Birmingham, AL July 2022 by City Lifestyle

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July 2022 PUBLISHER

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Summer Adventure! Adventure: an exciting, unusual, and sometimes dangerous experience. Certainly Greg Wingo’s tale of running through the Albanian Alps (page 12) could stand in for this textbook definition. In putting this issue together, I started thinking about the origins of my own adventure stories. What created my urge to explore unknown lands? It started with an internal nudge to spend a month in Dharamsala, India one summer during college—I had never traveled alone, much less to a developing country. That trip blasted open my mind (and ears! and nose! It is India after all…) and stoked a deep interest in foreign relations and a desire to not only adventure, but to attempt to understand, befriend and belong in all the places I travel. But where did that nudge toward adventure—and that understanding that life would be enriched by undertaking the adventure—where did it come from? Passports with extra pages sewn in to accommodate stamps from Tbilisi to Tokyo to Buenos Aires to Kathmandu beg to know the answer… I think I can partially trace it back to Madame Thomas’ French classes at Vestavia Hills High School. Language brought us new vocabulary, but also new ways of seeing, understanding. Scientifically, it brought new neural pathways. I can say that it also brings the ability to entertain multiple possibilities and a degree of confidence—everything is figure-out-able. This all leads to my conclusion that adventures of the mind can and do lead to adventures around the world. What is a new adventure you can undertake this month? I’ve started playing Mahjong with my elderly neighbor. I had never heard of this game until a few months ago. Now I see it everywhere! Here is to adventuring across the street and across the world.

Kali McNutt | kali.mcnutt@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Denise K. James | denise.james@citylifestyle.com INTER N

Maya Kitchens AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Antanette Ray CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Denise K. James, Dr. Doug Phillips, Greg Wingo CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

David Smith, Sam Evans

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

“If you can’t get to paradise, I’ll bring it to you.” –Donn Beach aka Don the Beachcomber And as this issue reminds us, two of the fastest portals to another place are music and a great cocktail. And with that, dear reader, we bring you our July issue! K A L I M C N U T T, P U B L I S H E R @BIRMINGHAM.LIFESTYLE

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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 area’s 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

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

The ultimate adventure is buying a HOME.

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inside the issue The Summer and Adventure Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 One Step at a Time

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Local Experiences

Must See T R AV EL

Locals Only

Local Limelight

Inspired By

Off Road

Our Town

Our Adventure

Healthy Lifestyle

Seven Trail Runners Find Adventure in the Albanian Alps

18 Jazzing Up the Magic City

Tuesday Nights at True Story Brewing Co. are Worth the Listen

24 Up, Up and Away

Birmingham’s Frequent Fliers Share Their Travel Tips

36 A Noteworthy Road Trip Visit Musical Memphis

ENT ERTA I NMENT T R AV EL

FO O D + B EV ER AGE

T R AV EL T R AV EL FI T NES S HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

O N T H E C OV E R

Ilustration: Gabrielle Saifi This month’s cover illustration by Birmingham artist Gabrielle Saifi depicts many of the locations mentioned in this issue’s editorial features. Saifi says: “I am inspired by the places I’ve visited around the world. Having lived in London and traveled extensively around Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, Asia and the Middle East, my aesthetic is inspired by those colorful experiences.” To view Saifi’s work or commission a piece of your own, visit gabriellesaifiart.com

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

MARY KALUSCHE

JAYSEN MICHAEL/SECRET PLAYGROUND PHOTOGRAPHY

7 MARY KALUSCHE

JAYSEN MICHAEL/SECRET PLAYGROUND PHOTOGRAPHY

1-2: The 2022 Mutt Strut benefitted Hand in Paw, an organization of therapy animals and handlers visiting people in need. 3: UPS teamed up with Down Syndrome Alabama to award five scholarships to adults with Down Syndrome seeking higher education. Jake Pratt Scholarship recipients left to right: Jackson Ray, Lindsay Davis, Grace Davis, Chandler Herrero and Jake Pratt (center). 4: Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato with Kelly Peoples, Executive Director of Down Syndrome Alabama. 5: Wonderful turnout to celebrate Jake Pratt Scholarship recipients, available to young adults with Down Syndrome. 6: Children’s of Alabama hosted a retirement party for beloved Hand in Paw therapy dog, Duke. 7: CASA of Jefferson County’s new volunteers were sworn in May 19. Interested in volunteering? visit casaofjeffersoncounty.org.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @Birmingham.Lifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

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local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

The summer heat is here. We tapped Birmingham native Maya Kitchens (Altamont '20 and current Mizzou sports journalism student) to curate this month's local experiences, which take place in and around some of our many wonderful bodies of water.

