Anniston Star's Best of 2011 by Consolidated Publishing Co.

Inside

‘Transformers’ another loud bruiser. Page 23

July 1- July 7, 2011

You voted. We listened. Star salutes this year’s ‘Best of’

NBC sings its way to the top Page 37.

bamaescapes.com

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26-30 37 22-23 22 30 25-39

This week’s movie releases: Larry Crowne, Monte Carlo, Transformers: Dark of the Moon

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... and the winners are You spoke. We listened. Now read all about it. More than 1,000 readers submitted votes in The Anniston Star’s second annual “Best of Calhoun County” Awards. Readers nominated their favorites in more than 150 categories, from Best Local Band to Best Chicken Fingers, Best Golf Course to Best Gun Shop, Best Neighborhood to Best Vacation Spot, Best Fireman to Best Plumber. Read on for the complete list of winners. Food & Drink

Page 20

Arts & Entertainment

Page 5

Shopping

Page 15

Sports & Recreation

Page 3

People & Places

Page 8

Health

Page 6

Business & Financial

Page 11

Automotive

Page 18

Home & Garden

Page 12

Beauty & Fashion

Page 16 Cover photo by Bill Wilson/The Anniston Star

myspace.com/annistonescapes

Clear your throats: NBC sings its way to the top with ‘The Voice’ Contact US

Page 37

Interim Escapes Editors Bran Strickland, 235-3570 bstrickland@annistonstar.com

Angela Reid, 235-3581 areid@annistonstar.com

Movies

Advertising 235-9222 P.O. Box 189 Anniston, AL 36202

Sorry, but new sequel to ‘Transformers’ is another loud bruiser

Page 23 DVD

The Star’s on twitter Follow the news @AnnistonStar

New on DVD this week: ‘Sucker Punch,’ ‘Beastly,’ ‘Barney’s Version’

Page 22

network Locator Following is a list of selected channels and networks carried by CableOne (left column) and Charter Cable (right column). This is not a complete list of all channels the companies’ customers can receive. A 3-digit number means the channel is available only on that company’s digital lineup.

Stations & networks wBrc wcIQ wVtM wtto wJXS wJSU wIat wPXH waBM tV-2 a&e aMc anPL BBc Bet BIo BraVo cMt coMeDY DISc DISn e! eSPn FaM FooD FoXSS FX FXM GSn HaLL HBo H&G HISt LIFe MaX MILIt MtV nGeo nIck SYFY ScIence SHow SoaP SPeeD SPIke SPSo tBn tBS tcM tLc tnt toon tVLanD USa VH1 cnBc cnn cSPan cSPan2 Fnc MSnBc

FoX PBS nBc cw tV-24 aBc cBS Ion My network community Programming arts & entertainment american Movie classics animal Planet BBc america Black entertainment television Biography Bravo country Music television comedy central Discovery Disney entertainment television ent. & Sports Programming aBc Family Food network Fox Sport South FX network Movies from Fox Game Show network Hallmark channel Home Box office Home & Garden History Lifetime cinemax Military Music television national Geographic nickelodeon Science Fiction the Science channel Showtime Soapnet Speed Spike SportSouth trinity Broadcasting network turner Broadcasting System turner classic Movies the Learning channel turner network television cartoon network tV Land USa network Video Hits 1 consumer news and Business cable network news cable Satellite Public affairs cable Satellite Public affairs 2 FoX news Microsoft nBc network

6 10 13 8 9 4 11 7 12 2 44 50 61 -37 322 345 43 55 33 42 48 35 17 49 51 27 315 314 312 3 54 40 23 120 321 46 327 24 28 325 140 311 304 47 52 390 39 58 34 38 57 60 29 45 31 25 63 62 65 41

Piedmont

Calendar Books Movies DVDs TV Crossword TV listings

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A’ton, J’ville, Oxford

July 1 -July 7, 2011

6 7 13 12 4 10 3 9 2 -47 59 53 193 70 123 63 69 66 48 55 22 30 54 51 33 29 171 144 61 500 52 46 24 515 128 67 49 56 64 125 400 158 38 65 34 8 26 60 25 27 57 58 28 68 41 43 18 85 45 42

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B e s t o f | spo r t s & r ec r ea t i on golf course

swimming pool/spa dealer

Gun shop

1. Silver Lakes Golf Course 1 Sunbelt Pkwy., Gadsden, 256-892-3268, www.rtjgolf.com/silverlakes 2. Pine Hill Country Club 175 Pine Hill Drive, Anniston, 256-237-2633, www.pinehillcc.com 3. Cider Ridge Golf Club 200 Apple Blossom Way, Oxford, 256-831-7222, www.ciderridgegolf.com

1. Marie’s Pool Store 112 M St., Anniston, 256-238-1555, www.mariespoolstore.com. 2. Freedom Pools 8150 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-435-5503. 3. Total Pool Care 301 Alexandria Heights Circle, Alexandria, 256-820-7696.

1. Shotgun Sports 1414 U.S. 431, Anniston, 256-235-2780, www.shotgunsupply.com. 2. Bass Pro Shop 5000 Bass Pro Blvd., Leeds, 205-702-7500, www.basspro.com.

Boat/watercraft dealer

1. Bama Power Sports 455 Davis Loop, Oxford, 256-835-3335, www.bamapowersports.com. 2. Dandy RV Superstore 2772 U.S. 78 E., Anniston, 256-624-9100, www.dandyrv.com. 3. Piedmont Outdoor 613 N. Main St., Piedmont, 256-447-7211, www.piedmontoutdoor.com.

1. Bass Pro Shop 5000 Bass Pro Blvd., Leeds, 205-702-7500, www.basspro.com. 2. Bama Power Sports 455 Davis Loop, Oxford, 256-835-3335, www.bamapowersports.com. 3. Browns Outboard 305 Chastain Blvd. W., Glencoe 256-492-2212.

golf accessories 1. Cider Ridge Golf Club 200 Apple Blossom Way, Oxford, 256-831-7222, www.ciderridgegolf.com 2. Dick’s Sporting Goods 1500 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256831-7739, www.dickssportinggoods.com. 3. (tie) Hibbett Sports 700 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-835-1489; 90 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-832-5533, www.hibbett.com. 3. (tie) Pine Hill Country Club 175 Pine Hill Drive, Anniston, 256-237-2633, www.pinehillcc.com

recreational vehicle dealer

crafter’s corner Haute Homemade ▶ The in Sunday’s Life section Stephen Gross/The Anniston Star/File

Silver Lakes Golf Course was voted Best Golf Course this year.

The Rabbit Hutch would like to Thank-You for voting us Best Gift Shop!

Thank You

Calhoun County for Voting LaMars #1 Bring in this ad

and enjoy

10% OFF oothie purchase

your donut or sm

Valid September

2011

1781 Hamric Drive East • Oxford, AL 36203

256-832-4353

In honor of you, our loyal customers and friends, we are proclaiming July Customer Appreciation Month! Come by soon and enjoy a fresh baked cookie while you browse through hundreds of items on Sale at 25% off, 50% off, and even 75% or more off!! And....we will be kicking off our new Customer Appreciation Cards. Hope to see you soon!

1026 Noble St. • 256-236-5541 Hours: 10-6 Mon.-Sat.

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July 1-July 7, 2011

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NHC

Calhoun County’s Only Continuum of Care

Whether you merely need assistance with a few activities of daily living provided by our Assisted Living... • VA Benefits Available Short Term Stays Reader’s Choice

Voted #1 Assisted Living

NHC Place • 1335 Greenbrier, Anniston • (256) 835-3959 www.nhcplaceanniston.com

NHC

“Care is Our Business” …or the more extensive care provided by our skilled nursing unit, Physical, Occupational or Speech Therapy provided by our Rehab Department at NHC HealthCare, NHC is Calhoun County’s Choice! Reader’s Choice

Voted #1 Nursing Home

Reader’s Choice

Voted #1 Rehab Facility

NHC HealthCare • 2300 Coleman Road, Anniston • (256) 831-5730 •www.nhchealthcareanniston.com Meeting the Complete HealthCare Needs of Calhoun County

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July 1-July 7, 2011

B E S T O F | A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T Local Artist 1. Monica Jones 2. Joseph Giri, www.josephgiri.com 3. Keitha Williams

Local radio/TV personality 1. Steve Stevens www.dailycomedy.com/u/stevestevens. 2. Chris Wright www.myspace.com/k98chris 3. Rick & Bubba www.rickandbubba.com

place for live music 1. Heroes: An American Grill 8896 McClellan Blvd., Jacksonville 256-405-4366, www.heroesgrille.com 2. Peerless Saloon 13 W. 10th St., Anniston 256-237-1899, www.peerlesssaloon.com 3. Smoking Moose 1214 Noble St., Anniston 256-741-9300

radio station 1. 97.9 FM, www.979wvok.com. 2. 105.9 FM, www.rock1059.net. 3. 95.5 FM, www.whmabig95.com.

video store 1. Video Warehouse 1630 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville 256-782-0260 2. Blockbuster 45 Elm St., Oxford 256-831-7299, www.blockbuster.com 3. Best Buy 1100 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford 256-832-0172, www.bestbuy.com

music store 1. Cosmic Debris 1010 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston 256-237-2327 2. CD Cellar 913 Noble St., Anniston 256-237-0760 3. Best Buy 1100 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford 256-832-0172, www.bestbuy.com

bookstore 1. Books-a-Million 900 Quintard Drive, Oxford 256-835-5331, www.booksamillion.com 2. Barnes & Noble www.barnesandnoble.com 3. Lifeway Christian Book Store 1150 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford 256-831-2453, www.lifewaystores.com

Giving the audience what they want

acedown, a five-man alternative rock band based out of Anniston, has been playing across the area and is receiving a steady following. Facedown boasts over 1,100 “likes” on its Facebook page, with a wall chock full of positive feedback. “We pretty much base what we do on what the people want to hear,” said guitarist Chris Johnson. What the people want is what the people get.” The band has been around since 2009 and was mainly founded by guitarist Jerry Davis. Facedown specializes in performing covers from artists like Nickelback, Shinedown and Godsmack. Band members compile their songlist by putting together a list of around 20 songs they are interested in, then they put the list out to fans to gauge their interest. Patrons often reciprocate by letting them know what they are interested in as well. “We take every one into consideration,” Johnson said. The band has plans to go into the studio and record, but for now, it is on a mission to increase its fanbase and play as much as it can this summer. But no matter how far Facedown goes, members will always be loyal to their hometown. “We love our Anniston people, we love our Gadsden people,” said bassist Michael Reid. “We’re still bringing the party to them.” Facedown will be at The Smoking Moose in Anniston on Aug. 6. For more information and to find out upcoming dates, visit the band’s Facebook page, or www.reverbnation.com/facedowntheband. — Erin Williams

Community Event 1. Relay for Life www.relayforlife.org/calhounal. 2. Woodstock 5K www.annistonrunners.com/woodstock. 3. Noble Street Festival www.noblestreetfestival.com.

