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We Speak Up For Abused & Neglected Children Support | Protect | Advocate

More than 14,000 of Alabama’s most vulnerable children are attending court hearings, adjusting to new homes and navigating the child welfare system every day. CASA volunteers are trained to advocate for the best interests of these children. Our goal is to provide a dedicated CASA volunteer for every abused and neglected child to give them a voice and help them thrive in a safe and loving home. With your support, TOGETHER WE WILL ACHIEVE THAT GOAL .

To Become a Volunteer or Donate (205) 325-5019 | CasaofJeffersonCounty.org 120 2nd Court North Birmingham, Alabama 35204

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Kali McNutt | kali.mcnutt@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Denise K. James | denise.james@lifestylepubs.com

Giving Thanks By Giving Back

Matthew Endersbe

BIRMINGHAM, WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR THIS YEAR? When we look

L AYO UT DESIGNER

around, we have so many reasons to count our blessings.

Zane Smith

You’ve probably seen the results of nation-wide surveys and assessments that consistently rank Birmingham as one of the most charitable cities in America. This month, we profile four inspiring nonprofit leaders who put in the work to ensure

AD DESIGNER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Denise K. James, Erin Howett, Matthew Adams CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nicole Du Bois, David Smith, Michelle Griffo

those charitable dollars meet the needs in our community. We are also excited to share with you the stories of Alvin Garrett and Ashley Jones, artists who use their incredible gifts of creativity and storytelling to benefit those younger and less fortunate. Last Thanksgiving, Covid derailed my family’s already downsized plans for a very small outdoor gathering. Instead, we dressed up, cooked an assortment of dishes from the New York Times Cooking app and had a quiet lunch à deux. New dishes from Civil Stoneware, a fabulous arrangement from Gaia, and chic tapered candles from Shoppe kept things feeling festive.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

This year, we look forward to gathering with both sides of our family-from Alabama

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

and abroad-perhaps over a huge pot of cassoulet (see page 32 for a local rendition

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

of this French classic!)

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Here’s to a joyful season of giving thanks for our blessings big and small. And, I hope

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

you’ll join me in finding new ways to put that gratitude into action by giving back to worthy causes in Birmingham. What are you most grateful for this year? Tag us or DM us on Instagram @birmingham.lifestyle. We’d love to share your thoughts!

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Kali McNutt, Publisher

ON THE COVER Cassoulet Our Way, p. 32

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE DU BOIS 4

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Proverbs 3:5-6 Birmingham Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Birmingham areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Birmingham Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2021

FEATURES 10 Giving Back to Birmingham Meet Local Philanthropists Who Make the Difference

16 On That Note Grammy-Nominated Alvin Garrett Gives Back to Future Artists

20 Head South for Winter Kiva Dunes Resort and Fort Morgan are Must-Visits During Off Season

26 Words of Encouragement Alabama Poet Laureate Ashley M. Jones Believes in Art for the Community

10 16

26 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Local Limelight

26 Hometown Hero 28 Healthy Lifestyle 32 Culinary Creations

W I L L I A M Portraiture

R U S H T O N

Sculpture

Still Life

2 0 5. 224 . 53 0 0 // C A N A RYG A L L E RY L L C . C O M // 22 01 2 N D AV E N // B I R M I N G H A M , A L A B A M A , 352 0 3

C E L E B RAT I O N O F 7 T H Y E A R AS A G A L L E RY

GOOD TIMES 1.

Birmingham Committee on Foreign Relations Hosts CNN's Josh Rogin CNN political analyst and Washington Post opinion columnist Josh Rogin spoke to the Birmingham Committee on Foreign Relations at a book event on his recently released book “Chaos Under Heaven: Trump, Xi, and the Battle for the 21st Century.” The event was free and open to the public, and included a private reception for BCFR members. Photos by David Smith and Michelle Griffo. Learn More: birminghamcommitteeonforeignrelations.org

10.

11.

12.