Lakes and Water Activities CAHABA R IVER SOCIETY: The evening of July 8 will be a night for looking

at the stars and canoeing on the Cahaba River during the Cahaba River Society's guided canoe trip. For more information, visit cahabariversociety. org. 2717 7th Avenue South Suite 205, Birmingham, Alabama FIVE MILE CREEK CANOE: Five Mile Creek Canoe and Kayak Company is located in Brookside, Alabama for all your canoe and kayaking needs. Visit fivemilecanoecompany.com for more information. 239 Cardiff Street, Graysville, Alabama FLIP SIDE WATER SPOR TS: Located within Oak Mountain State Park, Flip Side Watersports offers cable wakeboarding, vessel rentals and so much more. Check them out at flipsideal.com. OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PAR K: Beautiful waterfalls are a necessity for a great summer. Check out Peavine Falls in Oak Mountain State Park for a scenic, 65-foot waterfall. 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham, Alabama FOUR TH OF JULY FESTIVAL AND FIR EWOR KS: Are you going to be at Smith Lake on July 4? Be sure to watch the Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks from Smith Lake Park for all the fun, and grab a drink from our friends at The Grille at Trident Marina. Five Mile Creek Canoe

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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One Step at a

Time

Seven Trail Runners Find Adventure in the Albanian Alps 12

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Within only a few steps, the weather changed from sweaty summer heat to windy winter chill, and I knew we were entering the most challenging section of our trail running adventure. It was the third day of our tour through the Albanian Alps, and high atop the Valbona Pass, we were met with a big surprise. The snow was still covering many sections of the trail; it was clear we’d need to revise our plan for how to move forward. Despite these conditions, our seasoned trail enthusiasts were determined to find a way. Our guide, an Albanian named Adri, quickly rerouted us to a different trail down the mountain range. He explained that the trail we had planned to take was still too dangerous because of a high snowfall year in the mountains, and we would need to take a route called the “winter trail.” No one doubted this decision, primarily because a hiker had perished trying to take the main trail only two weeks prior. A few days earlier, our group of seven trail runners — five Americans and two Colombians — came together in Tirana, Albania for a week in the Albanian Alps, with the goal to cover miles of trails and create lasting memories. This little-known and mostly-untouched corner of Europe is a paradise for mountain lovers. I chose Albania as our destination after my own trip there last October. It was clear to me that this area of the country was ideal for adventurous runners seeking stunning views, challenging miles and few tourists. The first couple of days were spent in the small town of Theth and included running and hiking several trails featuring massive waterfalls, bright blue-green waterholes, lung-busting climbs and unparalleled views. At one point, we had three neighborhood dogs follow us 3,000 feet up to a mountain pass named Qafa e Pejes. It was clear these dogs were in their element, as they easily trotted up a trail that had us humans breathing heavily. Just before we were to descend back to our guesthouse, we turned to see a herd of mountain goats moving at full speed through the mountain pass, and one of the dogs moving at a much slower pace behind. Then our canine friend quickly gave up his pursuit and joined us on the run back down.

ARTICLE BY GREG WINGO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

CONTINUED >

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“At one point, we had three neighborhood dogs follow us 3,000 feet up to a mountain pass named Qafa e Pejes.”

The Albanian Alps are also known as the Accursed Mountains. This ominous-sounding name seemed very appropriate on that third day descending over the Valbona Pass. Within a matter of minutes of running down the winter trail, the path disappeared under a bright white layer of snow. The sharp angle of the mountainside meant we would have to use extreme caution traversing the 25-30 yards across the snow. One slip would mean a pretty dire emergency situation. Following Adri’s lead, we each carefully stepped into the previous person’s footprints while steading ourselves with our trekking poles. The short distances felt like an eternity. We would repeat this process many times as we slowly moved down the mountain. It took almost one hour to go a mile down the trail, but as the descent became less steep, we found sections of snow that were easier to slide down than hike. The tense moments quickly turned to