Subm

itted

photo

Local Muscian/group 1. Facedown www.reverbnation.com/facedowntheband. 2. Fly by Radio www.fly-byradio.com. 3. The Robby Jordan Band www.facebook.com/TheRobbyJordanBand.

local tourist attraction

park

1. Anniston Museum of Natural History 800 Museum Drive, Anniston 256-237-6766, www.annistonmuseum.org. 2. Cheaha State Park 19644 Highway 281, Delta, 800-252-7275, www.stateparks.com/cheaha. 3. Berman Museum of World History 840 Museum Drive, Anniston 256-237-6261, www.bermanmuseum.org.

1. Oxford Lake Recreation Dr, Oxford 2. Cheaha State Park 19644 Highway 281, Delta 800-252-7275 www.stateparks.com/cheaha 3. Zinn Park West 14th St., Anniston

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b e s t o f | health Assisted living center

home health agency

1. NHC Place 1335 Greenbrier Road, Anniston 256-835-3959, www.nhcplaceanniston.com 2. Autumn Cove 4425 Greenbrier-Dear Road, Anniston, 256-831-7474, www.autumn-cove.com 3. Ladiga Manor 1116 James Hopkins Road, Jacksonville, 256-782-0960, www.ladigamanor.com

1. Alacare Home Health Services 1525 Greenbrier-Dear Road, Anniston, 256-831-2110, www.alacare.com. 2. Amedisys Home Health 111 Town Center Drive, Anniston, 256-820-2503, www.amedisys.com. 3. Mid South Home Health Service 105 Seaboard Ave., Piedmont, 256-4477760

Drug store

home health supplies

1. Downey Drug 2427 Alabama 202, Anniston, 256-2379426; 658 Valley Cub Drive, Anniston, 256820-4540. 2. Walgreens, www.walgreens.com. 3. CVS Pharmacy, www.cvs.com.

Emergency Care 1. C.A.R.E.S. 1325 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-7411339; 256 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-835-0076. 2. (tie) Regional Medical Center 400 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-235-5121, www.rmccares.org. 2. (tie) Stringfellow Memorial Hospital 301 E. 18th St., Anniston, 256-235-8955, www.stringfellowmemorial.com.

eye Care 1. Sarrell Dental and Eye Center 230 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-741-7340, www.sarrelldental.org. 2. (tie) Dr. David Chandler 1640 Pelham Road, S., Jacksonville, 256435-6680.; 2. (tie) Dr. Greg Milano 125 Central Ave., Oxford, 256-832-2252. 2. (tie) Dr. Gary Murrell 425 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-236-7516. 2. (tie) Dr. Robert Svenson 425 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-236-7516.

hearing center 1. Wright Hearing Center 1990 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-831-2292. 2. Beltone Hearing Aid Center 1047 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-4520799. 3. Grizzard Living Aids 1227 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-2006.

medical supply 1. Downey Medical 317 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-238-8991. 2. Anniston Health and Sickroom Supplies 5502 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-8207766.

T he best never rests

1. Downey Medical 317 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-238-8991. 2. Anniston Health and Sickroom Supplies 5502 McClellan Blvd., Anniston 256-820-7766. 3. Lincare 930 Keith Ave., Anniston, 256-240-7215.

pediatric center 1. Jose Caballero 901 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-236-4845. 2. Purohit Pediatric Clinic 516 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-7419799; 641 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-2601. 3. Pediatrics Plus 429 E. 9th St., Anniston, 256-241-2671.

independent living 1. Autumn Cove 4425 Greenbrier-Dear Road, Anniston, 256-831-7474, www.autumn-cove.com. 2. NHC Place 1335 Greenbrier Road, Anniston, 256835-3959, www.nhcplaceanniston.com. 3. Westminster Apartments 107 E. 20th St., Anniston, 256-237-2569.

Nursing home 1. NHC Healthcare 2300 Coleman Road, Anniston, 256-831-5730, www.nhccare.com. 2. Piedmont Health Care Center 20222 Alabama 9, Piedmont, 256-4478258. 3. Golden Living Center 1130 S. Hale St., Oxford, 256-831-0481.

rehab center 1. NHC Healthcare 2300 Coleman Road, Anniston, 256-8315730, www.nhccare.com. 2. Anniston Orthopedics 731 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-2364121. 3. Clinton Ray 1419 E. Hamric Drive, Oxford, 256-2414842.

Stephen Gross/The Anniston Star

Jenniffer Whyte leads a Zumba class at Anniston Fitness Center.

he Anniston Fitness Center has been serving local reidents for three decades — literally around the clock. The gym offers access to its equipment 24 hours a day, seven days a week. General manager Wynicka Hendrix-Palmer boasts that the center’s atmosphere is what keeps members coming back. “I truly believe when you offer an environment where people feel comfortable, where they feel warm, a clean environment, it makes a difference,” Hendrix-Palmer said. The gym offers a variety of classes, including zumba (of course). There’s also a 6:30 a.m. abdominals class taught by the center’s 74-year-old owner, Tom Buzan, as well as Hendrix-Palmer’s own “Insanity” class. Every member is given three free sessions with one of the center’s cer-

fitness/health club 1. Anniston Fitness Center 3114 McClellan Blvd., Anniston 256-237-4206 www.annistonfitnesscenter.com. (Office hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. MondayThursday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday.) 2. YMCA 29 W. 14th St., Anniston, 256-2389622; Oxford Y for Now, 1716 AL HWY 21 S., Oxford, 256-832-9622, www.ymcacalhoun.org. tified personal trainers. The center also offers childcare while members work out. Hendrix-Palmer was pleased to know the center was so highly rated by its members, but not surprised. “The best advertising we have is our customers,” she said. — Laura Camper

weight loss service

medical lab service

1. Anniston Weight Control 2427 Alabama 202, Anniston, 256-231-7999 2. Jennifer Scruggs, Bodymechanix Training Oxford, 256-591-7396 3. Weight Watchers 800-651-6000, www.weightwatchers.com.

1. LabCorp 1412 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-235-8983, www.labcorp.com. 2. Jacksonville Medical Center 1701 Pelham Road, S., Jacksonville, 256-435-4970, www.jacksonvillemedicalcenter.com.

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B E S T O F | p e opl e & plac e s Attorney 1. Joe Maloney Maloney & Vernon LLC, 805 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-5425. 2. Lori James-Brown 1431 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-236-4222. 3. Jerry Oglesby 1310 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-237-6611.

accountant 1. Edgar & Associates LLC 218 E. 12th St., Anniston, 256-237-1773. 2. Michael Askew 24 E. 12th St., Anniston, 256-237-1664. 3. Theresa Lackey Edgar & Associates LLC, 218 E. 12th St., Anniston, 256-237-1773.

local insurance agent 1. Margaret Hatley Dormon & Reynolds Insurance, 1227 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1768. 2. Mike Douglas, State Farm 408 Pelham Road, N., Jacksonville, 256-435-6712, www.mikedouglas.biz.

real estate agent 1. Joey Crews, Keller Williams Realty, 1805 Hillyer Robinson Parkway, Anniston, 256-310-2294, joeycrews.yourkwagent.com. 2. Amy Angel, Keller Williams Realty, 1805 Hillyer Robinson Parkway, Anniston, 256-241-1500, amyangel.yourkwagent.com. 3. (tie) Christy Benitez, Keller Williams Realty, 1805 Hillyer Robinson Parkway, Anniston, 256-241-1500, ezhomesal.yourkwagent.com 3. (tie) Ken Butler, Keller Williams Realty, 1805 Hillyer Robinson Parkway, Anniston, 256-241-1500, www.kenbutlerhomes.com

banker 1. (tie) Anthony Humphries, NobleBank 1. (tie) Kathy Crump, BB&T Alexandria 2. Lamar Sims, Cheaha Bank

nurse 1. Daniel Wade, NHC Place 2. Rhonda Brown, Jacksonville Medical Center 3. Debra Dunn, Calhoun County Health Department

Fighting fires for 34 years

iedmont fire Chief Jimmy Trammel, a 52year-old retiree, has volunteered with the fire department since 1977, while he was still in high school. Once he graduated, Trammel worked with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office for several years. In 1984, he became Piedmont’s police chief, a position he held until he retired in 1991. Since then, Trammel has worked several different jobs around the city, including at a local funeral home and, currently, at a pawn shop near the fire department. “The guy who owns the store lets me leave for a fire if I have to,” he said. Trammel said he prefers having a variety of things to fill his days. “I can enjoy retiring plus doing other things,” he said. “Doing something because you want to do it, it makes a difference.” The volunteer chief said he plans on sticking around for a while, maybe a few more terms. “I’m not getting that old yet.” — Alison Gene Smith

firefighters 1. Jimmy Trammell Piedmont Fire Department 2. Scotty Duke Anniston Fire Department 3. Gary Sparks Oxford Fire Department

Alison Gene Smith/The Anniston Star

Piedmont Fire Chief Jimmy Trammel has volunteered with the department since 1977 when he was still in high school.

