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// IN THIS ISSUE SINNER SMART IPA GUILTY PLEASURE CHOWDER NEW YEAR, NEW ME >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

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ENTERTAINMENT 5 CHAMBER NEWS 6 BOOK REVIEW

PUBLISHER

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MANAGING EDITOR

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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 ALEJANDRA TENORIO

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.

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22 STORIES 4 AARON LEWIS // ALLEN SCULLEY

9 BEER/WINE REVIEWS 10 IN THE KITCHEN

RESTAURANT GUIDE

14 PET PLANET

“I’ve been playing it (the “Sinner” album) a bunch, probably about half and half new stuff versus the stuff from the previous records,” Lewis said. “It certainly hasn’t slowed down on how country it is.”

15 MOVIE REVIEWS

6 NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS // RACHEL STEINER

16 EVENTS

“New Years includes many things such as watching the ball drop, celebrating with family and friends, confetti, and football games. In our case, watching the Crimson Tide play Washington on New Years Eve! Roll Tide! Many look at New Years as the first blank page of a 365-day book and have good intentions of writing a worthy one.”

7 TRAVIS TRITT // BIG SPRING ENTERTAINMENT

“A Marietta, Ga. native, Travis Tritt launched his music career 27 years ago. The Grammy award-winning artist continues to sell-out shows, top sales charts and stay true and relevant to Country music fans across the globe. Among his eleven studio albums and numerous charted singles are nineteen Top 10 hits, including “Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde,” “Love Of A Woman” and “T-R-O-U-B-L-E.”

22 COMMUNITY ARTS // HISTORY

The History of New Year's as told by the History.com Staff

19 DECEMEBER ART NIGHT 20 PUZZLEMANIA / EDITORIAL CARTOON 21 HOROSCOPE

HIGH TIDE SPORTS 23

SABAN WEEKLY PRESS CONFERENCE GARY HARRIS

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

AARON LEWIS // SINNER

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aron Lewis encountered his share of naysayers when he first dipped his toes into country music with his 2011 EP, “Town Line.” As the lead singer of Staind, Lewis was a star on the metal scene, and plenty of people dismissed his foray into country as a vanity project.

With the arrival in October of Lewis’ second full-length album, “Sinner,” Lewis said people are taking his intentions to have a solo career in country far more seriously.

“I think that everyone is finally starting to figure out that I’m not going anywhere,” Lewis said in a recent phone interview.

Indeed, Lewis has not gone away. Aside from a Staind tour in summer 2014, that band has been inactive. And since releasing his first full-length album, “The Road,” in 2012, Lewis has been one of the hardest touring artists in country music. He’s reached the point where he’s a reliable headlining draw for theaters and large clubs “My October, November, December tour is already pretty much sold out,” Lewis said. “I’m consistently selling out 2,500 to 3,000 seats with hard tickets.”

Lewis figures to stay focused on country for at least the next year or so and says Staind fans should not expect to see that band reunite any time soon.

“I definitely see it staying on hold for awhile,” he said of Staind. “I’ve got to stay focused on this (country career). I’ve got to take this to where it needs to get to before I can start risking things with the good ol’ boy network reception and throwing in a handful of Staind shows in the summertime along with all of my country shows. But that’s down the road.

I can’t even think about that right now.”

Although appearances may have suggested otherwise, Lewis came to country music honestly. Growing up in Massachusetts, he was immersed in traditional country through his grandfather, a huge country music fan, who had classic country playing throughout the day.

In his later teens, he began getting interested in heavy metal and hard rock, which is why when he emerged on the music scene, it was with Staind, which became one of hard rock’s most popular bands with a string of chart-topping albums, 2001’s “Break the Cycle,” 2003’s “14 Shades of Grey” and 2005’s “Chapter V” and continued to enjoy significant success with later albums like “The Illusion of Progress” (2008) and “Staind” (2011).

The group, though, experienced its share of internal turmoil as time went on and went on hiatus after the 2011 self-titled album.

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With the chance to step out as a solo artist, Lewis re-embraced the country music roots of his youth and released “Town Line” and “The Road,” earning praise for his earthy brand of traditional country music.

It’s full of tales of good times and happy endings, my life ain’t like that/ So I’ll keep listenin’ to the old songs that my granddad used to play/Full of pain and heartache and desperation and the ones that got away.”

He’s earned enough respect that “Sinner” features guest appearances from such major names in country as Willie Nelson, Vince Gill and Alison Krauss.

Lewis’ ideas of how country music should sound were apparent on both “Town

“Story of My Life”) on the new album are considerably darker and more personal – in other words, not that far afield from the kind of self-lacerating, purging lyrics Lewis brought to Staind.

Lewis didn’t get specific about what inspired this shift in his lyrical focus.

Nelson adds his distinctive vocals to the new album’s title track.

“Willie is part of my soundtrack of my childhood,” Lewis said. “I really, I got lucky and just happened to be in the studio with Buddy Cannon, who has done all sorts of Willie records.”

Cannon, a legendary songwriter and producer whose credits include projects with Nelson, Merle Haggard and Reba McEntire, stepped in to produce “Sinner” after Lewis had worked with James Stroud on “Town Line” and “The Road.”

Stroud, who Lewis said has been gearing down on his production work, was able to get country icon George Jones to sing on the song “Country Boy” from the EP. “Just like James Stroud did back in the day, Buddy Cannon picked up his phone, hand dialed the number off of memory and called Willie,” Lewis said. “And Willie said ‘Sure, absolutely, just like George (Jones) did when James called him.”

Now Lewis has gotten to know Nelson well enough that the outlaw country icon invited Lewis to open a string of shows for him before Lewis began his fall headlining tour in October. The two got to know each other off stage during their run of shows.

“It’s just been amazing experience to sit and talk with such an intelligent old man, such a wise old soul,” Lewis said of Nelson.

As for Gill, Lewis got to know the accomplished singer/guitarist after meeting him at a show by Gill’s side band, the Time Jumpers. Gill adds vocals to “That Ain’t Country,” the first single from “Sinner.”

“I’m pretty sure I’m the first artist to have ever gotten him (Gill) to sing the word ‘s***,’” Lewis said, referencing that four-letter word, which is sung rather emphatically in the song.

On “That’s Not Country” Lewis takes aim at current mainstream country music, saying what he hears on radio isn’t what he considers country – both musically and lyrically. The second verse sums up the message: “That ain’t country, that’s a natural fact/

Line” and “The Road.” And now “Sinner” continues to take him down a musical path rooted in the classic country of Haggard, George Jones or other artists of the 1960s and ‘70s.

“Well, I was in a different place in my life, different things to express, different things stuck in my craw,” he said. “It’s just a different time, so different lyrics came.

The tunes generally fall into two general categories – sturdy ballads and kicking rockers. “Sunday Every Saturday Night,” “Whiskey and You” and “Mama” are acoustic based, rougharound-the-edges ballads that would suit the likes of Haggard or Waylon Jennings.

“Sinner” gets shots of energy from “That’s Not Country,” a hard swinging, hard twanging rocker, and “Northern Redneck” another frisky track with some punch and twang, as well as the hearty mid-tempo track, “Story of My Life.”

“I’m very self-destructive,” Lewis said.

“Let’s leave it at that.”

There is one significant twist with “Sinner.” Where Lewis focused more on story songs on his earlier releases, several songs (“Lost and Lonely” and

Lewis wrote the songs on “Sinner” during sound checks on tour over the past several years, and tested out most of them on audiences during concerts over that span. So his shows this fall figure to feature a selection of songs new and old that will be similar to the set lists he played earlier this year.

“I’ve been playing it (the “Sinner” album) a bunch, probably about half and half new stuff versus the stuff from the previous records,” Lewis said. “It certainly hasn’t slowed down on how country it is.”

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>>> N E W S | T H E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

NEWS ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR, TWO RISING STARS NAMED

Mark Tegan and Dr. Rusty Sutterlin, founders of Inventure Renewables, were named the H. Pettus Randall Entrepreneurs of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama at a luncheon ceremony held Wednesday, December 7 at Hotel Capstone. The award is named in honor of local entrepreneur H. Pettus Randall, III, who built Randall Publishing, now Randall Reilly, into one of the 25 largest publishing companies in America. Randall passed away in 2002.

Their company has pioneered a method in which basic waste biomass with a low value is transformed into high-value biofuels, biochemical and biomaterials. Their nearly 40 Ph.D. chemists and chemical engineers take the byproducts of a chemical process, break it down to determine what it is exactly chemically, then invent a way to transform it chemically to a higher value product that can then be sold for a profit.

Inventure Renewables was a resident in the University of Alabama’s AIME technology incubator until 2013, at which time the company graduated to a 30,000-squarefoot facility near downtown Tuscaloosa. “Seeing a Tuscaloosa company create and commercialize cutting-edge technology is satisfying,” says Al Spencer, Vice President for Economic Development and Public Policy for the Chamber. “Inventure Renewables is creating high-tech jobs that keep top University of Alabama tech grads in our community – improving our local economy.”

