Category Archives: 311 Fan Spotlights

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #429 – 5/6/24 – Daphne Lewis Stewart!

Welcome again my Excitable friends to another edition of the 311 Fan Spotlight! Let’s meet Daphne Lewis Stewart!

It was around the time that the Blue album came out that Daphne first heard 311 being played on the radio. “I immediately bought the album from BMG Music Service (who remembers that LOL) and became hooked. The heavy guitars drew me and the lyrics kept me coming back for more.”

While Daphne has been a fan since the early 90’s, she wasn’t able to see 311 live until 2007 in West Palm Beach, Florida. “I expected a typical concert where the band only plays their newer songs. I was already a HUGE fan but when they played Gap, which I was dying to hear live, I was blown away. I knew I was an Excitable for life!” Show count for her is somewhere in the 50’s which includes five 311 Day events, two cruises and Pow Wow.

While it’s hard to pick a favorite of those shows, Daphne said 311 Day 2014 probably takes it. “It was my first 311 day and my first event with other Excitables. I had been going to shows for years – even went to Pow Wow – but somehow I never connected with the community. I stayed in a house with about 20 other Excitables and met my best friend Kala Parisi! I still get chills listening to Use of Time with the Unity Orchestra. I can remember how I felt as the strings swelled all around me – such euphoria!”

The song “I’ll Be Here Awhile” has been a very important song in Daphne’s life. “It brought me through many years when I was not where I wanted to be. I held onto that song, thinking that this is only for awhile, not forever – it gave me hope for the future. Then when they closed 311 Day 2020 with an acoustic version, it took on a whole new meaning. As the pandemic started in America and the future was unknown, I was comforted that my favorite band – and my Excitable family – would be with me and help pull me through the uncertainty.”

So for a favorite lyric, Daphne said she almost didn’t want to say it for fear of making people have to pee, so obviously it comes from “Amber:” ““Don’t give up your independence, Unless it feels so right, Nothing good comes easily, Sometimes you’ve got to fight.” “I’ve always been taught to be independent and persistent so that really resonates with me. I also love the poetry of “when I look at you it’s like praying with my eyes.”

Daphne was born in Baltimore but raised in Port St. Lucie, Florida. She moved to Gainesville and then Jacksonville, North Carolina, before moving back to Port St. Lucie. She still lives there with her 3-year-old American bulldog, Lucky. “I’d like to live in other places but for now I want to be close to my family.” For work, Daphne is a finance coordinator for Habitat for Humanity. “I love it! I love working for non-profits because even on your worst day at work, you know that you’re helping somebody.”

When Daphne was young she started acting at a local theater. She even got her associates degree in theater performance! “I had plans to be an actress. But then I met my now ex-husband, and starting a family with him was more important than chasing my acting dream. So I switched my major to business, but I kept performing in local shows. I haven’t been in a play in a long time but I still regularly sing. I even took belly dancing lessons for a while, that was so much fun!”

Fun fact about Daphne is that she has a Masters Degree in Public Administration with a non-profit emphasis. “Also, I attended 4 different colleges for my undergrad (which is in Business Administration). This is because I was married in my early 20’s and my now ex-husband was in the Marine Corps.”

As mentioned above, Daphne still loves to sing and she also plays keyboard in the praise band at her church. “I’ve rocked the stage in a 311 tribute band called Excitables: 311 Tribute. I was also in a virtual 311 tribute band called Soul Craft Generators. I made it into the I’ll Be Here Awhile fan video!” Guilty pleasure for Daphne is the T.V. show Love After Lockup. She also recently has become addicted to the game Royal Match.

When not cranking the tunes of 311, Daphne enjoys a variety of genres. “Some of my favorites are Tropidelic, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Thundercat, Wookiefoot, Nonpoint, Thousand Foot Crutch, and I’m newly into jam bands, especially Phish.”

To 311, Daphne sends this message: “Thank you for being the soundtrack to my life. There is always a 311 lyric that exemplifies how I’m feeling. And over the last 10 years being in the 311 community, I have found some of the most amazing people, including my other bestie Jamie Shelley. My life is so much fuller because of the connections I have made thru the love of this band.”

Now here is her message to all the other fans out there:

“I’m so glad I have found my people. Be kind to one another and stay weird!”

Many thanks to Daphne for sharing her story with us all! As always, my eternal gratitude to everyone who reads these. I wish you all a wonderful week full of happiness and positive vibes!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #428 – 4/22/24 – Matt Archer!

Hey there 311 nation! A new week is upon us so that means it’s time for the next fan spotlight. Let’s meet Matt Archer!

The year was 1996 and “Down” was in heavy rotation on MTV, that’s when Matt first heard of 311. “I found the blue album at my local Walmart and started down the rabbit hole. This was a time when I actually read the liner notes and lyrics as I listened. I was drawn to their music because it was different, raw, full of energy and original. When searching through a Columbia House catalog I had found out that they also had 2 other albums that I was not aware of in “Music” and “Grassroots.” A friend of mine had let me borrow their VHS release “Enlarged to Show Detail.” And then, “Transistor” dropped…!!! It was all downhill from there.”

Show count for Matt is at 39 so far. First show was on July 23, 2004, with The Roots and Medeski Martin & Wood and the Tweeter Center in Mansfield, Massachusetts. As for picking a favorite show, there are a few that stand out to Matt. “311 Day 2020 in Las Vegas is special due to the fact that my wife and I got married on 3/11 Day in Vegas and it was our first 311 Day. It was also the first time I met a lot of new friends from around the country. 311 Caribbean Cruise 7 was probably the best vacation I have ever been on, but my favorite show may be night one 311 Day 2024. Hampton Beach shows are always fun.”

