Planet weekly 447

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ALABAMA BREWFEST SABAN WANTS BETTER THE LITTLE BAR THAT COULD

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NEWS

HOLIDAYS ON THE RIVER // NOW UNDERWAY New Dental Plan Available to Members In an effort to enhance Chamber membership, we've teamed up with Southland Benefit Solutions to offer members an option for dental insurance. Call 391-0554 or email tracy@tuscaloosachamber.com for more info.

Downtown T-Town Holiday Window Competition

Donation Made in Support of a Friend The Chamber's Downtown Merchants committee has partnered with PARA for a Holiday Window Competition. Businesses in the greater downtown area (Queen City to MLK Jr. Blvd. and 15th St. to the Black Warrior River) are encouraged to decorate the windows of their business with the theme "Candy Canes and Christmas Carols" by Dec. 9 at noon. There's NO entry fee. To enter, please send an email to dowtownttown205@gmail.com.

Last Chance: Get on the Map Let everyone know where your business is with a "dot" locator on our official Street Map. Only a few ad spaces left.

Contact Ginger at flmaplady@gmail.com or 850-866-3385, if interested.

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The Chamber was able to present $4000 to the American Cancer Society recently. This money came from t-shirts and wristbands that we sold in support of our friend David Reynolds. They asked the Cancer Society to keep this money local for programs and patients at the Manderson Cancer Care Center at DCH. The Chamber still has some “I’m With Dave” t-shirts and wristbands available at their office at 2201 Jack Warner Pkwy. between 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Mon-Thurs or

8:30 -12:00 pm on any Fri. T-shirts are $12 each and wristbands are given with any donation. THANK YOU for the support.

Please continue the prayers and good thoughts for our friend.

Holidays on the River is Underway.

Tickets on Sale Now

The City of Tuscaloosa’s second annual Holidays on the River ice rink and winter village will run through Sunday, January 5 on the lawn of the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum. The 100-by-60 foot ice skating rink will include a 14-foot tall, 120-foot long ice slide. The Museum features “Expeditions to the North Pole.” Tickets can be purchased at the ice rink box office will be open at the

Transportation Museum. Tickets can also be purchased online at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800.745.3000. For more info, visit HolidaysOnTheRiver.com.

T-Town Diaper Drive Learning Experiences owners Teresa and Sam Davis want to make you aware of the need for diapers in our area.

Newborn, toddler and adult sizes are all needed and those donated will be distributed to social service agencies. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to participate in the T-Town Diaper Drive.

Drop off points include Learning Experiences, Crimson Realty and Mac Hobbies.

Donations for Diaper Change are being accepted, too. Checks should be made out to the agency of your choice with Diaper Change noted. Goal is to become part of the National Diaper Bank Network.

Call 205.331.9562 or email tskurkadavis@ yahoo.com for more info.

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inside

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>>> planetweeklyissue447

FEATURES

SPORTS

5 POWER VS. DEMOCRACY // RACHEL AHRNSEN How "Machine" candidates win elections

21 HIGH TIDE

// GARY HARRIS Da'Shawn Hand joins the Crimson Tide

6 The great reconciliation // ALYX CHANDLER Shakespeare with meaning

PUBLISHER LIN DA W. J OHNSON MANAGING EDITOR H ER B NEU ASSISTANT EDITOR RYAN PHILLIPS COVER DESIGN LAU R A LIN E B E R R Y SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR R YAN P H ILLIPS DESIGN/LAYOUT HERB NEU

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS R AC H E L A H R NS E N W ILLIAM B A R S H OP CA R A B R A K E R YAN P H ILLIPS ALY X C H AN D L E R ST E P H E N SMIT H T R E Y B R OO K S VAN R O B E R TS GARY HARRIS REGGIE ALLEN JIM REED

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9 which is better? // STEPHEN SMITH National title or Heisman trophy

11 BEER REVIEW // RYAN PHILLIPS Delirium Tremens – O.M.G.

12 HAIKKADO REVIEW

// CARA BRAKE

Perfection Japanese style

14 LOCAL STAR IN REALITY SHOW // WILLIAM BARSHOP

How does she handle 22 suitors?

25 SIMONE SAYS // ADVICE FOR THE ASKING 27 TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA // Trey Brooks

They truly bring the holidays to life

FEATURE // VAN ROBERTS

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

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Events Calendar

Planet Weekly is published every other Thursday. No part of this publication including editorials may be reproduced, in whole or part, by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the Publisher’s prior expressed written consent. One copy of each issue of THE PLANET WEEKLY is free to each of our readers. Any reader who takes more than two copies without expressed permission of the publisher shall be deemed to have committed theft (as if...).

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Road Trip

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Tuscaloosa music

"DELIVERY MAN" 7 A gem of a film

23 Horoscopes // Sudoku 24 CROSSWORD PUZZLe

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

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‘TIS THE SEASON FOR HIGHER CRIME RATES // T-TOWN & NORTHPORT MERCHANTS RAMP UP

Now that the holiday season is upon us, it brings the annual swarms of retail shoppers and packed dinner tables full of spirited conversation between often confrontational relatives.

Crowded shopping malls and outlets adorned with festively decorated Christmas trees and multi-colored tinsel will buzz with holiday commerce. Product shelves in retail stores will be filled as quickly as they can be restocked with customers clawing for the perfect deal at the last minute. Homes will be filled with visiting relatives who bring with them their eccentricities along with myriad holiday gifts wrapped in less than conspicuous ways. While the lighter side of this holiday is often the one highlighted in popular culture, several issues spur from this time of year, namely a wide ranges of violent and non-violent crimes.

The holiday season is indeed a time of giving and receiving for many law-abiding citizens, but on the dark side of this

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shopping season, a large number decide to take.

As retail item prices go down for the holidays, crime is poised to go up with sharp increases seen in thefts and violent crimes, even in places like Tuscaloosa.

According to official statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 133,153 property crimes occurred in the state of Alabama in 2012, with around 88,000 involving theft. During the holidays when gratuitous sums of money are spent on elaborate gifts that then sit wrapped under the living room tree for a month, the likelihood of these kinds of thefts will ultimately rise.

Lindsey Johnson, Operations Manager of Old Navy at Midtown-Tuscaloosa, cited the holiday season as a catalyst in relation to higher theft numbers at this and other stores. In a larger store that caters to a wide range of customers, Johnson said that it is crucial to know what forms possible shoplifters may come in.

“Around the holidays, thefts pick up quite a bit”, she said. “In a past year we had an event going on that also featured a blood drive outside of the store. Then a regular shoplifter came into the store that was well known because she came in the store often. There were a few of us on the blood drive bus and someone in the store called us and said she was in the store so we immediately called the police. We saw her from the bus and saw her run toward the bus and began knocking on the door.

Then she recognized one of us from the store and started running from the entire group down the sidewalk through midtown.”

Johnson then pointed to the size of particular items for sale in the store as a clear incentive for shoplifters but said that successfully applied store precautions are in place to help avoid as many cases possible.

“We encounter a lot of theft of smaller items, especially baby items, those are usually small and easy to hide”, she said.

“If we see anyone come in with any sort of red flag items like large purses with straps hanging off their shoulders or people who come in large groups and immediately separate to different parts of the store, we try to keep an eye out for that or someone may come over the walkie-talkie and say we have a ‘friend’ in the store, you don’t say shoplifter obviously and then we immediately send an associate to provide customer service to the individual to keep them occupied so they can’t steal anything.”

The number of thefts at a large retail store such as Old Navy is not restricted to a time of year or demographic of shoplifter, she said, but given the size of the store it is assumed that this number will be higher during the holidays due to a higher volume of shoppers in an outlet that contains large quantities of products.

Johnson then said she felt confident in the measures put in place for this holiday season and hopes that this holiday season will be one with a limited number of incidences.

In a smaller Midtown outlet across the street from Old Navy, one shop manager finds a structural advantage when it comes to countering holiday shoplifters.

While most stores highlight their Big Box potential to holiday shoppers, a small size can yield big profits.

Mark Hughes, Store Manager at Wagner’s Run Walk in Midtown, said that while the possibility for shoplifting exists, as with any store, the size of this particular outlet is a preemptive measure in keeping track of customers as they handle merchandise.

“We are fortunate from the standpoint that we are a smaller store and sell mostly shoes so it is really tough for someone to take a display and steal it”, he said.

“There aren’t a lot of things you can put in your pockets that aren’t right beside the

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counter. It puts us at a real advantage in terms of loss for sure.”

To date, the store has not encountered problems with shoplifters, regardless of the holiday rush that is guaranteed to bring in hordes of customers with sticky fingers who may be difficult to watch in a busy environment.

“We have never had to run into the parking lot and chase someone down who has stolen something thank goodness, so you can say that we have been fortunate to not have to deal with that,” he said.

Despite the seemingly secure confines of a smaller outlet, other measures are still taken to prevent the possibility of theft and according to Hughes, the customers ultimately reap the benefits from a store that is not hampered by setting aside funds dedicated to covering stolen property.

“Our biggest threat of any kind is theft of our apparel, where a customer may go in the dressing room and brings ten pieces of things in there and come out with two but our associates are always aware of how much is going in and out,” he said. “The biggest issue is that we try to keep theft to an absolute minimum and we are ultimately able to pass those savings along to the customer. I think a lot of times when people look at retail businesses, they think that everything is marked up and many people think they are just out trying to make money but a lot has to do with things like theft and shrinkage, so if we avoid that we can keep lower prices for our customers.”

The retail sector is not the only one affected by holiday crime. As stated

by Hughes, profit for companies can ultimately be affected by theft, which can also be seen in the changing world of online shopping, which sees the most use during the holidays. In the 2013 eCommerce Cyber Crime Report conducted by the Ponemon Institute, the damage to commercial finances can be seen through the sample used for the study.

“According to organizations in our study the amount of revenue lost due to internet fraud can do measurable harm to the bottom line”, the study said.” An average of almost 5 percent of total revenues (gross sales) were lost due to the financial and brand impact of internet fraud during the past 12 months—it gets worse when you consider what the cost could be to customer loyalty if it becomes impossible to make a purchase or there is perception that the website is not secure. According to the companies in our study, an average of $3.4 million is what reputation and brand damage can cost as a result of the loss of customers.”

Unlike operating a structurally small outlet where products and customers are in plain view of employees, cyber crime Continued on page 22

>>> E X P O S é | R AC H E L A H R NS E N

MAN VS. MACHINE // A SECRET SOCIETY CHALLENGES DEMOCRACY IN TUSCALOOSA

PHOTO: Fernando Decillis

In 1928, an article appeared in the University of Alabama’s student newspaper The Crimson White, entitled, “To The Student Body.” It began, “We desire to call your attention to a situation which we regard as a serious menace not only to the student government itself but to the social and academic life of the University. That there exists or has existed a secret national political fraternity on the campus. That this institution is called Theta Nu Epsilon.”

tion called The Skulls. Through 1922, The Skulls were a sanctioned student group which held dances and parades.

When the organization went underground, it was called, “the Machine,” or, “the Group.” Whatever the name, it remained a coalition of white greek organizations that maintains political control.

“It is the same thing they were 100 years ago. That’s a problem I have with it: it’s completely stagnant. Only the scope of their influence is broader,” says UA

Eighty-five years later, through a Great War, moon landings and the advent of the computer, this institution remains a reality.

It has many names, though it began as Theta Nu Epsilon, an approved UA fraternity. However, the National Inter-Fraternity Conference labeled T.N.E, "subversive," in 1913 and it was dissolved.

Out of the remnants arose an organiza-

student Kirkland Back.

Back is acutely aware of their influence. She was elected by them.

Now a senior in the sorority system at UA, Back was elected by the Machine to the position of Student Government Association Senator when she was a freshman.

“When I was elected, I was so excited.

I ran out of a meeting shouting, ‘I got it!

we won’t get Homecoming Queen, we I got it!’ But when I came to the house, won’t get SGA. All of it’s going to be taken no one was excited. They said, ‘Well, away.’ I knew 280 girls were about to hate yeah, of course you got it.’ I thought I was me...so I denied it. I was scared.” elected because I was qualified and pasSocial exclusion is a common threat sionate and had plans. But it wasn’t me,. the Machine uses against sororities. They It was the Machine.” claim no fraternities will hold social events Back, along with other Machine with disobedient sororities. senators, attended underground meetBack continued to deny her vote, realings where they decided how to vote in izing the enormous social pressure the Senate.

Machine possessed.

“They’re not putting on black robes “I began to wonder why I had been and doing rituals. They’re sitting around a investing all of myself into an organization basement Sunday night, probably with a that didn’t care about me. It’s not you they few beers, talking about who they should care about, it’s the system. After that, vote for.” The Machine has a president, I was done with it. I still went to all the treasurer, officers, and sizeable funds to underground meetings, but I put on this coordinate the group. uber sorority girl act. If it was a religion, I Most of the 27 traditionally white frawas praying every day...the Machine does ternities and sororities are affiliated with rule with fear, but for me it was not a fear the Machine. Each house has one or two for personal safety. It’s the fear of social representatives, and the older represenalienation. If the Machine puts their thumb tatives hand pick their replacements. on you, where do you go? To the adminisThe way the Machine decides to vote tration, who won’t admit it’s real? To your depends on the election. Homecoming sorority sisters?”

Queen is determined The only time UA by a rotation of sororiMachine candidates administration has ties. “It’s not a big honor, often go far beyond intervened in SGA it’s just your year,” says politics was 1993, Back. SGA positions are local government, reaching up to the after independent more carefully chosen, with personalities taking national political level, candidate Minda Riley was attacked precedence over affiliawith SGA as their with a knife in her tion. The way students training ground. home, allegedly by know who to vote for is a Machine member. revealed differently in The university disbanded SGA until 1996. every house. Back says, “In my sororWhen asked if she thought the ity, they would say, ‘We want to tell you Machine could be violent, Back said, about this great person, y’all should vote “They’re going to do what they have to do for them,’... but you knew who the implied, to keep their power. That’s important to ‘we,’ was.” remember.”

To ensure the voting bloc remains Such university intervention is unlikely strong, Greek organizations require now. According to the Associated Press, members to turn in emails that UA’s onUA has invested $202 million in conline ballot system generates after voting. struction of greek houses over the past Back says freshmen are led to believe the decade. University spokeswoman Cathy email reveals who they voted for, though Andreen said house construction is usuthis information is not included. Members ally financed through bonds sold by UA are fined for not voting. that are repaid by Greek organizations.

As she continued her position as an $50 million is due in payments every year.

SGA senator, Back developed reservaAccording to Greek Affairs, greek life tions about her role in the Machine. “I at UA has doubled from 2002 to 2012. wasn’t representing Arts and Sciences, The greek community at UA now has the I was representing the Greeks. I recognized that, and I felt a lot of guilt,” said Back.

In 2011, she rebelled against the Machine by voting for Ryan Flamerich, a non-Machine candidate, for speaker of the senate. Flamerich won by four votes, becoming the first independent elected to office since 1986, when John Merrill served as SGA president.

After her decision, “people just didn’t talk to me for a while,” said Back. Anonymous commenters on The Crimson White Cason Kirby, the Machine's choice, beat website began insulting her in article out highly effective Dist. 4 school board comments. Then Back was called into a incumbant, Kelly Horwitz, in a controversial meeting with both the Machine represenelection covered more extensively by the tative and president of her sorority.

NY Times than the local press.

“They said, ‘If you did this, that means

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Continued on page 13

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THE GREAT RECONCILIATION // SHAKESPEARE’S HENRY COMES TO UA

With makeshift costumes from closets and revised scripts in hand, members of Improbable Fiction, a group sponsored by the renaissance literature Hudson Strode Program at the University of Alabama, prepare their audience for yet another unpredictable performance.