One of the processes Inventure Renewables invented allows for the chemical retention of heat. This process has been introduced into vests to maintain the body temperature of premature babies in third world countries where there is limited access to incubators.

Since its introduction, this process has been credited with saving 10,000 lives.

The Chamber also presented two Rising Star Awards. The Rising Star is given to a young, growing business in the community.

This year’s recipients are Cahaba Truck & Equipment Company owner Paxton Estes, who is applying new technology to products for the railroad industry, resulting in major increases in efficiency; and Kinematic Sports founders Jared Cassity, Patrick Powell and Jeff Allen, who collaborated to develop the SidelinER tent for Alabama Athletics, which now affords privacy for sideline medical evaluations at NCAA, NFL and high school sporting events. They have already sold more than 50 SidelinERs. “It is great for our community to see the growth and innovation represented by these Rising Star winners,” says Bobby Bragg, Chairman of the Chamber’s Entrepreneur of the Year Committee. “They have taken nascent ideas, refined them and turned them into fantastic businesses. “They have invested in their own ideas, changed their industry and in Kinematic’s case, created a completely new industry. They are employing West Alabama workers and adding to our economy. I’m very proud of all of our winners.”

CHAMBER ADDS NEW WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT MANAGER; NEW VICE PRESIDENT FOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT The Chamber of Commerce has added two new members to its professional staff.

Julie Hindall has been named Workforce Development Project Manager, and Shanna Ullmann has joined the Chamber as Vice President for Community Engagement.

Hindall brings more than 14 years of workforce development experience to the Chamber, having previously served as the Director of the Michigan Works! Monroe Service Center, where she led the staff and management team in successfully linking businesses to employee talent. She will provide support for West Alabama Works and the Region 3 Workforce Development Council, and aid with workforce training efforts in the nine-county region. Hindall will also coordinate activities of numerous workforce organizations.

Ullmann most recently served as Program Manager for Corporate Engagement at The University of Alabama’s Bama at Work. She has more than 20 years’ experience in executive education, corporate training and advising business leaders, universities, the United States military and federal government organizations on leadership development, cross cultural and business communications, mediation and workplace conflict resolution. She will coordinate multiple Chamber councils and affiliate groups, oversee leadership development programs, direct all professional development training and manage the organization’s membership events.

Julie and Shanna are great additions to an already talented Chamber staff,” says Dan Blakley, Market President for Regions Bank and the 2016 Chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors.

Julie Hindall

Shanna Ullmann

BFGOODRICH TIRE MANUFACTURING HOSTS COUNSELOR BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY TOUR

From left, Inventure Renewables COO John Brown and Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Rusty Sutterlin are presented with the Entrepreneur of the Year award by Bobby Bragg, the Chamber’s Vice Chairman for Economic Development, and Al Spencer, Vice President for Economic Development and Public Policy for the Chamber.

Each year, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama presents a Counselor Business and Industry Tour to make K-12 school counselors in the West Alabama area aware of the jobs/careers available in the region, what kind of education/training is needed to obtain these jobs, pathways for students, and more.

This event provides a unique opportunity for counselors to spend the day at a local industry and to hear from business leaders concerning the economic overview for the region. A different industry is highlighted each time.

This year, BF Goodrich Tire Manufacturing was the presenting sponsor and host on Friday, December 9. Sealy Management Co., Inc. served as the gold sponsor. Sixty counselors attended the event and, for the first time ever, all nine counties in our workforce region were represented. Big thanks to BF Goodrich for going above and beyond to present a fantastic program!

See Chamber News, Page 7

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>>> H E A LT H | D R . R AC H E L S T E I N E R

NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS

>>> B O O K R E V I E W

CIVIL WAR ALABAMA

CHRISTOPHER LYLE MCILWAIN, SR

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N

ew Years includes many things such as watching the ball drop, celebrating with family and friends, confetti, and football games. In our case, watching the Crimson Tide play Washington on New Years Eve! Roll Tide! Many look at New Years as the first blank page of a 365-day book and have good intentions of writing a worthy one. Statistically each January, 48% of Americans make some kind of resolution but only 8% follow through with them. The most common resolutions include: self-improvement of some sort like education, weight loss, quitting smoking, or starting an exercise routine. New Years resolutions are often long-term goals, which take awhile such as losing 50 pounds, getting promoted or a better job, or completely changing your lifestyle. Because they cannot be attained instantly or even in the short run, people quickly get overwhelmed and give up. Do not give your resolutions a yearlong time stamp; instead make resolutions that can be more quickly achieved so you seeing changes which will give you the motivation to actually stick with it. Below are some tips to help set and achieve your goals.

Set SMART resolutions Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time-specific You are Human It is okay if you mess up, don’t be so hard on yourself. Just make sure you learn from your mistakes. There are going to be set backs along the way, but acknowledge them and move on.

Have a support system Tell a friend or family member about your resolution and have them hold you accountable. Better yet, find someone who has the same or similar goals as you and strive to achieve them together. Oftentimes we find we can push ourselves beyond what we thought or not cave in to an old habit when we are along side someone else who is watch-

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ing or going through the same thing.

There’s also a lot to be said for having a friend or group sharing your same passion of change and will keep you moving closer and closer to your ultimate goal.

Little steps to change Breaking a habit or starting a new one is difficult, so start with small changes that will add up to a big change. For example if you are wanting to lose 50 pounds in 2016, it is better to start with small changes in your diet and exercise as opposed to completely changing your lifestyle starting on January 1st 2017.

If your diet is not the greatest, start by adding one fruit and vegetable a day and eliminating one processed food. If you plan on starting to exercise, start with just 10 minutes a day and adding a minute every week to your routine. If you are a soda drinker, try cutting out one soda a day and replacing it with water.

Making small changes will allow your body to adjust to the new you and you won’t have a feeling of being burnt out.

You should absolutely strive to better yourself by accomplishing goals. However, you shouldn't force your goals when the time isn't right. New Year's might feel like a great time to take a stand, but you're better served waiting until you're more fully committed -mentally, physically, and spiritually. Have hope, try new things, see the good, challenge yourself, choose to be happy, and become your best you. Cheers to 2017, I hope this is the best year yet and wishing you lots of success as you make a positive change in your life.

hristopher McIlwain’s Civil War Alabama is a landmark book that sheds invigorating new light on the causes, the course, and the outcomes in Alabama of the nation’s greatest drama and trauma. Based on twenty years of exhaustive research that draws on a vast trove of primary sources such as letters, newspapers, and personal journals, Civil War Alabama presents compelling new explanations for how Alabama’s white citizens came to take up arms against the federal government.

A fledgling state at only forty years old, Alabama approached the 1860s with expanding populations of both whites and black slaves.

They were locked together in a powerful yet fragile economic engine that produced and concentrated titanic wealth in the hands of a white elite. Perceiving themselves trapped between a mass of disenfranchised black slaves and the industrializing and increasingly abolitionist North, white Alabamians were led into secession and war by a charismatic cohort who claimed the imprimatur of biblical scripture, romanticized traditions of chivalry, and the military mantle of the American Revolution.

And yet, Alabama’s white citizens were not a monolith of one mind. McIlwain dispels the received wisdom of a white citizenry united behind a cadre of patriarchs and patriots. Providing a fresh and insightful synthesis of military events, economic factors such as inflation and shortages, politics and elections, the pivotal role of the legal profession, and the influence of the press, McIlwain’s Civil War Alabama illuminates the fissiparous state of white, antebellum Alabamians divided by class, geography, financial interests, and political loyalties.

Vital and compelling, Civil War Alabama will take its place among the definitive books about Alabama’s doomed Confederate experiment and legacy.

Although he rigorously dismantles idealized myths about the South’s “Lost Cause,” McIlwain restores for contemporary readers the fervent struggles between Alabamians over their response to the epic crisis of their times.

Christopher Lyle McIlwain Sr. is an attorney in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, who has spent the last twenty-five years researching nineteenth-century Alabama,

focusing particularly on law, politics, and the Civil War. His article “United States District Judge Richard Busteed and the Alabama Klan Trials of 1872” appeared in the Alabama Review.

“Exhaustively researched, skillfully compiled, and engagingly written, McIlwain’s impressive volume is a service to scholars searching for greater detail and support for their own work, as well as Alabamians hoping to understand exactly how their state could fall into the grip of destructive demagogues and ruinous rebellion.”

—H-Net Reviews “Civil War Alabama is one of the most interesting and provocative studies of a Confederate state that has appeared in recent years. McIlwain presents an impressive amount of fresh research and information that advances a number of striking and controversial interpretations.”

—George C. Rable, author of God’s Almost Chosen Peoples: A Religious History of the American Civil War “McIlwain has produced an engaging, often witty, and always informative study of the development of Reconstructionist thought in Alabama. This is a topic that has only recently garnered serious attention, and so McIlwain stands as one of its pioneers.”

