January 2014, Volume 1, Issue 1
Meet Tuscaloosa’s Kelsey Dee Smith, star of ‘Sweet Home Alabama’
Chuck Leavell
Photo credit: Allison Adams Rolling Stones keyboardist and Tuscaloosa native rocks the Bama Theatre. Page 8
Inside This Issue
About Us Business Celebrations Opinion Calendar Food Community Schools Sports
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by Haley Moody Tuscaloosa has it’s very own reality TV star in Kelsey Dee Smith. The Hillcrest High School graduate, who also attended Shelton State Community College, is currently appearing on season four of CMT’s hit reality show Sweet Home Alabama. Smith is relying on fate as she searches for her soul mate, choosing a suitor from among a group of handsome country and city-raised men. Smith grew up in Tuscaloosa, and says she keeps busy with Bama football in the fall. As for why she loved growing up here, Smith says, “because I feel like it’s the perfect size town.” Smith is also studying to become a teacher, and in one episode of Sweet Home Alabama, she even takes her remaining suitors to an elementary school class to see how they interact with kids. Smith was happy to discuss her experience on the show with Druid City Living, and she doesn’t hestitate to talk about the qualities of the guy who stole her heart, though his identity remained a secret until the show’s big finale. What inspired you to audition for Sweet Home Alabama? I have seen every season of the show. I knew that participating in Sweet Home Alabama would be an incredible experience! The show makes the South look good, and it was an incredible experience to go on fairy tale dates and find my one true love. What did you hope to get out of your time spent on the show, other than finding your one true love? I have always been the type of person that believes in fate. I didn’t exactly know what
I was getting myself into, but I knew I was going to let fate take over. I remember being so anxious to meet the guys. Now I’m so glad I did it. I came out with my soul mate and a handful of best friends. What kind of feedback have you gotten from friends and family since the show began airing? The one thing my friends and family love to do is try to pry out of me who I chose. They love to talk about everything, and of course they love to joke with me about “looking awkward” or pointing out that “I’m totally not into that guy.” What qualities are you looking for in a partner? I like to look at him as my other half, someone that was made for me. I always look for honesty, a sense of humor, and leadership abilities. I believe a man who has the qualities of a good dad would be a perfect match for me. During the show, where were some of the places you were able to visit with your suitors? We shot the show in Fairhope, Alabama. We went all over South Alabama and also went to Louisiana to the swamp! Were there ever moments when you forget that the TV cameras are on? After we really started filming I always forgot they were there. Now that the cameras have officially stopped rolling, how do you spend
your time? I spend a lot of my time volunteering at local elementary schools. I am also making appearances all over the South to promote the show. Has participating in the show changed your life in any ways, such as going to the grocery store, or an increase in people commenting or following you on social media? A lot of people recognize me now in public. Social media has changed drastically, but its really cool to connect with my fans all over the country. I read that before the show, you spent a lot of time in California working as a model. How long did you work on the coast and how different was the atmosphere compared to Alabama? I was blessed with the opportunity to do some modeling there. I would go out for a couple of weeks at a time and work and then come home to Tuscaloosa. California is a totally different world! Are you excited for all of us to finally find out which man won your heart on the show? “Yes, I’m so ready for that day!” We won’t have to wait, at all. Kelsey has her new man, and Druid City Living is getting all the scoop on the new couple. At press time, we couldn’t reveal his identity, but you can bet we’ll be following up with Kelsey Dee Smith in the weeks to come! Photo credit: Robby Klein
Hillcrest High School Class of 1988 reunion leads to a grand gesture of support By Laurie Mundy Perrigin Everyone likes to believe that when they graduate from high school, they’ll always remain close to their classmates. Many times, that’s exactly what happens. As the years go by, the inevitable happens: The craziness of everyday life draws classmates farther apart. Sure, everyone still thinks about everyone else, people keep up with classmates on social media...but it isn’t the same. That’s where class reunions come into play. Reunions, be they 10-year or 40-year, are a chance for everyone to get back together, if only for one weekend, to swap stories and catch up on lost years. In October, one such reunion led to a much, much bigger and even
more wonderful outcome. Members of the Hillcrest High School Class of 1988 decided to get together over the AlabamaTennesee game weekend. Everyone attended the Hillcrest football game on Friday night, October 25. On Saturday, October 26, the classmates all tailgated together near the University of Alabama campus, enjoying an afternoon cookout before the Bama game. Samuel Sumner, Monty Harvey and Chris Smelley organized the Hillcrest Class of ‘88 reunion. And yes, getting everyone together was fantastic, but ultimately, something even bigger came out of the gathering. One of the group’s classmates had faced a difficult year, and Sumner had an idea. A great one. LaJuana Cox Jordan’s
Samuel Sumner and Katelin Crigler visit with Brie Jordan
daughter, Brie, had recently battled leukemia. Eight-year-old Brie Jordan is in remission now, but the family was no doubt in need of some fun, relaxing down time. Sumner decided to collect a “love offering” from the class for Jordan and her family that could finance a family trip of their choice. Not surprisingly, the donations came pouring in. And on Saturday, December 7, classmates Samuel Sumner, Nikki Neighbors Perez, Kristi McMillan Bailey, Amy Ryan and Michael Harris made the trip to Atlanta to visit with LaJuana. Everyone got together to enjoy a meal and catch up. Then, Sumner presented Jordan with the biggest surprise of all: a trip to anywhere in the United States and some spending money. “Getting this together for
LaJuana was not hard since our class is full of caring, giving people that are willing to go to great strides to help each other in good times and bad times,” said Sumner. “We had a relatively small senior class and add in that, for the most part, we all went to elementary school together, and you have a group of people that know more about each other than some probably like.” Sumner also said of Brie Jordan, “She is a very sweet, smart, courageous and pretty young lady who has battled through a disease that no one wants to see any child go through,” adding, “We are so happy that she is in remission and hopefully this gift will offer her, and her family, a much deserved break from doctors and hospitals.”
Hillcrest High School Class of 1988 members and their families visited with LaJuana Cox Jordan, Brie Jordan and Ramon Jordan Photos: Michael Harris
About Us
January 2014 . Page 2
Photo of the Month
Area Teachers Receive Top Honors
Photo Credit: Lesley Bruinton
Four teachers were selected as the Tuscaloosa City School system’s Teacher of the Year as part of the Tuscaloosa City Schools system’s Apple Awards in December 2013. L to R: Latonia Binion-McCoy (Westlawn Middle School); Laren Hammonds (Rock Quarry Middle School); Paul McKendrick, Tuscaloosa City Schools superintendent; Alicia Berry Jenne (Rock Quarry Elementary School) and John Cain (Northridge High School)
Meet the Editors
Christina Jesson is the executive editor of Druid City Living, and lived in Tuscaloosa from 2004 to 2010. She grew up in Northwest Florida, and received her master’s degree in journalism from the University of Alabama in 2008. She was previously in public relations and marketing at the corporate level with Caterpillar, and at the agency level with Bobcat Company. She also held editorial positions at both Randall-Reilly Publishing and The Tuscaloosa News. She loves college football, cooking, running marathons, traveling and the beach.
Laurie Mundy Perrigin is the Tuscaloosa editor of Druid City Living. She has lived in Tuscaloosa since 1978. She received her bachelor’s degree in Telecommunication and Film from the University of Alabama in 1992. She spent 25 years working as a broadcast news director, anchor, producer and reporter in radio and television before moving on to the world of print and online media in 2008. In her free time, Laurie enjoys football (Alabama and the New Orleans Saints), travel, reading and hanging out with her husband, Jeff, and their dog, Chico Seymour Hoffman.
Druid City Living Directory
Publisher: Heath Hendrix
Executive Editor: Christina Jesson Editor: Laurie Mundy Perrigin Contributors: Allison Adams, Sandra Baker, Beth Branch, Michelle Crouse, Serena Fortenberry, Betty Freeman, Kimberly Gibson, Romel Gibson, Jonathan D. Guin, Heath Hendrix, Abby Horton, Robin Jenkins, Alicia Jenne, Casey Johnson, Karis Lamb Wilson, Ashley Williams Maughan, Haley Moody, Derek Osborn, Ellen Potts, Jack Ryan Director of Sales: Tom Sommerville
Sales: Joel Hastings Sales: Britney McComb Sales: John Ingram Sales: Becci Hauser Sales: Allison Adams Contact Information: Druid City Living 1902 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Please submit all articles, information and photos to: Laurie@ druidcitymedia.com For advertising, contact: contact@ druidcitymedia.com
Publisher’s Note
Hello fellow Tuscaloosians! I am excited to announce Druid City Living! This paper is the merging of North of The River Living and South of Town Journal. We will still focus on every community event that we can get our hands on while bringing you the same great celebrations and news from around West Alabama. This re-launch eliminates the headache some of you had in trying to obtain the other side of the river paper for those who had friends or family included in it. This is one centralized way, now, to bring you all of the good news that we can. I am also proud to announce that by combining the two titles, Druid City Living reaches over 50,000 households in Tuscaloosa County! Druid City Media provides not only this publication but we also offer a host of services for businesses and individuals as well. We have an entire in-house web development team as a part of Druid City Media as well. If you have interest in a website for your business, logo design, print or web ad design or just need a friendly person to talk to, drop us a line at contact@druidcitymedia.com! As always, thanks go out to our readers who we love to serve and to our advertisers that make this publication possible! Be sure to check us out online or on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or at our company site www.druidcitymedia.com. Thanks! Heath Hendrix Publisher, Druid City Living Co-Founder, Druid City Media heath@druidcitymedia.com
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Business
January 2014 . Page 4
Fit tips by Fitness One: New Year’s Resolutions By Jonathan Handjis Welcome to 2014, fitness enthusiasts. No doubt, a lot of people are looking to turn over a brand new leaf and get in shape this year. Often, that means joining a local gym with the hope that this will help them stay motivated. I see a lot of resolutionists join my gym at the start of each new year, and quite often 90 percent of them are gone by the second week of February. How can you make sure that you are one of the ones who succeed? Here are a few tips that I believe will help you with your quest to get in shape this year. Set proper goals. For example: if you want to lose weight, your goal should not be to lose one pound a week. Your goal should be work out three times every week. Period. If you are consistent with your workouts, everything else will fall into place. Be held accountable. If you have a workout partner who is waiting, you are more likely to go to the gym. If you are new to fitness, get a trainer for a few sessions to set up the habit of working out. Have fun! If you hate doing something, you won’t do it for very long. There are many options for working out. Find something that you enjoy doing and you’re much more likely to stick with it! Jonathan Handjis is the head trainer at Fitness One.
Photo credit: Allison Adams
West Alabama Chamber of Commerce Happenings
Gilda’s Salon & Day Spa Women’s Division Makes Rebuilds Annual Donation to Local Service Groups Congrats to Gilda’s Salon & Day Spa on rebuilding at 19 15th St. Our Women’s Division The original salon was destroyed distributed $6,500 to local by the tornado of 2011. The service organizations on Dec. new one is beautiful! We were 16. The money was raised honored to host a ribbon cutting through various projects in 2013. for it on Dec. 4. Recipients are pictured along with WDCC board members left to right: Loo Whitfield, Adopt-ASchool and WDCC board; Jan Sikes, Arts ‘N Autism; Sarah Morrison, Arts ‘N Autism; Sherrie Faulkner, Indian Rivers; Peggy Babb, WDCC board; Mary Elizabeth Harper, Tuscaloosa Public Library and WDCC board; Melissa Davis, WDCC board; Bag 101 Relocates Brenda Randall, WDCC board; Sharon Crosby, Temporary Bag 101 is now located at 312 Emergency Services; Kim Merchants Walk in Tuscaloosa. McMurray, WDCC board; and Stop in to check out the unique Kevin Ledgewood, Arts Council. inventory--which includes much more than bags--and meet owner Geri Nell Hamm. Call (205) 722-2298 for more info.
Ribbon Cutting at Black Warrior Brewing Company The Chamber hosted a ribbon cutting for Black Warrior Brewing Company, LLC on Dec. 11. What a cool place! It’s located at 2216 University Blvd., across the street from CHOM, in downtown Tuscaloosa.
Jim ‘N Nick’s Wins Downtown T-Town Holiday Window Competition Our Downtown Merchants committee partnered with PARA for a Holiday Window Competition. Businesses in the greater downtown area participated with the theme Candy Canes and Christmas Carols. Page Elected Chairman
Ribbon Cutting at Rick Rush Gallery Visit the Rick Rush America’s Sports Artist Gallery in downtown Tuscaloosa! The address is 2701 University Blvd. It’s open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The lovely space is available for your next event, too! Learn more at www. RickRushArt.com.
2014
CCAA
Jim Page, IOM, CCE, President and CEO, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, was elected Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama (CCAA) for 2014. He and five other Chamber executives were elected as Board of Directors members on Dec. 6 during the group’s annual meeting at the Harbert Center in Birmingham.
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Page 5 . January 2014
Sims’ Branch syrup-making:
Business
A great experience for everyone By Serena Fortenberry
Not so long ago, finding sugar cane syrup mills on farms throughout the South was not uncommon. Today, they are a rarity. In an age of store-bought everything -- what I like to call “factory food” --finding ingredients and products unspoiled by “processing” is a refreshing glimmer of hope in an over-packaged world of over-manipulated foods. And it seems a growing number of Americans agree, as evidenced by the rising numbers and popularity of farmers markets, cottage gardens, Whole Foods stores, urban hipster chicken coops, and opposition to companies ranging from Monsanto to McDonald’s. Perhaps the controversy that most parents are familiar with is the cheap sweetener debate, the insidious high fructose corn syrup, which has sneaked its way into almost everything, it seems. The amount of sugar my own children consume is a constant worry to me, but when I had the opportunity to take them to a sugar cane syrup mill recently, I didn’t hesitate. For them to have the opportunity to see not only a dying art but also to gain some appreciation for food chemistry that occurs without additives or preservatives or tampering, and to see the labor that goes into it and the pride of the farmers who make it -- for my city kids to get these moments is invaluable to me. Set on a rise above County Road 4, just north of Greensboro in Hale County, is the white farmhouse where Arthur Thomas, along with five of his six siblings, was born. On his father’s land he was born, and on his father’s land he lives still. His own son, Jamie, now lives there, too. There are cattle in the fields, chickens in the yard, and sugar cane grows near the road. It is Jamie Thomas who decided to cultivate cane and begin the syrup-making operations. Inspired by an uncle who makes syrup in nearby Bibb County, and guided by a friend who makes syrup in Greene County, Thomas has built his own mill. When his Greene County friend decided to go high-tech and get temperature-controlled stainless-
Sugar cane ready to mill.