A free performance of the condensed Shakespearian Henry Part I and II will be directed by Natalie Hopper, an English Graduate Teaching Assistant, and performed through Improbable Fiction on December 6 at 8 p.m., at the Tuscaloosa Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center.

The upcoming hour- and a-half show will feature an intimate script in hand performance by an eclectic cross section of English Department teachers, Drama undergraduates and graduates of the University of Alabama. The focus is on the tense political and emotional relationship of Henry with his father, King Henry, played by first-time performer and undergraduate Joey Gamble and UA theater professor Steve Burch, respectively. It will unearth buried family drama and Henry and his father’s “great reconciliation” scene.

“I mean, how often do you see Shakespeare in West Alabama?” Nick Helms, the Artistic Director and Founder of Improbable Fictions, said.

Improbable Fiction began on March 25, 2010, and since then has produced two to three shows per semester of condensed Shakespearean or Greek plays at different Tuscaloosa venues. The hilarious and relaxed atmosphere of the dozen or so actors and actresses has previously drawn in quite an audience, with up to eighty attending students, teachers and people from Tuscaloosa and the Black Belt community.

Improbable Fiction showcases a downto-earth production style very unlike Shakespeare’s elaborate performances.

The roles of characters are chosen over an informal audition only a week before the show is produced and the first readthrough occurs the Sunday before the show. Actors practice lines and loose blocking for a few hours each night.

The minimum props and a bare stage doesn’t lend itself easy for a play like Hen-

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ry that involves war. In Henry Part I and II, the performers challenged themselves to find little ways to involve the audience without going overboard. Both Hopper and Helms agree that their shows are always all about improvising.

“Very few of us are actually experienced actors, ” Helms said. “That’s what makes it all the more real and in the moment.”

The idea for the program sparked when Helms realized his sophomore English students would be able to better comprehend the plot line, jokes and puns if they saw facial expressions and actions.

This way they could get something more out of the Shakespeare and Greek plays they learned.

“When the actors know what they’re saying, then they can deliver it in a way that makes the audience understand what’s happening,” Hopper said. “It makes them laugh.”

Helms says he thought it would cinch some of the boredom derived from the hard to follow language. Instead of making students feel bogged down because they didn’t catch all the jokes, this helped them visualize a real picture.

Hopper says at their first performance, no one laughed for almost half the show until one of the actors came onstage humming ‘Bad Romance’ by Lady Gaga, then everyone in the audience relaxed and the rest of the show went well. Humor like this connects the audience in Improbable Fictions. Since then, awkward moments have been cherished by audience and actors alike. Twins were played by people of very different heights and entire scripts were scattered onstage at what turned out to be precisely the perfect moment for increased drama. O’Dair says they’re able to do fun and interesting things reproducing Shakespeare’s work with the current politics and age.

“There’s moments where it’s really obvious we’re people with scripts, and there’s moments where you get swept away,” Helmes said.

Corpsing, which is when actors break out of character, is coined as bad in professional theaters. Improbable Fiction,

on the other hand, takes advantage of the casual stage presence by playing off the humorous relationship it has with the audience. The cast members are forced to take on an energetic role in order to fulfill such a short notice play.

“It reminds everyone we’re amateurs here to have fun,” Helms said. “You don’t have to be trained to do Shakespeare.”

When Helms and his colleagues first began Improbable Fiction, barely enough people were interested. Now, more and more people out of the English Department circle are participating and over eight different people have directed the shows. Auditions this year were forced to leave people with promises that if someone wasn’t used for one particular show, they would definitely be used for the next performance.

The scripts are cut by the chosen director so that members have something that can be rehearsed and performed quickly. Extremely archaic words or sections of the originally published version are only changed if necessary or if some of the characters need to be omitted or merged together to conserve time.

“The thing about Shakespeare is not only is he a object of study in his time period, he is also an object of study right now and that’s what our program is about, “ Sharon O’Dair, the Hudson Strode Professor of English and the Director of the Hudson Strode Program in Renaissance Studies, said.

The Hudson Strode Program was started because Strode was a benefactor to the English Department at the University of Alabama. He was also a successful author and teacher of writing and Shakespeare at the University from 1916 to 1963. He left a legacy for his passion of renaissance literature, so after he and his wife passed away, the school set about spending the money in the way that would honor him most.

“Its important because it’s the only privately endowed program like it in the south, so we’ve been very wise with the funds given,” O’Dair said.

Every year the Hudson Strode program admits four lively Master’s students and one Ph.D. to concen-

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trate on English Renaissance Literature through lectures, seminars and performances. Helm’s addition of Improbable Fiction was more than proven worthy of the Hudson Strode Program support.

With just the perfect amount of rehearsal required, the lines and roles of the characters amplify the still sensational quality of renaissance plays. On the night of the show, Helmes says the play itself really clicks for everyone—cast and audience alike. “You realize that at this point you really just have to commit,” said Hopper.

O’Dair says Improbable Fiction has been unique because of Helm’s heavy interest in performance. People around the state and region are able to come together and foster a collegiate relationship and collaboration with the Shakespearean loving people at the University of Alabama.

More and more people participate each year, and the audience numbers continue to grow. O’Dair says even if Strode is spinning in his grave, the modern adaptions to the program and plays over the years has attracted a presence that keeps the love of Shakespeare alive.

Improbable Fiction welcomes all to attend the one time showing of the staged adaptation of Shakespeare’s play Henry Part I and II on December 8.

>>> F I L M | V A N R O B E R T S

"DELIVERY MAN" // A RARE SPECIAL PACKAGE // A GEM OF A FILM ««««

Funny man Vince Vaughn has made a career out of playing obnoxious, motormouthed, louts in raucous comedies like “The Wedding Crashers,” “Couples Retreat,” “The Internship,” “Old School,” “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story,” and “The Watch.” In his latest laffer “Delivery Man,” he doesn’t portray another obnoxious, motor-mouthed, lout. Instead, he plays a sympathetic, soft-spoken, slacker.

Subdued as he is in writer & director Ken Scott’s remake of his own French-Canadian film “Starbuck” (2011), Vaughn is cast as a middle-aged, ne’er-do-well, oddball who scraped together a pile of dough during his youth from providing sperm donations for a fertility clinic. The premise of “Delivery Man” is singular in its novelty.

No other comedy that I can recall has ever employed this plot. In an administrative blunder of nightmarish proportions, the fertility clinic relied almost predominantly on our protagonist’s sperm, and the 693 deposits that he banked with them bred 533 children! Two decades later, the

progeny insist on meeting their papa, and they challenge our humble hero in court to divulge his identity. As rude, crude, and lewd as “Delivery Man” must sound, this sentimental, feel-good, PG-13, pleasantry is not cut from the same cloth as most of Vaughn’s characteristic, lowest common denominator, slapstick farces. Incredibly enough, in a season celebrating superheroic exploits like “Thor: The Dark World” and feats of empowered femininity like the incendiary “The Hunger Games” sequel “Catching Fire,” “Delivery Man” focuses on down-to-earth, flesh-and-blood characters who live quiet lives and blend into the background. A conspicuous loser in virtually every facet of his life, our sperm donor extraordinaire has no idea that he has sired so many offspring.

David Wozniak (Vince Vaughn of “Four Christmases”) drives a meat delivery truck for Wozniak & Sons, his immigrant father’s business in New York City. Without a doubt, David is the slowest delivery man on his papa’s payroll. Not only is he a magnet

for uniformed NYPD cops writing parking citations, but also he has landed on the wrong side of ruthless loan sharks. He is over his head in debt to these hooligans for $80-thousand. Nevertheless, everybody loves David, including his cute girlfriend, Emma (Cobie Smulders of “Safe Haven”), who happens to be one of New York City’s finest. Before our ill-fated protagonist learns about his woes from the fertility clinic, he discovers that Emma is pregnant.

She adores David, but isn’t entirely sure that he would make an adequate breadwinner. She agrees to give David a chance but warns him that he will remain on probation until she decides otherwise.

Sadly, David has struggled over the years with various get-rich-quick schemes.

Those pie-in-the-sky ideas have yielded little in the way of consequence. As the action unfolds, David has just scrapped his latest inspiration—cultivating marijuana hydroponically—when he learns about Emma’s pregnancy. Emma has always wondered why David has never invited her to his cramped man cave where he tries to grow pot. While David is worrying about his woes with Emma, he finds out that 142 offspring from the fertility clinic have embarked on a class-action lawsuit to smoke him out into the open. When our hero submitted his sperm to the clinic back in the day, he signed a confidentially contract.

David’s best friend and sometime attorney Brett (Chris Pratt of “Moneyball”) advises him to lay low. Brett has four children of his own and advises David to steer clear of his children. David has never distinguished himself with his brilliance. He takes a packet from Brett that contains profiles of the 142 children. Mind you, every one of David’s biologically sired children is grownup. Despite Brett’s warnings to not peruse the profiles, David does and hatches a bizarre scheme to act as their guardian angels. He helps out his offspring without letting them know that he has a stake in their lives. Initially, he attends a basketball game where one son is playing and behaves like a one-man cheerleader squad.

In another instance, he stands in for a barista so the guy can attend a casting call for actors. Predictably, inept as David is, he all but destroys the coffee shop as he tries to perform a good deed. Later, he rescues a daughter as she is about to plunge herself into the nightmare of heroin addiction. Several lesser examples occur with David berating wolves whistling at a sexy daughter, assisting a drunken son with a cab, and urging bystanders to ante up contributions for a sidewalk musician.

Meanwhile, Brett tries to concoct a strategy that will serve them well in court. Brett is a woebegone underdog himself. Indeed, his own mother assured him long ago that he is no Perry Mason. When Brett tries out his courtroom defense approach on his four children, they question his competence as an attorney!

Scott and Québec-born, co-scenarist

4 ou t of 4

Martin Petit never miss a chance to be multi-culturally correct. As it turns out, the women who availed themselves of David’s prolific sperm donations were not exclusively white. David begat a few AfricanAmericans, too. Furthermore, some of his grown-up brood preferred to explore alternate lifestyles. At least one of them is Cloud Atlas handicapped both mentally and physically.

The awkward scenes between David and his crippled son are the stuff of tearjerkers. A lesser movie would have depicted a breakthrough with the handicapped guy acknowledging his biological father. Of course, contrived as it is, “Delivery Man” doesn’t let our hero get off the hook. Just when it appears like David’s anonymity will remain intact, everything comes crashing down. Cynically, with the Thanksgiving holidays at hand, you could say that Touchstone Pictures, a division of Disney Studios, couldn’t have chosen a better time to release this art-house gem. Scott’s comedy celebrates fatherhood in general and presents a rainbow of situations in particular where parental love triumphs over adversity. “Delivery Man” qualifies as a refreshing change-of-pace for Vince Vaughn.

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

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24th Annual

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>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

>>> PLAYER PROFILE | ST E P H E N SMIT H

WHICH IS BETTER // NATIONAL TITLES OR HEISMAN TROPHIES?

Let’s face it; no one likes to lose in college football. It doesn’t matter if it’s accomplishing a winning season or racking up on multiple awards, coaches and players relish the thought of being a champion at the end of each season. Though any award in football is good, there is two that standout from the rest. Despite whether both awards spark a heated conversation or not, fans of college football can’t deny that the two most coveted awards are the BCS title trophy and the Heisman Trophy.

While the national title trophy is awarded to the best team in college football, the Heisman is awarded to the most outstanding player in the sport. However, where greatness lies, controversy is there too. In recent years, the Heisman Trophy has been awarded to the player that not only means the most to the team, but has provided the biggest impact on college football. Nowadays, the competition for the coveted bronze award has become a beauty pageant or a popularity contest.

For quarterbacks, it seemed simpler to accomplish the Heisman in the past.

All that was need was a good completion percentage, between 3,000-5,000 passing yards, 30-50 touchdown passes, 3-10 interceptions and a good quarterback rating. With the evolution of the spread offense and dual threat quarterbacks, it now takes more to accomplish a Heisman Trophy. Dual threat quarterbacks have the ability to extend plays with their athleticism and aggravate defenses. In a spread offense, its pick your poison if you’re a defense. The quarterback can either annihilate you passing the ball accurately or slash and gash you in the run game.

As for the typical pocket passer, it becomes harder for them to accomplish a Heisman because of their lack of mobility. They really have to depend on arm strength, accuracy, precision and ball placement. It is imperative for them to constantly read defenses, use check downs wisely and not make foolish mistakes. In order to compete with a mobile quarterback for the Heisman, a

pocket passer will have to have a better completion percentage and quarterback rating along with more passing yards and touchdowns.

Some college football analysts have even gotten to the point where they believe that “style points” for teams will be pivotal in a quarterback’s chances of winning the Heisman. The definition of style points is when you completely dominate an opponent that you are vastly better than. Many people will argue with this information because in order to win the Heisman, one must have a Heisman moment. The moment can occur in any game and at any given time.

While most individuals believe that a Heisman moment for a player should be when he is completely dominating the competition, the true mark of a moment is when a player may not have his best game, but still finds a way to tough it out and get the job done. For example, Alabama’s quarterback AJ McCarron.

As a three-year starter for the Tide, the road to being a leader hasn’t been easy for McCarron. He’s had his share of highs and lows, yet he continues to be the cornerstone of the Crimson Tide’s offense. Earlier in his career, McCarron was known as a “questionable game manager.” Two BCS titles and one SEC title later, he has gone from being game manager to undisputed leader of the team, despite the opinions of most college football analysts.

Though he hasn’t captured a Heisman yet, ESPN analysts have finally decided to place him in the top five of the conversation. He was in the same situation last season. After the 21-17 thrilling victory for Alabama against LSU, McCarron was placed as a “dark horse” in the Heisman race. He was place there in his ability to lead the team on a final drive that would cap off with a game-winning screen pass to TJ Yeldon. Despite the matchup with LSU being one of McCarron’s worst games statistically (completion percentage: 51 percent), he still managed to rally

the troops around him, put the team on his back and deliver a victory against LSU in Tiger Stadium.

This season, McCarron has outdueled Johnny Manziel, Zach Mettenberger and Bo Wallace, but his moment of toughness came against Mississippi State. It was mentioned earlier that you may have to tough it out in games in order to win the Heisman. In the matchup with the Bulldogs, McCarron encountered intense pressure and knocked around a lot. Despite being only sacked once, the offensive line didn’t provide a crisp pocket for him to work through. Nevertheless, McCarron still tossed two touchdown passes (two interceptions) and helped Alabama escape Starkville with a 20-7 win.

Of the top five quarterbacks in the Heisman conversation, McCarron is the only one with a national title. Though Manziel (19-5 as a starter) is the reigning Heisman winner, with losses to Auburn, Alabama and LSU (six interceptions combined), he may have played his way out of a shot at repeating.

Coming into the season, ESPN College GameDay analysts were raving about Marcus Mariota. They praised him on his accuracy, precision, arm strength and his ability to extend plays with his legs. Despite him being 21-3 as a sophomore starter, Oregon lost to Stanford for the second year in a row. In order to win the Heisman, one must not only dominate the opponent statistics, but also win the game. In the matchup against Arizona, Oregon was taken to the woodshed 42-16. Though Mariota completed 65.9 percent of his passes, he tossed two critical interceptions.

After seeing Robert Griffin III get drafted to the NFL, many people thought that Baylor would fall off the map. Little did they know that head coach Art Briles had a ram in the bush? The ram’s name is Bryce Petty and this season he has put on a show. The Baylor Bears have the No.1 ranked offense in college football, averaging 56.8 points per game. The majority of this success falls on Petty. The Bears are fourth in the nation in passing yards, averaging 381.9 per game.

Despite Petty having a stellar season, the 49-17 loss against Oklahoma State on the College GameDay stage, may hurt his opportunity of taking home the hardware.

