October 2015 - Druid City Living

Tuscaloosa’s Feel Good News

October 2015 - Volume 2, Issue 10

Breaking Ground

Construction Begins on New YMCA Facility to Meet Growing Demand

By Cokie Thompson

Northridge Band Chosen to Play Sugar Bowl Halftime Full Story on PAGE 18

Tuscaloosa has gotten a little bigger than it was in the 1950s. The University of Alabama enrollment alone has climbed from less than 10,000 to more than 35,000, and the city has grown with it. The downtown YMCA has not grown. Next summer, a new facility will open to better meet the needs of the city.

YMCA CEO Walt Larissey said the current Y was built to meet needs of young men, rather than families they serve now. The current “I Believe” Capital Campaign is raising money for the project.

“In order to better serve the public, we’re building a new downtown facility, and this facility will serve our healthy living aspect, while the Benjamin Barnes facility serves our youth development and social responsibility core focuses,” Larissey said.

The new YMCA building will be located on 13th Street in Tuscaloosa, just behind the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education. While the facility as a whole will be

Continued on Page 11

Ground was officially broken on the Tuscaloosa YMCA Family Center in August.. Photo: YMCA of Tuscaloosa County

Kentuck Festival of the Arts Returns Oct. 17-18 Fall Recipes and Halloween Treats Complete Recipes on Page 22

Inside This Issue About Us City News Opinion Community Schools Sports Home & Garden Calendar Food

2 4 6 10 DruidCityLiving 12 18 20 21 @DruidCityLiving 22

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By Laurie Mundy Perrigin

Art lovers will descend on Kentuck Park soon, to enjoy one of the premiere art festivals in the country.

The 44th annual Kentuck Festival of the Arts will be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 17 and 18. More than 270 diverse artists will present their work and interact with festival-goers at Kentuck this year.

Nationally recognized for its quality and diversity, a stroll through the Kentuck Festival brings visitors eye-to-art with a variety of artistic styles ranging from folk to contemporary art and craft. Traditional and heritage craft artists such as basket weavers, blacksmiths, potters and quilters invite visitors to watch them demonstrate their skills and share the secrets of their craft.

Kentuck will feature a variety of live music and spoken word performances on two stages. This year’s lineup includes Debbie Bond and the Trudats, the Steel City Jug Slammers, The Bear and The Mulligan Brothers.

An interactive art environment in the center of the Festival entertains both young and old with an invitation to befriend a tuba at the musical petting zoo, squish clay, or indulge in fabric fantasies at the tie-dye area.

Free, continuous shuttles provide transportation to the park from downtown Northport. Advance purchase only weekend tickets are available online through Oct. 17 for $15 for ages 12 and up. Children under 12

are admitted free. Daily tickets are $10 per person per day. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. No pets, alcohol or smoking are allowed in the park.

The 44th annual Kentuck Festival of the Arts hours are Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For additional information on the 2015 festival, including the full artist lineup and the schedule for each day, visit kentuck.org or call (205) 758-1257.

Strolling through Kentuck Park and enjoying the Festival of the Arts on a sunny October afternoon is a Tuscaloosa tradition. Photo: Jeff Perrigin

2 ABOUT

October 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

Hearts and infants will be the focus as The DCH Foundation’s Lucy Jordan Ball will be held on Friday, Nov. 13 at the North River Yacht Club. The theme of black tie formal event “Heart and Soul,” is set to remember Ruth McAbee. The ball was a favorite of Mrs. McAbee’s, who believed the health of hearts and infants were of the highest importance. The proceeds from the ball will support the DCH Heart Fund and The Finn and Quinley Infant and Children’s Fund. The funds will help to secure equipment purchases for both the cardiac area and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a press release for the foundation said. Photo: The DCH Foundation

VisitTuscaloosa.com

4 CITY NEWS

October 2015

Mayor’s Minute – October 2015 Dear Friends and Neighbors, On October 3rd, I will have served as mayor for 10 years, and I am forever grateful to serve Tuscaloosa. It has been and continues to be an honor of a lifetime.

During our campaign in 2005, we proposed six core beliefs, which would be the foundation of how we would build a bridge to the future.

From providing pre-k to our children who were academically at-risk, to opening the doors of City Hall, our core beliefs have pointed us true north.

Adhering to our covenant with the people of Tuscaloosa has served us well when seizing the opportunities of downtown and riverfront development and through the challenges of the Great Recession and April 27, 2011.

Whether it has been Tuscaloosa 311 or providing much needed storm drainage infrastructure improvements in West Tuscaloosa through our Noah’s Arch Initiative, we have been driven to create accountable and results-oriented government.

For all the successes of the past 10 years, it is my deep and abiding belief in Tuscaloosa that has me even more excited about our future.

The opportunities on the horizon are significant.

Over the next 10 years, we will experience nearly $300 million in infrastructure improvements including the construction of McWrights Ferry Road which was recently funded through our Transforming Tuscaloosa County Legislation.

Over the next decade, we will continue to see our remarkable recovery in the 12 percent of the City destroyed on April 27, 2011, and experience the benefits of a robust and diverse local economy.

Clearly, column space is limited to discuss what we have accomplished and what we believe will occur in the years ahead. My hope is that you sense this amazing time in our City’s history. We have much to look forward to in the years ahead.

Sincerely, Walter Maddox

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6 OPINION

October 2015

The Mommy Chronicles: How to Ensure a “Sick-Free” Fall by Marlena Rice Transitioning to the fall months from the summer is always pleasant. The hot, humid, 97-degree days turn into the cool Alabama 70-degree weather we all love, especially when three out of four cars we pass around town are decorated with Big AL, houndstooth banners and huge lettering reading our favorite cry, “Roll Tide!”

Our little ones, however, have a much bigger adjustment to make during this time of year. When you have the ability to wear a t-shirt and shorts one day, and a sweater the next, sickness abounds. Here are a few tips to help our babies’ transition into a “sickfree” fall.

Say No to Germs Daycare moms, especially, understand the importance of good hygiene. Think about how often your little one puts toys in his or her mouth at home.

Now think about toys and playground equipment at school. I can almost see the germs! Make sure your little people wash their hands as frequently as possible, at home and at school.

Quick Tip: Try keeping hand sanitizer and wet wipes in the console of your vehicle, your purse (for the mommies) and even your child’s backpack for quick de-germing.

Make Stellar Food Choices When I was pregnant with my son, I was certain I would never become a “drive-thru mom” and feed into the chicken nugget craze. Well, real life happened. It is more than okay to give your children a quick happy meal on occasion, however, in order to help fight off the large number of germs our little people encounter within just a few hours of play time, it is important to give them immunity boosting foods. Try plenty of “rainbow-bright” foods, such as cantaloupe and baby carrots, or let them enjoy berry snacks, like strawberries and raspberries with yogurt

to dip. This way, their bodies will be ready when those germs begin to weasel their way in.

Dress the Dress With smaller children, we all know how quickly clothes are outgrown. On that same note, extending the wear of our little ones’ clothing is important, especially for us moms with more than one child.

