Issuu

A P R I L 2 02 1

Bee Kind to Honey Bees

HOME + DESIGN T H I N K G REEN WI T H YO U R HVAC SYS T EM LI F E + C U LTU R E G ROW T H AT J O N ES VAL L E Y T E AC H I N G FARM

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2021 PUBLISHER

J Shay Langley | shay.langley@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Put Some Spring in Your Step SPRING IS HERE, AND MOST OF US ASSOCIATE THE SEASON WITH BLOOM-

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

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph

ING FLOWERS, SINGING BIRDS, OUTDOOR LIVING AND ALL THE THINGS THAT MAKE US HAPPY TO LIVE IN THE SOUTH. Because April is our annual earth issue, we take pride in sharing stories about organizations and businesses that work with the environment for the good of everyone. In this issue, you'll learn about local honey bees and what you can do to help them thrive. You'll read how Jones Valley Teaching Farm and Highland Park Community Garden make the city more colorful. You'll even learn secrets for getting your energy bills lower as the sun gets warmer. In Birmingham, our quality of life is something to be thankful for all year long, but it's undoubtedly at its very best in spring. As always, we're grateful for our readers and advertisers, and we hope the season reminds you that the grass is sometimes greener right where you are. Sincerely,

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

J. Shay Langley, Publisher

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

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

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021

FEATURES 16 Bee Kind ....to the Honey Bees of Birmingham

20 From the Ground Up Jones Valley Teaching Farm Reconnects Food To Nature

20 10

30 Think Green How to Save Money and Energy with Your HVAC System

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

City Scene

Water & Woods

20 Giving Back 25 DIY 30 Renovate & Refine 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Culinary Creations

GET INSPIRED

LIVE A GREAT STORY

EAT + DRINK

SHOP LOCAL

City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

Financial Planning • Tax Strategy 401(k) Education Savings • Advisory Services Risk Management • Estate Planning Retirement Planning JESSE SCROGGINS, AAMS® Senior Vice President, SWIG Financial Professional, RJFS jesse.scroggins@swinvestmentgroup.com 600 University Park Place, Suite 350 Homewood, AL 35209 O 205.730.0055 // F 205.981.0299 Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Southwestern Investment Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. 21-FA6J28-0002 TA 2/21

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

AROUND TOWN

If you have thirty minutes or more to listen, ask Antonio what he dreams of being in ten years.

OPEN YOUR EYES TO A NEW LOCATION Dry Eye Center of Alabama and

WE DO WHAT WE DO

Family Eye Care, a practice founded

BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

by Dr. C. Derrick Franklin, is proud to share their new location at 3490 Independence Drive, Suite 110, in Homewood. The practice is one of two in the state equipped with specialized machines for the treatment of dry eye. Two optometrists, Dr. Franklin and Dr. Allison McKelvey, provide eye care for adults and children, and the optical shop has a large selection of designer frames and high-quality HOYA brand lens products.

BUSINESS AS USUAL The Brookings Institution's Metro Recovery Index has shown strong numbers for the Magic City, particularly in jobs, unemployment rate and small business survival. What do these numbers mean? Birmingham is bouncing back from COVID-19 better than or as well as other similarly-sized metropolitan areas.

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ BirminghamAL using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

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CITY SCENE

how does our garden grow?

A chat with Program Director Tori McDonald

THE HIGHLAND PARK COMMUNITY GARDEN CONTINUES TO THRIVE

EXPLAIN THE HISTORY AND CONCEPT OF THE HIGHLAND PARK COMMUNITY GARDEN. The Highland Park Community Garden started with a group of neighbors in 2016. We wanted to convert the old beach volleyball court in Rushton Park into a usable space for the community. We worked closely with the Highland Park Neighborhood Association, the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board,

Independent

Presbyterian

Church

and

ArchitectureWorks to design and organize the project. In Fall 2019, with generous support from private donors and Brasfield & Gorrie, we broke ground. Highland Park is the most densely populated neighborhood in the state, and over half of community members rent apartments with little to no gardening space. Highland Park Community Garden is actually the first community garden in a Birmingham city park.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

