December 2015 - Volume 2, Issue 12
Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper
Holiday Help for Mining Families
“Toys for Miners” Donations in Full Swing By Tori Linville
Walter Energy, also known as Jim Walter Resources, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July. With it came the possibility of more than 500 position layoffs. The latest bout of layoffs saw 265 positions eliminated from the company’s No. 7 mine in Brookwood in early November. This isn’t the first time the No. 7 mine has suffered. In the same month the company declared bankruptcy, 180 positions were cut in the Brookwood mine. Heather Bosch, a 27-year-old mother of two, said she decided to help because she knew what the miners and families were about to face. “I’ve been in their shoes,” she said. “I’ve had no job with two kids, and one of the hardest questions to have a Everyone in the Brookwood community is rallying to help miners’ families, even the youngest residents. Photo: Heather Bosch child ask is ‘Mommy, why can’t we have this?’ and it’s so hard to have to say ‘We don’t have the money.’” people together and said ‘Hey, let’s do a benefit.’” Bosch, a nursing student at Shelton State Community With that, Toys for Miners was born. Bosch and College, has family ties to the mine as well. Her fathera number of other individuals interested in helping in-law has worked for the mine for 38 years. began their efforts immediately by attending council “I just kept getting on Facebook and seeing my news feed full of people talking about helping, but didn’t know meetings. They also got in touch with Larry Spencer, a Continued on Page 11 what to do,” she said. “So I started compiling those
Tuscaloosa’s Annual Holiday Tradition Continues Delicious Recipes for the Holidays Complete Recipes on Page 22
Inside This Issue About Us City News Opinion Community Gift Guide Business Schools Sports Calendar Food
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Holidays on the River kicks off in new location By Candice Morris It’s a Tuscaloosa tradition: The city’s annual Holidays on the River kicked off on Dec. 2 and the community has turned out in droves. Holidays on the River is jam-packed with entertainment for the entire family. This year brings some exciting changes, according to organizers. The Holidays on the River ice rink and activities have moved to the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Entrance to the “Amp” during Holidays on the River’s operational hours is free of charge. Tickets for skaters (including skate rental) are $10 and include skates and an hour and a half on the ice. Christy Bobo, Manager of Arts & Entertainment with the City of Tuscaloosa, says it’s a great change.
Artwork: Caleb Walters
Story Continued on Page 11
2 ABOUT
December 2015
Photo of the Month
CEO/Publisher Josh Watkins (205) 529-5723
Josh@druidcitymedia.com
Editor Laurie Mundy Perrigin (205) 246-2977 Laurie@druidcitymedia.com Visuals Editor Christopher Edmunds (205) 541-7092
Christopher@druidcitymedia.com
Staff Writers Tori Linville Courtney Corbridge Stan J. Griffin Marketing Consultants Tom Sommerville (205) 393-6396 Tom@druidcitymedia.com
Britney McComb (256) 476-6888
Britney@druidcitymedia.com
Allison Adams (205) 914-2400
allisonpadams@gmail.com
Published by Druid City Media, LLC Legal: Druid City Living (DCL) is published monthly. Reproduction or use of graphical content without prior permission is prohibited. DCL is designed to inform the readers regarding community news and events. Information is gathered from sources that are considered reliable, however the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles, photos etc. submitted become the property of DCL. We reserve the right to edit as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish any material. Any inaccuracies should be brough to the attention of the editor.
Carol DeVelice, “Sister Mary Annette,” and Beth Stomps Feller star in Theatre Tuscaloosa’s upcoming production of “Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical,” running Dec. 11-20 in the Bean-Brown Theatre on the Shelton State Martin Campus in Tuscaloosa. To read more about “Nuncrackers,” see page 14. Photo: Porfirio Solorzano
DINE
PLAY
STAY
PLAY
PLAY
DINE
You can travel all over, and you won’t find Another town with our name or our frame of mind visittuscaloosa.com
Music plays under Southern Skies And all that you see is a feast for the eyes Tuscaloosa – The One and Only
4 CITY NEWS
December 2015
Mayor’s Minute – December 2015 In the past 10 years, as part of our strategic focus to improve Tuscaloosa’s quality of life, we have been dedicated to hosting events that are fun and family-friendly and provide a unique experience. Holidays on the River, whose main feature is ice skating, would certainly be one such endeavor that has created an exciting experience for thousands of people since 2012. This year, we will be hosting HOTR at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. The Amp provides space for a larger ice rink, improves concessions and restrooms and creates better seating for viewing. On so many levels, the Amphitheater allows more operational freedom that will greatly enhance the entire experience. Holidays on the River will be packed with events and activities such as: showings of favorite holiday movies; the return of the Christmas Afloat; music and dance performances; and the Tuscaloosa’s One Place Tinsel Trail. In the spirit of the season, HOTR even offers a chance to give back – thanks to UA Dance Marathon volunteers, your family can make Christmas cards for children at Children’s Hospital. The rink opened on Tuesday, December 1, and you can enjoy the winter wonderland until its conclusion on Monday, January 18. With the exception of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, there are several skate sessions to choose from each day the rink is open. For more information, please contact Tuscaloosa 311 at 248-5311 or go to holidaysontheriver.com. Sincerely, Walter Maddox
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6 OPINION
December 2015
The Mommy Chronicles: A Country Kid’s Christmas by Marlena Rice
What country kid hasn’t spent time helping daddy fix the riding mower? Photo: Marlena Rice
Marlena Rice is a local mom and author. Her new book, “Pacifiers, Flatbeds and Barn Wood Thingamajigs, a ‘Come to Jesus Guide’ for the New, Southern Mom,” will be available on Amazon.com in early 2016. Follow Marlena on Instagram at marlena_rice.
