East Cobb, GA June 2023

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To all men making a difference

As the celebration of our inaugural Women's issue continues to linger, we find ourselves turning to celebrate the kind, inspirational and powerful men in our lives. These men have the influence and, yes, the privilege to shape both the young and mature people in their lives. To grow and do things that help make the next generation even more caring, strong and wise. Whether a father, a coach, uncle or colleague, they serve as role models and lead by example, leaving a lasting impact on those watching. We all likely can think of a man in our life that has had an impact on us at one time or another. Whether it is someone pushing us to be a better version of ourselves, someone who sees the best in us, someone we look up to or perhaps someone we don’t personally know but who inspires us by their love for life and community.

I'm fortunate — my father is, and has always been, one of my heroes. He served as a mentor to young people who were fatherless. He coached youth sports for many years. He served in his church, all the while being a loving husband and father at home for his family. He led his peers in the business world with great humility and success. He taught me many things, but most of all, he taught me what unconditional love means without judgement. I am eternally grateful and blessed I had such an inspiring role model in my life and today, I still look up to him as always — as he is 6 feet, 4 inches tall!

This month, the City Lifestyle team is proud to honor and share stories about men being the very best at what they do, while all the while lifting others. We highlight men who are following their passion, often put themselves second, work hard, volunteer and drive others to do great things. From superstar and NBC  The Voice champion Bryce Leatherwood to local business men and an award-winning coach, local leaders are making a mark. We're thankful for their contribution to the growth and health of our community and beyond. To all of the men making a difference in someone's life, however big or small, we applaud you. The lasting impact you are making and the ripple effect that often ensues is immeasurable.

All my best,

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue G. Collins, Dr. Eric Plasker, Jenn Rakestraw, Haleigh and Cody Brown, Oreoluwa Onabanjo

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Eric Ahlgrim & Trae Patton/NBC

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

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Misty Med Spa and Skin RX celebrates East Cobb opening

Founder Misty Banknell, PA-C of Misty Med Spa and Skin RX celebrates recent opening in the heart of East Cobb. With 25 years of experience, her mission is to take time with patients to ensure the care they deserve. In just a few months, the practice has become a sought-after resource. Misty and her team are dedicated, maintain high expectations and deliver proven, natural results. Visit mistymedspa.com or call 678-890-0577.

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/EastCobb

Glover Park Concert Series kicks off

Experience music under the stars at the 2023 Glover Park Concert Series, taking place the final Friday evening of each month from April to September. Bring picnic baskets, blankets or lawn chairs after 4 p.m. to secure your spot (no tarps or tents, please).

All concerts are free. If you desire a front-row seat, a limited number of tables can be reserved for a fee. Contact 770-794-5601 for more details on table reservations.

Marietta earns Tree City USA Award for 39th consecutive year

Marietta City Council recently recognized the Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department for receiving the Tree City USA award from the Georgia Forestry Commission for the 39th consecutive year, making Marietta the second oldest Tree City in the state. Tree City USA is one of the Arbor Day Foundation’s oldest programs, based on a shared vision for a greener, healthier America, and Marietta is an integral part of this vision.

Gifts for Guys

He’ll love these ideas for Father’s Day

Father’s Day is approaching, and it’s a great time to show the dad in your life some appreciation and love. But how? Get rid of the notion that men are “hard to buy for” and take a look at our list of ideas. From steak dinners to weekend getaways, we’ve covered every guy’s wish list.

Share a great meal.

They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach . . . so don’t let the guy in your life go hungry! Restaurants in East Cobb and beyond have plenty of mouth-watering options. Try Zama Mexican Cuisine for delicious fajitas and margaritas or the Capital Grille for an aged steak.

Book a romantic getaway. Nothing says “I love you” like a romantic weekend, so book a room at Oaks on the River, Georgia’s riverfront boutique resort, and relax in style. Feeling more ambitious? Hippo Lakes Luxury African Safari Lodge will offer you and your sweetie a life-changing adventure.

Drink craft beer.

