September 2020 | Volume 8 | Issue 9
DruidCityLiving.com
Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper
Do you need a stress ball, Tuscaloosa?
Local Mom Says She Does Page 15
INSIDE THIS ISSUE About Us...............2 Schools...........7 City.......................3 Community.......8 Opinion..............18 Food...................22 Business...............6
@DruidCityLiving
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Recycling Pick up Suspended
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Tales of Tuscaloosa: When the “Watery Chimes” Stopped
(Here’s where to take it)
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Volunteering is a Family Affair for the Simons
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Taste of Tuscaloosa: Pregnancy Cravings Solved
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Druid City Living | September 2020
ABOUT US PHOTO OF THE MONTH CEO
Josh Watkins
Publisher
Hanson Watkins
Editor
Laurie Mundy Perrigin editor@druidcitymedia.com
Account Manager Caroline Ford
caroline@druidcitymedia. com
Advertise With Us
For advertising inquiries, contact us at contact@ druidcityliving.com or 205.575.3156 or Jim Watkins at 205.937.0180 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.
CORRECTIONS To report corrections and clarifications, email editor@druidcitymedia.com
UA Crossing Points student Melissa Walker was recently awarded the Ruby’s Rainbow Warriors for Walt Scholarship. Walker, a member of CrossingPoints’ Certificate in Occupational Studies Program and a Tuscaloosa native, is the first UA CrossingPoints student to receive the scholarship from Ruby’s Rainbow – a national nonprofit organization that grants scholarships to adults with Down syndrome seeking post-secondary education, enrichment, or vocational classes. In addition to serving as a CCOS ambassador, Walker is a UA Student Government Association representative, and a member of the Afro American Gospel Choir and Sigma Alpha Lambda. In 2019, she won first place in the inaugural Miss Unique UA pageant. Photo: University of Alabama
FROM THE EDITOR
Each month, I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to help bring our readers stories and columns that reflect the best of who we are here in the Druid City. As everyone who lives here knows, we are a strong, resilient community, and we know how to help when help is needed. Many of our residents are struggling. Many are hurting. Some have lost loved ones to COVID-19. To all who are feeling the worst effects of this horrible pandemic, we here at Druid City Living offer our deepest condolences to those lost and our heartfelt support. Also, to our teachers: thank you. You are truly the backbone of our community – and whether you’re teaching virtually, in person, or a combo of both, we appreciate everything you’re doing to educate the youngest Tuscaloosa residents. Roll Tide.
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CITY
Mayor’s Minute
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As Mayor of the City of Tuscaloosa, I recognize the important work being done around the country improving police departments to better serve and protect their citizens. I also recognize that our neighborhoods are still faced with crime, poverty, and blight. Over the last few months, I have listened, and I have learned that things I thought were working are not working. I have learned I have not done enough. It is time for all of us to do more. In August, the City of Tuscaloosa took the steps to do more. We will transform how our police department operates both internally through recruiting and training our officers and externally through how we engage our community and the people we serve. We will enhance educational, economic, housing, and recreational opportunities while reducing crime and poverty that disproportionally affects our minority communities. CHIEF BLANKLEY AND I HAVE MET WITH DOZENS OF CITIZENS, COMMUNITY LEADERS, EDUCATORS, PASTORS, ELECTED OFFICIALS, AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS TO LISTEN, LEARN, AND SHAPE A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR COMMUNITY POLICING EFFORTS IN TUSCALOOSA.
Additionally, the City has hosted three virtual town hall meetings via Facebook Live so that we can get as much community input as possible. That being said, it is not enough to simply listen and to have passion. Passion has to transition to policy, and policy has to transition to results. The result of our community meetings and conversations is the driving force behind our new community engagement initiative, Project Unity. OUR CITY IS NOT A STRANGER TO WORKING TO DO MORE FOR OUR COMMUNITY, AND PROJECT UNITY IS THE CITY’S INITIATIVE DESIGNED TO BRIDGE GAPS BETWEEN OUR OFFICERS AND THE COMMUNITY WHILE CREATING EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL CITIZENS.
Project Unity is comprised of two committees with unique goals; the Mayor’s Alliance for Opportunity and Advancement, and the Chief’s Commission for Community Policing. The Mayor’s Alliance for Opportunity and Advancement will focus on enhancing educational, economic, housing, and recreational opportunities while reducing crime, poverty, and blight. The Chief’s Commission for Community Policing will focus on sustaining positive, lasting bonds between the Tuscaloosa Police Department and the communities they serve while enhancing recruitment, training, and retainment of the most qualified and diverse workforce. Both committees are comprised of community leaders, city officials and police officers working together to create a safer and stronger community. We all must do something with this moment to continue to build strong relationships between the city, our police department, and the citizens we serve every day. The City is taking great steps to do more, and I look forward to working with you as we continue to shape the future of our city. To get involved, or to learn more about Project Unity and provide community feedback, please visit Tuscaloosa.com/Unity.
