Gulf Coast Buzz (Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014)

gulf coast Your 14-day guide to fun, food and entertainment

Coastal Christmas highlighted events

THANKSGIVING recipes

Mix things up with non-traditional dishes Family Farm Day and Willow Farms Fall Festival

Hunting and Fishing Trail for People with Disabilities Christmas events on the coast

NOV. 21 – DEc. 4, 2014 Gulf Coast Newspapers

Vol. 1 Issue 15

NOV. 21 – DEC. 4

In-depth Baldwin County calendar and live music listings in every issue!

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

2 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Relief.

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

Our specialized surgery helped Michelle get cooking again.

Michelle’s menstrual symptoms were so severe, she says she was “a shut-in at least seven days every month.” That made life difficult for this busy mom of three who operates her own catering business. “Thank goodness for the robotic-assisted hysterectomy at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center,” said Michelle. “The incisions were tiny and healed fast. I was able to cater an event after just two weeks. Having this procedure is the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. I would tell any woman with symptoms like I had to find out about the surgery. It changes your life.” To learn more about surgical services at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, visit SouthBaldwinRMC.com/SurgicalServices.

Michelle Bishop McConnell Professional Caterer

Patient results may vary. Before you decide on surgery, discuss treatment options with your doctor.

Understanding the risks and benefits of each treatment can help you make the best decision for your individual situation.

76165_SBRM_McConnell_7_3x9_8c.indd 1

4/21/14 2:57 PM

gc_buzz_ad_Layout 1 11/11/14 5:16 PM Page 1

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 3

Gulf Shores Finest New Restaurant Looking for Classic Thanksgiving dishes? Round out your Thanksgiving feast with crowd-favorite side dishes from Bill’s By the Beach. The turkey might be the main event, but offering a variety of side dishes will keep your guests full and happy.

Enjoy a stress-free holiday with family and friends. View our menu at bbtb.com/pdf/thanksgiving.pdf.

Delicious, affordable coastal comfort cuisine made with fresh seasonal ingredients.

The daily lunch specials include some of our favorite entrées, "Meat & 3" with tea or coffee included for $7.99.

We have less than 35 days until Christmas, make reservations for your family or corporate holiday party!

Live Music Friday, November 21, Lisa Zanghi, 6-10pm Friday, November 28, Barstool Surfers, 6-10pm

251-948-5227 | 300 West Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542 bbtb.com | facebook.com/billsbythebeachgulfshores From Hwy 59, 2 Blocks Right on Hwy 182

4 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014 gulf coast

Letter from the editor

Your 14-day guide to fun, food and entertainment

Coastal Christmas highlighted events

THANKSGIVING recipes

Mix things up with non-traditional dishes

Hunting and Fishing Trail for People with Disabilities

Family Farm Day and Willow Farms Fall Festival

Christmas events on the coast

Alright folks, Here come the holidays — and that’s certainly not a bad thing; just prepare yourself and your family. Thanksgiving is the first big holiday in our end-of-the-year trio. First things first, prepare plenty of time ahead for this busy day of cooking and traveling. Try Jill’s recipes for any holiday dinner. Most can be prepared ahead of time and frozen for later. Also, most of these foods freeze well after Turkey Day. Maybe your family is out of town or across the country — no worries. The Hangout in Gulf Shores and the Flora-Bama in Perdido Key have Thanksgiving dinners. Even if your entire family is in town, for a small price, you get a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixin’s.

The day after Thanksgiving is known to some as Black Friday, a day of relaxation and lots of sleep for others or decorating day for other families. Whether you’re stringing lights or waiting in line in the wee hours of the morning, be sure to check our holiday events happening around the county to kick off your holiday season.

The Christmas concert at the Summerdale Library is a big fundraiser, along with Fairhope’s trio of events to kick off the Christmas season. Coastal Christmas starts the day after Thanksgiving and lasts until Christmas Eve, so there’s no shortage of events around Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

Holidays aside, visit Family Farm Day at Humming Star Alpacas in Silverhill and Willow Farms Fall Festival at the farm in Loxley. This is a great time to take your family to view some of many farms we have in Baldwin County.

As always, check out our family fun page for recipes to try with your little — or big — ones, book reviews, beer and wine for this Thanksgiving and our hunting page.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Gulf Coast Buzz editor

NOV. 21 – DEC. 4, 2014 Gulf Coast Newspapers

Vol. 1 Issue 15

NOV. 21 – DEC. 4

In-depth Baldwin County calendar and live music listings in every issue!

Cover photo is by Jay Sowers

ABOUT THE COVER Shake up your traditional Thanksgiving meal with some of Jill’s recipes.

The roasted chicken is delicious for any holiday — or any day of the week.

If you prefer pork, try the tenderloin. It can marinate during the day and roast that evening. The choices are endless.

Find out more on page 6.

Look for us submissions I In all five Gulf Coast Newspapers: The Baldwin Times, The Independent, The Foley Onlooker, The Islander and The Courier

I Comments and concerns

I In racks, boxes and locations throughout Baldwin County

I Live local music listings

I On GulfCoastNewsToday.com

gulf coast

Social Media I On Facebook: Gulf Coast Newspapers On Twitter: @gcntoday

Allison Woodham: awoodham@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

I Events calendar

Allison Woodham: awoodham@gulfcoastnewspapers.com Destiny Brown: dbrown@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

I Advertising

Eastern Shore pjohnson@gulfcoastnewspapers.com and North Baldwin rbrookins@gulfcoastnewspapers.com Central Baldwin and South Baldwin

jbouzan@gulfcoastnewspapers.com bday@gulfcoastnewspapers.com fkustura@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Your guide to fun, food and entertainment on the Gulf Coast.

Publishes the first and third Friday of each month.

Look for our next issue Friday, Dec. 5.

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 5

COVER STORY

gulf coast

WHAT’S INSIDE

11

Thanksgiving recipes Non-traditional recipes. 6-10

Publisher Sudie Gambrell

WHERE TO GO

sgambrell@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Coastal Christmas Highlighted events from the coastal celebration. 12-13

Editor Allison Woodham

awoodham@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Christmas on the Coast Holiday events around Baldwin County. 18

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Paige Renka

prenka@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Contributing Editors

Marjorie Snook Christmas Concert Holiday concert benefits Summerdale Library. 20

12-13

Willow Farms Fall Festival Help animal rescue in Loxley. 21

Jill Clair Gentry Scott Gentry Jon Robitaille Lindsay Schumacher

Thanksgiving Dinners Have a no-hassle Thanksgiving. 25

A&E Culturally Speaking ESCC concerts. 23 The Buzz on the Coast 14 Days, our comprehensive calendar. 15 Local Live Music Baldwin County music listings. 26

Destiny Brown Cathy Higgins Eric Mann Cliff McCollum John Mullen Jay Sowers John Underwood

ContributoRS

Family Farm Day. 24

Trio of Fairhope events Holiday Stroll, Movie in the Streets and the Christmas Open House. 30

Your guide to fun, food and entertainment on the Gulf Coast.

advertising

ALL ABOUT FOOD Tastings Will you celebrate Erntedankfest? 29 Breckenridge Vanilla Porter Nitro. 29

FAMILY FUN Kid-friendly recipes Thanksgiving dishes for kids. 14

OUTDOORS

Jeniece Bouzan Rebecca Brookins Brad Day Pat Johnson Frank Kustura

Aiming and Angling Alabama Hunting and Fishing Trail for People with Disabilities. 11

BOOKS/GAMES Between the Pages Ruth Reichl trilogy. 22

Gulf Coast Newspapers 21764 Media Dr., Robertsdale, AL 36567 251-947-7712 GulfCoastNewsToday.com

6 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

ABOUT THE COVER

photos by jay sowers / staff

THANKSGIVING n Mix things up with these non-traditional dishes jillianclair@gmail.com

Jill

ir Gentry Cla

By Jill Clair Gentry

Thanksgiving: turkey, ham, sweet potato casserole, green beans, pecan pie.

