Planet Weekly 469

>>> N E W S | T H E C H AM B E R OF COMM E R C E

NEWS

RIBBON CUTTINGS, HONORS, AND THE STATE OF THE STATE Chamber in Session: State of the State with Gov. Robert Bentley Gov. Robert Bentley will give us an update on our state on Mon., Oct. 6 at 11:30 a.m. at Hotel Capstone. Cost is $25/person, which includes lunch.

Reserved tables of 10 are available.

To reserve a seat or table, contact Stacey Gann at Stacey@ tuscaloosachamber.com or 391-0556.

The Chamber offers its members the opportunity to interact with local, state and national leaders at these Chamber in Session events throughout the year.

Northport Citizen Dinner with Former Gov. Jim Folsom, Jr. The Northport Citizen Dinner will be held on Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. at Five Points Baptist Church with former Gov. Jim Folsom, Jr. serving as the guest speaker. Reserved tables of 8 are available for $275, which

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includes the company name on the program and table. Individual tickets are $25/person. This dinner honors a citizen of Northport for their service as well as individuals in categories such as religion, business, education and others. Make your reservations for this event today and join us as we recognize outstanding citizens for their contributions. To reserve a seat or table, contact Stacey Gann at stacey@tuscaloosachamber.com or 391-0559.

Open House at Tuscaloosa Orthopedic and Joint Institute Dr. Bryan King and staff hosted an open house

with a ribbon cutting on Sept. 18 for the office located at 3515 Watermelon Rd. in Northport. Call 722-5591 for more info.

Jackson Electric. Spaces are available.

Call 722-2048 or visit www.bamagamedayrvparking.com for details.

Maki Fresh Opens We celebrated its opening on Sept. 24. Address is 1530 McFarland Blvd. in Indian Hills Square. The Birmingham-based restaurant offers casual Asian dining and serves sushi, sashimi, rice bowls, salads, sliders and more. Visit www.makifresh.com for more info.

Ribbon Cutting at Hotel & Restaurant Supply A ceremony was held on Sept. 22 at 10:30a.m. for this new business located at 200 14th St., Ste. 1 (in Spiller Center, just off 15th St.).

Visit www.hnrsupply.com to learn more.

Ribbon Cutting at Arlington Rental, Inc. We marked the opening of this temporary RV park on Sept.

19 at 101 Hargrove Rd., E. in Tuscaloosa, behind Tennis

Ribbon Cutting for New Wing at Hospice of West Alabama A ribbon cutting was held for a beautiful new wing in this facility on the VA campus (3851 Loop Rd. in Tuscaloosa) on Sept. 22. Learn more at www.hospiceofwestalabama.org.

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inside

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STORIES 5 THE PW IS 14 // RYAN PHILLIPS Linda Johnson's tenacity

HIGH TIDE SPORTS 21 RECRUITING UPDATE

By Gary Harris

8 CHOOSING THE RIGHT PET // KAREN GALARNEAU It's a very big responsibility

PUBLISHER LIN DA W. JOHNSON MANAGING EDITOR B E R T PAULS EN ASSISTANT EDITOR W ILLIAM BAR SHOP COVER DESIGN LAU R A LIN E B E R R Y EVENTS W ILLIAM B A R S H OP ROAD TRIP T R E Y B R OOK S DESIGN/PRODUCTION HERB NEU

IMAGES Creative Common License unless otherwise credited.

ADVERTISING 205.792.7 239 205.765- 8007

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS J E R OM E A D AMS W ILLIAM B A R S H OP c a r a br a ke T R E Y B R OO K S ALY X C H AN D L E R CAMILL E CO R B E TT K A R E N G ALA R N E AU G A R Y H A R R IS KEVIN LEDGEWOOD KATHY PHILLIPS R YAN P R ILLIPS JIM REED BRETT REID j o n r o ger s VAN R O B E R TS STEPHEN SMITH

Planet Weekly P. O . B o x 2 3 1 5 T u s c a l o o s a , AL 3 5 4 0 3 Phone: 205.792.7239 |

205.765.8007

Email: publisher@theplanetweek ly.com Please direct correspondence to: publisher@theplanetweekly.com The Planet Weekly is a proud member of The West Alabama Chamber of Commerce. © 2014 All rights reserved. THE PLANET WEEKLY is a registered trademark.

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 four copies without expressed permission of the publisher shall be deemed to have committed theft. The views and opinions of the authors of articles appearing in this publication may not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Publisher.

14 TRAVELING TO THE PAST // JEROME ADAMS The Moundville Native American Festival

15 SEWING IT UP WITH THE TIN MAN Outsider artist Charlie Lucas

20 TURNING THE TIDE // STEPHEN SMITH Alabama's offense is setting precedents

27 ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME // TREY BROOKS Who should be inducted?

entertainment 10-12 13

RESTAURANT GUIDE / WINE & BEER

UA Athletic Photography

FEATURE 5 MURKY WATER LAWS // WILLIAM BARSHOP "Water flows uphill toward the most money"

MOVIE REVIEW

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Events Calendar

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Road Trip

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Tuscaloosa music

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THE FLAT SCREEN / Reviews

23 Horoscopes // Sudoku 24 CROSSWORD PUZZLe

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OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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>>> N E W S | W I L L I A M B A R S H O P

WATER LAWS STILL MURKY // TUSCALOOSANS MAKE THEIR VOICES HEARD “Before I put on my penny loafers to become a lawyer, I believed water flowed downhill on the path of least resistance,” said Bennett Bearden, the director of the University of Alabama Water Policy and Law Institute.

“Don’t believe that. Water flows uphill toward who has the most money.”

Mitch Reid, Alabama Rivers Alliance

Alabama’s wealth of rivers has been central to the state’s economy since the beginning, when marine trade was king.

Yet the laws that govern our water resources are a mess of contradictions. For example, the method of pumping drinking water to Tuscaloosa homes is technically unlawful because of codes dating back to Old English common law.

“That doesn’t pass a smell test,” said Mitch Reid, the program director of the Alabama Rivers Alliance. He pointed out that water ownership is currently granted to whoever owns the land touching the water, a rule of thumb that has proved inefficient.

There is also little consideration for sustaining river flow to keep the water supply plentiful, and the consequences for illegal dumping are unclear. An initial movement from 1990—even then overdue —has brought only slow progress toward a new set of laws for Alabama. The stakeholders in Tuscaloosa’s Black Warrior River, from business owners to conservationists, came together for a symposium Sept. 26 to discuss the gaping hole in our legal codes: how do we manage our water?

“This has been simmering on the backburner for decades,” Reid said. “We really need to have everyone at the table talking about what will work and what won’t. How can you be sure this system doesn’t drain the rivers dry?”

A Flood of Data Governor Robert Bentley created a team to assess the problems with water management in 2012, forming the Alabama Water Agencies Working Group and mandating a report that was just published this year. Pat O’Neil summed up AWAWG’s main findings at the Tuscaloosa symposium.

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“It’s a real snoozer,” O’Neil said of the 200-plus page report. “But having data is the most critical thing we can do as a state right now to move water policy forward. You cannot manage what you do not know.”

The common law that dictates water ownership was one of the three most pressing issues O’Neil said we must address. The second was inter-basin transfer, which is the movement of water between river basins, particularly those of our neighbors, Georgia and Florida. The third was instream flow, the amount of water moving through a river channel.

“Water management used to be how much water is in the river and how much do we use,” Reid said. “There’s politics

where you say ‘I need this much and you need this much, so we need to cut the baby,’ but it’s still pretty simple. When you ask how this affects the system, it becomes a whole lot more complicated.”

The trouble with making one big law to protect the flow of rivers is that nature can be unpredictable and resist simple explanations. Prudent water use may differ from season to season and year to year, making guidelines hard to follow.

“The thing about politicians, most of them today are not scientists,” Bearden said. “Our priority with any plan must be putting the science first.”

The Black Warrior River may not be in any danger of drying up in the near future, but O’Neil said he has observed enough

Not discussed: Despite known risks, it would not surprise cynics if the Alabama Department of Environmental Management approves what is an obviously risky (to everyone) project. Will ADEM say "no?" Has our state government ever said "no" to big money?

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failure in neighboring states to be cautious with Alabama’s resources. Flint River in Georgia has suffered major overuse due to nearsighted planning and reckless activity in the Mississippi Delta has left the region’s ecosystem struggling to recover.

“Don’t think this drought will not come visit us again,” O’Neil said. “Right now California is suffering. It will be us again.”

Tuscaloosa Makes Waves Once all the information had been laid out, the floor was opened to the stakeholders. Anyone who had some investment in Alabama’s rivers, whether for business, recreation or the environment, had a chance to express their ideas and concerns.

Representatives from Parker Towing Company, Inc. of Northport, Ala., said they count on a reasonably high water level on the Black Warrior River to keep their freight ships from scraping across the floor.

“We see the river as belonging to everyone, so we watch out for anyone who needs to use it,” said George Anderson, Parker Towing’s vice president of sales.

The company makes room for the University of Alabama rowing team to practice and holiday fireworks and parades to celebrate, even though business technically have the legal right of way. “We expect everyone else to watch out for each other the same way.”

One topic that ruffled some feathers was regarding permits that could be required for withdrawing water. Some called the permits an example government overreach, but others like the Alabama Rivers Alliance said permits are important for measuring total use of water.

“You’ve got to be able to account for CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

>>> O P I N I O N | R YA N P H I L L I P S

PLANET WEEKLY'S 14TH YEAR // UNCONVENTIONAL, AND THAT'S GOOD mendous impact.”

In addition to covering the popular issues of the city, Johnson has used Planet Weekly to work with local charities and reach out to the community.

“I have also been privileged to work with some great charitable organizations, such as United Cerebral Palsy , Roll Tide Relief Benefit, United Way, and my personal non profit that was started 10 years ago, the C.P. Winters Summer Camp, helping children with mental challenges. “ she said. “Our goal has been and always will remain to be committed to helping our community fulfill its human and economic potential.”

Technology has revolutionized media around the world and Planet Weekly continues to adapt with the changes under Johnson and Managing Editor Herb Neu’s leadership. The magazine recently launched a new website aimed at pushing Planet Weekly farther into the 21st century. “A digital version of the magazine is also available on the site,” she said. “With everything going digital it was the logical next step for Planet Weekly.”

The 14th anniversary of Planet Weekly stands as a testament to the hard work

of a socially conscious and creative staff that continues to provide coverage for an information-hungry public. With each new article produced by this talented staff, the gap is bridged between the old and the new.

Alternative media is surely here to stay in Tuscaloosa, and on a personal note, I am thankful that I could be a small part of an ever-growing publication in such a great community.

During my time as an editor, I grew as a journalist and writer while telling the stories of the people, places and features that make Tuscaloosa great. I was able to interact with a progressive-minded staff that genuinely values the community around them.

As the faces in the community change and new names appear in bylines for Planet Weekly, Tuscaloosa can be certain that this humble alternative publication will continue to serve the people of the city and tell their stories in a way that can only be found in Planet Weekly.

—Ryan Phillips is a former editor of Planet Weekly, now Digital Producer at the Birmingham Business Journal

Planet Weekly publisher, Linda Johnson

Tuscaloosa should be thankful for its media. The Druid City boasts numerous news outlets that continue to serve the people of West Alabama, but Planet Weekly has, for 14 years, provided an alternative slant for issues about town.

I should know. I wrote more articles for this magazine than I could possibly count before moving elsewhere with my career.

Needless to say, it holds a special place in my heart and I was honored when asked to write this special anniversary piece.

A creative endeavor with the staying power of Planet Weekly would not be possible without strong leadership and direction. Linda Johnson has remained at the top of the chain of command and weathered the technological revolution into a new age of journalism and entertainment.

“It’s taken a lot of blood, sweat, and tears,” she said. “It definitely has not been easy, but having great supportive clients

and some of the most talented and creative staff have truly been a blessing.”

The media market in Tuscaloosa is an interesting blend of both traditional and alternative media, and Planet Weekly has established an obvious foothold. However, this burgeoning form of alternative journalism continues to evolve across the country and many publications looks for a formula like the one implemented by Planet Weekly.

Johnson said the creative and unconventional focus of the magazine has proven to be the keys to success.

“Over the years our main focus has been to provide an outlet for Tuscaloosa’s Arts, music, and culture,” she said. “Being an alternative-based publication has allowed great flexibility for our writers to express their passions, and their creativity which I always have encouraged. Words are a very powerful tool and have a tre-

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

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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>>> PETS | KAREN GALARNEAU

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PET // IT'S A MAJOR COMMITMENT // DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Are you thinking of adopting a pet?

Having a pet can be one of life’s most rewarding decisions. Pets can provide love, affection, companionship and much more.

Yes, they can really make you happy. That is, if you make the right choice. Just like in life and in love, you have to choose wisely when it comes to adopting a pet because having a pet is also a responsibility. Pets are complex, feeling living things and as such have biological, psychological and physiological needs in order for them to grow and live a healthy and productive life. They are not toys that can just be put aside, or discarded. So before you make a decision on which pet you will choose, it is good to ask some questions and get some important information.

First, what type of pet would you like to make part of your family? Dogs are highly loyal and very affectionate and empathetic creatures. They love affection and lots of it. In contrast, cats are, in general, more independent and laid back. They also like to show affection, play, and like to be petted.

However, it’s mostly on their terms, and only when they want. Cat lovers will surely agree that cats can be very loving and affectionate, too. The best indication that they are happy with you is when they are purring. It’s the sweetest thing to a cat fancier.

What is your living situation? Do you live in a house with a fenced-in yard?

This would be ideal if you want to keep a dog, so that you could leave the dog there when you have to go to work. If so, remember that your dog will require shelter and fresh water. Or do you live in an apartment, and are the tenants allowed to keep pets? If you go to school or to work, can you leave your pet alone in the apartment? If you can’t keep a dog or a cat, maybe you could consider keeping fish in an aquarium. In terms of housing

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and space requirements, dogs generally require a bigger living space and a fenced yard while cats can be trained to do their business in the litter box. Dogs also need regular exercise. All pets need a clean and safe environment, protected from heat, storms, cold, or other extreme weather conditions.