M UST SE E | TR AVEL

child-like excitement as we shot down the snowbank on our butts. The final four miles of actual running that day felt easy after what we’d experienced on the pass. Over our five days of running in the Albanian Alps, our group discovered a few truths. Each and every encounter with an Albanian was met with a friendly smile and genuine appreciation that we were experiencing their country. Every postcard-perfect moment was immediately met by another of even greater beauty. Day after day, we would ask, “How can it get any better than this?” — then it would. We stayed in guesthouses across the region that offered comfortable beds and endless dishes of authentic Albanian food. From plates of fli, a crepe-like delight, to dish after dish of lamb and beef to a never-ending assortment of breads and vegetables, all meals were fresh and locally sourced. Luckily, we were burning so many calories each day on the trails that these

meals were both tasty and necessary. Each night, we would head to our rooms to sleep earlier than the night before, the result of another tiring and thrilling day completed. As I lay in my bed on the final night of the trip, legs exhausted from five days that included 50 miles of running and over 15,000 feet of climbing, I reflected on all we'd seen and experienced. I considered how quickly we had all bonded during this shared adventure in an unknown land. As I faded into sleep, my thoughts drifted back to sliding through the snow and the joy traveling to a new place can bring when you share it with others. Greg Wingo is the owner of ROAM Projects, an outdoor recreation consulting company. In addition to organizing the Albanian Alps Trail Tour, he is also the race director for Great Alabama 650, the longest annual paddle race in the world. If you’re interested in the 2023 trail running trip to Albania, reach out to Greg, at greg@roamprojects.com.

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Jazzing Up the Magic City

Daniel Jose Carr (Jazz Hall of Fame)

Tuesday nights at True Story Brewing Co. are worth the listen ARTICLE BY DE NISE K . JAM E S PHOTOG R APHY BY DAVID SM ITH

LOCA LS ON LY | ENTERTAI NME NT

It’s an ordinary Tuesday evening in the Magic City, except I’m wearing sequins. While going out midweek hasn’t been my tradition, I’m looking forward to establishing a new one: listening to jazz at True Story Brewing Company in the Crestwood neighborhood. Walking into the beloved community brewery, I’m greeted by musicians who are beginning the evening’s set-up; jazz fans enjoying a brew before showtime; and a few soon-to-belucky beer drinkers, who, along with yours truly, have no idea what a glorious display of talent they’re about to encounter. The group of Tuesday night musicians runs the gamut from those who have played with frontman Daniel Jose Carr, an Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame member, for decades, plus younger talents who are excited to finesse their craft. I sit down to chat with the legendary Carr, a guy brimming with the magnetism of a true musician, yet also remarkably humble. “I’m an old Ensley guy,” he laughs, taking the seat beside me like we’re longtime friends. Soon, I learn how Carr got introduced to the world of jazz — by his fourth grade band teacher, Dick Clark (not to be confused with Dick Clark who hosted New Year’s Rockin’ Eve all those years), who was known for playing around the city with his brother, Chuck Clark. “They were playing around Birmingham in the 1940s,” Carr says. “Dick Clark died first, and that’s when I met the rest of them —- his niece, Chuck Clark and all the Clarks. There were a lot of them, and all were musicians.” Carr has a lot of fond memories about music from over the years — including that time he traveled to California with the Birmingham Heritage Band and played at a mansion belonging to a cast member of “The Jeffersons” — but the current jam sessions at True Story are particularly special to him. “I’ve had a lot of jam sessions, and I’ve never had them supported like this,” he admits.

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Margaret Walter Wilson, a singer better known by her stage name, Margeaux, agreed with him: “This area is passionate, open-minded and loves the arts. They come and hear the music once and want to come back,” she says. As someone who moved “from the shower to the stage only eight years ago,” Wilson is now one of Tuesday night’s most enthusiastic regular participants. She also sings in her own band, Margeaux and the Cat’s Meow. In fact, when the group’s former jam location became unavailable in the wake of pandemic lockdowns, it was Wilson who decided to reach out to Craig Shaw and his wife, Anna, who own True Story Brewing. “I knew Craig had a stage that would work for us. I called and said, what do you think about a Tuesday night jazz session? He said, ‘Bring it on!’” As you read this, Tuesday nights at True Story are approaching the one-year anniversary, as well as other milestones. Matthew Bellisario, a self-declared jazz fanatic and sound engineer, released his recording of Tuesday Night jazz the very night I was there. The recording’s lineup is Daniel Jose Carr on trumpet; Bernard McQueen on bass; Tyler Greengard on tenor sax; Willie Jackson on piano;

