Tuscaloosa’s Feel Good News
September 2015 - Volume 2, Issue 9
Lost Bracelet Miracle
One-of-a-kind Jewelry Returned Hundreds of Miles to Thankful Owner By Brandie Rickett Bowden
’Tis the Season! See PAGE 20 for our TAILGATING GUIDE
“Do you want to hear about a miracle?” Cindy Fetterly of Coker has asked this question many times in recent conversations. We frequently see miracles in TV shows and movies, circumstances that happen to work out “just so” in order to provide the best conclusion to the story, leaving the viewer saying “Yeah, right. That’s not real.” But sometimes, it is. Fetterly found herself in one of those situations this summer. Now she knows that “God put [her] in the right place at the right time.” Winding up a beach trip to Gulf Shores, Fetterly’s family took one more swim before heading back home. During this swim, Cindy’s grandson went after a shiny object his grandfather had seen in the surf. It was a bracelet with a foreign inscription on the inside. Fetterly took a special interest in this bracelet, recognizing that someone would have been sad to lose such a beautiful piece of jewelry. She decided to find out what she could about it,
Continued on Page 11
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Carley (Fetterly’s granddaughter), Cindy Fetterly and Fai on the day they met and the bracelet was returned. Photo: Cindy Fetterly
Druid City Garden Project’s Annual Garden Party Celebrates All Things Local and Delicious By Tori Linville
Continued on Page 16
The Druid City Garden Project is watering its roots again with its annual Garden Party, to be held Oct. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Smith Hall. Eight restaurants, three breweries and a handful of farmers will come together for the yearly celebration of the initiative’s success. The Garden Party allows for guests to sample local food and brews while listening to music from The Red Mountain White Trash Band. In addition to the local tastes, the silent auction showcases local artists and companies. A crafts section for children lets the whole family in on the action. “Whether you’re serious about local eating and drinking, or just enjoy a good party, The Garden Party is an event everyone can get excited about. Even if you didn’t know why Proceeds from the annual Garden Party benefit the Druid City Garden Project, which strives to we’re throwing a party, it’s just a build community through food. Photo: Druid City Garden Project
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September 2015
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A celebration was in order on August 13, as Tuscaloosa’s Lucy Jordan turned 95 years young. The American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 34, in Tuscaloosa, honored Jordan with a special birthday party. And what does Mrs. Jordan say makes for a joyful, long life? She says it’s a combination of several things. “We have always made good friends, and I think friends, family, church and community are all rolled into one to make you have a happy, good life. The Lord has blessed me.” Jordan remains active in the Tuscaloosa community. She is a past president of Alabama Girls State, with over 50 years of continuous service. Photo: Nicolas Britto
4 CITY NEWS
September 2015
Mayor’s Minute – September 2015 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Last week, I presented my recommendations for the 2016 fiscal year operating budgets for the City of Tuscaloosa to the esteemed City Council. Tuscaloosa has faced, and continues to face, several budget challenges, including the threat of eroded sales tax growth due to Internet sales, the need to update Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue vehicles, and a critical need to update and enhance equipment, technology and data security across multiple City disciplines. These recommendations take into consideration these challenges, and our best efforts to combat them. For fiscal year 2016, our general fund operating budget for the City is just shy of $140 million, with an additional $48 million designated for the water and sewer budget. Additionally, reserve funds exceed $20 million for the general fund and near $24 million for the water and sewer fund. These
reserve budgets are put in place to ensure future improvements – much needed improvements – are possible. Nearly 25 percent of Tuscaloosa’s general fund revenue, as well as 40 percent of our discretionary revenue, is sourced through City sales taxes. With Tuscaloosa’s city sales tax rate at one of the lowest in the state at 2 percent, we are able to accomplish so much without putting any additional financial pressure on our citizens – something I, as Mayor, take great pride in. We hope to keep our tax rate at this level for as long as possible. The Council will spend the next month reviewing the proposed budget, making suggestions and edits as needed and will vote on it on Sept. 22. To see my budget proposal, go to Tuscaloosa.com. Sincerely, Walter Maddox
6 OPINION
September 2015
The Mommy Chronicles: Helping Our Kids With School Anxiety by Marlena Rice Fall is finally here: Hello cooler weather, back-toschool, and football. Parents who have gotten all too familiar with the easier flow of traffic from home to work are now readjusting their morning schedules to entertain the influx of school buses and University traffic that were easily forgotten during the summer months. As parents, as we adjust to our new schedules, our little people are adjusting as well. But with new schools, new classrooms, new teachers and new friends comes butterflies and anxiety that we may not be used to seeing in our children. See below a list of ways to combat “school refusal,” a common form of anxiety that many of our children experience, whether it is easily recognizable or not. So what is school refusal? I think all parents have experienced excess clinging during morning dropoffs to school, avoidance, flat-out defiance and the good old-fashioned tantrum. In older children, this refusal may occur in terms of “not feeling well” in attempts to stay home, away from all things that are causing their anxiety (the fear of not knowing the correct answers in class, having to meet new friends, or even worries about who to sit with at lunchtime), as well as real physical symptoms, like stomachaches, or nausea.* Usually, these childhood fears dissipate over the course of learning a new routine. We have to wake up a little bit earlier to avoid the additional school traffic on the road in the mornings, and our children have to adjust their minds to what is new in their lives before becoming comfortable. How can we, as parents, help to combat school refusal? • Don’t rush your mornings. Prepare lunches and backpacks the evening prior to bedtime and
wake up just a little bit earlier in the mornings. This gives you time to eat breakfast with your child, talk about the day’s expectations and gives the child a chance to voice any concerns they may have. • For little ones entering a schooling environment for the first time, adjust them to school in small doses. Once assigned a classroom and teacher, ask if you can start dropping your child in for a few hours a day to help them adjust. • Talk with your children about their fears and feelings, and find solutions together for things that may cause them stress or concern. A good time to do this is during a family dinner when your child is relaxed and comfortable. • Encourage playdates for little ones and extracurricular activities for older children. This will help them relax while being around people their age in a similar environment. Having your child build excitement over activities that are school-related will not only encourage them to like attending each morning, but it may very well make them more in tune with the classroom aspects of school. • Most importantly, make yourself known at your children’s school. Know your child’s principals, directors, teachers and part-time aids. Not only is this a great way to let educators know just how involved you are, but your child will be proud that you are involved. *While some of these symptoms are normal and affect a large majority of children, should you notice your child not getting better, consult a mental health professional.* Marlena Rice is a local mom and author. Her new book, “Pacifiers, Flatbeds and Barn Wood Thingamajigs, a ‘Come to Jesus Guide’ for the New, Southern Mom,” will be available on Amazon.com this fall. Follow Marlena on Instagram at marlena_rice.
