Druid City Living December 2017 by Druid City Media

December 217 | Volume 5 | Issue 12 Tuscaloosa’s Premier Community Newspaper

Holiday Classic Returns

PAGE 19

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

About Us.................2 Opinion................4 Business..................9 Community.......11 Food.......................20 Calendar.............23

@DruidCityLiving

HOLIDAY WISHES Youngsters reveal what they love about the season.

SEE PAGE 12

CELEBRATIONS IN T-TOWN Tuscaloosa goes all out for the holidays, with stunning decorations popping up all over town.

SEE PAGE 16

Friend us on Facebook at Druid City Living for a chance to win free ice skating tickets from Holidays on the River!

2 ABOUT

December 2017

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 Will Vann Nathan Pearman Allison Adams

2017 Intern Faith Henley

Who doesn’t love December in West Alabama? With so many wonderful, festive events, the holidays are in full swing around here. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk to see the Tinsel Trail, head over to the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater to enjoy more Tinsel Trail trees and hit the ice skating rink. If you feel your inner Scrooge taking over, just get out and enjoy. You’ll be singing holiday carols in no time. If you love live performances, make plans to enjoy the annual performance of The Nutcracker, and check out The Actor’s Charitable Theater’s production of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe– the beloved Chronicles of Narnia story comes to life on the stage.

As always, a special thanks to our readers, writers, contributors, and advertisers. Everyone here at Druid City Living appreciates your efforts and support. If you have any story ideas you’d like to share, please email editor@ druidcityliving.com. We’d love to hear from you. And don’t forget to visit druidcityliving.com for all the latest daily news and happenings. Wishing you a great holiday season,

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

Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa held its first annual CEO Build on Oct. 31. More than 20 local business leaders and community volunteers converged on Juanita Drive to help build a home for the Teyunna Harris and her two young children. Sponsoring companies included Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Inc., Publix, Wells Fargo, Phifer Incorporated, Amason and Associates, McAbee Construction, BBVA Compass, MacLellan, McGiffert Civil Engineers, Brose, NUCOR Steel, PNC Bank, Premier Service Company, Jamison, Money, Farmer, LLC, Renasant Bank, Stillman College, Bank of Tuscaloosa, and the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce. The volunteers floored the house, put up siding, did all the exterior trim work, installed all interior window trim, and painted. Photo: Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa

4 OPINION

December 2017

The Mommy Chronicles: Discovering New Holiday Traditions, the “Must-Haves”

By Marlena Rice

For the Family

Do you have activities and traditions passed along by your parents that you now enjoy with your children when the holiday season rolls around? Or are you a believer in creating your own? Or maybe you are a mother for the first time this year and are looking to discover and incorporate new traditions for your new family. Newly married local mother Tia McCline is excited to begin new traditions this year with her husband and 19-month-old son. Her husband’s birthday, Dec. 23, prompted the start of a new holiday family tradition. “We’ll throw him a birthday party and then go to our church’s Christmas service, because that will also signify the day and place we got engaged,” she said of her husband’s birthday. “The next day, we will do family pictures, bake cookies, have hot cocoa, and watch Christmas movies in our PJs. And finally, on Christmas Day,we’ll have a big breakfast, read our favorite scripture about Christmas, and at some point, get to the gifts!” If you’re interested in starting your own holiday tradition, here are a few ideas:

1. Create a family holiday soundtrack. Allow each family member to include a few of their favorite holiday songs. The quirkier and more customized for your family the better. Play during holiday-themed activities, like baking and trimming the Christmas tree.

During the holiday season, the pressure is on moms. We’re focused on everything from finding and making arrangements for kiddos during the school holiday vacations to prepping and cooking large family dinners for the first time. Here are three things to remember –hopefully they’ll help calm your holiday nerves a bit:

2. Cook holiday dinner together. Get everyone involved! And who says you must have turkey and dressing? If you have a taco loving family, it may just be in the cards for your family to have special taco dinner on Christmas Eve every year.

1. Rest. Understand that Christmas is not all about what we can buy or how early we can wake up to buy it.

3. Have designated quiet moments.It’s important to be still and enjoy time together during the holiday break. Take away all electronics, light up that Christmas tree, and talk. Play games. Get creative without letting someone or something else dictate yourfamily time together.

Beaux William playing with friends Sam Barnett and Cayden Scott at Bowers Park in Tuscaloosa. Playdates will help your children burn much needed energy during their holiday break, and they can also be your saving grace. Photo: Marlena Rice

For You, Mama

4. Craft together. Make one special ornament or piece of holiday décor that’s family themed. If you’re a bunch of football fanatics, make a football wreath. Make a craft that can be added on to each year, or one that will be the first in a long line of others!

2. Schedule play dates. Your children will be out of school for the holiday season and with staying home comes messy houses and, getready for it ... boredom. Collect phone numbers of a few of your children’s friends before classes are out, or call a few of your girlfriends with children and get together. Go for a hike, or take the kids to the movies. They will get to burn off some steam, and so will you. 3. Be thankful. Have you seen those cute little signs for our homes that read “Bless this mess?” Enjoy every single second of yours.

Give Life To Your Story: Asking For Help with All of Life’s Challenges By Mike Green I was a good student in high school and college. Mostly A’s in high school and then A’s and B’s at UA, as I pursued a degree in mechanical engineering. School was definitely challenging. There were often times each semester I thought there was no way to finish the coursework and keep my sanity. The challenges of college were amplified by a flaw in my makeup that

WHEN FACED WITH DECISIONS, LARGE AND SMALL, ASK FOR HELP. I knew existed, but I had no idea how to overcome. Even in the most difficult of times, I wouldn’t ask for help. I was the student who rarely asked a question in class. Only on a few occasions did I ever seek out a professor for assistance, or even ask a classmate for support. Mine was a solitary approach to school. I have spent hours of self-analysis attempting to determine the root of this issue. (Yeah, I didn’t even ask for help with this need.) Was it ego? Maybe I thought I was smart enough to just know all the answers. On some occasions, I thought asking for help might be seen as weak. Was I too bashful? Or was I just lazy? None of the answers seem to be clear. As you can imagine, the unwillingness to share my needs was not limited to just school. What was seen

on clear display in my approach to education was also seen in almost every area of my life. To be a bit vulnerable, it led to a lot of lonely and painful moments. With that admission, I am going to share my main point. Ask for help. “In which areas of life?” you may be wondering. I suggest in every area. In your approach to parenting, ask for help. In dealing with difficult relationships, ask for help. In Mike Green serves as Executive Director of Tuscaloosa Youth For Christ. He and his wife, Laura, have two grown children and two adorconquering bad able grandkids. You can reach Mike at mike@tuscaloosayfc.com habits you just sions, large and small, ask for help. get. Well, now I am going to ask for can’t let go of, Ask for help. the help of my trusted editor and my ask for help. When faced with deciMaybe you are like me and are tired wife, so the final version of this article YOU ARE STILL IN CONTROL. of having all the right answers. How is something worth reading. And trust YOU ARE THE ONE WHO WILL freeing it may be to learn that othme – you will be glad I did. Give life CHOOSE TO ACCEPT THE ers’ insights may lift your load. And to your story. GUIDANCE FROM FRIENDS, remember this: You are still in control. You are the one who will choose to FAMILIES, COUNSELORS, AND accept the guidance from friends, famEVEN GOD. LIFE IS TOUGH. WE NEED ALL THE HELP WE CAN GET. ilies, counselors, and even God. Life is tough. We need all the help we can

OPINION 5 Lake Living: Get Busy Noticing and Listening Earnestly December 2017

and listening? What a wonderful world that will be. Blessings, and Merry Christmas, and whatever that earnest holiday is for you, embrace it, speak about it, share it with others who celebrate different things than you. It’s OK! We might just all learn that most of them are celebrated in some form of love. What is the harm in embracing that? Allison Adams, Realtor.

