Druid City Living September 2018 by Druid City Media

September 218 | Volume 6 | Issue 9 Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper

FROM TUSCALOOSA TO LEXINGTON:

GROUP TAKES BENCHMARKING TRIP TO THE BLUEGRASS STATE PAGE 12

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

About Us.................2 Opinion.................4 Business..................8 Community........10 Schools.................17 Food.....................20 Calendar...............23

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@DruidCityLiving

UNITED WAY AIMS HIGH

CHEESE PLEASE

UWWA kicks off 2018 fundraising campaign, revealing a large goal.

Cheese Louise brings mouth-watering creations to Tuscaloosa.

SEE PAGE 14

SEE PAGE 21

GET CRAFTY Need some storage ideas? Get creative with Woodbank Lane.

SEE PAGE 22

LOVE THE MOVIES? FILMS NOT TO MISS THIS FALL PAGE 18

2 ABOUT

September 2018

FROM THE EDITOR CEO/Publisher

Josh Watkins (205) 529-5723 josh@druidcitymedia.com

Vice President

Hanson Watkins (205) 835-0094 hanson@druidcitymedia.com

Editor

Laurie Mundy Perrigin (205) 246-2977 editor@druidcitymedia.com

Art Director

Nathan Pearman nathan@druidcitymedia.com

Marketing Consultants Caroline Baxter Nathan Pearman

2018 Intern Faith Henley

Hi readers! It’s here: football season. And with that comes that buzzy excitement in my bones as I figure out my game day outfits, plot out my living room seating arrangement for optimal viewing pleasure, and prepare to explain to my friends who “just don’t get it” that I’ll be unavailable most weekends for the next several months. Derek Osborn, aka “Oz,” knows this feeling too, and he’s even giving us a little test, just to see if we’re truly dedicated fans. It’s hilarious, and fun (I scored an 8, just FYI). And Derek, I’d add another Q to your list: Have you ever been foolish enough to schedule a wedding on a game weekend? (We didn’t – we waited for a bye week, 23 years ago). But so much more is also happening

here in Tuscaloosa this month. Special thanks to Shane Dorrill for a really insightful piece about how our great city is looking to other cities, like Lexington, for ways to improve and grow. And the United Way Campaign for the year is officially underway, with a lofty goal, and I’m sure they can reach it – with our help. You’ll find some great food articles this month, as well, from Amy Poore’s delish chicken to Sheena Gregg’s profile of a fab grilled cheese food truck, titled appropriately enough: Cheese Louise. Enjoy this month’s DCL, and we all thank you for your readership. RTR!

PHOTO OF THE MONTH

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

Exchange Club Awards Grants to Local Groups The Exchange Club of Tuscaloosa Foundation recently awarded several community grants. Seven local organizations received the grants at the Exchange Club’s Aug. 2 meeting. Over 25 years, grants totaling $374,000 have been awarded. Grant recipients for 2018 are (seated, L-R): Nisa Moore, Junior Achievement; Jean Rykaczewski, WA Food Bank; and Kathryn Adams, Boys & Girls Club. (standing, L-R): Vickie Kerr, Caring Days; Larry Deavers, Family Counseling Service; Bill Gosselin, Boy Scouts; and Bill Shafer, Salvation Army. Photo: Glen Smith

What social media is best for my business? The majority of Americans use at least one social media channel. Facebook (68% of Americans) and YouTube (73%) dwarf the other social media outlets in sheer numbers and have the broadest demographic reach plus have a strong relationship with purchasing decisions. Younger users (18-24) use a variety of channels heavily, such as Snapchat (78% of young users), lnstagram (71%) and Twitter (45%), in addition to Facebook. Purchasing behavior is more closely aligned with Facebook and lnstagram than other social media outlets. Linkedln, while low in overall usage numbers compared to other outlets, is especially popular with college graduates (50%) and high income households.

You can focus on your business

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YouTube, while not typically thought of as social media, has many social elements and can be a strong part of a social media strategy. To reach the most people in the broadest demographic, Facebook is the best choice for most businesses today. Their ad platform is simple and it is easy to pinpoint based on location and interest. However, businesses that are very focused on younger demographics or have a client base closely aligned with another platform (Pinterest for crafting or Linkedln for recruiting or lnstagram for lifestyle brands) may choose to focus on those platforms. Note: Businesses don't necessarily have to choose. Posting to multiple channels at the same time is available in a variety offormats.

Hanson Watkins, MBA VP Operations -DCMedia 25 years experience in digital marketing 205.835.0094

www.druidcitymedia.com Caring. For Life. with the latest technology.

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If you have rising PSA levels, ask about UroNav at DCH. Find out if the UroNav Fusion Biopsy System is right for you: UroNavatDCH.com. URONAV TRAINED UROLOGISTS: West Alabama Urology Associates: Dr. Matthew Thom (pictured), Dr. Howard Winfield (pictured) and Dr. Kenneth Aldridge Tuscaloosa Urology: Dr. Raymond Poore, Dr. Ingrum Bankston, Dr. John Duffy III, Dr. Gregory Broughton and Dr. Anne Scott

Dr. Matthew Thom

Dr. Howard Winfield

4 OPINION

September 2018

The Mommy Chronicles: A Day in the Life (and Why Organization Matters)

By Marlena Rice

As a kindergarten mother, I am so happy to see my Little back in school. Summer was great, there was a good bit of rest to be had, and, boy, was it had, but… I’ve gained back a huge sense of mommy purpose. With a husband who works from home, there were many days this summer that I came home and felt completely out of the loop. Now, I’ve asserted myself, putting into practice a few things I’ve always planned to do. Let me tell you, organization during the school months is key, whether you have kids in high school, or starting school for the first time. Here are a few tips that I hope will help you get back into the school groove. Make the decision that you will be successful in your scheduling. In most families, moms are the bread that hold the family “sandwich” together. Pray over your family, assert yourself during the times you feel like you can’t handle the tasks at hand, and do your best. It will all work out. Create a routine that fits your family. My son is amazing with his schedule. After our first day of school, I was adamant that his bedtime would be around 8:30 p.m., and that we’d have some sort of enrichment time each evening. We’re only a few weeks in, but we are doing it. What can you do? Start off by deciding your child’s bedtime. Once

you know your end game, plug in any necessary activities, a regular time for dinner, and add time for all the things that are important to you and your family. Stick to the schedule, no matter how tired you are. Enjoy the (often too little) time you have with your child. A schedule is beneficial for everyone. Bathe your children at night. My Little used to weasel his way out of his nightly bath with cute faces, multiple requests for late night snacks, drinks, and even tears. These past few weeks, I’ve been super consistent. And I’ve enjoyed not having to fight a temper tantrum during a morning bath. What can you do? Even if it’s early, if you know your child is in the house for the rest of the night, make bath or shower duty happen, and go about the rest of your evening. I overheard a mom say once that her children’s bath night was “Wednesday.” Scheduling is great, but I’d strongly encourage you to do this more than once a week. Ha! Marlena Rice is a busy mom and writer who lives in Tuscaloosa with her husband, Rod, and their son, Beaux William. Check out her blog at heartfullybuilt.com. Beaux William is ready for his first day of kindergarten at Riverwood Classical School. Photo: Marlena Rice

