January 2015 - Volume 2, Issue 1 Inexpensive fun in the Druid City
Check out some fun activities in Tuscaloosa that won’t break the bank.
See Page 7
Taste of Tuscaloosa: The Healthy Edition
Plenty of local eateries offer excellent healthy, tasty options to help people stick to weight loss goals.
See Page 22
Inside This Issue About Us City News Opinion Community Health Marketplace Schools Celebrations Sports Calendar Food
2 3 4 6 8 12 13 15 17 19 22
www.facebook.com/ DruidCityLiving
Presorted Standard US Postage Paid Tuscaloosa, AL Permit No. 116
@DruidCityLiving
Tuscaloosa’s feel-good news
Wilder seeks heavyweight title in Las Vegas by Stan J. Griffin
Although he admits that the wait has been frustrating at times as he has continued to robotically pummel opponent after opponent, knocking them all out on the way to a sparkling 32-0 record, Tuscaloosa boxing sensation Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder will soon have the opportunity to fight for his sport’s most coveted prize. Finally. On Jan. 17 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Wilder will fight for the World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight championship, and he says he cannot wait to bring that title back to the Druid City. Wilder will square off against current WBC heavyweight champ Bermane “B-Ware” Stiverne, who has achieved a record of 241-1 with 21 knockouts. Stiverne is a 36-year-old native of Haiti, and the fight against the 29-year-old Wilder will be his first titledefense. The fight will be televised by Showtime. During a recent session at the Skyy Gym in Northport, Wilder said he is extremely anxious and ready for the fight, and also noted that he is in peak physical condition for the upcoming bout. “I am the strongest I have felt in my life, and I am the most fit heavyweight in the world,” he said. “I can put that on paper and I will put my money where my mouth is on that one too. I am just ready, and even when I talk about it I am grinning. I am ready to punish (Stiverne) and hurt him. I am ready to feel the structures and bones in his face in my fist.” Wilder said every fight carries a different array of emotions and strategies, but regardless, he says he’s still the same boxer with the same gifts, regardless of the opponent. “I don’t have to be mad at you to want to whup you,” Wilder noted. “God blessed me with the talents and the speed and power to do this. I’m one of the best, and I know how to turn it on and turn it off. I know how to get into character and get out of character. I don’t have to find things to make me mad. This is what I do. This is about business, and I’m in the hurting business.”
Wilder said he feels the fight is way overdue. But he adds that waiting for this shot due to various negotiations (and waiting for Stiverne’s hand injury to heal) has only made him more excited, now that this defining event in his career is about to finally occur. “I want (a totally healthy Stiverne to battle), and now at this point in time they say his hand is healed 100 percent,” he said. “When I whup him, there are no excuses. We are ready, and I’ve been waiting a long time. I am glad it is here now.” He said he has no nerves going into the Photo: Jeff Perrigin bout. “This is my job and I love to do this,” said Wilder. “I don’t have butterflies and I don’t get nervous. I will be ready to fight definitely. The hardest part about boxing is waiting.” Wilder said he looks forward to exposing a lot of Stiverne’s weaknesses in the fight, and said he definitely anticipates representing Tuscaloosa in style in Las Vegas. “(Serving as an ambassador for his home city) means a lot,” he said. “I’ve been building for this for a long time, and now, here’s my time to put away all the naysayers. Continued on Page 9
Area teachers honored by Nick’s Kids Foundation By Laurie Mundy Perrigin
Nick’s Kids Foundation honored area school teachers during a special luncheon held on Friday, December 12. Nearly two dozen teachers were recognized during the third annual Teacher Excellence Awards Luncheon, held at the Tuscaloosa River Market. Principals of surrounding local schools nominated a teacher to be honored at the Awards Luncheon. All total, 23 teachers were recognized for their dedication and their contribution to the community. The teachers were given $500 gift cards and special plaques. Each teacher was also given a hug of appreciation personally from Terry Saban, a former teacher, who said she truly appreciates everything the teachers do. Among the teachers honored: Dr. Martha Cook, the former executive director of the Rise School at the University of Alabama. Cook was given Nick’s Kids’ first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades of dedication. Her award came in
the form of a “championship” trophy, which I included a crystal football similar to the ones that adorn the University of Alabama football team’s (many) National Championship trophies. Cook retired from the school on December 1. “It could not go to a more deserving person,” said Franny Jones, interim director at Rise. “Martha has put her heart and soul into the program and made it into what it is today. She is going to be truly missed.” Nick Saban surprised attendees with a special appearance to personally thank Dr. Cook for everything she has done. Another highlight of the Nick’s Kids Teacher Excellence Awards was a performance of Christmas songs by The Nick Saban made a surprise appearRise School’s Bell Choir as ance at the event to honor Martha Cook in person. part of the “Christmas around the World” program. Alabama Photos: Britney McComb and Amelia J. Brackin mascot Big Al joined in with an extra set of jingle bells. Continued on Page 9
About Us
Page 2 . Issue 1
In December, the Taylorville Primary School choir performed for a large audience at Downtown Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida, as part of the Disney Performing Arts program. The group of second graders has been performing annually for approximately the past 10 years. As part of the requirements for such a performance, members must audition for the group and then submit performance videos to be considered by Executives at Disney. Mary Kathryn Mathews serves as the director of the choir; she and assistant director Tina Turner handle all fundraising for the group. Kim Smelley serves as the bookkeeper for the group, and Donna Medders handles the arduous task of planning and booking of the trip for the performers and their families.
Photo Of The Month Taylorville Primary School choir performs at Downtown Disney Congratulations to the 2nd Grade choir from TPS!
Meet the Editor
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.
Publisher’s Note
Photo: Derek Osborn
Thank you again to all of our advertisers and readers for allowing us to publish another issue of Druid City Living, Tuscaloosa’s largest community newspaper! We hope you’ll enjoy this issue, which is packed with all sorts of great happenings in our area for everyone in your family. We continue to improve the content of Druid City Living, as well as the quality of the paper itself, in an effort to better serve this community. If you would like to contribute, please contact myself or Laurie Mundy Perrigin, our editor. This paper is about you, the residents of this wonderful community of ours, and we want to feature your organization, schools and businesses. Great things are happening here, and that is what this paper is all about. If you are interested in advertising, please contact myself (205-792-1155) or any of our capable sales staff.
Druid City Living Directory
Publisher: Heath Hendrix Executive Editor: Laurie Mundy Perrigin Director of Sales: Tom Sommerville Sales: Britney McComb Sales: Joshua Mays Sales: Caleb Skelton 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 Facebook: www.facebook.com/druidcityliving Contributors: Mike Green, Sheena Gregg, Stan J. Griffin, Robin Jenkins, Jessie Jones, Chelsea McKenna, Walter Maddox, Laurie Mitchell, Candice Morris, Derrick Osborn, Amy Poore, Marlena Rice, Dr. Rachel Steiner
City News
Page 3 . Issue 1 Dear friends and neighbors, Tuscaloosa is experiencing great growth. With this growth comes challenges, and your City is working to address it. I’ve worked with your City councilors and City staff to not only accommodate this growth, but to plan for more. I’d like to update you with a few of these projects this month, and continue to do so throughout the coming months.
Mayor’s
Minute
10th Avenue Revitalization: This $14 million investment is for infrastructure upgrades (water, sewer, storm water, fiber and road) from 29th Street to Hargrove Road. It is likely 12 to 18 months from going to bids. For now, design is entering its final phases and rights-of-way acquisition should begin in the summer.