Layer up! You know those cute, short-sleeved button ups that were great for wearing to summer church services? Yes, you can still wear them. Buy a few solid color long sleeved shirts in primary colors, which tend to match anything (red, blue, green, yellow). Throw one on underneath those short-sleeved shirts we love. For little girls, add a pair of cute tights, boots and a cardigan with those summer dresses that were great at the beach. Your kids will love looking “grown up.”

Breathe Fresh Air (Not stale, game room Nintendo air) This does not only include playing outdoors, even though that does wonders for healthy children. Open up some windows in your home and breathe some new air. Sometimes, when your child has a runny nose or you feel that a cold is coming on, running and sweating it out outside may do the job before you have to take off of work and grocery shop for chicken noodle soup and ginger ale.

Stay healthy and have a great fall!

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 this fall. Follow Marlena on Instagram at marlena_rice.

Beaux William, dressed and ready for school. Layering your children’s clothing as the weather changes makes the transition from t-shirts to sweaters a bit easier. Photo: Marlena Rice

OPINION 7 The Land of Oz: Halloween Etiquette and Costume Ideas October 2015

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.” Fall is in the air. Football is in full swing. The leaves are doing their best to don their red and yellow party dresses to look charming for the various festivals. Yes, October is awesome.

It also brings with it the safest holiday tradition of them all: When kids and parents put on their shady, dark outfits and forge ahead, roaming dimly lit streets at night in a door-to-door scavenger hunt for teeth-disintegrating choking hazards.

Smart, right?

But we’re not here to argue the points of halfbaked traditions in the annual quest for half-baked goodies, or how dentists across the country curse the overall practice (yet welcome your business with a smile).

Let’s talk Halloween etiquette, shall we?

When you come traipsing up to my house in pursuit of trickery and treatery, there is only one rule in effect in order to be awarded with one of the storebought goodies resting in my miscellaneous pot of chocolates: You must be wearing a costume.

In all fairness, I realize that not everyone has the means to come dressed in an official Big Al get-up or as an exact duplicate of Johnny Depp from Pirates of the Caribbean.

Furthermore, and perhaps most importantly, you don’t want to take a loss on the night. Profit margin on Halloween is a measure that sometimes gets ignored but is worth its weight in Jolly Ranchers and thus, bears mentioning.

ForLipstick example, if Ad_Layout you end 1up12/4/14 with 2:43 $20 PM worth Bradford Half Pg Pageof 1 candy in your recycled plastic Target bag from your excursion but you spent $50 on your costume, that’s

a $30 loss on the night. And who can afford to take that kind of Halloween hit in this economy?

It’s not about spending obscene amounts of money in order to earn a year-old Kit-Kat from the bowl, but rather the effort put forth in coming up with something creative. With that said, here are some horrible ideas for cheap costumes and the resulting profitability based on average Halloween collections of $20 worth of candy.

Dress as Trump Supplies: A used navy sport coat, an old white button-down, khakis, an old mop head for hair or a triangular shaped ball cap with the hand written words, “Make America Great Again.”

Net Gain: Roughly $15, depending on the cost of the mop head or the ball cap.

Dress as a Krispy Kreme box Supplies: A large box of donuts (cutting holes in each side for arms) and a free Krispy Kreme hat.

Net Gain: Roughly $10, plus you get to eat the donuts.

Dress as Walt Supplies: Running shorts, an old Mayor’s Cup 5K T-shirt, tennis shoes and one Diet Coke.

Net Gain: If you come dressed as the Mayor, you win. All the candy is yours.

Happy Halloween!

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

October 2015

Lake Living: Appreciating the Blues by Allison Adams Today I look at the lake with new eyes, appreciating the calm ripple of the waves, the way the recent cool snap has amplified the incredibly blue skies and the white reflections on the water, breathing it in as nature embraces the approaching fall.

Labor Day weekend I enjoyed a day of boating in Orange Beach. I experienced the encroaching popularity of a little place once off the beaten path (Pirate’s Cove) which is now a mecca of confusion and chaos. A stop at the Flora Bama Yacht Club was no better. It seems the world has discovered our little treasures along Alabama’s southernmost coast. I am not complaining - just happy I made it home alive. Our little hidden gem of Lake Tuscaloosa is looking better, especially because the water levels will remain this way until spring.

While on Lake Tuscaloosa waters I have yet to feel endangered by a boat, even when anchored along the many swimming spots. Solitude is still a luxury here, as shown by the numerous sail and paddle-boarders who enjoy the calm waters.

I will say we have been pulled over by marine police here on Lake Tuscaloosa more than anywhere else. In Orange Beach, I watched as the marine police paraded the channel, swarming Robinson Island like sharks watching prey. I was relieved, actually, to see them chase down a boat that was obviously made for fresh water mentality but had been unleashed on the open sea.

Today, I see police and servicemen in a new way.

Not only have we been reminded in September of the sacrifices our firemen and policemen made, but in recent events, from citizens of our own country, our

service men and women are under constant attack. I have friends who live their lives knowing their man in blue will be on the front lines, his five-year-old daughter oblivious to the dangers he faces each and every day. Still, he continues to love his job and to uphold the oath he took to protect and serve, no matter what.

Tuscaloosa has a Marine Police Branch located at Lake Tuscaloosa, where both city policemen and state troopers are utilized to keep our waterways safe.

There is a nearly 25 member local volunteer branch of the Coast Guard Auxillary who train on Lake Tuscaloosa and the Black Warrior River.

They assist the local police in waters as far north as Birmingham and south to Demopolis, as well as Lake Tuscaloosa. They encourage volunteers who are passionate about the water and willing to adhere to the strict training standards that the professional Coast Guard and police members endure.

Feeling the urge for a day on the water? Rent a pontoon at Smith’s Marina (7 days a week, 205-339-4415) or reserve a paddleboard in front of Another Broken Egg (on the Black Warrior River or Lake Nichol - they deliver 205-394-1054) for some effortless fun.

For now, I am thinking of changing the title to this column from Lake Living to “Notes from Some Solemn Place that You Don’t Need to Know About.”

Selfish I know, but hey, even if you don’t live on the lake and have time to go out for a full day, you can ease out past Rock Quarry Elementary School beside PARA, pull out a lawn chair, sit at one of the stone picnic tables, put your feet up and enjoy the Little

“Today, I see police and service men in a new way.”

Allison Adams

Lake that is still a hidden treasure. Or find one of the many boat launches and make a day of it! Just don’t bring too many friends! And if you see a policeman on the way, maybe stop and give him or her a thanks or a salute.

Blessings, and take time to enjoy this great weather on a lake, stream or your own backyard!

Find Allison Adams’ musings at www.allisonpadams.com and her recent Tuscaloosa related coloring pages for all ages at www.southernscribblings.com.

Follow her on Twitter at @ArtAllie.

OPINION 9

October 2015

Give Life to Your Story: Joy by Mike Green On August 24, an amazing thing happened in the Green family. Our daughter and son in law became the proud parents of Jaxon Charles Lindsey. I had been informed by many that grand-parenting is a great gig and it has lived up to all the hype. And though I could spend these paragraphs retelling the story of his grand entrance into the world and adorable things he has done, I am going to choose to share what might be of a bit more value to you.