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Druid City Living | September 2020
CITY Curbside Recycling Service Remains Temporarily Suspended, Drop-Off Sites Opened BY DCL STAFF
Mayor Walt Maddox and the City Council opted to temporarily suspend the curbside recycling collection service in the City of Tuscaloosa. The suspension began on July 20. The City has seen a dramatic increase in the amount of trash (yard waste and large debris) for curbside pickup in 2020, with nearly double the volume of trash collected in the last three months compared to this time in 2019. Crew members are being diverted from recycling routes to trash routes to assist in collection of this additional volume. A city-wide hiring freeze has also been lifted for the Environmental Service Department to fill vacancies. Recycling drop-off sites will remain open and free of charge while curbside recycling is suspended. Additional, manned drop-off sites will also open at a different location each regular route day (Monday through Thursday) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to assist residents with recycling during this time. Locations are:
MONDAYS
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAYS
MCDONALD HUGHES COMMUNITY CENTER, 3101 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD.
SKYLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 408 SKYLAND BLVD. E.
BOWERS PARK, 1600 JAMES I HARRISON JR. PKWY., AND ALBERTA SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS, 2700 UNIVERSITY BLVD. E.
SOKOL PARK, 5260 WATERMELON RD. THE RICHARD A CURRY ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLEX (3440 KAULOOSA AVE.) WILL ALSO BE MANNED FOR RECYCLING DROP-OFF FROM 8 A.M. TO 4 P.M., MON THROUGH FRI
Why sit in a waiting room when you’re not feeling well? With our new online check-in, you don’t have to. We text your estimated wait time. When you reach the front of the line, you receive a text to let you know you’re next. Now you can wait where you want. SOUTH 5005 Oscar Baxter Dr. Tuscaloosa 205.343.2225
NORTH 3909 McFarland Blvd. Northport WE ACCEPT 205.333.1993
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CITY Renovations are Underway at Tuscaloosa’s McDonald Hughes Community Center BY DCL STAFF
Updates to the McDonald Hughes Community Center are underway as the city looks to provide more amenities for children and young adults. Improvements include the construction of a canopy to allow people to exit vehicles safely during rain, flooring for the gymnasium, and an indoor playground. These amenities are among the immediate concerns discussed by community members who regularly attend programs at the center. “Participants who attend weekly exercise classes are thrilled to have a safeguard from inclement weather as they enter and exit the Hughes Center,” District Two Councilor Raevan Howard said. “And the playground unit, with its bright colors, will be a pulse for children attending the center. When the project is finished, those who attend the center will hopefully find their visit more comfortable and pleasurable.” Updates to the facility are among the many projects being funded by Elevate Tuscaloosa. The work, budgeted at $1.5 million, also includes a number of immediate needs for the facility, including restroom upgrades. In the future, the community can look forward to improvements to parks, resolutions to drainage problems that have been identified, and increased lighting that will provide more safety for our residents.
Among the new additions at the Community Center is an indoor playground for kids. Photo: City of Tuscaloosa
“When taking office in 2005, I pledged to reverse the decades of neglect in West Tuscaloosa. Together, we have made significant progress and Elevate Tuscaloosa provides the tools to accomplish even more,” said Tuscaloosa Mayor, Walt Maddox. “The enhancements to the McDonald Hughes Center will further connect and engage with the communities it serves. And, it’s only the beginning for the center and West Tuscaloosa.”
Updates to the McDonald Hughes Community Center are being made now, with plans to finish the renovations next month. Photo: City of Tuscaloosa
Renovations are expected to be completed by Oct. 23. For more information about Elevate Tuscaloosa, visit ElevateTuscaloosa.com.
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Druid City Living | September 2020
BUSINESS NOW OPEN & OPENING SOON 1
The Ivory Dynasty boutique hotel is now open on Greensboro Avenue in downtown Tuscaloosa (near the Jack Warner Parkway intersection). This self-service, Crimson Tide-themed hotel features eight rooms decorated with University of Alabama memorabilia, including lockers from the Alabama football locker room, signage, and more. Collodge. com; (205) 500-0780
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Shanks Steak & Catfish was preparing to open in Northport (5675 US-43) in August. The restaurant offers quality steaks, catfish, pork, chicken, homemade pastas, desserts, and hand-crafted, local beer.
Glen Smith (L) receives the 2020 Alabama District Exchange Clubs Member of the Year plaque from Lisa deShazo, District president. Photo: Glen Smith
NEWS AND HAPPENINGS 1
Buddy’s Food Mart and Powell Oil Co. have been sold. Owner Tripp Powell said the company’s been sold to Vernon-based Midstates Petroleum Company. The Buddy’s stores have been operating in Tuscaloosa for over 40 years. Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama President and CEO Jim Page has been selected by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) for a year-long Fellowship for Economic Recovery. Page, along with 41 other Chamber professionals from all over the U.S., will study economic recovery and resilience strategies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Courtyard By Marriott in Northport (700 Bridge Avenue) was held in early-August. Representatives from developer Mansa Hospitality were on hand. The four-story hotel is expected to have 104 rooms when it’s completed.