Water Line Projects: In the next 24 months, in areas such as Glendale Gardens, Avalon, The Downs, Prince Avenue, Harrison Street and 27th Street, the City will be investing more than $1 million dollars in replacing over 10,000 feet of water lines. This will vastly improve water pressure and fire protection. Resurfacing of City Streets: The City is responsible for local roads, but not state roadways (I-359, I-59/20, McFarland Boulevard, 15th Street, etc.). Currently, City streets are being evaluated and graded. The Council is considering a $2.5 million dollar investment that will likely go to bids in late January. If there are no issues in this process, paving will likely commence in April and May. In addition, within the recovery zone, the City will get a $6 million dollar contract in fall of 2015 which will provide extensive paving. Rice Mine Road Improvements: In late spring 2014, the Council authorized $1 million in traffic improvements for Rice Mine Road (New Watermelon Road to Paul W. Bryant Bridge). The engineering is in final design, and in the near future, the City will begin rights-of-way (ROW) acquisition. Depending on the length of negotiations surrounding ROW, road improvements will go under construction in late spring or summer. In addition, the City is also exploring the possibility of an additional road into Rock Quarry Elementary/Middle Schools. McWrights Ferry Road Improvements: I firmly believe this is one of the top needed road projects in Tuscaloosa. We clearly need another access point across North River. The estimated cost of this project is $55 million, and would have to be a joint State/City project to bring to fruition. The positive news is that the engineering, environmental testing and preliminary design have been funded. In the next year, we plan on working with the governor and local elected leaders to identify funding sources to move this critical project from the drawing board to construction. Once funding is secured, it would likely take 24 additional months to complete ROW acquisition and final design. Due to lack of space, I am unable to touch on every initiative, however, I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to talk with you about what is happening in your City, and discuss avenues in which we can make Tuscaloosa better. Please email me at mayor@tuscaloosa.com or send me a tweet (@WalterMaddox) with any questions or ideas you may have. Sincerely, Walter Maddox
Opinion
Page 4 . Issue 1
The Mommy Chronicles: New Year Resolutions for the Bama Mom by Marlena Rice
Here we are, in a brand new year. No more last-minute Christmas shopping and holiday madness. It’s time to relax! But wait: You just realized your gym membership has expired, after you failed to go for more than 10 months. Good job. “At least I tried,” is what I’ve told myself year after year. But I digress… This year, instead of buying a new gym membership and beating myself up as I stand on my bathroom scale each week, I’ve made three resolutions that will benefit my relationships with the ones that I love the most. And of course, I had to share… Resolution 1: Get a mommy hobby BC (before children), most moms had at least one or two things that we enjoyed doing alone: Curling up with a nice, thick novel (I’m partial to the overtly predictable James Patterson thrillers myself), or wearing slouchy clothes (that usually have a men’s label attached) and taking over the couch/overstuffed armchair/bathtub to enjoy some peace and quiet. Whatever you liked to do BC, resolve to start that hobby again. Even taking just 30 minutes to yourself can relieve stress and ease an overly-worked mind. You’ll be able to handle those chaotic mom-related situations that always crop up with ease. Trust me, your families will appreciate a chill mom. Resolution 2: Treat your husband like a husband again
When my son was first born, I’d call him every pet name under the sun (still do). When I said “muff,” “sweet pea,” or “love,” my husband would always answer, and we’d both laugh when he realized I was talking to the baby. That’s because during the transformation of going from wife to wife and mother, I gradually began giving ALL of my attention to the (now) 19-month-old who can often be found under a table terrorizing the family dog. I encourage moms to take time this year to actively build on the great relationships we have with the men we share our families with. Have a surprise date night every now and again. Do something that you used to do BC. Go see a movie in a theater at least once a month, or enjoy a late dinner out while the kiddos visit with the grandparents. Spending more time with your husband will strengthen your relationship, so the next time you’re having a hard day and trying to do 15 things at once, he might surprise you by pitching in! Resolution 3: Understand that you are not Superwoman Actually, we moms all walk around with capes – men just can’t see them. It’s part of the job. But this year, consider letting things go a bit. Let the laundry pile up. Throw the dishes in the dishwasher, but deal with the pots later. Spend the extra time on yourself and with your family instead. Let’s face it: At the end of the day, the best resolution is to continue to be the best mom that you can be, and when you aren’t worried about your mess of a living room, you’ll be a more relaxed and fun member of the family. Happy New Year!
Joshua M Watkins, esq.
Page 5 . Issue 1
Give Life to Your Story: Putting Others First By Mike Green
Opinion
“I can’t wait until I’m an adult, then I can do whatever I want to do.” “I’m tired of everyone telling me what to do. When I turn 18 nobody is going tell me how to live my life.” These are some of the statements I have recently heard from teenagers. Maybe they sound familiar? So let me ask you, adult to adult: Have you arrived at that point in life where nobody tells you what to do? Are you at the stage where nobody expects or demands anything from you? Have you come to the point where your spouse, boss, friends and family don’t tell you what they need from you on a regular basis? I thought so. But don’t stop reading. One important life lesson that our teens need to learn is that we are all accountable to other people, even as adults. Are we showing our children that true maturity has the ability to submit to authority? How do they hear us talk about our boss? What is our attitude towards the officer who has pulled us over for speeding? How do we behave when we don’t agree with our pastor or other leader? And, most importantly, how do we show them what submitting to God looks like? I find it interesting when parents are appalled at how their disrespectful teen treats them when they have demonstrated the same “nobody is going to tell me what to do” attitude. If we have a problem with authority, why should our teens be any different? I think each of us, as parents, needs to have a hard conversation with ourselves and wrestle with this idea of who has the right to tell us what to do. As a Christian, I believe that God has that full right. And His commands in the Bible paint a clear picture of submission to government, our spiritual leaders and others in authority. Scripture actually goes a step further by saying “do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (Phil 2:3) Wow, that’s saying a lot. When we fully embrace our responsibility to God and others, we are then prepared to show our youth what respect, and even love, truly look like. I have to admit, this one is not easy for me. I seem to constantly think about my rights before I think about what might be good for someone else. And if I can be quite honest, I love ideas like “love one another,” but living it is far more difficult. The right response to a situation is very often not the easy one. Like many things our teens need, most will be learned from us, not through long lectures, but by our demonstrating what maturity looks like. In 2015, I invite you to join me in setting a strong example of putting others first.
Mike Green serves as Executive Director of Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ. He and his wife, Laura, have two adult children. To reach Mike, or to learn more about Youth For Christ, email him at mike@tuscaloosayfc.com.