Margaret "Margeaux" Walter-Wilson

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Timothy Huffman III on drums; Joe Schumcher on bongos; Bernard McQueen on bass

Bo Berry (Jazz Hall of Fame) and son Jonathan

Tim Huffman on drums; and Bo Berry on trumpet. However, each Tuesday night is different, and any given week has a number of musicians who hope to get onstage and prove themselves, plus singers who bring plenty of passion to the mic. The night I attended, for example, a woman going by the stage name of Mockingbird — and a “spitfire” according to Wilson — is part of the jam, while other singers, including voice artist Nancy McLemore and 21-year-old Samford student Lydia Yates — “God, what a voice she has!” interjects Wilson — have shown up as well. Bellisario is hard at work on a documentary highlighting the thriving jazz scene of Birmingham. He anticipates it will be finished this fall, just in time for the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame to reopen to the public and remind locals and visitors about the incredible musical talent we are fortunate to have among us. “The energy of this room — with so much of the audience thrilled, intrigued and wrapped up in the sound and the musicians wrapped up, too — becomes a euphoric atmosphere of beautiful music,” Wilson says.

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away Birmingham’s Frequent Fliers Share Travel Tips and Tales

brandon mcbay

SE N IOR V IC E PR E SI DE N T, H E A D OF C R E DI T, S OU T H E R N S TAT E S BA N K Favorite place you’ve traveled and why? Paris, France. The city is full of history and is one of the few cities in Europe untouched by WWII. You can take day trips to Normandy (one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had), Champagne and Versailles. What do you always pack on every trip? Lots of shoes! Flight drink of choice? Vodka soda with a lime. Best souvenir ever? An original painting from Paris. The artist, Levesque Emmanuelle, has become well-known in France and even New York. The artist was in town when we purchased the piece and came by the gallery before it was shipped to sign the back with a message in French.

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neillie butler

OWNER AND FOUNDER, MARIÉE A MI LLC

michael goebel

PRESIDENT AND CEO, MERCEDES-BENZ U.S. INTERNATIONAL

Favorite place you’ve traveled and why? It’s hard to name my favorite place, but if I must pick, I will say Venice, Italy. The charm that comes along with any

Favorite place you’ve traveled and why? My son and I went to Yellowstone in

European city paired being on the water along with delicious food and wine is

2010. We loved seeing the wildlife and unbelievable landscape and still talk

hard to beat. What do you always pack on every trip? A pair of Golden Goose

about it today. My wife and I are planning to go back next year. Favorite airport

sneakers. They are the best multipurpose shoe that can be worn to dinner,

and why? The airport in Bremen, Germany. It’s small with short walkways but

meetings or for a stroll around the block. Essential carry-on item? My lap-

always feels really personal. Essential carry-on item? I always have my iPhone

top — I get more work done on an airplane than a full day at my desk. Favorite

and iPad with me, as I’m always connected. I love what I do and am really proud

hotel? Como Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos is my favorite hotel right now. I

of the hardworking team at the Mercedes plant. Flight drink of choice? A glass

absolutely loved my villa on the beach with a private pool. The villa came with

of red wine helps put me right to sleep. Best souvenir ever? I have a picture of

the sweetest butler who took such good care of us. It was truly paradise.

my family and me at the North Cape in Norway that I absolutely cherish. CONTINUED > JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/BI R M I N G HA M

kristy mosolino OW N E R , W I S H E S T R AV E L

ragan cain

FOUNDER, THE FRANCES FLAIR, @THEFRANCESFLAIR

Favorite place you’ve traveled and why? This is tough because so many places are unique. Most surprising would be Colombia. We took the family to visit

Favorite place you’ve traveled and why? Very tough question. Exploring new

this beautiful country and were blown away by the cultural and natural diver-

places is one of my all-time favorite things to do. I’d have to say South Africa is

sity and watching how this country has come back from the scars of Pablo

at the top of my list. In the fall of 2019, we visited Cape Town, Franschhoek and

Escobar’s reign of terror. Favorite hotel? My favorite hotel would be a tie

ventured on a life-changing safari out of the Singita Castleton Lodge in the

between Saint Ermines in London and the Cotton House Hotel in Barcelona.