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B E S T O F | people & places deputy sheriff 1. Matthew Wade Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office 2. Dan Malloy Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office 3. Carter Allen Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office

police officer 1. Clint Parris Anniston Police Department 2. Robert Cox Oxford Police Department

public official 1. Larry Amerson Calhoun County Sheriff 2. Leon Smith Oxford Mayor 3. Eli Henderson Calhoun County Commissioner

religious leader 1. Dr. Roland Brown Golden Springs Baptist Church, 3 Robertson Road, Anniston, 256-236-1325 2. Dr. Rick Reaves Hill Crest Baptist Church, 5117 Post Oak Road, Anniston, 256-236-1464 3. Wayne Dunaway Ohatchee Church of Christ, 3227 Alabama 62, Ohatchee, 256-892-0011

place of worship 1. Hill Crest Baptist Church 5117 Post Oak Road, Anniston, 256-236-1464, www.experiencehillcrest.com. 2. Parker Memorial Baptist Church 1205 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-5628 www.parkermemorial.com. 3. West Anniston Baptist Church 901 Carter St., Anniston, 256-236-4835.

church choir 1. Hill Crest Baptist Church 5117 Post Oak Road, Anniston, 256-236-1464, www.experiencehillcrest.com 2. Parker Memorial Baptist Church 1205 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-5628, www.parkermemorial.com 3. Anniston First United Methodist Church 1400 Noble St., Anniston, 256-236-5605, www.annistonfirst.org

place to work 1. Sarrell Dental Center 230 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-741-7340, www.sarrelldental.org 2. AT&T 3. NHC Place 1335 Greenbrier Road, Anniston, 256-835-3959, www.nhcplaceanniston.com

neighborhood 1. (tie) Buckhorn, Weaver 1. (tie) Indian Oaks, Saks 2. Sherwood Forrest, Oxford

cosmetic/plastic surgery

pharmacist

1. Ken Urquhart Urquhart & Stewart Plastic Surgery, MediSpa & Laser Center, 171 Town Center Drive, Anniston, 256-237-1625, www.urquhartstewart.com 2. Shelley Ray Prestige Medical Spa, 1419 Hamric Drive, E., Oxford, 256-2416772, www.prestigemedicalspa.com. 3. Jason Jack Birmingham Plastic Surgery, 2000 Stonegate Trail, Birmingham, 250-298-8660, www.birminghamspecialists.com.

1. Nancy Schewanick NHC Healthcare, 2300 Coleman Road, Anniston, 256-831-5730 2. Paul Graham Downey Drug, 6312 U.S. Highway 431, Alexandria, 256-820-4541 3. Bob Slay Walmart, 5560 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-820-3326

apartment complex

cosmetic/plastic surgery

1. Cane Creek Apartment Community in McClellan 17 Shipley Road, Anniston, 256-820-9810, www.canecreekapartments 2. Grove Apartments 351 Nisbet St. N.W., Jacksonville, 256-782-1285, www.gogrove.com 3. Indian Hills Apartments 1436 Nocoseka Trail, Anniston, 256-831-7462, www.indianhillsapts.net

hotel 1. The Victoria Inn 1604 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-0503, www.thevictoria.com 2. Hilton Garden Inn 280 Colonial Drive, Oxford, 256-831-0083, www.hiltongardeninn.hilton.com 3. Hampton Inn 210 Colonial Drive, Oxford, 256-831-8958, www.hamptoninn.hilton.com

chiropractor 1. Tony Bolton Bolton Chiropractic Center, 1401 Hillyer Robinson Parkway, Anniston, 256-835-3511 2. Ron Wheeler Wheeler Chiropractic Clinic, 708 Wilmer Ave., Anniston, 256-238-8300, www.wheelerchiroclinic.com 3. Paul Ryan Ryan Chiropractic, 655 Creekside Dr., Oxford, 256-832-0077

dentist 1. Sarrell Dental Center 230 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-741-7340, www.sarrelldental.org. 2. Don King 420 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-3432. 3. David Cummings 1127 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-237-2851.

doctor/physician 1. Shan Young 1701 Pelham Road, S., Jacksonville, 256-435-1399, www.shanyoung.com. 2. (tie) David Chalk Anniston Family Practice, 400 E. Eighth St., Anniston, 256-237-8527 2. (tie) Shelley Ray Prestige Medical Spa, 1419 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-241-6772. www.prestigemedicalspa.com 2. (tie) Vance Moore Oxford Family Practice, 6 Allen Parkway, Oxford, 256-831-7100

massage therapist 1. Debbie Babcock Prestige Medical Spa, 1419 Hamric Dr. E., Oxford, 256-241-6772, www.prestigemedicalspa.com 2. Amy Leahey Licensed Massage Therapy Associates, 313 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-2450

auto salesperson 1. Tim Hodges J.D. Byrider, 916 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-2221 2. Rob Jones Sunny King Toyota, 2570 U.S. Hwy 78 E., Anniston, 800-365-3001 3. Billy Newman Cooper Chevrolet Buick, 1300 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-4481.

home interior decorator 1. Scott Skinner STS Decorating Consultant, Anniston, 256-591-7148.

hearing professional 1. Beatrice Smith, Anniston Ear Nose and Throat, 901 Leighton Ave., Suite 601, Anniston, 256-236-4426. 2. Wright Hearing Center, 1990 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-831-2292. 3. Paul Stephens, 1323 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-835-8837.

Thank you for Selecting Us #1 Reader’s Choice • Kid friendly • Family style Seafood • Large parties welcome Restaurant! (256) 238-0097 • 3220 McClellan Blvd. Anniston AL Mon. - Thurs. 5-9 p.m. • Fri. 5-10 p.m. • Sat. 4-10 p.m. • Sun. 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

www.topoftheriverrestaurant.com

July 1-July 7, 2011

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www.bamaescapes.com B e s t o f | b u siness & financial real estate company 1. Keller Williams Realty Group 1805 Hillyer-Robinson Industrial Parkway, Anniston, 256-241-1500, www.kw.com. 2. ERA King Real Estate Co. 1530 Hillyer-Robinson Industrial Parkway, Anniston, 256-831-5656 www.eraking.com. 3. Harris McKay Realty Co. 123 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-2360377, www.harrismckayrealty.com.

bank 1. Noble Bank & Trust www.noblebank.com. 2. Cheaha Bank www.cheahabank.com. 3. Regions Bank www.regions.com.

home mortgage 1. BB&T 1111 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1570, www.bbt.com. 2. Jackson Mortgage Co., 1119 Leighton Ave., Anniston, 256-237-5177, www.jacksonmortgagecompany.com. 3. Wells Fargo 1000 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-741-4000, www.wellsfargo.com.

credit union

July 1-July 7, 2011

For the latest in local news, visit www.AnnistonStar.com

1. AOD Federal Credit Union 256-237-9494 or 800-637-0299 www.aodfcu.com. 2. (tie) Fort McClellan Credit Union, Anniston Administrative Office, 1731 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-2113, www.fortmclncu@aol.com. 2. (tie) Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Federal Credit Union 200 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1684, www.amfirst.org.

brokerage/ investments 1. Wells Fargo Advisors www.wellsfargoadvisors.com. 2. Mike Poe Financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors 101 E. 11th St., Anniston, 256-236-6346. 3. Doug Huie Financial consultant with AXA Advisors, 711-C E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-236-1100.

insurance agency 1. Alfa www.alfainsurance.com. 2. State Farm www.statefarm.com. 3. Allstate Insurance www.allstate.com.

Celebrate Independence Day

Carnival

June 29 - July 4 Purchase advanced tickets at Quintard Mall Guest Services.

Mall Wide Sale July 1-4

Shop Savings throughout the entire mall!

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Best of | HOME & GARDEN BUilding supply 1. Lowe’s Home Improvement 4901 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-499-9030; 1836 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-835-8266. www.lowes.com. 2. Oxford Lumber 1400 Barry St., Oxford, 256-831-0540, www.oxfordlumber.com. 3. Webb Concrete and Building Materials 1021 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-9173, www.webbconcrete.com.

carpet/flooring dealer 1. Floors To Go 215 H St., Anniston, 256-231-5600, www.floorstogoal.com. 2. Abbey Carpet 1008 U.S. 431, Anniston, 256-231-0008, anniston.abbeycarpet.com. 3. Foote Brothers Carpet One 1017 U.S. 431, Anniston, 256-236-8400, www.footebroscarpetoneanniston.com.

APPLIANCE DEALER Stephen Gross/The Anniston Star

Rick Marsh, co-owner of Valley Tractor with his wife, Jill, said he makes customer service his top priority.