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The Exchange Club of Tuscaloosa recently recognized Glen Smith as the Alabama District Exchange Club’s Member of the Year for 2020. This recognition stems from Smith’s work as chairman of the annual Exchange Club Chili Cookoff fundraiser for the past decade. Smith is also the treasurer of the Exchange Club Foundation, managing the awarding of grants to local charitable organizations.
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Dr. Stacy Jones has been named Interim Dean of Students at the University of Alabama. Jones, who has over 25 years of experience in higher education, will provide leadership for Student Care and Wellbeing, Student Conduct, Student Engagement (effective Oct. 1) and Veteran and Military Affairs.
Business you want to see here? Email us at: editor@druidcitymedia.com
Dr. Stacy Jones Photo: University of Alabama
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SCHOOLS PARA OFFERING ACTIVE CLASSROOMS LEARNER OPTION Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority is offering an Active Classrooms option to learners during the virtual school year. Active Classrooms will provide the K-8th grade learner with a daily schedule which includes remote learning support time, physical activity, recess, group games, enrichment, arts and crafts, and more. Active Classrooms will be offered at Belk, Faucett, Miller, and Phelps Centers on Monday – Friday at 7:30a-3:30p with an extended day option. The cost is $90 per week or $20 per day. Extended day is $35 per week or $7 per day. Registration is required by the prior week. For FAQ, to register or for more information, please visit https://www.tcpara.org/recreation/parakids/activeClassrooms IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE TO A LEARNER SUPPLY LIST, YOU MAY BRING A DONATION OF SUPPLIES TO ANY PARA ACTIVITY CENTER. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE TO AN ACTIVE CLASSROOMS SCHOLARSHIP FUND, PLEASE VISIT HTTPS://WWW.TCPARA.ORG/DONATE.
Would you like to see your school mentioned here? Email us at: editor@druidcitymedia.com
ACTIVE K-8th Gr
ade
S M O O R CLASS
An enhanced option for virtual learners
visit tcpara.org for details on Active Classrooms and registration
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Druid City Living | September 2020
COMMUNITY
Industry Leaders Launch “Keep West Alabama Working” Campaign Promoting COVID-19 Safety BY DCL STAFF
West Alabamians who are fortunate to have their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic also want to keep working. How they can do so safely and help support their various employers and businesses is behind a new grassroots initiative called “KeepWestAlabama Working.”The idea is simple, according to Kelsey Rush with Bryant Bank.“We’re encouraging all workers to practice COVID-19 safety beyond their workplace, so that ourbusinesses can stay open,” Rush said.West Alabama industry leaders, in partnership with The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama,are behind the campaign. As part of this campaign, the leaders are working to encourage West Alabama residents to wear face masks in public, to practice social distancing, and to wash hands not only at work, but athome and when in the community to prevent thespread of COVID “As business leaders in our community, we must strive to make West Alabama a place for economic prosperity for all,” said Jim Page, President and CEO of the Chamber. “ We must work together to protect community health, to support our economic base, and to keep our local businesses open and employees working. This is a great reminder to our community that COVID safety goes beyond the workplace.”PhilTucker,PlantManagerofBFGoodrich Tuscaloosa Manufacturing,agrees. “The simple act of wearing a mask can save lves, Tucker said. “By following protocols issued by public health experts, we can help prevent the further spread of COVID and ensure the safe, responsible continuation of our operations and that of other employers in our community, from industry to small businesses.” Scientific evidence suggests that if everyone in the West Alabama community wears masks, practices social distancing, and washes their hands regularly, they’ ll be less likely to contract COVID-19 and then bring it to their workplaces. The campaign compliments Alabama Governor Kay Ivey’s latest order asking Alabamians to wear face coverings to help protect public health.The Keep West Alabama Working campaign compliments Governor Kay Ivey’s July 29 state order asking Alabamians to wear a mask to protect public health. Ivey’s order is in effect throughAug. 31, but it could be extended. Top Left: A masked Mercedes-Benz employee works on a vehicle at the MBUSI plant in Vance. Bottom Right: Jim Page and Phil Tucker appear in a public service announcement to take protective measures at and away from work, by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and washing their hands. It’s the cornerstone of the Keep West Alabama Working campaign. Photos: Mercedes-Benz U.S. International and The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama
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COMMUNITY For One Tuscaloosa Family, Volunteering has Become a Family Affair BY NANCY RANDALL AND WENDI PARMINTER
The year with the asterisk beside it–that’s how 2020 will go down in the history books, some have said, due to the impact of COVID-19. But add another asterisk for the pandemic’s positive side. One example is the Simon family. For almost a year, Rebecca Simon has been a DCH Health System volunteer, learning about DCH and health care operations. Simon is a student in the Manderson Graduate School of Business at The University of Alabama. Rebecca is a triplet and one of five children. Anna, one of her younger sisters, came home from college in March and had much time to fill. Rebecca, who volunteered at DCH all summer,shared her hospital adventure stories with Anna.Anna soon became a virtual volunteer and made crafts to support DCH employees and patients. She has made fidget blankets for patients with dementia and woodburned coasters. Her handcrafted, inspirational bookmarks–600 in total–will go to employees and Manderson Cancer Center patients.Everyone at DCH appreciates these young women’s efforts during these challenging times,including Director of Volunteer Services Wendi Parminter. “WE ARE THANKFUL FOR THESE SISTERS AND ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE CONTINUING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE,”