By Allison Adams Everywhere we go this holiday season, it seems everyone is “busy.” What does that really mean? There are many definitions, but “diligent, industrious, imply active or earnest effort to accomplish something, or a habitual attitude of such earnestness” is the one I would pick. A habit of earnestness: a sincere and intense conviction. These days, even during the holiday season, people are either shying away from earnest convic-

STOP THE PRESENT WRAPPING, AND START WRAPPING YOUR ARMS AROUND THOSE WHO JUST NEED YOU TO LOOK AT THEM.

The 12 Days of Christmas Giving, illustrated and written by Allison, can be read in its entirety for free or ordered at southernscribblings.com.

Allison Adams is a mom of four and a Realtor with Lake Homes Realty serving Lake Tuscaloosa. For comments, email aadams@lakehomes.com.

tion and skirting the fringes of what they believe, or they are flat-out laying it all out there in a rebellious attempt to be heard. We’re all just going about our days here in Alabama in the name of “busyness,” and I would venture to say that not much of that is done with “earnestness.” What is your “earnest conviction”? What do you feel strongly about, that others have pushed you into hiding in your “busyness”?

I watch as we are all busy shopping, wrapping, planning elaborate celebrations, maybe doing an angel thing here or there, and we throw our hands up, frustrated and stressed at long lines and lack of service. But ... Right now, there are still families busy digging through rubble to even prove that their homes existed. Puerto Rico, Texas, and Florida residents are still busy, trying to find a way to get back to business as usual. Busy is a dangerous word. It will consume you, and take years from

your lives with your kids. Suddenly, you will look up and the oldest is 24, and you have a 21-year-old embarking on being an adult. As you look through the photo albums, you’ll wonder what you were so dang busy about. What can you get busy about this month? Stop the presents wrapping, and start wrapping your arms around those who just need you to look at them. My children have told me this over and over. “Mom, Listen!” What if we just get busy noticing

Allison Adams

’TIS THE SEASON TO CELEBRATE. Good things happen when friends work as a team. Your friends and neighbors at the DCH Health System work together every day to make this a healthier community. And when we’re not on the job, we make west Alabama a better place to live by volunteering with civic organizations, charities and community events. We wish you and your family a safe and healthy holiday. But isn’t it good to know DCH is here if you need us? DCH. Caring. For Life.

6 OPINION

December 2017

The Land of Oz: The Unofficial, Non-Peer Reviewed, 2017 Christmas Survival Guide By Derek Osborn “Can I refill your eggnog for you? Get you something to eat? Drive you out to the middle of nowhere and leave you for dead?”–Clark W. Griswold If you are reading this, then most likely there is a reminder in your immediate vicinity that Christmas is coming. Soon. While it is widely considered to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” this phenomenon typically encompasses a number of stressful issues including, but not limited to: the threat of home invasion by distant relatives; the threat of home invasion by a jolly, heavy-set, bearded fellow; a Christmas card list; a gift list; and maybe even a wish list that includes the hottest toy of the season and an assortment pack of various slime concoctions. Nothing says, “Merry Christmas” like slime. Here’s an unofficial survival “don’t” list that you would probably be wise to skip over entirely ... Don’t sweat the gift-giving. We all feel somewhat obligated to provide gifts to family and close friends, but is it because we know they are getting us something? A new survey conducted by the Harris Poll found that 69 percent of Americans would skip exchanging gifts if their friends and family agreed to it.

NOTHING SAYS, “MERRY CHRISTMAS” LIKE SLIME Most said they would spend more quality time with that group if they didn’t have to worry about buying gifts. Hey ...it’s worth

a few phone calls. Gifts don’t have to be expensive. That same survey found most of the financial anxiety during the holidays is due to people feeling pressured to spend more money on gifts than they can afford. Remember, it’s the thought that counts, not the price tag. Don’t feel obligated to purchase eggnog for the family gathering. Christmas is still Christmas without it. Plus, it’s gross. I have the utmost respect for anyone who can stomach it. You don’t have to out-do yourself. One of the things my family has tended to do over the years is to try and make Christmas bigger than it was last year when it comes to gifts. More stuff (and spending more money) doesn’t necessarily make it bigger. It likely just means that more things will be shoved in a closet and forgotten. On that note, don’t waste your time waiting in line for whatever the hottest toy of the season is (unless you oddly enjoy that kind of thing). Last year, it was the dreaded Hatchimals, of which 90 percent of kids essentially discarded into the stuffed animal confinement area and forgot about shortly after they hatched. Lastly, don’t discuss politics unless you are 100 percent certain all your relatives are on the same page. And even then, don’t do it. Ultimately, remember the reason for the season, and find some time to relax and enjoy your kids, your friends, and your family. Don’t get caught up in the madness. Be waiting on the jolly fat man with a big smile on your face. With all the road construction scheduled to start

The Land of Oz is a monthly editorial piece of masterful opinionated writing (insert joke here) regarding life and times in the big town of Tuscaloosa coupled with the musings of a guy nicknamed “Oz.”

in Tuscaloosa soon, who knows if he will even be able to get here next Christmas. And from our family to yours, Merry Christmas. 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 wife Lynn, and their daughters, Savannah and Anica.

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BUSINESS 9

December 2017

Now Open and Opening Soon 1 1 BloGo Blow Dry Bar & Salon is expected to open in Tuscaloosa in February 2018. Salon services will include signature blowouts, up do’s, and special treatments. BloGo will be located at 2370 Jack Warner Parkway Suite A 106. (205) 887-3832; Blogohair.com 2 Bloom Flower Truck is out and about in

Tuscaloosa. The mobile flower truck offers fresh flowers and arrangements. (205) 454-8595; @bloomflowertruck 3 TTuscaloosa’s uscaloosa’s The Nook Hair Salon and Studio (2820 2820 7th Street) celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Nov. 7. (205) 764-9407; @ thenooktusc 4 Construction is underway for Tuscaloosa’s first Whataburger restaurant. The Texas-based restaurant chain expects to open its new location in the spring of 2018 at Skyland Blvd. and Highway 69 South. Whataburger.com

Bobby Bragg, the Vice Chair for Economic Development for the West Alabama Chamber of Comerce, introduces Chamber in Session panelists (L to R) Jo Bonner (Vice Chancellor for Economic Development, University of Alabama), Tom Spencer (Senior Research Associate, Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama), and Kathy Deck (Director of Community and Economic Research Partnerships for the University of Alabama Culverhouse College of Commerce).

