PLANET WEEKLY 491

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STORIES 6 SEX&DRUGS&ROCK&ROLL // CARA BRAKE

Once in a while, a show will come on a network that sets itself apart from others, a more gritty, realistic show that challenges the form.

7 ALABAMA SHAKES // ALAN SCULLEY PUBLISHER

L I N DA W. J OHN S ON

MANAGING EDITOR

W I L L I AM BA R S HOP

COVER DESIGN

L AU R A L I N E B E R R Y

EVENTS

WILLIAM BARSHOP

ROAD TRIP

T R E Y B R OOK S

RESTAURANT GUIDE DOC FRANKENSTEIN

PRODUCTION

L AU R A L I N E B E R R Y

IMAGES

Images: Creative Common License unless otherwise credited.

ADVERTISING MA R T Y R OBERSON 205.523.4 668

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS REGINALD ALLEN R A I H A B A J WA WILLIAM BARSHOP CO U R T N E Y BLA N CH A R D K A I T LY N B LO U N T TREY BROOKS KELSEY CAMERON JORDAN CISSELL MARGIE GOLDSMITH SHEENA QUIZON GREGG GARY HARRIS C I N DY H U G G I N S KEVIN LEDGEWOOD BRETT REID VA N R O B E R T S JON ROGERS RACHEL STEINER

Planet Weekly P. O . B o x 2 3 1 5 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 Phone: 205.792.7239 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. © 2015 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.

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Alabama Shakes’ new album, “Sound & Color.” is one of the boldest second albums in recent years.

13 FOODS FOR YOUTH // DR. RACHEL STEINER

HIGH TIDE SPORTS 22 UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH DERRICK HENRY AND CYRUS JONES // GARY HARRIS

FEATURE 5 SECRET STAGES FESTIVAL Alabama Shakes

Foods that can also help keep us looking young

18 DRIVE BY TRUCKERS // ALAN SCULLEY

Mike Cooley wrote six of the 13 songs on the latest Drive-By Truckers’ album, “English Oceans.”

ENTERTAINMENT 6 BOOKS 10-12 RESTAURANT GUIDE / WINE & BEER 15 MOVIE REVIEW 18 MUSIC 19 ROAD TRIP 20 PUZZLEMANIA / EDITORIAL CARTOON 21 HOROSCOPE 22 IN THE NEWS

COVER PHOTO BY BRANTLEY GUTIERREZ

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THE NAKED TRUTH // AN ARTIST EXPLAINS HIS CRAFT A

lexandria Ogden could not help but to be a little put off by Fabian Simpson’s artwork when she finally saw his portfolio.

Ogden, 22, had never seen so many colorful illustrations of naked women.

And these weren’t just naked women, they were women in various stages of sexual provocation- some were bent over and dancing provocatively. One painting simply showed naked legs with a pair of slinky panties wrapped around the woman’s ankles. If she didn’t already know him so well she might have thought that he was a pervert.

“At first I was taken aback by it,” she said. “I’d never met anyone so engulfed [with the female body.]”

She felt much more comfortable looking at his starkly different depictions of older women in church hats, or his drawings of women with big afros or women dressed in traditional African clothing. But for every modestly dressed African goddess she gazed upon in his workspace there would invariably be another canvas of a naked woman desperately trying to seduce her.

Although she was impressed with the afrocentrism expressed in his art, she just had to ask… what’s up with all of the naked chicks?

“That represents the truth to me, like the naked truth,” Simpson said. “There are so many things in life that we run from and the major thing that we run from is the truth. With the naked body I’m able to pull the truth out of you.”

This is the explanation that he gives to most people who question what he draws. An art major at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, he generally works with students and instructors who encourage his style of art. After all, he has travelled to his share of art shows and discovered that it is certainly not unusual to see the naked body depicted in all sorts of creative ways. He seems to be just as fascinated with the reaction people have to nudity in art as he is with the art itself.

“For example, say you put a piece of art up [at an art show] of a naked woman laying in a bed and some old person comes by and it offends them,” he said. “Why does it offend them? It offends them because it makes them feel a certain type of way, maybe they like it deep down inside.

Art makes you do just about anything that you don’t want to do. I can pull the truth out of anybody with just a picture.”

When he put it to Ogden this way she was surprised to find that she agreed with him. His explanation made sense.

Still, she suspected that there were even deeper meanings hidden in the pieces

he produced. Now that she and Simpson have been dating for two years, she has her own ideas about what motivates his art.

Though he only recently declared a major in art, he has been a practicing artist for years. It wasn’t until he was invited to play football for Stillman that Simpson realized he could pursue his lifelong passion as a career. “[His art] is what helped him to cope with losing so many people,” Ogden said.

The son of a Jamaican immigrant, Simpson was orphaned early in his life after his mother died and his father was deported.

After that he was shuffled between homes, raised mostly by single female relatives. He was a kid who had to grow up fast, and perhaps his art, in some way or another, is a reflection of his experiences. Throughout all of his art is a reflection of his past, simulated through the various manifestations of the women who raised him, the women who hurt him and the women who believed in him when no one else did.

“Abuse of women plays a big part in my art,” he said. “Not saying that I’m such a good guy, I’ve had my dog days.

I’ve seen a lot of women be disgraced in front of my eyes, I’ve seen them be talked down to and torn down mentally.

While the female body, whether clothed or unclothed, is a memorable feature in his art, it certainly does not represent the entirety of his work. He dedicates the bulk of his time building his brand, called Twenty-Eight Flavors after his high school football jersey number.

Through the website he created for the brand, Simpson is commissioned to design custom art work.

In the past, some people have underestimated the amount of dedication necessary for what he does. When he told his teammates that he was an art major some of them, like Tori Bennett, a business major, assumed that he had picked his major because it was easy. When changed his mind when he and Simpson became friends and he got a chance to view his work.

“We all come from hard-stalk backgrounds,” Bennett said. “We always told ourselves we were going to make it. We were going to graduate college and accomplish things. When I see everything he went through and everything he wants out of life.”

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>>> T V | C A R A B R A K E

>>> B O O K S | C O U R T N E Y B L A N C H A R D

ROCK SOUND // SEX&DRUGS&ROCK&ROLL

O

nce in a while, a show will come on a network that sets itself apart from others, a more gritty, realistic show that challenges the form. FX is usually the purveyor of such shows, giving a dark feeling to public television. This time they’re breaking into popular music television with “Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll”, an unconventional show about a broken up rock band who is brought back together for a surprising reason.

The Heathens was the most popular band of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s until they broke up in the late 90’s after their first album. Now, all the members are doing different projects...except the lead singer, Johnny Rock, who is a washed up singer with no prospects except cover bands.

That is, until he approaches a girl in a bar, making a move on her before getting kneed in the groin. It turns out the girl is his daughter, and she has one request.

Not to form a long lost relationship or get an apology, but have him and his famous songwriting partner and guitarist Flash.

She agrees to pay them a great sum of money to write her songs to help her get famous.

Unlike current music television, however, the focus isn’t only on the music, Actually, the music plays a very small role in the show. The show focuses on Johnny, his old band, and his newfound relationship with his grown daughter, Gigi.

There are some songs played in the first few episodes, but the dramedy gears more toward character-driven plots. Johnny has to deal with his drug addictions, old feuds with his old members, and building a relationship with Gigi, who he

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hasn’t known about in all her 25 years.

The show has a star studded cast, headed by Dennis Leary as Johnny Rock, Elaine Hendrix as Ava, Johnny’s wife and former backup singer, John Corbett as Flash,”The Heathens” former guitarist and Johnny’s songwriting partner, and “Victorious” alum Elizabeth Gillies as Gigi, Johnny’s uber talented daughter. Other cast members include Robert Kelly and John Ales as Bam Bam and Rehab, the drummer and bassist for The Heathens. It also features special guest stars like Joan Jett.

There are only four episodes of the show out right now, but it is garnering great reviews from websites like Variety and The Wrap. Dennis Leary bring a very rock-god complex to Johnny, keeping his character the same while allowing him to grow a little bit with each episode while still maintaining his flaws. Elizabeth Gillies brings Leary’s spitfire attitude with a modern, feminine twist as Gigi, giving the character a lovable attitude that lets Gigi prove that Johnny bit off more than he can chew. With just enough hooks and plot spins to keep the audience on its toes, “Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll” promises to blossom into a killer smash.

“Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll” airs on FX every Thursday at 10/9c. Episodes are available for streaming on the FX website.

AMONG THE GARIFUNA A

mong the Garifuna is the first ethnographic narrative of a Garifuna family. The Garifuna are descendants of the “Black Carib,” whom the British deposited on Roatan Island in 1797 and who settled along the Caribbean coast from Belize City to Nicaragua.

In 1980, medical anthropologist Marilyn McKillop Wells found herself embarking on an “improbable journey” when she was invited to the area to do fieldwork with the added challenge of revealing the “real” Garifuna. Upon her arrival on the island, Wells was warmly embraced by a local family, the Diegos, and set to work recording life events and indigenous perspectives on polygyny, Afro-indigenous identity, ancestor-worshiping religion, and more. The result, as represented in Among the Garifuna, is a lovingly intimate, earthy human drama.

The family narrative is organized chronologically. Part I, “The Old Ways,” consists of vignettes that introduce the family backstory with dialogue as imagined by Wells based on the family history she was told. We meet the family progenitors, Margaret and Cervantes Diego, during their courtship, experience Margaret’s pain as Cervantes takes a second wife, witness the death of Cervantes and ensuing mourning rituals, follow the return of Margaret and the children to their previous home in British Honduras, and observe the emergence of the children’s personalities.

