Best of UAB 2021 by Kaleidoscope UAB

FAMILY WEEKEND INSIDE

Letter from the editor

aleidoscope is proud to finally release our Best of UAB issue for Family Weekend. The winners for this issue were voted on before the COVID-19 pandemic, but they’re still relevant to how UAB students live their lives after all this time. Students continue to live, shop, eat and hang out all over Birmingham. Hopefully this can help you find something new to check out on or near campus, especially students that haven’t been able to experience a “normal” year at UAB. Maybe those of you that have been around will just be happy to see your favorites in here. I’m excited for us to truly be back on campus and for everyone to get to experience the best parts of UAB, from the professors, to the food, to the shopping. This issue couldn’t have been possible without the help of UAB students who voted for their favorites. This issue might even help you find even more ways to spend Family Weekend by exploring the city and trying some of the best things Birmingham has to offer. Make sure to grab some food from MELT, voted Best Place to Take Your Parents, and head to the game to cheer on the UAB Blazers. Inside this issue you can also find Aura Literary Arts Magazine’s Spring 2021 issue full of art submitted by UAB students and others from Birmingham and across the Southeast. Thank you to all the students and families who pick up this magazine and enjoy your weekend!

Hannah Richey

Staff List Editor-in-Chief Hannah Richey

Managing Editor Caleb Wood

Copy Chief

Celia Shepard

Art Editor

Jada Nguyen

Sports Editor Tyler Szczudlak

Writers Juhee Agrawal Kamiyah Burks Grace Cortez James Goodman Lucy Graves Elizabeth Guffin Ja’Voris Hubbard Shalen Lawson Jeff Martin Daniel Morales Emma Owen Madison Prim Anjali Thotassery Jackson Ragland

Photographers Dawson Martin Julie Mauldin Cade Pair Cameron McPhail Hannah Warren

Table of Contents

Cover by Jada Nguyen

Campus Faves 9

Study Vibes Place to Cry

On-Campus Dining

Building Bathrooms

Faculty

Staff

College Department

Sorority/Fraternity Student Org

Place to Park Residence Hall

Local Hangouts

Place to Take Your Parents Place to Relax

Medical Center

Date Night

Place to Get Some Sun Off- Campus Housing

Place to Get Away

Place to Break a Sweat

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Best Eats

Sandwich Dive Bar Burger

Breakfast International Eats

Bargain Eats Vegan

Wings BBQ Pizza

Five Star Fast Food

Seafood

Coffee

Treat Yourself

Clothing Store

Grocery Store

Movie Theater Doughnuts

Ice Cream

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Thrift Store Grocery Store

Nail Salon Spa

Late Night Brewery

Place to Nap

CAMPUS Campus faves FAVES

Best College: College of Arts and Sciences Emma Owen

Students holding shakers and cheering in front of University Hall during Homecoming 2019| Photo courtesy of UAB Image Gallery

hat do performers, politicians and biologists have in common? The college of arts and sciences of course. With such diverse course options, it’s no wonder you chose CAS as the best school UAB has to offer. According to UAB’s website, there are more than 30 fields within the one school. If you don’t love CAS for the majors, you sure can appreciate the beautiful buildings its students take classes in. Much of the course work takes place in University and Heritage Halls. Nothing says ’Blaze On’ like floor to ceiling windows and elevators that are faster than the speed of sound. To the dancers, future immunologists and every other CAS major in between, congratulations on winning best school. Break a leg as you prepare to enter a world as unique as your college.

Best Department: Biology Ja’Voris Hubbard

iology: Whether you want to become an anesthesiologist, ecologist, teacher, or simply have an interest in discovering more about the numerous issues that the world is currently facing, the Biology department may be for you. UAB’s biology department is home to world-class scientists as well as one of the best research facilities in the United States. The department also provides opportunities for students to work in remote sites such as the Bahamas, Costa Rica, and even Antarctica. The graduate program is also ranked 62nd in the nation for the Best Graduate Programs, so it’s quite easy to see why the Biology Department was voted the best at UAB.

Student analyzing tick DNA in laboratory for the biology course called Tick Explorations taught by Dr. Heather McPherson | Photo courtesy of UAB Image Gallery

Best Study Vibes: Sterne Library Caleb Wood

s a UAB student, studying is virtually guaranteed to be a part of your routine. And there are few places as good a place to hit the books as Sterne Library. The original centerpiece of UAB’s campus since its construction in 1973, Sterne is home to three floors of great study spaces. The first floor is home to various community areas for group studying and the third floor is a quiet zone for when you need to buckle down. You can check out one of the library’s many study rooms or corrals for a more private option. Outdoor spaces along the Sterne-Humanities bridge allow for a bit of fresh air.

Students working on a group project in Sterne Library| Photo by Hannah Warren

Best Place to Cry: Sterne Library Caleb Wood

ith all that studying can occasionally come with a price, though. Sterne Library is the featured location of many UAB student’s midnight breakdown. A cry at Sterne is different than your usual cry, though, since this is not a heartbroken sob or weep of despair. Instead , this is an efficient, scheduled bit of relief. Take a moment in your corral, cry five minutes and then get back to work. Or, if you are a multitasker, cry over the pages of that Organic Chemistry textbook. A few tears shouldn’t be enough to prevent a rental return.

Student studying in the first floor of Sterne Library| Photo by Hannah Warren

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Hannah Richey

Best Faculty Member

Chris Perry

hris Perry is a former police sergeant turned game,” Perry said. “It’s kind of a game and they have to credentialed course instructor that engages immerse themselves in the sources. They have to really his students and meets them where they are, come up with a good argument for whatever we’re making him a great pick for the best faculty member at talking about, and I think they retain that information UAB. much more and it’s a lot of fun while you’re doing it.” Perry earned his If that kind of bachelor’s and master’s engagement isn’t enough degrees from UAB after to show why Perry is the he semi-retired from the best instructor, he also police department to said he wants to make sure take care of his children. his students aren’t taking He originally went back on additional stress in his intending to get a criminal class. justice degree but instead “I found that if I remove took to history. their stress, they’re not “I went back to school concerned. Or well, they’re found out that I was closer concerned — but not to a history degree so next worried — about making thing you know head in a terrible grade or failing. that direction and it’s the College students have best thing I’ve ever done. enough to deal with,” I just love sharing the Perry said. wonderful things about He also makes sure history with people,” Perry students who can’t afford said. a textbook can still get Becoming an instructor everything they need in wasn’t all too different for class for discussions and Perry, though. He taught exams. sexual assault prevent for “I always have the same women while a sergeant. speech that I’ll give when But he learned the teaching I come in I’m like ‘alright methods he uses now from Chris Perry teaching a western civilization course April 2021 | Photo so here’s the deal with sitting in the same seats his courtesy of UAB Image Gallery the books. We’re going students sit in now. to discuss all this stuff. “Dr. Walter Ward, Dr. Andrew Keitt and Dr. Brian If you can get the books, awesome. But I understand Steele at UAB inspired me and I kind of molded what you’re college students and you’re living on ramen I do around what they do, and I sort of took a little bit noodles. I know you’re you know walking across the from each one,” Perry said. street, especially at UAB hoping a car hits you so you can call Alexander Shunnarah and get rich. I mean, I get The teaching tactic he uses in his classroom, which he it, so I totally understand what you’re going through so learned from other professors at UAB, is called Reacting I’m not going to make you buy these books but we’re to the Past. This method actively involves students by going to discuss that information,’” Perry said. having them take on roles of historical figures to engage with history. With the level of effort Perry puts into his class to make sure students can succeed even if they may not do “What reacting does is it immerses you in that well with the standard exam and quiz structure or their timeframe, so you’re assigned a role, like in the French wallet may not allow it, it’s no surprise students would Revolution there’ll be people that support Louis XVI, select him as the best faculty member. there’ll be people that support the Jacobins and you have this higher faction of people that are trying to win the