1. Rogin and BCFR Board Chair Kali McNutt | 2. David Matthews and Ben Hardman, students at Samford | 3. BCFR Young Leader Banks Stamp of UAB speaks with BCFR members | 4. Caroline Drummond and Juan Uriburu Quintana speak with Josh Rogin | 5. BCFR Young Leaders and student volunteers (L-R) Grace Friar, Grayson Murray, Banks Stamp, Arshnoor Grewal, Anjali Thottaserry and David Matthews | 6. Q&A with Rogin and McNutt | 7. Rogin speaks with BCFR members | 8. Pre-event reception for BCFR members | 9. New BCFR member L. Vastine Stabler | 10. Katherine Pearson speaks with BCFR Young Leaders Grace Friar and David Matthews, both students at Samford | 11. BCFR Members Henry Joe and Theo Theodorakoglu | 12. BCFR members interact with Rogin 8

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

Tom Beckbe Opens in Mountain Brook Village Tom Beckbe, the quintessential American sporting apparel brand, recently opened its flagship store in Mountain Brook Village. The brand is known for it's chic, wear-anywhere signature waxwear. The grand opening featured delicious bites and cocktails by Chef Rob McDaniel of Helen Restaurant. www.tombeckbe.com | social: @tombeckbe

We Want to Know.

Who Represents the Best in Birmingham?

SCAN TO NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/BIRMINGHAM-AL CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

LOCAL LIMELIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

L I N D S AY L A N D R U M EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CASA OF

MEET LOCAL PHILANTHROPISTS WHO MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

JEFFERSON COUNTY CASA of Jefferson County — the abbreviation for Court Appointed Special Advocates — has a special mission for staff and volunteers: to advocate for children who have been victims of abuse and/or neglect and effectively be their adult “voice.” Maintained by a small team of six, including current Executive Director Lindsay Landrum, as well as many dedicated volunteers, CASA ensures children suffering from neglectful, abusive or otherwise unfit homes are placed into caring environments so they can thrive. Cases are assigned by judges on an individual basis, according to Landrum, and, because CASA is split into two courthouses in Birmingham and Besssemer with just three staff members at each, training volunteers and boosting morale is consistently important. Landrum, who has been in the nonprofit world for almost 12 years, earned her experiences through living in Denver, Colorado and Sioux City, Iowa and working for two city shelters: Urban Peak and the Warming Shelter, respectively. At the Warming Shelter, Landrum raised funds publicly and privately and grew the staff before relocating to Birmingham in 2020 with her family. By that time, the Landrums had adopted foster children of their own, and Lindsay Landrum was ready to embrace her new role at CASA. “Everything I’ve done has led me to this position,” she mused, smiling. “I guess you could say the stars aligned.” Casaofjeffersoncounty.org

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

Giving Back to Birmingham

GARRETT HARPER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, URBAN MINISTRY The mission of Urban Ministry — to serve the residents of Birmingham’s West End — is carried out daily, thanks to dedicated staff, volunteers and the neighbors themselves. Incorporating Community Church Without Walls and led by Executive Director and former Co-pastor Garrett Harper, Urban Ministry operates two main ministries: Compassion and Wholeness. Compassion ensures families have immediate bills paid and fresh groceries to eat, while Wholeness equips them for a brighter future. Wholeness is made up of WE Learn, WE Cafe and WE Build, plus WE Work, a two-year apprenticeship program giving the neighborhood’s young adults a chance to learn their chosen trade in hospitality, education or architecture. Life skills, including financial management, are part of the program as well. “They learn their trade through serving the neighbors,” noted Harper. “When they graduate from the program, they’re able to lease one of the homes renovated through WE Build. Lease payments are based on income, and they own the home, interest-free, eight years later.” Harper, who became Executive Director in August 2020, called the relationship between CCWW and UM “incredible,” pointing out that the church, which shares the space, is the nonprofit’s “closest partner.” “Our goal is to keep young adults financially stable, emotionally stable and living here in West End,” he said. “Neighborhoods are transformed by the people who live there.” urban-ministry.org CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