Beaux William is ready for school. Photo: Marlena Rice
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OPINION 7 The Land of Oz: Priorities–There’s Already a Conflict September 2015
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.” There’s already a conflict. How on earth does this happen? Dost the masses not understand the unwritten rule of the south - the rule that states, and I quote, “Thou shall not schedule important and/or life-altering events during any given Saturday for the duration of the fall season?” Yet somehow, it occurs. A blind eye is turned. The rule overlooked. The statute ignored. The priorities flushed. In the college football fan attendance and viewing playbook for the upcoming season, November 7, 2015, looked to be one of those days of perfect gridiron engagement bliss. Alabama vs. LSU. Auburn vs. Texas A&M. Tennessee vs. South Carolina. Arkansas vs. Ole Miss. The list goes on… The football scheduling brass looked down upon their work. They savored their craftsmanship, as they had created a gift to all SEC college football fans of the world. They celebrated their achievement with high-fives and self-adoration, while visions of advertising dollars danced in their heads. The people approved. And they were pleased. Harmonious celebration was sure to ensue. Birds chirping. Children laughing. Fathers rejoicing. But in the distance, a thunderstorm was evolving, in the form of an intrusive, upper-level low made up of everlasting commitment and impending nuptials - a disturbance caused by a jet stream of affection; a cold front of love. Indeed, a friend scheduled his wedding on Nov. 7, and out of state Bradford Lipstick Half to Pgboot. Ad_Layout 1 12/4/14 2:43 PM Page 1 Suddenly, the vision of tailgating and grilling and chips and dips became blurry. The glory of the first
game starting at 11 and the last game ending at 11 and never missing a moment of it became distorted. The outlook was grim, and the future uncertain. Gloom, despair and agony were soon to be followed by deep dark depression and excessive misery. If it weren’t for bad luck I’d have no luck at all. After coming to grips with the certain doom, the football Gods smiled, and as luck would have it… the happy couple changed their wedding date. But there is no way I was going to erase all of this and start over. Rest assured, something will come up. It always does, just like it did 10 years ago. And sometimes, certain events trump (not an endorsement) others. To be fair, and for all of those keeping score at home, yours truly got married in the month of October which, of course, is smack-dab in the middle of football season. It was a gorgeous day, with lovely weather and low humidity. But most importantly, it was to a beautiful woman who has managed to put up with my eccentricities for almost 10 years. She deserves an award, and she most definitely deserved her wedding day whenever and wherever she wanted it. And she got it. That’s how it happens. And that, my friends, is priority. Happy Anniversary, Honey. I tweet insignificant things @ozborn34. Derek Osborn is the Executive Director of PRIDE of Tuscaloosa by trade and writer by hobby. He lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Lynn, and daughters Savannah and Anica.
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8 OPINION
September 2015
Lake Living: Stepping Out, Recharging and Enjoying Life by Allison Adams I’ve seen too many young people die recently. One was busy following the inherent dream he knew he had been meant to do since childhood. Another was busily working towards and close to the “one day” that he would be able to live the life he had set up to celebrate living. Another took his own life. There was no warning for either of these. In an instant life ended. We have all heard it: We are just passing through - just a flutter of influence to hopefully make a difference in life. We have one chance, and one life. So why is it that some people embrace
Allison Adams
every opportunity, inviting the sunshine in, and others hide from the dark shadow of one tiny cloud on the very same horizon? I know a couple. He is 90 and she is, well, let’s say in her late 60s (she likes to say that to feel “younger”). Every morning they exercise together. They travel and live life to the fullest. They have a date night each week. They didn’t marry until he was 80 – after each lost their “lifetime” loves and companions. A spark of life still lives on in them. Their inner youth is contagious. He recently crossed Grandfather Mountain with my husband and me with a spring in his step the whole way. Until I knew them, I barely thought of life into my 90s. Now, at almost 50 (I know! I can’t believe it! I wrote it!), I have hope that I can continue to live with a young heart as they do. I know a man who is 70 and in a nursing home - his tired body tortured by years of vivid living. He sits around, not even interested in the old guitar that fed his ego and his life, simply waiting until the end of his chapter. Another woman in a nursing home sprints each day a visitor appears to beat them to the door. Her body is in good shape, but her mind is unable to comprehend what might happen should she make the escape. I know some who covet items instead of activities. How many times have those “decorative treasures” been
the very things that children remember over their accomplishments? A child runs in with the first finger painting she is proud of, dropping it on the expensive Oriental rug or smashing some trinket her mama always dreamed of acquiring. The creative moment is lost forever squashed by the raging memory brought on about a spoiled square of wool or a broken vase. What does this have to do with lake living? Well, everything and perhaps nothing. That is up to you to discover. Embrace today as if it might be your last. Find that place that reminds you of life. I still look at the lake with wonder, seeing a different wave or scene each day. Life is evident as deer make their way to the shore or a snake slithers across the yard, a large bird eyeing it from above. Today, new hummingbirds hovered around a feeder outside my window. What do you see that makes you recharge with life? If you didn’t catch the recent meteor shower, it’s not your fault. Too many of us are just living our lives with our heads in the sand. Today, make it a goal to get out of the sand and stick your toes in some cool grass. Toss a ball
with a strangers kids if your own aren’t answering. I know, that is stepping out, right? We’re “not supposed to talk to strangers.” Freeing, isn’t it? You can’t be lonely when you just got challenged to meet new people! Dig out that old ________ (you fill in the blank) from the garage or the attic. Remember how you used to love to use it. Go paddle that canoe, catch that fish you keep talking about, whack that ball, or fly that model airplane you’ve had boxed up and let it soar! And lo and behold, get out that China and put away the paper. Use the real good stuff tonight. Use it every night. After all, you are still here, and isn’t that the best reason to celebrate? Cheers! And if none of this puts life in your sails, just know, football is on the way!
“What do you see that makes you recharge with life?”
Blessings. Allison Adams Find Allison’s musings at www.allisonpadams.com and her recent Tuscaloosa related coloring pages for all ages at www.southernscribblings.com. Follow her on Twitter at @ArtAllie.
OPINION 9
September 2015
Give Life to Your Story: Navigating Life’s Transitions by Mike Green In August, our youngest child, Ross, packed most everything he owned into his 2003 Toyota Corolla and started a 2000 mile trek that would end in Los Angeles. This California destination will be his home for at least the next nine months and his mother and I are nervously wondering if it may be a permanent move. Ross has been “out of the house” for most of the past five years, but he was never more than a 45-minute drive from Tuscaloosa. This move is, of course, much more significant for him and for us. As parents of young children, then teenagers and eventually adults, our relationships with our kids go through many significant transitions. Navigating those transitional phases can be scary. Dropping a child off at college or giving our new 16-year-old the keys to the car and the freedom that goes with it can test all our previous commitments to trust our son or daughter.