Growing up in a military family, I always had visions of what Alabama people were like. And, with a keen interest in journalism from an early age, I always found it amazing how just about every reporter on the news found the stereotypical southerner during times of chaos to report the “happening” in such a vibrantly colorful way, that even someone with such a diverse background as myself assumed southern life had certain particulars. Then I moved to Tuscaloosa, fell in love with a man who believes that all “real men” own a pair of steel-toed boots, and became a football fan who understands the game. Now, I regularly Instagram photos of my child learning the parts of his Daddy’s riding lawnmower equipment as I sit in a comfy lounge chair in the garage, watching as they take the mower apart, build it back, and ride the finished product in the cool fall weather on our property. Southern stereotype? Nope. Just Alabama Normal. Christmas is coming soon, and I feel it’s important for us to teach our “country kids” about the true meaning of the season as they take part in holiday festivities. Nothing compares to family and the simple things we can do to spend time with one another, and these are some suggestions for a true country kids’ Christmas. Get Crafty: Make burlap Christmas stockings. Burlap has a very natural,
down-home appearance, and it’s fun to decorate. Let the kids color or paint their own stockings, and hang them around your home as additional holiday décor. Take it Outside: One thing Alabamians can count on is having sporadic warm days during the holiday season. Most of us have tents, too, so why not have a pre-Santa camping trip? Find a great spot on your property, grab the sleeping bags and snacks, and, as you watch the beauty outside, “spot” Santa during a pre-Christmas run. Have your kids make two lists: One for the things they plan to do to help others during the holiday season, and the second a wish list for themselves. Be Creative: Turn cooking into craft time for the kids. Make brownies and ice them with Santa hats, or grab a few of those mason jars many of us have around the house and make brownies or cookies in a jar. Throw Some Ball: As Alabama fans, we all always assume we’re going to win and make it to the Championship game (It’s in our nature), so get your kiddos involved. On the night you string up your outdoor Christmas lights, play a holiday football game of your own once the sun sets. What can compare to the kids in pompom winter caps, football, and Christmas lights? Not too much. Until we win the Championship game. Roll Tide.
OPINION 7
December 2015
The Land of Oz: Socks and Underwear
by Derek Osborn
A monthly editorial piece of masterful opinionated writing (insert joke here) regarding life and times in the big town of Tuscaloosa coupled with the musings of a guy nicknamed “Oz.” Here is the column you wait for the entire year. You know, the one where contributors like me tell you all about fond memories of Christmas past? The one about traditions passed down from generation to generation. The one where a certain holiday music classic spawns a gamut of emotion linked to a special occasion in a simpler time. This is the quintessential “days gone by” composition. There is a reason that Christmas tunes from 40-50 years ago are still popular. It’s the same reason that certain radio stations change their programming entirely to holiday classics for the duration of December (edit: and now November. edit part two: and half of October). A few select stations have actually started playing Christmas music year round (which might be overdoing it just a hair). For many of us, the music is simply nostalgic. And while it’s not for everyone, a lot of listeners hold those memories so dear that, for at least a month, they never change the station. It’s the gatherings that you can’t replicate - the events that you can’t duplicate. It’s those perfect times that were, by and large, undeniably imperfect. Just like Christmas at Irene’s. The only affair that even came close to trumping (not an endorsement) the jolly fat man coming down the chimney itself were the respective visits to the grandparents’ houses. Jean crafted and cooked world champion quality chicken and dumplings. Irene’s dressing was never dry. Both of the events had enough crazyLipstick unclesHalf to fill a charter bus. 2:43 PM Page 1 Bradford Pg up Ad_Layout 1 12/4/14 Obviously, when we were kids, the main course of both affairs was the distribution and subsequent
destruction of the boxes and bows that lay innocently beneath the tree. Jean’s floor would be littered with the latest gadgets or Transformers or Star Wars action figures (some things never change) while “Joy to the World” blasted on repeat and bliss filled the air. Irene’s floor was different. One year, the much-anticipated gift opening celebration featured the biggest letdown/buzzkill ever recorded in the history of Christmas gift fails… All of the grandkids got socks and underwear. The overall sentiment shared by the cousins was that the world was most certainly ending. The collective ran to the windows to see if the sky was indeed in the process of falling. From that point forward, the running joke among the cousins was asking, “Ready to get socks and underwear from Irene?” And from that point on, Irene never disappointed. Here is the all-important point of the story: Many toys will break and will likely be forgotten or become obsolete. But socks and underwear will persevere. And sometimes, it is more important to receive things that you need instead of things that you want. So if grandma surprises you with a buffet of Fruitof-the-Loom’s, make sure to hug her neck. Socks and underwear never go out of style, and trust me…you’ll never forget it. Merry Christmas. I tweet insignificant things @ozborn34. Derek Osborn is the Executive Director of PRIDE of Tuscaloosa by trade and writer by hobby. He lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Lynn, and daughters Savannah and Anica.
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8 OPINION Lake Living: Wishing The holidays bring out the list-maker in everyone: What to buy, where to go, things to do, cards to send. So, this December, I have compiled a list of wishes for Lake Tuscaloosa. I recently joined a real estate company that specializes in lakes with 10 agents across Alabama. Each lake has a representative. I am Lake Tuscaloosa’s “neighborhood” Realtor with Lake Homes Realty. This past month, we gathered in Birmingham to share tidbits on the great things about the bodies of water on which we live and work. I was not surprised in our meeting when a voice from South Carolina asked, “Wait, Tuscaloosa has a lake?” Being a positive person (most of the time), I begin with some “blessing counting” that we have such a great resource so close to the University and close to my hometown of Livingston. I don’t have to preach to the choir, but… • Consistent water levels are huge. I say that as a speedboat boat heads across the horizon as I write, headed out for some fishing on a warm fall afternoon. • We have some of the cleanest water around, in that we drink it, and that’s encouraging on all fronts. No mucky silt or river washing mud and trees into the channels like some of our other Alabama lakes. • It is still yet undiscovered (although
December 2015 by Allison Adams
we have owners here from as far as New York, several from Mississippi, Indiana, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee) and hundreds searching each day for lakes in Alabama. • The lake is serene, perfect for a peaceful pontoon ride, paddling a canoe or a kayak without fear of being spliced by a cigar boat. Boaters here are careful, as we have a pretty dominant police presence here on the lake as well. • Deep water with tapering shores make sailing ideal. Taking in a lesson is on my bucket list. • Locals love the lake and participate in the Lake Cleanup each year. • Church on the water is offered in a couple of places for those waking up to take in God’s beauty on a Sunday morning. Being a planner and a habitual list-maker, I also decided to make a list of all of the things I wish for on Lake Tuscaloosa. • Every lake needs a restaurant where you can pull up, grab a pizza, and visit with friends. Our friends at Smith’s Marina have been working on that. • Where is our Lake Tuscaloosa Tacky Christmas Boat Parade? The river seems to get all of the fun. This year the Christmas Afloat River Parade is back, so that’s great! • Which brings me to other festivities
and fireworks. Some of the locals shoot them each year, but how fun would organized fireworks on the bluff be among the statuary with boats out in front of the cliffs? Something mild, like the Lake Tuscaloosa Opry used to do, maybe the symphony and a picnic on the Lake on July 3 so we can enjoy the Amphitheater on the Fourth! • My husband has one request: A boat towing service. We have been lucky so far, but hey, everyone needs to be prepared, just in case. Anchor Bay sent a friend out when our battery didn’t crank on the Sea-Do. It helps to have a plan. • We need just one rock to jump off of and mark as our own. Lake Martin takes pride in Chimney Rock, despite all the fools who have not done it so successfully. It’s part of lake fun. And we have careened the shores for a rope swing to no avail. I give the “Lake’s Most Fun” award to the owners who have their own slide (straight down I might add) on the South end of the lake. Maybe by spring, Santa can work to arrange some of this for our lake-loving friends. For now, I am off to take in the twinkling sunlight as it dips closer to the water to the purr of the soft engine
on an aged sailboat as it meanders past on its way to the open water. Ah…even without the list fulfilled, never a dull moment. Merry Christmas from Lake Tuscaloosa, Allison Allison Adams is the Realtor/Assoc. Broker for Lake Homes Realty and author of “The Twelve Days of Christmas Giving” (Coloring Edition). Copies are available at The Anchor 4.