This author is pretty ready to move to the country.
steel equipment, he gave his cast-off equipment to Jamie. cane didn’t bother me at all. They appreciated it in all of its In Hale County, there are no thermometers, no stainless simplicity. And I appreciated that. steel. Jamie has learned to tell when his syrup is done by Syrup season is over for this year. Sims’ Branch opens its viscosity -- he has a feel for it. He is so practiced, that operations on the second Saturday of each November. The the process has become intuitive for him. family is gracious, kind, and engaging -- they love to tell At the top of a hill overlooking a stream sits the mill, about their business, along with the only and they know it high-tech equipment well. Arthur served on site: The antique as a kind of tour press is now turned guide and historian by a gas-powered as he led us through motor, rather than the operations, the mules or horses. Men family’s history, and feed cut sugar cane stories about the old into the mill, which days. He encouraged presses the juice my children to out. The juice flows try everything; he through pipes into a knew that this was large copper trough something they or tray that sits on a should remember. brick oven in which a Along with the fire burns constantly wholesome foods during syrup making. trend, the shop local As the liquid heats, ethos has also been it moves through a Son William and husband Wyn Fortenberry take over on the rise in recent series of channels, the mill for a moment and feed cane into it. years. Buying cane slowly thickening as syrup from Sims’ it reaches the other end of the trough. Meanwhile, Jamie Branch satisfies both. We purchased syrup for ourselves, and his helpers skim foam in the opposite direction, and then we purchased lots more for gifts. Want to get some, removing impurities from the syrup. The process is simple, too? I can’t guarantee it, but perhaps if you go to the Sims’ if laborious; the results are beautiful. Visitors to Sims’ Branch Syrup Company, as Jamie has Branch Syrup Company Facebook page, you can find out named his enterprise, have the opportunity to sample the if any is left. But even if there isn’t, you will want to “like” cane juice before it is cooked, and they can try the syrup the page so that next November, when you and your kids when it is finished. On our visit, everyone in my family got are in the midst of another hectic school year, and your kids to feed the cane into the mill, and our children got to chew have eaten more Happy Meals than you can count, and you on the sugar cane just like their father and grandfather did never want to see another piece of Halloween candy again, when they were kids. We even brought a large stalk home, you will be reminded of something simpler and sweeter where they continued their gnawing and sucking. And when Sims’ Branch announces its annual commencement whereas constant candy generally irritates me, chewing on of syrup-making operations.
My son Malcolm, playing with old stalks.
Jugs of syrup are $8 each. Put it on a bis- Jamie Thomas tends the syrup, standing in a cloud of sugar steam. cuit. Know heaven. Photo credit: Serena Fortenberry
Business
January 2014 . Page 6
New Tuscaloosa realtors sworn in
Photo credit: Allison Adams
During the Tuscaloosa Association of REALTORS Luncheon at Indian Hills Country Club, the new REALTOR Induction and Swearing in Ceremony was conducted by Brenda Wallace, with designated brokers presenting pins to: Allison Adams, Duckworth Morris; Kirk Eaton, Corder Real Estate; Rachel Ellison, Duckworth Morris; Matt Farris, Farris Real Estate; Nick Hardy, Realty Executives; Erica Jones, Russell Realty; Leslie Knox, Hamner Real Estate; Rhonda Mosley, RealtySouth; Brandon Roberts, Duckworth Morris; Karen Schille, Realty South; Josh Smith, Prudential Pritchett-Moore; and Ken Worley, Patton Realty.
THE FINE PRINT: An Affordable Care Act Update By Jonathan D. Guin, Tanner & Guin, LLC
and any potential penalties.
You have probably been bombarded with news about the Affordable Care Act, or “Obamacare,” non-stop since the less than ideal launch of the HealthCare.gov website on October 1. You pretty much haven’t been able to turn on a news program or open a newspaper without someone telling you why the website’s failures spell the doom for the Affordable Care Act or why it has already gotten better and is helping thousands of people. And, while all of this is relevant to everyone, there are many other portions of the law that will greatly impact individuals and business owners alike that have not received the attention they deserve. This short article will give you an introduction into some of those other important issues which could affect your personal or business finances in the upcoming years.
SHOP Marketplace One of the few benefits provided to small employers with less than 50 full time employees is through the creation of the very recently opened SHOP Marketplace, a program designed to entice small employers to offer their employees health coverage. Basically, the SHOP Exchange provides tax credits for offering health insurance, depending on how many employees you have and how much the average employee makes (the fewer employees and the less they make means a bigger tax credit). The deadline for enrolling your business in the SHOP Exchange was originally December 15, but the administration extended the deadline to December 23. If you missed the deadline, you can still enroll down the road, but the requirements to enroll may get significantly harder. If you are a small employer who already offers health coverage, you may be leaving money on the table by not enrolling in SHOP.
The Employer Mandate The employer mandate is one of the primary enforcement mechanisms in the law, requiring employers with 50 or more full-time employees to provide minimum essential group health insurance at affordable standards or pay tax penalties. These penalties can be quite substantial, equal to either $2,000 per employee (excluding the first 30) for businesses that do not offer insurance, or $3,000 per employee who receives a subsidy from an exchange for employers that do offer insurance. These provisions were originally slated to become effective in this new year, but in 2013, President Obama declared that the government would not enforce the employer mandate until 2015. While this provides a temporary reprieve from the penalties, employers with more than 50 full-time employees should start planning now for ways to reduce or mitigate the cost of the mandate
The Individual Mandate While the employer mandate was delayed until 2015, the individual mandate remains effective January 1. What does this mean for individuals and business owners in 2014? Individuals who do not get adequate coverage must pay a fine equal to the greater of $95 or 1 percent of household income. These penalties will go up to $325 and 2 percent in 2015, and $695 and 2.5 percent in 2016. For business owners, it means they may see higher participation rates in their health plans, so plan costs might rise over the coming years. Limited Employer Health Coverage Options Some of the health coverage options that employers have enjoyed providing in the past are flexible spending
accounts, health reimbursement accounts, and other types of standalone health plans. In 2013, the government released new regulations limiting employees’ options to take part in these benefits. Importantly, employees are no longer permitted to pay for individual health insurance plan premiums out of an employer sponsored flexible spending account. Basically, the government only wants to subsidize health insurance in two places, the health insurance market exchanges and employer sponsored plans. Therefore, if you are currently enrolled in or offer your employees one of these options, you will need to prepare for these options to be greatly limited in 2014. These are just some of the complicated pieces of the Affordable Care Act that will have a huge impact on individuals and business owners over the next two years. Complying with all of the requirements will take a lot of planning and consulting with your plan administrator, lawyer, and accountant. And, the sooner you get out in front of the requirements, the more options and flexibility you will have in preventing unnecessary costs and penalties. So my advice: don’t wait until December 2014 to plan for how to deal with the employer mandate or reporting requirements; plan now and save money. Jonathan D. Guin practices law with the Tanner & Guin firm in downtown Tuscaloosa. He can be reached at 205633-0212 or jdguin@tannerguin.com. This article is intended for general information purposes only, does not purport to offer legal advice in any form, and is not a comprehensive legal assessment. A reader’s particular legal position is dependent upon the facts of its situation. Readers should contact an attorney for application of the law and regulations to specific fact situations.
Submissions So much of this Druid City Living paper is due to you, the community of Tuscaloosa, offering up your stories in the form of submissions. We’d love more. If you’d like to contribute a story or idea that you feel needs to be told, please email Tuscaloosa Editor Laurie Mundy Perrigin at Laurie@druidcitymedia.com.
Business
www.druidcityliving.com
Page 7 . January 2014
UA Vice Chancellor Jo Bonner discusses economic development in Tuscaloosa By Allison Adams On November 20, the Tuscaloosa Area Association of REALTORS hosted Jo Bonner, University of Alabama Vice Chancellor and former U. S. Congressman, to share his views on Tuscaloosa’s economic development. Bonner addressed nearly 300 Realtors with a question: “How effective do you think the growth here in Tuscaloosa is progressing?” The room raised their hands after he asked how many thought it favorable. “How effective do you think the economy is progressing as a nation?” he proceeded. There were only a few hands. “How many of you want your taxes to increase?” he asked. No hands. Bonner informed the group of a recent talk he did where 80 percent of the crowd answered “Yes,” before quoting a recent Arkansas Democrat-Gazette article which stated that the “U.S. must increase the national debt before it is too late.” Bonner spoke of the many challenges facing our nation, stating that sometimes we just want to turn off the television. He encouraged all Americans to continue, as Tuscaloosa has, to push through with great strength, as shown by Nick Saban and his football team, as well as through activities such as the coat and can drive that went on just before he spoke to help those around us. “America knows Tuscaloosa. Not only for great football, but as we know, we can all be in need in an instant. The Tuscaloosa tornadoes showed the world how great this city is as they pulled together and not only re-built, but made it better,” Bonner said. Jo Bonner thanked University of Alabama System Chancellor Dr. Robert Witt for bringing him to Tuscaloosa to join in what he called a “most impressive community.” “Be very optimistic,” he praised, as he shared statistics on Tuscaloosa’s unfounded growth, as shared by Grayson Glaze, Associate Director of Alabama Center for Real
Estate at the University of Alabama System. In 2008, 151 residential homes sold just before the recession began. In 2012, 131 homes sold in the Tuscaloosa area. In 2013, 180 sold. Bonner also spoke of great things regarding industry in Alabama, with Mercedes-Benz celebrating its 20-year anniversary of being in the U.S. and on Alabama soil in 2013. Today, Alabama is the fifth largest automotive state because it took a $250 million gamble. Growth projections are showing Alabama as the third largest in the next five years. Airbus Alabama is making a stake in U.S. production in Mobile. 55,000 jobs exist now in the automotive industry that did not exist. The C-Class will join the ranks of U.S. manufactured Mercedes inventory. Bonner spoke humbly of his upbringing in Monroeville and the blessed opportunity to work with an institution such as The University of Alabama. “The University is the largest employer in the state,” he said. “And Tuscaloosa is the only city in the state to be home to a governor, two members of congress and an impressive young mayor making big changes in Tuscaloosa’s position in this state.” When Dr. Witt came to the University there were 28,000 students. This year, there are 33,000, with an 81 percent growth in a decade. No flagship in America has achieved this. Bonner spoke of the quality of students at the University of Alabama with 28 percent of them never making a B. The faculty has increased by 47 percent, with goods and service needs trickling out into our neighborhoods and retail stores. “Don’t sell your profession or the need for your relationships in the community short,” he told the Realtors Association. “You are helping people make the largest purchase of their lives and the next decade promises to be even better than Tuscaloosa’s past.”
Tax deductions for property owners By Jack Ryan Thanks to the efforts of the National Association of Realtors and other real estate industry and home ownership advocates, certain home ownership costs continue to be available as income tax deductions. Listed below are some deductions you may be qualified to take. Please keep in mind the tax code and available deductions may change from year to year. If you see something that you wish to know more about, please contact your CPA or tax attorney for a full explanation. The Mortgage Interest Deduction is one of the few major annual income tax deductions left to homeowners. The amount of your house payment calculated as interest may be deducted from your income as though you didn’t earn it. This is especially helpful in the first years of a mortgage when the amount of interest makes up most of the payment. If you are renting however, you must pay income taxes on the total year’s rent. Your Real Estate Property Tax Deduction may be one of few times your income is taxed only once. In Tuscaloosa County, property taxes are lower than most other areas so the overall effect is not as significant as the mortgage interest deduction. However it is still income tax free. The Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) Deduction may be available to homeowners who made a down payment of less than 20% when they purchased their homes. The amount of PMI in your house payment will vary according to your down payment and your loan program. It can add up to a fairly significant amount annually. You must meet certain standards to qualify
for this deduction. It is not available to all homeowners. The Mortgage Points/Origination Deduction may be available to you if you paid your lender a fee equal to a number of percentage points at the loan settlement. The entire origination fee is deductible only for the year in which your purchase. If you are refinancing, the deductible amount must be spread out over the life of the loan. The Profit on the Sale of Real Estate Deduction is a major income tax savings to homeowners. Individuals can claim up to $250,000 of profit from the sale of their homes tax-free, and married couples can claim up to $500,000 tax-free. Many of us may never have to pay a capital gains tax on profit from the sale of our homes while this deduction is available. There are certain conditions you must meet in order to qualify for this deduction. Disclaimer: To the extent that this message or any attachment concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. This message was written to support the promotion or marketing of the transactions or matters addressed herein, and the taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. Jack Ryan is an associate broker at Blue Creek Realty. For the past 20 years, he has been helping people in Tuscaloosa County buy and sell homes. He is available for consultation at no charge to buyers and sellers alike. You may contact him at (205) 886-0187 or jack@jackryanhomes.com. Learn more at www.jackryanhomes.com.
Photo Credit: Allison Adams Nikki Simmons, Executive Vice President of TAR, accepted the “Making a Difference” award presented by Moody Radio on behalf of the 370 realtors and 85 affiliates who make a difference in our community. The group collected coats and canned goods for area residents in need during the meeting. “I am so proud of our members and the difference they make in our community and that they received the recognition they deserve,” Simmons said. To find a REALTOR member in your area visit tuscaloosarealtors.com.
Celebrations
January 2014 . Page 8
Chuck Leavell comes home to rock Tuscaloosa By Allison Adams
Chuck Leavell is no stranger to America. Leavell is a world tour keyboardist for The Rolling Stones, a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award winner for his work with the Allman Brothers Band and in recent years, he has worked as a pianist on John Mayer albums, as well as with Eric Clapton and even Miranda Lambert. He is also no stranger to Tuscaloosa, where he grew up after moving here at the age of nine. Many remember his band, the Misfitz, who performed on Friday nights at the YMCA just blocks away from The Bama Theatre. On November 8, Leavell was back in town with the Randall Bramblett Band, to play a benefit concert for the Bama Theatre Restoration Fund. The vibe inside the Bama Theatre was electric, as Leavell sang a few Rolling Stones favorites and his originals. From the balcony to the stage, fans sang along. His fingers were in overdrive on songs like “Jessica” and the communication between him and fans in the audience resembled that of
“coming home.” Leavell and his wife, Rose Lane, who have been married more than 40 years, greeted guests, old friends and chatted with some new fans after the show while he showcased his newest passion, writing. His latest book, Growing A Better America, was showcased at the Savannah Book Festival. Songwriters such as John Denver, Jackson Browne and bands like U2 have been singing to the world about global issues, and, like these artists, Leavell and his wife live out their message. They live on Charlane Plantation, 2,500 acres outside of Macon, Georgia, that were left to his wife by her parents. After years paying inheritance taxes to “buy back what was theirs,” they vowed to have it as a self-sustaining property. They have won numerous awards through the state of Georgia for their research and stewardship, and Leavell has been made an honorary Ranger. “Growing A Better America” highlights his research and ideas to make more productive in developing our greatest asset, land, with examples of projects that “do it right”. As a Georgia resident, it concerns him that the state is losing 19,000 acres of natural land a year. He has co-founded Mother Nature Network with 222,000 followers on Facebook. In recent months in Alabama, a “secret” private investor acquired 73,000 acres of prime timberland mainly used now for hunting and timber surrounding
Birmingham. Perhaps that will remain green but who is to say? Unless we all take heart, we too may find ourselves without green places to roam. Alabama has the third most timberland acreage (22.9 million acres/ nearly 68% of the total land area) behind only Georgia and Oregon, according to the Alabama Forestry Commission. Being one of the only states with navigable waters that flow to the Gulf, there are also logistical advantages. Alabama is in the forefront for reforestation (begun in Alabama by pioneer E.F. Allison with Allison Lumber Company in Bellamy) as well as game management tactics he devised to assure that dwindling populations would turn into the boom of deer populations we see today. Timber expansion in Alabama is ahead of removal by 23 percent with 1.1 million acres since 1978 when numbers were at 650,000 acres according to amazingalabama.com. In Alabama, everyone has the opportunity to experience the woods, aspire to own land and cultivate the green space that God has given us. If we each, according to Leavelle, just consider our individual carbon footprint we can make great strides in the right direction. To learn more about Leavell’s book or his endeavors, find him at chuckleavell.com or charlane.com. Author Allison Adams is a forest landowner, photographer/writer and Realtor with Duckworth Morris in Tuscaloosa. www.allisonpadams.com
Ed and Fred Foster, renowned for creating the Rolling Stones’ guitar straps, were on hand to enjoy the evening.