For a special song that means a lot to him, Matt chose “Do You Right” as it’s his and his wife Marie’s song. As for a lyric he loves, he chose the following: “Sometimes I go a little crazy. Sometimes I go a little crazy just like you I do.” He said that’s what it feels like being at a 311 show!

Warren, Massachusetts, is where Matt grew up and he’s been in Massachusetts his whole life. He’s lived in West Brookfield, North Brookfield, Auburn and now Southbridge with his wife Marie and their dog Gus. For work, Matt is a Plant Maintenance Supervisor for Spectrum cable. “This year marks 20 years working in the cable industry for me. A lot of vacation time is used for concerts!”

Fun fact about Matt, he went to college in Boston for Audio Production (as in becoming a music producer). “Although I never finished school, my love for music continues on!” Not only is he a big fan of music, but he loves the Red Sox, Celtics and Patriots, and he’s a big UFC fighting fan. “I am full of useless knowledge that I call Archer Fun Facts which tends to come in handy during conversations or trivia nights LOL.” Guilty pleasure for him is playing MLB The Show on his Playstation 5.

When not listening to 311, there are many other artists that Matt can be found jamming out to. “In the beginning of 2020, the radio station I grew up listening to, WAAF, had shut down. A friend of mine suggested that I start a Facebook group to share music in which ended up being Archer’s Music Exchange (feel free to join.) If you see my posts in the group, you will know that I enjoy vast array of groups and artists. Umphrey’s McGee, Primus, Phish, Alice in Chains, Queens of the Stone Age, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Slayer, Mudvayne, The New Mastersounds, Lettuce, Stone Temple Pilots, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Elovaters, Pantera, and the list could go on and on.”

Matt would like to send this message to the guys in 311: “Thank you for adding to the soundtrack of my life and good times!”

Now here is his message to all the other 311 fans out there:

“311 has the best commUNITY of fans in the world. I have met so many amazing people and made friends with so many of you and I wouldn’t change a minute! Thank you guys for always having a good time with us at the shows. We will see you this summer and on the cruise next year!!!”

Thank you to Matt for sharing your story with us all! As always, my gratitude goes out to all the readers each week. Hope you are all well and sending you all good vibes!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #426 – 4/8/24 – Christine Marquet!

Hey hey hey 311 nation! It’s about time for a new fan spotlight. This week let’s get the story of Christine Marquet!

It was during high school for Christine that “From Chaos” dropped, and we all know that “Amber” was the big single from it. “I was a sophmore in high school and a friend who was a senior needed to school me and burnt me a Grassroots CD. I was hooked! To this day the From Chaos CD is always in my car, but my biggest favorite are the classics.”

First show for Christine was in 2001 in New York City. While it was indoors, she was still excited to light up when the band played “Amber.” “Somehow I ended up dropping my piece and that was the first piece I ever broke. I went to a lot of concerts with my friend backs then to bands they wanted to see but 311 was the band I wanted to see. I think All-American Rejects opened? Anyway I always saw them every summer when they came through, typically at PNC Arts center. Throughout college I had a friend or two that would join but in my post college life I was always going alone. Night know a few people there but didn’t have a crew I rolled with. Always solo. Since I made a new friend Jackyn in 2018 my yearly ahow attendance and travel for shows has grown exponentially. I can say I’ve seen at least thirty 311 shows.” While it was tough to pick a favorite show or event, Christine went with the 2019 cruise. “I just was in heaven, every breath I took that week.”

The songs “Omaha Stylee” and “Do You Right” Christine said just “hit her to her bones.” “What’s really special about this band and their live performances for me is I can’t attend or listen without grooving and while I do tend to dance whether there is music or not if the mood is right, 311 is just such a special and unique blend they really nailed it. 10/10.”

Christine is a Jersey girl who’s heart is in theater. “I love being on stage or having anything to do with a performing arts/storytelling medium production. I guess it comes from loving to play pretend growing up and the freedom that comes with putting yourself aside to share a story or a feeling with a captivated audience. I recently resurrected my lifelong passion which I had set aside for a decade and it has brought much joy and peace back into my life. For those readers who follow me on Instagram you’ve no doubt seen my backstage antics and sneak peaks of costumes and wigs during plays I’ve been in in recent years and the Chaos and stress of the theater just really grounds me in the real world.”

Before rediscovering her first love of theater, Christine had stumbled upon a side quest that brought her to the wonderful family of Excitables. “When a DIY Game of Thrones Halloween Costume I made got attention and landed me an invite to New York Comic Con,I had no idea how big of a community and underground culture that scene had worldwide. What really blew my mind that first comic con was when I took a bathroom break and found 2 other girls in similarly DIY versions of the same character I was dressed as, smudging eyeshadow on their faces as dirt and soot to resemble Khalessi in the Red Waste in Season 2 of GOT. I joined in on the touch-up session to learn there was a meet-up happening right then for photo shoot specifically for Game of Thrones cosplayers. That’s how I met Jaclyn “Casterly” Fox. She orchestrated the meet up and my girl crush was activated. I followed her on Facebook and after some light stalking found that she had 311 listed in her interests. What are the odds! No one else in the universe that I know actively is aware of much less interested in 311. AND she does GOT cosplay? I immediately DMed her to invite her to an event and tell her we should be friends in real life. About a year later we were embarking on the 311 cruise that changed both our lives.”

For work, Christine does sales for licensed merch, which means she sells Spiderman t-shirts. “It’s about as close as a part-time nerd can get to doing something I honestly enjoy without it not actually being a job.” Interesting fact that many may not know, she almost died as a toddler. “It was due to a rare infection that someone brought into my daycare that inflames the epiglottis and restricts breathing. Thank God my Mommy is a nurse and knew when to go to the hospital.”