OPINION 9
December 2015
Give Life to Your Story: Living with a Purpose I was recently challenged by my Sunday school teacher to think more deeply about my true purpose in life. You might think that such a search would typically be done by a teenager or young adult - not a 50- year-old grandfather who spends his working days helping teenagers find their purpose. But something my Sunday school teacher said struck a nerve and I came to a realization: What I had been telling others and myself, and how I have lived, have been in contradiction. As I wrestled with this conflict, I could see clear evidence in my life that what I said and what I did didn’t coincide. Although I had always believed that my life had some higher purpose, I lived my life for something else. Something more basic. As I walked through my personal history, both distant and recent, I could now see clearly why I had made many of the decisions I had made in life. I am not complex. And my discovery left me feeling shallow and ordinary. Let me tell you what I had come to believe about myself: I thought I was a person whose ultimate purpose was to please God. To live my life for Him. To make His will for my life my ultimate purpose. But what I discovered, after some self-analysis, is I have most often lived my life just to be happy. That even as a Christian, my own happiness was my ultimate goal. Now
you might respond with the notion that everyone is exactly the same. Everyone ultimately lives to be happy. I have heard, “We may all find happiness in different places but all of us want this one ultimate prize in life.” But here is my question for you: What if it’s not? What if our life was meant for so much more? What if our pursuit of this elusive happiness leads to all types of selfish decisions? And what if we raise kids who think that life is ultimately about their own happiness? I once heard an illustration that life is a lot like climbing a ladder: Some of us climb faster and succeed better than others around us. But what if you were the very best climber around and got to the top quicker than anyone else, only to discover your ladder was leaning against the wrong wall? Is it possible that happiness is the wrong wall? Is it possible we were made for something more? I have found that happiness comes and goes in this life. When we choose to pursue the right things, happiness has a way of finding us. But it is a horrible goal. It leads to all sorts of warped views on life. This is a huge topic with
far-reaching implications. So I leave you with this: What is your true purpose? What is it you strive towards and are willing to lose everything else in order to obtain? Maybe what you have been saying and living are at odds. Maybe it’s time to check your ladder and make sure it’s leaning against the right wall. Mike Green and his wife, Laura, have two grown children and one grandchild.
by Mike Green
10 COMMUNITY
Tales of
December 2015
Local author and historian Jim Ezell is busily writing a collection of historical stories about the Druid City and surrounding areas, in hopes of publishing a book ahead of Tuscaloosa’s bicentennial celebration in 2019. What began as genealogy search in 1992 quickly turned into a much larger project. As Ezell searched through over a century of newspapers at the University of Alabama’s Hoole Special Collections Library, he became fascinated by other articles from the Druid City.
Tuscaloosa
By Jim Ezell
“Two Bits, Four Bits, Six Bits, a Dollar!” December 19, 1878
The cheerleaders shouted, “Two bits, four bits, six bits a dollar, all for Bama stand up and holler!” Thousands leapt to their feet and cheered. At football games across the U.S. these words are repeated countless times each season. But few will understand or even wonder about the origin of the cheer. The phrase is based on the “twobit” nickname for a quarter dollar. In other words, two bits equal 25-cents. Therefore, a single bit would be 12½-cents and a dollar would contain eight bits. This doesn’t seem logical, since there are no U. S. coins of such seemingly odd denominations. In the first decades of American independence, there was a shortage of domestically produced precious metals for minting coins. However, there was one source of precious metals that seemed inexhaustible—the mines of Mexico and South America, controlled by the Spanish Empire and the nations that arose from its collapse. The coin of that realm was the Spanish Pillar Dollar or “piece-ofeight,” and its fractional denominations of a half and one-real (rey-ahl) and two and four-reales (rey-ahl-les). Hundreds of millions of these coins were minted at Mexico City, Lima, Bogota and Potosi. These coins circulated worldwide and became the standard for international trade. Thus, the value of the U. S. dollar was set to equal the piece-of-eight. The two-real coin equaled a quarter and became known in American vernacular as “two bits.”
The real became legal tender in the United States and freely circulated. The Bank of the State of Alabama when Tuscaloosa was the capital issued fractional banknotes denominated in cents but which bore an image of the equivalent Spanish coin. For example, a 12½-cent note carried the image of a one-real coin; a 25-cent note displayed a two-real coin; while the 75-cent note showed two and four-real coins. Since there was a half-real coin (known as a “picayune”), one note was denominated for an astonishing 6¼-cents. In 1840, Peter Donaldson, proprietor of the Bell Tavern, listed his prices in the Flag of the Union, a Tuscaloosa newspaper—one bit for wine or spirits, two bits for lodging, three bits for breakfast or supper, and four bits for dinner. Gold used in early 19th Century American coinage came Above: Both sides of a one-real coin minted at Lima, Peru in 1793. It was from the collection of primarily from North Carolina, Tuscaloosan James P. Tillery (1860-1932). The Latin legend translates as “Charles the Fourth, Georgia, and, to some extent, by God’s Grace, King of Spain and the Indies.” The scroll wrapped pillars may be the source of Alabama. However, after the 1849 the dollar sign. Below: A 25-cent or “two-bit” banknote issued at Tuscaloosa in 1838. The image California gold rush and later of a two-real coin is on the right. Photos: Jim Ezell silver strikes U. S. coins began to In 1987, archaeologists excavated collections or awaiting discovery by be minted in sufficient quantities the site of the Bank of the State of treasure hunters. However, a small to meet the demands of a growing Alabama. Under the foundations they part of their legacy lives on every economy. The real was officially discovered two 18th Century Spanish football season. demonetized in 1857, however, these coins—symbolic reminders of the coins continued to circulate until after If you have a comment or questhe Civil War. On December 19, 1878, area’s monetary history. The Spanish Pillar Dollar and its tion for local historian and author the Tuskaloosa Gazette noted that fractions are long gone from circuJim Ezell, you can email him at readers could settle their delinquent lation, but they can be found in coin Ezell0071@comcast.net. subscription debts with them.