It’s a great menu. It really is. But sometimes … change is good.

If you’re like me and want to try something new this Thanksgiving, we’ve put together an alternative Thanksgiving menu that branches out from traditional dishes while still keeping it classy. A perfectly roasted chicken is every bit as delicious as a turkey, and I promise, this incredibly easy pork loin recipe will be

a hit. In addition, all of these dishes can be presented beautifully, and some can be prepared in advance and simply reheated on the big day.

We hope you and your family enjoy a Thanksgiving full of laughter, togetherness and, of course, fabulous food.

more Thanksgiving fun: Find kid-friendly recipes the whole family can enjoy on page 14.

Don’t want to cook this year? Go to page 25 to read about two places on the coast offering a no-hassle Thanksgiving this Turkey Day.

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Wild rice stuffed squash

Note: the rice mixture is delicious on its own. Save time by making the rice as its own side dish and omitting the squash.

Start to finish: 1 hour, 15 minutes n 3 medium acorn squash (about 1 1/2 pounds each), halved lengthwise and seeds removed n 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted n 1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar n 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped n 2 medium shallots, finely chopped n 4 celery stalks, finely chopped n 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves n 2 cups cooked wild rice n 2/3 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped n 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped n 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste) n 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

Heat the oven to 450 F and arrange a rack in the middle. Place the squash cut-side up on a baking sheet, brush 1 tablespoon of the melted butter over the tops and insides of the squash halves, sprinkle with the brown sugar and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven until just fork tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, place 1 tablespoon of the melted butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. When it foams, add the onion, shallots and celery, season with salt and pepper and stir to coat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just softened, about 6 minutes.

Stir in the thyme and cook until just fragrant, about 1 minute.

Remove from heat and stir in cooked rice, pecans, cranberries and salt and pepper.

Apple-satsumacranberry sauce

Start to finish: 30 minutes Makes 3 1/2 to 4 cups n n n n n n n

1 satsuma 2 cups water 1 tart apple, such as Granny Smith 3 cups fresh cranberries 1 1/4 cups sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Squeeze the juice from the satsuma and set the juice aside. Remove and discard the membrane from inside the rind and cut the rind into small dice. In a small saucepan over high heat, combine the rind and the water

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 7

Divide the rice filling among the roasted squash halves (about 1/2 cup for each) and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of butter over top. Continue roasting until the squash is completely fork tender, the edges have started to brown, and the filling is heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes.

and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Peel, core and quarter the apple. Cut into 1/2-inch dice and place in a saucepan. Sort the cranberries, discarding any soft ones. Add to the apples along with the satsuma juice, rind, sugar, cinnamon and cloves. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan partially. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, the apple is tender and the cranberries have burst, 10 to 15 minutes.

Transfer the cranberry sauce to a heatproof bowl and let cool for 1 hour before serving.

Or cover and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before serving. Transfer the cranberry sauce to a sauceboat and pass at the table.

8 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

Balsamic and herb roasted pork loin with vegetables Start to finish: 5 hours (1 hour active) n n n n n n n n n n

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup olive oil 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 2 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin

For the roasted vegetables: n 2-3 medium red skinned potatoes, scrubbed, diced into 1/2� cubes n 1/2 pound green beans, ends trimmed

Other ingredients: n n n n

1/4 cup canola oil salt and pepper 1 heaping tablespoon flour 1 cup chicken broth

Combine all marinade ingredients in a sealable gallon bag. Add tenderloins. Press air out of bag and seal. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Place cubed potatoes in microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 8 minutes, stirring after 4 minutes. Set aside.

Remove pork tenderloins from marinade and discard marinade.

Season tenderloins with salt and pepper. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat canola oil. When oil is hot, add tenderloins and sear on all sides, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Place skillet in oven and finish cooking tenderloins, about 15-20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 140 F. Remove pan from

oven and remove tenderloins to a cutting board and cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Increase oven heat to 450 F. Place potatoes and green beans in skillet used to cook tenderloins.

Toss to coat in the oil remaining in the skillet and season well with salt and pepper. Return the skillet to the oven and let vegetables roast for 15-20 minutes. Remove skillet from oven and transfer veggies to a serving platter.

Add the flour to the skillet and heat over medium heat for a few minutes, whisking constantly. Add chicken broth and whisk until smooth, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the skillet.

Slice tenderloins and add to serving platter. Pour pan gravy over meat and serve.

Roasted butternut squash, goat cheese and pomegranate salad Start to finish: 10 minutes n n n n

10 ounces mixed salad greens 2 cups roasted butternut squash (room temperature or cold) 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

Combine all ingredients in a salad bowl and serve with creamy Greek yogurt maple Dijon dressing.

Creamy Greek yogurt maple Dijon dressing n n n n n n

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar 2 tablespoons real maple syrup 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Add additional mayonnaise to taste.

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 9

Foolproof roasted chicken Start to finish: 1 hour, 15 minutes

n One 3-pound roasting chicken, rinsed and patted dry, neck and giblets reserved n 1 teaspoon kosher salt n 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper n 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, thyme or other savory leaves n 3 garlic cloves: 1 peeled and crushed, 2 lightly smashed n 1 large lemon, washed n 2 medium carrots, coarsely chopped n 2 shallots, peeled, and cut in half lengthwise n 3 sprigs thyme n 1/4 cup dry white wine or Madeira, or a mixture of the two

Preheat oven to 350 F. Place a small piece of foil just large enough to cover the chicken’s breast in a roasting pan; brush it with a little oil. Set aside.

With a thin, sharp knife, cut the excess fat from the neck and hind cavity of the chicken and discard. Sprinkle the chicken evenly inside and out with salt and pepper, rubbing it into skin. Stuff the herb leaves and the crushed garlic clove into the cavity. Prick the lemon about 25 times each with a toothpick or skewer. Stuff it into the cavity of the chicken. Using toothpicks or trussing needles, pin the neck and hind cavities closed.

Place the chicken breast down over the oiled piece of foil in the roasting pan. Nestle the neck, giblets, carrot, shallot, smashed garlic cloves and thyme around the chicken. Roast for 15 minutes.

Turn the bird breast up and carefully peel off the foil, taking care not to rip the skin; discard. Roast 20 minutes longer, then increase the oven temperature to 400 F. Roast the chicken 20 to 25 minutes longer, until the skin is brown and crisp and the juices run clear when the leg is pricked with a kitchen fork. An instant read thermometer inserted in the breast should read 150 F. Note: if using a larger chicken, cooking time must be increased.

Remove the toothpick from hind end. Lift the chicken with two wooden spoons and tilt it slightly so the juices run out of the cavity into pan. Place the chicken on a platter and keep warm.

Pour the pan juices into a small measuring cup. Let settle 3 to 4

minutes, then carefully skim the fat off the surface with a tablespoon.

Pour the juices back into the roasting pan set over moderate heat.

Add the wine and simmer, stirring to dissolve any browned bits on the bottom of the pan, about 5 minutes until the alcohol has cooked off. Skim off any fat or scum that rises to the surface. Strain the sauce into a small bowl, discard the neck and giblets and taste for seasoning.

You will have about 1/2 cup of flavorful, natural juices.

