February 2016 - Volume 3, Issue 2
Sharing the Road Is Uber Coming
Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper
Back to Tuscaloosa? By Tori Linville
What Do Kids Love About Valentine’s Day? Find Out on PAGE 20
After two years of uncertainty and negotiations, Tuscaloosa could soon reintroduce Uber into the community. The ride-sharing service Uber left Tuscaloosa after a driver was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and given multiple other citations. The 21-year-old driver also had an open vodka bottle in the car. Uber would not share background checks with the Tuscaloosa Police Department, and it did not have a business license at the time. The ride sharing service said the app is “as easy as sign up and drive,” according to its website. City Councilman Kip Tyner said he doesn’t believe Uber should
Continued on Page 11
Pizza Perfection in Downtown T-town Complete Review on Page 23
Inside This Issue About Us City News Opinion Community Business Schools Sports Calendar Food
2 4 6 10 DruidCityLiving 14 18 20 21 @DruidCityLiving 22
Presorted Standard US Postage Paid Tuscaloosa, AL Permit No. 116
facebook.com/DruidCityLiving
Uber is an app-based ride sharing service. Photo: Christopher Edmunds
Coaching Legend Buddy Sumner Honored at American Christian Academy By Stan J. Griffin It may be nearly impossible to fully measure the impact that legendary 77-year-old Tuscaloosa native Buddy Sumner has had on the lives of many over the course of several decades in his distinguished tenure as a coach, administrator and mentor. Some evidence of that impact, however, could be observed recently at American Christian Academy, where Sumner was honored for 50 years of coaching with a gathering that brought together a host of former students, colleagues, family members and friends for a few laughs, a few hugs and even a few good stories. He also received a beautiful plaque during the festivities. Sumner, who continues to coach the ACA girls’ basketball team, where he has captured a pair of area titles
Continued on Page 11
Photo: Stan J. Griffin
2 ABOUT
February 2016
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
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 Amber Bara (440) 413-6774 amberbara@gmail.com
Before making your Valentine’s Day plans, check out The American Heart Association’s Heart Walk. Activities kick off on Saturday, Feb. 13 at 8 a.m. The Heart Walk follows at 9 a.m. at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. There are no fees to enter the walk and participants are eligible to receive a Heart Walk T-shirt after raising $100. Participants who raise funding for the AHA are also eligible for a variety of prizes. Visit westalheartwalk. kinter.org for more information. Photo: Heidi Darbo
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
February 2016
Mayor’s Minute – February 2016 Excellence, while often strived for, is difficult to achieve. With that being said, the City has committed itself to a new standard of excellence – to be the most innovative and effectively-managed city in the United States of America. Three crucial elements of an innovative and effectively-managed city include a dedicated team, integrated technology and integrated organization. These corresponding elements are connected and interdependent. We cannot enhance one element without the strength of the others. In recent months, the City has initiated the first steps in breaking down the silos of government by moving forward with a restructuring plan that eliminates several City departments and reorganizes others that are in alignment with two primary lines of business: Urban Development; and Infrastructure and Public Services. In the months ahead, the restructuring will be driven by our standard of excellence and determined by data-driven decision-making. Coming out of the shadows of April 27, 2011, and the Great Recession, I am absolutely thrilled that we are in the process of creating a sustainable culture of results-oriented government. By doing this, we can vastly improve our infrastructure project management, capital and vehicle investments, delivery of services and stewardship of the taxpayer’s money. As I am often reminded, restructuring of City government is not a “sexy” political issue; however, transforming our administrative apparatus to meet the digital revolution is paramount if we are going to be the most innovative and effectively-managed city in the United States. Sincerely, Walter Maddox
6 OPINION Give Life to Your Story: An Invitation This month, I want to take a small departure from the normal column that I and our other Youth For Christ (YFC) staff write in regards to parenting teens. But parents, please don’t bail out on me. I think what I want to share will be valuable to you. In recent years, it has been said about YFC that “teenagers are our business.” This catchphrase has caught on because it emphasizes that organizationally, we care and are constantly consumed with the well-being of the middle school and high school youth that call Tuscaloosa County home. More specifically, our Campus Life and Teen Moms programs endeavor to give teens a safe place to wrestle
with the most important topics of life. Things like, “Where did we come from?” “Why are we here?” “Is there a God?” And, “Who is Jesus, really?” Each day of the week all around Tuscaloosa, at fast food restaurants and coffee shops, YFC leaders meet with teens in large groups, small groups and one on one. In these settings, our leaders ask questions, listen intently and guide young people towards the wisdom and truth that we have found. Who are “our youth” you may wonder? Because of our name, many assume that most of our programs are populated with committed Christian teens. Actually, the exact opposite is true. Most of the young people involved in our “clubs” have little or no church background. Many come from families of other faith backgrounds. Some are angry towards God and just plain “don’t like Christians.” What we have also found to be true for the vast majority is that they are eager to find someone they can talk to about the weightier issues of life. But sadly, they can’t find someone who is willing to talk. They have mostly been met with those who want to argue them into submission. Often, students find exactly what they have been
February 2016 by Mike Green
looking for in YFC leaders. If you are one of our many Campus Life alumni, I hope my writing has brought back memories of your experiences with us in your high school years. If you have not been in contact with us in recent years we sure would love to hear from you. Drop by our offices or send me an email. For those who are parents of high schoolers, I want to offer an invitation to you and your teen. If your family is not part of a local church, your teen
is welcome at Campus Life. If your son or daughter has questions about the issues we discuss and has no safe place to find answers, I think they will feel welcome at one of our clubs. They will find a place to question, doubt and even challenge what they hear. And in every setting, they will find love and acceptance. Thank you for giving me a few minutes to share what we are so passionate about. If you need to reach me, please email me at mike@tuscaloosayfc.com.