Christine can honestly say that in a trivia game about “Game of Thrones,” that she and Jaclyn would school almost anyone on the boat. “I’d say LOTR but I’m positive there are some quiet Silmarillion readers among us that would put me to shame.” Guilty pleasure for Christine is sleep! “I sleep too much. I literally would rather do anything than get out of bed, unless it’s a 311 day.”

For other music Christine enjoys, she is a big Beyonce lover. She was also brought up on Jazz. Her current musical guilty pleasure is Doja Cat. “And I’ll never skip a showtune or Disney classic when it cues up on the old I-Pod shuffle. Thanks to the 2019 cruise I discovered Tropidelic and went down the rabbit hole of discovery becoming a big follower of them, Bumpin Uglies and the Groovetastic Little Stranger. It honestly seemed kismet that all my fav bands were on the last cruise, I don’t know how that lineup could be topped in my book.”

Christine wanted to share this fun story with everyone. “In preparation for the last cruise or 311 Day I attended I decided I needed to study the bands discography. Sure I had my BearShare downloads I copied from phone to phone over the years and my trusty I-Pod shuffle Playlist- but other than the few Albums I had I knew I didn’t know the B-sides or even which song was on which album, as well as I should. I mean some of y’all got them lyrics on lock. I’ll never get there but I had some studying to do. So, having a car with a CD player and lots of road trips ahead, I did the sensible thing and found a 13 CD lot listing in which someone was offloading their collection, got a visor CD sleeve attachment, and listened to the discography in all its glory. I’ll admit I mostly stick to the classics, I’m here for the bangers.”

As for words Christine would say to 311, she was actually lucky enough to do a toast on the 2019 cruise that pretty much sums up her feelings: “I was exhausted and hungover but I won the lottery to attend that event and when they opened up the floor for a toast and no stepped forward my ballsy ass did and I got to thank SA and P-nut with the only words I had which were thank you for bringing these misfits and ragers and hippies and stars together to form this family and thank you for continuing to give us the opportunities to come together and praise you and share eachother light and love.”

No photo description available.

Now here is her toast to all the other 311 fans out in the universe:

“Thank y’all for welcoming myself and Jaclyn Nicole in all our goofy, crazy, extra awesomeness. Neither of us truly felt the freedom to be ourselves without worry of judgement or complaint before discovering this family and there no place like being with this Familia at a show or event. Not only acceptance but encouragement and delight at us being ourselves is something people don’t get to experience in their lifetimes. And we get to do it and be it and live it every time we see your big smiling glittery faces.

Keep shining. Xoxo Marquet”

Super big thank you to Christine for sharing her story with us all! And as always, my eternal gratitude to all the readers each post. I hope you all have an amazing week and that it’s full of light & positivity.

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #425 – 3/25/24 – Jaclyn Nicole Fox!

Hello my friends in 311 nation! It’s time for the latest edition of the fan spotlight. Let’s read all about Jaclyn Nicole Fox!

Driving around with Jaclyn’s sister and her boyfriend in a Jeep is the first time she heard the sweet music of 311, sometime around the year 1999. “I remember hearing Eons, Flowin and Who’s Got the Herb. I made a random mix CD with those 3 songs on it but was at the time really into the punk scene and just never really fully continued to fully follow them intensely until several years later which I wholeheartedly regret!”

First show for Jaclyn was at Jones Beach in 2011. “My friend had an extra ticket on the floor in row G to see Sublime with Rome and 311. I went mostly for Sublime but knew a bunch of 311 songs. By the time I left the show that night I was HOOKED! Went for Sublime with Rome, left loving 311!”

It’s hard for most to pick a favorite 311 show, and it was no different for Jaclyn. She said that she loves so many for different reasons. “I think its a toss up between 311 day 2022 and 311 day at sea may have been my favorite so far. 311 day in 2022 I did the ultimate VIP package and that was such an awesome experience, having a room, the pool party, the VIP lounge everything about that experience was epic! But on night 1 getting the set lists handed to me on SA was probably one of my absolute favorite memories from an event! But as far as the last cruise, combining 311 day with the cruise was just amazing! My first cruise was in 2019 and I got on the boat knowing only my cabin mate. Getting on the cruise in 2023 I knew so many more people and had so many really close friends and connections and made so many more on that trip that it really made that cruise magical. Me and my girl Marquet brought our mermaid tails and just had a blast in the pool and on the beach at in our tails, that was a lot of fun! Plus so many other amazing artists and seeing 311 on 311 day on the boat! I came home and would not stop talking about it and vibrating with excitement from it for weeks and weeks. It is great to see different groups of friends at various shows throughout the year, but having everyone come together for 311 day and for the cruises brings the ultimate feeling of happiness and joy.”

For a favorite song, Jaclyn said “Creatures (For A While)” is the first one she remembers becoming obsessed with. “It helped me through a really dark time in my life back in 2010-2011.” As for a favorite lyric, she said the first one that really resonated with her was also from the same song. “Sometimes I go a little crazy just like you do.” Now, aside from “Stay positive and love your life,” one of her faves is “If you don’t have someone to do it with it’s not worth doing.”

Wantagh, New York, is where Jaclyn grew up, which is on Long Island and also the home of Jones Beach. She lived there most of her life until moving to Las Vegas in 2022. She grew up with a large family and while her parents divorced when she was only 2, they both remarried and lived a mile away from each other. “I have 7 siblings and I am very close to my family! I grew up taking annual trips to Disney and we are such a huge group even now my siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles , cousins , grandma my parents all try and coordinate to go at the same time and it’s so much fun. Especially now that everyone lives all over the country we still manage to come together and plan this huge vacation!”

Jaclyn’s aunt is a physical therapist who works with infants and children, so growing up she was very aware of how she was helping kids with varying disabilities. So Jaclyn decided to follow in her footsteps. “I have been a physical therapist since 2010 and have worked with children since 2012. I absolutely love what I do. Helping a baby or a child take their first steps, or learn how to stand or walk or even sit up on their own really means the world to me, plus yes it helps me fund my 311 addiction!”