—Ben H. Severance, author of Portraits of Conflict: A Photographic History of Alabama in the Civil War and Tennessee’s Radical Army: The State Guard and Its Role in Reconstruction, 1867–1869

The University of Alabama Press is a proud member of the Association of American University Presses. The Press currently publishes 70-75 new titles a year and has over 1,800 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.

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TRAVIS TRITT TO PERFORM RARE SOLO-ACOUSTIC SHOW AT THE BAMA THEATRE Tickets on sale NOW through the Bama Theatre website and Etix.com.

Tuscaloosa, AL (December 9, 2016) – Enjoy a special evening with CMA and Grammy awardwinning country artist, Travis Tritt. Experience this rare opportunity featuring the multi-platinum artist in an intimate solo-acoustic setting where his powerful voice and his guitar are the subject of the spotlight.

An up-close and personal event punctuated by personal stories and anecdotes about his life and musical influences. Performing some of his biggest hits, including “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “It’s A Great Day to Be Alive” and “Best of Intentions;” the Grand Ole Opry member will bring his award-winning songs to life and leave the audience with a truly memorable experience.

About Travis Tritt: A Marietta, Ga. native, Travis Tritt launched his music career 27 years ago. The Grammy award-winning artist continues to sell-out shows, top sales charts and stay true and relevant to Country music fans across the globe. Among his eleven studio albums and numerous charted singles are nineteen Top 10 hits, including “Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde,” “Love Of A Woman” and “T-R-O-U-B-L-E.” Travis Tritt’s twenty-five year career has produced millions in album sales, two Grammy award wins and multiple No. 1 singles on the Country radio charts. For more

information on Travis Tritt, visit his website TravisTritt.com and follow him on Twitter and Facebook.

When: Thursday, January 26, 2017 at 7:30pm Where: Bama Theatre, 600 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Additional Information: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The show is presented

by Big Spring Entertainment. Ticket prices are $59.75 and $49.75.

Additional fees may apply.

About Big Spring Entertainment: The Southeast's fastest growing independent promoter, Big Spring Entertainment is a full service concert and entertainment promotion company based in Huntsville, AL with offices in Nashville, TN. BSE has over 14 years of experience producing, booking, and promoting shows, across the Southeast. We specialize in theaters, performing art centers, arenas, and amphitheaters.

For more information on BSE visit BigSpringEntertainment.com and follow them on Facebook.

CHAMBER NEWS, continued from page 5

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>>> R E S TAU R A N T R E V I E W | S H E E N A G R E G G

Photos Courtesy of Sheena Gregg

O’HENRY’S COFFEE // COZY AND COMFORTING T

uscaloosa runs on coffee….lots and lots of coffee. For the size of our community, I’m often impressed with the number of coffee shops that we have in the place that I call home. Sure we’ve got our national chains like Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts, but we’ve also got plenty of cozy locally owned businesses in town. Newest to this mix is the Birmingham-based OHenry’s Coffee which made its debut to Ttown in October.

Opening its first location in Homewood in 1993 by Dr. Henry Bright and his wife Beverly, not many patrons are familiar with how the coffee shop got its name. According to Mrs. Bright, she would lovely yell “Oh Henry…” as she would remind Dr. Bright of something else as he ran out the door each morning. Fast-forward to 1999, with Randy and Mary Adamy purchasing OHenry’s Coffees and dedicating themselves to learning all the coffee knowledge that Dr. Bright poured into the coffee shop.

Having been to a few of the locations in the Birmingham area, I knew that I had to make an appearance at the fifth location in my home of Tuscaloosa. I’ve always appreciated the cozy atmosphere that OHenry’s is known for and the understood agreement that the staff doesn’t mind if you stay with them all day long. According to OHenry’s owner Randy Adamy, his mission is to make people happy while serving them. “You just want people to walk in our shop, inhale the coffee atmosphere, and instantly have a better day. We just want to be that for people…a place to make them feel good and forget about their day for just a bit,” says Adamy.

Walking into the downtown Tuscaloosa location on a blustery afternoon, there is no doubt my demeanor changed as I inhaled the atmosphere of the shop and noticed the cool, collected, assortment of patrons chatting, relaxing, and studying in the shop.

Sure I was coming in for coffee, but the first thing that caught my eye was how unique the all day food menu was compared to the other OHenry’s locations I had been to. My eyes danced to the Moroccan lentil soup, and then jumped to the kale, quinoa, and brown rice salad. I then made a mental note to come back for breakfast the next morning to have a Conecuh cheddar biscuit.

Truth be told, it was hard to leave OHenry’s that day. As I sipped my mocha latte, I knew that the rest of my day would be great because I finally had a chance for some

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“me” time. I have a feeling that other patrons felt the same way as well. With a staff that was warm and welcoming, there was no question that they took pride in the company and products. Though this story started in Birmingham, I think it will be easy for Tuscaloosa to call OHenry’s its own.

OHenry’s Coffee is located at 2531 University Boulevard, Suite 100 and opened daily. Tweet us @ThePlanetWeekly and let us know where you are eating!

Concerned about climate risk energy freedom?

SOUTHERN ENERGY FREEDOM TOUR Come learn how you can engage your member of Congress and community on a market-friendly solution to climate change that can also increase your family energy freedom of choice WHEN Tuesday, October 18, 2016 @ 6:30 to 7:30 pm WHERE Forest Lake Methodist Church Tuscaloosa SPEAKERS Peter Bryn, Ricky Bradley, and Bishop Dansby RSVP CCLtuscaloosa@gmail.com

"I support what Citizens' Climate Lobby is doing and I support your Carbon Fee and Dividend solution.”

George Schultz: Former Secretary of State under Ronald Reagan

"Most impressive is the work of Citizens' Climate Lobby...”

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

Dr. James Hansen: Former head of NASA Goddard Institute

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MONKISH BREWING // IPA FLORA SPRINGS TRILOGY// INTELLIGENT EMBELLISHMENT RED WINE

B

eer trading has been a huge part of the craft beer scene for quite some time now, and if you’re not familiar, it’s time you get acquainted.

Basically, as I’m sure you’re aware, there are a handful of breweries that are more sought after than others and as are their brews. If someone is lucky enough to live near one of these coveted breweries, they will usually attend bottle/can releases and purchase enough to keep a few and then use others as trading incentives.

You’ll often see breweries like Other Half from New York or Maine Beer Co. from Freeport, ME sprinkled in among several other breweries that have created some sort of buzz online in forums for trading.

The only downside to this is that it does get a little expensive. Some of these coveted bottles or cans can reach a pretty high price tag, so you’ll have to reciprocate the offering with something as equally sought after or a collection of brews to make the trade legit. I say all this to bring you to the beer that’s the basis of this review. A friend of mine received a few cans of Intelligent Embellishment from Monkish Brewing out of California. They’re creating quite a stir with their juicy IPAs and Double IPAs. So, he tossed a can my way and I am forever grateful for that, because this thing is top notch. Here are my thoughts: First of all, let’s talk about the can. I hate it. I’ve never been a fan of this type of space odyssey design and I don’t think I ever will. Maybe if the can was an all over print it would look a little better rather than just a sticker, but I just can’t get behind it.

Luckily, the contents in the can were much more appealing.

The color of the beer kind of threw me off a bit, because it’s so much lighter than most IPAs I’ve been drinking lately; it almost looks like carbonated orange juice.

It poured a very light yellow-orange color with a fast dissolving fluffy white head.

There’s a good bit of cloudiness to the beer, but not quite opaque.

The aroma of this beer was to die for. I’ve seen some people talk about how they couldn’t really detect a scent, but they must be smell blind. Right off the bat you get strong notes of grapefruit and citrus paired with a bit of earthiness. This is truly a wonderful smelling beer.

Tasting this beer put me at a loss for words at the time. Now that I sit and reflect on it, I can come up with a few. At first, you’re bombarded with an intense tropical and citrus flavor that is more intense than I’ve ever tasted in any other beer, and just to clarify, this is all from hops. About half way through, you can begin to pick up some of those earthy and pine notes from the nose that begin to balance out the beer and clean up the intense fruit flavor. Toward the end, you get a real taste for the alcohol, but not in a bad way by any means; it’s

6.5% anyway. The way these flavors blend together makes it exceptional and a testament to the incredible things that people can do with just hops and no added flavors. When I say this beer tastes like juice, I am not kidding in the slightest bit. There’s no overwhelming front end bitterness that you get with a lot of IPAs because this one has most of the hops added toward the end of the boil to retain all that beautiful citrus and tropical flavor.

Expertly done, Monkish.

Mouthfeel is great, because the carbonation isn’t quite that high, so it lets the hops and the flavor of the beer shine through much easier. As the beer warms though, it does get a bit heavier on the stomach. But if I was drinking this from the can, I wouldn’t be able to let it get warm and that’s a fact.