PAMELA REED PHIPPS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GRACE HOUSE MINISTRIES

A Christian-based group home founded by “Mama” Lois Coleman, Grace House Ministries has boosted the lives of girls in the foster system since 1992. Grace House had humble beginnings, starting with just eight girls. Today, 40 girls between the ages of 6 and 19 thrive on the Fairfield, Alabama campus under the tutelage of Executive Director Pamela Reed Phipps. Grace House is positioned to help young ladies look toward their futures with optimism and faith. Programs at Grace House cover residential, educational and spiritual needs. Girls learn living skills like cooking and laundry, are educated either on-site or at one of two partnering schools — Restoration Academy and Holy Family Cristo Rey High — and achieve emotional health through private counseling and volunteering. Phipps, who declared her role is “a calling rather than a job,” became part of Grace House during her college years as a volunteer mentor for one of the first eight girls. Later, after leaving her job as a paralegal, she was inspired to develop an organization for teaching etiquette and moral character to young women. She returned to Grace House, and, since 2010, has served as Executive Director and worked hard to uphold Mama Lois’ vision and grow Grace House’s campus to serve 100 Alabama girls in foster care. grace-house.org

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

M E L A N I E R . B R I D G E F O R T H PRESIDENT AND CEO, WOMEN’S FOUNDATION OF ALABAMA In the United States, less than 1.6 percent of charitable giving goes directly to bettering the lives of women and girls, according to Melanie R. Bridgeforth, CEO and President of the Women’s Foundation of Alabama. Since women and girls face a myriad of systemic issues as a subset of the population, such a statistic is quite unsettling — and is the basis of the organization’s mission. On behalf of women and girls in the Magic City and beyond, The Women’s Foundation of Alabama moves resources into the community through grantmaking, commissions research and advocacy for policies to “dismantle the systems that cause oppression,” said Bridgeforth. For example, in 2019, The Women’s Foundation worked with members of state legislature to make it unlawful for businesses to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender for equal work. Originally from Athens, Alabama, Bridgeforth was born and raised a Southern girl who noticed the discrepancies in society affecting women and girls and sought to do something constructive to change it. Following her background in leading legislative organizations, government lobbying and championing public policy, Bridgeforth is honored to be the current President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Alabama, a role she’s held since 2018. “My trajectory has been about promoting positive social change,” she said. “We have an incredible team, Board, and great volunteers. Birmingham is a forward-thinking city with community, corporate and civic leaders who are invested in building a better life for everyone, and we’re excited to be part of that.” WFAlabama.org CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

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Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

ALVIN GARRETT WILL TELL YOU HIS FIRST LOVE WAS MUSIC — A BASS GUITAR HE RECEIVED FOR HIS 11TH BIRTHDAY EFFECTIVELY CHANGED HIS LIFE. Yet, long before he picked up that instrument, he was already mak-

performers of gospel and R&B. In 2012, he was proud

ing up poems and lyrics – the early stages of what would

to earn a Grammy nomination for a song called “Bring

one day become his award-winning songwriting. Originally

Your Praise.” Today, his musical career continues to be

from Tuscaloosa, Alvin attended Samford University in

multi-faceted; he spends time performing music, writing

Birmingham and earned his degree in business. Following

music and teaching local students how to develop musi-

graduation, he spent two years in the corporate world

cal craft through his course, The Write Life, as part of

before returning to his true passion. “I gave myself totally to

The Dannon Project, a Birmingham nonprofit. “I started

music,” he shared.

getting invitations from schools to talk about songwrit-

As he grew as a performance musician — touring with his band, Just a Few Cats, and performing at

ing … so I developed a curriculum,” he explained. “That became my pathway to giving back.”

weddings and events — Alvin continued to work on his

In Alvin’s words, The Write Life is not just about

songwriting. Combining strategies from his business

songwriting but about mentoring young people to “get

background with his natural creativity, he developed a

their lives on the right track.” He discovered many

method to compose songs for both himself and other

youths who want to create art are in and out of the jus-

artists. Soon enough, hard work proved fruitful, and

tice system, hungering for a way to express themselves.

