January 2017 - Volume 4, Issue 1
Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper
THE ATHLETES OF
crossfit candor’s power hour By Hanson Watkins CrossFit has a reputation for being a tough workout. And it is. But according to Jamie Cormier, co-owner of Tuscaloosa’s CrossFit Candor, it is workout that can be altered to benefit a wide range of needs. She says it can work, even for kids with cerebral palsy. And autism. And spina bifida. The proof is in the Power Hour, an idea that was developed when Vera Spinks and Candor developed a program for Kylie Spinks, Vera’s daughter with cerebral palsy. “We were inspired by others in the CrossFit Community who were thriving despite physical restrictions. So, in hopes of
Virtual Reality See page 18
Shrimp Noodles See page 21 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
About Us...........2 Opinion.............4 Business......... .8 Community......11 Food................21 Calendar..........23
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improving Kylie’s quality of life, among other things, we started doing CrossFit with her once a week,” Cormier said. That was two years ago. The Power Hour has now grown to include six participants with a range of special needs. Every two weeks, a member of CrossFit Candor becomes a coach to a new child for Power Hour. “We work hard towards their goals using CrossFit movements modified to their current abilities. Many of these children would love to walk one day, but could not stand with heavy support on their first night,” Cormier said. “Kylie, who is
See CROSSFIT | page 12
Local Author Pens Second Tuscaloosa Mystery
By Tori Linville Detective Adelaide Bramson is back in action, with a whole new set of problems. Writing as Carolyn Breckenridge, Carolyn Ezell’s “Tuscaloosa Boneyard” is teeming with complicated characters in the familiar Tuscaloosa area. “From the outset, I had in mind that ‘Tuscaloosa Moon’ would be the first in a mystery trilogy, all showcasing the West Alabama area and to some extent, the state of Alabama,” Ezell said. “Also, my female detective, Addie, and her clinical psychologist husband, Luke, would be stable characters, with Addie’s partner, R.J., taking an increasingly active role as the series progressed. I think we see some of that in ‘Tuscaloosa Boneyard.’” With the intention to build a fictional community of characters, Ezell said her readers enjoy that a series allows them to follow characters and their lives. In the novels, she said familiar characters will be back, along with new faces. “If the books continue to be well-received, the series may extend beyond a trilogy, as almost every one of my characters has a lot going on,” Ezell said. “I suspect we’ll see Leah and
See BONEYARD | page 12
2 ABOUT CEO/Publisher Josh Watkins
(205) 529-5723 josh@druidcitymedia.com
Vice President Hanson Watkins
(205) 835-0094 hanson@druidcitymedia.com
Editor
Laurie Mundy Perrigin
(205) 246-2977 editor@druidcitymedia.com
Art Director Tori Linville
Marketing Consultants Tom Sommerville Britney McComb Allison Adams Contact us at: (256) 346-5321 sales@druidcitymedia.com Legal: Druid City Living (DCL) is published monthly. Reproduction or use of graphical content without prior permission is prohibited. DCL is designed to inform the readers regarding community news and events. Information is gathered from sources that are considered reliable, however the accuracy is not guaranteed. All articles, photos, etc. submitted become the property of DCL. We reserve the right to edit as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish any material. Any inaccuracies should be brought to the attention of the editor.
FROM THE EDITOR Happy New Year! This month, we’re thrilled to bring you some outstanding stories about happenings all over our area. From the continued growth of the University of Alabama and the need for additional student housing – both on campus, and off – to the new technology available to thousands of Tuscaloosa County students in the form of virtual learning, to new businesses opening around town, this month’s DCL offers a snapshot of life in our Druid City. Our columnists offer up words of wisdom this month about learning to enjoy life at a slower pace, appreciating life as it comes, wiping the 2016 slate clean and starting off this new year in a good frame of mind, and using technology to make our daily lives more fun and manageable (Thanks, Allison!). For the avid readers, we are thrilled to bring you more information about local author Carolyn Ezell (Breckinridge),
January 2017
whose second Detective Addie Bramson mystery, “Tuscaloosa Boneyard,” has just been released. We featured her first mystery, “Tuscaloosa Moon,” in our very first issue of Druid City Living, and we love having her back in our pages. Carolyn’s gifted husband, Jim Ezell, is our Tales of Tuscaloosa columnist – and this month, he fills us in on celestial happenings with “Year of the Comets.” As we launch into 2017, let’s take some time to stop and appreciate all that we have. Tuscaloosa and Northport are wonderful places to live. Here’s to the best year yet! As always, a special thanks to all our readers, writers, contributors and advertisers. Your efforts are appreciated by all of us here at Druid City Living. Best, Laurie Mundy Perrigin
PHOTO OF THE MONTH
Corrections The 41st Annual West Alabama Christmas Parade was moved to Thursday, Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. due to inclement weather. The tree lighting ceremony was cancelled, along with a parade route change. These changes were made after press time for the DCL December issue and were not printed. To stay up to date on all Tuscaloosa area events, visit druidcityliving.com. DCL’s December gift guide featured various gift ideas, including cupcake bath bombs crafted by local Tuscaloosa sisters Roxanne and Olivia. Corresponding websites were listed for each gift. The website for the Roxvia Collection, was not printed. Visit roxvia-collection. com to gift the perfect bath bomb to a loved one.