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COMMUNITY 11
December 2015
MINERS
continued from page 1
district representative for United Mine Workers of America District 20, which includes mines in Alabama and several surrounding states. “Eight to nine hundred people were laid off in the district or put on idle,” she said. “They can’t receive employment benefits, food stamps, any help really. There were so many people willing to help that I was kind of discouraged because the people who actually needed help weren’t coming forward.” Bosch and her team then started contacting local news stations, radio stations and employed a web designer to set up a webpage dedicated to the cause. A board of volunteers was even designed in order to delegate the various Toys for Miners events. Hundreds of families in need registered as candidates to receive gifts that Toys for Miners collected via donations at Union Hall in Brookwood. More events are planned. A motorcycle run and coed slow pitch tournament will be held by Toys for Miners on Dec. 12 starting at 10 a.m. at Brookwood Park. “The bike run is being handled by Julie Kizziah and we met with the Brookwood Police Department and laid out the route with the chief,” Bosch said. “There’s no preregistration, but there will be a raffle. Union workers are possibly going to ride, and there’s a biker after-party at The Green Lantern in McCalla.” The after-party starts at 2 p.m. following the motorcycle run. The route begins at Dewey’s, travels down County Road 59, across Groundhog Road and finishes at Johns Road. Toys for Miners also has a sign-up available to adopt a miner’s child for the holiday season. Those who wish to donate can go online and pick the number of children they want to adopt. “This is more for toys for the kids because the toys are always so expensive. No child should have to worry about their parent’s bills because it takes the innocence out of them,” Bosch said. “So those babies are going to have that Christmas and innocence for another year and that’s what it’s all about.” Walter Energy also laid off 129 positions in its No. 4 mine. A spokesperson told al.com the latest layoffs are temporary and purely “market driven” as the price of coal sinks. Bosch just wants to help, no matter the situation. “I’d rather be sitting at home with my kids and know I helped 200 kids, than to be sitting at home looking at my children knowing I didn’t help those 200 kids,” she said.
HOLIDAYS
continued from page 1
“You’ll be able to make the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater your holiday hub for fun and entertainment,” Bobo said. Putting on an annual event of this magnitude is a big task, and fortunately, according to Bobo, a lot of people have come together helped to make Holidays on the River possible. “The support that has come from each city department has been such that this event will enhance the holidays for the citizens of our community in a way that is sure to brighten the holidays like never before,” Bobo said. ”We couldn’t do it without the help of the many sponsors who have jumped on board to pull this event together.” Tuscaloosa’s One Place is adding to the festive Holidays on the River atmosphere, hosting its annual Tinsel Trail along the Tuscaloosa River Walk. This year’s trail will be highlighted at both the Tuscaloosa River Market and the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. And if you’re looking for holiday film fun, each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater will host movie nights, starting at 6 p.m. and running through the evening. Check Holidays on the River’s website for listings, including other fun activities and dates.
Tuscaloosa’s One Place’s Tinsel Trail is back again this year as part of the city’s annual holiday celebrations. Photo: Tuscaloosa’s One Place
12 GIFT GUIDE
November 2015
November 2015
GIFT GUIDE 13
14 COMMUNITY The Dance Initiative to Present ‘Frozen’ By Brandie Rickett Bowden The Dance Initiative has assembled a cast of approximately 75 dancers of all ages to present its own interpretation of the modern holiday classic Frozen this month. This dance rendition features original choreography, and everyone is busy preparing. “It’s so exciting to see the children in the show coming into rehearsals,” said Debbi West, Dance Initiative Board president. “I love their enthusiasm when they see new costumes or get new choreography. These children are loving the show and cannot wait to share it with the public.” The beloved tale of Frozen is loosely based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Snow Queen. Rebecca Tingle and Melissa Verzino have taken inspiration from the popular movie as well as the original fairy tale for the choreography that translates the story into dance. Sisters Anna and Elsa are played by Jayci Kalb and Madelyn Link, and Olaf will be danced by Sarah Moore. Frozen will be held at the Central High School Theater Dec. 11-13, with four public shows and four school performances for local students - an exciting addition for the organization. “We have been overwhelmed with the response, and our cast and crew cannot wait to share this amazing show with all the students,” said Suzie Link, school show liaison. As a way of “paying it forward,” The Dance Initiative has developed an outreach program called Chance to Dance, a scholarship program
for young dancers. They also select a local charity to be “sponsored” by the show, collecting and giving donations to the charity at the show’s conclusion. This year, The Dance Initiative will donate to Read Bama Read. For ticket and show information, including show times, visit The Dance Initiative’s website, thedanceinitiative.com.
Starring in The Dance Initiative’s production of “Frozen” are Jaci Kalb (Anna), Madelyn Link (Elsa) and Sarah Moore (Olaf). Photo: Michael J Moore Photography
December 2015
Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents “Nuncrackers” Musical By Brandie Rickett Bowden While planning your holiday activities with friends and family, add Theatre Tuscaloosa’s Nuncrackers: the Nunsense Christmas Musical to your list. This family-friendly comedy stars your favorite characters from Nunsense, which Theatre Tuscaloosa presented back in 1998. If you didn’t see Nunsense, don’t worry: Nuncrackers will fill you in on all you need to know. “Patrons just need to know that these are the little sisters of Hoboken and they teach at Mt. Saint Helen’s school,” said Tina Turley, Executive Producer of Theatre Tuscaloosa and Director of Nuncrackers. “Sister Amnesia won the Publisher’s Clearinghouse Sweepstakes in Nunsense. They’ve taken the money and built a TV studio in their basement.” Nuncrackers picks up with the Sisters taping their first TV special in the basement studio: their annual Christmas program. As often happens, things don’t go according to plan and the Sisters, along with Father Virgil and a few Mt. Saint Helen students have to improvise along the way, including an amended version of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet. “The humor is multi-leveled,” said Turley. “Kids will have fun but adults will appreciate the cleverness.” And it’s precisely the humor that Turley says will help anyone stressed about the holidays relax and laugh. “The holidays are a time of reflection and celebration,” Turley said, “but sometimes, it gets stressful. This show will make you laugh and get you in the joyful holiday spirit.” Nuncrackers runs Dec. 11-20, with a Pay What You Can Dress Rehearsal on Thursday, Dec. 10. Performances take place in the Bean Brown Theatre on the Shelton State Martin Campus. Purchase tickets by calling the ticket office at (205) 391-2277 or visit theatretusc.com.