It's important to know about a breed's predisposition to diseases. Some breeds are known to be predisposed to problems. German shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia. Schnauzers are susceptible to tumors. If you have a breed in mind, it would be good to look up breed characteristics online, such as temperament and purpose as well as genetic predispositions to certain diseases. Our pet’s health is also our health because they are our close companions and because of some zoonoses (diseases that are transmissible from animals to humans). Whatever type of pet you decide on, whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, pot-bellied pig, or other interesting creature, it is important to know as much as possible about that animal and to get proper veterinary care and regular check-ups for your pets.

Do you have time and patience? You will need to have both because pets require a lot of time and attention, not just for feeding, play and exercise, but also for their grooming needs. Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds and poodles have such gorgeous hair but require a lot of devotion. Otherwise, short-haired breeds may pose an attraction instead. But long hair or short, dog or cat, they need to be brushed on a regular basis and they tend to like the attention. The fact that pets need our time and attention cannot be overemphasized. Teaching the pet tricks, toilet training and obedience also takes a lot of time and patience (note: never, ever hit your pet). This could make the difference

between purchasing a puppy or adopting a grown dog from the shelter, one that is already housebroken and probably already trained. It’s amazing how "rescues" can blossom into loving and intelligent pets with a little tender loving care.

Learn about proper nutrition. Big or small, these lovable creatures require food and nourishment. Relatively speaking, the larger breeds need more food. Your budget for pet food may influence your decision on whether you get a large or small dog.

Nevertheless, proper nutrition is very important at all stages of the life of your pet. Often, big box store commercial pet foods are said to be like junk foods sold at fast food restaurants, so do your research.

Improper feeding i.e., too little or too much, can lead to malnutrition. It is important to remember that human food is for people, not necessarily for pets. Improper feeding and abrupt changes in their diets can lead to gastrointestinal issues for your pets. The Internet has many useful sites that rate pet foods and their ingredients. Don’t rely on the “warm fuzzy” images on the pet food package. Do some research. Some sites masquerade as “objective” sites, but may actually be slanted towards specific brands.

Beware.

Having a pet is a serious commit-

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ment and should not be taken lightly. It is better for all involved if the prospective pet owner will do some online research and a little soul searching when deciding whether to get a pet or not, and what kind of pet to get. Indeed, the rewards of having a pet that loves you unconditionally can only be measured by the happiness and joy it gives you. But the fact remains that these loving creatures are forever our pet children who never lose their dependence on us. They may grow older or bigger, but they will never outgrow their love for us. It is a privilege to be loved so unconditionally, but it is a serious responsibility. I hope this helps you make the right choice. I wish you a wonderful and lasting relationship with your pet.

Karen Glarneau is a DVM and holds a Masters in Veterinary Epidemiology/Public Health. She resides in Tuscaloosa County.

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SOUTHERN COLLEGE TOWNS LIKE OURS // MORE EXCITING FOR RETIREES

Success as an indie buzz-band takes just three easy steps: Make one good album, win some kind of cosmic-marketing lottery, and make a few more albums. The first step can be skipped if you really hit the mega-millions, but the second and third are mostly mandatory.

While financial security is a priority for most people when planning for retirement, where you live when retired can have a significant impact on finances, and equally important, quality of life. Regions with a lower cost of living – such as the Southeastern U.S. – put less strain on a fixed income, while the region’s mild climate makes winters more agreeable and less hazardous.

In addition to the ever-popular Florida, retirement communities can be found from the Gulf coast to the Atlantic seaboard and everywhere in between. But while the South continues to be a popular choice for retirees, many of the 80 million baby boomers retiring today are putting stakes down in cities once thought of as destinations only for young people: college towns.

A recent article in Kiplinger enthuses that the university at the center of a college town “generates intellectual and cultural sizzle for local residents and opens the door for retirees to take free or low-cost classes.” Oxford, Mississippi (University of Mississippi), leads its list of top 10 college towns for retirees, five of which are in the south.

USA Today has also reported the benefits college towns offer retirees. A 65+ couple profiled by the paper, Charles and Barb Parks, moved from Alexandria, Virginia, to Athens, Georgia (University of Georgia), when they retired. The Parks like the walkable campus community and having access to an array of college sports at affordable prices. AARP spokesperson Nancy Thompson noted in the article that some developers are even building retirement communities affiliated with universities – many offering residents full access to university facilities.

The fact is; college towns have be-

come cultural centers where people of all ages can enjoy local restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, theater and more.

For example, Lexington’s Opera House, Triangle Park and other popular locations, serve University of Kentucky students and the city’s 300,000 residents.

With classes in session nearly yearround, many retirees also enjoy the opportunity to take or audit college courses.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of North Carolina-Asheville offers more than 300 courses a year, many in six or eight week terms. The institute, which has a presence at many universities, offers classes on a range of topics including foreign languages, arts and crafts, business, literature, architecture, cooking and much more.

For retirees concerned about access to quality healthcare, college towns have long proven that good hospitals are not found only in big cities. The University of South Alabama Health System in Mobile specializes in cardiovascular and stroke care. Its Mitchell Cancer Institute offers top-quality cancer care and researches cutting edge treatments. Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville is renowned for its quality healthcare.

Its doctors have made breakthroughs in biomedical research related to melanoma, heart disease, Parkinson’s and lung cancer.

Increasing attention on college towns among retirees has driven the development of quality housing options, in town and nearby. If you desire downtown living, an amenity-rich development such as Riverfront Village in Tuscaloosa (University of Alabama), offers a resort-style pool, health club, three-story clubhouse and outdoor patio. Combined with a vastly rich university and cultural scene, Tuscaloosa

is becoming a booming destination for active retirees. However, if the privacy of a stand-alone home is more appealing, there are a variety of residential communities in college towns from which to choose.

The Lake Providence development, in Nashville, is one of many active adult communities that offer organized recreational activities for residents. Others, like The Georgia Club in Athens, are not strictly 55+ communities but attract many retirees with onsite amenities such as golf and fine dining. The community, just minutes from the University of Georgia campus and downtown Athens, provides easy access to local attractions including the Georgia Museum, the renowned 5&10 restaurant, State Botanical Garden of Georgia and The Classic Center Theatre, which hosts touring Broadway productions, headlining entertainers and the Athens Symphony Orchestra.

As you plan for retirement, there are

options available to suit any lifestyle and budget. For those looking to relocate to (or remain in) the South, college towns are an increasingly attractive destination.

With affordable housing options, cultural amenities, life-long learning opportunities, premier college sports and world-class healthcare, college towns like Tuscaloosa can make retirement what it should be: the best years of your life.

Kathy Phillips is an onsite sales associate at The Georgia Club, a premier golf and country club community located in Statham, Ga., near the University of Georgia.

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OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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SOUTHERN EXPOSURE // OUR LANDSCAPE ON FILM

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A young girl squeals at a toad hopping up her arm. Another cups her hands for a long, black millipede squirming around. This exploration of Alabama wildlife is captured on film by Johanna Obenda, a University of Alabama student and fellow of the Southern Environmental Law Center.

This film is one of six made this year as part of the Southern Exposure series, which aim to depict environmental impact and our role in nature. This year Obenda was chosen to tell the story of Camp McDowell, a summer program based in Nauvoo, Ala. Obenda was one of the chosen fellows with very little experience in filmmaking.

She had taken a course on documentaries at UA, but that was the extent of her work behind the camera.

“I didn’t really see, in my future, making films,” Obenda said. “So I thought I’d try it out, and it paid off. Everyone was so talented and I learned so much.”

She followed a group of campers into thick forests and through secluded trails, inspecting wild mushrooms and various creepy crawlies. The parents of the campers said the chance to explore nature is an invaluable

part of growing up, and a strong first step to being aware of the world around them.

Other films in the Southern Exposure series tackle issues of biodiversity, water pollution and land development.

One video details the overrun wild hog population and how the animals upset the ecosystem, terrorizing endangered turtles and plant life that are unique to Alabama.

Another video shined a light on the illegal dumping of untreated sewage into Big Prairie Creek along Uniontown, Ala. Black Warrior Riverkeeper Nelson Brooke showed the unacceptable levels of E. coli bacteria that were being discharged directly into the public water, and how there weren’t even proper warnings until citizens spoke up.

“People tend to see environmental consciousness as this fringe, hippie thing,” Obenda said. “But these issues affect legitimately everyone. It’s for everyone who lives in Alabama, there’s no hidden agenda.”

The films will soon be available online at southernenvironment.org. Read “Water Laws Still Murky” on page 4 to learn how the Southern Environmental Law Center is influencing Alabama policy today.

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Film fellow Katherine Gorringe films a dam site outside Tuscaloosa. Dams block migrating fish from swimming upstream to their spawning grounds and prevent oxygen from flowing downstream. Releasing water from dams to allow oxygen flow and building fish ladders to help fish travel upstream are critical steps that help keep the river a liveable habitat for the many species who call it their home.

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UNTAPPED // ALABAMA BREWFEST REVIEW

By the end of another sun-warmed September, the 80-degree weather and inevitable pumpkin spice craze has set in for Tuscaloosa after a long summer.

It's time to get out the crimson sweaters and some locally brewed apple cider— along with a hefty, much-anticipated selection of foam frosted Autumn beer.

One of the newer events in downtown Tuscaloosa consists of two 4-hour nights dedicated to sipping local, nationally renowned and even home-brewed beer from Alabama.

If there was a untapped niche for the good ole' “roll tide” southern folk, it would certainly include of some sort of alcoholic content. Sharing a beer—everywhere from a porch to a dinner table to a bar celebration—is practically a tradition for most people around here.

Being only the second year for Alabama Brewfest, the L & N Station area used for the festival was crowded to the brim with second-year festival goers as well as a fresh round of drinkers.

The year's Alabama Brewfest unleashed an ultimate taste test for such a beer-savvy community, and this September 27-8 was nothing short of a glass-raising success. Friendly community members ranging from 21 to retired ages all mingled over a common love for beer, and there wasn't a volunteer all night that didn't have a convincing smile to offer.

The scope of beers varied from hoppy to fruity and coffee-dark to light.

The numerous choices offered were impressive for such a new festival.

In addition, when everyone's bellies were too full, there was a guitar-riffing, boot-stomping band to provide just the relaxing atmosphere needed for tastetesting breaks. Delicious local food and free water bottles were also offered, so that people could refuel and start down a fresh line of booths as needed.

There is no better way to kick off the start of a crisp fall then with a “Brewfest” designed tasting glass in hand for the night. Though the Tuscaloosa

community isn't something people always talk about, there is a certain southern etiquette to the sweet, still-toowarm weather that welcomes the newly emboddied support for not only Alabama's brewing companies, but also for southern regional breweries that have sprouted up over the last few years.

Spending a Friday or Saturday night debating on hoppy IPA's and tangy, pear-infused ciders is nothing anyone of age can call short of a good time. The Alabama Brewfest 2014 was a well-put together, welcoming opportunity to meet the locally-invested Tuscaloosa community and highly popular brewing companies. A few hours of taste-testing can increase beer knowledge for anyone, so that the next time there are too many delicious drafts at a restaurant, a favorite will be in mind. It's a well-worth $30, and it's a cheaper route to deciding personal favorite drafts for a night downtown.

Check out Alabama's Brewfest next year for the most popular and locallyinvested beer choices. No one goes home thirsty. Visit Druid City Brewing Company across from Tuscaloosa City Hall, downtown on 14th Street.

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

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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>>> wine REVIEW | J O N R O G E R S

LINDEMANS BIN 50 SHIRAZ, AND EL BOMBERO RED // FLAVORFUL ern region of Aragon and is reported to be “home to some of the best value reds in Spain, if not the world," according to WSJwine.com.”

The appearance of this wine was a deep plum color and had a purple ring evident around the rim of the wine in the glass. Most notable were the legs. Of the 50+ reviews I’ve done so far, this wine was (by far) the most leggy wine I’ve seen.

The wine actually had two sets of legs.

The first set fell shortly after swirling the wine in the glass. There were many and they were thick. Very slow to fall. After Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz is part of the Bin Series from Lindemans South Eastern Australia vineyards.

Lindemans was started by Henry Lindeman. He planted the first Shiraz vines in 1843 and after some serious setbacks, finally began exporting wine in 1858.

Since 1976, the chief winemaker of the Bin Series has been Wayne Falkenberg.

Fast forward to this review, which is of the 2010 vintage.

According to the bottle, Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz can be served “young and fresh.”

In other words, no need to cellar this wine.

Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz alcohol content 13.5% per the bottle.

In the glass, this wine is dark purple in color with a purple ring around the outside.

Legs are thin and slow to form, hinting at a lighter red wine.

Fragrance of Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz is potent when poured and evident from afar. Most prevalent were notes of blackberry. There was no strong evidence of alcohol in the aroma.

The wine’s flavor was smooth with overtones of ripe plum and dark cherry.

Some mellow spice was also noticed.

Tannins were quite present and noted on the sides and tip of the tongue.

Mouthfeel of Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz was considered woolen, but not off putting.

The wine had a long and lingering mouth coating finish.

Overall this is a very enjoyable Shiraz.

It’s not too complex but it does have a lot of presence. It’s rich and really hits you over the head with its flavor.

I tasted this wine with a friend of mine and he suggested that this wine might go well with a dessert that’s not overly sweet.

Like a pastry or non-sugary apple pie.

Price for Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz about $6.00. A good value for a very flavorful wine. Give it a try!

El Bombero 2011 from Spain, is a complex red. I received this wine as part of my Wall Street Journal Wine Club (WSJwine. com) order and it is one of their customer favorites.

El Bombero 2011 comes from 60 year old low yielding Garnacha vines. Alcohol content of El Bombero 2011 is 15% by volume, which is comparatively higher than many of the red wines I’ve previously reviewed.