Mike and Laura Green
OPINION 7
February 2016
The Land of Oz: Proactive and Reactive
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.” Typically, I use this column to discuss incredibly important topics and share pertinent information as it relates to our country and our community (editor attempts to find sarcasm font). Admittedly, “LoO” is not a very serious column. It will never be cited in the Journal of the American Medical Association or peer-reviewed for inclusion in a professionally bound compilation. It’s just not my game. But for this month’s contribution, the urge has hit to compose a more serious piece as it relates to Tuscaloosa and the expanding drug issues that have gripped our society. There is a reason for our mission at PRIDE (Parents Resource Institute for Drug Education) of Tuscaloosa. There is a reason why many in our community have taken notice of what we are trying to accomplish. And there is a reason why we should be more proactive than reactive when it comes to substance abuse. Think about it: In almost every other facet of society we have taken some type of proactive measure in order to avoid negative outcomes. This includes eating healthy, exercising regularly, having immunizations to avoid illness, etc. Is there any reason we shouldn’t follow suit when it comes to substance abuse prevention? The common theme throughout the history of drug abuse is to treat those that need treatment. While logically this makes perfect sense, consider this: Statistically, are over1 25 million Bradford Lipstick Halfthere Pg Ad_Layout 12/4/14 2:43Americans PM Page 1 currently addicted to drugs and/or alcohol. About 1 in 10 receive the treatment needed, which leaves well
over 20 million without treatment. In our field, this is referred to as the treatment gap. And there is information suggesting that the situation is worse than reported. The fact is that getting treatment to those who need it can be an uphill battle due to a variety of factors including available space, inadequate insurance, and most frequently, cost. The expense can be enormous, both to families involved and to you, the taxpayer, since most treatment programs are paid for by federal, state and local governments (including Medicaid and Medicare). Preventing the onset of addiction is considerably cheaper. One study suggests that for every dollar spent on prevention, it saves the people and the community approximately $5. Even another study suggests it saves as much as $7. And this info does come from peer-reviewed articles. One thing is certain: Drug abuse is rising, whether it is from prescription pill abuse or heroin or marijuana or synthetics or thousands of others substances. Drug availability is worse than it has ever been, compliments of the internet. And the true number of those needing help is becoming more difficult to substantiate. We can’t save the world from addictions, but we can help some to avoid it. And proactive is always better than reactive. 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
February 2016
Love, Lake Living by Allison Adams Love, perfect love Is meant to flow freely from our hearts, A meandering stream of compassion, admiration, kindness, respect. True love, infinite love knows no boundaries. It works its way through earth, wood, stone. It builds on a current of trust, respect, perseverance. It dodges boulders. Deep rooted love flows with vigor, to points unseen. It lands somewhere in a valley of peace, where all waters gather, basking in the stillness of infinite love, content in the journey. Until its rain falls on those below just beginning to discover the spirit of love that is within us all. Let us all let the lake (and any water) remind us to stop and embrace the journey that is life. Blessings from Lake Tuscaloosa, Allison *Dedicated to my friends Anna, James, Adrienne and Kim who await me in the stillness and peace, their brief journey complete. Photo: Allison Adams
February 2016
The Mommy Chronicles: Breaking the Habit Sometimes, our children are labeled with titles as they develop unforeseen habits that make even the best of us moms cringe: “Defiant.” “Biter.” “Whiner.” As a toddler mom, I have watched my son’s cries evolve from the “I’m really aggravated” cry to the “I’m crying although there are no tears” cry to the “I have my mouth open to make noise, but I really just want to see if you’re going to do what I want” cry. I have also gone through a terrible biting phase and an annoying (but thankfully) very brief “no” phase. How do we control these things? By knowing that we cannot control everything, and understanding that each of our babies is different. We can change their habits by taking a look at how we interact with them, and by paying even more attention to their surroundings. Saying “No” The bottom line is this: There comes a point in your toddler’s life when he or she realizes that they have a will of their own. Why do they say “no”? It’s simple: They can, so they will. This phase with my toddler was brief. As common practice, when we asked him to do something and got a big, fat “no,” we spun his newfound will into what he thought was a choice, or, at the very least, the appearance of other options. Instead of saying “Beaux, pick up your toys,” we began to say, “Beaux, do you want to pick up your toys first and then eat dinner? Or, do you want to eat dinner first and then pick up your toys?” More than likely your child will choose one thing, and when that task is complete, it is super easy to transition into the next thing (which you’ve already mentioned). Biting/Fighting/Hitting No parent likes to see their little one bite or hit another child. My personal response has always been, “I need to alleviate this problem because I
