PLANET WEEKLY 538 HOT OFF THE PRESS!

taking a detour

// IN THIS ISSUE >> UP-TO-DATE RESTAURANT LISTINGS ›› CYNDI LAUPER ›› IN THE KITCHEN ›› THEATRE SEASON ›› TEXT NECK ›› EVENTS ›› COMMUNITY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

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ENTERTAINMENT 5 CHAMBER NEWS 6 BOOK REVIEW

PUBLISHER LI NDA W. JO H N S O N MANAGING EDITOR WI LLIAM B ARS H O P GRAPHIC DESIGNER EVE TEMONIA EVENTS C H A S E DY E R ROAD TRIP T R E Y BR 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 4 CYNDI LAUPER // DAVE GIL DE RUBIO

““I always wanted to sing a country record. I learned a lot about singing from listening to Patsy Cline, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, Johnny Burnette and all those rockabilly guys along with Wanda Jackson, who was the first rocker,” Lauper explained.”

6 TEXT NECK // DR. RACHEL STEINER

““Text Neck”, definitely a condition coined in the past decade among health care professionals when describing the symptoms of their patients. With the advancement of technology and more frequent complaints of neck pain, shoulder pain, and headaches, this new term is only going to be seen more often.”

7 2017-2018 SEASON // THEATRE TUSCALOOSA

9 BEER/WINE REVIEWS 10 IN THE KITCHEN

RESTAURANT GUIDE

14 PET PLANET 15 MOVIE REVIEWS 16 EVENTS 19 DECEMEBER ART NIGHT 20 PUZZLEMANIA / EDITORIAL CARTOON

“Theatre Tuscaloosa will present three plays, two musicals, a one-night-only appearance by folk singer Kate Campbell, and two SecondStage productions during the 2017-2018 Season, which is themed “Music & Mystery.”

21 HOROSCOPE

22 COMMUNITY ARTS // KEVIN LEDGEWOOD

HIGH TIDE SPORTS

““Dark Patriot,” an exhibit featuring the work of Matt Daugherty, will be displayed at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center July 7-28, 2017. The exhibit, consisting of acrylic paintings, will be displayed in The Arts Council Gallery.”

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SABAN WEEKLY PRESS CONFERENCE GARY HARRIS

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F E AT U R E | D A V E G I L D E R U B I O

CYNDI LAUPER // TAKES DETOUR TO COUNTRY

W

hen Cyndi Lauper burst onto the music scene with her 1983 debut album “She’s So Unusual,” everything about her image found Lauper living up to the album title, from her quirky speaking voice and eccentric thrift store wardrobe to the fiercely independent mindset that showed itself in pop songs about feminist empowerment and female masturbation.

So more than three decades later, it might seem a bit unusual for her to be seemingly conforming by delving into a project of country music material. But for the 63-year-old singer-songwriter with a four-octave vocal range, it wasn’t really a stretch, especially given the fact that she heard much of that music as a kid, either on her Aunt Gracie’s black and white transistor radio or while spending time with her ‘Nana’ watching Patsy Cline sing on “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts” television show.

“I always wanted to sing a country record. I learned a lot about singing from listening to Patsy Cline, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, Johnny Burnette and all those rockabilly guys along with Wanda Jackson, who was the first rocker,” Lauper explained. “When I met John Turi [of Blue Angel], he started playing me all these [early rock & rollers] people. At the time, this music I sang was right around when country and blues kind of walked hand-in-hand. There were blues people writing and listening to country music and writing those kinds of stories.”

Lauper’s interest in that time period found her exploring the blues side of the coin when she released 2010’s Grammynominated “Memphis Blues,” a collection of songs on which she did duets with the likes of B.B. King, Ann Peebles, Charlie Musselwhite and Allen Toussaint, while digging into the catalogs of Little Walter, Albert King and

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Muddy Waters.

It was with this in mind that Sire Records founder Seymour Stein approached Lauper about coming to Nashville to record material predominantly drawn from that 1950s-1960s music era. With Stein providing a list of suggested songs and an introduction to storied Music Row producer Tony Brown, Lauper fell in love with the process and the locale of her latest project.

“I didn’t do all the songs on the list I wanted to do. Just like with the blues album, there are tons of blues songs I wanted to do along with tons of country songs,” she said. “I wouldn’t have sung ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ or even ‘She Bop’ had I not listened to country singers like Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton. But Dolly is a different character. There’s something about her that you just love her, and if you don’t, there’s really something wrong with you. It was a great honor to go down to Nashville and make music inside of Nashville. “[Prior albums like] ‘Sisters of Avalon’ and ‘Shine’ were made outside of Nashville in Hendersonville,” Lauper said.

“Then I actually got to work in Nashville proper. It’s a great place because there’s still a very strong music community and they’re very supportive of each other and of me. I love the fact that they still have honky-tonks and places where people can sing.”

Having narrowed her selections down to classics recorded by iconic artists like Cline (“I Fall to Pieces”), Jackson (“Funnel of Love”) and Marty Robbins (“Begging to You”), Lauper also was joined by an array of famous names helping out with the instudio heavy lifting, including Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss, Vince Gill, Jewel and Emmylou Harris.

Texas swing of Patsy Montana’s seminal “I Want To Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart,” complete with the latter’s robust yodeling, or Harris lending some crystalline harmonies to the bouncy title cut.

And while Gill’s extraordinary guitar work is all over “Detour,” he plays Conway Twitty to Lauper’s Loretta Lynn on a lively reading of “You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly.” Equally notable are Nelson’s contributions to a laidback version of his “Night Life.” As much a fan as she is a performer, Lauper, not surprisingly, was thrilled by who showed up at the studio.

Highlights abound whether it’s Lauper and Jewel mastering the

“I think all these country guys influenced me, and I knew about

Willie Nelson when I was in Blue Angel because he wrote ‘Crazy’ and I was very aware of Patsy Cline. I used to have a Patsy Cline button in 1980. I really loved her music, her sound and voice,” she said. “I was listening to [Willie’s] early work at that time because I knew about him.

I met Emmy (Harris) on another project and I still want to sing with her again. I wouldn’t mind being in a band with her. She’s just so great and I love Alison Krauss—I always have. I’m a big, huge fan of all these people. For me, it was a great experience to go down there and have all those people play on my record. It was extraordinary.”

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NEWS OFFICIALS BREAK GROUND FOR NEW $11.6 MILLION EDGE INCUBATOR Facility expands business incubator space to 26,300 square feet at 10th Avenue location Local officials and community leaders gathered Monday to break ground for a new facility for The Edge, a partnership between the University of Alabama, the City of Tuscaloosa and the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama that aids both start-ups and existing businesses in developing business skills and assisting with day-to-day operations.

Currently housed in space donated by Regions Bank in downtown Tuscaloosa, The Edge has outgrown its facility, having mentored more than 300 businesses and served as working space for more than 75 emerging companies.

The business incubator will have a new home at 2627 10th Avenue, the site of the former Armed Forces Reserve Center armory.

“This project is collaboration at its finest. It proves what can happen when The University of Alabama, City of Tuscaloosa and Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama work toward a shared goal,” said Jim Page, President and CEO, Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama.

“The home of the new Edge is on property that was ground zero of the devastating tornado a little over 6 years ago. This project is yet another example of Tuscaloosa building back stronger, safer and smarter.”

“Many of us have long talked about the importance of diversifying our economic base in order to not only attract new residents, but also retain a larger percentage of college graduates. This new Edge facility will play a critical role in creating the entrepreneurial ecosystem that will do just that.”

The new 26,300-square-foot facility will cost a total $11,687,597.37. The Edge will have 25 offices, 100 workstations, training rooms and a working lounge.

“We are always grateful for opportunities to partner with our city and further our economic outreach to improve quality of life for citizens of West Alabama,” said Dr. Stuart Bell, President, the University of Alabama. “As the city’s largest employer, we recognize the significant impression we have on Tuscaloosa, and this comes with great responsibility. It’s part of our vision and mission at the Capstone to continue investing in our city and potential businesses, and helping to mature young and small businesses across the city, and through that, leading our city to a more prosperous future.