Contact@DruidCityMedia.com
Community
Page 6 . Issue 1
Getting to Know: Loosa Brews By Laurie Mundy Perrigin Chad Smith and Brad Lee are ringing in 2015 by celebrating their newest Tuscaloosa business, one built around the exploding popularity of craft beer and home brewing in Alabama. Their newly opened Loosa Brews is a retail store that features, among other things, a 63-tap growler station, allowing customers to fill large jugs with fresh draft from Alabama breweries and rare beers from virtually everywhere. Smith, who also owns Alcove International Tavern in downtown Tuscaloosa, sat down with Druid City Living to answer a few questions about Loosa Brews, which taps into what he describes as a “craft beer renaissance” in the area. What motivated you to open Loosa Brews? “Brad Lee and I shared the same interests: to bring a growler and home brew store to Tuscaloosa. Over the past couple of years, such a store still hadn’t entered the local market. Our shared interest finally turned into a desire to create the first one. Loosa offers a unique shopping experience by combining a cozy atmosphere with a beer and wine package store.” How big is the home brewing craze in the Tuscaloosa area? “The home brewing scene is bigger than you might think, even though it only recently became legal in Alabama. Many people have had this hobby for a long time but have just kept it at home, and when they needed supplies, they turned to the internet or drove out of town to find ingredients or equipment. Couple this with the continued growth of craft beer, and it suggests that the hobby of brewing beer could be on the rise in the Tuscaloosa area.” What is the advantage of the “growler jug”? Loosa Brews sells a variety of bottled and canned “The benefits of draft over package are why people are interested in growlers. What you are paying for is the freshest beers, along with wine and home brewing equipbeer you can get to take home. It’s transferred from the brewery into a keg that is not subjected to light and then tapped ment. right into your jug. You also have the opportunity to take home beers from local Alabama breweries that don’t package Photos: Loosa Brews yet. A lot of your smaller craft breweries can only be consumed at their brewery or in restaurants or bars that serve their beers. The growler gives you the ability to package these delicious brews and take them home.”
Loosa Brews, located at 412 20th Avenue (off University Boulevard), is open Tuesdays through Thursdays from noon to 10 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m.
Page 7 . Issue 1
Inexpensive Fun in the Druid City By Candice Morris
Community
The holidays are over, and while our hearts may be full, our pockets certainly aren’t. But just because we might have overspent during the holidays, it certainly does not mean we want to stay in! As you’re catching up on your holiday bills, here are a few fun activities Tuscaloosa offers that won’t break the bank. UA Athletics Although football season is over, sports fans have several options to keep them entertained during the winter. The University of Alabama’s winter sports are just kicking off and, luckily for cashstrapped fans, tickets are extremely reasonable. UA Gymnastics kicked off its season on January 9, and several home meets are on tap in coming weeks. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for youth. You can also check out UA Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Tennis, and Swimming & Diving; these sports offer great fun for a great value. For tickets, be sure visit rolltide.com. Historic Sites and Museums Winter weather often drives us inside where it’s warm, which makes this the perfect season to check out Tuscaloosa’s historic sites and museums like you’ve always meant to do. The Paul Bryant Museum is a fun, inexpensive opportunity to learn more about the Crimson Tide and to keep the season alive. With tickets only $2 for adults and $1 for children ages 6-17, this is one of the best deals for fans. If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum or the Murphy African American Museum and learn more about the shaping of our city. Tuscaloosa also boasts several historic homes that promise an interesting outing. Check out the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion (free admission) or the Battle Friedman House and Gardens, which has a $5 admission fee but is free for children under 12.
Big Al can be seen at UA Athletics events, including gymnastics meets in Coleman Coliseum. Photo: Jeff Perrigin
Wine Tastings, Art Classes and Music Evenings out can certainly add up, but for a less expensive night out, try visiting one of Tuscaloosa’s local wine tastings. Spirits Wine Cellar at the Shops of Lake Tuscaloosa hosts a $5 wine tasting on Thursday evenings, while Carpe Vino offers a $10 tasting on both Thursdays and Fridays. Bringing a homemade snack will help to make both of these tastings even more budget-friendly. For those looking for a more artistic avenue Uptown Art offers discounted $20 Tuesday night classes which is a great way to enjoy an evening out while learning something new. Visit www.uptownart. com/tuscaloosa for more information. The University of Alabama’s School of Music’s winter calendar features several events, such as student recitals and groups, for little to no admission. Check out upcoming events here: events.ua.edu. Recovering financially from the holiday season is no reason to stay in; go out and experience our city and all that it offers. Finding budget-friendly activities for the whole family is much easier than you think! Enjoy!
The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion provides historical fun for no admission cost. Photo: HistoricTuscaloosa.org
Health
Page 8 . Issue 1
New Year’s Resolutions: Writing a worthy new book By Dr. Rachel Steiner New Years includes many things such as watching the ball drop, celebrating with family and friends, confetti, and football games. Many look at New Years as the first blank page of a 365-day book and have good intentions of writing a worthy one. Statistically each January, one in three Americans resolve to better themselves in some way, but only a small group actually follows through. The most common resolutions include: weight loss, quitting smoking, starting an exercise routine, and healthier eating. Here are some tips to help those resolutions happen! 1. Set SMART resolutions Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time-specific 2. Be human: It is okay if you mess up, don’t be so hard on yourself. Just make sure you learn from your mistakes. 3. Have a support system: Tell a friend or family member about your resolution and have them hold you accountable. 4. Little steps to change: Breaking a habit or starting a new one is difficult, so start with small changes that will add up to a big change. The top four resolutions deal with our health, which is so very important. Our health is everything and without it, we have nothing. Have hope, try new things, see the good, challenge yourself, choose to be happy, and become your best you. Happy 2015, and best of luck as you write your new book! Dr. Rachel Steiner is a chiropractic physician at McCracken Family Chiropractic and a certified personal trainer. To reach her, call (205) 345-5035.
Stress: A Good Thing or a Bad Thing? By Dr. Gregory Dykes Is stress a good thing or a bad thing? Most of us would say stress is bad, right? What if I told you stress is a good thing? Now, I know some of you are already rolling your eyes and thinking, “How can stress be a good thing?” Society has created a perception of stress that depicts it negatively, but if we take a step back and examine how stress effects our lives we might just change our mind, and our bodies. According to Kathleen Hall, PhD., a former Wall Street trader turned stress-management and mindful-living maven, “Stress is nothing more than information. It’s neutral, not bad or good. Too many people teach people to just get rid of it. There are so many layers of stress. I teach my people to be curious about it and not think about it as negative. I put all of the things going on in a file in my mind, so I don’t get overwhelmed.” Stress is a natural human reaction. When we perceive a threat, our nervous system responds by releasing a flood of hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare the body for action. Your heart begins to beat faster, there is increased blood flow to your muscles, you begin to breathe faster, your pupils dilate, and you increase focus. This response is preparing us to either fight or flee from the danger at hand. These are all good/normal responses to stress. However, prolonged stress can become chronic unless steps are taken to eliminate the source or effectively manage it. If we do not manage stress properly, we increase our risk of serious health problems like heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, and depression. Kelly McGonigal, PhD., author of The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It, says, “Stress may be bad only if an individual perceives it to be. If someone views the body’s response to stress (faster breathing and heart rate) as being helpful in preparing for action or in coping with a stressor, that person is likely to be less stressed, less anxious and more confident.” Studies have shown individuals who perceive stress positively have a different physical response than those who perceive stress negatively. Instead of their blood vessels constricting when their heart rates went up (a cause of impaired cardiovascular health), as is the norm, the vessels of those who saw their body’s response as helpful stayed relaxed, instead reflecting a state that closely resembled joy and courage. How we respond to stress determines our outcome, positive or negative. There are many ways to manage stress; diet, exercise, social support and professional guidance. JJ Virgin, author and fitness guru, recommends burst exercise to help prepare the body for stress. In her book, The Virgin Diet, she describes burst exercise as “working out in short intense burst of 30 to 60 seconds coupled with 1 to 2 minutes of active recovery, or moving at a low intensity that allows you to catch your breath and lower your heart rate.” Virgin says, “With bursting, you do raise stress hormones, but you raise anabolic building hormones alongside them, counteracting the negative effects of the stress hormones. The short bursts train your body how to handle stress and recover.” Every day we are inundated with stressful events. How we physically respond to stress is determined by how we perceive it. Is stress good or bad? The choice is up to you.