Best Staff Member

Caleb Wood

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Amy Atkisson

my Atkisson had not planned to work in college affairs. Upon graduating from UAB, she set out to be a preschool teacher, only to return to her alma mater a few short years later.  Now, over 20 years since she first returned to the school, Atkisson serves the director of Honors Advising & Retention for the UAB Honors College, overseeing the advising process, honors recruitment and directing the Honors College Global and Community Leadership Program. It’s a bit of a lengthy title with an even longer job description, but for Atkisson, it’s a dream job.   “My goal for [my students] is to for them to love what they do as much as I love what I do,” Atkisson said.  On a daily basis, she might be appealing to high school seniors to choose UAB or preparing bags for an Honors College retreat or talking to a student in a one-onone advising session. But it is that last thing that she enjoys the most.   “I love being able to talk oneon-one and really getting to know students,” Atkisson said. “We’re supplemental advisors, which means that we don’t have to focus on a checklist as much as we can talk about everything, which is

her peers see as a bit out there, even giving out her personal cell phone number to students she advises.  “I’m also the person that I give everybody my cell phone number, and people have told me I was crazy for years,” said Atkisson. “I have never regretted giving out my cell phone number to my students. If they need me at two o’clock in the morning, I want them to have my phone number at two o’clock in the morning. No Amy Atkisson prepares bags for the Honors College’s annual retreat | student has ever Photo by Caleb Wood abused it.”  Those was the first one that fit.  student connections have “I came to UAB, and it was made an impact, as Atkisson was like, ‘Oh my gosh, there’s a place for selected as by our readers as the Best everybody here,” she said. “I still UAB staff member.   believe that and feel like that.”  It is a level And for Atkisson, she tries to of recognition that make it her job she is unused to to help students find their place at receiving. In our UAB. interview, she teared up talking about the honor. Atkisson has long dedicated herself to UAB, and she appreciates her school returning that recognition. UAB wasn’t even the school she intended to attend. It was the third school she attended as a student, but according to Atkisson, it

“My goal for [my students] is to for them to love what they do as much as I love what I do.”

nice. So, you can talk to students about their dreams, passions and goals and how they can get there. Not just a career but overall life.”  She makes herself available to her students in a way that some of

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Best Fraternity or Sorority: Sigma Kappa Caleb Wood

hile UAB may not be Alabama or Auburn, it’s still a Southern college and Greek life still has a presence on campus. While sorority Sigma Kappa is a recent addition to UAB’s Greek community, having only being been founded in 2015, it has a made a splash quite quickly. The sorority has placed a strong emphasis on philanthropy notably raising over $10,000 for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in 2017. While this devoted sisterhood’s contributions have helped others, its members memories will be its lasting marks. Sigma Kappa members walking on the sidewalk outside University Hall | Photo courtesy of Sigma Kappa

Best Student Organization: USGA Emma Owen

Undergraduate Student Government Association tabling inside the Hill Student Center | Photo courtesy of UAB USGA

s far as campus organizations are concerned, the student body holds the Undergraduate Student Government Association in high regard. They were your vote for Best Campus Organization. USGA’s mission states a priority of bringing a voice to the student body. Aiming to assist with large and smallscale issues, USGA teams up with students and school officials to bring awareness to concerns that are experienced within the UAB community. This organization is no stranger to helping their fellow Blazers, while also giving back to those in need. One of the organization’s most notable events includes Parking Amnesty Day. The disappointment of a campus parking ticket melts away with the purchase of some nonperishables to be donated to Blazer Kitchen. Whether it’s that reason or another, the student body sees USGA as the supreme student org.

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Best On Campus Dining: The Den Caleb Wood

hen looking for a late-night dining night destination at UAB, you don’t have many options. If you’re looking for someone that takes Dining Dollars, there’s only one choice: The Den. Luckily, The Den is your best choice of a restaurant on-campus. Offering a wide-range of choices from breakfast to dinner and dessert, there’s something for everyone. While it may be a brand of Denny’s, The Den is by no means a Denny’s. Sporting a modern décor, ample seating and more GrubHub pickup options for students, The Den modernizes diners for a college audience. So order a Chipotle Bacon Cheeseburger or a grand slam and get ready to talk into the night at UAB’s only on-campus diner.

Burger and onion rings with a milkshake from The Den| Photo courtesy of Campus Dining

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Best Building: University Hall Juhee Agrawal

University Hall from the Campus Green | Photo by Grace Cortez

niversity Hall is one of UAB’s newest buildings and was designed to replace the ailing Humanities building. University Hall is completely state of the art. With Bioswale water efficient landscaping, 300-seat auditoriums and several places to study or chat with friends, University Hall became the best campus building with its opening in the fall of 2019. It’s situated on the campus green and within a short walk to each residence hall, making it one of the most conveniently located buildings. It’s quite easy to see why University Hall is considered the best campus building that UAB has to offer.

Students in a Univeristy Hall classroom on the first day of classes August 2019 | Photo courtesy of UAB Image Gallery

Best Bathrooms: University Hall Juhee Agrawal

he bathrooms in University Hall, one of UAB’s newest buildings, do not disappoint. Inside the stalls, knobs wait to hold your purse or coat. Traditional paper towels sit adjacent to high-force hand dryers that can leave your hands feeling like fresh laundry in under 15 seconds. The smooth sink structure mirrors the water reservoir in front of the building. The neutral-

but-not-boring colors create a calm, comfortable environment. Most importantly, after washing your hands, you do not have to touch any surfaces within the restroom. There are no doors, but rather a winding hallway, which helps keep both your privacy and health in mind.

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The sign of Children’s Hospital is a noticeable feature on Birmingham’s skyline day or night. | Photo by Hannah Warren

Best Medical Center: Children’s of Alabama Jeff Martin

eroes: that seems to be what Birmingham’s Children’s hospital is all about. Going the extra mile, taking another step, saving lives. The staff at Children’s Hospital genuinely care for each patient in their own way. They represent hope within the city of Birmingham and across Alabama as a place that is capable of turning a hopeless situation into a miracle.

Children’s facilities are very advanced, as the new hospital was finished in 2012. However, modern technologies and medical equipment are only the bare minimum of what Children’s has to offer. Children’s is also one of the largest employers in the state of Alabama; they provide jobs for many residents of the Birmingham area as well as students from

Patients at Children’s of Alabama during Superhero Window Washers 2019 | Photos courtesy of Childrens of Alabama

local universities. Children’s is also known to partner with local organizations and sports teams such as the Barons to fundraise and raise awareness for many causes. Children’s is genuinely more than just another hospital here in Birmingham; it is a symbol of hope and good things to come.

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Best Place to Park: 16th Street Deck Hannah Richey

he 16th Street parking deck is probably the most reliable parking option on campus. It’s reserved for students living in campus housing and situated perfectly between freshmen and upperlcassmen housing. That way no matter where you live on campus your parking deck is nearby. You can run to your car to grab the phone charger you forgot or be there in just a minute to drive to work or to run off campus for groceries, food and more. The traffic in front of the deck also isn’t as hectic as some other decks meaning you don’t have to worry about getting run over or waiting forever at the crosswalks.

The glass and brick design of the 16th Street Deck elevates its appearance above your usual parking deck. | Photo by Hannah Warren

Best Residence Hall: Gold Hall Jackson Ragland

old Hall, previously known as New Freshman Residence Hall or just “New Fresh,” is a very popular choice when it comes to residence halls for incoming freshmen. Having been built in 2015, it is relatively new and is not far from the Commons. This makes it one of the best places to make friends. You can get lunch together next door and study together in the common areas. There are great amenities as well: a laundry station with areas to charge your phone or laptop while you wait for laundry, a microwave and mini-fridge in each room and vending machines for when you need a snack. Having these amenities can be a blessing for the residents. This residence hall has received many positive reviews about the cleanliness and politeness of its residents and resident assistants. This dorm hall was voted the best for a reason; it’s a great place to transition from living at home into living at college.

The residence hall formerly known as “New Fresh” set the standard for dorm styles that later residence hall McMahon Hall followed nearly exactly | Photo by Grace Cortez

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LOCAL HANGOUTS

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Best Place to Take Your Parents: MELT Tyler Szczudlak

their first restaurant back in their hometown. They knew Avondale would be the perfect fit since the area was becoming more and more popular and was close to UAB. The food is what they are known for. The concept behind MELT is simple: a modern twist on classic comfort food. The MELT menu has something for everyone, including vegetarians and vegans. They offer an assortment of vegan cheeses, fresh vegetables and glutenfree bread. MELT is a great family restaurant with a great atmosphere and great food. It will make the family happy and your wallets happier. Two people playing cornhole at MELT | Photo by Cade Pair

t can be challenging for a parent to say goodbye to their kid as they go off to college. One thing is for sure though: after moving all their stuff into their new dorm room, and after Mom keeps asking if her kid will be OK for the next year, the whole family will be hungry. A good place to take everyone is to one of the best family restaurants in the Birmingham area — MELT. Since 2011, MELT has been getting more and more attention thanks to their food and their franchise in general. Harriet Despinakis and Paget Pizitz created MELT as a food truck, and in 2011 they developed it into

MELT truck | Photo by Cade Pair

Best Place to Relax: At Home Hannah Richey

t’s no secret the best place to relax would be your own home. There may be plenty of places on campus where you can chill but at the end of the day you can never be as comfortable where you go to school as you can when you’re at your own place, away from school and other obligations. You can lay just about wherever you want as long as you don’t live with anyone and you don’t have to worry about getting

caught taking a nap. You also have the freedom to go without pants, which you cannot do on campus just to be clear. So go home early instead of staying over to go to the library or the Hill Student Center. Enjoy some Netflix or just take a nap in your own space rather than worrying about taking up a private study room just to watch Netflix or getting a sunburn on the Campus Green.