IPAs. Lagers. Stouts. No matter what he prefers, he’ll find something to enjoy at Ironmonger Brewing & Distilling Check their website for up-to-the-moment selections, all with clever names like “Weisse So Slow” and “So Clutch.”

Surprise him with clean laundry.

Has life gotten busy lately? We hear you. Get his laundry fresh as a daisy and ready for a night out by calling tumble & dry, East Cobb’s modern laundry service. Just download the app, place the order to be picked up...and take a load off!

Leading by Example

THESE INDIVIDUALS PUT THEIR COMMUNITY FIRST

We’re fortunate to have a number of brilliant people in East Cobb and beyond — many of whom are known for giving back to the community in business, education, philanthropy and more. For our annual men’s issue, we spoke to two who envision a better life for our entire community. Now that’s what we call leadership!

Teamwork Prevails

Long before Coach Ricky Turner won an award for being named Region 7-AAAAA Athletic Director of the Year by Georgia Athletic Directors Association, he was honing his love for sports and for education. The University of Georgia graduate completed a physical education degree and embarked on a successful career now 33 years and counting, starting with Henderson High School in DeKalb County, then on to Salem High School and then St. Pius X High School, his alma mater.

Today, at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, Turner has served as head football coach and athletic director. He credits not only his parents, who instilled in him a can-do spirit, but countless mentors as well as his peer group of athletic directors for his recent success.  “I have had

Blessed Trinity’s Ricky Turner

Region 7-AAAAA Athletic Director of

the Year

many athletic directors that have helped me over the years and I am still learning from other athletic directors every day,” he remarks.

Turner’s personal coaching philosophy includes hard work, dedication and encouraging each team member to take ownership of his actions. He believes each athlete must be developed as a whole person — not just in the physical sense but academically and spiritually.  “Developing the character of an individual athlete transforms into a positive team culture,” he says.

This year’s prestigious award is the result of votes from regional athletic directors, and Turner humbly remarks that each of his fellow directors deserves to be recognized. Still, he’s proud to help make Blessed Trinity a household name.  “I think any award like this brings positive recognition to the school, which reflects on our student athletes, administrators, coaches and teachers,” he notes. He’s constantly inspired by his wife of 32 years, Lynn, as well as their five children — plus his two knowledgeable assistant athletic directors, Jan O’Donnell and Ryan O’Sullivan, and one highly organized administrative assistant, Noelle Barkes.

Turner's plans are to continue enriching the Blessed Trinity experience and give back to the Archdiocese of Atlanta.

“I went to elementary school and high school in the Archdiocese, and I've spent 23 years at Blessed Trinity,” he muses. “I would like to finish my career where I started it many years ago.”

“I think any award like this brings positive recognition to the school, which reflects on our student athletes, administrators, coaches and teachers.”

Investing in Inclusion

Business leader José Manuel Jimenez owns two AlphaGraphics Centers: Dunwoody-Sandy Springs and Tri-Cities-Atlanta Airport. He started the Sandy Springs location in the fall 2019, becoming the first brand-new Center in the AlphaGraphics network in more than eight years. As for the Tri-Cities location, he acquired an existing signage operation in East Point and rebranded it in late summer 2019, choosing to invest in a generally underserved portion of the region by bringing the first national print and signage brand south of I-20 in greater Atlanta.

Jimenez worked for a large corporate employer in the region for nearly 20 years before becoming a small business owner. “I knew this would be an exciting journey,” he says. “I wanted the challenge of growing an operation of my own and making an impact through our virtual communications products and services on the local communities around the Centers.”

Jimenez is engaged with the Atlanta community and is a passionate advocate for small businesses, equality, cultural inclusion and people affected by the HIV-AIDS epidemic. “I truly believe in giving back to the community in any way I can through volunteer work and sponsorships.” He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and previously served on the Boards of Jerusalem House and Positive Impact Health Centers. He also regularly volunteers for Leadership Atlanta, a program from which he graduated in 2018.

A graduate of the University of Southern California, Jimenez holds a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering. He is involved with the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber, the OUT Georgia Business Alliance and the Atlanta Airport Chamber. He has resided in the Atlanta metro since 2008.