OPINION 9 by Marlena Rice
would not want my child bit or hit, etc.” When our have their way, things may work more in their favor son started biting it came as a shock to us, as it if they help keep their rooms clean, or are just good only happened in his schooling environment. I was little people in general. perplexed. He attended church with a good-sized Marlena Rice is a local mom and author. Her group of children each week, played with our new book, “Pacifiers, Flatbeds and Barn Wood neighbors’ children and we never had an issue. Each Thingamajigs, a ‘Come to Jesus Guide’ for the child’s case is different. Some children bite because New, Southern Mom,” will be available on Amathey are not able to express their feelings, and it zon.com soon. Follow Marlena on Instagram at comes out in the form of biting, whether it’s due to marlena_rice. frustration, fear, overexcitement, under-stimulation, or even out of defense. As a mother who has experienced this recently, I advise paying close attention to situations that provoke the biting. I recommend these approaches: 1. Explain in a firm matter that biting hurts and is not a nice thing to do. 2. Order a time-out. 3. Take something away that your child will notice, like a favorite television show, toy truck or time playing outside. 4. Ensure that the environment your child is in is the right one for them. My personal experience caused me to change my son’s schooling environment, and this has alleviated his problem. Excessive Crying/Whining Yes, babies will cry, but sometimes, our little people go overboard as they get older, thinking that crying and whining is the way to get their way. Make sure you stand your ground and say “no” when you mean it. It’s important that your child does not see you change your mind after they had a whining/crying episode. Also, teach Beaux William taking a candy break. When your children surprise you and act like big helpers, an occasional reward is a great way to end the activity. the little ones the art of compromise. Teach them that while they cannot always Photo: Marlena Rice
10 COMMUNITY
Tales of
February 2016
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
Unidentified Flying Objects: February 1, 1954
The balloon looked like a gigantic limp laundry bag upon release. Drifting east from a launch site in Texas, it soon climbed to the edge of space—an altitude of nearly 19 miles, or about 100,000 feet. Due to the low atmospheric pressure, the balloon swelled to a near spherical shape while instruments tethered below measured cosmic rays. What began as a routine scientific mission became
a mysterious incident that remains unexplained since that Monday, February 1, 1954, in the sky southwest of Tuscaloosa. A Naval Research aircraft carrying observers followed the mission from below. Suddenly, they saw six bright white objects flying around and above the balloon. After about five minutes, the objects ascended vertically until they disappeared. This account was
noted in the files of Project Blue Book, a United States Air Force study of unidentified flying objects or UFOs. For as long as humans have watched the sky, they have seen things beyond their experience or prevailing knowledge. The lore of many ancient cultures includes unexplainable aerial phenomena. One of the earliest was detailed in the sixth century BC by the Hebrew Prophet Ezekiel. Although it was said to be part of a vision, some interpret Ezekiel’s description of creatures and wheels being lifted up from the earth as a UFO sighting. The Oxford English Dictionary states that the term “unidentified flying object” and its acronym “UFO” came into use in the early 1950s as a more general term in reference to what had earlier been called “flying saucers.” During World War II, massive numbers of pilots and airmen served on both sides. Many reported seeing mysterious aerial phenomena both in Europe and the Pacific. The general term “foo fighters” came into use to describe UFOs seen during that period. Fearing enemy secret weapons, the military investigated these sightings but they remained unexplained. After the war, UFO sightings became almost commonplace. In May and December of 1958, the files of Project Blue Book listed sightings of bright objects in the Tuscaloosa area. The Air Force dismissed both as
meteors. Later, local reports included nocturnal lights in 1974, a flying disc in 1977 and, in 1978, a glowing metallic object with rotating colored lights was observed, along with a burst of static radio interference. Since the 1950s, scores of science fiction movies and television shows involving UFOs have been released. They range from major Hollywood productions such as The Day the Earth Stood Still and Close Encounters of the Third Kind to low-budget cult classics such as Devil Girl from Mars and Plan 9 from Outer Space. In 1968, the Air Force concluded that after reviewing over 12,000 reports, there was no evidence that UFOs were a threat to national security or that they were of extraterrestrial origin. Furthermore, virtually all UFO sightings could be explained as natural phenomena such as particularly bright meteors, the planet Venus, clouds, refracted light, or flocks of birds. Some of the reports were deemed to be sightings of previously undisclosed secret aircraft such as the U-2 or SR-71. But a few sightings, including the glowing lights surrounding the research balloon near Tuscaloosa in 1954, could not be explained. If you have a comment or question for local historian and author Jim Ezell, you can email him at Ezell0071@comcast.net.