COMMUNITY 15
December 2015
Christmas Afloat: A Holiday Tradition Returns to Black Warrior By Laurie Mundy Perrigin Christmas Afloat, the lighted holiday boat parade along the Black Warrior River, is returning to Tuscaloosa and Northport on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 5 p.m. The event, put on by the “Pirates of the Warrior” boat club, had been held annually since 1990, but the April 2011 tornado destroyed so many boats, a three-year hiatus was taken. “We are proud as a Boat Club to bring Christmas Afloat back to Tuscaloosa,” said Ken DeWitt, chairman of the event. “This has long been a local holiday tradition, but our club was battered hard by the storm in 2011, and we are slowly but surely returning to our former numbers.” The parade route Northern Bank View will start at the Riverview Boat Landing just upriver from the Woolsey Finnell Bridge, proceeding downriver along the northern bank past the Cypress Inn, the Northshore/Rice Mine Road businesses, the Rivermont subdivision area, along the Northport Levee between Parker Towing Co., past The Levee Restaurant, and the downtown Northport levee. The turnaround point will be near the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, which is hosting the Holidays on the River festivities. Once downriver, the flotilla will return upriver over the same route but closer to the South Shore, allowing spectators a second viewing. On the South Bank, the best viewing areas will be the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, areas under the Hugh Thomas Bridge, along the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk near the end of Greensboro Avenue, going upriver to the Tuscaloosa River Market, the Riverwalk Place condos, and up along the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk to The Park at Manderson Landing at the University of Alabama.
Organizers say boats from all over the area are expected to join the parade from the Holt Lake on the Black Warrior River, Hide-a-Way Harbor Marina on the Holt Lake, from the Bankhead Lake near Birmingham where the “Boat Alabama” recreational boat club is located, as well as from Demopolis and other areas on the Tenn-Tom/Black Warrior River Waterways. The Pirates of the Warrior is a not-for-profit recreational boat club based in Cottondale on the Holt Lake of the Black Warrior River. The club
participates in many community events, including an annual “River Cleanup” of litter each summer. DeWitt added that donations to help with costs for Christmas Afloat are greatly appreciated, and sponsors for the event are needed. People wishing to donate as sponsors may make checks payable to: Tuscaloosa Christmas Afloat c/o Ed Cook 11770 Recreation Area Road Cottondale, AL 35453
Photo: Pirates of the Warrior Boat Club
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16 BUSINESS
December 2015
Tuscaloosa Business Happenings 1
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BUSINESS 17
December 2015
Now Open CL Salon is now open on Main Avenue in downtown Northport. Owner Crystal Layne Inglis’ full-service salon offers hair styling, facials and spa 1 services and more, all in a historic Main Street home that is available for events. Call for an appointment. 903 Main Avenue, (205) 792-0795 Entourage Clothing & Gifts is open in The Shoppes at Legacy Park. The store offers elegant fashions, accessories like handbags, jewelry and scarves, and gifts for the home. (205) 3422 2999, shopentourageclothing.com First US Bank has opened its second location in the Tuscaloosa market. The branch office at 2619 University Boulevard in downtown Tuscaloosa 3 is full-service, with an ATM, two drive-thru lanes and biometric safe deposit boxes. (205) 632-0630, firstusbank.com Lily Pads Boutique has opened a second location at The Shoppes at Legacy Park (near Fresh Market). The store, which offers many unique 4 lines of children’s clothing and shoes, is also located on Main Avenue in Northport. (205) 752-2229, lilypadsboutique.com Two Maids & A Mop recently opened a franchise location at 3076 Palisades Court, Suite E in Tuscaloosa. The Birmingham-based residential housekeeping company’s local franchise began 5 operation in September. (205) 562-3196, twomaidstuscaloosa.com
UGO, LLC, a convenience delivery service, is now open for business. Customers can log in via a mobile app and order a wide range of products, 6 including snacks and drinks, office supplies and electronics. Delivery cost is $2, and the service is available throughout central Tuscaloosa from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. on weekdays. ugollc.com WEDS! Anew, 429 Skyland Blvd. Suite B-4, opened its doors this month. Event designer Cheryl Hamner offers luxury bridal showcases and special 7 services for any events, from weddings to reunions to corporate events. A special New Year’s Eve event is planned for Dec. 31 to celebrate the new office opening. Call for details. (205) 4545515, wedsanew.com
News and Accomplishments Taco Casa Founder and CEO Rod Wilkin was the 2015 winner of the H. Pettus Randall Entrepreneur of the Year award, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. The “Rising Star” award was presented to the founders of Black Warrior Brewing Company (Joe Fuller, Jason Spikes and Eric Hull), Druid City Brewing Company (Bo Hicks and Elliott Roberts) and Band of Brothers Brewing Company (Quintin Brown, Jeremy Donald and Jeremiah Donald).
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Keller Williams Realty recently opened an office in Tuscaloosa located at 1788 N. McFarland Blvd, Suite A. The Austin, Texas-based company is the largest real estate franchise by agent count in the world, with 700 offices and 129,000 associates. (205) 759-3400. The owners of Keller Williams Realty in Tuscaloosa are Jason and Tricia Gray, Alice Maxwell, Carol Smith, Kim Bohannon, Nathan Dendy, Kathy Wheeler, Joe Duckworth Sr., Joe Duckworth Jr. and Warner Johnson. Chuy’s, the Austin-based Tex-Mex restaurant that opened in Tuscaloosa in October, presented a check for over $6200 to Tuscaloosa’s One Place in a ceremony held in November. The Tuscaloosa Association of REALTORS and Shelton State Community College partnered together in a joint can food drive and collected over 2,000 cans of food for the Salvation Army. The Realtors and engineering students worked together to build a 6-foot-tall replica of the Shelton State main building.