“I truly believe in giving back to the community in any way I can through volunteer work and sponsorships.”

José Manuel Jimenez Owner, AlphaGraphics Centers

Father Figures

AN ODE TO MY TWO UNCLES

As a high school student, driving made me nervous. While classmates eagerly got in line at the DMV to score credentials for operating a vehicle, I was happily riding shotgun with my besties. Later, when I moved an hour away for college sans car, I had a new bestie to ride shotgun with: my uncle. Numerous weekends during my first semester — when I had no friends yet and was miserably homesick — Uncle Joe would faithfully pick me up, and we’d head toward our hometown, talking about everything from how classes were going to how quickly time passes – something I, being 18, had no clue about yet.

When people talk about father figures, they don’t always mean biological fathers — or at least, I don’t. I was raised in a household with women — my mom, grandmother and sister – but my two uncles, mom’s older brothers, were regular visitors throughout my childhood. When I look back at life lessons that stand out to me as an adult, much of that “dadlike advice” came from my uncles: “Work hard, choose a practical career,  save money.” “Life isn’t fair.” “Fear is OK as long as you don’t succumb to it.”

Ultimately, their words of wisdom and no-nonsense outlook have formed part of who I am. Once, at Christmas dinner, when Uncle Phil’s daughter, Gabrielle, was tossing around creative writing as a potential college major, I advised her to opt for something more practical, only to be gleefully called out by my sister Marie. “You sound like our UNCLES!” she crowed. To which I sheepishly agreed.

Who would any of us be without our father figures? This month, it’s worth pondering. I don’t always get to spend time with my uncles these days, but their philosophies have followed me from city to city, milestone to milestone. As adults, we develop our own ideas, but the valuable ones of our early years tend to stick. As I write this, it’s early May, peak spring, and the year is flying by. I think back to those conversations with my uncle, and I see how he was right.

“I don’t always get to spend time with my uncles these days, but their philosophies have followed me from city to city, milestone to milestone.”

ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Wesley Hobbs has treasured memories of going on safaris when he was just a preteen and teenager — but he never suspected, at that time, he would be hosting them one day. Having a heart for service, Hobbs began volunteering in high school for a ministry known as Teach Every Nation, a nonprofit with the mission to equip and train under-resourced pastors in more than 140 countries.

Soon enough, he found a distinct calling, hosting enthusiastic guests at a magical place known as the Hippo Lakes Luxury African Safari Lodge — which is owned by and financially supports the mission of Teach Every Nation — and helping others discover and appreciate the beauty of Africa he had known since boyhood. “Eventually, I started selling the Hippo Lakes safaris, and my role grew,” he says.

Today, Hobbs stays busy as the director of sales at Hippo Lakes Luxury African Safari Lodge and the director of development at Teach Every Nation. Situated on “a beautiful lake with resident hippos,” in the words of Hobbs, the Lodge is a surprisingly worry-free place to visit. Daily nonstop flights from Atlanta’s HartsfieldJackson International Airport land in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and no special visas are required to experience South Africa. “Each year, South Africa has more than 350,000 visitors from the United States who come for the safari and Cape Town experiences [except during the pandemic],” Hobbs notes.

And it’s no wonder that they do — a stay at the Hippo Lakes Lodge rivals the most luxurious global hotels. Situated in a prime area known as the Waterberg Biosphere, the Hippo Lakes site is about three and a half hours north of Johannesburg and about 4,000 feet above sea level, hence, there is no risk of malaria and no additional vaccinations are needed. “It is understood that probably due to the altitude, the

mosquitoes do not carry malaria in the Waterberg like they would in the lowveld,” Hobbs explains. “[The altitude] also means temperatures are quite moderate yearround. Unlike other parts of South Africa, humidity is low in the summer, and winter temperatures are moderate.”

After a restful night’s slumber in the accommodations of Hippo Lakes, travelers may choose from a variety of activities. Because the surrounding lakes are filled with catfish, bass and tilapia, fishing is a favorite pastime — but watch out for crocodiles who might eyeball your latest catch. Opportunities abound to meet and talk to the rangers, who are readily available to share friendly beers by the fire and chat about the natural world.