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Best Date Night: Vulcan Park Shalen Lawson

hat’s more romantic than an evening with a “burly, bearded, bare-bottomed man”? At least, that’s how VisitVulcan.com describes its beloved “original Iron Man” — which is partly why Vulcan Park shakes out as the best place to spend your date night. If the sheer magnitude of Vulcan, the world’s largest castiron statue, isn’t enough to impress that special someone, you can buy a ticket for a ride up the park’s elevator to explore the museum. Learn all about Birmingham’s rich history together — and maybe end the night with a stunning view of the city from atop Red Mountain. If the big guy can’t help set the mood, surely the stars and skyline will.

Vulcan Facts Vulcan is the largest cast-iron statue in the world at 56 feet tall and 101,200 lbs. The statue was Birmingham’s entry to the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. Vulcan wasn’t always gray. At one point he was painted rust red Vulcan Statue | Photo courtesy of UAB Image Gallery

The view from Vulcan Park | Photo courtesy of Corey Seeman

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Best Place to Get Some Sun: Campus Green Hannah Richey

hen it comes to getting some sun there’s no place more convenient than the Campus Green. You have a variety of seating or laying options on the Green. There are benches scattered around by the sidewalks, you can grab a blanket or towel and stay in the grass or under a tree, or you can set up a hammock and lay in the hammock park by Rast Hall. Even better, you get some sun on the Green just by walking to and from class. It’s also a great place to meet with The Campus Green from the balcony of the Hill Student Center | Photo by Julie Mauldin your friends to play frisbee, soccer or any other game while you get some much needed need to keep going, take your books outside and study vitamin D. Face it, you’ve been holed up in the library there. Just make sure to sit far enough away from the too long. Go outside and take a break, or if you really frisbee players so you don’t get hit.

Students relaxing on the Campus Green fall 2020| Photo courtesy of UAB Image Gallery

Off- Campus Housing: The Venue

Juhee Agrawal

short walk, car ride or bike ride away from campus, the Venue has it all. Whether you like seeing your roommates or prefer having personal space, there is a unit that will work with your personality and your bank account. A high-end apartment complex at an affordable price, the Venue has many fitness amenities with its

swimming pool, gymnasium and convenient location next to Railroad Park. Other amenities include their business center and large closets in each room. On Wednesdays, there are complimentary waffles for residents. The Venue smells like a hotel and brings a sense of calm into the often hectic energy of Birmingham.

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Walking trail at Red Mountain Park| Photo by Kamiyah Burks

Best Place to Get Away: Red Mountain Park Grace Cortez

ed Mountain Park is an excellent place to get away without going far or having to spend money. The park is located only 10 minutes from UAB’s campus; however, visitors feel as if they have left the city and entered somewhere far outside of busy Birmingham. There is much to explore in the 1,500-acre park. Red Mountain features many wonderful attractions including mountain biking trails, hiking trails and a dog park. There is also a zipline course, a sensory trail, an adventure tower, two city-overlooks and three treehouses on the park property. These excellent opportunities and activities provide park-goers with many options for their visit! Red Mountain Park has a deep history. People of all races and

backgrounds used to mine iron ore on the property. However, over time, the mountain became a geographical divider that separates many people of Birmingham by race and socioeconomic status. The park’s board of directors is aware of this issue today and seeks to change it. The organization’s mission is to “reclaim the land” and unite the neighborhoods and communities of Birmingham. Red Mountain also strives to educate others about the mining history that began on park property over 200 years ago. Red Mountain is the perfect park to enjoy gorgeous scenery, learn about Birmingham history, exercise out in nature, or simply take a break from the busy city. Go for a hike at Red Mountain Park| Photo courtesy of UAB Image Gallery

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Best Place to Break a Sweat: Campus Rec Ja’Voris Hubbard

hether you’re looking for a personal trainer, intramural sports or even a quick game of basketball with some friends, the UAB rec center is the place to go. Since its opening in May 2005, the recreation center has provided the UAB community with opportunities to access an incredible aquatic center, indoor track, fitness center, massage therapy, countless group exercise classes and so much more. Even if you aren’t looking to exercise, there are opportunities to play a quick game of pool with some friends and possibly even a dip in the hot tub. If that

UAB Campus Recreation Center | Photo by Grace Cortez

wasn’t exciting enough, the UAB recreation center was ranked in the top 20 for most amazing campus student recreation centers.

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what, where,

Friday Family Weekend Check-In

Come meet with UAB staff and collect your materials for family weekend

UAB Blazer Mixer

Enjoy some light refreshments and chat with representatives from the various colleges and schools as well other departments and services on campus who are all here to help your student get involved outside the classroom and be successful inside the classroom

Battle of the Blazers

Do you bleed green and gold? UAB’s University Programs Board welcomes families to join them in their first Battle of the Blazers. This epic event take place at Birmingham’s newly opened Bham Rage room, and will include Nerf Battle, Dodge-ball, Water wars, and more! *Participants must be 8 years or older* ** Pre-registration Required**

Rage Room- Lakeview

7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Family Game Night

3 - 7 p.m.

Join gg.UAB for a fun night of games and activities for all ages. Stop by the casino tables to play a few hands of 3 card poker, join our jumbo game, or play some more traditional video games.

Alumni Legacy Event

Hill Student Center

Alumni House

Saturday

Hill Student Ampitheater

Calling all UAB Alumni Family members. Join the National Alumni Society for light refreshments and a short program which will include our NAS president and other legacy families. Parents will then be given the opportunity to pin their UAB student with a special Legacy lapel pin.

5:30 p.m.

I Am A First Student Celebration

The Division of Student Affairs invites any students who are the first in their family to attend college to bring their family members and meet UAB faculty and staff who were first-generation students and hear about their educational journey. First-Generation students make up 20.5% of the freshmen class, come and meet other students, faculty and staff who know what it means to be a first generation student.

Hill Student Center Ballrooms C & D

5:30 p.m.

8:30 - 10:30 p.m.

Birmingham Excursions*

The City of Birmingham has many different attractions and events to ensure entertainment for the entire family. The Office of Parent & Family Services has worked with many of the local attractions to create Family Weekend rates. Choose your adventure with your registration!

Birmingham, AL

All Day

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and when University Recreation

Families will be able to access the Campus Recreation Center to start or end their day with some movement. Come take a lap on the track and see our new mural painted by UAB students, shoot some hoops, or find your equipment of choice in our fitness center. To enter the facility, you must bring your facemask, show your Family Weekend nametag, fill out a quick waiver, and enjoy your time at the Campus Recreation Center for free all weekend long.

UAB Campus Recreation Center

All Day

UAB Family Football Tailgate

Enjoy an afternoon of tailgate games, food and fun before going to watch the Blazers taken on Rice. Meet with representatives from across campus, experience Blazer Walk, the official welcome of the Blazers to Legion Field before the game, and hang out in Blazer Village. The Fan Zone inside Blazer Village will have interactives including inflatable games, temporary tattoos, face painting, photo opportunities, and more. Join in a competitive game of Bingo, experience UAB student talent and much more!

Protective Life Stadium, Blazer Village

10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

UAB Football vs. Florida Atlantic (tickets included with registration)

Come cheer on our Blazers as they take on Florida Atlantic University.

Protective Life Stadium

2:30 p.m.

Freshman Theater Showcase

The Freshman Showcase is an exciting event where freshman Theatre and Musical Theatre majors will grace the UAB stage for the first time. Please join us for an entertaining evening of monologues, scenes and songs as we celebrate and welcome these aspiring artists to the UAB campus. Limited seating will be available in the Sirote Theatre, but there will be a Live Stream and overflow seating in the Hill Student Center, Alumni Theatre.