Sabi Sand Reserve. Favorite airport and why? I am a big fan of Charles de Gualle

Both hotels seamlessly invoke the theme where they are located, have fantas-

— for the shopping, of course. Essential carry-on item? You will always find a

tic breakfasts AND are close to the sites of the city. Best souvenir ever? Our

comfy sweater and fully charged Air Pods in my carry-on, no matter how long

family’s favorite souvenir would have to be our Cuckoo Clock from Bavaria.

the flight. Flight drink of choice? Champagne. Always, Champagne. Favorite

Every 30 minutes, we get reminded of our travels!

hotel? There is only one answer for this…THE RITZ PARIS. FOREVER. Trust me.

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CALL O R V IS IT U S O N L IN E TO DAY TO SCHE DU L E YO U R CO MPLIMENTARY V I RT UAL O R IN - H O M E D ES I G N CO N SU LTATI O N 8 0 0 . 2 74 . 6 7 5 4 CA L I FO R N I AC LO S E TS . C O M

MAKE ROOM FO R A L L O F YO U

T h e D o n n Pe a c h

A Locally Sourced Libation Primed for Pontoon and Porch Sipping ARTICLE BY KALI MCNUTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM EVANS, RHYTHM CREATIVE

I NSP IR E D BY | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

BA M A

We asked Josh Schaff, managing partner at Cayo Coco Rum Bar & Restaurante, to create the perfect Alabama boat drink. Something refreshing and fairly simple for the home bartender — and lighter on the booze for our sweltering summer days. Schaff’s riff on the classic “Missionary’s Downfall”—a prohibition-era cocktail created by Don the Beachcomber himself—features local peaches, spearmint, and honey.

BOAT INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

1 ripe Alabama peach, cut into slices 3-5 spearmint leaves 2 ounces soda water 1.5 ounces Campesino Silver Rum .5 ounces fresh-squeezed lime Juice .75 ounces pineapple juice, ideally fresh .75 ounces 1:1 honey syrup*

*For honey syrup, combine 4 ounces honey to 4 ounces hot water. Stir until combined. Store refrigerated for up to one month.

DIRECTIONS 1. In the glass you will serve your cocktail in, add the mint and one slice of ripe peach. Gently muddle the ingredients, taking care not to press too hard—you just want the spearmint to release its highly aromatic oils. Top this mix with 2 ounces of crisp, cold soda water. 2. In a cocktail shaker, combine your remaining ingredients, add ice, and shake it like you mean it. Open your shaker and strain over the spearmint, peach, and soda mix. 3. Fill the glass to the top with ice either from the cocktail shaker or fresh. 4. Garnish! This will make your fresh cocktail beautiful and complete. Add one sprig of mint, a peach slice, and a straw. Enjoy!

DR I N K

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MUSINGS ON ALABAMA FROM DR. DOUG PHILLIPS, “DISCOVERING ALABAMA” PRODUCER

O F

The year 2019 marked 200 years of statehood for Alabama. Bicentennial celebrations were held across our state, with fireworks, music and invariably, a host of officials praising Alabama’s progress over the decades — extolling how the state has grown from a sparsely populated primitive territory to a modern region with a population of almost 6 million and rising — and proudly proclaiming that Alabama today is poised for a new vision of unprecedented future growth. Such hoopla is certainly fitting for a bicentennial celebration. However, it is this “vision” aspect that causes me concern. My experiences as an invited participant in several Alabama leadership programs leave me troubled that the vision often promoted for the state tends largely to ignore Alabama’s unique and profoundly important environmental essence. Oh, there might be some brief “environmental” reference to the problem of litter, or the need for a “green space” or two and community ”beautification”— and maybe a bit of information about recycling or energy conservation. But never is there serious commitment to providing substantive awareness of Alabama’s

