, but everybody downtown is involved and working together to create something bigger.”

Sean Starwars adds, “There’s not a lot of places like this. It’s pure and [there’s] not a lot of showiness to what we do here. It’d be so nice to think that over the next few years, it will continue to grow, but keep that specialness.”

Adam Trest, owner of ADAM TREST HOME in downtown Laurel Photo by Chad Edwards/MCE Photography

l o o h c S o T e Take M Recess ended long ago, but thankfully, adults can backpack, too. These smart accessories combine the organization you need to be CEO of your company with a playfulness reminiscent of those first-day-ofschool jitters. Strap in for hassle-free toting with colors, patterns and textures that shout, ‘let’s have an adventure!’

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The Modern History of Loose Pants

BY BRITTANY PURVIS

1970s: Bootleg jeans hit the scene and are promptly stuffed by rock gods.

1910s: Famous French designer Paul Poiret markets â&#x20AC;&#x153;harem pantsâ&#x20AC;? to the conservative women of the late Edwardian period.

1940s: Popular among minorities at the time, zoot suits (and their riots) are all the rage before WWII hits.

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2014: Jogger pants are made popular as they are comfortable and the cinched hem gives you plenty of space to show off your footwear.

1992: Disney princess Jasmine steals our hearts in her very own â&#x20AC;&#x153;harem pants.â&#x20AC;?

1998: Sales for raver favorites JNCO hit their all time high. You know you knew someone with those bad boys.

2012: Harem pants return as Justin Bieber and Korean icon PSY both sport them.

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Custom Threads Cotton isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only thing growing in North Mississippi. The custom jean business is putting down roots in Oxford, Miss. Started by Nick Weaver and his partner Josh West, Blue Delta Jean Company is an apparel design and manufacturing group specializing in bespoke denim.

Q&A with Nick Weaver of

Blue Delta Jean Company

BY ANDIE SZABO PHOTOS BY JOE WORTHAM AS: Where do your materials come from?

NW: We source denim from Cone Mills, a North Carolina Mill, which is also the same denim Levi Strauss started buying from in 1873.

AS: What separates you from other jean companies?

NW: Blue Delta allows for the customer to be a part of the design process, choosing everything from the fabric and cut to the thread theory and hardware placement. Every jean has its own pattern, as an 18-point measurement profile is created to custom fit each client. We store each pattern to create a unique shopping experience for our clients.

AS: Where did you come up with the name?

NW: The name Blue Delta ties back to the roots and heritage of both me and my partner, Josh West. I come from four generations of sharecroppers from the Delta, and Josh is an alum of Delta State. We were born and raised in North Miss., and we chose a name that stood true to our product and our process.

AS: Where are your products available?

NW: While our flagship studio is located in Oxford, customers can book fittings with professional tailors in 18 cities throughout the US, as well as Toronto and London.

AS: What is the general price range?

NW: Our prices range from $350 and up.

AS: Where can people contact you about ordering?

NW: You can request a fitting in our Oxford studio and other cities through bluedeltajeans.com. We have a booking page online with easy to follow instructions.

AS: What celebrity were you most excited about fitting/meeting?

NW: This is HARD question to answer. I’m a huge sports and music fan. I’ve made jeans for my favorite athletes in different sports, but I’d have to say going backstage with bands like Alabama Shakes, Drive By Truckers, Isbell, Sturgill, Moon Taxi, etc. It’s hard to believe these guys care about what we are doing in Mississippi. It’s been great.

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How to Master Cat Eyes

BY ANDIE SZABO ILLUSTRATION BY PAIGE PRITCHARD Despite the innumerable videos online of women butchering their eyeliner, winged liner is actually pretty simple. If you have the right products and a little know-how, it’s easy to conquer the cat eye trend.

Products Needed: Liquid liner (waterproof) Because the wing is on the outside of your eye, it’s easier to wipe away.

If you start with a decent waterproof liner, you won’t have as many issues with the wing disappearing throughout the day.

Recommendations: L’Oreal Paris 12 Hour Infallible the Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner ($8.99, ulta.com) or Kat Von D Tattoo Liner ($19, sephora. com) Gel liner Once again, waterproof liner is key. I recommend an angled liner brush for beginners. It makes it easy to get the sharp line of the wing.

Recommendations: Essence Gel Eyeliner ($3.99, ulta.com) or Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner ($26, bobbibrowncosmetics.com) Being comfortable with the product you’re using is key to perfecting your look. If you try liquid liner and can’t seem to get the hang of it, try a gel liner or vice versa. The more comfortable you are with the product and applicator the less likely you are to make a mess.

Start on the center of your eye as close to the root

of your lashes as you can get. Spaces in between your lashes and the liner will be distracting and make it look less polished.