Alys Stephen Center

7 p.m.

Sunday Birmingham Excursions*

Birmingham, AL

All Day

For the most up-to-date Family Weekend schedule check the website here:

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UAB Family Weekend Social Media Adventure Instructions

1. Follow the clues to find these locations around campus from the residence halls to Protective Stadium. 2. Snap a picture of any of your family members at each of these locations and post it to Instagram with #uabfamadventure. Multiple photos may be included per post, and we will count each photo for points.

3. The family with the most discovered clues will receive a prize package sponsored by the Office of Off-Campus Student and Family Engagement and the UAB Bookstore!

Clues 1. UAB has many dining options available on campus. Find the dining hall where students go and eat. 2. UAB's Creed exemplifies honor, integrity, service and excellence. Find the flames and you will find our Creed. 3. This is an easy way for pedestrians to cross University Ave without actually setting foot on the street. 4. Nothing goes better with UAB football than food! Find the tailgate and take a picture there. 5. Students of UAB come from hundreds of different countries around the world, find the location on campus where they are represented by their country's flag. 6. With the growing number of students, UAB is “building up”. Find the newest residence hall and take a picture with it. 7. If students spend too much time here, they may develop Gamer’s Thumb- take a picture here 8. Our newest academic building on campus, you can find it located on the southwest part of the Green. 9. Blaze the Dragon can be found in many places around campus. Find the bronze statue of Blaze. 10. Students and staff go here to run, play, and swim. Introduce yourselves to the front desk staff and snap a picture! 11. This sport field was named after Jerry D. Young, a former UAB administrator, who is responsible for the early development of the program. 12. UAB has a huge number of club and intramural sports. With teams like soccer, rugby, cricket, and ultimate frisbee, all calling this field home. 13. Where UAB Hoops lay, take a picture outside this large building. 14. Put on your ruby slippers and follow this road to Oz. Hint- it is hidden in the back of a mansion used for UAB arts programs. 15. There are three of these mermaid coffee shops on campus- find one and snap a picture. 16. This c.1901 building was once 2nd Presbyterian Church, and Martin Luther King, Jr. once preached here. Today it is home to programs for the University’s brightest undergrads. Take a picture outside! 17. Get one bonus point for each picture you take with a Blaze figure around campus (can be an image, statue, topiary, etc)- so keep your eyes out for UAB’s signature fire-breathing dragon! 18. This accomplished Dental Professor founded the UAB School of Dentistry, then was the VP of Health Affairs and Director of the Medical Center. He played a large role in the desegregation of the University Medical Center, and ultimately was the first president of UAB. Find his statue in Mini Park and snap a picture. 19. UAB is an ever-growing campus and it is important to keep track of where you are. This new interactive wall display in the Hill Center is here to assist you. 20. This office space is home to both Parent & Family Services and Off-Campus Student Services. Snap a photo in front of the space where off-campus students relax between classes.

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COVID-19 VACCINE POP-UP CLINICS

Scan the QR code for a list of when and where you can get vaccinated! For questions, email studenthealth@uab.edu.

Dear Reader, Thank you for reading our magazine. Working with Aura has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have learned so much and connected with so many incredible people. As Kafui will say below, this last year, we turned to art. Art allowed us to express the inexpressible. Art gave us a place to scream, cry, laugh, and connect. I hope that this issue creates a space for you to feel, to connect, and to grow. Thank you for reading. Ashley Michelle Tippit

Ashley Michelle Tippit Editor-in-Chief Dear Reader, During the year where it all fell apart, we turned to the arts. I don’t dare use the word ‘unprecedented’ in this letter to you, as I imagine you all have heard it time and time again. I don’t want to call the past year a “dumpster fire” or “unrivaled.” I don’t want to assume anything about this time for you because for many, this year has been full of hardships that I could not even fathom. Even through the hurt, we turned to art. As a kid sitting on the carpeted floor of our living room, my mom tugging a comb through my tight 4c curls as I bit back tears, she would talk to me about how there is so much beauty to be found in my hair, even when it is oftentimes painful. Though my stubbornness would like to keep me from admitting this, she was absolutely right. I have—sometimes painstakingly—learned to have a deep love and appreciation for my hair. The 7-year-old version of me would be in awe of 20-yearold me, loving myself and existing with self-confidence that I had only dreamed of through the characters I wrote. Welcome to 2021. We are not calling this year a fresh start or wiping all memories of the past 365 days from our minds. Instead, we are taking everything that we have been through, the good and the bad, acknowledging it, and channeling it into art in every form: art that fights for justice, art that comes from the depths of emotions, and art that is the purest expression of ourselves. We are not starting fresh with baby faces and naive grins but pushing onward, having grown with all of our experiences and trials, coming out the other side armed with satire and sculptures-- prepared to fight for our lives. Kafui Sakyi-Addo

Submissions Editor

Ashley Tippit || Editor-in-Chief Kafui Sakyi-Addo || Submissions Editor Sindhu Dwarampudi || Managing Editor Kyla Cowan || Social Media Coordinator Samuel Harris || Podcast Producer Jordan Blankenship || Short Fiction Editor Olivia Blanton || Creative Non-Fiction Editor Ashley Frith || Art Editor Anna Ulrey || Poetry Editor Elena Chesnokova || Reader/Copy Editor Anna LaCruz || Reader/Copy Editor Samantha Pittenger || Reader/Copy Editor

Recliner Ashley Frith acrrylic and charcoal on canvas

Table

Contents

Art

Catherine Davis

Caught in prayer 5 Spinning Prophecies 7 Storm 12

Mikayla Hammock moon and tide

Katie Justice

Poetry

Angie Bell

I Wonder 14

Holly Day

The Dog 13

Self Portrait With Human 12

Gavin Bourke

All Stars, untitled, b-boy, untitled, b-boy, untitled, Lo zaino e il pallone consumato di Marco & Le Crocs di Roberto, Sergio, Lo stendipanni, untitled, fabri fibra 17

Niels Hav

Mario Loprete

Maddie Manston

Two Paper Bags 16 Basis of Life 19 Self Portrait 20

Rosalia V. Reyes

The Neighbor’s Swing 7 The Spectacled Bear 8 La Ballerina 9 Plague Doctor 11

Purely Malignant 11 Aphasia 8

Adele Gardner Time’s

glass

Simona Shirley

Sealed Shut 6 Feathers and String 19

.João Luís Barreto Guimarães

A título de exemplo/By Way of Example 15 Acerca da poesia portuguesa contemporânea/ About Contemporary Portuguese Poetry 16

Sarah Adkins-Jablonsky Becoming 20

Dominique Weddle Three

becomes

One 14

Front and Back Cover Art: “Byodo-In Koi Pond,” Oil on Canvas, by Maddie Manston Coloration/Illustration: Ashley Frith Table of Contents Art: “melting point,” Acrylic on Canvas by Catherine Davis Special Thanks Art: “growth,” Pen and Ink Mikayla Hammock

Caught in prayer Catherine Davis pen and ink on paper

Sealed Shut

Simona Shirley Sealed shut, a box on stilts, stagnant, still, no arms no hands to pry apart the rusted metal of my shuttered mouth to the meek mutterings I no longer muster any strength— to share the secrets someone sent through a suited male through Monday’s mail a male who swung me open wide the mail he pushed far down inside the male who left. left me behind. No one retrieves the words I keep for no cares, and no one dares to look inside to look and see a muted message sits in me. A shuttered mouth still sealed shut, a box on stilts, I stand here. Still.

No one retrieves The words I keep For no cares And no one dares A muted message sits in me I stand here still A box on stilts A shuttered mouth Still sealed shut.

The Neighbor’s Swing Rosalia V. Reyes digital photography

Spinning Prophecies Catherine Davis based on collage, graphite and charcoal on paper

Aphasia

Translated by P.K. Brask & Patrick Friesen When you see a monkey banging a clam against a stone it is like seeing one’s self investigating a philosophical problem. No one can preclude that animals are cleverer than us, they manage life without words, we’re unable to do that. Silence leads us astray in a psychic labyrinth, words flicker through the brain like fish deep down; they constantly shift meaning. Each of us finds our self in a body; it is possible to make contact with caresses, but everything becomes more and more abstract. Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; the mind remembers the settlements in raw nature. Now we live with bookcases full of dictionaries, in nameless castles of air, on separate floors. What do you call that?

