Druid City Living March 2015

Tuscaloosa’s Feel-Good News

March 2015 - Volume 2, Issue 3

Classic Easter Recipes See Page 28 to learn how to cook the perfect Easter Sunday ham and the trick to moist carrot cake!

Sky High

Blue Angels return to Tuscaloosa for Regional Airshow Full Story on Pages 16-17

Sprayberry students find new home

Former Lloyd Wood Middle School to be renovated

By Cokie Thompson

Every spring brings fresh life, but the spring of 2016 will bring something extra special to Tuscaloosa County Schools and the families they serve.

The Tuscaloosa County School System is preparing to renovate what was once Lloyd Wood Middle School for its new Sprayberry Learning Center. Sprayberry serves students in the county who have multiple disabilities, in addition to housing several alternative classes.

Inside This Issue About Us City News Opinion Business Community Celebrations Schools Sports Home & Garden Food Marketplace

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Presorted Standard US Postage Paid Tuscaloosa, AL Permit No. 116

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The center has grown considerably since its inception in the 1970s after the first Americans with Disabilities Act regulations went into effect. Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Swinford said at the time, no one could have foreseen the number of students they would now be serving, specifically those in wheelchairs.

“As soon as I told some of the parents, it was just amazing to hear them say, ‘Dr. Swinford, you know we’ve been asking for this,’” Swinford said.

Continued on Page 20

2 ABOUT CEO Josh Watkins

Josh@druidcitymedia.com

March 2015

Photo of the Month To get your photo printed in Druid City Living, tag @druidcityliving on Instagram with your best picture of a place, event or person showing what it means to live in Tuscaloosa.

Publisher Heath Hendrix

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Executive Editor Laurie Mundy Perrigin Laurie@druidcitymedia.com Associate Editor Christopher Edmunds

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Director of Sales Tom Sommerville

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Sales Britney McComb Joshua Mays Caleb Skelton Office Manager LaTonya Mack Contact Us 256-346-5321 Druid City Living 1902 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Leroy McAbee, Sr. American Legion Post 34, Tuscaloosa, recently presented the American Legion Heroism medal to 9-year-old Cub Scout Benjamin Rose. Rose was awarded the Heroism Medal, the American Legion’s most prestigious award, for saving a drowning woman at Deerlick Creek in July of 2014. Benjamin is the son of Matt and Jennifer Rose of Tuscaloosa. Photo: Nicolas Britto.

4 CITY NEWS

March 2015

Mayor’s Minute Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Walter Maddox

I’ve mentioned before that the City of Tuscaloosa is experiencing great growth. We all see it and feel it in our great City. One of the fastest growing areas is across the Black Warrior River.

I am working with your City councilors and City staff to conduct a comprehensive review of our infrastructure and future placement of City assets. In the interim, we are moving forward with key projects that are critical to the area.

The Council has authorized $1 million in traffic improvements for Rice Mine Road from New Watermelon Road to the Paul W. Bryant Bridge. The improvements involve the purchase of rights-of-way (ROW) for the construction of one additional southbound lane through the Bryant Bridge intersection to provide a second left turn lane from Rice Mine Road to the Bryant Bridge. This will reduce congestion and delays during the peak hours of traffic.

Also, we will construct a southbound right turn to Ol’ Colony Road. Again, this additional lane should reduce congestion and delays during the peak hours of traffic. The engineering is in final design, and in the near future, the City will begin 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.

I firmly believe the McWrights Ferry Road improvement 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 it 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 two years to complete ROW acquisition and final design.

Please email me at mayor@tuscaloosa.com or send me a tweet (@WalterMaddox) with any questions or ideas you may have.

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walter Maddox is working to review the city’s infrastructure.

Photo Courtesy of the City of Tuscaloosa

Sincerely, Walter Maddox

The city of Tuscaloosa has gone GREEN with the Think Before You Toss!

Start Recycling in Tuscaloosa! Call 311 (205-248-5311) to Request a FREE Recycling Bin! ACCEPTED  Cardboard (corrugated, cereal boxes, etc...)

Please break down

 Newspapers & Magazines (any type)  Office Paper (junk mail, any color, etc…)

Bag for collection, staples, & plastic windows are ok

 Aluminum & Steel Cans  Plastics #1 (including bottles & trays) Plastic #2 Bottles Bottle tops & labels are OK  Plastic Film (grocery bags, dry cleaning bags, etc...)

Please bundle for collection

NOT ACCEPTED  Glass (not accepted until Summer 2015)  Metallic bags (i.e. inside cracker boxes)  Wax-lined containers  Diapers  Aluminum foil or plates  Plastics not listed on the accepted list

Place curbside recycling bin at the curb by 7:00 AM (6:00 AM during summer months) on your pick-up day to ensure collection.

Recycling is picked up the same day as your garbage and trash.

To request a new or additional recycling bin, call Tuscaloosa 311

Tuscaloosa Environmental Services Department 3440 Kauloosa Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 248-4900 www.tuscaloosa.com/recycle

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6 OPINION

March 2015

Lake Living: Why can’t every day be a little like Spring Break? by Allison Adams

Allison Adams

Spring fever is upon us. With tempting warm days (I actually sat in the sun and broke a sweat recently) snuggled between ice incidents, I am more than ready to see some blooms and feel the green grass of spring.

As we make plans for that much needed vacation or that week that the kids will be home expecting us to transform their lives into a near-Disney experience I wonder, “Why can’t every day be a bit like spring break?”

After all, much of what we get out of life is “all in the mind.”

According to Anthony Robbins, every human has basic needs in life.

Fill these needs while having fun:

Leaving Christmas lights up can set a Spring Break mood at home. Photo: Allison Adams

Certainty: While the definition is a moving target these days, think of the things kids love: hugs, snuggling, dinner around the kitchen table every night (a worthwhile stretch for the family with proven benefits), seeing mom and dad having fun together.

Variety: Hey, we’re only human.

We crave certainty but we also strive for variety. This is where spring break hooks us year after year, making us stir crazy. So, married people? Go “spring fever crazy” with your spouse. Have a great night out, and go somewhere neither of you have ever been.