HOW HAS THE GARDEN FOSTERED COMMUNITY? Spring 2020 was our first growing season, and it coincided with COVID-19 lockdown measures. Throughout 2020, the garden offered an outdoor refuge for people to feel safe, socialize and learn from each other. It created a focal point in Rushton Park and an excuse for strangers to gather and chat. A lot of small interactions that create cohesion in a community have been nearly destroyed by social distancing. The garden has provided a new avenue for connection, while producing something tangible and useful. Our gardeners grew over 150 pounds of produce last season! CAN FOLKS STILL GET INVOLVED OR ARE THE PLOTS ALL SPOKEN FOR? Because we have a limited number of plots, they are assigned by a seasonal lottery, and are limited to Highland Park residents right now. Support for the garden has been phenomenal, and we have had over 75 Highland Park residents register. However, there are other ways to get involved. We recently incorporated as a nonprofit, and our mission is to support similar food and gardening projects in Birmingham public spaces. We are looking for enthusiastic folks to join our Board of Directors. You can also donate. Reach out to us via Facebook, at HighlandParkCommunityGarden, or email our program director, Tori McDonald, at highlandparkgardens@gmail.com.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

WATER & WOODS

HOME IS WHERE

TH E YA R D I S TIPS FOR YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

APRIL USHERS IN SOME OF BIRMINGHAM’S BEST WEATHER ALL YEAR, AND WE ASKED THE FRIENDLY FOLKS AT OUR LOCAL ETHAN ALLEN HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF AN OUTDOOR SPACE. Whether you have a big or small budget and a lot or little bit of room to work with, there are ways to pamper your landscape to make it an inviting spot for family and friends. Read on, and get inspired.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

WE’VE ALL HEARD THE BEST OUTDOOR AREAS ESSENTIALLY BECOME AN EXTENSION OF LIVING SPACE. EXPLAIN HOW THAT WORKS. How your indoor space functions will impact your outdoor space. Which rooms exit outside? For outdoor dining, access to the kitchen or a food prep area is ideal. Outdoor seating becomes a great extension of an indoor living space. It allows relaxation outdoors, whether you’re simply enjoying a beautiful day or your colorful garden. Will your outdoor living space be a place for relaxation and/or entertaining? When entertaining, knowing how to provide additional seating and space for guests is important. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER A HOMEOWNER WHO DOESN’T HAVE A LOT OF OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE TO WORK WITH? When space is limited, select pieces that can do double duty. A small dining table with comfortable, lounge-style chairs will allow for outdoor relaxation or dining. Add an umbrella for vertical interest, height and sun protection. Cluster your pieces comfortably together and allow for traffic flow.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

WATER & WOODS (CONTINUED)

WHEN A HOMEOWNER IS UNCERTAIN WHAT “STYLE” THEY WANT TO USE TO DECORATE THEIR OUTDOOR SPACE — COLORS, PATTERNS, RUSTIC VERSUS MODERN, ETC — HOW SHOULD THEY PROCEED? At Ethan Allen, we have many options and can achieve many looks. Looking at the inside of the home and how it connects to the outside is a good starting point. If a client has a traditional living space inside and wants to put a more modern spin on the outside, we can select pieces that complement their interiors in both style and color, while giving the outdoor space a fresh, updated look.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

WHAT ARE SOME TRENDS FOR THIS SPRING/SUMMER THAT YOU ARE SEEING? We are seeing lots of fresh colors and patterns and many classic silhouettes that have been updated with a more modern attitude. We are currently adding many new fabrics to our outdoor and performance line. Look for florals, tropical-inspired looks, a variety of stripes and more. We will have close to 200 patterns to choose from. These fabrics are also great to use indoors — not only in sun rooms, but in family rooms, kitchens and on beds. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MORE POPULAR BRANDS/DESIGNERS FOR OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS? All of our outdoor products fall under the Ethan Allen brand, and we have about eight styles to choose from. Our diverse collections include Millbrook, which is a classic English garden-inspired teak; Taunton Hill, which is an all-weather wicker with a relaxed vibe; and Nod Hill, which is a metal group with sleek, simple lines. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CARE FOR OUR OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS WITH OUR UNPREDICTABLE ALABAMA WEATHER? We provide a care and use guide for all of our outdoor furnishings. We also offer outdoor covers for purchase to protect and extend the life of your furniture. Fortunately, our clients in Alabama can enjoy outdoor living year-round.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

bee kind

....TO THE HONEY BEES OF BIRMINGHAM ARTICLE DENISE K. JAMES

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

E ven if you aren' t in t he position t o h ave a beehive of your own, t here are t hing s you c an do as a consciousness homeowner t o protect honey bees around your l andsc ape." YOU MIGHT THINK HONEY BEES HAVE

HOW AND WHY TO HELP THE BEES

BEEN HAVING “A MOMENT” IN THE

Even if you aren’t in the position to have

LAST HANDFUL OF YEARS, BUT FOR

a beehive of your own, there are things you

THE JEFFERSON COUNTY BEEKEEPERS

can do as a consciousness homeowner to

ASSOCIATION, THAT MOMENT HAS

protect honey bees around your landscape.