FORERUNNERS CLASS OF 2017-18 NAMED PARTICIPANTS FOR THE FORERUNNERS PROGRAM HAVE BEEN SELECTED FOR THE CLASS OF 2017-18.

Designed for eleventh grade students in the Tuscaloosa area, Forerunners provides an analysis of major areas of identified community concerns and trains the participants in specific leadership skills, while providing opportunities for decision-making and problem solving through group processes. Each participant must go through a stringent application process to be selected for the program.

American Christian Academy: Madelyn Blakley, Jack Ballard, Luke Hydrick, Sania Mitchell, Drake Montgomery, Garrett Welch.

Brookwood High School: Alyssa Ellis, Tyler McCreless.

Central High School: LaBoris Perry, Symia Smith.

Hillcrest High School: Elle Allen, Lauren Beck, Abbey Ray, Reagan Ray, Lizzie Shaw, Chris Thomas II. Holy Spirit: Hayden Barr, Chichi Alilonu, Maryssa Craig, Eva Farrish, Lillian Laubenthal, Trinity Odongo, Roni Peramsetty.

North River Christian Academy: Emily Wallace, Andrew Turner.

Northridge High School: Walker Ferry, Samantha Savage, Ethan Sneckenberger, Amelia Upton.

Northside High School: Amber Fenimore, Hannah Fishbaugh, Brady Gregory, Andrew Maluda, Marla Grace Sanford.

Paul W. Bryant High School: Kyla Thomas, Zee Perkins-Washington.

The Capitol School: Austin Hyslop, Michael Riches.

Tuscaloosa Academy: Wat Adair, Madison Formby, William Hamiter, J.P. Sanders.

Tuscaloosa Christian School: Callie Elkins.

Tuscaloosa County High School: Abby Cobb, Mallory Cobb, Ellie Miles, Amanda Noland, Katelyn Perkins, Hunter Sexton.

The Edge Center is a unique and strategic resource for businesses in our area. The University, through the Culverhouse College of Commerce, is proud to partner with the City and the Chamber in this endeavor, and we at the University are committed to its success.”

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

DIAGNOSIS // TEXT NECK “T

ext Neck”, definitely a condition coined in the past decade among health care professionals when describing the symptoms of their patients. With the advancement of technology and more frequent complaints of neck pain, shoulder pain, and headaches, this new term is only going to be seen more often.

Text Neck is the term used to describe neck pain and damage caused by looking down at your cell phone, tablet, and/or other forms of technology too frequent and for long periods of time. According to statistics, Americans are spending a staggering average of 4.7 hours on their cell phones or tablet devices a day. Considering the average person gets 8 hours of sleep, we are spending over a third of our day on our “handheld lifelines”. The constant bending of your neck forward has been going on long before cellphones for things such as reading, but the problem is technology is adding one more activity that is leading to these musculoskeletal problems.

Symptoms of “Text Neck” include neck pain and upper back pain that is sharp in nature, muscle spasms, headaches, shoulder pain and tightness, and in severe cases causes neurological symptoms like numbness and tingling into ones arm and fingers due to nerve entrapment. Our bodies were designed to have a curve in the neck that develops and is strengthened when we are babies that keeps our head upright . The purpose of the curve is to keep pressure off our discs, nerves, and bones. The consistent flexion or bending of the neck over time can change ones posture that causes loss of the crucial curve in the neck that we were designed to have. The muscles running from the base of skull, down the back of the neck, and even to the shoulder area become weakened and stretched and can lead to chronic headaches and muscle spasm.

As a chiropractor, I am seeing this condition more often in the office.

Examining x-rays of a healthy neck, there is a visible curve that is present and the spaces where the discs sit are evenly open through the neck. On the flip side, someone with text neck

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THE MARK OF CRIMINALITY //

RHETORIC, RACE, AND GANGSTA RAP IN THE WAR-ON-CRIME ERA - Bryan J. McCann

has an alarmingly straight neck with a loss of the important curve. The average adult head weighs between 10-12 pounds, and when the head is tilted forward and constantly looking down at technology, this increases the gravitational pull on the neck and supporting muscles. This applies a great deal of pressure to this delicate area of the spine and the force is equivalent to 60 pounds of extra weight.

Technology is not going anywhere- social media, text messaging, and gaming is making us more addictive to our devices than ever. So what can we do about it to decrease the risk of damage to our precious spine? Because, we can buy new technology but our spine is irreplaceable. The first tip is no slouching. Not only are we looking down at our devices but usually hunched forward as well. Bring your phone or tablet to eye level. This will be very uncomfortable at first but your body will get used to it and it will save your neck. Strengthening and stretching your muscles can help alleviate the nagging pain caused from “text neck”, visit your chiropractor or physical therapist to learn exercises that will help your posture. Lastly, if you are a parent and have control over how much your children are using technology, limit their time on their devices.

Childhood are crucial years for spinal and muscular development and their activities and posture at even a young age are setting them up for the rest of their lives.

The University of Alabama Press is a proud member of the Association of American University Presses. The Press currently publishes 70-75 new titles a year and has over 1,800 titles in print. It is a founding member of the University Press Content Consortium and is at the cutting edge of digital publishing. The Press is the publishing arm of the University of Alabama.

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THEATRE TUSCALOOSA ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON Theatre Tuscaloosa will present three plays, two musicals, a one-night-only appearance by folk singer Kate Campbell, and two SecondStage productions during the 2017-2018 Season, which is themed “Music & Mystery.”

The mainstage season opens with Patrick Barlow’s The 39 Steps (September 22-October 1). This comical spythriller mixes a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel and a dash of Monty Python. The 39 Steps is a two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning mystery packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters, an on-stage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and old-fashioned romance. This fast-paced whodunit is fun for ages 11 and up.

Back by popular demand, Theatre Tuscaloosa is reviving Romulus Linney’s stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (December 8-17). In this traditional tale, four mysterious spirits visit Ebenezer Scrooge to help him find the true meaning of Christmas. It is a show for both young and old and a great way to get the whole family into the holiday spirit.

At the beginning of the new year, audiences will be transported to 1920s Berlin in Cabaret (February 23-March 4). Based on the writings of Christopher Isherwood with book by Joe Masteroff, music by John Kander, and lyrics by Fred Ebb, Cabaret won Tony Awards for best musical and best score. Cliff, a young, American novelist, arrives in Berlin to find his muse. He is eagerly swept into the world of the Kit Kat Klub, where the incomparable emcee, to be played by Ray Taylor, proclaims there are no troubles and life is a cabaret!

Cliff's typewriter sits idle as he becomes entangled with the mysterious Sally Bowles. A dark, menacing power

is on the rise in Berlin, but for now they remain blissfully ignorant. After all, in the Kit Kat Klub, life is beautiful, the girls are beautiful, and even the orchestra is beautiful!

This musical is intended for mature audiences.

In May, audiences are invited to visit Second Samuel (May 18-27), a sleepy, south Georgia town where it's hard to keep a secret, but everybody has one. The show is set during the summer that Second Samuel’s beloved music teacher, Miss Gertrude, passes away. As her friends and neighbors prepare for her funeral, her mysteries are unveiled. Nobody could have imagined how the death of one sweet little old lady would turn the entire town upside down! This show is appropriate for audience members ages 13 and older.

The mainstage season will conclude with the summer musical, Once Upon a Mattress (July 13-22). When Winnifred the Woebegone arrives at Prince Dauntless the Drab's castle hoping to win his hand, his overbearing mother, Queen Agravain, invents a test that only a true princess can hope to pass. Based on “The Princess and the Pea” by Hans Christian Anderson, this funny and irreverent musical is filled with songs, laughter, and romance for the whole family.

The SecondStage season opens with CQ/CX by Gabe McKinley, running November 1-5. This show asks the question, “What is truth – facts or feelings?” A young, hotshot writer’s fast and loose writing style forces The New York Times to dig for an answer. Like all SecondStage productions, this show will be presented in a small, intimate venue (less than 100 seats) and will feature new theatre artists as they explore and experiment with the art form. The venue is to be determined.