Interesting fact about Jaclyn is that she wanted to be a dancer when she was growing up. ” I was obsessed with Mikhail Baryshnikov and wanted to be just like him. I would also act out all the dances from Dirty Dancing with my baby dolls and would ask everyone to “do the lift” with me like all the time!”

Jaclyn is also really into Cosplay. “I started out doing Cersei from game of thrones and have even won a cosplay contest at a Game of Thrones themed night at liberty science center. I love making costumes and meeting up with other cosplayers at conventions. I put together 2 large Game of Thrones photoshoots at 2 different castles in NY when I lived there. I love the ability to express myself artistically through my cosplay. That is how I met Marquet and how we began going to 311 events and shows together which then led to us creating the 311 Mermaids together! I haven’t cosplayed much since moving to Vegas but now I really enjoy going to watch drag shows and drag brunches. It is such a fascinating form of artistic expression and such a loving community.”

For a guilty pleasure, Jaclyn said that she loves binge watching episodes of “Beverly Hills, 90210.” “Also I love brunch! I would go to brunch every day if I could!” Some other musicians that she can be found listening to include Lady Gaga, Los Stellarians, New Found Glory, Blink 182, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tropidelic, Ballyhoo!, and Dirty Heads.

For her message to the members of 311, Jaclyn chose these words: “Thank you for years of amazing music, for being a huge inspiration in my everyday life and for bringing us all together and introducing me to some of my very best friends!”

Now here is her message to all the other fans out there in Excitable nation:

“Stay true to yourself! Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle, and if you need some extra glitter in your life always come find me!”

So much love to Jaclyn for sharing her story with us all! My love as well to the readers and supporters each time. Hope you are all well and have an amazing week!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict, Uncategorized

311 Fan Spotlight #424 – 3/18/24 – Jenna Kimlinger!

Well hello again my friends in 311 nation! Hope you all had an amazing 311 Day last week. Let’s get to it and meet the latest fan spotlight. This week we learn all about Jenna Kimlinger!

Jenna was only about 6 or 7 and her older sister Nadia had been a big fan of 311 since 1996. “Being the younger, nosier, sister, I would sneak into her room to try to read her diary and see what she and her boyfriend were up to. (She was definitely on to me, and I couldn’t find it a lot of the time). However, in her boombox, was the Blue Album. ‘All Mixed Up’ hooked me. They have forever been a staple in my life, but found a resurgence before the birth of my first child thanks to Mosaic.”

Show count for Jenna is 34. Her first show was in 2002 in Milwaukee at Summerfest. “I was in high school, second row, and truly thought I was going to die. It was the first and last time I crowd surfed, and it was mostly so I could breathe.”

As for favorite show, Jenna said there is something magical about every single show. “I love just being in it, you know? You look around and you’re like yep – these are my people. This is my happy place. I have been so incredibly fortunate to see them in so many places – 311 Day in Vegas, Cruise (shout out 1st timers in 23!), Red Rocks, The Tabby in Atlanta, Chicago, and some of the smaller venues on the East Coast. The Milll & Mine show in Knoxville in 2017 was just incredible. I remember it was the first time I heard ‘Purpose’ live and I literally smacked my friend next to me a dozen times. SA noticed how excited I was and just gave me a huge smile. My first 311 Day hits hard, too. How does one pick a favorite 311 show? Each one gets better than the last. 311 ages like fine wine, especially with Nick Sexum… I mean Hexum at the helm.”

The song “Evolution” has always been Jenna’s jam. “I would walk home from the bus stop bumping Soundsystem on repeat. Evolution got a million replays, easily. It was light, brought joy to my life, and was a great way to bring energy into the dreary midwestern winters.” She also loves the song “Island Sun.” “Reminds me of the place that saved my life – Camp Onaway. When Mosaic came out, I was at a pivotal moment of my life – I was finishing grad school, about to be pregnant, and needing some grounding. As soon as I heard the lyrics, I was like yep – that’s camp.” As for a favorite lyric? “The jaded ones will whither while the optimistic grow. “I have it as a poster in my classroom. Great discussion for youth.”

Jenna was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Canadian parents and they migrated north “to the land of beer, cheese, and the Packers.” She is the youngest of 3 sisters, who are 10 and 7 years older than she is. “I married my spouse (who has only seen them once with me [2nd in Kansas City in April]), moved to Asheville, NC and just relocated to be near family in Minnesota. Why I live here, is still beyond me, but the summers are great and this winter has been hella mild.”

As for what Jenna does to fund her 311 habit? “I always say: HAVE 311 WILL TRAVEL. My spouse and I do not do gifts for holidays or birthdays. Instead he says, “you have 311, happy merry birth/christma/day.” I guess I do a bit of girl math. Lol – For 311 Day this year, I guessed the dates they planned to play and booked a hotel super early and got a great deal. I scour the internet for flights and sometimes, well, the credit card just takes a hit. It’s always a family reunion when 311 plays. My clique, more like a family (had to) calls me the 311 Welcoming Crew. I had glow sticks and headbands to give away at Red Rocks this summer. I gave them away and in return got earrings, cash, and one of the best pieces of pizza ever. I wasn’t in it for any of that – just the Unity, but do you know how COOL it was to look out into that crowd and see the 40 or so people I interacted with and gave them things that glow? It’s like sending out the friendship beam! Welcome to this groove, am I right?”

Interesting fact about Jenna is that she is an amateur cake decorater! “But my creations turn out pretty well.” Something that makes Jenna unique is that, in her words, she speaks fluently in song lyrics, Office Quotes, and or PUNS. “What can I say? I’m a punny gal!” Gulity pleasure for Jenna? “I aspire to be the “Queen of Halloween” on my block. Yearly, my halloween collection grows, most notably, the 12 foot skeleton. His name is Al Cabone.”