In Part II, “Living There,” Wells continues the story when she arrives in Belize and meets the Diego children, including the major protagonist, Tas. In Tas’s household Wells learns about foods and manners and watches family squabbles and reconciliations. In these mini-stories, Wells interweaves cultural information on the Garifuna people with first-person narrative and transcription of their words, assembling these into an enthralling slice of life. Part III, “The Ancestor Party,” takes the reader through a fascinating postmortem ritual that is enacted to facilitate the journey of the spirits of the honored ancestors to the supreme supernatural.

Among the Garifuna contributes to the literary genres of narrative anthropology and feminist ethnography in the tradition of Zora Neal Hurston and other women writing culture in a personal way. Wells’s portrait of this Garifuna family will be of interest to anthropologists, Caribbeanists, Latin Americanists, students, and general readers alike.

AUTHOR Marilyn McKillop Wells is professor emerita of anthropology at Middle Tennessee State University. As a medical

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anthropologist, she conducted fieldwork in Central America, West Africa, East Africa, and Papua New Guinea.

REVIEWS “Through a narrative voice that makes you forget you are not reading fiction, anthropologist Marilyn Wells brings to life Garifuna cultural beliefs and practices.

Wells’s narration of the Diego family, a composite of people and places, covers a breadth of topics of traditional anthropological focus including social organization and the life course— birth, marriage, and death—livelihood and identity, and ancestral religious beliefs and ritual. Among the Garifuna is a remarkably unique contribution to Garifuna ethnography.”'

—Keri Vacanti Brondo, author of Land Grab: Green Neoliberalism, Gender, and Garifuna Resistance in Honduras “Wells has written this book in a way that will delight the general reader. There’s no beginning or ending, only a now, an ethnographic present, a page of an ongoing life defined by family and friends, shared history, and persistent change.”

—Jon L. Gibson, author of Spirit Wind and coeditor of Signs of Power: The Rise of Cultural Complexity in the Southeast

***

The University of Alabama Press is a proud member of the Association of American University Presses. The Press currently publishes 80-85 new titles a year and has over 1,700 titles in print; it is a founding member of the University Press Content Consortium and is at the cutting edge of digital publishing. The Press is the publishing arm of the University of Alabama. | www.uapress.ua.edu

>>> F E AT U R E | A L A N S C U L L E Y

ALABAMA SHAKES // SOUND & COLOR A

labama Shakes’ new album, “Sound & Color.” is one of the boldest second albums in recent years, taking the fairly straightforward (but stirring) blues and soul rooted rock of the group’s debut, “Boys & Girls,” and turning it on its ear with a host of stylistic twists and an adventurous approach to the sonics of the music.

Some hints of more of a modernist – and unique -- approach the blues, soul and rock were present on “Boys & Girls,” but “Sound & Color” makes it clear the Alabama Shakes aren’t out to be Muddy Waters revivalists.

As inventive and daring as the second album sounds, Alabama Shakes drummer Steve Johnson said there was little that was planned or calculated about the way the music developed.

“We weren’t learning our parts, getting them all dialed in and going in (to the studio) with an idea of what we were going to do,” Johnson said in a recent phone interview. “It was very in the moment, you know, and improvised and just natural. However it was coming out was how we were hearing it at the time.”

Alabama Shakes came into the second album being hailed as one of the most exciting new bands to have come on the scene in recent years. Formed in Athens, Alabama in 2009 by singer/ guitarist Brittany Howard, guitarist Heath Fogg, bassist Zac Cockrell and Johnson.

By 2011, the group has released a four-song self-titled EP and been the subject of a rave review in the “New York Times” for its performance at the CMJ Music Festival that fall. A month later, the band was signed by ATO Records. The buzz around the band was already building by the time “Boys & Girls” was released in spring 2012. Then the critical acclaim translated into commercial success as the single, “Hold On,” topped the adult alternative singles chart and the album was certified gold with sales eventually topping 700,000 copies.

This set the stage for “Sound & Color” and more great expectations.

The innovative and adventurous direction of “Sound & Color,” though, didn’t emerge right away. In fact, the group began the path to the album with a couple of sessions that didn’t bear fruit.

“First we had like a couple of demos we had done in other studios.” Johnson said. “Like we went back with Andrija (Tokic), who helped engineer and co-produce a couple of songs on ‘Boys and Girls,’ we went back and demoed like an early version of ‘Miss You’ and ‘Gimmee All Your Love’ at his place. And it didn’t have the same, I don’t know, the songs, structurally they weren’t there

yet. The sound wasn’t there.

“Then we tried some other songs at Tommy Brenneck’s studio in Brooklyn,” he said. “He does stuff with Budos Band and Charles Bradley. So we did an early version of ‘Joe’ and this song called ‘Heat Lightning,’ which didn’t make the record.

His sound was very, very Dap-Tone and very soul. And that’s cool, but that’s very much their thing. We had bigger ambitions than that. We didn’t want to sound exactly like we’re copping their style or anything like that because it’s not our thing. It’s an influence of ours, but it’s not our thing.”

Next, Alabama Shakes decided to head to Nashville and work with producer Blake Mills. That’s when something fresh happened.

“We went there and then we recorded ‘Gemini’ right out of the gate. That was the first song that we tracked,” Johnson said.

“So immediately there was a tone for the album and a mood and everything.”

Another song that came together early in the session with Mills, according to Johnson, was “Gimme All Your Love,” the track that didn’t gel with Tokic.

“There was an early demo like at Andreija’s, and the parts weren’t, they weren’t really there yet. The idea was,” Johnson said. “The idea was definitely there, but it hadn’t locked in yet. Then when we started working with Blake, Blake had a couple of ideas to emphasize

certain parts and make them feel like a statement rather than just a part in the song, I guess, something that was going to get drilled Into somebody’s head, making it pop.

“We tracked it a few times,” Johnson said. “And he (Mills) would make comments here and there, like ‘You’re thinking about it too much. I can tell when you’re playing that everything is very calculated right now. You’re thinking. Just quit thinking. Just do it. You’ve played the song before. Just feel it out.’ Then we were able to get a really good take of it.”

Several other songs then came together during that session with Mills, and work on “Sound & Color” stretched out for about a year as the band and its producer chased its adventurous vision.

But Johnson said the band knew “Give Me All Your Love” was a standout.

“That song, it’s always been pretty much a powerhouse,” Johnson said.

“The vocal delivery on it is just straight from the gut, in your face, howling. I mean, it’s evident when we play live how powerful it is because it stops people, like boom.”

Johnson knows “Sound & Color” may not connect immediately with fans of the first album as well as newcomers to the music of Alabama Shakes.

“To me, it’s a very emotional, spacey ride, I guess,” Johnson said.

“There’s a lot of types of songs that aren’t immediate to a listener, that don’t immediately pull them in. You might have to listen to it a few times and then over that period of time, certain things kind of jump out at you that you didn’t hear before. I think this is definitely one of those kinds of albums.”

Johnson said it’s taken a little time for Alabama Shakes to translate the songs from “Sound & Color” for live performance and to get dialed in on the best way to perform the material. “ I would say it’s extremely fun to play,” Johnson said of the new album.

“It’s really rewarding whenever it sounds good. Like when everybody is on point and really locked in. But it is challenging as well. It’s something we kind of have to be working at constantly, even on time off of the road. We’ve got to stay brushed up.”

The band is also enjoying having two full albums of material to play, making it easier to fill a headlining set.

“So far we’ve been playing all of the new material, and still putting in some of the stuff from ‘Boys & Girls’ in there,” Johnson said. Our set lists are longer now. We were only playing like 60 minutes. Now we’re playing 90 minutes and trying to put as much of the new material in as possible.”

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Margarita Monday $4 Margaritas All Day

Bama - Brews - Day - Tuesday 1/2 Off All Alabama Brewed Pints

Wine Down Wednesday 1/2 Off All Wine by the Glass

Tip Your Glass Thursday 1/2 Off All Bottles of Wine

Sunday

Brunch 10:30AM-3PM

Plannin

g a pa Rent t h rt y? e GOAT HOUSE !

In historic downtown Northport 430 Main Avenue 205-879-2238 www.billyssportsgrill.com text “billys” to 46786

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NEWS

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Teams Needed for Bama Brew & Que

Got the best BBQ around? Here’s your chance to prove it! Register for the 3rd Annual Bama Brew & Que in Tuscaloosa, a KCBS Sanctioned Event being held Sept.

25-26. This event is sponsored by Young Professionals of Tuscaloosa, or YP(t). For more information, visit www.yptuscaloosa.com/bama-bbq.

Small Business Roundtable Breakfast @ FNB of Central Alabama

Join us for breakfast and a great open discussion on Aug. 20 at 11:30a.m. at First National Bank of Central Alabama, 2323 Paul W Bryant Drive in Tuscaloosa . There is no cost to attend. RSVP to Jill McDonald at 391-0555.

Northport Citizen of the Year Awards Celebrates 40 Years, Nomination Process Open

The Chamber is now accepting nominations for the 2015 Northport Citizen of the Year Awards. For 40 years, the program has celebrated outstanding leadership in the city. Numerous deserving citizens have been recognized for their service and dedication to the city of Northport. Please take the time to consider nominating a Northport citizen in one of the following categories: Citizen Award, Educator, Public Safety, Business Leader, Religious Leader or Historian. The forms to complete can be found online at www.tuscaloosachamber.com. All nominations must be completed and received by Sept. 3, 2015. Contact Stacey Gann at 205-391-0559 or Stacey@tuscaloosachamber.com for more info. The annual Awards Dinner will be held on Oct. 8.

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>>> W I N E R E V I E W | J O N R O G E R S

>>> RESTAURANTS |

HONIG // INTENSE

BREAKFAST / LUNCH Brown Bag

W H E R E TO E AT I N T U S C A LO O SA

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.

was recently sent a sample of two wines from the Waterstone Winery to taste and review, their Chardonnay and their Pinot Noir. Both from Carneros.