News and Happenings 1 TTuscaloosa-based uscaloosa-based Capstone Bancshares, the parent company of Capstone Bank, and SmartFinancial, the parent company of SmartBank, have successfully merged. Capstone Bank’s former President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert Kuhn, will become SmartBank’s Regional President of the bank’s Alabama and Robert Kuhn Florida Markets. The Capstone Bank Capstone Bank branch oﬃces will adopt the SmartBank brand in the first quarter of 2018. 2 The 2017 Chamber in Session: State of the

Economy was held on Nov. 1 at Hotel Capstone in Tuscaloosa. It kicked off with elected oﬃcials and community leaders signing an economic development partnership that will help direct economic and workforce development efforts in the future. Signed by Mayor Donna Aaron of Northport, Mayor Walt Maddox of Tuscaloosa, Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Hardy McCollum, University of Alabama President Stuart Bell and others, the agreement recognizes a formal partnership to promote business growth, job creation and cultivation of a strong economy.

volunteer hours as a lay chaplain with the system, and has helped train an additional 31 volunteer chaplains to provide comfort and support to patients and their families. 4 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop closed its doors in late-October, less than one year after the restaurant opened at 2321 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa 5 Two Men and a Truck are holding a “Movers for Mutts” fundraiser benefiting the Humane Society of West Alabama. Donations can be dropped off in the lobby of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. Items needed include topical flea treatments, food, pet grooming supplies, and more for both dogs and cats.

Anniversaries 1 Chicken Salad Chick in Northport celebrated its five-year anniversary on Nov. 6 with several giveaways at the restaurant – including free chicken salad for a year. 2 VisualEyes eye care oﬃce and optical

boutique of Tuscaloosa marked its one-year anniversary in December. Located at the Village at Northbank on Rice Mine Road (1490 Northbank Parkway, Suite 120), VisualEyes offers the highest caliber eye care.

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

3 Bill McDonald McDonald, a volunteer with DCH Health System System, received the Alabama Hospital Association’s Outstanding Auxilian Award at the statewide volunteer conference in Eufaula in October 2017. McDonald has invested more than 1,500

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AT ETIQUETTE MANOR ALABAMA, GOOD MANNERS BRING SOCIAL CONFIDENCE Dating difficulties? Sloppy customer service employees? Children with the manual dexterity to master the intricacies of their video games, but only eat with their fingers? These are all etiquette issues. Robin Wells just opened a formal training studio teaching the art of“real life” social skills and corporate etiquette at Etiquette Manor Alabama in downtown Tuscaloosa. Wells, trained at by both the prestigious American School of Protocol in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Society of Certified Etiquette Trainers, has been featured in New York Times, Miami Herald, HGTV and Fox News. “My premise”, says Wells, “is that good manners and social skills make this a better world in which to live. They enhance communication and encourage kind-

ness and respect among people. You, your young adult, or loved one will forever benefit from the power and grace that good manners bestow.”

sion of a person’s awareness of others and how we behave says a lot about how we regard others.” Etiquette Manor Alabama is also a corporate and business

able as either private or group classes for companies, children, young adults and adults. For information regarding scheduling a private session or group class, contact Mrs. Robin Wells at etiquettemanor@ gmail.com or call the training center at 305-469-7822. www. EtiquetteManorAlabama.com

Right: Robin Wells, Certified Etiquette Trainer Left: There are opportunities to learn just from the environment at Etiquette Manor, as well as the small classes.

“A big difference between the kind of training I am offering”, says Wells “is that my focus, especially for young adults, is the impact that the use of good manners has on other people. I worry less about the rote application of the ‘rules’, although our students will learn the proper ways to conduct themselves, but I care much more about the fundamentals behind etiquette. By that I mean that etiquette is really an expres-

Saturday December 9 (10-4 PM) Santa Mouse

Make Santa Mouse ornaments! Storytime readings of Santa Mouse! Activities included in paid admission

Saturday December 16 (10-4 PM) Holiday Hoopla

Make ornaments and gifts, then wrap them up for giving! Activities included in paid admission

Saturday December 23 (10-4 PM) Christmas Cow Party with Moosie

Songs, carols, Christmas stories and holiday tales with Riverboat John! Make a Santa Cow ornament! Cookies & milk snacks! Activities included in paid admission

Saturday December 30 (10-4 PM) New Year’s For Kids! DJ Chuckie!

“Champagne” Toasts! Party Horns! Hats!Tiaras! Balloon Drop promptly at 11am. Stay and play in exhibits til closing. Activities included in paid admission

training tool for organizations to assist their staff (and themselves) in the fine art of presentation. Wells has trained everyone from dental office staff to restaurant servers to executives. “My experience as a marketing executive for over 20 years showed me that there was also a need for this type of training in the business world as well,” explained Wells. The programs offered by Etiquette Manor Alabama are avail-

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COMMUNITY 11

December 2017

Season’s Readings: Take Time to Read Classic Holiday Stories to Your Kids By Caroline Ellis A chilly breeze, a warm fire, the chance of snow (or cold rain if you live in Alabama), loved ones all around, and a good book make for a wonderful winter night. It is the time of year where the list of to-dos can be pushed aside, in favor of spending time with family and reading those well-known stories that have shaped many childhood memories year after year. Not only is it the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ to recite these stories, reading to young children has many benefits. Research backs this up. According to the National Education Association, 26 percent of kids who were read to 3-4 times weekly recognize the letters of the alphabet. Among kids read to less frequently, that number drops to 14 percent. Gwen Pascal, a Children’s Librarian at the Tuscaloosa Public Library is passionate about reading to children and encouraging them to read. Over the years, she has compiled a list of some of her favorite holiday stories. “Olive, the Other Reindeer is one of my favorites,” said Pascal. “He’s a dog who’s wrapping gifts, listening to Christmas music, and trimming the tree, and he hears the line ‘all of the other reindeer,’ and thinks, ‘oh, I’m a reindeer.’” Pascal enjoys reading to children that come to weekly story times at the library every Wednesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. Anyone who walks into Pascal’s office can see the impact she has on the children who visit the library, as her desk is decorated with cards from children she

TPL Children’s Librarian Gwen Pascal reads to children each week at the Main library branch. Photo: Vince Bellofatto

“I’VE BEEN DOING THIS FOR 16 YEARS. I HAVE KIDS THAT CAME IN WHEN THEY’RE YOUNG, AND NOW THEY’RE GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL AND GOING OFF TO COLLEGE.”

has read to ever since infancy. “I’ve been doing this for 16 years. I have kids that came in when they’re young, and now they’re graduating high school and going off to college,” she said. Services offered at the Tuscaloosa Public Library give local children many

opportunities to read classic holiday stories. A children’s book table highlights a variety of seasonal books to choose from at Main library. If you want to check out some Christmas and holiday books, head to the library quickly – they are popular choices this time of year.

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Magic of the Holidays By Alicia Jenne’

Conversations with Little Ones

Holidays are all about family and friends and spending time with those you love. No matter what traditions you celebrate, or which religion you call your own, everyone has that certain “something” that makes their holiday special. Rock Quarry Elementary has a new “little something” of our own. We opened our very first OSR (Office of School Readiness) First Class PreK in

August of this year. Affectionally known as the PreKPals, these 4 and 5-yearolds were quick to tell us all about their favorite and most anticipated parts of the upcoming holidays. Take the advice of the PreKPals. They may have only had four holiday seasons under their belts, but they know what’s what. Be good. Get your name on the big list. Decorate. Always hope for snow. Chocolate

chip cookies and milk are the best. Get some comfy slippers. Be ready to play with toys...and don’t get your holidays out of order! Enjoy this time with your family and friends Tuscaloosa. May you always view this season through the eyes of a child, because, “though I’ve grown old, the bell still rings for me, as it does for all who truly believe!”(Polar Express) Alicia Jenne’ is a veter-

an teacher of little people. She is the PreKPals Lead Teacher at Rock Quarry Elementary.