N A T U R E

natural history and the tremendous biological diversity of our state. And never is there emphasis given to understanding Alabama’s natural ecosystems, native habitats and plentiful rural lands – the environmental basis that is so vital in sustaining our communities and enabling comfortable livability, in contrast to the crowded, polluted, high-cost conditions so common in other regions. Put simply, I fear many Alabama leaders are at risk of being influenced by a prevailing, limited perspective in this age of burgeoning populations, accelerating urbanization and environmental decline. As Alabama looks to the next 200 years, what do we envision for the future of our state? Given the often-heard summons that Alabama must “catch up” to such “new South” growth as neighboring Atlanta, I shudder to imagine a vision fostered at the hands of this perspective. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not another Chicken Little screaming that “the sky is falling.” I’m not suggesting Alabama faces impending environmental doom. To the contrary, I just want to proudly proclaim that there is another perspective of our state, a remarkable picture of exceptional natural wonder.

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COME ALONG AS WE DISCOVER ALABAMA No need to beat around the bush about it, Alabama is one of the most naturally diverse regions in the nation and in some respects, the most naturally diverse. Without diving into a ton of scientific tedium, let me give a few general highlights. We can begin with the underlying foundation for Alabama’s natural diversity — our impressive geological diversity. Though Californians will argue otherwise (California is, after all, quite large) Alabama contains much greater geological diversity than is accessible in other states. In fact, six major physiographic provinces and 37 minor provinces, revealing evidence for most of the earth’s geological history, rank Alabama at the top of the list for study by geologists from around the globe. The varied geology of Alabama is the basis of Alabama’s more than 300 different soil types, including some of the best soils in the world. Soil studies continue to yield advancing knowledge of the capacities of soil in providing nutrients for plants, performing decomposition and recycling and also containing microbial powers supporting the health of ecosystems, curtailing the emergence of new organisms potentially threatening human health. Crowning the varied geology and soils of Alabama thrives around 23 million acres of forests, with over 70 different forest communities and, by some accounts, more tree species than any other state. For example, Alabama has more species of oaks than can be found along the entire Appalachian chain northward to Pennsylvania. Likewise, Alabama has five species of buckeye, while Ohio, with only two species, claims itself the official “buckeye state.” Something else to cheer about next time the pigskin is between Alabama and Ohio State, perhaps? This natural jewel we call home also boasts the nickname “the aquatic state” for a precious asset that is becoming the envy of all other regions. Across the state flow roughly 130,000 miles of rivers and streams, supplying the “liquid of life” and nurturing an aquatic biota unrivaled in the nation. If, as experts say, water is the new oil, Alabama is “oil” rich. Alabama’s diverse geology, physiography, soils, forests, rivers and wetlands provide for an exceptional wonderland of myriad natural habitats and phenomenal varieties of flora and fauna – a realm of environmental richness confirmed even by satellite data. Add it all up, and, according to world-renowned Harvard biologist and Alabama native Dr. Edward O. Wilson, “Alabama is one of the most naturally diverse regions on earth.” And that, dear readers, is another image of our great state. So yes, I suppose one’s picture of Alabama is a matter of perspective. Admittedly, my perspective is tinged with a certain bias derived from a lifetime of roaming, exploring and discovering the natural wonders of our land — a land embraced by my late friend, Ed Wilson, as being “truly a special part of the creation.” And now I must bid you adieu, as I head out for some welcome respite and quiet solitude in one of my favorite Alabama places “off the beaten path.” I encourage you to find your own.

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F A M I LY L AW I S O U R PA S S I O N F A M I LY L AW • E S TAT E P L A N N I N G • M E D I AT I O N

2 0 5 - 8 74 - 8 6 8 0 | W W W. C R I T T E N D E N PA RT N E R S . C O M no representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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CIMAS bar and lounge