Their winery is located in Napa, California, USA. It was founded in 2000 via an interesting collaboration between winemakers Philip Zorn and Brent Shortridge.

In this collaboration, the two winemakers don’t own any vineyards or the winemaking facility itself. Instead, they focus on their passion for winemaking only.

They secured long term sourcing contracts with top growers and going from there, pursue their craft without the distraction of owning land or facilities.

For more info, check out the Waterstone Winery website.

WATERSTONE CARNEROS CHARDONNAY In appearance, this 100% Chardonnay is straw in color and a bit darker than many of the recent Chardonnays I’ve tried.

It’s also quite leggy with thick, slowly falling legs that foreshadow this wine’s alcohol content.

Waterstone Chardonnay alcohol content 14.0% by volume, according to the tasting notes.

There’s a good sting of alcohol in the nose. But it doesn’t overshadow the enjoyable citrus notes, including lemon and tart grapefruit. There were some florals in there as well.

With the tart aroma, I was geared up for a tart taste, but was pleasantly surprised with an initial light sweetness. It gave way to flavors of pear, green apple and nectarine (completely in line with the tasting notes, which is rare!).

Good acids were noted along with bright tannins felt behind the lower lip and in the cheeks.

The wine’s finish was short to medium with a great balance between the tannins and flavors.

Overall, I found Waterstone Chardonnay to be very enjoyable. I especially enjoyed this wine’s balance and couldn’t stop thinking about how well this would pair with

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lobster in a cream sauce. Go acids!

WATERSTONE CARNEROS PINOT NOIR In the glass, this wine presents with colors of medium plum and bit of rust. It’s 100% Pinot Noir and may be just a bit darker than average.

I gave this one the moniker “crazy legs” as the legs were perfectly spaced, large, and slow to fall.

The aroma was quite deep for a Pinot Noir, which nullified the 14.5% alcohol content. I noted caramel and clove, predominantly.

The wine’s taste was interesting but left me a bit confused. It was a blend of caramel and cola along with a bright fruit burst.

Although this was still a dry red, the tannins were softened by the darker flavors. They did, however, carry the long finish.

Overall, I found the initial tasting to be confusing and a bit out of balance. I suspected the wine needed some breathing room and after giving a fresh glass some time to settle, I discovered that the wine moved closer to equilibrium.

I then found it to be much better. The biggest difference was that the caramel sweetness dissipated and everything else made a lot more sense together.

So, definitely worth a try, but I’d highly suggest decanting or aerating this one before serving.

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.

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

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 Great locally-sourced foods and live piono music on the weekends. |killionrestaurants.com/kozys/ The Side by Side Restaurant 2410 University Blvd. | Embassy Suites | 561-2500 thesidebysiderestaurant.com

JAPANESE

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

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

Ichiban Japanese Grill & Sushi 502 15th Street // 752.8844

MEXICAN

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.

Don Rafa's 2313 4th Street | Temerson Square // 345.9191

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.

Chipotle Mexican Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 391.0140 www.chipotle.com

El Mariachi 3520 McFarland Blvd E |Tuscaloosa // 409-8585 El Rincon (2 locations) 1225 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 366.0855 1726 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 330.1274 Fernando's Mexican Grill 824 McFarland Blvd E | Northport // 205.331.4587

ITALIAN

Avenue Pub 405 23rd Avenue

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

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

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

LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871

Little Italy 1130 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.345.4343

Los Calientes Mexican Grill 3429 McFarland Blvd E // 553.1558

Mellow Mushroom 2230 University Blvd // 758.0112 Pizzas, calzones, hoagies and more. Open daily for lunch and dinner. www.mellowmushroom.com

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

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 Thursday of every month. Happy Hour- Mon-Fri from 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. featuring 1/2 price appetizers. $2 Domestic Draft Beers and $3 Well cocktails.

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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 Brunch, lunch, and dinner. Specialty cocktails, local pints, bottled beer, and wine.

Mon - Fri. 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sat. Noon – 11 p.m., Sun.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 | Tue. - Thu.: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Fri - Sat.: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., and Sunday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Buddy’s Ribs & Steaks 2701 Bridge Ave | Northport // 339.4885 Buffalo Wild Wings 2710 McFarland Blvd // 523.0273 Mon–Wed 11 a.m. - midnight | Thurs–Sat 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

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

>>> RESTAURANTS |

W H E R E T O E AT I N T U S C A L O O S A ( C O N T. )

Chili’s 1030 Skyland Blvd | Near McFarland Mall // 750.8881 Fax: 758.7715 // www.chilis.com Dave’s Dogs 1701 McFarland Blvd E | University Mall // 722.2800

10:30 a.m. till 9 p.m. (Sunday Brunch 10:30am-3pm).

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

Five Guys Burgers & Fries 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 391.0575 www.fiveguys.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.

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.

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

Heritage House 700 Towncenter | Northport // 758.0042 Open Mon-Fri 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. – 4 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.

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 Southern Ale House 1530 McFarland Blvd N Monday-Thursday 11a-9p, Friday-Saturday 11a-10p Sunday Brunch 11a-2p A warm and inviting restaurant just north of the river with both classic and contemporary interpretations of Southern Cuisine. We boast a large variety of local craft beers on tap and other options in bottle for our beer loving constituents. Wine and Signature cocktails Southland Restaurant 5388 Skyland Blvd E // 556.3070 Steaks, chops and home-cooked vegetables Mon–Fri 10:45 a.m. - 9 p.m.

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.

Tacogi 500 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 342.3647 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.

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

SPORTS GRILL

Baumhower's Wings of Tuscaloosa 500 Harper Lee Drive | catering-Pick-up Tuscaloosa // 556.5858 | Always fresh and always fun. Owned by former UA/ Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower. Kid Friendly Buffalo Phil’s 1149 University Blvd | The Strip // 758.3318 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar 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 through Saturday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sunday from

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 (3 locations) 9770 Alabama 69; Midtown; and 13544 Hwy 43 North at Rose Blvd. in Northport. Texas Barbecue. | 344.6500 1800 McFarland Blvd, Midtown Village, Tuscaloosa. | 758-1133 13544 Hwy 43 North, Winn Dixie Shopping Center, Northport. | 330-1147 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 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

Logan’s Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd | next to Sams // 349.3554 Steaks, ribs and spirits Longhorn Steakhouse 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 345-8244 #412 New Orleans Steak and Seafood House 824 McFarland Boulevard |11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily.

248-7666 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 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

SEAFOOD

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.

>>> B E E R R E V I E W | B R E T T R E I D

MIAMI BREWING // CITRUS AND HERBAL HOPS I

love Miami Vice, and no, I’m not talking about that stupid Jamie Foxx and Colin Farrell movie.

I’m talking about the spectacular 80s show featuring Crockett and Tubbs, pastel colors, speedboats, and sports cars. The show is so intriguing to me, and I get so into it; the acting isn’t always the best by today’s standards, but I still enjoy it nonetheless. When I saw that Miami Brewing Co. had a Vice IPA, I knew I had to find a way to purchase it. I mean, come on, it combines two of my favorite things: Miami Vice and an IPA. So, when we were in Miami, I knew that I had to get it before we left, because I don’t make it to Miami as much as I would like. I found the beer, made the trek back to Birmingham, and I threw it in the fridge. I waited about as long as I could before I cracked one open. I guess I was waiting because I knew, when I started drinking it, it would shorten my time that I could be with it. It’s like a collectable to me at this point, but nonetheless, I cracked open the first one this afternoon, turned on an episode of Miami Vice, and enjoyed the two side by side.

First of all, the can is not nearly as cool as I would want it to be. I mean, there are so many options when you’ve got a Miami Vice influenced beer. Regardless of what the outside looked like, the inside is what really matters. That being said, I wanted to take in every part of this beer as much as I could. It poured a deep golden, almost orange, hue with a lingering thin, offwhite head that was somewhere between bubbly and foamy. I’m not sure if there is someone measuring the amount of beer being put into the cans, but this one wasn’t as full as others I have had in the past.

The aromas were nice and pleasant, but heavier on the toffee and caramel than most IPAs that I’m used to. There were some nice notes of citrus, specifically grapefruit and orange, paired with some earthy hops in it as well. If there’s one thing I’ve noticed about Miami Brewing beer, now having two, it’s that everything smells distinctly tropical. The aromas remind me of the beach and fresh fruit. Maybe I’m forcing too much here, but it’s just something that clicks in my head.

The flavor was a bit milder than I was expecting, but still nice nonetheless. Up front, you get a ton of toffee and caramel that settles well on the tongue and then powers through your nose. After hanging out with the caramel and toffee notes for a while, you start to pick up on some of the citrus flavor, but it’s very light. I wish there was a little more citrus, being that Florida is the citrus Mecca that it is, but there just isn’t a lot there. It finishes up with some nice herbal notes that substitute the citrus flavors nicely. It leaves a nice aftertaste of toffee and orange with some bitterness

from the hops on the back of your tongue and makes you want to take another sip.

The mouthfeel is around the same, as you would expect from a classic American IPA. There is a tart bitterness towards the end that comes standard from and IPA, but it also has a nice carbonation level that doesn’t mask the flavor. The beer settles nicely on the tongue and allows you to pick up the flavors from the beer quite well. It’s not harsh in the least bit, and, dare I say, easy going and easy to drink. It’s one of the lightest IPAs I’ve had in a long time, and in the words of Crockett “this is Miami, things are more relaxed.” Measuring at 5.3%, you really don’t pick up on a lot of alcohol which was nice and makes this for a somewhat sessionable IPA. The profiles in this beer are brewed so that it compliments well with different types of food, much like most IPAs. If you plan on finding this beer and having it with dinner, I would suggest pairing it with chicken, or any poultry for that matter, something spicy, like Thai or Chinese, basically anything deep fried, or, if you’re in Miami, some really nice Cuban food. The flavors would blend nicely and add to your dinner experience. I plan on doing so this weekend, hopefully, with a recipe for Cuban chicken that I found earlier today.