Give Life To Your Story: Ask Your Children Deeper Questions to Get Deeper Answers By Faith Johnson-May When I look at my 9-year-old stepson, long gone are the days of him being stuck to my hip. Now he likes to entertain himself through books, YouTube, Fortnite, and television, and he’ll engage in these activities as much as we allow. At first, this can seem like a great break for us tired parents who juggle

“WHEN WE ASK OUR CHILDREN DEEPER QUESTIONS, IT SHOWS THAT WE ARE INTERESTED IN THEM AS A PERSON.” many different responsibilities. We have realized, however, how important it is to still engage him in deeper conversation – more than we usually have during dinner, or in passing. We’re learning how to take advantage of the time we often took for granted in the past. Things like car rides and trips to the store now provide us opportunities. We’re like pirates searching for “hidden treasure.” I typically ask both our boys questions. What made your day great? Have you been kind to someone lately? They’re great starter questions, and they sometimes provide amusing answers. But we still long for deeper conversations. We want way more than “yes” or “no” answers. Working with high school students with Youth for Christ, we consis-

tently work on asking open-ended questions, and the ability to do so has proven valuable in my home life. Open-ended questions are questions that cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.” These open-ended questions may seem simple, but it’s easy to run out of things to ask. I’d suggest having a few of them in mind, so you’ll be ready when opportunities arise. And be ready with follow-up questions to keep the conversation going, like, “Why do you feel that way?” I’ve included some conversation starters and open-ended questions. Let the conversation flow organically, but most importantly, I encourage you to dig deep Faith Johnson-May is the director of Parent Life, a ministry for pregnant and parenting teens within Youth for Christ. past those “yes” or “no” She is married to Perry May, and has two stepsons, Zachary, and Kayden May. If you would like more information about responses. Parent Life, please email Faith at faith@tuscaloosayfc.com. Photo: Faith Johnson-May If you could make up a brand-new school thing, every day, for the rest of your them feel valued, which can go a long subject, what would it be? Would you life, what would it be? What is your way toward improving their self-esrather eat your least favorite vegetafavorite thing about yourself? How do teem. And hopefully, as parents, you ble, or have extra homework? When you make friends? When you woke up too will find some “hidden treasure” you’re sad, how do you make yourself this morning, what was the first thing that your child is just waiting to share. feel better? What’s your favorite day you thought about? of the week? Would you rather take When we ask our children deeper a picture, or be in the picture? When questions, it shows that we are interyou’re waiting for something, how do ested in them as a person. It will make you pass the time? If you could do one

OPINION 5

September 2018

Lake Living: “It Takes So Little to Make Big Changes,” So Start Today By Allison Adams

Although some of us wish summer vacations could last forever, they don’t. It’s September now, and it’s time to get focused. Sure, we miss lazy days, but there’s also a bit of relief about getting back into a routine. Locally, there are big things happening, as new schools are being planned, and some new ones are opening their doors to accommodate Tuscaloosa’s bloom of growth. Some families, however, are feeling a bit anxious about school expenses and obligations for their little ones. A fellow Realtor, Tyler Bigbie, who has a big heart for acts of kindness, started Bigbie’s Big Blessing, surprising one family with loads of school supplies. There were several nominations, so I thought some of our readers might like to help the others. If you want to help, call Tyler at 205-8266476 or email him at tylerbigbierealty@gmail.com to contribute. Accepting the UNICEF Danny Kay Humanitarian Award, actress Salma Hayek said, “It takes so little to make big, big changes.” This is so true. Local churches are making waves in prisons by loving on the unloved every single week. And the big changes are everywhere. The mayor of Stockton, California, Michael Tubbs, is experimenting with giving low-income families $500 a month, with no strings, to give them

relief. Pessimists are waiting to watch it fail. What was his response to that? “I don’t mean give everyone a jet. Give them an income floor… we don’t know what they’ll do with it. I want to try it in my city, good or bad. I am an eternal optimist. I know the folks in my city, and I believe it is going to be good.” One of my magazines had an “everlasting summer” list of things that we We took a wonderful vacation this summer to California. I’m doing everything I can to extend my everlasting summer! Photo: can all do beyond Allison Adams the summer months If you’re looking for a place to Allison Adams is a mom of four and to extend that wonmake a difference locally, there are a Realtor with Lake Homes Realty derful feeling. Most of them were for serving Lake Tuscaloosa. For comself-satisfaction, which is good (that’s lots of individuals, groups, and businesses doing great things. Not sure ments, email aadams@lakehomes. what summer is about, after all). But where to start? Giving blood is always com. beyond stomping grapes, sightseea good option. And after that, who ing, feasting on fish, and watching knows? You may come up with your the stars, there is more. We can do all these things with our kids, but we also own way to give back and make big changes. If so, be sure to share it with need to find a way to teach them to spread acts of kindness. That’s guaran- us at DCL. Blessings, teed to make waves. Try it this week, and see how great it feels. Allison Little things. Big changes. Tuscaloosa is seeing lots of them.

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6 OPINION

September 2018

The Land of Oz: Do You Have “CFVD”? How to Tell (and In-Home Testing) 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.” Don’t worry. CFVD is not as bad as it sounds. By the time you read this, you most likely will have taken in your first annual dose of the phenomenon that is College Football. If for some reason you haven’t, it probably means that you are immune to CFVD (College Football Viewing Disease). Should that be the case, I congratulate you… for you officially have 13 more free Saturdays throughout the year than those that suffer from the affliction. CFVD is a common ailment that typically strikes within the late summer and fall months, but it can persist through winter in extreme cases. It is especially prevalent in the Southeast. As of this writing, there is no known cure. Signs and symptoms of CFVD vary from person to person, and can include, but are not limited to: weight gain (snacks and drinks), increased cholesterol levels (snacks and drinks), inadvertent sleeping (halftime naps), sleep deprivation (West Coast games), itchy, watery eyes (prolonged visual stimulation), rash/bed sores (prolonged couch-sitting), grouchy spouse (stemming from largely ignored house chores, such as grass-cutting, trash takeout, general home maintenance, etc.), a marked increase in chicken wing consumption, increased heart rate/ blood pressure (if your team scores, or if your team doesn’t score), and extreme emotional fluctuations (irritated/frustrated to overjoyed/ exuberant, or vice versa, during the process of one play). If these symptoms sound familiar, it is important to identify whether you, or a loved one, has been infected. Please answer the following questions honestly: • Is watching all or a portion of College Gameday part of your Saturday schedule?