On October 27, 2017, Theatre Tuscaloosa will hold a special event as Kate Campbell returns to the BeanBrown Theatre for Page to Stage: Kate Campbell – Songs and Stories. Campbell is a renowned singersongwriter recognized worldwide for her unique sound and storytelling style. This one-night-only performance will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The SecondStage season concludes March 26-30 with A Festival of One-Acts, which will feature four brief, funny, poignant plays presented all in one evening. The venue is to be determined.

The 2017-2018 season is produced in cooperation with Shelton State Community College and will be presented in the Bean-Brown Theatre on the Martin Campus of Shelton State Community College (9500 Old Greensboro Road), except as noted above.

Season tickets are discounted fifteen percent over individual ticket prices and include the five mainstage productions: The 39 Steps, A Christmas Carol, Cabaret, Second Samuel, and Once Upon a Mattress. Packages are $89 for adults, $77 for seniors and member of the military, and $63 for students and children. Season tickets may be purchased as either traditional packages (same night and seat(s) for each show) or as flex passes, which may be redeemed in any order and combination for any of the 2017-2018 mainstage productions. Both Page to Stage: Kate Campbell – Songs & Stories and the two SecondStage productions may be purchased at a discount as add-ons to any season package.

CHAMBER NEWS, continued from page 5

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FOR ADOPT-A-SCHOOL GOLF TOURNEY NOW OPEN Early bird registration for the Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa Adopt-A-School Golf-Tournament is now open! The tournament, scheduled for September 7, 2017 at Ol' Colony Golf Complex is a fourman scramble with morning and afternoon flights.

The four man scramble tournament offers an opportunity for golfers and area businesses to provide financial support for the Adopt-A-School program and direct financial support for area schools.

Registration fees — includes green fees, cart and lunch (lunch served from 11:30 am-1:00 pm)

Golfer Advantage Package - $25 per player ($100 per team) includes:

Hole Sponsorships are available for $150 each until Aug. 1st; $250 after Aug. 1st.

Email carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com or call • 2 Mulligans - to be used on any hole • 1 Pepsi Challenge Drive - free tee shot from a (205) 391-0556 to register, or for details about available sponsorships. par 5 with Pepsi cup over the ball • 1 Raffle Ticket – opportunity to win cash and prizes

• $125 per player ($500 per team) for EARLY BIRD Registration (registration prior to August 1st) • $150 per player ($600 per team) for REGULAR Registration (registration after August 1st)

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

Photos Courtesy of Sheena Gregg

FRUTTA BOWLS // A BOWL OF GORGEOUS GOODNESS I

t is a very rare occasion that a new business opening becomes the turning point of redefining the type of city we live in. There’s always that certain place with a very specific niche that effortlessly balances trendy/relevant with a plan of sustainability. Enter Frutta Bowls Tuscaloosa, a new eatery in Tuscaloosa debuting last weekend fueled by pretty food and good nutrition. You could definitely categorize Frutta Bowls as one of those places where every item offered is “insta worthy.”

Owned by an all-star team of Tuscaloosa entrepreneurs Josh and Sam Giambalvo, Richard Arrington, and Brent Keith, the Frutta Bowls concept was originally brought to Alabama after the Giambalvos connected with close friends in the New Jersey area responsible for the original locations. Jumping in head first, the team aggressively started work on the location space next to O’Henry’s coffees and performed a marathon of interviews to get the best set of welcoming faces passionate about the products of Frutta Bowls.

As a dietitian and foodie, I knew before I even tasted anything that this could easily be a regular spot for me. Despite a grand opening last Saturday, I was lucky enough to sneak in one day early for Frutta Bowls’ soft opening to allow the staff to get in the swing of things before the grand opening shebang.

Pulling up to the shop, I was immediately bombarded by clusters of folks sitting in the patio area taking pictures of their bowls. Walking into the space, my eyes lit up at the energy and openness of the restaurant. Energized by natural light coming through the windows and colorful menu items, I was ready to order something tasty. Waiting in line, I was relieved to see that in addition to bowls, the shop also offered smoothies. Knowing I was about to head to an intense workout later that afternoon, I opted to go for a smoothie as my preview item.

Secretly balancing my smoothie choice

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between smart nutrition before my workout and how “pretty” the smoothie would be, I finally opted for the Pink Flamingo containing organic pitaya (also known as dragon fruit), mango, pineapple, and water. I had the opportunity to bedazzle it with some upgrades like chia seeds, protein powder, and other items, but that afternoon I felt like simple was better.

Waiting for my fuchsia concoction, Sam Giambalvo enticed me into trying one of the various kombucha flavors on tap. Going with the jalapeno lime, I was pleasantly surprised at the balance between sweet and savory flavors hitting my mouth. After tasting kombucha samples, I couldn’t help but take pictures of every Frutta Bowl coming off the line.

Drizzles of peanut butter and Nutella were the perfect platform for shredded coconut and chia seeds to top off the bowls of fruit, granola, and various smoothie bases.

It wasn’t long before my Pink Flamingo reached my hand and into my mouth. It was a difficult decision deciding between tasting first or taking a picture for social media. When I finally had my first taste, I appreciated how light and refreshing the smoothie was. Knowing I could have added some additional components to make it a more substantial meal replacement after a workout confirmed that I would be returning to this place very soon.

If you haven’t figured out already, Frutta Bowls will need to be on your summer to-do list multiple times this season and beyond. With friendly faces and delicious products, I am 100% confident that Frutta Bowls is here to stay.

Frutta Bowls is located at 2531 University Boulevard and open daily.

Tweet us @ThePlanetWeekly and let us know where you are eating!

Sheena Gregg, MS, RDN,LD is a registered dietitian and local Filipino Foodie. Follow her on Twitter @TheThriftyRD

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JAI ALAI IPA // CIGAR CITY BREWING

LOUIS MARTINI // CABERNET SAUVIGNON

M

ost breweries have a line of core offerings that are available to their fans all yearround, but more valuable to the craft beer drinker are the beers that are only available seasonally. These seasonal beers are usually more expensive to produce and a way for the brewer to offer something that’s a little more fun and exciting to the end consumer. Such is the case with Cigar City’s White Oak Jai Alai, a variation on their year-round Jai Alai India Pale Ale offering. This beer is only available twice during the year and when it’s released into the wild, it’s usually purchased rather quickly. Luckily, I was able to locate a four pack so I could enjoy the magic of this beer. Here are my thoughts: First of all, the can for this beer is probably my least favorite aspect, because, well, the Jai Alai can is just not appealing to me in the first place. So, adding a wood textured look to the can in black and white really makes me hate it, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts and luckily, the stuff on the inside is incredible.

I poured this beer into a pint glass and immediately you notice the amber, orange color with a little bit of haze and about two finger widths of fluffy white foam resting on top. There’s a bit of light lacing on the glass as the beer settles. One thing that sets this beer apart to me is the fact that this beer smells very different than the original Jai Alai. There’s still a little bit of those orange and pine aromas, but with this version, you get a nice dose of vanilla in the nose. This small change is what does it for me with this beer. That little bit of vanilla ties everything together and mellows out the nose. It’s almost like sherbet or something with the orange notes from the hops and the vanilla from the oak spirals. Just incredible.

Taste is yet again another masterpiece from Cigar City. You get those great notes of orange and pine, but like the nose, you get a nice taste of vanilla that smoothes the flavor out. You get a nice taste of the oak as well and it makes this beer so easy to drink. Up front it’s all orange and pine, but as the sip continues, you start to pick up that vanilla and it carries you through the rest of the sip. I seriously love how this beer tastes.

As far as mouthfeel, you would think that with it being oak-aged that it would be heavy, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. This beer is soft on the tongue with the carbonation and the hop bite at the end sticks to the back of your cheeks and gives you that twinge that a good, juicy IPA should.