Leavell met with fans to sign his book after the show, including Brent McCollough, a pianist in the University of Alabama School of Music.
Photo credit: Allison Adams
Celebrations
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Page 9 . January 2014
United Way of West Alabama exceeds 2013 campaign total The United Way of West Alabama had great reason to celebrate in 2013. The agency exceeded its campaign goal, raising more than $3.355 million between the start of the annual campaign drive in August and December. The original goal set for funding the nine-county coverage area was $3.26 million. The campaign drive results were revealed at a huge Campaign Celebration held on December 10 at the Cypress Inn Pavilion. “Tonight was really a time to celebrate the power of a community when it works united,” said Jackie Wuska, UWWA’s President and CEO. “The people in West Alabama give of their money and time every year to make a positive combined impact—and for that we need to celebrate and give thanks.” “We are fortunate to have so many people in our communities that realize the value of giving back,” said Fran Powe, UWWA Campaign Director. “Local companies, despite continuing economic setbacks, championed the drive and employee giving increased in many of them. Individuals continue to up their donations year after year. It’s terrific to see the outpouring of generosity.” UWWA’s annual campaign raises money to fund its 27 partner agencies that improve education, income stability and health for people in nine West Alabama counties. Partner agencies include the Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, Temporary Emergency Services, the Boys and Girls Clubs of West Alabama, and West Alabama AIDS Outreach. These United Way partner agencies provide direct help to the community in various ways, from providing kindergarten-readiness programs proven to improve a child’s chances of doing well and staying in school to providing food, clothing and shelter to those in need due to low income or natural disaster.
UWWA Campaign Director Fran Powe and Tommy Hester enjoyed the Campaign Celebration
UWWA President and CEO Jackie Wuska celebrates with Sam Faucett
Guests at the Campaign Celebration enjoyed a wonderful evening Photo credit: Julie Mann
West Alabama Juried Art Show winners announced Several area artists were honored for their works in the 29th Annual Juried Show for West Alabama Artists. The exhibit was up at the Bama Theatre’s Junior League Gallery through December 2013, and winners were invited to a special public reception. The winners were: $750 Purchase Award: Jamey Grimes for “Strata XI” $300 Cash Award: Nick Davis for “Nothing’s Gonna Change the Way You Feel About Me Now” $100 Award of Excellence: Tom Rogers for “Intensity” $100 Award of Excellence: Claire Siepser for “Baggage Carnival” $100 Award of Excellence: Diana Whitmer-Francko for “Memories in a Jar” Honorable Mention: Allison Durham for “Soil” Honorable Mention: Amy Pirkle for “Close to Home” Honorable Mention: Shannon Thacker for “Cradle”
Congratulations!
O Christmas tree Students from Holt Elementary School made beautiful ornaments to decorate the Junior League of Tuscaloosa’s Christmas tree for the Tinsel Trail. The tree, decorated on December 1, was on display along the Tinsel Trail at Tuscaloosa’s Riverwalk. Celebrating the festive afternoon of decorating are Cathleen Hines, Anne Rogers Hines, Sally Cate Hines, Ann Sapala, and Karen Thompson. Photo credit: Cathleen Hines
Photo credit: Allison Adams
Celebrations
January 2014 . Page 10
Tuscaloosa Garden Club at Flatwoods Elementary School By Mia Martin
The Tuscaloosa Garden Club gave awards for top winners in the Smokey/Bear Woodsy Owl poster contest at Flatwoods Elementary School in Northport on November 6. Second- and third-graders participated in the poster contest as they learned about preventing forest fires and caring for our land. The children made posters depicting Smokey Bear or Woodsy Owl along with their motto (“Lend a hand, care for the land”) and artwork depicting
this motto being carried out. The top three posters were chosen from each participating classroom. All total, there were four 1st place winners, four 2nd place winners and four 3rd place winners. The 1st place winning posters will be forwarded to The Garden Club of Alabama to be judged against other posters in the state. The state of Alabama winners for each grade level will then be forwarded on to the National Garden Club, where a winner will be chosen and given a trip to Washington D.C. for themselves and their family. The four 1st place winners from Flatwoods Elementary School were Daniella Izaguitte, 2nd grade, Mrs. Morris’
Photo credit: Cassie Davis
L to R Front row: Jessica Poling, Kelsey Jimenez, Daniella Izaguitte and Sidney Davis Back row: Tuscaloosa Garden Club members Mia Martin, Janelle Gray and Wanda Moore
class, Sidney Davis, 2nd grade, Mrs. James’ class, Jessica Poling, 3rd grade, Mrs. Logan’s class and Kelsey Jimenez, 3rd grade, Mrs. Barbier’s class. All participating children received an award certificate and Smokey Bear/Woodsy Owl goodies. Smokey Bear surprised the children by appearing at the program. In addition, forester Brad Fite was on hand to talk to the children about the importance of preventing fires, reporting a fire and caring for our land. For more information about the Tuscaloosa Garden Club, contact Mia Martin, president, at (205) 394-4081.
Photo credit: Wanda Moore
L to R: First place winners Daniella Izaguitte, Sidney Davis, Jessica Poling and Kelsey Jimenez
Tuscaloosa Garden Club decorates area mansions for Christmas By Mia Martin
The Tuscaloosa Garden Club participated with local garden clubs in decorating Tuscaloosa’s Battle-Friedman House and the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, both on Greensboro Avenue, on November 29 in preparation for The Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society’s Open House on December 1. Tuscaloosa Garden Club members
gathered fresh greenery, holly with berries, nandina with berries, pine cones, nuts and fruit for the decorating. In addition, The Home Depot donated fresh wreaths, garlands and greenery from Christmas trees to the Tuscaloosa Garden Club for decorating. Fresh fruit baskets were placed on the tables. Garden Club members put up a live Christmas tree in the Jemison Home and decorated it with handmade, crocheted ornaments, placing a hand crocheted skirt
A fresh holiday wreath adds stunning appeal to a fireplace at the Battle-Friedman House. Photo credit: Mia Martin
Garden Glub member Joyce Ochoa completes a design at the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion
around the tree. Several flower designs using pine, magnolia, ornamental grasses, fern, fatsia, aspidistra, English yew, juniper, crooked willow, and pheasant feathers were placed in different rooms. Garlands and wreaths were hung from the mantles. A member’s mother’s churn was placed on one of the hearths. Baskets of pine cones and nuts were also used as decorations. Several hundred people attended the Christmas Open House, which included tours of the homes.
L-R: Louise Standifer, Sally Moon, Wimbreth Chism, and Wanda Moore at Battle-Friedman House
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Page 11 . January 2014
Celebrations
Photos by Jeff Perrigin
Celebrations
January 2014 . Page 12
An evening of elegance: The Lucy Jordan Ball By Casey Johnson
Over 200 guests showed their commitment to our community’s healthcare at this year’s Lucy Jordan Ball hosted by The DCH Foundation at NorthRiver Yacht Club on November 15. This year’s ball was chaired by Mrs. Robert Amason, Jr., Mrs. Robert Kuhn, and Mrs. Howard Winfield. This year’s guests contributed to specialized bedside computer units at both DCH campuses that will transform the patients’ experience by making it possible for nurses and doctors to input patient information into the chart right at the bedside in real time, increasing accuracy, patient safety, and a more supportive relationship between doctors, nurses, patients and their families. Platinum Benefactors Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, The WHMZ Group at Morgan Stanley, West Alabama Urology Associates and The Supper Club enjoyed dedicated VIP lounge areas with specialized seating, their names in lights on the patio of the club, and dedicated service before and after dinner. Decorations chairs Mrs. H. Leslie Fowler and Mrs. Chris Ball worked with Matt Clinton Designs to transform NorthRiver Yacht Club for the evening with elaborate flowers and striking black and white striped table linens, in keeping with the “Black and White” theme. To enhance the effect, large black and white chandeliers hung above the black and white dance floor and sculptural, handmade magnolia topiaries lined the walkways.
The Prize Drawing is always a high point of the evening, and Mrs. James Meherg and Mrs. Robert Kuhn announced the winners of $1,000 prizes generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hahn, Hudson-Poole Fine Jewelers, Matt Clinton Designs and The Westervelt Company. Favors of black and white themed stationery were provided for each couple by Fincher & Ozment Jewelers. Highlights of the evening’s menu included appetizers of lamb lollipops with minted sea salt, and roasted pear with Oregonzola cheese atop hazelnut brittle. Dinner featured filet mignon with butter poached lobster and red wine demi-glace. A sampler of desserts finished the meal with lavender panna cotta, miniature cheesecakes and a crème brûlée cookie served with a cappuccino milkshake. Dinner music was provided by pianist Susan Goode, and the Birmingham-based band The Negotiators added energy and fun with after-dinner dancing late into the evening, even concluding the party with a very popular acoustic “sing-along” that grabbed the attention of a large group of guests who enjoyed the evening to the very end. The quality of our community’s healthcare depends on the commitment of our community’s leaders and citizens. As such, The DCH Foundation board of directors and this year’s Lucy Jordan Ball chairs would like to thank the many donors who recognize the importance of making a difference in the community through the DCH Health System, and encourage everyone to consider taking part in this very important annual event.
Ball chairs with Lucy Jordan: Mama Lucy Jordan (center) with the 37th Lucy Jordan Ball chairs, from left - Lori Winfield, Lynda Kuhn and Noel Amason.
DCH Foundation Board President and Master of Ceremonies Gene “Poodgie” Poole with daughter-in-law Krista Poole (left) and wife Jamie Poole (right) enjoy the evening.
Guests of the Mercedes-Benz US International: Mr. and Mrs. Jason Hoff, Mr. and Mrs. Christoph Starzynski, Mr. and. Mrs. Hans Crouse and Mr. and Mrs. Bob Gambrell
An example of the specialized carts to be purchased with proceeds from the evening’s fundraiser.
Krista Poole, Ashley DeFlora, Natalie Abbott and Georgia Abston
A view of the new Platinum Benefactor VIP areas for the evening.
Photo credit: The DCH Foundation
Opinion Lake Living: Natural beauty for everyone
January 2014 . Page 14
There is something magical about nature. Step out of the car after a long day and get a glimpse of a lake, a stream, a tree in bloom and watch your cares drop away, at least for that moment. Here in Tuscaloosa, residents have the opportunity to enjoy year round access to the Black Warrior River, Lake Tuscaloosa and nature at every turn. I moved to Lake Tuscaloosa from Birmingham in May after ten years as a writer, artist and Realtor. Birmingham boasts a couple of great community papers and magazines, some which I have written for. When I saw North of the River Living, I was excited. I begged for a chance to share all I love about living on Lake Tuscaloosa. It is my goal in this monthly column to write about unique activities that take place on and around the 177 miles of shoreline and the banks of local rivers and streams. Alabama boasts football, but we are also home to the greatest freshwater biodiversity in the nation. Combine that with mountains and sandy beaches and you have to puff up a bit when realizing this place is pretty spectacular. For this column, we welcome your stories, big catch photos, and look forward to interviewing those who make the waterfront their home. We will feature activities that take place on the lake. In my four or so years as a Bama student some years ago I crossed the spillway, but never explored the lake. I grew up near here in West Alabama (Livingston) and married on Lake Tuscaloosa. The intimate cabin at Northriver Yacht Club was to be the site before it became an extravaganza suited for the crystal room with twelve bridesmaids and fourteen groomsmen. To say it is ironic that I will retire here with my forever husband of ten years would be an understatement. I lived on the beach for four years. Before moving here, I lived in Crestline and we had a home on Lake Martin. Residents here may not recognize the unique, quiet, non-fluctuating treasure nestled in our own back yard. I’ll try my best not to share this with those in Birmingham who haven’t realized this is far better and closer than Lake Martin.
In winter at Lake Martin, the water level drops significantly due to Alabama Power fluctuations. Here, I can barely see a change. Year round, when bizarre warm weather rolls across the cliffs, we could slip out on the water, or at least put our toes in at the dock. There are dozens of neighborhoods that call the lakeside home and a number of rural areas that keep her shores wild with deer and turkey. Just down the street from me is a parcel of land I dream of with a barn, acreage and water frontage. A stone’s throw from there is a public island ready for anyone to pop a tent and have a campfire and across the road, a quaint planned development with a shared pool and public boat docks. Clifftops boast million dollar refuges just beyond this tranquil spot. All of this is surrounded by Northport’s treasured artsy cuisine spots and convenient to grocery stores. It is less than twelve minutes (five miles north) from downtown Tuscaloosa’s great restaurants and shops With the new year, the trees are dormant, providing unobstructed views of the sun as it dances on the water. All of this is what Tuscaloosa’s lake living is all about. In the New Year, I hope you will make it a priority to get outside and soak in nature, whether in the woods or around any water. Blessings for the best year ever in 2014. I’m looking forward to sharing your memories, both past and those you make this year. Allison Puccetti Adams
A Reader Shares her Memories from South of Town
South of Town is the best place to live. and dressing, and sometimes Ruthie made I have lived here all my life, and that has chicken and dressing too. All the children been 70 plus years. I live in the house were there, and the laughter, tears and fun where I spent my childhood, and boy how filled all of the kitchens. it has changed. Most of these wonderful mothers are Recently, a group of “girls” that grew gone, but the legacy that they left lives in up in this area began getting together for each of us. lunch once a month to catch up on the years I remember the Bush family built a since we lived down here. Living south of small park, with tables and a place to town in the 1940s, 50s and 60s, was kind of barbecue, and from time to time the whole considered living in the country, neighborhood would have gatherings there, having chickens, horses and pigs, often inviting extended family members. among other things. What fun! Searcy Heights... was a Watching the houses Searcy Heights, neighborhood. being destroyed or now known as 39th wonderful Street, was a wonderful Rarely did anyone lock their moved to build I 20/59 neighborhood. Rarely doors and I 359 was so sad did anyone lock their (359 cut Searcy doors. Our family, now realizing that -Sandra Henry Baker Heights into two we were probably the poorest, was sections). Families the last to have indoor plumbing, but it was moved in a lot of different directions, but never felt because the love for all was so stayed close in each person’s hearts. Many great. continue to see each other regularly. Not many of the mothers back then What changes have occurred since worked outside the home, but boy did those highways have been built! Missing they work! On Mondays, they would get the old, but thankful for the progress (I together, rotating on the homes visited think). Thank you for your new journal. It with a specialty of that particular cook. has tickled a lot of memories that I have Everyone would bring a dish. Margaret enjoyed. often made a casserole. Emmit made Sincerely, homemade soup. Louise made chicken Sandra Henry Baker
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Photo credit: Allison Adams Allison is an artist/ photographer/ author and Realtor with Duckworth Morris. Send stories/comments to allison@druidcitymedia.com
Page 15 . January 13, 2014
Saturday Banking at the Lake Tuscaloosa Branch
Visit the Lake Tuscaloosa Branch for full-service banking on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. til 12:00 p.m. Beginning February 8, you can meet with your banker, open a new account, access your safe deposit box –- and more! Stop by to learn more about our financial products and services. For a complete list of hours and locations, please visit our website.