• Are you familiar with the term, “MACtion?” • Do you know how to spell the word “Go” in Louisiana? • Do you check the TV schedule to see who is playing College Football on Thursday and Friday nights? • Have you memorized Alabama/Auburn/ Your Favorite Team’s 2018 Schedule? • Do you know what color Boise State’s field is? • Have you ever set up two or more TV’s in one room for maximum viewing? • Can you name the four primary hosts on College Gameday? • Do you know what color Eastern Washington’s field is? • Do you commonly go to sleep watching the late-night PAC-12 game? Scoring Guide 1-3 Affirmatives: CFVD has not completely set in. There is still time to avoid altogether. Spend time with friends and family who do NOT watch football, and enjoy 13 extra Saturdays in your year. 4-6 Affirmatives: CFVD is probable. Embrace it, and go all out, or seek medical advice. Do or do not… there is no try. 7-10 Affirmatives: CFVD is full blown. Invest in Pepto-Bismol, Neosporin, chicken wing restaurants, a lawn care service, and some quality eye drops.

Derek Osborn is the Executive Director of PRIDE of Tuscaloosa by trade and a writer by hobby. He lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife, Lynn, and their daughters, Savannah and Anica. Find him on Twitter @ozborn34.

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GROWNUPS WERE STUNNED AS HE CHARMED THE SERVER INTO GIVING HIM Recover from Surgery in Spa CREAMorWITH Setting Instead ICE of Hospital Home SPRINKLES AND Recover from Surgery in Spa Recovering from surgery is grueling on both patient and family caregivers. stays are expensive HOT Hospital FUDGE, from surgeryare is grueling both patient and and typically patients releasedonbefore they are ready to resume daily activities. In addition, there SettingRecovering Instead of Hospital or Home family caregivers. are expensive typically have to THE be completed. These may be physicalHospital therapystays programs or otherand therapy programs thatON HOUSE! patients are released before they are ready to resume daily

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8 BUSINESS

September 2018

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BUSINESS 9

September 2018

Now Open and Opening Soon 1 1 3D Dance is now open in Tuscaloosa (4029 Greensboro Ave Unit B). A grand opening celebration for the dance studio was held on Aug. 15. Fall registration is open and classes are available for ages 18 months to adult. 3ddancetuscaloosa.com; (205) 860-5964 2 Druid City School of Ballet held a ribbon

cutting on Aug. 24. The dance school, located in the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center (2502 7th Street), provides quality classical ballet training to the youth of Tuscaloosa. druidcityballet.com; (205) 872-7782 3 Krystal has reopened its Tuscaloosa restaurant (3710 McFarland Blvd. E) after a complete overhaul. The new building is Krystal’s new prototype, the first of its kind in Alabama. Design elements feature crimson red, and the new restaurant, built by local contractors, has a redesigned drive-through for speed and serviceability. The restaurant reopened on Aug. 20; a grand reopening is scheduled for Sept. 13. krystal.com; (205) 556-4733 4 Schlotzsky’s Austin Eatery is now open again in Tuscaloosa – in its old location (405 15th St E.). Schlotzsky’s features hand-crafted creations with bold flavors, including sandwiches, soups, and salads. A grand opening was held on Aug. 9. 5 The Charm District (2020 Hackberry Lane) celebrated its ribbon cutting on Aug. 23. The Tuscaloosa store, previously Thrifty Charm Boutique, offers unique fashion finds and gifts at reasonable prices. (205) 462-3744

News and Happenings 1 The 2018 Adopt-A-School Kickoff, presented by Smile Doctors, was held Wednesday, August 1 and featured a panel discussion moderated by Terri Brewer of WBRC Fox 6. Panelists from Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Inc., Vance Elementary School, Onin Staﬃng, and Central High School discussed some of the successes their partnerships have created for students.

4 Shelton State Community College has named Jason Moore as the College’s Dean of Workforce and Economic Development. A graduate of Shelton State, Moore brings 21 years of varied experience in manufacturing, teaching, and college leadership, most recently serving as Shelton State’s Associate Dean for Corporate Programs.

2 The Chamber of Commerce Association

of Alabama has named Jim Page, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, the 2018 Chamber Professional of the Year. The award, presented at the CCAA Summer Conference in Point Clear, recognizes the exemplary performance and leadership of an Alabama chamber professional to his or her local chamber and professional achievements of the candidate. 3 The Legacy Connection (TLC), a privately-owned company located in Tuscaloosa, has been chosen for an award for outstanding telecommunication services. It has been honored with the exclusive ATSI 2018 Award of Excellence for the 10th year in a row. The Legacy Connection partners with clients to integrate business solutions and design communication strategies for them. callerconnection.com; (800) 250-5160

Jason Moore

Business you want to see here? Email us at: editor@druidcitymedia.com

10 COMMUNITY

September 2018

Family Counseling Service: Looking for Love Online? How to Stay Safe By April Stevens

Dating is always an adventure, but online dating has particular aspects that can make it even more eventful. There are pros and cons. If you’ve tried online dating, I’m sure you could name a few yourself. One major pro is the convenience. You can browse literally thousands of profiles of people you may never meet otherwise, on your schedule. You get to check out pictures, get to know their personality, and can decide if you want to talk to potential dates, with just a swipe. Some dating sites make it even easier, with systems to match you with supposed compatible partners. Cons can have serious negative consequences. Predators may use online dating to find victims; whether for monetary gain or sexual assault. Predators usually have a type, and online dating profiles make it easy for them to find their next victim. There are some tell-tell signs to look out for… “Catfishing” is the term to describe those who use social media to scam others into giving them money. In my online dating experience, I’ve encountered this – some people claimed they worked overseas, internationally, as engineers, in the oil industry, as contractors, and, sadly, in the military. Many men will say they’re widows with children, pulling at your

heart strings. Some women will send provocative photos. Both will usually want a serious relationship very quickly. Eventually, the scam artist will ask for monetary help. Sexual predators will often use different methods. They will also try to gain your trust quickly. They may ask for explicit photos. They may ask to talk off the site early, to avoid being monitored. They may change plans “at the last minute” to catch you off guard, and to make you more vulnerable. They will know exactly what to say, because they’ve read what you said you’re looking for. If you’re dating online, how can you protect yourself? Be careful. Always meet in a public place. Drive separately. Bring someone with you, even if they sit at a different table, to add an extra layer of protection. Do not go to their home by yourself, and do not invite them to yours. Make them earn your trust before allowing them deep access into your personal life. If something feels off, leave, or don’t go. Online dating can be fun, but it can also be dangerous. Take precautions to protect yourself, so you enjoy the experience. At Family Counseling Service, the counselors can advise you about safe boundaries in relationships. Be safe out there. Love and Peace, April L. Stevens

April L. Stevens, LICSW, PIP, is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and counselor with Family Counseling Service in Tuscaloosa.