With Jaxon’s arrival, I was reminded of what a challenge life becomes adjusting to the new normal. Parenting is a monumental task - one that I was completely unprepared for as a young dad. Interrupted sleep, added financial

pressure and just wondering where all my free time disappeared created more than a little stress. What I was also completely unprepared for was how quickly my heart would be captured by each of our little ones. When each of our two were born I was flooded with very new emotions. Those early days were a change and a challenge. But they were full of incredible joy as well.

It is this experience that I would like to have you recall as a parent of a teenager. I think that remembering the incredible challenge and reward of being a new parent will spur you on in your efforts to parent your high school or middle school student well. Maybe you are currently facing what seems to be all of the challenge and little of the joy. But hang in there. You and I both need to remember that joy, unlike happiness, is much less about our daily circumstances and much more about seeing the big picture of life. You might call it “having God’s perspective.” Look at the challenges you are going through in relationships with your son or daughter in the context of all the joyous moments leading up to today and those that still await

Mike and Laura Green

you in the future.

Seeing the big picture and remembering all the incredible blessings that have come our way through our kids can help us on those really tough days.

Maybe a stroll down memory lane via old pictures just might stir your will to hang on.

If you were like me as a new parent there were days, as well as long nights, that I doubted I had the stuff to survive the new demands of life. But we made

it through. And every bit of the lost sleep and uncertainty was worth it. I’m so glad I didn’t give up. As you deal with your teenager, realize it will all be worth it. My prayer is that you will hang in there and experience all the joy that God has planned for you and your family.

Mike Green and his wife Laura serve on staff of Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ. They have two grown children and one grandchild.

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10 COMMUNITY

Tales of

October 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

Druid City? Queen City? Tuscaloosa’s Nicknames: October 21, 1844

Big Apple, Bean Town and Windy City are some easily recognizable nicknames for American cities, but what about Tuscaloosa’s most common monikers—“Druid City” and “Queen City”? What connects ancient European pagans with a town in Alabama? Why does Tuscaloosa share Queen City with Cincinnati, Ohio, and Meridian, Mississippi?

The Druids were early Celtic people of Britain, Ireland and Gaul (France). Nearly 2000 years ago, Roman historian Pliny the Elder noted their reverence for oak groves as sacred places. Particularly large, old oak trees thus became known to many as Druid oaks.

On October 21, 1844, the City of Tuscaloosa mandated that property owners along Main Street plant “Swamp or Willow Oaks.” The trees grew quickly, and by the late 19th century, they were described by one writer as “embowering our daily walk with an evergreen parasol.” Oaks were planted along other streets as well and became appreciated for their beauty and summer shade. Thus, the name Druid City probably came into use.

As the decades went by, Druid City became popular. Businesses, civic groups, neighborhoods and even the local hospital adopted Druid as part of their names.

Cincinnati became known as the Queen City after the poet Longfellow called it the “Queen of the West” in an 1854 poem. In the late 19th century, a group of British investors consolidated several railroads including the

Alabama Great Southern (AGS) to create the Queen and Crescent Route, since it connected Cincinnati and New Orleans, the Crescent City.

Mayor W. C. Jemison was a strong promoter of Tuscaloosa’s position on one of the nation’s main rail corridors. Two principal streets, East Margin and South Margin were renamed Queen City Avenue and Crescent City Avenue as shown on an 1887 map. Later, Crescent City Avenue became 15th Street when the street numbering system came into use, but Queen City Avenue, which terminated at the AGS Station, retained its name. As a result, people began referring to Tuscaloosa as the Queen City.

Further down the Queen and Crescent Route, Meridian, Mississippi, developed as a major rail center, since the line forked and extended south to New Orleans and west to the Pacific Coast from there. Thus, Meridian also became known as the Queen City.

Tuscaloosa has some less common nicknames. Oak City has been used occasionally as far back as the mid-19th century, T-Town became popular with younger residents, and after Alabama’s football team won national championships in 2009, 2011 and 2012, the City of Champions was offered on signage as a new nickname.

If you have a comment or question for local historian and author Jim Ezell, you can email him at Ezell0071@comcast.net.

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Winter view of a particularly large oak on 13th Street in Tuscaloosa. Photo: Jim Ezell

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COMMUNITY 11

October 2015

YMCA

continued from page 1

smaller than the current one, the functional spaces will be bigger. Outside, there will eventually be a pool, a splash pad, a YMCA playground and a park run by Tuscaloosa County Parks and Recreation Authority. The facility will be constructed in phases.

“We’re going to build a facility that allows the entire family to come, be that for child development, healthy living, family atmosphere,” Larissey said.

“If you come in and work out in the afternoon, our goal is that your child has their homework done before you leave your workout so you can go home and spend time as a family.”

Ground was broken for the new Tuscaloosa YMCA Family Center in August, with construction set for completion in 2016, but the project has been

in the works since the building was sold in 2009.

Ashley Waid, who came on as Wellness Director in January, said the campaign has been a focus this year.

“That’s all that has been on my mind is the Capital Campaign and helping and doing whatever I can, on top of helping run the facility we have,” Waid said.

Waid is also a Junior League board member. The Junior League of Tuscaloosa has contributed to the Capital Campaign and plans to continue working with the YMCA in the future.

Brandt Garrison, the Communications Vice President for the Junior League of Tuscaloosa, said they had been looking for a project that would allow

them to have a long-term impact on the community when they found out about the Capital Campaign.

“This partnership really aligns with the things we were looking to do,” Garrison said, “The Y, their focus on the community, their focus on the children, the all-around aspects of how we can serve our community.”

Garrison said the project is part of the Junior League’s goal to improve the community.

“It’s a great partnership,” Garrison said. “Our goal is to invest in something long-term for the community and this fits that. We’re excited for the Y and what they’re doing for Tuscaloosa.”

For more information or to donate, visit ymcatuscaloosa.org.

Renderings Courtesy of YMCA of Tuscaloosa County

12 COMMUNITY Local Paranormal Expert Offers Halloween Ghost-Hunting Advice

By Tori Linville Halloween is right around the corner and there’s costumes to wear, candy to be passed out and fun times to be had.

If part of your plan happens to be trying to communicate with the other side, however, you might want to rethink things. David Higdon, founder and lead investigator for the Tuscaloosa Paranormal Research Group, has plenty of reasons why ghosts should be left to the professionals.

Higdon has investigated his fair share of sites around Tuscaloosa, Birmingham and other areas with his team, including places such as The Jemison- Van De Graaff Mansion, Sloss Furnace and other locations both private and public. Though unexplained things do occur, the gig isn’t as exciting as people would like to think, Higdon said.

“I’ve heard voices, footsteps, seen people get scratched, that kind of stuff,” he said. “But doing what I’m doing, 95 percent of the time, nothing happens. You spend the night in the dark at two and three o’clock in the morning, ready to go home. Then you get that five percent that makes you keep wanting to do what we’re doing.”

The Tuscaloosa Paranormal Research Group is one of three members in Alabama of The Atlantic Paranormal Society, known as TAPS. TAPS appears on SyFy in a self-titled show and the TPRG matches TAPS with most of the equipment used during investigations, from motion sensors to digital infrared cameras, Higdon said.