Lake Tuscaloosa Branch 4901 Rice Mine Rd NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
bankoftuscaloosa.com
205-345-6021
Bank of Tuscaloosa is a division of Synovus Bank. Synovus Bank, Member FDIC, is chartered in the state of Georgia and operates under multiple trade names across the Southeast. Divisions of Synovus Bank are not separately FDIC-insured banks. The FDIC coverage extended to deposit customers is that of one insured bank.
Calendar
January 2014 . Page 16
The Dance Initiative Holiday Show The Dance Initiative offered an excellent way to get into the spirit of the holidays, presenting “Where Are You Christmas?” at the Central High School Theater in December. The high-energy Christmas performance had everyone tapping their toes and smiling in their seats, watching nearly 70 of Tuscaloosa’s most talented dancers bringing both traditional and current holiday tunes to life with jazz, hip hop, ballet, tap and contemporary dance routines. Everyone who participated in “Where Are You Christmas?” was asked to bring a toy for the Salvation Army. Audience members were also encouraged to donate toys, with hopes of providing up to 200 new toys for area children. For more information on The Dance Initiative, visit www.thedancecentre.net or call (205) 752-5354.
Photo credit: Jennifer Hamner
Wendy Reed: A discussion of self-reflection Author Wendy Reed visited the Tuscaloosa Public Library’s Main Branch on November 14, to discuss her new book, An Accidental Memoir: How I Killed Someone and Other Stories. Reed’s memoir explores a wide variety of topics, including a 1996 car accident that took another woman’s life. Reed, an award-winning writer and produc-
er for Alabama Public Television, talked at length to the intimate crowd about her life, and many of the tragedies she’s encountered, during her appearance in the Rotary Room at the Library. It was, at its heart, a discussion of self-reflection. Reed also read from An Accidental Memoir, took questions from the audience, and autographed copies of An Accidental Memoir for everyone.
YMCA CEO Walt Larisey and his daughter, Annabelle
YMCA of Tuscaloosa presents Father Daughter Dinner Date night The Tuscaloosa YMCA’s annual Father Daughter Dinner Date is a great opportunity for area dads to spend time with their daughters over Valentine’s Day and show them how special they truly are. This event will be held at Chuck’s Fish in downtown Tuscaloosa on Wednesday, Feb. 12th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Open to fathers and daughters of all ages, the Father Daughter Dinner Date will include dinner, a special gift from Hudson-Poole, prize giveaways, a personalized photo, and dancing. This is a wonderful way to spend time with your daughter over Valentine’s Day and show her how special she is to you. Spots are limited! Sign-up today by contacting the downtown YMCA at (205)345-9622 or email waltlarisey@ ymcatusc.org. Photo courtesy of the Tuscaloosa YMCA
Photo credit: Vince Bellofatto, Tuscaloosa Public Library
Calendar
www.druidcityliving.com
Page 17 . January 2014
Calendar of Events
Guns & Hoses 5K and Fun Run: Jan. 11, 8 a.m., Munny Sokol Park, Tuscaloosa. Run with our local heroes as they duke it out in a race for bragging rights. All fitness levels welcome. Entry fees: $25/5k and $10/1-mile Fun Run. For more information, call (205) 758-0419.
Clear Channel 11th Annual Classic Bridal Show: Jan. 19th, noon to 4 p.m., Jemison Van de Graaff Mansion. For more information, call (205) 3444589 or email melissafikes@ clearchannel.com.
“Always...Patsy Cline”: Jan. 24-Feb. 2, 2014. Theatre Moody Radio South 25th Tuscaloosa, the Bean-Brown Anniversary Celebration: Theatre. This is the heartwarming Jan. 16, 7 p.m., First Wesleyan true story of the friendship that Church, Tuscaloosa. This blossomed between country special evening will feature music legend Patsy Cline and one of Moody’s most popular her most devoted fan, Louise speakers Rev. Tony Evans of Seger. To purchase tickets, visit Dallas, along with Christian www.theatretusc.com or call the recording artist Sara Groves Theatre Tuscaloosa Box Office and Paul Nyquist, President of at 391-2277. the Moody Bible Institute. For more information and tickets, Northside Middle School visit www.moodyradiosouth.fm. Beauty Walk: Jan. 24, 6-8 p.m., Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa County High Tuscaloosa. School Beauty Walk: Jan. 18, 7-9 p.m., Bama Theatre, First Baptist Tuscaloosa downtown Tuscaloosa. Women’s Conference: Jan. 24, 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.), The Scottsboro Boys and Jan. 25, 9 a.m. to noon, Trials: The Fred Hiroshige First Baptist Chuch in downtown Photographs: Jan. 19 to Feb. Tuscaloosa. The Conference’s 21. Paul R. Jones Gallery, special guest speaker is Downtown Tuscaloosa. Gallery Carol Kent. Ticket prices: hours are M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. $17. For more information and on the first Friday of each about Carol Kent, visit www. month, noon to 8 p.m. Closed carolkent.org. For tickets: Saturday and Sunday. For more http://www.firsttuscaloosa.org/ information: (205) 345-3038. womensspecialevents or call (205) 345-7554.
Hotel Capstone’s Annual Bridal Show: Jan. 26, 1-4 p.m., Hotel Capstone, 320 Paul W Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa. For more information, call (205) 7523200.
Tuscaloosa YMCA Annual Father Daughter Dinner Date: Feb. 12, 6-9 p.m., Chuck’s Fish, downtown Tuscaloosa. Open to fathers and daughters of all ages, the Father Daughter Dinner Date will include dinner, a Collins-Riverside Middle special gift from Hudson-Poole, School Beauty Walk: Jan. prize giveaways, a personalized 30, 6-8 p.m., Bama Theatre, photo, and dancing. For more downtown Tuscaloosa. information or to sign up, call the downtown YMCA at (205)345Hillcrest High School Beauty 9622 or email waltlarisey@ Walk: Jan. 31, 7-9 p.m., Bama ymcatusc.org. Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. Rockin Red Affair: Feb. 14, Dreams 1st Annual Bridal 6-10 p.m., Bryant Conference Show: Feb. 1, noon to 6 p.m., Center, 240 Paul W Bryant Bryant Conference Center, 240 Drive, Tuscaloosa. Tickets: $25. Paul W Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa. For more information, call (205) For more information, call (205) 348-8600. 348-8600. West Alabama Heart Walk, The Hillcrest Middle School Beauty American Heart Association: Walk: Feb. 1, 6-8 p.m., Bama Feb. 15, 8-11 a.m., The Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Festivities include music, Kentuck Art Night in downtown refreshments, kid zone with toys Northport: Thursday, Feb. 6., and games, health screenings 5-9 p.m. This event is free to the and healthy living information, public. For more information: a dedicated survivor area, www.tuscarts.org/artnight 3-mile walk and much more. For more information, call Bal Masque XXI: Krewe of the (205) 510-1516 or visit www. Druids: Feb. 8, 8-11 p.m., Bama tuscaloosaheartwalk.org. Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. This annual event benefits West Alabama Education and West Alabama Aids Outreach Job Fair: Feb. 26, 1-4 p.m. at the (WAAO). For more information, Belk Activity Center. Admission visit www.kreweofthedruids.org. is free.
Food
January 2014 . Page 18
Red Velvet Oreo Trifle By Elizabeth Branch
Red velvet is one of my all-time favorite cake flavors! It is basically a less-intense version of chocolate cake, so you can pair it with many, many other flavors. It doesn’t always have to be topped with cream cheese frosting, but when in doubt, that is definitely a good choice. But why not switch it up for your next big party? Red Velvet goes well with peppermint, raspberry, white chocolate, and in this case, Oreos. This Red Velvet Trifle is similar to Dirt, a dessert made with alternating layers of crushed Oreos and a cream cheese based pudding. This dessert is made up of layers of red velvet cake, cheesecake filling, and chopped Oreos with red filling. Red Velvet Oreo Trifle: 1 box Red Velvet cake mix (Or your favorite from scratch recipe) 3 eggs 1 cup water 1/4 cup oil 1 3.5 oz Jello cheesecake filling mix 1 1/2 cups milk 1 6oz container of Cool Whip 2 packages of Oreos with seasonal red filling
Photo credit: Beth Branch
Instructions: 1. Prepare red velvet cake mix according to the directions on the box. (I used two round 8 inch pans.) Let the cake cool completely. 2. In a medium-sized bowl, prepare the cheesecake filling according to the directions on the box. Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator to thicken. 3. Chop Oreos into large pieces, but not crumbs. You won’t need all of the second package, probably around half. 4. When the cake layers are cool, cut into one inch squares. 5. The cheesecake filling should be thick enough at this point. Fold in the Cool Whip. 6. In a large clear bowl, create the bottom layer by arranging the pieces of cake from one of the cake layers. Next, spread a half of the cheesecake filling on top of the cake. Sprinkle with half of the chopped Oreos. Repeat with the other cake layer, cheesecake filling, and Oreos. 7. Refrigerate for at least two hours, but overnight is best. Store your trifle in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Community
January 2014 . Page 20
Alabama State Nurses Association: Nurses working hard for our community Abby Grammer Horton, MSN, RN
The Alabama State Nurses Association (ASNA) had a busy 2013, with numerous outreach projects, a major milestone convention and the establishment of a new Leadership Academy. ASNA’s mission is is to foster high standards of nursing, promote the professional and educational advancement of nurses, and promote the welfare of nurses to the end that all people may have better health care. In October, the Alabama State Nurses Association celebrated its 100th Anniversary at our annual ASNA Convention, held at the Renaissance Hotel in Montgomery. On October 10th, we hosted our annual Mabel Lamb CE Day to provide continuing education credit for participants. We also had an awards banquet on the evening of the 10th to honor our award recipients. On October 11th, our House of Delegates convened to discuss resolutions for the upcoming year. That evening, we had a President’s Reception and a birthday party. On the final day of the convention, October 12th, the House of Delegates reconvened and passed several important resolutions that will drive our efforts in 2014. This conference was held in conjunction with the state student nurses convention. ASNA “Summer of Service” and other outreach projects: ASNA, District II, held its first annual “Summer of Service” in 2013. In lieu of our monthly meetings in June and July, the ASNA, District II officers and board of directors made the decision to volunteer in our community. At ASNA, we are committed to providing excellence in nursing and we are striving to have a tangible presence in our community. In June, we purchased, prepared, and served food to more than 200 individuals at the Tuscaloosa Community Soup Bowl. We had approximately 12 volunteers that helped with this service initiative. In July, we assisted at a local health fair that was sponsored by the Industrial/ Druid High Alumni Associated at the McDonald Hughes Center in Tuscaloosa. Approximately 20 volunteers from ASNA helped with this endeavor, including many nursing students from Shelton State Community College. More than a dozen ASNA members also participated in the Tuscaloosa Step-Out for Diabetes Walk in September. We are looking forward to another “Summer of Service” in 2014, and ultimately, we would like to include community service projects throughout the year. We are currently in the planning stages for our next service projects. We hope to partner with the Good Samaritan’s Clinic and other health related community service providers. Other things about ASNA: Leadership development
Fundraisers help support local teen in fight against rare disorder by Laurie Mundy Perrigin Dillon Anderson is a 2013 scholarship graduate of Tuscaloosa Academy, where he played football, a sport he loves, as wide receiver, cornerback and linebacker. The 19-year-old Anderson is now a freshman at the University of Alabama, with plans to become a physical therapist. Now, Anderson is fighting a rare immune deficiency disorder, and everyone in the Tuscaloosa community is rallying behind him. Anderson, the son of Michael and Lana Anderson of Tuscaloosa, is a fighter. When he was just 8 years old, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. After undergoing chemotherapy for a period of months, Anderson went into remission. Then, when he was 10 years old, Anderson fought off bacterial meningitis. Unfortunately for this incredible young man, his biggest fight was yet to come. Two years ago, Dillon Anderson was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, Dock 8 disease, an extremely rare immune deficiency disorder. In 2009, there were only
11 cases in the U.S. In 2013, after a series of bouts with pneumonia, the decision was made that Anderson would need a bone marrow transplant. Fortunately, a match was found, and Dillon was set to have the transplant next month at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham. In an effort to help lend support to the family, Dillon Anderson’s cousin, Julie Cook, started the Team Dillon Facebook page. Not surprisingly, the community immediately rallied around Dillon. Several fundraisers have been held in recent weeks to help offset the family’s ever-mounting medical expenses, including a “Hits for Dillon” benefit softball tournament at Sokol Park, a blood drive and raffle drawing, and a benefit concert and spaghetti supper at Englewood Baptist Church. In addition, Team Dillon t-shirts and crosses are for sale. Join Team Dillon on Facebook (www.facebook.com/pages/TeamDillon) to follow Dillon Anderson’s journey. Donations are also being accepted in Anderson’s name at Alabama One Credit Union. Photos Courtesy of Team Dillon
Our district members are involved on various statewide committees to support the goals of the organization. For example, we have a representative on the ASNA Legislative Committee, which is very active in supporting legislation important to the goals of our association. We have also had members participate in the new ASNA Leadership Academy, a six month leadership development program that the organization started two years ago in order to help develop leadership among its members. ASNA is committed to excellence in nursing. Our top priority is to improve the quality of care for those in our communities. And, we ask that our community join us in supporting these efforts. Please consider joining or donating to ASNA! Northport’s Forest Manor Honored At the 100th Annual ASNA Convention, Forest Manor, in Northport, was selected for the Alabama State Nurses Association Outstanding Health Care Organization Award due to their commitment to excellence in nursing care and to their strong community partnerships. Forest Manor has received positive patient surveys, positive student evaluations and has had positive letters of support from patients’ families. Forest Manor promotes a positive image of nursing by recognizing the nursing staff for their tireless efforts and by supporting them with professional development opportunities. Forest Manor recognizes nurses during National Nurse Week. They host Employee Appreciation days, and they are known for recognizing nursing experience through differential pay grades. They also support nursing personnel by maintaining 24-hour RN coverage, which is two shifts per day and two days a week more than the state requires. Forest Manor provides their employees with in-service training on-site, and incentives are offered for attending off site training, beyond their minimum requirement. Employees are recognized with bonuses and a formal Employee Recognition Program is being initiated. Forest Manor also has a strong relationship with a variety of community partners. Many community groups volunteer at Forest Manor on a regular basis, providing church services, activities, and parties for the residents. Forest Manor has created a culture of caring at their facility and they acknowledge the important role of a nurse in the care of their residents. For more information about joining or donating to the Alabama State Nurses Association (ASNA), contact Abby Horton at ahorton@sheltonstate.edu. For more information about Forest Manor, call administrator Alan Smith at (205) 339-5400. Abby Grammer Horton is the ASNA District II President.