Carve the chicken, dividing it into four equal portions. Pour any juices that have collected on plate into the sauce. For a lemony sauce, squeeze the lemon into the pan juices. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the pan juices over each portion of chicken.

Foley • 251.987.5129 — Orange Beach • 251.965.5129 New Years Eve Celebration

$60/ticket Entertainment by HotWire/ Dinner/Hors D'oeuvres all night/Champagne Toast at midnight/party favors!

Space is limited 251.987.5129

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We cater!

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Waterfront Dining in Orange Beach

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

10 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Maple cheesecake with roasted pears

Start to finish: 3 hours, 30 minutes (30 minutes active) n 2 8-ounce bars cream cheese, room temperature n 1/2 cup pure maple syrup n 1 cup cold heavy cream n 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar n 1 easy press-in pie crust (recipe below), made in a 9-inch springform pan n Nonstick cooking spray n 2 medium pears, such as Bosc or Bartlett, sliced lengthwise 1/8 inch thick

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese on high until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 1/2 cup maple syrup; beat until smooth. In a medium bowl, beat cream and sugar on high until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes. With a rubber spatula, stir about onethird the whipped cream into cream cheese mixture, then fold in remainder. Transfer to crust and refrigerate until firm, 3 hours (or up to 1 day).

Preheat oven to 450 F. Coat a parchmentlined rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange pear slices in a single layer on sheet and brush with 2 tablespoons maple

syrup. Roast until pears are soft, 15 minutes, checking frequently to make sure the pears do not burn.

Remove from oven and heat broiler. Brush pears with 2 tablespoons maple syrup and broil until browned in spots, about 4 minutes, rotating sheet frequently. Let cool. To serve, arrange pear slices, overlapping slightly, on cheesecake.

Easy press-in pie crust n 6 ounces cookies (about 12 graham crackers, 46 vanilla wafers, or 30 chocolate wafers) n 3 tablespoons sugar n 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt n 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a food processor, pulse cookies until finely ground (you should have about 1 1/2 cups). Add sugar, salt and butter, and pulse until combined.

Firmly press crumb mixture into bottom and up sides of a 9-inch pie plate. (If using a springform pan, press crumbs halfway up sides) Bake until crust is dry and set, about 12 minutes. Let cool completely in plate on a wire rack before filling.

Ca We te r!

Magnolia Blossom Café

22667 Hwy 59 So., Robertsdale, AL 36567 Phone/Fax

251-945-2202

HRS: Breakfast & Lunch 7 Days A Week Sat. - Wed. 7am - 3pm • Thurs. & Fri. 7am - 9pm

Join Us On Thanksgiving Day

FISH SERVED EVERY FRIDAY Fresh Sandwiches & Panini

Made With Premium Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese

Donuts, Twists & Cinnamon Rolls Desserts Made Daily!

Now Serving 8 Flavors of Ice Cream

Shakes, Malts, Banana Splits, Homemade Brownie Sundaes and “Pucker Up” Lemon Square Dessert

19452 Scenic Hwy. 98 • Fairhope

Tues-Sat 7am-6pm • Sun 7am-2pm Dine In or Take Out--We Deliver 251-517-0622 • www.TwoSistersBakeryandDeli.com

for

Thanksgiving Lunch Thursday, November 27th 10am-3pm Reservations Appreciated For Groups of 6 or More We Will Close Thursday Evening & Friday, Nov. 28th.

Reopen Saturday with Regular Schedule.

“Happy Thanksgiving”

AIMING AND ANGLING

Hunting and fishing with disabilities

By Lindsay Schumacher info@linzoutloud.com

her ac

how to apply for the hunting trail n Request application by mail:

Wildlife Section

64 N. Union St.

Montgomery, AL 36130

n Call 334-242-3469

BUY

SELL

TRADE

The Hunter’s Headquarters Great selection of

GUNS & CAMO CLOTHING And Don’t Forget To Check Out Our Scopes, Ammo, Bows and Arrows, Knives And Much More Dealer For

say Sch um Lind

Alabama is home to some of the best recreational hunting and fishing opportunities. Now these outdoor activities have become much more accessible for everyone who lives here. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries recently partnered with numerous sponsors to establish the Alabama Hunting and Fishing Trail for People with Physical Disabilities; a network of public and private recreational sites throughout the state providing accessible fishing, shooting and hunting opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. In order to participate in the hunting trail, hunters must preregister. There are no such requirements for the fishing and shooting facilities. Participants are allowed to bring a guest with them to all locations. (Guests may utilize the shooting and fishing trail but only accompany on the hunting trail.) All users must be properly licensed and abide by regulations governing the particular outdoor sport in which they are participating. For more information on the Alabama Hunting and Fishing Trail for People with Physical Disabilities, contact the Alabama Department of Conservation at 1-800-262-3151 or visit OutdoorAlabama.com.

FIREARMS

1050 S. Hickory, Loxley, AL • 251.964.5839 —Hwy. 59 N., Foley, AL • 251.943.5834

12 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

WHERE TO GO

Coastal Christmas

By John Mullen

jmullen@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

If you can’t find something to get you into the Christmas spirit, then you must not be looking very hard.

The Coastal Alabama Business Chamber has a bountiful calendar of events, many going on already, and they will continue right through the New Year’s celebration.

Merry Market Unique gifts and arts and crafts expo.

WHERE: Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf WHEN: Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 – 13 COST: Free admission

Breakfast with Santa Enjoy breakfast with sausage, bacon, eggs and pancakes before having pictures taken with Santa.

WHERE: Erie Meyer Civic Center WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 20, at 8 a.m.

COST: $5 per person; children under 3 are free

Christmas with the Nelsons Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, sons of legendary 1960s singing star Ricky Nelson, will perform Christmas classics.

WHERE: Erie Meyer Civic Center WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, at 6:30 p.m.

COST: Free admission; free tickets available at the Activity Center box office, 260 Clubhouse Drive, Gulf Shores

Christmas with Aaron Neville A special performance by Aaron Neville and his quintet.

WHERE: Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 3, doors open at 5 p.m.

COST: $50-125; limited number of tickets available; purchase online at AlabamaCoastalChristmas.com

Gulf Shores Christmas parade Dozens of lighted floats will make their way from Clubhouse Drive to the Public Beach where Santa will set up shop in his custom sleigh. There will be a tree lighting, holiday treats, arts and crafts and other activities.

WHERE: Erie Meyer Civic Center WHEN: Friday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m.

COST: Free to attend

Christmas Lighted Boat Parade From LuLu’s to Zeke’s with viewing opportunites all along the Intracoastal Waterway and The Wharf and Waterfront Park in Orange Beach and everywhere in between.

WHERE: Starts at LuLu’s and ends at Zeke’s Marina WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 13, starts at 5:30 p.m.

COST: Free to watch

Holiday Ice Skating at The Wharf Skate on real ice in a festive holiday setting.

WHERE: The Wharf WHEN: Friday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Jan. 4 COST: $10 per skate session, $12 per skate session and Ferris wheel ride combo

if you go These are just the highlights. In between all of those events are various Santa sightings – he’ll drop from the sky at the FloraBama on Dec. 13, light and decoration contests, concerts and other special events.

FIND OUT MORE: AlabamaCoastalChristmas.com

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

14 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

FAMILY FUN

Thanksgiving

Kid-friendly

RECIPES

This Thanksgiving, get your whole family involved in preparing a great meal. Here are three fun and easy recipes your kids will love to make and eat.