Last season it was Manziel, this season a new freshman quarterback is drinking the miracle water. Jameis Win-

ston is an extraordinary talent. He has single-handedly put Florida State back on the map. He has a lot of poise and confidence for a freshman and that has helped him gain the trust of his teammates and the coaching staff. Head coach Jimbo Fisher has kept nothing away from Winston. He’s even allowed him to run the playbook. Winston’s numbers this season have been remarkable. He’s completing 69.6 (70 percent) percent of his passed for 3,163 yards, 32 touchdowns, seven interceptions with quarterback rating 194.5.

Winston is 11-0 as a starter and has the Seminoles locked in the Atlantic Coast Conference Championship Game along with an opportunity to play for a national title. The only thing that stands in his way is off-the-field issues. If these issues prove accurately, Winston may not walk home with the award.

As for McCarron, Alabama fans have gotten the joy of watching him grow and mature as a player and a person. In his first BCS title as a starter in 2011, analysts claimed that it was the defense that guided the Tide there. McCarron finished the season completing 66.8 percent of his passes for 2,634 yards, 16 touchdowns, five interceptions with a quarterback rating of 147.3.

The criticism of sports media outlets sparked McCarron into action in 2012.

With a young defense, Alabama leaned on McCarron for leadership and he didn’t let them down. Statistics wise, McCarron vastly improved in 2013. He completed 67.2 percent of his passes for 2,933 yards, 30 touchdowns, three interceptions (175.3 quarterback rating) and led the Tide to its 15th national title.

This season, McCarron has picked up where he left off. Though some of his receivers were slow coming out of the gate, he still managed to display trust in them and get them the ball. Thus far, McCarron is completing 68.6 percent of his passes for 2,399 yards, 23 touchdowns, five interceptions (165.1 quarterback rating) and is in route to a fourth national title (third as a starting quarterback).

Though winning the Heisman would be nice for McCarron, many are reminded of his interview with ESPN analysts Chris Fowler in which he said “I really don’t care. All my teammates and I want is another crystal ball (national title).” While the Heisman is concerned about stats, McCarron is concerned about winning.

You can have all the stats in the world, but it means nothing if you can’t win. The numbers don’t lie, McCarron is a winner.

He is 35-2 as a starter with championship experience to his name. If this doesn’t impress Heisman voters or NFL scouts, nothing will.

Contributing sports journalist Stephen Smith is a reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine and touchdownalabama.net.

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

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>>> wine REVIEW | R y a n p h i l l i p s

>>> RESTAURANTS |

Vizzini Farms Prove Local Favorite

BREAKFAST / DINNER

W here to E at in T uscaloosa

15th Street Diner 1036 15th St // 750.8750 Open for most lunch and dinners, with limited hours on weekends.

City Cafe 408 Main Ave | Downtown Northport // 758.9171 Established in 1936. Big on food, low on price. Open for breakfast and lunch. Historic downtown Northport. Closed weekends.

CountryPride Restaurant 3501 Buttermilk Rd // 554.0215 www.ta.travelcenters.com Breakfast 24 hours. Lunch and Dinner buffet.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store 4800 Doris Pate Dr | Exit 76 // 562.8282 www.crackerbarrel.com International House of Pancakes 724 Skyland Blvd // 366.1130 Jack's 1200 Hackberry Lane | Tuscaloosa // 345.1199 Maggie's Diner 1307 Ty Rogers Jr. Ave | Tuscaloosa // 366.0302 Mr. Bill's Family Restaurant 2715 McFarland Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 333.9312 Northport Diner 450 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 333.7190 Panera Bread 1800 McFarland Blvd *402 | Tuscaloosa // 366.8780

The local Alabama wine market has grown substantially in recent years and due to the demand and overall changing tastes of people within the state, new lines of artfully craft vinos seem to pop up all around the heart of Dixie.

Vizzini Farms Winery of Calera, Ala, has been family owned since 2005 and has strived to set itself apart from other southern vineyards. In the spirit of the autumn season and the football Saturday celebrations that echo around the state, Vizzini Farms offers a wine that is sure to keep fans rolling with the tide.

The Rolling Red from Vizzini Farms is a semi-sweet table wine reminiscent of the emerging popularity seen in the muscadine wine market. While the sweetness can easily fool the drinker’s taste buds into comparing it to Muscadine, the varietals used is a refreshing raspberry mix that is aromatically cool and flavorful until the last drop.

On the bottle itself, the color of this wine is creatively accented with a portrait of Elephants stampeding through a stormy crimson ocean. For many readers, this is a familiar image ingrained into the psyche of the state that also fits into the concept of this enjoyable chilled red table wine.

The nose on the Rolling Red is crisply pungent and evocative of the raspberries used in the production process. This sharp nose ultimately leads to a smooth, refreshing taste that is semi-sweet and not overpowering for even the most novice wine drinker. The fruity splash tingles the taste buds when chilled and is a perfect match for that late season football party.

In terms of pairing, trying complimenting the Rolling Red with spicy game day treats such a gumbo, jambalaya or buffalo wings. Additional recommendations for this sweet wine can be found in crawfish or ribs. Sugary sweets also pair well with the Rolling Red and can be refreshing when washing down cake or other heavy treats with its extraordinarily light drinking weight and taste.

The story of this central Alabama Winery is told on their website in an effort to provide a personality with the products that succeed in breaking away from the

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NOVEMBER 28+ DECEMBER 12

pack.

“Vizzini Farms Winery was founded in 2005 by Tom & Deborah Vizzina with the goal of bringing premium quality wines to Central Alabama,” the site reads. “At the time most Alabama wineries focused primarily on producing Muscadine wines, but Tom's vision included varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Chardonnay.”

The Winery also lists their winemaking philosophy, which puts the customer first and their craft “The key philosophy of the winery is to maintain the highest degree of excellence in the winemaking practice to allow the wines to fully express the various American vineyards that are their source:, the site reads. “Our goal is to provide our customers with high quality, fruit forward wines made in a manner that preserve the flavors that are naturally existent in the grapes.”

Owner Tom Vizzini is also given a bio on the website that provides customers with a glimpse into his roots as a wine maker and Alabama native.

“Born and raised in the Birmingham area, Tom developed a love for wine while helping his grandfather make wine and cheese on their family farm,” the site reads. “After many years in corporate life he decided it was time to pursue his passion and in 2005 founded Vizzini Farms.”

Vizzini farms also hosts parties and events, along with a bistro that serves tasty treats to compliment the fruits of the vine. Guaranteed to be a fun scenic experience for the wine and food lover in your life, Vizzini farms is a must for those commuting the Alabama Wine Trail.

Calera is calling!

Quick Grill 1208 University Blvd | The Strip | Tuscaloosa // 342.0022 Rama Jama’s 1000 Bryant Dr // 750.0901 Closest restaurant to Bryant-Denny Stadium.

The Brown Bag 9425 Jones Road | Northport // 333.0970 Its speciality, fried green tomatoes, joins barbecue plates and fish filets on an extended list of meats and vegetables.

Tues 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Wed-Sat 10:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

The Waysider 1512 Greensboro Ave // 345.8239 Open for breakfast and lunch. Smoke free.

MEXICAN Chipotle Mexican Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 391.0140 www.chipotle.com Don Rafa's 2313 4th Street | Temerson Square // 345.9191 El Rincon (2 locations) 1225 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa, AL // 366.0855 1726 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 330.1274 Fernando's Mexican Grill 824 McFarland Blvd E | Northport // 205.331.4587 Iguana Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 752.5895 Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill 2001 New Watermelon Rd | Northport // 342.3378 LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871 Los Calientes Mexican Grill 3429 McFarland Blvd E // 553.1558 Los Tarascos (2 locations) 1759 Skyland Blvd // 553.8896 3380 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 330.0919 Margarita's Grill 1241 McFarland Blvd E // 343.0300 Moe’s Southwest Grill (2 locations) 2330 McFarland Blvd E // 342.1487 1130 University Blvd // 752.0234 moes.com Pepito’s (2 locations) 1203 University Blvd | The Strip // 391.9028 1301 McFarland Blvd NE // 391.4861

FINE DINING

Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 248.9370 Steak, seafood, & sushi specialities. Open for dinner and Sunday brunch. Great atmosphere and excellent service.

Ladies Night on Tuesdays. Ladies receive ½ off on drinks.

Uptown Wednesday - $6 Uptown Shrimp, $8 Uptown Tacos.

Cypress Inn 501 Rice Mine Rd // 345.6963 Fax: 345.6997 | www.cypressinnrestaurant.com 2003 Restaurant of Distinction. Beautiful riverfront location.

Steaks, seafood and more with Southern flavor. Wine list, full bar. Specialities of the house include Shrimp Cypress Inn and Smoked Chicken with white barbecue sauce. Kid friendly.

Closed Saturday lunch. Mike Spiller is featured the first Thursday of every month. Happy Hour- Mon-Fri from 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. featuring 1/2 price appetizers. $2 Domestic Draft Beers and $3 Well cocktails.

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Epiphany Cafe 19 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 344.5583 “New American cuisine” with a strong emphasis on local produce, organic meats, and sustainable seafood. The menu is always changing and features include an extensive wine list, a large vibrant bar and martini lounge area, as well as patio seating. Reservations are available online at epiphanyfinedining.com or through open table. Hours: Mon–Sat 5 p.m.

- until Evangeline’s 1653 McFarland Blvd. North // 752.0830 Located in the Tuscaloosa Galleria. 2004 West Alabama Tourism Award Winning Restaurant. American Eclectic Cuisine. Lunch: Mon–Fri 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Dinner: Tues–Sat 5 p.m. - until... Fall: Saturday Brunch.

The Globe 405 23rd Avenue Owned by legendary thespian and chef, Jeff Wilson. The decor takes one back to merry old England. The food is internationally acclaimed, priced reasonably, and the service is cheerful and professional. Cocktails are excellent as are the wines. Open 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and from 5-9 pm. Tuesday through Saturday, Sunday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

FIVE Bar 2324 6th Street. // 205.345.6089 A restaurant/bar based on simplicity. We offer 5 entrees, 5 red wines, 5 white wines, 5 import beers, 5 domestic, and 5 signature cocktails, to go along with our full liquor bar.

Dinner: Sunday - Thursday 5-10; Friday and Saturday 5-12 Lunch: Friday and Saturday 11-3; Sunday Jazz Brunch: 10-3 five-bar.com; 205.345.6089 Kozy’s 3510 Loop Road E | near VA Medical Center // 556.0665 Eclectic menu, extensive wine list. Dinner at Kozy’s is a romantic experience complete with candlelight and a roaring fireplace. | www.kozysrestarant.com

JAPANESE Benkei Japanese Steak House 1223 McFarland Blvd // 759-5300 Hours: Mon–Thurs 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Fri–Sat 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Bento Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar 1306 University Blvd // 758.7426 Hokkaido Japanese Restaurant 607 15th Street Open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Ichiban Japanese Grill & Sushi 502 15th Street // 752.8844 Tokyo Japanese Steak & Sushi Bar 6521 Hwy 69 S | Hillcrest Center // 366.1177 Offers steak, seafood, tempura, teriyaki and sushi. Including cooking at your table, if you choose. Sun–Thurs 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Fri & Sat 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Kobe Steak House 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 759-1400 Lunch: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Dinner: 4:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Sat & Sun 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

ITALIAN Broadway Pizzeria 2880 Rice Mine Road Northeast Tuscaloosa, // 391.6969 DePalma’s Italian Cafe 2300 University Blvd, Downtown // 759.1879 Menu ranges from sanwiches to finer pasta dishes and pizza.

Varied beer and wine selection.

Hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Fri & Sat 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. www.depalmascafe.com Little Italy 1130 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.345.4343 Mellow Mushroom 2230 University Blvd // 758.0112 Pizzas, calzones, hoagies and more. Open daily for lunch and dinner. www.mellowmushroom.com Mr. G’s 908 McFarland Blvd N | Northport // 339-8505 Olive Garden 2100 McFarland Blvd E // 750-0321 Open daily from 11 a.m. www.olivegarden.com

CASUAL DINING Big Daddy’s Cafe 514 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 759.9925 Buddy’s Ribs & Steaks 2701 Bridge Ave | Northport // 339.4885 Buffalo Wild Wings 2710 McFarland Blvd // 523.0273 Mon–Wed 11 a.m. - midnight | Thurs–Sat 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Cafe J 2523 University Blvd // 343.0040 Chili’s 1030 Skyland Blvd | Near McFarland Mall // 750.8881 Fax: 758.7715 // www.chilis.com Dave’s Dogs 1701 McFarland Blvd E | University Mall // 722.2800 Desperados Steak House

>>> RESTAURANTS |

W here to E at in T uscaloosa ( cont . )

FIG (Food Is Good) 1351 McFarland Blvd NE // 345.8888 Mon–Fri 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Five Guys Burgers & Fries 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 391.0575 www.fiveguys.com Glory Bound Gyro Company 2325 University Blvd // 349-0505 Glory Bound Gyro Company is a unique restaurant that focuses on great food and service in a funky, fun-filled atmosphere.

Open Mon-Thu: 11am - 10pm | Fri - Sat: 11am-10pm | Sun: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Hooligan’s 1915 University Blvd // 759.2424 From hamburgers to hummus. Open daily 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Horny's 508 Red Drew Ave | Tuscaloosa // 345.6869 Mon 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. | Tues-Thurs 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Fri 11 a.m. - 3 a.m. | Sat 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.

New Orleans style atmosphere in the heart of Tuscaloosa on the strip. Horny's offerings include a full liquor bar, beer, and a variety of classic American food. Horny's Bar and Grill offers a limited late night menu from 1:30 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. So, if you're hungry after "last-call for drinks," Horny's is the place to be.

KK’s Steakhouse 13242 Hwy 69 South // 633.1032 Tacogi 500 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 342.3647 Logan's Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd E // 349.3554 Madear’s 1735 Culver Road // 343.7773 Mon–Fri 6 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 2nd & 3rd Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Mugshots Grill & Bar 511 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 391.0572 Great burgers & sandwiches. Unique setting, full service bar, veggie entrees, kid friendly, and open late www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com Newk’s Express Cafe 205 University Blvd. East // 758.2455 Fax: 758.2470 // www.newkscafe.com An express casual dining experience in a refreshing and stylish atmosphere. Serving fresh tossed salads, oven baked sandwiches, California style pizzas and homemade cakes from Newk’s open kitchen.

Sun–Wed 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Thurs–Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

O’Charley’s 3799 McFarland Blvd // 556.5143 Open daily for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch www.ocharleys.com Panera Bread 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 366.8780 www.panerabread.com Piccadilly Cafeteria 1701 McFarland Blvd E | University Mall // 556.4960 www.piccadilly.com Quick Grill 1208 University Blvd | The Strip // 342.0022 www.bamaquickgrill.com The Local Catch // 331.4496 2321 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa Full Menu including breakfast served all day.

Live Music Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - close | Sun 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

For a complete schedule http://localcatch30a.com/ Ruby Tuesday (2 locations) 6421 Interstate Drive | Cottondale // 633.3939 Just off I-20/59 at exit 77. Near Hampton Inn and Microtel Inn 311 Merchants Walk | Northport // 345.4540 www.rubytuesdays.com Ryan’s 4373 Courtney Dr // 366.1114 Near Marriott Courtyard and Fairfield Inn Sitar Indian Cuisine 500 15th St // 345-1419 Southland Restaurant 5388 Skyland Blvd E // 556.3070 Steaks, chops and home-cooked vegtables Mon–Fri 10:45 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Zoe’s Kitchen 312 Merchants Walk // 344.4450 A wonderful selection of Greek foods

SPORTS GRILL Baumhower's Wings of Tuscaloosa 500 Harper Lee Drive | catering-Pick-up Tuscaloosa // 556.5858 | Always fresh and always fun. Owned by former UA/ Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower. Kid Friendly Buffalo Phil’s 1149 University Blvd | The Strip // 758.3318 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar Buffalo Wild Wings 2710 McFarland Blvd. East | Tuscaloosa // 523.0273 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar Champs Sports Grille 320 Paul Bryant Drive | inside Four Points Sheraton Hotel // 752.3200 Breakfast and lunch buffets. Sunday brunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Hooter’s 5025 Oscar Baxter Dr | Next to Jameson Inn // 758.3035 Wings, clams, shrimp and of course the Hooters Girls www.hooters.com Innisfree Irish Pub

>>> beer review | R y a n p h i l l i p s

Delirium Tremens // IT'LL LIGHT YOUR FIRE

1925 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 345.1199 Moe's BBQ 101 15th Street | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 752.3616 Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Bar open until 2 a.m., 3 a.m. on Fridays Mugshots Grill & Bar 511 Greensboro Ave // 391.0572 Great burgers. Full service bar. Open late. www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com Wilhagan’s 2209 4th St | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 366.0913 Wings U 1800 McFarland Blvd East Suite 218 | Pick-up Tuscaloosa // 561.3984 Features the first coal-fired pizza oven in Alabama.