And, of course, the flagship experience of Hippo Lakes — the amazing glamping safaris — are a draw for every guest. From gourmet lunches and dinners to guided drives on the reserve in search of wildlife to add-on excursions such as Elephant Interactions, Helicopter Safaris and more, Hippo Lakes guests have the ultimate setup for adventure.

For Hobbs, sharing the joy of a safari and the beauty of his homeland is the reason every day at Hippo Lakes is rewarding. “Some of my favorite memories are going on safaris with my family,” he says. “For my honeymoon, I took my wife Sophia to Hippo Lakes and Cape Town. I love South Africa, and I love safaris.”

“Daily nonstop flights from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport land in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and no special visas are required to experience South Africa.”

IF YOU THINK WINEMAKERS ARE OBSESSIVE ABOUT CARE AND AGING, YOU HAVEN’T MET OUR BUTCHER.

We tend to our steaks with the passion of a winemaker, our master butcher monitors our steaks daily for 21 days in a temperature and humidity-controlled vault, then carves it by hand. Does our obsession pay off? You tell us.

94 PERIMETER CENTER WEST, DUNWOODY, GA 770 730 8447

thecapitalgrille.com

Your North Georgia Real Estate Team

This newly constructed home is a stunning example of mountain modern architecture. The home is situated on 3 acres, including 439 feet of Fightingtown Creek frontage. Natural light-filled, this home bodes high-end appliances and fixtures throughout on both the upper and lower levels. A standout feature of this property is the extensive use of steel beams throughout the home, adding a modern industrial aesthetic. Built by the highly-regarded builder Tommy Wosyluk, the combination of his expertise and the home’s outstanding design and finishes make this property truly unique and one-of-a-kind!

*Additional lot space available. Call for details.

KEYS TO FITNESS AND LONGEVITY

stress and improve sleep quality, both of which are important for overall health.

THESE 3 FACTORS WILL ENHANCE YOUR OVERALL HEALTH

Fitness and longevity are two of the most important goals for individuals who desire a healthy lifestyle. While fitness can help you stay active and maintain a healthy weight, longevity can help you live a long, fulfilling life. The 100 Year Lifestyle combines fitness and longevity principles to help you and your loved ones live at 100% for 100 years and beyond.

Various factors contribute to fitness and longevity, including chiropractic care, nutrition and posture. In this article, we will explore the importance of these factors and how they can benefit your overall health.

Chiropractic care is an essential part of maintaining a healthy body. By aligning the spine and keeping the nervous system healthy, every aspect of health improves. The neuromusculoskeletal effects are holistic and affect the entire body.

Chiropractic care can alleviate back pain, headaches and other types of acute, chronic and organic conditions. Regular adjustments can improve mobility and reduce risk of injury. Furthermore, chiropractic care can reduce

Nutrition is another key factor in achieving fitness and longevity. Eating a balanced, healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases — such as heart disease and diabetes — and improve overall well-being. A nutritious diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. It's important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks and highfat foods. Additionally, staying hydrated with plenty of water is essential for optimal health.

Posture is another critical component of fitness and longevity. Poor posture can lead to much more than back and neck pain, increased risk of injury and reduced mobility — it can lead to emotional issues as well. There’s even new research coming out that links forward posture to dementia.

Good posture improves breathing, reduces stress, and increases confidence. To maintain good posture, it's important to keep your spine aligned, keep your shoulders back, and avoid slouching. One of the most common side effects of the chiropractic care we provide is improved posture. Our patients love this.

To achieve fitness and longevity for a healthier life, it's important to incorporate chiropractic care, nutrition and good posture into your daily routine. Regular chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain, reduce stress and improve mobility. A balanced and healthy diet leads to a healthy weight, reduces risk of chronic diseases and improves well-being. Finally, good posture can reduce discomfort, increase mobility and improve confidence! By prioritizing these factors, you can improve your overall health and achieve fitness and longevity.