Overall, this beer is incredible and every time I see it, I freak out and buy it immediately. Like I said earlier, it’s a seasonal offering so you won’t be able to sip on this one all year long. Find it. Drink it. Repeat.

Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Louis M. Martini winery in Healdsburg, Sonoma County, California, USA.

However, the wine’s taste was brighter than expected. On the palate you get a nice combination of red and black fruits and a bit of spice.

For this review I tasted the 2012 vintage.

For flavors, I noticed ripe red raspberry balanced with black cherry. I was also pleasantly surprised by how dry this wine is.

According to the bottle, the winery was started by Louis M. Martini in Napa Valley in 1933. As time went on he expanded with vineyards into both Napa and Sonoma.

Cabernet Sauvignon was his passion.

Now, the winemaker is Michael Martini, his grandson.

Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Review Louis Martini Cabernet SauvignonIn the glass, this wine is quite dark. The color is almost black plum and very little light gets through.

Although the flavors may sound sweet, this is not a sweet red. This wine is more similar in flavor to a pure Cabernet Sauvignon. I did discover after reading the tasting notes that there is also 8% Petite Sirah blended in to provide the dark fruit characteristics. So, it’s a bit of a blend.

The wine had a wool like mouthfeel with strong and well-structured tannins. I especially noticed the tannins behind my upper and lower lips, but they were present all over the palate.

The wine exhibits thick legs that fall slowly down the sides of the glass.

I noticed a nice dark jammy aroma as soon as I pulled the cork out of the bottle. On the nose, it’s a heavy aroma of rich dark cherry with a hint of savory spice.

A bit of a whiff of alcohol was also noticed.

However, it’s mostly subdued by the rich cherry.

Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon alcohol content 13.8% by volume, per the bottle.

The wine’s taste surprised me a little, but in a pleasant way.

Given the richness of the aroma, I was really only expecting flavors of rich dark fruits.

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Even though the tannins were quite present, the wine had a surprising smoothness to it.

Finish of this wine was long with a great balance of the tannins versus the flavors, lingering on the palate.

Overall, I have to say I really enjoyed Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet is my favorite wine and this one pressed all the right buttons for me.

I love that this is a complex wine. But, all the complexities are very well balanced. I also love to be surprised and have my expectations exceeded. This wine did that.

I would suggest pairing Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon with a grilled or wood fired steak. It has the strength to cut through and compliment that kind of dish.

Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon price paid $15.99. Recommend!

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

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

EASY SUMMER MACARONI SALAD RECIPES Macaroni salads are always a big hit at summer barbecues. These recipes are easy to prepare and you can make them ahead of time. They taste better if you let them sit in the refrigerator and let the pasta absorb the flavors of the other ingredients. Surprise your loved ones with one of these delicious pasta creations at your next summer family get together.

Macaroni Salad

Ingredients: 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

>>> RESTAURANTS | 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.

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

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

Cooking Instructions: 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.

Deli-Style Pasta Salad

Ingredients: 1 pkg. (7 oz.) corkscrew macaroni 6 oz. sliced genoa salami, cut into strips 1 small onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings 1 can (2-1/4 oz.) sliced pitted ripe olives, drained 1/4 c. grated parmesan cheese 1/4 c. white wine vinegar 1 tsp. dried oregano and basil (crushed) 6 oz. provolone cheese, cut into 3/4-in. cubes 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced 1/4 c. snipped parsley 1-1/2 tsp. dry mustard 1/2 c. chopped green pepper Sweet red pepper 1/2 c. olive oil 1 minced garlic clove 2 med. tomatoes, cut into wedges Cooking Instructions: Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water and drain again. In large bowl combine macaroni, Provolone cheese, salami, zucchini, onion, peppers, olives, Parmesan cheese and parsley. Dressing: in screw top jar combine olive oil, vinegar, dry mustard, oregano, basil and garlic. Cover and shake well. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss lightly to coat. Cover and chill overnight, or at least 4 hours. To serve, add tomato wedges and toss lightly.

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 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 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

Ingredients: 1 pkg. curly macaroni 1 onion, chopped 1 tomato, chopped 1 cucumber, chopped 1 c. grated cheddar cheese 1 c. chopped ham 4 tbsp. mayonnaise

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

Ingredients: 2 c. macaroni 1 c. celery, chopped 1 small onion, chopped 1/4 green pepper, chopped 1 (7 oz.) can shrimp, drained 3-4 hard boiled eggs, chopped 1/2 tsp. salt 1 c. Miracle Whip 3/4 c. French dressing

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

Cooking Instructions: Cook macaroni and drain well. Mix Miracle Whip and French dressing together and pour over ingredients. Toss. Chill and serve.

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

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

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.

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

LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871 La Fiesta Mexican Grill 6521 AL-69, Tuscaloosa// 345-8580 Mon-Thur 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm Sun 11am-9pm 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

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

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

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

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

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

Cooking Instructions: Cook macaroni and drain well. Add the rest of the ingredients. Chill.

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

Don Tono's 2312 4th Street | Temerson Square // 345.9191

Curly Macaroni Salad

10

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

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-

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JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

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

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

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

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JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

13

>>> PET PLANET

NICK // PERFECT COMPANION

ELLIOTT // CUTIE PIE

T

T

his debonair young man is Patton, a 1-year-old Schnauzer/Dachshund mix. He has a shaggy long black and tan coat and a long body. He is small weighing about 23 pounds, and this is full grown. Patton was pulled from our local animal shelter where he had been picked up by Animal Control, and no one came to claim him. Patton was very scared and shy there, so we pulled him out to help lower his stress level. We are already seeing such a difference!

his cutie pie is Elliott. He is a solid back little male that is a bob-tailed kitten! He is at the shelter with his siblings: Anastasia, Christian and Dylan and they're all bob-tailed too! You know you want to come meet this sweet little family.

Patton is a bit shy at first but comes out of his shell when you let him come to you and get to know you first. He is then so sweet and wants some attention. Patton seems pretty calm and should be fine in an apartment as long as he gets some daily exercise. He will require a fenced-in yard if left outside any unattended.

If you are interested in giving CHEWY or ELLIOTT 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.

Elliott is current on vaccinations, litter box trained and will be neutered once he’s old enough. We hope you will bring him into your heart and home!

Patton should be fine with older children; young ones may frighten him or make him nervous. He seems to do ok with other dogs, but he is probably better with ones that are calm or older. We have started on his crate training. Patton is up-to-date with his vet care, neutered, heartworm negative, and is microchipped. He is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention.

Such a sweet dog! Patton is looking for a good home where he can feel comfortable and show his true colors!

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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

Turning point domestic violence and sexual assault services center and the Board of Directors are excited to announce the new Executive

ACT Presents

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

At the BAMA Theatre

on February 27, 2017. A few words of welcome are planned by local officials including, Chief Tommy Reese of Demopolis, Dr. Mallory of

// IN THIS ISSUE

Shelton, board members and others. In recognition of Turning Point,

>> UP-TO-DATE RESTAURANT LISTINGS ›› JAMES MCMURTRY ›› DOG TREATS ›› THEATRE SEASON ›› BEATING THE ALABAMA HEAT

the West Alabama areas domestic violence/sexual assault agency,

›› EVENTS ›› ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

MAY 31 + JUNE 14

1

Next Issue // June 28

Advertising Deadline: Friday, June 23 205-523-4668//205-792-7239

theplanetweekly.com 14

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

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

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY// VOLUME 2

★★★★

OU T OF 4

“S

uper” writer & director James Gunn took moviegoers for an irreverent, interplanetary joyride, peppered with pop culture references, in “Guardians of the Galaxy” back in 2014. Happily, Gunn’s sequel “Guardians of the Galaxy, Volume 2” qualifies as just as impressive with several surprises. If you haven’t seen “GoTG, Vol. 1,” then you may have problems putting both the swashbuckling characters and their outlandish backstory into context in this imaginative, science-fiction, followup saga. Good sequels always dig deeper into the original characters and conjure up newcomers. “GoTG, Vol. 2” reassembles the same quintet and scrutinizes them in greater detail. Peter Quill, ostensibly the Guardians’ leader, catches up with his enigmatic sire, Ego, and father and son surprise each other with their goals during the second act.