Overall, this is an incredible beer with some incredible flavors. There’s something mystifying about the world of hops and the flavors they can impart on a beer. With all the tropical citrus flavors mixed with the piney notes, this one is extremely balanced and well done. I could tank an entire case with ease if left alone with it, but unfortunately, this is one you’ll have to do some digging for. Or you could just trade that one special bottle you’ve been holding on to for so long. You won’t really miss it after you’ve had this one.

F

rom the bottle: Our family has crafted Trilogy, the finest Cabernet-based blend possible from our Napa Valley estate vineyards, since 1984. The blend is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec and 6% PV. We tasted the 2014 vintage of Flora Springs Trilogy (public release February 2017).

Appearance In the glass, Trilogy is highly opaque.

The color is very, very dark ruby and what little light shines through is cranberry in tone. Legs are extremely fine, numerous and tightly packed, falling at various speeds in the glass.

When we observed the legs, we decided they reminded us of a distant view of snow covered ski trails on the top of a mountain.

Aroma As we started evaluating the appearance, we were immediately distracted by the wine’s excellent and complex aroma. It was pronounced in intensity and fully developed.

For Al it was dominated by currant, spicy cinnamon and nutmeg. For myself, my first impression was buttery pancakes! I later qualified it as caramel with a hint of tar.

I noted a mild sting of alcohol and best-guessed it to be 14.2%. I was right on the money! Flora Springs Trilogy alcohol content 14.2% by volume, per the bottle.

Taste The wine’s taste was nothing short of fantastic! It revealed spicy currant, red fruits, cranberry, caramel and smoke.

Al even said “Hats off to the Komes and Garvey family!”

Mouthfeel and Tannins The wine’s mouthfeel was velvety with a medium level of tannicity.

The tannins themselves were supple and noted all over the palate.

Finish Trilogy gave us a long finish, dominated equally by the wine’s flavor and tannins.

Overall Opinion We both enjoyed this wine immensely.

Trilogy is complex, smooth and memorable in both aroma and taste.

There’s so much going on with this wine! The complexity was amazing and there was a great balance of all the different characteristics. Everything was great! Highly recommend!

Jon’s quote: A fabulous blend that rises to the top of the sea of blends out there. Flora Springs Trilogy price $80.00 with just 5,050 cases produced.

Suggested Food Pairing Specific to Trilogy, we paired this wine with a New York Strip steak after our formal tasting. With the steak, Trilogy retains a more fruit forward taste. It keeps its boldness even with a strong seasoning and not surprisingly the tannins become more muted.

The paring worked perfectly with this wine, but Trilogy also stands easily on its own as a superb sipper.

Cheers!

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>>> I N T H E K I T C H E N | R AC H E L PA X T O N

>>> RESTAURANTS |

WARM CHOWDERS FOR COOL DAYS

BREAKFAST / LUNCH Brown Bag

Now that the days are getting cooler, a warm dinner really hits the spot at the end of a long, hard day. These chowder recipes are easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with your family.

CORN CHOWDER 5 slices bacon, diced 1 1/2 c. potatoes, peeled and diced 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 1/2 c. water 1 can cream-style corn 2 c. milk 1 tsp. salt Pepper Butter

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.

International House of Pancakes 724 Skyland Blvd // 366.1130 Jack's 1200 Hackberry Lane | Tuscaloosa // 345.1199 Mr. Bill's Family Restaurant 2715 McFarland Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 333.9312

SAUSAGE BEAN CHOWDER 2 lb. link sausage 2 cans (16 oz. each) kidney beans 1 can (1 lb. 13 oz.) tomatoes, broken up 1 qt. water 1 large onion, chopped 1 bay leaf 1 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt 1/2 tsp. garlic 1/2 tsp. thyme 1/8 tsp. pepper 1 c. diced potatoes 1/2 green pepper, chopped

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

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

T-Town Café 500 14th Street, Tuscaloosa | 759-5559 |www.ttowncafe.com Mon - Fri 6am - 3pm; Sat - Closed; Sun 10:30am - 3pm The Waysider 1512 Greensboro Ave // 345.8239 Open for breakfast and lunch. Smoke free.

MEXICAN

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

In a skillet, cook sausage until brown. Pour off fat. In large kettle or crock pot combine kidney beans, tomatoes, water, onion, bay leaf, salt, thyme, and pepper. Add sausage, simmer for at least an hour. If using crock pot you may simmer all day. The longer this soup cooks the better it is. Add potatoes and green pepper. Cook, covered, until potatoes are tender. Remove bay leaf.

HAM CHOWDER 4 large carrots, diced 4 stalks celery, diced 1 small onion 4 large potatoes 5 cups water 4 cups diced ham 2 tbsp. butter Salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper 6 tbsp. flour 2 1/2 cups milk Garnish with paprika and chopped parsley

Don Tono's 2312 4th Street | Temerson Square // 345.9191 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 Iguana Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 752.5895 Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill 2001 New Watermelon Rd | Northport // 342.3378 LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871 Los Calientes Mexican Grill 3429 McFarland Blvd E // 553.1558 Los Tarascos (2 locations) 1759 Skyland Blvd // 553.8896 3380 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 330.0919

In a stock pot or soup kettle, cook carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes in 5 cups water until tender (about 20 minutes). Add ham, butter, salt, and pepper. Blend flour into milk until smooth, stir into soup. (Warm milk in microwave before adding flour). Heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils. Turn heat to low and allow to simmer, partially covered, 10-20 minutes to develop flavor.

Pour soup into bowls, sprinkle top with paprika and chopped parsley.

SALMON CHOWDER 1 can cream of mushroom soup 4 c. potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 can salmon 3 tbsp. butter 1 c. onion, finely chopped 2 carrots, chopped finely 1 c. broccoli, chopped finely 2 tsp. Mrs. Dash seasoning

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

Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom of five. For more recipes, gardening, organizing tips, home decorating, holiday hints, and more, visit Creative Homemaking at http://www.creativehomemaking.com.

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

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

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

ITALIAN

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

Varied beer and wine selection.

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

CASUAL DINING

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

Pepito’s (2 locations) 1203 University Blvd | The Strip // 391.9028 1301 McFarland Blvd NE // 391.4861

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.

Taco Mama 2104 A University Blvd, Tuscaloosa // 409.8173

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

FINE DINING

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

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.

Melt butter in large saucepan. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and broccoli and saute for about 5 minutes. Add potatoes and enough water to barely cover the potatoes. Stir in salmon with juices. Cook, covered, until the potatoes are tender (15 to 20 minutes). Add cream of mushroom soup and Mrs. Dash and stir until soup is well blended. Heat but do not boil.

DEC 21 + JAN 4

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.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store 4800 Doris Pate Dr | Exit 76 // 562.8282 www.crackerbarrel.com

In a large saucepan, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon from pan and set aside. Drain grease, leaving 3 tbsp. in the pan. Add onion slices and cook until lightly browned. Add potatoes and water and cook until potatoes are tender (10 to 15 minutes). Add corn, milk, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through. Top each serving with bacon and butter.

10

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

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.

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

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

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

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>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

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.

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

Logan's Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd E // 349.3554

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

Madear’s 1735 Culver Road // 343.7773 Mon–Fri 6 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 2nd & 3rd Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

WingZone 1241 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 342.2473

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

Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ 4215 Greensboro Ave | Tuscaloosa // 331.4858 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Sun lunch

Newk’s Express Cafe 205 University Blvd. East // 758.2455 Fax: 758.2470 // www.newkscafe.com 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 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.

BARBEQUE

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

Tacogi 500 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 342.3647

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

248-7666

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.

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.

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

Outback Steakhouse 5001 Oscar Baxter Dr // 759.9000

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 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, full bar Champs Sports Grille 320 Paul Bryant Drive | inside Four Points Sheraton Hotel // 752.3200 Breakfast and lunch buffets. Sunday brunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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

R. Davidson Chophouse 2330 4th St. /Downtown Tuscaloosa/ 2056148782 We specialize in traditional American steakhouse fare including filets, New York strips, ribeyes, porterhouses, and more.The wine list and cocktail menus are exceptional and rotate with the seasons. Reservations are available online at rdchophouse.com or by phone.

Hours - Tuesday – Friday Lunch – 11:00am – 2:00pm; Cocktail Hour – 4:00pm; Dinner – 5:00pm - untill. Saturday: Lunch – 11:00am – 4:00pm; Cocktail Hour – 4:00pm; Dinner – 5:00pm - until. Sunday Brunch: 10:00am - until

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.

New Orleans Steak and Seafood House 824 McFarland Blvd |11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily. // 248-7666 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) 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 Hours: Mon-Thurs 11 AM-9 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM-10 PM, Sun 10:30 AM-3 PM (Happy Hour Mon-Thurs 2 PM-6 PM) leveebarandgrill.com

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>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

CHINESE

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

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

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

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

China Fun 2600 University Blvd | Alberta City // 553.2435

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

Chongwah Express 1425 McFarland Boulevard, Northport. 333-1088

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

Hot Wok Express 6751 Alabama 69, Tuscaloosa // 758.0148

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

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

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

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

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

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

PIZZA AND SUBS

A Taste Of Chicago 1700 Greensboro Avenue 205-342-DOGS Mon. - Thurs. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

17th Street and Greensboro Avenue. Authentic Chicago style foods.