This wine comes from Spain’s northeast-

10

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

>>> RESTAURANTS |

W here to E at in T uscaloosa

BREAKFAST / LUNCH 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.

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 Panera Bread 1800 McFarland Blvd *402 | Tuscaloosa // 366.8780 Quick Grill 1208 University Blvd | The Strip | Tuscaloosa // 342.0022 Rama Jama’s 1000 Bryant Dr // 750.0901 Closest restaurant to Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Sweet Home Food Bar 2218 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 764-9346 Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

about 20 seconds or so, another set of legs started to descend from the same level in the glass and they were also slow to fall.

Very interesting!

Aroma of the El Bombero 2011 was immediately noticed after removing the cork.

It was strong and very aromatic. I would describe it as organic and earthy with notes of dark berries and a hint of spice. Also, the wine’s 15% alcohol content by volume was very evident and presented as a notable sting in the nose.

That’s a whole lot going on and we haven’t even tasted the wine yet!

On the palate the wine was warm, dry and unique. Flavors were of more dark berries and just a little earthy spice. Truthfully, given the heaviness I was expecting from the legs and aroma, I was surprised at how delicate the taste was. I was expecting to be knocked over by fruit but was rewarded with restraint in the wine’s flavors.

Tannins were pert and present. I noticed them all over, but a little more so in the cheeks and on the tongue. A little bit of a wool-like mouthfeel, but not off-putting.

The El Bombero 2011 finished long and the alcohol was unexpectedly muted, which was good.

Overall I really enjoyed this wine and am looking forward to more experiences with Spanish Garnacha. One of the things I did while tasting this wine was to take in the aroma while swirling the wine in my mouth. This resulted in a very complex and layered tasting experience that was truly enjoyable. Also, I noticed that this wine softened quite a bit after a few minutes of air. This would probably be a great wine to decant before drinking.

Lastly, I think this is the perfect wine for someone who likes to pick apart and analyze the different elements in wine. This wine makes it easy to do so. Highly Recommend!

More wine reviews by Jon Rogers at www.honestwinereviews.com

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 Mariachi 3520 McFarland Blvd E |Tuscaloosa // 409-8585

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.

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.

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 // 556.4112 Eclectic menu, extensive wine list. Dinner at Kozy’s is a romantic experience complete with candlelight and a roaring fireplace. |killionrestaurants.com/kozys/ Twin 3700 6th St, Tuscaloosa in Tuscaloosa Country Club | 758-7528 | http://twinpowersactivate.com Certified USDA Prime Steaks; specialty Sushi and cocktails.

Hours: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; 5 – 10 p.m.

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.

El Rincon (2 locations) 1225 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 366.0855 1726 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 330.1274

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.

Fernando's Mexican Grill 824 McFarland Blvd E | Northport // 205.331.4587

ITALIAN

Iguana Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 752.5895

Avenue Pub 405 23rd Avenue

Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill 2001 New Watermelon Rd | Northport // 342.3378

Broadway Pizzeria 2880 Rice Mine Road Northeast Tuscaloosa, // 391.6969

LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871

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

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 Taco Mama 2104 A University Blvd, Tuscaloosa 409.8173

FINE DINING Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 248.9370 Monday - Thursday 5-10 p.m. and Friday - Saturday 5-11 p.m.

Steak, seafood, & sushi specialities. Daily specials: Monday $20 Bottles of Wine; Tuesday - Ladies Night 1/2 off Domestic Beer and House Wine, Select $5 Martinis, $2 off Select Sushi Rolls for Everyone; Uptown Wednesday - $6 Uptown Shrimp; Featured Cocktails and $20 Bottles of Wine.

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

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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 Avenue Pub 405 23rd Avenue // Tuscaloosa The pub offers a different menu for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Feature foods include pineapple French toast, pork sliders, and a house burger which changes daily. The drink menu features specialty cocktails, local pints, bottled beer, and wine.

Monday through Friday 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Saturday Noon – 11 p.m., Sunday Noon p.m. – 9 p.m.

Big Daddy’s Cafe 514 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 759.9925 The Blue Plate Restaurant (Was Northport Diner) 450 McFarland Blvd, Northport // 462-3626 Brumfield's Restaurant 4851 Rice Mine Road | Tuesday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., and Sunday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Buddy’s Ribs & Steaks 2701 Bridge Ave | Northport // 339.4885

>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

Buffalo Wild Wings 2710 McFarland Blvd // 523.0273 Mon–Wed 11 a.m. - midnight | Thurs–Sat 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Chicken Salad Chick The Shoppes at Midtown & Essex Square, Northport | Said to be the very best chicken salad that can be found anywhere. www.chickensaladchick.com

through Saturday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. till 9 p.m. (Sunday Brunch 10:30am-3pm).

Chili’s 1030 Skyland Blvd | Near McFarland Mall // 750.8881 Fax: 758.7715 // www.chilis.com

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.

Dave’s Dogs 1701 McFarland Blvd E | University Mall // 722.2800 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.

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 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 vegetables Mon–Fri 10:45 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Buffalo Wild Wings 2710 McFarland Blvd. East | Tuscaloosa // 523.0273 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar

Innisfree Irish Pub 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 Tuscaloosa Burger & Seafood Company 1014 7th Ave. | Tuscaloosa // 764.1976 Over 160 craft beers.

Tue. - Thu 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri - Sat 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Large selection of decadent desserts 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 Dickey's BBQ 9770 Alabama 69; Midtown; and 13544 Hwy 43 North at Rose Blvd. in Northport. Great Texas Barbecue. | 344.6500 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 (2 locations) Highway 11 | Cottondale // 554.1815 3420 Alabama 69 | Northport // 333.5848 Menu: thepotterygrill.com 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

T-Town Café 500 14th Street, Tuscaloosa | 759-5559 |www.ttowncafe.co Mon - Fri: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sat: 5 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sun: 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Logan’s Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd | next to Sams // 349.3554 Steaks, ribs and spirits

Tuscaloosa Burger & Seafood Company 1014 7th Ave. | Tuscaloosa // 764.1976 Over 160 craft beers.

Tue. - Thu 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri - Sat 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Large selection of decadent desserts.

Longhorn Steakhouse 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 345-8244 #412

SPORTS GRILL

FAIRHOPE 51 PALE ALE // STAYS TRUE TO THE STYLE

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

The Southern Dining Room Grill (Behind Ryan's) 4251 Courtney Dr, Tuscaloosa 331-4043

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

>>> beer review | B R E T T R E I D

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

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

Twin Restaurant 3700 6th Street |Tuscaloosa | 758-7528 A full service restaurant specializing in Sushi, Prime Steaks, made fresh daily pasta, and whiskey oriented cocktails. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. // Former Tuscaloosa Country Club

Buffalo Phil’s 1149 University Blvd | The Strip // 758.3318 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar Billy's Sports Grill Historic Downtown Northport / 879.2238 Good food, beverages and family friendly Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday

Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 248.9370 Monday - Thursday 5-10 p.m. and Friday - Saturday 5-11 p.m.

Steak, seafood, & sushi specialities. Daily specials: Monday $20 Bottles of Wine; Tuesday - Ladies Night 1/2 off Domestic Beer and House Wine, Select $5 Martinis, $2 off Select Sushi Rolls for Everyone; Uptown Wednesday - $6 Uptown Shrimp;

SEAFOOD

Great beer can come from places where you would least expect, and in Alabama, that is more than accurate. Look at Tuscaloosa, a city that is practically floating in cheap light beer, but you have two breweries producing craft beer that could stand up against many beers of the style from anywhere in the country. Look at Florence, a small college town in northwest Alabama and home to Singin’ River Brewing Co.: you can go there and drink one of the best IPAs ever made. Literally all over the state of Alabama, we have great breweries that make great beer, and the small southern Alabama town of Fairhope is no exception. The only brewery in South Alabama, Fairhope Brewing Company is currently brewing some of my favorite beer in the state. Started by five people with a mission to bring great beer to lower Alabama, Fairhope has since expanded to Birmingham taps at a few places (no packaging yet). I was recently at Hop City and decided to bring home a growler of their ever popular Pale Ale: Fairhope 51. Here are my thoughts: Named Fairhope 51 for being the 51st recipe entry in head brewer Dan’s beer notebook, The beer pours a burnt orange with about one inch of white bubbly head that fizzles out quickly, but leaves some nice lacing on the glass as you drink. I was too into this beer after being poured, so I didn’t get a great picture of the head.)

Hop forward, this Pale Ale has a distinct aroma that is strong in the way of floral and citrus hops with strong notes of malt.

Some earthy hops come in once the beer warms to room temperature, but blended with the fruitier hops and the floral notes, it makes for a fantastic scent.

Fairhope 51’s taste essentially follows the nose, powered by floral hops and a strong malt flavor, this American Pale Ale stays true to the style. Starting with the first sip, you get a lot of floral hop notes on the front end. As it continues, you really begin to pick up on the maltiness that really evens out the flavor and makes it somewhat savory. Toward the end, there is a strong presence of citrus hops that

delivers a bitterness quality that I personally think all Pale Ale style beers should have. Some things I picked up on but wasn’t sure about were some spice flavors I picked up on toward the end after the beer warmed a bit. If you let the beer rest on your tongue and allow yourself to analyze the flavors, you begin to notice that the flavors of the beer don’t really change.

Other than the fact that the bitterness comes in late, a consistent flavor is something that Fairhope can pride itself on and, to me, are what make a great beer. If I can take a sip and have the same flavor from front to back, I have had something that not many brewers can do. Just something to think about next time you’re drinking one of your favorite beers.

When I bought the beer, I was expecting the mouthfeel to be similar to what it had been the times I had it before, and it was right on the money. Perfectly carbonated to complement the beer in every aspect. I was so happy to see consistency in the beer in other than the flavor. Medium body with a smooth, but still bubbly, carbonation and a session quality unlike most Pale Ales. This is one beer that I could definitely drink a few of and still feel great. They don’t really start to settle in your stomach until you drink about four or five, trust me.

Overall, this will always be one of those beers for me. If I see it, I drink it.

Fairhope is run by great people who make great beer, and I’m so glad that they’re finally starting to expand North. Hopefully soon we can get more than one style at a time and really show people how great their beer is. So, like I said, if it’s available, I always get it, and I suggest you do as well if you enjoy classic American Pale Ales. Actually, even if you don’t, you should still try it, because it’s not often you drink something so solid.

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

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

11

>>> R estaurant review | c indy huggins

COCO'S IN NASHVILLE // LIFE-CHANGING BITE Planet Weekly has been producing local restaurant reviews for many years. So in a way, this is a history-setting precedent because it's the first restaurant review outside of Tuscaloosa County in 14 years.

It has nothing to do with running out of Tuscaloosa and Northport restaurants to write about, but everything to do with the reviewer taking an impromptu trip to Nashville, Tennessee. Many Tuscaloosians have shared with me their love story of Nashville’s music, art, scenery, and cuisine. In the heart of singer songwriter central sits a culinary abundance of five star restaurants. My very good friend, Whitney, took me to the far side town, avoiding the tourist traps, to indulge where the locals go.

On Charlotte and 51st sits a family owned and operated authentic Italian market and restaurant, CoCo’s. An open patio looks out over an artificial green turf where customers can par take in a game of Bocce. An Italian ball sport, Bocce resembles America’s version of bowling.

The front of house is occupied by a small Italian market. To the left is the hostess stand guarding the crowded dining room.

Our names were taken with a promise of a short wait time of 45 minutes. We did as everyone else did and joined the line to the bar. A silent giggle came to me as I listened to two employees bicker in Italian. With glasses full of intoxicating white wine, we peered through the boxes and jars of imported groceries. Sitting at the bottom of one shelf was a jar of Nutella; correction, an 11 pound jar of Nutella.

I’m still not sure how a hazelnut spread relates to Italy or Italian cuisine, but this is what pulled my attention. Mostly, the dietitian in me wanted to calculate the total number of delicious calories. By the time I finished converting kilograms to pounds and pounds to grams, it was time to be seated. If you are curious this particular 11 pound jar of hazelnut spread had around 27,000 calories.

The dining area was dimly lit and

12

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

Featured Cocktails and $20 Bottles of Wine.

6521 Alabama 69 | 752.5444

Red Lobster 2620 McFarland Blvd // 553.8810 McFarland Plaza Shopping Center

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

Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar 4851 Rice Mine Rd NE #460 // 462.3399 McFarland Plaza Shopping Center & Temerson Square Tuscaloosa Burger & Seafood Company 1014 7th Ave. | Tuscaloosa // 764.1976 Over 160 craft beers.

Tue. - Thu 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri - Sat 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Large selection of decadent desserts.

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.

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

filled with families, business men, young couples, and friends. The atmosphere is what I would expect at dinner time in an Italian family. There was an intoxicating happiness among the customers, or was that my wine? None the less, it was obvious everyone was having an enjoyable evening. Our small table sat only two to three feet away from the next. An older couple welcomed us as my friend complimented their food choices and I attempted not to knock one of them in the head with my purse. Snug at the table, I gazed the menu. It was only natural that us two Americans stick with what we know, bruschetta, pizza, and lasagna. The Bruschetta was plated beautifully. Triangle sliced ciabatta held layers of cheese, tomatoes, onion and basil. A balsamic glaze was delicately drizzled across the plate.

The immediately bite was life changing.

The crisp bread gave way to the juicy tomatoes and bold sweet balsamic. All attempts to eat like a lady failed. I placed my knife and fork aside and went all hands in.

The main entrees where delivered before we finished the appetizer. I immediately handed my empty plate to Whitney for my serving of lasagna. The Lasagna was an endless dish of warm, gooey goodness. Yes, that is a technical term used by the most respected food critics. It was so soft, as if the noodles had been melted along with the cheese.

The layers had fused together giving ever bite perfect balance. The margherita pizza was dressed on a thin white crust with a single layer of red tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese and basil leaves.