We learn that Ego has been searching the universe for his long, lost son.

Later, Yondu observes astutely about the grandiose Ego: “He may have been your father, Quill, but he wasn't your daddy.” This father and son connection yields the ultimate surprise, too, but discretion prevents me from divulging specifics. The peculiar relationship that Quill has forged with Yondu Udonta, the extraterrestrial space pirate who abducted Quill from Earth after the lad fled from the hospital where his cancerstricken mom died takes on an added dimension. No character changes as much in “GoTG 2” as Yondu. He evolves from a villain to an honorable individual. Meanwhile, sibling rivalry keeps Quill’s quasi-girlfriend Gamora locked into a feud with her jealous sister Nebula. Nebula hates Gamora with a passion because their evil stepfather Thanos preferred Gamora over her.

Smutty-mouthed Rocket Raccoon remains as obnoxious as ever, but his bad-tempered attitude thaws during the third act. Good sequels send off the characters onto exciting new adventures against different villains.

The Guardians are summoned to a remote corner of the cosmos again.

The new aliens—the Sovereigns— constitute a petulant people with little sense of humor. When Rocket infuriates them, the latter pursue the Guardians with a vengeance until greater powers interfere.

The last time we saw the Guardians, the Nova Corps had cleared them of all crimes and provided them with a refurnished version of his spaceship "The Milano.” The arboreal, sentientlike, extraterrestrial Groot (Vin Diesel’s voice) had sacrificed himself to save his companions, but Rocket Raccoon

scourged up a surviving twig and has planted it. As “GoTG, Vol. 2,” unfolds, an arrogant race of gilded humanoids known as the Sovereigns have employed our motley crew to protect their priceless batteries from an enormous but absurd-looking trout with thrashing tentacles and thousands of thorny teeth. During the hilarious opening credits gambit, the roguish Star-Lord (Chris Pratt of “The Magnificent Seven”), green-skinned Amazon Gamora (Zoe Saldana of “Colombiana”), blue-skinned hulk Drax (Dave Bautista of “Spectre”), and pugnacious Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper’s voice) tangle with this cartoonish thing atop a platform where the batteries are housed that resembles an electric razor. During this far-fetched fracas, Baby Groot dances to Star-Lord’s mix tape oblivious to any peril the fire-breathing trout-squid poses while the Guardians struggle to slay their nemesis. The scene is clever because Gunn choreographs this blockbuster action with Baby Groot in the foreground rather than the contentious Guardians! Afterward, the grateful Sovereigns reward our heroes with nothing less than Gamora’s deceitful sister Nebula! No sooner have our heroes proven their nerve to the Sovereigns than they find themselves in trouble with them. The contemptuous Rocket has taken it upon himself to steal some of those valuable batteries.

The incensed Sovereigns deployed a drone fleet to annihilate the Guardians.

Conveniently, Peter Quill’s biological father Ego (Kurt Russell of “The Hateful 8") intervenes and saves them from the Sovereigns. Ego invites Quill, Gamora, and Drax to accompany him to his planet, while Rocket, Baby Groot,

and Nebula stay behind to repair their crashed spacecraft.

Meantime, the haughty Sovereign High Priestess Ayesha (Elizabeth Debicki of “The Great Gatsby”) hires arrow-whistling Ravager chieftain Yondu Udonta (Michael Rooker of “The Belk Experiment”) to track down the Guardians. What Yondu doesn’t know is a perfidious faction within his gang of smugglers has been plotting mutiny.

Yondu’s grotesque lieutenant, Taserface (Chris Sullivan of “Imperium”), sparks this uprising. After they catch up with Rocket, Baby Groot, and Nebula, the mutinous Ravagers turn on Yondu and lock him up with Rocket. Nevertheless, Yondu and Rocket aren’t idle behind bars for long because Baby Groot helps them to escape. Mind you, Yondu was

already up to his ears in trouble with the rest of the Ravagers and their commander, Stakar Ogord (Sylvester Stallone of “Rocky”), who turned against him for kidnapping Peter Quill in the first place. If you saw the original “G0TG,” you know Star-Lord tricked Yondu when he relinquished the Orb. The wily Star-Lord replaced the Infinity Stone that had been in the Orb with a grinning troll doll. Yondu had payback in mind when he sold his services to the Sovereigns, but then everything went sideways for him. Nevertheless, once Rocket, Baby Groot, and he escape, Yondu eliminates their adversaries with his whistling arrow.

The major revelation of the “Guardians” sequel concerns the character of Ego. Kurt Russel looks like he had a blast playing this murderous Celestial being who is essentially a manifestation of a psychedelic planet that Ego created for himself. Basically, he is a selfish amoral deity who behaves like the Greek god Zeus. During their brief stint on the planet, Peter and Ego begin on friendly terms until Ego slips up and reveals something appalling that alienates Peter. With its sumptuous CGI of alien galaxies and landscapes, “GoTG, Vol. 2” looks a hundred times better visually than its predecessor. If you enjoyed the greatest hits music in the original film, the sequel serves up even more memorable pop tunes and incorporates them into the psychology of the plot, too! As the fifteenth entry in the Marvel Comics Cinematic Universe, the tongue-in-cheek “Guardians of the Galaxy, Volume 2” ranks as one of the best.

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

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

15

>>> E V E N T S THURSDAY, JUNE 15 Green Bar presents The Dexateens WHEN: 10:30 pm - 11:59 pm COST: $10 WHERE: Green Bar 2350 4th St Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 366-0913 LINK: http://greenbarttown.com/ DESCRIPTION: Back from only God knows where comes the triumphant return of the seminal garage, indie, country, punk, yet Alabama rock-n-roll collective, the Dexateens. The torch carriers of ‘Blue Collar Rock’ are proud to announce their first official release in over four years and their sophomore offering on Cornelius Chapel Records, the label started by the band and run by extended band family. The ‘teens are proudly contrived of a cabinet maker, a carpenter (or two at times), multiple restaurant and bar employees, and one fulltime Drive-By Trucker.

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 handcarved 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!

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 Cooter Brown playing at Rhythm & Brews WHEN: 8:00pm-12:00am COST: WHERE: Band of Brothers Brewing Company 1605 23rd Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-7181 LINK: http://rhythmnbrews.com/ DESCRIPTION: Cooter Brown will be playing music on Thursday, June 15th, 2017 at Rhythm & Brews.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 Bama Theater presents Acoustic Night featuring Rock Killough WHEN: 7:30pm-9:30pm COST: $10 WHERE: Bama Theatre 600 Greensboro Ave Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 758-5195 LINK: http://bamatheatre.org/ DESCRIPTION: The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa will present noted singer/ songwriter Rock Killough in concert on Acoustic Night, June 17, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.

The event will take place at the Bama Theatre’s Greensboro Room with doors opening at 7 p.m. Cover charge is $10.

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 John Elliot & Kelly McFarling at Green Bar WHEN: 10:30am -12:00am COST:free WHERE:Green Bar 2350 4th St Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 366-0913 LINK: http://greenbarttown.com/ DESCRIPTION: -John Elliott writes gripping stream-of-consciousness songs that often take unexpected turns en route to delivering a powerful message. A native of Minnesota who now resides in California, Elliott began playing at various Hollywood venues in 2001, had expanded throughout southern California by 2003, and later became an international touring artist.