WELCOME HOME,BRYCE

The Voice champion sits down with East Cobb City Lifestyle to talk music, family and his bright future

Singing in front of a screaming TV audience of millions of viewers, Bryce Leatherwood croons, singing Keith Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes” like it was his own. The way he wears his cowboy hat and holds himself, commanding the stage, belies his 22 years.

His voice proved to be more than just compelling, winning the hearts (and votes) of Americans on the 22nd season of the NBC show, The Voice. The champion grew up in Woodstock and returns home to see his parents, Cliff and Hope Leatherwood, and grandparents nearby as often as possible.

“My family is my rock. Without my family, none of this would be worth it. As much as I’m doing this for myself, I’m doing this for everyone,” he says. And by “this,” he means competing and winning The Voice alongside his coach Blake Shelton — and embarking on a career as a recording artist and country music superstar. “I want to put Woodstock on the map and make my family proud, make my hometown proud.”

A tribute to his childhood wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging his faith. The years growing up in the church pews at Hickory Flat United Methodist Church are the roots of his foundation, along with his family. Bryce and his younger brother Lance grew up on their grandfather’s farm in Woodstock.

“Staking fence posts isn’t too fun, and it was tough being out there in the heat taking care of chores as kids. Lucky for us, we did a lot of

playing too,” he says. They careened around on four-wheelers and dirt bikes, jumped in local swimming holes and fished. “We did it right.”

Now, he spends his days playing in the studio, writing music with some of the most talented songwriters in Nashville. “Most of these songwriters have several number-one hits,” he says with admiration. “I’ve written more than 30 original songs since the first of the year in Nashville. We’ll release them very very soon,” he explains. Likely, a few singles will be released over a few weeks, introducing his golden vocals and good old country boy twang to the radio airwaves and music streaming public.

Grammy-nominated country artist Blake Shelton remembers those early days. “When I think of myself at that age, I was hoping someday I would just hear myself on the radio. At that time, all my heroes were on the radio, and if I could just hear myself on the radio, mission accomplished,” said Shelton in an interview with People magazine just after Bryce’s win.

Bryce says his “mission accomplished” would be recording a song that people can connect with. “I want to put a song out there that impacts people and changes their lives. I want to tell stories about the common people — of the South, of Georgia. I want my songs to reflect the stories of my life.”

Reflecting on the formative experience on the four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series, Bryce says his biggest takeaway is that he discovered who he is as an artist.

"I discovered who I am and the songs I want to create, the music I want to base my sound on and to honor the legends who came before me.” His plan is to be one of the greats, like his heroes Keith Whitley and Conway Twitty.

With his deep talent and performance prowess, Bryce found himself at home on the television stage. “The Voice band is full of incredibly talented musicians. It’s a tribute to them the way they translate the song to fit Bryce Leatherwood. They are to die for,” he says. Managing the nerves of playing with such accomplished musicians and in front of millions of viewers, he adds, gets easier over time.  “It’s like getting calluses on your hands from working, You still feel it, but soon it hurts a little less.”  Sounds like a country hit! And, the excitement feeds him. “It’s like mainlining adrenaline, the best feeling in the world.”

This Father’s Day, Bryce plans to be home spending time with his family. His brother Lance just graduated from Georgia Southern (Also Bryce’s alma mater) with a degree in finance. “He is a smart and hardworking kid and knows I am proud of him, even when I make fun of him or push him in different ways. It’s my job as his older brother.”

The day will be built around good food, good stories, smiles, hugs and handshakes. “The best feeling in the world is to make the people who saw me grow up proud. It’s the best feeling in my life," he says.

Bryce will perform in a City of Woodstock Welcome Home Celebration at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, August 25 at the Northside Hospital - Cherokee Amphitheater in Woodstock. Admission is free. Welcome home, Bryce!

For concert information, visit Woodstock.recdesk.com.  Follow Bryce’s bright career at BryceLeatherwood.com, or on Instagram @BryceLeatherwood.

A Room of His Own

Essentials in designing a man space

STEP 1: PLANNING IS EVERYTHING.