Judging solely by the sheer simplicity of this pizza, I could tell it was going to be a “party on my palate,” as Whitney would say. The sweet basil complimented the salty mozzarella cheese and sauce so well. Both dishes were so delicious it was hard to pick which bite to take next. So, I compromised with dipping my pizza in the lasagna. This is when the food coma set in. Perhaps this is my “happy place?” No, my “happy place” is found in Tuscaloosa.

Though an enjoyable evening with good food and even better company, nothing tastes as good as coming home. Until my next bite, happy eating!

CoCo’s Italian Market and Restaurant is located at 411 51st Ave N, Nashville, TN 37209 Cindy Huggins, RDN, LD is a registered dietitian nutritionist and local “foodie.” Follow her on Twitter @DietitianCindy

Chang’s Chinese Restaurant 1825 McFarland Blvd N // 391.9131 China Fun 2600 University Blvd | Alberta City // 553.2435

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 McAlister’s Deli (2 locations) 101 15th St | Tuscaloosa // 758.0039 3021 Tyler Dr | Northport // 330.7940 Sandwiches, salads and spuds www.mcalistersdeli.com

China Garden Hwy 69 S | Hillcrest Center // 758.0148

Momma Goldberg’s Deli 409 23rd Ave // 345.5501 www.mommagoldbergs.com

Hot Wok Express 6751 Alabama 69, Tuscaloosa // 758.0148

Newk's 205 University Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 758.2455

Lee Palace 6521 Highway 69 S // 391.9990 Open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Schlotsky’s Deli 405 15th St. E // 759.1975 schlotskys.com

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

Which Wich University Blvd.// Downtown Tuscaloosa // Mon – Sat 10:30 – 9 // Sunday 11 – 7 // Fun atmosphere,fresh ingredients, great sandwiches. 764.1673

Pearl Garden 2719 Lurleen Wallace Blvd | Northport // 339.0880

COFFEE SHOP

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.

Barnes & Noble 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa 349.6366

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

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 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

17th Street and Greensboro Avenue. Authentic Chicago style foods. Italian Beef Sandwiches, Chicago Rib Tips, and Chicago Style Pizza.

California Underground 13552 Highway 43, Northport | 339.8660 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 | 1www.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 a.m. | Sun 11:30 a.m. - midnight Pizza 120 50115th St. East | 561.6853 Pizza Palace Buffet

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 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.

Dunkin' Donuts 2520 Stillman Blvd. |Tuscaloosa// 349.3400 McCorvey Dr. | Tuscaloosa // 348.4041 www.dunkindonuts.com 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 In Love Patriot Center 7402 Highway 69 South Phone Number: 764.9173 Fax Number: 764.9228 Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday & Saturday 11 a.m.-10 pm.

Yogurt Lab 920 Paul W. Bryant Dr Ste 200 | Tuscaloosa // 347.9522 Yogurt Mountain 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 342.1484

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

"THE EQUALIZER" // MEMORABLE ACTION ✭✭✭ AND THE CHARISMA OF DENZEL

Although he neither dons a mask nor fires silver bullets, Denzel Washington does virtually everything else that The Lone Ranger would in the Columbia Pictures’ big-screen adaptation of the vintage television crime series “The Equalizer.”

For the record, CBS-TV aired 88 episodes of “The Equalizer” between 1985 and 1989. Acclaimed British actor Edward Woodward of “Becket” fame toplined this hour-long dramatic series as Robert McCall, a Good Samaritan vigilante who strode the mean streets of New York City.

As a former operative with an enigmatic government espionage agency, McCall applied his skills both as a sleuth and a shadow to help desperate people who could turn to nobody else in their hour of hardship. Bespectacled, sophisticated, and erudite, McCall relied on his brains more often than his brawn. Nevertheless, he could surprise his adversaries with swift, physical action when required. Best of all, McCall never charged his woebegone clients a cent for his services.

Now, a quarter of a century later, “Training Day” director Antoine Fuqua and “Expendables 2” scenarist Robert Wenk have appropriated only the character’s name and the show’s basic premise.

Nevertheless, “The Equalizer” is a pretty exciting saga. Unlike Woodward’s McCall, who was a widower with a son, Washington’s McCall is a widower who works at a Home Depot sort of emporium. In adapting the series, Fuqua and Wenk have fashioned an above-average, suspenseful, but wholly outlandish crime thriller that takes McCall back to square one after he left ‘the Agency’ under mysterious circumstances, but before he established his altruistic private eye business. As much as I loved the television series, I think Fuqua and Wenk have done a splendid job of reshaping it to accommodate two-time Oscar winning actor Denzel Washington, who played reasonably similar characters in both “Man on Fire” and “Safe House.”

After a car bomb nearly claimed his life while working for an inscrutable government outfit, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington of “Unstoppable”) has retired

to the relative obscurity of Boston, Massachusetts. Everybody knows him now as a jovial, hard-working, mega Home Mart store employee. McCall prefers to immerse himself in a good novel at a nearby diner that artist Edward Hopper could easily have immortalized on canvas. Indeed, the quiet and unobtrusive McCall lives a simple life without anybody to clutter it up, until he befriends a naïve, 16-year hooker, Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz of “Carrie”), who hangs out at the same diner when he reads. Teri is not a conventional hooker, but prostitute who works for the local Russian mafia. Eventually, she offends these brutal dastards that possess all the subtlety of grizzly bears, gets badly beaten up, and lands in the local hospital. McCall is swift to retaliate. He dispatches five tough guys as easily as if he were stomping cockroaches. Typically, before he goes into action, our hero sets the stop watch and then checks it afterward. When he isn’t intervening on Terri’s behalf, McCall helps an obese Hispanic coworker, Ralphie (Johnny Skourtis of “Noise Matters”), achieve his dream of becoming a security guard. Poor Ralphie eats all the wrong foods and lacks discipline until McCall coaches him and transforms the affable oaf. When Ralphie has to quit his Home Mart job to help out his mother (newcomer Luz Sanchez), who is being preyed on at her restaurant by corrupt Boston cops, McCall not only helps them clean up their store but also straightens out the dirty detectives who were extorting cash from her as well as other business owners.

Naturally, since Fuqua and Wenk want us to feel sympathetic toward McCall, they pit him against the most psychopathic mob enforcer on the planet. Teddy (Marton Csokas of “The Bourne Supremacy”) appears to be a fastidious, dapper, and inoffensive fellow who utters each syllable of each word with hopelessly precise clarity. When he arrives in Boston, the local corrupt cops treat him as if he were a sissy. It doesn’t take them long to learn that he is far from effeminate. Teddy behaves like an efficiency expert as he launches his investigation to see who had the

audacity to kill five members of his mob.

Boston detective Masters (David Harbour of “The Green Hornet”) escorts him to a rendezvous with the local Irish mob boss, Little John Looney (Shawn Fitzgibbon of “Mystic River”), who displays nothing but contempt for the Russians. By the time, Teddy has smashed Little John to a bloody pulp, Masters has had to gun down both of Looney’s heavily-armed henchmen. Teddy scrutinizes anybody who entered the bar where the five Russian gangsters died and kills at least one person who lies to him about the people involved in the incident.

Eventually, he figures out by studying surveillance camera footage that Robert McCall is the most likely suspect. As ruthlessly murderous as he is, Teddy isn’t prepared to tangle with a man like McCall who is far more merciless.

Director Antoine Fuqua is no stranger to action thrillers. His credits include “The Replacement Killers,” “Bait,” “Shooter,” “Tears of the Sun,” “Training Day,” “Brooklyn's Finest,” and “Olympus Has Fallen.”

He stages with style to spare each combat sequence, and he must have relished Guy Richie’s “Sherlock Holmes” movies because he imitates the way that Sherlock inventoried his adversaries when McCall appraises

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the Russian mobsters. Some of McCall’s weapons, including the power drill and the nail-gun, have been used before in “Lethal Weapon 2” and “The Driller Killer.” Rated R for strong bloody violence and language, including some sexual references, “The Equalizer” isn’t as gory as it could have been. Nevertheless, Fuqua delivers several memorable action scenes, and Washington is so charismatic you will stand up and cheer as he whittles down the villains. Marton Coskas qualifies as a truly creepy villain, too. Clocking in at 132 minutes, “The Equalizer” takes its time, leisurely building up to its bullet-riddled, Tarantino-style climax.

By the time he has exacted vengeance on these homicidal fiends, McCall emerges as a larger-than-life power who could scare the Grim Reaper.

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

BACKROAD ANTHEM OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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>>> E X P L O R E A L A B A M A | J E R O M E A D A M S

Photos: Jerome Adams

TRAVELING TO THE PAST // THE MOUNDVILLE NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL

Though the era when Native Americans were the only souls in North America lasted thousands of years longer than the civilization that exists here today, this age of history is mostly absent from everyday life in Alabama.

Looking around you might ask: where are the Indians or Native Americans now? The answer is that they are still with us in our genes both as "full blooded" and "mixed." Many of us claim Cherokee or Choctaw or other tribe ancestors. Geneticists even run tests that reveal traits in our DNA that probably came from Native Americans somewhere along the line of our ancestry.

The Native American Festival at the Moundville Archaeological Park is an opportunity to learn about the overlooked culture, art and history of this land’s original inhabitants.

Living history presenters will demonstrate housing, cooking, fire making, trading, clothing,

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pottery making and other aspects of this heritage. They will describe the

lives of people in ancient, prehistoric times, and relay written and oral histories that come from the area.

Some will demonstrate the making of "points" (spear and arrow heads) using the same types of tools that ancient craftsmen employed.

Others will show the making of and uses of the atlatl, spear, and long bow put them all together for a hunting demonstration. Many of the presenters will be real Jones Archaeological Museum Indians or claim some of that ancestry as their own. of the mounds. The three sisters: corn Unlike the Indians of the western (maize), squash and beans, a perfect, part of our country, the Indians of the plentiful triad that Native Americans Southeast lived in semi-permanent planted together. Stalks of corn prostructures and were not typically novided a structure for the beans to climb madic. The compound of the Moundville Archaeological Park was originally enclosed in a two-mile palisade of logs set on ends in a ditch around one side of the city, bordered on the other side by the Black Warrior River in a roughly square pattern.

The decayed long ago but the trench has disturbed soil that still holds evidence of a path closely studied and mapped out by archaeologists. Many citizens of that city (name unknown) lived inside the fortifications while others lived outside along the Black Warrior River, at least as far north as the river banks across from the University of Alabama, as revealed by evidence from archaeological digs.

The people of the region and squash were planted around the farmed, hunted and gathered food to bottom of the corn plant, maximizing the provide for the community. space on one, low mound of dirt. Once The famous Rattle Snake Disk on Europeans came to the area and grew display in the Jones Archaeological plants in rows, the Indians adopted that Museum at the park was crafted from technique and their iron and steel tools. sandstone, apparently quarried in anCopper was the only metal available to cient times at an out-cropping near UA and transported via canoe to the park area. A farmer near the park uncovered the disk in one piece while plowing his field, and the artifact made its way to the Smithsonian National Museum in 1883. The entwined snakes and open eye engraved on the disk have been interpreted by some archaeologists to represent a pathway to an inter-dimensional world.

A "Three Sisters" demonstration garden has been planted near one

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Continued from previous page

the Native Americans at that time, and that metal was too soft to be used for plowing equipment.

Much effort has been used toward preserving the compound and any artifacts that may be found there. However, many items have been removed with poor or no scientific process before being legally preserved.

Moundville Archaeological Park can be found by traveling south on Highway 69 for about 10 miles from Tuscaloosa's city limit. The Native American Festival time for visiting is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday. Traditionally, many 4th grade students have looked forward to the festival as a field trip, so many youngsters will be touring with teachers and parents. Of course, students of all ages will be exploring the park as well. Many adults in Alabama may remember the trip as a fun day away from school and an introduction to the world of the original inhabitants of this area.

Enjoy and explore Alabama with a trip to Moundville Archaeological Park October 8 through 11 and learn about the culture of the Native Americans who once lived there. If you were to go, make sure to pay a visit to the Jones Archaeological Museum that has been renovated recently with many new and beautiful displays! Much of the Native American culture may be lost, but what is left at Moundville can offer an education experience and a look into the ancient past of North America.

>>> A R T | S T A F F R E P O R T

SEWING IT UP // WITH TIN MAN CHARLIE LUCAS

Kentuck Art Center is exhibiting the work of renowned outsider artist Charlie Lucas. During the month of October, guests can peruse the mixed-media show

Sewing it Up which will be featured in the T.E.M.P. Gallery located in the Clarke Building. Lucas has been exhibiting his work with Kentuck for thirty years. Sewing

it Up is an ode to the Tin Man's connection with the Kentuck Festival of the Arts and the late Georgine Clarke. Kentuck Art Center is located in historic downtown Northport

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OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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>>> EVENTS CALENDAR |

THE SOUTHEAST'S LARGEST

NOTE: All events listed here have phone numbers in the 205 area code unless otherwise indicated.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 KENTUCK ART NIGHT WHEN: 5 – 8 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: 503 Main Ave, Northport PHONE: 758.1257 LINK: kentuck.org DESCRIPTION: As on the first Thursday of every month, Kentuck opens its doors to visitors for a night of art, music, food and fun. Enjoy a live band, food from the cob oven, and the wonderful art of resident Kentuck artists.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE! WHEN: 7 p.m.

COST: $10-20 WHERE: Bama Theatre PHONE: 758.5195 LINK: tuscaloosachildrenstheatre.com DESCRIPTION: Tuscaloosa Children's Theatre presents Schoolhouse Rock Live!

A cast of 60 will help a first time teacher prepare for his class. Hear your favorite educational tunes like “Conjunction Junction” at the historic Bama Theatre Friday through Sunday.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4

TUSCALOOSA BELLES HERITAGE COSTUME 5K RUN/WALK WHEN: Runners 8 a.m./Walkers 8:30 a.m.