Significance: What says special better than candles, fireworks, white lights, and a note on a mirror? Make someone feel appreciated.

Connection/Love: You love ‘em?

Show it! Google “The Five Love Languages” and then shock your significant other when you begin speaking his/her language.

Growth: Kids and adults want to grow and learn, experience new things.

Hiking, biking, riding horses, visiting a zoo - remember the things you did that made time stop. Explore something out of the box every week.

Contribution: We all want to make a difference. Offer a neighbor a night out together, let them reciprocate.

During spring break, volunteer with your kids. Use Volunteermatch.org to find places to volunteer in Tuscaloosa.

We all have these needs. Be the one who satisfies these needs in the people you love. Just last week, after some grim, cloudy days, the sun peeked out and short sleeves were in order. Immediately, my husband and I headed to the golf course. We didn’t schedule it. We grasped the moment. Whether it’s a surprise picnic or just a walk in a new park, make a rendezvous with your spouse/significant other.

Stuck at the office? What says “spring break” better than a coconut spray? Use it sparingly, or everyone might simply vacate the office. Post up some fun pics to remind you of places you have been, and make some whimsical plans after work.

Or really, if you feel inspired, just go grab a nice, cool popsicle one afternoon and enjoy a mini spring break from life.

Wherever you are, just remember to embrace the moment. Open your sunroof, people, and smell the sunshine!

Blessings to you for a creative spring break.

Blessings from Lake Tuscaloosa, Allison Adams The Artsy Realtor Duckworth Morris Real Estate (205) 914-2400 allison.adams@duckworth.com

OPINION 7

March 2015

The Land of Oz: Regarding Spring Break ...

by Derek Osborn

A monthly editorial piece of masterful opinionated writing (insert joke here) regarding life and times in the big town of Tuscaloosa coupled with the musings of a guy nicknamed “Oz.” It means many things to a variety of people, but spring break essentially marks the beginning of warmer weather to come and a precursor to the summer vacation season.

For some, spring break is a week of rest and actually being rewarded with a needed break from school or work. For others, it’s just another week of business as usual - other than being tasked with securing childcare and dealing with less traffic (which in itself is reason enough to celebrate).

But we all know what “Spring Break” has come to stand for. Through the years, the term has been generally recognized and directly correlating to partying, excess, and recreation that many would classify as “immoral.”

Now, I’m not your father. And I’m not going to pretend to be. But as Executive Director of PRIDE, I would be doing a disservice to my community in this small space I am allotted if I didn’t provide you with a few facts.

Approximately 1.6 million students will party over spring break.

Students will spend roughly a billion dollars during spring break in Texas and Florida alone.

Students will spend an average of $1,100.00 a week. Each. Less than half of it is attributed to travel and rent.

The average college student drinks about six drinks a week. One study found that the average Bradford Lipstick Half Pg Ad_Layout 1 12/4/14 2:43 PM Page 1 male student on spring break ingests about 18 drinks.

A day.

Half of all men and about 40 percent of women admit to drinking until they throw up or pass out while on spring break.

The most popular drug during spring break besides alcohol and marijuana is “molly” (or ecstasy). It is a synthetic drug that has been responsible for multiple overdoses and deaths, and it has recently been in the news for causing a rash of emergency room visits due to “bad batches.”

And there are plenty more statistics where that came from.

But the point is this: Nobody wants to keep anyone from enjoying the time off. What we do want is to see you come home alive and in the same condition in which you departed.

After all is said and advised, there is only one person that can make the decision that is right for you… and that is you. Be responsible, and remember that memories are a heck of a lot more memorable if you can remember them.

Follow me on Twitter @ozborn34.

Derek Osborn is the Executive Director of PRIDE of Tuscaloosa by trade and writer by hobby. He lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Lynn, and daughters Savannah and Anica.

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8 OPINION

March 2015

Give Life to Your Story: Authenticity by Mike Green In the winter of 1983, I walked through the doors I think of the people and relationships I made in those of the old Campus Life Teen Center off of 15th Street. days, and it is “authentic.” These people were real.

It was a building I had been in as a kid when it So much of my teenage and college years before was the Southern Grass Tennis Academy. I had spent Campus Life seemed to lack any of the honest remany summers swimming in the pool and playing lationships that I so eagerly desired. Many friends pinball with other youth my age. Now, as a college seemed focused on impressing me with the drinking student, I was drawn back to these familiar grounds. escapades.

That night I would meet a guy named Perry Liles.

My committed Christian friends wanted me to Perry was a volunteer with Campus Life and had believe they were perfect and somehow had “arinvited me to learn more about rived.” But here, I found others what the organization was doing like me who were still trying to for area high school students. figure life out and were honest That night I began to learn the enough to say so. This place nuts and bolts of Campus Life, created a safe environment for but what really impacted my teenagers and young adults to life was the people I met. actually have honest conversaThough I couldn’t quite tions about life, God, church, label what this ragtag group of and whatever the controversial teenagers and adults had going issues were of the day. for them, I sensed something I wish every person could exunique. And I wanted to be a perience what I found in Campart of it. pus Life. I can’t imagine my life So, what was it that made without these very special years this group so inviting? Yes, they of college. They have laid a – Mike Green – were Christians, and that resofoundation for my life and have nated with me. I had given my a whole lot to do with why I still life to Christ in junior high. And this group gave me am a part of Campus Life 32 years later. the opportunity to live out my faith. But there was So here is my point: Help your teen find this aumore. They were fun. thentic, safe, honest, challenging, and fun place to Campus Life in my college days was some of the lay a foundation for life. Create this place at home. most fun I have ever experienced. Trips to Gatlin- Find a youth group or youth ministry that will do the burg, Scream in The Dark, Burger Bashes, the electric same. In doing so you will change the course of your chair and more are the most vivid memories I have child’s life. of my college days. But that wasn’t really it either.

Mike Green is Executive Director of Tuscaloosa So what is it that made Campus Life, Campus Life? Youth For Christ/ Campus Life. He and his wife, There is one word that keeps coming to mind when Laura, have two grown children.

“I found others like me who were still trying to figure life out and were honest enough to say so.”