To report corrections and clarifications, email editor@ druidcitymedia.com
Mark Tegan and Dr. Rusty Sutterlin, founders of Inventure Renewables, were named the H. Pettus Randall Entrepreneurs of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama at a luncheon ceremony held on Dec. 7 at Hotel Capstone. Inventure Renewables COO John Brown and Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Rusty Sutterlin with Bobby Bragg and Al Spencer, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. Photo: Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama
January 2017 4 OPINION Give Life To Your Story: Past Shapes Future Experiences By Trish Wilkerson “Auld Lang Syne” was written by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788. Many of us associate this song with ringing in the New Year, and though we may not know all the lyrics, we’re happy to hum along. “Auld Lang Syne” roughly translates to “For old times’ sake.” The song begins with the lyrics, “Should auld acquaintances be forgot and never brought to mind?” This question is a good one to consider as we close 2016 and begin looking with hope at 2017. Should old times be forgotten? I would say, in most cases, no they should not. However, we live in a culture that is ever focused on the next thing life has to offer. I see this especially true with
We live in a culture that is ever focused on the next thing life has to offer. the teens I work with. One question I love to ask students around Christmas is not what they want to get for Christmas this year, but do they remember what they got for Christmas last year? Sadly, many cannot remember what they got for Christmas just one year before. In a girl’s small group meeting recently, we talked about our fears. Almost all the girls’ fears centered around their future plans. Would they go to the right college, would they pick the right career, marry the right person and do it all at the right time? It is good for teenagers to think about
and plan for their futures, but they shouldn’t be so consumed with it that they miss the here and now. If we are honest with ourselves, we adults fixate on the future also. We plan ahead constantly, and in doing so, we often miss the moments of life happening around us. In order to look back “for old times’ sake,” we have to be present in the moment. The reason so many of my teens can’t remember what they got for Christmas last year is because as soon as they got it, they moved on to the next thing. We must take time to appreciate life as it comes. There is much to learn from looking back at our life experiences, both the good ones and the unpleasant ones. The goals we set for the future should reflect the things we have learned in the past. Goals set as a result of a life lesson being learned are far more likely to stick. I wish more of the teens I work with could view their
We must take time to appreciate life as it comes. There is much to learn from looking back at our life experiences, both the good ones and the unpleasant ones. The goals we set for the future should reflect the things we have learned in the past.
Trish Wilkerson serves on the staff of Youth For Christ as Tuscaloosa County High Campus Life Director. You may reach Trish at trish@tuscaloosayfc.com. Photo: Trish Wilkerson
future through that lens. As you set your New Year resolutions and goals for 2017, don’t forget to stop and reflect on old times, so that your past successes and failures can help shape your future achievements. Likewise, if you have a teenager in your life that you love, help them see the value of living in the present. This could help alleviate some of the pressure they feel about their futures.
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OPINION 5 The Land of Oz: Leaving the Dumpster Fire for A Clean Slate January 2017
By Derek Osborn 2016 was kind of a dumpster fire, wasn’t it? Let’s think about it a minute, and then expeditiously move on. The amount of influential people that we lost was near unprecedented. Just a few of the names include John Glenn, Muhammad Ali, Gene Wilder, Arnold Palmer, Alan Rickman, Prince, David Bowie, Carrie Fisher, Merle Haggard, George Michael, Alan Thicke, Nancy Reagan, Maurice White, Glenn Frey, Gwen Ifill, Harper Lee and countless others who deserve recognition. There were those that died too soon … the shooting in Orlando, the airport attack in Istanbul, the Nigerian church collapse, the alligator at Disney, the bombings in Nice and Brussels and various other parts of the world, the Chattanooga bus crash, the thousands of drug overdose deaths in this country, and the multiple civilian and police shootings around the U.S. – just to name a few. Then there was the historic drought that plagued Tuscaloosa and was far worse in other cities in the southeast. Parts of Gatlinburg went up in flames. More lives were lost. Many other communities fought wildfires as we went over 60 days without measurable rainfall. Yet, there was historic flooding in Louisiana. And let’s not forget hurricane Matthew, which at last count had claimed around 900 lives by itself. Then we have the political landscape. My, what a banner year 2016 was. For many of these occurrences, we are as helpless as an owner of a sick goldfish. But for many of them, we are not.
The new year is all about a clean slate and resolving to improve; to be more tolerant; to be healthier, mentally and physically. Most importantly, we need to be better citizens, better Americans, and better representatives of the human race. Ultimately, we all need to try and
The new year is all about a clean slate and resolving to improve; to be more tolerant; to be healthier, mentally and physically. Most importantly, we need to be better citizens, better Americans, and better representatives of the human race. Ultimately, we all need to try and do better than we did last year. do better than we did last year. 2016 wasn’t a total loss... At least the best football team in America still resides in the middle of town. And hey, we got turn lanes on McFarland and
Hey, we got turn lanes on McFarland and 15th Street! That’s progress.
“The Land of Oz” is a monthly editorial piece of masterful opinionated writing (insert joke here) regarding life and times in the big town of Tuscaloosa coupled with the musings of a guy nicknamed “Oz.” Photo: Derek Osborn
15th Street! That’s progress. 2017 already promises a large array of changes, and hopefully more for the good than for the lousy. They say you’re either moving forward or backward, and on many levels last year it seems we backpedaled more than we advanced. But now we’ve all got a clean slate. Let’s put something good on it.
I tweet insignificant things @ozborn34. Derek Osborn is the Executive Director of PRIDE of Tuscaloosa by trade and writer by hobby. He lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Lynn, and their daughters, Savannah and Anica.
January 2017 6 OPINION The Mommy Chronicles: New Year and A New, Slower Home Life By Marlena Rice Recently, I called my husband on the way to work to discuss a pressing matter. Months ago, we agreed that this morning drive is the best time for us to talk about serious matters – everything from home repair ideas to bills. With over half of our small family commuting to Birmingham each day, scheduling these tougher conversations frees up our evening time for relaxing. That evening “relaxing” time also involves dishwashing. And everything else under the sun, from dog bathing to random grocery trips to impromptu school project work and home study sessions. To complicate matters, many of us as working parents also find ourselves tethered to work at all hours, thanks in part to company-paid cell phones and laptops. It’s a merry-goround of busy. In the meantime, our lives are speedily passing us by. How can we slow things down? As mothers, there are three key areas that I believe can make our lives more efficient and enjoyable.
Self-Betterment
Designate some morning time to pray or meditate. Starting your day off peacefully will mentally prepare you for what’s to come. Block off calendar time specifically for yourself. It may be a 45-minute visit to the bookstore each Saturday morning, or lunch at a new place each week. Schedule this self-preservation time well in advance, so you have no excuse to cancel. Many moms must find alternatives for
Left: Beaux William fine tunes his writing skills during an evening home study session. Right: Marlena Rice is a busy mom and writer who lives in Tuscaloosa with her husband, Rod, and their son, Beaux William. Photos: Marlena Rice
the typical “me” time, including Lasandra Cooper. Although her daughters now have children of their own, Cooper remembers how she managed. “The only time I could find for myself was when they went to sleep,” Cooper said of her daughters’ younger days. “I would make sure they were in bed by 8:00 p.m. so I would have at least two hours of down time.”