Community
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Page 21 . January 2014
Members of Tuscaloosa’s Capstone Church travel to Uganda
Kathy Cline teaches a bible lesson to children at an orphanage with Pastor Jimmy, the children’s minister there.
November 2013 was a special month for members of Capstone Church. Seven members traveled across the world to Uganda on a mission trip, spending time working with an orphanage near the city of Kasese. The group also visited several schools in the area and taught the Gospel in local churches. While in Uganda, the Capstone Church team delivered “goodie bags” for kids in the orphanage, along with new uniforms and money to help complete the work on their new building. Kathy Cline, a team member on the 2013 Uganda trip, says there will “definitely” be another trip in November of this year, adding, “We would love to go sonner, but it is quite costly, and even more so during the summer.” And what was the most rewarding thing about this mission for Cline? “Getting to share the gospel with so many people, and having so many doors open so that we were able to share, by meeting the people that God placed in our path.” Anyone who has ever been a part of a mission trip will tell you: It is a life-changing experience. This was certainly true for the team from Capstone Church, who will no doubt carry the memories of their remarkable journey with them forever, even as they prepare to return to Uganda later this year.
Capstone Church members in Uganda includeL to R: Amy Smith, Brian Winters, Marlin Caddell, Lynne Stamps, Kathy Cline, Emma Jackson and Chase Winters.
Photos: Marlin Caddell
Patty Owens Northport
Patrick Hamner Tuscaloosa
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Community
January 2014 . Page 22
Habitat for Humanity: Raising the Roof for Audrey
By Ellen Potts
Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa has begun building a very special house. Ms. Audrey Harris has lived her entire life in a house on 16th Street which was built in 1894. By the time she inherited the home in the late 1990s, no bank would loan her money for repairs, because the condition of the home was so deteriorated. When Habitat employees met Ms. Audrey last year, her home was structurally unsound. The roof leaked throughout the house, and one of the rooms had an industrial size trash can to catch the water when it rained. Members of Calvary Baptist Church’s repair ministry began adding tarps to the roof, until the roof became so unstable that no one could walk on it for fear it would collapse.
Ms. Audrey applied for a new Habitat home and was approved. However, even before she was chosen, and in stark contrast to her depressing surroundings, Ms. Audrey’s attitude has been joyful. Her faith is strong and she always believed God would sustain and provide for her. In late September, through the generosity of McAbee Construction, her old home was demolished and the debris carried away. Graduate students in marketing from the University of Alabama’s Culverhouse School of Business heard about Ms. Audrey’s situation and wanted to help. As a group project, they began the “Raise the Roof for Audrey” campaign to help raise down payment assistance for Ms. Audrey, who has a very low income and is disabled from severe arthritis. Their goal is to raise $50,000 to keep Ms. Audrey’s monthly mortgage payments low.
The efforts to build Ms. Audrey a Habitat home have brought together an amazing coalition of people from around the community - politicians, ministers, business people, black, white, young, and old. High Socks for Hope Foundation, the City of Tuscaloosa, Calvary Baptist, Plum Grove Baptist, St. Paul Baptist, Liberty Baptist, First United Methodist, Northport Church of Christ, Alabama Power, the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, and Toulmin Cabinetry are part of a growing list of those supporting this effort. Before receiving her new home, Ms. Audrey will do 250 hours of “sweat equity,” working as a Habitat volunteer. She will receive basic home repair and maintenance education through Habitat’s partnership with Home Depot, and will receive financial literacy education through a partnership with Community
Service Programs of West Alabama. After construction is completed, Ms. Audrey will pay for her home with a 30-year, 0 percent interest mortgage, which will save her about $185,000 over the life of the loan. Her new Habitat home will be built to Energy Star standards, so her monthly power bills will be reduced greatly. Habitat hopes to finish Ms. Audrey’s home in early 2014. To learn more about the “Raise the Roof for Audrey” Campaign or to donate, go to www. RaiseTheRoofForAudrey.com, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @RTR4Audrey. To volunteer, e-mail Jared Patterson, Volunteer Coordinator at Habitat Tuscaloosa, at Jared@HabitatTuscaloosa. org. Ellen Potts is the executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa.
Ms. Audrey meets with the Habitat for Humanity team
Ms. Audrey and Family
Ms. Audrey’s house before demolition. Photo Credit: Heather Poe
Community
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Page 23 . January 2014
Hospice of West Alabama Helps Bereaved Families By Kimberly Gibson, LGSW Volunteer Coordinator, Hospice of West Alabama
“Love and grief are interwoven together. They must be untwined, examined, and reconnected appropriately to recapture the beauty in life,” says Doris Vaughans, Hospice of West Alabama’s Bereavement Counselor. Hospice of West Alabama (HOWA) is proud to be the only local hospice agency with a grief counselor on staff able to offer the services of grief and bereavement counseling to patients and family members as well as to the community at large. Services include group counseling, individual counseling, family counseling, a children’s bereavement camp, and an annual candlelight memorial service. Small group sessions are available each month. Some groups are designed to meet the needs of a specialized population; for example, young widows or grieving parents. Other groups are open for anyone experiencing the loss of a significant person in their lives. Participation in this type of group allows you to spend time and share with those who have experienced similar pain. Individual and Family Counseling sessions can also be scheduled with HOWA’s bereavement counselor. These services are offered to all residents of the community, not just those who had a family member served by Hospice of West Alabama. Additionally, Hospice of West Alabama offers significant bereavement services for the Tuscaloosa community throughout the year. Each October, Hospice of West Alabama hosts Camp Daybreak, a one day bereavement camp for children. The day is filled with a parent’s meeting, therapeutic activities, snacks and lunch, and culminates with a balloon release ceremony. Schools in HOWA’s seven county service area are encouraged to
identify children who may benefit from this camp. Parents are provided with helpful literature regarding children and grief and the camp attendants leave with special goody bags. There is no charge to families to send their child to Camp Daybreak. In November, which is Hospice and Palliative Care Month, Hospice of West Alabama presents its annual End of Life Forum. This is a conference that focuses on many of the aspects of hospice and palliative care, and it is designed to reach the lay person as well as professionals in the field. While topics change from year to year, one speaker is dedicated to the topic of grief. This year, Ms. Vaughans did a fantastic job discussing complicated grief. Then, the first Wednesday in every December, Hospice of West Alabama offers a Candlelight Memorial Service. Forest Lake United Methodist Church graciously hosts HOWA families and community members for this service and reception. This special service allows family and friends to light a candle in memory of their loved one. Pat Taylor, a retired HOWA chaplain who started this tradition, says the Candlelight Memorial Service is “a great place to join with others who grieve, to celebrate the lives of your lost loved ones, and it provides an opportunity for the bereaved to feel less alone on the journey.” The Sunrise Center is home to Hospice of West Alabama’s specialized grief support services. With three bedrooms on the second of its three floors, limited overnight accommodations are also available for families
Photo credit: Courtesy of HOWA of patients receiving care in HOWA’s inpatient facility. The Sunrise Center serves as a resource for information and education regarding grief and loss. The facility is also available as a free meeting place for support groups in the area. Located on the campus of the VA in a beautiful old home, the center is just a brief walk from HOWA’s inpatient facility. Hospice of West Alabama has many end of life and bereavement services available to the West Alabama community. If you have any questions regarding these services, or would like to speak with our bereavement counselor, please call us at (205) 523-0101. It is an honor to serve this area and provide quality end of life care.
Hospice of West Alabama Bereavement Support Groups We cordially invite you to join in one of our Bereavement Support groups this month. Meeting together will give you the opportunity to be with others who have also lost a loved one. Many find it helpful to share their feelings, or just listen as others share. The meeting schedule is as follows: Men’s Coffee Break Wed. Feb. 5th @ 2:00 pm Hospice of West Alabama Community Room 3851 Loop Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 Open Group Tuesday, Feb. 4th @ 10:00 am Greensboro Bible Methodist 2004 South St. Greensboro, AL 36744
Grieving Parents Group Thursday, Feb. 13 @ 10:00 am Hospice of West Alabama Sunrise Center/Building #8 3851 Loop Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Young Widow’s Group 60 & Under Thursday, Feb. 13 5:30 pm Hospice of West Alabama Sunrise Center Building #8 3951 Loop Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Open Group Wed. Feb. 12th @ 2:00 pm Hospice of West Alabama Community Room 3851 Loop Road Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Open Group Wed. Feb. 26th @ 11:00 am Moundville Telephone Co. Conference Room 371 Corr Ave. Moundville, AL 35474
PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE AT 205-523-0101 FOR MORE INFORMATION
Want to see your favorite moments in the pages of Druid City Living? We would love to feature your birthdays, engagements, weddings, anniversaries and more! Please email all relevant details (no more than 250 words), as well as one accompanying photo, to Tuscaloosa Editor Laurie Mundy Perrigin at laurie@druidcitymedia.com. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for space.
Community
January 2014 . Page 24
HSWA: Tuscaloosa’s longest-running animal welfare organization By Betty Freeman
The Humane Society of West Alabama (HSWA) has seen many highs and lows in their over 40 years of existence. And because this organization once ran animal control and the shelter for this area, people still confuse HSWA with the current local pound. HSWA was established in July 1971, when a group of concerned citizens rallied on behalf of the local animals. Animal control at that time was rudimentary and housing of dogs (only) was substandard. After a public meeting, the new Tuscaloosa County Humane Society (TCHS) formed a board of directors and gained nonprofit status. Soon a shelter was built on 35th Street with a 100‑animal capacity and a small pasture for large animals. Later, via a contract with the cities of Tuscaloosa and Northport and Tuscaloosa County, TCHS performed animal control and housed strays while still functioning as a private, 501(c)3 humane society. For over 20 years, despite limited funding, the shelter strived to care properly for the dogs and cats brought there. They were instrumental in developing local animal ordinances to supplement weak state laws. In the 1980s, they encouraged Tuscaloosa and Northport to pass a leash law, so that fewer dogs became automobile casualties and fewer puppies were born from random breeding. As costs and the number of animals admitted increased through the years, governmental monies did not. In late 1993, animal control was transferred to the Tuscaloosa Department of Transportation, the Northport Police Department, and the county sheriff’s department. Then the governing bodies decided to contract out this service to a private individual (as a for-profit enterprise) and created the Metro Shelter as the designated holding facility for animal control. Now strictly a humane society, one of the board’s initial decisions was to become a no‑kill shelter (one of the first in Alabama to do so). Also, a name changed occurred—to the Humane Society of West Alabama. Without government
payments, the organization had to support their animals through fundraisers and donations, since no national humane agency supports local groups on an ongoing basis. Eventually, funds were not sufficient, and the shelter closed in November 1997. For three years, HSWA relied on a voice-mail system to communicate with the public and help animals in any way possible. In 1999, the Photo credit: Betty Freeman Metro Shelter moved to the site of HSWA’s old pasture—creating HSWA dogs playing in their sandbox at the Dog Adoption confusion about the Facility separate roles of the along with fundraisers and donations. two animal agencies. All HSWA cats and dogs are thoroughly vetted and In October 2000, HSWA, along with other local animal spayed or neutered and if no suitable home can be found, groups, opened an adoption room at Pet Supplies “Plus.” the animal remains with them for its lifetime. HSWA This cooperative venture resulted in the rehoming of hundreds of cats and dogs. However, the arrangement was continues as a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization for expensive and time-consuming and thus terminated in the purpose of rescue and adoption. No local government money is received. All calls for animal control pick ups or December 2003. HSWA then invested in a location on Veterans Memorial issues should go to the local government. All stray animals Parkway to house cats, which roam freely in the rooms, are to be taken to Metro Animal Shelter. As always, money rather than being caged. Four years later, a place for dogs and space are ongoing hurdles. As always, the Society is was purchased. There, the animals have access to a large overwhelmed with requests for assistance. But HSWA exercise yard several times a day. Caretakers live on the persists “because they care.” To learn more about HSWA, including how to volunteer, premises. In the meantime, HSWA has been renting a facility for a thrift store, which assures a steady income adopt or donate, visit www.humanesocietyofwa.org.