Overall, this beer is great, and it doesn’t bring down the Miami Vice name.

Miami Brewing, although a young brewery, knows what they’re doing and really focus on the flavor profiles of the beers they produce. While I did have a small issue with the flavors of the beer, it’s extremely well balanced and has all the qualities of a nicely crafted American IPA. The bold caramel and toffee mixed with the citrus and herbal hops blend together to make something that any seasoned beer drinker would enjoy. I know that when I make it back down to Miami, I’m going to pick up more than one of these six packs so I don’t have to guard them from myself.

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AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

11

>>> RESTAURANT REVIEW |

SHEENA GREGG

CHICKEN SALAD CHICK // FRESH SOUTHERN DELICIOUS

>>> RESTAURANTS |

W H E R E TO E AT I N T U S C A LO O S A (CO N T.)

New Orleans Steak and Seafood House 824 McFarland Boulevard |11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily.

248-7666

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

Red Lobster 2620 McFarland Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.553.8810 Sun-Thurs 11AM-10PM//Fri & Sat 11AM-11PM Reservations Accepted Take-Out Available Private Dining Area Available for Advanced Booking (Lunch Specials Available Mon-Fri 11AM-3PM)

Pearl Garden 2719 Lurleen Wallace Blvd | Northport // 339.0880

Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar 4851 Rice Mine Rd NE #460 // 462.3399 McFarland Plaza Shopping Center & Temerson Square

Swen Chinese Restaurant 1130 University Blvd | The Strip // 391.9887

Tuscaloosa Burger & Seafood Company 1014 7th Ave. | Tuscaloosa // 764.1976 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. Over 160 craft beers. Large selection of decadent desserts.

The Levee Bar and Grill 1 Bridge Ave | Northport // 632.3136 Casual riverfront dining Open Mon-Thurs 11am-9:30pm, Fri&Sat 11am, Sun 11am-8pm. www. leveebarandgrill.com Wintzell's Oyster House 808 Skyland Blvd. at the intersection of Skyland and Alabama Highway 69. | 247-7772 | wintzellsoysterhouse.com/location/tuscaloosa/

CHINESE

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

T

here are a variety of things that come to mind when one thinks of Southern food staples. For any basic Southern get together whether it’s a picnic or baby shower, there is one thing that comes to mind: chicken salad. Enter Chicken Salad Chick, a restaurant paradise boasting over fifteen different chicken salad varieties. The restaurant’s roots first started in Auburn and now has ten locations across the state.

Founder Stacy Brown has always been on a personal quest to find the perfect chicken salad. In her attempts, the Chicken Salad Chick was born. Tuscaloosa first came familiar with the Chick in the initial Essex Square location in Northport in October 2013 followed by the Midtown Village location in February 2014.

As a self-proclaimed chicken salad snob, I decided to dine at the Midtown location for girls’ lunch. Looking over the menu I was excited to see the variety of combinations to choose from. Did I want a sandwich? Did I want a scoop of chicken salad with soup?

How about a delicious side of broccoli salad or a Southern classic of grape salad? My mind and my appetite were overwhelmed but I finally decided on a “Gourmet Chick” combination of a chicken salad sandwich, fresh fruit cup, loaded potato soup, pickle spear, and cookie. The next difficult decision focused on the chicken salad itself.

The Fancy Nancy had the classic combination of apples, pecans, and seedless grapes, while the Kickin’ Kay Lynne was calling my name with a combination of buffalo sauce, ranch, bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and jalapenos.

In the end I strayed to the safe side and chose the classic Fancy Nancy on croissant.

As I waited on my food, I noticed the variety of folks around. Mothers with daughters, businessmen, and college women flooded the establishment.

12

AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

Laughter from surrounding tables seemed to make the already relaxed atmosphere even more cheerful. My food was quickly brought to me, and the efficiency confirmed that this is a perfect lunch location.

Glancing over my fruit cup, I was happy to see the mix of strawberries and grapes that flooded my plate. The portions sizes were generous, just like any Southern household you’d visit for a special occasion.

Overall, I believe that Chicken Salad Chick will remain a staple in Tuscaloosa and Northport. Even catering to nonchicken salad lovers with a menu of turkey, ham, roast beef, and pimiento cheese selections, this restaurant has it all. The in-house selections expand to a variety of sizes in grab and go containers making your next tailgate a breeze. I can’t wait to hit up the Chick again for lunch….and dinner!

Chicken Salad Chick is located in both Midtown Village and Essex Square Market Place in Northport. The restaurant opens at 10:00 a.m. daily in both locations. Tweet us @ThePlanetWeekly and let us know where you are eating!

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.

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

Chang’s Chinese Restaurant 1825 McFarland Blvd N // 391.9131

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.

China Fun 2600 University Blvd | Alberta City // 553.2435

California Underground 13552 Highway 43, Northport | 339.8660

Chongwah Express 1425 McFarland Boulevard, Northport. 333-1088

Firehouse Subs 1130 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 248.0680

Hot Wok Express 6751 Alabama 69, Tuscaloosa // 758.0148

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

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

Lenny’s Sub Shop

Sheena Gregg, MS, RDN,LD is a registered dietitian nutritionist and local “Filipino foodie.” Follow her on Twitter @AFilipinoFoodie

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W H E R E TO E AT I N T U S C A LO O S A (CO N T.)

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FOODS FOR YOUTH

COFFEE SHOP

220 15th St // 752.7450 Fax: 752.7481 // www.lennys.com

Barnes & Noble 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa 349.6366

Little Caesars Pizza 1414 10th Ave // 366.2220 | 1www.littlecaesars.com Little Italy 1130 University Blvd. // 345.4354

Five Java Coffee, fresh juices, smoothies and treats from Mary's Cakes.

Open Monday - Saturday at 7am; 9am on Sundays

Mellow Mushroom 2230 University Blvd | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 758.0112

Heritage House 700 Towncenter | Northport // 758.0042 Open Mon-Fri 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Subs n' You 2427 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.758.0088

Krispy Kreme Doughnut 1400 McFarland Blvd // 758.6913 www.krispykreme.com

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

Starbucks (2 locations) 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 343.2468 1901 13th Ave East | inside Super Target // 462.1064 starbucks.com

DESSERTS

Pizza Palace Buffet 6521 Alabama 69 | 752.5444

Celebrations Bakery, Inc. 1832 McFarland Blvd N | Northport // 339.3221 Fax: 349.1945

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

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.

DELICATESSEN

Honeybaked Ham Company 421 15th St. E // 345.5508 www.honeybaked.com

Dunkin' Donuts 2520 Stillman Blvd. |Tuscaloosa// 349.3400 McCorvey Dr. | Tuscaloosa // 348.4041 www.dunkindonuts.com

A

s I wrote my previous article about ways to keep your skin looking youthful, I got to thinking about foods that can also help keep us looking young. I did some research and are there lots of things we can be adding to our diet if we don’t eat them already to help slow the adDing process.

WALNUTS TO PREVENT GRAY HAIR

Manna Grocery & Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 752.9955

Smoothie King (2 locations) 415 15th Street | Tuscaloosa // 349.1721 Fax: 349.1945 1403 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 462.3664

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

Sweet CeCe's Frozen yogurt Treats 2217 University Blvd. | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 561.6458 A fun and friendly make your own creation, yogurt experience!

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

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

Walnuts are rich in body-boosting biotin that promotes hair growth, nourishing vitamin E, and naturally moisturizing omega oils. They also contain copper, which is a very important mineral that helps with the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives our skin and hair color. A deficiency in copper is a common cause of hair prematurely turning gray. According to research eating a handful of walnuts a day can help delay your hair from turning gray and another bonus is that walnuts are high in the good fat our body needs to function and fuel the brain.

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.

LEAN BEEF FOR SHINY NAILS

Jason’s Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd // 752.6192 Fax: 752.6193 // www.jasonsdeli.com Located in the Meadowbrook Shopping Center.

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.

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

Newk's 205 University Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 758.2455 Schlotsky’s Deli 405 15th St. E // 759.1975 schlotskys.com Which Wich University Blvd.// Downtown Tuscaloosa // Mon – Sat 10:30 – 9 // Sunday 11 – 7 // Fun atmosphere,fresh ingredients, great sandwiches. 764.1673

Yogurt Lab 920 Paul W. Bryant Dr Ste 200 | Tuscaloosa // 347.9522 Yogurt Mountain 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 342.1484 Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. | Fri & Sat 11 a.m. - midnight

Weekly manicures can keep your nails in tip-top shape, but so can a Sunday’s roast dinner. Research has found that a diet rich in protein, iron and zinc are the key to long, strong, beautiful nails. And you’ll get a healthy serving of all three nutrients from a small portion of lean red meat.

TOMATOES TO REVERSE SUN DAMAGE

New research has found that the reason melanoma rates are so low in regions like the Mediterranean where the sun shines almost all year around has to do with the particular diet they eat. Foods high in antioxidants, particularly deeply colored fruits and vegetables, can help fight the oxidizing effect of UV rays. One study found participants who ate five tablespoons of tomato paste daily showed 33 percent more

protectionagainst sunburn than the control group. Tomatoes do two great things- the carotenoids and antioxidants help the body fight off oxidation that ages skin cells and they boost pro-collagen which is a molecule that gives skin its taught, youthful structure.

SWEET POTATOES FOR GLOWING SKIN

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables gives a healthier, and more attractive, golden glow than the sun. Researchers found people who ate more portions of red and orange fruits and vegetables per day had a more sun-kissed complexion than those who didn’t consume as much. Few foods are as rich in all the compounds that give your skin a glow as sweet potatoes.