Before you get started building your masculine space, it is crucial to have a solid plan in place for the things that are important to see in the room. Once you have the basic want list in place, the rest will come naturally.

How much time do you usually spend at home? Will the space have multiple functions? Will the space be shared with children? Will you include a working space? All of these questions are vital to planning the space of your dreams.

You can do many things with a spare bedroom or an unfinished basement. If you’re creative and dedicated, the possibilities are endless. Just make sure that whatever you choose fits your needs and lifestyle.

STEP 2: CONSULT WITH A PROFESSIONAL.

It’s best to get a professional opinion before you get started on the actual building of your man space. A designer can help you create a unique and functional space for your needs. They’ll tell you if something is

even possible, which is especially important if you want some unusual features in the final space.

Even if you have an idea of what you want, getting expert advice throughout the process is still essential. A designer can take your ideas and wants to the next level of impact and make suggestions that you may not have dreamed of.  This way, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about proceeding with your design.

STEP 3: CREATE A JAW-DROPPING ENTRYWAY.

Make sure your entrance to the masculine space is different and has its own style. A secret door can be a fun way to make the space separate from the other spaces in the house. You can create a brick wall with dark atmosphere lighting if you are entering into a basement for the space. The separation of styles from everyday function to masculine luxury can be accomplished with paint colors.

If you have a separate entranceway, make sure it reflects the rest of your planned space. If not, look for interesting decorating pieces inside the actual room that can tie everything together.

STEP 4: CREATE A FLOW FOR THE ROOM.

There are typically designer rules with furniture layout and placement, yet there are no rules in a mancave. Plush velvet,

leather chairs, zebra rugs, a bar counter covered in gunmetal ...no rules apply if it is what brings him joy. The key to the selections is making sure you stay within means. It is easy to invest too much money in the home and not get a return on it when you go to sell. Getting the right TV, how many, where to position all of them if gaming or entertaining should all come into play.  All these concerns should be outlined in your planning stage for a better result.

STEP 5: THINK ABOUT TEMPERATURE, TECHNOLOGY AND THE TAP.

Music, lighting, surround-sound, and what’s on tap are all important. Setting up your man space with alcohol and servings is quite a key element in the masculine vibe of a space. You are creating a retreat at home. What do you stock and keep fresh in your man bar?

If your space is in a basement far from the main kitchen, then this selection and storage must be designed to function as well as entertain the senses.  If you consider placing a mirror behind a beverage area, it can create the illusion of looking larger. If you insert back wall lighting, it can also give you the imitation of a favorite bar you might like to visit. Cheers!

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In GoodTaste

Chef Michael Willis knows his way around the kitchen –  not just the one at The Capital Grille in Dunwoody, where he serves as executive chef, but any kitchen. For Willis, a love for preparing food began early in life, cooking alongside his mother and grandmother. “[They] taught me to have love and passion for cooking,” he says. “If you have hunger and a humbleness to be in the kitchen, it’s amazing what you can do.”

Willis’ career began in 1996, when he served as a dishwasher at LongHorn Steakhouse, another Darden establishment. He was soon offered a training role and helped LongHorn open a whopping 60 restaurants over the following decade. In 2007, Willis accepted a position as pantry chef at The Capital Grille in Buckhead — then worked his way up to sous chef. Today, he has opened 10 locations with The Capital Grille and is proud to be the Executive Chef Partner for the Dunwoody restaurant.

The menu at The Capital Grille has distinctive flair, with steaks that are dry-aged and prepared to each guest’s tastes. If you ask the chef his favorite dish, it coincides

with what guests also love: the bone-in ribeye with 15-year aged balsamic. “I love it because of the perfect flavor profile combination from the marbling and the sweetness and spice from the balsamic, olive oil glaze and porcini mushroom crust,” Willis says.

Always working on his art, Willis says simple yet flavor-boosting techniques have translated from his home kitchen to the restaurant's menu. “Most of my free time is spent with the smoker and the BBQ pit,” he remarks. “At The Capital Grille, sautéing is an excellent way to create simple yet elegant dishes.”