Relationship Betterment
Spend at least 30 uninterrupted minutes each day with your children and spouse. Turn off the television, put the cell
phones in another room and have conversation. If you have little ones, talk to them about what’s happening in their classroom. You will be surprised with what you learn without the distractions. Find fellowship time with friends. Connect with people from church, work or family. Engage yourself in activities outside of your norm, and establish relationships that can serve double-duty as friendships and support systems.
Living in Purpose
If you’re unhappy at work, it’s time to make a decision: Is it you? Your
surroundings? Your colleagues? When we understand our true complaints, we’re better able to make choices that are right for us. If you find yourself looking for something new professionally, think about what you love to do in your spare time that makes you feel like you’re living in purpose. No time for hobbies? Branch out and rediscover your interests – you may find yourself heading down a whole new lane.
OPINION 7 Lake Living: Embracing the New Year with New Technology
January 2017
Get Organized
By Allison Adams 2017: 365 days, gone again. Embrace it! Start again with a fresh, clean calendar and blank days to fill. This year, fill them with things that matter and stretch your horizons. Instead of internal resolutions, I am here to encourage you to get outside your box with a little help from technology.
The BusyCal Calendar app can help you merge all your calendars into one, with reminders. You can also use popular computer apps on your phone, like Microsoft OneNote (great for scribbled notes). MS Word is always a favorite for clipping things.
Flip for Photos See the Stars Get in touch with your nostalgic side. Remember how big the world is when
melodrama tries to dampen your new year. Start in your own backyard with the Star Rover HD app, and take in the night sky. Yes, the weather is cold and the air is thinner, but the leaves are out of the way, making for wonderful viewing. Tell the kids to leave their phones on – it’ll freak them out for sure. Let them get involved, and see how many planets their app can find. Grab a blanket and some hot chocolate, and make a great 2017 family memory together.
Find Inspiration Get inspired with apps such as Inspira-
tional Quotes, The Breathing Zone and The Bible App. Take a grown-up time out! In an artsy mood? The DailyArt Pro app offers classic art each day to inspire. Learn a language with pop-up app reminders! Pursue music with the GoodEar app, and learn to recognize music tones. Change your year one app at a time!
There are countless photo apps with vintage appeal.. There is also an app for your phone for those great double-exposed photos we used to take with film – it’s called Multiple. The Pixlr app takes your photos and collages them into one image. I did a collage of my South Africa photos in the shape of an elephant!
Expand Boundaries The Google Earth app reminds us we
are a small dot on a big planet. Expand your territory by taking the back roads - use the Historical Markers app or the Alabama Road Trips app to find surprises in your own backyard.
Get Healthy Smartphone apps can get (and keep)
you moving. Fitbit has people tracking steps, calories burned and overall activity. Apps are available for heart monitoring, breathing exercises, sleep and more. Take good care of yourself in 2017! I asked my kids to tell me their favorite
Training my assistant, Bacon the Cat, to get get techy. Photo: Allison Adams
phone apps, so we can all be “hip” in the new year: “Stay smart with Trivia Crack, Words with Friends and stay face to face with Snapchat.” I encourage you to get your own Snapchat to keep up with what they are really doing!
Have a blessed and techy New Year, Allison Adams, Lake Homes Realty Find me at allisonpadams.com with other techy suggestions for business and home.
U.S. News & World Report
This icon is not the official U.S. News & World Report best hospitals emblem.
CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA IS:
2016-17
BEST CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS
l The third largest pediatric hospital in the United States l Licensed for 332 beds & 48 NICU bassinets l The first LEED-certified hospital building in Alabama l One of the Top 20 employers in Alabama with more than 4,700 employees across the state l The pediatric teaching hospital for the School of Medicine at UAB
Russell Campus
1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233
Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place
Children’s South
205.638.9100
1601 5th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1208 3rd Avenue South 1600 5th Avenue South
1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243
l Site of the only pediatric kidney dialysis program in the state — one of the largest in the country
205.638.4800
Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services, specialty care clincis and After Hours care
Pediatric Practice Solutions Primary Care Locations Alabaster (Greenvale Pediatrics) Bessemer (Pediatrics West) Birmingham (Midtown Pediatrics) Brook Highland (Greenvale Pediatrics) Clay/Chalkville (Pediatrics East-Deerfoot) Homewood (Mayfair Medical Group) Hoover (Greenvale Pediatrics)
McAdory (Pediatrics West) Montgomery (Physicians to Children/Central Alabama Children’s Specialists) Mountain Brook (Over the Mountain Pediatrics) Pell City (Pell City Pediatrics) Trussville (Pediatrics East) Vestavia (Vestavia Pediatrics)
www.ChildrensAL.org
l Home to the Pediatric & Congenital Heart Center of Alabama, where more than 450 cardiac surgeries are performed annually
l Home to one of the largest burn units in the Southeast l One of the largest pediatric rheumatology programs in the nation and the only one in Alabama l The provider of care for more than 90 percent of Alabama children with cancer and blood disorders
8 BUSINESS
January 2017
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If If you are a local Tuscaloosa business and want to share your news with the community, let us know.
Email: Editor@DruidCityLiving.com
January 2017
Now Open 1
The newest ABC Store in Tuscaloosa is open at 1101 Lurleen B. Wallace Blvd. S. The Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board opened the location in December. 2 North River Therapy, a locally owned physical therapy clinic which specializes in orthopedic, vestibular and neurological issues, has expanded. An open house and ribbon cutting ceremony at the newly expanded clinic was held on Dec. 1. northrivertherapy.com; (205) 333-5351 3 Ernest & Hadley Booksellers celebrated its grand opening on Dec. 11. Located at 1928 7th Street in downtown Tuscaloosa, Ernest & Hadley strives to provide a unique selection of books and other creative materials from local, regional and international sources. ernestandhadleybooks.com; (205) 632-5331
News and Accomplishments Epiphany Farm-to-Fork Cuisine closed its doors on Dec. 17. Owner and Executive Chef Tres Jackson, along with Chef Joel Frederick, are opening a new fast-casual restaurant, Animal Butter, at 2217 University Blvd. in Tuscaloosa. Tuscaloosa County Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Donna Anders accepted the statewide award for Outstanding County Committee in division 3 during a luncheon Dec. 5 at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 95th annual meeting in Montgomery. The award goes to a county Women’s Leadership Committee that has demonstrated excellent work and increased involvement over the past year. Chris Gunter has joined Sentell Engineering, Inc. as director of marketing. Gunter will be responsible for driving brand recognition, community involvement, public relations, and sales leadership.