“SANTA HAS REINDEER AND HE HAS A SLEIGH! HE HAS A BIG LIST OF KIDS AND YOU HAVE TO BE GOOD! IF YOU ARE NOT GOOD, THEN YOU WON’T GET A PRESENT!” -RORY, 5 YEARS OLD

“I LIKE TO GO SEE SANTA! I ALWAYS WANT TO SEE IF IT IS SNOWING WHEN I SEE HIM!” -GROVE, 4 YEARS OLD

ABBY: “SANTA BRINGS ME AND MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS PRESENTS AND...I GOT NEW SLIPPERS! POPPY ONES!” SAM: “YEAH! I LOVE TOYS AND I LOVE TOY CARS THE MOST AND I HAVE SNOWMAN SLIPPERS! WAIT!? IS IT CHRISTMAS ALREADY WE DIDN’T HAVE TURKEY YET!” MRS. JENNE’: “NO, IT’S NOT CHRISTMAS YET. WE ARE JUST TALKING ABOUT SANTA AND THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. THANKSGIVING IS IN A FEW WEEKS.” SAM: “WELL- THAT’S GOOD. I LIKE TURKEY, BUT I LIKE SANTA BETTER!” -ABBY AND SAM (TWINS), 4 YEARS OLD

“YOU KNOW, THE ELVES MAKE ALL OF THE TOYS FOR SANTA. THEY WRAP THEM AND GIVE THEM TO SANTA FOR HIS SLEIGH!” -PEYTON, 4 YEARS OLD

“I LIKE TO PLAY WITH ALL OF MY TOYS. I GO AND GET THEM AT THE STORE.” -FIEN, 4 YEARS OLD

“WE GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS WITH ALL OF OUR DECORATIONS LIKE REINDEER AND MOOSE! I HAVE A SANTA CLAUS DECORATION THAT SITS IN A CHAIR! BUT MY FAVORITE THING OF ALL IS TOYS!” -ADDISON, 4 YEARS OLD

“DID YOU KNOW THAT WHEN YOU ARE GOOD, SANTA COMES? HE HAS LOTS OF TOYS! LIKE A WHOLE, WHOLE BUNCH OF THEM!” -OLIVER, 4 YEARS OLD

“WELL...SANTA GIVES ME PRESENTS AND I GIVE HIM COOKIES AND MILK. CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES ARE HIS FAVORITE! HE LOVES THEM!” -MAX, 5 YEARS OLD

Photo courtesy of Kathryn Maness

Tales of Tuscaloosa Tales of Tuscaloosa: I Cure Fits! (December 14, 1887) By Jim Ezell

an effective treatment for malaria. If 19th century Tuscaloosans His tonic became wildly successful could be transported through and made him a millionaire. time to a modern drug store, Regulation of patent medicines they might be disoriented. But began in 1906, with the Pure Food after scanning the shelves of and Drug Act that required the listing their new environment, some of ingredients on the label. In 1915, familiar names would apmany patent medicines were withpear—Vicks VapoRub, Milk drawn from sale due to the Harrison of Magnesia, Geritol, Lydia Narcotics Act, which taxed and tightE. Pinkham’s Vegetable Comly regulated the sale of opiates and pound, and others. All are cocaine. The West Alabama Breeze survivors from the flamboyant, noted in March 1915 that as the law and unregulated, age of patent took effect, many local addicts were medicines. hospitalized or in the “asylum.” Patent medicines were highly The production of most patent promoted concoctions that medicines gradually ended by seldom delivered their promised the 1930s, as fewer and fewer cures. The term “patent” probproducts were available without ably derives from the issuance a physician’s prescription, but of “royal patents,” which were some survived by modifying their endorsements of medical elixirs ingredients to comply with federal in 17th century Europe. They regulations. Others, such as Bayer were not “patented” by the Aspirin, Grove’s Chill Tonic and modern definition, since their Vicks VapoRub, proved to have ingredients would have to be remedicinal benefits, pain or sympvealed in the patenting process. tom relief, and low potential for Most of these concoctions harm or abuse. did not work and were poThe age of patent medicines tentially harmful. Many were is gone. However, the marketing herbal mixtures blended with methods pioneered by their manulaudanum, a solution of alcofacturers survive today to promote hol and whole opium (which toothpaste, deodorants, shampoos, included morphine, codeine, nutritional supplements, and a and other opiates). Some other myriad of other products. patent medicines contained cocaine. Aside from pain relief About the Author and cough suppression, most Local author and historian Jim of these “drugs” were of little Ezell is writing a collection of hismedicinal value. torical stories about the Druid City Use of inexpensive ingrediand surrounding areas, in hopes of ents created high profit margins publishing a book ahead of Tusand allowed for widespread caloosa’s bicentennial celebration regional and national adverin 2019. What began as genealogy tising. Newspapers in the 19th search in 1992 quickly turned into and early 20th century carried a much larger project. As Ezell numerous advertisements for searched through over a century products claiming cures for of newspapers at the University of almost every ailment, from skin rashes to cancer. Some I Cure Fits: Root’s ingredients were magnesium and sodium bromide which acted as anticonvulsants, ad from The Tuscaloosa Times, Alabama’s Hoole Special Colleclocally advertised products December 14, 1887. Huckleberry Cordial: An ad from an 1886 issue of the Tuskaloosa Gazette. This “cordial” contained about one tions Library, he became fascigrain of opium per fluid ounce and 10 percent alcohol. Husbands: Husband’s Calcined Magnesia was a laxative and antacid, and a nated by other articles from the included Dr. Spencer’s forerunner of Milk of Magnesia. This bottle was found in Tuscaloosa. Cardui: Cardui contained blessed thistle (Carduus benedictus) Druid City. Vegetable Anti-Bilious in a 20 percent alcohol solution. Ad from the West Alabama Breeze, 1896. Groves Chill Tonic: Grove’s Chill Tonic was promoted as an Pills (1843), Simon’s Liver easier way to administer quinine to children. Ad from The Tuskaloosa Gazette, 1890. Syrup of Figs: Sold as a quick acting laxative, this “syrup” contained fig extract in a 4 percent alcohol solution. Ad from The Tuskaloosa Gazette, 1893. Bitters: These “Bitters” contained Regulator (1874), Scott’s 19.5 percent alcohol and claimed cures for female “complaints.” Ad from The Tuskaloosa Gazette, 1890. Browns Bitters: Promoted as Emulsion (1887), Mexican curing malaria, indigestion, female “diseases,” and other maladies, Brown’s contained 13.5 percent alcohol. Ad from The Tuskaloosa Mustang Liniment for Man Gazette, 1886. Elys Cream Balm: Ely’s Cream Balm was a forerunner of Vick’s VapoRub. Ad from The Tuskaloosa Gazette, 1889. Catarrh and Beast (1887), and Prickly was an excessive nasal discharge Ash Bitters (1900). consumption. In 1896, McElree claimed a pig’s body with the motto “MAKES Other locally advertised products “THE GREAT SPIRIT PLANTED CHILDREN AS FAT AS PIGS.” Tenalluded to an Indian origin, since Native IT” for the main ingredient in Wine of nessee druggist E.W. Grove developed a Americans were thought by many in Cardui, a medicine intended to cure way to temper the bitter taste of quinine the 19th century to be more attuned to “female diseases.” with a mixture of sweet syrup and lemnature. An 1843 ad touted The Indian Perhaps the most bizarre of all patent on flavoring, making it easier to adminPanacea, a cure for scrofula, cancer, medicine advertising was for Grove’s ister to children. It was one of the few syphilis, scurvy, piles, and other aﬄicChill Tonic. It featured a grotesque patent medicines that did not contain tions. In 1886, Taylor’s Cherokee Rem- chimera of a child’s head attached to alcohol or opiates plus it actually was edy was pushed for coughs, croup, and