The Spectacled Bear Rosalia V. Reyes watercolor, colored pencil and mixed media

Time’s Glass

Adele Gardner Inspired by the video installation The Sister Act by

Charlotte Potter and Grace Potter, viewed by the poet

at the Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center in Hampton, Virginia. The video may be found under “Collaborative”

at www.charlottepotter.com. Look for the cover image of Harlequins and balloon suits.

I mark my time in increments, record each unit in my planner, judging days as good or bad by how much I’ve progressed toward goals that no one cares about but me. Each day’s anxiety prevents those goals, as time streams past around me, robbing life from ones so dear I’d rather time stopped dead than spend my wealth of days without their love. The Charles Taylor Arts Center in Hampton breathes light into my soul. I have an hour before their Friday close. We wander, rapt, my mother, me, exclaiming, overjoyed. This building, once the city’s library, with nooks and crannies, unexpected gems, now hosts the best Virginia artists offer. The tiny youth room’s music draws me in: a film, performance art by Charlotte Potter— “The Sister Act,” made with her sibling Grace— One sister-artist, one musician, joined: Balloons festoon their single, two-legged suit— it pops! with life! with light! those wonder-faces! as glowing orange glass bursts each balloon, till from that Union suit (two arms, two legs, one torso with two heads) step sisters twain, united still by their breathtaking art. 9

As Charlotte takes the stage with feats of glass, magician born of creativity, Grace Potter sings—the haunting melody (acoustic: woman’s voice, piano chords) erasing time as she sings “Timekeeper.” The Harlequins sway in time; they hold the glass— Charlotte’s portrait cameos of her and Grace— While Charlotte cuts the smooth black sheet, reveals Two separate sisters, side by side, alike. These stars, these sparklers hang from rafters, lit by wands of glass raised hot by female hands— a burst of life-affirming energy, the molten glass igniting stars, the floor, my soul with searing inspiration, love. Mom’s quiet. Fidgets next to me. She leaves before the video’s done. “The music pounds. It hurts my head.” I can’t believe that’s all she’s said about this film, which so astounds my soul, and lights a fire I’d long thought dead, so battered, bruised by marriage’s demands. I watch again to fill my heart with light— hold sparklers inside. But just as bright glow all these gallery tours I’ve shared with Mom.

La Bailarina Rosalia V. Reyes ink and graphite

Purely Malignant Gavin Bourke

Would always hinder, for nuisance-sake, continually sneering. Schopenhauerian, nihilistic, depressed, perverted, rejective, of everything. Full of jealousies and hatred. Selfish, severely, morally unrestrained, concealing great impotence, of body and mind.

Plague Doctor Rosalia V. Reyes mezzotint

Was glad, when people got ill, happier, when they died, at least, it wasn’t him. Would kill, if necessary, to achieve, selfish objectives. A male jezebel, the dogs, left his flesh and bones, when he fell, from the window, eventually. Left him, to rot slowly, in a pool, of his own impudence.

Self Portrait With Human Katie Justice

Ink

Storm Catherine Davis and scratch paper

The Dog Holly Day

My mother-in-law brought the dog home the day after I brought my baby home. The thing was huge, a great big standard poodle, fully grown with black eyes nearly covered in thick curly brown fur. It never made a sound, just watched everyone moving around the house, every once in a while asking to be let out the back door. The dog didn’t react at all to me or my son, didn’t come over to smell the baby, or greet me, or do anything different at all. It just watched us moving around the house, so quiet eventually running upstairs to hide in its crate when the baby’s cries were too loud. I never even thought of petting the dog never saw anyone else touch it, either, never could figure out why my mother-in-law had brought it home. I don’t even remember it having a name. A few months later, the dog was gone, and no one ever mentioned what had happened to it, why it wasn’t there any more why it had even been there in the first place. I remember walking around my mother-in-law’s house peering into side rooms, looking for the dog, the dog crate some random squeaky toy, a gnawed-on rawhide bone, anything belonging to a dog but it was like there had never been a dog in the house at all.

I Wonder Angie Bell

I wonder about the lives behind the doors of the broken down mobile homes with satellite dishes where inflatable Santas and plastic nativity sets decorate the weed worn yards in wishes Three becomes One Dominique Weddle acrylic paint on canvas

I wonder about the lives behind the white-teethed smiles in color-coordinated casual poses where bare feet and ripped jeans are on purpose and no one is missing no thorns in the roses I wonder about what could have been behind the future for good or ill where dreams evaporate and reality shifts then drifts back hard packed and still

moon and tide

Mikayla Hammock pen and ink

título de exemplo

João Luís Barreto Guimarães Nada contra os que partiram eu fui alguém que ficou. Apontaram-me o dedo (dei o meu corpo à mira) vieram pelo meu posto y way of example esvaziei-lhes o lugar. Nada contra João Luís Barreto Guimarães quem calou eu fui um dos que falaram – Nothing against those who left but I ataram-me os pés com corda was one who stayed. They pointed their fingers at me (com as pontas fiz um laço) (I put my body in their sights) destinaram-me a um canto they came for my room redecorei-o de flores. Nada contra I cleared a place for them. Nothing against anyone os que quebraram who stayed silent fui alguém que resistiu – I was one who spoke – quando me julgarem morto they bound my feet with rope vou-lhes tomar o país. (I tied a bow with its ends) when assigned to a corner I redecorated it with flowers. Nothing against those who broke down I was one who resisted – when they declare me dead I’ll take over this country.

Translated by: António Ladeira & Calvin Olsen

About Contemporary Portuguese Poetry

Acerca

Such beauty wasted when the museums are closed – at night no gaze is wandering the hallways there’s nothing left for the girls to do (in the loneliness of their frames) than to stir each other up. And how cruel can they be (the young ones mocking the old the skinny mocking the portly) both surrendering to the women (?!) on abstract canvases. Eager for attention they go on settling vanities straightening up each passing hour (in the illusion of their frames) fighting for the foolish attention of the same old night guard.

A beleza desperdiçada quando os museus estão fechados – à noite não há olhares percorrendo os corredores nada mais resta às meninas (na solidão das molduras) do que acirrar-se entre si. E como sabem ser cruéis (as novas zoando as velhas as magras zoando as fartas) umas e outras rendidas às mulheres (?!) das telas abstractas. Ávidas de atenção vão dirimindo vaidades compondo-se de hora a hora (na ilusão das molduras) para disputar a atenção néscia do guarda de turno.

João Luís Barreto Guimarães

da poesia portuguesa contemporânea

João Luís Barreto Guimarães

Translated by: António Ladeira & Calvin Olsen

Two Paper Bags Maddie Manston oil on canvas

Left Page (left to right): All Stars, concrete sculpture untitled, concrete sculpture b-boy, oil on concrete untitled, oil on concrete b-boy, oil on canvas

untitled, oil on wood

Lo zaino e il pallone consumato di Marco & Le Crocs di Roberto, concrete sculpture Sergio, oil on canvas Lo stendipanni, concrete sculpture Right Page: untitled, concrete sculpture fabri fibra, oil on concrete

Mario Loprete

Feathers

and

Simona Shirley

String String curls and it twists and it ties itself neat, but feathers fly free and they urge string to see how its wrinkles and knots and its complexities can reveal underneath New beginnings. New seas.

String uncurls and it loosens and feathers hook on like new leaves on a tree after winter retreat. The feathers unwind an upheaval of string, a code of creation alas is released. Oceans and countries and cities and reefs, together they build from the feathers and string, together they build. New beginnings. New seas.

Basis of Life Maddie Manston oil on canvas

Self Portrait Maddie Manston oil on canvas

Becoming

Sarah Adkins-Jablonsky

I am becoming a doctor in today’s pandemic in yesterday’s trailer parks and Medicare brochures. Mom and Dad, I will not take out loans for you but for the stories tangled up like my curly hair that always won against bristles of my little pink brush.