Parminter added that there are several potential opportunities for people to volunteer. “We make the fidget blankets for our stroke and Alzheimer’s patients. We also have a quilting program for our area veterans,” Parminter said. “WE’RE ALSO OPEN TO ANY IDEAS. WE HAVEVOLUNTEERS WORKING VIRTUALLY AND OTHERS IN-PERSON, SO WHATEVER ANYONE CAN DO.” If you’d like to find out how you can help, contact Wendi Parminter at DCH at (205) 759-7141 or by emailing wendi.parminter@dchsystem.com
The Simon siblings are (front row, L to R) Rebecca and Katie Simon and (back row, L to R) Luke,Anna, and Jacob Simon. Photo: DCH Health Systems
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Druid City Living | September 2020
COMMUNITY CSP Spotlight: How to Help When Children Worry BY KESHA GRICE
We can’t promise children that the people they love won’t become sick, or that things will get easier by a certain date. But we can provide as much a sense of safety as possible. Besides practicing breathing deep, here are some ways you might help ease children’s worries. As much as possible, keep children away from news of COVID-19. When children are feeling worried, you can sit with them and encourage them to “draw it out.” Help children name their feeling (worried, anxious, afraid, sad, concerned, frustrated, and so on). Then ask, “What color is your feeling? What shape?” Help them label their picture with words or sentences. This works with any feeling (of course, there can be more than one feeling in a picture). You can model the strategy by drawing your own feelings, too. ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO ASK QUESTIONS.
Answer them simply but honestly, giving them just the information they are asking for. Often, knowing the facts (even if they are worrisome) is better than not knowing. Make one time of day (such as mealtime), or one area of the home (such as children’s bedrooms) a “no virus talk” zone. In that zone, you might talk about things you want to do again once things change, favorite places you’ve been together, your favorite moment of the day so far, and something you’re looking forward to tomorrow. Explain that while we can’t control what’s happening in the world, we can control a lot of what happens in our home. Just by staying home, keeping safe distances, handwashing, and coughing and sneezing into our elbows, children help keep the whole family and many others safe. YOU SHOULD ALSO WATCH CHILDREN FOR SIGNS OF STRESS.
In preschool, these may include fear of being alone, bad dreams, “accidents” or constipation, bed-wetting, changes in appetite, or an increase in temper tantrums, whining, or clinginess. Additionally, your extra hugs and reassurance, along with doing calming, comforting things at bedtime, can go a long way. If a parent is an essential worker, children may naturally worry more. You can remind them: Photo: Community Service Programs of West Alabama Their parent has been well trained to do their job and knows how to keep safe. Just as their parent has a job, everyone else in the family has their own important job too. The family is a team. (Children can gain a sense of responsibility by helping with chores and keeping themselves healthy, so that the essential worker can better concentrate on doing their job safely). YOU CAN ALL BE PROUD OF THE PARENT WHO IS OUT THERE WORKING AND HELPING.
Pride can create a sense of meaning and purpose for the whole family. Your family is not alone. Neighbors, friends, and other family members want to help your family, and you’ll let them. Years from now, your children will remember the times you were positive, patient, and calm. Even through this challenge, you can build a foundation of strength and resilience that can last a lifetime. Community Service Programs of West Alabama (CSP), Inc.’s Head Start/Early Head Start, Child Care Partnership, and Early Intervention programs engage families and encourage healthy lifestyle choices. Safe and healthy children are ready to learn and explore their world.
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COMMUNITY Things to Do When the Walls Are Closing In On You BY HANSON WATKINS
Many of us been at home 90% of the time since March. With children or working. On endless Zoom calls. Some of us have gone back to work in tense circumstances. Relaxation is not just for fun. It is vital and important for good health. Sunshine makes Vitamin D. Vitamin D is helpful in regulating all sorts of happy processes in our bodies. My children are sick of hearing this as I implore them to leave their computers. THERE IS NOTHING LIKE FUN FOR A GOOD TIME.
We need this now, more than ever. As the walls close in on us.... So try something you haven’t done before. Maybe you have thought about it, but never had the gumption. Or do something you loved as a kid...with your kids. Here are some outdoor suggestions that don’t take long, are free or inexpensive and are FUN.
Climb that giant tower thing at Snow Hinton Park. You have driven by a eleventy million times. Yes, I know you are “too old” or “out of shape” or like me, “chicken”. Full confession, my teens took me there and I made it about two feet up before I bailed out. My heart rate went way up, so I counted it as exercise. It’s free, too. My favorite price. Go paddle boarding at Lake Nichol. Meet some friends there. It’s $15 an hour if you take four people. Take a picnic. Wear a mask if you get anywhere near each other. Full disclosure – I paddle board sitting down most of the time. Being fancy and standing up is not required for a good time. Call or text 205-394-4921 to arrange things with Tuscaloosa Paddleboard.