JDRF Promise to Remember Me Campaign in Alabama By Michelle Crouse
The JDRF (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) enjoys a reputation as one of the most effective advocacy organizations in Washington, D.C. That reputation is a direct result of the personal relationships JDRF families have developed with their members of congress and staff—both in Washington and back in state of Alabama, and in the local district offices. Established in 2000, JDRF’s Promise to Remember Me Campaign is all about building these relationships. Each campaign has been more successful than the last. A Promise meeting is a wonderful opportunity for individuals who live with type 1 diabetes (T1D) to share their stories. Promise meetings take place in local districts and are a way for people living with T1D to use their voice to let their elected officials know they care about funding diabetes research. It is vitally important for Members of Congress—of both political parties, and in both the House of Representatives as well as the Senate— to hear firsthand about the burden of living with T1D. Sharing a personal story of living with T1D can, and does, motivate legislators to action. The 2013 Promise to Remember Me Campaign has been met with great success across the state of Alabama. Meeting participants have been thanking their members of Congress for their support of the Special Diabetes Program and their participation in a letter to House Leadership recognizing the research advances of the SDP. Two very important meetings happened here in Tuscaloosa. In late October, Alabama advocates met with Senator Richard Shelby to thank him for his ongoing support of funding
research in the cure, treatment, and prevention of diabetes as part of the JDRF Promise to Remember Me Campaign. The group was very excited to thank the Senator for adding his signature to a Letter to Senate Leadership in support of the Special Diabetes Program. Meeting participants also thanked Senator Shelby for his continued support of NIH funding at its highest levels. Promise attendees recognized and thanked Senator Shelby for his long time support of our families and our quest to a cure. The Senator said that he was proud to be at the forefront of supporting research for a cure for diabetes. Senator Shelby was presented with a Walk to Cure Diabetes t-shirt. Thank you to Sydney, Hailey, and Monika Swanger, Stacy and Caden James Mitchell, Cathy and Anne Sherman, Kylee and Gabriella Pedrosa, Michelle and Cameron Crouse, Jennifer Land, Chris Majors, Brooke Farmer, Molly Russell, and Alabama Executive Director Aubrey Miller. Early in December, JDRF Families from District 4 meet with Congressman Robert Aderholt to thank him for his long time support of the Special Diabetes Program as part of the Promise to Remember Me Campaign. Meeting participants Kitty and Drew Collins, Mike and Anna Morgan Shelton, Wesley Copeland, and Cameron and Michelle Crouse thanked the Congressman for his ongoing support of research in the cure, treatment, and prevention of diabetes and presented the Congressman with his own Walk to Cure Diabetes t-shirt. 2013 was a great year for the Promise to Remember Me Campaign. JDRF Advocates from across the country met with their elected officials to share their stories of living with T1D. Promise meeting attendees across Alabama have had the
wonderful opportunity to thank every member of the Alabama delegation for signing a circulated Letter to Leadership in support of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP). The SDP provides critical research funding in the cure, treatment, and prevention of T1D. The program has enabled scientists to make significant Alabama JDRF advocates meeting with U.S. advances in cure Senator Richard Shelby. therapies, prevention studies and treatment improvements (including the Artificial Pancreas Project and groundbreaking advances in vision improvement among people with diabetic eye disease), and is an essential component of federal investment in diabetes research. The SDP supports tens of thousands of clinical studies across the country, including right here in Alabama JDRF advocates also met with Alabama Conat UAB. The JDRF gressman Robert Aderholt. Promise meetings are an essential piece in our Photo credit: Michelle Crouse hopes of the SDP renewal, and we look forward to a successful 2014, as well. To learn more about the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the JDRF Promise to Remember Me Campaign, please go to http://promise.jdrf. org
Community
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Page 25 . January 2014
Photo credit: Allison Adams
Out with the old, on with the new By Karis Lamb Wilson
2013 has come and gone with its wise and not so wise choices. In the spirit of starting fresh, let’s talk about 2014 Resolutions - fashion resolutions, that is. It has become apparent that I am never going to be faithful to the gym. Ever. 1. Purge your closet. It is high time that you break up with that skirt you haven’t worn in three years. The sweaters that your great aunt gave you six Christmases ago? It’s time to part ways. Those black slacks that are now faded to a dingy gray? Bye, bye! In order to make room for the new, you must get rid of the old. This will expose gaps in your wardrobe and will allow you to prioritize the items that you need for the New Year. Which leads us right into number two… 2. Prioritize your wardrobe needs. This will cut down on spending entirely too much money on yet another white blouse. Once you have identified your gaps, make a list of the pieces needed to fill the holes. Consequently, you can create a budget that will allow you to purchase items that you really need. 3. Push the envelope. Let 2014 be the year that you step outside of your comfort zone. Dare to be different. If you always wear neutrals, buy a bright colored blouse. If you never wear patterns, try a small polka dot or stripes for visual interest. Experiment with colors that you never thought you would wear. Try a pair of skinny jeans if you always wear boot cut. You can do this. Be bold! 4. Pair something unusual. Along the same lines of pushing that envelope, pairing unusual items offers an exciting take on normal clothes. Take a simple white v-neck t-shirt and pair it with a dressy pencil skirt, fierce pumps, and statement earrings. Wear you favorite ripped up jeans with a structured blazer and your highest heels. No one expects the unexpected.
5. Play with patterns. Let’s take it a step further and mix and match. Stripes and florals, plaid and stripes, leopard and everything… you get the picture. Even if you miss the mark the first, the second, or the 25th time, don’t be afraid to attempt this until you master it. Remember the general road map: stick with the same color palettes. 6. Pinterest will inspire. If you have no idea where to start and are completely overwhelmed, Pinterest will be your lifeline. Imitation is truly the sincerest form of flattery so don’t hesitate to turn to social media for inspiration. Seeing what other people are doing well will motivate you to step up your game and become a best dressed contender. “And the nominees are…..” 7. Plan ahead. Really, plan ahead. If you line up your outfits for the week, you will save yourself a lot of stress and be able to sleep an extra 30 minutes in the morning. The extra sleep alone makes planning worthwhile. Rest a while longer and look vibrant and refreshed every day in your well thought out attire. 8. Phone a friend. When in doubt, ask. If you are not quite sure how you are doing with your resolutions, find an accountability partner who will honestly tell you if you are hitting your fashion targets. Share your resolutions with them and ask them for regular evaluations. Everyone needs feedback whether positive or negative. You can only get better! 9. Polish your signature style. We all long to have our own identity, something that makes us unique and special. Think about your own style and ways you can improve your go-to look. Be the best you in 2014. 10. Purchase something local. Give back to the community that’s given so much to you. Before clicking “order,” try out a few local shops to see if they have something similar. You can build rapport with your retailers and develop relationships with businesses in town. This is ALWAYS a do!
Community
January 2014 . Page 26
Northport Fire Rescue offers winter safety tips
Just because the holidays are behind us doesn’t mean that we’re all in the clear as far as winter fire hazards go. Not at all. Captain Jason Norris of Northport Fire Rescue says it’s critically important that all homeowners know some basic tips to avoid potential disaster. Don’t leave burning candles unattended: One of the biggest fire hazards in homes involves candles. In fact, home candle fires occur with alarming frequency throughout the winter months. An unattended candle is blamed for a blaze in December that seriously damaged a home in the Huntington Meadows neighborhood in Northport. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the home
suffered extensive damage from the blaze. Be safe when cooking indoors: Cooking is one of the biggest causes of winter home fires. Don’t leave food unattended, and try to keep anything that can catch fire away from heat, including loose clothing, paper towels or cooking oil. Be sure to clean the cooking area well spilled food can easily ignite on a hot burner. Be careful with space heaters: Portable heating devices should be turned off when you go to bed or leave the room. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from the space heater, and be sure to inspect and/or replace any damaged cords, broken power outlets or loose
connections. Have a carbon monoxide detector in your home: A majority of homes have a potential source for carbon monoxide, whether it’s a heater or a generator. Be sure to check the batteries twice a year in your CO detector as well. For more information on the Northport Fire Rescue, visit www.facebook.com/NorthportFireRescue or call (205) 333-3020. You can also follow Northport Fire Rescue on Twitter @NorthportFire
ReadBAMARead’s Event at the Tent On November 20 and 21, numerous area children from various elementary schools grabbed their favorite books and spent some quality time reading with some very special guests. The Event at the Tent, sponsored by ReadBAMARead, included a slew of University of Alabama athletes, area teachers, principals and more. Everyone was there with one big purpose in mind: Enjoy a great evening of reading together, while learning about raising funds to purchase new library books for our area elementary libraries. This event is part of ReadBAMARead, a non-profit organization that was formed within weeks of the devastating April 27, 2011, tornado outbreak that not only ripped through the heart of Tuscaloosa and surrounding cities, but also completely devastated local school libraries. The mission of ReadBAMARead is simply to replace more than 280,000 school library books that were destroyed by the tornado. To date, the organization has already donated more than $35,000 in library books to schools, including University Place Elementary, Holt Elementary, Westwood Elementary and Verner Elementary. Dana Duckworth, co-founder of ReadBAMARead and University of Alabama assistant gymnastics coach, says the Event at the Tent was a great success, raising several scholarships for children to run in the Tuscaloosa Children’s Training program. That’s right: Training is underway for youngsters in K-5 to train for the big Tuscaloosa Half Marathon in March. Duckworth says it’s a great way to get kids involved in healthy outdoor activities. “The training program allows families to help their children run 12.1 miles gradually, from now until February 28. Then, they’ll come to the Half Marathon on March 8 and run their last mile on a real race course, and earn a medal like the runners doing the entire course,” Duckworth said. For more information about ReadBAMARead, visit www. readbamaread.com or visit www.facebook. com/ReadBAMARead.
Alabama running back Kenyan Drake had a captive audience.
UA gymnast Kayla Williams enjoys reading some Dr. Seuss with a new friend.
Members of the Alabama softball team were happy to lend their time for ReadBAMARead.
Alabama safety Vinnie Sunseri was all smiles as he read with the kids.
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Page 27 . January 2014
PRIDE of Tuscaloosa:
Community
A few questions for new executive director Derek Osborn
What is PRIDE? PRIDE of Tuscaloosa is the only non-profit agency in Tuscaloosa County devoted to drug and alcohol prevention, education, and awareness. The organization has been in existence for over 30 years serving West Alabama. PRIDE is actually an acronym for Parents Resource Institute for Drug Education.
Can you tell us a little more about your programs and activities? PRIDE has recently been inactive and is currently in the process of rebuilding our organization and our standing in the community. About a year ago, our Board of Directors made a decision to reorganize in an effort to move our agency in another direction. Our goal is to reach more people, to have a greater impact, and to ultimately make Tuscaloosa and the surrounding area a better place to live. We are getting ready to implement a new elementary school/ 3rd grade program entitled “Have a Little PRIDE.” Through years of data, we know that there is a need for a program to introduce children to making healthy lifestyle choices and laying the groundwork for staying drug free. It is an age appropriate program that focuses on alcohol and tobacco, because we know that these are generally the substances from which other bad influences originate. We are currently working on funding to have this program implemented in the Tuscaloosa City and County Schools. I am also interested in having this program in our area private schools and would welcome the opportunity
to talk to them. Additionally, we are preparing a presentation for high school students that is focused on education and having a true understanding of addiction. Rather than telling teens what not to do, our program focuses more on the importance of the crippling effects of addiction, the associated dangers, and taking responsibility for their actions. In my opinion, the least we can do is educate them so that they can make informed decisions when they are faced with the decision to use or not use.
improve the quality of life in our community. Our cause helps the community in a number of hidden ways. It keeps the crime rate down which keeps the cost of courts and jails down for taxpayers. It helps local employers find more qualified and drug-free applicants. It promotes healthier lifestyles which can aid in keeping health care costs down (and we all need that!). Most importantly, it can help save lives and make lives better for our children and grandchildren. We should all be interested in prevention.
What do you hope to accomplish in the Tuscaloosa community in 2014? I want to raise awareness. I realize that sounds cliche, but the fact is, the more people that are aware of the drug and alcohol problem in our community and the drugs that are becoming prevalent in our society, the more we can do as a community to help prevent it. If our organization can raise awareness and take actions that prompt discussion among parents and children, then we are providing a priceless service. I don’t necessarily believe in a “raise awareness” week or month, per se, when it comes to drug and alcohol prevention. Consistency is vital, and community support and donations can help PRIDE provide that.
How can people learn more about PRIDE? The easiest thing to do is “Like” our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/prideoftuscaloosa. We post local and national information there almost daily. You can also find our official website there. We are available for presentations to community and civic organizations, churches, schools, or any type of meeting. The best way to get me is by email: osborn34@ gmail.com You can also contact me about making donations. The more funding we have available, the more programs we can provide and more people we can reach. We are a 501c3 non-profit with a wonderful Board of Directors who oversee our program and how our money is spent. I can guarantee you it will not go to waste!
Why do you love what you do? The short answer is that we are helping people make educated choices about their lives and attempting to
Derek Osborn is originally from and resides in Tuscaloosa. He and his wife, Lynn, have two beautiful daughters.
Tuscaloosa Youth for Christ helps teen moms with Santa Shop
By Romel Gibson, YFC Staff
The Teen Moms Santa Shop was the highlight of Youth For Christ’s Christmas ministry. Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ capped off a tremendous semester of ministry to the youth of Tuscaloosa with its annual Santa Shop for pregnant and parenting teen moms on December 12th. Thirty eight young moms and their families were treated to dinner, Santa, fun games and the opportunity to shop for toys and other baby items for their young children. Each mom received a number of presents that were wrapped, along with diapers and a gift card. “It’s the best Christmas I’ve ever had” one mom said. A parent of a teen mom was in tears as she thanked the YFC staff for providing Christmas gifts for her daughter and her daughter’s baby. Most of the girls Teen Moms ministers to would have little to no Christmas without their assistance. Mike Green, Executive Director of Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ, took a few minutes during the festivities to talk about Christmas. “Jesus came to give us life according to John 10:10. Life to the fullest.” Mr. Green challenged the young moms to seek the “full life” that Jesus offers. Each mom was invited to the Teen Moms weekly Bible study that is held on Wednesday evenings in the Youth For Christ Teen Center. “The Bible study is fun and very conversational,” said Alex Ross Benton, a Teen Moms volunteer. “Girls really enjoy being a part of it.” Teen Moms also provides support groups at four area high schools: Central, Northridge, Bryant and Tuscaloosa County. This year’s Santa Shop was made possible by the generous contributions of the Soroptimost Club. The Soroptimost Club sponsored the event by providing the dinner and most of the toys and decorations. Approximately 20 members of the club volunteered dozens of hours, setting up and hosting the event. “We couldn’t have done it without them,” said Green. “Their investment will enable us to change the lives of many of these girls.” Teen Moms is a core ministry of Youth For Christ. Teen Moms goal for each mom is to help each them be a loving and nurturing parent, complete high school and continue their education, wait until marriage to have their next child and begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. As in all Youth For Christ ministry, the goal is to help teenagers become lifelong followers of Christ. For the past six years, over 95 percent of the girls in Teen Moms have graduated from high school. To learn more about the Youth For Christ/Teen Moms outreach and how you can help change the life of a young mother and her child contact them at 205-752-3361 or go to their website at www.tuscaloosayfc.com.
Photo credit: City of Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox holding series of Town Hall Meetings
Soroptimost Club members wrap gifts for moms and their families.
Juanita McCollum and Shakira Strong help with Santa Shop Photos: Laura J. Green
Tuscaloosa residents who want to discuss plans and concerns with Mayor Walt Maddox will have several opportunities to do just that over the coming weeks and months. City of Tuscaloosa Mayor Walter Maddox will hold a Mayor’s Night Out series of town hall-style district meetings this year. The meetings are designed to give Tuscaloosa residents an opportunity to discuss plans and concerns with the mayor. The first meeting was held for District one on Thursday, January 9, at Oakdale Elementary School. The Mayor’s Night out district meetings will be held on the following dates and locations: District 2: Thursday, Feb. 6 at Central Elementary School District 3: Thursday, Feb. 27 at Verner Elementary School District 4: Thursday, March 13 at Calvary Baptist Church Annex District 5: Thursday, April 3 at Arcadia Elementary School District 6: Thursday, April 17 at Woodland Forest Elementary School District 7: Thursday, May 1 at Skyland Elementary School Each meeting will begin with a meet and greet opportunity from 5:30 to 6 p.m. for citizens to address city and district matters. At 6 p.m., Mayor Maddox will give an overview of the latest happenings throughout the city, focusing on each specific district. A question-and-answer session will then be held from 6:20 to 7 p.m. For more information on the 2014 Mayor’s Night Out town hall meetings, please contact Tuscaloosa 311 at 205248-5311.