Kevin Davis

Mike and Laura Green

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OPINION 9

March 2015

The Mommy Chronicles: Potty Training “Now we don’t want to get the Ninja Turtles wet, do we?” by Marlena Rice Ninja Turtles. Dora. Doc McStuffins. Whomever holds your child’s fancy on television tends to be a good potty trainer. Why? No child wants to have an accident and wet their favorite friends!

As we begin preparing for the next grade up, preschool moms have a list of “to-dos” to conquer as our little ones grow.

As we work on enunciating our words and learning names and colors, potty training will be on the top of many of our lists.

I’ve heard all of the myths. Girls are easier to train than boys. Boys with daddies helping them in the bathroom are more successful than boys who are being trained by mommies. It’s not okay for your child to go past age two without being potty trained. The list goes on (and on, and on).

So far, in my journey away from Pamperdom, I’ve learned that the one saying that holds true is this: Every child is different, and he or she will use the potty when ready.

Here are a few tips that may shave that extra expense of diapers off of your grocery and household goods list sooner, rather than later: Incorporate Daily Play – One thing that has helped my husband and I in during our potty training venture is bringing our son’s favorite toys and books along for the ride. Months prior to beginning training, I ordered a book titled “Let’s Go Potty” from my preschool’s Scholastic book order. Now, while Beaux William is on the potty seat, we read together, and I can associate what the characters in the book are doing to what he is doing at the very same time.

Make Time – Potty training equals lots of time.

Working parents usually have the least amount

of time during a typical workday, but we can still be as effective as a stay at home parent if our timing is right.

Repetition is key when teaching a little person, so in the instance of potty training, it is important to talk about and visit the potty as often as possible. As soon as we wake Beaux in the morning, we take him to the potty. Even while he’s still waking up, he does his business – and we do a 6 a.m. celebration dance!

I also make sure that once we make it home around 5 p.m., we head straight to the potty once we get inside.

This is a challenging time of day because the family is ready to relax, eat dinner, all while doing all things unstructured, but taking 10 minutes before relaxing time will make your journey all the more successful.

Buy “Big Kid” Undies – It is a GREAT feeling buying that first pair of underwear and kudos to you if your little person gets to pick out their own. Do this early to jumpstart things. From personal experience, it definitely helps to have your child’s favorite cartoon character on their bottom.

Be Patient – I cannot tell you how many times I’ve watched my son snatch off his diaper and run “free” around our home. Make a game out of it like I do; I create a huge sense of urgency and tell Beaux that we have to run as fast as we can to the potty before we wet our friends! Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. When it works, it is awesome, and when it doesn’t, I tell myself that a little wetness on my floor is not a big deal in the grand scheme of things (there really are worse things in the world), as it is all a part of the learning process.

It is so easy for us to tell our little ones to let us

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know when they have to go, but the reality is, sometimes they don’t know until it happens as they are still getting to know their little bodies.

Remember, continuous encouragement will take you further in your teaching efforts.

This is an exclusive excerpt from DCL columnist Marlena Rice’s forthcoming book, “Pacifiers, Flatbeds and Kreg Jigs, a ‘Come to Jesus Guide’ for the New, Southern Mom.”

Try bringing toys or books to the potty. Photo: Marlena Rice

10 BUSINESS

March 2015

WEST ALABAMA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAPPENINGS Photos Courtesy of The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

Welcome, McCracken Family Chiropractic We recently welcomed new member McCracken Family Chiropractic with a ribbon cutting.

Located at 6521 Hwy 69 S., Ste. N., the great staff educates patients daily on health matters, weight loss tips, chiropractic care, wellness, and how the adjustments allow the natural ability of the body to heal by removing interference from the nervous system. Free, weekly classes are available on a variety of health-related subjects. For more information, call (205) 345-5035 or visit mccrackenfamilychiropractic.com.

New Orleans Steak & Seafood House Opens New Orleans Steak & Seafood House offers a wide selection of hand-cut and aged steak and seafood dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s located at 824 McFarland Blvd. in Northport. Call 205-248-7666 for more info. A ribbon cutting was held on Feb. 6.

Mercedes Benz USI Visitor Center Reopens The Mercedes Benz USI Visitor Center/Gift Shop reopened on Feb. 4 after being closed for renovations. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30a.m. to 4p.m.

(Closed Saturday, Sunday and major holidays.) Admission for the self-guided tour is free. The address is 6 Mercedes Dr. in Vance. Call (205) 507-2252 or visit www.mbusi.com/visitor-center for more info.

Tuscaloosa Teachers Credit Union Renamed Ribbon cuttings were held on Feb. 9 to commemorate the renovation of RiverFall Credit Union (formerly Tuscaloosa Teachers Credit Union) in Northport (1615 McFarland Blvd), as well as the newly-constructed RiverFall Credit Union on Highway 69 South (5461 Kauloosa Ave).

Grand Opening at Ryan Powell Allstate Agency The Chamber enjoyed a ribbon cutting and open house at the Ryan Powell Agency - Allstate.

Ryan helps families like yours to protect homes, cars, boats and more. His office is located at 2415 12th St. in Tuscaloosa.

For more information, call (205) 530-1981.

12 COMMUNITY

March 2015

Cooking for Kids: Annual Kiwanis Club Pancake Day set for March 28 Each year, the Kiwanis Club of Tuscaloosa cooks up thousands of pancakes for thousands of area residents, all for a cause: helping children.

This year’s annual Pancake Day is set for Saturday, March 28, at Central High School in Tuscaloosa, and organizers anticipate hungry crowds once again.

For over three decades, Kiwanis Club members and youth volunteers have worked hard on Pancake Day, with one objective – raising funding so the Club can donate to organizations that support children.

“Everything Kiwanis is involved in is children-related,” Kiwanis Club member John Burroughs said.

“Locally, our largest charity is ‘Reading is Fundamental,’ but we’re also co-sponsors at the UCP fair and Special Olympics. If it has to do with kids, we’ll probably be involved.”

The Annual Kiwanis Club of Tuscaloosa Pancake Day will be held from 6 a.m. to noon in the Central High School Cafeteria on March 28.

Tickets are $5 each, and they are available at the door, or can be bought from any Kiwanis Club member.