LASTED DECADES – AS FAR BACK

First, don’t mow the grass constantly or

AS THE 1960S, ACCORDING TO DR.

pull up wildflowers obsessively — bees love

Michael Steinkampf, current association

to feast on dandelions, for example, and can

president, who said “there are members

obtain nourishing pollen and nectar from

who have been keeping bees since before

these and other so-called weeds.

[he] was born.” A lively mix of young pro-

Another kind thing to do for the bees is

fessionals, retirees, farmers, office workers

to plant flowering shrubs, especially those

and “anyone who enjoys having a hive in

that bloom in early spring or late summer,

the backyard,” the JCBA works diligently

according to Dr. Steinkampf, who suggested

to protect bees, educate others on the

camellias, early blooming cherry trees and

importance of bees and keep abreast of

bush honeysuckle.

bee-related news and research. Honey bees continue to be in jeopardy for

“These are all good for times it’s tough to find pollen and nectar to bring back to the

various reasons, and colony loss for beekeep-

hive,” he noted.

ers last year was about 40%, according to Dr.

Gardening

enthusiasts,

particular,

Steinkampf. Because a colony has only one

should aim to keep bees around frequently,

queen bee at a time, the health of the queen

as plenty of plants rely on bee pollination to

is of utmost importance. Though a queen can

produce tasty victuals such as blueberries,

lay up to 2,000 eggs per day, if her reproduc-

peppers, cucumbers and more.

tive capacity diminishes, the whole colony

And, while those who are allergic to bees

can cease to exist. In some cases, if the col-

probably should not own a hive, there’s

ony notices a failing queen, they can raise a

no reason to fear bees buzzing around a

new queen by feeding a female larvae royal

colorful backyard.

jelly — a special blend of carbohydrates, lipids and vitamins — for a longer period of time. Besides a failing queen, colonies can also die out due to the presence of the varroa mite,

“In general, bees sting to defend their colonies. If they’re away from their colonies, they are far less defensive. A bee-friendly yard is generally safe,” said Dr. Steinkampf.

a parasite that Asian bees have adapted to handle, but European bees still struggle with.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

BEE KIND (CONTINUED)

BEE INFORMED - A FEW BUZZWORTHY FACTS + There are between 6,000 and 8,000 honey bee colonies in the state of Alabama. + California has the most honey bee colonies in the United States — more than 600,000, many of which arrive by truck from other states to pollinate crops. Left to right, queen bee, drone bee, worker bee

+ Because of Alabama law, you can import bee “packages” — which is one thing the Jefferson County Beekeepers Association does — but not fully mature colonies, due to the potential for disease. + Because flowers growing in the North have a shorter growing period, they produce nectar more aggressively to attract the area’s bees, and more honey is produced as a result. North Dakota is the top-producing state in the country for honey.

Want to get involved with the Jefferson County Beekeepers Association? Visit Jeffcobees.org. Want to take an online course for beginners about bees and beekeeping? Visit ohiostatebeekeepers.org. Want to keep up with education and research? Visit beeInformed.org.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

W E D N E S DAY M A RC H 3 6:15-7:15 J O I N U S FO R CO F F E E A N D CO N V E R SAT I O N

Ca f e CHURCH

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY AND WE’RE PRAYING FOR YOU! P L E A SE LET US K NOW HOW WE CAN HELP.

TE X T PRAYER TO 2 0 5 - 9 0 0 - 3 7 8 6 O R EM AI L PA STO R @ L A K ES I D EBA P T I S T.CO M J O I N US FO R WO R S H IP SUNDAY M O R NI NGS AT 8: 30 & 10 :45 LI V E - S T R E AM E D AT 10: 45 AT L A K ESI D EBA PT I ST.COM 2865 OLD ROCKY RIDGE ROAD (AT I-459 EXIT #17 --ACTON ROAD)

GIVING BACK

T U 20

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

FROM THE GROUND UP JONES VALLEY TEACHING FARM RECONNECTS FOOD TO NATURE

WITH SEVEN FARMS THROUGHOUT

of the ground can shift someone’s perspec-

BIRMINGHAM, JONES VALLEY TEACHING

tive to reconnect food back to nature.”