For big farms or small yards

a lley Tractor and Farm Equipment in Alexandria offers the same quality service to every customer, whether they own a large commercial farm or are simply trimming weeds on a tiny front yard. “Our main claim to fame is that we give excellent customer service both before and after the sale,” said Rick Marsh, who, along with wife, Jill, owns Valley Tractor. “People feel like they can trust us, and that’s our No. 1 priority.” In addition to carrying the full line of Cub Cadet lawn-care equipment, both commercial and residential grade, the store will soon begin selling

less of where it was originally pur-

lawn equipment dealer chased. 1. Valley Tractor and farm Equipment 7111 U.S. 431, Alexandria, 256-820-9111. 2. Lowe’s Home Improvement 4901 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-499-9030; 1836 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-835-8266, www.lowes.com. 3. Sears Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-741-8300, www.sears.com. the full line of Mahindra Tractor. Valley Tractor also provides parts and repair for any make and model lawn care or farm equipment, regard-

With a number of large farms in the area being divided and sold, Marsh said that it’s residential equipment that sells the best. Valley Tractor has made customer service a priority for its female clientele. “A lot of women are afraid that they might be taken advantage of since they often don’t have the depth of knowledge of the industry,” Marsh said. “But we always shoot straight and are willing to go that extra mile, answering all questions and making sure they know how to safely operate a piece of equipment.” — Brett Buckner

“People feel like they can trust us, and that’s our No. 1 priority.” — Rick Marsh, co-owner of Valley Tractor

1. Lowe’s Home Improvement 4901 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-499-9030; 1836 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-835-8266. www.lowes.com. 2. Sears Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-741-8300, www.sears.com. 3. Home Depot Oxford Exchange, Oxford, 256-832-2279, www.homedepot.com

Mattress store 1. Bedzz Express 556 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-835-1171, www.bedzzzexpress.com. 2. Mattress Max 2500 U.S. Highway 431, Anniston, 256237-5115; 4414 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-237-3882; 813 Snow St., Oxford, 256831-5357. 3. Comfort Furniture and Mattress 1722 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-832-9943.

home & Garden Store 1. Lowe’s Home Improvement 4901 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-499-9030; 1836 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-835-8266, www.lowes.com. 2. Home Depot Oxford Exchange, Oxford, 256-832-2279, www.homedepot.com. 3. Ace Hardware 1400 Barry St., Oxford, 256-831-0540, www.acehardware.com.

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www.bamaescapes.com

July 1-July 7, 2011

Best of | HOME & GARDEN moving service 1. Hills Moving & Storage 4245 Hill St., Anniston, 256-237-3581, www.hillsmovingco.com. 2. David Daniels Transfer 470 Angel Drive, Jacksonville, 256-435-8837, 256-490-6369, www.quicktransportsolutions.com. 3. U-Haul www.uhaul.com.

Furniture store 1. Midtown Outlet 1730 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-2642. 2. Haverty’s 1701 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-831-4740, www.havertys.com. 3. Furniture Outlet 1006 Noble St., Anniston, 256-236-7272.

lawn care service 1. Woodrow Lawn and Turf Management 256-310-2970. 2. Jason Pahman 256-835-6708.

heating & air conditioning service 1. Mr. Refrigeration 1410 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-1904. 2. Phil Denson RMS HVAC Services, 1395 Choccolocco Road, Anniston, 256-452-8610. 3. Cleghorn HVAC Services 702 Old Gadsden Highway, Anniston, 256-310-1256, www.cleghornhvac.com.

plumbing service 1. Welch Plumbing 119 Drayton St. S.E., Jacksonville, 256-310-4834. 2. Barrett Plumbing 4619 Sprague Ave., Anniston, 256-238-1941. 3. Haney Plumbing 208 1/2 Calhoun St., Piedmont, 256-447-9487.

pest control 1. Cook’s Pest Control Anniston, 256-237-5076, www.cookspest.com. 2. Monday’s Pest Control 4526 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-237-4199. 3. Oxford Termite & Pest Control 1982 U.S. 78, E., Oxford, 256-831-0209.

home accessories 1. Kirklands Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-835-6018, www.kirklands.com. 2. Webb Home 1021 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-9173, www.webbconcrete.com. 3. Hobby Lobby 1500 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-832-1540, www.hobbylobby.com.

@AnnistonStar

AnnistonStar.com

THANK YOU CALHOUN COUNTY! Thank you for voting us “Best Veterinarian in Calhoun County!” More importantly, thank you for choosing the highest quality veterinary healthcare offered for your pet. We promise we will do our best to keep your trust. Animal Medical Center maintains standards of accreditation as stipulated by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), which focus on quality of care, medical outcomes, and client services. In order to maintain status, we must meet more than 800 individual requirements. Why? Because we know you expect our best.

719 Quintard Avenue, Anniston 24 Hour Emergency Service (256) 236-8387/www.amcvets.com

Treating your pets as if they were our own.

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July 1-July 7, 2011

www.bamaescapes.com

RMC Heart Team

“Elective PCI should be performed at hospitals with onsite surgical backup” –The American Heart Association “Performing elective PCI at centers without surgical backup is not recommended.” –The American College of Cardiology

Timely Appointments by Referral Ayman Abdul-Ghani, MD Dr. Ghani, is a Cardiac Surgeon and Thoracic Oncologist who is board certified in Cardiothoracic Surgery and General Surgery. He completed his Fellowship in Thoracic Oncology at Harvard University, his Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program at the University Hospitals of Cleveland/Case Western University and General Surgery Residency at the University of Hawaii Integrated Surgical Residency Program. He also trained in Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital/England, UK. He is a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. In addition to performing cardiac coronary and valve surgery, he has a special interest in thoracic oncology and minimally invasive thoracic procedures. Dennis Bonner, MD A specialist in Interventional Cardiology, Dr. Bonner has more than 25 years of health care experience including time spent as a flight surgeon for the U.S. Army. Dr. Bonner received his medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Dr. Bonner is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease. He is a member of the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians, the American College of Cardiology, the Medical Association State of Alabama and the Association of Black Cardiologists. Mohamed Jasser, MD A specialist in Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology with more than 20 years of health care experience, Dr. Jasser is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Interventional Cardiology, and Endovascular Medicine. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology.

Mohammad Kamran, MD A specialist in Interventional Cardiology, Dr. Kamran has more than 20 years of health care experience in Cardiology and Internal Medicine. Dr. Kamran is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology, as well as board certified by the Heart Rhythm Society for implantation of pacemakers and internal cardiac defibrillators, and is also a fellow of the American College of Cardiology.

256-231-8880 • www.rmccares.org

John Nwogu, MD With more than 10 years of health care experience in Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Dr. Nwogu is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine, in Echocardiography by the National Board of Echocardiography, as well as in Nuclear Cardiology by the Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, the American Society of Echocardiography and the American College of Cardiology. Osita Onyekwere, MD With more than 15 years of experience in Cardiology and Internal Medicine, He is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, the American Board of Medical Specialties (Cardiovascular Diseases) and the National Board of Medical Examiners. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a member of various medical societies. Dr. Onyekwere is an active member with the Alabama Chapter of the American College of Cardiology. Mahomed Salame, MD A specialist in Interventional Cardiology with more than 20 years of health care experience, Dr. Salame received his medical training at the University of London and the University of Cambridge, Dr. Salame received his cardiology training at the University of Leicester and University of Sheffield, and his Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology from Emory University. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Interventional Cardiology, and Endovascular Medicine. Masumi Yamamuro, MD Dr. Yamamuro brings more than 25 years of surgical experience to RMC. He is highly experienced in heart surgery and performs such procedures as coronary bypass surgery, valve surgery, thoracic aortic surgery, arrhythmia bypass surgery and transmyocardial revascularization surgery. He is board certified in Thoracic Surgery. He is a member of both the Japanese Board of Surgery and the American Board of Surgery and a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons. Prior to joining the RMC Heart Team, Dr. Yamamuro trained at the University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham with Albert Pacifico, MD.

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www.bamaescapes.com

July 1-July 7, 2011

B e s t o f | s h opp i n g

‘Jesus Saves, We buy guns’: Signs of a good pawn shop

F Stephen Gross/The Anniston Star

Fred Atkinson, owner of AAA Pawn Shop, looks at a rifle he has for sale at his shop on McClellan Boulevard in Anniston.

red Adkinson is the first to tell you that the prominent signs on the front of his pawn shop draw in a lot of new business each week. “Jesus Saves” reads one posted in front of AAA Pawn Shop on McClellan Boulevard in Anniston. And next to the Christian message: “We Buy Guns.” “I had those signs put up two or three years ago,” said Adkinson. “I even had a gentleman who stopped from Connecticut riding through the country to take pictures of the shop.” Adkinson laughed. Yeah, the signs attract a lot of customers, but what keeps them coming back, Adkinson said, is a simple business philosophy. “We just try to treat people with respect

Convenience store

office supply store

1. Mapco, www.mapcoexpress.com. 2. Grub Mart 425 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-831-5193; 5333 U.S., Alexandria, 256-820-1615; 420 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, 256-7820007. 3. Chevron, www.chevron.com.

