PLANET WEEKLY A DAY GAME SPECIAL EDITION! ROLL TIDE ROLL!

Roll Tide Roll!

// IN THIS ISSUE >> UP-TO-DATE RESTAURANT LISTINGS

›› CELTIC WOMEN ›› GOLDEN FLAKE A-DAY ›› PULL APART GARLIC BREAD ›› BEER & WINE REVIEW ›› A QUIET PLACE ›› HIGH TIDE SPORTS >>> VISIT US ON THE WEB @ THEPLANETWEEKLY.COM

APR 19 + MAY 2

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

inside

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>>> planetweeklyissue560

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ENTERTAINMENT 5 CHAMBER NEWS 6 BOOK REVIEW

PUBLISHER

L I N DA W. J OHN SON publisher@theplanetweekly.com

MANAGING EDITOR

W I L L I AM B A R SHOP

GRAPHIC DESIGNER EVE TEMONIA

EVENTS

C H A S E DY E R

ROAD TRIP

T R E Y B R OOK S

RESTAURANT GUIDE DOC FRANKENSTEIN

PRODUCTION EVE TEMONIA

IMAGES

Images: Creative Common License unless otherwise credited.

9 BEER/WINE REVIEWS

ADVERTISING 205.792.7 239

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 ELIZABETH MOSELEY BRETT REID VA N R O B E R T S JON ROGERS RACHEL STEINER ALEJANDRA TENORIO

Planet Weekly P. O . B o x 2 3 1 5 Tuscaloosa, AL 35403 Phone: 205.792.7239 Email: publisher@theplanetweek ly.com Please direct correspondence to: publisher@theplanetweekly.com The Planet Weekly is a proud member of The West Alabama Chamber of Commerce. © 2015 All rights reserved. THE PLANET WEEKLY is a registered trademark.

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

22 STORIES

10 RESTAURANT GUIDE 14 PET PLANET 15 MOVIE REVIEWS

4 CELTIC WOMEN // ALLEN SCULLEY

“The Irish have always had a strong cultural base rooted in song and storytelling.

And while the tradition is often steeped in images of cable-knit sweaters and caps, pennywhistle, reels and jigs, Celtic Woman has spent the past decade-plus serving as a musical crossroads where tradition gets a contemporary spin.”

6 PULL APART GARLIC BREAD // RACHEL PAXTON

“Until not very long ago, I didn't even know that pull apart bread was a thing! I've had monkey bread before, in all its cinnamon glory, but I didn't know you could make all different kinds of pull apart breads. This garlic pull apart bread is very easy to make, and makes a great addition to any home cooked meal.”

7 GOLDEN FLAKE // A-DAY

“The Alabama Golden Flake A-Day Game, scheduled for a 1 p.m. (CT) kick on April 21 at Bryant-Denny Stadium, will include a full day of activities and experiences, including the opportunity for fans to take the field at the conclusion of the game.”

22 “RECRUITING TIDBITS” // HIGH TIDE SPORTS

16 FEATURE 19 ROAD TRIP CONCERTS & EVENTS 20 PUZZLEMANIA / EDITORIAL CARTOON 21 HOROSCOPE

HIGH TIDE SPORTS 23

TIDE SPORTS GARY HARRIS

“A lot of prospects were reported to be unofficially visiting Tuscaloosa this past weekend.

Unofficial visits are always subject to change. Bad weather in the Tuscaloosa area might have prevented some from visiting, but several highly-regarded prospects did make it.”

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

APR 19 + MAY 2

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

CELTIC WOMAN // VOICES OF ANGELS

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he Irish have always had a strong cultural base rooted in song and storytelling. And while the tradition is often steeped in images of cable-knit sweaters and caps, pennywhistle, reels and jigs, Celtic Woman has spent the past decade-plus serving as a musical crossroads where tradition gets a contemporary spin.

It’s been that way ever since David Kavanagh, Sharon Browne and David Downes founded the group as a quintet in 2004, eventually having it evolve into a quartet.

With Downes being the former musical director of “Riverdance,” it’s no surprise that Celtic Woman became a glittery distillation of Irish culture, thanks to a Vegas-worthy stage show packed with plenty of costume changes, step dancing, bagpipes, a choir and plenty of orchestration.

Since its inception, Celtic Woman has sold millions of albums globally and raised boatloads of cash for PBS during the network’s annual fundraising drives. For vocalist Susan McFadden, who replaced founding member Lisa Kelly in 2012, the success of the group was rather eye-opening when she first joined. Up to that point, she’d been performing in revivals of “Grease,” “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and “Legally Blonde” on London’s West End. McFadden’s pathway to Celtic Woman came via friendships she had with former members Kelly and Chloë Agnew, both of whom she’d worked with on other musical theater productions.

“I didn’t know a whole lot about Celtic Woman. I’d been living in the UK and performing in musical theater in London in the West End. I knew Lisa Kelly from years ago.

We’d worked together actually when I was a teenager. We’d done a show in Dublin many years ago and I knew Chloë Agnew from when she was a baby,” she recalled. “I worked with her mother when I was 11 in a production of “Annie” where I played the title role and her mother played Miss Hannigan. From the two of them

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and social media, I was able to see and learn about Celtic Woman.

I saw that they were part of this show that was seemingly massive in America and touring all over the country in these amazing venues.

Then the call came out of the blue to join them. I thought that was weird, but Chloë and Lisa had actually put my name forward when the time came that they were looking for a new member.”

By the time McFadden joined, Celtic Woman had built their outof-the-box success into a firmly established career. The original lineup’s self-titled first concert DVD sold more than a million copies, while the group’s companion selftitled first studio album topped “Billboard” magazine’s World Music chart for a record-setting 81 weeks.

Celtic Woman has gone on to release a steady string of popular studio albums and concert DVDs – often paired together and released simultaneously (such as the 2007 studio CD, “A New Journey,” and a concert DVD, “A New Journey: Live at Slane Castle, Ireland,” and 2012’s “Believe” studio album and concert DVD). In all, Celtic Woman has sold more than nine million CDs and DVDs. Like prior tours, this year’s production has a theme, which in

this case is the idea of home. For this go-round, the group is using “Celtic Woman: Homecoming Live from Ireland,” the group’s recently released live album, as a touchstone for the fans who come out to see the foursome. It’s all very exciting for McFadden, who has grown to love visiting different far-flung locales with fellow singers Máiréad Carlin and Eabha McMahon and violinist Tara McNeill and the rest of the Celtic Woman crew, who have become a second family to her. The fact that she gets to travel with Anthony Byrne, who is her husband and also plays bagpipes in the production, is an added bonus.

“We have a lot of new songs in this show that we’ve never performed before because these are brandnew songs for Celtic Woman.

They’re all very much based around the theme of homecoming and songs that I think we can really relate to because we do spend so much time away from home.

They’re really nice songs to sing and perform because they’re all relating to coming back to our homeland and what we miss about it,” she said. “So these are some really special songs and of course, [people can expect] the fan favorites and some other kind of newer songs from our “Voices

of Angels” (2016) and “Destiny” (2015) albums, along with the latest one, Homecoming, as well.

But there are a lot of brand-new songs that have never been performed by Celtic Woman, which we’re really excited about.”

While purists may bristle at the way Celtic Woman presents Irish culture to the masses, McFadden is rightly proud of the legacy she and the other ladies in this musical sorority have created. It gibes perfectly for the Dubliner who grew up enthralled by powerful pop vocalists like Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and Celine Dion, while also hailing from a family with deep Gaelic roots.