Owned by former UA/Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower.

Completely open concept! www.wingsu.com WingZone 1241 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 342.2473

BARBEQUE Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ 4215 Greensboro Ave | Tuscaloosa // 331.4858 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Sun lunch Bama BBQ & Grill 3380 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 333.9816 Billy's BBQ Downtown Northport 364.1400 We specialize in BBQ, fresh ground beef, poultry, and pork made fresh, served fresh. Ask about our specialty potatoes.

Mon & Tues 10-7// Wed. 10 – 5:30// Thurs, Fri, & Sat. 10 - 9 Costa's Famous BBQ and Steaks 760 Skyland Blvd // 331.4526 Dreamland (2 locations) 5535 15th Ave | Tuscaloosa // 758.8135 101 Bridge Ave | Northport // 343.6677 The legend. On game day, get there early if you want to make kickoff. Seating is limited. Hours: Mon–Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Sun 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Hick’s BBQ 4400 Fayette Hwy // 339.3678 // Tues–Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Moe's Original BBQ 2101 University Blvd.. // 752.3616 Serving up an award-winning, all things Southern BBQ and Live music experience. Come dine-in or sit on the patio and enjoy some great Que, beers, whiskey, and live music on Thursday-Saturday. Roll Tide!

Mon–Sat 11am - 10pm | Bar service Mon-Sat 2am and Fri -3am | Kitchen closes at 10pm Pottery Grill Highway 11 // 554.1815 Awesome barbecue. The Pottery Grill serves up everything from pork, chicken, ribs and sausage to burgers, hot dogs and salads. Take-out and catering available.

Tee’s Ribs and Thangs 1702 10th Avenue // 366.9974 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily

STEAKS Logan’s Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd | next to Sams // 349.3554 Steaks, ribs and spirits Longhorn Steakhouse 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 345-8244 #412 Nick's In the Sticks 4018 Culver Rd | Tuscaloosa // 758.9316 A long-time Tuscaloosa tradition.

Good steaks at a reasonable price Try a Nicodemus if you have a designated driver.

Outback Steakhouse 5001 Oscar Baxter Dr // 759.9000 Desperados 1530 McFarland Blvd. N. | Tuscaloosa // 343-1700 Sun–Wed 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Thurs–Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

SEAFOOD Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave // 248.9370 Local Catch Bar & Grill 2321 University Blvd // 205-331-4496 American, Seafood, Cajun/Creole. Coastal Cuisine with a Southern Twist!.

Monday & Wednesdays half off house wine and appetizers at happy hour Thursday ladies night 20% off ladies tabs 4pm-close Sunday half off mimosas and bloody Marys all day Lunch 11am-2pm; Dinner 11am-until Happy Hour 3pm-6pm with $5 house wine, $5 top shelf, $3 well. $1 off bottle beer Red Lobster 2620 McFarland Blvd // 553.8810 McFarland Plaza Shopping Center Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar 4851 Rice Mine Rd NE #460 // 462.3399 McFarland Plaza Shopping Center & Temerson Square Wintzell’s Oyster House 1 Bridge Ave | Northport // 247.7772 Casual riverfront dining Sun–Thurs 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Fri–Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Are you an adventurous beer drinker, looking for brews that think outside the bottle? Do you enjoy ale that is as strong as it is enjoyable to picky taste buds?

Then set down that boring old domestic beer and grab a brew guaranteed to light your fire.

The Belgian brew masters at Huyghe Brewery in Melle, Belgium, have provided an interesting take on the blond ale that is satisfyingly creative and versatile since 1989 and continue well into the 21st century. Sold in an artfully crafted ceramic bottle that is perfect for collectors, Delirium Tremens has gained popularity as a top shelf favorite as a blond ale that breaks away from tradition by sporting a rich fruitful flavor that is masked by a hearty, bitter tinge to wrap it up.

When poured into the proper drinking glass, Delirium Tremens glows beautifully with a golden hue that leads into a full, thick head. This beer has received accolades such as a 2008 award for best beer in the world at the World Beer Championships in Chicago, Ill. As you will see, it is well deserving of such a title.

The decorative bottle for this worldclass ale is illustrated with comical pictures of Pink Elephants, an image often associated with a wee bit of the consumption or a lack thereof. After all, Delirium Tremens does translate from Latin to read, “Trembling Madness” and if you are a big enough fan you may just know where this brewery is coming from.

The initial taste of this brew is one that is reminiscent of a hard cider, with a taste that evokes sharp accents of apple and cherry. However, do not let the fruity nature of this particular blond ale fool you, as a dark finish polishes off the overall drinkability of this beer and balances out the semi-sweetness. Enjoy this beer on a hot summer day, or a cool autumn evening.

Given the balanced nature of this brew, it pairs with every mood and every season.

Sporting an 8.5% ABV, this beer is also not for the faint of heart. Although Delirium Tremens is relatively light in terms of a filler quality, it is delightfully strong in alcohol content and will have you participating in the pink elephant parade

if not enjoyed in moderation. Simply put, Delirium Tremens is a high-class brew that has the strength to satisfy every palate.

For food pairing recommendations, try blackened or char-grilled dishes that highlight the fruity burst of taste from Delirium Tremens. Another possible recommendation comes in the way of thick, chocolate dishes that will bring out the irresistible dark finish on this beer. The balanced presented by Delirium Tremens provides the drinker with a treat that can pair with a variety of foods, while also holding to a strong alcohol content that leaves the drinker satisfied and loose.

On the Delirium Website, an update is provided to keep drinkers and patrons abreast of the changes at the brewery and new things that may be offered. This description backs up their award winning nature while highlight the growth that the Belgian brew masters have seen.

“In January 2012 brewery Huyghe received a medal of honour from the Province of East-Flanders, as a recognition for their merits in the region”, the site history reads. “April 2012 saw the culmination of a 7 million investment with the completion of the new brew room and new buildings.

Thanks to this investment the brew capacity increased to a maximum of 350,000 HL. Moreover, thanks to the state-of-theart brew room the brewery can save up to 10% on raw materials, 30% on water consumption and 50% on energy.”

In addition to the substantial growth seen at Delirium as a result of their increasing popularity, the trophy shelf for the brewery simply keeps expanding.

“In June, the 3D elements were added to the website, which fitted in perfectly with the world of the pink elephant,” the site reads. “In July the beers Floris Kriek and Delirium Tremens won medals at the International Beer Challenge in London. And in October Mongozo Premium Pilsener and La Guillotine won medals at the World Beer Awards.”

Delirium Tremens can be purchased at Spirits in Northport and to learn more about this imported treat, visit delirium.be.

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

11

>>> RESTAURANT REVIEW | CA R A B R A K E

HOKKAIDO // PERFECTION, JAPANESE STYLE

>>> RESTAURANTS |

W here t o E a t i n T u s c a l o o s a ( c o n t . )

CHINESE Buffet City 1747 Skyland Blvd E // 553.3308 All you can eat buffet. Open 7 days a week.

Chang’s Chinese Restaurant 1825 McFarland Blvd N // 391.9131 China Fun 2600 University Blvd | Alberta City // 553.2435 China Garden Hwy 69 S | Hillcrest Center // 758.0148 Lee Palace 6521 Highway 69 S // 391.9990 Open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Mr. Chen's Authentic Chinese Cooking & Oriental Market 514 14th St. | In the Oz Music shopping center // 343.6889 // Open Sun - Thu 11am - 9pm, Fri & Sat 11am - 9:30pm Pearl Garden 2719 Lurleen Wallace Blvd | Northport // 339.0880 Peking Chinese Restaurant 1816 McFarland | Northport // 333.0361 Open 7 days a week. Super lunch and dinner buffet.

Hours: Sun–Thurs 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. | Fri & Sat 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Swen Chinese Restaurant 1130 University Blvd | The Strip // 391.9887 Trey Yuen 4200 McFarland Blvd E // 752.0088

O ne thing Tuscaloosa can pride itself on, besides football, is its diverse dining life. Pizza, sandwiches, and seafood restaurants are dotted all over town. The other type of cuisine here is Asian and Asian-American food, everything from Thai food to hibachi grills.

One such place, Hokkaido Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar, started its life here in Tuscaloosa on February 28th, 2006 on 15th Street. A short 5 years later, however, the restaurant was destroyed from roof to foundation in the 2011 tornado that tore Tuscaloosa apart, along with so many other businesses. The storm was devastating, and after the damage was done, there was nothing left of the once proud building.

That didn’t stop the owners, Charlie Lao, Sam Liew and Simon Chow, from pushing on. Just last year on September 7th, Hokkaido reopened its doors on 15th street, just across the street from its old location. The rubble from the lost building has been cleared, but upon entering the waiting area of the restaurant, picture frames hang on the wall with photos of the old restaurant, the destruction after the tornado, and the rebuild. The look of the restaurant remains the same, with wood paneling in the foyer, a full bar to the right, and seating all around the building.

A small waiting area is set up to allow customers waiting to be seated or picking up to-go orders to sit comfortably while they wait. Hostesses great the customer as soon as they walk in, ready with take out menus or seating charts. The bar shares a corner for the order section for take out, and the bar is backlit with color changing lights, giving it a creative look. One of the biggest highlights is the hibachi grill, where fresh poultry, pork and seafood are cooked to perfection by the skilled chefs that run it. The sushi bar is also a highlight, with several different kinds of rolls, including the school-spirited Roll Tide Roll, and the aptly named 15th Street Roll.

The eatery serves appetizers, entrees, sides, and has a lunch menu from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with 25 entrees, 19

from the grill, and 6 featured in a bento box, or a Japanese lunch box. The bento lunches come with an entree, a salad, a dumpling, fried rice, and a spring roll.

The grill entrees are served with a soup or salad, fried rice, and grilled vegetables. The lunch menu also as a small sushi selection, featuring a sushi combo containing a California roll and five pieces of the chef’s selection, or the Maki Sushi combo containing a California roll, cucumber roll, and a tuna roll.

The full menu is more extensive, including dessert selections, appetizers, single entrees, combinations, a kids menu, and side orders. For anyone celebrating their birthday, Hokkaido offers a special birthday dessert, which includes the dessert, chopsticks, and a special song from the staff. The price is great too, with entrees ranging from $16 to $24, and appetizers ranging from $3 to $6. Along with soda and tea, they serve a full bar, including a wine selection.

The restaurant recently celebrated a one year anniversary, holding a celebration on September 5th featuring 95.3 The Bear, giveaways, food and fun. The celebration was a success, and pictures on their Facebook page document the party.

Hokkaido Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar is open at 607 15th Street, next to Taco Casa. It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Find them on Facebook at facebook.com/HokkaidoTuscaloosa or on their website, hokkaidorestaurant.net.

TASTY FOOD AND BRILLIANT BREWS

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

ASIAN CUISINE Ruan Thai 1407 University Blvd // 391.9973 ruanthaituscaloosa.com Exotic Thai cuisine. Offers vegetarian options, outdoor dining, and a full bar. Sushi on Thursdays.

Lunch: Mon–Sat 11 a.m. -2 p.m. | Dinner: Mon–Thurs 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Fri & Sat 5 p.m. -10pm | Sun 11 a.m. -3 p.m.

Surin of Thailand 1402 University Blvd // 752.7970 Authentic Thai restaurant and sushi bar. Open daily.

Lunch: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Dinner: 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. www.surinofthailand.com

PIZZA AND SUBS A Taste Of Chicago 1700 Greensboro Avenue 205-342-DOGS Mon. - Thurs. 10:00am - 9:00pm; Fri. - Sat. 10:00am - 10:00pm 17th Street and Greensboro Avenue. Authentic Chicago style foods with a taste of Chi-Town in every bite. Italian Beef Sandwiches, Chicago Rib Tips, and Chicago Style Pizza.View our menu online and order at CRIMSON2GO.COM. Follow us @ TasteofChicagoTtown on Instagram.

Firehouse Subs 1130 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 248.0680 Hungry Howie’s (2 locations) 1105 Southview Ln | South Tuscaloosa // 345.6000 1844 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 333.2633 1211 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa | The Strip // 366.1500 4851 Rice Mine Rd | Northriver/Holt // 345.3737 Lenny’s Sub Shop 220 15th St // 752.7450 Fax: 752.7481 // www.lennys.com Little Caesars Pizza 1414 10th Ave // 366.2220 www.littlecaesars.com Little Italy 1130 University Blvd. // 345.4354 Mellow Mushroom 2230 University Blvd | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 758.0112 Subs n' You 2427 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.758.0088 Roly Poly Sandwiches 2300 4th Street | Tuscaloosa // 366.1222 The Pita Pit 1207 University Blvd | The Strip // 345.9606 Hours: Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m. - 3:00 a.m. | Sun 11:30 a.m. - midnight

McAlister’s Deli (2 locations) 101 15th St | Tuscaloosa // 758.0039 3021 Tyler Dr | Northport // 330.7940 Sandwiches, salads and spuds www.mcalistersdeli.com Momma Goldberg’s Deli 409 23rd Ave // 345.5501 www.mommagoldbergs.com Newk's 205 University Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 758.2455 Schlotsky’s Deli 405 15th St. E // 759.1975 schlotskys.com Which Wich University Blvd.// Downtown Tuscaloosa // Mon – Sat 10:30 – 9 // Sunday 11 – 7 // Fun atmosphere,fresh ingredients, great sandwiches. 764.1673

COFFEE SHOP Chloe's Cup 2117 University Blvd.| Tuscaloosa // 764.0218 Crimson Cafe International Coffee House & Gourmet Deli 1301 University Blvd | The Strip // 750.0203 Mon–Fri 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. | Sat & Sun 8 a.m. - 11 p.m. thecrimsoncafe.com Five Java Coffee, fresh juices, smoothies and treats from Mary's Cakes.

Open Monday - Saturday at 7am; 9am on Sundays Heritage House 18 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 758.0042 Krispy Kreme Doughnut 1400 McFarland Blvd // 758.6913 www.krispykreme.com Starbucks (2 locations) 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 343.2468 1901 13th Ave East | inside Super Target // 462.1064 starbucks.com

DESSERTS Celebrations Bakery, Inc. 1832 McFarland Blvd N | Northport // 339.3221 Fax: 349.1945 Cold Stone Creamery 1130 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa //343.1670 www.coldstonecreamery.com Specializes in customized ice cream Hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Fri & Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sun 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Mary's Cakes & Pastries 412 22nd Avenue | behind Opus | Northport // 345.8610 www.maryscakesandpastries.com Mon–Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Sat 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Smoothie King (2 locations) 415 15th Street | Tuscaloosa // 349.1721 Fax: 349.1945 1403 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 462.3664 Sweet CeCe's Frozen yogurt Treats 2217 University Blvd. | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 561.6458 A fun and friendly make your own creation, yogurt experience!