Higdon has also been featured in A&E’s “My Ghost Story” after he and his team investigated the Tallassee Community Library in Tallassee, Alabama. Higdon said the unnerving investigation led to one of the few times he had to walk out of a room in order to gather himself.

“They’d [the client] been seeing ghost kids walking around. It [the library] used to be an old boys’ club and before that the foundation used to be a civil war hospital. They kept

seeing a civil war soldier walking around also,” he said. “One particular spot where I had to back out of the room was when I heard two knocks in the kids’ library part. I went in there alone to try and get some kind of response. I had to back out to calm myself down and I went back in there and got someone to come back in with me. If I have someone with me, we have two people that heard the same thing, so it’s more validated.”

Higdon then said a piece of plywood over a fireplace came crashing down by itself, followed by motion sensors being set off by rocking horses moving on their own.

And for those interested people who are thinking about having some Halloween fun with ghosts, Higdon said it simply isn’t a good idea.

“Don’t play with a Ouija board, don’t get a tape recorder and stay in your house thinking you’re going to get something. If someone does whip out a Ouija board, walk away,” he said. “Don’t do it at your house – that’s one of the main things I wish someone had told me.”

“And don’t go into Old Bryce.”

“Old Bryce” refers to the abandoned, antebellum-style building located in Northport that has long been thought to be haunted.

Stressful environments in the home or heightened emotions can create unwanted and unintentional activity, Higdon said.

For more information on the areas around Tuscaloosa and Alabama, Higdon has co-written two books, “Haunted Tuscaloosa” and “Haunted Alabama Blackbelt” with Brett Talley. To see more about TPRG’s investigations and equipment, visit tuscaloosaparanormal.com. TPRG can also be contacted at (205)-5633850. The group doesn’t charge for investigations.

“Just don’t be calling them in,” Higdon said. “What a Ouija board is doing is inviting them in, and sometimes when you invite them in, they won’t leave.”

Clockwise from top right: Higdon has co-written two books with Brett Talley, including “Haunted Tuscaloosa”; Higdon does not recommend that anyone attempt to visit “Old Bryce,” which is supposedly haunted; The Old Bryce asylum’s walls are now covered in graffiti; Ouija Boards are said to invite ghosts. Photos: David Higdon, Wikimedia Commons

October 2015

COMMUNITY 11

October 2015

Brenton: “I want to be Optimus Prime for Halloween. My mom is gonna sew my costume because she is good at it. My favorite candy is Reese’s! Man, they are sooooooo goooood!”

Marianna: “I want to be a gymnast for Halloween. I like g’nastics. They just moved me up at my gym because I was getting so much better at g’nastics! I like Halloween because I get to dress up and we go to different houses and last year I even got to Trick or Treat at the Fire Station!”

Spooks, Princesses and things that go “BOO”We asked some little Trick or Treaters, “What does Halloween mean to you?”

Oh, what will you be, on that special night?

When bats, ghosts and superheroes all take flight…

Will you dress all in shimmers, with a glittery crown?

Or will you be something scary when the sun goes down?

—Alicia Jenné

Caitlin: “I want to be Iron Man! He’s in the Avengers and last year I was Captain America.

Iron Man is in the Lego Movie. I like his iron jet!

The thing I like about Halloween is that we get rid of our disgusting candy and get good stuff instead!”

Kris: “I want to be Spider Man for Halloween.

He is my favorite super hero! My favorite thing is getting to eat cookies and candy after we Trick or Treat!”

14 COMMUNITY

October 2015

Making Strides Walk Raises Money for Cancer Research

‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Opens Theatre Tuscaloosa’s New Season

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer will hold its 5th annual walk on Oct. 17 at Government Plaza in Tuscaloosa. Making Strides of Tuscaloosa celebrates those who have survived breast cancer and raises funds to help the fight against it. Since coming to Tuscaloosa 2011, the number of participants in Making Strides of Tuscaloosa has continued to grow. The American Cancer Society hopes to have over 1,000 walkers participating in this year’s walk.

Julie Coop of the American Cancer Society says Making Strides of Tuscaloosa has strong local support, with corporate sponsors and employees and families getting behind the cause.

“The community as a whole has truly embraced us, and we believe that’s because everyone has been affected by breast cancer.”

In addition to multiple local sponsors, this year marks the beginning of a new partnership with Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, which serves as the official “survivor sponsor.”

“These ladies are truly champions in the fight against breast cancer, and we are excited to have them ‘Make Strides’ with us,” said Coop.

On walk day, several tents will be set up in Government Plaza for the flagship sponsors, The Lewis and Fay

By Brandie Rickett Bowden

Manderson Cancer Center at DCH and Mercedes Benz US International.

There will also be a tent for participants to learn more about how to join the fight against cancer, as well as a “Strides Store” with a variety of pink items for purchase. Proceeds go towards the fight against breast cancer.

ACS is excited to share a new fundraising campaign at the walk, “Real Men Wear Pink.” Initially launched on September 1, local men have committed to wearing pink every day until October 17 as well as fundraising.

To get involved, gather a group of friends and sign up for a team.

Create a fundraising goal and collect donation from friends, family, and co-workers. Follow and share Making Strides of Tuscaloosa on social media. Sign up to volunteer. Tell others your own breast cancer story.

“Our ultimate dream is to end breast cancer (and all cancers) forever,” said Coop. “We feel confident that the Making Strides Walk in Tuscaloosa will continue to grow for many years to come. We are so appreciative of the communities in West Alabama who have opened their arms to us and joined us in the fight against breast cancer.”

Theatre Tuscaloosa begins its 2015-16 season this fall with To Kill a Mockingbird, a play based on the critically-acclaimed book by Alabama-native Harper Lee. “When rumors began to swirl about a possible second book by Harper Lee was to be published,” said Tina Turley, Executive Producer of Theatre Tuscaloosa, “I thought ‘Hey now would be a good time to revisit the story of To Kill a Mockingbird.’ The day the news hit, I called the publishing company to get the rights.”

Mockingbird takes place in Alabama during the Great Depression. It follows Scout, Jem, and Dill as they grow up in the Deep South, learning about life and coming of age. The beginning of the story shows them making speculations about their recluse neighbor, Boo Radley, who they’ve never seen. By the end, the children find themselves facing such issues as racial prejudice and justice/injustice when the judge appoints Scout and Jem’s father, Atticus Finch, to defend a local black man accused of a crime against a white woman.

“It is a magnificent story that translates well to the stage,” she said. “It is Alabama people. It is us. It’s our story and Harper Lee blesses us with universal truths like ‘You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view, climb into his skin and walk around in it.’”

Theatre Tuscaloosa brought this production to Shelton State’s Bean-Brown Theatre back in 2004. Some of the names from the 2004 credits will repeat in the upcoming production: Paul Looney, director; Jeff Wilson as Atticus Finch; and Cleveland “Von” Ewing as Tom Robinson.

“It will be different just because you can never truly exactly recreate a live theatre work,” Turley said. “I think Jeff Wilson was wonderful in 2004 but I think he brings even more depth and maturity to the role now.”

Mockingbird runs October 23-November 1 in Shelton State’s Bean-Brown Theatre. Purchase tickets online at theatretusc.com or call the ticket office at (205) 391.2277.

“Watching the play makes the story ‘fresh and new’ again,” said Turley.