FARM, TOGETHER WITH GOOD SCHOOL

A two-acre farm established at Woodlawn

FOOD, IS TEACHING ELEMENTARY,

High School has reinforced the mission of

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

JVTF by providing ample space for conduct-

IN THE AREA ABOUT HOW THE ENVI-

ing Farm Club, a chance for kids to work on

RONMENT NOURISHES OUR BODIES.

the farm after school, as well as appren-

Founded in 2002 with the Good School Food

ticeships for high school kids, including

program added in 2012, JVTF partners with

course credit. One graduate of Woodlawn

educators to incorporate agricultural lessons

High, Mohamed Jalloh, was a key visionary

in the classroom, plus gives students the

for this farm and currently manages the

opportunity to get outside and witness how

apprenticeship program.

food springs up from the earth.

“As a WHS alumni, JVTF has given me the

“In a non-COVID world, we provide

platform to share the knowledge I have with

opportunities for students in school to have

peers and to mentor students who could use

hands-on classes on the farm,” said Kelly

stewardship toward a better future. It gave

Baker, instructor at Woodlawn High School. “I

me the opportunity to grow food and to grow

think the experience of harvesting a carrot out

people,” he beamed.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

Students who participate in the apprenticeship program are truly immersed in agricultural education, including soil science, pest management and record keeping — not just in theory but in practice. Apprentices also teach younger kids through the Good School Food program, sharing knowledge and relaying experiences. For apprentices who want to continue after high school, there’s a full-time graduate apprenticeship, plus potential opportunities as the organization grows. Still, regardless of whether a high school apprentice stays involved, the benefits are numerous, according to Baker. “We equip them with knowledge to follow any field they choose, the self-confidence to share the knowledge they have and [the ability] to become leaders in their community,” she explained. Adults who are interested in getting involved can do so by volunteering to bring supplies and ingredients to student homes while Farm Club is virtual for pandemic safety. Donations are always welcome, and following JVTF on Instagram, at @jonesvalleyteachingfarm, is a way to stay informed. Both Baker and Jalloh are optimistic about 2021 and beyond. Virtual lessons are reaching more students than ever, and a culinary summer camp called Camp Grow offers budding chefs the chance to cook farm-to-table cuisine. Finally, the much-anticipated Center for Food Education in downtown Birmingham will be constructed this year with “more opportunities for hands-on agricultural education.”

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

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Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

DIY

Benefits of a

chemical-free home

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED WHAT IT WOULD TAKE TO TURN YOUR HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL-FREE? It's not as hard as you might think! We hear a lot about the dangers of chemical ingredients, but it's easy to ignore all of the warnings and keep using our favorite products. When you don't know of a better alternative, it's just what you do! However, all of those ingredients add up and can make a big difference in your health, as well as the health of your family and pets. The products that are most important to swap out depend on your lifestyle and what you use the most. If your little ones are eating food right off of the counter, you might consider the ingredients from the cleaner you just used to wipe it down and start by switching to a natural method.

ARTICLE BY HAYLEY HYER

If you have sensitive skin, you might start by taking inventory of your beauty and personal care products to see what you can replace. To get you started, here are three DIY products that you can make yourself for your chemical-free home. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

DIY (CONTINUED)

DIY Scented Body Moisturizer Just like a new candle can brighten your day, a shimmery scented lotion can make you feel like a queen. The only problem is all of the artificial fragrances, alcohols, dyes, and other chemicals that your skin is absorbing from that bottle. There are some cleaner options such as unscented lotions, but that's a lot less fun. This DIY moisturizer allowed you to customize your own scent while still treating your skin the best you can. The key ingredient? Olive oil! Yes, any bottle of olive oil from your kitchen works. Pour some in a smaller bottle and add several drops of your favorite essential oils. Olive oil is super hydrating, feels great, and will make you question why you ever used lotion in the first place. Plus it's safe for your whole body. Just be mindful of the essential oils you choose. Some types—such as peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oils—cause a cooling effect and can feel uncomfortable if it gets on your face or other sensitive areas.