COMMUNITY 15

December 2017

Experience the Magic of “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” at the Bama Theatre By Colton Crowe

Ever heard of a wardrobe with a majestic lion, an evil witch, and even a couple of talking beavers inside? Well, come journey through the magical land of Narnia where you will meet these characters and more as the Actor͛ s Charitable Theatre (ACT) brings The Lion,

“AS ARTISTS, IT’S OUR JOB TO TELL STORIES BY TAKING THEM FROM THE STORYBOOK PAGE AND BRINGING THEM TO LIFE ON THE STAGE.” The Witch and The Wardrobe to the Bama Theatre in downtown Tuscaloosa, Dec. 15-18. Based on the first book in C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia series, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe tells the story of four children who discover an enchanted wardrobe with a magical land inside known as Narnia. There, they

Right: Brady Taylor, who plays the White Witch’s dwarf, Grumpskin, in The ACT’s upcoming production of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, rehearses a battle scene with Mrs. Beaver (Bibi Steinke). Left: Caleb Burdette (Edmund Pevensie) and Mary Kathryn Matthews (the White Witch) size each other up before rehearsing their intricate stage combat.

cold, and lifeless’ just like herself,” Mathews said. “When Narnia starts to change with the arrival of the kids, it forces her to change, and she can’t have that.” Mathews also noted that she read an article about the White Witch that refers to the character as a “Devil in Disguise” and explains that she brings out evil desires in others.

discover the White Witch, who has deprived the land’s inhabitants of Christmas, and has made it a daunting winter for the past 100 years. The four children meet a faun, two beavers, and a lion along the way, as they help defeat the evil witch and ultimately become the new kings and queens of all of Narnia.

The White Witch is played by Mary Kathryn Mathews, a veteran of many ACT productions, who has also served in many other positions with the ACT, such as director and musical director. “My character’s motive is to keep Narnia ‘pale,

“When you think of evil, you generally associate it with dark or black, but that isn’t the case here,”Mathews added. Benji Stockton, director and choreographer of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, said the show will be filled with magic, special effects, sword fighting, and, most of all, heart. “As artists, it’s our job to tell stories by taking them from the storybook page and bringing them to life on the stage,” Stockton said. According to Stockton, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is an experience people do not want to miss. “You will be taken on a fantastical journey through the eyes of the Pevensie children as they encounter the evil White Witch, Aslan the Great, and many other mythical creatures,” he added.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Bama Theatre

Friday, December 15, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 16, 2:00 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 17, 2:00 and 7:30 p.m.* Monday, December 18, 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices: Adult $21, Senior/Student $19, Kids $13 To order tickets: TheACT.info or (205)393-2800 *Join The ACT for a pre-show discussion with Dr. Scott Reynolds, lead pastor of North River Church, who will discuss the works and writings of C.S. Lewis. Sunday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m. Included with admission to the Sunday 7:30 p.m. performance

Hometown Holidays in Tuscaloosa by Faith Henley

2017 Christmas Afloat: Lighted Holiday Boat Parade Returns If you’ve ever wanted to view a Christmas parade on the water, now’s your chance. On Saturday, Dec. 9, the community can enjoy the annual Christmas Afloat parade. The recreational boating club Pirates of the Warrior will host its annual lighted Christmas parade. The Christmas Afloat event begins at 5:45 p.m. near the McFarland Boulevard bridge. Boats will travel down the Black Warrior River, ending near the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. In years past, the event featured a fireworks show funded by community donations. This year, Pirates of the Warrior is

Tuscaloosa’s Christmas Afloat returns to the water on Saturday, Dec. 9. The annual holiday event is viewable from both shores of the Black Warrior River. Photo: Ken DeWitt

again taking donations, via a GoFundMe page. Pirates of the Warrior / Bama Navy: Boat Alabama is an organization of citizens who promote safe boating and recreation along the Black Warrior River. Christmas Afloat began as a yearly tradition in 1990, and was brought back in 2015. Christmas Afloat is not only family-friendly, but also free for the entire community to enjoy. To donate to the fireworks fund for Christmas Afloat, visit gofundme.com/2017fireworks-for-christmasafloat.

Holidays on the River Returns to Tuscaloosa One of Tuscaloosa’s most popular holiday attractions is now open. Holidays on the River has returned for its sixth year, offering area residents the chance to experience ice skating in Alabama, along with many other festive events. The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater has once again been transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with at 60’ x 100’ outdoor ice rink. Holidays on the River held its grand opening on Nov. 20, and the festivities will continue through Jan. 15. Michelle Smart, the community engagement manager for the City of Tuscaloosa, says this premier event is a great way for everyone to get out have fun. “It’s a good way to enjoy be-

night means families can return again and again, according to Smart. “Make sure you’re watching the online calendar, so you won’t miss out on the fun activities this year,” said Smart, who teased themes such as “Tacky Christmas” and a glowin-the-dark night. Admission to Holidays on the River at the Tuscaloosa

ing outside, and the weather, without breaking the bank,” said Smart. “Whether you are five or 15, there is something for everyone to enjoy.” In addition to ice skating, Holidays on the River also offers movie nights and theme nights, visits from Santa Claus, and carriage rides. Different events each

Amphitheater is free, but passes are required for skate rental and access to the ice rink. This year, passes are $15. On Tuesdays, family night features discounted skate passes for $12, along with a free drink from the sponsor, Coca-Cola. Other deals, including season passes, birthday packages, and field trip rates, are also available. To buy tickets, to find the required waiver, and to view the full schedule of events, visit holidaysontheriver.com.

Tuscaloosa Decks the Halls with Festive Tinsel Trail Christmas Trees Tuscaloosa goes all out for the holidays, with stunning decorations popping up all over town. None, however, compare to the annual Tinsel Trail – a stunning, magical sight along the city’s Riverwalk and the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. This year’s Tinsel Trail features 160 live Christmas trees. Each tree is sponsored by a local business, organization, or individual. From now until Jan. 14, the community can take a festive walk along the Riverwalk, beginning at the Tuscaloosa River Market, and

continuing to the Amphitheater – where Holidays on the River is in full swing.