1. Office Max 620 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-238-8691; 900 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256831-1944. 2. Crawford Office Supply 301 S. Leighton Ave., Anniston; 256-2373310. 3. Office Depot, www.officedepot.com.

discount store 1. Dollar General, www.dg.com. 2. Walmart, www.walmart.com. 3. Target, 400 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-231-2900, www.target.com.

rental center 1. Aaron’s, www.aarons.com. 2. Rent-A-Center, www.rentacenter.com.

pet store 1. PetSmart 70 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-832-1290. 2. Pickette’s Feed & Pet 3200 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-237-3355; 1822 Highway 78 E., Oxford, 256-835-4942, www.pickettesfeedandpet.com. 3. PetCo 308 E. Meighan Blvd., Gadsden, 256-547-6696, petco.com.

computer dealer 1. Matt’s Computer and Wifi 1590 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-2522. 2. Best Buy 1100 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-832-0172, www.bestbuy.com. 3. Office Max 620 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-238-8691; 900 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-831-1944.

photo studio 1. Jerrod Brown Studios 1820 28th Ave. S., Homewood, 256-525-6503, www.jerrodbrown.com 2. Studio One Photography 1313 Christine Ave., Anniston, 256-2371502, www.studiooneanniston.com. 3. Stacks of Photos www.stacksofphotos.com.

cont i nued on pa g e 1 7

pawn shop 1. AAA Pawn Shop 5910 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-820-4697. 2. (tie) Quintard Jewelry & Pawn 1920 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-7696 2. (tie) 144 Pawn Shop 8310 Alabama 144, Alexandria, 256-892-3144 2. (tie) 202 Pawn Shop 6050 Alabama 202, Anniston, 256-237-4202

and dignity. A lot of people come in here and hurting through no fault of their own,” he said. “We’ll work with them … to help them borrow money or pledge merchandise like a gun or a TV.” — Cameron Steele

Thank you for voting Smith Cleaners #1 & Christian Corner Meats #2 Butcher! Stop in, let us show you why! Located at 1002 US 431 North in Saks for voting

Bonnie Ray’s k n a h T Bake Shoppe Number One Bakery You YOURin Calhoun County Special through July 24th

Buy 1 Cupcake Get 1 FREE 5818 McClellan Blvd • Anniston, AL • (256) 847-7303

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July 1-July 7, 2011

www.bamaescapes.com

b e s t o f | b e au t y & fa s h i o n Department store 1. Dillard’s Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-835-2819. 2. Kohl’s 1600 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-832-8851. 3. Walmart www.walmart.com.

shoe store 1. Dillard’s Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-835-2819. 2. Rack Room Shoes 150 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-831-1709. 3. (tie) Shoe Carnival 110 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-831-0493. 3. (tie) Shoe Department 700 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-831-6594.

clothing store - women’s 1. Dillard’s Quintard Mall, Oxford 256-835-2819. 2. Sweet Peas Boutique 1525 Coleman Road, Oxford, 256-835-3326. 3. Kohl’s 1600 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-832-8851.

clothing store - men’s 1. Dillard’s Quintard Mall, Oxford 256-835-2819. 2. Wakefield’s 1212 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-9521. 3. On Time Fashions 527 Quintard Drive, Oxford 256-831-9444.

clothing store - children’s 1. The Children’s Place 90 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-831-1875. 2. Martin’s 3200 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-2370349; 900 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-2353765. 3. Gap Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-832-4662, www.gap.com

jewelry store 1. Couch’s Jewelers 15 E. 10th St., Anniston, 256-237-4628; 262 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256831-4628. 2. Griffin’s Jewelers 1028 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-9544; Pelham Plaza, Jacksonville, 256-4354076. 3. Stinson & Howard Fine Jewelry 501 Main St., Oxford, 256-831-7747.

beauty shop 1. Monet Salon & Day Spa 328 E. Blue Mountain Road, Anniston, 256-237-1107, www.MonetSalonandDaySpa.com. 2. Visions Salon 1004 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-9591. 3. (tie) Shear Image 103 James St. S.E., Jacksonville, 256-435-2255. 3. (tie) Studio Elite 1425 Wilmer Ave., Anniston, 256-235-0772.

day spa 1. Prestige Medical Spa 1419 Hamric Drive, Oxford, 256-2416772, www.prestigemedicalspa.com. 2. Monet Salon & Day Spa 328 E. Blue Mountain Road, Anniston, 256-237-1107, www.MonetSalonandDaySpa.com. 3. Spa Lillie 1525 Coleman Road, Oxford, 256-238-4330, www.spalillie.net.

tanning salon 1. Club Paradise Tanning 175 Plaza Lane, Oxford, 256-835-9400. 2. Always Summer Tanning Salon 829 Snow St., Oxford, 256-832-0333. 3. (tie) Jacksonville Tanning Salon 115 Francis St. E., Jacksonville, 256-435-1770. 3. (tie) Sun Fever Tanning, Nail & Hair Designs 6408 U.S. 431, Alexandria, 256-820-4386. 3. (tie) Tans Down Under 1521 Greenbrier-Dear Road, Anniston, 256-832-1313.

Stephen Gross/The Anniston Star

Ann-Marie Green cuts her nephew’s hair at Jack’s Barber Shop in Weaver. The business was started by her father in 1962.

Cutting hair for three generations

oyalty to Jack’s Barber Shop in Weaver transcends generations. It began in 1962, when Jack Green took over the small barber shop in the bottom of a two-story building in the heart of town. Jack Green retired years ago, but today two of his adult children, John Green and Ann-Marie Green, run the place with skill and common sense passed down from their father. “We’ve been blessed with generations of our dad’s customers,” John Green said. Josh Doggrell, a long-time customer, can attest to that. He began coming to the shop with his dad decades ago. Now he brings his own son, Tyler, age 6.

barber shop 1. Jack’s Barber Shop 202-A Main St., Weaver 256-820-6579 2. The Roffler Shop 1111 Williams Ave., Anniston 256-237-5801 3. D&R Barber Shop 2750 Pelham Road S., Anniston 256-782-1558 Doggrell’s dad doesn’t have much hair to cut these days, but he’s still loyal to Jack’s, Doggrell said. “My dad goes here, too, and he really doesn’t need a haircut,” he said. “I’ll get to that point, too.” — Laura Johnson

17 ◆

www.bamaescapes.com Veterinarian clinic 1. Animal Medical Center 719 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-8387, www.amcvets.com 2. Greenbrier Animal Clinic 725 Greenbrier-Dear Rd, Anniston 256-237-9585 3. Cheaha Animal Hospital 915 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-5768

Funeral home 1. Miller Funeral Home & Crematory 110 E. Hamric Drive, Oxford, 256-831-4611 2. K L Brown Memory Chapel 620 Golden Springs Road, Anniston, 256-231-2334 3. Gray Brown-Service Mortuary & Crematory 1329 Wilmer Ave., Anniston, 256-236-3441

child care

July 1-July 7, 2011

commercial printing 1. Moore Printing 1025 Gurnee Ave., Anniston, 256-236-6713 2. Minuteman Press 122 E. 19th St., Anniston, 256-236-1237 3. Sharp Binding & Printing Co. 546 Valley Cub Dr., Alexandria, 256-820-1337

travel agency 1. R&R Travel Service 407 Choccolocco St., Oxford, 256-831-2323 2. AAA-Alabama 653 Snow St., Oxford, 256-832-3101 3. B&B Travel 3805 Rainbow Drive, Rainbow City, 256-413-0701, 800-416-4419 www.bbvacations.com

rental center 1. Aaron’s, www.aarons.com. 2. Rent-A-Center, www.rentacenter.com.

1. Kids First Childcare Center 1710 Hillyer-Robinson Industrial Parkway, Anniston, 256-831-8881. 2. Childcare Network 1425 Hillyer-Robinson Industrial Parkway, Anniston, 256-831-9746. 3. Meadowbrook Abundant Childcare 1125 Meadowbrook Court, Oxford, 256-831-6877, www.mbcoxford.org.

dry cleaners

gift shop

1. Smith Cleaners 1002 US Highway 431 # A, 256-820-8884 2. Mike’s Romac Cleaners 635 Creekside Drive, Oxford, 256-831-5002 3. Stewart Cleaners 121 E. 11th St., Anniston, 256-237-1671

1. The Rabbit Hutch 1026 Noble St., Anniston, 256-236-5541. 2. Tyson Art and Frame 3326 Henry Road, Anniston, 256-236-9910 3. Lynn’s Hallmark 700 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-835-0699.

cellular sales 1. Verizon www.verizonwireless.com 2. AT&T, www.att.com/wireless 3. Boost Mobile, www.boostmobile.com

Reader’s Choice

florist 1. Evans Flower Shop & Gifts 1014-B Noble St., Anniston, 256-236-2589. 2. Miller Florist &

Gifts, 50 E. Hamric Drive, Oxford, 256-835-0911. 3. Weaver Flower Shop, 601 Astor Ave., Weaver, 256-820-2593.

Best Car Wash

On behalf of the Tidal Wave Auto Spa family we would like to thank you for voting us the BEST CAR WASH in Calhoun and surrounding counties. Since we opened almost 4 years ago, we have had the privilege to see our business continue to grow, plus we’ve had tremendous success with our Tidal Wave Fast Pass, and other features that make Tidal Wave, a state-of-the-art Car Wash. We are proud to assist area schools, churches and non-profit organizations reach their fundraising goals every year! We are honored to be a part of this amazing community, and it is because of You our customers, who have become our loyal friends and family. We sincerely appreciate this amazing award and look forward to serving this community for many years.

Sincerely, The Tidal Wave Family — Jay Deese

15 YEAR FIXED-RATE MORTGAGE as low as

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gage Finan s Curren AODF ced with tly CU E ligibl e!

*4.7179 APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Loan Example: A 15-year fixed rate loan for $75,000 at 4.65% would require 180 monthly payments of $579.51. The terms used in this example are for illustrative purposes only and the actual terms you receive may be different depending on your credit worthiness. Rate will be fixed for 15 years. 1% origination fee waived. This offer applies to Real Estate purchases and/or refinances. This offer excludes Land Loans, Home Equity Loans, and Lines of Credit. All loans subject to credit approval. Certain restrictions apply. Private mortgage insurance is based on loan to value. Mortgage insurance may be required on certain products and PMI could increase APR. Financing available up to 90% on refinances and up to 95% on new purchases. 10% down payment required on refinances and 5% down payment required on new purchases.Payment example does not include tax and/or insurance escrows, if applicable, the actual payment obligation will be greater. Limited time offer, promotion may be discontinued without notice.

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July 1-July 7, 2011

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Be st of | au tomotive auto parts store 1. Advance Auto Parts www.advanceautoparts.com. 2. O’Reilly Auto Parts www.oreillyauto.com. 3. Auto Zone www.autozone.com.

auto rental agency 1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car 1704 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-832-5455, www.enterprise.com. 2. Avis Rent A Car 1100 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-238-1261, www.avis.com. 3. Hertz Local Edition 901 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 205-9809271; 653 Snow St., Oxford, 256-831-6479, www.hertz.com.

auto service 1. Brown Radiator and Auto 902 Clydesdale Ave., Anniston, 256-237-8523. 2. Alexandria Muffler & Brake Service 68 Gladden Lane East, Alexandria, 256-820-2227 3. Mike’s Auto & Tire Service 630 Quintard Ave., Anniston 256-237-1203.