An artist’s concept of UFOs seen by Naval Research personnel near a high altitude balloon southwest of Tuscaloosa. At such high altitudes the sky appears black even in daytime. Photo: Jim Ezell
COMMUNITY 11
February 2016
UBER
continued from page 1
be able to do business in Tuscaloosa until the service abides by the same requirements the city demands of other ride services. “When they negotiated with us, we felt like they [Uber] weren’t negotiating with us in good faith. They were refusing to play by the same rules that other vehicles-for-hire do, which is background checks, regular car inspections, having cars positively identified [as an Uber car], and having individual business licenses,” Tyner said. Tyner said he knows Tuscaloosa’s taxi services are not efficient, but he is still concerned for public safety. “We stopped people randomly and arrested three people. Anyone can get an app and claim to be an Uber driver,” he said. “I understand that the wait for a taxi can be 20 to 40 minutes, which can be dangerous. I’m not denying we have a problem, but I don’t want to introduce another problem.” City Councilman Matt Calderone said the Uber negotiations now have a different tone and the conversation with the ride-sharing service is ongoing. The company is now under new management and is willing to cooperate with Tuscaloosa in order to renew business. “It’s a night and day difference. They refused to pay any type of business license and we couldn’t come to an agreement on insurance, but now they have adequate insurance to protect our citizens and are giving us access to their background checks,” Calderone said. The city council has been working on a transportation network company (TNC) ordinance and once it’s ready, the council plans to
vote. The city is reevaluating the laws in place to allow systems like Uber to operate, and plans to evaluate how well the service has worked after a period of time, he said. “I’m hoping the council will support transportation that will serve those who need it,” Calderone said. “We just had some recent meetings that went really well, and it’ll just come down to a vote. The goal is to vote within the next 30 days.” Jonathan Hess, the University’s SGA vice president of external affairs, began an online petition to bring a voice to the University students who live in Tuscaloosa. “Roll Uber” was created as a way to back Tuscaloosa’s city council. “The goal was, ‘this is something we knew students cared about,’ and it is a great opportunity to learn about what’s going on in the Tuscaloosa community,” Hess said. “It’s an opportunity to voice opinion, and each signature is a voice supporting the city council.” University of Alabama SGA President Elliot Spillers said the ride sharing service has several benefits for students. He said use of Uber app could possibility help to cut down on drunk driving, provide employment opportunities and move Tuscaloosa forward. “I think that there are a lot pros with Uber. It’s a safe ride service that provides assistance for students with a late-night option when they’re unable to drive themselves home,” Spillers said. “There really isn’t anything else out there. We’ve done surveys with The Crimson White and 80 percent, or a couple 1,000 students, say they want Uber on campus.”
Annual Exchange Club Chili Cookoff set for Feb. 13 By Tori Linville A heat wave will hit Tuscaloosa on Saturday, Feb. 13 at the Bryant Conference Center in the form of The Exchange Club’s Great Chili Cookoff. Children’s activities, live entertainment and free food are all available to those who decide to volunteer their taste buds. The Exchange Club focuses on community support, youth development, honoring America and child abuse prevention. Glen Smith, treasurer of The Exchange Club and chairman of the Chili Cookoff, said the event is great fun with great chili – all for a great cause. “The live music will include Angela Hamiter and the Able Brothers, and soloist Robert Morgan on guitar and vocals,” Smith said. “There will be 30 plus varieties of chili to sample, children’s activities, free ice cream and cheese biscuits. There will be a drawing for valuable prizes such as an HDTV, Alabama football and basketball tickets, gift certificates, etc.” Cookoff teams so far include names such as the Chili Chompers, Chiliheads and Ring of Fire. More than 50 companies are represented in the cookoff, along with a firefighting organization. “The Exchange Club Foundation, which is a co-sponsor of the Chili Cookoff, awards community grants semi-annually to charitable non-profits,” he said. “The annual value of the grants is $15,000. Recently, foundation community grants were awarded to the Tuscaloosa Children’s Center, the March of Dimes Alabama Chapter and the West Alabama Food Bank.” Tickets are $10, and children six years old or younger are admitted for free. Tickets can be found in advance at Bank of Tuscaloosa on Jack Warner Parkway or at Edward Jones Investments on 21st Ave.