Italian Beef Sandwiches, Chicago Rib Tips, and Chicago Style Pizza.

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

COFFEE SHOP

Barnes & Noble 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 349.6366 Five Java Coffee, fresh juices, smoothies and treats from Mary's Cakes.

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

California Underground 13552 Highway 43, Northport | 339.8660

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

Firehouse Subs 1130 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 248.0680

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

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

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

Lenny’s Sub Shop 220 15th St // 752.7450 // Fax: 752.7481 // www.lennys.com Little Caesars Pizza 1414 10th Ave // 366.2220 | 1www.littlecaesars.com Little Italy 1130 University Blvd. // 345.4354 Mellow Mushroom 2230 University Blvd | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 758.0112 Subs n' You 2427 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.758.0088 Roly Poly Sandwiches 2300 4th Street | Tuscaloosa // 366.1222 The Pita Pit 1207 University Blvd | The Strip // 345.9606 Hours: Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m. - 3 a.m. | Sun 11:30 a.m. - midnight Pizza 120 50115th St. East | 561.6853 Pizza Palace Buffet 6521 Alabama 69 | 752.5444 Tut’s Place 1306 University Blvd | The Strip // 759.1004

DELICATESSEN

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

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

DESSERTS

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

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

Dunkin' Donuts 2520 Stillman Blvd. |Tuscaloosa// 349.3400 McCorvey Dr. | Tuscaloosa // 348.4041 www.dunkindonuts.com Mary's Cakes & Pastries 412 22nd Avenue | behind Opus | Northport // 345.8610 www.maryscakesandpastries.com Mon–Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Sat 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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

TCBY (3 Locations) 2304 Mcfarland Blbd | Meadowbrook Shopping Center // 349.4661 // 2 Mcfarland Blvd | Northport | Essex Shopping Center // 758.6855 // 1130 Univ. Blvd. | The Strip // 345.0804 Yogurt In Love Patriot Center 7402 Highway 69 South Phone Number: 764.9173 Fax Number: 764.9228 Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday & Saturday 11 a.m.-10 pm.

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

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

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DEC 21 + JAN 4

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DEC 21 + JAN 4

13

>>> PET PLANET

TUX // MELLOW BOY

TROOPER // STUD MUFFIN

M

Meet Tux, a two-year-old male.

This short-haired cat has a handsome black and white coat and beautiful yellow eyes. This mellow boy is looking for a forever home so he can snuggle, play, and nap to his heart's delight. Tux is available at the Humane Society of West Alabama's cat adoption facility.

eet Trooper, a handsome stud muffin who is aptly named. He is an 8-10 month old male terrier/ Labrador mix. He has a smooth rusty brown coat and is now weighing 51 pounds, up about 15 pounds already! He should get to around 60. He was rescued near a hunting camp, and was just literally skin and bones. But Trooper lives up to his name, and he is doing great and loving life!

Trooper is very sweet and loving.

He is good with other dogs and minds very well. He is very gentle with children, but because of his size, we think he'd do better in a home with children ages 8 and over. He will require a fenced in yard, and a home visit will be done to verify. Trooper is a puppy still, so he will need structure and training to help him develop into a well-mannered adult dog. He is still a little chewy and has that fun puppy energy!

Trooper is crate trained and almost house trained, and it's being worked on at his foster home. Trooper is up to date on his vet care, neutered, and is heartworm negative. He is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. Let’s find this big sweet baby his forever home!!

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Tux is current on vaccinations, is litter-box trained, and is neutered.

We hope you will bring him into your heart and home just in time for the holidays!

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

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.

VOLUNTEER

// IN THIS ISSUE SEA OF NOISE FUNKY BUDDHA CAT & MOUSE COMFORT FOOD HO HO HO

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DEC 7 + DEC 21

1

Next Issue // January 4

Advertising Deadline: Friday, December 30 205-523-4668//205-792-7239

theplanetweekly.com 14

DEC 21 + JAN 4

issuu.com/planetweekly

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

DECOMMISSIONED // GUILTY PLEASURE

★★★

OU T OF 4

S

ometimes, if you don’t want to contend with large, shouldernudging, holiday crowds to see the latest theatrical blockbuster, you can resort to either Netflix and Redbox for an entertaining, straight-to-video feature or browse the video racks at your local Walmart for something equivalent. Action movie junkies who crave exciting, old-fashioned, nail-biters may want to consider the suspenseful, fast-paced, abduction/ political assassination melodrama "Decommissioned" as a serviceable alternative. "SWAT: Unit 887" helmer Timothy Woodward, Jr., has cast muscular Johnny Messner as a sympathetic but formidable hero who doesn’t stand around and let the grass grow between his toes. Not only does Woodward, Jr. , stage the bulletblasting action with an adrenaline-like urgency, but he also doesn’t let the plot meander in this low-budget, R-rated, 80-minute actioneer. Scenarist Sean Ryan, who wrote Woodward, Jr.’s previous thriller “Weaponized” that also toplined Messner, has penned this far livelier screenplay here where the hero turns the tables on the villains before they can flip them on him.

Typically, in the usual standard-issue action opus, the protagonist follows the dictates of the villains as they compel him to navigate an obstacle course of complications where things unfold with a predictable familiarity.

What “Decommissioned” lacks in terms of originality, the filmmakers compensate with high velocity heroics. Mind you, the stunts and the explosions don’t generate much in the way of collateral damage, but the shenanigans are sufficient to keep you focused. Aside from Messner, who has made his share of straightto-video sagas, “Decommissioned” has seasoned screen veteran James Remar of "The Warriors" as the sinister villain and the ever-dependable Vinnie Jones as a good guy for a change. The villains assemble for what is essentially a political conspiracy thriller reminiscent of Alan J. Pakula's "The Parallax View" (1974) with Warren Beatty. Furthermore, "Decommissioned" reminded me of the Arnold Schwarzenegger classic "Commando" (1985) because Arnold didn't do what the villains told him to do. He retaliated fearlessly against his captors and did what he wanted so as to rescue his young daughter from the clutches of his enemies.

“Decommissioned” opens with an Abraham Lincoln quote: “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”

Moments afterward, another preface appears, but this one is fictional: “Since 9-11, the CIA commissioned a top-secret unit code named BT85 with the sole purpose of monitoring the American people on American soil.” The exposition continues: “The President of the United States has declared that the CIA’s BT85 Task Force violates the 9th Amendment of the Constitution.” During a televised press conference, President Ford (Richard Burgi of “The Green Inferno”) informs the nation that he has introduced a bill to nullify the BT85 Task Force that has made a mockery of individual privacy. Nevertheless, Ford’s adversaries are determined to thwart his efforts. After the filmmakers present this parcel of information, they shift the scene to our hero, John Niles (Johnny Messner of "Operation Delta Force 4: Deep Fault"), who is relaxing at home with his wife and son. Niles is portrayed as a devoted father as well as a passionate husband who doesn’t shun his marital obligations, much to the delight of his wife, Rebecca (Estella Warren of the 2001 “Planet of the Apes” remake), now that he has retired from a Special Forces Anti-Terrorist Unit. Bad guy David Marino (James Remar) dispatches his hard-knuckled hooligans to abduct our hero. They subject him to the kind of physical torture that no mere mortal could survive and then they reveal that they have kidnapped Rebecca and his son. Predictably, the beaten-up and blood-spattered Niles assures Marino and company that he will go ballistic on all of them if they endanger his family.

Marino leaves Niles in the hands of five sadistic henchmen while he attends to other matters of greater importance.

The last thing that he imagines is that Niles will fulfill his promise of retribution. Not only does Niles snap the restraints holding him against his will in a chair, but he also devastates his captors with lethal force and leaves nobody to testify.

Meanwhile, Niles' superior Michael Price (Vinnie Jones of "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels") wants our hero to infiltrate a seditious cell within the government that has targeted the Chief Executive for termination. He supplies our hero with a computer flash drive that basically

constitutes a ‘get out of jail free card’ because it contains ultra-sensitive government data about 9/11. Mind you, Vinnie Jones is confined largely to a peripheral supporting role, but he makes a strong impression as he pops up at random throughout the beginning, middle, and the end. Amazingly enough, Niles does accommodate his captors to keep them from harming his wife and son. Surprisingly, he does shoot the president and then embarks on a search for his family. Woodward Jr., maintains marginal suspense because we have no idea how seriously Niles has wounded the President. Now, Niles finds himself the object of a manhunt by bad-tempered LAPD Detective Tom Weston (Michael Paré of “Streets of Fire”) who is drawn into the line of fire, too. Ultimately, these two join forces to take down the heavies.