“We’re all very different and we are all from very different musical backgrounds, but we come together to create a very unique sound,” McFadden explained.

“What I like about Celtic Woman is that we take really old, traditional Irish songs and bring them into the 21st Century and we make them appeal to all ages by putting a different twist on it. That’s how I like to think of it. Taking older songs and putting a modern twist on them and then taking newer songs and putting an Irish stamp on them.”

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

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

NEWS JUNIOR AMBASSADOR PROGRAM SEEKING HOST FAMILIES A Junior Ambassador program will bring 20 Chinese middle school students to Tuscaloosa from July 22-August 3. The program is seeking host families, and will match with students his or her age and gender. During the program, the children will attend programs and field trips at the Capitol School. For more information or to obtain an application for the Junior Ambassador Program, call the Chamber at (205) 758-7588.

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APR 19 + MAY 2

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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

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

PULL APART GARLIC BREAD TRUMAN CAPOTE'S SOUTHERN YEARS, 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

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ntil not very long ago, I didn't even know that pull apart bread was a thing! I've had monkey bread before, in all its cinnamon glory, but I didn't know you could make all different kinds of pull apart breads.

This garlic pull apart bread is very easy to make, and makes a great addition to any home cooked meal.

Ingredients: 1 c. warm water 2 tbsp. sugar 2 tsp. active dry yeast 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened 1 c. milk 2 1/2 tsp. salt 6 c. flour

STORIES FROM A MONROEVILLE COUSIN MARIANNE M. MOATES, FOREWORD BY RALPH F. VOSS

ABOUT THE BOOK

Topping: 8 tbsp. butter, melted 1/4 c. fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 4 tsp. dried) 2 tbsp. fresh oregano (or 1 tsp. dried oregano) 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tsp. salt garlic pull apart bread Place warm water in a mixing bowl. Water should be very warm (hot tap water) but not boiling. The temperature should be between 110-115 degrees F. Sprinkle yeast and sugar on top of water. Let sit 5 to 10 minutes, until yeast looks foamy.

Mix in softened butter, milk, salt, and 3 c. flour. Stir in rest of flour.

Using dough hook on a stand mixer, knead for 7 to 10 minutes. If you don't have a mixer, you can knead it by hand. I use a KitchenAid stand mixer for making homemade breads and rolls.

Divide dough into two equal portions (this recipe makes 2 loaves bread).

Mix melted butter, parsley, oregano, garlic, and salt in a small bowl.

With a sharp knife, cut dough into approximately 1 inch pieces. Form each piece into the shape of a ball.

Dip each ball into the melted butter mixture and then divide the balls between two greased loaf pans.

Cover loaf pans with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 30 minutes, until golden brown.

Sprinkle with salt before serving.

Readers are well acquainted with Truman Capote’s meteoric rise to fame and his metamorphosis from literary enfant terrible to literary genius, celebrity author, and dispenser of venomously comic witticisms. It is also well-known that he spent his formative years in the south Alabama hamlet of Monroeville, and that he was abandoned there by his mother to be cared for and then to care for elderly relatives. Yet details of those years have remained sketchy and vague.

In Monroeville young Capote formed significant bonds and played childhood games with his cousin, Jennings Faulk Carter, and next door neighbor, Nelle Harper Lee, author of "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "Go Set a Watchman."

Through the tales told by Carter and spun into a fascinating and revealing narrative by Marianne M. Moates readers discover in Truman Capote's Southern Years the lively imagination and the early tragedies of a brilliant child.

A new foreword by Ralph F. Voss underscores the enduring relevance of Truman Capote’s work and the influence his Alabama childhood had on his work.

AUTHORS/EDITORS Marianne M. Moates is an independent writer from Butler, Alabama.

Ralph F. Voss is the author of Truman Capote and the Legacy of "In Cold Blood’" and The Strains of Triumph: A Life of William Inge, among other books.

“A significant contribution to the social history of the era, Truman Capote's Southern Years is delightfully entertaining reading. While we will never know all the reasons for Capote's self-destructive nature, Truman Capote’s Southern Years gives us some insight into how and why Capote became what he was, both good and bad.”

—Southern Living REVIEWS “The young Truman Capote who emerges from these amusing recollections is quick-witted, scheming, mercurial, and a born leader in mischievous escapades.”

—Publishers Weekly

The second loaf can be wrapped and in foil and frozen for another meal.

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.

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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.

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

>>> F E AT U R E | A - D A Y

GOLDEN FLAKE A-DAY GAME ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES

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he Alabama Golden Flake A-Day Game, scheduled for a 1 p.m. (CT) kick on April 21 at Bryant-Denny Stadium, will include a full day of activities and experiences, including the opportunity for fans to take the field at the conclusion of the game. The A-Day game will serve as the 15th and final practice of the spring.

Gates open at 10 a.m. and admission will once again be free to the public.

experience upgrades and commemorative items.

It will be the program's 12th A-Day Game under the direction of six-time national championship coach Nick Saban. A myriad of activities punctuate the 2018 Golden Flake A-Day Game that will be televised on ESPN with Kirk Herbstreit, Joey Galloway, Adnan Virk and Holly Rowe calling the game from field level.

The Alumni Flag Football Game begins at 10:30 a.m. inside Bryant-Denny Stadium and will feature former Alabama standouts. The game is slated for two 20-minute halves and should wrap up around 11:15 a.m.

Game day will get started with the Mercedes-Benz Fan Fest, which will open at 8 a.m. adjacent to Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Fan Fest will feature free giveaways, sampling events, the Coca-Cola Kids Zone, live radio remotes, vehicle displays, the annual UA athletic apparel/game program sale and other fun fan activities open to the general public.

Numerous food vendors will also be open on the Walk of Champions Plaza starting at 8 a.m.

Alabama's 2017 Sugar Bowl and College Football Playoff national championship trophies will be on display at the Mercedes-Benz Fan Fest. Free photo opportunities with the trophies will begin at 8 a.m., while former Alabama football players will also be in attendance signing free autographs at Fan Fest. Check RollTide.com and UA Athletic Facebook pages for updated appearance confirmations and times.

A limited number of unique experience upgrades remain available for sale. Fans may purchase the opportunity to take their picture on the sideline during the game, secure VIP access to the alumni flag football game, guarantee seats in the shade, and more. Two special national championship items – commemorative season ticket sheets and College Football Playoff banners displayed in Atlanta – have also been released for sale. Visit RollTide.com/Experience to browse all available

A-Day posters featuring the 2018 schedule will be given away at the gates to the first 10,000 fans.

A-Day programs will also be available at a cost of $5. University of Alabama students are encouraged to enter through Gate 31 and swipe their ACT card for a chance to win one of several prizes that will be given out throughout the game.

One of the great traditions at The University of Alabama, which is always open to the public, is the annual Walk of Fame Ceremony at Denny Chimes.

At approximately 11:15 a.m. on A-Day, head coach Nick Saban and 2017 captains Bradley Bozeman, Rashaan Evans, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Shaun Dion Hamilton will address the crowd. The captains will then leave prints of their hands and cleats in the concrete as they join a long list of Crimson Tide greats at Denny Chimes.