14 BUSINESS
February 2016
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BUSINESS 15
Febrauary 2016
Now Open Fast Tax, 1930 15th Ave., celebrated its grand opening in Tuscaloosa in January. Fast Tax 1 specializes in personal, self-employment and small business tax preparation and returns. (205) 331-4761 Amy Corbin’s State Farm Insurance office is now open at 2600 6th Street in downtown 2 Tuscaloosa. Corbin celebrated a grand opening in January. (205) 330-0905 Miss Dots restaurant, 1715 University Blvd., opened its Tuscaloosa location in January. 3 This Southern-themed, fast-casual restaurant is co-owned by former Tide football player John Cassimus and Tyre Stuckey. This is the second Miss Dots in Alabama; the opened in Mountain Brook in January 2015. (205) 632-5321, lovemissdots.com Nothing but Noodles is now open in The Shoppes at Legacy Park. The fast-casual restaurant, 4 which features made-to-order noodle and global pasta dishes, celebrated its grand opening in late-December. This is the first Nothing but Noodles location in Tuscaloosa, and the fourth in Alabama. (205) 349-2900, nothingbutnoodles.com
Tuscaloosa’s newest pizza restaurant, Post
5 Office Pies, is now open at 1920 Sixth Street
downtown (behind Innisfree Irish Pub). This is Post Office Pies’ second location in Alabama (the original is in Birmingham). (205) 632-5300, postofficepies.com
News and Accomplishments Easter Seals West Alabama dedicated the site of its new 56,000-square-foot facility on James Harrison Jr. Parkway on Jan. 22. A capital campaign to complete funding is planned. (205) 759-1211, eswaweb.org. Tuscaloosa Hyundai broke ground on its new dealership on January 6. The facility, located on Skyland Boulevard (at the intersection of Hargrove Road East), will be the first new Hyundai image store built in the U.S. (205) 7528113, tuscaloosahyundai.com The Kentuck Art Center, 503 Main Ave. in Northport, celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated building on Feb. 4. The project involved a complete renovation of the two-story, nearly 100-year-old Kentuck Museum Building. (205) 758-1257, kentuck.org
The Tuscaloosa Association of Realtors (TAR) recognized Jack Ryan in December with its Good Neighbor Award at a luncheon held in December. For the last two years, Ryan has been actively involved in the TAR Community Projects Committee and the Public Relations Committee. He has also served as Bark in the Park chairman for the event’s first two years. Dr. Robert Witt will serve as the United Way of West Alabama’s (UWWA) 2016 campaign chairman. In this volunteer leadership role, Dr. Witt will join with the campaign cabinet and a broad network of United Way supporters in fund-raising efforts to meet the 2016 campaign goal that will provide crucial financial support to United Way’s 26 partner agencies in West Alabama.
Anniversaries The Avenue Pub, 405 23rd Ave., celebrated its two-year anniversary on Jan. 13. The restaurant features a unique but casual dining experience, including fresh food and beverages, Alabama beers and local entertainment. (205) 7594900, Avepub.com
16 COMMUNITY
January 2016
Krispy Kreme Challenge to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama 2400 Calories, 12 Doughnuts, 2 Miles, 1 Hour By Tori Linville
“To eat or not to eat” is the question that will be on the minds of more than 500 participants on Saturday, Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. Tuscaloosa’s Krispy Kreme Challenge will test the wills and “gastrointestinal fortitude” of those who choose to run the two mile charity race, according to the event’s website. The race begins at Tuscaloosa’s Government Plaza on 6th Street and loops around downtown for a total of two miles. Participants are considered either challengers or casual runners. The difference? The challenger runs one mile, eats a dozen Krispy Kreme doughnuts, and continues the race. The casual runner eats as many
as he/she likes, and doesn’t put their stomach to the test. Challengers are considered for cash prizes up to $400. The amount of doughnuts to eat is directly related to the runner, said Fran Powe, development director with Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama. “If you’re an individual challenger you get 12 doughnuts, and if you’re on a team, you get to eat 24 doughnuts. Of course you don’t have to, and lots of people walk and then just watch and get a kick out of the others who eat the doughnuts,” she said. “Children get to eat a cup of doughnut holes and those who don’t eat doughnuts can still win for most creative team or costumes.”
Photo: Fran Powe
The first Krispy Kreme Challenge happened where the first Krispy Kreme establishment was built in North Carolina to help raise funds for the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization of that area. The challenge has expanded to Krispy Kreme locations across the country. “The Krispy Kreme Challenge is one of the largest fundraisers we receive. We have over 100 children who are matched with adult mentors,
but have around 50 without mentors,” Powe said. “It [the challenge] ultimately makes it possible for more children [to participate] in our program, and it’s proven that if you have someone who cares for you, you ultimately care about yourself, so it definitely matters.” Teams for the challenge must have at least four members, and early registration is recommended. Check out tuscaloosakkc.com for more.