Community
Page 9 . Issue 1 Continued from Front Page, Deontay Wilder:
Even after this fight we’re going to have a lot of naysayers and haters, but that’s all right, because that is what makes the world go round. It’s going to be great, and Tuscaloosa is going to get their very first world champion, born and raised, one who still lives here. It’s going to be great (for the city) and great for me. It’s just the beginning to a bright future.” Wilder’s trainer, Jay Deas, said he is obviously also thrilled that Wilder is finally getting his shot at the heavyweight belt. “I feel great about it and it’s a long time coming,” he said. “I think Deontay has worked extremely hard for it, and it’s not easy to go 32 and 0 with 32 knockouts. These (opponents) are trying to take your head off, and to accomplish what he’s accomplished has been fantastic, but we’re still not where we want to be. This next step is the big step we’ve been waiting on.” Thinking the fight might take place last November, Deas said that training for the fight actually began back in October of 2014. “We actually had to slow him down as not to peak him too early,” Deas said “We’re right on schedule right now, and we’re really ahead of schedule, but I would rather be ahead of schedule and have to slow it down than be behind schedule. We’re right where we want to be.”
Photo: Jeff Perrigin
Continued from Front Page, Nick’s Kids
Everyone who attended the Teacher Excellence Awards Luncheon, including the honored teachers and their family members, enjoyed a lunch provided by Jim and Nick’s and Edgar’s Bakery. Tables were set up for children to write letters to Santa Claus, and to put together special packets of reindeer food to leave out on Christmas Eve. The Nick’s Kids Fund, started by Nick and Terry Saban, is a non-profit organization which supports children, family, teacher and student causes throughout the state of Alabama.
The Rise School’s Bell Choir performed Christmas songs to get everyone at the luncheon in the holiday spirit. Photo: Britney McComb Wayne Burkhalter and grandson John Braxton Barnes were all smiles at the event. Photo: Britney McComb
Nick Saban made a surprise appearance at the event to honor Martha Cook in person. Photo: Britney McComb
Contact@DruidCityMedia.com
23 area teachers were honored at the annual Nick’s Kids Teacher Excellence Awards luncheon. Photo: Amelia J. Brackin
Community
Page 10 . Issue 1
United Way of West Alabama reveals record campaign total By Laurie Mundy Perrigin
United Way of West Alabama (UWWA) has great reason to celebrate. The agency unveiled the 2014 campaign total during a Campaign Celebration at the Paul W. Bryant Museum on December 11, and the results of this year’s fundraising were record-breaking. All total, United Way of West Alabama exceeded its campaign goal, raising more than $3.5 million between the start of the annual campaign drive in August and December 2014. The original goal set for funding the nine-county coverage area was $3.3 million. “We had a very dedicated team this year working hard just to reach our record goal of $3.3 million,” said UWWA President and CEO Jackie Wuska. “It shows the tremendous level of giving and generosity of those in West Alabama that we not only raised that amount, but exceeded this goal by a record margin.” UWWA’s annual campaign raises money to fund its 26 partner agencies that improve education, income stability and health for people in West Alabama counties. Partner agencies include the Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, Temporary Emergency Services, Easter Seals of West Alabama, the Black Warrior Council Boy Scouts of America, the Boys and Girls Clubs of West Alabama, and West Alabama AIDS Outreach. UWWA seeks to continually improve the quality of life for residents of Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa counties by funding effective programs and services throughout these service areas. United Way creates opportunities by focusing on the building blocks for a good life – Education, Income/ Financial Stability, & Health. United Way is helping children and youth achieve their potential through education, helping families become financially stable and independent, improving people’s health, and responding to emergency and disaster needs. For more information about United Way of West Alabama, visit www.uwwa.org.
TOP: UWWA raised more than $3.5 million during the 2014 campaign. ABOVE: Susan Cork, Pam Parker and Mike Reilly enjoyed the celebration. LEFT: Campaign Chairman Eric Heslop celebrates with Brad Springer and Beth Springer. Photos: Julie Mann
New agency seeks to help area children, parents By Laurie Mundy Perrigin
Shaunee Lynch said she felt a calling. The Tuscaloosa mom, who has a master’s degree in non-profit management, wanted to find a way to help area children and their parents. Her idea: Find a way to support at-risk youngsters and their hard-working parents through educational programs in schools and in the community. Earlier this year, Lynch set out to make her dream a reality. She rallied support among Tuscaloosa County’s leaders in business, in politics, and in schools. Last August, Family and Children Education Services (FACES) was born. According to Kids Count data, Alabama ranks 44th in the nation for child well-being. Data is collected in three main areas: education, community resources and economic stability. To accomplish its mission, Lynch said FACES is using three research-based programs proven to address each of these areas. “We’ll have two programs for school-aged children: The Frog Street Program is a Pre-K program focusing on child development, inclusive of emotional and social development components, and Second Step is a research-based program for K-8th grade. It teaches children to have empathy towards one another, along with social life skills, stress management, and more.” In addition, Lynch said FACES will have a Parent Nurturing program for at-risk children and their parents. “We’ll have a committee of ‘surrogate mothers and fathers’ to serve as a support system for FACES may be new, but Shaunee Lynch (center) says she feels blessed. “We are very parents. They will assist parents when they need someone to have fortunate to have so much community support, locally and beyond. I am very grateful.” lunch with their child at school or participate in their child’s activities Photo: Amelia J. Brackin because they aren’t able to.” Lynch added that the committee will be a point of contact when parents are in need of problem solving and additional resources. The overall goal of FACES, according to Lynch, is to provide a holistic approach to services for children and families in the Tuscaloosa community. “Our goal is to increase graduation rates, raise student test scores, increase parental involvement and decrease violent incidences,” Lynch said. “We also hope to remove social stress from children, allowing them to focus on learning, and we want to create opportunities for families to be self-sufficient. And of course, we want to support our great school systems.” FACES will also have a workforce development program designed to train parents on how to write a resume and interview for jobs, along with basic computer skills and career guidance. Since its inception, FACES has garnered financial support from the Tuscaloosa County Commission, and Lynch hopes to receive more much-needed funding to grow. “We still have lots to do, and whether it’s funding help or volunteering, every donation is an investment into our children, our families and our community,” she said. To learn more about FACES, including how to donate and to see a list of the agency’s board members, email Shaunee Lynch at slynch@thefacesofamerica.org.
Community
Page 11 . Issue 1
Women’s Resource Center to host Play, Believe, Achieve event for Tuscaloosa students By Sheena Gregg The Women’s Resource Center at The University of Alabama will be hosting the first annual Play, Believe, Achieve event on Sunday, February 1, to celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and her work to assure equality for women’s sports. NGWSD has evolved into a day to acknowledge past and current sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation, and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports. The event will take place in Coleman Coliseum, with 5th grade girls from local Tuscaloosa elementary schools having the opportunity to be paired with female UA athletes. Participants will have the opportunity to learn athletic skill, showcase the fun of female involvement in sports, and decrease gendered barriers to being active. More information about this free event can be found at wrc.ua.edu or by calling (205) 348-5040.