Take a golf or tennis lesson There are two things that almost every expert agrees are healthy and safe. There are great public facilities here with lots of teachers. PARA has private lessons from as little as $23. It is never too late to learn something new. True confession – I was in a tennis club. I started in the lowest level. I stayed there – waving as I watched my friends move up to the next level. Doesn’t matter. Still had fun. I also “play” golf. My family created a special scoring designation for me. WB. For “whole bunch”. We would lose count of my strokes because I hit that ball a whole bunch. I have a great time. I get more exercise than everyone else because I am swinging way more often Top Left Photo: City of Tuscaloosa Bottom Right Photo: Tuscaloosa Paddleboat
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Druid City Living | September 2020
COMMUNITY
Tales of Tuscaloosa WATERY CHIMES (SEPT. 9, 1874)
By Jim Ezell For countless generations, Tuscaloosans from the earliest Native-Americans to later settlers shared something. A writer in the September 9, 1874, issue of The Tuscaloosa Times described it as a “ceaseless monotone, not unlike the moan of pines shaken by the winds” and as “watery chimes” that could be heard for several miles. This sound emanated from a rock ledge perhaps 15 ft. high and over 400 ft. long that extended unbroken across the Black Warrior River. Water cascaded over it at an average rate of about 58,000 gallons per second—a volume so great that in one day it could cover a football field to a depth of nearly three miles. To some it was known as the Warrior Falls. To others, it was University Falls. This waterfall was the upstream barrier in a series of rapids that extended two miles from near the present day M&O Railroad and Hugh Thomas Bridges in downtown Tuscaloosa to Manderson Landing (the site of old Lock No. 12) near the University of Alabama. Certain stretches of these rapids had names such as Hendrix’ Reef and Peg Leg Shoals. Warrior Falls was created by river water flowing from the Appalachian Plateau and dropping abruptly in elevation as it flowed into the Coastal Plain. In the Tuscaloosa area, the Appalachian Plateau is represented by the Pottsville, a geological formation consisting of relatively flat layers of sandstone, shale, and coal. Since sandstone is the most erosion-resistant component of this formation, ledges or crests developed as water eroded the softer rock beneath. Eventually, the undercut crest would collapse and leave remnants in the streambed that shaped and guided the water, thus creating a series of shoals and rapids. Over thousands of years this process was repeated, and Warrior Falls receded upstream until its late 19th century position was reached. The Pottsville Formation extends along the slopes of the Appalachian Mountains across several states. Thus, a number of well-known waterfalls developed on other major streams. Some of these include Little River Canyon Falls near Fort Payne, Cumberland Falls in Kentucky, Muddy Creek Falls in Maryland, Douglas Falls in West Virginia, and Ohiopyle Falls in Pennsylvania. OVER A CENTURY AGO, THE “WATERY CHIMES” THAT COULD BE HEARD IN ALL PARTS OF THE CITY CEASED TO PLAY.
Warrior Falls is shown as “University Falls” on this 1903 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers navigation chart index map. Photo: National Park Service
In the 1890s, construction of Lock Nos. 10, 11 and 12 flooded Warrior Falls. Tuscaloosa was no longer the head of navigation on the Black Warrior River. Riverboats could now bring cargoes such as coal, timber and steel from upstream mines, forests, and factories.
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Taking on
life
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COMMUNITY The economies of areas such as Birmingham, Jefferson, and Walker Counties, as well as Tuscaloosa, were boosted. In less than 20 years Tuscaloosa’s population doubled. In the 20th century, Lock Nos. 10, 11 and 12 were replaced by Oliver Lock and Dam, making the river even deeper. The rock ledge that created the crest of Warrior Falls still exists, but it is about 30 feet underwater. The soft sound enjoyed for many centuries is now mute.
At Children’s of Alabama, we are (still) serving children safely AND providing world-class treatment to young cancer patients like Madison.
Warrior Falls likely resembled Little River Canyon Falls near Fort Payne. Although not as high, Warrior Falls was over twice as wide with a much greater flow. Photo: The National Park Service
Good news! Our program is ranked one of the top pediatric cancer programs in the nation.