Contributors

Sarah Adkins-Jablonsky acquired a name, in 2020, that is hard to spell over the telephone, and will soon move her husband and two rats, Yamcha and Tibble, from Birmingham off to medical school in Dothan. Angie Bell was born in Georgia but raised in Florida where she recently returned after six years in Birmingham. She is a former teacher who loves hiking, photography, and writing, often combining all three. Gavin Bourke grew up in the suburb of Tallaght, in West Dublin. He is now married to Annemarie, living in County Meath. His work broadly covers nature, mental health, purpose, power, and urban/rural life. Catherine Davis is a young artist from Talladega. She is a studio art student at UAB and plans to be an art historian. Most of her inspiration comes from the horror genre and novels by authors such as Stephen King. Her works vary in focus, but she tends to focus on portraits and human figures. Holly Day has been a writing instructor at the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis since 2000. Her newest poetry collections include Into the Cracks, Cross Referencing a Book of Summer, and Book of Beasts. João Luís Barreto Guimarães was born in Porto, Portugal (June 1967) where he graduated in Medicine. As a writer, he is the author of 10 poetry books since 1989, and has been published in anthologies and literary magazines in over 19 countries. Translators: António Ladeira was born in Portugal in 1969. He currently lives in Lubbock, where he is an Associate Professor of Portuguese and Spanish at Texas Tech University. Calvin Olsen is an internationallypublished poet/translator, currently living in North Carolina, where he is a doctoral student and the poetry editor for The Carolina Quarterly. Adele Gardner has worked with her father, Dr. Delbert Gardner, a WWII veteran, to publish over 500 poems, stories, essays, and illustrations. Her debut poetry collection is titled Dreaming of Days in Astophel. Niels Hav has written seven collections of poetry and three books of short fiction, which have been translated into many languages. He was raised on a farm in western Denmark and now he resides in Copenhagen. Katie Justice is a M.A. art education student at UAB. She enjoys creating mixed media portraits that are full of pattern and personality. Justice currently teaches art at Huffman Middle School. Mario Loprete claims to “live in a world that I shape at my liking.” For his concrete sculptures, he uses his personal clothing, plaster, resin, and cement to transform them into artworks to hang. He says, “my memory, my DNA, my memories remain concreted inside, transforming the person that looks at the artwork, a type of post-modern archeologist that studies my work as if they were urban artifacts.” Maddie Manston is an studio art student at UAB with a painting concentration and a Spanish minor. Her work primarily consists of oil paintings, but she is also very interested in sculpture. The main subject of her works is “life,” whether it be nature or the human portrait. Rosalia Reyes is a B.F.A. student at UAB, concentrating in drawing at UAB. She grew up in the South, but her family immigrated from South America. Her artwork is a reflection of her dual upbringing, ranging from photography of southern settings to illustrations of Latin people and animals. This past year, Reyes has workshopped with southern photographer Maude Clay and contributed illustrations against lynching to the Legacy Museum. Currently, she is working on her upcoming 2021 BFA exhibition at Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts (AEIVA).

Simona Shirley is a junior pre-med student at UAB, majoring in international studies. She believes an appreciation for art, and its profound representation of the human experience, is necessary for every field of study. She enjoys writing and artistic expression as it offers time for reflection and fun at the end of a busy day.

S pecial T hanks

J ackie A lexander R hys F inch M arie S utton T aylor S tewart D ena P ruett T ina M ozelle B raziel V inegar S tudios A shley J ones J im R eed

Aura Literary Arts Review is printed by Advance Local in the quantity of 250 copies per issue. This issue is 24 pages in length. The editorial process is performed with Adobe InDesign CC. UAB Student Media Staff- Jackie Alexander, Director || Rhys Finch, Assistant Director Copyright 1964-2021 Aura Literary Arts Review. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any way, shape, or form without the express written consent of the artist. All rights to the work revert to the original creator after the publication in this magazine. To reach an artist regarding republication of material, contact the UAB Office of Student Media, HSC 130, 1400 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294.

Vol . 47 I ssue 1 S pring 2021

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BEST BEST EATS EATS

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Best Sandwich: MELT James Goodman

t’s rare to meet someone who can’t tolerate a grilled cheese. For even the pickiest eaters in this world, grilled cheese sandwiches are a go-to. MELT is a restaurant dedicated to grilled cheeses, turning grilled cheese-making into an art form. Their most famous sandwich — the holy grail of the grilled cheese — is the mouthwatering Mac Melt. Expertly crafted mac-n-cheese smooshed between two slices of Texas toast. Like so many beautiful, genius things in this world, it’s a simplistic masterpiece. MELT sits next to Avondale Park. It has more than grilled cheese sandwiches, with amazing burgers, salads and other sandwiches to choose from. Their fries are great, too. If you were going to

MELT has you covered for all things cheese| Photo by Cade Pair

decide on one thing to get from there, though, you’ve got to try the grilled cheese sandwiches, specifically their Mac-Melt. It’s award-winning.

Best Dive Bar: Jack Brown’s Lucy Graves

ou can depend on Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint for a solid drink at any hour. They stay open until 2 a.m. every day of the week. With over 100 local beers cycled through roughly every 2-3 months, they have something for everyone. They also offer a fun riddle game on the bottom of a beer cap, and winners get a free fried Oreo. They have a

mix of songs playing for everyone to enjoy and always provide a space to have a good time with a group of friends. On sunny days, we recommend the patio out back. For those who are hungry, check out the winner of Birmingham Magazine’s Best Burger!

Best Burger: Jack Brown’s Lucy Graves

ack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint offers a variety of tasty burgers. They have a different burger every day of the week — even on Sunday, with the daily burger’s buns being two glazed donuts. They have eight specialty burgers that they serve every day, one of which is even topped with peanut butter. Our favorite is the “Greg Brady,” a burger topped with

BBQ chips, scratch-made mac n’ cheese and a slice of American-Cheddar blend cheese. They have fantastic fries and an even better beer selection to go along with a great burger. They are open until 2 a.m. every day, so this is the perfect joint for late-night college students looking to grub.

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Best Wings: Buffalo Wild Wings Juhee Agrawal

he smell of wings greets you as soon as you emerge from your car at Buffalo Wild Wings. Located a stone’s throw away from Railroad Park, the classic wing stop is a shining star in the Magic City. On Tuesdays, students can look forward to the buyone-get-one-free deal on traditional wing plates. For the faint of heart, the classic parmesan garlic and honey BBQ wings are good choices. For those who think that chili peppers are sweet, the Mango Habanero sauce may be your calling. At B-dubs, you can watch sports from any seating arrangement without having to turn your head. Pro tip: when ordering wings, ask for the onion ring dipping sauce on the side — it is a game changer.

An order of wings and onion rings from Buffalo Wild Wings | Photo by Cameron McPhail

Best BBQ: Saw’s Daniel Morales

ffectionately named after owner Mike Wilson’s nickname, “Sorry Ass Wilson,” SAW’s barbecue has been serving high quality, affordable barbecue food. SAW’s began in 2009 in Homewood’s Edgewood neighborhood when an older BBQ restaurant announced its closing. This prompted current owner, Mike Wilson, to seize the opportunity to bring his BBQ to Homewood. SAW’s has gained national notoriety, with outlets like Men’s Journal calling this Homewood BBQ joint the “Best Barbecue in America.” Popular menu items include ribs available in half and whole slabs as well as “Stuffed Taters” filled with bacon, pork and barbecue sauce.

Best Pizza: Slice Daniel Morales

ocated on 29th Street South, Slice Pizza provides high quality pizza and a wonderful atmosphere. As stated by brothers and creators Jeff, Jason and Chris, Slice pizza was created as “a place not just to eat, but to hang out.” Pizzas range in style and price, anywhere from the Basic Pesto pizza to Wing & A Prayer. Slice also holds an event called “SliceFest,” where artists are welcomed to perform to people who purchase tickets. Slice states on its website that SliceFest has donated over $60,000 to Birmingham based nonprofits. A highlighted fund is the Suki Foundation, which was created to improve the lives and bring awareness to children with Rett syndrome and other neurological disorders.

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Best Coffee: OHenry’s Coffees Shalen Lawson

omewhere between a mom-and-pop café and a coffee chain that you can find on every corner lies OHenry’s — the best place to get your caffeine fix. With four locations in the Birmingham area, OHenry’s Coffees has been serving up “Coffee, Connection, and Community since 1993.” For us, it’s our go-to spot for a quick chat with a side of cold brew — or a hot beverage if you’re still into that. And if that coffee shop ambiance is not quite your vibe, you can get OHenry’s goods and merchandise delivered right to your front door — handmade mugs, fresh scones and even home brewing tools. Perhaps that unique blueberry coffee will taste even better coming from your own kitchen.