BUSINESS 9
Emilee H. Scheeff has joined Rosen Harwood Attorneys at Law as an associate in the Business, Corporate and Commercial Law Group, with a focus on state and local taxation; estate planning; wealth management and asset protection; and business succession planning. The Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation received the Award for Excellence at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 95th annual meeting in Montgomery in December. The award recognizes counties excelling in five sections of the Federation: organization, agricultural programs, governmental affairs, and the county’s Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers committees. Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation President Joe Anders accepted the award.
NorthRiver Yacht Club Director of Instruction Steve Whidden has been selected as a 2016 Top 50 Instructor by PGA Magazine. This is the fifth year in a row Whidden, who joined the NorthRiver team in April 2016, has been chosen.
Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation President Joe Anders (left) accepts the Award for Excellence at the Alabama Farmer’s Federation’s December meeting Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan. Photo: Alabama Farmers Federation
Shanna Ullmann has joined the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama as Vice President for Community Engagement. She will coordinate multiple Chamber councils and affiliate groups, oversee leadership development programs, direct all professional development training, and manage the organization’s membership events.
Business you want to see here? Email us at: editor@druidcitymedia.com
COMMUNITY 11 Tuscaloosa and UA Continue ‘Pro-Growth’ Strategy January 2017
By Katherine Chatmon The University of Alabama’s enrollment has nearly doubled in the past 15 years, from 19,633 students in 2001 to 37,665 students in 2016. This upward trend is expected to continue as UA expands with various building projects projected to be completed by 2020. Housing Administration Associate Director Kimberly Sterritt said that the goal to reach 50,000 students is on track. “The new Tutwiler building should be completed by 2020,” Sterritt said. “The new hall beside Lakeside is projected to be completed by Fall 2018.” The new housing may benefit returning students who want to continue living on-campus. “We wouldn’t be able to fit 50,000 students living on campus,” Sterritt said. “But I would like to see policies implemented that allow returning students to have an option with the increasing size of the freshman class.” Al Spencer, vice president for economic development and public policy with the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, hopes the University continues its pro-growth strategy.
“UA is an incredible economic engine.” AL SPENCER
cil unanimously approved two new apartment complexes to be developed. The first, located at the former site of the Fire Station No. 1 (2525 Sixth St.), will be a five-story complex with 84 residential units and 104 bedrooms. The second, The Hub at Tuscaloosa, will be six stories, with 485 bedrooms and a two-level, underground parking
“Core Spaces has embarked on and set the standard for the redevelopment of older, closer-in locations...” CHIP SCHELL
lot. It will be located on Red Drew Avenue between Sixth and Eighth Streets. “With this development, [develThe Hub at Tuscaloosa is a six-story residential complex which will be built on Red Drew Avenue in opment company] Core Spaces has Tuscaloosa. Photo: Core Spaces of Chicago embarked on and set the standard for the redevelopment of older, closer-in “UA is an incredible economic engine,” student spending is an estimated $373 locations, and has increased the density of Spencer said. “Tuscaloosa is growing million, not including money spent on students living in a given location,” Chip because of Mercedes and UA.” campus. Student spending allows the city Schell, Vice President of New Business The University of Alabama is the to recruit more national retailers. said. region’s top employer with 10,700 emBut how far can the University expand? The projected development is set to be ployees. According to the Chamber of “I feel there will be a natural cap that ready for the 2018 school year. Commerce, the students are fueling the will occur,” Spencer said. “If UA was economic growth of Tuscaloosa. On-campus students spend an average of $257 a month shopping compared to $1,357 for off-campus students. The total
unable to purchase Bryce, I don’t think we would have made it to this number of students.” In October, the Tuscaloosa City Coun-
12 COMMUNITY
January 2017
CROSSFIT continued from page 1
From front page: Kylie Spinks was the inspiration behind Crossfit Candor’s Power Hour for adaptive athletes. Top: Kylie could not support her weight before Power Hour, but is now almost able to stand on her own. Bottom: Bradley Wyatt, one of the participants in Power Hour, works with his coaches. Photos: CrossFit Candor
very close to standing with no support, could not support her weight our first time together. With the help of some University of Alabama wheelchair basketball players who understand her plight, she’s on the cusp of walking, holding the back of a basketball wheelchair as she goes. Her goal is in sight.” Bradley (7), Cooper (4), and Hank (15) are the current boys of the
BONEYARD
group. While they differ in ages and current abilities, Cormier said each brings his own strengths to Power Hour. “Bradley has amazing core strength and his feet, though they are the size of an NBA superstar, are walking in a walker, ready to run. Cooper is the life of the party. His spirit and laughter is contagious, and he is now standing from a seated position and walking for the first time,”
she said. “Hank walked the length of our 40+ foot rig, his longest unassisted walk ever. He works harder than any athlete in our box. ” The Power Hour is free for the families involved, and Cormier said no coach receives payment for their services. “We are so inspired by these athletes. Whatever small amount of help we’re giving them, we’re paid in joy and inspiration.”
continued from page 1
Benjamin again, but Tony will definitely be in novel three. There are so many Tonys in our world, probably most of us have known one youth who walks a dangerous, vulnerable life tightrope.” The troubled teen, Tony Arrington, isn’t the only character walking a tightrope. Ezell frequently focuses on family lives that are far from picture perfect, often with absent parents, custody battles and foster families. “I grew up in an era when TV portrayed families as happy units of a stay-at-home mom who basically baked cookies all day, a dad who worked and came home at day’s end
to help his wife maintain a just and balanced world order, and children whose problems were solved in half hour segments,” Ezell said. “This, of course, was not true then, but is still a part of the American dream of mom, dad, and apple pie. Since that time, I believe society has become far more complex and in some ways more transparent, and the issues we face as family and community can be quite challenging.” As a licensed clinical social worker, Ezell has first-hand knowledge about how convoluted families can be. In a way, she said she hopes to be a voice for what real families can look like.