“We still have a lot to learn from this story.”

POWER TO

HOME

© 2015 Alabama Power Company

Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one. Meet Rita Burns. She recently built her fi rst home, and with the help of Alabama Power, was able to make sure it was as comfortable and efficient as she imagined it could be. With a simple call to Alabama Power for advice and direction, Rita now has a comfortable place that her whole family can enjoy. That’s power to turn a house into a home.

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COMMUNITY 15

October 2015

Bestselling Author to Visit Tuscaloosa

By Tori Linville The Tuscaloosa Public Library will host Christina Baker Kline, author of “Orphan Train,” a New York Times Bestseller, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15. The library will also host a lunch the same day at noon at Cypress Inn Restaurant.

Kline has written four other novels, including “Bird in Hand” and “Sweet Water.” Her nonfiction books include topics such as motherhood in “Child of Mine” and “Room to Grow.”

A multi-tasker in her day to day, Kline said her biggest struggle with writing is avoiding distractions.

“In my ‘normal’ life, when I’m not writing, I rarely do one thing at a time. But when you write, you can only write. You can’t do laundry or wash dishes. You can’t make sandwiches or talk on the phone,” she said. “It’s just you and the lined paper – or blank screen – in front of you. You have to let the world in your head grow until it becomes more important than the world you inhabit. You have to calm your heartbeat, slow your skipping brain, become comfortable with silence. You have to accept that you will get nothing done except this one thing – this one paragraph or page or, perhaps, on a good day, a chapter – and possibly not even that.”

Historical fiction is a favorite of Kline’s, as she shows in “Orphan Train.” The novel explores the phenomenon of trains that traveled from East coast cities to the Midwest. The trains were normal except for one thing – they carried thousands of orphans across the country looking to be adopted from 1854 to 1929.

With grandparents who were once orphans themselves, Kline said she became interested in the

orphan trains because of her family members. The research that historical fiction often requires was no sweat to Kline, as she said she was eager to learn.

“As a novelist, I’ve always been fascinated with how people tell the stories of their lives and what those stories reveal–intentionally or not–about who they are. I’m intrigued by the spaces between words, the silences that conceal long-kept secrets, the elisions that belie surface appearance,” she said. “I wanted to write about how traumatic events beyond our control can shape and define our lives. Like my four previous novels, Orphan Train wrestles with questions of cultural identity and family history.”

As for those working on their own novels, Kline said she encourages writers to simply reach some kind of finish line.

“Write, write, write. Finish a draft. Revise.

Revise again. Keep going, even when you want to despair. (I always think of Winnie-the-Pooh stuck in the rabbit hole: he can’t go back, so he has to go forward. At a certain point in the process of writing a novel it feels that way to me. Every time.) The single most important thing is to FINISH,” she said.

“Many extremely talented writers I know and have taught can’t seem to finish a manuscript. At a certain point, they abandon it and start over. The dream is always so much more perfect than the reality.”

Kline is sponsored by the Kate Webb Ragsdale Author Series Fund. The fund is known for having brought author Rick Bragg to the library, allowing for audiences to see and hear him read at no cost.

Since the visit, the fund has grown to exceed $18,000 due to generous donations, according the TPL website.

Kline’s 2013 novel “Orphan Train” is an international bestseller, with over two million copies in print.

Photo: ChristinaBakerKline.com

The cost for the lunch will be $25 and will include a meal. Proceeds will support the fund. Those interested can call the Tuscaloosa Public Library at (205)-345-5820 ext. 1110 for tickets.

16 COMMUNITY

October 2015

2 4

1 3

Tuscaloosa Business News August Ribbon Cuttings Tuscaloosa Tennis & Fitness, LLC — 715 21st Ave. Tower Loan — 65th Street Unit #3 The Whistle Dixie — 6531 Hwy 69 S, Suite B Anthony’s Italian Kitchen — 1351 McFarland Blvd, NE Ste. 112 SpringHill Hotel — 4020 Greensboro Ave. Pro Wash — River Walk (Near Orange Leaf) Alberta School of the Arts — 2700 University Blvd. E University Medical Center, Northport — 1326 McFarland Blvd., Ste. 102 Black Warrior Dental Center — 535 Jack Warner Parkway NE, J-1 Belief Experiment — 2325 University Blvd.

September Ribbon Cuttings Gary Rath State Farm — 1241 McFarland Blvd Psychiatry South, Inc. — 825 Rice Mine Rd. N Redecorating Chez Vous — River Walk/Greensboro Ave. Band of Brothers Brewing Company, LLC — 1605 23rd Ave. Crimson Village — 1410 18th Ave. East Texas Roadhouse — 1363 McFarland Blvd. E Walmart Neighborhood Market — 4211 Hargrove Rd. E October Ribbon Cuttings

1. Cost Plus World Market — 1320 McFarland Blvd.

2. Bama Bed and Breakfast — 46 Sherwood Drive 3. DSW — 1320 McFarland Blvd.

4. Monkey Joe’s Tuscaloosa (Opening 10/23) — 200 14th St. Ste. 2

If If you are a local Tuscaloosa business and want to share your news with the community, let us know.

Email: Editor@DruidCityLiving.com

Welcome!

18 SCHOOLS

October 2015

Northridge High School Band to Play Sugar Bowl Halftime

By Stan J. Griffin

Anyone with even a casual knowledge of college football is well aware that the Sugar Bowl has long been one of the most prestigious postseason events in the history of the sport.

Last season’s Sugar Bowl matchup between Alabama and Ohio State in New Orleans, in fact, was one of the most significant in the annals of the fabled bowl as it was featured as one of the semifinal matchups of the Inaugural College Football Playoff.

And while the next edition of the Allstate Sugar Bowl, to be played Jan. 1, 2016, at the Mercedes Benz Superdome, will no doubt feature a great matchup of two of college football’s elite programs, the game will have even more of a special meaning for Northridge High School band director John Cain.

Cain’s band was chosen earlier this year to participate in a mass high school band performance that will occur during halftime of the Sugar Bowl contest.

“We got an application around February to go to the Sugar Bowl, and we sent all that information in and received confirmation, maybe in April, that we had been accepted as one of the performing groups at the Sugar Bowl this year in New Orleans,” said Cain, who is in his eighth year as the school’s band director. “We’re one of 13 groups from across the country that were selected to participate in this. So we’re real excited.”

He said the band will head to the “Big Easy” December 29, and he said that several activities are planned for the group once they arrive in that legendary city.

Cain said there is a particular company that selects bands for all of the bowl games, and the company sends out “feelers” to bands all over the nation.

“At that point, all of the bands have the opportunity to present an application, which includes video of the band, and that kind of information,” he noted.

“Every year we do typically like a spring trip, and this is something that we were looking at possibly doing as a bigger trip over the holidays. The kids are really excited about it.”

Cain said there are about 100 students in the NHS marching band, adding that the band has grown steadily over the past few years.

“Each year I feel like we’re a little more mature in the way we present ourselves as far as marching and playing, and all the different aspects that go into a marching band,” he said. “It’s been fun to see the group grow over the last several years. I think some of them were in disbelief (when they found out they had been accepted for the Sugar Bowl trip). We had talked about it, and I had told them I sent in the paperwork, but when they found out we are really going, they were really excited about it.”