Turkey muffins

c Mann Eri

By Eric Mann emann@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Courtesy of Parenting.com What you need: pumpkin muffins, red and green apple slices, slivered carrots, grapes, squeezable icing How you make them: From each apple, cut a slice from the side of the apple. Set flat and cut squared-off, tapered feathers. Cut a small beak from a thin slice of carrot. Make a slit in the end of a green grape and dab off excess moisture. Insert beak into grape. Poke small ends of feathers into muffin and set head on muffin, resting on the muffin paper. Once assembled, add tiny dot eyes with icing.

Acorn treats

Courtesy of Taste of Home What you need: 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, 48 Hershey kisses, 48 Nutter Butter bites How you make them: In a microwave, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Spread the flat side of each kiss with a small amount of melted chocolate; immediately attach each to a cookie. Cut a small hole in the corner of a pastry or plastic bag; insert a small round tip. Fill with remaining melted chocolate. Pipe a stem onto each acorn. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets; refrigerate until set. Store in an airtight container. This recipe makes four dozen treats.

Crinkle cut carrot fries

What you need: sliced carrots, salt, olive oil How you make them: Slice carrots into 1/2-inch-wide sticks with a crinkle cutter, if possible. Toss with olive oil and salt.

Bake until crisp.

Happy

Thanksgiving Have a Safe and Thankful Holiday!

City Of

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 15

the buzz on the coast

Tag your event photos with @GulfCoastBuzz on Facebook.

14 DAYS

Compiled by Allison Woodham Email calendar items to awoodham@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Your guide to fun, food and entertainment ONGOING Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market I Fridays, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; County Road 20, Foley I Free admission I CoastalAlabamaMarket.com; 251-943-1545 Dance Night at the Gallery Dances taught are East Coast Swing, Foxtrot, Merengue, Mambo, Cha Cha, Rumba, Shag, Hustle, Waltz and Tango.

Singles are welcome as beginners, intermediate and advanced students.

I Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.; Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Gallery, Gulf Shores I $12 I 251-948-2627; GulfCoastArtsAlliance@gmail.com

Shop for unique treasures at St. Paul’s Holiday Shoppe and Preview Gala Nov. 21 – 23.

Safe Harbor Financial

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As heard on

As Published In

uting Contrib

JIM BYRD

Author

Financial Advisor 32 Years of Experience As seen on

Visit our website www.safeharfin.com to pre-register and reserve your seat for an upcoming seminar.

as well as major online media outlets

251-625-1226

9056 Merritt Lane • Daphne, AL • Toll Free 877-251-1984 Investment Advisory Services offered on a fee basis through Global Financial Capitol, LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Only Jim Byrd, a licensed insurance professional and Investment Advisor, is able to provide investment advice.

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

16 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

the buzz on the coast FRIDAY, NOV. 21 Downtown Fairhope Holiday Stroll For details, see pg. 30 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Annual Holiday Shoppe and Preview Gala Come and shop beautiful new and gently used treasures in antiques/ collectibles, jewelry, furniture, framed art, holiday and home decor, religious items and women/ men/children’s boutiques. Proceeds go to local service organizations and local charities.

I Nov. 21 – 23; Friday, 6 – 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Life Center, Daphne I Friday preview night, $20; Saturday and Sunday, free admission and parking I 251-626-6102; 251-752-1667; SusanWhatley@hotmail.com

Turn your bag of old Mardi Gras beads into jewelry, decorations, bowls and more on Nov. 22 with Dorie Parsons.

Art Soup Include your choice of hand-crafted bowl; soups made by three local restaurants and live music.

Fundraiser for 15 Place.

I 6 – 9 p.m.; Space 301, Mobile I $40 I 15Place.org Central Baldwin Relay for Life Support a relay for life team, pick your favorite chili and donate to a good cause.

I 6 – 10 p.m.; Honeybee Park, Robertsdale I Free admission; $5 per bowl to participate, donations accepted I 251-947-7378; RelayForLife. org/centralbaldwin; leedrugstore@gmail.com

SATURDAY, NOV. 22 Family Farm Day For details, see pg. 24 Fifth annual Holiday Movie in the Streets For details, see pg. 30

Willow Farms Fall Festival For details, see pg. 21 Annual Christmas Bazaar It will feature a bake sale, arts and crafts, wood carvings and other unique items. A “Make Your Own Gingerbread House” area will be available for children, as well as our Coffee Shoppe, which will serve hot drinks and sweet rolls and monkey bread. Proceeds will be matched

by Thrivent Financial and will benefit the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League.

I 8 a.m. – noon; Redeemer Lutheran Church; Fairhope I kpclay@bellsouth.net; 251-928-9047 Eighth annual Fall Festival Delicious homemade baked goods and food items are great for gifts. They include jams, pickles, salsa, cakes and pies to make your Thanksgiving special. This year you’ll see unique gift baskets, Christmas tree skirts, scarves, college and holiday pillow cases, jewelry and other handcrafted items.

I 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.; St. Francis at the Point Anglican Church, Point Clear I StFrancisAtThePoint.org; 251-928-1255 Holiday Decorations from Mardi Gras Beads Dorie Parsons will teach how to turn that bag of Mardi Gras beads into glittering holiday decorations, bowls, garland, jewelry and tiny animals.

I 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.; Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Gallery, Gulf Shores I $12 I 251-948-2627; gulfcoastartsalliance@gmail.com

SUNDAY, NOV. 23 Christmas Open House For details, see pg. 30

Children’s Dance Theatre presents “Jack and the Beanstalk” Part of Christmas Open House in Fairhope.

I 4:30 p.m.; Fairhope Civic Center I CreativeOutletDance.com; 251-928-9511

THURSDAY, NOV. 27 Flora-Bama Annual Thanksgiving Potluck For details, see pg. 25 The Hangout Thanksgiving Buffet For details, see pg. 25 Turkey on the Train at Derailed Diner For a unique Thanksgiving sure to please train lovers of all ages, climb aboard the Derailed Diner’s 1920s era dining car. Chef Rick will be preparing a delicious Thanksgiving dinner of turkey with dressing and gravy, sweet potato casserole, two sides, soft drink and dessert. Or call ahead for us to prepare your meal, then drop by to pick up your Turkey-To-Go. I 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Derailed Diner, Robertsdale I Adults, $14.99; children under 12, $5.99 I 251-960-1152

FRIDAY, NOV. 28 Coastal Christmas Celebration For details, see pg. 12

SATURDAY, NOV. 29 Kaiser Realty by Wyndham Vacation Rentals Coastal Half-Marathon If the most popular recipe this Thanksgiving is family, food, sports and great shopping deals, the Alabama Gulf Coast is cooking up the perfect holiday weekend.

I Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail; Orange Beach I Half-marathon:

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Participate or watch the halfmarathon runners at the Wyndham Vacation Rentals Coastal HalfMarathon on Saturday, Nov. 29.

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 17

Black Friday

Shop Small Saturday at

individuals, $80; two-person relay, $100; four-person relay, $120; 5K, $35; fun run, $20 Magic Christmas in Lights Enjoy one of the most popular holiday events in the Southeast. Stroll through the gardens with more than three million twinkling lights in over 835 custom designed set pieces in 12 scenes.

I Through Jan. 3, 2015 (closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1); Bellingrath Gardens and Home, Theodore I Bellingrath.org; 251 973-2217

SUNDAY, NOV. 30 Powerman Duathlon This is a run-bike-run event in which participants will run through the trails at the Graham Creek Nature Preserve, bike along the Foley Beach Express and then run through Graham Creek to the finish line. This is the last race to qualify for the Powerman USA National Championship in Jupiter, Florida. Spectators are welcome.