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From Tuscaloosa to Lexington Chamber of Commerce Takes Annual Benchmarking Trip By Shane Dorrill

Top: The Lexington Center, which includes Rupp Arena as well as a convention center, is part of the public-private partnership between the city of Lexington and the University of Kentucky. Bottom: University of Alabama Athletics Director Greg Byrne was among the delegation that toured the Lexington Center and Rupp Arena. Photos: The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

What do Lexington, Kentucky and Tuscaloosa have in common? A lot, according to Jim Page, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. “Serving as home to an SEC university is the first thing that comes to mind,” Page said. “Both communities have a focus on higher education, and a strong commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation.” Page and more than 90 business leaders, elected officials, and community members traveled to the Bluegrass state in June as part of the Chamber’s second annual benchmarking trip. In 2017, the Chamber took a group of more than 70 to Greenville, South Carolina. “Benchmarking is a unique and valuable experience for attendees, because it gives you the opportunity to see first-hand the results of the decisions other communities have made,” Page said. “Not only does this process enable you to apply lessons they’ve learned to your own city, but it allows you to demonstrate the areas where you are on the right path, and why, and

what makes your own community a great place to live.” Page said Lexington was chosen because of its growing economy, public-private partnerships, and it’s focus on the cultural arts. “One thing that was key in our selection was that Lexington is an SEC city accustomed to

an enthusiastic fan base, and we were able to examine the University of Kentucky’s relationship with the City of Lexington. We also wanted to take a look at how they develop and encourage an entrepreneurial, technology-based economy, which is a goal for West Alabama,” he said. Tripp Powell, president of

Kuykendall & Powell Oil Company, was impressed with Lexington’s economic development, and believes it could serve as a roadmap for future economic growth in West Alabama. “I like what Lexington has done with job-based grants that encourage higher pay,” Powell said. “I also like what they have

done with angel investing, and entrepreneurship cultivation.” “One of the things that Tuscaloosa will have to embrace, going forward, is the trend towards knowledge-based industries, and transitioning towards technology-based investing and industry. The days of property tax abatements as a determining factor for location are coming to an end, because a multimillion dollar company, at least one that does it smartly, can exist in an extremely small footprint with a small, highly educated employee infrastructure,” he said. To better understand how Lexington officials increased tourism and downtown development, the group heard from Bill Owen, president and CEO of the Lexington Center Corporation, which is a public-private partnership. The Lexington Center includes a convention center, shopping area, and Rupp Arena, which hosts, among other events, University of Kentucky basketball games. Page said some of the ideas that were shared could be used here. “We know we want to bring more conventions and conferences in to our area, and we have to make sure we get the formula exactly right,” Page said. “It’s not an overnight

process. There will have to a thoughtful discussion about the area’s needs, with respect to convention versus exhibit space and capacity.” Powell said he was most impressed by the boldness of the people of Lexington to see a brighter future for their city, and to work toward those goals. “I think that the most important take away from the trip is that Lexington saw itself at a turning point in the 70’s, and the community was bold and decisive in where it saw its future,” Powell said. “As they put it, they decided to evolve from a ‘college town to a university city,’ and researched similar sized cities with Universities to set benchmarks. What they found, as Tuscaloosa will find if it does the same study, is that all of the pieces they needed were in place, and what they actually needed was a unified approach to achieve the same goals,” he said. Page agrees that a unified approach is what’s needed to move West Alabama forward. “The one lesson I think all 92 of us learned? Work together. In every single instance of success we’ve seen, even people who weren’t on board to begin with eventually climbed into the boat

and started rowing in the same direction as everyone else. Without a consensus, positive change doesn’t happen,” he said. Page is pleased with the change in the mindset he has seen in the community just after the first two benchmarking trips. He believes city leaders from both Tuscaloosa and Northport are already putting ideas into place, and points to committees that have been formed to discuss everything from infrastructure to housing to public art as examples. He said the first pieces of public art are being installed in the coming weeks and months. Next year, the Chamber’s benchmarking trip will be to Chattanooga. According to Page, leaders plan to take a close look at how the city developed their riverfront in hopes of bringing some of those ideas back to Tuscaloosa. “We know next year’s trip will be even bigger, and I encourage anyone who is interested in positively impacting the future of our community to join us,” Page said.

More than 90 local business and community leaders, as well as elected oﬃcials, traveled to Lexington, Kentucky in June as part of a benchmarking trip. Photo: The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

United Way of West Alabama $4 Million Goal

Kicks Off Annual Fundraising Campaign with

By Faith Henley

The United Way of West Alabama campaign kickoff luncheon was held on Aug. 14. The Homer Butler Agency of the Year Award went to Tuscaloosa’s One Place. Photo: United Way of West Alabama

The United Way of West Alabama recently kicked off its annual fundraising season with a luncheon for Tuscaloosa’s most dedicated volunteers. These volunteers work yearround to make the Tuscaloosa community a better place for all. At the Bryant Conference Center on Aug. 14, campaign officials unveiled their highly anticipated fundraising goal for the year. “Our goal will be $4 million,” said Julie Mann, communications director of United Way of West Alabama. “That’s a big milestone for us, and the

largest percentage jump in a year we’ve taken.” This year’s ambitious goal was decided in part by 2018 Campaign Chairman Jordan Plaster, who received support from the United Way as a child. Born with a hearing deficiency of 75 percent, Plaster was able to get into a longterm treatment plan through the Easter Seals Rehabilitation Program. Plaster stuck with the treatment plan for over nine years, eventually completing his education and becoming a successful financial planner. “I am just one person who

was touched by a UWWA agency,” Plaster said. “United Way of West Alabama has 26 partner agencies that help thousands of individuals. In fact, one out of four West Alabama residents are impacted by UWWA and their partner agencies.” About 90 cents of every dollar raised by UWWA goes directly to support organizations and initiatives for diverse causes in West Alabama. Over 100 volunteers review requests throughout the year to distribute the United Way’s funds for maximum impact.

“There are so many more people who need or can benefit from their services, but who may not know about what programs are in our community to help them – that is why I am committed to raising money for the UWWA campaign,” said Plaster. From supporting wellknown programs like the YMCA, Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama, and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, to offering a community helpline, the United Way contributes to life-changing aid every single day, Mann says.

UWWA campaign kickoff luncheon attendees, including Hamner Real Estate, enjoyed a special photo booth to commemorate the occasion. Photo: United Way of West Alabama

â&#x20AC;&#x153;One gift, when combined with so many others, can truly make an impact in so many ways, from providing our youngest citizens with free books and educational programs, to helping those struggling with basic needs in their daily life and to giving those

older adults with memory disorders a friendly place to go during the day, so their family members can resume a normal daily work routine,â&#x20AC;? she added. UWWA has many exciting events coming up for the community to get involved in, including the YLS Tuscaloosa

Scavenger Hunt. On September 13, go explore downtown Tuscaloosa, meet new people, and win prizes. For other ways to help, and more information, visit uwwa.org.