The Crimson Tide will then hold its Walk of Champions, scheduled for 11:50 a.m., when the team arrives at Bryant-Denny Stadium. This year's

in school history came in 2011 (92,310). In head coach Nick Saban's first year of 2007, the stadium was at full capacity prior to expansion (92,138).

The Crimson Tide softball team hosts Tennessee at 4:30 p.m. in game one of their three-game series at Rhoads Stadium. The day concludes when the Alabama baseball team takes on Auburn at 7 p.m. at Sewell-Thomas Stadium. The Crimson Tide will also host the Tigers on Friday at 6 p.m. and on Sunday at 1 p.m. Tickets for Alabama baseball and softball games can be purchased at RollTide.com.

Public parking for A-Day is free and first-come/ first-serve with Crimson Ride shuttles beginning their game day routes at 7:00 a.m. Tuscaloosa Transit will begin running from the downtown Intermodal Facility at 10 a.m. and will conclude one hour after the end of the game. For more parking, traffic and A-Day information go to UAGameday.com.

Once again, Alabama's clear bag policy (PDF) will be in effect during the 2018 season beginning with the A-Day Game. The clear bag policy is in the best interest of public safety and significantly expedites entry into Bryant-Denny Stadium. The policy limits the size and types of bags that may be brought into the stadium by fans.

Get all the latest information on the team by following @AlabamaFTBL on Twitter and Facebook and AlabamaFBL on Instagram. General athletic news can also be found at UA_Athletics on Twitter and Instagram and AlabamaAthletics on Facebook.

Players Mentioned #75 Bradley Bozeman

halftime entertainment will feature a home run derby as former Crimson Tide football, baseball and softball players square off in an entertaining competition.

Coach Saban will present the spring awards to the team at midfield at the conclusion of the game.

Once the team has cleared the field, for the fifth straight year at A-Day, all fans will have postgame field access. Fans may enter through any of the four corner gates.

Alabama leads the nation in spring game attendance over the last 11 years with a total of 884,070 fans for an average of 80,970 fans per game during that period.

The largest A-Day crowd

OL 6' 5" 314 lbs Redshirt Senior #32 Rashaan Evans LB 6' 3" 234 lbs Senior #29 Minkah Fitzpatrick DB 6' 1" 202 lbs Junior #20 Shaun Dion Hamilton LB 6' 0" 235 lbs Senior

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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

MAHALO POKE // FRESH AND FABULOUS

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okie? Pokay? Poke is one of the newest foodie trends emerging in metro areas. This north Alabama girl had her first poke experience at Mahalo Poke on the strip. She learned how to pronounce the word shortly before ordering. The Hawaiian dish gives healthy eating an adventurous twist. The proteins include sashimi grade seafood. In other words, the meat is raw. For the faint at heart or the hypochondriac, Mahalo Poke also offers some cooked options like tofu and crab. Basically, poke is a lot like eating sushi in bowl format, but with a lot more rice. When more carbohydrates are involved, what is not to love?

The menu offers some premade bowls, like the Aloha, or you can build your own bowl. Each bowl has a base of rice or mixed greens. Next, you pick your protein. Then, you can choose from the Subway-like assortment of toppings, such as edamame, crispy onions, scallions, and pineapple.

Finally, you choose a sauce to top off your bowl.

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I chose to build my own bowl with half mixed greens and half rice, tofu, cucumber, edamame, and crispy onions. I went with the unagi sauce on my bowl because the name sounded intriguing. It ended up being a tangy, citrus flavored vinaigrette. The best term to describe the taste of the bowl was “healthy,” just like the feeling of eating a salad or drinking green tea.

It was light, refreshing, sweet, and packed with nutrients. The crispy onions became the MVP of the bowl because they added a needed crunch to an otherwise soft texture. My only regret was choosing the “small” bowl over the “regular.” If my base would have only included rice, I think it would have been more filling. Since I selected the mixed greens, I ended up staying a little unsatisfied.

experience, but it will not be my last.

Mahalo Poke is located at 1211 University Boulevard and opens at 11 a.m. daily. Tweet us @ ThePlanetWeekly and let us know where you are eating!

Alicia Gilbert is a current dietetic intern at the University of Alabama and future registered dietitian.

Follow her food Instagram @ coldbrewandcarbs.

In all, this restaurant is worth a visit for fanatic foodies, trendy millennials, or brave individuals looking to try something new. The location on strip and the Hawaiian décor created a fun and lighthearted atmosphere. Mahalo Poke may have been my first poke

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

>>> B E E R R E V I E W | J A S O N J O H N S O N

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

APOTHIC ROSE JUDGE'S REVIEW: 93 RATING - LICHER WEIZEN

BY LICHER PRIVATBRAUEREI HEFEWEIZEN | WEISSBIER LIMITED RELEASE | GERMANY Judges Rating: 93 Aroma: 22 / 24 Appearance: 6/6 Flavor: 38 / 40 Mouthfeel: 9 / 10 Overall Impression: 18 / 20

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am judging this beer against the BJCP guidelines category 10a, Weissbier. A traditional weissbier should be a pale, refreshing German wheat beer with high carbonation, a dry finish, a fluffy mouthfeel and a distinctive banana and clove yeast character.

First thing I’m looking at in a traditional weizen is the aroma. I liked this beer’s dominant banana ester in the aroma and the low background note of the clove phenol. It is very well done and smells quite refreshing. There is a soft wheat and low spicy noble hop presence that is just as it should be. Because we roused the yeast there is a solid yeasty background to it all. It poured a solid gold color with significant haze, typical for the style. The head was fluffy and very pillowy, which is exactly what I would expect from this beer.

The flavor matches the aroma well. With a nice mildly wheaty flavor, a moderate amount of bitterness and great balance between the esters and phenols. The mouthfeel is light and crisp, thanks in large part to the high carbonation. All in all, this is an excellent traditional hefeweizen, my only complaint was that there is a fresh characteristic in fantastic hefeweizens that this one was lacking. But still, it's very solid. If you can find this beer, I don't think you would be disappointed at all.

A

pothic Rose is from Modesto, California, USA and is the Apothic wine brand’s foray into Rose. To the best of my knowledge, this wine is NOT a limited release like some of the other Apothic wines.

From the bottle: Peer into the secret garden, beyond the veiled gate. Among pale petals, lies a refreshing blend. This Rose blends layers of strawberry and watermelon with a hint of raspberry, for a refreshing wine that is light in color, yet dark in nature. How dramatic!

I tasted the 2017 vintage of Apothic Rose.

Appearance All revved up from the dramatic label reading, I opened the twist top and gave the wine a good pour! In the glass, I found this wine to be a blend of pink and rose gold in color. It was definitely light in appearance and I’ve seen Rose wines that were much darker. I also noticed a good amount of tiny bubbles affixed to the glass, almost up to the fill line. All in all, quite elegant looking in my Rose wine glass (and very leggy too).

Aroma I tried to be aware as I was opening the wine to see if there was a burst of aroma. While there was just a bit, it wasn’t overly powerful. In order to get a good whiff, I had to really get my nose into the glass. Once I did, I noted very light hints of strawberry and raspberry.

The aroma was typical of other Roses I’ve tried. I was a little worried there was going to be a sweet smell to the wine, but thankfully there was not.

There was no alcohol burn in the nose, either. So far, so good!

Taste I found the label’s description to be pretty accurate. I tasted just a little watermelon and some light

raspberry. Maybe the slightest hint of pink grapefruit too. To be clear, the watermelon flavor was very minimal.