Indeed, the bad guys are notoriously terrible marksmen, even at close range, but they wield some impressive firepower. Some come equipped with sophisticated assault rifles and others tote ordinance far more deadly. Nevertheless, the heroes lead charmed lives and win the day. Johnny Messner delivers a charismatic performance, and Michael Paré is effective as an irate LAPD detective.

Although it is a relatively disposable action thriller, “Decommissioned” qualifies as an above-average guilty pleasure with a couple of surprises, too.

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DEC 21 + JAN 4

15

>>> E V E N T S THURSDAY, DEC 22

Rhythm & Brews Live Music Line up for December WHEN: 5:00pm-12:00am COST: Free WHERE: Rhythm & Brews 2308 4th S Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 750-2992 LINK: http://www.rhythmnbrews.com/ id27.html DESCRIPTION: Rhythm & Brews Live Music Line up for December Thursday, Dec 22nd Jason Miller Friday, Dec 23rd Velcro Pygmies Friday, Dec 30th Them Dirty Roses

TUESDAY, DEC 27

Live Jazz at Alcove WHEN: 8:30pm- 11:30pm COST: Alcove International Tavern 730 22nd Ave Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 WHERE: Green Bar 2209 4th Street Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 469-9110 LINK: http://www.alcovetavern.com/ DESCRIPTION: Live Jazz at Alcove every Tuesday night from 8:30-11:30

SUNDAY, JAN 1

Holidays on the River Ice Rink and Weekly Special Events WHEN: 10:00am-11:30pm COST: WHERE:Tuscaloosa Amphitheater 2710 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-5280 LINK: http://www. tuscaloosaamphitheater.com/ DESCRIPTION: Come out and enjoy one of the most exciting attractions that the City of Tuscaloosa has to offer every holiday season. This premier holiday

event is appropriate for people of all ages. Patrons will enjoy a beautifully decorated 60 ’X 100’ outdoor rink; complete with holiday characters and hourly snow flurries in a fantastic “winter wonderland”. Come watch generations skate together and commence your new family holiday tradition. Tickets to skate may be purchased online or at the box office on-site. Viewing admission is free of charge. ALSO: • Coca Cola Night (free Coca Cola and goodies) – Every Tuesday in December (5-10:30pm) • Free Carriage Rides (horse drawn sleigh) – Dec17, Dec23 • Santa Claus (free sitting – take your own pictures) – Dec17, Dec18, Dec20, Dec23 • Holiday Movie Night (free movie) – Every Wednesday - Dec21, Dec28, Jan4, Jan1

TUESDAY, JAN 3

Tuscaloosa Farmers' Market WHEN: 7:00am-12:00pm COST: Free WHERE: Tuscaloosa Rivermarket 1900 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-5295 LINK: http://www.tuscaloosarivermarket. com/ DESCRIPTION: The Tuscaloosa Rivermarket is located on the banks of the Black Warrior River, hosting the Tuscaloosa Farmers Market and special events throughout the year.

TUESDAY, JAN 3

Auditions: The Real Queen of Hearts Ain't Even Pretty WHEN: 6:00pm-9:00pm COST: WHERE: Bean-Brown Theatre 9500 Old Greensboro Road Tuscaloosa, AL

to Host Kick Event for Breast Cancer

A

local kickboxing gym franchise, 9Round, will be hosting its Kick Event for BreastCancer. Fitness enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to help raise money forThe DCH Foundation, with one penny being donated for every kick recorded throughout the day.

Since the event’s inception five years ago, participating 9Round locations throughout the United States and Canada have recorded over 18.8 million kicks and raised nearly $189,000 to advance breast cancer treatment and laboratory research.

WHEN: Thursday, October 13, 2016, During Regular Hours WHERE: Northport at 80 McFarland Blvd #9 and Tuscaloosa at 2730 Jack Warner Pkwy, A104 Founded in 2008 by professional kickboxer Shannon Hudson, 9Round is a specialized fitness center that brings boxing and kickboxing fitness training to the average person in a convenient, affordable, 30-minute, full body circuit format. The program is developed around a proprietary and copyrighted system of nine challenging workout stations developed by Shannon himself. Today, there are nearly 400 9Round clubs open and operating throughout 39 states and 10 countries.

16

DEC 21 + JAN 4

35405 PHONE: (205) 391-2277 LINK: http://www.theatretusc.com/ DESCRIPTION: Be prepared for cold readings from the script. It's 1976 at the Queen of Hearts beauty pageant in small-town Alabama. All the "popular" girls dream of winning the crown in this witty Southern comedy. Original cast member Drew Baker directs this 35th anniversary production by critically acclaimed Alabama Playwright Brad Bailey.

THURSDAY, JAN 5

OLLI Course Orientation 2 p.m., Open House & Social 3 p.m. on January 5 WHEN: 2:00pm-12:00pm COST: WHERE: Bryant Conference Center 240 Paul Bryant Drive Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 PHONE: (205) 348-8600 LINK: http://www.bcc.ua.edu/index.php DESCRIPTION: Registration for Spring 2017 is ongoing for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at The University of Alabama. Participate in facilitator orientation on January 5th, at 2 pm, before the social. If you are not sure if this fits your talents, you are invited come and find out. If you are available to facilitate, please email Kathy Chastine at kchastine@ccs.ua.edu. The countdown to the Spring OLLI Open House and Social is on now. OLLI looks forward to seeing you on January 5th, at 3 pm! Guests are welcome to register for membership and/or courses while they are at the social. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to get involved with OLLI. IMPORTANT: When you bring a guest that is not a current member – you will be entered into a drawing for a museum basket full of entrance tickets, souvenirs from local museums and a special book about the University Museums. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity for a fun event, and friends are welcome.

WHERE: Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center 7th Street and Greensboro Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 758-5195 LINK: http://cac.tuscarts.org/ DESCRIPTION: A reception will be held at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, Friday, January 6, as part of the First Friday Art Night. The reception is to celebrate the new exhibit, A Shared Individuality, by James Rodger Alexander and Pamela Venz. The artwork of husband and wife duo James Rodger Alexander and Pamela Ann Venz will be on display from Thursday, Jan. 5, to Monday, Jan. 30. Alexander teaches sculpture at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and he will display four of his works consisting largely of steel, wood, and marble. In contrast, Venz, who also has a background in three-dimensional art and photography, will display 11 photographs. She has been teaching photography at Birmingham-Southern College since 1986. The exhibit, titled “A Shared Individuality,” explores how the couple’s 32 years of shared experiences have been individually interpreted through their artwork. According to the exhibit’s abstract, the variation of their artistic responses is magnified by a 15-year difference in their ages, making each a reflection of their own generation.

WEDNESDAY, JAN 7

First Friday Art Night Reception at Dinah Washington CAC WHEN: 6:00pm-12:00pm COST:

Accepting New Patients!

Chiropractic Care Nutritional & Weight Management Programs Sports Physicals 9770 Highway 69 South Unit A | Tuscaloosa Englewood Plaza next to Winn Dixie

205-409-6333

Check us out online at www.freemanchiropracticandwellness.com Now Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield!

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CRAFT BEER | WINE | BARCADE | GROWLERS

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DEC 21 + JAN 4

17

Monday – $5 Bud Light Pitchers Tuesday – Free Poker Tournament Wednesday – $3 Pint Night @7 p.m.

Thursday – Live Team Trivia and beer specials @8 p.m.

Sunday – Free Poker Tournament @2:30 p.m.

DOWNTOWN TUSCALOOSA 205.366.0913

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DEC 21 + JAN 4

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

willhagans.com

willhagans

>>> ROAD TRIP | S O U T H E A S T E R N CO N C E R T S A N D E V E N T S

BIRMINGHAM n Friday, Dec 23 The Alabama Theatre//A Christmas Carol

n Wednesday, Dec 28 Lyric Theatre//An Evening with Gillian Welch in Birmingham n Thursday , Dec 29 The Alabama Theatre//St. Paul and the Broken Bones Iron City//Black Jacket Symphony presents: Led Zepplin n Saturday, Dec 31 Legacy Arena at the BJCC// Bassnectar Lyric Theatre//Anderson East & Dyland Leblanc n Friday, Jan 6 Iron City//Jamey Johnson

n Saturday, Jan 7 Legacy Arena at the BJCC//Monster Jam Triple Threat Series Legacy Arena at the BJCC//Alabama Symphony Orchestra: Boyz II Men n Sunday, Jan 8

Lyric Theatre//Kathleen Madigan

n Saturday, Jan 14 Legacy Arena at the BJCC//WWE: Live n Thursday, Jan 19 Legacy Arena at the BJCC//Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