Tales of Tuscaloosa Castle Dangerous (September 21, 1900)

Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Miller were walking toward the end of Washington Street, now known as Lurleen B. Wallace Boulevard North in downtown Tuscaloosa. It was Friday evening, September 21, 1900. In the darkness, the 68-year-old Mrs. Miller did not see the edge of a gully that had eaten into the street, and she fell to her death. Later, her husband received a settlement from the City of $2500—equal to about $65,000 over a century later. The Washington Street gully was part of a large ravine covering about 40 acres. In places, it was as much as 100 feet deep. Its expansion threatened several streets and buildings. Part of the area near Market Street (now Greensboro Ave.) was stabilized by construction of the Burchfield Hotel in 1912. A few years later, a dam across part of this ravine created Stallworth Lake. Eventually, the lake and adjacent areas became a city landfill. After filling, River Road (now Jack Warner Parkway) extended across the site, and a farmer’s market and baseball fields were constructed. In 2010, the ball fields and underlying waste were removed, and the Tuscaloosa Amphitheatre was built upon the site. Another troublesome ravine known as the “Big Gully” reached the intersection of College and Broad Streets (21st Ave. and University Blvd.). William R. Colgin was said to have constructed the first frame house in Tuscaloosa near it sometime prior to 1821. One night in 1840, part of the Big Gully washed out, leaving the house on its edge. Afterwards, the Colgin Home was known as “Castle Dangerous,” perhaps in reference to the last novel by Sir Walter Scott, published in 1831. After repeated repairs and collapses, the gully was finally stabilized. Benjamin Hardaway, a University of Alabama civil engineer, developed a successful design and oversaw the project. There were other big gullies that constantly eroded away from the south bank of the Black Warrior Top: The gully at the end of Washington St. (now Lurleen Wallace Blvd. North). Broad and Market Streets are now University Blvd. and Greensboro Ave. respectively. Detail River. A gully at the ends of Jack- from an 1887 perspective map. Bottom: The gully at the intersection of College and Broad Streets. Detail from an 1887 perspective map. College St. is now 21st Ave. and son and Deer Streets (now 28th and extends down the hill to Jack Warner Parkway. Halls and several dormitories. Thou30th Avenues) eroded so far that by sands of cubic yards of material were About the Author 1887, it was nearing the former State used to fi ll and stabilize the area. The Jim Ezell is a retired engineer, histoCapitol building. Another gully extendsite is now occupied by ten Hoor Hall rian, and author. His newest novel, The ed beneath Huntsville Road (University and parking decks. Cistern, was published in Dec. 2017. Blvd.) into an area that was later filled These gullies were all signifi cant The Cistern is an adventure/crime novel and became the Audubon Place neighset in Tuscaloosa and fictional Tombigborhood. These ravines were so trouble- obstacles to the eastward expansion of a growing Tuscaloosa, and they posed a bee County in the Alabama Black Belt. some that two streets, Spring and Pine formidable threat to northern portions of The Cistern is available on Amazon. (2nd and 3rd), were never constructed. downtown. After more than a century, com. As shown on a 1944 University of they were brought under control, but Alabama campus topographic map, a they still require vigilance and maintenearly 45-foot deep gully extended into nance to keep them in check. campus behind Morgan and Bidgood

SCHOOLS 17

September 2018

Shatisa Pierce, Tuscaloosa County High School doesn’t make an A.”

By Faith Henley While the early years of education involve picking out fun, patterned supplies and learning to read, each later year brings a new set of challenges, expectations, and stressors to students. That’s why teachers like Tuscaloosa County High School’s Shatisa Pierce do everything they can to help their students turn their trials into triumphs. For 14 years, Pierce has taught advanced English language classes and led the choir at Tuscaloosa County High, where she began her teaching career after graduating from the University of Alabama. Pierce sees first-hand the enormous pressure put on today’s young adults to stand out from their peers and chase certain standards of success. She believes relief from the pressures they face comes, in part from the support they receive at home. Her advice for parents with children facing the trials of young adulthood is simple. “Don’t put unrealistic expectations on your children,” Pierce said. “They already feel a great deal of pressure in school. They don’t need the added anxiety associated with not living up to your expectations. It’s okay if your child

Parents and teachers alike play an important role in building the confidence of young people and encouraging their success. The students Pierce sees walking in the hallway every day are the future leaders of our community – a responsibility she does not take lightly. “Students remember every word you say to them, whether positive or negative,” she said. “You can be the one to push them to achieve their dreams, or the one who causes those dreams to die. Your words are life or death. Love on

“DON’T PUT UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS ON YOUR CHILDREN. THEY ALREADY FEEL A GREAT DEAL OF PRESSURE IN SCHOOL. “ your students, because you may be the only one to ever show them love.” The influence Pierce has on the students at Tuscaloosa County High School not only improves their experience as a student, but also creates a group of confident, socially conscious individuals who will carry Tuscaloosa into a brighter future. “We should always be in search of more, hoping to better ourselves as individuals and as a society,” Pierce said. “I teach my students to think for

themselves and to not easily accept everything they hear. I teach them the importance of acknowledging past mistakes, in the hopes of not repeating them, and I teach them that their brain is their greatest investment, because it has the potential for the biggest return.” While the English lessons Pierce teaches her students are Photo courtesy of Shatisa Pierce. vital to her students’ edtered, that their success was important ucations, the unwavering support and acceptance they to me, and that they learned.” feel from their time in her classroom supports their personal growth. With the help of social media, Pierce continues to build relationships with many of her former students long after they graduate, start jobs, and begin families of their own. “I hope that my students walk away saying that I loved them, that they mat-

Bryant High School Named Naval Honor School Three Years in a Row By Shane Dorrill For the third consecutive year, the Paul W. Bryant High School Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (MCJROTC) program has been designated a Naval Honor School by the Marine Corps Reserve Association. “It was a great honor to be named a Naval Honor School once, but to receive the distinction three years in a row is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students in our program,” said Maj. J.D. York, Senior Marine Instructor at Bryant High. “There are a small number of schools in the country that have an established tradition of excellence. You expect to see their names on the list every year similarly to how you expect to The Marine Corps Reserve Association has designated the Paul W. Bryant High School Marine Corps Junior Reserve Oﬃcer Training Corps (MCJROTC) program as a Naval see Alabama football in the top Honor School for the third consecutive year. Photo: Paul W. Bryant High School five every year. To be included among these schools sets a stan“It is our students that go out and program.” ing up on time or getting good grades, dard in the program that challenges the accomplish all the great things we have In order to earn the Naval Honor and there’s no in between,” York said. students to be continuously improving achieved. Master Sgt. (Dustin) Garig School distinction, the Bryant cadets “You are either ‘Full Mission Capable’ all of the time.” and myself simply provide them with displayed an extreme amount of dedica- or ‘Not Mission Capable.’” The honor means Bryant’s MJROTC guidance and set up opportunities for tion and hard work according to York. “As a Marine, it is unacceptable to program ranks in the top 20 percent of them to learn and excel,” York said. They achieved a “Full Mission Capable” ever be ‘Not Mission Capable,’ so we all programs in the country. This year, “We had an outstanding group of score on their most recent Commanding are proud that the Marine Corps has Bryant finished in the top five of all senior cadets who were fully committed General’s Inspection. found our program to be satisfactory, schools selected for Region 2, which is to the program and put forth their best “Marines define everything in terms and that our cadets have met or exceedmade up of Alabama, Georgia, Tenneseffort in everything they did. They took of mission, meaning there is an impered the requirements that are expected of see, Florida, and the Carolinas. York the initiative to introduce new events ative to make sure everything you do them.” said the high ranking should be credited and activities that really helped grow the is accomplished, whether it’s showto last year’s cadets.