Eating just half a sweet potato with the skin provides 200 percent of your dailyrecommended intake. Other vegetables that can give your skin a glowing look are beets, carrots, and pumpkin.

LASTLY… WATER! GOOD FOR EVERYTHING IN OUR BODY.

When looking for the real fountain of youth, search no further than plain water. Our bodies are made up of over 70 percent water and it keeps us fresh and hydrated.

When our body is dehydrated, not only can that cause fatigue but also it can cause our skin to look dry and wrinkled. Hydrated skin looks smooth, fresh and younger and you will be doing well to all your organs too by drinking water. A good rule of thumb for how much water you should drink is dividing your body weight in half and that is the amount of ounces you should be consuming.

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AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

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

PIXELS // ANEMIC LAFFER C

ombine “Independence Day” with “Ghostbusters” and then insert Adam Sandler in another of his immature manchild roles as the hero, and you’ve got the premise of “Mrs. Doubtfire” director Chris Columbus’ predictable, but palatable “Pixels”, a nostalgic sci-fi fantasy about the bygone video game arcade era. Initially, you might think Columbus and “Mr. Deeds” writer Tim Herlihy and “Just Go with It” scribe Timothy Dowling have done

little more than synthesize elements of “Independence Day” and “Ghostbusters” for the “Saturday Night Live” alumnus. Actually, the filmmakers have adapted French director Patrick Jean’s ephemeral, twominute short “Pixels” (2010) about space invaders masquerading as vintage video game characters. Sadly, everything about Columbus’ “Pixels” adaptation is wholesome and lukewarm rather than imaginative and mischievous. Since he slipped into middle-age, the 48-year old Sandler hasn’t made anything as audacious as his early, lowest-common-denominator farces: “Billy Madison” (1995), “Happy Gilmore” (1996), “The Waterboy” (1998), “Big Daddy” (1999), and “Little Nicky” (2000). Later, Sandler appeared in comedies with a slightly higher IQ such as his critically acclaimed “Punch Drunk Love” (2002), “Anger Management” (2003) with Jack Nicholson, “50 First Dates” (2004) with Drew Barrymore, “Click” (2006) with Christopher Walken, and “I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry” (2007) with Kevin James. Just as he explored new facets with his image in “Punch Drunk Love,” Sandler ventured even further afield with Judd Apatow’s heavyweight “Funny People” (2009) as a comedian stricken with cancer.

Sandler’s recent big screen efforts have overshadowed neither “Punch Drunk

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Love” nor “Funny Business.” Indeed, “Pixels” is just as routine as “Just Go for It” (2011), “Grown-Ups” (2010), its sequel “Grown-Ups 2” as well as “Jack and Jill” (2011) and “That’s My Boy” (2012).

Although nothing about “Pixels” is likely to affront or alienate anybody like “Jack and Jill” or “That’s My Boy,” Sandler’s shenanigans as a video gamer wronged in his youth comes off as severely superficial.

Nevertheless, Columbus has fashioned a coherent but humorless escapade with some amusing characters that are eclipsed by impressive CGI renderings of several 8-bit video characters, including “PACMAN,” “Donkey Kong,” “Galaga,” “Centipede,” and “Space Invaders.” Children of the 1980s who grew up in places around the Friendly City, like Two-Bits behind the old McDonalds on Highway 45 North, The Back Porch in the old McRae’s Mall, and Diamond Jim’s in the Leigh Mall may cherish fond memories of those days.

“Pixels” unfolds in 1982 as 13-year old Sam Brenner (Anthony Ippolito) and his best friend Will Cooper (Jared Riley) leap astride their banana-seat bikes and ride off to the first video game arcade to open in their town. Not only does Sam discover he possesses a knack for defeating Pac-Man and Centipede, but Cooper and he make friends with forlorn 8-year-old Ludlow Lamonsoff (Jacob Shinder) whose only friend is his grandmother. Eventually, Sam takes his gift for winning video games to a Donkey Kong Championship. Unfortunately, he lands in second place behind his chief adversary, snotty, self-centered, 13-year-old Eddie (Andrew Bambridge), who christens himself ‘The Fire Blaster.’ Interestingly enough, NASA loads up footage of their video game competition in a time capsule and launches it into deep space. Optimistically, NASA hopes to establish peaceful contact with an alien civilization. Meantime, after Eddie trounced him, Sam has turned into a perennial slacker. Basically, Sam lives a low-profile life. Although he got married, his wife cheated on him with their pediatrician. Now, he installs home entertainment systems for a living.

Actually, Sandler looks pretty goofy in his bright orange Nerds company outfit that resembles a UPS drivers’ uniform. Meantime, Sam’s obese buddy Will has plunged into politics and now serves as President.

Nevertheless, Will has an appalling habit of putting his foot in his mouth whenever he ventures out into the public eye. More recently, during a reading initiative at a kindergarten, Cooper reprimanded a little girl for correcting his pronunciation. Their

friend Ludlow (Josh Gad of “The Wedding Ringer”) has turned into a conspiracy theorist.

Without warning, a mysterious interplanetary force destroys a U.S. military base in Guam. Not only does it reduce the base to millions of cubes, but it also abducts a security guard. President Cooper assembles his advisors and summons Sam. One of the President’s advisors is Lieutenant Colonel Violet Van Patten (Michelle Monaghan of “Source Code”) who has just separated from her philandering husband. Violet’s hubby cheated on her with his 19-year old Pilates instructor. Before they race each other to the White House, Sam and Violet meet at her house after he arrived to install a home entertainment system. Violet and Sam sit in her closet and swap sentimental stories so Violet’s teenage son Matty (Matt Lintz of “The Crazies”) won’t see her grieve.

Anyway, an enigmatic alien race has acquired the NASA footage, but they have misconstrued it as a challenge to fight to the death. Miraculously, Sam’s superb video skills make him a highly soughtafter individual, and President Cooper assigns Sam and Ludlow to teach Navy

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SEALS how to wage war against video game characters, specifically, Centipede.

Lieutenant Colonel Van Patten has analyzed the cube debris from Guam, and she has invented light-blasting ray guns that can smash the aliens to smithereens.

President Cooper neglects to act quickly enough to prevent another attack, and the aliens destroy the Taj Mahal.

Naturally, our nerdy heroes whip the aliens with relative nonchalance in one confrontation after another in this PG-13 rated hokum. The showdowns with Pac-Man and Donkey Kong yield the most excitement, and the special effects look fabulous. The funniest scene occurs when the fictional father of Pac-Man, Professor Iwatani (Denis Akiyama of “Johnny Mnemonic”), tries to reason with a gargantuan replica of his computer-generated son and it munches his forearm.

Columbus appropriated this scene from Howard Hawks’ 1951 chiller “The Thing from Another World.” Not even villainous Peter Dinklage as the diminutive adult version of Eddie can generate any spontaneity in this attractive but anemic laffer.

Altogether, “Pixels” qualifies as one of Sandler’s least memorable movies.

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MISSION IMPOSSIBLE // NAIL-BITER ✭✭✭✭ T

he latest installment in the “Mission: Impossible” film franchise ranks as one of the best. “Jack Reacher” director Christopher McQuarrie’s “Mission: Impossible-Rogue Nation” rivals its superlative predecessor “Mission: Impossible-Ghost Protocol” with spine-tingling suspense and spectacularly staged set-pieces. Mind you, things haven’t always been so consistently good.

The initial “Mission: Impossible” movie was arguably exciting enough in its own right, especially when Tom Cruise suspended himself Spiderman style to break into a computer at CIA Headquarters. Nevertheless, the film portrayed one of the most beloved television series characters in such a sacrilegious light that most television “Mission: Impossible” fanatics abhorred it. I grew up watching Peter Graves play Jim Phelps from 1967 to 1973 and again briefly from 1988 to 1990 on the CBS-TV, weekly, hourlong, program, and the heretical notion that Phelps could turn traitor constituted blasphemy. Little did it matter that the people who produced “Mission: Impossible” gave Phelps legitimate grounds for his treachery. Comparably, this would be tantamount to turning either Marshal Dillon of “Gunsmoke” into a murderous

outlaw or indicting Andy Griffith’s Sheriff Andy Taylor for police brutality.

The second entry in the Paramount franchise “Mission Impossible II” emerged as a vast improvement over the original. Unfortunately, the stimulating third installment “Mission Impossible III” made an error almost as egregious as defaming Jim Phelps. Tom Cruise and director J.J. Abrams gave Ethan Hunt a wife to worry about, and that matrimonial

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madness provided the motive force in its contrived melodrama. The secret agent with a double life and a wife is the stuff of spoofs, and the marriage plot was predictable. Perhaps if they had substituted Hunt’s parents (remember them from the 1996 original?) for his wife, the idea might have been more palatable. As swiftly as the franchise got Ethan hitched, it got him just as quickly unhitched with ambiguous details. “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol” kept Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) separated from his wife, and he reverted to single status as he had in “Mission Impossible II.” Happily, neither Cruise nor his latest collaborators have pulled anything as foolhardy as “Mission Impossible III” with “Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation.”

Like the best James Bond extravaganzas, “Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation” opens with a cliffhanger gambit.

Ethan Hunt scrambles atop the wing of a military cargo plane, an Airbus A400M, as it trundles down the runaway for takeoff. He slaloms off the wing down to the fuselage and seizes the door handle.

Hunt’s cyber genius colleague Benjamin Dunn (Simon Pegg of “Shaun of the Dead”) struggles to open the door remotely while Hunt clings desperately for dear life as the plane gains altitude. Frantically, Benji opens the wrong door, but eventually opens the right door. Hunt gains access to the cargo hold and spots the pallet of VX-nerve gas missiles. The villains, a band of Chechen separatist fighters, discover Hunt’s presence too late, and he deploys the chute on the pallet, so both the missiles and he plunge into the blue. This snappy incident is peripheral to the plot, but it gets this outlandish escapade off on the right foot. Moreover, this tense scene reunites Hunt with not only Benji, but also series regular Luther Stickell (Ving Rhames of “Pulp Fiction”) and “Ghost Protocol” addition William Brandt (Jeremy Renner of “The Bourne Legacy”).