-Kelly McFarling is an Atlanta, GA born, San Francisco-based songwriter. Her work is reflective of transitions, the wilderness, and its navigation. Sometimes she plays banjo, other times acoustic guitar. Often, she plays a Telecaster fronting her band, The Home Team, featuring pedal steel (Tim Marcus), drums (Nick Cobbett), bass (Oscar Westesson), and various other Bay Area musicians.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24 Tyrese to Perform at The Amp WHEN: 6:00pm-12:00am COST: $25-$79 WHERE:Tuscaloosa Amphitheater 2710 Jack Warner Parkway Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-5280 LINK:http://www.tuscaloosaamphitheater. com/ DESCRIPTION: Five-time Grammy nominee Tyrese will perform at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater June 24. Gates will open at 6 p.m., the show will start at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $25.00 to $79.50, and go on sale at 10 a.m., Friday, May 5. You may purchase tickets at the amphitheater box office, through Ticketmaster, or by calling 800-745-3000. In 1998, his self-titled album went platinum with the singles Nobody Else, Lately, and Sweet Lady, earning him his first Grammy nomination in the Best R&B Male Vocal Performance.. He became busy with TV and film roles before releasing other popular albums in between 2002 and the present. He is also an accomplished author, and will be releasing his third book soon.

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 U.S. band playing at Rhythm & Brews WHEN: 8:00pm-12:00am COST: WHERE: Band of Brothers Brewing Company 1605 23rd Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 248-7181 LINK: http://rhythmnbrews.com/ DESCRIPTION: A band called U.S. will be playing at Rhythm & Brews on June 16th, 2017.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25 Trucks By The Tracks At Band Of Brothers Brewing Co WHEN: 1:00pm- 6:00pm COST: $10 WHERE: Band of Brothers Brewing Company 1605 23rd Avenue Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PHONE: (205) 246-2569 LINK: https//www.facebook.com/brewingbro thers/?rf=528097770684009 DESCRIPTION: Join Band Of Brothers Brewing Co. Sunday, June 25th and enjoy Trucks By The Tracks with your favorite food trucks. Band of Brothers is hosting Local Roots, Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ, SouthFresh Mobile Catfish Kitchen, Pastor's Kitchen, Get Mix'd and more! GREAT beer, live music and good company - who could ask for more? Tell a friend to tell a friend. Event Schedule 12:30 PM - Band of Brothers Brewery Open 1 PM - Food trucks Open 2 PM - Live Music!

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 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

16

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

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

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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!

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>>> 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

NASHVILLE

ATLANTA

Friday, June 16 Avondale Brewing Company//Yacht Rock Revue Zydeco//Dylan Scott w/ Hunter Phelps Jazzi’s on 3rd//Friday Unwind

Thursday, June 15 Ascend Amphitheater//Third Eye Blind w/ Silversun Pickups

Friday, June 16 Verizon Amphitheatre//Luke Bryan Verizon Amphitheatre//2017 Country Megaticket

Friday, June 16 Schermerhorn Symphony Center//Dreamworks Animation in Concert

Saturday, June 17 Legacy Arena at the BJCC//Gladys Knight Bennie Mac Live In Mo Fo Head

Saturday, June 17 Ryman Auditorium//Dan TDM

Sunday, June 18 The Alabama Theatre//Paper Moon

Monday, June 19 Workplay Theatre//The Davis Little Expansion Project Wednesday, June 21 Iron City//The Molly Ringwalds

Thursday, June 22 Iron City//Dispatch, America, Location Tour

Friday, June 23 Iron City//Sister Hazel The Alabama Theatre//Whatever Happened to Baby Jane Saturday, June 24 Saturn//Surfer Blood The Forge//Fates Warning

Sunday, June 25 The Alabama Theatre//Cabaret

Tuesday, June 20 Marathon Music Works//Blackbear

Thursday, June 22 Carl Black Chevy Woods Amphitheatre//Collecive Soul, Our Lady Peace 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill//ZZ Ward Ryman Auditorium//Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman Friday, June 23 Ryman Auditorium//Hillsong United Ascend Amphitheater//Lindsey Buckingham and Christine McVie

Saturday, June 24 Andrew Jackson Theater//The Princess Bride Nissian Stadium//Monster Jam Ryman Auditorium//Punch Brothers Ascend Amphitheater//The Music of Led Zeppelin The Basement East//Ron Funches

Sunday, June 25 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill//Robert Randolph and The Family Band

Thursday, June 29 Saturn//The Wailers

Tuesday, June 27 Ascend Amphitheater//Chicago and The Doobie Brothers Andrew Jackson Theater//Something Rotten

Friday, June 30 The Alabama Theatre//Independence Day Thursday, July 6 Sloss Furnace//Blac Youngsta

Saturday, June 17 Verizon Amphitheatre//Luke Bryan CNN Omni Atlanta Hotel//Ivan Amodei’s Intimate Illusions Chastain Park Amphitheater//Gipsy Kings Saturday, June 18 Atlanta Botanical Garden//Gladys Knight Coca – Cola Roxy Theatre//T.I.

Thursday, June 22 Wolf Creek Amphitheater//Jermaine Dupri

Friday, June 23 Verizon Amphitheatre//Chicago and the Doobie Brothers Cobb Energy Performing Arts//Gregory Porter Center Stage//Cece Winans Atlanta Symphony Hall//Chris Botti Saturday, June 24 The Frederick Brown//Paul Anka Chastain Park Amphitheater//Dispatch, America, Location 12 Tour

Sunday, June 25 Infinite Energy Center//Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull & CNCO Chastain Park Amphitheater//Sheryl Crow Tuesday, June 27 Chastain Park Amphitheater//John Mellencamp The Masquerade//Chastity Belt

Thursday, June 29 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill//Jerrod Niemann Plus Russell Dickerson

Saturday, July 8 Oak Mountain Amphitheatre//Journey

Sunday, July 2 Schermerhorn symphony Center//Travis Tritt, Marshall Tucker Band

Monday, July 10 Lyric Theatre//Welcome to the Night Vale

Friday, July 6 Schermerhorn Symphony Center//La La Land In Concert

Friday, July 15 Sloss Furnace and Arts Festival

Saturday, July 7 Ryman Auditorium//Yonder Mountain String Band Schermerhorn Symphony Center//Annie Moses Band Sunday, July 9 Ryman Auditorium//Jill Scott

Monday, July 10 Grand Ole Opry House//Dancing with Stars Birmingham//Saturn//The Wailers

Wednesday, July 12 Bridgestone Arena//James Taylor & Bonnie Raitt

Birmingham//Ascend Amphitheater//Third Eye Blind w/ Silversun Pickups

Thursday, July 13 Schermerhorn Symphony Center//The O’Jay

>>> 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

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

19

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

Across 1. Augmentation (abbr.)

5. Rounded mass 9. Absolutely must 14. CD alternative 15. Early state for presidential hopefuls 16. Pharmaceutical liquids 17. Concise, like a sketch 19. Pay a call on 20. Nobelist Arafat 21. Winger or Messing 23. United States Uncle 25. '50s TV cultural series 30. Freud, e.g.

33. Not a beginner 35. Like lumber in a mill 36. Antique photo tone 37. Hindi bread 39. Stocking material 42. Spout angrily 43. Greek alphabet ender 45. Was in the hole 47. Koop, Satcher and Elders (abbr.)

48. One with a limited vocabulary?

52. One place to be judged 53. Part of USNA (abbr.)

54. Races on a strip 57. Place to get Seoul food 61. Boosted in volume 65. Unstable 67. Pepper whose leaves are chewed 68. Watched 69. Menlo Park middle name 70. Finished napping 71. Also-____ (losers) 72. The Florida ____

SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMANIA CROSSWORD ON PAGE 21

20

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

Down 1. The ___ Bitty Book Light 2. Okinawa capital 3. Computer guts 4. Lax 5. Word with rummy or cotton 6. "Get a ____ of that!"

7. Scrape, to a tot 8. Early Pacific sighter 9. Some cigars 10. EPA stat 11. Hi starter?

12. Mai ____ 13. Direction, in Deutschland 18. Sounds like a donkey 22. '70s White House monogram 24. Footwear giant Thom ____ 26. "The Sopranos" actor Robert 27. Heart operation 28. "That's ___your head!"

29. Sports figures 30. Packing a punch 31. Rand McNally abbreviation 32. Simmering 33. Advertising ploy 34. Kind of numeral 38. Scientist's helper of film 40. Scream of pain 41. Inert element 44. Something to be as fit as 46. 16th-century circumnavigator 49. A long way 50. Spirits lifter 51. "Slavonic Dances" composer Antonin 55. Prado artist 56. British rifle 58. Antagonize 59. Be jealous of 60. Old Turkish VIPs 61. Atty.'s org.