Community
January 2014 . Page 28
Photo Credit:Ashley Williams Maughn
Skate For Rachel a big hit on November 22, 2013 By Ashley Williams Maughan
legs and sometimes moving to the arms depending on the to her father, Chris Williams, “this bodes worse for her level of spinal cord involvement. There are approximately recovery.” At this time, Rachel has regained some good Rachel Williams is a special little girl, just ask anyone 1400 new cases reported each year, or between one and trunk strength and some voluntary movement in her legs. who knows her or her family. Rachel was diagnosed with eight per million. The disease can affect individuals of all As for her hands, she has a little Transverse Myelitis in June of this year. Since that time, ages; however, 25 percent of the cases are movement in her left hand and several events have been held to help her family and raise in children. In 75-90 percent of the cases, some useful movement of her awareness for this condition. In November, Jonathan and there is not a recurrence of the condition. right arm. “The road to her Carolyn Lowery coordinated a special event for Rachel. Typically, the cases of TM, along with the recovery is very long and the The event was held at Super Skate and was themed Skate other neuroimmunologic disorders of the healing is very slow. However, for Rachel. This theme goes along with another event, CNS, are considered idiopathic - meaning she is a happy girl, her mind is Stand Up 4 Rachel, a pancake breakfast held in August at there is no clear cause for the inflammation. 100 percent and she is mostly Applebee’s restaurant. At this point, a Stand Up 4 Rachel At this time, it is believed that a person who free of pain, which is a blessing fund was started to help the Williams family with medical develops one of these rare conditions likely because so many people with has a genetic predisposition to autoimmunity expenses incurred from Rachel’s extended hospital stay. this disease struggle with Just one month shy of her second birthday, Rachel and possible environmental factors can constant pain,” said Williams. Williams was hospitalized at Children’s Hospital with arm interact with these genetics to trigger the As with an unexpected and leg weakness. She was diagnosed with Transverse disease. However, no specific genetics event, there have been many Myelitis. This, along with three other conditions (Acute have been completely understood and no medical expenses for Rachel. Disseminated Encephalomyelitis, Optic Neuritis and environmental factors clearly identified. The funds that have been raised In August, when the Stand Up 4 Rachel Neuromyelitis Optica), is an immune-mediated disorder of with Stand Up 4 Rachel, t-shirt the central nervous system (CNS) which is made up of the pancake breakfast was held, purple bracelets sales, the Skate For Rachel brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. The immune system stamped with “Stand Up 4 Rachel” on them Photo Credit: Carolyn Lowery party, and other donations have is the body’s defense against foreign invaders. Typically, were handed out. Many people, including been set aside to help with her the immune system differentiates between a foreign agent Carolyn and Jonathan Lowery, continued wearing them. and a person’s body. Autoimmunity occurs when the body The Lowerys teach 2nd Grade Sunday School at First medical needs. Rachel receives outpatient physical and does not differentiate, or the cells become “confused” and Baptist Church. Eloise, one of Rachel Williams’ three occupational therapy in Birmingham through Children’s mistakenly attack an organ. This is sometimes referred to as sisters, is in their class. One day a child in the class said, Hospital and is receiving other physical therapy here in “inflammation” which happens when immune cells invade “Mr. Lowery, why do you always have that purple bracelet Tuscaloosa that is not covered by insurance. “We are human tissue. When the CNS is affected, varying degrees on? You have it on every Sunday.” Lowery reminded the looking into purchasing a number of different pieces of of damage can occur. The brain and body’s connections class that the bracelet was for their class mentor Eloise medical equipment for Physical Therapy and also for Williams’ sister, Rachel, and how Rachel’s general care,” Williams says. are like insulated electrical wires. the bracelet reminded him daily to During an immune-mediated The Williams family is planning a trip see more pray for her. The Lowerys decided specialists at The Johns Hopkins Transverse Myelitis attack, the insulation around the to get bracelets for the whole class Center in Baltimore, Maryland, which is dedicated to wire (the myelin) or the actual wire so they could all pray for Rachel as the diagnosis, clinical management and research of TM. itself (axon) can be damaged or well as her family. Carolyn Lowery Currently, Rachel Williams is followed by Dr. Ness also referred to as demyelination. then came up with an idea. “I was at Children’s Hospital of Birmingham. Dr. Ness is the When the myelin or axon of a neuron is damaged, it is unable to thinking of a mission project for Project Director of The Center for the Pediatric Onset conduct a signal. The symptoms Sunday School and it hit me…a Demyelinating Diseases (CPODD) which is one of six resulting from the inability of Skate for Rachel party to honor Pediatric MS Centers of Excellence nationwide established conduct appropriate signals are Eloise and her sister Rachel!” by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS). dependent on which axons are Lowery imagined skating for a great CPODD strives toward the achievement of Clinical affected. cause and helping to raise money Excellence, Education and Research. Rachel, along with When the spinal cord is affected for the Stand Up 4 Rachel Fund. her first cousin who suffered from Acute Disseminated is it called Transverse Myelitis, or “The following Sunday, Eloise’s TM. TM is a rare condition in which mother, Melissa ,brought Rachel to Encephalomyelitis or ADEM (demyelination in the brain), injury to the spinal cord can cause visit the class and everyone was so is being followed by Dr. Ness at the CPODD. The hope is weakness, sensory alterations, excited to host the party in Rachel’s that a cure can be found for these types of diseases. Due and autonomic dysfunction (the honor, as well as Eloise’s too. Both to the fact that their Grandmother had Multiple Sclerosis part of the nervous system that their eyes just lit up,” said Lowery. makes it even more special to their families. The Skate for Rachel party, hosted by the 2nd graders control involuntary actions such as Rachel Williams was at of the First Baptist Church Children’s Ministry, was open breathing, digestion and reflexes). Photo Credit:Ashley Williams Children’s Hospital of Alabama to anyone who wanted to support Rachel and the Williams The spinal cord carries motor nerve Maughn in Birmingham for four months. fibers to the limbs and trunk and sensory fibers from the She is now home. Rachel’s case of Transverse Myelitis family. Donations were accepted at the door as admission. body back to the brain. Inflammation within the spinal was labeled by her Pediatric Neurologist, Jayne M. Approximately 125 people were there, however only about cord interrupts these pathways. Symptoms include rapidly Ness, PhD, MD, as hyper acute due to the fact that her 80 braved the skates. And of course, Carolyn and Jonathan progressing muscle weakness or paralysis, beginning in the symptoms developed and advanced so quickly. According Lowery were the first ones out there on the rink!
www.druidcityliving.com
Page 29 . January 2014
Community
Local artist displays stunning artwork on First Friday
On November 1, Grace Aberdean / Habitat Alchemy hosted it’s monthly First Friday, a chance for artists, musicians and everyone who loves the art community in Tuscaloosa to get together and celebrate. Local artist Matt Daugherty’s paintings were a big part of the event. Patrons turned out in droves to enjoy “The Sissy Supply Co: A Catalogue of Imaginary Products from a Bygone Era for the Modern Man.” Daugherty, a University of Alabama graduate, was on hand for a special reception to highlight his work. “We are living in an era in which the traditional role of man in society is changing...I believe that in the era of the ‘metrosexual,’ men are having an identity crisis,” Daugherty explains. Daugherty’s work was on display and for sale at Grace Aberdean Habitat Alchemy. In addition to the Matt Daugherty showcase, First Friday at Grace Aberdeen also featured music by Red Clay Revival, along with snacks and spirits.
Photos: Jamie Cicatiello
Schools
January 2014 . Page 30
Holy Spirit School presents ‘Alice in Wonderland’
Holy Spirit School’s Fine Arts department presented Disney’s rendition of Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland Jr. on November 15 and 16. The production was directed by Liz Berta, with music direction by Anne McClendon and choreography by Kate Berta. A packed house was on hand for opening night. Maggie McGuire played the main character of Alice, with Maria Phelps as Tall Alice and Madalyn Mitchell as Small Alice. Emily Mitchell performed in her thirteenth production performance as Rabbit. Other cast members in Holy Spirit’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. included: Henry Pitts (Dodo), Kate Berta (Doorknob), Zan Jones (lead Caterpillar), Allie Albea (Cardsman), Brooke Bassett (Cardsman/Fish), Thomas Berta (Cardman/Lobster), Elizabeth Boykin (Flower/Tea Party), Ava Cicatiello (Flower/Tea Party), Pearl Davis (Two of Clubs), Eva Farrish (Flower), Cailyn Garrett (Flowers/ Tea Party), Taylor Higdon (Mushroom), Alyssa Higdon (Mushroom), Norah Hope (Caterpillar Body), Maddie Kirkland (Mushroom), Charli Kyser (Flowers/Tea Party), Catherine Kung (Flowers/Tea Party), Avery Lake (Lobster/ Cardsman), Sophie Livaudais (Caterpillar Body), Sarah Martin (Caterpillar Body), Sadie McClendon (Tea Party/ Octopus), Bailey McLaurine (Mushroom), Mindy Mitchell (Flowers/ Tea Party), Sailey Nichols (Lobster/Cardsmen),
Dillan Olvera (Lobster/Cardmen), Anna Robbins (Mushroom), Kate Robbins (Mushroom), Elizabeth Shore (Sea Creature/Cardsmen), Marie McKane (Cheshire Cat 1), Nichole Louw (Cheshire Cat 2), Lisa Maggi (Cheshire Cat 3), Kate Pitts (Tweedle Dee), Anna Pitts (Tweedle Dum), Danika Louw (Marche Hare), Mary Hope (Mad Hatter), Reese Seale (Queen of Hearts), Sarah Williamson (Matilda), Rebecca Melton (Daisy), Olivia Melton (Rose), Madison Dunton (Petunia), Izzy Sullivan (Violet), Audrey Shore (Tea Party), Cecilla Walker (Lobster/Cardmen), Aden Walton (Caterpillar Body), and Berkley Young (Flowers/ Tea Party). Many volunteers helped make this production a great success, including the crew: Donny Mills, Ryan Rainwater, Kiersten Schellhammer, Kat Robertson, Olivia Kapera, Leah Clark, Marian Cook, Blanca Muniz, and Zach Davis. The actors ranged in age from six years old to senior students, and the choreography was impressive. All of the age groups blended together beautifully with the help of stage manager Augusta Elebash. The lighting design/tech direction by Donny Mims and Ryan Rainwater gave dimension and made you forget you were in a school gymnasium. The sets and stages were all
Tuscaloosa City Schools honors area teachers with Apple Awards
Forty area teachers in the Tuscaloosa City Schools system were honored for their hard work and dedication to their students and the community at the second annual Apple Awards on December 16. The event, held at the Tuscaloosa Career & Technology Academy (TCTA), recognizes the outstanding performances of TCS teachers through Photo credit: Lesley Bruinton the Alabama Teacher TCS teachers were honored at the second of the Year and the Jacksonville State Teacher annual Apple Awards on Dec. 16. Elementary; Laren Hammonds, Rock Hall of Fame recognition programs. Congratulations to these TCS Quarry Middle; Amanda Hamm, Skyland Elementary; Leigh Summerlin, Southview teachers! Four area teachers were selected as the Elementary; Capri Frye Day, Southview Tuscaloosa City School system’s Teacher Middle; Ian R. Campbell, Tuscaloosa of the Year: Rock Quarry Elementary’s Career & Technology Academy; Laura Mrs. Alicia Jenne (elementary division) Bechtel, Tuscaloosa Magnet Elementary; and Rock Quarry Middle’s Mrs. Laren Yolanda L. Stockdale, Tuscaloosa Magnet Hammonds (secondary division), Middle; Natalie Keene, University Place Westlawn Middle School’s Mrs. Latonia Elementary; Katie Andoe, University Place Binion-McCoy (middle division) and Middle; Alice Russell, Verner Elementary; Northridge High School’s Mr. John Cain Katherine L. Baxter, Westlawn Middle and (secondary division). All four of these Sherry Harvey Crain, Woodland Forrest teachers will represent the Tuscaloosa City Elementary. The following teachers were selected as Schools in the Alabama Teacher of the Year and the Jacksonville State University school candidates for the Jacksonville State Hall of Fame competitions. Each teacher University Teacher Hall of Fame: Kechel was presented with mementos recognizing R. Watson, Alberta Elementary; Angela their efforts in the two programs, including Boatwright, Arcadia Elementary; Gisela special medallions, along with an acryllic DeLoach, Paul W. Bryant High; Angelia award and door plates to be installed Washington-Nixon, Central Elementary; outside their classroom, recognizing their Lindsey Fausset, Central High; Mike Snider, Eastwood Middle; Joanne Lollar, accomplishment. All 40 of the teachers recognized during Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary; the 2013 Apple Awards got special “TCS” Tiffany Doyle, Northington Elementary; medallions with their name and award on John Cain, Northridge High; Allison the back. They were each given a DVD Papaleo, Oak Hill; Brandis Marshelle Cook, Oakdale Elementary; Alicia Berry copy of the presentation as well. The following teachers were selected as Jenné, Rock Quarry Elementary; Elizabeth school candidates for the Alabama Teacher Hancock, Rock Quarry Middle; Celeste of the Year: Georgette Mills Eatmon, Hankins, Skyland Elementary; Evelyn M. Alberta Elementary; Angela McClinton, Walton, Southview Elementary; Capri Frye Arcadia Elementary; Gisela DeLoach, Paul Day, Southview Middle; Ian R. Campbell, Career & Technology W. Bryant High; Delois Fuller, Central Tuscaloosa Elementary; Myrtis McClellan Walcott, Academy; Pressly Albritton, Tuscaloosa Central High; Sherry Drake, Eastwood Magnet Elementary; Amelia Parker, Middle; Abel Phillips, Martin Luther King, Tuscaloosa Magnet Middle; Rachel White, Jr. Elementary; Tiffany Doyle, Northington University Place Elementary; Katie Andoe, Elementary; Sonia L. Drake, Northridge University Place Middle; Alice Russell, High; Bennie F. Lewis, Oak Hill; Brandis Verner Elementary; Latonia BinionMarshelle Cook, Oakdale Elementary; McCoy, Westlawn Middle and Vicki Alicia Berry Jenné, Rock Quarry Reece, Woodland Forrest Elementary.
Photos by: Allison Adams built for the production. Sets were created by the director and music director, parents who created costumes, friends and the Holy Spirit art department students. Sponsors included Brian Prince Transmissions, Simply Twistin, Boyd’s Hairstyling, Body Works Salon and Boutique, We Service Autos, Legal Shield, Stuart D. Albea Attorney, Norris Radiator & Service Center, Southeaster Spine and Joint Specialist, Tuscaloosa Ear Nose and Throat Center, Violins by Ray Leicht, University of Alabama Community Music School, Allison Adams (painted mushroom set), LOS Construction and Roofing, Paragon Management Group, and Bama Bounders.
We want to hear from you! Be sure to visit our new Druid City Living Facebook page! We’d love to hear your thoughts, ideas, and of course, your feedback. We’re always looking for new story ideas and submissions, and our Facebook page is a great way to interact with you, the readers, on a regular basis!
Schools
January 2014 . Page 32
Happenings
Verner wins annual Turkey Bowl
Students from Verner Elementary and Rock Quarry Elementary schools met on the Northridge High School football field on November 21, for the annual Turkey Bowl. At stake? Bragging rights, of course, and the coveted Turkey Trophy. All proceeds from the tickets sold to the Turkey Bowl benefitted Verner and RQE, and the stands were crowded as students took to the field for the flag football game. When it was all over, Verner Elementary won the 2013 Turkey Bowl, beating Rock Quarry 21-7. Congratulations, Verner, and to everyone who participated in the game!