Body shop 1. Barrett Body Shop & Wrecker Service 2863 Cedar Springs Road, Jacksonville, 256-820-7978, www.barrettbodyshop. com. 2. Carroll’s Body Shop & Wrecker 104 Lakeview Drive, Piedmont, 256-447-6532. 3. Skinner Body Shop 409 Williams St., Oxford, 256-831-2860.

Car wash 1. Tidal Wave Carwash 65 Plaza Lane, Oxford, 256-835-1053. 2. Xtreme Clean 5560 McClellan Blvd., Anniston. (in front of Wal-Mart) 3. Ultimate Touch Detail Shop 259 Lenlock Lane, Anniston, 256-8470096; 1441 E. Hamric Drive, Oxford, 256831-4002.

new car dealer 1. Sunny King Toyota 2570 U.S. 78 E., Anniston, 256-835-0800, www.sunnykingtoyota.com. 2. Cooper Chevrolet 1300 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-2364481, www.cooperchevrolet.com. 3. Sunny King Honda 2580 U.S. 78 E., Anniston, 256-835-1000, www.sunnykinghonda.com.

used car dealer 1. Costner Auto Sales Oxford, 256-835-8101; 7590 U.S. 431, Alexandria, 256-820-7500. 2. Cooper Chevrolet 1300 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-2364481, www.cooperchevrolet.com. 3. Buster Miles 685 Ross St., Heflin, 800-239-7080, 800239-7081, www.bustermiles.com.

Stephen Gross/The Anniston Star

Mike’s Auto & Tire Service placed in three different categories.

Tire store 1. Mike’s Auto & Tire Service 630 Quintard Ave., Anniston 256-237-1203. 2. OK Tire Store 201 Memorial Drive, Piedmont 256-447-9701. 3. Oxford Tire Service 1609 Hamric Dr., E., Oxford 256-831-6320.

DOWNEY MEDICAL Oxygen and Medical Equipment

transmission shop 1. Cooper Chevrolet 1300 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston 256-236-4481, www.cooperchevrolet.com. 2. AAMCO Transmissions 1109 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston 256-238-1148, www.aamco.com. 3. Sunny King Toyota 2570 U.S. 78, E., Anniston 256-835-0800, www.sunnykingtoyota.com.

Oil change 1. Express Oil Change & Service Center www.expressoil.com. 2. Mike’s Auto & Tire Service 630 Quintard Ave., Anniston. 256-237-1203. 3. Alexandria Muffler & Brake Service 68 Gladden Lane East, Alexandria 256-820-2227.

“Home-owned...Home-operated”

Home Oxygen • CPAP • Mask Power Wheelchairs • Diabetic Shoes Diabetic Supplies • Seat Lift Chairs Scooters, Braces, Crutches, Mastectomy Apparel, TENS Unit

7590 Hwy. 431 N. • Anniston, Intersection of Hwy. 431 & Hwy 144 Local: 256.820.7500 or Toll Free: 866-759-5366 www.lenncostnerautosales.com

Q U I N T A R D i

Thank You for Voting us Reader’s Choice #1 Used Car Lot Our customers mean a lot to us… We look forward to serving you in the years to come.

Leighton

#1 Used Car Lot

J’ville

Oxford

Christine

Reader’s Choice

N S

DOWNEY MEDICAL

(across from RMC Hospital)

EAST 10TH STREET RMC

Visit Our Showroom 317 East 10th St. Anniston

(256) 238-8991

www.bamaescapes.com

19 ◆

We appreciate our patients and having been chosen

#1 in Emergency Care

Rodney V. Snead, MD Robert L. Cater, MD Michael Gaines, MD Howard E. McVeigh, MD Michael W. Proctor, MD

The Na me Say s it All! r’s e d a e R oice Ch

1325 Quintard Ave. Anniston

256 Oxford Exchange Blvd. Oxford

(256) 741-1339

(256) 835-0076

July 1-July 7, 2011

www.bamaescapes.com

July 1-July 7, 2011

b e s t o f | foo d & d r ink overall grocery store 1. Winn-Dixie, www.winndixie.com. 2. Walmart, www.walmart.com. 3. Dorsey’s Super Market, 601 Main St., Oxford, 256-831-5504.

grocery prices 1. Walmart, www.walmart.com. 2. Winn Dixie, www.winndixie.com. 3. Food Outlet, www.shopfoodoutlet.com.

health food 1. Friends Natural Market, 655 Creekside Drive, Oxford, 256-835-9557. 2. GNC, Quintard Mall, 256-831-5202; Oxford Exchange, 256-831-7021, www. gnc.com. 3. St. John’s Nutrition, 832 Snow St., Oxford, 256-835-9588.

bakery 1. Bonnie Ray’s Bake Shoppe, 5818 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-847-7303. 2. Too Nice to Slice, 204A Grace St., Oxford, 256-403-5396, www.cakestoonicetoslice.com. 3. OMG! Donuts, 1620 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-9187.

butcher/meats 1. Thompson Meat Processing, 987 Halls Chapel Road, Alexandria, 256-820-3138. 2. Christian Corner Meats, 1002 U.S. 431, Anniston, 256-237-3518. 3. Big B Grocery Outlet, 3400 Choccolocco Road, Anniston, 256-741-8817, www.bigbgrocery.com.

produce 1. Winn-Dixie, www.winndixie.com. 2. B&B Produce, 1000 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-3625. 3. Walmart, www.walmart.com.

asian restaurants 1. Fuji Japanese Cuisine, 218 Davis Loop, Oxford, 256-835-8788. 2. Ono Grill, 2900 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-237-5859. 3. China Luck Restaurant, 503 Quintard Drive, Oxford, 256-831-5221, www.chinaluckrestaurant.com.

bar/lounge 1. Heroes: An American Grill, 8896 McClellan Blvd., Jacksonville, 256-405-4366, www.heroesgrille.com. 2. Peerless Grille, 15 W. 10th St., Anniston, 256-237-1899, www. peerlesssaloon.com. 3. Smoking Moose, 1214 Noble St., Anniston, 256-741-9300.

barbecue 1. Dad’s BBQ, 3105 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-238-4323; 710 S. Noble St., Anniston, 256-231-2459. 2. Brad’s Barbecue, 1809 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-831-7878, www.bradsbbq. vpweb.com. 3. Betty’s BBQ, 401 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1411.

breakfast 1. Cracker Barrel, 220 Leon Smith Parkway, Oxford, 256-835-6700, www. crackerbarrel.com. 2. IHOP, 1904 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-8323116, www.ihop.com. 3. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com.

catering 1. Classic on Noble, 1024 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-5388, www.classiconnoble.com. 2. Heroes: An American Grille, 8896 McClellan Blvd., Jacksonville, 256405-4366, www.heroesgrille.com. 3. Alexander’s the Great Events, 1405 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-835-0560.

pizza

chicken fingers

french fries

1. Mata’s Greek Pizza, 1708 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-3100, www. matasgreekpizza.com. 2. Pizza Hut, 322 E. Blue Mountain Road, Anniston, 256-237-3251; 202 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-831-7721; 813 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-4355202, www.pizzahut.com. 3. Papa John’s, 5818 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-820-7272; 1225 Snow St., Oxford, 256-820-7272; 702 S. Pelham Road, Jacksonville, 256-435-7272, www. papajohns.com.

1. Zaxby’s, 3234 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-237-3132; 91 Colonial Drive, Oxford, 256-832-4771, www.zaxbys.com. 2. Betty’s BBQ, 401 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1411. 3. Jefferson’s, 230 Spring Branch Road, Oxford, 256-835-5858; 407 Pelham Road N., Jacksonville, 256-435-3456, www. jeffersonsrestaurant.com.

1. McDonald’s, www.mcdonalds.com. 2. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com. 3. Wendy’s, www.wendys.com.

sandwiches 1. Subway, 2301 Alabama 202 (inside Texaco), Anniston, 256-237-4848; 5560 McClellan Blvd. (inside Wal-Mart), Anniston, 256-820-3040; 1000 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-238-8222; 204 Grace (inside Texaco), Oxford, 256-835-5383, www.subway.com. 2. Peerless Grille, 15 W. 10th St., Anniston, 256-237-1899, www. peerlesssaloon.com. 3. Firehouse Subs, 151 Plaza Lane, Oxford, 256-835-4660, www. firehousesubs.com.

dinner 1. Classic on Noble, 1024 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-5388, www.classiconnoble.com. 2. Garfrerick’s, 655 Creekside Drive, Oxford, 256-831-0044. 3. Longhorn Steakhouse, 301 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-8320066, www.longhornsteakhouse.com.

catfish 1. Top o’ the River, 3330 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-238-0097, www. TopOtheRiver.com. 2. The Ark, 13030 U.S. 78, Riverside, 205-338-7420. 3. Betty’s BBQ, 401 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1411.

ribs 1. Cooter Brown’s Rib Shack, 8464 Alabama 204, Jacksonville, www. cootersribs.com. 2. Dad’s BBQ, 3105 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-238-4323; 710 S. Noble St., Anniston, 256-231-2459. 3. Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q, 219 Colonial Drive, Oxford, 256-831-7933, www.sonnysbbq.com.

milkshake 1. Cecil’s Place, 301 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-8909. 2. Sonic, www.sonicdrivein.com. 3. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com.

