PLANET WEEKLY 535

// IN THIS ISSUE >> UP-TO-DATE RESTAURANT LISTINGS ›› FASHIONABLY LATE ›› SEETHER ›› COMMUNITY ARTS ›› EVENTS ›› ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

1

2

MAY 3 + MAY 17

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

4 >>> www.theplanetweekly.com

inside

5

>>> planetweeklyissue535

BE SURE TO VISIT OUR NEW DYNAMIC WEBSITE

ENTERTAINMENT 5 CHAMBER NEWS 6 BOOK REVIEW

PUBLISHER

L I N DA W. J OHN S ON

MANAGING EDITOR

W I L L I AM BA R S HOP

GRAPHIC DESIGNER EVE TEMONIA

EVENTS

C H A S E DY E R

ROAD TRIP

T R E Y B R OOK S

RESTAURANT GUIDE DOC FRANKENSTEIN

PRODUCTION EVE TEMONIA

IMAGES

Images: Creative Common License unless otherwise credited.

ADVERTISING MA R T Y R OBERSON 205.523.4 668

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

Planet Weekly is published every other Thursday. No part of this publication including editorials may be reproduced, in whole or part, by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the Publisher’s prior expressed written consent. One copy of each issue of THE PLANET WEEKLY is free to each of our readers. Any reader who takes more than four copies without expressed permission of the publisher shall be deemed to have committed theft. The views and opinions of the authors of articles appearing in this publication may not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Publisher.

22 STORIES

10 IN THE KITCHEN

RESTAURANT GUIDE

14 PET PLANET

4 SEETHER // ALAN SCULLEY

“He (Lowery) is going to bring a whole different energy and a whole different level of enthusiasm, I think. He’s just such a positive guy,” Morgan said. “I think overall we are really excited to be touring. I think we’re really excited to play this new music and get out there.”

6 THEATRE TUSCALOOSA CHILDREN'S CAMP //

THEATRE TUSCALOOSA

“We are once again looking forward to this annual tradition,” said Theatre Tuscaloosa Managing Director Adam Miller. “Working hand-in-hand with Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre is a wonderful way for us to accomplish our educational mission. We see this camp as an investment in the future talent of our community.”

7 LAURYN HILL // REGGIE ALLEN

“Ms. Lauryn Hill is known for two things: being a lyrical genius and showing up late to her shows. Despite the latter, the former Fugees members can still amass a crowd hoping to hear the voice that won 5 Grammys. But even Music’s Biggest Night isn’t exempt from Hill’s tendency to show up late or, in that case, not show up at all.”

22 COMMUNITY ARTS // REGINALD ALLEN Film Series, Exhibits and more.

9 BEER/WINE REVIEWS

15 MOVIE REVIEWS 16 EVENTS 19 DECEMEBER ART NIGHT 20 PUZZLEMANIA / EDITORIAL CARTOON 21 HOROSCOPE

HIGH TIDE SPORTS 23

SABAN WEEKLY PRESS CONFERENCE GARY HARRIS

under the cover >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

MAY 3 + MAY 17

3

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

SEETHER // POISON THE PARISH

S

haun Morgan, frontman of Seether, sounds more content, enthused – and maybe even self-assured -- than at any time since the early years of his group’s 15-year recording history. He said as much in a mid-April phone interview.

“The whole thing is I was in a really bad place for about 10 years, and I came out of that about a year and a half ago, closing in on two years,” the singer/guitarist said. “So I’m in a different space, headspace, as a person and I’m in a different headspace just as a human being in general, and as a musician and as the guy that runs this whole show.”

Morgan didn’t delve into the sources of his problems – although a few difficult events are public knowledge, including the suicide of his brother, his breakup with Evanescence singer Amy Lee, a stint in alcohol rehab in 2006 and some inner-band and music industry disagreements.

Morgan said there was no specific thing that got him out of his doldrums.

“You know, you just wake up one day and decide enough is enough,” Morgan said. “And it’s as simple as that. It’s about wanting to make a change, and that’s kind of what I did.”

Morgan’s improved outlook is worth noting because it had direct effects on “Poison The Parish,” the new Seether studio album that will be released on May 12.

It allowed Morgan to be more focused in his songwriting, gave him the clarity to know the type of music he wanted to create and to feel comfortable with taking the helm for the first time as producer on the new album.

“I wanted to produce the album because I felt I had learned enough from the four producers we had used in the past, learned from one in particular, Brendan O’Brien, on all the things that I wanted to do.

And then I learned from the other guys what sort of things I didn’t want to do,” Morgan said. “That’s in no way meant to sound arrogant or conceited. It was just that I had learned enough.

“Really all I needed was a good engineer to help make them (the songs) sound great. And I enlisted Matt Hyde,” he said. “He’s a great engineer. So I knew with him I could

4

MAY 3 + MAY 17

get the sounds that I wanted. And we did, we went to Blackbird Studio in Nashville and we tracked the drums in a couple of days and we did the rest of it, most the guitars, in about two weeks. The whole process was about a 16- or 17-day process for the whole album to be done.”

Morgan also took the reins on songwriting for “Poison The Parish.” That’s not an earth-shaking revelation, since he’s always been Seether’s primary songwriter. But there have been times (especially on the 2011 album “Holding Onto Strings Better Left to Fray”) when Morgan invited songwriting collaboration from his bandmates.

But this time he felt he needed to keep the songwriting to himself.

“I had far more focus on everything I was doing,” Morgan said. “So as I was writing, I really wrote specific parts on drums and bass and guitars and vocals. All of it was carefully thought out. It wasn’t just sort of bang some things together…and hope for the best. It was a ninemonth process from the first note being written of the demo to the last note of the demo. Because of that, there was a lot more time for me to get it to be just the way I wanted. I mean, I sat in my house and I spent months and months and months and months in a darkened room writing music.”

What Morgan also knew well before he got to the studio with the other members of Seether – bassist Dale Stewart and drummer John Humphrey – was that he wanted to make an album that would be loud, rock hard and capture the sound he’d always envisioned for Seether, but had not quite realized on the band’s five previous studio albums.

“I had found with the past few albums (I was) quite frustrated with the mixes and with the way we had been portrayed on the sonic side of it,” Morgan said. “I didn’t feel like we’d actually ever really been able to make an album that was really, truly guitar heavy, that got that the rock heaviness of our band. And I also wanted it to be a little bit more chaotic.

“I think it’s really exciting stuff and I think it’s the best thing we’ve ever done,” he said of “Poison The Parish.” “And I certainly think it’s the best sounding album we’ve ever created because of the fact that it completely represents who we are as a band.”

While the melodic sensibilities that have helped make Seether’s albums accessible is still present, “Poison The Parish” delivers more of a sonic wallop, especially on songs like “Something Else,” “Stoke The Fire” and “Saviours,” which come with thundering drums, thick guitars and plenty of intense energy. The songs that dial back on the tempo are still plenty taut.

If the process of making “Poison The Parish” was overwhelmingly positive, the same can’t be said for the lyrics on the album, some of which take sharp aim at the rise of the celebrity culture in the internet age. Morgan didn’t hold back in expressing his extreme dislike about the situation.

“The ‘Poison The Parish’ title comes basically from my view that the preachers of society these days are the Kardashians and the real housewives of this and that and ’16 and Pregnant’ and all of that crap,” Morgan said. “I think that they preach to the youth that it’s OK to be like that and it’s OK to be a vapid contribute-nothing-to-society celebrity, and that’s basically where it started…A lot of the lyrics are about that.

“This whole thing is just screwed up,” he said. “It’s been boiling under my skin for years and years and years, with the reality TV phenomenon and the fact that we take a bunch of idiots and put them on TV and then idolize them and give them a ton of money.

And they have nothing to offer society. They have nothing to give back to people. There’s no legacy

they’re leaving behind.”

Morgan hopes Seether has proven its worth by making music throughout its career that’s been honest and has had lyrical substance. Certainly, the group’s music has spoken to a sizable audience.

Beginning with the 2002 debut album, “Disclaimer,” Seether has been one of the most consistent hit-making acts in hard rock. That debut got the ball rolling with three top 15 rock hits before a reworked version of the song “Broken” with Evanescence’s Lee (Morgan’s girlfriend at the time) adding vocals, broke Seether into mainstream.

Another dozen-plus rock charts singles have followed (including the chart toppers “Remedy,” “Fake It,” “Rise Above This,” “Country Song,” “Tonight,” “Words as Weapons” and a multi-format hit cover of Wham!’s “Careless Whisper”).

Seether is doing its part to make sure “Poison The Parish” becomes another successful album, with a full five months of concerts already booked. The shows, Morgan said, will feature improved visual production and a notable addition to the touring lineup – guitarist Clint Lowery of Sevendust.

“He (Lowery) is going to bring a whole different energy and a whole different level of enthusiasm, I think. He’s just such a positive guy,” Morgan said. “I think overall we are really excited to be touring. I think we’re really excited to play this new music and get out there.”

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

>>> 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 NEW CAREER TRAINING CENTER OPENS IN BROOKWOOD PRIMARY FOCUS TO FILL 2,500 EXPECTED AUTOMOTIVE POSITIONS The Brookwood Career Center opened its doors to the public May 1, offering a number of exciting options to job seekers across West Alabama. The “pop-up” center, located at 15706 Highway 216 across from the Brookwood Town Hall, is funded from more than $1.5 million in Appalachian Regional Commission grants and is part of an initiative that will deliver a range of job training services that will fill acute workforce needs in automotive and other manufacturing industries in the area.

The center will host the Career Connect system, which matches applicants with either training or employment opportunities, and provides case management. One of the focuses will be to aid displaced coal workers and their families by preparing them for new job opportunities in fields that are in critical need of workers, such as the automotive industry, which will require 2,500 workers next year to fill new positions. Other industries with worker shortages include healthcare and hospitality, and the center will ready applicants to fill those positions, as well.

“The center will help prepare individuals for both new and existing job opportunities in healthcare, hospitality and manufacturing,” said Gary Nichols, Chairman of the West Alabama Works Steering Committee. “We’re here to generate meaningful results.”

Secretary of Labor Fitzgerald Washington stressed the importance of having a center to focus on training, even when unemployment is low. “Last month, our state unemployment rate dipped four-tenths of a percent, and those numbers are positive,” he said. “But what isn’t so positive is that 128,000 people didn’t have a job. The question becomes – how many of those people did not have the skills necessary to get the job that they applied for?”