I Graham Creek Nature Preserve; Foley

I PowermanUSA.org

THURSDAY, DEC. 4 ESCC Winter Concerts For details, see pg. 23 Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library Christmas Concert For details, see pg. 20 Seventh annual A Chocolate Affair An evening filled with scrumptious desserts and hors d’oeuvres donated by local restaurants, great music and a silent auction. Money raised will provide assistance to homeless families and overall operation of Family Promise.

I 6 – 9 p.m.; Foley Civic Center I $25 I FamilyPromiseBC.org; 251-947-5641

FRIDAY, DEC. 5 First Friday Dinner Walk Walk by many beautifully decorated homes for the holiday season through Gulf Breeze before going to dinner.

The walk will go through the Plantation Hill area to view the Christmas lights.

Afterward everyone will eat dinner at Rotolo’s.

I 6 – 8 p.m.; Publix parking lot, Gulf Breeze I 850-932-0125 “Cinderella” The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers and Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance.

I Dec. 5, 6; 7:30 p.m.; South Baldwin Community Theatre, Gulf Shores I Adults, $18; students, $15 I SBCT.biz; 251-968-6721 Jeanne Robertson “FABulously Funny” Tour An overnight success nearly half a century in the making, Robertson keeps audiences rolling on the floor with laughter.

At 70 years young, this former Miss North Carolina stands at 6 feet, 2 inches tall and has a personality, heart and sense of humor that soar just as high.

I 8 p.m.; Pensacola Saenger Theatre I Tickets start at $38 I TicketMaster.com; 800-745-3000

With a large variety of stores we have something for everyone on your list.

Target opens on Thursday November 27th at 6pm.

Most others are opening 7am to 9 pm on Black Friday.

Here are just a few of the specials

Too Hot Mama’s -- 20% off entire store Friday-Sunday plus 75% swimwear

SunRays -- 15% off any

Prescription Costa’s Free T Shirt & Tumbler with any Costa purchase.

50% off any Kaenon Sunglasses in stock.

Beach House Boutique -Sales throughout the store.

Join us for Shop Small Saturday (AME) Accessories Galore -- New

Christmas Jewelry, Sparkly Bracelets, Long Sleeve Holiday Shirts by Simple Southern Tired of shopping?

We have nine different options for food, drink and fun.

We are your one-stop holiday experience!

3800 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251-968-3638

18 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

CHRISTMAS on the coast North Baldwin

Pictured with Santa is Hope Bates at Perdido School.

Bay Minette North Baldwin Express Christmas Tree Lighting Attendees will begin picking up a passport at the fitness center. They will then take a journey through fun stations around North Baldwin Infirmary campus. Be on the lookout for treats. Local choirs will be performing. Lighting of the tree on the hospital lawn; grand prize giveaway.

I Thursday, Dec. 4; 5 – 7 p.m.; North Baldwin Infirmary perdido Breakfast with Santa and Christmas Shop Perdido School would like to invite everyone to come shop merchandise such as arts and crafts and other items of interest. Breakfast with Santa will be from 8 – 10 a.m. in the cafeteria. Don’t forget to bring your camera. The Scholastic Book Fair will also be available in the lobby of the gym for your shopping convenience. Bring your Christmas list and check it twice.

I Saturday, Dec. 6; 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Perdido School Gym Stockton Christmas on the River Boat parade with Santa arriving by boat. Donations will benefit the North Baldwin Animal Shelter. Tenants will be cooking chili to serve, hot chocolate and coffee.

I Saturday, Dec. 6; 4 - 8 p.m.

I Matthews Landing/ Lower Bryant Landing

Eastern Shore Daphne Tree lighting and open house I Thursday, Dec. 4; Daphne City Hall Fairhope Fairhope Magical Christmas Parade I Friday, Dec. 5; 7 p.m.; Morphy and Section Street, down

Section to Oak Street Pictures with Santa Santa will be downtown available for children to visit. Parents may bring cameras.

I Saturday, Dec. 6; 10a .m. – noon; Fairhope Museum of History Eastern Shore Choral Socety Christmas Concert I Thursday, Dec. 4; 7:30 p.m.; Fairhope United Methodist Church I Adults, $15; students K-12, free Point Clear Visit with Santa at the Grand Hotel Enjoy an appetizing breakfast buffet at the Grand’s Four Diamond restaurant prior to a visit with Santa. Santa will be visiting 8 – 10 a.m. Reservations are required.

I Saturdays, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6; 6:30 – 10:30 a.m.; the Grand Hotel Dining Room

Gingerbread Village at the Grand Hotel The magnificent Gingerbread Village features a massive replica of the Grand Hotel. The Grand gingerbread masterpiece will be unveiled with the rest of the dazzling décor at the hotel, including the spectacular Christmas trees and hundreds of poinsettias.

I Friday, Nov. 28; the Grand Hotel Spanish Fort Spanish Fort Christmas Parade I Saturday, Dec. 6; 9 a.m.; Eastern Shore Centre

Central Baldwin Robertsdale Robertsdale Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park I Saturday, Dec. 6; 6:30 p.m.; parade route starts at Robertsdale High School Silverhill Silverhill Christmas Parade I Friday, Dec. 5; 6:30 p.m.; town of Silverhill

The Artic Express Take the Arctic Express to the North Pole and visit Santa Claus. View over 1 million lights and get a free toy with paid admission of $15.

I Friday, Saturday and Sundays; Friday, Nov. 28 – Saturday, Dec. 15; 3 – 9 p.m.; Wales West RV Park and Light Railway

South Baldwin Bon Secour Christmas Open House Live music by Jam N Folks Dulcimer Group, Tyler Champion and Lady Banjo and Mr. Harp. Featuring Meme Swift’s Seafood Gumbo; $15.

I Saturday, Dec. 6; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Swift-Coles Historic Home Foley Marjorie Snook’s decorated home Marjorie Snook elaborately decorates her Victorian home. Families are welcome to drive by the house anytime during the season.

I Friday, Nov. 28 – Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015; George Younce Road

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 19

CHRISTMAS on the coast Foley Christmas in the Park Carol-singing, cocoa-sipping, Santa and lighting of the Christmas tree; free cocoa and snacks for all.

I Friday, Dec. 5; 6 p.m.; Heritage Park “Let it Snow” After the Foley Christmas parade enjoy live musical performances, listen to Mrs. Claus tell stories, arts and crafts in the Children’s Village and play in the snow. Concessions sold on site.

I Saturday, Dec. 6; 11 a.m.; Heritage Park Coastal Chorale Christmas Show Coastal Chorale will perform “Joyful Jingles,” including many holiday favorites.

I Saturday, Dec. 6; 3 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 7; 3 p.m.; Foley Civic Center Trim-A-Tree At the 47th annual Trim-A-Tree celebration, buy locally made arts and crafts items for Christmas.

I Friday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Dec. 21; Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Tanger Outlets

Orange Beach Christmas Tree Lighting I Tuesday, Dec. 2; 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.; The Wharf

Santa Claus waves from a boat at the lighted boat parade in Gulf Shores.

Horse and Carriage Rides at The Wharf Enjoy a magical horse and carriage ride through a winter wonderland.

I Tuesday, Dec. 2 – Sunday, Dec. 21; The Wharf Mystical Order of Mirams’ Taste of the Islands Try food from more than 35 different restaurants while raising funds for local charities, during The Mystical Order of Mirams’ Taste of the Islands. Tickets are $50.

I Friday, Dec. 5; 6 p.m.; Orange Beach Event Center, The Wharf Light up the Arts and Crafts Stroll I Friday, Dec. 5; 5 – 8 p.m.; Coastal Arts Center and other city facilities

john mullen / staff

Gulf Shores Gulf Shores’ Lighted Christmas Parade and Beach Celebration Lighted floats from around the region.