This time around our heroic quartet wrestles with their worst nightmare: the Syndicate, an enigmatic league of terror-

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ists, alluded to at the end of “Ghost Protocol,” that threatens not only to destroy the IMF but also initiate global chaos. Predictably, of course, we know Hunt and company will preserve the status quo.

Nevertheless, writer & director Christopher McQuarrie takes everything straight to the brink and then lets it teeter. Earlier “Mission Impossible” movies relied on the plot device of ‘disavowing’ Ethan Hunt so he wound up as the man in the middle between the good guys and the bad guys.

“Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation” raises the stakes considerably by ostracizing the entire IMF Agency, with bureaucratic, stuffed-shirt CIA Director Alan Hunley (Alex Baldwin of “The Hunt for Red October”) arguing passionately for the IMF’s dissolution after the infamous San Francisco incident involving a Russian nuclear missile. Meantime, in London, Hunt stumbles accidentally onto the Syndicate.

This shadowy organization consists of thousands of spies who have deserted and are officially listed as dead. Pretty but pugnacious Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson of “The White Queen”), who follows orders from Syndicate honcho Solomon Kane (Sean Harris of “Prometheus”) acts as if she were a double agent for British Intelligence.

“Mission: Impossible—Rogue Nation” delivers everything that we’ve come to expect from this intrigue-laden, gadgetencumbered franchise. Our resourceful heroes still wear those latex masks that they peel off at dramatic moments to surprise us. As usual, they are required to break into and out of various buildings bristling with sophisticated security safeguards that sometimes challenge them to the point of death. The debonair 53-year old Cruise performs his own perilous, acrobatic, hair-raising stunts with zealous aplomb. He careens a small car around in a maze of narrow city streets with the villains in hot pursuit and then launches himself astride a motorcycle with daredevil gusto. Director Christopher McQuarrie succeeds at making everything doubly difficult for our protagonists, and they embark on an improbable but deathdefying gauntlet of obstacles that would stymie lesser souls. Several scenes benefit from gripping tension because one set of heroes execute tasks that prevent another hero from either being captured or killed. Cruise and co-star Rebecca Ferguson team up in several helter-skelter, close quarters, combat scenes that surely required lots of rehearsal. Ferguson displays dazzling dexterity when she clashes with a henchman twice her size who wields a knife far larger than hers.

One of the best sequences has Cruise debating which villain to target before either assassin shoots a foreign dignitary attending a live opera performance. The fifth globe-trotting “Mission Impossible” foray qualifies as a rapid-fire, white-knuckled, adrenaline-laced, nail-biter with momentum that never slackens and surprises that continually astonish.

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AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

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>>> PET PLANET | K E L S E Y C A M E R O N & T I N A M I L L E R

“OUT OF THE BOX” // HOW TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE HSWA

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s a nonprofit, no kill, all volunteer animal welfare organization, The Humane Society of West Alabama depends on the generosity of people in our community to help ensure that the dogs and cats in our care have the most comfortable, stimulating, safe, and healthy environment that we can provide. We realize that not everyone can adopt or even foster one of our wonderful pets, so we have worked hard to find innovative and creative ways to make it possible for most anyone to help, depending on the individuals’ skills and gifts.

Are you “artsy/crafty”? We offer a table of handmade items made by volunteers at each of our monthly adoption events and at our two annual fund raisers. Examples include doggie scarves, crocheted winter sweaters for both dogs and cats, homemade doggie treats, even catnip! These items are some of our best sellers each month. We have several local artists who donate their work for our annual Hush Puppy Silent Auction. One wood working volunteer donates a “dog palace” for one of our fund raisers. The sky’s the limit when it comes to arts and crafts donations!

Do you have a skill in grant writing or photography? We receive several generous grant applications each year from pet food companies and pet stores. Presently, we have no one to fill that need. Would you be willing to help us write a grant, train a volunteer, or even read over the application before it is submitted? We also need gifted photographers who can help us remember our events in pictures, but more importantly, capture our dogs’ and cats’ fun personalities for pictures on the website, Facebook, Instagram, and more. Many times the first impression of an adoptable animal is from a picture! Research has shown that an animal’s chances of being adopted are greater if the animal is attractively staged in the photograph.

Did you know that on our website, we have a list of needed supplies that many times The HSWA has to provide to keep our separate dog and cat facilities running?

Check out our website at www.humanesocietyofwa.org, then click on Get Involved for a detailed list of needed cleaning products, animal needs, and office supplies. When you shop for your weekly groceries, pick up one or two of the items listed. When you have a bag or two filled, let us know, and we’ll come pick it up! One of the most innovative ideas that has caught on in recent years is a “Supply Drive”. Classrooms, businesses, and Sunday School classes have sponsored these drives, and it has been such a needed and appreciated help to The HSWA.

Parents, here is a great idea to consider when you are ready to plan your animal loving child’s next birthday party: Have a dog or cat themed party! Instead of the party goers bringing gifts to the birthday girl or boy, send out the list of needed items from The HSWA website, and know with confidence that these gifts will never be discarded or forgotten about. We will even have a special “presenting ceremony” with the birthday child, and we can take pictures of your child at the dog or cat house. We will publically thank him/her on our website, Facebook, and Instagram! What an awesome way to teach your child to think about other living things!

There are other innovative ideas to help The HSWA listed on our website as well, such as shopping on Amazon.com. Did you know that Amazon donates .5% of the price of your eligible purchase to The HSWA when you purchase from amazon using smile.amazon.com? Another creative way to help is to use the Walk Your Dog app.

By downloading the app and selecting The HSWA as your organization, you can help HSWA receive donations by simply walking your dog. Everytime you walk your dog, go to the app and tap start. It tracks your distance and automatically donates money to HSWA at no cost to you! Visit http://www.wooftrax.com/ for more information and to download the application.

Because The HSWA does not receive funding, we depend on the generosity and the creativity of folks like you to keep us up and running! What will you do to help the wonderful dogs and cats in our care?

Tina Miller Vice President, Board of Directors, HSWA volunteer coordinator, WVUA guest speaker for “Pet of the Week”

VOLUNTEER The Humane Society of West Alabama is in need of volunteers for both the cat and dog facilities. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please contact our volunteer coordinator at volunteerhswa@gmail.com or go ahead and download a volunteer application from www.humanesocietyofwa.org/formsinfo.html and send to the same email.

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HANNAH // GOLDEN EYE Meet Hannah, a most uniquelooking dog with her short legs and golden eyes!! Hannah is a 3-year-old female Shepherd/ Corgi mix. She has the softest solid white, thick coat – much like a Shepherd’s coat -- but she has the short legs of a Corgi or maybe a Bassett! It all comes together to make her just beautiful! She’s medium size at 33 lbs. Hannah was pulled from our local shelter, where she was picked up by Animal Control as a stray and no one came to claim her after being down there almost a month. She then got sick with kennel cough, so we got her out of there so nothing would happen to her. She is now recovered and full of fun and energy! Hannah loves to be with you and loves attention. She will require a fenced in yard, but she will want to be inside with you. She tends to be the dominant dog, so we would like to do a trial if there are other pets to make sure she gets along okay with them. Hannah should be fine with children ages 12 and up. We have started on her crate training. Hannah is up to date on her vet care, spayed, heartworm negative and is micro chipped.

She is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. What lucky person gets to be the proud owner of this wonderful dog!?!

NINA // MISS PERSONALITY Meet Miss Personality...she won’t let a rough start keep her down! Nina is a 3 year old pit bull terrier mix. She has a pretty fawn smooth coat with some white on her chest. Nina weighs 45 pounds now, fully grown, and she is all muscle! Nina got hit by a car in November 2012. Her owner rushed her to the vet, where they put a splint on her leg. The leg healed completely, but her owner couldn’t afford corrective surgery, so Nina does have a slight limp. But don’t worry, this doesn’t stop Miss Nina from playing at 100%!

Unfortunately, Nina’s owners abandoned her after the surgery. She was at the shelter for almost two months, so we finished her vet care and placed her in a wonderful foster home. Here’s what Nina’s foster home has to say: “Nina is very playful and energetic! She warms up to new dogs and people, and she lives with 2 cats. Her back left leg is weak, but she doesn’t let it stop her from running and playing! She is so sweet and loving and she does like to cuddle after a day of play. She deserves a fun-loving, caring home! She is fully crate and house trained, and she’s doing better with her food aggression towards other animals.

Nina is trained in basic obedience. She plays well with toys, and she loves fetch. She is a fairly well-mannered adult dog.” Nina will require a fenced yard and a home check will be done to confirm the fenced yard. She will want to be inside with you so this doesn’t mean she is to be left in the yard all the time. If children are in the household, they must be 12 or older due to her food aggression issues, just to be on the safe side. Nina is crate and house trained. Nina is spayed, current on vaccinations, heart worm negative, and on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. She is having fun living in a home environment again but very ready for a place to call her own home! Nina has been through so much, and she deserves a wonderful, loving home. Will it be yours?

If you are interested in giving Hannah or Nina the forever home they want and deserve, visit the Humane Society of West Alabama at http://www.humanesocietyofwa.org or call us at (205)-554-0011.