Film Corner Five Films Not to Miss This Fall By Jerry Roberts

The summer movie season is behind us, the weather will soon cool off (we can hope), and, fortunately for film lovers, some great movies are on the way this fall. There’s a lot coming out between now and December. Here are some of the highlights, so you can plan your trips to the theater accordingly.

A Star is Born (October 5)

Here is no less than the fourth iteration of this showbiz love story that has previously starred Janet Gaynor, Judy Garland, and Barbra Streisand. This one stars Lady Gaga (aka Stefani Germanotta) as Ally, an up and coming artist who is discovered and coached by a seasoned musician named Jackson (Bradley Cooper, who also directs). Once she’s on the way to stardom, their paths diverge. Ally rockets to fame, and Jackson’s career hits the skids due to his alcoholism.

Bohemian Rhapsody (November 2)

You can probably surmise by the title that this has something to do with Queen. And you’d be correct. Directed by X-Men’s Bryan Singer and starring Rami Malek, this is the full-blooded biography of the band, focusing on the life and times of Freddie Mercury – a man who defied conventions, stereotypes, and even preconceptions about what a musician is and should be. Bohemian Rhapsody follows the rise and fall of the band, leading up to their legendary appearance at Live Aid in 1985.

Ralph Breaks the Internet (November 21)

Unofficially known as Wreck It Ralph 2, this Disney sequel takes the reformed video game villain and his sidekick, Vanellope von Schweetz, into the landscape of the internet in order to find a missing part to save Vanellope’s video game.

Creed II (November 21)

Officially, this is the sequel to 2015’s Creed. Unofficially, it’s the seventh sequel to Rocky. Either way, the story figures that Adonis Creed (Apollo’s son) has been trained by Rocky and become the heavyweight champion – only to be challenged by Viktor Drago, son of Rocky’s former competitor, Ivan Drago. He’s also the man who killed Adonis’ father in the ring 30 years ago.

Mary Poppins Returns (December 19)

The world’s favorite “Practically Perfect” nanny returns (played by Emily Blunt) in this long-awaited sequel to Walt Disney’s 1964 classic. Time has passed, Jane and Michael Banks (Ben Whitshaw and Emily Mortimer) have grown up, and the Banks family has grown apart. Mary, after a personal loss, returns to their lives to help them find their togetherness again.

Jerry Roberts is a movie critic and movie fan who believes in Birth-Movies-Death. He is the historian for armchaircinema.com and armchairoscars.com, and he has a blog at overthinkingoscar.wordpress.com.

COMMUNITY 19

September 2018

DCH Hospitals Among First in State to Use New Infant Safety System By DCL Staff

Every parent has them as mementos of their baby’s birth – tiny ink footprints, taken shortly after their child was born. Now, nurses at DCH Regional Medical Center and the Women’s Pavilion at Northport Medical Center are using a new, hightech infant safety system that digitally scans a baby’s footprints after birth. DCH Health System hospitals are among the first in the state to use the new system, which was purchased through a grant from The DCH Foundation. It allows staff to capture high-resolution footprints of newborns. The digital footprints, and a security photo, are stored in the newborn’s electronic medical record. The scan can be used for precise identification in situations like abduction. “Much like fingerprints, footprints are unique to each baby, so they can be used for identification throughout a lifetime,” said Traci Swann, nurse manager of the Newborn Nursery at DCH Regional Medical Center. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children recommended the system to hospitals in its most recent Infant Security Guidelines. “This new system is entirely safe for use on babies and provides outstanding footprint quality,” Swann said, adding that the system replaces the time-consuming, and often messy,

Lacey Burleson, an RN in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Women’s Pavilion at Northport Medical Center, scans the footprint of Alexandra Gray, daughter of Patricia and Sammy Gray. Photo: DCH Health System

ink and paper method. Anna Roberts of Tuscaloosa recently delivered her son at the Women’s Pavilion. She’s impressed with the new system. “I was very excited to know that my infant’s footprints can be used for identification, and that they are stored for a lifetime,” she said. “And I can print a digital copy of the footprint that can be kept as a memento of my

baby’s birth.” Each new mom receives a printed certificate of her newborn’s footprint during her stay. When she gets home from the hospital, she can visit a special website to download a digital copy of her baby’s footprint, and enhance it using software that offers different colors, fonts, and borders.

Giving Back to Tuscaloosa by Hanson Watkins

In our ongoing series about giving in Tuscaloosa, we asked local leaders why they chose where to place their efforts. From helping people reach their full potential to reaching good health, these business leaders are giving back to Tuscaloosa in a way that matters to them. As I sleep in my warm bed under a roof that doesn’t leak, in a house with plumbing and electricity that are fully functional, I know there are people in Tuscaloosa County who are living in third world conditions. Those are the people we help at Habitat Tuscaloosa. For myself, I have been given much and I feel much should be expected of

I support Easter Seals of West Alabama. Easter Seals helps people reach their full potential. That is important to me - and our community.

Ellen Potts Director for Habitat for Humanity Tuscaloosa Photo: Ellen Potts

I work for a nonprofit hospice organization, but I also am a volunteer board member for the West Alabama Transitioning Care Home coalition. I am the chair of a work group titled Community Engagement for the WATCH coalition. The goals of the work group are to improve patient and family engagement in self-care to increase overall health literacy in our area. If we are able to prevent hospital re-admissions effectively, and engage our community in self-care, our healthcare system will be stronger and better able to provide for those in our community. Latrelle Porter Executive Director Hospice of West Alabama Photo: Latrelle Porter

I also teach Zumba fitness classes at an affordable rate, giving away two scholarships per month, to help keep residents in our community healthy!

Ken Gaddy Director, Paul W. Bryant Museum Photo: Univerity of Alabama

20 FOOD

September 2018

Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet, Crunchy Peanut Butter Stacks

September Recipes By Amy Poore

HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1/3 cup honey • 1/2 cup soy sauce • 1/2 cup ketchup • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano • 1 tablespoon dried parsley • 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds Combine garlic, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, oregano, and parsley in a small mixing bowl. Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Happy Almost Fall, Y’all. I’m sure you’ve all been running around like crazy now that the kiddos are back in school. It’s time to slow down, just for a bit, and share a great family meal. This honey garlic chicken is a snap to make, and I guarantee it’ll keep everyone at the table longer. And for dessert? These crunchy peanut butter stacks are a classic. And guess

Pour the sauce over the chicken. Cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. Shred chicken in the slow cooker, and stir to combine with the sauce. Serve over cooked rice noodles topped with toasted sesame seeds.

what? They’re no bake! Yep, I’ve hooked y’all up with some tasty recipes that don’t require your oven. You’re welcome. Have a great month, and bon appétit! Amy Poore is a Tuscaloosa mom, wife, and foodie. To see more of Amy’s delicious recipes, visit her blog, Poore Amy, at pooreamy.com. Photos by Amy Poore.