Several special events are planned for the Tinsel Trail this season, including Sunday with Santa on Dec. 17. The event, from 3-6 p.m., includes train rides along the Trail and a story time for the kids. Additionally,

Proceeds from The Tinsel Trail go to Tuscaloosa’s One Place, a family resource center dedicated to serving 8,500 people every year through after school programs, healthy relationship education, career development and GED classes, teen intervention programs, and more. To learn more about Tuscaloosa’s One Place, Left: The annual Tinsel Trail features festive Christmas trees decked out for the holiday. Proceeds from the event help fund Tuscaloosa’s One Place programs. Photo: DCL Staff Right: Visiand to see tors stroll along Tuscaloosa’s Riverwalk, enjoying the Tinsel Trail. Photo: Tinsel Trail a full list This year, Tinsel Trail added children can have professionally of this year’s Tinsel Trail sponsors, visit ttowntinsel.com. Candy Cane Lane, a large-scale taken photos with Santa Claus. display of 50 4-foot tall candy Tickets for children are $5; canes. adults are free.

“Peace on Earth”: West Alabama Christmas Parade Kicks off the Holiday Season the parade. The Grand Marshals “The historical listing of er, parade chairperson. A staple in many families’ are chosen based on accomplish- Grand Marshals is a testament This year’s Grand Marshals holiday traditions, the West Alabama Christmas Parade ments and achievements that to the outstanding leadership are Virgie Greene, the owner have led to a positive impact or and volunteerism found in our and operator of Creative Child will be held on Dec. 4 at 6:30 contribution to our community. community,” said Becky Book- Development Learning Center; p.m. Hosted by the Tuscaloosa Rev. Thomas Linton, curCounty Park and rent pastor of The Church of Recreation Authority (PARA), this will The Lord Jesus Christ and owner of Linton’s Barber be the 42nd annual Shop; and Shelley Jones parade. and Dee Ward, co-founders With festive floats of the Tuscaloosa Children’s decorated to the Theatre. “Peace on Earth” The parade route begins theme, marching in downtown Tuscaloosa bands playing holiday classics, and on Greensboro Avenue. It will then make its way even Santa Claus down University Boulevard, himself, the parade ending at the 19th Avenuewill entertain evintersection. eryone in the famAdditionally, there will ily –especially the be a tree lighting ceremony children. at the Tuscaloosa County Each year, PARA honors individuals Courthouse prior to the paSanta will be on hand for the 42nd Annual West Alabama Christmas Parade, set for Dec. 4. Photo: Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation from the communi- Authority rade. Spectators can enjoy this at 5:15 p.m. while waitty by naming them Grand Marshals of ing for the parade to begin.

$15 SKATE PASSES PASSES VALID FOR THE ENTIRE DAY & INCLUDES SKATE RENTAL

Birthday Party and Corporate Party Packages Available Starting at $150 Email icerinkinfo@tuscaloosa.com for more info.

SANTA VISITS

CARRIAGE RIDES

MOVIE NIGHTS

HOLIDAYSONTHERIVER.COM

COMMUNITY 19

December 2017

The Nutcracker: The Beloved Holiday Classic is Set for Dec. 7-10 By Faith Henley

For over 30 years, the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers have enchanted audiences with their annual performance of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Undoubtedly, this year’s dancers, under the direction of Alden Phillips, a Tuscaloosa native and alumna of the performance group, will continue that tradition. “From a grand party scene, dolls coming to life, a suspenseful battle between soldiers and rats, to beautiful snowflakes dancing and traveling through the land of the sweets, there is something in The Nutcracker for the whole family to appreciate,” Phillips said. “With all of the hustle and bustle of this holiday season, this allows two hours for people to forget about all of the craziness, put their phones away, and enjoy a fun performance.” The show will run at the Bama Theatre Dec. 7-10. On Thursday and Friday, there will be evening performances at 7 p.m. Saturday’s matinee will begin at 10 a.m., and Sunday’s show will begin at 2 p.m. “TCD loves the tradition of performing The Nutcracker each year, while keeping things fresh with exciting updates to our choreography,” said Mary Lane Falkner, president of the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers. “For our audience members who return every year, it’s always exciting to see what we’ve done differently.” Since 1971, the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers have aimed to stimulate, promote, and develop interest

in dance through performance, education, master classes and outreach. “I can’t think of a better way to highlight the community aspect of TCD than by bringing back one of our own dancers to lead the next generation of performers,” Falkner said. “It is so inspiring for our young dancers to see Alden, who was a little Raggedy Andy doll in her first TCD Nutcracker, come back to us with the experience and knowledge to direct the entire show!” Tickets for the show are $21 for adults, $17 for seniors over the age of 60, and $12 for students and children. Additionally, patrons can enjoy “Breakfast with the Nutcracker” at the Bama Theatre on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 8:45 a.m. (before the 10 a.m. perfor-

mance). Tickets to enjoy breakfast are $7, and available at the box office. For more information, visit tuscaloosadancers.com. To buy tickets to a performance, visit tututix.com or call 205-752-4222.

Top: Liza Grace Cole (Clara) rehearses with her fellow castmates for the 2017 production of TCD’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Jamey Duffy Bottom: TCD’s annual performance of The Nutcracker features a talented cast, including Liza Grace Cole as Clara and Kennedy Duffy as Clara’s mischievous little brother, Fritz. Photo: Michael Moore Photography

Tuskaloosa Wrestling Coalition Helps Area Youth Learn and Grow in the Sport By Laurie Mundy Perrigin

your child, and pay the monthly dues, then all coaches are available to teach your child or children to wrestle.” Kronable says it’s important that the kids in the program are given as much one-on-one attention as possible, to help them learn and grow in the sport. He

of having the right positive influence from being a good role model/mentor,” Robert Kronable hopes to grow said Kronable. “Wrestling teaches kids the sport of wrestling in Tuscaloosa. to respect each other and themselves. Kronable is one of the organizers of the Our purpose is to help them achieve sucTuskaloosa Wrestling Coalition. He is a cess by improving their confidence and former wrestler and the father of a young self-esteem, and setting and completing wrestler. And now local goals with discipline and hard youngsters, ages 5 to 14, are work, which impacts other learning the fundamentals of areas of their growing lives.” the sport. Many young wrestlers in the He says he hopes the Fall area aren’t exposed to the sport Youth Wrestling Program until they reach high school will help kids learn and –something Kronable hopes develop even more competto change. He’s also hoping to itively. see more area high schools and “To help our program middle schools develop their grow and be successful, own wrestling programs. our biggest challenge, we “The biggest objectives of are trying to reach 20,000 growing our youth wrestling kids by asking many county program is to develop the and city elementary/middle youngsters by providing the schools to send a flyer home proper wrestling foundations with their students to inform and techniques to compete with the parents about our youth the Birmingham and North Alaprogram, and the opportunity bama youth wrestling programs. for their kids to learn wresWe also hope to create a feeder tling,” Kronable said. “There system for the high schools has been a huge interest from once they enroll and compete parents.” Left: Robert Kronable with some of his young wrestlers (L to R) Garrett Ferguson, Reece Glasgow, and his son, Liam Kronable. Right: The four-month fall Young area wrestlers learn the fundamentals of the sport and compete. For more information on the Tuskaloosa Wrestling Coalition, visit in their respective high school level,” he said. program offers practices four them on Facebook. Photos: Robert Kronable The Tuskaloosa Wrestling days each week from 5:45 to “TWC has recruited five experienced believes life lessons begin on the mat. Coalition’s fall season began on Nov. 1, 7:75 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and wrestling coaches to our team, totaling “Because our program is structured, and those who wish to sign up for the Friday, and from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on 10, to help provide more personalized and half of the coaches are fathers, remaining three months can do so. The Saturday. Recently, the TWC teamed up cost of the program is $50 per month. attention to our kids to increase their our coaching philosophy is striving to with the Tuscaloosa County Park and technical wrestling aptitude,” added conduct ourselves to a higher standard, Recreation Authority. Now, practices Kronable. “Our belief is, you register because we understand the importance and competitions are held at PARA’s McDonald Hughes Community Center. “McDonald Hughes Facility Manager Brandon McAway sees the value and importance to support our program to help us in achieving the growth of the club, which will allow TWC to get the right positive attention,” Kronable said.