The pop-up project is part of West Alabama Works 2020 Initiative, which also includes completion of the Brookwood Technical High School.

Anyone interested in registering with the Career Connect System or finding out more can visit the Brookwood Career Center at 15706 Highway 216 in Brookwood, or visit www. westalabamaworks.com.

The Brookwood Career Center official ribbon cutting with state and local officials was held May 1

West Alabama Works Chairman Gary Nichols talks with Alabama Secretary of Labor Fitzgerald Washington at the Brookwood Career Center Opening.

Senator Gerald Allen looks on as Alabama Secretary of Labor Fitzgerald Washington speaks at a press conference at the Brookwood Career Center.

SPRING BREAKFAST & BIZ HOSTED BY CAPSTONE BANK Chamber members networked and enjoyed breakfast at the downtown branch of Capstone Bank, the April host for the popular early morning business event. The Breakfast & Biz networking event is held on a quarterly basis, with the next event scheduled in July.

The evening networking event, Business After Hours, is held monthly. For a full listing of the Chamber’s networking events, visit www.tuscaloosachamber.com, or subscribe to Member News Weekly by texting CHAMBERTUSC to 22828.

Stillman College President Dr. Cynthia Warrick meets fellow Chamber members at Breakfast & Biz at Capstone Bank, April 25.

CHAMBER WELCOMES RURAL OUTREACH COORDINATOR The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama welcomes Audrey S. Vaughn as the Rural Outreach Coordinator for West Alabama Works.

Audrey S. Vaughn is owner of Porter Daniel, LLC, a niche consultative services company started in 2014. Audrey began her company after her long anticipated early retirement from Alabama Power Company after over 33 years of service. Audrey has had successful careers in government service as well as corporate America. Prior to corporate America, Audrey started professional work with the US government at the Social Security Administration adjudicating benefit claims. During her career with Alabama Power Company, her career spanned numerous functional areas and geographical regions as well as Washington, D.C. Those areas included external affairs, governmental relations, human resources, financial planning and budgeting, marketing, customer service operations, community relations, economic development, supplier diversity, and supply chain management. Post retirement, Audrey has remained involved in civic, public service and professional organizations and charitable events.

Porter Daniel, LLC provides professional consultative services in the areas reflective of Audrey’s vast experiences and extensive people network.

A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Audrey grew up as the youngest of 11 siblings. She attended public school in Birmingham, furthering her education at Miles College and UAB, receiving a double major Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing and Management, an MBA from Samford University and advanced certifications from Harvard University.

Audrey S. Vaughn

She is the mother of two children and grandmother of two. Audrey firmly believes in giving back and that we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. Pay it forward!

One of her favorite motivational mottos is that your attitude determines your altitude.

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

5

>>> F E AT U R E | C H I L D R E N ' S T H E AT R E C A M P

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

THEATRE TUSCALOOSA AND SHOT IN ALABAMA// FRANCES OSBORN TUSCALOOSA CHILDREN’S THEATRE TO OFFER SUMMER THEATRE CAMP Shot in Alabama by Frances Osborn Robb is a visual and textual narrative of Alabama’s photographic history from 1839 to 1941. It describes the phenomenon of photography as practiced in Alabama as a major cultural force, paying close attention to the particular contexts from which each image emerges and the fragments of microhistory that each image documents.

For the sixth consecutive summer, Theatre Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa Children's Theatre (TCT) will partner to present theatre camp. The summer day camp will be Mondays through Fridays, June 19-30, 2017, from 8:15 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Campers will learn acting, dance, music, improvisation, stage makeup, costume design, and audition tips. Camp is offered to students who are completing kindergarten through eleventh grade.

and operates on a first come, first served basis. Early registration is strongly encouraged.

“We are once again looking forward to this annual tradition,” said Theatre Tuscaloosa Managing Director Adam Miller. “Working hand-in-hand with Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre is a wonderful way for us to accomplish our educational mission. We see this camp as an investment in the future talent of our community.”

Camp instructors are seasoned theatre professionals who have demonstrated their talents both on stage and off. This year the camp will welcome a new instructor, Rhonda Wooley. She joins veteran instructors Brent Jones, Lindsey Jones, Merry Livingston, and Jeanette Waterman.

They will share knowledge and experience with campers using fun group exercises and interactive projects.

Campers will be divided into five different age groups and will rotate through four different classes each day. A showcase will be held at the end of camp. The cost of registration is $262 for each camper and includes a camp shirt. Registration is limited to twenty campers per age group

“Instructors for the camp will be a mix of our veteran teachers and some new faces,” said Camp Coordinator Drew Baker.

“I love watching the campers broaden their theatrical knowledge while having an incredibly enjoyable experience with their fellow campers.”

To download the registration form, view class descriptions, and meet the instructors, visit www.theatretusc.com. For more information, contact Camp Coordinator Drew Baker at 205.310.8010 or thebakers35406@att.net.

Presented chronologically—from the very first photograph ever taken in the state to the appearance of cameras as commonplace possessions in mid-twentiethcentury households—Robb draws into sharp relief the eras of daguerreotypes, Civil War photography, photographic portraiture at the end of the nineteenth century, urban and rural photography in the early twentieth century, WPA photography during the Great Depression, postcards and tourist photography, and pre–World War II illustrated books and art photographs.

Robb also examines a wide spectrum of vernacular photography: Alabama-made photographs of everyday people and places, the photographs that fill dresser drawers and shoeboxes, a vast array of unusual images against which Alabama’s more typical iconography can be measured.

She also chronicles the work of hundreds of photographers—black and white, amateur and professional, women and men—some little-known outside their communities, some of them the medium’s most important practitioners. “Who Shot Alabama?” is an accompanying appendix that includes 1,400 photographers by name, working dates, and location—a resource that will help countless individuals, families, and archives identify the specific Alabama photographers whose names appear on family photographs or those in institutional collections.

Shot in Alabama is an insightful document of photography as both a communicator and creator of social, cultural, economic, and visual history. It highlights the very personal worlds rendered by individual photographs as well as the larger panorama of Alabama history as seen through the photographs collectively. A landmark work of research, curation, and scholarship, it fills the void of published history on Alabama photography and is an invaluable resource for historians, archivists, librarians, collectors, hobbyists, and readers with an interest in Alabama history or historic photography. Shot in Alabama is a book that all Alabamians will want on their coffee tables.

Huntsville resident Frances Osborn Robb has spent twenty-five years researching Alabama photographers and photographs while serving as a consultant on the state’s cultural history and historic photography for museums, archives, and libraries. She has curated or advised on many exhibitions, including Made in Alabama: A State Legacy and the award-winning exhibition In View of Home: Alabama Landscape Photographs.

In her search for information and images, she has visited every county in Alabama and roamed as far as Maine and California to study photographs in institutional repositories and family collections.

"Shot in Alabama will prove to be an invaluable resource for historians, archivists, librarians, collectors, hobbyists, and others who may have an interest in Alabama history or historic photography."

—The Montgomery Independent “Shot in Alabama is an extraordinary, first-rate overview of photography in this state, from the introduction of daguerreotypes in 1839 to the beginning of US involvement in World War II, which Robb explains was itself a watershed in Alabama photography.”

—Martin T. Olliff, editor of The Great War in the Heart of Dixie: Alabama during World War I “Frances Robb has always had a meticulous and discerning eye when it comes to looking at photographs. We photographers value this eye in helping us understand the patterns and nuances of our images.

Now everyone can have access to Robb’s marvelous eye within the pages of Shot in Alabama, a first-ever compilation of the evolving, hundred-year span of photography in Alabama. These vernacular images have subtle power equal to that of many of the better-known iconic images of Alabama. This is a stunning collection of images that show how the people of Alabama lived and evolved during their formation as a state and into the early years of World War II. It is beautiful and haunting and at the same time gives new life to a time now past.”

—Chip Cooper, author and photographer of Old Havana: Spirit of the Living City and Campesinos: Inside the Soul of Cuba

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.

6

MAY 3 + MAY 17

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

>>> F E AT U R E | R E G G I E A L L E N

LAURYN HILL // READY OR NOT, HERE SHE EVENTUALLY COMES

M

s. Lauryn Hill is known for two things: being a lyrical genius and showing up late to her shows.

Despite the latter, the former Fugees members can still amass a crowd hoping to hear the voice that won 5 Grammys. But even Music’s Biggest Night isn’t exempt from Hill’s tendency to show up late or, in that case, not show up at all. Originally scheduled to perform with The Weeknd, Hill unofficially won the award for most awkward timing to play hooky.

But to fans, her most notable offense was when the “Ready or Not” singer arrived at an Atlanta concert 2 hours late, performing less than 30 minutes before her microphone was silenced. After receiving backlash, Hill took to the internet, penning a lengthy statement in which she blamed her chronic tardiness on the unalignment of energy.

Hill brought her MLH Caravan: A Diaspora Calling!

Tour to Birmingham, sending fans into a frenzy.

Would she show up late? Would she even show up?

Hours before the show, Iron City Bham confirmed on social media that the Grammy-winning artist made it to her sound check, assuring patrons that the show would go as planned.

Beginning sharply at 8 p.m., Haitian artist Paul Beaubrun served as the opener, entertaining the almost sold-out crowd with a medley of his creoleinspired tracks and covers from Bill Withers, Bob Marley and his father, the late Theodore Beaubrun and Co-founder of the Boukman Eksperyans.

Throughout his set the Haitian performer solicited audience participation, often asking them to either sing along or make certain sounds. Seconds after his set, Beaubrun returned stage. In an obvious attempt

to filibuster, the Grammy-nominated artist and his band performed for an additional 20 minutes.

At 9:30 p.m., Hill’s personal DJ took to the stage, spinning a bevy of old school and modern day hits, including a mix of Kanye West, Future, SWV and a special tribute to the Purple One, Prince. Concluding shortly at 10, members of Hill’s band slowly filled on stage to their respective marks.

At 10:15, Hill sauntered on stage wearing a headwrap and a trench coat-style dress. Grabbing the mic, the veteran artist launched into a volley of “Everything is Everything”, “Forgive them Father” and “Ex-Factor” from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Acting as both the maestro and lead vocalist, Hill often split her attention between the audience and her 12-member band. When leading the band, she would pace across the stage, frantically directing them to align with her energy flow. When facing the crowd, Hill would pour her soul into the mic, belting sweet melodies.