Alvin started receiving opportunities to collaborate with

Thanks to The Write Life, music becomes their avenue

major artists such as Kelly Rowland, Fantasia, and other

of self-expression, helping them to process complex CONTINUED >

GRAMMY-NOMINATED ALVIN GARRETT GIVES BACK TO FUTURE ARTISTS ARTICLE DENISE K. JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALVIN GARRETT CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

ON THAT NOTE (CONTINUED)

feelings and thoughts with purpose.

and dreaming,” Alvin said. “I show these

Alvin encourages his proteges to

kids you can do whatever you want to do,

veer away from offensive language

as long as you make the right choices

and anything violent or misogynis-

and you have a plan.”

tic and to communicate their ideas

Alvin’s latest deluxe album, “The

so they appeal to a wider audience.

Lightness of Love,” was released this

Ultimately, all finished songs are

year and features rousing tracks reminis-

recorded, and the students are able to

cent of Al Green, Sam Cooke and other

take pride in their creative work.

beloved musical artists. He calls his own

“I love giving back as a mentor — not

style “inspirational soul” — and consid-

just teaching songwriting but also rep-

ering his work on stage and off, we can

resenting who a person can be through

believe it.

working hard, making good decisions

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

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Head South fo r W i n t e r ARTICLE MATTHEW ADAMS

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

PHOTOGRAPHY KIVA DUNES

HEAD 20

KIVA DUNES RESORT AND FORT MORGAN ARE MUSTVISITS DURING OFF SEASON

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF DURING YOUR DREAMS OF A BEACH VACATION? Do you see yourself looking out from a seashore porch, drink in hand and that book you’ve

off-days,

been meaning to get into, listening to the waves?

rental prices and dealing with large summer

Or just one more hot afternoon on those world-fa-

crowds, is all really worth it for a short time at the

mous sugar-white beaches? While these should

beach. While there is no sure way to completely

be your first thoughts when planning a vacation,

remove stress from packing and traveling – no

they are often followed by more intrusive second,

matter the season or destination – if you’re hop-

third and fourth thoughts, all concerning the

ing to ditch the crowds, heat and mid-summer

colossal undertaking of it all: when and where to

sweat… there may be just the place for you a little

book, how much should it cost, what about the

farther down the coast.

it to go next summer?

with

painful

peak-season

Already a great choice for a quiet place to unwind even in peak tourist season, Fort

These concerns are leaving some would-be

Morgan, Alabama takes relaxation to another

vacationers wondering if sacrificing precious

level near the end of the year. Mild winters and very few rainy days make fall and early winter in the region the perfect time to visit, with temperatures in November and December averaging in the high 60s and typically fewer than six days of rain each month, allowing for a lot more time in the not-so-scorching sun. The humidity and the oppressive heat that renders being outdoors unbearable for the better part of six months is finally gone – or at least lessened enough to be comfortable for most activities – and there is a slight and invigorating chill to the salty cross-wind, mingling breezes from the Gulf of Mexico with those coming from Mobile Bay to the North. Fort Morgan is a winter must-visit for those looking to actively enjoy the outdoors. While climate may be similar in neighboring areas, there is something to be said about the native forests, marshland and endangered habitats you can explore while staying at Fort Morgan. Not only CONTINUED >

S O UTH

pandemic and most importantly… Will it be worth

paired

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

HEAD SOUTH (CONTINUED)

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

is the area an excellent example of a community well-blended with the best elements of its natural environs – from the way new construction is incorporated to the heavy feature of native beach and forest areas – Fort Morgan strives to showcase Alabama coastal wilderness in a way that glorifies, preserves and cherishes it. While other areas are often highly manicured and “beautified,” most land throughout the Fort Morgan peninsula is largely untouched, making it the perfect place to enjoy a quiet walk in the bright, orange glow of a late autumn sunset over the water, or to set out early on a brisk day expedition to the 7,157-acre Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge to explore the scrub forests and marshlands. While it may seem more of a summer destination to some, the The Fort Morgan Historic Site – located at the end of Mobile Point – is a wonderful

– offering travelers a 30-minute ride across Mobile

stop for anyone visiting in cooler months. The site

Bay to Dauphin Island in neighboring Mobile

is open seven days a week year-round and is a

County. In the low humidity of the off-season,

great place to take the family for a day out or sim-

there is no better way to enjoy Southern Mobile

ply to learn a little more about the area’s rich his-

Bay and its natural scenery than taking the ferry

toric background. The fort is a large Third System

to Dauphin Island, home to the world-known

masonry structure built in 1833 on the site of a

Dauphin Island Sealab; Fort Morgan’s sister fort

previous wooden fort and took part in the crucial

site, Fort Gaines; and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary.