The OHenry’s storefront | Photo by Grace Cortez

K aleidoscope’s Pick: Red Cat Coffee House

Grace Cortez

Red Cat embraces a more traditional coffee shop experience with its chalkboard menu and unique house drinks | Photo by Kamiyah Burks

ed Cat Coffee House first opened its doors in 2008, and it has not slowed in making the perfect cup of coffee for the people of Birmingham. The coffee house has two locations, one in Pepper Place and one location by Railroad Park. Red Cat is open daily and offers coffee, craft beer, wine, fresh smoothies and tea. Additionally, breakfast and lunch options are available. The ambiance of both locations is warm and inviting. The coffee shop inspires productivity but also welcomes guests to sit together and chat Red Cat also supports the UAB community. Red Cat is one of the local businesses that has pledged its support to “UAB United,” a UAB COVID-19 resource. The coffee house warmly welcomes UAB students into its spaces. It is a place for students to get work done, study together or just sit and get to know one another.

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Best Breakfast: Original Pancake House Anjali Thottassery

he Original Pancake House began as a family business in Portland, Oregon before expanding to over 100 franchises all around the country. The restaurant is now a standout among existing breakfast restaurants and is now a highlight of our lively Five Points. This spot is perfect as an early-morning breakfast spot or a midmorning brunch spot since it opens early at 7

a.m. and closes around 2 p.m. Make sure you stop by whether you are an early bird or like a later start in the day. No matter what time you are ready for breakfast, the Original Pancake House is there for you. You can choose from around 20 options along with famous specials that you have to try like the Apple Pancake and Dutch Baby.

Best International Eats: Ikko Hannah Richey

kko is the go-to place Ikko serves the best ramen and sushi in Birmingham. | Photo by Julie Mauldin to get all of your Japanese favorites. With ramen, sushi and poke heavily featured in the menu, you’ll be sure to find something to love. You can order a poke bowl from the menu or build your own just like a burrito bowl. Ikko also has a great selection of milk tea. It’s only a short walk from campus, so you can stop by while walking around fivepoints with your friends. Their sushi choices include raw and cooked rolls along with a roll to visit with your friends, whether you more than $15, and if you really named after UAB’s own mascot you’re shopping around Five Points need to watch your wallet, the Blaze. If you’re not a particularly or want to sit down for a filling appetizer menu offers a few bargain adventurous eater, they also offer meal. Most of the menu won’t cost eats. fried rice and soba. It’s a great place

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Best Bargain Eats: Al’s James Goodman

his is a place that has a very special place in the hearts of many UAB students: Al’s Deli and Grill. The menu has enough options that you could eat something new every day for half a year and their customizable stuffed baked potatoes, known as “Bakers,” are out of this world. Don’t expect to be spending much either; Al’s high food-to-price ratio combined with them Find the best bargain at UAB when you go to Al’s Deli and Grill. | Photo by Cameron McPhail accepting Blazer Bucks has a way of pulling people toward some fries, sings out nostalgia to all makes this place a dream the eatery. ages, literally sits on our campus, is for UAB students. Perhaps it’s a combination of rich with culture, and the Bakers are There’s something about it, things; it’s a local original, has a just so damn good. If you haven’t though, besides the great, low-priced classic diner decor that smacks you tried it, you’ve got to. It’s a sort of food, that makes it stand out. Some in the face with the desire to eat UAB initiation. sort of spirit hangs around Al’s that

Best Vegan: Golden Temple Madison Prim

olden Temple is a free-spirited and charming grocery and café located in Five Points South. The store’s eclectic range of products includes everything from vitamins, herbs and supplements to natural and healthy grocery items. Not to mention a beautiful display of jewelry, oils, health books and more. Even though Golden Temple’s café is adjacent to the store, it seems to be its own unique entity. Its menu features a wide range of nourishing and healthy options that cater to vegan, vegetarian and plant-based diets alike. Serving everything from smoothies and organic juices to soups, salads and sandwiches, it’s a perfect place to visit when you want to treat yourself to a nutritious meal.

What to Order Golden Temple Stack Veggie Chicken Sandwich Guacamole Sandwich Iced Peppermint Tea

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Best Seafood: Fish Market Caleb Wood

Fish for sale like these are half of the Fish Market business alongside its locally renowned restaurant. | Photo by Hannah Warren

his Southside-based restaurant and seafood market, The Fish Market, may be located hours away from the beach, but with the fish they carry, you might have a hard time telling. The offerings go far beyond your average seafood restaurant, though. Owned and operated by Greek immigrant George Sarris, the restaurant integrates Mediterranean ingredients, techniques and recipes. This heritage comes across whether you’re eating paella or just a Greek salad on the side.

The Fish Market is conveniently located to campus in a converted warehouse at 612 22nd Street

South and is a perfect location for an off-campus lunch or a dinner when your parents come to visit.

A ship display inside Fish Market | Photo by Hannah Warren

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Five Star: Highlands Bar and Grill Tyler Szczudlak

The Highlands makes for a great date night spot. | Photo by Grace Cortez

ou finally got a date with the person you have been dreaming about, and you want to impress them. The only question is, how would you do that? Highlands Bar and Grill is a great place to go for dinner. Rated #1 out of 576 restaurants in Birmingham on TripAdvisor and with an average of 5 stars from almost 900 reviews, this is the place to get dinner out in

Birmingham. Pardis and Frank Stitt, the married couple who own this establishment, have quite the reputation, too. Chef Frank Stitt has traveled the globe to learn the cooking skills he has today, and, in 2009, won the most distinguished award that can be given to an Alabamian, membership in the Alabama Academy of Honor. His

wife Pardis, who oversees frontof-house operations, always shows off her southern charm and warm welcomes to customers who walk in to eat at the Highlands Bar and Grill. Highlands Bar and Grill offers an ever-changing seasonal menu of French-inspired Southern cuisine served in an elegant setting.

Best Fast Food: Chick-fil-a Jackson Ragland

hick-fil-A is a fast-food restaurant with locations all over the U.S. The closest location to UAB is in Five Points. They have a wide variety of products on their menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The first Chick-fil-A was established in Hapeville, Georgia. Their chicken sandwich is considered the first commercially sold chicken sandwich. Georgia celebrates this restaurant by having multiple themed Chick-fil-A restaurants around the state with themes like Hawaiian and 1950s diner; they even have one made out of

shipping containers in Rome, Georgia. The restaurant is a staple of fast food all around the country because they are quick and have excellent service. The line could be wrapped around the building, and you would still be in and out in 30 minutes, tops. Make sure you try it out if you haven’t; they have amazing options no matter the time of day. The easiest thing to try for a first- time experience would be their original chicken sandwich.

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TREAT YOURSELF

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Best Clothing Store: Target Elizabeth Guffin

ver the past five years, Target has determinedly grown its clothing brands, bringing a wide variety of options at a good price. With brands like A New Day, Wild Fable, Original Use, Ava & Viv, Goodfellow & Co and Prologue, the options are endless. The affordability that Target offers makes it a great deal for college students who want to access better quality clothes that can showcase their unique style for any event or life experience. Target has also made a commitment to representing and highlighting styles that are inclusive to many sizes. Whether you’re looking for an outfit for work or for a concert, Target has it all!

Target clothing section | Photo by Cameron McPhail

K aleidoscope’s Pick: Plato’s Closet Grace Cortez

lato’s Closet is a retail franchise that buys and sells used clothing. The store is consistently stocked with stylish clothes, shoes, and accessories that are affordable and like-new. Employees only buy namebrand or trending pieces from a customer’s collection, and these standards provide shoppers with an excellent selection of soughtafter pieces. Plato’s consistently carries popular brands such as Free People, Lululemon, Adidas, Levi’s, Vans, and American Eagle. Plato’s has a college-friendly price point, which makes for a less stressful shopping experience. Also, as mentioned above, Plato’s buys its clothes from customers. This is a great way to earn quick cash for unworn items, especially

for the busy college student. There are two Plato’s Closet locations in the greater Birmingham area, and nine total locations in the state of Alabama. By shopping at one of these locations or any Plato’s store, it contributes to sustainable fashion because the reselling of used clothes is a form of recycling. Someone else’s unwanted clothes go back on the rack for another person to enjoy instead of ending up in a landfill.