I Friday, Dec. 5; 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.; Highway 59 from Clubhouse Drive to Gulf Shores Public Beach Orange Beach Ice Skating at The Wharf Ice skating in a festive holiday setting with real ice.

I Friday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Jan. 4; The Wharf Photos with Santa Claus I Saturday, Nov. 29 – Sunday, Dec. 21; The Wharf

Santa Claus brings a taste of the North Pole to Foley last year as he visits with youngsters during last year’s “Christmas in the Park” in Foley, the city’s launch of the holiday season. cathy higgins / staff

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

20 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

WHERE TO GO

rary

erdale Lib m m u S t fi e n e b to rt e c ristmas con

Annual Ch

By Cathy Higgins

onlooker@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

T

he Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library in Summerdale will present its second annual Christmas Concert on Thursday, Dec. 4.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and the performance starts at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be available at intermission.

Tickets proceeds will benefit the Summerdale library.

This year’s concert will feature acclaimed Pensacola vocal duo Howard Reddy, Irish-born baritone, and mezzo soprano Hanan Tarabay Reddy; Victor Andzulis, multi-talented member of the Pensacola

Symphony Orchestra and the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra; and his wife, Megan Andzulis, multiple award-winning pianist and flutist. They will perform Christmas selections on the piano, flute, viola and violin as well as vocal solos and duets.

if you go WHAT: Marjorie Snook Christmas Concert WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 4; 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Summerdale Municipal Complex, 502 E. Lee St., Summerdale COST: $10, adults; $5 students; available at the Summerdale Library, Summerdale Municipal Complex and the Summerdale branch of United Bank FIND OUT MORE: Call Norma Giles at 251-978-3245

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 21

WHERE TO GO

Raise money for animal rescue at Willow Farms Fall Festival

By John Underwood independent@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

W

illow Farms Animal Rescue in Loxley will host a fall festival beginning at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 at the farm in Loxley.

The event, which started last year as Equine Fun Day held at the Baldwin County Fairgrounds in Robertsdale, will serve as a fundraiser for the care and upkeep of rescue animals.

The farm currently houses about 30 animals, including four recent rescues, said owner Janet Hein, but has housed as many as 44 in the past. The farm has been designated as a nonprofit for the past eight years.

“We just want this to be a fun event with all sorts of activities and games for children,” Hein said. “They'll have a chance to explore the farm and see the horses that we care for here.”

Steve Foley’s Pony Express will provide a variety of activities, including a petting zoo and train rides.

There will also be pony rides and a variety of games for children.

A variety of food and crafts vendors will also be participating in the event, Hein said. Anyone is welcome to come and set up a booth for $40.

Admission to the event is free and everyone is welcome to donate to Willow Farms. Proceeds from the event will go toward getting caught up with horse feed charges.

Anyone wishing to participate in the event can contact Hein at 251-9646031.

Tabitha Barnes of Semmes and Amelia Yoas of Silverhill get pony rides at last year’s fundraiser for Willow Farms Animal Rescue. This year’s event will be held at the farm in Loxley.

if you go WHAT: Willow Farms Fall Festival WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 22; 10 a.m.

WHERE: Willow Farms, 26149 County Road 49, Loxley COST: Admission is free. Donations are accepted. Vendor slots are available for $40.

WHO IT BENEFITS: Willow Farms Animal Rescue FIND OUT MORE: Contact Janet Hein, 251-964-6031; WillowFarms.org

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

between the pages

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014 Tell Cliff what you are reading at cmccollum@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Cliff McC o

22 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

Ruth Reichl trilogy

W

riting about food is difficult. Writing about food and keeping the reader interested is close to impossible.

However, in her trilogy of recipe-infused memoirs, former Gourmet editor and New York Times restaurant critic Ruth Reichl uses beautiful language and stark honesty to tell us the story of her life through events and the wonderful dishes that prove to be a Proustian madeleine for her memories.

In “Tender at the Bone,” we get the early years, her childhood with a difficult mother and a disinterested father, boarding school in French Canada and ends with her entering her “hippie commune” phase in Berkeley during its heyday.

In “Comfort Me With Apples,” marital infidel-

ity and a desire to grow as a food writer and critic drive her from her happy hippie home, sending her to San Francisco and the burgeoning culinary scene, with familiar faces like Wolfgang Puck to help her along the way.

In “Garlic and Sapphires,” Reichl ascends to the vaunted position of chief New York Times restaurant critic, fighting the food establishment and traditional New York tastes along the way.

More than anything, Reichl bares her soul throughout these books, leaving nothing unspoken and giving us a glimpse into her very being.

For the foodie in your life, for the lover of memoirs or for anyone who wants a good recipe for matzoh brei, pick up Reichl’s trilogy if you want to give a great Christmas present this year.

Visit Our New Store

“Five Star Liquidation” 413 SO. MCKENZIE ST., FOLEY

(Across from Regions Bank)

m llu

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 23

culturally speaking

The choir will perform music from across the ages at the Fairhope United Methodist Church Dec. 4 and 7.

Get in the holiday spirit at the ESCC Winter Concerts

T

he Eastern Shore Choral Society, under the direction of Mary Katherine Kilgore, will present their holiday concerts on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 3 p.m. at Fairhope United Methodist Church in Fairhope.

Their much anticipated concert will feature music from across the ages including “Gloria” by Randal Bass, “This Little Babe” from Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols,” “O Magnum Mysterium”

by Morten Laurdisen, choruses from Handel’s “Messiah,” “The Holly and the Ivy,” “Do You Hear What I Hear?” and a Christmas carol sing-along with audience participation.

About Eastern Shore Choral Society

ESCS is a nonprofit, all-volunteer chorus organization founded in 1992. They have performed in multiple locations in Europe and twice at Carnegie Hall. ESCS is dedicated to presenting programs of high quality vocal music for public entertainment and personal enrichment; promoting greater

appreciation and enjoyment of good music, both classical and modern, by the citizens in and around Baldwin County; joining with other such organizations to provide programs of educational or cultural benefit for the citizens in and around Baldwin County; and supporting middle and high school choral programs in Baldwin County Schools with financial contributions.

if you go WHAT: ESCC Winter Concerts WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 4; 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 7; 3 p.m.

WHERE: Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section St., Fairhope COST: $15; group discounts available; tickets can be purchased at the door, through a choral member or online FIND OUT MORE: ESCS.org; info@escs.org

Coastal Arts Center Of Orange Beach

Campus Hours: M-F 10a m– Sat 10am 4pm – 2pm

Hot Shop Blowout

December 18 5-7pm

See us at Merry Market December 12th & 13th!

Hot Christmas gifts, hot chocolate & hot glass!

FREE EVENT

Glass & Clay Artist Demonstrations Make-Your-Own classes CoastalArtsCenter.com

26389 Canal Rd. • Orange Beach, AL 251-981-ARTS (2787)

WHERE TO GO

john underwood / staff

Young Larz Lager of Fairhope gets an assist from his mother Vicki at last year’s Family Farm Day held at Humming Star Alpacas in Silverhill.

Family Farm Day showcases alpacas, other farm products

By John Underwood independent@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

W

hen most people think of wool, they probably think of sheep. One farm in Baldwin County is inviting residents to think a little differently.

On Saturday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Humming Star Alpacas in Silverhill will host its fourth annual Family Farm Day. Andy and Cheryl Bowen started Humming Star Alpacas in 2007, according to their website, and the Family Farm Day is a way, not only to promote wool products produced by the farm, but to also support other farmers and vendors.