Other musicians that Jenna can be found cranking tunes from include the following: “Little Stranger is going to blow up music and become our generation’s Beastie Boys. Mark my words. Bumpin Uglies – Brandon was so kind to say hi to me on the cruise Tropidelic – shout out to my Everwild People – I’m a newbie this year so come say hi! Also, that lineup! Imagine Dragons – seriously – such showmanship. CAKE – have only seen them once but want to see them again.”

To 311, Jenna sends out this message: “Thank you for being the consistent, transformative existence in my life; I am eternally grateful.”

Here is Jenna’s message to all the other beautiful fans out there:

“My people?! What’s up?! Thank you to everyone who I have met. To the lifelong friends, the inside jokes, and the forever evolving Facebook Chat group with what feels like a million different names – thank you. To Nadia, to Tish, Cabin 9066 – forever stay Strong All Along.”

Super big thanks to Jenna for sharing her story with us all! As well as my eternal gratitude to all who read and participate in this little blog. Can’t wait to see some of you this summer on the Unity Tour! Have a fantastic week!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict, Uncategorized

311 Fan Spotlight #423 – 3/11/24 – Ed Caba!

Hello my friends out there in Excitable nation! Happy 311 Day!!! A new fan spotlight is here. Let’s meet Ed Caba!

Fall of 1996 is when Ed first heard 311 thanks to his roommate at Florida State. “I can’t say it was a pleasant experience to be honest. He played Music and Grassroots on a 24 hour a day repeat as loud as he possibly could, In all honesty, I probably didn’t give them a fair shot at the time. In hindsight I think I was more mad about the volume while I was trying to sleep/study. Now things started to change a little in the spring semester of 97. I had moved into a different dorm with different roommates. When I would go to the student union to eat in the cafeteria, they had some tv sets scattered around playing a variety of different music videos. It always seemed to play Down every time I was there to eat. I didn’t realize it was the very same band my previous roommate had annoyed me with. It was a catchy song. When I came home for the summer, I found out my sister had bought the Blue album. At first I was thinking to myself that I couldn’t escape that band (I was still thinking about that first roommate at Florida State). She swore by the album so I gave it a chance and fell in love with Random, All Mixed Up and Don’t Stay home. So I decided to revisit Music and Grassroots another chance and did a deep dive into those albums. With time and separation from that roommate, I viewed those albums in a whole new light. I immediately loved Hydroponic, Visit, Omaha Stylee and Six. I was hooked and I haven’t looked back. To think I almost missed out on a lot of great experiences and friends because of a roommate.in 1996 . When I gave those early albums another chance, I think it was just the sounds and the pacing of the albums that really brought me into the fold. When Transistor came out, that was it. I was a fan for life after that album and not long after came my first 311 show. It’s still my favorite album from the catalog.”

Show count for Ed is around 20. First show for him was in December 1997 in Columbia, South Carolina, during the Transistor tour. “Beautiful Disaster was my favorite song off the album at the time and I lost it when they played that live. I had floor tickets, Sugar Ray opened and it was a hell of a show. 4 of us went. To this day, I can’t remember who the 4th person was in that crew lol.”

As for a favorite show, Ed is always torn between three different ones when trying to decide. “One show was at the House of Blues in Myrtle Beach, SC. I went through a hell of contest at a bar to win those tickets and ride on a Jack Daniels party bus. Then there was 2018 in Charlotte at PNC with two of my old fraternity brothers. And finally 311 Day 2020. Not only was it my first 311 Day but it was the 3 day show for the 30th anniversary. I’d have to say 311 Day 2020 for the reasons I’ve already mentioned plus some of the people I met and became friends were instrumental in me keeping my head on right when I was going through some stuff in 2022.”

While Ed said he could spend days trying to figure out what his favorite song is, he went with “Freeze Time.” “Every time I listen to this song (and it’s a lot). I think about these little moments I’ve had over the years that I wished I could freeze in time if you will, the little moments that have meant a lot to me (not all are 311 related). Moments like the very first time that I held my daughter, the first time she said daddy, the first daddy/daughter dance we went to, my wedding and various family trips. Of course the 311 moment I cherish and hold onto is the very first I saw them play live, Hive. I could go on and on with this because there are so many little moments that I cherish from over the years.”

For some lyrics that really resonate with him, Ed picked some from the song “Tranquility.” “The first verse has always stood out to me, “Journey in peace now, you don’t have to be afraid, though mistakes have been made, journey in peace now.” My journey through life has had plenty of speed bumps, potholes and whatever other metaphors someone could come up with. That verse (and song as a whole) is a constant reminder that those regrets, the pain I’ve had shouldn’t define who I am and that I shouldn’t hold on to them. The lyrics help me realize that things happen and in order to make this journey through life in peace that I can’t dwell on those mistakes, that I have to keep moving forward and just try to learn from those mistakes and be a better person. When I was finally able to let go of some of those mistakes and make peace with them, my journey became a lot more peaceful.”

Columbia, SC, is where Ed was born in 1977. His dad was in the military so they didn’t stay there long. Shortly after his birth they moved to Germany and he actually ended up living there two times. “Of course, I was too young to remember anything about living there the first time. I think we lived there for 3 years or so before relocating again to Kentucky where my dad was stationed at Ft. Knox. I do remember some things from that time. Being a kid, playing with friends and disappearing until it was dinner time. Watching football with my dad and trying to tackle him only to get dropped on my chin lol. I remember getting exposed to Kentucky Wildcat basketball and loving it (still my college bball team to this day). My sister was born while we lived in Kentucky. After Kentucky, we moved back to Germany. I couldn’t tell you where my dad was stationed but we lived in military housing in the Bad Nauheim area and I went to the American elementary school of the same name. My parents had some friends whose oldest son went on to play football at Florida State. They would send us tapes of games that he played and that turned me into a Florida State fan. After Germany, we would move one final time. It was back to where it all began. Back to Columbia, SC. It was once we were back in Columbia that I really fell in love with sports and music. The music was heavily influenced by a girl I used to catch a ride with to high school. The music would ultimately define my taste in music going forward. I mentioned earlier about my experience at Florida State University. I also attend the University of South Carolina in Columbia. Currently I’m working as a Materials Manager at a plant in a small town in SC. It pays well enough to fund my 311 trips and all my bills.”