Hirings and Promotions Lake Homes Realty welcomed Allison Adams as a new agent in November. Adams is a Realtor and Associate Broker in Tuscaloosa, Northport and surrounding areas for lake and offlake property. (205) 914-2400, aadams@lakehomes. com, Lakehomes.com
18 COMMUNITY
December 2015
Local Fan Uses the Force to Create Epic ‘Star Wars’ Costume Think you’re a fan? Stacy Bishop is in another Galaxy entirely By Tori Linville Star Wars: The Force Awakens is set to release Dec. 18 and information about the epic franchise’s latest addition is anything but hard to come by. New and old characters are back in action under J.J. Abrams’ direction, including Han Solo and Leia (played by Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher) as well. Some new characters include Rey (Daisy Ridley), a self-sufficient scavenger from Jakku, Finn (John Boyega) who starts the movie as a Stormtrooper and Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), an X-wing pilot. Theories run rampant as to the relationships between the characters of the new installation, but Abrams is tight-lipped about most aspects of the film. Stacy Bishop, a professor at the University of Montevallo and Alabama alumnus, has been a Star Wars fan since he was a child. He said he’s excited about the film’s new and original story that continues something he’s loved for most of his life. “I was probably first introduced to Star Wars in 1983. I was 6 years old and went to see Return of The Jedi with my parents, and I was so scared by the Rancor that we actually had to leave early,” Bishop said. “But I collected the figures and over time it was Christmas tradition to watch the movies. Then the books and video games started to come out and I just wanted to get as much of the story as possible.” Bishop’s interest in Star Wars led him to discover the 501st Legion, an organization named after Darth Vader’s soldiers, also known as Vader’s Fist. The organization “seeks to promote interest in Star Wars through the building and wearing of quality costumes, and to facilitate the use of these costumes for
Star Wars-related events as well as contributions to the local community through costumed charity and volunteer work,” according to the group’s website. “It’s a philanthropy organization and you do volunteer work. You’re supposed to create your own costume and it’s supposed to be movie quality of any character within the Star Wars universe,” he said. “I thought highly of what they do at children’s hospitals. They’re the bad guys of the universe, so it’s described as bad guys doing good things.” Bishop and his girlfriend, Holland Payne, spent two years perfecting his costume. Bishop chose to create his costume of Jaster Mereel, leader of the Mandalorians. Mereel trained Jango Fett and was the inspiration for the clones, Bishop said. “It normally doesn’t take two years, but we weren’t able to work on it consistently, and I chose a harder costume. There weren’t a lot of parts out there for it, so we had the vest commissioned, cut metal and did our own sewing,” he said. “It was definitely a labor of love and received lots of compliments from adults. Holland’s very artistic and without her, I probably wouldn’t have finished it.” Bishop said he’s excited to see Falcon and Han Solo again, though he’s concerned about Ford’s presence in the movie. “It’s a nitpicky thing, but I’m skeptical of Harrison Ford more than anything else. He’s such a serious old man and Indiana Jones is the only role he enjoys playing (just from everything I’ve read),” he said. “He [Ford] doesn’t want the credit for anything and he’s very Han Solo in real life, and I would hate for him to come in and play a character
Photo: Britney McComb
he didn’t want to play.” Return of the Jedi was directed by Richard Marquand in 1983, with the story rights to George Lucas. The story rights stay with Lucas, but the director has changed yet again. Star Wars: The Force Awakens has Abrams leading the way. “Abrams is a Star Wars fan and I don’t think they could’ve chosen a better director. He has respect for the history and the fans of Star Wars,” Bishop said. “I’m just looking forward to the return of some of the older characters. And no Jar Jar Binks.”
SCHOOLS 19 Druid City Living’s Teachers of the Month
December 2015
by Courtney Corbridge
In November, we celebrated Thanksgiving, and for four wonderful weeks we also celebrated the teachers we are so thankful for. Here are just a few of the teachers who are making Tuscaloosa a better place to live and grow up in.
Ruthie Sherrill Flatwoods Elementary
Tiffany Craig Oakdale Elementary
Kathy Thompson Southview Elementary
Diana Marchant Woodland Forrest Elementary
After 37 years of teaching, Ruthie Sherrill is retiring this Month. Over the years, she has taught at various elementary schools—from Stafford to Central Magnet. “The first school I was in was a rural school,” Sherrill said. “And they didn’t even have a library at that time. That’s how old I am.” In addition to teaching, Sherrill has also been very active in the community. She has worked with Scouts, and she served on the board of Alabama ARISE (which has helped remove the sales tax on food for low-income families). Currently, she helps with Tuscaloosa’s Citizens against Predatory Lending group (TCAP). She hopes that all new teachers will get involved in the community—especially by calling and writing to the state’s legislators about our schools’ needs. Fun Fact: Sherrill was the first kindergarten teacher in Jackson County, Alabama.
In Tiffany Craig’s first-grade classroom, there is almost always classical music playing. Craig started playing music after lessons to help stimulate her students’ minds while they worked. At first, many of the kids didn’t know what to make of it. “Some would say things like, ‘Oh my gosh, what are you playing?’” But now, if Craig doesn’t turn on the music, she has students pipe up to say, “Ms. Craig, we need our brain music!” Craig does a lot to create a positive environment for her students. “When you make the environment more inviting, it makes the students want to be in the classroom and want to do well,” she said. Fun Fact: Craig does not like cats. “I don’t like cats to the point that I don’t even like to look at cats, “she laughingly said, “or pictures of cats!” When they come up in lessons at school, Craig quickly passes them by and tries to move on.
Though Kathy Thompson has been teaching for 26 years, she didn’t always plan on being an educator. At first, she simply wanted to stay home to be a mother. But when her husband’s jobs at the mine didn’t offer enough stability, she decided to go back to school. “I knew that I wanted to go into teaching,” she said. “But the idea of a whole class just didn’t appeal to me.” In order to work with smaller groups, she opted for teaching special education instead. “I like to talk about teaching the whole child—listening to them—and meeting them where they are instead of expecting them to be where their grade level says they are.” Fun Fact: When Thompson was in high school, she got a D — her worst grade ever — in her typing class. During the year, her hand had been run over with an ice skate, and so for a week she couldn’t type.