COST: $35 WHERE: Old Farmers Mkt. parking lot, Greensboro Ave. PHONE: 758.2238 LINK: historictuscaloosa.org DESCRIPTION: Proceeds from this day of fun and exercise go to the Tuscaloosa Belles Scholarship fund. Forms can be picked up and returned to the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society office, Wagner's run/walk in Midtown or from a current Tuscaloosa Belle. Children under 10 can run for free! Meet at the Old Farmer’s Market parking lot at the base of Greensboro Ave. THE DINING ROOM WHEN: 7:30 p.m – 12 a.m.

COST: $10 WHERE: 348 Stadium Dr PHONE: 348.3800 LINK: theatre.ua.edu DESCRIPTION: A highly acclaimed play featuring six actors in over 50 roles. The New York Times called it “an overlapping and amusing anthology of vignettes about family and food, inherited and disowned values.” See the talents of University of Alabama’s finest actors at Allen Bales Theatre 7:30 p.m. Saturday or 2 p.m. Sunday.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5

HANDS ON A HARD BODY WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: $14 to $22 WHERE: 9500 Old Greensboro Rd. PHONE: 391.2277 LINK: theatretusc.com DESCRIPTION: For 10 hard-luck Texans, a new lease on life is so close they can touch it. Under a scorching sun for days on end, armed with nothing but hope,

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humor and ambition, they'll fight to keep at least one hand on a brand-new truck in order to win it. In the hilarious, hardfought contest that is Hands on a Hard Body only one winner can drive away with the American Dream. Showing at BeanBrown Theatre through Oct 5.

5TH STREET VINTAGE MARKET WHEN: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: 4150 5th St. Northport PHONE: 345.4763 LINK: 5thstreetvintagemarket.com DESCRIPTION: Curated by This Ol' Thing Vintage, Grace Aberdean Habitat Alchemy and DJ Tom Kat Kitten, 5th Street Vintage Market brings a one of a kind shopping experience to the area. We will feature dozens of dealers from the region who specialize in vintage goods, handmade items and vinyl records. Concessions available on site.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6

GLIMPSES OF THE GREAT WAR WHEN: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: Bama Theatre, 620 Greensboro PHONE: 758.5195 LINK: cac.tuscarts.org DESCRIPTION: The items on display offer a glimpse into the lives of the men who fought in the conflict and their families and friends left behind. Included in the exhibit are letters, pictures, scrapbooks, as well as uniforms and other military paraphernalia. The exhibit will be open through the entire month of October.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7

LEND ME A TENOR WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: $10 WHERE: Marian Gallaway Theatre, 348 Stadium Dr. PHONE: 348.3800 LINK: theatre.ua.edu DESCRIPTION: This beloved show tells the story of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company and the inconvenient death of the lead and opera superstar. Join the University of Alabama theatre troupe Tuesday through Sunday.

BAMA ART HOUSE // "MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT" WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: -$7, general admission -$6, students and seniors -$5, Arts Council members WHERE: Bama Theatre PHONE: 758.5195 LINK; bamatheatre.org/bamaarthouse DESCRIPTION: Stars: Colin Firth, Emma Stone, Antonia Clarke, Natasha Andrews.

Synopsis: A romantic comedy about an Englishman brought in to help unmask a possible swindle.

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

LITTLE MILO IS WAY CUTE // AND KID IS COOL

Everybody loves Milo!! This little wiggle worm is Milo, a 4 year old male Dachshund mix. He has a unique coat for a Dachshund, which is why we think he may be a mix. Milo has a smooth white coat with black and tan markings and his ears are a little longer, so he may have some terrier or beagle in him. He is small, weighing only 10 pounds and this is fully grown. Milo is very friendly and will automatically climb into your lap! He is rather energetic and a bit of a talker, so he may not do well in an apartment. He is okay with other dogs, but he doesn’t really like hyper ones.

He is better with calm dogs. Milo should be fine with children over 10, not younger due to his small size. He will require a fenced in yard if left outside due to the “hunting dog” nature in him. We have started on his crate training. Milo is up to date on his vet care, neutered, heartworm negative and is micro chipped. He is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. Milo is such a fun, sweet dog who is ready for a permanent lap to call his own! If you are interested in giving Milo the forever home he wants and deserves, visit the Humane Society of West Alabama at humanesocietyofwa.org or call us at 554-0011.

This handsome silver guy is Kid, an adult male Silver Tabby. He's approximately 3-5 years old. He has gorgeous chartreuse eyes! Kid was a little cautious at first, but he got the hang of our adoption center pretty fast. He only slightly socializes with other cats, but he absolutely loves receiving attention from us!! He's very vocal, and doesn't mind speaking his mind about something: when the food bowl is empty, when someone's at the door, or when he looks out the window and sees a bird! He's a talker! Kid is pretty low-energy and calm around people, and he would warm up even more in a home environment. He could do very well with another cat or two, but we aren't sure how he'd feel around a dog. We'd recommend a trial adoption for a home with a dog. Kid is negative for FIV/FeLK, current on vaccinations and neutered. Kid is hoping to find a person he can bond with! Visit our cat adoption center or contact us to meet Kid! If you are interested in giving Kid the forever home he wants and deserves, visit the Humane Society of West Alabama at www.humanesocietyofwa.org or call us at 554-0011.

Benefits of Volunteering

Make a difference in the lives of homeless pets and work towards a community that is more humane for animals.

Develop new skills while exploring the field of animal welfare.

Meet new people with similar interests.

Acquire experience for future endeavors.

Enjoy a wagging tail or a soft purr.

Get the satisfaction of knowing you have helped an animal in need.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8 OPERA’S NEW HOME WHEN: 12 – 1:15 p.m.

COST: $25

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>>> E V E N T | K E V I N L E D G E W O O D

HANNAH MILLER and JESSICA CAMPBELL // OCTOBER ACOUSTIC NIGHT AT THE BAMA

Vocalists Hannah Miller and Jessica Campbell will be featured in a performance on Acoustic Night on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 7:30 p.m. at the Bama Theatre. A native of Dothan, Ala., Hannah Miller left home after graduating from high school to attend Mars Hill College. She and husband James then moved to Columbia, S.C. where she begin her music career. Seven years later, they moved to Nashville, Tenn., where they now reside.

Her literate style blends blues, folk and gospel which, when led by her disarmingly intimate alto, feel immediately familiar and compelling. Numerous magazines and blogs have taken note with reviewers referencing such as names as Neko Case, Feist, Rachel Yamagata, Liz Phair, Brandi Carlile and Basia Bulat. She has held her own when opening for Langhorne Slim, Landon Pigg, Elizabeth Cook, Josh Joplin and Shannon Whitworth and has cultivated a passionate following around the country.

Jessica Campbell was born in Catawba, North Carolina, where she grew up singing gospel, country and show tunes

and also participating in competitions. She recalls singing the National Anthem at ballparks, rodeos, gyms, football stadiums and anywhere else that would host her.

“There weren’t many concert opportunities in my hometown, so I made the most out of what was around,” she says. She attended college and graduate school at Middle Tennessee State University outside of Nashville while continuing her musical journey writing songs, recording, performing at Dollywood, singing song demos, leading music at church and touring. Her three albums, “III,” “The Anchor” and the “Sail and Great Escape,” have achieved widespread acclaim.

Presented by The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa, the project features both solo and ensemble performances of a wide range of acoustic music throughout the calendar year in the intimate setting of the theatre’s Greensboro Room. Cover charge is $5 with a full service bar available.

For more information about the artists visit hannahmillermusic.com or jessicacampbellmusic.com.

THROUGH OCTOBER 5TH

>>> EVENTS CALENDAR | WHERE: 240 Paul W. Bryant Dr PHONE: 348.3002 LINK: bcc.ua.edu DESCRIPTION: Paul Houghtaling, UA School of Music Paul Houghtaling, Professor of Voice and Opera Theater will show us around the new venue, Bryant-Jordan Hall, on the UA Bryce campus. He will also discuss the upcoming opera season.

Cost includes annual membership fee for various exclusive opera events.

WATERCOLOR CLASS WHEN: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

COST: $75 WHERE: 2200 Rock Quarry Dr PHONE: 562.3230 LINK: tcpara.org DESCRIPTION: Have you always wanted to learn to paint but were afraid to try? An award-winning instructor uses a step-bystep method of teaching that has proven successful for many years. For students of all abilities, register online and attend classes at the Phelps Center. Advanced classes also available.

PHONE: 758.5195 LINK: pinkboxburlesque.com DESCRIPTION: Join the Pink Box Burlesque at the Bama Theatre for their 7th Annual Masquerade: the 7 Deadly Sins!

Live Jazz, Burlesque, Singing, Dancing, Comedy and the Death of our #1 Fan! Wear your best masquerade attire - or don't - and join them for a night of heavenly beauty and sinful delights!

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE WHEN: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: 13040 Eugenia Faucett Dr, Northport PHONE: 562.3230 LINK: tcpara.org DESCRIPTION: Clean out your closets and take advantage of the convenience of our indoor gym to sell your unwanted items. Booths sell out, so please register early. Shoppers, come for great bargain hunting rain or shine! It’s like an indoor flea market with free admission to shoppers.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9

WADE HALL’S LIBRARY WHEN: All day COST: Free WHERE: 711 Capstone Dr PHONE: 348.0506 LINK: lib.ua.edu DESCRIPTION: Wade Hall’s personal collection of books allows researchers to see the full flowering of American writing through nearly 17,300 titles that date from 1779 through the 1990s. These books encompass a wide range of genres including poetry, prose, travel narratives, religious tracts, abolitionist material, government documents, and cookbooks. The collection will be in the J. Wray and Joan Billingsley Pearce Grand Foyer of Gorgas Library until Saturday Oct 11.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

JOHN DEPOL, WOOD ENGRAVER WHEN: All day COST: Free WHERE: 711 Capstone Dr PHONE: 535.0772 LINK: bookarts.ua.edu DESCRIPTION: Beautiful printed works, including wood engraved prints and original endgrain wood blocks, by 20thcentury American artist John DePol. The exhibit ends Saturday, Oct 11 so be sure to visit Gorgas library’s second floor exhibition hallway to take a look at these historic creations.

NATIVE AMERICAN ALABAMA AND TUSCALOOSA WHEN: 5:15 – 6:30 p.m.

COST: $5 non-members WHERE: 1305 Greensboro PHONE: 758.6138 LINK: historictuscaloosa.org DESCRIPTION: The Tuscaloosa Preservation Society presents another intriguing installment to their ongoing Sundown Lectures Series. Meet at the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion for light refreshments and a wealth of historical knowledge.

HOMEGROWN ALABAMA FARMER’S MARKET WHEN: 3 – 6 p.m.

COST: Prices vary WHERE: 812 5th Ave PHONE: 210.9621 LINK: homegrownalabama.ua.edu DESCRIPTION: Support local farmers an d treat yourself to freshest produce.

Homegrown Alabama invites you to the lawn of the Canterbury Episcopal Church every Thursday through October 30.

JENNIFER HAMNER: THE BRUSH OF KUSH WHEN: 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: 600 Greensboro Ave PHONE: 758.5195 LINK: bamatheatre.org DESCRIPTION: Attend the reception for Hamner’s exhibit at the Bama Theatre Junior League Gallery, hosted by the Arts Council of Tuscaloosa. Check out the previous issue of Planet Weekly for an introduction to the seven stunning paintings on display.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Jimmy Welborn, "Mr. Piggly Wiggly"

THE SOUTHEAST'S LARGEST

PINK BOX BURLESUE MASQUERADE WHEN: 9 – 11 p.m.

COST: $18/$15 in advance WHERE: Bama Theatre

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13

"LITTLE WOMEN" AUDITIONS WHEN: 6 p.m.

COST: Free WHERE: 9500 Old Greensboro PHONE: 391.2277 LINK: theatretusc.com DESCRIPTION: Based on the beloved novel by Louisa May Alcott, Little Women interweaves the lives of Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy March. It’s a perfect show for the holiday season. Auditions open to all ages 8 up at the Bean-Brown Theatre.