20 FOOD

December 2017

Holiday Fun: Shrimp and Grits and Creamy Cherry Triﬂe

December Recipes By Amy Poore Happy Holidays! Like everyone, we’re busy here in the Poore home, getting ready for Christmas. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have time to sit down and enjoy a great meal. This shrimp and grits recipe is fantastic, if I do say so myself. I used my delicious Sumter County Shrimp for this, and it’s sure to please. Also, for those with a sweet

SHRIMP AND GRITS 1 cup old fashioned grits 3 cups water 2 teaspoons salt 2 cups half and half 2 pounds uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper Juice of one lemon 1-pound andouille sausage, cut into slices 5 strips of bacon 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped 1 teaspoon minced garlic (jar kind works well) 4 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup flour 1 cup chicken broth 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup shredded cheese Bring water, grits, and salt to boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, stir in half and half, reduce heat and simmer until grits have thickened (around 15-20 mins). Remove

from heat, cover with lid, and set aside. Pat shrimp dry, place in a medium bowl, season with cayenne pepper, and then toss with lemon juice. In a large skillet, cook sausage until evenly browned. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove, let cool, and crumble. Cook the peppers, onion, and garlic in the pan with the bacon drippings until tender. While vegetables are cooking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, slowing mix in flour to make a smooth paste. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring constantly until it has browned slightly (8-10 mins). Be careful to not let it burn. In the large skillet with the vegetables, add in the shrimp, sausage, butter/flour mixture, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cooking and stirring until the shrimp is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Cover and remove from heat. Stir cheese into the grits until melted. Serve shrimp mixture over grits in a bowl or on a plate.

tooth, this creamy cherry trifle is a gorgeous option for any holiday table. You can make them individually, too! Have a great holiday season, and as always, 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.

CREAMY CHERRY TRIFLE 1 1/3 cups sugar 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon salt 4 1/2 cups whole milk 9 egg yolks 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon butter 1 16 oz. fresh or frozen pound cake, cut into one-inch cubes 2 cans cherry pie filling Whipped cream for topping Custard: Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. Whisk in milk, and stir over medium-high heat until boiling. Let boil for 2 minutes while continuing to stir. Remove from heat. Whisk egg yolks in a small bowl. Slowly whisk one cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks. Return this mixture to the saucepan, and stir over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Continue to boil for 2 minutes while stirring. Remove from heat, and stir in butter and vanilla. Cool in sauce pan for 20 minutes, stirring

occasionally. Pour into a large bowl and place plastic wrap on the surface. Refrigerate until completely cool. Assembly (for one large triﬂe): Place half the cake cubes in the bottom of a trifle bowl. Next, layer one can of cherry pie filling, followed by half the custard. Repeat. Top with whipped cream and a dollop of cherry pie filling for decoration. Note: This can be made into individual servings as seen in picture as well. Also, the custard can be used in several different recipes, such as banana pudding.

Healthy Holidays Eating Guide: Yes, It’s Okay to Splurge a Little By Sheena Gregg Ah the holidays ... one of my most favorite times of year. Yes, I love family, and sure I love gifts, but good gracious do I love the food. There’s something about the Christmas and holiday season in general that provides a platform for specific types of dishes. It seems un-American to prepare a large roasted turkey in the middle of summer, so of course we’ve got to take advantage of the bounty of food brought to the table in December. However, if we’re watching our weight or health in general, the holidays may make us feel uneasy about overdoing it. But fear not my friends, your favorite Druid City dietitian is ready to give you some quick tips to navigate the holiday season! 1. Do decide which gatherings you want to splurge at the most. If you’re quite the social butterfly or just have a massive family like me, you’re probably getting invited to multiple holiday parties. Instead of going all out at every occasion, decide which gatherings you want to use to eat your heavier meals, versus feeling obligated to eat like it’s going out of style at every party you’re invited to. 2. Don’t plan to start dieting in January. Just think about it ... when

you know that a diet is looming around the corner, what do you start doing? If

of deprivation and diet, we can eat sensible portions during the holiday season,

Happy (and Healthy) Holidays to Everyone, from Sheena and Terry Gregg. Photo: Sheena Gregg

you’re like me, I start eating everything in sight, because I know I’m going to have to give it up come diet time. But if we stop associating January as a month

avoiding that “all or nothing” mentality. 3. Do keep up with your ﬂuids. Did you know that the body often mimics the feeling of hunger as an initial sign

of dehydration? By making sure you’re being consistent with good water intake throughout the holidays, you can keep yourself from misreading the initial signs of dehydration as a signal of hunger. And speaking of fluids, be mindful of calories you get from holiday coffee drinks, eggnog, and various alcoholic beverages. A few are okay, but keep in mind that alcohol can lessen inhibitions and promote overeating. 4. Don’t eat super-fast. Did you know that it takes approximately 15-20 minutes for the brain and stomach to communicate chemically and give us the sensation of fullness? If we eat rapidly, we may consume copious amounts of food beyond what we needed in the first place to be satisfied. Slowing down your pace of eating and keeping a goal of eating until we are satisfied – versus being stuffed – help us enjoy all our holiday favorites without feeling like we’re breaking the bank in the calorie department. Remember, the holidays are a time for friends, family, laughter, and social fun in general. Just because you have certain health goals doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all your holiday favorites. With a little planning ahead, your holiday season can be delicious and nutritious!

FOOD 21

December 2017

Taste of Tuscaloosa: Coffee Shop UPerk Cultivates Community Downtown

By Sheena Gregg UPerk officially opened its doors in August 2017, but community manager Jamey Hamm says it was established in 2016. “Though we opened just this August, we have 2016 on the wall, because that’s when Pastor James Goodlet had the UPerk idea,” said Hamm. Though connected to First Presbyterian Church and its college ministry, UKirk, the coffee shop aims to be a place of community and fellowship for everyone. “We want people to know we’re more than a coffee shop. We want to provide a place of community and be plugged into the community. Part of our proceeds every month go to different charities and other local efforts,” said Hamm. UPerk believes its partnership with Birmingham-based Seeds Coffee brings a high-quality coffee product to its consumers. “We had a two-day training with the folks from Seeds, and they spent an extensive amount of time making sure each barista knew how to make the perfect espresso shot,” said UPerk barista Maggie White. “I never knew how intricate the process was, but it’s worth it.”