“Some children and families face problems that take a lifetime, or even several generations to solve,” she said. “Although my stories are intended to be fun and are filled with twists, turns, multiple mysteries to solve, and ultimately the feeling of hope, one underlying purpose is to be a voice for these children and their families.” For a further look into Carolyn Ezell’s “Tuscaloosa Boneyard,” her future plans and her favorite characters, this story in its entirety can be found at druidcityliving.com. ADVERTORIAL CONTENT
January 2017
COMMUNITY 13 Free Tree Recycling Offered
Live Christmas trees can be dropped off at the city of Tuscaloosa’s Environmental Services Department facility on Kauloosa Avenue through Jan. 15. Photo: City of Tuscaloosa
By Laurie Mundy Perrigin Now that the holidays are over, residents who wish to recycle their Christmas trees can do so. The city of Tuscaloosa is accepting and recycling live Christmas trees through Sunday, Jan. 15. During the free drop-off event, citizens and businesses can drop off live Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands to be recycled. The drop-off will be located at the city’s Environmental Services Department facility (3340
Kauloosa Ave). “Trees are ‘recycled’ and used as natural fish bed habitats in local lakes, or made into landscaping mulch,” said Ashley Chambers, environmental coordinator for the city of Tuscaloosa. Since the program started 12 years ago, over 1,000 trees have been recycled. “In 2015, we received over 300 live Christmas trees and garland,” Chambers said. “We’ve seen this recycling program grow each year, and we expect a
large turnout.” In order to be recycled, all items must be stripped of lights and decorations, which can also be recycled on-site in marked containers. The lights will be included in the city’s electronic recycling program, and will continue to be collected year-round.
14 COMMUNITY
January 2017
By Katherine Chatmon
Ernest &Hadley opens literary haven to readers By Tori Linville It takes a village to cultivate the kind of community that authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway were known for. Ernest & Hadley Booksellers, located in downtown Tuscaloosa, aims to be one of those villages. “This place is an outlet for local authors to get their books out there,” said owner Easty Lambert-Brown. “There’s a lot of writers in this city that I didn’t even know about and their books are a variety of themes; the stories and biographies are pretty outstanding.”
“This place is an outlet for local authors to get their books out there. There’s a lot of writers in this city that I didn’t even know about and their books are a variety of themes; the stories and biographies are pretty outstanding.” EASTY LAMBERT-BROWN
Community curation is at the forefront of philosophies at Ernest & Hadley. Running partly on community member suggestions and requests, the bookstore welcomes input from customers on what they want to see in a local bookstore. “We’re trying to get in things we’ve been hearing about since opening. There have been a lot of science fiction requests and requests relative to Black History Month coming up. When people come in with a list, I go ahead and order them. Our back order list is almost longer than our order list,” she said with a chuckle. “Orders usually come in two to three days, though.” The store serves as a meeting place for the community to grab a cup of coffee and
“When people come in with a list, I go ahead and order them. Our back order list is almost longer than our order list.” EASTY LAMBERT-BROWN
chat while offering a selection that isn’t seen in many of the bigger chain bookstores. The defined sections for different subjects is negotiable as the store melds together, almost like a living being. “We have a large section on human rights and food culture. It started off as a travel section, but then it morphed into food culture and human rights,” she said. “You might see the same book in southern authors, in food culture and in travel memoirs, because it could apply to all sections. You get a sense of what people in Tuscaloosa are interested in and what’s available.”
Coming soon to Ernest & Hadley will be Melissa Myer’s “Lunar Chronicles,” a retelling of traditional fairy tales with scifi elements. As the requests keep coming in, from mysteries to children’s books, Lambert-Brown said the store will stay on top of upcoming events, including Black History Month. “We’re trying to get programming around [Black History Month],” she said. “We hope to get John Lewis here to speak about his graphic novel trilogy called ‘March.’ He’s a representative for Georgia in Congress, so we’re trying to fit him in for February.” Ernest & Hadley Booksellers is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday and is closed on Sundays. For more with Ernest & Hadley Booksellers’ Easty Lambert-Brown, including how the store welcomes book clubs regularly and Lambert-Brown’s book recommendations, visit druidcityliving.com.
STORE HOURS: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday CLOSED
“You might see the same book in southern authors, in food culture and in travel memoirs, because it could apply to all sections. You get a sense of what people in Tuscaloosa are interested in and what’s available.” EASTY LAMBERT-BROWN
Within the store’s first week alone, Ernest & Hadley’s best sellers included a variety of children’s books, a book on Celtic tales and even J.D. Vance’s “Hillbilly Elegy,” a book that helps to explain the recent election, Lambert-Brown said, all showing the different interests of Tuscaloosa readers.
Top: Customer favorites included everything from children’s books to Celtic tales to books about the recent election. Left: Ernest & Hadley’s name was inspired by Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson. Right: Author Jennifer Horne was a part of Ernest & Hadley’s opening and signed copies of her book, “Little Wanderer.” Photos courtesy of Ernest & Hadley.
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COMMUNITY 17
January 2017
Tales of
Tuscaloosa Year of the Comets: January 25, 1910 By Jim Ezell
A
group of Tuscaloosans gathered in the rooftop garden of the recently erected Alston Building at the corner of 6th Street and Greensboro Avenue. It was about 6 p.m. in the early winter evening of Tuesday, January 25, 1910. In the western sky, just below Venus, a bright streak extended to the horizon. The year of the comet began unexpectedly early. A spectacular upstart had arrived three months earlier than the highly-anticipated Halley’s Comet. Throughout recorded history and certainly long before, people have noted the courses of stars and planets. However, unanticipated events such as meteors, novae and comets often evoked fear and consternation. Since these interlopers appeared to upset the “natural order,” they were generally regarded as malevolent influences, or omens of important events. Many Romans thought the Great Comet of 44 BC signified the deification of Julius Caesar. The 1066 appearance of Halley’s Comet was said to herald the coming of William the Conqueror to England. Until the 18th century, comets were thought to be atmospheric disturbances. However, British scientist Edmund Halley (1656-1742) theorized they were celestial bodies orbiting the sun, and that the comets of 1531, 1607 and 1682 were the same object. Halley, a supporter of Isaac Newton, paid for publication of Principia, one of history’s most important scientific works. Using Newton’s Laws of motion and universal gravitation from the Principia, Halley calculated that the comet would return in 1758. When the comet returned on schedule (16 years after Halley’s death), it was named in his honor. Comets are now known to be clumps of ice, dust and rock particles in the outer
Left: Halley’s Comet photographed May 29, 1910, by the Yerkes Observatory. Center: 1910 Italian postcard possibly representing Halley’s Comet as a thinly veiled Urania, the celestial muse of astronomy from Greek mythology. From the author’s collection. Right: The Great January Comet of 1910 preceded Halley’s Comet by three months. Image courtesy of the Lowell Observatory Archives.