Bama Art House Winter 2015 series is underway Screenings in the Bama Art House Winter Film Series began on Jan. 6 with the highly acclaimed Richard Linklater film Boyhood, and six additional movies are planned. A program of The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa, the movies represent the organization’s goals to bring new and unique film to the West Alabama area. Screenings will take place at the Bama Theatre on Tuesday nights at 7:30 p.m. with the box office opening at 6:30 p.m. and doors at 6:45 p.m. Discount Punchcard Tickets ($60) will be available at the door prior to screenings and will be good for any 10 Bama Art House films. Single Tickets will be priced at $8 for general admission, $7 for seniors and students, and $6 for Arts Council members. Patrons can visit bamatheatre.org/bamaarthouse to view the list of films, details and accompanying trailers. Bama Art House Winter 2015 Schedule Jan. 13: The Babadook Jan. 20: Citizenfour Jan. 27: Zero Motivation Feb. 3: The Homesman Feb. 10: Listen Up, Philip Feb. 17: TBD Zero Motivation will be sponsored by the Left Hand Soap Company. The mission of the Bama Art House series is to bring current and contemporary independent film to West Alabama, transforming the historic Bama Theatre into a cinematic art house. Call (205) 758-5195 or visit bamatheatre.org for more information. Photo: Zeitgeist Films
Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox holding second series of Town Hall Meetings
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 is holding the second annual Mayor’s Night Out series of town hall-style district meetings in 2015. The first Mayor’s Night Out meeting was held on Jan. 8. Residents of District 1 met at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater’s Mercedes-Benz Club. Other meetings will be held on the following dates and locations: District 2: Thursday, Feb. 5 at Fire Station 1 (1501 Greensboro Avenue) District 3: Thursday, March 5 at the Phelps Center District 4: Thursday, June 4 at Tuscaloosa City Hall Council Chambers District 5: Thursday, July 9 at Fire Station 4 (717 21st Avenue East) District 6: Thursday, July 30 at the McAbee Center District 7: Thursday, Aug. 20 at Holy Spirit Catholic School Each Mayor’s Night Out meeting is from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. Citizens will receive an overview from Mayor Maddox on the latest happenings throughout the City, focusing on each specific district. There will be a question-and-answer session in which City and district matters can be addressed. For more information on the 2015 Mayor’s Night Out town hall meetings, please contact Tuscaloosa 311 at 205-248-5311.
Photo: City of Tuscaloosa
Druid City Living Marketplace
FALL into
Contact Elizabeth Truelove, Independent Distributor dropsoflovealabama@gmail.com • (205) 454-4087 youngliving.com/eliztruelove
Page 13 . Issue 1
It’s No Secret – Students Give Fine Performance
The Holy Spirit Drama Department presented The Secret Garden on November 14 and 15 under the direction of Kelsey Holland. Holland is a social work major at the University of Alabama who has worked on and off stage for Tuscaloosa Children’s Theater for the past 16 years and has competed at the state and international level at thespian competitions as well as performing in several productions in the Tuscaloosa area. For the production at Holy Spirit School, Holland worked with Annie McClendon, the school’s music teacher and sound director, Mitchell Morin, lighting director, and Judy Holland, costume and prop director. Schweta Gamble and Tony Bratina produced scenery for the production using their artistic abilities. Holy Spirit students Leah Clark, John Collins, Mary Grace Gerkin, Sophie Livaudais, Rebecca Melton, Emily Mitchell, Madalyn Mitchell, Sailey Nichols, Dillan Olvera, Maria Phelps, James Prestridge, Kiersten Schellhammer, Crystie Lynn Schaetzle, Isabella Sullivan, Marissa Swindle, Annabelle Upton, and Jodi Wilson portrayed the characters in the 1910 classic tale by Frances Hodgdon Burnett. Zach Davis, Christian Clark, Drew Purdy and Joshua Rodgers participated in the backstage crew. Holy Spirit Catholic School recognizes the fine arts as a means of helping students reach their full potential and offers an array of opportunities in theater, music, visual arts and photography.
Can You Spell That, Please?
There’s no need for spellcheck for these students of Holy Spirit Catholic School - they advanced to the final round of the school’s annual spelling bee competition. Grade level winners included Yasmeen Baumhower, Gus Holt, Davis Sharp, Marie Mewes, Cailyn Garrett, Grace Kang, Alex Halbesleban, Brooke Bassett, Marissa Swindle, Layne Goodbread, Hunter Watkins, Chi Chi Alilonu and Catherine Kung. Catherine Kung from fourth grade placed first and will go on to the County competition, Chi Chi Alilonu, eighth grade, came in second and Cailyn Garrett of fifth grade was third. Photo: Laurie Mitchell
Schools
Photo: Skip Baumhower
Giving Thanks at Holy Spirit
The students, faculty and families of Holy Spirit Catholic School in Tuscaloosa celebrated Thanksgiving a little early on Thursday, November 20, to acknowledge blessings given and to pray for those less fortunate. Non-perishable food items were brought in to be donated to Catholic Social Services for distribution to the needy in the Tuscaloosa community. Sister Princess Mary and the volunteers of Catholic Social Services were in attendance at the campus Mass held at Holy Spirit Church to accept the donations. Three pickup trucks were needed to transport the food items collected. Photo: Skip Baumhower Photography
Schools
Page 14 . Issue 1
Harrison wins cheerleading scholarship
Tuscaloosa Academy’s Hallie Harrison received an AISA Cheerleading scholarship. Celebrating are (L to R): Hallie Harrison, Anna Grace Godoy, Harrison Standeffer, Elizabeth Mosely, Devin Anderson, Lillie Sansing, Trayshon Foster, and MaryGrace Reed.
Tuscaloosa Academy’s McGiffert named Star Senior
Congratulations to Tuscaloosa Academy student Price McGiffert. He was named one of Charter Media’s two Tuscaloosa Area Star Seniors. (L to R): TA Headmaster Dr. Isaac Espy, Price McGiffert and Upper School Dean Dr. Barry Peterson.