TCBY (3 Locations) 2304 Mcfarland Blbd | Meadowbrook Shopping Center // 349.4661 // 2 Mcfarland Blvd | Northport | Essex Shopping Center // 758.6855 // 1130 Univ. Blvd. | The Strip // 345.0804 Yogurt Lab 920 Paul W. Bryant Dr Ste 200 | Tuscaloosa // 347.9522 Yogurt Mountain 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 342.1484 Self-serve frozen yogurt experience Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. | Fri & Sat 11 a.m. - midnight

TO HAVE YOUR RESTAURANT LISTED HERE PLEASE EMAIL PLANETEDITOR@YAHOO.COM

Tut’s Place 1306 University Blvd | The Strip // 759.1004

DELICATESSEN Honeybaked Ham Company 421 15th St. E // 345.5508 www.honeybaked.com Jason’s Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd // 752.6192 Fax: 752.6193 // www.jasonsdeli.com Located in the Meadowbrook Shopping Center.

Jimmy John’s (3 locations) 1400 University Blvd | The Strip // 366.3699 1875 McFarland Blvd N | Northport // 752.7714 815 Lurleen B. Wallace S | Tuscaloosa // 722.2268 Delivery 7 days a week. www.jimmyjohns.com Manna Grocery & Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 752.9955

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

>>> E X P O S é | R A C H E L A H R N S E N

MAN VS. MACHINE // CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

largest number of members in the United ning for mayor in 2005. “You could say States, a fluctuating 30% of the student that a local university student group had body. endorsed my opponent... my election The important question is why a came down to standing on fraternity and minority of 30% has been able to control sorority row.” campus for decades. The overwhelming Machine candidates often go far answer is decades of enforced apathy, beyond local government, reaching what Back calls an,“active participation in up to the national political level, with a culture of silence.”

SGA as their train“I always woning ground. Some "Nothing will dered, ‘if no one alleged Machine change if students cares, then why are members include two they [the Machine] legendary senators, continue to focus on trying so hard to have Lister Hill and John the Machine’s power, complete control?’

Sparkman, as well as instead of their own." senior Senator RichI came up with two answers. One, there’s ard Shelby. There so much more they control that we don’t have been only seven non-Machine SGA know about. Or, two, that the reason no presidents. One of the most notable is one cares is because of the Machine.

Cleo Thomas, who was elected in 1976 People keep talking about campus and remains the only African-American apathy, well, that’s SGA president. the reason. It’s “It continues not even worth to be a lingerit to click on the ing distinction, myBama login to unfortunately. A vote.”

Halley’s comet The Machine’s non-recurrence, a growing influence historical curiosity.” became apparThomas said. ent on Nov. 13, Thomas said when Judge a likely reason Roberts deemed for the Machine’s only 70 votes, success is that it ‘potentially illegal,’ provides training, ruling against Kelly campaign help, Horwitz in her and funds for canchallenge of the didates. “There’s controversial Disno resource like trict 4 school board that for indepenrace results. She dent candidates,” ran against former Thomas said.

SGA President Cason Kirby. Horwitz Thomas says he did not face Machine challenged the votes based on charges of intimidation when he ran, but, “a kind of voter fraud, intimidation, and bribery. hysterical approach, a bizarre Fox News Back says, “This ruling has confirmed misstatement of reality characterized the everything they believe about themselves. era. For example, they [other students] That they are above the law.” would ask me questions like, ‘Cleo, why The Machine has intervened in the did you start that riot?’ But it wasn’t a riot, community of Tuscaloosa before. In 1989, it was a protest march.” they began a fierce boycott against Bama “There was a cross burned after the Bino’s pizzeria, owned by Francis Viselli. election, I believe. There was frustration His son, Joey, was a fierce competitor that they didn’t win.” Thomas said that for the SGA presidency. A year after the he did not face hostility from other SGA Machine boycott, Bama Bino’s had lost members. “In that era, there was a sense $400,000 worth of business, according to of community. All of us were working toreporter Kevin Stoker of The Mobile Regwards the advancement of the university.” ister. Bama Bino closed its doors in 1993.

Thomas says that the current apathy On November 19, UA’s Honors Colin the student body, “is rational, though lege hosted a Town Hall to improve mildly depressing,” and that nothing will university and community relations, in change if students continue to focus on which UA President Dr. Judy Bonner and the Machine’s power, instead of their own.

Mayor Walt Maddox were scheduled to “If I could do it over again, I’d go to answer questions. After a spokeswoman Alabama. I love it. But you don’t love it unannounced Dr. Bonner was unable to critically. Love makes you want to correct come due to an unnamed family crisis, a person or a place, to see it live up to its community member’s eyebrows rose highest potential. That’s what we should in a simultaneous wave as they quietly all try to do.” crumpled note cards with questions for The political machine triumphs Dr. Bonner. because it is a united minority acting When questioned about the alleged against a divided [or apathetic] majority.

Machine involvement in the school board ~ Will Durant ~ election, Mayor Maddox referenced run-

>>> T H A N K S G I V U K K A H | R AC H E L A H R NS E N

TWO HOLIDAYS CONVERGE // NEXT EVENT IS 77,798 YEARS FROM NOW

On November 28, many Jewish families’ homes will be filled with the smells of pumpkin kugel, challah apple stuffing, and latkes with cranberry applesauce. These are the newly invented foods for a holiday that will not happen again until 79811 AD: Thanksgivukkah. “Thanksgivukkah,” is the moniker given to the convergence of the Jewish holiday of Chanukah with Thanksgiving on Nov. 28.

“The Jewish holidays fall out in ac-

cordance with the Hebrew calendar, which is a lunar calendar. The holiday then falls out at the same time every year but moves around on the Gregorian calendar,” explains Alabama resident Ben Flax.

Because the calendars are not calculated the same way, Chanukah starts on a different day each year on the Gregorian calendar.

Pop culture has latched onto the phenomenon. Donors have funded an online Kickstarter campaign to make turkey-shaped menorahs. In New York City, Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade will include a giant dreidel. Even the popular website Buzzfeed posted an article entitled, "How to Celebrate Thanksgivukkah, the Best Holiday of All Time."

Flax is looking forward to the occasion. “I’m excited to celebrate Thanksgivukkah, as it will not occur in almost 80,000 years. We will light the Chanukah menorah for the first time on Thanksgiving night, and we might try some crossed dishes, like sweet potato latkes.”

Though some feel that Thanksgivvukah trivializes both holidays, many Jewish people see similarities between the two. “There aren't many historical similarities. I feel, however, they both are holidays with big meals, family, being thankful, and celebration,” Flax says.

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

13

>>> THE FLAT SCREEN | W ILLIAM B A R S H OP

REALITY SHOW STARS TUSCALOOSA BACHELORETTE // AND 22 SUITORS

If you think one blind date is difficult, try 22 at once. On this season of CMT’s Sweet Home Alabama, Tuscaloosa’s own Kelsey Smith will narrow down the bachelors one-by-one until she finally picks one to saddle up with.

Smith hosted a premier party at Bob’s Victory Grille on the night of the first episode, and welcomed fans of the show to watch as the 22 men moved into a house in Fairhope Ala. to court Smith in hopes of being chosen as her one, true love.

Smith is a student at Shelton State Community College studying to be an elementary school teacher, a fan of SEC football and NASCAR, and a self-described Southern belle.

“I'm definitely a Southern gal, I fit right into that,” Smith said. “From sweet tea to fried food, anything Southern.”

Now that the show’s finale has been filmed, Smith’s main job is not letting anyone know which man she chose. Family members and friends have all put in their guesses, but Smith won’t say a word.

“It's hard because every girl talks about their guy!” Smith said. “He has a secret name in my phone, and we FaceTime every day. We're just waiting to go out to eat in public.”

To set up the challenge for Smith of finding the perfect man, the producers of the show had to find 22 viable partners from all over the U.S., looking for “country boys” as well as “city slickers.” Executive producer Julia Silverton said they found an authentic, attractive and fun group of guys.

“Ah, the search for suitors. It was intense,” Silverton said. “We scoured cities in the north as well as towns throughout the south to find the perfect mix of guys to vie for Kelsey’s heart.”

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Smith said one of the biggest challenges for her was deciding whether to stick with someone from down South, or to see what it’s like to date someone from the big city.

“Honestly I've never had a type. I've never dated a city guy though,” Smith said. “But I could picture myself with one.”

Silverton said that decision Smith struggles to make is one of the biggest draws of this season.

“She’s always wondered whether she should stick to her roots and find a country boy to settle down with, or if she should spread her wings, date a city guy and see how she likes it,” Silverton said. “So 11 country and 11 city boys will try to win her over, but what I like about Kelsey is that she’s no pushover.

She keeps them on their toes as she makes up her mind.”

Smith’s mother, Amy McCool, said seeing her daughter meet her suitors on TV was strange, but not as uncomfortable as she expected. She said Kelsey’s father is the one who might want to look away at some of the more romantic parts of the show “It’s been crazy, seeing her on commercials has been unreal,” McCool said. “On the first episode I cried like a baby, I’m glad I watched it by myself.”

McCool said of all the reality shows on TV, she felt the safest with her daughter being on Sweet Home Alabama, because she knew the show wouldn’t make a spectacle of her Southern upbringing. She also said Kelsey had the right personality to be up front with the bachelors about how she felt.

“She is what she is, you don’t

have to guess,” McCool said. “There’s something about her. She has a great personality, she’s got a shine about her.”

Of course, while romance is at the center of Sweet Home Alabama, the staple of so many reality shows is conflict between the contestants, and Silverton said there was plenty of tension as the competition went on.

“We have some of the most outspoken guys ever so there’s no shortage of conflict…or jealousy,” Silverton said, “In fact, one guy takes it overboard this season and the consequences are dire.”

Neither Silverton nor Smith said just what the contestant did out of jealousy, or if he was able to stay on the show.

Smith said the disagreements between

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the men were mostly hidden from her, but she could tell when something was up.

“Of course there's drama, testosterone flying,” Smith said. “I didn't know about any of the drama except when one of the guys would tell me. Other than hearsay I didn't see it happening.”

On the first episode, Kelsey hosted a tailgate party on the ranch and met with each of the contestants one-on-one for a few minutes. At the end of the night she sent two of them home, one “city slicker” and one “country boy.”

The first to be sent home was Anthony Marks, who arrived at Fairhope wearing a tee shirt supporting Barack Obama, whom he helped campaign for in 2012 as a political organizer. Kelsey told him she respected his opinions, but, in this case, opposites did not attract.

The country boy Kelsey sent home was Jason Johnson, a lumberjack from Lawrenceville, Ga. In his first meeting with Kelsey he brought his pet raccoon, Mika, and invited Kelsey to let it climb on her shoulder. Kelsey politely told Jason she didn’t think they would be a good match.

Still remaining are Alex Stein, a car salesman from Los Angeles who has already antagonized several of the Southern gentlemen about their dress and mannerisms, Jeremy Pestor who described himself as a 31-year-old virgin, and Collin Varallo, a Birmingham landscaper some may recognize from the first season of Sweet Home Alabama.

In the coming episodes, Smith will get to know the remaining contestants on dates and situations set up by the show.

While going through so many dates was definitely a wild ride, Smith said she was glad she took on the role of the Southern sweetheart bachelorette.

“I wasn't necessarily looking for the love of my life, but the guy I found might be the one,” Smith said. “I think people will be surprised who I choose.”

>>>F E S T I V I T I E S | CA R A B R A K E

DICKENS DOWNTOWN // PLENTY OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Starting the day after Thanksgiving, the feeling of Christmas is everywheregarland is strung on everything that will stand still, and homes and streets are lit up for miles. For some people, namely in the south, it can be hard to feel the Christmas spirit because of the lack of snow and bare trees. That doesn’t mean that we have to miss out on Christmas festivities, however.

The Northport Merchants Association is hosting a Northport/Tuscaloosa tradition, Dickens Downtown, held in historic Downtown Northport.

Featuring different shops in downtown, each holding its own small event, and locals in Dickens-style garb, Dickens Downtown promises to be interactive fun for all ages.

Santa makes an appearance, along with Mrs. Claus. Merchant shops aren’t the only ones that participate, however. Vendors offer peanuts to passing festival goers, and bakeries offer snacks that are Christmas themed.

The attractions and snacks aren’t the only appeal. Parents would find the Dickens-style costumes to be an interesting educational tool for kids, showing what it looked like to dress in the story.Ladies in full skirts, a few people even donning bonnets, pass out information on different organizations and events.

"We have different costumes,” says Northport 5 & 10 owner Joe Hardy. “A lot of the merchants do have costumes that we use, and sometimes we change up on what we wear. But a lot of us, since it's only once a year, have our standard costumes."

With something of this magnitude taking up an entire street in Northport, one would think that it would take months of preparation, but 24 years into presenting this, it’s just like a morning routine. Cutting greenery and decorating the entire street does take time, yet the experience is less stressful thanks to the practiced hands of the volunteers and association members.

"We've done it so many years that we know the pattern,” said Hardy. "We have to wait close to the day to cut our greenery so it'll last, but we know a lot of the process that we have to do."

“Every business does their own decorating,” said Emily Wolfe Leigh, the assistant director of Kentuck, making this a community project. “Our main focus is having the demo artists.”

The artist lineup for this year is as follows: potter Kerry Kennedy, blacksmith Steve Davis, ceramicist Daniel Livingston, toy maker Larry Glover, broom maker George Jones, Jr, and the West AL Fiber Guild.

Decorating and costuming isn’t just work, it’s also enjoyable for the members.

“I do love to wear costumes and this is the one time a year I can wear a costume on the job. I don't have to be in a production or at a costume party, just going about my regular business, but wearing a bustle.”

Entertainment is never an issue. Both hired bands and school choirs grace the streets of Northport. "We have different musical entertainment and we try to coordinate based on the business, or if they have certain requests,” commented Hardy. “Some of the schools will come down and sing, and we place them on different corners of the street."

All of the shops stay open for business, allowing customers to browse the shops for business the next day. While it helps business, no one has to worry about having plenty of people at the event. One of the most popular events of the season, popularity and excitement begins early in the fall and winter season.

"I usually have people ask me in advance when it is, because it's something that helps start their Christmas season,” said Hardy. “It's always the first Tuesday night in December."

Another exciting thing about Dickens?

The snow! A snow machine near a lamp post allows kids and adults to play in the snow, turning Main street into a winter wonderland for all.

This year will feature a horse drawn carriage, Father Christmas, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the snow machine. Also, Theatre Tuscaloosa will be performing skits from A Christmas Carol, and music from the 5th Alabama Regimental Band. There will also be free hot apple cider served all night to warm hands and hearts.

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

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>>> EVENTS CALENDAR |

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28

AMERICANLUNCH CHARITY FEAST WHEN: 11 a.m. – 3p.m.

WHERE: Chuck's Fish COST: No charge – Donations welcome LINK: chucksfish.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE WHEN: 2 – 5 p.m.

WHERE: 5 locations; see below LINK: historictuscaloosa.org CONTACT: lucymurphy, 205.752.1998 DESCRIPTION: The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, the Old Tavern, the Battle-Friedman House, the McGuire-Strickland House (The Capitol School) and the Murphy African American Museum will be full of the sights, sounds, and tastes of the holidays. Special Hanukah foods will be served at the Battle-Friedman House provided by Bama Hillel with music by the T-Town Strummers. Father Christmas will be at the Old Tavern welcoming visitors while the Victorian Carolers sing carols of long ago. Period decorations will grace the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion and violins, hand bells, and carols will be shared by Capitol School students. Visit the Murphy African American Museum and see the most modern of the Preservation Society’s homes (built in 1923) decorated for the holidays. Complete the afternoon by taking a ride in Mallisham’s Glass Slipper Carriage! Admission is free at each location.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2

THE FORGOTTEN CAROLS WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: $22; $18 seniors; $14 students & children WHERE: Bean-Brown Theatre CONTACT: 205.391.2277 LINK: theatretusc.com DESCRIPTION: Professional actors joined by community choirs and singers.