PUBLICIZE YOUR EVENT. CONTACT

planeteditor@yahoo.com

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

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

17

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

JIMMY CLIFF // NEW ORLEANS //

KACEY MUSGRAVES //

BIRMINGHAM // OCTOBER 4

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2

BIRMINGHAM Stone Temple Pilots featuring Chester Bennington, Iron City

HUNTSVILLE Hall and Oates, Von Braun Concert Hall

ATLANTA Sam Smith, Tabernacle

NASHVILLE St Lucia, Mercy Lounge/Cannery Ballroom

NASHVILLE A Day to Remember, Bridgestone Arena

NEW ORLEANS Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, House of Blues

NEW ORLEANS Jimmy Cliff, House of Blues

HUNTSVILLE The Dawn Osborne Band, Lowe Mill East Dock ATLANTA Rise Against, Tabernacle Cowboy Mouth, Center Stage Guaco, The Buckhead Theatre You Me at Six, The Masquerade NASHVILLE Chromeo, Marathon Music Works Wilson Phillips, Wildhorse Saloon

saturday, OCTOBER 4

BIRMINGHAM Kacey Musgraves, The Alabama Theatre Flow Tribe, Sloss Furnaces MONTGOMERY The Springs, Alley Bar HUNTSVILLE Terry McNeal, Moe’s Original BBQ ATLANTA Blue Oyster Cult, Variety Playhouse Allen Stone, Center Stage NASHVILLE Jerry Lee Lewis, Ryman Auditorium NEW ORLEANS Imelda May, House of Blues

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5

NEW ORLEANS

Katy Perry, New Orleans Arena Policia, One Eyed Jacks

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6

MONTGOMERY Luke Bryan, Ingram Farms

DMX / JA RULE / RAKIM // ATLANTA // OCTOBER 11

// OCTOBER 10

Beck, House of Blues Amos Lee, Tipitina’s St Lucia, Republic New Orleans

BIRMINGHAM Broken Bells, Iron City Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Alys Stephens Center

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

DEBBIE BOND / TRUDATS // HUNTSVILLE

OCTOBER 6

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7

BIRMINGHAM SoMo, Iron City

NASHVILLE Taking Back Sunday, Mercy Lounge/Cannery Ballroom ATLANTA Coheed and Cambria, Tabernacle Gaslight Anthem w/ Against Me, The Buckhead Theatre Paolo Nutini, Variety Playhouse NEW ORLEANS Interpol, House of Blues Jenny Lewis, The Civic Theater Bonobo, Republic New Orleans

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9

BIRMINGHAM The Wonder Years, Sloss Furnaces ATLANTA Citizen Cope, Tabernacle

BIRMINGHAM The Head and The Heart, Iron City

MONTGOMERY Widespread Panic, Montgomery Performing Arts Center ATLANTA Lykke Li, Tabernacle NASHVILLE Alan Jackson, The Ford Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame Mewithoutyou, Mercy Lounge/Cannery Ballroom Erasure, Nashville War Memorial Auditorium

NEW ORLEANS St Vincent, House of Blues

ATLANTA New Found Glory, The Masquerade

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

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

Centennial Olympic Park 265 Park Ave W NW 404.223.4412

Minglewood Hall 1555 Madison Ave 901.312.6058

18

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13

BIRMINGHAM EOTO w/ Little Raine Band, Sloss Furnaces

BIRMINGHAM Whitechapel, Sloss Furnaces

MONTGOMERY The Chocolate Affair, Aposha Café and Hookah Lounge

ATLANTA Sonata Arctica, The Masquerade

HUNTSVILLE Debbie Bond and the Trudats, Lowe Mill East Dock Widespread Panic, Von Braun Concert Hall ATLANTA Machine Head, The Masquerade Drive By Truckers, Tabernacle

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14

BIRMINGHAM WWE Smackdown, BJCC Chromeo, Iron City

MONTGOMERY Sally Mayes, Crosby Theatre ATLANTA Phantogram, Tabernacle

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15

NEW ORLEANS Boy and Bear, House of Blues

ATLANTA Brand New, Tabernacle

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

NASHVILLE Motley Crue, Bridgestone Arena Josh Turner, Ryman Auditorium

BIRMINGHAM Whitey Morgan & the 78’s, Sloss Furnaces

ATLANTA DMX, Ja Rule and Rakim, Atlanta Civic Center King Diamond, Center Stage Flying Lotus, Tabernacle NEW ORLEANS Paul McCartney, New Orleans Arena Fitz and the Tantrums, House of Blues

>>> 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.

Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St NE 404.881.2100

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12

BIRMINGHAM Rodrigo y Gabriela, Iron City

NEW ORLEANS

Acoustic Café 2758 County Hwy 9 205.647.3237

OCTOBER 16

NASHVILLE Ludacris and Iggy Azalea, Vanderbilt Memorial Gym

NASHVILLE Casting Crowns, Bridgestone Arena Loretta Lynn, Ryman Auditorium

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8

PAUL MCCARTNEY // NASHVILLE //

Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St 334.481.5100 The Nick 2514 10th Ave S 205.252.3831 Sloss Furnaces 20 32nd St N 205.324.1911 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre 2200 Encore Pkwy 404.733.5010

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

Von Braun Center 700 Monroe St SW 256.551.2345 WorkPlay 500 23rd St S 205.380.4082 Zydeco 2001 15th Ave S 205.933.1032

NEW ORLEANS Buckcherry, Howlin’ Wolf

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16

BIRMINGHAM Dan and Shay, WorkPlay Theatre Mary Mary, Alys Stephens Center ATLANTA The War on Drugs, Tabernacle MONTGOMERY Legacy, The Mellow Mushroom

NASHVILLE Paul McCartney, Bridgestone Arena NEW ORLEANS Jerrod Niemann, House of Blues

WRITERS WANTED CONTACT PLANETEDITOR@YAHOO.COM

>>> LOCAL MUSIC | WHO'S PL AYING AROUND TOWN

GOV'T MULE // BAMA THEATRE

// OCTOBER 6

FUTUREBIRDS // JUPITER BAR

// OCTOBER 9

WHO SHOT LIZZY? // MIKE'S PLACE

// OCTOBER 11

THURSDAY OCTOBER 2

Junkyard Kings / Dank Sinatra, Green Bar Uri, Rhythm & Brews

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4

Stereosparks, Green Bar Jason Miller Band, Rhythm & Brews

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6,

Gov't Mule, Bama Theatre

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8

Lettuce and Gramatik, Jupiter Ben Rector, Bama Theatre

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9

Futurebirds, Jupiter

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

Streaming Video Now Available From TPL

Frank Foster, Jupiter Johnathan East, Mike's Place

Watch videos from the Tuscaloosa Public Library anytime, anywhere!

Streaming video is now available to enjoy from the library's website. This new service, powered by OverDrive, is free for users with a TPL library card. Visit digitallibrary.tuscaloosa-library.org to browse for eBooks and digital audiobooks in addition to streaming video.

The growing catalog of digital feature films, documentaries, educational, children's favorites and more can be viewed on most mobile and desktop devices.

No late fees!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

Who Shot Lizzy?, Mike's Place

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16

David Nail and Native Run, Jupiter

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17

Debbie Bond / Carroline Shines, Green Bar

HAVE YOUR LOCAL MUSIC EVENT LISTED FREE. 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

Rhythm & Brews // 750-2992

1831 // 331-4632

Capones // 248-0255

Gnemis Top Shelf Tavern // 343-0020

The Jupiter // 248-6611

Rounders // 345-4848

Alcove // 469-9110

Carpe Vino // 366-8444

Grey Lady // 469-9521

The Legacy // 345-4848

Bear Trap // 345-2766

Catch 22 // 344-9347

Harry's Bar // 331-4151

Mellow Mushroom // 758-0112

Big Al's // 759-9180

Copper Top // 343-6867

Houndstooth // 752-8444

Mike's Place // 764-0185

The Booth // 764-0557

Downtown Pub // 750-0008

Innisfree // 345-1199

Mugshots // 391-0572

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

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

19

Photo: UA Athletic Photography

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

ALABAMA'S OFFENSE // TURNING THE TIDE He loves explosive offenses, but Kiffin will throw running backs a bone. Reggie Bush. LenDale White. Curtis McNeal. All three backs rushed for 1,000 yards at USC. Alabama’s averaging 258.5 yards rushing with 10 touchdowns. Kenyan Drake has six total scores. Derrick Henry leads the team in rushing with 320 yards and two touchdowns.

Receivers benefit the most from an explosive offense. Anytime a receiver can make their stat sheet look big; they will smile. Spreading the wealth is a staple of Kiffin’s offense. Each player has to contribute something in order for the scheme to work.

Steve Smith. Dwayne Jarrett. Robert Woods. Marqise Lee. All four players bought in at USC and recorded 1,000+yards receiving.

Amari Cooper called Kiffin’s system “player friendly” in the offseason. The junior has been a leader this season and a beneficiary of Kiffin’s offense. Cooper has equaled his output from 2013 (45 catches, 736 yards, four touchdowns), but his eyeing a second 1,000-yard season receiving. He’s recorded 43 catches for 655 yards and five touchdowns in 2014.

Coach Saban is defensive minded, but the 62-year-old isn’t anti-offense. In Tuesday’s press conference, Saban said he’s been begging the offensive coordina-

Secure tackles. Create pressure.

Force turnovers. Alabama’s head coach Nick Saban changed the culture with defense. Be physical. Impose your will.

Make them quit. These are the words that fuel players to achieve a high standard each week.

It was Brandon Deaderick, Marcell Dareus, Terrence Cody, Dont’a Hightower, Rolando McClain and others that terrorized opposing offenses. Alabama struck fear at opposition with an iron fist. Under Saban, the Crimson Tide hasn’t allowed over 14 points to an opponent since 2008 (14.3).

Defense was its main course, but now Alabama’s offense is starting to exert its dominance.

Lane Kiffin was hired as the Tide’s offensive coordinator on Jan. 10, 2014.

Alabama had three offensive coordinators under Saban, prior to Kiffin’s arrival. The Crimson Tide averaged 33.8 points per game before Kiffin. Alabama’s averaging 42.0 points and 594.2 yards per game in 2014.

Kiffin’s system is based on getting playmakers the ball in space. It worked for two seasons at Southern California (2005-06), and it’s paying off at Alabama.

Kiffin works well with quarterbacks. Matt Leinart, John David Booty and Mat-

20

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

tors around Alabama to open its offense up since he’s been here.

“In my opinion, we have not arrived as an offense,” Saban said. “And he [Kiffin] would be the first to tell you that.”

He provided praise toward Jimbo Fisher, but Saban then tackled an obvious elephant in the room, a Lane Kiffin hire question.

“I got beat up like a drum for (the hire), but now it’s great,” Saban said. You guys [media] don’t have any consequences for what you say and do.”

Alabama’s offense has operated more under center this season than in previous years. Saban is finally getting what he wanted in Kiffin’s high-powered offense.

Saban said the chemistry between he and Kiffin has always been good.

“It’s not like we fell in love and fell outta love,” Saban said.

The Tide’s offense is energized with Kiffin calling the shots. Here is table breaking down Alabama’s success offensively under Kiffin versus other coordinators.

The Crimson Tide made ends meet in the past with great defense and little offense. Regardless of tradition, it’s adapted to today's reality. Offenses nowadays are scoring 40+ points a game. Defense is great, but it’s meaningless without an effective offense behind it.

thew Barkley can attest to that. All three quarterbacks tossed for 3,000+ yards at USC, and Leinart won a Heisman Trophy in 2004.

He’s worked with pocket passers, but Blake Sims is the first mobile quarterback to run Kiffin’s system. He slowly worked Sims into the rotation with short routes, but Kiffin opened up the playing calling against Florida. Sims had 242 passing yards in two seasons as a backup quarterback. He’s recorded 1,091 passing yards, 10 total touchdowns and a 190.8 efficiency rating in Kiffin’s system.

Run the ball. Eat clock. No turnovers.

A methodical process that helped yet hindered Alabama’s offense.

Crimson Tide fans weren’t fond of Jim McElwain’s play-calling, but a national title in 2009 pacified them. McElwain was a run-heavy offensive coordinator. Alabama was ground and pound, with sprinkles of play action passes to maintain balance.

McElwain’s four-year strategy (200811) guided Alabama to 33.2 points per game. The stat looks good on paper, but loses its appeal when compared against teams that average 40+ points per game.

Kiffin’s system is designed to spread defenses out and create mismatches on the field. Once this is achieved, a quarterback can decipher who it wants to target.

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

Photos: UA Athletic Photography

>>> HIGH TIDE | G A R Y H A R R I S / W V U A S P O R T S D I R E C T O R

BAMA RECRUITING UPDATE // ALABAMA FEELS LIKE HOME TO ELITE O. T. // COACHES ARE A BIG FACTOR great state, great university, great coaches, great players and a great system academically. I'd say the same for Ohio State."

Regarding a leader, Prince says, "I think it's even among the four schools right now. I'll probably wait until near the end to make a decision."

Lance Thompson

A top priority for the Crimson Tide staff is to add a couple of offensive tackles to the 2015 class. One of the prime targets is Isaiah Prince, a 6-7, 280-pounder from Eleanor Roosevelt HS in Greenbelt, MD. Prince, who has numerous offers, lists a top four of Alabama, Florida, Maryland and Ohio State.

Prince recently set an official visit to Alabama for January 16. He has not yet scheduled any other officials visits.

Some think the Tide might have the inside track for the big OT. "I like the coaches and the players," Prince says of Alabama. "It kind of reminds me of my school. It feels like home there. It's not much different there than it is here in Maryland, so I feel comfortable down there. I feel like I could go down there and feel right at home. I went down there this summer, and I'm excited to go back on my official."

Prince is being recruiting by UA assistant Lance Thompson. Recently, Thompson was in Greenbelt checking on Prince.

"Coach Thompson is a great coach," Prince says. "He keeps it real. He doesn't just tell you what you want to hear. He's a great coach and a great person. He cares about the players on and off the field.

"I also communicate with Coach Cristobal, the o-line coach, regularly. We have a great relationship. I know that he's a great coach and he's a great person, too."

Prince says his other finalists have also impressed him.

"Maryland is the hometown school. I know I could be comfortable there," he says. "Florida is similar to Alabama —a

RONNIE HARRISON Top safety remains solid to Bama Ronnie Harrison has gotten his senior season off to a fast start. The Tide's 6-2, 204-pound safety commit from University HS in Tallahassee, FL has helped his team to a 2-1 record by doing just about everything.

"I'm playing quarterback, safety, and returning punts and kickoffs," Harrison says. "I've thrown for over 200 yards and rushed for over a hundred yards in every game. I think I've got five touchdowns passing and five rushing. On defense, they don't really throw much in my direction, but I had a pick return for a touchdown that was called back, and I have about 15 tackles."

Harrison, who flipped his commitment from North Carolina to Alabama back in July, plans to be in Tuscaloosa for the Texas A&M game on October 18.

"I'm excited to get back up there," he says. "I've watched every game they've played so far on TV. We're just now getting our quarterback situation settled.

Last game against Florida, we came out shaky. We had to get settled down, but once we did in the second half, we pulled away from them."

"I think the defense definitely looks like it's getting better every game," Harrison says. "The first game against West Virginia, we looked a little shaky at corner. We were getting eaten up at corner.

But we started fixing it against Southern Miss. Against Florida, we looked pretty strong with Tony Brown at corner. We looked a lot better. Landon Collins at safety is a baller. Everybody knows that.

He's the leader of the defense and one of the leaders of the team."

Some Tide fans have been concerned about Harrison's taking visits to nearby

FSU for games this season. But Harrison says there's nothing to worry about.

"I talk with the Alabama coaching staff, Coach Thompson, every day," he says.

"We have a good relationship. My commitment is still strong."