Battle of Mobile Bay in August 1864, remaining in

Fort Morgan also delivers something special

military service until 1946. There are many ways

for golfers looking to test their skills or those just

to enjoy the fort, from a self-guided tour of the

looking for a fun game. For coastal visitors more

grounds to firing demonstrations and living his-

interested in pars than parasailing, nothing beats

tory exhibits built into the original fort structure to

a good game of off-season golf at Kiva Dunes

haunted ghost history tours.

Resort, Alabama’s highest-ranked golf course

Outside of the military and national history

and a true blend of natural beauty with a com-

learning options available at the site, admission

petitive, challenging course. The track at Kiva,

also grants beach access, many nature and birding

having undergone $1.5 million in improvements

trails and a newly-upgraded fishing pier – perfect

in 2015, is purposefully built into the landscape

for winter-season fishing for amberjack, Spanish

and natural environment of the region, allowing

mackerel, mullet and more. Also located at Mobile

players to immerse themselves in the game and

Point near the fort site is the Mobile Bay Ferry –

the area. The track offers over 7,100 footage of

known as “The Gulf Coast’s Most Scenic Drive”

natural play and allows players of all skill levels to test their game. Organic hazards, natural sand bunkers and traps and those ever-shifting cross-winds of the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay over the peninsula make each round a dynamic challenge. While the course is always 100% open CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

HEAD SOUTH (CONTINUED)

to the public – offering dynamic green fees dependent on tee time demands – those who decide to stay during the colder months can enjoy 25%-30% off per round and witness the course at some of its most beautiful times of the year. The savings aren’t only on golf when vacationing along the Gulf Coast during the cooler months. Rentals at Kiva Dunes Resort are nearly 45% less expensive when vacationing outside of peak season. There are plenty of vacation properties open for rent in the off season in Fort Morgan – including condos, cottages and beachfront homes – many of which are a short drive from all amenities and attractions on the peninsula. For those worried about overcrowding, one of the best things about staying in the Fort Morgan area is the better availability of entire home rentals. Additionally, real estate market “seasonality” returning in 2021 after more than a year of steadily rising prices along the Gulf Coast may mean even better prices going forward. While there are similar properties in other areas, they are usually much more expensive than prices further down the peninsula, and often without the added comfort of decent property spacing and privacy. The business of beachfront vacations is thriving, bringing nearly 7 million visitors to the Alabama Gulf Coast each year, many of which end up crammed into tight tourist areas. While areas such Gulf Shores and Orange Beach – among other vacation hotspots – have their advantages and selling points, they too often have higher prices, waiting lists for rentals and overcrowding during the hottest stretches of the year. Aside from simple crowding issues, saturated markets tend to be much more touristy and gimmicky, often forgetting the natural elements that made the areas popular in the first place.

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

We help navigate the mental health system for teens and children. Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC)

205- 638-PIRC (7472 )

PIRC is a confidential phone response center linking adult callers to mental health resources for children and teens. Service is provided by licensed mental health professionals who educate callers and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. If you’re looking toward late fall and winter for an Alabama coastal vacation, you won’t regret booking in Fort Morgan. From discounts to natural adventures to

PIRC hours are 8:00 am — 11:00 pm, 7 days a week.

a truly remote, relaxed beach experience, it’s all here. Whether it’s touring the fort site, learning about local

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wildlife, visiting the far side of the Bay courtesy of the Mobile Bay Ferry or something a little more exciting, Fort Morgan has you covered. If you book now, you can visit Fort Morgan in the off season and treat yourself and your family to that socially distanced getaway you’ve been craving to finally relax. The PIRC is generously supported by funding from the Anne B. LaRussa Foundation of Hope, Brasfield and Gorrie, LLC, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama, the Hill Crest Foundation, the Gorrie family, and the Walker Area Community Foundation. CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL PIRC-0001_PIRC_Ad_Birmingham_Lifestyle-3.458x9.875.indd 1

10/1/21 3:51 PM

HOMETOWN HERO

ARTICLE DENISE K. JAMES

Words of Encouragement

ALABAMA POET LAUREATE ASHLEY M. JONES BELIEVES IN ART FOR THE COMMUNITY

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

AT THE TENDER AGE OF 7, ASHLEY M.