With two adult children, I have faced several of those transitions and I am sure I could learn much from many of you who have navigated far more of these “opportunities” than I have. But I would like to share a few insights that might just help those of you who will face them in the coming days. First of all, trust yourself. After 13, 16 or even 20 plus years you have invested thousands of hours into your child’s development. And yes, you made far more mistakes than you think you should have. You were not the perfect parent. But I know you care about your child. Why? Because you are taking the time to read this article. And though you are a flawed parent, your child has learned much from you. Even if some of their decision making as a teenager makes you question that. Here is one thing I have learned about teenagers: Sometimes they are very adept at not revealing that they are actually learning something. But far more is sinking in than you can imagine. Second, trust your child. This is a general principle and not a hard and fast rule, so give me a little grace here if you will. Our kids love to rise to the level we expect of them. Let your children know you trust them. Verbally communicate that trust. Let them know that this new stage of life will test them and that you “can’t wait to see how they perform.” Then celebrate together when they do well.
Third, trust God. As I wrestle with my shortcomings as a parent this one gives me much needed peace. The bottom line is, your children are more God’s than they are yours. He loves them, aches for them when they are in pain, celebrates with them when they succeed and has the omniscient ability to be concerned with their well-being even when we are busy working our jobs, attending to other children or getting away for a much needed vacation
with our spouse. I am convinced God is good. And that goodness means He is constantly concerned for our kids. I hope these insights are helpful. If you have some more please send them to me at mike@tuscaloosayfc.com. Mike and Laura Green have two grown children, Brittany and Ross. They serve on staff with Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ. Their first grandchild is due in September.
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10 COMMUNITY
September 2015
Tales of
Local author and historian Jim Ezell is busily writing a collection of historical stories about the Druid City and surrounding areas, in hopes of publishing a book ahead of Tuscaloosa’s bicentennial celebration in 2019. What began as genealogy search in 1992 quickly turned into a much larger project. As Ezell searched through over a century of newspapers at the University of Alabama’s Hoole Special Collections Library, he became fascinated by other articles from the Druid City.
Tuscaloosa
By Jim Ezell
Watery Chimes: September 9, 1874
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
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
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. 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
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cargoes such as coal, timber and steel from upstream mines, forests and factories. 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.
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COMMUNITY 11
September 2015
MIRACLE
continued from page 1
starting with the text. “God knew I would be the one to say ‘I’m curious; I’m so curious,’” Fetterly said. She showed it to everyone and even took it to a jeweler and minister, hoping one of them could give her insight into the language or the piece itself. All she learned in the beginning was that the language wasn’t Hebrew. A trip to UA’s language building gave her the next clue she needed: the language was Thai. But because it was summer, it would be weeks before any Thai students would be back to read this for her. After eight weeks, Fetterly still hadn’t learned much. “It was never
The mysterious bracelet was beautiful, but Cindy Fetterly had no idea what the writing meant. Photo: Cindy Fetterly
off my mind,” she said. Then a family member suggested she take the bracelet to the Thai restaurant on campus. On the day she was heading to Surin, the only Thai restaurant of which she knew, a friend who is a University police officer was at her house. She told him what she was doing and asked if he could give her specific directions to the “Thai restaurant on campus.” He gave her directions to Ruan Thai. Though the restaurant was closed, a woman answered Fetterly’s beckoning and came outside. She was able to read the inscription, sharing that it identified the temple and date of where and when it was made. She told Fetterly it was good to wear for protection. After hearing all that the woman could share, Fetterly started on her way, making a passing remark about finding the bracelet at the beach. This was the breakthrough moment. The woman’s countenance changed and she said her friend lost a bracelet at the beach. She started talking excitedly in Thai to others inside the restaurant. One of the young ladies, Fai, came out and became overjoyed when she recognized her own bracelet she thought was lost forever. As they opened Facebook to show Fetterly pictures of Fai wearing the bracelet, Fai shared that the Monk who made it had passed away so it was even more special because it could not be replaced. “I kept thinking ‘This has got
to say something I can use,’” Cindy said. “I never imagined I would carry it to the door of the person who lost it. It was a miracle. How else do you explain it?” As these new friends instantly bonded, they rejoiced that what once was lost had been found. They shared in this miracle of which they all were allowed to play a part. “I love being used by the Lord in any way possible,” Fetterly said. “This is how he used me and my family. We’re from
different parts of the world, believe different things, and God brought us together. He is using this story.” It became a reminder for Cindy, Fai, their friends and family, and all others who hear this story that happy endings don’t just occur in TV shows and movies. “The more people hear about it,” Cindy said, “the more God gets the credit and the glory.” And the more we are reminded that miracles do happen in real life.
Fai was thrilled to have her treasured bracelet back - one she’d thought she’d lost forever. Photo: Cindy Fetterly
’B out T ime Druid City Dames
bring Roller Derby to Tuscaloosa By Cokie Thompson Photos By Christopher Edmunds
O
n a humid Tuesday evening in August, a group of women from all over Tuscaloosa climb the stairs of the downtown YMCA to the gym — which has no air conditioning — strap on knee pads and lace up roller skates before starting on some cardio exercises. These women are the Druid City Dames, Tuscaloosa’s own roller derby team founded by Megan Gunter and a few other skaters from Birmingham’s team, the Tragic City Rollers. Gunter, known in derby as Valhallaback Girl, started trying to recruit Tuscaloosa women to join TCR about a year ago, with little success. When she started a Facebook page in June, she had a bit more luck, and things really got going when Druid City Brewing Company starting promoting the team. Gunter said her inbox was inundated and page likes went up considerably. “It was very overwhelming, but it was really awesome,” Gunter said. “I’ve been trying for a year to do this and then all the sudden, boom.” Gunter said the response has been unexpected, but fantastic. She started by recruiting Tuscaloosa women for TCR, but discovered there was enough interest to start a Tuscaloosa team. “I didn’t really have a goal in mind,” Gunter said. “I just wanted people who wanted to do derby to come and we’ll do derby.” She said she hasn’t seen this level of enthusiasm anywhere. Around 15 women come to each practice with gear they went out and found themselves, rather than getting it from the team in the way TCR is set up. Gunter said that level of dedication is visible in practice.
That very evening, Princess Nash borrowed a friend’s gear for the night to test it out. She had never participated in a practice before, but she had observed and seen a bout. “These girls are pumped,” Gunter said. “They do cardio. They get excited. They’re falling down, and they’re not discouraged. I’ve never seen a group of women so confident.” Nash, who said she hadn’t been on skates in 12 years, took a few minutes to get used to the
wheels, but eventually caught up with the group in their exercises. The last skill the team worked on, a backwards toe stop, gave a few team members a hard time, but Nash had it down. “I’m gonna have to see how I feel tomorrow,” Nash said. “I’m not a teen or 20 anymore. But I think I’m in.” Nash is new to derby, but not to adventure. She spent time in South America with the Peace Corps and travelling across the country on a motorcycle.