The heartwarming story of Constance, a rigid nurse, and John, a very unusual patient. Theatre Tuscaloosa is partnering with the Community Soup Bowl to give back this holiday season. Audience members are encouraged to bring a cannedfood donation to any performance of The Forgotten Carols and Theatre Tuscaloosa will exchange it for a coupon good for $2 off tickets to any future 2013-14 Season production.

HOMEWORK HELP WHEN: 3 - 5 p.m.

WHERE: Tuscaloosa Public Library, Weaver Bolton Branch COST: Free CONTACT: 205.345.5820 DESCRIPTION: Provides one-on-one homework assistance to students K-8th grade. It is a drop-in service; students may come and go at any time during session and must have homework with them in order to attend. This is a Monday through Thursday activity.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 DICKENS DOWNTOWN WHEN: 5 – 8 p.m.

WHERE: Historic Downtown Northport

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T H E SOUT H E AST ' S LA R G E ST

COST: Free CONTACT: 205.792.3944 DESCRIPTION: Shops and galleries will be open. Old fashioned Christmas is celebrated with street performers, music, and refreshments.

THE FORGOTTEN CAROLS WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: $22; $18 seniors; $14 students & children WHERE: Bean-Brown Theatre CONTACT: 205.391.2277 LINK: theatretusc.com DESCRIPTION: Professional actors joined by community choirs and singers.

The heartwarming story of Constance, a rigid nurse, and John, a very unusual patient. Theatre Tuscaloosa is partnering with the Community Soup Bowl to give back this holiday season. Audience members are encouraged to bring a cannedfood donation to any performance of The Forgotten Carols and Theatre Tuscaloosa will exchange it for a coupon good for $2 off tickets to any future 2013-14 Season production.

TEMPORARY EMERGENCY SERVICES (TES) CHARITY FISH FRY WHEN: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

COST: Sandwiches $5—pre-order WHERE: 1705 15th Street EMAIL: tesscosby1@bellsouth.net PHONE: 205.758.5535 "CAN'T FIT IT ALL IN YOUR TRUNK" WHEN: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COST: Donations WHERE: 1705 15th Street DESCRIPTION: TES is holding a twoday donation drive. Bring canned goods, clothes, furniture, etc. Make someone's holiday even better. TES of Tuscaloosa County helps individuals and families in crisis situations by providing financial and other temporary assistance.

PRE-SCHOOL STORY TIME WHEN: 10 – 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Tuscaloosa Public Library, Story Castle COST: Free (age 3 - 5) CONTACT: 205.391.9989 EMAIL: childrens@tuscaloosa-library.org DESCRIPTION: Simple stories, songs, activities and crafts.

BOOK DISCUSSION // "UNBROKEN" WHEN: 10 – 11 a.m.

COST: Free WHERE: Library, main branch LINK: tuscaloosa-library.org

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4 HOMEWORK HELP WHEN: 3 - 5 p.m.

WHERE: Tuscaloosa Public Library, Weaver Branch COST: Free CONTACT: 205.345.5820 DESCRIPTION: Provides one-on-one homework assistance to students K-8th grade. It is a drop-in service; students may come and go at any time during session and must have homework with them in order to attend. This is a Monday

>>> PET PLANET | T H I S M O N T H ' S P E T S

TABITHA, JENNY & MAX // RESCUE THEM // AND BE THANKFUL Meet Tabitha, a five month old female Labrador/ Retriever mix with a pretty white and golden yellow smooth coat. Tabitha is all legs right now and weighs only 21 pounds but will likely grow to around 40 or 50 pounds. She is a very sweet yet somewhat timid dog.

She is friendly and playful and should be fine with other dogs. She should be great with children though she is still a bit jumpy so she would better with older children or those already used to larger dogs. Tabitha will required a fenced in yard if left outside unattended. Like any other puppy Tabitha will need training and structure to help her develop into a well-mannered adult dog. She is in the process of crate training and is up to date on her vet care. She is heartworm negative, microchipped and will be spayed prior to adoption. If you are interested in giving Tabitha the forever home she wants and deserves just before the holidays, visit the West Alabama Humane Society at 205.554.0011 or visit them on line at humanesocietyofwa.org.

Meet Jenny, a short-haired female with a beautiful gray and white coat. Jenny is approximately two and-a-half years old and was rescued along with her litter mates in a tornado-damaged area of Tuscaloosa following the April 27th tornadoes. Jenny is very sweet and affectionate. She is calm, gentle, and generally low-energy. She should do well around children who can handle her gently. Jenny is used to being around other cats but has never met a dog. She is up to date on her vet care, spayed and negative for FIV/FeLK. If you are interested in adopting Jenny, contact the West Alabama Humane Society by calling 205.554.0011 or visit them on line at humanesocietyofwa.org.

I’m Max, a male orange and white short-haired tabby. I am about one or two years-old. I’m a super sweet companion to my human friends and I love to play games! However, I don’t quite know what to make of other cats; I tolerate feline companions, though I’m not overly friendly with them, and I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t like a dog at all! I’m on the prowl for a forever family who can give me a spot in their home and heart!

If you are interested in giving me my forever home, call my friends and caretakers at the West Alabama Humane Society at 205. 554.0011 or visit them on line at humanesocietyofwa.org.

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

>>> HOLIDAY EVENT | R E G G I E A L L E N

MOVING FORWARD TO THE PAST // PRESERVATION SOCIETY’S CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE With the holiday season upon us, the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society gives us the best of both worlds; inviting people from the present to experience Christmas time in the past.

With their annual Christmas Open House, the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society gives the residents of Tuscaloosa an opportunity to tour five historic locations: Battle Friedman House and Gardens, Jemison Van de Graaf Mansion, Old Tavern, The Murphy-Collins African American Museum and the McGuire Strickland House. All buildings are decorated with period specific props and plants to simulate what Christmas looked like in the Victorian style homes of the 1800s during the Christmas season.

Historic buildings like McGuire Strickland, one of the few antebellums left in T- town, are available to be toured while enjoying a cup of warm cider and listening to Christmas carols.

“People can drop in and visit any of those venues that they would like,” Special Event Coordinator, Lucy Murphy, said.

“They don’t have to visit all five, but if they choose to visit all five, they can. We will have refreshments at every site and people can drop in and listen to the entertainment and move on to the next house and view their decorations.”

With the voluntary aid of the Tuscaloosa Garden Club, Greensboro Gardens Club, Coker Garden club and the Ceres Garden club, all houses are decorated with the many plants that were found in the homes of the specific eras.

“They have done their homework,” Murphy said. They know what Victorian means and know what is period specific, and that is the way they have decorated them. Everything is all natural. They didn’t have Christmas lights in 1827. They didn’t have perfectly round balls in 1827. They used pinecones and peacock feathers for decorations.”

Aside from refreshments, each building is equipped with its own individual entertainment. Entertainment includes the T-Town Strummers, Victorian Carolers, Tuscaloosa Belle Musicians, the Capitol School hand bells group as well as a visit from Father Christmas. In addition, the entertainment one of the buildings, McGuire Strickland will feature an exhibit of Christmas trees done by the students from the Capitol School. The trees will represent different nations around the world.

When attendees are not touring the buildings, Mallisham’s Glass Slipper Carriage Tours will be offering free horsedrawn carriage rides in their Christmas carriage. The Carriage will ride along the route of the historic buildings throughout the duration of the open house.

>>> EVENTS CALENDAR | (cont'd)

through Thursday activity.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 "THE NUTCRACKER" WHEN: 7 – 9 p.m.

WHERE: Bama Theatre LINK: tuscarts.org

ART NIGHT WHEN: 5 – 8 P.M. COST: Free WHERE: Historic Downtown Northport DESCRIPTION: Come for a festive evening in downtown Northport. Galleries and shops will be open, free snacks and refreshments, live music.

Toddler Time WHEN: 10 – 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Tuscaloosa Public Library Story Castle COST: Free - ages 2 - 3 year-olds EMAIL: seymour.emily@gmail.com LINK: tuscaloosa-library.org/calendar-ofevents DESCRIPTION: Stories, songs, activities and crafts.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 Murphy believes that the open house has a dual purpose of not just kicking off the holiday season, but informing Tuscaloosa residents on the need for preservation of what remains from the past.

“It’s historic in nature, in that all the buildings are very old. It gives people an opportunity to visit as well experience the Christmas decorations. It is a great opportunity to come and see the Battle Friedman or the Jemison if they never saw it before. It is just another opportunity to get people involved in preservation and see what we still have in Tuscaloosa and to learn about the families that once occupied these homes.”

Murphy said the open house is one of the best advantages that the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society has to offer. While the historic buildings are open throughout the year, depending on the time of the year, many of the tours have a nominal price to help absorb the expenses of upkeep.

“It’s December first,” Murphy said. I can’t think of a better way to kick off the Christmas season than to appreciate what ‘s been done in the past and looking forward to what can be done in the future.”

The open house will be from 2- 5 p.m on December 1 and will be free to the public.

T H E SOUT H E AST ' S LA R G E ST

"THE NUTCRACKER" WHEN: 7 – 9 p.m.

WHERE: Bama Theatre LINK: tuscarts.org

LOCAL ARTIST TONY BRATINA WHEN: 9 a.m. – noon COST: Free WHERE: Cultural Arts Center LINK: tuscarts.org PHONE: 205.758.5195, ext. 6 DESCRIPTION: Tuscaloosa News graphic artist, Tony Bratina, explores the traditions of Christmas around the world, past and present, in this one-of-a-kind art exhibit on display from December 6 – 27 in the Arts Council gallery at the Cultural Arts Center.

FIRST FRIDAY WHEN: 5 – 9 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: Downtown Tuscaloosa CONTACT: tuscarts.org/artnight.php DESCRIPTION: Local galleries and artists are featured in a downtown-wide open house.

READERS' THEATER FOR CHILDREN WHEN: 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Tuscaloosa Public Library main branch Story Castle COST: Free CONTACT: 205.345.5820, ext. 1134 EMAIL: childrens@tuscaloosa-library.org DESCRIPTION: Fun, interactive story time where children listen to a story, think and ask questions about the story, and then become a part of the story by acting it out with their friends. This activity is also held the first Saturday of each month in the Story Castle at 10:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 CLAY CO-OP HOLIDAY SALE WHEN: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: Kentuck Courtyard of Wonders DESCRIPTION: Clay Co-op members will

sell their functional and decorative works at 15% off.

CANDYLAND BREAKFAST & DANCE WHEN: 8 a.m. – noon COST: Prepaid reservation required WHERE: Children's Hands-On Museum PHONE: 205.349.4235, ext. 24 EMAIL: carla@chomonline.org (ask them why they don't show prices on their website) "THE NUTCRACKER" WHEN: 7 – 9 p.m.

WHERE: Bama Theatre LINK: tuscarts.org HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE WHEN: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: Kentuck Gallery Shop LINK: kentuck.org DESCRIPTION: 15% discounts off all purchases. One-of-a-kind gifts.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 "THE NUTCRACKER" WHEN: 2 – 4 p.m.

WHERE: Bama Theatre LINK: tuscarts.org

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9

WEST ALABAMA CHRISTMAS PARADE WHEN: 5 – 8 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: Downtown T-Town (Greensboro Ave. at University Blvd.

LINK: tcpara.org DESCRIPTION: 38th annual Christmas parade. Tree lighting ceremony on the steps of the County Courthouse at 5:15 p.m. The parade starts at 6:30.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 IT'S ORNAMENTAL WHEN: 7 – 9 p.m.

COST: $15 prior to event; $20 at door WHERE: Jemison-Van de Graaf Mansion PHONE: 205.758.0808 DESCRIPTION: The first "It's Ornamental" Christmas silent auction. Original hand-painted decorated ornaments by well known local artists. All proceds will benefit Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 RIBBON CUTTING GRAND OPENING OF THE BLACK WARRIOR BREWING CO. WHEN: 4 – 5 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: 2216 University Blvd.

CONTACT: Joe Fuller EMAIL: joe.fuller@us.michelin.com PUBLICIZE YOUR NONPROFIT EVENT. CONTACT

planeteditor@yahoo.com

Happy Holiday Season

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

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>>> ROAD TRIP | SOUT H E AST E R N CONC E R TS AN D E V E NTS

A // YANNI // ATLANTA // M // NOVEMBER 30

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY // BIRMINGHAM // OCTOBER 25

ETTA MAY // B'HAM //

fun. // OCTOBER 22 // ATLANTA

DECEMBER 3

MARTINA MCBRIDE // NASHVILLE //

// NASHVILLE // OCTOBER 24 SHUGGIE OTIS DECEMBER 4

THURSday, NOVEMBER 28 MONDAY, DECEMBER 2

BIRMINGHAM MissUsed, Tin Roof

BIRMINGHAM Icona Pop, WorkPlay Theater

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29

NASHVILLE Keb’ Mo’, Mansion at Fontanel The Time Jumpers, 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill

Birmingham Taylor Hollingsworth, The Nick

NEW ORLEANS Magnetic Ear, Gasa Gasa

Montgomery MissUsed, War Eagle Supper Club

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3

ATLANTA Moon Taxi, Buckhead Theater Amos Lee, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Blackberry Smoke, Tabernacle Tyler Farr, Wild Bill’s

ATLANTA Chris Cornell, Center Stage

NASHVILLE Casting Crowns, Bridgestone Arena Gabe Dixon, 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill

BIRMINGHAM Etta May, Comedy Club Stardome

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

NEW ORLEANS Mark and the Pentones, Funky Pirate

saturday, NOVEMBER 30

ATLANTA Yanni, Fabulous Fox Theater Shawn Mullins, Variety Playhouse BIRMINGHAM Veil of Maya, Zydeco

MONTGOMERY Velcro Pygmies, War Eagle Supper Club Punk DJs, Rokcotlan NEW ORLEANS Eric Lindell, Tiptina’s

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

MONTGOMERY

Joey Gilmore, Capitol Oyster Bar Birmingham Jaheim, BJCC ATLANTA Fates Warning, The Masquerade NEW ORLEANS Third Eye Blind, House of Blues

Montgomery Nora Jane Struthers & The Party Line, Alley Bar King David, The Mansion ATLANTA Monster Magnet, The Masquerade Jason Isbell, Buckhead Theater Carolina Chocolate Drops, Variety Playhouse Sinbad, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre New orleans Red Fang, All Ways Lounge Deadeye Dick, Howlin’ Wolf

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

NASHVILLE Rascal Flatts, Ryman Auditorium

BIRMINGHAM Elisium, Iron Horse Cafe

NASHVILLE John Mayer, Bridgestone Arena Martina McBride, Ryman Auditorium Suicide Girls, Marathon Music Works Anthony Green, Mercy Lounge/Cannery Ballroom

TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA // BIRMINGHAM // DECEMBER 7

Birmingham Trans Siberian Orchestra, BJCC Spunk Monkeys, Iron Horse Cafe

NEW ORLEANS John Mayer with Phillip Phillips, New Orleans Arena Taylor Hicks, Harrahs Nick Kroll, The Civic Theater Bonnie Raitt, Saenger Theater Reverend Red and Duane Mark, Howlin’ Wolf ATLANTA Jamey Johnson, Wild Bill’s Mint Condition, Atlanta Civic Center

sunday, DECEMBER 8

NEW ORLEANS Sarah McCoy and the Oopsie Daisies, Spotted Cat

MONTGOMERY Victor Wainwright, Capitol Oyster Bar

THURSday, DECEMBER 5

NASHVILLE Trans Siberian Orchestra, Bridgestone Arena Animal Collective, Marathon Music Works Brian Setzer Orchestra, Ryman Auditorium

MONTGOMERY Roots And Boots, Montgomery Performing Arts Center Elisium, Rock Bottom

Birmingham August Burns Red, Zydeco The Grahams, The Nick

BIRMINGHAM Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave., WorkPlay Theater Taproot, Highnote

NORA JANE STRUTHERS // MONTGOMERY // DECEMBER 6

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

BONNIE RAITT // NEW ORLEANS // DECEMBER 7

WEDNESday, DECEMBER 11

NEW ORLEANS Kanye West, New Orleans Arena Suicide Girls, House of Blues

NASHVILLE Andrew Peterson, Ryman Auditorium

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

Birmingham Those Darlins, Bottletree Cafe

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12

ATLANTA The Devil Wears Prada, The Masquerade

>>> R OA D T R I P D I R E C T O RY Travel the South's best venues. Visit their website for ticket info and more.