Burroughs said the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast is a great way to help support Kiwanis and all of its endeavors.

“This Pancake Breakfast is our major fundraiser for the year,” he said. “If we want to support local things, we have to have funding to do that. And we’re hands on – we’ll be out there on March 28 cooking pancakes for everyone.”

For more information, visit the Kiwanis Club of Tuscaloosa Facebook Page.

Kiwanis Club members serve thousands of pancakes as part of the group’s largest annual fundraiser. Photo: John Burroughs

Junior League to deliver dinners to doorsteps

The Junior League of Tuscaloosa will deliver fresh meals prepared to feed a family of four directly to doorsteps March 31.

Photo: Jessie Jones

The Junior League of Tuscaloosa’s latest fundraising effort is meant to provide some much-needed relief to busy moms in the area who just need a night off from cooking.

On Tuesday, March 31, JLT members will deliver “Dinner at Your Door” – fresh, local pre-prepared meals to feed a family of four.

Jessie Jones with JLT said Dinner at Your Door offers families a hearty dinner for a great cause.

“It’s a great way to have a delicious dinner for whatever you need,” Jones said. “You can bake it for your family when it arrives, or you can freeze it for a busy day in the future. We’ve even had people purchase dinners to deliver to new parents, or for a girls’ night in.”

Meals will be delivered directly to doorsteps in insulated Junior League cooler bags from 3 to 5 p.m.

Several area restaurants and vendors are offering contributing their services and products for the Dinner at Your Door program.

A meal will include fresh chips and salsa from Taco Mama, salad with dressing, yeast rolls, a choice of entrée (Mexican Lasagna, Homemade Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole or Pepperoni Spaghetti Bake), homemade cheesecake by Tammy Smith, and a choice of red (Rush Cabernet) or white (William Hill Chardonnay) wine.

Residents who participate in “Dinner at Your Door” also have the choice of including a Junior League of Tuscaloosa Winning Seasons cookbook or the Tuscaloosa Sketchbook.

The total cost for a meal for four is $65.

Orders can be placed through the Junior League of Tuscaloosa’s website at www.jltuscaloosa.org.

COMMUNITY 13

March 2015

Playing Local: Spending spring break in T-town After a chilly winter, spring break is a welcomed week filled with sunshine, warmer temps, and outof-town trips. If your spring break plans keep you local, don’t fret. Tuscaloosa offers a wide variety of activities to entertain both you and your kids.

For parents who aren’t able to take the whole week off work while their kids are off for spring break, you’re in luck. The Tuscaloosa Park and Recreation Authority is offering a Spring Break Day Camp during the week of March 16-20. The camp will be held at two locations, the Belk Center and the Phelps Center. Both locations will host a variety of activities, including exercise programs, arts and crafts, and sports. There will alsobe swimming trips to the Faucett Center, lunch at Cici’s Pizza, and bowling.

Day camp will be held from 6:30 a.m. until 5:45 p.m. and is $27 per child, per day. Be sure to ask about sibling discounts. For more information, visit tcpara.org or contact Melinda Wiggins at (205) 5623230 or mwiggins@tcpara.org.

If you’re looking for a great place for the whole family, try the Children’s Hands on Museum. With a variety of exciting and educational exhibits, it’s is a great place for the whole family to learn and explore. On March 17, CHOM will host an all-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration, featuring Irish River Lore with Riverboat John and a Leprechaun hunt. Both activities are included in museum admission. For more information please visit CHOM’s website or contact the museum at (205) 349-4235.

by Candice Morris

While the weather is nice, be sure to visit one of Tuscaloosa’s many outdoor areas. With a variety of parks in town, you’re sure to find a great spot for a picnic or your favorite outdoor activity. Enjoy a walk along Tuscaloosa’s RiverWalk or through the University of Alabama’s Arboretum. Both locations offer the opportunity to discover nature. And get your four-legged friend involved in spring break. Take your dogs to the Will May Dog Park, located inside Munny Sokol Park.

Looking for an indoor activity that is still active?

Lace up your bowling shoes and head over to either AMF Bama Lanes or Leland Lanes. Both offer a fun, family friendly activity that is sure to please.

Whether you’re one of the lucky adults who has spring break off or you’re a parent who just needs a break from the kids, Tuscaloosa offers some non-kid related activities to enjoy. Take advantage of smaller crowds in town and try that restaurant you’ve been meaning to visit, or go to the movies to catch that film you’ve been itching to see. Learn more about Tuscaloosa’s local breweries, such as Druid City Brewing Company or Black Warrior Brewing Company, by visiting their taprooms and sampling some of their beers.

Tuscaloosa offers many activities for all ages during spring break, proving that it can be just as fun to stay local during your time off.

The UA Arboretum offers a free outdoor experience that is family friendly. Photo: Laurie Perrigin

Locally owned DCH Home Health Care Agency is ranked among the top home health agencies in the country on the 2014 HomeCare Elite List. As part of the DCH Health System, we offer continuous care from the hospital to your home that can’t be matched by other home health care agencies. No wonder so many of our neighbors count on us to help them maintain the comfort, dignity and independence of living at home.

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14 COMMUNITY

Eloquent Rejection

March 2015

A letter from Harper Lee

Mark Mayfield was working as the executive editor of Southern Accents magazine when he made a bold inquiry to one of America’s most beloved authors ever – Nelle Harper Lee. “I wrote to her, asking if she would consider writing an essay on southern photography to coincide with an exhibit we were featuring,” Mayfield said. “This letter is her wonderful response. She declined, but it’s the nicest turndown I’ve ever had.”

This letter exemplifies Lee’s charm and eloquence.

“She was emphatic, of course, in the letter that I contact Eudora Welty,” Mayfield said. “I did just that, calling Ms. Welty, but she told me she just felt too ill to write at that time.”

News that a sequel to Lee’s cherished novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” titled “Go Set a Watchman,” is being published this spring has sparked joy – and some concern. But regardless, this letter once again serves to remind all of us that Nelle Harper Lee is beloved with good reason.

Mark Mayfield is editorial adviser to student publications, and an adjunct journalism professor at UA. He’s a former editor-in-chief of four magazines, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Accents and Art & Antiques, and spent 10 years early in his career as a reporter for USA Today. Mayfield also writes for Crimson Magazine.