Cain said while the band has enjoyed various trips in the past, he calls this trip “a lot more intense” in terms of the money that must be raised.

“We’re pushing hard and it’s great that we’ve gotten a lot of community support,” he said. “It’s going to cost between $950 and $1,000 per person, so we’re looking at raising close to $95,000. The kids are doing a lot to raise that (through various sales projects and other endeavors). We just finished selling a lot of Northridge apparel and we have a

project out at Bryant-Denny Stadium where we’re installing seats there. We are in the process of installing about 17,000 seats. So the kids are working real hard and doing everything they can. It’s a common goal that we have to get the kids there.”

For anyone wishing to donate to the band’s New Orleans fundraising effort, they can send that donation to Northridge High School, Attention: John Cain, and the school also has a fundraising account set up at JamisonMoneyFarmer PC., in conjunction with the Tuscaloosa City Schools Foundation. The donation to that entity would be tax-deductible.

Those wishing to help out can also call Northridge High School at (205) 759-3590.

Northridge High School band members during a recent practice session inside the NHS band room. Photo: Stan Griffin

SPORTS 19

October 2015

Tuscaloosa Full of Standout High School Football Talent

By Stan J. Griffin High school football season is always one of the most anticipated times of the year in Tuscaloosa/ West Alabama.

And the 2015 season definitely has not disappointed, with a host of area teams who continue to excel as the playoffs inch ever closer, and also several gifted prep standouts who have enjoyed brilliant individual seasons thus far.

The following are just a few of the area teams who have led the way in terms of enjoying stellar seasons: Gordo Greenwave: With Ryan Lolley in his third year at the helm of the Gordo coaching job, his team entered the season with high expectations in Class 3A Region 4. Gordo has definitely lived up to the hype, having rolled to a No. 2 ranking in the state and a 6-0 record (3-0 in the region). This is a team with much firepower and that was displayed once again recently when the Greenwave knocked off No. 7 and previously-undefeated American Christian 49-28.

Northside Rams: Chris Hilliker, in his third year in Samantha, also has the Rams rolling in Class 4A Region 4 with a perfect 6-0 overall record (3-0 in region play) as of the first week of October.

Berry Wildcats: A high-octane offense has led Berry to a No. 10 class ranking and a 5-1 start (4-0 in Class 1A Region 6) under 12th-year Wildcat coach Danny Raines. The highlight of the season thus far was a dramatic 38-36 road comeback win over No. 1 Hubbertville.

Tuscaloosa Academy: Although the Knights recently suffered a tough home loss to No. 2 Bessemer Academy, Robert Johnson still had TA off to a solid 4-2 start. The Knights are very experienced, especially in their offensive skill positions and along the offensive line. TA is hoping that experience will lead it back to the AISA playoffs.

Hillcrest Patriots: Sam Adams is in his second year as coach of the Patriots, and, despite a tough schedule, had led the Pats to a stellar 5-2 start, including a 3-0 record in Class 6A Region 4. Hillcrest returned four starters on offense and five on defense coming into the 2015 season.

Northridge Jaguars: Mike Smith is in his 13th season as Jaguars coach and he led his team to a 5-2 start, including a 2-2 record in Class 6A Region 4. Northridge returned 13 starters heading into the season and is looking for a return trip to postseason play.

Some of the key individual standouts in the area include: Ben Davis, Gordo: The son of former Alabama linebacker Wayne Davis, Davis is being recruited hard by several schools, including the Crimson Tide, as he is a weapon on both sides of the ball. In a recent win over American Christian, Davis had nine tackles and picked off a pass defensively while catching a pair of passes on offense, including a touchdown snag.

Brian Robinson, Hillcrest: The talented senior tailback has been an integral part of the success of Sam Adams’ Patriots, and is also getting serious

Friday Night Lights ACA Football Photos By Stan J. Griffin There is something simply magical about Friday nights under the lights.

Of course the Tuscaloosa/West Alabama area is immediately associated with University of Alabama football, and the outstanding and enduring tradition of the Crimson Tide program.

But on Friday nights during the fall, it is all about high school football, which also happens to carry a tremendous tradition of its own in the Druid City area.

Tuscaloosa/West Alabama can stand with any area in the state when it comes to legendary players, teams and rivalries that are associated with it, with many of those teams having enjoyed championship success.

But as we all well know, the charm of Friday night is more than just about memorable team wins and incredible individual heroics on the field.

Friday night is when communities come together to support their children, grandchildren or even nieces, siblings or buddies, whether they are on the football team, the marching band or perhaps the cheerleading squad. Maybe they just happen to be ball boys or members of the sideline chain crew.

Friday nights are about the smell of burgers being grilled at the concession stands, friends taking time to visit with other friends at the ticket booth before they enter the gates for a night of fun and cheerleaders both young and old rooting for the favorite teams and players while keeping the crowd into the spirit of things.

looks from a host of colleges, including Alabama.

Of course he has one of the biggest games by any single individual in the state this year when he rushed for a Class 6A single-game state record 447 yards on 29 carries against Clay-Chalkville along with four TD runs. He also caught a scoring pass in that game and has continued to roll ever since.

Devin Hollie, Paul W. Bryant: The junior running back for the Stampede has helped lead Eldrick Hill’s team to a 5-2 record, and recently had another huge game with 169 yards and a pair of scores to lead the Stampede over Woodlawn.

Alex Maluda, Northside: As Chris Hilliker’s Rams have made the Samantha community proud with a 6-0 record, including a 3-0 record in Class 4A Region 4, it has been dependent on a host of seniors including the talented Maluda. He has paced the Northside offense all season and has more than made up for the loss of graduated former standout running back A.J. Travis.

Eldrick Jones, Central: Although Dennis Conner’s Falcons have struggled at times to a 3-3 record, the senior running back has continued to excel for Conner’s team, going over the 1,000-yard plateau for the second-consecutive year.

Other standouts include quarterbacks Tommy Bryant of Northridge, Koy Chapman of Gordo and Keonte Chambers of Tuscaloosa Academy, as well as running backs Caleb Squires of American Christian, DeMontez Hinton of Aliceville, Keshon Burrell of Holt, Collin Herring of Gordo and A.J. Johnson of Berry.

20 OUTDOOR

October 2015

It’s Pumpkin Patch Season It’s that time of year: Everyone’s gearing up for Halloween, and if you’re looking to take the kiddos out for a great afternoon in a pumpkin patch, you’ve got a couple of excellent options nearby.

The Tuscaloosa Barnyard The Tuscaloosa Barnyard Petting Farm & Pumpkin Patch is open Friday-Sunday throughout October.

The Barnyard is a local 15-acre farm that offers a unique way for children and adults to get up close and personal with a variety of different farm animals.

The Barnyard is offering visitors hayrides and pumpkin patch, as well.

Their new addition for the fall 2015 Pumpkin Patch is a Jumping Pillow.

Admission is $15 per person. The Barnyard is located on Turner Bridge Road in Tuscaloosa.

Hours of Operation Fridays and Saturdays in October: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sundays in October: 1 to 5 p.m.