Outfit from Plato’s Closet | Photo by Emma Owen

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Best Thrift Store: Lovelady Anjali Thotassery

he Lovelady Thrift Store is funded by the Lovelady Center, a faith-based residential facility whose mission is to better equip women as they return to society from prison. This main focus developed after the founder noticed the high likelihood of convicts to reoffend after leaving prison. The thrift store offers gently used clothes, furniture, shoes and more at affordable prices. The money earned from sales goes toward helping the Lovelady Center run and provide necessary job training Lovelady employees returning clothes to the rack | Photo by Julie Mauldin and other skills that abide by thrift store filled with donated items is a major source their mission statement to their clients. of funding for their services. Make sure to shop and The Lovelady Center aims to help loads of women donate! and children through their different services. Their

Best Grocery Store: Publix Kamiyah Burks

ublix Super Markets is a grocery store chain unique to the southeastern states in the U.S. Publix is mostly recognized for their work culture and top- notch service and products. This recognition does not fall short of the downtown Birmingham location, located just outside the UAB campus. Publix is considered a necessity to UAB students due to its convenient proximity to campus as well as all the different items and services they offer. You can grab a quick bite to eat from the deli. Anything from a sub sandwich to a roasted chicken is available to be prepared for customers who may not want to prepare their own meals. The associates at Publix all clearly care about the customers and are very knowledgeable about the products they sell. They always go out of their way to ensure an efficient and productive shopping trip for their customers in order to support their motto “Publix: Where Shopping is a Pleasure.” The workers and the overall pleasant experience are what keep people coming back to Publix.

Publix: Where Shopping is a Pleasure | Photo courtesy of Mark Mathosian

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K aleidoscope’s Pick: Aldi

Hannah Richey

Aldi storefront | Photo by Kamiyah Burks

here are plenty of grocery stores to choose from around the UAB area. However, Aldi continues to have some of the best prices around. Other grocery stores are too large to navigate easily or require you

to check for all the deals and coupons they have that week. Aldi keeps their groceries at affordable prices without the need to do the extra hunting. The store is smaller than most grocery stores, which makes it much easier to navigate and makes it feel like the shelves don’t tower above you like they do in other stores . They also offer a good variety of vegan- and vegetarian-friendly meat replacements that rival other larger brands. There are also various special- offer items that rotate out. You can find things for your garden, necessities for your kitchen, toys and more.

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Best Ice Cream: Big Spoon Creamery James Goodman

rtisan ice cream — that’s what you get at Big Spoon Creamery. It is as if fine dining food art made its way into the ice cream world. This should come as no surprise, as the two owners formerly worked at Bottega in Highland Park. Every scoop of their ice cream brings a unique blast of rich flavor. It’s not regular ice cream, y’all. You’ve just got to try it to find out what we’re talking about. If a flavor says it has peanut butter, Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Puffs or tangerines, you best bet they will be present within the ice cream.

There is no artificial flavoring going on here. They source their ingredients from local farmers, so you can support local agriculture when buying their products and rest assured that you are consuming quality organic ingredients. Big Spoon has many different unique flavors to choose from and also offers “Sammies”— ice cream sandwiches— if that is more your style. If there’s a flavor we’d recommend, it would be the fanfavorite Snack Time. It has got all sorts of crazy stuff thrown in.

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Best Nail Salon: Vestavia Nails Caleb Wood

good mani-pedi is hard to find. Luckily the team at Vestavia Nails can help you out in a pinch. The nail salon on Rock Ridge Road offers manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, waxing and more. A friendly staff is there on hand to walk you through the process and navigate you through the

many options that they offer. The staff at Vestavia Nails can help you drift in a state of tranquility as nails go from drab to fab. Whether you are walking out with acrylics or freshly waxed eyebrows, you’ll leaved satisfied.

Don’t just take it from us. Here’s what the reviews say... “Vestavia Nails is my go to for nails and pedicures! It is a beautiful, clean store. I love the family atmosphere and feel very at home and welcomed every time I go in. Tu and her husband are amazing business owners and a valuable asset to our community!” - Mary Jane Coker, Google Reviews

“I tried this place for the first time today and absolutley loved it! I didn't have a appointment and it didn't matter, they welcomed me right in. My pedicure was awesome and I really like that they started on my nails while I was getting a pedicure. My nails look fabulous and the girl I had was very detailed and very good. I will definitely go back.” - Rachel Hudson, Google Reviews

Best Spa: Massage Envy Grace Cortez

assage Envy is a wellness franchise that focuses its services on contributing to a guest’s whole-body health . The franchise offers massage, stretch therapy and skin care services. Each guest that walks through the doors is greeted with positivity and empathy. There are three Massage Envy locations in the Birmingham area. At all of these locations, the staff overall is personable and strives to cater to each guest individually. Massage Envy offers memberships which help cut the cost of services for frequent customers. Booking appointments with a franchise location is easy. Appointments can be scheduled online, where guests can even make an account on their website.

Photo by Julie Mauldin

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Best Movie Theater: AMC Vestavia Jeff Martin

estavia is home to the pinnacle of movie theaters with the AMC Theater. This theater offers a wide variety of services that make it one of a kind. This theater has an extensive menu that includes full meals, an arcade that would grab the attention of anyone and a luxurious movie- watching experience. The screening rooms have stadium seating for an unobstructed view of the movie no matter where you are sitting. The chairs are cushioned and can recline. You can also order drinks and food directly to your chair during the movie for an effortless snack while not missing a minute of the movie. This theater offers the best

AMC Vestavia Hills offers a full bar | Photo by Hannah Warren

of the best when it comes to watching movies, leaving customers excited and ready to come back. So if you are going to enjoy a movie, why not do it the right way and see it at the Vestavia AMC?

Luxury seating and in-theater dining set the AMC Vestavia apart from other local movie theaters. | Photo by Hannah Warren

There are many refreshments available at AMC Vestavia Hills| Photo by Hannah Warren

Best Doughnuts: Heavenly Donut Company Elizabeth Guffin

hether you’re a fan of classics or adventure, Hero Doughnuts has it all. With a brioche-style to start with, they have a wide range of flavors from fruity to salty to sweet and savory and are up for trying new flavors. Flavors include blueberry crumble, cereal milk and even bread pudding! They even have a killer breakfast

and lunch menu. Starting out as a pop-up in Birmingham, Hero Doughnuts quickly grew a huge fan base. Now there are several locations, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Between the freshly made donuts and the cozy atmosphere, it’s no wonder that it’s a UAB favorite.

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Best Late Night Eats: Al’s Deli and Grill Grace Cortez

l’s Deli and Grill is the perfect restaurant for a late-night bite to eat! Open until 11 p.m., one can always depend on Al’s for a filling meal with fast, friendly service. Al’s first opened in 1999 and has continued to stay popular in Birmingham since. The atmosphere is home-like and inviting, with great indoor and outdoor seating options. It is the perfect place to grab dinner with a fellow Blazer or meet up with a group of friends. Al’s is one of the classic campus restaurants that is always there when you need it. When the restaurant first opened, its menu focused on Mediterranean cuisine. Today, Al’s continues to serve its delicious Mediterranean food alongside new additions to the menu. Guests can order

Al’s Deli offers a variety of food | Photo by Cameron McPhail

anything from falafel and kabobs to a cheeseburger, chicken fingers or chicken salad. The menu also includes enjoyable dishes such as baba ghanouj, mahi-mahi

sandwiches, chili cheese fries, veggie burgers and gyros. Al’s truly offers an array of dishes, all of which are delicious!

Best Brewery: Good People Hannah Richey

ood People Brewing Company has been brewing since 2008, and it’s no surprise that they’ve become a staple for many people. They offer a variety of brews in their mainstay collection, with the most iconic arguably being the Snake Handler, which features a silhouette of its namesake on the can. They also create seasonal and limited- time brews that you can catch at their taproom on 14th Street. Good People Brewing Company also contributes to

local causes. Recently, a portion of the sales of their IPA went to Red Mountain Park. Their brews are served on tap in many locations around Birmingham or can be bought in packs in grocery stores all across the state. If that isn’t enough, they also host Tuesday yoga (which comes with a pint of beer) for $10. Just make sure to bring your own mat.

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Best Place to Nap: Your own bed Caleb Wood

long day of classes, clubs and other stuff are going to leave you tired. A nap in your own bed is only way to get a couple hours of good sleep between classes. Napping on the green is going to just give you ants. Napping in your car is a guaranteed way to a stiff neck. With your bed, you are the master of your of your domain. You can control the noise level. You can set the heat to whatever level you want. You can just cut yourself off from the world. It’s truly the best way to catch a couple of zzz’s before your 3:30.

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