Acoustic Café 2758 County Hwy 9 205.647.3237

Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St NE 404.881.2100

Moe’s Original BBQ 6423 Park Dr 251.625.7427

Amphitheater at the Wharf 23101 Canal Rd 251.224.1020

The Hangout 251.948.3030 thehangout1.com

Bridgestone Arena 501 Broadway 615.770.2000

Marathon Music Works 1402 Clinton St 615.891.1781

Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St 334.481.5100

Centennial Olympic Park 265 Park Ave W NW 404.223.4412

Minglewood Hall 1555 Madison Ave 901.312.6058

18

NOVEMBER 28+ DECEMBER 12

205.324.1911 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre 2200 Encore Pkwy 404.733.5010 Von Braun Center 700 Monroe St SW 256.551.2345

The Nick 2514 10th Ave S 205.252.3831

WorkPlay 500 23rd St S 205.380.4082

Sloss Furnaces 20 32nd St N

Zydeco 2001 15th Ave S 205.933.1032

>>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA // ATLANTA // DECEMBER 12

TO HAVE YOUR VENUE AND EVENTS LISTED HERE PLEASE EMAIL PLANETEDITOR@YAHOO.COM TO BE INCLUDED IN THE NEXT ISSUE.

>>> TUSCALOOSA MUSIC | WHO'S PLAYING AROUND TOWN

CBDB

JUNKYARD KINGS

JUPITER // DECEMBER 12

GREEN BAR // DECEMBER 5

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12

Rhythm & Brews: Lynam Jupiter: DJ Pandora, DJ Houndstooth

Jupiter: CBDB

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13

Rhythm & Brews: Mojo Trio Jupiter: DJ Silence

Jupiter: DJ Houndstooth

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

Rounders: Borland Green Bar: Open Mic w/ Ham Bagby

Jupiter: DJ Silence

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5

Green Bar: Junkyard Kings

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

Green Bar: Memphis Dawls Jupiter: DJ Alchemy

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Rounders: Soul Tide Green Bar: Satan's Youth Ministers / The Crown Imps Jupiter: DJ Silence

SEAN RIVERS TRIO

wednesday, DECEMBER 11

TO HAVE YOUR BAR AND MUSIC EVENT

Rhythm & Brews: Karaoke Green Bar: Open Mic Rhythm & Brews: DJ ProtoJ

OCTOBER 25 & 26 // ROUNDERS

LISTED HERE PLEASE EMAIL PLANETEDITOR@YAHOO.COM

>>> LO C A L B A R S 4th & 23rd

Buffalo Wild Wings // 523-0273

Gallettes // 758-2010

Jackie's Lounge // 758-9179

The Red Shed // 344-4372

1831 // 331-4632

Capones // 248-0255

Gnemis Top Shelf Tavern // 343-0020

The Jupiter // 248-6611

Rhythm & Brews // 750-2992

Alcove // 469-9110

Carpe Vino // 366-8444

Grey Lady // 469-9521

The Legacy // 345-4848

Rooster's Blues House // 334-4507

Bear Trap // 345-2766

Catch 22 // 344-9347

Harry's Bar // 331-4151

Mellow Mushroom // 758-0112

Rounders // 345-4848

Big Al's // 759-9180

Copper Top // 343-6867

Houndstooth // 752-8444

Mikes Place // 764-0185

The Booth // 764-0557

Downtown Pub // 750-0008

Innisfree // 345-1199

Mugshots // 391-0572

>>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

19

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NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

>>> HIGH TIDE | G A R Y H A R R IS

DA'SHAWN HAND // BAMA HAS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

C.J. Hampton Nick Saban stresses the importance of finishing strong. That's not just for the players on the field, it also applies to the coaches in recruiting. It appeared for months that star DE/LB Da'Shawn Hand (6-4, 256) of Woodbridge, VA would likely JASON BAND pick theMILLER Michigan Wolverines. But down rHYTHM & BREWS // AUGUST 3 the stretch, Alabama came on strong, impressing Hand enough during his official visit on the weekend of October 26 to sway him to the Tide.

"I took two visits up there," Hand said at his announcement ceremony today.

"I went to a camp and I got to see how the campus life is outside of the football season. I went on my official and I saw the gameday atmosphere and the culture.

They've got a winning tradition.

"All the coaches care about their players. They don't lie to you. They tell you how it is. I know when I go in that I'm not going to be number one on the depth chart. I know that I'm going to have to do a lot of hard work. They have the most freshmen playing this year. Anything is possible."

Prior to Hand's official visit to Alabama, the Tide staff was aware that academics would play a key role in Hand's decision.

A detailed presentation of UA's engineering program was prepared for Hand's visit.

That played a major part in his decision.

"Dean [Chuck] Karr, who is the engineering dean, he's a football guy," Hand said. "I love that guy, man. Like I said, I love Civil Engineering and I love that major. A couple of the players that actually play are taking that major."

"It was hard, but I think I made the right decision. Roll Tide!"

What weighed most in Hand's decision?

They offer the best of both world's," Hand said. "I'll start with academics.

They have my major. I can relate with Dean Karr. I haven't met the professors yet, but I'll do that. I fell in love with the campus, the campus life is amazing, the players, I know half the team already, and that coaching staff. The coaching staff is amazing. And why not go where there's a great possibility that you're going to win a national championship? So, I'm just excited. Roll Tide!"

RAEKWON MCMILLAN Bama Is In The Mix There's a battle going on for linebacker Raekwon McMillan. The 6-2, 243-pound, Hinesville-Liberty County, GA star is trying to decide between Alabama, Clemson and Ohio State.

A few weeks ago, McMillan was in Tuscaloosa on an official visit for the LSU game.

"Alabama did a great job on the visit," Liberty County coach Kirk Warner says.

"Raekwon told me it was a great visit.

He saw everything he needed to see.

They answered all of his questions. They showed him how they would use him.

They made a strong impression on him."

One area where Alabama still might have more ground to make up is convincing McMillan that he'd have a shot at playing as a freshman. Ohio State, long considered the leader for McMillan, is of-

fering immediate playing time. Clemson is telling McMillan that they need him more than the others do.

"Playing time is definitely something that is part of his decision," Warner says.

"I've told him that because he's going to be an early enrollee, he'll have all the opportunity he needs to get into the rotation early no matter where he goes. He'd have the same opportunity at any of the schools. I've told him that he needs to think about that."

It's been speculated that another key factor in McMillan's decision could be distance.

"It's about six-and-a-half hours to Tuscaloosa. I don't think that's too far," Warner says. "If he's willing to go that far, I don't think the drive to Ohio State should be that much of a factor, because it would be a long drive for him either way.

Clemson could be kind of a compromise, because it would be closer to home. That could help Clemson out a little."

While most think that Ohio State and Clemson have the inside track, Warner says not to count out Alabama.

"I wouldn't count out Alabama at all," Warner says. "They really made a good impression on his visit, and they could be playing in their third straight national championship game. I think if they make it to that game again, you never know, that could weigh in his decision. They have a winning tradition and that means something."

C.J. MOSLEY Finalist For Awards Alabama linebacker C.J. Mosley has

been named a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Rotary Lombardi Award.

Mosley, from Mobile, Ala., is the leader of the Crimson Tide’s vaunted defense that ranks first nationally in scoring defense (10.2 ppg), third in rushing defense (91.1 ypg), third in first down defense (140), fifth in total defense (272.2) ninth in pass defense (181.7 ypg) and 13th pass efficiency defense (107.8).

Mosley is one of four finalists for the Rotary Lombardi Award and one of five for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy. Missouri’s Michael Sam is the only other finalist from the SEC. The Nagurski Trophy is awarded by the Football Writers Association of America and the Charlotte (N.C.) Touchdown Club to the nation’s top defensive football player.

The Lombardi Award is presented by the Rotary Club of Houston and honors the nation’s top interior lineman or linebacker.

Mosley leads the team with 81 tackles while recording 7.0 tackles for loss, five pass breakups and a team-high eight quarterback hurries. He has been the SEC Defensive Player of the Week for two straight weeks and is a nine-time Alabama Defensive Player of the Week. Mosley is also a semifinalist for the Butkus Award, Bednarik Award and the Lott Impact Trophy.

Gary Harris is Sports Director of Tuscaloosa's WVUA-TV, and can be seen nightly at 5, 6, and 10 p.m.

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

NOVEMBER 28 + DECEMBER 12

21

>>>

I N V E S T I G AT I O N | C O N tinue D F R O M P A G E 4

HOLIDAY CRIME // BETTER WATCH OUT

during the holiday season can go easily undetected in its beginning stages and affect not only the firms in questions, but also their consumers.

“Sixty-nine percent of respondents believe Internet fraud is becoming frequent and severe”, the study reported. “Only 23 percent of respondents say most internet fraud that occurs on their company’s websites are quickly detected and remediated.”

Customer loyalty is a key business concept when considering the consumer driven nature of the holiday season. As credit cards max out and leave customers grasping for funds, the same can be said for a company that experiences trouble on their website when compromised from the outside. According to the Ponemon study, this result in substantial loses.

“While shoppers on Cyber Monday can significantly boost sales, just one hour of downtime as a result of an attack could mean an average loss of almost $500,000.

Or, about $8,000 for every minute a purchase is prevented or the integrity of the website compromised. It gets worse when you consider what the cost could be to customer loyalty if it becomes impossible to make a purchase or there is perception that the website is not secure. According to the companies in our study, an average of $3.4 million is what reputation and brand damage can cost as a result of the loss of customers.

Although the possibility of cyber theft during the holidays is more prevalent in online mediums than in past years, precautions are normally stronger in-store and weaker online, which leaves shoppers susceptible to criminal scams.

“Sixty-four percent of respondents say their organizations have seen an increase in Internet fraud and/or attempted website attacks during high traffic days such as Cyber Monday”, the study reports. ”However, only one-third say

22

NOVEMBER 28+ DECEMBER 12

they are taking special precautions to ensure high availability and integrity of customerfacing websites during high traffic days such as Cyber Monday.

That is why most rate their companies as not being sufficiently prepared for the increased traffic and likelihood of an attack.”

According to an FBI press release, increased holiday web traffic will mean that shoppers should be aware of how and where they shop online during the season to avoid potential scammers and their traps.

“Scammers use many techniques to fool potential victims including fraudulent auction sales, reshipping merchandise purchased with a stolen credit card, sale of fraudulent or stolen gift cards through auction sites at discounted prices,” the release said. “[Criminals may also attempt] Phishing e-mails advertising brand name merchandise for bargain prices or e-mails promoting the sale of merchandise that ends up being a counterfeit product.”

In the same release that focused on cyber crime, the FBI cited online criminals

can result in the consumer becoming a target in mediums such as Facebook.

“Along with online shopping comes the growth of consumers utilizing social networking sites and mobile phones to satisfy their shopping needs more easily,” the release said. “Again, consumers are encouraged to beware of e-mails, text messages, or postings that may lead to fraudulent sites offering bargains on brand name products.”

In both the residential and business sectors, property crimes and violent crimes see a definite spike during the holiday season according to Sgt. Dale Phillips, commander of the Tuscaloosa Metro Homicide Unit.

“Burglary and theft occur more than violent crimes during the holidays mainly because people have more valuables in their homes,” he said. “This creates more of an opportunity for criminals to steal items and property that they can then sell and make money from.”

According to Phillips, the numbers of crimes during the holidays rise and fall given particular variables but many result simply from excesses and tempers during holiday festivities.

“It normally starts a little bit before thanksgiving because a lot of these burglaries will slow down after school gets out because there will be more people at home,” he said. “As far as violent crimes, we tend to see an increase in domestic related crimes such as assaults and domestic violence cases. More families get together during the holidays. Sometimes in these situations, people come together that probably shouldn’t be or have domestic issues with each other. You bring them together or sometimes force them together and once that happens then it can lead to arguments, which can often times result in violence. “ While the holidays are often viewed as a joyous time accented by an assumption of peace on earth and good will to all, this season does not mean that criminal investigations or crimes cease to persist.

According to Phillips, investigations dur-

capitalizing on holiday shopping events as a major source of criminal activity.

“Black Friday has traditionally been the biggest shopping day of the year,” the release said. “The Monday following Thanksgiving has more recently been labeled Cyber Monday, meaning the ecommerce industry endorses this special day to offer sales and promotions without interfering with the traditional way to shop. Scammers try to prey on Black Friday or Cyber Monday bargain hunters by advertising one-day only promotions from recognized brands. Consumers should be on the watch for too good to be true e-mails from unrecognized website.”

The FBI also warned holiday shoppers to be wary of the way that they shop, considering the increasing use to new forms of technology out of convenience, which

>>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

ing this time must be handled with the upmost care and sincerity.

“One year for example, we had a death investigation that involved a homeless man being found deceased on a family’s porch on Christmas morning”, he said. “Our investigators had to work the case, do a thorough job and try not to disrupt the holidays for that particular family.”

Phillips recommended that for a safe holiday season, the appropriate measures must be taken in several ways.

“During the holidays, people need to lock up their valuables, homes and cars”, he said. “If they are going to consume alcohol, do it in moderation. A large number of violent crimes we investigate are directly related to alcohol or drugs. People just need to realize around the holiday season that they need to take special precautions to protect their property and themselves."

For those who witness a crime being committed during the holidays or otherwise, contact Tuscaloosa Crime Stoppers at 205.752.7867 to provide an anonymous tip.

>>> HOROSCOPES |

>>> PUZZLEMAniA |

week l y o verv i ew

Sudoku

Do you have a talent for writing? You seem to have a precise and clear way of expressing yourself. And it's possible you use this gift of yours in your career. This week, you might want to use it to express your feelings about someone. Whether you write to a family member or compose a love letter, you'll be particularly inspired.

You have a pleasant week ahead. People may be a little less playful, but they'll be all the more caring in their relationships. That's just how you like them! Everything is on your side for you to express your feelings to someone close. Do it now! This atmosphere will only last a few days.

You should expect to feel warmth in your contact with other people this week. Your relations will have something particularly tender and caring about them. It's like people are suddenly much more attentive and sensitive. The universe is like one big, happy family. You can confide in other people. Don't be afraid to talk about your most intimate feelings with a friend.

You won't be disappointed this week. Over the next few days you're going to put your analytical way of thinking aside and let your feelings guide you. You'll be attentive to the people you love.

If someone needs your help, you can be counted on to come to the rescue. You'll spare them the lecture about what they've done wrong!

This week is great for creativity, especially the kind that shows your special style. You're productive, although what you've been creating is just a reflection of the latest fashions. This is one of your drawbacks, as it keeps you from being true to your special style. You should use your feelings as your inspiration.

This week someone might ask what you're thinking about. You often think about things that are inaccessible to others. It will be like you've gone inside yourself on your quest for answers to spiritual questions or the secrets of life. Just tell him or her you're trying to rest, as they probably won't understand what you're thinking about anyway.

It's easy to play Sudoku! Simply fill every column, row and 3x3 box so they contain every number between 1 and 9. The game is easy to play but difficult to master! Solution Page 27

You love to have very serious discussions about important issues well into the night. You rebuild the world the way you'd like to see it with your friends. But now you start yawning around ten and are in bed within the hour. This is true this week, too. Are you tired or do you need to be alone to think about things?