For more information about the Tuscaloosa Barnyard, visit tuscaloosabarnyard.com or the official Facebook page. You can reach the Barnyard owner, Kami Combs, at (205) 248-0773 or (205) 454-8841.

Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch The Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch is another excellent option for parents hoping to get their children to enjoy the great outdoors. This farm, located near the Mercedes-Benz plant on Griffin Road in West Blocton, is open every weekend in October.

Attractions at the Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch include pumpkin picking, hayrides, a petting zoo, pony rides, a corn maze and a bouncy obstacle course.

Hours of Operation Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sundays: 12 to 6 p.m.

For more information about the Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch, including private school tours, call (205) 535-0552 or the official website at griffinfarmsal.com.

Pumpkin patches and hayrides are a fall seasonal staple for families with children. Photo: Stock

Cultivating Your Green Thumb with Garden Conferences by Judith Rives

Linda Franzo, owner of The Passionate Platter in Slidell, Louisiana, conducts cooking classes on a regular basis and demonstrates her craft with others at garden meetings. Photo: Judith Rives

Ok, I admit it: I am a garden conference junkie. It’s really hard for me to pass one up. I just returned from a one-day conference in Clanton, sponsored by the Alabama Master Gardeners Association. There were programs on permaculture, seed saving, pollination in the garden, and bulbs. In the next six weeks, there are more events I’m already registered for, including an herb cooking class, a local one-day conference, and a 3-day native plants conference.

Don’t get me wrong - there is no substitute for just getting out in your own garden with your hands in the soil. However, garden classes provide you with great information and inspiration, and you sometimes need the basics to springboard into your grand garden experiment.

If you’re interested in gardening, learning opportunities abound! Events range from short classes to threeday conferences. Some may even be hands-on workshops, which are especially fun to attend with friends.

For several years, my mom and I chose one workshop to attend together each fall. That was years ago, and that nursery is now closed, but there are others that offer similar classes.

Petals from the Past in Jemison has an ongoing list of classes that can be found on their website.

Groups such as Master Gardeners or Birmingham Botanical Gardens (BBG) sponsor many educational opportunities, and you don’t have to be a member to attend the workshops.

Educational outreach is actually the mission of the Master Gardener program, in support of the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service.

If you are interested in native plants, there is an entire course of study offered through BBG, and you can take one class or the entire series. The South Central Native Plant Conference will be held Oct. 30-31 at BBG and is only scheduled every other year. Information can be found at bbgardens.org.

Locally, the Tuscaloosa County Master Gardeners will host a fall seminar on Saturday, October 17, at the Tuscaloosa County Extension Auditorium. The keynote speaker is Roald Hazelhoff, director of the Southern Environmental Center at Birmingham-Southern College, who will speak on urban forests. There are also programs on native trees, honeybees, and bulbs, tubers and corms. The cost is $25, which includes lunch. For more information, visit mg.aces.edu/ Tuscaloosa.

Judith Rives is a Tuscaloosa County Master Gardener. Follow her on Twitter at @jjarives.

October

Calendar of Events presented by — Tuscaloosa Barnyard Pumpkin Patch: Fridays and Saturdays in October, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sundays 1-5 p.m. Turner Bridge Rd, Tuscaloosa. Includes hayrides, a petting zoo, a jumping pillow, and more. $15 per person. For more info call (205) 248-0773, (205) 454-8841 or visit tuscaloosabarnyard.com.

Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch: Every weekend in Oct. Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday 12-6 p.m. Near Mercedes on Griffin Road, West Blocton. $10 admission ages 2 and older. Attractions include pumpkin picking, hayrides, a petting zoo, pony rides, a corn maze and a zip line. For more information, call (205) 535-0552 or visit griffinfarmsal.com.

Moundville Native American Festival: Oct. 7-10, Moundville Archaeological Park. Performers, artists, craftspeople and tradition bearers are on hand to educate festival-goers about the rich culture and heritage that makes Southeastern Indians unique.

Includes living historians, arts and crafts arbors and children’s area. For more information, visit Moundville.ua.edu.

Sundown Lecture Series: Oct. 8, 5:15-6:30 p.m.

Jemison Van de Graaff Mansion, downtown Tuscaloosa. The Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society presents the Preservation Antique Road Show. Local experts will be on hand to evaluate antiques. This event is free to TCPS members; $5 for non-members.

For more information, visit www.HistoricTuscaloosa.org or call (205) 758-2238.

Luke Bryan Farm Tour 2015: Oct. 8, 7 p.m.

Twin Creeks Farm, 7710 Old Tuscaloosa Highway, McCalla. General admission tickets: $47 ($52 on day of show). For more information, visit lukebryan.com.

Northport Citizen of the Year Dinner: Oct. 8, 7-8:30 p.m. Five Points Baptist Church, Northport.

For 40 years, the Northport Citizen of the Year Awards program has celebrated outstanding leadership in the city. For reservations, contact Stacey Gann at stacey@tuscaloosachamber.com or call (205) 391-0559.

Alabama: Oct. 9, 8 p.m. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Ticket prices: $75, $59.50. Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit Ticketmaster.com, call the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater Box Office at (205) 248-5280 or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

DCH Foundation Play Pink - A Day on the Courts Ladies Tennis Event: Oct. 13, Indian Hills Tennis Facility, Tuscaloosa. To register, visit thedchfoundation.org.

Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre: Oct 13-15, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 16, 5:30 p.m. Morgan Auditorium, University of Alabama. The ARDT showcases the choreography of talented faculty and guests artists, offering a mix of traditional and innovative dance techniques. Tickets may be purchased from the box office in Rowand-Johnson Hall, online at tix.ua.edu or by phone at (205) 348-3400.

Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: Oct. 15, 3 p.m. Government Park Plaza, downtown Tuscaloosa (inclement weather location: First Baptist Church). Four citizens who have contributed to the betterment of the Tuscaloosa County community will be inducted. For more information, call (205) 391-0556.

DCH Foundation Play Pink - A Nite on the Green: Oct. 15, Indian Hills Country Club. For tickets, call (205) 759-7349 or thedchfoundation.org.

Jason Isbell with Sturgill Simpson and Brandy Clark: Oct 15, 7 p.m. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.

Ticket prices: $65.50, $38.50, $28.50 and $21.

Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit Ticketmaster.com, call the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater Box Office at (205) 248-5280 or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

The DCH Foundation Golf Classic: Oct. 16, Indian Hills Country Club. To register, call (205) 759-7349 or visit thedchfoundation.org.

Casting Crowns: Oct. 16, 7 p.m. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Ticket prices: $55, $24.Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit Ticketmaster.com, call the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater Box Office at (205) 248-5280 or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

Making Strides in Tuscaloosa Breast Cancer Walk: Oct. 17, 9 a.m. (registration 7:30 a.m.), Government Plaza, downtown Tuscaloosa. For more information, visit makingstrideswalk.org/tuscaloosaal or email TuscaloosaALStrides@cancer.org.

44th Annual Kentuck Festival of the Arts: Oct. 17-18, Kentuck Park, Northport. Hundreds of artists will exhibit works, along with demonstrations, music, food, and more. Free shuttles provide transportation to the park from downtown Northport. Single daily tickets: $10; weekend passes: $15. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. For additional information visit kentuck.org.