18 SCHOOLS
February 2016
DCL’s Teacher of the Month By Courtney Corbridge
At Tuscaloosa’s Holy Spirit Catholic High School, Jonathan Loper teaches advanced English, creative writing, language and theology. It’s a lot to cover, but that’s one of the things he enjoys. “We can get to know the kids in their entirety,” he said. “There’s so much more to us as humans than just our brain; we have the spiritual part too.” After earning his Master’s degree in English, Loper, a parishioner of the Holy Spirit Church, decided that he wanted to teach. He had had experience teaching undergraduates as a part of his Master’s program, and he seriously enjoyed it, so he went to the principal of Holy Spirit and asked if there were any available positions. It was only once he was hired that he actually went to get teaching certificate, but now he is working on a catholic leadership degree because he enjoys curriculum development so much. In Loper’s English classes, his favorite works to teach are “The Great Gatsby” and “The Crucible.” And since he likes to cross genres, he also lets the kids compare the books to their movie counterparts. But the perhaps the highlight each year, for Loper, is the annual sophomore trip to Washington D.C. There the students take what he calls a pilgrimage to
the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. It is an opportunity for Loper to show the students images of the stories they read in their scriptures. But the week does more than just give the students educational and religious experiences, it also allows them to socialize. Some of the kids have been going to school together since kindergarten. Their classes are small, and Loper marvels that by sophomore year they can still be getting to know each other better. The trip, he says, provides such an opportunity: “It transforms those kids.” The students get to interact more closely together, and, once again, he gets to see another side to their lives in addition to education. Though he has many tasks each year he says he won’t give up the Washington trip. Loper also coaches the Poetry Out Loud team at his school. This year one of his students has advanced to the state level and last year one of his students actually won the state title and competed at nationals in Washington D.C. In his free time, Loper spends time with his wife and three children. He enjoys hiking, running, camping, writing poetry (which he shares in his creative writing classes) and playing the guitar. Congratulations, Mr. Loper!
Jonathan Loper teaches advanced English, creative writing, language and theology at Tuscaloosa’s Holy Spirit Catholic High School. He also coaches Holy Spirit’s Poetry Out Loud Team, which has seen students compete at the state and national levels. Photo: Courtney Corbridge
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SCHOOLS 19
February 2016
Why Tuscaloosa’s Youngsters Love Valentine’s Day By Alicia Jenne’
Jackson
Lauryn
Cupid’s arrows, lace and heartsGlittery red and pink love bugs, We asked some little sweethearts, What is it about Valentine’s Day that you love? On Cover: Riley-“I love it because I get to spend time with my family and I love them!” Alicia Jenne’ is a Nationally Board Certified Kindergarten teacher at Rock Quarry Elementary School and a regular Druid City Living contributor. Photos: Alicia Jenne’
Zaydix
Sutter
“I love giving things to different people.”
“I get to bring Valentine cards and I love caring about all of my friends.”
Sophie
David Scott
“I love it because my mommy’s birthday is in February.”
“I love it because you give chocolates and it is close to my birthday.”
“I love getting all that candy!”
“I love when you get heart shaped candy.”
Ava Kate
Aleah
“I love red hearts and making cards.”
Christian
“I love it when your friends give you candy and stuff.”
“I love it because Valentine’s Day means love.”
Libby
“I love it because my birthday is close to Valentine’s Day!”
20 SPORTS COACHING
February 2016
continued from page 1
with the Lady Patriots, said the tribute was very special. “I was shocked and surprised, and glad to see everyone,” he said. “I did not have enough time to visit with everyone as much as I would have liked to, but it was a very, very good night for me. I appreciated it.” Asked what that magic number of “50” means to him in terms of his long legacy relative to coaching and teaching, Sumner said he mainly feels very fortunate. “I feel blessed,” he said. “I feel God has blessed me with the health, and I enjoy doing it, and I get a lot of benefits out of it with friendships, and I just get to meet a lot of good people.” Sumner began coaching at Tuscaloosa Junior High School and the former Tuscaloosa High School, and then went to the former West End Christian School, where he served as headmaster and coach for the Crusaders for 17 years, before moving on to Wilcox Academy, where he stayed for 23 years. Ultimately, he returned to Tuscaloosa to serve as a coach at American Christian Academy, where he has been the last several years. During his five decades as a coach, he has guided or helped to lead various teams in football, track, basketball and softball, capturing 16 state titles in the process. Although some senior adults might prefer spending time relaxing on a beach somewhere or traveling, Sumner, also an avid golfer, said he enjoys staying active, especially when it comes to being around sports and the young people he gets to interact with. “I just enjoy (the coaching) and I’ve had a lot of nice girls and a lot of great girls,” he said, adding that he has also enjoyed coaching his own kids and
Buddy Sumner (shown here with his granddaughter, Hannah English, and daughter, Beth Sumner English) was recently honored for his decades of coaching. Photo: Stan J. Griffin
his granddaughters as well. “I am leaving it up to the good Lord (in terms of how much longer he is able to stay involved with coaching). I try not to think about that until the season is over with and I get away from it a little bit. I try to treat all the kids the same way as I would treat my kids and of course I coached my two daughters. I try to be fair to them and I probably overdo it sometimes. They are not the same and every kid is different and I try to show them respect if they do the same to me. It’s amazing, but it really was not (difficult coaching his own children). In softball, I had to cut one of my daughters one year, and a lot of people got upset with me, and she agreed with me, but I thoroughly
enjoyed coaching both of them.” Sumner, a member of the AISA Hall of Fame, said he is well aware that today’s high school student-athletes have a myriad of distractions, including the ever-present social media, but added he still finds many young people who are willing to learn, and be coached as well. “They have so many other things they can do, with cell phones and all those good things, and Facebook, and they just have a lot of things going on,” he said. “Academic-wise, I think some schools are harder for them, but most are pretty dedicated players and I can’t complain about their practice habits and they’re very much coachable.”