Those feelings resonated with Ashley so

JONES WAS INSPIRED TO WRITE HER

deeply that she went home that day and trans-

FIRST POEM. The Birmingham native claims

formed her spy journal into a poetry journal, offi-

she already “loved reading and writing,” in part

cially devoting herself to the art of lyrical expres-

thanks to the encouragement of her parents,

sion and eventually enrolling in the Alabama

who worked with Ashley and her three siblings,

School of Fine Arts, where she teaches today.

grooming their intellects before any of them set

She earned an MFA in poetry from Florida

foot inside a classroom.

International University and has, in her own

Fast-forward to second grade, when Ashley’s

words, “been obsessed with poetry her whole

assignment was to memorize and recite some-

life.” “I wanted to be like Toni Morrison and win

thing to her fellow students at Epic Elementary.

a Nobel Prize,” she confessed, eyes sparkling.

“I chose the poem ‘Harriet Tubman’ from the

It seems Ashley might be well on her way

book ‘Honey, I Love’ by Eloise Greenfield,” she

to her goals – at just 31, she’s already earned

recalled. “It’s told from a Black perspective, and

the title of Alabama Poet Laureate, a well-de-

as I recited those lines, I felt a confidence and

served honor, given her passion for poetry

assuredness I had never had. I felt free – just

and community. Her third book, “Reparations

the fact that I was reciting powerful words by a

Now!” was released this fall and is available at

Black woman about a Black woman.”

Thank You Books. She describes her personal

style as “variable” — in each poem, she’s liable

Ministries Shelter, as well as art sales benefiting

to capture her own “nerdiness, Southerness or

inhabitants. Finally, Ashley hopes to highlight

Blackness and write about topics ranging from

other local wordsmiths “who are doing awe-

personal life to politics.”

some work” — which she got a taste of last sum-

Ashley wants to do great things during her

mer while guest editing the July/August edition

four-year term as Poet Laureate. She plans to

of Poetry Magazine and creating a feature on

continue working on her nonprofit, the Magic

Alabama poets. These projects, of course, are

City Poetry Festival, providing free poetry pro-

in addition to her own busy schedule of writing,

gramming and conversation every April, which is

teaching, traveling and giving readings.

National Poetry Month, and now throughout the

“I want to work with seniors as well. I'm not

year. She’s part of a group called InToTo Creative

sure how that will look, but that is the goal,”

Arts Forum, focusing on artistic expression for

she added. “I want to reach all levels — go into

the homeless and oppressed. Currently, InToTo

schools, give talks, give workshops and con-

offers classes and workshops at the Firehouse

tinue poetry programming for everyone.”

“I wa nt to reach a l l levels — go i nto schools, give ta l ks, give workshops a nd cont i nue poet r y prog ra m m i n g for e ve r yo n e .”

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

NEVER S T R A N GE R S F OR L O N G

Photo by Mequel Scott. Camille DeSantis

LOCALS THRIVE THROUGH THE FORGE BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR CENTER ARTICLE DENISE K. JAMES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center

WHEN CHALLENGING THINGS HAPPEN IN LIFE,

support and guidance to other survivors through

WE TURN TO OUR LOVED ONES FOR SUPPORT

her profession as well as through Forge. “I couldn’t

AND CAMARADERIE — AND IN SOME CASES, WE

ask for a better medical team or support circle with

MIGHT ALSO TURN TO STRANGERS. They don’t

family and friends,” she beamed. “I chose to share

stay strangers for long, of course; with fellowship and

my story with Forge because of their values and

shared experiences, these new people become part

their work within the community. My intention is to

of our journey. Such is the case with local survivors

instill hope in breast cancer patients and their loved

of breast cancer who have shared their time through

ones. There are resources available, and there are

the Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center.

reasons to be optimistic.”