Tuscaloosa Academy’s Suzy Gatewood honored with Teachers Excellence Award Tuscaloosa Academy teacher Suzy Gatewood was one of the 23 area teachers honored at the Nick’s Kids Foundation’s 3rd Annual Teachers Excellence Awards Luncheon in December. TA choose Mrs. Gatewood because she was instrumental in starting an iPad initiative in the Lower School at Tuscaloosa Academy. Gatewood was given one iPad Mini a year ago, and told to see what she could do with it in the classroom. After many hours of investigating, trying out new apps, visiting schools who are already using iPads in the classroom, and going to technology workshops to learn as much as she could, Gatewood has successfully enhanced her teaching and the student learning in the classroom. The students are learning more through a hands on experience with technology. Photos: Chelsea McKenna
Celebrations
Page 15 . Issue 1
Junior League’s annual “Breakfast With Santa” event a big hit By Jessie Jones
The Junior League of Tuscaloosa hosted its annual Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 13. All total, the Junior League sold 650 tickets to three seatings, and donated another 50 tickets to community members and organizations. For the first time, Breakfast with Santa was hosted at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, with catering by A Cutting Edge. Kelly Lambert Photography provided digital photos of all children with Santa Claus to those who attended. With nine local vendors and separate raffles at each seating thanks to local businesses, the 2014 Breakfast with Santa was a hit, said Jaime Conger, the Junior League of Tuscaloosa Breakfast with Santa Chair. “Our committee was thrilled to see everyone come out for Breakfast with Santa this year at our new venue,” Conger said. “With the help of our generous sponsors, donors and patrons, this event will help fund the mission of the Junior League of Tuscaloosa to promote volunteerism, develop the potential of women and improving our community through the effective action and leadership of train volunteers.” To learn more about the Junior League of Tuscaloosa, please visit jltuscaloosa.org. Stay tuned for “Dinner at Your Door” in late March, a dinner-delivery fundraiser. This spring, the Junior League will also begin the process of accepting new members for the 2015-2015 year. Any interested women should email juniorleagueoftu@bellsouth.net with their name, address and phone number to learn more about the Junior League of Tuscaloosa. Photo: Junior League of Tuscaloosa
NorthRiver tennis tournament for Turning Point a success
On Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2, NorthRiver Yacht Club’s Tennis Department hosted a Ladies Double tournament benefiting Turning Point, a local charitable organization that serves victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Turning Point has been serving the Tuscaloosa community since 1979. The tournament raised over $2400 for Turning Point with 44 participants. Winners included: 6.0 winners, Carly Farish/ Mandy Lane; 7.0A winners, Sarah Baxter/Madelene Hollingsworth; and 7.0B winners Becci Hauser/Lorna Jones. NorthRiver Yacht Club member Mike Donnelly organized and served the chairman of the event. This was the first year the tournament was hosted, but both NorthRiver Yacht Club and Turning Point plan to make the event an annual occurrence. NorthRiver Yacht Club’s Director of Tennis Gary Henderson says hopes are high that another tournament can be held later this year. “The tournament was an amazing success, one we will look forward to in 2015,” Henderson said. “We would like to see the 2015 tournament held in the spring and double the amount of participants.” Photo: Paula Mount, NorthRiver Yacht Club Pictured (L to R): Gary Henderson, NorthRiver Yacht Club Tennis Director, Mike Donnelly, NorthRiver Yacht Club member and Tournament Coordinator, Turning Point Executive Director Emily Kelly, and Mike Ryan, NorthRiver Yacht Club General Manager.
Celebrations
Page 16 . Issue 1
Gospel singer CeCe Winans headlining UA’s Realizing the Dream Concert Gospel singer CeCe Winans is the featured artist for the 2015 Realizing the Dream Concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Moody Music Concert Hall on The University of Alabama campus. Winans’ appearance caps off the 26th annual weekend of recognition for the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fox News political analyst Juan Williams will deliver the annual Legacy Banquet lecture at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16 at the Hotel Capstone. Winans is one of the best-selling female gospel artists in history. She has won 10 Grammy Awards and sold more than 12 million records. She will be welcomed and introduced by students from UA, Stillman College and Shelton State Community College. Williams is an Emmy-winning journalist whose career spreads across many platforms, including stints with The Washington Post and National Public Radio prior to joining Fox News in 1997. The Legacy Banquet honors several deserving individuals: Artist and activist Dr. Arthur L. Bacon receives the Mountaintop Award; former Tuscaloosa police chief Ken W. Swindle receives the Call to Conscience Award; and the Horizon Award goes to UA student Tyler Merriweather. Legacy Banquet tickets are $25 for individuals or $200 for a table of 10. Dress is Photo: CeCeWinans.com semiformal. Concert tickets are $15. Unity Day Unity Day activities begin at 7 a.m. on Monday, Jan, 19, with a Unity Breakfast at Hay College Center Dining Hall on the Stillman College campus. The Rev. Tyshawn Gardner, pastor of Plum Grove Baptist Church, will be the speaker. The Unity Day march begins at noon at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, and the annual Mass Rally begins at the First African Baptist Church, on 2621 Stillman Road. The speaker will be the Rev. Jeffrey Cammon, pastor of St. Peter AME Zion Church. Sponsors for the Realizing the Dream events are Shelton State Community College, Stillman College, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and The University of Alabama. For more informatio n about Realizing the Dream activities and events, call (205) 348-7111 or email community.affairs@ua.edu.
Nominations requested for the 2015 Druid Arts Awards The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa will honor artists and patrons of the arts in Tuscaloosa County at the 21st Druid Arts Awards on Thursday, March 12 at the Bama Theatre. A reception honoring the winners and their families will be held at the theatre’s Greensboro Room at 6:00 p.m. with the awards ceremony at 7 p.m. The deadline for nominations is Friday, January 23, with a deadline for tickets on Monday, March 2. Nominations for volunteer, artist, and educator (Tuscaloosa County only) will be accepted in each of the categories of Music, Visual Arts, Dance, Theatre and Literature. Nominations will also be taken for Patron of the Arts, Corporate Sponsor of the Year, Special Awards and Home Grown Artist. The Home Grown Artist award was established in 2009. This will be awarded to an individual from Tuscaloosa County who has received recognition in their area of specialty on the regional, national or international level by their professional peer groups. The nominee must be a native of Tuscaloosa County and have received his/her primary and secondary education in one of the local public or private school systems. Any citizen of Tuscaloosa County is eligible to submit nominations. Email nominations must be received electronically or hard copies postmarked by the deadline on January 23, at 5 p.m. The subject heading for email nominations should state “Druid Arts Awards Nomination” and sent to director@tuscarts.org. Hard copy nominations should be mailed to The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa, P.O. Box 1117, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35403. Nomination forms, criteria and a list of prior winners are available on line at tuscarts.org/druidartsawards.