NASHVILLE

n Tuesday, Dec 27 Ryman Auditorium//Gillian Welch

n Wednesday, Dec 28 Ryman Auditorium//Robert Earl Keen

n Tuesday, Jan 17 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill// Jason Aldean

n Saturday, Dec 31 Ryman Auditorium//Old Crow Midicine Show Marathon Music Works//Cherub Grand Ole Opry House//Jason Isbell, John Prine Bridgestone Arena Lexus Lounge Access//Widespread Panic

n Tuesday, Dec 27 Fabulous Fox Theatre//R. Kelly Savoy Bar and Grill//Erica Dawson Exclusive

n Thursday, Dec 29 Ryman Auditorium//Widespread Panic

n Friday, Jan 6 Schermerhorn Symphony Center// Nashville Symphony Mercy Lounge//Appetite for Destruction City Winery Nashville//Dwele

n Saturday, Jan 7 Bridgestone Arena//Monster Jam Schermerhorn Symphony Center// Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone n Monday, Jan 9 Ryman Auditorium//Million Dollar Show n Tuesday, Jan 10 Nashville Municipal Auditorium// Musiq Soulchild

n Friday, Jan 13 Schermerhorn Symphony Center// The Planets n Saturday, Jan 14 Marathon Music Works//Greensky Bluegrass n Sunday, Jan 15 Bridgestone Arena//The Harlem Globetrotters 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill// Elizabeth Cook

Waka Flaka Flame//Dec 29

ATLANTA

n Thursday, Dec 29 Center Stage//Waka Flocka Flame Terminal West//Perpetual Groove Cariety Playhouse//Gillian Welch n Friday, Dec 30 Center Stage//Drivin N Cryin Tabernacle//The Disco Biscuits The Buckhead Theatre//JJ Grey & Mofro

St. Paul and the Broken Bones//Dec. 29

n Saturday, Dec 31 Hyatt Regency Atlanta//New Year’s Eve Party Terminal West//Perpetual Groove Atlanta Coliseum//Audiosonic NYE n Wenesday, Jan 4 Terminal West//Indigo Girls

n Sunday, Jan 7 The Buckhead Theatre//Kathleen Madigan n Tuesday, Jan 10 Tabernacle//Lukas Graham

Widespread Panic// Dec.31

n Thursday, Jan 12 Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre// Shen Yun Atlanta n Friday, Jan 13 Tabernacle//Umphreys McGee n Sunday, Jan 15 Tabernacle//Umphreys McGee

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

Acoustic Café 2758 County Hwy 9 205.647.3237

Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St NE 404.881.2100

Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St 334.481.5100

Von Braun Center 700 Monroe St SW 256.551.2345

Amphitheater at the Wharf 23101 Canal Rd 251.224.1020

The Hangout 251.948.3030 thehangout1.com

The Nick 2514 10th Ave S 205.252.3831

WorkPlay 500 23rd St S 205.380.4082

Bridgestone Arena 501 Broadway 615.770.2000

Marathon Music Works 1402 Clinton St 615.891.1781

Sloss Furnaces 20 32nd St N 205.324.1911

Zydeco 2001 15th Ave S 205.933.1032

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

DEC 21 + JAN 4

19

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

Across 1. Picked things 5. Made a selection 10. N.Y. restaurant co-owned by Robert De Niro 14. Pin holder 15. "Star Trek" actor Leonard 16. Oil price-setting grp.

17. Do what is expected 19. Purina competitor 20. Coming forth 21. Did nothing 22. Ms. Barbeau 26. Awaiting a pitch 30. By its very nature 34. Trademarked SeaWorld name 35. Secure, as a ship 36. Oohs and ___ 37. Cadaver 39. "Lawrence of ___" 42. Spanish bear 43. Journals 47. Taking advantage of 48. Chattanooga's state 51. Slightly burn 52. Soldier's shoulder pieces 54. Green stuff 57. Kind of fishing 62. Snuffs out 63. Chinese restaurant utensils 66. Chianti, e.g.

67. Get a move on 68. Tic ____ (breath mints) 69. British prep school 70. Portable players 71. Egyptian deity

SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMANIA CROSSWORD ON PAGE 21

20

DEC 21 + JAN 4

Down 1. ____ pot (sinus-cleaning apparatus) 2. Skater Midori, et al.

3. Calendar col.

4. Part of LASIK 5. Ceaselessly 6. Word used by many John Wayne impersonators 7. "That's more than I need to hear!"

8. Unit of time 9. Color changer 10. "I'm clueless" 11. October's birthstone 12. "It's Gonna ____" (*NSYNC hit) 13. Golden St. campus 18. Short break in activity 21. Vague baseball pos.

23. Stock mkt. offering 24. That, in Spain 25. Ephron or Roberts 26. Old-fashioned tie 27. "Good things come to ___ who wait" 28. Powerful financier 29. Increase, with "up" 31. Cruiser's quarters 32. Single entity 33. Missouri river or Indian 38. "Born Free" star 40. Apple or potato 41. "___ see it..."

44. The Buckeyes' sch.

45. Styling stuff 46. Pea or bean feature 49. Wrestling hold 50. Eco-friendly org.

53. Tries out 54. Affect emotionally 55. "Never heard ___" 56. "That's ___ concern to you" 58. Pocket bread 59. Con 60. Kitchen brand 61. Grp. 63. CBS forensic drama 64. Golf equalizer (abbr.)

65. Letter writer's hugs

>>> 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

WRITERS WANTED

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>>> HOROSCOPES | W E E K L Y O V E R V I E W Your social sector will be stirred to action from December 19, and you could be much busier than you have been with key events and holiday occasions. You could hold a big party or charity fundraiser, and with your organizational skills it's likely to go very well. As Mercury turns retrograde this week, be careful about signing anything that commits you for the long term. It might be better to wait until Mercury forges ahead again, on January 8.

The stirring energies of Mars will influence your sector of career and ambition from December 19. With the holiday week coming up, this is a good time to zero in on key goals and firm up your resolve to succeed in 2017. Your personal planet Mercury rewinds this week, so it pays to be careful with financial matters. Christmas Day looks like fun, as do the days ahead in general. Relax and unwind, but be ready for changes that could revolutionize your life.

With your career planet Mars entering your sector of travel and exploration, you may feel moved to take a class that helps you on your journey to success. Mercury's retrograde phase, starting this week, suggests not taking others at their word. They may mean well, but do your own fact checking before you sign anything.

Christmas Day should be a very upbeat, homey occasion that you'll very much enjoy, bonding you closely with family and friends.

With a powerful focus on your sector of transformation and shared finances, a deeper pulse could influence your thinking and emotions. You may realize how certain patterns have kept you from achieving as much as you'd like, and this could encourage you to gently let them go. The Sun's move into your lifestyle sector could make you determined to eat more healthfully even though this week will likely be a time of indulgence. Wait until the December 28 New Moon to start.

With your personal planet Mercury retrograde from December 19, the next three weeks could bring delays, but they could also see you finding answers to issues that have been problematic recently.

Mars also enters your relationship sector, which could encourage negotiation and bring an opportunity to clear the air. As the Sun spends this holiday week in your leisure sector, this period looks very pleasant and enjoyable for all involved. You'll have some big ideas in mind!

This holiday week should be a very upbeat and positive time for you. As well as celebrating with friends and family, there are other interesting possibilities showing up. In particular, you may be thinking about forming a partnership with someone, something that could prove very good for both of you. Don't be tempted to rush into anything, though, as a patient approach is best if you're looking for the venture to be solid over the long term.

Mercury's retrograde phase may not be very welcome during this holiday week, but it could bring some interesting happenings into the mix, as well as a few delays. A missed appointment or detour could result in a lucky encounter that changes your fortunes in some way. Family celebrations look very special this year, as Venus aligns with Jupiter on December 25. There is also a progressive backdrop that could see you ready to change your job or career.

This holiday week may not work out as you envisioned, but it can still be a highly entertaining time. If you're offered an opportunity to go to someone else's place for a celebratory meal, you might just do that. With Mars moving into your domestic sector and the sign of Pisces, you may feel like kicking back and taking time out for yourself. This can bring an opportunity to mull over an idea that inspires you greatly.

You may feel energized and ready for action as the Sun enters your sign this week. Be prepared for a few changes to your holiday arrangements, as things could shift at the last minute. However, what happens as a result could be equally upbeat, if not more so.

Social plans should keep you busy with guests and events as well as networking and mingling. With Mercury retrograde in your sign, it would be wise not to rush into anything until after January 8.

The Sun enters a quieter, more secluded sector of your chart just as this holiday week gets underway. It signals a time of year when you might prefer to take time to reflect on your priorities. Don't deny yourself this opportunity, as there are influences around that encourage progressive and constructive change. You may want to think about how this applies to you and how it might revolutionize your life. The holiday weekend looks very upbeat, certainly something you will enjoy.

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The stirring energies of Mars in your sign reanimate and reinvigorate your dreams and desires. There's a very interactive ambience as the Sun enters your social sector. When it comes to holiday occasions, you may be the one organizing it all and making sure everyone is happy. But with Mercury retrograde, don't be surprised if one or two friends can't make it or if last-minute adjustments change your plans. Even so, you may have your mind set on more ambitious projects.