Jim Ezell is a retired engineer, historian, and author. His novel, Debris Cloud, is an adventure/crime novel set in Tuscaloosa. It is available on Amazon. Ninety percent of Alabama’s children with cancer receive their treatment at our center. Learn how you can help at: ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure
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Druid City Living | September 2020
COMMUNITY Tuscaloosa Public Library Introduces New eCard for Online Resources BY DCL STAFF
In the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and with so many choosing virtual learning from home, the Tuscaloosa Public Library is debuting a new tool it hopes will enrich its patrons experience. Designed with parents, teachers, and college students in mind, the Tuscaloosa Public Library eCard allows both on-campus and remote-learning students and staff to apply online for access to all TPL’s online resources. TPL’s eCard will be available to everyone 16 and older with a government-issued photo ID who may not have a traditional library card. “We look forward to sharing our online resources with the Tuscaloosa community,” said Vince Bellofatto, TPL’s director of communications and public relations. Bellofatto said some of TPL’s most popular resources include online tutorials and training with Lynda.com, access to digital eBooks and audio books in the OverDrive/Libby app, language training with Rocket Languages, and video streaming with Kanopy. Children’s learning materials on Tumble Books and TrueFlix are also available. Those interested in obtaining a Tuscaloosa Public Library eCard can find out more at Tuscaloosa-library.org/get-a-tpl-ecard. Residents who already have a TPL full-access card can already use all the online services available. Parents, teachers, and area college students who want to access the Tuscaloosa Public Library’s online resources can now apply for a TPL eCard. Photo: Tuscaloosa Public Library
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OPINION
The Mommy Chronicles: Just Be Patient (and Remember to Mute Yourselves) BY MARLENA RICE
“I NEED A STRESS BALL.”
As I sat with my Little on his first official day of remote learning (second grade already), it took all I had to hide my smile behind my coffee cup at his request. Now, I like coffee cups that have bible verses. And wow did I need the patience of Jesus that day as I transformed from recruiting manager to elementary school teacher. Things began awkwardly. During one of our first classroom video chats, a dad forgot to mute himself. When I say we all heard his frustrations, I mean we felt them to our core. We all need stress balls as we try to navigate this new way of learning. If you’re a designated teacher-parent during this time, how are you keeping your cool in front of your kids (and all their friends on the zoom calls)? Here are a few tips that might help. Be patient. Remember, your child would probably prefer being in a regular schooling environment just as much as you wish they could be. It’s not always fun to study and learn alongside us parents, either. Be kind. It’s easy to lash out, but what may seem super annoying or stressful is usually us parents wanting order and consistency (a rarity in remote learning situations). Be flexible. Loosen up and don’t allow this (hopefully) once in a lifetime pandemic to ruin the relationship and honorability between you and your children.
Beaux William hides in his toy chest during a break from a remote learning activity. Photo: Marlena Rice
DEEP BREATHS, EVERYONE. HAVE A GOOD SCHOOL YEAR.
PROVIDING SAFE CARE SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO SLOW DOWN. DCH hospital sites have resumed surgical procedures. Here’s how we are keeping you safe: • • • • • •
Visitors who enter DCH will be screened, including a temperature check. Masks are required by everyone entering our sites. Visitation is restricted. Patients who have or are suspected of having COVID-19 use a separate entrance. Patients who have or are suspected of having COVID-19 are cared for in isolation, away from other patients. Disinfection and extra cleaning are a top priority every day. We use some of the most advanced disinfectant equipment and supplies available.*
Your health is our priority. To schedule elective or outpatient procedures, contact your doctor today. *Using ultraviolet light, Tru-D disinfectant robots help reduce the transmission of infectious diseases, including viruses.
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Druid City Living | September 2020
OPINION Family Counseling Service: Learn to Embrace Your Experiences BY LARRY DEAVERS
G
EVERYONE HAS A COLLECTION OF EXPERIENCES THAT MAKES THEIR LIFE UNIQUE.
They come in both the pleasant and the painful varieties, but they all play an essential role in making us who we are. It’s the most painful, difficult circumstances that arouse in us characteristics such as compassion, gentleness, kindness, and generosity. Our painful experiences have great influence over how we interact with others; we learn to trust or not trust, to tell the truth or to mislead, and to see life as full of promise or full of dread. How we choose to integrate these experiences into our lives is the determining factor on how we allow them to shape us. Our initial reaction to many such experiences is to feel bitter, angry, or resentful that such things have happened to us. If we view these circumstances Larry Deavers is a Licensed Independent Social Worker andour Executive strictly through a lens of regret, they can follow us around like dark clouds – coloring our viewClinical of ourselves, lives, Director of Family Counseling Service of West Alabama. and those around us. WE CAN LEARN TO APPRECIATE LIFE’S MISFORTUNES
if we begin to see the way they’ve helped us develop positive, more mature traits in our dealings with others – and the way we see ourselves. How can you have compassion for others in their painful experiences if you haven’t had any of your own? WE OWE A LOT TO OUR PAST IN HELPING TO SHAPE THE WAY WE SEE OURSELVES AND OTHERS. WHETHER THIS IS A PRODUCTIVE AFFECT OR A BURDEN IS A CHOICE THAT EACH OF US HAS TO MAKE.
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Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper | DruidCityLiving.com
OPINION
The Land of Oz: I Really Don’t Know What to Write If that headline doesn’t grab you, nothing will.