When you have less product on your brush make a thin line from the inner order of your eye to meet up with the line you already did. Always start with a very thin line. It is easy to make a line thicker if you want a more dramatic look, but getting rid of a line that is too thick can completely ruin your eyeshadow and liner.

Start the wing by drawing a line that is a natural continuation of your bottom lash line. Now you have to decide how large you want the wing. It may take some experimentation to figure out exactly which size wing suits you.

Starting on the tip of the wing, connect a line back to the outer corner of your liner. Then fill in the triangle that you created. Go over the entire line once more to even everything out and smooth out any weird spots.

Cat Eye Pointers: Don’t over think it.

Eyes are sisters, not twins.

Sometimes one wing turns out a little different than the other. Fix it to the best of your ability and know when to just quit. Even if it seems noticeable to you, you’re probably going to be the only one to notice.

Your first try is probably not going to go perfectly.

Persevere. I would even recommend trying out winged liner at night before you wash off your makeup to master the technique before wearing it out in public.

Winged liner is often times black, but brown, navy blue and even deep purple can be appropriate for everyday wear.

Rogue Futures

BY NICOLE CHANTREAU

LEO July 23 - August 22 You’re always ready to lead — it’s in your blood — but this month, you should follow.

Someone close will plan a surprise for you, and if you take the lead and plan your own birthday shindig, you could miss out on a really thoughtful surprise party. But why am I doing telling you to do anything—you’re a Leo. I know you’re going to have a backup plan… control freak much? Whatever, your party will probably end up being cooler anyway.

VIRGO August 23 - September 22 You’re very critical, which normally works in your favor, but put your neuroses on hold this month and actually trust the world.

This time, something that seems too good to be true isn’t. Open that little puritanical heart of yours and let some loving in … or money. It might be money. Whatever the hell it is, it’s going to be good.

AQUARIUS January 20 - February 18 Don’t let a bad mood or some broken plans get you down at the beginning of the month. If you let it get to you and overthink it, you could end up in a month-long funk.

We don’t want that when the warm summer air is giving you so many opportunities to be in your element. Do some meditating and chill on it.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20 Get back to your roots and get your hands dirty this month with a garden or outdoor project. Maybe a koi pond so you can have something beautiful to stare at and relax for once or a nice new herb garden so the great things you whip up in the kitchen can be even better. Whatever you do, just get some fresh air in your lungs.

LIBRA September 23 - October 22 Don’t let yourself have a month long pity party; it looks too nice outside. Get out and be social at the beginning of the month and you won’t regret it… you may even end up having fun! Do some hang gliding or fly a kite to get in tune with your element, and all of that positive energy will keep you glowing.

PISCES February 19 - March 20 Dip your toes in the water and relax this month. You’ve been letting some straight up bullshit weigh you down, so take it to the river and let it go. You need to focus on you toward the end of the month, so get in a nice week of good napping or take a little weekend trip. Hell, maybe just get a pedicure.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20 Things are back to their gentle and calm usualness for you, which is good for keeping your two halves balanced. For you, balance is key. Go to the library and check out something on a subject you’ve always wanted to know more about. With your curiosity and passion, you could be speaking a new language next week.

SCORPIO October 23 - November 21 You want to turn over a very negative leaf this month. Don’t ruin your month with your own jealousy and stubbornness. Try to count to ten before doing anything rash, or you could make someone walk out of your life forever, especially given your history of violence. Try to keep your sting to yourself, baby.

ARIES March 21 - April 19 Things are heating up for you at work.

You’re busy with some recent changes and it’s stressing you out. Don’t let it get to you.

Let your boss know you need a long weekend after all the hard work you’ve been putting in and take a little trip for yourself… and maybe bring along your current bedfellow for some fun.

CANCER June 21 - July 22 Show the people in your life that you appreciate them and everything they do for you with a nice home cooked meal. Get fancy with it, some Julia Child shit. You’re the homemaker of the zodiac, so get that ass in the kitchen. Just don’t forget to ask about food allergies, or you’ll end up pissing off some pals.

SAGITTARIUS November 22 - December 21 There’s a spring in your step and life is on an upturn.

Keep your patience and humor about you, and you could be walking on sunshine until late fall.

Overthink things or be impatient with someone else and it could all crumble. You don’t want that promising new relationship to end, do you?

CAPRICORN December 22 - January 19 Things have been good for you lately, so try to keep some positive energy in the world to keep life moving in your favor. It doesn’t have to be a huge deal.

Don’t flip someone off when they cut you off in traffic or help someone with their groceries… it’s as simple as that to stay on the universe’s good side.

dime entertainment // 79

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