regions of our solar system. The paths of some become perturbed or modified so that they are carried into the inner solar system (the area of the orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars). As comets enter this area, atomic particles and light streaming from the sun exert a gentle push that shapes their volatile components into a tail. Comets fall into two broad categories. Short-period comets return on known schedules ranging from a few years to several decades. Halley’s Comet is the only short-period comet visible to the unaided eye. Long-period comets, such as the Great January Comet of 1910, are unanticipated, surprising astronomers and the public. Their orbits extend to far greater distances from the sun and can have periods of thousands of years. Tuscaloosans, like most Americans, were familiar with comets. In 1845,
University of Alabama Professor Frederick Barnard presented a public lecture at the First Presbyterian Church. He spoke on the motions of celestial bodies and how the return of comets can be predicted. He also emphasized that comets presented no threat to earth because of their “light substance.” During the 19th century, several spectacular comets were visible, including Halley’s Comet of 1835, the Great Comet of 1843, Donati’s Comet of 1858 and the Great September Comet of 1882. The return of Halley’s Comet in 1910, and anticipation that the earth would pass through its tail, triggered a worldwide comet craze. Comet themed items produced by entrepreneurs included jewelry, whisky, satirical or risqué postcards, cartoons, tobacco products and a multitude of other things. For those fearing the comet’s appearance, there were gas masks, comet pills and umbrellas to
fend off falling debris. An April 1910 issue of the West Alabama Breeze presented the “Itinerary of Halley’s Comet.” It detailed times and locations for the comet, concluding that it would return between 1985 and 1989. As predicted, the comet appeared in late 1985 and early 1986. A number of spacecraft (jokingly referred to as “Halley’s Armada”) were launched to study it. However, conditions for earthbound viewing were far less favorable than in 1910, since the comet was on the opposite side of the sun. Halley’s next appearance is scheduled for the summer of 2061, offering some Tuscaloosans the opportunity to see it twice in their lifetimes.
About the Author
Local author and historian Jim Ezell is writing a collection of historical stories about Druid City and surrounding areas, in hopes of publishing a book ahead of Tuscaloosa’s bicentennial celebration in 2019. What began as genealogy search in 1992 quickly turned into a much larger project. As Ezell searched through over a century of newspapers at the University of Alabama’s Hoole Special Collections Library, he became fascinated by other articles from the Druid City.
January 2017 18 COMMUNITY Virtual Reality Learning Comes to Tuscaloosa Classrooms By Druid City Living Staff Technology is advancing, and the Tuscaloosa County School System is keeping up with the times. The Tuscaloosa County Board of Education recently approved the purchase and installation of a zSpace Virtual Learning Lab for each of the system’s six high schools. David Scott, director of curriculum and instruction for the Tuscaloosa County School System, said the labs cost $44,216 each, and will be available soon. “We placed a lab (a lab consists of 10 units) in each of our six high schools with a total cost of approximately $265,296,” he said. “The zSpace labs are available to students immediately after teachers have received professional development.” The devices bring real world applications to the classroom by allowing students to work in cooperative groups to learn, explore and find solutions to challenging problems. The virtual reality suites, known as Cyberscience, Franklin’s Lab, Newton’s Park and Leopoly, include applications in the areas of science, math, technology and career technical education. Cyberscience is a library of almost 150 dissectible images. The images range from all parts of the human body to veterinary level dissections of animals, to dinosaurs, to planets, to mechanical, botanical and many other STEM and career tech applications. Franklin’s Lab is an electronics design and build station that lets students design, build, test and assess electrical circuits and experiments. Newton’s Park lets
The zSpace Vitural Learning devices bring real world applications to life in today’s classroom. Photos: zSpace
students focus on designing and assessing experiments involving aspects of physics including friction, mass, motion, movement and specific gravity. Leopoly lets students design 3-D projects into an art program by manipulating a 3-D ball of clay and instruments, creating items that can be printed on a 3-D printer. Scott said zSpace will give students a hands-on experience without having to leave the classroom. “Students can actually perform tasks
“Students will be able to experience virtual reality learning and their imaginations will be ignited to think, imagine and dream beyond what they thought was possible.” DAVID SCOTT
through 3-D and 4-D images. It also focuses on STEM education,” he said. “Students will be able to experience virtual reality learning and their imaginations will be ignited to think, imagine and dream beyond what they thought was possible.”
COMMUNITY 19 Rachel Goggins, Woodland Forrest Elementary
January 2017
By Tori Linville After graduating from the University of Alabama with a degree in Early Childhood Special Education in 2009, Rachel Goggins decided she’d never leave Tuscaloosa. She’s now in her fourth year of teaching first grade at Woodland Forrest Elementary and she said she considers her students as her biggest accomplishment. “When I think of big accomplishments, I always think of my students,” Goggins said. “Their victories are my victories as well. My greatest accomplishments as a teacher happen when my kids meet their goals.” She said she wished people knew how much it takes to make a successful classroom. And it doesn’t have anything to do with being a strict teacher. “I want people to understand the abundance of love and grace that is necessary to have a successful classroom. Rita Pierson is quoted as saying, ‘Kids don’t learn from people they don’t like,’” she said. “Teaching is not just curriculum; it is relationships.” Goggins said her secret to maintaining those relationships is positive reinforcement. She said she tries to see the bigger picture behind her students and treat them
“I want people to understand the abundance of love and grace that is necessary to have a successful classroom. Rita Pierson is quoted as saying, ‘Kids don’t learn from people they don’t like.’ Teaching is not just curriculum; it is relationships.” RACHEL GOGGINS
as individuals. “I am a firm believer in praise and positive reinforcement. If I have a student that struggles with behavior, I try to brag on them first thing in the morning when I see them make a good choice,” she said. “It is so important to understand the child’s background, interests and home life in order to appropriately handle discipline issues. There’s no one-size-fitsall option.” Part of treating her students as individuals is finding something they’re interested in, especially when it comes to their studies. She said incorporating their interests and making learning fun is just one way parents can stay involved in their children’s academic life. “Find things that your child is interested in, and try to incorporate learning into those activities. Read, read, read with your children as well,” she said. “Literacy is critical because it affects every other
Photo: Rachel Goggins part of your child’s education.” When she isn’t devoting herself to her classroom, Goggins works in ministry at Calvary Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa.