The light raspberry is really what carried the flavor.

Much like the aroma, I found the taste to be similar to other Rose wines I’ve had. Apothic has a reputation of going for unexpected flavors. However, in this case they towed the line on what a decent Rose should taste like. All in all, the taste was very good!

Mouthfeel and Tannins Apothic Rose’s mouthfeel was lightly juicy. I did notice some minimal tannins all over my palate. Just about right for a Rose.

Finish The wine finished medium to long with a good balance between the flavors and tannins. Maybe just the slightest bit of bitterness in there, but certainly not off-putting by any means.

Overall Opinion Overall, I found this wine to be tasty, well-behaved and nicely balanced.

Not overly dry, either. I was worried they were going to do something crazy like they did with Inferno, but fortunately this one hits the Rose mark quite nicely. I would feel quite comfortable bringing this wine to a dinner party. Apothic Rose price $9.99, making it a nice Under $10 casual sipper.

If you’re wondering where to buy Apothic Rose, I found it in my local package store. I also saw it available in the bigger retailers.

Suggested Food Pairing To start, don’t hesitate to drink this wine as a standalone sipper. But for a pairing, this wine calls out to be paired with cheese.

A light cheese plate, greens with goat cheese, even some melty Brie over baguette slices. Picnic perfect!

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>>> RESTAURANTS |

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

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. | WedSat 10:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

752.5895

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.

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

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

Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill 2001 New Watermelon Rd | Northport // 342.3378 LaGran Fiesta 9770 Hwy 69 S // 345.8871

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

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

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

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

Margarita's Grill 1241 McFarland Blvd E // 343.0300

Holler & Dash 1130 University Blvd A-1, Tuscaloosa//752-3310 Sun-Thur 7am–2pm Fri-Sat 7am–9pm Sun 7am2pm//www.holleranddash.com International House of Pancakes 724 Skyland Blvd // 366.1130 Jack's 1200 Hackberry Lane | Tuscaloosa // 345.1199

Moe’s Southwest Grill (2 locations) 2330 McFarland Blvd E // 342.1487 1130 University Blvd // 752.0234 | moes.com Pastor's Kitchen 2910 5th St, Northport//553-2320 Mon-Fri 10:30am-2pm, 4:30–9pm Sat 10:30am8pm Closed Sun Pepito’s (2 locations) 1203 University Blvd | The Strip // 391.9028 1301 McFarland Blvd NE // 391.4861

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 Central Mesa 523-7738// 519 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa Mon-Thur 11am-10pm Friday-Sat 11am-11pm Sunday: 10am-3pm

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

Chipotle Mexican Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 391.0140 www.chipotle.com Chuy's 1320 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa// 349-4947 Sun-Thur 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-11pm | www. chuys.com Don Tono's 2312 4th Street | Temerson Square // 345.9191 La Cocina Bar & Grill 561-6851 Mon-Thur 11am-9:30 Fri 11am-10pm Sat 9am-10pm Sun 9am-9pm lacocinatuscaloosa.com El Rincon (2 locations) 1225 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 366.0855 1726 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 330.1274

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

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

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.

Iguana Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village //

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

10

APR 19 + MAY 2

Maki Fresh 759-2555//1530 Mcfarland Blvd N, Tuscaloosa// Mon-Sun 11am–9pm Asian chain serving maki, rice bowls, tempura, sliders & more.

Tokyo Japanese Steak & Sushi Bar 6521 Hwy 69 S | Hillcrest Center // 366.1177// Offers steak, seafood, tempura, teriyaki and sushi.

Including cooking at your table, if you choose.

Sun–Thurs 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Fri & Sat 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Kobe Steak House 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 7591400//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 Rock 'n Roll Sushi 469-9060//2229 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa Mon-Thur 11am-9pm Fri-Sat 11am-10pm Sun 12-9pm 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 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 Animal Butter 710-5455// 2217 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa// TueSat 11am–10pm Sun 11am–9pm Monday Closed | www.animalbutterinc.com

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

- 3 p.m.

Mae's Southern Cafe 710-5488//4419 hwy 43 n suite 5, Northport Tue-Sat 11am–7pm Sun-10:30pm–12am Sun 11am6pm Mon-12AM–8PM Metro Diner 464-9428//1800 McFarland Blvd E #404 Tuscaloosa Sun-Thur 7am–8pm Fri-Sat 7am–9pm www.metrodiner.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 Mr Bill's Family Dining 333-9312 2715 McFarland Blvd, Northport Mon-Fri 10am-8pm Closed Sat-Sun Nothing But Noodles 1320 McFarland Blvd E #530// 349-2900// www.nothingbutnoodles.com Pastas, Salads, Soups, Desserts Fri-Sat 10:30am–10:30pm SunThur 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

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.

PHO TOWN 248-7663 Vietnamese Noodle Soup & Grill 1800 McFarland Blvd E #420, Tuscaloosa Mon-Sat 11am-9pm Sun-11am-8pm

Big Daddy’s Cafe 514 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 759.9925

Quick Grill 1208 University Blvd | The Strip // 342.0022 www.bamaquickgrill.com

The Blue Plate Restaurant (Was Northport Diner) 450 McFarland Blvd, Northport // 462-3626

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

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

Chicken Salad Chick The Shoppes at Midtown & Essex Square, Northport www.chickensaladchick.com Dat's Good 333-4663// 4300 AL-13, Northport Specializes in Catfish, Hot Wings,and BBQ Tue-Sat 10am-9pm Closed Sun & Mon www.facebook.com/DatsGoodBBQ 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.

Sitar Indian Cuisine 500 15th St // 345-1419 Southern Ale House 1530 McFarland Blvd N//Monday-Thursday 11a.m9p.m., Friday-Saturday 11a.m.-10p.m. Sunday Brunch 11a.m.-2p.m.

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// 5616999//We use the freshest ingredients available with an emphasis on supporting the local farmer Mon-Sun 10am–9pm//www.urbancookhouse.com Whataburger - 349-4506 820 Skyland Blvd, Tuscaloosa Open 24 hours - Inside & Drive-thru www.whataburger.com Zoe’s Kitchen 312 Merchants Walk // 344.4450 A wonderful selection of Greek foods

Hooligan’s

>>> 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

SPORTS GRILL Baumhower's Wings of Tuscaloosa (2 Locations) 500 Harper Lee Drive | catering-Pick-up Tuscaloosa //556.5858 4251 Courtney Dr, Tuscaloosa // 556-5658 Always fresh and always fun. Owned by former UA/ Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower. Kid Friendly Buffalo Phil’s 1149 University Blvd | The Strip // 758.3318 Sports grille with TVs galore. Diverse beer and wine selection, full bar 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 Mon through Wed from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs through Sat from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sun 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.

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

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

Innisfree Irish Pub 1925 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 345.1199 Mugshots Grill & Bar 511 Greensboro Ave // 391.0572//Great burgers.