Speeding up the tempos, Hill took to the crowd back to her Fugees days with “Fu-Gee-La”, “Ready or Not” and a very rushed “Killing Me Softly.”

Briefly taking a detour from her tracks, Hill decided to slow things down with powerful renditions of Sade’s “Your Love is King” and “The Sweetest Taboo.”

Transitioning to back her album, the songstress sung the soulful ballad “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” As the countdown to midnight approached, the energy started to slowly expire and Hill closed the show with the smash hit “ Doo Wop ( That Thing).”

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

7

>>> R E S TAU R A N T R E V I E W | T I N S L E Y P H I L L I P S

Photos Courtesy of Sheena Gregg

MAKI FRESH // FRESH & FAST

A

nyone else hate it when you get told “No”? It’s almost like you didn't know how badly you wanted something until you were told you couldn't have it. This week, a friend was in town and said she was craving sushi. I’m never not in the mood for sushi, so we agreed to meet at Rock N Roll. We roll up to the restaurant only to find that it was closed because their refrigeration had been going out due to bad weather. *Shout out to Rock N Roll for being responsible and not trying to feed me risky fish* My friend and I sulked away to try and figure out what else we wanted to eat. We considered a few places nearby (not wanting our awesome downtown parking spot to go to waste) but nothing seemed to be what we were wanting. In a pure stroke of genius, I remembered Maki Fresh. We made the long, arduous drive over the bridge and into Maki Fresh.

Tuscaloosa’s Maki Fresh is a small, efficient restaurant filled with bright colors and lots of seating. They also have a cute patio area if you like your sushi with a side of sunshine.

There was a line when my friend and I arrived, but the Maki employees are very effective and had us up at the front of the line before I’d even had time to consider all my options.

Maki offers a large variety of fast casual Asian dishes. These dishes not only offer some awesome Asian toppings and sauces, but also offer less traditional flavor combinations and veggies that aren’t usually seen in Asian dishes (think salmon, green apple, arugula, goat cheese, and lemon-thyme vinaigrette sushi). Maki serves apps, rice bowls, sushi rolls, sliders, and salads. I decided to play it a little safe and got the Crunch Crunch Roll with white rice and (no surprise here if you read my last

8

MAY 3 + MAY 17

review) the Crispy Brussels. My friend opted for the Hibachi Bowl with brown rice and an order of edamame.

After just a few minutes of waiting, our feast arrived. My Crunch Crunch roll was filled with panko shrimp, avocado, cucumber, and had spicy (but not really) mayo sauce on the side and was just what I was looking for in my sushi roll. Nothing too crazy, but man it was tasty. The shrimp was still warm inside the cool roll and the mayo sauce pulled the dish together. The Crispy Brussels were topped with sesame seeds and a tangy sauce that I can only describe as perfection. If I could have, I’d have left with a bottle of that sauce. My friend’s bowl was topped with steak, edamame, a few sauces, and TONS of fresh veggies. I wasn't expecting that the veggies would be raw but it totally worked with the dish.

The soft steak and rice were perfectly balanced by the crunchy vegetables. What would have made the bowl even better? Some of the sauce from my brussel sprouts.

Both of our portions were relatively large as well. Not quite so big that we immediately thought to make another dinner from them, but just big enough that we hurt a little after trying to eat all the deliciousness in one sitting. In hindsight, I should have practiced what I preach and packed up half of the meal from the get-go.

All in all, we had a great experience at Maki Fresh. We were in and out within 30 minutes, didn't spend an uncomfortable amount, and were able to choose from lots of fresh, flavorsome items. My only regret is not taking advantage of the 2 for $10 special on sushi rolls that Maki

offers on Sundays.

Maki Fresh is located at 1530 McFarland Blvd North. in Tuscaloosa. Tweet us @ThePlanetWeekly and let us know where you are eating!

GET NOTICED ADVERTISE IN PLANET WEEKLY.

To learn more, please email PlanetEditor@yahoo.com

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

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

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

MILL CREEK BREWING COMPANY// WOODSHED INDIA PALE ALE W

ith warm weather fast approaching, my unquenchable desire for easy drinking beers grows even stronger. I’m not one to shy away from a provided macro lager at a party, but sometimes I want something with flavor and more in my wheelhouse. If you’re not familiar with the term session beer, it relates to a brew that’s easy drinking and well, one you could drink multiples of in a drinking session.

You’ll see several styles flaunt the session tag, but the ones I’m usually interested in are the session india pale ales. While everyone is stuck on this New England IPA craze at the moment, and don’t get me wrong because they are damn delicious, I think the real ability and the real talent comes with brewing a low alcohol beer with maximum flavor and basically something I can drink and drink and drink and drink. A brewery that has just begun distribution in Alabama, Mill Creek Brewing Company from Nolensville, TN., has the perfect execution of said beer. Sometimes you’ll get those session IPAs and they’re still pretty heavy and just tongue scorchers that wreck your tongue after a couple, but Mill Creek’s IPA is the perfect balance between malt, hops, and drinkability. Here are my thoughts: As always, I’d like to bring attention to the can the beer is in. If you’re a long time reader, first of all thank you, you know that I’m a design junkie and a fan of overall clean design work.

Mill Creek’s cans are some of the cleanest I’ve seen lately and I just can’t get enough of that white can with a little pop of color, because it’s truly exquisite.

I drank this beer from the can, because hell, I wanted to, but the color is a burnt orange, almost like that bright orange rust you see on things at the flea market. From other pictures I’ve seen, when poured into a glass, the beer has about a finger to a finger and a half width of white head that doesn’t really leave much lacing due to the stunningly low alcohol level.

The first thing you get from this beer is an incredible citrus and piney aroma that draws you in. Something that a lot of session IPAs miss is that essential aroma and it basically goes down hill from there. Luckily, this one is

MEIOMI// ROSE

right on the money and I know this is an IPA from the jump.

When you first taste the beer, you really get a sense of how light the beer actually is. Like other, heavier IPAs, you get a sense of how thick the beer is and you can taste some of the alcohol up front. On the flip side, this beer starts out thin and then allows the flavors to build and build into something that’s a full-bodied IPA that at the same time is light on the tongue and your stomach. Up front is a ton of citrus flavors with a little bit of that nice, danky pine flavor that is quintessential of those classic Northwest India Pale Ales.

The flavor then mellows into a bit more of that citrus flavor that was all over the place in the nose. The beer finishes with a nice hoppy bitterness that reminds you that you are in fact drinking an IPA and as you finish each sip, that same danky, citrus flavor sticks to your tongue and draws you back in.

The mouthfeel is a highlight of this beer for me, because this is really where a session beer passes or fails, and luckily, this one passes with flying colors. Soft and delicate on the tongue, this beer is light and refreshing without losing any of the essential components. The carbonation is light to medium and lends itself to drinking, and with the ABV at 4.5, according to Bo Hicks, the slamability index is very, very high.

All in all, this is a solid beer that I have no problem standing behind and promoting. The only negative I have for this beer is that at the beginning of each sip there is that thinness that is a little too thin for me and seems a little watery. I say that, only to say it recovers brilliantly and makes that watery note last for maybe half of a second, so it’s probably just me trying to find a negative to say on it. Even though this beer doesn’t distinctly utilize the session IPA nametag, to me, this beer is right at the top of that category. Like I said earlier, I have no problems promoting or standing behind this beer. The flavors they’re able to pack into such a small build is nothing short of incredible. I will definitely be purchasing another six-pack and then another and then another. Cheers!

Meiomi Rose comes from Acampo, California, USA and the 2016 vintage is the first time Meiomi has ever released a Rose.

According to the tasting notes, fruit for this wine was sourced from three different counties…48% Sonoma, 43% Monterey and 9% Santa Barbara, with each county said to contribute its own flavor characteristics. The wine was aged in stainless steel and the predominate varietal is Pinot Noir.

Wine Trends As a wine reviewer who receives samples of many different wines, I’m in a good position to see trends. One of the trends I’m seeing is a re-energized emphasis on Rose. Meiomi releasing Rose for the first time is a good example of this trend, in my opinion. I actually started seeing this in 2016 and it’s quite possible it started a year or two prior.

I have a sneaking suspicion that Rose appeals to millennials at this season of their life and that’s what’s driving this trend. Of course, I could be totally wrong. ;-) Anyway, look for more Rose reviews to come as this trend evolves.

Now, back to the review…

Meiomi Rose Review From the bottle: Inspired by coastal maritime influences, Meiomi Rose bursts with vibrant, floral aromas and mouthwatering fruit flavors of strawberry, cranberry and watermelon.

Sample received for review purposes and I was so pleased to be considered to taste an inaugural release from such a well known wine brand! For more, check out the Meiomi website.

I’ve reviewed other Meiomi wines as well, including Meiomi Chardonnay and Meiomi Pinot Noir (one of my most talked about reviews) if you want to check those out.

Appearance In appearance, Meiomi Rose is pale salmon in color and very translucent.

Light shining through leaves a lovely pale pink glow on the table. It’s quite a leggy wine and it coats up the glass nicely when tipped. Legs appear in various sizes and forms and are mostly slow to fall.

Aroma I normally don’t expect a Rose to have much of an aroma, but this wine’s aroma is noticeable from a foot away from the glass.

It’s enjoyable, with notes of fresh watermelon and strawberry. You might find the aroma similar to a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. Meiomi Rose alcohol content 13.2% by volume, per the bottle. There’s no sting of alcohol in the nose.

Taste I tasted this wine slightly chilled.

On the palate, you get chamomile, cranberry and orange zest coupled with a good bit of minerality and acidity.

For some reason, I was expecting sweetness however none was present, which suited me well. I found the taste enjoyable, uncomplicated and easily sippable.

Mouthfeel The wine exhibited a lush mouthfeel with some very mild tannins on the sides of the tongue.

Finish The finish was long lasting and pleasant.

It started out with the orange zest flavors but then slowly gave way to just a bit of bitterness.

Overall Opinion Overall, I enjoyed this off-dry Rose and I think Meiomi is off to a great start with this inaugural vintage. Give this a try if you want to get on Meiomi’s “ground floor” of Rose. And, enjoy it as a nice summer sipper. Meiomi Rose price $19.99.

Suggested Food Pairing Give this one a try with Food and Wine’s recommendation of rosemary flatbread with blue cheese. Actually, I think anything cheesy would pair well with this wine as the acidity might balance out the richness of the cheese. Go for a richer cheese versus a lighter cheese in this case.