Photo by: Allison Adams
Tuscaloosa Academy UCA All-American cheerleaders and UCA All-Stars Susanna Jackson, Kalin Burt, Kelsey Biggs and Madeleine Crow led the Thanksgiving Day Parade in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Photo by: Julia Jackson
Schools
www.druidcityliving.com
Page 33 . January 13, 2014
Students at Rock Quarry Elementary School give big to help animal rescue organization By Alicia Jenne’
If a dog is man’s best friend, then certainly the best friend of 50+, large, friendly dogs living at Red Gate Farm and Rescue must be the children of Rock Quarry Elementary. In late October, retired RQES teacher and the school’s current Interventionist, Mary Calhoun, helped steer the school’s SCA toward a worthy service project. The pups at Red Gate Farm Rescue, Inc., owned and managed by Debra Jarrell in the Echola Community, were in need of food and clean bedding to make it through the start of the winter season. Pairing animals and children was a perfect match, and in the spirit of giving back, a service project was born! The SCA gave each classroom at RQES a small dog food bowl for money collection and letters were sent home to bring pocket change to put in the dog food bowls. The project was to last the month of November (technically only 15 school days because the students would be on Fall Break for the week of Thanksgiving) and the students hoped to raise a few hundred dollars to purchase food and bedding for Red Gate Farm. Red Gate Farm Rescue, Inc., located just three miles from the Tuscaloosa/Pickens County line, was established out the great need to serve abandoned, neglected and abused animals here in our area. Pickens
County has no animal control or facility. Red Gate was incorporated and awarded 501 (c) 3 not for profit status on January 23, 2008. It is widely networked all across the country with other animal rescuers, humane societies and shelters. They conduct evaluations, and pull animals from shelters and arrange for transport. The Farm specializes in large breed dogs, particularly hounds, and horses. They also take in special needs animals and excel at long term rehabilitation. “Our primary goal, simply put, is rescue, rehabilitate and rehome,” said Debra Jarrell. To help the students visualize who they were raising money for, Mary Calhoun took pictures of the dogs and gave each class a color photo of “their dog” with its name listed underneath. What really piqued their interest and excitement was when Ms. Calhoun and her husband, retired TCS Skyland Elementary School Principal, Jim Chesnutt, brought their newly adopted dog, Murphy, to the school for a visit. In fact, Murphy’s first stop after leaving Red Gate Farm for his new permanent home with Mary and Jim, was to Rock Quarry Elementary. That afternoon, the letters requesting “Change for a Change” went home and the next day the money started pouring in! Students cleaned out piggy banks, looked under the sofa, raided those cups in the laundry room and looked under the floor mats in the car. One of my own sweet
students, Ethan Lynch, brought “half of his life savings,” one dollar, to give to me as a gift for my birthday. I told him I would be really honored if he put it in our dog food bowl for our adopted dog, Zeb. He was so happy to do so and the three of us; me, Ethan and Zeb were all blessed that day! The bowls started filling up and the goal of $100 looked closer, but no one really knew the running total except Mrs. Gray, the school secretary. To encourage the spirit of giving, and a bit of healthy competition, a spirit stick of sorts was passed from class to class celebrating the highest daily total. Classes were recognized during morning announcements and the spirit stick (a large, decorated rawhide bone) called the “Knick, Knack Paddy Whack, Give a Dog a Bone Award” was the coveted prize of the day! What happened next was somewhat of a miracle. In just 15 short days, the children at RQES bonded with “their” dogs. Change started pouring in. Big bills and checks and more change! Change by the fistfuls, change in bags, change in envelopes and in backpacks. Children started writing letters to “their dogs” and sending them to Ms. Debra at Red Gate Farm. Faculty, staff and students quickly found favorites in the photos posted in each classroom. Some talk of “my dog is cuter than your dog” was overheard in passing in the hallways. Teachers started wondering if they were going to actually need to do more than just “virtually” adopt their class dog. When
Brock Siskey, a student in my kindergarten class wrote, “Dear Zeb, I know it must be hard for you to not have a family…….” It was all I could do to not send for Zeb and I may or may not have begun plotting for a way for him to attend class in room #210 on a daily basis. At the end of the last week of “Change for Change” the RQES student council had an assembly and a check for $1438.06 was presented to Ms. Debra Jarrell and the animals at Red Gate Farm. All but $200 (matching donations) was gathered by young students who saw a need and who knew that their pocket change could immediately change the world of needy animals. The students at Rock Quarry Elementary even put up a “Giving Tree” with handmade dog bone ornaments and Red Gate Farm Rescue’s Christmas wish list to benefit the rescued animals at the farm. Margaret Mead has been credited in saying “Never underestimate the power of a small group of people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” At Rock Quarry Elementary, a small group of young children worked together and did just that for man’s best friend…. one dime at a time. Alicia Jenne’ is a RQES Kindergarten Teacher, a National Board Certified Teacher and is RQES’ 2013 Teacher of the Year.
Rock Quarry student Ben Evans proudly displays his letter to Zeb, one of the Red Gate Farm dogs.
Mary Calhoun and Jim Chesnutt pose with their adopted dog, Murphy, whose Murphy the dog showed his appreciation by giving The RQES “Giving Tree” was put up to first visit was to Rock Quarry Elementary back. benefit animals at Red Gate Farm. School. Photos: Alicia Jenne’
Sports
January 2014 . Page 34
Oaks 9th annual youth hunt a huge success By Allison Adams
has become a tradition for both the Ranch and the Oaks Hunting Club. Members of the club, as well as area landowners and Youth Opening Day for Hunting Season saw seventeen youth from John Croyle’s Big Oak Ranch ringing shots volunteers, pulled together to be sure that each child was able to have a one-on-one hunt. Jack McGee provided through the woods in West the barbecue. Donations Alabama. On November 16, consisted of goodie bags the Oaks Hunting Club in filled with orange hats, Boligee hosted a barbecue t-shirts, scent killer, and lunch, gun safety course, other hunting related items. trapping demonstration, “Every year we work skeet and target shoot, an together to provide the kids afternoon deer hunt and a with memories in the woods, chili dinner before the kids where every kid, even those headed back to share their who are not actual athletes, stories in anticipation of can participate in friendly next year. competition for the first Steve Naish and deer, the largest deer and the Frank McMillan, local first buck,” Wayne Harrell, enforcement officers, trained Alabama Conservation Enforcement Offi- manager for the Oaks, who the youngsters to shoot .22 cers were on hand to teach the kids how to organizes the hunt each rifles in one area, while year, explained. “We buy be safe in the woods. Tommy Atkins, an Elmore a lot of this ourselves but I County Enforcement officer, teared up when a lady I didn’t know who heard about the showed them how to hold the gun and lead a 20 gauge hunt saw me in a local store and handed me a check. It shotgun for a sure shot. The girls and boys, as well as warmed my heart.” their house parents, had a blast shattering clay targets. Michael won two of the categories this year with the In another area of the field, Mike Sievering, Wildlife first deer which was a buck. Isaiah, who also killed one Biologist Supervisor, showed them pelts of area predators last year, killed the biggest buck. Overall, seven deer were and explained how to trap them, right after he scooped a killed by the kids from the Big Oak Ranch. snake from the dirt where he was planting a steel trap. Many of these children have never been in the woods. Until this year, the Ranch residents had to be at least One of the boys, who didn’t kill anything but saw many 13 to participate. This year, kids 10 to 15 years old were deer, said it was the best time of his life and he plans to be allowed to hunt. Each year, the kids look forward to what a hunter for life.
Mike Sievering, Wildlife Biologist Supervisor, teaches the kids to set a steel trap, while finding a snake just beneath the soil. The kids had a briefing before the hunt.
Directors for Big Oak Ranch, Noel Vice and Dave Bolin, were on hand as well. “Years ago, we had a boy who came to us and struggled so much to find his identity wearing black belts with studs. We politely told him, ‘We don’t do that.’ His only identity had been his rebellion. We brought him here one year. He is grown now. We watched him switching from rebellion to everything camo and becoming one of the woodsiest, most down to earth boys we know,” Vice explained. “We look forward to this hunt every year,” Dave Bolin, house dad and volunteer at the Ranch, said. “Christmas is the hardest time of year for the kids. This event allows us to get them out and forget about their situations in God’s environment.” One by one, the boys would come up and refer to their house dad as “dad.” “We don’t ask them to call us that, it just happens over the years. These kids are with us for life. We have many in college and transitional living. We see them every holiday after they leave. They are a part of our family,” Vice, Director and house dad explained about the children in the program. Oaks members even dressed as Storm Troopers, injecting a little Star Wars into the day’s festivities. Plans are already being made for next years hunt. If you would like to be a part of donations, feel free to contact Wayne Harrell at The Oaks Hunting Club at (205) 9660586. We thank the following for donations: Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officers Association, Greene County Farmer’s Federation, Ann Payne, Edgars, Piggly Wiggly, Truman’s BBQ, Eutaw, Greene County Independent, Simmon’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports and Outdoors, New Beginnings Church in Adamsville, and Walter Resources, Coke Division.
Steve Naish, Frank McMillan, Tommy Atkins and Mike Sievering, Wildlife Biologist, taught the kids about gun safety and wildlife. Photo Credit: Allison Adams
CrossFit RTR Athlete of the Month
When Gloria Guthrie moved to Tuscaloosa in August 2013, she started working out at CrossFit RTR. Six months later, her enthusiasm and work ethic serve as an encouragement and an inspiration to everyone who walks through the gym doors. No one complains about the delicious paleo treats she brings into the gym, either! Gloria’s dedication to eating well serves her both personally and professionally. When she’s not at CrossFit RTR, she can usually be found working as the general manager of Zoë’s Kitchen in Bryant-Denny Stadium. Gloria works relentlessly at becoming a better, faster and stronger athlete, and she has done just that. She attends classes consistently,
works hard at every workout, and even stays after class to work on the movements that don’t come as easily to her. Watching Gloria conquer her fears by flipping into a handstand was just as rewarding for everyone in the gym as it was for Gloria herself. All of the athletes at CrossFit RTR benefit from getting to work out next to Gloria; her smile is contagious, as is her positive attitude. We at CrossFit RTR feel so lucky to have Gloria as a part of our gym family and that’s why she was chosen as our Athlete of the Month this January. If you would like to join Gloria on a journey to better health and fitness, email us at CrossFitRTR@gmail.com to get started!
The Oak Hill Mustangs volleyball team won their fifth consecutive Division 3 Special Olympics State Volleyball Championship in December of 2013. Congratulations to the Mustangs and to coach Peter LaCentra! Top row left to right: Joshua Robinson, Jamarcus Mahone, LaPatrick Stokes (Captain) Bottom row left to right: Markevius Gaston, Alex Fergerson, Cameron Tubbs, & David Williams Not pictured: Robert Marshall & Martez Cooper.
Photo credit: Peter LaCentra
Get ready to run with heroes in the Guns & Hoses 5K and Fun Run The Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority is hosting its second annual Guns & Hoses 5K, featuring local firefighters and law enforcement officials to kick off 2014 in grand fashion. Guns & Hoses is set for January 11 at Munny Sokol Park. Money raised will be used to purchase workout equipment for youth workout areas in PARA centers throughout the area. In addition to the 5K race, everyone is also welcome to participate in the one mile Fun Run. All fitness levels are welcome - you don’t need to be an expert runner to take part. Lanita Bostic of PARA says this event is something everyone in the community can get behind. “Let’s support our local heroes, as they run for a good cause. They need our support, in and out of uniform,” Bostic said.
This 5K is for a great cause, but it’s also for bragging rights. In last year’s inaugural race, the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Department was victorious. After the win, former Tuscaloosa County Sheriff Ted Sexton presented Tuscaloosa Police Department Chief Steve Anderson with a TSO hat, which he posed for photos wearing. The Guns & Hoses 5K late registration begins at 7 a.m. and both the 5K and the Fun Run start at 8 a.m. The registration fee is $25 per person for the 5K and $10 for the Fun Run. Anyone interested in registering for the race can do so online at www.tcpara.org, any PARA center or at Wagner’s RunWalk in Midtown Village. For more information, call Lanita Bostic at (205) 7580419 or email at lbostic@tcpara.org.
Photo credit: Lanita Bostic
Sports
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Page 35 . January 2014
Hillcrest Middle School teams take Tuscaloosa County basketball championships
Congratulations go out to Hillcrest Middle School’s 7th grade boys basketball team, the 8th grade boys basketball team and the girls basketball team. All three HMS teams were victorious in the Tuscaloosa County basketball tournament on Saturday, December 14.
HMS 7th graders beat Collins-Riverside Middle School
Photo credit: Julie Wilson
HMS girls team beat Echols Middle School in four overtimes
HMS 8th graders beat American Christian Academy
Photos: Kristi Morrow
Photo credit: Eddie McClinton
Northridge standout signs with UA Northridge High School senior Zack Coker has signed to play baseball for the University of Alabama. Coker, who officially signed on November 15, says he’s very excited about the future. “It’s been my dream since I was six years old to play for Alabama,” Coker said. Coker is one of West Alabama’s premiere baseball players, and he says he’s really looking forward to the upcoming season with the Northridge High School Jaguars. “I expect to be a leader this year.” Coker says choosing Alabama was easy. While he admits several other schools, including Mississippi State and Samford, showed interest in him, he “couldn’t turn down the hometown team.” He says it’s really important to him that his family and friends can all come watch him play in every game. Roll Tide, Zack Coker, Roll Tide.
Fifth Annual Nicholas Wilson Memorial Tashka Trail Run Benefits The Brayden House
Area runners, take note: If you’d like to run for a great cause, consider participating in the Fifth Annual Nicholas Wilson Memorial Tashka Trail Run 50K and 25K on January 18. The 50K/25K race begins at 7 a.m., and a four-mile run will begin at 7:15 a.m. Proceeds from this year’s race, on a trail around Lake Lurleen State Park, benefit The Brayden House, a local non-profit organizaton that helps displaced parents of babies in the NICU units at DCH in Northport and Tuscaloosa. The Brayden House, located near downtown Northport, is in The Brown House Community. Families who have had babies in NICU units know that the stays can be long. Some parents who don’t live in the immediate area need a place to stay, and that’s where The Brayden House
comes in, with free housing and meals for the parents. The Braden House serves these parents with shelter, warm meals, spiritual support and most of all, love. The Nicholas Wilson Memorial Tashka Trail race has been such a huge success each year with over 185 runners from seven different states participating. Race supporter Julie Wilson says this event continutes to grow. “Every year, we continue to get great feedback on our course and our great volunteers,” Wilson said. For more information on the Nicholas Wilson Memorial Tashka trail race, visit www.tashka50k.com. To learn more about The Brayden House, visit www.facebook. com/TheBraydenHouse or www.thebrown-house.org/brayden-house-nicu/