She said her undergraduate experience encouraged her to make the decision to never leave.
e r ne st Celebrating 20-Years Serving Seniors!
hadley booksellers ERNEST & HADLEY BOOKSELLERS strives to provide a unique selection of books and other creative materials from local, regional, and international sources. We seek the input of community members who have a deep love of books and wish to share that passion with others. With a village approach, we provide space for book clubs to meet, authors to hold book signings, and artists to exhibit their craft, as all are essential to our purpose. We are now filling our calendar with Book Club Meetings every
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Tuesday and Thursday evening, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm so please call to reserve your space!
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Hours: 10 am – 6 pm, Mon. – Fri. 10 am – 5 pm, Sat. Closed Sunday For more information, call 205.632.5331 1928 7th
street tuscaloosa, alabama 35405 www.ernestandhadleybooks.com
January 2017 20 COMMUNITY UA Students Assist Crimson Tide Women’s Basketball Team By Stan J. Griffin With the 2016-2017 season in full gear for Kristy Curry’s University of Alabama women’s basketball team, it is obviously a hectic time for Curry and her staff, as well as Tide players such as juniors Meo Knight, Hannah Cook and Ashley Williams. But it is also a busy time for a group of around 30 students who assist the Crimson Tide in their daily practice sessions, helping with very drills and game-like simulations. “I started in 2013 in my freshman year, and it was the first year of this coaching staff,” said Joe Nissen. “They had sent out an e-mail to people who played intramurals the year before, and I played high school basketball with a sophomore here, so he signed up and he told me to do it. I’ve been a part of (assisting Curry’s team) for four years.” Mitchell Byrd said he enjoys the interaction with the Crimson Tide team. “Honestly I like building relationships with the girls on the team and the coaching staff, and that’s why I wanted to come out and play with them, and have a little fun,” he said. “I also like going out there and schooling them a little bit.” Nissen said it is rewarding to see their efforts in helping Curry’s team translate into success by the Tide during its games. Fellow helper Stuart Harmon noted that between five and eight students attend practice per day. “Just knowing in we’re coming in to work, and playing how (Alabama’s opponent) is going to play, and we’re playing
Left: Helpers Nathan Mitchell (left) and Gilchrist Schmidt work with freshman Ashley Knight (25) during a practice session at Foster Auditorium. Right: UA women’s basketball practice helpers (L to R) Mitchell Byrd, Stuart Harmon and Joe Nissen help with daily practice sessions. Photos: Stan J. Griffin
a direct role in preparing them, and when that translates into them winning games, it’s nice to have been a part of that.” Curry noted that the practice helpers are an essential part of the preparation process by her Crimson Tide team. “They’re amazing, and they show up day-in and day-out and all they get is some practice gear and a pair of tennis shoes and some equipment, and (her players and the helpers) have become like brothers and sisters,” she said. “These young men prepare us and they
“These young men prepare us and they allow our players to focus on individual improvement instead of always being on the opponent. They really do a great job in our drill work with passing and defending and the breakdowns.” KRISTY CURRY
allow our players to focus on individual improvement instead of always being on the opponent. They really do a great job in our drill work with passing and defending and the breakdowns.” Cook said it does not take long for her and her teammates to form a solid bond with the practice players. “They really push us hard and they’re quicker than us so it pushes us and it pushes me for sure, but I love them,” she said. “It gets a little competitive, and there is some trash talking, but it’s fun.”
FOOD 21
January 2017
JANUARY
Lasagna Soup and Honey Garlic Shrimp and Noodles By Amy Poore Now that the holidays are behind us, it’s time to enjoy the new year with a little down time. The month of January always makes me want non-traditional food, and comfort food, and this lasagna soup is just the thing to satisfy. I don’t know many people who’ll turn down anything lasagna-related – including my husband and my daughter! Also, this honey garlic shrimp and noodles makes for a perfect, easy entrée. Here’s to a Happy New Year, and as always, bon appétit!
Amy Poore is a mom, a wife and a foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, www.pooreamy.com. Recipes and photos by Amy Poore.
Lasagna Soup 1 lb. ground beef 1/2 large onion, chopped 1 small can tomato paste 1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes 1 14 oz. can crushed tomatoes 3 cups beef broth 1 cup V8 juice 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried basil 2 teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic (jar kind) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 1/2 cups dried short pasta (i.e. penne, macaroni) Shredded mozzarella cheese Brown beef and onions over medium high heat, drain. In crock pot, mixed together all ingredients except for cheese, add in ground beef/onion mixture and cook on low for 3 hours. Serve with shredded cheese and garlic bread. If soup is too thick, you can add a little water.
ADVERTORIAL CONTENT
Honey Garlic Shrimp & Noodles
3/4 cup honey 1/2 cup soy sauce 2 tablespoons garlic, minced 2 teaspoons ginger, minced 1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 green onions, chopped 2 teaspoons cornstarch 1-2 tablespoons water 8 oz. udon noodles, cooked
Whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger in a medium bowl. In a large zip lock bag, place shrimp and 1/4 of the sauce in the bag. Coat well and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 8 hours. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade (discard marinade) and cook shrimp for about a minute per side. Add in the remaining sauce and cook until heated through, add the cornstarch slurry (whisked water and cornstarch), and bring to a simmer until thickened. Serve shrimp and sauce over cooked udon noodles. Sprinkle with green onions.