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16 COMMUNITY

Photos Courtesy of Ronnie Walker

March 2015

COMMUNITY 17

March 2015

at the

Airfield

Regional Airshow returns to Tuscaloosa The 2015 Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show is set for Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29 at the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport.

Thousands of spectators are expected to attend the twoday show, which features the Blue Angels. This elite squad of Navy and Marine Corps jet pilots will once again give stunning aerial demonstrations in the Navy’s F/A-18 Hornet and the C-130T Hercules aircraft, affectionately known as “Fat Albert.”

“We welcome the Blue Angels and other air show participants back to Tuscaloosa,” Tuscaloosa Mayor Walter Maddox said. “This is a great event for our area and I hope that everyone makes plans to attend.”

The 2015 Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show, presented by Pepsi, will begin at noon both days. The air show theme, “Operation Inspiration,” strives to inspire children and create opportunities to soar through this community event.

All total, the Blue Angels have 65 shows scheduled at 36 locations during the 2015 season. This will mark the

fourth time the Blue Angels have performed at the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport since 2009, the most recent being in 2012. That year, more than 11 million spectators saw a Blue Angels performance.

The Blue Angels’ name was picked by the original team when they were planning a show in New York in 1946. One of them came across the name of the city’s famous Blue Angel nightclub in the New Yorker Magazine.

The first Blue Angels air show was at Craig Field in Jacksonville, Florida, on June 15, 1946. Since then, the Blue Angels have performed for more than 495 million fans.

Air show tickets may be purchased at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater box office or online through Ticketmaster.

Tickets may also be purchased each day of the event at the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport by cash. There will be ATMs on site. General admission is $5 for ages 13 years and up.

Admission is free for children ages 12 and under.

For more information about the 2015 Tuscaloosa Regional Air show, visit www.tuscaloosaregionalairshow.com

CELEBRATIONS 19

March 2015

Pilot Club rewards local essay contest winners The Pilot Club of Tuscaloosa recently held its annual Patriotic Essay Contest for 5th grade students in Tuscaloosa area schools. Pilot Club members, the winning students, their teachers and principals were all in attendance at the meeting, held in the Fellowship Hall of Forest Lake United Methodist Church.

The students shared their winning essays with the group, and received their cash awards, ribbons and certificates.

The Pilot Club of Tuscaloosa continues to be an advocate for children. The club sponsors Brain Minders (bicycle safety) for pre-K, K, 1st and 2nd graders, Project Help (a tutorial summer program), scholarships for UA students and GED scholarships for Shelton State students.

Pilot Club is international with its main focus on brain-related injuries and /or prevention thereof. This month, Pilot Club celebrates its 93rd birthday, having been established in 1922. The club continues to grow and welcomes new members at any time.

Kiwanis The Patriotic Essay Contest Winners were (L to R): First place, Mary Allen Richardson (Verner Elementary), second place, Stephanie Sidje (Verner Elementary), third place, Marie Mewes (Holy Spirit School), and Amelia Carroll, Pilot Club member and Patriotic Chairperson. Photo: Amelia Carroll

Community Foundation of West Alabama donates $50,000 toward Salvation Army’s ‘Center of Hope’

Photo: Glenn Taylor

The Community Foundation of West Alabama recently donated $50,000 to the Salvation Army of Tuscaloosa, to help fund the Center of Hope.

Glenn Taylor of the CFWA made the presentation to Ken Swindle of the Salvation Army.

The Center of Hope homeless shelter is located at the corner of Greensboro Avenue and 29th Street. The old facility was destroyed in the April 2011 Tuscaloosa tornado.

Ground was broken for the new shelter in September, with hopes of having the project completed by later this year.

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20 SCHOOLS SPRAYBERRY

March 2015

continued from page 1

Carla Allen is the president of the Sprayberry Parent Teacher Organization. Her daughter has attended Sprayberry since she was three.

“When Sprayberry was built, most students were ambulatory,” Allen said. “The classrooms are just not big enough.”

Although the renovations will be complete before the end of the 2015 - 2016 school year, probably around spring break, the students, faculty and staff will not move to Lloyd Wood until the following school year. Swinford said it’s important to keep the students’ lives consistent.

“Just one week off and then come back to a new school and then just for two, three months maybe, and then go back on summer vacation is just too much for them,” Swinford said.

When the renovations are complete, Swinford said she hopes for a big celebration for the students. The entire system will be involved, including a banner for the students to run through from the Tuscaloosa County High cheerleaders.

“The kids are planning for the Sprayberry kids, which is the beauty of my school system, where my kids are very united,” Swinford said. “They don’t see differences.”

Sprayberry Principal Neal Guy said the new facilities will help better serve their current student body.

Some of the changes include a covered entrance for rainy days and bigger playgrounds.

“It’s very specific to the needs of the population of students that we have,” Guy said. “The major change

will be that all the alternative classes for the entire county will be on one campus.”

Sprayberry currently houses some of the alternative classes for the county, but classes are also at Holt High and Tuscaloosa County High. In addition to the alternative program and new facilities for Sprayberry, the renovated facility will include some space for career and technical sources. These courses will also be open to students who don’t attend Sprayberry

through the alternative or disability programs.

“We’re excited about the whole prospect and looking forward to it,” Guy said.

When the facility is completed, Allen said she expects plenty of opportunities for the community to see it. She said the current facility doesn’t look great, but the new one will be a breath of fresh air.

“It’s going to be fabulous,” Allen said. “I wish it was here yesterday.”

A drawing on the sidewalk of Lloyd Wood Middle School reminds students to “Dream.” Photo: Christopher Chase Edmunds

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SCHOOLS 21

March 2015

Rock Quarry Elementary celebrates ‘Math Night’ Parents experience new Common Core way of learning mathematics

By Alicia Jenne’

The idea of creating and hosting Math Night at Rock Quarry Elementary was investigated a few years ago by a small group of teachers who learned about the new Common Core State Standards via Professional Learning Groups hosted

by AMSTI and The University of Alabama In-Service Center.