“It's just a nice community get-together,” Cheryl Bowen said. “The last couple of years we've had a great turnout and the weather was nice and this year we're hoping that the rain will hold off and we'll have another great day.”

The event will feature a variety of demonstrations, including old-fashioned spinning wheels and utilizing

various products made from alpaca fleece.

The event will also showcase various products, including wax candles, herbal lotions and other products, along with artwork for sale in the farm’s own Christmas Village.

A variety of entertainment will also be provided for the event.

Bowen said the farm is also open year-round for demonstrations and school field trips.

if you go WHAT: Family Farm Day WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 22; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Humming Star Alpacas, 19700 Blueberry Lane, Silverhill COST: $5 per car FIND OUT MORE: HummingStarAlpacas.com; 251-214-8224; hsalpaca@centurylink.net

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 25

INGERSOLL’S Air Conditioning & Heating

WHERE TO GO

Baldwin County’s Top Choice Since 1967

No hassle

Thanksgiving

By John Mullen jmullen@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

D

on’t want to cook for days for the family who’ll just snooze in front of the television while you are cleaning up the mess after the feast?

Two of the iconic entertainment venues on the Gulf Coast, the FloraBama Lounge and Package Store and The Hangout, are ready to help out this Thanksgiving.

Year round there’s no better place to relax than the Flora-Bama Lounge and Package Store on the Alabama Gulf Coast — and that won’t change just because it’s Thanksgiving.

The Flora-Bama is known for its annual events from the Mullet Toss to Polar Bear Dip to special concerts and athletic feats of strength like triathlons and foot races.

Count holiday potlucks among those as well. With the Flora-Bama’s help, you can cook one dish to share and eat the bar’s turkey, ham and dressing. The honky tonk does the same on Christmas.

And if one dish is too many to cook, let The Hangout do the entire meal for you. The sprawling entertainment complex will have a buffet full of the traditional foods with prices for adults and children.

Thanksgiving potluck

Thanksgiving buffet

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 27 WHERE: Flora-Bama Lounge and Package Store, Perdido Key COST: Bring a covered dish FIND OUT MORE: Florabama.com

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 27 WHERE: The Hangout, Gulf Shores COST: Adults, $24.95; Children 6 – 10, $12.99; Under 6, free FIND OUT MORE: TheHangout.com

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GulfCoastNewsToday.com

26 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

live local music Karaoke

Daphne Top of the Bay Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 9 p.m.

Fairhope Gambino’s Italian Grill Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m.

Foley Good Time Charlies every Tuesday at 10 p.m.

The Office Lounge every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Ft. Morgan Tacky Jacks every Thursday and Saturday at 9 p.m.

Gulf Shores Behind the Pines Bar & Grill every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Mudbugs Thursday – Saturday at 8 p.m.

Pink Pony Pub every night at 9 p.m.

Tacky Jacks every Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

Willie Sugarcapps will perform at the Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm on Sunday, Nov. 23.

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

Compiled by Destiny Brown Email dbrown@gulfcoastnewspapers.com to update or add listings.

Orange Beach Island Time Daiquiri Bar every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Live Bait every night at 8 p.m.

Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar every Thursday at 8:30 p.m.

The Undertow Wednesday – Friday at 9:30 p.m.

Perdido Key Happy Harbor on the Line every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Open Mic

Fairhope American Legion 199 open guitar jams every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.

The Gumbo Shack every Thursday at 6 p.m.

Plow every other Tuesday Foley The Office Lounge every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Gulf Shores Tacky Jacks every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.

Orange Beach Happy Harbor the Mothership every Monday at 6 p.m.

Island Time Daiquiri Bar Tuesday with Brittany Bell at 9 p.m.

Live Bait every Sunday at 8 p.m.

Perdido Key Flora-Bama every Monday at 6 p.m.

Trivia

Daphne Moe’s Bar B Que every Wednesday at 10 p.m.

Fairhope Fairhope Brewing Company every Thursday Ravenite Pizzeria Trivia every Tuesday, Sports Trivia every

STAY INFORMED

WHEN STORMS THREATEN TO HEAD OUR WAY If hurricanes, storms, tornadoes or heavy rains threaten to head towards Baldwin County, stay informed.

FOR CONSTANT UPDATES. www.gulfcoastnewstoday.com Facebook: Gulf Coast Newspapers Twitter: @gcntoday

CONTINUOUS WEATHER COVERAGE AND UPDATES. Sunny 105.7 F.M., The Voice of Paradise

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 27

live local music Wednesday Foley Good Time Charlies everyday at 10 p.m.

The Office Lounge every Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar every Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 21

Daphne Main Street Cigar Lounge Eric Erdman at 8 p.m.

Moe’s Original Bar B Que Dusty Sanderson at 8 p.m.

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Gretsch Lyles and The Modern Eldorados The Gumbo Shack Melissa Joiner Windmill Market Ground Level Fall at 6 p.m.

Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Lisa Zanghi at 6 p.m.

LuLu’s Kyle and Karl Papa Rocco’s Brian and Charles Orange Beach Pleasure Island Tiki Bar Al and Cathy Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Adam Holt Band Perdido Key Flora-Bama J Hawkins Duo / Jezebel’s Chill’n / LeaAnne Creswell Trio / Foxy Iguanas / Smokin’ Elvis Spanish Fort

Bluegill Restaurant Jeri Felix’s Fish Camp Tim Kinsey and Dale Drinkard at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 22

Daphne Main Street Cigar Lounge Kyle and Karl at 8 p.m.

Moe’s Original Bar B Que Viridian Sons Fairhope Windmill Market Erik and Elise Gulf Shores LuLu’s Sugarcane Jane Papa Rocco’s Brian and Charles Orange Beach Flipper’s Lisa Zanghi at 7:30 p.m.

Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Adam Holt Band Perdido Key Flora-Bama Jezebel’s Chill’n / LeaAnne Creswell Trio / Hart Break Hill / Lee Yankie and the Hellz Yeahs Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Matt and Sherry Neese Felix’s Fish Camp Jimmy Lumpkin at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 23

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Lisa Zanghi at 11:30 a.m.

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Greg Brown Papa Rocco’s Brian and Charles

Jack Robertson aka “Big Earl” will perform at the Flora-Bama Nov. 28 and 29.

Orange Beach Cobalts Coffee, Black Cosmo’s Brittany Bell Perdido Key Flora-Bama J Hawkins Duo / Perdido Brothers / Shawna P. and Adam Tyler Brown Silverhill The Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Willie Sugarcapps with Lauren Murphy Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Adam Holt Band Felix’s Fish Camp Brandon Bailey at noon

BALDWIN COUNTY IS BUZZING WITH HOLIDAY EVENTS! BE IN THE KNOW...

READ THE

gulf coast

Find even more festive fun, food and entertainment in our next issue which will be on newstands Dec. 5.

Monday, Nov. 24

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Brent Burns Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi Perdido Key Flora-Bama Elaine Petty Spanish Fort Felix’s Fish Camp Greg Brown at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 25

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Jimmy Lumpkin Perdido Key Flora-Bama Perdido Brothers / Logan Spicer Duo Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Tim Kinsey Felix’s Fish Camp Brandon

28 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

live local music Bailey at 6:30 p.m.

See Sugarcane Jane at LuLu’s Nov. 22 and 29 then at the Windmill Market Dec. 2.