These girls are pumped. They do cardio. They get excited. They’re falling down, and they’re not discouraged. I’ve never seen a group of women so confident. —Megan Gunter
A health research specialist by trade, Nash said she’s glad roller derby is coming to Tuscaloosa. “Sometimes, especially with the college, and college students, things are so transient, and this is an activity that isn’t surrounded around the college,” Nash said. Being such a new group, the team is working on getting the basics down right now, but the coach, Kelly Wolfe, said that is a good thing. In more established programs, new skaters aren’t practicing with the rest of the team. “You kinda have to jump in and catch up to speed — no pun intended,” Wolfe said. “We have been able to start all together and work on things together.” Wolfe, otherwise known as Assault E. Senorita, started skating with TCR in 2009 after attending several bouts with friends. Like Gunter, Wolfe said the team has wonderful chemistry and a great work ethic. She’s seen teams that didn’t have what this group has. “If they wanted to get fit they would go to the gym. If they wanted to skate really well they would figure skate or learn how to dance on their skates. They signed up for a team,” Wolfe said. For right now, the team is working on stopping and falling. In October, they will move on to blocking before taking a minimum skills test established by WFDTA — the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association. “It’s so refreshing how bad everybody wants it, how hard everybody works, and how together everybody is,” Wolfe said. “I have no doubt that everyone will be able to pass their minimum skills test in October.” Oh, and Princess Nash? Wolfe said she’s a strong skater already.
14 COMMUNITY
September 2015
Chamber Announces Personnel Changes
UA to Host Chocolate Festival Photo and Story by Sheena Gregg
The Women and Gender Resource Center at The University of Alabama will be hosting its 5th Annual Chocolate Festival for Women’s Health on Friday, September 25, from 3 to 5 p.m. in Shelby Hall as part of UA’s Parents’ Weekend festivities. Proceeds from the event, which includes a silent auction, benefit the Women and Gender Resource Center’s various programs. Participants will be able to enjoy wonderful chocolate treats while learning about key women’s health needs, including breast cancer, heart disease, ovarian cancer, and body image. “We believe that the Chocolate Festival is a fun and tasty opportunity for the Women and Gender Resource Center to partner with various community businesses and restaurants to raise money for our victim services program,” said Paige Miller, the event’s coordinator. “We look forward to another successful year.” Tickets are $8 at the door. Everyone will be able to sample five scrumptious pieces of chocolate while learning health tidbits. Participating vendors include Edible Arrangements, Mary’s Cakes and Pastries, Krispy Kreme, and others. Please visit wrc.ua.edu for additional information.
The Chamber has announced the retirement of Loo Whitfield, Director of Education, effective this October. Whitfield has led the Chamber’s Adopt-A-School program for the past 10 years. She has also been heavily involved in the development of education-related community programs, including the Tuscaloosa Pre-K initiative, the Literacy Council of West Alabama and the Education Policy Council. Under Whitfield’s leadership, the program has seen extraordinary growth. More than 100 local companies and organizations are involved in partnerships with all 58 public schools in the Tuscaloosa City and County systems. Partners often provide much-needed financial resources to their respective schools as well as offer a significant investment of personnel to participate in various classroom programs. Chamber President and CEO Jim Page said, “Thousands of Tuscaloosa County students have benefitted from Loo’s energy, enthusiasm and genuine passion for education.”
Page has named Robin Jenkins, the Chamber’s Director of Communications and Marketing, as Whitfield’s successor. Jenkins served as the Assistant Director of Adopt-A-School earlier in her career. Carolyn Tubbs, the Chamber’s Assistant Director of Education and Events, will continue to work closely with the Adopt-ASchool program in addition to managing other Chamber initiatives. Allison McCants has joined the Chamber staff as Workforce Development Project Manager. She will provide administrative support to the Region 3 Workforce Development Council and West Alabama Works. McCants will also serve as a central point of contact for any entity seeking assistance with workforce training in the 7-county region, as well as coordinate meetings and activities of numerous industry workforce clusters. McCants earned a degree from the University of Alabama and has served as an Administrative Assistant for Harrison Construction, Inc. for the past eight years.
(L to R) Loo Whitfield, Robin Jenkins and Allison McCants Photo: Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama
POWER TO
CONSERVE Charles Yeager Manager and Education Director, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve
© 2015 Alabama Power Company
Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one. For Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, it’s helping preserve our state’s natural wonders. With a little help from Alabama Power to create an efficient home for Charles Yeager and an education center for the state, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve is proving that preservation keeps wonder alive. That’s power to conserve. That’s Power to Alabama.
AlabamaPower.com
COMMUNITY 15
September 2015
Play Pink for DCH Breast Cancer Fund By Tori Linville The DCH Foundation will host its three PINK events to raise awareness for breast cancer, with all proceeds benefiting The DCH Foundation’s Breast Cancer Fund, next month. There are several opportunities to get involved. To kick off the fundraising festivities, the foundation will host its Day on the Courts Ladies Tennis event on Tuesday, Oct. 13. A Nite on the Green and The DCH Foundation Golf Classic will follow, on Thursday, Oct. 15 and Friday, Oct. 16. Each event will be held at the Indian Hills Country Club. Former Alabama Gymnastics coach Sarah Patterson was key in helping make the breast cancer fund a reality. Casey Johnson, the foundation’s director of development, said it was then that the breast cancer awareness events began to form. “Back in 2004, The DCH Foundation was approached by Sarah Patterson to help uninsured and underinsured women with assistance in getting mammograms and needs associated with diagnosis and treatment,” Johnson said. “Because of her own struggle to get a clear mammogram, she had encountered many women who had shared their struggles while sitting together in doctors’ waiting rooms. Coach Patterson knew that together, we could put together a program to make a difference in the lives of women in need in our community.” The “Day on the Courts” was added four years ago to the event lineup, providing a tennis mixer that allows for breakfast, doubles play, lunch, gifts for players and prizes for winners, Johnson said.
“A Nite on the Green” includes music by Fast Lane Melvin, a band formed by Luke Standeffer, Scott Donaldson, Bob Falls, Stuart Falls and John Voltz. While the events make fun a priority, they also serve to create a better quality of life for breast cancer patients and their families, Johnson said. “Participation ensures uninsured women in our community will have the opportunity to have proper mammograms, further testing if needed, and wigs, prostheses and more if they are diagnosed with breast cancer,” she said. For more information, call The DCH Foundation at (205)-759-7349 or visit dchfoundation. org. to book a team or purchase tickets. “The color pink is known everywhere as the ‘color’ for breast cancer awareness,” Johnson said. “The important thing is not the actual color, but the faces behind it. Far too many women (and men) are being diagnosed with breast cancer. Early detection is so important. Treated early, they are living longer, happy, healthy lives.”
