Widespread Panic Fans’ Response To Alabama Mayor’s Criticism Is Heartwarming, Too

For anyone who’s been following the “flop-gate” controversy, what started as an objection to Widespread Panic by an Alabama Mayor’s office has grown into something thoroughly uplifting. As we previously reported, Widespread Panic fan Michael Butler has decided to dub WSP’s May 22nd concert at The Amphitheater at the Wharf in Orange Beach, AL as the “Flopper’s Ball.”

Widespread Panic Fans’ Response To Alabama Mayor’s Criticism Is Hilarious

The title is a reference to Mayor Pro-Tem Jeff Silvers, who said “We don’t promote that style of living and floppiness that’s happened, that they will bring…” Local fans instantly decided to turn the “floppy” event into something positive, encouraging fans to come to the concert dressed elegantly. They also hope to raise the most food at one concert for Panic’s ongoing “Feeding People Through Music” food drive.

We spoke to the fan Michael Butler, who was quoted as being the organizer of the “Floppers’ Ball” event in AL.com.

“In addition to coming to the show in style, we are hoping to make this the most successful food drive of the tour. We will combine everything we collect with the bands official collection to ensure all credit goes to Widespread Panic and their Feeding People Through Music program.”

Not only that, but Butler has teamed with local businesses to ensure the local Panic fans aren’t causing a disturbance. “We have teamed up with a local car Dealership (Gulf Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep). They will be bringing a pickup or two to the venue to be canned food drop offs… We are also teaming up with a local flower shop called Stemz to put together a cleanup crew after the show.”

Butler wants everyone to know that this project is not being organized out of spite, but rather out of the recognition for positive potential from local Widespread Panic fans.

“This is in no way an attempt to stick it to the Orange Beach officials. I have been diligent in keeping any negative posts off of our page. I am a local down here. I love Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We all do down here. I respect our local government and believe they have our communities best interest at heart. This is a positive way without slinging mud to try and change those perceptions.”

The Flopper’s Ball will be on May 22nd, and we’re encouraging all Orange Beach, AL fans to get dressed up, bring in a bag of food, and enjoy some great live music from Widespread Panic.