Your personal planet Mars enters Pisces and a more secluded sector of your chart, so your focus could turn inward. Perhaps this isn't such a bad thing. With some crucial aspects showing up that encourage positive change in your life, stepping back can allow you to make the most of this, especially if you use this time to consider your priorities.

Mercury turns retrograde on December 19, so avoid committing to legal issues or anything that involves a lot of money.

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>>> C O M M U N I T Y A R T S | HISTORY

THE HISTORY OF NEW YEAR'S // TRADITIONS

C

ivilizations around the world have been celebrating the start of each new year for at least four millennia. Today, most New Year’s festivities begin on December 31 (New Year’s Eve), the last day of the Gregorian calendar, and continue into the early hours of January 1 (New Year’s Day).

Common traditions include attending parties, eating special New Year’s foods, making resolutions for the new year and watching fireworks displays.

Early New Year’s Celebrations The earliest recorded festivities in honor of a new year’s arrival date back some 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. For the Babylonians, the first new moon following the vernal equinox—the day in late March with an equal amount of sunlight and darkness— heralded the start of a new year. They marked the occasion with a massive religious festival called Akitu (derived from the Sumerian word for barley, which was cut in the spring) that involved a different ritual on each of its 11 days. In addition to the new year, Atiku celebrated the mythical victory of the Babylonian sky god Marduk over the evil sea goddess Tiamat and served an important political purpose: It was during this time that a new king was crowned or that the current ruler’s divine mandate was symbolically renewed.

Did You Know?

In order to realign the Roman calendar with the sun, Julius Caesar had to add 90 extra days to the year 46 B.C. when he introduced his new Julian calendar. Throughout antiquity, civilizations around the world developed increasingly sophisticated calendars, typically pinning the first day of the year to an agricultural or astronomical event. In Egypt, for instance, the year began with the annual flooding of the Nile, which coincided with the rising of the star Sirius. The first day of the Chinese new year, meanwhile, occurred with the second new moon after the winter solstice.

January 1 Becomes New Year’s Day The early Roman calendar consisted of 10 months and 304 days, with each new year beginning at the vernal equinox; according to tradition, it was created by Romulus, the founder of Rome, in the eighth century B.C. A later king, Numa Pompilius, is credited with adding the months of Januarius and Februarius. Over the centuries, the calendar fell out of sync with the sun, and in 46 B.C. the emperor Julius Caesar decided to solve the problem by consulting with the most prominent astronomers and mathematicians of his time. He introduced the Julian calendar, which closely resembles the more modern Gregorian calendar that most countries around the world use today.

As part of his reform, Caesar instituted January 1 as the first day of the year, partly to honor the month’s namesake: Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, whose two faces allowed him to look back into the past and forward into the future. Romans celebrated by offering sacrifices to Janus, exchanging gifts with one another, decorating their homes with laurel branches and attending raucous parties. In medieval Europe, Christian leaders temporarily replaced January 1 as the first of the year with days carrying more religious significance, such as December 25 (the anniversary of Jesus’ birth) and March 25 (the Feast of the Annunciation); Pope Gregory XIII reestablished

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January 1 as New Year’s Day in 1582.

New Year’s Traditions In many countries, New Year’s celebrations begin on the evening of December 31—New Year’s Eve—and continue into the early hours of January 1. Revelers often enjoy meals and snacks thought to bestow good luck for the coming year. In Spain and several other Spanish-speaking countries, people bolt down a dozen grapes-symbolizing their hopes for the months ahead-right before midnight. In many parts of the world, traditional New Year’s dishes feature legumes, which are thought to resemble coins and herald future financial success; examples include lentils in Italy and black-eyed peas in the southern United States.

Because pigs represent progress and prosperity in some cultures, pork appears on the New Year’s Eve table in Cuba, Austria, Hungary, Portugal and other countries. Ring-shaped cakes and pastries, a sign that the year has come full circle, round out the feast in the Netherlands, Mexico, Greece and elsewhere.

In Sweden and Norway, meanwhile, rice pudding with an almond hidden inside is served on New Year’s Eve; it is said that whoever finds the nut can expect 12 months of good fortune.

taken place almost every year since 1907. Over time, the ball itself has ballooned from a 700-pound ironand-wood orb to a brightly patterned sphere 12 feet in diameter and weighing in at nearly 12,000 pounds.

Various towns and cities across America have developed their own versions of the Times Square ritual, organizing public drops of items ranging from pickles (Dillsburg, Pennsylvania) to possums (Tallapoosa, Georgia) at midnight on New Year’s Eve.

Other customs that are common worldwide include watching fireworks and singing songs to welcome the new year, including the ever-popular “Auld Lang Syne” in many English-speaking countries. The practice of making resolutions for the new year is thought to have first caught on among the ancient Babylonians, who made promises in order to earn the favor of the gods and start the year off on the right foot. (They would reportedly vow to pay off debts and return borrowed farm equipment.)

In the United States, the most iconic New Year’s tradition is the dropping of a giant ball in New York City’s Times Square at the stroke of midnight. Millions of people around the world watch the event, which has

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

BAMA IS ROLLING THROUGH THE BAYOU

O

nce upon a time, Alabama could not get a top prospect out of Louisiana. But nowadays the Tide is rolling through the Bayou State and scooping up just about every top prospect it wants.

Landing commitments from Bradenton-IMG Academy, FL star and Baton Rouge native Dylan Moses got the ball rolling in this class. A short time later, Bama plucked another of the nation's elite linebackers from Baton Rouge when Southern Lab standout Chris Allen committed just days after Ed Orgeron was named LSU's full-time head coach.

The latest Tide coup in Louisiana came last week when Bama closed the deal on Ruston, LA native/Mississippi Gulf Coast CC defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs. According to a tweet from Buggs, the nation's top JUCO DL, he inked the paperwork with Alabama last Wednesday. He will enroll in school for the spring.

Some might consider Buggs to Bama a surprise. But it wasn't a surprise at all. When LSU fired Les Miles early this season, it cracked the door for other schools. When Orgeron recently fired the assistant coach, Bradley Dale Peveto, who had recruited Buggs the past few years, the door was opened wide.

For Bama, defensive line coach Karl Dunbar had made a big impression on Buggs and his family. When Buggs visited Tuscaloosa recently... it was over.

It doesn't look like Bama is done gutting Louisiana. Keep an eye on Amite, LA wide receiver DeVonta Smith. He could be the next Bayou star to roll with the Tide. Star defensive lineman Phidarian Mathis of Monroe-Neville is another one to watch.

SABAN HIRES SARKISIAN Courtesy UA Media Relations University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban announced the hiring of Steve Sarkisian on Friday. Sarkisian will serve as Alabama's offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

"We are pleased to be able to hire an offensive coordinator with the pedigree and experience of Steve Sarkisian," Saban said. "He has a tremendous offensive mind and is someone we believe will do a great job of teaching and developing our football team on the offensive side of the ball. He has been a great asset to our coaching staff this season and brings a great deal of energy and enthusiasm to his job. Steve will be a phenomenal addition to our coaching staff and someone who can

seamlessly transition into the job with a full understanding of how our organization works."

efficiency, third down conversions and scoring offense.

Sarkisian spent the 2016 season on the Crimson Tide's staff as an analyst. Prior to that he served as the head coach at the University of Southern California from 2014-15 and the head coach at the University of Washington from 2009-13.

At Washington, Sarkisian inherited a program in 2009 that had won just 12 games during the previous five seasons, including going winless the year before he took over. Despite that challenge, he guided the Huskies to bowl games his last four seasons. His eight victories in 2013 were the most at UW since 2000. His overall Washington record was 34-29.

"I am humbled and honored to have the opportunity to join Coach Saban's staff, and I can't thank The University of Alabama enough," Sarkisian said. "I have always admired the Alabama program from afar and getting to be part of this football team these past few months has only reinforced my belief that this is the best college football organization in the country.

There are many outstanding coaches and athletes at The University of Alabama, and I am extremely excited to start working with them in my new role. This is a very special place to have the opportunity to coach when you consider the program's rich tradition and the unrivaled passion of the fan base."

During his time as head coach at Southern California, Sarkisian led the Trojans to a 12-6 overall record including a second-place finish in the Pac-12's Southern Division in 2014. His 2014 offense at USC ranked in the top 25 nationally in passing offense, passing

Sarkisian arrived at Southern California in 2001 and took over as the quarterbacks coach in 2002, where he tutored quarterback Carson Palmer to the Heisman Trophy and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 NFL Draft. After spending the 2004 season as the quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders, Sarkisian returned to the Trojan staff in February of 2005 as the assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach for four seasons (2005-08). He added the offensive coordinator role to his duties in 2007 and 2008 at USC. He has two daughters, Ashley and Taylor, and a son, Brady.

All such employment contracts are subject to approval by The University of Alabama Board of Trustees.

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