U of Alabama BIG VISIT

Driving up to the parking lot, an adrenaline rush comes over me.  Large stadiums bring out the spirit of everyone from concerts to football.  The stadium is empty and securely locked up.  That doesn't stop me.  I begin knocking on multiple doors.  On the fifth door, a person opens the door with an expression of question.  Within minutes I am whisked inside and personally escorted to the heart of it all:  Alabama Crimson Tide football stadium.  Ninety-three years of incredible football with a record of 238 wins to 3 loses in this stadium.  Home advantage to the MAX!

Walking through the campus, admiring the layout and beautiful buildings I come to a door.  This particular door carries a plaque recognizing history at the front of it on June 11, 1963.  Governor Wallace defies a court order allowing blacks to attend the university by physically blocking the entrance through these double doors. 

President Kennedy sends in the National Guard.  The same evening the president goes on national television declaring civil rights is no longer a legal issue but a moral issue.  One week later, President Kennedy submits a bill that becomes the foundation of Civil Rights Act of 1964.  

In front of the auditorium are several plaques recognizing personal words of inspiring people.  After reading each one, I select two which inspires me.  

To close this day, I go on a scavenger hunt looking for Goldie!  Walking the many paths thought the 223-acre campus I come upon the giant.  I creep up quietly as I notice it is asleep.  No one wants to wake a sleeping giant.  Goldie was constructed by an alumni student, Joe McCreary.  His inspiration was the Sloss Furnaces I explored several days ago.  I tip toe past Goldie back towards my car as my day comes to a close at the University of Alabama!