In Birmingham since 2016, the Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center was founded as an initiative of the

CAMILLE DESANTIS’ STORY

Women’s Breast Health Fund of the Community

Just before her 39th birthday in November 2019,

Foundation of Greater Birmingham, according to

Camille DeSantis located a lump in her breast.

Claire Gray, Manager of Community Outreach.

After the requisite doctor visits and ultrasounds,

“Results of a community-wide assessment revealed

she received the phone call with her diagnosis on

gaps and barriers from point of diagnosis throughout

December 9 and immediately called her husband,

the balance of life,” Gray noted. Four Alabama health

sobbing. By the time he arrived home, however,

care systems are involved: Ascension St. Vincent’s,

Camille was “making lists and taking action.” “I felt

UAB

like, now that I know, I can make plans,” she said.

Health,

Brookwood

Baptist

Health

and

Grandview Medical Center, and members from each

Camille was living in her native city of Durham,

contribute to Forge leadership. An official nonprofit

North Carolina at the time of her diagnosis, and

as of 2020, Forge offers a number of invaluable pro-

by the end of her treatment, she and her husband

grams, from support groups and creative workshops

and sons had relocated to Birmingham. A licensed

to mental health counseling.

massage therapist, Camille said her community supported her during treatment while she couldn’t

DONDRA GOLDSBY’S STORY

work, and she felt called to pay it forward in her new

In November 2020, Dondra Goldsby’s annual

city. She decided to start an online support group,

mammogram was flagged as needing a closer look.

having found solace in the Young Survival Coalition

A couple of weeks later, she received the phone call

back in Durham. Soon after she’d formed Breasties

with the news that she’d tested positive for breast

of Birmingham and Beyond, Janet Dees reached out

cancer. Her husband, children and extended family

and offered to speak to the group about what Forge

“quickly got into support mode,” and Dondra found

offered, connecting Camille with other local survi-

her way to Forge thanks to a friend in remission

vors as potential speakers for the Breasties. A solid

who’d had a great experience with the organization.

partnership formed, and now, Camille enjoys men-

Dondra’s medical team had also suggested Forge

toring survivors through her own group as well as

as part of her total care plan, and with two votes for

Forge. In 2021, she returned to work as a massage

reaching out, she decided to speak with Janet Dees,

therapist and shares her philosophy of total well-

Forge’s client services coordinator.

ness with survivors, lauding nutrition, acupuncture,

Since that day, Dondra has found Forge’s “vast supportive services” rewarding and helpful. She enjoys

massage and spiritual growth as important facets of successful treatment.

participating in virtual support groups and in creative

“I’ve talked to Janet about expanding the way I

workshops such as the “Beautiful Lettering” session

support Forge; we are talking about me volunteer-

— her own embellished word, Hope, is now displayed

ing my hands and giving massages to survivors and

prominently in her office. She recently spoke in one

including more holistic offerings,” Camille shared. “I

of Forge’s “Coffee and Conversation” sessions about

think there is room for us as a culture to grow and

her own new topic, Setting Boundaries with a Breast

recognize the ancient wisdom of healing arts. We

Cancer Diagnosis, and is looking forward to the

need to engage in greater self-care, and I am hoping

opportunity to speak again.

I can do my own small part to be part of that change.”

Dondra, a licensed counselor and marriage/ family therapist, said she feels “wonderful about

@forge_bcsc

her future” and sees many opportunities to offer

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Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

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CULINARY CREATIONS

CASSOULET O U R W AY

CASSOULET IS A THING OF BEAUTY. It’s a traditional French peasant dish that, at its heart, is a bean stew flavored with pork, duck and garlic. The traditional recipe calls for specialty Tarbais beans, duck confit and a garlicky sausage called Saucisse de Toulouse. But this Cassoulet has none of those things, and I’m not sorry about it. Most ingredients in this recipe can be sourced from the Market at Pepper Place or Birdsong Farmers Market. This dish is a celebration of all things Birmingham: our farmers, our produce and our ability to compete on the world stage when it comes to cuisine. It’s also the food equivalent of a big hug.