MONTRELL CUSTIS The sky is the limit for Custis Montrell Custis is one of the few Tide commits not to have made it to Tuscaloosa for a game this season. But that's not because the 6-0, 180-pound cornerback from Lovejoy HS in Hampton, GA is having second thoughts about his decision.

"He's still solid to Alabama. He hasn't said anything otherwise," says Lovejoy head coach Edgar Carson. "We've just been busy with our season and he hasn't been able to make it over there. We have an open date on the weekend of October 17 (when Alabama hosts Texas A&M), and I'm sure he will make it over there that weekend."

Lovejoy is 3-1 this season. Custis is a big reason for the fast start.

"Montrell is doing pretty good right now," Carson says. "As a coach, you're always pushing for a player to do a little bit more, but he's doing a pretty good job

Coach Cristobal

right now. He's one of the better athletes on our team.

"We've got a big game coming up this Saturday against Mays High School. He will be facing some pretty good competition. We've played him at safety and at corner this year. He'll be at corner in this game coming up. He does a good job at corner getting a jam on his guy and he does a good job coming out of his breaks. He closes on the football real well."

Carson expects Custis to play corner at Alabama.

"He has rare size and rare speed," Carson says. "He can run. He's physical. I think that adds up to playing corner on the next level. I think he's got a lot of upside as a corner. The sky is the limit."

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

Photo: TouchdownAlabama.net OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

21

>>> T H E F L AT S C R E E N | C A R A B R A K E

THREE GOOD ONES // "GOTHAM," "HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER," "FOREVER" Pilot episodes of shows are often hit or miss; either the show will grab the attention of the viewer immediately and keep it, or the show will be just a passing thought as they change the channel. This fall, however, television has two home runs: "How to Get Away With Murder" and "Gotham".

First up is "Gotham", which aired on September 22, showed a pre-Batman Gotham, when the dark avenger was just a boy, freshly scarred from his parents’ murder. Detective Harvey Bullock and his new partner, Detective Jim Gordon, are put in charge of the case-much to Bullock’s dismay. Haunted by Gordon’s promise to young Bruce Wayne that he would find his parents’ killer, Bullock and Gordon go on a chase, following shallow leads and come up empty, until they find a piece of very incriminating evidence in the apartment of a suspect. This could be the big break they needed to crack the case, or could it be false evidence planted by mob manager Fish Mooney? This and other plots made ‘Gotham’ a smash in my book. The characterization of the classic Batman franchise characters is superb, and the villains in their baby stages are timebombs that I can’t wait to see explode. Verdict: "Gotham" is definitely a show to catch this fall. You can watch it on FOX network, Mondays at 7 pm, or on the website ate www.fox.com/ gotham.

television

Next up is "How To Get Away With Murder" from veteran director Shonda Rhimes, who brought us ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Scandal’. The pilot episode, which aired on September 25th, opens with four college students arguing about getting rid of evidence, which is a confusing opening at first. Then, we’re introduced to Annalise Keating, a hardened defense attorney who teaches at a law school. She nicknames her class “How To Get Away With Murder”, and her reputation precedes her as she puts the class through the ringer to help her win a case. How far will the students go to win? Well, we find out that sex, lies, and illegal acts aren’t off the table. A roller coaster from start to finish, "Murder" starts with a punch, and ends on a cliffhanger so mysterious, one has to watch the next episode to get their fix. “How To Get Away With Murder” has definitely caught my attention and killed it on the network. Catch the show on ABC, Thursdays at 9 pm.

“Forever” aired on September 22nd and will definitely last on television. Dr. Henry Morgan is a star medical examiner in New York, with a heavy secret-he’s immortal.

As he helps the police solve cases, Henry is also trying to solve another mystery: the mystery of his own immortality. Henry gets a scary wake-up call in the form of a phone call from an old “friend” who claims to know his secret because he’s also immortal. With this on his shoulders, and a curious but trusting detective on his tail, Henry has a lot on his plate.

Thankfully, he has his best friend and confidant, Abe, to help him out. Starting with a bang-or a crash, rather-and ending with more questions than answers, “Forever” is a good contender to be a smash hit. Catch it on Tuesdays at 9 pm on ABC.

22

OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

>>> NEWS | CO N T I N U E D FR O M PAG E 4

MURKY WATERS // CONT'D how much water is being taken out,” Reid said. “Yes that require a lot of monitoring.”

The executive director of the ARA, Cindy Lowry, stood by the main tenet that watersheds stay strongest when they are tampered with as little as possible. This means manmade dams should be kept to a minimum.

“The most dangerous thing we can do to out rivers is move further and further from their natural state,” said Cindy Lowry, the Alabama Rivers Alliance executive director. “We just need to maintain the natural state while taking enough for business and health.”

Stakeholders also made suggestions for how to get the community involved in discussing water policy. Ideas for a survey to gauge awareness and public opinion were bounced around, along with the idea of a state school to educate government staff on water and the relevant laws.

One concerned Alabamian at the symposium, Alina Coryell, said that science teachers could be incorporated into the movement for sustainability to get Alabama students involved in the discussion.

“I think of children as stakeholders,” Coryell said. “Even If they don’t have a lot of influence, because they don’t have any information or they don’t vote or have money, they might be able to reach creative solutions.”

Stakeholders were enthusiastic about the prospect of having a say in state policy; Reid asked for a show of hands of who would participate in the interest groups and almost everyone agreed. Reid turned the question around, though, and asked who would be willing to attend a meeting every week. Only the symposium speakers raised their hands.

While public opinion is key to producing a comprehensive plan, lack of funds makes it hard to continuously rely on volunteers.

Trickling Toward Solutions The Southern Environmental Law Center sent attorney Sarah Stokes to propose a list of 17 interest groups, covering everything from industry, hydroelectricity and thermo power to water quality, seafood and conservation. Each group will send a representative to debate each part of the proposed plan, making sure no one is left out of the conversation.

Stokes pushed to give the plan a deadline to avoid an endless loop of tinkering and red tape. She pointed out that without presentable data on how much water the state has and needs, the Supreme Court has the power to redistribute our resources to Georgia or Florida if those states show a need for more water.

“Having a concrete date with set deliverables is not a rush to judgment,” Stokes said. “It’s just a date with goals.”

On the other hand, Black Warrior Riverkeeper Nelson Brooke spoke wearily of attempts to streamline the process.

“I think it’s important to have advo-

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

cates, not just a bunch of people nodding their heads,” Brooke said. “We need to not just put a rubber stamp on what the power structure wants.”

Mayor Walt Maddox made an appearance at the symposium to voice his support for comprehensive water management. He said that while such laws are hard to pass because of the expense, preserving Alabama’s resources is necessary to the state’s success.

“I know what it means to come back year after year proposing the same policy you see as logical,” Maddox said. “You’re on the right side of history, and you’re on the right side of good policy.”

Maddox recalled the most tense moment of the chaos following the 2011 tornado, when Jimmy Junkin of the town’s Michael Brannon, aka Michal B Reddy Water and Sewer Department came to his office with news that the town’s water mains may have been compromised.

Meghan Steel When homes were leveled and bodies were being recovered, there was a very real possibility that Tuscaloosa’s water was unsafe to drink.

“Those 24 to 48 hours were some of the most troubling of my career,” Maddox said. “If you want to shut down a community, take away its ability to provide clean water.”

Maddox said two of the most important laws he has passed were banning development on 2,000 acres of land surrounding Lakes Nickel and Harris, and requiring septic tank inspections to ensure water quality. Neither bills were particularly wellreceived by the public, but Maddox sees them as major parts of his legacy.

The saga will continue on Oct 9 at Birmingham Southern College, where the Alabama Rivers Alliance will assemble a blue-ribbon panel of experts to describe the best and worst decisions made by other states’ water management plans.

Anyone is invited to learn or speak out about the future of Alabama’s resources.

>>> HOROSCOPES |

weekly overview

>>> PUZZLEMAniA |

Sudoku

The tendency to want to indulge could get stronger this week, particularly as Venus glides into your zone of health and wellness.

Though you know you should eat wholesome food, it might be difficult to keep up the habit. In addition, you may need to be very diplomatic with someone who is treading on your toes, though how long you can keep this up is another matter. Mercury turns retrograde in your relationship sector, which could help you get to the heart of any tricky issues.

The cosmos has arranged the perfect sky for you to reach an important goal and claim the success you deserve. Be on the lookout for an offer that could make a positive difference to your plans.

Plus, you're in the perfect situation to close deals and negotiate opportunities. However, Mercury will begin its retrograde phase over the weekend, which means certain interactions may be open to unexpected changes. But a lively link hints that a social event may be full of surprises.

Career opportunities and financial affairs may perk up early in the week, so keep an eye out for an unexpected yet very welcome offer.

Matters on the home front seem pleasantly relaxed, too, as Venus dances into Libra. You may feel motivated to do more entertaining or invite guests to stay and enjoy your cozy comforts. However, don't rock the boat over the weekend, as someone's response may be less than pleasant. An unexpected chance to grab a new job or contract could be yours this weekend.

Regarding new ideas and enterprising opportunities, you may be able to cherry-pick one or two special ones this week. The willingness to take a risk could pay off, especially if you're starting a business or expanding one you already have. You have what it takes to make the best of any situation and turn it to your advantage. However, Mercury turns retrograde on Saturday, which could complicate matters at home, particularly if you're thinking about buying, selling, or remodeling your place You may be tempted to splurge on one or two luxuries when Venus sashays into your money zone on Monday. However, you're likely to be generous with family and loved ones, too, especially with presents that you know they'll adore. Your mind should be sharp and incisive with Mercury in Scorpio and your communication sector - perfectly positioned for resolving the problems and mysteries of life. Go easy from Saturday, however, as Mercury enters its retrograde phase, which could scuttle urgent plans.

The move of Venus into Libra could set you thinking about your image and getting a makeover. If you feel a little stuck in a rut in this area, some words with a savvy pal could result in you getting a new haircut or clothes. However, go easy where finances are concerned this week, as Mercury turns retrograde on Saturday. It helps to keep receipts, especially for major purchases, as there's more than a passing chance that you'll need to get a refund.

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're in a natural phase when it helps to relax and recharge. This week Venus joins the Sun in your spiritual sector, enticing you to involve yourself in activities that nurture your inner longings and desires. Mercury rewinds in your sign at the same time and will be retrograde for the next three weeks. Although this can be a sign of delay, it often brings opportunities to resolve tricky issues. Plus, an offer you can't resist may come your way this weekend.

Will romance happen out of the blue? This week's alignment hints that it might. If you're seeking a love adventure, hang on to your hat because a sizzling experience may be coming your way. Meanwhile, your social life heats up as Venus sashays into Libra, enhancing your chance of fun get-togethers, parties, and celebrations. Mercury's retrograde phase, starting this weekend, takes place in your spiritual sector. It might entice you to meditate and improve your relationship with yourself. Watch your dreams, too!

You may hear about unexpected moneymaking opportunities, and you could have success with various negotiations, too. The week ahead spotlights career issues and the value of mixing with folks who may be able to help your cause. Mercury's move into your social sector should enhance your options here, but because it retrogrades starting Saturday, you might hit a wall if you're trying to arrange an evening out. A little ingenuity could save the occasion. It pays to listen to an intuitive hunch, too!

A lucky connection or contact could be something to smile about at the start of the week, especially as it might involve a top-notch deal.

Relationships seem very positive and generally upbeat, especially as Venus glides into Libra to oil the wheels of commerce. This week might contain other surprises, too, as the people you connect with seem to have your best interests at heart. Mercury's retrograde phase could temporarily stall a plan, but in this case a delay could work in your favor

Work and career opportunities continue to look positive, so much so that you may be tempted to make a bold move. If an offer comes your way, this isn't the time to dither - it might not be around long. Your best bet is to run with it and learn as you go. You might be tempted to splurge on luxuries or invest in art or beautiful items just for the sake of having lovely things around you. If traveling, expect one or two delays.

A key relationship could get even cozier as Venus glides into Libra. If you need to negotiate a deal or be extra diplomatic, you'll find it easier to be so. Lucky opportunities may show up, too, so keep your eyes peeled.

However, the weekend needs a little more care, as you could have a difference of opinion with someone in authority. Mercury rewinds, too, bringing potential delays. Plus, if you're going on a long journey, it would help to expect the unexpected.

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COLORLESS TSUKURA TAZAKI… // ENGROSSING AND COMPLEX

Across 1. Caspian seaport 5. Mining tools 10. Not at all close 14. ___ o'clock scholar 15. Drink rudely 16. Chest rattle 17. Brendan Behan book 19. 1102, in dates 20. Octo plus one 21. Greeted intrusively 23. Pit-___: heart sound 26. Extensions 27. The ___ Massacre of 1856 32. Gibbon or gorilla 33. More snaky 34. Bayou cooking style 38. Slangy agreement 40. Accumulation on the brow 42. ___ moth (pale-green insect) 43. Money, of sorts 45. Vanity Fair photographer Leibovitz 47. Austrian affirmatives 48. High school infatuation 51. Quit work formally 54. 1999 film directed by Ron Howard 55. Canine 58. "___ lovely as a tree": Kilmer 62. Earth: Comb. form 63. Gold digger's "mine" 66. French vocalist Edith 67. A job for an emcee 68. Drape holders 69. Prefix with starter 70. Hoards 71. Twist Down 1. The pig picture 2. Solar disk 3. Songwriter Jerome

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4. Vote out 5. Ad Council ad, e.g.: Abbr.

6. "___ be darned!"

7. Havana's island 8. Ray who created the McDonald's empire 9. Surveillance device 10. Nuke treaty, say 11. De tail 12. Deportation victim 13. Actors Tim and Daphne Maxwell 18. Toledo tidbits 22. Of a poem.

24. Leatherworkers' tools 25. Pescadores neighbor 27. Ponies up 28. 11-member cartel 29. Sign of weeping 30. "Lovergirl's" Marie 31. Timely fruit 35. Amulet 36. Fingernails: Sp. 37. 'A Beautiful Mind' subject John 39. Got along well 41. 20-20, e.g.