EDITOR DENISE K. JAMES VISITS MUSICAL MEMPHIS Beck & Call rooftop bar

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A Noteworthy Road Trip Thanks to my mother, I was raised on rock ‘n’ roll. Weekends in childhood were spent dancing around our den to radio and records, or dancing around the pizza parlor to favorites on the jukebox. Much later, I learned rock ‘n’ roll was raised on the blues — and for me, there’d be no better road trip than to Memphis to celebrate the history of my favorite music. Inspired, I packed a quick bag, made the pleasant three-hour drive and found myself on legendary Beale Street by late afternoon, checking into the gorgeous Hyatt Centric, right in the center of the action. I rewarded myself for the drive with a cocktail at the Hyatt’s Beck & Call rooftop bar, taking in views and hovering over the firepit, since it was pleasantly cool for spring. Indoors, I noticed thoughtful, musical touches throughout the hotel — carpets patterned after waves of sound and treble clefs dotting the walls. That night, I slept like a baby in the comfortable bed, dreaming about bluesmen traveling Highway 61 through the Mississippi Delta, hoping to make it big in Memphis. The next morning, I fueled up with breakfast at Sunrise Memphis and hit my first stop: Sun Studios, where Elvis Presley first recorded. Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable and let me pose cheesily with the microphone, then I spent the afternoon enjoying gorgeous weather on Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi, where Tennessee and Arkansas touch. I had trouble choosing a happy hour spot: would I wander Beale Street and see what stood out? Or choose a surefire spot like Lafayette’s Music Room at Overton Square? Finally, I realized I was on vacation — why not both?

The next day, after another delicious morning at Sugar Grits, I headed for the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, where I was engrossed in the story of Stax Records and its rise and fall in history. Looking forward to dinner at the Hyatt’s CIMAS Bar & Lounge, I ate a light lunch and continued combing the city, pausing to chat with locals, catch live tunes here and there and read historic markers. I hopped a bus and took the “Mojo Tour,” loving the guide’s descriptions as we rode around Memphis' different neighborhoods. It’s hard to describe the energy of Memphis. For me, of course, it’s musical, but the city offers much more: there’s interesting people, delicious cuisine, plus a lot of art and history. Speaking of art and history, that evening, I caught a performance of the musical adaptation of “Mean Girls” at the historic Orpheum Theater, then savored a nightcap at Earnestine & Hazel’s, the allegedly haunted dive bar, which my late friend, Delta poet James Thomas Miller III, mentions in a poem. My heart felt sad when I departed Memphis the third morning, but I promised myself I would return soon, perhaps for the “Mempho” Music Festival in September or RiverArts Fest in October. Or, perhaps I would just visit at random, grab a beer on Beale and soak up the bluesy mood of musical Memphis. More restaurants recommended by our friends at River City Lifestyle • Paulette’s • Gray Canary • Bishop • Catherine & Mary’s • Good Fortune Co. • Fancy's Fish House

ARTICLE BY DENISE K. JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/BI R M I N G HA M

Reinvention Tw o W h e e l s

ARTICLE BY BIRMINGHAM LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

EMILE HUGHES, FOUNDER OF RIDEBHM, TALKS ABOUT THE NOVEL MOUNTAIN BIKE RESORT FOR KIDS AND GROWNUPS.

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EXPLAIN THE MISSION OF RIDEBHM. WHY WAS THIS COMPANY FOUNDED? Our mission is simple: we provide positive experiences through mountain biking. For lots of kids, riding a bike without training wheels for the first time is a big deal. It can be a transformative thing to overcome something you fear — and to gain autonomy and confidence from that process. That goes for adults as well as kids! We want everyone to have those experiences so that when they leave, they leave wondering what else is possible.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND WITH THE COMPANY? I am one of the founders, along with my closest friend and fellow Birmingham native, Hobie King. We started working on this concept over two years ago, when we spontaneously built some jumps on a vacant lot in Avondale. It’s been quite a journey, but we are under construction on RideBHM, our flagship location in partnership with Red Mountain Park. Our site is over 200 acres in the thick of the largest metropolitan area in the state. It sits at the intersection of Bessemer, Birmingham, Hoover, and Homewood — a perfect location for people from both sides of the mountain to come together around a common activity.