At Woodland Forrest Elementary, Diana Marchant has been guiding students to a greater love of science and nature for the last five years. Marchant doesn’t have just one class; rather, students from across the school come to her classroom for 45 minutes each week to get hands on experience. “We’re really the only school in the entire nation that has anything like this,” Marchant said. Marchant and her students have, with the help of countless volunteers and local Eagle Scouts, created an amphitheater, a garden, paths through the forest, a bridge for the trails, a boardwalk for the wetlands, a compost and an outdoor arithmetic program. They have big plans for the future. Fun Fact: Marchant’s mother specifically told her not to be a teacher, and for a while Marchant tried to go into accounting. After only a short stint she realized that teaching was her passion, and she came back.
Tuscaloosa City Schools Presents Apple Awards by Courtney Corbridge Alabama Teacher of the Year School Winners: • Sharetta Watkins (Arcadia Elementary School) • Jacqueline G. Dennis (Central Elementary School) • Tenesia Smith (Central High School) • Tracy Rice (Eastwood Middle School) • Julia Felicia Sanders (Martin Luther King Jr., Elementary School) • Rene Bailey (Northington Elementary School) • Lakesha S. Tillman (Northridge High School) • Tiffany S. Craig (Oakdale Elementary School) • Eva Gartman (Oak Hill School)
• Donmonique Morgan (Paul W. Bryant High School) • Mikki Powell (Rock Quarry Elementary School) • Anna Doig Daly (Rock Quarry Middle School) • Monique Stewart (Skyland Elementary) • Ayesha al-Shabazz (Southview Elementary School) • Albert D. Fowler Jr. (Southview Middle School) • Joseph Matthew Freeman Sr. (Tuscaloosa Career & Technology Academy) • Mary L. Schellhammer (The Alberta School of Performing Arts)
• Kathryn Busby (Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools-Elementary) • Lee Hayslip (Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools-Middle) • Joy Eddings (University Place Elementary) • William Thomas Flowers (University Place Middle School) • Jeffery Walker (Verner Elementary School) • Teyah Powell (Westlawn Middle School) • Whitney Javine (Woodland Forrest Elementary)
Each week, Druid City Living names a teacher of the week. But, once a year, the Tuscaloosa City School District hosts the Apple Awards, which honor some of the district’s greatest educators. This year, the ceremony will be held on Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. at the Tuscaloosa Career & Technology Academy. If you won’t be able to make it, here is a list of those who will be recognized as each school’s Alabama Teacher of the Year winner. If you see them, be sure to give them your support and love. They do so much hard work to help our community’s children succeed.
20 SPORTS December 2015 Friday Night Lights: Area Teams Compete in Postseason Action By Stan J. Griffin After a long and largely-successful 2015 regular season for high school football teams in the Tuscaloosa/West Alabama area, our area was also very well-represented in the postseason. In total, 20 local schools qualified for the state playoffs, and this included Aliceville, American Christian, Berry, Bibb County, Demopolis, Fayette County, Francis Marion, Gordo, Hillcrest, Linden, Marengo Academy, Northridge, Northside, Pickens Academy, Pickens County, Sulligent, Tuscaloosa Christian, Tuscaloosa Academy, West Blocton and Winfield. And although a host of area schools enjoyed tremendous years overall, including Gordo, American Christian, Hillcrest, Berry and Winfield, it ultimately came down to Lance Tucker’s Fayette County Tigers and Andro Williams’ Linden Patriots as the two teams that advanced all the way to the state semifinals. In that semifinal round, the Class 4A Tigers improved to 10-4 on the season with a convincing 32-0 road win over a Cordova team entering the game with a perfect 13-0 record and a team that had edged the Tigers out of the region title with an earlier win over Fayette County. Most importantly, however, the Tigers secured a trip to Bryant-Denny Stadium, the University of Alabama’s tradition-rich football cathedral, for the Super 7 state championships and a Class 4A title game matchup against the 12-2 Leeds Greenwave, the defending state champions. In that romp over Cordova’s Blue Devils, Tucker’s Tigers rolled to a 20-0 lead by halftime and rolled from there, as quarterback Drew Guy and Kerieq Sparks scored a pair of touchdowns each to spark Fayette County to the huge victory.
It did not turn out quite so well for the Patriots, however, in the semifinal round, as their hopes of a Class 1A title were dashed by a 50-19 loss at Maplesville. Maplesville broke open a close game by outscoring Williams’ team 27-6 in the fourth quarter. Linden finished 10-3, following a tremendous overall season. Although Fayette County proved to be the last one standing in terms of state championship hopes, there were numerous highlights for many of the
Tuscaloosa/West Alabama schools, including Gordo’s second-consecutive 10-0 regular season, Guy becoming the new single-season passing record-holder for Fayette County, Hillcrest standout running back Brian Robinson committing to the University of Alabama, the excellent play on both sides of the ball for Gordo standout Ben Davis, the prolific passing numbers of quarterbacks such as Berry’s James Raines and regional titles won by schools such as Gordo, Demopolis, Berry and Bibb County.