Fun fact about Ed is that he can function on very little sleep! “It’s not pretty every now and then but I can do it. lol I mean, I am almost 47.” Something else he thought people might not know is that he’s pretty introverted but he can also make friends in any given environment. “It’s easier if there are a few beers involved. lol. I apparently have a lot of people fooled. A lot of people that I’ve known for a long time would describe me as extroverted. An introverted social butterfly if there is such a thing.”

A talent that Ed used to have is drawing. “Throughout middle school and high school (with a little college thrown in), a couple friends and I had our own little comic going on. I did most of the drawing for it. We had a nice little following for a while. TIme went on and we all kind of went our own directions in life so that faded away. I still drew on and off again for a while until work really took hold. My daughter inherited that talent. She’s really good at it. I hope she maintains that or pursues it a lot better than I did.”

Guilty pleasure for Ed is the video game Destiny 2. “I guess I would call it a guilty pleasure because a lot of people that I know in my age bracket certainly don’t and kind of look down on it. But I don’t care. I made some good friends over the years doing it. I enjoy reading Star Wars books as well as another hobby, again, not sure I would call it a guilty pleasure. I’m trying to teach myself how to play guitar as I’ve been inspired in recent years seeing 311 to do it.”

Ed’s taste in music he said is heavily influenced thanks to the girl who gave him a ride to high school every day. “Pearl Jam, Nirvana became some of my favorites. From Pearl Jam and Nirvana, spawned my interest in Alice in Chains and Stone Temple Pilots. I was certainly heavy into the grunge type music. Still to this day. I love some Foo FIghters as well. I’m seeing them for the first time this year. I can’t wait to see them. The Movement, Tropidelic, and Sublime are some of my others that I enjoy.”

To 311, Ed chose these words: “Thank you for the music you’ve made and the community you’ve built because all of it has helped me get through some dark times in my life. Your music has had such a positive influence on my life that I go out of my way to find a positive in any situation that I encounter and I try to bring a little positivity to all those I meet along this journey through life.”

Now here is his message to all those other awesome fans out there:

“Thank you for being such a fantastic community of music fans. I feel somewhat blessed by the opportunities at different shows to have met such fantastic people. I love the energy and the welcoming attitudes. It’s nice to go somewhere and feel like no one is a stranger, where there is an instant connection through a shared love for the same band. I look forward to seeing a lot of you again soon and to meet more of you for the first time.”

A huge thank you to Ed for sharing his story with us all! As always and forever, my love and gratitude to all the readers each week. I hope you all have an excellent 311 Day!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #422 – 3/4/24 – Joe Shiver!

Hello my friends out there in 311 nation! Another week and new fan spotlight are upon us. Let’s meet Joe Shiver!

For Joe, he loved the positivity of 311’s music when he first heard it. And he said it’s because it’s done in a genuine way. “The way they mix up rhythms, lyrics, musicianship and the values they stand for.”

For show’s attended, Joe said he lost count but believes he’s somewhere between 20-30. First show for him was in June of 2000. “Incubus opened for 311. They played 3 albums back to back: Music, Grassroots and the blue album took a break and played another 7-8 songs. An amazing show.” Favorite show for him? “311 at The Wiltern Theatre in LA with band doing the whole From Chaos album.”

What is Joe’s favorite song from 311? “That is an ebb and flow, pun intended. Through the years this changed a few times so the most to me right now is Still Dreaming. There is a lot to unpack there with the lyrics.”

As with most fans, Joe has some lyrics that really resonate with him and they are as follows: “Everything you do comes back to you” and “If you can’t do it clean you’ll never reach your reward. When the day is done what you receive is the sum of what you took out from what you put in.”

Joe was born in St. Louis but then moved to New Jersey when he was a kid. Then they moved to Georgia and Joe attended college in the North Georgia mountains and West North Carolina. “Currently I’m living in Georgia working for Apple as a senior tech advisor.”

Interesting fact about Joe, when he was in the 5th grade he got the county to build a BMX bike track that he designed! Another fun fact, Joe manages a band called Daydrnkrz. “Shameless plug lol. Please check them out. People say we sound like The Dirty Heads, Little Stranger, Tropidelic etc…”

Guilty pleasure for Joe is playing guitar as well as writing and recording music. “I also dabble in electronic music. This is all a hobby.” When not listening to 311, Joe can be found jamming tunes from Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine, Led Zeppelin and Miles Davis. “It really is all over the map. I think there is great music in every genre.”

To 311, Joe would like to send this message: “Thank you for all the great music and positive lyrics.”

Now here are his words to all his fellow 311 fans out there:

“Stay Positive and love your life!”

Super big thank you to Joe for sharing your story with us all! Of course, my eternal gratitude to all the readers each week. Hope you all have an amazing week and safe travels to all going to Vegas for 311 Day!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #421 – 2/26/24 – Corinne Bowes!

Welcome again my friends in Excitable nation! Shall we meet the latest edition of the 311 fan spotlight? This week let’s learn the story of Miss Corinne Bowes!

Corinne was about the age of 13 when she saw 311 on MTV. ” I remember vaguely that year seeing them perform and thinking they looked different. I loved the sound.”