Full service bar. Open late. | www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com

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

Walton's 915 Patriot Pkwy, Tuscaloosa//752-1693 Wings and much more Mon-Sat 9am-10pm Closed Sun | waltonstuscaloosa.com

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

Wilhagan’s 2209 4th St | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 366.0913 Wings U 1800 McFarland Blvd East Suite 218 | Pick-up Tuscaloosa // 561.3984 Features the first coal-fired pizza oven in Alabama. Owned by former UA/Miami Dolphins great Bob Baumhower. Completely open concept! www.wingsu.com WingZone 1241 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 342.2473 BARBEQUE Archibald & Woodrow's BBQ 4215 Greensboro Ave | Tuscaloosa // 331.4858 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Sun lunch Bama BBQ & Grill 3380 McFarland Blvd | Northport // 333.9816 Dickey's BBQ (3 locations) 9770 Alabama 69; Midtown; and 13544 Hwy 43 North at Rose Blvd. in Northport. Texas Barbecue. | 344.6500 1800 McFarland Blvd, Midtown Village, Tuscaloosa. | 758-1133 | 13544 Hwy 43 North, Winn Dixie Shopping Center, Northport. | 330-1147 Dreamland (2 locations) 5535 15th Ave | Tuscaloosa // 758.8135 101 Bridge Ave | Northport // 343.6677 The legend. On game day, get there early if you want to make kickoff. Seating is limited. Hours: Mon–Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sun 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

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

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

SEAFOOD Chuck’s Fish 508 Greensboro Ave | Downtown Tuscaloosa // 248.9370 Monday - Thursday 5-10 p.m. and Friday - Saturday 5-11 p.m. Steak, seafood, & sushi specialities. Daily specials.

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) Shrimp Basket 3249 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa//469-9786 Mon-Fri 10:30am–9pm | www.shrimpbasket.com Catfish Heaven 2502 21st St, Tuscaloosa// 752-7222 Mon-Sat 11am-7:30pm Closed Sun 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

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

New China Fun 4213 University Blvd E, Tuscaloosa//553-2435 Mon-Thur 11am–9:30pm Fri-Sat 11am–10:30pm Sun 12–9:30PM

Newk’s Express Cafe 205 University Blvd. East // 758.2455// www.newkscafe.com Sun–Wed 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Thurs–Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

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

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

Pearl Garden 2719 Lurleen Wallace Blvd | Northport // 339.0880

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

R. Davidson Chophouse 2330 4th St. /Downtown Tuscaloosa/ 205.614.8782 Reservations are available online at rdchophouse. com or by phone. Hours - Tues–Fri. Lunch – 11:00am – 2:00pm; Cocktail Hour – 4:00pm; Dinner – 5:00pm - untill. Saturday: Lunch – 11:00am 4:00pm; Cocktail Hour – 4:00pm; Dinner – 5:00pm - until. Sunday Brunch: 10:00am - until

Hooter’s 5025 Oscar Baxter Dr | Next to Jameson Inn // 758.3035 www.hooters.com

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

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. 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-9am10pm Firehouse Subs 1130 University Blvd | Tuscaloosa // 248.0680 Hungry Howie’s (4 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 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 Subs n' You 2427 University Blvd. | Tuscaloosa // 205.758.0088 Roly Poly Sandwiches 2300 4th Street | Tuscaloosa // 366.1222

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 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 Open daily.

Lunch: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner: 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. | www.surinofthailand.com COFFEE SHOPS OHenry's Coffee 650-4044 //2531 University Blvd #100 Mon-Thur 6am-9pm Fri 6-10pm Sat 7-10pm Sun 7-9pm Uperk 553-8505 // 405 20th Ave, Tuscaloosa Mon-Fri 6:30am-9pm Sat 8am-2pm Sun 2-9pmBarnes & 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. – 6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. – 4 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 Dunkin' Donuts 2520 Stillman Blvd. |Tuscaloosa// 349.3400 McCorvey Dr. | Tuscaloosa // 348.4041 | www. dunkindonuts.com Frutta Bowls 752-3293//2531 University Blvd Suite 110 Mon-Sun 7am–9pm | www.fruttabowls.com

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

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.

Pyros Fire Fresh Pizza 1320 McFarland Blvd E #270, Tuscaloosa//248-7343 Mon-Fri 10:30am-10pm | www.pyrospizza.com

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

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

TCBY (2 Locations) 2304 Mcfarland Blbd | Meadowbrook Shopping Center // 349.4661 2 Mcfarland Blvd | Northport | Essex Shopping Center // 758.6855

Jason’s Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd // 752.6192 www.jasonsdeli.com Located in the Meadowbrook Shopping Center Jimmy John’s (3 locations) 1400 University Blvd | The Strip // 366.3699 1875 McFarland Blvd N | Northport // 752.7714 815 Lurleen B. Wallace S | Tuscaloosa // 722.2268 Delivery 7 days a week. www.jimmyjohns.com Manna Grocery & Deli 2300 McFarland Blvd E | Tuscaloosa // 752.9955

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 Mountain 1800 McFarland Blvd E | Midtown Village // 342.1484 | Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. | Fri & Sat 11 a.m. - midnight

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

APR 19 + MAY 2

11

u o Y Have ? d r e H

Y R E V I L E D E E

’S BILLY

FR

HAS

CALL TODAY

205-879-2238

*option 3

Billy’s Sports Grill

430 Main Avenue Northport, AL 35476 205-879-2238 *option 3 BillysSportsGrill.com/menu

FEED YOUR GOAT!

12

APR 19 + MAY 2

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

er nest hadley booksellers

1928 7th street tuscaloosa, al 35401 Hours: 10 am–6 pm, Mon.–Fri. 10 am – 5 pm, Sat. Closed Sunday

205.632.5331 www.ernestandhadleybooks.com

For tickets to all Spring 2018 shows

15% off one regularly priced item* with this ad. (*excludes gift certificates and memberships)

call 205.348.3400 or visit theatre.ua.edu.

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APR 19 + MAY 2

13

>>> PET PLANET

LUCY LOU // TERRIER MIX

SHIRLEY // TABBY CAT

S

T

hirley is a 7-year-old domestic shorthaired, gray female tabby. She is a little shy, but warms up quickly with some gentle petting. She loves ear scratches and playtime.

his sweet young lady is Lucy Lou, a 2-yearold terrier mix. She has a solid white smooth coat and a cute shorter tail.

Lucy Lou is medium size.

Shirley loves to lounge around, especially in small cat beds. She is in need of someone who will give her lots of love.

She is a calm and friendly dog. She can be playful and is social once she is comfortable with her surroundings. She seems to do well with other dogs and should be fine with children ages 7 and older.

Lucy Lou would be OK in an apartment as long as she gets daily exercise.

She is negative for FIV and FeLK and current on vaccinations. She is spayed and would do best in a home without other cats or small children.

Visit Shirley and the other cats and kittens at the HSWA Cat Adoption Center on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Otherwise, please call 205-554-0011 or visit humanesocietyofwa.org to request an appointment to meet our available animals.

She will require a fencedin yard if left outside unattended, but she very much wants to be with you!

We have started on her crate training. Lucy Lou is up to date on her vet care and will be spayed prior to adoption. She is heartworm negative and is microchipped. She is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention.

Please call 205-554-0011 or visit humanesocietyofwa.org to request an appointment to meet our available animals.

PLANET WEEKLY

SPECIAL A DAY GAME EDITION APRIL 19TH publisher@theplanetweekly.com

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.