Contact@DruidCityMedia.com
Page 17 . Issue 1
Sports
A memorable season for the Crimson Tide By Stan J. Griffin
There is no doubt that it may take a little time for University of Alabama football fans to fully recover from the recent season-ending Sugar Bowl loss to Ohio State. But once the pain of the 42-35 loss to the Buckeyes in one of the inaugural College Football Playoff semifinals subsides, Crimson Tide supporters will have plenty of very good things to be proud about relative to the 2014 season. Playing in the toughest division of the most powerful conference in college football, the Crimson Tide won 12 games, was No. 1 for a good portion of the season, won the highest scoring Iron Bowl ever, captured its 24th Southeastern Conference championship, and qualified for the historic first-ever College Football Playoff as the No. 1 seed. Under the direction of offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin, the Crimson Tide (12-2) shattered numerous UA offensive yardage and scoring records, and junior wide receiver Amari Cooper also shattered numerous school and SEC receiving records while finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting and winning the Fred Biletnikoff Award. The 2014 Tide team produced five first-team All-Americans, and Nick Saban won the Bobby Dodd Award as coach of the year. Fifth-year quarterback Blake Sims also became perhaps one of college football’s best stories of 2014. As a player who had been shifted from position to position at the Capstone, and really was an afterthought at the quarterback position entering the season, Sims became one of the nation’s most efficient and dangerous dual-threat signal-callers under the tutelage of Kiffin. Freshman punter JK Scott also proved to be a tremendous weapon for the Crimson Tide. Scott was a finalist for the Ray Guy Award as the best punter in college football. As Saban also noted following the Sugar Bowl, the 2014 Crimson Tide team kept Alabama football at or near the forefront of the national college football scene all season, in what was supposedly a rebuilding year for the program in the eyes of many observers. An inconsistent effort, both offensively and defensively, doomed the No. 1 Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl, as after the Crimson Tide jumped to a 21-6 first-half lead over Urban Meyer’s No. 4 Buckeyes, Ohio State responded by scoring 28-consecutive points. Alabama could never fully rally due to repeated mistakes on both sides of the ball. It was very much a different Crimson Tide team than the one that rolled over Missouri 42-13 in its preceding game to capture yet another SEC title in Atlanta. In that game, Blake Sims completed 23 of 27 passes to gain Most Valuable Player honors while leading a Tide attack that was balanced and efficient against the Tigers. It was also a very solid performance defensively for the Tide, despite allowing a few long Missouri aerial strikes. The Crimson Tide will likely enter the 2015 season as a preseason Top 10 team, but will have to replace senior leaders such as Sims, and likely also a few underclassmen such as Cooper and tailback T.J. Yeldon. Photo: UA Athletic Communications Staff
Sports
Page 18 . Issue 1
Loper to head new soccer programs for TA By Stan J. Griffin
An exciting new era is about to begin for Tuscaloosa Academy athletics. It was recently announced that the Knights will once again be playing competitive soccer, and Savannah, Ga. native Brian Loper, also the director of student ministries at First United Methodist Church, was selected to lead the boys and girls programs. University of Georgia graduate Kyle Collins, who has played the sport since the age of 5, will be assisting Loper with the programs. The season will officially begin in February for TA, and Loper said he is excited the return of soccer to the school after a bit of a hiatus with the sport. “We’re really excited to get this program off and running,” said Loper, who played the sport himself at Division II Young Harris. “I think this is just a great environment for soccer to really grow. I think we’ll have a lot of student excitement. I am just eager for us to be able to throw a ball out on the field and get going and see what we have.” Loper, who has coached at various schools, as well as with club and all-star programs affiliated with the sport, said he has been pleased with the interest that the students have shown thus far relative to the return of soccer. “We think we’re going to have about 17 or 18 girls for the varsity team, and we’re looking at about the same for the varsity boys team,” he said. “We are really excited about that.” He said he is pleased with the fact that the return of the internationally-beloved sport to the school is generally coinciding with the drastic and continuing overall growth regarding it in Tuscaloosa. “The World Cup really drew a lot of interest to soccer, and we moved here a couple of years ago from the Atlanta area, where soccer is really huge,” said Loper, who still is in the process of organizing a full coaching roster. “We got here and football is obviously king (in Tuscaloosa) and always will be, but I think the World Cup brought a lot of attention to soccer and it generated a whole lot of interest that has trickled down to younger kids who have gone out (for the program). I think us being able to start a program at TA is really going to draw a lot of interest from students who may not even be here yet.” Loper said he isn’t familiar enough yet with the teams who will share the same region as the Knights to be able to forecast how competitive TA may be during the initial season, but he added that the school has a host of good athletes, which is always a promising place to start. “I certainly think that it is a process that we’re going to be playing out,” he said. “So it’s going to grow, and I think we’ll get better each year, and I know we will as soccer grows here at TA. I think we’re going to put a competitive team on the field, and we’ll play hard.” Photo: Stan Griffin
Retired dancing queen seeks passionate helper for tasks around the house. It takes a special person to become a Home Instead CAREGiver,SM not a special degree. Working with seniors in their homes can be challenging but, at the same time, tremendously rewarding. Enjoy training, support, flexible shifts that fit your life, and a job that nurtures the soul. • No medical degree necessary • Training and support provided • Flexible shifts Find out more at HomeInstead.com/CAREGiver. HomeInstead.com/746 205.764.0387 Each Home Instead Senior Care® office is independently owned and operated. © 2014 Home Instead, Inc.
Calendar
Page 19 . Issue 1
Druid City Living
Calendar of Events Realizing the Dream Concert: Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m. Moody Music Concert Hall, University of Alabama campus. Gospel singer CeCe Winans is the featured artist for the 2015 Realizing the Dream Concert, part of the 26th annual weekend of recognition for the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For more information about Realizing the Dream activities and events, call (205) 348-7111 or email community.affairs@ua.edu. Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents The Page to Stage: Kate Campbell & Dr. Wayne Flynt: Jan. 17, 2 p.m. Bean-Brown Theatre, Tuscaloosa. This special event is a collaborative exchange of songs, stories, and readings between acclaimed singersongwriter Kate Campbell and awardwinning author/historian Dr. Wayne Flynt. To purchase tickets, visit www.theatretusc. com or call the Theatre Tuscaloosa Box Office at (205) 391-2277. Bama Art House Winter 2015: Ongoing, Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa presents this series of film screenings, which take place each Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. through Feb. 17. For more information, call (205) 758-5195 or visit bamatheatre.org.
The Black Jacket Symphony performing Led Zeppelin IV: Jan. 24, 8 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets: $25-30. For more information, visit www.bamatheatre.org.
Hotel Capstone and iHeart Radio Annual Bridal Show: Jan. 25, 1 p.m.4 p.m. Hotel Capstone, Tuscaloosa. For more information, visit the official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ HotelCapstoneBridal or call Laura Lee (205) 242-8513 or (205) 344-4589. Free Estate Planning and Asset Protection Workshop, Red Oak Legal, PC: Jan. 27, 2 p.m.-4 p.m. 500 Towncenter Blvd., Suite B, Tuscaloosa. Presented by local attorney G. Stephen Wiggins. Covers wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living wills, probate administration, protecting assets from creditors, bankruptcy, divorce and remarriage, nursing homes, long-term care and Medicaid qualification. Call Ann F. Smith at (205) 764-1262 or visit www. redoaklegalpc.com to register. Miles from Tomorrowland Premiere Party: Jan. 31, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa (C.H.O.M.), downtown Tuscaloosa. For more information: (205) 349-4235 and www.chomonline.org.
Mayor’s Night Out Town Hall Meeting for District 2: Feb. 5, 5:15 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Fire Station 1, 1501 Greensboro Avenue, Tuscaloosa. For more information on this and other town hall meetings planned throughout the year, contact Tuscaloosa 311 at (205) 248-5311.
Kentuck Art Night in downtown Northport: Thursday, Feb. 5, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This event is free to the public. For more information: www.tuscarts.org/ artnight. Mardi Gras Jazz Brunch: Feb. 7, 10 a.m. Battle-Friedman House, Tuscaloosa. This event, hosted by the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society, features a delicious brunch and live jazz music. Funds from this event will go toward repairs to the Battle-Friedman house. Society members $5; Non Members $10; Children 12 and under $2. For more information, call (205) 758-2238 or visit www.historictuscaloosa. org. Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra presents “My Romance”: Feb. 9, 7 p.m. Moody Hall, University of Alabama School of Music, Tuscaloosa. Let the TSO sweep you and your valentine off your feet. With romantic classics from TV, film, and stage, this special concert will whisk your imagination away. For more information,
including tickets, call (205) 752-5515 or visit www.tsoonline.org.