22 FOOD January 2017 Manna Grocery and Deli Stays Fresh and Healthy
By Sheena Gregg It’s hard to ignore the influx of health-conscious businesses that have been springing up in Tuscaloosa over the past five years. With television advertisements, new medical research, and a plethora of internet resources touting the importance of diet and supplements, it’s no wonder that businesses of this type continue to appear. However, those transient to Tuscaloosa may not realize the long-standing history of health food and product selection that Manna Grocery and Deli in Tuscaloosa offers. Manna Grocery and Deli co-owner Francis Drennen and her business partner, Earle Drennen, have been in the natural food business since the 1970s. “We first started with a business on The Strip named Harmony Natural Foods. We moved away for a short time and came back and opened Manna Grocery in 1980 on 15th Street, “said Drennen. Since it first opened, Manna has expanded twice: Once in 1983 (including a deli), and then a move in 1989 to its
current McFarland Blvd. location. “Though we have people that have been shopping with us since the 70s, we get quite a number of new customers to our store,” Drennen said. “People from other parts of the country are always impressed with the variety and quality of supplements and other products that we have to offer.” Longtime Manna deli employee Brenda Hill said she loves the atmosphere of the restaurant and store. “My favorite thing about Manna is making our daily soups, with my favorite being the kale vegetable soup,” said Hill. For Drennen, her favorite day in the deli is Friday. “On Friday, we offer our ‘soulful salmon’ which features a salmon filet served with an in-house sauce one of our cooks created several years ago.” Despite the vast selection of made in-house food options that Manna offers, the business prides itself on being a place of education for customers. “We don’t claim to diagnose, prescribe, or heal people with our products, but we believe that nutrition supplements can help give the body the nutrition it needs for self-care when diet itself is lacking,” Drennen said, adding that employees focus on helping customers make an informed decision, avoiding product pushing. “We focus on what’s in the food and what’s not in the food. I attribute the success of our business to people feeling comfortable and confident with knowing exactly what’s in our products.”
Francis Drennen and her business partner, Earle Drennen (not pictured), co-founded the natural food store Manna Grocery in 1980. Photos: Sheena Gregg
Sheena Gregg is a registered dietician and local “Filipino Foodie.” Follow her adventures at afilipinofoodie.com.
January Calendar of Events Holidays on the River: Through Jan. 16, Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. With ice skating, music, dance performances and more, this event offers something for the entire family. Tickets to skate may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater box office on-site. Viewing admission is free of charge. City of Tuscaloosa Christmas Tree Recycling: Through Jan. 15. Live Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands can be dropped off for free at the Environmental Services Department facility (3340 Kauloosa Ave.). Items must be stripped of lights and decorations. Theatre Tuscaloosa Auditions for “The Real Queen of Hearts Ain’t Even Pretty”: Jan. 3 and 4, 6-8 p.m. Wilson Carr Rehearsal Hall, Shelton State Community College Martin Campus. Be prepared for cold readings from the script. Know the play and which role you are interested in. Scripts will be available at the Theatre Tuscaloosa ticket office. Kentuck Art Night in downtown Northport: Thursday, Jan. 5, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event, a monthly celebration of art and artists, is free to the public. For more information, visit kentuck.org/art-night. Old Rock Sock Hop at CHOM: Jan. 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum, downtown Tuscaloosa. This rockin’ and rollin’ good time event is complete with great tunes, fun crafts, and root beer floats. All activities are included in admission. For more information: (205) 349-4235 and chomonline.org. Bama Art House Winter Film Series 2017: 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. 14. The first film in the series, “London Town,” is scheduled for Jan. 10. For more information, call (205) 758-5195 or visit bamatheatre.org. UA Gymnastics vs. LSU: Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. Coleman Coliseum, University of Alabama campus. This first home meet of the season features a Bama salute. It’s also Big Al’s Kids Club Night, with free admission with a membership card. For more information, visit rolltide. com. Carolyn Ezell Author Signing: Jan. 14, 11 a.m. to early afternoon. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Tuscaloosa. Local author Carolyn Ezell (Breckinridge) will be signing her two novels, “Tuscaloosa Moon” and “Tuscaloosa Boneyard.” Realizing the Dream Concert: Jan. 15, 7:30 p.m. Moody Music Concert Hall, University of Alabama campus. Legendary gospel artist Kirk Franklin will headline the 2017 Realizing the Dream Concert, part of the 28th 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, including tickets, call (205) 348-7111 or email community.affairs@ ua.edu. Travis Tritt Solo/Acoustic Show: Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. This Grammy Award-winning country artist will perform some of his biggest hits, including “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “It’s A Great Day to Be Alive” and “Best of Intentions.” Ticket prices are $59.75 and $49.75. For more information, call (205) 758-5195 or visit bamatheatre.org. Chinese New Year Celebration at CHOM: Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum, downtown Tuscaloosa. Kids can make their own dragons,
DCL Looks Back
Tuscaloosa opened its Holidays on the River last month on Dec. 6, complete with ice skating, music, dance performances and more. Holidays on the River is open until Jan.16. Photo courtesy of Melissa Wimberly.
masks and more. All activities are included in admission. For more information: (205) 349-4235 and chomonline. org. Hotel Capstone and iHeart Radio Annual Classic Bridal Show: Jan. 29, 1 to 4 p.m. Hotel Capstone, Tuscaloosa. Meet with premier wedding professionals while checking out the latest in bridal fashion and trendy décor. A gourmet food tasting will also be held, and participants can register for fabulous door prizes. For more information, visit the official Facebook page at facebook.com/ HotelCapstone. Homegrown Alabama Farmer’s Market: Thursdays, 3-6 p.m. 812 5th Avenue, Tuscaloosa. This University of Alabama student-run farmer’s market features vendors from all over the state, along with live music from local musicians. homegrownalabama.ua.edu; (205) 210-9621
Tuscaloosa Farmer’s Market: Saturdays, 7 a.m.noon. Tuscaloosa River Market, 1900 Jack Warner Blvd, Tuscaloosa. Shop for fresh produce, grass fed beef, baked goods, cheeses and more. Buy fresh, buy local. For more information, visit tuscaloosarivermarket.com or call (205) 248-5295.
Events you want to see here? Email us at: editor@druidcitymedia.com
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