1. Popeye’s, 1925 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-4333, www.popeyes.com. 2. KFC, www.kfc.com. 3. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com.

chicken wings

steaks 1. Longhorn Steakhouse, 301 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-8320066, www.longhornsteakhouse.com. 2. Outback Steakhouse, 196 Spring Branch Road, Oxford, 256-835-4644, www. outback.com. 3. Lonestar Steakhouse, 171 Colonial Drive, Oxford, 256-831-7441, www.lonestarsteakhouse.com.

fried chicken

Buffet dishes are refilled at Golden Corral in Oxford. Trent Penny/ The Anniston Star

T he buffet of champions

have always had a fond relationship with food. Though I do keep in shape, my exceptional metabolism has done most of the work over the years, allowing me to eat whatever I want and not worry about the consequences. And with a high metabolism comes an appetite that is rarely sated for long. For a man like me, the Golden Corral buffet is a wonderful place — a Narnia-like realm where unicorns frolic on diets of lollipops and rainbows, Keebler elves make free cookies for you on demand and water tastes like Cherry Coca-Cola. The size of the buffet is not to be underestimated. Even with a parking lot full of customers, access to the buffet’s many offerings is

best buffet 1. Golden Corral, 201 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-241-9282, www.goldencorral.com. 2. Western Sizzlin’, 600 S Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-238-1448; 200 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-835-2500, www. western-sizzlin.com. 3. Porterhouse Cafeteria, 1409 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-831-7470. relatively quick and easy. There is a grill that at any one time is producing steak, chicken, ribs or hamburgers. There is a section for seafood, for Mexican food, for Asian food, for Italian food. There is a plentiful salad bar and a

section for various breads. The dessert bar rounds out this happiness factory with cakes, pies, ice cream and banana pudding, which will disappear within minutes and must be grabbed quickly. But it’s at breakfast on Saturday and Sunday that Golden Corral really steps it up a notch. To me, an endless supply of bacon, waffles and scrambled eggs just proves that the United States’ status as the world’s most powerful country is still secure. And to top it off, a cook will prepare a fresh omelet to order right in front of you. So try the buffet out if you get the chance. Or don’t. You will just be leaving more food for the rest of us. — Patrick McCreless

romantic dinner

overall restaurant

plate lunch

take out

1. Classic on Noble, 1024 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-5388, www.classiconnoble.com. 2. The Victoria Restaurant, 1604 Quintard Ave., Anniston, www.thevictoria.com. 3. Garfrerick’s, 655 Creekside Drive, Oxford, 256-831-0044.

1. Classic on Noble, 1024 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-5388, www.classiconnoble.com. 2. Garfrerick’s, 655 Creekside Dr., Oxford, 256-831-0044. 3. Damn Yankees, 919 Noble St., Anniston, 256-236-7000, www. damnyankeesoysterbar.com.

1. Betty’s BBQ, 401 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-1411. 2. Peerless GrillE, 15 W. 10th St., Anniston, 256-237-1899, www. peerlesssaloon.com. 3. Dad’s BBQ, 3105 McClellan Blvd., Anniston, 256-238-4323; 710 S. Noble St., Anniston, 256-231-2459.

1. New China, 1540 Greenbrier Dear Road, Anniston, 256-835-1153. 2. Cecil’s Place, 301 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-8909. 3. Mata’s Greek Pizza, 1708 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-2373100, www.matasgreekpizza.com.

1. Jefferson’s, 230 Spring Branch Road, Oxford, 256-835-5858; 407 Pelham Road N., Jacksonville, 256-435-3456, www. jeffersonsrestaurant.com. 2. Struts, 500 Forney Ave. N.W., Jacksonville, 256-782-0106; 88 Ali Way, Oxford, 256-835-8102. 3. Coop DeVille, 401 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-1818.

coffee shop 1. Starbucks, 1011 U.S. 21 S., Oxford, 256-832-3820; inside Target at Oxford Exchange, Oxford, 256-231-2900, www. starbucks.com. 2. Java Jolt, 5 Public Square E., Jacksonville, 256-782-3222, www.java-jolt.com. 3. Solid Rock Café, 105 N. Center Ave., Piedmont, 256-447-1960.

donuts 1. Lamar’s, 1781 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-832-4353, www.lamars.com. 2. OMG! Donuts, 1620 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-9187. 3. Donut Prince, 602 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-782-0707.

fast food 1. Chick-Fil-A, Quintard Mall, Oxford, 256-835-1887; 1205 U.S. 21 S., Oxford, 256835-6009; 700 Pelham Road N., Jacksonville, 256-782-8123, www.chick-fil-a.com. 2. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com 3. Burger King, www.bk.com.

fine dining 1. Classic on Noble, 1024 Noble St., Anniston, 256-237-5388, www.classiconnoble.com. 2. Garfrerick’s, 655 Creekside Drive, Oxford, 256-831-0044. 3. The Victoria Inn, 1604 Quintard Ave., Anniston, www.thevictoria.com.

hamburger 1. The Rocket, 1500 U.S. 21 N., Jacksonville, 256-435-6516. 2. Cecil’s Place, 301 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-8909. 3. Jefferson’s, 230 Spring Branch Road, Oxford, 256-835-5858; 407 Pelham Road N., Jacksonville, 256-435-3456, www. jeffersonsrestaurant.com.

hot dog 1. Sonic, www.sonicdrivein.com. 2. Sneaky Pete’s, 1521 Greenbrier Dear Road, Anniston, 256-835-2626; 8076 Alabama 202, Anniston, 256-835-4663. 3. Tweeners, 1725 Broadwell Mill Road, Jacksonville, 256-435-0030.

iced tea 1. McDonald’s, www.mcdonalds.com. 2. Sonic, www.sonicdrivein.com. 3. McAlister’s, 815 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-831-0079, www.mcalisterdeli.com.

italian restaurant 1. Olive Garden, 401 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-831-4911, www. olivegarden.com. 2. Effina’s Tuscan Grill, 501 Pelham Road N., Jacksonville, 256-782-0008. 3. Carpenetti’s Pizza, 1021 U.S. 431, Anniston, 256-231-0000.

mexican restaurant 1. Los Mexicanos, 500 Hamric Drive W., Oxford, 256-835-7795; 1936 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-835-8700. 2. Mexico Lindo Grill, 550 Oxford Exchange Blvd., Oxford, 256-831-9407, www.mexicolindorestaurant.com. 3. Baja California Grill, 1555 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-0075.

www.bamaescapes.com

July 1-July 7, 2011

b e s t o f | foo d & d r ink overall grocery store 1. Winn-Dixie, www.winndixie.com. 2. Walmart, www.walmart.com. 3. Dorsey’s Super Market, 601 Main St., Oxford, 256-831-5504.

grocery prices 1. Walmart, www.walmart.com. 2. Winn Dixie, www.winndixie.com. 3. Food Outlet, www.shopfoodoutlet.com.

produce 1. Winn-Dixie, www.winndixie.com. 2. B&B Produce, 1000 S. Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-237-3625. 3. Walmart, www.walmart.com.

breakfast 1. Cracker Barrel, 220 Leon Smith Parkway, Oxford, 256-835-6700, www. crackerbarrel.com. 2. IHOP, 1904 U.S. 78 E., Oxford, 256-8323116, www.ihop.com. 3. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com.

pizza

chicken fingers

french fries

1. McDonald’s, www.mcdonalds.com. 2. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com. 3. Wendy’s, www.wendys.com.

milkshake 1. Cecil’s Place, 301 Pelham Road S., Jacksonville, 256-435-8909. 2. Sonic, www.sonicdrivein.com. 3. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com.

1. Popeye’s, 1925 Quintard Ave., Anniston, 256-236-4333, www.popeyes.com. 2. KFC, www.kfc.com. 3. Jack’s, www.eatatjacks.com.

chicken wings

fried chicken

Buffet dishes are refilled at Golden Corral in Oxford. Trent Penny/ The Anniston Star

T he buffet of champions

romantic dinner

overall restaurant

plate lunch

take out

iced tea 1. McDonald’s, www.mcdonalds.com. 2. Sonic, www.sonicdrivein.com. 3. McAlister’s, 815 Hamric Drive E., Oxford, 256-831-0079, www.mcalisterdeli.com.

22 ◆

July 1-July 7, 2011

www.bamaescapes.com The Starlite Drive-In

playing this week in oxford bad teacher HH1/2, 1:32, R This bad teacher isn’t teaching at a Chicago middle school for the rewarding experience. She just needs enough money for a boob job. With Cameron Diaz, Jason Segel, Lucy Punch and Justin Timberlake.

LARRY CROWNEHH1/2, 1:35,

PG-13

Laid off from his retail job, an everyman heads to his local college to start over. With Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Cedric the Entertainer and Taraji P. Henson.

Mr. Popper’s Penguins

HH1/2, 1:35, PG

When Tom Popper’s father bequeaths him a penguin, and five more follow, the tuxedoed ones turn his life upside down. With Jim Carrey and Angela Lansbury.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides HH, 1:31, PG (2-D and 3-D)H1/2, 2:17, PG-13 The martial artist panda Po Captain Jack Sparrow and his friends must once again returns for another adventure, protect the Valley of Peace from this time searching for the a villain. With the voices of Jack Fountain of Youth and tangling Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin with the pirate Blackbeard. Hoffman and Jackie Chan. With Johnny Depp, Penelope Green Lantern (in 2d and Directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. Cruz, Ian McShane and Kevin 3d) H1/2, 1:54, PG-13 R. McNally. MONTE CARLO HH, 1:48, NR When a spaceship crashThree girls vacationing in lands, the alien inside bequeaths SUPER 8 HHH, 1:52, PG-13 Paris find themselves whisked his ring — and membership in A coming-of-age story about away to Monte Carlo after one of amateur filmmakers who film a an intergalactic peacekeeping the girls is mistaken for a Britforce — to the reluctant Hal Jorspidery space alien on the loose dan. With Ryan Reynolds, Blake ish heiress. With Selena Gomez, in Ohio 1979. With Joel CourtLeighton Meester, Katie Cassidy ney, Elle Fanning, Kyle Chandler Lively, Peter Sarsgaard and Tim Robbins. and Cory Monteith. and Noah Emmerich. Cars 2 (2d and 3d) H1/2, 1:46, G Lightening McQueen competes in an international grand prix while his buddy Tow Mater tags along. With Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Michael Caine and John Turturro.