Bal Masque XXII, Mystic Krewe of the Druids: Feb. 14, 8 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. This annual event benefits West Alabama Aids Outreach (WAAO). For more information, visit www. kreweofthedruids.org or email info@ kreweofthedruids.org. Book Signing, Writers Wanted: Feb. 17, 4-6:00 p.m. Shelton State Community College Atrium. The Shelton State Alumni Association is hosting a book signing for local writers with connections to the Tuscaloosa area. Interested authors should contact Ronda Shirley at (205) 391-2252 or email rshirley@sheltonstate. edu. Bear Creek Manor Bridal Expo: Feb. 22, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. 301 Bear Creek Cutoff Road, Tuscaloosa. Tour the venue and meet with wedding coordinators, caterers, florists, photographers, DJs, lighting experts, dress shops and more. RSVP with name, telephone number and number of guests attending to bmi.weddings@gmail.com or call (205) 210-5300 for free entry ($5 at the door).
West Alabama Chamber of Commerce Happenings term Care. A ribbon cutting was held recently at the office at 1030 Fairfax Park, Ste. C. Call (205) 523-4863 for more details.
Druid City Vital Care Opens: Druid City Vital Care is open for business in Tuscaloosa! This home care pharmacy team strives to exceed expectations. Services offered are home IV (infusion) services and medication management for Independent Living, Assisted Living and Long
Massaged Life Academy & Wellness Opens: The Massaged Life & Wellness Academy is a new school in
Contact@DruidCityMedia.com
town offering a very strong Therapeutic Massage Program including Massage Theory & Practice, Kinesiology, Yoga, Eastern Modalities, Clinical/Medical Massage, Spa Techniques and more. The spa it houses offers massages by professional and student practitioners. The Academy is located at 3518 Loop Rd., Ste. 1 in Tuscaloosa. Learn more at www. mlwacademy.com/about-us.html or call (205)248-7416. Home Fit Consulting: Home Fit Consulting is Alabama’s largest in-home personal training team, proudly serving Tuscaloosa and the surrounding communities.
It specializes in training medical and business professionals, who are chronically busy with no time to make it to the gym. HomeFit provides you with the personal attention of a Fitness Consultant in the comfort of your own home or office. Visit www.homefitconsulting. com to learn more.
Photos: The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama
Page 21 . Issue 1
Celebrations
New agency seeks to help area children, parents By Laurie Mundy Perrigin
Teachers who received funding for their classrooms are (L to R): Alison Wright, Kathy Perkins, Christina Ballenger, Misty Turner, Lisa Pradat, Dana Skinner, Chris Hewett, NaTresha Crawford and Felecia Simmons. Congratulations!
The Community Foundation of West Alabama supports local education by awarding scholarships, teacher grants and multiple grants to higher education each year. Recently, nine local teachers received grants to help fund their classrooms from the CFWA. The Mission of The Community Foundation of West Alabama is to promote charitable giving for present and future generations.
Photo: Glenn Taylor
Food
Page 22 . Issue 1
Taste of Tuscaloosa: The Healthy Edition By Sheena Gregg
Healthy eating and weight loss tend to be at the top of the list for most popular New Year’s resolutions. However, with all the delicious eateries in Tuscaloosa, dining out can be a common pitfall for those with weight loss goals. Thankfully, there are several places in Tuscaloosa that provide a variety of healthy and delicious options to keep you on track this year.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Café Located in Midtown Village, Taziki’s serves up a variety of healthy options for lunch and dinner. Gorgeous salads, fresh grilled gyros, and vegetarian plates are offered among the numerous menu choices. Healthy sides including basmati rice, roasted new potatoes, pasta salad, fresh cut fruit, and tomato cucumber salad are available to accommodate any dietary restriction you may have. Taziki’s “feast” entrees keep you full and satisfied with a generous helping of salad, grilled protein of choice, and nicely portion controlled rice or potatoes for a balanced plate. For those feeding their family of four, whole baked chicken dinners are offered with an option of adding fresh grilled vegetables. Taziki’s opens at 11 a.m. daily. For more information, visit www.tazikiscafe. com.
Kitchen provides dishes that satisfy while keeping your health goals in check. Chicken and salmon kabob options feature a variety of grilled vegetables with your protein of choice. The popular protein power plate provides flat-grilled chicken with caramelized onions over a delicious olive oil based slaw
with just the right amount of feta cheese. If you’re going vegetarian this year, the new quinoa salad is sure to delight your taste buds with the mix of quinoa, tomatoes, broccoli, green onions, and feta on a bed of greens with a refreshing lemon vinaigrette. If you’re looking for something warm, consider a bowl of chicken and orzo soup paired with a fresh fruit cup or side Greek salad. Zoe’s is open at 10 a.m. daily, with locations in both Tuscaloosa and Northport. For more information, visit www.zoeskitchen.com.
Maki Fresh New to the Tuscaloosa dining scene is Maki Fresh, located in the Indian Hills shopping area. Signature sushi and rice bowls can be customized with white or brown rice to complement the fresh seafood and vegetables. Vegan and vegetarian requests can be accommodated through several dishes, including Maki’s famous Blazer roll packed with sundried tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, carrots, asparagus, and avocado. Aside from sushi, diners can look forward to the healthy and delicious grilled salmon salad with oranges, goat cheese, and yellow bell peppers paired with a lemon thyme vinaigrette or sesame ginger dressing. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, the nicely portion controlled burger, salmon, or chicken sliders can satisfy your craving without making you feel guilty. Maki Fresh is open at 11 a.m. daily. For more information, visit www.makifresh.com. Zoe’s Kitchen With a philosophy of simple, tasty, and fresh, it’s no surprise that Zoe’s
Sheena Gregg is a registered dietitian and local “Filipino Foodie.” Follow her adventures at www.afilipinofoodie.com Photos: Sheena Gregg and Arden Photography
Page 23 . Issue 1
Delicious new dishes to try in the New Year By Amy Poore
Food
It’s a new year, and for many of us, that means finding a whole new crop of delectable recipes to satisfy even the pickiest of foodies. This month, I’ve got two: One is a fast and easy entrée that would be great for these cold January nights, and the other is a dip that will be great for Super Bowl parties.
Creamy Pork Chops and Mushrooms
• 1 cup unseasoned long-grain and wild rice blend • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter • 4 (6-ounce) bone-in center-cut loin pork chops • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary • 12 ounces fresh cremini mushrooms, cut into 1/2-inchthick slices (or any mushroom blend that is not white button mushrooms) • 1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar • 1 1/2 cups chicken stock • 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted • 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (I used dried because I had it) • 2 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream
Cook rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. While rice cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle pork chops with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add chops to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Transfer to a plate. Add rosemary, mushrooms, and onion to pan; cook 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle mushrooms with flour; toss to coat. Stir in vinegar and chicken stock, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Return pork chops and any accumulated juices to pan. Cover and simmer 10 minutes or until desired degree of doneness. Stir almonds, parsley, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper into rice. Arrange pork chops on a serving platter. Simmer sauce, uncovered, 2 additional ¬minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in sour cream. Serve pork chops with mushroom sauce and rice.
Kickin’ Baked Artichoke Dip • 2 (21 oz.) jars marinated artichoke hearts • 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chilies, drained • 2 tsp. chopped jalapeno (or to taste) • 3 green onions, chopped • 3/4 cup mayonnaise • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
Photos: Amy Poore
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Drain artichokes and roughly chop, combine with remaining ingredients. Place in small baking dish and cook for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly around the edges and slightly browned. Serve with Triscuit Thin Crisps (my favorite), or your favorite crunchy cracker.
Amy Poore is a new mom, a wife and a foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, Poore Amy, at www.pooreamy.com