12th Annual Wine for the Walk to Benefit Juvenile Diabetes Foundation By Laurie Mundy Perrigin This year’s Wine for the Walk will be held on Wednesday, September 30, at the Lake Tuscaloosa home of Brooke and Doug Hamiter. The 12th annual event benefits the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), and organizers say it just gets bigger and better with each passing year. “We continue to be humbled by the amazing generosity of our Tuscaloosa community,” said Michelle Crouse. “With each passing year, we have seen the event grow.” In 2004, a little more than a year after Cameron’s diagnosis, Crouse wanted a way to raise funds for her son’s JDRF WALK to Cure Diabetes team, Cameron’s Crew, in a fun way. Thus, the wine tasting event was born. Today, it is one of the largest single-event fundraisers for type 1 diabetes in Alabama. In 2003, Crouse’s son, Cameron, was diagnosed with type 1, or juvenile diabetes. Since then, Crouse and her friends have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the disease. Several other Tuscaloosa families who are also fighting diabetes have joined in the effort, and the commitment to a cure is strong. In addition to the superb wine and high gravity beer offerings, several Tuscaloosa restaurants are participating, including Surin of Thailand, Chuck’s Fish, Five and Evangeline’s. The evening’s wine varietals will be provided by Proof Beverage; Greene Beverage is donating the craft beer selection. For more information about Wine for the Walk and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, visit Wine for the Walk Facebook page or www.jdrf.org/alabama.
16 COMMUNITY
September 2015
UA Opera Guild to Hold “ACT II” Gala By Tori Linville A night filled with music, fine dining and more can be found at the University Opera Guild’s second annual gala. The gala, entitled “Act II” will be held Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. in the Grand Gallery of the Alabama Museum of Natural History. Proceeds will benefit the University Opera Theatre and its students. The guild looks to continue its success in its second year by holding the second gala. The previous year’s gala allowed the Guild to raise more than $20,000 for the Opera Theatre, Elizabeth Aversa, president of the Guild, said. “We were able to raise a lot of money for a first time organization,” she said. “We even received an award from Opera America and the Opera Volunteers International for our efforts. We hope we can do just as well this year.”
The Gala will be organized into ‘scenes.’ Scene One is to be a buffet dinner, followed by Scene Two, a silent auction to benefit the University Opera Theatre. Scene Three will conclude the night with music by alumni and students directed by Paul Houghtaling. The musical selections will range from opera to musical theatre performances and more, Aversa said. The silent auction is to feature items that involve entertainment opportunities, artwork with artist contributions and more. While the auction and dinner is to draw a crowd, the benefits of the gala are far-reaching, she said. A wide array of individuals and programs within The Opera Theatre benefit from the Gala. “Our funds [from the Gala] help to pay for students; productions. It’s everything from scholarship to production,” she said. “Every benefit of the funding is to benefit the students of the Opera program and the opportunity to perform is a chance to enhance their professional resumes.” Tickets are available and on sale for $100 for the event. Formal attire is optional, and parking will be available near the museum and the Hackberry Lane transportation hub. For more information about tickets and parking, those interested can contact the Opera Guild at uaoperaguild@gmail.com. “They [the students] go on to do such great things and we just want to help with that,” Aversa said. “We hope people just come to hear these students because they’re just fabulous.”
GARDEN
continued from page 1
good time,” Cameron Kizzire, DCGP’s public relations coordinator, said. “Attendees in the know have seen what the party is raising money for, which is part of why they keep coming back. Many share a passion for gardening, education, or both. They know our program is a working model to improve schools. They know that by showing a child where food comes from, how to grow and eat it, how to do math, and other subjects in an outdoor, living, tasty classroom, they enjoy learning more, engage more with their studies, and learn to make healthier decisions throughout the rest of their life.” Chuck’s Fish, Hotel Capstone, Jim ‘N Nicks Bar-B-Q and others will help to cater the party. Breweries such as Druid City Brewing Company, Band of Brothers Brewing Company and Black Warrior Brewing Company will all supply the party with their creations. A variety of items can be found in the party’s silent auction. Offerings include an oil sketch portrait from Caleb O’Connor, football tickets and even a trip to the beach, Kizzire said. The Druid City Garden Project began as an educational program designed to highlight locally grown produce as a way to support the community. As fresh produce began to grow within community gardens, students are taught lessons about health, agriculture, math and more through the Gardens 2 Schools program. A menu and silent auction updates can be found by liking The Garden Party page on Facebook. Tickets are on sale for $55 and can be purchased for $50 for groups of four. Visit druidcitygardenproject.org/thegardenparty to find out more. “Local farming, local business, and community support is what DCGP and The Garden Party is all about,” Kizzire said. “We are a local organization that is part of the local fabric, and it is always a joy to bring the local harvest, talent, and treasure together with our community for a delicious, foot-stomping night.”
A vA i l A b l e A t
MOUNTAIN BROOK • B I R M I N G H A M 2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Birmingham, AL, 35243 205-201-7400 www.Diamonds-Direct.com
18 SCHOOLS
September 2015
Tuscaloosa County High School’s CATS- TV Holds Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New Studio By Brodrick Williams Tuscaloosa County High School’s broadcasting program, CATS- TV, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Aug. 4, to celebrate its new studio. The University of Alabama’s WVUA donated its old set to the Tuscaloosa County School System. CATS-TV is a student-run broadcast program that is shown throughout the school and is available for the community to watch through Tuscaloosa County High School’s website. “I think when students see this, they will want to get more involved in extracurricular activities,” Head Principal Cynthia Simpson said, shortly after cutting the ribbon. “When [students] participate in extracurricular
(L to R) TC Wildcat Hunter Sexton, Andrea Matei (CATSTV assistant), Lynn Brooks (WVUA), Kaitlyn Pettway, Seth Evans, David Spencer, Nick Macon, Hudson Harris, LaMarcus Weir-Hill, Brodrick Williams, Amaya McNealey and Jody Evans (sponsor); seated: Eli Evans and Christian Thomas. Photo: Jody Evans
activities, they tend to do better.” Before giving Simpson the green light to cut the ribbon, Jody Evans, CATS-TV sponsor, reiterated how grateful the broadcast program was to receive the studio. “The excitement that this new studio has generated is unbelievable,” Evans said. “Our students are thrilled to have this studio at County High.” Evans said the program started roughly four years ago and followed the lead of the program that she began at Hillcrest High School. Schools in the Tuscaloosa County System that have broadcast programs are Brookwood High School, Hillcrest High School, Sipsey Valley High School, and Tuscaloosa County High School. Evans hopes that the program will also include Northside and Holt in the near future. “I can see this studio being a way to reach students in our feeder schools such as Echols Middle and Collins-Riverside,” Evans said. “Our students at TCHS can train those students in the middle schools to become better speakers and writers through the study of broadcast journalism.” When asked what tips he can give to students involved with CATS-TV, Director of Student Services Gregory Hurst was quick to respond. “Students should be dedicated, knowledgeable of their task at hand, team players, professional, able to follow all rules and regulations, and they should enjoy their overall experience in high school,” he said.