However, this chef does more than just prepare outstanding meals — he builds relationships. “I love teaching, training and motivating my culinary team members,” he shares. “ I look around the restaurant, and I see people who I have worked with for many years who have become my family.”

Visit

“I LOVE TEACHING, TRAINING AND MOTIVATING MY CULINARY TEAM MEMBERS.”

COCKTAILS FOR GRILLING SEASON

"We love using grilled fruit when mixing cocktails because the subtle char adds a background complexity that pairs great with any backyard cookout," says Haleigh Brown.

Shake and serve these unique summer sippers

She and her husband and partner Cody own Home Bar Network. They are all about bringing the culture and craft of professional bartending to the world in a fun and approachable way. They have a combined 20+ years of experience in the beverage industry and get so much joy from teaching people the art of imbibing. "We’ve traveled the world tasting some of the best cocktails at their origins. Hospitality is in our blood," they say.

For this issue, we asked Haleigh and Cody to dream up two cocktails for us to sip while grilling that steak for dad.

GRILLED PINEAPPLE SIDECAR

• 2 ounces Remy Martin VSOP cognac

• 1/2 ounces Amaro Angostura

• 1/2 ounces grilled pineapple gum syrup**

• 3/4 ounces fresh lemon juice

• 3 dashes Angostura bitters

• 1 egg white

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker. Shake with ice until well-chilled. Strain the cocktail out and dump the ice. Shake the cocktail again without ice, in a circular motion to whip the egg white. Pour into a chilled coupe and garnish with a grilled pineapple slice.

**Recipe for grilled pineapple gum syrup is at HomeBarNetwork.com.

GRILLED ORANGE PEEL OLD FASHIONED

• 2 ounces 100 proof bourbon or rye whiskey

• 1/2 ounce Rich turbinado syrup**

• 4 dashes Angostura bitters

• Garnish: grilled orange peel

In a mixing glass, lightly muddle grilled orange peel, syrup and bitters. Add whiskey and ice and stir slowly until well-chilled. Strain mixture over a large ice cube in a rocks glass and garnish with a fresh grilled orange peel.

**Rich Turbinado Syrup: Add 1 cup turbinado sugar and 1/2 cup filtered water to a pot over low heat and stir until sugar dissolves. Store in an air-tight container. Will last 3-4 weeks refrigerated.

IG: @homebarnetwork

Southern Pitmaster Celebrates Success

RODNEY SCOTT'S WHOLE HOG BBQ GAINS NATIONAL ACCLAIM

Pitmaster Rodney Scott has been cooking wholehog BBQ over wood coals since he was 11 years old. For the next 25 years, he worked with his family in their BBQ stop in Hemingway, South Carolina, until 2017 when he partnered with Nick Pihakis of Pihakis Restaurant Group to open Rodney Scott’s BBQ in the North Central neighborhood of Charleston.

In that same year, the restaurant was named one of the 50 Best New Restaurants by Bon Appetit Magazine. In 2018, Scott was awarded the James Beard Foundation’s award for Outstanding Chef Southeast.  Rodney Scott’s BBQ now has locations in Atlanta (near the old Braves stadium) and Birmingham, Alabama, in addition to the original Charleston store. A third Birmingham area location opened in Trussville in the spring of 2022. Rodney and the Pihakis Restaurant Group have partnered with country music star Eric Church and Ben Weprin of AJ Capital to bring Rodney Scott’s BBQ to Nashville. Eric’s epic Broadway entertainment complex, Chief’s, will open in 2023, and Rodney’s pit-cooked meats and sides will be part of the bar and music venue.

Rodney has been the subject of a full episode of the award-winning Netflix Chef’s Table series and worked as a judge on two seasons of Food Network’s BBQ Brawl with chef hosts Bobby Flay and Michael Symon. His cookbook, Rodney Scott’s World of BBQ , published by Clarkson Potter, was released in the spring of 2021 to great fanfare, including a coveted spot in The New York Times Top 10 Cookbooks of the Year.

For more information, visit RodneyScottsBBQ.com.

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