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

9

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

SALAD RECIPES FOR SUMMER BARBECUES Salads are a great accompaniment to any summer picnic or barbecue. Everyone has their favorite. I personally love Taco Salad, my daughter's favorite is Pea Salad. Here are some easy salad recipes you can prepare for your family or take to your next family get-together. Keep an open mind about the Broccoli Salad recipe and give it a try. It is delicious!

TACO SALAD 1/2 onion, chopped 3 tomatoes 1 head lettuce 4 oz. cheese, grated 8 oz. Thousand Island dressing Taco Sauce to taste 1 bag tortilla chips 1 lg. avocado, opt.

1 lb. ground beef 1 can kidney beans 1/4 t. salt

BREAKFAST / LUNCH

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

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

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

Historic downtown Northport. Closed weekends.

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

THREE BEAN SALAD 1 can green beans 1 can kidney beans 1 can wax beans 3/4 c. sugar 1/2 c. vinegar 1/2 c. vegetable oil 1/2 tsp. salt

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store 4800 Doris Pate Dr | Exit 76 // 562.8282 www.crackerbarrel.com Holler & Dash 1130 University Blvd A-1, Tuscaloosa//752-3310 Sun-Thur 7am–2pm Fri-Sat 7am–9pm Sun 7am-2pm www.holleranddash.com 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

Drain beans. Heat remaining ingredients in a saucepan until heated through. Pour over beans and refrigerate before serving.

PICNIC COLESLAW 6 c. shredded cabbage 2 c. shredded carrots 8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled 12 green onions, thinly sliced 1/2 c. vinegar 1/3 c. vegetable oil 1/3 c. sugar 1 tsp. salt

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. Mon-Sat 9am–9pm Sun- 10am-3pm

Combine cabbage, carrots, bacon, and onion. In a jar mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and shake well. Just before serving, pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss.

MACARONI SALAD 1 lb. salad macaroni 12 med. green onions, sliced 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped 1 c. thinly sliced celery 12 slices crisply cooked bacon, crumbled 1 c. dill pickles, chopped 1 1/2 c. mayonnaise 1 tbsp. mustard 1 tbsp. horseradish 1 tbsp. dill pickle juice Salt and pepper

Tropical Smoothie Cafe 1800 McFarland Blvd E, | Tuscaloosa// 331-4070 Casual, health-conscious cafe featuring custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.

Mon-Thur 6:30am–9:30pm Fri-7am-9pm Sun-10:30-8pm 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

Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain well. Rinse and drain again. Place macaroni into large bowl. Add onion, eggs, celery, and pickle. Blend together the mayonnaise, horseradish, mustard, and pickle juice. Stir into macaroni mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and chill 4-6 hours.

BROCCOLI SALAD 1 bunch broccoli, cut in tiny flowers 1 c. raisins 1/4 c. red onion 1/4 c. pecans (or walnuts, or sunflower seeds) 1/4 c. bacon bits 1 c. mayonnaise 1/2 c. sugar 1/4 c. vinegar Mix mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar. Add bacon bits and other ingredients and mix. Chill for a few hours.

PEA SALAD 2 bags frozen peas 1 block cheddar cheese (cubed or shredded) 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 bunch green onions 1 pkg. bacon cut into small pieces and fried

FINE DINING

301 Bistro (Was L&N Train Station) 301 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa //764-1395 Casual Dining, Full Bar and Beer Garden Mon-Sat 4–11PM Sun 11am-9pm | www.301bistro.com Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 248.9370 Monday - Thursday 5-10 p.m. and Friday - Saturday 5-11 p.m. Steak, seafood, & sushi specialities. Daily specials: Monday - $20 Bottles of Wine; Tuesday - Ladies Night 1/2 off Domestic Beer and House Wine, Select $5 Martinis, $2 off Select Sushi Rolls for Everyone; Uptown Wednesday - $6 Uptown Shrimp; Featured Cocktails and $20 Bottles of Wine.

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

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

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 River 1650 Jack Warner Pkwy NE, Tuscaloosa//632-3801 Tue,Wed,Thur-11am–2pm, 5:30–9PM Fri-11am–2pm, 5–10pm Sat-10am–1pm, 5–10 Sun-10am–1pm Closed Monday www.rivertuscaloosa.com

JAPANESE

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.

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

Don 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 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop 2321 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa//409-8344 Mon-Thur 10am–10pm Fri-SAt 10am–12am Sun 10am-10pm | www.fuzzystacoshop.com Iguana Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 752.5895

La Fiesta Mexican Grill 6521 AL-69, Tuscaloosa// 345-8580 Mon-Thur 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm Sun 11am-9pm

Los Tarascos (2 locations) 110 Skyland Blvd E - Tuscaloosa//553-8896 NEW LOCATION 3380 McFarland Blvd - Northport//330-0919 www.lostarascos.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.

Taco Mama Tuscaloosa 2104 University Blvd A, Tuscaloosa Mon-Wed 11am–9pm Thur-Sat 11am–10pm Sun 11am–9pm www.tacomamaonline.com

Chuy's 1320 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa// 349-4947 Sun-Thur 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-11pm | www.chuys.com

Los Calientes Mexican Grill 3429 McFarland Blvd E // 553.1558 La Fiesta Mexican Grill 345-8580 6521 AL-69, Tuscaloosa Mon-Thur 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm Sun 11am-9pm

Mix together and refrigerate for 12 hours.

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

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

LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871

FIVE CUP SALAD 1 c. sour cream 1 c. miniature marshmallows 1 c. coconut 1 c. pineapple 1 c. mandarin oranges

Pastor's Kitchen 2910 5th St, Northport//553-2320 Mon-Fri 10:30am-2pm, 4:30–9pm Sat 10:30am-8pm Closed Sun

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

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

Keep peas frozen until ready to use. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Chill and serve.

MAY 3 + MAY 17

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

Cook Out 100 15th St E, Tuscaloosa Fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.

Thur-Fri 11:00am-4:00am Sat-Wed 11:00am-3:00am www.cookout.com

Chop onion, tomatoes, and lettuce. Toss with cheese, dressing and taco sauce. Crunch and add chips. Brown meat, add kidney beans, salt and simmer 10 minutes and mix into cold salad. Serve immediately (or prepare ahead of time and add cheese and chips right before serving).

10

>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

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.

Pokirrito 68 (was Ezell's Southern Food Express) 220 15th St E, Tuscaloosa Sushi Bar

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 Buddy’s Ribs & Steaks

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

>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

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

Chicken Salad Chick The Shoppes at Midtown & Essex Square, Northport | Said to be the very best chicken salad that can be found anywhere. www.chickensaladchick.com 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 Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers//764-9097 315 15th St, Tuscaloosa Fri-Sat 10:30am–11:00pm Sun-Thur 10:30am–10:00pm www.freddysusa.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.

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.

The Kitchen 2322 4th St, Tuscaloosa//331-4731 Tue-Fri 8am–3pm Sat-Sun 9am-9pm Closed Sunday Logan's Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd E // 349.3554 Madear’s 1735 Culver Road // 343.7773 Mon–Fri 6 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 2nd & 3rd Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Miss Dots 1715 University Blvd, Tuscaloos Mon-Sun 11am-9pm | www.lovemissdots.com Mugshots Grill & Bar 511 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 391.0572 Great burgers & sandwiches. Unique setting, full service bar, veggie entrees, kid friendly, and open late www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com Newk’s Express Cafe 205 University Blvd. East // 758.2455 Fax: 758.2470 // www.newkscafe.com 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.

Nothing But Noodles 1320 McFarland Blvd E #530// 349-2900//www.nothingbutnoodles.com Pastas, Salads, Soups, Desserts Fri-Sat 10:30am–10:30pm Sun-Thur 10:30am-9:30pm 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 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 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.

Sweet Home Food Bar www.sweethomefoodbaral.com//764-9346 Mon-Sat 9am–9pm Sun- 10am-3pm Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe 1800 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa// 344-6444 Mon-Sat 11am-9pm Sun 11am-8pm Urban Cookhouse 1490 Northbank Parkway #110, Tuscaloosa// 561-6999 We use the freshest ingredients available with an emphasis on supporting the local farmer Mon-Sun 10am–9pm//www.urbancookhouse.com Zoe’s Kitchen 312 Merchants Walk // 344.4450 A wonderful selection of Greek foods

SPORTS GRILL

Baumhower's Wings of Tuscaloosa 500 Harper Lee Drive | catering-Pick-up Tuscaloosa // 556.5858 | Always fresh and always fun. Owned by former UA/ Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower. Kid Friendly Baumhower's 556-5658 (second location) 4251 Courtney Dr, Tuscaloosa Buffalo Phil’s 1149 University Blvd | The Strip // 758.3318 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar BurgerFi 1320 McFarland Blvd E #510, Tuscaloosa//759-2510

Stylish, eco-minded chain serving grass-fed beef burgers, plus hot dogs, craft beer & wine. Fri-Sat 10:30am-10:00pm Sun-Thur 10:30am-11:00pm order.burgerfi.com/menu/tuscaloosa 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 Mugshots Grill & Bar 511 Greensboro Ave // 391.0572 Great burgers. Full service bar. Open late. www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com Walton's 915 Patriot Pkwy, Tuscaloosa//752-1693 Wings and much more Mon-Sat 9am-10pm Closed Sun waltonstuscaloosa.com Wilhagan’s 2209 4th St | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 366.0913 Wings U 1800 McFarland Blvd East Suite 218 | Pick-up Tuscaloosa // 561.3984 Features the first coal-fired pizza oven in Alabama. Owned by former UA/Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower. Completely open concept! www.wingsu.com WingZone 1241 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 342.2473

BARBEQUE

Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ 4215 Greensboro Ave | Tuscaloosa // 331.4858 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Sun lunch Bama BBQ & Grill 3380 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 333.9816 Dat's Good 4300 AL-13, Northport//333-466 Secializes in Catfish, Hot Wings,and BBQ Tue-Sat 10am-9pm Closed Sun & Mon | www.facebook.com/DatsGoodBBQ 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.