PEANUT BUTTER STACKS • 1 cup light Karo syrup • 1 cup sugar • 1 cup peanut butter • 6 cups corn flakes In a small saucepan over low/medium heat, combine the syrup and sugar until the sugar dissolves. It will not take long; do not overcook. Remove from heat, and stir in the peanut butter until smooth. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cereal and peanut butter mixture.

Place scoops of the final mixture on wax paper, let harden, and store in an airtight container.

FOOD 21

September 2018

Taste of Tuscaloosa: Cheese Louise Joins the T-Town Food Truck Scene

By Sheena Gregg Did someone say cheese? Grilled cheese? Yes. Yes, they did, and it’s on a food truck. On June 1, Cheese Louise made its Tuscaloosa debut, with Lee Decker, Billy Swift, Jon Harris, and James Bates behind the wheel. With prior experience in the food truck industry, grilled cheese master Lee Decker decided to go out on his

own and bring his mouth-watering recipes to the masses. After enlisting the help of Swift, Harris, and Bates, Cheese Louise was born. “Billy, Jon, and James all come from a background in web development and did not want to pass up the opportunity to be a part of such a tasty venture,” said Decker. “I knew they would be the team that would not only help on the ground floor, but also continually push the envelope with the food truck’s web and social media experience.” The long lines at Live at the Plaza over the summer are a sure indicator that T-Town has embraced this new addition to the food truck scene. “Our catering business has been booming, with frequently booked events in both Tuscaloosa and Birmingham regularly. I’ve been amazed at the lines at the public events we’ve served as well,” said Decker. If you need a recommendation about what to try on the hunger-provoking menu, the team at Cheese Louise say “The Yellowhammer” and “The Party Animal” are customer favorites. With grilled chicken, bacon, and classic ranch wrapped between massive amounts of cheese, the Yellowhammer is a must-try. The Party Animal is also a fan-favorite, consisting of a hearty helping of homemade buffalo chicken dip between

Top: Lee Decker is no stranger to the food truck game. Now, he’s bringing his own spin to grilled cheese concoctions and sharing with the folks of Tuscaloosa. Bottom: The Cheese Louise truck can be spotted all over T-Town, including Alabama home football games this fall on Bryant Drive. Left: With muenster cheese, chipotle sauce, pork BBQ, onion, bell pepper, and jalapenos, this sandwich, “The Gentleman,” is a staff favorite. Photos: Cheese Louise

multiple slices of fresh cheese. Both sandwiches are served up on appetizing buttermilk bread. Did you think Cheese Louise could do anything else to get your attention? If you’re doubtful, let me tell you that Cheese Louise is one of the first food truck eateries in Tuscaloosa to partner with Uber Eats – so fans can have their sandwiches delivered to them anywhere in town. Ready to try Cheese Louise for

yourself this fall? Look for the truck on Paul W. Bryant Drive at Trinity United Methodist Church every Alabama home football game this season. For more information about Cheese Louise, including a full menu and locations, visit cheeselouise.co.

WOODBANK LANE Getting Creative with Storage By Kathryn Wilkerson

“A place for everything, and everything in its place.” Nice idea in theory, right? Sometimes it’s hard to find the perfect spot for the things we use daily. And if you’re like me, you may not have a ton of cabinet and closet space, making storage at times a challenge. But that’s okay; it doesn’t all have to be tucked away and out of sight. With the right decorative container – box, bowl, basket, or tray – everything can have a place. Hi there! I’m Kathryn, and here are a few creative storage ideas I’ve used in my home that might work for you as well. One When my daughter finished her ninth-grade year of high school, we decided to update her room. One of the colors we chose was terra cotta, orange with a touch of pink. Although we really liked the color, the choice made it hard to find matching accessories. I was always on the lookout for anything in the right shade that she could use. On one of my many trips to Target, I ran across a utensil caddy. It matched perfectly, but what could she possibly do with a knife, spoon, and fork holder? I had no idea, but I bought it anyway, hoping we could come up with something. When I carried it home and took it to her room, I was met by a pile of Seventeen magazines and stacks of books on the floor. Mystery solved! It became a “literary device.” The rolled magazines slid perfectly into the three sections designed for silverware, and the books fit just right in the front slot designed to hold napkins.

Two Want to add a fresh scent to your bathroom and free up some cabinet space? I usually buy our soap in bulk at Sam’s or Target to save a little money. But instead of storing it in our small linen closet and taking up a shelf, I open the boxes and put them in a glass bowl. It’s a fresh smelling idea (literally!), and it adds a pretty, decorative look to the room. If you decide to give this storage idea a try, make sure the bowl you chose has an opening large enough for your hand.

Three I bought a pretty soap dish that ended up being too big for the sink area where I intended to use it. No problem! I washed off the goo and repurposed it. The cute soap dish became the new locale to plop some of my jewelry at the end of the day. I’ve never really been one to use a traditional jewelry box. And because I tend to wear the same accessories over and over, I like my every day, go-to jewelry to be easy to grab when I’m in the midst of the morning rush. The soap dish now serves as a jewelry keep for what I frequently wear. I love the design of the dish, and it looks perfect in the tray on the bathroom counter.

Four Functional baskets are probably the easiest of storage ideas. I have them in just about every room of my house holding magazines, books, remote controls, even junk. One way I use them in my bedroom is to store seasonal items like gloves, toboggans, and scarves. I have my small winter items packed away in two large baskets that I found at Twice as Nice downtown. I slide them under the bench at the foot of my bed and slide them right back out when the weather cools off. T J Maxx and World Market are both great sources for attractive and large baskets to use for storage.

Hopefully, I’ve given you a storage idea or two you can use in your own home.

Tuscaloosa native Kathryn Wilkerson is a wife, mom of three, a teacher, and the author of Woodbank Lane – a blog that oﬀers up a variety of diﬀerent decorating ideas and projects, recipes, and inspiration for living. Follow Kathryn at woodbanklane.com and on Instagram @woodbanklane.

September Calendar of Events Camping World Kickoﬀ Game – Alabama vs. Louisville: Sept. 1, 7 p.m. Camping World Stadium, Orlando. The Tide and Cardinals square off in this premier college football matchup, which will be broadcast on ABC. For more information, visit rolltide.com or campingworldstadium.com. Bama Art House Films Presents “The Rider”: Sept. 4, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $8 general, $7 for students and seniors, $6 for Arts Council members. Box office opens at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit bamatheatre. org.

DCL Saves the Date

tourney is a 25-team, four-man golf scramble. Trophies will be awarded, and the event also includes door prizes, a raffle, and more. For more information, call Mark Hughes (205) 556-1000. 2018 Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: Sept. 20, 2-3:30 p.m. Citizens who have contributed to the betterment of the Tuscaloosa County community will be inducted. For more information, email carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com.