Fayette County Tigers’ QB Drew Guy helped lead his team to victory against a 13-0 Cordova team. The Tigers secured a trip to the Super 7 state championships at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Photo: Ron Harris, Jasper Daily Mountain Eagle
December Calendar of Events Holidays on the River: Through Jan. 18, Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. With Ice skating, music and dance performances and more, this event offers something for the entire family. For more information, visit holidaysontheriver.com or Holidays on the River on Facebook. 40th Annual West Alabama Christmas Parade, PARA: Dec. 7, downtown Tuscaloosa. Christmas tree lighting ceremony on the steps of the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse, 5:15 p.m. Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit tcpara.org. Sweet Escape: Dec. 10, 4 – 7 p.m. Bama Bed and Breakfast, downtown Tuscaloosa. This evening of shopping, pampering and chocolate tasting is for the women of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. For more information, call (205) 391-0559. The ACT Presents ‘A Christmas Story: The Musical’: Dec. 11-14, Bama Theatre, Tuscaloosa. The Actor’s Charitable Theater presents this holiday musical based on the classic Christmas film. Tickets: $14-20. For more information visit theact.info or call (205) 393-2800. The Dance Initiative Presents “Frozen”: Dec. 11-13, Central High School Theater, Tuscaloosa. The Dance Initiative presents its own interpretation of this modern classic Disney tale through original choreography. For ticket information, visit thedanceinitiative.com. Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents “Nuncrackers: the
Nunsense Christmas Musical”: Dec. 11-20, BeanBrown Theatre, Tuscaloosa. This family-friendly musical comedy is filled with “Nunsense” humor. To purchase tickets, visit theatretusc.com or call the Theatre Tuscaloosa Box Office at (205) 391-2277. Humane Society of West Alabama Christmas Critter Bazaar: Dec. 12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m..; Dec. 13 Noon -4 p.m. Pet Supplies Plus, Tuscaloosa. Handcrafted items, t-shirts, homemade gourmet dog and cat treats, Christmas decorations, magnets and other animal-related Christmas gift items will be for sale. For more information, visit humanesocietyofwa.org. Toys for Miners: Dec. 12, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Brookwood Park, Brookwood. Support area miners’ families. Events include a motorcycle run, a slow pitch tournament, and more. The entrance fee to the main event, which includes food and music, a live auction and pictures with Santa Claus, is one unwrapped toy. For more information, visit toysforminersd20. shutterfly.com. Stars for Peace and Elf Workshops: Dec. 12 and 19, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa (C.H.O.M.), downtown Tuscaloosa. This is a great opportunity for children of all ages to make holiday gifts for friends and family. For more information: (205) 349-4235 and chomonline.org. Home for the Holidays Adoption Event: Dec. 12, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter. Discounted adoption fees (all adoptions are $50),
refreshments, gift baskets raffles, a silent auction, games for kids, and more! For more information, call (205) 752-9101 or visit metroanimalshelter.org. A TSO Christmas: Dec. 14, 7 p.m. Moody Concert Hall, University of Alabama School of Music, Tuscaloosa. Don’t miss the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra’s annual sold-out classic, which features a myriad of holiday favorites, including sing-alongs and music from Steve Sample. For more information, including tickets, call (205) 752-5515 or visit www. tsoonline.org. United Way 2015 Campaign Celebration: Dec. 15, 5:30-7 p.m. Embassy Suites, Tuscaloosa. Join United Way of West Alabama for its 2015 campaign celebration where you’ll meet and hear from campaign volunteers and learn West Alabama’s fundraising total for the annual United Way campaign. For more information, contact Julie Mann at (205) 345-6640 or julie@uwwa.org. Christmas Afloat: Dec. 19, 5 p.m. Black Warrior River, Tuscaloosa and Northport. This holiday flotilla by the “Pirates of the Warrior” boat club is back for 2015. For more information, call (205) 310-4454 and check out Christmas Afloat 2015 on Facebook. New Year’s Eve for Kids: Dec. 31, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa (C.H.O.M.), downtown Tuscaloosa. The Balloon Drop happens at 11 a.m. For more information: (205) 349-4235 and www.chomonline.org.
22 FOOD
December 2015
DECEMBER RECIPES
Holiday Recipes: Breakfast and Dessert
Recipes and Photos by Amy Poore
Deep Dish Breakfast Bake • 1/2 lb. sausage (mild or hot) • 1 package crescent rolls • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese • 5 eggs • 1/4 cup milk • 1 tsp rosemary • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp pepper
Happy Holidays, all! No doubt many of you have treasured, favorite family recipes you love serving for Christmas dinner, so I hope these two recipes can fill in the gaps. If you have house guests for the holidays, this deep dish breakfast bake is tasty, satisfying and a snap to make. And for those with a sweet tooth, these old fashioned date balls are sure to be a hit. Ho Ho Ho, and bon appétit! Amy Poore is a mom, a wife and a foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, www.pooreamy.com
Old Fashioned Date Balls
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brown sausage over medium high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Roll out crescent rolls into a 9×13 pan sprayed with cooking spray. Press seams together as though to make a whole sheet of pastry. Sprinkle cooked sausage over dough, followed by cheddar cheese. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs with milk and add in rosemary, salt and pepper. Pour egg mixture over the cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until eggs are set and the crust is a golden color. Note: This can be made with bacon and diced ham in place of the sausage as well.
• 1 (8 oz.) package dates, chopped • 3/4 cup of sugar • 1 stick of butter • 1 cup chopped pecans • 2 ½ cups rice cereal • Powdered sugar
Cook dates, sugar and butter over medium heat, bring to boil, stirring constantly for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat. Carefully stir in pecans, followed by rice cereal. Let cool until comfortable for you to handle. Form into 1-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar. Makes 3-4 dozen depending on size.
TASTE OF TUSCALOOSA
301 Bistro opening in historic L&N Train Station Savvy area historians may know that Tuscaloosa’s L&N Train Station served as the passenger Louisville-to-Nashville train station for over five decades. The stunning building, located at 301 Greensboro Avenue, has since been rented out as a private events facility, hosting everything from “house” parties to wedding receptions. Now, the space will house downtown Tuscaloosa’s newest restaurant: 301 Bistro, Bar and Beer Garden, which is expected to open this month, offering nightly dinner and Sunday brunch. The owners of 301 Bistro are spiritedly calling the featured cuisine “Tuscaloosa fusion.” Owner Bill Lloyd said the restaurant will be an homage to all the things that make Tuscaloosa great. “It will honor the German community that is such an integral part of the area, as well as Tuscaloosa’s ‘southernness,’ with a bit of Creole and Gulf Coast,” Lloyd said. “We will, as much as possible, use fresh, locally grown seasonal vegetables, and the menu will include several vegetarian options.”
by Sheena Gregg
Lloyd added that 301 Bistro will offer authentic German sausage platters and giant Bavarian pretzels for beer garden patrons. “The dinner menu features true fusion dishes that incorporate German, Southern and Gulf Coast traditions,” he added. As the restaurant’s name indicates, 301 Bistro, Bar and Beer Garden will have something for everyone. Complementing the bold and eclectic dishes, the inside bar will feature craft cocktails as well as local craft beers, German classics, and various wine selections. The outside beer garden will provide beer and wine, while also offering a large range of appetizers that are also available in the indoor bar venue. Operating manager Sarah Thompson wants people to consider 301 Bistro as a regular, affordable hangout with friends and family. “We want people to think of the Bistro as a place to come for a regular happy hour or dinner after work,” Thompson said. “We don’t want to be considered just a special occasion venue but a place that people can come for great food all the time.” And while finding parking in parts of downtown Tuscaloosa can be challenging, 301 Bistro, Bar and Beer Garden has that angle covered. On-site parking will be available to accommodate approximately 90 vehicles. On-site parking will be available at 301 Bistro, located at 301 Greensboro Avenue in the old L&N Train Station. Photos: Britney McComb
Restaurant owner Bill Lloyd says the restaurant’s cuisine will be “Tuscaloosa fusion,” paying homage to the area’s German community, along with a bit of Creole and Gulf Coast flavors. Photos: Britney McComb
December 2015
FOOD 23
Photography: Bartosz Potocki
Christopher Designs Crisscut