Full Moon BBQ 1434 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa// 366-3555 (sports Grill) Mon-Thur 10am–9pm Fri-Sat 10am–10pm Sun 11am-9pm Hick’s BBQ 4400 Fayette Hwy // 339.3678 // Tues–Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q 469-2060 305 21st Ave, Tuscaloosa Sun-Thur 11am-9pm Fri-Sat 9am-10pm | www.facebook.com/JNNTuscaloosa Hoo's Q 345-6400 101 15th St E, Tuscaloosa Mon-Sun 10am-9pm | www.hoosbbq.com 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 Tee’s Ribs and Thangs 1702 10th Avenue // 366.9974 |11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily

STEAKS

Logan’s Roadhouse 1511 Skyland Blvd | next to Sams // 349.3554 Steaks, ribs and spirits Longhorn Steakhouse 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 345-8244 #412 Nick's In the Sticks 4018 Culver Rd | Tuscaloosa // 758.9316 A long-time Tuscaloosa tradition. Good steaks at a reasonable price Try a Nicodemus if you have a designated driver.

Outback Steakhouse 5001 Oscar Baxter Dr // 759.9000 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 - Tues–Fri. Lunch – 11:00am – 2:00pm; Cock-

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

11

>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

tail 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 Texas Roadhouse 1363 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa// 759-2596 Fri-Sat 11am–11pm Sun-11am-10pm Mon-Thur 3pm-10pm www.texasroadhouse.com

Roly Poly Sandwiches 2300 4th Street | Tuscaloosa // 366.1222 The Pita Pit 1207 University Blvd | The Strip // 345.9606 Hours: Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m. - 3 a.m. | Sun 11:30 a.m. - midnight

SEAFOOD

Pizza 120 50115th St. East | 561.6853

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)

Pyros Fire Fresh Pizza 1320 McFarland Blvd E #270, Tuscaloosa//248-7343 Mon-Fri 10:30am-10pm | www.pyrospizza.com Tut’s Place 1306 University Blvd | The Strip // 759.1004

DELICATESSEN

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

Shrimp Basket 3249 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa//469-9786 Mon-Fri 10:30am–9pm | www.shrimpbasket.com

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

Catfish Heaven 2502 21st St, Tuscaloosa// 752-7222 Mon-Sat 11am-7:30pm Closed Sun

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

Steamers on The Strip 1301 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa//750-0203 Mon-Sat 11am-8pm Sun 11am-5pm | www.steamersonthestrip.net 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

CHINESE

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

Chang’s Chinese Restaurant 1825 McFarland Blvd N // 391.9131 China Fun 2600 University Blvd | Alberta City // 553.2435 Chongwah Express 1425 McFarland Boulevard, Northport. 333-1088 Hot Wok Express 6571 Alabama 69, Tuscaloosa// 758-0148 | Mon-Sat 10:30am–8pm Lee Palace 6521 Highway 69 S // 391.9990 / Open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Mr. Chen's Authentic Chinese Cooking & Oriental Market 514 14th St. | In the Oz Music shopping center // 343.6889 // Open Sun - Thu 11am - 9pm, Fri & Sat 11am - 9:30pm New China Fun 4213 University Blvd E, Tuscaloosa//553-2435 Mon-Thur 11am–9:30pm Fri-Sat 11am–10:30pm Sun 12–9:30PM Panda Express 636 15th St E// 343-6888 Fri-Sat 10:30am-10:00pm Sun-11:00am-9:00pm Mon-Thur 10:30am-9:30pm | www.pandaexpress.com 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.

California Underground 13552 Highway 43, Northport | 339.8660 Chuck E. Cheese's Midtown Village, 500, Tuscaloosa St//979-3420 Mon-Thur 11am-9pm Fri-11am-10pm Sat-9am-10pm Firehouse Subs 1130 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 248.0680 Hungry Howie’s (2 locations) 1105 Southview Ln | South Tuscaloosa // 345.6000 1844 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 333.2633 1211 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa | The Strip // 366.1500 4851 Rice Mine Rd | Northriver/Holt // 345.3737 Lenny’s Sub Shop 220 15th St // 752.7450 // Fax: 752.7481 // www.lennys.com Little Caesars Pizza 1414 10th Ave // 366.2220 | www.littlecaesars.com (Second location) 5980 Old Greensboro Rd, Tuscaloosa// 331-8150 Little Italy 1130 University Blvd. // 345.4354 Marco’s Pizza 1021 McFarland Blvd, Northport// 330-4555 Mon-Thur 11am–10pm Fri-Sat 11am–11pm Sun 3–10PM | http://www.marcos.com Mellow Mushroom

MAY 3 + MAY 17

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

43 Prime Steakhouse 13620 Highway 43 N Northport// 331-5800 Monday-Thursday 4:30-9 Friday-Saturday 11-10 Closed Sunday

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.

12

2230 University Blvd | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 758.0112

Manna Grocery & Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 752.9955 McAlister’s Deli (2 locations) 101 15th St | Tuscaloosa // 758.0039 3021 Tyler Dr | Northport // 330.7940 Sandwiches, salads and spuds www.mcalistersdeli.com Momma Goldberg’s Deli 409 23rd Ave // 345.5501 |www.mommagoldbergs.com Newk's 205 University Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 758.2455 Schlotsky’s Deli 405 15th St. E // 759.1975 // schlotskys.com Which Wich University Blvd.// Downtown Tuscaloosa // Mon – Sat 10:30 – 9 // Sunday 11 – 7 // Fresh ingredients, great sandwiches. 764.1673

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

Krispy Kreme Doughnut 1400 McFarland Blvd // 758.6913 //www.krispykreme.com Starbucks (2 locations) 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 343.2468 1901 13th Ave East | Inside Super Target // 462.1064 | starbucks.com

DESSERTS

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

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

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

Smoothie King (2 locations) 415 15th Street | Tuscaloosa // 349.1721 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//764.9173 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

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

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

13

>>> PET PLANET

INDIA // TABBY CAT

RIO // ONE EYE'D RIO

T

T

his beautiful lady is India, a female adult tabby cat. India has Tortoiseshell colors with a tabby coat pattern. She's gorgeous! She's very sweet and affectionate. She socializes well with other friendly cats.

his little lion is Rio, a 4-year-old male ShihTzu. Rio has a soft, light-brown coat that will need constant grooming to keep in good shape and not get matted.

He is small, weighing 14 pounds. Rio is a special needs dog because he has had both of his eyes removed due to ulcerations. But that sure hasn't stopped this little fearless fellow!

India is negative for FIV and FeLK, is current on vaccinations, is litter box trained, and is spayed. We hope you will bring this little lady into your heart and home!

Here's what the foster Mom has to say: "Rio is just the best! He is getting around like blindness is no big deal. Of course he bumps into things, but it doesn't faze him at all. He is house trained as long as you get him out a couple of times a day. Not chewy or destructive at all. He does like to jump up on furniture to sleep or lie by you. He likes to be with you and know where you are. Rio is great with other dogs, as he pretty much ignores them. I just can't say enough good things about this wonderful dog!"

Rio will require a home with a fenced-in yard. He must be an inside dog. If there are other pets they must be calm, mature ones. If there are children in the household, they must be over 13 years old. Rio is very laid-back with a low energy level. But he would love to go on daily walks and will need some exercise.

He is up-to-date on his vet care, neutered, and is heartworm negative. He is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. This sweet dog has many years ahead of him and will make someone a wonderful companion dog.

GET NOTICED ADVERTISE IN PLANET WEEKLY.

To learn more, please email PlanetEditor@yahoo.com

ISSUE 534

APR 19 + MAY 3

If you are interested in giving RIO or INDIA 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

FREE PLANET WEEKLY IS ALWAYS

// IN THIS ISSUE

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

>> UP-TO-DATE RESTAURANT LISTINGS ›› THEATRE TUSCALOOSA ›› FATE OF THE FURIOUS ›› COMMUNITY ARTS ›› EVENTS ›› ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Turning point domestic violence and sexual assault services center and the Board of Directors are excited to announce the new Executive Committee at its annual meeting. The annual meeting starts at 6:30pm at the First United Methodist Church and features awards, a chance to meet the new committee members and exciting guest speakers on February 27, 2017. A few words of welcome are planned by local officials including, Chief Tommy Reese of Demopolis, Dr. Mallory of Shelton, board members and others. In recognition of Turning Point, the West Alabama areas domestic violence/sexual assault agency, >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

APR 19 + MAY 3

1

Next Issue // May 17

Advertising Deadline: Friday, May 12 205-523-4668//205-792-7239

theplanetweekly.com 14

MAY 3 + MAY 17

issuu.com/planetweekly

is inviting all citizens, social groups and other non-profits to join with them in this annual event to thank them for their continued support.

Our goal is to create a conglomerate displaying the strength gained by joining together. We are asking individuals and various groups and members to join us and continue a commitment to ensure that all lives are lived free of violence and abuse,? said Amy Gundlach-Foster, Executive Director of Turning Point.

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

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

UNFORGETTABLE// PSYCHO-BARBIE, HOMICIDE SAGA

★★★

OU T OF 4

G

als, looking for a ladies’ night out movie? Look no further than “Unforgettable”, a melodramatic but entertaining psychoBarbie, homicide saga. Rosario Dawson and Katherine Heigl co-star as two dames duking it out over one dude. First-time director Denise Di Novi and scenarists Christina Hodson of “Shut In” and David Leslie Johnson of “Orphan” have forged a tense, occasionally erotic, psychologically driven thriller like “Play Misty For Me” (1971), “Fatal Attraction” (1987), “Single White Female” (1992), “Obsessed” (2009), and “When the Bough Breaks” (2016). Sweet and innocent from the start, Rosario Dawson plays Julia Banks, the good girl of the two. She is far more naïve than her troubled past would lead us to believe. Basically, she amounts to a damsel-in-distress fighting for her life against Katherine Heigl’s diabolical, homicidal, divorcee, Tessa Connover. If anything is ‘unforgettable’ about “Unforgettable,” the casting of Katherine Heigl as the blond spawn of Satan qualifies as ‘unforgettable.’ Two years ago, in the amusing, straight to video shock comedy “Home Sweet Hell” (2015), Heigl carved up three villains with power tools and a samurai sword who sought to blackmail her horny, philandering husband. Heigl delivers a tour-de-force performance in “Unforgettable.” Moreover, as a testament to her thespian gifts, she never blinks as she devises several audacious acts of outrage. Heigl fans will savor her sinister performance.

Of course, Heigl won’t land an Oscar nomination for being cast against type, but it reflects another facet of her persona.