WHAT IS A “MOUNTAIN BIKE RESORT?” EXPLAIN. It all starts with our trail. If you don’t mountain bike, maybe the best way to explain the experience of riding a great trail is that it’s like a mellow roller coaster, where you control the car. As avid riders, we have traveled for years to other parts of the country for the best trails, but it really did not make sense why a similar experience didn’t exist nearby. Alabama has over 270,000 acres of land in the Forever Wild Land Trust alone and a climate that is suitable for riding year round. So we decided to create it. Our first location is 200 acres of Alabama hillside, thoughtfully laid out with professionally built and maintained downhill trails. They’re built for beginners first, but progressive in difficulty and features. They’re trails that are designed for one thing — tons of fun. At the bottom of our trail systems, we’ll have a family-friendly environment we call “Base Camp.” Complete with a shipping container bike shop, taco trucks, camping opportunities, shade structures, kids features and yoga classes, this outdoor recreation hub is a mountain biking resort.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A MEMBERSHIP TO RIDEBHM? A member gets low-cost access to world-class outdoor recreation, built around, but not limited to, mountain biking. Members will have a place where

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everyone in their family can enjoy themselves outside, get some exercise (biking, hiking or yoga), and socialize with friends old and new. Finally, our future plans include other parks across the state, at which point your membership will be your pass to ride at all of our locations. I am so excited about that in particular: our members can get different experiences and value for the whole family, all within convenient driving distance and at a low price point.

HOW SOON WILL THE RIDEBHM PARK BE COMPLETED? We will never be “done,” as we will always be looking for ways to improve our value proposition to our customer, but we plan to have a “grand opening” in early 2023 with some beta opportunities prior to that.

HOW WILL RIDEBHM IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR EVERYONE IN BIRMINGHAM AND BEYOND? The experience we’re creating with this park is something I would have liked to have growing up in Birmingham, and I also think it will make us more attractive to potential visitors and locals alike. Outdoor recreation can be a powerful economic development tool, as towns like Bentonville, Arkansas have shown with their commitment to mountain biking trails and subsequent growth. The Hoover Institute actually made investment in outdoor recreation one of its top recommendations for the state to pursue in order to attract and retain a talented workforce, and we think Ride Resorts can be a big part of that strategy. We will deliver a world-class mountain biking experience, 20 minutes from downtown, in a way that creates a community that will be fun to be a part of, no matter your skill level. And when mountain bikers from all over the country come to ride with us, it will be an opportunity for us to show off all of the other amazing things Birmingham has going on.

WHAT DO YOU ENVISION FOR THE FUTURE OF RIDEBHM AND AFFILIATES? Our motto is "go big, together," and that’s what we are planning. RideBHM is the first location of Ride Resorts, the world’s first mountain biking resort platform, based right here in Birmingham. We are committed to producing an amazing experience at RideBHM and then replicating that wherever we think it makes sense. We send out regular updates via email. If you are interested, just sign up at ridebhm.com, and also give us a follow on Instagram @ridebhm.

I F YO U A R E R E A D I N G T H I S . . . S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

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MAYHEM ATHLETE

Online Bodyweight and Minimal Equipment Workouts

Sweaty and challenging workouts done in 30 minutes or less at home Bags are packed, reservations are made, and the Out of Office automatic reply is letting everyone know you have officially entered vacation mode. There’s one thing that’s lingering; how to go on vacation without pressing pause on the fitness progress you’ve made, or avoid commuting to a gym and paying drop-in fees? Mayhem Athlete provides online programming that guarantees a sweaty, challenging workout that you can do in 30 minutes or less. These quick but effective workouts incorporate compound movements such as burpees, push ups and lunges which use more than one muscle group and require more energy for your muscles to recover, meaning you can continue to burn fat and calories long after the workout is over – while enjoying the beach or sitting at work.

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ARTICLE BY KELSEY HARRIS AND JEN FRUDAKER

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Mayhem 30 - Bodyweight In 12:00 Minutes - complete these 3 movements, in order, as many times as possible • 6 Burpees | 8 Sit Ups | 12 Alternating Bodyweight Stepback Lunges (Total) Mayhem 30 - Minimal Equipment In 12:00 Minutes - complete these 3 movements in order, as many times as possible • 6 Burpees over the Dumbbells | 8 Sit Ups | 12 Single Dumbbell Stepback Lunges (Total)

WIN a Mayhem Athlete Package! City Lifestyle and Mayhem Athlete are giving five winners a $300 bundle! This giveaway closes on July 15, 2022. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @mayhemathlete on Instagram and tag unlimited friends and family on the July 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

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Visit Trails End – An AR Homes® Community MOSS CREEK CIRCLE, MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL 35223

Monday – Saturday

Sunday

10am to 5pm

1pm to 5pm

Call 205-876-3677 to schedule your visit. Mary Kathryn Bonamy • MKBonamy@ARHomes.com