First show for Corinne was at a venue that is now called IThink Financial Amphitheater in West Palm Beach. And while she can only ballpark her total number of shows seen, she believes she’s around 75. Some of the highlights for her include her first 311 Day in New Orleans in 2014, Pow Wow in 2011, and her first cruise in 2013.  “And some amazing visits to Colorado for shows at Red Rocks and The Stanley shows over the years.” As for favorite event, she said the cruises take top spot hands down. “I’m already excited about booking later this year!”

Song that means the most to Corinne is “Do You Right.” As for lyrics, she chose a few that really mean a lot to her, which are as follows: “You make me nervous, throat dry, My brain is empty, don’t know why. But I saw you doing something, Which is really truly nothing but you could bust me out all day,” “You ought to know what brings me here, You glide through my head, blind to fear, and I know why,” and “Can’t get enough, this is the stuff. Life’s about, and it trips me up.”

Corinne grew up in Jamaica until she moved to Florida at the age of 8. She’s lived in the state ever since. She studied at Florida Atlantic University and became a community Cannabis activist once she was introduced to some information about the prohibition. “While I researched and learned more about the history of cannabis, I started working as a private care home health nurse. I had had a handful of retail jobs which I enjoyed, as well as worked for a bank and several start up companies in sales and marketing. Recently I was hired to build a cannabis friendly lounge in Miami and handled operations as well as venue booking. I love being a member of the holistic health and wellness community. This year I’m focussed more on blending that lifestyle with my skills in event management and curation.”

Some fun facts about Corinne – she eavesdrops on Spanish. She also has 5 half siblings. And she fell in love with Country in her early 30’s. A talent she has is writing songs and stories which she’s been doing since she was 12. . “I’ve  only shared a handful with a handful of people. I come up with lyrics almost constantly and have a little skill in free styling as long as I am not pressured to do it. 😂”

Guilty pleasure for Corinne is slightly different than most, she just loves popping up in places spontaneously. “Whether it’s to see friends or try a new restaurant, I’ve always enjoyed the impulse of just doing it when it comes to travel and making a memory.”

What else is Corinne listening to besides 311? ” I fell into a groove in the Palm Beach music scene that opened me up to a lot of great bands. Some include, Arise Roots, Army Gideon, Little Stranger, Bumpin Uglies and my favorite so far, Tropidelic. I listen to everything. I love, jazz, drum and bass, funk, blues, and hip-hop as much as I enjoy reggae.”

For what Corinne would say to 311, she has this message: “Thank you for making the effort to make every effort. When I first heard this band, I selfishly wished they would play forever and I could enjoy them not being “one hit wonders”. Wishes continue to come true around me. That alone changes what I think is possible.”

Now here is her message to all her fellow fans:

“Looking around at the past 13 years that I was lucky enough to be a welcomed part of our great music fan culture, I really feel a great blessing of getting to spend this time with people who have taught me and helped me add joy to life. Lots of great stories as well as moments that changed a lot in us all. I have a new wish that what we have enjoyed is shared freely to others. The music doesn’t change the person, but the same songs we love do bring us together as one people.”

Many thanks to Corinne for sharing her story with us all! And as always, my love and gratitude to all the readers each week. Wishing you all the positivity in the world!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #420 – 2/12/24 – Patrick Hodge!

Hey there Excitable nation! Time for the next 311 fan spotlight and we are on #420. Woo hoo! This week, let’s meet Patrick Hodge!

Summer of 1995, right after Patricks freshman year of high school, was when he found 311. His girlfriends older brother had cassette tape, bootleg copies of “Downstairs” and “Unity.” “Growing up in Providence, RI, I was exposed to a lot of Rap and Hip Hop, their sound was a fantastic blend of that foundation along with P-Nuts bass that really stood out.”

Show count for Patrick is at 131 and he’s been to many of those shows across the states and in different countries. First show for him was June 3rd, 1996, in Providence. As for favorite one of the 131 shows? “Cruise 1 Sail Away show! Also got to play on P-Nuts Basketball Team on C1.”

The song “Plain” is one that Patrick really loves. His favorite lyric also comes from that song: “I tell you what ‘s wrong to me the industry’s ability to manufacture stars. They churn them out like Iwojema makes cars. But the blame lies not with those suits for trying. It’s the sheep that keep on buying that soulless crap. Whatever they put in front of ya. The hysteria of America.”

As mentioned previously, Patrick grew up in Providence, Rhode Island, and most of his summers were spent in South Boston, MA. He’s also lived in Middleboro, MA, and Cape Coral, FL. He’s now back in his home state. “To fund my 311 habit, I run a Mobile Wood Fired Pizza Oven, specializing in Catered Events but also with brewery pop-ups and farmers markets. Additionally, when inspiration hits I make unofficial 311 merch including foil posters, pins and tshirts! #fanmade #hodgepodge”

Fun fact about Patrick is that he’s been a freelance photographer for the band since 1997. He’s also ambidextrous! Patrick is also a really great cook. “Breakfast is one of my favorite meals to cook especially the homefries which I feel is the foundation to a great breakfast.”

Guilty pleasure for Patrick he said is buying RSVLTS shirts. “If you don’t know who they are, look them up but beware of the rabbit hole 😂.” As for other musicians he can be found listening to, the list includes Tropidelic, Little Stranger, Bumpin Uglies, Stick Figure, Jarv, The Elovaters, Rebelution, Cloud9Vibes, and Ballyhoo! 

To 311, Patrick has this message: “Thank you for giving me an opportunity to begin a career in photography all those years ago, for the music you create and for the family I’ve met along the way.”

Now here is his message to all his fellow 311 fans:

“311 means something different to everyone, so don’t feel like you always have to be the 311est! Come for the good vibes and check your egos at the door. One thing remains true, at least for me, is that it doesn’t matter if it’s your 100th Show or 1st, all are welcome at a 311 concert. Now bring on some new music in 2024!”