DIY Counter Cleaner: Safe for Granite + Marble! You probably know that vinegar is a great natural cleaner for most surfaces. Unfortunately, it can be pretty damaging to delicate countertops made from granite or marble. Here's a DIY cleaning spray that's safe for any type of counters you have!

Ingredients + Rubbing alcohol + Dish soap

+ Essential Oils + Water

Directions In a plastic or glass spray bottle, mix one part alcohol with one part water. Add several drops of dish soap and whichever essential oils you would like to add for your desired scent. Shake it up each time you use it as the ingredients will tend to separate. Although it's natural and safe, still avoid spraying directly on your skin as the alcohol and dish soap can dry you out.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

DIY (CONTINUED)

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

DIY Laundry Scent Enhancer If you have ever added those popular scent beads to your load of laundry before, you know how lovely it is to pull your amazingly scented clothes out of the dryer. The funny thing about a product like that is it truly has no purpose other than adding a good smell, but it does add lots of chemicals to your daily life! There's a safer and more beneficial way to make your clothes smell heavenly. Try this DIY scent enhancer with your next load of laundry and put it to the test.

Ingredients 3 parts Epsom Salt + 1 part Baking Soda + Essential Oils

Directions Mix your ingredients together in a jar or canister and scoop about ¼ cup directly into the washer basin before adding the clothes—just like you would with scented beads. Continue with your laundry like normal.

Learn More

While these three recipes give you a great start, that's definitely not all you can do to kick the chemicals out of your home. For more information on starting a chemical-free household, you can browse online resources such as ChemFreeCom.com or find a social media group to join with like-minded people who have some experience from their own trial and error. If you get overwhelmed, remember that you don't have to get rid of all chemicals in one day. Every swap you make is something to celebrate!

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

RENOVATE & REFINE

HOW TO SAVE MONEY AND ENERGY WITH YOUR HVAC SYSTEM

think

green

AS SOUTHERNERS, WE WANT TO STAY COOL AND COMFORTABLE DURING THE BALMIER SEASON — BUT WE WANT TO DO IT EFFICIENTLY. Here to help us is Joseph Braswell, owner of Guin Service LLC, a local HVAC and plumbing company started in 1958 by Braswell’s grandfather, whose last name was Guin. Once air conditioning gained popularity in Southern homes, HVAC services also became part of the Guin name, and today, Braswell and team are respected throughout Birmingham as a long-standing family business with vast industry knowledge and unparalleled customer service. Here are Braswell’s top 5 ways to save money and run your HVAC system more efficiently.

GET YOUR SYSTEM SERVICED. Braswell pointed out that getting your HVAC system serviced at least

annually — any time of year is fine — is the first step to efficiency. And, of course, change the filters regularly. “If the unit is dirty, the coils are clogged or the filters need to be changed,

the unit has to work harder, which can use more energy,” he said. “And, of

course, you want to avoid breakdowns in the heat of summer.”

CONSIDER THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUMIDITY AND TEMPERATURE. Environmental agencies are always pushing us to raise the thermostat a degree or two

in summer — yet, for most people in the South, running the thermostat at 80 degrees is far from appealing. However, if you have to crank the AC all the way down to 68, you have a humidity problem, Braswell pointed out. He added that a higher efficiency HVAC can control the humidity level in your household, as well as the temperature. “You can have your temperature at 75 degrees when the humidity is at 50%, no prob-

lem,” he noted. “And if you get the humidity down in your home, dust mites and mold can’t survive. It’s ideal for those suffering from breathing issues.”

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

INVEST IN A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT. One of the bonuses of the modern era is the programmable thermostat, which will tell you throughout

the day about the performance of your HVAC system in terms of running time and energy usage, plus even offer lifestyle tips. While newer HVAC systems often come packaged with these snazzy thermostats,

Braswell’s team can install one for your existing system.

USE YOUR FAN, AND SEAL YOUR WINDOWS AND DOORS. You know the “On” switch on your HVAC system’s fan? Use it, advised

Braswell. Yes, it will take a bit of energy to keep the fan on at all times — but not nearly as much as energy as the air compressor. “You can turn the temperature a little higher and keep the fan on and also use

your ceiling fans,” Braswell pointed out. Sealing doors and windows and ensuring the attic is properly insulated — with

time, insulation can deteriorate — are more ways to help your HVAC system.

CHECK YOUR DUCTWORK. The average American house has duct leakage of about

20%, according to Braswell. “That means that 20% of the cool air is leaking out into your crawlspace or basement and not cooling you off,” he explained. Older homes, especially, should ensure that ductwork is insulated and sealed.