44. "___ My Heart" (1913 hit) 46. Outward: Anat.

49. Goal of some Greeks and Cypriots 50. Short campsite 51. Harvests 52. Eagle's home 53. "Love Story" writer 56. Spicy ___ roll (popular sushi) 57. 'Design on a Dime' network 59. Do too much of 60. Edible root 61. Popular computer adventure 64. "Blessed ____ the meek..."

65. Dnepr feeder SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMANIA CROSSWORD ON PAGE 27

Haruki Murakami is an author known for building fantastical and jarringly realistic worlds and placing them in the form of a typical bildungsroman. His newest novel, Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage (CTTHYP) focuses on the story of a man named Tsukuru Tazaki that is similar to other Murakami protagonists. Essentially if you want a book that breaches a decent middle ground within Murakami’s style, Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage is the book for you.

The protagonist of the novel is introduced as an average upper middle class man living in present day Tokyo, Japan. His name is Tsukuru, which is a homophone for “to make or to build” in Japanese. He is utterly fascinated by railroad stations and is suffocated by the hollowness he feels from being abandoned by his four best friends during his second year of university.

Like in many of his novels, Murakami sweeps the audience into the privileged world of the Japanese upper that aid the protagonist not only spiritually, middle class. The protagonist explores but tend to provide pleasure for them sexuhis “colorless” disposition by recounting ally as well. Women tend to create a sense his childhood and how he became very of utility within the otherwise complex world close friends with four other kids who were within his novel. similar to him socioeconomically. However, Within Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Tsukuru is the only member of the closeYears of Pilgrimage, Sara is no different. knit friend group who lacks a surname Sara is an older, more sophisticated woman related to a color. The audience is able to that seems to baby the protagonist into view the process of Tsukuru, disengaging gaining a backbone. While most Murakami from their near cult-like friend group and protagonists tend to be very passive until attending a school away from their homepushed into a dramatic situation, Tsukuru town in Tokyo. This causes their ritualistic seems particularly helpless due to the sheer Widespread Panic friendship to become strained and eventuamount of time he allowed his loneliness ally Tsukuru is shunned from the group to fester. Likewise, many times during his without any explanation during his sopho“pilgrimage” the purpose of him seeking the more year of college. truth is lost because the protagonist seems As a thirty-six year old man, Tsukuru to be interested only in how his spiritual opens up to Sara, a woman he drawn to progress can assist him in his relationship more than any other woman he has ever with Sara. In fact, the large turning point encountered. He confesses his emptiat the end of the novel is still centered on ness from his lack of close-knit structured Tsukuru and Sara’s relationship. friendship to Sara. She suggests that he Although this book can be considered go on a pilgrimage to find them. As the a coming-of-age novel, it can be argued novel progresses her desire for him to it is more of a romance. For Tsukuru’s connect with his former friends becomes pilgrimage is really in order to get closer more urgent as she begins to acknowlto Sara. However due to the complexity of edge the lack of “color” within Tsukuru’s novel, one can never be completely sure spirit seems to be blocking Sara and Tsuhow far a character’s action leans towards kuru’s relationship from progressing. Sara a certain outlook. This opaque way of gives Tsukuru an ultimatum: reconnect viewing characters provides a very realisand fix his relationship with his former tic seed of doubt within the reader's mind. friends and be with her, or live a colorless Overall, I give this book a 4 out of 5. For life alone. Sara essentially forces Tsukuru it was an engrossing and complex read, into a pilgrimage to better understand his however, the world was very small and sorrow, not unlike, Norwegian Wood. constricting. It failed to properly satisfy Pretty much in every Murakami novel, a the strong romantic thread provided within female influences the male protagonist into this novel. In addition, Murakami was gaining a better spiritual understanding. It able to create a smooth and lifeless world should be noted that within Murakami’s uni- based in a rich urban center that was both verses women tend to be hypersensitive to believable and ubiquitous. It is definitely the supernatural world and subconscious worth checking out. dealings within character’s minds. They almost become these prophet-like figures Follow Camille on Twitter @thewittygirl

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>>>B O O K S | S TA FF R E P O R T

SOUTHBOUND AUTHOR TO APPEAR AT BOOK SIGNING AT B&N

Southbound, by Scott B. Bomar, chronicles the birth and growth of Southern rock, a tradition rooted in blues, soul, and country music that has outgrown the region of its origin to impact the music scene worldwide. Bomar follows the genre’s ascension from the early southern architects of rock and roll, such as Elvis Presley and Little Richard, through the era when the Allman Brothers Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd dominated the scene, up to its enduring legacy that continues to resonate with listeners today.

As Southern Rock began to grow in popularity in the 1970s, it nurtured the traditions of camaraderie and fellowship that characterized the early experiences of its pioneers. As Doug Gray, lead vocalist for the Marshall Tucker Band, writes in Southbound’s foreword, “The Southern rock community became yet another family that was shaped by those formative years in South Carolina or Georgia or Florida or all the places where these folks

came from.” As a result, Southern rock became what Charlie Daniels called “a genre of people more than a genre of music.”

Yet, despite the good vibes that spread throughout the network of musicians and their fans, Southern rock struggled for respect before finally evolving into a significant musical revolution. Throughout Southbound, Bomar addresses stereotypical images of the South as a regressive backwater, while highlighting its rich history as a hub of artistic exploration and long-haired rock and roll rebellion that ultimately triumphed.

Focusing primarily on the golden age of the 1970s, Southbound profiles the musicians, producers, record labels, and movers and shakers that defined the genre, including the Allmans, Skynyrd, the Marshall Tucker Band, Wet Willie, the Charlie Daniels Band, Elvin Bishop, the Outlaws, the Atlanta Rhythm Section, 38 Special, ZZ Top, and many others. From the rise and fall of the mighty Capricorn Records, to the music's role in helping Jimmy Carter win the White House, and to its continuing influence, Bomar presents a fascinating and lavishly illustrated chronicle of Southern rock as told by the performers who made it great.

Scott B. Bomar will be present at Barnes & Noble, Monday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. to talk about his book and to sign copies. Bomar is a researcher and music industry professional originally from Nashville, Tennessee. After completing his graduate studies at Vanderbilt University, he went on to work for Sony Music, Universal Music Group and BMG Rights Management. He produces reissue compilations, writes liner notes, and is a lifelong student of music history. Scott currently lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Melanie. Watch for an interview with Scott in the next edition of the Planet Weekly, scheduled to hit the street on Oct. 16.

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OCTOBER 2 + OCTOBER 16

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>>> RED CLAY DIARY | J I M R E E D

2014 // A HALLOWEEN HORROR STORY Beware of Martians and Terrorists Bearing Gifts.

Winning at any cost is not something we humans get to do very often. To win at any cost usually translates into some suicidal act. That's why the battle cry "Victory at any cost!" is likely to be mere bluster, more empty saber-rattling. To win at any cost means you're probably going to have to die in the process. That doesn't sound like winning to most of us, but to those who think outside the box, the idea of dying for victory is a valid one.

Some examples: The Trojan War dragged on for a decade and might never have ended, had Ulysses (Odysseus) not stepped back and resolved to win the war at any cost. What warlord, trained in the rigid format of weaponry and mass military strategy, would have predicted that a handful of unarmed soldiers could wrap themselves in a gift horse and take over an entire city? For thirty centuries, the tale of the surprise, innovation and cleverness of this suicidal act has been repeated, until the myth has become a myth of itself. And, as we all know, myth turns to metaphor.

Perhaps storytellers in the Middle East for the next thirty centuries will repeat the tale of a handful of unarmed soldiers hiding themselves in the bellies of flying metal beasts to bring down the mighty towers of the Western Devils.

In 1897 the author H.G. Wells, knowing his history and acutely aware of its perpetual repetition, tried to warn us all of what happens each time we rely on structured machineries of warfare, each time we forget to use our creative thought processes to anticipate the worst and prepare to deflect it. The novel THE WAR OF THE WORLDS was the result: a Trojan Martian attack from an unexpected direction and for an unknown motive. Sacrifice of a handful of soldiers in a—to the aliens—just cause was the result, and quite effective. Thirty centuries from now, the tale of a handful of outsiders stomping the vermin of Earth in order to colonize, will be told and its metaphor unconsciously understood. The Martian storytellers just might leave out the part about eventually dying after the attack.

And do we learn from such monolithic, in-your-face mythology? Let's see...

At any moment, the people of Earth could be exterminated—this time by forces known and understood—but very little is being done to prevent it. The reasons are clear. Day-to-day life and politics distract us from preparation. The mosquito on the arm is immediate and can be dealt with in a rapid and unimaginative manner. The five-milewide asteroid that's headed our way is way out there, invisible, and perhaps won't make itself known till it's too late. Its effect will be a trillion-fold worse than a mosquito bite, but it's, like, man, it's like something that might not happen, man, and don't bug me about it; I gotta take care of this mosquito.

I suppose Trojans and New Yorkers, somewhere in the backs of their minds, knew that Something Bad could happen at any moment, but we all go on living, knowing that.

When we read about H.G. Wells' Martian war or Homer's Trojan war or the Twin Towers or an impending meteor, we understand that it can take place, but we are all betting in the same reverse lottery—it's a long shot, expecting to draw the winning apocalyptic ticket number. Probably won't happen in my lifetime, so not to worry!

I live in Alabama, a virtual magnet for tornadoes, but each time one misses me, I'm secretly grateful that somebody else is being made miserable, while at the same time feeling bad for them. It didn't hit me this time. Oh, as a poet, I feel guilty about this, but I'm sitting here, eating chocolate chip cookies and breathing more deeply, just the same.

In order to conquer a planet, you have to think like a Martian. In order to conquer a society, you have to think like a Greek warrior. Then you have to be willing to evaporate along with your victims. Since most of us aren't willing to make that leap, a lot fewer terrorist acts take place than you would imagine. There are still lots of people who can see beyond politics and dogma and focus on the important things, such as watching sunrises, burping babies, holding loved ones, protecting neighbors. We just aren't motivated to die violently—if we can help it.

Once you think like this, wars, sports events and contests lose some of their appeal.

The way to win a fencing match or a chess game is to pull out a gun and shoot your opponent(s) dead. If you're not willing to do that, then you don't really want to win, do you?

Besides, most of us want the losing party to survive, so that we can gloat and strut.

THE WAR OF THE WORLDS was a cautionary tale, but the peculiar thing about humans is that, even though we know things could end badly, we just go on living in denial, hoping that something bad, if it happens, will happen somewhere else. Wells knew this, but he also knew that to be human is to try and try again to survive, against all odds, against all mockery and ignorance and hostility ©2014 by Jim Reed

jim@jimreedbooks.com blog: www.redclaydiary.com

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NOW THROUGH OCT. 16

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In 1986, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, inducted its first members. Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, James Brown and Chuck Berry were among the first class of inductees. Today, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has hundreds of acts that have been inducted. They range from classic rock n’ roll, blues, soul, pop, funk, reggae, psychedelic, progressive, punk, heavy metal and recently even hip-hop. Each one hailed as an innovator and/or influence on later acts. The museum has become a modern celebration of the current pop music culture.

Of course, the selection process has attracted its fair share of controversy over the years. For years, seminal acts such as KISS, Rush and Donovan were ignored despite more than fitting the criteria. Part of the issue stems from the fact that so many different genres evolved from rock n’ roll, making it difficult to discern what acts should be considered. Politics within the music industry also have played a role in the selection process. The issue has upset both critics and fans alike.

An act becomes eligible for induction 25 years after the release of their first album.

With that rule in place, acts such as Pearl Jam and Radiohead are just now beginning to receive attention. However, I’d like to look at a few acts I believe deserved enshrinement that have been largely ignored by voters: Deep Purple: Known by most simply for the song “Smoke On the Water”, Deep Purple were one of the most successful and influential rock bands of the 1970’s. Rising to fame as a blues-rock outfit, the group expanded their sound to become heavier.

They are seen as one of the bridge groups between 60’s psychedelic and heavy metal.

Their influence ranges from Metallica to the Black Crowes.

Yes: Progressive rock became successful largely due to the bands Genesis, King Crimson and Yes. Genesis is already in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, mainly due to the individual success of former members. While King Crimson deserves to be in as well, I’ll argue for Yes first. They evolved from a jazz-folk fusion group in their early albums to a progressive band that incorporated new wave influences in the early 80’s.

Acts across psychedelic, goth, alternative and jam hold Yes in high regard. Their lack of radio hits compared to Pink Floyd and Genesis will continue to hurt them, though Rush’s induction (who recognize Yes as an influence) could help.

The Pixies: Alternative rock as it existed in the 1990’s was due in large part to the Pixies. While REM gets most credit for the rise of college rock on mainstream radio, the Pixies established the “quiet-loud” format that was copied by nearly every grunge and alternative group that came afterwards. Nirvana front man Kurt Cobain even famously said that his band was “just trying to rip off the Pixies”. While their radio success was limited, the Pixies remain incredibly influential among artists of great variety.

T-Rex: Marc Bolan and David Bowie invented glam rock together. While Bowie went on to become a legend, Bolan died in 1977 and has largely been forgotten by critics and fans alike. Bolan’s group T-Rex, nevertheless, has influenced groups from Thin Lizzy to Guns N’ Roses to The Smiths.

Judas Priest and Iron Maiden: These two groups, associated with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, are the bench marks for all metal acts to come after them. While Black Sabbath receives credit for founding metal, Priest and Maiden refined the sound to remove any influence of American blues. Their method of epic delivery has even expanded their influence outside of metal to include acts like Lady Gaga and Sum 41.

The Ohio Players: Another group that gets overshadowed by others in their genre, the Ohio Players were just as influential in the development of funk as Parliament-Funkadelic or Earth, Wind and Fire. Their mark on hip hop can’t be ignored either.

There are plenty more that could be named. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has unfortunately ignored many acts that were seminal in the development of rock n’ roll to its modern form. Hopefully, some of those mentioned above will be voted in soon.

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