Tuscaloosa Comedy Cafe: Oct. 20, 6:45-8:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.) Bryant Conference

Center, Tuscaloosa. This evening of fun features the humor of Taylor Mason and the teenagers of Tuscaloosa Youth for Christ. All proceeds benefit the work of YFC in the community. Tickets: $50. For reservations, call (205) 752-3361 or visit ttowncomedycafe. org.

West Alabama State Fair: Oct. 22-31, Sokol Park, Tuscaloosa. This annual event features rides galore, a petting zoo and a rodeo. Regular admission: $5. Parking: Donations only. For more information, including hours, event schedules and armband prices, visit westalabamastatefair.com Junior League of Tuscaloosa T-Town Shop Around: Oct. 22-Nov. 9. This annual fundraiser features some of Tuscaloosa’s finest retailers and restaurants. A $20 card entitles people to a 20 percent discount at partner retailers. For more information, visit jltuscaloosa.org.

Halloween Spooktacular and Monster Mash Ball: Oct. 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa (C.H.O.M.), downtown Tuscaloosa. Your costume is your admission. Tickets available to play carnival games for prizes. All ages with adult. For more information: (205) 349-4235 and chomonline.org.

Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents To Kill a Mockingbird: Oct. 23-Nov. 1, Bean-Brown Theatre, Tuscaloosa. This stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel is the familiar tale of Scout, Jem, Atticus and Boo Radley. To purchase tickets, visit theatretusc.com or call the Theatre Tuscaloosa Box Office at (205) 391-2277.

Monster Makeover Art Auction & Festival: Oct. 27, 6-9 p.m. Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum, Tuscaloosa. More than 50 professional artists recreate 52 kids’ monster drawings from the Alberta School of Performing Arts. A Trunk or Treat is also planned. For more information, facebook. com/events/420763601443474.

Pink Box Burlesque Presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Oct. 31, 8-11 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. For more information, including ticket info, visit pinkboxburlesque.com.

5th Street Vintage Market: Nov. 1, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 4150 5th Street, Northport. The Vintage Market is a great place to find unusual and unique treasures, from vintage books, clothes, and jewelry to handmade items, vinyl records, and more. For more information, visit www.5thstreetvintagemarket.com.

22 FOOD

October 2015

OCTOBER RECIPES

Tasty Treats for Halloween Parties

Pumpkin Torte Cake

Recipes and Photos by Amy Poore

• 1 package yellow cake mix (regular size) • 1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin, divided • 1/2 cup milk • 4 large eggs • 1/3 cup canola oil • 1.5 teaspoons pumpkin spice, divided • 1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened • 1 cup confectioner’s sugar • 1 (16 oz.) tub of cool whip, thawed • 1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping • 1/3 cup pecans, toasted

Halloween treats are a must if you’re planning on attending any gatherings in coming weeks. I thought I’d offer up a couple of different options, including a healthier option, a Candy Corn Treat that’s oh-so-simple to make and really cute. But really, this Pumpkin Torte Cake will be the crown jewel of your Halloween party.

It’s rich, sweet, elegant and festive.

Enjoy your spooky holiday and bon appétit!

Amy Poore is a new mom, a wife and a foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, www.pooreamy.com

Healthy Candy Corn Fruit Treat • Mandarin oranges, drained • Pineapple chunks, drained • Whipped cream • Candy Corn candies

In a clear glass of your choice layer pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges.

Top with whipped cream and garnish with a candy corn. Enjoy!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, 1 cup pumpkin, milk, eggs, oil and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice.

Beat on a low speed for 30 seconds.

Then increase speed to medium for 2 minutes more.

Pour into two greased and floured 8-in. round baking pans. You could also use the Pam baking spray.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Let cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and place on baking racks to finishing cooling completely.

Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until light and fluffy.

Slowly add the confectioner’s sugar, remaining pumpkin and remaining pumpkin spice. Continue to beat until smooth.

Next, fold in whipped topping.

Evenly cut cakes horizontally so you have four layers. Place bottom layer on serving plate, top and evenly spread with 1/4 of the filling. Repeat the layers three more times.

Finally, drizzle with caramel topping and sprinkle with pecans.

Keep stored in the refrigerator.

Local lenders providing service above and beyond the loan.

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Matt Meissner Branch Manager NMLS# 262525

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205-409-7835

Interlinc Mortgage Services,LLC

1635 McFarland Blvd.N, Suite 503 Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Interlinc Mortgage Services, LLC Alabama Consumer Credit license #:21702 NMLS ID: 205696. Interlinc Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender. Disclaimer:.

This is not a commitment to lend. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Other restrictions may apply. Programs,rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

October 2015

TASTE OF TUSCALOOSA

FOOD 23

The Fresh Market: More Than a Shopping Experience Anyone who’s driven through Tuscaloosa has likely noticed the major construction that’s happened in our city over the summer. All the construction means a lot of new shopping options in Tuscaloosa, including a premier shopping experience for the foodies in town. Now open for almost two months, The Fresh Market in The Shoppes at Legacy Park on McFarland Boulevard has been tantalizing Tuscaloosans with its European style market and vast selection of specialty foods.

With a tagline that exclaims, “Experience the Food,” Tuscaloosa shoppers can expect to use a combination of their five senses when visiting Fresh Market. The delightful smells that greet patrons as they walk in the door capture attention: fresh flowers, freshly brewed coffee, cinnamon-scented pinecones to note a few. Samples galore offer shoppers a chance to taste all the prepared foods in the massive deli section. The gelato bar, the only one of its kind in a local grocery, offers samples of everything from salted caramel to pistachio. Temptations abound.

Caleb Torbit, Assistant Manager at The Fresh Market, says that customers can expect a unique experience compared to other groceries. “Our European style market is completely different from other stores in town,” Torbit said.

The Fresh Market is, at once, massive and intimate, playing on the European market feel. It’s huge, but not at all overwhelming. Customers can sample from the store’s vast selection of cheeses from all over the world. Chances are high that new favorites are found on a daily basis.

For those whose taste buds lean to the sweet side, the extensive candy department at The Fresh Market offers shoppers varying sizes of candy concoctions, including self-select bulk items.

Many may agree, however, that one of the biggest perks to Tuscaloosa’s newest grocery store is the prepared foods ready for takeout to feed the masses at home. From fresh roasted chickens to dishes that include such items as kale, orzo and fresh cheeses, the options are seemingly endless. An impressive salad and olive bar also extend the options for a nice healthy lunch to bring back to the office.

by Sheena Gregg

Not only does The Fresh Market aim to bring the old world charm back to grocery stores, it also aims to make a difference in the community with local community partnerships and national charitable partnerships like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, raising over $4 million dollars for the foundation since the grocery chain’s inception several years ago.

Whether you’re at The Fresh Market for specialty coffee, health products, sustainable seafood or more, you are truly in for a treat as you visit Tuscaloosa’s newest food shopping experience.

Above: The Fresh Market’s olive bar offers a variety of healthy and tasty treats.

Below: The Fresh Market opened in August as part of Tuscaloosa’s newest shopping center at the corner of McFarland and 15th Street. Photos: Sheena Gregg