IS IT WORTH IT TO UPGRADE NOW? Readers might be thinking that it’s time to replace the HVAC system with something more modern after reading this — but Braswell pointed out that being too hasty to replace a still-operating older system is not wise. Furthermore, the return on investment for an expensive new unit can be rather long-term. “You have to look at what’s important to you and how long you want to wait to get a return,” he said. “There’s no sense in taking out a perfectly good HVAC, but when it is time, you should consider going with a high efficiency system.”

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

comparisons, safety standards and other points of interest on hundreds

THE BIRMINGHAM PINK BRIDE WEDDING SHOW Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex

Attention, brides! Birmingham’s most preferred wedding professionals will

of makes and models.

24 11TH ANNUAL BOB SYKES BBQ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

DeBardeleben Park (Bessemer)

Enjoy legendary Bob Sykes BBQ and

BIRMINGHAM DIABETES WALK

award-winning blues musicians per-

Veteran's Park

forming on one stage! The Bob Sykes

be all under one roof, ready to meet

The Diabetes WALK for Camp Seale

BBQ and Blues Festival is in its 11th

you. Enjoy stunning inspirational

Harris is a family-friendly Walk/Run

year and promises activities for the

showcases that will help you envision

raising awareness of diabetes and

entire family. Ages 8 and under are

the perfect celebration for your day,

raising funds for kids with diabetes to

free with a ticketed adult, $20 online

plus lots of goodies and phenomenal

attend Camp Seale Harris. Invite friends,

or $25 at door. Food and drinks sold

show-only specials that can save you

family and co-workers to join your effort

separately. No tents, coolers or pets.

thousands of dollars.

by donating to your WALK page. For more information on building a team,

donating, or WALK sponsorships for

ALABAMA INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Convention Complex

PANOPLY ARTS FESTIVAL

your family, call (205) 402-0415.

Birmingham Jefferson

Alabama International Auto Show

MAY 1 THE EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION 17TH ANNUAL CHILI COOK-FF Brookwood Village

Join the fun on May 1 for The Exceptional Foundation's Chili CookOff, a premier event. From early

Big Spring Park (Huntsville)

will feature the 2021 and 2022 model

Panoply

the

days in the foundation's parking

domestic and import cars, light

Southeast’s premier arts weekend,

lot to recent years at Brookwood

trucks, SUVs, hybrid vehicles of all

where Huntsville’s innovative spark

Village, community members have

sizes and vans. Manufacturer’s reps,

shines through a festival of art, music

watched as dedicated chefs cooked

product specialists, and your local

and more in downtown’s Big Spring

over 20,000 gallons of tasty chili

Birmingham

Dealers

Park. This North Alabama annual cel-

Association will be on hand to

ebration of art, music and more will

Foundation's mission — to provide

assist in product education, feature

be held April 23, 24, and 25th.

a place for those with special needs.

Automobile

Arts

Festival

support

The

Exceptional

It’s time to think Inspired by Community

locally

ADVERTISE WITH US to deliver your message to the most affluent families in our community.

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Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

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CULINARY CREATIONS

A GREAT DISH ANY TIME OF YEAR!

MINT PEA P E S T O P A S TA THIS DISH USES EASY TO FIND INGREDIENTS, IS QUICK AND EASY TO MAKE, AND BRINGS FRESH, BRIGHT FLAVORS ANY TIME OF YEAR. For a protein-packed dish, top with grilled chicken or shrimp. Serves 4.

INGREDIENTS + 1 cup frozen peas + 2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped + 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted + 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese, roughly chopped into chunks (plus extra for serving) + 1 large handful fresh mint leaves (about 1/3 – 1/2 cup packed) + 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (plus extra for serving) + 1 packet dried spaghetti or other pasta

DIRECTIONS 01 Blanch the peas by cooking in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until still bright green and tender, then drain and plunge in cold

ARTICLE REBECCA FRIEDMAN

water. Rinse and pat dry.

02 Place the peas, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, mint and olive oil into a food processor or blender. Pulse until ingredients are well combined and almost smooth. 03 Cook the pasta according to packet instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a small amount of the cooking water. 04 To serve, toss the pasta with the pesto and 1-2 tbsp of the pasta water. Top with parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil and serve warm.

Birmingham Lifestyle | April 2021

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