Wednesday, Nov. 26

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Jeri Orange Beach Pleasure Island Tiki Bar Johnny B Perdido Key Flora-Bama Neil Dover / Big Muddy / Smokin’ Elvis Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Ross +1 Felix’s Fish Camp Bryant Gilley at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 27

Gulf Shores Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer and Mark LaBorde Perdido Key Flora-Bama J Hawkins Duo / Bo Roberts, Mark Sherrill, Chris Newbury and Friends / Hung Jury / Smokin’ Elvis

Friday, Nov. 28

Daphne Main Street Cigar Lounge Harrison McInnis Moe’s Original Bar B Que Soulshine Gulf Shores Bill’s by the Beach Barstool Surfers LuLu’s Adam Holt Duo Papa Rocco’s Brian and Charles Orange Beach Happy Harbor the Mothership Jay Williams Band Pleasure Island Tiki Bar Al and Cathy Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Corey Cox Band Perdido Key Flora-Bama J Hawkins Duo / Jack Robertson Show / Jezebel’s Chill’n / Lee Yankie and the Hellz Yeahs / Hart Break Hill / Hung Jury Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Blind Dog Mike

Saturday, Nov. 29

Fairhope Windmill Market Bruce Jones Gulf Shores LuLu’s Sugarcane Jane Orange Beach Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Corey Cox Band Perdido Key Flora-Bama Jezebel’s Chill’n / Jack Robertson Show / Cat Rhoades and the Truth / Hurricane Warning / Mario Mena Band Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant River Dogs Felix’s Fish Camp Soulshine at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 30

Fairhope Old 27 Grill The Sound Carpenters Gulf Shores LuLu’s Greg Brown Orange Beach Happy Harbor the Mothership Adam Holt Perdido Key Flora-Bama Logan Spicer Duo Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Grayson Capps, Grace Askew, Nick Branch, Cary Hudson, Corky Hughes Spanish Fort

Felix’s Fish Camp Sarah Percy at noon

Monday, Dec. 1 Gulf Shores LuLu’s Brent Burns Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi

Tuesday, Dec. 2

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Jimmy Lumpkin

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Delta Reign Duo Spanish Fort Bluegill Restaurant Ross +1

Thursday, Dec. 4 Gulf Shores LuLu’s Adam Holt

Friday, Dec. 5

Daphne Main Street Cigar Lounge Robbie Sellers Fairhope Old 27 Grill Them Again Windmill Market Sugarcane Jane Gulf Shores Lulu’s Jeri Papa Rocco’s Brian and Charles Orange Beach Happy Harbor the

Mothership Jay Williams Band Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar Ty Bates

ONGOING

Fairhope Gambino’s Italian Grill Dueling Pianos every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Gulf Shores Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Robertsdale Magnolia Blossom Cafe live music every Friday night Silverhill The Porch live music every Saturday from 8 p.m.-midnight and Sunday from 4-7 p.m.

Wales West Live Bluegrass / Gospel every Tuesday

Regional Calendar

Mobile Saenger Theatre Friday, Dec. 5 Jerrod Niemann Soul Kitchen Saturday, Nov. 22 A Live One: Celebrating the Music of Phish Pensacola Saenger Theatre Friday, Nov. 28 Cirque Dreams Holidaze Friday, Dec. 5 Jeanne Robertson Vinyl Music Hall Saturday, Nov. 22 Eric Lindell

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

TASTINGS

Gulf Coast BUZZ n 29

WINES TO TRY:

Will you celebrate Erntedankfest with a glass of wine?

Jo jrobitaille@cainsgrocery.com

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serve a glass of wine with a large harvest dinner, right?

This year, as we give thanks, let’s offer up a toast with a couple of Germany’s classic wine choices — Riesling and Gewürztraminer. They are both aromatic and slightly spicy and right at home with sage-rubbed turkey. They are perfectly paired with stuffing and would make any Erntedankfest table complete.

Riesling is the most popular white grape variety from Germany. It is used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling wines and displays a flowery aroma and is highly acidic giving it excellent aging potential. In the cool climate of Germany, Rieslings tend to display apple and tree fruit notes.

Gewürztraminer literally means “spice traminer” or “perfumed traminer,” and should give a clue as to its flavor profile.

It is another white grape variety with high natural sugar and a showy bouquet of lychees, roses or passion fruit. Dry varieties often offer a slight spritz.

Valckenberg Riesling 2011 A medium dry crisp wine from Germany with fresh flavors of green apple, peach and tropical fruits balanced with mineral notes on the finish.

bitaille Ro

Beer/Wine Specialist at Cain’s Piggly Wiggly

n

Jon Robitaille

Riesling

common misconception is that Thanksgiving is strictly an American tradition, started in America and celebrated only in this country. The fact is — just like everything else the pilgrims brought over — the holiday has roots grounded in English tradition.

There are also Thanksgiving celebrations in Canada, Liberia, Granada and Norfolk Islands. Japan and Germany have similar celebrations and in Germany, it’s called Erntedankfest — the harvest festival of thanks.

Erntedankfest is primarily a rural and religious celebration, usually part of a church service. Just like Thanksgiving in America, it includes large harvest dinners and parades. And of course, one would

Gewürztraminer Starling Castle Gewürztraminer 2012 A medium sweet wine from Germany with flavors of pear, sweet oranges and cinnamon.

Breckenridge Vanilla Porter Nitro

By Scott Gentry gentrst@gmail.com

T

Scott G en

his past weekend I found myself in Pensacola looking for a place to share a pint with one of my best friends, Brian Arnberg.

Wanting to avoid the Friday night insanity that is every bar in downtown Pensacola, we made our way to the Hopjacks located on Nine Mile Road. While we were there I ordered the Vanilla Porter Nitro from Breckenridge Brewery in Colorado.

It turned out to be my lucky day, because this was one of the best porters I’ve ever had. It was perfectly black with a tan head. The malty bitterness was the highlight of the palette, with the sweetest suggestion of vanilla coming through.

One thing that makes this beer excellent is the fact that it is a nitro beer. This beer is carbonated with a combination of carbon dioxide and nitrogen,

which stands in contrast to most other beers that are only carbonated with carbon dioxide. The result is an incomparable mouthfeel; the nitrogen content makes this beer feel like liquid velvet going down.

It is also a beautiful beer, thanks to the nitrogen as well. Like draught Guinness, this beer exhibits the phenomenon of bubbles floating downward. This happens because nitrogen bubbles are so small they float upward in the very middle of the glass so quickly they set up a convective flow that forces the bubbles in the portion of the beer actually in contact with the glass to float down. We’re getting into fluid dynamics here, which is outside the realm of this article, so I’ll leave you with this: Google it.

try

30 n Gulf Coast BUZZ

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

WHERE TO GO

A trio of festive Fairhope events Christmas comes early this year in Fairhope, where the city is hosting a trio of events to get you and your family in the holiday spirit.

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Fairhope Holiday Stroll Nov. 21

Holiday Movie in the Streets Nov. 22

55th annual Christmas Open House Nov. 23

The Downtown Fairhope Holiday Stroll is Nov. 21 from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Downtown Fairhope Business Association invites the public to eat, drink and be merry as the city’s downtown stores and restaurants will be open for extended hours.

The Fairhope Welcome Center will provide guests with free hot chocolate and a reusable shopping tote.

The next night, Nov. 22, the city invites families to attend the fifth annual Holiday Movie in the Streets to watch at the corner of Section Street and Fairhope Avenue at 6:30 p.m. Families are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets from home, and children can wear their holiday pajamas. No alcoholic beverages will be allowed.

Admission is free to this fun, annual event.

Finally, on Nov. 23, the city invites the public to its 55th annual Christmas Open House event from 1 to 5 p.m., with live music, entertainment and refreshments at shops and restaurants all over downtown.

Nov. 21 – Dec. 4, 2014

GulfCoastNewsToday.com

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