Left: Jamey Hamm serves as UPerk’s community manager and has overseen operations since the shop’s opening in August. Right: UPerk’s pastry items are made in-house daily. The shop also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options all day long. Photos: Sheena Gregg

And it’s not just about the coffee, either. The staff of UPerk claim that much of the word of mouth about the shop is due to the food, including a popular vegan burger that sells out weekly. Accompanied with apple slaw, and root veggie chips, the pea protein-based burger patty comes on a whole wheat bun with watermelon pickle relish and baby kale. “Our food items are offered all day

long,” said Hamm. Whether it’s the made in-house pastry items, the diverse meal selection, or the coffee beans from around the world, UPerk aims to be a place that fosters community. One sip of Ethiopian coffee and an espresso shot (made by White) has me convinced that UPerk will be a regular stop in my routine. Word of mouth is definitely strong, with many customers raving that

UPerk has the best espresso in Tuscaloosa. “We want our coffee shop to be an incubator for ideas for folks to go out in the community and give back. While doing that, we want to give a high-quality product that we’re proud of and people will come back for,” Hamm said. For more information on UPerk Coffee, visit uperk.org.

December Calendar of Events DCL Saves the Date

Holidays on the Holiday Hoopla River: Through at CHOM: Dec. Jan. 15, Tuscaloosa 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Amphitheater. With Children’s Hands-On Ice skating, music, Museum of Tuscavisits from Santa loosa, downtown and more, this event Tuscaloosa. Make offers something for your way through the entire family. For the ornament and more information, gift creating stations. visit holidaysontheThen, head over to river.com or Holithe wrapping area days on the River on and wrap it up! For Facebook. more information, Candyland visit chomonline.org. Breakfasts and A Message of Brunch with SanHope Live Nativity: ta and Mrs. Claus Dec. 16-17, 6-8 p.m. at CHOM: Dec. 2, Taylorville Baptist Children’s HandsChurch, TuscalooThe Alabama Choir School will hold its winter concerts on Friday, Dec. 15 and Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Moody Concert Hall of the School of Music on the University of Alabama campus. “Performances begin at 7 p.m., and include the school’s five choirs with singers from grades 1-12. For On Museum of Tussa. There will be 10 ticket information, call (205) 758-0927, or purchase them at the door. To learn more about the Alabama Choir School, visit alachoirschool.org. caloosa, downtown drive-thru scenes, live Tuscaloosa. For more animals, and narrative Tuscaloosa Community Dancers Presinformation, including specific times, visit audio. For more information, visit taylorvilleents “The Nutcracker”: Dec. 7-10, Bama chomonline.org. baptist.org. Theatre, downtown Tuscaloosa. Show times: Free Christmas Play: Dec. 2, 10:30 a.m.Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra’s AnThursday and Friday, 7 p.m., Saturday 10 Noon. Northport Civic Center. The Calico nual TSO Christmas Celebration: Dec. a.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. Tickets are available Street troupe will feature “The Christmas online at tututix.com/TuscaloosaCommunity- 18, 7 p.m. Moody Music Building Concert Story” with costumed actors, dancers, special Dancers. Hall, University of Alabama School of Music, lighting, and music, all on a 36-foot stage. All Tuscaloosa. The TSO is once again partnering Theatre Tuscaloosa Presents Charles ages are welcome. For more information, visit Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”: Dec. 7-17, with the Alabama Choir School and the Prencalicostreet.com. Bean-Brown Theatre, Tuscaloosa. In this clas- tice Concert Chorale for this annual event, 5th Street Vintage Market: Dec. 3, 11 featuring classical and contemporary holiday sic, four spirits visit Ebenezer Scrooge in his a.m.-4 p.m., 4150 5th Street, Northport. The favorites that bring the Christmas spirit to life. dreams to help him find the true meaning of Vintage Market is a great place to find unusu- Christmas. To purchase tickets, visit theatreFor more information, including tickets, call al and unique treasures, from vintage books, (205) 752-5515 or visit tsoonline.org. tusc.com or call the Theatre Tuscaloosa Box clothes, and jewelry to handmade items, vinyl Office at (205) 391-2277. Live Nativity Pageant: Dec. 19-26, 7 p.m. records, and more. For more information, visit and 7:45 p.m. 904 Princeton Place (in NorthJolly Jingles Christmas Market: Dec. 9, 5thstreetvintagemarket.com. port near Vestavia Elementary School, turn 9 a.m.-1 p.m. American Christian Academy, Alabama Museum of Natural History on Hunter Creek from McFarland Blvd. or Tuscaloosa. This event, sponsored by the Holiday Open House: Dec. 3, 4-5:30 p.m. ACA Art Department, features arts and crafts Highway 69). The fourth-annual Live NativiAlabama Museum of Natural History, Univer- by local vendors, handmade gifts, gift wrapty Pageant tells the Christmas Story featuring sity of Alabama campus. Enjoy hot beverages ping, food and treats, and more. Santa will be drama, costumed actors, outdoor staging, live and treats, as well as fun activities for chilanimals, music, and Christmas dances. Seatthere too. Admission is free. dren. Santa Mouse at CHOM: Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-4 ing is available. For more information, email 42nd Annual West Alabama Christmas p.m. Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tusca- howdyeverybody@gmail.com. Parade, PARA: Dec. 4, downtown TuscaloChristmas Cow Party with Moosie at loosa, downtown Tuscaloosa. Make a Santa osa. Christmas tree lighting ceremony on the CHOM: Dec. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Children’s Mouse ornament, and enjoy story time readsteps of the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse, Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa, downtown ings of Santa Mouse. For more information, 5:15 p.m. Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. For Tuscaloosa. Sing songs and carols, and enjoy visit chomonline.org. more information, visit tcpara.org. Christmas Aﬂoat: Dec. 9, 5:45 p.m. Black Christmas stories and holiday tales with RivDickens Downtown: Dec. 5, 5-8 p.m., erboat John, and more. For more information, Warrior River, Tuscaloosa and Northport. historic downtown Northport. This commuvisit chomonline.org. This holiday flotilla by the “Pirates of the nity supported Victorian holiday gathering New Year’s Celebration for Kids at Warrior” boat club is back for 2017. For more celebrates the true spirit of Christmas. For CHOM: Dec. 30, 10 a.m.-Noon Children’s information on this annual lighted Christmas more information on this free event, visit Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa, downtown parade, visit Tuscaloosa Christmas Afloat dickens-downtown.com. Tuscaloosa. Celebrate the new year with DJ 2017 on Facebook. Big Sandy Baptist Country Christmas: Chuckie, party horns, and a balloon drop Chamber Business After Hours: Dec. Dec. 7-8, 6-8 p.m. Big Sandy Baptist Church, 12, 5-7 p.m. The Bank of Tuscaloosa Plaza, (promptly at 11 a.m.). For more information, Tuscaloosa. Take a step back in time to a Tuscaloosa. Formore information, visit tusca- visit chomonline.org. “Country Christmas.” Enjoy a country store, loosachamber.com. hayrides, hot cocoa, crafts for the children The ACT Presents “The Lion, The Witch Events you want to see here? to make for the tree, and the story of the first and the Wardrobe”: Dec. 15-18, Bama Email us at: Christmas. This event is free. For more infor- Theatre, Tuscaloosa. Journey to the magical editor@druidcitymedia.com mation, visit bigsandybaptist.org. land of Narnia with The Actor’s Charitable Theatre, and enjoy this live production of C.S. Lewis’ classic, timeless tale. Tickets: $12-20. For more information, visit theact.info.

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