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SANDRA // PRETTY GIRL Meet Sandra! She is an adult female orange tabby. She is such a pretty girl! Sandra was in foster care for a while, but she now lives at the cat house and is adjusting well. Sandra is a little shy at first, but she will warm up to new people quickly. She is very sweet and loves attention from her people. Sandra would also make a good companion cat for other nice, calm kitties. She is a little shy with more dominant cats, but she warms up to them as well. This sweet girl deserves a loving forever home. Will it be yours? If you are interested in giving Sandra the forever home she wants and deserves, visit the Humane Society of West Alabama at http://www.humanesocietyofwa.org or call us at (205)-554-0011.

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

THE OLD JAIL IS NEW AGAIN!

When Tuscaloosa’s Old Jail was built in 1856 it was considered one of the most secure jails in the Southeast!

O

n the weekend of August 29 and 30, the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society Decorators Break-Out Showcase will secure the Jails newest claim to fame as one of Alabama’s most elegantly decorated jails!

The Jail will reveal a number of surprises to visitors. Ten decorators have created inviting and cozy rooms ready for guests to visit and perhaps be inspired by.

And ten designers and florists will offer eye catching, fun, and elegant tablescapes. A 19th century inspired garden is planned to provide a pleasant rest spot featuring cool refreshments as well as the sounds of the Crimson Pride on Saturday at 2pm and soothing mellow jazz at 2pm on Sunday.

Judi Rabel, Chairperson of the Showcase remarked on the Jails history. “The building was a jail, a private residence and a home for girls. For a number of years it served as a meeting place for the VFW and finally during the eighties it housed the American Studies Program for junior and seniors in high school.”

“We hope anyone who has ever visited or been a student on the American Studies program at the Jail will join us to see how much has been changed,” added Claire Friday, President of the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society. “ I must add that we very much appreciate the help the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education has given us in opening the Jail! “.

Friday added that the decorators, designers, florists, landscapers and numerous volunteers have worked very hard to create this fun weekend. “We hope to see lots of folks visiting and enjoying what has been accomplished.”

Tickets are $25 for each day. Hours are from 10a.m. to 4p.m. on Saturday, August 29 and from 1p.m. to 4p.m. on Sunday, August 30.

For more information and tickets please call the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society (205) 758-338 or (205) 758-2906 or visit historictuscaloosa.org.

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AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

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>>> MUSIC | A L A N S C U L L E Y

T

he last time the Drive-By Truckers went into the studio to record new music — a session that yielded two albums, 2010’s “The Big To-Do” and 2011’s “Go-Go Boots” — singer/guitarist Mike Cooley was something of a bystander when it came to the songwriting.

He may have been listed alongside the other band members as contributing to the music, but in reality, his songwriting counterpart in the Truckers, singer/guitarist Patterson Hood, brought in the vast majority of the songs.

For someone like Cooley, who has usually shared the songwriting load pretty equally with Patterson, this was distressing.

“I’ve always kind of gone in cycles,” Cooley said of his songwriting output during a recent phone interview. “But this one was especially long and disturbing. I felt more pressure. ‘A Blessing and a Curse’ (the group’s 2006 album) back then that was a really dark period for me, too. I didn’t have as much coming in with that.

And of course, by the next album, I had kind of a spurt. But it’s always gone like that. And it can be scary. But what generally starts happening is it gets closer to time to start recording and you start putting this pressure on yourself and you start stressing out about it. Then you’re definitely not going to write anything, or at least nothing that’s worth a s**t. So I

pretty much had to get through that, get those albums out, and we took this time off to get my head back in that space and let it happen. And it did. It’s a great feeling.”

Indeed, the Drive-By Truckers did take a chunk of time off in 2012 and 2013, after completing the touring cycles behind the one-two punch of “The Big To-Do” and “Go-Go Boots.”

And one thing that helped Cooley rediscover his songwriting groove was a project he took on during the band’s down time — a string of solo acoustic shows. He had never tried playing solo shows, and rather than trying to create new material for that undertaking, he drew from his back catalog of Drive-By Truckers songs. Nevertheless, this project had a good effect on his creativity.

“Even though I wasn’t doing new material — I was basically out doing stuff from Drive-By Truckers records— but I re-thought it all,” Cooley said. “I spent a lot of time. I worked real hard trying to come up with ways to make them (the songs) interesting in that setting, in that solo acoustic thing. And I think working on something is hardly ever a bad thing. Even if the results of it aren’t immediately obvious, there’s something positive about having some sort of goal oriented focus. And it got me back into the, I don’t know, I think it did, it gave me some confi-

DAVID MCCLISTER

DRIVE BY TRUCKERS

dence, for one thing. It’s a good kind of confidence because it’s not a cocky confidence. It’s just more of having your feet more firmly planted.

“My goal really was to get comfortable with doing that kind of a show, because I never had been. I’d never done it much. I didn’t know if I was comfortable with it or not,” he said. “I had enough to learn. But I did, and that was scary and now that we’re into shows with the band, I would say I’m more in control of my own thing. So I think that level of confidence, that productive kind of confidence helped me believe I could do it (write songs) again.”

Whatever happened, something clearly got the songwriting juices flowing again for Cooley. He wrote six of the 13 songs on the latest Drive-By Truckers’ album, “English Oceans.”

Among his standouts are the album opener “S**t Shots Count” (a rocker with a cool, poppy guitar hook), “Hanging On” (a romp with a bit of an old-time barrelhouse blues accent) and “Hearing Jimmy Loud” Cover of lastest album “English Oceans”

(a crunchy rocker that’s a highlight of “English Oceans”). Hood, meanwhile, pitches in “When He’s Gone” (a seething, twangy rocker that rides the tension of conflicting emotions), “Pauline Hawkins” (a catchy, musically upbeat rocker) and the cinematic ballad “Grand Canyon” (a song about long-time friend Craig Lleske, who died of a heart attach in January 2013).

“English Oceans” is the 10th studio album from the Drive-By Truckers, which formed in 1996 in Athens, Georgia.

The album features the studio debut of a somewhat revamped lineup of the group, with Hood, Cooley and long-time drummer Brad Morgan joined by bassist Mike Patton (replacing Shonna Tucker) and keyboardist/guitarist Jay Gonzalez (who joined in 2008).

Cooley said the revamped lineup gelled quickly and the new songs translate well to the live stage.

“The thing about this one is all of the songs work really well live,” Cooley said.

“I don’t think any of them create any lull in the live shows that you sometimes deal with new material.”

>>> L O C A L B A R S

18

4th & 23rd //

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The Legacy // 345-4848

AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

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Southern Bridal Show/ BJCC

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Keb’Mo’ and G. Love & Special Sauce/ Alys Stephens Center

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28

Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo/Legacy Arena at the BJCC

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>>> 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.

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Centennial Olympic Park 265 Park Ave W NW 404.223.4412

Minglewood Hall 1555 Madison Ave 901.312.6058

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre 2200 Encore Pkwy 404.733.5010

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AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

19

>>> PUZZLEMANIA | C R O S S W O R D P U Z Z L E

Across 1. Proposed 8. West Point student 13. Like most promgoers 14. American, for one 16. Petty 17. Dig up 18. Embattled forest in World War I 19. Racetrack tout 20. Designer Vera 21. Mel of Cooperstown 22. Roth ____ (savings option) 23. "Your Three Minutes ___" (1973 movie) 25. Snoozes 27. Dusk, in verse 28. Doctrines 31. Reagan "Star Wars" prog.

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36. Where the President works 40. Queen of the coop 41. "Yeah, sure" 42. ___ Gay, W.W.II plane 44. Western tribe 45. Snow, in Scottish dialect 46. Oscar winner for "Moonstruck" 47. "The Lord of the Rings," for one 49. Rock-clinging mollusk 52. Easily defended 53. Advertising avenue 54. Toadies 55. Hyundai model 56. Old anesthetic 57. Unbeatable foes

Down 1. City where Canada's parliament meets 2. Status symbol on wheels 3. Faked 4. American female R&B band 5. Water from above 6. Western star Richard 7. Mark of omission 8. Moved slowly 9. Word of woe 10. Soils 11. Went in 12. Resident of Iran's capital 14. Navigation aid 15. Essentially 24. Cartoon opossum 25. "Shine On, Harvest Moon" singer and co-composer 26. Lithe 29. With a lot of affection 30. Umpire's call 33. U.S. spacecraft retired in 2011 34. Backpedal 35. Part of a foot 37. Slope 38. Regis and Kelly, e.g.

39. 1968 Turtles hit 43. Athletic sites 45. Not pickled 48. Ricki of daytime TV 49. "You can say that again!"

50. Hay unit 51. Eve's partner

>>> PUZZLEMANIA| S U D O K U

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 21

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>>> PLANETWEEKLY • TUSCALOOSA'S SOURCE FOR ENTERTAINMENT, MUSIC, SPORTS & THE ARTS

>>> HOROSCOPES | W E E K L Y O V E R V I E W Much of your energy could be spent sorting out matters at home or in the family. You'll be firing on all cylinders and eager to make changes. As a result, domestic affairs should improve as your partner and other family members share your enthusiasm for DIY projects or other family events. If you enjoy arts and crafts, Jupiter's move to Virgo could make you indulge in your hobby. Not only is it therapeutic but it could also have business potential.

This is an upbeat week with plenty of activity, especially where administrative and communication issues are concerned. With Mars in Leo, there could be the temptation to be a bit pushy. It helps to take a leaf out of Libra's book and see things from the other person's point of view, as doing so can bring positive rewards. If you work in sales or the media, you will certainly be busy, and you could exceed your own and others' expectations.

The temptation to splurge could be hard to shake, especially as Mars in Leo strengthens the desire for certain objects or experiences. If in doubt, take a friend along who can keep you from making unwise purchases. Jupiter's move to Virgo can be excellent for communication, teaching, study, and writing. If you work in media, opportunities may become more plentiful. If you've been meaning to write and publish your first novel, this is definitely the time to start.