Do you often act as if the world is static and nothing ever changes?

Sometimes you may think that humankind is a certain way, the world is a certain way, and so this is what you're going to do. Have you ever heard of evolution? The human race is constantly evolving, and so is the world. Look around!

This week let your emotions mingle with your thoughts. What good is telling yourself that you must like something if you really can't stand it? What good are grand principles if your heart isn't in them?

Take the time to put your head in sync with your heart as of now.

You may feel like going into your past. One half of you feels nostalgia for the "good old days." The other half lives for the future and is unafraid to project into the unknown. Even though this sounds a bit contradictory, both these sides of you help the world move forward. Think about this today.

You're sensitive to the world around you. It's like you're thinking with your heart. It's possible you'll be more impressionable and less objective when your emotions get the better of you in your relationships. If you'd hoped to hide something from someone, it won't work. Even if you say nothing, it's written on your face.

If you had to take a test this week, and had a choice between poetry and physics, you wouldn't hesitate. Poetry. It's about interpretation, not analysis. A change in the atmosphere over the next few days is going to affect your thinking. You should expect some confusion in your contact with the people closest to you.

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23

>>> PUZZLEMANIA | C R OSS W O R D PU Z Z L E

Across 1. ___ Pahlavi (former shah of Iran) 5. Plasters 10. Warsaw ___ of 1955 14. Cooking chamber 15. "No problem!"

16. Month after Shebat 17. Dr. Frankenstein's workplace 19. Run out of steam 20. Make used (to) 21. High-ranking army officers 23. King or Young 26. Singer Bryant and others 27. Toy with a built-in surprise 32. "Deep Space Nine" changeling 33. ___ de Lion, epithet for Richard I 34. Company that makes the Pocket Fisherman 38. Siren's sound 40. Lion voiced by Liam Neeson in "The Chronicles of Narnia" 42. Queen in "The Lion King" 43. Type of poetry 45. Gun that fires electric darts 47. Pas' mates 48. Childbirth 51. Lure into a crime 54. Fast PC connections 55. "___ of London" (1935 film) 58. Bad ball to be behind 62. "____ a man with..."

63. "Do tell!"

66. Redded up 67. German novelist: 1837- 98 68. Mork's sign-off, when doubled 69. Chihuahua cat 70. Name in cosmetics 71. Army drill instructor, often: Abbr.

Down 1. Dr. Zhivago, to Omar Sharif 2. 'Thirteen' actress ___Rachel Wood 3. Indian beast of burden

24

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4. Winter wear 5. Day: Sp. 6. Long-distance inits.

7. Quadrennial games org.

8. Queens or Staten Island, informally 9. '70s space place 10. First Lady, 1969-74 11. On ___ (counting calories) 12. Sarcastic 'Cheers' waitress 13. Amount of hair 18. Survival 22. Words before "about" 24. Forest ox 25. Bikini trials, briefly 27. Cheek by ___ (close together) 28. "I took ____ to search for God": Carman 29. Coconut-husk fiber 30. Luau dances 31. Wiped off the blackboard 35. Jan, Jane, Jen, Jean, Joan, John, or June 36. Scotsman's family 37. Kiln for drying hops 39. Text of an opera 41. Buntline and Rorem 44. Bear's scratcher 46. CSA signature 49. Heroic poem 50. Churchill flashed them during W.W. II 51. "Dallas" surname 52. Home of Hercules's lion 53. Halloween trick preventer, in theory 56. Lawyers' degrees 57. Yard sections 59. Tibetan antelopes 60. ___ Kong, China 61. Carpenter's metal piece 64. 'You ___ the Sunshine of My Life' 65. Opposite NNW SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMANIA CROSSWORD ON PAGE 27

>>> PLANETWEEKLY • tuscaloosa's SOURCE for entertainment, music, sports & THE ARTS

>>> ADVICE | J UST AS K Robert Randolph & The Family Band

SIMONE says...

Q: Simone, I’m in a situation, such a big mess, really, that it’s difficult for me to even write to you about it, although this is anonymous.

I’m so angry, embarrassed, humiliated, confused. I’m a 29-year-old guy who was married for eight years and had a child when I met Samantha. (My marriage came about at age 21 when I got a woman I was dating pregnant. I wasn’t happy; my ex has an untreated eating disorder, but I love my child.)

Samantha came onto me strong (a pattern of hers) and it resulted in an affair.

After a while I felt guilty and broke it off, but then I found out she was seeing other guys, and I became jealous (I know, crazy but Train true. Pathetic.). I ended up divorcing my wife and moving in with Samantha, although she doesn’t like kids and wasn’t very kind to my young son. Samantha and I were together for five years, but I felt guilty the whole time. And I didn’t trust her. Our jobs required travel; I’d call her at her hotel, but rarely did she answer at night. I became increasingly insecure and possessive, and in retaliation, I began bedding down other women, and she caught me. Yet, I did not want to lose her. Then while on a business trip, my best friend and her hooked up and she moved out, taking nearly everything I owned. They’re still together. I am crazy with hurt and rage over this. I feel so betrayed. This “best friend” was someone I hung out with all the time but looked up to in an insecure way, I think. There were times when he was belittling to me, and I just took it. He was/is the “cool” guy I aspired to be, but never felt like I was, which made me feel like even more of a fool. After Samantha left, I slashed her tires to get even. Whoa, that is a secret I’ve never admitted out loud. It’s been over a year since all of this happened, but I can’t get it out of my head. I’ve taken my anger out on other women by trying to sleep with as many as I can but then walking away afterward and never looking back. I know this is wrong, but I can’t seem to find my grounding again (if I ever had it to begin with). Help — I’m spinning!

Signed, “Dizzy” A: Dear “Dizzy”, Wow. I’m so glad you wrote to me; you had a lot to say. But I want to be very careful in my response. There is a lot of ground to cover. I want to begin at what might initially seem like an unlikely place, given the entirety of your message: the comments you made near the end about

feeling uncool, looking “up to” your so-called “best” friend, feeling insecure, like a “fool”, etc. I want to begin there because, even though your message is largely about the promiscuous behaviors of your ex-girlfriend, your former “best” friend and yourself, these behaviors are only the symptoms of your lack of belief in and acceptance of yourself.

If you’ve been reading this advice column for awhile, you know that my answers often take this direction.

I understand how and why you feel betrayed and foolish, taken advantage of and tricked, even. But the truth is that you set yourself up for this, and that isn’t statement of blame. It’s actually a statement of empowerment. From what you have described, you’ve been living your life and making your decisions as reactions to the behaviors and choices of others: you’ve been giving your power away. You’re still doing it by focusing on them instead of yourself. I’m surmising that this lack of confidence, sense of self-worth and self-esteem has origins early in your life, with roots that may have taken hold during the formative childhood years. Time to dig them up, discard them; they are and always were false.

It’s time now to plant new beliefs that uphold your self-worth, that affirm the great guy that you, of course, are — even if some of your choices and related behaviors, based on the old beliefs, haven’t been so great.

Now, I’m going to say something that may feel even more shocking: this emotional crises that has you spinning, this seeming betrayal and humiliation, is a gift — if you allow yourself to recognize and use it as one. These chaotic relationships and the hurt they exposed couldn’t have occurred if the lack of confidence and underlying hurt weren’t already there. So, questions to ask yourself: where and when did this pain, this lack of belief in and valuation of yourself begin? That is where your self-work needs to begin. Leave the ladies alone for now, and try not to focus on thoughts of Samantha and your ex-best friend. Instead look within for the limiting beliefs getting you in these jams, creating conflict and guilt and keeping from experiencing joy in your life.

Where does one begin on such an inward journey, you may ask. You have actually begun just by writing this letter. Are you a reader? Do you ever stray toward the self-help isle of book stores or in searches online? That is a resource. And therapy is another. But as I tell my readers, choose your therapist as you would a good mechanic: seek references, ask about experience and methods. Empower yourself by knowing there are therapists out there with shingles hanging who know what you need and where you need to go in your self-work and others who have no clue.

You’re already on your way; finding your footing; standing steady on ever firmer ground. And again, thanks for writing.

You’ve helped others as well as yourself.

Signed, Simone

Flo Rida

©2013 Simone Says-Advice. If you have a question for Simone, email planeteditor@yahoo.com, subject: Simone. Identies to queries are held in confidence.

We reserve the right to edit the text.

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>>> RED CLAY DIARY | J IM R E E D

THANKSGIVING // THE HAPPIEST SAD DAY OF THE YEAR

TASTY FOOD & BRILLIANT BREWS

Here is a true story I re-tell every Thanksgiving, just to remind myself and you that everything that reallymatters is right before us, all the time. Here ‘tis: The saddest thing I ever saw: a small, elderly woman dining alone at Morrison’s Cafeteria, on Thanksgiving Day. Oh there are many other sadnesses you can find if you look hard enough, in this variegated world of ours, but a diner alone on Thanksgiving Day makes you feel really fortunate, guilty, smug, relieved, tearful, grateful…it bringsyou up short and makes you time-travel to the pockets of joy and cheer you experienced in earlier days.

Crepe paper. Lots of crepe paper. And construction paper. Bunches of different-colored construction paper. In my childhood home in Tuscaloosa, my Thanksgiving Mother always made sure we creative and restless kids had all the cardboard, scratch paper, partly-used tablets, corrugated surfaces, unused napkins, backs of cancelled checks, rough brown paper from disassembled grocery bags, backs of advertising letters and flyers…anything at all that we could use to make things. Yes, dear 21st-Century young’uns, we kids back then made things from scraps. We could cut up all we wanted, and cut up we did.

We cut out rough rectangular sheets from stiff black wrapping paper and glued the edges together to make Pilgrim hats. Old belt buckles were tied to our shoelaces—we never could get it straight, whether the Pilgrims were Quakers, or vice versa, or neither. But it always seemed important to put buckles on our shoes and sandals, wear tubular hats and funny white paper collars, and craft weird-looking guns that flared out like trombones at one end. More fun than being a Pilgrim/Quaker was being an Indian—a true blue Native American, replete with bare chest, feathers shed by neighborhood doves, bows made of crooked twigs and kite string, arrows dulled at the tip by rubber stoppers and corks, and loads of Mother’s discarded rouge and powder and lipstick and mashed cranberries smeared here and there on face and body, to make us feel like the Indians we momentarily were.

Sister Barbara and Mother would find some long autumnal-hued dresses for the occasion, but they were seldom seen outside the kitchen for hours on end, while the eight-course dinner was under construction.

There was always an accordion-fold crepe paper turkey centerpiece on display, hastily bought on sale at S.H. Kress, just after last year’s Thanksgiving season. It looked nothing like my Aunt Mattie’s turkeys in her West Blocton front yard. And for some reason, we ate cranberry products on that day and that day only. Nobody ever thought about cranberries the other 364 days! And those lucky turkeys were lucky because nobody ever thought of eating them except at Thanksgiving and Christmas. They were home free the rest of the year!

Now, back into the time machine of just a few years ago.

It is Thanksgiving Day. My wife and son and granddaughter are all out of the country. Other family and relatives are either dead or gone, or just plain tied up with their own lives in other states, doing things other than having Thanksgiving Dinner with me.

My brother, Tim, my friends Tim Baer and Don Henderson and I decide that we will have to spend Thanksgiving Dinner together, since each of us is bereft of wife or playmate or relative, this particular holiday this particular year.

So, we wind up at Morrison’s Cafeteria, eating alone together, going through the line and picking out steamed-particle-board turkey, canned cranberries, thin gravy, boxed mashed potatoes and some bakery goods whose source cannot easily be determined.

But we laugh at our situation and each other, tell jokes, cut up a bit, and thank our lucky stars that this one Thanksgiving Dinner is surely just a fluke. We’ll be trying that much harder, next year, to not get blind-sided by the best holiday of the year, Thanksgiving being the only holiday you don’t have to give gifts or reciprocate gifts or strain to find the correct gifts.

On Thanksgiving holidays ever since, I make sure I’m with family and friends, and now and then I try to set a place at the table of my mind, for any little old lady or lone friend who might want to join us, for the second saddest thing I’ve ever seen is a happy family lustily enjoying a Thanksgiving feast together and forgetting for a moment about all those lone diners in all the cafeterias of the world who could use a glance and a smile (Jim Reed's Red Clay Diary column does not end with a period (.) because it never ends)

©2013 by Jim Reed

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NOVEMBER 28+ DECEMBER 12

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>>> MUSIC | t rey br o o k s

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA // THE GREAT HOLIDAY SPECTACLE

Snoop Lion

SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMAINIA SUDOKO PAGE 23

SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMAINIA CROSSWORD PAGE 24

@TreyBrooks88

As Christmas approaches, the radio stations all around the nation begin to focus their music around holiday staples. These normally feature the Burl Ives classics, traditional hymns and novelty songs. Interrupting this is heavy metal instrumentation fused with opera and classical composition, creating some of the most fascinating music on the planet. The artists responsible for this music is Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

An eclectic mix of former producers, metal veterans and Berkley-trained professionals, TSO combines the epic scales of classical greats and progressive rock to define the modern concert experience. They interweave classics with original material, often within the same number, and continue to expand the bounds of modern popular music with each new album. This is combined with an amazing stage show, with intense special effects and pyrotechnics alternating with subdued lighting depending on the piece.

They are truly an anomaly in modern music.

TSO was born out of the ashes of the progressive metal band Savatage. Savatage had experimented with classical composition in their work, but they tended to stick to heavier elements meant to compliment metal guitar sounds. When former member John Oliva and Al Pitrelli teamed up with the band’s former producer Paul O’Neill, they began writing music that had a greater focus onPanic the classical elements while still having Widespread a harder, rock edge. The plan was to produce a rock-opera about the Russian Revolution (hence the Trans-Siberian moniker), but when that album stalled, the creative team re-routed their efforts towards a Christmas concept album. The result was the influential Christmas Eve and Other Stories, released in 1996. This album was the first of their Christmas Trilogy, which also includes Christmas Attic and Lost Christmas. TSO further explored classical composition with Beethoven’s Last Night and Night Castle, also both concept albums. Further plans are to release the long delayed Russian Revolution album, as well as an album with more focus on their rock roots.

What also sets TSO apart from any other group is how they tour. The original members are split into two different touring groups with hired musicians performing their material.

They will often take multiple vocalists to avoid any one losing their voice during a tour. They always have a traditional rock composition (two guitars, bass, drums, vocals, keyboard/orPANIC HALLOWEEN gan), a full symphony orchestra, and a host of other WIDESPREAD random musicians, such as anCONCERT electric violin player. The audiences also treat the show as a classical concert by dressing much more formal and applauding only after pieces instead of the raucous environments you see at most rock concerts. Their light show would make KISS blush, and yet they use minimalist elements as well, letting the music dictate the show and not vice versa.

I had the pleasure of seeing Trans-Siberian Orchestra in Birmingham for New Year’s Eve back in 2007. Their show consisted of two acts: the first one being the story of the Christmas Story told with a sung narration; the second act being a more traditional concert of selected works with more audience interaction. That night also saw Styx’s Tommy Shaw join them onstage for the encore. Other progressive and metal musicians have joined TSO for shows, and TSO alumni have played in bands ranging from Slayer to Journey. The show was truly one-of-a-kind and nothing I have seen before or since Dispatch can prepare you for just how emotional the show can get.

TSO returns to Birmingham on December 7. The Magic City has been a staple of TSO’s tour since the beginning as local radio stations were some of the first to put their song “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo” (which uses a portion from “Carol of the Bells”) into heavy rotation around Christmas time. They tend to save some of their best for this show, so if you wish to catch them on this tour I have to recommend the Birmingham show above any other southeastern date. They truly bring the holiday to life.

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