“Unforgettable” opens at a Malibu police station. An African-American detective and a uniformed patrol woman amass plenty of incriminating evidence against Julia Banks (Rosario Dawson of “Kids”) for the murder of Michael Vargas (Simon Kassianides of “Quantum of Solace”), her sadistic ex-boyfriend. Earlier, Vargas had been under a restraining order to stay away from her. Julia cannot believe that the authorities may charge her with his murder. She remembers stabbing Vargas in the thigh before she fled in hysteria from her house. During their momentary but violent clash, Vargas slammed Julia’s face into a kitchen cabinet, and she brandished a knife.

Apparently, Vargas labored under the mistaken notion that Julia wanted to resume their relationship where they left off prior to the restraining order. a digital literary magazine. After obtaining a restraining order against

Vargas, Julia met a former Merrill Lynch stockbroker, David Connover (Geoff Stults of “Wedding Crashers”), who has invested everything in a microbrewery. The two plan to marry, and Julia relocates to Malibu where David and his six-old daughter, Lily Connover (newcomer Isabella Kai Rice), reside in serenity. Trouble arises because neither told Tessa Connover (Katherine Heigl of “27 Dresses”) about their plans.

brushing her hair as if she were stropping a razor. When Lily warms up to Julia, Tessa cuts her hair severely and then blames everything on Julia.

Interestingly, Tessa suffered a similar fate as Lily because her own heartless mother, Helen (Cheryl Ladd of “Purple Hearts”), treated Tessa with the same affection that a drill sergeant reserves for recruits. Tessa’s life revolves around a mirror, and Helen still expects her daughter to live up to the mirror.

As it turns out, Tessa Connover stands between Julia and her ex-husband David, and she abhors the idea that another woman will supervise her daughter. Initially, Tessa appears reasonably hospitable when she welcomes Julia. Beneath her false mask of affability, Tessa smolders with incendiary rage. If ever English playwright William Congreve’s oftparaphrased line “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned” applied to a character, it applies to Tessa. Tessa is a fiend. Tall, statuesque, her blond hair parted down the middle and draping like shorn curtains at her shoulders, Tessa is a model of physical perfection in outfits that fit her like a sheathe. She resembles a trophy wife, but she is an overbearing witch. She insists on having everything done to her specifications, and Julia can do nothing right, particularly with her impressionable daughter. Not long after the two women encounter each other, things sour between them. admits to Julia that she destroyed her own marriage when she cheated on David. Now, David has custody of Lily, but the court has allotted Tessa a couple of days each week with Lily. Tessa treats Lily like a captive,

Although she has lost David, Tessa won’t admit to herself the marriage couldn’t be salvaged. She launches a campaign against Julia that takes on the magnitude of a full-scale war.

First, she steals Julia’s cell phone, imports the information to her own computer, and sets up a Facebook

pal for Julia. Julia represents one of the few people alive today without a Facebook page, and she never realizes the extent to which Tessa invades her privacy. Tessa conducts a background check on Julia, and she learns about the restraining order against Michael. After she creates Julia’s Facebook page, Julia arranges a reunion between Julia and Michael.

She impersonates Julia on the phone, so Michael will imagine that Julia has absolved him of all his sins. Meantime, Julia doesn’t have a clue about anything that the nefarious Tessa is plotting behind her back, such as sneaking into David’s house and stealing Julia’s wedding ring that once belonged to David’s grandmother.

Tessa has even managed to make Julia look foolhardy in David’s eyes when Julia loses track of Lily during a community fair.

“Unforgettable” maintains a steady head of steam before it wobbles somewhere during its third halfhour. Di Nova and her writers bring the conflict between Julia and Tessa to boil about an hour into “Unforgettable,” and Julia begins to feel the heat. Nevertheless, the movie boasts a slam-bang finale.

Unquestionably, “Unforgettable” deserves a straight-to-video sequel as Di Nova’s film concludes with such a sizzle. “Unforgettable” ranks as a hybrid chick flick/horror movie with more than enough moments of suspense and intrigue. Katherine Heigl looks like she had a blast playing a notorious vixen, and she is fun to watch as she manipulates everybody around her.

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

15

>>> E V E N T S FRIDAY, MAY 5

City of Tuscaloosa Friday Night Live at the Plaza Concert Series to Feature Matt Jones Trio WHEN: 6:00pm -9:00pm COST: Free WHERE: Government Plaza 7th St. and 22th Ave. SE. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: LINK: http://visittuscaloosa.com/ events/#!/108612-city-of-tuscaloosa-fridaynight-live-at-the-plaza-concert-series-tofeature-matt-jones-trio DESCRIPTION: The City of Tuscaloosa will host musical acts in Government Plaza every Friday night starting April 28 and running through July as part of its third annual Live at the Plaza concert series. Each week's free concert will run from 6 to 9 p.m. and will feature a local band in the family-friendly atmosphere of Government Plaza, adjacent to the downtown parking deck. This week's band will be the Matt Jones Trio. Matt Jones is a popular local recording artist, with a recently released CD called Redemption. New this season is the creation of entertainment district for each concert. Alcohol can be purchased from restaurants and bars within the boundaries and taken to Government Plaza, which includes several surrounding blocks. Musical acts interested in performing and businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities for Live at the Plaza should contact liveattheplaza@ gmail.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Farmers Market WHEN: 7:00am and 12:00pm COST: Free WHERE: Tuscaloosa River Market 1900 Jack Warner Pkwy Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-5295 LINK: http://www.tuscaloosarivermarket.com/ DESCRIPTION: The River Market opened in May 2012. Vendors set up ripe red tomatoes and famous Chilton County peaches.

Musicians sit propped up against the door, playing guitars as you walk in, and freshly brewed iced tea is for sale to help battle the heat. Additionally, local Food Trucks, bakers, artists, and craftsmen gather here to sell their gourmet grub, fresh-baked yeast rolls, homemade jams and jellies and hand-carved cutting boards. Popular summer foods include tomatoes, Chilton County peaches, squash, corn, and local honey. The Farmers Market at the River Market is open from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturdays ALL YEAR LONG and on Tuesdays (from Memorial Day through Thanksgiving).

Now accepting: EBT/SNAP/SFMNP/WIC, cash, credit, and debit. Come on y'all, eat local!

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Live Music at The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater May 6th and 16th WHEN: 6:30pm-12:00am COST: $40-$90 WHERE: Tuscaloosa Amphitheater 2710 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-5280 LINK:http://www.tuscaloosaamphitheater.com/ DESCRIPTION: Saturday, May 6th Soundgarden will take the stage with an opening act TBA. Gates open at 7, band takes the stage at 8 p.m., and tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 17th. Soundgarden is an American rock band that plays grunge, heavy metal, alternative metal, hard rock,

16

MAY 3 + MAY 17

alternative rock. Tuesday, May 16th - John Legend with Gallant! Performance starts at 7:30 p.m., gates open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday. John Legend sings a variety of pop music, soul music, neo soul, and contemporary R&B. Gallant is a contemporary R&B singer-songwriter

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Tarred & Feathered @ Southern Ale House WHEN: 6:00pm-9:00pm COST: WHERE: Southern Ale House 1530 Mcfarland Blvd N Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 PHONE: (205) 799-1311 LINK: http://tarredandfeathered.info/ DESCRIPTION: Come join us on the patio at Southern Ale House on Thursday, March 9th for an evening of good music, good drinks, good food, and a great time. NO COVER. Our trio plays a great variety of songs through the decades with our own flare and threepart harmonies. We consist of three voices and a mixture of guitars, banjo, djembe, bongos, harmonicas, and other percussion toys - a perfect recipe for a great time! http:// tarredandfeathered.info/ tarred.an.feathered@ gmail.com http://southernalehouse.com/

and businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities for Live at the Plaza should contact liveattheplaza@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Tuscaloosa Amphitheater: John Legend & Gallant WHEN: 7:30pm-12:00am COST: https://www1.ticketmaster.com/johnlegend-tuscaloosa-alabama-05-16-2017/event/ 2000523F8788755B#efeat4212 WHERE: Tuscaloosa Amphitheater 2710 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-5280 LINK: http://www.tuscaloosaamphitheater.com/ DESCRIPTION: Live music at Tuscaloosa Amphitheater on Tuesday, May 16th - John Legend with Gallant! John Legend will perform on his Darkness and Light Tour 2017, with special guest Gallant. Performance starts at 7:30 p.m., gates open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday. John Legend sings a variety of pop music, soul music, neo soul, and contemporary R&B. Gallant is a contemporary R&B singer-songwriter.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Debbie Bond and "Radiator" Rick at Druid City Brewing Company WHEN: 7:00pm-9:00pm COST: Free WHERE: Druid City Brewing 607 14th St Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 342-0051 LINK: http://www.druidcitybrewing.com/ DESCRIPTION: Thursday, May 11 - Debbie Bond and "Radiator" Rick will take the stage at Tuscaloosa's first craft brewery. Music will begin at 7pm and end around 9pm. Debbie Bond is a singer, writer and guitar player who has played blues in Alabama for over 30 years.

Her immersion in the blues has deeply flavored her guitar playing, soulful voice and original song writing, yet her sound is contemporary and original, incorporating soul, blues, rock, jazz and Americana influences.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

City of Tuscaloosa Friday Night Live at the Plaza Concert Series to Feature Campbell Station WHEN: 6:00pm-9:00pm COST: Free WHERE: Government Plaza 7th St. and 22th Ave. SE. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: LINK: DESCRIPTION: The City of Tuscaloosa will host musical acts in Government Plaza every Friday night starting April 28 and running through July as part of its third annual Live at the Plaza concert series. Each week's free concert will run from 6 to 9 p.m. and will feature a local band in the family-friendly atmosphere of Government Plaza, adjacent to the downtown parking deck. For the week of May 12th, Live at The Plaza will present Campbell Station, a trio who has created country/rock music that is truly special. New this season is the creation of entertainment district for each concert. Alcohol can be purchased from restaurants and bars within the boundaries and taken to Government Plaza, which includes several surrounding blocks. Musical acts interested in performing

EARN EXTRA INCOME Help Local Businesses Get More Customers!

Sell Advertising Space in the Planet Weekly Please Call or Email Linda Johnson 205.792.7239 • publisher@theplanetweekly.com

GET NOTICED ADVERTISE IN PLANET WEEKLY.

To learn more, please email PlanetEditor@yahoo.com

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

CRAFT BEER | WINE | BARCADE | GROWLERS

GET NOTICED ADVERTISE IN PLANET WEEKLY.

To learn more, please email PlanetEditor@yahoo.com >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

MAY 3 + MAY 17

17

Effective

ADS CONTACT

205.792.7239

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!