FEBRUARY Calendar of Events “Real Lives: Observations and Reflections by Dale Kennington” Art Exhibit Reception: Feb. 11, 5 to 7 p.m., UA Gallery at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, downtown Tuscaloosa. Alabama alumna Dale Kennington’s works showcase scenes from ordinary life. Exhibit runs through March 11. Hearts on Fire for Arts ‘n Autism: Feb. 12-14. Tuscaloosa Flower Shoppe has teamed up with Arts ‘N Autism and will donate delivery fees and tips collected to the organization. For more information or to order flowers, go to tuscaloosaflowershoppe.com or call (205) 758-3065. Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Eagles’ “Hotel California”: Feb. 12, 8 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets: $25 and $30. For more information, visit bamatheatre.org. Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents The Glass Menagerie: Feb. 12 -21, Bean-Brown Theatre, Tuscaloosa. This must-see American play launched famed playwright Tennessee Williams into the spotlight, and it is one of the most famous plays of the modern theater. To purchase tickets, visit theatretusc.com or call the Theatre Tuscaloosa Box Office at (205) 391-2277. 2015 West Alabama Heart Walk: Feb. 13, 8 a.m. (walk begins at 9 a.m.) Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Festivities include music, refreshments, a kid zone with toys and games, health screenings and healthy living information, a dedicated survivor area, 3-mile walk and much more. For more information, visit westalheartwalk.org. 10th Annual Great Tuscaloosa Chili Cookoff: Feb. 13, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bryant Conference Center, Tuscaloosa. This annual event, sponsored by the Tuscaloosa Exchange Club, includes children’s activities, live entertainment, refreshments and of course, excellent chili. Sample 40 varieties and vote for your favorite! Cost: $10 (children 6 and under are free). For more information, visit tuscexchange.wordpress. com/cookoff-info. An Evening of Art and Blues, Alabama Blues Project: Feb. 13, 7 p.m. Band of Brothers Brewing Company, Tuscaloosa. This event is the ABP’s annual fundraiser, raising money and awareness for its award-winning after-school and summer Blues
Camps. This will celebrate ABP’s 20 years in the community. For more information, visit alabamablues.org. Pink Box Burlesque Presents “PBB’s Love Letters: A Valentine’s Delight”: Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Green Bar, Tuscaloosa. The Pink Box Burlesque will start their 9th season with live jazz, burlesque, comedy and much more. Tickets: $10 (at the door). 21 and up. For more information, visit pinkboxburlesque.com. “The Countess of Storyville” UA Theatre and Dance: Feb. 16-20, Marian Gallaway Theatre, University of Alabama campus. UA Theatre & Dance in association with Margot Astrachan deliver Broadway to Tuscaloosa with ‘The Countess of Storyville.’ This new American musical, cloaked in mystery and steeped in politics, follows a wealthy and beautiful woman’s return from Paris to operate a “house of ill repute.” For tickets, call (205) 348-3400 or visit ua.tix.com. “Calico Street” Troupe Performance: Saturday, Feb.20, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Northport Civic Center. This exciting stage play for kids (ages 5 to 11) features great programs of unpredictable fun and learning with costumed actors and dancers, lights and music. Admission is free, and parent seating is available. Come early to register. For more information and additional show dates, visit calicostreet.com. UA Theatre and Dance Presents “Ghosts”: Feb. 22-28, Allen Bales Theatre, University of Alabama campus. This haunting, passionate play by Henrik Ibsen centers around a mother who desperately tries to conceal the painful past of her late, philandering husband from her son. Tickets: $10. For more information, visit theatre.ua.edu or call (205) 348-3400. Krispy Kreme Challenge: Feb. 27, 10 a.m. Government Plaza, downtown Tuscaloosa. Challengers run one mile, eat one dozen doughnuts, and run one mile back to the finish line. Cash prizes are awarded. Casual participants are also welcome (and they can eat as many or as few doughnuts as they like). Proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama. For more information or to register, visit tuscaloosakkc.com. 2nd Annual Kidabaloo: Feb. 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Belk Center, Tuscaloosa. This family-friendly
day includes games, crafts, live entertainment and more – while also offering residents a chance to interact with local businesses. Special guests include actress Brec Bassinger, “Bella” from Nickelodeon’s Bella and the Bulldogs. For more information, visit kidabaloo.com. Black Warrior Film Festival: Feb. 26-27, UA campus and downtown Tuscaloosa. This event, produced for students and by students, showcases student films from across the Southeast and award-winning industry professionals. For more information and a full schedule of events, please visit blackwarriorfilmfest.com. Walk MS: West Alabama: Feb. 27, 9 a.m. (registration begins at 8 a.m.) Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. West Alabamians are teaming up to change the world for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis. Participants can choose from 1 or 3-mile, fully accessible routes. Money raised will help support programs and services for more than 7000 families affected by MS in Alabama and Mississippi. For more information, visit walkms.org, call (205) 879-8546 or email deanna.deschenes@nmss.org. Art Night in downtown Northport: Thursday, March 3, 5 - 8 p.m. Main Avenue, Northport. This event is free to the public. For more information, visit kentuck.org/art-night. The Actor’s Charitable Theatre presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream: March 4-6, Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. William Shakespeare’s entertaining comedy is tinged with music, magic and fantasy as a daughter’s fight with her father catapults her and her companions (friends and boyfriends) into a fantastic landscape of adventure and sorcery. Tickets cost $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $12 for students. For more information, including to purchase tickets, visit theactonline.com or call (205) 393-2800. Junior Achievement 2016 Bowling Classic: March 5, Bama Lanes, Tuscaloosa. This event, Junior Achievement’s biggest annual fundraising event, helps to support JA programs in area schools. Bowling times: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. To register, or for more information, email carla.harris@ja.org or call (205) 391-0335.