Many veteran teachers, like Denise Prowell and Shea Stroud were already utilizing Number Talks (purposeful conversations with students about the way they see numbers), as well as whole group math instruction and small group math stations (where students work together to play math games to strengthen mathematical thinking) but they knew that a key component was missing.

They wanted to show the families of their school children how important this new way of thinking and talking about math could be.

In the fall of 2014, the first parent-only Math Night came to fruition.

During the session, families met in one of four locations in the school where a group of teachers, grades K-5, walked participants through the same standards, showing how the learning scaffolds as students advance across grade levels.

On exit slips following the first session, parents overwhelmingly asked for

more interaction with this different way of thinking and for help in demystifying the new approach to mathematics.

Second grade teacher Shea Stroud said her goal was to facilitate in rectifying the parents misconceptions about Common Core math and to alleviate their fears about conceptual based mathematics.

“By equipping parents to confidently help their children complete math homework using proven strategies, both students and parents can better understand how to ‘do’ math,” Stroud said.

Rock Quarry Elementary School’s second Family Math Night was held Feb.19. Over 80 parents and students attended the one-hour event where they met with their child’s grade level, played math games, had discussions about the teaching and learning that goes on in class, and worked problems alongside their children.

Parents were able to receive grade-level specific information in an intimate, small-group setting. This allowed them to use the same math manipulatives that are used in class, enabling them to experience first-hand the innovativeways in which their students are learning.

The new math standards are encouraging students to think deeper and to

Sadie Jane and Marcus Lyon and Jimmy, Jane and Ella Wang play Capture 300 in Mrs. Zielger’s classroom at Rock Quarry Elementary. Photo: Tuscaloosa City Schools

apply that thinking to explain and solve real-world problems, often in more than one way.

In the past, math was learned as a series of memorized facts, formulas, shortcuts or tricks. The Common Core standards differ from the previous approach in that they emphasize the concepts behind mathematical operations and stress that there are multiple ways to arrive at the same answer.

Ask any kindergartener to solve an addition problem (composing numbers) and chances are he or she can give several strategies he could use to get the answer.

From the feedback gathered after Family Math Night, it was deemed a success. Parents, students and teachers enjoyed playing and learning together while having grand conversations about math strategies.

First grade teacher Denise Prowell summed up the experience best.

“This fun, shared experience promotes family involvement with mathematics,” Prowell said. “Family engagement is strongly connected to student learning. Events such as Family Math Night help to build a strong family-school partnership and help create a sense of community.”

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22 SCHOOLS

March 2015

Scholar Bowl team sets school record The Holy Spirit Catholic Middle School Scholar Bowl team recently won the regional ASCA competition and earned a place in the state meet. The team set a school record for the most points ever achieved in a single round.

Holy Spirit High School Senior Chace Lake earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He is a member of Troop 7 sponsored by Holy Spirit Church. For his project, he built tables for Holy Spirit Catholic School. Lake is the son of Lisa and George Lake of Tuscaloosa. Photo: Laurie Mitchell

Pictured, Top row (L to R): Sophie Livaudais, Ben Midkiff and Layne Goodbread.

Bottom row (L to R): Josiah Gleason, Alex Williams (captain) and Alex Krallman Photo: Laurie Mitchell

24 SPORTS March 2015 Students represent Tuscaloosa Academy in AISA All-Star game Several students represented Tuscaloosa Academy at the 2015 AISA All-Star Basketball Game, held on Feb. 20 at Saint James School in Montgomery.

Great job, everyone!

AISA All-Star cheerleaders included (L to R, sitting): Elizabeth Moseley and Anna Grace Godoy; (L to R, standing): MaryGrace Reed, Hallie Harrison, and Lillie Sansing.

Photo: Crosby Thomley Tuscaloosa Academy’s Sam Brown and Harrison Standeffer played in the AISA All-Star game.

Photo: Chelsea McKenna

Several TA students participate in Alabama Kids Mercedes Marathon Several Tuscaloosa Academy students in grades K-4 participated in the Alabama Kids Mercedes Marathon, held Feb. 21. TA Headmaster, Dr. Espy, ran in the 14th Annual Mercedes-Benz Marathon on Sunday, Feb. 22. Congrats to all!

(Front Row from Left to Right) : Jonathan Kneer, Donald Abney, Joseph Hardin, Sascha Kuechler, Anne Marie Henderson and Isaac Henderson (Middle Row): Charles Abney, Noah Doenges, Silas Stohler, Emma Kronauer, Oliver Kneer and Dr. Isaac Espy (Back Row): Fabian Eschenfeld, Raphael Doenges, Eva Marie Doenges, Olivia Stohler and Sally Poole Photo: Chelsea McKenna

SPORTS 25

March 2015

PROUD to bleed CRIMSON Broadcast personality Chris Stewart never hides love for Alabama

By Stan J. Griffin

As a Crimson Tide Sports Network personality, Chris Stewart interviews coaches and players on a regular basis for various television and radio broadcasts. Photo: Dan Deem

There is no doubt that many television and radio personalities spend years carefully crafting and cultivating public personas and images that often turn out to be radically different from who they genuinely are as human beings.

With Crimson Tide Sports Network (CTSN) personality Chris Stewart, however, the person that you — Chris hear on his daily radio show or during University of Alabama game broadcasts or that you see on various Crimson Tide-related shows such as The Nick Saban Show is very much the same individual you experience even when he is not on the air.

And the 44-year-old native of Fairfield does not try to hide the fact that he grew up bleeding Crimson, and still does to this day. This is easily evident in the voice of the University of Montevallo grad during an especially electric Crimson Tide victory or a particularly crushing Alabama defeat.