Pr

VOLUNTEER

! o t n o

. t s a F e i P Eat 5th Annual united way young leaders society

pie

eating

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1

Next Issue // May 2

Advertising Deadline: Friday, April 27 205-523-4668//205-792-7239

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APR 19 + MAY 2

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

A QUIET PLACE // IF THEY HEAR YOU THEY HUNT YOU

★★★

OU T OF 4

T

he use of breathless silence to create white-knuckled suspense in a horror chiller as the characters await the inevitable confrontation with evil separates good scary movies from bad. Silence is golden in actor/director John Krasinski’s “A Quiet Place”, a clever but contrived synthesis of science fiction and horror after an apocalyptic alien invasion of Earth. A species of scene-stealing fiends straight out of an H.P. Lovecraft nightmare have infested the planet. Equipped with hypersensitive hearing, they prey mercilessly on mankind, tracking people down by any sounds they make and then eviscerating them with trenchant talons and porcupine teeth.

“Nightlight” scenarists Bryan Woods & Scott Beck, along with Krasinski, have formulated a unique premise.

Menacing as these ultra-deadly alien spawn are, they cannot see. Indeed, they are as blind as bats! These skeletal creatures make gnashing sounds as they stalk their victims and then cut loose with ear-splitting shrieks like tortured swine screaming in agony. Although untold numbers of these invaders roam the countryside, they usually launch individual attacks rather than group raids. Unlike typical creature features that conceal their monstrosities in the shadows, “A Quiet Place” presents these gruesome extraterrestrials in all their creepy ugliness. Moreover, these unholy devils strike like lightning, and they can slash through metal with their talons as if it were tin-foil. The CGI gurus at Industrial Light & Magic have forged a genuinely frightening creature that will join the pantheon of unearthly fiends like those featured in “Alien,” “Predator,” “Pan’s Labyrinth,” and “The Thing.” Whimpering is more than enough to get you killed in an instant if one of these aliens lurks in the vicinity. Krasinski and his writers devote several scenes that show how this one family in rural upstate New York has survived under these deathdefying conditions with improvised but elaborate safeguards.

Basically, “A Quiet Place” focuses on one family. Smart and sharp as it is, this $17-million scary saga qualifies as an old-fashioned B-movie that provides minimal information about its alien apocalypse. No bespectacled scientists deliver lectures about this extraordinary invasion. In the farmhouse where the family holes up, newspaper

clippings are plastered about the room about the alien onslaught and its deadly consequences. The Abbot family are scavenging a deserted supermarket for anything of value. Lee Abbot (John Krasinski of “Leatherheads”) and his wife Evelyn (Emily Blunt of “Loopers”) are conducting an inventory of canned goods, prescription medicine, and other miscellaneous items without uttering a syllable. The Abbot’s deaf daughter Reagan (Millicent Simmonds of “Wonderstruck”) and her younger, little brother, Beau (newcomer Cade Woodward), are browsing through the toys, while her older brother Marcus (Noah Jupe of “Wonder”) is engaged elsewhere. Beau spots a toy model of the Space Shuttle on a shelf just beyond his fingers. Struggling to reach it, he topples the model from the shelf. Fortunately, Reagan intercepts it before the toy crashes to the floor. The shuttle comes equipped with batteries. Before Beau can activate the spacecraft’s lights and sound effects, Lee intervenes and confiscates the batteries.

No matter where they are, the Abbots behave like Trappist monks, adopting a vow of silence, for fear of attracting the aliens with noise of the least decibel. Rarely do the Abbots speak above a raspy whisper. Primarily, they communicate with sign language.

The lengthening shadows outside the supermarket warn them that dusk is approaching. Lee, Evelyn, and their three children leave the store and walk home. They follow a path piled with dirt to muffle not only their own footsteps, but also anything else, like crunchy leaves, that might betray their presence. Reagan takes pity

on Beau and gives the Space Shuttle model back to him with its batteries intact. Tragedy occurs later when they reach the woods, and naive little Beau activates the toy Space Shuttle.

The Abbotts freeze in their footsteps as the Shuttle toy shatters the silence with an abrupt and noisy crescendo of sound. An evil creature with its acute sonar-like hearing smashes through the woods like a juggernaut toward the little boy. Lee scrambles desperately to save his young son, but he is too late. Evelyn blames herself for not having watched Beau closer, while Reagan is mortified by her role in giving him the shuttle toy with the batteries in it. Thus, ends day number 89!

When we see the Abbots again, 472 days have elapsed. Evelyn has gotten pregnant again. Lee toils in his laboratory workshop in the basement of their rambling farmhouse where he

tinkers with hearing aids for Reagan.

Occasionally, he broadcasts a signal on his ham radio, but nobody has ever responded. The couple have developed other items to ensure their own survival. They have converted a crate into a crib. Lee has equipped it for an infant to sleep in comfortably without alarming aliens. The father has installed an oxygen tank with a face mask, so the little one can sleep peacefully with the lid shut. You can imagine how an infant howling would arouse the wrath of those tyrannical aliens. The entire house has been marked so nobody steps on a board which might creak loudly.

Occasionally, accidents occur. While Marcus and Reagan are playing a board game, Marcus knocks over a candle, and a fire erupts briefly. Lee smothers the blaze, and the family take up defensive positions. The most unforgettable scene involves Evelyn. Her water breaks, and then she steps on a nail with her bare foot! The sudden gust of breath that she takes brings a monster storming onto the premises. Lee, Marcus, and Reagan are away from the house when this happens. Evelyn cringes in a tub as the inhuman heathen skulks about the bathroom without realizing her presence.

Clocking in at 90 spine-tingling minutes, Krasinski’s movie shuns those predictable jump-scare incidents where everybody screams like banshees. The suspense and the tension that “A Quiet Place” methodically builds with impeccable artistry will keep you gasping for breath as you struggle not to make a sound.

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>>> P O P U L A R S C I E N C E | B I L LY C A D D E N

GREAT APPS FOR CREATIVE KIDS

F

rom baby Van Goghs to tiny Van Halens. Did you know that art can help boost your child's interest in science?

While hands-on experience with a pencil, brush, or instrument is important, it's more likely that children will have a smartphone or tablet in their hands. In their spare time— instead of watching YouTube videos or Snapchating—let them experiment with these apps for art, drawing, and coding.

1 Bandimal BANDIMAL is a loop-based music composer for children ages four and up. The app lets you create drum beats, program musical loops using animals as instruments, and then add effects to your songs. Each of the nine available animals represents a specific instrument or noise—smaller animals like a chicken make higher tones and larger instruments make bass tones. The composition screen is split up into three tabs to place any three animals you'd like in your creature orchestra. They are animated and dance to the beat once you program and play the song. No music knowledge is required and your child can save their composition and return to it at any time. The app is available for iPhones and iPads. $4.

2. Hopscotch: Make Games Hopscotch teaches kids coding concepts through the process of building their own games. Instead of writing complicated textbased code, the app simplifies the process by using object-based programming. Pint-

sized programmers map commands to specific objects by clicking and dragging colorful action blocks. For example, they can place a heart icon on screen and program it to bounce and change color if the phone hears a loud noise through its microphone. After learning the basics, users can ramp up the complexity of the commands. Once the game is complete, users can share it online and play other people's creations.

The app is for children eight and older and features tutorials on how to make games like Pokemon Go and Crossy Road. Subscription—which features more tutorials and let's you draw your own custom characters—is $80 for the year. Free.

3. Lake Lake: Coloring Books is an art app for children and adults. Use five tools—acrylic brush, watercolor brush, spray, fill, and an eraser—to add up to 245 colors to your photos. Lake gives you one free drawing per day, but if you choose to subscribe to the app—which helps support the artists that provide the illustrations—you'll receive more outlines, gain access to art from featured artists, and unlock more color palettes. It even works with Apple Pencil if you're using a compatible iPad. Once you are done, you can save, share, and print your masterpieces. Free.