Look… everyone that writes eventually runs into the glorious wall of blank-mindedness known as “writer’s block.” That’s not what I have right now. This September column has always been earmarked to cover one topic and one topic only: college football. Like many, it is by far my favorite sport to watch, analyze, discuss, and binge. It teeters on the edge of fanaticism. The tricky part in penning an article 2-3 weeks before it goes to publish in the COVID-19 world is that everything will be different by the time you read this. As it sits, the SEC is still playing this fall. Others are not – which means, among other things, that there is doubt (and potential germs) in the air. And that’s never good. The pandemic situation is fluid. You keep your fluid away from me, and I’ll keep my fluid away from you (also known as “wear a mask”). But it’s also fluid in that the information and the real dangers and the level of concern and the subsequent fallout change daily. I’d love to write about this years’ Alabama’s defense, or LSU’s rebuild, or how bad Auburn is every year. But for now, I just hope they get to play safely. And until I know for sure, I don’t know what to write about. Derek Osborn is a non-profit and addictions and prevention speaker and consultant. He lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Lynn, and their daughters, Savannah and Anica. Follow him on Twitter @ozborn34.
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Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper | DruidCityLiving.com
OPINION Alabama Armchair Critic: September Streaming Options Include Warriors, Explorers, Suspicious Girlfriends, and a Sadistic Nurse BY JERRY ROBERTS With movie theaters still closed, streaming is still the place to be. Most of you know by now that Bill & Ted Face the Music debuts on demand on Sept. 1 – but here are some other top suggestions for your September streaming pleasure. Mulan is the Disney live-action remake that was supposed to debut in theaters in March but was put on hold due to COVID-19. Disney+ has decided to put the film on their steaming service for a price of $29.99. Will the movie be successful at this price? We’ll know soon. (Sept. 4, Disney+) Ratched is the new project from American Horror Story creator Ryan Murphy. Murphy regular Sarah Paulson plays young Mildred Ratched – the cruel, passive-aggressive head nurse from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest – as she joins the staff at a mental hospital in Oregon. (Sept. 18, Netflix) I’m Thinking of Ending Things is the newest confection from Charlie Kaufman (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Being John Malkovich). This psychological horror film is about a woman who travels with her new boyfriend to his parent’s secluded farm. Uh oh. (Sept. 4, Netflix) Away is yet another attempt by Netflix to put together a successful space show after the lackluster reception of Space Force and Another Life. This one stars Oscar winner Hilary Swank as a leader of a team struggling to be the first to Mars. (Sept. 4, Netflix) Jerry Roberts is an Alabama movie critic and historian for armchaircinema.com, armchairoscars.com. He has a blog at overthinkingoscar.wordpress.com.
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Druid City Living | September 2020
OPINION
Lake Living: Respecting Differences Makes Us Stronger BY ALLISON ADAMS
September usually brings thoughts of the changing leaves of fall and football, gatherings, and good times. But as I write this from the Appalachian Mountains, summer is still going strong at home – and I’m awaiting the final ruling on whether we’ll have SEC football. We’ve taken a little break in Cashiers and Highlands. It reminds me of the things I treasure in a tiny little town, sort of what Tuscaloosa once was before the sprawl of progress. I grew up in Livingston, and even in the 80s, Tuscaloosa was the “big town.” Don’t get me wrong, I love the things growth brings. Tuscaloosa is immersed with diversity, educational debates, historical discussion, art, music, and theater that seeps into its southern culture from across the world. We’ve loved serving real estate clients from Germany, Saudi Arabia, India, China, Brazil, and Mexico, often entertaining them in our home and sharing those cultures with our children through music and food. This has taught me that all need is to understand each other, to do our best to extend compassion while also respecting that we will never all be the same. But really, isn’t that the thing that makes the world go round? If we were all the same, where would we be? Perhaps on a Truman Show of life? Who really wants that? Our diversity and differences are exactly what makes America the place that people throughout the world the world want to experience. Blessings,
Allison
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Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper | DruidCityLiving.com
OPINION Give Life to Your Story: Too Many Choices BYMIKE GREEN
Recently, I was looking for a few tunes to lighten my day. I typically return to the same few bands and styles of music I know best. Needtobreathe and 80s classic rock get steady rotation. But that day, I wanted to break from routine. A quick glance into Spotify showed me no less than 48 (!) music genres. Now multiply that by the number of artists (and songs) in each genre and well, my mind began swirling. With so many options, I was frozen. After what seemed like an eternity of indecision, I found myself back in the familiar. Because we have every song ever produced just clicks away, every piece of merchandise an Amazon search away, and more ways to personalize our phones, cars, clothes, and hairstyles than ever, we have what psychologists call “decision fatigue.” With so many choices, we just don’t know what we want anymore. WE WASTE SO MUCH OF LIFE ON TRIVIAL DECISIONS, WE’RE LEFT WITH NO EMOTIONAL ENERGY TO MAKE THE REALLY IMPORTANT ONES.
I recently read something strange. Some of the greatest thinkers, athletes, and business innovators of the past 100 years did something countercultural. They put some decisions on autopilot. Some ate the same meal for lunch every day. Others wore the same clothes every day. Bizarre, right? But their reasoning was that life was just too important to waste on the trivial. I waste too much of life on the trivial. HOW ABOUT YOU?
Mike Green serves as Executive Director of Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ. He and his wife, Laura, have two grown kids, and two really cool grandkids. Reach Mike at mike@tuscaloosayfc.com.