Stewart, who attended high school at Central Park Christian, has over 25 years of broadcast experience going back to his college days. The husband of Christy Stewart and the father of three who has displayed his skills on outside networks such as ESPN Regional and Fox Sports South, Stewart’s

labor of love relative to UA athletics, that for people who have known me for game as accurately as I can, and to be wears many hats for CTSN. my whole life or for an extended period as fair as I can,” he said. “But when Stewart is the sideline radio reporter of it, seeing the pleasure they get out of I’m doing an Alabama game, and I’m during University of Alabama football watching me at this stage of my career, talking to Alabama people, and I’m games, the televi- and how for so many of them, they compensated by a company that has sion host for Saban’s seem to take ownership of that, and I’m Crimson Tide in its name, nobody has weekly show, is in thankful they do. I am glad that people ever told me that I have to be impartial, his 13th year of serv- who have known me are able to share and nobody has ever told me that I ing as the radio play- that. And they would be proud of me if have to act like I don’t care if we lose, by-play announcer I was doing this at several other places. because I do care. The people whose for Tide basketball But I am very, very blessed.” games I’m broadcasting care, the playand his 16th season Stewart said although he takes pride ers and coaches, and Lord knows, our of serving as the in being totally professional with his fans care. On the flipside, you better radio broadcaster job duties, he has never felt pressured believe I’m happy when things go well Stewart for UA baseball. He or obliged to hide or tone down his because it makes the job a lot easier. serves as host of love of UA sports in any fashion.

You want to see people that you get to Tide TV This Week, “I’ve got a responsibility to call the know, like, and respect, succeed.” the Anthony Grant Show and the Dana Duckworth Show, and will be serving as the host of Hey Coach through the end of the current academic year. And if he was not busy enough, Stewart has also been known to call a little prep football on Friday nights.

While there is no doubt he is spread a bit thin at times, Stewart said he feels blessed, especially having the opportunity to serve as a voice for the iconic school he grew up cheering for.

“I have been an Alabama fan my whole life,” Stewart said. “I could do what I do a few other places, and professionally might be perceived to be the same thing, but to do what I do here is incredibly special for two reasons.

The passion I have for UA athletics is genuine. Living and dying on virtually every play is something I have virtually done my whole life. The other part is Stewart has over 25 years of broadcast experience. Photo Courtesy of Chris Stewart

The passion I have for UA athletics is genuine.

March 2015

HOME & GARDEN 27

Alabama Wildflower Society selling variety of plants for April 4 fundraiser

By Nancy Campbell The local chapter of the Alabama Wildflower Society is holding its annual native plant sale on Saturday, April 4 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kentuck Center courtyard in downtown Northport.

Don’t be misled by the name of the organization: There will be a lot for sale in addition to wildflowers.

Plants offered will include flowering vines, native ferns, groundcovers, and lots of shrubs and trees, such as dogwoods, redbuds, butterfly bushes, blueberry bushes, native hydrangeas, sweet shrub, and several varieties of native azaleas, all with some of the lowest prices to be found in the area.

“Here is where you can get some real bargains,” said Alice Taylor, past-president of the local non-profit group.

Wildflowers offered for sale typically include columbine, coneflowers, coreopsis, Lenten roses, spiderwort, and native irises and violets.

Items for sale are obtained from out-of-state nurseries specializing in native plants and from members of the Alabama Wildflower Society who contribute plants from their own gardens and property.

While most plants sold are indigenous to the Southeast, a few non-native but traditionally favorite “pass-a-long” plants are also offered.

One local resident, Harris Cornett of Northport, purchased a perennial dark red salvia bush five years ago that has come back every spring

and bloomed for four months, attracting numerous butterflies and hummingbirds. He also purchased a perennial blue daisy that same year which blooms for about two months every summer.

Purchases will help further education about and preservation of Alabama’s native plant life.

Proceeds from the sale every year go toward college scholarships to botany majors in Alabama colleges and universities. Smaller amounts go to the local Arboretum and the Cahaba Lily Society.

“The sale will take place rain or shine,” Taylor said. “However, you should try to get there early for the best selections.”

Dozens of different kinds of local plants will be available at the April 4 sale.

Photo: Nancy Campbell

Customers browse among plants offered at the annual Alabama Wildflower Society’s native plant sale. Photo: Nancy Campbell

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28 FOOD

March 2015

TASTE OF TUSCALOOSA Enjoying Sunday jazz brunch at FIVE

According to Webster’s Dictionary, brunch is defined as a meal that combines breakfast and lunch that is usually eaten in late morning. However, at FIVE Bar and Restaurant in Tuscaloosa, brunch is a Sunday experience that brings together old friends, good music, and great food and drinks. With a high reputation among foodies in Tuscaloosa, FIVE Bar and Restaurant has been no stranger to providing T-town folks with a memorable dining experience.

Known for their signature dinner entrees and coffee/juice bar, FIVE has now expanded to providing a Jazz Brunch for all to enjoy.

Coming to Jazz Brunch at FIVE for the first time, I had no idea what to expect other than something amazing. Scanning the menu, I went with a traditional chicken and waffles complemented with an appetizer of avocado toast and refreshing OJ. Looking around the restaurant, I noticed an area dedicated to a host of bloody mary ingredients as well as an extremely attentive wait staff. The character of décor at FIVE made me feel like I had been transported to a hybrid location of New Orleans and SoHo New York.

It wasn’t long before the gorgeous display of avocado toast, OJ, and chicken and waffles graced my table. Walnuts, powdered sugar, and maple syrup perfected both the waffles and fried chicken in a salty sweet symphony. The fresh flavor of herbs on my avocado toast confirmed the freshness of the ingredients used. Although the food was excellent, the atmosphere at FIVE was incomparable to any other brunch experience in town.

Served on Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., diners can expect to enjoy the stylized tunings of live Jazz music, fresh squeezed OJ, and a myriad of ingredients for an epic bloody mary. Staying true to form, FIVE offers five different brunch entrée options including a breakfast burrito, frittata, chicken and waffles, crab cake benedict, and breakfast cheeseburger. No brunch is complete without an option of mimosas and bellinis. Made-from-scratch beignets served up with a caramel-apple reduction confirm with your taste buds that you made the right dining selection.

Jazz Brunch in Tuscaloosa is an experience to share with out of town guests or an excuse to get together with your favorite friends and co-workers. Five Restaurant is located at 2324 6th Street in downtown Tuscaloosa. For more information about FIVE including food and drink specials, visit www.five-bar.com.