Holy Spirit Celebrates First Mass of the School Year Holy Spirit Catholic School students, faculty, and family members joined to celebrate the first Mass of the school year on Thursday, August 20 at Holy Spirit Church. The Holy Spirit Choir, directed by music teacher Mrs. Annie McClendon, is made up of students from 2nd-graders to 12th-graders. Holy Spirit School welcomes Father Tom Ackerman, newly appointed Pastor of St. Francis Parish in Tuscaloosa, who joins Father Jerry Deasy and Father Rick Chenault as a new celebrant for Holy Spirit School Masses.
SPORTS 19
September 2015
Saban Biography is Engaging, Engrossing
Alabama head coach Nick Saban criticized Monte Burke’s recently released biography during a fall press conference.
The recently-released biography written by Monte Burke about University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban, titled Saban, The Making of a Coach, has received a host of positive reviews, and is no doubt a huge seller, especially in Tuscaloosa with the college football season now underway. Saban himself, however, expressed displeasure with the book during the Crimson Tide’s fall camp, especially with the timing of the release of the 324-page book that basically chronicles his coaching career and how he was shaped by his relentless and demanding father, among others. “I just want everybody to know that I’m opposed to an unauthorized biography for anybody,” he said. “I think that is some person you don’t even know trying to profit by your story, or someone else’s story. One of these days when I’m finished coaching at Alabama, I’ll write an authorized book, because, you know, there’s really only one expert on my life, and guess who that is, me. There won’t be any misinformation, there won’t be any false statements, there won’t be any hearsay and there won’t be any expert analysis from somebody else.” Despite the objections from the ninth-year Alabama coach, who did not participate in the work at all, Burke’s tome is, nevertheless, engaging, and, at times, very engrossing. While the book rehashes many of the stories that anybody who follows Alabama football, or college football in general, has heard many times before, such as the chain of events that
by Stan Griffin
allowed late former Alabama athletic director Mal Moore to lure Saban to the Crimson Tide program and away from the NFL’s Miami Dolphins, it is well-researched. It is also enhanced throughout by revealing quotes from numerous former coaches and players. Many of these quotes are blunt, and, at times, critical - especially regarding Saban’s demanding and profane nature on the field and his tendency, especially early in his coaching career, to quickly jump from job to job. “He wasn’t very personable, which is okay because he wasn’t paid to be personable,” former Cleveland Browns linebacker Ed Sutter noted about Saban during his tenure as an assistant coach with the Browns under Bill Belichick. “But he tried to intimidate and threaten players, even vets like Clay Matthews. That works in college, but not in the pros. He was kind of a little tyrant walking around out there. And because he was just a coordinator, you could blow him off, and sometimes guys did just that.” Despite a few unsavory comments, no doubt made by players and coaches whom Saban rubbed the wrong way on his journey to the top of the college football coaching ranks, the numerous anecdotes and stories by individuals who have known the Tide coach on an intimate basis make the book a must read. Many of those experiences related by friends and acquaintances in Burke’s book no doubt helped shape Saban into the energetic, relentless, demanding, non-frivolous and often short-tempered individual he is today.
20 OUTDOOR How to Survive Tailgating Season It’s a nationally known fact that the South takes its football seriously. So seriously, in fact, that there’s often that little saying that the four seasons in our neck of the woods are actually Winter, Spring, Summer and Football. No argument there. But it doesn’t stop with Football. It could be argued that there’s another season that’s becoming pretty big on its own. Football’s little brother, Tailgating Season, is here and it’s past time for you to secure your spot on an SEC campus for the ultimate pregame experience. In Bama country, Bryant Denny’s 101,821 seats are reserved for those who buy tickets, but outside the colossal stadium is another story. Fans and alumni with (and without) tickets spend their game days soaking up the rays and watching the game on the flat screens they lug out to the Quad every Saturday. They spend their time trying to perfect a Yellowhammer while jamming out to the loudest music you’ll ever hear. They scream “Roll Tide” and hang out at The Walk of Champions. Because ‘tis the season. Tailgating season means grilling. It means having great times with good friends. It means you need supplies.
September 2015 by Tori Linville
Most of all, it means business. We’ve listed some tailgating essentials just in case you need help double checking when the time comes. First off, where’s your cooler? Whether it holds five gallons or 500, you’re going to need a great cooler. Hydration is key, and keeping your drinks on ice is a must. We don’t really need to say much more, but this: Are you wearing comfy shoes? This is mainly a concern if you’re trying to look super put-together. Dress up all you want, but dress down when it comes to the shoes. You’ll be on your feet for a while, so don’t forget it. Ladies, yes, wedges are awesome but by days end you’ll be screaming for your flip flops. Where’s your grill? Only one of the most important tailgating tools. Ever. This puppy brings the burgers to your friends and the hot dogs to your kids. Now imagine the friends and the kids minus the food. Hungry. Angry. Hangry. If you’re in the market for a new grill, try out designer Eddie Licitra’s newly designed grill with tailgaters in mind. Foldable, customizable and it’s even able to double as a dolly.