Mike and Laura Green Photo: Mike Green
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Druid City Living | September 2020
FOOD
TASTE OF TUSCALOOSA The (Quarantine) Pregnancy Cravings Edition If you haven’t been able to tell recently from your social media newsfeed, we’ve got some quarantine pregnancies popping up all over Sheena Gregg is a registered dietitian and local “Filipino FoodT-Town. And even though I’d categorize myself as more of a Valentine’s ie.” Follow her adventures at Day pregnancy, being pregnant during these COVID 19 times has been www.afilipinofoodie.com. something else for sure. Thankfully, we have plenty of Tuscaloosa eateries to come to the rescue to meet our pregnancy cravings – whether in person or via takeout. BY SHEENA GREGG
My husband Terry and I can’t wait for our second boy to make his debut on November 9.
For me, I’ve been dreaming of Bushwhackers lately… and I’ve been assured by several Tuscaloosa restaurants that there will be one readily available once my little one makes his debut in November. Delicious, beachy, alcoholic drinks aside, Taziki’s and Taco Casa have helped me ride out my quarantine pregnancy. I’ve also asked some additional ladies with buns in the oven what their biggest pregnancy cravings are. Their answers were so fun. MIRANDA MCKEE
Miranda Tyler McKee and hubby Tyler (here with son Logan) will welcome their newest addition due on December 30. Photo: Miranda Lee
This pregnancy I’ve had sporadic cravings, but fruit and sour candy have stayed consistent. We have frequently ordered from Pearl Garden for their amazing shrimp fried rice and shrimp sauce. We’ve also ordered a good bit of Marco’s pizza… their pepperoni magnifico is so good. Since COVID started in March, we have chosen to not dine-in at restaurants as a family. However, we love that we’re still getting to enjoy our favorite places with drive-up options – they’re extremely beneficial for my cravings and because I have a two-year-old that has to touch everything.
EMILY SKELTON
I’ve been craving sausage biscuits, tacos, and birthday cake during my pregnancy. Tacos have come from my favorite Mexican restaurant, Frida’s in Northport, or from Taco Casa. The best Emily Skelton and her husband cakes I’ve had so far have come from my baby showers – they’ve included cupcakes from Cele-Brooks will welcome their first child, a little girl, due on October 1. brations Bakery and a cake made Photo: Emily Skelton by the fabulous Chris Cobb. Luckily, COVID hasn’t posed any trouble getting the food I’ve craved with takeout options being available, but I’ve also cooked tacos on a lot of days I couldn’t get takeout.
VICTORIA LEE
During this pregnancy I’ve been craving all the chicken salad. I’ve wanted something savory but cold to get through these hot summer days. Chicken Salad Chick has come to the rescue (their Sassy Scotty is my best friend). COVID hasn’t affected any of my favorite restaurants because it’s been so easy to pick things up to go. Victoria Lee and her husband Alex will welcome their first child, a baby boy, due on November 3. PHoto: Victoria Lee
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Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper | DruidCityLiving.com
FOOD DCL September Recipes: Shredded Mexican Chicken and Chicken Pomodoro
Shredded Mexican Chicken (For Slow Cooker or Instant Pot) 2 pounds chicken breasts 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 cup mild salsa (medium if you like spicy) 3-4 tablespoons brown sugar 4 oz. can mild diced green chilies 14.5 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes, drained 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 tsp. EACH ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder 1/2 tsp. EACH smoked paprika, dry oregano, and pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle chili pepper (optional for more heat) 1 teaspoon liquid smoke Hot sauce to taste Rub chicken breasts with oil and place in the bottom of your slow cooker or instant pot. Add all the remaining ingredients except for the hot sauce. In slow cooker, cook on high for 2-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours or until chicken is tender enough to shred. In an Instant Pot, cook high pressure for 25 minutes. You can manually release pressure or let it release naturally. Move chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before shredding (there will be liquid remaining). Return shredded chicken and let cook on low for 20 minutes in slow cooker or in instant pot, simmer for 5 minutes to absorb some of the liquid/juices. Drain all excess liquid well (I used a bowl to push down in the strainer). Add hot sauce to taste if desired. Note: The juices can be reserved to use as the liquid in Mexican rice.
Creamy Pomodoro Sauce 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 4 stems fresh oregano 2 stems fresh rosemary 4 stems fresh basil, divided 1/2 sweet onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 28 oz. can whole San Mariano tomatoes Heat olive oil over medium. Add oregano, rosemary, and 2 stems basil, and cook for 5 minutes or until crisp.
If you need some great dinner ideas, I’ve got two of them. Enjoy this shredded Mexican chicken as a filling for your favorite dish – burritos, tacos, salads, you name it. And whip up this scrumptious creamy pomodoro sauce for spaghetti night. It’ll disappear quickly. Bon appétit!
Amy
Amy Poore is a Tuscaloosa mom, a wife, and a foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, Poore Amy, at pooreamy.com. Photos: Amy Poore
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