GET NOTICED

ADVERTISE IN PLANET WEEKLY. To learn more, please email PlanetEditor@yahoo.com 18

MAY 3 + MAY 17

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

>>> 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 Friday, May 5 Sloss Furnace//Death Cab for Cutie Lyric Theatre//Marty Stuart & the Fabulous Saturday, May 6 Legion Field Stadium//Birmingham Funk Fest Monday, May 8 Iron City//Breaking Benjamin

Tuesday, May 9 BJCC Concert Hall//Brian Wilson

Wednesday, May 10 Saturn//Highly Suspect Iron City//Lil uzi Vert Theatre at the BJCC//Decades Rewind Thursday, May 11 Comedy Club Stardome//Henry Cho Iron City//Chase Rice

Saturday, May 13 The Crystal Lounge and Restaurant// Obituary Saturday, May 20 The Crystal Lounge//Tobin Sprout, Elf Power

Sunday, May 21 Oak Mountain Amphitheatre//Dierks Bentley w/ Cole Swindell and Jon Pardi Iron City//Mayday Parade Zydeco//Real Friends Tuesday, May 23 Saturn//Black Lips Iron City//An Evening with Primus

Wednesday, May 24 Oak Mountain Amphitheatre//Train, Natasha Bedingful The Crystal Lounge//Icon For Hire Thursday, May 25 Saturn//The Mountain Goats

NASHVILLE

Friday, May 5 Ryman Auditorium//The Pixies Bridgestone Arena//Luke Bryan & Brett Eldredge Nashville War Memorial Auditorium//In this Moment Saturday, May 6 Bridgestone Arena//Luke Bryan

Sunday, May 7 Ascend Amphitheater//Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds Monday, May 8 Cathedral fo Praise Church//Bloody Win Tour Tuesday, May 9 Nashville War Memoiral Auditorium// Breaking Benjamin Wednesday, May 10 Ryman Auditorium//Steve Winwood Friday, May 12 Marathon Music Works//Kehlani 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grille// Stoney Larue City Winery Nashville//Vivian Green

Saturday, May 13 Ryman Auditorium//Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors

Sunday, May 14 Exit In//Obituary Andrew Jackson Theater//Alice Cooper Monday, May 15 Ryman Auditorium//Phoenix

Tuesday, May 16 Ryman Auditorium//Georgia On My Minda

Wednesday, May 17 Bridgestone Arena//New Kids on the Block 3rd and Lindley Bar and Grill//Lee Brice Thursday, May 18 Exit In//New Found Glory Ascend Amphitheatre//John Legend

Friday, May 19 Ryman Auditorium//Little Big Town

Saturday, May 20 12th & Porter//Adrian Belew Power Trio

Sunday, May 21 Grand Ole Opry House//Nashville Boogie Weekender Schermerhorn Symphony Center//Harry Potter and Chamber of Secrets Tuesday, May 23 Bridgestone Arena//Maxwell

Wednesday, May 24 James K. Polk Theater//David Gray Bridgestone Arena//Hall and Oates & Tears For Fears

Saturday, May 27 High Watt//Tim Kasher

Wednesday, May 31 Ascend Amphitheater//Train, Natasha Bedingford

ATLANTA

Tuesday, May 9 Center Stage//Citizen Cope

Wednesday, May 10 Coca – Cola Roxy Theatre//Bush Center Stage//Haters Roast

Thursday, May 11 Lakewood Amphitheatre//Kings of Leon The Masquerade//The Damned Tabernacle//Ones to Watch Presents Blackbear

Friday, May 12 Verizon Amphitheatre//Zac Brown Band Actor’s Express//Wolf Parade Tabernacle//Ali Wong Saturday, May 13 Verizon Amphitheatre//Zac Brown Band The Masquerade//PUP Cobb County Civic Center//Tommy Roe Sunday, May 14 The Masquerade//A Boogie Cobb Energy Performing Arts//The Atlanta Ballet Presents Camino Real Monday, May 15 The Masquerade//New Found Glory The Masquerade//Veil of Maya Thursday, May 18 Tabernacle//Korn

Friday, May 19 Wolf Creek Amphitheater//Atlanta Funk Fest Chastain Amphitheater//John Legend Center Stage//Damien Escobar Sunday, May 21 Tabernacle//Trey Songz

Thursday, May 25 Tabernacle//David Gray The Masquerade//Morbid Angel

Saturday, May 26 The Masquerade//Say Anything & Bayside

Friday, May 26 Bridgstone Arena//Eric Church

>>> 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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

19

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

Across 1. Key of Beethoven's Sixth (abbr.)

5. Divine being in Hinduism 9. Foul matter 14. Pebbles' pet 15. Half of a fast court game 16. Congo creature 17. Generally 19. Ebbets Field great 20. Kind of suit or shot 21. Pattern 23. Matchsticks game 25. About which 30. Bother 33. CNN competitor 35. Bloemfontein's loc.

36. Psychic's card 37. Razor-billed birds 39. Treat with derision 42. Broadway musical with "We Need a Little Christmas" 43. Succinct 45. "The Wizard ____" (Parker-Hart strip) 47. Sidewalk user, informally 48. Jerk's creation 52. Describing certain voices 53. Part of Myanmar, or Tiananmen 54. Unites 57. Under, in poetry 61. Half of Hispaniola 65. Massive slide 67. Buddy of 60's-70's TV 68. "Village People" hit 69. Take risks 70. Regretting 71. Relaxed 72. Dress shirt closer

SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMANIA CROSSWORD ON PAGE 21

20

MAY 3 + MAY 17

Down 1. Job applicant's submission 2. "Rocky" role 3. "That could work" 4. Get ____ for (become used to) 5. ____ West 6. Folk singer DiFranco 7. Spouse's resigned assent 8. Brainstorming products 9. Flock 10. Native Nebraskan 11. God of the sea 12. Balanced 13. Levitate 15. Have great respect for 20. Gawker 22. Top half of a bikini 25. "____ rock bottom..." (Lindsay Lohan quote) 26. ____ of Wight 28. Genetic materials 29. Physics particles 31. Conditionally released 32. Johnny ____ (film) 34. ____ Barbeau (actress) 35. Turin, locally 37. Empty truck's weight 38. Myrmecologist's box 39. Passports, e.g.

41. Sounds frequently used in place of lyrics 44. Part of one's nature 45. Stroked on the green 47. Winning, so far 48. High-class horse 49. Place for tools 51. Rank below capt.

52. Has a bug 55. Hawaiian necklace

>>> 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

For Information, please email PlanetEditor@ yahoo.com

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

>>> HOROSCOPES | W E E K L Y O V E R V I E W As Mercury pushes ahead on May 3, it could coincide with a jolt of awareness that enables you to come to terms with an issue that has confused you for some time. This revelation could lead to inner change and a chance to transform thoughts and feelings so that they're aligned more closely with the outcome you desire. Also, a lovely link between the Sun and Neptune can be perfect for a first date or rekindling the flame of romance.

This week's good news is that your ruler Mercury pushes forward on May 3 in your sector of friendship and community. This could coincide with an unexpected opportunity that you may have turned down earlier, much to your chagrin. It seems that it may come around again for you, and this would be the time to grab it.

On another note, listening to your intuition or dreams could bring guidance on a career matter, especially if you're facing more than one option.

A Quarter Moon can encourage you to move in new circles, even if your values and ideals differ widely. Opening your mind to new ideas can lead to new friendships and opportunities you may never have considered before. At the same time, with Mercury pushing forward in your sector of career and ambition, you may find that the pace speeds up regarding a business venture or career plan. Even so, it would be just as well to expect the unexpected around May 3.

A powerful lunar phase midweek can be an opportunity to make a decision about a key ambition. If this is something you've put off recently, events could act as a catalyst, motivating you to step outside your comfort zone. And with Mercury forging ahead in your sector of travel, go easy for a few more days. Delays can still occur for a little while after Mercury turns direct. On another note, you may have a very tender spot for a co-worker.

Though you know you should be careful with your money, a lively blend of energies could encourage you to spend the cash anyway. And with Mercury turning direct and forging a link with innovative Uranus, you might be attracted to a new gadget that could revolutionize your life. However, if it really is on expensive side, it likely won't hurt you to wait. On a tender note, the middle to the end of the week can be perfect for a delectable date.

Though you know you should be careful with your money, a lively blend of energies could encourage you to spend the cash anyway. And with Mercury turning direct and forging a link with innovative Uranus, you might be attracted to a new gadget that could revolutionize your life. However, if it really is on expensive side, it likely won't hurt you to wait. On a tender note, the middle to the end of the week can be perfect for a delectable date.

Be prepared for one or two disruptions this week that could actually work in your favor. An unexpected event could jolt you out of your complacency and encourage you to get moving in order to salvage an opportunity or embrace an idea that has positive consequences for you. With Mercury pushing forward as of May 3, you may find that delays at work or concerning computing equipment gradually sort themselves out, enabling you to get on with the job.

A surprise invitation could encourage you to explore new leisure options, and if they include a dash of danger and some thrills and spills, you'll be even more enthused. With Mercury dancing forward as of May 3 you could find that a relationship that seemed to have stalled now begins to look livelier. You and another could have great chemistry, but at this stage it might be best to keep things lighthearted. Finally, comfort food could call out to you, so go easy.

The Sun continues through your leisure sector, encouraging you to take the time to explore your hobbies and passions. A lovely blend of energies this week could also encourage a new romance.

And, if you're willing to make the first move, a first date could be delightful. In addition, with Mercury pushing forward in your domestic sector, any delays related to your home or family may now begin to ease. When it comes to staying healthy, exercise that keeps you flexible is key.

With a focus on your home and family sector, you may feel like taking a step back from life and enjoying a little self-care. This can be very good for you, as you've probably had a very busy few weeks and need this chance to unwind. In addition, Mercury turns direct midweek, which can allow you to push ahead with any projects that have been on the back burner. At the same time, an exciting opportunity could open up for you.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Although Mercury, the planet of talk and thought, forges ahead midweek after its retrograde phase, it might be just as well to avoid splurging and impulsive spending, particularly over the next two weeks. A lovely aspect could encourage you and another to draw closer, perhaps as a result of confiding in each other. Whether this is a friendship or romance, you could find that something special develops between you that leads to a strong and supportive bond in the future.