National Elephant Appreciation Day The 16th annual Canine Classic 5K road race to benefit the Humane Society of West Alabama will be held on Saturday, September 15, at Kentuck at CHOM: Sept. Park in Northport. The 5K road race, which begins at 8 a.m., is the HSWA’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Registration starts at 7:00 a.m. Humans Nucor Steel Tuscaloo22, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. only, please. The race course is a flat, fast certified course. The first 150 registrants will receive a t-shirt on the day of the race, and all entrants will sa Adopt-A-School Golf be entered in a drawing for door prizes. Walkers are welcomed. For more information, visit tuscaloosatrackclub.com or humanesocietyofwa.org. Children’s Hands-On Proceeds from the Canine Classic 5K go directly to the welfare of all the animals in the HSWA’s care, and to helping more in the Tuscaloosa Tournament: Sept. 6, Museum, downtown community. Ol’ Colony Golf ComTuscaloosa. Learn about plex, Tuscaloosa. This the world’s largest living information, visit bamatheatre.org. tournament is the annual fundraising event benefitland mammal, and what you can do to help consering the AAS program. Teams will play a morning vation efforts through games, crafts, and more. For Raising Hope Silent Auction: Sept. 13, 5:30-8:30 flight at 8 a.m. or an afternoon flight at 1 p.m. For more information, visit chomonline.org or call (205) p.m. Bryant Conference Center, Tuscaloosa. This more information, visit tuscaloosachamber.com. 349-4235. annual event benefits Catholic Social Services of West Alabama. The auction runs until 7 p.m.; dinner Kentuck Art Night in Downtown Northport: will be served beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets: $20 each, Nickelodeon Worldwide Day of Play at CHOM: Thursday, Sept. 6, 5- 8 p.m. This monthly celebraor five for $65. For more information, visit csstusca- Sept. 29, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Children’s Hands-On tion of art and artists is free to the public. Enjoy live loosa.org. Museum, downtown Tuscaloosa. Hop, skip, or jump music, pop-up shops from local vendors, demonstrayour way down to CHOM to help celebrate the tions by Kentuck studio artists, and more. For more Worldwide Day of Play. For more information, visit Annual Buy for RISE Charity Sale: Sept. 14 and information, visit kentuck.org/art-night. chomonline.org or call (205) 349-4235. 15, Rise Center, Tuscaloosa. Area merchants have donated high-end items to the University of AlaFirst Friday in Downtown Tuscaloosa: Sept. 7, 5 Tuscaloosa Farmer’s Market: Saturdays, 7 a.m.bama RISE School, and deep discounts are offered. p.m.- 8 p.m. This event is free to the public. Local Money raised will help RISE. For more information, noon.; Tuesdays 3-6 p.m. Tuscaloosa River Market, galleries, businesses and restaurants are open as a 1900 Jack Warner Blvd, Tuscaloosa. Shop for fresh call (205) 348-7931. way for the community to see what downtown Tusproduce, grass fed beef, baked goods, cheeses and caloosa offers. For more information, visit firstfrimore. Buy fresh, buy local. For more information, Shipwrecked Water Safety at CHOM: Sept. 15, daytuscaloosa.com. visit tuscaloosarivermarket.com or call (205) 2489 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum, 5295. downtown Tuscaloosa. Anchor down at CHOM Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents “Forever Plaid”: and learn about water safety with the Army Corps Sept. 7-16. Bean-Brown Theatre, Tuscaloosa. After Northport Farmer’s Market: Saturdays, 6 a.m. to of Engineers. Meet Buddy the Beaver, solve the four young singers are killed in a car crash, they noon, 4150 5th Street, Northport. For more informashipwrecked survivor riddle, compete in water posthumously take the stage for one final gig in this safety bingo, and more. For more information, visit tion, visit npfarmersmarket.com. hilariously nostalgic musical set in the 1950s. To chomonline.org or call (205) 349-4235. Events you want to see here? purchase tickets and see show times, visit theatretusc.com or call the Theatre Tuscaloosa Box Office Email us at: Calico Street Troupe Performance: Sept. 15 and at (205) 391-2277. editor@druidcitymedia.com 29. 10:30 a.m.-Noon, Northport Civic Center. This free, interactive, professional stage play for kids CHOM’s Football Kickoﬀ: Sept. 8, 9 a.m.-4:30 and their families features costumed actors, dancers, p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum, downtown special lighting, and music – all on a 36-foot stage. Tuscaloosa. Enjoy tailgate games, design your own Performances teach right choices and good characjersey, make a giant fan finger, and cheer on your ter. For more information, visit calicostreet.com. favorite team. For more information, visit chomonline.org or call (205) 349-4235. Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra Presents “Into the Beyond”: Sept. 17, 7 p.m. Moody Music Build5th Street Vintage Market: Sept. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., ing Concert Hall, University of Alabama campus. 4150 5th Street, Northport. The Vintage Market is Tickets are available at tsoonline.org or by phone at a great place to find unusual and unique treasures, (205) 752-5515. from vintage books, clothes, and jewelry to handmade items, vinyl records, and more. For more Bama Art House Films Presents “Disobedience”: information, visit 5thstreetvintagemarket.com. Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $8 general, $7 for students and seniors, $6 for Arts Council members. Chamber Business After Hours: Sept. 11, 5-7 p.m. Box office opens at 6:30 p.m. For more information, Smart Bank/Capstone Bank, Tuscaloosa. For more visit bamatheatre.org. information, visit tuscaloosachamber.com. Pars 4 Paws Golf Tournament: Sept. 20, 1 p.m. Bama Art House Films Presents “The Leisure (lunch at 11:30 a.m.), Ol’ Colony Golf Course, Seeker”: Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $8 general, Tuscaloosa. Proceeds from this inaugural event will $7 for students and seniors, $6 for Arts Council benefit the Humane Society of West Alabama. The members. Box office opens at 6:30 p.m. For more

Community Service Programs of West Alabama (CSP) Housing Resource Center is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of NeighborWorks® America through expansive planning in financial capability programming. You may not know that CSP is a member of the national NeighborWorks® network. Over the past 40 years, NeighborWorks® and its network have assisted close to 8 million people through affordable housing and counseling. What is Financial Capability?

Financial Capability programming p is all about helping equip individuals and families with the tools and resources needed to navigate financial life events. NeighborWorks® in its 2018 Consumer Finance Survey discovered more than one-third (36 percent) of families with household income below $75,000 do not have both a checking and savings account with a bank or credit union. The survey further mentions, 38 percent of all households with incomes below $75,000 have no money saved for an emergency; and of those households with savings, 43 percent said savings would last one month or less. Helping individuals and families establish and sustain an emergency savings account, budget for important purchases and plan for retirement are some components of financial capability programming. CSP promotes and supports an approach that combines financial education (to share basic skills and knowledge), financial counseling (to resolve specific issues and challenges in the short term) and financial coaching (to encourage behavior change and achieve positive and sustainable long-term outcomes). For more information on financial capability programming, please call (205) 469-0358.

More about NeighborWorks® America

NeighborWorks® America, formally the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corp., is a national, nonpartisan, nonprofit leader in affordable housing and community development. For 40 years, the organization has worked to create opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, both rented and owned; improve their lives; and strengthen their communities. This mission is accomplished through a network of nearly 250 nonprofit organizations in all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico.

Call 205-469-0358 for more information