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

Across

1. Jack who once hosted "The Tonight Show" 5. Film director Frank 10. Shoshone tribe 14. Playwright who penned "Picnic" 15. Cravings 16. Actor Eric of 2009's "Star Trek" 17. Stylish Miami area 19. Bay Area sch.

20. Watching one's weight 21. Part of ICBM 22. Bush's attorney general 26. Go to, as a restaurant 30. Encouraged 34. India's first prime minister 35. Knight of rap 36. Air quality org.

37. African parasite 39. Sickening emanation 42. Neighbor of Bulg.

43. St. Nick's holiday 47. Praise mightily 48. Eastern Michigan University home 51. Houses of straw 52. 13th and 21st U.S. Secretary of Defense 54. Clear moisture from 57. Amount of ooze 62. Tell all 63. Emphasized again 66. Comic Jay 67. Cul ___ 68. Bathtub scum 69. Says, auf Deutsch 70. Watery snow 71. ___ bitty

SOLUTION FOR PUZZLEMANIA CROSSWORD ON PAGE 21

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Down

1. ____ mojado ("wet floor") 2. Soon, to Shakespeare 3. Water, in Oaxaca 4. Former gen.'s status 5. Cheese servings 6. Belonging to the Queen of Soul 7. Daly's org.

8. Amusement, for short 9. Volcanic output 10. Kindness and humanity, in Africa 11. Savoir-faire 12. Bay State motto start 13. Bloemfontein's loc.

18. Break in the action 21. "____ Man Answers" (Bobby Darin/Sandra Dee film) 23. PC "brain" 24. Video game genre, for short 25. Bullfight bravos 26. Vestibule 27. "The Fox and the Grapes" author 28. "___ fightin' words!"

29. Museum offering 31. Fender mishaps 32. Center of Florida 33. Arlene and Roald 38. Big test 40. Sensitive 41. Common PC file extension 44. "Devil" director's initials 45. DOJ bureau 46. Naps in Nogales 49. Asimov collection 50. Carry with effort 53. Sucker at the lake 54. Certain hits (abbr.)

55. Birthplace of Parmenides 56. Vampire feature 58. Equal prefix 59. Busy 60. Lady's man 61. Boundary-pushing 63. Map abbrs.

64. Slippery swimmer 65. Ames sch.

>>> PUZZLEMANIA| S U D O K U

It's easy to play Sudoku! Simply fill every column, row and 3x3 box so they contain every number between 1 and 9. The game is easy to play but difficult to master! Solution Page 21

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>>> HOROSCOPES | W E E K L Y O V E R V I E W The week begins on an indulgent note that can be perfect for a romantic date or meal with friends. Whatever you do, it should be very enjoyable. You will come into your own this week as the sun dances into your sign, enhancing your vitality and encouraging you to put into motion any plans that are meaningful to you. As sobering Saturn and fervent Pluto enter their retrograde phase, you could become entangled in a situation or relationship that may not be in your best interests.

Monday could see you being rewarded for a job well done or perhaps praised and recognized for your work and dedication.

This can also be a promising week for collaborating on a long-term project or business idea. Progress may be slow, but eventually success could be yours. Midweek, an unexpected invitation could offer a fun evening out. As the sun moves into Taurus, a more secluded sector of your chart, you’ll enter a phase in which you might want to avoid too much socializing.

Trying to make any headway this week could be hard. Others may be quite demanding, and their needs might take up a lot of your time and energy. You also have plans of your own to attend to, and even here the presence of Mercury retrograde can cause delays. If the pressure becomes too much, you’ll need to set some firm boundaries.

Let others know that there is only so much you can do - and be strict with them. The ability to say no and mean it can be especially useful in the days ahead. Still, your friends could prove very supportive and willing to help you out in whatever way they can.

The pressure may be on at the start of the week as determined Mars links to prudent Saturn. This blend of energies takes place in your work and lifestyle sector, and it could see you tackling a project that is somewhat overwhelming. Although your focus and concentration may be good, it could be a great help to delegate aspects of this task. If you encounter obstacles, try to relax. Pushing too hard might make things worse. Another side of you could be eager to explore, travel, and traverse new terrain.

The start of the week could be most enjoyable, offering you a chance to connect with someone who is excellent company.

This upbeat start to the week can boost your spirits and leave you with an energy high. With both prudent Saturn and potent Pluto rewinding in your romance and creativity sector, you could become focused on a budding relationship or artistic project.

However, you could also get a bit obsessed, which certainly won’t help. Make time to stand back and get involved in other things.

The start of the week could bring some unexpected money your way. When lovely Venus ties with expansive Jupiter, someone might want to reward you for your kindness and present you with a gift or cash. Both cautious Saturn and radical Pluto turn retrograde in your domestic sector, and this can bring changes that have positive and powerful consequences. You might need to let go of certain things, and while it may be difficult, it could also be a relief.

Even so, you might need to detach from a family situation that’s taking up too much of your time and energy.

A relationship could move to a new and more positive level on Monday, and it could seem like the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for. In addition, this can be the perfect time for a special date or a meal with a friend that presents you with new opportunities. As intense Pluto, your personal planet, and cautious Saturn enter their retrograde phase, it might be helpful to not to get too obsessed with a certain situation or person. Indeed, the more you can stand back and let matters take their course, the sooner a solution may be found.

Spiritual insight and wisdom can bring powerful guidance your way at the start of the week. This could help you make a decision that you may have put off for some time. A strong focus on your sector of values could find you becoming more focused on money, career, and the material side of life. Indeed, the issue of security - financial or other - could weigh heavily on your mind. If you can relax your grip on this area, you might find that money flows to you more easily and from sources you couldn’t have anticipated.

Take advantage of a wonderful aspect between sociable Venus and expansive Jupiter to relish a delightful social event on Tuesday. As this aspect links into your romance zone, it can hint at a wonderful date, too. In addition, as the sun moves into Taurus and your pleasure sector, you may begin to feel as though a burden has been eased. If you’ve been busy with various matters, the weeks ahead can bring a pleasant respite.

You now have an opportunity to indulge your senses and enjoy yourself to the max.

You might be tempted to give in to a desire to stay home rather than go to work or finish your tasks. This might be something you should schedule in because it’s important to get the rest you need, but perhaps not right at the start of the week. Get ready to relax with a capital R, though. If you feel tired, the sun’s move into Taurus and your home sector on Thursday can be like returning to the womb. This is your opportunity to nurture yourself and replenish your energy.

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A warm conversation or a chance to reconnect with someone can make the start of the week very special and upbeat. After a lively few weeks, the next few could be calmer and perhaps easier to handle. Plans that could enhance your security, grow your business, or improve your lifestyle may seek expression. However, as prudent Saturn and scorching Pluto turn retrograde, you might want to restructure your social life in the coming weeks and months and avoid a certain friend who may be jealous of you.

The coming week could see you becoming less idealistic and more down to earth, particularly when it comes to your career, money matters, and security. As Saturn and Pluto rewind at the top of your chart, you could focus even more deeply on a goal or plan that you’re eager to accomplish. But a tie between lovely Venus and intense Pluto on Tuesday suggests you could have too much of an attachment to this. Getting out of your own way can make the goal easier to reach. Expect the unexpected as the sun syncs with restless Uranus midweek.