A SOUL-WARMING FRENCH CLASSIC MADE WITH BIRMINGHAM’S BEST ARTICLE ERIN HOWETT PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLE DU BOIS

Birmingham Lifestyle | November 2021

The only problems you might have in sourc-

chicken legs out and set aside. They

ing are the feet and the fresh peas. For the feet,

won’t be cooked at this stage and that’s

you have a few options: special order from a

okay. Add the celery, onions, carrots,

farmer at Pepper Place, Birdsong Market,

garlic cloves, shishito peppers and

Shipbrook Farm or visit an Asian grocer like

sweet peppers to the pan and sauté

Hometown Supermarket in Homewood.

until translucent, about 5 minutes. Once

If you don’t have frozen or fresh field peas,

cooked, add in all the other ingredients,

use about ½ pound of dried white beans. Do not

and return the cooked pork. Stir every-

try to use green peas, split peas or lentils--they

thing together evenly. Add the chicken

won’t work and they’ll cause you a headache. I

legs, skin side up, and make sure the

used fresh, pink-eyed peas for this rendition.

skin isn’t submerged in the liquid.

For the stock, you have two options: make it

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes then

from scratch or fake it. To make from scratch,

remove and gently shake the pan so

combine the chicken feet, the pig feet, the garlic,

that the contents wiggle a bit. You will

peppercorns and water in a large slow cooker

probably see a skin beginning to form.

and cook on low heat for about 18 hours. Strain

The gentle shaking will keep the skin

out the bits and let cool. Once your stock has

moist and help it brown and crisp better.

been refrigerated, it will firm up and set like

Bake for another 30 minutes, then gently

Erin Howett is a Personal Chef based

Jello. This is exactly what we want. It means the

shake again. Repeat this process until

out of Birmingham, where she also

cassoulet will be rich and will brown properly.

2 ½ hours have passed. The liquid will

develops CSA recipes for Mountain

To fake it, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in the

reduce, and you may need to add a bit

Sun Farm. Follow along with her

store-bought stock, and call it a day.

of water or extra stock to keep the beans

cooking exploits on Instagram, at

from drying out.

@eringracehowett. If you’re interested

Add the duck fat or bacon fat (or even oil) to a cold, wide pan (I used my 3 ½ quart Le Creuset

When 2 ½ hours have passed, let stand

braiser) along with the cut pork jowl and then

for 15 minutes. Serve with crusty bread

follow the link in their Instagram bio, at

turn the heat to medium. Fry the pork until the

and a light salad.

@mountainsun_farm.

in the CSA from Mountain Sun Farm,

fat is rendered and crispy, about 8 minutes. Take the pork pieces out with a slotted spoon and drain all but 2 tablespoons of the fat. Save the extra fat for another use, as it’s quite delicious. Put the chicken legs skin side down into the pan and fry until the skin is golden-brown and crisp, about another 5 minutes. Take the

+ 2 teaspoons duck fat or bacon fat + ½ pound pork jowl or bacon (from Marble Creek Farmstead), cut into 1 centimeter pieces + 2 whole chicken legs (from Marble Creek Farmstead) + 1 cup finely chopped celery + 1 cup finely chopped onion + ¾ cup shredded carrots + 1 head of garlic, cloves separated, peeled, and lightly crushed + ½ cup chopped shishito peppers (from Ireland Farms) + ½ cup chopped sweet orange peppers (from Mountain Sun Farms)

For the stock

+ 1.5 pounds chicken feet

+ ½ pound Conecuh sausage, cut into ½ inch chunks

+ 2.5 pounds split pig feet

+ ½ pound smoked ham hocks (from Twin Springs Farm),

+ 1 head of garlic, cut across the cloves + 1 teaspoon black peppercorns + 3 quarts water

cut into ½ inch pieces + 1 pound fresh field peas, any variety (from Postell Farm) + 1 teaspoon each chopped fresh sage (from Owl’s Hollow), dried thyme, dried rosemary + ½ teaspoon black pepper + 1 teaspoon salt + 3 cups stock

For the braise: CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

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