Thank you Patrick for sharing your 311 story with us all! Much gratitude to the supporters of this blog each time as well. Hope you have an amazing week friends. If any of you will be in Atlantic City this Friday, I’ll see you there!

Much Love – The Runt

311 Fan Spotlights, Tales from a 311 addict

311 Fan Spotlight #419 – 1/29/24 – Mike Vicious!

Welcome back my friends of 311 nation! Time to meet the next fan spotlight. This week let’s learn all about Mike Vicious!

So Mike had heard of 311 before he actually heard their music and that’s because he’s from Council Bluffs, Iowa, which is part of the Omaha metro area. He said there was a lot of buzz around town when the blue album dropped and “Down” started being played on the radio. “I was just 14 when I first saw them on Letterman in 1996. So, I missed their local come-up; but a lot of my friends had older siblings who saw them live locally way before they were famous, and I was interested before I ever even heard a note. I’m a musician myself, having played instruments and being involved in musical things since I was little. At that age I was discovering what I personally liked… you know, “my music”. Although at that time I played classical, I was into hip hop and rap, and then was most definitely turned on by the whole 90’s alternative scene that was thriving. Witnessing the airing of “Down” on mainstream TV was so crazy… I had no idea what I was listening to, but I was hooked. And to think, these dudes were from my own stomping grounds! I subconsciously thought, if they could do it, I could do it! I quickly became obsessed… ASAP. I got the Blue Album (on CD, of course), followed by retrofitting Music & Grassroots, plus any bootlegs of their “Omaha Stuff” I could get my hands on. I played ETSD of VHS constantly during the summer of ’97. Transistor dropped before my freshman year of high school. It was revolutionary. I loved everything about them and still do. It’s all my favorite things: hip hop, rock ‘n roll, reggae, jazz, and sweet, sweet love songs & lullabies. Plus, they’re always my hometown heroes. So much love.”

For show count, Mike decided to go back and tally it up and he landed at 32. He said he would have gone to more if he could have and that 17 of the shows were from 1997-2017. His first 311 show was his first ever “real” concert and he was lucky that it was in his backyard at the Westfair Amphitheater on September 21, 1997. “I was only 15 years old at the time and already a ginormous fan. That night changed my life forever, and they’ve only continued to do so time and time again over the years.”

Like many, Mike says it’s impossible to narrow down his favorite show or event, but there are a few that really stand out to him. One is the very first time he saw them. Then the second time he saw them in 1999 at Sokol a week after Soundsystem was released. “CD intro, that’s all I’m gonna say.  Having a 1-on-1 moment w/ Nick & SA after the Des Moines show in 2002.. I have a tattoo of the signed ticket to commemorate the event (life changing).  Seeing Nick & Zack Hexum play a small acoustic set at Homer’s before the Memorial Park Show in 2004… OMG so much… the 25thanniversary show… SA coming to my restaurant.. Lincoln in 2021… everything 311 Day 2022… the 2023 Cruise!!!! Most recently, the dinner here in Omaha this past September.  Hard to describe, but it was freaking cool.”

As for favorite song, Mike chose two: “Places that the Mind Goes” and “Inner Light Spectrum.” Favorite lyric comes from the song “Two Drops in the Ocean:” “The love we have is the only real thing.”

As mentioned, Mike grew up in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and is now currently residing in Omaha. He also lived in Iowa City for about 15 years. “So I am a Midwest boy with mad love for Phoenix, LA, Miami, Portland, NY and Chi-town!  To fund my “311 Habit” LOL, I approach it the same way I do all expenses: tap into the entrepreneurial spirit! Besides being a musician, I’m a chef by trade and work with a lot of food service programs, grocery stores, and restaurants. I also cashed out a sum of retirement funds in order to build my home studio and, yes, my voyages to Excitable Reunions all over the country and beyond.  My only regret is not saving up more to spend more.”

Fun fact about Mike, not only does he make music, he’s an artist too. “That is, I paint and draw and stuff.. also, I write! Oh and I went to college for photography and cinematography. And I speak Italian.” Something you may not know or have been wondering – his real name is Mike Vicious. “Also, I do SA things in 311 cover bands (Don’t sleep on Brodels! Tune into “Off-Beat Podcast” for more info on that…). I’ve also performed on some important stages that 311 has also performed on:  The Ranch Bowl, Omaha (RIP), Westfair Amphitheater, yes the same!…and the Metro in Chicago!”

Guilty pleasure for Mike, he loves to binge watch high-quality shows like Stranger Things, Suits, and Breaking Bad. “And drinking White Russians. Delicious.” When not listening to 311, there are a ton of bands that Mike can be found jamming out to. Some that made the list are A.V.Collective, K-Os, Zebrahead, Z Effective, The Urge, Cardboard & Tape, Beastie Boys, Massive Attack, N.E.R.D., King Iso, Tech N9ne, ILLTH, Run The Jewels The Refreshments, RATM, RHCP, Radiohead, Macklemore, 2 Skinnee J’s, Dr. Octagon, Cloud 9 Vibes, 9CN, ICP, Kottonmouth Kings, OutKasts, Richard Warner, Otis Julius, Tropidelic, Ballyhoo, Cypress Hill, Connor Price, Taylor Swift, Corporate Avenger, Too Rude, The Fugees, The Roots,  Pink Floyd, Bob Marley, The Beatles, B.O.B, Los Stellarians, and The Nick Hexum Quintet.

To 311, Mike would like to send these words: “We’ll keep going if you will.”

Now here are his words to all his fellow fans:

“I love you all!!!!”

Huge thanks to Mike Vicious for sharing his story with us all! My eternal gratitude as always to the supporters of this blog each time as well. Now go have the best week you can. Sending you all the light & positivity.

Much Love – The Runt