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

WEEKEND RECRUITING TIDBITS

A

lot of prospects were reported to be unofficially visiting Tuscaloosa this past weekend. Unofficial visits are always subject to change. Bad weather in the Tuscaloosa area might have prevented some from visiting, but several highly-regarded prospects did make it. Here are a few quick recruiting tidbits.

OL JAVONNE SHEPHERD We are told that four-star Javonne Shepherd (66, 320) of Houston-North Forest had a great visit to Alabama. Texas A&M and Texas have been considered the early leaders. But there is now quite a bit of buzz in Tuscaloosa about Alabama's possibly becoming a strong contender.

OL CLAY WEBB Five-star offensive lineman Clay Webb of Oxford, AL was in town on Saturday for the scrimmage.

The 6-3 Webb is a solidly built 295-pounder.

Webb spent time on the visit with new Tide quarterback commit Paul Tyson of HewittTrussville. Webb is considered a strong Alabama lean.

QB TAULIA TAGOVAILOA Thompson QB Taulia Tagovailoa has also

22

APR 19 + MAY 2

spent the past few days in town. We won't be surprised if Tagovailoa pulls the trigger for Alabama later this spring.

PK WILL REICHARD Hoover placekicker Will Reichard was in for Saturday’s scrimmage. Reichard is generally considered the nation's top placekicker, and Alabama is considered the strong favorite.

LB SHANE LEE Baltimore-St. Frances four-star Shane Lee has the look of a real thumper at inside backer. Lee is close to 6-0 and about 240 pounds. He was at Saturday's scrimmage.

DE ANTONIO ALFANO Four-star defensive lineman Antonio Alfano (6-4, 278) of Colonial, NJ spent a couple of days in town. Alfano tweeted that he had an "amazing" visit. Alfano has offers from Alabama, Florida, FSU, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Penn State, Tennessee and USC, among others.

weekend. He is considered by some to be the nation's top rising junior receiver. The buzz is that Tide WR coach Josh Gattis (formerly of Penn State) has strong ties with Fleming.

Alabama seems to be the early favorite.

QB HARRISON BAILEY Very highly-regarded 2020 QB Harrison Bailey of Marietta, GA was in town. The 6-5, 225-pound Bailey already has 20 offers, including ones from Alabama, Auburn, Florida, FSU, Georgia, Michigan and Tennessee, among others.

OL DARNELL WRIGHT Looking forward to A-Day next Saturday, Alabama will host numerous prospects. One expected in is Huntington, WV five-star offensive tackle Darnell Wright. The 6-6, 320-pound Wright might be the top OT in the 2019 class.

While some say that Ohio State is the early favorite, sources told Tider Insider's Rodney Orr that Alabama is the team to watch. Tennessee is also in the mix.

WR JULIAN FLEMING 2020 WR Julian Fleming of Catawissa-Southern Columbia, PA was slated to visit Alabama this

>>> 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

Courtesy UA Media Relations

NICK SABAN SPEAKS

A

labama wrapped up its second scrimmage of the spring on Saturday. Due to weather conditions, the scrimmage was held inside the Hank Crisp practice facility. As usual, the scrimmage was closed to the media. Coach Saban provided some comments to the media following the scrimmage. Here are some highlights of his comments.

I guess it was pretty obvious that we did not have any choice. After eleven years we had to go inside for a scrimmage. I also think it's an opportunity for our players. Sometimes you get rain delays. At Missouri a few years ago we had one for over an hour. Players have to be able to respond and react to things like this.

I do think there was some improvement in terms of how we played versus last week. Really hard to know, because the two things that we really want to evaluate is how many mental errors do you make, how many unforced errors do you have, how many missed tackles do you have on defense. These things can be sort of terminal in terms of you can't have have those kinds of mistakes, because the other team is basically getting a free pass. They're not doing anything to earn what they get. I do think that we made some improvement in that area. But I also think that we need to continue to improve, especially with some of our younger players who still don't have the sense of urgency that you need to be able to go up and play when it comes to just doing their job.

We've won a lot of games around here being sort of relentless, competitive, overcoming adversity, keep playing the next play. Sort of have the mindset with tremendous intangibles. That is something that we have to earn and we have to keep growing and build on as a team That's something that we definitely want to finish the spring with. There are some teams that look it like we have two days left and then A-Day, so let's just take it easy and try to endure the practice. I want every player to go out there with the attitude that they want to get to benefit them as players and also to benefit their unit and our team.

we are going to remain supportive and help our player every way we can.

We don't condone this kind of behavior and certainly don't want our players to have these kind of issues or the victims to suffer any at all. I can't say any more than that.

I think it's worked out great (having Mike Locksley as offensive coordinator and Dan Enos as quarterbacks coach). I think the quarterbacks are getting a lot more immediate attention, self-gratification.

I think the best way to coach is when somebody makes a mistake or a good play is to get immediate feedback. That is the best way to learn. With the advent of up tempo offenses, players don't get coached as much between plays, because they have to go get lined up to get the signal for the next play.

I think Mike and Dan get along really, really well.

Both have been successful in the past. And I think both have a lot of respect for each other. I think it's worked out fine.

Tua had a little setback yesterday with his hand.

Doctors are trying to evaluate the the best course of action and what we will do with him the remainder of the spring. I can't tell you any more. He didn't take any snaps today. We are going to try to protect this thing and make sure this thing is not going to be an issue in the fall.

I think Mac Jones has made a lot of improvement. He's a guy who has to mature. He's very competitive. When you are a quarterback, how is what I am doing affecting my unit? So when things don't go well, you can't always show your emotions, show your disappointment. You have to be positive...we're going to get them on the next play. That's the part of his leadership we have to continue to work on. He's made more and more good plays. We feel really good about his development. We are just trying to get him to focus on being the best player he can be. The position he is in, he's not far from having to play.

We hate it very much when any player that we had here did a great job for us here at Alabama, great job in terms of how he represented our university, how he represented our program, the contribution he made to the program. We have a player, Reuben Foster, that has legal issues. I don't think I'm in a position to comment, because I don't know the details or the facts. One of the things we try to teach our players here is that there are consequences for good and bad behavior. But

Jalen Hurts has had a really good spring from the standpoint we have really have tried to focus on continuing to help him to develop confidence in the passing game. He has shown signs of being able to do that.. We want to continue to work on that. Sometimes you can't just think about making plays. You have to sort of make plays based on how they are designed and have some faith, trust and confidence in the people that are playing with you, that if you go through your progressions, that

is going to give us the best chance to make some explosive plays in the passing game. And when it breaks down, then you use your athletic ability to make up for it. I think he's done much better at that this spring.

Trevon Diggs (ankle) been able to practice all week.

I think he's a lot more confident this year in terms of understanding what he's supposed to do. As long as he stays focused and doesn't like just start staring at the quarterback and not doing what he's not supposed to do, which a lot of these guys made a lot of plays with their eyes in high school. But when you're in man to man, you have to watch your man.

You can't cover you're man if you're not looking at him. That's not the time to make plays with your eyes. So we continue to try to train our guys as to when you can make plays with your eyes and when you have to focus on the things you have to focus on to do your job in that particular coverage. He's gotten better at that. I think he can be a very, very good player for us. I'm encouraged by the progress he's made.

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

(205) 345-3737 (205) 345-6000 (205) 333-2633 Publix Shopping Center

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