Top Right: A quality cooler like the Yeti Roadie will help you and your guests beat the heat on the Quad. Photo: yeticoolers.com Right: Grills are a must if you are going to provide food at your tailgate, and folding grills make packing easy. Photo: Core77.com
Turn Your Outdoor Space into a Tailgating Paradise If your deck or patio has seen more dried up leaves, stray grass and weeds this summer than actual activity, you might be in need of an outdoor living space overhaul. If you’re planning on watching the Alabama Crimson Tide play from the comfort of your own abode, you’ll certainly want to get the most out of your outdoor space. Here are some of outdoor entertainment’s go-to top trends to help fix your outdoor woes so you can enjoy rolling with the Tide in true Crimson style. First things first – start with an ideal outdoor room. The classic outdoor room not only establishes an outdoor area, but also makes for a welcoming environment
that guests will enjoy. The experts at bobvila.com have some great tips and tricks that make this seemingly overwhelming task a pretty easy fix. Start with a roof that frames your outdoor area – a pergola with some vine potential or even an awning are some options to check out. After dealing with the roof, go to the ground: lay out an outdoor rug that compliments your color scheme and/or outdoor furniture. Speaking of color schemes and what not, go for bulky(ish) furniture and earth tones that will obviously compliment the surroundings. Furniture pieces that allow for a guest to kick back and relax are almost always preferred over a dainty lawn chair (if
The right outdoor fireplace (or fire pit) provides a dramatic focal point for outdoor entertaining. Photo: Keith McCormick
those even exist). Easy care fabrics are an obvious choice for weather-wear. Lastly, add some lighting. String lights are a popular craze, but anything you prefer will do. Just make sure to illuminate the area when it’s dark out. Next up: an unforgettable grill If there’s one trend that will never go out of style, it’s the outdoor stovetop - otherwise known as a grill. High-tech grills with tons of features can be found virtually everywhere. For example, the Saber Smart Edge Grill, with an infrared top and optional ceramic glass lid, is a Consumer Reports favorite. If watching the food slowly cook wasn’t enough, the grill hooks up to WiFi so a phone can keep track of when to cook, when to clean and when to fuel up. If you’re looking for a more straightforward number, other Consumer Reports grills included the Weber Spirit E-220, the Weber Spirit SP-320 and a Kenmore grill. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces: A multipurpose focal point Fire pits have been all the rage for a while now, and with good reason. As a center point for décor arrangements, the fire pit isn’t just for show. It provides warmth, light – and makes for a great s’mores maker. Outdoor fireplaces are also a popular choice, according to Keith
by Tori Linville
McCormick with Willcutt Block & Supply Co. “We usually see a spike in sales of outdoor fireplaces in the fall and in the spring. We sell a few during the hottest part of summer – but not as much.” McCormick says the options for outdoor fireplaces are virtually unlimited. “There are many different kinds,” he said. “There’s one that’s a masonry outdoor fireplace, and it can be veneered any way you want. We carry others that are for the most part pre-built.” In terms of design, some people have a clear vision of their backyard fireplace oasis, while others are looking for a little more help. “Some people have already done research and they know what they want,” McCormick said. “Others have a general idea and they need a way to make it a reality.” These days, a homeowner can dream very big when it comes to outdoor spaces for entertaining. One suggestion: Call a professional to help with the larger plans. As the backyard or patio area is being transformed, start planning those Halloween parties, football parties and Thanksgiving gatherings with friends and loved ones. That’s the fun part, after all.
September
Calendar of Events presented by — Sundown Lecture Series: Sept. 10, 5:15-6:30 p.m. Jemison Van de Graaff Mansion, downtown Tuscaloosa. The Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society presents “Historic Plant Preservation,” with speaker Jason Powell, owner/operator of Petals from the Past in Jemison. This event is free to TCPS members; $5 for non-members. For more information, visit HistoricTuscaloosa.org or call (205) 758-2238. 6th Annual Raising Hope Silent Auction: Sept. 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuscaloosa River Market. Catholic Social Services of West Alabama’s major fundraiser features silent auctions on a variety of different items, including furniture, vacations, jewelry, gift cards, and more. Tickets: $15 per person; $50 for a party of five. For more information, visit www.csstuscaloosa.org. The Black Jacket Symphony presents AC/ DC’s Back in Black: Sept. 11, 8 p.m. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets: $25-30. For more information, visit www.bamatheatre.org. 5th Street Vintage Market: Sept. 13, 11 a.m.4 p.m., 4150 5th Street, Northport. The Vintage Market is a great place to find unusual and unique treasures, from vintage books, clothes, and jewelry to handmade items, vinyl records, and more. For more information, visit www.5thstreetvintagemarket.com. Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa Adopt-A-School Golf Tournament: Sept. 17, Ol’ Colony Golf Complex, Tuscaloosa. The four-man scramble tournament is the annual fundraising event benefitting the AAS program. All teams will begin play with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.tuscaloosachamber.com. 13th Annual Canine Classic 5K Road Race: Sept. 19, 8 a.m. Kentuck Park, Northport. This road race benefits the Humane Society of West Alabama. The first 150 registrants will receive a t-shirt on the day of the race and all entrants will be entered into a drawing for door prizes. Walkers are welcomed. Registration forms are available at www.humanesocietyofWA.org or www.tuscaloosatrackclub.com. For more information, call (205) 554-0011. Sober Tailgate Tuscaloosa: Sept. 19, 2-6 p.m. Government Plaza, downtown Tuscaloosa. This family-friendly, free tailgating event before the Alabama vs. Ole Miss game includes food from Full Moon BBQ, popcorn, cotton candy and other great treats. Fun includes face painting, bounce houses and Big
Al! For more information, call Tara Moore at Bradford Health Services at (205) 750-0227. Hunt for Hope: Sept. 20, 3-6 p.m. T-Town Cafe, Tuscaloosa. This is a family-friendly scavenger hunt, with proceeds used to fund research for inflammatory breast cancer. For more information, email Terrylynnarnold@gmail.com. 5th Annual Chocolate Festival for Women’s Health: Sept. 25, 3-5 p.m. Shelby Hall, University of Alabama campus. The Women and Gender Resource Center’s annual event includes great chocolate treats, a silent auction and more. For more information, visit wrc.ua.edu. The ACT Presents Mary Poppins: The Musical: Sept. 25-28. Bama Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. This musical features a wealth of local talent. It is based on P.L. Travers’ series of children’s books and the 1964 Disney film Mary Poppins. Tickets: $12-20. For show times and tickets, visit the Actor’s Charitable Theatre’s official website at theactonline.com. The Whispers, The Manhattans and The Spinners “Sounds of Motown”: Sept. 25, 7 p.m. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Ticket prices: $55.50, $45.50 and $21. Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit Ticketmaster.com, call the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater Box Office at (205) 2485280 or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000. Kentuck Art Night: Oct. 1, 5 to 9 p.m. Downtown Northport. This event is free to the public. For more information: www.tuscarts.org/artnight. 2nd Annual Opera Guild Gala: Oct. 2, 7 p.m. Grand Gallery, Alabama Museum of Natural History, University of Alabama campus. This event features music and food, along with a wonderful auditory evening, all presented by the Opera Guild of the University of Alabama Opera Theatre. Proceeds help to fund student scholarships. Tickets: $100. For more information, visit www.uaoperaguild.org. First Friday: Oct. 2, 5-9 p.m. Downtown Tuscaloosa. Local galleries, businesses and restaurants are open as an event for the community to see what downtown Tuscaloosa has to offer. For more information, visit tuscarts.org. Tuscaloosa Community Walk to Stop Diabetes: Oct. 3, 9 a.m. (8 a.m. registration), Bama Belle Park, Tuscaloosa. Every dollar raised through the Community Walk is used to support the Association’s mission: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more