Kung Fu Panda 2 (2-D and 3-D)

Drama, action, romance: This week’s DVD releases By Rick Bentley McClatchy Newspapers

This week’s new DVD releases are a mixed bag of drama, action, romance and some cool dance moves. Sucker Punch: A young girl must use her imagination to escape from a dark reality. Jena Malone and Vanessa Hudgens star. Director Zack Snyder’s a master when it comes to creating visually stunning films. Sucker Punch is an explosion of imagery and audio stimulation it’s almost too much for the normal senses to handle. The film’s best appreciated as a visual roller coaster. Don’t think. Just hold on and enjoy the wild ride. Barney’s Version: Paul Giamatti stars in this story of a man whose life is filled with love and loss. Giamatti enters that magical place where the actor disappears and he becomes the character, the kind of transformation usually reserved for the acting elite: Meryl Streep, Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks. So when it happens, the work should not be missed. This is a reminder that we are all a prod-

uct of the happiness and sadness that form the cobblestone paths we walk. It takes an actor of the caliber of Giamatti to pull off something as complicated as this simple story. There may be quiet moments, but they are never dull. Beastly: A witch makes a shallow teen as ugly on the outside as he is on the inside. Vanessa Hudgens stars. The film, a modern take on Beauty and the Beast, is a sweet story about falling in love. It’s really nice to see a movie about teens where the main emphasis isn’t sex. Michael Flatley: Lord of the Dance: Although the show is filled with talented performers, it’s Michael Flatley who commands the stage like few dancers before him. Whether he is driven by ego, talent or both, Flatley is a whirling dervish who uses the stage as a tool of seduction. He draws you in by mixing fanciful and military numbers that create an emotional and musical roller coaster. Director Marcus Viner makes sure to show Flatley hasn’t lost a step even presenting several of the dancer’s high kicks in slow motion.

DOUBLE FEATURE FRIDAY & SATURDAY ONLY

The hangover part II HHH,

1:41, R

On the heels of their wild Las Vegas bachelor party, four pals get into more trouble. With Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifanakis and Ed Helms. Written by Scot Armstrong, Craig Mazin and Todd Phillips. TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON (2-D AND 3-D) H1/2, 2:34,

PG-13

Humans and their shapeshifting mechanical allies, the Autobots, once again clash with the evil Decepticons and defend the world. With Shia LaBeouf, John Turturro, Josh Duhamel. X-men: first class HHH, 2:12,

PG-13

Discover the beginnings of the mutant heroes. With James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Rose Byrne and Kevin Bacon.

Cars 2 Green Lantern

**$5 Adult, $2 Children • Show Time Approximately 7:30**

741-1411

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700 Quintard Drive, Suite 300 Quintard Mall Exit 185 off of I-20 888-94-FILMS WWW.AMSTARCINEMAS.COM SUPER SAVER TUESDAYS: Tickets only $6.00 all day. $9.00 for 3D! SUMMER KIDS FLICKS - TUES. & WED. FOR $3.00! HARRY POTTER MEGA MARATHON- SEE ALL EIGHT MOVIES!

LARRY CROWNE (PG13) (12:00 2:20 4:40) 7:00 9:20 MONTE CARLO (PG) (11:25 2:00 4:30) 7:05 9:40 TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON (PG13) (11:45 12:30 3:00 3:45) 7:15 10:30 TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON 3D (PG13) (11:00 2:15 5:45) 6:30 9:00 9:45 BAD TEACHER (R) (12:35 2:50 5:00) 7:10 9:30 CARS 2 (G) (1:15 2:15 3:50 4:50) 6:45 7:45 9:25 CARS 2 IN DISNEY DIGITAL 3D (G) (11:00 1:45 4:20) 7:15 9:50 GREEN LANTERN (PG13) 10:20 PM GREEN LANTERN 3D (PG13) (11:55 2:25 4:55) 7:25 9:55 MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS (PG) (11:50 2:05 4:35) 6:55 SUPER 8 (PG13) (11:20 2:10 4:45) 7:20 X-MEN: FIRST CLASS (PG13) 9:10 PM THE HANGOVER PART II (R) 10:00 PM PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES (PG13) (11:10 AM) Times subject to change

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23 ◆

www.bamaescapes.com

July 1-July 7, 2011

New sequel to ‘Transformers’ is another loud bruiser Paramount Pictures/Associated Press

Optimus Prime is shown in a scene from ‘Transformers: Dark of the Moon.’

By David Germain

of computer-generated machine parts thrashing about. So Bay and his collaborators To his credit, Michael Bay does set out to show the flesh-andtry to put more human touch into blood consequences in the war Transformers: Dark of the Moon, between the benevolent Autobots aiming to make up for the clatand their evil counterparts, the tering mess of overgrown kitchen Decepticons. appliances that duked it out in the But human consequence in franchise’s last installment. a Bay flick means more shots of Bay went to the far side of the Shia LaBeouf bellowing while he moon and even to planet Vulcan, and his pals get battered around enlisting John F. Kennedy, Richamid the mayhem. The action ard Nixon, Neil Armstrong, Buzz sequences drag on and on, and Aldrin and Mr. Spock in search of while the stunts and digital the human face of the Transform- imagery are even more dazzling ers universe. than the visuals of Bay’s first two And he came back with anoth- Transformers tales, it all flies by er loud, long, bruising and weari- in such frenzy that it remains a some onslaught of giant, shapechallenge to figure out who’s who, shifting robots. The human elewhich robot is which, and what ment arises largely from archival machines you should be rooting footage involving the 1960s moon for. race, along with images that may It’s a thin line between the disturb younger kids as a succes- idiotically incomprehensible sion of screaming, scrambling Revenge of the Fallen and the humans are vaporized by the merely incomprehensible of Dark ‘bots like insects in a bug zapper. of the Moon. In 3-D, too, so you get to wear Unlike Revenge of the Fallen, those clunky glasses for the fran- part three actually has a plot, or chise’s longest movie yet. at least starts with one before It really felt like people didn’t the movie lapses into nonsense. matter in 2009’s Transformers: Returning screenwriter Ehren Revenge of the Fallen, a megaKruger weaves in a 1960s problockbuster despite being little logue as NASA tracks the crash more than a turgid assemblage of an alien ship on the moon, Associated Press

TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON H1/2 rating: PG-13 for intense prolonged sequences of scifi action violence, mayhem and destruction, and for language, some sexuality and innuendo Running time: 2:34. Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Josh Duhamel and Tyrese Gibson prompting Kennedy to order a salvage mission under cover of his call to beat the Russians to the lunar surface (along with Kennedy, the prologue features archival footage of Nixon and moon walkers Armstrong and Aldrin, the latter also turning up in a cameo as himself in present times). The crashed vessel carried technology that was the last hope of the Autobots in their losing battle against the Decepticons on their home world. It also carried the leader of the Autobots, Sentinel Prime (voiced by Leonard Nimoy, who also is seen briefly as Vulcan Spock from a Star Trek

episode as Paramount Pictures forges a strange marriage of its two big sci-fi franchises). Sentinel Prime is revived by his protÈgÈ and successor, Optimus Prime (again voiced by Peter Cullen), and the two lead their scant Autobot forces and human allies against Decepticon leader Megatron (Hugo Weaving) in the race to recover the lost technology. Earth’s fate is again in the balance, with LaBeouf’s Sam Witwicky naturally at the center of things. Bay cast out Megan Fox as Sam’s girlfriend, replacing her with new romantic interest Carly (Victoria’s Secret model Rosie Huntington-Whitely, who makes a laughably titillating, skin-bearing entry into the movie, reminiscent of Fox’s introduction in the last one). LaBeouf is reunited with Josh Duhamel and Tyrese Gibson as leaders of the human strike forces, along with John Turturro as a former government operative who jumps back into the battle. Some genuine humor arises early on, courtesy of John Malkovich as Sam’s quirkily autocratic new boss and Frances McDormand as a supremely capable but by-the-book intelligence

chief (hearing Academy Award winner McDormand state with conviction that “it’s some sort of prototype Autobot technology” is a natural giggle). The 3-D images, created through a combination of 3-D cameras, 2-D converted footage and digital effects, generally are crisp, avoiding the blurriness that has spoiled some 3-D tales. Fans of the format should be satisfied, but for the anti-3-D crowd, the movie probably will not win any converts; the 3-D images really don’t add anything. Dark of the Moon mostly is an expensive exercise in rubbernecking, the audience getting to watch colossal carnage and destruction from the safety of stadium seating. And human consequence? Well, the most human thing about Dark of the Moon is the age-old, gravelly voice of Sentinel Prime, even though Nimoy unfortunately is called on to parrot one of the most-cherished lines of the Star Trek canon in a bad context. It’s hard to care about what happens on screen when an extra-terrestrial robot, speaking with the same voice as a pointyeared Vulcan, provides the most human connection in a movie.

24 ◆

July 1-July 7, 2011

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Oxford Exchange, Exit 188 I-20

Thank you for Choosing Golden Corral #1 Buffet in our area! Come See Why! “Thank you for voting us # 1!”

Midtown Outlet

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25 ◆

www.bamaescapes.com FRIDAY EVENING 7/1/11