62. Feline sound 63. Fed. org. for inventors 64. Cartoon cry 66. Gridiron stat

>>> 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 Finances may need careful handling in the days ahead. While you could get lucky and find a bargain, it would be wise to check that you're getting as good a deal as you think you are. Whatever you buy, it would be smart to keep receipts in case you need to return it. This might not be the best time to apply for a loan or more credit, as you could encounter difficulties. However, the situation seems a little more flexible next week.

Mercury in Gemini makes an awkward angle to Neptune in your professional sector, so a mixed message or slip of the tongue could cause problems unless it's nipped in the bud. It would be smart to check that others understand what you're saying, particularly those in positions of authority. At the same time, you might need to be very adaptable if you need to handle someone who resists your ideas. But with gentle persuasion, next week could be a different story.

Responsibilities and tasks could be piling up and you could be feeling overwhelmed. If this is the case, the stars encourage you to take a step back and carefully review your situation. If it's possible to delegate any of your tasks, consider doing so. This could be the easiest way to take the pressure off. And letting go of those tasks that really don't achieve anything can also help you feel more relaxed and at peace.

If your confidence dips, it's only temporary. This influence could leave you feeling like it isn't worth socializing or hanging out with your best friends, but nothing could be further from the truth. The people you know will love to see you. You just need to give them a call or show up. This passing phase is nothing to be anxious about, as some good company will quickly boost your spirits. Reflection can help if a deep-seated issue needs a solution.

This week, Neptune, your planet of relating, turns retrograde for some months, and this could make you a lot more sensitive and aware of the influences around you. If you've been in denial about any issues, this can be your opportunity to notice that and do something about it. It won't happen overnight, but gradually you'll notice a pattern or get insights that prove useful to you in a number of ways. Make time for work and family in equal measure.

If you're eager to make headway on a deal or key matter, it helps to be as flexible and adaptable as possible. In addition, make sure that you understand the gist of any leading conversations, as with Mercury angling toward Neptune, things that ought to be clear may not be. Also, any misunderstandings could be the reason you don't feel inclined to cooperate. Many things can begin to shift and change the better once you can see more clearly.

With Mars moving farther into your sector of travel and adventure, this can be an exciting time for you. The urge to explore new options could be very powerful. You may be proactive in making travel plans, signing up for classes, and stepping outside your comfort zone. But you might need to be a bit more careful about financial matters, as delays could snarl up your cash flow. On the other hand, you could be too careful, and some leeway might help.

A lovely lineup on Tuesday could encourage you to take the plunge with a group or community project. If you do, it could be a lot of fun. Meanwhile, Mercury makes other aspects that could cause misunderstandings and encourage you to take a stubborn approach to someone's suggestion. Whatever occurs over coming days, try not to take any of it too personally. There is a strong likelihood that it will all blow over by next week.

There could be some aspects of your everyday life in which you're trying too hard to accomplish something. This tendency could cause you to feel a little bit exasperated with a plan or project that seems to be stalling. The trick to getting it right may be to stand back and go with the flow for a while. If you can do this, you may find that new and creative ideas come to you that allow your work to proceed more satisfactorily.

As Mars continues to move through your health and lifestyle sector, you may feel motivated to make changes to your daily routines. This might involve revamping your diet or exercise routine or rescheduling activities so you have more time to relax and have fun. You could find that your ideas clash with a friend's, which could put a bit of distance between you. Try not to be anxious, though, as all of this will likely blow over by next week.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Your schedule could be a little bit top heavy, with work taking precedence. However, with a strong focus on home and family affairs, you might feel better if you could strike a balance. Do you really need to attend to all those responsibilities right now? If some of them can wait, put them in your schedule for next week or another time. The chance to be with close ones and enjoy some downtime is important to your happiness this week.

This could be one of those weeks when you may not be able to get as much done as you'd like, so it would help to pace yourself. Some of the key issues could involve mixed messages or somebody stubbornly refusing to grant a request or help you out. While this can seem very frustrating over the days ahead, it's a temporary situation. You may find that many things will sort themselves out if you can be patient until next week.

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JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

21

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

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

THE ART OF MATT DAUGHERTY

ERIKA WADE// THE ALABAMA

“Dark Patriot,” an exhibit featuring the work of Matt Daugherty, will be displayed at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center July 7-28, 2017. The exhibit, consisting of acrylic paintings, will be displayed in The Arts Council Gallery.

Don’t let the zip code fool you.

Despite living in Los Angeles, writer Erika E. Wade is a proud Southern girl who isn’t afraid to remind anyone that thinks otherwise. Granted, her long exposure to the West Coast doesn’t make it very easy. Wade, who recently celebrated her first “LA-Versary”, joked that she’s slowly losing her accent.

FEATURED IN JULY EXHIBIT

An opening reception will be held on July 7, 2017 from 5-8 p.m. during First Friday. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public.

“Dark patriot is a body of paintings that explores American political extremisms and the connection between religion, the entertainment industry and political influences,” said Daugherty. The exhibit takes the viewer through the divided American political landscape and the seeming lack of moderate politics by way of the artist’s exploration of conspiracy theories and propaganda from both the political left and right.

As Daugherty dove into nontraditional media outlets via the internet, he found himself fascinated by stories making claims with the intent of swaying public opinion. “These conspiracy theories appear to me to be fantastic science fiction. In all honesty, I do have moments where I think ‘maybe.’ ” That "maybe" state of mind is where the artist begins. He views these paintings as less of a personal visual diatribe of his own beliefs and more of an exploration of fantastic stories presented as

truth and how that trickles down to an individual’s vote.

Matt Daugherty received his BFA from The University of Alabama in 2000. He has exhibited his work at the Gadsden Center of Cultural Arts, The Sella-Granata Gallery and at Grace Aberdean Habitat Alchemy. He is a life-long resident of Alabama and resides in Tuscaloosa with his daughter Olivia.

The Arts Council Gallery is open weekdays 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. with free admission.

The Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center is located at 620 Greensboro Avenue in Downtown Tuscaloosa. For more information about the CAC, The Arts Council or Bama Theatre, patrons should LIKE the Facebook page “The Arts Council – Bama Theatre – Cultural Arts Center” and follow tuscarts on Twitter. Call 205-758-5195 or visit tuscarts.org for further information.

PLAYWRIGHT THAT KEEPS IT REAL

Nonetheless, Wade’s love of Alabama rests not only in her heart but in her wallet. Between the folds is a constant reminder of home, a credit card, immortalized with her paisley Chuck Taylors on a sidewalk in Dolomite.

In August, the Alabama-native makes her playwright debut in The Rhythm & Da Blues, a one-woman performance led by Wade, at the 13th Street Repertory Company in New York City.

The play is set to run from Aug 24-27.

The show originated as a MFA thesis during her time at the Savannah School of Art and Design. While drafting the story, Wade realized that she should test her writing abilities. As an aspiring screenwriter, Wade decided to create something of performance quality. “No one is really out here reading scripts anymore,” Wade explained “As much as we want them to, it’s just not how it works.”

In the summer of 2016, Wade premiered an earlier version of the production, catching the attention of theater executives. Before the year ended, she secured a four-day residency in the Big Apple.

The Rhythm & Da Blues centers around Lena, a writer raised amongst a family of storytellers. At a young age, she discovers her Uncle has transitioned into Miss B. Darling, a confident and business-savvy transwoman. Equip with talent but lacking a voice, the young writer enlists the help of Darling to find her groove.

“Now, we call people transgendered, but our parent’s generation didn’t define themselves as transgendered,” Wade said. “They just identified as ‘This is not right. I don’t feel right being a man.

That’s not right; I am a woman.”

Though the play drew inspiration from Wade’s life, she was reluctant to divulge which parts are autobiographical.

While writing the play, she internally battled with what should and shouldn’t be placed in the coming of age story.