information, visit main.diabetes.org/goto/tuscaloosawalk or email spressley@diabetes.org. Walk to End ALZ: Oct. 3, 8-10 a.m. Snow Hinton Park, Tuscaloosa. The funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer’s benefit the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. For more information, email steph.buffaloe@homeinstead.com or call (205) 764-0387. Druid City Garden Party: Oct. 4, 5-8 p.m. Smith Hall, University of Alabama campus. The Druid City Garden Project’s annual fundraiser pairs 14 local farmers with eight local restaurants for one big feast. Guests can sample each restaurants’ food at their leisure while enjoying beer from three local breweries and dancing to an old-time string band. A kid’s crafts section is available as well. For more information and tickets, visit www.druidcitygardenproject.org/ thegardenparty. Moundville Native American Festival: Oct. 7-10, Moundville Archaeological Park. Performers, artists, craftspeople and tradition bearers are on hand to educate festival-goers about the rich culture and heritage that makes Southeastern Indians unique. Includes living historians, arts and crafts arbors and children’s area. For more information, visit Moundville.ua.edu. Luke Bryan Farm Tour 2015: Oct. 8, 7 p.m. Twin Creeks Farm, 7710 Old Tuscaloosa Highway, McCalla. General admission tickets: $47 ($52 on day of show). For more information, visit lukebryan.com. Northport Citizen of the Year Dinner: Oct. 8, 7-8:30 p.m. Five Points Baptist Church, Northport. For 40 years, the Northport Citizen of the Year Awards program has celebrated outstanding leadership in the city. For reservations, contact Stacey Gann at stacey@tuscaloosachamber.com or call (205) 391-0559. Alabama: Oct. 9, 8 p.m. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. Ticket prices: $75, $59.50. Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit Ticketmaster.com, call the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater Box Office at (205) 248-5280 or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000. Tuscaloosa Farmer’s Market: Tuesdays and Saturdays, 7 a.m.-noon. Tuscaloosa River Market, 1900 Jack Warner Blvd, Tuscaloosa. Shop for fresh produce, grass fed beef, baked goods, cheeses and more. Buy fresh, buy local. For more information, visit www.tuscaloosarivermarket.com or call (205) 248-5295.
22 FOOD
September 2015
SEPTEMBER RECIPES
Game Day Recipes Sure To Please
Recipes and Photos by Amy Poore
Mini Pimento Cheese Ball Bites
Whether you’re attending a tailgating party on the Quad or hosting a backyard gathering at home, these recipes are sure to please any football fan. The Mini Pimento Cheese Ball Bites are perfect for tailgate gatherings, and the Skillet S’mores are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without venturing beyond the covered patio or the deck (because you sure don’t want to miss a second of the game). Bon appétit! Amy Poore is a new mom, a wife and a foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, www.pooreamy.com
Skillet S’mores
• 1/2 Tablespoon melted butter • 1 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips • 7-10 jumbo marshmallows, cut in half • Box of graham crackers
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Swirl butter around the bottom and sides of an 8 inch iron skillet. Evenly spread chocolate chips in the bottom of skillet. Arrange marshmallow halves on top of chocolate chips (cut side down). Place on middle rack and back 6-10 minutes or until the tops of marshmallows are browned. Let sit for five minutes; serve immediately with graham crackers. *Skillet and dip will be hot.
Start by making the pimento cheese ahead of time: With a hand mixer, mix the cream cheese until smooth, add in mayonnaise and continue to beat until it’s all incorporated and smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic salt, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Once again, beat until evenly mixed throughout, scraping the sides of the bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Refrigerate overnight or for at least four hours. Once chilled, combine bacon, pecans, and jalapeños in bowl.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature • 1/4 cup mayonnaise • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder • 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper • 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated • 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained • 18 ounces bacon, cooked until crisp and finely diced • 1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and finely chopped • 1 jalapeños, minced (seeds & membranes removed) • Pretzel sticks
Remove pimento cheese from refrigerator, scoop out a tablespoon and roll into balls. Roll each ball in the bacon mixture. Place on a wax paper lined cookie sheet and chill. When ready to serve, remove from refrigerator and stick pretzel stick into top center of ball. Note: This can also be made into one large cheese ball and served with pretzel chips or crackers.
September 2015
TASTE OF TUSCALOOSA
Great Places to Grab a Bite on Game Day Chances are your fall revolves around football season. Hungry out-of-towners and locals alike can agree that gameday food is a must. Check out these places to grab a bite before or after the game! The Waysider A great day starts with a great breakfast. Fluffy, delicious pancakes, country potatoes, and mouthwatering bacon make a trip to the Waysider a Tuscaloosa tradition. Donned in Alabama memorabilia and nostalgic décor of the Crimson Tide’s most famous characters, out-of-town guests will thank you for bringing them to The Waysider. Big Bad Wolves Barbecue If you’re looking for something right on The Strip, Big Bad Wolves BBQ will give you the game day experience you’ve been looking for. Massive barbecue nachos will make your time in line worth the wait. DePalma’s Italian Cafe Italian cuisine may not scream football season, but it does scream delicious. Made from scratch pastas and signature dishes complement the cozy yet upscale space for lunch or dinner on your game day weekend. If you’ve got room for dessert, don’t forget to order the white chocolate bread pudding! Avenue Pub Featuring brunch, lunch, and dinner,
the Avenue Pub aims to please. Buffalo sliders, fish & chips, bacon burgers, and Thai nachos will make your mouth water. Specialty cocktails and craft beers make this the ideal place to stop after the game. Rama Jama’s With menu items like the “14 National Champs BLT,” the “Ain’t Nothing But a Winner Polish Dog,” and the “Touchdown Burger Platter,” how could you not want to stop here before the game? Located conveniently beside Bryant-Denny Stadium, Rama Jama’s is a people pleaser for locals and out-oftowners alike. Mellow Mushroom Pizza makes the world go round, especially for a family crowd looking for tasty eats on game day weekend. Mellow Mushroom boasts a perfectly textured crust combined with traditional and unique pizza toppings, and it’s conveniently located in downtown Tuscaloosa. Archibald’s Barbecue If you and your crew are looking for a treasure off the beaten path, consider Archibald’s Barbecue. Featured in one of ESPN’s original “Taste of the Town” segments, Archibald’s Barbecue in Northport has ribs described as “the best in the nation.” Creamy coleslaw and old-fashioned white bread keep Archibald’s customers craving more.
FOOD 23 by Sheena Gregg
Rama Jama’s is located right next to Bryant-Denny stadium. Photo: Sheena Gregg
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