22 FOOD
February 2016
FEBRUARY RECIPES Hearty Chili for Sunday Night Chili
Warm, Chilly Weather
Recipes and Photos by Amy Poore
Hello, winter. Love it or hate it, we’re stuck with some chilly weather for the next little while, so I thought this month, I’d give you my favorite chili recipe. It always warms up my family – hopefully it will do the same for yours, too. And for those of you who love smoothies, I’ve got a great option. This orange dream smoothie is healthy and delicious (and let’s face it, these terms are not always synonymous). Stay warm, 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
Orange Dream Smoothie • 6 ounces of 2-percent, reduced-fat vanilla Greek yogurt • 2/3 cup ice cubes • 1/2 cup chopped, peeled, frozen mango • 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed preferred) • 1 medium orange, peeled and sliced into segments • 1 teaspoon vanilla
Place all ingredients in a blender, process for one minute or until completely smooth. Makes two servings.
• 12 ounces packaged bacon • 1 pound lean ground beef • 1 red bell pepper, diced • 1 sweet onion, diced • One 15-ounce can diced tomatoes • One 8-ounce can tomato paste • One 15-ounce can light red kidney beans, plus one can of water • One 15-ounce can of black beans, rinsed, plus one can of water • 1 1/2 tablespoons Chili powder • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 bay leaf • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire • 1 teaspoon onion powder • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon oregano • 1 teaspoon cumin • 1 teaspoon salt • Shredded cheese, green onion, Fritos and sour cream for toppings
Cook bacon until crisp, remove, crumble once cooled. In bacon grease, cook onion and red bell pepper for two minutes, then add in ground beef. Cook until browned; drain excess grease. Add crumbled bacon and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 1-1 1/2 hours. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve with toppings of your choice.
February 2016
TASTE OF TUSCALOOSA
Post Office Pies: Pizza Perfection One can never have too many pizza options, right? In a college town like Tuscaloosa, the answer is a sure fire, “No way!” Making a late December debut, Post Office Pies, located in downtown Tuscaloosa right behind Innisfree Irish Pub, is just shy of being two months old. Despite being here only a short time, word has traveled fast through T-Town that this is the next pizza hot spot. I had a chance to interview Post Office Pies’ Social Media Manager Rachel Wallace, who was kind enough to share the eatery’s history with me. “John Hall, our chef and one of our three owners, made his culinary mark in Manhattan,” Wallace said. “There, he developed a passion and love for New York-style pizza. He even ran a bike pizza delivery service out of his Brooklyn apartment.” Hall later returned to his hometown of Birmingham, working at Highland Bar & Grill and then, later, Saw’s Soul Kitchen in Avondale, where he developed a friendship with owners Mike Wilson and Brandon Cain. “This friendship turned into talks and dreams of opening a pizza joint next door in the old Avondale Post Office building, hence the name Post Office Pies,” said Wallace.
FOOD 23 by Sheena Gregg
Wallace indicates that what makes Post Office Pies stand out is the quality of the ingredients. ”We use all locally sourced fresh ingredients,” she said. “I think what makes us different is that we don’t have a stove or a microwave in our kitchen.” After hearing all the raves from both Wallace and my fellow foodie co-workers, I knew I had to try this place out for myself. I invited fellow-DCL contributor Candice Morris on my culinary adventure. Perusing the menu and feeling a bit on the dietitian side, I opted for the roasted beet salad with golden and red beets, arugula, orange-chive crème fraiche, and pecan granola, while Post Office Pies opened its second location in Alabama in Tuscaloosa in December. Photo: Sheena Gregg Candice went with a I will admit we were more than Post Office Pies is located at 1920 classic Margherita pizza pleased with our meal outing, and I Sixth Street, behind Innisfree Irish showcasing house-made mozzarella, think it’s safe to say that Post Office Pub. Visit postofficepies.com for more fresh basil, roasted cherry tomatoes, Pies is here to stay. If not for the information, including a full menu and and parmesan. Summing up our amazing pizza, then probably for the hours of operation. lunch extravaganza, I can aptly use seasonal salads, or the gulf oysters, or the words, “fresh,” “flavorful,” and the signature cocktails. Or all of it! “absolutely delicious.”