Sheena Gregg is a registered dietitian and local “Filipino Foodie.” Follow her adventures at www. afilipinofoodie.com

FIVE offers a Sunday jazz brunch complete with live music and a bloody mary bar. Photo: Sheena Gregg

by Sheena Gregg

Above: The Jazz Brunch menu includes chicken and waffles, a breakfast cheeseburger and the FIVE burrito.

Below: FIVE’s brunch offers diners a fresh, hip Sunday dining experience in downtown Tuscaloosa. Photos: Sheena Gregg

FOOD 29

March 2015

March Recipes: Easter classics sure to be a hit Are you planning the perfect Easter dinner at your house this year? Here are two of my favorite recipes that are sure to please everyone at the Easter table.

First: The ham! This is the Best. Ham. Ever.

The orange slices and the Coke and the mustard just give this ham the most incredible flavor.

by Amy Poore

And of course, what Easter gathering would be complete without carrot cake? This super moist carrot pineapple cake is a new twist on an old favorite. It’s packed with flavor and yes, I use baby food to make it so moist.

I hope you have as much fun preparing these scrumptious dishes for your family as I do.

Happy Easter, and bon appétit!

Best Ham Ever • 6-8 lb. bone-in, cured ham • ½ cup light brown sugar • 1/3 cup prepared Dijon mustard • 1 orange, cut into wedges • 1½ cups of Coke • 1 large turkey baking bag

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Score the ham 1/4 inches down in a diamond pattern.

Place the ham in the baking bag on its bottom (cut side out). Place bag on a pan.

Mix mustard and sugar together in a small bowl until combined. Spread mixture over the ham (in the bag).

Place orange wedges around the base of the ham and pour coke around the bottom on the ham (not over the top – you do not want to wash your sugar mixture up).

With a puff of air into the bag, close the opening tightly and with a sharp knife, cut three, 1-inch slits on the top of the bag.

Cook 1.5 – 2 hours.

Let ham rest for 30 minutes before serving.

Super Moist Carrot Pineapple Cake

Cake • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 cups sugar • 2 teaspoons baking soda • 2 teaspoons cinnamon • 1 teaspoon salt • 1¼ cups vegetable oil • 4 eggs • 2 jars (6 oz each) carrot baby food • 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained • ¾ cup chopped walnuts Frosting • 1 block cream cheese (8 oz.), softened • ½ butter, softened • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 box (1 lb) confectioners’ sugar • Chopped walnuts (optional) In a large bowl, stir to combine the dry ingredients.

Add the oil, eggs and baby food and mix on low speed with a hand mixer until well blended.

Stir in pineapple and nuts.

Pour into a greased and floured 9x13 pan. Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to wire racks to cool completely.

For frosting, in a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in vanilla and confectioners’ sugar until the mixture reaches spreading consistency.

Remove the cake from the pan, frost top and sides. Garnish with nuts if desired.

Store in the refrigerator.

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 Photos: Amy Poore

30 CALENDAR

March 2015

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sundown Lecture Series: March 12, 5:15-6:30 p.m. Jemison Van de Graaff Mansion, downtown Tuscaloosa. The Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society presents “Dr. George H. Denny 1912-1936,” with speaker Delbert Reed. This event is free to TCPS members; $5 for non-members. For more information, visit www.HistoricTuscaloosa.org or call Lucy Murphy at (205) 394-1648.

Grand OLLI Gala: March 12, 6:00 p.m. Bryant-Denny Stadium in the Zone (North). Come hear motivational speaker Jeremiah Castille, live music from the band Sweet Licks, enjoy an Irish menu, green beer, and a live and silent auction. The Gala is free for OLLI members and $25 to join. For more information: (205) 348-6482.

21st Druid Arts Awards: March 12, 7 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. A reception honoring the 2015 winners and their families will be held at 6 p.m. in the Greensboro Room. Tickets: $10. For more information, call (205) 758-5195.

TSO “Introducing…” Family Discovery Concert and Instrument Petting Zoo: March 13, 5 p.m. (Instrument Petting Zoo) and 6 p.m. (concert).

MARCH

Moody Hall, UA campus. For those young and young at heart, the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra offers a concert to celebrate and introduce the orchestra, as well as a special “Instrument Petting Zoo” by the TSO Guild. For more information, including concert tickets, call (205) 752-5515 or visit tsoonline.org.

Fishin’ for a Mission: March 14, safe light until 3:30 p.m. Binion Creek Landing on Lake Tuscaloosa.

This bass tournament, sponsored by Bama Buggies and Southeast Auction, benefits Eagles’ Wings, Inc. Registration: $110 (includes Big Fish). For more information: (205) 345-5484.

HOWA Family 5K: March 28, 8 a.m. Hospice of West Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Registration for this annual 5K race begins at 7 a.m. This year’s theme is the “Star in Our Hearts.” For more information, contact HOWA at (205) 523-0101.

12th Annual Doctor’s Day 10K & Fun Run: April 4, 8 a.m. (10K) and 9:30 a.m. (Fun Run). Sokol Park, Tuscaloosa. Breakfast will be served and an Easter egg hunt will be held for kids. 10K: $20, Fun Run: $10. For more information, contact brookeRbarton@gmail.com.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama Shining Stars: April 7, 6 p.m. Cypress Inn Pavilion, Tuscaloosa. This fundraiser features an evening of fun and performances, along with special guest speakers, Coach Gene Stallings and Jay Deas. Cost: $100 per person, $175 per couple. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, Danielle McInerney or Amber Lucas at (205) 758-5734.

Tuscaloosa Belles Easter Egg Hunt: March 29th, 3-5 p.m. Battle-Friedman House, Tuscaloosa. Hosted by the Junior Tuscaloosa Belles. Activities include the egg hunt, visits with the Easter Bunny, games and prizes, a petting zoo from Tuscaloosa Barnyard, and a raffle for the adults. $5.00 per adult; first 2 children are free, $2.00 for every child after. For more information, visit www.historictuscaloosa.org or call (205) 758-2238.

9th Annual Duck Derby: March 29, 2-5 p.m.

University of Alabama Outdoor Pool. The Children’s HandsOn Museum presents the Duck Derby, which features prizes, refreshments and music for the whole family. Cost per duck: $5.00. For more information: (205) 349-4235 or visit chomonline.org.

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