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You're in your element, particularly with Mars encouraging you to move outside your comfort zone. It's a good time to explore your creative potential, offer to organize key events, and fulfill your role as manager and motivator. You stand to gain financially as Jupiter moves into Virgo. It will be here for a number of months, so you have time to explore the many possibilities open to you. If you've had financial or cash-flow difficulties, these may begin to ease soon.

The cosmos is encouraging you to take a break, so you're in a phase in which time for quiet reflection is worth its weight in gold. You'll be able to connect with creative ideas as they come bubbling to the surface. Time out allows you to reflect on key issues or problems and make wise decisions concerning them. You're also in for a stroke of good fortune as Jupiter enters your sign. The coming twelve months could be very exciting!

Your social life continues to be buoyant and upbeat, with plenty to amuse and delight you. With Mars now zipping through this sector, you could be busier than ever with parties, celebrations, charity events, and more. You'll love every moment! Jupiter enters Virgo and your spiritual zone on Tuesday, indicating that subtle forces are working on your behalf to support you through dreams, intuition, and unexpected happenings. The cosmos is at your service!

You'll be firing on all cylinders to make the desired progress on career goals and personal ambitions. You'll have the extra energy needed to get the results you seek. As Jupiter edges into Virgo you'll get help from social and networking circles that could put you firmly on the path to success. It's not just what you know but who you know that counts for the foreseeable future. Romance also gets a boost, as do friendships and long-term relationships.

It's time for action and adventure as the current aspects entice you outside your comfort zone. If you've been planning a vacation, you'll likely opt for something different. There's also a chance of romance while you're exploring new places and cultures. More materialistic goals may also be on the agenda as Jupiter dances into Virgo and your career sector. You have more opportunities than ever to succeed with a business goal or plan for the next year or so.

Money seems to take up a lot of your time and energy, but it's all to the good. A desire to increase your income or get your money working harder for you could see you putting in a lot of effort to get the results you want. Keep paperwork and receipts if you're dealing with large amounts of money, as retrograde Venus hints at potential changes. Jupiter's move to Virgo suggests you'll benefit from study or travel adventures that broaden your mind.

Someone could be a force to be reckoned with and a catalyst for positive change in your life. Mars in Leo indicates that those you're closely connected to may inspire you to get moving on a project or plan. In romance, you could be tempted by thoughts of a passionate liaison. Jupiter in Virgo enhances your chances of financial success, especially if you're in business or eager to invest. Be sure to get good advice before you start, however.

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If you've ever thought of hiring a personal trainer, this might be the time. Mars in your health and lifestyle sector can encourage you to get fit and toned. This is a great opportunity to lose a few pounds and feel better as result. Relationships look set to flourish with Jupiter in Virgo for the next year or so. This can bring positive changes to your relationship status, perhaps helping you find "the one" if you're looking for love.

While you may be busy with creative ideas or competitive sports, this week brings a potential shift in interests. As Jupiter hikes into Virgo you may find your energy level and overall vitality increasing. You may also be eager to look into time management as well as ways to streamline your habits and routines for best effect. The New Moon on Friday can be a good time to start a home-based business or ask a special person on a date.

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AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

21

>>> H I G H T I D E S P O R T S | GARY HARRIS

DERRICK HENRY // RUNNINGBACKS ON THE RIGHT FOOT

D

uring a recent interview, Derrick Henry kept things close to vest. The junior running back didn’t reveal much, but he did say the Tide’s running backs got camp started on the right foot.

On the outlook of the RB position: We’re just competing right now, focusing on getting better. Yesterday was day one and we were out there practicing hard. So we’re just focusing on getting better every day in fall camp.

On the depth at RB: Guys aren’t really worried about that. We’re about the fundamentals. Make sure guys are learning and competing every day. That’s the thing about fall camp. You’ve got to come out and compete, get ready every day.

On what he’s seen from the younger RBs: Learning the fundamentals, learning the program, trying to get better, trying to get in shape, trying to become a good player. Just trying to get better.

On freshman RB Damien Harris: He’sworking hard, just like all the other guys out there. He’s learning and that’s what he’s going to continue to do as camp goes along.

On Kenyan Drake still having the same burst after his injury: Kenyan’s working hard from when he got hurt to the spring and to now. He’s doing a great job.

On being a veteran now: I’m just trying to lead by example in a positive way by just working hard and affecting the players around me in a positive way.

On his relationship with Bo Scarbrough: We’re both playing the same position, trying to compete every day and work hard.

On the differences between his first camp and this one: Just a lot more experience. You learn a lot more, you know more about the game. Just trying to get better every day. I’ve accepted the roles of a leader this year and I’m just trying to affect the guys around me.

CYRUS JONES // SKY'S THE LIMIT FOR SECONDARY

enior cornerback Cyrus Jones also spoke to the media about the second-

On new secondary coach Mel Tucker: He’s just another guy that brings energy to the team and demands a lot out of us as DBs and every player. You know what you’re going to get from him -- high energy guy. It’s just a great guy to kind of learn from and pick his brain a little bit.

Just able to learn a lot.

22

AUGUST 13 + AUGUST 27

On other things he’s focusing on: Just paying attention to details and doing the right thing all the time. Focusing on the little things even during small walk-throughs and things like that, taking it serious every time. No plays off.

On how his hip injury has progressed: I feel really good. As close to one-hundred as I can be. No pain. It just feels really good to be back out there.

On what the first contact felt like: I’ve been doing stuff like that throughout the summer, so it wasn’t really the first time doing that, per se. I just felt good to be out there during actual practice with my teammates just working hard towards our ultimate goal which is the season.

On being the leader of the secondary: I’m embracing it pretty well. I mean, I know my role. I have kind an obligation to fulfill for my teammates and the DBs. Just being a guy that’s been out there and experienced a little bit, I’ve been doing a great job of trying to help the young guys kind of get accustomed and make their jobs a little bit easier making that transition.

On not being on the preseason Thorpe Watch list: I’m not going to say disrespected, but, I mean, it is kind of disappointing. Me just being a competitor and knowing what I can do as a player, I do feel like I don’t get the respect sometimes.

But it just adds extra motivation to me.

I don’t take it personal. I don’t play this game for personal accolades. I know as long as I go out there and do my job and play to the caliber I know I can play, those accolades will come. But it’s all about the team.

On A’Shawn Robinson: I think A’Shawn is a real humble guy, quiet. He jokes around, and he has a personality too. It’s just certain guys, once they get around you and get comfortable with you, that’s when they’ll start to come out of their shell. He’s definitely one of those guys.

He has to feel his way around and just get comfortable with you before he can be his true self.

Kendall Sheffield and Ronnie Harrison: I think all of them have great potential to be great players as long as they keep progressing and keep being coachable and stay in their playbook and know what to do. I think that’s the biggest part. We all know what they can do athletically or they wouldn’t be here. I just think it’s all about keeping their head down, staying on the ground and just getting in that playbook.

Their experience will come with time.

On if those three freshmen will contribute this season: Like coach always says, the best players are going to play, so if

they know what to do, that’s the biggest part. We’ll see what coach decides. He controls who steps on that field.

On the next step for the secondary: I just think we have to be hungry at all times. I think we’re going to be one of the most well-prepared teams and secondary in the country week-in and week-out.

I just think as long as we get our personal attitude under control and knowing what we’re going out there to do, coming out there with that chip on our shoulder, I think the sky is the limit for us.

>>> A R T S | KEVIN LEDGEWOOD

BAMA ART HOUSE FILM SERIES FALL

S

creenings in the Bama Art House Film Series Fall 2015 will begin on Aug. 18 and will feature eight films. A program of The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa, the movies represent the organization’s goals to bring new and unique film to the West Alabama area. Screenings will take place at the Bama Theatre on Tuesday nights at 7:30 p.m. with the box office opening at 6:30 p.m. and doors at 6:45 p.m.

Discount Punchcard Tickets ($60) will be available at the door prior to screenings and will be good for any 10 Bama Art House films. Single Tickets will be priced at $8 general, $7 seniors & students and $6 Arts Council members. Patrons can visit bamatheatre.org/bamaarthouse to view the list of films, details and accompanying trailers.

Aug. 18: I’ll See You In My Dreams Aug. 25: Amy- Sponsored by Left Hand

Soap Co. Sept. 1: Love & Mercy Sept. 8: Court- Sponsored by Sanjay &

Dibya Singh Sept. 15: The Look of Silence Sept. 22: No film this week Sept. 29: Irrational Man Oct. 6: A Borrowed Identity Oct. 13: No film this week Oct. 20: Film TBA

Sponsors include Left Hand Soap Company and Sanjay & Dibya Singh.

The mission of the Bama Art House series is to bring current and contemporary independent film to West Alabama, transforming the historic Bama Theatre into a cinematic art house.

For more information about The Arts Council or Bama Theatre, patrons should LIKE the Facebook page “The Arts Council – Bama Theatre – Cultural Arts Center” and follow tuscarts on Twitter.

Call 205-758-5195 or visit bamatheatre. org for further information.

On A’Shawn’s not looking his age: I mean, of course he doesn’t look his actual age. He definitely has that older look.

S

ary.

On placing emphasis on the defense attacking the ball: That’s one of them.

That’s just overall kind for the DBs, every coach preaches that. We always want to attack the ball. That’s a big principle for us this last year and in camp.

On the new summer rule that allowed coaches to work with the players for two hours a week: We took advantage of it as a whole group. Definitely the younger guys getting in there a lot. Me, I was using that time to rehab, I wasn’t really in the film room with them, per se. I know we got a couple of extra hours a week before the 7-on-7s, so those really helped a lot more so for the younger guys than the older guys.

On freshmen DBs• Minkah Fitzpatrick, >>> PLANETWEEKLY TUSCALOOSA'S SOURCE FOR ENTERTAINMENT, MUSIC, SPORTS & THE ARTS

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