Ultimately, it was her mom that put her anxiety at bay. “’Do what you have to do to make it real,’” Wade said, quoting her mother. “’We love you. You’ve been writing about us your whole life; we’re not

22

JUNE 14 + JUNE 28

going to turn on you.’ She gave me the green light.” Born and raised in Fairfield, Alabama, Wade initially wanted to follow in the footsteps of her mother and become a lawyer. However, her love for writing blossomed in middle school.

Wade’s skills didn’t go unnoticed. One of her teachers saw the potential and encouraged her to write more frequently, stating the she could make a career out of it one day.

“In those areas, you’re not known to be a writer,” Wade said. “You’re a police officer, a firefighter, or a nurse or a social worker. Those are all great professions, but I knew that just wasn’t where I should be.”

Throughout the show, Wade is tasked with juggling 12 characters.

It’s a daunting challenge when you’re expected to deliver a dozen eclectic personalities without any formal theatrical training. Additionally, all her rehearsals are done via Skype.

Despite it all, the California transplant said it plays to her advantage. The performance is meant to be organic, not methodized.

“I just try to be real and to just tell the truth and not hide anything under these layers of what a performance should be, but just to do the work,” Wade said. “If I sit in each character and I get to know them as I know them in my heart, it will translate.”

Per Wade, the one-woman production is ultimately a story of identity and the journey of self-discovery.

“It’s okay to not know who and what you are at a point in your life. I think we are so focused on “I need to know what my lane is’ or ‘I need to know what my passion is’ or ‘I need to be doing this at this point in my life’ but we evolve every day. “We writers are always told that if our characters don’t go through change, they aren’t real. Why can’t we do that in performance? Why can’t characters, especially black women, who can be fearless but also fearful? Who can be aggressive, but also kind of passive and vulnerable. Who can be amazingly loud, but not say a single word.”

While The Rhythm & The Blues hasn’t officially debuted, Wade said she is in talks to perform in Los Angeles. There is no word on an Alabama show, but she remains hopeful.

“We can have another image besides the civil rights movement, besides slavery, besides poverty or whatever stereotypes people have about Alabama or backwoods stuff,” Wade said.

“We’re lively. We love culture.”

>>> 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

ALABAMA FOOTBALL // WHERE THINGS STAND WITH TIDE RECRUITING

W

hat's wrong with Alabama's recruiting? We hear that question asked almost daily. The Tide has only three public commitments in the 2018 class, and that is of concern to some fans. But where things stand right now is no surprise. We've been saying since February that Alabama would be more methodical in its approach to taking commitments in this class.

Bottom line is that there is nothing wrong with Bama's recruiting. This is not the stretch run. It's only June, and things are moving along as planned. The Tide will get some more commitments this summer. But I expect several spots to remain open as the process moves into the fall. Regardless, confidence is very high that Bama will land another top-notch class.

Following last week's first summer camp, some shuffling will take place on the Tide's recruiting board this week.

With that said, here are a few recruiting tidbits, including some notes from the camp.

WADDLE FLASHED MAJOR SKILLS Last Monday morning, there was a lot of buzz around Tuscaloosa was about receiver/kick returner Jaylen Waddle of Bellaire-Episcopal, TX. The 5-10, 170-pounder doesn't have great size, but he showed off the chart skills at Bama. Waddle showed hands, speed, quickness, elusiveness, acceleration and route running that led some to suggest that he's an Amari Cooper type talent. Obviously, he's not as big as Cooper, but Waddle has major skills.

It was not his first trip to Tuscaloosa. He also visited last summer. He's become acquainted with Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts and some other Texas natives on the team.

That might become helpful to Bama. Right now, some think Texas leads. Waddle told Tider Insider that he planned to see how a few teams perform this season before he made a decision.

We continue to believe Alabama is in great shape with the state's top receiver, Justyn Ross of Phenix CityCentral. Ross ranks as one of best WRs in the country.

Here is an update on standout WR Tommy Bush of Schertz-Samuels Clemens, TX. The 6-4, 190-pounder wrapped up a tour of the Southeast last week with a stop at Bama, which he called a "fantastic" visit. Bush has over 40 offers. He said that he would take his time in making a decision. Bush expects to speak with Tide OC Brian Daboll again this week.

Alabama already has a commitment from star receiver Xavier Williams of Hollywood-Chaminade-Madonna, FL. TOP RUNNING BACK HAD AMAZING VISIT Alabama has been making a move on the nation's top running back, Zamir White of Laurinburg-Scotland County, NC. Nick Saban supposedly loves this kid and has made him a very high priority. White had an amazing visit to Alabama last week and the feeling is that the Tide is in strong contention. Georgia and Ohio State have been the other top contenders. The Buckeyes landed a commitment on Sunday from Tennessee standout RB Master Teague, who camped at Bama but was not offered.

The state's top RB is Asa Martin of Decatur-Austin.

Alabama wants one RB in this class, but would take both White and Martin. Martin had an excellent camp at

Bama. He plans to choose between Alabama, Auburn and Florida in August. The Tide appears to be in good shape.

BAMA IN GREAT SHAPE WITH BIG LINEMAN Keep an eye on offensive lineman Penei Sewell (64, 350) of St. George-Desert Hills, Utah. Sewell and his parents were in Tuscaloosa last week. They had a blowout visit. Sewell was dominant in camp. We feel very good about Alabama's chances here. Tosh Lupoi has done a great job of putting Bama in position with this mammoth prospect.

BROWN DOMINATED CAMP Defensive line is a very high priority in Bama's 2018 class. Keep an eye on Bobby Brown of Arlington-Lamar, TX. The 6-4, 284-pounder showed out at Bama's camp.

Brown loved the camp and everything about Alabama.

The presence of former prep teammate Chris Owens, a Bama redshirt freshman OL, might help with Brown. The two spent a lot of time together last week. Brown has several offers. We feel very good about Bama's chances as of now. Brown will decide on November 2.

Bama was hoping to get an in-depth look at defensive lineman Jalen Cunningham of Odenville-St. Clair County, AL. Unfortunately, Cunningham has been battling some turf toe and could not participate. Look for him to return to camp later this summer. One positive is that the 6-4 Cunningham has supposedly dropped about 20 pounds and is now about 340.

Alabama has made some recent in-roads with standouts Darnell Jeffries (6-3, 275) of Covington-Newton, GA and Ron Tatum (6-4, 260, 4.7) of Putnam City, OK. Tatum is committed to Texas, but the UA staff has had some productive conversations lately with the quick DL.

A BAMA SWEEP IN GEORGIA? With the commitment last week of athletic linebacker Quay Walker (6-4, 220) of Cordele, Georgia, Alabama is in position to sweep the duo that some consider to be the best defensive players in Georgia in this class. Bama is the strong favorite for elite linebacker J.J. Peterson (6-2, 215) of Moultrie-Colquitt County.

SECONDARY IS A PRIORITY Secondary ranks up there with DL as a high priority in this class. Bama is in great position to land Jalyn ArmourDavis of Mobile-St. Paul's. Armour-Davis appeared set to announce for Alabama a few weeks ago. We think he will eventually pull the trigger. Armour-Davis, a top corner, is a versatile player who could fill multiple roles in the secondary.

Keep an eye on LSU corner/safety commit Kelvin Joseph of Baton Rouge-Scotlandville. Joseph has long been entertaining thoughts of Alabama. He was in Tuscaloosa for camp and everything seemed to go very well. Joseph is drawing comparisons to former LSU star safety Jamal Adams.

Alabama feels that it is in the mix with elite corner Patrick Surtain of Plantation-American Heritage, FL. Nick Saban led a group of Tide coaches to a camp held at Florida International on Saturday to see Surtain and his prep teammate, Tyson Campbell, another highly-regarded corner. FSU and LSU are heavily in the mix with Surtain.

Another top corner at the FIU camp was MiamiColumbus standout Joshua Jobe, a Miami commit. Even though Jobe reaffirmed his commitment to Miami back in the spring, Alabama is still a threat to flip him.

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