Your social life looks like it will be very busy at this time. Reaching out to others can encourage you to get to know certain people better, whether in terms of a business relationship or a budding romance. Also, you might feel moved to make a decision regarding a creative venture. If you've already put this off for too long, this could be the week you get started. Finally, a shimmering blend of energies midweek could be perfect for romance.

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

MAY 3 + MAY 17

21

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

DRUID CITY ARTS FESTIVAL // GREER FAWLEY April’s Druid City Arts Festival, and the Druid City itself, encourages local artists to be active with their craft and in the community.

Artists like Greer Fawley had the opportunity to host a booth at the April 8th event.

Fawley, 25, originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a graduate student at the University of Alabama. Though this was her second consecutive arts festival, Fawley never planned on being a professional artist. She said that when she was younger, her mother would regularly take her to the beach, where she fell in love with the color of the ocean and the feel of the sand. A generous amount of her art has nautical themes, and she attributes that to those trips from her childhood. Most of her work is done on either wood or canvas.

Fawley arrived downtown at 5:30 a.m. to set her booth up in a way that allowed customers to easily see her work and to speak with her. As much as she loves creating her art, getting to meet people in the area with similar values as her, such as creativity, community and faith, brings her just as much joy.

She explained that she sometimes feels guilty relying on sites such as

22

MAY 3 + MAY 17

Amazon for gifts when she could be supporting someone doing similar work locally. “I could be buying someone’s soccer practice or dance lessons,” she said. She hopes and believes that others in the community feel the same way.

Fawley said that the only daunting aspect of participating in events like the arts festival is the possibility that she will spend time and money working on wood and canvases only to have no one purchase anything. Fawley’s skill and quality should then speak for itself, as that possibility did not come true.

She did say that while this was a successful art show, she thinks that last year’s event saw a bigger crowd, which lead to better sales.

After Fawley received her Bachelor’s Degree from UA, she spent three years working with Campus Ministry. This is when she began to sell her artwork to support herself. She started small with commissioned pieces for friends and family, and grew from there. At one point, a friend recommended that she start an Etsy page to sell her work on a global scale, and she did just that.

Etsy allows her to display her works at BeachesBePainting.etsy.com and she also has an Instagram account at BeachesBePainting.

The name Beaches Be Painting references the common theme of her work as well as an inside joke between her and her friends back in Virginia. She enjoys the regular interaction that being an artist brings. Being able to satisfy a customer looking for a personal Bible verse or any other sentimental affect drives her to be more creative.

Fawley plans on continuing her work to express herself and grow as an artist. When asked if making the same piece up to 15 times made her ever resent her work, she laughed and said of course not. “It’s not one person buying it 15 times, it’s new to everyone who receives it,” she said, meaning that she puts the same effort into every work of art. She is so dedicated to her customers that she was writing shipping labels while being interviewed.

The personal brand of UA’s own Greer Fawley exhales salty air and a sense of intrinsic tranquility, and it deserves a space in any home.

SOUNDGARDEN SATURDAY, MAY 6TH – 8PM DOORS OPEN – 7PM GENERAL ADMISSION & RESERVED SEATS$75.00 -$65.00 -$55.00 $40.00 **PLUS APPLICABLE FEES & SERVICE CHARGES** TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH – 10AM! JOHN LEGEND DARKNESS AND LIGHT TOUR SPECIAL GUEST GALLANT MAY 16TH – 7:30PM DOORS OPEN – 6:30PM ALL SEATS RESERVED $89.50 - $79.50 - $69.50 - $49.50 **PLUS APPLICABLE FEES & SERVICE CHARGES** TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10TH – 10AM! ONLINE AT TICKETMASTER.COM THE TUSCALOOSA AMPHITHEATER BOX OFFICE CHARGE BY PHONE 800.745.3000.

ALL DATES, ACTS & TICKET PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE. A SERVICE CHARGE IS ADDED TO EACH TICKET.

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

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

SABAN AGREES TO EIGHT-YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION

A

greement will keep Coach Saban as the Crimson Tide's head coach though January 31, 2025.

University of Alabama Director of Athletics Greg Byrne announced Tuesday that head football coach Nick Saban and the University have agreed to a long-term contract extension. The new agreement will extend his current contract to eight years and keep him in charge of the Crimson Tide football program through the 2024 season. The base salary and talent fee will remain the same. There will be a contract extension signing incentive of $4 million with an additional $4 million spread out through the 2020 (10 percent), 2021 (10 percent) and 2022 (80 percent) years of the contract.

"Terry and I are pleased and happy to agree to the contract extension The University of Alabama has offered us, ensuring our time here in Tuscaloosa will continue for many more years," Saban said. "This has become our home and we are looking forward to finishing our career at Alabama. I want to thank President Bell, Greg Byrne, our athletic administration, football staff and the entire University community for all of their support, which has been instrumental in the success of our organization. We are extremely proud of the young men who have represented the Crimson Tide on the football field, and more importantly, what they have been able to accomplish in their lives off the field because of their involvement in our program."

Saban is entering his 11th season and he has led his Alabama teams to four National Championships over the last decade. He has coached five Southeastern Conference Championship teams at UA, including each of the last three years. Saban has won 10 or more games for nine straight seasons and led the Crimson Tide to appearances in each of the first three College Football Playoffs. A total of 36 players have won 40 first team All-America honors during his tenure while 65 players have been selected in the NFL Draft since 2009, including 22 first round picks. Those numbers are all the best in the nation during that span.

announce that the best football coach in the country has agreed to a contract extension," said Byrne. "Before I came to Alabama, I was always impressed with Coach Saban and how he ran his program. After being here and seeing first-hand the job that he does, I've come away even more impressed.

Coach Saban has obviously won a lot of football games and championships, but he has also done an outstanding job when it comes to academics and community service. I don't think you can measure the positive impact he and Ms. Terry have made over the last decade. We look forward to working with them for many years to come."

Over the past 10 seasons, Saban's teams have also excelled in the classroom with a graduation success rate of 80 that ranked fifth among Associated Press top 25 teams and was the highest in the SEC a season ago. The Crimson Tide had 22 players compete in the most recent CFP National Championship Game in January after already earning their degree. A total of 101 players have competed in postseason play with a degree in hand over the last four seasons, which is the most in the country.

"It is truly remarkable when you look at what Coach Saban has accomplished here over the last decade and how the success of the football program has raised the overall profile of our institution," said University of Alabama President Stuart R. Bell. "Those accomplishments are not just on the field, as he has also done an outstanding job emphasizing academics and character development with our student-athletes."

Beyond the success on the field and the in the classroom, the Sabans have been very involved in community initiatives. Since arriving in Tuscaloosa in 2007, Nick and Terry Saban have raised nearly $6 million for charitable causes through their Nicks' Kids Foundation. Following the devastating 2011 tornado, they teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to help rebuild a total of 16 homes. The Sabans have personally donated $1 million to UA's first-generation scholarship fund and most recently spearheaded fundraising efforts for the new St. Francis Catholic Church student center, which is named in their honor.

Courtesy: UA Media Relations

"It is an exciting day when we can >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

MAY 3 + MAY 17

23

FEED YOUR FLAVORBUDS

North River / Holt Hillcrest Northport 4851 Rice Mine Rd. NE 1105 Southview Lane 1844 McFarland Blvd.

(205) 345-3737 (205) 345-6000 (205) 345-2633 Publix Shopping Center

5

FREE

$

WITH ANY ONLINE ORDER OF $15 OR MORE USE PROMO CODE

FREEHB

10

Offer only for online orders. Must register or be a registered user to receive the free Howie Bread®. Offer not valid in Florida. Offer expires June 4, 2017. Delivery and tax extra. Bottle deposit may apply. Additional charges may apply for Deep Dish and gluten-free substitutions, or chicken and steak. Offer available only at participating locations. Stores are independently owned and operated. Limited-time offer. Offer not valid on catering orders. If you have online ordering issues, visit hungryhowies.com/help

LARGE SPECIALTY PIZZA

LUNCH COMBOS

5

$

15

$

EACH

HUNGRY HOWIE’S FLAVORED CRUST® PIZZA

All stores independently owned & operated. Prices & participation may vary. Delivery, tax & additional toppings extra.

Additional charges may apply. Coupon/code required at checkout. Expires 06/31/2017.

20

$

LARGE DOUBLE TOPPER

6

$

LARGE SPECIALTY PIZZA, LARGE ONE-TOPPING PIZZA AND 2 LITER PEPSI®

99 CODE:

0405

Lg. 2-Topping Pizza

PICK YOUR

MEAL DEAL MAY 3 + MAY 17

HONEY CAJUN

FEATURED FLAVORED CRUST®

ALABAMA MIX & MATCH

HUNGRY HOWIE’S FLAVORED CRUST® PIZZA

All stores independently owned & operated. Prices & participation may vary. Delivery, tax & additional toppings extra.

Additional charges may apply. Coupon/code required at checkout. Expires 06/31/2017.

5

$ 99

CODE:

6705

Junior One-Topping Pizza and a 20 oz. Pepsi® Regular Calzone-Style Sub and a 20 oz. Pepsi® Any Two Howie Rolls® Regular Baked Spaghetti with a side of Howie Bread® and a 20 oz. Pepsi® Regular Chef Salad and a 20 oz. Pepsi®

LARGE 3-TOPPING PIZZA, REGULAR 3 CHEESER HOWIE BREAD® WITH DIPPING SAUCE AND 2 LITER OF PEPSI®

24

Kmart Shopping Center

HOWIE BREAD®

MEDIUM ONE-TOPPING PIZZA

$

Publix Shopping Center

CHOOSE ANY TWO Med. 1-Topping Pizza Large Chef Salad Any Large Calzone-Style Sub Large Baked Pasta 8 Original Howie Wings® or 5 Spicy Chicken Tenders HUNGRY HOWIE’S FLAVORED CRUST® PIZZA

All stores independently owned & operated. Prices & participation may vary. Delivery, tax & additional toppings extra.

Additional charges may apply. Coupon/code required at checkout. Expires 06/31/2017.

EXCLUSIVE WEDNESDAY CARRY OUT OFFER

WACKY WEDNESDAY®

5

$

EACH

Any Large Calzone-Style Sub Regular Chef Salad Any Large Baked Spaghetti Large Cheese Pizza HUNGRY HOWIE’S FLAVORED CRUST® PIZZA

All stores independently owned & operated. Prices & participation may vary. Delivery, tax & additional toppings extra.

Additional charges may apply. Coupon/code required at checkout. Expires 06/31/2017.

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